KEEPING THE NEWS LOCAL.... AND THE COMMUNITY CONNECTED.
VOLUME 1 EDITION 5
SEPTEMBER 2020
LIVE
PAGE 2
LEARN
PAGE 4
WORK
PAGE 9
PLAY
PAGE 11
COMMUNITY UPDATES
East Pasco Fine Arts Gallery Has Gone Virtual
Each month the East Pasco Fine Arts Gallery, a partnership between Avalon Park Wesley Chapel and the Pasco Fine Arts Council, bring local artists into the community to showcase their work. For the past year we have enjoyed meeting different local artists as they introduce us to their collection in the monthly “Meet the Artist” receptions. While we are attempting to maintain social distancing we have transitioned to virtual receptions for the time being.
check out Cindi Vinci’s Virtual Tour video.
Our next art workshop is “Textures and Mixed Media” with Patricia Garrow and will be held at the Avalon Park Amenity Center on September 21st (9:30 – 3:30pm). To sign up, visit pascoarts. org. and register by September 14th to reserve your spot.
Italian family, all on my mother’s side. My dad was an artist and while he taught me quite a bit, he never understood the artist in me. Skipping through life, I have been waiting for the day I could express myself. Within all this, I studied Interior/Architectural Design at Parson’s, NYC, NY, and Studio Art and Art History at SUNY,
This month our featured artist is Cindi Sherman-Vinci! During a virtual tour of her “Something Different” exhibit at the East Pasco Fine Arts Gallery, Cindi shares the inspiration behind her artwork and walks us through each of her creations. Cindi’s gallery reflects her passion for abstract art and every piece she creates with the purpose of capturing life and depicting emotion in a way that each individual viewer can connect to on a personal level. Cindi’s gallery will next be on display at the Pasco Fine Arts Center in New Port Richey, where you will be able to enjoy it in person. For a more detailed walk-through of the exhibit with the artist herself, do not forget to
Meet Cindi Sherman-Vinci: Do artists create reality as they see it, or does reality show the artist what to create? I have been fascinated with abstract art since I was six years old. I was born in 1953 and I come from a stereotypical
Purchase, NY. As far back as I can remember, I have always interpreted the world in an abstract manner: I knew nothing I saw and heard was all there was to the story. For me, the world is a jumble of thoughts and ideas that run amok. My art reflects the idea of life and all its jumbled aspects.
The titles I choose for my works are as important to me as the work itself. I want the combination to provoke the viewers to think about their own lives and opinions; I want them to interpret what they see in their own way. And I want them to see that the best way to live life is with an open mind. My work reflects what I feel about life and all the changes that have occurred in my life. As a young girl I have sketched many pieces, not really knowing what I was trying to express. As I learned more about life, I realized I had a lot to say. All my pieces tell my story; I started that story when I was six years old. The abstract images I present, all have names inspiring you to look at the art and figure out why it has that name. You might realize that quite a bit of it is political; all interconnected to each other; each telling a story. Telling your story... For more information on the East Pasco Fine Arts Gallery visit us online.
LIVE
Coffee Hour with BEAT One of my favorite parts of building towns, is being able to visit the local businesses and interacting with the residents. Just the other day I was at Nature’s Fuel in Downtown Avalon Park Orlando and the young lady working at the Avalon Park store told me that she was born in Avalon Park! To me the groundbreaking of Avalon Park Orlando in 1998 feels like it was just yesterday. The young lady continued to tell me that her family has lived all her life in Avalon Park. She has lived, learned, worked and played, and continues to do so for the past 2 decades. Another recent interaction electronically when we received an e-mail from a young couple living in Avalon Park. It was a special note where the couple told us that they met while at Avalon Middle School as students and now, a decade later, they not only live in Avalon Park, but both teach in Avalon Park schools. Their parents moved to Avalon Park 20 years ago, still live in Avalon Park and now, the newly married have decided as well to live in Avalon Park. These stories are just a couple examples where there are families who have 3 generations living in Avalon Park: Grandparents, Parents and Kids. My passion for creating towns where generations can live together stemmed from my story, growing up in Switzerland. My grandparents, who have passed away, owned a farm in eastern Switzerland. One of my dad’s brothers took
over the farm, and now one of his sons is farming there. My parents, who are now in their 80’s are still living at the same home I grew up in. Multiple generations all living close by. There is power in a young child being able to hear about the life lessons a senior has to offer. There is joy in seeing a senior delighting in the laughter of a grandchild or youthful neighbor. While there are “feel good” benefits to intergenerational communities, there are also sustainability and longevity for those communities.
create sustainable “Live, Learn, Work & Play” communities, in order to reach that vision, we set goals that allow homeowners to grow their families and establish roots.
I believe a healthy community is where all generations can live and interact together. When planning Avalon Park we wanted to ensure that all of your basic needs could be met in your own neighborhood. You could be born in Avalon Park, go to pre-school, elementary school, middle school, high school, Vocational Tech Center in Avalon During our first homeowner Park or College up the street, association meeting in 1999 I find a home to live in any size was asked to describe in my and price, rent or own. And own words the vision of Avalon also, that you could find a job in Park. At a time when Avalon Avalon Park, shop, dine, join a Park had 50 homes, Alafaya Church, a social service club or
I BELIEVE A HEALTHY COMMUNITY IS WHERE ALL GENERATIONS CAN LIVE AND INTERACT TOGETHER. Trail was a 2 lane road from Waterford Lakes, Avalon Park Boulevard ended at Founder’s Square and there was no Innovation Way, my answer was simple: Live, Learn, Work and Play. I told the group of first homeowners that the goal was to be in a position as soon as possible where you could satisfy all your needs in Avalon Park without ever having to leave. Now, 20 years later, I know that we have achieved that goal in Avalon Park Orlando, as there have been times when somebody stops me and tells me they have not left Avalon Park for 3 months. Being able to meet the needs of the residents in Avalon Park Orlando was a goal that we sought out to meet and were able to make it come true. The same vision holds true for our communities in Wesley Chapel, Tavares and Daytona Beach. While our vision remains to
any other community organization. And that you could also establish sense of place for your family through all of these, but also by building traditions at the holiday festivals and creating life-long friendships at neighborhood get-togethers. When you build roots in a community, you care, and you are involved. I love our many quadruple stakeholders, they live in Avalon Park, as real estate owners or tenants, have children in an AP school, work or own a business in AP, and spend time in AP, dining, shopping and attending cultural events. People are looking for a sense of belonging and safety. When your entire family, for several generations lives here, you belong. When it is not just your home, but as well your children’s school, your job or business, your favorite restaurant or store, all within walk-
ing or biking distance you are much more involved. You pay more attention and if something is not right you get involved to find a solution. You have a vested interest to constantly work on the best community in central Florida. It was always my dream, that grandparents, parents, and children could live together or at least be within walking distance from each other. In a true intergenerational community Grandpa may pick up a grandkid at school, while their parents are at work, and spend some quality time with their grandkids. Now that fortunately kids can go back into school, we want to make sure all ages stay connected. For example, at Encore our Assisted Living Community in Avalon Park, school children interact with the residents. Kids from all ages, starting at pre-K are able to spend time with seniors, some that are well over 90 years old. These relationships are just a part of the realization of a healthy community, where you can, Live, Learn, Work and Play. The ultimate sustainable community is where all generations can live in harmony. Have a questions for Beat or do you have something you want to see in Coffee Hour with Beat? E-mail us at Info@AvalonParkSun.com.
To SUBMIT your local LIVE news.... to ADVERTISE, to REGISTER or to RECEIVE the Avalon Park Sun email: Info@AvalonParkSun.com
LIVE (Cont.)
Rebates Available to Pasco County Residents, Businesses and Contractors Pasco County Utilities (PCU) is proud to partner with Tampa Bay Water, the Southwest Florida Water Management District and other local governments in an effort aimed at saving 11 million gallons of water a day by 2030 through the Tampa Bay Water Wise Program. The diverse program offers 11 rebates for residential and commercial customers who purchase or implement pre-approved, qualifying water-saving devices and measures.
imum allotment of $75 for installing high-efficiency toilets and urinals, to a maximum allotment of $1,000 for water-saving cooling towers. • Restauranteur & Food Service Professional Rebates: Options ranging from a maximum allotment of $50 to a maximum allotment of $400 for water-efficient dishwashers and spray valves.
Qualification details and steps to become pre-approved “As a community, we rely on shared water sources every are available at TampaBayWaterWise.org. Please note day,” said PCU Customer Service Administrator Sanrebates are based on the actual cost of the new fixture dra Anderson. “PCU is steadfast in our commitment to purchased, not the maximum allotments listed above. conserve this precious resource for our region and generations to come.” Visit bit.ly/SaveH2OPasco for everyday water-saving options inside your home and out. Rebates are available for plumbing fixtures, irrigation devices, food service equipment and more in the following categories: • Residential Rebates: Options ranging from a maximum allotment of $100 for toilet replacements to a maximum allotment of $250 for smart irrigation controllers. • Commercial Rebates: Options ranging from a max-
To SUBMIT your local LIVE news.... to ADVERTISE, to REGISTER or to RECEIVE the Avalon Park Sun email: Info@AvalonParkSun.com
LIVE (Cont.)
Benefits of Intergenerational Programs People who are a part of the “sandwich generation” can easily find themselves “sandwiched” between providing care to both aging parents and young children. Though there is endless love for both of them, constantly caring for both can be exhausting and it can take a toll on the caregiver. At Encore, we believe that putting the elderly with the young children through a variety of programs can help lessen some of the needs that each group has. Children are able to provide the social interaction that is so important for seniors, while seniors are able to provide the love that kids need. Our community encourages interaction between our seniors and local children though our Songbird music program, our partnership with The Rep Theater, and by inviting children from local schools, girl scouts, and day cares to interact with our seniors.
Here are some of the benefits of our intergenerational programs: Children help elders keep loneliness at bay. Senior loneliness is a rampant issue in many retirement communities that can lead to a range of health problems and can increase rates of death. While many assisted living communities create opportunities for seniors to maintain a social life, fighting off loneliness is a difficult battle. Being able to spend time with kids has proven to be an effective solution. Many seniors that have a difficult time connecting with their peers have no problem talking with kids. The excitement and creativity that kids bring to their time with our residents is truly invaluable. Having children around encourages an active lifestyle The aches, pains, and disability that often comes with aging can
make it difficult to stay active. While it may be easier to be sedentary than to get out and be around people, it is important for seniors to stay as active as possible. Kids move around and exude energy that is effective at getting seniors to join in. They are able to get residents chatting, playing, and enjoying life in a way that only a kid could do. It helps fight ageism. Our culture worships youth and can sometimes hold prejudices against the elderly. Even though most of us have the best intentions, the way the culture as a whole sees seniors can sometimes seep into our thinking. The best way to combat this is to spend time around seniors enough to see them as distinct individuals with a wealth of knowledge and experiences.
see seniors in a respectful and compassionate way throughout their entire life. Choosing the right assisted living community for your loved one can seem exhausting, but it pays dividends when it comes to their happiness and your peace of mind. Schedule a tour of Encore at Avalon Park, and see for yourself why we’re the premier senior living solution in the area. Call us today at 407270-7500 to schedule a tour, or for any questions you may need answered. ALF #12618
Kids who are able to do that when they are still developing their larger understanding of the world are more likely to
To SUBMIT your local LIVE news.... to ADVERTISE, to REGISTER or to RECEIVE the Avalon Park Sun email: Info@AvalonParkSun.com
LIVE (Cont.)
Avalon Park Wesley Chapel Wesley Chapel, FL Cheryl Gonzalez • (813) 230-5217 GrandeCherylG@gmail.com
AvexHomes.com
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5154 Sea Mist Ln. Wesley Chapel, FL 33545 3 Bedroom • 2.5 Bathrooms • 2 Story 1,820 Sq. Ft. • 2 Car Garage
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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
AvexHomes.com
To SUBMIT your local LIVE news.... to ADVERTISE, to REGISTER or to RECEIVE the Avalon Park Sun email: Info@AvalonParkSun.com
LIVE (Cont.)
September Update from Pasco County Commission Chairman Mike Moore August was an important month for Pasco County, and I appreciate the opportunity to update you on everything that is happening in our community. I hope you stay safe and I urge you to join me in continuing to follow the guidelines from Department of Health to fight the spread of COVID-19: wear a face covering when you cannot distance from others, limit large gatherings, and wash your hands regularly. August 27th was the grand opening for the Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus of Pasco County. This was a significant day for our community as we opened a facility that will bring increased economic impact to our area. The WRSCPC is a true public-private partnership with the land and facility owned by Pasco County with a private day-to-day operator. The land for the sports campus was donated to Pasco County by the Porter family of Wiregrass Ranch.
Weekends will see amateur youth sports tournaments fill local hotel room nights with families and athletes spending money in our local restaurants and local stores. Local programming will be available during the week while the facility is also an event space. Prior to construction, we went through detailed studies and reviews of potential uses for this site, it was clear that an indoor facility focused on youth sports and travel tournaments would have the biggest impact for our citizens and economy. The weekend after the grand opening saw the first travel basketball tournament in the facility, which was expected to generate 500 hotel room nights in Pasco County. Due to COVID-19 capacity restrictions, we had to scale down our plans for a large community celebration to open the facility, but please check out the Pasco County government YouTube page for video highlights.
We know people are still hurting and there are many programs available to assist. Operation Feed Pasco, a partnership between Pasco County and the United Way of Pasco County has now served over 84,000 meals. This program is utilizing 11 local restaurants to help provide food for 16 local non-profit food banks or soup kitchens. A similar program focused on food-insecure seniors has served over 31,500 meals since it began in April. I’m proud of these programs keeping our restaurants open while providing our non-profits an extra source of meals when there is a great need. There are many other programs out there, from reimbursement grants for Personal Protective Equipment and training on how to properly clean facilities for businesses to Pasco CARES program to help with bills for individuals. Please check out MyPasco.net for the latest information and eligibility for these programs.
The deadline for self-response to the 2020 Census is now September 30th. Please make sure you fill out the Census, it only takes a few minutes and will help ensure Pasco County receives a fair share of state and federal funding over the coming decade. You can take the Census online at 2020Census.gov or by phone or mail. Pasco County’s response rate is slightly ahead of the statewide response rate. Remember, you can always find the latest on the Pasco County website at MyPasco.net. Please stay safe by following the guidelines provided by our health experts. We will continue to get through this by working together! About: Commissioner Mike Moore is currently the Chairman of the Pasco County Commission. He lives in Wesley Chapel with his wife and three children.
LEARN BABYTIME & STORYTIMES
TEENS (CONT.)
9/1, 9/8, 9/15, 9/22, 9/29 | 10:15 AM - Virtual Storytime with Ms. Bea 9/2, 9/9, 9/16, 9/23, 9/30 | 10:15 AM - Virtual Storytime with Miss Cindy S 9/2, 9/9, 9/16, 9/23, 9/30 | 11:00 AM - Virtual Storytime Dance Party 9/4, 9/11, 9/18, 9/25 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Storytime with Ms. Karen 9/4, 9/11, 9/18, 9/25 | 11:15 AM - Virtual Baby Time for Ages Birth-2 9/5, 9/19 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Storytime with Ms. Emily 9/7, 9/14, 9/21, 9/28 | 10:15 AM - Virtual Babytime with Miss Cindy 9/12, 9/26 | 10:0 AM - Virtual Storytime with Ms. Karyn
9/16 | 4:00 PM - Hispanic Heritage Month: Mexican atole and conchas 9/19 | 10:00 AM - Craft at Home: Teens 9/21 | All Day - Come Grow with Us Garden Craft 9/22 | 4:00 PM - Virtual Career Development Workshop: Interview Tips 9/23 | 4:00 PM -Hispanic Heritage Scavenger Hunt 9/29 | 4:00 PM - Virtual Career Development Workshop: How to select your college major 9/30 | 4:00 PM - Virtual Game Zone: Loteria Edition
CHILDREN 9/5, 9/12, 9/19, 9/26 | All Day - Virtual STEAM Saturdays 9/5 | 10:00 AM - Craft at Home: Kids 9/5 | 2:00 PM - Planet Lego! 9/5, 9/12, 9/19, 9/26 | The Illustrator Adventure via Zoom 9/9 | 2:00 PM - Virtual Level Up 9/12 | 2:00 PM - Virtual Tea-Rex Party on Zoom 9/26 | 2:00 PM - Virtual Cook-a-Book: A Cooked Up fairy Tale
TWEENS 9/1 | 4:30 PM - Virtual Game On 9/8 | 4:30 PM - Virtual Delicious Dishes: Soft Pretzels 9/10, 9/24 | 5:00 PM - Virtual Book Club (Gr. 6-8): Taste of Sunshine 9/12 | 10:00 AM - Craft at Home: Tweens 9/14, 9/21, 9/28 | 10:00 AM - Maker Monday 9/15 | 4:30 PM - Virtual Chalk Painting 9/22 | 4:30 PM - Virtual Stem Studio: Color 9/29 | 4:30 PM - Virtual Comic Book Picture Frames
TEENS 9/1 | 4:00 PM - Virtual Career Development Workshop: Skills Identification 9/2, 9/9, 9/16, 9/23 | 6:00 PM - Online D&D Club 9/8 | 4:00 PM - Virtual Career Development Workshop: Writing a Professional Resume 9/9 | 4:00 AM - Virtual Fandom Trivia: Disney Movies 9/14, 9/21, 9/28 | 10:00 AM - Maker Monday 9/15 | 4:00 PM - Virtual Career Development Workshop: Completing the College Application
ADULTS 9/1, 9/8, 9/15, 9/22, 9/29 | All Day - Facebook Crafter Morning 9/1, 9/8, 9/15, 9/22, 9/29 | 9:30 AM - English for Speakers of Other Languages 9/2 | 10:00 AM - Medicare Basics with Shine via Zoom 9/2 | 1:00 PM - Medicare Part C Seminar with Shine via Zoom 9/2, 9/9, 9/16, 9/23 | 6:00 PM - Online D&D Club 9/3 | 10:00 AM - Medicare Part D with Shine via Zoom 9/3 | 2:00 PM - Virtual Yarn Pumpkin Craft Instruction 9/6 | 2:00 PM - Virtual Bingo for Adults 9/3, 9/10, 9/17, 9/24 | 3:00 PM - Yarn for a Cause 9/3 | 6:00 PM - Virtual Info & Relax: An Intro to Sept. Yoga Series 9/8 | 1:30 PM - Library Advisory Board, Hybrid Meeting, Virtual via Webex 9/8 | 5:00 PM - Zoom Reads Online Mystery Book Club 9/9 | 6:00 PM - Virtual Crafty Get Together 9/11 | 6:00 PM - Virtual Yin Yoga 9/14, 9/28 | All Day - Virtual Staff Pick Monday 9/14, 9/21, 9/28 | 10:00 AM - Maker Monday 9/15 | 6:00 PM - Virtual Mystery Book Club 9/17 | 2:00 PM - Virtual United Tastes of America: Ohio 9/17 | 6:00 PM - Virtual Yoga for Stress Relief 9/21 | All Day - Come Grow with Us Garden Craft 9/22 | 5:00 PM - Zoom Reads Online Book Club 9/22 | 6:00 PM | Virtual Yoga Flow: Autumn Release 9/23 | 4:00 PM - Hispanic Heritage Scavenger Hunt 9/24 | 8:00 PM - Virtual Book Club: A Simple Favor 9/26 | 10:00 AM - Craft at Home: Adults 9/28 | 6:00 PM - Virtual Hatha Yoga 9/29 | 6:00 PM - Online Book Club
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
LEARN (Cont.)
WE ARE
STRONGER WITH YOU WE ARE OPEN! Our Number One Priority is Your Safety Following guidance from the CDC and government officials, we have updated our policies, practices and procedures to ensure the highest standards of cleanliness. We have also made appropriate accommodations for social distancing to create a safer environment as members get back to focusing on their health and their community at the Y. While we can’t predict the long-term effects of COVID-19, we are committed to doing whatever is necessary to ensure your safety. The way we’ll interact with each other will be different, but at the Y, you’ll always be able to improve your health and wellness, nurture your children’s potential and help strengthen our community.
Stop in today for a tour or give us a call at 813-780-9622. EAST PASCO FAMILY YMCA
37301 Chapel Hill Loop, Zephyrhills, FL 33542 P 813 780 9622 tampaymca.org At the YMCA, no one is turned away due to an inability to pay.
LEARNING FOR LIFE Homeschool Group
EAST PASCO FAMILY YMCA DAY: TIME: AGE: COST:
Wednesdays 10am-12pm 5 and up $20/month per family
Must have a Tampa YMCA Family Membership to participate. Email ryan.pratt@tampaymca.org for more information.
Homeschool Group enriches your child’s home school experience through socialization, physical fitness activities, and learning. The exciting curriculum implements the YMCA four core values: STEM, Arts & Crafts, engaging group games, and outside activities. Join us for friendship, learning and fun!
Register at the Welcome Center today!
ART
GYM
EAST PASCO FAMILY YMCA 37301 Chapel Hill Lp., Zephyrhills, FL 33541 | P 813 780 9622 tampaymca.org
SCIENCE
WORK
Wells Fargo Donates $20,000 to Support Small Businesses in Pasco County The bank has donated more than $150,000 in the past decade to the Pasco EDC SMARTstart Microloan Fund
The Pasco EDC is thrilled to announce a $20,000 donation from the Wells Fargo Foundation to the SMARTstart Microloan Fund. During the last decade, Wells Fargo has donated 12 times for a total of $163,000. The Microloan Fund supports small businesses and start-ups in Pasco County that are not able to receive loans through traditional means. “Small businesses are the fabric of our communities,” said Pasco EDC Board Member and Wells Fargo Pasco East District Manager J. Bradley Smith. “That’s why so much of what we do centers around helping
businesses succeed and grow. Year after year, we continue to partner with the Pasco EDC to support our local, resilient small businesses by providing financial education and philanthropic contributions.”
traditional bank loans. The fact that Wells Fargo still sees the value in our small businesses and is willing to help through a private donation speaks volumes to them as strong partners in our community.”
This fiscal year 4 microloans have been awarded to a delicatessen, packaged beverage manufacturer, online home health agency and a gourmet café totaling $147,500. In a recent testimonial a single mom with two kids said it was a struggle to get banks to support her. She used the SMARTstart CO.STARTERS program to improve her understanding of the legal, accounting, financial and property issues related to small business ownership, was approved for a microloan, and within four months of opening her studio, she was ready to expand into a larger space.
Over the lifetime the of the Microloan Fund Program, there have been 55 microloans awarded totaling just over $1.6 million to local businesses with an average loan of $34,909.
“Our SMARTstart program supports Pasco entrepreneurs and small businesses through a variety of resources,” said Bill Cronin, President/CEO, Pasco EDC. “This donation adds financial support for businesses when they are ineligible for
Contact the Pasco EDC at 813926-0827 or visit http://www. smartstartpasco.com for more information, or to consider donating to the fund.
Microloan Program applicants must be for-profit companies located in Pasco County, and borrowers must show they have the experience and resources to be successful business operators. Proceeds may be used for working capital, inventory, supplies, furniture, fixtures, machinery and equipment, but not to purchase real estate or to refinance existing debt.
About Pasco Economic Development Council:
Pasco 2020: A Story of Strength The Pasco Economic Development Council (Pasco EDC) has created a video production to encapsulate the strength and resiliency of Pasco County’s first responders, businesses, residents, elected officials, and community organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic. The virtual event, Pasco 2020: A Story of Strength, is presented by AdventHealth Dade City, AdventHealth Wesley Chapel, and AdventHealth Zephyrhills. The video was produced by Diamond View Studios utilizing footage submitted by Pasco County residents and businesses. The Pasco EDC is inviting our
community to join us live on Thursday, September 3rd at 5:30 p.m. to watch the video premiere. During a major public health crisis and economic disruption which none of us have experienced in our lifetime, the Pasco County community came together and supported one another. “This has been an extremely difficult time for everyone as they try to navigate life throughout the pandemic,” said Bill Cronin, President/CEO, Pasco EDC. “I am so grateful for the sense of community we have in Pasco County and I am proud we can share a part
of the story through this live event. The video production, true to the event name, tells a great story of strength.” To receive reminders and updates about the live event go to the Facebook or YouTube link below and select GET REMINDER, the premiere goes live promptly at 5:30 p.m. We are asking the public to comment along during the video and share it with their friends and colleagues. Ways to watch the event LIVE: Facebook, YouTube, Pasco TV: Frontier Channel 42, Spectrum Channel 643
The Pasco Economic Development Council is committed to developing Florida’s most competitive climate for business growth by providing businesses, that seek to start, move, or grow in the North Tampa Bay area, a comprehensive suite of programs that can help them to reach their full economic potential. Since 1987, Pasco EDC has fostered a strong partnership funded by corporate and public investors focused on the economic vitality of Pasco County. Discover more at www.pascoedc.com.
WORK (Cont.)
INTERNATIONAL UPDATE
Meet the Member
Interview with Marschall Ungar from Qnami AG:
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 Qnami. How did you come to Switzerland and how did Qnami come about? It all started with the lab work of Prof. Dr. Patrick Maletinsky at the University of Basel. Known as a cluster for life sciences, Basel is a vibrant city that offers great opportunities. Since 2016 we have been working enthusiastically to build a global quantum industry from this city in the heart of Europe.
a precision that could never be achieved before. The technique is called quantum sensing and Qnami is enthusiastically developing it to improve people’s lives and the world.
changes in your design or fabrication process. What makes Qnami future-oriented?
Extensive academic research and deep knowlWe are currently launching edge build the ground for our flagship product, the all that Qnami does. With this technology, Qnami is Qnami ProteusQ. It the first complete scanning NV redefining the common understanding of preci(nitrogen-vacancy) microscope for the analysis of sion. Qnami offers an open magnetic materials at the team culture of mutual atomic scale. The Qnami respect and intercultural understanding which is ProteusQ system comes with state-of-the-art elecboth business and scientifCould you give us a short ic minded. Qnami attracts tronics and software. Its overview of Qnami? flexible design allows for young, multicultural, open future adjustments and and skilled team members, Qnami is a VC-backed who have a deep passion high-tech company with its scaling, expansion and for the work. capability upgrades. The roots at the Physics Department of the University proprietary Qnami ProteusQ quantum technology Qnami is a company of Basel in Switzerland. It founded and based in Badevelops fundamental new provides high precision sel. What do you particutechnology using quantum images for you to see directly the most subtle prop- larly appreciate about this mechanics. The control of the state of a single electron erties of your samples and region? enables measurement with the effect of microscopic
Basel lies at the heart of a developing center of expertise in quantum and diamond sensing technologies, running from Ulm, through Stuttgart, Freiburg, Basel and on to Zurich. This gives us access to both extremely high quality talent, as well as extremely high quality of life!
For more information on The 5th Floor in US or Switzerland or to learn more about how you can do business with this 5th Floor Member, please e-mail us at Info@The5thFloor.US.
PLAY
Take Work From Home to the Next Level This Fall & Winter Enjoy a Workcation at Royalton Luxury Resorts
Upgrade your office to a room with a view at Royalton Luxury Resorts in Punta Cana, Riviera Cancun or Jamaica and enjoy great savings with incredible rates on stays of 14 nights or more for travel September 1, 2020 - February 10, 2021. Workcations start at $899* per person for 14 nights at Royalton Splash Punta Cana and $1,389* per person at Royalton Riviera Cancun and Royalton Negril. Flights can be added for the package.
Cancun/Riviera Maya: •Royalton CHIC Suites Cancun [formerly Royalton Suites Cancun] •Royalton Riviera Cancun •Hideaway at Royalton Riviera Cancun •Planet Hollywood Beach Resort All Suites Cancun •Planet Hollywood Adult Scene All Suites Cancun •Estudio Playa Mujeres •Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya
Workcations: can upgrade your office with the Workcation promotions at Royalton Negril, Royalton Riviera Cancun or Royalton Splash Punta Cana bookable exclusively through Vacation Express! Royalton has everything needed to create the perfect remote work or remote learning environment for fourteen nights or more.
Punta Cana: •Royalton Splash Punta Cana Resort & Spa [formerly Grand Memories Splash] •Royalton CHIC Punta Cana Resort & Spa [formerly CHIC Punta Cana] •Royalton Bavaro •Hideaway at Royalton Punta Cana
Jamaica: •Royalton Negril •Hideaway at Royalton Negril •Grand Lido Negril •Royalton Blue Waters •Royalton White Sands
Costa Rica: •Planet Hollywood Beach Resort Costa Rica Aruba: •Riu Palace Aruba •Divi Village •Divi Dutch Village
•Divi Phoenix St Maarten: •Sonesta Ocean Point •Divi Little Bay Remote Learning Opportunities in a Remote Paradise for Kids! If you have children, don’t worry, they can take advantage of your workcation too. Plus, one kid stays, plays and eats free!†
time prior to travel. We recommend that you visit the websites for your air carrier and destination frequently to verify flight schedules, sign up for travel alerts and monitor updated entry requirements.
•Safe, Quiet Learning Space for Kids’ Remote Learning
We are as excited as you are to see travel to the Caribbean, Mexico and Costa Rica return. Thank you for trusting us to see you through the storm, and remember, we are #TourismStrong!
•Supervised Activities for Children During the Work Day
Call or email us now to book your workcation! (407)
•Educational Experiences for Children During the Work Day Entry Requirements & Flights: Hotels, airlines and destinations may make last-minute changes to ensure compliance with new guidelines related to social distancing. This may include flight schedule changes, variations in services and amenities provided and new requirements for entry into the destination such as proof of a negative COVID test within a certain period of
203-5000 or E-Vacations@ solymartravels.com
Visit https://www.royaltonresorts.com/royalton/offers/ offers/upgrade-your-office for more information!
PLAY (Cont.)
Feeling like You Need a Staycation? Check out the brand new Hyatt Place in Wesley Chapel! It is the perfect place to unwind and relax all while being only minutes from USF, Busch Gardens, golf courses, Downtown Tampa and Tampa International Airport!
26000 Sierra Center Blvd Lutz, FL 33559, USA 813-803-5600
Brand new Hyatt Place Wesley Chapel is conveniently located just off Interstate I-75, (exit 275) and Highway 56. It is located right across the street from the Tampa Premium Outlets, within walking distance to more than 30 restaurants, cafes and bars. It is a quick 10-minute drive from University of South Florida, Busch Gardens and Adventure Island. Minutes away from several golf courses, nature preserves and a 30-minute drive from Tampa International Airport as well as Downtown Tampa. Hyatt Place is a clean, comfortable and relaxing place to stay for all your out of town visitors, employees and partners that you may be affiliated with.
To make reservations, guests may call hotel directly. Please do not hesitate to call or email, if I can be of any assistance. Contact Judy Gleeson at judy.gleeson@hyatt.com 813-803-5600 x 5117 ▪
Free Hot Breakfast Buffet for our World of Hyatt Members
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On Site Fitness Center and Outdoor Swimming Pool
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Complimentary Wi-Fi Access in all Guestrooms
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Dry cleaning services and on-site guest coin laundry
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Complimentary Parking
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Mini-Refrigerator and Coffee Makers in all rooms
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Coffee to Cocktails Bar including Starbucks and light bites
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Irons & Ironing Boards in each room
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On Site Business Center
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Cozy Corner with pull out sofa in each room
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
RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT Kim Patrick A special shout out goes out to Avalon Park Wesley Chapel resident, Kim Patrick! Kim is an active member in our community who always has a friendly smile and is willing to lend a hand to her fellow neighbors in need. We appreciate Kim for her care and dedication to our community and for always looking after others. Thank you Kim for all that you do! Nominate a neighbor or resident you think deserves a shoutout! Email us your nomination: Info@AvalonParkSun.com!
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
To SUBMIT your local LIVE news.... to ADVERTISE, to REGISTER or to RECEIVE the Avalon Park Sun email: Info@AvalonParkSun.com
LIVE WELL (Cont.)
Nancy & Sydney InQuickER Patients
“InQuickER was a savior that day.” When Sydney came home from school, she wasn’t feeling well. She had a high fever and it wasn’t going away. So, her mom found AdventHealth’s online scheduling tool, InQuicker, and reserved an ER treatment time, making Sydney’s visit fast and easy. Get in quicker and get out faster at an AdventHealth ER near you. GetInQuickER.com In case of a life-threatening emergency, call 911.
W E L O V E R E C E I V I N G U P D AT E S F R O M OUR COMMUNITY RESIDENTS! To SUBMIT your Community News... Email us: Info@AvalonParkSun.com
COMMUNITY CORNER GUEST SUBMISSION
How Would You Like to Grow?
A look into how traditional neighborhood developments turn your town into a home
Smart Growth and Traditional Neighborhood Development. Photo Credit: Dover, Kohl & Associates
By Raven Halle
something different from the traditional ideas of suburbia; Developing cities often find where mixed-use fosters conthemselves having to answer nections through an emphathe question, “how should sis on the pedestrian, other we continue to grow?” Due single-use developments to developmental pressures, may rely on vehicular modes not growing at all is rarely of transportation to create an option; in turn, places face the same. but often lesser a choice between growing connections. Again, in tradithrough implementing the tional neighborhoods, “life principles of conventional takes place on foot:” while suburban development and your children walk to school, the principles of traditional you can walk to the grocery neighborhood development. store; step out of your apartIn a few words, and in favor ment building’s elevator and of the latter, the traditional be immediately between the neighborhood developments wine bar and the dance stuare perhaps best captured by dio; go to your dental aparchitect Jan Gehl’s statement pointment and then the eye that “life takes place on foot.” doctor across the street; walk Traditional neighborhood de- your mother from the assistvelopments, which are often ed-living facility to the pool unique to their location and for a summer’s day swim. serve as prototypes for othThis is what it means to be a er traditional neighborhood walkable place; to be a town. developments, are displays of what residential areas First, let’s go back around can become when the focus 80 years to life in America is placed on people rather after World War II. During than on industry. The key to this period, things such as understanding the influence the GI Bill, the baby boom, of traditional neighborhood the increased affordability of developments lies in their automobiles, and the largeidentity as mixed-use develscale housing projects built opments, meaning that they on the outskirts of existing are a blend of the residential, cities contributed to what we the commercial, and the encall “urban sprawl,” or the vironmental. This mixed-use migration of folks from big approach to planning offers cities to single-family homes
Conventional Suburban Development. Photo Credit: Dover, Kohl & Associates
often separated by roads, landscaping, and long expanses of land. These ideas might conjure within us the iconic rhetoric of the “American Dream,” or the notion of 2.5 children, a pet, and a picket-fence. While this long-surviving concept was first an item of praise and then a sign of conformity, early suburbia’s promise of a cookie-cutter life personified a sort of affluence that became highly attractive to the generation who had recently survived two world wars and the Great Depression. So, after the war, the industries which had mobilized the Allied victory turned their focus inward to propel the previously mentioned and eventual causes of urban sprawl. Among the many detriments to come from this—like the loss of agricultural lands, an increase in distance between home, work, and leisure places, and an increase in pollution due to distance—is wthe loss of a sense of place, or, as coined by James Howard Kunstler, “the geography of nowhere.” This is, in the last 20 years, perhaps what traditional neighborhood developments have most sought to change: turning “nowhere” into “somewhere.” And they
have done just that. To create an analogy, creating a town to planners is like making a cake to bakers. Suburbia has the ingredients: people, houses, sometimes community centers, cars, and roads which lead the cars out of the neighborhood to a desired destination—work, school, the grocery store, church, piano lessons. To bakers, this is the equivalent of eggs, butter, flour, sugar, and utensils lined up on the table. But to bake a cake, the ingredients must be more than present—they must be mixed. So, too, do the ingredients of the suburbs need to be combined to create a town. In the simplest of terms, this comparison displays the difference between a conventional suburban development and a traditional neighborhood development. When people, houses, businesses, schools, roads, and parks are integrated—the “mixed” in “mixed-use—” a town is born. This is the creation of “somewhere,” a place not isolated by gates or roads but open and accessible to all. Cont. on next page...
COMMUNITY (Cont.)
Residential Streetscape: Traditional Neighborhood Development. Photo Credit: Gettyimages
Again, traditional neighborhood developments do not necessarily subscribe to the cookie-cutter homes of the suburbs: a doctor can live next door to a teacher; a lawyer down the hall from an author. And, further again, a town is sustainable and self-contained in that most immediate needs can be met without having to commute. Ultimately, the concentration of homes and necessary establishments forges a sense
of connection, better allowing things like the stimulation of the local economy through shopping small businesses and supporting the community through events such as annual holiday celebrations. A town’s sense of connection and community is certainly facilitated by its residents, but on a more basic level, it is first rendered by the careful planning and construction on the part of its developers.
Residential Streetscape: Conventional Suburban Development. Photo Credit: Gettyimages
For a town to be a successful pedestrian-oriented development, many complex design and planning problems must be addressed. For a town to be effective, “synergies,” or positive relationships between multiple agents must be created and designed to work both vertically and horizontally. Synergies in a traditional neighborhood development be seen in vertical mixed-use buildings, such as those that have apartments
Commercial Streetscape: Conventional Suburban Development. Photo Credit: Gettyimages
Commercial Streetscape: Traditional Neighborhood Development. Photo Credit: Gettyimages
above shops and offices. This is an example of one of the many characteristics of a traditional neighborhood development—also including a variation in housing type, a well-planned and connected system of streets, and conveniences such as places of worship, parks, schools, and pools—all of which will be discussed in a later series of articles revolving around traditional neighborhood developments.
COMMUNITY (Cont.)
GUEST SUBMISSION
Rise and Whine
I am uncertain why during this Summer of My Malcontent (The title of my manuscript which is under construction) I cannot get a full night’s sleep. My internal alarm is set for 3:00AM, and it doesn’t have a snooze button. Melatonin seems to kick in about 10AM the next morning. Even tried cutting out coffee. In America, there is great societal unrest. Not just in faraway megalopolises, but even here locally. That’s right – Gotham City, the City Beautiful and my little beach village all have their fair share. Protests, riots, and bears are now daily occurrences, regardless of the protester’s geographic proximity or relationship to the episode which ignited today’s commotion. Economically, some businesses are surviving while others are on the cusp of failing. As a student of politics, the political divisiveness is unlike I have ever seen or studied; it is as if Archduke Ferdinand has just been re-assassinated and Yugoslavia is about to re-born (and we know how that turned out). Cultural endeavors are sadly cancelling their event seasons. Professional sports matches are sporadically being played, but only when the overpaid brats are not too busy trying to grab headlines for their self-righteous aggrievement du jour. Unknown college prospects are mimicking those actions threatening to cause the cancelation of all fall sports. Only 20% of NBA players are registered to vote – when they take their civic responsibility sincerely, then maybe I’ll take them seriously. Personally, I am without real turmoil in my world. I can create some drama if I think about. My arthritic left knee burns
continually, and my daughters do not spend enough time with their dad. I cannot seem to lose my quarantine fifteen. My facial skin is flaking like a warm croissant, and my barnacle count is rising like the unemployment rate. I know I’ll get an earful from my dermatologist for the frequency of my beach visits. My business is solid, there are fish tacos on the table and Tesla stock is skyrocketing. The tribulations of 2020 are not unique to recent American history. History repeats itself – right? I have been searching for a corollary year. How about 1968? ’68 had a world-wide pandemic, civil rights protests, Vietnam war protests, assassinations, a slowing economy portending the 1969-70 recession, and protesters being cleared from public parks with violent police forces using excessive tear gas (Chicago’s Grant Park). Any of this sound familiar? (In the early 80’s I attended a lecture by Yippie leader Jerry Rubin for poly-sci extra credit although I was clueless why he was famous.) 1968 was the year Trump received his 1-Y draft deferment (unqualified for duty) and Biden celebrated his 50th birthday! (Ok, the latter isn’t true… he was actually turned 26 in November). As I have composed this essay, I racked my brain for childhood memories. While the memories have freely flowed, there is no logical chronological order. I was certainly alive in 1968, but not attuned into political, civic, or economic events. We have recently heard lots of
comparisons to the Spanish Flu (1918 – 1920). Did you know that in 1968 – 1969 there was a Hong Kong flu pandemic? Google tells me that the Hong Kong flu was responsible for an estimated 1 million deaths worldwide and about 100,000 in the United States. – but I do not remember my grandparents being concerned. My very first current event memory that I can date is from 1972, when George Wallace was shot. I know not why I cannot remember Bobby Kennedy being murdered, or Martin Luther King being assassinated, but that was 1968. My paternal grandparents were hospitalized from a serious car accident, but I don’t know which year that was either. I remember taking my dad to the airport for his second Vietnam deployment which I think was 1969. I was just too young to comprehend the civil unrest of those times, and I didn’t have a rotary dial cell phone with a 24-hour news cycle to keep me informed. I learned from my sports research that 1968 included a Black Panthers’ protest at the Mexico Olympics (now an iconic image) and that Mickey Lolich pitched 3 complete games, with the Tigers beating the Cards to become World Series champs (I have his baseball card). Back to the 2020s. During a client conversation this week I had a take-inventory-moment reflective pause. The client was reporting on how busy they are. These surgeons focus on Lasik and cataract surgeries. Thanks to the safety benefit of masks, in particular seniors, are wearing face coverings as they venture in our Covid-19 infected world. However, people are growing
increasingly annoyed with the centuries’ old technology of spectacles. Those bespectacled types are using modern medical surgeries to eliminate the nuisance of eyewear which fog up, slip off, and do not fit correctly when wearing a mask. Voilà! Which other daily products and practices are obsolete and can be replaced with new widgets and gadgets? Tesla has a car that drives itself and Husqvarna has a robot that mows your lawn. Siri and my Google Mini stalk and eavesdrop my every conversation and serve ads for my every wanton need – even if ain’t politically correct or socially acceptable. Amazon and Uber Eats will deliver any product you need to your front door – remember when FedEx bragged about “By 10 Tomorrow Morning?” Beam me up Scotty! I attribute my sleeplessness to our societal mayhem. While I have no doubt life will regain equilibrium, there is so much I don’t understand. Maybe my cerebrum is being underutilized, or just simply does not have the capacity to piece together a cohesive understanding or proffer a resolution to make peace with 2020. If you are not resting well, please have solace in knowing you are not the only one. And if you able to sleep through the night without being disturbed by CV-19, #BLM, National Hurricane Center updates, the fact that the Red Sox will finish under .500 (and the list goes on), PLEASE share your methods! I could use a good night’s sleep! The Village Idiot
