L.A. TIMES Lake Ashton Community Newsletter February 2022 WATCH THE BIG GAME ON THE BIG SCREEN! see p. 24 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
NEWSLETTER STAFF Christine Wells Editor cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com 863.324.5457 Valerie McCutcheon Advertising Sales, Layout & Design valerie@lakeashtoncdd.com SUBMISSION GUIDELINES March Issue Deadline: Feb. 14 • Articles can be submitted on behalf of Lake Ashton clubs/ groups/organizations to promote lifestyle enhancing, opportunities, and must be approved by the group leader prior to publication • Email articles to: valerie@lakeashtoncdd.com • 150 word limit. Articles will be edited for length and clarity • Include your club contact and phone number • The writing style is third person — avoid using I, me, my, we, our, or personal pronouns Photo Specifications: • All photos must be high-res digital images in “jpeg” format and submitted via email or CD/flash drive • Space will generally allow only one photo per article • The designer and printer will make the final determination as to the print quality of photographs for publication THE LAKE ASHTON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT DOES NOT ENDORSE OR SUPPORT ANY PARTICULAR POLITICAL CANDIDATE, PARTY, MEASURE OR ISSUE, OR ANY PRODUCT OR SERVICE. ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Clubhouse Office Manager: Sheila Moreland 863.324.5457 smoreland@lakeashtoncdd.com Clubhouse Operations Manager: Matt Fisher 863.956.6207 mfisher@lakeashtoncdd.com HOA Office (LW) Ashton Tap & Grill - Edward Pagano, GM Golf Club - Ron Lavoie, General Manager Matt Auen, Assistant Pro Eagle’s Nest Vicki Moore, Manager RV & Storage Center 863.325.0065 manager@lakeashtonhoa.org 863.324.5810 ma2077@metzcorp.com 863.326.1032 863.326.1032 rlavoie@lakeashtongc.com mauen@lakeashtongc.com 863.326.1085 vmoore@lakeashtongc.com 863.326.1304 dholmes@lakeashtonstorage.com Police Non-Emergency Numbers: Lake Wales: 863.678.4223 Winter Haven: 863.291.5858 Polk County Sheriff: 863.298.6200 In case of emergency, dial 911 3 FEBRUARY 2022 Lake Ashton employees are at your service. We want your experiences in the Clubhouse, Golf Course and HFC to be as pleasant and memorable as possible! Do not hesitate to contact any of the below with comments, questions or concerns. Lake Ashton Clubhouse 4141 Ashton Club Drive Lake Wales, FL 33859 Phone: 863.324.5457 Fax: 863.324.5829 Lake Ashton Health & Fitness Center (HFC) LACDD Community Director: Christine Wells cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com Clubhouse Activities Assistant: Caroline Lane 863.324.6032 clane@lakeashtoncdd.com 6052 Pebble Beach Boulevard Winter Haven, FL 33884 Phone: 863.595.1562 Fax: 863.595.1567 LAIICDD Community Director: Mary Bosman mbosman@lakeashton2cdd.com HFC Activities Office Manager: Krystle Funk 863.595.1562 kfunk@lakeashton2cdd.com Gate Houses & Security Officers: Thompson Nursery Rd. (LW): 863.324.7290 County Road 653 (WH): 863.318.0237
MONDAY COFFEE Don't miss Monday Coffee at 9 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom with your friends and neighbors. Bring $2 for coffee and donuts! FEBRUARY 7 Birthdays and Anniversaries Featured Speaker: Refuge on the Ridge Featured Vendor: ServPro FEBRUARY 14 Bite Me Monday Blast from the Past with David Harrison Featured Speaker: The Ritz Theatre Featured Vendors: Edward Jones - Matthew Simpson, and Lake Howard Heights and Encompass Home Health will be sponsoring FREE COFFEE AND DONUTS to celebrate Valentine's Day! FEBRUARY 21 — NO MONDAY COFFEE — PRESIDENTS’ DAY Peanut Butter Monday - donations can be dropped off to the Ballroom Kitchen FEBRUARY 28 — NO MONDAY COFFEE — LACDD BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETING CLUB, GROUP & ORGANIZATION PRESENTATIONS Group Leaders - please reach out to Christine at cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com if you would like to present your group at an upcoming Monday Coffee! This is a good way to introduce residents to the many activities that make Lake Ashton "Simply the Best". IN THIS ISSUE NEWS 6 LA LOOKS 18 SAFETY 20 MOVIES 22 EVENTS 24 GOLF 30 CLUBS 32 MIND & BODY 36 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETINGS LAKE ASHTON II (WH) CDD Friday, February 18, 2022 9 am — HFC LAKE ASHTON (LW) CDD Monday, February 28 9:30 am — Clubhouse Ballroom CIT Y COMM I S S I O N 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.
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HOURS OF OPERATION CLUBHOUSE: 6 am – 10 pm, 7 days a week CLUBHOUSE OFFICES & ACTIVITIES DESK: 9 am – 5 pm Monday through Friday Photo ID Hours: Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 11 am to 4 pm or by appointment ASHTON TAP & GRILL: 11 am to 8 pm Tuesday — Saturday 10 am to 8 pm Sunday (Brunch 10 am to 3 pm) HFC OFFICES & ACTIVITIES DESK: 8 am – 4 pm Monday through Friday HEALTH & FITNESS CENTER: 5:30 am – 10 pm , 7 days a week THE CLUBHOUSE OFFICES & ACTIVITIES DESK WILL BE CLOSED MONDAY, FEBRUARY 21 IN OBSERVANCE OF PRESIDENTS’ DAY NEXT MONTHLY MARKET: February 16 from 10 am to 2 pm in the Clubhouse West Parking Lot RED ROOSTER PRODUCE & BAXTER’ S QUAL ITY MEATS will be in the Clubhouse West Parking Lot 1st, 2nd & 4th Wednesdays 1 to 3 pm10 am to 3rd Wednesday 2 pm (during Monthly Market) BOOKMOBILE February 9 & 23, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm (closed for lunch 12:30 to 1:15 pm) 6 - John and Lisa Savala NEW RESIDENT SOCIAL The next New Resident Social will be held on March 11 at 2 pm at the HFC. Please sign up at either Activities Desk, or on the online signup form sent out via email blast. Thank you to all to helped celebrate Lisa's 60th birthday and make it such a success. Thanks for the cards, gifts, balloons and flowers, but mostly thank you for your presence. Special thanks to Ron and Arlene Torakis, Carl and Linda Boast and Vern and Amy Frahm for their efforts in putting it all together. CLERICAL SERVICES AVAILABLE AT THE CLUBHOUSE AND HFC OFFICES DURING BUSINESS HOURS • Local or toll free fax: $1 first page and $0.25 each additional page • Long distance fax: $2 first page and $0.25 each additional page • Receiving fax: $0.25 per page • Black and white copies on white paper: $0.05 per side (8.5x11) • Black and white copies on colored paper: $0.10 per side (8.5x11) • Color copies: $0.25 per side (8.5x11, white paper)
LACDD NEWS By Christine Wells, LA (LW) CDD Community Director Lake Ashton is at peak population and staff is enjoying hearing laughter throughout the Clubhouse as residents welcome back those gone for the winter and others that have not been back to their Lake Ashton home in two years! Residents are enjoying seeing Entertainment Series shows that have been on hold since March 2020 and are excited to get back to some of the activities that are just now starting back. Staff is working hard to ensure a robust activity schedule is available for those who want to get out and enjoy time with friends and neighbors. In this edition of the LA Times, residents will find classes, entertainment shows, themed parties and more to celebrate the season. There is even a special Valentine's Day Dinner at Ashton Tap and Grill on Monday, February 14 from 4 to 8 pm (reservations only). Please remember, hand sanitizer, masks and gloves are always available for residents when attending any event or activity at the Clubhouse. With being at peak population please remember parking can sometimes be difficult when attending certain events. Golf carts should be parked with both wheels touching the curb when in the circular drive. Carpooling is also encouraged to help maximize parking during large events. Additional golf cart parking is available on the basketball court during high attendance events. Please be on the lookout for signage directing residents to this area. Supervisors and staff would like to welcome Debby Landgrebe to the Lake Ashton Board of Supervisors. She was appointed to fill seat 4 at the January 24 Board of Supervisors meeting. The board also approved of the replacement of paver walkway lights on the pathway west of the Clubhouse main entrance and the installation of surge protectors to help prevent future damages. A wrap-up report of additional actions taken at the meeting was sent out on January 26. The next Board of Supervisors meeting will be held on Monday, February 28 at 9:30 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom. LACDD BOA R D O F SUP E RVISO R S CONTA CT INF O Robert (Bob) Plummer, Chairman Security, Operations and Staff Valentine’s Day Dinner Menu $38/person, Reservations Required Amuse Bouche Pan Seared Sea Scallop with Chorizo First Course Sherried Shrimp Bisque or Winter Greens with Fresh Raspberries & Champagne Vinaigrette Entrée Grilled Filet Mignon with Cabernet Demi Glace, Au Gratin Potatoes & Asparagus or Horseradish Potato Crusted Salmon Filet with Pink Champagne Butter Sauce & Asparagus Dessert Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse in White Chocolate Cup Glass of Champagne 8 260-820-0389, rplummer@lakeashtoncdd.com Michael Costello, Vice Chairman Clubhouse Facilities including Outdoor Amenities (Dog Park, Pool, Sports Courts) 863-875-9228 or 732-718-7431, mcostello@lakeashtoncdd.com Lloyd Howison, Assistant Secretary Golf Cart Paths, Bridges and all Ponds 704-302-6555, lhowison@lakeashtoncdd.com Steve Realmuto, Assistant Secretary Budget, Finance, Reserve Study 863-949-0304, steve.lacdd@gmail.com Office Hours: 2nd Monday, 10 am to noon in the Clubhouse Conference Room Debby Landgrebe, Assistant Secretary 863-268-8193, dlandgrebe@lakeashtoncdd.com
LAIICDD NEWS By Mary Bosman, LAIICDD Community Director The LA II Board has been very busy acting on requests of the residents. Some of the areas of discussion include the following: The construction was approved to build a golf cart path connecting Sawgrass and the existing golf cart path. A professional evaluation will be scheduled to evaluate the Pickleball courts and will be reviewed by the LA II Board at a future meeting. Consideration and adoption of a term sheet for the Refunding of the Series 2006 A Bonds and a vote for authorizing staff to prepare the necessary documents for closing occurred. Pet play areas will get a rehabilitation plan developed for future Board funding consideration. A resident funded project was approved for Winged Foot Lane pet play area. The Pebble Beach/Rattlesnake Lake wetland project was discussed. The maintenance agreement failed on a vote pending further discussion. Security was discussed and LA II CDD will have manned security 8 hours daily going forward. Projects that are currently being completed as a result of previous LA II Board approval, include the new recumbent bike in the Fitness Center, new flooring in the Racquetball and Sports Courts, new LED lighting in the HFC, new windscreens and a securing rail have been added to the pickleball courts, electric hand dryers and ADA door openers have been installed in the HFC bathrooms. Also, the HFC and West Gate House have been painted on the exterior along with the front doors to the HFC being refinished. The water volleyball net has been replaced and a new pool stop clock are in place in addition to the entry landscape beds being redone on Ashton Boulevard. At the Joint BOS Meeting, the new rate for the non-resident user fee was voted to be increased to $4,000/annually. This is a safeguard for all residents so that they never pay more than a non-resident to use the Lake Ashton amenities. The Joint Amenity Policy report will be presented at the next Joint BOS meeting on April 18, 2022. Please join us at the HFC for our Valentine Dance on Friday, February 11 and the next LA II Board meeting on Friday, February 18. LA II CDD B O ARD O F SU P ERVISORS CONTA CT INF O Jim Mecsics, Chairman - Public Safety, Security, Amenities and District Support Office Hours: Tuesdays 9:30 am to 12 pm, 863.875.4554, mecsicsj@msn.com Bob Zelazny, Vice Chairman - Golf Course, Pro Shop, Eagle’s Nest, Facilities and Field Operation Office Hours: Mondays from 1 to 3 pm, 863.325.8098, bzelazny@lakeashton2cdd.com Mary C. Clark, Assistant Secretary - Budget, Planning 252-503-7087, maryclark725@gmail.com Angela Littlewood, Assistant Secretary - Public Works, Special Projects Office Hours: Thursdays at 9 to 10:30 am, 352.250.9707, alittlewoodlakeashton2cdd@gmail.com Colette McKie, Assistant Secretary - Grounds and Landscaping, Transportation System, Office Hours: Thursdays from 1 pm to 3 pm, 10
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GAME ROOM REMINDERS With card tables, poker tables, and billiard tables available for use in the Game Room, anyone booking a reservation in the Clubhouse Game Room should be aware that the room will be available for multiple activities at the same time. For example, if someone has reserved the room to play cards or conduct a meeting, the room will still be available for open play on the billiards tables. If this does not match your needs staff will try their hardest to find a room that will be better suited for what you require. Please contact Christine Wells, LA (LW) CDD Community Director with any questions or concerns at cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com or 863-324-5457. CLUBS, GROUPS, AND ORGANI ZATIONS REMINDERS It is exciting to see so many residents enjoying the amenities and staff wants to ensure all residents have an equal opportunity to book a room for a new activity or join one of the groups that currently meet at the Clubhouse and HFC. Residents interested in joining a new group should visit the Activities Desk in the building that the group currently meets in to obtain the contact information for the facilitator of the group they are looking to join. When booking a standing reservation, facilitators will need to indicate if prior registration will be required for residents to join the club, group or organization, or if it is open to residents to join without registering with the facilitator. In keeping with the Joint Amenity Facilities Policies, there are no personal “standing” weekly reservations allowed for the Amenity Facilities listed in the reservation policies. Clubs, groups, and organizations may make “standing” reservations. To be considered a club, group or organization the following criteria must be met in its entirety. Any club, group or organization (collectively, “Clubs”) desiring to utilize the Amenity Facilities activities display space, Coffee Meetings, or the LA Times newsletter to promote Club activities must be registered with the Amenity Manager and meet the following criteria: 1. Clubs must be comprised of a minimum of at least five (5) active members; all members must be Residents or Renters/Leaseholders. 2. No Club may be formed, and no activities held within the Amenities Facilities, for commercial or profit-making purposes. 3. The purpose of each Club must be to provide lifestyle-enhancing opportunities to Residents or Renters/Leaseholders and not to effectuate sales of products or services. No one household can profit from the club. Clubs may generate funds through dues and proceeds from Club organized events. If a Club chooses to generate funds, a check-and-balance system must be in place as well as a Club checking account. 4. Club membership and Club activities must be available to all Residents or Renters/Leaseholders. Criteria for Club membership should be governed by the individual club’s by-laws. 5. Rules applying to the formation and admissibility of Clubs may be modified at the discretion of the Boards. 6. Violations of these Policies by any Club may result in the loss of that Club’s privileges within the Amenity Facilities. Please contact LA (LW) CDD Community Director Christine Wells at cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com or 863-324-5457, or LAII (WH) CDD Community Director Mary Bosman at mbosman@lakeashton2cdd.com or 863-595-1562 with any questions or concerns. 12
MEET THE NEW GM OF ASHTON TAP & GRI LL : EDWARD PAGANO Born in the Bronx and raised in upstate New York, Edward’s family owned a motel which sparked Edward’s interest in service. After moving to Florida, Edward returned to New York to attend culinary school. After school, Edward returned to Florida where he met his wife Shannon and had a son, Nicolas. Edward moved to Kentucky for a five year span that included a position as Dining Service Director at Asbury Theological Seminary as his wife pursued graduate school. Passionate about food and its possibilities, Edward Pagano has been making magic in restaurants for over thirty-five years. Edward graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY. After culinary school, working in valued establishments such as the Hemsley Palace, The Algonquin and the Ritz Carlton provided Edward on the job skill for fine dining and management. Edward co-owned a small restaurant in Winter Haven, FL which earned four stars. Additionally, Edward has owned a private chef service and catering company which provided service for events such as the Lakeland Derby two years in a row. Believing his talents and gifts should be shared, Edward uses these gifts and has been involved in feeding many local clubs and churches. IS YOUR DOG A DIGGER? Residents will find clay pots with sand and shovels at the Clubhouse Pet Play Park. These are here to fill holes due to dogs digging. This will help the grass to grow back and prevent tripping hazards. When 13 using the Pet Play Parks and walking dogs around the amenities please be a good neighbor and pick up after your dog. There are pet waste stations with bags at the Pet Play Park and an additional one located at the beginning of the golf cart path just west of the Clubhouse Tennis Courts. When using the Clubhouse Pet Play Park, if you see any areas in need of extra attention please contact Christine Wells at cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com or 863-324-5457. ENTRANCE GATE REMINDER Please be safe when coming through the community entrances. There have been recent reports of tailgating, speeding, cutting people off, and hitting gate arms. This is a busy area and Security Officers are often outside checking vendors and visitors in and we want that area to be as safe as possible for them and everyone else. 2022 CITY OF LAKE WALES COMMISSION ELECTION Lake Wales residents please mark your calendar for April 5, 2022 for the next Commission election. Voting for all Lake Ashton residents that live in Lake Wales will take place in the Clubhouse Ballroom. Candidate packets are prepared by the City Clerk and will be available on February 4, 2022. The qualifying period for the 2022 Commission Election will begin at 12:00 noon on Monday, February 14, 2022 and end at 12:00 noon on Friday, February 18, 2022. Please visit polkelections.com for more information.
REPUBLICAN CLUB THOMPSON NURSERY ROAD CLEANUP By Linda Sandel A Lake Ashton litter clean up event is scheduled for Thompson Nursery Road on February 9 at 9:30 a.m. P l e a s e m e e t a t t h e Clubhouse lobby to pick up assignments, safety vests, trash bags and gloves. A sign-up sheet is available at the Clubhouse Activities Desk. There will also be new free t-shirts and a Bok Tower ticket for each volunteer. Come have fun and get some exercise while keeping this community beautiful! Contact Linda Sandel if you have any questions at 863-368-0699 or sandelly7@gmail.com. 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. 14 HOMELESS GRADUATING SENIORS By Doris Reisigner Can you believe the world is still dealing with COVID?! There are also still many high school seniors who are ready to graduate this year who are dealing with homelessness on top of everything else. These are graduates who hope to attend Polk State College in the fall, but as they graduate their support ceases until they attend school in the fall. You can help with any size donation, small or big — gift cards, cash, and checks payable to Polk County Public Schools will be accepted at both the Clubhouse and HFC Activities Desks. Attend the presentation by Vicki Griffith from the Polk County schools accounting office at Monday Coffee on March 28. Call Doris at 217-652-6636 with any questions.
WILLS WHAT IS “BEST OF HAVEN?” Best Attorney TRUSTS ELDER LAW Each year in August The Haven Magazine asks its readers who, in their opinion, is the best in Polk County. There are over 100 categories, one of which is Attorneys. Readers must go to the link, find the category, and type in their selection. WE’RE GRATEFUL TO OUR CLIENTS WHO’VE VOTED US THE BEST! 15 863.676.6000 www.lakewaleslaw.net 240 E. Park Ave. Lake Wales, FL 33853 2021 Best Of HAVEN
JOINT AMENITY FACI L ITIES POLICY HIGHLIGHT Each month an excerpt from the Joint Amenity Facilities Policy will be featured in the LA Times. The full Joint Amenity Facilities Policy can be found at lakeashtoncdd.com or lakeashton2cdd.com under "Additional District Documents". Questions regarding these policies can be directed to Christine Wells, LACDD Community Director (cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com) or Mary Bosman, LAIICDD Community Director, at (mbosman@lakeashton2cdd.com). CHILD CARE: The District will not offer childcare services to Patrons or Guests at any of the Amenity Facilities. SKATEBOARDING: Skateboarding is not permitted on the Amenity Facilities property at any time. Roller blading is permitted on cart paths and roadways only. OUTSIDE ENTERTAINMENT: Performances at any Amenity Facility, including those by outside entertainers, must be approved, in advance, by the Amenity Manager. ADVERTISING: Advertisements for Commercial Purposes shall not be posted or circulated in the Amenity Facilities. Petitions, posters, or promotional material shall not be originated, solicited, circulated or posted on Amenity Facility property unless approved, in writing, by the Amenity Manager. COMMERCIAL PURPOSES: Activities with Commercial Purposes must have approval from the Amenity Manager UNATTENDED GUESTS: Amenity users should not leave Guests who have adverse or debilitating health conditions unattended in any of the Amenity Facilities or District property. PROGRAM/ACTIVITY APPROVAL: All programs and activities, including the number of participants, equipment and supplies usage, facility reservations, etc., at all Amenity Facilities must be approved by the Amenity Manager. MANAGEMENT SPONSORED EVENTS: The Amenity Manager has the right to authorize management-sponsored events and programs to better serve the Patrons, and to reserve any Amenity Facility for said events (if the schedule permits) and to collect revenue for those services provided. This includes, but is not limited to, various athletic events, cultural programs and social events, etc. LOITERING: Loitering (the offense of standing idly or prowling in a place, at a time or in a manner not usual for lawabiding individuals, under circumstances that warrant a justifiable and reasonable alarm or immediate concern for the safety of persons or property in the vicinity) is not permitted at any Amenity Facility. COMPLIANCE TO STATUTES: Individuals shall abide by and comply with any and all federal, state and local laws and ordinances while utilizing the Amenity Facilities, and shall ensure that any minor for whom they are responsible also complies with the same. EQUIPMENT: The Districts maintain a limited amount of equipment to support individual activities such as Bocce, Billiards, Pickleball, Racquetball, Shuffleboard, Yoga, and exercise classes. Please check their availability with the Amenity Manager. Patrons are encouraged to provide their own equipment for recurring use. 16
* *special extended until 2/28/22
LA LOOKS LA ( LW) HOA CORNER By Ken Rickey HOA Board Of Directors: • President Ken Rickey, president@lakeashtonhoa.org • Vice President David Muller, vp@lakeashtonhoa.org • Treasurer Bob Prowant, treasurer1@lakeashtonhoa.org • Secretary Keith Stevens, secretary3@lakeashtonhoa.org • Secretary Debby Landgrebe, secretary1@lakeashtonhoa.org or you can reach all the directors at once using directors@lakeashtonhoa.org. A new Director will be appointed at the Annual Meeting on February 27. Tom Hevel will be filling the position that Keith Stevens has filled since his appointment last summer. The Board would like to thank Keith for his willingness to serve, his attention to detail and his long-standing expertise in helping to guide the HOA BOD these past eight months. Welcome to the Board, Tom. The Members’ Annual Meeting is February 27 at 2 pm in the Clubhouse Ballroom. This is your meeting to bring attention to your concerns and wishes. In order to conduct business and vote on any issue, there must be a quorum of at least 97 lot owners. The future vote on the Restated CC&Rs will be delayed until the lawyer can complete their review and the HOA can reconcile their comments. There will be some Member communications on the final document prior to scheduling a vote. While all are eager to complete this task, everyone wants it executed properly and systematically. Regarding the $60 annual assessment: There is an administration fee of $5, a late fee of $25, and interest is charged at 18% per year (1.5% monthly) for late payments. Liens are also an option. Assessments are due on February 15. Thank you to you who have already paid. SUBMITTING ARC REQUESTS ( LW RESIDENTS) By Iris Realmuto, LW ARC Chair All external changes you make to your home require an ARC request and approval prior to starting any project. To submit an ARC request, go to lakeashtonhoa.org and download the form found under the Documents tab in the Architectural Information section. Complete the form by hand or on your computer, then email the completed form to admin@lakeashtonhoa.org. DO NOT USE THE ‘SUBMIT NEW REQUEST’ feature on the website. The form can also be found on the Clubhouse information wall. You can either drop the completed form in the HOA box or have it scanned at the Clubhouse Office prior to dropping it in the HOA box. The deadline for submissions is 5 pm on Wednesday prior to the next ARC meeting. The ARC meets the second and fourth Wednesday of each month. You will be notified of the status of your request within a few days of the meeting.
Wildlife Corner Photo & Article By Barbara Ann Comer The ubiquitous Palm Warbler is familiar to many Lake Ashton residents. It is the little bird that lands on the lanai screen and wags its tail up and down. They forage for bugs even in the middle of busy roads like Ashton Club Drive. The plumage on this diminutive bird can vary greatly depending on age and from whence the bird hails. Eastern ones sport a yellowish breast while the ones from farther west are mainly drab. The constant tail bobbing is one of the best clues as to their identity. This snow bird derives its name from its wintering grounds being closely associated with Palm Trees. A better name for it on its nesting grounds would be the Bog Warbler since it nests in brush at the edge of spruce bogs quite far north. Keep your eyes open for this little winter resident before it departs for the boreal bogs by late March. AQUATIC EDUCATION CORNER We have dead fish in our pond. Is there something wrong? A few dead fish floating on the surface is not necessarily cause for alarm. The majority of fish kills that occur are due to a variety of natural causes. Fish can die of starvation, injury, stress, disease, parasites, lack of dissolved oxygen in the water, changes in pH, and even rapid fluctuations in temperature. Low dissolved oxygen levels are the most common cause of fish kills. The amount of oxygen in a body of water will vary with water temperature, aquatic plant densities and amount of sunlight. During the rainy season heavy runoff from rain water which does not contain dissolved oxygen can deplete the dissolved oxygen levels in a pond and cause a fish kill. Heavy rains also wash organic material, nutrients and fertilizers into the ponds, accelerating plant growth which can lead to depleted oxygen levels. These same rain events also carry herbicides, pesticides and pet waste into stormwater ponds. Ammonia, which comes from animal waste, is highly toxic to fish. LOW-HANGING BRANCHES By Ralph Marino Please be aware that there is a fourteen-foot height restriction for branches reaching over the road. This is a City of Lake Wales Ordinance. If the code officer receives a complaint, the code officer will investigate. If a violation exists, a letter is then sent. If it is not corrected within fifteen days, the complaint then goes to the Code Enforcement Board.
SAFETY NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH FORUM AT MONDAY COFFEE By Fay Wood, NW Chief It is time again for your NW Leadership Team to present what is happening in and out of Lake Ashton and throughout Lake Wales and Winter Haven. Special guests include the Lake Wales and Winter Haven Police Chiefs discussing what is happening in their cities. CAP (Citizens Assisted Patrol) Team members and other NW Partners such as Security Officers are also welcome to join in this important meeting at Monday Coffee, March 7 at 9 a.m. in the Clubhouse Ballroom. If you have specific questions to be answered, email them to fswperson@aol.com and these will become the questions of priority during the meeting. If time permits the Q&A will be opened to the audience. Let everyone continue to work together to keep this beautiful community safe and crime free all year long. There will also be a very special guest at Monday Coffee on March 14 - stay tuned for more information, because you won't want to miss either of these important community events! CERT CORNER - E.D.I.T.H . By James Schuppe That’s right Archie, E.D.I.T.H. (Exit Drill In The Home) can save your life. Planning ahead of time in case of a fire can make the difference of life or death. You may only have a few seconds after you hear the smoke alarm to exit the home before the smoke becomes so thick you can’t see. Practice your escape routes (you need two) at least two times a year. Having a planned second route just may save your life in case the route you would usually take is blocked by fire or debris. Your second route might be as simple as a window in your bedroom. If you can’t climb out on your own, open the window and yell for help even before the fire department arrives. 20 After exiting the home, you should have a designated meeting place. This should be away from your home yet visible for when the fire department arrives. Letting the fire department know that everyone is out of the home, where the fire started, or if a person is still inside is extremely valuable information. If you are able to exit the home on your own, this is the time to call 911 and report the fire — not while inside. If you are trapped or unable to exit on your own, call 911 immediately and calmly give that information to the dispatch person. This will give valuable information to the fire department and assist them in getting you out of the house when they arrive. Close the door between you and the fire if possible. The more barriers between you and the fire the better. Stay in one location and if possible stay close to a window, yell for help and signal your location by waving clothing or by using a flashlight at night. This is extremely important for all, but especially if you have a disability preventing you from exiting on your own quickly. CITIZEN’S ASSISTED PATROL (CAP) By Mike Weissberg CAP is always looking for more volunteers to patrol the streets. Come help be the eyes, ears, and presence for the Sheriff’s department. Patrols are once a week for two hours. Applications are available in the Clubhouse and HFC. For more information contact Mike Weissberg 863-324-3541 (please leave a message). 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.
MOVIES The Black Heritage Club Presents: A Black Film Festival to Celebrate BLACK HISTORY MONTH ALL TUESDAY SHOWINGS ARE CLOSED CAPTIONED. CINEMA CAPACITY: 55 FEBRUARY 1 — 3 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM HIDDEN FIGURES 2016 | PG | 2h 7min Three brilliant African American women at NASA -- Katherine Johnson (Taraji P. Henson), Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer), and Mary Jackson (Janelle Monáe) -- serve as the brains behind one of the greatest operations in history: the launch of astronaut John Glenn into orbit, a stunning achievement that restored the nat ion's confidence, turned around the Space Race and galvanized the world. FEBRUARY 8 — 10 (NO 3 OR 7 PM SHOWINGS ON FEBRUARY 10) 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM HAMILTON 2020 | PG-13 | 2h 40min The original Broadway production of the award-winning musical that tells the story of Alexander Hamilton, first secretary of the treasury, blending hip-hop, jazz, R&B and 22 22 Broadway styles, filmed from the Richard Rogers Theater in New York with the original Broadway cast. Grammy, Emmy, and Tony award winner LinManuel wrote and stars in the performance along with Emmy and Tony award winner Leslie Odom Jr., Renée Elise Goldsberry, Daveed Diggs, Christopher Jackson, and more. FEBRUARY 15 — 17 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM GLORY 1989 | R | 2h 2min Following the Battle of Antietam, Col. Robert Gould Shaw (Matthew Broderick) is offered command of the United States' first all-African-American regiment, the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry. With junior officer Cabot Forbes (Cary Elwes), Shaw puts together a strong and proud unit, including the escaped slave Trip (Denzel Washington) and the wise gravedigger John Rawlins (Morgan Freeman). At first limited to menial manual tasks, the regiment fights to be placed in the heat of battle. Denzel Washington won the Oscar for Best Actor in a Supporting Role. FEBRUARY 22 — 24 FENCES 2016 | PG-13 | 2h 13min Troy Maxson (Denzel Washington) makes his living as a sanitation worker in 1950s Pittsburgh. Maxson once dreamed of becoming a professional baseball player, but was deemed too old when the major leagues began admitting black athletes. Bitter over his missed opportunity, Troy creates further tension in his family when he squashes his son's (Jovan Adepo) chance to meet a college football recruiter. Viola Davis won the Oscar for Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role. The play by August Wilson, “the theater's poet of Black America,” won the Pulitzer for Drama in 1987.
MAY 7 CLASSIC & SPECIAL INTEREST MOVIES ARE SHOWN IN THE CLUBHOUSE CINEMA ON FRIDAYS AT 11 AM (CC) & 3 PM FEBRUARY 4 (NO 3 PM SHOWING) LILIES OF THE FIELD 1963 | NR | 1h 35min Aimless ex-soldier Homer Smith (Sidney Poitier) is on his way to California when his car overheats in the desert. He stops to get some water at an isolated farm and soon finds himself building a chapel for the nuns who live there. The stern mother superior (Lilia Skala) is certain God has sent Smith for just that purpose, and all of Smith's words to the contrary fall on deaf ears in this Oscar-winning film from director Ralph Nelson. Sidney Poitier became the first AfricanAmerican actor to win the Academy Award for Best Actor and the second African-American Oscar winner overall for his portrayal of Smith. FEBRUARY 11 (NO 3 PM SHOWING) RESPECT 2021 | PG-13 | 2h 25min Follow the rise of Aretha Franklin's career from a young child singing in her father's church's choir to her international superstardom in the remarkable true story of the journey to find her voice and become the Queen of Soul. Stars Jennifer Hudson, Forest Whitaker, Marlon Wayans, Audra McDonald, and more. FEBRUARY 18 CARMEN JONES 1954 | NR | 1h 48min Screen version of the musical "Carmen Jones," which adapted Bizet's opera Carmen for an African-American cast. After the beautiful but troublemaking Carmen (Dorothy Dandridge) sets her sights on pilotin-training Joe (Harry Belafonte), he leaves his girl, 23 deserts the Army and kills a man, prompting the couple to flee from justice. Soon, the tragic events they've set in motion come full circle. Dandridge become the first African American nominated for the Best Actress Academy Award for her role. FEBRUARY 25 SHE’S GOTTA HAVE IT 1986 | R | 1h 24min This is a black and white comedydrama written, produced, directed and edited by Spike Lee. It was Lee’s first feature film to be released and it earned many positive reviews and launched his career. In 2019 it was accepted into the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress because of its historical and cultural significance. Nola Darling is free-spirited and free-thinking, but she can't seem to choose between a trio of ill-suited suitors: relationship-minded Jamie, shallow male model Greer and motormouthed bike messenger Mars Blackmon.
EVENTS UPCOMING AT THE HFC! Happy Hour Karaoke will be held February 4 from 7 to 10 pm. There is a $5 entry fee, and a $10 table reservation. BYOB and snacks! SUPER BOWL PARTY Ge t y o u r t i c k e t s f o r t h e Don’t miss the Valent ines’ Dance on February 11 from 7 to 10 pm. There is a $10 entry fee and $10 table reservation. BYOB and snacks! Clubhouse Super Bowl Party and watch the big game (and commercials!) on the big screen! The party kicks off on February 13 at 5:30 pm (please note time change) in the Clubhouse Ballroom. The game starts at 6:30 so you’ll have time to play fun football themed games and chow down on game food that includes a slider station, nacho bar, and chicken tenders bar. Your first beer, wine, or nonalcoholic drink is on us! There will also be a cash bar with beer bucket specials. Tickets are $25 at the Clubhouse Activities Desk with a check (LACDD), Visa, or MasterCard. LA ASHTONETTES & SHAKERS AT MARDI GRAS The LA Ashtonettes and the LA Shakers have been FEBRUARY’S EVENTS Valentine’s Day Dinner Monday, February 14th Seatings from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. Reservations Required Weekly Entertainment Includes: February 6th - Sunday Funday with Quittin Time 3:00 - 6:00 p.m. February 13th February 20th - Join us for the Big Game Party - Sunday Funday with Carlos & Company - 3:00 - 6:00 p.m. February 27th - Sunday Funday with Randy Goin’ Solo - 3:00 - 6:00 p.m. www.ashtontapandgrill.com or (863) 324-5810 Join us Every Sunday for Brunch For Reservations Visit or Call: invited to participate in the Lake Wales Mardi Gras Parade on Saturday, February 26. The Parade begins at 3pm. Lake Ashton's long time friend, Family Elder Law of Lake Wales, has generously provided sponsorship. Bring a chair and join the revelers to cheer on Lake Ashton's very own marching groups. MARDI GRAS AT THE CLUBHOUSE Parti Hardi on Fat Tuesday at the Clubhouse’s Mardi Gras Party on March 1! roll on down to the Clubhouse at 7 pm and let the good times roll. Enjoy B. Haven live on stage while munching on red beans and rice with andouille sausage, boudin stuffed cornbread cakes with red eye gravy, and king cake cream cheese cupcakes, amidst immersive Mardi Gras décor. Parade down to the Activities Desk on February 7 after Monday Coffee to purchase your $20 tickets with a check (LACDD), Visa, or MasterCard. There will be a Fiscal Fitness Presentation on February 19 at 7 pm sponsored by Premier Events that will feature a meal provided by Ashton Tap & Grill at no charge, plus each attendee will receive a free Mardi Gras ticket. Sign up at the Clubhouse Activities Desk.
HOLIDAY CHEER WINNERS AT MONDAY COFFEE David Fix (far left) won 1st place in the Gingerbread House Contest, and Janice Serenko won 2nd. They each received gift certificates to Ashton Tap & Grill. George Pollock (right) won the Ugly Sweater Contest and a bottle of wine from Tessier Law Firm. HOLIDAY CLASSIC A BIG SUCCESS ! The Holiday Classic Cornhole Tournament on December 7 turned out to be lots of fun and great competition for the teams. The Popcorn Team came back from the losers’ bracket to take home the first prize trophy and money. Sponsoring was Lake Ashton resident Jim Weaver, who has been a strong pillar for the cornhole tournaments at the HFC. First place winning team members of Popcorn are residents Ted Harmon and Ervin Konrad who endured eight straight games to take home the top win. Second place winners are Tom Graaman and Ralph Ritter. Third place winners are Tammy and Robbie Shields. Congratulations to these skilled cornhole enthusiasts! The tournament was a successful group effort by the residents who participated, Tournament Coordinator Ken Keding, volunteer scorekeepers Danny Freedman, Gerald Revet, James Margeson, and Roger Bosman, and the entire HFC staff. The next tournament will be March Maddness on March 4. Get your teams ready by coming to league play that starts in January! Watch for more news on the tournaments and league play coming soon. If you have any questions about playing, contact the HFC Activities Desk at 863-595-1562. Mardi Gras PARTY MARCH 1 at 7 pm Clubhouse Ballroom B.HAVEN LIVE ON STAGE! MENU: RED BEANS & RICE WITH ANDOUILLE SAUSAGE, BOUDIN STUFFED CORNBREAD CAKES WITH RED EYE GRAVY, & KING CAKE CREAM CHEESE CUPCAKES TICKETS: $20 AT THE CLUBHOUSE ACTIVITIES DESK Laissez les bons temps rouler! 25 25
RELAY FOR LIFE By David Harrison The LA Purple Stars will have its last fundraiser of this year by selling luminary bags and tea lights for a minimum donation of $10 and acrylic hummingbirds for $5 at Monday Coffee starting February 7. After every Monday, the luminary bags will be sold at both Activities Desks. Decorate the bag to remember a family member or friend you have lost to cancer or someone still fighting this disease. Return the bags to any LA Purple Stars member or Activities Desk by March 14. All Lake Ashton residents are invited to join the Walk for a Cure at 6 pm on March 18 in the Clubhouse West parking lot to walk around the pavilion and end back at the Clubhouse circle to view all the luminary bags. Any questions call David Harrison 863-326-6418. 2022 FINE ARTS & PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW The 14th Annual Lake Ashton Fine Arts & Photography Show will be on display in the Clubhouse Ballroom on March 19 from 12:30 to 4 pm. Lake Ashton photographers and artists can pick up entry forms and guidelines at the Clubhouse Activities Desk. Entry forms must be turned in by February 4. The show is open to all Lake Ashton residents, attendance is free and refreshments will be provided. 2022 SHOWCASE - TIME AFTER T IME By Karen Nelson Time is nearing for the long awaited LA Community Showcase, after a two year virus hiatus. The show, TIME AFTER TIME, will have opening night on Friday, April 8 at 7:30 pm. The matinee is Saturday, April 9 at 1:30 pm and will have a longer intermission than the two evening shows. Closing night is Saturday, April 9 at 7:30 pm. Your friends and neighbors have been working diligently on their singing and dancing to present a unique Showcase. 26 Residents may bring their 2020 Catch & Release tickets to the Clubhouse Ballroom on the following dates to exchange for the same seats in 2022: February 22 from 10 am to noon March 1 from 10 am to noon March 2 at 9 am March 3 at 9 am March 4 at 9 am Any 2020 tickets not exchanged by end of day on March 4 will be forfeited. Public ticket sales begin at 8 am on March 8 in the Clubhouse Ballroom. March is National Crafting Month! A resident crafter or crafting group will be highlighted throughout the month. Each crafter or group will host a class teaching how to make a specific craft. Take a look at the list below to see what exciting classes to sign up for at the Clubhouse Activities Desk! Prices include all the materials required to make the craft. Wednesday, March 2 at 10 am – Create beautiful handmade cards with resident crafter Donna Rorick for $10/person, limited to 24 people. Tuesday, March 15 at 10 am – Resident crafter Jill Groves will be teaching how to make gorgeous wire-wrapped creations for $10/person. Tuesday, March 22 at 10 am – Learn how to paint your own decorative rocks with the LA Rockers for $2/person. Wednesday, March 30 at 10 am – Make your own fashionable eyeglasses holder that can double as a necklace with The Art of Beading for $2/person.
Live Entertainment Returns to Lake Ashton! Lake Ashton Presents DUELING PIANOS FEBRUARY 25 2022 FEATURED SHOWS 7 pm Showtimes Premium Tickets: $25 Regular Tickets: $20 Tickets on Sale at the STARS & STRIPES MAY 6 Clubhouse Activities Desk (Bring your Lake Ashton Resident Photo ID to purchase with Visa, MasterCard, or Check Payable to LACDD) Get your requests ready on FEBRUARY 25, and sing along to wild night of DUELING PIANOS where you decide the entertainment! KAZUAL will captivate your rhythmic senses by blending harmonious sound with their intoxicating vocals and dancing on APRIL 14! Travel back in time to the ‘60s on APRIL 22 with the PAISLEY CRAZE FLOWER POWER SPRING SHOW, a five-piece band playing the hits of the decade. JOHNNY WILD & THE DELIGHTS will pay tribute to veterans MAY 6 with STARS & STRIPES … a stirring evening of patriotic music, comedy, performance and spectacle. PAISLEY CRAZE APRIL 22 KAZUAL APRIL 14 The Doo Wop Reunion headliner show from 2020 is rescheduled for March 3, 2022. CELEBRATE, a tribute to the great vocal bands from the '60s and '70s, is rescheduled for April 1, 2022. If you purchased tickets in 2020, there is no charge for the rescheduled shows. You will use your original ticket from 2020 for these two shows, even if you upgraded for 2022. New tickets are available for purchase at the Clubhouse Activities Desk. Ticket Prices: 5 PM Regular: $24 | 5 PM Premium: $29 8 PM Regular: $29 | 8 PM Premium: $34 Lake Ashton Sign up at the Clubhouse Activities Desk for the following 2022 trips with a check payable to Small World Tours: 2022 ENTERTAINMENT SERIES TICKET SALES Individual tickets are on sale at Bus Trips the Clubhouse Activities Desk while supplies last. Limit one per resident. Individual Ticket Prices: 5 pm Regular $21 | Premium: $26 8 pm Regular $26 | Premium $31 each FEBRUARY 18 - ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLE AT THE BROADWAY PALM DINNER THEATER $99/PP MARCH 17-18 - JUNGLE QUEEN RIVERBOAT $245/ PP (SINGLE SUPPLEMENT + $65) - FINAL PAYMENT DUE BY FEBRUARY 2 APRIL 12 - STARLITE MAJESTY CRUISE & SUGAR SAND FESTIVAL $79/PP - CURRENTLY FULL BUT NAMES ARE BEING TAKEN FOR A WAIT LIST JUNE 15 - BARBARA LEE LUNCHEON CRUISE $89/ PP - NO REFUNDS AFTER JUNE 1 SAV E T H E S E D AT E S : MARCH 27: ACADEMY AWA R D S WATC H PA R T Y IN THE CLU BHOU S E AP R I L 1 5 : BLUES PARTY IN THE CLU BHOU S E MORE DETAILS TO CO M E ! 28
Brad Kirwan’s Lake Ashton Customers Discuss His Real Estate Work Brad Kirwan, my 6-star agent!! Early in my decision to move to Tennessee for the next chapter of my life, I thought I would sell my home on my own. Avoiding a realtor commission seemed like a smart idea. People were doing it; why shouldn’t I? My son and daughter and their spouses came for a weekend, we met with my financial advisor, and the next morning, I phoned Brad to ask if he “worked” on Saturdays. He came and met my family and gave some background on himself. Brad’s experience and knowledge in all areas related to buying and selling real estate is quite impressive. But his soft spoken and humble demeanor also stands out. He took charge of everything along the way, reassured me and made it all incredibly easy for me. I highly recommend Brad Kirwan. He is worth every penny he earned! Verified by RateMyAgent Gladys Jenne 17 July 2021 Curious about your home’s current market value? Call for a free Comparative Market Analysis. BRAD KIRWAN 863.280.0390 5% Commission Free Seller Home Warranty 29
GOLF LAMGA By Paul Fichtman The LAMGA 2022 season is off to a roaring start with very strong participation from its members. If you are a male member of the golf club and are not a LAMGA member, you are missing out on a lot of fun, good/fair competition and great camaraderie. The league plays every Wednesday morning throughout the year. The $25 annual membership fee is one of the best bargains in Lake Ashton. Registration forms are available in the Pro Shop. If you have not signed up yet, get to the Pro Shop as soon as possible so you do not miss out on any of the fun competitions planned for the year. The very popular Member/Guest Tournament, which occurs from March 10 — 12 is full with a field comprised of 60 teams. This year’s tournament promises to be one of the best yet including 45 holes of golf, a pre-tournament cocktail party, two breakfasts and three lunches provided by the Eagle’s Nest. Both the East and West Courses are in the best shape they have ever been, which is making play extremely enjoyable for all members. Congratulations to Ron Lavoie and his entire team from Indigo Sports for a great job of continually improving the condition of our courses. You can do your part by always taking the time to fix your divots and ball marks in addition to one or two others that you spot as you are playing your round. February’s schedule is comprised of: February 2nd – Individual Quota Points; February 9th – Pick Your Partner, 9 Hole Scramble plus 9 Hole Modified Alternating Shot; February 16th – Six, Six & Six; and February 23rd – Florida Scramble. LA NINERS By Diane Struble February is here, seems like we were just taking down decorations and finishing the holiday sweets. The Niners now have 87 members and are very pleased to welcome everyone! Ladies, be sure to arrive by 9 am each Tuesday so you can meet fellow golfers, find your partners, and have clubs loaded before the announcements. With these growing numbers, the pace of play is becoming very important. Keeping up the speed of play makes the game more enjoyable for all players. Each month a few tips will be listed. • Keep up with the group in front of you. • Do not spend more than the 3 minutes allowed for looking for a lost ball (or trying to fish it out of the water). During the January lunch, Trent gave a presentation complete with diagrams reviewing local rules and answering questions. A big thank you, as it was very informative and got everyone all on the same page on some issues. February 21 and 22 will be a ringer tournament with lunch on the 22nd. Start picking your partners and get ready for two days of fun! April is fast approaching and the Niners have 2 open positions available: Secretary and President. Both are two-year terms. The incoming President will hold the office of Vice President for one year
then move into the President position. The Secretary holds her position for two years. Anyone who is interested in some great fellowship, lots of laughs, and working for the betterment of the league, please talk to any board member. They will be glad to fill you in and answer any questions. Please contact Vice President Karen Ferrande at 207-451-0143 if you have any questions. LALGA By Lydia Fichtman BEAUTIFUL WEATHER + 18 HOLES OF GOLF = A HAPPY LALGA! Congratulations to both Team Blue and Team Red members who participated in the Solheim Cup on January 10 and 11. Both teams fought hard but ultimately Team Red prevailed by only four points. It was an incredible couple of days followed by a wonderful lunch at the Eagle’s Nest. Thank you to committee chair Cheryl Coveleskie, the members of the committee, the team captains, the LALGA members and the Eagles Nest staff for making the event so enjoyable. “Be My ‘Par’ tner” is the theme for this year’s Member-Member Tournament on February 7 & 8. The two-day event will include the ribbon game, a scramble and lunch at the Nest. Questions? Check with Patti Panone or Diane Depuis. The LALGA continued in January helping children with the We Care for Kids Hygiene Kits. A special thanks to Nancy Zografos and the committee for their commitment to the Lake Wales and Winter Haven homeless children. This month the Pink Ribbon committee would like to thank the following businesses for their donation in support of the past tournament. When in need of one of their products or services, please patronize them: Cici’s Pizza, Citizen’s Bank, Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Cleveland Heights Golf Course, Color Me Crazy, Cool Screens Florida, Cornerstone Hospice, Country Boy Pest Control, Crayola Experience, Crazy Fish, Crooked Bass, Cuttin’ Up Salon, Cypress Bowling Lanes, Cypress Cigar, 31 Cypress Woods Golf Club, D & D Painting, Dan’s Fan City, Davidson of Dundee, Deer Creek Golf & Country Club, Denise Tessier Law Firm, Detroit Tigers and Domino’s Pizza. The following four women are the top money winners to date for The Red Hoagland Challenge: Judy Mulhearn $45.25, Janice Fleming $43.50, Deb Louder $43.10 and Jan Kipp $42.60. Meet Donna Larsen From Ontario, Canada, Donna Larsen has been the Lake Ashton Club Champion not once, but twice! Donna and her husband of 45 years, Don, are snowbirds, and have three children and seven grandchildren. They met while working in a lumber yard and for the last 35 years are proud owners of their own lumber yard in Ontario, now managed by their son and sonin-law and where their teen grandsons work from time to time. She started playing golf at age 40 when her son wanted to play, so she and Don also learned. She purchased an inexpensive set of clubs and never looked back. She and Don played different courses in Canada and six years ago became members of their local golf club, Sawmill. Not only is Donna the Lake Ashton Club Champion but for the last four out of five years she has held the same title at the Sawmill Golf Course. This spring Donna was invited to Palm Springs, California, as the Lake Ashton 2021 Club Champion, for the 2021 PGA National Club Championship. The event was sponsored by the PGA, TaylorMade, Next Gen Golf and Jim Beam. She decided to throw her hat in the ring and participate. There were three age categories; under 50, 50-59 and 60+. Donna was in the latter. Of the 200 women playing in the event, 73 were in her category. She played the PGA West Stadium, the Indian Wells Celebrity and the Desert Willow Fire Cliff Golf Courses, all in Palm Springs. She tied for 24th place and said it was “an amazing experience.” She said she was “focused” during the event and believed it was a period of “self-growth” for her, and hopes to participate in the future. Way to go, Donna! The LALGA is so very proud of you!
CLUBS CAMERA CLUB By Larry Hillock The February 14 meeting will feature guest speaker Reinier Munguia who will share photographs from his recent photo safari to Kenya. Reinier has visited the group many times and has always given a very informative and entertaining presentation. On February 17 the club will enjoy a pontoon boat photo shoot on the Winter Haven Chain of Lakes aboard Living Waters Boat Cruises. All Lake Ashton residents who enjoy photography are encouraged to meet with in the Clubhouse Cinema on February 14 at 10:30 am. LA DEMOCRATIC CLUB By Shelley Miller The Lake Ashton Democratic Club is holding their February 2 monthly meeting via Zoom and in-person at the HFC. Social time with snacks runs 4 to 4:30 pm. Please bring your own beverage. Masks are recommended. The in-person General meeting and Zoom will start at 4:30. The February speaker is Paul Ritz, President of the Rainbow Ridge Polk County Democratic LGBTA Caucus, who will speak about current legislative issues in Florida of importance for the LGBTQ community. For more information, please e-mail lakeashtondemocraticclub@gmail.com. LA GARDEN CLUB By Lynn Davis The Lake Ashton Garden Club welcomed an abundance of talented people to the smashed, squeezed and pressed dried flower creations event on January 12. Members and non-members made bookmarks, arrangements to be framed and decoupaged candles. Members and non-members who attended will receive their personal laminated bookmarks. These will be handed out at the next meeting on February 9 at 10 am. at the Pavilion. A special thanks to Sil Wells for providing this service. Besides receiving the completed bookmarks, the February meeting will have another create project. It's an activity using succulents. The Garden Club Team will provide the necessary materials. Hoping people will join in the fun! Prior to the activity, there will be a discussion about the club's plantings around the Pavilion in the near future. A special thanks to the donations recently received. The Garden Club has no annual dues and donations are always welcomed. CREATIVE QUILTERS By Marsha Martin The Creative Quilters have been busy getting ready for the Quilters and Friends Quilt Show on February 16 from 1 to 4 pm. BOLLA, Sew What and Beading Buddies will also be showcasing their talents. Any Lake Ashton resident is able to show their quilted project at the show by simply registering it with Marsha Martin at 406-788-8087. Registration forms are available at either the Clubhouse or the HFC Act ivi t ies Desk. Registration ends February 11. There is also a king size quilt to be raffled off with proceeds going to BOLLA to purchase fabric. Tickets are available from JoAnne Malcolm 863-605-8871, at Monday Coffee or any Creative Quilter member.
GENEOLOGY CLUB By Jane Imparl The next Genealogy Club meeting will be February 9 from 2 to 3:30 pm in the HFC Craft Room. Come have some fun looking for your ancestors. Bring your laptops/tablets if you'd like. Call Jane Imparl at 815-545-6655 for more information. MAGIC YEARS CLUB By Annie Lutz Calling all Disney Fans! The Magic Years Club meets on the first Tuesday of the month — next meeting is February 1 at 7 pm in the HFC Poker Room. The Magic Years Club is open to all Lake Ashton residents who enjoy learning about and going to Disney World. Not all activities require park tickets. Monthly events are beginning to be scheduled, so please come to the meeting for more information. There are quite a few new members, and veteran members are always available to help with any questions you have. Events for the coming months will be discussed at the meeting, so bring a check or $10 per person to reserve your spot. Contact Annie Lutz or Joan Enslen if you have any questions. LA REPUBLICANS By Brenda Bush-Sayre The Lake Ashton Republican Club meeting will be held on Wednesday, February 23, at the Clubhouse. Sign-in and social time begins at 3:30 pm and the meeting will be from 4 to 6 pm. Looking forward to another great meeting! All Lake Ashton residents and their guests are welcome to join us. Point of contact is Brenda Bush-Sayre, bbs1954@icloud.com, 813-313-9911. SINGLES GROUP By Maureen Ziegler LA Singles is a social group that plans activities for single residents. The group meets monthly on the first Sunday of the month at 2 pm in the Clubhouse Ballroom. In January, the group of over 20 discussed several planned outings and get togethers. Plans were finalized for lunch at Jacaranda. If you would like to take part in activities with other singles, attend the meeting on February 6. Pictured of several members enjoying the Christmas Social hosted by Jim and Jack Schlude. LA TRAVELERS By Carolyn Bishop The Lake Ashton Travelers Potluck will be held February 26 from 5 to 7 pm at the HFC. Contact Carolyn Bishop for more information at 919-606-8844 or cbbishop61@gmail.com. The Club is currently collecting dues for the 2022 season. Payments can be made at the Tuesday RV Socials in the Clubhouse Ballroom from 3:30 to 5 pm. Regular membership is $20/per home or Associate membership is $10 (if you no longer own an RV). The LA Travelers is a chapter of FMCA and you must have a FMCA membership to join this chapter. GATHERING OF UPPER MIDWESTERN STATES By Cynthia Halde Please note that the February gathering has been canceled because a new facilitator was unable to be found. If anyone is interested in taking the organization of this group on, please contact Cynthia at at 231-343-1847 or haldehaven@gmail.com. MEXICAN TRAIN DOMINOES If you are interested in playing on Fridays at 6 pm in the Clubhouse Card Room, call Niru at 863-855-0075.
LA ROCKERS By Connie Strassberg either MJ Richards or Alice Mayer to let them know you are coming. LA Rockers are back from celebrating the holidays with friends and family and everyone is raring to go. The group’s mission is to spread happiness and joy throughout the Lake Ashton community, in through the belief that a message (painted on a rock) received at just the right moment can change someone's entire day, outlook, and life. Come to the HFC Community Center on alternate Wednesdays from 2 to 4 pm to meet a great group of people and learn to paint rocks. You don't have to be a talented painter — just pick up a small rock, paint a background, write a message, and hide it for someone else to find. It doesn't cost anything to try this since there is no need for first timers to make a huge investment for supplies. You can borrow what you need to start out. Please join the group at the next upcoming meetings that will be held February 9 and February 23 to see what we are about. To do so, join the Facebook group "LA Rockers" or contact LAVA AUXILIARY By Chris Graves Next Meeting: February 16 at 6:30 pm in the Clubhouse Ballroom near the stage. You are invited to come check the group out and help support veterans. Many fundraisers are sponsored throughout the year. Regretfully the upcoming Tag Sale fundraiser, originally scheduled for March 2022, has been canceled. However, at the January Meeting (30 people attended) two new committees were created. The first committee is the Brainstorm for Veterans Group (BFVG). The committee is preparing (brainstorming) new fundraising opportunities to benefit veterans. They are very excited to bring to new ideas to raise money for the coming year to the next meeting (so please do come). The second committee is researching various charities for the funds to be donated. ART’S GOLF CARS, INC. The Fun Starts Here! Go to artsgolfcars.com and click on ‘BUILD YOUR OWN’ button to built your own ONWARD! ★★★ WE CARRY A FULL LINE OF PARTS & ACCESSORIES ★★★ WE SERVICE ALL MAKES Owner Art Hobson CALL ART ANYTIME FOR APPOINTMENT ★ 863-439-5431 Free Pickup and Delivery for Lake Ashton Residents Only 29630 U.S. Hwy. 27 • Dundee, FL 33838 • artsgolfcars@aol.com FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1987 Sales and Service • 863-439-5431 Owner Art Hobson 0% Financing for 48 Months AUTHORIZED DEALER NEW 2022 CARS NEW 2022 CARS
LA SWIM CLUB By Sandy White your grandchildren be surprised if you were in a swim meet? For further info. or questions, contact the volunteer coach Sandy at sandyw1994@aol.com. Attention Calorie Counters, Waist Wat c he r s , a nd Fitness Junkies: Did you know that swimming is a good way to burn calories, keep lots of muscles in shape, and get fit? Do you know that Lake Ashton has a Swim Club which has reserved the pool 3 times a week so that residents can swim with others to burn calories, maintain weight, and stay or get fit? Most of those who come to the LASC workouts follow a provided suggested workout, while others do part of that or create their own. The idea is to be part of a group that does fitness swimming together. Swimming with others is safer, more fun, and more motivational. For those who want an external goal, it’s encouraged to aim for one or more Senior Games competitions, which offer swimming events similar to a typical high school swim meet. Wouldn't ATTENTION LAKE ASHTON LEADERSHIP Those in a leadership position for Lake Ashton clubs, groups or organizations can attend an informative session February 23 at 11 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom. Leaders will find out more about resources and support facilitated by staff. Topics include setting up electronic mail messages, planning events, clerical support, amenity policies, and more. The purpose of the session is to ensure organizational leaders know all of the available tools for a club’s continued success: promotion, media, support, guidelines, and more. While the session is designed for new leaders, anyone interested in the topic is welcome to attend. Please sign up in advance at the Clubhouse Activities Desk Information wall so adequate materials are prepared. $7,495 995
MIND&BODY LAKE ASHTON CONTINUING EDUCATION SERIES ( LACES) ONSPOT DERMATOLOGY On Spot Dermatology has been confirmed and will be arriving on February 21. OnSpot is a mobile, fullservice dermatology practice with 4 full examination rooms that will be located in the HFC parking lot. They provide skin cancer screenings, MOHS surgery, biopsies, liquid nitrogen and mole removals, cosmetic dermatology, and more. They accept all major insurance including Medicare and Medicaid. Keep a lookout for a blast that will be sent out with how to set up an appointment and much more. What is Florida-Friendly Landscaping™? Having a beautiful landscape while saving money and protecting our environment is possible. FloridaFriendly Landscaping™ uses nine easy to follow principles that can help Floridians do just that. There will be a presentation on February 18 at 1 pm in the Clubhouse Ballroom where you can learn tips on creating and maintaining a beautiful FloridaFriendly Landscape! Sign up for this free class at the Clubhouse Activities Desk. EXPRESS YOUR CREATIVITY! Explore the medium of water color with guest artist Freddie Combs. Join a day long workshops in water color techniques on February 18, March 18 at the HFC. For registration, supply list and information, contact the HFC Activities Desk (863- 595-1562 or kfunk@lakeashton2cdd.com). BOB ROSS OIL PAINTING Instructor: Kay Lenherr February 12 at 1 pm Clubhouse Craft Room Topic: Happiness is Sharing Cost $35 — payable at class 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. YOGA SHARE Participate in yoga to DVDs on Wednesdays at 8:45 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom. Sign up in advance at the Clubhouse Activities Desk. Questions? Call Sally Winfrey at 863.875.8134 or 316.516.2815. W.A.V. E . Instructor: Sue Fitzgerald, certified AFAA, ACE and ASFA (904.566.2846) Water Aerobics with Variety for Everyone is held Saturdays at 3 pm in the HFC Indoor pool. Water fitness programs provide low-impact activity that takes the pressure off your bones, joints and muscles. Water offers a natural resistance which can help strengthen your muscles. Aquatic exercise can have several health benefits such as improved heart health, reduced stress and improved muscular endurance and strength. And, it is fun! Ladies and gentlemen are welcome! There is no sign-up required and the class is free. Bring a friend and start the New Year’s off with a new activity. Class duration is 45 minutes. See you at the pool! CARING FOR THE CAREGIVERS February 18 is National Caregivers Day and caregivers of Lake Ashton are invited to join Cornerstone Hospice for a presentation discussing the impact of caregiving and identifying ways to facilitate healthy caregiving and resources. Snacks will be provided. The presentations will be February 18 at 9:30 am in the Clubhouse Cinema and February 22 at 11:30 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom. Please sign up at the Clubhouse Activities Desk.
(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
CALLING ALL TAPPERS! The Tap Jammers meet every Friday at 10 am in the HFC Sport Court. The goal of Tap Jammers is to review steps, refine technique, and share fun camaraderie. You don’t have to be an accomplished tap dancer to participate, but you must have basic knowledge of tap dancing. Please note: this is not for the beginner level tap dancer. For more information, please contact Tap Jammer Facilitator Julie Bombard at jbombard73@gmail.com. DANCE CLASSES Instructor: Cheryl Winchester Mondays 9 to 10 am in the HFC Basketball Court Promises to be filled with fun, no previous experience needed! Come when you can, relax and exercise while having fun! Hope you see you there! IMPROVER LINE DANCING Instructor: Ann Ludwick Thursdays at 1 pm in the HFC COUNTRY LINE DANCING Instructor: John Moore Beginners: Tuesdays at 7 pm, Thursdays at 9 am Intermediate: Tuesdays at 8:10 pm, Thursdays at 10:10 am Clubhouse Ballroom LA DANCE CLASSES: AMERICAN TANGO Instructor: Connie Wilkinson, certified DVIDA Instructor (863.875.6728) Mondays, February 7, 14, 21 and 28 from .4:30 to 5:30 pm in the HFC Community Center No partner needed! FREE!! Join for fun and exercise! WOMEN’ S BIBLE STUDY Wednesday mornings, 10 to 11:45 am at the HFC Community Center. All levels of Bible knowledge are welcomed to join in and study of the Book of Learn how to make a beautiful memory wire bracelet for only $2. The Art of Beading group will be teaching the class on February 14 at 11 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom. Be sure to sign up at the Activities Desk! RESIDENTIAL HORTICULTURE AT THE HFC Ever wonder which house plant is the best fit for you? Will the maintenance of it be too much for me? Come join us on February 22nd at 1:00 pm at the Health and Fitness Center to learn more about house plants and if they are a perfect fit for your lanai or screened-in porch. The seminar will be presented by UF/IFAS Extension Polk County Master Gardener Volunteer Anne Yasalonis. Exodus. For more information contact Louise Gilla at 863-514-4015. MEN’S BIBLE STUDY Meets Tuesdays with fellowship from 10 to 10:30 am with discussion from 10:30 to noon. The group is non-denominational, with a goal of helping people to grow in understanding the Bible. The group meets face-to-face at the HFC and also via Zoom. For more information contact Bob Ring at 734-674-7196, bobring42297@gmail.com, or Jim Brendemuehl, 815-343-5727, jcbrendem@gmail.com. VALENTINE ’ S MEMORY WIRE BRACELET
Quilters & Friends Quilt Show February 16 — 1 to 4 pm Clubhouse Ballroom FREE ADMISSION! On display by LA residents: Beading - Counted Cross Stitch - Crochet - Embroidery - Knitting - Quilts - & more! To be featured, submit an application to either Activities Desk by February 11 Purchase tickets to win a king-sized quilt, with proceeds benefitting Blankets of Love at Lake Ashton
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