Avalon Park’s website expounds the appeal of small-town America by stating that the area was built on the “rich traditions of small-town life. Tree-lined streets, lakes, lush landscaping, rocking chair porches,” etc., etc. Situated in southeast Orange County, and nestled beside the serene, natural surroundings of the Econlockhatchee River, Avalon Park has 240 acres of wetlands, 400 acres of upland preserve, 250 acres of man-made lakes, walking/biking trails and a pool with a cabana in the center of each neighborhood village. It is the perfect setting for a budding garden club. And that is just what the Avalon Park Garden Club is.

The Avalon Park Garden Club began in 2007 through the efforts of local residents. The Club evolved over the years and has been re-energized with members who are fondly interested in gardening and beautification of the community.

Meetings are held monthly and everything garden related is discussed with each meeting addressing one main topic. Guest speakers are invited to present and garden tours and field trips are arranged, as well as various fundraising opportunities. The mission of the Club is to develop home gardening, protect local wildlife and meet new friends with common interests. The Club meets the first Monday of each month at the Avalon Church in Avalon Park at 7:00 p.m. Dues are $12 per year; $20 per couple.

During Oktoberfest, the Club held its first photo contest of “gardens with natural habitat.”  In November, they conducted the first “tour of neighborhood gardens.” December brought the annual “Avalon Aglow” parade, where club members marched and scattered seed packets throughout the gathering crowds. They also sold poinsettias to residents as a fundraising project during this event.

Neighbors and friends are invited to become a part of the club, whether you are a novice to gardening or a master gardener. The club is open to East Orlando residents who would like to make the love of gardening a fun part of their lives.

When asked how she developed her interest in gardening, the newly elected president of the club, Lauren Schonk, said:  “Growing up in Winter Park, we had orange trees in the back yard and lots of oak leaves to rake. When my  husband and I purchased our first home on the east side of Winter Park, I had the hang of trimming our three huge oak trees; planting azalea’s, rose bushes and hand watering the oversized corner lot. Later I began experimenting with carrots and strawberries, as well as a variety of many additional central Florida friendly plants and flowers over the years.”

Schonk also believes there is a real benefit to gardening. “Some of the things I enjoy most include the physical aspect. It’s a great way to get exercise - trimming bushes is a wonderful upper body workout,” she says. “Weeding relaxes the mind and I find planting and designing gardens an exciting creative outlet. I also use gardening as a way to volunteer my time.”

Even if you’ve never gardened before, the club’s website is designed with you in mind. Upon visiting you’ll find various tips regarding herbs that grow well in the area, as well as an article on the easiest way to create a flowerbed, how to make a rainwater barrel, how to propagate plants from cuttings, how to design a pottage garden with edible flowers and herbs, as well as veggies - there’s something for everyone. There are also month-by-month tips on what to do in the garden.  At a recent meeting, one of the club’s gardeners even instructed members on creating a succulent garden in a clay saucer.

The Club shares gardening techniques and instructs residents what plants grow well in this region. Besides planning various field trips, the Club also participates in many local events and holds fundraisers to support the activities of the club.

Evelyn Peterson, the Club’s secretary and webmaster, uses her quote on all Club related activities: “So much to dig, so little time.” One of the Club’s main projects this year will be the opening of the Avalon Park “Butterfly” Garden. This garden will be a serenity spot for residents and visitors alike to interact with nature, meditate and reflect. It will also offer educational opportunities for all residents.

Some upcoming topics for future meetings will be composting, container gardening, flower arranging, organizing the next plant swap in the spring and planning the annual photo contest.

In East Orlando, if you’ve ever been interested in gardening, you may have just found the perfect way to get your new hobby growing.

Article by Leslie N. Dawson

Roses are red, violets are blue, why not add a twist to this Valentine’s Day for your sweetheart and you?

If you need a break from traditional flowers and chocolates, consider these unique, budget-friendly tips while planning a memorable Valentine’s Day for that special someone in your life.

Revise the typical “dinner and a movie” date by bringing the indoors, out. Pack a picnic basket for a peaceful night under the stars. Valentine’s at Leu Gardens offers couples an outdoor evening retreat. “Movies in the gardens remind some people of the old Drive-In Movie. For others, it is a more intimate experience,” says Tracy Micciche, events and marketing coordinator at Leu Gardens. “Where else in Central Florida can you take a stroll around a botanical garden before a movie? And the best part is you can have a romantic dinner in the gardens.” This year’s feature presentation, An Officer and a Gentleman, will take place on Monday, February 14 at 7:30 p.m.

For those with a creative side, team up with your sweetie and decorate pottery at Painted by Hue. After selecting pottery from an assortment of styles, show off your artistic skills while painting your new masterpiece. “[We] provide a relaxed, casual and creative atmosphere for date night, allowing couples to create gifts of art from the heart,” says Gisela Rogero, owner of Patined by Hue in Waterford Lakes. On Saturday, February 12, join in on a special reservation only Sweethearts Date Night.

“Couples will receive a Painted by Hue personalized keepsake and enjoy their choice of chocolates & berries or cheese & crackers and are welcome to bring in their own favorite beverage,” says Rogero.

Looking for a night out that will be sure to strike up good conversation? The “Valentine’s Couples Special” at Firkin and Kegler, may be right up your alley. “Each couple will have the opportunity to enjoy two bowling games each, two pairs of rental shoes and one pitcher of soda or beer for $25 plus tax,” says Sarah Aviles, from the events department of Firkin and Kegler. Couples from young lovebirds to the merely young at heart can take advantage of this promotion on Valentine’s Day from 5:00 p.m. to close.

Don’t miss the opportunity to take a journey down the Winter Park Chain of Lakes during “Love on the Water Week.” Reminisce over fond memories during a two and a half hour trip on the water, including a serene lakeside picnic including bubbly and chocolates. “Our Valentine’s Day special is one of the best kept secrets in Central Florida because planning an outdoor adventure can really enhance your relationship by working together and exploring new sights and creating special moments,” says Lauren Postal, owner of Peace of Love Kayaking. Each trip guarantees plenty of towering cypress trees, lush ferns, a variety of flourishing flowers and breathtaking views of exquisite estates. “This is truly an amazing chance to see central Florida at its finest,” adds Postal.

Or you could appreciate the arts with your darling during the annual Central Florida ArtsFest. “This year, ArtsFest offers you the chance to leave your typical dinner and a movie date behind and celebrate Valentine’s Day enjoying unique love-themed performances for free,” says Emma Kruch, communications manager, United Arts of Central Florida.

Watch three actors play fifteen characters, in five restaurants, on one fateful night in the off-Broadway hit, First Course Love. “The arts in Central Florida are abundant with hundreds of quality organizations big and small - there’s something for every taste and pocketbook,” says Kruch. This year, consider tossing aside old, recorded soundtracks, for an evening of live music conducted by the Orlando Concert Band. “More than flowers, better than chocolates - That’s Amore,” she says.

Why settle for a traditional dinner and a movie date night? Add a twist to your Valentine’s Day this year with a little sugar and spice and everything nice!

Article by Carol Galbicsek

How do we get our children to grow up with a healthy lifestyle? Certainly parents have an influence over this but many children seemingly spend more time in school than at home. So the question is: How are Orange County Public Schools contributing to the development of positive recreation?

Different schools may deal with this challenge in different ways, however each school must follow basic guidelines required by the State of Florida. Luckily, the emphasis on fitness and recreation remains strong. Physical education is treated the same way that math, history, English and other required subjects are - as part of a student’s overall curriculum.

Avalon Elementary School offers one example of how young students learn good habits. “Students in our Spring Musical Group work on singing, dance steps and movement three mornings a week,” says Principle Pamela Sanders. “During the school day, all students from grades Kindergarten through five have 40 minutes of physical education classes four days a week and 20 minutes on Wednesdays.” During these periods children are involved in exercise, team sports and physical fitness.

Before and after school programs are also available to all students for a fee. Children are encouraged to play and join after school clubs. “Also, an outside golf vendor is on premises one day per week offering paid lessons to those who wish to take advantage of them,” Sanders says.

When students reach middle school they have a wider variety of athletics to choose from. “During the regular school hours, students take fitness classes every day throughout the year,” says Judith Frank, principle at Avalon Middle. “Competitive team sports in soccer, volleyball, basketball and track and field are free to students who participate,” Frank says. In order to cover costs, spectators pay an admission charge of $3 at the gate. Other funds are raised through the concession stands, which is a fairly common practice throughout Orange County.

All middle schools have after school programs that feature organized recreational activities and team sports. Each school has a partnership with either a YMCA or a Boys and Girls Club. These organizations are funded by grants through the Citizens Commission for Children. Although the amount of the grants has been reduced, the variety of activities is diverse and every middle school is involved.

Requirements are a little different in high school where they are reduced to only one semester of ‘phys ed’ per year for each student. Various schools may include a choice of different programs to meet this standard. A typical example would be at University High School (UHS). “We have aerobics, weight lifting, tennis and team sports on our campus,” says Deborah DeJesus, resource teacher at UHS. “There are a total of 23 after school team sports for male and female students including cross country, lacrosse, bowling, cheerleading as well as basketball, baseball and football.”

Outside of the school setting, the county has also done its part to increase fitness levels of area children. There are six Junior Magic gymnasiums around the county, five of which were built by the Orlando Magic as part of an agreement for the new Amway Center. The program is coordinated by the director of Orange County Parks and Recreation and staffed by volunteers. Children of all ages are welcome to join with fees starting as low as $30 for an eight week season. Many partners and non-profit organizations offer scholarships as well. Team members receive a reversible jersey, a ticket to a Magic home game, posters, certificates and other souvenirs.

“The league outing to a Magic game usually is considered the highlight of the Junior Magic membership,” says Antonio Perez, Junior Magic camp supervisor. “Throughout the season Junior Magic teams are sometimes even invited to play an exhibition game on the arena floor during halftime at a Magic game.”

Even amid budget cuts, whether it’s in schools or part of an extracurricular activity, the level of children’s fitness continues to be a pressing issue facing Orange County. Luckily, there are programs and initiatives designed to help with just that.

Article by Susan Cross

When Mark King graduated from high school he was 5 feet 3 inches tall, unathletic and just plain used to getting cut from basketball teams. But he also had NBA aspirations, incredible drive and an unwavering passion for the sport.

“I never understood why I loved something so much, but never got a shot,” King says.

As King grew older and up - he’s now 5 feet 11 inches - various opportunities started to present themselves. He is now the co-owner, president and head coach of the Florida Flight Basketball team that has recently moved to Avalon from Kissimmee. The Florida Flight Basketball team is a part of the Continental Basketball League (CBL) and will start its second season sometime in April or May.

“There’s only so much space in the NBA,” King says. “If you’re given a heart for basketball, you should be able to play basketball.”

After a 10-5 season last year, King and his team members are excited to be a part of the Avalon community.

“Community involvement is the root of our team,” King says. “And there couldn’t be a better community atmosphere for the Flight team.”

According to their website, the mission of the Flight basketball team is to “Utilize the platform of professional basketball to promote a positive, healthy, morally sound society that values the importance of teaching critical societal elements like teamwork, leadership, accountability and love and respect for others.”

With a bedrock Christian faith, King firmly believes that God purposefully places talent and ambition in everyone, and that it’s important to trust God’s vision.

It was this innate belief that kept King going through his early years of consistently being cut from teams and laughed at in high school for his NBA dreams. After graduating, King put his all into making it and ended up briefly playing at Pikeville College in Kentucky. He spent two years away from home playing in the minors, but when his wife became pregnant he knew he needed to settle down and find a new way to make his dreams come true.

“I realized that I’m a husband, and I was about to be a father,” King says. “So I just said, ‘Well, let me see if I can start something at home.’ And I did.”

Though Avalon doesn’t have a civic center for the Flight team to play at, Avalon Middle School offered their gym as a location for games.

With several months to prepare for its second season, the Flight team is still staying active in other ways - especially community involvement. The team participated in Avalon Aglow in December as well as other various community events.

“We really love the idea of being in Avalon,” King says. “My players feel like pros, like role models. They’re able to be seen in the public and reach out to the kids. We want to invest in the youth - if we want to make a difference in this world, we have to invest in the kids. We have to provide something for kids to do on the weekend that’s a good, positive environment for them to be in.”

Rabon Smith, General Manager of the Florida Flight team, is looking forward to the positive impact he hopes the Flight will have in the community.

“Moving to Avalon Park has been great,” Smith says. “We have visited with many of the local businesses and everyone has been very positive about having a professional basketball team in the community. We hope to provide fun, affordable, family entertainment to the people of Avalon Park and to become the team the whole community can rally behind.”

In the months leading up to the start of the season, the Flight team will continue to be active in various community events and programs. They’ve recently partnered with Avalon Dance Company and begun a Junior Flight Attendants Program. The team has plans to start a Scout League in February and begin filling out the remaining roster spots. The team is also looking for volunteers from the community and various ways to serve Avalon.

“The real championship for our team is off the court,” King says. “I’d rather make a positive impact in the lives of our community members than win every game.”

Article by Katelyn Schmidt

Dr. Bradd Burkhart is the newest sports medicine specialist and board certified orthopaedic surgeon to join the Orlando Orthopaedic Center practice. Treating everyone from weekend warriors to the players of the Cincinnati Bengals, Dr. Burkhart has a wealth of experience treating sports injuries, particularly in the knee and shoulder.

He has been awarded honors such as first place in the Florida Orthopedic Society Resident Research Competition and Orlando Regional Medicine Department of Orthopedic Surgery Research Award.  He has been published in several respected orthopedic journals.  Dr. Burkhart is also a current reviewer for the American Journal of Sports Medicine. Recently he moved to Winter Park with his wife and their young son.

Below are some of the more common questions Dr. Burkhart hears during this time of year regarding recreational and spring sports injuries.

1.       What are some of the most common injuries you see from a recreational sports standpoint?

Some of the most common injuries we see during this time of year are overuse injuries, which typically are the non-surgical injuries. Tendonitis and various strains become more common as patients venture back into their activities in the New Year.  As far as surgical issues are concerned, common injuries include meniscal tears, rotator cuff tears and tears of the anterior cruciate ligament, just to name a few.

2.       Does any sport in particular tend to standout during this time of year? What about age group?

In younger children, middle and high school aged boys and girls, a variety of injuries come about as spring sports kick into gear. Most of the football injuries are tapering down now, but they pick back up in early August when tryouts begin.  More mature athletes suffer from a variety of injuries as well.

3.       If I think I’ve been injured, what should I do?

If you think you’re injured, the best thing to do is rest the area that’s hurting. Elevate and compress it using an Ace wrap. It’s ok to use ice in this situation as well. If you have trouble bearing weight, that will require immediate medical attention; but if it feels more like a strain or a pull that seems to linger, you should consult with a specialist just to be on the safe side, depending on the amount of pain you’re in. The goal is to get back to your activities as quickly and safely as possible.

4.       How long should I wait for an injury to heal before visiting a doctor?

As a sports medicine doctor, I see a variety of injuries, from those occurring within hours to the injury that has been nagging for months. If it’s something that’s more chronic and it doesn’t respond to over-the-counter medicines, icing and resting and it lasts more than a few days, I’d recommend coming in to see a physician. Something that’s very minor could turn into a bigger problem if it’s not taken care of. There’s no need to try and “tough something out” if you’re unsure or uncomfortable.

5.       What are some common injuries that are misdiagnosed and why?

Misdiagnoses can really occur in any part of the body. Patients will often present with injuries or strains of the shoulder and they can be diagnosed with a sort of catch-all phrase called “impingement.” But there a lot of things in the shoulder that can cause pain and should evaluated by a professional. Sports medicine specialists are highly trained to accurately diagnose these types of injuries so they’re able to find the root of the problem and provide a treatment solution.

6.       What should I do to avoid injuries while playing sports?

Some of the most important things to help avoid injuries are stretching and warming-up properly prior to any type of sporting activity. The injuries we commonly see are a result of strains or pulls and that has a direct correlation to whether or not your muscles and your body are ready to participate in the activity that you’re getting set up for. Take a few minutes and make sure to stretch all the major muscle groups to help avoid any unnecessary injuries.

Would You Like More Information?

If your question was not answered or you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Burkhart, contact Orlando Orthopaedic Center today. Dr. Burkhart sees patients of the center’s Lake Mary, Sand Lake and main downtown office locations.

Orlando Orthopaedic Center

25 W. Crystal Lake Street, Ste. 200

Orlando, FL 32806

407-254-2500

www.OrlandoOrtho.com