It lists more than 125 events, from Mothers of Pre-Schoolers to Farmers Markets to Kids-Eat-Free days to free educational seminars on financial planning.

It's not something for everyone. It's a lot of somethings for everyone.

Kids R Kids, Avalon Dance and Avalon Music are offering an after-school enrichment program for kids that's a bigger treat for working parents: kids get to explore and expand their minds with no stress and no extra cost. The Avalon Veterinary Clinic is posting wellness hours for pets. Papa Gio's is hosting Karaoke Night.

Avalon Park Garden Club---newbies welcome---is learning about backyard tomatoes. The Avalon Park Business Referral Group is hosting businesses from Stoneybrook, Eastwood and other neighborhoods in a local network.

Okay, and there's Monday Night Football, Happy Hour, church groups and Movies Under the Stars---tell me you can't find something entertaining.

Fifteen years ago Avalon Park was conceived as a community where East Orlando neighbors could enjoy shopping, dining, services, schools, and recreational and leisure opportunities without sacrificing convenience, safety and hometown familiarity.

That was then. This is now, and it's way better.

Fresh young faces and vibrant new ideas are coloring Downtown Avalon Park with creativity and excitement.

Convenience? Safety? Hometown familiarity?

It's all there, but so is a lot more: a unique cultural environment that's authentic East Orlando.

You're the biggest part of it. You and more than 30,000 East Orlando families are turning Downtown Avalon Park into a unique East Orlando cultural hub.

In May, when the Innovation Way Connector Road opens, thousands more families will join us.

You're helping to create thriving community of innovative shopkeepers, restaurateurs, service providers and neighborhood businesses who are staging, sponsoring and promoting community events, offering cool discounts, specials and sales, even after-school enrichment programs for kids.

Next time you feel an urge to "run to the store" or do a "night on the town," think about your local merchants first. Downtown Avalon Park---it's safe, convenient and hometown close.