KEEPING THE NEWS LOCAL.... AND THE COMMUNITY CONNECTED.
OCTOBER 2020
LIVE
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COMMUNITY UPDATES
VOLUME 1 EDITION 6
Fall 2020 Events at Avalon Park
Avalon Park Wesley Chapel is happy to bring to the community a variety of fun and family-friendly events this fall! From delicious food truck nights to cozy Movies Under the Stars and exciting community festivals, this fall is jam packed with activities for everyone to enjoy! Food Truck Nights: Featuring local food trucks with a wide range of delicious foods and sweets. New trucks are scheduled every weekend at the Avalon Park Amenity Center. Check out our monthly food truck calendar for a list of the next food trucks coming to the community. The food truck schedule is located on Page 10 or on our website. Movie Under the Stars: Enjoy a free outdoor movie with friends and family during our monthly Movie Under the Stars event! Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy some free popcorn as
well. All movies start at dark. Fall Movie Schedule: October 16th Monsters, Inc November 20th – Abominable December 18th – Elf Full list is located on our website. Community Fall Yard Sale: October 24th, 8am –12pm Spooktacular: October 24th, 5pm – 8pm A spooky night of costume parades, bounce houses, music, food and more! Art Workshop: November 13th, 10am – 4pm
“Drawing from Still Life” Drawing with pencil, pen and ink, and watercolor with instructor Lionel Sanchez. Must sign up by November 6th Fee: $60 members/$75 non-members. Visit www.pascoarts.org for online registration.
Avalon Aglow and Holiday Week: December 12th December 18th Avalon Aglow is our annual holiday celebration. A magical night of fireworks,
balloon twisters, real snow, music, dancing, food and much more! This year’s Aglow will be followed by Holiday Week with hayrides, pictures with Santa, ornament making, cooking decorating, and a caroling night. For more information on our upcoming community events, visit us at www.avalonparkwesleychapel.com or give us a call at 813783-1515. All Covid-19 protocols will be followed during these events, such as face masks and social distancing.
LIVE
Coffee Hour with BEAT
More then 20 years ago I was “introduced” to Advent Health (at that time Florida Hospital), and it was not the standard business introduction to the organization. After ice skating at the RDV Ice rink in Maitland, I dislocated my shoulder and ended up in the emergency room at Florida Hospital East on Lake Underhill. Well they did a good job, and my shoulder was fixed, however, it took a 4-hour wait in the ER, and I learned how much demand there is for the ER then (and today). After my rather painful first meeting with Advent Health, a lot happened. Advent Health grew and grew and grew (today a 2-digit Billion organization) and APG grew, and grew, and grew, today a multi-billion-dollar organization. Our friendship with Advent Health remains strong and our missions are similar. Much like their CREATION model (choice, rest, environment, activity, trust, interpersonal relationship, nutrition), our company mission and vision focus on health as a strong foundation. At Avalon Park Group our mission is to change the way the world lives, learns, works, and plays through creating healthy sustainable communities and every aspect thereof. There is value in carrying the principles that we use in designing communities into the work environment, encouraging our employees to maintain a healthy and balanced life. We believe that
our strength is in our experience and our experience comes through the passionate dedication our employees’ channel into everything they do. Not only do I serve as a member of the Advent Health Board of Directors, our organizations collaborate in many ways such as through events, affiliations, internships and many more where our missions align.
Just a little over 4 years ago, I was invited to a dinner by our Human Resources Chief, a dinner hosted by Advent Health. This dinner was to choose a company that they would champion over the following 3 years to make it the healthiest company to work for in Central Florida. I was thrilled, and surprised, to be among the 20
getting Christmas cards from families saying how thankful they are for the regained physical and mental health.
A great partnership made it possible. Could we had done it alone? NO. It needed our will to change the health of our team members, small moves like eliminating junk food like donuts (not all of them, but most), soda, Swiss Chocolate, and so much more. We worked out together and alone, ran 5K’s, and gathered for educational programs with the Advent Health team. We needed the coaching and insight of Advent Health, a true partnership. Advent Health, at their cost (with a portion of the $150,000 award fund) hired HealthNext,
WE ARE EXCITED TO EXPAND ON OUR PARTNERSHIP WITH TRUSTED LONGTERM PARTNERS, LIKE ADVENT HEALTH AND THE YMCA TO CREATE THE HEALTHIEST COMMUNITIES IN CENTRAL FLORIDA finalists Advent Health had narrowed down. I felt extremely honored when Advent Health chose the Avalon Park Group and our collection of companies and projects, with a diverse workforce of 200+ team members to start a health journey together. At the time, our senior team realized the most precious and most important bonus we could ever give to our teams and their families is HEALTH. We found that to increase the health of all of us would be priceless. And we did, with an initial assessment was made (weight, bloodwork, etc.), we started with 280 points, with the goal to improve over 3 years. We did very well. At the end of the 3 years, our score was 650. Team members quit smoking, beat Diabetes and obesity, got in shape, both in body, and spirit. I am still
out of Philadelphia to move us from “semi-healthy” to “super healthy.” At first HealthNext was a bit skeptical, they were used to deal with the General Electric and Johnson & Johnsons of this world, but when they realized our vision is to change how people live, learn, work and play, they got really excited. The experience over the last 3 years got us to think BIGGER (by the way, we always do this at APG), how about if we can create the healthiest communities in the I-4 corridor, in Orlando, Wesley Chapel, Tavares, and Daytona. The only way to make this work is with again a partnership, but this time between you, APG, Advent Health, Health Next, the YMCA, and more! Can you imagine telling a friend, that
you live in the HEALTHIEST community in Central Florida? Can you imagine working towards living to a HEALTHY 100 years old? Anything starts with a first step....When I came to the United States some 25+ years ago to develop Avalon Park Orlando, the first letter of intent, I ever signed here in 1996 was with the YMCA, we agreed to build a Y in Avalon Park. Well, we tried, negotiated, looked at fundraising and layout, and tried, and tried, but did not come to terms. The YMCA then went to Blanchard Park. But, we did not give up. In 2004 I was sitting with the at that time CEO, Jim Ferber at lunch at Founder’s Square in Avalon Park. We talked again about how we could build a YMCA in Avalon Park. While doing so we looked at Town Center 2, under construction....and there you go, spontaneously and with a handshake, we agreed to a YMCA in that very building and opened it, almost 15 years ago. It is my belief that in order to become the healthiest community in Central Florida, we need to continue and grow our healthy partnerships. We also need a larger, better, newer Y .... and yes, we are working on it. We are in planning and design for an Olympic sized swimming pool, a boutique hotel, and a large fitness center (which we would love to be the YMCA). It could serve as the center of health in Avalon Park. We are excited to expand on our partnership with trusted long-term partners, like Advent Health and the YMCA to create the healthiest communities in Central Florida, where people can live, learn, work and play.
To SUBMIT your local LIVE news.... to ADVERTISE, to REGISTER or to RECEIVE the Avalon Park Sun email: Info@AvalonParkSun.com
LIVE (Cont.)
October Update from Pasco County Commission Chairman Mike Moore I hope you had a safe and healthy September! I appreciate you taking the time to read these updates about what is happening in Pasco County. We are fortunate to live in an exciting and growing community. September is always a solemn month as we remember the September 11th terrorist attacks. I had the privilege of joining the Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel’s annual memorial and recognition of our local first responders. Our community has a September 11th memorial wall at Tampa Premium Outlets. I have some good news to share about our Census efforts. In early September, Pasco County exceeded the Census self-response rate from 2010. This will play an important role in state and federal funding and representation over the coming decade. I want to extend a huge thank you to our citizens for answering our call to make Pasco count in the 2020 Census! As we continue to respond to COVID-19, we know people are still hurting. There are many other programs out there, from reimbursement grants for Personal Protective Equipment and training on how to properly clean facilities for businesses to Pasco CARES program to help with bills for individuals. Please check out MyPasco.net for the latest information and eligibility for these programs. Our tourism recovery efforts are continuing. On Labor Day weekend, a hockey tournament at AdventHealth Center Ice in Wesley
Chapel generated over 900 room nights in Pasco County. The weekend of September 12th and 13th, Pasco was home to tournaments in six different sports: baseball, beach volleyball, golf, hockey, and volleyball. The last weekend in September, the Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus of Pasco County hosted the Blue Star 30 girls’ basketball event. This was a major showcase tournament for college coaches that was originally scheduled to be held in New Orleans as part of the Women’s Final Four weekend. They chose to come to our community and generate over 800 room nights. These events, with health and safety plans in place, bring people to spend money at our local businesses. We are truly Florida’s Sports Coast! The Pasco Economic Development Council has played a key role in the efforts to support our businesses. Please check out a special video they produced, Pasco 2020: A Story of Strength on the Pasco EDC YouTube or Facebook pages. I hope you and your family enjoy a wonderful October! Please stay safe by following the guidelines provided by our health experts: wear a face covering when you cannot distance from others, wash your hands regularly, and avoid large groups. We will continue to get through this by working together! About: Commissioner Mike Moore is currently the Chairman of the Pasco County Commission. He lives in Wesley Chapel with his wife and three children.
Pasco County Public Transportation Resumes Fare Collection Regular fares reinstated on fixed route bus and paratransit service beginning October 1st. Following more than five months of fare-free ridership to support our customers facing hardship during the coronavirus pandemic, Pasco County Public Transportation (PCPT) will resume regular fare collection beginning October 1, 2020. Riders will be required to board through the front door and exit through the rear doors to minimize crowding at the fare box. PCPT strongly encourages you to wear a face mask and follow social distancing guidelines to be mindful of the health and wellness of our customers and team members.
and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) while following all recommended practices to better serve you. To learn more about Pasco County Public Transportation, including bus routes, transportation news and schedules, visit the PCPT website at: www.ridepcpt.com.
Learn more about PCPT fixed route fares and bus passes by visiting bit.ly/faresandpasses and paratransit fares at bit.ly/paratransitfares. PCPT continues to monitor COVID-19 information and guidance from the Florida Department of Health (DOH)
To SUBMIT your local LIVE news.... to ADVERTISE, to REGISTER or to RECEIVE the Avalon Park Sun email: Info@AvalonParkSun.com
LEARN
New River Elementary’s Reptile Review
Principal Update: Hi Reptile Families, It is hard to believe it is almost October. What a wonderful and successful start to the school year. Our students are arriving at school or logging online eager to learn each day. Thank you for preparing them each day for a successful learning experience. I know some families have felt the transitions happening in school due to teacher changes or new classes being created. While I would love to say that this won’t happen, this isn’t possible with our current situation of children changing to the traditional or online platform. Some of our families have reached out wanting to transition back to the traditional setting or to the mySchool online setting. These options will only be granted based on the availability a spot open into the classroom. We are working hard to stick to class size. If you are requesting a change, please note that you may be placed on a waitlist until there are enough students to build another class. I appreciate all your support. During the month of October, we typically have some family events. To ensure the safety of all children, we will not have our Character Parade and Trunk or Treat. On October 30th, if you would like your child may dress up as their favorite character. Please like us on Facebook and follow us for updates for this school year. Next week we will honor our September Remarkable Reptiles. Ms. Clerkin, Mrs. Basinger, and I will go around and recognize the students on zoom or in person. We are looking forward to recognizing those students who have been
respectful. October’s character trait will be growth mindset. Growth mindset is when we know that as long as we are committed to continuing to develop our talents through hard work, good strategies, and input from others we are going to learn and grow. Sincerely, Colleen Wilkinson -----------------------------------------Upcoming Dates: 10/8 Flu Shots 10/14 PTA Exec Board Meeting 10/14 SAC meeting 8:00amVirtual
10/19 No School- Teacher Planning Day 10/27 Report Cards Released -----------------------------------------Pasco Announces Major Changes to School Meal Program Changes to Federal Rules Mean School Meals are Now Free Land O’ Lakes, FL – (September 11, 2020) – Due to changes in the rules governing the federal school lunch program, Pasco Schools is making it easier than ever for students – and children 18 and under – to receive free meals. Starting on Monday, September 14, students who attend class on campus will still be able to get meals in the school cafeteria, and now those meals will be free. Also starting on Monday, September 14, students who attend school remotely will still be able to receive school meals on a drivethrough basis. Those meals also will be free. Here’s how the program will work for students who are learning remotely through mySchool Online or Pasco eSchool:
Monday, September 14 through Thursday, September 17, the daily drive-through meal distribution will continue at the designated site time – and meals will now be free. Designated locations and times are listed here. On Friday, September 18, the school district will serve a week’s worth of meals (breakfast and lunch) curbside to mySchool Online students, quarantined students, and children in the community 18 years and under. That includes Pasco e-School students. We will keep the same times already established for curbside feeding. Curbside meal distribution will continue once a week on Fridays. We encourage families intending to participate curbside to complete the Meal Reservation Form so we can be best prepared for curbside participation. Parent/guardians no longer have to go to their child’s school; they can pick up meals from the site that is most convenient.
For more information on Pasco’s school meal programs, visit the Food and Nutrition Services web page at: https://connectplus.pasco.k12.fl.us/do/fns/ -----------------------------------------Early Check-out: Please note that early check out needs to take place prior to 3:15. If you are checking your child out early, please call the office at 813-346-0500 and set up an appointment. -----------------------------------------Early Release: There will be no early release days for the first semester. We will let you know if we will have early release days for second semester. -----------------------------------------Drop-off and Pick-up Time: Students can be dropped off at 9:20 and dismissal starts at 4:00. -----------------------------------------For the full newsletter click here.
BABYTIME & STORYTIMES TEENS 10/5 | All Day - Come Grow with Us: Fall Tea Cup Garden 10/7 | 4:00 PM - Virtual Teen Advisory Board 10/1, 10/8, 10/15, 10/22, 10/29 | 11:15 AM Meeting Virtual Storytime with Miss Jennifer 10/14 | 4:00 PM - Virtual Fandom Trivia: Hocus 10/2, 10/9, 10/16, 10/30 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Pocus Storytime with Ms. Karen 10/17, 10/20 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Craft at Home: Teens 10/2, 10/9, 10/16, 10/23, 10/30 | 11:15 AM Virtual Baby Time with Miss Jennifer for Ages Birth-2 10/19 | All Day - Come Grow with Us: Paper Leaf Garland Craft 10/5, 10/12, 10/19, 10/26 | 10:15 AM - Virtual 10/28 | 4:00 PM - Virtual Game Zone Storytime with Miss Cindy S 10/1, 10/8, 10/15, 10/22, 10/29 | 10:15 AM Virtual Storytime with Miss Cindy
10/6, 10/13, 10/20, 10/27 | 10:15 AM - Virtual Storytime with Ms. Bea
ADULTS
10/1, 10/6, 10/8, 10/13, 10/15, 10/20, 10/15, 10/27, 10/29 | 8:30 AM - English for Speakers of Storytime for Birth to Age 5 Other Languages 10/7, 10/14, 10/21, 10/28 | 11:00 AM - Virtual 10/6, 10/13, 10/20, 10/27 | All Day - Facebook Crafter Morning Storytime Dance Party 10/1 | 7:30 PM - Virtual Full Moon Mala Meditation 10/10, 10/24 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Storytime with 10/2, 10/16 | 10:00 AM - Virtual First Chapter10/2, Ms. Karyn 10/16, 10/30 | 2:00 PM - RP’s Unsolved 10/5 | All Day - Come Grow with Us: Fall Tea Cup CHILDREN Garden 10/3, 10/10, 10/110, 10/26 | All Day - Virtual STEAM 10/8 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Crafty Get Together Saturdays 10/9, 10/23 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Instant Eats 10/3 | 10:00 AM - Craft at Home: Kids 10/16 | 10:00 AM - AARP Driver Safety 10/3 | 2:00 PM - Planet Lego! 10/19 | All Day - Come Grow with Us: Paper Leaf 10/3, 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31 | 3:00 PM -The Garland Craft Illustrator Adventure via Zoom 10/19 | All Day - Jewelry Jam: Fall Charm Bracelet 10/5 | 6:00 PM - Virtual Level Up 10/21 | 2:30 PM - Virtual LOL Book Club: A Man 10/31 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Craft at Home: Toddlers With One of Those Faces 10/23 | 6:00 PM - Halloween Movies Trivia 10/24 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Craft at Home: Adults TWEENS 10/27 | 5:00 PM - Zoom Reads Online Book Club 10/10 | 10:00 AM - Virtual Craft at Home: Tweens 10/8, 10/22 | 5:00 PM - Virtual Book Club: Taste of 10/29 | 6:00 PM - History of Tarot with Christiana Sunshine Gaudet 10/7, 10/14, 10/21, 10/28 | All Day - Virtual
For more information on how to access and register for these virtual events, visit pascolibraries.org or call 813-788-6375. Events brought to you by: New River Library 34043 State Road 54 Wesley Chapel 813-788-6375 pascolibraries.org Follow us on social media: Facebook: New River Public Library Instagram: pascolibraries Twitter: @PascoLibraries
LEARN (Cont.)
LEARNING FOR LIFE Homeschool Group
EAST PASCO FAMILY YMCA DAY: TIME: AGE: COST:
Wednesdays 10am-12pm 5 and up $20/month per family
Must have a Tampa YMCA Family Membership to participate. Email ryan.pratt@tampaymca.org for more information.
Homeschool Group enriches your child’s home school experience through socialization, physical fitness activities, and learning. The exciting curriculum implements the YMCA four core values: STEM, Arts & Crafts, engaging group games, and outside activities. Join us for friendship, learning and fun!
Register at the Welcome Center today!
ART
GYM
EAST PASCO FAMILY YMCA 37301 Chapel Hill Lp., Zephyrhills, FL 33541 | P 813 780 9622 tampaymca.org
SCIENCE
WORK
NEWS RELEASE
MEDIA CONTACTS
Lauren Miceli, Marketing/Communications Manager, Pasco EDC (727) 967-2694 cell phone • lmiceli@pascoedc.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Date: September 29, 2020
Conveyor Consulting and Rubber Company Expands and Adds Manufacturing Capabilities in Pasco County Company is investing $2 million and building two new facilities in Pasco County.
PASCO COUNTY, FLORIDA (September 29, 2020) — The Pasco Economic Development Council (Pasco EDC) is pleased to announce the expansion of Conveyor Consulting and Rubber Company in Pasco County. The company opened in Pasco County in 2014 and has been rapidly growing ever since. Conveyor Consulting and Rubber Company is investing $2,000,000 constructing two new facilities, one 20,000 and one 12,000 square foot, both in One Pasco Center business park near Interstate 75 and State Road 52. The expansion also includes new manufacturing capabilities for conveyor parts and systems. “Our company continues to grow, and we are expanding to meet the demand of our clients. Adding to our capabilities to include manufacturing is very exciting,” said Ron Fernandes, President, Conveyor Consulting and Rubber Company. “I really appreciate the Pasco EDC and Pasco County staff helping us keep the momentum going by expediting permitting and offering us mobility fee waivers. They are committed to helping businesses grow in Pasco.” Company owner Ron Fernandes looked at numerous locations, however he found One Pasco Center to have the direct access to major highways he needed to quickly and efficiently distribute to his clients, and provide easy access for business to business sales. “I want to congratulate Ron Fernandes and his team on their expansion. The I-75 and SR52 interchange is rapidly developing and I think he will find it the perfect fit,” said Pasco County Commissioner Ron Oakley. “The Pasco EDC is always excited to help our current businesses expand and find ways to grow in Pasco County,” said Bill Cronin, President/CEO, Pasco EDC. “Our road network in Pasco provides a unique transportation network across the county and region. Conveyor Consulting and Rubber Company chose their location because it provides them with quick access for distribution. I am thrilled they were able to remain here and continue to grow with us.” #
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About Pasco Economic Development Council The Pasco Economic Development Council is committed to developing Florida's most competitive climate for business growth by providing businesses, that seek to start, move, or grow in the North Tampa Bay area, a comprehensive suite of programs that can help them to reach their full economic potential. Since 1987, Pasco EDC has fostered a strong partnership funded by corporate and public investors focused on the economic vitality of Pasco County. Discover more at www.pascoedc.com.
6506 Pointe Village Drive, Suite 101, Lutz, FL 33558 (813) 926-0827 www.PascoEDC.com
WORK (Cont.)
INTERNATIONAL UPDATE
Meet the Member
Interview with Dr. André Fuchs from the Straumann Group The 5th Floor is an international collaborative pro-work space where members are able to enjoy international collaboration benefits in our 5th Floor locations and connections throughout the world. We would like to introduce you to Switzerland member, Dr. André Fuchs. How did you come to Straumann? Personal contacts were important in this regard. This was triggered by the closure of BASF’s Basel research center and the opportunity for me to continue working with 3D printing technology at Straumann. Could you give us a short overview of Straumann? Straumann is a leading provider in esthetic dentistry, founded by the Straumann family as a research institute in 1954.
Today, Straumann is a global, agile, entrepreneurial powerhouse in dentistry; the company is present in over 100 countries through 40 sales subsidiaries. What makes Straumann future-oriented? Our company is always on the cutting edge and invests into new technologies, i.e. digital data processing for the production of individual dental products (no more tedious imprints, but scanning with intraoral scanners) or in the development of new materials for dental
products. Straumann is a company founded and based in Basel. What do you particularly appreciate about this region? I appreciate the contact to people who have come to Basel from different regions of the world. The geographical location in the border triangle between Switzerland, Germany and France offers great opportunities for excursions and getting to know your neighbors. I have been enjoying working in Basel for almost 20 years.
4 Reasons to Think About Coworking Working in the same location using the same methods is effective for some, but can be a quick way to burn-out for others. Here are a few reasons why you should consider coworking. 1. Autonomy over your Workspace and Place Traditional office settings have you working at the same time, at the same place, every single day. This rigidity may be helpful at times, but can often stifle your ideas and ability to put forth your best work. Coworking allows for a change in pace and location, which aids in
an increase of creativity and freedom for your mind to roam. 2. Connections While working in a typical office, it is likely that you have already come to know and connect with your coworkers—even if you are separated by desks, rooms, or cubicles. Coworking helps to reduce feelings of isolation by relocating you and your coworkers at the center, allowing for more meaningful connections to be made. Moreover, working at an entirely new location with new people fosters even more
communication and connection, which is great for establishing a greater network and creating more visibility for your business. 3. Opportunities for Collaboration This ties in with the previous reason, connections, brought about by coworking. Working in a new environment allows for new networks to be created, which, in turn, can create new and unexpected opportunities to work with other people and businesses. This benefits all parties and businesses involved.
4. Reduced Costs and Flexibility Rather than buying or leasing an entire office, coworking allows for less money to be spent on space, which then generates more money for allocation for other sectors of business. This reduces the pressure of leases that are long-term, and many coworking spaces have amenities such as printing services, cleaning staff, internet accessibility, and other things that eat up much of the cost of a business. All of these things are great for any business— especially local, small, or startups.
For more information on The 5th Floor in US or Switzerland or to learn more about how you can do business with this 5th Floor Member, please e-mail us at Info@The5thFloor.US.
PLAY
A Definitive Guide to the Perfect Fall Night Current global health issues may not quickly be changing, but the season is! Here is a list of 10 things you can do to have a cozy autumn night in. Grab a blanket and your pumpkin drink of choice and read below for a great time!
books, E-books, and Amazon Prime books, finding a new piece of art to love is easier than ever. Can’t decide what to read or watch? Check out what books are popular on GoodReads.com and see what movies people are raving about on Letterboxd.com.
enjoying it with a picnic? Gather your favorite snacks, make a meal, or find photo inspiration of that charcuterie board you’ve been dying to make, head over to the park, set out a blanket, and enjoy how the crisp, cool air compliments your delicious creations!
tours, and augmented reality museums and artworks.
9. Play Dress Up One of the most fulfilling things to do is dress up for a night out. However, given the current circumstances, there are no longer many rea1. Bake a Pie sons to do so. Put your selfWhile often overlooked by 4. Throw yourself a Decoratlove and care into practice by those who are not culinariing Party 7. DIY Wine and Paint Night dressing up—full attire, hair, ly-inclined, baking a pie is Does your heart feel like fall? For a less costly, more soand makeup—and enjoy feela relatively simple process Well, your apartment should cially-distant alternative to ing wonderful while looking sure to get those fall feelings too! Pick up some decorathe Wine and Paint Parties your best. Another option is flowing. Many types of protions at the store and get to we love going to, try doing to get fully made-up in your duce perfect for pie baking work. Listen to your go-to the same thing at home! All Halloween costume. Take are now in season, such as fall music album and have you need are cheap paints pictures to commemorate the apples, pumpkins, pears, and fun with string lights, colorand canvases, your drink of outfit and, if you’re comfortplums—all of which are ful leaves, and orange and choice, and a painting tutori- able, share them on social available at your local grobrown decor. Don’t stop until al or an episode of Bob Ross media! cery store—as well as preyour place looks like the Pin- for a fun night releasing your made pie crusts. You can terest photo of your dreams! creativity. 10. Invoke your Inner Child even make your own with a Few things are more relaxing few household ingredients! 5. Have a Board Game Night 8. Visit a Virtual Museum and comforting than indulgPut on your favorite fall play- Gather up a small handful Staying home has never ing in something you loved list and let the oven’s of friends and family and been better than in the age as a kid, so take some time to warmth and fruits’ smells have yourselves a night of of technology—use it to make yourself feel that way take the place of your apple games! Try blackjack, classic take a virtual museum tour! again! Use your chairs, blanpie candle! board games like monopoFamous museums such as kets, and cushions to make ly, or a new card game like London’s British Gallery, a fort in your living room, 2. Cozy up with a good Book Cards Against Humanity. Paris’ Musée d’Orsay, Seoul’s make yourself monarch, and or Film Sit around, talk, and let the National Museum of Modern even create a secret password Lounging in your comfiest friendly competition begin— and Contemporary Art, and that others have to guess to blanket and slippers while the loser makes hot chocolate many more are available be allowed in. Allow yourself reading a book or watching for everyone! online through a quick to feel silly and excited about a movie is a surefire way to search. The Google Arts the leaves falling—just like channel the autumn spirit! 6. Go on a Picnic and Culture online website you did as a child! With all the streaming opWith the season changing, and mobile app also offers tions available for movies the weather changes too— high-definition pictures of and accessibility to audio what is more perfect than artworks, virtual museum
PLAY (Cont.)
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Kids ages 5 - 12 will enjoy: STEM, arts & crafts, sports, and more! 2020 - 2021 DATES: Oct. 19, Nov. 23 - 25, Dec. 21 - 23 and Dec. 28 - 30, Jan. 4 - 5, Jan. 18, Feb. 15, Mar. 15 - Mar. 19, Mar. 22, and Apr. 2 TIME: 7am-6pm COST: $25 per day for YMCA members, 35 per day for non-members LOCATION:
8th Annual Wiregrass Wobble Turkey Trot -5K Virtual Event November 1-29 DATE: Run or walk anytime between November 1-29 Run on your own, join a team, challenge your friends and family Packet pickup at FitNiche Flatwoods or by mail for an extra postage charge Runners receive: Wiregrass Wobble T-shirts Participant medal Back-pack style bags with goodies Online offers from sponsors Hosted by: Rotary Club of New Tampa AdventHealth Wesley Chapel FitNiche Proceeds go to local charities For more information and to register, go online to: https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Tampa/WiregrassWobbleTurkeyTrot5kVirtual * ROTARY CLUB OF NEW TAMPA FOUNDATION IS A 501 (c) (3), AND GIFTS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE AS PROVIDED BY LAW. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION (# CH17188) AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. THE TOLL- FREE NUMBER IS 1-800-435-7352. OUR TAX ID# IS 59-3722343.*
East Pasco YMCA 37301 Chapel Hill Loop 813-780-9622
Coming together to create a healthy community
Nancy & Sydney InQuickER Patients
“InQuickER was a savior that day.” When Sydney came home from school, she wasn’t feeling well. She had a high fever and it wasn’t going away. So, her mom found AdventHealth’s online scheduling tool, InQuicker, and reserved an ER treatment time, making Sydney’s visit fast and easy. Get in quicker and get out faster at an AdventHealth ER near you. GetInQuickER.com In case of a life-threatening emergency, call 911.
LIVE WELL (Cont.)
Managing Anxiety During Times of Uncertainty Anxiety and fear are real and part of everyone’s daily life. Anxiety has the opportunity to push us forward in life in productive ways or it can cause paralysis and can keep us stuck and unproductive. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and family specialist, I have seen an increase in anxiety for administrators, teachers, parents and students as they each try to navigate the uncertainty of going back to school in the midst of a pandemic. Whether a child goes back to school or chooses to learn online, all students and parents are faced with their own unique set of stressors. Life during a pandemic is filled with uncertainty, not just in terms of school related decisions, but all kinds of decisions which are not going anywhere any time soon. While many things remain outside of our control, our mindset is key to coping and managing our fears, our feelings and an uncertain future. For many of us, the way we cope with uncertainty is to worry, and worrying can make it seems like we have some control over uncertain circumstances. We often fuel our worry by listening to everything in the media, thinking that more knowledge will somehow help us control our future. Chronic worry cannot give us more control; instead, it just robs us of enjoyment in the present, drains our energy, and keeps us up at night. My encouragement to parents right now is, first, to recognize that your children tend to mirror your emotionality, so be sure you are regulating your own emotions well. Secondly, empower yourself with the
confidence and courage that you are making the best decision for your children, even if others around you are making different choices. Thirdly, teach your children coping strategies so they can better manage their own fears and anxiety.
Healthy Ways to Cope with Uncertainty and Anxiety TIP #1: Focus on the things you can control While learning to focus on the things you can control, it is equally important to let go of the things you cannot control. While you cannot control the spread of the virus, you can control yourself. The following strategies with help ground you with tangible ways of controlling yourself. 1. Maintain a Routine Rather than spending time worrying about thing you cannot change, work at creating a structure and routine for yourself. Structure and routine provide a person a sense of normalcy and security during times of uncertainty and it helps us manage the anxieties around us as we recognize that we do have control of ourselves.
attention of good self - care: better eating habits, sleeping habits, exercise, and meaningful connections with others. These disciplines empower us to take control of what we can control which gives us more courage and stamina to face the challenges we face in the midst of uncertainly. 3. Stay Connected It is in the context of meaningful relationships that we grow and change. With the isolation that many have experienced during Covid 19, there has been a rise in depression, anxiety, loneliness and even hopelessness. We have to learn how to initiate and connect in new ways and work hard at this in order to manage the uncertainty around us. It is easier to manage our challenges when we have a team of family and friends around to support us.
TIP #2: Focus on the present Uncertainty often triggers worries about the future and all the bad things we can anticipate happening. When we worry about the future it can fuel feelings such as despair, depression, anxiety and hope2. Take Care of Your Body lessness as well as exaggerate and Spirit the scope of the problem, parWhen creating a structure and alyzing us from taking action. routine for yourself, choose Instead of trying to predict to put’ life-giving’ experiencwhat might happen in the es in your schedule. Rather future or ruminating on the than laying around moping or things you might be afraid of, engaging in passive entertain- switch your attention to what ment, get out and move tois happening in your present ward something enjoyable and reality. active. This creates the elevation of dopamine in the brain 1. Practice Mindfulness which helps to regulate mood Mindfulness is a practice that and improves overall emocan shift your preoccupation tional well - being. It is equal- with future worries to a stronly important during times ger appreciation of the present of uncertainty to focus your moment, as well as help calm
your mind, ease your stress, and boost your overall mood. One example for practicing mindfulness is being aware of all your senses; what are you seeing hearing, smelling, and touching in the present moment and engaging in those things, allowing the present experience to calm you and energize you. Another example is to shift your focus to your breathing and then emptying your mind of all negative thoughts and then replacing the negative thoughts with positive one. One of the best ways that I practice mindfulness is by going on a walk and listening to specific songs from my play list that shape my mindset to the present and the positive, allowing me to let go of the negative, the worries and the future uncertainties. 2. Practice Gratitude When we choose to give thanks in one small thing at a time, the moments add up. Giving thanks is something we have to learn to practice and when we do the results are positive because giving thanks allows up to shift our mind-set from what we don’t have to all that we do have; or from what we are worried about to what is going on right now in the moment. The personal benefits of practicing gratitude is a sense of peace and joy rather than fear and anxiety. Nancy A. Johnson, EdD, LMHC Orlando Counseling Specialists 3662 Avalon Park E. Blvd Suite 2021 Orlando, FL. 32828 407-902-9250
COMMUNITY CORNER GUEST SUBMISSION
A Change of Place
A look into place, pace and a neighborhood’s walks of life. When thinking about the ways in which conventional suburban developments and traditional neighborhood developments differ, the answers lie in the mixeduse aesthetic of the latter—an important concept discussed in the previous article, “How Would You Like to Grow?” which discusses the primary differences between conventional suburbia and traditional neighborhoods. A key feature of traditional neighborhood developments is, again, the idea of “mixed-use” planning: the residential, institutional, and commercial arranged in a way that they intersect and create larger opportunities to foster connections among people. On an even smaller scale, then, we can outline the very basics upon which mixed-use, traditional neighborhood developments rely. These basics, or fundamental components of traditional neighborhoods, all serve the pedestrian in building a successfully “walkable” place, or a place whose recreational and functional parts can be easily accessed via foot. They also contribute to the larger sense of community, displacing the suburban anonymity common in conventional suburban developments. Perhaps the most basic building block of traditional neighborhoods are blocks, or simply streets.
ter homes of conventional suburbia, people of all social and economic strata are able to live, work, and function in traditional neighborhoods. From apartment buildings, to units for living above businesses, to townhomes, to houses, traditional neighborhoods cater to many economic classes. Again, the word accessibility is useful: many As briefly mentioned, con- text-based” street design, types of living arrangeventional suburbia was or an ideology anonymous, essentially which suggests that streets ments means many types isolated; everything built in should respond to land-use of people living in a neighborhood, leading to a neits own separate pod with and the commercial, insticessity for multiple schools a necessity for automobiles tutional, and residential and places of worship. This to reach other destinations. needs of an area. InstituTraditional neighborhoods tionally speaking, this con- true diversity is something have fully strayed from cept of designing streets to achieved only by a tradithis concept, opting instead maximize movement while tional neighborhood dedicated to its inhabitants, for “shared also providing natural making for an increasingly space” streets, which trans- environmental buffers is varied population to occuforms streets from serving what allows for py schools and places of a purpose of optimal vespaces like schools and worship. Due to this close hicular mobility to public places of worship to be proximity of dense resispaces that serve many accessible. In a traditional dential housing, traditional social and economic funcneighborhood, it is often tions while also contributthe case that there is an el- neighborhoods create an ing to the ementary school, a middle ideal mix of uses for daily needs. Again, a mixednature of a community. school, and a high school use community allows for It is said that, on average, all relative to one anothaccessibility and closeness people are willing to walk er—close enough to walk, ¼ of a mile before deciding but far enough so as not to to necessities such as places for medical and finanto drive. While traditionovercrowd one particular al neighborhood develarea. Similar is the case for cial needs, grocery stores, arts like music and dance opments cannot achieve places of worship, whethstudios, gas stations, and what some cities can, such er it be churches, temples, professional businesses. as a public transportation mosques, or other Later, in a new article, we system and corner stores religious settings. will delve further into the on every block, neighboridea of complete streets, hoods can and do offer a Now, it is important to how they are constructed, public space—whether a bring up how and why and the ways in which they pool, park, school, or anmultiple places of schoolcontribute to multiple facother public space—within ing and worship are efets of traditional neighbor¼ of a mile. fective in a traditional neighborhood. Due to their hood developments. These ideas, then, blend accessibility and diverinto the idea of “congence from the cookie-cut-
COMMUNITY (Cont.)
GUEST SUBMISSION
It’s Time To Get Off The Davenport And Shed The Quarantine 15!
I saw the doc for the first time since Covid-19 disrupted our very existence. He gave me the long face, but I was thrilled that I only gained nine pounds since last year’s physical. Unfortunately, that nine pounds had a surprisingly negative affect on my internal plumbing and lab results. BP was slightly higher, clothes were fitting more snugly, Cholesterol markers were up, Uric Acid jumped, and worst of all blood sugar was elevated. I am not a fan of taking prescription meds, primarily because I am cheap. Just because I own Merck stock doesn’t mean I want to pay their retail pharmacy prices. And no way am I capable of injecting myself with insulin each daily.
that 3,500 calories equal one pound. To apply this weight loss, our daily calorie deficit (calories needed minus calories consumed) must be 500 calories to lose one pound in a week. Doable if you know what your true calorie burn rate is…otherwise it’s a guess.
Here are a couple of other significant considerations at my ripe old age. In addition to pure weight loss, I have to consider my health conditions. I have osteoarthritis so I need foods to help reduce my joint inflammation. Most importantly, I am too cantankerous to just give up
committed to writing).
1. To begin, I estimated my daily calorie burn rate on several online calculators – just Google it. The calculations consider age, height, current weight, and lifestyle. As your weight drops, your burn rate also reduces. That’s right, the less you weigh, less calories you can consume. Activity must increase to offset the difference if you want to stay at the same calorie intake level. My estimated daily calorie burn rate is 2,930 (+/- 5%) which includes moderate activity. At 1,800 calories per day, I should lose 2 pounds per
3. Developing a meal plan is complicated. First, you must target the time of day you can devour your carefully chosen calories. If you’re like me, I can’t stand to be hungry, so I am a “snacker.” I have divided my calories into four buckets – breakfast (25% of daily calories), lunch (35%), dinner (25%) and snacks (15%).
When I was younger, losing nine pounds was nothing. I could cut out the beer, burgers, and wings, crank up my gym time and voilà! These days, not so much. Now I just think about drinking a beer and I have to loosen up my belt. So, what to do? Being a zealot pour la cause du jour with an eternal quest for knowledge, I turned the idea of slenderizing into a research project. I amused myself with illusions of writing the next great get-fit treatise. But not just a diet book, a change your life book for quinquagenarians and older. Something Richard Simmonsesque like “Don’t Be 50 and Fat!” A plan for those of us whose bones creak like a hundred-year-old wooden floor and whose metabolism rate has fallen like the anvil Wiley Coyote dropped trying to get the Roadrunner. A guide for those who think a triathlon is a 6-pack, pizza, and football game. If Family Feud asked the secret to losing weight the number one answer would be, “Eat fewer calories than you burn.” Right? While that may be true, calculating individual’s base calorie rate is scientific and unique to that person. It is fact
2. Next, I studied the right types of foods I can enjoy for my new lifestyle. I made a list of foods I enjoy, those with antioxidants (which includes dark chocolate!), foods that lessen joint inflammation (try Turmeric), and food prep is also essential. There are days when I can spend hours in the kitchen. Other days, I am traveling and have to eat on the road. A pre-prescribed, pre-packaged box lunch will not feed my cravings. It is crucial that it is food you love for this lifestyle change to last. This must be an adventure, not something you dread.
foods I like; restrictive diets are the proverbial dawg that don’t hunt. Besides, no one wants to be around me when I’m hangry. With writing as my avocation, I started my Top Five list of must dos for losing the Quarantine 15. It can certainly be accomplished, and without as much sacrifice as I imagined. I am down 13 pounds for September, but these were the easy pounds to lose. Since retiring from my sports career several years back following my last knee surgery, I have been packing on pounds at a rate of 10 pounds per year. My target is losing 50 pounds, by April 17, 2021. (Remember: Goals must be measurable and
week. This amount is pretty easily attained, but alcohol and bored eating must be severely restricted. I am actually able to average closer to 1,400 per day, so I grant myself rewards once or twice per week like a glass of Chardonnay with a nice meal. Alcohol is a triple whammy. First, your body metabolizes booze first – before fat calories are burned. Next, it’s hard to measure alcohol intake (How much you actually quaffed is tough to measure when your favorite bartender gives you the “big tipper” pour!). Lastly, those generous pours give me the munchies which are all bad calories! Avoid the Goldfish and pretzels!
I research intermittent fasting and how it is effective for burning fat. I adopted the 14/10 method which has been easy for me. I start my timer following my dinner which is usually around 6:00PM, and don’t eat breakfast until 8:00AM the next morning. I confine my eating to a 10-hour period each day. I have coffee with cream when I get up – but nothing sugary to spike blood insulin! And finally, my calories are spread 50% good fats / 30% proteins / 20% carbs. Keeping this ratio can be challenging. A good steak will explode the fat grams count, and fruits and vegetables contain healthy carbs (gone are the scorned bread, potatoes, rice, and sugar!) Chicken breasts and fish help keep things in check. There are myriad of spices and healthy sauces, so you never run out of variety! ...continue reading on our blog.
COMMUNITY (Cont.)
Remembering A Friend: Jo Baughman
Jo Baughman, director of the Pasco Fine Arts Council (PFAC) was a beloved friend of the art community and a talented artist. Her passion for art was always evident and she shared that not only with her colleagues and students, but with everyone she spoke to. The art community suffered a great loss with her passing. Jo’s memory and love for the arts will continue to live on through all the lives she touched.
