Windermere ALF Prepares for Grand Opening

This Assisted Living Facility is complete and we are now preparing for the grand opening.

Walt Disney's Role as a Real Estate Developer

 Most people know Walt Disney as a creative visionary, but have you ever considered his role as a real estate developer? He built the first Disney theme park with zero real estate development experience. How did he manage this? 

First, he came up with the idea of a Disney theme park because he did not like the amusement parks available. He would take his own daughters to these parks and found them to be dirty and distasteful for families. He recognized a need in the market and wanted to fill that gap for children and families. 

His idea was originally rejected by Disney executives, his own brother, and banks. He could not secure financial backing to support his fantastical idea. So, he put some money to gather himself and hired a team to begin working on the project. He started with a team of creative types who could turn his vision into reality. 

Then, he sought the assistance of researchers to determine If the park would be profitable and where the best location would be for the park. The numbers determined that the park would, in fact, have significant profit potential. So, he pushed forward and had the Stanford group examine numerous factors such as demographic statistics, urban growth trends, population concentrations, traffic patterns, freeway construction, availability of experienced commercial contractors, weather conditions - They found a best-suited location in Anaheim, a rapidly growing town just southeast of Los Angeles. Disney eventually purchased a 160-acre orange grove alongside the new Santa Ana freeway. This put the park only 27 minutes from downtown LA. 

With the location and financing in place, he began construction. Joe Fowler would oversee all commercial contractors and construction. The park became the cornerstone of Disney’s fortune.

The moral of the story is that with ambition and vision, a person can accomplish virtually anything. It’s often a matter of hiring people who can gather the necessary knowledge or provide the service you need to help you reach your goal. You do not need to be an expert in everything because someone else is always available to hire in the areas you fall short. Walt Dinsey is proof of this theory. 

Latest Photos of the New Orleans facility

The Difference Between Open and Closed Adoption

A frequent question asked by those interested in adoption is “What is the difference between an open and closed adoption?” As a birth parent or adoptive parent, it is important to understand the differences between these two types of adoption.

Identifying Information

The primary characteristic that sets these two adoption options apart is information and how it is shared. In a closed adoption, identifying information about the birth parents and adoptive parents is sealed. This includes the original birth certificate. While both parties will have plenty of information about the other, it will not be identifying information. Things like last names and addresses are not exchanged. Open adoption on the other hand, allows for identifying information to be exchanged. This provides some level of contact between the adoptive parents and birthparents.

Contact

A closed adoption prohibits contact between the birthparents and adoptive family. In some cases, the adoption agency will facilitate updates to the birth parents. However, the birth parent has no direct contact with the adoptive family. An open adoption does allow for direct contact. The level and frequency of contact varies greatly depending on the circumstance. Generally, the terms of contact are worked out before the adoption is finalized. It could be one phone call per year or an in-person weekly visit. The birth parents and adoptive family negotiate the level of contact to make sure everyone is comfortable with terms.

It is crucial that you know which type of adoption you are seeking before you begin the process. Whether you are a birth parent or adoptive parent, take the time to consider the options. Once the terms are set and the papers are signed, there is no turning back. So, make absolutely sure you are comfortable with the terms and type of adoption you have chosen.

If you are interested in adoption, as a birth parent or adoptive family, Cliff recommends Destiny adoption services in St. Petersburg, FL.

Tips on Selecting a Triathlon Bike

There is no shortage of triathlon bikes from which to choose. Selecting the right bike is crucial in your success as a cyclist. There are a number of things to consider when seeking a triathlon bicycle. Here, Cliff provides some tips to help you pick a bike that is right for you.

First, it is important that you see the bike in person. While written reviews are helpful, they are not a replacement for first-hand knowledge. Triathlon bikes are often a significant investment. Take the time to go to local shops and look at the bikes. When you find one you like,take it for a ride to test it. Here are a few things you should check.

• Comfort- Is the bike comfortable? Pay close attention to your upper and lower back. Are you too stretched out? Are you too crunched up?
• Handling- Test the responsiveness of the bike. Is it overly responsive or not responsive enough?
• Shocks- Check to see how smooth the bike rides. Take it on the road and see if it is too bumpy of a ride.

Remember to factor in the cost of your gear. In order to stay on budget, include the cost of the accessories you will need. Prices vary greatly, so focus on the highest quality within your budget. The quality of your bike does affect your performance.

The most important consideration when choosing a bike is comfortability. You must be comfortable on your bike and be able to endure long stretches of time riding. Don’t get caught up in the little things like color and looking stylish. Performance and quality are the characteristics you want to seek.

Lakewood Ranch facility Completed

Palm Bay FL Facility

Sun City Center Completed

Facilities Completed in the Past Few Years

Hidden Lake 2013

Phillips Shore 2014

Recently Completed Facility

This facility was recently completed in Tampa, Florida.

Kenner Facility in New Orleans Update

 The  Kenner facility in New Orleans will be supported by over 1,200 85' structural piles. New Orleans is known for its unique culture. Building in this region is a truly interesting experience. 

Windermere Project Progress

 Updated photo of the progress on the  Windermere nursing home project in Orlando.  it is coming along nicely. We are happy with the progress on this facility. 

Understanding Foster Care and Adoption

Cliff Davis has a long history of supporting children’s services and programs, primarily foster care and adoption. These services are crucial to the well-being of our future generations. In order to strengthen society as a whole, we must raise strong children. It is safe to assert that most kids in the foster care system are at a disadvantage and need immense love and support. Adoption provides an alternative solution for mothers who are unable to care for their children. In both circumstances, raising children in happy, healthy, loving homes is the goal. There are some important differences between foster care and adoption. It is helpful to understand these distinctions.

The most notable difference between these two services is that foster care is temporary and adoption is permanent. Foster care aims to get children back into a permanent home as quickly as possible. Typically, this means returning the child to their parents or legal guardian. However, sometimes kids in foster care become available for adoption. Adoption is permanent. Once an adoption is final, the adoptive parents are forever that child’s legal guardians.

From a legal standpoint, there is also an important distinction between these two services. In a foster care situation, the birth parents retain parental rights. This means a foster parent cannot make major parenting decisions that require legal guardianship. This may include medical decisions, signing specific forms, changing the child’s name or religion and so on. Adoption on the other hand provides the adoptive parents with full legal parental rights. The birth parents cease to have any parental rights, giving all of those rights to the adoptive parents.

Both of these services provide significant building blocks in the lives of many children. The importance of these programs cannot be overstated. If you are interested in becoming a foster care parent, contact your local child welfare department. If you are considering adoption, as a birth parent or as an adoptive parent, Cliff recommends Destiny adoption agency.

Why Eat Kale?

Because health is important to Cliff, he has implemented kale into his regular diet. Typically, he drinks a kale smoothie every morning for breakfast. Kale has enormous health benefits. Here are just a few reasons to consider adding this nutrient rich food into your diet.

The Basics

1. Low calories - 1 cup = 36 cal.
2. High-fiber - 1 cup = 5 g of fiber.
3. No fat - Kale has zero fat.

Benefits

kale is loaded with vitamins and nutrients.

Vitamin K - Kale is high in vitamin K. This important nutrient assists with bone and blood health.

Iron - kale has more iron per calorie than beef. This is great for vegetarians or those who prefer avoiding red meats.

Vitamin A - High in vitamin A, kale is great for your vision and skin.

Vitamin C - This vitamin is excellent for boosting your immune system and metabolism.

Antioxidants - Antioxidants are a powerful method for preventing a variety of illnesses.

Lowers cholesterol - Because of the cardiovascular support provided, kale can help lower your cholesterol.

Kale is an easy food to add to your regular diet. It can simply be put into a salad or used to garnish a main course. You can also juice it or  include it as a smoothie ingredient. There are a number of tasty kale recipes available. The food we eat has a great impact on the function of our bodies. Consider eating kale regularly to enjoy these great health benefits.

Kids and Sports

Cliff encourages his children to stay active and healthy. Getting kids involved in team sports is a great way to accomplish this. Below is a photo of Cliff’s son at a recent end of season football banquet. Football is one of the many sports Cliff played throughout his life. He is still a huge fan of the sport and gets great enjoyment out of watching his son play.

Tampa, FL luxury estate

Cliff Davis purchased an abandoned home in 2010. It was partially built and had structural damage. He completed the construction and turned it into a gorgeous European inspired modern castle. It is an enormous estate located in South Tampa, FL.  The video shows the amazing completed project.

Exercise and Productivity

Cliff Davis is a busy professional based in Tampa, FL. In addition to a full work schedule, he has four children and an active social life. He is what many would consider a “highly productive individual.” He attributes much of his productivity levels to a regular exercise routine. By making physical health a priority, it improves all areas of his life. Here are a few ways that exercise can improve your productivity and overall well-being.

• Energy - Exercise increases blood flow to the brain. This improves alertness and energy. Energy plays a vital role in your productivity. A regular cardio workout is a great way to maintain optimal energy levels.
• Physical health - An active life requires your body to be in top physical condition. Exercise helps to keep your body at a reasonable weight and gives you more stamina to take on the tasks at hand. It also decreases your risk of injury and illness. Few things will slow you down more than being hurt or sick.
• Mental health - Exercise can play a significant role in your mental health. The brain releases serotonin during exercise, which improves overall mood. Mental health professionals often recommend exercise for those struggling with anxiety and depression. Having a positive attitude helps you stay productive.

Consider implementing a regular exercise routine into your life. Not only will it increase productivity, but it can have positive effects that reach into all areas of your life. It is difficult to perform at your best when your body is not in shape to handle the requirements of a full life.

2015 St Anthony’s Olympic Triathlon

Cliff participated in the 2015  St Anthony’s Olympic Triathlon held in St. Petersburg, FL. This event took place through the scenic downtown area. It started with a waterfront swim, then a flat and fast  bicycle route and ended with a running course known as a favorite to many professional athletes.Below are some photos of Cliff participating in the event.

Protecting Hospice

For the past several years, Cliff Davis has worked to provide high-quality living facilities for the elderly. As part of his involvement, he has come to realize the importance of hospice care. With recent budget cuts to hospice programs, the need for support is now crucial. Hospice programs are experiencing an increasing need for both financial support and volunteers. Here are just a few of the primary reasons we need to support and protect hospice care programs.

The Numbers

The estimated number of people living with at least one chronic illness by the year 2020 is 157 million. Currently, 7 out of 10 americans die from a chronic disease. The cost of caring for these individuals is exceedingly high. Hospital bills can be overwhelming for a family. Hospice relieves some of the financial burden.

Comprehensive Care

Hospice care provides a comprehensive plan for the patient. A team of healthcare professionals work together to create the most comfortable circumstance for the patient. There is heavy focus on comfort and pain relief. Hospice workers include the family and address their emotional anxieties as well.

The Patient

The most important part of hospice is that it allows the patient to be in a calm, quiet, and familiar environment. The patient’s wishes are top priority. In our final days, we all deserve this level of care and respect.

Cliff and his family encourage you to support hospice programs in any way possible. The recent budget cuts to these programs have been devastating. To learn more about how you can help, visit the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization.

Kenner Assisted Living Center

These are photos of the Kenner Assisted Living Center. It is located in Kenner, Louisiana, it will have 128 rooms and 150 beds upon completion.

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