America250 Comes to Avalon Park
As summer arrives in Central Florida, Avalon Park Orlando is preparing for a season filled with connection, celebration, and community pride. At the heart of this year’s excitement is a historic milestone that will be celebrated across the nation and right here in Avalon Park.
In 2026, the United States will mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Locally, the celebration carries even more meaning, as Downtown Avalon Park will also mark the 25th anniversary of its Fourth of July Celebration. To honor these once-in-a-lifetime occasions, the Avalon Park Group Foundation is bringing America250 to the community during the annual Fourth of July festivities in Downtown Avalon Park Orlando on Saturday, July 4th from 5-9 PM.
The celebration will be a full day of patriotic fun for the whole community. The day begins with the Annual Firecracker 5K at Town Park, where participants can run, jog, walk, stroll, or roll through Downtown Avalon Park. Onsite check-in and registration begin at 7 AM, with the race starting at 8 AM. Participants are encouraged to pre-register online at AvalonParkFoundation.com.
Later in the day, the community is invited to take part in one of Avalon Park’s favorite traditions, the Apple Pie Bake-Off Bakers must register online in advance at AvalonParkOrlando.com, with pie drop-off scheduled from 5–6 PM at Eye Create Her. Judging begins at 6 PM, and winners will be announced at 7:30 PM at the Town Park Stage.
The evening celebration will take place from 5–9 PM and will include the annual Bike Parade, bounce park, food trucks, community performances, vendors, music, and family-friendly activities throughout Downtown Avalon Park. Families interested in participating in the Bike Parade can register in advance at AvalonParkOrlando.com. The celebration will conclude with a fireworks show at 9 PM, lighting up the sky in honor
of Independence Day and America’s 250th anniversary.
The America250 at Avalon Park Commemoration will blend history, culture, civic pride, and family-friendly fun into one meaningful celebration. Designed to honor the past while inspiring the future, the event will give residents and visitors an opportunity to reflect on the values that have shaped the country, honor those who have served, and celebrate the community spirit that has defined Avalon Park for 25 years.
In addition to preparations for America250, June brings plenty of ways to enjoy summer in Avalon Park Orlando. The Marketplace at Avalon Park continues to serve as a hub for weekly entertainment and family-friendly gatherings, including Musical Bingo, Trivia Night, live music, and special themed events. Avalon Park Gym also offers residents opportunities to stay active and focused on wellness throughout the season.
From summer activities and community traditions to a historic national commemoration, Avalon Park Orlando is once again proving that it is a place where people can truly live, learn, work, and play.
For more details, event updates, and registration information, follow Avalon Park Orlando @ AvalonParkOrlando and The Marketplace at Avalon Park @MarketplaceAtAvalonPark on social media.
Coffee with Beat: The Heat is On, Vote in the Primaries on August 18th
the general election in November.
Also, if you grew up with soccer, the World Cup is coming to the U.S. very soon. Avalon Park Group is delivering on my earlier statement in this column: I am coming home to Central Florida.
That does not mean that I will sleep in these days. The usual early morning calls with APG’s offices in Switzerland, Malaysia, and other countries still happen, but APG’s entrepreneurial main focus will be in Central Florida. Coming home!
Something has changed for me when it comes to patriotism over the last six months. After living, learning, working, and playing in America for over 30 years, I took the step of becoming a naturalized American citizen. Many of the entrepreneurial activities I was able to pursue during the last 30 years, including developing Avalon Park, were only possible in this great country.
This year, Memorial Day was different, and the upcoming 4th of July will be as well. I am proud to be an American and will exercise my right to vote. Hopefully, you all will vote as well on August 18th. The Sun will have a special edition in July focused on the primaries. I am already looking forward to the large 4th of July festivities in Avalon Park.
Last week, I joined a meeting with Commissioner Maribel Gomez Cordero and the Sheriff’s Department. The meeting was held in the APG building on The 5th Floor. HOA leaders from Waterford Lakes, Eastwood, Stoneybrook, Avalon Park, Avalon Lakes, Timber Springs, and Spring Isle met with Orange County officials
readers. Can you help us put together a list for the elected officials and candidates in the upcoming elections? What is missing, and what needs the help of Orange County? What are your current concerns?
Over the last 30 years, one of my favorite questions to elected officials and candidates has often been: If you had three wishes, and money, politics, party lines, and all other considerations did not matter, what would those wishes be for your constituents?
May I ask you directly, loyal readers, to send us your top three wishes for the town of Avalon Park and East Orange County? The Sun will make sure Orange County leaders and candidates for office receive them and explain how they intend to deliver on them for you.
The upcoming election will be a game changer. The mayor and the majority of County Commission seats will be new. This probably only happens once in a lifetime.
Let us use this opportunity to elect experienced leaders for Orange County.
2026 State of the County
Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings will deliver his final State of the County address on Friday, June 5, 2026, in the Linda W. Chapin Theater at the Orange County Convention Center. During the address, Mayor Demings will reflect on the county’s accomplishments and challenges during his two terms. Looking forward, he will emphasize a continued commitment to a culture of excellence and innovation.
Friday, June 5, 2026
8:00 a.m. | Breakfast & Networking
8:45 a.m. | Doors Open
9:00 a.m. | State of the County Address
Linda W. Chapin Theatre at the Orange
County Convention Center 9800 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819
Sign-Up To Attend: https:// lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/ reg/nxgsexf
Avalon Park Gym Partners with PopStroke Orlando to Bring Community Wellness Outside of the Gym
Avalon Park Gym is taking fitness beyond its four walls through a new community wellness initiative in partnership with PopStroke Orlando. On Saturday, June 6, at 8:30 a.m., Avalon Park Gym will host a special outdoor bootcamp-style workout at PopStroke Orlando, located at 321 N. Alafaya Trail, Orlando, FL 32828.
The event, titled Bootcamp Workout + Bubbles & Bites, is designed to bring the “gym outside of the gym” by creating accessible, welcoming fitness experiences in community spaces. Led by Coach Denis, the 45-minute fullbody workout will challenge and motivate participants of all fitness levels, from beginners to advanced, through a combination of traditional bodyweight exercises focused on building strength, endurance, and stamina.
Following the workout, participants are invited to stay and enjoy Bites & Bubbles while connecting with local wellness vendors and learning more about businesses making an impact in the Orlando wellness community. Class participants will also receive 20% off brunch following the event.
Project Lean Nation will also be on site to share information about its health and
wellness offerings, including ready-to-eat meals, expert coaching, and comprehensive wellness tools designed to support lasting health and weight-loss results.
“This event reflects exactly what Avalon Park Gym is all about: creating opportunities for health, wellness, and connection that meet people where they are,” said Monica Puche of Avalon Park Group. “By partnering with local businesses like PopStroke and welcoming wellness partners like Project Lean Nation, we are able to extend the gym experience into the community in a fun and meaningful way.”
Tickets are $20 per person and include the fitness class experience. Space is limited, and participants are encouraged to register in advance by scanning the QR code on the event flyer or clicking here.
Avalon Park Gym continues to expand its wellness programming through community partnerships, pop-up fitness opportunities, and events designed to support healthy living throughout East Orlando.
For more information, visit AvalonParkGym. com or call 407-988-3884.
Real Moments, Real Connections: Welcome to Fluttering Shutters Photography
Hey there, neighbor! If you’ve been looking for a photographer who cares less about awkward posing and more about capturing the actual, messy, beautiful magic of your life, you’re in the right place.
Here at Fluttering Shutters Photography, we aren’t just about snapping pictures; we’re about celebrating the people who make Central Florida such a wonderful place to live. From backyard family laughs to milestones that deserve a spot on the mantel, our goal is to capture your memories exactly as they felt in the moment.
And speaking of big milestones... we have some incredibly exciting news to share with our community!
We are officially opening the doors to our brand-new, permanent photography studio space, and we want you there to celebrate with us. Whether we’re chasing the golden hour light at a local park or hanging out in the creative comfort of this beautiful new studio, we are so thrilled to have a dedicated home base to welcome you into.
Come Celebrate Our Grand Opening!
When: Saturday, June 6th from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Where: 3730 Avalon Park E. Blvd, Orlando, FL 32828
Pop in to tour the new space, grab a treat, say hi, and see where the magic happens. Whether you’ve been with us since the beginning or are just discovering us now, we would love to see your friendly face.
The name “Fluttering Shutters” is all about that quick, joyful heartbeat when everything clicks into place. It’s a nod to the fast-moving pace of life and our passion for freezing those sweet, fleeting moments before they slip away. We love watching our clients’ families grow, celebrating your big wins, and being a small part of the stories that tie our community together.
At the end of the day, you aren’t just a client on a schedule— you’re our neighbor, and your stories matter.
So, mark your calendars for June 6th, and in the meantime, head over to flutteringshuttersphotography.com to take a look around. We can’t wait to welcome you into the new studio and the Fluttering Shutters family!
Reconnect with Hobbies this Summer at Encore
For seniors, summer is the perfect season to reconnect with hobbies, enjoy the outdoors, and spend meaningful time with friends, family, and neighbors. At Encore at Avalon Park, we believe staying socially connected and active plays an important role in living a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life. Creating a strong sense of belonging and community is at the heart of everything we do, and summer offers endless opportunities for residents to embrace joyful experiences together.
If you’re looking for inspiration, here are a few wonderful summer bucket list ideas for adults 55+ that encourage wellness, movement, creativity, and connection.
Start the season with morning walks or light outdoor exercise. Staying physically active can help improve balance, mobility, and overall wellness while also boosting mood and energy levels. Avalon Park’s walkable community, scenic lakes, and beautiful surroundings make it easy to enjoy fresh air and sunshine. Encore residents also benefit from being located in the heart of a vibrant neighborhood filled with shops, restaurants, and community events within walking distance.
Another fun summer goal is trying a new hobby or revisiting an old favorite. Painting classes, gardening, crafting, music, and cooking activities are wonderful
ways to keep the mind engaged while encouraging creativity and social interaction. At Encore, residents are encouraged to stay involved through enriching activities tailored to their interests and abilities.
Summer is also a wonderful time to make memories with loved ones. Plan family visits, enjoy community festivals, host an ice cream social, or simply gather for conversations on the porch with neighbors and friends. Social connection is incredibly important for emotional wellness, and even small moments of togetherness can make a lasting impact.
For seniors looking to stay mentally sharp, creating a reading list, learning technology skills, joining trivia games, or participating in wellness programs are excellent ways to exercise the brain while having fun. Encore at Avalon Park believes every resident deserves opportunities to continue learning, growing, and enjoying life to the fullest.
This summer, make it a goal to stay active, connected, and inspired. Whether it’s enjoying a peaceful walk, attending a local event, or sharing laughter with friends, every experience helps create a meaningful and vibrant lifestyle.
To learn more about our welcoming community and resident-centered approach to assisted living and memory care, visit EncoreAtAvalonPark.com
LEARN
Why Volunteering As A Teen Matters
By: The East Orlando Youth Advisory Board Member, Kristina Pakholok
When you think about volunteering, you may picture going to schools, community centers, or outdoor events, helping with setting up or taking down supplies, assisting staff, and logging volunteer hours. You map out a few hours of your day, show up, complete the task, leave, and move on. For many teens, volunteering can feel like just another item to check off a list for school requirements, resumes, or college applications. However, volunteering is so much more than that.
Volunteering is not just about going, doing, leaving, and logging hours. It is about meeting new people, forming connections, empowering others, and learning more about yourself and the world around you. Through volunteering, teens gain real-life experiences that cannot be taught in a classroom. It pushes teens outside of their comfort zones and helps them discover strengths they may not have realized they had.
One of the biggest benefits of volunteering as a teen is the opportunity for personal growth. When teens volunteer, they develop important life skills such as communication, teamwork, leadership, problemsolving, and responsibility. These skills are not only useful now but will also benefit them in future careers, education, and relationships. Volunteering teaches teens how to work with people from different backgrounds, cultures, and age groups, helping them build empathy and understanding. Volunteering also has a powerful impact on mental and emotional well-being. Studies have shown that volunteering can boost mood, increase self-confidence, and reduce stress. Helping others gives teens a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Knowing that your time and effort made a positive difference in someone else’s life can bring pride and joy. It reminds teens that they matter and that their actions have value. This sense of fulfillment can be especially important during adolescence, a time when many teens struggle with
self-identity and confidence.
In addition, volunteering opens doors to new friendships and meaningful connections. Teens often meet people who share similar passions and values, which can lead to lasting friendships and mentorships. These connections can provide support, encouragement, and guidance, helping teens feel less alone. Volunteering also introduces teens to new opportunities they may not have considered before, such as career paths, leadership roles, or continued community involvement.
Beyond personal benefits, volunteering allows teens to give back to their communities. Teens play an important role in shaping the future, and volunteering gives them a chance to contribute in a meaningful way. Whether it’s helping younger children, supporting local events, or assisting community organizations, teens learn the importance of service and responsibility. Volunteering shows teens that positive change often starts with small actions.
As the saying goes, “The kindness you put out into the world always has a way of coming back to you” (Dhar Mann). When teens volunteer, they not only uplift others but also inspire those around them. One teen’s involvement can encourage other teens to step forward and get involved as well. This creates a ripple effect of kindness, connection, learning, and growth within the community.
Overall, volunteering as a teen is more than just earning hours — it is about growth, impact, and connection. It helps teens build confidence, develop skills, form meaningful relationships, and make a difference in the world. By choosing to volunteer, teens give their time to serve others while also investing in their own future. Volunteering allows teens to shine, lead, and become the best versions of themselves while creating a stronger, more caring community for everyone.
Volunteers make moments of growth, connection, and confidence possible for the teens we serve. If you want to be part of creating those experiences, we’d love to have you join our volunteer community at L.O.V.E. Our Youth.
From Teen Lounge activities to community events, our volunteers help shape the supportive, welcoming environment where teens learn new skills, discover their strengths, and feel seen. Your time and presence truly matter.
To explore volunteer opportunities or learn how you can support youth in East Orlando, visit loveouryouth. org/get-involved or follow us on Instagram @ loveouryouth.
LEARN
Summer Bucket List: Unplug, Explore
Somewhere between the television, cell phones, notifications, streaming services, and busy schedules, summer started feeling a little too rushed. Days fly by, hours disappear scrolling on our phones, and before we know it another season has passed.
This summer, maybe the goal is not to post every moment… maybe it is to actually live it.
Summer does not have to be filled with expensive vacations or perfectly planned events to be meaningful. Sometimes the moments we remember most are the simple ones — laughing during a family game night, taking a last-minute road trip, watching the sunset at the beach, making homemade popsicles in the kitchen, or
sitting outside listening to music while the world slows down for a little while.
This summer, challenge yourself to unplug a little more, explore a little further, and create memories that last longer than a social media post. Whether you are a kid, teen, parent, grandparent, or someone simply looking for a fresh reset, this bucket list is for everyone.
Explore Somewhere New
One of the best parts of summer is discovering places you have never noticed before. Sometimes adventure is not far away at all.
Take a drive to a small Florida town you have never explored. Visit a local farmers market. Spend the day at the beach collecting shells instead of checking emails. Walk a nature trail and actually listen to the sounds around you. Watch a sunrise or sunset without picking up your phone to record it.
Florida is full of hidden gems, outdoor adventures, local festivals, and beautiful spaces that remind us to slow down and enjoy where we are. Summer is the perfect time to become a tourist in your own city and experience something new with fresh eyes.
Create Simple Moments
Not every summer memory has to be big to matter. Some of the most meaningful moments happen right at home.
Have a backyard picnic. Pull out old board games and declare a no-screen night. Start a summer scrapbook or memory jar where everyone writes down favorite moments throughout the season. Read a book outside instead of indoors. Write postcards to family or friends just because. Make homemade ice cream or try a recipe you have never made before.
These little traditions often become the moments people remember years later. In a world that moves quickly, creating intentional time together matters more than ever.
& Make
Try Something Creative
Memories
Summer is also a great time to step outside of routines and try something creative just for fun.
Take photos of your favorite summer moments. Paint something messy. Learn a new hobby. Create a playlist that becomes the soundtrack of your summer. Cook a new recipe, start journaling, try crafting, or finally begin that project you have been putting off.
Creativity does not have to be perfect to be meaningful. Sometimes creating simply gives us a chance to slow down, express ourselves, and reconnect with joy in a way that feels refreshing and real.
Most Important…
Do something this summer that makes you completely forget to check your phone.
Those are usually the moments that matter most.
The late-night conversations.
The laughter during game night.
The sandy feet after the beach.
The spontaneous road trip.
The music playing with the windows down.
The quiet moments watching the sunset.
The memories that never needed a filter to feel special.
Summer does not need to look perfect to be unforgettable. Sometimes the best moments are the unplanned ones that simply make us feel present, connected, and alive.
So this season, unplug a little more, laugh a little louder, and make this a summer worth remembering.
Creatively Influenced Corner
At Creatively Influenced, the mission is to inspire creativity, confidence, learning, and meaningful connection for all ages. From literacy and creative workshops to technology and community engagement, summer is the perfect reminder that learning and creativity can happen anywhere , not just inside a classroom.
Families with children ages 0–5 can also check out summer Storytime videos during June and July on the Creatively Influenced YouTube page for fun read-aloud moments and early literacy activities at home.
And coming this August, join me for LIVE Storytime events filled with stories, creativity, learning, and fun for little learners and families throughout the community.
Creatively Influenced You Tube Channel www.youtube.com/@CreativelyInfluencedLearning
Official link to You Tube will go live on June 1 https://youtu.be/wIqSEuv-jNQ
WORK
The Summer Slowdown Myth: Why Q3 Is the Best Time to Get Focused
Every June, a familiar story starts circulating in business circles: summer is slow. Clients go quiet. Deals stall. People check out. If you are a freelancer, solopreneur, or small business owner, you have probably heard it and maybe even believed it a time or two.
Here is the truth: the slowdown is real for people who let it happen. For everyone else, Q3 is one of the most productive stretches of the year.
The Myth Has a Grain of Truth
Summer does shift the rhythm of business. School’s out, vacations are scheduled, and the general pace of life loosens up. Decisionmakers are harder to reach. That part is accurate. But the mistake is treating a slower pace like a signal to stop moving altogether. The entrepreneurs who use Q3 strategically are the ones who show up in September ahead of the curve with systems tightened, relationships deepened, and goals already in motion.
What Actually Happens to Focused Business Owners in Summer
While the competition coasts, focused owners do the work that gets crowded out the rest of the year. They revisit their business plan. They build the pitch deck they have been putting off. They launch the side project, explore a new revenue stream, or finally get their brand story straight. Summer creates breathing room. The question is whether you fill it with intention or drift.
The challenge, especially for remote workers and freelancers, is that summer makes it easy to blur the line between rest and avoidance. Without structure, a slow week can quietly become a slow month.
Why Environment Matters More in Q3
This is where your workspace earns its value. A dedicated, professional environment does something that a home office or coffee shop cannot always deliver: it tells your brain it is time to work. That mental signal is powerful, especially when the season is pulling in the opposite direction.
The 5th Floor Orlando, located in the heart of Downtown Avalon Park, is built for exactly this kind of focused momentum. Members have access to private offices, dedicated desks, coworking space, and fully equipped meeting rooms, all inside a professional setting with high-speed Wi-Fi and a front-desk presence that keeps your workday grounded. Being around other driven professionals has a way of raising your own standard, even on the days when motivation is harder to find.
And this summer, getting started costs a little less. The 5th Floor is offering 15% off rental spaces for the season. No need to wait to claim the environment your work deserves.
Summer in East Orlando does not have to mean stalled progress. It can mean getting clearer, moving faster, and building the foundation for a strong close to the year.
Q3 is yours if you decide it is.
Schedule a tour at the5thfloor.com/orlando or call 407-730-3493 to lock in your summer rate before spots fill.
Lori Williams Brings Home Helpers Home Care to Avalon Park
Avalon Park, FL – Lori Williams, an experienced leader and active volunteer, is thrilled to be serving her community in a new way through her new in-home care business, Home Helpers Home Care of Avalon Park.
Home Helpers Home Care of Avalon Park offers the industry’s leading model for comprehensive care with its unique care program, Cared4SM, which ensures clients receive comprehensive care in four key areas: Personal Care and Companionship, Nutrition and Meal Planning, 24/7 Emergency Response, and Wellness Calls. Williams and her team work with families and clients in Avalon Park, Eagle Creek, East Orlando, Orlando and the surrounding areas.
“I am committed to delivering compassionate, highquality companion care services to families in the Central Florida community. My mission is rooted in service, dignity, and providing trusted care solutions that support independence and well-being,” Williams said.
Williams is a seasoned operations and governance executive with more than 15 years of leadership experience in the financial services and insurance industry. In those roles, she built a reputation for driving high-impact results, including the development of national shared services organizations, optimization of complex operational processes, and implementation of governance frameworks that enhance performance and accountability. She’s looking forward to bringing that focus on quality and effectiveness to her role as the owner of Home Helpers Home Care of Avalon Park.
“I spent 35 years in corporate America and did very well, but I’ve always prioritized living a life of service. My husband and I decided we were at a stage of our lives when we could take the opportunity to open a company that spoke to that service and work toward building a legacy for our family and our community. I’m excited to be launching Home Helpers Home Care here in Avalon Park,” Williams said.
Williams is also an active community leader and advocate for women’s advancement. She serves on the board of the Women’s Executive Council (WEC) of Orlando, where she works directly with scholarship fellows and leads initiatives that expand access to education and career opportunities for women. She also volunteers with Better, Wiser, Stronger, an organization focused on helping underprivileged young men with career readiness. Williams is no stranger to caregiving. In fact, her motherin-law was a retired nurse and her parents owned a business that housed and provided care for clients.
“I want people to know that I’m not just another home
health care agency coming to town – I am invested in every aspect of this community. In addition to the work I do with our clients and my volunteerism, I’ll be supporting our caregivers with professional training, helping with soft skills, providing financial literacy and more. We want to make a difference for our employees and we know that, if they feel supported, they’ll provide better support for our clients,” Williams said.
Families seeking reliable, professional in-home care can call Home Helpers for a free in-home consultation and safety assessment to determine the best care plan for their loved one. Home Helpers ensures that caregivers are fully trained, background checked, and matched to clients based on individual needs.
For more information about how Home Helpers can serve you and your family, call 407-863-0193, email LWilliams@ HomeHelpersHomeCare.com or visit https:// homehelpershomecare.com/avalon-park-fl/.
ABOUT HOME HELPERS HOME CARE
Since 1997, Home Helpers® Home Care has provided exceptional in-home care to seniors and others. With independently owned and operated offices in more than 1,000 communities across the United States, we are committed to supporting the dignity and independence of the families we serve. Learn more at HomeHelpersHomeCare.com. For franchising information, visit HomeHelpersFranchise.com.
Contact: Lori Williams
Phone: 407-863-0193
Email: Lwilliams@HomeHelpersHomeCare.com
PLAY
Going Back in Time: Retro Summer Rewind at the Marketplace at Avalon Park
The Marketplace at Avalon Park is bringing summer events from way, way back with Retro Summer Rewind 2026. From live music to retro game nights, these summer events will celebrate all things nostalgia, designed to be a little bit of everything. Every event is open to the community and will all take place at the Marketplace at Avalon Park. Come as you are, have a great time with Turn Up Tuesdays from 6 to 8 pm, or take the stage on Throwback Karaoke nights. Stay active with retro workouts at the Avalon Park gym, movie nights, and game nights that will bring out everyone’s competitive side. No matter how you like to spend your summer, there is a spot for you in this lineup.
The Marketplace is going full retro to kickstart our Summer Retro Rewind series. Come ready to dance and show out at Disco at Sunset. Beat the heat with Pepe’s Cantina exclusive drink menu to keep everyone cool on the dance floor. The party takes place on June 5th from 7 to 9 p.m.
Every decade has brought something worth revisiting (and teaching the next generations about). Keep an eye out for retro CD backdrops popping up around Avalon Park and if you still have some you have been hanging on to, we are accepting donations to use for the backdrops! There will be a collection box at the Marketplace and the Avalon Park Gym now through June 30th to drop your old CDs in so we can repurpose them!
There are so many events coming and no two will ever feel the same. Avalon Park is a neighborhood built with community in mind and the Marketplace is an extension of that same philosophy. The whole
point of Retro Summer Rewind is to give neighbors a reason to get to know each other. To connect with new people and make new memories together.
The Avalon Park Arts & Culture Community brings art nights to the Marketplace With a full summer of throwbacks on the calendar, the Avalon Park Arts & Culture Community is bringing classic art events to the Marketplace. Every second and last Wednesday of the month there will be an artmaking experience on site. Come along and grab a bite while making friendship bracelets or having Bob Ross teach you how to paint happy little trees.
Kicking off the art programming for June is NEON FEVER, a glow in the dark paint and sip event on June 10th from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at the Marketplace at Avalon Park. Tickets are $15 per person. Come ready to glow.
If neon is not quite your vibe, the Polaroid Craft Night on June 24th is worth putting on the calendar. Materials are provided and tickets are $10 per person. Bring your own Polaroid or snap a shot with the retro backdrops available at the Marketplace.
More programming is still on the way. Follow the Marketplace at Avalon Park on social media @MarketplaceAtAvalonPark and check the event calendar at MarketplaceAtAvalonPark.com to stay up to date on the full Retro Summer Rewind schedule, ticket information and announcements as they drop. Summer is just getting started!
DINING
Coming together to create a healthy community
ARTS & CULTURE CORNER
COMMUNITY CORNER
Putting Mission into Action: Goodwill Leaders Serve Central Florida During Goodwill Week
In recognition of Goodwill Week (May 3-9), leaders at Goodwill Industries of Central Florida stepped away from their desks on May 7 to serve alongside fellow nonprofits. About a dozen team members volunteered on a home build with Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando and Osceola, while another group supported operations at Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida by sorting and packing food for distribution. The day of service reflects Goodwill’s mission of “Building Lives that Work” by putting leadership into action to strengthen the broader community.
Goodwill Celebrates Project COMPASS Graduates
Goodwill Industries of Central Florida recently hosted a graduation reception honoring three students who successfully completed the Project COMPASS program, a partnership with Orange County Public Schools that helps at-risk teens finish high school while gaining workforce and life skills. The May 14 celebration recognized the students’ perseverance ahead of their official graduation ceremony on May 21. Goodwill has partnered with OCPS for more than a decade to offer students and educators a space within the nonprofit’s South OBT campus for personalized instruction, mentorship and hands-on work experience.
Fifth Third Surprises 67 Orlando-area Families with College Savings Plans
New parents of babies born on 5/3 received $1,053 college savings vouchers
On Sunday, 67 families in the Orlando area welcomed “Fifth Third Babies” born on Fifth Third Day (5/3) and received a special surprise from Fifth Third: a $1,053 contribution toward their newborn’s 529 college savings plan.
In addition to a $1,053 Gift of College voucher, each family also received a care package with baby essentials. Labor & delivery care team members at each participating hospital also received tokens of appreciation from Fifth Third.
May 3 (5/3 on the calendar) is a day celebrated by Fifth Third annually with community service and giving activities across the nation. This year it was Orlando’s turn to celebrate. Since 2017, Fifth Third Babies has provided $733,000 in college-savings support to families across more than 135 hospitals in eleven cities.
“Fifth Third Day - May 3 - is a day we celebrate across the nation by showing up for our communities in meaningful ways,” said Scott Daigle, Fifth Third Regional President. “Supporting Orlando-area families on one of the most important days of their lives is a small but powerful way we can help invest in a brighter future for the next generation.”
Added Joshua Montemayor, Chief Operating Officer at Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies: “At Orlando Health, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality care for our newest arrivals and their families from the very first moment. This generous collaboration with Fifth Third Bank allows us to extend that care even further into the future. By investing in the long-term success of our ‘May 3rd babies’ across Winnie Palmer Hospital, Lake Mary Hospital, and South Lake Hospital, Fifth Third Bank is helping us provide these families with a head start on a
bright and promising educational path.”
Fifth Third Babies also took place this year at hospitals in Cincinnati, Chicago, Detroit and Nashville – welcoming a total of 222 babies (including those from Orlando). Across Fifth Third’s 15-state footprint, employees will also mark “Fifth Third Day” through volunteerism and giving activities beginning May 4 and extending throughout the month.
From May 3-29, families nationwide can enter for a chance to win one of 53 $1,053 Gift of College vouchers through a public social media sweepstakes. Winners will be selected on 529 Day, or May 29 on the calendar. More information and full sweepstakes rules are available online at 53.com/babies.
About Fifth Third
Fifth Third is a bank that’s as long on innovation as it is on history. Since 1858, we’ve been helping individuals, families, businesses and communities grow through smart financial services that improve lives. Our list of firsts is extensive, and it’s one that continues to expand as we explore the intersection of tech-driven innovation, dedicated people and focused community impact. Fifth Third is one of the few U.S.-based banks to have been named among Ethisphere’s World’s Most Ethical Companies® for several years. With a commitment to taking care of our customers, employees, communities and shareholders, our goal is not only to be the nation’s highest performing regional bank, but to be the bank people most value and trust.
Fifth Third Bank, National Association is a federally chartered institution. Fifth Third Bancorp is the indirect parent company of Fifth Third Bank and its common stock is traded on the NASDAQ® Global Select Market under the symbol “FITB.” Investor information and press releases can be viewed at www.53.com. Deposit and credit products provided by Fifth Third Bank, National Association. Member FDIC.
Senior Resource Alliance and Renacer Foundation Distribute Free Hurricane Supplies
More than 200 Central Floridians are ready for the upcoming hurricane season thanks to Senior Resource Alliance and the Renacer Foundation. The nonprofits recently gave away free emergency preparedness kits to Hurricane Ian victims who are 65 or older. Much of
the aging population is still feeling the impacts of the 2022 storm, which caused more than $109 billion in damage across the state. Seniors at the distribution event in Orlando received multiple storm supplies, including a cooling fan, portable charger and batteries.
Quest, Inc. Raises Half a Million Dollars During Record-Breaking Wine Quest
Central Florida nonprofit Quest, Inc. is celebrating raising $500,000 to help people with developmental disabilities live full lives. In May, the organization hosted its 30th annual Wine Quest in partnership
with Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits at the Caribe Royale Orlando – where more than 800 people enjoyed wine and spirit tastings, silent and live auctions, and a multi-course meal. Proceeds from the two-
night signature fundraiser directly support Quest programs such as children’s therapy and education, employment training and placement, residential communities, life-skills training and summer camp experiences.
COMMUNITY
BANKING
Fairwinds Credit Union 12800 Tanja King Blvd. 407-515-3054 Fairwinds.org
Trustco Bank 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 101 407-380-2264 TrustcoBank.com
DINING
A-AKI Sushi & Steakhouse
3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 100 (407) 282-8488 aakiavalon.com
Almafi 12001 Avalon Lake Drive, Ste. A almafiavalonpark.com
Avalon Pockets 3564 Avalon Park E Blvd. #2 Avalon-Pockets.com
Bamboo Wok 3464 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 105 407-282-9399
Black Hawk Social Club 12001 Avalon Lake Drive, Ste. F 321-247-5009 blackhawksocialclub.com
Bowigens Beer Co. Marketplace, Ste. 120 3801 Avalon Park East Blvd. bowigens.com
Cafe Coqui 3819 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-459-6762 cafecoquiorlando.com
Chabuca Avalon Park 12001 Avalon Lake Drice, Ste. H chabucacuisine.com
Cheese To Share Marketplace, Ste. 150 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. facebook.com/cheesetoshare/
Ferratti’s Artisan Pizza and Pasta Marketplace 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd.
Mangia Avalon Park 3831 Avalon Park E Blvd. mangiavalonpark.com
Marketplace At Avalon Park 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. (407) 730-3515 MarketplaceAtAvalonPark.com
Nuno’s Cafe 12001 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. E 407930-3080 nunoscafe.com
Oh So Sweet Avalon Marketplace 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd.
Pepe’s Cantina Express 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 100 pepescantina.com
Pesaro’s Pizzeria & Ristorante 3464 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 108 407-286-5968 pesarosavalonpark.com
Pizza Hut 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 102 407-282-4999 pizzahut.com
Business Directory
Pho Akaushi 3891 Avalon Park E Blvd. 321-270-8888
Restō Argentinian Kitchen
Marketplace 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. restourbankitchen.com
Satori Sushi and Snow Ice Marketplace 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. satorisushisnowice@gmail.com
South Philly Steaks
12001 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. B 407988-3400 southphillysteaksorlando.com
Subway 3548 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 2 407-382-6218 subway.com
The Bakery Colombian Cafe 13001 Founder’s Sq Dr. Ste. 100 BakeryColombianCafe.com
Yumfinity / StreetNOMS
Marketplace 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
AdventHealth Family & Internal Medicine at Avalon Park 3701 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 205 407-303-6285 AdventHealth.com
AMP Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery 3861 Avalon Park E Blvd.
A New Path Counseling Tanja Alvarado 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 2021 407-902-9250 anewpathcounsel.com
Avalon Park Eye Care 12001 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. J 407-567-9955 avalonparkeyecare.com
Avalon Park Gym & Wellness Center 12001 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. M-P 407-988-3884 avalonparkgym.com
Avalon Family Vet 3520 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 3 407-275-3430 avalonfamilyvet.com
Avalon Woman’s Health Center 3718 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-453-2072 womanshealthcenters.com/avalon-park
BellaSmiles Orthodontics 12001 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. K 407.680-3197 bellasmilesortho.com
CVS Pharmacy 13000 Tanja King Blvd. 407-273-7618 cvs.com
Delphini Solutions Psychology Elaine D. Kring, Ph.D., LMHC, NCC
3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 2028 321-947-8170 delphini-solutions-psychology. square.site/
Elite Dentistry
13000 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. 201 407-658-0103 elitedentistry.com
Ellie Mental Health
3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 301 elliementalhealth.com
F45 Training 12001 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. C 407-454-6323 f45training.com/avalonpark/ home
Inara Medicine
3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste 200 407-900-9770 inaramedicine.com
Mindscope Clinic
3680 Avalon Park E Blvd, Ste 203 321-340-3038 mindscopeclinic.com
NeuroRestorative 3701 Avalon Park W Blvd.Ste. 100 321-354-0023 neurorestorative.com
Orlando Counseling Specialists Nancy Johnson, MA, LMHC 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 2021 321-430-8671
Orlando Health Physician Associates 3464 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-635-3434
Paving the Way Foundation 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd, Ste 230 pavingthewayfoundation.org
Sage Dental of Avalon Park 12990 Tanja King Blvd. 407-499-8647 mysagedental.com
Stone Crossing Dental Care 3502 Avalon Park W Blvd. 407-374-2480 dentalcareatavalonpark.com
Sunshine Ankle & Foot Experts 3701 Avalon Park W Blvd. Ste. 225 (407) 863-3655 sunshineankleandfoot.com
Therapy Essentials Inc. 12930 Tanja King Blvd. 407-249-3344 tetherapy.com
The Skin Attic 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 300 theskinattic.com
Total Life Counseling 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 210 407-447-7600 totallifecounseling.com/east-orlando
LEARNING
All-Star Dance Company 12001 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. D 407-278-9329 allstardancecompany.com
Avalon Driving School 3801 Avalon Park East Blvd. 2nd floor, Ste. 530 www.avalondriving.com
Avalon Elementary School 13500 Tanja King Blvd. 407-207-3825 avalones.ocps.net
Avalon Middle School 13914 Mailer Blvd. 407-207-7839 avalonmiddle.ocps.net
Avalon Park Kids R Kids 12881 Tanja King Blvd. 407-306-9035 kidsrkidsorlando.com
Avalon School of Music 12946 Tanja King Blvd. 407-770-0323 avalonschoolofmusic.com
Championship Martial Arts 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 104 407-275-1700 championshipma.com
Creative World School 3625 Avalon Park W Blvd. 407-275-0000 creativeworldschool.com
Engenius Learning of Avalon Park 3714 Avalon Park E Blvd 844-564-3648 engeniuslearning.com
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Orlando 3873 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-990-2907 gjjorlando.com
International Home Education Inc. 12001 Avalon Lake Drive, Ste E1 407-205-8445 inthomeeducation.com
Orange Technical College 2201 South Crown Hill Blvd. 407-622-2900 orangetechcollege.net
Pinecrest Academy 13993 Mailer Blvd. 407-432-5441 pinecrestavalonk5.com
Primrose School 13461 Tanja King Blvd. 407-737-1500 primroseavalonpark.com
Simply Speaking 3564 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-737-2023 simplyspeakingcentralflorida.com
Stone Lakes Elementary 15200 Stoneybrook Blvd. 407-207-7793 stonelakeses.ocps.net
Timber Creek High School 1001 Avalon Park Blvd. 321-235-7800 tchs.ocps.net
LIVING
Avalon Park Property Owners Association 13401 Tanja King Blvd. 407-249-9395
avalonmanager@lelandmanagement.com AvalonParkPOA.com
Encore at Avalon Park Assisted Living and Memory Care 13798 Cygnus Dr. 407-270-7500
EncoreAtAvalonPark.com
Millenium Realty Group Inc
4031 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-277-1400 milleniumrealtygroup.com
Parkside at Avalon Park 13300 Tanja King Blvd. Ste. 122 407-866-1015
ParksideAtAvalonPark.com
Real Estate Pros 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 200 407-381-7861
RealEstateProsFL.com
RC Realty Group 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 2070 407-309-9155
RE/MAX Innovation
3742 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-281-1053
Selective Realty Group 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd, Ste. 200 407-627-1727 SelectiveRealtyGroup.com
The Flats at Avalon Park 12001 Avalon Lake Drive, Ste . L 407-273-4337 theflatsatavalonpark.com
Top Florida Homes 12950 Tanja King Blvd. 321-287-3913 TopFloridaHomes.com
NON-PROFIT
Avalon Park Foundation 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 400 407-658-6565 AvalonParkFoundation.org
Avalon Park Arts & Culture Center (APGF) 13013 Founder’s Square Dr. Goodwill Donation Xpress 3520 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 4-5 407-857-0659 goodwillcfl.org
L.O.V.E. Our Youth, Inc. 13013 Founder’s Square Drive 321-252-8002 loveouryouth.org
Non-Profit Enthusiast 13000 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. 207 (833) 959-7446 nonprofitenthusiast.com
We the Women Movement 3280 Avalon Park East Blvd, Ste. 201 407-694-7641 wethewomanmovement.com
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Adaptive Consulting Engineers 12922 Tanja King Blvd. 407-506-5593 adaptivece.com
Avalon Insurance Services 13013 Michael Callin Alley 407-308-0962 avaloninsuranceservices.com
Avalon Mail Center 3564 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. B204 407-482-0662 AvalonMailCenter.com
Avalon Park Funeral and Cremation Services
3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 330 407-914-6583 avalonfuneralservices.com
Avalon Park Group 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 400 407-658-6565 avalonparkgroup.com
Avalon Park Cleaners
3588 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. B201A 407-277-3335 AvalonParkCleaners.com
Cage Fitness 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 201 877-650-2243 cagefitness.com
Captivea USA 4031 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-982-7007 captivea.com
Central Nails Avalon Park 3548 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 1 407-275-2300
Cognitive Performance Group 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 205 407-282-4433 cpg-online.com
Complete Pools
3588 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-704-1285 complete-pools.com
CPA Solutions
3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 350A 407-650-9088 mycpasolutions.com
Data Transfer Solutions, LLC 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 200 407-382-5222 dtsgis.com
DBSS, Inc.
3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 2072 321-251-6006 dbssinc.com
Definitive Beauty Med & Wellness Spa 3720 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 301 407-319-5378
Diana Gonzalez, LLC 13000 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. 302
Dolce E Luce Beauty Salon 12926 Tanja King Blvd. 407-451-7828 info@dolceelucesalon.com
EA Insurance 12001 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. I eainsurances.com
Eye Create Her 3855 Avalon Park E Blvd eyecreateher.com
Fairway Independent Mortgage Ashley Thalmueller 12938 Tanja King Blvd. 407-469-5052 ashleythalmuellermortgage.com
Florida Merchant Services 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 206 888-490-7480 floridamerchant1.com
Fluttering Shutters Photography 3730 Avalon Park E Blvd 321-278-8408 flutteringshuttersphotography. com
Goosehead Insurance
3680 Avalon Park E Blvd, Ste 205
Groom Grub Belly Rub 3702 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-277-7387 groomgrub.com
Ingenium Staffing 13000 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. 301
In Style Hair, Nails & Day Spa 3843 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-736-1278 instylehairorlando.com
Integrity International Brokers 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 212 407-408-0176 Int-Brokers.com
Just Blade Barbershop 3726 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-930-6636
Kossina Creative Photography 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 220 407-310-3447 KossinaCreative.com
Let’s Roof 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 350 letsroofusa.com
Level Up Automation 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 310 LevelUpAutomationFlorida.com
Mad Barbers Avalon Park 3564 Avalon Park E Blvd, Ste. 3 407-270-8286 themadbarbers.org
McQuantum Funding 13000 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. 303 mcquantumfunding.com
Milton Figueroa Law, PA 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd, Ste. 303 (407) 745-0893 mjfpa.com
Nails Spa Avalon Park 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste.105 407-249-4060
NT Avalon 12001 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. L
NY Barber Shop II 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 103 407-412-6900
Orlando Divorce Planning 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 350 407-707-9020 OrlandoDivorcePlanning.com
Patricia P. Barber, M.S. 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 2026 407-767-8854 patriciapbarber.com
Partner Claim Services 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd, Ste 206 partnerclaims.com
Polo Floors & Polo Palm Paint 3742 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-988-3361 polohomeimprovement.com
Quantified Design Solutions 13000 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. 205 quantifieddesign.com
Raymond James 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 350B 407-278-5051 OrlandoAdvisors.com
Rosenthal Meyer PLLC 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 300 407-504-9725 RosenthalMeyer.com
Safe Harbor Counseling & Advocacy3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 302 safeharborfl.com
Servpro 13000 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. 208
Solymar Travel 13001 Founder’s Sq. Ste. 150 407-203-5000 SolymarTravels.com
The Apartment King 12934 Tanja King Blvd. 321-275-5464 theaptking.com
The 5th Floor Orlando 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 200 407-730-3493 the5thfloor.com
The Ruggieri Law Firm, P.A. 13000 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. 305 407-395-4766 ruggierilawfirm.com
Vanguard Leadership Institute 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 208 407-227-1384
Vision Development & Management 12954 Tanja King Blvd. visiondandm.com
The White Agency, Inc. 12954 Tanja King Blvd. 407-401-7095 thewhiteagencyinc.com
Yard 3 Technologies 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 2024 877-823-0342 yard3.com
100 Units 12934 Tanja King Blvd. 321-388-4394 100units.com
4K Wellness 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 310 4kwellness.com
SHOPPING & ENTERTAINMENT
Avalon General Store 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. AvalonGeneral.com
Avalon Liquor 3588 Avalon Park Blvd. Ste. 3 407-250-4847
Avalon Park Arts & Culture Center 13013 Founders Square Dr. AvalonArtsCenter.com
Avalon Park Jewelers 3710 Avalon Park E Blvd. 321-235-5553 avalonparkjewelers.com
Publix
3400 Avalon Park E Blvd. (407) 277-1043 publix.com
The Flowers Bouquet AP 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 115 407-371-0860 flowersbouquetandmorefl.com
Theory Bridal House 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 120 407-490-5118 theorybridalhouse.com
SPIRITUAL CENTERS
Avalon Church 13460 Tanja King Blvd. 407-275-5499 AvalonChurch.org
CrossLife Church East 13000 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. 301 CrossLifeEast.com
Second Harvest Food Bank Launches ‘Career Pathways’ Program, Expanding Workforce Training Beyond Culinary Industry
Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida is expanding its efforts to address a root cause of hunger with the launch of Career Pathways, an enhanced workforce training program designed to better prepare and connect more job seekers with indemand careers, reducing the number of people who need food assistance.
Building on the success of its long-running Culinary Training Program, Career Pathways introduces a second professional track focused on customer service – broadening access to employment opportunities across multiple industries. Since launching in 2013, the Culinary Training Program has helped more than 535 adults develop the skills needed for careers in food service, creating financial stability and economic mobility.
The newly structured program prepares participants for employment through skills training, career readiness support, and direct connections with local employers. Each cohort includes foundational
workplace skills such as time management, teamwork and communication, financial literacy and conflict resolution. The culinary track will continue to offer hands-on, specialized training in a commercial kitchen.
“Career Pathways reflects how we’re evolving to meet both our neighbors’ needs and the realities of today’s shifting job market,” said Derrick Chubbs, President and CEO at Second Harvest. “Not every job seeker is pursuing a career in culinary, but everyone deserves access to meaningful work. By expanding beyond a single industry, we can meet people where they are and connect more individuals to quality employment opportunities while helping them build the skills and confidence needed for long-term stability.”
Applications for Career Pathways are now open; the first customer service cohort begins on July 7. The next culinary cohort begins on August 3. For more information or to apply, visit FeedHopeNow.org/ CareerPathways.
Second Harvest’s Ultimate Garden Party Raises Over $370,000
Nearly 300 local hunger fighters recently came together to raise over $370,000 for Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. The funding generated at this year’s Ultimate Garden Party presented by Glenda G. Morgan Foundation and supported by CoreGiving will help provide 1.5 million meals for Central Floridians experiencing food insecurity.
On May 16, Ultimate Garden Party attendees enjoyed an afternoon filled with live music, craft cocktails, savory hors d’oeuvres and casino games at the Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek. Local merchants set up an exclusive Trunk Show and donated a portion of their sales to Second Harvest Food Bank.
As costs for food and other basic necessities continue to rise, more families are facing difficult decisions about household expenses each month. Second Harvest and its network of community feeding partners are seeing a sustained, elevated need for assistance across its seven-county service area.
“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who continues stepping up to support our neighbors facing hunger,” said Derrick Chubbs, President and CEO at Second Harvest. “The generosity shown through events like the Ultimate Garden Party helps ensure families, children and seniors across Central Florida can
access the nutritious food they need to thrive in their daily lives. This community’s support truly makes a difference.”
For more information about how to support Second Harvest Food Bank or to find assistance, visit FeedHopeNow.org.
About Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida (SHFBCF)
SHFBCF is a member of Feeding America – the largest charitable domestic hunger-relief organization in the United States. SHFBCF secures and distributes food and grocery products to more than 800 local nonprofit feeding partners throughout Central Florida. With the help of food and financial donors, volunteers and a caring, committed community, the food bank distributes 300,000 meals every day to a seven-county service area, which includes Brevard, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Seminole and Volusia. Feeding neighbors facing hunger is only the beginning. By investing in job training programs, advocating for access to nutritious foods, and inspiring our community to get involved, SHFBCF is leaning into the root causes of hunger and helping our neighbors thrive. With support from the Central Florida community, Second Harvest Food Bank is feeding inspiration, change, achievement, health — and families facing hunger. To learn more about SHFBCF, visit https://FeedHopeNow.org.
MEET THE CANDIDATES
Johanna López: A Life of Service, Resilience, and Impact
State Representative Johanna López’s life is defined by resilience, service, and a deep commitment to her community. A single mother of four, grandmother, and advisor to forprofit and nonprofit organizations, she is the proud daughter and mother of veterans and a survivor of domestic violence. Throughout her life and career, she has consistently broken barriers while creating opportunities for others. In 2017, she was named Orange County Teacher of the Year. She later made history as the first Latina elected to the Orange County School Board and, in 2022, was elected to represent District 43 in the Florida House of Representatives, where she was re-elected in 2024.
Known for her effectiveness and ability to work across the aisle, Representative López has championed legislation that protects families, strengthens communities, and expands opportunity. Her legislative work focuses on improving healthcare access in criticalneed areas, strengthening medical negligence accountability, protecting children and foster families, advancing animal welfare, and expanding pathways for students to earn their high school diplomas. She has also successfully passed legislation protecting immigrant families and advancing consumer policies that promote environmental sustainability and public wellbeing.
But Johanna López’s story goes far beyond titles, it is rooted in perseverance, service, and a lifelong commitment to lifting others.
Raised in public housing in Puerto Rico, Johanna learned early the importance of hard work, faith, and community. When she moved to Orlando,
she had already earned a master’s degree in education, yet like many families starting over, she took jobs at Orlando International Airport’s car wash and in a fast-food restaurant to support her family. Those experiences were not setbacks, but defining moments that deepened her understanding of the challenges working families face every day. She went on to serve more than two decades as an educator at Colonial High School, becoming a mentor and advocate for her students. Her dedication in the classroom earned her recognition as Orange County Teacher of the Year, an honor that reflected not only her impact on students, but her growing role as a leader within the community.
Throughout her career, Johanna has remained deeply engaged in community and national leadership. She currently serves on the Board of Trustees of the Orange County Realtors Foundation and as an Executive Board Member of the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators. She has also contributed her expertise through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Teacher Advisory Council and the Harvard Graduate School of Education’s Public Education Leadership Project.
Recently, Johanna received a significant international honor: the iChange Nations Donald D. Toldson, Sr. Life of Impact Award 2026. This recognition, presented within a global network spanning more than 150 countries, has been awarded to individuals across nations who
demonstrate a deep commitment to service, leadership, and meaningful impact. Recipients are nominated through a recommendation process, making it a meaningful and often unexpected honor, one she does not take lightly.
Now, Johanna López is continuing her commitment to service by running for Orange County Commissioner for District 4. Her campaign reflects strong grassroots support, having qualified for the ballot through petitions demonstrating broad, community-driven support for her candidacy.
Building Stronger Communities Through Engagement
By Brian Jones, Candidate for Orange County Commissioner – District 4
Strong communities are built on transparency, communication, trust, and leadership that remains engaged and accessible.
Throughout my years serving in Avalon Park and across Orange County — through nonprofit leadership, community boards, volunteer organizations, and public advocacy — I’ve learned one important truth: people want leaders who are accessible, proactive, and involved. Residents want to be informed. They want concerns acknowledged. They want follow-through. Most importantly, they want to know their voices matter.
Earlier this year, I started my Community Download series on LinkedIn to create conversations around the topics that directly impact our quality of life — safety, wellbeing, economic development, community engagement, volunteerism, and collaboration. These conversations matter because strong communication creates stronger communities. Hands-on leadership means more than attending meetings. It means listening to residents, understanding concerns firsthand, and being willing to act before problems become larger challenges.
In March, I wrote an Avalon Park Sun article focused on e-scooter safety and awareness in support of Brain Injury Awareness Month. As e-scooters and e-bikes continue growing in popularity, I felt it was important to help bring attention to the need for education, safer pathways, awareness, and proactive engagement throughout our communities and schools. This effort led to the creation of the R.I.D.E. Responsibility Initiative — a simple reminder focused on promoting safe riding habits, awareness, and injury prevention for young riders and families. These types of initiatives are important because community safety requires both leadership and collaboration.
As a servant leader, I’ve invested significant time and energy into initiatives focused on safety, awareness, and proactive community engagement. Crime prevention and
community well-being are deeply connected. Communities that are engaged, connected, and informed are often safer, stronger, and more resilient. When neighbors know one another, residents feel empowered to communicate concerns, and leadership maintains transparency and open dialogue, trust grows naturally — and stronger communities follow.
Transparency and proactive communication are essential in today’s fast-moving world. Too often, frustration grows when people feel disconnected from decisions or unaware of what is happening around them. Whether in local government, community associations, schools, or nonprofits, communication should never be reactive only after problems arise. The best leadership creates opportunities for ongoing engagement and collaboration before issues escalate.
Mental health and emotional well-being are also important parts of building healthy communities. During Mental Health Awareness Month in May, many important conversations took place surrounding stress, isolation, anxiety, and emotional wellness. As we now enter June’s Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, it serves as another reminder that community support systems matter deeply for families, caregivers, seniors, and residents facing life’s challenges.
Sometimes leadership simply means being present, listening carefully, and creating environments where people feel supported and connected. Real progress happens when leaders stay connected to the people they serve and remain willing to roll up their sleeves to help move communities forward together.
As a community leader, advocate, and candidate for Orange County Commissioner District 4 – I’m committed to building a stronger community together. Every great community starts with you.
Follow my “Community Download” series on LinkedIn for continued conversations focused on leadership, engagement, and community well-being.