JANUARY 2020 VOLUME 20 ISSUE 1
[ Department ] Articles
ON THE COVER Happy New Year Solivita! We hope you enjoyed the Holiday Season and are ready for a roaring good time in 2020!
REFLECTIONS JANUARY 2020 VOLUME 20 ISSUE 1
CONTACT LIST VILLAGE CENTER HOURS
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
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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] JANUARY TABLE OF CONTENTS Newsletter Submission & Advertising Info ............................ Page 3 Department Articles .............................................................. Pages 4-21 Solivita University ................................................................. Pages 14-17 Community Events ............................................................... Pages 21-27 Relay For Life Events ......................................................... Page 21-22 Mosaics Special Nights ........................................................... Page 23 Wellness Events .................................................................. Page 26-27 A Touch of Class .................................................................... Pages 27-31 Club & Support Group Meeting Lists ............................ Pages 31-36 Club News ............................................................................... Pages 36-56 Neighborhood News ............................................................. Page 56-57 Resident Kudos ....................................................................... Page 57-58 Advertisements ..................................................................... Pages 58-96 Activities Events (back of calendar) ................ Insert Pages E1-E3
NEW NEWSLETTER SUBMISSION EMAIL ADDRESS Email submissions to reflections@evergreen-LM.com
FEBRUARY SUBMISSIONS
Calendar submissions and newsletter articles are due on Thursday, January 2nd. Club insert copies are due by Friday, January 24th. All inserts must be approved by Club Manager, Sheri Wollschlager (email to swollschlager@ evergreen-LM.com) or Communications Director, Doug Gilbert (email to solivitacommunications@evergreenLM.com) before they are copied.
MARCH SUBMISSIONS
Calendar submissions and newsletter articles are due on Friday, January 31st.
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
CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS As a friendly reminder, all holiday lighting and decorations placed upon the exterior portions of the home and the lot need be removed no later than January 15th.
DON’T SEE YOUR CLUB MEETING ON THE CALENDAR INSERT? Here’s why - Solivita Clubs with recurring meetings need to re-submit their information in order to be included in the Reflections Calendar Insert for the 2020 year, as submissions do not carry over to the next calendar year to ensure accuracy of calendar listings. If you would like to be listed on the calendar insert, submit the information to reflections@evergreen-LM. com. Please include the club name, day and date of meeting, time, and location. As a reminder, clubs that made an annual submission for 2019 are NOT automatically carried over.
Reflections | January 2020 |
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.
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[ Department ] Articles
Activities Updates & Reminders By Jana Malik Director of Activities
Is it Already 2020?
I feel like 1999 was just yesterday and everyone was worried about the “Y2K” computer crash. Glad that the U.S. Government and private businesses planned ahead (hint, hint) to avoid a huge economic catastrophe. And now, it is the year 2020! Thought there would be flying cars by now. Might help the Poinciana traffic. Well, instead of that, the world is advancing in more ways than one, and while I am not an expert in those matters, we’ll divert to the Activities Department. This year, we, along with the entire Solivita Team, in one way or another, will be working on throwing the BIGGEST and GRANDEST party of the decade. In October 2020, date TBD, we will be hosting Solivita’s 20th Birthday and what better way to celebrate than by bringing back the Roaring 20’s, Solivita style! Stick around for more details to come, but save that month to be part of a MONUMENTAL celebration!
January Main Ticket Sales
Every year, the January Main Ticket Sales in the Ballroom is held on the 2nd or 3rd business day of the month due to the New Year’s Eve Parties requiring immense setup and cleanup. Therefore, the next Main Ticket Sales Day in the Ballroom will be on Friday, January 3rd.
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Club Presidents’ Meeting
The mandatory annual Club Presidents’ Meeting will take place on Tuesday, February 18th at 3pm in the Ballroom. Save the date for the President or a representative and an additional member to attend. We will be making calls to all clubs this month to review and update clubs’ contact information for our files.
Access to View Solivita Room Calendars
Since last year, we have posted the Solivita Room Calendar as a resource via SolivitaHOA.com, under the Calendar & Maps icon. This helps club officials to view room availability for their club meeting or special event. For residents, you can use this calendar to look for your club meeting (or where it was moved to) or to look for a room to book your private party (select rooms only). You can also send a room request through the website where it will be emailed to the Activities Department for review and confirmation.
If you haven’t tried it out yet, check out what other clubs are seeing on your computer at home or on your smart phone, and save a ton of time. If you need help accessing SolivitaHOA. com, contact or email the Communications office (see page 2 of Reflections for contact information).
Bus Trips Using Freedom Park Parking Lot
If your club is planning a day or an overnight bus trip and some or most members are planning to leave their cars in the Freedom Park parking lot, we need to know about it. After we are informed Continued on page 6
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Reflections |  January 2020 |
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[ Department ] Articles
Jana’s article continued from page 4 about your trip dates, we check the calendar to make sure there aren’t any events planned and we also inform Vital Security so they are aware. Please email me your Editorial credit: Rob Wilson/Shutterstock.com club name, trip destination and the date(s), main contact name and cell phone number. If your trip will be overnight, we require a list of the cars, tag numbers and the owner’s name and cell phone number.
Club Meeting List
Clubs have the option to list their club contact information in the Reflections Club Meeting List section and on SolivitaHOA. com under Get Connected. If you are not listed and would like to, or if you need to change any information in Reflections, email Reflections@Evergreen-LM.com. To have your club added to the website, email Communications. Let’s Roar into 2020 and Keep The Party Going!!! Jana Malik 863-427-7125 jmalik@evergreen-LM.com
Holiday Hours
From All of Us Here at
Tuesday, December 31st New Year’s Eve Admin: Close at 12pm RSF & The Palms: Close at 12pm Fitness Classes: Cancelled Waterfront Galleries: Closed The Grille & Bistro: Close at 2pm Pro Shop: 7am-1pm Wednesday, January 1st New Year’s Day Admin & Activities: Closed RSF & The Palms Fitness: Open at 12pm
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New Year’s Day continued Fitness Classes: Cancelled The Grille & Bistro: Open at 11am Pro Shop: 7am-5pm Friday, January 3rd Main Ticket Sales: 9am in the Ballroom Monday, January 6th Room Reservations for January 2021: 9am in Activities Office
Reflections | January 2020 |
[ Department] Articles
Reflections |  January 2020 |
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[ Department ] Articles
From the World of Fitness & Wellness By Jamar Edge Director of Fitness & Wellness
It’s the New Year and we know what that means...New Year’s Resolutions!!! I’m sure many of us are recovering from holiday travels and festivities, but it’s also a good time to evaluate where you stand health-wise. I’m bringing back some of the items I discovered while researching the New Year Resolution playbook. These tips can be used year round as well.
10 Healthiest New Year’s Resolutions
1. Eat fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, low-fat dairy, and healthy fats 2. Stay in touch with family and friends 3. Quit smoking 4. Be active 5. Cut your stress 6. Volunteer 7. Guard against falls 8. Toast with a smaller glass 9. Get more sleep 10. Give your brain a workout
While the list of potential resolutions goes on and on, I would suggest you choose a few, if not all, and resolve yourself to make those lifestyle adjustments. While making lifestyle adjustments, one that can be added in addition to the tips above is our Fast Track Program. If you are unfamiliar with this program, I encourage you to stop by and inquire with Jonathan or Zena for more details and to setup an assessment. The Fast Track Program is a great way of having a fitness program customized just for you. For those of you who love a little healthy competition, consider our “Partner Up” option of the program. On a final note, I just want to extend a Happy 2020 to you all and I’m excited about what the Fitness and Wellness team is looking to bring to Solivita for the New Year.
Walk/Run for a Cure Save the Date: Saturday, February 22nd
It’s that time of year again when Tony Handler (11-time 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 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. 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! Don’t hesitate to call Tony or Narda at 863-427-4345 with any questions.
Jamar Edge 863-496-3522 jedge@evergreen-LM.com
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Reflections | January 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 Farmer’s 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 AT 2PM, 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. REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS JANUARY 3, 2020!
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5TH •
9am – Cycling – Freedom Park
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9:30am – 5K Walk – Freedom Park
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2pm-4pm – Bid Whist – Gator Room
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6:30pm-8pm – Water Volleyball - RSF Indoor Pool
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6TH •
8am-12pm - Tennis: Men’s Doubles & Finals - Freedom Park
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12pm-2pm – Phase 10 – Lago Vista Clubhouse
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1pm-5pm – Bridge: Open – Caspian Room
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8:30am - Pickleball: Women’s Doubles - Freedom Park
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6:30pm-8pm – Water Volleyball - RSF Indoor Pool
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7TH •
8:30am – Pickleball: Men’s Doubles - Freedom Park
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9am-10:30am – Dragon Boat Race – Boat Dock behind Bistro
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10am-2pm- Billiards: 8 Ball Open A & B - Billiards Gallery
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10:30am – Softball Throw – Softball Field
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12pm - Hot Shot Hoops – Bell Tower Crossing Net
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2pm-4pm – Table Tennis: Single, Men, Women and Mixed Doubles - RSF
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4pm-6:30pm – Water Volleyball - RSF Indoor Pool
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8TH •
8am-12pm - Tennis: Mixed Women’s Doubles & Finals Freedom Park
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8am-12pm - Tennis: Mixed Doubles & Finals - Freedom Park
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8:30am – Pickleball: Mixed Doubles – Freedom Park
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9am-1pm – Swimming: Backstroke, Breaststroke and Freestyle - RSF Indoor Pool
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10am-1pm – Power Lifting: Bench Press & Dead Lift The Palms Amenity
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11am-2pm – Poker: Seven Card Stud - Aegean Room
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10am-2pm - Billiards: 9 Ball Open A & B - Billiards Gallery
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1pm-5pm – Bridge: Team – Caspian Room
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3pm-5pm – Water Volleyball - RSF Indoor Pool
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3pm-6pm – Poker: Texas Hold ‘Em - Aegean Room
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4pm – Closing Ceremony - All Are Welcome: Extinguishing the Cauldron and Photos - Pro Shop Roundabout
Village Drive will be closed from 3:30pm-4:30pm 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.
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[ Department ] Articles
An Optimistic New Year! By Shelley Destefano Community Concierge
Time for a New Year and for new ideas. Everyone has made a wish list and is starting to open their doors to new opportunities. First off, we should think of all the positive things that happened in 2019. If you had a grey cloud following you last year, imagine it has evaporated. Let all the positive things in life enter through your door and leave the negativity out. Now, for some fun and interesting things to do this month!
North Shore Birding Festival
If you enjoy bird watching, this one is for you! The North Shore Birding Festival on Lake Apopka (24600 County Road, Mount Dora, FL 32757) will be going on from January 16th-20th. You must pre-register to go on the field trips at orangeaudubonfl. org/festival/registration.html. You may view all the trip options on the website, but some of the trip options are $25 for a halfday trip without lunch, $35 for morning half-day trips with lunch, and $60 for a day trip with lunch. For more information, please email festival@orangeaudubonfl. org or call 407-637-2525.
Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Festival
The Kissimmee Lakefront Park (located at 201 Lakeview Drive in Kissimmee) will have a Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Festival on January 18th from 10am-4pm. You can enjoy food trucks, craft vendors and a unity parade at this event. Please visit kissimmee. org/government/parks-recreation/kissimmeeparades-com or call 407-518-2503 for more information.
gomanateefest.com or call 352-795-3149 for more information. I just love manatees; they are harmless, fat and cuddly looking. I hope I get to squeeze one, in a good way, some day.
Cirque du Soleil + Walt Disney World
This spring, set your imagination in motion and get ready for an enlivening collaboration with Cirque du Soleil, Walt Disney Animation Studios and Walt Disney Imagineering, iconic memory makers. Leap into a live acrobatic journey where an animator’s desk becomes the stage and drawings come to life. This love letter to the art of Disney animation is a celebration of life and all of its deliberate and unanticipated movements. You can purchase tickets in advance at cirquedusoleil.com/atwalt-disney-world, and they are not cheap. The show is amazing though, so I wanted you all to know about it.
The Theater ©Disney
If Solivita were a bottle of champagne, it would not be bubbly without each one of you. With that said, I would like to raise my favorite bubbly glass of champagne and say, “Cheers!” to all of you. Happy New Year Solivita!
Florida Manatee Festival
On January 18th-19th, you can go to the 33rd Annual Florida Manatee Festival located at the Historic Downtown Crystal River. It will only be $5 per person and children 12 and under are free. You can enjoy music, food, vendors, boat tours, entertainment and of course manatees. Please visit
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Community Concierge 863-427-7100 sdestefano@evergreen-LM.com
Reflections | January 2020 |
[ Department] Articles
What a fun and successful event we had back in November! We raised over $21,431 for our Salute Our Veterans 2019 charity, Fairways For Warriors. We would not have been able to do it without all the participants, Solivita volunteers, Veterans Club of Solivita and Liberty High School JROTC program. ~ The Salute Our Veterans Club 2019 Committee
Thank You to All Our Sponsors! Patriot Sponsor Art’s Golf Cars, Inc.
Patriot Sponsor Dr. Lama Medical Center
Liberty High School JROTC
Hooters at Florida Central
Taylor Morrison | Evergreen Lifestyles Management | Stonegate Golf Club | Hampton Golf | Affinity Dental Poinciana Medical Center | Cornerstone Hospice | Florida Financial Strategies | Riviera Spa Massage Sunrise Pest Control Services | Vita Produce | Don Rogue Mobile Auto Detailing | K&M Drugs | Culver’s Restaurant Bellissimo Hair Salon & Barbershop | Bobby Jones & Georgia Golf Trail | Tour Edge Golf | Golf Pride
And the Golf Tournament Winners are (in no specific order) ...
1st Place Men’s Team Richardson
2nd Place Men’s Blue Tee Group
1st Place Couples Team Air Force/Navy
2nd Place Couples The Butter Shots
Bob Miller, David Gemmell, Todd Richardson & Jim Richardson Jr.
Bruce Lostocco, Richard Kammann, John Bailey & Willkie Hopkins (not pictured)
Ed Owens, Nancy Owens, Anita Nelson & Keith Nelson
Carroll Hagood, Cynthia Loman, Emily Sylvester & Jerry Sylvester
Closest to the Pin Hole # 4 Shirley Schultz
Closest to the Pin Hole # 7 Connie Reid
Closest to the Pin Hole # 12 Bob Geib
Closest to the Pin Hole # 15 Carol Whitney
Longest Drive White Tee-Hole # 11 John Bailey
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Longest Drive Red Tee-Hole # 11 Al Bynum Photos by Bill Labita
Longest Drive Green Tee-Hole # 11 Cynthia Loman
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[ Department ] Articles
Committee Roundup
Solivita Landscape Committee MISSION STATEMENT: The Solivita Landscape Committee, as representatives for the Solivita Community, strives to assure that the quality, aesthetics and maintenance of the landscape contributes to the overall “Quality of Living” for Solivita residents. The Solivita Landscape Committee (SLC) is an advisory committee composed of volunteers who monitor the HOA landscape management, maintenance, and planning as it pertains to residents’ yards and HOA common ground. Committee members walk, bike or golf cart drive their assigned community area.
Yard of the Month Our Solivita Yard of the Month comes from the Treviso neighborhood. Can you guess which one as you drive through? It is very apparent if you have been there. 127 Via San Luca Court is ablaze in a rainbow of colorful plantings designed, arranged and planted by Stephen and Victoria Costa. Every time we go by their house, we feel a little happier. Great job Costas! Make one of your New Year’s resolutions to brighten everyone’s day with a great streetscape to make Solivita more beautiful. Brad Thompson from Floralawn awarded Stephen and Victoria with a gift card. Are you the next winner?
To assist in doing our tasks with a sense of “knowing what to look for,” the SLC is initiating a training session to enhance our observation skills. The training will consist of reviewing a standardized check list that details the HOA Maintenance Standards and current landscape maintenance contractor (Floralawn) specifications for service. Committee members will participate in an onsite group training with the HOA Manager and Director of Site Services in use of the standardized form. The onsite training will involve looking at mature landscaping, common ground and newly landscaped yards. SLC is dedicated in keeping the Solivita landscape healthy and beautiful! For questions you would like addressed through the Landscape Committee, please contact us at: LandscapeCommittee@SolivitaHOA.com.
FRIENDS WHO HAVE LEFT US, BUT ARE NOT FORGOTTEN
Jerry Long, Jr.
Czarine Hope Tranter
Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the residents who recently passed away. | 12 |
Reflections | January 2020 |
Flags Over Solivita
Sign Up or Renew for 2020
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Submitted by the Veterans Club of Solivita
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he Veterans Club of Solivita is asking for your help through your donations. Among the charities that the Veterans Club of Solivita supports are college scholarships to local ROTC high school seniors; Bingo Games for the facility-bound veterans at the VA Community Living Center at Lake Nona; Free and medically supervised travel to Washington D.C. in the Honor Flight Program for WWII, Korean and Vietnam veterans to visit the memorial that was specifically created to honor their services as well as the services of their fellow comrades who had paid the ultimate sacrifice; USO at the Orlando airport, which provides programs and services for transition back to civilian life, for nurturing hospital care when recovering from a battlefield injury, training accident or even a long illness, and for vital links to information, programming and community support for the healing families. The Veterans Club of Solivita is asking for your donations to help support and further these and other programs. As a thank you for your donation, the Veterans Club members and non-military Solivita volunteer residents will ensure that a 3 x 5 American Flag flies in front of your home six times a year on: President’s Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, Labor Day thru 9/11, and Veterans Day. When your neighbors see the flag flying in front of your home, they will know it symbolizes your love of the flag, your love of country, and your support of the military men and women who have fought and still fight for the freedoms we have and enjoy. Just think of it, an American flag flying in front of every home in Solivita. Over 2,400 flags were displayed throughout Solivita in 2019. Won’t you please help our cause with a $25 yearly taxdeductible contribution? One-hundred percent (100%) of your contribution goes to support these charities and the Veterans Club takes no administrative fees. Note: The flags remain the property of the Veterans Club and it is the club’s responsibility to install, remove, store, care for, and maintain the flags. Applications are available on the Veterans Club webpage on SolivitaHOA.com or at the Concierge Desk. If you would like to volunteer or you have any questions, email flagsoversolivita@gmail.com or call 863-512-3655. Applications along with your $25 check (made payable to VCS) can be mailed to: Veterans Club of Solivita, P.O. Box 581770, Poinciana, FL 34758.
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[ 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. February courses will open for registration starting on Friday, January 3rd. For more information, to register for January courses or purchase annual passes by cash, check or credit card, please visit the Activities Office or call 863-427-7125.
Great Decisions Discussions
Art and Literary Lecture 2020 Annual Pass
2020 Great Decisions Discussion Book
Next Art Lectures in the Ballroom at 1pm: • Tuesday, January 14th: National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C. and Andrew Mellon • Tuesday, February 11th: The Whitney Museum of American Art
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 that takes place on a Wednesday afternoon and/or a Tuesday morning.
The 2020 GD Annual Pass cost will be $39 (or $44 for two sharing a book). The topics for discussion in 2020 will include: Climate Change; India and Pakistan; Red Sea Security; Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery; Northern Triangle; China in Latin America; The Philippines; and Artificial Intelligence. Next Discussion: Climate Change has become one of the defining issues of our time. As much of the world bands together to come up with a plan, the U.S. remains the notable holdout. What is the rest of the world doing to combat climate change? What impact will the effects of climate change have on global geopolitics? • Tuesday, January 7th at 11am in the Gator Room • Wednesday, January 15th at 4pm in The Palms
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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 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 Literary Lectures in the Gator Room at 4pm: • Monday, January 27th: National Security by Marc Cameron • Monday, February 24th: Super Power by Ian Bremmer
Beginners Conversational Spanish CLASS FULL
10-Week Course on Tuesdays Starting on January 7th Venezia at 9am Tuition: Sign up is required in Activities office. Cost of $50 is taken at the first class, which will be returned if student attends
Reflections | January 2020 |
[ Solivita University] eight or more classes. Class Information: Classes are 2 hours long and are limited to 30 students. Instructor: Gloria Muci, Solivita resident Course Description: Have you ever wanted to learn Spanish? This is your opportunity to learn conversational Spanish from the beginning. Study materials will be provided.
Continuing Conversational Spanish
10-Week Course on Thursdays Starting on January 9th Aegean Room at 9am Tuition: Sign up is required in Activities office. Cost of $50 is taken at the first class, which will be returned if student attends eight or more classes. Class Information: Classes are 2 hours long and are limited to 35 students. Instructor: Gloria Muci, Solivita resident Course Description: For those who have some Spanish classes, this is the opportunity to brush up on your Spanish and to advance your language skills. Study materials will be provided.
Word 102
Mondays, January 13th, 20th, 27th and February 3rd Gator Room at 2pm Tuition: $25 per student Instructor: Catherine Larson, a Solivita resident, has taught word processing, spreadsheets and database programs for over 20 years. She has taught in public school, adult education, corporate training and private lessons. She makes learning fun, useful and relatively stress-free! Catherine Larson Course Requirement: Students need to bring their own laptop (Mac or Windows) to participate as they learn. Word from Office 365 will be used to demonstrate; however, all concepts and tools are available on older versions 2007 and higher. Word on Tablets and iPads are acceptable, but all features might not be available. Course Description: This course takes you past basic formatting in Word. We will be inserting tables, graphics, text boxes, section and page breaks into documents. Students will learn the difference between independent and inline graphics and how to control images in documents.
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Excel 102
Tuesdays, January 14th, 21st, 28th and February 4th Gator Room at 4pm Tuition: $25 per student Instructor: Catherine Larson, a Solivita resident, has taught word processing, spreadsheets and database programs for over 20 years. She has taught in public school, adult education, corporate training and private lessons. She makes learning fun, useful and relatively stress-free! Course Requirement: Students need to bring their own laptop (Mac or Windows) to participate as they learn. Excel from Office 365 will be used to demonstrate; however, all concepts and tools are available on older versions 2007 and higher. Excel on Tablets and iPads are acceptable, but all features might not be available. Course Description: This course takes you beyond the basics of creating tables in Excel. You will learn how to sort, filter, create pivot tables and charts from their data and use conditional formatting in cells. In addition, Excel has automated tasks such as finding duplicates and combining cells that can be useful in creating your tables.
History of the Decades Through Film: 1940’s-1970’s
Thursdays, January 16th, 23rd, 30th and February 6th The Palms at 1pm Tuition: $25 per student Professor: Dr. Richard Goldsmith was an award-winning teacher as well as a high school administrator for over 40 years. During his career, he taught AP United States History, AP European History, Cambridge University Sociology, and AP Capstone (critical thinking and Dr. Richard college research paper writing). Goldsmith Course Description: Film not only freezes time, but it makes the characters that appear on both the big screen and little screen both timeless and ageless. We will explore how film reflects society as well as how it impacts society. » The 1940’s were dominated by World War II. Life was tenuous for millions of boys serving in the military,“…live for today, because tomorrow you may not be alive!” » The 1950’s was a period of great prosperity and the rise of the middle class, suburban living, and happy days. It was a time of consensus and change. Continued on page 16
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[ Solivita University ] Continued from pages 14-15
» The 1960’s was a decade of great changes; the anti-
» Week 2: Picking Funds and Managing Your Portfolio.
Vietnam war movement as well as the civil rights movement. Music fundamentally changed in major ways from the doo-wop days of the 50’s. The 1970’s saw the anti-Vietnam war protests morph into nationwide violent protests. Musicians played a key role as their songs reflected the growing anger of young people, such as the song Ohio depicting the Kent State Massacre.
Explore the strategies of choosing the right mutual funds for your retirement portfolio and how to manage that portfolio through retirement.
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Climate Change Videos and Discussions
Wednesdays, January 22nd and 29th The Palms at 10am Tuition: Complimentary course, no pre-registration required Professor: Alan McIlwain has a M.Sc. in nuclear physics from the University of Manitoba in Canada. He spent most of his career working in material science and electronics. He retired and moved here from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland.
Using Mutual Funds to Manage Your Retirement Portfolio
Tuesdays, January 21st and 28th The Palms at 10:30am Tuition: $8 per student Professor: Lita Epstein is the author of more than 45 books, which include “The Pocket Idiot’s Guide to Mutual Funds” and “Streetwise Retirement Planning.”
Course Description: » Week 1: Basics of Using Mutual Funds in Your Retirement Portfolio. Explore the basics of mutual funds such as the various mutual fund types and mutual fund companies, as well as how mutual funds work.
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Course Description: After each week’s video, an informed discussion will take place. » Part 1: This class will feature a YouTube video with Dr. Dan Britt, “The History of Climate.” It is an excellent lecture on the history of Earth’s climate over the past 500 million years, with emphasis on ‘recent’ history over the past 10 million years. This video puts current climate change concerns in perspective. » Part 2: This class will feature a 20 minute YouTube video that picks up where the previous lecture left us. The topic will be, ”Major Sea Level Rises in the Near Future”, by Jason P. Briner. Dr. Briner is an Associate Professor of Geology at the University of Buffalo. His research expertise lies in glaciers and climate, specifically in the Arctic regions. He has been above the Arctic Circle more than 35 times for his research, in the remote corners of Alaska, Arctic Canada, Greenland and Norway.
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[ 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 | January 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
Upcoming Spring 2020 Courses MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Registration opens in the Activities Office a month before each first class date. • Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam: 3-week course starting Tuesday, March 10th at 1pm • Social Security Basics: 2-week course starting Thursday, March 12th at 6:30pm • The Borinqueneers Film Documentary: Tuesday, March 31st at 1pm
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[ Department ] Articles
Spa Talk: Clear Clutter Emotionally and Physically
The R2R Resource Center is Here for You! Workshop: Aging In Place
Tuesday, January 28th • 10am • Ballroom This event is designed to help us all to understand what we can do now -- while we are healthy, active and engaged -- to ensure we can continue to live the lives we choose, in the place we choose, for as long as possible. The workshop will highlight how eating right, staying fit, managing your medications, and creating a safe, well-maintained environment can make a significant impact on your health and happiness for a long time to come. Sometimes, even the smallest step can change how well you “age in place.” Our presenters will not only answer questions, but will also be available to speak with attendees one-on-one. All R2R Resource Center Workshops are free to Solivita residents, but advance registration is requested. Call 863-2369973 or email solivitaR2R@gmail.com to reserve your spot. Walk-ins will be accommodated as space permits.
Transportation Survey
Thank you for taking the time to complete the R2R transportation survey. Your input is very valuable to us. The data is being compiled and reviewed by our Transportation Committee. Our team will continue to work on options for providing new services to meet the needs of Solivita residents now and in the future. Please watch for updates in the R2R section of your Reflections newsletter.
Kid’s Corner
Do you have grandchildren coming to visit? Be sure to check out our collection of children’s books for you to share with your young visitors. Visit the R2R office Monday through Friday from 9am5pm to borrow the perfect book.
Handyman List
If your January plans include some home sprucing up, be sure to call our R2R office at 863-236-9973 to request an updated handyman’s list of local helpers who can help fix that pesky problem. R2R Resource Center 863-236-9973 SolivitaR2R@gmail.com
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By Crystal Bethea Owner, Riviera Spa Massage
Let It Go
There is nothing helpful or healthy about clutter. The burden of clutter can feel heavy and restrictive. So much so that it’s well known for affecting one or many areas of your life - day in and day out. Remember, clutter is anything unwanted, broken, expired, unused, or doesn’t work or fit. You know the struggle is real when you start giving away, selling or just start throwing things out! Who are we holding all that baggage for anyway? Does it serve you? Add de-cluttering to your New Year goals and start simplifying your work, living and emotional space regularly.
On the Flip Side
Clearing clutter is one of the greatest ways to boost your energy, get yourself out of a rut, feel lighter, and improve your health. It’s important to remove obstacles and create space for new and positive things. Clutter clearing is a proven therapy for creating change in your life. January is always a perfect time for a focused clearing session.
Getting Started
The first rule of thumb is don’t overwhelm yourself. There are many tools you can use to help with different areas of the process. Start small and limit your area of target...say a kitchen drawer. A good feng shui read is excellent for reorganizing your living space. Remember to take it a room at a time. For energy clearing and other alternatives, you have support from your very own Holistic Horizons club right here in Solivita. Bodywork, acupuncture and sound therapy from our Spa is always a great compliment to help clear the mind and body. Free yourself and bring in the new. For more information about the Riviera Spa Massage and the services we offer, please visit rivieraspamassage.com or call 407-914-9168. Riviera Spa Massage 407-914-9168 info@rivieraspamassage.com
Reflections | January 2020 |
[ Department] Articles
Wildfires – What To Do Submitted by the Solivita CERT Team
We breathe a sigh after hurricane season, but this is our dry season. Wildfires, like any fire, are a product of fuel, oxygen (air) and heat. Lack of rain turns the landscape into a mass of dry kindling. This means there is a HIGH LIKELIHOOD OF WILDFIRES (RED FLAG WARNINGS). This time of year, the atmosphere also dries out—we even enjoy the low humidity. Even after a shower the dead, dry stalks and leaves do not absorb moisture, leaving the area ripe for fires. Winds speed drying. Regardless of the source, wildfires are dangerous. Solivita is surrounded by undeveloped land and itself contains a large acreage of preserves. ALL THIS GROUND IS A POTENTIAL WILDFIRE ARENA. Fire can travel on the ground or in the trees. The higher it burns, the farther burning debris can travel and reignite. The windier it is, the faster it can burn and travel.
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• DO NOT ASSUME SOMEONE ELSE HAS CALLED IN A FIRE WHEN YOU SEE SMOKE. With the undeveloped land on our boundaries, no one else may have even seen that wisp or column of smoke you see (or smell in the air). So please CALL IN A SIGHTING OF SMOKE TO 9-1-1. Tell the person where you are (or were when you saw the smoke) and what direction it was from that position.
If a Fire Approaches Your Home
• Let your neighbors know. • Use your own hose to wet down the areas of your
Reflections | January 2020 |
property nearest the oncoming fire—yard, roof, shrubs near the house. Be prepared to evacuate! Face your car out of the driveway for rapid exit. Someone in authority will likely ask you to evacuate when deemed necessary. Stay clear of any emergency vehicles that may be responding. Close all window and doors (interior too) to limit spread within the house. Grab a supply of your meds, pets and pet food, and valuable papers (insurance policies, medical records, financial information and related contact information) and emergency kit (you should already have) and get going. These are the same things you should have ready in case of a hurricane. Let friends and family (at least one important contact) know what you are doing and where you plan to go. You may consider relocating to The Palms parking lot or the Village or Freedom Park temporarily. Monitor the news to know when it is safe to return.
This information is provided by your Solivita Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). CERT meets monthly (see the Reflections Calendar insert for time and place). Residents are welcome at all our meetings and new members are invited. Come check us out.
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[ Department ] Articles
Happy New Year, Solivita! By Brad Thompson Branch Manager, Floralawn
Here we are at the year 2020! (Can you believe that?) I hope you had a safe, warm Christmas and a happy New Year celebration. At Floralawn, even though the year is just beginning, we already have a lot going on behind the scenes. Even now, we are getting ready for spring and summer work, acquiring new equipment, rezoning, pre-hiring and setting schedules. Within those categories fall many varied tasks that keep us all busy.
Quick Facts on Fire Ants
Have you noticed that ant mounds have become more visible in Solivita? The reason for this is the cooler temperatures. During the cooler months of the year, the imported fire ants will build the mounds taller, making them visible in the turf to allow the sun to heat the mound. We are currently treating these mounds on a daily basis as needed.
Floralawn University
As stated last month, Brown Patch Fungus (which has been reclassified as “Large Patch” fungus) is still on the move, and we are treating this as needed throughout the property.
During the months of January, February, and March, we will hold training classes here at Solivita. We divide our employees into several small groups and rotate them throughout the property, training them on all the different subjects. Floralawn team members receive training on: • Proper equipment use • Herbicide treatment and the law • Proper shrub pruning techniques • Small equipment use • Crape myrtle pruning techniques
Fire Ant Management
Next Coffee Talk
A Brief Review of December’s Work
The mowing schedule switched over to bi-weekly cuts, and this timetable will be in effect until the first week in April. At that time, we will resume weekly mowing for the duration of the summer. The detail schedule remains the same twelve months of the year.
January brings the first round of lawn fertilizer and insecticide applications. Fire ants, which are a perpetual threat in central Florida, are curbed by insecticides. Fire ants tend to make taller mounds during the cooler months in an attempt to get more warmth from sunshine. The taller mounds are easy for us to spot and treat.
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Our next coffee talk will be on Friday, January 31st at 9am in the Gator Room. Hope to see your there! Again, I wish you a wonderful 2020. And all the best with your New Year’s Resolutions!
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