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KEEPING THE NEWS LOCAL & THE COMMUNITY CONNECTED.

SEPTEMBER 2026

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Where Community Meets Wonder

Avalon Park Group Joins Memoir Agency as Co-Owner to Bring World-Class Experiences Home For more than 25 years, Avalon Park Group has believed that a great community is about far more than buildings. It is about the moments that happen between them: the festivals, the concerts, the seasonal celebrations, and the everyday gatherings that turn neighbors into friends and a place into a home.

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Now, APG is taking that belief to an exciting new level. The company has become a co-owner of Memoir Agency, the Orlando-based experiential design and event company best known for creating Dazzling Nights, the immersive holiday experience that welcomed more than 100,000 guests to Harry P. Leu Gardens in 2026. Each organization brings its own mission, and together they meet in a shared vision: creating a genuine sense of place and belonging, and communities where everyone feels at home.

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can be woven into Avalon Park communities from the earliest stages of planning. Imagine permanent interactive installations, public art, imaginative play spaces, artistic lighting, and original live entertainment, each shaped around the unique story of the community it calls home. The collaboration will enhance the events residents already love, introduce new ones across Avalon Park’s existing and developing communities in Orlando, Wesley Chapel, Tavares, Groveland and Daytona Beach, and expand the reach of the wonderfully creative Dazzling Nights design to new audiences across Florida and beyond.

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“Bringing on Avalon Park Group as a co-owner gives us the resources and long-term support to continue creating the best events in the world,” said Cole NeSmith, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Memoir Agency. “Even more, we are excited to extend our mission, to make every place and moment meaningful, to the communities where people live, learn, work and play every day.” For residents, it means more opportunities to connect, discover, and build shared traditions close to home. For visitors, it means new reasons to experience Avalon Park communities as destinations. And for local businesses, more programming and more visitors can mean greater foot traffic and lasting economic activity.

“Avalon Park Group thinks in decades, not quarters,” said Beat Kahli, Founder, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Avalon Park Group. “A thriving community is one where people feel connected, where they build traditions, and where they want to spend their time. Memoir Agency understands that, and it is a philosophy deeply aligned with the way we approach development.” Memoir specializes in large-scale, immersive experiences that bring people together. Each year, Dazzling Nights transforms the 50-acre botanical garden at Leu Gardens through original artistic environments, live entertainment, custom lighting, and interactive installations. With APG’s support, Memoir will expand its design and production capabilities, develop new original shows, and form new venue partnerships across the country and beyond. For Avalon Park residents, though, the most exciting part is much closer to home.

For a company that has always measured success by the strength of its community, it is one more way to make every place, and every moment, meaningful.

Tickets for Dazzling Nights Orlando are now available. Prices start at $35 for adults and $33 for children ages 4 to 12; listed prices include fees, and tax is additional. Children ages 3 and under are admitted free. All tickets are purchased in advance for a specific date and Through Memoir’s Immersive Master Plan™ time, and early purchase is recommended for the best framework, the two companies have already started availability. Tickets and additional information are exploring how storytelling, art, and entertainment available at www.dazzlingorlando.com.

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This morning, August 30, 2026, I am in Zurich, Switzerland, enjoying the view from my home out over the city and into the mountains. The sky is blue, the temperature is in the high 50s, and it is a welcome break from the heat back home in Central Florida. Two thirds of 2026 are now in the rearview mirror, and they have brought Avalon Park Group a great deal of new and exciting developments.

As reported in our last edition of the Sun, we are working on a 250-acre regional park just south of Avalon Park Orlando, an APG-financed project for the entire region. Our goal is to secure the land before year end, begin planning in early 2027, and start construction on the fields by the middle of 2027. A project of this scale requires the cooperation of various government entities, primarily the stategoverned landowners. It will be a game changer for East Orange County and beyond. In meetings with officials over the past several months, every local and state politician I spoke with welcomed and supported this initiative. While in Zurich, I am spending time with my father, who will soon turn 89. He is a happy senior in good physical health, still able to live on his own thanks to the wonderful care of my sister and brother. He is, however, living with memory loss. That is one of the reasons I accepted the role of Chair of the Alzheimer’s Walk in 2027, and why I recently joined the board of the Alzheimer’s Association. As many of us know, Alzheimer’s is a widespread disease with no cure available yet. On October 3, 2026, the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s will take place at Lake Eola in Downtown Orlando, and I would like to personally invite you to join us. It is our goal at APG to field the largest team at this year’s walk and to show just how much the Avalon Park community cares about this cause.

are leading in races with no primary. In total, 18 of the 21 candidates we have supported are on track to win or have already won. That is a wonderful result. Unfortunately, roughly 75 percent of all eligible voters did not cast a ballot, which is not a good result at all. Look for the updated Voter Guide in our October edition, where the Sun will provide a non-partisan snapshot of the candidates and ballot measures that are on the ballot in our region. I encourage you to get involved, research what is on the ballot and most importantly, VOTE! APG has organized events in Central Florida for over 25 years, and this has been an important element in creating a sense of place and belonging in Avalon Park. We are excited to build on that tradition and to continue our work of placemaking for years to come. It is in that spirit that APG has become a co-owner of Memoir Agency, an events and experiential design company that is the owner and organizer of Dazzling Nights at Leu Gardens, which welcomed more than 100,000 ticketed guests in 2026. Memoir specializes in creating immersive, large-scale experiences that bring people together, and this new APG becoming a coowner will allow us to do even more of what we love. Working alongside our events department, under the leadership of Stephanie Lerret (who will join the Board of Directors of Memoir alongside JJ Sofarelli of APG), the Memoir team will help us enhance the events our residents already enjoy, add new events across our existing and developing Avalon Park communities, and expand the footprint of the wonderfully creative Dazzling Nights design to new audiences across Florida and beyond. (See page one of this edition.) So as the year moves into its final stretch, I hope you will join us. Show up, get involved, and help us make this community all that it can be. See you soon back in the “Bubble.” (The endearing nickname for the Avalon Park Orlando area).

On a proud note: Encore, our Assisted Living and Memory Care community in Avalon Park, was just voted the Best Assisted Living Facility in Florida. The political season continues as well. APG supports, by and large, candidates who make smart growth, a more diversified economy, and affordable housing a priority. This cycle, we contributed to 21 candidates across four counties, the state, and a few cities. Two won outright, seven are heading to a runoff, and nine

*Some content in this publication is generated using AI.

From the Desk of Commissioner Maribel Gomez Cordero

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The Strength of Our Community Begins With Each of Us As we welcome the month of September, I am reminded of the many things that make District 4 such a special place to call home. Our community is strengthened by neighbors who care for one another, families who support each other, volunteers who give their time, and residents who take an active role in making our neighborhoods better.

positive impact in our community.

As we continue through hurricane season, I also encourage every family to remain prepared. September is an important time to review your emergency plan, check your disaster supply kit, make sure important documents are secure, and stay informed about weather conditions. Preparation is not something we should wait to do until One of the greatest strengths of our a storm is approaching. Taking a few community is the willingness of our simple steps today can make a significant residents to get involved. Whether you difference when an emergency occurs. attend a neighborhood meeting, volunteer at a local organization, support a small I also want to remind District 4 residents business, participate in a community that my office is here to serve you. If you event, or simply check on a neighbor, are experiencing an issue with a County every contribution makes a difference. I service, need assistance connecting with a encourage everyone to stay connected, County department, or have an idea that share your ideas, and continue working could improve our community, please together to build a stronger and more reach out to my team. We are always grateful for the opportunity to listen, welcoming District 4. assist, and connect residents with the September also marks the beginning of resources available to them. Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15 through October 15. This is a special As we enter the final months of the year, I time to celebrate the rich history, culture, want to thank the residents of District 4 for traditions, and many contributions of allowing me the privilege of serving you. Hispanic and Latino families throughout It is an honor to represent a community with hardworking families, Orange County. Our community filled is stronger because of the diverse dedicated volunteers, small-business backgrounds and experiences of the owners, community organizations, and people who call Orange County home. I neighbors who care deeply about where am proud to celebrate the entrepreneurs, they live. educators, community leaders, families, and residents who continue to make a Together, through kindness, service, and

community involvement, we can continue making District 4 and Orange County a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. May you and your families have a safe, blessed, and wonderful September. Blessings, Commissioner Maribel Gomez Cordero Orange County District 4

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Stay on The Grind at Avalon Park Gym

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As the leaves start to turn here in Central Florida, Avalon Park now at AvalonParkGym.com or by calling (407) 988-3884. Gym is gearing up for a season packed with fresh challenges, community workouts, and a few schedule tweaks worth The Metabolic Intensive noting. For members more focused on nutrition than reps, The Metabolic Intensive continues its final Saturday sessions this Labor Day Hours & New Class Schedule month, meeting from 10 AM–12 PM at The 5th Floor Orlando Before the fall programming kicks off, mark your calendar for through September 26th. Led by TaShawn Davis, RN & Labor Day, September 7th. Avalon Park Gym will be open on Metabolic Health Coach, and Michelle Sheedy, Food Swap modified hours from 8 AM to 12 PM, so members can still get Expert, this hands-on series dives into insulin resistance and a morning session in before the holiday festivities begin. its surprising links to brain fog, belly fat, blood pressure, and energy levels with low-carb dish tastings included at every September also brings an updated group exercise schedule session. (effective 9/1/2026), so be sure to check the latest times and offerings before you head in. One notable change: Body Blast Save the Date: Grace Foley Rock Your Socks 5K has moved from its old 6 AM Friday slot to Thursday at 6 AM, Avalon Park Gym is a proud sponsor of the Grace Foley Rock so early risers should adjust their routines accordingly. View Your Socks 5K, hosted by the Avalon Park Foundation on the full weekly lineup at AvalonParkGym.com. Saturday, October 10th at 8 AM at Town Park. The race began in memory of Grace, a young member of the Avalon Park The Grind: Fall Boot Camp community who passed away from epilepsy, and has grown If you’re looking to reset your fitness routine this fall, The Grind: into a community-wide event inviting runners to wear their Fall Boot Camp is the program for you. Running every Tuesday brightest, most colorful socks in support of any cause close to and Thursday from September 29th through November 5th, their heart. from 5–6 PM at Founder’s Square, this 12-session outdoor boot camp is built to take participants from benchmark to While race day falls in October, pre-registration at the lowest breakthrough. rate ($20 adults / $10 kids) ends September 29th, so now’s the time to lock in your spot before prices increase. Register at Each week has a specific focus, progressing from foundational AvalonParkFoundation.com. movement to peak performance: Fall Prep Starts Now • Week 1: Foundation & Benchmark Whether you’re chasing a personal record at boot camp, • Week 2: Strength Foundation rethinking your relationship with sugar, or simply getting • Week 3: Conditioning Build back into a routine after a long summer, Avalon Park Gym has • Week 4: Strength & Power something on the calendar for you this September. There’s no • Week 5: Peak Intensity better time to lace up and join in. • Week 6: Peak Performance & Retest Pricing options include Standard Enrollment ($159.99), an Early Bird Special ($139.99 for the first 10 spots), and Partner Sign-Up ($149.99 per person) a great incentive to bring a friend or neighbor into your fall fitness goals. Registration is available

Learn more or sign up at AvalonParkGym.com or call (407) 988-3884. Avalon Park Gym is located at 12001 Avalon Lake Drive, Suite M-P, in the heart of Downtown Avalon Park. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook!

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Encore at Avalon Park Named a 2026 Best of Florida Award Winner Encore at Avalon Park Assisted Living and Memory Care Community has been named a Best of Florida winner in the Senior and Assisted Living Communities category, an honor determined by the readers and editors of Guide to Florida. Less than 10 percent of Florida businesses receive this recognition each year, and the award reflects the dedication Encore brings to its residents and their families every day. Encore looks forward to celebrating this milestone with the entire community. Celebrating Grandparents Day National Grandparents Day falls on the first Sunday after Labor Day each year. First observed in 1978, the holiday was created to honor grandparents, celebrate the bond between generations, and encourage children to seek out the wisdom and love that grandparents offer. It is a day built on connection, gratitude, and the simple joy of spending time together. For many grandchildren, distance or circumstance can make that connection harder to keep. Encore

at Avalon Park welcomes the community to consider “adopting” a grandparent this season. Many residents at Encore would love a visit, a conversation, or a new friend to share stories with, and the community is always open to those who wish to build that connection. At Encore at Avalon Park, we welcome the community to visit and make a new friend. In celebration of Grandparent’s Day, Encore at Avalon Park will host an Alice in Wonderland themed Tea Party on Sunday, September 13th at 2 PM. The event will have whimsical art activities and photo ops to immerse the entire family in an Alice in Wonderland tea party. Whether curious like Alice or ready to join the Mad Hatter’s table, guests are encouraged to bring a grandparent, grandchild, or friend for an afternoon of tea, treats, and fun. This event is open to residents and the community. Tickets are required and available here. Follow us at @encoreatavalonpark to stay up to date with events happening at Encore.

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The Humble Crumb to Open October 2026 in the Marketplace at Avalon Park Food Hall The Marketplace at Avalon Park announced The Humble Crumb, an artisan sourdough micro-bakery, will open its first permanent location in the food hall in October 2026.

within the Hunters Creek community. Merali stated: “We grew into the community, and before we could realize it, there were sold-out weekends, back-toback events, a bread flavor list longer than we ever imagined possible, and incredible people who embraced us in ways we never expected.” Then, the opportunity to continue growing came around one of the key communities in our success story: Avalon Park. And choosing to be part of the Marketplace felt like the right next chapter for The Humble Crumb family. The Humble Crumb’s farmers’ market roots shaped the micro-bakery it is today. After exactly two years of markets, community events and festivals, the Humble Crumb team looks forward to bringing that same market-day warmth and connection to its first permanent home at the Marketplace at Avalon Park. The micro-bakery’s menu will showcase The Humble Crumb’s signature sourdough flavors, including the Classic Sourdough, Choco Chip, and Jalapeño Colby, alongside more than ten other regular offerings and rotating seasonal specials. The menu will also feature open-faced toasts and toppings, freshly squeezed orange juice, espresso, lattes, cappuccinos, and hot tea.

Family owned, The Humble Crumb, started with a need for real sourdough bread benefits: flour, water, salt, a very active wild yeast, and an idea that got a little out of hand. After years of learning, practicing, and refining the ancient craft of bread making, Merali Figueroa, Amy Rodriguez, and Jafet Sanchez felt confident enough to share the bread loaves with family. Family gatherings soon turned into conversations about taking the bread beyond the family kitchen; and this eventually led The Humble Crumb to its first farmers market

“We are incredibly grateful and excited to be able to bring our breads to a permanent location at the Marketplace at Avalon Park,” the team said. “Our promise remains the same: serve everyone with gratitude, kindness, consistency, and a humble heart that never forgets the journey in becoming The Humble Crumb of today.” For more information, follow The Humble Crumb on Instagram @OneHumbleCrumb for updates.

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By: The East Orlando Youth Advisory Board irritability. Member, Charlisse St. Hilaire Ways to help Fighting mental battles silently is incredibly One way to help a friend going through hard. From the outside, it may seem to people a tough time is to be there. Even though it that you’re perfectly fine, but when you get may not seem like much, your support is home and are alone, it’s a different story. meaningful. When possible, reach out to Being alone in these thoughts is dangerous them, offer a listening ear, and direct them as they build up in the quiet. Eventually, to a helpful resource. These resources may bottling up these feelings can cause one to include the suicide hotline, the counselor’s break down. office at your school, and even local therapists. It is important to encourage your friend to reach out to a trusted adult, as that may be the best course of action to figure out what to do next. For everyone experiencing all kinds of mental battles, remember that these feelings don’t mean you’re weak, and reaching out is a sign of strength. You are loved by everyone around you. You matter to the world, and these battles are only temporary; you will get through them. If you feel called to, reach out to the suicide hotline 9988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline to converse with a counselor Mental battles are a widespread occurrence about your struggles. This is a safe, private within society, which means the likelihood call between you and your counselor. of someone you know struggling with said battles is high. It should be a priority of ours At L.O.V.E. Our Youth, we believe no young to help these people, as even one little gesture person should have to face their struggles of yours can save or make a difference in their alone. Our work is rooted in creating spaces lives. There are various ways to spot signs of where teens feel seen, supported, and mental instability and ways to help people connected to people who care. Whether it’s with their mental states. through conversations, community, or access to trusted resources, we’re here to remind Signs you that your feelings matter and your life Signs can be subtle or strong depending has value. Reaching out is a brave step, and on the person. Strong signs include having you deserve support every step of the way. changes in their eating and sleeping habits, being less enthusiastic about things they If you’re looking for meaningful ways to uplift normally would be, giving away valued and support youth in our community, explore items, and taking dangerous risks. Subtle volunteer opportunities at loveouryouth. signs can include minor self-harm such as org/get-involved or connect with us on hair pulling, fatigue, trouble focusing, and Instagram @loveouryouth.

How Parents Can Prompt Success in the Classroom and Beyond

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From Pre-K to senior year, each new school modeling (“Watch me do this, then you try!”) semester comes with its own challenges and older students might find that approach considerations for parents. How much help frustrating or belittling. Instead, you might is too much? When do parents need to take offer checklists that they can implement a step back and let kids figure things out on themselves, or invite them to come up with their own? What’s the best way to encourage their own set of reminders. independence? • Think outside the box. Kids can use selfAt Quest Kids Academy, we tackle the same prompting to tackle a wide range of situations. questions on a daily basis. We work with For example, if they’re anxious about taking children with developmental disabilities, a test, they can break it down into steps by many of whom have special learning needs. first writing their name, then reading the However, the way they learn is no different instructions and finally checking their work. from other kids – and the strategies we use Or if they’re having a rough day, they can in the classroom can benefit any student, at use prompts – such as taking deep breaths or any age. identifying what emotion they’re feeling – to help manage their frustration. Teens can also One of those strategies is called “prompting,” use tools like phone reminders or a digital a behavioral teaching method that focuses on calendar to prompt themselves. providing the tools students need to reach the answer on their own. With prompting, When used effectively, prompting empowers kids can learn through repeated success, not learners to expand their toolkit of techniques trial and error – all while fully engaging with for navigating the world with confidence, the skill they’re learning. both in and beyond the classroom. Quest, Inc. is here to help with education, housing Here’s how to do it: and workforce opportunities. To learn more, • Use prompts strategically. Prompt your contact our team at www.questinc.org – or child before or during a task, not after: Give give us a call at 407.218.4300. them some reminders or strategies, let them give it a try, see where they get stuck, and nudge them gently in the right direction: “What sound does the letter C make?” or “Sound it out.” Give lots of hints at first, and then fewer and fewer as time goes on. Remember, the goal is to reach the point where they can succeed without any help. • Expect setbacks. Don’t be dismayed if your child makes several steps forward one day but seems to struggle the next – they might just be feeling tired, frustrated, or unfocused. Instead of pushing forward, back up a little to find the problem. As they build confidence (with plenty of encouragement) you can gradually phase back out to a lower level of Melissa Lopez is the Quest Kids Academy Principal at Quest, Inc., a local nonprofit organization that guidance. has been helping individuals with developmental • Adapt to your child’s independence level. disabilities experience a full life for over sixty While a young child might benefit from basic years.

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Fall Into Discovery: The Art of Preparing, Planning, and Creating Together

Fall in Florida may still feel like summer, but September brings a change we can all feel, the calendar starts filling up, school is back in session, and our community is getting ready for a new season of events and experiences. Fall is a season of preparation, but it is also a season of discovery. As we prepare for school, family activities, and community events, there are so many opportunities to learn, create, and connect together. At Creatively Influenced Learning, we believe learning happens everywhere, for ages 3 to 103. It can happen around the kitchen table, during a conversation, while planning an event, or while creating something together.

Creatively Influenced Learning offers free resources on YouTube designed to encourage children to listen, talk, read, create, and explore. - Scan the QR code in this month’s newsletter and follow us on YouTube! - K–5 Learning Resources: creativelyinfluencedlearning.com

LEARNING IS FOR AGES 3–103! And yes, adults belong in the learning conversation too! Maybe this fall is the season you finally learn that technology you’ve been avoiding. Maybe you want to create something for your organization, learn Canva, make better presentations, explore digital tools, or simply feel more confident using technology. Start with something that interests you, curiosity is a pretty good place to begin. Creatively Influenced offers technology and creative learning experiences designed to help adults build confidence, explore new tools, and turn ideas into something real. Adult Technology & Creative Learning:

LEARN, WHAT IF YOU PLANNED YOUR OWN EVENT? Imagine your family, friends, or neighborhood decided to have a special September event. What would you create? Maybe it would be a family game night, a neighborhood book gathering, a creative afternoon, a music and movement celebration, or simply a gettogether where everyone brings something to share. Now comes the fun part, how would you get people excited about it? Create an invitation! Give your event a name, choose a date, decide where it will happen, think about who you would invite, choose an image, and create a message that makes someone say, “That sounds like fun, I want to come!” You can sketch your idea on paper, or bring it to life digitally using a creative tool such as Canva.

Learning looks different for everyone, but the opportunity to learn belongs to all of us.

Try different pictures, experiment with fonts, move things around, change the words, and see what happens.

NOW IT’S YOUR TURN! As you look at the events happening around you this fall, choose one, attend it, bring someone with you, ask a question, start a conversation, and get inspired.

Don’t worry about making it perfect, you’re creating, making decisions, communicating an idea, and learning along the way. That’s what makes interactive learning so much fun, it doesn’t always feel like learning. Sometimes it simply feels like making something you want to make. MAKE IT A FAMILY CONVERSATION While you’re planning, ask everyone: - What would make this event fun? - Who should we invite? - What would we need? - How can we make everyone feel welcome? Let everyone contribute an idea, even the youngest person at the table. You might be surprised by what they come up with! When we create together, we listen, share ideas, make choices, solve problems, and discover new possibilities. STORYTIME AT AVALON Speaking of creating together, don’t forget about Storytime at Avalon! A story can be the beginning of so many wonderful conversations. After reading, ask your young reader, “What would you do?”, “What would happen if the story changed?”, or “What could we create from this story?” Maybe your child draws a new character, creates a different ending, or acts out a favorite part. There is no one right way to enjoy a story, and sometimes the best part happens after the book closes. KEEP THE DISCOVERY GOING! Looking for free learning resources for your K–5 learner?

Then ask yourself, “What could I create next?” Because preparing for an event isn’t just about putting something on the calendar, it’s about making room for connection, creativity, and discovery. SEE WHAT’S HAPPENING AT AVALON! Come connect, come create, come discover something new. Tammy Davis is a Learning Experience Designer, technology trainer, and literacy advocate who creates engaging learning experiences for ages 3 to 103. Creatively Influenced Learning™, empowering learners through creativity, technology, and lifelong learning.

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Leadership, Service, and Science Shape Orlando Senior’s Path to College As Dylan Novotny enters his senior year, he brings Florida, demonstrating his ability to perform complex lab together a decade-long record of service, leadership, protocols and follow industry standards. biomedical study, and real-world responsibility. With more than a year of dual enrollment college credits already complete, Dylan is building a strong foundation in Avalon Park and across Central Florida, showing how students can combine technical preparation with meaningful community service. A Foundation in Community Leadership Dylan has been a member of Scouting America since age six and has held several instructional and leadership roles, including Patrol Leader. He recently completed his Eagle Scout service project, The Game Box, and is awaiting his final Board of Review to earn the organization’s highest rank of Eagle Scout. His Scouting journey also included Northern Tier High Adventure, a demanding week-long wilderness expedition along the Canadian border navigating over 50 miles of remote waterways while portaging heavy canoes.

His interest in biomedical science and service has also shaped his five years of volunteer work with Our Legacy and Donate Life Florida, where he helps manage logistics for the annual Avalon Park Orlando Pinwheel Garden honoring Central Florida organ and tissue donors. He has also gained hands-on exposure to the field through a part-time job with Evolution Medical Technologies, a local biomedical implant company.

Looking Ahead to College As college applications open this fall, Dylan’s background “I learned a lot about makes him a strong candidate for competitive leadership discipline, stamina, and cohorts and undergraduate science and research programs. teamwork through those experiences, and I know “I feel really fortunate to have grown up in a community those lessons will stay that gives kids so many opportunities. I’d encourage kids and adults to get involved, volunteer, and take advantage with me.” of all the ways we can give back.” Dylan has carried that leadership mindset into Whether leading a student advisory meeting, collaborating his role as a founding in a research lab, or preparing for future opportunities, member and Chair of Dylan has shown how service, leadership, and preparation the East Orlando Youth can shape a meaningful path forward. Advisory Board, a youthled group organized by L.O.V.E. Our Youth, Inc. He helped create the group’s bylaws, leads board meetings, coordinates with peers, and works with local community organizers to support programs for youth. “Working with L.O.V.E. Our Youth and leading the Youth Advisory Board has opened the door to so many unique opportunities. One highlight was helping present our group’s vision to the Orlando Magic Youth Foundation, which awarded us a $10,000 microgrant to support teenled community spaces and programs.” Building a Future in Biomedical Science At Timber Creek High School, Dylan has completed the multi-year Project Lead the Way Biomedical Science sequence and will begin an independent Biomedical Innovation capstone project this fall. He has also earned the state-certified Biotechnician Assistant Credentialing Exam (BACE), issued by Biotility at the University of

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Congraulations on 10 Years in Business JK Creative

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WORK OUC Named the Nation’s Most Trusted Electric Utility by Escalent OUC—The Reliable One has been recognized as the No. 1 electric utility in the nation for customer trust, earning the highest Brand Trust score among all electric utilities evaluated in Escalent’s 2026 Cogent Syndicated Utility Trusted Brand & Customer Engagement™: Residential Study.

The Cogent Syndicated Utility Trusted Brand & Customer Engagement: Residential Study is conducted twice a year by Escalent, a market research and advisory firm specializing in the energy and utility sectors. Utilities earning the Most Trusted Brands designation do so by meeting one of several high-performance benchmarks: achieving a Brand Trust Index score in the top decile, “Being recognized as the most trusted electric utility in earning the top score within their segment, or scoring the nation is an extraordinary honor because it reflects the within 20 points of the segment’s highest benchmark confidence our customers place in us,” said Linda Ferrone, while still exceeding the industry average. OUC’s Chief Customer and Marketing Officer. “Trust is earned one interaction at a time – through reliable service, For more information about OUC’s commitment clear communication, and employees’ who are deeply to customers and our community, visit OUC.com/ committed to putting our customers first.” community. OUC received a Brand Trust Index score of 771 – the highest score of any electric utility nationwide – placing it among just 32 utilities recognized as a 2026 Most Trusted Brand. Escalent’s annual study evaluated 155 gas, electric and combination utilities across the country, measuring customer trust through key factors such as reliability, customer focus, ethics, communications, community support, and overall company reputation. Escalent found that even as trust across the utility industry has steadied amid broader economic pressures, the topperforming utilities continue to shine by strengthening customer relationships and demonstrating a clear commitment to advocating for their customers.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------About OUC—The Reliable One For more than 100 years, OUC—The Reliable One has provided exceptional value to its customers and community through the delivery of affordable, reliable and sustainable services and solutions. The utility provides electric, water, chilled water, lighting and solar services to nearly 300,000 customers in Orlando, St. Cloud and parts of unincorporated Orange and Osceola counties. As OUC prepares for the next century, it remains committed to advancing a cleaner, more resilient energy future while supporting the Central Florida community with conservation, sustainability and energy efficiency resources. Visit www.ouc.com to learn more.

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DINING

DINING From Avalon Park to Paris Pho Akaushi’s Big Year Keeps Getting Bigger If you have walked past Pho Akaushi lately, you have last bowl of pho, this is a good excuse to come back and probably noticed the new flag out front: “Voted Best see what is changing. Vietnamese Restaurant, Central Florida Favorites 2026.” It is not an exaggeration, and it is not even the whole story. Ask the team where this is headed, and they will not hesitate: Michelin. Not the star, at least not yet, but the more Inside, on the counter, sits a second honor: a glass plaque attainable Michelin-Recommended tier, which rewards naming Pho Akaushi the National Excellence Advisory consistently excellent food over exhaustive polish. It is a Board’s 2026 Best Eating Spot for Vietnamese French real goal in this city, as Orlando’s 2026 Michelin Guide cuisine, for a restaurant that started as a family project already lists six starred restaurants, 18 Bib Gourmands, between a chef and his sister, one raised in Paris, one and 43 Recommended spots. Since Michelin recognition raised on the flavors of Vietnam. comes down to unannounced inspector visits, the strategy is simple: keep the food excellent and get enough people It is a pairing that should not have to explain itself but talking that an inspector eventually walks through the does: banh mi and escargot on the same menu, quiches door. next to bobas, and a pho broth simmered for hours, finished, unexpectedly, with slow-flame-grilled wagyu That strategy is already playing out. On August 9, Pho beef that has no business working on a French-Vietnamese Akaushi hosted three French social media influencers, plate, and does anyway. The restaurant has quietly whose combined following tops 3.5 million, for a meal perfected that combination since it opened, and this year and a tour of Avalon Park as part of a growing effort the recognition caught up: the Orlando Sentinel’s Central to put the restaurant and the community in front of an Florida Favorites gave Pho Akaushi its Gold Award audience most local businesses never reach. for Favorite Vietnamese Restaurant for the second-year running, the NEAB followed with its national Best Eating None of it happens without the neighbors who have been Spot honor, and across the Atlantic, Pho Akaushi now has showing up all along. So take the win as an invitation: its own write-up in Le Petit Futé Florida, the French guide stop in, congratulate the team, and try the dish that has that sends travelers looking for this kind of place when been doing the talking, the wagyu-topped Pho Supreme, or the Le Emperor Steak banh mi for those in a sandwich they land in Orlando. mood, and taste the cuisine that has Central Florida, and That is a lot of attention for a restaurant that has already now France, paying attention. made itself a fixture of Avalon Park and the next chapter is already underway. Pho Akaushi has also started an Pho Akaushi is located at 3891 Avalon Park E Blvd. Call improvement project and remodel; an investment regulars (321) 270-8888, visit pho-akaushi.com, or follow will start to notice soon. If it has been a while since your @pho_akaushi_orlando.

Coming together to create a healthy community

LIVE WELL

ARTS & CULTURE CORNER Staying Creative This Fall With the ACC The Avalon Park Arts & Culture Center continues to bring creativity, connection, and culture to the heart of Downtown Avalon Park. Whether you are looking for a new class to try, an exhibition to explore, or a way to give back, there is always something happening at the ACC. Here is a look at what is coming up. Upcoming Exhibition: One Rule from September 21 through October 31 The ACC’s next exhibition, One Rule, opens on September 21 and runs through October 31. This show carries a simple premise: there are no rules except one. Create something. One Rule encourages artists of all backgrounds and skill levels to experiment, play, and push beyond their usual boundaries. The exhibition welcomes work in any medium, any size, and any style. The only requirement is that the artist took a creative risk in making it.

Upcoming Classes and Workshops The ACC welcomes new art classes this September. Intro to Cartooning with Dennis Draws Dennis Draws brings Intro to Cartooning to the ACC on Saturday, September 5th, from 12:00 to 2:00 PM. Participants will learn to create simple, expressive characters and explore the fundamentals of cartooning through warm-up exercises, a look at cartoon history, and step-by-step instruction on drawing a simple cartoon. Dennis brings ten years of experience and Disney training to the classroom. The class costs $35 per person. You can register here.

Styrene Printmaking Workshop The ACC in Central Florida Printmakers is hosting a Styrene Printmaking Workshop on Saturday, September 12th, from 1:00 to 3:00 PM. Participants will learn to etch a design into a piece of foam with a pencil, then ink the foam to create a print. No carving tools are required, Whether you are a seasoned artist exploring a new making this a welcoming, nontoxic introduction to direction or someone picking up materials for the first printmaking for beginners. The class costs $45 per time, One Rule invites you to submit work that reflects person, and you can register here. curiosity over perfection and process over polish. Volunteer with the ACC Application and drop-off details will be shared on We are always looking for volunteers. Currently, we the ACC event page and social media. Follow @ are looking for marketing, events, and gallery shifts. AvalonParkArts for announcements as the exhibition Volunteers are required to go through orientation before date approaches. a volunteer shift. Please sign up through our volunteer interest form to become a volunteer for the ACC.

ART CORNER

COMMUNITY CORNER

The Street That Keeps Bringing Me Back

If you had told me 15 years ago that one street would become the I’ve experienced it as a mother. I’ve watched my children grow backdrop to so many chapters of my life, I probably would have here. I’ve built relationships here. I’ve found opportunities here. laughed. I’ve experienced the community spaces, events, businesses, schools, parks, and people who have made this place feel like more than an For me, it was Avalon Park Boulevard. address. Fifteen years ago, I moved to Avalon Park, and this boulevard And now, after getting to know Beat and learning more about quickly became more than a road I traveled. It became a thread the vision behind Avalon Park, I began to understand why this running through some of the most important chapters of my life. community has always meant so much to me. The Pottery Place was our family and friends’ first introduction to Avalon Park at my first daughter’s 4th birthday party, followed by the YMCA, which became the beginning of my family’s journey toward health and wellness. Years later, after having my youngest daughter, I found myself at Avalon Dance Studio, where I joined Bombshell Dance Fitness and danced my way through the postpartum season of my life.

That understanding made me realize that the things I had experienced over the years were never really separate moments. They were connected.

I see it through the eyes of a teacher.

And perhaps the most meaningful realization is that sometimes, you don’t have to ask for a seat at the table when your experiences have already shown you why you belong there.

The birthday parties, the YMCA, the dance studio, raising my children, unexpected opportunities, my experience in communications, and now my experience as a teacher all taught me something about what it means to build a community where Years later, while dropping my daughter off at that same location, people can grow, connect, and feel that they belong. near where the old Kids R Kids once stood, right here along Avalon Park Boulevard, I met Candace Campos, Channel 6 News’ weather That’s not just something I read. anchor, who was filming a segment near the lake about Avalon Park. I made the bold decision to answer her question with a That’s something I’ve lived. question of my own. That unexpected exchange eventually led to an opportunity with Channel 6 News. I’ve lived it as a parent who wanted her children to grow up connected to their community. I’ve lived it as someone who has At the time, I didn’t recognize the pattern. spent years communicating, learning, teaching, and growing alongside the people and places around me. And I’ve lived it as I only knew that I kept finding myself on the same road, raising my someone who has spent 15 years watching Avalon Park evolve children, pursuing my passions, taking chances, and discovering while becoming part of my own story. opportunities I never could have planned. Maybe that’s why I keep finding my way back to Avalon Park Now, after 15 years, my oldest is a high school senior, and I’ve Boulevard. earned my BA in Communications and pursued my master’s degree in Human Resource Management. I’m looking at that same Not because I was looking for an opportunity, but because I was boulevard through a different lens. already part of the story.

I see how much a child’s environment matters. I see the importance of giving children places where they feel safe, seen, and connected. I see that learning doesn’t stop when a child walks out of a classroom. The question is simply: What could happen if the person telling The community becomes part of the classroom, too. the community’s story is someone who has actually lived it? And that has changed the way I see Avalon Park. It’s also what made meeting Beat Kähli, founder and CEO of Avalon Park Group, feel significant. When we met, I didn’t yet understand that his vision had helped shape the community I had already spent 15 years experiencing. Learning more about Avalon Park Group’s mission, to change the way people live, learn, work, and play by creating healthy, sustainable communities, gave language to something I had experienced long before I understood it. Suddenly, the boulevard that had quietly carried me through so many chapters of my life felt like something more. It felt like a full-circle moment. The Community That Became Part of My Story Meeting Beat gave me an opportunity to step back and understand something I had been feeling for years. For the past 15 years, I haven’t simply lived in Avalon Park. I’ve experienced it. Submitted By Resident: Nicole Dorsainvil

COMMUNITY

Business Directory BANKING Fairwinds Credit Union 12800 Tanja King Blvd. 407-515-3054 Fairwinds.org Trustco Bank 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 101 407-380-2264 TrustcoBank.com

DINING A-AKI Sushi & Steakhouse 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 100 (407) 282-8488 aakiavalon.com Almafi 12001 Avalon Lake Drive, Ste. A almafiavalonpark.com Avalon Pockets 3564 Avalon Park E Blvd. #2 Avalon-Pockets.com Bamboo Wok 3464 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 105 407-282-9399 Bowigens Beer Co. Marketplace, Ste. 120 3801 Avalon Park East Blvd. bowigens.com Cafe Coqui 3819 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-459-6762 cafecoquiorlando.com Chabuca Avalon Park 12001 Avalon Lake Drice, Ste. H chabucacuisine.com Cheese To Share Marketplace, Ste. 150 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. facebook.com/cheesetoshare/ Ferratti’s Artisan Pizza and Pasta Marketplace 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Mangia Avalon Park 3831 Avalon Park E Blvd. mangiavalonpark.com Marketplace At Avalon Park 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. (407) 730-3515 MarketplaceAtAvalonPark.com Nuno’s Cafe 12001 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. E 407930-3080 nunoscafe.com Oh So Sweet Avalon Marketplace 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Pepe’s Cantina Express 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 100 pepescantina.com Pesaro’s Pizzeria & Ristorante 3464 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 108 407-286-5968 pesarosavalonpark.com Pizza Hut 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 102 407-282-4999 pizzahut.com Pho Akaushi 3891 Avalon Park E Blvd. 321-270-8888 Restō Argentinian Kitchen Marketplace 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd.

restourbankitchen.com Satori Sushi and Snow Ice Marketplace 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. satorisushisnowice@gmail.com South Philly Steaks 12001 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. B 407988-3400 southphillysteaksorlando.com Subway 3548 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 2 407-382-6218 subway.com The Bakery Colombian Cafe 13001 Founder’s Sq Dr. Ste. 100 BakeryColombianCafe.com The Blackhawk Social Club 12001 Avalon Lake Drive, Ste. F 321-247-5009 blackhawksocialclub.com

407-658-0103 elitedentistry.com Ellie Mental Health 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 301 elliementalhealth.com F45 Training 12001 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. C 407-454-6323 f45training.com/avalonpark/ home Inara Medicine 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste 200 407-900-9770 inaramedicine.com Mindscope Clinic 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd, Ste 203 321-340-3038 mindscopeclinic.com

Yumfinity / StreetNOMS Marketplace 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd.

Morenos’s Medical Centers 13000 Avalon Lake Dr, Ste 100 407-7852030 morenosmedicalcenters.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

NeuroRestorative 3701 Avalon Park W Blvd.Ste. 100 321-354-0023 neurorestorative.com

AdventHealth Family & Internal Medicine at Avalon Park 3701 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 205 407-303-6285 AdventHealth.com

Orlando Counseling Specialists Nancy Johnson, MA, LMHC 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 2021 321-430-8671

AMP Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery 3861 Avalon Park E Blvd.

Orlando Health Physician Associates 3464 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-635-3434

A New Path Counseling Tanja Alvarado 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 2021 407-902-9250 anewpathcounsel.com Avalon Park Eye Care 12001 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. J 407-567-9955 avalonparkeyecare.com Avalon Park Gym & Wellness Center 12001 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. M-P 407-988-3884 avalonparkgym.com Avalon Family Vet 3520 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 3 407-275-3430 avalonfamilyvet.com Avalon Woman’s Health Center 3718 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-453-2072 womanshealthcenters.com/avalon-park BellaSmiles Orthodontics 12001 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. K 407.680-3197 bellasmilesortho.com CVS Pharmacy 13000 Tanja King Blvd. 407-273-7618 cvs.com Delphini Solutions Psychology Elaine D. Kring, Ph.D., LMHC, NCC 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 2028 321-947-8170 delphini-solutions-psychology. square.site/ Elite Dentistry 13000 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. 201

Paving the Way Foundation 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd, Ste 230 pavingthewayfoundation.org Sage Dental of Avalon Park 12990 Tanja King Blvd. 407-499-8647 mysagedental.com Stone Crossing Dental Care 3502 Avalon Park W Blvd. 407-374-2480 dentalcareatavalonpark.com Sunshine Ankle & Foot Experts 3701 Avalon Park W Blvd. Ste. 225 (407) 863-3655 sunshineankleandfoot.com Therapy Essentials Inc. 12930 Tanja King Blvd. 407-249-3344 tetherapy.com The Skin Attic 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 300 theskinattic.com Total Life Counseling 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 210 407-447-7600 totallifecounseling.com/east-orlando

LEARNING All-Star Dance Company 12001 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. D 407-278-9329 allstardancecompany.com Avalon Driving School 3801 Avalon Park East Blvd. 2nd floor, Ste. 530 www.avalondriving.com

Avalon Elementary School 13500 Tanja King Blvd. 407-207-3825 avalones.ocps.net Avalon Middle School 13914 Mailer Blvd. 407-207-7839 avalonmiddle.ocps.net Avalon Park Kids R Kids 12881 Tanja King Blvd. 407-306-9035 kidsrkidsorlando.com Avalon School of Music 12946 Tanja King Blvd. 407-770-0323 avalonschoolofmusic.com Championship Martial Arts 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 104 407-275-1700 championshipma.com Creative World School 3625 Avalon Park W Blvd. 407-275-0000 creativeworldschool.com Engenius Learning of Avalon Park 3714 Avalon Park E Blvd 844-564-3648 engeniuslearning.com Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Orlando 3873 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-990-2907 gjjorlando.com International Home Education Inc. 12001 Avalon Lake Drive, Ste E1 407-205-8445 inthomeeducation.com Orange Technical College 2201 South Crown Hill Blvd. 407-622-2900 orangetechcollege.net Pinecrest Academy 13993 Mailer Blvd. 407-432-5441 pinecrestavalonk5.com Primrose School 13461 Tanja King Blvd. 407-737-1500 primroseavalonpark.com Simply Speaking 3564 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-737-2023 simplyspeakingcentralflorida.com Stone Lakes Elementary 15200 Stoneybrook Blvd. 407-207-7793 stonelakeses.ocps.net Timber Creek High School 1001 Avalon Park Blvd. 321-235-7800 tchs.ocps.net

SCAN FOR ONLINE DIRECTORY

COMMUNITY LIVING Avalon Park Property Owners Association 13401 Tanja King Blvd. 407-249-9395 avalonmanager@lelandmanagement.com AvalonParkPOA.com Encore at Avalon Park Assisted Living and Memory Care 13798 Cygnus Dr. 407-270-7500 EncoreAtAvalonPark.com Millenium Realty Group Inc 4031 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-277-1400 milleniumrealtygroup.com

407-914-6583 avalonfuneralservices.com Avalon Park Group 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 400 407-658-6565 avalonparkgroup.com Avalon Park Cleaners 3588 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. B201A 407-277-3335 AvalonParkCleaners.com Cage Fitness 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 201 877-650-2243 cagefitness.com

Integrity International Brokers 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 212 407-408-0176 Int-Brokers.com Just Blade Barbershop 3726 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-930-6636 Kossina Creative Photography 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 220 407-310-3447 KossinaCreative.com Let’s Roof 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 350 letsroofusa.com

Parkside at Avalon Park 13300 Tanja King Blvd. Ste. 122 407-866-1015 ParksideAtAvalonPark.com

Captivea USA 4031 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-982-7007 captivea.com

Level Up Automation 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 310 LevelUpAutomationFlorida.com

RC Realty Group 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 2070 407-309-9155

Central Nails Avalon Park 3548 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 1 407-275-2300

RE/MAX Innovation 3742 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-281-1053

Cognitive Performance Group 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 205 407-282-4433 cpg-online.com

Mad Barbers Avalon Park 3564 Avalon Park E Blvd, Ste. 3 407-270-8286 themadbarbers.org

Selective Realty Group 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd, Ste. 200 407-627-1727 SelectiveRealtyGroup.com Stanley Martin Homes 12741 Avalon Lake Drive 407-442-9169

Complete Pools 3588 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-704-1285 complete-pools.com

The Flats at Avalon Park 12001 Avalon Lake Drive, Ste . L 407-273-4337 theflatsatavalonpark.com

CPA Solutions 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 350A 407-650-9088 mycpasolutions.com

Top Florida Homes 12950 Tanja King Blvd. 321-287-3913 TopFloridaHomes.com

DBSS, Inc. 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 2072 321-251-6006 dbssinc.com

NON-PROFIT

Definitive Beauty Med & Wellness Spa 3720 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 301 407-319-5378

Avalon Park Foundation 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 400 407-658-6565 AvalonParkFoundation.org Avalon Park Arts & Culture Center (APGF) 13013 Founder’s Square Dr. Goodwill Donation Xpress 3520 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 4-5 407-857-0659 goodwillcfl.org L.O.V.E. Our Youth, Inc. 13013 Founder’s Square Drive 321-252-8002 loveouryouth.org Non-Profit Enthusiast 13000 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. 207 (833) 959-7446 nonprofitenthusiast.com We the Women Movement 3280 Avalon Park East Blvd, Ste. 201 407-694-7641 wethewomanmovement.com

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Adaptive Consulting Engineers 12922 Tanja King Blvd. 407-506-5593 adaptivece.com

Diana Gonzalez, LLC 13000 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. 302 Dolce E Luce Beauty Salon 12926 Tanja King Blvd. 407-451-7828 info@dolceelucesalon.com EA Insurance 12001 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. I eainsurances.com Eye Create Her 3855 Avalon Park E Blvd eyecreateher.com Fairway Independent Mortgage Ashley Thalmueller 12938 Tanja King Blvd. 407-469-5052 ashleythalmuellermortgage.com Florida Merchant Services 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 206 888-490-7480 floridamerchant1.com Fluttering Shutters Photography 3730 Avalon Park E Blvd 321-278-8408 flutteringshuttersphotography. com

McQuantum Funding 13000 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. 303 mcquantumfunding.com Milton Figueroa Law, PA 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd, Ste. 303 (407) 745-0893 mjfpa.com Nails Spa Avalon Park 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste.105 407-249-4060 NT Avalon 12001 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. L NY Barber Shop II 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 103 407-412-6900 Orlando Divorce Planning 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 350 407-707-9020 OrlandoDivorcePlanning.com Patricia P. Barber, M.S. 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 2026 407-767-8854 patriciapbarber.com

Vanguard Leadership Institute 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 208 407-227-1384 Vision Development & Management 12954 Tanja King Blvd. visiondandm.com The White Agency, Inc. 12954 Tanja King Blvd. 407-401-7095 thewhiteagencyinc.com Yard 3 Technologies 3662 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 2024 877-823-0342 yard3.com 100 Units 12934 Tanja King Blvd. 321-388-4394 100units.com 4K Wellness 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 310 4kwellness.com

SHOPPING & ENTERTAINMENT Avalon General Store 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. AvalonGeneral.com Avalon Liquor 3588 Avalon Park Blvd. Ste. 3 407-250-4847 Avalon Park Arts & Culture Center 13013 Founders Square Dr. AvalonArtsCenter.com Avalon Park Jewelers 3710 Avalon Park E Blvd. 321-235-5553 avalonparkjewelers.com Freehand Goods 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 145 freehandgoods.com

Pinoy Hair Studio Salon 12934 Tanja King Blvd (609) 665-6499 pinoyhairstudiosalon.com

Publix 3400 Avalon Park E Blvd. (407) 277-1043 publix.com

Polo Floors & Polo Palm Paint 3742 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-988-3361 polohomeimprovement.com

The Flowers Bouquet AP 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 115 407-371-0860 flowersbouquetandmorefl.com

Quantified Design Solutions 13000 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. 205 quantifieddesign.com

Theory Bridal House 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 120 407-490-5118 theorybridalhouse.com

Raymond James 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 350B 407-278-5051 OrlandoAdvisors.com Rosenthal Meyer PLLC 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 300 407-504-9725 RosenthalMeyer.com Safe Harbor Counseling & Advocacy 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 302 safeharborfl.com Servpro 13000 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. 208

Avalon Insurance Services 13013 Michael Callin Alley 407-308-0962 avaloninsuranceservices.com

Groom Grub Belly Rub 3702 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-277-7387 groomgrub.com

Solymar Travel 13001 Founder’s Sq. Ste. 150 407-203-5000 SolymarTravels.com

Avalon Mail Center 3564 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. B204 407-482-0662 AvalonMailCenter.com

Ingenium Staffing 13000 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. 301

The Apartment King 12934 Tanja King Blvd. 321-275-5464 theaptking.com

Avalon Park Funeral and Cremation Services 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 330

The Ruggieri Law Firm, P.A. 13000 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. 305 407-395-4766 ruggierilawfirm.com

Partner Claim Services 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd, Ste 206 partnerclaims.com

Goosehead Insurance 3680 Avalon Park E Blvd, Ste 205

In Style Hair, Nails & Day Spa 3843 Avalon Park E Blvd. 407-736-1278 instylehairorlando.com

the5thfloor.com/orlando

The 5th Floor Orlando 3801 Avalon Park E Blvd. Ste. 200 407-730-3493

SPIRITUAL CENTERS Avalon Church 13460 Tanja King Blvd. 407-275-5499 AvalonChurch.org CrossLife Church East 13000 Avalon Lake Dr. Ste. 301 CrossLifeEast.com

COMMUNITY

Sandwiched Between Kids and Parents, Florida’s Caregivers Struggle to Get By By Derrick Chubbs High temperatures and higher AC costs. Climbing prices at the grocery store. The competing needs of kids, grandkids, and aging parents. Florida families are feeling the financial heat this summer, and the pressure is highest on the “sandwich generation” – the adults in their 40s, 50s and 60s who are supporting both older and younger relatives. That pressure forces families to make difficult decisions – and across Second Harvest Food Bank’s network of feeding partners, I’ve seen Central Floridians come to us in search of a lifeline. People have told me, “I don’t know what we’d have done without Second Harvest.” To me, that’s not something to be proud of. It’s a painful reality. As many as one in four Americans provide care for an adult and almost a third of them are also raising children, according to a 2025 AARP report. Just imagine trying to stretch one paycheck across three generations – covering groceries, clothing, school supplies, medications, utilities, rent and more, with little or no money left over to save for your own retirement.

Summer is a difficult time for the “sandwich generation,” especially when it comes to food insecurity. Electricity bills can double or triple in the hottest months, cutting into a limited budget. And parents who already struggle to put food on the table for a packed household may find it even harder when kids are home from school, without access to free or reduced lunch and breakfast. With more mouths to feed, families have to make tough compromises. The food they can afford isn’t always the food that will keep them healthy – and that can take a heavy toll on older adults, who are at a higher risk of illnesses like hypertension, diabetes and heart disease. Family members may also forgo essentials like healthcare: Grandma might take a half dose of her medication to make it last twice as long or put off going to the doctor until it’s a last resort.

At Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, we and our network of feeding partners are seeing the impact of food insecurity in real time. Seniors and older adults who “did everything right” – worked, saved, and tried to plan ahead – are finding themselves in line at the local food pantry because they simply don’t have enough to make For low-income families, pooling resources can be ends meet. one of the only ways to stay afloat. A 2025 report from the National Association of REALTORS® This summer, don’t turn a blind eye to hunger noted an increase in multigenerational home in your community. This is a crisis we can solve buying, especially among Gen X and Boomer together – and if you or someone you know demographics. In theory, it’s an effective stopgap: needs help putting food on the table, Second When Grandma moves into the spare bedroom to Harvest’s team is here to help. To learn more, visit save on rent and utility costs, she might also be FeedHopeNow.org. able to babysit the kids while parents are at work. While combining households can reduce some financial pressures, it also exacerbates others. Benefits like SNAP (the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program, formerly called food stamps) are calculated in part based on an individual’s household expenses and living arrangements, and any changes can complicate eligibility. If Grandma no longer contributes toward rent or utilities while living with her adult children, the amount of SNAP benefits she qualifies for will also decrease, and her family will have to shoulder the additional food cost. Derrick Chubbs is President and CEO of Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida (SHFBCF). As Multigenerational housing isn’t a true solution the region’s largest emergency food provider, Second – it’s a symptom of underlying problems. When Harvest secures and distributes enough food for 300,000 just one adult in the household loses their job or meals a day to more than 800 local nonprofit feeding faces an unexpected crisis, everyone in the family partners across a seven-county service area. By also is impacted. And when a caregiver’s savings run investing in job training programs and advocating for dry, they and their dependents have no safety net access to nutritious foods, SHFBCF is leaning into the to fall back on. root causes of hunger to help transform lives.

COMMUNITY

Total Wine & More Opens Newest Orlando Store in Alafaya (Waterford Lakes Shopping Center) WHAT: Total Wine & More, the nation’s The new store adds more than 30 jobs largest independent retailer of wine, spirits locally, with every team member trained and beer, is opening its newest Orlando to deliver expert service. location in Alafaya on Thursday, September 3. Located within the Waterford Lakes Hours of Operation: Town Center (across from Best Buy), the • Sunday – Thursday: 9am – 10pm new store marks the retailer’s 46thlocation • Friday – Saturday: 9am – 11pm in Florida and 5th store in Orlando. WHEN: Grand Opening is Thursday, 9/3 The over 23,000-square-foot store will carry a selection of more than 8,000 wines, WHERE: Waterford Lakes Town Center 4,500 distilled spirits, and 2,500 beers, plus 721 North Alafaya Trail a robust lineup of non-alcoholic and THC- Orlando FL, 32828 infused beverage options. It gives local MORE: Visit Total Wine & More’s website shoppers a convenient new place to shop HERE to learn more about product a vast assortment of products at the lowest offerings and services. prices. About Total Wine & More Shoppers can also enjoy: Total Wine & More is America’s largest • A wide assortment of local-to-Florida independent retailer of fine wine, spirits, and brands, including Ivanhoe Park, Ravenous beer, with over 297 stores in 30 states and the Pig, & Lakeridge District of Columbia. Founded in 1991, the • Wine and spirits tasting stations company is committed to offering the industry’s • “The Brewery District” beer tasting best in price, selection, and service. Total Wine station and cold case & More’s mission is to connect people through • Walk-in humidor with more than 50 joyful experiences by delivering unmatched premium cigar brands value and knowledge to every customer. For • In-store classroom for customer classes more information, visit https://www.totalwine. and events featuring winemakers, distillers, com. and brewers from around the world

COMMUNITY

Kiwanis of Avalon Park Updates Kiwanis of Avalon Park has kicked off the new summer to deliver and assemble many beds to the school year with their Kiwanis reading program kids. in most of the local schools in the area. Their service clubs in all the local schools are starting up including the new K-Kids club at Pinecrest Academy. They will also awarding teacher of the month awards in all of the partner schools. Club of the Year The club also had the honor of receiving the 202425 Florida District Club of the Year Award at their annual District Convention the first weekend of August. It is quite and honor to be number one of 200 some Kiwanis clubs around the state. We thank our members, or partner schools and our partner businesses for helping make this possible. This is second time the club received this award.

Aktion Club The Kiwanis club continues to work with adults with disabilities at Quest Village as well as the Aktion Club at Primrose Center where we presented their charter for being a new Aktion Club. These special people are also making a difference in their communities by doing service projects each month for others.

Sleep in Heavenly Peace Bed Builds The club continued its efforts provide beds for kids in central Florida who do not have a bed to sleep in. The club went out on multiple builds over the