MARCH 2020 VOLUME 20 ISSUE 3
[ Department ] Articles
REFLECTIONS
ON THE COVER Adjust your clock forward one hour at 2am on Sunday, March 8th and enjoy the extended sunshine in Solivita, also known as, Life In The Sun!
MARCH 2020 VOLUME 20 ISSUE 3
VILLAGE CENTER HOURS
CONTACT LIST Community Manager (Association) - Rudy Bautista: 863-701-2969 or rbautista@evergreen-LM.com
Administration: 863-427-7100 Monday-Friday 9am-5pm
Club Manager - Sheri Wollschlager: 863-427-7129 or swollschlager@evergreen-LM.com
K&M Drugs: 863-496-7930 Monday-Friday 9am-6pm Saturday 9am-1pm and Sunday Closed
Director of Association Site Services for Solivita - Matt McCoy: 863-427-7103 or mmccoy@evergreen-LM.com
Marketplace Bistro: 863-427-7150, ext. 4724 Daily 8am-8pm, Breakfast: 8am-11am Riviera Spa & Fitness Center: 863-427-7130 Monday-Thursday 6:30am-9pm Friday 6:30am-7pm, Saturday-Sunday 7am-7pm Riviera Spa Massage: 407-914-9168 Monday-Thursday 8am-8pm Friday 8am-7pm, Saturday-Sunday 9am-6pm Solivita Club After Hours Emergency Phone Number: 863-286-8779 Weekdays 5pm-8pm and Weekends 12pm-5pm Starlite Ballroom Daily 8am-11pm Stonegate Pro Shop: 863-427-7150, ext. 4710 Daily 7am-5pm
Director of Safety & Security - Madalyn Colon: 863-440-7572 or madalync@vitalsecurity.com Communications - Doug Gilbert: 863-427-7137 or solivitacommunications@evergreen-LM.com Evergreen Lifestyles Management (For ALL Club & HOA Matters) 24/7: 855-490-1804 or customerservice@evergreen-LM.com Taylor Morrison Customer Care: 800-858-5933 or www.taylormorrison.com/warranty/request Activities: 863-427-7125 or SolivitaActivities@evergreen-LM.com Architectural Review: 863-427-7022 or compliance@solivitahoa.com Catering & Banquets (Stonegate Golf Club): 863-427-7150, ext. 4720 Concierge: 863-427-7100 or Fax: 863-496-4456 Floralawn: 863-225-9565 or floralawn.com (Submit a Work Order) Floralawn Irrigation Emergency After Hours: 863-225-9565 (Starting at 5pm all calls get routed directly to the on-call manager) K&M Drugs: 863-496-7930 or Fax: 863-496-7931
The Grille at Stonegate: 863-427-7167 Daily 8am-9pm (Breakfast: 8am-11am, Lunch: 11am-4pm and Dinner: 4pm-9pm) Bar: Mon-Sat 11am-10pm (Happy Hour 2pm-5pm) and Sun 11am-9pm (Happy Hour All Day)
Membership: 863-427-7143 or solivitamembership@evergreen-LM.com
The Palms: 863-496-1530 Amenity Center Monday-Sunday 8am-9pm Kids Pool Hours Monday-Friday 12pm-4pm Saturday & Sunday 9am-9pm Fitness Center Monday-Thursday 6:30am -9pm Friday 6:30am-7pm Saturday-Sunday 7am-7pm
Riviera Spa Massage: 407-914-9168 or info@rivieraspamassage.com
Waterfront Galleries Daily 8am-11pm
Stonegate Golf Club Directory: 863-427-7150
Welcome Center or Model Park: 863-427-7000 Monday-Saturday 9:30am -5:30pm Sunday 11am -5:30pm
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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] MARCH TABLE OF CONTENTS Newsletter Submission & Advertising Info ............................ Page 3 Department Articles .............................................................. Pages 4-18 Solivita University ................................................................. Pages 10-12 Community Events .............................................................. Pages 19-24 Relay For Life Events ....................................................... Pages 19-20 Mosaics Special Nights ........................................................... Page 21 Wellness Events .......................................................................... Page 24 A Touch of Class ................................................................... Pages 25-29 Club & Support Group Meeting Lists ........................... Pages 29-34 Club News ............................................................................... Pages 34-57 Resident Kudos .............................................................................. Page 58 Advertisements ................................................................... Pages 58-100 Activities Events (back of calendar) ................ Insert Pages E1-E3 A Night at the Movies ..................................................... Insert Page E1
NEWSLETTER SUBMISSION EMAIL ADDRESS
Email submissions to reflections@evergreen-LM.com
APRIL SUBMISSIONS
Calendar submissions and newsletter articles are due on Friday, February 28th. Club insert copies are due by Monday, March 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@evergreenLM.com) before they are copied.
MAY SUBMISSIONS
Calendar submissions and newsletter articles are due on Wednesday, April 1st.
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
Flags Over
Solivita
The Veterans Club established this project to display a U.S. Flag in front of every home in Solivita to recognize and celebrate selected holidays throughout the year. The club assigns a representative to place a 3’ x 5’ U.S. Flag in front of their home, in a designated location, throughout the year. There is still plenty of time to be part of the Flags Over Solivita Program for 2020 (Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, Labor Day through 9/11, and Veterans Day). Applications are available and can be printed from SolivitaHOA.com (under Veterans Club), on www.veteransclubofsolivita.com, or you may pick up a copy at the Concierge Desk. Applications, along with your $25 check (made out to VCS), can be mailed to Veterans Club of Solivita, P.O. Box 581770, Poinciana, FL 34758. If you would like to volunteer or you have any questions, email flagsoversolivita@gmail.com or call 863-512-3655.
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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
Improvement & Project Recap By Sheri Wollschlager Club Manager
As you read my article this month, please keep in mind that I am writing this at the beginning of February and talking about March. Some of what I will be writing about may have started, may have finished, or may have been moved to a different month, but here goes.
Yard of the Month This month’s yard winner can be viewed at 382 Lake Cassidy Drive in the Rainbow Lakes area. Congratulations to Candace Thompson who has planted a lovely assortment of flowers and bushes to make her yard stand out among the many well-maintained homes in our first neighborhood built almost 20 years ago. Candace will be presented with a gift card for winning Yard of the Month. We will be having a visitation in September to the many beautiful award winners. Is your yard next?
We are now into the first quarter of the year and here is what has been accomplished thus far: • We have resealed and striped the parking lot at Freedom Park/Ballroom and The Palms. • New sound boards have been installed in the Ballroom. • We have added extra sidewalks at Freedom Park for access to the storage sheds. • Extra golf cart parking has been completed and stoppers have been installed. • We have started reupholstering the Ballroom chairs. The vendor is taking 50-70 chairs at a time so we have enough for our events. • We are moving nicely through replacing A/C units that were installed in 1999 and are not operating efficiently anymore. • And, we finally got the new Riviera Spa Massage up and running. In March, we scheduled resurfacing of the outdoor pool, the two spas, and the fountain at the Riviera Spa & Fitness Center. We are also going to resurface the pool deck during this project. Sorry to all our spa and pool goers; this project will take a month to complete. Hopefully the weather will cooperate with us. We have a few more projects on the list for the first quarter, but I can’t announce them yet because we are getting final estimates and approvals. As soon as I can announce, I will send out an email blast with the updates. It looks like we’ve had a good start to the first quarter. We are really looking forward to completing these projects and many more we have planned in the next quarter. Sheri Wollschlager 863-427-7129 swollschlager@evergreen-LM.com
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[ Department ] Articles
Aren’t We Lucky?
By Jana Malik Director of Activities For so many reasons, I believe everyone who lives in Solivita is lucky. What a beautiful community to live in and an amazing place to be able to do many of the fun things you dreamt about doing “one day.” I would feel lucky and happy if I lived here. (I hope I don’t meddle in the way of the Director of Activities’ operations when I retire.) To me, Solivita almost feels like a second home because I work in an office within the community gates. I have gotten to know quite a few of you over the many years; I am familiar with the ins and outs of the Club facilities and I spend most of my day here. I am lucky too, even though I just work here. So, continuing with the theme from last month’s article, I am lucky to have the best Activities Team. This month, we feature Jennifer Rodriguez, who has worked in the Activities Department for eight years. Back then it was only Jennifer and I in the office, scheduling all of the room reservations and helping then Activities Director, Sheri Wollschlager, execute the many activities and events in Solivita. Since then, Jennifer has been promoted to Activities Coordinator. Hello! Here is just a little about me if you don’t know me already. I was born in Los Angeles, CA, but I’m basically a Floridian as I moved here at four years old. My ethnicity is half Mexican and half Puerto Rican. Before I worked at Solivita, I was a Sales Associate at Massage Envy and I worked at an animal clinic. Aside from my life at my amazing job in Solivita, I’m a mother of three beautiful
boys that include a 5 year old, 3 year old, and a 4 month old baby. I’ve been married for nine years to my husband whom I met in church, right here in Poinciana. I love family time and grocery shopping is an adventure with my boys. I’m sure some of you have seen me at our local Publix or maybe even heard my boys every now and then, too. My favorite food to eat is tostadas, which is a hard flat taco with all the amazing toppings on top and my favorite dessert is a hot baked brownie with vanilla ice cream on top. I absolutely love sweets, which was a pregnancy craving that has never left me. I love my job and the residents here keep me on my toes. My first day of work here was Ladies Night and “oh my” was that fun! I have grown to love a lot of you and respect all the advice and talks. I lost my grandma and grandpa years ago, but I won a whole community of very active grandparents!
Road & Freedom Park Recreation Closing Saturday, March 14th - Solivita Car Show • VILLAGE DRIVE, FROM THE BALLROOM TO THE PRO SHOP ROUNDABOUT, IS CLOSED TO VEHICLES FROM 6:30AM-4PM, EXCEPT TO CAR SHOW PARTICIPANTS • FREEDOM PARK RECREATION ACTIVITIES ARE CANCELLED UNTIL 10:30AM
Rays of Service Solivita Volunteers
Turn in your Volunteer Log Sheets by March 2nd for volunteer hours worked, assisting Solivita Departments. The hours accepted are from March 1, 2019 to February 29, 2020 to the Activities office to finalize the 2019-2020 season.
Welcome Aboard!
In case you have not heard, Activities Team Member Natasha Arbelaez decided to leave us at the end of 2019 to pursue other opportunities that were better for her and her family. We will Pictured above-left is Jennifer’s family, from left to right: Isaiah, Jennifer, Noah, Andy and Zion. Above-right photo by Joe Thomas.
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Continued on page 7
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[ Department] Articles
Jana’s article continued from page 6
Committee Roundup
miss her and have wished her the best in her new adventures. In her place, please welcome Michelle Ifill. Michelle is originally from New York City and resides outside the community in Poinciana. She’s both Puerto Rican and Trinidadian. She graduated in 2009 from Liberty High School and then attended Valencia College. She advanced her education by attending Full Sail University where she received a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Business. She’s excited to jump into the role as an Activities Specialist and more excited to get to know the residents of Solivita! Please welcome her when you see her around.
FitWell Committee
Solivita Club Facilities After-Hours Emergency Phone # 863-286-8779 Effective on weekdays from 5pm-8pm and on weekends from 12pm-5pm. This phone number is for emergencies occurring in the Solivita Club Facilities. Examples to call this number during hours noted above include, but are not limited to: • Water leak (not sprinkler issues around your home) • Power outage • Spill (wet floor) • Audio and Visual emergency assistance • Room calendar/reservation conflict (not to make a room reservation) • Housekeeping setup issue (*At the Ballroom, clubs are welcome to access the storage rooms. At The Palms, speak to the front desk staff person.*) This phone number is NOT for: • Medical emergencies • Solivita restaurant or Stonegate Golf Course issues/ emergencies • HOA or issues in or around your home • Landscaping or Sprinkler issues Feel the Luck and Keep the Party Going!!! Jana Malik 863-427-7125 jmalik@evergreen-LM.com
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At the last FitWell Committee Meeting new members were introduced. See Director Jamar Edge’s article on the following page for names of all members and how to contact them. The new golf cart parking area near the Cooperstown Pavilion is complete. Residents are asked to not park on the grass. The new playground is in and discussions have begun to add new paths to the pickleball and tennis storage sheds at Freedom Park. Scorecards on all tennis courts have been replaced. The pickleball courts at The Palms have been resurfaced, painted and nets have been replaced. The Riviera Spa Massage is up and running in the new location and we are looking forward to their return to the community. The Committee is working on a brochure to be placed in both gyms so residents will recognize their FitWell Committee members. Each month the focus of the Committee will be a topic pertaining to the needs of fitness activities in Solivita – classes, gyms, Wednesday Lectures, fields and courts, Heath Fair, and budget.
Solivita Landscape Committee
The Solivita Landscape Committee (SLC) currently consists of twelve resident volunteer members. Each member monitors a specific zone(s), which encompass various sections of Solivita. Members visually inspect resident yards and common areas on a monthly basis monitoring for compliance of the HOA Landscape Contract. The SLC meets on the fourth Monday of every month with HOA Management and Floralawn Management. With the addition of newly constructed homes in Vittoria, Versilla and Villaverla, there will be a need to expand zones and add committee members. Solivita landscaping plays a significant part in the aesthetics of our community. If you are interested in helping to assure that the quality, aesthetics and maintenance of our community landscape is maintained, please join us by contacting: Raj Hanooman, Administrative Assistant, at rhanooman@evergreen-LM.com.
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[ Department ] Articles
From the World of Fitness & Wellness By Jamar Edge Director of Fitness & Wellness Two months have come and gone for 2020 and now we are into the third! I really hope you are holding tight to your healthy New Year’s Resolutions.
Did You Know?
I did a bit of researching into how active adults in the U.S. actually are and I found some interesting stats, so I decided to share them here. I decided to title this segment: “Did you know?” 1. Less than ¼ of Americans meet all national physical activity guidelines. 2. Adults need 150 minutes of moderate-intensity training per week. This includes two days of muscle-strengthening activities. 3. Health benefits associated with regular physical activity include: a. Lower risk of all-cause mortality b. Lower risk of cardiovascular disease mortality c. Lower risk of cardiovascular disease (including heart disease and stroke) d. Lower risk of hypertension
Health Home Health Team to provide monthly blood screenings for homeowners. Our first endeavor into this program was on February 5th and was very well received. So mark your calendars, as our next day of screenings will be on Wednesday, March 4th at 10am and 1pm in the Riviera Spa & Fitness Center lobby. They also provide other services, so be sure to inquire.
Solivita FitWell Committee
I want to say thank you to our outgoing Committee members: Rob Smith, Dottie Fertig and Russ D’Amato. They all have been a huge asset to our FitWell (Fitness & Wellness) Committee and will be greatly missed. At this time, I would like to welcome our newest members of the Committee: Carrie Vance, Francisco Castro and Steve Gambino. We are looking forward to working with them and are excited about what they are bringing to the FitWell community here in Solivita. Pictured below are your Solivita FitWell Committee Members (from left to right): Carrie Vance, Francisco Castro, Margo Vento, Susan Sweet (Chair), Joan Kraus, Sheila Smith and Steve Gambino. The Committee can be reached at WellnessCommitttee@SolivitaHOA.com.
This list goes on but I decided to start with just a few. The stats provided clearly show just how important regular physical activity is for quality of life. There is no need to wait until next year to have a “Resolution.” Resolving to live a healthier life can be done any day of the year.
Blood Pressure Screenings
Something new to the program will be monthly blood pressure screenings. We are working in unison with the Encompass
A FRIEND WHO HAS LEFT US, BUT IS NOT FORGOTTEN John Wesley Yale Eustace, Sr. - “Jack” Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the resident who recently passed away.
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Jamar Edge 863-496-3522 jedge@evergreen-LM.com
COMMUNITY CHANNEL 732 Do you need to post your special club event to the Community Channel (Channel 732)? Send your slide information (Club Name, Date, Time, Location, Ticket Cost and Contact Info) to CommunityChannel@Evergreen-LM.com. Each slide will contain only essential information, as it’s only on screen for 10-13 seconds.
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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. April courses will open for registration starting on Monday, March 2nd. March courses are on sale now. For more information, to register for courses or purchase annual passes by cash, check or credit card, please visit the Activities Office or call 863-427-7125.
Great Decisions Discussions 2020 Annual Pass Each year the Foreign Policy Association produces a study guide with eight of the most critical global issues facing America. Great Decisions (GD) is an annual ticketed pass offering eight discussions that meets monthly January-May and SeptemberNovember. The discussion of the month is conducted by moderator Thomas Gallagher Ph. D. The 2020 GD Annual Pass cost is $39 (or $44 for two sharing a book). Discussion Topic: Red Sea Security. The Red Sea has remained vital for global trade since the time of ancient Egypt. Once home to the spice trade, the Red Sea now sees millions of barrels of oil a day transported across its waters. With major nations like China, France, Italy, and the U.S. building large ports and bases in the region, what does the future of the region look like? How important is Red Sea security for global security? Can the region be a place of global cooperation? • Tuesday, March 3rd at 11am in the Gator Room and • Wednesday, March 18th at 4pm in The Palms
Art and Literary Lecture 2020 Annual Pass
This pass will allow residents admittance to any of approximately 13 Art and Literary Lectures starting in January 2020 for $20 per person. Art lectures are presented by Art Historian Jan Clanton and Literary Lectures are
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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 Art Lectures in the Ballroom at 1pm: • Tuesday, March 17th: The Kimbell Art Museum. We will turn left off of I-95 to see our next museum. You may not have heard of Kay and Velma Kimbell but they demanded only the very best for their collection in Fort Worth.
The Kimbell Art Museum. Editorial credit: Aneese / Shutterstock.com
• Tuesday, April 7th: The Broad Museum Next Literary Lectures in the Gator Room at 4pm: • Monday, March 23rd: Shakespeare’s Sonnets*. The bulk of Shakespeare’s working life was spent in the theater world of London, where he established himself professionally by the early 1590’s. He enjoyed success not only as a playwright and poet, but also as
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[ Solivita University] an actor and shareholder in an acting company. The overarching theme in Shakespeare’s Sonnets is LOVE. There are three specific underlying themes, brevity of life, transience of beauty and the trappings of desire. Join us as we explore a few of the best known Sonnets. (*NOTE: Book title change from previously advertised book which was Fire and Fury Inside the Trump White House.) • Monday, April 27th: Lights Out by Ted Koppel
possible, wait for full retirement or delay it to get higher monthly income? Review of the strategies for when to take Social Security.
Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam
Tuesdays, March 10th, 17th and 24th The Palms at 1pm Tuition: $20 per student Professor: Joyce Salisbury, PhD, Solivita resident and retired professor of history and religious studies has written more than ten books and has lectured all over the world. Course Description: Billions of people around the world follow these world Joyce Salisbury, PhD religions, and this course will offer some understanding about their beliefs. It will begin with the oldest urban religion -- Hinduism -that began long before historical time. Today, Hinduism is the 3rd largest religion, with about 900 million adherents. Then, we will look at Buddhism that emerged out of Hinduism in the sixth century BC and spread all over the world in the subsequent centuries. Today, there are about 535 million Buddhists. Finally, we will consider Islam that began in AD seventh century with the visions of the prophet Muhammad. Today, Islam is the second largest religion with about 1.8 billion followers.
Social Security Basics
Thursdays, March 12th and 19th Gator Room at 6:30pm Tuition: $7 per student Professor: Lita Epstein, author of the book The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Social Security and Medicare, has been writing about Social Security for 17 years. Course Description: Should you take Social Security as soon as
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The Borinqueneers Film Documentary Encore Presentation by popular demand
Tuesday, March 31st Ballroom at 1pm Tuition: Complimentary entrance, pre-registration not required Film Producer, Director, Writer and Class Presenter: Solivita resident Noemi Figueroa Soulet is an experienced advertising consultant and producer to major advertising agencies for the Hispanic commercial market. Born in Puerto Rico, she was raised in New York’s Spanish Harlem and has a degree in Education from NYU and a Certificate in Digital Filmmaking from SUNY Westchester Community College.
Class Description: The Borinqueneers chronicles the neverbefore told story of the Puerto Rican 65th Infantry Regiment, the only all-Hispanic unit in U.S. Army history. Through compelling interviews and rare archival footage, this film explores the unique experience of the 65th, culminating in the Korean War and the dramatic events that would threaten its very existence. Continued on page 12
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[ Solivita University ] Continued from pages 10-11 Having performed with distinction early in the Korean War, the Borinqueneers of the 65th would face their greatest challenge in the fall of 1952, when more than 100 soldiers were arrested. Nine years in the making, this award-winning film was aired nationally on PBS, the Pentagon Channel and on the Armed Forces Network. There will be an archival photo display and a question-andanswer session with the participation of a Borinqueneer veteran following the film.
Beginner’s Conversational Spanish
Every Tuesday and Thursday in April, Starting on April 7th Aegean Room at 10am Tuition: $40 per student Instructor: Solivita resident Carmen Boos, born in Cuba,
earned her B.A. in English and Spanish from Montclair State University. She relocated to Miami Dade County and taught ESL at the Miami Beach Adult Center. In 2004, she was awarded Outstanding ESL Educator from 23 Adult Centers. For the last 5 years, she volunteers her time teaching ESL at the local Poinciana Community Center. Course Description: This course will focus on the two verbs which mean To Be--Ser & Estar and the rules which govern the use of each through dialogues. These verbs will be presented, and the interrogatives will also be introduced. Assorted Carmen Boos vocabulary lists will be used. The students will be able to request phrases to use for a working vocabulary they can use with local Spanish speaking people.
Spring in Solivita!
By Brad Thompson Branch Manager, Floralawn We hope you’re enjoying the change of annuals in the common area beds around Solivita! The fresh color has a way of cheering everyone up. Wondering about the mowing timetable? Our crews will continue mowing per the bi-weekly winter schedule through March.
Gardeners, Beware of Snakes
As winter gives way to spring, many of you will find yourselves drawn outside for some work around your lawns and courtyards. Please watch out for snakes. In Solivita, black racer and black rat snakes are most common, but they are mild-mannered and not venomous. Sometimes snakes will curl up inside planters and containers, so be alert. Don’t reach into a container without checking inside it first. Be on the alert for venomous coral snakes. They are striped red, yellow, and black. Coral snakes can be easily confused with non-venomous kingsnakes, which are instead
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striped red, black, and then yellow. Remember, “Red on black is a friend of Jack, red on yellow kills a fellow.” Less common but also worth noting are the many species of rattlesnakes that live in central Florida. Rattlesnakes are easily identifiable by the rattles on the ends of their tails, which they shake when threatened or surprised.Do not prod or lure snakes in any way. Call animal control for relocation services and leave snakes alone.
March Tasks
While the turfgrass is still dormant and shrub growth is not as vigorous, our Floralawn crews can focus on different projects around the community. Our teams continue to enjoy the change of pace! Late winter/early spring tasks include irrigation system maintenance, landscape design changes, annual flower replacement, tree and bush maintenance, fertilization, trimming, and weeding. Continued on page 13
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[ Department] Articles
Brad’s article continued from page 12
This month we continue trimming the crape myrtle trees. We began earlier this year and will continue until we’ve got them all. (Ever count how many crapes we have in Solivita? You see why pruning them is a two-month process!) They will grow large and lovely again this coming spring and summer. Interested in seeing Floralawn’s calendar? Go to SolivitaHOA. com. You’ll need your log-in credentials. Once you’ve logged in,
you’ll see a menu across the top. Click on “Docs and Info,” and when that page loads, scroll down on the left to “Floralawn.” In that link, you’ll find our service calendars. Any more questions? Don’t hesitate to call us at 863-225-9565. Join me at 9am in the Gator Room on Friday, March 27th for our Coffee Talk hour.
Chef’s Corner
By Chef Curtis Hillard CEC, CPC Executive Chef, Stonegate Golf Club
Did You Know….
The tamarind tree grows easily in South Florida and requires little care. The fruiting season in Florida is February to May, but there is often a tree here or there with fruit out of the normal season.
Tamarind Glazed Mahi Mahi
INGREDIENTS • 1/2 cup tamarind paste • 2 cups hot water • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil • 1 medium onion, finely chopped Tamarind Tree • 6 cloves garlic, minced • 1 large tomato, diced • 3 teaspoons sugar • 1 teaspoon ground coriander • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter • 4 mahi mahi fish fillets (6 ounces or 170 grams each) DIRECTIONS 1. Place tamarind in a medium bowl and cover with hot water. Let soak for 15 minutes; mash tamarind. 2. Strain tamarind through a sieve, pressing on solids and scraping the bottom of the sieve to remove pulp. Discard the seeds and set strained liquid aside. 3. Heat oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high.
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4. Add onion and garlic and cook, stirring often, until golden (5-8 minutes). 5. Stir in tomato, sugar, coriander, cinnamon, cumin, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and reserved tamarind liquid. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce is thickened. Add more water if sauce becomes too dry. Stir in 1 tablespoon butter and season with salt and pepper; keep sauce warm. 6. Season fish with salt and pepper. 7. Melt remaining 2 tablespoons butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. 8. Sear fish, turning once, until cooked through (2-3 minutes per side). 9. Spoon sauce over fish. Serve with yams, sweet potato hash, rice, barley or quinoa.
Curtis Hillard 863-427-7150, ext. 4717 chef@stonegategolf.com
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[ Department ] Articles
Rainbows and Four-Leaf Clovers By Shelley Destefano Community Concierge
One always looks at a rainbow in awe! It is beautiful, magical, and makes you feel lucky that it appeared in front of you. Similarly, you would probably feel just as lucky if you found a four-leaf clover. Thankfully, even without the elusive clover, we are fortunate to have choices, options and good people in our lives. Therefore, in one way or another we are all lucky. You also have the option to enjoy the important dates and things to do listed in my article this month!
century and believed to have died on March 17, 461. According to history.com, the most well known legend of St. Patrick is that he explained the Holy Trinity (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) using the three leaves of a native Irish clover, the shamrock. The threeleaf clover should not to be confused with the four-leaf clover, which is a rare variation of the shamrock and considered to be good luck. It is often said that Ireland is home to more four-leaf clovers than any other place in the world, which gave rise to the phrase, “The luck of the Irish.”
International Flower and Garden Festival
Stamp and Scrapbook Expo
Epcot (located at 200 Epcot Center Drive in Orlando) will have their International Flower and Garden Festival from March 4thJune 1st. Disney is offering a 3-Day Discover Disney ticket for $175 plus tax or a 4-Day ticket for $20 more plus tax to Florida residents. After purchasing the ticket, you will be able to use it any 3 or 4 days through June 30th. Please visit disneyworld. disney.go.com or call 407-938-4893 for more information.
Bike Week
Of course, I have to mention Bike Week in Daytona from March 6th-15th, which is the World’s Largest Motorcycle Event. There are hundreds of events for motorcycle enthusiasts to enjoy. Please visit officialbikeweek.com for more information.
St. Patrick’s Day
This year the holiday falls on Tuesday, March 17th and is celebrated throughout the world, depicting true Irish culture with parades, special foods, music, dancing, drinking, and a whole lot of green! Named for the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick was a great minister of Christianity during the fifth
Do you enjoy making cards, stamps and scrapbooks? If so, you can visit the Gaylord Palms Resort (located at 6000 W. Osceola Parkway in Kissimmee). It is a two-day expo event on Friday, March 20th from 9am-6pm and Saturday, March 21st from 9am-5pm. Please visit scrapbookexpo.com/2020-expo-showlist/or-20 for more information.
Sidewalk Art Festival
From March 20th-22nd, you can attend the Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival (located at 150 W. Morse Boulevard). This is one of the nation’s oldest, largest and most prestigious outdoor art festivals. It debuted in March 1960 as a community project to bring local artists and art lovers together. It is produced by an allvolunteer board and draws more than 350,000 visitors each year. An independent panel of three judges select the 225 artists who will exhibit their works. Please visit wpsaf.org for more information.
Blueberry Picking
You can visit Southern Hill Farms (located at 16651 Schofield Road in Clermont) to pick blueberries. Please visit southernhillfarms. com or call 407-986-5806 for more information. Make sure you call before going because the days and hours vary. Although I have not received my pot of gold, I feel like I have done good things for people. I live a peaceful life and love everything about it, so I consider myself as lucky as a four-leaf clover. We will all be lucky after our St. Patrick’s Day party, as we’ll be seeing rainbows. Hopefully you are as beautiful as a rainbow inside, as it is sure to radiate in your daily life! Community Concierge 863-427-7100 sdestefano@evergreen-LM.com
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Reflections | March 2020 |
[ Department] Articles
Reflections |  March 2020 |
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[ Department ] Articles
When A Disaster Hits... Submitted by the Solivita CERT Team
YOU HAVE QUESTIONS: • What am I going to eat and drink if power is out and access to groceries is cut off? • How will I know what is going on? • What tools and supplies will I need to mitigate damage to my home? • What kinds of information will I need to recover my property and normal life? • What supplies should I take with me if I am forced to leave my home? ANSWER: A DISASTER KIT. First and foremost, you will need canned or dry, non-perishable foods that will carry you through at least three days. Select foods you will actually eat. Don’t forget a manual can opener; power may be out. Water is also very important—a gallon per person per day. Buy it or refill soft drink bottles. Be sure to have a battery-powered radio to keep up with the weather outlook, road conditions and disaster-related relief information. A weather radio is an excellent investment—it will alert you to significant emergency situations. Keep its battery in good shape. It is best to keep cell phones reserved for real communication needs. Throw in some common household tools for fixing minor damage to your home. These include duct tape, garbage bags, 100 feet of rope, some tarps, a few hand tools and enough flashlights for each family member, with spare batteries for all. Note: candles are the cause of much damage in disasters, when power fails. Also, stock a first aid kit, matches, mosquito repellent and maybe a lantern. IF you have a landline (e.g., Frontier), an “oldfashioned” corded phone does not need power to function. Gather together your important papers: copies of insurance policies (house, car, life, medical coverage information), list of contacts for these and family and friends, list of doctors and medications, legal documents, bank account information, credit
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card information, normal bills, and passports. Put these copies in a water-tight container for protection as well as quick access and transport. Your smart phone can store most of this, but what happens when the battery runs down and you don’t have power to recharge its battery? Don’t forget pet supplies and meds, plus identification information in case they run away in the confusion. A photo of them with you is also helpful to establish ownership. If you have particular medical support needs, plan how to deal with keeping these operating or using portable units. Delivery services may not be able to operate in heavy weather. You will need a suitable container for all this stuff—plastic bin(s), even garbage bags, or cardboard boxes. A key caution here is don’t get the largest bin you can find or you won’t be able to lift or carry it; smaller ones may be better and help you organize. If you decide to or need to leave (because your home is damaged and not fit for occupancy) take all these things with you plus blankets and clothing for the weather you are heading toward. You may get stranded in your car along the way. Smaller containers will fit in your car more easily. WHEN SHOULD YOU ASSEMBLE THIS KIT? You can gather all this when you need it if you have prior warning as in a hurricane scenario, but what if the disaster is a tornado in the middle of the night—tonight? Do you have appropriate food put aside now? BE PREPARED; no one can do it for you! Get working on this now before you need it. Do a little each week; set up a schedule to develop each component. We are in tornado season in Florida now and hurricane season begins June 1st. These recommendations are provided by your Solivita Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). For more information on supplies, check with the Concierge or go to SolivitaHOA. com > Club Directory > CERT > Documents.
Reflections | March 2020 |
Golf Cart and Vehicle Safety Tips
[ Department] Articles
By Madalyn Colon Site Supervisor, Vital Security & Investigations As we drive into March, I’d like to share some tips for the spring season that can help keep our Solivita motorists safe by following safe driving practices. No matter how skilled of a driver you are, it’s a good idea to reflect on the basics of traffic safety from time to time just to make sure that you are being careful enough to keep yourself - and other drivers and pedestrians - as safe as possible.
Vehicle Safety Tips:
Golf Cart Tips:
3. Engage the brakes slow and evenly as you approach intersections. Not every driver has the proper training to handle adverse driving conditions, so don’t assume you know what the other driver wants to do. It’s better to anticipate their movements.
1. Never drive recklessly or joy ride. Be courteous to other drivers and obey vehicle traffic laws and the rules of the road. 2. It’s always a good idea to use hand signals to indicate upcoming turns in addition to turn signals, which may be small or go unnoticed by vehicles behind you.
1. Stay alert. Actively pay attention to your actions and those of the drivers around you when you are driving. 2. Using the signal light and switching lane works hand in hand. It is important to maintain a safe distance prior to changing lanes and also ensure you check for any car coming up in your blind spot.
4. Buckle up. Wearing your seat belt is an essential safety tip for drivers and the law. 5. Obey speed limits. When driving, it’s important to stick to the posted speed limit at all times. The restrictions placed on vehicle speed is not established arbitrarily. Rather, they are carefully selected to maximize safety for drivers and for individuals in the homes, businesses, and other organizations in the areas where roadways are located.
3. Always check blind spots before turning. When making a lefthand turn, yield to the through traffic lane and merge into that lane before turning left. 4. Avoid excessive speeds, sudden starts and stops, and avoid sharp turns at fast speeds. 5. Reduce speed depending on the driving conditions and driving environment. Reduce speed on hills, inclines or declines, and blind corners. Yield to pedestrians.
6. Exercise patience. Many accidents are caused by impatient drivers who are rushing to get from point A to point B. While time is certainly a valid consideration when traveling, safety is even more important. After all, if you are involved in an accident, you’ll certainly experience more of a challenge arriving at your destination on time than if you simply exhibit patience while driving. Madalyn Colon 863-440-7572 madalync@vitalsecurity.com
SPEED ENFORCEMENT The HOA, Security, and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office receive multiple complaints of speeding each week from residents. The Sheriff’s Office has been asked for their assistance in speed enforcement. Receiving a speeding ticket is not only financially costly, but can lead to much more serious results.
Reflections | March 2020 |
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[ Department ] Articles
The R2R Resource Center is Here for You! March Workshop: Your Safety & Security
Friday, March 20th • 10am • Ballroom Utilizing common safety tips, being aware of your surroundings, and using proven techniques to escape a detrimental situation will go a long way with helping you stay safe! Hear about the services provided by Vital Security, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Senior Connections Center, as well as the benefits of having Citizens Assisted Patrol to help the Solivita community. The following will be covered.
Office Hours
The Resource Center is open Monday through Friday, from 9am-5pm (located above the Marketplace Bistro in the Village).
Transportation Survey Results
The Resource Center has been analyzing the results from the transportation surveys and determining the transportation needs of the residents inside and outside of Solivita. We met with Osceola Council on Aging to explore opportunities to provide transportation services in the local area.
Helping You Get Around •
Vital Security • The services Vital Security provides Solivita and its residents Polk County Sheriff’s Office • Being aware of your surroundings • Common sense safety tips to help avoid being the victim of a crime • Basic safety tips and techniques to enable you to escape less than desirable situations
Local grocery delivery and shopping needs are becoming easier for Solivita residents in the near future. We hope to rollout a pilot program and share the “how to” information in the next issue of Reflections. • The Resource Center volunteers have information about using Lyft, Uber, the Pink Bus and the SunRail Train. They are just a phone call away (863-236-9973) or access information online (SolivitaHOA.com).
Citizens Assisted Patrol (CAP) • How CAP serves you and the community Senior Connections Center • Keeping your home safe • The effects of falls and how to prevent falling This workshop is offered in conjunction with the Energizing Christian Women’s Connection. All R2R Workshops are free to Solivita residents, but advance registration is requested. Call 863-236-9973 or email SolivitaR2R@gmail.com to reserve your spot on March 20th!
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Decluttering After the Holidays
Contact the Resource Center to get a list of individuals/ companies that can help you clean up and spruce up your home. We can also provide you with a list of organizations accepting donations and whether they will pick up heavy items for you. *The information given is for informational purposes only. It is neither a recommendation nor an endorsement. The center cannot be held liable. R2R Resource Center 863-236-9973 SolivitaR2R@gmail.com
Reflections | March 2020 |
[ Solivita Information]
RELAY RALLY FOR THE CURE
9TH ANNUAL SIGNATURE EVENT • APRIL 5TH • 12PM-9PM • VILLAGE CENTER SAVE THE TIMES below for the Rally Events! Learn more on this page and the ad on page 15. All proceeds go to the American Cancer Society. • 11am - Survivor and Caregiver Registration • 12pm - Opening Ceremony followed by Survivor’s and Caregiver’s Laps • 12:30pm - Dragon Boat Ceremony at Boat Dock • 1pm-8pm - Non-stop Donated Entertainment on Three Stages • 1pm-8pm - Walk Laps for the Cure and $100 Solivita Gift Card Chance Drawing • 1pm-7pm - Over 75 Silent Auction Gifts (accepting credit cards, cash or check) • 1pm-8pm - Food, Games, Desserts & Drinks • 2:30pm-4:30pm - Dance-A-Thon at Bridge Stage • 8pm - Luminaria Ceremony & Reflection Wall • 9pm - Closing Ceremony
REFLECTION WALL & LUMINARIA BAGS
During the Luminaria Ceremony, we’ll have a REFLECTION WALL honoring our loved ones lost to cancer. Please submit a picture of your loved one, family member, friend, or even your pet. The photo needs to be an individual portrait and as clear as possible. The picture can be color or black and white and needs to be sent it in JPG format. You can also take a picture of a photo to submit. Also, include up to three lines of text (for example: name, date, and a short one-line message). Send the photo and information to Susie Q at susieq429@ gmail.com. Also, you can contact Susie at 407-729-6850 with any concerns. Please submit the photos by Wednesday, March 25th. LUMINARIA BAGS can be picked up at the Farmers Market or contact Patti Whittle at 609-440-9995.
“HEART TO HEART” CARING CARDS
As we “Rally for the Cure” on April 5th, stop by the “Heart to Heart” Caring Card booth to sign a handcrafted inspirational card. Help us send an uplifting positive message to someone fighting cancer. Cards may be taken for you to send or we will deliver to those in need of a caring thought. Donations are always appreciated. If your craft is card making or if you’d like to donate your time to make some, please contact Kathy Gambino at sgambino@comcast.net. For more information, call Susie Q at 407-729-6850.
FLOWER GARDEN OF LOVE
We will be taking orders for our “Flower Garden of Love” to be displayed at RELAY. Every pinwheel flower is beautifully hand painted with your words of love, encouragement, favorite memory or just “miss you,” honoring those touched with cancer or loved ones we have lost to cancer. Flowers will be placed in the Garden of Love at the RELAY event. You may pick up your flower on Monday, April 6th at the garden. A donation of $10 is requested with all the proceeds going to the American Cancer Society. Orders will be taken at the Purple Relay Tent at the Farmers Market or contact Susie Q at 407-729-6850. All orders are due by Wednesday, March 25th in order to be painted in time.
Reflections | March 2020 |
DRAGON BOAT ROSE PETALS OF LOVE
Sunday, April 5th • 12:30pm • Boat Dock The Solivita Dragon Boat Club will once again participate at the “Rally for the Cure” Village Event with a Dragon Boat Paddle and Flower Dedication Ceremony. There are several ways to participate in this event, which are both memorable and celebratory. This year’s survivors are invited to come paddle with club members during the actual flower ceremony. Anyone may donate for rose petals to be tossed during the ceremony in memory of, or to honor a loved one, plus sign their name on the special paddle. Throughout the day anyone can make a donation to ride or paddle on the boat and personally toss petals. For more information or to sign up to paddle as a survivor, please email solivitadragonboat@gmail.com or see Susie Q at the Farmer’s Market to sign the paddle.
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[ Solivita Information ]
RELAY COMMUNITY EVENTS
9TH ANNUAL TALENT SHOW
Sunday, March 8th • 6pm • Ballroom Sponsored by Playing for Life Relay Team. Don’t miss this wonderful event showcasing our amazingly talented residents! Doors open at 5:30pm. There will be a cash bar, basket raffle, 50/50 and silent auction. All proceeds go to the American Cancer Society. General Admission is $15 and Reserved Seating is $20. For tickets or information, call Rudi at 201-213-7251, Dee at 863-427-4947, Sue at 863-496-4245 or Nancy Beck at 443-983-5030. Hurry - it’s almost sold out!
VICTORY CASINO CRUISE
Monday, March 16th • 8:30am • Freedom Park Sponsored by Playing for Life Relay Team. The bus will leave Freedom Park at 8:30am and will return at approximately 6:15pm. The cost is $38 per person, which includes roundtrip bus transportation, boarding pass, food voucher for any entrée (including soft drinks or coffee), free drink voucher (drinks free while gambling), and $20 FREE PLAY. For tickets or information, call Rudi at 201-213-7251.
MAGICAL EXPERIENCES WITH THE SOLIVITA SORCERERS Thursday, March 26th • 3pm-4pm • Ballroom The Solivita Sorcerers invite you to observe Magical Experiences as we perform our favorite magic effects for charity. There is no admission fee for this show; however, donations (of any amount) for Relay For Life will be appreciated. Most of our effects are considered “closeup magic” (no sawing any spectators in half!), so the Solivita Showtime Entertainers will be assisting with cameras to project our performances on the screen for all to see (just like on America’s Got Talent). The doors will open at 2:30pm and popcorn and lemonade will be provided at no cost. Please join us as we share our hobby with you. All guests welcome! If you would like more information, call Sid at 423-596-5154 or Tom at 704-904-9919.
COMMUNITY EVENTS APRIL REFLECTIONS
ASSEMBLY, DELIVERY & PICK-UP Friday, March 27th • 8:30am • Ballroom Newsletter assembly volunteers are asked to meet at 8:30am in the Ballroom on Friday, March 27th. Delivery volunteers should arrive between 9:45am10am and are asked not to leave the Ballroom until all neighborhoods have been completely assembled. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE YOUR NEWSLETTER by Monday, March 30th you will need to pick it up at the Concierge Desk in Administration anytime between 9am-5pm.
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SAM’S CLUB MEMBERSHIP
Monday, March 2nd • 10am-1pm • Ballroom Hallway Join the club and get over $140 in instant savings. Join as a Plus Member and get over $100 in instant savings, as well as exclusive access to cash rewards, free shipping and more! For more resident membership specials and prices, please see onsite representative.
COMMUNITY SHRED DAY
Monday, March 9th • 10am-2pm Freedom Park Clean out your office and home! Bring your old bills, papers, old check books, and sensitive documents to shred for FREE!
Reflections | March 2020 |
[ Solivita Information]
COMMUNITY EVENTS FLORIDA FIREARM LEGISLATION: THE DEBATE, HISTORY & PUBLIC POLICY
SPECIAL NIGHTS Hosted by Stonegate Golf Club Mosaics is planned to be renovated during the month of March and due to scheduling, please note of new days, times and locations for events below. 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 March 2nd and 30th • 1pm Starlite Ballroom 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. 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. KARAOKE TUESDAYS March 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th and 31st • 6pm-9pm Art Gallery 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.
Reflections | March 2020 |
Tuesday, March 24th • 3pm-5pm • RSF2 Sponsored by Seniors for Safe Schools & Communities. Presented by Art Jamison, former State Trooper, Firearms Instructor and Corporate Executive Protection Provider. Identifying effective gun policies that would be widely viewed as fair and reasonable has been a significant challenge faced by policy makers at every level of government. There have been significant obstacles to identifying those potential policy solutions. Until those obstacles can be overcome the challenge will remain a significant one. Join the discussion and gain an understanding of the primary obstacles standing in the way of a rational debate and finding common ground for consensus rather than conflict and confrontation. Without that understanding policy makers cannot be encouraged or pressured to address and remove the obstacles leading to meaningful firearm policy solutions that consider the need for public safety while also protecting Second Amendment rights. All Solivita residents are welcome to attend; however, space is limited and reservations are required. Call Shelli at 973-207-1664 or Susan at 540-903-1640.
APRIL FOOL’S DANCE
Wednesday, April 1st • 6:30pm-9:30pm • Ballroom Sponsored by Solivita Friends Helping Those in NEED. Join us for a dance featuring DJ Jo Magic! There will be themed Raffle Baskets, 50/50, amazing door prizes and a Silent Auction. Doors open at 6pm. Tickets are $10 + a non-perishable food item. All proceeds will benefit the Food Pantry at St. Ann’s Haines City. Tickets can be purchased at the March Main Ticket Sales (cash or check). Popcorn machine will be popping and there will be a cash bar. You are welcome to bring your own snacks/ appetizers. Tickets will go fast for this dance!!!
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[ Solivita Information ]
COMMUNITY EVENTS
SoFEES FOOD COLLECTION Thursday, March 12th-Saturday, March 14th • 7pm Ballroom Lobby SoFEES is teaming up with the Solivita Theatre Group to help the children of Poinciana during their performances of Deathtrap in the Ballroom. Please support this event so we can continue our mission to help children succeed! The food collection will be in the Ballroom lobby. Please donate food items like peanut butter, tuna, soup, granola bars, canned pasta, and other items that can fit in a child’s backpack. It takes over 800 food items to feed our 150 children for the weekend. Please help! Contact Rita at 215850-7122 or Janet at 734-486-3451 for additional information.
The Packing Crew
HADASSAH MAH JONGG TOURNAMENT & LUNCHEON “PLAYING FOR A CAUSE” Monday, March 16th • 10:30am • Ballroom Solivita Hadassah is looking forward to hosting its Annual Mah Jongg Tournament and Luncheon to benefit medical research. Our donations have contributed to the great strides made in combating ALS and Melanoma. Your entry fee of $30 will afford you a fun filled day of food, Mah Jongg, and cash awards. A Beginners’ Section will be available for those who play infrequently and/or are new to the game. You must bring a 2019 Mah Jongg Card. You may register at the March Main Ticket Sales or by contacting Ruthie at 863-547-4658, Irene at 863-427-2304, or Karen at 863-547-4563.
January Mah Jongg Lessons
ART IN CINEMA: VIVERE! ANDREA BOCELLI LIVE IN TUSCANY Thursday, April 2nd • 1:30pm • Ballroom Sponsored by Artium Patroni. We start our new year’s film offerings with Vivere, Andrea Bocelli’s live concert in captivating Tuscany, described in Bocelli’s own words: “It’s my land, a land that loves silence as much as I do. And if I break this silence with my voice, it’s because I want to pay tribute to these places and to my people. Music penetrates this land, it flows across it and flies off far away. It’s a message of love.” Vivere was recorded live at the magical open air Teatro del Silencio in Lajatico, Bocelli’s hometown. Conceptualized by Bocelli, the amphitheatre is nestled within the natural contours of the Tuscan hills. Vivere also features an array of international artists: pianist Lang Lang (playing Hungarian Rhapsody), Chris Botti (Italia on trumpet), Kenny G (A Te on sax) and sopranos Laura Pansini, Heather Headley and Sarah Brightman, with whom Bocelli sings Italian love songs in duet. Enjoy with us this free event at the newly refurbished Starlite Ballroom. Contact Maria Laano (863-427-2549) or Zynia Rionda (703-508-4820) for any inquiries.
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Reflections | March 2020 |
[ Solivita Information]
COMMUNITY EVENTS READ ACROSS AMERICA DAY
SHALOM CLUB PASSOVER SEDER
Monday, March 2nd • 11am-1pm • Art Gallery Sponsored by Solivita Book Circle. Join your friends from the Solivita Book Circle to celebrate reading and Dr. Seuss’ Birthday. Free and open to all Solivita readers. Learn about Polk County Bookmobile services and borrow a book or two. Enjoy birthday cake and meet the Solivita Sol Writers and see their books!
Thursday, April 9th • 5:30pm • Ballroom The Shalom Club will hold a second night community Passover Seder. We welcome both members and nonmembers to join us as we celebrate Passover. The dinner will be a catered event and buffet service by Hampton Catering. The cost is $30 for club members and $35 for non-members and guests. The Passover menu will offer gefilte fish OR chopped liver, matzoh ball soup, a choice of brisket, chicken or salmon, all accompanied by two side dishes, dessert and coffee. Wine is also included. For reservations or additional information, please contact Phyllis Secan at 863-496-7328 or phyllis.secan46@ gmail.com. The deadline for purchase or refund is March 16th.
STARLITERS 17TH ANNUAL ALL-RESIDENT PRODUCTION, “BROADWAY: OUR WAY” Friday, April 17th-Sunday, April 19th • 7pm • Ballroom Presented by the Solivita Starliters. It has been a long time since the Starliters presented their first production in 2004. Many of our fans have been to every show, and we have enjoyed building our audiences and our cast and crew as our community has grown over the years. You may be wondering what the title of this year’s show means. We are going to present five mini-musicals including Oklahoma, Wizard of Oz, and Shrek the Musical, plus additional music from a dozen more Broadway shows. Each will be done “Our Way,” featuring our talented soloists, chorus, and dancers with technical support from our experienced Tech Crew. Non-refundable reserved seat tickets are $25 and open seating tickets are $20. Tickets are on sale at the Farmers Market on Mondays and Fridays from 10am-1pm until all tickets are sold. Tickets will also be available at Main Ticket Sales on Monday, March 2nd. You may purchase tickets from cast members or one hour before Starliter rehearsals; check the Reflections Calendar Insert for rehearsal locations and times, or call Cheryl or Stan at 863-290-5740.
GIVE KIDS THE WORLD BREAKFAST & GAME DAY Thursday, April 30th • 10am-2pm • Ballroom Where are critically ill children and their families treated to a cost free dream vacation? Give Kids the World (GKTW)! Please support our fundraiser. There will a buffet breakfast in the Ballroom. Bring your own games (mahjong, canasta, scrabble, rummikub, etc.) and have some fun while contributing to a great cause. Tables of 4 people are $60 and there will be individual door From left: Madalyn Phillips, Maryann Kennedy, DeeDee Martin (Director prizes and raffles for baskets of Volunteer Services, GKTW), Patty Morris and Esta McNamara and gift cards! Please contact Maryann Kennedy at 863-427-2352 for more information.
BLOOD DRIVE Monday, April 13th • 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. It’s not necessary to reserve a time slot to donate blood but if you would like to, go to donor.oneblood.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/722629. The next Blood Drive is Monday, June 15th.
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[ Solivita Information ]
COMMUNITY EVENTS
UPCOMING WELLNESS EVENTS DATE
ACTIVITY
Wednesday, March 4th 10am • RSF2 Wednesday, March 4th 2pm • RSF2
Wednesday, March 11th 10am • RSF2
Wednesday, March 11th 2pm • RSF2
Wednesday, March 18th 10am • RSF2
Wednesday, March 18th 2pm • RSF2
Wednesday, March 25th 10am • RSF2 Wednesday, March 25th 2pm • RSF2 Wednesday, April 1st 10am • RSF2
Wednesday, April 1st 2pm • RSF2
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Asset Protection 2020: Law Offices of Joseph F. Pippen, Jr. & Assoc. Macular Degeneration: Eye Specialists of Mid Florida, Dr. Erica Benson. What is macular degeneration and what does it mean to me? Diet Mistakes: Nutrition Awareness. Kait Richardson, RDN, LD Registered Dietitian, will present “Diet Mistakes That Could be Negatively Affecting Your Health & How to Avoid Them!” She will discuss simple yet impactful eating changes you can start making to help you get healthy, feel better, and increase your energy! Whether you want to lose weight, improve your blood labs, or reduce your risk of disease, you’ll learn practical tips from this informative and motivational presentation. Alzheimer’s/Dementia Warning Signs: Alzheimer’s Association. Sylvia M. Leddy, M.A.I.S., Program Manager, Diversity Initiatives will present “The 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s/Dementia and Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body.” The health of the brain and body are connected. Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body will list the strategies to help you age well in the areas of physical health and exercise, diet and nutrition, cognitive activity, and social engagement. Colorectal Cancer Awareness: Poinciana Medical Center. Join us for this free presentation as Colon & Rectal and Bariatric Surgeon, Dr. Cesare Peraglie, provides key insights into colorectal cancer. Hearing Loss & Phone Use: ClearCaptions, Matt Hannan. ClearCaptions is a federally-funded company that provides captioning service at no cost to qualified individuals whose hearing loss inhibits their phone use. Join us to find out if you qualify or to learn more visit ClearCaptions.com. Refreshments will be served. RSVP to Matt Hannan at 407-488-6092. Salt Therapy 101: Riviera Spa Massage. Learn how salt therapy can help you with a wide array of conditions from upper respiratory and sleep issues to stress and skin issues. We’ll also discuss additional services to can be combined to help eliminate your symptoms. RSVP to 407-914-9168. Heart Valve Disease: Osceola Regional Medical Center, Dr. Hiep Nguyen, Cardiothoracic Surgeon. Do you experience shortness of breath when active or lying down? Learn about heart valve disease and its risk increase in seniors. RSVP to 800-447-8206. Stem Cell - Human Tissue Allograph: Advanced Physical Medicine, Dr Esther Pichardo. This presentation will educate residents about alternative regenerative treatment methods and how it helps patients eliminate and decrease pain without surgery. Urinary Incontinence: Advent Health Gynecology. Angel Gonzalez-Rios, MD will present “Urinary Incontinence – The Hidden Epidemic.” What is urinary incontinence? How does the urinary system work? What are the causes and types of urinary incontinence? How is it diagnosed and what are the treatment options?
Reflections | March 2020 |