CERT TEAM GOLF CART MAINTENANCE
The Tara Woods CERT Team will be providing a golf cart maintenance check-up on Saturday, March 29th. Check-in starts at 10:00 AM and runs until 1:00 PM. Don’t miss this free opportunity to check if your tires need air, your batteries need water, or your lights need help. The service area will be in the parking lot on Shilo Lane near the Tennis Courts. If it rains, the event will be moved under the portico of the Clubhouse.
GOLF CART SAFETY TIPS
Keep these tips in mind wherever your golf cart takes you. In Tara Woods golf carts are a typical way to get around. They are a lot of fun to drive. Here are some important safety tips to help keep you and others around you safe.
Golf Cart Safety Basics
• Only carry the number of passengers that you have seats for.
• Stay away from your golf cart during lightning.
• Remove any valuables when leaving your cart.
• Establish a regular maintenance schedule. While You Are Driving
• Do not start driving until all passengers are seated.
• Operate the golf cart from the driver’s seat only.
• Keep feet, legs, arms, and hands inside the cart at all times.
• Obey and follow all traffic rules. Stop at all stop signs.
• Check behind you before operating in reverse.
• Always yield to pedestrians.
• Do not text while driving – distracted driving applies to golf carts just like cars.
• When parked, always set the parking brake.
• Remove the key before leaving the golf cart to prevent theft! Adapting to your terrain
• Use extra care and reduce speed when driving in bad weather or on poor surfaces.
• Avoid extremely rough terrain.
• Don’t drive fast downhill and try to avoid steep slopes to prevent tipping over!
• Sudden stops or change of direction can cause you to lose control.
These tips were adapted from State Farm golf cart safety and brought to you by your TW CERT (Community Emergency Response Team).
Join your Tara Woods CERT team. No particular experience needed. Free training and equipment provided. Help keep your TW community safe, educated, and prepared for disasters, emergencies, and other safety situations.
TARA WOODS ANNUAL CALENDAR MEETING
SATURDAY, MARCH 23RD 9:30 AM IN THE CLUBHOUSE ALL GROUPS, CLUBS, AND ORGANIZATIONS WHO PLAN COMMUNITY EVENTS/FUNDRAISERS SHOULD SEND A REPRESENTATIVE. BE PREPARED TO HOST AN EVENT. SAMPLE EVENTS ARE LISTED ON THE CALENDAR LOCATED UNDER THE ACTIVITIES TAB ON THE TWHOA.NET HOME PAGE.
CONTACT CELIA FOR MORE INFO. CALL/TEXT 703-863-2973 EMAIL: BAILEYNME99@GMAIL.NET
COLUMNS STAFF
EDITOR: Linda Elliott
239-560-0768 (lindabluetw@gmail.com)
ASSISTANTS: Linda Engel, Donna Erhardt
PHOTOGRAPHY: Lou Dunning
CALENDAR: Janet Daly and Sue Clark
CIRCULATION: Linda Janis and Donna Tribeck, Co-Managers
COMMUNITY DIRECTORY: Haywood Gandy, Manager
CLUBHOUSE SCHEDULER: Janet Daly
STUFFERS: Angie D’Allessandro, Sharon Boehlke, Gene Dickie, Hilda Dienes, Pat Dunning, Chris Olson, Carol Schnepp, Claire Schwinn, Barb Simonson, Jim Ulnick, and Carol West.
DELIVERY PEOPLE: Pat Dunning, Sheila Harris, Lori Hoch, Vicki Hoard, Caroline Kelsey, Mary Kivel, Jack LaSelva, Shari & Norm Libby, Chris Olson, Nancy Schoeppner, Barb Simonson, Andrea Snyder, Sylvia Stump, and Bill & Sue Sobkowicz.
ALTERNATES: Celia Blotkamp, Judy Girty, Gerri Linder, Barb Simonson, 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 Aug/Sept. 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.
WELCOME NEW RESIDENTS
WELCOME NEW RESIDENTS
We would like to 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 Orientation which will be held on Saturday, April 12th, at 10:00 AM in the Clubhouse Meeting Room. We have a wealth of information to share with you. All are welcome.
Juanita Henry Juanita resides on Lot #320, 2853 Cloister Street. She is a full-time resident from Michigan. Juanita has two children and five grandchildren. She is currently still working at Lee Health. Juanita is looking forward to participating in all the activities at Tara Woods.
WELCOME TO TARA WOODS, Barbara Krilivsky and Linda Kasdorf, co-chairs of the Welcome Committee.
SUNSHINE AND SYMPATHY
DEATHS:
Ron Fabiszak
Ed Simko
ILLNESSES:
Donna Sealey, Louise Frederick, Beth Ferris, Dona Fox, Mary Green, Mike Schwinn, & Bob Jenkins
Please remember in your thoughts and prayers the family and friends of all these neighbors, and please let me know of any medical news in your neighborhood. Debbie Doty, 937-248-8125, debbiepickleball@gmail.com, Lot #664
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
This is Old Glory. Is yours faded and torn? Retire her to a proper disposal. Drop her off at 19553 Charleston Circle (Lot #12) or the Guard House.
Also, there is now a Flag Box at the North Fort Myers Fire Department, where you can drop off your old flags.
Replacements are available from Bob Glandorf. $8.00
FROM THE DESK OF THE PRESIDENT
By Peter Krilivsky,
President
To begin with, I would like to thank all of you who took the time to wish me well in my new position. I promise to work diligently for you and for the good of Tara Woods.
I would like to start by sharing some facts regarding the HOA to give you some clarity as to what we can and cannot do as an HOA: The Tara Woods Homeowners Association is a not-for-profit corporation registered in the State of Florida. We have an EIN number with the Federal Government. TWHOA was formed under FL. State Statute 723. As such, we must comply with this statute and its administrative rules.
TWHOA also must follow our TWHOA Bylaws and its Administrative Rules. TWHOA is guided by the four prospectuses, PA, P1, P2, P3, and the Rules for Community Living, that all new residents are given at closing. Your Lease Agreements and Prospectuses, as well as the Rules for Community Living, are used when attempting to help residents with their concerns.
We are a land-leased community, which means we own our home but not the property it sits on. That land is leased from Hometown America, our landlord. When you closed on your home, you were given a number of documents that outline your rights and also the rules of the community that you agreed to abide by in order to live in Tara Woods. In my experience, I have found confusion comes when a resident is not cognizant of the rules and regulations that a resident must comply with because he/she doesn’t take the time to review or consult when rendering a concern or simply know what they can and can’t do.
If you can’t find your Lease Agreement, Prospectus, or Rules for Community Living, ask the Hometown America front office for a copy. For State Statute 723, the TWHOA Administrative Rules and Bylaws, and many other pertinent documents, please visit the www.twhoa.net website.
Also, for your information, because we are a land-leased community, your HOA does not own the common areas, does not negotiate contracts, nor are they asked to participate in the negotiations, does not pay for any of
FMO FOR YOU
Exactly what is this FMO? (Federation of Manufactured Homeowners of Florida) What do they do?
The FMO is the only statewide non-profit consumer advocacy organization that is dedicated to protecting the rights of manufactured homeowners in the Florida legislature.
Give me an example – Over the last thirteen years the state house has been eyeing our Lot Rent with a sales tax. It was the FMO that stopped those increases.
When you join the FMO, you align yourself with thousands of other manufactured homeowners who share a common purpose: Protecting the rights of all residents living in manufactured homes on leased land.
By uniting FMO members to amplify their voices, creating a stronger impact for themselves and future homeowners.
the amenities or upkeep, does not pay for or negotiate lease agreements, or hire/supervise personnel. However, what we can do is enter into diplomatic negotiations and practice gentle persuasion when we are within our rights as outlined in contracts with Hometown America. Our mission statement as outlined in the TWHOA Bylaws is as follows: “To help provide social, recreational, and civic activities for the members of the Corporation; To promote the general welfare of the members of the Corporation; To provide liaison and/or negotiations between the members and management and/or owners of Tara Woods.” This Board will follow this mission to the best of their ability.
If you, as a resident of Tara Woods feel that you have a legitimate concern, please check the above-mentioned documents before making claims or innuendos not supported by those documents. Your concerns are important to share with the Board and we are happy to address them. Sometimes the answer may not meet your expectations. I can assure you that if HTA blatantly refuses to repair or maintain the amenities or common areas, we will fight to the end to make things right. So far, in our experience, that has not been the case. Timelines may come and go, but maintenance and repairs will always be made. Patience is a virtue. Emergencies will be dealt with first and budgets will be kept. If you are legally in your rights when an infraction/concern occurs, your HOA will help you fight for your rights. We must live harmoniously, as we are a small community. You may have heard me say we are like family, and sometimes we may be dysfunctional, but for the most part we are a caring people who love Tara Woods and the resort-type amenities available to us.
Our residents are not just residents and neighbors but are the Magic of Tara Woods.
It is important that all residents, full-time and part-time, are members. When the Florida Legislatures pass a bill concerning manufactured homes on leased land, it affects ALL residents. We need your voice!
When you join the FMO, $30.00 per year or $75.00 for three years, it gives you access to four issues of the FMO magazine per year, representation in Florida’s Capital, full-service website, advice to members from FMO legal counsel. Contact me to join, or if you have any questions, as we work for our residents. I have applications for membership to the FMO in the
Clubhouse along the back wall or you can join online at www.fmo.org. If interested, I could drop one off at your home; all you have to do is call. NOTE: membership fees are scheduled to increase June 1st. Now is a good time to join. We are actively looking for an FMO Park Representative to represent Tara Woods. This is another way to volunteer your time and talent for your community. If you are interested or would like more information, please contact me. Thank you.
Lou Dunning, President FMO District 7 Lee County 239-240-5847, loudunning2@gmail.com
TARA WOODS CARING FOR CHILDREN: WALK FOR A CURE
By Debbie O’Neill
A note from Debbie and Marilyn, your co-chairs for Tara Woods Caring for Children with Pediatric Cancer.
We would like all Tara Woods groups and clubs to participate in our walk for a cure on Sunday, March 30th. It would be great if each group has a sign to show which group you are walking for. The first walkers of the day are cancer Survivors, and the second walkers are Caretakers.
There will be a time sheet on the bulletin board in the Clubhouse so everyone can sign up, starting on Saturday, March 1st.
We will also have Luminaria sales before the walk, until 2:00 PM.
A basket Raffle and Cash Prizes will be announced between 3:00-3:30 PM.
Let’s make this a stellar year for the Children.
In this issue of The Columns, you will find a donation form and an envelope. The envelopes can be used as a donation to go towards Pediatric Cancer Research if you are fortunate enough not to have anyone in your life with cancer.
Thank You!
“A REASON TO SMILE”
By Peter Krilivsky
Beginning with the April issue of The Columns, we will be adding a new article with the title “A Reason to Smile”.
We envision this article to have positive stories about life in Tara Woods written by you, the residents.
Many have come to live in Tara Woods for a variety of reasons: family, friends, amenities, culture, beauty of nature, activities, etc.
Many residents have been long-time residents who have stayed in Tara Woods because of the people, the real Magic of Tara Woods.
We would love to have the opportunity to share those uplifting stories with all the residents.
So, here is your opportunity to bring smiles to your neighbors. You can send your stories for publication to Linda Elliott at lindabluetw@gmail.com. The only requirement is that the article will warm our hearts and make us smile.
RED HAT LADIES
Come join us on Tuesday, March 4th, at 1:00 PM at Anthony’s on the Blvd., 1303 Del Prado Blvd. South in Cape Coral. The sign-up sheet is on the board in the Clubhouse.
We have lunch, cocktails, fun, and a social. Hope to see some new faces. If you have any questions, please call JoAnne Glandorf at 727-224-4772, or Vera Day at 941-223-3859.
THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH
“If you want to change the world, start with the next person who comes to you in need.”
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TARA WOODS BOOK CLUB
MARCH BOOK CLUB NEWS
The Book Club of Tara Woods will be meeting in the little meeting room of the Clubhouse, at 1:30 PM on Thursday, March 6th. You are all invited to join us. We do not read a group selection; you may report on whatever book you would like to. Or, you can just come and listen.
Heads up---in the next couple of months we will be having a guest speaker. We have an author in our community and he has agreed to come to our Book Club to talk about his book and take questions. As soon as I know the date, I will be letting you all know.
Thanks, Pat Dunning 239-240-5848
ARTISTS SHOW THEIR TALENT IN TARA WOODS
By Maggie Johnston
The artists of Tara Woods were out in full force. Painting classes once again are happening. There was one in January and a couple in February, with more to come if there is an interest. I am the instructor, Maggie Johnston, and I am a Tara Woods resident. I always say, “If you can hold a paint brush, you can do the painting and NO experience is necessary”. Step-by-step guidelines, along with
some one-on-one assistance, are provided. The key is “Trust the Process”! As you can see from the group photos, everyone did an exceptional job. I will host other craft classes from time to time. Postings will be through Facebook and the bulletin board in the Clubhouse. All are invited and welcome to any classes. ~ Maggie Johnston, 613-433-6206
ENTERTAINING NEWS
So, Ladies and Gentlemen…we find ourselves in the midst of winter in SWF. It is tough to take this kind of weather when we know people up north are sloshing through the ugly side of winter, but hey, someone must do it and it might as well be us.
Our play will be on stage in a few days; be sure to get your tickets to our performance. I know you all want to wait until the last minute and purchase your tickets at the door (just in case a better offer comes in), but we would like to know how many people we will see in the audience. So go ahead and purchase your ticket either at Saturday Morning Coffee or before Bingo on Tuesday.
I was looking over the number of volunteers that it has taken to get our show in final production – would you believe over fifty people! I want to thank each and every one of you who has taken your time and talent to help the Entertainers produce this play. As we all say and know to be true, Tara Woods is a unique community. If you get the chance to look inside other communities, you will find they have similar amenities, events, and people. But Tara Woods is special. We do have people living here, but they are much more than that. We are friends. In fact, some are closer than relatives. If we join for a common goal, we will keep what
is a fragile lifestyle that we share in Tara Woods. Okay, as Petra would say in our play, “ENOUGH CHIT CHAT” (sounds better with Dar Andrus’ Russian accent).
Our play “Saint Peter’s Escort Service” will be on stage:
• Friday, February 21st, show time is 7:00 PM, doors open at 6:30 PM
• Saturday, February 22nd, show time is 7:00 PM, doors open at 6:30 PM
• Sunday, February 23rd, show time is 2:00 PM, doors open at 1:30 PM
Tickets are $10.00 per person, and are on sale before Tuesday Bingo and at Saturday Morning Coffee. Tickets will also be available at the door for theater seating and tables. Tickets are good for either; we cannot allow alcoholic drinks or food in for these performances. Any questions on this issue, please contact me, Pat Dunning, either by phone call or text to 239-240-5848.
“This killing people with kindness is taking way longer than I thought it would.”
Pat Dunning, Stage Manager & President of the Entertainers 239-240-5848 pdunning46@gmail.com
Show us where your issue of The Columns has traveled to! Email your photo to lindabluetw@gmail.com with the location and names of residents
and your photo might be published in an upcoming
The Columns cover page must be visible for consideration.
the order received. Due to limited space, it could be several issues
We ask for your patience.
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.
The Entertainers are proud to present, in our 33rd year, our production of...
‘Saint Peter’s Escort Service’
By Gary Ray Stapp
“Produced by special arrangement with Heuer Publishing LLC of Cedar Rapids, Iowa” Friday / Saturday - February 21-22, 2025
Doors open at 6:30 PM – show starts at 7:00 PM Sunday - February 23, 2025
Doors open at 1:30 PM – show starts 2:00 PM
Prices are $10.00 per ticket starting Saturday, January 18th.
Purchase at coffee, bingo or at the door for each performance.
We have theater seating, with the front row for those that want to be closer. Ushers will be there to assist if needed.
Call Polly Brown for questions – 239-246-2391
NO FOOD NO DRINK ALLOWED IN FOR THESE PRODUCTIONS
Time for some financial spring cleaning
Spring is here — which means it’s once again time to wash the windows, organize your cabinets and steam your carpets. This year, in addition to tidying up around your house, why not also consider some financial spring cleaning?
Here are some suggestions to consider:
• “De-clutter” your investment portfolio. When you embark on your home cleaning mission, you might notice that you have redundancies — three blenders, two vacuum cleaners, and so on. Similarly, you might find duplications in your investment portfolio, perhaps in the form of multiple, near-identical stocks or mutual funds. If so, then it might be worthwhile to consider selling some of these investments and using the proceeds to boost your portfolio in other areas in which you may be lacking.
• Cut back on “overgrown” investments. Now that winter is over and you’re venturing outside more, you may notice some overgrown shrubbery or some tree branches that need pruning. And while it may sound counterintuitive, you might also have some investments that have grown too big for your needs. For example, you might own some growth-oriented investments whose value has increased so much that they now take up a larger percentage of your portfolio — and carry a higher degree of risk — than you originally intended. If that’s the case, you might be better off by selling some of these investments and purchasing others to help bring your investment mix back to its desired alignment.
• Dust off your investment strategy. With more sunlight now pouring in your house, you might notice that the corners of your walls and ceiling may need a good dusting. And as you continually work to strengthen your financial foundation, you may need to dust off your investment strategy, especially if you’ve recently experienced changes in your life, such as a marriage, addition of children, new job, and so on. And as you move closer to retirement, you may also need to adjust your strategy in some ways. For one thing, you might want to adopt a more conservative investment approach in the years immediately preceding your retirement, though you’ll still need to have some growth potential in your portfolio to help keep you ahead of inflation.
• Protect yourself from financial dangers. As you go about your household spring cleaning, you may find actual physical dangers that need to be removed or stored more safely, such as sharp objects or broken tools. And as you navigate daily life, you may also find threats to your financial safety — the need for an expensive home improvement, or a major car repair or an unexpectedly large medical bill. If you don’t have the money available to pay these expenses, you might be forced to dip into your retirement accounts or run up your credit card or take out a high-rate loan. To protect yourself from having to make these moves, you may want to maintain an emergency fund containing several months’ worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid account, separate from those you use for your daily living expenses. Of course, some of these moves can take some time — but by getting started on them soon, you can help put your financial house in better shape by the time the next spring cleaning rolls around.
Hector Gomez Financial Advisor
STATE CLUBS
MID-ATLANTIC SOCIAL CLUB NEWS
Our Club is made up of 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 listed in each newsletter which is posted on the Clubhouse bulletin board). ~ Sue Clark - secretary
MIDWEST CLUB
The Midwest Club represents the states of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Ohio, or any state not represented by another club.
The Midwest Club March Meeting will be on Friday, March 21st, from 5:00 – 8:00 PM. This will be our sportstheme party, so get out your NFL, NCAA, NASCAR, MLB, NHL, NBA, or any other sports-theme gear you choose to wear.
The meal will be hamburgers, hot dogs, pasta salad, and cookies for dessert. There will be a $5.00 charge for this meal, which you can pay for at the door.
A sign-up sheet will be posted on the bulletin board in the Clubhouse. Please sign up according to what you would like, a hamburger or hot dog, and the number of people attending. Paper products will be provided. As usual, bring your choice of beverages, and something to share for your table.
~ Vicki Hoard
NEW ENGLAND CLUB
The New England Club Bon Voyage Party is being held on Saturday, April 5th, at 5:00 PM in the Clubhouse. It’s cookout time!! On the menu: hamburgers and hot dogs, coleslaw, and potato chips. Also, a delicious dessert and coffee. There is a charge of $5.00 per person for this party and you must pre-pay; there are NO SIGN-UPS.
The six dates to pre-pay are:
Tuesdays: March 11th, 18th, or 25th, at 5:30 PM before Bingo.
Or Saturdays: March 15th, 22nd, or 29th, at Saturday Morning Coffee, 7:45-8:30 AM.
Please bring your choice of beverage, and there will also be some fun games and raffles.
Please remember that elections for officers for the 2025-26 and 2026-27 seasons will be held at this party. Hope to see everyone there! ~ Judy Machnicz
NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY CLUB
Welcoming all New York and New Jersey residents, renters, and guests. The theme for our next regular meeting on Saturday, March 15th, at 5:00 PM, is Potluck. Please sign up to bring your salad, entrée, or dessert on the sheet posted on the Clubhouse bulletin board. Please bring your own drinks and cups. Paper goods and plasticware are provided. No cost for this dinner, but there will be a Social Raffle. At this meeting, we select hosts for the upcoming year starting in October 2025 through April 2026, so start thinking about themes for our meetings and who you’d like to work with.
As always, we welcome all folks from New York and New Jersey – especially new residents and renters. We had a large turnout at our Christmas meeting and hope to see you all at the March meeting.
Please contact Pat Downs or Lori Mayers with any questions. ~ Pat Downs
UNITED STATES AND PROVINCES SOCIAL GROUP
The next Tara Woods Social Group gathering will be on Friday, March 7th. Social Time is from 5:00-6:00 PM, dinner is next, followed by a fun game. Debbie O’Neill and Celia Blotkamp are hosting the evening. We are going to have a potluck, with each person/couple bringing either a Main Dish, Salad, or Dessert. Sign-up sheets are in the Clubhouse on the bulletin board closest to the Billiard Room. Please bring one copy of your recipe in case someone wants to take a picture of it so they can make your fabulous dish at home! Also, please remember to wear your name tag so you can introduce yourself to new friends from the community. After dinner, Celia and Debbie will lead us all in a game of Card Bingo (no money required to play). Paper products, and decaffeinated coffee and cream are provided. Please bring your own cup and beverage. You are welcome to bring an appetizer to share at your table during Social Hour. This group is open to all Tara Woods residents and is a great way to meet new people. Our final gathering of the season will be on Friday, April 4th, so be sure to mark your calendars.
If you have any questions, call or text:
~ Paula Dykstra 616-481-7329 or ~ Diane Smith 616-772-4573
PICKLEBALL
The Super Bowl of Pickleball Tournaments
The world waited breathlessly on the morning of Saturday, February 8th, as the official 2025 Super Bowl weekend kicked off with the 3rd Annual Tara Woods Pickleball Tournament!
With temperatures soaring close to 100 degrees and toxic gases from Middle Earth seeping through the many cracks in the Pickleball Courts, 32 intrepid competitors began their quest to earn their place in history as the Tournament Champions! The double elimination tournament meant they not only had to fight their way through disappointment and heartache twice, but also the heat caused by the climate conditions as well as the many fans who swarmed to the courts to witness their bravery and competition.
After almost four hours of suspense and marvelous play, the winners of the semifinal matches met on the Pickleball Court, aware that one pair would wear the crown and the other would meet their fate bravely and with conviction, knowing they had given their all in the effort. The two finalists were Teri Burt and Larry Schneider versus Janice Johnston and Dan Faust. After a hard-fought, back-and-forth, heated contest, a victor emerged, and that victor was the team of Teri Burt and Larry Schneider!!!
Congratulations to the winners! Prizes were awarded to both teams immediately following their game. The names of the winners will be permanently engraved on the Pickleball Tournament plaque hung in the Card Room of the Tara Woods Clubhouse.
Congratulations and thank you to the organizer of the 3rd Annual Tara Woods Pickleball Tournament, Jennifer Widener, and to all her helpers who kept the records, moved the tournament along, got the competitors to their games, and served as line judges when needed. And congratulations and thank you to Alice Loveday for organizing, buying, and serving lunch. And congratulations and thank you to each of the competitors who fought hard and supported each other through good shots and not-so-good shots. Finally, thank you to those of you who did not compete but came out to cheer during the games and to watch some great competition.
After the exciting tournament, the football Super Bowl may have seemed a bit boring, but we hope you did your best to cheer them on. They worked hard to put on a show. It’s not their fault it couldn’t hold a candle to the 3rd Annual Tara Woods Pickleball Tournament.
You can be part of this exciting tournament next year. And you don’t need to be athletic at all, as this writer proves every time he steps onto the Pickleball Court. To learn how to play, contact Bruce Lubich (410-409-5873). Lessons are not expensive, since they’re free, and loaner equipment is available at the Pickleball Courts. You just need to wear tennis shoes while on the courts. And preparation for the annual tournament is available. The Pickleball Group holds a Round Robin Tournament on the fourth Sunday of each month, November to April, at 8 AM. Stop by and see what this sport is all about. There’s a reason it’s the fastest growing sport in the world.
SPORTS, EXERCISE, and ACTIVITIES TENNIS NEWS
Check out your Ceramic Room
We are located in the building behind the tennis courts. There is a kiln on-site to fire your work. This hobby is perfect for everyone from beginners to experienced. Arrangements can be made for one-on-one instruction, plus there are plenty of people to help. On Monday mornings you can find quite a few of us there. Members get a key to come at their own pace and time. To arrange a time to visit, call Donna Tribeck at 239-357-3333. Hope to see you there.
Book Club will meet on Thursday, March 6th, at 1:30 PM in the Meeting Room of the Clubhouse. If you enjoy reading and are willing to share your latest good book, come and join us. See you then . ~ Pat Dunning
Join us for a fun time, that is also great exercise and good for your memory. Tuesdays starting at 9:30 AM for dancers with some experience. Fridays starting at 10:00 AM for beginners.
~ Barb Goodhue 517-404-8063.
Now is the time to get up and get moving. Join your friends and neighbors at our exercise class for seniors led by Curtis Adams (On Video.)
Those who have experiences Curtis are excited about all the exercises and that all levels of experience and ability can participate.
This is a total body workout that can be done standing or sitting down. It includes stretching, balance, cardio, and light weights.
• Classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays in the Clubhouse at 8:00 AM. Contact: Barb Simonson 561-840-4430.
• Wednesdays and Saturdays in the Clubhouse at 10:00 AM.
Contact: Celia Blotkamp 703-863-2973. COME JOIN US AND SEE FOR YOURSELF!
The Library in the Clubhouse will be open normal days and hours: Monday through Sunday 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
There will not be a Movie Nite again until April. ~ Lynn & Jeff Lessmiller
BE SURE TO ROUTINELY CHECK THE TENNIS BULLETIN BOARD FOR UPDATED INFORMATION ON WHAT IS GOING ON WITH ALL TENNIS ACTIVITIES.
TENNIS ASSOCIATION NEWS
Just as we know the sun sets each day, we also know that the tennis season ends at Tara Woods. And it comes and goes so fast! But what another fun ride it has been. From playing bundled up in a few 40-degree days to seeing it in 89 degrees, everyone still came out and had fun.
Building friendships and keeping moving is so important. A quote from George Bernard Shaw: “We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.”
Thanks to all for another fabulous season. See you all on the courts! ~ Mark Hoffman
TENNIS LESSONS
If you are a beginner and want to learn the game of tennis, or if you are already a seasoned player and you want to make improvements in your serve or any other aspect of your game, come out to the tennis courts on Friday mornings at 10:00 AM. There will be an instructor there to help you.
OPEN TENNIS
The tennis courts are available for Open Tennis every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday from 9:00 – 10:30 AM. Some mornings in January were on the cool side, but the weather is starting to warm up now, so come on out to the courts and have some fun. Anyone who is interested in playing tennis is welcome to join us on those Open Tennis days – no matter what your skill level is.
Come to the courts and give it a try.
~ Linda Engel
WHITE TEAM - Stallions
In a highly contested and exciting match, the Stallions managed a tie (3-3) with the divisionleading Admiralty team! The Stallions are on the move in the division!
Our next home game will be March 4th against Sabal Springs. We have a bye on March 11th. On March 18th we play Admiralty for our last home game.
Come on down and join our rowdy crowd!
See you on the courts! ~ Tim Hoch
BLUE TEAM - Tigers
Our “Official Competition Season” started on January 9th with our team sitting out with a bye. On January 16th we hosted the Pine Lakes Blues, winning 5 sets and losing 1. Then
on January 23rd we travelled to play the Six Lakes Raptors, winning 2 sets and losing 4. Finally, for our last match in January, we went across U.S. 41 to play the Lake Fairways Cougars. We won 2 sets and lost 4. February results will be reported in the next issue of The Columns.
We have only one home match in March. We will host the Six Lakes Raptors on Thursday, March 27th, at 1:00 PM. Please come out to support us for our last match of the season. ~ Tony Gless
WOMEN’S LEAGUE – The Angels
The Angels are still holding on to the Number 1 spot in the SWIFT league. It’s close!! All of our January matches were away.
On January 9th we played against Sabal Springs. They are an excellent group of ladies. We fought hard to split the match 3 to 3. January 16th took us to Six Lakes, with us dominating the match and winning 5 to1. Sadly, we were rained out for our January 23rd match with Del Tura; the make-up for that rainout was February 10th, where we lost 1 to 5. We had a bye on January 30th. Matches for February were: February 6th away at Pine Lakes, with us winning 6 to 0 and February 13th at home with Lake Fairways, with us again winning 6 to 0. February 20th we were away at Herons Glen, and February 27th we were at home with Sabal Springs. Those scores will be posted in the April issue of The Columns. Our home matches are played at 9:30 AM.
Our last match of the season is at home on March 6th against Six Lakes.
COME CHEER US ON!! HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!! ~ Pat Gless
ROUND ROBIN
Our last Round Robin of the season is March 22nd. There will be a sign-up sheet on the Tennis Bulletin Board on March 3rd. Warmups begin at 8:30 AM and play begins at 9:00 AM.
After a fun-filled morning of no-pressure tennis, plan on joining us for some yummy food on the pool Veranda! Be sure to bring your beverage of choice. The cost is $7.00 for lunch, and $1.00 for tennis only. Additionally, a short Tennis Association Meeting will follow. This Round Robin will take the place of Open Tennis that day.
Please consider joining in the fun! All tennis levels are invited to participate. If you have any questions, contact me at 847-772-3825.
~ Bonnie Nagel
Submitted by Lori Hoch
WATER AEROBICS
Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays
Air temperature must be 62 degrees by 8:00 AM. Use ABC News to check the 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.
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. Any questions please contact Barb Simonson at 541-840-4430.
Submitted by Lori Hoch
NEW IMAGE CHORUS
Well, it’s March and that means our season is soon coming to a close! However, I have some food for thought for you for next year. Keep reading!
First things first, I want to remind all our choristers that we will be meeting back at 12:30 PM on Monday, March 10th, for rehearsals. We have some organizing to do for our show at the end of March, as well as to begin to work on music for next year.
On Saturday, March 29th, we are presenting a Vegas-style entertainer and comedian to entertain you. His name is Randy Riggle. Randy has been a seasoned veteran of the comedy scene since 1982 as a nationally touring comedian. His combination of innovative style, quick wit, and brilliant impressions has made Randy popular with all types of audiences for many years. The “Nostalgia Show” is a two-hour multi-media show that pays a comedic tribute to the 1950’s and 60’s. Tickets are currently on sale and there will be cabaret seating, if you wish to bring drinks and snacks, or regular orchestra seating. You can purchase tickets at Saturday Morning Coffee and before Tuesday Bingo. Tickets will
be a $20.00 donation. I’m sure you will love the show. Next season we expect to bring you two events! We will be hosting our annual Singalong after the Golf Cart Parade in December, and while it is normally sometime in the middle of December, I’m not quite sure of that date. Our bigger news though is our plan for next year’s show! We are looking for talent! Not just singing but any kind of talent. Are you a closet comedian? Or maybe an acrobat who wants to show the world your talent? Do you play a musical instrument? How about a juggler or a skit you and your friends want to put on for the community? Well, here is your chance. On March 28th, 2026, we will be presenting “Tara Woods Got Talent”!! More details about it very soon. We just wanted to let everyone know to start to hone your talents ready for this very fun night!
As always, we are looking for new members for our Chorus. We practice on Mondays from 12:30 to 2:30 PM and we would love to welcome you. Just come and try it out once!
Submitted by Lesley Krauss – pklesley@icloud.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
ACTIVITIES! ACTIVITIES!
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 who you can contact with questions.
1 Bob Almeida, Tricia Brown, Paul Loud
3 Chris Girard, Kate Nagle-Roides
4 Tony LaScala, Warren Lundmark, Mar Shriver, Cookie Wilczek
5 Marcia Duda
6 Rich Girty, Tami Hall, Steve Pushee
7 Pat Adriance
8 Betsy Courtney
9 Lin Anders, Dave Darroch, Linda Elliott, Jodi Jaecklein, Fred Miller, Kathy Rabassi
10 George D’Alessandro, Paul Roderick, Gary Sponseller
BIRTHDAYS IN MARCH
11 Glen Fisher, John Hatfield, Carolyn Key, Bill LaFontaine, Donna Mallinson, Bob Plumley
12 Chelsea Gron, Gordon Wade
14 Trish Bendon, Marie Harned
15 Barbara Werner-Lubich
16 Denny Adkins
17 Tiff Crimmins, Ray Flynn, Zita Neumann, Ann Sluiter, Andy Vanderplaats
18 Judy Cantrell, Diane Finnemore, Diane Klotz, Kathi Mulvihill, Linda Ulinski, Jack Wands
19 Lou Dunning
20 Aaron Homrighouse, Bridget Hoffman, 94 Yrs.
ANNIVERSARIES IN MARCH
1 Mel & Joe Holman
2 Ann Sluiter & William Sandell, 50 Yrs.
4 Cookie & Gerry Wilczek, 62 Yrs.
8 Frankie & David Lindon, 50 Yrs.
9 Sharon & Roy Moorhead
10 Sue Muscato & Ron Selvaggio 12 Val & Paul Roderick
15 Marty & Warren Harris, Herb & Mary Weisenburger
19 Judy & Mark Ledford
21 Doris & Jim Brockmeyer, 61 Yrs.
Linda & Joe Parise
Aileen & Ken Reese 26 Lesley & Denis Krauss, Lynn & Jeff Lessmiller
Cindy & Jerry McKay 29 Gayle & Barry Kelly 30 Karla & Steve Zingre
Contact Sue Clark - randsclark@verizon.net or 412/780-3584 before March 10th for Special Recognition of Birthdays 90+ and Anniversaries 50, 55, or 60+ in April
21 Jim Cawlfield, Barry Ling, Tom Mallinson, Tom Perkins, Jeff Reinert
22 Janet Daly, Ron Proulx
24 Alice Loveday, Candi McLean, Bill Walsh, Yvonne Young
25 Sandy Whitaker
26 Bob Campbell
27 Tina Battey, Scott Bell
28 Patty Cusella, Howard Gross, Laura McCaw
29 Carol Cherry, Casey Glandorf
30 Frankie Lindon
31 Ed Anderson, Debbie Argo, Dot DeSalvo, 95 Yrs., Dolores Paeth, 96 Yrs.
