Tara Woods Columns - February 2023

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TARA WOODS NEW YEARS EVE PARTY

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PICKLEBALL

The pickleball group is getting larger every day, even with the morning fog.

WELCOME NEW RESIDENTS

WWW.TWHOA.NET

WWW.TWHOA.NET

If you haven’t already registered on the NEW Tara Woods Homeowners Association website, then Check It Out!

If you haven’t already registered on the NEW Tara Woods Homeowners Association website, then Check It Out!

We would like to wish everyone a Happy Valentine’s Day and extend a warm welcome to all our new residents. We hope you are getting settled in and can start enjoying the magic of Tara Woods. If you missed our last Orientation, you are encouraged to come to our next one which will be on Saturday, February 11th, at 10:00 AM in the Clubhouse Meeting Room. We have a wealth of information to share with you. All are welcome.

Jo Bonner

* All from the comfort of your home * 24 hours/day – Every day

* All from the comfort of your home * 24 hours/day – Every day

Latest news on what’s happening in the Tara Woods Community.

Latest news on what’s happening in the Tara Woods Community. Weekly “What’s Happening” email.

Weekly “What’s Happening” email.

Jo resides on Lot #515, 2866 Darwin Street She is a full-time resident from Ohio. Jo has three children, six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Jo is retired from doing office work. In her spare time, she enjoys cards, going to the pool, chair volleyball and darts.

Upcoming Events – Community Event Pictures.

Upcoming Events – Community Event Pictures.

News Articles – Classified Ads.

News Articles – Classified Ads.

Carol and Bob Jenkins

Photos below had their bio’s previously published:

Emergency Information .......and more.

Emergency Information .......and more.

Community information – when you want it!

Community information – when you want it!

COLUMNS STAFF

EDITOR: Linda Elliott 239-560-0768 (lindabluetw@gmail.com)

ASSISTANT: Linda Engel

PHOTOGRAPHY: Lou Dunning, Donna Erhardt

CALENDAR: Janet Daly and Sue Clark

CIRCULATION: Linda Janis and Donna Tribeck, Co-Managers

COMMUNITY DIRECTORY: Haywood Gandy, Manager

CLUBHOUSE SCHEDULER: Janet Daly

COORDINATORS: Agatha Breen, Carolyn Kelsey, Diane Nunn, Diane West, Ed Simko, Julie Wehrung, Maury Miller, Nancy Schoeppner, Pat Dunning, Shari Libby, Stu Berman, and Sheila Harris.

STUFFERS: Barb Simonson, Carol Schnepp, Carol West, Claire Schwinn, Diane West, Gene Dickie, Hilda Dienes, Lou Sapp, Maury Miller, Pam Harrington, Pat Dunning, and Sharon Boehlke.

ALTERNATES: Barb Simonson, Carol Heidemous, Celia Blotkamp, Gerri Linder, and Linda Weibel.

REPORTERS: Reporters will be noted by their bylines at the end of each article.

Chris Olson, Tara Woods Homeowners Association Liaison

To advertise in print, contact: Brion Palmer at 941-312-0665 or email him at BrionPalmer@yahoo.com.

Contributing writers are acknowledged with bylines accompanying their submissions. Attribution for photos are not included unless supplied. We sincerely thank everyone for their contributions. Your articles help showcase the strong and diverse community that makes up Tara Woods. The Columns is published monthly from October through May. Summer issues are condensed: June/July and August/September.

All ads are subject to the approval of the publisher. It is the responsibility of the party placing any ad for publication in The Columns to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance with town, county and state codes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property.

DISCLAIMER: Please be aware that when you hire an unlicensed/uninsured person to do work at your home, you accept the liability. Island Visitor Publishing is not responsible for claims made by advertisers.

Carol and Bob reside on Lot #303, 2846 Tara Lakes Circle. They are full-time residents from Connecticut. They have two children and four grandchildren. Carol is a retired Vice President of American Bank. Bob is a retired Postmaster and also is a retired fire chief from Clinton. In her spare time, Carol enjoys the pool, aerobics, and cards. In his spare time, Bob enjoys the pool, horseshoes, and darts.

Joan Riggenbach

Joan resides on Lot #38, 19500 Charleston Circle. She is a full-time resident from Illinois. Joan has three children and two grandchildren. Joan is retired from the Bonita Bay Country Club. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling and is enjoying her retirement.

Sue and Phil Yenrick

Sue and Phil reside on Lot #431, 19731 Pandora Circle. They are part-time residents from Ohio. They have three children and three grandchildren. Sue is a retired fragrance representative for Givenchy stores. Phil is an Army veteran of twenty-eight years and worked at American Red Cross for twenty-one years. In her spare time, Sue enjoys line dancing, aerobics, and bicycling. In his spare time, Phil enjoys tennis and bicycling.

WELCOME TO TARA WOODS,

Barbara Krilivsky and Linda Kasdorf, co-chairs of the Welcome Committee

FROM THE BOARD ROOM by Lou

Your Homeowners Association, working together with Hometown America, has been making good progress in building back and improving after Hurricane Ian. Some issues can be and are addressed quickly, while others require more time and follow-up. Members can track the progress on our www.twhoa.net website under ‘Community Improvement’. We also thank the residents who take the time to complete and submit ‘Contact Us’ on the website with the issues, concerns, and feedback. Your input drives the meetings with the Manager. As you might know, your Homeowners Association meets monthly with the Manager with an agenda-driven meeting. In addition, the Board meets monthly throughout the year to provide continuity and continuum. The Board voted recently to conduct Homeowner Meetings each month throughout the year to keep all residents updated on issues affecting us here in Tara Woods. Resident participation is key to a strong Homeowners Association and Community. If you are volunteering, we all thank you and appreciate you. If you would like to volunteer or just find out more about it, contact me.

Your Tara Woods Homeowners Association met on Monday, January 9th, for the annual meeting and voting on Directors, By-laws updates and the 2023 budget. The By-laws updates and the 2023 budget passed.

The members elected four Directors: Lou Dunning, Chris Olson, Dennis Purks, and Andrea Snyder. After the meeting, all the Directors convened to select the officers for

2023. Results of that meeting are as follows: Lou Dunning, President; Peter Krilivsky, Vice President; Chris Olson, Recording Secretary; Dennis Purks, Treasurer; Barbara Werner-Lubick, Membership Secretary; Lynn Lessmiller, Carol Schnepp, and Andrea Snyder, Directors at Large. Sue Cook will be leaving the Board. We thank Sue for her years of service on the Board and her unending, unwavering perseverance on behalf of all residents to make their lives in Tara Woods better. The HOA-sponsored Opportunity Fair on January 28th was a huge success. It showcased what Tara Woods has to offer for our lifestyle, something for everyone. We thank each and every one of the over thirty groups who participated. It shows that the fabric of Tara Woods is driven by dedicated volunteers. Special thanks to the committee who organized and directed the Opportunity Fair, Pat Dunning, Sue Cook, Janet Daly, Celia Blotkamp, Judy Girty, JoAnne Glandorf, Sharon Gritzmacher, and Linda Kasdorf.

DID YOU KNOW THAT – As a member of the Homeowners Association you receive full access to the Homeowners website (www. twhoa.net). In addition, you receive the most current news, articles about the Club and Group events written by each group, Monday’s What’s Happening, email blast with vital information; you can see and list items for sale, and more. Want to stay up to date? Sign up for full benefits.

Lou Dunning, President, 239-240-5847, loudunning2@gmail.com

ATTENTION VETERANS!!

Many of you are not aware of USAA Auto and Home Insurance specifically designed for veterans AND THEIR FAMILY MEMBERS: spouses, brothers, sisters, children, grandchildren etc. I can attest to the fact that the savings are substantial (for myself and my family) since becoming a member several years ago.

You just need to call:

1-800-531-8722 to enroll. YOU SERVED NOW YOU CAN SAVE!

Sam Topping, U.S. Army

FMO

TARA WOODS HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION NEWS

Now that the holidays are behind us, except for February being Valentinus’s Day, FMO wants to remind us not to let our guard down regarding unsolicited phone calls. This is especially true of phone scams. The following information has been taken from the FMO 60th Anniversary Edition. FMO encourages us to set the privacy settings on our social media accounts so that only people you know can access your posts and photos.

If you get a call supposedly from your grandchild that they have been arrested, are in a hospital, or are in police custody – immediately hang up the phone and contact the grandchild or other family member who will be able to confirm or deny the initial call.

Scammers plead with you to keep the situation a secret precisely so you will not try to confirm.

If you speak to someone who claims to be a police officer, do call the relevant law enforcement agency to verify the person’s identity and any information they have given you.

Trust your instincts. If something does not feel right, it probably is not.

Do not drop your guard because the number on your caller ID looks familiar. Scammers use technological tricks to make it appear that they are calling from a trusted number.

RED HAT LADIES

Come join us on Tuesday, February 7th, at The Standard, at Sabal Springs, 3410 Clubview Dr., North Fort Myers. The sign-up sheet is on the board in the Clubhouse. We have lunch,

Do not volunteer information. Wait for the caller, if he or she is claiming to be your grandchild, to mention their name.

Do not let the caller rush you into making a decision.

Do not send cash, wire money, or provide gift cards.

Do not panic, no matter how dire the grandchild’s or any family member’s situation sounds.

You can report fraud to the FTC at 877-3824357. If you sent money by Western Union, call the company’s fraud hotline (800-448-1492) or Money Gram (800-926-9400). If the transfer has not been paid, you may be able to stop it and get your money back.

The Tara Woods FMO Committee is saddened on the passing of Bill Parker who was a member of the Committee for over five years. Bill passed on January 3rd and will be sorely missed by the Committee. Condolences to the family and may Bill rest in peace

To become an FMO member please either fill out the application on the back bulletin board and bring it to me at Lot #670, 19267 Potomac Circle, or go online to www.fmo.org. Dues are $25.00 per year or three years for $65.

Thank you and happy Valentine’s Day.

Stuart Berman

cocktails, fun and a social. Hope to see some new faces. Any questions, call me, Patty Sparany, at 239-652-3869.

TENNIS ASSOCIATION:

Submitted by Linda Engel

Note: There is a new sport that is played on a tennis court; it is called Bumbee Ball. (Don’t worry, there are no extra lines drawn on our tennis courts.) There is a separate article about the game of Bumbee Ball in this issue of The Columns.

For more information on Bumbee Ball, you can contact Rod Dolin at 860-918-3900 or rdfind@yahoo.com or contact Debbie Doty at 937-248-8125 or debbiepickleball@gmail. com.

TENNIS ASSOCIATION

We now have had several Round Robins and I hope everyone has enjoyed themselves. Those who have not participated should give it a try; it’s a fun day for everyone of all skill levels.

There is also weekly open tennis on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday mornings from 9:00 until 10:30 AM. Just show up at the courts and play; everyone of all skill levels is welcome. This is a great way to meet people with the same interests and to have fun. ~

Ed Sandre

OPEN TENNIS

We have some new tennis players now living in Tara Woods and we are happy that they have joined us to play at our Open Tennis days. It is always good to see new people on the tennis courts.

If you have an interest in tennis, stop by the courts and check us out. ~

Linda Engel

BUMBEE BALL

TENNIS LEAGUES

Men’s League White Team – Stallions

It’s great to have the regular season started and finally under way. Play has been exciting. With two White Teams this year, there will always be a tennis match in Tara Woods on Tuesdays at 1:30 PM.

The first match between our two teams ended in a draw at 3-3. We can’t wait for the rematch.

As always, the players appreciate our fans coming out and supporting our teams. ~

Ed Sandre

White Team – Mustangs

The Mustangs began their season on Tuesday, January 3rd, competing as the home team against the Stallions, the other White Team from Tara Woods. It was a very competitive match; the final score for the 6 sets ended up with 3 wins and 3 losses.

I must thank the Tara Woods community for the strong turnout to watch this match. It is so gratifying to see the support for both teams, and I know the Mustangs team, as a whole, enjoyed the competition and camaraderie between both teams.

~ Roger Rafferty

Blue Team – Tigers

The current roster for the Blue Team consists of Captain Frank Neveu and Co-Captains Andy Hardy and Gene Dickie. Other players on the team are Ray Flynn, Dick Heffron, Bill Nothnagel, Don Swartz, and Phil Yenrick. Subs include Howie Gross, Tony Pinelli,

BUMBEE BALL IS PLAYED ON THE TENNIS COURTS WITH 4 TO 6 PLAYERS ON EACH SIDE OF THE NET. IT IS PLAYED WITH A FOAM BALL, SLIGHTLY LARGER THAN A REGULAR TENNIS BALL. IT IS A NON-COMPETITIVE SPORT AND REQUIRES NO EXPERIENCE. YOU ONLY NEED TENNIS SHOES AND A RACQUET.

General Rules:

1. The serve is taken from anywhere behind the service line.

2. The serve is hit underhand, with the ball either being tossed in the air or bounced on the court.

3. You only score when your team is serving. When the team that is serving misses a hit, the serve goes to the opposing team and that team rotates clockwise with a new server.

4. A serve is considered fair when it lands anywhere inside the opposing team’s doubles court.

5. The serve must bounce once before being returned.

6. If the ball touches the net on the serve and lands fair, it is served over.

7. When the ball is in play, each team tries to return the ball back over the net on either the first, second, or third hit.

8. The ball may be allowed to bounce once between each hit, or it may be returned in the air at any point, but the ball cannot bounce over the net.

9. The same person cannot hit the ball twice in succession.

10. The ball cannot be played off the net.

11. Winning team is the first to obtain ten points by a margin of at least two points.

12. Any ball hit overhand to the opposite side must be done with the trajectory of an arc, i.e., no smashes.

For more information on Bumbee Ball, contact Rod Dolin at 860-918-3900 or rdfind@yahoo.com or contact Debbie Doty at 937-248-8125 or debbiepickleball@gmail.com.

and Rod Dolin.

Our next home games are February 2nd against Herons Glen, and February 9th against Lake Fairways.

Come on out and watch us play! We had a great turnout for our first game. Thank you!

~ Gene Dickie

Women’s League Women’s Team – Angels

The Tara Woods Angels tennis season in the SWIFT league officially started January 5th. Our team had a bye. Our first game was played on Thursday morning, January 12th, at Del Tura.

In the meantime, in addition to practicing, we had several exhibition matches.

A few players have been added to our full-time roster, which gives us more depth.

Everyone is excited to finally get our season under way and play some matches against the other six teams in the league.

Our team’s playing schedule is posted on the Tennis Bulletin Board. Team standings will be posted weekly. ~ Mary Sandre

ROUND ROBINS

Our Round Robins are held on the fourth Saturday of the month starting at 9:00 AM.

The last two Round Robins are February 25th and March 25th.

The monthly Round Robins take the place of Open Tennis on those dates.

PICKLEBALL

Attention all Pickleball Players!!

Don’t miss The First Annual PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT

The Tara Woods Pickleball Group is pleased to announce The First Annual Pickleball Tournament on Saturday, March 4th, starting at 9:00 AM. All skill levels are invited. Entry fee is $3.00 for Group Members, $5.00 for non-members, and includes lunch.

All Teammates will be randomly selected one week before the tournament. The format will be double elimination, with losers in the first round moving into a parallel grouping so everyone still has a chance to win!

Registration will close on Saturday, February 25th. To register, call Jennifer Widener at 239-823-0146 or Danielle Carnes at 239-322-8599.

Volunteers are also needed for scorekeeping, judging, and other tournament tasks. There’s plenty to do even if you don’t want to play or while you’re waiting for your next game!

To join the Tara Woods Pickleball Group, please contact Bruce Lubich at 410-409-5873 (after February 21st) or Louise Patterson at 508-672-2141. Membership in the Tara Woods Pickleball Group is $5.00 per year.

SUNSHINE AND SYMPATHY

Deaths:

Anita Thomas passed away on December 22nd. She lived on Kara Circle.

Bill Parker passed away on January 3rd. He lived on Woodfield Circle.

Joanne Bigold. She lived on Potomac Circle.

Remember these people in your thoughts and prayers, and please let me know of any medical news in your neighborhood.

NANCY WUEBBELER 239-245-7575 – nkw4@comcast.net

TARA WOODS CERT SERVING OUR COMMUNITY

Since the visit to North Fort Myers, and Tara Woods, by Hurricane Ian, your TW CERT group has been working to improve our advance preparations and post-event responses to improve our ability to help our Tara Woods community if something like that happens again (heaven forbid!). We have debriefed among ourselves and shared ideas, successes, and yes, some failures with CERT groups from other communities and the North Fort Myers Fire Department (NFMFD).

The biggest lesson has been the need for improved communications. That includes our communications with the NFMFD in advance and sharing it with the community, with each CERT member, with other CERT groups, and with TW management. We have invested in walkie-talkies to communicate with each other during and after an event when cell service might be spotty or out. We are also creating education plans to help you get ready for the next event. Plans are being developed to share information among ourselves and with the community after the event to help as many community residents as possible. We hope that these tools and plans are never again needed, but if they are, we

expect to be prepared.

Look for more community-oriented education and projects in 2023. NFMFD still has some TW residents on their list for free smoke alarms. Fire prevention and fire safety is a continuing focus.

Consider how you can serve your Tara Woods community by joining your TW CERT team. All skillsets are helpful. More training classes are being scheduled, including one in the evening/ weekend to accommodate those who want to train but work daytime hours.

For more information about TW CERT, contact Barbara Werner-Lubich at barbara. wernerlubich@gmail.com or Andrea Snyder at asnyder959@comcast.net.

ENTERTAINING NEWS

So, Ladies and Gentlemen… I have a deal for you. You all come to the Clubhouse either one of these three choices… 7:00 PM on Friday, March 10th, or 7:00 PM, on Saturday, March 11th, or 2:00 PM, Sunday, March 12th, and you will get the opportunity to be entertained by fellow community members. You will see not one, but two plays that will make you forget your own troubles at least for a couple of hours. In order for you to complete your part of the deal, you must donate $10.00 to the Entertainers and get a ticket in return that will allow you to walk through the doors to the Clubhouse to finish our deal. You will scream out “What a bargain!” and I can understand your enthusiasm, but please

hold off on the screaming until the intermission.

These tickets will be available at Saturday Morning Coffee starting on February 11th, and before Bingo on Tuesday nights. These tickets will also be available at the door. The doors open one-half hour before show time. Please call me if you are curious about any of the above. Thanks for taking advantage of this great deal; you won’t be sorry.

“Theatre is so endlessly fascinating because it’s so accidental. It’s so much like life” ~

Pat Dunning, Stage

Arthur Miller

MIDWEST CLUB 60’S, 70’S AND 80’S DANCE/PARTY

Happy New Year and Hello to all Midwest Club Members. Hope you spend Valentine’s Day with your special someone and eat lots of chocolate. I know I will.

Our February Meeting for the Midwest Club will be on Friday, February 17th, from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM. This is going to be a Triple BAR themed meal. Our menu themes will be a Potato Bar and Salad Bar with all the toppings, such as extra butter (we learned from the last potato bar), sour cream, cheese, bacon bits, chives, as well as ham and croutons for you to make a salad as well. There will be an Ice Cream Bar for dessert with typical chocolate sauce, nuts, cherries, and whipped cream. The cost for this meeting will be $5.00. Tickets will go on sale January 31st at Tuesday Bingo, February 4th at Saturday Morning Coffee, February 7th at Tuesday Bingo, and the FINAL DAY of sale will be February 11th at Saturday Morning Coffee.

Also, get your thinking cap on and remember all genres of music from 1956 to 1965.

~ Vicki Hoard

NEW ENGLAND CLUB

Thank you to all New England Club Members who attended, as well as helped with set-up and clean-up for the successful New Year’s Eve party which we hosted. Your volunteerism is deeply appreciated!!

Other than hosting the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s dance on Saturday, February 4th, for Tara Woods, we don’t have anything on our calendar until Saturday, March 4th, which is our Welcome Spring & Sports Night Party!!

More info, along with sign-ups, will be posted on or about Monday, February 6th. Hope to see you all at everything!

~ Judy Machnicz

New York/New Jersey Club Meetings/Events 2023

Save the Dates!

Friday, February 3rd: 4:00 PM – Nite at the Races

– Hosted by Janet Daly & Club

Saturday, March 4th: 5:00 PM – Hosted by Ken & Carol, Mary & Bill, Fred & Jan

Saturday, April 22nd: 12:00 noon – Out to Lunch

– Coordinated by Stu & Belle

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4TH

HOSTED BY THE NEW ENGLAND CLUB

DOORS OPEN AT 6:30 PM

MUSIC BEGINS AT 7:00 PM

TICKETS: $10.00 BYOB AND SNACKS

NO TICKETS AVAILABLE AT DOOR

DESSERT AND COFFEE PROVIDED

MUSIC: DJ-JOHN’S MOBILE MUSIC

MID-ATLANTIC SOCIAL CLUB NEWS

We welcome Tara Woods residents from Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and friends from all over the country. Check out our postings on the bulletin board in the Clubhouse for contact information and upcoming events. If you have any questions about our Club, please contact one of the officers (names posted on each newsletter).

We had a wonderful meeting in December – we toasted in the holiday season in our pajamas. Many couples dressed in matching jammies, and others just looked so cute in their pjs and slippers. It was a relaxing gathering with great appetizers, and many toasts were made – some funny and some heartfelt.

The Club postponed their Christmas/Hanukkah party until January, after all the chaos of the holidays subsided. We met at Herons Glen for a late lunch celebration.

Many thanks to those who helped with the Mid-Atlantic table at the January Yard Sale, especially Barb Simonson who chaired the activity. From baked goods to all the other “stuff”, the Club peddled their wares on a chilly Saturday morning. ~ Sue Clark

NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY CLUB

Our next get-together will be Saturday, March 4th, at 5:00 PM and will feature our famous Cuban Sandwiches.

More details and sign-up list will be available after the Nite at the Races on February 3rd. Any questions, call Bill Nothnagel at 732-822-6300 or Ken Clark at 609-432-1383.

~ Bill Nothnagel

Coming to Tara Woods

Friday, February 3rd

Sponsored by the New York/New Jersey Club

Admission: $2.00

Tickets available at Saturday Morning Coffee and Tuesday Night Bingo – and at the door

Doors Open at 4:00 PM

1st Race at 5:00 PM

Food available: Hot Dogs, Pizza, Chips and Soft Pretzels

*Bring Your Own Beverage*

Race Tickets: $1.00/Horse Social Raffle

10 Races Scheduled plus Daily Double

These are actual races filmed at undisclosed tracks. All Tara Wood’s residents, renters, friends, and family are welcome!

Questions? Contact: Janet Daly 239-567-2285 janetdaly@yahoo.com See the poster in the Clubhouse for more details.

“A Nite at the Races”

Tara Woods Community Yard Sale

It was a sunny, but chilly morning for the annual Tara Woods Community Yard Sale.

Donations to the North Fort Myers Fire Department

Thanks to Tara Woods’ generosity, the North Fort Myers Fire Department and Ambulance service received $1,500.00 in Publix gift cards for the six shifts that worked Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

IMPORTANT NEW 2023 TARA WOODS RESIDENT DIRECTORY NEWS

I am pleased to announce that we received and approved the 2023 Resident Directory proofs, and have scheduled printing and the delivery of the directories to the Tara Woods residents. My goal is to begin distribution of the Tara Woods 2023 Resident Directory the week of January 24th or possibly sooner. At the time of this submission to The Columns we do not have a specific date when the directories will be delivered to me and the community.

We will make every effort to distribute them as soon as they arrive. Updated distribution information will be posted on the TWHOA website. Each occupied household in Tara Woods will receive one copy of the directory.

All TWHOA members and residents wishing to have timely and accurate resident information published in the directory must submit changes to me by email to: haywood.gandy@gmail.com or utilize Resident Directory Information Form on page 27 in the directory.

The form can also be dropped off at the TWHOA Office in the Clubhouse. TWHOA members who update their information in the TWHOA website Resident Directory should also communicate their updated information to me by email to: haywood.gandy@gmail.com.

Please include your Lot #, Name, Address, Telephone Number(s), and Home State(s).

Our goal is to provide residents with timely updates to the 2023 Resident Directory. Updated resident directory information is published in each edition of The Columns which is available on the TWHOA.net website.

The additions, corrections and deletions information listed below have been incorporated in or removed from the new 2023 Resident Directory. Thank you to the residents who provided me with updated information at the annual meeting.

And as a funny side note, I just received information about five new incoming residents to the community. So, I guess I don’t get a day off. The 2024 directory process has started. I would like to say “thank you” to everyone for their dedication in helping to make Tara Woods a fun community to reside in.

SUNSETS Photos by Keever Shropshire

Resident of Tara Woods • LIC#CAC1820946

A DAY OF CARING FINAL REPORT FOR 2022

On December 21st, 2022, I helped deliver the final checks to the Charities you helped so much this year with your donations.

You helped give to the ninety residents of the Fort Myers Rescue Mission, who were homeless and working towards becoming productive members of society. Your donations helped with the Christmas meal.

You helped some of the 7,000 people who come monthly to the Elizabeth K. Galeana Mission in Fort Myers for extra food. Some of them received vouchers for turkey or chicken for their Christmas meal.

You helped “Wake Up America” deliver food from local Publix stores, which would otherwise be discarded, to over sixteen food pantries in our area.

You gave more this year than ever before. Our Quarter Auction is great fun and has proved to be a perfect fundraiser for The Day of Caring. Again, many thanks to Sue Cook and Judy & Rich Girty.

The final report from all three Parks. Never before were we the top contributors, and we are the smallest park.

Pine Lakes donated: $6,700.00

Lake Fairways donated: $3,786.00

Tara Woods donated: $6,706.90

Totaling: $17,192.90

OUTSTANDING JOB, TARA WOODS

Blessings to all for a Wonderful New Year in 2023

Your “A Day of Caring” Chairperson, ~ Chris Olson

• PRESSURE WASH OF DRIVEWAYS, ROOF, POOL DECKS, & DOCKS

• INTERIOR PAINTING

• EXTERIOR PAINTING

• WALL REPAIRS

• STAINING OF DOCKS, POOL DECKS, & DRIVEWAYS

CONTACT US FOR A FREE ESTIMATE

Phone: 239-465-6975 / 786-724-6348

Email: advancedpainting239@gmail.com

Website: www.advancedpainting239.com

CLUBHOUSE MINISTRIES

For new residents of Tara Woods and existing residents too, the Clubhouse Ministries invite you to join one of their Bible study classes, which are held in the Clubhouse Meeting Room every Tuesday morning at 10:00 AM. These meetings give you an opportunity to make new friends as you study the Scriptures in relaxed and enjoyable surroundings. We are a non-denominational group. No need to make reservations, folks! Just stop by any Tuesday morning at 10:00 AM. Come join us! ~ Ann Scott

SPORTS, EXERCISE, and ACTIVITIES

TAI CHI AT TARA WOODS

Classes meet year-round Tuesdays and Thursdays

11:00 AM - 12:30 PM in the Clubhouse

Beginners welcome!

11:00 – 11:00 beginners and skill building practice

11:30 –11:50 warm up exercises (everyone)

11:50 –12:00 water break

12:00 –12:30 set practice

Taught by Tony Fettig, an experienced Tai Chi practitioner and instructor. Open to women and men, beginner and experienced students. Come to class with a water bottle and appropriate footwear.

To sign up or for more info, including necessary footwear, contact: Barbara Werner-Lubich 410-409-5874 or Deb Nespolo 401-309-1136

ACTIVITIES, ACTIVITIES

I hope you took time to enjoy the many activities displayed at the Opportunity Fair in January. Now, it is time to participate in the clubs, sports, crafts, and games here in Tara Woods. There was quite a response to the suggestions for new events, and I am working diligently to plan tours, theater, and sport events.

One new event will be chair volleyball to be debuted at the Mardi Gras Party. The HOA is also planning some special events for the community. Come to Saturday Morning Coffee and the monthly meetings to hear details.

Keep an eye on the corner bulletin board for ideas and to sign up for these events. If you enjoy planning as well as participating, please contact me. I want to form a committee to help make your suggestions a reality!

It takes all of us to ensure the Magic of Tara Woods!

Celia Blotkamp TWHOA Activities Coordinator

To stay informed of events in Tara Woods:

- Read the posters on the bulletin board in the Clubhouse.

- Check the Clubhouse bulletin boards for meeting and event information and sign-up sheets.

- Come to Saturday Morning Coffee!

- Read The Columns and check the Calendar.

- Sign on to the Tara Woods website, www.twhoa.net, to be kept informed of all current events and more!

- Check out page 5 of the Tara Woods Community Resident Directory to see all the opportunities to keep you busy in Tara Woods, with the contact people for each one listed if you have questions.

- Page 4 of the Directory lists the contact people for specific responsibilities under the Board of Directors that you can contact with any questions.

SHUFFLEBOARD

IIf anyone is interested in playing Horse Collar on Mondays at 10:00 AM, the cost is $1.00 per player (to be given away as prizes). Anyone can play. The Tuesday and Friday leagues began in January 2021. Call Ken Atkinson at 815-970-0467 if you have any questions.

EXERCISE FOR SENIORS

CURTIS IS BACK & HE IS LOOKING FOR YOU!!

Now is the time to get up and get going again. This is a total body workout that can be done standing or sitting down. It includes stretching, balance, cardio and light weights.

Give it a try - nothing to lose and may even gain some muscle.

Classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays in the Clubhouse at 8:00 AM. Any questions, please contact Barb Simonson at 541-840-4430.

Additional classes are held Wednesdays and Saturdays at 10:00am. Any questions, please contact Celia Blotkamp at 703-863-2973.

WATER VOLLEYBALL!

Thursdays & Sundays 1:00 – 3:00 PM

Come join us in this fun, non-competitive sport. Meet new/old friends, get a few laughs while exercising. No experience necessary.

Hope to see you there. If questions, contact Barb Simonson at 541-840-4430.

WATER AEROBICS

8:00 AM Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays.

Air temperature must be 62 degrees by 8:00 AM. Use ABC News to check temperature.

This is a great exercise for men and women with less stress on your joints and muscles. The class consists of stretching, cardio and water weights. If you have them, bring a noodle, stretch bands and water weights.

If questions, contact Judy Brda at 239-731-1797.

ENTERTAINMENT AROUND TARA WOODS

BINGO AT TARA WOODS

Be one of the winners at our Tuesday night BINGO. And you can win more than once during the night!

I f your eyesight isn’t as good as it once was, now you can play too. We have really BIG game packs and “Specials” that are 8 ½” x 11” with 2” numbers.

No additional charge for the ticket that can make you the “King” or the “Queen” for the night and earn you even more money on all game sheets.

Game packets are sold with either 6 game squares per sheet or 9 game squares. The “Special” game papers have 3 game squares. Buy as many as you’d like!

Our Tuesday night BINGO session consists of 14 regular games and 6 “Special” games

We also have “Hot Ball” prizes of $50.00 or more and a “Social” raffle. Sales STOP at 6:45 PM. Come join the fun.

PICKLEBALL

To all new and existing residents. Looking to get some exercise and have some fun at the same time?

Come join us for Pickleball! It’s one of the fastest growing sports in the U.S. Current open play times are at 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM every day. Come down to the courts and say hello. We would be happy to teach you how to play the game. There are paddles available in the storage container in front of the courts and the balls are located on the door of each court. Proper footwear is required. Join in on the fun! For further information contact

Deb (401) 309-1136 / debra.nespolo@gmail.com

Bruce (410) 409-5873 / bruce@brucelubichcpa.com

Alice (313) 220-0622 / gowings2429@sbcglobal.net

Louise (508) 672-2141 / lcpatter46@gmail.com

LINE DANCING

Join us for great exercise and lots of fun. Starting in November. Tuesday for experienced dancers starts at 9:30 AM. Friday for beginners starts at 10:00 AM. Barb Goodhue 517-404-8063.

BOCCE

Mondays at 3:00 PM Tuesdays at 9:00 AM

No need to sign up. Don’t need a partner.

New teams chosen every week ~ Easy to learn.

Questions: call Rudy Diaz 239-347-7934

Additional time: Tuesdays at 3:30.

TENNIS ANYONE?

Join other tennis players every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday from 9:00-10:30 AM for friendly Tennis.

BUNCO

Ladies and Gentlemen, come join us every Sunday at 7:00 PM in the Card Room. Cost is $3.00.

Will you have the first Bunco or the last, or the most? Will you have the most wins, or the most losses? If you do, the prize money will be yours! Come join the fun. Questions: call Polly Brown 239-246-2391.

PING PONG

Looking for Players!

Remember those days playing ping pong as a kid? You can still play today! Please join us on Thursdays from 1:00 to 3:00 PM in the Clubhouse. For further information contact Norm Libby at 239-246-3510.

AGGRAVATION

Meets in the Clubhouse Card Room at 6:30 PM on Monday and Thursday nights. The game consists of 11 hands and is easy to learn. Eight quarters gets you in. Come join the fun and play a great card game.

MAH JONGG

Come join the Mah Jongg group. Do not know how to play? We teach the first three Mondays of the month. We have a great time. Come & join us on Mondays 12:30-3:00 PM.

The Happy Ladies of Mah Jongg.

CRIBBAGE

There’s a “new” game at Tara Woods. If you hear someone say, “fifteen two fifteen four” and you don’t think they’ve lost a screw or two, come and join us in the Card Room every Wednesday at 2:00 PM for a few games of Cribbage. The arrangement is fairly flexible since Cribbage can be played by 2 or 3 or 4 players. Just be there by 2 PM. Cards, cribbage boards and fun will be provided.

Contact Ann Millette 239-543-2954

POKER, ANYONE?

LADIES! DO YOU PLAY POKER? How long has it been since you’ve played with friends? Did you know there’s a game every Monday night at the Clubhouse just for the ladies? Well, we really don’t have a “No Boys Allowed!!!” Rule, but men usually don’t like to play with wild cards and we do. But they’re welcome to play as long as they are willing to “play like girls”. It is most likely the least stressful and least expensive poker you can play around here! It’s a good night to socialize with the ladies and make new friends with the girls who like to play poker. The stakes are very low. Call Polly Brown, 239-246-2391, if you’d like to join us – she’ll fill you in on the details or answer any questions you may have.

MEN’S POKER

Wednesday in Meeting Room at Clubhouse. 2:00 - 5:00 PM. Contact George D’Alessandro , 239-543-8492.

BRIDGE

The Bridge group is looking for bridge players.

We meet on Tuesdays at 12:30 PM in the Card Room.

Call Beth Ferris at 239-543-6295, Mary Green 239-800-3837 or Pauline Young at 239-997-5984 first if you are interested in playing with this friendly group. We’d like to have you join us. Beth Ferris

HAND AND FOOT CARD CLUB

Come join the group for a fun-filled afternoon of cards! We meet on Fridays at 1:30 PM in the Card Room. Don’t know how to play the game? EASY! We will teach you! It is easy to learn.

Questions: contact Polly Brown at 239-246-2391

GAME NIGHT

Every Friday night at 7:00 p.m.

Different games can be played (All are easy to Learn)

LEFT – CENTER – RIGHT (dice- 3-coin buy-in) (winner-take-all each game)

CONTRACT RUMMY (similar to Aggravation) (6 quarter buy-in) 31 (card game) (3 dime buy-in each game) (winner-take-all each game)

For more information call Polly Brown at 239-246-2391.

CERAMICS

Mondays – 12:00 Noon

Ceramics is held in the Ceramics Room by the Tennis Courts.

We are there every Monday at 12:00 Noon. For more information and for firing of the kiln please contact Maury Miller, 239-365-9859.

We hope you will come and participate in making ceramics with us. Come join the fun.

SHUFFLEBOARD

If anyone is interested in playing Horse Collar on Mondays at 10:00 AM, the cost is $1.00 per player (to be given away as prizes). Anyone can play. The Tuesday and Friday leagues began in January 2021. Call Ken Atkinson at 815-970-0467 if you have any questions.

HORSESHOES

Every Friday at 1:00 PM At the Horseshoe Pits. Come join us for fun and laughs.

Mondays and Fridays at 10:00 AM in the Clubhouse Living Room. For any questions, call Marilyn Workman at 239-543-1168.

YOGA

DID YOU MARK YOUR CALENDAR?

You are all invited to a FREE Estate Planning Seminar hosted by the Neighbors Helping Neighbors Group and your HOA. The event is scheduled for Thursday, February 16th, at 6:30 PM. The guest speaker is attorney Jeffrey Attia, Esquire. Attorney Attia is licensed in the State of Florida and is a specialist in Wills, Trusts, Healthcare Surrogacy, etc.

Even if you have a current trust, living will, etc., especially if you had the documents drawn up out of state, this is a seminar you don’t want to miss. It is suggested that you review any legal estate documents periodically to make sure that they comply with Florida Law, so here is an

opportunity to find out if your documents need to be reviewed.

Refreshments (Pizza) will be served so we need you to reserve a spot to ensure that we have enough food. A sign-up sheet is under the Neighbors Helping Neighbors Poster on the bulletin board. If you can’t make it to the Clubhouse to sign up, call Peter Krilivsky at 603493-8891 or Eileen Robinson at 315-297-2793 to make your reservation.

Hope to see you at the Clubhouse on Thursday, February 16th at 6:30 PM. Bring your questions.

BREAKING NEWS - CANS TO THE CURB

Put your aluminum cans out to the curb on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month by 9:00 am. Our dedicated volunteers will pick them up. Why? – Revenue from the cans help fund your homeowners association.

Recycling by “cans to the curb” it is good for us and our environment.

Cans to the curb!!!

BIRTHDAYS IN FEBRUARY

1 Jesse Lane, Carol Shields

2 Mike Gagnier, Dean Schaftlein

3 Harry Downs, John Moynihan, Wendy Nichols, John Trebish, Liz Wilson

4 Dorothy Andrus, Tom Bigold, Lynne Chilberg, Arnie Gaudet, Marie Peidlow, Steve Rigsby

5 Sue Finn, Toni Rae, Ken Weiss

6 Peggy Barr, Clint Boyer, Violet Raymond, Michelle Selvato, Norm Wing

8 Dave Gamble, Carol Malatesta

9 Craig Baker, Peggy Gasmire, Cathy Laurin, Dianne LeMay

10 Linda Kasdorf, Lynn Lessmiller, Bill Taylor

11 Mardette Alexander, Janice Johnston, “Chickie” Notaro

12 Vera Day, Alan Roncek, Paul Zimmerman

14 Liz Neumann, Ed Sparany, John Van Sleet

15 Doreen Choquette, Tracy Furnivall

16 Tony Porto

17 Josee Choiniere

18 Jim Choquette, Louise Phillips

19 Henrietta La Liberty

21 Renee Nadeau

22 John Olson

23 Gary Duncklee

24 Mary Burke

25 Kandice Chadwell

27 Georgi Burns, Herb Gales, Milty Katz, Bob Snyder

28 Jon Porter

29 Carole Neveu

ANNIVERSARIES IN FEBRUARY

1 Audrey & Jerry Coon, 65 Yrs.

4 Louise & Pat Patterson

6 Connie Lessard & Andy Hardy

10 Rhonda & Craig Skipper

11 Marie & Mike Peidlow

13 Judy & Richard Binkowski

14 Gigi & Glen Fisher, Brenda & Mike Girty, Diane Ladlie & Richard Jones, Donna & Tom Mallinson,

Deb & Don Skelton, Sue & Bill Sobkowicz

15 Teri & Jim Crutchfield

16 Angie & Alan Roncek

18 Peggy & Dave Boncher

19 Brenda & Dave Redgers, Laurie & Mike Zakrewski 26 Belle & Stuart Berman 29 Shelley & Greg Renaud