Celebrating Partnerships That Strengthen Our Community

College students sometimes ask me for career and life advice. No matter what they are studying, and no matter what their goals and dreams may be, my advice is often the same: go to Asia, explore Asia, and if possible, live in Asia for some time.

Today, Asia represents around 60% of the world’s population, while the U.S. population amounts to about 4.3% of the world. That alone demonstrates how significant Asia is for all of us.

Over the years, I have found that the most important ingredients for happiness, prosperity, and peace are relationships. Understanding the needs, hopes, and dreams of others, many of whom come from different cultural, religious, and economic backgrounds, is key to peace and to giving every family a chance to succeed.

By having friends and business partners in Asian countries, and by spending time in Asia, I have always learned a great deal.

As we celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in Avalon Park and across the United States, we are grateful for our Asian American and Pacific Islander friends and partners who help make our town the best place to live, learn, work, and play in Central Florida.

Two of our partners that have become a special part of Avalon Park’s culture are Gary C.K. Lau with Asia Trend and Mai-Huong Nguyen with Thuyen May Productions.

Through Asia Trend, Gary C.K. Lau has helped bring Asian American and Pacific Islander traditions to life in Avalon Park through festivals, music, and cultural experiences that have become beloved parts of our community. His work has helped create both celebration and understanding.

Mai-Huong Nguyen and Thuyen May Productions have also become an important part of Avalon Park’s cultural fabric, sharing the beauty of Vietnamese culture through performances, educational programming, and community connection. Their contributions have enriched our town in many meaningful ways. See Page 48 to learn more about both of these community partners.

Just as strong cultural partnerships help shape the spirit of Avalon Park, strong leadership helps shape the future of our community and our county. Community does not happen by accident. It is built through partnerships, shared values, and leaders who are willing to serve with purpose. It is in that same spirit that, with great respect and admiration, I am proud to endorse Stephanie Murphy for Mayor of Orange County. Please read her inspiring story on the next page.

Over the past 30 years, I have attended countless meetings with elected officials and candidates, whether they were seeking campaign support or asking for advice. In all that time, I have never met anyone more knowledgeable or better prepared to serve as Mayor of Orange County than Stephanie Murphy.

East Orange has real and long-standing needs. We need a true regional park, much larger than the 20 acres that have been promised to us for more than 20 years. We need attainable housing. We need more senior housing in Orange County, especially here in the East.

After many conversations with Stephanie Murphy, I am convinced that she will be an outstanding Mayor. As a mom, businesswoman, and former U.S. Congresswoman, she has built her life around service, hard work, and giving back to the country that gave her family a second chance.