TIMES L.A. Lake Ashton Community Newsletter August 2023 Have you signed up for Camp Lake Ashton yet? see p. 23 Simply the Best! 4141 Ashton Club Drive Lake Wales, FL 33859 863.324.6032 863.324.5457 Lake Ashton is a 55 & Older Deed Restricted Community www.lakeashtoncdd.com
O R We a l wa y s h a v e y o u r r e a l e s t a t e n e e d s c o v e r e d ! Buying, Selling Or Investing F R E E M A R K E T A N A L Y S I S Call US today if you would like a T E R R I M A T T O C K S B R O K E R L O R I T O F A N E L L I - V O L O C H E N K O R E A L T O R L O R I R A A T H B R O K E R A S S O C I A T E L a k e A s h t o n R e a l t y 4 1 4 0 A S H T O N C L U B D R I V E L A K E W A L E S , F L 3 3 8 5 9 8 6 3 . 3 1 8 . 9 5 4 2 L A K E A S H T O N R E A L T Y | ( 8 6 3 ) 3 1 8 - 9 5 4 2 | L A K E A S H T O N R E A L T Y . C O M S A R A H L O R D M A R K E T I N G
NEWSLETTER STAFF Christine Wells Editor cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com 863.324.5457 Valerie LeBlanc Advertising Sales, Layout & Design valerie@lakeashtoncdd.com SUBMISSION GUIDELINES September Issue Deadline: August 14 • 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, clarity, and to ensure compliance with districts’ media policies • 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 SUPPORTANY PARTICULAR POLITICAL CANDIDATE, PARTY, MEASURE OR ISSUE, OR ANY PRODUCT OR SERVICE. COVER PHOTO BY BRAD KIRWAN AUGUST 2023 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 LACDD Community Director: Christine Wells cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com Clubhouse Activities Assistant: Caroline Lane 863.324.6032 clane@lakeashtoncdd.com 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) Golf Club - Ron Lavoie, General Manager Matt Auen, Head Golf Professional Eagle’s Nest RV & Storage Center Charm City Nik Minadakis, Owner In case of emergency, dial 911! Police Non-Emergency Numbers: Lake Wales: 863.678.4223 Winter Haven: 863.291.5858 Polk County Sheriff: 863.298.6200 3 Lake Ashton Health & Fitness Center (HFC) 6052 Pebble Beach Boulevard Winter Haven, FL 33884 Phone: 863.595.1562 Fax: 863.595.1567 LAIICDD Community Director: James Margeson Phone: 863.595.1562 jmargeson@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 863.325.0065 directors@lakeashtonhoa.org 863.326.1032 863.326.1032 863.326.1085 863.326.1304 dholmes@lakeashtonstorage.com 863-662-3300 charmcityfl@gmail.com rlavoie@lakeashtongc.com mauen@lakeashtongc.com
MONDAY COFFEE Don't miss Monday Coffee with your friends and neighbors at 9 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom. Coffee & donuts are available for $2. AUGUST 7 • Birthdays and Anniversaries • LA Woodworker's Project of the Month • Featured Speaker: City of Lake Wales Main Street • Featured Vendors: Christine Graves Insurance and ComForCare AUGUST 14 • Bite Me Monday - Donations for Humane Society of Polk County • Featured Speaker: E Bike Safety with The Bike Shop • Featured Vendor: Edward Jones - Matt Simpson AUGUST 21 — NO MONDAY COFFEE — LACDD BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETING AUGUST 28 • Peanut Butter Monday - Non Perishable Food Donations for Lake Wales Care Center Can be Dropped Off to the Ballroom Kitchen • Featured Speaker: Meals on Wheels • Featured Vendor: Edward Jones - Melissa Kincaid SCAN THIS QR CO D E W I T H YO U R SMARTPHONE TO S I G N U P FOR EVENTS LIS TED IN THIS ISSUE BEGINNING AU G U S T 1 . BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETINGS LAKE ASHTON II (WH) CDD Friday, August 18, 9 am Health & Fitness Center LAKE ASHTON (LW) CDD Monday, August 21, 9:30 am Clubhouse Ballroom 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 & 3rd Tues. , 9 am, Board Room, 330 W. Church St., Bartow IN THIS ISSUE NEWS 5 LA LOOKS 12 SAFETY 16 MOVIES 18 EVENTS 20 GOLF 24 CLUBS 28 MIND & BODY 32
HOURS OF OPERATION CLUBHOUSE: 6 am – 10 pm daily CLUBHOUSE OFFICES & ACTIVITIES DESK: 9 am – 5 pm Monday through Friday Photo ID Hours: Tuesdays and Wednesdays, Noon to 3 pm (No IDs made August 8) HFC OFFICES & ACTIVITIES DESK: 8 am – 4 pm Monday through Friday HEALTH & FITNESS CENTER: 5:30 am – 10 pm daily LOST AND FOUND If you have lost anything at the Clubhouse or surrounding areas, visit the Club Office Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., to see if it has been turned in to the Lost and Found. Items in the Lost and Found will periodically be displayed at Monday Coffee, and if they have not been claimed after a certain period of time, they may be donated to the Lake Wales Care Center. If you have any questions, call Sheila at 863.324.5457 or stop by the Club Office during the hours listed above. SEASONAL RESIDENTS & SUMMER TRAVELERS If you will be away for the summer, stop by the Clubhouse Activities Desk to sign up and pay for a seasonal subscription ($4/month domestic; $5/month international). The newsletter and calendars are also sent out via email blast. A Summer Checklist is also posted on lakeashtoncdd.com or hard copies are available at the Clubhouse Activities Office. 5 NEXT MONTHLY MARKET: August 9 from 10 am to 2 pm Clubhouse West Parking Lot BAXTER’ S QUAL ITY MEATS Clubhouse West Parking Lot Wednesdays from 10 am to 2 pm BOOKMOBILE August 9 & 23, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm (closed for lunch 12:30 to 1:15), Clubhouse West Parking Lot GUEST & RENTER REGISTRATION All guests and renters must be registered and have a Facilities Guest Pass to use Clubhouse and HFC Amenities. To register, residents must bring at least one adult guest to the Clubhouse or HFC Activities Desk, and renters must have a copy of their rental agreement. The Clubhouse Activities Desk is staffed Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm and the HFC Activities Desk is staffed Monday through Friday from 8 am to 4 pm. NEW RESIDENT SOCIAL The next new resident social will be held on November 3 at 2 pm at the HFC. Get introduced to the community, and meet other new residents and community leaders. Sign up at either Activities Desk. LET'S SHOWCASE YOU! The Lake Ashton Activities Advisory Group is looking for residents with special skills and talents who might be willing to donate time and/ or their expertise in order to expand our programming and planning. Do you have a talent that you would like to share with the community? Crafting, singing, and everything in between … send an email to Caroline at the Clubhouse (clane@lakeashtoncdd.com) or Krystle at the HFC (kfunk@lakeashton2cdd.com).
LACDD LACDD NEWS BOARD OF SUP ERVISO RS CONTA CT INF O Lloyd Howison, Chairman 704-302-6555, lhowison@lakeashtoncdd.com Brenda Van Sickle, Vice Chair 863-324-6191 brenda.vansickle@lakeashtoncdd.com Michael Costello, Assistant Secretary 863-875-9228 or 732-718-7431, mcostello@lakeashtoncdd.com Debby Landgrebe, Assistant Secretary 863-268-8193 dlandgrebe@lakeashtoncdd.com Office Hours: 10 to 11 am August 28 in the Clubhouse Ballroom after Monday Coffee Steve Realmuto, Assistant Secretary 863-949-0304, steve.lacdd@gmail.com Office Hours: 10 to 11 am August 7, 14, 28 in the Clubhouse Ballroom after Monday Coffee By Christine Wells, LA (LW) CDD Community Director There are so many new things happening in Lake Ashton! We hope residents are enjoying the new digital display in the Lobby and the new convenient ways of signing up for events and activities. Starting this month, residents can purchase tickets to events and activities by simply clicking a link! Of course residents can still purchase tickets and sign up for free and paid activities by visiting the Activities Office. We hope this new way to sign up for free events, club activities, parties, and classes, all in one place, will be a helpful convenience for many residents. Stay tuned for classes on how to use this website. Charm City at Lake Ashton is now open with a lunch and dinner menu, full bar, and specials. "Like" their Facebook page for more information on specials. Soon other businesses will be opening up in the previous sales center and residents will have options for several services without leaving the gates of Lake Ashton. East Golf Course bridges have been pressure washed and sealed with several boards being replaced soon. The Clubhouse Outdoor Pool and Spa is nearly complete (at time of publication). This extensive refurbishment project included replacement of all tile in the pool/spa and coping tiles on the edge of the pool/spa, resurfacing the pool/spa, replacing all grates and several lights, and installing an additional handrail at the east and west entrance to the pool to assist those with limited mobility. In addition, staff painted all furniture, repaired column caps along the fence, cleaned perimeter lights, replaced the pool and spa rules signs, and added additional umbrellas and plants to refresh that area. Staff has also replaced the water/ice machine in the Fitness Center vestibule with a chilled, filtered, water fountain/bottle filling station, refurbished the Shuffleboard Court area by replacing lights, adding an outdoor bulletin board, painting and replacing gutters in addition to pressure washing the curbing and gutters in front of the Clubhouse. Needless to say our Facility staff has been busy! We are fortunate to have such a dedicated and talented team. At the Joint Board of Supervisors meeting held on July 21 Supervisors discussed several potential changes to the Joint Amenity Facilities Policies. Residents are encouraged to email any suggestions to the Community Directors (info on page 3). Options for entry gate access were discussed and both boards agreed to evaluate the information further at their respective August meetings and will make a decision soon. At the July Board of Supervisors meeting several projects were approved. Soon residents will see progress towards the switching of the Card Room and Media Center spaces. Four new gate operators were approved to be installed at the Thompson Nursery Road entrance. Two treadmills were approved for purchase and Supervisors decided to award the Fitness Center preventative maintenance contract to Fitness Machine Technicians. Supervisors are continuing to discuss the 2024 budget and all residents are encouraged to attend meetings and give feedback. The 2024 fiscal year budget will be adopted at the next meeting on August 21 at 9:30 am. 6
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LA II CDD BOARD OF SUP ERVISO RS CONTA CT INF O Jim Mecsics, Chairman Public Safety & District Operations/ Programs 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, Transportation System (roads, bridges, paths, etc.) Office Hours: Mondays 1 to 3 pm 863.325.8098, bzelazny@lakeashton2cdd.com Mary C. Clark, Assistant Secretary Public Works & Infrastructure, Including Roadways 252-503-7087, maryclark725@gmail.com Angela Littlewood, Assistant Secretary Special Projects, Landscaping Area including Pet Play Parks Office Hours: Thursdays 9 to 10:30 am 352.250.9707, alittlewoodlakeashton2cdd@gmail.com Roy Aull, Assistant Secretary Facilities/Amenity Management Office Hours: Friday 9 to 10:30 am 973-670-2709, raull@lakeashton2cdd.com LACDD & LAIICDD WEBSITES lakeashtoncdd.com [below left QR code] lakeashton2cdd.com [below right QR code] Find board meeting dates, agendas, minutes, Supervisor contact information and more. You can also sign up to receive blast emails from the Clubhouse and HFC. ALL STAR GRILL 2019 SR 60 E., Lake Wales, FL 33898 (833) 679-9689, allstargrillfl.com Hours: Sunday - Thursday 11 am - 10 pm Friday & Saturday 11 am - 12 pm Happy Hour 2 - 7 pm Two time champions for best wings! Dine in or take out. Full bar with TVs, NFL Ticket, pool tables, darts, games. CHERRY POCKET STEAK N SEAFOOD SHAK 3100 Canal Rd., Lake Wales FL 33898 (863) 439-2031, cherrypocket.com Hours: Sun-Thurs 11 am-9 pm, Fri & Sat 11 am-10 pm. We offer Indoor & Outdoor Seating, Pick-Up, & Delivery THE CROOKED BASS GRILL & TAVERN 1010 N. Scenic Hwy., Babson Park, FL 33827 (863) 589-5887, crookedbass.com Hours: Monday - Thursday 11:30 am-8 pm; Friday & Saturday 11:30 am-9 pm We serve delicious Seafood, Steaks, Burgers, Salads, Chicken, Pork Chops, Pasta, Wings, AYCE Specials & a Full Liquor Bar. Ask about karaoke & live music. OVATION BISTRO & BAR Locations in Winter Haven, Lakeland & Davenport ovationbistro.com Offer 1: Free appetizer or dessert with the purchase of 2 entrees/drinks Offer 2: $10 off the purchase of $60 or more Offer 3: Lake Ashton Residents get a free glass of house wine, beer or cocktail with any purchase. Bring this coupon to redeem. 9 LAIICDD NEWS By James Margeson, LA II (WH) CDD Community Director The summer heat is upon us. Please stay hydrated and watch not to overheat yourself. Stay cool with the inside amenities like the indoor pool, fitness center, dancing, cards, crafts, and other special events like the band Fever on August 11, Hospice Seminar on the 15th and Camp Lake Ashton events like rock painting, line dancing, and Community Potluck. Let’s make this potluck the best! The HFC will be providing hot dogs for this event, and there will be many other activities. We hope everybody had a good time at Pig Roast on July 14 and we are planning to do it every year. Look forward to seeing you at future events at the HFC. SPECIAL RESTAURANT ADVERTISING SECTION
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JOINT AMENITIES POLICY HIGHLIGHT Each month an excerpt from the Joint Amenity Facilities Policy is featured in the LA Times. The full Joint Amenity Facilities Policy can be found under “Additional Documents” on both lakeashtoncdd.com and lakeashton2cdd.com. Questions can also be directed to LA (LW) CDD Community Director Christine Wells, (cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com) or LAII (WH) CDD Community Director James Margeson, (jmargeson@lakeashton2cdd.com). BOWLING 1. Proper attire must be worn. Bowling shoes are the only acceptable footwear on the lanes. 2. The bowling machines are all self-scoring. If you are unsure how to operate the machines or need assistance, please contact the Amenity Manager or Staff for instructions. 3. No one is allowed past the foul line or on a bowling lane at any time. If it becomes necessary to traverse the lanes, all walking shall be done in the gutter(s). 4. Proper bowling etiquette shall be adhered to at all times. The use of profanity or disruptive behavior is prohibited. 5. No food or drink is allowed in the approach area. 6. If, at any time, the equipment fails to operate properly or your ball does not return, please contact the Amenity Manager or Staff for assistance. 7. No one is allowed behind the pin-setting machines without the permission of the Amenity Manager. 8. Return all balls and shoes to racks when you have finished bowling. 9. Guests under the age of eighteen (18) years of age must be supervised by adult Patron who understands the rules and regulations of the game. 10. There are Open Play days designated by the Amenity Manager where reservations are not accepted to allow for "first come, first served" use of the amenity. 10 11. Amenity reservations are non-exclusive. At the Amenity Manager’s discretion and depending upon scheduling availability, reservations for multiple groups may be booked at the same time in this room. When multiple group activities are scheduled, please be courteous of others. Open Bowling days are all day on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. Please be mindful of others wanting to enjoy the lanes during this time and ensure you only use the number of lanes needed for your group. For example, if you have 4 people in your group, please use one lane to allow for the other lanes to be used by residents wanting to play during this time. If you have any questions or concerns regarding maintenance of this Amenity please contact Christine Wells. Thank you! The District is lucky to have four residents who help with pinsetting, general repairs, and maintenance of the lanes at Lake Ashton. Thank you, Dennis Yenor, Ken Meyer, Steve Martin, and Paul Panone for all you do for residents! Please be sure to thank them when they are helping with your league or when you see them out and about in the community.
A+ REALTY LLC Thinking o Selling Your Homef Why pay a 6% listing commission when you can use A+ Realty and list for only 2.9%? Get MORE, pay LESS! Compare before you list! Trust your neighbor with your home. All A* Realty Realtors are Lake Ashton Residents! A+ Realty LLC is a full service real estate company that belongs to East Polk County Association of Realtors, Stellar MLS, Florida Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors. Your home will receive MAXIMUM MLS and internet exposure! Michael R. Krigelski Cell: 863-651-7272 Home: 863-326-5674 www.krigelski.com YOUR neighborhood TEAM! Vickie Howell Cell: 407-931-6545 Anita Piasecki Cell: 734-915-6311 Ron Schwartz Cell: 239-405-1282 Town & Country Real Estate, DBA A+ Realty LLC | 277 Magnolia Avenue SW | Winter Haven, FL 33880 | Frank Vaughn, Broker 11 ?
L.A. LOOKS Wildlife Corner Photo & Article By Barbara Ann Comer The Boat-tailed Grackle is a common year-round resident of Lake Ashton that cannot be missed! This large, gregarious blackbird is loud! The male (above right) is an iridescent blue-black with a long, keel-shaped tail. The female (above left) leads most observers to believe they are seeing a completely different species. She is tawny-brown with slightly darker wings and tail and is smaller than the male. Their vocalizations sound like noisy, nonsensical chatter. Usually found near the water or at bird feeders their flamboyant demeanor calls attention to themselves. An interesting fact is that the ones south of Gainesville have dark eyes while those farther north have yellow eyes. The male Boat-tailed Grackles strut around boldly on long legs with their tails cocked up. Males (often in small groups) point their bills straight up into the air attempting to attract the ladies. PONDS AND THE EFFECTS OF GRASS CL IPPINGS The majority of homeowners use a lawn care provider to keep their lawns in good condition. During the hot summer months, contractors are in a hurry to beat the heat and mow homes that border ponds with less caution. When grass clippings are added to a pond, the nitrogen levels rise, increasing the likelihood of algae blooming. Please remind lawn care contractors to mow with the chute closed or in a direction that does not blow clippings into the pond. If you have any questions about aquatic maintenance in Lake Wales ponds, please email Operations Manager Matt Fisher at mfisher@lakeashtoncdd.com. LA II (WH) HOA BOARD • Kristy McKibben, President, presidentla2hoa@outlook.com • Gary Johnson, Secretary, secretaryla2hoa@outlook.com • Ray Rudy, Treasurer, treasurerla2hoa@outlook.com • Dave Bishop, VP & ARC Liaison, vparcla2hoa@outlook.com • Bill Testa, VP & Asst. Treasurer, vptreasurerla2hoa@outlook.com LA (LW) HOA BOARD • President Tom Hevel, president@lakeashtonhoa.org • Vice President David Muller, vp@lakeashtonhoa.org • Vice President 2 Debbie Holmes, vp2@lakeashtonhoa.org • Treasurer Nancy Baker, treasurer@lakeashtonhoa.org • Secretary Tim Doyle, secretary@lakeashtonhoa.org • Officer Bob Prowant, manager@lakeashtonhoa.org • Officer Greg Bluemke, arc.lakeashtonhoa.org 12
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Native Plants of Central Florida By Lynn Davis What can you find attached to live oaks, bottle bushes and other vegetation in our community? The air plant known as Tillandsia recurvata. This is an epiphytic plant (grows on other host plants) and is free if you are lucky to host a tree it strives in! There are over 600 varieties of Tillandsias, but the recurvata is most commonly seen here. It is often called the ball moss, yet it isn’t a moss at all. It actually is related to bromeliads and pineapples. Tillandsia’s get all their nutrients from the atmosphere. It requires 4-6 hours of bright, indirect sunlight daily and a stable surface. People have the misconception that air plants may harm trees. This is untrue. The plant often fixes nitrogen problems. It converts the nitrogen from the atmosphere into the form used by plants. Why have air plants become popular? The easy care and unique displays have made air plants a good houseplant. They require indirect light and having too much natural light could burn the plant. Like other plants, it needs water. Give it a good soak once a week by submerging it in water for 30 minutes. You might want to use bottled water or leave faucet water to sit long enough to dissipate the chlorine. Just mist the plant between waterings. The best environment to place these plants in are areas which receive a great amount of humidity such as lanais and bathrooms. Just remember the plants don’t do well if constantly wet. Another reason for their popularity is their unique displays. You can attach to cork, place in a terrarium, hang on string and countless other creative ways. Don’t be surprised if left in bushes or trees to find they’ve bloomed in late winter or possibly midsummer. Camp Lake Ashton will give those interested a chance to try out these plants in their own homes. 14 LARGEST SELECTION OF INDOOR & OUTDOOR FANS ANYWHERE! UP TO 40% OFF Cleaning! $ Tuscan LED Light Remote WINTER HAVEN’S #1 QU 24999 $99 DISCONTINUED + DISPLAS! Design Y an Parts & Services Aailable In-Store Warranes Winer Haen 1104A Cypr d SE (Lampligh a) wancityom (863) 299-2777
SAFETY CAP By Mike Weissberg Since all residents are part of Neighborhood Watch you are watching things around you. Citizens Assisted Patrol (CAP) does this by patrolling our streets. Our job is to look for things that do not belong in our community. Our presence with our lights flashing while patrolling our streets is our deterrent to help keep our streets safe. CAP is always looking for more volunteers to patrol our streets. Our job is to 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 917-482-3151. DRIVER SAFETY REMINDER Polk County Schools start back August 11. Please use caution when traveling CR 653 during school opening and closing times. All vehicles, including golf carts, must obey all stop signs and the 20 mph speed limit throughout Lake Ashton. Drivers, please keep an eye out for pedestrians at all times. Obeying posted speed limit and traffic signs can help avert a potential tragedy. Adults should not place young children on their laps between them and the steering wheel as this creates a hazardous condition for the children in the case of a panic stop or accidents. NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH By Brenda Jackson, NW PR Liaison NW leadership team is excited to present our neighborhood watch deputies: Nancy Baker, Carolyn Bishop, Donna Debnar, Joan Enslen, Jeannie Franklin, Shari Gieber, David Harrison, Harold Jackson, Diane Mavuro, Vaughn Platt, John Sebastian. Please join us in welcoming our new and returning neighborhood watch deputies! With our list of deputies complete, we are now looking for block captains! Are you looking for something to be involved in? Are you interested in helping your neighbors and community remain safe and secure? Then a block captain position may be just what you are looking for! If you are interested in learning more or want to volunteer as a block captain, please 16 contact Deputy Chief, Joan DiBattista at 239.851.7899. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to improve and grow our organization. Some things to watch for: a breakdown of neighborhoods and the deputy responsible for the area, a list of block captains, and a new logo designed by one of our own LA residents and a NW deputy. STORM SEASON Storm season runs until November 30. All residents spending the summer months in Florida should be prepared for severe weather. A helpful storm preparation resource can be found at lakeashtoncdd.com under "Additional District Documents,” or scan the above QR code. PARKING AND ROAD SAFETY REMINDERS From Florida State Statute 316.1945 Stopping, standing, or parking prohibited in specified places: No person shall stand or park a vehicle, whether occupied or not, except momentarily to pick up or discharge a passenger or passengers: 1. In front of a public or private driveway. 2. Within 15 feet of a fire hydrant. 3. Within 20 feet of a crosswalk at an intersection. 4. Within 30 feet upon the approach to any flashing signal, stop sign, or traffic control signal located at the side of a roadway. Additionally, do not park a vehicle directly parallel to another vehicle, do not park on a curve, and park as close to the curb as possible. Also, the City of Lake Wales has an ordinance (§ 20-14 - Parking in residential districts) that makes it unlawful to park overnight or leave unattended during the day any commercial motor vehicle, golf cart, moped, motorized scooter, motor vehicle, motorcycle, trailer, truck, or vehicle on a public street or road in a residential district of this city that obstructs the free, convenient, and normal use of the public street or road by impeding, hindering, stifling, or endangering the safe movements of traffic or pedestrians. For the full ordinance please visit http:// lakewales.elaws.us/code/ordinances_ch20_artii
MOVI ES AUGUST 15 – 17 11 AM, 3 & 7 PM TUESDAY SHOWINGS & THE 11 AM SHOWINGS ON WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY & FRIDAY ARE CLOSED CAPTIONED. CINEMA CAPACITY: 55 AUGUST 1 — 3 11 AM, 3 & 7 PM GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY 3 2023 | PG-13 | 2H 30MIN In Marvel Studios "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3" our beloved band of misfits are looking a bit different these days. Peter Quill, still reeling from the loss of Gamora, must rally his team around him to defend the universe along with protecting one of their own. A mission that, if not completed successfully, could quite possibly lead to the end of the Guardians as we know them. AUGUST 8 — 10 11 AM, 3 & 7 PM BOOK CLUB: THE NEXT CHAPTER 2023 | PG-13 | 1H 47MIN The highly anticipated sequel follows our four best friends as they take their book club to Italy for the fun girls trip they never had. When things go off the rails and secrets are revealed, their relaxing vacation turns into a once-in-a-lifetime crosscountry adventure. 2022 | PG-13 | 1H 38MIN SEE HOW THEY RUN In the West End of 1950s London, plans for a movie version of a smash-hit play come to an abrupt halt after a pivotal member of the crew is murdered. When world-weary Inspector Stoppard (Sam Rockwell) and eager rookie Constable Stalker (Saoirse Ronan) take on the case, the two find themselves thrown into a puzzling whodunit wi thin the gl amorous l y sordid theater underground, investigating the mysterious homicide at their own peril. AUGUST 22 — 24 ARMAGEDDON TIME 2022 | R | 1H 54MIN From acclaimed filmmaker James Gray, ARMAGEDDON TIME is a deeply personal coming-of-age story about the strength of family and the generational pursuit of the American Dream. The film features an all-star cast including Anthony Hopkins, Anne Hathaway and Jeremy Strong. AUGUST 29 — 31 (NO 7 PM SHOWING ON AUGUST 31) 11 AM, 3 & 7 PM GHOSTED 2023 | PG-13 | 1H 56MIN Salt-of-the-earth Cole (Chris Evans) falls head over heels for enigmatic Sadie (Ana de Armas)--but then makes the shocking discovery that she's a secret agent. Before they can decide on a second date, Cole and Sadie are swept away on an international adventure to save the world.
MAY 7 CLASSIC & SPECIAL INTEREST MOVIES ARE SHOWN IN THE CINEMA FRIDAYS. 11 AM SHOWTIME IS CLOSED CAPTIONED. AUGUST 4 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM TO END ALL WAR: OPPENHEIMER AND THE ATOMIC BOMB 2023 | NR | 1H 27MIN The true story of physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer's journey from driven and ambitious scientist to remorseful and tormented man struck hard by the gravity of what he had done. The narrative centerpiece of To End All War is the Trinity test in the New Mexico desert on July 16, 1945. For Oppenheimer, the successful detonation of the first atom bomb validates years of tireless work. But in this moment of seeming triumph -- as the first mushroom cloud ever seen envelops the pre-dawn sky -- Oppenheimer sees before him a destructive power of almost supernatural magnitude. As he would say later, he feels he has become "death, the destroyer of worlds..." and life will never be the same. AUGUST 11 11 AM, 3 PM (NO 7 PM SHOWING) THE WALK 2016 | PG | 2H 4MIN As a boy, Philippe Petit dreams of performing daring feats for dazzled crowds. As an adult (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), his life's ambition comes true when he becomes a high-wire artist who stares death in the face with every step. Under the guidance of mentor Papa Rudy, the French daredevil devises a plan to walk on a tightrope attached to the north and south towers of the World Trade Center. With help from his team and against all odds, Petit attempts the seemingly impossible stunt on Aug. 7, 1974. THE MAGIC YEARS CLUB IS HOSTING A SHOWING OF FINDING NEVERLAND ON AUGUST 11 AT 6:30 PM. OPEN TO ALL (FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED, CAPACITY 55). Academy Award winners Johnny Depp, Kate Winslet, Dustin Hoffman and Julie Christie star in this magical tale about one of the world's great storytellers and the people who inspired his masterwork, "Peter Pan." AUGUST 18 11 AM, 3 PM (NO 7 PM SHOWING) THE OUTSIDERS 1983 | PG | 1H 31MIN A teen gang in rural Oklahoma, the Greasers are perpetually at odds with the Socials, a rival group. When Greasers Ponyboy (C. Thomas Howell) and Johnny (Ralph Macchio) get into a brawl that ends in the death of a Social member, the boys are forced to go into hiding. Soon Ponyboy and Johnny, along with the intense Dallas (Matt Dillon) and their other Greaser buddies, must contend with the consequences of their violent lives. While some Greasers try to achieve redemption, others meet tragic ends. AUGUST 25 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE 2006 | R | 1H 42MIN The Hoover family -- a man (Greg Kinnear), his wife (Toni Collette), an uncle (Steve Carell), a brother (Paul Dano) and a grandfather (Alan Arkin) -- puts the fun back in dysfunctional by piling into a VW bus and heading to California to support a daughter (Abigail Breslin) in her bid to win the Little Miss Sunshine Contest. The sanity of everyone involved is stretched to the limit as the group's quirks cause epic problems as they travel along their interstate route.
EVENTS IMPORTANT 2024 ENTERTAINMENT SERIES DATES SHOW DATES: TRIVIA By David Fix If you haven’t yet joined your friends and neighbors in the Clubhouse Ballroom at Sunday Night Trivia weekly at 7 pm, it’s time you do! Doors open at 6. Come early, bring dinner or snacks, and enjoy an evening of fun. It’s only $1 to play with all money returned to winning teams. There have been around 150 people on average each Sunday. Don’t have a team? No problem—come join a table looking for players. Maximum of eight to a table. JANUARY 18 & 30, 2024 FEBRUARY 9, 2024 MARCH 6 & 29, 2024 Ticket On Sale Dates Current Season Ticket Renewal: October 2 — 31, 2023 Current Season Ticket Holder Upgrade/Exchange Period: November 7 — 9, 2023 New Season Ticket Sales: November 14 — December 8, 2023 I to Lake Ashton’s E celebration OKTOBERFEST September 22 6 pm in the Clubhouse Ballroom Don’t Miss this Fun Indoor Festival! Live music by The Brussel Sprouts German street food from Schnitz & Giggles and beer from the Biergarten available for purchase Make your own pretzel necklaces, & other surprises! Tickets: $26 On Sale August 14 after Monday Coffee at the Clubhouse Activities Office Individual Ticket Sales (if available): December 19, 2023 KARAOKE NIGHT August 9 brings another great night of singing and fun in the Ballroom from 6 to 9 pm. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the Clubhouse Activities Office. Next date: September 13 FEVER AT THE HFC The band Fever is coming to perform at the HFC on Friday, August 11. They will be playing music from 7 to 10 pm. Stop by the HFC now to reserve a table for you and your friends for $10. Admission tickets will be sold at the door for $10 each. 20 - - D Y E O T U I V ’ N R
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HAUNTING ON THE LAKE II By Terri McDuff LAPAC’s Halloween Fundraiser event, Haunting II On the Lake is just around the corner. Remember to save the date for Saturday, October 28. Tickets will go on sale in late September, $15 for adults and $10 for children. The event will run from 4 to 9 pm with limited time slots every half hour allowing groups of no more than 35 people per time slot to move through the ballroom. As with many hauntings, be prepared to expect the unexpected to happen! Join in the fun by dressing up in your own costume! At the end of your tour, there will be treats handed out so bring your trick or treat bag with you. We are still in need of lead volunteers to help with decorating, painting, acting as well as with hair and makeup and many other areas. Anyone interested in being a volunteer, please contact Terri McDuff at 916-201-7745. CHRISTMAS IS COMING! By Debby Landgrebe Here’s hoping everyone has been enjoying the summer and while it’s still warm outside, let’s start thinking of cooler temperatures and ‘that wonderful time of the year’. Please be sure you mark the calendar for the upcoming Christmas Dinner Dance for Friday, December 1 in the Clubhouse Ballroom. Final preparations are being made and revealed soon. It will be a superb evening of fabulous live music and delicious food, so get your holiday clothing and dancing shoes ready. This year, reservations can be made starting September 8 by contacting Debby Landgrebe. To reserve and buy a table provide a check (no cash or UPCOMING EVENTS AT THE CLUBHOUSE November 10 — One Acts Dinner Theatre November 17 — Friendsgiving November 29 — Home Improvement Expo December 1 — Christmas Dinner Dance December 31 — New Year’s Eve in the Ballroom 22 credit cards) made out to LA Christmas Dinner Dance the amount of a table or 8 is $320, or $400 for a table of 10. Individual tickets are $40 per person. Tickets will also be on sale in person in the Clubhouse Ballroom after Monday Coffee on September 11. Tickets are $40 per person, check only, with tables of eight and limited tables of ten. They will also be available at the Clubhouse Activities Desk after the initial sales (check only). Please provide the names of each person. Looking forward to a festive, decked-out crowd and a wonderful, fun time, so plan on coming! 4TH OF JULY GOLF CART PARADE WINNERS Congratulations to the winners of this year’s Golf Cart Parade: First place: Rose and Alan Cropp Second place: Tom and Sandy Fritschi Third place: Gloria Fitzsimmons & Mary Beth Abbate Special Award (Automobile): David & Linda Fritischi Words from 1st Place Winner Alan Cropp on his design of a F16 US Air Force Thunderbird, pictured: “This design took a week just to draw up the plans on our golf cart. I needed to scale it down to look symmetric for our cart. Then another 3 weeks to cut and paint all the pieces and assemble. The wings needed to fold up for travel. Also, I added the afterburner sound for fun! During the parade it was funny to see how many people looking to the sky for the jet. The plan went well and I guess I will need to start working on next years design. Thank you all for the great reviews and responses! Knowing how many of you enjoyed our cart was worth all the time and work.” Disclaimer: This photo opportunity was set up in advance through LAVA for this specified purpose only. Golf carts are not permitted to drive through or park in this area.
WELCOME BACK, CAMPERS! This year’s activities will be held at both the Clubhouse and HFC. All events are free, but please sign up for the below activities only if you plan to participate, as space is limited. Sign up via link in email blast or at either Activities Desk with Counselors Caroline or Krystle. EVENT SCHEDULE AUGUST 2: KAYAKING ON LAKE ASHTON — GROUPS LEAVE AT 8:30 OR 10:30 AM Launch behind the Pavilion — bring drinks and campers in the 10:30 group should bring a light lunch. Each group is limited to 7. Campers are welcome to bring their own kayaks or canoes as well. ROCK WORD GARDEN — 2 PM — CLUBHOUSE Make word rocks that can be used to form phrases and sentences with the help of the LA Rockers. These will be a fantastic new interactive addition to the Clubhouse’s Reflection Garden. Bring your cell phone and reading glasses (if needed) AUGUST 9: AIR PLANT ART — 10 AM — CLUBHOUSE Make an indoor or outdoor artful statement with air plants! The Garden Club will host this activity and teach how air plants actually work. AUGUST 10 : LINE DANCING — 1 PM - HFC Campers can learn how to boot, scoot, and boogie with line dancer Lorrie Shearin! AUGUST 16: CAMP GOLF CART RACE — 2 PM Get ready, get set, GO! Campers can team up with friends to follow clues far and wide through the community. No more than 4 Campers to a team and only one golf cart per team as well. BEGINNERS ROCK PAINTING — 2 PM — HFC Campers are invited to an introductory rock painting class hosted by the LA Rockers — just be sure to bring your cell phone and reading glasses (if needed)! The class is limited to 25. AUGUST 22: COMMUNITY POTLUCK — 12 PM - HFC Join in on fun and fellowship at the Community Potluck at the HFC! Hot dogs will be provided, just be sure to bring a side! AUGUST 24: KUMIHIMO FRIENDSHIP BRACELETS — 12 PM - CLUBHOUSE The Art of Beading will instruct campers in the traditional Japanese art form known as Kumihimo, resulting in different patterns and designs. AUGUST 31: BLOCK PARTY JAMBOREE — 7 PM - CLUBHOUSE All residents are welcome to take part in the Block Party Jamboree featuring live music from The Pickup Artists! BYOC: Bring Your Own Chair! Sponsored By: Performance Golf Carts, Matt Simpson of Edward Jones, The Oasis Spa, Encompass Dental & Wellness, Lori Atkins of Amerilife
GOLF LA NINERS By Marti Schmidt Nothing describes it better – IT’S HOT! Unseasonably HOT. Nevertheless, the BlueMan Niners 4-Person scramble Par-3 tournament in July came off without a hitch. Because of the heat, it was decided to shorten it to one day this year and share lunch. Please remember: water water water – drink drink drink and beseech the daily rains to return. Be safe out there in the heat, and before you know it September will arrive and start bringing back our snowbirds and adventurous RVers. We’ve gained a few new members over the summer, and our prayers go out for those Niners and their families who are dealing with health issues. Still have questions? Ready to join? Contact Denise at denisepops23@aol.com for more info! LALGA By Dawn Neigh FIRST FLIGHT WINNERS 1ST GROSS Jan Baun and Liz Leigh 2nd GROSS Bev Hines and Alina Lindstrom 3rd GROSS Mafie Walker and Margie Dersham 1st NET Marylou Wheat and Monnie Guinn 2nd NET Patti Panone and Kathy Reed 3rd NET Jackie Tressler and Lydia Fichtman SECOND FLIGHT WINNERS 1st GROSS Janis Vasquenza and Cheryl Coveleskie 2nd GROSS Nancy Testa and Renee Hicks 3rd GROSS Shearly Simpson and Dixie Kite 1st NET Gina Martine and Bonnie Simonetta 2nd NET Kim Kutsch and Rita Edmunds 3rd NET Sue Buss and Pat Hodges The board also looked at the possibility of adding drop zones on holes 4 & 11 East. The decision was made to table the discussion and remain as is with NO drop zones on 4 and 11 East. August games look to be fun as well. Jan Baun has outdone herself with these competitions. August 1 - Team Play ABCD randomly paired, Team low net August 8 - Team Play 4-person scramble, PAYOUT equal low gross and low net August 15 Stableford August 22 Team play, PAYOUT low net August 29 Partner play flighted randomly paired TAKE CHARGE OF LIFE’S TRANSITIONS July weather didn’t disappoint! Ladies can sign up on Tuesdays and golf nine holes instead of 18. Red Hoagland Challenge status of July is 1st Margie Dersham, 2nd Marylou Wheat, 3rd Pattie Adame, and 4th Jan Baun. This challenge runs June 1, 2023, through May 31, 2024, and is open to all LALGA 18 hole league players. A big thank you to our dedicated statistician Char Walter for this updated information. Our Tropics Tournament was a great success with over 35 ladies willing to weather the heat on these Dog Days of summer. A shout out to Sandra and her crew at the Nest for the delicious luncheon that followed the 2-day event. 24 <#$3$* @4311"12 6"7"12 A('#$# 5 )"44# 6&12 A*(0 B3(* C*="/3"= @4311"12 D##*$ @(&$*/$"&1 @(&+3$* 63E* D#F$&1 >*#"=*1$ !"#"$ &'( )*+#"$* ,&( -./&0"12 !"($'34 5 6"7* 8*0"13(#9 :*;# 5 <='/3$"&134 >*#&'(/*#? Denise R. Tessier, Esq. 863.220.7927 Office | 863.225.2244 Direct Info@TessierLawFirm.com !!!"#$%%&$'()!*&'+",-+ 1375 Havendale Blvd. NW | Winter Haven, FL 33881
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LAMGA By David Kubissa LAMGA members can always use some advice on how to cut strokes off their scores. To help out, this month’s article includes advice from Lake Ashton Head Pro Ian Peterson about how to practice your chipping. Chip shots are typically within about 10 feet of the green where the ball is going to fly a shorter distance in the air and roll out a longer distance to get to the hole. The best rule of thumb is to get the ball rolling on the ground as soon as possible. Study this image and practice the accompanying techniques. up the shaft through the lead arm. Place about 60% of your weight on the lead foot and 40% on your trail foot. Swing: Rock your shoulders back and through in a pendulum motion. Keep your hands and wrists quiet and maintain the straight-line relationship up the shaft and through your lead arm into the finish. Notice how the golfer finishes the stroke. His hands and wrists are quiet, and the back of his left wrist is flat. You can draw a line up the shaft and his left arm. Practice this technique with a sand wedge, 9-iron, 7-iron, or a hybrid to develop a feel for distance with the different clubs. Set-Up: Ball position should be back in the stance, hands forward and shaft leaning forward to create a straight line Sponsor spotlight: This month we thank and highlight the following LAMGA sponsors: Stone Law Group, Weaver Loveless Law, Brad Kirwan Real Estate, Mike Krigelski – A+ Realty, Terri Mattocks and Lori Raath of Lake Ashton Realty, and Realty Inspection Solutions. To see the full list of 2023 sponsors, go the LAMGA web page on LakeAshtonLiving.com. Monthly update for the Red Hoagland Hyundai Challenge through the end of June: 1. John Milsom, $109.75; 2. Paul Panone, $109.50; 3. Rolly Geyer $108.75; 4. Lloyd Kramer $99.65; 5. Rick Simonetta, $94.00.
Brad Kirwan’s Lake Ashton Customers Discuss His Real Estate Work Grateful to Realtor for Service Above and Beyond Working with Brad made a somewhat unique and difficult situation much easier. He took charge with coordinating cleaning out the house and taking care of maintenance/repair issues. Without his assistance, I would have had to hire someone to accomplish the many tasks Brad took care of. I am eternally grateful to Brad for all he did on my Dad's behalf. I highly recommend you contact him should you have need for a Realtor. Thanks again, Brad !! Family of Harry Mazelin 13 July 2023 Verified by RateMyAgent Curious about your home’s current market value? Call for a free Comparative Market Analysis. BRAD KIRWAN 863.280.0390 27
CLUBS LA BELLES By Pat Bergstrom The August LA Belles Luncheon will be held at Cracker Barrel, 111 Dunson Lane, in Davenport on Wednesday, August 30 at 11 am. Why not make a day of it with the ladies and shop in their gift shop and the surrounding stores nearby? Look for the sign-up sheet link sent via email blast and we'll see you there! If you have any questions, please call Pat Bergstrom at 740-624-6903. LAKE ASHTON PICKLEBALL ASSOCIATION (LAPA) By Chuck Caesar the spot after a hot morning on the courts. Special thanks to Martha McKinney, Marcia Santino, Becky Wilson, Lisa Savala and Terresa Caesar for their work in pulling this fun event together. Whether you are an avid pickleball player, a casual player or someone interested in learning a new sport and getting to know some amazing people, please consider joining the Lake Ashton Pickleball Association. The dues are only $12 per person per year and are used to provide pickleballs and other items for the courts as well as to fund pickleball mixers and special events such as our America’s Birthday Celebration. If you are interested in learning the game, be watching in the September issue of the LA Times for information on Coach Dennis Santino’s Newbie Clinic. We would love to see you all out on the courts. GARDEN CLUB By Lynn Davis The Lake Ashton Garden Club would like to thank The Lake Ashton Pickleball Association hosted an America’s Birthday Celebration on July 1. The celebration included a pickleball mixer followed by a luncheon. Thirty-two players of all levels participated in the mixer event. After 5 rounds of exciting matches, the top two men and women from each of the pools squared off for the mixer championship. The champions for the women were Bev Hines and Deborah Waldrip who defeated Diane Holman and Caron Erickson in the finals. On the men’s side Doug Epler and Jerry Watson defeated Earl Schely and John Savala in their final match. After the mixer metal awards ceremony, the players and other members of the Association met at the HFC for a hot dog cookout with chips and soft drinks. The hotdogs were perfectly grilled by Dennis Santino, Phil Hines and John Savala and the soft drinks really hit 28 the community for their continuous support. The feedback and words of encouragement are appreciated. Many residents drive, ride and walk by expressing their thanks for our efforts in beautifying Lake Ashton. The Garden Club did not meet in the month of July, but a survey asking for next project ideas and club topics were sent to all members. The results were very encouraging and the club looks forward to many great meetings. Please join members of the garden club at the Camp Ashton “air plant” craft on August 9th at 10am in the Clubhouse! Members will be present to help with the activity and provide basic information on the care of tillandsias. Feel free to join the club for support, ideas, tours and guest speakers. GENEALOGY CLUB MEETING By Jane Imparl Come join us for some fun and adventure while we look for our ancestors. The fun begins at 2 PM on Wednesday, August 9 in the Craft Room at the HFC. All levels of expertise are welcome. Questions? Call Jane at 815-545-6655.
LA SWIM CLUB By Sandy White LA REPUBLICAN CLUB By Gary Johnson In this month's LASC column, member Sharon Swanson (pictured with a a fellow competitor from Florida) shares her experience at Senior Nationals in Pittsburgh. 11,576 Seniors registered for the 2023 National Senior Games. Over 600 athletes attended from Florida. Florida Senior Games welcomed us with a party on Thursday evening that included exceptional food and socialization to kick off the games. The pool at the University of Pittsburgh is huge, so there was plenty of room for all the competitors and spectators. The event was very well run, with accommodating volunteers who continuously circled the venue with drinks, snack bars, and bananas. The competition was steep and there were an incredible number of swimmers. In my 2 events, there were 85 and 73 women competing respectively. The 2023 Celebration of Athletes on Friday night was held at PNC Park, home of the Pittsburgh Pirates. There were more than 3,000 athletes who marched in the Parade of States honoring the senior athletes. The Pittsburgh Pirates gave all the competitors a ticket to their game and approximately 5,000 attended. At last count on Sunday morning, Florida was leading the medal count at 315. I was never in the running for a medal, but this was an amazing experience and adventure. I am so happy I could come and race with these amazing athletes. The Lake Ashton Swim Club offers general fitness and pre-competitive workouts thr ee times a week. For mor e info contact sandyw1994@aol.com. LA DEMOCRATIC CLUB By Paul Ritz The Lake Ashton Democratic Club is holding their monthly meeting August 3 in-person only at the HFC. Social time with snacks will be from 4 to 4:30 pm. Please bring your own beverage. The in-person General meeting will start at 4:30. For more information, email lakeashtondemocraticclub@gmail.com. 30 The Lake Ashton Republican Club took a break in July and had no meeting. The next scheduled meeting is set for Wednesday, August 23, 2023, in the Clubhouse Ballroom beginning at 3:30 pm for sign-in/ social time. The meeting will start at 4. We are working on the guest speaker and will announce once one is confirmed. If you know of a neighbor (registered Republican) who would like to attend please bring them along. Look forward to seeing everyone there. TUESDAY PARTY BRIDGE By George Rogers June 20: Jeanine Connors, Elaine Inman, Chris Verges, Howard Mayne June 27: Judy Marine, Marge Kniat, Dana Griffiths, Tie:Jeanine Connors & George Rogers July 11: Chris Verges, Elaine Inman, Ron McKie, Jeanine Connors DUPLICATE BRIDGE By Liz Leigh A duplicate bridge game is held every Monday in the Clubhouse Ballroom from 12:45 until approximately 3:30 pm. Players of all levels are welcome. Advance sign up is encouraged using the duplicate bridge notebook at the Clubhouse Activities Office. A partner is required. For help in finding a partner or for more information contact Don Fuller dfuller627@yahoo.com July 10: 1st Ralph Ritter & Judy Robertson; 2nd Marge Kniat & Judy Marine; 3rd Jim Ford & Pat Foster MAH JONGG Mah Jongg players with one to two years or more experience are sought to join our group that meets on Wednesday afternoons at the HFC from 2 - 4 pm. This group is not on hiatus during the summer! For further information, contact Myrna Soberman at myrnaandsteve@gmail.com.
SINGLES CLUB 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. 29 people attended the July meeting. The group discussed future lunches, dinners, and other activities. The group wrapped up its Christmas in July benefit for Senior Orphans. All the items on the Seniors’ wish lists were provided with gift cards being purchased with remaining cash. Single Mingle will be held on August 17 in the HFC Craft Room from 4 – 6 pm. Volunteers are needed to help set up and clean up. If you would like to take part in activities with other singles, attend the meeting on August 6. LAVA AUXILIARY By Chris Graves SAVE THE DATE! The next meeting will be October 18 at 6:30 pm at the Clubhouse near the stage. There is no August meeting. The Craft Fair is Saturday, October 21. As of this writing, there are a few vendor tables available. We will be looking for bakers as well. My personal experience of our craft shows is that we have a lot of fun. You can pick up an application at the Clubhouse activities desk. In a heartfelt June meeting, Missy Prescott presented Daniel DiMarco with a $3,000 check for Soldiers' Freedom Outdoors; thus recognizing their dedicated efforts in honoring veterans and providing support to their families. The organization provides transformative equine programs and outdoor activities. We recognize and appreciate their commitment to fostering healing, 31 connection, and resilience among those who have served. The funds were raised at last year's Craft Fair. Thank you to all who attended and participated. Have a safe and fun summer. God Bless America! LA TRAVELERS By Laurie Clayton The Lake Ashton Travelers held their last rally before the summer break at Canopy Oaks RV Resort. It was a well planned and fun filled week of bocce ball and corn hole championships, a trivia contest, a pot luck dinner and a friendly round of golf. The next adventure will be October 8-11 in Webster Florida. They would love to have any other Lake Ashton residents who enjoy “camping” to join with your rig and become a member of the LA Travelers. For answers to any questions please contact Maureen Sim at 863-604-0309. LA ROCKERS By Connie Strassberg The administrators of LA Rockers want to thank everyone in the Lake Ashton community who came out and generously supported our Fourth of July fundraiser. Our mission statement is that "one message at just the right moment can change someone's entire day, outlook, and life" -- your message back to us is to keep doing what we are doing. Thank you! During the month of August we will not hold regular meetings -- we will be working and teaching at Camp Lake Ashton instead. Starting in September, we will meet twice a month on the first and the third Wednesdays of the month. Meetings are from 2 to 4 pm at the HFC. We look forward to seeing you all in September.
MIND&BODY Know Thy Health By Lynda Hadley Muscles are for moving. Did you know that if you don’t move; or if you become sedentary; your muscles will begin to waste away? Not only that, but your muscles will shorten as well, reducing your flexibility and strength. Have you ever danced the night away only to get up the next morning feeling stiff and sore? The next time you’re out at one of our many dances, you might decide it’s best to watch from the comfort of your seat. It seems like an obvious conclusion, but that is a mistake. Your body is really telling you that your muscles are weak and lack conditioning. It’s a sign that you may not be doing enough physical activity to maintain good muscle tone and flexibility. Other issues can contribute to sore and stiff muscles like a poor diet, circulation issues, lack of flexibility, etc. But movement is what your body needs to stay moving …“a body in motion stays in motion”. Movement is important for: Better Circulation: Your heart pumps blood to the body; but muscle movement is needed to efficiently return blood back to the heart for cleaning and recirculating. Heart Health: Your heart is a muscle that never gets a day off. SUMMER SIGN LANGUAGE Relaxed format for beginners — Tuesdays in the Clubhouse Card Room from 12:45 to 1:45 pm and Thursdays in the Clubhouse Craft Room from 6:30 to 7:30 pm until August 31. AMATEUR RADIO L ICENSE CLASS The Lake Ashton Amateur Radio Association is trying to judge if residents are interested in a Technician licensing class September 5, 12, and 19 at the HFC Poker Room. After completion, 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 interested, send your name, phone number and email address to DBishop1867@gmail.com. We are also offering to assist anyone wishing to upgrade to a General Class license, so if you would like this type of assistance please let us know and we will get you together with an Elmer (Ham Tutor) who is willing to assist you by emailing a note to the above address. We may also do that for people wishing to get a Technician license if there are not enough people interested to hold a full class. It only gets stronger with movement; especially the kind that increase your breathing rate. Brain Health: Your brain benefits from increased circulation and will reward you with clearer thinking, better memory recall and stress reduction. There are so many benefits of being more active. And with so many choices here at Lake Ashton; what are you waiting for? Start slow by walking after dinner; you’ll notice better digestion and sleep. Then challenge yourself more by attending one of the many classes and clubs offered here; like line dancing, exercise class, gentle yoga, water volleyball, etc. Challenge your body to not only move more, but move differently. Your heart will thank you! 32 SUMMER LINE DANCING CLASS Instructor: Lorrie Shearin Class will be held every Thursday at the HFC through September 28. 1 pm Beginners: Everyone is welcome, no experience needed. Dances will be easy and fun, dances used at River Ranch will be taught. 2 pm Improvers: Dances will have tags, restarts, turns, and maybe faster. Some experience may help, but everyone can try and learn new dances that may seem more advanced. Sometimes they are easier than they look. Note: Wear shoes you can dance in! No flip flops or Crocs. FINANCIAL BOOT CAMP Next Class: August 28 at 10:30 am in the Clubhouse Cinema Topic: “How can I protect what I have? Do I have enough to last my lifetime?” Sign up online or at the Clubhouse Activities Office.
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CHERYL’S DANCE CLASS Come join us for a fun dance class meant just to enjoy dancing and friendships. Class is open to all and is held weekly, however, come when you can! Starting Thursday, August 17, 10 to 11:30 am at the HFC basketball courts. Call or email if interested: cwinchester1012@gmail.com or 305-725-4946. The first hour will be dedicated to fun dancing, followed by learning the Thriller dance for Halloween. BOB ROSS OIL PAINTING Instructor: Kay Lenherr August 12 at 1 pm Clubhouse Craft Room Geraniums $35 (payable at class) Sign up online or at the Clubhouse Activities Office by noon on August 11. CERAMIC CHICKS 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. CREATE A CARD Join the group on August 15 at 10 am in the HFC Sports Court 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. Cost is $10. Sign up at the HFC. Call Karen at 262-497-3272 with questions. SKINCARE & MAKEUP CLASS Do you know what makeup colors and shades fit you best? Are you using the right type of moisturizers and cleansers for your skin type? You can learn all that and more at a skincare and makeup class hosted by Lancôme on September 6 at 11:30 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom. The class is 34 completely free, but you must sign up online or at the Clubhouse Activities Office BRUSHES AND BEVERAGES Create a delightful wall painting, hand-painted by you! For $35, each painter will be receiving step-by-step instructions to create a 16x20 canvas painting and will be supplied with a 16x20 canvas, acrylic paints, and brushes. This event will take place on September 8 at 3 pm in the Clubhouse Ballroom. Sign up at the Clubhouse Activities Office with a check by September 4 to reserve your spot. You won’t want to miss this; a maximum of 30 people can sign up but a minimum of 10 people is needed! CRAFTING WITH CARMEN — RUSTIC WREATHS Carmen is back with another home décor craft! Make your own 10-inch rustic wreath on September 29 at 11:30 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom. Learn how to quick-stain and distress wood for that rustic look that is so in style. All supplies and instructions are included for $12. Sign up online or at the Clubhouse Activities Office. SEASONAL FLORAL FRAMES Join resident crafter and floral enthusiast Pam Klawinski October 3 at 11:30 am to make your very own unique seasonal décor! In this class you will learn how to arrange seasonal colored florals on an 8x10 picture frame that will be interchangeable for every season and holiday! This month’s class will be for fall covering both Halloween and Thanksgiving. If you participated in the last class and received a frame, be sure to bring that frame back to the class. All instructions and materials will be provided for $16. Sign up online or at the Clubhouse Activities Office. Next Class: December 5
Woodstock Party featuring Live Music by Paisley Craze August 18 7 pm Clubhouse Ballroom Tickets: $16 on sale at the Clubhouse Activities Office
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