Bellalago Beacon | May/Jun 2023

No Wake Policy & Boating Safety

Written by YESENIA VÉLEZ, LCAM, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS

On Florida waterways, there are signs restricting boat speed. Florida regulates boat speeds in certain areas, either for protection of wildlife or for boating safety purposes. It is important that boat operators look for signs, understand what they mean, and abide by the speed regulations.

One of the benefits of living in Bellalago is Lake Bellalago. Residents living on the lake can have a boat behind their house and have access to Lake Toho and many lakes beyond Lake Toho. As you know, Lake Bellalago is a no wake lake, but what exactly does that mean? The State of Florida defines no wake areas as a designated areas where vessels must be operated at a speed no greater than that which is necessary to maintain steerage and headway. The vessel should not produce a wake at this speed.

This means that when you look behind your boat, any surface motion created by your boat and motor should not be visible when the motion reaches the shoreline. While it varies by boat type, typically, a speed less than five miles per hour, or around 600 rpms is as fast as a boat can go to avoid creating a wake.

The following are the three primary reasons for Bellalago’s No Wake Policy.

1. SAFETY

The risk of a boating accident increases when you have a small lake and many resident boaters. The risk of colliding with another boat or hitting a dock is greatly reduced when travelling at idle speed.

2. MINIMIZE EROSION ISSUES

This is caused by waves hitting the shoreline. A wake from a boat can erode the shoreline and eventually silt-in the lake, requiring expensive dredging. Narrow channels are particularly susceptible to erosion because the wake does not have time to dissipate before hitting the shoreline. As wakes hit the shoreline, they undermine the roots of plants and grasses causing the dirt and sand to wash into the lake. There are several places in Lake Bellalago where erosion has begun to occur. It is noticeable by a more abrupt drop from the shore to the water, rather than a gradual slope.

3. PREVENT PROPERTY DAMAGE

Waves cause boats, especially pontoon boats, to repeatedly hit the dock to which they are tied, potentially damaging both the boat and the dock.

BOATER SAFETY RULES:

1. Please obey posted signs.

2. Always wear a personal flotation device while the boat is in motion.

3. Boaters encountering a spray crew applying herbicide should maintain a distance and slow to avoid creating a wake. The South Florida Water Management District airboats are clearly marked and numbered, making them easy to spot on Lake Toho.

4. Boaters planning to travel from Lake Kissimmee to Lake Okeechobee are encouraged to call ahead for navigation information. Both the Orlando and Okeechobee Service Centers can provide daily water level and navigation information. The Okeechobee Service Center can be reached at 863-462-5260 or 800-250-4200. The phone numbers for the Orlando Service Center are 407-858-6100 and 800-250-4250. During drought times, water levels may fall and limit access to motor boats. Also, periodic maintenance and Kissimmee River Restoration project construction may restrict navigation.

5. Alcohol consumption while piloting a boat is illegal.

6. Navigate carefully at all times, but particularly when traveling the meandering oxbows of restored sections of the lake. The

depth of the lake varies and sandbars can shift and reappear as water levels rise and fall.

7. Always pick your garbage out of the water. Garbage spoils the view and can pose a danger to visitors and wildlife.

8. Hunting regulations along the Kissimmee River are unique. Ignorance of the law is not a defense and can result in severe fines, penalties and the confiscation of your guns, boat and hunting equipment.

9. While locking through the structures along the waterways, turn off your boat motor and extinguish your cigarettes.

10. Be considerate of others on the waterways. Their rights are as valid as yours.

Below you will find a report for Bellalago and Isles of Bellalago that details the violations that have been issued between January 15th and March 15th, which total 1,527. Anyone can contact us directly to address any concerns they may have.

Hello Neighbors!

Written by MARY O’DAY, BELLALAGO BOARD PRESIDENT

It is such a great honor to serve as the first homeowner-controlled HOA Board President of this wonderful community. We have awaited this moment for many years and it has finally arrived. Now is the time to begin working on those issues which have been discussed among us for many years. The journey before us will be challenging.

In order to accomplish our goals, we will all need to put our many talents to work, roll up our sleeves and work together to make this community what we know it can be - safe, secure, stable, comfortable and beautiful

As we move forward, I remember a lesson of my youth: A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step. Come! Let’s walk together.

HELP US KEEP IN TOUCH

While we have many projects to accomplish, one of the top projects is

to improve communication. We heard that people were not receiving alerts and updates. So, we want to make sure that you are receiving all of the electronic announcements and news.

Stay up to date with news and alerts by ensuring your email address on record is up to date. To do this:

1. Open your internet browser of choice (Chrome, Microsoft Edge, etc.) and navigate to www.BellalagoHOA.com.

2. Login to your account.

3. If have never logged in before, click on the green “Login/ Register” button in the upper right.

4. If you have logged in before but forgot your password, enter your email and click “Forgot password?” You will be able to create a new password and the login to your account.

5. The next page will show your name and immediately under it is a button, “Change Email & Password.” Use this to update your email address and information.

Have Fun in the Sun!

Written by KAYLEE FEBLES, LIFESTYLE DIRECTOR

With the summer months headed our way, sun safety is the one of the most important things to remember! It’s vital to protect your skin from sun damage all year long, but with vacations, you’re more likely to be exposed to the elements. Sun exposure can cause sunburn, skin aging, eye damage, and skin cancer (the most common form of cancer in America)! Reminding everyone of skin care is so important that the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention has a whole day dedicated to it. “Don’t Fry Day” is observed on the Friday before Memorial Day every year. While you’re having fun, here are some tips and tricks to remember on sun safety!

1. APPLY - AND REAPPLY - SUNSCREEN!

Use an SPF 30 broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen at least 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours! If you’re going to be participating in water activities, apply it more often to stay extra protected.

2. SEEK SHADE

The sun’s rays are strongest between 10am and 4pm. Bring your own shade to the outdoors with an umbrella, or seek shade under large trees or shaded structures.

3. DRESS WITH CARE

Long sleeve shirts or pants might be uncomfortable in the summer, but they help shield the sun’s rays. Ultraviolet protection sun wear also provides an extra layer as well, and is made specifically for outdoor

use. Don’t forget about your eyes! Pack a pair of sunglasses or a wide brim hat before enjoying a day in the sun.

4. MINDFUL ENVIRONMENT

Use extra caution near water, snow or sand. These surfaces reflect the damaging sun rays and can increase your chance of sunburn!

5. UV INDEX

Learn how to read the UV Index. The National Weather Service and Environmental Protective Agency issues the UV Index daily to help people plan for their days in the sun. It provides important information to help you prevent sun overexposure and increase overall sun safety.

6. CHECK MEDICATIONS

Some medicines can make skin more sensitive to UV rays. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if any of your medications could increase your sun sensitivity. If so, take extra precautions when enjoying time outside.

Have a fun and safe summer!

407-853-2255

KFebles@Evergreen-LM.com

May & June Events

All events require an RSVP or paid ticket before the day of the event, unless otherwise specified. To purchase tickets or RSVP for an event, please visit BellalagoHOA.com or email your Lifestyle Director, Kaylee Febles at KFebles@ Evergreen-LM.com. Events, ticket prices, cancellations, and details are all subject to change at any moment.

CINCO DE MAYO FIESTA

FRIDAY, MAY 5TH » 7PM-9PM

BELLALAGO BOAT DOCK AREA

Join us for a Cinco de Mayo Fiesta with live music, flamenco dancers, a photo booth, and food trucks! Please bring your own chairs or blankets for your comfort.

PINE & PETAL WOOD FLOWERS WREATH

SATURDAY, MAY 6TH » 3PM-5PM » $20

BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER

Join us with instructors from Pine & Petal to make a wood flower beaded wreath perfect for the spring and summer seasons! Tickets are $20 per person and must be purchased ahead of time.

SHRED EVENT

SATURDAY, MAY 6TH » 10AM-1PM

BELLALAGO BOAT DOCK AREA

A1 Shredding will be here on site to solve all your shredding needs. The shredding of metal or wood is prohibited.

MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH

SUNDAY, MAY 14TH » 10AM-12PM » $15

BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER

Celebrate yourself or a mother figure in your life on Mother’s Day with a yummy brunch! Then after brunch enjoy a pampering session sponsored by Mary Kay Cosmetics. Tickets are $15 per person and must be purchased ahead of time.

When something goes wrong, conventional methods tell us to treat symptoms, manage the chaos, and cope with the stress ... BUT what if there’s a better way? Join us and together we’ll explore affordable DIY recipes and tips, plant-based products and essential oils that will provide YOU the superpowers to conquer mamahood with chemicalfree confidence!

MEMORIAL DAY POOL PARTY

MONDAY, MAY 29TH » 11AM-3PM

BELLALAGO & ISLES OF BELLALAGO POOLS

Join us for a Memorial Day filled with music, games and fun! A food truck will be available for purchase.

UNDER THE SEA DADDY & ME DANCE

SATURDAY, JUNE 10TH » 6PM-8PM » $15

BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER

Join us for our annual father daughter dance under the sea! Enjoy music, food, crafts and even a special surprise guest! Tickets are $15 per couple and $5 per additional child. Tickets must be purchased beforehand.

HOWL AT THE MOON LIVE SHOW

SATURDAY, JUNE 17TH » 7PM-10PM

BELLALAGO BOAT DOCK AREA

Celebrate Father’s Day weekend with a live Howl at the Moon show! Howl at the Moon delivers a world famous high energy dueling piano show right here in Bellalago! Please bring your own chairs or blankets for your comfort. Food trucks and a cash bar will be available for purchase.

SUPER SUMMER WEEK

MONDAY, JUNE 26TH - FRIDAY, JUNE 30TH

Join us during Summer Break for a fun-filled week with a different activity each day! See the weekly Lifestyle Newsletter for more details.

LUNCH & LEARN: BUMPS, BABIES & BEYOND

SATURDAY, MAY 27TH » 12PM-1PM

BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER

Children come with a million needs but never with an instruction manual. As parents we must play the role of chef, chaperone, counselor, doctor, entertainer, disciplinarian and so much more.

Let’s Get Ready for Summer

Written by DOUG DINGEE, FACILITIES CLUB MANAGER

It is our responsibility that every resident enjoys these wonderful facilities here at Bellalago and that we provide excellent service. It is for this reason that we are continuously training our Lifestyle Concierges and encouraging them to improve in all areas related to the service and experience we bring to our residents and their guests.

One of the most important aspects of this continuous training is making sure that all rules are followed, not only by our Lifestyle Concierge as they welcome you to the Club, but also by our homeowners and their guests. In order to make your visit an unforgettable one, we encourage you to help us comply with the check-in protocol. It’s very simple and so important that we follow it every step of the way.

CHECKING IN

» Residents must always bring their Bellalago ID card with them and show the ID to the Lifestyle Concierge.

» There will be NO ACCESS to any of the facilities in the Club if residents decline to show their ID.

» Entry to the pool area must be acquired through the Amenity Center buildings and you must sign in before entering the outside pool area.

» If you decide to stay and enjoy the pool after visiting our restaurant, Flip Flops Bar & Grille, please make sure that you come inside the Amenity Center to sign in and show your ID.

» All tenants must renew their ID as they renew their lease agreement. An ID will only be issued to those tenants whose names appear in the lease agreement.

» Minors between the ages of 16-17 years old can be issued a Consent ID with the approval of their parents. Parents will need to submit any of the following forms of ID (passport, school ID showing the date of birth or birth certificate) as proof of age of the minor. A Minor Waiver will also need to be completed by the parents. This form will be available at the Lifestyles Concierge’s desk.

» Any minor who has been given a Consent ID will not be allowed to sign in any other minor or adult. This ID is solely for their access to the facilities as approved and acknowledged by their parents.

» Escorting minors to the pool then leaving them unattended (to use the restaurant or fitness facility) is not permitted. If this happens, the minor will be asked to leave the pool area. Minors are only allowed to be on the pool deck with the presence of an adult unless this minor has a Consent ID.

» Homeowner/tenant assumes the responsibility for the actions of their guests. You must sign in for your guests and sign a waiver.

» If the pool is busy, a wristband may be placed on your wrist which must stay on at all times while using the pool.

» Guests must have their guest passes with them at all times when using the Club amenities. If a guest pass expired, your guest will not be allowed to use the facilities. Under no circumstances are we permitted to extend a guest pass without the consent of the owner and this needs to be requested in person. This step can be done it advance by the owner.

Our Bellalago and Isles of Bellalago family keeps growing every day and the importance of just showing your ID makes a difference. Remember that your ID is what identifies you as a resident and Club member. It is also an important tool; in the case of an emergency, we are able to contact your family by simply using the information that your ID will provide. So, let’s all have fun at our pools and gym and remember to show your ID!

DOUG

Fishing Tournament & Spring Carnival

Summer Reminders

Written by NIA VELEZ, HOA ADMIN ASSISTANT & EFRAIN CASTRO, LEASING COORDINATOR

As summer arrives and spring is no longer, our Membership Department would love to share some basic tips for our Bellalago residents. As the temperatures rise, we naturally draw to the pool to cool off. The pool will be getting quite popular this season, so we would like to remind you of some facility rules.

We are a family-friendly community, so please keep that in mind when picking out your swimwear before headed to the pool as we do have a bathing suit policy in place. We understand that bodies come in all shapes and sizes and wardrobe mishaps happen. Wearing a modest swimsuit choice helps “keep you covered.” As fun as giant pizza and ducky pool floats are, we do ask that you keep them outside the community pool. They take up space in the pool that can be used by one of your neighbors instead. All children arm band floats and vests are allowed.

Please be mindful that we do not have a lifeguard on duty. All minors must be accompanied by an adult. The front desk staff is unable to babysit your children. We would love for you to not only share these wonderful summer memories with your little ones, but also be there for them in case of any emergencies.

GUESTS

Guests must be over the age of 18 for the gym. Only minors with

a Bellalago Consent ID are permitted gym entry and they are not allowed to bring a guest. Everyone intending on using the gym must sign in at the desk and show their ID or guest waiver before using the gym.

If you anticipate having any guests and prefer for them to sign in themselves, you can receive a guest pass for your visitors. The Concierge staff will issue a guest waiver that the homeowner would need to sign, stating the duration of stay and each adult looking to use the amenities. Once approved, we will issue a waiver that must be brought in with your guest, shown to the staff, and the guest will sign in on the tablet with our Concierge team.

Guest passes can only be issued thirty days per calendar year. If your guests will only stay for two days, be sure to ask for a two-day pass. Once you use up all your days, a new pass will not be issued until the following year.

DWELLINGLIVE

Make sure to add all your guests to DwellingLive so they can enter through the main gate with ease. You can download the DwellingLive app and add your guests. If you are having issues logging in or need to register, you can call the Amenity Center for help at 407-933-3010 or swing by.

Club Meetings

For more details, visit BellalagoHOA.com or email Kaylee Febles, Lifestyle Director, at KFebles@Evergreen-LM.com. All clubs will be required to sign in using a Bellalago ID. If you are interested in starting a club or interest group, email Kaylee for an application.

BOOK CLUB

MONDAYS, MAY 8 & JUNE 12 » 7PM

BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER

Join the Book Club on the second Monday of every month.

BUNCO CLUB

MONDAYS, MAY 15 & JUNE 19 » 7PM

BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER

Join the Bunco Club on the third Monday of every month.

CIGAR CLUB

SUNDAYS, MAY 21 & JUNE 18 » 4:30PM- 7:30PM

FLIP FLOPS BAR & GRILLE

The Cigar Club meets the third Sunday of every month.

DOMINOES CLUB

EVERY TUESDAY » 6PM-9PM

BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER

Join the Dominoes Club every Tuesday.

FIREARMS CLUB

SATURDAYS, MAY 27 & JUNE 24 » 9AM

BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER

We meet to discuss our common interest in firearms; provide a venue for sharing knowledge, instruction, and activities designed to help firearms owners be responsible 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 in Club facilities.

GIRLFRIENDS CLUB

ONCE A MONTH

Friday or Saturday evenings at various locations.

LADIES CARD CLUB

EVERY THURSDAY » 1PM

Join the Card Club Thursdays in the Bellalago Recreation Center.

MAHJONG & CARDS

FRIDAYS » 2PM-4PM

Join Mahjong & Cards on Fridays in the Bellalago Recreation Center.

MEN’S GAME NIGHT

WEDNESDAYS, MAY 3 & JUNE 7 » 6:30PM

FLIP FLOPS BAR & GRILLE

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

NATURE CLUB

THIRD SUNDAY: MAY 21 & JUNE 18 » 1PM

BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER

Join the Nature Club on the third Saturday of every month in the Bellalago Recreation Center.

PICKLEBALL CLUB

EVERY TUESDAY & THURSDAY » 5PM-7PM

EVERY SUNDAY » 2PM

BELLALAGO TENNIS COURTS

Each person attending will be required to sign in with Bellalago ID.

PING PONG CLUB

MONDAYS » 2PM-4PM

Join the Ping Pong Club every Monday in the Bellalago Amenity Center.

TENNIS CLUB

SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS » 8AM-11AM

THE BELLALAGO TENNIS COURTS

Each person attending will be required to sign in with Bellalago ID. Please bring your own equipment.

LIFESTYLE RESETTERS WELLNESS CLUB

FIRST WEDNESDAY: MAY 3 & JUNE 7 » 7PM-9PM

BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER

Join us to live your most powerful life! We will discuss the choices we make about our health, as well as a variety of topics including healthy eating, daily movement, stress management, restorative sleep, and so much more!

Fitness Class Schedule

AQUA FITNESS

TUESDAY - FRIDAY » 11:15AM » BELLALAGO

SATURDAY » 8AM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO

A low impact cardio and strength workout for all fitness levels in the comfort of the pool.

AQUA ZUMBA

MONDAY AT 10AM » WEDNESDAY AT 8AM

ISLES OF BELLALAGO

This class brings new meaning to the idea of an invigorating workout. It combines Zumba rhythm and dance steps with a pool party. It offers a fun but challenging, water-based, body-toning workout.

FIT KIDS

SATURDAY » 10AM & 11AM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO

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.

GENTLE FLOW YOGA

SUNDAY » 11AM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO

This class incorporates simple flowing sequences to warm up the body, as well as slower paced movements focusing on alignment.

HATHA YOGA

THURSDAY » 9AM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO

This class is designed to help improve strength, flexibility, balance and bring peace to both the body and mind.

KICKBOX CARDIO

FRIDAY » 10AM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO

This is a group fitness class that includes fast-paced cardio. This highenergy workout challenges the beginner and elite athlete alike to build

stamina, improve coordination and flexibility.

KIDS FITNESS GAMES

SATURDAY » 12PM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO

Join Instructor Nikki for a fun-filled class for ages 8+. Parental supervision required.

LEGS, GLUTES & ABS TONING

FRIDAY » 9AM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO

This class focuses on using body weight to tone, scuplt and strengthen the core and lower body. Increase strength and muscular endurance with this fun strength building format!

LINE DANCING

TUESDAY AT 6PM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO

This fun dance class will get you moving and increase your steps with a variety of Line Dances to fun and upbeat music!

PILATES

MONDAY AT 8AM » WEDNESDAY AT 6:30PM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO

Pilates concentrates on strengthening the body through posture, balance and flexibility with an emphasis on core strength.

SEATED YOGA

WEDNESDAY » 12PM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO

This class allows participants with limited mobility to use a chair for seated postures or standing postures to help increase mobility.

STRONG NATION

THURSDAY » 6PM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO

STRONG NationTM is a High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) class

Current Class Schedules are Posted in the Amenity Centers and on the BellalagoHOA.com Calendar. Please see weekly Lifestyle Newsletter or Online Calendar for the most up-to-date Fitness Class Schedule.

that moves to the music designed with short, intense bursts of work followed by a short recovery period to help burn maximum calories in a minimal amount of time. STRONG Nation classes incorporate body weight strength building moves, plyometrics and cardio for a complete workout that is synced to the music.

STRENGTH & SCULPT

TUESDAY » 6PM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO

TAI CHI

FRIDAY » 12PM

Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese art of healing, relaxation, and selfdefense. The practice has developed into a graceful exercise with soft smooth movements that is used today for stress reduction, energy enhancement, illness prevention, and strengthening the mind and body.

TEEN FIT

TUESDAY » 7PM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO

Join Instructor Nikki for a fun-filled Teen Fitness class for ages 13-17. Parental supervision or consent required with ID.

TOTAL TONING

TUESDAY & THURSDAY » 10AM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO

A full body workout that combines sculpting exercises and strength

training, designed to tone and strengthen all areas of the body.

TRX & WEIGHTS

THURSDAY AT 7PM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO

TRX is a form of suspension training that uses body weight exercises to develop strength, balance, flexibility and core stability simultaneously.

VINYASA FLOW YOGA

MONDAY » 7PM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO

Vinyasa Flow Yoga emphasizes the sequential movement between postures, coordinated with and guided by deliberate breath.

WAKE UP ZUMBA®

MONDAY, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY » 9AM

THURSDAY & FRIDAY AT 8AM » SUNDAYS AT 10AM

ISLES OF BELLALAGO

This class incorporates Latin and international music and dance, while offering a balanced blend of cardio and muscle toning benefits.

YOGA

MONDAY AT 11AM » WEDNESDAY AT 10AM

ISLES OF BELLALAGO

A class that has a gentle way to improve your posture, balance, and coordination, which includes mediation and relaxation. A yoga mat is required for this class.

Welcoming Visitors: Gate Access

Written by ELETTSY JIMENEZ, DIRECTOR OF SECURITY & SAFETY

Iwould like to give a few tips on how the process of entering through the gatehouse can be more efficient for you and your visitors. During the hours of 6am-10pm, the gate is extremely busy with high traffic. Please remember to update your contact information on the DwellingLive system. All owners have access to this system and if you do not, please contact administration to help you set that up. The front desk is open 8am-8pm and can be reached at 407-848-3010. The HOA management office, open 8am-4pm, Monday-Friday, can be reached at 407-848-1904.

THE AUTOMATED VOICE SERVER SYSTEM

The Automated Voice Server number is 407-906-7998. This number only works if your phone number is registered in the DwellingLive system. If you call from a number not registered, it will not give you access. When you call the automated number, the system will instruct you how to leave a message. You can only leave one name per message, not multiple names since the guard can only register one name per message. The message will only stay in the system for the day the call was made, not 24 hours. Please give about three minutes after you leave the message to allow the update to take place in the system. For example, if you call at 1pm the message will delete at 11:59pm. If you call at 6am, the message will delete at 11:59pm that same day.

DWELLINGLIVE SOFTWARE SYSTEM

DwellingLive is the software that is used to check in guests. All your

guest and account information that the guard needs to know is in this system. The guards will verify the information that is registered in your Guest, Vendors & Resident List in order to allow access to the visitor at the gate. Please be advised, the guard can not change or add anyone to your V.I.P. list. You need to go through the app or have administration help you with any changes.

Please make sure you have a contact number on the DwellingLive system so the guard can contact you if you have an unexpected visitor. This takes a lot of time when trying to call the resident and the numbers in the system are incorrect, disconnected or there is no number at all. The guard will need the visitor to turn around until we can contact someone in the home to allow access.

These methods should be used before calling the gatehouse. This creates ease of entry and expedites community access for your visitors. I hope this was helpful information.

Have a wonderful Bellalago day!

877-221-6919

BellalagoHOA.com