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Keep Cool This Summer at AdventHealth Center Ice

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With the start of summer just days away, AdventHealth Center Ice is
the perfect place to escape the Florida heat.
Located in Wesley Chapel, AdventHealth Center Ice offers skaters of all
skill levels an opportunity to enjoy ice skating at the largest ice sports
facility in the Southeast.
One of the skating rink’s most popular programs is its “Learn to Skate”
series, which offers classes for recreational or competitive figure
skating and/or ice hockey.
AdventHealth Center Ice impressively has the largest “Learn to Skate” program in the state of Florida. In fact, last season the program had more than 415 participants.
In this series, there are three main classes: IC’s Snowballs, IC’s Skate
School and IC’s Hockey Super Stars 101.
The IC’s Snowballs teaches young kids from ages 3 to 8 the basic
fundamentals of skating, whereas the IC’s Skate Skool is for kids 9 and
older, and the IC’s Hockey Super Stars 101 is for ages 5 to 14.
“These classes are great exercise and teaches kids about working
together,” says Jim Charos, vice president of Strategic Initiatives for
AdventHealth Center Ice.
But the “Learn to Skate” series, which runs from June 1 to August 7,
isn’t just for kids. AdventHealth Center Ice also offers adult-only
classes every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. And, if you end up
finding you have a real interest/talent in skating and/or playing hockey,
you can join one of the skating rink’s 80+ adult leagues.
On top of AdventHealth Center Ice’s “Learn to Skate” series, it also has
its own development academy, Global Prospects Academy (GPA). This
academy merges traditional educational curriculum with on-and-off
training of hockey, ice skating and sports performance/recovery.
The educational curriculum is in conjunction with the North Tampa
Christian Academy, as some of its teachers come to the skating rink to
instruct the students.
GPA is for ages 8 to 17, and Charos says they are bringing in students
from all over.
“We have two kids coming in from California, and one coming from
Minnesota,” says Charos. “Parents don’t want to be driving their kids
all over town. Having their training and schooling all in one place is
very convenient for them.”
Besides offering fun programs for all ages, AdventHealth Center Ice
also prides itself on giving back to the local community. In fact, this
summer it will be focusing on its “Summer of Giving Back” series,
where a portion of money raised from themed public skate nights will
go to a different charity each month. The three charities are The Trevor
Project, United Service Organizations and United Way.
“We live off the community and want to give back to the community,”
says Charos.
For more information on AdventHealth Center Ice and its “Learn to
Skate” series, please go to AHCenterIce.com/learn-to-skate/.
Published June 09, 2021

D.R. Horton New Homes Coming Soon in Avalon Park Wesley Chapel

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D.R. Horton is now selling homes in Avalon Park Wesley Chapel in its all-new community ‑ Westgate at Avalon Park.

“We are kicking off sales in mid-June, but you can join our interest list to be the first to know,” said Courtney Creighton, the builder’s West Florida marketing manager.

The great room of the Camden model opens to the kitchen and formal dining room.

“We are not limiting the number of homesites we are releasing or can sell, and are not asking our buyers to engage in bidding wars for our homes. We are moving forward to best serve the needs of our buyers by making as many homes available as we can.”

D.R. Horton is planning to build 30 new homes a month in Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, with some homes expected to be ready for move-in later this year and early 2022. Home prices will begin in the low $300s for single-family homes, and the mid $200s for townhomes.

Initial sales will be conducted through D.R. Horton’s online sales team, and then move to the company’s sales staff working inside its model homes. Their model home will be open and staffed 7 days a week. Their townhome models will open at the end of this summer, and a single-family model, the popular multi-generational 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath Camden, will be ready early this summer. A grand opening celebration for Realtors will take place toward the end of the summer.

D.R. Horton, the country’s largest homebuilder since 2002, is building a total of 994 homes in Westgate, consisting of 768 single-family homes and 226 townhomes. Homesites are a combination of 40-foot, 50-foot and 60-foot lots, with many backing up to conservation and water. Construction is beginning with homes on 40-foot and 50-foot lots; larger homes on 60-foot lots will be released later.

In Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, D.R. Horton is offering homebuyers two series to choose from— Express Series and D.R. Horton Preferred Series.

Homes in the Express Series are being built on 40-foot to 50-foot homesites, and range in size from 1,408 square feet to 2,601 square feet. Floor plans will offer three to five bedrooms, two to three baths and one- or two-car garages, depending on a family’s needs.

The Preferred Series will include higher-end features and finishes. Homes will be built on 50-foot and 60-foot homesites and will be available for sale in the future.

Townhomes will include three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, and a two-car-wide driveway. Two floor plans will be available at 1,673 square feet and 1,758 square feet.

All D.R. Horton homes will come equipped with a smart home automation system called Home is Connected, America’s Smart Home®. Both townhomes and single-family homes will be built with concrete block on the first and second floors — a superior construction process. D.R. Horton is the only production builder that utilizes concrete block on two floors in its homes.

Westgate Village encompasses 285 acres in the back of Avalon, about a mile from its entrance on State Road 54, which offers residents a quiet, suburban setting. It will embrace its own set of amenities, including a resort-style pool, open-air clubhouse with an outdoor kitchen, playground, open sports field, and picnic area with pavilions.

D.R. Horton proudly operates in 43 of homebuilding’s top 50 markets in the U.S., in which it ranks among the top five in 31 of these markets. For more information, visit DrHorton.com, or call 866-475-3347.

Avalon Park Wesley Chapel is a 1,650-acre master-planned community designed to live, learn, work and play. At build out, it will have about 4,400 single and multi-family residences and be home to 10,000 residents. It’s downtown will have more than 560,000 square feet of retail and 130,000 square feet of mixed-use commercial space and apartments built above the storefronts. For more information, visit AvalonParkWesleyChapel.com, or call 813-783-1515.

Published May 26, 2021

Be Ready to Buy in Today’s Competitive Real Estate Market

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Anyone thinking about buying a home these days knows it’s a very robust and competitive real estate market. In Tampa Bay, single-family home sales in particular are booming as people from all over the United States move to Pasco County to pursue their dream home in a less-crowded region that boasts great weather and healthier lifestyles.

Many new homebuyers are selecting ICI Homes as their builder because they are able to customize their home and have it ready in as little as eight months — the same length it takes most national production builders to complete a home.

Here are some tips from ICI Homes to help streamline home-buying goals, especially amid so much competition from other hopeful buyers.

Build rather than buy
This is the best way to get the new custom Florida home. If you’ve begun researching existing homes for sale, you probably know it’s a seller’s market, which means there are more buyers than there is home inventory.

Don’t get trapped in bidding wars! Instead, buy a homesite and build the customized floor plan that’s right for your household, and avoid the uncertainty and hassles that come with a seller’s market.

Of course, there will be a wait while your home is being built. But that gives you more time to sell your current home, de-clutter all that stuff you’ve been putting off, and prepare and plan for the move to your new home.

Building a new home gives you control — you can choose the community, homesite and floor plan best for you, rather than settling for someone else’s tastes. Plus, every prospective ICI Homes customer can take advantage of a complimentary customization consultation with a talented floor plan designer.

Get pre-approved for a mortgage
Before you do anything else, get pre-approved for a mortgage. Unless you’re a cash buyer, this is where you should always begin.

Being pre-approved determines what priced home you can afford, so you don’t waste time with homes that aren’t a match. When you find an inventory home or homesite that’s perfect, you’ll be all set with your pre-approval to make an offer, before a cash buyer swoops in with an instant sale.

Do your research
Once you’re pre-approved, decide which community is best for your family. In Pasco County, ICI Homes has homes in three master-planned communities: Asturia in Odessa, Persimmon Park in Wesley Chapel, and Lake Jovita Golf and Country Club in Dade City. There are inventory homes and beautiful lots available in all three communities.

Start your search on the ICI Homes website, which is stocked with 3D virtual tours, photo galleries, interactive floor plans and much more. Online sales staff can answer your questions, get you the information you need and connect you with an ICI Homes community sales associates.

Much like a mortgage pre-approval, know what floor plan you want, the community you prefer, your purchase budget, and key information about the surrounding area. And then, there will be have much less hemming, hawing and debating when it’s time to move forward with a contract.

Don’t be afraid to make quick decisions
In today’s market, the home or homesite you were touring today might not be there tomorrow. You may have to decide quickly to go into contract once you find the perfect inventory home or homesite. But, if you’re prepared, it makes the decision that much easier.

Homes are selling quickly, so you should be prepared to make a quick decision when you find a move-in ready home. Fortunately, ICI Homes has inventory homes available, and is building more homes daily. So even though it is a seller’s market, your odds of finding a new home you love are much higher than finding a resale you love! And, you get the peace of mind of having a quality-built, brand new home.

Model homes in Asturia and Persimmon Park are open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m., on Sunday. All COVID-19 safety restrictions are in place. The Asturia model is at 2112 Secret Cove in Odessa, and the Persimmon Park model is at 3793 Lajuana Blvd., Wesley Chapel.

Call 813-252-1108, or go to ICIHomes.com, to schedule a VIP appointment for a new homesite in the Lake Jovita Golf and Country Club in Dade City. The sales center there at 12330 Lake Jovita Blvd., in Dade City, and its model home will open this summer.

Published April 28, 2021

Family Fun at Molly’s Hatchet — Axe Throwing, Virtual Reality and Video Games

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When the owners of Molly’s Hatchet axe throwing venue in Zephyrhills tell folks they are a family destination, they often get questioning looks.

“When people think of axe throwing, they assume our customers are young, athletic adults who also want a bar scene,” explains Shaun Sikat, an owner of Molly’s Hatchet. “But, we’re everything but that. We have created a fun place to go for families and kids to play video games, experience virtual reality and learn how to throw an axe so they can play games against each other, much like a family goes bowling together.”

This vision of giving local families and kids a place to go that is fun, safe, affordable and close to home is a bit unique in the competitive axe throwing world. But in Zephyrhills, it’s a perfect blend of activities and purpose that has made it a success.

New Location Is Twice The Size
Molly’s Hatchet has been so successful since it opened in 2019, that it recently doubled its size and moved up Fifth Avenue to a 5,000-square-foot building in the heart of downtown Zephyrhills. The venue kicked off its grand opening Easter weekend, and hundreds of area residents have come by since then to see the expanded axe throwing lanes, try virtual reality for the first time, and immerse themselves in a wide selection of video games.

“It’s been so much fun to have so many people visit us since our grand opening,” said co-owner Riley Payne. “There is something for everyone to do, even if it’s just watching others play.”

In addition to Payne and Sikat, the business also is owned by Chris and Rebecca Murphy, who opened the original Molly’s Hatchet in 2019.

“Zephyrhills is a small town, and like a lot of small towns with not much to do, it’s easy for kids to go down the wrong path,” said Sikat, who moved to Zephyrhills when he was 13. “We want to channel their boredom and energy, and offer kids healthy alternatives to keep them busy and out of trouble.”

Axe Throwing Is Easier Than You Think
When you walk into Molly’s Hatchet, the first thing you see are the impressive axe throwing lanes. Targets are made from pine and look like oversized dart boards. Up front are four single lanes and two competitive lanes, and in the back is a private lane perfect for date night or a small group. All lanes follow guidelines set by WATL — the World of Axe Throwing League, which governs urban axe throwing memberships in 19 countries.

“Throwing an axe is much easier than most people think, and your size and physical strength has little to do with how well you play,” explains Payne, a petite woman who is just 5 feet tall. “It’s more about finesse than strength, and it’s not unusual for a woman to outplay her man because she has better control.”

Learning to throw an axe begins with a 30-minute lesson from a professional axe throwing coach, who teaches safety, form and technique. There is always staff on site overseeing safety, giving instructions and teaching new games.

“There are no exceptions when it comes to safety – we do not hesitate to ask guests to leave if they are not following the rules,” explains Sikat.

All players sign a release, and safety rules are reviewed at every game. Children must be 11 years or older to play, and parents must be present and sign a release form.

Axe throwing is priced very reasonably — $20 for 30 minutes, $30 for 1 hour and $40 for 90 minutes. The cost includes all equipment and coaching, which is overseen by Manager Gavin Slater, a Navy veteran who has worked at Molly’s for over a year.

Virtual Reality That Blows You Away
Most guests begin with axe throwing, and then try the virtual reality, which is exponentially better than virtual reality games played at home.

“Most people have little experience with virtual reality and are blown away by the experience,” said Sikat. “Our simulation is unbelievable — especially Skyfront VR, where you actually feel like you’re flying 2,000 feet up in the air.”

Molly’s has two virtual reality seats, and you can play with, or against, the other seat. VR games include archery, Fruit Ninja and music-based games that are ideal for youngsters, as well as war games and even zombie horrors for adults.

Virtual reality also is very affordable, at just $1 a minute, with most games lasting between 7 and 14 minutes.

Both children and adults enjoy the arcade area, where games range from traditional Pac-Man and Donkey Kong, to race car driving and new high-tech games. All games cost just $1.

Weekly specials at Molly’s Hatchett include “SIN” Mondays, where employees in the service industry receive 10% off axe throwing and VR from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Later in the week is Throw It Out Thursday — all you can throw for just $30. Active military, veterans and first responders always receive a 15% discount.

Molly’s Hatchet has a large selection of craft beer, meads and wines. Food in its snack bar is pre-packaged for safety, and a 500-square-foot outside patio is opening soon that will have two axe throwing lanes, inflatable axe throwing for kids, a fire pit and outside seating.

“We welcome families to come to Zephyrhills and visit Molly’s Hatchet. We guarantee you will have more fun than you ever imagined,” said Sikat.

Published April 14, 2021

IERNA’s Happy Employees Create Happy Customers

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Since 2003, IERNA’s Heating, Cooling & Plumbing has generated hundreds of positive reviews and thousands of satisfied customers. In a highly competitive industry, the Lutz-based company has established itself at the forefront of HVAC and plumbing in the Tampa Bay area.

IERNA’s donated over 20 bags of clothing to AmVets, a veterans service organization.

For a company of fewer than 100 employees, what is the secret to IERNA’s success?

“Employee engagement,” says Charlene Ierna, owner and president of the 18-year-old company.

“We are known for our workmanship, customer service and brand,” says Ierna. “What many do not realize is the hard work and efforts behind the scenes to keep our employees’ morale and energy levels high.”

IERNA’s 2021 Chili Cook Off, from left: Anthony Becht, Veronica Alfaro, first-place winner Megan Schwarz, Charlene Ierna and Chad Wetzel.

When Ierna founded her company, her sights were set on establishing a company that really takes care of not only its customers, but also its employees.

“We foster an environment where employees have room to grow and thrive in a culture where they want to be. If your employees aren’t happy, how can your customers be happy?” asks Ierna.

Ierna’s management team believes wholeheartedly that their customers are only as satisfied as their employees. That’s why they have frequent company events where employees can take a break, relax, enjoy great food and bond.

Twelve IERNA’s employees made their own chili to be judged by local celebrities.

Through the years, IERNA’s has sponsored employee Christmas parties, other holiday-themed parties, cruises and random company outings, “just because.”

Most recently, the company hosted a Chili Cook Off for employees. The event was judged by three local celebrities and friends of the company: Anthony Becht, former tight end for the New York Jets and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers; Veronica Alfaro, former WQYK radio personality and voice actress; and Chad Wetzel, president of Carrier Enterprise Florida. Each tasted 12 varieties of chili to determine the winner of a $500 cash prize and lots of swag.

Leading up to Thanksgiving, the company held a ‘Pie Your Managers in the Face’ day.

Another fun event was a photo contest where technicians showcased their artistic talents by taking pictures of interesting air conditioners and ornate plumbing fixtures. The top five photos were canvas-printed and proudly hung in the main office for all to see.

“Employee engagement isn’t all fun, games and prizes,” said Ierna. “It’s also deeper and more personal, and includes showing appreciation, recognition and making sure employees feel involved in what’s going on in our organization.”

Research shows that employees are more motivated when they feel recognized and believe that the work they do is meaningful. “Our management team takes this to heart tenfold and makes it our duty to let employees know their worth,” said Ierna.

Encouragement and congratulatory messages are shared across IERNA’s emails, Facebook pages and internal newsletters. Employee are acknowledged when they earn a certification, on their birthday, to welcome a new baby and other personal achievements.

IERNA’s kicked off the New Year with a curbside blood drive, donating over 20 pints of whole blood.

Every time an individual technician is called out in a positive review, the customer service team adds it to the monthly “kudos” board. And, each month the technician with the most kudos gets a prize, their picture in the company newsletter and is praised all over social media.

Employees also value their company’s community support. This includes curbside blood drives, donating clothes to veterans, sponsoring little leagues and installing equipment for local community heroes.

“Employees want to be a part of a corporate culture that gives back and strives to make a difference in their community,” said Ierna.

All of this employee-focused engagement translates to satisfied customers.

“Who makes a customer feel more valued than an employee feeling the same way? Who gives a customer more legendary service than an employee whose company is constantly making sure their needs are met?” Ierna proudly asks.

Customer satisfaction is the goal for many companies. But at IERNA’s Heating, Cooling and Plumbing, its goal is employee engagement, because happy employees result in happy customers.

Published  March 24, 2021

Avalon Applauds…Nathanael Northey

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CONGRATULATIONS to Nathanael Northey, a senior at Cypress Creek High School, for being applauded by Avalon Park Wesley Chapel.

Northey has been involved in student government since his freshman year and served as secretary before being elected senior class president, which he describes as an incredible opportunity.

Nathanael Northey

“Whether it’s fundraising at a local restaurant, or selling new senior shirts, it’s a great feeling knowing that the ideas you come up with not only benefit the student government, but the school, too,” says Northey.

Being senior class president has been a fun challenge for Northey, and one that has improved his public speaking and communication skills.

“When I learned I got the position, I was ready to get the wheels spinning, thinking of new ways to get students involved with the COVID-19 pandemic present,” said Northey. “I never thought being class pres- ident could be so much fun!”

Northey is also chairperson for the School Advisory Council committee, sec- retary for the National English Honor Society, and plays on his school’s varsity men’s basketball team.

“Cypress Creek has been a great school to go to, and I’m so glad that I get to be part of its first full four-year graduat- ing class,” said Northey. “This milestone in the school’s history will always be remembered, and I am so glad to be part of it.”

Northey has had several mentors at his school, including English teacher Cassie Adley, who knew Northey as a great kid, but didn’t realize what a good student he was until he took her AP Language and Composition class.

“He is exactly what you want from a student. Nathanael is a student who strives to be the best. He is not shut down by constructive criticism; he truly thrives off of it,” says Adley.

Northey is grateful for Adley’s guidance. “She has helped me improve my writing to a level I never thought possible,” says Northey. “I don’t know what I’m going to do next year not having Mrs. Adley as a teacher, but one thing I do know is that she has prepared me to face whatever comes my way.”

Northey also recognizes his basketball coaches for teaching him the importance of teamwork, as well as Principal Hetzler- Nettles, Mr. Uchaez, Mrs. Larimore and Ms. Vaccaro for their unwavering support.

Northey plans to attend the University of Central Florida and major in Physical Therapy. With his passion for science and love of sports, Northey thinks this will be the perfect field of study for him.

Hetzler-Nettles says Northey exempli- fies Cypress Creek’s H.O.W.L. student mission: Have a growth mindset, Own your education, Work as a community and Lead responsibly.

“Nathanael is a student who is going to change the trajectory of this world – I can’t wait to see how he does it,” she says.

12-Year-Old Ronnie Ierna Dreams Of The Daytona 500

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Ronnie Ierna has been racing go-karts since he was a young boy. After many years of hard work and dedication, today Ronnie is one of the top competitors in Florida and recently was recognized for his outstanding performance at The New Year Shootout Race at the Florida Dirt Motor Speedway on State Road 52.

Ronnie Ierna (LMK Photography)

“Ronnie has been focusing on winning this race for quite some time now, and we are so proud of his accomplishments,” said his mother, Charlene Ierna. “He sat on the pole for all three races, and led every lap of every race to earn three first-place wins!”

Ronnie’s father, Ron Ierna, along with his mother, Charlene, support their son’s racing ambitions with encouragement and commitment. The sport is truly a family affair, with practice and races taking place most weekends.

When Ronnie is not racing his go-kart, the 12-year-old is busy as a top student at Pine View Middle School in Land O’ Lakes, where he is on the honor roll.

“Ronnie had volunteered at Lutz Elementary, before and after school as a safety patrol, and also helps out with community events, such as a recent trash collection drive,” said Charlene. “Most of Ronnie’s classmates have no idea that Ronnie is such an accomplished racer, because at school he is just a normal kid like everyone else.”

Ronnie is a member of the Lutz racing team, Team ERC (Eleanor Racing Chassis).

“He is fortunate to be part of a solid race team like Team ERC,” said Ron Ierna. “They set him up for success, week after week. Ronnie would not be where he’s at without his outstanding coaches.”

Ronnie Ierna driving at the Florida Dirt Motor Speedway in Spring Hill.

With his recent success at the New Year Shootout Race, Ronnie has moved up a class, and is now one of the youngest racers in this class. The entire Team ERC saw great success at this competition, with the team winning 10 out of 10 races.

“We really want to give a shout out to Team ERC, its coaches, pit crew, and all the parents and friends that support these young racers on so many levels,” said Charlene.

Because of his leadership and racing success, Ronnie has been featured as a guest on Last Lap Live, a live radio broadcast geared toward the go-kart racing sport.

Ron and Charlene Ierna are owners of local air conditioning companies. Both are very philanthropic and sponsor many local events. Since Ronnie was a preschooler, he has accompanied his parents and volunteered countless hours at chamber events, stuffing promo bags, collecting canned goods, trash pick-up operations, and many other charity activities.

Published March 03, 2021

Ronnie volunteering at a trash collection drive.
Ronnie Ierna placed first in three races at The New Year Shootout Race.

Avalon Applauds… Norah Catlin

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CONGRATULATIONS to Norah Catlin, for being applauded by Avalon Park Wesley Chapel.

Catlin, a senior at Wiregrass Ranch High School, picked up the sport of golf at the young age of 4, and has racked up quite the impressive resume of achievements since then.

(File)

She has been named the Greater Tampa Junior Golf Association’s player of the year, has won countless junior tournaments, qualified for the Drive, Chip and Putt Championships at the Masters — all of this was before her freshman year of high school.

When Catlin showed up for Wiregrass Ranch High School girls golf tryouts in 2017, it wasn’t long before coach Jeremy Calzone realized a special talent had entered the program.

“She’s definitely by far the best (player) we’ve had,” Calzone said.

Catlin is a three-time Sunshine Athletic Conference Player of the Year and four-time state qualifier.

This year, Catlin finished 30th at the Florida High School Athletic Association State tournament at Mission Inn in Lake County. Last year she tied for 17th.

Catlin hopes her accomplishments inspire her younger teammates and the next generation of female golfers: “Honestly, I really hope somebody sees what I’ve done and wants to beat it, because that’s how you get better.”

One of the top students in her senior class with a 4.5 GPA who takes a heavy dose of Advanced Placement (AP) and dual-enrollment classes, Catlin aspires to study political science in college and attend law school. She also is passionate about environmental issues, recently completing an online environmental justice fellowship amid the pandemic. Studying abroad in Russia and becoming fluent in the language are some other goals of hers.

Whatever Catlin winds up doing, Catlin’s high school coach is sure she’ll find success.

“She’s just a great, all-around person,” Calzone said.

In either case, golf will still be a lifelong hobby for Catlin, whether she’s playing competitively or not.

“It’s definitely going to be in my life, probably for the rest of my life,” Catlin said.

Published February 17, 2021

Is history repeating itself?

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I think 2020 will be a game-changer and COVID-19 will be remembered as a turning point that has served as an engine of innovation.

Under lockdown, e-commerce as a share of American retail sales increased as much in eight weeks as it had in the previous five years. As people stayed home, almost overnight businesses began to run from spare rooms and kitchen tables, an experiment that would otherwise have taken years to unfold, if ever.

While this disruption is in its infancy, COVID-19 is proof that change is possible even in conservative industries like energy, education or health care.

Beat Kahli, president and CEO, Avalon Park Group

The year 2020 was not only a turning point for Avalon Park Group, it has been one of our most active years ever.

Ask any of my seven senior vice presidents (we are working a combined 80 years together), and they all will tell you 2020 has been our busiest year ever.

And, it is just the beginning.

While we should always proceed with caution, I encourage us to take the turn into health and prosperity this year. I am hopeful the vaccine will succeed, and I am optimistic for a great 2021 and beyond.

Learning From History
I personally think that if one believes that the world is turning differently in these times and that we can’t learn from history, they are making a mistake.

Is it still relevant today what caused the downfall of the Roman empire, or can we identify something for today’s society when we analyze what factors led to the French revolution?

Winston Churchill warned the House of Commons not to think in the short term and to not just pay attention to headlines when he said, “Those who are not able to learn from history are condemned to repeat it.”

While that was 70 years ago, I think it fits the current social media age well.

This philosophy goes back even further, as Churchill borrowed his quote from the Spanish philosopher George Santayana, who writes in his book, “The Life of Reason,” that “Somebody who is not remembering his past is condemned to repeat it and paying a high price.”

This analysis is often used to analyze war activities. An example is the various wars of the different armies against Russia.

Sweden learned in the 17th century how difficult it is to win against Russia, how hard the winter is. A century later, Napoleon made the same mistake. And, in the second World War, history repeated itself when Germany lost almost 1 million troops by trying to take Moscow during the winter.

Often we are told that history is not so important anymore because the world is different than it was 100 years ago. But, even while new trends are developing, they can often be found rooted in the past because human nature has not changed.

We often think that this time things will be different, and while events from the past will not be repeated exactly, similarities between the past and present will always exist.

For myself, I believe in post-COVID-19, we will experience a new iteration of the Roaring 20s.

A hundred years ago, just ahead of the Roaring Twenties, was World War I. Additionally, 1918 to 2020, the Spanish Flu was infecting about one-third of the world’s population. After those horrific years, people around the globe were hungry to live.

The spirit of the Roaring Twenties was marked by a general feeling of novelty associated with modernity and a break with tradition. Everything seemed possible through modern technology, such as cars, movies and radio.

By the middle of decade, prosperity was widespread, with the second half of the decade known as the Golden Twenties. I think 2020 will be a similar game-changer and that COVID-19 will be remembered as its turning point.

And with those optimistic thoughts, my staff and I wish you a happy and health New Year!

By Beat Khali
President and CEO, Avalon Park Group

Published January 27, 2021

Art Lovers Invited To Join East Pasco Arts Committee

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Do you love art and also love your community? Do you live in Wesley Chapel, Land O’ Lakes, San Antonio, Zephyrhills or Dade City?

Then we have an opportunity for you to make a significant contribution to your community, and influence art appreciation and education in east Pasco County.

‘Under Repair’ is one of more than 20 of Lionel Sanchez’s painting that were on display at an exhibition that Sanchez called,”My World Through Watercolor.” The show was co-hosted by the Pasco Fine Arts Council ,and was one of many art shows the Council sponsored in 2020 at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel for East Pasco residents.

Avalon Park Wesley Chapel is spearheading a new East Pasco Artists Committee to support arts and culture in east Pasco. This group will work under the auspices of the Pasco Fine Arts Council, which in 2019 established the East Pasco Fine Arts Gallery inside the Welcome Center at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel.

To learn more about this opportunity, an organizational meeting is being held Feb. 4 at 10 a.m., at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. This is a hybrid meeting with attendance in person or via Zoom. For more information, please call 813-364-4918, or email Stephanie Lerret at  .

“We are looking for anyone and everyone who want to help with art programming and education for arts and culture in east Pasco County,” said Lerret, senior vice president of marketing and community relations for the Avalon Park Group.

The Avalon Park Group is committed to building a permanent location for the East Pasco Fine Art Gallery in its new downtown that is currently under development. Until then, it will continue to share its Welcome Center with the Pasco Fine Arts Council for its East Pasco gallery.

Since the gallery opened in the summer of 2019, there have been bi-monthly art shows exhibiting the works of local artists, as well as several workshops for beginning and experienced artists. When the pandemic changed how people could meet, the Council organized virtual art shows and workshops.

The Pasco Arts Council Inc., was established in 1978 as the local arts agency for Pasco County to encourage community involvement in the arts, provide art education to the community, and to be a leader in stimulating art and cultural entities throughout Pasco County.

From this Council sprung the Pasco Fine Arts Center, where artwork by local and renowned artists has been exhibited, and a full schedule of year-round art instructions (including visual and fine crafts), workshops, demonstrations and programs for children are provided.

For more information about the Pasco Fine Arts Council, go to PascoArts.org.

Published January 27, 2021