L.A. TIMES Lake Ashton Community Newsletter December 2024 “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” — C.S. Lewis Ring in the New Year in the Ballroom with friends & neighbors! see p. 27 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
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NEWSLETTER STAFF Christine Wells Editor cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com 863.324.5457 Valerie LeBlanc Advertising Sales, Layout & Design valerie@lakeashtoncdd.com SUBMISSION GUIDELINES January Issue Deadline: December 13 • Articles can be submitted on behalf of Lake Ashton clubs/ groups/organizations to promote lifestyle enhancing, opportunities, and must be approved by the group leader prior to publication • Email articles to: valerie@lakeashtoncdd.com • 150 word limit. Articles will be edited for length, 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 2024 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 Office Manager: Sheila Moreland smoreland@lakeashtoncdd.com Clubhouse Activities Assistant: Caroline Lane, 863-324-6032 clane@lakeashtoncdd.com Clubhouse Operations Manager: Matt Fisher, 863-956-6207 mfisher@lakeashtoncdd.com LW Homeowners Association (HOA) Golf Club - Ron Lavoie, General Manager Ian Peterson, Head Golf Professional Eagle’s Nest - Sandra Goodwin, Manager RV & Storage Center Office Hours Charm City Nik Minadakis, Owner EmpowerMe Wellness 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: Karen Van Kirk kvankirk@lakeashton2cdd.com HFC Activities Office Manager: Krystle Funk 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 lakeashtonhoa.com 863-326-1032 863-326-1032 rlavoie@lakeashtongc.com ipeterson@lakeashtongc.com 863-326-1085 sgoodwin@lakeashtongc.com 863.326.1304 Tues & Thurs jsullivan@lakeashtonstorage.com 8 am to 1 pm 863-662-3300 charmcityfl@gmail.com 863-358-0809 kshipley@empowerme.com In case of emergency, dial 911! Police Non-Emergency Numbers: Lake Wales: 863-678-4223 | Winter Haven: 863-291-5858 3 Polk County Sheriff: 863-298-6200
MONDAY COFFEE Meet new neighbors and to hear about local community happenings, community events and receive information on current projects within Lake Ashton. Mondays at 9 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom — coffee & donuts available for $3. DECEMBER 2 • Birthdays and Anniversaries • LA Woodworkers Project of the Month • Featured Speaker: Polk Senior Games • Featured Vendors: Christine Graves Insurance, ComForCare DECEMBER 9 • Bite Me Monday — Donations of pet food and/or supplies for the Humane Society of Polk County • Featured Speaker: Simply Healthy with Kim Skinner • Featured Vendors: Matt Simpson - Edward Jones, Tessier Law Firm DECEMBER 16 - NO MONDAY COFFEE - LACDD BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETING • Peanut Butter Monday - Non-perishable food donations will go to the Mission of Winter Haven DECEMBER 23 • Featured Speaker: AdventHealth • Featured Vendor: Dr. Ryan Briggs at Smith Chiropractic Wear the most festive holiday sweater you can make or find for a chance to win a Charm City Gift Card! DECEMBER 30 - NO MONDAY COFFEE - HAPPY NEW YEAR! IN THIS ISSUE NEWS 5 LA LOOKS 18 SAFETY 22 MOVIES 24 EVENTS 26 CLUBS 30 MIND & BODY 38 GOLF 41 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETINGS LAKE ASHTON (LW) CDD December 16, 9 am Clubhouse Ballroom LAKE ASHTON II (WH) CDD December 20, 9 am Health & Fitness Center 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
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HOURS OF OPERATION CLUBHOUSE: 6 am – 10 pm daily CLUBHOUSE & ACTIVITIES OFFICES: 9 am – 5 pm Monday through Friday HEALTH & FITNESS CENTER: 5:30 am – 10 pm daily HFC OFFICES & ACTIVITIES DESK: 8 am – 4 pm Monday through Friday PRODUCE Come visit the produce vendor every Wednesday from 10 am – 2 pm in the Clubhouse West parking lot! BAXTER’ S QUAL ITY MEATS & FRESH PRODUCE Get fresh poultry, fish, beef in the Clubhouse West parking lot every Wednesday from 10 am to 2 pm. BOOKMOBILE IS BACK! Second & fourth Wednesdays, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm (closed for lunch from 12:30 to 1:15) in the Clubhouse West Parking Lot. Polk County library card holders can check out and return books, movies, and more! FREE PASTRIES & COFFEE AT THE CLUBHOUSE With Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanza occurring during the same week, there is no better time to celebrate the holidays at Lake Ashton! All residents and their guests are invited to stop by the Clubhouse Ballroom on December 23 for a free breakfast pastry and coffee with friends and neighbors during Monday Coffee. Please sign up online or at the Clubhouse Activities Office. Hanukkah (also called Chanukah) is celebrated December 25 - January 2. Visit history.com/topics/ holidays/hanukkah to learn more about this holiday Christmas is celebrated on December 25. Visit history.com/topics/christmas/history-ofchristmas to learn more about this holiday. Kwanzaa is celebrated December 26 - January 1. Visit history.com/topics/holidays/kwanzaa-history to learn more about this holiday Residents are encouraged to learn more about the holidays listed above and join together to celebrate with friends and neighbors this holiday season! HOLIDAY CLOS INGS & TRASH PICKUP CHANGES The Clubhouse and HFC Offices will be closed on Tuesday, December 24 and Wednesday, December 25 in observance of Christmas. The Clubhouse Offices will be closed Tuesday, December 31 and Wednesday, January 1 in observance of the New Year. The HFC Offices will be closed Wednesday, January 1. Lake Wales Residents will have their trash picked up on Saturday, December 28 and Saturday, January 4 due to the Christmas and New Year's holidays. There is no change to the Winter Haven schedule.
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LACDD NEWS By Christine Wells, LA (LW) CDD Community Director LACDD Supervisors would like to wish residents a happy holiday season and best wishes for the New Year! It is 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. There are several activities scheduled such as the Annual Holiday parade, Outdoor Menorah Lighting, and a New Year's Eve Party featuring 99 in the Shade in the Ballroom. Some of the most rewarding community traditions involve volunteering and giving to those in need. December 3 is Giving Tuesday, a global day dedicated to giving back. There are several groups within Lake Ashton that residents should consider helping. Think about dropping off a gift to the Hands 4 Hope sleigh in the Ballroom that benefits the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, donating gently used items to the MOW Thrift Store set up by the Friends of MOW group, donating non perishable food to the Lake Wales Care Center and The Mission of Winter Haven, 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. LACDD BOARD OF SUP ERVISO RS CONTA CT INF O Brenda Van Sickle, Chair 863-324-6191 brenda.vansickle@lakeashtoncdd.com Michael Costello, Vice Chair 863-875-9228 or 732-718-7431 mcostello@lakeashtoncdd.com Debby Landgrebe, Assistant Secretary 863-268-8193 dlandgrebe@lakeashtoncdd.com Steve Realmuto, Assistant Secretary 863-949-0304, steve.lacdd@gmail.com Office Hours After Monday Coffee in the Clubhouse Ballroom Greg Ulrich, Assistant Secretary 863-969-7595 gulrich@lakeashtoncdd.com The Board of Supervisors met on November 18 and welcomed the newest member of the Board, Greg Ulrich. Supervisors heard from the District Engineer on the status of current projects, approved several resolutions, and approved a quote to install 2 additional AED units at the Clubhouse. A full wrap up report was sent to the community via email blast on November 21. Please visit lakeashtoncdd.com and lakeashton2cdd.com to find the latest meeting minutes, agendas, and meeting schedule. CONGRATULATIONS! Supervisor Greg Ulrich was sworn in and joined the Board of Supervisors on November 18. Supervisor Steve Realmuto was re-elected to serve an additional 4-year term on the LACDD Board of Supervisors. Congratulations to the newly elected and re-elected Supervisors!
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LAIICDD NEWS By Karen Van Kirk, LAIICDD Community Director LA II CDD BOARD OF SUP ERVISO RS 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 Office Hours: Mondays 1 to 3 pm 863.325.8098, bzelazny@lakeashton2cdd.com Mary C. Clark, Assistant Secretary Public Works & Infrastructure, Including Roadways Office Hours: Wednesdays from 6 to 7 pm 252-503-7087, maryclark725@gmail.com Angela Littlewood, Assistant Secretary Special Projects, Landscaping Area incl. Pet Play Parks Office Hours: Mondays from 9 to 10 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 Visions of sugar plums, brightly colored packages, traditional nativity scenes, candle bedecked menorahs, gift giving, family and holiday gatherings and parties, along with bright-eyed children waiting in line to see Santa; these are things we often think about in December. What about the winter solstice and dainty snowflakes landing on the tip of your nose? Lake Ashton residents may have at one time or another, experienced their December’s with a blanket of snow, but have happily traded the cold winds for palm trees swaying in a tropical breeze. While Advent begins on December 1st, the beginning of Hanukkah this year is on Christmas Day and the start of Kwanzaa follows on the 26th; these are surely reasons for remembrance and celebration. There also is occasion to pause and reflect on past events, such as Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, December 7. Not all news is bad though as there was a great deal of excitement upon hearing of the successful first flight (on December 17) by the Wright Brothers, spurring a new mode of transportation, then in 1958 the first commercial jet flight took place. Ten years later in 1968, also in December, Apollo 8 orbits the moon. All-in-all, December has proven to be a month filled with festivities and historical events. Here at Lake Ashton residents continue with their usual activities, by being active, both physically and mentally. There is something going on for everyone, from arts to crafts, sewing projects and a whole lot more. Not too crafty? There is always a card game or two taking place. How about those social activities, like Friday night dances, Sunday square dancing or for a little nostalgia, try ballroom dance lessons on Mondays. We offer a multitude of indoor exercise classes, including those that take place in the indoor pool. There are also sporting games, both indoor and out-of-doors, like ping pong, racquet ball, golf and pickleball. These are year-round happenings, although, in the month of December everything seems more festive as friends and neighbors exchange greeting cards and gifts, or simply wish one another happy holidays. RFID implementation continues throughout December. Be on the look-out for emails with make-up dates if you have not registered your vehicles. You may also pick up the vehicle registration forms in the wall kiosk near the activities desk. The HFC Staff and LAIICDD would like to thank residents of Lake Ashton for their continued support of our activities. We are resolute in our mission to be of service to the Lake Ashton community. We wish you happy holidays and a wonderful, healthy, and safe new year
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SECURITY TRANSITION UPDATE Residents must turn in an application to the Clubhouse Office by December 13 to avoid being charged for their RFID tag(s) (LAKE WALES RESIDENTS ONLY) and Amenity Access Card(s) (LAKE WALES AND WINTER HAVEN RESIDENTS). Each household will receive up to two (2) RFID Tags and up to two (2) Amenity Access Cards free of charge (1 per resident). Additional RFID tags and Amenity Access Cards are $10 each. If you are away from Lake Ashton, you can email the applications to smoreland@lakeashtoncdd.com. A charge of $10 per credential will be implemented after December 13 for anyone that did not submit an application by the deadline. When entering the gates, please stop at the stop sign and proceed slowly until the gate opens. The reader is on the left side of the gate and will illuminate (green light) when the gate is opening (see pictured at right). At the end of January 2025 the gate clicker system will deactivate and Amenity Access Controllers will be activated. Please do not wait until the last minute to get your credentials. In the meantime, get used to bringing your Amenity Access Card to the Clubhouse once you have received it. There are a couple of doors already active — try your card at the west entrances to the Clubhouse. These are the doors leading to the back of the Ballroom. Please let staff know if you have any difficulties. CLUBHOUSE ACCESS CARD/RFID TAG DISTRI BUT ION Starting December 17 residents can come to the Clubhouse Office during the following days and times to receive their Amenity Access Card(s) and/or RFID Tag(s). Please note: Winter Haven Residents will get their Amenity Access Card(s) at the Clubhouse and their RFID Tag(s) at the Health and Fitness Center. Lake Wales Residents will get their RFID Tag(s) and Amenity Access Cards at the Clubhouse. Tuesdays: 10 am - 1 pm Wednesdays: 1 - 4 pm Thursdays: 1 - 4 pm Lake Wales RV owners are asked to reach out to Sheila at smoreland@lakeashtoncdd.com to book an appointment to receive their RFID tag(s). HFC ACCESS CARD/RFID TAG DI STRI BUT ION Winter Haven Residents can come to the Health and Fitness Center during the following days and times to receive their RFID Tag(s). Tuesdays: 1 - 3 pm Thursdays: 1 - 3 pm Winter Haven RV owners are asked to reach out to Krystle at kfunk@lakeashton2cdd.com to book an appointment to receive their RFID tag(s).
GIVING TUESDAY - DECEMBER 3 There is so much to be thankful for and so many blessings to count! In the spirit of Giving Tuesday, consider giving to the many organizations supported by Lake Ashton Clubs, as identified in this edition of the LA Times. Giving doesn't always involve money or tangible items. The gift of time is most often the most valuable. HOLIDAY FOOD DRI VE For the month of December non-perishable food donations will be accepted all month long to be donated to Lake Wales Care Center and the Mission of Winter Haven. Please drop off donations to the Ballroom Kitchen in the Clubhouse. LA HANDS 4 HOPE HOLIDAY TOY DRI VE By Debby Landgrebe We have much to be grateful for, especially over these last few weeks. Others have not been as fortunate. LA Hands 4 Hope offers assistance to children and families in Polk County who otherwise may be overwhelmed, overlooked and vulnerable to poverty. For the past four years, LA Hands 4 Hope has sponsored toy drives to help needy families during the holiday season. Last year we donated over 500 toys to the Sheriff’s Department to be distributed to children in Polk County, including children whose parents are incarcerated or in rehab. As we continue the Toy Drive for children ages infant – 18 years old, we want to also make you aware that LA Hands 4 Hope is also working with a local school that chooses multiple families to come for a Holiday Dinner With Santa & His Helpers. Santa delivers gifts to the children and the time is filled with joy, happiness and excitement. Many of the participants have never had a meal or felt as special as they do during this celebration. Many LA Residents have asked how they can help LA Hands 4 Hope during this time. If you feel in your heart that you would like to help us make this night more magical for these families, please contact Barbara Aull at 973-670-2708 or Toots Harrison at 218-404-6696 to discuss food and/or monetary donations. Help make this holiday gathering for families, extra special. Thank you for your love and support. BE A SANTA TO A SENIOR By Kathryn Jusaites The “Be a Santa to a Senior” Christmas tree, sponsored by Home Instead of Winter Haven, is in the lobby of the HFC. Please take a tag to purchase a gift to be given to a local senior in Winter Haven. Tape the tag and place the purchased unwrapped item (preferably in a gift bag) back under the tree by December 6.
TEAM SAM THANKS YOU Thank you to everyone who joined Team Sam for the annual Alzheimer's Walk on November 4. Over $6,500 was raised for the Alzheimer's Association. LAKE ASHTON FRIENDS OF MEALS ON WHEELS By Marcia Santino Thank You, Lake Ashton residents! We r a i sed ove r $15,000! Our 2024 f u n d r a i s i n g c a m p a i g n benefitting Meals On Wheels Polk wrapped up with a World Kindness Day Dance and Raffle Drawing on November 13 following a month-long gift card/gift basket raffle ticket selling season. About 150 people were on hand for the dance where DJ John from TS&L kept everyone on the dance floor. Charm City created a delicious “Kind” specialty drink giving $1 from each sale to MOW. We sold a lmos t 3500 raffle tickets to over 325 people for chances to win our coveted 40 ffl ift S Eldridge, Executive Director of MOWPolk, was on hand to personally draw the winning tickets and certify the drawing. In addition to the dance and raffle proceeds, we had several large cash donations. A sincere thank you to everyone that supports this essential resource in Polk County. Your generosity is greatly and gratefully appreciated! Reminder: Next “Third Thursday Second Chance” donation date is: December 19. CLUBHOUSE ART WALL Thank you to all of the res ident s who have showcased their artwork in the main hallway in the Clubhouse. Pictured here are photographs displayed in November by Shelley Brodka, our volunteer curator. If you are interested in displaying your artwork, contact Shelley at shelleyb4336@gmail.com or Christine at cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com. Stop by the Clubhouse on December 1 to view Melissa Marsden's art work. Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm. You’ve heard the old saying “A rotten apple spoils the barrel” This can be applied to friendships, or relationships and with good reason. I am a little league baseball coach for three different teams. The way I carry myself around young players is a big deal. At times the parents in the stands get a little crazy! They yell at their kids with anger in their eyes. Some of the parents even say hurtful things when the player makes a mistake. Talk about a rotten apple! I am blessed to speak life into these kids! A fool’s mouth lashes out with pride, but the lips of the wise protect them. Be the example in your circle of friends, spend time with people you want to be like because you and your friends will surely grow to resemble each other.Alex Fuertes, Maintenance Supervisor
THIS IS WHERE NEW MEMORIES ARE MADE CRUISE & LAND VACATIONS Sally & Ear l Schle y 863-308-295 0 | earl.schley@cruiseplanners.co m www.SandEtravelplanners.co m sally.schley@cruiseplanners.co m FLST # 3906 8 • CST # 2034468-5 0 • HST # TAR-705 8 • WAST # 603-399-50 4 The Patron inviting the Guest must be present upon registration, unless other arrangements have been made with the Amenity Manager’s office. A Guest is limited to 12 Guest Registrations per year. Guest passes may be issued for a maximum of fifteen (15) consecutive days as correlated with the guest’s length of stay and may only be extended once for a maximum of thirty (30) total consecutive days. A guest cannot be registered for more than sixty (60) total days in a 365-day period. A Guest’s ability to be registered may be reviewed by an Amenity Manager if exceeding the standards listed above. JOINT AMENI TY POL ICY HIGHLIGHT The full Joint Amenity Facilities Policies can be found on lakeashtoncdd.com and lakeashton2cdd.com. Residents with questions can contact Christine Wells, LA(LW)CDD Community Director or Karen Van Kirk, LAII(WH)CDD Community Director. GUESTS: All Guests, regardless of age, must register with the office of the Amenity Manager and sign a waiver of liability prior to using the Amenity Facilities. All Guests under eighteen (18) years of age must be accompanied at all times while using the Amenity Facilities by a parent, guardian, or adult Patron over twenty-one (21) years of age. Patrons are responsible for ensuring that their Guests adhere to the Policies set forth herein and any and all actions taken by said Guest. Violation by a Guest of any of these Policies as set forth by the Districts could result in loss of that Patron’s privileges and membership as set forth in Section VI – Suspension and Termination of Privileges. Home Instead® Care Professionals can provide the care needed to ensure your loved one returns home safely . Call (863) 294-9141 or visit HomeInstead.com/333 FL Lic# 299994096 PERSONAL CARE | TRANSPORTATION | MEALS & NUTRITION | MEMORY CARE Each Home Instead® office is an independently owned and operated franchise of Home Instead, Inc., an Honor Company. © 2022 Home Instead, Inc.
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L.A. LOOKS LA (LW) HOA CORNER We need your help more than ever at the HOA! Currently, our Board has shrunk to just three members, and we’re aiming for five. Plus, we could really use some extra hands on the ARC and Compliance Committees. With a few more volunteers, these roles can become enjoyable and require only a little of your time. Remember, the HOA is a must in Florida, and a volunteer Board is essential. If we can't find volunteers, the State of Florida could step in and appoint outside individuals or a company to manage our affairs. These non-residents won't have a personal stake in our community, which could lead to decisions that may not align with our interests and likely increase our HOA member assessments. Keeping control over our community is crucial! As we approach that time of year, keep an eye out for your HOA assessment billing. Exciting news— starting in 2025, the assessment will be set at $55. Expect to see your billing in the mail after 12/15/2024, with payments due by January 31, 2025. Your billing statement will include details on electronic payment options and where to send paper checks if that’s your preference. With the festive season just around the corner, don’t forget to review our holiday lighting guidelines! You can find all the details in our ARC Guidelines on our website at lakeashtonhoa.com. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out at directors@lakeashtonhoa.org. Contact info for board members is also listed on page 20. Wishing you and your loved ones the happiest of holidays!
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LA (LW) HOA BOARD • Marti Schmidt, President/Treasurer president@lakeashtonhoa.org Central • Tim Doyle, Secretary secretary@lakeashtonhoa.org • Deanne Mayne, Secretary 2 & Compliance Director, sec2@lakeashtonhoa.org LA II (WH) HOA BOARD • President Bill Testa, PresidentLA2HOA@gmail.com • VP- ARC Mike Brennan, VPArcLA2HOA@gmail.com • Secretary Joel Ellwanger, SecretaryLA2HOA@gmail.com • Treasurer Connie Strassberg, TreasurerLA2HOA@gmail.com • Asst Treasurer Ray Rudy, VPTreasurerLA2HOA@gmail.com Native Plants of Florida By Lynn Davis Many gardeners struggle to find the right plant near their house which may receive little or no direct sunlight. A maidenhair fern is a great choice for such an area. Don’t let the delicate leaves fool you. This fern is low maintenance and hearty. Let it cascade onto a rock or peek through the nook and cranny spaces in ones yard. Besides liking indirect light, the fern loves humidity. Moisture and a well-drained area are important for it’s growth too. It makes a great companion under the canopy of a tree. Maidenhair ferns can be trimmed and planted anytime even though it prefers Spring. It’s always a good idea before planting to make sure to give any plant the right place and space for the best rewards. WWW.BROCKSWINDOWCLEANING.COM
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SAFETY • NEVER turn your back on the cart with a purse inside while reaching for items. We’ve all seen it — a grocery cart with a purse, no owner in sight! • NEVER leave a purse hanging on back of a chair. • ALWAYS keep your purse on your arm or crossed over to the front and keep it CLOSED! • ALWAYS keep your purse next to you when at a restaurant or any public area where you are sitting. • ALWAYS keep your wallet in a FRONT pocket if possible. SAFEGUARD YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION ON SHARED COMPUTERS Please remember to log out of all online accounts when you are finished using the computer in the Media Center. This includes email providers, shopping sites, banking sites, and social media accounts. In the interest of your safety and security, passwords should never be saved on a shared computer. Please see Staff if you have any questions. NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH (NW) CORNER By Fay Wood, NW Chief Save the Date for the 2025 Police Chiefs Meet & Greet on February 3, 2025! Worth The Reminder - Courtesy of Law Enforcement Unattended Purses & Wallets in Shopping Carts are an open invitation to thieves. Whether inside a shopping cart or hanging on the back of a chair, this practice is just advertising to the bad guys. • NEVER leave a purse in a cart when running to another aisle. You can never be too careful! Lake Ashton’s total all inclusive NW Community has a strong watchful eye atmosphere thanks to our dedicated Law Enforcement Teams and complimented by our very own Citizens Assisted Patrol (CAP); CERT, Gate Attendants, Loyal Vendors, Management and CDD/HOA Leadership and most important our residents who stay involved. Thank you all for your teamwork and support. May the New Year bring us all good health, safety, security and unity across our great community; county, and the world! 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. For residents who have concerns with an alligator that poses a threat to humans, pets or property, call the FWC's Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (392-4286). Remember, it is illegal to feed or harass alligators. All vehicles, including golf carts, must obey all stop signs and the 20 mph speed limit throughout Lake Ashton. A person operating a golf cart on public roads or streets who is under 18 years must possess a valid learner’s permit or driver’s license.
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MOVI ES CLOSED CAPTIONING: 11 AM AND ALL TUESDAY SHOWINGS CINEMA CAPACITY: 55 DECEMBER 3 — 5 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM (NO 11 AM SHOWING DECEMBER 4) MARIA 2024 | R | 2H 3MIN (A sexual reference | Some language) 1977: Maria Callas (Angelina Jolie), once the world's greatest opera diva, lives in seclusion in Paris with her staff and her two poodles. Her health is getting worse and worse. Then she receives a request to go on tour again. Will La Callas sing again? And if so, for whom? DECEMBER 10 — 12 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM MARY 2024 | PG-13 | 1H 50MIN Mary conceives a child miraculously, angering King Herod (Anthony Hopkins) who seeks to kill the newborn fearing he'll threaten his power. Mary is forced into hiding with her infant son. DECEMBER 17 — 19 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM NUTRACKERS 2024 | PG-13 | 1H 44MIN A strait-laced man (Ben Stiller) finds his life suddenly upended when he becomes the caregiver for his rambunctious, orphaned nephews. This endearing comedy-drama draws inspiration from actual events and deftly crafts a gripping story that unites everyone. Special Holiday Showings TUESDAY, DECEMBER 24 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM THAT CHRISTMAS 2024 | PG | 1H 31MIN Based on the charming trilogy of children's books by multi awardwinning writer/director Richard Curtis (Notting Hill, Love Actually, Yesterday), That Christmas follows a series of entwined tales about family and friends, love and loneliness, and Santa Claus making a big mistake, not to mention an enormous number of turkeys! Animated. NO MOVIES DECEMBER 25 OR 31 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 26 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM THE BLACK CANDLE 2008 | NR | 1H 11MIN The first feature film on Kwanzaa, The Black Candle traces the holiday’s growth out of the Black Power Movement in the 1960s to its present-day reality as a global, panAfrican holiday embraced by over millions of celebrants. Narrated by Maya Angelou. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM FULL COURT MIRACLE 2003 | G | 1H 11MIN Lamont Carr, an injured basketball star forced out of the game meets Alex, a young Jewish boy who plays for his academy's team. Alex loves basketball, but the team has never won a game. He manages to persuade Lamont to coach them, despite the reservations of the academy's teachers and administrators, and suddenly the team's fortunes start to look up during the Hanukkah season. 24
FEATURE FILM FRIDAYS — CLASSIC AND SPECIAL INTEREST FILMS 11 AM SHOWTIME IS CLOSED CAPTIONED MAY DECEMBER 6 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM DISNEY 100 — A CENTURY OF DREAMS 2023 | NR | 1H 58MIN Commemorating the 100th anniversary of the entertainment company with interviews, rare footage and photos, and never-before-heard stories from those who built the Disney legend; a look inside Disney's newest attraction. DECEMBER 13 11 AM (NO 3 OR 7 PM SHOWINGS) HOME ALONE 1990 | PG | 1H 42MIN When 8-year-old Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) acts out the night before a family trip to Paris, his mother (Catherine O'Hara) makes him sleep in the attic. After the McCallisters mistakenly leave for the airport without Kevin, he awakens to an empty house and assumes his wish to have no family has come true. But his excitement sours when he realizes that two con men (Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern) plan to rob the McCallister residence, and that he alone must protect the family home. DECEMBER 20 11 AM & 3 PM (NO 7 PM SHOWINGS) DEAR SANTA 2024 | PG-13 | 1H 43MIN (Some Language | Suggest ive Material) When a young boy mails his Christmas wish list to Santa with one crucial spelling error, a devilish Jack Black arrives to wreak havoc on the holidays. Christmas is about to go up in flames.
EVENTS COMMUNITY SOCIAL POTLUCKS SCAN WITH YOUR SMARTPHONE TO SIGN UP FOR CLASSES & EVENTS AT THE CLUBHOUSE! 2025 ENTERTAINMENT SERIES TICKETS New season tickets are on sale online and at the Clubhouse Activities Office through December 6. Season tickets are sold only to Lake Ashton residents. There is a limit of one ticket per resident. 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 are sold on a first-come, first-served basis. Individual tickets, if available, will go on sale December 17. Please stay tuned to email blasts for more information on individual ticket sales. These tickets will be available online and at the Clubhouse Activities Office. ASHTONES QUARTET By Danny Krueger Mark your calendar for a night of good food, fun and good music Wednesday, December 4 from 5 to 8 pm at Charm City. Lake Ashton’s own Ashtones Quartet: Marlon Nettleton, Don Woodbury, Jerry Weimer, and Danny Krueger will be singing mostly Christmas music but also Barbershop, Doo Wop, Patriotic, and Gospel. We have been singing and entertaining in the area for over five years and in 2019 performed the National Anthem for the Orlando Magic basketball game. We had a standing ovation! We look forward to singing for you and having an all-round good time. The last Community Social Potluck of the year will be held at noon at the Clubhouse on December 11. Bring a dish to share! Sign up online or at the Clubhouse Activities Office. GREAT HOLIDAY LIGHT TOUR Voting for the best decorated house in Lake Ashton will run from December 9 — 20. Stay tuned to email blasts for the voting form and more information. HOLIDAY SOCK EXCHANGE Share your Holiday Spirit with a Holiday Sock Exchange! Jingle your way to the Clubhouse on December 6 at 1:30 pm with a brand-new pair of Holiday socks (both men’s and women’s socks) filled with goodies (individually wrapped sweets, gag gifts, ornaments, etc.) to exchange by playing a fun game with friends and neighbors. Sign up online or at the Clubhouse Activities Office. LA SEW DAYS By Carolyn Bluhm Quilters/people who sew who would like to join us putting together quilt tops for Military veterans living here in the LA Community are invited to come out December 7 from 9 am to 12 pm at the HFC. We are providing thread, fabric, basic patterns, have 2 sewing machines to use, and any instruction if needed. Just bring your excitement, sewing machine and scissors. Don’t sew? We need people to help as a greeter, iron and use fabric cutters (we will show you how). If you cannot attend and want to help, contact Carolyn Bluhm for a kit to work on wherever, whenever you wish. A Quilt of Valor® is our award to Service Members and Veterans that says, “thank you for your service and sacrifice in serving our nation.” Contact Carolyn if you are coming to Sew Days and the role you would like to play at 719.510.1088 or chbluhm@outlook.com.
CAROL-OKE WITH LAPAC By Cheryl Winchester Enjoy a fun, free event for all Lake Ashton residents! LAPAC (Lake Ashton Performing Arts Corporation) is holding their second annual Carol-oke event on December 14 from 7 to 10 pm at the HFC. Free limited tickets are available at the HFC Activities Desk. Contact Cheryl Winchester at 305-725-4946 for more important information and to collect a box that needs to be decorated for your table. HOL I D A Y G OL F CART PARADE By Carolyn Bishop It is that time of year again to adorn your golf cart and join the parade! The Annual Holiday Golf Cart Parade is on Friday, December 20. Clubs, groups, and organizations are encouraged to create a “float” and join in. Line-up will begin at 5:30 pm at the HFC with Kick-off at 6. There will be a Cookies and Cocoa reception at the Clubhouse following the parade. All residents and guests are welcome. Donations of cookies are needed for the reception. Please sign up online for cookie donations. Parade participants do not need to sign up - just SHOW UP! Thank you to our sponsor: Performance Golf Carts. Parade route: HFC towards pet park, right on Torrey Pines, left on Dunmore, right on Limerick, right on Dunmore, right on Ashton Club Blvd to the Clubhouse. OUTDOOR MENORAH LIGHTING Hanukkah begins the evening of Wednesday, December 25, and ends the evening of Thursday, January 2. Everyone is welcome to celebrate Hanukkah, which is Hebrew for “dedication,” also known as the Festival of Lights, by coming to an outdoor Menorah Lighting, on December 26 at 5:30 pm in the Clubhouse West Parking Lot presented by the Chabad Jewish Center. NEW YEAR’S EVE 2025 is almost here!! No need to make those New Year’s Celebration plans, we’ve done that for you! Rock the year away with 99 in the Shade starting at 8 pm and toast to the New Year with a glass of bubbly (non-alcoholic will be available). A charcuterie table and cash bar will also be available. Charm City will be having a New Year’s Eve dinner prior to the event. Make lasting memories at either the traditional photobooth or the 360-photo booth, burn the bad vibes of 2024 in the fire on the patio, and welcome in 2025 with a fresh start! Get your tickets online for $35 before December 23! THE ALANS MAGIC Enjoy a night of magic and wonder with the Alans on January 17 at 8 pm in the Clubhouse Ballroom! Their performances are a tantalizing mix of magic and mentalism with quick wit and real-world relatability, crafting experiences that leave audiences delighted. The Alans are notorious for catering their act to the venue and audience, making each show a unique experience. Grab a cocktail from the Restaurant and join us for a night of magic. Purchase your tickets at the Clubhouse Activities Office or online starting December 4 for $15! ELVIS’ 90TH BIRTHDAY Join us for a celebration of the King's 90th birthday on January 10 at 7 pm in the Clubhouse Ballroom! Dance all night to Elvis' hits and more played by a DJ and indulge in delicious birthday cake. And let's not forget about the Elvis costume contest! The winner of the contest will win a prize and be featured in the LA Times! Purchase your tickets for $15 online starting December 3.
CHILI COOK-OFF By David Harrison The LA Purple Stars will have it's Chili Cookoff fundraiser for the American Cancer Society January 24, 2025 from 4 to 6 pm in the Clubhouse Ballroom. There will be twenty different chilis, cornbread, water and baked goods. Residents can sign up online or at the Clubhouse Activities Office to cook chili or donate baked goods which should be individually wrapped for the dessert table. Tasting tickets must be purchased in advance at the Clubhouse. Twelve tickets for $10, cash or check payable to LA Purple Stars. We will limit sale to 200 strips of 12. Each ticket allows you to taste one chili. New this year, Charm City, our sponsor, will be selling cups of beer for $4 and the corn bread, water and baked goods will cost $1. There will be judges for the "best" chili and prizes will be awarded for first and second place. We will also have a “People's Choice" award. Questions? call David Harrison 863-326-6418. A HUGE THANK YOU FROM LAPAC! By Cheryl Winchester The Lake Ashton Performing Arts Corporation (LAPAC) Board and its volunteers would like to give a huge thank you to the Lake Ashton Community. We had a great turnout for our “It’s The Great Pumpkin Dance Party.” Even more, we had a successful fundraising event! We want to thank those who attended but also to the many donors of the Silent Auction baskets and items that helped to raise the funds that LAPAC will utilize in our upcoming showcase in March of 2025. We would also like to give a special thank you to our Silver Sponsors, Denise Tessier from Tessier Law Firm and Anita Piasecki from A+ Realty including our Bronze Sponsor, Lake Ashton Woman’s Bible Study Group for their donations! Keep a look out for upcoming articles that will provide details of our show in March of 2025. The creative team and volunteers are already working hard to put on a great show in the spring! PETS ON PARADE The Second Annual Howl-O-Ween Pets on Parade Costume Contest was held October 31 with over 20 participants. Our 3 judges had a hard time choosing their favorites with so many adorable pups. A generous cash donation was made to the Humane Society of Polk County. Thank you to our sponsor: Denise Tessier of Tessier Law Firm. Winners pictured above left: Scooby Doo Mystery Bus team, Witch and Mini-me witch, and 50s Rockers. At right and below are some other adorable participants!
LAKE ASHTON CLUB FAIR 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 Fair on February 5 in the Clubhouse Ballroom from 10 am - 12 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 should register online, or at the Clubhouse Activities Office beginning December 2. 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 online or at the Clubhouse Activities Office. TRAVEL CLUB FORMATION Are you interested in being part of an organizational team to create a Travel Club at Lake Ashton? This Club would organize bus trips, extended domestic and international trips, cruises and more for residents. If you are interested please contact cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com. SAVE THE DATE : F INE ARTS & PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW Calling all Lake Ashton Photographers and Artists! Time to get busy with your cameras and paint brushes. The 17th Annual Lake Ashton Fine Arts & Photography Show is coming up March 8, 2025. Applications and more information will be forthcoming in early January. SAVE THE DATES FOR UPCOMING EVENTS AT THE CLUBHOUSE February 12, 2025: CCC & AED Class February 14, 2025: Valentine’s Day Event
CLUBS LA BLACK HERITAGE CLUB By Pamela June As the holiday season approaches, the LABHC extends warmest greetings to all. May this festive time be filled with joy, reflection, and celebration of the rich tapestry of cultures that enrich our community and nation. Let's embrace the spirit of unity and togetherness, as we reflect on our shared history and look forward to a future of progress and hope. The LABHC wishes everyone a Happy Holiday, Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa. LABHC will celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday as a Day of Service with a Food Drive January 18, 2025 from 10 am to 2 pm in the Clubhouse parking lot. The food drive will stock the Lake Wales Care Center Pantry. This is open for all to participate in a Day of Service activity by donating nonperishable food. Tell your churches, groups and friends in the surrounding area. More info to come. CAMERA CLUB By Larry Hillock If you’re interested in photography and would like to share your enthusiasm and knowledge with others, please join us at one of our Camera Club meetings. Our December meeting will be held on Monday, December 9 at 10:30 am in the Clubhouse Cinema. Each month we strive to broaden our knowledge through educational videos and presentations. Members also share their photos and knowledge. All Lake Ashton residents regardless of photography skill levels are invited to attend. CHESS CLUB By Howard Mayne Yes, Virginia, Lake Ashton has a Chess Club! We meet in person for friendly games on Thursdays at 1:30 pm in the Poker Room at the HFC. Some of our members play each other online. Players of all levels are welcome. We also offer informal lessons for those who want them, at times which suit your schedule. Questions? Contact Howard Mayne 603-285 5640 or howard.mayne@gmail.com. GARDEN CLUB By Pam Klawinski Lake Ashton’s Garden Club met November 13 with Sil Wells demonstrating a creative way to continue to enjoy our garden plants with dried flowers. The next meeting is Wednesday, December 11 in the Pavilion at 10 am. We will have a “Plant Swap” and light refreshments to celebrate the Holiday Season. The club meets every second Wednesday of the month. No green thumb required. GENEALOGY CLUB By Jane Imparl The next meeting of the LA Genealogy Club will be Wednesday, December 11 at 2 pm in the HFC Craft Room. Come see how DNA can help with your genealogy research. All levels of expertise are welcome. Questions? Call Jane at 815-545-6655. SINGLES CLUB By Carol Corley There was a good turnout at our November meeting, where single Lake Ashton residents planned upcoming activities, such as our Christmas Party, our monthly Thursday afternoon Mingle, and weekly card games. Cards are every Sunday at 2 p.m. at the Clubhouse Ballroom. The Singles Club also adopts Senior Orphans and provides Christmas gifts for them. The Senior Orphans are elderly Polk County residents who have no family and are on a very low income scale. The gifts requested by these people are usually very simple and necessary, like blood pressure cuffs and sometimes pajamas or even food for a pet. Our club members either choose gifts to purchase or donate money to help with the cost. Hope to see some of you at a future meeting. You would be most welcome.
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Do you love to vegetable garden? The newly created Lake Ashton Community Garden will � hold a Meet & Greet at the HFC Card Room. Day: December 6, 2 - 4 pm Evening: December 11, 6 - 8 pm Special Guest Speaker: Gene the Barefoot Gardener on December 6. Contact: (412) 398-1843 LACommunityGarden2024@gmail.com ITALIAN AMERICAN CLUB By Susie Escoda The holidays are here so join us on Thursday, December 19 at the HFC at 6 pm for our Christmas potluck. Please bring a dish to share (desserts are taken care of) a beverage and $1 to cover costs. No RSVP needed. Questions? Call Susie Escoda at 863-206-6566. CANADIAN CLUB By Heather & Ken Miyauchi Calling all Canadians! After the hiatus for COVID, last year we all enjoyed renewing old friendships as well as welcoming new friends. Please join us again for great food, lively conversation, entertaining games, and even a few laughs on Thursday, January 9, 2025. Doors open at 5:30 pm with dinner served at 6. Dinner will include Top Round Beef, Grilled Chicken Breast, Scalloped Potatoes, California Blend Vegetable Medley, Garden Salad, French Rolls, and Iced Tea. Disposable plates, utensils, and napkins will also be provided. You only need to bring your beverages and glasses. Unfortunately, due to increased costs, we have had to raise our price for the first time since the inception of our club in 2012. Still, $20 per person remains a bargain for a three-course dinner which is $15 not including tip and tax. Sign up by December 31 at the HFC Activities Desk with a $20 check payable to Ed Willis (club treasurer). Looking forward to seeing everyone on January 9! LA BELLES By Michelle Meuser The next LA Belles luncheon will be January 29, 2025 at noon at Charm City. This will be a no hostess luncheon. All ladies are welcome and this would be a perfect time to try this group. We meet the last Wednesday of each month. PEBBLES & PINES By Jill Groves Our annual holiday potluck, "Have a Tropical Holiday!" will be held at the HFC on Saturday, December 7 from 5 to 8 pm. RSVP needed no later than December 2. If you haven't received an email with the details and you reside in the LAPP neighborhood (Pinehurst Loop & Pebble Beach that reside to the North of the HFC), please contact Jill Groves 419-902-7966. MAGIC YEARS CLUB By Lynne Judd The Magic Years Club consists of anyone who currently enjoys all things Disney and is willing to share their knowledge with others. We welcome anyone who has vast experience with the Disney Parks as well as those who want to learn more about them. The Club meets on the second Monday of each month at 7 pm in the HFC Craft Room. For December we have reservations to eat at the Columbia Restaurant in Celebration instead of an actual meeting. Members are also invited for a tour of the fabulous Disney decorations at the home of Debbie and Pat Rapp on December 11, where we will also share holiday snacks that our members will bring. Our meeting for November was small but a lot of fun. We shared our favorite parade or show and everyone participated in a Disney trivia game. High scorers won a set of Disney ears! Our next meeting will be on January 13.
Brad Kirwan’s Lake Ashton Customers Discuss His Real Estate Work Brad Goes Above and Beyond… Brad, my husband Jimmy and I would like to thank you so much for your spirit of excellence with the recent purchase of our Lake Ashton home. You are extremely efficient and knowledgeable concerning every aspect of the real estate industry, especially in Lake Ashton. You went above and beyond the call of duty to help make our dream come true. We are extremely grateful to have the pleasure and privilege to work with you and call you a neighbor and a friend. Jimmy & Donna Rogers – 19 October 2024 Verified by RateMyAgent MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY HANUKKAH Curious about your home’s current market value? Call for a free Comparative Market Analysis. BRAD KIRWAN 863.280.0390 33
LAVA AUXILIARY By Chris Graves person General Meeting will start at 6:30. Speaker(s) are TBA. Email lakeashtondemocraticclub@gmail.com for more information. The December meeting is Wednesday December 18. We will be having our annual holiday Dinner at Charm City. Time is still to be determined at the time of this writing. All are welcome. THANK YOU! This year’s Craft Fair had a profit of more than $6,000. Thank you to Charm City and another big thank you to the many bakers and volunteers. We had more than 900 people attend the Craft Fair. It is due to the generosity of you, our Lake Ashton neighbors that helped make this event a success. Many of you donated your time to make some very, very tasty sweets. The LAVA Auxiliary once again helped in the kitchen and at the bake d goods display, selling raffle tickets and so much more. The 2025 Craft Fair will be on October 25. This year’s Craft Fair had the vendor spaces sold out months before. We have already received 13 applications for next year. If you would like to be a vendor for the 2025 Craft Fair, you may pick up the application packet at the Clubhouse Activities Desk. God Bless America! LA ROCKERS By Annie Lutz Now that the busy Holidays are here, the LA Rockers will not be meeting in December. We will resume in January. Keep looking for rocks and if you are lucky enough to find a rock, please post a photo of your rock on Talk of Lake Ashton’s (TOLA) Facebook page. It means a lot for us to see where our rocks go. Wishing everyone a Happy Holiday and a Wonderful New Year! LA DEMOCRATIC CLUB By Paul Ritz The Lake Ashton Democratic Club is holding their monthly meeting December 5 in-person only at HFC Community Center. Social time with snacks will be from 6 to 6:30 pm. Please bring your own beverage. The inLA REPUBLICAN CLUB By Linda Sandel The Lake Ashton Republican Club will meet Wednesday, January 22 at the Clubhouse. Checkin and social time starts at 3:30 pm and the meeting begins at 4 pm. LARC will be holding the annual Board Member elections. Nominations will be open so please attend and consider serving. It's always a great team! Please invite friends and neighbors. 2025 is going to be an exciting year and we look forward to you being part of it! Contact Linda Sandel at 863-368-0699 for more information. LA SWIM CLUB By Sandy White Special thanks to Swim Club members who once again raised funds to help sponsor the annual LA Pink Ribbon golf tournament. SENIOR GAMES NOTICE It's that time of year when swimmers start aiming to participate in the annual Polk County Games swimming meet. It will be in Lakeland on the first weekend in March and will consist of 14 events, with medals awarded by gender and by 5-year age groups, to the top 3 in each event. Our swim club has had medalists and state championship qualifiers every year for the past 6 years. All the participants started out as fitness swimmers and have used competition as motivation to stay involved and stay fit. The local and regional meets also serve as a qualifier for the Florida State Senior Games Championships. The top 5 in each event qualify. The Swim Club has organized workouts at the HFC on Mondays and Wednesdays at 1 pm, plus Saturdays at 10 am, for fitness swimmers and competition swimmers. For more info contact coach Sandy at sandyw1994@aol.com, or come in person.
LA PICKLEBALL By Chuck Caesar It has been a busy and fun filled fall for the Lake Ashton Pickleball Association. We wrapped up October with a Halloween Mixer on Friday, October 25. Twenty-eight players participated and everyone was dressed in their Halloween Costume. The champions for the mixer were Deb Knecht and Sue Klauser for the women, and Wes York and Robbie Shields for the men. Following the Halloween Mixer, we had the finals of our Fall Mixed Doubles League. Thirteen teams competed in the league. The finals consisted of a double elimination tournament. There were a lot of great matches and in the end, Christy Negrin and Kevin Baral defeated Deb Louder and Rich Vanpraet for the championship. Coach Dennis Santino has bee conducting Newbie Clinics throughout the fall for people interested in learning to play pickleball. He is going to take the month of December off but will schedule more clinics after the first of the year. If you are interested in participating, be watching for the email blast. We hope that everyone has a joyous Holiday Season with family and friends. Special thanks to all of our LAPA members for making 2024 a great year. We look forward to even more fun in 2025. If you are not currently a member but would like to join in on the fun and fellowship of the Lake Ashton Pickleball Association, you can fill out a membership form at the HFC. Dues are only $12 per year. FRIENDLY BOCCE GROUP By Stephanie Iszak 2025 promises to be an exciting year for the Friendly Bocce Group. We would like to invite all Lake Ashton residents to come out on Mondays and Fridays from 10 am to 1 pm to play some fun games of Bocce Ball. No experience is required. Anyone who is playing would be more than happy to teach you and go over the Lake Ashton Bocce Ball rules and regulations. For 2025 we will try something different for our residents. A “Newbie Clinic” is scheduled for January 8 and January 15, 2025 from 10 am to 12 pm. This is a great opportunity to come out and learn the game. TAKE CHARGE OF LIFE’S TRANSITIONS <#$3$* @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 Friendly Bocce Tailgate parties for 2025 will be held January through April from 4 to 6 pm on the first and third Fridays of the month. Bring your drinks and an appetizer to share. This is a great opportunity to socialize and play some games. The annual potluck dinner is scheduled for January 14, 2025 from 5 to 8 pm at the HFC Community Center. Bring a drink of your choice and a dish to serve for a fun night of food and friends. Plates, napkins, and utensils will be supplied. If you plan to attend the potluck a signup sheet will be available in the HFC on the wall, or text/email Stephanie Iszak at 609-980-9505 or at siszak@comcast.net or Tammy Shields at 863-632-2024 or at tammy.shields1221@gmail.com to sign up or with any questions. Our Friendly Bocce Tournament will be held in March 2025. More details to follow. Looking forward to having many new Friendly Bocce players.
LA TRAVELERS By Laurie Cayton & Carolyn Bishop Ballroom for a Social Hour and Rally Update from 3:30 to 5 pm. If you ever wondered what the LA Travelers are all about, come socialize with us. The Lake Ashton Travelers headed up to Ocala, FL in October to enjoy a Rally at Silver Springs State Park. Rally participants enjoyed excursions such as visiting Don Garlits Drag Racing Museum and taking a glass bottom boat tour. The Rally was well attended and included a movie under the starlight. DUPLICATE BRIDGE By Don Fuller & Liz Leigh Duplicate bridge is played on Monday at 12:45 pm in the Clubhouse Card Room. The game is open to all residents regardless of skill level. Participants should have some experience playing bridge plus a partner is required. We have approximately 60 players in the group and can assist new players in finding a partner. Advance registration is encouraged by using the Red Book in the Clubhouse Card Room, or contacting Don Fuller at dfuller627@yahoo.com to register or receive more information. The LA Travelers headed down to West Palm Beach for a 4 night rally at the Lion Country Safari KOA. Friends, fellowship and food was plentiful. A drive through the Lion Country Safari was the highlight. Rock painting and sea glass art was offered to the creative travelers and an Escape Room adventure challenged several of our members. The group is the longest running club in Lake Ashton with over 160 current members, and one of the largest FMCA Chapters in the Southeast. The annual Christmas Party will be held on December 8 in the Clubhouse. If you want to join the group, contact either Maureen Sim who heads up the membership drive until December 31 at 863-604-0309. After that contact Lori Thomas who will serve as the new Vice President over Memberships at 931-809-0705. The Travelers meet every Tuesday in the Clubhouse 37 October 14: North-South 1st Jim Ford & Don Fuller; 2nd Marian Oshinsky & Trish Kellar; 3rd Char Walters & Liz Smith; East-West 1st Doug Robertson & Judy Robertson; 2nd Sally Bonkoski & Colette McKie; 3rd Liz Leigh & Mafie Walker October 21: North-South 1st Sonny Robinson & Pat Foster; 2nd Marian Oshinsky & Trish Kellar; 3rd Marion Nelson & Roger Nelson; East-West: 1st Nelda Sedlacek & Maureen Ziegler; 2nd Marti Dehn & Marge Kniat; 3rd Graham Littlehales & Howard Mayne October 28: 1st Doug Robertson & Judy Robertson; 2nd Sonny Robertson & Pat Foster 3rd Howard Mayne & Graham Littlehales; 4th Jim Ford & Don Fuller November 4: North-South 1st Jim Ford & Don Fuller; 2nd Doug Robertson & Judy Robertson; 3rd Marion Nelson & Roger Nelson; East-West 1st Colette McKie & Sally Bonkoski; 2nd; 3rd Pauline Pare & Nelda Sedlacek; 3rd Marian Oshinsky & Maureen Ziegler November 11: North-South 1st Doug Robertson & Judy Robertson; 2nd Trish Kellar & Marian Oshinsky; 3rd Dick Dole & Lois Dole; East-West 1st Tom Fleming & Graham Littlehales; 2nd Marti Dehn & Marge Kniat; 3rd Colette McKie & Sally Bonkoski.
MIND&BODY SCAN WITH YOUR SMARTPHONE TO SIGN UP FOR CLASSES & EVENTS AT THE CLUBHOUSE! ‘TIS THE SEASON FOR HOLIDAY STRESS By Dr. Pamela June The holiday season, while full of joy and celebration, can also bring a significant amount of stress. It's important to remember to take care of yourself amidst the hustle and bustle. Here are Six Do’s and Don’ts for managing holiday stress. 1. Don’t ignore any sense of loss. Do acknowledge your feelings and allow yourself to grieve if you're missing loved ones. This is necessary and is integral to healthy grieving. 2. Don’t stay alone. Do reach out, connect with others and/or volunteer. Doing so can provide support, purpose and joy. 3. Don’t overdo it. Do set realistic expectations regarding holiday activities to help prevent exhaustion and/or disappointment. 4. Don’t be afraid to say “no”. Do create a budget and stick to it for gifts and festivities to keep financial worries or overextending yourself from adding to the stress of the season. It’s perfectly okay to say no to events that don't fit into your schedule or budget. 5. Don’t forget to breathe. Do take time for yourself, whether it's a quiet moment with a book, silent meditation, or a short walk, self-care is key to managing holiday stress. 6. Don’t forget basics stress management skills. Do keep these basic stress management skills in mind including: getting enough sleep, consuming a generally healthy diet, drinking caffeine in moderation and doing some form of exercise. The holidays are a time to enjoy, not endure, so give yourself permission to do what's best for you. Remember the essence of the holidays is to embrace the Reason for the Season and to foster the Spirit of the Season in sharing joy, kindness, love and generosity. TRIVIA Join us every Sunday in December at the Clubhouse Ballr oom for Trivia! It is only a $1 and all funds go to the top 3 winning tables! Doors open at 6 pm and the game starts promptly at 7. Teams of up to 8 players work together to answer the questions. Don’t worry if you don’t have a team; facilitators will gladly help you join a table. See you for Friends, Fun and Food on Sundays at Trivia! LORRIE’S LINE DANCING All classes in December will be on Thursdays at the HFC. 1 pm Beginner Class, 2 pm Improver Class. December 26 will be a combined Class Dance. Come join us in December to learn line dancing to some Christmas Music. Everyone is welcome to join us. Line dancing is a fun way to keep moving while having fun. TAP JAMMERS Facilitator: Julie Bombard (jbombard73@gmail.com) Fridays, 10 to 11am at the HFC Sport Court or Clubhouse Stage. Free! Email Julie for information and updated class venue. LINE DANCE: NEWBIES & BEGINNERS Instructor: M. Christine Baxter Tuesdays 7 to 8 pm: Newbies (no experience needed) 8 to 9 pm: Beginners (basic steps known) Thursdays 9 to 10 am: Newbies (no experience needed) 10 to 11 am: Beginners (basic steps known) Come out for the first hour, stay as long as you like. Our main goal for each hour is to have fun and enjoy the exercise of line dance. Remember to bring your own water for hydration. There is no cost involved, just be ready to have a good time.
MIND BODY SOUL Simply Healthy Everything is Connected MONDAYS ✴ 9 am: Weight Training - HFC ✴ 10 am: Beginning Chair & Balance - HFC ✴ 11 am: Classical Stretch - HFC ✴ 12 pm: Aqua Reloaded - HFC Pool ✴ 3 pm: Free Virtual Meditation Session via Zoom: yogawinterhaven@gmail.com TUESDAYS ✴ 8:30 am: Water Aerobics - Outdoor Pool ✴ 9 am: Chair Yoga - Clubhouse Ballroom, $5, no equipment or experience needed ✴ 9 am: Cardio Swing & Yoga Cool - HFC ✴ 10 am: Functional Fitness - HFC ✴ 4 pm: Aqua Motion - HFC Pool WEDNESDAYS ✴ 8:30 am: Water Aerobics - Outdoor Pool ✴ 8:45 am: Yoga Share - Clubhouse Ballroom ✴ 9 am: Triple B (Bat Wings, Bellies & Bulges) - HFC ✴ 10 am: Aqua Reloaded - HFC Pool ✴ 5:25 pm: Zumba Gold - HFC - $5 39 THURSDAYS ✴ 8:30 am: Water Aerobics - Outdoor Pool ✴ 9 am: Cardio Swing & Yoga Cool - HFC ✴ 10 am: Functional Fitness - HFC ✴ 11 am: Classical Stretch - HFC ✴ 4 pm: Aqua Motion - HFC Pool FRIDAYS ✴ 8:30 am: Water Aerobics - Outdoor Pool ✴ 9 am: Back to Basics - HFC ✴ 10 am: Aqua Reloaded - HFC Pool ✴ 5:25 pm: Aqua Zumba - HFC pool - $5 ✴ 6 pm: Clinton’s Boot Camp - HFC - $5 SATURDAYS ✴ 8:30 am: Water Aerobics - Outdoor Pool ✴ 10:30 am: Clinton’s Boot Camp - HFC - $5 SUNDAYS ✴ 10 am: W.IN. - HFC - $5 ✴ 3 pm: Aqua Zumba - HFC pool - $5 POP Pilates is coming to LA! Join us for a FREE Sneak Peek at the HFC December 10 at 10:30 am. Instructor Rebekah Spangler will guide you through a sculpting lower-intensity workout that allows you to truly tone muscles from head to toe. With highenergy music and a fun atmosphere, it feels like a dance on the mat! With focus especially on the core, POP Pilates will help with balance, as well as flexibility and endurance.
BOB ROSS OIL PAINTING Instructor: Kay Lenherr December 14 at 1 pm Clubhouse Craft Room Silver Bell $35 (payable at class). Sign up online or at the Clubhouse Activities Office by noon December 13. CARDS FOR ALL AGES Join in December 4 at 2 pm at the Clubhouse Craft Room for our card making class. We will be making 2 Christmas Cards for $5. You will need your tool kit. Space is limited, so you must contact Judy Ridpath at 650-678-1174 or Marianne Morcone at 860-712-9440 for your reservation. We also have a special treat as well. See you then! FUSED GLASS CLASSES Holiday Project Class Friday, December 6 from 10 am to 1 pm at the Clubhouse Craft Room. Each student will select from two types of projects. Either a glass tree with a birch log stand or a glass design with a votive/candle holder. You must sign up at the Clubhouse Activities Office with a $40 check payable to Jill Groves. Holiday Ornaments Sunday, December 8 from 1 to 4 pm at the HFC Craft Room & Friday, December 13 from 10 am to 1 pm in the Clubhouse Craft Room. Create two ornaments from numerous possible designs. You must sign up at the location where the class will be held with a $40 check payable to Jill Groves. All materials included. No Lifetime Limited Warranty Guaranteed Low Pricing 12 Months No Interest1 Free No-obligation In-home Quotes 863-400-5082 • WindowWorldPolkCounty.com 101 Industrial Blvd. West, Winter Haven, FL This Window World® franchise is independently owned and operated by Window World of Polk County Inc. d/b/a Window World of Lakeland under license from Window World Inc. Fully licensed & insured. License No. CBC1257854 Previous sales are excluded and offers cannot be combined. Minimum 10% down required when ordering. ¹No interest if paid in full within 12 months with regular monthly payments. Bank approval needed. Must qualify. Ask for details. previous experience necessary for any project. Contact Jill Groves with any questions at 419-902-7966 or manorridgecreations@gmail.com HOLIDAY SEASHELL CRAFT Create a one-of-a-kind holiday seashell craft on December 3 at 11 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom for $5. Sign up online today! DOG TRAINING SEMINAR A “Dogs and the Perfect Environment” seminar with Marco Magiolo will be held on December 7 at 10 am in the Clubhouse Cinema. If you are interested in attending, please contact the LA Unleashed club for more information. Email cbbishop61@gmail.com to reserve a spot and pay. CRAFTING WITH CARMEN Carmen is back with a fun project! Learn how to create a holiday stemless wine glass on December 10 at 3 pm in the Clubhouse Ballroom. All supplies and instructions will be included for $12. Reserve your spot online for this class today! NATIONAL PUZZLE DAY Puzzles are a great way to exercise your brain while relaxing at the same time. Celebrate National Puzzle Day on January 29, 2025 by picking up a puzzle from the Media Center or by doing a puzzle in the Ballroom at 2 pm!
GOLF LAMGA By David Kubissa Important league business dominated the fourth quarter of the year, with an updated set of bylaws going before the membership and passing by a wide margin of 74-4. The changes clarified officers’ duties and revised wording, including a section that complies with financial guidance recommended during LAMGA’s annual audit. As this article goes to press, the annual election to fill three board seats was scheduled to take place with results to be announced at the Dec. 4 annual meeting and luncheon. Enrollment forms for the 2025 season came out the last week in November. The board set annual league dues at $35, effective Feb. 1, 2025. Members who enroll before that date will pay the current rate of $25. In other business, the board set the dates for the 2025 Member-Guest Tournament as Thursday, March 6 – Saturday, March 8. Enrollment will open in January. The annual Red Hoagland Hyundai Challenge that began in January 2024 ended on Oct. 23. The competition recognizes the four golfers who earned the most money in pro shop credits during the weekly LAMGA games. In a tight battle for first place, Doug Hines came in first, after finishing second in 2023. Doug along with the other three top finishers will receive gift certificates, courtesy of Red Hoagland Hyundai. The top finishers are pictured below, left to right, with the amounts they earned during the season: 1. Doug Hines, $187; 2. Mike Krigelski, $182.30; 3. Steve Kettells, $180.90; 4. Frank Vasquenza $156.25. Pictured right: Jim Kutsch, one of several LAMGA members in the November 9 Pink Ribbon Day Tournament, completed his outfit with a special pair of shorts just for the occasion. Sponsor salute: Thanks to the following businesses that contributed to the LAMGA program this year: Charm City, Lake Wales Family Restaurant, Ovation Bistro & Bar, Schack’s Bar-B-Q, Sizzling Grill. LA NINERS By Sandy Hockenberry Donations from the Niners’ this year are going to Snively Elementary School’s Baskets of Giving event. The Niners generously donated items such as toys, beauty items, candles, jewelry, crafts, gift cards, etc. These donation items will make up baskets for a raffle. Students are encouraged to read books, and then take an AR test to earn tickets to put in the raffle basket of their choice. If they win a raffle basket, it will be given as a gift for a family member this holiday season. A special shout out to new Niner, Sophia Utnick-Brennan and her foundation, LA Hands 4 Hope for their substantial donation. The LA Niners would like to welcome new members: Sandra Alford, Tassy DeAngelo, Barb Farmer, Cecily Harmon, Pamela Langell, Debbie Shillito and Sophia Utnick-Brennan. If you are interested in joining the Niners, please stop in the Pro Shop for an application. Everyone is welcome and we are looking forward to a fun-filled season! The December games will be: Dec. 3: 4-Person Scramble Fun Day (team game) followed by a Holiday Luncheon at the Eagle’s Nest. Dec. 10: Throw Out One (individual game) Dec. 17: Shamble – Two Best Nets (team game) Dec. 24: Convert 1 Hole to PAR (individual game) Dec. 31: Step-Aside Scramble (team game) The Niners would like to wish you and yours, a safe, happy and healthy holiday season! 41
LALGA By Beverly Hines We want to welcome our newest LALGA member, Brenda Bowden. Games for December: Dec 3 – Individual Play; Dec 10 – Team Play; Dec 17 – Ribbon Tournament; Dec 24 – Team Play; and Dec 31 – Toss Out the Old Year, Roll in the New Year Partner Play. Check the LALGA online registration or bulletin board for more information and to sign up. Red Hoagland Challenge update: Sue Buss 1st place $104.25; Shearly Simpson 2nd place $93.25; Sandra Lancaster 3rd place $85.00; and Bev Hines 4th place $83.50. The LALGA Opening Day Golf, Luncheon and Annual Meeting was held November 12 with 70 members attending. With the theme being Odd Socks Day, members flaunted their favorite or funny socks while playing a 4-Person Scramble. After golf the Eagle’s Nest served lunch of soup and salad and, of course, Sock-ItTo-Me cake for dessert. Online registration via the LA Living website is going well. Members who have not tried it are encouraged to do so for December events. Our Holiday Luncheon is scheduled for December 10. We’ll have a festive menu with seasonal treats and possibly a special guest. Plan to attend and enjoy a jolly good time with your LALGA friends! December 2-12, 2024 is our annual We Care for Kids Toy Drive. We collect toys to bring some joy to the lives of needy tots through teens across Polk County. The Solheim Cup pairing party will be at lunch time on January 7 and tournament is the 13 — 14. Sign up will begin December 10. Watch for more information from Mur Bouman and her committee. 42 SPECIAL RESTAURANT ADVERTISING SECTION 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: Mon - Thurs 11:30 am-8 pm; Fri & Sat 11:30 am-9 pm; Sun 12-7 pm We serve delicious Seafood, Steaks (including Prime Rib), Burgers, Pizza, Salads, Chicken, Pork Chops, Pasta, Wings, AYCE Specials & a Full Liquor Bar. 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.
Lake Ashton’s 2024 Home Improvement Expo December 4 from 10 am to 12 pm Clubhouse Ballroom Meeting a potential contractor personally is the most valuable way to select a professional and reliable expert for home improvement projects. VENDORS VENDORS INCLUDE: Air Conditioning/Refrigeration Cleaning & Detailing Design Electrical Glass & Windows Grout & Tile SPONSORED BY: DEMOS PRIZES Irrigation Locksmiths Painting Property Management Roofing Solar And more!
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