Avalon Park Sun Wesley Chapel September 2023

Downtown Updates and Fall Events at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel

Exciting updates are in store for Downtown Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, as we proudly welcome new tenants to our growing community. Rita’s Italian Ice, Prime Barbershop, and Rudraksh, a new restaurant featuring delectable Indian cuisine, are now part of our downtown, adding their unique flavors and services to the mix. Get ready to savor refreshing Italian ice treats from Rita’s, experience top-notch grooming services at Prime Barbershop, and indulge in the diverse and flavorful dishes from Rudraksh.

We would like to thank everyone who joined us for the Behind-the-Scenes tour of Downtown Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. The event featured a dusty boots tour of the construction site as well as a 360 virtual reality tour of the downtown. For those who were unable to attend the tour, we have great news! You can now experience the virtual tour of Downtown Avalon Park Wesley Chapel from home. Check out the virtual tour here

October 11th, 6-8 pm for a complimentary wine tasting and merchandise launch with the Avalon General store. Get your free ticket for the wine tasting here

Enjoy a sweet night of smooth jazz with friends and family during the Jazz Under the Starz event on Saturday, October 14th, hosted by Coffee Speaks n’ Tea Talks. Bring out your lawn chairs, sit back, relax, and enjoy the sounds of wonderful music.

As the fall season approaches, Avalon Park Wesley Chapel continues to be a hub of activity, offering a range of fun and family-friendly events for everyone to enjoy.

Kicking off the fall activities is our monthly Movie Under the Stars event, taking place the second Friday of every month at sundown. Join us for this month’s featured movie, The Lion King on Friday, September 8th.

Meet us at the Community Clubhouse on Wednesday,

Get the whole family together for a Spooky night of costume parades, haunted houses, music, food and much more at our annual Spooktacular celebration on Saturday, October 21st, 5-8 pm.

Avalon Park residents are also encouraged to showcase their Spooky side all month by participating in the Porch Decorating Contest

Finally, save the date for our annual holiday celebration, Avalon Aglow on Saturday, December 9th, 5-8 pm. Take pictures with Santa, take a ride down the snow slide, get your face painted, visit the local vendors, enjoy the delicious food trucks, and stick around for an exciting fireworks show!

As always there are opportunities for the community to participate with a community performance by filling out the Performance Request, set up a Vendors Booth or even showcase your business with a sponsorship

For more information on this and other Avalon Park Events visit AvalonParkWesleyChapel.com or call 813783-1515.

all the stakeholders. From the residents and business owners to the investors, the concept of partnerships and working together has proven to be a winning model in the development of this small town. TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK.

It would take pages to list all the partnerships Avalon Park Group has entered in the last 25 years, and without those partnerships, there would not be a great town where people can live, learn, work and play today and for future generations.

Whenever you have a dream, and the dream is strong enough you work hard and passionately. Most of the time you reach your goal eventually, despite all the challenges and setbacks on the way. However, when you analyze the most important ingredient of success on a large scale, it is my opinion that it all comes back to partnerships and working together.

I learned from my native country Switzerland, the concepts of working together, building

all your neighbors “on board.” When I came to Wesley Chapel, there were no neighbors to the land planned to be Avalon Park. And when I approached different organizations to work together, at first, they were surprised. Why would Avalon Park Group donate land for schools and park space? The answer lies in the fact that teamwork and partnerships are crucial to building strong communities. The success of Avalon Park Wesley Chapel and its Downtown relies on the community members that live, learn, work, and play here. Building a vital Downtown Avalon Park lies in our continued spirit of collaboration.

While most great visions are not the creation of a committee or group, rather a single driven individual pursuing a dream, the implementation of great visions is always the product of teamwork.

In keeping with this vision, we would like your feedback on the vision you have for this community. From businesses, events, and organizations you would like to see in Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, to community challenges you see, we want to hear from you. Submit your feedback by emailing: Info@AvalonParkSun. com.

DIRECTOR

Use Handy Tool to Report Hurricane Idalia Damage in Pasco County

Click on this direct link: mypas.co/ReportDamage

Download the MyPasco App in the App Store or on Google Play

Call or Chat with Customer Service: 727.847.2411 / MyPasco.net

This tool allows Pasco County to gather accurate community information to help the State of Florida and the Federal Emergency Management Agency determine if Pasco County has enough damages to seek federal financial assistance.

Note: Please report downed power lines to 911.

Pasco County Government is offering an online tool to report storm damage following Hurricane Idalia. This is the fastest way to get help and schedule inspections with the county. We encourage you to upload a photo, too.

Just click on Report Damage to send information about the non-emergency damages directly to our assessment teams. This tool is to report structural damage to homes and businesses only.

You can access the Report Damage tool in a few convenient ways: Visit our website: MyPasco.net

If you have an emergency, call or text 911. For other concerns or questions, call or chat with Pasco County Customer Service at 727-847-2411.

Tax Collector Mike Fasano’s Offices to Support Premier Community HealthCare’s Expansion of Medical Services During the Month of September

Tax Collector Mike Fasano’s five offices will feature Premier Community HealthCare’s efforts to expand health services to those in need as the featured charitable organization for the month of September. All proceeds from this promotional effort will benefit Premier Community HealthCare, which is the primary non-profit agency to provide health care to the uninsured and under-insured in Pasco County.

“For many years it has been an honor to be affiliated with Premier Community HealthCare and their efforts to provide and expand availability of medical services to those most in need in our community,” comments Tax Collector Mike Fasano. “Premier Community HealthCare has a long history of providing medical care for those without access to primary health care in Pasco County. As our featured Charity-of-the-Month it is our hope to raise funds which will help Premier Community HealthCare move closer to their goal to provide these services to even more individuals and families in need.”

Donations can be made at any of the five tax collector

locations in Pasco County. For those who would like to give online, the tax collector’s office’s charitable giving arm Pasco TC Gives has a webpage through which donations for Premier Community HealthCare (Charity of the Month) can be made: https://www. govhub.com/fl-pasco/tc-gives/donate

For more information about Premier Community HealthCare’s services please contact Cheryl Pollack, Community Engagement Officer at 352.518.2000, ext. 9012. For more information about the promotional and charitable giving programs at the tax collector’s office please contact Assistant Tax Collector Greg Giordano at 727-847-8179 or visit www.pascotaxes. com

LEARN

WORK

Finalists Named for Pasco EDC’s 35th Annual Awards

The Pasco Economic Development Council (Pasco EDC) is set to host the Annual Awards for its 35th year recognizing Pasco County companies’ outstanding achievements.

The Pasco EDC Annual Awards Committee has interviewed all finalists and chosen winners in multiple categories recognizing those who have demonstrated innovation and exhibited economic and community impact during 2022, as well as a SMARTstart participant who has grown tremendously as a start-up business.

This year’s finalists include:

4 & Co.

43 Inc.

Amerikey Locksmith

AmSkills

Architectural Signage & Printing

Baymar Solutions LLC

Davron

Florida Avenue Brewing Co.

Fraud Doctor, LLC

Global ETS, LLC

Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas & West Pasco Counties

Just Market It

K&K Food Industries

Marjorie’s Hope

NEAT Coffee Bar, LLC

NFANT Labs

Sarah Vande Berg Tennis Center

Suncoast Clinical Research, Inc

Ultimate 3D Printing Store Vesh Catering

In addition to the business awards, every year the Pasco EDC’s Policy Council chooses someone who has made an exceptional impact in economic development and the Pasco community to honor with the Leadership Award. This year, the Policy Council has chosen to honor Ray Gadd, Deputy Superintendent, Pasco County Schools… Read more.

“Pasco EDC is looking forward to hosting our Annual Awards event in its 35th year once again at the Pasco Hernando State College Instructional Performing Arts Center (IPAC),” said Bill Cronin, Pasco EDC President/ CEO. “We are excited to honor the companies who have gone above and beyond while demonstrating economic excellence in our local community.”

The event will take place on Thursday, September 7, 2023, at the Pasco Hernando State College Instructional Performing Arts Center (IPAC). This event is regarded as Pasco County’s premier business event, attracting over 400 business and community leaders in Tampa Bay and Pasco County, including State legislators, county commissioners, and city officials. It will feature dinner and networking, followed by the business awards program where this year’s winners will be announced. Learn more about this year’s award categories, sponsorship opportunities, and reserve your spot now, here.

Pasco EDC Honors Deputy Superintendent of Pasco Schools, Ray Gadd, with Leadership Award

The Pasco Economic Development Council (Pasco EDC) is excited to welcome back the Annual Awards for its 35th year. This year, Pasco EDC will be honoring Ray Gadd with the Leadership Award. He has played a pivotal role in developing the future of Pasco County’s public education system and was critical in the passing of the Penny for Pasco over 20 years ago.

“Ray is an incredible leader that has always had the best interests of Pasco County at heart,” stated Kurt Browning, Pasco County Superintendent of Schools. “His ability to get things done is a testament to his work ethic and his commitment to the children and families of Pasco County. It has been an absolute pleasure to serve with Ray!”

Gadd started working with Pasco County Schools in 2012 as the Deputy Superintendent of Schools. He has been involved in education and human services for over 40 years, including serving on the Central Florida Behavioral Health Network, Pasco Planning Commission, Pasco Pediatric Foundation, and several other local nonprofit organizations. Gadd worked with officials to help pass the Penny for Pasco in 2004 which benefits schools, economic development, infrastructure, and more.

“We are honored to bestow Ray with the Leadership Award this year. I have had the privilege of working with Ray since I began working in Pasco County through his position with Pasco County Schools and work in passing the Penny for Pasco which has been vital in improving the economic development landscape of our community,” said Bill Cronin, Pasco EDC President/CEO. “Ray’s eye to

improving the community and dedication to the wellness of children are only a few of the reasons why he is being honored with this award.”

Gadd has been instrumental in many of the state-of-the-art campuses developed by Pasco Schools. He understands the importance of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) education, which focuses on innovation and creativity and prepares students for indemand careers right here in Pasco County. Two of the recently opened STEAM schools include Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation in Wesley Chapel and the Angeline Academy of Innovation opening this week off the newly opened Ridge Road and Suncoast Parkway exit.

Gadd will be honored with this award at the Pasco EDC’s Annual Awards accompanied by a video tribute from family, friends, and colleagues. He is happily married to his wife Cathy Peckett and together they have a daughter, son-in-law, and two grandchildren.

The event will take place on Thursday, September 7, 2023, at the Pasco Hernando State College Instructional Performing Arts Center (IPAC). If you would like to attend, reserve your spot now as tickets are limited, here.

Rita’s Italian Ice Joins Downtown Avalon Park Wesley Chapel as New Tenant

Avalon Park Group/sitEX is excited to announce that Rita’s Italian Ice will be opening its newest location at 4424 Friendly Way, Ste. I in Downtown Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. Rita’s Italian Ice is a well-loved and established brand known for its delicious and refreshing frozen treats. This will be the second location for owners Antoine and Idalice Stokes.

“We are thrilled to become a part of the Downtown Avalon Park Wesley Chapel community,” said Idalice Stokes, Owner at Rita’s Italian Ice. “Our mission has always been to create smiles and memories with our mouthwatering Italian ice and frozen custard. We look forward to serving the local residents and visitors and becoming a favorite destination for families, friends, and all those with a sweet tooth.”

indulgent experience. Rita’s commitment to highquality ingredients and unique flavors ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

“We are delighted to welcome Rita’s Italian Ice to Downtown Avalon Park Wesley Chapel,” said Beat Kahli, President and CEO of Avalon Park Group. “Rita’s reputation for delivering exceptional frozen treats aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing a diverse and enjoyable experience for our community members. We believe that Rita’s will quickly become a cherished destination for families, friends, and anyone seeking a delicious and refreshing treat.”

For more information about Rita’s Italian Ice, their menu offerings, and updates on their Downtown Avalon Park Wesley Chapel location, visit https:// www.ritasice.com/ or on social media with the handle @ritasice.

For more information on Avalon Park Wesley Chapel visit https://avalonparkwesleychapel. com/ or on social media with the handle @ AvalonParkWesleyChapel.

Rita’s Italian Ice is renowned for its wide range of delectable frozen treats, including classic Italian ice in a variety of flavors that are perfect for beating the Florida heat. Their frozen custard, made fresh daily, is velvety and rich, offering a delightful contrast to the icy treats. Customers can enjoy their treats on their own or combine them for a truly

The Point Distillery Expanding and Adding Manufacturing Line for New Products in Pasco County

The Pasco Economic Development Council (Pasco EDC) is happy to announce the expansion of The Point Distillery in New Port Richey, Florida. The company will be adding new bottling lines and 20-25 new jobs. This will allow the company to take on more clients and obtain additional contracts, while expanding their reach throughout the country and internationally.

“This is great news and wonderful timing as more manufacturers begin to locate along the State Road 52 corridor,” said Bill Cronin, President/CEO, Pasco EDC. “This expansion will provide The Point Distillery with new opportunities to produce a variety of spirits for new and exciting markets; and the best part is that it’s happening right here in Pasco County.”

The Point Distillery opened in Pasco County in 2018 after the facility and equipment of a previous distillery operation stayed vacant and unused for three years. Owner Spencer Wolf and partners made the decision to invest an initial $1.3 million in reopening the 30,000 square foot distillery in western Pasco County. The building and equipment required extensive rehabilitation prior to being able to operate and the Pasco Board of County Commissioners assisted with an initial Penny-for-Pasco-funded, low-interest loan.

“We are delighted with the support from Pasco County and eagerly look forward to our continuing development and expansion,” shared Spencer Wolf, CEO, The Point Distillery.

The Point Distillery is a local Target Industry established over four years ago. Over the past three years, the company has purchased and installed $266,935 worth of new equipment, doubling its volume nationally and internationally while providing job opportunities to area residents. Today, the Pasco Board of County Commissioners approved an agreement restructuring the company’s existing equipment loan in good standing, adding an additional $150,000 to purchase an automatic filling machine which accommodates specialty bottling capability. This funding is available through the Penny for Pasco and brings the total amount of the loan from the county to $239,581.96.

“This agreement is a shining example of how we can use Penny for Pasco funding to revitalize our community,” said Pasco Board of County Commissioners Chair Jack Mariano. “The Point Distillery, with the county’s help, turned a closed business into a profitable business, providing jobs and improving our local economy.”

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Coming together to create a healthy community

COMMUNITY CORNER