TIMES L.A. Lake Ashton Community Newsletter April 2023 Simply the Best! "Those who bring sunshine into the lives of others cannot keep it from themselves." - James M. Barrie THIS MONTH, WE CELEBRATE LAKE ASHTON'S VOLUNTEERS. 4141 Ashton Club Drive Lake Wales, FL 33859 Lake Ashton is a 55 & Older Deed Restricted Community 863.324.6032 863.324.5457 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 May Issue Deadline: April 13 • Articles can be submitted on behalf of Lake Ashton clubs/ groups/organizations to promote lifestyle enhancing, opportunities, and must be approved by the group leader prior to publication • Email articles to: valerie@lakeashtoncdd.com • 150 word limit. Articles will be edited for length, clarity, and to ensure compliance with districts’ media policies • Include your club contact and phone number • The writing style is third person — avoid using I, me, my, we, our, or personal pronouns Photo Specifications: • All photos must be high-res digital images in “jpeg” format and submitted via email or CD/flash drive • Space will generally allow only one photo per article • The designer and printer will make the final determination as to the print quality of photographs for publication THE LAKE ASHTON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT DOES NOT ENDORSE OR SUPPORT ANY PARTICULAR POLITICAL CANDIDATE, PARTY, MEASURE OR ISSUE, OR ANY PRODUCT OR SERVICE. FRONT COVER PHOTO BY BARBARA ANN COMER BACK COVER PHOTOS BY DENNIS KRUPINSKI Clubhouse Office Manager: Sheila Moreland 863.324.5457 smoreland@lakeashtoncdd.com Clubhouse Operations Manager: Matt Fisher 863.956.6207 mfisher@lakeashtoncdd.com HOA Office (LW) Golf Club - Ron Lavoie, General Manager Matt Auen, Head Golf Professional Eagle’s Nest Vicki Moore, Manager RV & Storage Center 863.325.0065 directors@lakeashtonhoa.org 863.326.1032 863.326.1032 rlavoie@lakeashtongc.com mauen@lakeashtongc.com 863.326.1085 vmoore@lakeashtongc.com 863.326.1304 dholmes@lakeashtonstorage.com Police Non-Emergency Numbers: Lake Wales: 863.678.4223 Winter Haven: 863.291.5858 Polk County Sheriff: 863.298.6200 In case of emergency, dial 911 3 APRIL 2023 Lake Ashton employees are at your service. We want your experiences in the Clubhouse, Golf Course and HFC to be as pleasant and memorable as possible! Do not hesitate to contact any of the below with comments, questions or concerns. Lake Ashton Clubhouse 4141 Ashton Club Drive Lake Wales, FL 33859 Phone: 863.324.5457 Fax: 863.324.5829 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 HFC Activities Office Manager: Krystle Funk 863.595.1562 kfunk@lakeashton2cdd.com Gate Houses & Security Officers: Thompson Nursery Rd. (LW): 863.324.7290 County Road 653 (WH): 863.318.0237
MONDAY COFFEE Don't miss Monday Coffee with your friends and neighbors at 9 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom. Coffee & donuts are available for $2. APRIL 3 • Birthdays and Anniversaries • Featured Speakers: Lake Wales Envisioned Updates with Dover Kohl, Lake Ashton ASL Learning to Hear with Your Eyes • Featured Vendors: Christine Graves Insurance & ComForCare APRIL 10 • Bite Me Monday - Donations for Humane Society of Polk County • Featured Speakers: City of Winter Haven Water Conservation and Young at Heart - Senior Entrepreneurship Program • Featured Vendor: Matt Simpson with Edward Jones APRIL 17 — NO MONDAY COFFEE — LACDD BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETING APRIL 24 • Peanut Butter Monday - Non-perishable food donations for Lake Wales Care Center can be dropped off to the Ballroom Kitchen • Featured Speaker: Polk County Fire Rescue Fire Safety • Featured Vendor: Melissa Kincaid with Edward Jones LACDD & LAIICDD WEBSITES lakeashtoncdd.com [below left QR code] lakeashton2cdd.com [below right QR code] Follow the link to find board meeting dates, agendas, minutes, Supervisor contact information and other documents. You can also sign up to receive blast emails from the Clubhouse and HFC. IN THIS ISSUE NEWS 6 LA LOOKS 14 SAFETY 18 MOVIES 20 EVENTS 22 GOLF 28 CLUBS 32 MIND & BODY 40 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETINGS LAKE ASHTON II (WH) CDD Special Meeting Monday, April 3 at 9 am CDD Meeting Monday, April 17 at 8:30 am Health & Fitness Center LAKE ASHTON (LW) CDD Continued Meeting Thursday, April 13 at 11 am Monday, April 17 CDD Meeting at 9:30 am Budget Workshop at 10 am Clubhouse Ballroom CIT Y COMMISSION MEETINGS LW: 1st & 3rd Tuesdays at 6 pm, Commission Chambers, Municipal Administration Bldg., 201 W. Central Ave., Lake Wales WH: 2nd & 4th Mondays at 6:30 pm, John Fuller Auditorium in City Hall, 451 3rd St. NW, Winter Haven
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HOURS OF OPERATION CLUBHOUSE: 6 am – 10 pm daily CLUBHOUSE OFFICES & ACTIVITIES DESK: 9 am – 5 pm Monday through Friday Photo ID Hours: Tuesdays and Wednesdays, Noon to 3 pm (12- 2 pm on April 4 or by appointment) HFC OFFICES & ACTIVITIES DESK: 8 am – 4 pm Monday through Friday HEALTH & FITNESS CENTER: 5:30 am – 10 pm daily EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT Joseph "Joe" Payne is our new Facility Maintenance Coordinator. He started with us on February 14 and we are happy to have him as a part of the Lake Ashton team. He is a retired firefighter from Birmingham, AL and comes to us with extensive carpentry and construction skills (he built is own house from the ground up!). His has been married to his wife, Melissa for over 20 years and has 4 kids, ages 27, 25, 12 and 10. Please join us in welcoming Joe to Lake Ashton. We are lucky to have him! Thank you to the Garden Club for planting flowers in front of the Pavilion and all the other areas around the community. They truly are making the entire community more beautiful every day. They are a great group! 6 NEXT MONTHLY MARKET: April 12 from 10 am to 2 pm Clubhouse West Parking Lot BAXTER’ S QUAL ITY MEATS Clubhouse West Parking Lot Wednesdays from 10 am to 2 pm BOOKMOBILE April 12 and 26, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm (closed for lunch 12:30 to 1:15), Clubhouse West Parking Lot VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT: MARY AX Mary’s smiling face has been greeting visitors on Mondays at the Clubhouse Activities Desk for the past 14 years. She volunteers because she loves meeting people and keeping up with the community. She has two sons and two grandsons. She is an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan and is most recently from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She said she married into the Steelers when she married her husband, Bob! NEW RESIDENT SOCIAL The next New Resident Social will be held on April 14 at 2 pm at the HFC. Please sign up at either Activities Desk. A Message From Mary Bosman I'd like to thank all the resident friends who came to the pizza party to say farewell in February or stopped by for a chat before or after that time. I miss Lake Ashton as it's been a part of me for many years. A special thanks to staff and the LA II CDD Board for their great support over the years. It's appreciated more than you know.
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LACDD LACDD NEWS BOA R D O F SUP E RVISO R S CONTA CT INF O Lloyd Howison, Chairman 704-302-6555, lhowison@lakeashtoncdd.com Brenda Van Sickle, Vice Chair 863-324-6191, brenda.vansickle@lakeashtoncdd.com Michael Costello, Assistant Secretary 863-875-9228 or 732-718-7431, mcostello@lakeashtoncdd.com Debby Landgrebe, Assistant Secretary 863-268-8193, dlandgrebe@lakeashtoncdd.com Steve Realmuto, Assistant Secretary 863-949-0304, steve.lacdd@gmail.com Office Hours: April 10, 10 am to noon in the Clubhouse Conference Room By Christine Wells, LA (LW) CDD Community Director Supervisors and staff would like to wish residents a Happy Passover and Happy Easter. There are many ways to enjoy this beautiful season as noted throughout this edition of the newsletter. Spring ushers in warm days, cooler nights, and many visiting guests. Guests are often amazed at the number of activities and amenities available and Clubhouse staff wants to continue this tradition of community pride. Feedback from residents regarding facility maintenance or activities is always encouraged and welcomed. Soon Charm City at Lake Ashton will be open in the Clubhouse — stay tuned to media for more information regarding opening dates. In the meantime residents can enjoy a limited menu from their food truck that will be at Lake Ashton weekly! All residents are encouraged to attend monthly CDD meetings to obtain firsthand information concerning community affairs. At the March meeting Supervisors discussed strategic planning and the upcoming budget process. The budget workshop will be held on April 17 at 9:30 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom. A wrap up of additional actions taken was sent out on March 22. April is National Volunteer Appreciation Month, a time to celebrate those who dedicate their time to be stewards of this community. This is a perfect time to recognize and say thank you to the volunteers who work hard to ensure Lake Ashton maintains its reputation of being “Simply the Best.” When you are bowling in a league be sure to thank the volunteer pinsetter that is there to ensure a great experience is had by all. Next time you grab a book from the Media Center, thank a member of the Library Committee for ensuring this amenity is well-organized and ready for use. When purchasing a ticket at the Activities Desk, thank the volunteer that helps you find a perfect seat. These volunteers, among hundreds of others, work hard to ensure residents, like themselves, enjoy the amenities and have an enjoyable experience at Lake Ashton. Join staff in celebrating all of the volunteers at Lake Ashton for bringing the community closer together and for their service and commitment to residents. See page 22 for information on a special event for volunteers. Safe travels to those leaving for the summer. Please continue to check email for an electronic version of the LA Times to stay up-to-date while away. There is a Summer Checklist available at the Clubhouse Information Wall and posted on lakeashtoncdd.com for those traveling away from Lake Ashton over the summer. Residents can also view updates regarding CDD business on the website, and can attend meetings virtually using the Zoom link that is emailed each month. For those staying to enjoy the summer at Lake Ashton, sit back and enjoy all that staff has planned. Its going to be a great year! 8
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, Public Works, Infrastructure, Wetland Resident Project Office Hours: Tuesdays 9:30 am to 12 pm 863.875.4554, mecsicsj@msn.com Bob Zelazny, Vice Chairman Golf Course, Pro Shop, Eagle’s Nest, Facilities and Field Operation, Transportation System (roads, bridges, paths, etc.) Office Hours: Mondays 1 to 3 pm 863.325.8098, bzelazny@lakeashton2cdd.com Mary C. Clark, Assistant Secretary Budget, Planning 252-503-7087, maryclark725@gmail.com Angela Littlewood, Assistant Secretary Special Projects, Landscaping Area including Pet Play Parks Office Hours: Thursdays 9 to 10:30 am 352.250.9707, alittlewoodlakeashton2cdd@gmail.com Roy Aull, Assistant Secretary Facilities and Field Operation Office Hours: Friday 9 to 10:30 am 973-670-2709, raull@lakeashton2cdd.com JOINT AMENITIES POLICY Each month an excerpt from the newly adopted Joint Amenities Policy will be featured in the LA Times. The full policy can also be found online by visiting lakeashtoncdd.com or lakeashton2cdd.com under "Additional District Documents.” Listed below is the specific policy that is in place regarding the smoking policy at Lake Ashton. Please reach out to Christine Wells, LA (LW) CDD Community Director via email at (cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com) or James Margeson, Interim LA II (WH) CDD Community Director (maintenance@lakeashton2cdd.com) with any questions. SMOKING: Lake Ashton is a smoke-free community. Smoking tobacco products or electronic cigarettes are prohibited at all facilities and venues unless in a designated area. The designated smoking/vaping area at the Clubhouse has been moved from the Ballroom Patio to the southern portion of the east parking lot near the dumpsters. There is no smoking/vaping in any other areas. There are 2 smokers outposts in that area. The smoking area at the HFC is by the pool pump area on the tennis court side. ADDITIONALLY, PLEASE REMEMBER: According to the Joint Amenities Policy, pets must be leashed and under control of an adult handler at all times. HOMELESS GRADUATING SENIORS By Doris Reisinger The need never seems to go down. More than that these students are so appreciative of any help and most importantly that someone cares and supports them. Vickie Griffith stated the computers given to each student last year have risen in price by 50%. This may cut back on scholarships that have been awarded in the past. Because of your donations they face a less worrisome summer and a little brighter future. The plans are in full swing for their graduation party and part of that is our banner. Make sure to sign at any Monday Coffee through April 10. Last day of our collection will be April 15. All donations, whether checks, domestic items, or gift cards, can be dropped off at either Activities Desk or by contacting Doris at 217-652-6636 or miker0343@yahoo.com. 9
MUNICIPAL ELECTION FOR CITY OF LAKE WALES The Regular Municipal Election for the City of Lake Wales will be held Tuesday, April 4. There are two seats up for election: Seat 3, (currently held by Commissioner Terrye Howell) and Seat 5 (currently held by Commissioner Robin Gibson). These seats are for three year terms. Lake Ashton residents living in Lake Wales can vote in person in the Clubhouse Ballroom on Election Day or contact the Supervisor of Elect ions at 863-534-5888 to request an absentee ballot. The polls are open from 7 am to 7pm. Please be sure to bring a photo ID. To find out more, visit polkelections.com for a sample ballot or contact the City of Lake Wales City Clerk at 863-678-4182. Please note: Due to elections there will be no movies shown on this day. The Activities Office will remain open from 9 am - 5 pm. MEDIA CENTER COMPUTERS REMINDER Please remember the computers located in the Media Center are public computers. Residents should be careful when accessing sensitive information on these public computers. There have been instances where personal information has been left up on computers or printer, leaving it susceptible to being accessed by anyone. Safeguard your personal information at all times and please remember these are not personal home computers, but are accessed by many residents and guests everyday. Please note in the Clubhouse Media Center the computer closest to the printer is the only computer that is set up to print. Send a picture of any fish caught in ponds or lakes in Lake Ashton, along with your name, the lake or pond that it was caught in, as well as the type of fish caught and any measurements (length and/or weight) to valerie@lakeashtoncdd.com to be featured in the next edition of the LA Times. Don’t forget to include your smiling face! FREE IN-HOME ESTIMATES! FLOORING - BLINDS - SHUTTERS - SHOWER REMODELS 29710 US Hwy 27, Dundee 863-439-7500 10 www.jimsfloordepot.com
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CONGRATULATIONS SENIOR GAMES PARTICIPANTS! Dottie and Terry Dernbach participated in the horseshoes competition and Dottie received a gold medal in horseshoes in her age group. #2 Six (6) residents of Lake Ashton earned 9 Silver and 3 bronze medals in racquet sports during the 2023 Polk County Senior Games at Solivita. DOUG EPLER (75-79) Total of 6 medals! Pickleball: silver mixed doubles Tenni s : s i lver mixed doubles, bronze men’s doubles. Table tennis: silver men’s doubles, silver men’s singles, bronze in mixed doubles JAY BROOKS (70-74) Silver in men’s doubles table tennis. TOM PAVEL (80+) Bronze in singles table tennis DEBBIE LOUDER (75-79) : Silver in mixed doubles pickleball Silver in mixed doubles tennis MARILYN NOFFSINGER & LES JACOBSON (70-74) Silver in mixed doubles pickleball 12 #3 LA SWIM CLUB By Sandy White There are about 20 senior swim meets each year all around the state, all leading to a state championship each December and a National Games every 2 years. LA Swim Club has several swimmers who have already qualified for the state meet and one who is going to the Nationals in Pittsburgh in July. On the first weekend i n Ma r c h , t wo m e m b e r s swam in the Lee Coun t y Senior Games and 3 others swam in the Polk County Senior Games i n Lake l and (see photos). All came home wi th one or more medals and seve r a l continued to improve their times or techniques. As we age, we have to work to preserve strength. Most of our swim club members do more fitness than just swimming. Some can be found in one of the fitness centers, on bikes, participating in other sports. All are serious about maintaining or improving fitness and health. See page 34 for more information on the LA Swim Club.
L.A. LOOKS Wildlife Corner Photo & Article By Barbara Ann Comer Osprey (found on all continents except Antarctica) are year-round, nesting residents of Lake Ashton. Formerly known as the Fish Hawk they nest near fresh or salt water and eat mainly fish. It is always a thrill to see one of these large brown and white birds hovering over water and then plunging feet first into the water and rising up with a fish firmly and aerodynamically grasped in their large talons with the head forward. Osprey can easily be mistaken for Bald Eagles because of their coloration and large size. However a Bald Eagle does not have a white breast and undersides. When perched an Osprey will often appear more horizontal while the Bald Eagle tends to hold a more vertical posture. In flight, their long narrow wings are bent back at the wrist reminiscent of a gull. The bulky nests in Florida are often laden with Spanish Moss and they tend to typically raise two young. As with most birds in Florida, they tend to nest earlier than their northern counterparts. LA II (WH ) HOA By Gary Johnson, Secretary LA II (WH) Homeowners Association Board Members Contact Info • Kristy McKibben, President presidentla2hoa@outlook.com • Gary Johnson, Secretary secretaryla2hoa@outlook.com • Ray Rudy, Treasurer treasurerla2hoa@outlook.com • Dave Bishop, VP & ARC Liaison, vparcla2hoa@outlook.com • Bill Testa, VP & Asst. Treasurer, vptreasurerla2hoa@outlook.com 14 A Special Membership Meeting was held on March 15 for the purpose of voting on a proposed short-term rental amendment to be added to our current CC&Rs. Through proxy and in-person voting, the membership voted in favor of the amendment. The amendment will be processed through our attorney and filed with the county. The LAII HOA would like to thank the membership for their involvement in this process. LA ( LW) HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION BOARD MEMBERS CONTACT INFO • Management Company Don Asher • President Tom Hevel president@lakeashtonhoa.org • Vice President David Muller vp@lakeashtonhoa.org • Vice President 2 Debbie Holmes vp2@lakeashtonhoa.org • Treasurer Lynda Hadley treasurer@lakeashtonhoa.org • Secretary Tim Doyle secretary@lakeashtonhoa.org • Officer Bob Prowant manager@lakeashtonhoa.org • Officer Nancy Baker n.baker@lakeashtonhoa.org • Officer Greg Bluemke arc.lakeashtonhoa.org WHAT IS THE LITTORAL SHELF? The littoral area is the down-sloping shelf of a pond. It is commonly referred to as the shallow area near the shore. When it is healthy, the littoral shelf resembles a miniature wetland. Many native aquatic plant species thrive in these areas, including Bulrush, Pickerel Weed, and Duck Potato. These aquatic plants were discussed in last month's article. (continued on p. 16)
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Native Flowers of Central Florida By Lynn Davis If you’re interested in an easy ground-covering flower, then the common Blue Violet might be for you. This heart-shaped leaf plant grows in clumps and reaches 3 to 6 inches in height and diameter. Blue violets grow in sandy and clay soils so it’s a perfect fit for our area. It can be used in containers, borders or garden beds. Deadheading the flower will produce future blooms. The Blue Violet will grow in full sun or partial shade, but will produce more flowers in a sunny location. You’ll see flowers from spring and into summer. Why plant Blue Violets in your yard? Native Flowers are maintenance free and require little watering once established. The blue violet is no exception. It is also deer resistant. Tuck some blue violets around garden rocks or in a nook where it will mound. This plant also easi ly sel f -seeds, providing continuous plants for the coming year. You can find blue violets at The Nectary Nursery in Lakeland. (continued from p. 14) The littoral shelf provides numerous benefits, including improved water quality by cultivating beneficial species that consume nutrients that contribute to the growth of unwanted algae and invasive aquatic weeds, filters out the water before it exits the pond via a flow structure, and helps to maintain the shoreline, reducing erosion. Littoral shelfs can be found in Lake Ashton behind Limerick Drive and behind Litchfield Loop. Sandhill Cranes love to nest in the littoral shelf behind Limerick Drive as seen in the photo. Email Matt Fisher at mfisher@lakeashtoncdd.com with any questions or concerns. 16 LARGEST SELECTION OF INDOOR & OUTDOOR FANS ANYWHERE! UP TO 40% OFF Cleaning! $ Tuscan LED Light Remote WINTER HAVEN’S #1 QU 24999 $99 DISCONTINUED + DISPLAS! Design Y an Parts & Services Aailable In-Store Warranes Winer Haen 1104A Cypr d SE (Lampligh a) wancityom (863) 299-2777
Brad Kirwan’s Lake Ashton Customers Discuss His Real Estate Work Brad Went Above And Beyond To Help Sell Our House My wife and I were recovering from injuries sustained in a car accident when our house needed to be sold. These injuries and various doctor’s appointments limited our ability to do the things necessary to complete the sale of our house. I became frustrated and was ready to forego even trying to go on with selling our house when our RE Agent, Brad Kirwan, seeing how discouraged and overwhelmed we were, stepped forward and said he’d be glad to take over getting most of the tasks done (some minor home repairs and coordinating some upgrades) so we could complete the sale of our house…..Sure enough, Brad took over getting everything done, regularly keeping us informed of his progress, and we sold and closed the sale within a few weeks, achieving 98% of our asking price. Wow! We literally couldn’t have gotten it done without Brad’s extraordinary efforts to help us. What a relief! We consider Brad Kirwan a good friend and will always turn to him if we need to sell or buy real estate. He is definitely a cut above other agents, really knows his stuff, and is willing to work very hard for his clients. Thank you so much, Brad Kirwan! Verified by RateMyAgent Matt & Alice Mayer 14 January 2023 Curious about your home’s current market value? Call for a free Comparative Market Analysis. BRAD KIRWAN 863.280.0390 5% Commission 17
SAFETY CAP By David Muller The Citizens' Assisted Patrol (CAP) volunteers want YOU! Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd initiated the concept of having volunteers be the "eyes and ears" of the community. This means CAP is roving around Lake Ashton to report any services needed by police, fire department or emergency medical services. CAP only observes and reports if necessary. Your commitment would be TWO HOURS A WEEK. You get to drive the sheriff's car or golf cart and learn where all the streets are located while patrolling. If you like, you can use your own equipment after approval from the sheriff's office representative here at Lake Ashton. Want to ask questions or fill out an application? Please email Mike Weissberg at lakeashtoncap@gmail.com. More to come ... check out next month about the benefits of CAP to Lake Ashton. Pictured: Colton Morosky is Lake Ashton’s newest member of Florida's Citizen’s Assisted Patrol (CAP), soon to be on duty here at Lake Ashton. He is very proud of this accomplishment and is looking forward to serving Lake Ashton in this capacity. NEIGH B ORHO O D WATCH PRESENTS GRADY JUDD By Fay Wood, NW Chief Lake Ashton's Neighborhood Watch is once again proud to welcome Sheriff Grady Judd to Lake Ashton's Clubhouse Ballroom on Thursday, April 6 at 2:30 pm to share his perspectives and answer questions from residents. Doors will open at 2 pm for residents for seating on a first-come, first served 18 basis with a capacity of 350 residents. Doors will close promptly at 2:30 pm. Refreshments will be provided to all attendees and are sponsored by Water's Edge. Sheriff Judd was named Sheriff of the Year in 2022 and is a past President of the Florida Sheriffs Association and the Major County Sheriffs of America, a national organization serving counties with a population of 500,000 or more. Sheriff Judd has earned higher education degrees through the Masters level. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, the Senior Management Institute for Police, the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Seminar, and the FBI National Executive Institute. He was a participant of the Jewish Institute for National Security Affairs (JINSA) Law Enforcement Exchange Program (LEEP). He is a Polk County School Board Hall of Fame inductee, a past recipient of Polk State College’s prestigious Distinguished Alumni Award, the 2008 Boy Scouts of America Distinguished Citizen Award, Protect Our Children Junny Award, the 2013 Callyo’s Leaders in Online Child Protection Award, as well as the 2013 Church Women United Human Rights Award. C RT CERTainly Safe GOLF CART BATTERY SAFETY COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM Home Safety Tips from Your Lake Ashton Community Emergency Response Team Here are some VERY IMPORTANT safety tips about charging lead acid batteries in golf carts as posted on the National Fire Prevention Association website (see Internet link below for full article*): Ÿ Follow the manufacturer’s charging recommendations. Consult you cart’s manual or obtain a replacement manual if you can’t find your original copy. Ÿ Use the charger provided by the manufacturer. Ÿ Charge the cart in a ventilated area (open the garage door if charging inside). Ÿ Be sure to charge the cart when someone is home - not overnight (never while traveling). Ÿ Ensure your house AND GARAGE have a carbon monoxide, smoke or fire detector. Preferably wired to your inside detectors. Hydrogen, a very flammable gas, is emitted during charging. Contact a licensed electrician for proper alarm selection and installation. *https://www.nfpa.org/ “FORE! Improper charging of golf carts can lead to fumes and fire”
ALL IGATOR ALERT The weather is heating up quickly this year in Florida, kicking off alligator breeding season a tad early. Though alligator courtship typically begins in early April, with mating occurring between May and June, Gatorland CEO Mark McHugh said that the early Spring weather can be confusing to the reptiles, causing them to mate earlier. Residents may notice male gators lifting their tails high and slapping the water with their jaws to create vibrations throughout the water during mating season. In late June or July, female alligators will build a nest of soil, vegetation, or debris and lay up to 46 eggs, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Hatching occurs from mid-August through early September. It's estimated that there are 1.3 million alligators of every size in Florida's marshes, lakes, rivers, and retention ponds. Please be safe when enjoying the outdoors. A safe rule of thumb is if there is water... there could be an alligator present. TAKE CHARGE OF LIFE’S TRANSITIONS <#$3$* @4311"12 6"7"12 A('#$# 5 )"44# 6&12 A*(0 B3(* C*="/3"= @4311"12 D##*$ @(&$*/$"&1 @(&+3$* 63E* D#F$&1 >*#"=*1$ !"#"$ &'( )*+#"$* ,&( -./&0"12 !"($'34 5 6"7* 8*0"13(#9 :*;# 5 <='/3$"&134 >*#&'(/*#? Denise R. Tessier, Esq. 863.220.7927 Office | 863.225.2244 Direct Info@TessierLawFirm.com !!!"#$%%&$'()!*&'+",-+ 1375 Havendale Blvd. NW | Winter Haven, FL 33881 All vehicles, including golf carts, must obey all stop signs and the 20 mph speed limit throughout Lake Ashton. To drive a golf cart, you must be 14 years of age in Lake Wales and 16 years of age in Winter Haven. 19
MOVI ES ADDITIONAL CLOSED CAPTIONING SCREENINGS HAVE BEEN ADDED! NOW, ALL MOVIE SHOWINGS ON TUESDAY, AND THE 11 AM SHOWINGS ON WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY & FRIDAY ARE CLOSED CAPTIONED. CINEMA CAPACITY: 55 APRIL 5 — 6 (NO MOVIES ALL DAY APRIL 4) 11 AM, 3 & 7 PM CAUSEWAY 2022 | R | 1H 34MIN Jennifer Lawrence stars as Lynsey, a soldier struggling to adjust back home in New Orleans following a traumatic injury. When she meets local mechanic James (Brian Tyree Henry), the pair begin to forge an unexpected bond. APRIL 11 — 13 (NO 11 AM MOVIE APRIL 13) 11 AM, 3 & 7 PM THE UNBEARABLE WEIGHT OF MASSIVE TALENT 2023 | R | 1H 45MIN Nicolas Cage stars as Nick Cage, creatively unfulfilled and facing financial ruin, who must accept a $1 million offer to attend the birthday of a dangerous superfan (Pedro Pascal). Things take a wildly unexpected turn when Cage is recruited by a CIA operative (Tiffany Haddish) and forced to live up to his own legend, channeling his most iconic and beloved on-screen characters in order to save himself and his loved ones. With a career built for this very moment, the seminal awardwinning actor must take on the role of a lifetime: Nick Cage. APRIL 18 — 20 1 1 AM, 3 & 7 PM PARADISE HIGHWAY 2022 | R | 1H 55MIN Academy Award® winners Juliette Binoche and Morgan Freeman lead this riveting thriller set in the trucking industry and its seamy underbelly of human trafficking. To save the life of her brother (Frank Grillo), Sally (Binoche), a truck driver, reluctantly agrees to smuggle illicit cargo: a girl named Leila (Hala Finley). As Sally and Leila begin a danger-fraught journey across state lines, a dogged FBI operative (Freeman) sets out on their trail, determined to do whatever it takes to terminate a human-trafficking operation -- and bring Sally and Leila to safety. APRIL 25 — 27 11 AM, 3 & 7 PM 12 MIGHTY ORPHANS 2022 | PG-13 | 1H 58MIN 12 MIGHTY ORPHANS tells the true story of the Mighty Mites, the football team of a Fort Worth orphanage who, during the Great Depression, went from playing without shoes — or even a football — to playing for the Texas state championships. Over the course of their winning season these underdogs and their resilient spirit became an inspiration to their city, state, and an entire nation in need of a rebound, even catching the attention of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The architect of their success was Rusty Russell (Luke Wilson), a legendary high school coach who shocked his colleagues by giving up a privileged position so he could teach and coach at an orphanage. Few knew Rusty's secret : that he himsel f was an orphan. Recognizing that his scrawny players couldn't beat the other teams with brawn, Rusty developed innovative strategies that would come to define modern football. 20
MAY 7 CLASSIC & SPECIAL INTEREST MOVIES ARE SHOWN IN THE CINEMA FRIDAYS. 11 AM SHOWTIME IS CLOSED CAPTIONED. OSCAR WINNERS FROM 2022 APRIL 7 11 AM, 3 PM, 7 PM BLACK PANTHER: WAKANDA FOREVER 2022 | PG-13 | 2H 41MIN Queen Ramonda, Shuri, M'Baku, Okoye and the mighty Dora Milaje fight to protect their nation from intervening world powers after the death of beloved King T'Challa. Banding together with War Dog Nakia and Everett Ross, the heroes strive to forge a new path. APRIL 14 11 AM & 3 PM (NO 7 PM SHOWING) THE FABELMANS 2022 | PG-13 | 2H 31MIN Inspired by Steven Spielberg's own childhood, in this coming-of-age story, a young man uncovers a shattering family secret and the power of film and imagination to help us see the truth about ourselves and each other. APRIL 21 11 AM & 3 PM (NO 7 PM SHOWING) EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE 2022 | R | 2H 12MIN Evelyn Wang, a flustered immigrant mother, is contacted from a parallel universe and told that only she can save the world. The unlikely hero must learn to channel her newfound powers and fight through the splintering timelines of the multiverse to save her home, her family, and herself in this big-hearted and irreverent adventure. 21 APRIL 28 3 & 7 PM (NO 11 AM SHOWING — 3 PM SHOWING IS CLOSED CAPTIONED) THE WHALE 2022 | R | 1H 57MIN Racked with guilt over abandoning his family and grieving the loss of the gay lover he left them for, Charlie (Brendan Fraser) is eating himself to death. But the now-600-pound English professor may yet find redemption when he reconnects with his teenage daughter.
EVENTS THIRD ANNUAL LA CRUISEIN CAR SHOW WRAP-UP What a turnout this year! It was great to see so many returning faces and cars as well as all the new faces and cars. There was a great crowd too, we received the most Crowd Favorite ballots than the last two shows combined, amazing! We are truly grateful for all the volunteers that helped make the Cruise-In possible, it would be so much more difficult without them. A special thanks to our sponsors, Charles Roland of Banker’s Life, Performance Plus, and Water’s Edge. Mark your calendars now for next year’s show on January 14, 2024. Winners: Crowd Favorite & Best Classic – Chuck Luck Best Modern – Frank Martin THANK YOU FROM LAPAC! By Karen Nelson A thank you to the Lake Ashton Community from the Lake Ashton Performing Arts Corporation for your participation in, enthusiasm for, and support of the 2023 Showcase, "One Singular Sensation". Our performers and crews generously donated their time and talents so we could create and stage the Showcase, THANK YOU — your contributions are immensely appreciated on every level. Without your support this Showcase could not have occurred. To the LA residents who support the Showcase, and their neighbors and friends, in so many ways, THANK YOU! Your support is essential and tremendously appreciated. LAPAC's thoughts and plans have now turned to creating the 2024 Showcase — we can feel the excitement already building! Free Murder Mystery Event for Lake Ashton’s Volunteers It doesn’t take a detective to figure out that volunteers make Lake Ashton go ‘round, so Clubhouse staff and supervisors ar e showing their appreciation by inviting all LA volunteers to this very special event: Who: Anyone who volunteers at Lake Ashton in any capacity What: “Death of a Gangster” Murder Mystery Event … plus free desserts When: April 21 at 7 pm Where: Clubhouse Ballroom … aka the Dunn Speakeasy Why: To show appreciation for the volunteers who help keep LA running smoothly every day! Get your free ticket at the Clubhouse Activities Office for this event you won’t want to miss! This event is free thanks to the following sponsors: Performance Golf Carts, Andrew Stroud of Raymond James, Kevin Weltlin of State Farm, Water's Edge of Lake Wales. In this “married to the mob” event, you’ll never know who to trust. With the two families merging together, someone is bound to lose power, which means someone else will lose their life! Get on the trolley and solve this case with your fellow detectives. Dress like the cat’s meow for this mafia wedding! Flapper dresses, zoot suits, feather boas and headbands, pinstriped suits and fedoras are all appropriate. Traditional wedding attire is nifty too! 22
15TH ANNUAL F INE ARTS & PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW By Larry & Joanne Hillock The 15th annual Lake Ashton Fine Arts & Photography Show wouldn’t have been possible without 48 artists and photographers submitting 126 entries. The attendance of 576 was an all-time record! The show wouldn’t have been possible without of months of hard work by the committee consisting of Ann Boogher, Steve Bachleda, Nancy Hallfin, Larry & Joanne Hillock, Charles Inman, Sharon Makela, Marilyn Noffsinger and Lyn Rogers. Thank you to our sponsors, for providing complimentary admission, cookies and iced tea: Bernie Pruitt, Hill Nissan, Boyett Family Dentistry, The Gallery & Frame Shop, Kevin Weltlin — State Farm, Snowbird Heating & Cooling, and Tessier Law Firm. Thank you to all who made the show one for the record books. See the back cover of this issue for pictures. And the winners are: PHOTOGRAPHY Best In Show Shelley Brodka Pictorial 1st – John Garner 2nd – Beth Buie 3rd – Larry Brodka Honorable Mention – James Campbell Nature 1st – Larry Hillock 2nd – Barbara Ann Comer 3rd- Norman Stern Honorable Mention – Brad Kirwan People 1st- Michele Louapre 2nd – Julian Polgar 3rd – Sheri Garner Honorable Mention –- Alice Weissman Things 1st – Shelley Brodka 2nd – Jane Storrs 3rd – Ray Makovec Honorable Mention – John Garner 23 Creative 1st – John Garner 2nd – Pam Klawinski 3rd – Ron McKie Honorable Mention – John Garner FINE ARTS Best in Show – Sharon Makela Painting - Oil or Acrylic 1st – Carol O’Brien 2nd & 3rd– Marie Baral Honorable Mention – Lyn Rogers (2), Charles Inman (2), Cathy Libra (2) Painting - Watercolor 1st – Charles Inman 2nd – Barbara Staschke 3rd – Sharon Makela Painting – Mixed Media 1st – Barbara Staschke 2nd – Marie Baral 3rd – Becky Mistretta Drawing/Illustration (pastels) 1st & 2nd – Becky Mistretta 3rd – Joyce Longworth Lake Ashton BusTrips Sign up at the Clubhouse Activities Desk for the following trip with a check payable to Small World Tours: DATE TBD - DEEP SEA FISHING EXCURSION $175/PERSON INCLUDES R/T TRANSPORTATION, PRIVATE CHARTER ON 85 FOOT LONG BOAT, LICENSES, BAIT, TACKLE, FISHING ROD AND REELS, ICE, DRIVER GRATUITY. MAY 10 — 15: NASHVILLE MUSIC CITY $1599/PERSON INCLUDES R/T TRANSPORTATION, 5 BREAKFASTS, 2 LUNCHES, 3 DINNERS, ACCOMMODATIONS, TOURS, TICKETS, ACTIVITIES & ADMISSIONS, DRIVER GRATUITY. SEE MORE DETAILS AT CLUBHOUSE ACTIVITIES OFFICE. DEPOSIT: $500
EASTER (RESURRECTION) SUNDAY SUNRISE SERVICE By Debby Landgrebe Rejoice and celebrate the blessing of Resurrection Sunday on Easter, April 9. Bring your golf carts, blankets, family, friends, visitors and neighbors. Most of all bring your heart prepared to sing praises to the Risen Lord and be filled with abundant joy! Come early as Service will begin promptly at 7 am behind the Clubhouse, in the garden/lawn overlooking Lake Ashton. Gather to hear a local pastor and sing wonderful Easter hymns. For those also planning to attend their own church service, the LA Sunrise Service will conclude by 8. Seating will be available as well as golf cart parking. An offering will be taken. Everyone is welcome, regardless of belief. We have many reasons to be thankful and many reason to pray. Hope to see you Easter Sunday, April 9, behind the Clubhouse in the gardens at 7 am. Any questions, contact Debby Landgrebe. KARAOKE AT THE CLUBHOUSE Get over that mid-week hump on Wednesday, April 12, with some karaoke! Join friends and neighbors at 6 pm in the Clubhouse Ballroom to sing the night away. Tickets are on sale at the Clubhouse Activities Office for $5. DERBY DAY PARTY Enjoy glamorous hats, dapper outfits, mint juleps and more at the Clubhouse Derby Day party on May 6 at 4 pm. The dazzling decor will transport you to the heart of Churchill Downs and feel like you're partying at the Turf Club. Be entertained at the cocktail-styled party by acoustic classic country music from Joey Foley while indulging in delicious hors d'oeuvres for $25. Prizes will be given for the most fabulous hat and best Derby style! End the evening with a live stream of the Kentucky Derby. Purchase your Derby Day ticket starting April 3 at 10 am at the Clubhouse Activities Office with a check payable to LACDD, Visa, or MasterCard. Finger Sandwiches, Petite Desserts, Coffee, Iced Tea & Water Provided Shop at vendor tables of female owned businesses and fill your provided reusable shopping bag with goodies at a discount! Raffles and door prizes throughout the event. Tickets on sale April 10 for $17 24 Bloomin’ Beauties Ladies Luncheon May 19 at 11 am Clubhouse Ballroom
CRAWL! APRIL 14 AT 7 PM AT THE CLUBHOUSE PUB 4 STOPS: BIKER BAR featuring a motorcycle show … vote on your favorite bike! IRISH PUB featuring a live fiddler! TIKI BAR featuring beach tunes, limbo and leis for everyone! LA PUB featuring live music by the Rusty Wright Band! Ticket price includes a pub themed food sampling along with choice of a themed well drink (virgin options available), beer or wine sampling. A cash bar and non-alcoholic beverages will be available at the last stop (LA Pub). $45/PERSON at the Clubhouse Activities Office with check payable to LACDD, Visa or MasterCard.
BACK TO THE ‘ 80S PARTY AT THE HFC Get your tickets at the HFC Activities Office today! LAKE ASHTON VETERANS ASSOCIATION (LAVA) GOLF TOURNAMENT: SAVE THE DATE! By Jim Mecsics The Third Annual Armed Forces Day Commander in Chief Golf Tournament will be held on May 20 at the Lake Ashton Golf Club. LAVA is again sponsoring this event to benefit veteran organizations as well as a local scholarship program. Sign-up sheets will be posted on the bulletin board in the Pro Shop mid-April. The tournament is open to all residents, and you can register as an individual or a group. At sign up you will be asked to affiliate with one of our services (Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, Coast Guard) to determine the winner of the Commander in Chiefs Trophy. The cost for the event is $35 for residents with a golf membership, $40 for residents without a golf membership, and $50 for non-residents. The fee includes golf, carts, prizes and lunch. Checks should be made payable to the Lake Ashton Golf Management. Questions on the tournament or sponsorship can be addressed to Bob Zelazny, Nancy Baker, or Jim Mecsics. SAVE THESE DATES ! • June 2 – Luau at the Clubhouse • June 23 – A Swashbucklin’ Affair at the Clubhouse • July 4 - Rootin’ Tootin’ July 4 at the Clubhouse • August 18 - Woodstock Party Featuring Paisley Craze at the Clubhouse • August 31 - Camp Lake Ashton Jamboree 26
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GOLF LALGA By Lydia Fichtman Reminder: April 11 is the Closing Day Game and Luncheon. All awards will be distributed at this fun yearend event. Be sure you have signed up. A very big thank you to the Nominating Committee for all their hard work; Rita Lee, Chairperson, Kathy Reed and Carol Williams. This is not an easy task. The LALGA invites all league members to come to its monthly meetings which are the first Wednesday of the month in the Craft Room at the Clubhouse. Agenda items are emailed to the members prior to the meeting. As always, if you have a concern, please ask a board member to put it on the agenda for further discussion. Thank you. Question: How many of you actually know how to play the many different formats of games that are listed in our Welcome Packet: Alternate Shot, Best Ball, BetterBall, Four Ball Better-Ball (4BBB), Foursomes, Greensomes, Match Play, Skins, Stableford, Stroke Play, Scramble and Texas Scramble? Many of these are well-known to league members and are played during the course of the year. But here is a brief overview of the not so familiar ones. Greensomes, also known as Scotch Foursomes, is a competition format that is a variation of foursomes (2person teams, each playing one ball.) In Greensomes, both players on a team tee off, the best of the two tee shots is selected and that ball is then played alternateshot until holed. In regular foursomes, the 2-person team would play alternate shot for the full hole, i.e., only one tee ball would be hit. Greensomes is essentially a 2person scramble off the tee, then alternate-shot into the hole. Skins is used to calculate the number of holes won or lost by a player or team and is what the Skins Games is played for. In a Skins game, you play a type of match play format in which each hole has a set value (usually in money or points.) The player who wins the hole is said to win the “Skin,” and whatever that Skin is worth. 28 Skins games are often more dramatic than standard match play because holes are not halved. When players tie on a given hole, the value of that hole is carried over and added to the value of the following hole. The more ties, the greater the value of the “Skin” and the bigger the eventual payoff. For example, a friendly skins game might be played for $1 per hole. If three holes in a row are played without a winner, then the fourth hole is worth $4 ($1 for its own value, plus a dollar for each hole that carries over.) A Texas Scramble is a competition format that is a basic scramble with a twist. Scrambles involve 2/3/4-person teams playing 2/3/4-balls, but with each shot coming from the same spot (the best drive is chosen and all four team members then hit from that spot, and so on.) The variation in a Texas Scramble is that at least four drives, (or whatever the tournament organizers decide) must be played by the members of the team during the course of the round. The stipulated number of drives needs to be hit by Player A, and by Player B and so on. In a regular scramble, a great driver might have his tee ball used on every hole. A Texas Scramble eliminates that possibility and allows even the weakest driver on the team to get into the action. LAKE ASHTON LADY GOLFERS By Margie Dersham Several lady golfers competed recently in the Polk County Women’s Golf Association Handicap Tournament. The handicap tournament was a two day event: February 27 at Sandpiper and March 6 at the Lake Wales Country Club. Congratulations to: Liz Leigh: AA Flight/1st Place; Donna Larsen/4th Place Vicki Andrew: A Flight/2nd Place Brenda Poe: D Flight/6th Place Polk County Women’s Golf Association Members play numerous courses in the Polk County area from October through April. The play is always flighted and gives one an opportunity to play different courses in the area and meet other lady golfers that also love the game. Membership for next year 2023-24 is available now. For more details, email Vicki Andrew at vandrew710@gmail.com.
LAMGA By David Kubissa The annual LAMGA Member-Guest Tournament teed off on March 9 amid sunny skies and pleasant temperatures as 60 teams vied over three days for prize money dangled before them. There were payouts for placing in 10 flights, getting closest to pins, and winning a shootout on No. 18 West, coupled with a prize-studded raffle sponsored by Huston Cadillac Buick GMC. Here are the results for the 10 flights, which paid out for the top three places. Teams are listed in order of finish, from first place through third with the member’s name first and guest second: Flight 1: Terry Edmunds/Rick Kyzer; Larry Leising/ David Ginsburg; Stan Scheffen/Jerry McDonnough. Flight 2: Charlie Mutz/Dan Mutz; Bob Plummer/Kelly Shafer; Rolly Geyer/Burris Warner Jr. Flight 3: Tom Fleming/Jeff Fleming; Doug Hines/Rick Steury; Fred Schrauben/Bret Schrauben. Flight 4: Steve Morgan/Ken Geissler; Mike Gerard/ Chris Bruser; Bill Winchester/Mark Hogan. Flight 5: Frank Vasquenza/R.J. Dominic; Tom Schoendorf/Rich Coble; Les Jacobson/Steve Robertson. Flight 6: Jim Salb/Paul Salb; Larry Wilson/Carl Maenza; Mike Lee/Justin Lee. Flight 7: Denis Lussier/Bob Martel; Ron McDonnell/ Burris Warner Sr.; Randall Carpenter/Ron Caudill. Flight 8: Jerry Ryan/Cris Kendall; John Wyckoff Sr./ John Wyckoff Jr.; Ray Woods/ Wayne Baierel. Flight 9: Denis Mulhearn/Jeff Mulhearn; Tim Wayt/ Mike Dehman; Don Abbott/Joe Mosso. Flight 10: John Milsom/Dan Trudgen; Mike Lavigna/ Ron Penpraze; Carl A. Pritchard/Carl F. Pritchard. The tournament relied heavily on the support of local businesses, especially the major sponsors: Chris Bruser, Mutual of Omaha; Amerity Financial/Burris Warner; Snowbird Heating and Cooling; Art’s Golf Cars; and Red Hoagland Hyundai. These businesses provided funding that went toward food, beverages, and closest-to-pin prize money. A special thanks goes out to Huston Cadillac Buick GMC that supplied dozens of raffle prizes and offered a $50,000 credit toward a new vehicle if any golfer canned an ace on No 2 East. No one did. In other LAMGA news, the weekly games rolled on with players vying for prize credits at the pro shop. Here are the top five contenders for the Red Hoagland Hyundai Challenge with their accumulative winnings through March 1: 1st: Darrell Reid, $79.10; 2nd: Rolly Geyer, $51.75; 3rd: Paul Guay, $ 46.15; 4th: Don Feliks, $ 45.85; 5th: Mike Renaud, $ 45.75. Pictured: Golfers line up in the fairway on No. 18 West for the Red Hoagland Hyundai closest-to-pin shootout. Each of the teams in all 10 flights could choose one player to take a shot 100 yards to the hole and compete to be the one winner in his flight. LA NINERS By Marti Schmidt As another winter season comes to a close, we’d like to thank our President Karen Ferrande and our Treasurer MaryLou Jameson for all their hard work these past two years. Bravo! Great Job! Kudos! April 4th is our end of season scramble with luncheon and surprises – looking forward to seeing everyone there! Hard to believe it’s already time to say bon voyage to our snowbirds heading back north; safe travels to all. As the days get longer and hotter, just a quick reminder to keep hydrated. It’s easier now that some drinking water stations have been installed around the course. Still have questions? Ready to join? Contact Janet at jan.mutz@gmail.com for more info!
CLUBS CAMERA CLUB By Larry Hillock This month's meeting will be held on Monday, April 10 at 10:30 in the Cinema. Suggestions and planning for future photo shoots will be discussed. Members are encouraged to share their ideas. Please bring a few of your photos on a memory stick so they can be viewed by everyone. We will determine if we will meet in May, as many members will be starting to leave the community for the summer. GARDEN CLUB By Lynn Davis Lake Ashton’s Garden Club’s recent meeting was held on March 9 in the Pavilion. Most of the meeting centered around the club’s upcoming “silent auction” scheduled for April 13 at 10am in the Pavilion. This is the club’s big fundraiser. It is open to members of the Lake Ashton Community. There will be many plants and other garden related merchandise at a very affordable price! There will be succulents, native plants, and many houseplants to choose from. Gene, the Barefoot Gardener, will also be on hand to help answer plant and garden questions. Members of the club will be available too. The Garden Club asks buyers to please bring small bills if planning to attend. It will be a lot easier for making change. If anyone has items to donate please email Lynn Davis at crladavis@aol.com. The Garden Club does not collect dues. All monies from the fundraiser go towards upkeep of current and planned projects, guest speakers and other materials needed for club meetings. In addition to this month’s monthly meeting, Barb Cassidy, a member of the club, will have given a tour of her garden. The tour took place on March 23 also at 10 am. Barb has a wide variety of plants that attract many pollinators. The club is lucky to have Barb as a member. 32 Sil Wells also presented to the club an easy way to transplant plants. She also reviewed how to care for poinsettias for continued blooms in the Fall and Winter. Lucky members took home tomato plants and newly growing poinsettias. Mark your calendar orchid lovers! The meeting May 11 will feature Gene, the Barefoot Gardener, giving advice on how to maintain and care for orchids. The meeting will again be held at the Pavilion at 10 am. The Garden Club meets either the second Thursday or Wednesday of every month, but July. LA TRAVELERS By Laurie Cayton Which Lake Ashton Club has been ongoing longer than any others? The Lake Ashton Travelers were formed 20 years ago and we are starting our 20th year with a bang. The LA Travelers are a group of RV enthusiasts who meet for weekly socials on Tuesday afternoons in the Clubhouse Ballroom at 3:30 pm and plan monthly RV Rallies around Florida. We are the largest Chapter of the Family Motor Coach Association) in the Southeast Region. So far this year the group has attended the Tampa RV Super Show and held a "Party in the Pasture,” a new tradition which finds us in a Winter Haven pasture where we eat, drink, play games and have a ball! The picture below features many of those who were in attendance, as well as some of their rigs. March will find us in Perry, GA at the FMCA's 106th International Convention & RV. Questions on how to join? Contact Membership Coordinator Maureen Sim at 863-605-0309.
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LA SWIM CLUB By Sandy White MAGIC YEARS CLUB By Rose Crognale LA Swim Club is a group of fitness swimmers that do coach-provided swim workouts together several times a week. See page 12 for recent results and pictures from the Senior Games. New participants are always welcome if you can swim two lengths of the indoor pool. For more info email Coach Sandy at sandyw1994@aol.com. LA BELLES By Debbie Platt, Donna Debnar & Anita Thurman Ladies, please join us this month to celebrate that fine Southern tradition, the Kentucky Derby, which runs on May 6. The luncheon will be held at Harborside Restaurant at 2435 7th Street SW, Winter Haven, on April 26 at noon. Celebrate by wearing your Kentucky Derby Hats! Please sign up at the Clubhouse Information Wall before April 19 so we can give the restaurant a final reservation count (maximum is 40). We will order from the menu and receive individual bills. And, we are off to the races! Good Morning Lake Ashton! There will be a meeting on April 17 at 7 pm in the HFC Craft Room for all Disney enthusiasts. All Lake Ashton residents are invited to come. We will be discussing future events and perhaps a game or two. BLACKMOOR/ L ITCHF IELD POTLUCK By Margie Dersham If you are a neighbor living on Blackmoor or Litchfield Loop, bring an appetizer or a dessert that serves eight or more to share April 2 at 6 pm at the HFC Community Center. Cost is $2 per household. BYOB. Come gather to get know each other, have some fun, and make new friends. Paper plates, utensils, and napkins will be provided. Please RSVP to Margie Dersham by calling 352-359-3029 or emailing justrightacres@gmail.com. 34
GENEALOGY CLUB MEETING By Jane Imparl In March our club visited the Bartow Genealogy Library and discovered the wonderful re s o u rc e s available there. Our tour was led by Preston Petermeier who did an outstanding job helping us realize just how important local genealogy libraries can be when we are researching our ancestors. We are planning more "field trips" like this in the future. Our next meeting will take place at the Craft Room in the HFC on April 12 at 2 pm. Come join us to either start your adventure or continue looking for your past family members. All levels of expertise are welcome. SINGLES CLUB By Maureen Ziegler LA Singles is a social group that plans activities for single residents. The group meets monthly on the first Sunday of the month at 2pm in the Clubhouse Ballroom. In March, several new members were welcomed, and the group discussed future lunches, dinners and other activities. Carol Corley is arranging a luncheon at Lavender and Lace in Lake Alfred, details to come. Karen Nelson has reserved A Living Waters Boat cruise of the Chain of Lakes on April 19. The Single Mingle held on the third Thursday of the month will be held in the Pavilion at 4 pm. If you would like to take part in activities with other singles, attend the meeting on April 2. Residents interested in joining a new group should visit the Clubhouse or HFC Activities Desk to obtain the contact information for the facilitator of the club, group, or organization they are trying to join. Recurring events and meetings of clubs, groups and organizations are also included on the calendars for the Clubhouse & HFC inserted into this issue. 35
TUESDAY PARTY BRIDGE By George Rogers February 14: Chris Verges, Pauline Pare, Sil Wells, and Dee Mayne February 21: Pat Sammons, Judy Marine, Lois Dole, and Elaine Inman February 28: Pat Sammons, Pauline Pare, Dick Dole, Don Fuller, and Jeannine Connors March 7: Colette McKee, Liz Leigh, Pat Sammons, Lois Dole, and Pauline Pare Party Bridge is played Tuesdays starting at 1:45 pm in the Clubhouse Card Room. It is open to all levels of bridge players. This is informal play with open discussion of bidding and play of the hands at each table. The goal is to have an enjoyable time while improving our game. Contact George Rogers at georgerogers4321@gmail.com or 419-708-3320 if you wish to play. DUPLICATE BRIDGE By Don Fuller A duplicate bridge game is held every Monday in the Clubhouse Ballroom from 12:45 until approximately 3:30pm. Players of all levels are welcome. Please sign up in advance in the duplicate bridge notebook on the Clubhouse Information Wall. A partner is required. For help finding a partner or for more information contact Don Fuller at dfuller627@yahoo.com. February 13, North-South: 1st Don Fuller & James Ford; 2nd Sonny Robinson & Patricia Foster; 3rd John Sammons & Pat Sammons East-West: 1st Pauline Pare & Nancy Golding; 2nd Keith Stevens & Barb Cassidy; 3rd Tom Fleming & Graham Littlehales February 20, North-South: 1st Ralph Ritter & Karla Gengler; 2nd Marian Oshinsky & Mary Lois Teyssier; 3rd Marion Nelson & Roger Nelson East-West: 1st Janice Fleming & Tom Fleming; 2nd Liz Leigh & Trish Kellar; 3rd Nelda Sedlacek & Pauline Pare February 27, North-South: 1st Don Fuller & Jim Ford; 2nd Marian Oshinsky & Mary Lois Teyssier; 3rd Barb Cassidy & Keith Stevens 36 East-West 1st: Pauline Pare & Sonny Robinson;2nd Ralph Ritter & Karla Kengler; 3rd Jeff Wilkinson & Ann Wilkinson March 3, North-South: 1st Pat Sammons & John Sammons; 2nd Don Fuller & Jim Ford; 3rd Sonny Robinson & Pat Foster East-West: 1st Ralph Ritter & Judy Robertson; 2nd George Rogers & Sandra Burns; 3rd Nelda Sedlacek & Pauline Pare LA DEMOCRATIC CLUB By Paul Ritz The Lake Ashton Democratic Club is holding their monthly meeting on April 6 in-person only at the HFC. Social time with snacks will be from 4 to 4:30 pm. Please bring your own beverage. The in-person General meeting will start at 4:30. The speakers are Barbara Harris and John Hill, the newly-elected First & Second Vice-Chairs, respectively, of the Polk County Democratic Executive Committee (DEC). Barbara and John will discuss ongoing activities of the DEC and ways in which our club can work in concert with the DEC. Email lakeashtondemocraticclub@gmail.com for more information. LA REPUBLICAN CLUB By Gary Johnson, President The Lake Ashton Republican Club will meet April 26 at the Clubhouse. Check-in and social time starts at 3:30 p.m. and the meeting begins at 4 pm. The guest speaker is Robert Goodman, County Citizens Defending Freedom (CCDF) Director, Polk County. Members and their guests are welcome. For more information, please contact Linda Sandel at 863-368-0699, sandelly7@gmail.com. HORSESHOES Residents should reach out to John at 530-894-3856 or betsleale@aol.com if they are interested in playing horseshoes.
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We find that you could better your situation and feel we could offer alternative strategies that better address your needs. 3. We find gaps in your current plan, but don’t feel we are the best fit. We’ll be happy to recommend another advisor who can help. Our team Based in Winter Haven for over 40 years, Thornhill Wealth Management is lead by Conley Thornhill, who has been recognized as a Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisor in Florida from 2020 – 2022. Our team draws upon a century of combined experience to help people care for their family, manage their wealth and create a lasting legacy. Spanning three generations, we are passionate about addressing the financial needs of our clients, their children and their grandchildren. Please visit our website to learn more. 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CIMA® is a registered certification mark of the Investments & Wealth InstituteTM and worldwide. © UBS 2022. All rights reserved. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. Member FINRA/SIPC. CJ-UBS-1291789742 Exp.: 10/31/2023 37 , CIMA® Senior Vice President– Wealth Management conley.thornhill@ubs.com Nikki Rathbun Financial Advisor nikki.rathbun@ubs.com Doug Rathbun Financial Advisor doug.rathbun@ubs.com Thornhill Wealth Management UBS Financial Services Inc. 295 First Street South Winter Haven, FL 33880 863-298-3600 in the United States of America
LAVA AUXILIARY By Chris Graves During the February meeting The Girl Scouts presented to LAVA and LAVA Auxiliary beautiful awards for their support for the troops over the last several years. During the evening another $1,500 was raised (300 boxes of cookies) for the military. All residents are invited to attend the LAVA Auxiliary Meeting April 19 at 6:30 pm near the Clubhouse Stage. We are a group of residents that support our military and have fun doing so. See below for just a few things that we do… • The annual Lake Ashton Craft Show will be held on October 21. This event has raised thousands of dollars for our veterans. At this time, applications are being accepted for the Craft Show. Applications can be picked up at the Clubhouse Activities Office. Once the event is sold out for crafters, you will be placed on a wait list. • Red, white, and blue bows are once again for sale. Last years’ bows sold out quickly and could be seen throughout the community on golf carts and mailboxes to show Lake Ashton’s patriotism. The bows will be for sale at Monday Coffees for $5. • Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, the Mr. Lake Ashton event has been cancelled. • LAVA Auxiliary’s Member Appreciation meeting was celebrated last month with pizza and shared stories. We remembered why we do what we do; to honor our military … the veterans and those currently serving in the military. God Bless America! God Bless our Veterans! LA ROCKERS By Connie Strassberg Happy Easter and Happy Passover to all who celebrate. This year is just flying by and summer is almost here. As part of its Independence Day 38 celebration, Lake Ashton holds a Fourth of July Golf Cart Parade that starts at the HFC and ends at the Clubhouse. This summer LA Rockers has scheduled its fundraiser in coordination with this parade. When celebrants arrive at the Clubhouse after the parade they will be able to either donate and choose a painted rock or participate in our Silent Auction where the highest bidders will win beautiful works of art. In addition to continuing to create kindness rocks to hide throughout our community, LA Rockers will be spending time preparing for our fundraiser. We thank the LA Community for the generosity and support they have shown us in the past, and are looking forward to more of the same. The funds raised will enable us to continue painting and hiding rocks for LA residents to find, enjoy, and share. This is in accordance with our mission statement goal that "one message at just the right moment can change someone's entire day, outlook, and life". LA Rockers will meet twice during April. April 5 will be a "teaching" meeting geared to those who already have experience painting rocks whether with LA Rockers or on their own. This class will be taught by a member. Specifics about the class will be announced on our Facebook page in advance so that members can prepare. The second meeting on April 19 will be a "free paint" meeting and hopefully a lot of fundraiser rocks will be completed. Newcomers will be welcome to the "free paint" meeting where one of our administrators will share an orientation to rock painting with them. After the orientation, the newcomers can sit with one of our more experienced painters and try to paint a rock of their own. Newcomers: Before coming to the meeting, contact MJ Richards (mjmrichards517@gmail.com) or Connie Strassberg (cbs1949@aol.com), so that we know you are coming and can let you know what supplies you need to bring. You don't have to be a serious artist to be a Rocker - we will teach you how to put a smile on someone's face while enjoying a lovely afternoon with a great group of people.
MIND&BODY AMATEUR RADIO TECHNICIAN CLASS The Lake Ashton Amateur Radio Club will be giving an amateur radio Technician Class for anyone in Lake Ashton who wishes to prepare for an exam session on September 5, 12, and 19 from 9:30 am until 12 pm in the HFC Poker Room. There are still a few spaces left in this class but the limit is 10 so they are first come, first served. Anyone wishing to take the class should contact Dave Bishop at DBishop1867@gmail.com The Lake Wales Repeater Association holds test sessions on the first Saturday of each month at the American Red Cross in Winter Haven. They do not take walk-ins so you must pre register for the exam. (email VElwra.us) Before registering for the exam you will need to get a FCC FRN number (visit fcc.gov/ wireless/support/knowledge-base/universal-licensingsystem-uls-resources/getting-fcc-registration.) LA SOCIAL TENNIS 8 to 10:30 am on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at the HFC or Clubhouse courts. No need to sign up, just bring your tennis racquet, tennis balls provided. Contact Debbie Grabb at 863-324-0600 with questions. There is a ball machine stored at the Clubhouse courts; to use, please contact Phil Hines at 863-294-8884. YOGA SHARE Facilitator: Sally Winfrey (863.875.8134 or 316.516.2815) Wednesdays at 8:45 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom. GENTLE YOGA WITH GINA Instructor: Gina Krall Thursdays at 11 am in HFC Sports Court. Yoga positions are shown for every level including first time practicers. Participants are encouraged to honor their bodies at all times. Practiced regularly, 40 yoga improves posture, balance, flexibility, anxiety, stress, and provides a host of other benefits. Chair yoga will be offered if requested. COUNTRY LINE DANCING Instructor: John Moore Beginners: Tuesdays at 7 pm, Thursdays at 9 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom Beginners Plus: Tuesdays at 8 pm, Thursdays at 10 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom IMPROVER LINE DANCING Instructor: Ann Ludwick Thursdays at 1 pm in the HFC Community Center LA DANCE CLASSES Instructor: Connie Wilkinson (Certified DVIDA instructor — 863.875.6728) Learn the American Tango Mondays in April from 4:30 to 5:30 pm in the HFC Community Room. FREE! No Partner needed! FAMI LY ELDER LAW 2023 BOOT CAMP Do the unknowns of the future keep you up at night? If the answer is yes, then this 2023 Wills, Trusts, and Lifetime Planning Boot Camp is for you. This monthly boot camp will teach you how to create a Lifetime Comprehensive Plan. Jason Penrod, Board Certified Elder Law Expert and Financial Advisor will lead you on a step-by-step year-long journey towards “peace of mind”. Next Class: April 24 at 10:30 am Clubhouse Cinema Topic: “Who will receive my assets when I die? Will my family have to probate?” Upcoming Classes: May 22: “What is the best way to avoid probate?” June 26: “Should I have a Trust? What does ‘Funding Your Trust’ mean?” Sign up at the Clubhouse Information Wall.
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TAP JAMMERS Facilitator: Julie Bombard A fun group of tappers who gather weekly on Fridays at 10 am at the Clubhouse Stage to practice steps and combinations. If you tap or have tapped in the past and have knowledge of tap dance, come join the fun! Classes are free. These classes are not intended for the beginning tapper. For more information, contact Julie at jbombard73@gmail.com. FUSED GLASS CLASSES Catch a Wave April 6 from 9 am to Noon at the HFC Craft Room. Cost is $35 to be paid at class. Create a fused glass suncatcher featuring a uniquely beautiful wave. Preregistration is required. All materials are included. Fused Glass Plate & More April 14 from 10 am to 1 pm at the Clubhouse Craft Room. Cost $35 to be paid at the class. Create a 7” square plate, a trivet or 4 coasters from fused glass. Preregistration required. All materials are included. Sign up for classes at the location that the class will be held. BOB ROSS OIL PAINTING Instructor: Kay Lenherr April 8 at 1 pm Clubhouse Craft Room Baby Angel $35 (payable at class) Sign up at the Clubhouse Information Wall by noon on April 7. CERAMIC CHICKS Wednesdays, 8 am to 1 pm, HFC Craft Room Bring your ceramics or purchase in the room. A kiln is available to fire your ceramics. CREATE A CARD Please join the group on April 18 at 10 or noon in the HFC Sports Court to create your own lovely greeting cards. A guest expert will provide instruction, from beginner to expert, all supplies and equipment, and three beautiful cards to take home. No experience needed. Cost is $10. Sign up for a time slot soon at the HFC as reservations go quickly. Join the group for some creative fun! Call Karen at 262-497-3272 with questions. DIY BEADED DAISY CHAIN Celebrate spring by wearing an adorable beaded daisy chain created by you! Join the Art of Beading in the Ballroom on April 12 at 12 pm to learn how to make either a bracelet or necklace. All instructions and supplies will be included for only $10. You don’t want to miss this class, come sign-up at the Clubhouse Activities Office with a check (LACDD), Visa, or MasterCard today! BRUSHES AND BEVERAGES Cr eate your own delightful wall painting, hand-painted by you! For $35, each painter will be receiving stepby-step instructions to create a 16x20 canvas painting and will be supplied with a 16x20 canvas, acrylic paints, and brushes. This event will take place on May 5 at 3 pm in the Clubhouse Ballroom. Stop by the Activities Desk with a check made out to Sheila Vertoli to reserve your spot by May 1. You won’t want to miss this; a maximum of 30 people can sign up but a minimum of 10 people is needed! 42
15th Annual Fine Arts & Photography Show see p. 23 for list of winners
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