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KEEPING THE NEWS LOCAL & THE COMMUNITY CONNECTED.

JANUARY 2026

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COMMUNITY UPDATES

VOLUME 7 EDITION 1

A New Year of Growth, Health, and Community in Avalon Park Orlando As the calendar turns to a new year, Avalon Park Orlando continues to grow in ways that strengthen both community connection and everyday quality of life. January brings a mix of exciting announcements, new neighborhood destinations, and meaningful events that reflect the spirit of Avalon Park—where wellness, local business, and coming together as neighbors remain at the heart of the community.

Health education is also front and center with the Sun Safe Lunch and Learn, hosted at Encore at Avalon Park in partnership with Impact Melanoma. This complimentary event includes lunch and provides important information on skin cancer prevention on January 20th, 110:301:30 pm. RSVP is required to marketing@avalonparkgroup.com.

One of the most significant milestones is the rebrand of the East Orlando Gym to the Avalon Park Gym. This change represents more than a new name; it reflects a renewed commitment to serving the health and wellness needs of the entire Avalon Park community. With expanded programming, personal training options, and pop-up fitness classes, the Avalon Park Gym is focused on creating an inclusive space where residents of all ages and fitness levels can build healthy habits together. New members will receive a waived joiner fee in the month of January, so make sure to read the article with full class schedule on pages 10-11. Downtown Avalon Park is also welcoming new culinary experiences. Chabuca Peruvian Resta, Amalfi, and Black Hawk are preparing to open their doors, adding to the diverse mix of locally owned restaurants that make Avalon Park a destination for dining and gathering. These openings continue to strengthen the neighborhood feel of Downtown, where supporting local businesses remains central to community life.

Also, at Encore at Avalon Park, community favorites like Big Bingo, hosted by the Jetsetters on the 4th Sunday of each month at 3 pm continue to bring community together for fun, laughter, and connection, reinforcing the January’s calendar is filled with events that importance of intergenerational engagement bring neighbors together for causes that matter. within Avalon Park. The 12th Annual Fire in the Park Chili Cook-Off to Cure returns on Friday, January 24th, from 10 From fitness and food to education and giving a.m. to 4 p.m., combining friendly competition, back, Avalon Park Orlando begins the year great food, and a shared mission to support with momentum and purpose—proof that cancer-related causes. This long-standing event community is built not just through places, but through shared experiences that bring continues to be a highlight of the season. neighbors together.

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Coffee with Beat - Happy New Year! Exactly 30 years ago, on Avalon Park a complete community. From December 30, 1995, I was Encore, our assisted living and memory reading the front page care community that has been voted Best of the Orlando Sentinel Assisted Living Community in Orlando, to business section about the Marketplace, our popular food hall, to a young man who was The 5th Floor, our vibrant co-working space. preparing to build a They include the Avalon Park Sun, the very new town from scratch newspaper you are reading now, and the along the banks of the East Orlando Gym, which as of January 2026 Econlockhatchee River will carry a new name: Avalon Park Gym. in East Orange County. With a name change often come questions. I was that young man. Has the gym been sold? Is management changing? I had just arrived from Switzerland to marry Jill, who was born in Detroit and living in The answer is simple. No. Fort Lauderdale at the time, and I was ready to build a town where people could truly Ownership and management remain the live, learn, work, and play. That town became same. What you will see is APG more proudly Avalon Park. The rest, as they say, is history placing its name behind the amenities and and a journey that now spans three decades. activities we own, operate, and believe in. It is a reflection of who we are and the Over those 30 years, Avalon Park Group, also responsibility we take in building and known as APG, has been involved in projects sustaining community. across Florida, Switzerland, and around the world. Yet our heart, and our headquarters, If you ever have questions about APG, please remains right here at 3801 Avalon Park East stop by and say hello when you see me, quite Boulevard, in the middle of Downtown often during my lunch break, on the rowing Avalon Park Orlando. machine at Avalon Park Gym. Many people know APG as a developer, and Happy New Year. while that is not incorrect, it does not fully describe who we are. We are very different from a conventional real estate developer. Our mission, as stated on our website, is “to change the way the world lives, learns, works, and plays through creating healthy, sustainable communities and every aspect thereof.” Those last words, every aspect thereof, are especially important to us. They are reflected in the many APG-owned and operated amenities that help make

*Some content in this publication is generated using AI.

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From the Desk of Commissioner

Maribel Gomez Cordero Happy New Year!

and participation from various public and private community organizations. Guests can enjoy complimentary food, beverages, and live music, making it a festive experience for all. This familyfriendly gathering is a fantastic opportunity for children and families in our District to celebrate this cherished tradition. Kids will not only receive gifts but also get to meet the Three Kings and enjoy the festive outdoor setting.

January opens the door to a new year, inviting us to look back on what we’ve learned while setting our sights on what lies ahead. It is also a time to remember and celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose commitment to justice and equality continues to inspire meaningful change. Against the stillness of winter, January encourages thoughtful reflection, intentional planning, and the courage to begin As always, if you have any questions building a more positive and or concerns, or if you would like to receive my newsletter, you can hopeful future. email me at district4@ocfl.net or call I’m excited to announce my my office at 407-836-5881. You can upcoming event celebrating the also meet me in person on the first annual Three Kings’ Day tradition. Wednesdays of the month at the Join us on Saturday, January 3rd, East Orange Community Center 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Town Park (12050 E Colonial Dr) or on the in Avalon Park (3651 Avalon Park Third Wednesdays of the month Cir). My time at both locations is E Blvd, Orlando, FL 32828). The at the Meadow Woods Recreation from 10am to 12pm. Thank you event will include a toy giveaway Center (1751 Rhode Island Woods again and happy new year!

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2025 Real Estate Market Review Average Sale Prices Comparison • Sale prices in 2024 were relatively stable, generally hovering in the high-$400,000 range. • Monthly fluctuations were modest. In contrast, 2025 experienced greater price volatility. Several months reached or exceeded $500,000. While prices remained strong overall, the wider month-to-month swings indicate a more volatile market.

Number of Listings and Number of Homes Sold Comparison • There was a substantial increase in the number of listings in 2025 when compared with 2024. • There was 6% reduction in the number of sales in 2025 (34 less homes sold) when compared with 2024

Days to Sell Comparison • Homes sold relatively quickly, with most months falling between 25 and 45 days, with an average of 37 days, which indicates a seller-friendly or balanced market, where demand kept listings moving. In contrast to 2025, the average days to sell increased to 52 days, often ranging from 50 to 70 days. • This suggests buyer resistance to higher prices, affordability challenges, or a cooling in buyer urgency despite strong valuation levels.

LOOKING FORWARD TO 2026 The Florida Realtors Association forecasts a 4% price growth for Orlando during 2026. Orlando and Central Florida tend to have faster population and job growth than many U.S. metro areas. Mortgage rates affect the affordability of homes for many buyers. If we see the Feds lowering interest rates, mortgage rates fall in 2026, and a rise in consumer confidence, we can expect faster price gains and tighter inventory. The 32828 zip code is one of the 7th hottest real estate markets in Central Florida. Zip 32828 (Avalon Park / Alafaya) shows a $460K median and relatively high months-of-supply (7+ months in some snapshots), meaning it’s a softer, more negotiable submarket vs. constricted suburbs like Winter Park or Lake Nona. That makes 32828 a reasonable place for buyers seeking to negotiate the price of a home. Sources: Florida Association of Realtors, Orlando Regional Realtors Association, NAR, and Zillow.

John Alexandrou - Broker/Owner since 2003 | Avalon Realty Group: 3925 Peppervine Dr., Orlando, FL 32828 407-312-3928 | AvalonRealty@gmail.com

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Life in Motion at Encore at Avalon Park

An Active, Connected Community for Residents and Neighbors Alike At Encore at Avalon Park Assisted Living and Memory Care, life is meant to be lived fully, joyfully, and together. Each month, the community comes alive with opportunities for residents to stay active, creative, social, and engaged—and January’s 3rd Floor activity calendar is a wonderful example of what makes Encore such a vibrant place to call home.

Whether you are exploring residency options, looking for volunteer opportunities, or interested in joining an upcoming activity, Encore at Avalon Park welcomes you to experience what an active, connected community truly looks like.

From morning walking clubs and fitness classes to music, art, and social gatherings, there is something happening every day. Residents enjoy activities such as bingo, trivia games, watercolor workshops, crafting sessions, singalongs, and themed social hours that encourage laughter and connection. Special events like armchair travel experiences, movie afternoons, live piano performances, and creative art projects bring variety and excitement while supporting overall wellness. Faith-based programming, reflection groups, and outdoor courtyard time offer moments of peace and renewal, while interactive experiences like tea socials, cooking demonstrations, and themed lunches add a sense of celebration to everyday life. These thoughtfully planned activities support both physical and cognitive health, while most importantly fostering friendships and a true sense of belonging. Encore at Avalon Park is also deeply connected to the surrounding community. Neighbors, families, and volunteers are encouraged to take part—whether by leading an activity, sharing a talent, volunteering time, or simply stopping by to connect. Community involvement adds richness to daily life at Encore and strengthens the bonds between generations. For those considering assisted living or memory care, Encore offers more than support—it offers a lifestyle. For community members, it is a place to engage, give back, and be part of something meaningful.

To learn more about life at Encore at Avalon Park or to get involved, visit the community or reach out to the Encore team at 407-270-7500 to discover how you can be part of this vibrant and welcoming place.

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East Orlando Gym Rebrands to Avalon Park Gym Avalon Park Gym Launches as Part of Avalon Park Group’s Community Wellness Vision

and where healthy living is accessible to everyone.” Avalon Park Gym remains open to all and is not limited to Avalon Park residents. Members and guests from across East Orlando and beyond are encouraged to participate in a welcoming environment designed to support every stage of a wellness Avalon Park Group is pleased to announce journey. that the East Orlando Gym has officially rebranded as Avalon Park Gym, effective As part of the rebrand, members and visitors January 1, 2026. Located at 12001 Avalon will begin to see updates to the gym’s logo, Lake Drive, Suite M-P, in the heart of colors, and signage, reflecting a cohesive Downtown Avalon Park, the rebrand reflects Avalon Park brand while maintaining the a more intentional alignment with Avalon same trusted team and quality experience. Park Group’s vision to create healthy, In response to member feedback, new sustainable, and connected communities. fitness classes have already been added, with additional programming planned as The gym has always been owned and the gym continues to evolve with the needs managed by Avalon Park Group, and that of the community. remains unchanged. This rebrand represents a strategic evolution that aligns the gym with To celebrate the launch of Avalon Park Gym, other Avalon Park Group communities and the community is invited to begin a renewed amenities, including Encore at Avalon Park health and wellness journey throughout Assisted Living & Memory Care, The Flats the month of January. Joiner fees will be at Avalon Park apartments, The 5th Floor waived for all new memberships, with co-working spaces and the Marketplace flexible options available to fit a variety at Avalon Park food hall. Together, these of lifestyles. Gold memberships include brands support Avalon Park Group’s full access to equipment, group fitness mission to change the way the world classes, personal training opportunities, lives, learns, works, and plays by fostering and specialty pop-up classes, while Silver thoughtful, people-focused places where memberships offer access to equipment and community well-being is prioritized. weights. Day passes are also available for those who prefer to participate occasionally, “At Avalon Park Group, our mission and complimentary day passes are offered is rooted in building communities that to anyone who would like to experience the support the whole person,” said Beat Kahli, gym for the first time. Community members President and CEO of Avalon Park Group. are encouraged to stop by, try a class, “Rebranding East Orlando Gym as Avalon and become part of a place where health, Park Gym strengthens our shared message connection, and belonging come together. and reinforces the importance of wellness as a cornerstone of community life. This For more information about Avalon Park is about creating spaces where people feel Gym, please call 407-988-3884 or visit welcome, supported, and connected, AvalonParkGym.com.

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LEARN

East Orlando Youth Advisory Board Celebrates a Year of Growth and Impact

The East Orlando Youth Advisory Board of space to connect, learn, and recharge. This L.O.V.E. Our Youth has proudly concluded accomplishment represents the culmination another remarkable year filled with growth, of years of planning, collaboration, and achievement, and meaningful service. leadership. With the guidance of staff Guided by the organization’s mission to and mentors, the board now manages the empower and uplift youth, the advisory program and continues to maintain a fun, board, made up of dedicated teens including safe, and engaging environment for all Aaliyah, Carlo, Charlisse, Dylan, Kemoi, participants. Programming has expanded to Kristina, Faith, Malak, Zariah, Lauryn, and include mental health workshops, creative Marissa, has continued to make a profound arts sessions, leadership nights, and teamdifference in their community. Throughout building events, all designed to enhance the year, the group focused on initiatives communication, confidence, and community that aligned with the mental health and teen awareness. These activities directly support programming goals outlined in their logic the board’s broader outcomes, helping teens model. These efforts included promoting build resilience, reduce social isolation, and wellness, developing leadership skills, and develop lifelong leadership skills. fostering a sense of belonging among teens. Each member played a vital role in creating As the East Orlando Youth Advisory Board programs that not only supported personal looks ahead, members remain committed growth but also encouraged positive peer to expanding their outreach and continuing to create meaningful opportunities for their connections and safe self-expression. peers. Their accomplishments this year are A major highlight of 2025 was the successful a testament to their dedication, teamwork, expansion of the Teen Lounge, a program and the power of youth leadership in action. that transformed from a long-term vision With every meeting, event, and program, into a thriving reality. Previously open every these teens continue to demonstrate that other Friday, the Teen Lounge now operates when young people are given the tools and every Wednesday and Friday, providing trust to lead, they can truly transform their teens with a consistent and welcoming communities for the better.

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A Fresh Start for Curious Minds of All Ages By Tammy Davis, Creatively Influenced

students • Creative, curiosity-based learning experiences

January is more than a new month; it’s a fresh page. A chance to explore something new, return to something you once If there’s something you want to learn and don’t see listed, classes can be designed just for you. loved, or grow in a small but meaningful way. “Learning starts with curiosity at any age!”

Visit my website to explore class options.

Learning doesn’t have to start with a big goal or a long list Let’s make learning joyful, meaningful, and lifelong together. of resolutions. Sometimes it begins with a simple question: Contact me today 321-430-4061 or hello@creativelyinfluenced. com “What would I like to try, create, or understand this year?” The beautiful truth is that learning has no age limit. From toddlers to seniors, curiosity is always welcome. Learning Can Be Fun, Simple, and Creative Learning isn’t just for classrooms; it lives in everyday life. It can be playful, relaxing, and even social. Here are some easy ways anyone can bring learning into their day right now: • Explore technology or digital tools at a comfortable pace • Try creative hobbies like Cricut, design, crafts, or storytelling • Read for pleasure and share stories with friends or family • Play games that strengthen memory, focus, and problemsolving • Learn alongside someone else, curiosity grows when it’s shared “Try something new today, your next skill is waiting!” You don’t need to know everything to begin. Curiosity is enough. Confidence Grows at Every Age Learning builds confidence, whether you’re 2, 22, or 102. • For children, it sparks curiosity and language skills. • For students, it strengthens abilities and self-belief. • For adults, it opens doors and boosts independence. • For older adults, it supports memory, connection, and confidence in everyday tasks. When learning happens in a calm, encouraging environment, challenges feel manageable, progress feels possible, and growth becomes joyful. Learning is Everywhere, Start Today! You don’t need extra time, special tools, or a perfect plan. Learning grows in simple, everyday moments: • Asking questions and following curiosity • Trying something new, even in short bursts • Exploring tools like Cricut or Canva together • Allowing mistakes, they’re part of the process Even a few minutes a day can spark growth and confidence. “Not seeing a class, you want? Let’s design one together!” Let’s Learn Together, Classes for All. I offer learning experiences for everyone: toddlers, students, adults, and seniors, designed to meet you where you are. Sessions are available in person or virtually and can be flexible to fit your schedule and learning style. Services include: • Technology confidence for adults and seniors • AI and digital tools for everyday life • Canva and Cricut for personal or business projects • Literacy support and learning strategies for children and

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WORK

Business Trends to Watch in 2026 — and How The 5th Floor Supports What Comes Next As we look ahead to 2026, one thing is clear: the way people work, build businesses, and connect with customers continues to evolve. Entrepreneurs, small business owners, and growing teams are navigating a landscape shaped by flexibility, technology, and a renewed focus on relationships. Understanding these trends is essential, but having the right environment to adapt to them is what truly makes the difference.

environment where members can meet clients, host workshops, and present their ideas with confidence, without the cost of traditional office space.

Community-Driven Business Growth

Supporting What Comes Next

In 2026, businesses that thrive are those rooted in strong communities. Collaboration, referrals, and shared knowledge are increasingly valuable. The 5th Floor intentionally fosters a connected ecosystem of entrepreneurs, creatives, nonprofits, and professionals who benefit from proximity, shared experiences, and organic networking opportunities. Here, relationships are not transactional. They are built naturally.

Whether you are launching a startup, scaling a growing business, working remotely, or leading a nonprofit, the trends of 2026 point toward flexibility, connection, and purpose. The 5th Floor was built with these principles in mind long before they became industry standards.

Learning, Innovation, and Skill Sharing

Continuous learning is a defining trait of successful businesses in 2026. Workshops, peer-led discussions, and informal mentoring are becoming powerful tools for growth. Here are several key business trends shaping Through programming, events, and shared 2026 — and how The 5th Floor is designed to expertise among members, The 5th Floor creates support them. opportunities to learn from others who are navigating similar challenges and opportunities. Flexible Work Is No Longer Optional Work-Life Integration Hybrid schedules and flexible work environments are now the norm, not the Burnout is no longer seen as a badge of honor. exception. Businesses are seeking professional Businesses are prioritizing sustainability, spaces that allow teams to collaborate when wellness, and balance. Located in the heart needed while maintaining autonomy and of Downtown Avalon Park, The 5th Floor balance. The 5th Floor offers private offices, allows members to work within a walkable, coworking memberships, and meeting rooms mixed-use community where dining, fitness, that scale with your business, allowing you and community events are part of daily life. to grow without long-term overhead or rigid Productivity and well-being are not competing commitments. goals here; they work together.

Professional Presence Still Matters Even in a digital-first world, clients and partners still value professionalism. Having a credible business address, polished meeting spaces, and a setting that reflects your brand builds trust. The 5th Floor provides a professional

As businesses continue to adapt, spaces like The 5th Floor are not just places to work. They are platforms for collaboration, growth, and longterm success. If you are planning for what is next in your business journey, The 5th Floor is ready to support you — today and into 2026 and beyond. Give us a call at 407-730-3493 or visit us online today!

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DINING

Coming Soon to Downtown Avalon Park: Amalfi Brings a Fresh Taste of the Italian Coast Downtown Avalon Park is preparing the restaurant will stay open late, to welcome a new dining experience inviting guests to linger and enjoy the inspired by the flavors and lifestyle atmosphere. Amalfi will introduce of Italy’s iconic coastline. Amalfi is Aperitivo Italiano, a traditional Italian coming soon, offering a modern take pre-dinner experience that blends the on Italian cuisine that is both elevated relaxed feel of brunch with the energy of happy hour. This time-honored and approachable. ritual encourages conversation, Amalfi’s menu draws inspiration connection, and savoring the moment from the Amalfi Coast, featuring before dinner. thoughtfully prepared dishes that highlight fresh ingredients and bold Adding to the experience, Amalfi will yet balanced flavors. Guests can expect activate its drive-through window in a a selection of refined but affordable unique way, offering glasses of wine, salads, grilled fish, meats, and seafood, spritz cocktails, and affogato for walkalong with a variety of risottos crafted up service. This feature creates a fun, to showcase classic Italian techniques. European-style option for enjoying a The menu will also include piadina, a quick treat or beverage while strolling traditional Italian flatbread, offering a through Downtown Avalon Park. lighter and versatile option perfect for sharing or enjoying on the go. While Amalfi celebrates Italian cuisine, it is intentionally designed Behind Amalfi is a familiar and trusted to complement, not compete with, team. The owners and operators of existing Italian restaurants in the Amalfi are the same group behind community. Its coastal inspiration, Mangia, the well-loved and successful menu focus, and aperitivo-driven Italian eatery already serving the experience offer a distinctly different Avalon Park community. Their option, further enriching Avalon proven track record and commitment Park’s diverse dining scene. to quality dining bring an added level of excitement and confidence as they With its blend of fresh flavors, relaxed introduce this new coastal-inspired sophistication, and social charm, concept. Amalfi is set to become a new gathering place for neighbors and visitors alike. One of the most distinctive features of Stay tuned for opening details and be Amalfi will be its approach to social ready to experience a taste of the Italian dining. On Fridays and Saturdays, coast right here in Avalon Park.

DINING

Coming together to create a healthy community

LIVE WELL

ARTS & CULTURE CORNER A Creative Invitation: Announcing the Avalon Park Arts & Culture Center 2026 Exhibition Themes The Avalon Park Arts & Culture is proud to announce its 2026 exhibition themes, inviting artists of all backgrounds, styles, and experience levels to make this a year of creativity, exploration, and connection. Designed to be inclusive, inspiring, and communitydriven, the 2026 lineup celebrates both personal expression and shared stories, encouraging artists to showcase work that reflects who they are and what moves them.

established artists alike. Summer brings bold energy with Loud (July–August), a celebration of vibrant color, expressive marks, and confident creative voices. This exhibit encourages artists to lean into work that is playful, experimental, and unapologetically expressive.

In the fall, One Rule (September–October) challenges artists to create within a single self-imposed constraint, The year begins with Take Inspiration (January– inviting viewers into the creative process itself. The February), an open-ended exhibit welcoming artwork result is an exhibit rooted in curiosity, experimentation, sparked by a moment, memory, place, or feeling. and innovation across all mediums. This flexible show sets the tone for a year rooted in creativity without limits, welcoming all mediums and The year concludes with Gifts from the Heart both new and previously created works. (November–December), a holiday-focused exhibition featuring meaningful, handmade, and giftable art. In spring, Affordable Art: Conservation & Landscapes This exhibit supports local artists while offering the (March–April) celebrates Earth Day with a focus on community thoughtful, one-of-a-kind pieces perfect nature, sustainability, and accessibility. All artwork will for the season of giving. be priced at $100 or less, making art approachable for first-time collectors while highlighting environmental Artists are encouraged to get creative, mark their themes close to home. calendars, and be part of a vibrant year ahead at the Avalon Park Arts & Culture Center. Whether you The new 12 × 12 Showcase (May–June), invites artists are a seasoned artist or just beginning your creative of all experience levels to work within a shared format. journey, 2026 is your invitation to participate, connect, This exhibit creates a cohesive gallery experience and create. For more information and to submit your while giving each artist equal space to shine, making application visit online. it an ideal opportunity for emerging, student, and

ART CORNER

Art in the Atrium Opening Reception: “DREAM TEAM” by Damon DeWitt Orange County Arts & Cultural Affairs a two-way exchange. Other nations presents Art in the Atrium, featuring the learned the game, reshaped it, and now very colorful and very large “DREAM compete with us on equal terms.” TEAM” by Damon DeWitt. An opening reception will be held on Friday, “When I was ten, those players felt like January 9, 2026 in the atrium gallery gods. Their posters were on my walls, at the Orange County Administration cards in plastic sleeves, and I wore out Center. “DREAM TEAM” will be on my driveway hoop trying to be taller. display through January 22, 2026. The That childhood awe still lives inside the Administration Center is open Monday work.” through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., excluding holidays. Opening reception on Friday, January 9, 2026 According to DeWitt, “My series on the Doors open at 5 p.m. 1992 Barcelona Dream Team consists Program begins at 5:45 p.m. of twelve full-body portraits at each Display continues through January 22, player’s true height—a physical record 2026 of excellence. At the Barcelona Olympics, the court became a stage where America The Atrium Gallery showed its ingenuity and charm, and Orange County Administration Center its reach. Their dominance marked a 201 S. Rosalind Ave., Orlando, FL 32801 turning point: the game traveled faster than policy, and basketball became Admission to the reception is free, but a global language. What began as an advance registration is requested. exhibition of superiority turned into

COMMUNITY CORNER

Goodwill and Orlando Union Rescue Mission Celebrate Successful First Year of Program Benefitting Shelter Residents Goodwill Industries of Central Florida (GICF) is celebrating a successful inaugural year of its partnership with the Orlando Union Rescue Mission. Through the partnership, Goodwill has provided financial and career guidance to community members who don’t have stable housing. In late 2024, Goodwill launched its Prosperity Platform partnership at Orlando Union Rescue Mission’s shelter to offer residents workshops and one-on-one coaching about securing employment, building up savings and ultimately maintaining independence. “Helping people achieve their goals comes first at Goodwill, and by combining our efforts with another nonprofit that’s dedicated to transforming lives, we’ve expanded the reach of valuable resources and opportunities,” said Ed Durkee, GICF President and CEO. “Many Central Floridians have already achieved stability thanks to this partnership, and we look forward to making an even greater impact in the program’s second year.” Donating to and shopping at Goodwill locations across Orange, Osceola, Lake, Seminole, Volusia

and Brevard counties helps create quality jobs and support employment training programs while also keeping millions of pounds of household waste from reaching local landfills. For more information about Goodwill and the Prosperity Platform, visit www.GoodwillCFL.org.

COMMUNITY

Local Legend: Allyson Roth-Kennedy Avalon Park is filled with people who quietly details add warmth and personality to the give their time, creativity, and heart to make neighborhood and serve as a reminder that the community stronger. This month, we are creativity can brighten everyday spaces. honored to spotlight Allyson Roth-Kennedy, a true local legend whose creativity and In addition to her community-driven generosity have touched countless neighbors projects, Allyson’s artistic talent has also over the years. been recognized in a meaningful way. She was the winner of the inaugural Plein Air Allyson is a gifted artist, teacher, mother, Art Competition, and her winning piece was and friend, but above all, she is a connector. selected to be featured on the Avalon Park Through her many creative endeavors, she Reserve Wine label at Brix & Mortar. This has a remarkable way of bringing people achievement not only highlights her artistic together and making Avalon Park feel skill but also celebrates the connection like home. Each year, Allyson coordinates between local art, local business, and and produces a free haunted house for the community storytelling. community, welcoming families of all ages to enjoy a festive tradition rooted in creativity Allyson has also played an important role in and fun. What began as a labor of love has hosting ChariTea events, helping raise funds become a beloved annual event that many and awareness for local nonprofits through residents eagerly anticipate each fall. thoughtfully curated gatherings that blend creativity with purpose. As fellow community leader Joni Ostroff shared, “Allyson is a hardworking, dedicated artist, teacher, mother, and friend. She generously shares her time and talents, and Avalon Park is lucky to have her.”

Throughout the year, Allyson also hosts crafting and sewing gatherings, creating space for neighbors to learn new skills, share ideas, and build friendships. Her workshops are approachable, welcoming, and filled with encouragement, reflecting her belief that creativity is meant to be shared. She has Allyson’s impact is a beautiful example of also organized gingerbread house contests, how creativity, kindness, and consistency turning a simple holiday activity into a joyful can strengthen an entire community. community tradition. If you know a neighbor who should be Many residents recognize Allyson’s recognized as a Local Legend, we invite you handiwork through the charming handmade to submit a nomination by emailing info@ “cozies” that appear on stop sign poles during AvalonParkSun.com the holidays. These small but thoughtful