JULY 2020 VOLUME 20 ISSUE 7
[ Department ] Articles
REFLECTIONS
ON THE COVER Although the annual Red, White and Blue Street Party is cancelled on July 4th, we will still celebrate our freedom! Independence Day can never be cancelled! Happy Birthday America! Cover photos by Joe Thomas.
JULY 2020 VOLUME 20 ISSUE 7
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 Temporary Hours for July Daily 7am-7pm Riviera Spa Massage: 407-914-9168 Monday-Thursday 8am-8pm Friday 8am-7pm, Saturday-Sunday 9am-6pm Solivita Club Facilities 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 The Grille at Stonegate: 863-427-7167 Daily 8am-9pm (Breakfast: 8am-11am, Lunch: 11am-4pm and Dinner: 4pm-9pm) Bar: Mon-Sat 11am-10pm (Happy Hour 2pm-5pm) and Sun 11am-9pm (Happy Hour All Day) The Palms: 863-496-1530 Amenity Center Monday-Sunday 8am-9pm Kids Pool Hours Monday-Friday 12pm-4pm Saturday & Sunday 9am-9pm Fitness Center Temporary Hours for July Daily 7am-7pm Waterfront Galleries Daily 8am-11pm Welcome Center or Model Park: 863-427-7000 Monday-Saturday 9:30am -5:30pm Sunday 11am -5:30pm
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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 Membership: 863-427-7143 or solivitamembership@evergreen-LM.com Mosaics Restaurant: 863-427-7150, ext. 4720 or option #5 Resident to Resident Resource Center: 863-236-9973 or SolivitaR2R@gmail.com Riviera Spa Massage: 407-914-9168 or info@rivieraspamassage.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 Stonegate Golf Club Directory: 863-427-7150 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] JULY TABLE OF CONTENTS Newsletter Submission & Advertising Info ............................ Page 3 Department Articles .............................................................. Pages 4-17 Solivita University .......................................................................... Page 13 Community Events ............................................................... Pages 17-19 Relay For Life Events ................................................................ Page 17 Mosaics Special Nights ........................................................... Page 18 Wellness Events ......................................................................... Page 19 A Touch of Class ................................................................... Pages 20-22 Club & Support Group Meeting Lists ........................... Pages 22-27 Club News ............................................................................... Pages 27-43 Neighborhood News .................................................................... Page 44 Resident Kudos ............................................................................... Page 45 Advertisements ..................................................................... Pages 45-80 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 Pages E3 Monthly Calendar (back of Activities Events) ........................ Insert
NOTICE REGARDING EVENTS
At the time of printing the July edition of Reflections, there is still much uncertainty as to when events and gatherings, small or large, can resume in all Solivita Club Facilities due to the current health crisis caused by Coronavirus (COVID-19). You will see that some events have been cancelled or postponed throughout this edition, but others have not yet been determined. Please keep in mind that any event or gathering listed in the July Reflections may potentially be cancelled or postponed for the safety and wellness of our residents and guests. We sincerely appreciate your understanding during this time. We will keep you updated on all news and events through the community email blasts and SolivitaHOA.com as information becomes available.
HOLIDAY HOURS SATURDAY, JULY 4TH: INDEPENDENCE DAY
Fitness Centers: Close at 5pm
Reflections |  July 2020 |
NEWSLETTER SUBMISSIONS Email submissions to reflections@evergreen-LM.com
AUGUST SUBMISSIONS
Calendar submissions and newsletter articles are due on Wednesday, July 1st. Club insert copies for June are due by Thursday, July 23rd. 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.
SEPTEMBER SUBMISSIONS
Calendar submissions and newsletter articles are due on Friday, July 31st.
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. For more information, visit SolivitaAdvertising. com or contact Amanda Wright at 813-501-7220 or SolivitaAdvertising@Evergreen-LM.com.
PHOTO RELEASE AGREEMENT As a reminder, attending any event or class advertised in this publication grants Taylor Morrison, Evergreen Lifestyles Management and Solivita, permission and unconditional rights to use, print, publish or allow to be published, any photographic or videographic image and/or likeness for promotional and/or advertising purposes without compensation, consent, restrictions or limitations whatsoever.
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.
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[ Department ] Articles
Friendly Reminders & Updates By Rudy Bautista, LCAM Solivita Community Manager Can you believe we have passed the halfway mark for the year 2020? With everything going on around us right now, father time does seem to rush past.
replaced completely. They are now covered under full warranty and should provide dependable service for years to come.
On behalf of the Association, I want to thank all of my residents for their patience, understanding and working with us during these past few months. All of my departments are operating and have been since the beginning. Below you will find all of their contact information if you have any questions or concerns. • Administrative Assistant - Raj Hanooman: 863-427-7124 or rhanooman@evergreen-LM.com • Director of Association Site Services - Matt McCoy: 863427-7103 or mmccoy@evergreen-LM.com • Director of Safety & Security - Madalyn Colon: 863-4407572 or madalync@vitalsecurity.com • Architectural Review/Compliance/Violations: 863-4277022 and 863-427-7032 or compliance@SolivitaHOA.com • Membership: 863-427-7143 or solivitamembership@ evergreen-LM.com
Projects in Progress/Completed
The 2020 concrete repair and replacement project did start last month in the Flora Vista section. The sections of sidewalk/ curb that were marked off were either grinded down or replaced completely depending on the degree of lift. The vendor should be finishing up this month with the whole project. If you feel there is an area that was missed, please reach out to Matt McCoy so he may address this. The palm tree trimming also started last month and should be completed within the next four weeks. Please keep in mind that the only palm trees that Powell Landscaping Services is addressing are the ones that are above Floralawn’s contract specifications. Any species of palm tree that measures over “16 feet” from the ground to the start of the palm fronds only gets trimmed “two” times per year. These are easy to spot because the only way you can get to them is by using a cherry picker. All others get trimmed by Floralawn and their maintenance crews. The gate arms and housing replacements project is complete. All gate arms/housings are either brand new or have been serviced completely. Many had the bar arms, motors, gears, belts and pins
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I also want to say what a pleasure it has been working as your Community Association Manager. Over the 20 years of being in Solivita and working for you, I have so many great memories and better yet, have made so many great friends. Looking at what would one day be the main front entrance to Solivita (which was only a small dirt road where land was starting to be cleared) to now 20 years later, it has become this beautiful community that so many great people from across the world call home. I look forward to working for all of you for years to come and the making of many new memories. Rudy Bautista 863-701-2969 rbautista@evergreen-LM.com
Reflections | July 2020 |
ACTIVITIES WEEKLY[ Department Articles ]
VIRTUAL PROGRAM MONDAY
WEDNESDAY
TUESDAY
MOVIE MATINEE 3PM ON CH
. 732
THURSDAY
2PM ON CH. 732
EMAIL BLAST
TS SELECT NIGH
ON CH. 732
FRIDAY
THURSDAY
MOVIE night
Things to Do Thursday
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7PM ON CH. 7
SELECT DA TES/TIMES
ONLINE CL
RK FREEDOM PA IN M P -1 M A 11
ASSES VIA ZOOM
WEEKLY A C T I V IT IES COMPE T IT I O N S
EMAIL BLA ST
SELECT NIGHTS
ON CH. 732
THIS PROGRAM IS ADVERTISED WEEKLY WITH MORE INFORMATION THROUGH THE ACTIVITIES DEPARTMENT COMMUNITY EMAIL BLASTS. IF YOU AREN’T SIGNED UP ON SOLIVITAHOA.COM, SIGN UP NOW AND ENTER “EVERGREEN” AS THE FIRST TIME PASSWORD, THEN SELECT “YES” TO RECEIVE COMMUNITY EMAIL UPDATES.
This temporary program may be reduced or discontinued at any time when we are able to return to our normal schedule of events. For questions or Virtual Program suggestions, email SolivitaActivities@Evergreen-LM.com or call 863-427-7125.
Reflections | July 2020 |
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[ Department ] Articles
Adapting!
By Jana Malik Director of Activities “There is only one way to survive and thrive when faced with circumstances out of our control and for which we are unprepared: ADAPT” - Charles F Glassman. We have all had to adapt to new norms since the COVID-19 pandemic struck our country. Whether it is communicating virtually with family and friends, finding new ways to entertain ourselves, learning to wear masks and social distance, we’ve all had to adjust our way of living. Our department has been in this with you and we have worked hard to quickly adapt to a virtual program that offers you as much entertainment as we can under these unusual circumstances. During this process, it helped us learn some helpful tricks along the way. When the time comes and we are authorized permission, Activities will adapt again to new ideas and norms while continuing to provide a varied and entertaining program for all to enjoy. We are thinking through all the changes that will need to be made. Here are some ideas being bounced around: • Outdoor drive-in movies and live entertainment • Outdoor and/or limited indoor seated events such as Trivia, Name That Tune, Painting Class, Shows, etc. • Golf Cart Rally (this event is like a scavenger event) • Holiday themed Parade
Due to the advance Reflections newsletter deadline, future events are still being promoted in case we are able to host them. If guidelines require us to postpone or cancel the advertised event(s), we will continue to notify residents through community email blasts.
Activities Weekly Events
ACTIVITIES WEEKLY
VIRTUAL PROGRAM
Please check out page 5 in this month’s Reflections newsletter to see our virtual weekly program. Details and more information MOVIE night about this program are available through SolivitaHOA.com email blasts. The virtual weekly program may discontinue or be reduced when we adapt to changing social requirements, are able to return to in-person events and when the multi-purpose club facilities reopen. MONDAY
WEDNESDAY
TUESDAY
MOVIE MATINEE
3PM ON CH.
FREEDOM PARK 11AM-1PM IN
2PM ON CH. 732
732
FRIDAY
THURSDAY
THURSDAY
WEEKLY ACT COMPET IVITIES ITIONS
Things to Do Thursday
7PM ON CH. 732
EMAIL BLAST
SELECT DAT ES/
TS SELECT NIGH
ON CH. 732
TIMES
ONLINE CLASS ES VIA ZOOM
EMAIL BLAS T
SELECT NIGHTS
ON CH. 732
THIS PROGRAM IS ADVERTISED WEEKLY WITH MORE INFORMATION THROUGH THE ACTIVITIES DEPARTMENT COMMUNITY EMAIL BLASTS. IF YOU AREN’T SIGNED UP ON SOLIVITAHOA.COM, SIGN UP NOW AND ENTER “EVERGREEN” AS THE FIRST TIME PASSWORD, THEN SELECT “YES” TO RECEIVE COMMUNITY EMAIL UPDATES.
This temporary program may be reduced or discontinued at any time when we are able to return to our normal schedule of events. For questions or Virtual Program suggestions, email SolivitaActivities@Evergreen-LM.com or call 863-427-7125.
Solivita’s Roaring 20th Birthday Party – UPDATE
We were all excited to celebrate Solivita’s 20th birthday, but due to the uncertain times and the magnitude of this event, we have made the decision to postpone until 2021 with the date to be determined. Therefore, we will celebrate Solivita “being legal to drink” at its 21st Birthday Party! We’ll be “checking your ID” by putting a wrist band on (like they do at nightclubs) and we’ll have a roaring prohibition style party!
Solivita Clubs, card groups and art Classes should also think about how they can adapt to possible smaller room occupancies: • RSVPs might be needed • For weekly groups or classes, a rotation or scheduling of members to certain dates and/or times • Moving to an outdoor area such as the Freedom Park pavilions or the parking lot We don’t know when we will be able to implement these changes, new norms or ideas, but we wanted to communicate with you that we are thinking ahead to adapt our program to in-person events and meetings when the time comes. Please stay tuned for any upto-date information through the community email blast.
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We will be ready to adapt to Keep the Party Going!!! Jana Malik 863-427-7125 jmalik@evergreen-LM.com
Reflections | July 2020 |
Reflections |  July 2020 |
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[ Department ] Articles
ARC Reminders
By Yolanda Santiago Community Standards Manager As many new homeowners move into Solivita, we would like to simply remind you that any changes made to the outside of the home requires prior Architectural Review Committee (ARC) approval. The ARC is part of the Association and maintains the standards established in the governing documents to help protect property values. As you inquire about what kind of documents or what additional information is needed when submitting your application, let me help by going over the most common ARC application requests we receive and what you will need to provide upon submitting.
and third Monday of every month (except for reserved holidays). Your request must be submitted no later than 4:30pm on the Wednesday prior to the meeting. Please keep this in mind when turning in an application for approval and wanting to know the outcome of such.
Although each ARC application is unique, the most common are repainting your home, landscaping, screen enclosures, fences, yard art, wall art, and extending of the walkway, just to name a few. You will need to provide the following (as needed): • Property survey (fences, pools, extending a screen enclosure, new landscape beds, curbing, extending walkways and any additions) • Picture showing color, dimensions, location, types of plants, flowers, yard art, etc. • Proposal with specifications from the vendor completing the work
However, if you have signed up for the Vantaca Homeowner site and included your email, an email with the outcome will be sent from Evergreen Lifestyles Management. You can also view your ARC application request outcome in the Vantaca portal on the Owner Dashboard main page, which will include the information shown on the example screenshot below, under “Open Issues.”
Architectural Process
According to the Solivita Architectural Review Requirements (Page 6, Section 5.6), the HOA has up to 30 days to process an application. Subsequently, because of the large volume of ARC applications submitted, the Architectural Review Meetings are held the first
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It’s understandable that many homeowners want to know the outcome the same day that the meeting takes place, but unfortunately there is a process to follow. ARC applications are first recorded in the system, then letters are generated and mailed to the mailing address on file.
In order to access this information, log on to portal.evergreenLM.com/Home/Login. If you have any issues signing into this portal, please feel free to contact our Solivita Administrative Assistant Raj at 863-427-7124 or by email at rhanooman@ evergreen-LM.com and she will be able to assist with your log in. Yolanda Santiago 863-427-7032 ysantiago@evergreen-LM.com
Reflections | July 2020 |
[ Department] Articles
Hurricane Preparedness Information Submitted by the Solivita CERT Team
One objective of the Solivita Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is to assist residents in preparing for a hurricane or other major disaster. In a widespread emergency, county responders will be spread very thin and possibly not able to reach everyone, so residents should be able to handle much of their own response.
during the storm, and then what to do after it passes.
To help residents be ready, we have prepared a set of white papers (documents) on what you need to know and do in your home, specifically for Solivita residents. Knowing what to expect and how to get ready can alleviate the anxiety you may feel when a storm is approaching.
Disaster Supplies - Supply List
Below are the four major documents that cover most all aspects of preparedness for residents. Each paper has a distinct perspective and scope. These papers are all available on SolivitaHOA.com under Get Connected > Clubs > CERT > Disaster Preparedness (located in the gray box to the left) and/or Documents (at the bottom of the webpage).
Staying informed, CERT preparedness information (these papers), weather radio, how CERT will communicate (via radio), and contacting CERT.
Hurricane FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
This addresses preparations in four time periods: ahead of time (now), just before the storm arrival (48 hours), hunkering down
Reflections |  July 2020 |
Disaster Considerations - Preparations
Factors to consider in planning your disaster response – PLAN AHEAD, leave or stay, let your family know, and how to contact CERT afterwards.
Drinking water, water purification, your DISASTER KIT (some tools, toiletries, entertainment), non-perishable foods, and last minute (perishable) food buys.
Disaster Communications
Please review these documents and prepare your household for an organized response to a disaster. These papers are also available from the Concierge Desk in the Administration Building. To learn more about how CERT will respond, attend a CERT meeting; see the Calendar insert and Club List in Reflections.
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[ Department ] Articles
From the World of Fitness & Wellness By Jamar Edge Director of Fitness & Wellness
It’s been great seeing all the activity taking place in the community over the last month. We’ve been able to reopen the gym and start up some of the classes again. Thank you all for coming in and doing your part to make sure we are keeping the facilities sanitized and safe. Solivita has a committee that is dedicated to assisting in promoting and enhancing the fitness and wellness experience of the community called the FitWell Committee. I want to take this time to introduce the community to the two newest members of the FitWell Committee - Steve Gambino and Carrie Vance. Here is a little about them.
Steve Gambino (Incoming Chair)
Steve Gambino retired from West Chester University of Pennsylvania in 2017 as the Director of Campus Recreation and Adjunct Professor in the Department of Kinesiology. He has a Doctorate of Education in Recreation and Leisure Studies, a Master of Gambino Education in Recreation Administration from Temple University, and a Bachelor of Science in Health and Physical Education from East Stroudsburg University. He has been in the field of recreational sports and academia for over 40 years. He is a native Philadelphian, who grew up loving their professional sports teams. He actually played a football game at Franklin Field when he was 12, after the Eagles played the Atlanta Falcons. His passions are playing hardball, softball, basketball, working out, reading and of course watching the Phillies, Eagles, Sixers, and Flyers. Steve and his wife Kathy moved to Solivita in February of 2017. They have three sons. Their oldest son Stephen, his wife Leigha and son Brooks (a year old) live in Glenside, PA, outside Philadelphia. Their middle son Chris, his wife Megan and son Josiah (three years old) live in Doylestown, PA. Their youngest son Ryan, his wife Jessie and their two Huskie dogs live in Johnston City, TN. Steve and Kathy are happy living the dream!
Carrie Vance
Carrie Vance has lived in Solivita for four years. She is originally
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from New York and retired from a 30-year career in the New York State Courts. Carrie has always had an interest in health and fitness. Being a person dealing with hypertension, health is a very important issue for her. Exercise is the best way to shake up those Vance endorphins to help your body feel good. While Carrie’s preference is weight lifting, she does enjoy the plethora of classes Solivita has to offer. She said, “I must admit, I do sometimes wish there was an exercise pill I could take. Until that happens I will continue to work out!”
Francisco Castro
Francisco was born in Santurce, Puerto Rico and has been a Solivita resident for 10 ½ years. He served in the U.S. Armed Forces and retired after 26 years. Francisco decided to go to college Castro to obtain a degree in Legal Studies. Currently, he works with the Volunteer Orange County Legal Aid Society (Past Volunteer Guardian ad-Litem). Francisco played organized baseball, softball and racquetball through the years and he enjoys weight lifting, biking, and attending fitness classes (Yoga, Muscle Conditioning and Express Total Body Sculpt). I want to welcome these three fantastic homeowners to the FitWell Committee and I’m looking forward to working with them to continue making this a terrific program. I would also like to take this opportunity to re-introduce you to the current members of our FitWell Committee. Here is a little information about them.
Susan Sweet (Current Chair)
Sweet
Originally from Rhode Island, Susan Sweet and her husband Joe have resided in Solivita for five and a half years, previously living in Naples, Florida. Susan has been a member of the FitWell Committee for three years. She is also the President of the Stonegate Women’s Continued on page 11
Reflections | July 2020 |
[ Department] Articles
Jamar’s article continued from page 10 Golf Association, a member of Smashers Pickleball Club, and enjoys long distance bicycling. Her education and career are in health care, specifically social work. Susan has worked in child welfare, corrections, and mental health settings. While living in Naples, she worked for Hope Hospice as well as Lee Memorial Health System in Palliative Care. Susan believes that as we age, it is important to have access to information and education about any potentially life limiting illness, so that quality of life remains optimum.
Margo Vento
Margo Vento has been a Solivita resident since September 2007; she was the first resident in Mira Vista! During the last 11 years, she has played on the ladies’ softball team, a Pickleball team, worked out at the gym, started the Healthy Eating/Active Living (HEAL) Club, and is a member of the Solivita Bowlers. Margo volunteers for Vento the Activities Department, is a member of a Relay For Life Team, and attends several fitness classes. She enjoys biking, walking, golfing, attending Wellness Lectures and reading when she has time!
Joan Kraus
Kraus
Yard of the Month
The Yard of the Month is at the beautifully landscaped home of Denis and Denise Brault at 1233 Glendora Road. Take a comfortable walk or bicycle ride and enjoy the colorful front yard they have maintained over the years. Our congratulations to the Braults on being chosen! Who will be our next month’s Yard owner? We have been getting suggestions on what landscape to pick for Yard of the Month. As a reminder, our judges are two nonresidents who ride the community and choose a front yard that has the best curb appeal from a particular neighborhood. So, the Green Thumbs Club does not choose the winner; we only acknowledge and report the winning yard. If you are interested in doing some plantings or reworking your yard during this stay-at-home time, you can visit ffl.ifas.ufl.edu or contact Floralawn to ask about the “right plant in the right place.” Enjoy the outdoors before the summer heat takes over and please be safe!
Joan Kraus has been a resident of Solivita for eight years. Some of the activities she has participated in are Pickleball, dragon boating, yoga, water aerobics, and a variety of exercise classes. She is also extremely interested in nutrition and alternative healing practices (chiropractic, massage, physical therapy, and essential oils).
If you so happen to see these committee members around the community, do not hesitate to say hello …. with social distancing, of course! The committee can also be reached at WellnessCommittee@SolivitaHOA.com. Stay Safe Solivita!
Jamar Edge 863-496-3522 jedge@evergreen-LM.com
Reflections | July 2020 |
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[ Department ] Articles
Getting Out of the House in July By Shelley Destefano Community Concierge
We had a rough start to what I thought was going to be a fantastic year. Was I wrong or what? Instead, we experienced what it must feel like to be in prison, except it was like a fat farm where you gained weight instead of losing weight. There was the fridge with all the food you were hoarding and your mouth, which was not on lockdown. We now have the opportunity to waddle out of our homes and show everyone there is more of us to love than they thought.
will continue to this month, including the Disney parks, Universal and SeaWorld. If you decide to venture out, please make reservations, as things will definitely be different as we continue to live with the COVID-19 pandemic. Visitors to the parks will encounter the following changes: temperature checks on arrival; requirement for face masks; social distancing markers; groups will be kept separate; enhanced cleaning and disinfecting; hand sanitizer stations; contactless payment; and reduced capacity.
There is also more responsibility as we try to move forward safely. Everyone just needs to do their job by protecting himself or herself, which in return will protect those around us. Try to do at least one thing daily that gives you satisfaction, other than a dinner date with your fridge. Before visiting places, please call to find out their hours of operation and rules due to COVID-19. With that in mind, read on for important dates and suggestions of things to do this month!
Do you admire wolves? If you want to get close to them, you would probably enjoy Seacrest Wolf Preserve-Chipley located at 3449 Bonnett Pond Road in Chipley, Florida. For information, call 850-773-2897 or visit seacrestwolfpreserve.org.
Independence Day
We have an amazing, free country that came at an unrepayable cost, the loss of life. May we never forget the cost of our freedom and always be grateful to those who lost their lives to protect ours as we celebrate Independence Day on Saturday, July 4th.
Parents’ Day
Parents’ Day, which falls on Sunday, July 26th this year, is like a combination of Mother’s Day and Father’s Day in one. On this day you can show both your parents appreciation at the same time! Enjoy your time with family!
Amusement Parks
Many amusement parks have begun to reopen their doors and
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Seacrest Wolf Preserve
Florida Caverns
You can go on a cave tour at Florida Caverns State Park located at 3345 Caverns Road, Marianna, FL 32446. They open at 8am and close at dusk. The entrance fee is $5 per vehicle and the cave tours are $10.75 per person (age 13 or older), $5 per child (ages 3 to 12), and children 2 and under are free. For information, call 850-482-1228 or visit floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/ florida-caverns-state-park.
Caladium Festival Cancelled
The 2020 Caladium Festival in Lake Placid has been cancelled. You may still visit their website at caladiumfestival.org and purchase caladiums from the growers listed below: • Bates Sons & Daughters: 863-465-3274, 81 Bates Road, Lake Placid, FL 33852 • Classic Caladiums: 888-912-0020, classiccaladiums.com, 1315 State Road 64 West, Avon Park, FL 33825 • Florida Boys Caladiums: 863-699-9198, floridaboyscaladiums.com • Happiness Farms Inc: 863-465-0044 or 866-892-0396, happinessfarms.com, 704 County Road 621 E, Lake Placid, FL 33852 As we face hardships, we must stay united and realize that we are all Americans who love our country, neighbors and each other. Community Concierge 863-427-7100 sdestefano@evergreen-LM.com
Reflections | July 2020 |
[ 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, are welcome to adult guests and require pre-registration, unless otherwise noted. Solivita University class calendar and faculty biographies can be found on SolivitaHOA.com under Get Connected. For more information or to purchase annual passes by cash, check or credit card, please visit the Activities Office or call 863-427-7125.
STAY TUNED TO COMMUNITY EMAIL BLASTS FOR UP-TO-DATE CLASS INFORMATION Intermediate Bridge – Planning To Win
Saturdays, July 11th, 18th and 25th Gator Room from 1pm-4pm Tuition: $20 per student Instructor: Donna McIlwain Course Description: The focus of this class is to present various aspects of declarer play. Each week will provide an opportunity to practice opening leads, planning the play, defensive tips, and discussion of the hands played. All course material will be presented in a handout for review.
The Privilege of Voting in the United States Mondays, August 17th, 24th and 31st Art Gallery at 6:30pm Tuition: $20 per student Professor: Thomas Gallagher, Ph.D
Course Description: • Week One: What is a Vote? What are the origins? How is it used? Who can use it? When is it used? What are the different types of “Votes”? Is a Vote Binding? Is it a Democratic Process? • Week Two: What methods are used to cast a Vote? Are they legal? Who says so? Is Voting a Right? Is it a Privilege? Is it offered only to some people? Can you lose the right to vote? How would you get the right back? • Week Three: What are the types of ballots? What are the requirements to Vote in The United States? In Florida? How often can you Vote? What political offices does Voting
Reflections | July 2020 |
cover? An insight into Polk County Voting. What is the Electoral College? How does it work? Do polls influence how you decide to Vote?
Upcoming Courses in Fall 2020 – MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Registration opens in the Activities Office a month before each first class date. • History of the Civil Rights Movement Through Film: 3-week course starting on Thursday, September 10th at 1pm • Ethical Dilemmas: Is There a Right Way to do the Wrong Thing: 3-week course starting on Tuesday, September 15th at 1pm • World Religions - Buddhism, Islam and Cross-Cultural Mysticism: 3-week course starting on Wednesday, September 16th at 1pm • History of Love and Romance Through Film: 3-week course starting on Monday, October 5th at 1pm • Apple iPhones and iPads: 4-week course starting on Thursday, October 8th at 6pm • Leave Your Kids the Memories, Not the Mess: 1-day class on Friday, October 9th at 10am • Mac Productivity Programs: 6-week course starting on Friday, October 9th at 2pm • Beginners Conversational Spanish: 8-week course on Tuesdays and Thursdays starting on October 13th at 1:30pm • Advanced Beginner Bridge: 7-week course starting on Saturday, October 17th (skipping Saturday, November 28th) at 1pm
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[ Department ] Articles
The R2R Resource Center is Here for You! Next Workshop Postponed to September: Handyman Help Me!
Tuesday, September 29th • 10am • Ballroom There is always something that requires maintenance or needs repair. If you can’t do the work yourself, it’s great to have the help of one of Solivita’s local handymen to do the work for you. All R2R Resource Center Workshops are free to Solivita residents, but advance registration is requested to help us prepare. Call 863-236-9973 or email SolivitaR2R@gmail. com to reserve your spot. Walk-ins are always welcome.
New Scams as a Result of COVID-19
The FBI estimates that scams and cyber-attacks quadrupled in the first two months of the shutdown. Some of the more prevalent scams: • Contacts that tell you they will sign you up for COVID-19 tests • Contacts that tell you they will help you get stimulus money • Fraudulent requests for charitable donations to help COVID-19 victims • They prey on individuals who are novice users of online ordering or other financial services AARP has a comprehensive website on frauds and scams; check it out at aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork.com. They also have a fraud hotline: 877-908-3360. Email Scams If there is one rule to follow in this environment, it’s to go back to the source. That means, do not click on links, especially links in emails. It is extremely rare that government agencies or financial institutions ask you to access a link. However, if you suspect it might be legitimate, do not click. Instead, go back to the source. For example, if you receive an email reportedly from the IRS, go
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directly to the IRS website instead of using the link. If you think you were contacted by your bank, call them (do not use the number supplied in the email), or go to their website. If you get an email from Instacart saying that they want to refund money they overcharged you, call Instacart first. Clicking on links these days can be especially dangerous. If you click on, or place your mouse on, the name of the sender of an email, it will show you the source and help you decide if it is legitimate. Phone Scams You can be reasonably certain that no one who calls is really going to expedite an extra stimulus payment, get you first in line for a vaccine, or set your computer up so that you can talk to your grandchildren more easily. Again, if you think a call is legitimate, find a contact number (not from the person calling), check it out and call back to see if it is authentic. Be alert; unethical people may be after more than your money ... they want your health insurance information, your social security number, and other personal data. And, remember, for other tips on staying cyber-safe, check out the “It’s a Scary World” link under “Technology” on the “R2R Resource Center” webpage on SolivitaHOA.com.
Kids Corner ... and Other Diversions
For many of us, this summer – at least at the moment – is a question mark. Will the children and grandchildren be able to visit? Will we be able to entertain them? Will we be able to entertain ourselves? As things begin to open up around us, it is a good time to explore options to the traditional theme parks and attractions. • A good place to start is with our Solivita Concierge, Shelley Destefano. Shelley has an incredible wealth of knowledge Continued on page 15
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[ Department] Articles
R2R article continued from page 14 about our area and can recommend appropriate and safe entertainment choices for children and adults. She has upto-date information on specific guidelines and precautions in place at various venues. She can be reached at 863-4277100 or at sdestefano@evergreen-LM.com. • Check out orlandoatplay.com, a website maintained by United Arts of Orlando. Not only do they maintain a constantly-updated list of activities for children and adults, they have a special section devoted to online and virtual events.
• Visit the Resource Center and explore our selection of books you can borrow to entertain children, from toddlers to more mature readers. • Be sure to check out the Museum Book Reading from the Orlando Museum of Art, where Ms. Molly combines story time with art.
R2R Resource Center 863-236-9973 SolivitaR2R@gmail.com
July: Rain, Grass Growth and Pests By Brad Thompson Branch Manager, Floralawn Happy July! If this is your first summer in the Sunshine state, welcome to heat, humidity, and afternoon thunderstorms. Our daily downpours plus warm sunshine makes the grass throughout Solivita grow like crazy.
They suck the juices out of the leaves. This doesn’t usually kill a plant, but it makes it lose its vigor. The aphids also secrete a substance called honeydew, which attracts black mold. If not cleaned off, the black mold can eventually cover all the leaves on the shrub, and the whole plant looks black and unhealthy.
Floralawn crews keep busy from early to late, mowing, edging, string trimming, and blowing off. A silver lining of all the rain is less need for turf irrigation. You may not notice it, but we pull back on the frequency of running sprinklers during these months when we’re helped by Mother Nature.
Whiteflies are also found on the undersides of leaves. In their mature form, they look like little white moths. If you brush up against a shrub with a whitefly colony, you’ll see clouds of them rise in the air. Like aphids, whiteflies secrete honeydew.
We’re one month into hurricane season with five to go. Our prep is mostly done—cutting back palms and trimming trees limbs away from buildings and roofs. We’ve thinned canopies to enable strong winds to pass through trees and we have removed dead branches that could fall in a storm. Throughout hurricane season, Floralawn crews monitor trees and continue to keep them trimmed and pruned.
Pests
Last month, I talked about chinch bugs and the threat they pose to St. Augustine grass that grows throughout Solivita. Floralawn crews also look for aphids and whiteflies—two more pests that are especially active in the warm, humid summer months. Aphids are oval or pear-shaped, tiny (maybe 1/8” long), and usually found on the undersides of leaves on shrubs and plants.
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Aphid and whitefly infestations can cause plants to fail. The honeydew they secrete leads to unsightly black Sooty Mold problems. So, although not as destructive as chinch bugs, aphids and whiteflies are still unwanted pests that our crews work hard to control and eradicate. Well, enough talk about bugs. If you have questions about landscaping pests or Floralawn services, please give us a call at 863-225-9565. Stay cool, dry and healthy this month!
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[ Department ] Articles
Spa Talk: The Coronavirus and Halotherapy Submitted By Crystal Bethea Owner, Riviera Spa Massage
It’s important to understand that the Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a lung and respiratory issue facing the world’s population. Dry salt therapy, aka halotherapy, has been researched around the world for the past few decades and provides very positive results in relieving upper and lower respiratory conditions. According to the Salt Therapy Association Founding Director Dr. Daniel Layish, MD, a 20-year veteran pulmonologist, it’s too early to tell the impact of halotherapy with this strain of Coronavirus; however, the virus does affect the respiratory and lung systems and dry salt therapy has shown symptomatic benefits from a clinical study they conducted on a patient with cystic fibrosis. While there is no need to be overly concerned at this time, being proactive and taking care of your respiratory system is more important now than ever before. Dry salt therapy can impact people suffering from respiratory conditions like allergies, asthma, bronchitis, cystic fibrosis, COPD and more.
has been processed to remove all trace elements, minerals and debris. Salt is water soluble and doesn’t stay in your lungs unlike the elements listed above that have been removed. The salt used in the hospital in saline solutions that pass through your body due to its purity, is the same we use in our salt booth.
In a Nutshell
The salt chamber isolates an individual in a stress-free environment that provides healing on a variety of levels, while allowing the body to reassert its natural balance. The negative charge and high surface energy of dry salt particles empower them to penetrate internal airways more deeply, bonding with positive ions and calming and relaxing internal muscles as the nervous system rebalances. Multiple sessions in this supportive environment reinforce the organism’s natural inclination toward a healthy balanced state and enhance its ability to achieve it independently.
How Halotherapy Works
Active dry salt therapy is simple to understand. There are three primary characteristics of pure sodium chloride (NaCl) known as salt. Dry salt is super absorbent, anti-bacterial and antiinflammatory. This type of dry salt is placed into a halogenerator, that precisely grinds the salt into specific micro-sized particles and then disperses the salt aerosol into the air throughout the booth for inhalation. Pure 99.99% NaCI (which we use in our salt booth) is considered pharmaceutical/medical grade salt that
Riviera Spa Massage 407-914-9168 info@rivieraspamassage.com
FRIENDS WHO HAVE LEFT US, BUT ARE NOT FORGOTTEN
James George
Dr. Donald B. Kelly
Robert Matusevich
Charles “Tony” Robinson
Marge Schafetz
Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the residents who recently passed away. | 16 |
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[ Department] Articles
Committee Roundup FitWell Committee
The FitWell Committee wants to express our thanks to all residents who are adhering to the guidelines announced by the CDC, and by the Federal and State officials to combat the spread of the Coronavirus within our community. Guidelines recommended and put in place by Taylor Morrison on the use of our facilities (gyms, pools, etc.) are for our own protection. We recommend that prior to using any piece of equipment you clean it with disinfectant wipes, and as a courtesy once you are finished as well. Please respect other residents and keep within the guidelines on social distancing.
Our Mission Matters More Than Ever By Susie Quattrochi Relay For Life Event Lead
Relay For Life is all about togetherness, and even though we can’t currently be face-toface, we’ll continue fighting as one supportive community. By working together, we’ll provide crucial information through our 24/7 helpline (1-800-227-2345) and cancer. org, advocate for critical health care legislation, and give hope with everything we do. Because cancer won’t stop ... and neither will we. People who have been DIAGNOSED WITH CANCER are more vulnerable than ever right now. They NEED support, people to talk with, resources to turn to, and reassurance that someone is looking out for them. Relay For Life of Solivita needs your help to reach out to our many survivors fighting everyday against cancer. Show your support with a phone call, a “Heart to Heart” card, or volunteer a service to let them know they are not forgotten. Someday we will be able to have gatherings and events again to celebrate our survivors! We appreciate your support and donations to our many fundraiser events for the American Cancer Society. Your help is always welcome! The following are just a few ways to become a part of Relay For Life of Solivita: 1) Join the Relay Committee Board; 2) Become a Proud Relay Volunteer; 3) Plan a Fundraiser Event; and 4) Form or Join a Team. For more information, contact me at susieq429@gmail.com, Al Quattrochi at alsueq13@gmail.com, or call 407-729-6850. Also, you can always go to relayforlife.org/solivitafl to make a donation and for more information about Relay For Life in Solivita.
RELAY COMMUNITY EVENTS VICTORY CASINO CRUISE
Wednesday, July 8th • 8:30am • Freedom Park Sponsored by Playing for Life Relay Team. Fundraising for the American Cancer Society resumes with the return of our VICTORY CASINO CRUISE on July 8th. The cost is $38 per person and includes roundtrip bus transportation, boarding pass, food voucher and $20 FREE PLAY. The bus leaves Freedom Park at 8:30am sharp and returns from Port Canaveral at approximately 6:15pm. For tickets or more information, call Rudi at 201-213-7251. New safety procedures will be in place for the bus and ship.
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[ Solivita Information ]
COMMUNITY EVENTS AUGUST REFLECTIONS
ASSEMBLY, DELIVERY & PICK-UP
SPECIAL NIGHTS Hosted by Stonegate Golf Club
STAY TUNED FOR ANY UPDATES THROUGH COMMUNITY EMAIL BLAST These events are welcome to residents and their adult guests. Please bring your Solivita Resident or guest ID badge for admission to Karaoke and Trivia Night. Some dates will be blacked out as we honor previously scheduled commitments. TRIVIA MONDAYS July 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th 4pm-6pm OR 7pm-9pm Test out your all-around trivia knowledge in teams up to eight people. Doors will open 30 minutes before the game starts. A professional trivia host is present, and prizes are given to the top three teams! Only food purchased from the Bistro and The Grille is permitted. Participants are limited to attend one Trivia game per advertised day. Coming in to pre-purchase tickets or reserving seats or tables is not permitted. A $5 cash only non-refundable beverage ticket will be sold at the door.
Wednesday, July 29th • 8:30am • Ballroom Newsletter assembly volunteers are asked to meet at 8:30am in the Ballroom on Wednesday, July 29th. Delivery volunteers should arrive between 9:45am-10am and are asked not to leave the Ballroom until all neighborhoods have been completely assembled. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE YOUR NEWSLETTER by Thursday, July 30th you will need to pick it up at the Concierge Desk in Administration anytime between 9am-5pm.
SoFEES SCHOOL SUPPLY DONATIONS Collecting Now Sponsored by Solivita Friends of Elementary Education Schools (SoFEES). Every year SoFEES collects school supplies for Poinciana students and ends the collection with a terrific “School Daze” dance. Out of an abundance of caution we have decided to cancel the 2020 dance. However, our children continue to need your support for food and school supplies. We would like to help the schools in a contact-free manner. Your donations will allow us to order supplies online and have them delivered directly to the schools. Your support, both past and present, is critical to our mission - helping students succeed. Please mail checks, made out to SoFEES, to Kathy Griffin at 669 Coronado Drive, Poinciana, Florida 34759. Questions? Call Rita Katz, President, at 215-850-7122.
KARAOKE TUESDAYS July 7th, 14th and 21st 6pm-9pm Sing, dance, and play Mr. Breezz’s Musical Game Show with cash prizes and more! Only food purchased from the Bistro and The Grille is permitted.
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[ Solivita Information]
COMMUNITY EVENTS ST. ANN’S FOOD PANTRY DONATIONS
HOMELESS SUMMER SUPPLIES COLLECTION
Collecting Now Through August Sponsored by Solivita Friends Helping Those in NEED. We are collecting NON-PERISHABLE FOOD for St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry at St. Ann Catholic Church this summer. Solivita Drop-off Locations: 501 Milano Road (Lago Vista); 234 Rock Springs (Rainbow Lakes); and 508 Millifiora (Venezia). Mail or Deliver Monetary Donations: Judy Riggs, SVdP Treasurer, St. Ann’s Food Pantry, 1245 Cambria Bend Poinciana, FL 34759. For more information about the food pantry or volunteering, please contact Stan at stannsvdp@ outlook.com; Judy at jriggs40@gmail.com or 863-512-5322; or Felice at fann.gromek@gmail.com or 810-304-3939.
Collecting Now Through August Sponsored by Energizing Christian Women’s Connection (ECWC). Please consider donating summer supplies for the homeless, including SUNSCREEN, INSECT REPELLENT, HATS, CHAPSTICK, and UMBRELLAS. The collection will support Kissimmee/Poinciana Homeless Outreach, Inc. Visit KPHO.org for more information about the organization. Supplies can be dropped off to Anita Cugini at 234 Rock Springs Drive (in the covered bin on porch) or call 863-258-2749.
BLOOD DRIVE Monday, August 17th • 10am-3pm • Freedom Park The Blood Drive will be located beside the Farmer’s Market in the Blood Mobile. Please bring a picture ID showing your first and last name. To reserve a time slot to donate blood, go to donor. oneblood.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/722629.
UPCOMING WELLNESS EVENTS DATE
ACTIVITY
Wednesday, July 15th 2pm • RSF2
Wednesday, July 22nd 10am • RSF2 Wednesday, July 22nd 1pm-4pm • RSF2 Wednesday, July 29th 10am • RSF2 Wednesday, July 29th 2pm • RSF2 Wednesday, August 5th 2pm • RSF2
Estate Planning: Henderson Sachs, P.A. Attorney Dan Henderson will explain the purpose of Wills, Trusts, and Powers of Attorney as well as the probate process in Florida. Legal issues regarding Healthcare Surrogates and end of life choices will also be discussed. The presentation will be followed by a question and answer session. RSVP to Henderson Sachs at 407-850-2500. For more information, contact Mary-Elizabeth Liesenfelt at 407-850-2500, ext. 100. Poinciana Medical Center: For more information, contact Matt Ayres at 407-530-2013. Skin Cancer Screens: Daystar Skin and Cancer. For more information, contact Violet Gonzalez at 407-483-7774. Osceola Regional Medical Center: For more information, contact Vanessa Guevara at 407-518-4107.
Riviera Spa Massage: Crystal Bethea. RSVP to info@RivieraSpaMassage.com or 407-837-8685.
AdventHealth: For more information, contact Tracey Guerrara at 863-419-2177.
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