OCTOBER
Fall Brings Community, Connection, and Celebration to Downtown Avalon Park Wesley Chapel
LEARN
October is a special time in Downtown Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, and this year’s calendar is filled with opportunities to gather with neighbors, support local businesses, and celebrate the season. From weekly activities and seasonal festivals to creative workshops and new business openings, there is something for everyone happening throughout the month.
A Month of Celebrations and Seasonal Fun
The month kicks off with the Kids End of Summer Bash on Saturday, October 4, from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., offering family-friendly activities and a chance to enjoy one more summer celebration before fall arrives. That same day, pet owners are invited to attend the VETCHECK Grand Opening from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., as Downtown welcomes a new veterinary wellness center to the community. The popular Farmers Market will also return on October 4 and October 18 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., featuring local vendors, fresh produce, and artisan goods.
One of the most anticipated events of the year, the Spooktacular Halloween Event, takes place on Saturday, October 18, from 5 – 9 p.m. Families can enjoy trick-or-treating with local businesses, costume contests, live entertainment, and seasonal treats, all in the heart of Downtown Avalon Park. Rounding out the month, Woof Gang Bakery will host a Spooky Grooming Contest on October 31, the perfect way for four-legged friends to join in the Halloween fun.
Creativity and Community Connection Opportunities to connect and get creative are woven throughout the October calendar. Families can enjoy the Palette & Potions Family Paint Party on October 11 from 10 – 11:30 a.m., or browse for treasures during the Fall Community Yard Sale on October 18 from 8 a.m. –12 p.m. With multiple families participating across the
Avalon Park Wesley Chapel community, this is a great chance to explore the neighborhood, find hidden gems, and meet new neighbors.
On Saturday, October 25, from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Avalon Park Wesley Chapel will host the Community Shred Fest & Secure Electronics Disposal Event, a free event that provides residents with a safe and secure way to dispose of sensitive documents and approved electronics. Items such as laptops, phones, small appliances, and networking equipment will be accepted. While there is no charge to participate, a suggested donation of $5 per shred box is encouraged, with proceeds benefiting local nonprofit organizations.
Weekly Activities and Local Favorites
There is always something to look forward to each week in Downtown Avalon Park. Wednesdays are perfect for unwinding at Wine Down Wednesday at Tallo from 4–8 p.m., and Tuesdays invite you to get creative with Art Snacks classes from 6:30–8:30 p.m. and Double Punch Tuesday at Rita’s. Food Truck Nights remain a community favorite, with a rotating lineup of local vendors every Thursday and Friday from 5–8 p.m. On Mondays, Howdy Doodles Ice Cream Coach serves sweet treats from 5–7:30 p.m., and Sundays are all about gathering with friends for Sunday Football at Tallo from 1–8 p.m.
Business Openings and Special Offers
October also brings exciting milestones for local businesses. In addition to the VETCHECK Grand Opening on October 4, ISI Elite Training will celebrate its one-year anniversary on October 25. Special offers are available throughout the month, including RUDRAKSH Lunch Specials, Woof Gang full package discounts, and The Flats’ two months free on select apartments.
With so many events, activities, and celebrations planned, Downtown Avalon Park Wesley Chapel is the place to be this fall. Whether you are exploring the Farmers Market, hunting for deals at the yard sale, responsibly recycling electronics, or celebrating the season at Spooktacular, October offers countless ways to connect with neighbors and experience the sense of community that makes Avalon Park so special.
To stay connected with everything happening in Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, sign up for our monthly digital newsletter. You will receive the latest news, event updates, and community stories delivered straight to your inbox. Visit AvalonParkWesleyChapel.com to subscribe and make sure you never miss a moment in the heart of Wesley Chapel.
Coffee with Beat: Celebrating the People Who Make Our Community Strong
When I take time to reflect on what makes Avalon Park Wesley Chapel so special, I am always reminded that the true strength of a community is not found in its buildings, parks, or businesses alone — it is found in its people.
This fall, we are continuing a conversation that is close to my heart: celebrating the Local Legends who make our community thrive. These are the neighbors who show up when someone needs help, the volunteers who quietly give their time, the teachers who go above and beyond, and the small business owners who pour their hearts into serving others. They are the heartbeat of Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, transforming it from a development into a true hometown.
Communities like ours do not grow by chance. They flourish because of the people who choose to invest their time, talents, and care into the lives of others. As we gather for fall festivals, enjoy evenings with neighbors, and come together for shared experiences, it is the dedication of these everyday heroes that makes it all possible.
Now, we want to hear from you. Do you know someone whose kindness, leadership, or service is making a difference here in Avalon Park Wesley Chapel? Maybe it is a teacher inspiring the next generation, a neighbor always lending a helping hand, a volunteer who never seeks recognition, or a local business owner deeply rooted in giving back.
No matter how big or small their actions may seem, these are the stories that define who we are as a community — and we want to share them.
If you know a local hero whose story should be told, please email us at Info@ AvalonParkSun.com. Together, let’s continue celebrating the people who make Avalon Park Wesley Chapel such a special place to call home.
Fall Into Comfort at The Flats at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel
Autumn has arrived in Avalon Park, and there’s no better time to make your home warm, welcoming, and full of seasonal charm. At The Flats at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, residents enjoy the best of both worlds — the convenience of modern, luxury living paired with the cozy comforts of small-town community life.
Preparing and decorating your apartment for fall is a simple way to bring the season’s warmth indoors. Add layers with throw blankets and pillows in autumn hues, display pumpkins or gourds for natural décor, and bring the outdoors inside with seasonal wreaths or arrangements of dried leaves and flowers. Small touches like cinnamon-scented candles or a cozy reading corner can instantly transform your space into a fall retreat.
Beyond your front door, October is brimming with activities in Downtown Avalon Park. From Oktoberfest celebrations filled with live music and delicious food to art exhibits, cultural events, and family-friendly fall festivals, there’s
something for everyone to enjoy. Living at The Flats means you are just steps away from dining, shopping, entertainment, and community gatherings that bring neighbors together.
If you’re looking for a new place to call home, now is the perfect time to make the move. The Flats at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel is currently offering a special October Move-In Promotion on select two- and three-bedroom apartments: two months of free rent plus waived application and admin fees. These luxury apartments feature open floor plans, modern kitchens, and access to all the conveniences of Downtown Avalon Park.
Fall is a season of comfort, connection, and community — and at The Flats, you’ll find all three.
To learn more or schedule a tour, contact The Flats at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel today at 813-851-4228 or visit TheFlatsAtAvalonPark.com.
The Real Payoff of Home Improvements in Florida’s Fall Transition
As the humidity dips and the evenings stretch a little cooler, fall offers Florida homeowners more than just a reprieve from summer. It delivers breathing room. A natural pause. A moment to look around and think— what does this home need before the year turns? Whether it’s sealing up that slow-rotting soffit, reimagining a worn-out workspace, or finally upgrading the sagging backyard gate, this seasonal reset invites a deeper kind of maintenance. Not the kind born from emergencies, but the kind that builds real longevity. Done right, home improvements do more than polish a property—they shift how a house functions, how it feels, and even how it performs under AI-powered market visibility.
Building With the Right Stuff
What you use to build matters just as much as what you decide to build. Florida homes fight a unique enemy: moisture. Which means choosing materials isn’t an aesthetic decision—it’s a longevity one. When evaluating siding, cabinetry, or even adhesives, consider sourcing from guides that outline the best materials for Florida climate. These are choices that resist mold, stand firm in humidity, and reduce the invisible maintenance tax so many homeowners pay after hurricane season. The right vinyl or concrete blend doesn’t just last—it breathes with the structure.
Getting Grounded With Budget Clarity
But the upgrades that matter most aren’t always dramatic. One of the smartest ways to begin is with planning— not plaster. Before a single wall is knocked down, homeowners can get strategic with a free budget template that keeps both scope and wallet in check. Whether you’re doing a $400 DIY facelift or a $40,000 kitchen overhaul, visualizing how different line items interact is a mindset shift. It moves the project out of “hopeful chaos” and into “proactive equity.” Because a remodel that blows your savings doesn’t add value—it just relocates stress.
Resetting the Rhythm With Seasonal Maintenance
Florida’s fall isn’t about leaves turning—it’s about systems catching up. The AC unit, the water heater, even the gutters—they’ve all been running hard. Now’s the moment to shift into rhythm and schedule a proper seasonal tune-up for Florida homes. A little roof inspection here, a weather seal there, and suddenly you’re avoiding surprise leaks in January. Seasonal momentum like this does more than prevent decay. It builds what realtors
call “quiet trust” in the home—a kind of visible care that radiates to buyers and appraisers alike.
Designing Workspaces That Earn Their Keep
Still, not all improvements are visible from the driveway. With remote work now a permanent reality for many Floridians, carving out intentional workspace inside the home has become its own form of equity. It’s not just about ergonomics—it’s about architectural credibility. A dedicated, well-thought-out corner for work signals clarity and purpose, especially in resale narratives. For those weighing layout changes, a great primer on designing a home office makes a strong case for future-focused design: light control, hybrid zones, and tech-friendly routing that withstands the next five years, not just the next Zoom call.
Avoiding Red Tape the Smart Way
That said, before you lay the first tile, you’ll want to ensure your dreams align with local code. Not every improvement is free of red tape, and failure to file permits can turn a simple project into a costly legal detour. A quick scan of Florida improvement permit requirements can help homeowners avoid everything from fines to forced teardowns. It’s a layer of the process often skipped—but one that separates impulsive renovation from sustainable property development.
Remodels That Actually Pay You Back
Of course, homeowners aren’t just investing in functionality—they’re often chasing ROI. But not all projects return value equally. A fresh coat of paint may outperform a full room addition. Smart thermostats might speak louder than granite countertops. For those prioritizing equity over aesthetics, start by understanding renovations that increase home value. Framing your choices around market perception, not just personal taste, is what helps your investment echo through time.
Yards That Signal Pride Without Words
Let’s not forget the role of curb appeal. In Florida, where fall still invites barefoot mornings and backyard dinners, outdoor space is an extension of the home—not just a backdrop. A few intentional upgrades—like mulch refreshing or weather-appropriate blooms—can anchor that connection between home and habitat. And it doesn’t need to be elaborate. Thoughtful fall landscaping for Florida yards goes a long way in framing the home’s story before anyone even steps inside. And in a digital listing scroll, that impression matters.
Home improvement isn’t one decision—it’s a thousand micro-decisions strung together. Each one shifts how your home feels, how it functions, how it flexes with your life. Fall in Florida offers the rare space to approach these decisions not with panic, but with intention. To plan, to prep, to act without the pressure of incoming storms or oppressive heat. Whether you’re fixing a gutter, building a new home office, or choosing moisture-proof siding, the choices you make now ripple into both lived experience and long-term value. Start where you are. But start smart.
Discover the vibrant community of Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, where you can live, learn, work, and play amidst a charming small-town atmosphere filled with exciting events and family-friendly activities!
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Avalon Park Wesley Chapel From Above!
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Expanded AdventHealth Wesley Chapel Graduate Medical Education Program Now Open
A new, expanded space for AdventHealth Wesley Chapel’s Graduate Medical Education program is now open. The expansion marks a major milestone in the hospital’s continued growth and commitment to training the next generation of physicians. This new space is part of a larger, ongoing expansion at AdventHealth Wesley Chapel that reflects the hospital’s deepening investment in clinical excellence and the future of health care in Pasco County.
The newly expanded Family Medicine Residency program space includes eight new exam rooms, a procedure room, workstation and office space for faculty and staff. These new facilities were designed to provide medical residents with an optimal environment for hands-on learning, collaboration, and high-quality patient care.
“With the opening of our expanded GME program space, AdventHealth Wesley Chapel solidifies its role as a destination for top-tier patient care as well as a center for academic medicine,” said Dr. Omari Hodge, founding GME program director. “We’re excited to have our second year of Wesley Chapel resident physicians use this new space to learn and grow alongside our experienced clinical
teams.”
Construction of the full AdventHealth Wesley Chapel hospital expansion will be completed in December and will add over 80,000 square feet of new hospital space and increase the licensed bed count from 169 to 193. This includes new inpatient units, surgical suites, advanced imaging services, and patient recovery areas that are all aimed at enhancing access to high-quality care for the growing community.
Since opening its doors in 2012, AdventHealth Wesley Chapel has been recognized nationally for its commitment to patient satisfaction, safety, and innovation. The expanded GME program further elevates the hospital’s mission to deliver whole-person care while building a strong pipeline of future medical professionals.
For more information about the GME program or hospital services, please click here
Tax Collector Mike Fasano Announces that $7,500 Was Donated to the Pasco School District’s ABC Program
Tax Collector Mike Fasano’s five offices collected donations this summer for the Pasco County School District’s ABC (Assist, Believe & Care) Program. This 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. In past years, the tax collector’s offices have donated thousands of dollars to Pasco County schools to support this important program.
“These uncertain economic times can provide extra stress upon families who have been dealing with challenges caused by last year’s storm season, health issues and other financial and personal challenges,” remarks Tax Collector Mike Fasano. “Thanks to the ABC Program, funds are designated to students and their families who are experiencing hardship or crisis. Funds that were collected were distributed to the five schools most in need of assistance.”
Five Pasco County elementary schools received $1,500 each to be used by their respective ABC Program. The
following schools all received donations via personal delivery by Pasco Tax Collector staff:
PLAY
Experience the Magic of Nighttime Painting at the Nocturne Plein Air Event
This December, art and community will come together under the glow of holiday lights in Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. In partnership with the Zephyrhills Art Club, we are excited to host a Nocturne Plein Air Event during Avalon Aglow on Saturday, December 13th, from 5–9 PM.
If you’ve ever admired the quiet beauty of a nighttime landscape, this is your chance to see that magic captured live on canvas. The word “nocturne” in visual art refers to a painting that depicts a nighttime scene, often filled with mood, atmosphere, and emotion. Unlike traditional daytime paintings, nocturnes are less about precise details and more about expressing the way light interacts with shadow, creating serene, mysterious, or even dramatic effects. They often feature muted colors, bold contrasts, and abstract interpretations of familiar spaces—transforming ordinary scenes into something otherworldly.
Now add the tradition of plein air painting—the practice of creating art outdoors, directly within the landscape—and you have an experience unlike any other. Plein air nocturnes capture fleeting light and shadow in real time, challenging artists to work quickly and intuitively while letting atmosphere guide their brush. The results are unique, personal, and deeply moving.
During Avalon Aglow, artists of all levels are invited to bring their easels, brushes, and creativity into the heart of Avalon Park for an inspiring evening of live painting. As families enjoy holiday festivities—including live performances, food trucks, vendors, a snow slide, Santa visits, and more—artists will be tucked among the lights and energy, interpreting the evening through their own artistic lens. The result will be a vibrant blend of community celebration and artistic expression.
Registered artists will also enjoy a few exciting perks for their participation:
• A food voucher to use during the event.
• The chance to exhibit their finished work in local Avalon Park Wesley Chapel businesses, giving their art exposure long after the evening ends.
• A feature spotlight across Avalon Park’s social media channels, the Avalon Park Sun, and local publications such as Neighborhood News and Our Town FLA.
All mediums and skill levels are welcome to participate. Whether you’re an experienced painter or simply looking to challenge yourself in a new way, the Nocturne Plein Air Event is about exploration, community, and creative spirit. Artists are responsible for bringing their own supplies, including an easel and a chair—so be sure to come prepared for an evening under the stars.
The Nocturne Plein Air Event promises to be more than just a painting session. It’s an opportunity to be part of something larger: a community celebration that values creativity, connection, and shared experiences. Surrounded by music, laughter, and the glow of holiday lights, artists and attendees alike will witness how art can transform a moment in time into a lasting memory.
We invite you to step into the magic, capture the night, and share your vision with Avalon Park Wesley Chapel.
Location: 4424 Friendly Way, Wesley Chapel, FL 33543 813-783-1515 • Info@AvalonParkWesleyChapel.com
Registration: Click Here to Register
Art Examples by Artist Sally Yoder.
Sunrise
of Pasco – Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center Will be Pasco Tax Collector Mike Fasano’s October Charity of the Month
Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano’s five offices will be collecting donations in October to assist Sunrise of Pasco County’s Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center. The mission of Sunrise is to prevent domestic and sexual violence before it ever happens. If it does, Sunrise is dedicated to assisting victims to escape those conditions and find safety and freedom in the community.
Sunrise has created the “Pet Retreat” so that victims, who are often forced into staying in a violent relationship due to threatened or actual harm that may befall a beloved family pet, will have a safe place to bring their pets. At its emergency shelter for women a pet haven has been added to house any pets that victims may have escaped with.
“Sunrise of Pasco County is truly honored to be named the Pasco County Tax Collector’s October Charity of the Month,” comments Kelly Sinn, CEO of Sunrise of Pasco County’s Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center. “We are deeply grateful to Tax Collector Mike Fasano and his wonderful staff for this incredible opportunity to raise awareness and support for survivors of domestic and sexual violence. With October being “Domestic Violence Awareness Month,” this recognition is especially meaningful. The support we receive helps sustain vital programs like our Pet Retreat, which ensures survivors can find safety without having to leave their beloved pets behind. Thank you to the Pasco community for your continued generosity and commitment. Your support empowers survivors, strengthens families, and truly makes a difference.”
“The Sunrise of Pasco County’s Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center is the premier agency in our county to help victims of domestic violence escape from that life,” remarks Tax Collector Mike Fasano. “During my many years in public service I have been continually impressed with the compassion Sunrise staff and volunteers demonstrate to some of the most vulnerable women and their children every day. It is humbling to know that the Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office is going to once again have this opportunity to help an organization that, since 1982, has helped countless women and children live their lives without the fear of violence and intimidation.”
For those who would like to give online, the tax collector’s office’s charitable giving arm Pasco TC Gives has a webpage through which donations for Sunrise of Pasco (Charity of the Month) can be made: https://www.govhub.com/fl-pasco/tcgives/donate Donations may also be mailed to: Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office, P.O. Box 276, Dade City FL 33526-0276.
For more information about the charitable giving programs and other services at the Pasco Tax Collector’s Office please visit www.pascotaxes.com or call Greg Giordano, Assistant Tax Collector/ Communications & Special Projects at 727847-8179. For more information regarding Sunrise of Pasco’s Domestic Violence Center please visit https://www. sunrisepasco.org/ or contact Kelly Sinn, Chief Executive Officer at (352) 521-3358.
Coming together to create a healthy community
COMMUNITY CORNER
Local Legends: Sally Yoder – Inspiring Creativity and Building Community Through the Arts
At Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, we know that the heart of a thriving community is its people — those who give their time, talents, and passion to make this place more vibrant and connected. Few embody that spirit more than Sally Yoder, a dedicated artist, educator, and advocate whose work has elevated the arts in our community and brought people together through creativity.
Sally has been instrumental in expanding access to the arts for residents of all ages. Through workshops, paint nights, and art classes, she has created opportunities for people to discover new talents, express themselves, and connect with others. Her current series, hosted at the Avalon Park Wesley Chapel Welcome Center, is inspiring budding artists and experienced creators alike, making the arts approachable and enjoyable for everyone.
A key part of Sally’s impact comes from her deep involvement with the Zephyrhills Art Club. Through her leadership and vision, she has helped build a meaningful partnership that extends beyond city lines, bringing talented artists, exhibitions, and educational opportunities to Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. This collaboration has strengthened our community’s creative culture and provided even more ways for residents to engage with and celebrate the arts.
Sally’s dedication extends beyond the classroom and studio. She is also the driving force behind the upcoming Nocturne Plein Air Competition, returning this December. This unique event invites artists to capture the beauty and character of Avalon Park Wesley Chapel after dark, showcasing our community through a creative lens and highlighting the power of art to transform how we see the world around us.
Her unwavering commitment to nurturing creativity and building connections through the arts is exactly why Sally Yoder is a Local Legend. Her leadership, passion, and vision have helped shape Avalon Park Wesley Chapel into a more colorful, connected, and inspired place to live.
Get involved: Sign up today for one of Sally’s art classes, workshops, or to participate in the Nocturne Plein Air Competition by visiting avalonparkwesleychapel. com/news-events/calendar.
Nominate a Local Legend: Do you know someone making a difference in Avalon Park Wesley Chapel? Share their story with us! Email info@AvalonParkSun. com and they could be featured in a future edition of the Avalon Park Sun.
Pasco EDC Announces Winners for the 37th Annual Awards
The Pasco Economic Development Council (Pasco EDC) hosted its 37th Annual Awards event last night at Saddlebrook Resort. With over 300 people in attendance, the event was a great night of networking and celebrating economic excellence in Pasco County. A special thank you to our Finalist Reception Sponsor, Greater Tampa REALTORS, Hospitality Sponsor, Florida’s Sports Coast, and our Presenting Sponsors for the evening, AdventHealth and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Property Group.
“We had a great night recognizing businesses who have made a significant economic impact in Pasco County,” said Bill Cronin, Pasco EDC President/CEO. “And it was truly an honor to recognize Dewey Mitchell who has made a tremendous contribution to making Pasco County the place it is today.”
The award finalists this year included companies that exhibited exemplary growth through job creation, capital investment, technology, workforce innovation, and community service. The winners were announced with captivating videos created by the evening’s Video Production Sponsor, TradeUp Marketing, formerly JL Video (view videos here).
The award winners for 2025 are:
1. SMARTstart Entrepreneur of the Year: Andria Roscart, Athenaeum Brew Lounge
Andria opened her brick-and-mortar business in 2024 after building out her facility located in the heart of downtown Dade City. It combines Andria’s dream of creating a place to get quality beer while spending time with friends and family. Andria learned how to start and grow a business utilizing knowledge gained as a graduate of the SMARTstart CO.STARTERS program. She applied this knowledge to open her facility and expand her business.
2. Special Contribution: Pasco News Media Group LLC
Reporter Bryan Farrow opened Pasco News in 2020 with a focus on being direct and sharing pertinent information as quickly as possible through his website and Facebook page with over 120,000 followers. During the 2024 hurricane season, they pivoted all
communications to assist in sharing the importance of emergency alerts regarding Pasco County and launched a mobile app, which many residents looked to for updates.
3. Pasco Establishment Award: Thirsty Buffalo Brew Factory
Located in the West Pasco Industrial Park in Odessa, Thirsty Buffalo Brew Factory opened their new facility in September 2024. The company manufactures their own craft beer and co-packs other non-alcoholic beverages. After investing $100,000 in a new canning line and brewing equipment, Thirsty Buffalo is manufacturing their products on site and entering new markets.
4. Innovation in Workforce Development: METTLER TOLEDO METTLER TOLEDO Product Inspection Division opened in Pasco County in 2016 and employs over 700 individuals with a focus on employee retention. They work with local training organizations to provide educational facility tours to students. The company created The METTLER TOLEDO Early Career Experience (ECE) Program which offers recent graduates a structured program that introduces them to various areas within the company.
5.Economic Excellence Award (small category): Escape Brewing Company
With over $1 million dollars in capital investment, Escape Brewing Company has expanded its operations at Trinity by building a production facility, taproom, and beer garden which has given them the opportunity to double their production capacity. Additionally, the 2.5 acre expansion has allowed them to create a food hall, the first of its kind in Pasco County.
6. Economic Excellence Award (large category): Merrell Bros, Inc.
Over the last year, Merrell Brothers has invested over $10 million in new land, buildings and equipment to expand their Pasco County operations. Their product lines consist of biosolids-derived fertilizers used in farming and general agricultural applications. A part of their investment included a new 28,000 square foot facility called Florida Green. The company has hired over thirty full-time positions in the past year.
7. Leadership Award: Dewey Mitchell (Read full press release) Dewey Mitchell is the Owner and Co-Broker of the highly recognizable local real estate firm, Capstone Tropical Holdings, Inc., comprised of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Properties Group and other entities through which he has brokered many deals in Pasco County that have resulted in a positive economic impact. He is an entrepreneur, thoughtful real estate mogul, Olympian, servant community leader, and family man.
The awards ceremony concluded, and attendees moved to the dinner and trade show portion of the event where exhibitors ranged from technology companies to Pasco County manufacturers.
Discover more at www.pascoedc.com
Pasco EDC Receives Two Excellence in Economic Development Awards
Pasco Economic Development Council (Pasco EDC) received two 2025 Excellence in Economic Development Bronze Awards from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). The awards were bestowed for the organization’s work in the Email Newsletter and Recovery, Resiliency & Mitigation categories that impacted over 500,000 residents. The awards were received at the IEDC 2025 Annual Conference in Detroit, Michigan, earlier last week.
“We are honored to be recognized by IEDC with two Excellence in Economic Development awards. Our team works hard to maintain relationships with Pasco County businesses through the Pasco EDC Business Retention and Expansion program, and it is exciting to see the Pasco Biz Connect campaign being recognized as a part of their efforts to support business growth in our community,” shared Bill Cronin, Pasco EDC President/CEO.
The following Pasco EDC projects were recognized:
1. The Email Newsletter Award in the bronze category recognized the Pasco Biz Connect campaign.
This campaign promotes the Pasco EDC Business Retention and Expansion (BR&E) program by utilizing themed monthly email newsletters, social media, and new website features, including a new blog page and resource library, to provide relevant content to the business community. The campaign has shown tremendous success and surpassed the entire previous year’s social media engagements only halfway through the campaign’s second year,
additionally the campaign maintained an email click through rate of 16 percent, well over the industry average of 2.6 percent.
2. The Recovery, Resiliency, and Mitigation Award in the bronze category recognized Pasco EDC’s emergency communication efforts during the 2024 hurricane season.
The Pasco EDC team worked with local, state, and federal agencies to share important recovery and mitigation updates and resources with the community. The past year’s storms were the worst to hit the area in over 100 years, and our team worked together with our partners, including Pasco County Government and Florida SBDC at USF, to disseminate all information in a timely manner to businesses. During the 2024 hurricane season, there were over 1,000 clicks in Pasco EDC emergency communication emails which included links to various partner resources. During this same timeframe, Pasco EDC social media posts relating to emergency communications reached over 144,000 impressions.
“Pasco EDC is leading the field of excellence in economic development with its programs. These awards shine a spotlight on Pasco EDC’s commitment to its community and showcases the significant impact of economic development,” said Nathan Ohle, IEDC President and CEO. “IEDC is honored to present this award to Pasco EDC to celebrate both their leadership and innovation in the field.”
AdventHealth Lights the Way for Breast Cancer Awareness this October
This October, AdventHealth will shine a light on the fight against breast cancer by illuminating several of our facilities in pink and hosting a series of events to raise awareness about the importance of early detection.
Breast cancer affects 1 in 8 women in the United States, but when detected early, it is highly treatable. That’s why AdventHealth is committed to increasing awareness, promoting regular screenings, and making it easier than ever to schedule a potentially life-saving mammogram.
Join
Us in October
To kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month, AdventHealth is hosting Pink Out Day on October 1. Employees and community members are encouraged to wear pink to honor survivors and remember those lost to breast cancer.
Throughout the month, AdventHealth will light up several of its facilities in pink as a symbol of hope, support, and strength for everyone affected by breast cancer. Community members are invited to participate by lighting their porches pink to help spread awareness about the importance of early detection.
To support this effort, free pink lightbulbs will be available at AdventHealth Care Pavilions throughout October (while supplies last). Pick one up, light your porch, and join us in shining a light on breast cancer.
Making Mammograms Easier Than Ever
The best defense against breast cancer is early detection. AdventHealth is dedicated to making it simple and stress-free to schedule and complete a mammogram, offering:
- Easy online scheduling
- Quick appointments (often in 30 minutes or less)
- Convenient locations at hospital breast centers and outpatient imaging centers in AdventHealth Care Pavilions
- Contactless pre-registration from your mobile phone or tablet
- No physician script needed if you are:
- Over 40 years old
- Have no breast symptoms
- Haven’t had a mammogram in the last year*
For more information about how and where to get a mammogram, visit: scheduleyourmammo.com
Community Events and Resources
Throughout October, AdventHealth is hosting free events across the region, which include:
- Breast health education
- Giveaways
- On-site mammogram scheduling and mobile mammography services
For a list of events near you, visit: AdventHealth Breast Cancer Awareness Events AdventHealth Events
Fast Facts About Breast Cancer:
- Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide.
- Early detection can reduce the risk of dying from breast cancer by 25% or more.
- Women over 40 should have annual mammograms, even if they have no symptoms.
This October, let’s stand together in pink. Light your porch, schedule your screening, and help save lives. Pick up your free pink lightbulb at an AdventHealth Care Pavilion and join us in making a visible difference in our community.