Avalon Park Sun Wesley Chapel February 2021 Edition

KEEPING THE NEWS LOCAL.... AND THE COMMUNITY CONNECTED.

VOLUME 2 EDITION 2

FEBRUARY 2021

Valentine’s Day Activities in Wesley Chapel

LIVE

PAGE 2

LEARN February

virtual Event Calendar PAGE 4

With Valentine’s here.

Day just around the corner, there areForso Galentine’s Day Sip more information many fun activities toto access n’ Stroll on how and register for these partake in with your The Shops at Wirevirtual events, visit pascolibraries.org or family or significant grass is hosting a specall 813-788-6375. others. Check out this cial Galentine’s Day CHILDREN list of events hapSipby:n’ Stroll on FebruEvents brought to you New River Library pening in the Wesley ary 34043 State Road 54 13th from 2-5 pm.

Wesley Chapel TWEENS Chapel/Tampa area Bring your girlfriends 813-788-6375 pascolibraries.org during this season of for some wine tasting, love and friendship. music, store specials, PAGE 7 Follow us on social media: Facebook: New and River more! You can Public Library Pinot’s PaletteInstagram: pascolibraries RSVP for Galentine’s TEENS Twitter: @PascoLibraries First up, don’t miss Day at The Shops at the opportunity to Wiregrass here. create beautiful art while enjoying drinks Valentine’s Day Parand upbeat music at ent and Me Night – Pinot’s Palette. Pinot’s Bricks and Minifigs is offering several This is a fun event Valentine’s Day sesfor the whole family! sions for both couples Bricks and Minifigs and singles during the is partnering with month of February.

Bricks4Kidsz to create PAGE 9 You can visit their a fun night of LEGO® events calendar and building and treats for parents and kids.

S A V ECOMMUNITY T H E D A T E : sign up to recreate your favorite painting The cost is $25 for one UPDATES BABYTIME & STORYTIMES

2/1, 2/15, 2/8, 2/22 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Storytime with Miss Cindy S. 2/2, 2/9, 2/16, 2/23 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Storytime with Ms. Bea 2/3, 2/10, 2/17, 2/24 | 10:00 AM - Storytime Online, Birth to Age 5 2/4, 2/11, 2/18, 2/25 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Babytime with Miss Cindy 2/4, 2/11, 2/18, 2/25 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Storytime with Miss Jenn 2/5, 2/12, 2/19, 2/26 | 10:00 AM - Storytime Shorts with Ms. Karen and Ms. Kerry 2/5, 2/12, 2/19, 2/26 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Baby Time with Miss Jennifer (ages birth-2) 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27 | 10:00 AM - Saturday Storytime with Regency Park Library

WORK

2/3, 2/10, 2/17, 2/24 | 4:30 PM - Mobile Makerspace at Crews Lake Park: Woodworking 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27 | All Day - Full STEAM Again 2/6 | 2:00 PM - Planet Lego: BUILD OFF 2/6 | 2:00 PM - Virtual Craft at Home: K-5

2/2, 2/9, 2/16, 2/23 | 10:00 AM - Best of Craft Tuesdays: Playlist 2/2 | 4:30 PM - Virtual Spinning Valentines Cards 2/3, 2/10, 2/17, 2/24 | 4:30 PM - Mobile Makerspace at Crews Lake Park: Woodworking 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27 | All Day - Full STEAM Again 2/8, 2/22 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Come Grow with Us Garden Craft 2/13| 2:00 PM - Virtual Craft at Home: Tween 2/16 | 4:30 PM - Virtual King Cake

PLAY

2/2, 2/9, 2/16, 2/23 | 10:00 AM - Best of Craft Tuesdays: Playlist 2/3 | 4:00 PM - Virtual Teen Advisory Board 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27 | All Day - Full STEAM Again 2/8, 2/22 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Come Grow with Us Garden Craft 2/8 | 6:00 PM - Diverse Books Club 2/9 | 6:30 PM - Virtual Poetry Discussion Group: Black History Love 2/10 | 4:00 PM - Fandom Trivia: Hogwarts 2/17 | 4:00 PM - Virtual Pal-entines Friendship Bracelets 2/20 | 2:00 PM - Virtual Craft at Home: Teen 2/24 | 4:00 PM - Virtual Game Zone

MARCH

12

-

ADULTS

2/1, 2/15 | 10:00 AM - Re-grow with Us 2/2, 2/4, 2/9, 2/11, 2/16, 2/18, 2/23, 2/25 | 8:30 AM - English for Speakers of Other Languages 2/2, 2/9, 2/16, 2/23 | 10:00 AM - Best of Craft Tuesdays: Playlist 2/2, 2/9, 2/16, 2/23 | 12:30 PM - Virtual Yarn for More 2/2 | 6:00 PM - Online Book Club 2/3, 2/13, 2/18, 2/25 | 10:00 AM - Virtual: Medicare 101 with Shine via Zoom 2/3, 2/25| 12:00 PM - Medicare Part C Seminar with Shine via Zoom 2/3, 2/17 | 2:00 PM - Be Jeweled Online Jewelry Making 2/4 | 10:30 AM - How to Hoopla-Live!

2/4, 2/11, 2/18, 2/18 | 6:00 PM - Virtual-Yarn for a Cause 2/4, 2/8, 2/17, 2/22 | 6:30 PM - Taste of Dungeons&Dragons 2/5 | 10:00 AM - Foodie Feast: French Fries!

2/5, 2/12, 2/19, 2/26 | 2:00 PM - Black History Month on Kanopy 2/8, 2/22 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Come Grow with Us Garden Craft 2/8 | 6:00 PM - Diverse Books Club 2/9 | 5:00 PM - Virtual Mystery Book Club-Murder on the Serpentine 2/9 | 6:30 PM - Virtual Poetry Discussion Group: Black History Love 2/10 | 2:00 PM - Artsy Craftsy 2/10 | 2:00 PM - Tiara (and Jewelry!) Club Online 2/10 | 6:00 PM - Virtual Tai Chi 2/11 | 11:00 AM - Medicare Part C Seminar with Shine via Zoom 2/11 | 12:00 PM - Medicare Basics with Shine via Zoom 2/12, 12/26 | 10:00 AM - Virtual First Chapter 2/16 | 2:00 PM - Virtual Backyard Gardening With Jo Ann 2/16 | 6:00 PM - Virtual Mystery Book Club 2/17 | 10:00 AM - Medicare Part C Seminar with Shine via Zoom 2/17 | 12:00 PM - Medicare Preventative Services Seminar with Shine via Zoom 2/18 | 10:00 AM - Connect with Kanopy-Live!

2/18 | 10:00 AM - Virtual: Medicare Part D with SHINE via Zoom 2/18 | 6:00 PM - Virtual Yoga for Stress Relief 2/19 | 10:00 AM - Foodie Feast-Banana Bacon 2/23 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Chair Yoga 2/23 | 12:30 PM - Medicare Basics with Shine via Zoom 2/23 | 5:00 PM - Zoom Reads 4th Tuesday Book Club 2/24 | 2:00 PM - Tiara Club Online 2/25 | 8:00 PM - Virtual Book Club: Confessions of Frannie Langton 2/27 | 2:00 PM - Craft at Home: Adult

A BUG'S LIFE

set of parents plus one child and $10 for each additional child.

Email jfontana@bricks4kidz.com to reserve your spot today!

Highland Axe Throwing Highland Axe Throwing is hosting a fun Valentine’s Day weekend from February 12 – 14. With regular axe throwing, special boards, games, and a chance to win a FREE domestic beverage or treat. Learn more about their Valentine’s Day weekend here.

Couples Cake Decorating Class – SKC Cakes SKC cakes is hosting a romantic cake decorating event for

couples on Valentine’s Day at the Hyatt Place Tampa. Wine and snacks will be available. To sign up for one of the three classes offered visit them here.

Whether you decide to stay in for a romantic homemade dinner or go out for a night of fun, we hope you have a lovely Valentine’s Day holiday with your loved ones.

Visit us at www.avalonparkwesleychapel. com to stay up-to-date on all our upcoming community events!

LIVE ORLANDO

Coffee Hour with BEAT Spring and owned by an Arab “Sheik.” The Altman Ranch was at the end of civilization, and my first thought was, not in 100 years will there be anything built out there. Knowing that Florida had the reputation of selling land to someone abroad when they could not find a local buyer, I thought we were swindled into buying some land with no value.

I LOVE AVALON PARK! When our Publisher Stephanie Lerret told me to write a column about why “I Love Avalon Park,” I was excited, no more Corona, economic crises, and more, a subject for a column which I am truly passionate about.

Well, it was not love at first sight...it was a long journey, an incredible journey, and it continues, and will today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.

The journey of AVALON PARK. And while this story starts with our Avalon Park Orlando project, we are excited that we have now added 3 additional Avalon Park communities that are part of the Avalon Park family.

In 1988, the Altman Family based in Orlando and New York was looking for a buyer for its 9,200-acre ranch in east Orlando.

A third of a century ago very few people were interested in buying a huge tract of land in the middle of nowhere in east Orlando, except an obscure Swiss-American group who bought the land after more than 1 year of negotiations.

I was designated by this group to go and check out this land that we purchased. When I arrived to what is now the town Avalon Park, I was shocked. I first came to see the land, which over the last couple of decades became the town of Avalon Park, I was shocked. At that time Waterford Lakes, then called Huckleberry was failing for a second time and what is today Stoneybrook was about 1,100 acres of land called Les

Well of course I could now write an entire book, and at some point, I will do that. That book will outline how a 9,200-acre tract of land became the town of Avalon Park and the Hal Scott Preserve. It will also tell the story of how Avalon Park derived its name literally meaning “the isle of fruit” from the Arthurian legend and how it is described as the place where King Arthur’s sword Excalibur was forged and later where the King was taken from being gravely wounded in

I was able to live, learn, work and play. A town where people of various racial, economic and cultural backgrounds could live together. In my native hometown Zurich, I can walk from my home to anything I need in my daily life, to work, to school, grocery stores, restaurants, etc.

That home-town culture was the “blueprint” for Avalon Park, only my vision was to make it better.

It is not uncommon for me to be away on business for several days a month abroad, in Europe, Australia or Asia. When I come back and arrive in Avalon Park, seeing the “Welcome Home” sign brings a sense of relief, pride, and love.

In 1999, Avalon Park Group moved to Founder’s Hall, the first building completed in Avalon Park, and if you would have told me that more than 20 years

I LOVE THAT YOU CAN HAVE PEACE OF MIND BY KNOWING YOU CAN LIVE YOUR WHOLE LIFE, SHOULD YOU WISH, IN ONE COMMUNITY. battle. This book could easily be well over 1,000 pages, so we will save that for another day.

While the full story would be a long adventure, it can be summed up like this: For about 20 years, a passionate team and I have had the honor to build a town from scratch. We all live, learn, work, and play here, and we all love to continue to shape our dream every day.

When I first moved full-time to Florida, a quarter-century ago, my wife Jill and I lived in a townhome in the suburbs of Fort Lauderdale. I got homesick, not because there were not any mountains like in Switzerland or because it was hot and humid.

These are things you prepare yourself before moving to Florida.

I missed being in a town, where

after, I would still spend most of my daily life in Avalon Park, I would be skeptical. But you see, I love Avalon Park, and do not want to ever leave.

I love that I can Zoom the world right from my office in the heart of Avalon Park, then step out and go for a workout, have a bite to eat, see children biking or walking home from school, all within a square mile.

chasing your first home. Then growing a family and moving up to buy a larger home. Then after the kids have gone maybe a move back down into a townhome or apartment. And all these options are within walking distance from the grocery store, restaurants, YMCA, parks, and events, including world-class fireworks.

I love the peace of mind knowing that you can live your whole life, should you wish, in one place. With an assisted living and memory care community and soon an independent living and 55+ option, you can literally move into your senior years in the very community you are familiar with, surrounded by family and supportive caregivers.

I love the schools, the teachers (most are also residents of Avalon Park), made them the best in Central Florida, because they, like me, love Avalon Park.

While Avalon Park Orlando is 99% complete, we are just starting our journey in Wesley Chapel, Daytona Beach and Tavares.

I love that every single day we all can build on the Avalon Park we call home. Together we can make it better, reinvent the town of Avalon Park, reinvent us with the opportunities in OUR town. I am excited about these next chapters in the Avalon Park journey.

I love Avalon Park.

I would love to hear why you love Avalon Park! Send me your favorite Avalon stories to Info@AvalonParkSun.com.

I love to be able to talk to somebody about the weather, sport, and life, in general, anytime in Avalon Park. I love the events, like past Saturday where the community came out to support the local businesses and enjoy the beautiful Florida weather.

I love that you can live in Avalon Park at all stages of life, from a college student in an apartment to finding a job and pur-

Community Picture from Avalon Park Orlando’s 20th Anniversary Celebration

LIVE (Cont.)

February Update from Pasco County Commission Chairman Mike Moore I hope you all had a great start to the new year in January! I greatly appreciate the opportunity to give the Avalon Park Sun these monthly updates from Pasco County.

Please make sure to continue following the guidelines from our health experts to fight the spread of COVID-19: wear a face covering when you cannot distance from others, wash your hands regularly, and avoid large groups.

magnet for biotech and life sciences enterprises and innovation. The work they will do right here in Pasco County will be transformational for our community economically while saving lives of people from around the world. Phase one of the project will include 128,000 square feet of space.

legislative delegation held a meeting in January. I’d like to congratulate State Representative Randy Maggard for being elected Chairman and State Senator Danny Burgess for being elected Vice-Chairman of the delegation. The 2021 state legislative session begins in March and I look forward to working with all six legislators that represent Pasco County to benefit our citizens!

meets twice a month.

For all the latest information, please make sure to check out Pasco County’s website at MyPasco.net.

Remember, we will continue to get through this by working together!

In January, Pasco County About: Commissioner Mike received our results from Moore represents District 2 the 2020 National Citizen on the Pasco County ComSurvey. 74 percent of reAre you interested in mission. He lives in Wesley spondents said there is a watching County ComChapel with his wife and three Construction has begun positive quality of life in mission meetings? You can children. on the new Overpass Road Pasco County, up twelve watch live and archived interchange at Interstate 75. percent since 2009! Counmeetings on the Pasco Pasco County is paying for ty Commission District County Government chanthe new flyover diamond 2, which I proudly reprenel on YouTube. The Couninterchange and it will be sent and includes Avalon ty Commission normally built by the Florida Depart- Park, had the highest ment of Transportation. overall confidence This will significantly ben- in Pasco County Avalon Park Wesley Chapel efit Avalon Park Wesley government. I will Cheryl Gonzalez (813) 230 5217 Chapel by relieving traffic continue working Aric Claytor (321) 746-7839 off the interchange at Exit hard to make sure 279 (State Road 54). On Pasco County is the AvexHomes.com Quick Move-in Homes February 8th, the section premier place for our 32655 Harmony Oaks Dr. of Overpass Road becitizens to live, work $314,549 Wesley Chapel, FL 33545 tween Old Pasco Road and and play!

Model: Arden • Lot 11 / 28 3 Bedroom • 2.5 Bathrooms • 2 Story READY: APRIL 1,995 Sq. Ft. • 2 Car Garage Boyette Road will close for 42" White Cabinets, Granite in Kitchen & Baths, Vinyl Plank flooring approximately one year for In past columns, throughout first floor, Stainless Steel Appliances, Covered Lanai construction. There will be I have mentioned 5084 Little Stream Lane $317,564 plenty of signage for demany Pasco CARES Wesley Chapel, FL 33545 Model: Clayton II • Lot 13 / 43 tours in the area. The Over- Act programs to 3 Bedroom • 2.5 Bathrooms • 2 Story READY: MAY 2019 Sq. Ft. • 2 Car Garage pass Road interchange is help those who suf1st Floor Master Bedroom! 42" Cabinets, Granite in Kitchen & Baths, expected to open sometime fered financially Stainless Steel Appliances, Covered Lanai, Garden Tub in Master Bath in 2023. This is in addition from COVID-19 with 4833 Autumn Ridge Drive to the new Diverging Diamortgage, rent and $320,490 Wesley Chapel, FL 33545 mond Interchange under utility relief. Through Model: Sienna • Lot 8 / 23 4 Bedroom • 2 Bathrooms • 1 Story READY: APRIL / MAY 2,001 Sq. Ft. • 2 Car Garage construction at State Road the end of 2020, Pas42" Cabinets, Granite in Kitchen & Baths, Stainless Steel Appliances, 56 and I-75. co County was able Covered Lanai to assist over 2,700 I’m thrilled to let you know households. I want to 4837 Autumn Ridge Drive $298,300 Wesley Chapel, FL 33545 Moffitt Cancer Center is thank hard working 3 Bedroom • 2 Bathrooms • 1 Story Model: Prescott • Lot 9 / 23 expanding to Pasco Coun- Pasco County staff 1,585 Sq. Ft. • 2 Car Garage READY: APRIL / MAY ty! On January 26th, the and our non-profit House includes 42" Cabinets, Granite in Kitchen & Baths, Stainless Steel Appliances, Covered Lanai Pasco County Commission partners for their approved a partnership dedication in prowith Moffitt Cancer Center cessing and verifying for a new research campus these applications. in Pasco County! The MofAvexHomes.com fitt Pasco campus will be a The Pasco County Prices, terms, promotions, plans, colors, specifications, materials, square footages, included features, available options and elevations are subject to change without notice. All dimensions and square footages are approximate. Prices shown refer to the base house and do not include any optional features, upgrades, or lot premiums. Square footages are approximate and may vary in construction and the method of calculation. Renderings are artist conceptions. Plans are the copyrighted property of Avex Homes. Reuse of plans is strictly prohibited. © 2020 Avex Homes, LLC 6/09/2020

LEARN ORLANDO

New River Elementary’s Reptile Review

Principal Update: Dear Reptile Families, We’ve had a great start to the 2021 year and are working to set realistic and achievable goals with our students. We have had several changes to teachers and learning environments as we welcomed many students from online back into the brick and mortar classrooms. While we have tried to keep consistency, it has been difficult with the current pandemic. Thank you for your continued support in our effort to ensure that our students are learning and thriving.

851 hours by 6th grade and on standardized tests, they will likely score better than 90% of their peers. Please look for our flyer coming home at the end of the week for our 2nd Virtual Scholastic Book Fair. Click on the following link to access the virtual book fair from January 25th- February 7th.

Thank you, Colleen Wilkinson Principal cgwilkin@pasco.k12.fl.us

PTA News: You can support the New River PTA and help fund activities and rewards for our students AND teachers simply by doing your normal shopping on Amazon with the Amazon Smile program.

Type smile.amazon.com into your browser and select New River Elementary PTA as your charity of choice and Amazon will donate Please continue to encourage 0.5% of your purchase to our your child to be reading at school at no additional cost home. Starting in kindergarto you! Smile is also available ten, if a student reads 20 min- through the Amazon app for utes a day at home, they will Apple and Android! hear 1.8 million words per year. They will have read for Virtual Book Fair:

We will be having a virtual book fair from January 25thFebruary 7th. We are having a school wide competition. If we reach $1000 in book fair sales Mrs. Basinger will randomly select a students name that purchased books from the book fair and they will get to throw a pie at her face.

If we reach $1500 in book fair sales Mrs. Wilkinson will kiss a reptile. If we reach $2000 in book fair sales we will have a school wide pajama day.

Follow this link to order on January 25th.

PE News: Happy 2021!! In January, we are concentrating on sportsmanship and teamwork.

We will also be stressing the importance of good nutrition.

We will be continuing with Reptile Run and are playing cooperative games. Brick and Mortar students are learning to do the long jump, hurdles and relay races. We hope that they will go out for track when they hit middle school!!

Field Day shirts are on sale now! Please buy a field day shirt to show your spirit on field day and to help support the PE Dept. www.pasco.k12. fl.us/acorn

Important Dates: February 3rd- Early Release Day February 15th- No School: President’s Day

Kindness Week: February 8th - 12th

ALL WEEK: Classroom Bingo & Kindness Scavenger Hunt Monday, Feb 8th: “Encorage your Friends to be Kind” (Wear a motivational shirt) Tuesday, Feb. 9th: “Be a Rainbow in someone else’s cloud” (Dress up in your grade level color:) Kindergarten - Red 1st Grade - Orange 2nd Grade - Yellow 3rd Grade - Green 4th Grade - Blue 5th Grade - Purple Wednesday, Feb. 10th: “Crazy for Kindness” (Crazy hair day or wear a hat) Thursday, Feb. 11th: “Look for the Good in Others” (Wear sunglasses) Friday, Feb. 12th: “Show your kind heart” (Wear pink or red)

Dismissal will be at 2 pm on these dates!

LEARN (Cont.)

February

virtual Event Calendar

BABYTIME & STORYTIMES

2/1, 2/15, 2/8, 2/22 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Storytime with Miss Cindy S. 2/2, 2/9, 2/16, 2/23 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Storytime with Ms. Bea 2/3, 2/10, 2/17, 2/24 | 10:00 AM - Storytime Online, Birth to Age 5 2/4, 2/11, 2/18, 2/25 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Babytime with Miss Cindy 2/4, 2/11, 2/18, 2/25 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Storytime with Miss Jenn 2/5, 2/12, 2/19, 2/26 | 10:00 AM - Storytime Shorts with Ms. Karen and Ms. Kerry 2/5, 2/12, 2/19, 2/26 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Baby Time with Miss Jennifer (ages birth-2) 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27 | 10:00 AM - Saturday Storytime with Regency Park Library

CHILDREN

2/3, 2/10, 2/17, 2/24 | 4:30 PM - Mobile Makerspace at Crews Lake Park: Woodworking 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27 | All Day - Full STEAM Again 2/6 | 2:00 PM - Planet Lego: BUILD OFF 2/6 | 2:00 PM - Virtual Craft at Home: K-5

TWEENS

2/2, 2/9, 2/16, 2/23 | 10:00 AM - Best of Craft Tuesdays: Playlist 2/2 | 4:30 PM - Virtual Spinning Valentines Cards 2/3, 2/10, 2/17, 2/24 | 4:30 PM - Mobile Makerspace at Crews Lake Park: Woodworking 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27 | All Day - Full STEAM Again 2/8, 2/22 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Come Grow with Us Garden Craft 2/13| 2:00 PM - Virtual Craft at Home: Tween 2/16 | 4:30 PM - Virtual King Cake

TEENS

2/2, 2/9, 2/16, 2/23 | 10:00 AM - Best of Craft Tuesdays: Playlist 2/3 | 4:00 PM - Virtual Teen Advisory Board 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27 | All Day - Full STEAM Again 2/8, 2/22 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Come Grow with Us Garden Craft 2/8 | 6:00 PM - Diverse Books Club 2/9 | 6:30 PM - Virtual Poetry Discussion Group: Black History Love 2/10 | 4:00 PM - Fandom Trivia: Hogwarts 2/17 | 4:00 PM - Virtual Pal-entines Friendship Bracelets 2/20 | 2:00 PM - Virtual Craft at Home: Teen 2/24 | 4:00 PM - Virtual Game Zone

ADULTS

2/1, 2/15 | 10:00 AM - Re-grow with Us 2/2, 2/4, 2/9, 2/11, 2/16, 2/18, 2/23, 2/25 | 8:30 AM - English for Speakers of Other Languages 2/2, 2/9, 2/16, 2/23 | 10:00 AM - Best of Craft Tuesdays: Playlist 2/2, 2/9, 2/16, 2/23 | 12:30 PM - Virtual Yarn for More 2/2 | 6:00 PM - Online Book Club 2/3, 2/13, 2/18, 2/25 | 10:00 AM - Virtual: Medicare 101 with Shine via Zoom 2/3, 2/25| 12:00 PM - Medicare Part C Seminar with Shine via Zoom 2/3, 2/17 | 2:00 PM - Be Jeweled Online Jewelry Making 2/4 | 10:30 AM - How to Hoopla-Live!

2/4, 2/11, 2/18, 2/18 | 6:00 PM - Virtual-Yarn for a Cause 2/4, 2/8, 2/17, 2/22 | 6:30 PM - Taste of Dungeons&Dragons 2/5 | 10:00 AM - Foodie Feast: French Fries!

2/5, 2/12, 2/19, 2/26 | 2:00 PM - Black History Month on Kanopy 2/8, 2/22 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Come Grow with Us Garden Craft 2/8 | 6:00 PM - Diverse Books Club 2/9 | 5:00 PM - Virtual Mystery Book Club-Murder on the Serpentine 2/9 | 6:30 PM - Virtual Poetry Discussion Group: Black History Love 2/10 | 2:00 PM - Artsy Craftsy 2/10 | 2:00 PM - Tiara (and Jewelry!) Club Online 2/10 | 6:00 PM - Virtual Tai Chi 2/11 | 11:00 AM - Medicare Part C Seminar with Shine via Zoom 2/11 | 12:00 PM - Medicare Basics with Shine via Zoom 2/12, 12/26 | 10:00 AM - Virtual First Chapter 2/16 | 2:00 PM - Virtual Backyard Gardening With Jo Ann 2/16 | 6:00 PM - Virtual Mystery Book Club 2/17 | 10:00 AM - Medicare Part C Seminar with Shine via Zoom 2/17 | 12:00 PM - Medicare Preventative Services Seminar with Shine via Zoom 2/18 | 10:00 AM - Connect with Kanopy-Live!

2/18 | 10:00 AM - Virtual: Medicare Part D with SHINE via Zoom 2/18 | 6:00 PM - Virtual Yoga for Stress Relief 2/19 | 10:00 AM - Foodie Feast-Banana Bacon 2/23 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Chair Yoga 2/23 | 12:30 PM - Medicare Basics with Shine via Zoom 2/23 | 5:00 PM - Zoom Reads 4th Tuesday Book Club 2/24 | 2:00 PM - Tiara Club Online 2/25 | 8:00 PM - Virtual Book Club: Confessions of Frannie Langton 2/27 | 2:00 PM - Craft at Home: Adult

For more information on how to access and register for these virtual events, visit pascolibraries.org or call 813-788-6375.

Events brought to you by: New River Library 34043 State Road 54 Wesley Chapel 813-788-6375 pascolibraries.org Follow us on social media: Facebook: New River Public Library Instagram: pascolibraries Twitter: @PascoLibraries

Check out our website for more exciting news! Get involved, even from home!

LEARN (Cont.)

HERE TO BUILD

A STRONGER

YOU

WHEN YOU’RE READY, WE’RE HERE. The Tampa YMCA has worked to help strengthen our communities for over 130 years. This year, we have continued to serve!

During this time of crisis, we were able to fill critical needs in our community, and now we are ready to provide a safe, healthy environment for you and your family to focus on your health and wellbeing.

WORKING TO KEEP YOU AND YOUR FAMILY SAFE AND HEALTHY: Enhanced cleaning and sanitizing procedures Fitness equipment staggered to ensure social distancing Reduced capacity for group fitness classes Masks required for members while in common areas and all staff while indoors Temperature checks done for staff and children entering Stay & Play

Making it easier for you to join the Y: SIGN UP FEE WAIVED through Sept. 30th!

TAMPA METROPOLITAN AREA YMCA | tampaymca.org

WORK ORLANDO

Ensurem to Bring Over 200 Jobs to Pasco County One of Tampa Bay’s fastest-growing companies is investing in half a million dollars to repurpose vacant retail space in Pasco County.

The Pasco Economic Development Council (Pasco EDC) is pleased to welcome Ensurem to the county. Ensurem is investing $500,000 in tenant improvements and office equipment to upgrade and convert 10,000 square feet of existing retail space off U.S. Highway 19 in Port Richey. At full capacity, the facility will be home to 200 employees with salaries exceeding 156 percent of the average county wage.

ing in the right direc- nomic growth,” says Dave Rich, CEO at tion.”

Ensurem. “We’re glad to offer them Ensurem is an ina location closer to surance broker and home and excited for technology providthe opportunity to er whose mission is onboard even more to help people who exceptional Pasco are in or approachtalent.” ing retirement optimize their healthcare spend by providing Ensurem was recentthem insurance solu- ly ranked number one by Tampa Bay tions that fit their needs. The company Business Journal Fast offers Medicare Ad- 50 for most growth between 2017-2019. vantage, Medicare Within these three Supplement and Medicare Part D pre- years, the company had an astonishscription plans, as ing 245,900 percent well as vision, dental, hospital indemni- growth. In addition, ty and final expense the Business Obinsurance. Alongside server listed them amongst Florida its force of nearly businesses as num100 licensed insurance agents available ber 271 on its Top 500 list, and numby phone, Ensurem ber five for revenue also offers the tools to easily run quotes, compare rates and, in some case, enroll into plans on Ensurem.com.

“I would like to welcome the Ensurem team to Pasco County and specifically west Pasco,” said Pasco County Commissioner Jack Mariano. “The county has numerous initiatives to help bolster the west-side of the county and a large economic development project like this “We’re proud to be shows we are mova part of Pasco’s eco-

growth between 2018-2019 for their 314 percent increase.

“Ensurem’s new location is a ‘win-win’ for west Pasco, the project helps repurpose long vacant retail space while bringing high-wage employment opportunity to residents in the area,” said Bill Cronin, President/ CEO, Pasco EDC. “The company is rapidly growing, and people are taking notice; we are thrilled they chose Pasco County for their third location and can’t wait to continue building our relationship with them.”

WORK (Cont.)

Moffitt Cancer Center Announces First Phase of 775-Acre Campus Project in Pasco County The Moffitt campus is estimated to support more than 14,500 jobs in the Tampa Bay region.

The Pasco Economic Development Council (Pasco EDC) and Pasco County are thrilled to welcome Moffitt Cancer Center (Moffitt) to the county.

Moffitt has announced their plans for an expansion campus in Pasco County. The expanded clinical and research facilities will accommodate growth in the Tampa Bay region of complementary third-party research, product manufacturing, clinical providers, and conferencing facilities. The campus will be a magnet for biotech and life sciences enterprises and innovation and will bring together new partners and collaborators.

The entire campus is estimated to support more than 14,500 additional jobs in the area.

“There is no question that Moffitt is a leader in research and delivery of life saving cancer care. This campus will serve as catalyst for the Life Sciences industry for not only the region, but the State of Florida,” said Bill Cronin, President/CEO, Pasco EDC. “The location on the Suncoast Parkway will serve as an anchor to the already robust corridor of Life Sciences cluster which has been rapidly developing over the last few years.”

The multi-year, multiphase project will include over 1.4 million square feet of research lab/office, light industrial/manufacturing, general office, and clinical building space within the 775-acre site

near the future intersection of Suncoast Parkway and the Ridge Road Extension which is currently under construction.

“We are truly thankful for the funding support from the Pasco County commissioners,” said Patrick Hwu, MD, President and CEO, Moffitt Cancer Cen-

ter. “Moffitt’s world-class expansion campus in Pasco County will allow us to treat more patients, conduct more groundbreaking research and develop innovative partnerships all in support of our mission to contribute to the prevention and cure of cancer.

We look forward to growing this partnership with Pasco County for years to come.”

Its more than 7,000 team members serve patients from every US state and more than 130 countries across the globe. Among other things, Moffitt is known for its revolutionary immunotherapy work “Moffitt will bring many that uses the body’s own benefits besides their finan- cells to fight cancer. It cial investment to Pasco operates an internationally County,” said Pasco Coun- recognized immunotherapy program and recently established a “first-of-itskind Contract Research Organization concentrating on accelerating immuno-oncology and cell therapy research in partnership with pharmaceutical and biotech companies.” Moffitt has previously drawn biotech companies to the Tampa area and this trend is expected to continue in the new Pasco location as private-sector firms desire to work in Moffitt‘s research facilities. in financial assistance to support the construction of infrastructure serving the first phase of development on the site, which is expected to be completed in five years.

ty Commission Chairman Ron Oakley. “This campus will be a talent magnet, provide treatment facilities, and create substantial economic impact for our county and the region; none of this would be possible without our Penny for Pasco Program.”

Moffitt is one of only 51 National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers, a In the project’s first phase, distinction that recognizes Moffitt will construct Moffitt’s scientific excela minimum of 128,000 lence, multidisciplinary resquare feet for corporate search and robust training business park uses for and education. They are which Pasco County Board the No. 11 cancer hospital of Commissioners and have been nationally have agreed to provide ranked by U.S. News & approximately $25 million World Report since 1999.

“Moffitt is the leading cancer research and treatment center. It is an honor to have them put their trust in Pasco County and work with us to bring their expansion campus to our community,” said Pasco County Commissioner Christina Fitzpatrick.

“This will not only be an economic asset, but it will create jobs and save lives.

Moffitt will be bringing the best of the best. In return this will provide a better quality of life for all of our residents.”

WORK (Cont.)

INTERNATIONAL UPDATE

Meet the Member Interview with Perseo Pharma

1. How did Perseo Pharma come about?

Perseo pharma is a spinoff of INOFEA AG, another company also located on The 5th Floor.

Both companies share the same technology, derived from FHNW in Muttenz, which consists in making enzymes more powerful for all sorts of biotechnology applications. Back in 2017, INOFEA decided to explore the possibility of using its proprietary technology specifically for medical applications.

Funds were raised and two years later, an initial proof of feasibility was reached, enabling the foundation of the spinoff. Perseo pharma is now a fully independent privately funded pharma start-up and is using the shared technology exclusively for the development of therapeutic applications.

2. Could you give us a short overview of Perseo Pharma?

Perseo pharma is a very early-stage start-up, we are turning 2 years old in March! We work in close partnership with the University of Applied Sciences Northwest Switzerland (FHNW) and more

tions.

4. Perseo Pharma is a company founded and based in Basel. What do you particularly appreciate about this region?

specifically with Prof. Dr. Patrick Shahgaldian, the main inventor of our core technology and Prof. Dr. Laura Suter-Dick. Our objective is to develop new best- and first-inclass enzyme therapeutics all the way to the clinics.

Enzymes can be used as drugs for oncology, gastrointestinal diseases, and rare diseases called Lysosomal Storage Diseases.

We are currently at the preclinical stage, where we work mostly at assessing the safety and efficacy of our compounds on human cells. We are a growing and enthusiastic team of currently three employees: Dr. med. Werner Enz, executive chairman, Dr. Emilie LaprĂŠvotte, Chief Development Officer, and Dr. Yves Dudal, Chief Technology Officer.

3. What makes Perseo Pharma future-oriented?

Being a drug development company makes Perseo pharma 100% future-oriented. Developing drugs takes time, easily up to 10 years, and therefore we know that our product will come to the market only in the future. We constantly have to think about what the market will be like at this time and what partner could help us get there successfully. Also, innovation is in our genes, we work on intellectual property and generate new patents, which will protect us for the next 20 years. Therefore, we anticipate the future to make sure we make the most out of these innova-

Basel is one of the very few pharma hubs in the world and one of the top ones in Europe. It is also a great place for start-ups with all proper infrastructures available: incubators, accelerators, lab and office space, business angels, venture capitals, expertise, etc. It is also a highly international place, at the heart of Europe and at the border of two other European countries. All this makes Basel a perfect location for a pharma start-up like Perseo pharma. It enables us to find the required funds for our development, to find the adequate premises for our activities at different stages of development, and to attract the proper talents needed for our development.

The 5th Floor is an international collaborative pro-work space where members are able to enjoy international collaboration benefits in our 5th Floor locations and connections throughout the world. We would like to introduce you to Switzerland member, Perseo Pharma.

WORK (Cont.)

Pasco County Government Named a 2021 Top Workplace

Pasco County Government has earned a 2021 Top Workplaces USA award! Energage announced Pasco County as one of the winning organizations during a virtual event the evening of January 27, 2021.

Top Workplaces USA offers national recognition for large organizations with more than 150 employees. More than 1,100 organizations from across the country participated in the Top Workplaces USA survey. Winners are chosen based solely on “We are thrilled to be rec- employee feedback, gathognized as one of the Top ered through an Energage Workplaces in the counemployee engagement try,” said Pasco County survey. Results are calcuAdministrator Dan Biles. lated by comparing the “Pasco County Governsurvey’s research-based ment is committed to fostatements, including 15 cusing on our people and Culture Drivers that are the customers we serve, proven to predict high and this recognition solid- performance against inifies our growing reputa- dustry benchmarks. tion as a progressive and innovative high-perform- “During this very chaling organization.” lenging time, Top Work-

places has proven to be a beacon of light for organizations, as well as a sign of resiliency and strong business performance,” said Energage CEO Eric Rubino. “When you give your employees a voice, you come together to navigate challenges and shape your path forward.

Top Workplaces draw on real-time insights into what works best for their organization, so they can make informed decisions that have a positive impact on their people and their business.”

This is the inaugural year for Energage’s Top Workplaces USA, built on the program’s 14-year histo-

ry surveying more than 20 million employees across 54 markets for the regional Top Workplaces awards.

Pasco County Government employs more than 2,800 employees, representing 57 lines of business, serving more than 550,000 customers and covering 740 square miles of territory.

Learn more about Pasco County Government at MyPasco.net.

PLAY ORLANDO

AVALON PARK WESLEY CHAPEL PRESENTS

FEATURING

LADY AND THE TRAMP! FRIDAY, FEB 12, 2021 MOVIE STARTS AT 7PM 5060 RIVER GLEN BLVD. AVALONPARKWESLEYCHAPEL.COM 407-658-6565 While our event is outside, all guest are encouraged to follow CDC guidelines as it pertains to social distancing and face masks. If you do not feel well or are uncomfortable being at a public event, please do not attend.

Avalon Park Wesley Chapel is conveniently located 3.5 miles East of I-75 on SR 54, Wesley Chapel, FL 33543

SAVE THE DATE: MARCH

APRIL

12

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A BUG'S LIFE

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PLAY (Cont.)

Kids ages 5 - 12 will enjoy: STEM, arts & crafts, sports, and more!

2020 - 2021 DATES: Oct. 19, Nov. 23 - 25, Dec. 21 - 23 and Dec. 28 - 30, Jan. 4 - 5, Jan. 18, Feb. 15, Mar. 15 - Mar. 19, Mar. 22, and Apr. 2 TIME: 7am-6pm COST: $25 per day for YMCA members, 35 per day for non-members LOCATION:

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To SUBMIT your local LIVE news.... to ADVERTISE, to REGISTER or to RECEIVE the Avalon Park Sun email: Info@AvalonParkSun.com

Coming together to create a healthy community

An East Orlando Health Alliance

ORLANDO

Someone is accidentally injured every second That’s why our ER experts stand ready 24/7 to care for you.

Unexpected moments happen. When they do, you can trust our ER experts are nearby to safely care for you. And, we’ve made it easy to schedule an emergency room visit online so you can wait in the comfort of home and arrive at a time convenient for you.

Schedule online at GetInQuickER.com.

In case of a life-threatening emergency, call 911

LIVE WELL (Cont.)

Important Information Regarding COVID-19 Vaccination Appointments

The Florida Department of Health in Pasco County (DOH-Pasco) will continue using its current vaccination enrollment process with CDR Maguire instead of opting into the new statewide registration system at this time. Local seniors who have enrolled with the local registration system do not need to enroll in the new state system.

for the week of Feb. 1. At this time, the demand is greater than the supply, so appointments will go very quickly. Please be prepared and be patient.

The State of Florida released information about a registration system at myvaccine.fl.gov.

This website is independent of signups available this coming Sunday for Pasco County vaccination appointments.

Seniors 65 and older who have registered on the CDR Maguire Registering at that site DOES Patient Portal can book available NOT REPLACE signing up at appointments at patientportalfl. the Patient Portal. The My Vaccom for COVID-19 vaccines be- cine website is independent of ginning at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday how DOH-Pasco will provide to get a vaccination appointment vaccine appointments at 2:00

FR

E EE OPEVEN COM N TO T MU

PROVIDING RESOURCES FOR ACTIVE OLDER ADULT HEALTHY LIVING Senior Health Fair

Join us for this socially distanced event! Must reserve time slot to limit number of participants at any given time by calling (813) 780-9622.

Wednesday, February 24th | 12-3pm

TH NIT E Y!

p.m. on Sunday.

If you also wish to sign up at the state’s My Vaccine system, it’s optional, but will not get you an appointment in Pasco County because the myvaccine.fl.gov system is not yet in use in here in Pasco County.

REMINDER: To get a vaccination appointment for the week of Feb. 1, you must use the CDR Maguire Patient Portal at patientportalfl.com. Appointments will “go live” for DOH-Pasco at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 31.

For additional information on DOH-Pasco’s vaccination operations, please visit Pasco.FloridaHealth.gov.

DOH-Pasco requests, before contacting the health department directly, please visit our COVID-19 Vaccination Distribution webpage and for frequently asked questions, visit our COVID-19 Vaccination FAQs webpage.

About the Florida Department of Health The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @HealthyPasco. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.

EAST PASCO FAMILY YMCA 37301 Chapel Hill Lp., Zephyrhills, FL 33542 | P 813 780 9622 tampaymca.org

COMMUNITY CORNER ORLANDO

02

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Take a Little Time Each Day to Complete an Exercise! By the End of the Month You Will be Feeling Great!

Sitting on a secured desk or chair, position your hands shoulder-width apart behind you. Slide your body off of your desk or chair with your legs extended to a 90-degree angle. Keeping a slight bend in your elbow, lower your body down and then back up repeatedly for the desired number of repetitions.

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M1-Give a compliment!

M2-Print a positive quote!

M3-Do something for YOU! M4-Drink more water today!

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AMERICAN HEART MONTH

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