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Saturday, December 22, 2012

Avalon Park Gazette Volume I Issue V



An East Orlando Neighborhood Newsletter written by Neighbors for Neighbors reaching Avalon Park Residents and surrounding communities
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The AP Gazette
"Building Community One Issue at a Time!"


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Volume I Issue V


Embarking on a Journey Together


In this Issue:

Welcome, AP Neighborhood Watch, Mindful Matters, Real Estate 32828, Relay for Life, and The Pulse

(Any neighbor in the 32828 zip code can contribute by sending their article to Publishing@apgazette.com for consideration)

 

Welcome


written by Eddy Solon, Northwest Village
Realestate32828@gmail.com

 


Welcome neighbors.  The year is ending and as contributors and invested stakeholders of our

community, we are also celebrating the completion of our First Volume of the AP Gazette.  It's developing into a newsletter written solely by East Orlando Residents and business associates reaching close to a 1,000 plus neighbors and growing.    Within our First Volume, we would like to recognize two very distinct contributors who have given their time and talent unselfishly.  Dr. Purvi Gandhi, Mindful Matters contributor, and Evelyn Peterson, What's Growing on contributor, have both provided quality articles that were not only technically sound but also practical to our everyday lives.  Thank you for your continued contributions and providing a "breath of fresh air" in your articles.  Please feel free to commend Dr. Purvi Gahndi at www.drpurvigandhi.com  and Evelyn Peterson at Evelyn@Myrtleglen.com

As we enter into the 2013 phase, and Volume II, it has become apparent that we will have to begin to think about restructuring the organization of the Gazette team to ensure our mission statement (creed) is not compromised: "To build community one issue at a time through practical, informative, and lifestyle oriented articles in commitment with integrity, trust, and honesty."  Hence, to foster accountability to this creed, we are considering adding a board of overseers that will be responsible, along with the Managing Editor, for the direction of the newsletter, the assurance of its content, the documentation of organization responsibility and structure, and the lastly  the building of the newsletter distributionship.   The board can be any resident who is committed to the "spirit" of this newsletter and must be recommended by the Managing Editor, contributor, or any sitting board member.  They will not be required to contribute monthly.  Candidates who have taken active roles in our community will have immediate preference.    The responsibility of the board members will include voting or making recommendations via email and conducting at least one annual face to face meeting.  By allowing the responsibility of the newsletter content and direction to invested stakeholders with varying ideas and opinions via a vote will only help build the community-centered newsletter we are establishing together.   Lastly, as we grow, we refine, hence our creed will be updated for 2013 to add Good Will.  We believe contributing and participating in Good Will is very important and by placing it into our creed, it becomes an organizational goal.   The new creed for 2013 will be "To build community one issue at a time through practical, informative, and lifestyle oriented articles in commitment with Integrity, Trust, Honesty and Good Will."  If interested in being a board member, please email publishing@apgazette.com

Lastly, please welcome the newest members of our team, Chris Logan, Avalon Park Resident contributing monthly as a Political contributor, and Sara Morris, an Avalon Park Resident, Technical Write and Editor, participating monthly as a Reviewer.


Avalon Park Neighborhood Watch: This Past Month


written by Brian Jones, Parkside Landing
Overall Neighborhood Watch Coordinator
brianj4u2@gmail.com

Happy holidays from the Avalon Park Neighborhood Watch team.  As we finish a very active year

with the neighborhood watch program, it is important to recognize that our thriving community benefits from our neighborhood watch participation.  As an Avalon Park resident, participation is defined differently.  Some participate by being a village coordinator or a block captain and others, by simply being included on neighborhood watch communication.  With the New Year ahead, I’m excited about the opportunity to take our neighborhood watch program to the next level. We have exciting opportunities ahead of us.  So, what’s new in 2013?  How do we encourage safety awareness?  How can we as neighborhood watch participants help strengthen our network?  How will we manage and utilize our important “Avalon Park Neighborhood Watch” Facebook group?  We will answer each of these questions at our annual meeting scheduled for January 26th, 9:00 am at the South Village clubhouse, so please attend this very important meeting.  We are currently looking for sponsors and neighbors to help coordinate a breakfast for this event, so if you can help, please contact me directly.  

SAVE THE DATE:  January 26th at 9:00 am, we will have our Annual Meeting at the South Village clubhouse.
Avalon Park Neighborhood Watch

This past month the incidents reported on Avalon Park Neighborhood Watch website  by neighbors were:

December Statistics
Number Incident Reported Disposition by Off duties/ Update
1 Car was egged 12/04/2012. I park my car in front of the house, on Cepheus Drive.   General Notice
2  12/5/12 - Called OCSO to report suspicious behavior in two young males driving a late model Pearl white Cadillac. First saw them circling my block around 9 am. Saw them cruising Parkside Landing streets about 10 am. Saw them again cruising the alleys of the Townhomes near Avalon Park Blvd around 11am. Then reported to OCSO. Two young men, Caucasian or Hispanic, loud music, just cruising the neighborhood for at least 2 hours. Reported to Off Duty 


This month and every month after, we will report a summary of incidents and any updates from our off duty deputies in a table like above.

So what do you do when you see something suspicious?  First, contact the non-emergency like at 407-836-HELP or 911 if needed.  Secondly, submit an online incident report so neighbors who live in your area can be notified.   You can submit an online incident report at http://www.avalonparkwatch.org/incident_report.htm  Please only monitor and report suspicious activity....do not engage any criminals or suspicious individuals.

Have a safety concern?  Feel free to email our off duty deputies Sal.Saldano@ocfl.net   He is very responsive!   What does off duty mean?  It really does not mean they are completely off duty.   They are hired by funds set aside by our HOA dues, on their off duty hours, to help secure the safety of our Avalon Park community.    We have four, and Sal is the primary coordinator.

Mindful Matters: Let it Shine


written by Licensed Psychologist and Avalon Park YMCA Yoga Instructor, Dr. Purvi Gandhi
www.drpurvigandhi.com

It has been very difficult to comprehend the tragedy that occurred on Friday, December 14, 2012 at

Sandy Hook Elementary School.  I, along with many of you, have struggled with the loss of young, little lives and have been heartbroken by the incident.  Such an act is unfathomable and leaves our heart filled with sadness, fear, and anger. Questions have been asked about motive and signs—questions that we may never find the answers to.  These were our children and this was our town, as President Obama so accurately stated. How do the town of Newtown, Connecticut and the nation cope with this situation and get through something as unimaginable as this?
I read that some residents of Newtown took down their holiday lights, in mourning.  Understandably, they feel that it is not appropriate to celebrate the holidays and most likely do not feel the uplifting nature of the season at this time.  It is important that each of us allows ourselves time and space to grieve this loss and feel the gravity of the situation. And it is just as important that each of us remembers the Spirit of the Season.  Holding onto the Spirit of the Season is what will get each of us through the grief and horror of this incomprehensible experience.
The holiday lights remind us of the intention of the season and the three wise men who followed the star of Bethlehem.  Different religions speak of this same light, which guides us to a greater truth in the world.  The lighting of the menorah for Hanukah or the lighting of the devo for Diwali (Festival of Lights) in the Hindu faith.  The message is the same:  light overcomes the darkness and connects us to something greater and more profound in ourselves and in the world.  When we focus on this light, it can lead us out of the darkness and sorrow.   This light is represented all around us and within us.
The light within a person can be expressed by their faith, spirituality, or generosity---any type of action that taps into the goodness and humanity of ourselves and others.  We can demonstrate this by extending ourselves to one another. This may mean greeting our neighbors or lending a hand to someone in our community.  It could be volunteering at your church/temple or school.  Maybe it is helping organize and participating in our community activities.  Avalon Park residents tend to be an active community.  We can increase our sense of community and enhance our connection to one another by remembering the Spirit of the Season, all year long, and allowing our light to shine out into the world.  It is only by doing this that we can continue to create a world that is full of goodness, humanity, and meaning for ourselves and those we love.
To read more, visit my blog.

Real Estate 32828: Seller's Market?


written by Eddy Solon, Northwest Village
32828 Realtor, Keller Williams Realty
www.Realestate32828.com



Some say we are definitely in a solid Seller's Market.  Many did not expect this to happen so quickly,

considering the many incentives out there for buyers, including the very low interest rates.   Although, there are record low interest rates out there,  the very strict guidelines imposed by lending institutions are only affording a small percentage of buyers to really take advantage.   The market is getting stronger and in Avalon Park alone, it's nearly impossible to find a home in the low $100ks in contrast to a few months ago, where selected buyers found 1800 square feet detached homes selling at $95ks.  Although, we are not completely where we were a couple years ago, we are bouncing  back..  Today is a different day, the median price (from townhouse to single family) is starting around $140k.    So what should a potential seller consider in this market.... If possible, I would say, HOLD ON TO YOUR HOME.  If not, list and take advantage of the stronger market.

If invested and living in Avalon Park, keep doing what you are doing.   We have a great community with a lot of invested neighbors which essentially and statically add to the bottom line.   Potential buyers seek to live in communities that are safe, family oriented, and active and as you know, Avalon Park embodies all of this.   Overall in the 32828 zipcode, considering the thousands of homes located within this quaint corner of Orlando, there are very limited inventory available in all price ranges.   When a reasonably priced home that has been well maintained comes on the market, it is not surprising to fetch multiple offers.   This can be a very exciting time for some and an intimidating time for others, irregardless, keep in mind, Real Estate has room for everyone, from renters, to investors, to home owners.... just equip yourself with market information to make your journey a little easier.

 

 

Relay for Life: Avalon Park Residents Fighting Cancer Together!
Avalon Park Relay for Life

Submitted by Courtney Tomasi, Insight Magazine
Kindergarten Teacher, East Orlando Resident
Courtney.Tomasi@ocps.net


Walkers will go around the clock in the battle against cancer when the American Cancer Society’s

Relay For Life of Avalon Park gets underway with teams of residents gathering at Timber Creek High School on May 10, 2013 at 4:00 pm.

Relay For Life events are held overnight as individuals and teams camp out at the Timber Creek High School track, with the goal of keeping at least one team member on the track or pathway at all times throughout the evening. Teams do most of their fundraising prior to the event, but some teams also hold creative fundraisers at their camp sites during the Relay. The Relay brings together friends, families, businesses, hospitals, schools, faith-based groups and people from all walks of life – all aimed at furthering the American Cancer Society’s efforts to save lives by helping people stay well, get well, by finding cures and fighting back.

“Relay is a unique opportunity for our community to come together to celebrate people who have battled cancer, remember those we’ve lost, and fight back against the disease,” said Alyson Muse Relay For Life of Avalon Park chair. “Many of the participants are cancer survivors, which serves as a reminder that the Avalon park community is not immune to this disease and that by participating in Relay, we are joining with the American Cancer Society’s efforts to create a world with less cancer and more birthdays.”

Funds raised at Relay For Life of Avalon Park help the American Cancer Society to impact the lives of those touched by cancer within the community. In 2012, Relay For Life events across great state of Florida raised over $21 million to help cancer patients and their families in local communities and to fund lifesaving cancer research. The Relay For Life of Avalon Park has raised more than $65,000 that helped to fund lifesaving programs and services locally! All of this is made possible by Relay For Life. We welcome you to join us in the fight against cancer today!

If you are interested in joining the fight, go to www.relayforlife.org/avalonparkfl to register your team for the event! All businesses, schools, churches, organizations, etc. are welcome to register their team!

SAVE THE DATE: Relay for Life Kick Off Meeting at Timber Creek High School on November 28, 2012.  Email Alyson at Alysmuse11@yahoo.com for details.

The Pulse: A Name with No Town


Written by Chris Logan, Timbercreek Village
cjlogan@gmail.com

Greetings from Avalon Park, Florida.  If the last sentence sounded slightly odd, it's because no such

place exists on any official map of Florida.  Avalon Park is not a city, town or village. It's not even a Census Designated Place such as neighboring Bithlo or Christmas.  Technically speaking, Avalon Park is a neighborhood.  A neighborhood indeed, but more importantly a community.  Since its foundation, the community called Avalon Park is identifiable by people who live outside of the immediate area.  Telling a friend or co-worker from the Orlando area that one lives in Avalon Park will typically be returned with a knowing acknowledgement.  Often, that recognition is also accompanied by assumptions about those who live there.   Avalon Park may not be a town or city, but it is no less of a community.

On Tuesday December 11th, the Avalon Park Property Owner's Association (POA) held its annual meeting to elect two new board members and approve the 2013 budget.  Unfortunately, a quorum of residents could not be achieved between the proxy ballots and those attending the meeting.  This means that the other four board members will select the winning candidates for these open positions.  Upon being asked the question, a current board member affirmed that the board has honored the ballot tally that was submitted by proxy ballots.  This does allude to a somewhat sad state of affairs – the fact that not even 20% of the community’s residents care enough to attend the meeting or submit their selection ahead of time.  If you wish to witness the selection of the new board members, make sure to attend the board’s next meeting on Tuesday January 15th.

In addition to the failed attempt to re-elect the board, the meeting also featured questions and discussion about the 2013 budget for the community.  All residents should have received the budget in their mailbox (along with those elusive proxies and ballots).  A thorough review of the budget is beyond the scope of this article and the patience of most readers.  A Reader’s Digest version is included here for those who like their budgets short-and-sweet.

The budget breaks down into the following categories, with comparisons of 2012 and 2013 amounts:

Line Item 2012 2013 Delta Delta %
G&A $2,158,925.00 $1,971,349.25 ($187,576.56) -8.69%
Grounds Maintenance $1,417,899 $1,500,737.29 $82,838.00 5.84%
Utilities $334,640 $337,340.00 $2,700.00 0.81%
Recreational $556,582. $491,500.00 ($65,082.44) -11.69%
Reserves $564,476 $764,213.46 $199,737.00 35.38%
Total $5,032,524 $5,065,140.00 $32,616.00 0.65%

The table below contains all budget line items that increased or decreased by more than 20% from 2012 to 2013.

Line Item 2012 2013  Increase Increase %
Alleyway Maintenance $2,000 $50,000 $48,000 2400%
Tennis Courts $500 $2,000 $1,500 300%
Tennis Courts $500 $2,000 $1,500 300%
Holiday Decorating $10,000 $30,000 $20,000 200%
Fitness Center $5,000 $13,000 $8,000 160%
Park-Repairs-Maintenance $14,000 $25,000 $11,000 79%
Pool Supplies & Equipment Repair $49,000 $62,000 $13,000 27%
Community Center $25,000 $30,000 $5,000 20%
SV Fitness Center Employees $90,554 $72,000 ($18,554) -20%
Cable Television $1,075,000 $850,000 ($225,000) -21%
Pool Furniture $19,578 $14,500 ($5,078) -26%
Cabana & Janitorial Service $255,000 $175,000 ($80,000) -31%
Volleyball Court Repairs $750 $500 ($250) -33%

Some additional areas of interest in this budget:
  • The budget increased 0.6% from $5.032m to $5.065m.
  •  $5,700 was approved for removal of wild boars.  Their location won’t be divulged here to protect the curious.  Call the POA office for more information.
  • $451k will be spent on management fees and on-site staffing.  That’s nearly 9% of the overall budget.
Finally, a last item of note from the annual meeting.  The curious or observant driver may have noticed a cleared area on the east side of Alafaya Trail, just north of Avalon Park Blvd.  The board clarified that this is the future location of a 264 unit apartment complex.  More information will be provided in a future month’s article.

Not to be outdone, our county commissioners are also hard at work.  The commission is evaluating walking and biking trails across the county.  From the 12 trails being evaluated, three are in the general area of Avalon Park.  The Innovation Way/UCF, Avalon and East Orange Trails are all under consideration.  Unfortunately, these three trails ranked fourth, seventh and tenth respectively in the board’s analysis.  The unincorporated area of Orange County surrounding Avalon Park are certainly lacking in recreational space in comparison to other sections.  Hopefully the county commission will see fit to send some tax dollars back into the Avalon Park area.

Farewell from Avalon Park, Florida – until next month.

Chris Logan has lived in Avalon Park for over seven years, with his beautiful wife Patricia and three children Ian, Austin and Abigail.  Prior to moving to Florida, he lived in Massachusetts for 19 years, and Kansas City, Missouri for 16 years before that.  He believes that his experiences from living in such varied places has created a particular mental triangulation that puts him somewhere in West Virginia or Kentucky.

Pic of the Month

Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas!

To submit a pic of the month, please email Publishing@apgazette.com

AP Gazette Opportunities

As a new and growing newsletter, we have many opportunities for neighbors to contribute and volunteer their writing talents/ time to help build community.   Below are several positions still needing to be filled:

1.  Reviewers- to review final submittal of newsletters prior to publishing
2.  Education Contributor-   An article written by an Educator in one of East Orlando schools.  Topics may be anything to do with Education and teacher, student, and parent awareness.  This will be a good place to highlight top achievers in our school (teachers and students).
3.  Sports Contributor-   To discuss East Orlando Sports, anything from little league and up

To be able to participate, you must be an East Orlando resident, if writing, submit an article prior to 3rd Thursday of the Month 12:00 pm, and send your interest and brief description of your background to Publishing@apgazette.com   Keep in mind, any neighbor can submit an article.

Avalon Park Yard of the Month

Yard of the Month – November 2012

Congratulations to 13655 Phoenix Dr.

Anyone may nominate a front yard by contacting the Avalon Park Property Owner Association or by sending an email to Evelyn@Myrtleglen.com with the address of the nominated front yard and the reason why it deserves the Award.


December Birthdays/ Anniversary

  • James "JC" Liriano- 17- December 24th- Village 6
  • Jimmy and Judi Liriano 18th Year Anniversary- December 30th- South Village
  • Alan & Virginia Sasser 35 year Anniversary-  December 30th- South Village
  • Virginia Sasser - December 27th- Northwest Village
Submit a Birthday for next month by sending an email to Publishing@apgazette.com send Name, date, age turning, and your village.


Tell Us Your Story

Have a Story to tell us.  Tell us your Unique Avalon Park Story.   We want to know all the great things that residents and businesses are doing that are affecting our community and beyond including triumphs, journeys, and achievements.  Email your story to Publishing@apgazette.com



 

East Orlando Important Dates

  • 01/26-  Annual AP Neighborhood Watch Meeting @ 9am, South Village Community Center
  • 3rd Thursday of each Month- @ 7pm starting 02/21/2013 AP Neighborhood Watch Meeting


AP Gazette Creed 
To build community one issue at a time through practical, informative, and lifestyle oriented articles in commitment with integrity, trust, honesty. and Good Will.

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Monday, November 19, 2012

Avalon Park Gazette Volume I Issue IV



An East Orlando Neighborhood Newsletter written by Neighbors for Neighbors reaching Avalon Park Residents and surrounding communities
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The AP Gazette
"Building Community One Issue at a Time!"


To Subscribe | Like Avalon Park Gazette Volume I Issue IV on Facebook  |   Tweet this | To receive Text(s) on Family Events,  | Email phone # to text@apgazette.com


Volume I Issue IV


Embarking on a Journey Together


In this Issue:

Welcome, AP Neighborhood Watch, Real Estate 32828,  Expecting the Unexpected, Relay for Life, What's Growing on, Mindful Matters, Yard of the Month, AP New Board Members (vote/ nominate)

(Any Neighbor in the 32828 Zip code can contribute by sending their article to Publishing@apgazette.com for consideration)

 

Welcome

written by Eddy Solon, Northwest Village
32828 Realtor, Keller Williams Realty

 


Welcome neighbors.   First, I would like to say thank you for continuing to receive this newsletter every month.  Every neighbor participates in their own way, and by simply receiving this newsletter every month, you are actively engaging in the well being of our community.  It is certainly appreciated.   Just the other day, it seemed that the year just began and now, Christmas is around the corner.  Time surely does not wait.  Since last issue, there were several events and activities that took place in Avalon Park, including Avalon Park  1st Annual Gala, Spooktacular, Movies Under the Stars, and our very own Avalon Park Haunted House.  Amidst all this Activity, the neighbors have vetted and selected a new Neighborhood Watch Coordinator, Brian Jones.   I have worked with Brian when he coordinated the Neighborhood Watch tent for spooktacular.  He appears to be very focused on building our community through his continued efforts in this award winning Neighborhood Watch program, here in AP.   He has my full endorsement, as a prior Coordinator and neighbor. (To learn more about Brian visit http://www.Apgazette.com and read Issue II).  Please take time to look at the important dates/ reminders on the bottom of the Newsletter under "East Orlando Important Dates" such as Avalon Park's Annual Membership Meeting that will elect (2) Directors to serve three year terms on the board of Directors.   As in all elections, the candidate, Board members, represents their constituents, AP residents, so it is very important to participate in the selection of the candidate and to achieve membership quorum.

In conclusion, this year is coming to an end and has been a very dynamic journey for many neighbors.  Regardless of the journey, we can claim this, we are still standing and our best days are surely not behind us.  Challenges and life difficulties often can become great opportunities!


Avalon Park Neighborhood Watch: This Past Month

written by Brian Jones, Parkside Landing
Overall Neighborhood Watch Coordinator

Can you believe that in 2013, Avalon Park will be 18 years old?  Over the years, the founders of Avalon Park have created a great community for all of us with the slogan:  “Live, learn, work and play”.  We have an unique opportunity as Neighborhood Watch participants and as residents in Avalon to take part of our safety so we can Live, Learn, Work and Play.   Avalon Park Neighborhood Watch Mission Statement:

“To positively promote safety at Avalon Park through the building of a network of neighbors for the reporting and notification of suspicious activities, and to promote safety education and awareness to ensure the positive lifestyle that living in Avalon Park affords.”

This mission statement includes an ongoing partnership with the Orange County Sheriff’s office with the goal of improving safety and preventing crime in our community.  It is the basics of this program that has made it so successful over the past five years.  As we enter our holiday season, I look forward to meeting more Avalon residents.   The APNW team will have a booth at the Avalon Aglow festival on December 1st.  Village coordinators and block captains will be working this booth with the goal of building our network.  If you interested in volunteering, please email me at brianj4u2@gmail.com

SAVE THE DATE:  January 26th at 9am, we will have our Annual Meeting at the South Village Club House.

This past month the incidents reported on Avalon Park Neighborhood Watch website  by neighbors were:

November Statistics
Number Incident Reported Disposition by Off duties/ Update
1 White male maybe in 40's came to my door, said he was with ADT and started asking questions like if I had an alarm system. I informed him soliciting was not allowed in Avalon Park and he left.   General Notice
2  Home was broken into and ransacked on October 31, 2012 at approximately 6:30pm. Jewelry and cash were among the items stolen./  Street: Rainbow Springs Lane   
3
Auto Burglary.
A. One Garmin GPS and Charger: Total Value 100.00
B. One Silver and Black Hard Shell Brief Case with 4 Books on Treatment Planning and Counseling: Total Value 300.00
C. Two Head Rest DVD players (Silver and Blue):Total Value 100.00/ Street: Abbey Blanco
4
Car ran through the curb and into the pond at the end of Cassia where it meets Chicora Crossing. The car is submerged in the water. The guy got out. Police are questioning him
  Sal was on the scene shortly.  Updated NW coordinator. 

This month and every month after, we will report a summary of incidents and any updates from our off duties in a table like above.

So what do you do when you see something suspicious?  First, you contact the non emergency like at 407-836-help or 911 if needed.  Secondly, you submit an online incident report so neighbors who live in your area can be notified.   You can submit an online incident report at http://www.avalonparkwatch.org/incident_report.htm  Please only monitor and report suspicious activity....Do not engage any criminals or suspicious individuals.   Once the new Neighborhood Watch coordinator is in place, he/she will coordinate the distribution of incident reports on a daily basis to coordinators, whom will forward it to their block captains and then the neighbors.   The new Neighborhood Watch coordinator will actively build the distribution network so neighbors will have immediate awareness.   Until filled, the only Neighborhood Watch updates the community will receive is through the monthly article in this gazette

Have a safety concern?  feel free to email our off duty deputies Sal.Saldano@ocfl.net   He is very responsive!   What does off duty mean?  It really does not mean they are completely off duty.   They are hired by funds set aside by our HOA dues, on their off duty hours, to help secure the safety of our Avalon Park community.    We have 4, and Sal is the primary coordinator.


Real Estate 32828: Opportunistic Market

written by Eddy Solon, Northwest Village
32828 Realtor, Keller Williams Realty
www.Realestate32828.com


The average price per square feet for the prior month was $89 for the 32828 zip code.  As expected, some areas are more and some are less.  But this is a good starting point, if you are considering buying or selling.  Begin this process by first having realistic expectations of the real estate market by utilizing what the market is willing to pay at this moment, and as it stands right now, it's around $89 per square feet.   This price has increased steadily about 2.5-5% per month for the past 6 months alone.   As expected, many sellers are holding on to their property to reap the potential gains of the current market projections.  So is this a good strategy?   I would say yes.  I, too, am in the same boat, having property in Waterford lakes also.   knowing this, one would ask, does it make a seller's market?  Not exactly, since prices are still low and interest rates are in the 3 percent, there are several incentives for buyers to jump in the market now.    Though, I do believe the time is running out and soon you will find it to be a solid seller's market.  I would not be surprised if this transition takes place within the next 6 months or so.  In Avalon Park alone inventory is limited and schools are A+, all indicators of strong market trends.

Hence this is a good time to think about investment properties in 32828 zip code.  There are several reasons why buyers choose to live in and around this zip code; Avalon Park, Eastwood, Avalon Lakes, Stoneybrook, & Waterford Lakes.  Both Avalon Park and Waterford Lakes can boast of great town Centers, and all enjoy Family Friendly relaxed atmosphere, community appeal, and A rated schools.  We also have good property management companies located within the zip code for absentee owners who are looking to invest in their portfolio through real estate.   The window for finding good investments within this zip code while yielding good returns is closing every day according to market trends, so if this is a consideration, the East Orlando buyer should seriously consider exploring the opportunity now.


Expecting the Unexpected: One Neighbor's Story

Received from Newsletter by Stephanie Hodson, South Village


In August, our neighbor, Craig (29 Years Old) and his wife Krystal, rushed to the hospital because Craig had an unexplained seizure.  It turned out that he had a brain tumor.  The last few weeks have been very hard for him as he has gone through surgery to remove part of the tumor and his temporal lobe.  The doctors were able to remove most of the tumor but Craig will need chemo and radiation five days a week for the next six weeks.  Craig had just started a new job the week before his seizure, after five years at this old job, and was exactly between his two insurance coverage's.   Krystal is a school teacher and has not been able to take much time off.  The hospital bills, gas, tolls to chemo appointments and fatigue are their biggest challenges right now.   Many of the residents on Sweet Acacia Dr. in Village Six are doing all they can to help with prayers.   Prayers are most important to them and much appreciated.   Donations can be made to this Avalon Park Family, through the Avalon Park Foundation, at the Avalon Park Fairwinds to "The Lambert Family Fund!"


Relay for Life: Avalon Park Residents Fighting Cancer Together!
Avalon Park Relay for Life

Submitted by Courtney Tomasi, Insight Magazine
Kindergarten Teacher, East Orlando Resident
Courtney.Tomasi@ocps.net


Walkers will go around the clock in the battle against cancer when the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life of Avalon Park gets underway with teams of residents gathering at Timber Creek High School on May 10, 2013 at 4:00pm.

Relay For Life events are held overnight as individuals and teams camp out at the Timber Creek High School track, with the goal of keeping at least one team member on the track or pathway at all times throughout the evening. Teams do most of their fundraising prior to the event, but some teams also hold creative fundraisers at their camp sites during Relay. Relay brings together friends, families, businesses, hospitals, schools, faith-based groups . . . people from all walks of life – all aimed at furthering the American Cancer Society’s efforts to save lives by helping people stay well, by helping them get well, by finding cures and by fighting back.

“Relay is a unique opportunity for our community to come together to celebrate people who have battled cancer, remember those we’ve lost, and fight back against the disease,” said Alyson Muse Relay For Life of Avalon Park chair. “Many of the participants are cancer survivors, which serves as a reminder that the Avalon park community is not immune to this disease and that by participating in Relay, we are joining with the American Cancer Society’s efforts to create a world with less cancer and more birthdays.”

Funds raised at Relay For Life of Avalon Park help the American Cancer Society to impact the lives of those touched by cancer within the community. In 2012, Relay For Life events across great state of Florida raised over $21 million to help cancer patients and their families in local communities and to fund lifesaving cancer research. The Relay For Life of Avalon Park raised more than $65,000 that helped to fund lifesaving programs and services locally! All of this is made possible by Relay For Life. We welcome you to join us in the fight against cancer today!

If you are interested in joining the fight, go to www.relayforlife.org/avalonparkfl to register your team for the event! All businesses, schools, churches, organizations, etc. are welcome to register their team!

SAVE THE DATE: Relay for Life Kick Off Meeting at Timber Creek High School on November 28, 2012.  Email Alyson at Alysmuse11@yahoo.com for details.

What's Growing On


written by Evelyn Peterson, Timbercreek Village
Evelyn@Myrtleglen.com

Hello gardening friends!
This year, for the first time, Avalon Park is recognizing the Yard of the Year. Chosen from the winning yards August 2011 to August 2012, the honor goes to 2621 Silver River Trail. The front yard is always taken care of, no matter when I drive by, it always looks perfect! Congratulations !
The Award was presented at the Foundation Gala, November 3rd.



To Do’s in your Garden:
  •  Daylight Savings Time ended November 4, 2012, this means lawn watering schedule is back to once per week. Homes with odd-numbered addresses are allowed to turn on the lawn sprinkler system on Saturday and homes with even-numbered addresses on Sunday.
  • Divide your perennials such as iris, lilies, bulbines
  • Fall is the perfect time to plant or transplant trees and shrubs. The plants will have enough time to get the root system established over the cooler months to start growing when it warms up again in spring.
Plant of the Month: Kumquat, a small fruit bearing tree

Kumquat season is almost here. I am picking the first ripe ones already.
The Meiwa variety has large, round fruits, very sweet and juicy, best for eating right off the little tree.
The Nagami variety has the well-known tart, oblong fruits. They are great for making Marmalade, Chutney and homemade Liqueur.

Kumquats are naturally small trees, so they are well suited as a container plant. The Kumquat trees are the easiest of citrus trees, grow them in full sun and they are happy. They go somewhat dormant during the cold months and are hardy to 26F. Kumquat trees are pest free, except for Leaf Miners, but besides making the leaves look ugly, they don’t seem to hurt the tree. Eat the entire fruit, the peel is sweet and the flesh is tart.

Happy Gardening!

Mindful Matters: 'Tis the Season

written by Licensed Psychologist and Avalon Park YMCA Yoga Instructor, Dr. Purvi Gandhi
www.drpurvigandhi.com

Well, the season is nearly upon us!  The season full of festivities and fun!  Or is it the season full of frenzy and a flurry of activities??  When you think of the holiday season, do you tense up and try to brace yourself for a whirlwind of stress and anxiety?  It can happen every holiday time…we lose sight of the warm, positive feelings of the season and become wrapped up in all the demands of the days.  Here are a few strategies to help put a little spirit back into your life and help you stay sane through it all!
Let’s start with a little activity. Grab a sheet of paper and write down your ideas of a wonderful holiday season. Make a list of the activities (be specific) and the feelings you would like to create during this time.

1.Now, review your list and determine if you set realistic expectations.  Remember that you do not have to create a perfect holiday memory or replicate all or most of your childhood holiday experiences.  There may be some traditions that you do want to continue, but there may be others you may want to change or drop all together.  Consider being flexible on some of your family traditions and rituals.  You may want to think about starting new traditions, finding ones that fit better into your family’s schedule.

2.Pencil It In: As your schedule fills up with various holiday activities, it can be helpful if you also schedule in your own holiday tasks, such as decorating, shopping, and baking.  Set aside time to complete these tasks by writing them into your schedule. And remember to overestimate the amount of time it will take to complete the task.  For example, when you are penciling in the time to shop for a gift, include the travel time (and traffic time) to get to the mall.  

3. Make Your List & Check It Twice: Start early by creating a list of those that you would like to buy a gift for.  But remember that the gift does NOT have to be perfect!  Nor does it have to be expensive or extravagant.  Spending a large amount of money or focusing only on finding the “perfect” gift can lead you to feel less in the giving mood and just more stressed. Another tip: instead of buying for everyone at the office or within a large group, consider starting an office exchange.

4. Stick to a Budget: Before you start the holiday shopping, identify the amount of money you want to spend for the holidays.  You may want to break that down even more by identifying the amount you want to spend on each person or family. One way to stay on track with your spending is to designate a bank account or credit card that is only for your holiday spending.  To save a few bucks (and give a heart-felt gift), consider giving homemade gifts, such as baked goods or donating to a charity in someone’s name.  Once you have your budget, Don’t Overspend!

5. Delegate, delegate, delegate: One of the problems during this time of the year is all the tasks that you may feel like need to be completed. And they may need to be done...just not all by you!  Delegate family members to specific tasks, such as buying some grocery items, putting up decorations, or making or bringing some dishes.  Don’t feel like you have to do it all on your own.  If you involve others, you can help reduce the amount of stress you feel and have others take responsibility for the festivities.

6.N-O: This is a big one! And can be a tough one for some people to do.  But learning to say “No”  is necessary at times. In the middle of all the invitations, you have to take care of yourself and know your limits, in terms of time and energy.  Just know that you cannot attend every party or gathering.  Repeat after me: “Thank you, but no, I can’t.”  Practice it!

7.Keep Your Healthy Lifestyle: Sanity comes from having a balance in your life and taking care of yourself.  That includes continuing some of the healthy activities you are used to doing, such as exercising and eating healthy. There will be times when you may overindulge in food or alcohol, but try to limit those times.  Drinking water, hydrating, and getting adequate sleep will also help you maintain balance during this time. If you find that you tend to stress easily during the holidays (or at any time), consider taking yoga and meditation classes to learn how to reduce the stress you feel.

Most importantly, remember the joy of the season and allow yourself to experience that in small ways.  Make sure you: Breathe, Laugh, Have Fun…..REPEAT

For some people, the holiday season can stir up some unpleasant emotions and lead to the holiday blues. Take some time to pay attention to how you feel during the holidays.  Notice if you feel the holiday blues:
•Feeling persistently sad, anxious, or crying frequently
•Feeling agitated or irritated easily and hopeless
•Feeling isolated from others
•Frequent physical complaints
If you notice these symptoms, consider seeking professional help.  To read more, visit my blog.

Pic of the Month

Avalon Park Gala- 2012 Excellence in Community Banking
Avalon Park Gala- 2012 Excellence in Community Banking
To submit a pic of the month, please email Publishing@apgazette.com

AP Gazette Opportunities

As a new and growing newsletter, we have many opportunities for neighbors to contribute and volunteer their writing talents/ time to help build community.   Below are several positions still needing to be filled:

1.  Reviewers- to Review final submittal of newsletters prior to publishing
2.  Political Contributor- To introduce community and discuss activities of our Board, commissioners, orange county, and POA, and keep neighbors informed of upcoming important dates to remember
3.  Education Contributor-   An article written by an Educator in one of East Orlando schools.  Topics may be anything to do with Education and teacher, student, and parent awareness.  This will be a good place to highlight top achievers in our school (teachers and students).
4.  Sports Contributor-   To discuss East Orlando Sports, anything from little league and up

To be able to participate, you must be an East Orlando resident, if writing, submit an article prior to 3rd Thursday of the Month 12 pm, and send your interest and brief description of your background to Publishing@apgazette.com   Keep in mind, any neighbor can submit an article.

Avalon Park Yard of the Month

Yard of the Month – November 2012

Congratulations to 13655 Phoenix Dr.

Anyone may nominate a front yard by contacting the Avalon Park Property Owner Association or by sending an email to Evelyn@Myrtleglen.com with the address of the nominated front yard and the reason why it deserves the Award.


November/ December Birthdays/ Anniversary

  • Judi Liriano- 38- November 28th- Village 6
  • James "JC" Liriano- 17- December 24th- Village 6
  • Jimmy and Judi Liriano 18th Year Anniversary- December 30th- South Village
  • Alan & Virginia Sasser 35 year Anniversary-  December 30th- South Village
  • Virginia Sasser - December 27th- Northwest Village
Submit a Birthday for next month by sending an email to Publishing@apgazette.com send Name, date, age turning, and your village.


Tell Us Your Story

Have a Story to tell us.  Tell us your Unique Avalon Park Story.   We want to know all the great things that residents and businesses are doing that are affecting our community and beyond including triumphs, journeys, and achievements.  Email your story to Publishing@apgazette.com



 

East Orlando Important Dates

  • 11/28- Relay for Life Kick Off Meeting at Timber Creek High School
  • 12/11- Notice of Annual Membership Meeting- Selecting new board members Avalon Church 5:30 pm
  • 01/26-  Annual AP Neighborhood Watch Meeting @ 9am, South Village Community Center
  • 3rd Thursday of each Month- @ 7pm starting 02/21/2013 AP Neighborhood Watch Meeting


AP Gazette Creed 
To build community one issue at a time through practical, informative, and lifestyle oriented articles in committment with integrity, trust, and honesty.

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Avalon Park Resident
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