L.A. TIMES Lake Ashton Community Newsletter December 2022 DON'T MISS THE HOLIDAY PARADE DECEMBER 16 p. 22 - Wallace Bruce Warmest Holiday Wishes! 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
NEWSLETTER STAFF Christine Wells Editor cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com 863.324.5457 Valerie McCutcheon Advertising Sales, Layout & Design valerie@lakeashtoncdd.com SUBMISSION GUIDELINES January Issue Deadline: December 12 • 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 SUPPORT ANY PARTICULAR POLITICAL CANDIDATE, PARTY, MEASURE OR ISSUE, OR ANY PRODUCT OR SERVICE. DECEMBER 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 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 Vicki Moore, Manager RV & Storage Center 863.325.0065 manager@lakeashtonhoa.org 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 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 with your friends and neighbors at 9 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom. Coffee & donuts are available for $2. DECEMBER 5 • Birthdays and Anniversaries • Jingle Bell Jog and Pancake Breakfast to Benefit Victory Ridge Academy • Special Musical Guest - Lake Ashton's Ladybugs! • Featured Vendors: Christine Graves Insurance and Edward Jones - Melissa Kincaid DECEMBER 12 • Bite Me Monday - Donations for Humane Society of Polk County • Blast from the Past with David Harrison • Victory Ridge Musical Performance - Santa's Workshop • Featured Vendors: ComForCare, Miller’s Central Air, Edward Jones - Matt Simpson • Ugly Sweater Contest — wear the ugliest most festive holiday sweater you can make or find. The resident with the best sweater (crowd favorite) will win a prize! DECEMBER 19 NO MONDAY COFFEE — LACDD BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETING Peanut Butter Monday - Non-Perishable Food Donations for Lake Wales Care Center Can be Dropped Off to the Ballroom Kitchen DECEMBER 26 NO MONDAY COFFEE — MERRY CHRISTMAS! IN THIS ISSUE NEWS 6 LA LOOKS 16 SAFETY 18 MOVIES 20 EVENTS 24 GOLF 28 CLUBS 32 MIND & BODY 38 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETINGS LAKE ASHTON (LW) CDD Monday, December 19, 9:30 am Clubhouse Ballroom LAKE ASHTON II (WH) CDD Friday, January 20, 9 am Health & Fitness Center JOINT MEETING TO FOLLOW 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
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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, 11 am to 4 pm (or by appointment) HFC OFFICES & ACTIVITIES DESK: 8 am – 4 pm Monday through Friday HEALTH & FITNESS CENTER: 5:30 am – 10 pm daily HOLIDAY CLOSINGS • Christmas: The Clubhouse and HFC Offices will be closed on Friday, December 23 and Monday, December 26. There will be no Photo IDs made at the Clubhouse the week of December 26. • New Year’s Day: The Clubhouse and HFC Offices will be closed Friday, December 30 and Monday, January 2, 2023. HOLIDAY TRASH PICKUP - NO CHANGE Christmas and New Year's Day holidays do not impact the regular service schedule for Lake Ashton residents. Lake Wales residents will put their trash out Thursday evening for pickup on Friday and Winter Haven residents will put their trash out on Sunday evening for pickup on Monday morning, as usual. NEXT MONTHLY MARKETS: December 14 & 28 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 December 14 & 28, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm (closed for lunch 12:30 to 1:15), Clubhouse West Parking Lot FOOD TRUCKS In the Clubhouse West Parking Lot - stay tuned to media for additions, changes, and menus! 12/1 - Smokin' Oak 4 - 7 pm 12/5 - Top Dog 1 - 6 pm 12/7 - DonutNV 6 - 9 pm 12/15 Sikes Southern BBQ 4 - 7 pm 12/19 Top Dog 1 - 6 pm 12/20 Topsy's Soul Food 4 - 7 pm 12/21 K&E Italian Kitchen 4-7 pm NEW RESIDENT SOCIAL The next New Resident Social is January 18 at 2 pm in the Clubhouse. Sign up at either Activities Desk. Clubs and groups who want to set up a table, email cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com to reserve a spot. DISCOVER LAKEASHTONLIVING.COM By Iris Realmuto LakeAshtonLiving.com is a resident-run, comprehensive private community website for all Lake Ashton residents. Come to one of the presentations below at the Clubhouse Cinema and learn all about the features of the website including the resident directory, marketplace (classifieds), event calendar, discussion groups, and CDD, HOA, club, and activity information. Iris will answer all your questions and provide insight into what’s available to Lake Ashton residents. January 6 at 9 am, January 9 at 1 pm, January 27 at 1:30 pm, February 7 at 9 am. Please note that this website is not affiliated with the LACDD or LAIICDD.
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LACDD NEWS By Christine Wells, LA (LW) CDD Community Director LACDD BOA R D O F SUP E RVISO R S CONTA CT INF O Michael Costello Clubhouse Facilities including Outdoor Amenities (Dog Park, Pool, Sports Courts) 863-875-9228 or 732-718-7431, mcostello@lakeashtoncdd.com Lloyd Howison Golf Cart Paths, Bridges and all Ponds 704-302-6555, lhowison@lakeashtoncdd.com Steve Realmuto 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 Reserve Study and HOA Liaison 863-268-8193, dlandgrebe@lakeashtoncdd.com What a wonderful time of year for residents to reflect on how lucky they are to live in such a beautiful and caring community. Enjoy time with friends and family while basking in the beautiful Florida sun this holiday season. The community entrance and Clubhouse are decked out with lights and holiday décor to add to the festivity of the season. Thank you to the volunteers that help with decorating. There are several activities scheduled such as the Annual Holiday parade, Christmas Dinner Dance, and a Rockin' New Year's Eve Party, in the Ballroom. In addition, residents can celebrate Hanukkah with friends and neighbors by attending the outdoor Menorah lighting in the Clubhouse East parking lot. Some of the most rewarding community traditions involve volunteering and giving to those in need. Think about donating to a local charity, dropping off a gift to the Caring Tree, volunteering your time at a local food bank, or helping out a friend or neighbor in need. While it is the traditional season for celebrating, some in the community are in emotional pain and struggling to get through the month. Grieving friends and neighbors can use some extra care during the holidays. Those who have recently lost loved ones can be helped by others being supportive and inclusive. Suggestions from hospice professionals: invite a neighbor along to a community celebration, ask if they are interested in volunteering, offer to help with decorating or baking, send a special holiday card, or be willing to listen. Lake Ashton is known for being a caring community and there is no better time of year to care for thy neighbor. The Board of Supervisors met on November 28 to review Restaurant proposals. A wrap up report will be sent after the meeting to inform residents of actions taken. A joint Board of Supervisors meeting will be held on January 20 to discuss the Joint Amenity Facilities Policy. Visit lakeashtoncdd.com to find minutes, agendas, and meeting schedule. Supervisors and Staff would like to wish residents a happy holiday season and best wishes for the New Year! Congratulations to the New CDD Board Members Supervisor Brenda Van Sickle was sworn in and joined the LACDD Board of Supervisors on November 28. Supervisor Mike Costello and Supervisor Debby Landgrebe were re-elected to serve an additional 4-year term on the LACDD Board of Supervisors. Congratulations to all newly elected and re-elected Supervisors!
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LAIICDD NEWS By Mary Bosman, LAIICDD Community Director LA II CDD B O ARD O F SU P ERVISO RS CONTA CT INF O Jim Mecsics, Chairman - Public Safety, Security, Amenities and District Support, Public Works, Infrastructure, Wetland Resident Project 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 - Budget, Planning 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 questions that might come up and not rely on rumors. Roy Aull has been elected to the vacant position on the LA II CDD Board of Supervisors. His extensive background experience will prove to be extremely helpful to the existing Board. His contact information will be available after he is sworn into office at the meeting on November 29th. There will be no Board meeting the month of December. There’s a ton of activities to help celebrate the season at Lake Ashton. Private parties and large events will have the community bustling getting to and from them all. Please take the time and drive safely. If you bring your golf cart, please allow for 2 carts per parking slot in the parking lots. If you know of someone who is having a difficult time emotionally, extra time to talk or share some good memories could really help. Happy Holidays! No matter how you celebrate or don’t celebrate this time of year, the LA II Board of Supervisors and staff want to wish you the very best for 2023! Time seems to go by faster each year, so make sure to enjoy each and every day. The Joint Board of Supervisors met and tasked the Clubhouse and the HFC Activities staffs to do scheduling only thru January until the next Joint meeting occurs when they will hopefully approve the new Joint Amenities Policies. More detailed information will be provided before the rescheduling week begins this month. Residents won’t need to come in again to extend their event schedules after the meeting on the 20th of January, just mark a box that will automatically extend the reservation after the Joint Boards meet and formally approve the procedures. Please ask staff at either location for answers to your
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HOSTING FAMILY FOR THE HOLIDAYS? December is a traditional time for residents to host family and friends. Remember, when you see a visiting grandchild, they are guests of your neighbors so please extend every courtesy possible. Residents: please be tolerant of extra activity at the pool and other Clubhouse amenities. Those hosting family should remind them to be considerate of residents in this 55 and older community. It is helpful if a resident accompanies their guests at any of the amenities, but is not required. Anyone using amenities at the Clubhouse or HFC should have a Lake Ashton Resident ID Card or Facilities Guest Pass. Register guests at either Activities Desk during business hours. Security can also issue guest passes after business hours — call 863-324-7290 and a roving patrol officer will meet you at the Clubhouse. Residents must bring at least one adult guest to sign the form. Renters must have a copy of their rental agreement. TOYS FOR TOTS By Fred Halde We enter a season where lists abound! There are lists for presents. There are lists for food. There are lists of community holiday events. There are lists for personal gatherings and parties. If your refrigerator (or desk) is like mine, there are sticky notes everywhere, of people, places, and programs I need to remember. However, I also hope that somewhere…on one of those lists … you have the words …”Toys for Tots”. This community outreach is unique in that it has a “hands-on” component to it. It’s simple…we place a toy in the box. Toys for Tots places it into a hands of a young person. Secondly, our giving meets the needs of the most vulnerable in our society. A child can only depend on those who care for them. So as you make your lists, may giving to “Toys for Tots” find its way onto a sticky note and into the hands of a smiling child. Our box to receive your donations is at the HFC and will be there till mid-Dec. And on our list are the words, “Thank-you”. Sponsored by Rotary on the Ridge. Contact: Fred Halde (231-343-0638, haldepcusa@gmail.com) CARING TREE By Larry & Joanne Hillock Thank you to everyone who has placed their new, unwrapped gifts under the tree in the Clubhouse Ballroom. They will bring happiness for the holidays to deserving families in our area. The Lake Wales Care Center greatly appreciates your generosity. The tags on the tree are suggestions for gifts, but feel free to donate whatever you feel an infant through teenager would like. Books, stocking stuffers, clothing, personal care items and sports equipment are always welcome. The Care Center is always looking for people to assists with gift wrapping. If you or your club or group are interested, please contact them at 863-676-6678. Just a reminder, the last day to bring your gifts is December 16.
DO N O T FEED SANDHILL CRANES In 2002, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission made illegal to intentionally feed sandhill (Florida Administrative 68A-4.001(6)). Florida sandhill have an abundance of natural foods (insects and small animals) and they do not need handouts from humans. Cranes fed by humans can become aggressive toward people. In several instances, children have been attacked by cranes. Cranes also have been known to damage window screens, scratch windows or vehicles, and do other property damage. Cranes attracted to people's yards for feed are put at risk as they walk across roads. Many sandhill cranes are killed each year on Florida roads. Furthermore, the cranes' diets, which normally are quite diverse, are disrupted when they eat one food item (such as corn), consistently. Heavy pesticide use in urban lawns also is of 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. concern. Young sandhill cranes have died from pesticide poisoning. People may inadvertently put sandhill cranes at risk when they attract them with feed. This includes "accidental feeding," such as when bird seed is spilled from bird feeders onto the ground below. For more information, visit myfwc.com/conservation/youconserve/wildlife/ sandhill-cranes/. AT T E N T I O N C L U B H O U S E GROUP FACILITATORS On December 1 group facilitators will receive an email with an electronic form to complete in order to renew recurring reservations at the Clubhouse for 2023. Facilitators have until December 15 to submit the form to secure their current date and time. Contact Office Manager Sheila Moreland with questions at smoreland@lakeashtoncdd.com or 863.324.5457. Please note it is up to the facilitator to reach out to staff to renew their reservation. This is not done automatically.
LA LOOKS LA (LW) HOA BOARD OF DIRECTORS (BOD) Contact Information Management Company: Don Asher Michellette Ramos: manager@lakeashtonhoa.org President/Treasurer Bob Prowant president@lakeashtonhoa.org Vice President Nancy Baker vp@lakeashtonhoa.org Secretary Tom Hevel secretary1@lakeashtonhoa.org Secretary2 David Muller secretary2@lakeashtonhoa.org Secretary3 Steve Hogan secretary3@lakeashtonhoa.org LA ( LW) HOA CORNER By Steve Hogan When we purchased our homes in Lake Ashton, the curb appeal of the homes in our community was one of the key factors we all considered. Communities with fantastic curb appeal have consistently the highest resale value and are better places in which to live. Builders recognize this value and make the obligation to maintain the appearance of the community a part of the obligations of each purchaser. In the case of Lake Ashton, each homeowner becomes a party to a document called the Master Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, commonly called the "CC&Rs." Everyone receives a copy when they purchase a home in Lake Ashton. A major portion of the CC&Rs is devoted to rules governing the exterior appearance of our homes. The CC&Rs requi re that a Homeowners Association — the "HOA" — be established to carry out the requirements of the CC&Rs once the builder is no longer in the picture. On November 13, the homeowners were given the opportunity to vote on a "cleaned-up" version of the CC&Rs, intended to make changing it easier going forward. The community vote on the Restated and Amended CC&Rs passed. The threshold for a quorum of 10% was exceeded as 35.8% of the community voted. The vote tally was 276 for and 61 against. The threshold for approval was 66.6% of those voting and 81.9% was achieved. The Board thanks those members that participated in the vote and also thanks the CC&R Committee for an outstanding effort! Here in Lake Ashton, our HOA's primary responsibility is to ensure that Lake Ashton remains a beautiful place to live. The CC&Rs require that the HOA establish an Architectural Review Committee — the "ARC" — to assist homeowners in maintaining and beautifying their property consistent with Lake Ashton's community standards. Over the years, the ARC has published "Guidelines" to help clarify those standards. These Guidelines are not intended to be overly restrictive or burdensome but rather to give the Homeowner a well-thought-through framework within which to work and eliminate unnecessary stress. A special meeting was held November 14 by the HOA and the ARC with homeowner participation to review the latest revision of the Guidelines. This revision has been over a year in the making and is intended to make it easier and less stressful for the homeowners. Earlier this year, your HOA implemented ARC Tracker to allow homeowners to easily submit requests to the ARC online and receive approvals much more quickly than previously. These revised Guidelines are the next step in our efforts to make the process as simple and accommodative as possible. Your HOA wants to hear your feedback and plans to review the Guidelines as the needs of Lake Ashton change. Please let us know what you think.
Wildlife Corner Photo & Article By Barbara Ann Comer The Green Heron is a secretive and sassy heron with a lot of personality. Although their plumage actually consists of a variety of colors, these small herons are mainly a dark greenish on the back and crown with a chestnut colored neck. This rather common heron has short yellow legs that become quite orange in the males during breeding season. The young birds are heavily streaked. Green Herons can be quite vocal at times making loud chicken-like clucks and a loud "kyow" as they fly away. This usually solitary heron often perches on branches in the water leaning out as far as possible to snatch a small minnow as it unsuspectingly swims by. The neck that appears short most of the time can extend farther than the viewer expects. They frequently raise their crowns sporting a "bad hair day" look. THE ROLE OF HERBICIDES IN WATERBODY MANAGEMENT The application of herbicides is a necessity in order to halt the enormous development of invasive vegetation, which is wreaking havoc on an ecosystem that is fragile. Without control, nuisance and invasive vegetation depletes aquatic ecosystems of dissolved oxygen, releases hazardous quantities of phosphorus, blocks sunlight, and suffocates native plant and animal life. In order to receive Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registration for aquatic use, the chemicals used for lake and pond management If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to email Matt Fisher at MFisher@lakeashtoncdd.com. Native Flowers of Central Florida By Lynn Davis Muhly Grass is an ornamental grass native to Florida and eastern states. It can grow to 3-4 feet in height and 2-3 feet in width. It grows in clumps and its flower stalks bring a beautiful pink or purple airy look to any landscape usually beginning in August and ending in December. The grass can be cut back in December, but if you wait until early spring, it’ll provide a winter interest. It’s best to divide the grass every 2-3 years. The grass is often planted near fences or in borders for better show. Muhly grass is super easy to grow and nearly maintenance free. Once established it is drought tolerant, takes heat, and is forgiving to poor soils. Though it likes sun, it tolerates shade too. There is another variety called “White Cloud” if pink isn’t for you. Take a ride around the LA pavilion for a closer look. It was recently planted by the LA Garden Club. For more information visit Florida Native Plant Society. are subjected to years of research and intensive monitoring. When treating local bodies of water, the vendor for aquatic management contracted by the Lake Ashton CDD does so in accordance with the appropriate mixing ratios.
SAFETY NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH By Fay Wood, NW Chief Many new residents and others have wondered how Lake Ashton’s total inclusive (Lake Wales & Winter Haven) NW Program has become so well known and successful for so many years. It’s really very simple: the program was designed after much research and team building. It included ALL residents, ALL Leadership groups (CDDs, HOAs, Management Teams, other safety conscious groups (Security Guards, Citizen Assisted Patrols, CERTS; Crime Stoppers, Ham Radio Operators) and other stakeholders in Lake Ashton and in Law Enforcement. NW has received public accolades from The Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Lake Wales and Winter Haven Police Departments, along with the Mayors and City Commissioners. As your proud NW Chief I want to thank ALL for your teamwork and support of our entire Lake Ashton Community family. It is because of ALL OF YOU that Neighborhood Watch remains the success that it is today with more exciting programs to come. Happy & Healthy New Year to ALL! Facts About National Neighborhood Watch Neighborhood Watch is undoubtedly one of the oldest and most well-known crime prevention programs in history. While the modern day concept of this program rose to prominence in the late 1960s in response to an increasing burglary rate, the roots of Neighborhood Watch can actually be traced all the way back to the days of Colonial settlements, when night watchmen patrolled the streets. The modern version of the Neighborhood Watch - USAonWatch Program was developed as a result of the multiple requests from sheriffs and police chiefs around the country who were looking for a crime prevention program that would incorporate citizen involvement and address the increasing number of burglaries taking place, especially in rural and suburban areas. In 1972, the National Sheriffs' Association (NSA) took the concept a step further by seeking funding to make the program a national initiative. Thanks to a grant from the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration, the National Neighborhood Watch Program was started. For the first two years, the program was devoted primarily to disseminating information on the nature and volume of burglary and securing residential property and making it less vulnerable to break-ins. From there, it evolved into a program that promoted the establishment of ongoing local Neighborhood Watch groups that encouraged citizens to partner with their law enforcement agencies in an effort to reduce various types of "neighborhood crime.” Since its beginnings, Neighborhood Watch has grown from an "extra eyes and ears" approach to crime prevention to a much more proactive, community-oriented endeavor providing a unique infrastructure that brings together local officials, law enforcement, and citizens for the protection of their communities. Today's Watch Group programs incorporate activities that not only address crime prevention issues, but also restore pride and unity to a neighborhood. It is not uncommon to see members of Neighborhood Watch groups participating in community cleanups and other group activities that strive to improve the quality of life and safety ideas for community residents. In addition, the adoption of community policing by local law enforcement agencies has contributed to a resurgence in Watch groups over the years. Neighborhood Watch fits nicely into the framework of law enforcement/community partnerships, and Neighborhood Watch meetings provide a useful forum for airing neighborhood problems and practicing problem-solving techniques. While criminals have attempted to use this statistic to their advantage, law enforcement has uncovered an important reality: the communities in which citizens have observed and reported suspicious activity have enjoyed lower crime rates. As communities throughout the country have adopted the program and reported success, the popularity of the Neighborhood Watch Program has grown, and it continues to be the pride of Law Enforcement.
POND SAFETY REMINDER Visitors are not permitted to wade or release pets into any of the ponds located within Lake Ashton. Not only is there a potential of encountering alligators and venomous snakes, harmful germs may be present as well. The FWC recommends keeping pets 10' away from the water. Call the FWC's Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (392-4286) if you have concerns about an alligator that poses a threat to humans, pets or property. Remember, it is illegal to feed or harass alligators. CAP By Mike Weissberg Citizens Assisted Patrol (CAP) is always looking for more volunteers to patrol the streets once a week for two hours. Come help be the eyes, ears, and presence for the Sheriff’s department. Applications are available in the Clubhouse and HFC. More information: Mike Weissberg, 863-324-3541. ROAD SAFETY REMINDERS The shortest day of the year, the Winter Solstice, is December 21. When walking or bicycling, especially at night, remember to "Be Safe and Be Seen: Make Yourself Visible to Drivers.” Use lights and reflective gear. Those on bicycles should be riding with the flow of traffic, meaning they should always be on the right side of the road. Walkers/ runners should be going against the flow of traffic, always being on the left side of the road. 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. FREE IN-HOME ESTIMATES! FLOORING - BLINDS - SHUTTERS - SHOWER REMODELS 29710 US Hwy 27, Dundee 863-439-7500 www.jimsfloordepot.com
MOVI ES ALL TUESDAY SHOWINGS ARE CLOSED CAPTIONED + THE 11 AM WEDNESDAY SHOWING. CAPACITY: 55 DECEMBER 1 11 AM, 3 & 7 PM WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING 2022 | PG-13 | 2H 5MIN Kya is an abandoned girl who raised he r s e l f t o adu l t hood i n t he dangerous marshlands of North Carolina. For years, rumors of the "Marsh Girl" haunted Barkley Cove, isolating the sharp and resilient Kya from her community. Drawn to two young men from town, Kya opens herself to a new and startling world; but when one of them is found dead, she is immediately cast by the community as the main suspect. LARGEST SELECTION OF INDOOR & OUTDOOR FANS ANYWHERE! TRADITIONAL MODERN CONTEMPORAR ANS DECEMBER 6 — 8 11 AM, 3 & 7 PM THE SWIMMERS 2022 | PG-13 | 2H 14MIN Swimming sisters Yusra and Sarah Mardini have long wanted to compete in the Olympics, but civil war in Syria forces them to flee their homeland. After a perilous journey to Europe, the siblings join a newly formed refugee team to realize their dream of competing in the 2016 Olympics in Rio. DECEMBER 13 — 15 11 AM, 3 & 7 PM A CHRISTMAS STORY CHRISTMAS (NO 3 OR 7 PM SHOWING DECEMBER 14) 2022 | PG | 1H 38MIN More than 40 years after the holiday classic "A Christmas Story" debuted, this 1970s-set sequel finds a now-adult Ralphie returning to his childhood home to give his own children the same sort of magical Christmas he once experienced. Solar DC Mot WiFi Enabled Damp Ra No ailable Finishes! DECEMBER 20 — 22 11 AM, 3 & 7 PM SPIRITED 2022 | PG-13 | 2H 7MIN A hilarious modern musical update of the classic Charles Dickens story starring Ryan Reynolds, Will Ferrell, and Octavia Spencer. Design Y an Parts & Services Aailable In-Store Warranes Winer Haen 1104A Cypr d SE (Lampligh a) wancityom (863) 299-2777 20 DECEMBER 27 — 29 11 AM, 3 & 7 PM DISENCHANTED 2022 | PG | 2H 1MIN Years after their happily ever after, Giselle (Amy Adams), Robert (Patrick Dempsey) and Morgan move to a new community and Andalasia and the real world are thrown offbalance. Sequel to Disney’s Enchanted.
MAY 7 CLASSIC & SPECIAL INTEREST MOVIES ARE SHOWN IN THE CLUBHOUSE CINEMA ON FRIDAYS AT 11 AM & 3 PM Special Holiday DECEMBER 2 REMEMBER THE NIGHT 1940 | NR | 1H 34MIN Lee Leander is a petty shoplifter on trial for swiping an expensive bracelet from a local jewelry store. When her trial is postponed until after New Year's, sympathetic Assistant District Attorney John Sargent bails her out of jail. Together, they find themselves falling in love when he invites her to his family's home for the holidays where she discovers the warmth and love she's never had but always wanted. DECEMBER 9 AT 11 AM (NO 3 PM SHOWING) A CHRISTMAS STORY 1983 | PG | 1H 33MIN In this nostalgic look at Christmas in 1940s Indiana, 9-year-old Ralphie Parker desperately wants a "Red Ryder carbineaction, 200-shot Range Model air rifle." But first he'll have to wage an all-out campaign to convince his parents the toy is safe. DECEMBER 16 DIE HARD 1988 | R | 2H 12MIN NYPD cop John McClane's (Bruce Willis) plan to reconcile with his estranged wi fe, Hol ly (Bonnie Bedelia), is thrown for a serious loop when minutes after he arrives at her office, the entire building is overtaken by a group of pitiless terrorists. With little help from the LAPD, wisecracking McClane sets out to single-handedly rescue the hostages and bring the bad guys down. This classic John McTiernan actioner launched Willis into superstardom. 22 1946 | NR | 2H 12MIN It's a wonderful film. Frank Capra's inverted take on A Christmas Carol stars Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey, a good man who's spent a lifetime giving up on his dreams in order to keep life in his small town humming. When a guardian angel named Clarence finds a despondent George poised to jump off a bridge, he shows George what life would've been like had he never been born. December 30 at 3 pm NEW YEAR’S EVE 2011 | PG-13 | 1H 57MIN In this star-studded romantic comedy, the fates of a diverse group of New Yorkers are wound together on New Year's Eve -including one expectant couple hoping their baby will be the first to be born in the Big Apple after midnight. Starring Halle Berry, Jessica Biel, Jon Bon Jovi, Abigail Breslin, Ludacris, Robert De Niro, Josh Duhamel, Zac Efron, Hector Elizondo, Katherine Heigl, Ashton Kutcher, Seth Meyers, Lea Michele, Sarah Jessica Parker, Michelle Pfeiffer, Hilary Swank, Sofía Vergara, Ryan Seacrest, Cary Elwes, Matthew Broderick, John Lithgow, Sarah Paulson, Common, Alyssa Milano, Russell Peters, Jim Belushi, and more. Movie Showings December 23 at 3 pm IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE
EVENTS FALL FESTIVAL WRAP-UP What a turnout this year! It was truly wonderful to see so many happy faces meandering through the vendors at the festival and hear the laughter of those playing the games (especially Punkin’ Chunkin’). Thank you to all who came out, a big thank you to all the vendors, and a special thanks to sponsors Matt Simpson of Edward Jones, Core Rehabilitation, Art's Golf Cars, Family Elder Law, and Powur Energy. Can’t wait to see what next year holds, so mark your calendars for October 28, 2023! JINGLE BELL JOG By David Fix The Lake Ashton Charity Jingle Bell Jog will be held December 5. This 5K (3.1 mile) course will start and finish in the Clubhouse East Parking Lot. Registration is closed but everyone is invited to watch and cheer! Donations are still being accepted for Victory Ridge Academy. CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT Stop by the HFC and sign up for Holiday Cornhole Tourney on December 6 at 9 am. Teams will consist of two players who will be competing for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. This event is sponsored by Weaver Loveless Law. CARRABBAS DINNERS & KARAOKE Pick up your meal to go or eat in the Ballroom December 7 at 5 pm. Place your orders by 3 pm on December 6 by calling 863-293-6635. Payment can be made by credit card over the phone or by cash/ credit in person the day of directly to Carrabbas. · 2 for $30 - Homemade Chicken Marsala with garlic mashed potatoes and a side Caesar Salad, and bread with signature herbs and olive oil · 2 for $25 – Homemade Lasagna with a side Caesar salad, and bread with signature herbs and olive oil · Add 1 cannoli for $1 per person · Add a 32oz pitcher of sangria (blackberry, peach, or classic red) for $25 After picking up your dinner, stop by the restaurant fro karaoke with DJ Wayne in the Clubhouse Restaurant from 6 to 9 pm! Tickets are $3 at the Clubhouse Activities Office. LA ASHTONETTES By Gina Krall The LA Ashtonettes (pictured on front cover) have lead the Holiday Parade for many years marching and twirling from the HFC to the Clubhouse. Any former majorettes are welcome to join for this year's parade. Text 443.783.6191 or email ginakrall@yahoo.com. HOLIDAY GOLF CART PARADE DECEMBER 1 6 By Carolyn Bishop Line up at the HFC starts at 5:30 pm with the parade kick-off at 6. The parade ends at the Clubhouse with light refreshments. Decorated golf carts, bikes, cars and trucks are all welcome. Clubs and organizations are encouraged to decorate and participate too. Donations of baked goodies will be needed. Sign up at the Clubhouse Information Wall. Any questions please contact Carolyn Bishop at cbbishop61@gmail.com or 919-606-8844. CALLING ALL CRAFTERS! By Judith Ridpath The LA Purple Stars, your Relay For Life Team, will be sponsoring a booth selling hand crafted items at the December 14 Lake Ashton Bi-Monthly Market. 100% of the proceeds of all donated items sold will go to the American Cancer Society. Items are needed to fill the booth. If you have a craft you enjoy, please consider making one to donate, and share this info with your crafty friends. There are a limited amount of supplies available to share if needed. Contact Judy Ridpath at 650-678-1174 with any questions.
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FAITH XTREME CHRISTMAS CONCERT The Faith Xtreme Choir will be performing a Christmas concert for Lake Ashton on December 14 at 6 pm in the Clubhouse Ballroom. This is a multimedia event as they tell the Christmas Story through music, pictures, videos, and stories from the Bible. Please stop by the Clubhouse Activities Desk to pick up your free ticket. Seating is first come first served. There is no charge for this concert, but donations are encouraged and will be collected at the concert. NEW! LA TRIVIA By David Fix Join in for Trivia at the Clubhouse Sundays from 7 to 9 pm in the Ballroom. Hopefully this will be a Resident to Resident evening of fun to be held on a weekly basis. Maximum number of players per team is six. Individuals are encouraged to come and join an open table. Cost is $1 per person to play with all money returned to the top December 11 ENTERTAINMENT: Micah Madore December 18 ENTERTAINMENT: Corey Greenway of Outta Hand Band Tickets: $3 at the Clubhouse Activities Desk BYOE - Bring Your Own Everything to the clubhouse RESTAURANT for music and fun! there will be FOOD TRUCKS in the parking lot three teams. Three rounds of 10 questions will be played along with one final bonus question. Please come early as it will start promptly at 7 pm. BYOB! BYOSnacks! OUTDOOR MENORAH LIGHTING Hanukkah begins the evening of Sunday, December 18, and ends the evening of Monday, December 26. Everyone is welcome to celebrate Hanukkah, which is Hebrew for “dedication,” and also known as the Festival of Lights, by coming to an outdoor Menorah Lighting, on December 20 at 5:30 pm in the Clubhouse West Parking Lot. This is presented by the Chabad Jewish Center. LAPAC NEWS By Karen Nelson Hello all Lake Ashton residents! Your Lake Ashton Performing Arts Corporation continues work on the 2023 Community Showcase. Your friends and neighbors who have expressed interest in performing will soon learn what their roles are. Thank you to everyone for their interest in and commitment to this annual event. Positions are still available for the vital technical and backstage roles — the Showcase cannot be produced without these critical positions. Contact any resident associated with the Showcase to be connected with a director if you are interested. Please mark your calendars for the Showcase dates: Opening Night is Friday evening, March 24, 2023. The Matinee is Saturday, March 25, 2023, at 2 pm - there will be sign language interpreters at the Saturday Matinee, as well as an extended intermission. The Closing Night is Saturday evening, March 25, 2023. Watch the LA Times and your Lake Ashton emails for information on tickets, it won't be long before we are entertained in true Lake Ashton fashion!
Karen and I wish all of you the best of this holiday season Happy Hanukkah Merry Christmas …and may we all enjoy the best of good health and happiness throughout the New Year Curious about your home’s current market value? Call for a free Comparative Market Analysis. BRAD KIRWAN 863.280.0390 5% Commission 25
SALAD BAR, BISCUITS WITH SAUSAGE GRAVY, ROASTED CHICKEN & PORK WITH COLLARD GREENS & BLACK EYED PEAS, SHRIMP & GRITS, PENNE ALLA VODKA, SCRAMBLED EGGS WITH BACON & BREAKFAST POTATOES, PANCAKES, FRUIT & PASTRY BAR WITH BAGELS, COFFEE, & ORANGE JUICE. BRING YOUR OWN CHAMPAGNE OR BEVERAGES! TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE CLUBHOUSE ACTIVITIES OFFICE BRUNCH ALONE: $30 ROCKIN’ NEW YEAR’S EVE & BRUNCH: $75 Clubhouse Ballroom 11 am to 2 pm CHILI COOK-OFF By David Harrison The LA Purple Stars will have a chili cook-off as a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society January 20, 2023 from 4 to 6 pm in the Clubhouse Ballroom. This event was held last year and was a great success. There will be twenty different chilis, cornbread, water and a baked goods table. There will be separate sign up sheets at the Clubhouse Activities Desk for the chili cookers and baked goods which should be individually wrapped for the dessert table. Tasting tickets can also be purchased at the Clubhouse — 12 Tickets for a $10 donation, limited to 200 strips of 12. Each ticket allows you to taste one chili, so you should buy 24 tickets to taste all of them. Corn bread, water and dessert table are cash sales, $1/item. Don't miss this chance to warm up with many varieties of chili. There will be judges for the "best" chili and prizes will be awarded for first and second place. Questions? Call David Harrison 863-326-6418. 2023 ENTERTAINMENT SERIES TICKETS New season tickets are on sale at the Clubhouse Activities Office through December 22. Season tickets are sold only to Lake Ashton residents. There is a limit of one ticket per person. In order to expedite season ticket sales, please have a Lake Ashton photo identification on hand or a driver's license with a Lake Ashton address to purchase tickets with Visa, MasterCard or check payable to LACDD. Tickets cannot be put on hold — they are sold on a first-come, first-served basis. Lake Ashton Bus Trips Stop by the Clubhouse Activities Office to see what’s available — bring a check for Small World Tours. Rise and Shine with New Year's Day Brunch!
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LA Cruise-In JAN. 21, 2023 4 — 7 pm Shine up that chrome, scrub those tires, and rev those engines, it’s time for the Cruise-In again! Join us on January 21 from 4 pm to 7 pm in the West parking lot of the Clubhouse to enjoy food trucks, classic and modern cars alike, and live music from the Southbound Band. Cars will be judged and winners for each category presented with a prize! The classes are Best Classic (pre-1989), Best Modern (post-1989), and Crowd Favorite. Registration starts December 14 and ends January 13. Please pick up your registration forms at the Activities Office and indicate if you would like to enter your car to be judged. If you are attending the event, please be advised that parking will only be available in the east parking lot and golf cart parking will be in the circle drive per usual. LAKE ASHTON CLUB EXPO New residents and long time residents who want to make new friends or are interested in more information about Lake Ashton Clubs, Groups or Organizations, plan to attend this Expo on January 17 in the Clubhouse Ballroom from 10 am to 1 pm. Residents will be able to meet representatives, ask questions, sign up for membership or purchase tickets to club events. Light refreshments will be available for all attendees. Clubs, Groups, and Organizations interested in having a table must register via the online link that will be sent out via email blast after December 6. This is a great time to grow membership and attract new members whether you facilitate an exercise group, public safety group, sports activity, or arts and crafts group. Space is limited so don't wait to sign up at the Clubhouse Activities Office! Vint ag e Ro ads how Save the date for Lake Ashton’s first-ever Vintage Roadshow on January 25 at 5 pm! A group of very knowledgeable vendors will be in attendance to help share their knowledge of your beloved or unique antique/vintage/retro items. More information will be coming out about this fantastic event, keep an eye on email blasts and come to Monday Coffee to learn more about what categories will be available as well as how many residents can sign up for each category. SAVE THESE DATES ! • December 9 — Holiday Bash at the HFC with Rusty Trumpet • December 31 — HFC New Year’s Eve Party • January 13 — DJ Wayne Dance Party at the HFC • February 9 — Live Band Dance at the HFC • February 14 – Chapel of Love featuring Elvis! – Celebrate Valentines Day with the King at the Clubhouse • February 21 – Mardi Gras Party – Y’all gonna pardi hardi at the Clubhouse • February 28— Silent Disco at the Clubhouse • March 10 — Shamrock Party at the HFC • March 17 & 18 — BOLLA’s Trash to Treasure Fundraiser Sale at the Clubhouse • March 21 — Fires of Georgia Dance Performance at the Clubhouse • March 24 & 25 — LAPAC’s Community Showcase at the Clubhouse • March 29 — Pub Crawl at the Clubhouse • April 1 — Happy Birthday to You … And You … at the Clubhouse • April 21 — Battle of the Decades at the Clubhouse
GOLF LALGA By Lydia Fichtman The Pink Ribbon Dance and Golf Tournament dominated the beginning of November. What a tremendous success all around, surpassing the 2021 donation of $34,000 to the Watson Clinic Foundation. This year the Pink Ribbon fundraisers brought in $46,691.51! Congratulations to co-chairs Kim Kutsch, Lydia Fichtman and the entire committee for their endless energy and dedication to this cause. A special shoutout to all the participants, sponsors, donors and volunteers! We could not have done it without you! The Pink Ribbon committee would like to thank the following Platinum Sponsors for their support: Arabella’s, Bargain Carts, Bock & Hoeft, Brewers Golf Carts, EdCredible, Gessler Clinic, Good Shepherd Hospice, Heartland Insulation & Acoustic, Lake Ashton Swim Club, Mutual of Omaha, RayL Engineering, Snowbird Heating and Air Conditioning, Sun Protection of Florida, Weaver Loveless Law and Yellowstone Landscaping. If you are in need of any of the services they offer please support them. In addition, our very own Bob Yeager had a “Hole in One” on 3 West, winning a free AC from Snowbird Air. In lieu of his free air conditioner from Snowbird, he chose to make a significant donation to Pink Ribbon! Thank you, Bob! November 15 was the LALGA Opening Day featuring the theme “Homecoming 2022, Welcome Back to Lake Ashton.” The day included a “Scramble with a Twist” followed by a luncheon at the Nest including Tomato Basil Soup, Pulled Pork and Chicken Sliders, Chips, Coleslaw, and a brownie with ice cream for dessert. Congratulations to “T” Utting, Dori Krogman, Tassy DeAngelo, Jane Fuller and Pat Hodges for setting this up. Finally, We Care for Kids brought in 200 pounds of food for the Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive. Lake Ashton’s generosity never fails to disappoint! Kudos to Nancy Zografos for her leadership of this activity. Thank you Lake Ashton for your support of all these events! DON’T FORGET: The Annual Toy Drive is taking place right now. Bring your unwrapped toys to the Pro Shop by December 7 for them to be delivered in time to those in need. The members of the LALGA wish all of you Happy Holidays and a wonderful New Year. May 2023 be brighter, better and healthier than 2022! 30
LAMGA By Paul Fichtman November’s featured event was “Beat the Board” held on November 9. The format was “2 Best Nets”. The Board scored 129 and was surpassed by 4 out of 9 foursomes who posted scores of 121, 124, 124 and 126, respectively. Mark your calendars! The Annual Meeting/Luncheon is being held on Wednesday, December 7 immediately following that day’s LAMGA event. Please note that all LAMGA members are invited to attend the Annual Meeting and Luncheon, even if you are not able to play in that day’s event. There were three open seats on the LAMGA Board for 2023 and three candidates nominated themselves to serve on the Board. This situation dictated that there was not a need to hold the election and that the three nominated candidates would be installed on the board. The new Board members will be announced and introduced at the Annual Meeting/Luncheon. This month the following Insurance and Financial Service providers are thanked for their unstinting support of the Member/Guest tournament: Amerity Financial (Burris Warner); Chris Bruser – Reverse Mortgage Specialist, Mutual of Omaha; Christine Graves Insurance, Inc.; Element Funding; and Zinsmeister Insurance. You can find a list of all our sponsors posted on the LAMGA web site, Lake Ashton Living, and Talk of Lake Ashton. Please support them with your business. The 2022 Red Hoagland Hyundai Challenge concluded on October 31. The four winners for the season are 1st Place - Jim Simpson - $187.55; 2nd Place – Donn Yasz - $185.75; 3rd Place – Duff Hill - $157.35; and 4th Place – Paul Panone - $156.75. These four winners will receive $80, $60, $40 & $20, respectively in Pro Shop credits. Thanks, as always, to Red Hoagland Hyundai for their multi-year sponsorship of this very popular annual contest. Please consider Red Hoagland Hyundai the next time you are looking to purchase a vehicle. December schedule: December 7 – Individual Quota Points, includes Annual Meeting/Luncheon (see above); December 14 – Pick Your Foursome, 1 Gross/2 Nets; December 21 – In the Box, 3 nets; December 28 – Pick 10 Holes. The LAMGA wishes all Lake Ashton residents and their families a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and a Prosperous New Year! LA NINERS By Marti Schmidt So much has happened since the last issue. OPENING DAY was October 18 with 68 players on the entire West course. Lunch was delicious – thanks Vickie and the Eagle’s Nest staf f – games were played, and fun ensued. The PINK RIBBON TOURNAMENT November 8 was a big success again this year with 248 players. There was one winning all-woman team placing 3rd net in their Flight: Missy Prescott, Janice Serencko, Vickie Olesen and Marti Schmidt. Way to go Niners! HURRICANE NICOLE came through early morning November 10 - here’s hoping all of you survived with minimal impact. COMING SOON – look for photo updates on the Eagle’s Nest bulletin board near the stairs. Still have questions? Are you ready to join? Contact Janet at jan.mutz@gmail.com for more info! If you make a holein-one, send your name, date, hole, and course number to be featured in the LA Times to valerie@lakeashtoncdd.com
CLUBS ST. AUGUSTINE OR BUST By Carolyn Bishop T h e L a k e A s h t o n Tr a v e l e r s invaded St. Augu s t i ne t h i s p a s t Novembe r with one of the biggest rallies this FMCA Chapter has ever had with 27 RVs taking over the Ocean Grove RV Resort in Saint Augustine. A private trolley tour around historic St Augustine was one of the highlights of the trip. As always, good food and great friendships were shared at the rally. For more information about the LA Travelers, come join the Tuesday afternoon Socials at the Clubhouse Ballroom from 3:30 to 5 pm. LA BELLES CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON/PARTY By Donna Debnar Get your bows and bells and jump on your sleigh and head down to The Jacaranda for a little celebration Friday, December 16 at 4:30 p.m. No gift exchange. Bring a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots. Sign up at the Clubhouse or HFC (see sign up sheet for ride-share). The Jacaranda, 19 E Main Street, Avon Park 33825. LA DEMOCRATIC CLUB By Shelley Miller The Lake Ashton Democratic Club is holding their next monthly meeting December 1 in-person at the HFC. Social time with snacks will be from 4 to 4:30 pm. Please bring your own beverage. The inperson general meeting will begin at 4:30 pm. Email lakeashtondemocraticclub@gmail.com for more information. 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. In November, the group discussed the fun Halloween Party hosted by Greg (pictured above). Plans were discussed for Thanksgiving dinner at the Lake Wales Country Club, a lunch at Jacaranda in January and lunch at Grillsmith in Lakeland in December. The Single Mingle held on the third Thursday of the month will be held in the Pavilion. Funds were collected for the Christmas gifts for 12 Senior Orphans. The gifts should be wrapped and brought to the December meeting. If you would like to take part in activities with other singles, attend the meeting on December 4.
BOLLA By Linda Warden SWIM CLUB Blankets of Love Lake Ashton will be hosting the Annual Trash To Treasure Sale March 14, 2023 through Saturday March 18, 2023. The collecting of items to be sold will begin Tuesday, March 14 in the Clubhouse Ballroom. The sale will begin for Lake Ashton residents only on Friday, March 17, then open to the public on Saturday, March 18. This is a major fundraiser for BOLLA and a big event for Lake Ashton. Save the date on your 2023 Calendar! Volunteers to help moving larger items, transporting to vehicles, and assistance where needed are most welcome. Check next month’s LA Times for more information. BOLLA provides blankets and ponchos to children and teens in crisis in Polk County Schools and other Agencies. Over 800 blankets and ponchos have been delivered this year! SEW WHAT & SO MUCH MORE By Gretchen Frantz The name Sew What and SO Much More describes the varied crafts enjoyed by the members. In this photo are the 434 (and counting) hats to be donated to elementary schools in Lake Wales and Winter Haven, Victory Ridge Academy and the Lake Wales Care Center Caring Tree. Knitted, crocheted or woven on a loom, miles of yarn have gone into these gifts. Donations of regular, 4ply yarn is always appreciated. Other charity projects include dozens of afghans for Hospice, pillows sewn for patients at Advent Health Hospital and crocheted edging on blankets and ponchos for BOLLA. Members are also working on projects with cross stitch, needlepoint, card stitching, diamond dot painting. All Lake Ashton residents are welcome to come share their interests or try something new. Sew What and SO Much More meets every Thursday from 1-3 pm in the HFC Craft Room. Questions? Contact facilitator Gretchen Frantz at 863-875-0195. 33 By Sandy White There's a lot of fitness going on at the HFC indoor pool. Chip Inman takes part in the club's 100 Mile Challenge. He swam to Daytona & back (and never left our pool), and most recently to Ft. Lauderdale. That's over 300 miles so far! Cathy Liska, Sandy Papineau, Kerry Spaedy, Sharon Swanson, and Gena Thornburg represented LA at the Golden Age Games in Sanford November 6 and brought home 18 medals, including eight gold. Each placed in the top three in their respective events. Kerry won two medals at her first meet! Several LASC swimmers have qualified for and will compete in the Florida Senior Games at the Temple Terrace Family Recreation Complex on December 3 & 4. We wish them fast swims! Come swim with us on Mondays from 6 to 7 pm, Wednesdays from 1:45-2:45 pm, and/ or Saturdays 10 to 11 am.
By Vicki Creek The annual Advanced Bocce League Potluck Dinner will be held at the HFC on December 2 from 4 to 6 pm. If you are already a member of the Advanced Bocce League or are interested in joining you are invited to attend. Everyone please bring a covered dish along with your own beverages, plates and silverware. If you plan to a t t e n d p l e a s e R S V P t o V i c k i C r e e k at vlcreek@gmail.com. “Many A Friendship Has Been Made On The Bocce Courts.” BOOK CLUB By Judi Saint-Sommer And Still They Came, the Florida Saga Guest author: Robert James Connors The Book Club invites all residents to this presentation on December 6 at 2:30 pm in the Clubhouse Cinema. Have you ever wondered, how club in hearing stories of the last 200 years of development and conflicts. Special guest author, Robert James Connors, will share stories from his book, as well as a story that includes the very land Lake Ashton was developed on. His history is spun through the eyes of one family, with roots to the native Seminoles to development ties of the Keys bridge, railroads, and even Bok Tower. Mr. Connors, born in Chicago, Illinois, has published more than 1,000 human-interest stories, features and commentaries. He is a former magazine managing editor, journalist, newspaper editorial writer and former Florida County Commissioner. He and his wife Susan reside in Lake Wales. ART’S GOLF CARS, INC. The Fun Starts Here! Go to artsgolfcars.com click on the ‘BUILD YOUR OWN’ button to BUILD your own ONWARD! y ★★★ WE CARRY A FULL LINE OF PARTS & ACCESSORIES ★★★ Owner Art Hobson CALL ART ANYTIME FOR APPOINTMENT ● 863-439-5431 SALES AND SERVICE ● 863-439-5431 WE SERVICE ALL MAKES 2-Passenger Onward Lithium Club Car FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1987 29630 U.S. Hwy. 27 ● Dundee, FL 33838 ● artsgolfcars@aol.com AUTHORIZED DEALER
MICHIGAN POTLUCK By Kathy Keding A big hello to all friends from the Great Lake State! The Michigan Potluck is on the schedule for January 8, 2023, from 4 to 8 pm at the HFC. Lots of fun is in store for everyone! Bring your Michigan knowledge and a dish to pass. Sign up sheets will be posted at the HFC and the Clubhouse. Looking forward to meeting you! LA CANADIAN CLUB (LACC) By Ken Miyauchi Calling all Canadians! After a three-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the LA Canadian Club dinners will restart beginning January 12, 2023 at the HFC. Please join the group and renew old friendships by getting together for some good food, good conversation, and even a few laughs. The dinner will include roast beef, garlic roasted new potatoes, honey glazed baby carrots, garden ART’S GOLF CARS, INC. NEW! 2022 E-Z-GO Liberty ✦ Same length as standard 4-passenger ✦ 2-Seats facing forward FULLY EQUIPPED! Lithium Battery 8 Year Warranty salad, French rolls, dessert, and iced tea. The price is unchanged from three years ago at $17 per person. Where else can you get a three-course dinner for $14 plus tip and tax? Please signup and submit your payment at the HFC Activities Desk. Make your $17 checks payable to “Ed Wills”, club treasurer. The final date for signup is December 29. Looking forward to seeing everyone on January 12! Scene About Town Thank you to Lynn Davis, the Lake Ashton Garden Club Facilitator, for making the community a little more beautiful! ART’S GOLF CARS, INC. 2022 EV.2 ELITE $ 7,495 FINANCING AVAILABLE! AUTHORIZED DEALER Call Art Hobson anytime: 863-439-5431 29630 U.S. Highway 27 • Dundee, FL 33838 artsgolfcars@aol.com • Sales and Service Family Owned & Operated Since 1987 29630 U.S. Highway 27 • Dundee, FL 33838 artsgolfcars@aol.com • Sales and Service Family Owned & Operated Since 1987
LA ROCKERS By Connie Strassberg The LA Rocker community is growing as new participants come to see what is happening, like what they see, and stay to become old friends. Everyone has gotten into the holiday mood by painting rocks to hide and spread joy and kindness throughout the community. Sincere thanks goes to all of those who have posted their finds on TOLA and on LA Rockers. Nothing makes a LA Rocker feel better than seeing how much their effort has been appreciated. This fall, in addition to monthly challenges based on seasons and events, the group painted and donated "Breast Cancer Awareness" rocks for fundraisers in the community. Over the year, members new and old have stepped up to share their abilities with the group. From painting, to paint pouring, to straw blowing, to dotting, to foiling, to decoupage, to applying decals — the group is doing it all and having a ball while we doing it. If you haven't yet done so, definitely think about joining in the New Year. You don't need to know how to draw or paint — all you need is the desire to have a good time and make others happy. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa, Diwali, or something else, The Administration of LA Rockers wants to wish all members and all of the rest of Lake Ashton a happy and healthy holiday season filled with love from family and friends. May 2023 bring you joy and prosperity. LAVA AUXILIARY By Chris Graves There will be no December meeting. THANK YOU LAVA AUXILIARY AND LAKE ASHTON NEIGHBORS! The Craft Fair was a SUCCESS! Many stopped by as they were leaving (bags in hand) to let us know how much they enjoyed attending the Craft Fair. The vendors were extremely pleased as well. Many of the vendors have already reserved their spot for next year. Thanks to the bakers who provided their homemade baked goods. The “Bake Shop” immensely popular! Thanks also goes out to LAVA for their support with parking and helping the vendors bring in their goods to set up their booth. SAVE THE DATE! MR. LAKE ASHTON RETURNS ON APRIL 15, 2023. For those of you new to Lake Ashton, Mr. Lake Ashton is a fun filled evening fundraiser for our veterans! Contestants will compete for the title “Mr. Lake Ashton” and a few good men are needed to compete! The inaugural event in 2020 was sold out! May you be blessed with making happy memories this holiday season. Keep in prayer military members who will not be with family this season. CAMERA CLUB By Larry Hillock The Camera Club held a photo shoot at Bok Tower last month. The fog created some i n t e res t i ng photo oppor tuni t ies and everyone had a good time. The December meeting is scheduled for Monday, December 12 at 10:30am in the Cinema. Plans are being made for other outings and guest speakers. If you're interested in photography and would like to share your enthusiasm and knowledge with others, please join us at one of our meetings. As always, everyone is encouraged to bring some pictures along on a USB drive to share with the group. GENEALOGY CLUB MEETING By Jane Imparl Come join your fellow Lake Ashtonians for a fun and lively discussion of where to look for good genealogy records and resources. We will continue our discussion of where to find free websites that will make our research more fun and productive as well. Bring your stories, questions and advice to add to our meeting. We meet on Wednesday, December 14 at 2 PM in the HFC Craft Room. Hope to see you there. For more info, call Jane at 815-545-6655.
(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 Goodman • Bryant • Franklin • Grandaire • Trane • Carrier • Lennox- etc We service all makes and models 37
MIND&BODY CLASSICAL MUSIC APPRECIATION / MUS IC HISTORY SERIES The classical music history program continues Mondays at 3 pm in the Clubhouse Cinema. In December we will conclude the Baroque era with the music of George Frideric Handel and Johann Sebastian Bach. The final class of the year will be December 19th (no class 12/26). We will resume on January 2nd with the Classical era composers Joseph Haydn and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Lake Ashton resident Ken Hoffman explains the music and the historical events that influenced the composers of the eras. Learn about many renown musicians of the past 60 years while viewing films of them playing the music. Class discussion is encouraged. Newcomers can sign up in class. See the course website BaroqueMasters.blogspot.com for more information. MEN’S HEALTH SEMINAR Join Dr. Paul Arnold, Urologist with AdventHealth, for a men’s health seminar at the HFC on December 13 at 1 pm. Men’s health is an intimate and personal part of your life. Urological disorders can affect your day-today happiness and your long-term health. Talk through all aspects of men’s health with Dr. Arnold at this upcoming seminar. Refreshments provided. CAREGIVERS SUPPORT An all-encompassing Caregiver Support Group facilitated by the Alzheimer's Association will be held on December 20 at 11 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom. This group is for Caregivers and Care partners of people living with Alzheimer's, Dementia, Parkinson’s, ALS, Cancer, and Diabetes. People who are living with the disease are welcome to attend with their care partner. This support group is conducted by trained facilitators and is a safe place for everyone to develop a support system. Sign up at the Clubhouse Information Wall. LA MEN’S BIBLE STUDY Join the interesting and thought provoking LA Men’s Bible Study Group that meets every Tuesday, with Fellowship from 10 to 10:30 am, and Discussion from 10:30 to noon. The group is non-denominational, with a goal of helping people to grow in understanding the Bible. Meet face-to-face at the HFC Craft Room or via a Zoom connection if you prefer. The group is starting Romans, generally reading one chapter and discussing questions pertaining to that chapter. There is an open, positive, educational, and voluntary dialogue. You don’t need to be a theologian to join. You’ll find that as you examine your faith, you’ll learn more about God and yourself. Contact Bob Ring, 734-674-7196, bobring42297@gmail.com or Jim Brendemuehl, 815-343-5727, jcbrendem@gmail.com. EMPOWERED SUCCESS TO LIVING A HEALTHY LIFE Have you ever wondered about holistic healing and all that it entails? Well then, this presentation is for you! Join Nicole Almeida, certified holistic practitioner December 28 at 6 pm for a thought-provoking discussion about holistic healthcare making the point that it’s life span vs. health span. They will be taking and answering questions throughout the discussion as well. Sign up at the Clubhouse Information Wall. Save the Date for January’s Think & Drink: What is a Municipal Airport? Find out the answer to this question from the Lake Wales Municipal Airport Manager Amanda Kirby on January 24 at 6 pm. EDUCATIONAL CBD LUNCHEON Come lunch and learn about CBD and how you can use it in your everyday life at a luncheon on January 10 at 11 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom. Gain insight into the helpfulness and everyday use of CDB and ask any questions. Please sign up on the Clubhouse Information Wall by January 2.
LA SOCIAL TENNIS By Debbie Grabb Do you play tennis? Do you like to play mixed doubles? Lake Ashton has four tennis courts available for you. Social Tennis is played from 8 to 10:30 am on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Just show up at the Health and Fitness Center (West courts) with your tennis racquet. You get to play with different partners. Tennis balls are provided for Social Tennis. After snowbirds return, play is added on the courts at the Clubhouse (East courts). No dues, just bring a can of tennis balls once a month. There is a get-together/meeting once a year. If you have questions, contact Debbie Grabb at 863-324-0600. There is a ball machine stored at the East courts; to use, please contact Phil Hines at 863-294-8884. W.A.V. E . Instructor: Sue Fitzgerald certified AFAA, ACE and ASFA (904.566.2846) Water Aerobics with Variety for Everyone is held every Saturday at 3 pm in the HFC Indoor Pool. YOGA SHARE Facilitator: Sally Winfrey (863.875.8134 or 316.516.2815) Wednesdays at 8:45 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom. Sign up at the Clubhouse Information Wall. 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 IMPROVER LINE DANCING Instructor: Ann Ludwick Thursdays, 1 p.m. at the HFC Community Center HAPPY HOUR DANCE CLASS Instructor: Cheryl Winchester (305-725-4946) Thursdays from 3 to 4 pm with a glass of ? afterwards (BYOB). Meet at the HFC basketball court for lots of fun and energy. No need for previous dance experience or to be in attendance weekly. LA STEPPERS The popular fitness class from the 90’s is also popular here in Lake Ashton, and will continue this fall on Thursday December 1 from 5 to 6 pm in the HFC Community Center. Prior to class there will be a refresher of basic steps. Participants must bring their own step. There is no charge for this class. Certified Instructor is LA Resident Sue Fitzgerald. Questions? Call Sue at 904-566-2846. CALLING ALL TAPPERS Facilitator: Julie Bombard Tap Jammers is a fun group of tappers who gather weekly to practice steps and combinations. If you tap or have tapped in the past and have knowledge of tap dance, come join the fun! Classes are free. Tap Jammers meet on Friday mornings at 10 am on the Clubhouse stage. Please note: These classes are not intended for the beginning tapper. For more information, contact Facilitator Julie Bombard at jbombard73@gmail.com. MAH JONGG By Myrna Soberman Looking for Mah Jongg p l a y e r s with one to two years or more experience to join this group every Wednesday afternoon at the HFC from 2 to 4 pm. For more information, please contact myrnaandsteve@gmail.com.
FUSED GLASS HOLIDAY ORNAMENT CLASSES There will be two opportunities to make two ornaments from a selection of designs this month: • Friday, December 9 from 10 am to 1 pm in the Clubhouse Craft Room • Thursday, December 15 from 9 am to Noon in the HFC Craft Room Cost: $35, includes all project supplies, use of equipment, kiln firing, & art glass. Sign up at the location the class will be held. 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. BOB ROSS OIL PAINTING Instructor: Kay Lenherr December 10 at 1 pm Clubhouse Craft Room Candle on Black $35, payable at class. Sign up at the Clubhouse Information Wall by noon on December 9 WATERCOLOR WORKSHOPS Artist Freddie Combs returns to Lake Ashton for the 2023 season. She will present three day-long watercolor workshops in the new year. Subject matter will be still life, florals and beach related items. Sessions are January 20, February 10, and March 10. Class is from 9-3 in the HFC with a break for a sack lunch. Those attending should arrive at least 15 minutes prior to class start time to allow time for prep work before class begins. Students will create two watercolor paintings per session. Price per session is $50. All new students should contact the artist at 864-307-1244. A sign-up sheet will be at the HFC Activities Desk.
GIFT WRAPPING & HOLIDAY BOWS CLASS If you’ve ever looked upon perfectly or artistically wrapped gifts with envy, now you can learn how to do it yourself! For only $5, you too can learn handson how to add some flair to your gift wrapping on December 7 at 10 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom. You can even learn how to make those gorgeous holiday bows that adorn gifts, wreaths, and more, Sign up at the Clubhouse Activities Office. WILLS, TRUSTS, & LIFETIME PLANNING 2023 BOOT CAMP Do the unknowns of the future keep you up at night? This monthly boot camp will teach you how to create a Lifetime Comprehensive Plan. Join Jason Penrod, Board Certified Elder Law Expert and Financial Advisor, on a step-by-step year-long journey towards “peace of mind.” The culmination of these 12 eyeopening interactive sessions will be the completion of your own “Comprehensive Lifetime Plan” through interesting examples and practical teachings. Email Agnus (avera@familyelderlaw.com) to enroll. January: “Where do I start? Estate vs. Lifetime Planning?” February: “Who will make my medical decisions?” March: “Who will protect my assets and pay my bills?” April: “Who will receive my assets when I die? Will my family have to probate?” May: “What is the best way to avoid probate?” June: “Should I have a Trust? What does “Funding Your Trust” mean?” July: “How do I know medical bills will be covered? Medicare?” August: “Will can I protect what I have? Do I have enough to last my lifetime?” September: “How will I pay for nursing home care?” October: “Am I forgetting something?” November: “What if life happens? When should I review my plan?” December (Graduation!): “How do I “peace of mind” & bless others?” share my RECURRING EVENTS & CLASSES Many activities have returned for the season after a summer hiatus. Don’t forget to check out the Activities Calendars from the Clubhouse and the HFC that are included in this issue. They both list all the important activities and happenings at both locations, as well as classes and meetings that occur on a weekly basis. There's truly something for everyone at LA!
PARTY IN THE CITY! CELEBRATE THE NEW YEAR NEW YORK STYLE IN THE CLUBHOUSE BALLROOM! 7 PM TO DEC 31ST • Italian sausage & peppers on Italian bread • Roast beef bruschetta • Fresh shrimp ceviche • Pasta station with chicken or vegetables • Pizza logs • Fruit and cheese display • Cheesecake bar • Champagne toast • BYOB! MIDNIGHT Eklectik Haze will be rockin’ all night! Tickets: $50 at the Clubhouse Activities Office Photo booths, (360 and regular), noisemakers, and lots of confetti provided! Dress for fun! Lake Ashton’s Rockin’ New Year’s Eve!
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