L.A. TIMES Lake Ashton Community Newsletter July 2025 Simply the Best! Celebrate independence with Operation Show Your Colors & the annual 4th of July Parade! see p. 24 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
YOUR ON-SITE REAL ESTATE OFFICE NO CANCELLATION FEES for Listing Contracts HOME WARRANTY for your New Buyer - up to $650 MOVE-OUT CLEANING 863-318-9542 Lori R., Candra Terri & Sarah Not Pictured: Lori Tofanelli *On Medical Leave Lake Ashton Realty 4140 Ashton Club Drive Lake Wales, FL 33859 www.LakeAshtonRealty.com
NEWSLETTER STAFF Christine Wells Editor cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com 863.324.5457 Valerie LeBlanc Advertising Sales, Layout & Design valerie@lakeashtoncdd.com SUBMISSION GUIDELINES August Issue Deadline: July 14 • Articles can be submitted on behalf of Lake Ashton clubs/ groups/organizations to promote lifestyle enhancing, opportunities, and must be approved by the group leader prior to publication • Email articles to: valerie@lakeashtoncdd.com • 150 word limit. Articles will be edited for length, clarity, and to ensure compliance with districts’ media policies • Include your club contact and phone number • The writing style is third person — avoid using I, me, my, we, our, or personal pronouns Photo Specifications: • All photos must be high-res digital images in “jpeg” format and submitted via email or CD/flash drive • Space will generally allow only one photo per article • The designer and printer will make the final determination as to the print quality of photographs for publication THE LAKE ASHTON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT DOES NOT ENDORSE OR SUPPORT ANY PARTICULAR POLITICAL CANDIDATE, PARTY, MEASURE OR ISSUE, OR ANY PRODUCT OR SERVICE. JULY 2025 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! Please do not hesitate to contact us with any 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 - Ian Peterson, Head Golf Professional Kevin Baker, GM Eagles 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 LAIICDD Assistant Community Director: Krystle Funk kfunk@lakeashton2cdd.com HFC Activities Assistant: Louise Crespin lcrespin@lakeashton2cdd.com 863-325-0065 directors@lakeashtonhoa.org lakeashtonhoa.com 863-326-1032 ipeterson@lakeashtongc.com kevin.baker@troon.com 863-326-1085 sgoodwin@lakeashtongc.com 863.326.1304 Mon — Fri jsullivan@lakeashtonstorage.com 8 am to 4 pm 863-662-3300 charmcityfl@gmail.com 863-358-0809 kshipley@empowerme.com ___________________________________________________________________________________________ In case of emergency, dial 911! Lake Wales Police: 863-678-4223 Winter Haven Police: 863-291-5858 Polk County Sheriff: 863-298-6200 3 Thompson Nursery Rd. (LW) Gate House Security: 863-324-7290 County Road 653 (WH) Gate House Security: 863-318-0237
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. JULY 7 • Birthdays and Anniversaries • Featured Speaker: Dr. Henne, Relevé Sports Medicine • Featured Vendors:Christine Graves Insurance, ComForCare JULY 14 • Bite Me Monday — Donations of pet food and/or supplies for the Humane Society of Polk County • Featured Speaker: AdventHealth • Featured Vendors: Edward Jones - Matt Simpson, Crosby & Associates, Inc JULY 21 - NO MONDAY COFFEE - LACDD MEETING • Peanut Butter Monday - Non-perishable food donations will go to the Lake Wales Care Center to distribute to families in need JULY 28 • Featured Speaker: Lake Wales Main Street • Featured Vendors: AdventHealth, Encompass Health and Rehabilitation, Iceberg Home Services KNIFE & SCISSORS SHARPENING The Lake Ashton Woodworkers continue to sharpen knives and scissors as a fundraiser. Contact Fred or Shelba Powell if you are in need of their services at 863-280-6546. LAKE ASHTON (LW) CDD Monday, July 21 9 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom CIT Y COMMISSION MEETINGS LW: 1st & 3rd Tuesdays at 6 pm, Commission Chambers, Municipal Administration Bldg., 201 W. Central Ave., Lake Wales WH: 2nd & 4th Mondays at 6:30 pm, John Fuller Auditorium in City Hall, 451 3rd St. NW, Winter Haven POLK COUNT Y BOCC MEETINGS 1st & 3rd Tues. , 9 am, Board Room, 330 W. Church St., Bartow IN THIS ISSUE NEWS 6 LA LOOKS 16 SAFETY 20 MOVIES 22 EVENTS 24 CLUBS 28 MIND & BODY 34 GOLF 36 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETINGS LAKE ASHTON II (WH) CDD Thursday, July 17 9 am at the Health & Fitness Center
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HOURS OF OPERATION CLUBHOUSE: 6 am – 10 pm daily CLUBHOUSE OFFICES: 9 am – 5 pm Mon. - Fri. HEALTH & FITNESS CENTER: 5:30 am – 10 pm daily HFC OFFICES & ACTIVITIES DESK: 8 am – 4 pm Monday through Friday GUEST REGISTRATION REMINDERS All guests, regardless of age, must register and sign a waiver of liability prior to using the Amenity Facilities. The resident inviting the guest must be present upon registration, unless other arrangements have been made with staff. Guest Amenity Access Cards must be turned into the Clubhouse Office upon Guest's departure or there is a charge of $40 per Amenity Access Card charged to the Homeowner. A drop off box is installed in the Clubhouse Lobby, just outside of the Clubhouse Office. BE INFORMED PRODUCE Every Wednesday from 10 am – 2 pm in the Clubhouse West Parking Lot BAXTER’ S QUAL ITY MEATS Get fresh poultry, fish, and beef in the Clubhouse West parking lot Wednesdays from 9:30 am to Noon BOOKMOBILE Second & fourth Wednesdays, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm (closed for lunch 12:30 to 1:15) in the Clubhouse West Parking Lot. Polk County library card holders can check out and return books, movies, & more! HOLIDAY OFFICE HOURS & TRASH PICKUP The Clubhouse and HFC offices will be closed on July 4 in observance of Independence Day. Trash, recycling and yard waste pickup for Lake Wales residents will occur on Saturday, July 5. Winter Haven residents will have trash, recycling and yard waste pickup on July 7, as scheduled. Have a safe and happy Independence Day! 6 Residents are encouraged to attend LACDD (Lake Wales) and LAIICDD (Winter Haven) Board of Supervisor meetings to ensure they are staying up to date with current issues and projects throughout the community. If you are unable to attend in person a link to attend via Zoom is sent out a week prior to the meeting. If you are unable to attend, please be sure to check out http://www.lakeashtoncdd.com (Lake Wales) and http://www.lakeashton2cdd.org (Winter Haven) to find agenda packets and approved minutes from previous meetings. On July 21, LACDD (Lake Wales) will be adopting the budget for fiscal year (FY) 2026. There is no proposed increase to the assessment for Lake Wales residents for FY 2026. On August 21, LAIICDD (Winter Haven) will be adopting the budget for fiscal year (FY) 2026. There is no proposed increase to the assessment for Winter Haven residents for FY 2026. SAFEGUARD STORM DRAINS Residents and lawn services are reminded to never place loose vegetation on top of storm drains. It can fall or blow into the storm drain and clog the stormwater system.
T h i s 4 o f J u l y c e l e b r a t e f r e e d om - a n d p r o t e c t y o u r s f o r g e n e r a t i o n s t o c ome . t h We a v e r L o v e l e s s L aw i s h e r e f o r y o u r E s t a t e P l a nn i ng , P r o b a t e & E l d e r L aw n e e d s . www.We L o v e L aw. c om 2 4 0 E . Pa r k A v e . 8 6 3 . 6 7 6 . 6 0 0 0 8 6 3 . 6 7 6 . 6 0 0 0 www.We L o v e L aw. c om 2 4 0 E . Pa r k A v e . 7
LACDD NEWS By Christine Wells, LA (LW) CDD Community Director (cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com) Long days, short nights, afternoon thunderstorms, and flowers blooming bright … summer is officially here! Many residents are taking this time to escape the Florida heat and humidity while others are enjoying guests at Lake Ashton. It is great to see residents proudly showing their visitors the beautiful amenities and even more enjoyable to meet their friends and family. Be sure to register guests at the Health and Fitness Center (HFC) or Clubhouse before taking them to the amenities. Please remember guest amenity access cards must be returned to the Clubhouse Lobby (white box near the Clubhouse Office) upon guest departure. There is a $40 charge for all passes that are not returned. Camp Lake Ashton is coming to an end with the Hoedown Throwdown on July 3. We hope everyone can attend to celebrate summer, Lake Ashton style. On June 23, LACDD (Lake Wales) Board of Supervisors met to attend to community matters. The Engineer gave an update on current projects, including a pond erosion project on hole number 4 of the East Golf Course that is still under construction. Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) pond inspections were completed and the Engineer will be getting quotes to repair a flume on pond number 18, behind homes on Ashton Club Drive. The Board approved a not to exceed amount of $9,525 to mark conservation areas behind homes on Aberdeen Lane, Berwick Drive, Dunmore Drive, Ashton Club Drive, and Waterford Drive. Work on Aberdeen Lane will commence on July 2. Discussion regarding the development of a Joint Strategic Plan will be addressed at the July LACDD meeting and Joint Meeting on August 18. Supervisors approved to retain Gray Robinson to represent the District for the road widening project on Thompson Nursery Road. A quote to replace the current weight bench in the Fitness Center with a Smith machine was approved. The current bench and rack was surplussed and will be donated. A quote to replace the Card Room air conditioner was approved. The Ballroom renovation is underway and by publication painting will be completed. The current drapes and rods were surplussed as well. Residents that are affiliated with a charitable entity that could use these items should reach out to cwells@lakeashtoncdd.come. A full wrap up report of the actions taken at this meeting was sent out after the meeting. 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 8 Residents are encouraged to attend Board of Supervisor's meetings to gain first hand information regarding matters that affect the community. Any comments on posted agenda items can be discussed at the beginning of the meeting and a "Request to Speak" form should be completed. If residents have a point of discussion regarding an item not on the agenda there is a time at the end of the meeting for those comments. At the end of the meeting residents can talk about any subject.
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LAIICDD NEWS By Karen Van Kirk, LAIICDD Community Director (kvankirk@lakeashton2cdd.com) 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 photo: Dennis Krupinski Bob Zelazny, Vice Chairman Golf Course, Pro Shop, Eagles Nest, Facilities and Field Operation, Transportation System Office Hours: Mondays 1 to 3 pm 863.325.8098, bzelazny@lakeashton2cdd.com Bill Martin, Assistant Secretary Public Works & Infrastructure, Including Roadways Office Hours: Mondays from 10 to 11 am bmartin@lakeashton2cdd.com Duff Hill, Assistant Secretary Special Projects, Landscaping Area, Pet Play Parks Office Hours: Wednesdays from 11 am to 12 pm dhill@lakeashton2cdd.com Roy Aull, Assistant Secretary Facilities/Amenity Management Office Hours: Friday 9 to 10:30 am 973-670-2709, raull@lakeashton2cdd.com July 4th is by far one of America’s most celebrated holidays, and for some it means heading to the beach, or the mountains while others may opt to include a trip to their favorite amusement park or simply have a backyard barbecue. We are however reminded of the real reason to celebrate Independence Day, as the birth of America. Across the United States small cities to large metropolitan areas also celebrate with parades, festivals, and concerts with most ending in a festive display of fireworks, a favorite for children and adults alike. If you are among those who prefer to stay at home, there are plenty of activities taking place in both Lake Wales and Winter Haven. To find out about activities and events in your neighborhood visit https://polkcountymoms.com/fourth-of-julyevents-in-and-around-polk-county-florida/. Here at Lake Ashton the Clubhouse and the HFC are set to kick off the month of July with Camp Lake Ashton. Residents can participate in a Co-Ed Corn Hole Tournament at the HFC on July 1 or test your ping pong skills at the HFC’s Ping Pong Tournament on July 2. You can also join in on the fun at Lorrie’s line dance class at the HFC on July 3rd. For details on Camp Lake Ashton events, please visit the activities desk at the Clubhouse and the HFC. We wish our Lake Ashton residents a memorable, safe, and fun 4th of July. The HFC continues with fun activities, beginning on July 11 with the BeatlesBeat tribute band playing at the HFC. This wellknown band has played throughout the U.S. in popular venues including Disney’s Epcot, then Carlos and Company, a popular duo who have performed at Lake Ashton on many occasions will be at the HFC on July 25. Watch for emails or stop by the HFC activities desk with all the details on these two events. A big thank you to those LA residents who have registered their golf carts and received their new golf cart stickers (for accountability, safety, and visibility). You may register your golf cart, at the HFC, Monday through Friday from 10 am to 3 pm. The deadline to do so is July 31. 10
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JOINT AMENI TY FACI L I T I ES POL ICI ES HIGHLIGHT Please note this is an excerpt from the Joint Amenity Facilities Policies. The full policy can be found on lakeashtoncdd.com and lakeashton2cdd.org. Questions regarding these policies can be directed to Christine Wells, LA (LW) CDD Community Director or Karen Van Kirk, LA (WH) CDD Community Director. Contact information can be found on page 3. Please note there have been reports of groups telling new players that they cannot join the Club or informing them that the Club activity is private. Per the policies below, all Club activities must be available to all Patrons. Any resident that has an issue with this should report it to Christine Wells or Karen Van Kirk. Please note, violations of any of the Joint Amenity Facilities Policies by any Club may result in the loss of that Club’s privileges within the Amenity Facilities. These policies are in place to ensure every resident has equal access to activities occurring at the amenity facilities. Please be welcoming to new residents and residents that may be trying to become more active in the community. IX. CLUBS, GROUPS, AND ORGANIZATIONS Any Club, Group or Organization (collectively, “Clubs”) desiring to utilize the Amenity Facilities or District Media 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) Patrons. 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 Patrons and not to effectuate sales of products or services. 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. 12 4. Club membership and Club activities must be available to all Patrons. Patrons will be given priority to attend any club activity or event. 5. Registered guests may be invited to attend if space permits. The Amenity Manager has the right to ask registered Guests and other Non-Residents to leave if necessary to accommodate Patrons. 6. Club facilitators are responsible for ensuring all participants of any club, group, or organization events are residents of Lake Ashton or in possession of a valid Facilities Guest Pass. If unauthorized participants try and gain access to District amenities, it is the responsibility of the facilitator to contact Staff and have the unauthorized participants removed from District amenities. 7. Criteria for Club membership should be governed by the individual club’s Bylaws and must comply with the adopted Joint Amenity Facilities Policies. Violations of any of the Joint Amenity Facilities Policies by any Club may result in the loss of that Club’s privileges within the Amenity Facilities. AVOID A GATE STRIKE When entering Lake Ashton via the Thompson Nursery Road gate please stop just before the stop sign and wait until the vehicle in front of you has gone under the gate before proceeding forward. Please ensure the gate is going in the downward direction before proceeding from the stop sign to ensure the reader has read your RFID tag. If you get too close to the vehicle in front of you it is possible the reader will not read your tag and start going down before you are able to cross. Waiting at the stop sign for the car in front to proceed will eliminate the need to back up so the reader can read your tag. Residents who hit the gate are charged the full replacement value of the gate arm which is $975 at this time. Please take your time entering the community to avoid this charge.
OUTDOOR POOL REMINDERS • No glass should be brought into the fenced area • Food and beverages, including water, can only be consumed outside of the 4 foot permeter surrounding the pool. Please keep food and beverages at the tables and loungers surrounding the pool. • No personal bluetooth speakers can be used to play music. All devices playing music should be equipped with headphones. • All pool gates should be closed after going through. Under no circumstance should gates be propped open. • Residents should not attempt to bypass the amenity access card reader to enter the pool. Residents, please be tolerant of extra activity at the pool and other amenities during the summer months. Those hosting family should remind them to be considerate of residents in this 55 and older community. It is helpful, but not required, if a resident accompanies their guests at any of the amenities. Please shower before entering Lake Ashton pools or spas. Only those aged 13 years and older should enjoy the spas. Please remember that Charm City at Lake Ashton holds the liquor license to serve and sell alcoholic beverages at the Clubhouse, which means no outside alcoholic beverages may be brought into the Clubhouse restaurant, restaurant outside patio, pool area, Bocce ball courts, shuffleboard courts, or Pet Play Park. 13
RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT By Marianne Zak Joe Sawmiller, originally from Clay, New York near Syracuse, moved to Lake Ashton with his wife Toni in November 2004. A guitarist since age 16, Joe joined a local band while still in high school. He began dating Toni at 17, and they married four years later—on his birthday, June 25, 1966—so he’d never forget their anniversary! Together they raised three children and now enjoy five grandchildren. At 19, Joe hit the road with his first band, The Pastels, followed by The Vikings, and eventually Don Barber and the Dukes. They performed songs like “The Waddle,” “What’s Your Name,” and “Henrietta,” all still searchable on YouTube. Joe has shared the stage with acts like The Searchers, Little Eva, The Angels, and Lou Christie. Once married, Joe left the road but not music, working weekdays at Nine Mile Point Nuclear Station while playing weekends locally. He performed for over 20 years with The Viceroys, drawing crowds of 5,000 at Syracuse’s “Party in the Plaza.” A lifelong Elvis fan, Joe’s favorite genre is rock and roll. His Elvis performances—costume and all—are a hit at Lake Ashton events. One of his highlights was visiting Graceland in Memphis. Joe retired from his job, but not from performing. In 2012, he co-founded Lake Ashton’s beloved Perfect Pitch Band, serving as lead male vocalist and guitarist until 2020. The band was even featured on CNN’s United Shades of America with W. Kamau Bell. Joe performed in the community Talent Show for 14 years, ran spotlight for the Entertainment Series for 12 years, and has volunteered at Bingo since 2007. After the sudden passing of Bingo leader John DeWinkler in December 2024, Joe quickly stepped up to lead, ensuring its smooth return within two weeks. He arrives early every Monday and handles operations all week long. Joe also enjoys cruising, karaoke, and traveling north each summer to visit family, reunite with The 14 Viceroys, and help his daughter run her girls’ softball camp. If you see Joe out walking his dog Lexi, ask him to share some of his funny band stories! …AND BEAR, OH MY! By David Fix Earlier this year, I set out to fulfill a 50-year-old Bucket List dream: thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail. It started off great—until an injury in March forced me off the trail. A few weeks later, I returned with a new plan: section hiking the trail over three years. This year, I covered over 650 miles—not bad for being 66! In June, I aimed to finish the 74 miles through the Smoky Mountains. Just before starting, I got an email from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy listing shelter closures due to “aggressive bear activity.” So, I adjusted my route to avoid the problem spots. On my second day in the Smokies, after hiking 13.5 miles, I arrived at a shelter—alone. Luckily, two hikers from Michigan, Robert and James, showed up later. After some trail talk, we all dozed off to rest. At 6:15 p.m., I woke to a noise and realized a bear was inside the shelter, grabbing James’ backpack, just inches from where they were sleeping. I shouted, sounded my bear horn, and the bear bolted … with the pack. Robert and James rushed after the bear, armed with my spray, horn, and a hunting knife. They came back emptyhanded and understandably upset. About an hour later, the bear came back—while I was alone, with no horn or spray. I yelled, banged my poles, and flashed a strobe light. The bear didn’t budge. When Robert and James returned, the three of us tried everything. Still, the bear circled the shelter, creeping closer from either side. Finally, we hit it with bear spray to the face, and it slowly wandered off. But it was a restless night, to say the least. James and Robert ended their hike early—losing $1,500 worth of gear. After reading a sign that “70% of fatal bear attacks in the Smokies involve solo hikers,” I took the hint and ended my section hike for the year. Next year, I hope to continue. For now, I’m back in Lake Ashton, resting and planning the next leg of this wild adventure.
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L.A. LOOKS Wildlife Corner Photo & Article By Barbara Ann Comer Hooded Mergansers are a fairly common winter resident of Lake Ashton. Small flocks can be seen fishing on the retention ponds of the West Course. They dive for and enjoy the fish, crustaceans and aquatic insects the retention ponds have to offer. The male is breathtaking in its garb that rivals even the Wood Duck. With a large white fan-shaped head patch it is a species that does not go unnoticed. The drake raises its crest when it wants to impress the ladies. The females and juveniles sport the same shape and are brownish overall. These are diving ducks in the Merganser family. All Mergansers are diving ducks that have long, thin, serrated bills to help them catch their prey. North America has three Merganser species and Lake Ashton is fortunate to have the smallest and perhaps most beautiful of these three, the Hoodies at Lake Ashton each winter. LA (LW) HOA Summer is upon us in Lake Ashton! While many residents are away visiting family and other various adventures, please check with your lawn care provider to make sure your yard is tidy, plantings around your home are still trimmed, and landscape beds are weeded. This is also a good time to refresh mulch if needed. Last month compliance reminded residents about weeds in driveways. We will continue to monitor driveways and issue courtesy notices if warranted. Evaluate the paint on your home to see if there is significant fading or staining. You do not need HOA permission for power washing but if you plan to have your home repainted, remember to file an ARC 16 LA (LW) COMPLIANCE & ARC The Lake Ashton Compliance and Architectural Review Committees hold regular office hours on the third Wednesday of each month at 3:30 pm in the Clubhouse Card Room. This is a great opportunity for residents to come and discuss any questions or concerns you might have related to ARC requests or Compliance issues. Whether you have general questions or simply want to meet our teams, we are here to help. Both Committees are in need of additional members. Please consider volunteering to assist your community and fellow residents. request. Courtesy notices have been sent to homeowners about service doors not being painted the same color as the main house color. Several residents have submitted ARC requests for painting the doors but many have not. Violation notices will be going out soon. Notices will now be sent from our new management company, Stambaugh. Contacts: Karl Schroeder, Licensed CAM, and Tanisha Schroeder, Account Manager 500 Orchid Springs Drive, Winter Haven, FL 33884 863-324-5100, https://www.stambaughinc.com Manager Email: gm@stambaughinc.com Accounting Email: admin@stambaughinc.com As HOA directors travel through the community, it is very gratifying to see the care and pride homeowners have in their homes! We need help with the HOA’s mission to keep LA beautiful. Please consider volunteering! We are looking for someone to fill one vacancy on the board and we always need volunteers to help with compliance and ARC. LA HOA Board Members • John Donahue, President and ARC Director president@lakeashtonhoa.org • Dee Mayne, Secretary & Compliance Director sec2@lakeashtonhoa.org • Marti Schmidt, Treasurer treasurer@lakeashtonhoa.org • Glen Hart, Director vp2@lakeashtonhoa.org • ARC: ARC@lakeashtonHOA.org • Compliance: compliance@lakeashtonHOA.org
LA II (WH) HOA NEWS By Connie Strassberg, Treasurer "Summertime, and the living is easy!” But it’s also hurricane season, so now is the time to take steps to protect yourself, your home, and your family. Let’s do our part to safeguard our little piece of paradise. The HOA maintains five flyer slots at the top of the board at the HFC. These currently contain Email Contact Authorization forms, Age Verification forms, and other important community information. To qualify as an age-restricted 55+ community in Florida, we must comply with the Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA), which requires age verification every two years. Every household in Lake Ashton II received an Age Verification form from our management company, Stambaugh. Many residents have already returned theirs but we still need more to meet the requirement. If you need another form, you can pick one up from the flyer slot at the HFC. Complete the form and return it to Stambaugh as soon as possible, by mail or by placing it in the white HOA mailbox at the HFC. Your participation is essential to help us maintain our 55+ designation. To receive official email notifications from the LA2 HOA, you must complete and submit an Email Authorization Form. Due to privacy laws, we cannot contact you by email without it. You can pick up a form from the HFC flyer slot, fill it out, and return it either by mail or by placing it in the white HOA mailbox. For questions, contact Stambaugh at 863- 324-5100. Visit https:// stambaugh.cincwebaxis.com to find announcements, documents, the resident directory, a community calendar, and online payment options. First-time users can click “REGISTER” in the top right corner to sign up. This is your website—please use it! The LA2 HOA Board of Directors meets on the third Tuesday of each month at the HFC. Due to summer break, the next meeting will be in August. The meeting time and agenda will be emailed to all who have opted in for email communications. The Architectural Review Committee (ARC), a branch of the HOA, meets on the second and fourth Mondays of each month at 1 pm at the HFC. Check with the front desk for the exact location. To contact the ARC, visit arctracker.com and select Lake Ashton 2 as the area. 17 LA II (WH) HOA Board Members : • President Bill Testa, PresidentLA2HOA@gmail.com • VP- ARC Mike Brennan, VPArcLA2HOA@gmail.com • Secretary Joe Ellwanger, SecretaryLA2HOA@gmail.com • Treasurer Connie Strassberg, TreasurerLA2HOA@gmail.com • Asst Treasurer Ray Rudy, VPTreasurerLA2HOA@gmail.com PREPARE FOR STORM SEASON Ensure trees on your property are trimmed to avoid potential projectiles during a storm. Residents noticing trimming needed in Lake Wales conservation areas should email Matt at mfisher@lakeashtoncdd.com. LACDD is the only entity that can perform maintenance in these areas. Please include your name, phone number, address, and a small description of the area in question. Staff will conduct a site visit and determine what steps need to be taken.
ATTENTION LA I I (WH ) RESIDENTS! The LA II HOA ARC is excited to announce a contest where you can win a $50 Charm City gift card just by answering some questions correctly about the LA II HOA/ARC Rules and Guidelines! Just print and fill out the questionnaire which can be found online at https://www.lakeashtonliving.com and drop it in the ARC Complaint Box in the HFC by July 31. You can also email a completed copy to any of the following ARC Members and we’ll enter all correct questionnaires in the drawing for you. • A3lawharc2@gmail.com – Joanne ARC Rep Area 3 and Chairman • A2lawharc2@gmail.com – Kevin ARC Rep Area 2 and CoChairman • A4lawharc2@gmail.com – Stephanie ARC Rep Area 9 and Secretary All questionnaires that are 100% correct will be entered to win the $50 Charm City gift card. You must be a Lake Ashton II (Winter Haven) resident, all questions must be answered correctly, only 1 entry per resident, and entries must be received by midnight July 31, 2025. UMBRELLA REMINDER Please put umbrellas down after use when visiting the Pool, Bocce Courts, or Pet Play Parks. Leaving them up can potentially cause them to be damaged during rain events that are prevalent during this time of year. Replacements cost the District approximately $70/umbrella. FISH TALES Left: Marianne Zak’s grandson Austin Furgala (15) with a 1 lb 3 oz, 8-incher, caught in pond behind gazebo sales office Right: David Marsh, with a 5 lb. largemouth bass, caught in East GC Hole 10 WWW.BROCKSWINDOWCLEANING.COM 18
NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH SAFETY COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM Helping to Make a Difference in Times of Crisis and Community Need When disaster strikes, communities often need all the help they can get. While first responders like police, fire and medical professionals are critical, they can't always be everywhere at once. That's where a Citizen Emergency Response Team or “CERT” comes in. Volunteering for our Lake Ashton CERT is a powerful way to make a direct impact in our community during emergencies, and it's easier than you might think to join. You may have seen our members assisting with charitable and community events. We’re the folks wearing the green hard hats and reflective vests. But we’re also trained by Polk County Fire Rescue to assist in emergency situations when professional help is delayed or unavailable. Training is free, very informative and actually fun to participate in. Our team meets monthly to go over preparations and we practice periodically so we’re ready to support first responders, manage basic medical needs, perform search and rescue operations, and provide aid in evacuation efforts. Our CERT team is even certified as a Point of Distribution for dispensing supplies and vaccinations from governmental agencies in times of emergency. While CERT members are not trained to replace first responders, we do play a crucial role in supporting them. By helping in non-medical roles or with basic needs, CERT volunteers allow professional responders to focus on more critical tasks. Joining our team is as simple as visiting our website at https://sites.google.com/view/lake-ashton-cert or scan this QR code with your cell phone camera. We hope you’ll consider joining our team! 20 (NW) CORNER By Fay Wood, NW Chief As summer heats up, so does criminal activity. Law enforcement agencies and the National Crime Prevention Institute report that crime rates typically rise in warmer months, often due to stress and increased opportunities. Regardless of the cause, it's vital to take steps to protect your home and loved ones. Here are four essential summer safety tips: 1. Secure your windows. Open windows for a breeze, but stay safe. Install window guards or stops to prevent them from being opened too far, which also protects children. Add window sensors that alert you to unexpected openings. Most burglars seek the easiest access, so an unlocked or unmonitored window is a prime target. 2. Know who is at the door. Summer means more foot traffic: neighbors, contractors, and potentially criminals. Some burglars ring the doorbell to see if anyone’s home. If you answer and appear alone, they might attempt to force entry. A video doorbell lets you communicate without opening the door and see who’s there. Don’t open up for unexpected strangers. If they refuse to leave, call the police. 3. Make your house a difficult target. Criminals are more likely to strike when no one’s home. Deter them by: • Locking gates and storing tools and ladders out of sight. • Installing motion sensor lights to spotlight intruders. • Trimming bushes and trees to maintain clear sightlines to entrances. 4. Keep an eye on your home when you're out. Enjoy summer events without worry. Use indoor/outdoor security cameras connected to a mobile app. These can activate with motion or sensor triggers and send alerts, letting you monitor your property in real time, even from afar. Stay vigilant. Summer should be a season of relaxation. Take proactive steps to secure your home, monitor activity, and report any suspicious behavior. REMEMBER: As a member of Lake Ashton Neighborhood Watch—if you see something, say something. Report it immediately to law enforcement. .
SIGN UP FOR ALERT POLK Prepare yourself this hurricane season by signing up to receive emergency notifications from Alert Polk, the system Polk County uses to inform residents about public safety threats and concerns. During situations which may affect the health, safety and welfare of Polk’s residents, official messages are sent to telephone numbers and email addresses within the affected geographic area. Emergency notifications include: • Tornadoes/severe weather • Mandatory evacuations • Boil water notifications • Gas leaks • Sexual predator relocation notices • Critical law enforcement notifications • Hurricanes & recovery information More information: polk-county.net/EM, or call the Emergency Management division at (863) 298-7000. DRIVER SAFETY REMINDER All vehicles, including golf carts, must obey all stop signs and the 20 mph speed limit throughout Lake Ashton. Drivers, please keep an eye out for pedestrians at all times. Obeying the posted speed limit and traffic signs can help avert a potential tragedy. Anyone operating a golf cart on public roads or streets under 18 years of age must possess a valid learner’s permit or driver’s license. Anyone older than 18 must carry a state-issued ID. WATCH FOR ALL IGATORS Female alligators build a mound nest of soil, vegetation, or debris and deposit an average of 32 to 46 eggs in late June or early July. Incubation requires approximately 63-68 days, and hatching occurs from mid-August through early September. Alligators and crocodiles are an important part of Florida's heritage and play a valuable role in the ecosystems where they live. Those who live near lakes and ponds should expect to see alligators from time-to-time but they should never be fed or approached. People concerned about an alligator should call the Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWCGATOR (866-392-4286). 21
MOVI ES JULY 15 — 17 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM LAST BREATH CLOSED CAPTIONING: 11 AM DAILY AND ALL TUESDAY SHOWINGS CINEMA CAPACITY: 55 JULY 1 — 3 (NO 7 PM SHOWING JULY 3) 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM THE ACCOUNTANT 2 2025 | R | 2H 5MIN (Strong Violence | Language) Christian Wolff (Ben Affleck) has a talent for solving complex problems. When an old acquaintance is murdered, leaving behind a cryptic message to "find the accountant," Wolff is compelled to solve the case. Realizing more extreme measures are necessary, Wolff recruits his estranged and highly lethal brother, Brax (Jon Bernthal), to help. In partnership with U.S. Treasury Deputy Director Marybeth Medina (Cynthia Addai-Robinson), they uncover a deadly conspiracy, becoming targets of a ruthless network of killers who will stop at nothing to keep their secrets buried. JULY 8 — 9 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM (NO MOVIES JULY 10) ON BECOMING A GUINEA FOWL 2025 | PG-13 | 1H 35MIN (Thematic Material | Sexual Abuse | Suggestive References | Some Drug Use) On an empty road in the middle of the night, Shula stumbles across the body of her uncle. As funeral proceedings begin around them, she and her cousins bring to light the buried secrets of their middle-class Zambian family, in filmmaker Rungano Nyoni's surreal and vibrant reckoning with the lies we tell ourselves. 2025 | PG-13 | 1H 33MIN (Brief Strong Language) A heartpounding film that follows seasoned deep-sea divers as they battle the raging elements to rescue their crewmate trapped hundreds of feet below the ocean's surface. Based on a true story, LAST BREATH is an electrifying story about teamwork, resilience, and a race against time to do the impossible. Stars Woody Harrellson, Simu Liu, Finn Cole. JULY 22 — 24 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM BLACK BAG 2025 | R | 1H 40MIN A gripping spy drama about legendary intelligence agents George Woodhouse (Michael Fassbender) and his beloved wife Kathryn (Cate Blanchett). When she is suspected of betraying the nation, George faces the ultimate test – loyalty to his marriage or his country. JULY 29 — 31 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM HAPPY GILMORE 2 2025 | PG-13 | 1H 40MIN Happy Gilmore makes a big splash when he returns to the golf course. 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 22
FEATURE FILM FRIDAYS — CLASSIC AND SPECIAL INTEREST FILMS 11 AM SHOWTIME IS CLOSED CAPTIONED JULY 4 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 Broadway styles, filmed from the Richard Rogers Theater in New York. JULY 11 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM JAWS 1975 | PG | 2H 5MIN When a young woman is killed by a shark near the New England tourist town of Amity Island, police chief Martin Brody (Roy Scheider) wants to close the beaches, but mayor Larry Vaughn (Murray Hamilton) overrules him, fearing that the loss of tourist revenue will cripple the town. Ichthyologist Matt Hooper (Richard Dreyfuss) and grizzled ship captain Quint (Robert Shaw) offer to help Brody capture the killer beast, and the trio engage in an epic battle of man vs. nature. JULY 18 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM MY MOM JAYNE 2025 | NR | 1H 45MIN Mariska Hargitay was three years old when her mother, Jayne Mansfield, tragically died in a car accident at the age of 34. The film follows Mariska as she seeks to know, understand, and embrace her mother for the first time. Through intimate interviews and a collection of never-before-seen photos and home movies, she grapples with her mother's public and private legacy. JULY 25 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM BECOMING LED ZEPPELIN 2025 | PG-13 | 2H 2MIN Interviews, performances and never-before-seen footage provide insight into the origins of Led Zeppelin and their meteoric rise to musical stardom. 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.
EVENTS TRI-SERVICE BIRTHDAY BALL By Cal Posner I’ve been told by many attendees at the Tri-service 250th Birthday Ball on June 14, that they had a wonderful time. They said the food was excellent, the ceremonial part of the evening was informative and they enjoyed the camaraderie created by the event. Some liked my jokes; others liked the cupcakes. Everyone liked the music provided by DJ Wayne. There was even a guest appearance by George Washington! If you left your program at the Ball, scan this QR code to download your photos and the video free of charge. If a picture is worth 1,000 words then I don’t need to say anymore. Enjoy the pictures. OPERATION LAKE ASHTON SHOW OUR COLORS & THE 4TH OF JULY PARADE Every year, the Lake Ashton Veterans Association (LAVA) places American Flags at the entrances and roads leading into the community on the 4th of July. As such, we would like to invite and challenge the entire community to line your property this 4th of July with U.S. flags! LAVA is also hosting the annual 4th of July parade! The parade will be marshaled at the HFC at 8:30 am, with stepoff at 9. Golf carts, bicycles, and motor vehicles are all welcome. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places, with winners announced via email blast the following Monday. The parade route is shown. Prior registration is not required. As always, God bless our troops, and God Bless America! LAPAC VOLUNTEERS NEEDED By Diane Banti It’s that time of year to scare up some fun for Lake Ashton! Save the dates of October 30 and 31! LAPAC is reaching out to all the witches and warlocks to scare up some fun for the Haunted House this year. The theme this year is The Wicked Tales of Lake Ashton! If you would like to volunteer for this event, there will be an informational meeting on July 7 at 10:30 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom after Monday Coffee. Volunteers are needed for characters, dancers, and ushers. Also, if you don’t want to be public facing we also could use crafters, painters, and builders (set construction). LAPAC is also looking for sponsors to set up a table to hand out candy after the Haunted House tour. This is a good way to promote your club or business in Lake Ashton! 24
RSVP TODAY! Estate Planning Simplified How to Reduce Taxes & Maximize Impact Inheritance Taxes: What Your Heirs May Owe and How to potentially Reduce Their Tax Burden RMDs and the Potential Advantage of Roth Conversions SPEAKER: Michael Kennedy Financial Advisor Tuesday 7/22/25 @ 1pm Learn the purpose of key estate documents— trusts, wills and powers of attorney Tax-effective strategies designed to maximize income for a surviving spouse HFC Lake Ashton 6052 Pebble Beach Blvd Lunch Provided! 863-340-6225 REGISTER TODAY Horizon Wealth Planning 1950 Cypress Gardens Blvd Suite C Winter Haven, Fl 33884 Tasha.Saca@horizonwealthplan.com Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax advice. You should discuss any tax matters with the appropriate professional. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA / SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc.. Horizon Wealth Planning is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. 25
THE LINEUP: SUMMER MUSIC SERIES Jam out to these rad local bands with your friends & neighbors! Purchase Clubhouse Show tickets at the Clubhouse Activities Office or online for $15 each. See on sale dates below for HFC shows. July 25 - Carlos & Company at the HFC A husband & wife duo who perform hits from the 50's to the present in all genres. Tickets on sale at the HFC. AUGUST 29 – clubhouse Beach Party Bash with DJ ItSY ROC Celebrate summer at the Clubhouse and enjoy great vibes at the beach party bash featuring DJ Itsy Roc playing a wide variety of music for everyone! August 22 - The Dukes at the hFc The Dukes keep the music of the 50's & 60's alive by singing their unique blend of Doo Wop and Rock & Roll. Tickets on sale July 1 at the HFC. September 12 - Josh Blevins at the hfc Josh Blevins started singing as a young boy and his voice carries a traditional yet current county sound! Get ready for an energetic and unforgettable night of live music. Tickets on sale August 1 at the HFC. Camp LA’S HOEDOWN THROWDOWN July 3 at 7 pm The final event - snacks, dancing, camp awards, and more! Tickets: $5 at the Clubhouse Activities Office or online (get your money back at the door) - last day to purchase is July 1. THANK YOU Sponsors: AdventHealth, Performance Golf Carts, Iceberg Home Services, Spring Lake 26
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CLUBS ON HIATUS? Has the leadership for your Club, Group, or Organization changed or is your group planning to take a summer hiatus? Contact Caroline Lane at clane@lakeashtoncdd.com or 863.324.6032 to make these updates. Currently on Hiatus: • Tap Jammers • LA Community Action Committee • LA Black Heritage Club • Sandy’s New York State Club • LA Republican Club • LA Garden Club • LA Community Garden • LAVA Auxiliary LAKE ASHTON FRIENDS OF MEALS ON WHEELS By Marcia Santino This month we shine a spotlight on Meals on Wheels recipient, PO1 Michael Whittaker (retired). Petty Office First Class Michael Whittaker retired in 2006 following 24 years of service in the US Navy after being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis while serving in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Originally from New York City, Michael was stationed throughout Asia, Australia and Norway during his career and was also deployed to Iraq during Operation Desert Storm. Michael moved to Lake Alfred about 3 years ago to be near family scattered around Florida. He receives MOW meals 2 days per week and can be found most mornings riding his recumbent bike 2 miles around his community. Michael is pictured above with MOW delivery volunteer, Dennis Santino. 28 LA DEMOCRATIC CLUB By Howard Mayne The Lake Ashton Democratic Club will not hold its monthly meeting in July. Information about the meeting on August 7 will be sent out later. For further information contact email address below. Email: lakeashtondemocraticclub@gmail.com GARDEN CLUB By Pam Klawinski Members that attended the June 11 meeting saw a demonstration on the ease of making vase arrangements from your garden and were welcomed to take them home. The Garden Club will not hold meetings in July or August but will resume regular meetings on September 10. All are welcome and no green thumb necessary to join in the fun! To become a Meals on Wheels meal recipient or volunteer please call: 863-299-1616. To join the Lake Ashton Friends of Meals on Wheels Club please email: lafomow@gmail.com Next Second Chance Donations Day is July 17. LAVA AUXILIARY By Chris Graves The LAVA Auxiliary will NOT be meeting in July and August … Happy Summer to All! We will meet again on September 18 at 6:30 p.m. We meet in the Main Clubhouse near the stage. CRAFT FAIR UPDATE - The Craft Fair is on October 25. All Lake Ashton residents are welcome to attend and it will be open to the public. The Ballroom will be filled with wonderful crafts and lots of crafters! The LAVA Auxiliary will also make available yummy home made baked goods and hot dogs for sale. Bakers! Bakers! We are in need of baked goods for the Craft Fair There will be 3 scratch-off winners who will each win $100 worth of scratch-off tickets. Mark your calendar for October 25 and as they say “C’mon down” to the Clubhouse to have some fun! God Bless America!
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FRIENDLY BOCCE GROUP By Stephanie Iszak 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 Friendly Bocce Ball rules and regulations. Friendly Bocce Tailgate parties for 2025 have ended and will resume in January 2026. Contact Stephanie Iszak (609-980-9505, siszak@comcast.net) or Tammy Shields (863-632-2024, tammy.shields1221@gmail.com) with questions. Looking forward to having many new Friendly Bocce players. LA PICKLEBALL By Coach Dennis Santino The new pickleball courts are now completed at the HFC. LAPA would like to give a special thanks to the Lake Ashton Tennis Group for working together to bring this project to fruition. The Tennis Complex at the Clubhouse has also been refurbished. Residents that play either (or both) sports are encourage to join these established Clubs. LAPA organized another fun Memorial Day member’s mixer. The next scheduled member’s event is a mixer and barbecue on July 5 to celebrate Independence Day. Sign up sheet is at the HFC. Coaches Corner: Getting to the non-volley. The goal is not just getting to the NVC but to create scoring opportunities. When hitting a good deep return don’t admirer your shot, get to the NVC with your partner. This creates scoring opportunities by putting pressure on your opponents. Remember my number 1 rule: HAVE FUN! 30 TRAVEL CLUB By Shelley Brook Do you love to travel, but hate the hassle of planning and booking your trips? Are you a solo traveler, or does your spouse hate to travel? Do you like to travel with friends or family? Would you be interested in being part of a Lake Ashton travel club with a membership fee of $10 per person, and getting special deals specific for our community? If so, the LA Getaways travel club membership might be the perfect solution for you. Travel clubs offer a variety of benefits, including discounts on hotels, flights, and other travel expenses. They can also provide access to exclusive travel experiences, such as tours and cruises, unique experiences and expert advice and support. There will be an email blast coming out to all Lake Ashton residents about this new club and the anticipated Kickoff meeting will be September 30 from 6:30 to 8 pm in the Clubhouse Ballroom. Day trips with Small World Tours for 2026 will be presented at that time as well. Mexican Train Dominoes Come Join the Fun Thursdays and Sundays 1 to 3 pm in the Clubhouse Game Room. Arrive by 12:50. Lessons given as needed. Sense of humor necessary. Questions? Text Joanne McKinley at 304-261-6905. OPEN play mah jongg We are looking for both men & women to join us in a fun, friendly game of Mah Jongg. Some experience is required. We would love to have you stop in and say hello Wednesdays from 2 to 4 pm at the HFC Card Room. Questions? Contact Carolyn Neuberger at nachuma@mail.com or 516-317-0120. Chess club Friendly games on Thursdays at 1:30 pm in the Poker Room at the HFC. Some members play each other online. Players of all levels are welcome. Informal lessons can also be arranged for those who want them. Questions? Contact Howard Mayne at 603-285-5640.
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. Registering in advance is suggested by signing up in the red book in the Clubhouse Card Room, or by emailing Don at dfuller627@yahoo.com. May 19: A Group: 1st Graham Littlehales & Sandra Berg; 2nd Jim Ford & Don Fuller; 3rd Sonny Robinson & Pat Foster B Group: 1st Liz Leigh & Trish Kellar 2nd Marge Kniat & Lois Dole, Maureen Ziegler & Nelda Sedlacek, Marion Nelson & Roger Nelson May 26: North-South: 1st Don Fuller & Jim Ford; 2nd Dee Mayne & Jeannine Connors; 3rd Marion Nelson & Roger Nelson East-West: 1st Graham Littlehales & Howard Mayne; 2nd Charlotte Walter & Liz Smith; 3rd Judy Marine & Dana Griffiths June 2: North-South: 1st Jim Ford & Don Fuller; 2nd Sonny Robinson & Pat Foster; 3rd Trish Kellar & Elaine Inman: East- West: 1st Graham Littlehales & Howard Mayne; 2nd Sally Bonkoski & Ron McKie; 3rd Dana Griffiths & Judy Marine June 9: A Group: 1st Jim Ford & Don Fuller; 2nd Marian Oshinsky & Pat Foster, 3rd Howard Mayne & Graham Littlehales: B Group: 1st Dee Mayne & Jeannine Connors; 2nd (tie) Maureen Ziegler & Nelda Sedlacek; 2nd (tie) Dana Griffiths & Judy Marine June 16: North-South: 1st Jim Ford & Don Fuller; 2nd Marian Oshinsky & Marge Kniat; 3rd Maureen Ziegler & Nelda Zedlacek. East-West: 1st Graham Littlehales & Howard Mayne; 2nd Judy Marine & Dana Griffiths; 3rd Jeannine Connors & Dee Mayne. LA ROCKERS By Annie Lutz One message at just the right moment can change someone’s entire day, outlook, life. This is LA Rockers mission. We paint rocks and scatter them throughout the neighborhood to spread kindness. Many of you 32 have found our rocks. Please feel free to keep them if you love them, or you can re-hide them to share the kindness with others. Posting a picture of your find on Talk of Lake Ashton makes us and others smile. We have been busily painting rocks this summer. With all of the sun and fun, we will be taking a hiatus from our regular meetings until September. If any of you are interested in joining us, please contact MJ at mjmrichards517@gmail.com for more information. Enjoy your summer fun! We look forward to seeing you at Camp Lake Ashton on July 2. 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. SIZZLING GRILL - STEAK & SEAFOOD 21400 US 27, Lake Wales, FL 33859 (863) 676-4898, sizzlinggrillfl.com $5 OFF the purchase of $50 or more Lake Ashton: Get a Free Mini dessert with purchase of $30. Bring this coupon to redeem.
Brad Kirwan’s Lake Ashton Customers Discuss His Real Estate Work Best Agent! We’ve bought and sold a lot of real estate, and we agree that Brad is the best agent we have worked with! He went above and beyond to take care of all details in our absence and to ensure a smooth closing. He was great at listening to our input, helping us price the house and managing our expectations. The listing photographs were beautiful, and we are very pleased with how quickly our home sold in this market. Terry & Kristine Beaupre (Seller) Verified by RateMyAgent Curious about your home’s current market value? Call for a free Comparative Market Analysis. BRAD KIRWAN 863.280.0390 33
MIND&BODY LEARN TO SQUARE DANCE By Keith Stevens Beat the heat this summer with square dance lessons in the air-conditioned Clubhouse Ballroom Thursday afternoons from 4 to 5:30 pm through August 14. You don’t need a partner to join the fun. It will be a fun way to stay in the cool and at the same time keep your body and mind active. Modern Western Square Dancing is recognized by the medical community as an encouraged activity to improve physical and mental health. All you need is a smile to join. $5/person/lesson. Bring a friend to join. Email davecaller@gmail.com or keithuns@yahoo.com for more information. LORRIE’S LINE DANCING Thursdays at the HFC 1 pm Beginner Class, 2 pm Improver. LUNCH & LEARN Dignity Memorial: August 20 at 11:30 am Learn about the following in the Clubhouse Ballroom: • What is Pre-planning? • The emotional and financial benefits of prearranging • How to protect funeral and cemetery arrangements from inflation • How Veterans can access their benefits • Pre-planning with a local funeral home vs. final expense insurance TRIVIA IN THE BALLROOM Lake Ashton Sunday Night Trivia will be played every Sunday Night in the Clubhouse Ballroom. There is a maximum of eight players per table, but no minimum. Bring $1/person to play. All money is returned to the winning tables. Trivia starts at 7 pm. Doors open at 6 pm. 34 CHARM CITY TRIVIA If you have not attended Trivia at Charm City, you do know what you’re missing: a lot of fun! Charm City Trivia is held every Tuesday Night in the Restaurant beginning at 6 pm. You can have a group or just come and play. Each group can have up to eight players. Charm City Gift cards will be awarded to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners. Reserve your table. Come early, have dinner, a few drinks, socialize, and have fun! We look forward to seeing everyone. Your guests are welcome! CARDS FOR ALL AGES Join in the fun making cards July 2 from 2 to 4 pm in the Clubhouse Craft Room. This class is for all levels. If you’ve never made cards before come try something new. All card materials to make two cards are provided for $5. Please bring scissors and your favorite adhesive. If you don’t have adhesive, we do sell it at a very discounted price of $4. You must register to attend, space is limited. If you do sign up please do your best to attend as well often have a waiting class. Contact Marianne Morcone mkegolfer@aol.com, 860-712-9440 or Judy Ridpath, judy@judyridpath.com, 650-678-1174. CREATE A CARD July 15 at 10 am in the HFC Sports Court. A guest expert will provide instruction, from beginner to expert, all supplies and equipment, and three beautiful cards to take home for $12. No experience needed. Sign up at the HFC. Call Karen at 262-497-3272 with questions. SCAN WITH YOUR SMARTPHONE TO SIGN UP FOR CLASSES & EVENTS AT THE CLUBHOUSE!
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GOLF A NOTE FROM THE NEW GM The Lake Ashton Golf Club is pleased to welcome Kevin Baker as its new General Manager. Kevin officially joined the team on June 2nd, and he has already begun engaging with members and immersing himself in the spirit and culture that make Lake Ashton so unique. With over 30 years of experience in the golf and hospitality industry, Kevin brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership. A native of Fargo, North Dakota, his career has included tenures at notable properties such as PGA National Golf Club, Palm Coast Resort, and Hammock Beach. He spent over a decade at Reunion Resort & Golf Club, where he advanced from Head Golf Professional to General Manager. Most recently, he served as General Manager at Bella Collina for five years. Outside of his professional life, Kevin is a devoted husband and father. He and his wife Cheryl are celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary this year, and their daughter Hayley, a recent SCAD graduate, is now building her career in the fashion industry in Los Angeles. As the summer season begins, Kevin would like to highlight the Summer Membership Program—an excellent opportunity for residents to enjoy full access to the club. For just $1,200 per family or $750 for individuals, members receive unlimited golf and driving range access through September 30th. Additionally, those who join as full members in October will receive a $500 credit applied toward their membership dues. Kevin also extends his thanks to those who participated in the recent membership survey. Your feedback plays a vital role in shaping the club’s future offerings. Updates based on that input will be shared later this month. Members who haven’t yet had the chance to meet Kevin are encouraged to stop by the 41 golf shop and introduce themselves. He looks forward to working alongside the Lake Ashton community and is eager to hear members’ ideas and input as the club moves forward. LALGA By Beverly Hines Congratulations to our Red Hoagland Challenge Winners (pictured)! The top four members who have earned the most prize money during the LALGA year – June 2024 through May 2025 are recognized. Thank you, Red Hoagland, for your continued support. The continued purpose of the LALGA is to pr omote interest in golf among women players, to encourage competition, and to provide opportunities for fellowship. Every Tuesday in league play we focus on the first two of these goals. On the second Tuesday of each month, we focus on the third goal, fellowship, after league play at our monthly luncheon. It provides members with an opportunity to meet new members, relax a bit and interact with each other in a purely social setting while enjoying a nice lunch and a cold beverage. We encourage all members to participate in our Summer Tournament on July 7 and 8 with the theme, Viva Las Vegas. Put on your best casino party attire and join the fun by signing up in the Pro Shop on the LALGA bulletin board. Congratulations to Patti Adame on her Chip-in Eagle on Hole #7 East, June 10, 2025! Stay hydrated and remember for the summer, 9hole sign up is available.
LAMGA By David Kubissa The league’s signature event this month is dubbed “Sweat and Swing,” so-named as a concession to golfing weather at the height of summer. The game – a pick-your-foursome format -- is scheduled for July 9, and it includes a hot dog-bar lunch. If you’re new to Lake Ashton and would like to play in the men’s league, pick up an application at the LAMGA bulletin board in the pro shop or download one from the LAMGA web page on lakeashtonliving.com. This web page also includes LAMGA board contact information, the quarterly game schedule, and results of the 2025 MemberGuest tournament. Rule reminder: With the rainy season on the way, golfers may have to negotiate around standing water in bunkers. USGA rule 16.1c allows relief when your ball is in a bunker pool of water. (Pictured left: This bunker on No. 6 East would allow a ball in the water to be moved to a point on the left or right of the puddle and no nearer the hole.) You can place the ball within one club length of the nearest point of complete relief within the bunker, but no closer to the hole. You also can drop the ball back-on-the-line and outside the bunker, but with a one-stroke penalty. For more information, go to the USGA website at usga.org and search on Rule 16.1c. At the halfway point in the annual Red Hoagland Hyundai Challenge, here are the leaders: Pat O'Neil, $109.35; Denis Mulhearn and Steve Kettells, tied at $90.50; Jim Salb, $88.90. Pictured left: Jim Salb and Steve Kettells. The top four finishers in the challenge, which ends Oct. 31, will receive prizes courtesy of Red Hoagland Hyundai. 38 Sponsors salute: These healthcare professionals and businesses have supported LAMGA this year. Boyett Family Dentistry; Dental Arts of Winter Haven, Paul Palo, DDS; Forni Dental; George W. Butz III, DDS; Lake Wales Dental Group, Ed Cortes; Chiroworks; Eye Specialists of Mid-Florida; Family Eye Care; Jahna Chiropractic, LLC; Medicare Made Simple, Marti Schmidt; Strain Theory. LA NINERS By Sandy Hockenberry The new 2025 - 2026 Niners Board has been busy reviewing the By-Laws, discussing upcoming games and lunches. The Board is pleased to announce, beginning with our winter season, Dot Bothwell will be the new Statistician. The Statistician’s role is to maintain records of Holes-in-One, Eagles and Birdies achieved during League play. Those achievements will be recognized at the Closing Day Lunch. The Greens have just been aerated, please remember to repair any ball marks on the green, even if it is not yours. Also, don’t forget to fill divots with sand and rake the sand traps as needed. July games will be: July 1: Blue Man/Niners 18 Hole Par 3 Scramble – Wear your Red, White and Blue! Teams will be made up of Niners and Bluemen. Teeing off at the orange flags, play best ball from the teams four shots until the ball is holed. This is an 18 hole game, followed by lunch at the Eagles Nest (team game). July 8: Individual Low Putts – lowest number of putts in flight wins (individual game). July 15: Shamble – two best nets – everyone plays from the best drive, then play their own ball until ball is holed. Record the two best nets for the team score, lowest score wins (team game). July 22: Convert 2 Holes to Par – at the end of the game each player converts two holes to par. Low gross/low net wins (individual game). July 29: Four Person Scramble - Play best ball from the teams four shots, until ball is holed. Low net score wins. Followed by Lunch with Friends.
BODY MIND SOUL Don’t let the weather outside stop you from staying active! Enjoy these indoor or aquatic classes and activities every day! MONDAY • 9 AM: TOTAL BODY TONING - HFC • 10 AM: CHAIR BARRE - HFC • 11 AM: CLASSICAL STRETCH - HFC • 12 PM: AQUA PUMP - HFC POOL • 3 PM: FREE VIRTUAL MEDITATION SESSION VIA ZOOM — EMAIL YOGAWINTERHAVEN@GMAIL.COM TUESDAY • 8:30 AM: WATER AEROBICS - CLUBHOUSE POOL • 9 AM: CHAIR YOGA - CLUBHOUSE BALLROOM, $5 • 9 AM: DYNAMIC CARDIO MOVEMENT - HFC • 11 AM: PILATES - HFC • 4 PM: AQUA MOTION - HFC POOL WEDNESDAY THURSDAY • 8:30 AM: WATER AEROBICS - CLUBHOUSE POOL • 8:45 AM: YOGA SHARE - CLUBHOUSE BALLROOM • 9 AM: CORE CONDITIONING & STRENGTH - HFC • 10 AM: AQUA LOCOMOTION - HFC POOL FRIDAY • 8:30 AM: WATER AEROBICS - CLUBHOUSE POOL • 9 AM: INSTRUCTOR'S CHOICE - HFC • 10 AM: AQUA PUMP - HFC POOL • 8:30 AM: WATER AEROBICS - CLUBHOUSE POOL • 9 AM: DYNAMIC CARDIO MOVEMENT - HFC • 10 AM: PILATES - HFC • 11 AM: CLASSICAL STRETCH - HFC • 4 PM: AQUA MOTION - HFC POOL SATURDAY • 8:30 AM: WATER AEROBICS - CLUBHOUSE POOL • 10:30 AM: FIT BODY BY CLINTON - HFC - $5 SUNDAY • 10 AM: WELL-BEING IS NOW (W.I.N.) WITH REA - HFC - $5 simply HEALTHY
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