APRIL 2019 VOLUME 19 ISSUE 4
[ Department ] Articles
REFLECTIONS APRIL 2019 VOLUME 19 ISSUE 4
ON THE COVER Hop on over for a special day at the Spring Parade & Carnival on Saturday, April 20th! The parade starts at 9am and ends at the carnival in Freedom Park where you’ll find fun, games, prizes and Easter eggs! See page E2 for more details. Photos by Judie Chiappone and Joe Thomas.
VILLAGE CENTER HOURS Administration: 863-427-7100 Monday-Friday 9am-5pm Floralawn On-Site Office (Admin Building) Monday-Friday 9am-5pm K&M Drugs: 863-496-7930 Monday-Friday 9am-6pm Saturday 9am-1pm and Sunday Closed Marketplace Bistro: 863-427-7150, ext. 4724 Daily 8am-8pm, Breakfast: 8am-11am Riviera Spa & Fitness Center: 863-427-7130 Monday-Thursday 6:30am-9pm Friday 6:30am-7pm, Saturday-Sunday 7am-7pm Solivita Club After Hours Emergency Phone Number: 863-286-8779 Weekdays 5pm-8pm and Weekends 12pm-5pm
CONTACT LIST Community Manager (Association) - Tyler Heel: 863-427-7103 or theel@evergreen-LM.com Club Manager - Sheri Wollschlager: 863-427-7129 or swollschlager@evergreen-LM.com Security & Safety - Madalyn Colon: 863-440-7572 or madalync@vitalsecurity.com Evergreen Lifestyles Management (For ALL Club & HOA Matters) 24/7: 855-490-1804 or customerservice@evergreen-LM.com Taylor Morrison Customer Care: 800-858-5933 or www.taylormorrison.com/warranty/request Activities: 863-427-7125 or SolivitaActivities@evergreen-LM.com Architectural Review: 863-427-7022 or compliance@solivitahoa.com
Starlite Ballroom Daily 8am-11pm
Catering & Banquets (Stonegate Golf Club): 863-427-7150, ext. 4720
Stonegate Pro Shop: 863-427-7150, ext. 4710 Daily 7am-5pm
Concierge: 863-427-7100 or Fax: 863-496-4456
The Grille at Stonegate: 863-427-7167 Daily 8am-9pm (Breakfast: 8am-11am, Lunch: 11am-4pm and Dinner: 4pm-9pm) Bar: Mon-Sat 11am-10pm (Happy Hour 2pm-5pm) and Sun 11am-9pm (Happy Hour All Day) The Palms: 863-496-1530 Amenity Center Monday-Sunday 8am-9pm Kids Pool Hours Monday-Friday 12pm-4pm Saturday & Sunday 9am-9pm Fitness Center Monday-Thursday 6:30am -9pm Friday 6:30am-7pm Saturday-Sunday 7am-7pm
Communications: 863-427-7137 or croe@evergreen-LM.com
Floralawn: 863-225-9565 or floralawn.com (Submit a Work Order) K&M Drugs: 863-496-7930 or Fax: 863-496-7931 Membership: 863-427-7143 or solivitamembership@evergreen-LM.com Resident 2 Resident Resource Center: 863-236-9973 or SolivitaR2R@gmail.com Riviera Spa & Fitness Center: 863-427-7130 Security -Bella Viana: 863-427-1268 Security-Main Gate: 863-427-4238 Security-South Gate: 863-496-1473 Security -Venezia: 863-427-2338 Security-West Gate: 863-496-1453 Solivita Sales: 863-427-7000
Waterfront Galleries Daily 8am-11pm
Stonegate Golf Club Directory: 863-427-7150
Welcome Center or Model Park: 863-427-7000 Monday-Saturday 9:30am -5:30pm Sunday 11am -5:30pm
Violations & Compliance: 863-427-7032
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The Palms Amenity Center: 863-496-1530 or Fax: 863-496-0914
Visitor/Vendor Gate Access Voice Server: 863-313-1314
[ Solivita Information] APRIL TABLE OF CONTENTS Newsletter Submission & Advertising Info ............................ Page 3 Department Articles .............................................................. Pages 4-18 Solivita University ...................................................................... Pages 8-9 Relay For Life Community Events .................................. Pages 18-19 Community Events .............................................................. Pages 19-23 Mosaics Special Nights ........................................................... Page 20 Wellness Lectures ........................................................... Pages 22-23 A Touch of Class ................................................................... Pages 23-26 Club & Support Group Meeting Lists ............................ Pages 27-31 Club News ............................................................................... Pages 31-59 Neighborhood News .................................................................... Page 60 Advertisements ..................................................................... Pages 61-96 Lifestyles Events (back of calendar) ................ Insert Pages E1-E3 A Night at the Movies ..................................................... Insert Page E1 Lifestyles Activities Ticket Sale Info ......................... Insert Page E1 Events You Do Not Want to Miss .............................. Insert Page E2 Future Events ..................................................................... Insert Page E3 Monthly Calendar (back of Lifestyles Events) ........................ Insert
Presents a Workshop Open to All Solivita Residents on:
It’s a Scary World Out There Thursday, April 18th 3:30pm in the Starlite Ballroom Come hear about ways to keep you, your home, and your money safe and secure. Experts will share ways to make you and your home safe and ways to avoid losing your money to scammers who want to take your money and use it for THEIR retirement. All R2R workshops are free of charge, but please register in advance by contacting the Resource Center weekdays between 9am-5pm at 863-236-9973 or email SolivitaR2R@ gmail.com for additional details and to reserve your spot.
NEWSLETTER SUBMISSIONS
Email submissions to newsletter@avcommunities.com
MAY SUBMISSIONS
Calendar submissions and newsletter articles are due on Monday, April 1st. Club inserts are due by Friday, April 19th. All inserts must be approved by Club Manager, Sheri Wollschlager (email to croe@evergreen-LM.com and swollschlager@evergreen-LM.com) before they are copied.
JUNE SUBMISSIONS
Calendar submissions and newsletter articles are due on Wednesday, May 1st.
ADVERTISING INFO
Solivita reserves the right to refuse advertisement and does not guarantee any work or claims made by advertisers. Advertisement in Reflections does not constitute an endorsement or approval of goods or services by Solivita. Residents receive 50% off the 1/8 page at the one-month rate ($115). The resident rate is $57.50 for the 1/8 page only. As a reminder, only one discount is issued per household. To download the contract and make payment, please visit SolivitaAdvertising.com. For more information on advertising your business in Reflections, please contact the Advertising Administrator, Amanda Wright, at 813501-7220, SolivitaAdvertising@Evergreen-LM.com, or visit the website at SolivitaAdvertising.com.
QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS? Do you have a suggestion for Reflections, Channel 732, or SolivitaHOA.com? Email inquiries or comments to Carolyn Roe at croe@evergreen-LM. com or stop by the Communications Office.
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[ Department ] Articles
Now You Can See…
By Jana Malik Director of Activities The Solivita Room Calendars will be available, beginning April 16th, for viewing all the activities, meetings and classes that are scheduled through SolivitaHOA.com under the Calendar section. This calendar will be helpful to residents who are involved in planning events or meetings with their registered Solivita club, for residents who teach a class under A Touch of Class, for residents who want to confirm their club meeting or class location, and for those who want look for a date to plan their private party (birthday, anniversary, etc). On April 16th at 3:30pm in the Ballroom, we will host a Talk n’ Chill to demonstrate the new calendar, teach you the Key Symbol meanings and learn the important calendar notes.
Photos taken at the 2018 Volunteer Appreciation and Ceremony event were submitted by Joe Thomas.
In addition to unveiling the Solivita Room Calendar, the Outdoor Recreation Court Calendar will also be unveiled by the Fitness and Wellness Department and will be ready for use. This Talk n’ Chill will also feature an overview of SolivitaHOA. com which is an overall amazing and useful tool for Solivita residents to acquire a multitude of valuable Solivita information.
Let’s Cheer For Volunteers
April is National Volunteer Month and we have so many reasons to cheer, or thank, the Solivita Rays of Service Volunteers (the name of our volunteer program). They assist Solivita departments with: editing, stuffing, bagging, sorting and delivering Reflections newsletters; selling, entering and taking Activities tickets; all
jobs at Movie Nights; organizing the Library; serving on Solivita department committees; administrative assistant duties; setting up, decorating, blowing up balloons, taking photos, driving golf cart shuttles, directing traffic, and many various tasks at events; and so much more.
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You can identify most volunteers by their Solivita volunteer ID badge. Please note that while they do so many tasks for us, they are not staff members, they are your fellow neighbors. Any questions, issues, concerns outside of their volunteer duty are to be brought to the Solivita staff they are helping.
Harold and Brenda Lewis were randomly chosen and crowned as Prince Charming and Cinderella at the Valentine’s Day Cinderella Ball Gala on February 14th. Photo submitted by Judie Chiappone.
continued on page 6
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WANTED! ARTISAN & CRAFT VENDORS FOR THE 18TH ANNUAL FALL FESTIVAL Saturday, November 2nd from 10am-4pm Village Drive | Rain or Shine Application Deadline is June 28th 10% Early Registration Discount Deadline is May 31st Application packets for the 18th Annual Fall Festival at Solivita will be mailed out to our mailing list by the end of April. To have your name added to the mailing list, send an email with your name, address, phone number and email address to solivitafallfestival@gmail.com or call Activities at 863-427-7125. Handcrafted art or craft items are accepted in the festival. Coming Soon - New Festival Name and Logo!
Reflections |  April 2019 |
Photos by Deborah Siladie and Irene Stecher.
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[ Department ] Articles
Security & Safety
Jana’s article continued from page 4
Master Chef: Resident Edition WINNERS Stay tuned for when their recipes will be debuted for a limited time at The Grille at Stonegate!
• Appetizer: Laurie Mach for Mary Kate’s Taco Pie (pictured below, middle)
• Burgers: Margo Heimbaugh for Crock-Pot Bacon Jam Slider
By Tyler Heel Community Manager In case you have not yet met her, I wanted to introduce you to Madalyn Colon, who is employed by Vital Security and Investigations. She has been with Vital for three years as Site Supervisor and Account Manager.
(pictured below, right)
• Dessert: Kathy Papaleo for Key Lime Mousse Parfait (pictured below, left)
Village Drive & Freedom Park Closings
See more information about these events on the back of the inserted monthly tri-fold calendar. • Sunday, April 7th: Relay for Life at Solivita - Event is from 12pm-8pm. VILLAGE DRIVE FROM THE BALLROOM TO THE PRO SHOP ROUNDABOUT IS CLOSED TO VEHICLES FROM 10AM-10PM, EXCEPT TO RELAY FOR LIFE TEAM BOOTH VENDORS. • Saturday, April 20th: Spring Parade and Carnival - Event is from 9am-1pm, but VILLAGE DRIVE FROM THE BALLROOM TO THE PRO SHOP ROUNDABOUT IS ONLY CLOSED FROM 8:30AM-10AM FOR THE PARADE. FREEDOM PARK RECREATION EVENTS ARE CANCELLED UNTIL 2PM. The carnival activities are in the Freedom Park parking lot. Thank you, thank you, thank you Solivita Volunteers; you are the big reason we are able to Keep The Party Going!!!
Her current responsibilities at Solivita include maintaining a crew of 40 officers, maintaining gates, checking for safety concerns in the community, checking the Village area to make sure traffic is clear and parking issues are addressed, and conducting perimeter checks to ensure gate lines are operational. The ponds are also checked to be sure that golf cart safety is addressed. Madalyn has a plan that she would like to have residents follow in dealing with security issues. She instructs her staff to take information, notify the rover/supervisor, and have the resident call emergency or 9-11 immediately. Madalyn enjoys working in this community and enjoys seeing the various activities and events that take place with such a high level of resident participation. She is pleasantly surprised with the activity level of Solivita residents in this over 55 community. Tyler Heel 863-427-7103 theel@evergreen-LM.com
COMMUNITY CHANNEL 732 Do you need to post your special club event to the Community Channel (Channel 732)? Send your slide information (Club Name, Date, Time and Location of Event, Ticket Cost and Contact Information) to CommunityChannel@Evergreen-LM.com. Each slide will contain only essential information, as it’s only on screen for
Jana Malik 863-427-7125 jmalik@evergreen-LM.com
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10-13 seconds.
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[ Department] Articles
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[ Solivita University ]
Co-Sponsored by the Solivita University Committee and Lifestyles Activities No studying, tests or exams are given, just enlightening topics to keep your mind energized. All classes are 90 minutes long and require pre-registration, unless otherwise noted. Solivita University classes are also listed in a calendar on solivitahoa.com under the Club/Class Directory and then click on Class Directory located on the left. April courses are available for registration. For more information, to register for a course or to purchase annual passes by cash, check or credit card, please visit the Activities Office or call 863-427-7125.
2019 Art and Literary Lecture Annual Pass
This pass will allow residents admittance to any of approximately 7 Art and Literary Lectures scheduled in 2019 for $20 per person. If you choose not to purchase an Annual Pass and want to attend a lecture, admission is $5 per lecture at the door. Art and Literary passes are for Art and Literature Lectures only and are non-refundable.
Art Lecture – Artists of Estrangement: Richard Serra
Tuesday, April 16th Ballroom • 1pm Tuition: 2019 Art and Literary Lecture Pass or $5 at the door Lecturer: Jan Clanton, Art Historian Class Description: Serra makes imposing and overwhelming sculpture. As a man he is equally imposing and overwhelming. His “Tilted Arc” was forcibly removed from a Plaza in NYC, he has been sued multiple times and he is estranged from his brother. What makes him tick? Next Lecture: Fall 2019
Literary Lecture – The City on the Heights by Joseph Cox
Monday, April 22nd • Gator Room • 4pm Tuition: 2019 Art and Literary Lecture Pass or $5 at the door Professor: Thomas Gallagher, PhD is a Solivita resident who has taught both literature and law during his career. He currently teaches at Valencia College. Class Description: In a region wracked by war, Maryam alMosuli feels protected. But then, her family is targeted by
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the Islamic State. In one shocking moment, she loses her parents. Hunted and desperate to survive, Maryam flees her home with her injured brother. When she discovers the City on the Heights, her hopes are lifted. The City, the brainchild of an American philanthropist, seems to be a place of renewal in a region filled with destruction. But the City has attracted others; others with far darker ambitions. Next Lecture: May 20th - Murder in the Red Room by Eleanor Roosevelt
2019 Great Decision Discussions Annual Pass
Great Decisions (GD) is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs. Each year the Foreign Policy Association produces a study guide with eight of the most critical global issues facing America. Great Decisions is an annual ticketed pass offering eight discussions that meet monthly January-May and September-November. The discussion of the month is conducted by moderator Thomas Gallagher Ph.D. The 2019 GD Annual Pass is $35 (or $40 for two sharing a book). If you choose not to purchase an Annual Pass and want to attend a discussion, admission is $5 per discussion at the door, no book included. Next Discussion: The Rise of Populism in Europe Tuesday, April 9th at 11am in the Gator Room and Wednesday, April 24th at 4pm in The Palms
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[ Solivita University] Banking, Buying and Business Using Smart Technology
Tuesdays, April 2nd and 9th and Wednesdays, April 3rd and 10th Gator Room • 4:30pm Pre-requisite: Silver SmartTech Basic Course held in October 2018 Tuition: $25 per student Professor: Mara Agrait, Silver Smart Technologies Course Description: This specialized course focuses on the financial aspects of utilizing the Internet. From purchasing online safely and the best sites/applications to purchase specific items to banking online and even starting or marketing your business! You’ll learn to do things you already do and enjoy, in an entirely new and beneficial manner. Objectives: • Safely search and purchase items • Navigate around a shopping site effectively • Learn the best sites/ applications to purchase which items • Know the differences between a website vs. application when purchasing • Understand the differences between purchasing with a debit vs. credit card • Find coupons and join rewards programs for more benefits • Banking online safely • Send and receive money virtually to family members/ friends and for services • Sell your things online and purchase others from neighbors • Navigate Facebook Marketplace • Have the ability to create a business from a hobby or passion and market it
Upcoming Summer and Fall 2019 Courses
• The Mythology of Ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome: 4-week Thursday course starting on July 11th at 3pm • History of Comedy Through Film: 3-week Thursday course starting on August 8th at 1pm • Ethical Dilemmas: Is There a Right Way to do the Wrong Thing?: 3-week Tuesday course starting on September 10th at 1pm • Word 101: 4-week Monday course starting on September 16th at 3:30pm • Excel 101: 4-week Tuesday course starting on September 17th at 4pm • History of the Decades Through Film: 1900-1930s: 3-week Thursday course starting on October 3rd at 1pm • What is Economics? Background of the Science and Principal Players: 3-week Thursday course starting on October 10th at 3pm • Further Cases of Interest in Constitutional Law: 3-week Fridays course starting on October 11th at 11am • History of Russian Revolution: 3-week Tuesday course starting on October 15th at 1pm • Jerusalem Jones and the Dead Sea Scrolls: October 25th, November 1st and 8th at 10:30am
Flags Over
Solivita
Memorial Day
There is still time to be part of the Flags Over Solivita Program for 2019. There are four remaining holidays this year. Please have your application in by May 10th or sooner to be included this coming Memorial Day weekend. This Program is open to all residents...not just veterans. Applications are available and can be printed from SolivitaHOA.com (under Veterans Club), on www. veteransclubofsolivita.com, or you may pick up a copy at the Concierge Desk. Applications, along with your $25 check (made out to VCS), can be mailed to Veterans Club of Solivita, P.O. Box 581770, Poinciana, FL 34758. If you would like to volunteer or you have any questions, email flagsoversolivita@gmail.com or call 863-512-3655.
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[ Department ] Articles
From the World of Fitness & Wellness By Jamar Edge Director of Fitness & Wellness Greetings and salutations to you all!!! I will be brief this month, but I do have some great tidbits and exciting news for you.
Self Defense Class
Due to popular demand, we are bringing back Self Defense (Martial Arts) classes. We look to make this a permanent class on the schedule versus an abbreviated program. We are partnering with Values Martial Arts to provide you with a Martial Arts/Self Defense program specific to homeowners in an active adult community. Class will begin the first week of April, so make sure you pay special attention to the dates noted in the calendar and the schedule under the Fitness page of SolivitaHOA.com.
from their passion for teaching others the fun and energetic Ballroom dances. Norty demonstrated the heat and passion of the Merengue, the beautiful simplicity of the Waltz, the complexity of the Tango, and the energy of Swing. Norty taught two nights a week for over four years and during that time over 200 students passed through his classes. Thank you Norty and Agi! You will be missed!
Health Awareness Month
April is Awareness Month to a number of important initiatives (26 based on my research). Initiatives like Adults Learning to Swim Month, Minority Health Month, Alcohol Awareness Month, Testicular Cancer Awareness Month, National Public Health Week (April 1-7), and World Health Day (April 7th), just to name a few. I challenge you to do some research and see how you can be of assistance in supporting one of these initiatives.
Norty Hyman
Smiles and tears were prominent recently in the Riviera Spa & Fitness Center lobby as 54 Solivita dancers gathered to honor and say thanks to their dance instructor, 92-year-old Norty Hyman and his beautiful wife Agi. Norty and Agi are retiring
Norty & Agi Hyman
Make sure you get out and enjoy the month of April and all that it brings. I’m going fishing...see you later! Jamar Edge 863-496-3522 jedge@evergreen-LM.com
Solivita Yard of the Month Every month a new yard in a different neighborhood will be chosen and awarded Yard of the Month by the Green Thumbs Club. The March Yard of the Month goes to Beth and Don Kelleher at 341 Acadia Drive. The Kellehers received a Solivita gift card provided by Joe Poziemski from Curb-Centric Landscape Edging & Design. In May, the Green Thumbs Club will have a caravan visiting some of the Yards of the Month and other residents’ yards. If you would like to show off your landscape, please contact DaveDaubert@aol.com or call 863-496-1909.
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Reflections | April 2019 |
[ Department] Articles
Goodbye Jeri
By Sheri Wollschlager Club Manager I am very sad to announce that Jeri Benchoff passed away on March 9th at the age of 97. She moved into Solivita with her daughter Judy and son-in-law Laurence in 2000. She loved Solivita. She was my first volunteer when I started here in 2001 and continued volunteering until her passing. She loved taking tickets at the door for events. And she loved making sure residents had their IDs at movie night. No one was going to get by her. The Activities Team and I will truly miss Jeri.
Committee Roundup Solivita Lifestyles Activities Committee
The Silent Disco Dance held in late January of this year was a huge success. Though we only had 120 residents in attendance, mostly due to the confused understanding of the concept, they were the happiest people ever seen at an event. The ability to select from three channels on the headphones, allowed everyone to select the music they enjoyed. Some people slow danced, while others jammed out. When attendees decided to take a break, they took their headphones off and could talk without yelling across the table. The best part was the individualized volume control on every headset. Every person in the room had the absolute best time and hopes that Activities schedules another one again soon. Another popular event discussed is the Solivita Pub Crawl! To keep things fresh and fun, two pubs will be removed with two new ones. Ideas thrown around include: Studio 54, Comedy and a Jazz Club. Also discussed was the tight space in the Gator Room. To make it more comfortable, the food and bar will be in the Gator Room while the entertainment will be in the Bistro. The Western Country Bar will remain in the pub crawl list, but will move to the dance floor side of the Ballroom for more room to line dance. Pubs that will remain in the 2019 line-up include: Biker Bar, Karaoke Bar and Latin Club. Save Friday, September 20th in your calendar! The holiday color theme in the Ballroom for 2020 being discussed is a combination of red, lime green, silver and white. The 2019 holiday color theme has been decided and finalized as silver, gold and white. The Solivita community Christmas Tree on the grassy knoll outside the Ballroom will be revamped to contain
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round ball ornaments optionally designed by Solivita Clubs and Neighborhood Groups. More details will come later. The New Year’s Eve Street Party has become one of the most popular ticketed events in the last few years. Within an hour at Main Ticket Sales last year, 270 Ballroom and Mosaics dinner tickets were all sold. Brainstorming ideas suggested include: scaling the menu and wine offering down to allow for additional seating and/or adding the Art Gallery as an additional venue. If the Art Gallery is added as an additional venue, it will be beautifully decorated and will have the same menu as the Ballroom and Mosaics. To give feedback, suggestions, ideas or comments on any Lifestyles event, we’d love to hear from you by emailing us at LifestylesAdvisoryCommittee@SolivitaHOA.com.
Fitness & Wellness Committee
At the last committee meeting, the following was discussed: • A Self-Defense Class is in the works; • Two new classes will be added to the Fitness Schedule; • Discussion is continuing regarding a Beginning Class for Weights and Proper Form; • A Tap Dance Class has been canceled as the wood floors in our facilities are not what is needed; • In February, tree cutbacks and tree routes were taken care of on the Pickleball Courts; and • A new coat rack and cubbies have been added at The Palms. Comments/suggestions can be emailed to WellnessCommittee@ SolivitaHOA.com.
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[ Department ] Articles
Jesters & Bunnies on the Loose!! By Shelley Destefano Community Concierge
Humorist Larry Wilde began National Humor Month in April, back in 1976. He did so to make people aware of the health benefits associated with laughter. Personally, I couldn’t be happier that there are health benefits associated with laughter. To think that there are people who think that I am not aware of my health? Think again! A good sense of humor will also get you through April Fool’s Day on the first of the month. Our prankers better know that we have our eyes wide open! Some events and important dates are another thing to fixate upon, so check out what’s going on this month below!
Easter
Happy Easter to all my Solivita Peeps on Sunday, April 21st. This is the only time we put all our eggs in one basket...especially those eggs filled with our favorite indulgences! Hopefully everyone has a full basket and a full table of family and friends with whom to share this special day.
Spring Fiesta in the Park
This free, pet-friendly event includes artist and crafter booths, food vendors, live music, a huge children’s play area and more. The event takes place on Saturday, April 6th and Sunday, April 7th from 10am-5pm at Lake Eola Park (512 East Washington Street, Orlando, FL 32801). For more information, visit www. fiestainthepark.com or call 407-246-4484.
Lake Eola Park ©www.orlando.gov
Lake Eola Park
If you don’t enjoy a crowd, you can always visit the park from 6am to 11:59pm another day. They have swan pedal boats that
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you can rent Sunday-Tuesday from 10am-7pm and WednesdaySaturday from 10am-9pm. Every Sunday from 10am-4pm, they have a farmer’s market as well. You can park for free on the street or park at the paid parking garage on S. Osceola Avenue.
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
Medieval Times is a two-hour dinner show with Spanish horses and authentic sword fights and jousting. It has been around since 1983. Are you hungry yet? I hope you are because it is a fourcourse feast! Medieval Times is located at 4510 W. Vine Street, Kissimmee, FL 34746. To make reservations, visit our special link at drawbridge.medievaltimes.com/partner/EVRGRENLM. You can take advantage of at least 30% off adult tickets and at least 25% off children ages 3-12 years old all year round. You must purchase the tickets through the link though! A $5 processing fee will also be waived per ticket in addition to the discounted tickets. If you are going with 15 people or more, you will get a special rate by contacting Shammira Colon, Sales Manager at 407-396-2900, ext. 2123 or Shammira.Colon@medievaltimes. com. For more information about Medieval Times, please visit medievaltimes.com or call 407-396-2900.
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival
If you have a green thumb, you might enjoy going to Epcot during the International Flower & Garden Festival. Epcot is one of my favorite Disney parks anyway and it will be in full bloom for this festival from now until June 3rd. Disney is offering Florida residents a three-day Discover Disney ticket for $175 with the option to add the fourth day for $20 more. Once the tickets are purchased you will have the option to use them any time until June 20th. Please visit disneyworld.disney.go.com or call 407939-5277 from 7am-11pm for more information. The park is located at 200 Epcot Center Drive, Orlando, FL 32821. I love Easter and every bunny I share it with! It’s going to be a month filled with joy, fun and happiness. It is just never enough even though my sense of humor will have to overflow out of that basket sending me hopping through all the other months of the year. Don’t forget to leave your joyful bunny trail for someone else to follow! Community Concierge 863-427-7100 sdestefano@evergreen-LM.com
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[ Department] Articles
April in Solivita
By Brad Thompson Branch Manager, Floralawn Spring officially sprung a few weeks ago, and our days are getting warm again. Here’s what Floralawn crews have been up to recently. We completed the year’s first application of weed control and fertilizer on schedule. The controls we applied target those weeds that emerge in early spring. The fertilizer replenishes the soil with nutrients needed by grass after the winter. Tree-trimming crews completed the annual property-wide pruning of crape myrtles. Solivita has hundreds of crape myrtles that grow throughout the community; it takes our crews a full two months to prune them all. We also completed the native grass pruning, including the Fakahatchee mounds that grow in many of the medians in Solivita. Rejuvenational pruning is a late winter chore that our crews undertake annually. This kind of pruning is done on plants that get long and leggy (they have growth at their tops but are bare or sparse at the bottom). Floralawn crews do rejuvenational pruning on plants around Solivita that include Gold Mound, Arboricola, Viburnum, Tibouchina, and Downy Jasmine. Sometimes we’ll take a shrub down to half its height to reach areas of full growth and to spur new, thick growth.
What’s Coming Up This Month?
In April, we return to our regular weekly mowing of residential lawns and common area turf. We continue with weekly mowing of the turf around all ponds. We also begin gearing up for the summer, preparing for the increased growing activity of lawns, shrubs, trees, palms, ornamental grasses, and bedding plants. We’ll be purchasing additional equipment to keep pace with the work as well as hiring new employees to round out our crews. These new employees are carefully vetted so that we bring on the best of the best. With a complete roster of employees, we’ll have seven maintenance crews and seven detail crews. These are the men and women who work hard every day to ensure that the residential and common areas of Solivita maintain their awardwinning appearance. Please come to our next Coffee Talk in the Starlite Ballroom at 9am on April 19th. See you there!
Our crews have almost completed the current round of sod and plant replacements. In any given year, we conduct plant and sod audits, recording where plants and turf have undergone stress and are either damaged or dead. We replace the plants and grass in several installations over the course of the year.
FRIENDS WHO HAVE LEFT US, BUT ARE NOT FORGOTTEN Doreen Evans Barbara Sibblis Evans
Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the residents who recently passed away.
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Sibblis
LEAVING FOR SUMMER? If you are returning to your second home for the summer, please remember to notify the Membership Department via email at SolivitaMembership@ evergreen-LM.com or call 863-427-7143.
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[ Department ] Articles
CAP Program
Submitted by Citizen’s Assisted Patrol of Solivita
On April 22nd, Solivita will host the county wide meeting of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Citizen’s Assisted Patrol (CAP). CAP is a program started by the Sheriff’s Office using volunteers on patrol to assist law enforcement officers in combating crime throughout the county. CAP volunteers patrol the unincorporated areas of the county using specially marked golf carts and patrol cars acting as extra eyes and ears for law enforcement.
We had 12 members with 50-100 hours, 13 members with 100200, 1 member with 200-300, 1 member with 300-500 hours, and 1 member with over 1,100 hours. The savings of volunteers over paid deputies results in a savings to taxpayers of over $356,847.
CAP volunteers are provided with uniforms. Volunteers do not carry weapons and have no law enforcement powers. All CAP volunteers are subjected to background checks and must participate in training. Any resident who is at least 18 years old may become a member of the CAP program, provided they are of good moral character, free of felony conviction and successfully complete the application, background and training process. We have 67 CAP communities throughout Polk County at this time. Not only are they in the unincorporated areas of the county, but also in the cities of Lakeland, Winter Haven, Haines City, Lake Wales, and Dundee. This extremely successful program assists the Sheriff ’s Office in deterring crime by providing highly visible patrols who report suspicious activities to the Emergency Communications Center and district supervisors. There are currently 80 members in the Solivita unit of the Citizen’s Assisted Patrol. These dedicated volunteers patrol the streets of Solivita in our two cars - Car 46 and Car 239. The total amount of hours for the last 12 months was 5,247 hours.
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There are eight members who will be celebrating their 10th year of volunteering for the Citizen’s Assisted Patrol during 2019. These include Lynn and Barbara Scherr, Lois Sell, Arthur and Diane Zysk, Betty Everard, Karen Veasley and Connie Whitaker. As you can see, CAP membership is a diverse mix of couples, women, men, snowbirds and permanent residents. The first step to becoming a CAP member is completion of a four page application which is submitted to the Sheriff’s Office. They verify the information with a number of law enforcement agencies in a process that takes about six weeks. When the application is approved, the new member must attend a six
Reflections | April 2019 |
[ Department] Articles
hour training session, held at various locations and times in the county. Topics that may be covered include Communications, Patrol Techniques, Report Writing, Crime Prevention and Patrol Vehicle Safety. After successfully completing the county training, volunteers will have a two-three hour training in Solivita with our trainer Dave Moore. Our patrols are scheduled online using the Teamup calendar. You just open the program and it will show you what cars and hours are already taken and you can select when and how long you want to patrol. The patrols are non-confrontational as our mantra is “Observe and Report.” During the patrols we are looking for that situation that just doesn’t look right, that person acting suspiciously, that vehicle parked where it shouldn’t be, or a dangerous situation. All the cars have a direct cell phone to Dispatch who will get a deputy to handle things. If a deputy is not required, we may contact Floralawn, Vital Security or write up a report for follow up with Evergreen or the Sheriff’s Office.
License Plate Recognition and Transponders By Vickie Kellogg Membership Coordinator
Is Vickie looking for you or hiding from you? Are you still using your transponder? Is your vehicle registered on the LPR system? Does LPR work for you without the transponder? Currently in Solivita, we are running both the License Plate Recognition (LPR) system and transponders for gate access. The goal with the LPR system from the beginning was to eliminate the transponders and tighten up security since transponders are mobile and can be passed around. With the LPR in place, on May 1st we will be turning off transponders in the community. If you are on the “trouble” list, then Membership will re-activate the transponder for that vehicle. Please either visit Membership with your transponder or call so that we can assign one specific transponder per vehicle having issues. You will have access with your transponder at the main gate, Venezia and Bella Viana. I realize this is still inconvenient and frankly annoying for those of you that still have trouble using the LPR. We are continuing to work with the engineer. If you have not registered your car with Membership for the LPR system, please do so. If you are having an issue, please contact Membership at 863-427-7143 or email solivitamembership@evergreen-LM.com.
While most of the patrols are done in our two cars, it is possible to use your golf cart, with signage and a blinking light available. You can patrol on your bike or even do a walking patrol. You must wear your uniform and must notify dispatch that you are out on patrol. Meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month in the meeting room on the second floor of the Riviera Spa (RSF2) at 12:30pm. One of the Deputy Sheriffs assigned to Solivita usually joins us to answer questions and provide guidance. The next meeting is May 14th. See our club webpage on SolivitaHOA.com for the most current information and photos. For applications or further information, please contact Lynn Scherr at 863-4272666 or lynn0113@verizon.net.
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Residents that are not having issues with the LPR system, please turn in your transponders at the Concierge Desk in the Administration Building or The Palms. It is imperative that all vehicles used in Solivita be registered in the License Plate Recognition system. Vehicles attempting to enter Solivita after May 1st using transponders will not gain access.
Vickie Kellogg 863-427-7143 vkellogg@evergreen-LM.com
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[ Department ] Articles
The Resource Center is Here for You! Spring Cleaning
Contact the Resident to Resident Resource Center to get a list of organizations that welcome your donations. The list defines what items each organization will accept along with whether they will pick up your heavy items and contact information.
Handouts
Handouts are available on SolivitaHOA.com, under the “Lifestyles” icon > “Resource Center.” The webpage will give you access to informational flyers that have been handed out at workshops, including “Getting Around” decluttering tips, and the list of Senior Discounts.
Upcoming Workshops
The topic for the April 18th workshop is “It’s a Scary World Out There.” Join us in the Ballroom at 3:30pm. See the ad on page 3 for more information. The topic for the May workshop is “I’m Retired, Now What,” which is scheduled for May 30th in the Ballroom. The workshops are open to all residents. Register by calling the R2R office or send an email to SolivitaR2R@gmail.com. R2R Resource Center 863-236-9973 SolivitaR2R@gmail.com
Be Prepared – Have a Fire Extinguisher Submitted by the Solivita CERT Team
We all should have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen, one in the garage (easy to get at while outdoors), and another in your car. The most useful and popular type is type ABC (displayed prominently on the device) which can be used for: • Common combustibles (A), • Liquids and gases (B) and • Energized electrical devices (C) These can be found in most home improvement and hardware stores. A dry chemical type should be shaken every few months to keep the powder from settling. Keep the one in your kitchen at eye level in plain sight from the range (not hidden in the pantry or a cabinet where you lose time searching for it). Other extinguisher types include D for combustible metals (like magnesium used in newer cars) and K for cooking oils (e.g., kitchen). Most extinguishers today are throw-away. Look for the expiration date or pressure gauge to determine if you need a new one.
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The easiest way to extinguish a stove-top fire is to put a lid on the pan or pot or cover it with a wet dishtowel. Do not put a burning pan under the faucet! Never try to carry a burning pan outside; you will burn yourself and start even more fires when burning fluid spills or you drop the pan along the way. To use a fire extinguisher remember: PASS P – Pull the pin A – Aim at the base of the fire S – Squeeze the handle S – Sweep back and forth across the flames Only use an extinguisher if the fire is smaller than a waste can and AFTER someone has called 9-1-1. This safety tip is from your Solivita Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). Visit our club webpage on SolivitaHOA. com or one of our monthly meetings (see the Calendar Insert in Reflections) for more information on preparedness.
Reflections | April 2019 |
[ Department]
Spa Talk: Which Order of Exfoliation Do You Choose?
Articles
By Crystal Bethea Owner of Riviera Spa Massage
Serious About Your Skin?
We all have some idea about facial peels. The truth is, one peel doesn’t fit all. Deeper peels are considered in and out medical procedures and are provided by medical caregivers. Our esthetician would analyze your skin and customize your facial process, complete with pre and post care. This customization is important in determining whether mechanical exfoliation, enzymes, peels, or all three are required based on your skin’s condition and desired results. Based on medical conditions and medications, some may not be a candidate for chemical exfoliation. Not to worry! Based on our findings, simple protocols and alternatives can give you long lasting and amazing results.
What’s the Difference?
Mechanical exfoliation uses devices like our microdermabrasion or our sonic scrubber to resurface the top layer of skin. We offer a selection of chemical peels, one being our 20% lactic acid peel (a milk based product that’s great for hydrating and a superb lightener), our 30% glycolic peel (excellent for cell renewal and minimizes pores), the cranberry turnover peel (reduces oil with a 20% salicylic acid mixture and a powerhouse
product for exfoliation), and last, our 10% TCA depigmentation peel (excellent at retexturing and very effective in delivering lighteners down to the melanocyte without traumatizing the skin). Also, our collection of exfoliating enzymes offer a powerful boost to any facial or peel, adding much needed circulation and balance to the skin.
The Order Makes the Difference
Let’s say you have rough, dry skin and closed comedones. We would suggest doing an enzyme/peel first to soften the stratum corneum and mechanical exfoliation second to remove more of the surface of the skin for a softer and more polished look. Or, if you have resilient skin, pigmentation and texture issues, we would consider using an enzyme first to soften, mechanical exfoliation second to polish, and a peel third for ultimate penetration to the melanocyte for more flaking for retexturing. We take the work out of you deciding and customize the best plan for dynamite results!
Riviera Spa Massage 407-914-9168 info@rivieraspamassage.com
11th Annual Walk/Run for a Cure Was a Big Success Thank you to all of the 470 generous Solivita supporters of the Walk/Run for a Cure that took place on February 16th. A big “Thank You” also goes to the 32 children, parents and teachers from Palmetto Elementary School that participated (see the picture to the right, submitted by Tony Handler). The weather cooperated and we had a great day! We surpassed our participant total from last year, which was 400 people, and even had some great supporters that have done the event all 11 years. We also surpassed our donation total, raising over $12,000, with all proceeds going to the American Cancer Society to help fund the research to find the cure for cancer!
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[ Solivita Information ]
COMMUNITY EVENTS
UPCOMING WELLNESS EVENTS DATE
ACTIVITY
Monday, April 1st 2pm • The Palms Wednesday, April 3rd 10am • RSF2
Wednesday, April 3rd 2pm • RSF2
Wednesday, April 10th 10am • RSF2
Wednesday, April 10th 2pm • RSF2
Wednesday, April 17th 10am • RSF2
Wednesday, April 17th 2pm • RSF2
Wednesday, April 24th 10am • RSF2
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Oils of Ancient Scripture: Riviera Spa Massage, Crystal Bethea. Come and enjoy the beautiful aromas and intriguing histories of these precious and pure essential oils. Ten oils from the most significant plants, botanicals, materials and resins in the Bible. Please RSVP to 407-914-9168. Living in Retirement: Cadwell Wealth. Scott E. Cadwell, CFP, CPA CEO and founder, will present “A Guide to Maintaining Financial Health and Independence in Retirement.” First Aid For Pets: Bellalago Veterinary Hospital. Basic first aid for our furry family members. Dr. Young will show the basics for dealing with choking, breathing issues, lack of heartbeat, poisoning, seizures, snake bites, burns, bleeding, heatstroke, and other common injuries. Attendees will receive a Quick Reference Guide and a list of items for their pet’s first aid kit. Skin Sense: Florida Dermatology. Stephan Thornton, MSN, ARNP-C, from Florida Dermatology and Skin Cancer Centers, will speak about why and how to take good care of our skin. Stephan will explain the types of skin cancer, and how we get it. He will also discuss other dermatology concerns such as dry skin, acne, rosacea, shingles, eczema, and non-cancerous growths. Stephan will share why it’s important to examine our skin monthly, what to look for, and the value of professional skin screenings. Estate Planning Seminar: Henderson Sachs, P.A. Attorney Dan Henderson will explain the purpose of Wills, Trusts, and Powers of Attorney as well as the probate process in Florida. Legal issues regarding Healthcare Surrogates and end of life choices will also be discussed. The presentation will be followed by a question and answers session. Please RSVP to Henderson Sachs at 407-850-2500. Do I Have a Hernia?: Poinciana Medical Center. Dr. Owen Kieran, General Surgeon at our employed physician practice, Medical Specialty Group at Poinciana, discusses common hernia symptoms and provides tips on diagnosing the seriousness of any potential hernias. After the lecture, he will host an open Q&A. RSVP to 1-888-253-8117. Keys to Successful Weight Loss: Riviera Spa Massage. Lecture by Dr. David Orman. Issues surrounding weight now affect nearly 2 out of every 3 American adults and nearly 50% of children. Obesity contributes to at least 80% of every illness and is the main factor in many. The great news is that substantial improvement can be made with virtually everyone. There are safe, effective and steady ways that individuals can reduce their body fat, increase muscle tone, eliminate sugar cravings and thus, improve their overall wellness. In this lecture, Dr. Orman will cover the five main factors and what can be done to address this issue: 1) Specific foods for your body type; 2) Correct exercise for your body type/chemistry; 3) Correctly design nutritional protocols and treatments; and 4) Emotions and how they greatly impact overall success. Peace of Mind: Osceola Memory Gardens. Joe McGoldrick and Maribel Sanchez invite you to learn how planning for your final wishes may shield your family from unnecessary emotional and financial burden. Join us and learn more about pre-arrangements, veteran benefits, payment plans, cremation, burials and more. RSVP to Osceola Memory Gardens at 407-931-4811.
Reflections | April 2019 |