Avalon Park Sun Orlando January 2021 Edition

KEEPING THE NEWS LOCAL.... AND THE COMMUNITY CONNECTED. VOLUME 2 EDITION 1

JANUARY 2021

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Happy Healthy New Year!

Now, more than ever, is a great time to kick off the year with a fresh and healthy focus by introducing the community to a collaborative health alliance called “Live Well.”

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Live Well is an East Orlando Health Alliance of community health providers in all areas, including mind, body and spirit. This program was born out of a grant awarded to Avalon Park Group in 2016, called “Working Well” from Advent Health, to become one of the healthiest companies in Central Florida to work for. One of the determining factors of the award was that the company would take the information learned over the three-year grant period and launch it into the Avalon Park communities.

After completing the company program successfully, and subsequently navigating through a pandemic in 2020, the timing is right to introduce the tools developed to the community through the Live Well health initiative. Understanding that there are many components to a holistic healthy lifestyle, Avalon Park Group and Advent Health went into the community to find additional health partners, like the YMCA, local churches, schools and mental health counselors to collaborate and add new education, programs and other resources for the community.

Last year the committee surveyed the community and based on the feedback from the community, this is the first step into making Avalon Park and East Orlando the healthiest community in Central Florida.

The Live Well committee is excited to introduce a few of these resources to you this month:

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COMMUNITY UPDATES

1. Monthly Challenge- Each month a new challenge calendar will be released encouraging you to get your body moving.

(See January Calendar in the Community

Corner Section) 2. Live Well Trail- A 5K (3.1 mile) loop has been outlined in the community and marked by the signs below. Each month we will be adding new challenges and tips to the trail. To see the full route visit here.

3. Avalon Bike Share Program- COMING SOON! The program will continue to evolve by adding health education and resources to the community. If you are interested in getting involved or have resources you would like to share, please contact us via email at Info@ AvalonParkGroup.com.

For more information on Live Well and to stay up to date with new resources, please visit us online.

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Coffee Hour with BEAT his past is condemned to repeat it and paying a high price.”

2021 . . . ..Is History Repeating Itself?

I personally think that if one believes that the world is turning differently in these times and that we can’t learn from history, they are making a mistake.

Is it still relevant today, what caused the downfall of the Roman empire, or can we identify something for today’s society when we analyze what factors led to the French revolution? Winston Churchill warned the house of commons not to think in the short term and to not just pay attention to headlines when he said, “Those who are not able to learn from history are condemned to repeat it.” While that was over 70 years ago, I think it fits the current social media age well. This philosophy goes back even further, as Churchill borrowed his quote from the Spanish philosopher George Santayana who wrote in his book, “The Life of Reason” that “Somebody who is not remembering

For myself, I believe post-COVID-19, we will experience a new iteration of the “Roaring This analysis is often Twenties.” One hundred used to analyze war acyears ago, just ahead tivities. An example is of the roaring twenties, the various wars of the was World War 1. Addifferent armies against ditionally, 1918 to 2020, Russia. Sweden learned the Spanish Flu was inin the 17th century how fecting about 1/3 of the difficult it is to win world’s population. Afagainst Russia, how hard ter those horrific years, people around the globe the winter is. A century later Napoleon made the were hungry to live. same mistake, and in the The spirit of the Roaring second World War, hisTwenties was marked by tory repeated itself when a general feeling of novGermany lost almost 1 elty associated with momillion troops by trying dernity and a break with to take Moscow during tradition. Everything the winter. seemed possible through

2020 HAS NOT ONLY BEEN A TURNING POINT FOR AVALON PARK GROUP, IT HAS BEEN ONE OF OUR MOST ACTIVE YEARS EVER! modern technology such Often, we are told that as cars, movies, and rahistory is not anymore so dio. By the middle of the important, because the decade, prosperity was world is different than it widespread, with the was 100 years ago. But second half of the decade even while new trends known, as “the Golden are developing, they can Twenties.” often be found rooted in the past, because human I think 2020 will be nature has not changed. that game-changer and COVID-19 will be reWe often think that this membered as a turning time things will be difpoint. ferent, and while events from the past will not be COVID-19 has served as an engine of innovarepeated exactly, similarities between the past tion. Under lockdown, and present will always e-commerce as a share of exist.

American retail sales increased as much in eight

weeks as it had in the previous five years. As people stayed in Avalon Park, almost overnight, businesses began to run from spare rooms and kitchen tables, an experiment that would otherwise have taken years to unfold, if ever.

While this disruption is in its infancy, COVID-19 is proof that change is possible even in conservative industries like energy, education, or health care.

2020 has not only been a turning point for Avalon Park Group, it has been one of our most active years ever. Ask any of my 7 Senior Vice Presidents (we are working a combined 80! years together), and they all will tell you 2020 has been our busiest year ever!

And it is just the beginning.

While we should always proceed with caution, remember, the Roaring Twenties was also followed by the great depression, I encourage us to take the turn into health and prosperity this year. I am hopeful the vaccine will succeed; I am optimistic for a great 2021 and beyond.

Wishing You a Happy and Healthy New Year!

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10 Exercises To Do At Home— No Equipment Necessary!

If you have ever resisted exercising due to lack of time, space, equipment, or hesitancy about visiting a gym, worry not—you aren’t alone! To bring in the new year, here’s the good news: you can engage in an effective workout just about anywhere, simply by using your own body weight! While not as complex as the machines at the gym, bodyweight exercises are simple, sufficient, and can help to improve strength, coordination, flexibility, and endurance.

Here are 10 at-home exercises to try out and see for yourself!

For beginners, 3 sets of 10 repetitions of these exercises are standard, unless otherwise noted. Can’t seem to figure out how to do one of the below exercises? A quick YouTube or Google search will teach you instantly!

1. Regular Push-Ups: Everyone knows what a push-up is, and there’s a reason for that: push-ups work many parts of your body, from your chest to your legs. Keep your hands shoulder-width apart, bend your elbows to bring your chest as close to the floor as possible, and then push back up.

2. Planks: Planking is infamous for building abs and core strength. Lie on your stomach with your forearms on the floor, extend your legs, and push up on your toes. Hold this position for at least 30 seconds until you can no longer hold it.

3. Glute Bridges: Sitting for long periods of time, whether it be for work, travel, or another reason, can cause your hip and thigh muscles to tighten up.

Glute bridges instantly combat this. Lie down on your back with your legs bent, feet flat on the floor, and arms by your side. Squeeze your abs and glutes while pushing up through your feet to lift your hips off the floor until your body is in a semi-straight line. Slowly lower your hips back to the ground and repeat.

4. Squats: Similar to glute bridges, squats are great for activating leg and glute muscles that tighten up during the day. Stand up with your feet between hip- and shoulder-width distance apart, slightly turning your toes outward. Bend your knees while keeping your chest up, clasping your hands in front for extra balance, and then press through your feet to stand back up.

5. Burpees: Burpees are one of the most effective full-body workouts, and while they may seem intimidating, they aren’t—they are merely a mix of squats and push-ups, two exercises that we have already covered! Start in a low squat position with your hands on the floor. In one motion, kick both of your feet backwards to put you into a push-up position; do one push-up, bring your feet forward to return to a low-squat, leap up as high as possible, and then return to a low squat position to complete one round.

6. Wall Sits: Another great way to work your glutes and legs are through wall sits—who even needs a chair? Stand with your back against a wall and slowly slide down until your thighs are parallel to the floor. This should resemble what it looks like to sit in a chair. Keeping your back straight, hold this position for at least 30 seconds.

7. Flutter Kicks: Like a plank, flutter kicks are a surefire way to fire up your abs. Lie down on your back with your arms at your sides, palms facing down. Extend your legs, lift your heels a few inches off the floor (4 to 6 is ideal!), and move your legs up and down in quick, small pulses.

8. Bird Dogs: Despite its name, the Bird Dog is a great exercise for building balance and endurance.

Get down on all fours with your hands underneath your shoulders and your knees underneath your

hips. Extend your neck to a neutral position by looking down at the floor and simultaneously extend your left leg back and right arm forward. Hold for a few seconds, and then repeat with your right leg back and left arm forward, alternating every time.

9. Crunches and Sit-Ups: While to some these exercises are synonymous, they differ in movement and activation of certain muscles. If you’re looking for a sole core workout, do crunches: lie on your back with your knees bent and your hands behind your head. Use your core to curl your abs and neck slightly, then return to the starting position.

If you want to work your core, lower back, legs, and hips, opt for sit-ups: start in the same position as a crunch, but instead of only lifting slightly, lift your body until your chest reaches your knees. It may help to hook your feet under the couch or put a heavy book on your feet in order to lift all the forward.

10. Dancing and Running in Place: Dancing and/or running are two good ways to increase your heart rate and achieve aerobic exercise. To run in place, utilize the same movements used when running distance: pumping your arms while alternating legs.

To make this as effective as running outside or on a treadmill, challenge yourself to lift your legs higher than your normally would, and move quickly for 30 to 60 second intervals. A less rigid and arguably more fun alternative to running in place is dancing.

Whether you learn a routine from YouTube or move freely to the music, dancing to a few songs in a row has the same effects as running, while also sending a good boost of dopamine to the brain.

For more information on The Flats Apartment Living in Downtown Avalon Park, call 407-273-4337 or email Info@TheFlatsAtAvalonPark.com.

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From the Desk of Commissioner

Maribel Gomez Cordero Dear Residents of Avalon Park, As we enter 2021, we are faced with new challenges ahead to tackle together. These unprecedented times have changed the way we live our day by day. Our County Government continues to work to slow the spread of COVID-19, and provide assistance to those vulnerable residents in our community, but more importantly, to provide hope.

Our County has received our shipment of vaccines, with a focus on EMS workers in Orange County. For the next phase of the COVID-19 vaccination, the Florida Department of Health in Orange County is rolling out a strategy to vaccinate the 65+ population in Orange County. Stay updated by visiting ocfl.net/Vaccine. Download the 5932-330436 Randal Park ER OBJ DBI - Print Ad.pdf

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OCFL Alert app or text OCFLCOVID to 888777 to receive vaccine updates.

You can also provide your email address at ocfl.net/Vaccine to stay updated. Beginning Monday, Jan. 4, 3-11 will be able to help register residents and help those with language barriers register to make vaccination appointments. Orange County Government’s Health Services Department has extended COVID-19 testing through January 30, 2021 at Barnett Park. The testing site will continue to operate 7 days per week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

My thoughts are with all those who have been impacted by this pandemic. Please remember to wear your mask, social distance, and wash your hands often. As always, if you need assistance, please call or email my office. Stay safe!

12/30/20

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AWARD-WINNING CARE

CLOSER TO HOME. COMING TO SOUTHEAST ORLANDO IN 2021 We believe every community deserves access to world-class care, which is why we’re opening a 15-acre medical pavilion in Randal Park. This new facility includes an ER, helipad, imaging and laboratory services, all designed to make exceptional healthcare more convenient for southeast Orlando communities.

OrlandoHealth.com/RandalParkER

A Service of Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital

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What Could 2021 Mean for the Housing Market?

This year has been nonstop uncertainty. The coronavirus pandemic led to shutdowns and major changes to our everyday lives. Those changes are likely to continue as we head into winter.

Cities have been hard-hit, not only in terms of public health, but also economically.

Despite everything, the housing market is one thing that’s been consistently strong this year. So, what do experts think next year will bring? Will that positivity hold steady, or are we in for a bust?

Rising Prices If inventory remains low into early 2021, it’s possible that home prices will continue to go up. The median asking price for properties in September 2020, according to Realtor.com, was $350,000. That’s up 11% compared to last year. Inventory has declined 39%

While there are some indicators of positivity, there are also potential negatives that could come into play.

Unemployment numbers are still high, and rolling lockdowns throughout the winter could cause those numbers to rise. Some predict that foreclosures could also rise as a result.

year-over-year, despite a quick burst of new listings in August. Increased demand and a dwindling supply are great for sellers but not so much for buyers.

Suburbs Reign Supreme There has been a shift in interest away from urban areas, as many people are packing up to find homes with more space and less proximity to others. Some of the most popular areas in 2020 have included Colorado Springs, CO; Reynolds-

When facing uncertainty and anxiety, there’s a tendency among consumers and would-be homebuyers burg, OH; and Rochester, to hoard their cash. Personal NY. We could see continued savings rates have actually flight from urban areas to gone up recently, but that suburbs in 2021. means there may be less spending going on, particBuilder Confidence ularly on bigger items like Despite all of the headwinds houses. and what feels like a barrage of negative informaFinally, while there are tion, there is some optimism some unnerving indicators, in housing starts. Consumer we do know with almost confidence was high in Sepcertainty that record-low tember, and builder sentimortgage rates will hold. ment similarly seems to be The fed has signaled their at an all-time high. intention to keep rates low for the foreseeable future.

Could There Be Downsides?

Why Lenders Use Gross Monthly Income vs. Take-Home Pay It might seem strange that mortgage companies use gross monthly income when determining affordability instead of ‘takehome’ pay. After all, it’s the take-home pay that consumers use for their monthly expenses and bills - including the mortgage.

But there are a few good reasons why lenders use the gross amount.

There are a few loans that do take monthly expenses and ‘residual’ income into consideration, but most every other program uses gross monthly income.

no shortage of online preThird, employers report in- qualification calculators to come each year to the IRS, help you get started. Just and the amount reported remember to enter your is gross income, not net. gross monthly income, not When consumers are asked your net or take-home pay, to document income on so you don’t short-change their loan application, the Second, it’s a figure that yourself. most consumers readilast two years of W2 forms ly know. Calculating net are needed along with Visit www.TopOrlandoincome with taxes, deduc- recent paystubs. The gross Homes.com for more inforamounts on the paystubs tions, etc. is complicated mation. should align with the W2 and can vary month-tomonth. Gross income is forms. Trying to parse net stable and easier to quickly income from these docuFirst, it’s universal. Lendcalculate monthly. It would ments is impossible. ers A, B, and C all use gross monthly income to be impossible for lenders If you’re thinking about calculate debt-to-income to adjust their loan proratio (and thus affordabili- grams for each individual’s buying your first home and want to know what you ty), so everyone is qualified specific expenses and deusing the same guidelines. ductions. might qualify for, there’s

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How to Prepare a Diabetes - Friendly Dinner From glazed hams and roasted turkeys to decadent pies and desserts, the holidays are known to be a time for people to enjoy the delicious flavors of all their favorite foods. However, big holiday meals are also typically loaded with sugar and carbs, making it a difficult time of the year for those in our lives who have diabetes. If a senior loved one, friend, or family member at your holiday table has diabetes, here are some tips on how to create a diabetes-friendly dinner that everyone will enjoy.

Planning Your Diabetes-Friendly Dinner Fortunately, many foods at your holiday table are already perfect for a diabetes-friendly dinner. A naturally lean meat like turkey is great for diabetic guests because it has zero carbs. Furthermore, grilled and roasted vegetable side dishes are also a great choice, and they taste great too.

However, not all dishes are as friendly. A side dish like stuffing is full of carbs and sugar, making it not a particularly diabetic-friendly option. For dishes like this, we recommend either changing

some of the ingredients to make it healthier, like using whole-grain bread instead of white, or skipping it completely. As a rule of thumb, avoid foods rich with sugar and carbs.

Be Mindful of Time Managing diabetes is all about paying attention to time. This can be an issue because it always seems like dishes take longer to prepare than we intend. Before the dinner,

be sure to tell your diabetic guests when the expected dinner time will be so that they can plan their insulin intake around then. That being said, when hosting someone with diabetes, it’s also a good idea to prepare healthy appetizers if the food takes longer than expected. Have some assorted nuts and cheeses on hand for your diabetic guests to nibble on so their blood sugar doesn’t go down while they wait for dinner to be served.

Ad Discounts for Chamber Members!

NEW Chamber Members enjoy a FREE advertisement in one edition of your choice + 15% off each ad in the remaining months of 2020!

EXISITING Chamber Members enjoy 50% off your first advertisement + 15% off each ad in the remaining months of 2020!

The Publication date is the 1st of the month or the 1st Monday of the month.

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Call us today at 407-270-7500 for more information or to schedule a virtual tour.

Attention Chamber Members!

Our Mission

The Avalon Park Sun seeks to effectively reflect upon the vitality of our community through the distribution of purposeful community news.

Working to clarify and bring acknowledgement to the individuals and events that embody Avalon Park and surrounding communities, the ongoing goal is to improve upon the quality, content, and reach that is presented throughout each issue.

Reach Your Audience

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Please fill out the form on our website below with all of the details for your advertisement!

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Fill out the form here: AvalonParkSun.com/Advertising and use code “NEWCHAMBERDISCOUNT” or “CHAMBERDISCOUNT” For more details email Infor@AvalonParkSun.com or call 407-658-6565

https://avalonparksun.com/advertising Use codes: “NEWCHAMBERDISCOUNT” for new members and “CHAMBERDISCOUNT” for existing members.

Healthy Eating at Encore at Avalon Park As time goes on, it can be difficult for seniors to navigate and maintain their health on their own.

Fortunately, the caring staff at Encore at Avalon Park are trained and equipped to make life easy for our seniors during the holidays and year-round. Not only do our seniors enjoy fun recreational and social activities, but they also enjoy comfortable accommodations and healthy meals that adhere to their individual physical and dietary needs. If you’re looking for a new living solution for your senior loved one, then consider Encore at Avalon Park — the premier assisted living community in Central Florida.

Contact us at (407) 658-6565 or Info@AvalonParkSun.com with any questions!

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With overnight temperatures forecast to dip into the 40s, Central Floridians are likely considering turning the heat on – which can cause their energy bills to spike. OUC has a few tips to help keep your energy bill low this winter through energy efficiency and weatherproofing. Here are some tips: • If you’re going to turn your heat on, set the thermostat to 68 degrees and switch the fan to auto. Lowering your thermostat is the easiest and most effective way to lower your bill, and every degree makes a difference.

• To save even more, lower your thermostat to 65 degrees or cooler at night and when you’re away from home.

• Space heaters, electric blankets and layering your clothes are also ways to keep warm without turning up the heat.

• If you’re turning on a space heater to heat a room, keep it at least three feet away from furniture, bedding, walls, clothing and other flammable items.

• If you’re using an electric blanket to stay toasty, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and never tuck it into your bed.

• Now is the time to switch out your air filter if you haven’t recently. A dirty filter can increase the strain on your heating unit and increase operating costs.

• Check your windows and doors for any gaps in the weather-stripping that can cause heat to escape.

• At night, close blinds or drapes to help keep cold air out. During the day, open blinds and drapes to let the warm sunshine in.

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Timber Creek HS Wolves Update Stay up to date with Timber Creek High School Athletics this Winter Season!

This season consists of Boy’s Basketball, Girl’s Basketball, Boy’s Soccer, Girl’s Soccer, Boy’s Wrestling, Girl’s Wrestling, Coed Wrestling, Girl’s Powerlifting, and Girl’s Competitive Cheerleading. Click here for the January Calendar!

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Pinecrest Academy Avalon Park Update

Pinecrest Academy Avalon K-5 is an elementary Charter school that opened in August 2018 welcoming their first class of students and has grown rapidly since then.

Pinecrest currently operates with about 400 students in their K-5th grades.

Pinecrest Academy utilizes Project Lead the Way as their STEM curriculum. Project Lead the Way helps the students engage in the material hands-on, get inspired through learning and empowers them to solve real-world problems. Pinecrest also offers Spanish, Music and Art classes to their students in addition to the traditional classes. These additional classes allow their students to think outside of the box and retain more information at a young age.

What sets Pinecrest Academy apart from other schools is their brand. Pinecrest holds communication extremely high in their values. They strongly encourage the families of their students to volunteer at the school and play an active role in their child’s education. They send out weekly newsletters to families informing them of everything taking place that week. Pinecrest Academy takes pride in their Open-Door Policy and they appreciate all feedback from students and their families. In order to make their school a better place, they listen and act in their best efforts when a problem is brought to their attention.

of teaching allows the students that are in the classroom and the students at home to communicate and interact as they would if they were all together. Pinecrest is also now prepared for the return of more students transitioning from at-home learning to in-person learning.

They are equipped with sanitizing protocols, masks, distancing measures and other safety procedures to ensure the health of their students, faculty and staff.

Currently, Pinecrest is operating with only about 30% of their students back in the classroom, and they expect to see more students during the new year.

The faculty and staff at Pinecrest Academy have a huge heart for education and for each of the students enrolled in their school. While speaking to Principal Yasmeen Khan about Pinecrest Academy, she asked her three children (all of which attend Pinecrest in Kindergarten, 1st grade and 3rd grade) how they felt about their school, they all responded, “We love our school and our teachers!” Pinecrest is a jewel in the middle of Avalon Park, which is a family centered community that exemplifies the true values of a school like Pinecrest Academy.

Important Dates to Remember: Monday, January 4, 2021 - Begin 2nd Semester Friday, January 15, 2021 - Report cards sent home Monday, January 18, 2021 - Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday (No School)

Since COVID-19 had such an impact on in-person learning and the ways schools functioned normally, Learn more about Pinecrest by visiting https://www.

Pinecrest Academy had to adapt. Pinecrest added their pinecrestavalonk5.com/# “Classroom of the Future” which makes in-person and virtual learning possible at the same time. This new way

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Timber Creek HS Student Authors Three Timber Creek students have been featured in an anthology release titled ‘The Gathering’ that is now available on Amazon and at Barnes and Noble. Congratulations to these student authors!! Purchase your copy here!

click here to Register online today or call (407) 380-3444!

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Avalon Eatery to Open Restaurant in Downtown Avalon Park Grand Opening Set for January 2021

Avalon Park Group announced that Avalon Eatery has leased 2,500 SF of restaurant space at 13001 Founder’s Square Drive #100, Orlando, FL 32828, in the heart of Downtown Avalon Park and is slated to open January 2021.

Angie and Claudio Cellucci, owners and chefs of Avalon Eatery, became familiar with Avalon Park as frequent participants in the Avalon Food Truck Nights with their GoodaFooda truck.

After two years on the road, they retired the truck and transitioned into their first brick and mortar space in Oviedo. The Cellucci’s have partnered with family members Lisa and Joe Bocomozo since day one and together they have made the choice to pass the GoodaFooda torch to Lisa and Joe which allows Angie & Claudio to focus on The Eatery which will be their sole location. The Celluccis said

menu that expands the dining options for east Orlando residents,” says Mara Hunt, Broker of Record for Avalon Park Realty and CEO of M Real Estate.

“The experience that Angie and Claudio bring will create a superior level of service and quality, in addition to the distinct menu.”

fast, lunch and dinner, as well as Sunday Brunch. The menu will feature popular items from the truck like “I knew from the min- the Award-Winning ute I pulled into Avaloaded fries but have lon Park for the first expanded the menu time, that we were at to include items like home,” said Angie Cel- gnocchi, hand pressed lucci. “I cannot wait to empanadas, wings and share our new expand- a full beer and wine ed menu with our new list. Additional plans neighbors.” include outdoor dining and family-driven Avalon Eatery will be events. a full-service restaurant, open 7 days a “The Avalon Eatery week, offering breakis bringing a diverse that it is comforting to know that GoodaFooda will remain in the family.

For more information visit www.AvalonEatery.com or contact 407-906-9933. They are also on Facebook and Instagram social media with the handle @AvalonEatery.

Downtown Avalon Park, developed and managed by Avalon Park Group, is east Orlando’s premier community to live, learn, work and play. For an up-to-date listing of the 90+ shops, restaurants and professional services visit the full online directory at www.

AvalonPark.com.

If you are interested in having your Avalon Park business featured as a Business of the Week, please reach out to us for more details: Info@AvalonParkSun.com! We would love to answer any questions you might have!

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ORLANDO UPDATE Meet the Member

Isabella Johnston founder of Intern Pursuit

The 5th Floor, an international co-working space at the Avalon Innovation Center is scheduled for Spring 2021. With it, an influx of entrepreneurs is coming on the scene in Downtown Avalon Park.

The Intern Pursuit Software Platform, one of the finalists in the Avalon Innovation Awards 2020 competition, is among the 28+ companies that will occupy this state-of-the-art pro-working office space.

Isabella Johnston, CEO and founder of Intern Pursuit’s software platform, identified an opportunity in the market to make intern recruitment and management fast, affordable, and a positive experience for employers and students alike. Intern Pursuit’s proprietary algorithm matches employers and students based on job preferences, top 6 trending PowerSkills and culture fit.

Additional platform features include 2 types of assessments, individual development plans and an employer learning academy. The software is designed to provide interns and

employers with the best resources necessary for a productive and measurable internship.

The Covid-19 pandemic accelerated the need to innovate and improve intern management that included remote opportunities for employers both nationally and internationally.

President and CEO of the Avalon Park Group, Beat Kahli, shares the same vision to expand internship opportunities globally. Kahli stated, “As an international entrepreneur, I appreciate Intern Pursuit’s efforts to provide more international internships in the United States, while supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs as they grow.”

Kahli and a group of international judges selected 28 finalists from over 150 applicants to fund through

cash, space and services. Intern Pursuit Software Platform was one of the 28 companies chosen as the ground-breaking leaders in this APG cohort.

One of the key standouts to the international jury was Johnston’s innovative marketing approach to take the product to market. In order to provide a well-packaged educational experience for employers and students alike, Johnston also created The Intern Whisperer Podcast.

Affiliated with the Intern Pursuit platform, The Intern Whisperer Podcast allows employers to share their company’s origin story, predictions for both industry and job opportunities five years from now, and share mentoring advice to the student listening audience.

Intern Pursuit gamified their marketing approach to reach the game industry by launching the Intern Pursuit Game on Steam. The game is a third-person tower defense game where players must use critical thinking, problem solving, and other key trending PowerSkills to save the world and while earning talent.

For more information on Intern Pursuit, visit https://www.internpursuit.tech/ or reach out to Isabella Johnston at email: info@internpursuit.tech or office number: 321-4222166.

15 Things Successful Entrepreneurs Do to Start Every Day—and Year!—On the Right Foot As a new year approaches, hope is high, and expectations are even higher. It is easy to buy into the promise of New Year’s resolutions and then quickly become disappointed in yourself for not sticking to them. If you, like I, find yourself in this position year after year, let’s try something new: creating and engaging in small practices and habits to improve our quality of life, all without the feelings of failure that come from not sticking to huge resolutions. Here is a list of 15 things successful entrepreneurs do every day to start on the right foot—and you don’t even have to be an entrepreneur to do them!

Year’s resolutions or expecting to amass a million dollars within the next ten years (although these are great goals to have!). Rather, I mean setting small, attainable, short-term goals, such as not procrastinating on a work project or exercising 5 times a week. When you begin by placing huge expectations, you will more often than not feel disappointed in yourself; creating shorter-term, easier goals, however, will fill you with a deep sense of pride and accomplishment upon reaching them. Start small and you will surprise yourself, which, in turn, builds the self-confidence that will eventually allow you to create and achieve larger, long-term goals.

1. Reading: Reading daily is proven to benefit all people, regardless of who you are and what you do. Reading has positive effects on memory and other cognitive functions, among which include teaching empathy and life experience, improving vocabulary and communication skills, keeping your mind active and fostering creativity. Setting aside 30 minutes a day to read—whether it be a novel, biography, or newspaper—is a peaceful act that relaxes you while also benefiting your brain’s many functions and abilities.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Fail: The truth is, nothing grows inside of your comfort zone—so how can you unless you take risks? Few people become successful by playing it safe; if you’re sinking all your shots, you’re probably not aiming high enough. Sure, you’ll start out by hearing one “yes” for every ten “no’s,” but that’s more than growth—it’s vulnerability. If being vulnerable doesn’t come easily to you, watch Brené Brown’s “The Power of Vulnerability” TED Talk. She says it best: “vulnerability is not weakness; it’s our greatest measure of courage.”

And courage is key to success.

2. Sleeping Well: It is not uncommon to hear that a trait shared by many strong and lucrative people is that they wake up early, because it is for good reason: sleeping well and on a good schedule is thought to be one of the most underestimated yet important aspects of being successful.

Creating and sticking to a sleep schedule can affect every aspect of one’s life, from appearances to decision making. Sleep is a pause button, allowing you to recharge while your subconscious examines and analyzes current situations and challenges, which is helpful especially to a successful entrepreneur.

3. Exercise: We live in a society that places the most value on looks resulting from exercise, which is why it is necessary that we, ourselves, autonomously choose to place greater value on the mental and physical health benefits that come from exercising. If you’re unsure where to start, you can refer to my article “10 Exercises To Do At Home—No Equipment Necessary!” for some ideas. Just one hour of exercise and time outdoors per day is a habit that produces lifelong results.

4. Setting Goals: When I say “setting goals,” I’m not talking about New

6. Building Connections: Tying into the notion of vulnerability is the idea of building and maintaining meaningful relationships. Above all else is the human need for connection—the longing to belong—and this is achieved through vulnerability and emotional intelligence. Rather than investing only money, invest in relationships, too: creating a network of people you understand and who understand you pays off big time in the world of business.

7. Journaling: Journaling daily is a habit that incorporates and improves multiple facets of your life. Writing down your goals is journaling; filling out a calendar with deadlines and meetings is journaling; writing down dreams, things about your day, and feelings is journaling. It all boils down to the mindful acts of reflecting, thinking, and planning for the future, which can help to increase motivation as well as staying in touch with your mental and emotional well-being.

Continued on next page...

WORK (Cont.) ness is the idea that many successful entrepreneurs claim to practice gratitude daily. This can be done in a journal, through an app, or even in your head—all it takes is acknowledging a few things you are grateful for and meditating on them for a short period of time. Not only can practicing gratitude help your business flourish, but it helps to set you and your business apart from a sea of others and can also serve as the key to creating or solidifying important relationships.

12. Eating Well: As this list continues to grow, a few common threads can be found throughout all sections—one of them being teaching and stimulating your brain. You can follow all of the tips this article offers and not see results if you do not engage with this tip, as well: eating well and healthy. Maintaining good nutrition and fueling yourself with healthy foods is the most direct way to impact energy levels and brain output. Loading up on carbs, sugar, and processed foods can seriously decrease your energy and productivity levels, which can detriment both your body and your quality of work.

8. Do the Hardest Thing First: Like Mark Twain once said, “Eat that frog:” get the most-feared thing out of the way first. Whether the task is the hardest, scariest, or longest task of the day, doing it first to get it over with is the route which ultimately causes the least amount of stress. As soon as you get the hard thing out of the way, you free up a large amount of time and energy to complete your other easier or less stressful tasks.

9. Be Mindful: In the same vein of exercising and journaling is the concept of mindfulness, or the state of being conscious and aware of the present moment. This is something that takes practice, and exercising, journaling, and meditating are a few of the easiest ways to do so. Successful people are intensely focused on whatever it is they are doing, whether it’s giving a work project acute attention, producing the most effective results from a meeting, or absorbing information from a book. The key to mindfulness is noticing when your attention shifts from the task at hand to something else, recognizing that shift, and refocusing on the task. This brings a sense of peace while also ensuring that the best work is being achieved.

10. Fostering a Creative Hobby: Although entrepreneurship is not widely thought of as a creative venture, creativity is necessary for a successful entrepreneur. In order to keep up with the speed and demands of business in the twenty-first century, many successful business people dabble in a creative hobby. Just as reading gets the creative wheels turning, so too do things such as playing music, drawing, painting, and writing. Not only will a creative hobby maximize your output of creative ideas, but it also serves as a great way to unwind and practice the previously-mentioned idea of mindfulness.

13. Staying Organized: While the concept of being organized differs from person to person, the main goal of organization is to make the most out of your time and keep your brain and body in order.

Whether it be creating daily to-do lists, keeping a clean workspace, or making sure your inbox is decluttered, committing to your personal organization routine is what’s most important in order for you to be your best and most productive self.

14. Unplug Yourself: In a world that’s both physically and digitally demanding, it is important and necessary to take breaks from social media and technological devices when you need to. Keeping up with your social status and digital presence is extremely exhausting, so unless you’re a social media influencer or have another job that is centered around social media, time away from technology gives your mind and body a chance to slow down and recharge when your battery is drained.

15. Learn to Say No: One of the most demanding aspects of working and/or running a business is the amount of decision making that takes place. At all times, there are so many variables and things to consider that make saying “yes” even easier than it already is. However, learning to set boundaries and say no is crucial to maintaining focus and productivity. If you are unsure whether saying yes to a new project will affect your ability to manage and complete your current projects, say no—be mindful of what you are already juggling and how to complete your tasks to their fullest potential, instead.

For more information how your business can connect and collaborate with The 5th Floor Co-Working team, please call 407-658-6565 or email Info@The5thFloor.us.

By: Raven Halle

11. Practicing Gratitude: Yet another tie into the notion of mindful-

Elevate your business with a unique marketing video or a creative live event.

With over 30 years in the entertainment industry Marsico Creative can help take your business to another level.

WORK (Cont.)

BBQ 50’s Spiked Winter Treat: Whitley County Bourbon Balls!

BBQ 50 is rooted in family traditions and wants to share those traditions with you through some of their great recipes. Like this one for Whitley County Kentucky Bourbon Balls.

3 cups crushed Nilla Wafer cookies 1 1/2 cup chopped candied pecans (Publix) 5 tablespoons Kentucky Bourbon (Woodford preferred) 3 tablespoons White Karo syrup 1 cup powdered sugar Set aside powdered sugar. Combine rest of ingredients until well mixed. Use your hands. Roll balls into walnut sized. Roll in powered sugar bowl. Do not cook. Store in an airtight container lined with enough wax paper to blanket over the balls inside the container. Don’t keep in zip lock as it’ll smash the balls. No one likes smashed balls.

Don’t eat too many at once!! Enjoy!!

Immediate Career Opportunities Available!! ®

NAUTIQUE.COM

Nautique Boat Company is celebrating 95 years of excellence building world renowned boats in Orlando. Nautique is a subsidiary of Correct Craft and has been on the waters of the world with a passion for innovation since 1925.

Nautique values people, performance and philanthropy with a passion for making a difference.

Do you love to work with your hands and create quality, award winning products? Would you like to be part of a team that builds the world’s best watersports boats? Do you have experience working with hand tools and small power tools? If so, here is your opportunity to put those skills to work, earning great pay while being part of a team that takes great pride in building a high-performance, quality product.

Nautique Boat Company currently has 50+ job openings that need to be filled immediately Some of the open positions include: Upholstery Assemblers, Grinders, Lamination Technicians, Gel Coat/Fiberglass Technicians, and multiple various Assembler positions.

Nautique offers competitive entry level pay starting at $13 - $15 per hour depending upon experience.

Shift hours are normally 5:30am – 4:00pm, Monday – Thursday (overtime may be required at times due to the needs of the business) In addition to competitive pay, there are great benefits including: • Incentive Bonus Plans • Health, Dental, Vision, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability, Company Paid Life Insurance, Voluntary Life Insurance, and Flexible Spending Accounts • 401(k) Plan • Paid Holidays • Paid Time Off (PTO) • Education Assistance • Job Stability

For detailed information on these positions or to apply online, please visit the “Careers” section at:

www.nautique.com

WORK (Cont.)

2020 Events

CLICK HERE FOR FULL DIRECTORY!

July 4th October 9th - 10th October 24th

4th of July Oktoberfest Spooktacular

November 26th December 5th December 5th

Turkey Trot Avalon Aglow Grace Foley Rock Your Socks 5K

Movie Under the Stars: 4th Fridays Monthly (Sept - April) Food Truck Nights: 3rd Sundays Monthly Fridays National Anthem: FB Live Noon

We Sell & Install: • Floor Tile • Wood-like Tile • Carpet • Laminate • Hardwood Floors • Baseboards

• Granite • Bathroom Tile • Kitchen Backsplash • Pavers • Custom Cabinets

Plus We Also Offer Professional Painting for Interior and Exterior

FLOORS, INC INC

& POLO PALM PALM PAINT PAINT PoloFloors@yahoo.com www.PoloFloors.com

407.988.3361

3738 Avalon Park E Blvd.

Orlando, FL 32828

My Florida Home Center Real Estate CONTACT ME FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS. Frank Kusiak, Broker Avalon Park Resident – 20 Years myfloridahomecenter@gmail.com 321-231-5586

EXPERIENCE MATTERS

KEEPING YOU SAFE BY BEING COVID-19 COMPLIANT CALL FOR YOUR CONSULTATION TODAY EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

WORK (Cont.)

A Fresh Start 2021

If we have learned nothing else from 2020, it was to expect the unexpected. What started out as a strong year, 2020 became a blur of never-ending masks, quarantines, shortages, fatigue, zoom meetings and, well you get the picture. I don’t know anyone that is not ready to put this year behind us. The East Orlando Chamber pivoted quickly early in the pandemic and has incorporated a mixture of virtual and hybrid events to meet the needs of businesses and the community. Cautiously welcoming 2021, we are focused on industry and the needs of our members making recovery possible.

attending the East Orlando Chamber January luncheon, January 27, 2021 from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM at Bonefish Grill Waterford. Register today for a memorable kick off to a New Year.

We have an exciting lineup for 2021 including our February 3rd Women in Successful Endeavors (WISE) luncheon featuring Women in Tech moderated by Avani Desai, President of Schellman & Company, Inc. hosted at The Celeste Hotel. OPTIC – Orlando Professional Technical Innovation Council is virtual March 12th from 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM focusing on Teleworking | Tele The Chamber is here to facilitate unique offerings to managing, inspiring employees and offering leadership elevate your businesses visibility and connect you with presented in partnership with Full Sail University. The others to help your business thrive. Testimonial Tuesday Connect 4 for Real Estate and Property Professionals is features our members on a live broadcast allowing them returning in collaboration with Orlando Regional Realto share personal and professional information with tors Association. And our Health Council Collaborative listeners. The Member Academy shows new members has partnered with the Physicians Society of Central how to use the valuable resources provided with hands- Florida, Orlando Medical News and Health Council of on training to jump start their chamber journey. Taking East Central Florida, to assist our healthcare professionit one step further, the EOCC Spark 365 Brain Trust is als and independent practices. There are plenty of benan intimate meeting of the minds helping to decode efits for our members, we strive to make your business problems, design solutions and offer leads our members thrive. desire.

For more information or to register call (407) 277-5951 or Starting in January, Pete Folch with Second Wind – Fin- visit our website at eocc.org. The East Orlando Chamber ish Strong, Inc. will inspire us as we celebrate our 2020 of Commerce everywhere East of I-4.

Chamber champions during our annual recognition luncheon and installation of our 2021 Board of Directors.

The Honorable Judge Eric Dubois will install our board as Karen Jensen (Orlando Health) passes the gavel to our 2021 Board Chair, Martha Santoni (Nemours Children’s Hospital). Redefine the possibilities for your success,

WORK (Cont.)

Click here for more information on their Facebook Trivia Nights! @Kaboone lifesupporttraining

PLAY A huge Thank You to FDSI Photography for perfectly capturing Avalon Park’s New Year’s Eve firework show!

Turkey Trot Virtual 5k Participants: The Jessee Family!

Congratulations to Brite Star Twirlers for Winning the Avalon Aglow Parade Performance!

PLAY (Cont.)

A Look Into Avalon Aglow Avalon All Star Cuts

Zamora Family

Nathali’s Bakery

Avalon Park POA

Wolfe Family

Zoey’s Dream Parties

Paez Family

Project Think Forward

Trustco Bank

Mila Realty

PLAY (Cont.)

Solymar Travel’s Travel Tip: Share the Joy with a Free Stateroom!

We know, you’re missing your friends, family and the ocean!

Make 2021 the year you get together and get away. Book a verandah stateroom or suite on select sailings and get a free interior stateroom* for family or friends traveling with you.

Guests in the Verandah stateroom or suite will also receive: • Free gratuities • Signature Beverage Package • Free One-night specialty dining • 10% off all shore excursions • 50% reduced deposit • Free and reduced fares for kids** Share the joy of travel in 2021. But don’t wait! This offer ends January 5. *Just pay taxes, fees & port expenses TRAVEL AGENCY EXCLUSIVE!!

PLUS receive up to $150 in onboard credit!

Solymar Travel 13013 Founders Square Dr Orlando, Fl 32828 407-203-5000

PLAY (Cont.)

The Show Must Go On

MCP is excited to con�nue live performance magic with the proper COVID-19 safety precau�ons!

Classes and rehearsals begin in January Register today at MagicCurtain.net/Register

Tickets on Sale Now MagicCurtain.net/Tickets

January 22 at 7:00 January 23 at 2:00 & 7:00 January 24 at 2:00

htps:/w .instagrm.co /magicurtainproductions/

Follow us on social media, sign up for our newsle�er or visit our website 2860 S. Alafaya Trail, Suite 120, Orlando, FL 32828 * 407-282-8368 * Newsletter@MCPTheater.comhttps://magiccurtain.net * www.MagicCurtain.net

ht ps:/ www.facebo k.com/MCPTheater/

Click here to enroll now!

htps:/w .instagrm.co /magicurtainproductions/

PLAY (Cont.)

WE ARE

STRONGER WITH YOU WELCOME BACK!

Let’s stay healthy together at the Avalon Park YMCA! Call 407-381-2512, visit ymcacf.org, or stop by the Avalon Park YMCA today to learn more about programs and membership.

For information about the Y’s enhanced safety measures and latest reopening details, please visit ymcacf.org/reopening.

The YMCA of Central Florida is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening our community.

DINING

PAPA GIO’S

PIZZERIA & RESTAURANT

3831 Avalon Park Blvd East, Orlando, FL 32828 (407) 380-3300 | www.papagios.com

DINING (Cont.)

Coming together to create a healthy community

Tips for Being a Mentor Because January is National Mentoring Month, we wanted to highlight the benefits for mentors and mentees! The YMCA of Central Florida has provided mentorship through our School programs like Teen Achievers and Links 2 Learning, and the benefits are clear: mentorship not only helps future generations be more prepared and empowered, but it can also help the mentor continue to build on their own skills like interpersonal communication and networking.

Growing up, you most likely looked to parents, siblings, and even teachers for guidance. They taught you how to go from crawling to walking to running, how to read and write and speak, and maybe even helped you discover your favorite hobby or develop a skill.

As we mature, though, our role models tend to turn into people that live and work in our area(s) of professional interest. This is where mentors come in! Mentors guide you to help you reach your educational and/or career goals, and also offer support from firsthand experience. If you’re inspired by a mentor you had once or just interested in assisting future generations, consider becoming a mentor and check out three ways that you can be great at it!

teract on a personal level.

They’ll pick up on things like your values and ethics, how you interact with other professionals in your network, and your methods on how you accomplish tasks. Be sure you’re aware of your own behavior, and showing patience as they learn! Also, don’t be afraid to admit mistakes you’ve made in the past. This honesty will show them that it’s human nature to mess up once in a while, but as long as you take responsibility, it can be an opportunity for growth.

Set Thorough Expectations While the idea of mentorship is understood, every single actual mentor/mentee relationship will vary to some degree based on a variety of factors. It’s important to set expectations in the beginning to ensure the dynamic will be a positive experience for both of you. Some other factors to communicate from the start include: • Management style. The type of leader you are will have a great influence on how exactly you mentor, and how you want to work together with the mentee.

• Communication process. How will you communicate? Consider things like would you prefer for them to communicate Lead by Example through email or would Before any professional you rather them call beassistance comes into play, tween 9:00 am and 5:00 remember that your men- pm. tee will see how you in-

• Measuring success.

Establish how you’ll tell if they’ve been successful with a specific activity or task you’ve presented them with.

Give Back More than You Receive Teens and young adults, especially ones with less experience, are more than likely going to feel overwhelmed as they start to break into the professional world. Be sure you’re always there to congratulate their successes! What may seem like a minor achievement to you can be a huge victory for them. Another way to support them is by offering as much helpful advice as possible. Keep in mind if your mentee

hasn’t been in the professional world for very long, they might not even have an idea of what types of questions to ask.

Mentoring can be a wonderfully rewarding experience for both the mentor and the person they’re helping. No matter how long the mentorship takes place—whether it’s one semester of school or for someone’s first year on the job—the impact on both the mentor and the mentee will last a lifetime! Find out how you can learn more about mentoring opportunities at mentoring. org.

RENEW RESTART REfocus your spirit, mind, and body at the Avalon Park Y! At the Y, you’ll build strong relationships, strong families, and strong communities, and so much more.

Call 407-381-2512, visit ymcacf.org, or stop by the Avalon Park YMCA today to learn more about programs and membership.

The YMCA of Central Florida is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening our community.

REinforced Safety Precautions

LIVE WELL (Cont.)

Live Well in 2021 Make 2021 your year, do all the things you have been wanting to do but have not had the chance.

Take the plunge and check things off your Bucket List this year. If you are feeling stuck, here is a list of ideas to make this year the most productive one yet, we all need it after 2020! or attending an event there is plenty of community fun 6. Reset your financial goals for the new year. to get in on, especially in Make a spreadsheet, orAvalon Park! ganize your spending, do 4. Find a hobby you enjoy what you personally need – indulge in that instead to do to become more financially stable this year. of being on your phone.

Saving $100/week for all of It is easy to get bogged down by life and work, 2021 will add up to $5,200 – make your own goal and make it a point this year to find something that you stick with it! are interested in and enjoy 2. Read at least one book doing. You do not have to 7. Make a time for exercise a month. Reading not only be the best at it, you just and monitor what you eat. clears your mind of all the have to enjoy doing it! Try This can be easy to lose everyday tasks, but it helps leaving your phone in the track of when you are so you learn. By reading at other room. busy, but it is one of the least one book a month, most important things to you will become more fo5. Take a class. No matmake time for. Exercising cused and knowledgeable can clear your mind and ter the type of class you on a variety of topics. choose, make sure it has make your body feel so much better. You do not relation to what you want 3. Get more involved with to learn. This class could have to do it every single your community. Now is be an exercise class, a yoga day but make it an effort to the time to do that thing class, a nutrition class, a be consistent. Eating better you have always wantis another thing that will design class, a financial ed to that is right in your change your life. It will class, the options are endcommunity. Whether it is less. Choose one and go make you feel better, give volunteering, joining a club forward with it! you more energy to take 1. Take a little more time for yourself - Wake up an hour earlier than you normally do. Everyone has that one thing that helps them reset and see a little clearer. Take this new time in the morning to do that thing each day. Life can get overwhelming, so make sure to check in with yourself!

New Year, New You

on the day and help you achieve any body goals you set for yourself. Everyone wants to feel good in their own skin!

8. Get the correct amount of sleep your body needs.

If this means going to bed earlier, make it a point to do that. With the right amount of sleep, your body will be more willing to perform all the tasks throughout your day without feeling lethargic.

9. Go for a walk or bike ride outside. Living in Florida, this is the easiest way to grab a breath of fresh air. Soak up the sunshine and head outside to follow Avalon Park’s brand-new Live Well trail!

By: Kenzie Farrish

Wellness with Jen

Hi, I am Jen, an oily lovin, fitness lovin, wellness lovin, life lovin momma and wife on a mission to guide others on their wellness journey.

My own journey began as I entered adulthood and realized that the world had lost sight of true health and wellness. The world that we live in today is extremely busy, causing wellness to be the last thing on our minds.

It is time to get back to a wellness mindset!

“New Year, New You” doesn’t have to mean a new

diet or any unrealistic changes that are impossible to maintain. When deciding on where your wellness journey begins, write down your main goals for the new you, choose a base goal, and start there. Maybe your goal for 2021 is to lose weight, but the thought of starting a new way of eating in addition to an exercise program seems too overwhelming, and therefore you never get started striving to meet your goal.

Why not start small? What feels least overwhelming to you? Maybe your first step is as small as cutting back to one soda per week, then one soda every two weeks or

once a month until you realize that you don’t need that soda anymore. Maybe your first step is taking one walk per week, which then turns into three walks per week or one walk with two classes at a local gym per week. Whatever you envision your “New Year, New You” journey to look like, you need to discover where you are at right now and start there!

Remember, if you are tired of starting over, stop giving up!

Jen Cosby: jcdiamondwellness@gmail. com https://www.facebook.com/

yljennifercosby https://www.facebook. com/groups/oilshowyouthewayed/ https://www.instagram. com/jen_cosby/ *I am not a doctor and do not claim to diagnose, treat, and/ or cure any ailment. I am only sharing my experiences and results of what I have found to be successful for myself and that of my family. I empower everyone to do their own research and decide what work best for them and their family. In the event that medical attention is needed, seek medical attention.

LIVE WELL (Cont.)

Start The New Year With Self Compassion

With the year 2020 now behind us, I think we all want to lean into the New Year with optimism and hope. Social media if filled with quotes of hope and optimism though the problems of 2020 are still on the horizon with no real closure in sight.

The best way to change the narrative of the 2020 doom and gloom picture is to change the way we choose to think about the New Year and take control of ourselves.

life as well.

Care of Yourself

1. Make time to reflect, dream and plan. One of the things I did at the The idea of self compasbeginning of this year was sion comes from a lot of to first reflect on the past my own personal readyear and identify what ing as well as my good worked good for me and intentions of exercising what did not After regood self care yet failing flection, I began to dream miserably. I have come to about what a positive and learn that most of us do healthy 2021 would look not do a good job with our like for me. I decided that own self disciplines and I want to grow in gratipersonal boundaries and tude and to learn better the consequence of this is how to ask for what I to fall into failure, despair need. The next step is to and the loss of hope. So put these ideas into action let’s take control of ourwhich requires me to put selves and begin with a them in my daily schedplan for better self care. ule. If I plan well, then I will execute better. So 3 Tips for Taking Better start the year with a plan

that reflects the optimism and hope that you desire for yourself.

2. Find a fun physical activity. Exercise causes your body to release endorphins, which are natural mood-boosters.

Regular exercise can also help prevent disease and bolster cardiovascular health. Find something that meets several needs in your life. For example, if I exercise outside, it also provides me with fresh air and nature that meets an emotional and spiritual need in my life. Or for those who exercise indoors, find someone to go with so that you can also meet a social need in your

3. Cultivate connections.

Staying connected with family and friends is paramount to a happy and healthy life. We are hardwired for connection and I am of the belief that we cannot grow or change without significant and meaningful relationships.

The tendency for all of us is to settle into this social distancing idea with those who can make a difference in our lives.

Cultivating meaningful connection will requires intentionality and creativity from us, yet vital to our lives.

Let’s cheers to a more positive, healthy 2021 and let’s lean into each other for support as we all move toward a hopeful future.

Nancy A. Johnson, EdD, LMHC 407-902-9250 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd.

Suite 2021

COMMUNITY CORNER

What is the Four-Way Test?

Happy New Year, everyone! We are excited to share the growth of our club and upcoming service projects.

As president in a challenging year, I humbly announce, our club gave their hearts out. Served with tenacity and grit. There is nothing quite like a challenged Rotarian!

At the start of a fresh new year, I invite you to join us for a meeting or sign up to serve with us on a project, get to know us. The growth of our club is important to us and we welcome you at any time. In advance of that thought, I would like to share a few things about our members.

We are a very diverse group. Our club’s gender, ethnicity and ranges of all ages adds to our appeal. We care about one another – Rotary is a family to us. We gather for holidays and celebrations (safely, of course).

We love spending time together.

Also noteworthy is the unwavering support of our community. We host many events and service projects throughout the year. Without the

backing of Avalon Park and surrounding neighborhoods, we would not be able to pull these off successfully.

Another strong appeal of our club is the diverse industries we represent.

We have folks from banking, real estate, food and beverage, technology, aviation, graphic design, marketing, sports, insurance, finance, accounting, public relations and locally owned small businesses. We support one another’s ventures and their professional development.

In closing, I ask, “What can we do for you?” Please send us ideas and ways we can serve this year. We are always looking for new ways to help others. I leave you with one final thought, our Four-Way Test. It was developed in 1932 by Herbert J. Taylor and it has never ceased to be relevant. It is the Rotary cornerstone of all action, a checklist of ethical behavior:

2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?

3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS? 4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

Our club has so much fun we’ve adopted an unofficial 5th part of the Four-Way Test: 5. Is it FUN? Come by and check us out! We meet every Wednesday at 7:30 am at the Avalon Park Community Center, 13401 Tanja King Blvd. http://www. rotaryclubofavalonpark.org YIRS, Greg Meunier President Rotary Club of Avalon Park

Of the things we think, say or do 1. Is it the TRUTH?

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

COMMUNITY (Cont.)

GUEST SUBMISSION

Missing Middle Housing and the Need for Diversity

Last month, we talked about the idea of placemaking, or the multi-faceted concept involving the ways in which traditional neighborhood developments inspire their residents to reimagine public spaces as little hearts of a community. In this thorough examination of traditional neighborhoods, their characteristics, and how their characteristics intersect and define communities, we arrive at yet another idea: the idea of “Missing Middle Housing.” Similar to the notion of mixed-use facilities, the term “Missing Middle Housing” refers to a way through which more housing and housing choices are developed in walkable, sustainable places like traditional neighborhood developments. Traditional neighborhoods diverge from conventional suburbia in many ways— as we have previously discussed—and perhaps the most notable of which is the idea that people of all social and economic strata are able to live, work, and thrive comfortably in traditional neighborhoods due to their multiple types of living options. Essentially, “Missing Middle Housing” serves to support local business as well as diversifying housing choices, thus diversifying the people within a community.

The words “Missing Middle” refer to their status as being between, or in the middle of, typical housing: the bridge between apartment complexes and single-family homes. From duplexes to fourplexes, Missing Middle Housing, then, can be best described as clustered housing similar in scale to single-family homes which aid to meet the continuously growing demand of living options in walkable, urban spaces. Above all, Missing Middle Housing allows for demographics such as senior citizens, young couples, single parents, teachers, and doctors to live comfortably amongst one another in order to foster a deeper sense of community while also closing the gap between small amounts of available housing and the high demand for walkability.

When looking at the characteristics of Missing Middle Housing compared to the characteristics of traditional neighborhood developments, many trends can be observed: both aim to aid and increase walkability and feelings of community and interconnectedness, decrease the need for automobiles, and produce a more sustainable ecological footprint. This is why they work well in conjunction. The similarities in scale between single Missing Middle Housing units and single-family homes allow for them to be easily blended, again encouraging diversity both amongst living spaces and residents. Missing Middle Housing is an example of compatible infill—a development that does not take away from the privacy or character of neighboring houses—which is a direct result of its perceived low density, or the ability of these buildings to not appear dense or crowded. See photo below for a diagram that exemplifies these different types of Missing Middle Housing and how they can be implemented within a community.

Overall, Missing Middle Housing creates more living usage and units on less land than do single-family homes.

The idea that the Missing Middle is a spectrum, also indicated by the graphic above, means an increase in housing supply and a decrease in total cost for residents as compared to the supply and cost of single-family units.

Most importantly, Missing Middle Housing directly impacts the need for affordable housing, and does so in a way that not only improves the lives of those seeking to live there, but also other members of the community who can watch their neighborhoods grow and diversify.

By: Raven Halle

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

d

COMMUNITY (Cont.)

LIVE WELL & 2 0 2 STAY HEALTHY

01

SUN

JANUARY

MON

TUE

WED

THU

FRI

1

Lunges Stand tall with your shoulders back, relaxed and chin up. Step forward with one leg, lowering your hips until both knees are bent at about a 90-degree angle. Make sure your front knee is directly abo e your ankle and that your other knee is just abo e the floor.

Keep the weight on your heels as you push back up to the starting position.

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

3

4

25 Lunges and M1 10

5

30 Lunges

60 Lunges

18

85 Lunges and M3

M1-Write down a goal!

M2-Do a 5-minute stretch!

M3-Tidy up an area!

M4-Make a list of things you are grateful for!

M5-De-Clutter your phone!

24

25

115 Lunges and M4 31

13

65 Lunges

14

20

95 lunges

27

125 lunges

70 lunges

21

Rest

26

120 Lunges

40 lunges

Rest

19

90 Lunges

7

Rest

12

55 Lunges and M2

Mindfulness Activities

35 LUNCges

11

17

6

100 lunges

28

Rest

130 Lunges

2

15 Lunges

8

9

45 Lunges 15

75 Lunges

22

105 lunges

29

135 Lunges

145 Lunges and M5

CERVIVAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

2021 SUN

MON

TUE

WED

THU

FRI 1

SAT 2

15 Lunges 3

4

25 Lunges and M1

nt ur 10

5

30 Lunges 11

24

115 Lunges and M4

or!

60 Lunges

18

85 Lunges and M3

35 LUNCges 12

55 Lunges and M2 17

6

90 Lunges

25

120 Lunges

13

125 lunges

40 lunges 14

Rest

20

95 lunges

26

8

Rest

65 Lunges

19

7

21

Rest

27

100 lunges

28

Rest

9

45 Lunges 15

70 lunges

130 Lunges

20 Lunges

75 Lunges

22

105 lunges

29

135 Lunges

31

145 Lunges and M5

CERVIVAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

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

50 lunges 16

80 lunges

23

110 lunges

30

140 Lunges

2

5 16

8

23

11

30

14