KEEPING THE NEWS LOCAL & THE COMMUNITY CONNECTED.
JANUARY 2022
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VOLUME 3 EDITION 1
Celebrate the New Year in Avalon Park
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COMMUNITY UPDATES
Last year was full of exciting events, ranging from parades to festivals and from concerts to craft fairs. We’re excited to share a new year of events with you! This year, there are several community festivals and events to look forward to in Avalon Park Orlando. From the best food festivals to family-friendly events, we have it all! Are you ready to find out more about upcoming events in Avalon Park Orlando? Let’s get started. Avalon Park’s monthly community events are a great way to bring your family together. There’s something for everyone with featured events like: Movie Under the Stars (Sep – April) and Food Truck Nights! Whether you’re a dance enthusiast, foodie, or looking for family fun; Avalon Park has something for everyone. We kick-off 2022 with Avalon Celebrates the Arts
presented by the Night Market. The event will feature locally made works of art and musicians: Flamenco Fusion, UCF Jazz Ensemble II and More! Come join us in Downtown Avalon Park on February 12th from 5-9 PM. At Avalon Park’s many festivals, you’ll have a chance to visit with local organizations and businesses that share a passion for both families and our community. You can meet face-toface with people who provide important resources like farm fresh food, housing, education and more— giving you peace of mind knowing that your family is well taken care of in our city. It’s also fun to make new friends while enjoying the community performance entertainment together on stage. The first festival will be on Saturday, April 9th at Absolutely Avalon where we will celebrate diversity in Ava-
lon Park! There will be international food and music along with bounce houses, a laser light show and community performances. These festivals are created to bring people together and they offer plenty of entertainment for all ages. We want to provide an array of opportunities for you to participate in our community. Do you offer a product or service that would be a great fit for an upcoming event? Apply to be a vendor and share your products with thousands of attendees. Vendor Opportunities are available for all upcoming events! Check out all opportunities at Vendors | Avalon Park Orlando. For a full list of family-friendly events, visit us here and follow us on social media @AvalonParkOrlando.
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Coffee Hour with BEAT
-Let’s start with using steps to extend these the stairs instead of the principles into the elevators community with a program called Live Well. At the end of last -Visit the gym at Several years ago lunchtime year, we conducted Avalon Park Group a digital community was the fortunate health assessment, and -Take a brief rest every recipient of a 60 minutes community grant from in the coming months we will be releasing Advent Health. APG -Spend time with was selected by Advent programs based on Health to go through a what the community is family and friends interested in seeing as it 3 year program, called -Choose the healthy relates to their health. Working Well, with version when at the the goal of becoming store or restaurant As with many one of the healthiest initiatives, the newness companies to work Accountability is an wears off and we for in Central Florida. important part of need a reminder and We were informed getting healthy, hence motivation! I, as well that our application on January 1st, in the as others in the office, was selected amongst morning I will “weighregained the weight, many others because in” and report among missed going to the of our desire to push those closest to me gym and who cannot the principals that we about the progress on a resist the chocolates would learn through monthly basis. right at the front desk the program to the in our office! communities that At APG this year, it we build. It was a is our goal to take So, while I have not great success, many the community with talked to Mari Robles employees started us. The dream of exercising, lost weight, our HR Chief, I am creating the healthiest were cured of Diabetes almost sure, she will community in Florida and other diseases, and be excited about is alive. Every journey my “fearless leader some even stopped starts with a first step. smoking. This was not decision” during the just a focus on physical holidays to reinvigorate You decide what your health, but health from the Working Well first step is. program. I am a holistic standpoint. confident we can all do Team members began Have a Healthy 2022! it again together. spending more time with their families and loved ones, took control of their finances and focused on their mental health. I personally lost some weight, ran a half marathon, and watched - Have an inclusion for the Avalon Park Sun? Email: info@AvalonParkSun.com my diet. - Editorial Staff: While the Working Publisher: Beat Kahli Well grant period has Copy Editor: Stephanie Lerret ended, we continue Graphic & Layout Editor: Kenzie Farrish to focus on health and wellness in our company. We have 407.658.6565 also began taking the 3801 Avalon Park East Blvd. #400 Orlando, FL 32828 and for others it will simply be a reset of focus.
Happy Healthy New Year Over the holidays I was reminded of the book, CREATION, written by my long-time friend Dr. Des Cummings. The acronym stands for: C = CHOICE, R = REST, E = ENVIROMENT, A = ACTIVITY, T = TRUST, I= INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS, O = OUTLOOK, and N = NUTRITION. I still have a copy of this book after all these years and I still remember, I hope correctly, the 8 powerful letters: C R E A T I O N. Often when thinking about a healthy life, I refer to these 8 letters and what they reference. As I reflect on the accomplishments and challenges and the goals of 2022, I, along with Avalon Park Group, would like to declare 2022 as the HEALTHY YEAR. This year we will focus on Health. For some this will be a continuation, for some it will be a completely new focus
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From the Desk of Commissioner
Maribel Gomez Cordero Happy New Year to everyone! 2021 was a difficult and challenging year, but with a new year ahead of us, I am hopeful that 2022 will be a positive year of growth and renewal. I would like to invite everyone to my Three Kings’ Day Celebration. This event will be held on Saturday, January 8th at 11am at the South Econ Recreation Center (3850 S Econlockhatchee Trail). This event will be a toy giveaway that will also feature various public and private community organizations. Food and drinks will also be provided as well as live music. This is a great opportunity for families and kids in our District to have the memorable opportunity to experience first hand this beautiful tradition. This is a family friendly event where kids will not only receive a present, but meet the Three
Kings and enjoy a fun outdoor environment. I would like to remind everyone that the COVID testing/vaccination site at Barnett Park (4801 W Colonial Dr) is still open seven days a week from 9am to 4pm. In addition, there are two more testing sites open in Orange County. The first is the Econ Soccer complex at 8035 Yates Road, Orlando FL 32807. The other is at South Orange Youth Sports at 11800 South Orange Avenue, Orlando FL 32824. Both of these sites are open seven days a week from 9am to 5pm. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, or if you would like to receive my newsletter, you can email me at district4@ocfl.net or call my office at 407-836-5881. Blessings and Happy Holidays!
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5 Tips to Help You Take the Best Pet Photo
Are you one of the proud owners of a fourlegged friend? If so, then National Pet Day on January 14th must mean something to you. After all, who doesn’t want to celebrate their pets? Even if you don’t have pets, it’s still nice to see how many people love their animals and honor them with such an awesome holiday. But it can be hard to get that perfect photo of your furry friend, so we’ve come up with five tips to help make sure you take the best pet photo this year!
room).
5. Distractions please! Dogs respond well to distractions like treats, toys and squeaky items; bring along some favorite play things. Cats often favor a quieter atmosphere and will be more willing to cooperate if there aren’t any other animals nearby pestering them.
General considerations when posing your pet What’s the best way to get pictures of my Pets can be hard to pose, so make sure that pet? you have their attention when you do get a 1. Tell your pet, It’s okay! Then gently place a photo opportunity. Cats are especially good treat in front of its nose and snap away. at ignoring things they’re not interested in, and dogs may tend to wander if they don’t 2. Treat them: Reward good behavior with a know what’s going on or if they think sometreat for compliance and obedience—don’t thing else is going on elsewhere. The best force them into awkward positions by hold- way to ensure that your pet stays where you ing out a treat, as it may take several shots want him or her is with some patience—and before they even look at it, let alone eat it. maybe a few treats! If you want your dog focused on you, try having his favorite toy 3. Don’t overthink it: If you want profession- nearby and ask him for it before taking his al-looking images, don’t overthink how you picture. can achieve that effect; if natural is what you want, then stick to natural light (and keep How can I get creative when dressing up my pets on a leash!). pet? Not all pets get along with costumes, but 4. Where are you? Look around for other most will play along. Here are some tips for spots within range where you could capture creating your own pet costume - Start by images that represent your specific environ- checking with friends and family who have ment or personality (e.g., poolside or living pets: they might be willing to share old outfits they no longer use. - Cat costumes can be purchased at almost any pet store. - If there is a specific theme or holiday that inspired your photo idea, look for accessories that match your idea. Be creative! The possibilities are endless! Enter To Win! Enter to win our contest by submitting a picture of your furry friend dressed up by January 13th to Info@TheFlatsAtAvalonPark.com. We will be announcing the winners on our social medias on January 14th. The Top Dog and Top Cat winners will receive a special gift bag provided by Avalon Family Vet. For more information on leasing at The Flats at Avalon Park, visit us online or contact our leasing office at (407) 273-4337.
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Transitioning Parents to Assisted Living your parent and a relief to you.
Moving a parent, or parents, into an assisted living community can be an emotional experience for everyone involved; however, it can also be an exciting new chapter in the life of your loved one. In order to properly navigate these feelings during such a transitional time, here are a few strategies to keep in mind when helping your senior parent move into a new living situation.
Introduce Your Parent to Our Welcoming Assisted Living Community
For an easy transition into assisted living in the Central Florida area, consider Encore at Avalon Park. Our afraid to speak up. Dis- community provides setbacks will happen, and your parent might creetly resolving your access to recreationparent’s wishes could al and social activiwant to come home. help them feel more at ties and comfortable Hearing your parent home. express these feelings accommodations to could be extremely remind your senior Finally, encourage exdiscomforting. Howevloved one of home. How to Transition er, home is more than tended family to visit. Contact Encore at Parents to Assisted Since you may be dojust a physical place. Avalon Park to see for Living Communities ing a lot of the work Be ready to anticipate yourself why we’re • Take Your Time – on your own, it can these moments so you your premier senior Experts agree it takes be overwhelming at living solution. To three-to-six months for can both come to an times. Having other understanding and schedule a tour, give someone to adjust to family members visit quickly resolve any isus a call today at 407assisted living. Once when you can’t will be sues that arise. If your 270-7500. your parent is moved a welcome surprise to parent says they’re in, decide how frehomesick, talk about quently you want to visit. Some experts say what they miss. Acvisiting as often as pos- knowledging the diffisible is best as frequent culties of transitioning to assisted living helps visits help to ease the your parent feel seen stress of adjusting to and heard, which, in a new home and can lessen feelings of lone- turn, makes them feel appreciated. liness. However, if your parent is simply waiting around for you to show up and not engaging and interacting in his or her community, then it might be best to take a break. Creating a dependency on you might not be healthy when your parents could be socializing with other residents. Set boundaries and expectations so your parent knows exactly when you’re visiting, and when you’re not. • Embrace the Discomfort – Sometimes
• Build Your Care Team – The staff at your parent’s assisted living community are there to serve both your parent and you. Making the staff aware of your parent’s concerns allows problems to be solved quicker. Let the care team know what your parent needs, because you can’t always assume they know everything that’s going on. Don’t be afraid to also be an advocate on your parent’s behalf. Your parent may want something done for them, but may be
LIVE Encore Resident, Evelyn Landau, Turns 105
Happy Birthday Submitted by: Kaitlyn BrimmerRailing and Andre Leal of Encore at Avalon Park
Encore at Avalon Park and the Avalon Park community gathered to celebrate the 105th birthday of Ms. Evelyn Landau on December 27th. Ms. Evelyn was born and raised in Baltimore, MD. Growing up she lived in the city with her parents Max and Etta along with her brothers Alton and Leonard. One of her favorite things to do is listening and dancing to music by artists like her favorites, Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby. Evelyn graduated from Western High School in 1934 at the age of 17 years old. At 20 years old she eloped and married the love of her life Arnold J. Landau. During their first few years of marriage Ms. Landau wanted to join the Army but couldn’t because she had “flat feet,” but they told her she should join the Women’s Air
Corp (WAC). She did just that during WWII from 1943-1946. Ms. Landau loved being a part of the Women’s Air Corp and assisting pilots. Once out of the military Mr. and Ms. Landau wanted to start a family, and in January 1947 came their pride and joy, Susan. The Landau Family spent most of their time in Baltimore but came down to Florida in the early 1990’s. Ms. Evelyn moved into Encore at Avalon Park in 2018, where she enjoys going on walks with the walking club, loves to go on the bus and seeing Avalon blossom. Her favorite activity at Encore is Happy Hour on Fridays, especially when Frank Sinatra comes and visits, along with spending time with her friends at Encore. Ms. Evelyn’s Words of Advice: “Live your life, we have no control of anything except our behavior.”
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Now Serving Breakfast at Marketplace at Avalon Park!
People always say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but who really makes the time to either make it themselves or pick it up? Now you can start your mornings off right with a breakfast hot off the griddle from three of your favorite restaurants at Marketplace at Avalon Park – Rosso Coffee Bar, Pico De Gallo and Nola at Avalon Park. With everything from tostadas to pancakes to a breakfast sandwich, you’ll have plenty of tasty options to choose from. So don’t go hungry on your way out the door – start your day off right with breakfast from one of these three eateries! Flavors of Breakfast
Coffee and Orange Juice are two flavors of breakfast that can help you wake up and feel refreshed. Sometimes you just need to feed your breakfast craving for pancakes. Coffee, however, is a long-time favorite of early risers and might we suggest the lavender flavor or the fan favorite, Matcha Latte.
Hot Drinks And Pastries For Breakfast Rosso Coffee Bar is open 7 days a week starting at 7:30 am for breakfast and serving a wide variety of hot drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, americanos and other specialty beverages that pair nicely with its baked goods. Whether you’re looking for a morning jolt to get going or need to sat-
isfy your sweet tooth before lunch, Rosso Coffee has what you need.
Breakfast Biscuit dine in or grab and go The Nola breakfast biscuit is perfect for on-the-go! A mouthwatering buttermilk biscuit filled with eggs, smoked ham and Monterey Jack cheese. Dine in or grab one to go from Rosso Coffee in the Marketplace at Avalon Park. Breakfast Burrito, Tacos, Tostadas, Pancakes The morning is a timeof-day people sometimes find hard to get out of bed for. To help you start your mornings off on a high note, Pico de Gallo has your hot breakfast ready. Breakfast
Burritos, Tacos, Tostadas, Pancakes are all under $10 and made fresh to order. Pico is open for breakfast Monday-Friday, 7 am – 10:30 am. With Rosso Coffee, Pico De Gallo and Nola inside The Marketplace at Avalon Park serving breakfast, you can get your first meal of the day before you start your busy day. Each venue serves different menu items so we recommend checking out all of them for a great breakfast experience. The Marketplace at Avalon Park is conveniently located at 3801 Avalon Park Blvd., Ste. 100, in the heart of Downtown Avalon Park.
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Avalon Middle School’s NJHS Students Making a Difference Avalon Middle School’s National Junior Honor Society students had a very busy and rewarding holiday season. In November, they wrote thank you cards for the nurses at Advent Health East Orlando. The nurse staff was so appreciative that they made displays of cards on multiple floors of the hospital for all to view. They also collected and donated over 250 new children’s books to the Winnie Palmer NICU for parents to read to their premature infants. Along with the books, they delivered 250 handmade bookmarks as gifts to the parents that will include their babies’ footprints. The nurses, parents, and hospital staff were so grateful. Additionally, they made
and served dinner to over 100 homeless families at Straight Street in downtown Orlando. The students found it incredibly rewarding and Straight Street was extremely appreciative of their efforts and service. They also collected over 400 pounds of nonperishable food items for the Second Harvest Food Bank that was delivered for the Thanksgiving holiday. Finally, they granted 100 children’s gift wishes to the Orange/Seminole Foster Children’s Association Grant-A-Wish Project. We are so proud of all of the altruistic activities that our NJHS students are participating in. They truly are making a difference in our community.
13914 Mailer Blvd, Orlando, FL 32828 (407) 207-7839 AvalonMS.ocps.net
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Sunshine Ankle & Foot Experts January Health Fact Your feet are a good indicator of your general health! Such conditions as arthritis, diabetes, nerve and circulatory disorders can show their initial symptoms in the feet. Foot ailments can be your first sign of more serious medical problems. Seek medical attention if you are experiencing symptoms that are not usual. Sunshine Ankle & Foot Experts can help you! Dr. Kiana Karbasi and Dr. Timothy Miller are currently seeing patients in Suite 225 of the Keith Ewing Medical Building. Please call 407-863-
3655 or visit us at www. sunshineankleandfoot. com to schedule an appointment! We love being a part of the Avalon Park Community and look forward to keeping it’s members SAFE and keeping them going!
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CLICK HERE FOR FULL DIRECTORY! STNEVE 1202
October 8-9th October 30th November 13th December 4th December 31st
Oktoberfest Spooktacular Fall Craft Fair Avalon Aglow NYE
Movie Under the Stars Food Truck Nights
4th Fridays Monthly (September - April) 3rd Sundays Monthly
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What are the Benefits of a Virtual Office?
What exactly is a virtual office? It’s an address, phone number, and suite of business support services that allows you to appear to be operating out of one location when you’re actually operating out of another. This setup can be especially useful if you’re trying to operate from out of state or even working from home. Who will use a virtual office? Any business or individual that does not want the obligations of a brick and mortar location, but who still needs a local address for work. This can range from individuals working out of their homes, start-ups with limited funds, to small businesses with remote employees and needing centralized billing. The Benefits of Virtual Offices As technology has made it possible to work remotely, many people have opted for virtual offices instead of renting out space in a traditional office building. A virtual office can be set up by any business—no matter how large or small—and you can hire a virtual assistant to take care of some or all administrative tasks. This arrangement offers convenience and flexibility, and an increasing number of individuals are choosing to work virtually as well. The 5th Floor Offers Virtual Office Options The 5th Floor, located in the heart of Downtown Avalon Park, has a Virtual Offices solution for your business. For more information on Virtual Offices or other working solutions at The 5th Floor, visit us online at www.The5thFloorOrlando.com or give us a call at 407-730-3493.
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Sunshine Ankle & Foot Experts Join Avalon Park of foot and ankle issues such as sports medicine, trauma, heel pain, Achilles tendon injuries, flat feet, bunions, hammertoes, nail issues, wound care, diabetic foot care, and much more.
Sunshine Ankle & Foot Experts is proud to call Avalon Park home! Dr. Kiana Karbasi and Dr. Timothy Miller are very excited to be a part of this amazing community, and they know that they can help its member stay active and healthy. As physicians who specialize in the foot/ankle/lower leg, they know how important these body parts are in helping you perform everyday activities. When the base of your body is not functioning properly, it can affect you physically, mentally, and emotionally. Let these highly trained doctors help you! They are accepting new patients and can see you same day if needed. They are happy to help patients of all ages! They specialize in all categories
Experiencing pain? Had an injury? Feel that something isn’t right with your feet/ankle/ leg? Don’t wait for it to get worse before being seen! Located right in downtown Avalon Park, Sunshine Ankle & Foot Experts are ready to help you. Call 407-863-3655 or go online at sunshineankleandfoot.com to schedule your appointment. Dr. Kiana Karbasi and Dr. Timothy Miller look forward to helping you!
New Domain for Orange County Elections Office Website The Orange County Supervisor of Elections office has changed their website The Orange County Supervisor of Elecdomain – their website is now www. tions hopes the change reinforces for ocfelections.gov. voters that their elections office is the trusted source for accurate election inElections and security experts agree formation. that a dot gov domain is preferred for elections office websites. There are This domain change comes soon after more restrictions and requirements to other website updates. Recently, the obtain a dot gov than a dot com doOrange County Supervisor of Elections main, and more government security website was certified accessible by support for dot gov websites. Lighthouse Works, according to WCAG 2.0 AA standards. “We are always working to improve operations and security measures,” said For more information, visit www.ocfeBill Cowles, Orange County Supervisor lections.gov or call the Orange County of Elections. “Changing our domain is Supervisor of Elections office at (407) just one more step in that process.” 836-2070.
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Avalon Family Vet Made Big Changes!
Maikel - Veterinary Nurse Maikel is originally from Cuba where he obtained his veterinary license. He is currently working on obtaining his veterinary license in the United States to then join our company as a veterinarian! He is keeping his skills honed by being a veterinary nurse and staying up to date on the best medical practices. His knowledge and skills make him an invaluable member of the team. He shares his home with his new best buddy “Frank” the beta fish. We are so excited to meet you and provide the best care that we possibly can for the pets of the Avalon Park Community. Please stop by and meet the team! February is Pet Dental Health Month
Alana, Matt, Dr. Morosi, Jen In August of 2021 Avalon Family Vet made some big changes! We signed on our Chief of Staff and full time veterinarian, Dr. Letiza Morosi and a new practice manager, Sabrina Beck. These newest members bring a very different focus and feeling to the practice, their passion and goal is to bring the best possible accessible pet care to the charming Avalon Park community.
has many animals and more to come... She performs agility with her standard poodles, “Mosby” and “Ghost” and eventually with the new puppy “Kimber”. Her feet also stay warm with her 3 cats, “Obidiah”, “Eugene” and “Flynnigan”.
Our Team is the backbone of the Avalon Family Vet They are the smiling faces that greet you and give out endless love and affection to your pets. They take pride in keeping your pets happy Dr. Morosi is originally from Italy, and comfortable during their visit. where she attended vet school and spent the first 10 years practicing in a Jen - Client Service very busy small animal practice. In or- Typically the first sweet voice you hear der to grow her passion for veterinary and the first smiling face you see when medicine, she moved to the United you arrive. She puts all of our clients States to pursue her veterinary career. needs first and is the eager to spoil your We are thrilled to have her medically dog or cat when you come in the door. leading our Avalon Family Vet Group She lives at home with her 2 kitties, team. She loves the fact that pet own- “Thunder” and “Luna.’ We love each ers treat their pets like they are family other like family already! and can’t wait to take care of your furry family members! At home she enjoys Alana - Veterinary Nurse the company of her husband, son and Alana is currently working towards apdaughter, her big hound mix, “Chevy” plying for vet school! We are so proud of her and provide as much support and new kitten “Ivy”. and training to prepare her for success! Sabrina grew up on a farm in Virgin- She loves every pet as much as her own ia that started her life long love for all sweet hound mix “Honey Bear” and her things animals. After her first job in kitty “Chi-Chi”. She will make you feel veterinary medicine she knew it was so welcome with her smile and obvious where she belonged. She obtained her love for your own baby. Licensed Veterinary Technician credentials in 2006. . After years working in Matt - Veterinary Nurse emergency, eye specialty and day prac- He is also planning on living his childtices she shifted her focus on the man- hood dream of going to vet school, agement of the veterinary practices. She aiming for the University of Florida! is passionate about educating her vet- He helps us on a part time basis when erinary team as well as taking the very not hitting the books and does a great best care of them so they, in turn, will job balancing it all. It is obvious by his take the very best care of you and your enthusiasm that he loves this field and pets. (what do you think? - didn’t want will be a very successful veterinarian!.. goals and passion to be redundant)In He shares his home with his very loved her free time, Sabrina takes care of her Ridgeback mix “Roxy”. “Homestead” which
Your pet’s dental health is so important, we have a month dedicated to bring awareness to this disease. Our furry friends don’t brush their teeth like we do so their teeth certainly need a different kind of attention. Dental checks are as essential to animals as they are to us. Being proactive with their dental health significantly decreases the risk of not only loosing teeth but also prevents diseases that can permanently affect other organs in the body such as the kidneys and the heart! Red gums = inflammation and pain, stinky breath and yellow teeth (plaque and tartar) = infection and disease. We can take care of that!! This year for National Pet Dental Health Month we are offering a FREE Complete Oral Health Assessment and Treatment. A “COHAT” will include a 5-10 minute evaluation of your dog or cats mouth by one of our Certified Dental Health Technicians. This assessment will allow us to stage your pet’s dental health, and provide you with a plan of action to get your pet on the road to better dental (and overall) health. New clients are welcome and no appointment is necessary!! We look forward to seeing you soon.
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Networking is One Letter Off from “Not”working Throughout 2021 we have met with hundreds of businesses, learning about their products and services and introducing them to the East Orlando Chamber of Commerce. On many of these visits we have had to educate businesses about the purpose a Chamber of Commerce. One of the most common misnomers is the Chamber is just a “networking” organization. Yes, networking is a byproduct of our programs and events, but the Chamber offers so much more. We’ve seen some people think they are to attend an event and pass out 50 business cards then wait by the phone for a customer to call. This is the wrong approach. The East Orlando Chamber provides opportunities to create professional relationships to build your network. People tend to do business with those they know, like and have some sort of connection. One must understand that an individual you meet may not immediately need your product or service, but they may know somebody in their network who might. One of the best ways to make an impact is to be visible, our events and programs support your efforts. If you are seen on a regular basis, you become top of mind. When the need arises, you have a higher chance to be the one who is contacted. The East Orlando Chamber staff also invests time in your business, getting to know your needs, goals and expectations so we can find the right contacts and the best events for you to attend to make the most out of your membership. With 2022 here the East Orlando Chamber of Commerce is jammed
packed with numerous possibilities. We have been planning and prepping for an exciting year. We are starting off the year with Coffee Club on January 6th at Bonefish Grill Waterford Park, at 8:30AM. We are featuring Jennifer Barrows, Withum (Getting the most out of your ROI) Kim Griffith, Looking Glass (Working with your team & navigating personalities) and Sabrina Persaud, Nadini Printing & Marketing (168/24/7) to help you prepare for opportunities in the new year. Tune into Facebook Live to watch our Testimonial Tuesday starting at 9:00AM on January 11th. Learn what our members have to offer and provide to the community. Then join us at 12:30 for our Misters & Sisters Great Lunch Adventure at Tijuana Flats – Avalon Park for lunch with fellow Chamber members. On January 20th we are at Sam’s Club in Lake Nona for Coffee Club Nona then end the evening with a joint ribbon cutting ceremony with Apiary Title & GreatFlorida Insurance of Lake Nona. Don’t miss our January 26th Luncheon at Bonefish Grill. We are celebrating our 2021 most deserving members and installing our 2022 Board of Directors. We also have local journalist and author James Holmes providing his story and inspiration to follow your dreams. You’ll need to register for this event as it will sell out. January 27th we are celebrating a ribbon cutting for Solvera Tech at 4PM. Then we round out the week with another ribbon Cutting with Creative World School UCF at 3PM
on January 28th. We are excited to welcome these and many more businesses to the East Orlando Chamber and Community. Finally, you will not want to miss Feast in the East on February 24 at the Avalon Park Pavilion, Community Center. Reserve your tickets today, for the Chamber’s premier food tasting and catering event. Featuring tasty samples from restaurant members located all over East Orange county, win prizes and vote for the best Savory and Sweet Treats awards. We are here to help your business get connected and grow. Find out more
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information at EOCC.org. For 75 years we have supported our business members and communities in East Orange County providing a voice, opening doors for success, connecting members with opportunities, educational business development and building professional relationships. Our members support our mission to advocate and help sustain a robust economy, fostering companies with employment opportunities and merchants who provide the goods and services our community needs. Additional information available at EOCC.org.
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DINING
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Coming together to create a healthy community
Now Open
Primary Care that Works for Waterford Lakes We’re taking a highly personalized approach to your whole health and wellness. AdventHealth Primary Care+, now open in Waterford Lakes, is a comprehensive primary care practice built around your busy schedule. A wide range of primary care services for the whole family can help you take charge of your health.
7 Days a Week | 24/7 Access | Whole Family Care That’s Primary Care+. • Same day appointments available, or established patients can walk-in and be seen in less than 30 minutes • 24/7 access to care: call and speak with a provider or message your care team via the AdventHealth app • Same-day lab work onsite • Access to virtual mental health counseling
21-PCP-13084
• Access to virtual nutritional counseling
885 North Alafaya Trail | Orlando, FL 32828 Visit PrimaryCarePlusNow.com to schedule an appointment.
LIVE WELL
Get a Healthy Start to the New Year
There’s a stigma out there that eating healthy is expensive, lacks flavor, and is hard to maintain long term. I like to subscribe to the idea that eating healthy is much easier and tastier than it sounds. Not everyone will agree and I understand that. Eating healthy doesn’t mean you need to become a vegan or vegetarian. It doesn’t mean you need to count every calorie, check fat grams, or even eliminate your favorite foods. What it does mean is that you can impact your health is a positive way by making small changes to your daily eating habits. In the same way you would approach your exercise routine, set small goals, and change those habits a little at a time. Before you know it, your body will be craving things like a cold, crispy sweet apple over an entire box of chocolate. The best advice to set you into a positive mindset is not to think of it as a diet—because it’s not! You should feel free to eat as you would like, whenever you want. Those cravings you have are real, and, if ignored, may send you into a downward spiral that will only end in you feeling overwhelmed and defeated. Far too often, we go on extreme diets we can’t maintain which keeps us from developing any long-term, healthy eating habits. In general, you should try to base healthy eating habits around these food groups: • Vegetables: Should play a fundamental role in most meals. They are low in cal-
ories, yet, full of important micronutrients and fiber. • Fruits: A naturally sweet treat—fruit provides micronutrients and antioxidants that can help improve health. • Lean meats and fish: Meat and fish have been the major sources of protein throughout evolution. Look for leaner cuts of meat and increase your poultry and fish intake. Remember that baking, roasting, and grilling are all healthier alternatives to deep frying. • Nuts, seeds, beans, and legumes: Are not just for vegan and vegetarian diets. High in important nutrients, they are also great sources of fiber and protein. Nuts and seeds are considered some of the best sources of healthy fats you can find. • Eggs: Whole eggs pack a powerful combination of protein, beneficial fats, and micronutrients. • Dairy: Dairy products such as natural yogurt and milk are convenient and low-cost sources of protein and calcium. • Healthy starches: Starchy foods like potatoes with the skin, quinoa, and wholegrain bread can be healthy and nutritious. • Herbs and spices: These are often very high in nutrients and beneficial plant compounds. Dried or fresh, they can pack a ton of flavor into your cooking. Remember no foods need to be eliminated, however, some foods should be limited or saved for special occasions. • Sugar-based products: Foods high in sugar, especially sugary beverages, are often linked to obesity and type 2 diabetes as well as other chronic diseases. • Trans fats: Sometimes called partially hydrogenated fats have also been linked to many chronic illnesses, including heart disease. • Refined carbs: Foods that are high in refined carbs,
such as white bread, are linked to overeating, obesity, and other metabolic diseases. • Processed foods: Often these are disguised as healthy alternatives, but make sure you read the label as they usually contain a high amount of sugar or sodium to make them taste better.
The total elimination of the foods you enjoy may increase cravings and decrease your long-term success. Use a salad plate instead of a dinner plate to help you control portion sizes. The adage “our eyes are bigger than our stomachs” really does apply. What’s right for you might not be right for your brother, sister, friend, or significant other. Find your balance and stick with it. Have a safe, healthy, and happy new year.
Optimal health goes way beyond just nutrition. Exercising, restful sleep, proper hydration, and minimizing stress are all crucial to your success *Always consult your physician if you have questions Make it simple and easy about your specific needs to follow small steps at a based on your specific health time. Allow for some bal- condition. ance and enjoy your treats.
COMMUNITY CORNER
It’s January but the Party Continues: Chili, Poker and Beer! Happy New Year, Avalon Park! We are excited to announce a few upcoming events taking place in the first quarter. And to let you know that despite the pandemic challenges, our club is growing and is stronger than ever. Our goal in 2022 is to serve more, give more! Serve to Change Lives is our ongoing theme as we turn our focus to the younger generation of our community by re-engaging them through Interact and Rotaract. This topic is very near and dear to our club members and we look forward to improving this area.
Come join us for a fun night of poker to raise money for the Second Chance of Florida Foundation. Space is limited to 100 players. All attendees must present a valid form 8th Annual Fire in the of ID at the event. Players must be 21 or over in order Park Chili Cook-Off Saturday, Jan. 29, 10:00 to play. Purchase Tickets a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Town Park in Avalon Rotary Craft Beer Festival Park Rotary Club of Avalon Park Date TBD (March/April is participating by sponsor- 2022) ing a team and volunteering Town Park in Avalon manpower. For More Infor- Park Follow our Facebook Page mation for the announcement of Rotary Club of Avalon date and ticket sales. Park 3rd Annual Poker The 4th annual charity fundraiser event is presented by Tournament Saturday, Feb. 12 (Super Loyal Source and features local craft beer tastings from Bowl Saturday) Orlando and Central FloriAvalon Park Pavilion In addition, there are three exciting events taking place in the first quarter you won’t want to miss:
da area brewers. Thank you for your unwavering support over the years by attending our fundraising events. Without it, we would not be able to make as great of an impact! As we roll into 2022, our growing club invites you to serve along with us. We are very active in serving our community and have a lot of fun doing it. To learn more about us please feel free to drop by our weekly meeting on Wednesdays at 7:30 AM at the Pavilion (Avalon Park HOA building) - we look forward to seeing you!
COMMUNITY
Avalon Park Foundation
The Avalon Park Foundation is dedication to encouraging friends and neighbors to take part in positively influencing our community through service. The support from our community, partnerships, and sponsorships continues to our fuel growth, to provide community service endeavors within Avalon Park.
“Thank you for supporting our fundraising events, such as the annual Turkey Trot 5K” Brian Jones, President and Fundraising Chair. “In November, through our annual Adopt-A-Family food drive, we delivered meals to 64 families at some of our East Orange County Public Schools” - Mary Foley, Director and Community Service Chair. “We love when the community comes
together to support its members” – Stephanie Lerret, Board Secretary. We hope to see you at our Annual Bunny Run 5k in April. From the Avalon Park Foundation Board of Directors, we Happy Holidays and see you next year!
COMMUNITY
Kiwanis Club Updates The Kiwanis Club of Avalon had over 100 kids from their service leadership clubs participate in the Annual Avalon Christmas/Holiday Parade to accompany Santa down the main street in Avalon.
The Kiwanis Club of Avalon Park held their Breakfast with Santa at the Marketplace providing an opportunity for kids to visit with Santa and make arts and crafts while having a delicious pancake breakfast!
Teacher of the Month Awards Camelot: Kristy Schroeder Castle Creek: Suzanne Lewis Timber Lakes: Karin Hammond East River HS: Jimmy Jones NorthLake: Rebecca Smith
COMMUNITY
Avalon Park Pickleball Tournament The Flats resident, Sheila Harvey, and South Village resident, Matt Salamon, won the 12th Avalon Park Pickleball Tournament held on the South Village courts Friday January 7, 2022.
Visiting pickleball players included Michael Amos Wicker, visiting from his work with World Vision International in Jordan, pictured on the far left in the group picture.
Grandparents, parents, and grandchildren had a great time playing and eating pizza from the Avalon Park Pizza Hut provided by the Avalon Park Group and the Salamon family.
Avalon Park Orlando Pickleball plays Monday thru Friday, 8:30am-10:30am, on the South Village Courts and holds a pizza party and doubles tournament once a month. Beginners welcome.
