Bellalago Beacon | July-August 2021

BEACON VOLUME 1 0 | I S S UE 4 | J ULY/AU GU ST 202 1

Hurricane Preparedness Written by Y E S E N I A V É LE Z, LCA M , C O M M U NI T Y ASSO C I ATI O N M A NAGE R

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and be aware of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA)- which requires no-sign up.

very year we prepare for the dreaded months of heat and rain called Hurricane Season. To top it off with the kids being at home needing educational distractions we tend to forget how important it is to prepare for the season.

THOSE WITH DISABILITIES If you or anyone in your household is an individual with a disability identify if you may need additional help during an emergency.

HURRICANE SEASON: JUNE 1ST-NOVEMBER 30TH This Family Hurricane Preparedness Guide will provide information to help you, your family, and your community prepare for hurricane season following the five key messages from hurricanestrong.org.

REVIEW IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS Make sure your insurance policies and personal documents like ID are up to date. Make copies and keep them in a secure password protected digital space.

KNOW YOUR HURRICANE RISK Hurricanes are not just a coastal problem. Find out how rain, wind, water, even tornadoes could happen far inland from where a hurricane or tropical storm makes landfall. Start preparing now.

STRENGTHEN YOUR HOME De-clutter drains and gutters, bring in outside furniture, consider hurricane shutters.

MAKE AN EMERGENCY PLAN GET TECH READY

Make sure everyone in your household knows and understands your hurricane plan. In your hurricane plans include the office, kids’ daycare, and anywhere you frequent. Ensure your business has a continuity plan to continue operating when disaster strikes. Discuss the latest Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance on Coronavirus (COVID-19) and how it may affect your hurricane planning.

Keep your cell phone charged when you know a hurricane is in the forecast and purchase backup charging devices to power electronics.

HELP YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD Check with neighbors, senior adults, or those who may need additional help securing hurricane plans, to see how you can be of assistance to others.

RECOGNIZE WARNINGS AND ALERTS Have several ways to receive alerts. Download the FEMA app and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide. Sign up for community alerts in your area B EL L A L AG O B E AC ON

GATHER SUPPLIES Have enough supplies for your household, include medication, 2

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COMMUNIT Y MANAGER

disinfectant supplies, masks, pet supplies in your go bag or car trunk.

After a hurricane, you may not have access to these supplies for days or even weeks.

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Remember that not everyone can afford to respond by stocking up on necessities. For those who can afford it, making essential purchases and slowly building up supplies in advance will allow for longer time periods between shopping trips. This helps to protect those who are unable to procure essentials beforehand and must shop more frequently. Only take the items you and your family may need so that others who rely on these products can also access them.

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BUILD YOUR DISASTER SUPPLY KIT During a disaster event, you and/or your family will require specific items. Assemble supplies before disasters occur, including supplies for various locations (e.g., home, work, vehicle). Enhance your safety and comfort after an emergency or disaster by planning to be self-sufficient and meeting your basic needs. Secure and maintain nonperishable food, water, cash, medicines, and other supplies that will last for at least 72 hours. Once you build and maintain your disaster supply kit, you will have a way to meet your family’s needs during a difficult time.

You will also help your community by allowing emergency officials and first responders to focus on those that cannot help themselves.

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Meal Supplies: Paper plates, cups, paper towels, and plastic utensils Battery-powered radio, NOAA weather radio, extra batteries Sleeping bag, blankets, and pillows, etc.

Clothing: Seasonal, rain gear, and sturdy shoes First Aid Kit plus medicine and prescription drugs (one week+ supply with list of all medications, dosage, and any allergies) Toiletries: Hygiene items, moisture wipes, and sanitizer Flashlight and batteries Car and house keys Toys, books, and games Fire extinguisher Whistle to signal for help Dust mask to help filter contaminated air Wrench or pliers to turn off gas or utilities Masks, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, and spray Maps Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery Paper and pencils Household chlorine bleach + medicine dropper to disinfect water Other personal items, such as glasses, contacts, and contact lens solution, infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, and diaper cream Copies of medical insurance and/or Medicare identification cards Contact information for doctors, relatives, or friends to be notified if you are injured

BASIC SUPPLY CHECKLIST ☐ Cash: Banks and ATMs may not be open or available ☐ Water: At least one gallon per person per day for three to seven

days for drinking and sanitation

YESENIA VÉLEZ

☐ Food: Enough for three to seven days, including non-perishable

87 7-221-6919 YVelez@Evergreen-LM.com

packaged or canned food and juices, food for infants and the elderly, snack food, manual can opener, vitamins

Project Updates Written by DO U G D I NGE E , FAC I L I TI E S C LU B M A NAGE R

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appy Fourth of July! Remember, we are in hurricane season, so be aware that when one comes, any loose items can become projectiles.

» The mulch circle on the Isles of Bellalago pool deck will have pavers installed. » Hydraulic gate arms will be installed at the south gates of Bellalago and Isles of Bellalago.

The following work has been going on throughout your community: » Repainting of the fences around the Amenity Centers. » We are working with a vendor to schedule a day to come out and start the repairs on the road and we are asking the residents to watch out for a notice due to a possible road closure. » The Maintenance Team is working on replacing rotted planks on the pier along with washing and painting of the subdivision monument signs.

B EL L A L AG O B E AC ON

DOUG DINGEE 87 7-221-6919 DDingee@Evergreen-LM.com

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Compliance Team Violation Report

PHONE NUMBERS Evergreen Customer Service

87 7-221-6919

BELLALAGO Amenity Center Security Main Gate

407-933-3010 407-846-3014

ISLES OF BELLALAGO Amenity Center Security Main Gate

407-343-9175 407-846-1873

HOA ADMIN NUMBERS Community Association Manager Yesenia Vélez

87 7-221-6919 YVelez@ Evergreen-LM.com

Facilities Club Manager Doug Dingee

87 7-221-6919 DDingee@ Evergreen-LM.com

Below you will find a report for Bellalago and Isles of Bellalago that details the violations that have been issued between April 13th and June 21st, which total 971. Anyone can contact us directly to address any concerns they may have.

Attorney Final Notice of Violation

11

On Hold Extension Requested

66

Exterior Cleaning / Maintenance

1

Clean Shingle Roof

2

Exterior Decoration(s)

1

Damage to Sidewalk

1

Landscaping

7

Exterior Cleaning / Maintenance

23

Parking / Vehicles

1

Garbage Receptacle / Waste

3

Wash Tile Roof

1

Install Prohibited

2

Attorney Notice of Violation

39

Items Left Out

1

Clean Shingle Roof

1

Landscaping

19

Exterior Cleaning / Maintenance

10

Landscaping Self Help

1

Garbage Receptacle / Waste

2

Lighting

1

Installed Required Approval

1

Paint

1

Landscaping

15

Paint House Requirement

1

Landscaping Self Help

2

Parking / Vehicles

1

Leasing / Occupancy

1

Wash Tile Roof

10

Nuisance

1

Resolved

438

Paint

1

Clean Shingle Roof

Paint House Requirement

1

Damage to Sidewalk

5

Parking / Vehicles

2

Exterior Cleaning / Maintenance

67

Wash Tile Roof

2

Exterior Decoration(s)

8

First Notice of Violation

55

Garbage Receptacle / Waste

32

Clean Shingle Roof

1

Install Prohibited

3

Damage to Sidewalk

2

Installed Required Approval

4

Exterior Cleaning / Maintenance

10

Items Left Out

20 149

8

Lifestyles Director Amy Mallinder

87 7-221-6919 AMallinder@ Evergreen-LM.com

Fitness Director Giselle Rodriguez

407-943-4068 GRodriguez@ Evergreen-LM.com

Exterior Decoration(s)

1

Landscaping

Compliance Manager Jose Chaparro

87 7-221-6919 JChaparro@ Evergreen-LM.com

Garbage Receptacle / Waste

1

Landscaping Self Help

6

Items Left Out

3

Leasing / Occupancy

2

Landscaping

19

Mailbox

4

407-343-9175 BellalagoLeases@ Evergreen-LM.com

Landscaping Self Help

4

Nuisance

7

Leasing / Occupancy

1

Parking / Vehicles

99

Lighting

1

Pets / Animals

2

Paint

1

Play Equipment

3

Parking / Vehicles

10

Prohibited Vehicles

1

Wash Tile Roof

1

Sign(s)

5

Wash Tile Roof

14

Membership

HOA Account Issues & Irrigation Work Orders Customer Care

87 7-221-6919 CustomerService@ Evergreen-LM.com

Friendly Reminder

HOURS OF OPERATION BELLALAGO & ISLES OF BELLALAGO AMENITY CENTERS

Damage to Sidewalk

5

Sent to Attorney

4

Exterior Cleaning / Maintenance

34

Exterior Cleaning / Maintenance

2

Exterior Decoration(s)

2

Landscaping

2

Garbage Receptacle / Waste

33

Void

23

Install Prohibited

5

Exterior Cleaning / Maintenance

3

Items Left Out

9

Exterior Decoration(s)

1

Items Left Out

1

Landscaping Monday - Friday Saturday & Sunday

6am - 9pm 8am - 9pm

POOL HOURS* Monday - Friday Saturday & Sunday

Usually Dawn - Dusk 8am - Dusk

*Subject to change. Check boards at each pool.

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335

101

Landscaping Self Help

8

Landscaping

6

Mailbox

1

Leasing / Occupancy

1

Nuisance

9

Nuisance

2

Paint House Requirement

1

Parking / Vehicles

7

Parking / Vehicles

91

Unauthorized Home Business

1

Pets / Animals

4

Wash Tile Roof

1

Play Equipment

5

Road and Traffic Regulations

1

Sign(s)

7

Wash Tile Roof

19

Total

971

JOIN US FOR DECADENT WAFFLES AND OTHER SCRUMPTIOUS

SUNDAY BRUNCH

ITEMS FROM 10AM-12:30PM!

SEE WEEKLY EMAIL FROM FLIP FLOPS FOR RESTAURANT HOURS, AS THESE ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

CHECK OUT THE MENUS OF OUR DELICIOUS FARE ON BELLALAGOHOA.COM B EL L A L AG O B E AC ON

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MEMBERSHIP

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Sweet Summertime Written by B R I T TA N Y PAYNE , L I FE ST YL E S A D M I NI STR ATI VE ASSI STA NT

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Instructions 1. Place all of the ingredients in a blender and mix until smooth.

2. Serve over ice.

ummertime is a time to kick back, relax and enjoy the day.

Many times, around this season we get flooded with lease applications from renewing or prospective tenants wanting to move before the new school year. With that being said, please remember that all tenants must first be approved by the HOA prior to moving into a home in the community.

This drink can also be made into a slush. Add ice to a blender and only one can of water would be needed.

REMINDERS Please allow up to 30 business days for the Membership Department to respond. A letter and email will be sent to the party requesting the lease. There is an expedite fee of an additional $50 (per household) for a response within seven business days.

Renewal applications should be submitted 30 days in advance to avoid any interruptions of service with barcode access and amenity usage.

Here’s a refreshing summer drink recipe to try at home with the kiddos!

PEACH LEMONADE Ingredients » 1 pound package frozen peaches » 12 ounce can frozen lemonade concentrate » 36 ounces water (fill the lemonade cup up three times) B EL L A L AG O B E AC ON

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COMPLIANCE

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Summer Lawn Care Tips Written by J O S E C H A PA RRO, LCA M , C M CA , C O M P L I A NC E M A NAGE R

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ummer brings lots of outdoor activities including barbecues and backyard play for children of all ages. As more time is spent outdoors during the summer months you would want a healthy, entertainment-worthy yard. Here are a few tips to follow for a healthy yard to enjoy the summer months.

PLANTS By picking the right plants (native plants), you ensure the best adaptability. Plants that are native to your region will be best adapted to your weather conditions and will need less water during droughts.

Even if you choose natives, be sure those natives are listed as drought tolerant since even some natives prefer wetter conditions. You can also choose drought- resistant or low water plants and turf varieties.

Ask your landscape professional for advice when selecting new plants.

» Water, correctly. Many people think the summer months means water frequently, but the way you water is more important than the frequency with which you water. Grass and plants are resilient and have mechanisms that help them deal with summer heat. For instance, grass may go dormant and look brown during times of drought, but, if it is well cared for, it may return to normal when there is adequate moisture.

Efficient tip for watering deeply. » Water your plants less often, but deeply. » Water in the early morning or evening hours so the sun and heat don’t steal moisture from your plants. Ideally, grass should get at least one inch of water per week. » Ensure the health of your grass. » Have your lawn aerated to improve oxygen flow and check the soil PH balance to ensure the healthiest grass. » It’s important that your grass has adequate fertilizer, which provides the nutrients necessary for good health. » Remove weeds from grass as they steal nutrients. » Mow Correctly. Many homeowners are tempted to mow their grass short to minimize the frequency of mowing; however proper mowing techniques will help promote the good health of your lawn.

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ARC REMINDER As a reminder any changes to the exterior of your properties (including landscape) requires ARC approvals. For any questions regarding the Architectural Review Process or application, you can contact Oscar Gonzalez at OGonzalez@Evergreen-LM.com.

CONTACT For any compliance information or complaints, you can contact the Compliance Team at BellalagoCompliance@Evergreen-LM.com.

JOSE CHAPARRO 87 7-221-6919 JChaparro@Evergreen-LM.com

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FITNESS & WELLNESS

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Mindfulness

Written by G I S E L L E RO D RI GU E Z, FI TNE SS & W E L L NE SS D I RECTO R

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e are so thankful that our community had the opportunity to welcome Licensed Mental Health Counselor Lillianis Cruz from Hope Counseling of Central Florida. In the last several months she has joined us in a couple of “Lunch and Learns.” She has tackled topics such as anxiety and depression.

Together we have truly learned so much.

TIME & PLACE Find a quiet, comfortable place where you can practice mindfulness for 15 to 30 minutes every day. Frequent and consistent practice leads to the best results, but some practice is better than none.

POSTURE Sit in a chair or lie down in a comfortable position. Close your eyes or let your gaze soften. Let your head, shoulders, arms, and legs relax.

Adjust your posture whenever you feel uncomfortable.

On June 14th, with over 26 residents in attendance, we learned different coping skills used for depression. The one that really caught my attention was “Mindfulness,” and I’d like to share what this means and how you can practice mindfulness if you find yourself struggling.

We look forward to having Lillianis return to help educate our community on Mental Health.

AWARENESS OF BREATH Focus on your breathing. Notice the sensation of the air as it travels in through your nose and out through your mouth. Notice the gentle rise and fall of your belly.

MINDFULNESS Mindfulness means paying attention to the present moment. It means taking a step back and noticing the world, and one’s thoughts and feelings, without judgment. The goal of mindfulness is to simply observe. Mindfulness helps reduce the rumination and worry that often accompany depression.

WANDERING MIND During meditation, it’s normal for the mind to wander. When this happens, gently turn your attention back to your breathing. You may need to do this frequently throughout your practice.

MEDITATION One way to practice mindfulness is through meditation. During mindfulness meditation, you will simply sit and focus your attention on the sensation of breathing. By focusing on your breathing, you will put yourself in the here-and-now.

B EL L A L AG O B E AC ON

G I S ELLE RO D R I G UEZ 4 07-9 4 3 - 4 0 6 8 G Rod r i g u ez@ Eve rg re e n - L M .c om

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FITNESS & WELLNESS

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Fitness Class Schedule Current Class Schedules are Posted in the Amenity Centers and on the BellalagoHOA.com Calendar

AQ UA FITNE SS

STR EN GTH CL AS S

MONDAY-FRIDAY » 11:15AM BELLALAGO POOL

MONDAY » 7PM

A low impact cardio and strength workout for all fitness levels. This class utilizes water weights, aqua gloves and pool noodles to achieve a unique total body workout. Swimming is not required.

Join Instructor Tracy for this class that includes cardio exercise, body weight exercises, and finishes with core training and stretching for a complete workout. All levels welcome!

B ODY SCULPTING

S U MMER TEEN FIT

WEDNESDAY » 6:30PM

TUESDAYS IN JULY » 7PM

Non-aerobic, muscle-toning class designed to define, sculpt and build lean muscle.

Join Instructor Nikki for a fun-filled Teen Fitness class for ages 13-17.

Parental supervision or consent required with ID.

F I T KIDS

TOTA L TO N IN G

SATURDAY » 10AM & 11AM

TUESDAY & THURSDAY » 10AM

Join Instructor Nikki for a fun-filled Fit Kids class at 10am for ages 6-8, and 11am for ages 9-12. Parental supervision required.

A full body workout that combines body sculpting exercises and strength training, designed to tone and strengthen all areas of body.

F LOW YOGA

YIN YAN G YO GA

FRIDAY » 9AM

THURSDAY » 6PM

Focuses on form and alignment of the body. Designed to help improve strength, flexibility, balance and bring peace to both the body and mind. Great for beginner to intermediate levels.

Join instructor Tanya at Isles of Bellalago for an invigorating 30 minute Power Flow followed by 25 minutes of Gentle Yoga to unwind and release tension. All yoga levels are welcome!

H AT HA YOGA

YO GA

MONDAY AT 10AM » THURSDAY AT 9AM

WEDNESDAY » 10AM

Focuses on form and alignment of the body. This class is designed to help improve strength, flexibility, balance and bring peace to both the body and mind. This class is great for beginner to intermediate levels (levels 1 and 2).

A class that has a gentle way to improve your posture, balance, and coordination in which includes mediation and relaxation.

Z U MBA® MONDAY, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY » 9AM ZUMBA PM: TUESDAY AT 6PM » WEDNESDAY AT 7:30PM AND THURSDAY AT 7PM

K I C K BOXING FRIDAY » 10AM

High-energy workout combining martial art techniques to help build stamina, improve coordination and flexibility.

This dance-based fitness class incorporates Latin and International music and dance, while offering a balanced blend of cardio and muscle toning benefits.

SE ATED YOGA WEDNESDAY » 12PM

Z U MBA® TO NIN G

Allows participants with limited mobility to use chair for seated postures or standing postures to help increase mobility, range of motion and reduce stress.

MONDAY » 6PM

B EL L A L AG O B E AC ON

A class for those who want to party, but put extra emphasis on toning and sculpting to define those muscles!

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LIFEST YLES

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Bellalago Events Written by A M Y M AL L I ND E R, D I RECTO R O F L I FE ST YL E SE RVI C E S

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the making since before Covid? To say I was super excited to have this event for the Dads and Daughters of Bellalago is an understatement! I would like to give a shout out to Chef Micky for the delicious food and the entire Flip Flops staff for assisting for the duration of the evening.

am beyond thrilled to be back in full swing planning and executing events for everyone here within Bellalago. I have some exciting things in the works that I can’t wait to share with you!

Thus far, we have been enjoying reconnecting with our Seasonal Wine Tour with Time for Wine’s proprietors Charles and Cheryl, Bingo, and Trivia with DJ Chris. Finally, we were able to have our Enchanted Forest Father Daughter Dance. Can you believe this theme has been in

B EL L A L AG O B E AC ON

To end, thank you to you all for participating in our virtual events, scavenger hunts and Facebook giveaways and keeping the lifestyle program here active! I look forward to seeing you soon.

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LIFEST YLES

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Enchanted Forest Father Daughter Dance & USA Wine Pairing

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FOOD & BEVER AGE

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Hello Bellalago

Written by E M AN U E L QU I RO S, FO O D & BE VE R AGE D I RECTO R

M

y name is Emanuel “Manny” Quiros and I am a 21year veteran of the food and beverage industry. I bring significant experience and leadership, but also a passion to provide next level service and comfort to all guests in my care.

Best Mojito with Bacardi in 2003, muddled Mango Mojito, and also a margarita with Jose Cuervo in 2007 with my Key Lime Margarita.

In my free time, I enjoy golfing with my son Emanuel Jr., watching my son Kayshawn’s baseball game at Haines City High, or my daughters Elizabeth and Elyana cheerleading in competitions. I also enjoy dining my way through the local food scene with my wife Taina. I am excited and feel very fortunate to be able to work in this community!

I have a wealth of hospitality experience, including the Rosen Hotels and Resorts, Uno’s Chicago Grill, and Smokey Bones. Most recently I served as the Bar Manager for The Grille at Stonegate in Solivita where, as part of the leadership team, I was responsible for all Food & Beverage operations for this neighborhood restaurant.

Born and raised in Central Islip, New York, I moved to finish my high school and college degrees locally. My hospitality career began with Rosen Hotels in 2000 and my love for mixology and crafting cocktails brought me to enter several nationwide competitions. I won B EL L A L AG O B E AC ON

M A N N Y Q UI RO S 87 7-2 2 1- 6919 EQ u i ros@ Eve rg re e n - L M .c om

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SAFETY & SECURITY

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Entrance Security

Written by E L E T TSY J I M E N EZ , DI RECTOR OF SAFE T Y & S EC URI T Y, VI TAL S EC URI T Y

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line over the summer: Call the automated system to add any visitors at 407-906-7998. Add your guest to dwellingLIVE for the day or as a permanent guest. Please remember that the automated voicemail server is only good until 11:59pm before it voids out in the system.

This also applies for any visitors that are input into dwellingLIVE for a day. This is all for your safety. These two simple things can make the line and your wait shorter.

he Bellalago ID is considered a form of identification; however, we also need to confirm your name and address on dwellingLIVE. Please be patient and kind as security officers verify your information in the system when entering the community.

This is for everyone’s safety. Also, if you update your information on dwellingLIVE and with the HOA, this can help with the process if you are renewing your lease. The following are tips to help with the car

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LIFEST YLE EVENTS

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July & August

For more details, visit BellalagoHOA.com or see the front desk staff for assistance. Event details subject to change.

L A D I ES CARD C LUB EVERY THURSDAY » 1PM

Join the Card Club Thursdays in the Bellalago Recreation Center.

D O M I NOES CLUB EVERY TUESDAY » 6PM-9PM BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER

Join the Dominoes Club every Tuesday.

I N D E PE NDENCE DAY P O O L PART Y SATURDAY, JULY 3RD » 11AM-2PM BELLALAGO AND ISLES OF BELLALAGO POOLS

K IDS ART S ER IES

Join us for DJs, prizes, sweet treats and more!

SUNDAYS, JULY 11TH, 18TH, 25TH & AUGUST 1ST » 12PM-2PM BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER

M E N ’S GAME NIGHT

$5 per child, per class. July 11th: Painting Kindness Rocks; July 18th: DIY Colorful Garland; July 25th: Painting Flower Pots; and August 1st: Waldorf Window Art.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 7TH & AUGUST 4TH » 6:30PM FLIP FLOPS BAR & GRILLE » FREE

Test your skills and try your luck amongst your fellow residents! Soft drinks will be provided.

TR IV IA N IG HT W ITH DJ CHR IS THURSDAY, JULY 22ND & AUGUST 19TH » 6:30PM FLIP FLOPS BAR & GRILLE

A D U LT BINGO FRIDAY, JULY 9TH & AUGUST 13TH » 7PM-9PM ISLES OF BELLALAGO

This FREE event will have you getting to know your neighbors.

Come out and “Break a Mental Sweat!”

B-I-N-G-O! Coffee is on us. Residents and guests must be 18. $10 gift cards will be awarded for every win.

LUNCH & LE ARN: BLOOD PRESSURE & ANXIET Y MONDAY, JULY 19TH » 12:30PM-1:30PM BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER

C R A FT CLUB SATURDAY, JULY 10TH & AUGUST 14TH » 11AM-1PM BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER

With Dr. Johanne Dunn. Light refreshments. RSVP required.

Join your fellow craft loving residents to discuss new projects and learn from each other. Bellalago ID required upon check in.

DIV E IN MOV IE SATURDAY, JULY 24TH » 8PM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO

FIR E A R MS CLU B SATURDAYS, JULY 31ST & AUGUST 28TH » 9AM ISLES OF BELLALAGO

The purpose of the Bellalago Firearms Club is to meet together over our common interest in firearms for discussion; to provide a venue for sharing knowledge, instruction, and activities designed to help firearms owners be responsible, knowledgeable, and proficient in their ownership and use of firearms; and to reduce the risk of accidents in their possession and use. No firearms are permitted during our attendance and use of Club facilities.

BACK TO S CHO O L PA RT Y SUNDAY, AUGUST 8TH » 11AM-2PM

Join us for our back to school party with crafts, a color party, water slides, DJ, rides and more!

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B EL L A L AG O B E AC ON

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FISHING CLUB

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Fishing Championship Written by ST E V E N M O RI N, RE SI D E NT, BE L L A L AGO FI SHI NG C LU B

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“This club is the keeper of the lake. It provides the vision; it provides the labor and it provides the passion that keeps this lake in such great shape. It seems like these guys are the eyes and ears of this lake.”

hen I was a ten year old boy growing up in Detroit, my dream job was to be the beer vendor at Tiger Stadium.

Imagine being paid to roam the bleachers on a warm June evening watching Al Kaline patrol right field while shouting “Get your cold beer here!” That was probably before I knew that professional angling was a viable career choice. Yes, there are people who get paid to fish all day.

Patriot Cup anglers got off to a slow start as they tried to figure out Bellalago’s big bass. The lake’s lack of fish attracting features and natural cover mean that Bellalago largemouth bass tend to be more scattered than locations they fish more frequently. However, because they are professionals, they got dialed in quickly.

The Major League Fishing organization is a federation of the top bass anglers in the world. Every year, the 28 “best of the best” compete in the league’s version of the Super Bowl, the USAA Patriot Cup. These anglers square off against each other in two elimination rounds and the final eight compete in the championship round. The goal of the competition is to catch, weigh and release as many bass as possible during the tournament time limit. All of the weights are added together and the day’s highest total wins. A unique feature of this competition is the participants do not know where they will be fishing in advance. They can’t study maps, practice, or select gear based on a specific fishing situation.

The big fish of the day honors went to Jesse Wiggins who landed a mammoth eight pound, nine ounce bass by pitching a jig along the shore of the wildlife preserve. But the championship trophy and the $100,000 prize money went to Takahiro Omori, the Tokyo, Japan professional angler who first started bass fishing in junior high school by riding his bicycle to a small pond near his house. Omori finished the day with a total weight of 35 pounds and 11 ounces of Lake Bellalago bass. The secret to his success? He started the day casting a white chatterbait and later changed to a squarebill crank bait along the banks and near docks. Omori said, “I had three or four fish miss my vibrating jig and that is why I switched to the squarebill crank bait.”

On November 12, 2020, the final round of the USAA Patriot Cup was held right here on Lake Bellalago and was recently broadcast on the Outdoor Channel (Spectrum 805). Marty Stone, the on-air television analyst for Major League Fishing explained why Bellalago was selected to host the event.

If you want to learn more about fishing in the Bellalago community, consider joining the Bellalago Fishing Club. You do not need to own a boat to join the club, just an interest in fishing. Visit our Facebook page or send an email to one of the club’s officers at morinsteven@ rocketmail.com or drwservices@gmail.com. Now, you may not win $100,000 by fishing the lakes and ponds of Bellalago, but you sure can have a lot of fun. Who knows, maybe someday you will be a professional angler competing in Major League Fishing tournaments!

“Never before have I seen a gated community embrace wildlife management and fish habitat management as I have here in Bellalago.

This place is special.” Stone went on to explain the role that the Bellalago Fishing Club plays in maintaining this unique resource.

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1200 Lago Vista Court Kissimmee, Florida 34746 87 7-221-6919 BellalagoHOA.com