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July in Avalon Park Wesley Chapel: A Month of Art, Celebration, and Community
Summer is in full swing, and Avalon Park Wesley Chapel is celebrating with a vibrant lineup of events that bring together creativity, family fun, and patriotic spirit. Whether you are looking to explore your artistic side, support local vendors, or join in on the annual Fourth of July festivities, there is something happening for everyone this month.
The excitement kicks off with a creative spark as the Art Snacks workshop series continues every Tuesday through August 12th. These hands-on sessions are designed for ages 12 and up and explore various artistic mediums, including oil painting and charcoal. Hosted at The Flats at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel’s leasing office, Art Snacks runs from 6:30 to 8:30 PM and includes all materials for just $25 per session.
Of course, the centerpiece of July is the Fourth of July Celebration, set for Friday, July 4th, from 5:00 to 9:00 PM in Downtown Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. This highly anticipated event offers an evening full of community activities, ending with a stunning firework display over the town center at 9:00 PM. Early in the evening, families can take part in the patriotic Bike Parade, where participants decorate their bicycles, strollers, or wagons in red, white, and blue. Registration begins at 6:45 PM, and the parade steps off at 7:00 PM.
For those who love a sweet competition, the annual Apple Pie Bake-Off invites bakers to bring their best homemade pies for judging between 5:00 and 6:00
PM. Winners will be announced on stage at 7:30 PM, with cash prizes awarded to the top entries.
New this year is the Children’s Entrepreneur Market, where young entrepreneurs ages 5 to 17 can showcase and sell their handmade products and business ideas from 5:00 to 9:00 PM. It is a great way to encourage creativity, confidence, and a little business savvy in the next generation.
Throughout the evening, families can also enjoy a full Bounce Park, a diverse selection of food trucks, live community performances, and a Vendors filled with local artisans and businesses. The night wraps up with a community-wide fireworks finale that brings neighbors together to celebrate our nation’s independence.
The festivities continue later in the week with the Downtown Saturday Market on Saturday, July 5th, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. This monthly favorite features local produce, artisan goods, handmade crafts, and live music by Jamie O. It is the perfect way to support local small businesses while enjoying a relaxed morning in the heart of downtown.
From patriotic traditions to creative expression, July at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel is a celebration of community and connection. Whether you are returning to a favorite event or joining us for the first time, we invite you to come out and enjoy all that makes this community truly special.
For more information on events and how to get involved, visit: AvalonParkWesleyChapel.com.
Happy Independence Day
States and Switzerland home. In Switzerland, our national “birthday” is on August 1st, while here in Avalon Park and across the U.S., we celebrate on July 4th.
This double celebration serves as a constant reminder of how blessed we are to live in free countries. Whether in the U.S. or Switzerland, freedom is a foundational value we should never take for granted.
It is amazing to see how similar the US and Switzerland are. Both embrace direct democracy, where the people have “the last say.” In fact, the Swiss political system is what inspired in part the American model. Where the U.S. has the House of Representatives and the Senate, Switzerland has the Nationalrat (House) and the Ständerat (Senate), performing nearly identical roles.
Another similarity is that the US and Switzerland are the only western countries who never had a Monarchy.
PUBLISHER
Beat Kahli
EDITOR Stephanie Lerret
ART
DIRECTOR Kenzie Farrish
absent in Switzerland, holds a special place in the hearts of Americans. Here in Avalon Park, I see the American flag proudly displayed on nearly every street, year-round. In Switzerland, the national flag—the white cross on a red background—is typically seen on government buildings and primarily on Independence Day. Still, I believe both Americans and Swiss are deeply patriotic, grateful, and proud of their countries and heritage.
Fireworks and barbecues are common in each of the 2 countries on Independence Day. In Switzerland each Village generally starts its celebration with a speech of its mayor or other dignity. And sometimes those speeches have a political agenda, sometimes they are funny, but always deeply patriotic.
As I look forward to two meaningful celebrations this summer, I am reminded of how fortunate I am to call both countries home.
Happy Independence Day to America this month—and to Switzerland next month. May both celebrations continue to reflect the freedoms and values we hold dear.
The Avalon Park Sun is published by Avalon Park Group.
Interested in Advertising with us? Email Marketing@AvalonParkGroup.com or call 407.658.6565.
3801 Avalon Park East Blvd. #400 Orlando, FL 32828 www.AvalonParkSun.com
5 Patriotic Ways to Decorate Your Apartment This 4th of July at The Flats at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel
There’s no better place to celebrate Independence Day than in a vibrant, connected community—and when you live at The Flats at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, you’re right in the center of it all. With small-town charm, lively events, and modern luxury living, it’s the perfect setting to embrace the red, white, and blue spirit. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or enjoying a quiet evening watching fireworks, here are five fun and festive ways to bring patriotic flair into your apartment this 4th of July.
1. Set a Stars & Stripes Tablescape
Turn your dining table into a patriotic masterpiece! Layer a navy blue runner with red chargers and crisp white plates. Napkin rings made of mini American flags or red-white-andblue ribbon add a charming touch. Top it off with a mason jar centerpiece filled with fresh carnations or hydrangeas in vibrant hues.
2. Make a Statement with a Patriotic Wreath
Give your front door a warm, festive welcome with a DIY wreath. Use faux flowers, burlap, or ribbon in patriotic colors to create a piece that feels both handmade and heartfelt. It’s a small detail that sets a celebratory tone every time you walk in.
3. Brighten Your Balcony with Festive Lights
If your apartment includes a balcony, let it shine this July 4th! Hang patriotic string lights or lanterns, drape flag-themed bunting across the railing, and add outdoor throw pillows for a cozy space to relax or watch community fireworks. Bonus: it makes a perfect photo spot for guests!
4. Add Star-Spangled Wall Decor
Renter-friendly wall decals in red, white, and blue can instantly transform your space without leaving marks. Try stars scattered along a hallway wall or a framed quote like “Land of the Free, Because of the Brave.” A few framed prints or art pieces can bring big impact without the commitment.
5. Bring in Bold Patriotic Textiles
Switch up your throw pillows, blankets, or rugs for a splash of seasonal color. Striped cushions, star-covered throws, or even a simple red tablecloth can tie the entire theme together. These soft, stylish touches can easily be stored and reused next year.
Celebrate in Style—and in Community
At The Flats at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, the 4th of July is more than just a holiday—it’s a community experience. With events happening right in the neighborhood, you’re never far from live music, delicious food, and a spectacular fireworks show. And the best part? You’re just steps away from it all, in the comfort of your own luxury apartment.
Ready to Live at the Heart of it All?
Come visit The Flats during the July 4th festivities and see why our residents love calling Avalon Park Wesley Chapel home. Tour our spacious, modern apartments, experience the energy of the community, and get a taste of small-town living with big-time charm.
Stop by during the 4th of July celebration
Call (813) 322-2700 to schedule a tour
Learn more at theflatsatavalonpark.com/wesley-chapel
Live where the celebration never ends—The Flats at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel.
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VetCheck Pet Urgent Care Center: Modern After-Hours Care for Your Pets
VetCheck Pet Urgent Care, a DVM-owned and woman-led veterinary practice, is proud to announce the expansion of its innovative urgent care model to Wesley Chapel. This new location will provide after-hours medical services for pets, bridging the critical gap between primary care veterinarians and 24-hour emergency hospitals.
Founded with the mission of making veterinary care more accessible, VetCheck Pet Urgent Care offers extended evening and weekend hours, walk-in availability, and rapid triage services—ensuring pets receive timely care when they need it most. From minor injuries and sudden illnesses to diagnostics, pain management, and wound treatment, VetCheck clinics are fully equipped with advanced technology and compassionate medical staff.
“Our goal is to take the stress out of pet emergencies by offering prompt, transparent, and high-quality care,” said Dr. Siva Nalabotu, DVM and Founder of VetCheck. “As a woman-led management team, our staff is passionate about creating veterinary spaces that prioritize both clinical excellence and a supportive client experience.”
One of VetCheck’s hallmarks is its commitment to client communication and price transparency. Pet parents are provided with clear explanations of their pet’s condition, treatment options, and expected costs—helping them make informed decisions in high-stress situations.
With multiple successful locations across the country, VetCheck Pet Urgent Care continues to gain momentum as a go-to provider for urgent, non-life-threatening veterinary services. The Wesley Chapel opening marks another step in VetCheck’s mission to reimagine urgent pet care through innovation, compassion, and
convenience.
OPENING SOON! (July 2025)
VetCheck Pet Urgent Care Center - Wesley Chapel 4424 Friendly Way #130 Wesley Chapel, FL 33543 813-365-7004
www.vetcheckforpetswesleychapel.com
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Coming together to create a healthy community
Tax Collector Mike Fasano Sponsors Donation Drive for the Pasco School District’s ABC Program During the Month of July
Tax Collector Mike Fasano’s five offices will be collecting donations in July for the Pasco County School District’s ABC (Assist, Believe & Care) Program. The program was created to provide financial assistance to students and their families who are experiencing economic hardship, especially when those needs interfere with the student’s ability to be academically successful. The cash donated goes into a fund that teachers can use when they see or learn of a need a student may have. In past years, this office has donated thousands of dollars to Pasco schools to support this important program.
“Many Pasco families are finding that their budget is being tested in many ways,” remarks Tax Collector Mike Fasano. “The general cost of living, the difficult storm season of the past year, and other financial burdens can really strain the paycheck. Children without food, adequate clothing or other unmet needs often
suffer academically. The assistance provided by the ABC Program helps students get back on track and stay on track by helping fulfill some of the student’s and his/ her family’s necessities.”
Cash donations can be made at any of the five tax collector locations in Pasco County. Donations may also be mailed to the tax collector’s office at the following address: Tax Collector Mike Fasano, P.O. Box 276, Dade City, FL 33526. Additionally, donations may be made online at https://www.govhub. com/fl-pasco/tc-gives/donate
For more information about the Pasco Tax Collector’s ABC Program fundraising event, as well as the charitable giving programs in general, please contact Assistant Tax Collector Greg Giordano at 727-847-8179 or visit www.pascotaxes.com
Tax Collector Mike Fasano’s Offices Raised $5,000 for
“Hope for the Children” as May’s Charity of the
Tax Collector Mike Fasano’s five offices featured Hope for the Children as May’s Charity-of-the-Month. Hope for the Children is a year-round program that offers nocost after-school and summer activities for children from 11-18 years of age. During the fundraising effort, $5,000 was raised to support these efforts.
“We are thrilled to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Pasco County Tax Collector for choosing us as their charity of the month,”
Month
comments Dr. Sheila Cappalo, Founder & CEO of Hope for the Children. “This incredible opportunity not only helped raise much-needed funds to support our free programs but also shone a spotlight on our mission.”
“I express many thanks to the customers who donated to Hope for the Children during our fundraising effort,” remarks Tax Collector Mike Fasano. “The children who need care, compassion and emotional support will be able to receive the help they need. Dr. Sheila Cappalo and her team have been great partners in our community!”
For more information about Hope for the Children please contact Dr. Sheila Cappalo via the website - https://www.hftcm.org/ For more information about the promotional and charitable giving programs at the tax collector’s office please contact Assistant Tax Collector Greg Giordano at 727-847-8179 or visit www.pascotaxes.com
Tax Collector Mike Fasano is joined by Dr. Sheila Cappalo and her team at Hope for the Children as well as staff members from the Pasco Tax Collector’s Office
AdventHealth First in Florida to Offer Groundbreaking, Robotic Surgery for Hysterectomy Patients
AdventHealth Wesley Chapel is the first hospital in Florida to perform a new, minimally invasive robotic hysterectomy. The innovative procedure provides a new option for women who need to have their uterus removed and desire a procedure that will leave them with no visible scars, and a shorter hospital stay.
Dr. Olufunke Abiose and Dr. Gerard Jackson perform the surgery at AdventHealth Wesley Chapel, combining the superior recovery times of vaginal surgery with the precision of robotic surgery to perform the da Vinci vNOTES Hysterectomy. vNOTES stands for vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery.
“As a surgeon, I am continually pursuing advanced training and innovative techniques to offer my patients the least invasive and most effective surgical options available,” Dr. Abiose said. “Many of my patients are pleasantly surprised by how quickly they can return to their daily routines after surgery. Incorporating robotic-assisted technology into vaginal procedures adds a new level of precision and control.”
In the U.S., about 500,000 hysterectomies are performed each year for women with chronic pain, fibroids, uterine prolapse, heavy bleeding, endometriosis, and precancerous or cancerous tumors. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists have recommended vaginal hysterectomy, whenever feasible, as the approach of choice.
During the daVinci vNOTES procedure, a device known as the GelPOINT® V-Path transvaginal access platform is placed through the vagina into the pelvic cavity, giving access to the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. The abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide gas to provide the surgeon with the necessary space to see and operate. A high-definition camera, robotic arm, and specialized instruments are inserted through the device, allowing surgeons to operate with the utmost precision and visualization.
Along with leaving no visible scars, the da Vinci vNOTES procedure offers patients a vaginal gynecological surgery option with less pain after the operation, and a faster recovery compared to the traditional laparoscopic approach, where surgeons make small incisions in the abdomen to remove the uterus.
“We are grateful to be able to offer this procedure to our patients at AdventHealth Wesley Chapel. Using this leadingedge technology, the vast majority of our patients are able to leave the hospital the same day they were admitted and since this procedure avoids abdominal incisions, it typically results in a lesser need for pain medication,” said Dr. Robert Rosequist, chief medical officer for AdventHealth Wesley Chapel.
Learn more about the Women’s Care options at AdventHealth Wesley Chapel.
AdventHealth Zephyrhills Unveils its Newly Renovated Electrophysiology Lab to Diagnose and Treat Heart Rhythm Problems
AdventHealth Zephyrhills continues its commitment to delivering leading-edge cardiovascular care close to home, with the unveiling of its newly renovated Electrophysiology (EP) Lab. The lab helps doctors diagnose and treat heart rhythm problems. Hospital leaders held a ribbon cutting on May 29, 2025, with tours of the new lab.
The space is now equipped with the Philips Azurion 3 imaging system, enabling physicians to perform complex imaging with even better precision. In addition, the integration of 3D heart mapping technologies from Biosense Webster and St. Jude Medical allows electrophysiologists to diagnose and treat heart rhythm disorders with exceptional accuracy.
The EP lab will also restart transseptal procedures, including Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Ablations, which can be an important treatment for the more than 5 million adults in the U.S. living with AFib, and with more than 12 million people projected to have the condition by 2030. CDC data shows that AFib increases a person’s risk for stroke and causes about 1 in 7 strokes.
“With this new EP lab, we can continue to provide the best, most innovative heart care close to home,” said Gwen Alonso, chief nursing officer for AdventHealth Zephyrhills. “This renovation at AdventHealth Zephyrhills reinforces our dedication to meeting the evolving health care needs of the East Pasco County community.”
AdventHealth Zephyrhills also recently launched renal denervation procedures, offering a new option for patients with high blood pressure who have not found relief through
lifestyle changes or medication.
AdventHealth Zephyrhills’ commitment to heart care is further reflected in its Cardiac Cath Lab Accreditation, Chest Pain Accreditation and Heart Failure Accreditation from the American College of Cardiology (ACC). The facility is also recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a nationally rated leader in heart failure and heart attack care, demonstrating a high standard of quality and adherence to ACC and American Heart Association (AHA) clinical guidelines.
For more information about cardiac services at AdventHealth Zephyrhills, click here.
