L.A. TIMES Lake Ashton Community Newsletter April 2022 Simply the Best! “ The Lake Ashton Performing Arts Corporation Presents THE 2022 COMMUNITY SHOWCASE see p. 24 Time After Time 4141 Ashton Club Drive Lake Wales, FL 33859 Lake Ashton is a 55 & Older Deed Restricted Community 863.324.6032 863.324.5457 www.lakeashtoncdd.com
NEWSLETTER STAFF Christine Wells Editor cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com 863.324.5457 Valerie McCutcheon Advertising Sales, Layout & Design valerie@lakeashtoncdd.com SUBMISSION GUIDELINES May Issue Deadline: April 13 • Articles can be submitted on behalf of Lake Ashton clubs/ groups/organizations to promote lifestyle enhancing, opportunities, and must be approved by the group leader prior to publication • Email articles to: valerie@lakeashtoncdd.com • 150 word limit. Articles will be edited for length and clarity • Include your club contact and phone number • The writing style is third person — avoid using I, me, my, we, our, or personal pronouns Photo Specifications: • All photos must be high-res digital images in “jpeg” format and submitted via email or CD/flash drive • Space will generally allow only one photo per article • The designer and printer will make the final determination as to the print quality of photographs for publication THE LAKE ASHTON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT DOES NOT ENDORSE OR SUPPORT ANY PARTICULAR POLITICAL CANDIDATE, PARTY, MEASURE OR ISSUE, OR ANY PRODUCT OR SERVICE. ___________________________________________________________________________________________ FRONT COVER PHOTO BY PHIL HINES BACK COVER PHOTOS BY DENNIS KRUPINSKI Clubhouse Office Manager: Sheila Moreland 863.324.5457 smoreland@lakeashtoncdd.com Clubhouse Operations Manager: Matt Fisher 863.956.6207 mfisher@lakeashtoncdd.com HOA Office (LW) Ashton Tap & Grill Golf Club - Ron Lavoie, General Manager Matt Auen, Assistant Pro Eagle’s Nest Vicki Moore, Manager RV & Storage Center 863.325.0065 manager@lakeashtonhoa.org 863.324.5810 ma2077@metzcorp.com 863.326.1032 863.326.1032 rlavoie@lakeashtongc.com mauen@lakeashtongc.com 863.326.1085 vmoore@lakeashtongc.com 863.326.1304 dholmes@lakeashtonstorage.com Police Non-Emergency Numbers: Lake Wales: 863.678.4223 Winter Haven: 863.291.5858 Polk County Sheriff: 863.298.6200 In case of emergency, dial 911 3 APRIL 2022 Lake Ashton employees are at your service. We want your experiences in the Clubhouse, Golf Course and HFC to be as pleasant and memorable as possible! Do not hesitate to contact any of the below with comments, questions or concerns. Lake Ashton Clubhouse 4141 Ashton Club Drive Lake Wales, FL 33859 Phone: 863.324.5457 Fax: 863.324.5829 Lake Ashton Health & Fitness Center (HFC) LACDD Community Director: Christine Wells cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com Clubhouse Activities Assistant: Caroline Lane 863.324.6032 clane@lakeashtoncdd.com 6052 Pebble Beach Boulevard Winter Haven, FL 33884 Phone: 863.595.1562 Fax: 863.595.1567 LAIICDD Community Director: Mary Bosman mbosman@lakeashton2cdd.com HFC Activities Office Manager: Krystle Funk 863.595.1562 kfunk@lakeashton2cdd.com Gate Houses & Security Officers: Thompson Nursery Rd. (LW): 863.324.7290 County Road 653 (WH): 863.318.0237
MONDAY COFFEE Don't miss Monday Coffee at 9 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom with your friends and neighbors. Bring $2 for coffee and donuts! LAVA Auxiliary will have red, white & blue bows available for purchase at Monday Coffees for $5/bow. Place these on your mailboxes and golf carts during ht month of May to show your patriotism and support for National Military Appreciation Month! APRIL 4 Birthdays and Anniversaries Featured Speaker: Polk County Fire Rescue Presents: Your Grandkids are Coming to Visit - Are you Ready? Featured Vendorr: Christine Graves Insurance APRIL 11 Bite Me Monday Featured Speakers: Caregiver College Introduction and Ritz Theatre Featured Vendor: Edward Jones - Matt Simpson APRIL 18 NO MONDAY COFFEE — LACDD Meeting Peanut Butter Monday - donations can be dropped off to the Ballroom Kitchen APRIL 25 Blast from the Past with David Harrison Featured Speaker: Small World Tours Presents Bus Trips for June - December 2022 Featured Vendor: Morgan Stanley - Matthew Grubb LAKE ASHTON II (WH) CDD Friday, May 20, 2022 9 am — HFC CIT Y COMMISSION MEETINGS LW: 1st & 3rd Tuesdays at 6 pm, Commission Chambers, Municipal Administration Bldg., 201 W. Central Ave., Lake Wales WH: 2nd & 4th Mondays at 6:30 pm, John Fuller Auditorium in City Hall, 451 3rd St. NW, Winter Haven POLK COUNT Y BOCC MEETINGS 1st and 3rd Tuesdays at 9 am Board Room, 330 W. Church St. Bartow IN THIS ISSUE NEWS 6 LA LOOKS 18 SAFETY 20 MOVIES 22 EVENTS 24 GOLF 28 CLUBS 32 MIND & BODY 40 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETINGS LAKE ASHTON (LW) CDD Budget Workshop April 4 at 10 am Board Meeting April 18 at 9:30 am Clubhouse Ballroom
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HOURS OF OPERATION CLUBHOUSE: 6 am – 10 pm, 7 days a week CLUBHOUSE OFFICES & ACTIVITIES DESK: 9 am – 5 pm Monday through Friday Photo ID Hours: Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 11 am to 4 pm or by appointment ASHTON TAP & GRILL: 11 am to 8 pm Tuesday — Saturday 3 to 8 pm Sunday First Sunday: 10 am to 8 pm with Brunch Buffet from 10 to 3 HFC OFFICES & ACTIVITIES DESK: 8 am – 4 pm Monday through Friday HEALTH & FITNESS CENTER: 5:30 am – 10 pm , 7 days a week NEXT MONTHLY MARKETS: April 13 and 27 10 am to 2 pm Clubhouse West Parking Lot RED ROOSTER PRODUCE & BAXTER’ S QUAL ITY MEATS Clubhouse West Parking Lot Wednesdays 10 am to 2 pm BOOKMOBILE April 13 and 27, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm (closed for lunch 12:30 to 1:15 pm) Clubhouse West Parking Lot 6 NEW RESIDENT SOCIAL The next New Resident Social will be held on May 11 at 2 pm in the Clubhouse Ballroom. Please sign up at either Activities Desk. IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY AT THE CLUBHOUSE No one plans on an emergency occurring while enjoying themselves at Lake Ashton, but should one happen, there are various emergency assistance items located throughout the Clubhouse that can help. The first step should always be to call 911 — remember, every second counts. There is an outdoor emergency phone near the East entrance gate of the Clubhouse, next to the large pool rules sign. This emergency phone can be used by all Lake Ashton residents, guests, and employees to contact 911 responders. The phone has a single push button, and an attendant will answer the call within 30 seconds to dispatch emergency responders. All dispatchers are CPR certified to assist with emergencies over the phone until help arrives. The emergency phone allows for automatic identification of the Lake Ashton Clubhouse address. T h e r e i s a l s o a n Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and first aid kit located next to the restrooms across from the Restaurant in the Clubhouse as well as on the roving patrol cart. It is important to receive training on use of an AED in the event of an emergency. AED and CPR training is offered at various times throughout the year and all residents are encouraged to take advantage of this life-saving training without having to leave the community. Stay tuned to media for information on the next training opportunity available. If you need help locating these lifesaving items, please ask a Clubhouse staff member.
LACDD NEWS By Christine Wells, LA (LW) CDD Community Director Supervisors and Staff wish residents a Happy Passover and Happy Easter. Staff welcomes guests visiting for the holidays and wishes safe travels to those leaving for the summer. Residents leaving can remain in touch with their community while away by reading the electronic version of the newsletter, participating in CDD and HOA meetings via Zoom, and keeping up to date with community happenings through news blast emails. For those remaining in Lake Ashton throughout the summer, Staff is working hard to create a fun summertime activities schedule. It is our goal that residents enjoy all that Lake Ashton has to offer with current friends while creating new relationships along the way. Be sure to stop by either Activities Desk to find out how to join a new club, group, or organization. There are a plethora of groups to join and activities to sign up for. We are here to help you live your best retired life! At the March 21 Board of Supervisors meeting a quote for stormwater pond repairs were approved along with quotes for landscape refurbishment at the Thompson Nursery Road entrance fountain and an area east of the Clubhouse Reflection Garden, bordering the Outdoor Pool. A quote to purchase two new ellipticals was approved so residents will have fresh, new equipment to use to stay active while escaping the warm, daytime temperatures. A wrap-up report of additional actions taken at this meeting has been sent out via email blast on March 26. If you did not receive this please send an email request to cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com. LACDD BOA R D O F SUP E RVISO R S CONTA CT INF O Robert (Bob) Plummer, Chairman Security, Operations and Staff 260-820-0389, rplummer@lakeashtoncdd.com Michael Costello, Vice Chairman Clubhouse Facilities including Outdoor Amenities (Dog Park, Pool, Sports Courts) 863-875-9228 or 732-718-7431, mcostello@lakeashtoncdd.com Lloyd Howison, Assistant Secretary Golf Cart Paths, Bridges and all Ponds 704-302-6555, lhowison@lakeashtoncdd.com Steve Realmuto, Assistant Secretary Budget and Finance 863-949-0304, steve.lacdd@gmail.com Office Hours: 2nd Monday, 10 am to noon in the Clubhouse Conference Room Debby Landgrebe, Assistant Secretary Reserve Study and HOA Liaison 863-268-8193, dlandgrebe@lakeashtoncdd.com Staff has installed new LED barrier gate arms at the front entrance. Effective now, anyone that hits a gate arm while entering and exiting the community will be charged a fee to reinstall or replace the arm depending on the severity. Please use caution when entering and exiting the community and remember to take your time. During this time of year Supervisors and Staff are actively working on the preliminary 2023 budget. Any suggestions for improvements in the Clubhouse or surrounding amenities should be directed to Community Director Christine Wells as soon as possible for consideration by the Board of Supervisors. A budget workshop has been scheduled for Monday, April 4 at 10 am.
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LAIICDD NEWS By Mary Bosman, LAIICDD Community Director photo: Dennis Krupinski April marks the end of the busy season here at Lake Ashton as many residents venture out on vacations and/or go back to their homes in the North. Although some residents may have their activities go on hiatus, activities will not be cut back during this summertime for the HFC sponsored events like Karaoke and themed dances. The popcorn and the ice cream socials will continue as well as seminars and other activities Lake Ashton residents have grown accustomed to. The LA II CDD met on March 18, and much was decided. The golf cart paths on Pebble Beach and Sawgrass will have flares where the cart paths connect to the existing golf cart paths. The Pickleball Courts will be resurfaced (all four of them). New windscreens have also been ordered for the courts. The LA II CDD approved a 50% supplement to the three wetland projects’ yearly maintenance costs. Both Winter Haven pet parks will be getting their grassy areas rehabbed. The HFC Rose Garden will be getting a face lift soon and landscaping will also be done around water lift stations. A survey to determine whether a memorial garden/sitting area is of interest to Lake Ashton residents will be available at both the HFC and the Clubhouse. The concrete along the side of Pebble Beach Blvd. (in front of the HFC) will be repaired by the builder by the time this article is published. I invite all residents to stop over to the HFC to check out our new flooring in the Sports Court, the Racquetball Court and the Fitness Center. They look and perform exceptionally well. Also, the LA Garden Club has given our indoor pool area a facelift with the addition of living plants with donations from Lake Ashton residents, staff and Swim Team members. Many thanks to the Garden Club and all who have helped with this project. The new pool bistro area is getting much more usage than that area did previously as it is much more aesthetically appealing than before the project started. Please check our calendar insert and stop over and say “hello” anytime between 8 AM and 4 PM Mondays thru Fridays! The next Board meeting for LA II CDD will be held on May 20, 2022, at 9 AM. Stay healthy and happy! LA II CDD B O ARD O F SU P ERVISORS CONTA CT INF O Jim Mecsics, Chairman - Public Safety, Security, Amenities and District Support Office Hours: Tuesdays 9:30 am to 12 pm, 863.875.4554, mecsicsj@msn.com Bob Zelazny, Vice Chairman - Golf Course, Pro Shop, Eagle’s Nest, Facilities and Field Operation Office Hours: Mondays from 1 to 3 pm, 863.325.8098, bzelazny@lakeashton2cdd.com Mary C. Clark, Assistant Secretary - Budget, Planning 252-503-7087, maryclark725@gmail.com Angela Littlewood, Assistant Secretary - Public Works, Special Projects Office Hours: Thursdays at 9 to 10:30 am, 352.250.9707, alittlewoodlakeashton2cdd@gmail.com Colette McKie, Assistant Secretary - Grounds and Landscaping, Transportation System, Office Hours: Thursdays from 1 pm to 3 pm,
I ONCE CAUGHT A FISH THIS BIG! When Is the Best Time to Go Fishing? According to almanac.com, the best times to fish are when the fish are naturally most active. The Sun, Moon, tides, and weather all influence fish activity. For example, fish tend to feed more at sunrise and sunset, and also during a full moon (when tides are higher than average). With that being said, we would like to see what fish residents are catching at Lake Ashton! Send a picture of any fish caught in ponds or lakes in Lake Ashton, along with your name, the lake or pond that it was caught in, as well as the type of fish caught and any measurements you may have (length and/or weight) to Valerie at valerie@lakeashtoncdd.com. You will be featured in the next edition of the LA Times. We would like to see your smiley face also so have someone snap a pic of you or take a selfie with your fish. Please refer to the Joint Amenity facilities Po l i cy f or t he po l i c i es regarding fishing in District owned ponds. Pictured here: Aidan Johnson, the 12-year-old grandson of Bob and Carol Seavey, caught this large mouth bass in the pond on the 11th hole during his February vacation. 2022 HOMELESS GRADUATING HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS By Doris Reisinger Many have asked the cost of the rolling duffle bag this year. The cost is $130. The check can be made out to Polk County Public Schools. So far this year the donations are behind so your consideration is appreciated. These are hard times for everyone especially mentally. You can imagine the difficult time for these kids this summer since all aid stops once they graduate. 12 What away to celebrate their accomplishment! Remember any amount of donat ion i s appreciated. Gift cards, for food/restaurant in $5, $10, $15 denominations are also accepted. A complete list can be found at the Information Wall in the Clubhouse or the HFC. Don't forget to sign the Congratulations banner at Monday Coffee! If you want to mail your donations in directly the address is Polk County Schools, Learning Support Division, Sunshine Committee, 1860 E Gibbons St., Bartow Fl 33830. Any questions contact Doris at 217-652-6636 or miker0343@yahoo.com. PO O L TEM P ERATU RE The Arthritis Association recommends a temperature of 83-88 degrees as the ideal temperature range for outdoor pools. Although staff strives to keep the pool temperature constant there are times when the temperature could fluctuate based on many factors such as air temperature, wind speed and humidity, all of which affect the rate of heat loss from the pool. Residents with concerns regarding pool maintenance should contact Christine Wells, Lake Ashton (LW) CDD Community Director, or Mary Bosman, Lake Ashton (WH) CDD Community Director for more information. PHOTO CONTEST The Fine Arts and Photography Show proved that there are many talented photographers at Lake Ashton. Have you ever just stopped during a golf cart ride and taken a beautiful picture that you thought nothing more of? Send it in for the chance to compete in a contest to be used as artwork in the Clubhouse Foyer! Submit your best photo(s) that signifies Lake Ashton living for consideration by August 31 to valerie@lakeashtoncdd.com. Each resident can submit up to three photos for consideration. Please ensure your photos are high resolution and at least 300 dpi. Information regarding the next steps in judging will be published in the September 2022 newsletter.
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JOINT AMENITY FACI L ITIES POL ICY HIGHL IGHT Each month an excerpt from the Joint Amenity Facilities Policy will be featured in the LA Times. This month outlines the policies in place for the Library/Media Centers at the Clubhouse and HFC. The full Joint Amenity Facilities Policy can be found online at lakeashtoncdd.com or lakeashton2cdd.com under "Additional District Documents". Any questions regarding these policies can be directed to Christine Wells, LA (LW) CDD Community Director (cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com) or Mary Bosman, LAII (WH) CDD Community Director (mbosman@lakeashton2cdd.com). LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTERS 1. There are two library/media centers, one in the Clubhouse and one in the HFC. They have books, puzzles, computers, tables, DVDs and an area for reading. 2. Books and puzzles are donated by Patrons for use by other Patrons. They may be removed but must be returned upon completion to either Amenity Facility. 3. District computers and their content, including email, are subject to monitoring and access by the District at any time with or without consent or prior knowledge of the user. The District reserves the right to monitor any use of network resources, to monitor computer and internet usage, including, but not limited to: sites visited, searches conducted, information uploaded or downloaded and to access, retrieve and delete any data stored in, created, received, or sent over the network or using network resources for any reason. 4. It is strictly prohibited to use a District compute for wireless internet access to seek, send or store Inappropriate Content (as defined herein) and/or for unauthorized copying of copyrighted material. Examples of copyrighted materials include, but are not limited to: commercial music, video, graphics, or other intellectual property. The Districts assume no responsibility for any damages, direct or indirect, that may occur from the use of its electronic resources. Users of the Districts computers and/or wireless internet access peruse the internet at their own risk, realizing the potential for accessing offensive, inaccurate, illegal, or fraudulent information. 5. The District reserves the right to revoke any User’s access to the Districts’ computers and/or wireless internet at any time. MEDIA CENTER COMPUTERS REMINDER Please remember the computers located in the Media Center are public computers. Residents should be careful when accessing sensitive information on these public computers. There have been instances where personal information has been left up on computers or printer, leaving it susceptible to being accessed by anyone. Safeguard your personal information at all times and please remember these are not personal home computers, but are accessed by many residents and guests everyday. Please note in the Clubhouse Media Center the computer closest to the printer is the only computer that is set up to print. ELECTION DAY APRIL 5 The Regular Municipal Election for the City of Lake Wales is April 5. There are two seats up for election: Seat 1, At-Large currently held by Mayor Eugene Fultz and Seat 4, District 27 currently held by Jack Hilligoss. Lake Ashton residents living in Lake Wales can vote in person in the Clubhouse Ballroom on Election Day or contact the Supervisor of Elections at 863.534.5888 to request an absentee ballot. The polls are open from 7 am to 7 pm. To find out more, contact the City of Lake Wales City Clerk at 863.678,4182, or visit polkelections.com. There will be no activities in the Ballroom and no movies shown. The Activities Desk will remain open from 9 am - 5 pm.
WILLS WHAT IS “BEST OF HAVEN?” Best Attorney TRUSTS ELDER LAW Each year in August The Haven Magazine asks its readers who, in their opinion, is the best in Polk County. There are over 100 categories, one of which is Attorneys. Readers must go to the link, find the category, and type in their selection. WE’RE GRATEFUL TO OUR CLIENTS WHO’VE VOTED US THE BEST! 15 863.676.6000 www.lakewaleslaw.net 240 E. Park Ave. Lake Wales, FL 33853 2021 Best Of HAVEN
The Pet Play Parks in Lake Ashton are here for pets to exercise and socialize in a controlled environment. Please keep in mind that owners are liable for the actions and behavior of their pets at all times. Please read the reminders below and contact Christine Wells at cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com for any questions or concerns about the Clubhouse Pet Play Park or mbosman@lakeashton2cdd.com if you have any questions or concerns regarding the Pebble Beach or Winged Foot Dog Parks. • All pet play parks welcome all sized pets at all times. • All pet waste must be cleaned up immediately by the owners and disposed of properly in the receptacles provided. • Aggressive or unruly pets must be leashed and removed from the parks immediately. • Pets are not allowed to dig holes. Their owners are responsible for immediately stopping the digging and refilling any holes with the sand provided • At the first sign of aggression or if a pet becomes unruly and plays too rough, the pet must be leashed and removed from the pet park immediately and banned for the remainder of the day. This will also cause a verbal warning to be issued to the owner by the Amenity Manager. • In the event the pet harms, bites or fights another pet or an owner, the pet will be banned from visiting the parks while other pets are present for a period of thirty days. • If a second incident of harm, biting, or fighting occurs within a six (6) month period, the pet will be banned from the pet park for one (1) year. LAKE ASHTON COMMUNITY ACTION COMMITTEE UPDATE By Kay Teehan Lake Ashton Community Action Committee is a group of volunteers representing Lake Ashton residents who are working to understand and communicate about the planned residential developments surrounding Lake Ashton, and the road construction plans that may impact the quality of life in this community. An update to this project has been posted on lakeashtonliving.com in the LA Community Action Committee forum. You can also email LakeAshtonCommunityAction@gmail.com if you would like to help in this project. VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION MONTH April is Volunteer Appreciation Month, and there are certainly many volunteers at Lake Ashton to recognize and thank! In appreciation for all you do, staff has organized a free giveaway once a week for the month of April. If you volunteer in any capacity at Lake Ashton, be sure to sign up for the following activities at the Clubhouse Activities Desk to ensure an accurate count for all giveaways. April 5 (10 am - 4 pm): Stop by the Clubhouse Activities Desk to pick up a sweet treat to show how much we appreciate all you do. April 11 (8:30 am to 10 am): We "donut" what we would do without all of you! Stop by Monday Coffee in the Clubhouse Ballroom — volunteers will receive free donuts and coffee! April 18 (10 am - 4 pm): Close your eyes and reach inside, Surprise, Surprise! Stop by the Clubhouse Activities Desk and grab a treat from our Surprise Bag. April 26 at Noon: Free ice cream social in the Clubhouse Ballroom, sponsored by Reliance Health because you all are just the sweetest.
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LA LOOKS LA (LW) HOA Board Of Directors: • President/Treasurer Bob Powant president@lakeashtonhoa.org • Vice President Debby Landgrebe vp@lakeashtonhoa.org • Secretary David Muller secretary2@lakeashtonhoa.org • Secretary Ken Rickey secretary3@lakeashtonhoa.org • Secretary Tom Hevel secretary1@lakeashtonhoa.org LA ( LW) HOA CORNER By David Muller The HOA Board of Directors (BODs) has been proactive in the st ructure of o p e r a t i o n s a n d bringing back the standards true to our CC&Rs. Do we have some "growing pains"? Sure do. Getting out of those pains takes time and finding tools to do just that. One of those tools is the management company, Don Asher Associates. The company carries out the wishes of Lake Ashton from instructions given by the Board of Directors. That is done at Don Asher's offices for administrative purposes and on site by the manager, Michellette Ramos. What does Don Asher Management do for Lake Ashton? Many things ... here are a few general topics (but not all): • Pay bills and perform multiple accounting services including col lect ion of annual assessment and make deposits to appropriate accounts • Inspect Properties for violations • Organize ARC requests for ARC approval • Establish property history on property changes • Maintain fiscal records of properties needed by mortgage companies • Perform office functions including mailing correspondence, violations and arrange to have liens placed on delinquent accounts • Help HOA with business meeting minutes and advise the BODs with current practices legal considerations Getting help from Don Asher is an addition to communicating with BODs. You can reach their office at OUR Lake Ashton HOA office: 863-625-0065. You can also email Michellette Ramos at michellette@donasher.com. As always, you can reach all the board members directly. Email for the BOD: directors@lakeashtonhoa.org. The board is always looking at options for easier record keeping and communication for the residents at Lake Ashton. This includes looking at software options, working with Don Asher Management. Additionally, the board is "fine tuning" the services from the company and looking for future benefits for Lake Ashton. One great thing about Don Asher Management is that you don't have to see the "sausage making" to keep Lake Ashton functioning. Please be assured that the BODs does that so we can all enjoy our community. LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS By Iris Realmuto, LW ARC Chair Interested in meeting and working with fellow residents to help maintain Lake Ashton as one of the premier 55+ communities in Central Florida? The Architectural Review Committee (ARC) is looking for volunteers to serve on the committee. If this is for you, please send email to ARC@lakeashtonhoa.org or call Iris Realmuto at 603-759-3513.
AQUATIC EDUCATION CORNER Wildlife Why does my pond smell? Why is our pond green and scummy looking? What you see is probably algae. Excess nutrients in the water combined with warm, sunny weather causes algae to grow rapidly. This can often lead to excessive algal growth, commonly referred to as an algae bloom. Is algae bad for the pond? Many creatures in the pond use algae as food. Algae is natural and does help break down the nutrients in the pond, however, too much algae may cause problems. Plants need sunlight to grow. When algae covers the surface of the pond, it reduces the amount of light that can get to other plants living in the water or on the bottom of the pond. This can prevent many native plants from growing and reduce the viability of the pond ecosystem. WILDLIFE ALERT - WATCH FOR ALL IGATORS Now that the weather has warmed up, coldblooded reptiles such as alligators can be more active. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reminds residents to be cautious when having fun in and around water. The FWC recommends keeping pets away from the water. For residents who have concerns with an alligator that poses a threat to humans, pets or property, call the FWC's Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866.FWC.GATOR (392-4286). Alligators and crocodiles are an important part of Florida's heritage and play a valuable role in the ecosystems where they live. Remember, it is illegal to feed or harass alligators. If you see an alligator: • Always give these reptiles a respectful distance — at least 10 feet — and always leave them alone. • Alligators are nocturnal animals, more active during the night. After dark, avoid fresh and Corner Photo & Article By Barbara Ann Comer The Sandhill Crane, the original yearround resident of Lake Ashton, is a species that one cannot overlook. Because the Cranes in Central Florida are non-migratory, residents can enjoy their life cycle. It begins with elaborate courtship displays involving spreading of wings, leaps and loud rattles. Things quiet down when the nest mound is built, usually in a marshy area and two eggs (typically) are laid and incubated by both parents for about a month. Since colts (baby cranes) are precocious, they parade after their parents the day after hatching. The parents feed them a diet of insects and aquatic plants, supplemented with yummy delicacies such as rodents, snails, frogs, lizards and snakes. Feeding Sandhill Cranes is against the law, gives them rickets (causing drooping bills and deformed legs) and makes them aggressive. It's best to just observe their life cycle from a distance, and not interfere. brackish bodies of water, though alligators sometimes lurk in salt water. Unprovoked bites will often occur at the edge of the water. • Never feed alligators; it encourages them to lose their natural fear of people. • Small animals, like pets, and small children are generally more at risk than large adults. • Female alligators protect their nests by hissing and opening their mouths; this does not mean they are preparing to attack. • Alligators under four feet in length are not considered a threat to humans.
SAFETY SPECIAL SAFETY PRESENTATIONS AT MONDAY COFFEE IN MARCH The Lake Ashton Neighborhood Watch “Meet the Police Chiefs Forum” took place at Monday Coffee on March 7. Chief Velasquez from the Lake Wales Police Department and Chief Brannan f rom t he Wi n t e r Haven Po l i ce Department were there to provide their perspectives and answer questions from residents. Then, on March 14, Grady Judd was the special guest speaker at Monday Coffee. MESSAGE FROM THE NW CHIEF Thank you to the police chiefs, public safety officers and groups including CAP, CERT, and the Lake Ashton Amateur Radio Association who came together under the Neighborhood Watch umbrella to make this presentation a great success. Neighborhood Watch continues to be a recognized leader helping our community to stay safe with a“Zero Tolerance for Crime” policy! - Neighborhood Watch Chief Fay Wood Citizens Assisted Patrol (CAP), pictured below, is always looking for more volunteers to patrol the streets. Also pictured, George Fetcho receives recognition for over 100 hours of service. Earl Hope, Edwin Ciesluk, and Mike Weissberg also received recognition. Come help be the eyes, ears, and presence for the Sheriff’s department. Patrols are once a week for two hours. Applications are available in the Clubhouse and HFC. For more information contact Mike Weissberg 863-324-3541 (please leave a message). 20
NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH By Fay Wood, NW Chief Driving Safety - We All Can Do Our Part Distracted driving kills an average of 4,100+ per year nationwide. Also 465,000 injuries occur! Did you know that distracted driving isn’t just texting? This can be any activity that diverts a person’s attention away from driving. Text messaging is the most dangerous because it requires visual, manual and cognitive attention. Sending a text message takes a driver’s eyes off the road for an average of 4.6 seconds and 4.6 seconds is the equivalent of driving blind at 55 mph for the length of a football field. The age group with the greatest proportion of distracted drivers is under age 22. In that group, 11% of drivers who died in a crash were reportedly distracted at the time of the fatal crash. NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH PRESENTS - IDENTITY THEFT, FRAUDS, AND SCAMS PREVENTION Neighborhood Watch welcomes Kathy Leigh from the Polk County Sheriff's Office Crime Prevention Unit to discuss Identity Theft, Frauds, and Scams on April 4 at 10 am in Ashton Tap & Grill. Coffee will be provided. Come with questions and learn about how to avoid becoming a victim. VIAL OF LIFE At a recent Monday Coffee presentation by Neighborhood Watch, the Vial of Life was presented by the Polk County Sheriff’s Department. This nationally recognized medical program is designed to aid emergency medical personnel by providing an individual's pertinent medical information. This information is readily available to emergency personnel, in the event you are unable to speak for yourself, or a member of your household is unable to speak for themselves. The program consists of a plastic vial, one sticker, and a medical form for each person in the household and is available free to the public. The medical form includes name, address, date of birth, emergency contact, allergies prescriptions, current medical status, physician's name and location. The completed medical forms are inserted into the capped vial, and placed on the upper righthand corner of the top shelf inside your refrigerator or placed in the refrigerator door, top shelf. The Vial of Life Sticker is attached to the outside of the refrigerator door. The sticker alerts emergency personnel of the completed vial's existence. (Please remember to print all information legibly and keep the information updated and current.) For more information on this program, please contact Crime Prevention at 863-298-6677. 21 All vehicles, including golf carts, must obey all stop signs and the 20 mph speed limit throughout Lake Ashton. Drivers, watch for pedestrians at all times. Obeying posted speed limit and traffic signs can help avert a potential tragedy.
MOVI ES ALL TUESDAY SHOWINGS ARE CLOSED CAPTIONED. CINEMA CAPACITY: 55 APRIL 6 (No Movies April 5 or 7) 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM AGAINST THE ICE 2022 | PG-13 | 1h 42min E x p l o r i ng G r e e n l a nd ' s v a s t landscape for a lost map, two men must fight extreme weather, hunger, fatigue, and a polar bear attack to survive. Based on the true story of Denmark's 1909 polar expedition. APRIL 12 - 14 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM (No 7 pm movie April 14) NO TIME TO DIE 2021 | PG-13 | 2h 43min Bond (Daniel Craig) has left active service and is enjoying a tranquil life in Jamaica. His peace is short-lived when his old friend from the CIA turns up asking for help. The mission to rescue a kidnapped scientist turns out to be far more treacherous than expected, leading Bond onto the trail of a mysterious villain armed with dangerous new technology. APRIL 19 - 21 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM RESCUED BY RUBY 2022 | PG | 1h 30min State trooper Dan (Grant Gustin) dreams of joining the K-9 Search & Rescue team, but no one will give him the chance. Shelter dog Ruby dreams of having a home, but is running out of hope. When fate brings Dan and Ruby together, it's their unshakable bond that helps them face their toughest challenge yet. Based on a true story. 22 22 APRIL 26 - 27 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM THE ADAM PROJECT 2022 | PG-13 | 1h 46min A time-traveling pilot (Ryan Reynolds) teams up with his younger self and his late father to come to terms with his past while saving the future. Also stars Mark Ruffalo, Jennifer Garner, Catherine Keener, and Zoe Saldana. April 28 is National Superhero Day Enjoy a Marvel Movie Marathon! 11 AM: Black Widow PG-13 | 2021 | 2h 13m Natasha Romanoff, aka Black Widow, confronts the darker parts of her ledger when a dangerous conspiracy with ties to her past arises. Pursued by a force that will stop at nothing to bring her down, Natasha must deal with her history as a spy, and the broken relationships left in her wake long before she became an Avenger. 3 PM: SHANG-CHI AND THE LEGEND OF THE TEN RINGS PG-13 | 2021 | 2h 12m Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2h 12m) Shang-Chi must confront the past he thought he left behind when he is drawn into the web of the mysterious Ten Rings organization. 7 pm: Eternals PG-13 | 2021 | 2h 37m The Eternals are a group of ancient heroes from beyond the stars who have protected Earth since the dawn of man. When monstrous creatures called Deviants, long thought lost to history, mysteriously return, they are forced to reunite in order to defend humanity once again.
MAY 7 CLASSIC & SPECIAL INTEREST MOVIES ARE SHOWN IN THE CLUBHOUSE CINEMA ON FRIDAYS AT 11 AM (CC), 3 PM, & 7 PM APRIL 1 11 AM (No 3 or 7 pm Movie) APRIL IN PARIS 1952 | NR | 1h 41min Government office worker Sam Winthrop Putnam (Ray Bolger) mistakenly sends an invitation to a prestigious theater festival in Paris to New York City chorus girl Ethel "Dynamite" Jackson (Doris Day). Aboard the ship that is transporting the U.S. delegation to the festival, Sam falls for Ethel, even though he is already engaged to Marcia (Eve Miller). It will take the interference of Philippe (Claude Dauphin), a French entertainer also aboard the ship, to bring Sam and Ethel together. APRIL 8 — NO MOVIE APRIL 15 11 AM & 3:30 PM BEN HUR 1959 | G | 3h 42min Charlton Heston plays Judah Ben-Hur, a proud Jew who runs afoul of ambitious boyhood friend Messala (Stephen Boyd) in this 1959 epic that boasts an unforgettable chariot race and earned 11 Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Actor (Heston) and Best Director (William Wyler). Condemned to life as a slave, Judah swears vengeance against Messala and escapes, later crossing paths with a gentle prophet named Jesus. APRIL 22 11 AM & 3 PM (No 7 pm Movie) IT HAPPENED ONE NIGHT 1934 | NR | 1h 45min Runaway socialite Ellie Andrews (Claudette Colbert) is en route to the Big Apple to elope and along the way she meets 23 a crusty newspaperman (Clark Gable). A string of zany misadventures leads them to realize they're madly if reluctantly in love. APRIL 29 11 AM (No 3 or 7 pm Movies) SPIDERMAN: NO WAY HOME 2021 | PG-13 | 2h 28 min For the first time in the cinematic history of Spider-Man, our friendly neighborhood hero's identity is revealed, bringing his Super Hero responsibilities into conflict with his normal life and putting those he cares about most at risk. When he enlists Doctor Strange's help to restore his secret, the spell tears a hole in their world, releasing the most powerful villains who've ever fought a Spider-Man in any universe. Now, Peter will have to overcome his greatest challenge yet, which will not only forever alter his own future but the future of the Multiverse.
EVENTS TIME (AFTER TIME) FOR 2022 COMMUNITY SHOWCASE By Karen Nelson It’s finally time ... for Time After Time! Your friends and neighbors will stage the 2022 Community Showcase as follows: Opening Night — Friday, April 8 at 7:30 pm Saturday Matinee — April 9 at 1:30 pm with an extended intermission Closing Night - Saturday, April 9 at 7:30 pm Tickets for all three shows can be purchased at the Clubhouse Activities Desk until sold out! Premium seats are $20 and regular seats are $15. See you there! PASSOVER SEDER By David Harrison The Jewish Community of Lake Ashton would like to extend an invitation to come and share a Passover Seder at the Eagle's Nest on Friday, April 15 at 4:45 pm. A wonderful menu of garden salad, choice of pot roast or 1/4 roasted chicken, glazed carrots and roasted potatoes will be served. Coffee and iced tea are included for only $22/person. Matzoh, ceremonial kosher wine and dessert will be provided for each guest. Make an entree choice when signing up at the Clubhouse Activities Desk no later than April 5. Make checks payable to David Harrison. Call 863-326-6418 with any questions. EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE By Debby Landgrebe Rejoice and celebrate the blessing of Resurrection Sunday on Easter, April 17. Bring your golf carts, blankets, family, friends and neighbors. Most of all bring your heart prepared to sing praises to the Risen Lord and be filled with abundant joy! The service will begin promptly at 7 am at the Clubhouse garden/lawn overlooking Lake Ashton. Gather to hear a local pastor and sing wonderful Easter hymns. For those planning to attend their own church service, the Sunrise Service will conclude by 8. Seating will be available and an offering will be taken. Everyone is welcome, regardless of belief. There certainly are many reasons to be thankful. Hope to see you Easter Sunday, April 17, behind the Clubhouse in the gardens at 7 am. Any questions, contact Debby Landgrebe. TV TRIVIA Who said watching all that TV will do you no good? It could help you win at this month’s trivia night! Show how much you (and your teammates) know from all that time in front of the tube at TV Trivia on April 27 at 6:30 pm. Sign up at the Clubhouse Activities Desk. No more than eight to a team. 24
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2022 FINE ARTS & PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW Thank you to the over 500 people who attended this year’s show. Over 100 entries were on display by 38 participants. You all helped to make it the best show ever! The show couldn’t have happened without the hard work of committee members Ann Boogher, Nancy Hallfin, Sharon Makela, Lin Rogers, Steve Bachleda, Karyn Leighton, Marilyn Noffsinger and Larry & Joanne Hillock. Thanks go out to the many volunteers who helped make this show a success. The generous sponsors were Snowbird Heating & Cooling, inc., Boyett Family Dentistry, The Gallery & Frame Shop, Kevin Weltin State Farm Agency, and The Tessier Law Firm, P.A. Please mention your appreciation for their support when you visit their businesses. See back cover for pictures. FINE ARTS WINNERS Best In Show: Kim Konrad LARGEST SELECTION OF INDOOR & OUTDOOR FANS ANYWHERE! TRADITIONAL MODERN CONTEMPORAR ANS Drawing/Illustration 1st: Sharon Makela 2nd: Kim Konrad 3rd: Lin Jones 19999 Reno Ey Decor! $ Honorable Mention: Kim Konrad Painting (Oil or Acrylic) 1st: Kim Konrad 2nd: Marie Baral 3rd: Charles Inman Painting – Watercolor 1st & Honorable Mention: Barbara Staschke 2nd & 3rd: Sil Wells Painting (Mixed Media) 1st: Sharon Makela Design Y an Parts & Services Aailable In-Store Warranes Winer Haen 1104A Cypr d SE (Lampligh a) wancityom (863) 299-2777 26 PHOTOGRAPHY WINNERS Best In Show: James Campbell Things 1st: Stephen Bachleda 2nd: Beth Bule 3rd: Joanne Hillock Creative 1st & Honorable Mention: Ronald McKie 2nd: Bill Winchester 3rd: James Campbell Nature 1st: Pam Klawinski 2nd: John Chandler 3rd: Larry Hillock Honorable Mention: Dale Steenberg People 1st: Jane Storrs 2nd: Shari Gleber 3rd: Larry Hillock Honorable Mention: Sil Wells Pictorial 1st: Shari Gleber 2nd: James Campbell 3rd: Pam Klawinski Honorable Mention: Chris Reibl
2022 FEATURED SHOW TICKET SALES TOTALLY TUBULAR '80S PARTY 7 pm Showtimes: Premium Tickets: $25 Regular Tickets: $20 April 14: KAZUAL will captivate your rhythmic senses by blending harmonious sound with their intoxicating vocals and dancing on April 14! April 22: Travel back in time to the ‘60s with the PAISLEY CRAZE FLOWER POWER SPRING SHOW, a five-piece band playing the hits of the decade. May 6: JOHNNY WILD & THE DELIGHTS will pay tribute to veterans with STARS & STRIPES, a stirring evening of patriotic music, comedy, performance and spectacle. CAREFULLY CRAFTED Someone once said, “Beautiful things come together one stitch at a time,” and it couldn’t be more true. Women are works of art that are still in progress no matter the age. Every one of our Lake Ashton ladies are Carefully Crafted and are still beautiful works in progress. Celebrate the beautiful person that you are and are still becoming while enjoying an afternoon of friendship, fellowship, and food at the Carefully Crafted ladies’ luncheon on May 13 at 11:30 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom. A variety of wonderful local female-owned businesses will be in attendance for you to visit and peruse before lunch will be served. Each vendor will have a special offering for the ladies in attendance, such as Oasis Spa with some spa services, Avon with a basket full of products to raffle, and many more! Ashton Tap & Grill will serve a delicious plated meal consisting of a turkey and gouda croissant, primavera pasta salad, sliced fruit, and a beautifully crafted cookie for dessert. You can view an uplifting fashion show for women of all shapes and sizes put on by Michelle’s Resale Closet. Tickets go on sale for $17 on April 4 at Clubhouse Activities Desk after Monday Coffee. the 27 Women have unique health issues and some health issues that affect both men and women can touch women differently. National Women’s Health Week encourages women to consider factors that influence their mental health, such as managing stress, in order to ward off anxiety and depression. In addition to the activities below there are many free health classes and activities available to residents. Stop by either Activities Desk for more information on the classes available or take a look at the calendar inserts for meeting days and times. The following special activities will be held in the Clubhouse Ballroom: May 11 at 11 am: Exercise Bingo — Get your body moving and do the exercises to get the mark on your card. First one to get Bingo, wins. Refreshments will be offered. May 12 at 11 am: Tips and Tricks: Healthy Snack Choices (presentation and tasting) Both activities are sponsored by Reliance Health. Dust off your cassettes, tease up your hair, and be there or be square! Bust a Move and Get into the Groove at the Totally Tubular ‘80s Party May 20 at 7 pm in the Clubhouse Ballroom. Break out those old leg warmers and Kangol hats because this is gonna be one rad Celebration! We know you’ll be Hungry Like a Wolf after dancing All Night Long to the wicked cool music from a live DJ, so two slices of Giovanni’s pizza and an ‘80s themed snack bag are included with your ticket. Try the event’s signature cocktail, the Eye of the Tiger, at the cash bar. You don’t have to be Livin’ on a Prayer to get tickets; Walk Like an Egyptian or hop in your Little Red Corvette and grab them at the Clubhouse Activities Desk for $10 on April 11 after Monday Coffee.
GOLF LAMGA By Paul Fichtman LAMGA’s March was highlighted by the very popular 3-day Member – Guest tournament held from March 10th - 12th. The tournament was kicked off with a Pre-tournament Party consisting of Pizza, Wings, Hors d’oeuvres and beer sponsored by Chris Bruser, Reverse Mortgage Specialist – Mutual of Omaha. 60 two-man teams competed through 5 nine-hole rounds of match play for $2,400 in prize money. The top 3 teams in each of 10 flights won $120, $80 and $40 in Pro Shop credits per team for finishing 1st, 2nd and 3rd, respectively. The tournament included breakfast and lunch on Thursday and Friday and a closing Awards Luncheon on Saturday. Thursday’s breakfast was sponsored by Burris Warner of Amerity Financial. Snowbird Heating and Cooling sponsored a Hole in One contest on Friday for which the prize was a new, installed A/C unit plus they hosted a tent with free beer, snacks and beverages. Art’s Golf Cars sponsored Friday’s Closest to the Pin on all 4 par 3s: the four winners each won a $200 gift certificate for merchandise in the Eagle’s Nest or Pro Shop. Finally, Red Hoagland Hyundai and Snowbird Heating & Cooling sponsored a Closest to the Pin Shootout on Thursday and Friday, respectively. Each team that was closest to the pin in their Flight won $25 in Pro Shop credits. A list of all our sponsors, sorted by category, is posted on the LAMGA, Lake Ashton Living and Talk of Lake Ashton web sites as well as on the bulletin board in the Pro Shop. Please support these generous sponsors with your business when you are in need of one of their products or services. The LAMGA also wants to extend special thanks to all the wives who volunteered to help with the tournament registration and the Pro Shop and Eagle’s Nest staffs for helping to run the best tournament to date. April’s schedule includes: 4/6 – Best Net A&D, B&C; 4/13 – Pick Your Foursome, 1 Gross, 2 Nets; 4/20 – Pick 10 Holes and; 4/27 – Quota Points. LALGA By Lydia Fichtman Congratulations to the winners of the Ashton Cup. Your hard work paid off. April marks elections for two positions on the LALGA board. Sue Fitzgerald and Jackie Tressler are running for President and Margie Dersham is running unopposed for Secretary. The posi t ions are two-year appointments. Good luck ladies. Please remember to register to vote on ashtonliving.com. This month the Pink Ribbon committee would like to thank the following businesses for their donation in support of the past tournament. When in need of one of their products or services, please patronize them: Hampton Inn, Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grill, Haven Salon WH, Head to Toe Beauty & Wellness, Heart to Heart Fabrics & More, Heartland Insulation & Acoustics, Highland Ridge Golf Club, Highlands Reserve Golf Club, Hill Nissan, Home Depot, Hurricane Grill, Huston Cadillac, Indian Lakes Golf Course, Indigo Golf Partners, Integrity Homes & Construction, Jaime’s Collision Center Inc, JLC Management Inc, L’incontro Italian Restaurant, LA Resales, Lake Bess Golf Course, Lake Wales Chrysler/Dodge, Lake Wales Family Restaurant, Lake Wales Golf & Country Club, Laurel Oak Golf Club, Lavender & Lace Tea Room, Legends Golf Orange Lake, Little Studio Interiors, Living Water Boat Cruises, Golden Corral, Lone Palm Golf Club, Longhorn Steak House, Low Ball Louie's, Lowry Park Zoo, Luigi’s Restaurant, M & R Technologies and Maggiano’s. The following four women are the top money winners to date for The Red Hoagland Challenge: 1st Place – Carol Williams $95.95; 2nd Place – Liz Leigh $94.60; 3rd Place – Patty Zakrajsek $93.95 and 4th Place – Jan Kipp $82.20.
Meet Carol Williams Carol is originally from Rockland County, NY. She married Jim, whom she had known since she was six months old, attending the same church, nursery school and high school. They will be married 54 years in September. They have two children and five grandchildren. Carol went to the State University of New York at Delhi and holds a degree in business and accounting. She and Jim owned Imaging Centers in both Texas and Florida. Due to Jim’s job, Carol and Jim moved to Tequesta, Florida in 1988. When deciding where to finally retire, they decided on Lake Ashton because it had two golf courses and was close to Disney. As hobbies, Carol loves photography and cooking. Although she says cooking for two is not the same as cooking for a family. Carol started playing golf in 2019 and the game has become an “obsession” for her. She started playing with the Niners but as she became more comfortable playing, with Nancy Testa urging her to play with the LALGA, she decided to join. As for the LALGA Carol says the league has been “welcoming, friendly, and so much fun.” She is “very thankful she joined,” as are we. Carol had an incredible Eagle on 15 West during league play and the picture above is of that eventful day. Congratulations Carol and welcome to the LALGA! LA NINERS By Diane Struble How time flies! Spring has arrived with record breaking temperatures, alligators appearing both in the water and on the banks, sandhill cranes with babies following close behind, even an occasional turtle sunning on the banks, along with the wonderful array of wildlife alas comes the end to the winter golf season. Closing day is April 5, with a four person scrambled planned followed by a delicious lunch at the Eagle’s Nest, election of two board members, along with a few surprises (the Niners always have something up their sleeve). Great time for fellowship and goodbyes to snowbird members. 30 Pace of Play A round of nine holes should be completed in two hours. Since we have many scrambles and best balls it should take even less time. • Always carry a spare ball in your pocket. • Take your ball retriever with you when looking by the water’s edge. • Spend no more than three minutes looking for or trying to retrieve your ball. • Take your rake and club(s) with you when you are in the sand trap. If you are close to the green, take your putter and have your partner drive the cart up by the green. • Don’t leave carts parked in the middle of fairways while you are putting. Drive the cart to the side of the green. If you have questions about the Niners, please contact Karen Ferrenande at 207-451-0143. CONGRATS, COLETTE! Lake Ashton golfer Colette McKie (pictured center below) won as overall champion in the Polk County Wome n ’ s Go l f Association TwoD a y H a n d i c a p Tournament held on February 28 at Willowbrook Golf Club and March 7 at Cypresswood Gol f Club. The Lake Ashton Pro Shop will now have the Polk County Women’s Handicap Plaque on the wall in the Pro Shop with her name on it, as she is the winner this season: 2021-2022. Other golfers that also were winners in the tournament were: Liz Leigh - AA Flight 2nd Place Vicki Andrew - A Flight 4th Place Mafie Walker - A Flight 5th Place Lydia Fichtman - B Flight 3rd Place Karen LaPointe - B Flight 5th Place The Polk County Women’s Golf Association allows female golfers to participate in a friendly competitive golf game playing different golf courses in Polk County. If interested in joining, contact Liz at 813-288-0809.
Brad Kirwan’s Lake Ashton Customers Discuss His Real Estate Work Matt Auen, Lake Ashton Golf Pro Curious about your home’s current market value? Call for a free Comparative Market Analysis. BRAD KIRWAN 863.280.0390 5% Commission 31
CLUBS BOLLA By Pat Neaves Looking for an activity that is fun, no skill required, and helps children? Come to the Clubhouse Craft Room any Monday from 1 to 3 pm. The group will be tying knots while enjoying lots of laughter. For anyone that sews but can’t come on Mondays we have blankets that that can be taken home for sewing around the edges. Going on vacation? No problem! Come when you can! The group does not take a summer hiatus and will continue providing blankets wherever there are children in need of comfort in Polk County. Come and enjoy fellowship and a wonderful feeling knowing children are being helped through this project. Blankets of Love sends good wishes and safe travels to neighbors leaving Lake Ashton for the summer months. The BOLLA group would like to thank Ann Boogher for the many years she served as Treasurer. Ann was instrumental in getting the group charity status and tax exempt for the materials we buy. Anyone that knows Ann is not surprised how generous she is giving her time to help others. Like Ann, Chris Crane was Secretary for many years. In addition to taking care of all correspondence, Chris helped get blankets ready and delivered to the various locations we serve. Chris also took over the lead role during the President’s absence. These two won’t go far as they will remain BOLLA members! The group welcomed new Officers Secretary, Amity Kokochak and Treasurer, Louise Price during our annual luncheon. CAMERA CLUB By Larry Hillock The Camera Club will meet on April 11 at 10:30 am in the Clubhouse Cinema. Last month Cindy and Ed Boos provided a great presentation on the many beautiful waterfalls they visited. This month club member photos will be shared and discussed, and plans will be made for a photo shoot. Be sure to bring a few of you pictures on a USB drive to share with the group. In case you are new to Lake Ashton or haven’t yet attended a meeting, membership is open to all LA residents who share an interest in photography. Everyone is welcome regardless of skill level. LA DEMOCRATIC CLUB By Shelley Miller The Lake Ashton Democratic Club is holding their monthly meeting April 7 via Zoom only starting at 4:30 pm. The April speaker is Cecile Scoon, Florida president of the Florida League of Women Voters Zoom with a presentation regarding redistricting. Email lakeashtondemocraticclub@gmail.com for more information. DUPL ICATE BRIDGE By Don Fuller A duplicate bridge game is held every Monday in the Ballroom from 12:45 until approximately 3:30 pm. Players of all abilities are welcome. Advance sign up is encouraged using the duplicate bridge notebook on the Ballroom Information Wall. A partner is required. Email dfuller627@yahoo.com for assistance finding a partner. Recent Winners: March 14: North/South - 1st Don Fuller & Jim Ford ; 2nd George Rogers & Ralph Ritter. East/West - 1st Pauline Pare & Nelda Sedlacek, 2nd Pat Foster & Sonny Robinson March 7: North/South – 1st Pat Foster & Sonny Robinson; 2nd George Rogers & Ralph Ritter; East/ West- 1st Jim Ford & Don Fuller, Ann Murphey & Mary Lois Teyssier February 28: North/South 1st – Tom Fleming & Graham Littlehales; 2nd Pat Foster & Sonny Robinson. East/West - 1st Karla Gengler & Mary Trumper; 2nd Pauline Pare & Nelda Sedlacek February 21: 1st Tom Fleming & Graham Littlehales; 2nd Karla Gengler & Mary Trumper, 3rd Judy Marine & Cheryl Tillman
LA GARDEN CLUB By Lynn Davis New members are always welcomed to join this group that meets every second Wednesday of the month. However, due to a special event, the club will not meet April 13, but April 14 instead. After the meeting, a group of members updated existing pots at the HFC indoor poolside. Consideration was given to plant needs: such as sunlight, humidity, and general maintenance. Lake Ashton Garden Club wishes to invite the Community to celebrate National Gardening Day on April 14 from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm at the Pavilion. There will be a silent auction and Gene, the Barefoot Gardener, will be the guest speaker! A special thank you to the Lake Ashton Community and Swim Club for the generous monetary donations. The club does not collect dues. All donations helped purchase plants and soil for the HFC project. GENEOLOGY CLUB By Jane Imparl Come join the Genealogy Club to find your ancestors and enjoy the company of some of your LA neighbors who have this similar interest. The next meeting is Wednesday, Apr. 13 at 2 PM in the HFC Craft Room. Bring your questions, ancestor stories and digital devices if you’d like. For more information call Jane at 815-545-6655. LA REPUBLICANS By Brenda Bush-Sayre The Lake Ashton Republican Club will meet at the Eagle’s Nest on April 27 from 5 to 7 pm. Dinner will be provided and includes spaghetti & meatballs; salad; soft drink; and dessert. The cost per person is $15. Dinner tickets are available at the Clubhouse and are payable by check. Tickets may also be purchased at the dinner event. All club members and Lake Ashton residents are welcome. Point of contact is Brenda Bush-Sayre, 813-313-9911; bbs1954@icloud.com.
LA ROCKERS By Connie Strassberg "Welcome Rocks" that are distributed to new residents of Lake Ashton, "Kindness Rocks" that are hidden around the community, and "Easter Rocks" that will be donated to the residents and staff of Waters Edge Nursing in Lake Wales, have lately been the focus of the group’s painting. Sue Pieper, the LA Rocker who is in charge of the Waters Edge project, recently wrote a wonderful description of the group on TOLA: "We are the LA Rockers. We are a group that has a passion for painting, friendship and spreading kindness throughout the community. Our Spring kindness project is Waters Edge a senior living home in Lake Wales. Our goal is to paint 210 rocks so that each resident and worker can have one. ... [And,] if you find a rock in the community know that someone has made it with love hoping to put a smile on your face.” Well put! With the lull in Omicron cases, LA Rockers are once again meeting in person in the HFC Community Center on alternate Wednesdays (April 6 and 20 this month) from 2 to 4 pm. Spend an afternoon with a great group of people and learn to paint rocks! Don't worry if you can't draw or have never painted - you don't need to draw or paint. Simply add background color to a small rock and write a message on it then hide it for someone else to find -- and voila, you are an LA Rocker. Best of all, it does not cost anything to try since you will be lent the supplies you will need for your first meeting. Join the Facebook group "LA R o c k e r s " o r c o n t a c t M J R i c h a r d s (mjmrichards517@gmail.com) or Alice Mayer (aamayer1@gmail.com) to let them know you are coming. If we have to cancel our meeting at the last minute, we will post the cancellation on our LA Rockers Facebook page. If in doubt, check before you come.
THE NEW NEW ENGLANDERS CLUB By Marsha Bishop Come join the group to connect, you may find a neighbor or two at dinner at the Eagle’s Nest on May 4. Meet at 5:30 pm with dinner at 6. There will be salad, baked potato with toppings, beef and chicken shish kabobs, tea, soda, with an ice cream bar for dessert. Price is $14 and includes tax and tip. Tickets can be purchased at the Clubhouse and the HFC. The deadline to purchase tickets is April 19. If you have questions, call Marsha Bishop at 863-875-8599 or Cynthia Harris at 863-255-0793. CREATIVE QUILTERS By Marsha Martin After a successful Quilt Show the quilters are taking a well deserved breath and getting on with what they love to do … QUILT! The Tuesday after the show a group of twelve went to a favorite quilt store, The Quilted Twins in Dade City, for the first road trip of 2022. It is always a great place to shop and combined with a wonderful lunch at Kafe Kokopelli it was a day enjoyed by all. The annual auction, with Nancy D'Herin as auctioneer, was full of laughs, food and fun! There are several new members and fellow quilters are always welcome to stop in. The third Tuesday of every month is our "Project Day" and is a new addition that has become a favorite. Each month a different technique or project is demonstrated. If you have any questions please contact Marsha Martin at Mkmartin409@yahoo.com or 406-788-8087. ITALIAN CLUB By Nancy Scali The Italian Club received the following note of thanks for its donation to the Mackie Ministries. “Thank you for your kind donation to Mackie Ministries. The money will be used to feed the less fortunate residents of Winter Haven. Your generosity and support is much appreciated. May the Lord bless you for your charity during the Lenten Season.” The Italian Club annually donates to various charities who support the less fortunate in our area. ART’S GOLF CARS, INC. The Fun Starts Here! Go to artsgolfcars.com and click on ‘BUILD YOUR OWN’ button to built your own ONWARD! ★★★ WE CARRY A FULL LINE OF PARTS & ACCESSORIES ★★★ WE SERVICE ALL MAKES Owner Art Hobson CALL ART ANYTIME FOR APPOINTMENT ★ 863-439-5431 Free Pickup and Delivery for Lake Ashton Residents Only 29630 U.S. Hwy. 27 • Dundee, FL 33838 • artsgolfcars@aol.com FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1987 Sales and Service • 863-439-5431 Owner Art Hobson 0% Financing for 48 Months AUTHORIZED DEALER NEW 2022 CARS NEW 2022 CARS
LA SWIM CLUB By Sandy White ATTENTION NEW RESIDENTS OF ALL AGES (50-100+): Did you know that Lake Ashton has a club for al l levels of swimming interest? The club has reserved the indoor pool three times a week so those who want to swim for fitness but don't feel safe swimming alone and/or who want to do an organized group workout for motivation. The times are: Mondays at 6 pm, Wednesdays at 1:45 pm, and Saturdays at 10 am. Did you know that some fitness swimmers use a goal of Senior Games swimming competition as motivation to workout in the water consistently? Some LASC members compete in age-group swimming meets. Some lap swimmers have found that aiming for competition, even if they don't go, has motivated them to: participate in the club's organized workouts, add strength building and weight loss activities to their daily routines, and eat healthier. CONGRATULATIONS to C a t h y L i s k a , S a n d y Papineau, and Sharon Swanson (pictured above), who swam some personal best times and brought home a bunch of medals from the annual Lee County Senior Swim meet on March 5. SPECIAL THANKS to all who contributed to the LA Garden Club's project to beautify the indoor pool area with plants. If you missed the two-week fundraiser, you can still contribute cash to help buy pots, plants & soil, by giving it to a garden club or swim club member. For more information, please contact Coach Sandy: sandyw1994@aol.com $7,495 995
LAVA AUXILIARY By Chris Graves & Joan DiBattista Thanks to the Lake Ashton residents and members of the LAVA Auxiliary and LAVA, $1800 was raised to purchase 360 boxes of Girl Scout Cookies for troops! The two young sisters, Josephine, a Brownie, and Victoria, a Daisy, spoke at the February joint LAVA and LAVA Auxiliary meeting. They proudly shared stories and pictures of their relatives who have served in the military. The relatives who have served go back to a greatgreat-grandparent. The next meeting of the LAVA Auxiliary is April 20 at 6:30 pm in the Ballroom, close to the stage. LAVA Auxiliary is open to all those who love our country and want to support our veterans. SAVE THE DATE: The 2022 Craft Show is October 22, and crafters are needed! You can reserve a table for $50 to sell your handcrafted items at this fundraiser. Call Joan at 239-851-7899. The month of May is National Military Appreciation Month (NMAM) . Celebrate your patriotism during the month by placing red, white and blue bows on your mai boxes and golf carts. LAVA Auxiliary will have bows available for purchase at Monday Coffee for $5 a bow. SINGLES GROUP By Maureen Ziegler LA Singles is a social group that plans activities for single residents. The group meets monthly on the first Sunday of the month at 2 pm in the Clubhouse Ballroom. In March, the group of over 20 discussed several planned outings and get togethers. Plans were discussed for a trip to the Polk County History Museum in Bartow and the Polk Art Museum in Lakeland. If you would like to take part in activities with other singles, attend the meeting on April 3. WELCOME Reddick Dentistry has served the greater Lake Wales Area for 3 generations. Our office offers many services including implants, crowns/bridges, veneers, dentures/partials, root canal therapy, extractions, periodontal treatment, fillings and whitening. Our family owned office is ready to serve all your dental needs. Dr. Steven Reddick Dr. Jackson Reddick OFFICE HOURS Monday - Wednesday: 7-5 Thursday: 7-4 FAX: (863)678-0424 Dr. Steven Reddick 440 South Buckmoore Rd Lake Wales, Fl 33853 reddickdentistry@aol.com www.reddickdentistry.com Cash, Check, and all major credit cards accepted. SPECIAL $ 82 Includes: Panoramic X-Ray (D0330) Bitewing X-Rays (D0274) Examination by Dr. Reddick (D0150) Regular Cleaning by Hygienist (D1110) Cleaning not guaranteed the same day. Additional charges may apply if gum disease and/or tarter build up are present. answer any questions you have about your plan. The patient and any other person responsible for payment has the right to refuse to pay, cancel payment or be reimbursed for payment. Fees may vary due to complexity of case. This special does not apply to those patients with current dental plans. Fees are minimal. Prices are subject to change.
(863) 551-3411 *Premium Yearly Maintenance Specials *Expert Service by Certified Technicians * Top quality installations * 10 Year & Warranty on new units parts labor * Special January & February pricing (typically our slower months) Winner Free Estimates & Free 2nd Opinions We service all makes and models Goodman • Bryant • Franklin • Grandaire • Trane • Carrier • Lennox- etc 39
MIND&BODY FIVE WISHES Join Cornerstone Hospice on Tuesday, April 19 at 10:30 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom for the Five Wishes class. This presentation goes through the Five Wishes document which is an easy-to-use legal advance directive document written in everyday language. It helps all adults, regardless of age or health, to consider and document how they want to be cared for at the end of life. Sign up at the Clubhouse Information Wall for this free seminar. LAKE ASHTON CONTINUING EDUCATION SERIES ( LACES) April has been formally recognized as Water Conservation Month in Florida for the past 22 years, as April is typically a dry month when water demands are higher due to springtime planting. Come to the Clubhouse Ballroom on April 20 at 1 pm to learn more about water conservation and how you can help. Julie Schleb, Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Coordinator with UF/IFAS Extension Polk County will educate residents on local water conservation efforts and identify water-saving and water-wasting behaviors. Residents will also become familiar with local ordinances and strategies that aid in the conservation of water, learn what makes a device "water-efficient", become familiar with strategies that will help detect leaks in the home, and learn about water conservation strategies that will lead to high water savings. Sign up at the Clubhouse Information Wall for this free seminar. WOMEN’ S BAS IC SELFDEFENSE CLASS In this class presented by the Polk County Sheriffs Office, ladies will learn basic safety tips and techniques to enable them to escape less than desirable situations. The 2-hour class will be held on April 27 at 10:30 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom. Please sign up at the Clubhouse Information Wall. LET’S BEGIN! Are you interested in learning how to paint with watercolor? If so, here is an opportunity to learn with artist Freddie Combs. Join these half day classes to learn the basics of color and paint application. Complete an entire painting in a matter of hours on April 8, April 22, and May 6 from 12:45 to 3:45 p.m. in the HFC Craft Room. $30 per session. Sign up and , receive a list of supplies at the HFC. BOB ROSS OIL PAINTING Instructor: Kay Lenherr April 9 at 1 pm Clubhouse Craft Room Topic: Hawaiian Hibiscus Cost $35 — payable at class. Sign up at the Clubhouse Information Wall by noon on April 8. CERAMIC CHICKS Mary Bosman, Duncan Certified Instructor Wednesdays, 8 am to 1 pm HFC Craft Room Bring your ceramics or purchase in the room. A kiln is available to fire your ceramics. W.A.V. E . Instructor: Sue Fitzgerald, certified AFAA, ACE and ASFA (904.566.2846) Water Aerobics with Variety for Everyone is held Saturdays from 3 to 3:45 pm in the HFC Indoor Pool. Ladies and gentlemen are welcome! There is no signup required and the class is free!
YOGA SHARE Participate in yoga to DVDs on Wednesdays at 8:45 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom. Sign up in advance at the Clubhouse Information Wall. Questions? Call Sally Winfrey at 863.875.8134 or 316.516.2815. AMATEUR RADIO EXAMINATION The Lake Ashton Amateur Radio Association is trying to judge if residents are interested in a Technician and General Class licensing class given here at Lake Ashton. The two hour class will be given once a week for four weeks starting in midApril and after completion of the class the Lake Wales Repeater Association has test sessions for all levels of license the first Saturday of the month at the Winter Haven Red Cross building. If you would be interested in taking this class at Lake Ashton, please contact the Lake Ashton Radio Club at LAARC2022@gmail.com. Give your name and email address and Class you would like to take (Technician LIVING WITH AKES AND ALL IGATORS Back by popular demand, If you haven't already seen the seminar for alligators and snakes. Shannon Carnevale from the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) will be presenting two seminars on how to coexist with alligators and snakes in Florida. Come to the HFC on Tuesday, April 12 at 1 pm for the alligator seminar and Tuesday, April 19 at 1 pm for the snake seminar. or General). You will be advised if there is sufficient interest to hold a class and if there is when and where the classes will be given. FREE IN-HOME ESTIMATES! FLOORING - BLINDS - SHUTTERS - SHOWER REMODELS 29710 US Hwy 27, Dundee 863-439-7500 www.jimsfloordepot.com
TAP JAMMERS ! Facilitator: Julie Bombard (jbombard73@gmail.com) Fridays at 10 am on the Clubhouse Ballroom Stage This is not for the beginner level tap dancer. DANCE CLASSES Instructor: Cheryl Winchester Mondays 9 to 10 am in the HFC Basketball Court Promises to be filled with fun, no previous experience needed! Come when you can, relax and exercise while having fun! Hope you see you there! IMPROVER LINE DANCING Instructor: Ann Ludwick Thursdays at 1 pm in the HFC COUNTRY LINE DANCING Instructor: John Moore Beginners: Tuesdays at 7 pm, Thursdays at 9 am Intermediate: Tuesdays at 8:10 pm, Thursdays at 10:10 am Clubhouse Ballroom LA DANCE CLASSES: CHA CHA Instructor: Connie Wilkinson, certified DVIDA Instructor (863.875.6728) Classes are held Mondays from 4:30 to 5:30 pm in the HFC Community Center on March 7. 14, 21, 28. Classes are FREE and no partner needed! CREATE A CARD Join the group on April 19 to create your own lovely greeting cards. A guest expert will provide instruction, from beginner to expert, all supplies and equipment, and three beautiful cards to take home. No experience needed. Classes will be held in the HFC Sports Court at 9:30 am, 11:30 am and 1 pm. The cost of each class is $10. Sign up sheets are located in the HFC. Sign up soon as reservations go quickly. Join in for some creative fun! Call Karen at 863-875-8414 with questions or further detail. FUSED GLASS CLASSES Jewelry at the Clubhouse Your opportunity to create unique, one-of-a-kind jewelry will happen April 12 at 10 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom. For $40, you will learn how to create beautiful works of wearable art by layering art glass and fusing the glass in a kiln. Each student will make two of the following choices: pendant, pin, or pair of earrings. Included is an introduction to glass fusing in a kiln, instructions on glass cutting, and equipment usage. The remainder of the class is spent choosing and layering glass. Please sign up at the Clubhouse Activities Desk with a check for $40 made out to Jill Groves. Cost includes all project supplies, use of equipment, kiln firing, and art glass. Fused Glass Plate at the HFC Create a 7” x 7” fused and slumped glass plate, trivet or 4 glass coasters April 18 from 4 to 6:30 pm at the HFC. Cost is $35/ person. Sign up at the HFC. Jill will take your creations to her home and after fusing the glass in her kiln, she will apply bails, earring wires, posts, or pins to finish your jewelry which will be available for pickup within one to two weeks. Bring a friend to this fun class! No experience with glass is required for these classes. Class sizes are limited to 20 people. WOMEN’ S BIBLE STUDY Facilitator: Louise Gilla (863-514-4015) Wednesday mornings, 10 to 11:45 am HFC Community Center MEN’S BIBLE STUDY Facilitators: Bob Ring (734-674-7196, bobring42297@gmail.com) and Jim Brendemuehl, (815-343-5727, jcbrendem@gmail.com) Tuesdays from 10 to noon at the HFC and also via Zoom
The 14th Annual LAKE ASHTON FINE ARTS & PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW see page 26 fo r l i s t o f wi n n e r s
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