FEBRUARY 2020 VOLUME 20 ISSUE 2
[ Department ] Articles
REFLECTIONS
ON THE COVER Did you know that we need leap years to keep our calendar in alignment with the earth’s revolutions around the sun? At Solivita, Leap Year means being active, having fun and leaping up and down! Photos by Judie Chiappone, Bill Labita and Joe Thomas.
FEBRUARY 2020 VOLUME 20 ISSUE 2
VILLAGE CENTER HOURS
CONTACT LIST Community Manager (Association) - Rudy Bautista: 863-701-2969 or rbautista@evergreen-LM.com
Administration: 863-427-7100 Monday-Friday 9am-5pm
Club Manager - Sheri Wollschlager: 863-427-7129 or swollschlager@evergreen-LM.com
K&M Drugs: 863-496-7930 Monday-Friday 9am-6pm Saturday 9am-1pm and Sunday Closed
Director of Association Site Services for Solivita - Matt McCoy: 863-427-7103 or mmccoy@evergreen-LM.com
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 Riviera Spa Massage: 407-914-9168 Monday-Thursday 8am-8pm Friday 8am-7pm, Saturday-Sunday 9am-6pm Solivita Club After Hours Emergency Phone Number: 863-286-8779 Weekdays 5pm-8pm and Weekends 12pm-5pm Starlite Ballroom Daily 8am-11pm Stonegate Pro Shop: 863-427-7150, ext. 4710 Daily 7am-5pm
Director of Safety & Security - Madalyn Colon: 863-440-7572 or madalync@vitalsecurity.com Communications - Doug Gilbert: 863-427-7137 or solivitacommunications@evergreen-LM.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 Catering & Banquets (Stonegate Golf Club): 863-427-7150, ext. 4720 Concierge: 863-427-7100 or Fax: 863-496-4456 Floralawn: 863-225-9565 or floralawn.com (Submit a Work Order) Floralawn Irrigation Emergency After Hours: 863-225-9565 (Starting at 5pm all calls get routed directly to the on-call manager) K&M Drugs: 863-496-7930 or Fax: 863-496-7931
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)
Membership: 863-427-7143 or solivitamembership@evergreen-LM.com
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
Riviera Spa Massage: 407-914-9168 or info@rivieraspamassage.com
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
|2|
Mosaics Restaurant: 863-427-7150, ext. 4720 or option #5 Resident to Resident Resource Center: 863-236-9973 or SolivitaR2R@gmail.com
Security Gatehouses Supervisor: 407-989-2417 Bella Viana Gate: 407-603-2422 Main Gate: 407-603-2399 Parkway Gate: 863-286-0329 South Gate (Marigold): 863-496-1473 Venezia Gate: 407-603-2397 West Gate (San Clemente): 863-496-1453 Solivita Sales: 863-427-7000
The Palms Amenity Center: 863-496-1530 or Fax: 863-496-0914 Violations & Compliance: 863-427-7032 Visitor/Vendor Gate Access Voice Server: 863-313-1314
[ Solivita Information] FEBRUARY TABLE OF CONTENTS Newsletter Submission & Advertising Info ............................ Page 3 Department Articles .............................................................. Pages 4-20 Solivita University .................................................................... Pages 8-10 Community Events ............................................................... Pages 21-27 Relay For Life Events ....................................................... Pages 21-23 Mosaics Special Nights ............................................................ Page 24 Wellness Events ................................................................ Pages 26-27 A Touch of Class .................................................................... Pages 27-32 Club & Support Group Meeting Lists ........................... Pages 32-37 Club News ............................................................................... Pages 37-59 Resident Kudos ............................................................................... Page 59 Advertisements .................................................................. Pages 60-100 Activities Events (back of calendar) ................ Insert Pages E1-E3 A Night at the Movies ..................................................... Insert Page E1 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 Activities Events) ........................ Insert
Let’s Get Our Hands Dirty... COMMUNITY GARDEN SPRING PLANTER BOX RENTAL
March – August 2020 $50, includes $25 refundable deposit $25 for renewing gardeners Planter Box: 4’ x 6’ x 24” & 32” H Applications available in Activities Office and SolivitaHOA.com under Lifestyles. Applications and payment due February 12th at Activities Office. Gardeners are picked by drawing on February 20th.
NEW NEWSLETTER SUBMISSION EMAIL ADDRESS Email submissions to reflections@evergreen-LM.com
MARCH SUBMISSIONS
Calendar submissions and newsletter articles are due on Friday, January 31st. Club insert copies are due by Thursday, February 20th. All inserts must be approved by Club Manager, Sheri Wollschlager (email to swollschlager@evergreen-LM.com) or Communications Director, Doug Gilbert (email to solivitacommunications@ evergreen-LM.com) before they are copied.
APRIL SUBMISSIONS
Calendar submissions and newsletter articles are due on Friday, February 28th.
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 ad at the one-month rate ($115). The resident rate is $57.50 for the 1/8 page ad 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 Doug Gilbert at solivitacommunications@evergreen-LM.com or stop by the Communications Office.
Reflections | February 2020 |
|3|
[ Department ] Articles
Activities Updates & Reminders By Jana Malik Director of Activities
I
Activities Team
In past articles, I have expressed my love for my family, my career, and my high appreciation of the Solivita volunteers. This year, I’d like to show how much I the Activities team who are as dedicated to the community, the residents and the Activities program, from the time they walk in the door, to the time they leave. When I first started working here in 2004, the team consisted of only two Activities Specialists and the Activities Director. Now, the team has grown to three Activities Specialists, one Activities Audio/Visual Specialist and one Activities Director. Working with a team can be challenging, but I am fortunate to work with a group of people who are not only talented, creative and fun, but have a “let’s do it” attitude and are not afraid to try new things. This is the best team that I have worked with in my 15 years at Solivita.
Hey there Solivita! I am originally from Brooklyn, New York, and moved to Florida with my family in 2005. I graduated from Liberty High School in Poinciana, FL and I am currently a part-time student at Valencia College. My goal is to transfer to USF majoring in Biomedical Science to pursue a career as a Pharmacist. In my spare time, I enjoy anything that has to do with adventure and taking on new challenges. Something interesting about me is that I have a twin sister, my mother is also a twin and we all work at different communities for Evergreen Lifestyles Management. When I was 10
Brandon with twin sister Brittany and mom Liz.
Pictured above: Activities Team at Evergreen Lifestyles Management Appreciation Party 2019. Photo by Snap! Studio Booth. Pictured below: Activities Team at the 2019 Car Show. Photo by Flipbook People.
Beginning this month and continuing over the next few months, I will be highlighting each of the Activities team members so that you can get to know them a bit better. First, is Brandon Payne who was just announced the 2019 Solivita Employee of the Year at the Solivita Evergreen Lifestyles Management Staff Holiday Party.
|4|
years old, I often volunteered at the Bellalago community where I met Sheri Wollschlager, currently Solivita’s Club Manager, who at the time was managing that community as the Activities Director at the same time as Solivita. In August of 2015, I was given the opportunity to work at Solivita as a Lifestyles Attendant at The Palms and Riviera Spa Fitness Center. In 2016, I transferred to the Activities office as an Activities Specialist where most of you may have had the opportunity to become acquainted with me through booking club events and working Activities events. Fast forward to 2018 when I was promoted to Activities Audio/Visual Specialist and have been enjoying improving and building our A/V program throughout the entire community! The year 2019 has been a great one for me and I look forward to another year of growth and improvement alongside the Activities Team.
Club Presidents’ Meeting
The mandatory annual Club Presidents’ Meeting will take place Continued on page 5
Reflections | February 2020 |
[ Department] Articles
Jana’s article continued from page 4 on Tuesday, February 18th at 3pm in the Ballroom. Save the date for the President or a representative and an additional member to attend. Please arrive up to 15 minutes before the start of the meeting to check-in and to check contact information is accurate.
Road & Building Closings For Events
Road Closings: Village Center from the Ballroom to the Pro Shop Roundabout will be closed to vehicle traffic during times posted below. • Tuesday, February 4th: Solivita Olympics Opening Ceremony - Road closed 3:30pm-7:30pm • Saturday, February 8th: Solivita Olympics Closing Ceremony - Road closed 3:30pm-5pm • Tuesday, February 25th: Mardi Gras Parade & Street Party - Road closed 3pm-10pm Building Closings: The following closing times are for event setup and will reopen for ticket holders only.
Reflections | February 2020 |
• Friday, February 14th: Progressive Valentine’s Day Moulin
Rouge Dinner Dance » Riviera Spa & Fitness Center will close at 4pm » The Grille at Stonegate will close at 1:30pm
Rays of Service Solivita Volunteers
Turn in your Volunteer Log Sheets by Monday, March 2nd for volunteer hours worked, assisting Solivita Departments, from March 1, 2019 to February 29, 2020 to the Activities Office to finalize the 2019-2020 season.
Show your Love and Keep The Party Going!!! Jana Malik 863-427-7125 jmalik@evergreen-LM.com
|5|
[ Department ] Articles
Chef’s Corner
By Chef Curtis Hillard CEC, CPC Executive Chef, Stonegate Golf Club
Did You Know….
In the United States, there are more than 1,000 different varieties of cherry trees, almost all of them blossoming over a threeweek period in late May and early June. Of those 1,000, only about 10 varieties are produced commercially, but they’re put to good use: every tree produces about 7,000 cherries or, if you prefer to think about it in real terms, about thirty pies’ worth. The American crop of more than 300 million pounds of cherries—of which almost 75% come from Michigan—has no shortage of health benefits. Like most fruit, they are fat-, sodium-, and cholesterol-free, and they are also a particularly good source of Vitamin C and potassium. Rich in bioflavonoids and other antioxidants, raw fresh cherries maintain many of their antioxidant qualities if frozen immediately after harvest. Luckily, freezing not only preserves but also concentrates and improves the taste. Each cherry tree produces about 30 pies’ worth of fruit each year. Darker cherries have higher antioxidant and vitamin
levels than lighter ones, but sour cherries, which are generally bright red rather than a darker red-purple in color, have far higher levels than sweet.
Cherry-Peach Dumplings
INGREDIENTS • 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling • 1/2 cup water • 2 tablespoons lemon juice • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves • 1 can (15.25 ounces) sliced peaches, drained • 1 large egg, room temperature • Whole milk • 1 1/2 cups biscuit/baking mix • Optional: Cinnamon and whipped cream DIRECTIONS 1. In a 10-inch skillet, combine the first five ingredients. Add peaches; bring to a boil. 2. Place egg in a 1-cup measuring cup; add enough milk to measure 1/2 cup and stir until combined. 3. Place biscuit mix in a bowl; stir in milk mixture with a fork just until moistened. 4. Drop by six spoonfuls over top of boiling fruit. Simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes. 5. Cover and simmer until a toothpick inserted in a dumpling comes out clean, about 10 minutes longer. 6. Sprinkle with cinnamon, if desired. Serve warm, with whipped cream, if desired. Curtis Hillard 863-427-7150, ext. 4717 chef@stonegategolf.com
SPEED ENFORCEMENT IN SOLIVITA The HOA, Security, and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office receive multiple complaints of speeding each week from residents. The Sheriff’s Office has been asked for their assistance in speed enforcement. Receiving a speeding ticket is not only financially costly, but can lead to much more serious results. A driver is six times more likely to have an accident when traveling at 25% above the posted speed limit. Speeding reduces the amount of time to avoid a crash and increases the severity of a crash once it occurs.
|6|
Reflections | February 2020 |
[ Department] Articles
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4TH SOLIVITA OLYMPICS OPENING CEREMONY Let’s open the Solivita Olympics with a parade starting from the Ballroom to the Pro Shop, live entertainment, food for purchase from Solivita Club and Neighborhood Groups and a cash bar. The parade will highlight the torchbearers and the Solivita Clubs, groups, participants and volunteers who are involved and supporting the Solivita Olympic games. The end of the parade will feature the last torchbearer carrying the torch to light the cauldron located in the Pro Shop roundabout. The cauldron will stay on during the entire Olympics. Parade participants are to meet in the Freedom Park parking lot (where the Farmers Market is held) by 3:30pm. The parade will start at 4pm. After the parade ends, we celebrate with an International themed street party with food and music provided by several Solivita groups who will be in several areas (more information next month). Wear your country of origin’s hat, shirt or colors and be part of this momentous event. Free entrance from 4pm-7pm. Guests of all ages welcome. RAIN OR SHINE. VEHICLE TRAFFIC WILL CLOSE FROM 3:30PM-7:30PM, EXCEPT TO VENDORS FOR SETUP. To register in the Solivita Olympics, forms are available at the Activities Office, the Riviera Spa & Fitness Center, and The Palms. Forms may be returned to same locations.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5TH •
9am – Chess – Baltic Room
•
9am – Cycling – Freedom Park
•
9:30am – 5K Walk – Freedom Park
•
2pm-4pm – Bid Whist – Gator Room
•
6:30pm-8pm – Water Volleyball - RSF Indoor Pool
Reflections | February 2020 |
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6TH •
8am-12pm - Tennis: Men’s Doubles & Finals - Freedom Park
•
12pm-2pm – Phase 10 – Lago Vista Clubhouse
•
1pm-5pm – Bridge: Open – Caspian Room
•
8:30am - Pickleball: Women’s Doubles - Freedom Park
•
6:30pm-8pm – Water Volleyball - RSF Indoor Pool
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7TH •
8:30am – Pickleball: Men’s Doubles - Freedom Park
•
9am-10:30am – Dragon Boat Race – Boat Dock behind Bistro
•
10am-2pm- Billiards: 8 Ball Open A & B - Billiards Gallery
•
10:30am – Softball Throw – Softball Field
•
12pm - Hot Shot Hoops – Bell Tower Crossing Net
•
2pm-4pm – Table Tennis: Single, Men, Women and Mixed Doubles - RSF
•
4pm-6:30pm – Water Volleyball - RSF Indoor Pool
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8TH •
8am-12pm - Tennis: Mixed Women’s Doubles & Finals Freedom Park
•
8am-12pm - Tennis: Mixed Doubles & Finals - Freedom Park
•
8:30am – Pickleball: Mixed Doubles – Freedom Park
•
9am-1pm – Swimming: Backstroke, Breaststroke and Freestyle - RSF Indoor Pool
•
10am-1pm – Power Lifting: Bench Press & Dead Lift The Palms Amenity
•
11am-2pm – Poker: Seven Card Stud - Aegean Room
•
10am-2pm - Billiards: 9 Ball Open A & B - Billiards Gallery
•
1pm-5pm – Bridge: Team – Caspian Room
•
3pm-5pm – Water Volleyball - RSF Indoor Pool
•
3pm-6pm – Poker: Texas Hold ‘Em - Aegean Room
•
4pm – Closing Ceremony - All Are Welcome: Extinguishing the Cauldron and Photos - Pro Shop Roundabout
Village Drive will be closed from 3:30pm-5pm for the Closing Ceremony. For more information, call Brenda Lockley, 863-438-2808 or 301-2338294; Pamela Sykes, 215-740-5505; or Bernice Dillard, 863-427-4480.
|7|
[ Solivita University ]
Co-Sponsored by the Solivita University Committee and 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 Calendars and Maps and then choose Activities Events and Solivita University Classes. March courses will open for registration starting on Monday, February 3rd. February courses are on sale now. For more information, to register for courses or purchase annual passes by cash, check or credit card, please visit the Activities Office or call 863-427-7125.
Great Decisions Discussions 2020 Annual Pass
Each year the Foreign Policy Association produces a study guide with eight of the most critical global issues facing America. Great Decisions (GD) is an annual ticketed pass offering eight discussions that meets monthly January-May and September-November. The discussion of the month is conducted by moderator Thomas Gallagher Ph. D. The 2020 GD Annual Pass cost is $39 (or $44 for two sharing a book). Discussion Topic: India and Pakistan. India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi rode a wave of Hindu nationalism to a historic reelection in 2019. His first order of business was to revoke the special status granted to the Kashmir region, inflaming the rivalry between India and Pakistan. How will the Kashmir situation affect the region, both economically and politically? • Tuesday, February 4th at 11am in the Gator Room • Wednesday, February 26th at 4pm at The Palms
Art and Literary Lecture 2020 Annual Pass
This pass will allow residents admittance to any of approximately 13 Art and Literary Lectures starting in January 2020 for $20 per person. Art lectures are presented by Art Historian Jan Clanton and Literary Lectures are taught by resident Professor Thomas Gallagher. If you
|8|
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. Next Art Lectures in the Ballroom at 1pm: • Tuesday, February 11th: The Whitney Museum of American Art. Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitley was an artist from a very wealthy family who decided to open a museum in NYC dedicated to only show American Art.
The Whitney Museum of American Art. Editorial credit: ARTYOORAN / Shutterstock.com
• Tuesday, March 17th: The Kimbell Art Museum Next Literary Lectures in the Gator Room at 4pm: • Monday, February 24th: Superpower by Ian Bremmer. This book provides a clear and incisive way to think about America’s role in the world. Should it focus on its interest, its values or on its domestic needs? A must read for all concerned with the 21st century geopolitical landscape. • Monday, March 23rd: Fire and Fury by Michael Wolff
Reflections | February 2020 |
[ Solivita University] “Come Write With Us” Writing Workshop
Thursdays, February 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th Gator Room at 1:30pm Tuition: $25 per student Presenters: Gail Buntin Blohowiak, BA in Creative Communication and a MEAS in Linguistics from the University of Madison and Green Bay Wisconsin. Playwright and Author of Let Them Eat SPAM; Revenge of SPAM; Death by SPAM; and The Family Jewels. Kathy Joyce Glascott, MS in Education from the State University of New York College at Buffalo, is the author of Loving Christy, Elvis Saves a Marriage and Other Short Stories, and Widow’s Weeds, the Note. Course Description: This four-week workshop is designed for writers at any level of development. Do you have a story, poem or idea for a play stashed away somewhere? Have you dreamt of writing the great American novel—or the story of your life? Maybe you have an idea for a blog but can never seem to find the time to just sit down and write. Here’s your chance to explore writing in a fun and safe environment right here in Solivita.
Join two experienced writers for a writing workshop where you will have the opportunity to put your words on paper, share them with other writers and learn to fine tune many aspects of the art of writing. By the end of the workshop, you will have produced a piece of writing to present to others and maybe even found a writing partner for future projects.
Fiestas in the Americas: Festivals, Dance, Music and Art
Fridays, February 14th, 21st and 28th Gator Room at 10:30am Tuition: $20 per student Professor: Dr. Cecilia Rodríguez Milanés was born in New
Reflections | February 2020 |
Jersey to Cuban parents. Educated in Miami and New York, her fiction, nonfiction, and poetry appear in numerous journals and anthologies. Her short story collections, Oye What I’m Gonna Tell You from Ig Publishers, which released Marielitos, Balseros, and Other Exiles in 2009, were #4 and #5 on the Guardian’s list of 10 of the best books to help understand Cuba. Everyday Chica, winner of the 2010 Longleaf Press Poetry Prize was followed by Everyday Chica, Music and More, a poetry CD set to Caribbean folk music was released in 2011. She is a Professor of English and Creative Writing at the University of Central Florida in Orlando where she lives with her family.
Course Description: This class will focus on Mexico, Brazil and Puerto Rico and their most beloved and popular festivals and celebrations. Included will be an examination of Mexico’s Day of the Dead traditions—sugar skulls, calavera art and ofrendas; the music and dance associated with Carnival in Brazil such as samba and parade floats; and Puerto Rico’s folkloric celebrations incorporating plena and bomba music and dance, and vejigante mask art and costumes
Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam
Tuesdays, March 10th, 17th and 24th The Palms at 1pm Tuition: $20 per student Professor: Joyce Salisbury, PhD, Solivita resident and retired professor of history and religious studies has written more than ten books and has lectured all over the world.
Joyce Salisbury, PhD
Continued on page 10
|9|
[ Solivita University ] Continued from pages 8-9 Course Description: Billions of people around the world follow these world religions, and this course will offer some understanding about their beliefs. It will begin with the oldest urban religion -- Hinduism -- that began long before historical time. Today, Hinduism is the 3rd largest religion, with about 900 million adherents. Then, we will look at Buddhism that emerged out of Hinduism in the sixth century BC and spread all over the world in the subsequent centuries. Today, there are about 535 million Buddhists. Finally, we will consider Islam that began in AD seventh century with the visions of the prophet Muhammad. Today, Islam is the second largest religion with about 1.8 billion followers.
The Borinqueneers Film Documentary Encore Presentation by popular demand
Tuesday, March 31st Ballroom at 1pm Tuition: Complimentary entrance, pre-registration not required Film Producer, Director, Writer and Class Presenter: Solivita resident Noemi Figueroa Soulet is an experienced advertising consultant and producer to major advertising agencies for the Hispanic commercial market. Born in Puerto Rico, she was raised in New York’s Spanish Harlem and has a degree in Education from NYU and a Certificate in Digital Filmmaking from SUNY Westchester Community College.
Social Security Basics
Thursdays, March 12th and 19th Gator Room at 6:30pm Tuition: $7 per student Professor: Lita Epstein, author of the book The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Social Security and Medicare, has been writing about Social Security for 17 years. Course Description: Should you take Social Security as soon as possible, wait for full retirement or delay it to get higher monthly income? Review of the strategies for when to take Social Security.
Class Description: The Borinqueneers chronicles the neverbefore told story of the Puerto Rican 65th Infantry Regiment, the only all-Hispanic unit in U.S. Army history. Through compelling interviews and rare archival footage, this film explores the unique experience of the 65th, culminating in the Korean War and the dramatic events that would threaten its very existence. Having performed with distinction early in the Korean War, the Borinqueneers of the 65th would face their greatest challenge in the fall of 1952, when more than 100 soldiers were arrested. Nine years in the making, this award-winning film was aired nationally on PBS, the Pentagon Channel and on the Armed Forces Network. There will be an archival photo display and a question-andanswer session with the participation of a Borinqueneer veteran following the film.
| 10 |
Reflections | February 2020 |
[ Department]
Holiday House Lighting Contest Winners Articles
First Place
Joe
5
Second Place
John & Mar y Lou
ad Criscola Shelton & T
681 Glendora Ro
ia ay in Venez 1 2 B ellini W
Congratulations
Third Place
Townsend
ad in Te rra Vist a
Fourth Place
to the Merry and Brightly shining winners of the 2019 Solivita House Lighting Contest!
Honorable Mention
Joseph and Angela Hare 528 Murano Drive in Venezia
D
e Richardso eeDee & Mik
1 16 A malfi
Malcolm & A pril
n
V ia na L ane in B ella
Smith
os sing E. 107 Be ll Towe r Cr w La ke s bo in in Ra
Reflections | February 2020 |
Fifth Place Tie
Tony & J a 5 43 Ro b
ne t C opp
in P lace
ola
in C apri
G ene & Kathy Bu
121 Sorre nto Ro ad in Be lla Viana
rch
| 11 |
[ Department ] Articles
The R2R Resource Center is Here for You! Accessing R2R Info on SolivitaHOA.com
Great information is just a click away on the Resident to Resident (R2R) Resource Center page of the Solivita HOA website. • Visit SolivitaHOA.com • From the Home Page, click on “GET CONNECTED” • Click the “R2R RESOURCE CENTER” icon • Select any of the headings on the left to find specific information about your desired topic
February Workshop: “Everything but Polar Bears: Understanding the Animals and Plants Around Solivita”
Friday, February 14th • 10am • Ballroom If you’ve wondered what to do about the armadillo that is digging in your garden, or whether that snake on your lawn is poisonous; if you’ve wondered what grows in Florida’s sandy soil, or what is growing in your neighbor’s yard; if you can’t tell a crane from a heron or a hawk from a vulture ... we suggest you sign up now for the Resource Center’s February workshop on “Everything but Polar Bears: Understanding the Animals and Plants Around Solivita.” Wildlife experts will discuss how we can live a harmonious coexistence with animals that sometimes scare us and sometimes annoy us. If you understand them, your life will be more interesting and peaceful.
Assisting Solivita Residents in 2019
We accomplished a lot in 2019, from providing informative workshops and lending out medical equipment, to handling numerous phone calls and answering questions. Our volunteers went above and beyond assisting the residents of Solivita. Thank you to the many volunteers who keep R2R going!
Workshop & Medical Equipment Loaner Program Summary: • 950 residents attended the R2R workshops • 321 residents borrowed medical equipment (e.g., wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, shower benches, etc.)
| 12 |
Agricultural experts will talk about what does and doesn’t grow in Florida and what you need to do to surround yourself with flourishing plants and flowers. You can even learn exactly when blueberries, strawberries and other crops are in season. Many of us are transplants and still getting used to anoles, alligators and Sandhill cranes, birds-of-paradise, hibiscus and 15 different varieties of palm trees. We promise you’ll learn a lot about this place we call home. The workshop will begin at 10am on Friday, February 14th in the Ballroom. All R2R Resource Center Workshops are free to Solivita residents, but advance registration is requested. Please call 863-236-9973 or email solivitaR2R@gmail.com to reserve your spot. Walk-ins will be accommodated as space permits.
R2R Resource Center 863-236-9973 SolivitaR2R@gmail.com
Reflections | February 2020 |
Reflections |  February 2020 |
| 13 |
[ Department ] Articles
An Affectionate Month
By Shelley Destefano Community Concierge Make sure you express your affection all month and not just on Valentine’s Day! There are so many things to love in life including life itself. I love my daily blessings, food, friendship, job, family, and those who need love in their life. I could probably write a whole page of things I love, but who wants to hear that? Everyone already knows I talk too much! Create space in your life and fill it with love! If you are not feeling it, you may fill that empty space with important dates or things to do in the area this month.
Orlando Museum of Art
Visit the Orlando Museum of Art (located at 2416 N. Mills Avenue, Orlando, Florida 32803) on Saturday, February 1st and Sunday, February 2nd from 12pm-4pm and enjoy a cultural experience for FREE thanks to Bank of America’s Museums on Us! Bank of America and Merrill Lynch cardholders will receive free admission by presenting their debit or credit card, along with a photo ID at the front desk. Visit omart.org/visit/museums_ on_us for more information.
Groundhog Day
Punxsutawney Phil is the famous groundhog who predicts winter or early spring on February 2nd every year in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. If he sees his shadow and returns to his hole, supposedly, we get six more weeks of winter. If he doesn’t see his shadow, we get an early spring. This holiday has been celebrated since 1887. The real question is how many Punxsutawney Phil’s have they stuffed since 1887?
Presidents’ Day
Originally, Presidents’ Day was celebrated in honor of Washington’s and Lincoln’s birthdays. Over the years it became known as Presidents’ Day, honoring all of the presidents. The Administration Office will close on Monday, February 17th in honor of Presidents’ Day.
Flags Over Solivita
Presidents’ Day will mark the first time in 2020 that “Flags Over Solivita,” ran by the Solivita Veterans Club, will put up flags. If you want to get a flag, please visit the Concierge Desk for the form and mailing envelope. The deadline to turn your application in to receive a flag for Presidents’ Day is February 1st. You just have
| 14 |
to make a check out to VCS with a donation of $25 or more and mail it to Veterans Club of Solivita, P.O. Box 581770, Poinciana, FL 34758. They also put flags up on Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, Labor Day through 9/11, and Veterans Day. That is six times a year for $25 dollars. The dollar store cannot beat that deal! The money also goes to a good cause and is tax deductible. Contact the Veterans Club at flagsoversolivita@ gmail.com or 863-512-3655 for more information.
Osceola County Fair and Livestock Show
Visit the Osceola County Fair February 14th-23rd, located at 1911 Kissimmee Valley Lane, Kissimmee, FL 34744. Ticket prices are $8 for adults, $5 for seniors and children, and kids 4 and under are free. Visit osceolacountyfair.com or call 321-6973050 for more information.
Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras is on Tuesday, February 25th this year. Does anyone know where the best place is to celebrate Mardi Gras? New Orleans! Wrong! It’s Solivita. We really must give our Activities Department a hand. They do such an amazing job putting events together for Solivita! Check out all the event details on page E2.
Florida Strawberry Festival
You can eat all the strawberries your tummy desires at the Strawberry Festival (located at 303 BerryFest Place, Plant City, FL 33563). The festival is February 27th through March 8th from 10am-10pm daily. Get the family together and enjoy rides, concerts, shows, contests, food, livestock shows and more. Gate Admission is free for children 5 and under, $5 for children ages 6 to 12 years of age, and $10 for adults ages 13 and up. On March 1st, Reba McEntire will have a concert at 7:30pm at the Strawberry Festival. Visit flstrawberryfestival.com or call 813752-9194 for more information.
Local Chili Cookoffs
On February 22nd, from 12pm-5pm, the International Chili Society will have competitors compete from different states at the Kissimmee Sunshine Regional Chili Cookoff located at the Kissimmee Lakefront Park, 201 Lakeview Drive. At this event, you can enjoy live music, a beer garden, kids activity zone, local Continued on page 15
Reflections | February 2020 |
[ Department] Articles
Shelley’s article continued from page 14
vendors, and a $5 chili tasting. Visit chilicookoff.com/cookoffs or call 407-518-2503 for more information. If you can’t make that event but want your chili fix, on February 29th from 11:30am-3pm, you can go to Chili on the Ridge located at 555 Ledwith Avenue in Haines City. You can enjoy live music from the Steel Horse Band, beer, food vendors and activities for kids at this annual event. For just $10 per person you can sample all the chili you want from the chili teams and vote on your favorite chili. For a $25 entry fee and at least four gallons of chili, you can enter a chili team. Visit hainescity.com/187/Chili-
on-the-Ridge or call 863-421-3700 for more information. Guess what though?? I have seen so much love in this community, so I am not worried about affection in Solivita. Just make sure you make all those that are dear to you know that you care about them. Expose that heart and share it with the world this month because love is meant to be shared especially with those you adore. Happy Valentine’s Day Solivita! Community Concierge 863-427-7100 sdestefano@evergreen-LM.com
Our Winter Tasks
By Brad Thompson Branch Manager, Floralawn Are you loving our Florida winter weather? If you’re like me, as I watch news reports of snow and ice up north, it makes me glad for our mild temperatures and sunny skies. Our Floralawn crews continue to work hard on landscaping tasks around Solivita during the winter. Many of you are out and about, taking advantage of the great weather, and we’re committed to keeping your outdoor spaces beautiful in all seasons.
What We Did in January
Last month we kept busy with fertilizing the turf grass throughout Solivita. At Floralawn, we follow an annual fertilizing cycle, with the first application put down over January and February. Implementing this schedule results in thick, healthy grass in the spring. In January, we also completed another round of trimming and weeding and continued the bi-monthly mowing schedule. Over the winter is when we conduct a thorough examination of the irrigation system in Solivita. As you can imagine, this is a huge job to check the pipes, pumps, valves, and spray heads that deliver water to all homes and common areas throughout the community. We completed the initial inspection in January plus the repair of many of the spray heads. Along with spray head repair, we also corrected spray patterns.
Reflections | February 2020 |
What We’re Doing in February
Regarding the irrigation audit, in February we’re finishing up repairs and corrections that didn’t get done last month. By the end of February, the irrigation system will be fully serviced and ready for another year of optimum delivery. This month we start pruning the crape myrtle trees throughout Solivita. There are hundreds of crape myrtles in the community, so this job takes us through March to complete. A February task that we enjoy is changing out the annuals in all the common area beds. Residents like the change of color as well.
Training our Crews
Winter is when we hire new Floralawn crew members and give training to both new and established employees. We call our training the “Floralawn University.” Our crews learn shrub and tree pruning techniques, best mulching practices, safe driving of lawn equipment, safe use of landscaping tools, proper mowing techniques, how to install plants and identify diseases, and how to mix and apply herbicides. Sometimes Floralawn offers these classes to Solivita residents. Check our online calendar to see when classes are scheduled. Questions? Call us at 863-225-9569.
| 15 |
[ Department ] Articles
Solivita's
Neighborhood Heroes The Dillards: Leading By Example Written by Martha Cusimano, Solivita Resident Every day our lives intersect with others, we make choices and decisions that determine how our life will unfold. The lives of our two neighborhood heroes were crossed by some blessed intersections. Intersection - a point at which one or more things intersect.
Intersection #1
Intersection #2
Bernice Richardson, Virginia native, moved to Philadelphia and attended the William H. Shoemaker Junior High School in West Philadelphia. One day she sat next to a boy named Stanley Dillard in science class and they fell in love. Bernice went on to attend the Philadelphia High School for Girls, which focused on a pre-college track for gifted young women, and enrolled at LaSalle University in the nursing curriculum.
Stanley Dillard, applied for a job at IBM in Philadelphia in the fall of 1964. The hiring manager said bluntly, “The only reason I’m hiring you is that you demonstrated you were qualified ... because it’s the law.” Three years earlier, on March 6, 1961, President Kennedy issued Executive Order 10925, which established his President’s Committee on Equal Employment Opportunity. It said, “Whereas discrimination because of race, creed, color or national origin is contrary to the Constitutional principles and policies of the United States ... it is the plain and positive obligation of the United States Government to promote and ensure equal opportunity for all qualified persons....” Kennedy’s words mattered. They intersected with and dramatically changed Stanley’s life.
On track to finish college, Bernice ran out of funds. Stanley, the boy from her science class, gave her his tuition money, delaying his college completion by 12 years. Bernice became the second in her family of 10 to graduate from college, earning a BSN from LaSalle University in 1965, and later an MSN from the prestigious University of Bernice Pennsylvania in 1994. She began her career as an RN at Philadelphia General Hospital, later becoming a nurse practitioner. This gifted nurse worked at the University of Pennsylvania, Rutgers University, Philadelphia Department of Health, and Polk County Health Department (FL) among others. That powerful intersection of lives in a science classroom led to a distinguished nursing career; a wedding at St. Gregory’s Roman Catholic Church in Philadelphia; three gifted children; and a 55year marriage that’s still going strong.
| 16 |
Stanley started as a paper boy for the Philadelphia Bulletin; graduated from Overbrook High School; and became the first in his family to graduate from college, earning a BA in management from Eastern University. His career started at IBM, thanks in part to President Kennedy, followed by 43 years in the pharmaceutical industry, with Smith, Kline & French, DOW, 3M, and Eli Lilly, among others. Continued on page 17
Stanley & Bernice
Reflections | February 2020 |
[ Department] Articles
Intersection #3 The Dillards moved to Solivita in 2011 and fully engaged in their new community. Bernice is a charter member of the Solivita Polk County Chapter of the Continental Society, Inc., a national organization founded by a group of African American professional women at a time when black women were not accepted in many sororities. The Continentals run the Solivita Olympics to raise funds for their outreach activities, including scholarships and book awards to graduating seniors; exercise, etiquette programs and golf clinics for underserved and at risk children in Poinciana; tutoring at Palmetto Elementary for 9 years; bringing the Colgate Dental Van to the school, along with a theatre company to discuss theatre with the students, a reading contest and assistance for the school nurse.
Stanley became a member of the Rotary Club of Poinciana, serving two terms as president and became interested in providing AEDs for Solivita and the surrounding area. An AED is an automated external defibrillator, which helps those experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. That interest led to the cofounding of Solivita Showtime Entertainers to produce annual fundraising shows to purchase AEDs. Six years later, there are 85 AEDs in the region at churches, the Association of Poinciana Villages, all over Solivita, and several people are alive because of the availability of the devices. The Dillards are members of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church and the Solivita Democratic Club. They love being with their family: Karen, a graduate of Northeastern University; Mary, a graduate of Stanford, with a PhD from UCLA; and S. Phillip, a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and the University of Chicago Business School. They enjoy reading, politics, dancing, and intersecting with friends and community every single day.
You Can Support the Work of These Neighborhood Heroes Solivita Olympics
Tuesday-Saturday, February 4th-8th For information, call 863-427-4480 and see page 7 for the schedule of events.
Chris Cosby & Stanley
Stanley is Chairman of the Board of Poinciana Medical Center. Chris Cosby, Chief Executive Officer, Poinciana Medical Center, had this to say, “Stanley Dillard is someone that I have the utmost respect for and a man of high integrity. He has been a true blessing to Poinciana Medical Center and the Solivita Community!”
Solivita Showtime Entertainers Present: Let the Good Times Roll Show
Thursday, February 27th at 2pm; Friday, February 28th and Saturday, February 29th at 7pm in the Ballroom For tickets, call 863-588-7015. For more information, see the Community Events section on page 24.
FRIENDS WHO HAVE LEFT US, BUT ARE NOT FORGOTTEN
Hans Backert
Linda Walters Byrd
Reflections | February 2020 |
Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the residents who recently passed away.
Howard P. Carstens
David Roy
| 17 |
[ Department ] Articles
Daylight Saving: Replace Smoke Detector Batteries Submitted by the Solivita CERT Team
As we have since 2006, your Community Emergency Response Team is again offering to replace the batteries in your smoke detectors. We offer this to residents who can’t or shouldn’t go up on a ladder to do this. This project runs from March through April (maybe into May).
Yard of the Month We visited the Verona neighborhood this month to choose our latest Solivita Yard of the Month. Liz Pingel at 768 Pacific Ridge has been showcasing her beautiful front yard for years. Take a ride and visit her lovely yard and enjoy the beauty of a well-designed planting and colorful scheme. Liz will be presented a gift certificate for being chosen. Are you the next winner?
Before you call to have your batteries replaced, consider how old they are (when your house was constructed). If you are wondering why, it is because smoke detectors only work for about eight years. Then their detection sensors degrade to the point that they may not detect smoke! If your detectors are too old, replace them rather than their batteries (a new one comes with a battery). Be sure to buy units that are “wired, with battery back-up.” They should cost about $16 each and are available at local home improvement stores. Unless you have a fireplace or other source of combustion inside your home, you do not need a carbon monoxide (CO) detector. If your detectors aren’t too old, you need to replace the 9-volt battery in each one (once a year). When the battery loses its charge with age, the unit will begin an annoying chirp sound every 45 seconds or so. Taking the battery out won’t help because that just assures the unit will find inadequate (zero) voltage. We hope you have us replace your batteries now rather than call later in the year when they start that annoying chirping. If you change your own batteries, be sure to observe the polarity and press the test button afterward to reset the unit (hold the button till the unit alarms, then release). CERT offers this service in the spring—THIS IS YOUR CHANCE! If you want to have your batteries changed (with your batteries or ours), call CERT at 863-5146728 any weekday morning to get your name, address and phone number on the list. You will be called back to arrange the visit.
| 18 |
Reflections | February 2020 |
Committee Roundup
Solivita Lifestyles Activities Committee (SLAC) Please welcome the 2020 SLAC Committee members: Doug Hellebuyck, Diane Smith, Irwin Zalko, Karla Wisinski, Richard Goldsmith, Vickie Freece and Victoria Johnson-Taylor.
Huge thank you to outgoing 2019 SLAC members: Susie Quattrochi, Stanley Dillard and Pat Perry.
[ Department] Articles
Walk/Run for a Cure Saturday, February 22nd at 9am
It’s that time of year again when Tony Handler (11time cancer survivor) and his wife Narda (3-time cancer survivor), along with the Cancer Support Group and the Solivita FitWell Team, invite you to join them on February 22nd for the 12th ANNUAL WALK/ RUN FOR A CURE. All contributions (minimum of $15 donation), will include a T-shirt for everyone who registers by Wednesday, February 5th. The donations will go directly to the American Cancer Society to help fund the research and programs needed to find a cure for cancer. The event is being co-sponsored by the Solivita Fitness & Wellness Department. Many thanks to Sheri, Jana, Jamar, and their staffs for making this event possible. This event is not a race! You can either walk 2 miles (or any shorter distance that you are comfortable with), run/jog 3 miles, or just come out to support this good cause and cheer on the walkers and runners. Water will be provided on the course and there will be snacks at the finish line. Sign in and shirt pickup will be between 8am and 9am with the Walk/Run starting at 9am in the Welcome Center courtyard behind the Administration Building.
To give feedback, suggestions, ideas or comments on any Activities event, we’d love to hear from you by emailing us at LifestylesAdvisoryCommittee@SolivitaHOA.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 10-13 seconds.
Reflections | February 2020 |
The registration form is available at the Concierge Desk in the Administration Building in the Village, at The Palms and also at the Riviera Spa & Fitness Center. This event has proven to be a community supported gathering of friends, neighbors, and supporters wanting to help in the fight against cancer. Last year we had over 480 participants, many of which were Solivita clubs and social groups. So, get your group and friends together and join the fun. Let’s beat that record this year and help fund the research that might someday beat this disease! Contact Tony or Narda (863-427-4345) with questions.
| 19 |
[ Department ] Articles
Spa Talk: You Are Wonderfully Made… Stop Judging Yourself By Crystal Bethea Owner, Riviera Spa Massage
Acknowledgement
This month is symbolic for showing love, appreciation and gratitude to our special someone and loved ones. In the mix of generous gift cards and spa reservations, somehow, we intentionally exclude ourselves. Feelings of unworthiness and poor self image have been the guilty culprit for not receiving. Just the other day at our front desk, I witnessed the thoughtful planning of someone’s husband customizing a spa package for his wife. We were in awe of his intentions to wow her and mentioned that he should experience this with her. His response was “Oh nooo .… nobody wants to put their hands on this body.” The sad part about this is that we hear comments of this nature a lot. Massage suits you too! YES YOU!
compassionate and understand the wellness value that massage has on the lymphatic, body systems and mobility.
Take it Easy
The problem with negative self image is that it feels like a fact. Imagine trying to convince someone that water isn’t really water at all but soda? Yea … not going to get many believers on that wagon with you. The next time you find yourself hesitating because you feel like you are afraid or unworthy, rationalize it. The hard truth is, real progress comes from taking care of yourself and doing what’s hard. Real progress certainly doesn’t come from avoidance. Bridge the gap between the physical and emotional- schedule your massage today.
The Truth Is
None of us are perfect. Scars, stretch marks, various sizes, things you would consider flaws, are merely a story that tells us that you are survivors. As life will have it, most of us won’t go unscathed. We should always hold our heads up high because of that and honor our strengths that endured. We see this every day. As massage therapists, we specialize in the anatomy of the human body and judgment doesn’t exist in our thought process. I can assure you that the thought of you disrobing for a massage is often more intimidating than the reality. Our therapists are
Flags Over Solivita - Sign Up or Renew for 2020 The Veterans Club of Solivita has a project to display the U.S. Flag in front of your home within Solivita to recognize and celebrate five selected National Holidays throughout the year, including Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, Labor Day through 9/11, and Veterans Day. For a $25 yearly contribution, the club will place a 3’ x 5’ U.S. Flag in front of resident homes, on designated holidays in designated locations. Applications are available on SolivitaHOA.com (under the Veterans Club webpage), on 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 if you have any questions, email flagsoversolivita@gmail.com or call 863-512-3655.
| 20 |
Reflections | February 2020 |
[ Department] Articles
Reflections |  February 2020 |
| 21 |