ON THE COVER
REFLECTIONS OCTOBER 2021 VOLUME 21 ISSUE 10
VILLAGE CENTER HOURS Administration: 863-427-7100 Monday-Friday 9am-5pm K&M Drugs: 863-496-7930 Monday-Friday 9am-6pm Saturday 9am-1pm and Sunday Closed Marketplace Bistro: 863-427-7150, ext. 4724 Daily 8am-7pm, Breakfast 8am-11am Mosaics Restaurant Friday & Saturday 4pm-8pm 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 Facilities After Hours Emergency Phone Number: 863-286-8779 Weekdays 5pm-8pm and Weekends 12pm-5pm
We hope to see you celebrate Solivita’s 21st Prohibition Style Birthday Party on Saturday, October 9th! The party will be held throughout the entire Village Center indoor rooms and outside on the street and ends in a big bang with a fireworks show! Check out the Ticket Packages and the Merchandise on pages 8-10.
CONTACT LIST Community Manager (Association) - Rudy Bautista: 863-701-2969 or rbautista@evergreen-LM.com Club Manager - Sheri Wollschlager: 863-427-7129 or swollschlager@evergreen-LM.com Director of Security & Safety - Elettsy (Lexy) Jimenez: 863-440-7572 or elettesyj@vitalsecurity.com Communications Director - 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 OrlandoCustomerCare@taylormorrison.com. Warranty Request: 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)
Starlite Ballroom Daily 8am-11pm
Floralawn Irrigation Emergency After Hours: 863-225-9565 (Starting at 5pm all calls get routed directly to the on-call manager)
Stonegate Pro Shop: 863-427-7150, ext. 4710 Daily 7am-5pm
K&M Drugs: 863-496-7930 or Fax: 863-496-7931
The Grille at Stonegate: 863-427-7167 Daily 11am-8pm Breakfast Wednesday-Sunday, 8am-11am Happy Hour Daily 3pm-7pm and All Day on Sundays
Resident to Resident Resource Center: 863-236-9973 or SolivitaR2R@gmail.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 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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Membership: 863-427-7143 or solivitamembership@evergreen-LM.com
Riviera Spa & Fitness Center: 863-427-7130 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: 863-427-7151, 863-256-2897 or compliance@solivitahoa.com Visitor/Vendor Gate Access Voice Server: 863-313-1314
Solivita Information
OCTOBER TABLE OF CONTENTS Newsletter Submission & Advertising Info ............................ Page 3 Department Articles .............................................................. Pages 4-21 Solivita University ................................................................. Pages 14-15 Community Events .............................................................. Pages 21-25 Mosaics Special Nights ........................................................... Page 22 Wellness Events ......................................................................... Page 25 A Touch of Class ................................................................... Pages 25-29 Club & Support Group Meeting Lists ........................... Pages 29-34 Club News ............................................................................... Pages 34-51 Neighborhood News .................................................................... Page 52 Resident Kudos .............................................................................. Page 52 Advertisements ..................................................................... Pages 53-88 Activities Events (back of calendar) ................ Insert Pages E1-E3
NEWSLETTER SUBMISSIONS Email submissions to reflections@evergreen-LM.com
NOVEMBER SUBMISSIONS
Calendar submissions and newsletter articles are due on Friday, October 1st. Club insert copies are due by Monday, October 25th, but must be approved by Club Manager, Sheri Wollschlager (email swollschlager@ evergreen-LM.com) or Communications Director, Doug Gilbert (email solivitacommunications@evergreen-LM. com) before they are copied.
DECEMBER SUBMISSIONS
Calendar submissions and newsletter articles are due on Monday, November 1st.
Movies on Channel 732 ................................................. 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
REFLECTIONS DELIVERY If you are leaving or returning to Solivita and want to change the status of Reflections delivery to your home, you can do this on the Gate Website. Log on to the website at websites.vertilinc.com/solivitahoa and click the Reflections button or tab. Change delivery status to YES or NO. Contact Membership for Log on information at SolivitaMembership@Evergreen-LM.com.
FLAGS OVER SOLIVITA The Veterans Club established this project to display a 3’ x 5’ U.S. Flag in front of every home in Solivita to recognize and celebrate selected holidays throughout the year. Applications are available on SolivitaHOA.com (under Veterans Club), on veteransclubofsolivita.com, or you may pick up a copy at the Concierge Desk. Applications, along with your $25 check (made out to VCS), can be mailed to Veterans Club of Solivita, P.O. Box 581770, Poinciana, FL 34758. For more information, contact flagsoversolivita@ gmail.com or 863-512-3655. REFLECTIONS | OCTOBER 2021
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. More Info: 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? SolivitaHOA.com: solivitacommunications@evergreenLM.com; Reflections: reflections@evergreen-LM.com; Channel 732: communitychannel@evergreen-LM.com 3
Department Articles
Looking Good at 21 Solivita! BY JANA MALIK DIRECTOR OF ACTIVITIES As Sheri, the Solivita Club Manager, mentioned in her August 2021 article, she recently celebrated working 20 years at Solivita. It is truly amazing in any field to work that long at the same place and still love what you do. I am following in her footsteps having worked 17 years at Solivita and continue to love what I do. I have seen so many changes at Solivita from residents and co-workers coming and going to the many improvements made to the Club facilities (see the many changes from this picture taken in 2000).
Chance for Clubs to Receive Proceeds from Holiday Charity Show
A limit of (4) four registered Solivita clubs will receive proceeds from the December 6, 2021 Holiday Show to donate to the club’s charity of choice. If your club is interested, applications are available on SolivitaHOA.com under the Lifestyles tab, then select Lifestyles and Fitness Forms or stop by the Activities office. Applications must be received by October 22nd. A lottery will then be held from the applications received to randomly select the winners. The show is an acapella group called “Right On Key” singing all the best holiday songs. Tickets to attend and support these clubs’ charities will be available starting on Monday, November 1st.
Freedom Park, Village Center, Restaurant and Building Closings » Saturday, October 2nd - Community Yard Sale
I get personal satisfaction realizing how the Activities program has grown, evolved, and become more technological. Our online presence is felt with the implementation of viewable Room Calendars, online ticket sales and an online merchandise store. One thing Sheri and I both say is that there is never a dull day at Solivita. There is always something fun and exciting being worked on. Keep looking beautiful and active for another 21 years Solivita!
Solivita Volunteers, Log Sheet Are Due
Turn in your Solivita Volunteer Log Sheet to the Activities office by Monday, October 11th. Hours from March 1st through October 10, 2021 are being accepted. Thank you to all the Solivita volunteers; we cannot do what we do without your help! 4
Freedom Park Recreation events are CANCELLED until 12pm. » Saturday, October 9th - Solivita’s Roaring 21st Birthday Party Restaurants and Buildings Closing at 3pm: The Bistro, Mosaics, The Grille, The Palms and all locations in the Village Center including the Waterfront Galleries, Mediterranean Skyline Rooms and the Riviera Spa and Fitness Center. Village Center street (downtown area) will close from 3pm-midnight. Golf Cart Parking will be closed all day along the Village Center for event setup. Happy Roaring 21st Birthday Solivita, let’s Keep The Party Going!!! Jana Malik 863-427-7125 jmalik@evergreen-LM.com
REFLECTIONS | OCTOBER 2021
Trivia
Karaoke
SPECIAL NIGHTS
SPECIAL NIGHTS
SELECT MONDAYS » 4PM & 7PM $5 BEVERAGE TICKET ADMISSION
SELECT TUESDAYS » 6PM-9PM COMPLIMENTARY ENTRANCE » CASH BAR
Thursday Night Movies 7PM ON CH. 732 AND OCTOBER 14TH IN BALLROOM MOVIE LISTING IS ON THE BACK OF THE CALENDAR INSERT
EVERY WEDNESDAY 11AM-1PM FARMER’S MARKET LOCATION IN FREEDOM PARK TO GO ONLY
8AM-11AM
Solivita’s Roaring 21st Birthday Party
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 2ND FREEDOM PARK PARKING LOT $5 VENDOR SPACE, ONE PER HOUSEHOLD
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 9TH VILLAGE CENTER » 6PM-10PM TICKET PACKAGES ARE $10 & UP COMMEMORATIVE MERCHANDISE AVAILABLE
Community
Yard Sale
Halloween House of Frights
Decorating Contest
Halloween Cabaret Show
REGISTER BY OCTOBER 17TH; VOTE OCTOBER 27TH-31ST THREE WINNERS WIN WITCH’S BREW BASKET!
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23RD TWO SHOWS: 5PM & 8PM BALLROOM » $25 EOSS; $20 GENERAL ADMISSION
MONDAY, OCTOBER 25TH 4PM-7:30PM » VETERAN’S MEMORIAL IN FREEDOM PARK DJ » CASH BAR SEATING IS PROVIDED
READ MORE INFORMATION AND WHO IS PERMITTED TO ATTEND THESE EVENTS ON THE BACK OF THE MONTHLY NEWSLETTER CALENDAR OR GO TO SOLIVITAHOA.COM HOME PAGE AND CLICK ON THE RSVP OR PURCHASE TICKETED EVENTS BANNER. IT WILL GO TO THE ACTIVITIES EVENTS AND SOLIVITA UNIVERSITY CLASSES CALENDAR. THERE YOU GO TO THE DATE OF THE EVENT OR CLASS. FOR QUESTIONS, EMAIL OR CALL ACTIVITIES DEPARTMENT AT SOLIVITAACTIVITIES@EVERGREEN-LM.COM OR 863-427-7125.
REFLECTIONS | OCTOBER 2021
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Department Articles
From the World of Fitness & Wellness BY JAMAR EDGE DIRECTOR OF FITNESS & WELLNESS
Annual Health Fair
Please don’t forget to mark your calendars for this year’s Annual Health Fair, scheduled for Wednesday, October 20th. We look to up the ante and bring in more vendors and offer a variety of products and services for our homeowners. We have reached out to over 150 local health-related organizations to join us for the event. Remember, this will be a Halloween themed event, so feel free to wear your most creative or very scariest costume and join the fun!
Annual Health Fair Halloween Themed Wednesday, October 20th 9am-12pm in RSF
Thank You!!!
It brings me great sadness to put this into words. However, I want to take this opportunity to recognize two pillars of Fitness at Solivita. I want to recognize two of our long-standing homeowners for the dedication in keeping the homeowners of this beautiful community, healthy and motivated. Here is a THANK YOU to Mr. Mac McCarty and Mrs. Denise Bopp. Mac has decided to retire after nearly two decades of teaching Tai Chi here in Solivita.
Mac McCarty
After more than 17 years of providing dedicated Tai Chi instruction to our Solivita residents, Mac has decided to retire. He will be greatly missed by his students, as there is no way to replace him. Only a few of us know that Mac started off as a volunteer instructor who taught at 7am and never missed a beat. His popularity continued and he became the official Tai Chi Instructor for the Solivita Club. Mac originates from West Virginia and studied Tai Chi for years. It is rumored that he was seen carrying a wooden sword while walking to class!
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Mac has visited and studied in China and practices what he preaches. He can even be seen meditating in the quiet corners of the community. If you look closely, you will see him posted on signage around the community. A true celebrity of Solivita! For those who know Mac, he has a very good sense of humor and there has never been an interaction in which he did not make me laugh. Students of Mac speak about how he allows others with knowledge of Tai Chi shine and standout. The two words I hear the most are: inclusive and knowledgeable. Mac is also a fitness lover and has done Personal Training in the past. He is known to greet the class and Tai Chi club by asking, “Are there any announcements? Ok, now who brought the cookies?” Sounds a lot like Mac!
Denise Bopp
Our dear Denise will be relocating, thus ending her 18 years of instructing and singing our homeowners into better health. Denise is beloved by all and will surely be missed. I will certainly miss her bubbly personality and humble spirit. Denise started her career as an instructor back in November of 1989 in Rochester, NY. This November will mark 32 years in the industry as a fitness instructor! That is quite the milestone. Something scarcely known about Denise, is she used to help with our court maintenance program. She would get up in the early morning hours to assist Keith with preparing our recreation courts for play. Talk about dedication! Her fitness philosophy is that it has to be fun. “Remember that it is for the rest of your life, so find ways to make it enjoyable. Bring music to listen to that you love, get a workout partner so you can motivate each other, or best of all, take a fitness class.” Jamar Edge 863-496-3522 jedge@evergreen-LM.com
REFLECTIONS | OCTOBER 2021
Department Articles
Hosted by the Fall Arts & Crafts Festival Committee and Solivita Activities
Saturday, November 6th 10am-4pm Village Center Rain or Shine
Fund Drive to Benefit Local Food Pantry
Strollin g Enter ta inment: F r e nc h A r ti s t S tilt Walker a nd a O ne Ma n B a nd
Jazz Music, Bobby Tate on Guitar, Steel Drums & the Hayworth Duo Band
l Festiva ry te Food EeaBistro in th t dab ou Rou n
The Village Center will be closed to vehicle traffic from 7am-5pm, except to festival vendors. REFLECTIONS | OCTOBER 2021
Wine, Beer & Art
Garden
130+ Arts and Crafts Booths
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC FREE ADMISSION PETS & SMOKING NOT PERMITTED IN FESTIVAL AREAS
Complimentary
in the Welcome Center Courtyard
Photo Booth
with Fall, Art & Craft Props
Free Kidz Zone Kids Crafts, Balloon Animals, Popcorn, DJ Silly Nilly, Big Drawing Board, Giant Jenga, Fall Leaf Pile
20th An niversary Com memorat ive T-Shir t Sales
Photos by Linda Domchik, Ida Cobb, Irene Stecher & Joe Thomas 7
SOLIVITA'S ROARING SATURDAY, OCTOBER 9TH,
TICKET PACKAGES Tickets are on sale UNTIL OCTOBER 1ST by going to SolivitaHOA.com Home Page. Each person selects their desired ticket package. Adult guests welcome. Don’t delay! All tickets include General Admission, Dessert Shooter, Champagne Toast, a Solivita Birthday Lanyard, Tax and Gratuity. 1. General Admission: $10 2. Drink Package: $25
Four pre-paid drinks from a selection of: beer, wine, soda, bottled water or specialty birthday drink.
3. Food Plate Package: $36
Three food plates of your choice from the selection listed below.
4. Drink & Food Plate Package $48
Four pre-paid drinks from a selection of beer, wine, soda, bottled water or specialty birthday drink. Three food plates of your choice from the selection listed below.
FOOD PLATE SELECTIONS (If You Purchase Ticket Package #3 or #4) Request for plate without meat can be made at any food station. (GF = Gluten Free) » Grilled Dijon Mustard Chicken and Zucchini
CASH BARS Several CASH ONLY bars are available throughout the event. If you purchase Ticket Package #2 or #4, go to any bar and present your lanyard card.
Skewers with Polenta - GF
» Bourbon Steak Tips with Roasted Garlic
Mashed Potatoes and Carrots - GF
» Citrus Herb Shrimp Skewers with Bowtie
Red Pepper Pasta » Roasted Vegetable & Risotto Stuffed Mushrooms 8
DESSERT SHOOTER Each ticket holder will select one dessert shooter of their choice from Chef’s assorted selection.
CHAMPAGNE & FIREWORKS
21ST BIRTHDAY PARTY 6PM-10PM (RAIN OR SHINE)
At 9pm, pick-up your champagne flute at the (3) locations as seen on the map. Servers will be outside on the street pouring champagne. At 9:30pm outside on the street, we will sing Happy 21st Birthday to Solivita and then the fireworks show can be viewed from the Village Center bridge from Mosaics to the Riviera Spa & Fitness Center pergola.
MUSIC THROUGHOUT » Ballroom - Z Street Roaring 20’s Band » Mosaics - Bobby Tate » Welcome Center Courtyard - Solivita
Swing Band from 6:30pm-8:30pm
» Riviera Spa & Fitness Center Lobby - Piano
Man Song Requests
» The Grille at Stonegate Restaurant - DJ John » Pro Shop Roundabout Stage and on speakers
down the Village Center - DJ Penny
STROLLING & PERFORMING ENTERTAINMENT The following performers will be strolling throughout the event areas: » » » » »
PHOTO BOOTH Grab a prop or a quote and get your group picture taken at the Magic Mirror Photo Booths. Limited pictures per group are printed but they can be texted to a smartphone.
BIRTHDAY PARTY MERCHANDISE Preserve your memories by ordering event merchandise (polos, wine tumbler, pub style glass, ornament). Go to SolivitaHOA.com Home Page or purchase merchandise on the day of the event in the Art Gallery. Depending on stock, some items may be immediately available and others may take a few weeks.
Fire Breather Charlie Chaplin Impersonator Flapper Dancers Roaring 20’s Stilt Walker Roaring 20’s Lady entertainer in a large Champagne Glass
BUILDING & ROAD CLOSURES Restaurants and Buildings Closing at 3pm: The Bistro, Mosaics, The Grille, The Palms and all locations in the Village Center including the Waterfront Galleries, Mediterranean Skyline Rooms and the Riviera Spa and Fitness Center. Village Center street (downtown area) will close from 3pm-midnight. Golf Cart Parking will be closed all day along the Village Center for event setup. 9
BIRTHDAY PARTY MERCHANDISE
Department Articles
Preserve your Solivita’s Roaring 21st Birthday memories by ordering the event merchandise. Go to the SolivitaHOA.com Home Page or purchase merchandise on the day of the event in the Art Gallery. Depending on inventory, some items may be immediately available, and others may take a few weeks.
SOLIVITA’S ROARING 21ST BIRTHDAY PARTY LADIES POLO
SOLIVITA’S ROARING 21ST BIRTHDAY PARTY MEN’S POLO
Polos come in Black and White Metallic Gold Event Logo Micropique Gripper Polo Moisture-Wicking & Snag Resistant 100% Polyester Tricot
Polos come in Black and White Metallic Gold Event Logo Micropique Gripper Polo Moisture-Wicking & Snag Resistant 100% Polyester Tricot
$35
ROARING 20'S STEMLESS WINE TUMBLER WITH LID Metallic Gold Event Logo 12 oz Double Wall Insulation Stainless Steel Exterior Plastic Lining with Plastic Lid
$10
$35
FLAPPER ACRYLIC ORNAMENT USA-Made Clear Rimmed Acrylic Ornament in the Shape of a Ball Ornament Dimensions: 3.25” wide x 4” height White Background Metallic Gold Logo Perfect for a Souvenir or Holiday Gift, Includes a Silver Hanging Cord
$6
PROHIBITION PUB GLASS 16 oz Pub Style Glass with Rounded & Curved Design Black Event Logo Perfect for Beer, Soda, Water or Any Other Liquid Refreshment
$7
SOLIVITA ONLINE STORE Scan this QR Reader or go to the SolivitaHOA.com Home Page and click on the birthday party logo. It will take you to our Solivita Online Merchandise Pre-Order Store.
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The Activities Office located above the Bistro Café M-F, 9am-5pm is available for merchandise purchasing assistance or call 863-427-7125. REFLECTIONS | OCTOBER 2021
Department Articles
One Scary October Night!
BY SHELLEY DESTEFANO COMMUNITY CONCIERGE We’ve all had to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night, but sometimes it’s scary all alone in the dark especially during a storm. That urge makes you leave the comfort of your covers and walk across the room. It’s pouring outside; you hear the thunder and see lighting striking and all of a sudden you get that feeling that makes the hair on the back of your neck stand. Your heart is racing with fear as you struggle to get to the light switch. Finally you manage to flip it on, then you jump in fear by the sight. Yes, it’s your morning face and you have to live with that fear too. Sometimes having to use the bathroom in the middle of the night is a rough job meant for really tough people. Luckily the special days and things going on in the area this month is meant for everyone, so please enjoy.
Fun Ways to Celebrate Halloween
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
It seems like we all know someone who has come across this horrible disease. We must acknowledge the importance of the fight to eliminate cancer.
Beginning Thursday, October 7th, become immersed in Van Gogh’s artwork - from sunny landscapes and night scenes to portraits and still life paintings. Visit orlandovangogh.com for tickets and information.
Columbus Day
Oktoberfest Celebrations
In 2021, Columbus Day falls on Monday, October 11th. It’s a public holiday in many parts of the U.S. that commemorates the voyage of Christopher Columbus to the Americas in 1492.
» Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights for adults and older teenagers at orlando.halloweenhorrornights.com. » Old Town’s Mortem Manor Haunted House is open Wednesday-Sunday at 6pm (mortemmanor.com) with a $15 entrance fee. They also have a buried alive simulator for $5, or a combination of both for $18 per person. » SeaWorld’s first-ever HOWL-O-SCREAM at seaworld. com/orlando/events/howl-o-scream. » Enjoy the outdoors at Harvest Holler exploring a pumpkin patch and corn maze (harvestholler.com). » Maybe you’d like to roll UP a hill instead of down in your vehicle at Spook Hill in Lake Wales (spookhill.info).
Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit Orlando
Most of you don’t have a boss anymore, but if you do, take the time to show them a little appreciation for everything they do.
How about Oktoberfest on the 15th at 6pm (located at 263 W. Central Avenue in Winter Haven)? Sample as many beers as you like with the beer tasting ticket for $25, or just enjoy craft vendors, live music and food at this admission-free event. Visit mainstreetwh.com/events. Celebration Town Center will also celebrate Oktoberfest on October 22nd and 23rd. Visit celebrationtowncenter.com for more information.
Halloween
Pioneer Days Festival
National Boss Day on October 16th
You might see an abundance of unusual creatures in costumes with ravenous appetites for anything sweet on Sunday, October 31st. These rabid beasts may be foaming cotton candy out of their mouths, staring at you for treats. We call them trickor-treaters ... you may have a few cute fairies or princesses to brighten the dark scary night on Halloween!
The festival will take place on October 23rd and 24th at 33 N. Lakeshore Blvd. in Lake Wales. There are no entrance or parking fees for this outdoor event; however, masks are required. Enjoy live entertainment, food concessions, vendors, historical demonstrations, old fashioned games, a beer and wine garden, and a pumpkin patch. Visit cityoflakewales.com. Life can be pretty scary at times, especially those midnight bathroom hikes. Overcome your fears in life with pumpkin smashing colors and then replace them with pumpkin and spice because life is so nice! Community Concierge 863-427-7100 sdestefano@evergreen-LM.com
REFLECTIONS | OCTOBER 2021
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Department Articles
ARC Applications
BY TINISHA RAMOS COMPLIANCE COORDINATOR (ARCHITECTURAL) 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. 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
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 and third Monday of every month (except for reserved holidays). 12
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. 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. 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.”
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 rhanooman@evergreen-LM. com and she will be able to assist with your log in.
Steps to Submit ARC Online
• Log in to your SolivitaHOA.com account. • Click on the “HOA” icon located on the top right side of the website. Continued on page 13
REFLECTIONS | OCTOBER 2021
Department Articles Tinisha’s article continued from page 12
• Scroll down and click on the “Compliance” icon. • Scroll down the page until you see the fillable Application for Architectural Review Committee (screenshot pictured to the right). Proceed to fill out the online form, digitally sign by clicking the left mouse button, attach required picture and click the “Submit” button when completed. Once we receive the online Architectural Review Application you will receive a confirmation via an email that you cannot reply to (Do Not Reply email). If you have any questions, please email us at Compliance@SolivitaHOA.com or call us at 863-427-7022. Tinisha Ramos 863-427-7022 tramos@evergreen-LM.com
The Community Garden Turns Five
BY DAVE DAUBERT SOLIVITA RESIDENT & COMMUNITY GARDEN TRUSTEE Time flies when you are having fun gardening in Solivita! Our Community Garden in Freedom Park is the home of 30 plots where avid vegetable and herb gardeners from Solivita plant and harvest a wide variety of edible produce.
refunded at the end of the season if the plot is clean and ready to use for the next gardener. A large bag of good topsoil or compost is provided to every plot to amend the soil each season. The key to a successful harvest is planting the right plant at the right time. There are suggested fall/winter vegetables that grow better during the cooler months and those plants that do well in the warm months. The Trustee of the garden has lists of seasonal vegetables posted on the bulletin board outside of the gate to the garden. Fresh water is used to irrigate the garden and it is the individual gardener’s responsibility to keep their plants watered. Gardeners are asked to not use any pesticides.
Left to right: Cheryl Mill, Leroy Partin, Pat & Mark Diamond, Beth Van Huss, and Dave Daubert
Opened in 2016, the garden has two growing seasons per year where residents may apply for a plot. When there are more than 30 applicants, a lottery system is used to fairly choose who receives a plot. No one owns a plot no matter how much work and sweat they put into it. The cost is $50, half of which is REFLECTIONS | OCTOBER 2021
Over the few short years, gardeners have learned what plants grow well in our unique micro-climate in Solivita. A buddy system among the gardeners is encouraged to allow that someone is always there to help keep the gardens maintained when folks are away. Gardening is a great social distancing activity that is good for the soul and mind, particularly when you take your harvest home and enjoy it or share it with others. For more information, please contact Solivita Activities at SolivitaActivities@Evergreen-LM. com or call 863-427-7125. 13
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 unless otherwise noted. Solivita University class calendar and faculty biographies can be found on SolivitaHOA.com under Get Connected. Adult guests welcome. October 2021 classes are open for registration. Pre-register and pay your tuition fee in advance (not at the door). Go to SolivitaHOA.com Home Page and click on the RSVP or Purchase Ticketed Events banner which leads to the Activities Events and Solivita University Calendar. There, you select the class date to register and pay. For more information stop in, call the Activities Office at 863-427-7125 or email SolivitaActivities@Evergreen-LM.com.
Great Decision (GD) Discussions
Each year the Foreign Policy Association produces a study guide with eight of the most critical global issues facing America. Great Decision discussions are moderated in person by Thomas Gallagher Ph.D and virtually by Mary Ellen Roberts and Len Trushkosky. 2021 Great Decision Discussions COMPLIMENTARY ENTRANCE, study material not provided for October Discussion: Roles of International Organizations in a Global Pandemic • Tuesday, October 5th at 11am over Zoom • Wednesday, October 6th at 4pm in The Palms
adults use the most, how to make your browsing more private and know if someone is looking at you. Learn what to do if you get a virus and it says “do not shut down call this number.”
A History of Americana Through Film Thursdays, October 14th, 21st and 28th Gator Room at 1pm Tuition: $20 per student Professor: Richard Goldsmith, Ph.D
2022 Great Decision Discussions Annual Pass and Book PRE-ORDER DISCOUNT The 2022 GD Annual Pass cost will be $38 (or $43 for two sharing a book) in the month of October ONLY. Go to the SolivitaHOA.com Home Page, click on the RSVP or Purchase Ticket banner, go to the October 1st date in the calendar to purchase this pass.
Intro to Internet Browsers
Wednesday, October 13th Gator Room at 4pm Tuition: $7 per student Instructor: Bill Chilton Class Information: Learn how to download different browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Bing and Others), the different features each one offers, how to search, how to bookmark and manage your bookmarks, how to find programs and websites that kids and 14
Course Description: This course shows our Changing Society reflected in film. The marriage between movies and culture involves a complicated dynamic. Movies influence the culture they reflect. Film is an integral part of that culture ... reflecting the concerns, attitudes, and beliefs of that time. Conversely, Continued on page 15
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Solivita University film stars changed the way people viewed themselves and society. The flappers of the 1920’s, the depression years, the war years ... always changing, never standing still. Movies could be characterized as America’s storytellers. Not only do Hollywood films reflect certain commonly held attitudes and beliefs about what it means to be American, but they also portray contemporary trends, issues, and events, serving as records of the eras in which they were produced.
Fiestas in the Americas: Cuba, Colombia and Mexico
Fridays, October 15th, 22nd and 29th Gator Room at 10:30am Tuition: $20 per student Professor: Dr. Cecilia Rodríguez Milanés Course Description: It is no coincidence that each of these countries has its own version of carnival and we will survey some of their most famous fiestas. Participants will be treated to a lively, interactive presentation examining popular music, costumes, dances and folk art of Cuba, Colombia, and Mexico’s carnivals and fiestas. From Cuba’s comparsas (street parades), and Medellin’s (Colombia) Fiesta de Flores (flowers), to Mexico’s Day of the Dead traditions—sugar skulls, calavera art and ofrendas.
Course Description: Learn the two verbs “To & Be = Ser & Estar” and the rules which govern the use of each through dialogue. These verbs and the interrogatives will also be learned. Assorted vocabulary lists will be provided. Students will be able to request phrases to use for a working vocabulary that will help when speaking to Spanish speakers.
Art Lecture: American Art A-Z: Warhol, Schapiro and Zakanitch
Tuesday, October 19th Ballroom at 1pm Tuition: $5 per student Lecturer: Jan Clanton Course Description: Not everyone loved Pollock and his splatter-drip style of painting (Abstract Expressionism). Artists at mid-century wanted art to comment on ‘real’ life, and so they returned to painting an image in art. Brillo soap boxes, tufted endangered birds, copies of Mona Lisa all could be found in current work. What did it mean? Women artists, at the same time, were demanding equal representation in museums and exhibitions. What was feminist art? The fine arts became a true reflection of political issues in America.
Beginners Conversational Spanish Course
Mondays, October 18th, 25th, November 1st and 8th and Tuesdays, October 19th, 26th, November 2nd and 9th Mosaics at 1pm Tuition: $40 per student Instructor: Carmen Boos
Andy Warhol’s Mao Tse-Tung Paintings Editorial Credit: Radu Bercan / Shutterstock.com
FRIENDS WHO HAVE LEFT US, BUT ARE NOT FORGOTTEN Suzanne Conte Ruzich “Russell” Flowers Jerry Robbins
Conte
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Flowers
Robbins
Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the residents who recently passed away. 15
Department Articles
The R2R Resource Center is Here for You! Workshop: Challenges of Dementia or Alzheimer’s and Keeping Safe Thursday, October 28th • 10am • Ballroom This workshop will focus on challenges you may face when dealing with a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s. Our presenters will share tools that are helpful in your day-to-day life, and also review several key points about keeping your home safe; including talking about gun safety. Our guest speakers are Captain Larry Davis of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office (pictured aboveleft) and Kirk Fasshauer, Director of Crisis Services at Peace River Center (pictured left). COVID-19 guidelines will be practiced at the workshop. All R2R Workshops are free to residents, but advance registration is requested. Call 863-236-9973 or email SolivitaR2R@gmail.com to reserve your spot (limited capacity).
Meet More of Our Volunteers Renate Skor
After surviving the harsh Minnesota winters for more than 20 years; on the spur of the moment she and her husband Ed visited
Solivita, bought a lot and built a house three years ago. Renate, originally from Germany, works part-time translating German medical documents to English, while still enjoying the many amenities Solivita has to offer. She enjoys such activities as: exercising, dance classes, Mahjong, Pickleball, gardening, and cards, just to name a few. She has been a great asset to the Resource Center, connecting with people and helping others by serving on the Advisory Committee and operating the AV equipment at many of our workshops.
Burt Thomas
“No more snow, I’ve had enough,” Burt said on a cold February morning; so, taking a leap of faith, he left Maine after living there his entire life with his wife Jane. Burt loved Solivita at first sight, it just felt right. Burt was in a high-pressure sales job for most of his career; leaving the stress behind a year ago when he retired. Finding himself with time on his hands, he decided to take his love of driving and start a part-time job, providing transportation for Solivita residents (i.e., airport drop off and pickup, appointments, rental drop off, etc). Burt handles the AV equipment at the workshops with Renate and is involved with special projects such as: the COVID-19 vaccination effort. Burt plays softball, pickleball, cards, golfs, bikes, and hangs out with his friends. R2R Resource Center 863-236-9973 SolivitaR2R@gmail.com
SPEED ENFORCEMENT The HOA, Security, and 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. Check out what the stats were in previous months airing on Ch. 732. Receiving a speeding ticket is not only financially costly, but can lead to much more serious results. 16
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Department Articles
November 11th-13th
Salute Our Veterans Weekend is designed to celebrate Veterans and their families. We raise money for a select charity to help improve the lives of the many selfless men and women who bravely served our Nation. This year, all proceeds benefit:
Veterans Day Memorial Service & Breakfast Thursday, November 11th
Veterans Day will begin with a wonderful ceremony presented by the Veterans Club of Solivita at 9am at the Veterans Memorial in Freedom Park. After the ceremony, join us for a delicious breakfast in the Ballroom and Mosaics. The breakfast buffet menu includes: fluffy scrambled eggs; bacon; country style potatoes; biscuits and self-serve coffee, orange juice, apple juice and water. $10 per person. Guest of all ages welcome. Tickets available online at SolivitaHOA.com beginning at 9am, October 1st. A limited number of tickets will also be sold by the Veterans Club.
The Boss Project Show Friday, November 12th
This Bruce Springsteen tribute band is a fantastic, unstoppable, powerhouse, ball of energy that will bring you to your feet singing, dancing and enjoying every second of it! The 7 group band of guys will transport you back in time playing some of Bruce’s greatest hits: Born in the USA, Thunder Road, Born to Run, Glory Days, My Hometown, and many more. If you are ready to get electrified then you don’t want to miss this show. Ballroom doors open 30 minutes before the show for Early Open Show Seating (EOSS) and General Admission doors open 25 minutes before the show. Show starts at 7:30pm. General Admission: $20 per person. EOSS: $25 per person. Tickets available online at SolivitaHOA.com beginning at 9am, October 1st.
Golf Tournament Scramble at Stonegate Golf Club Saturday, November 13th Shotgun Start at 8:30am · Registration: 7am-8am $50 per person OR $200 for a foursome Residents and Non-Residents Welcome Golf Entry Includes: Continental Breakfast, Green & Cart Fee Waived, Range Balls Before Play, On Course Special Events, Raffles, Goody Bags and Prizes (4 Closest to the Pin, Hole in One Challenge, 1st, 2nd and 3rd Place) Lunch and Awards to Follow. Register online at SolivitaHOA.com or visit the Activities office located above the Bistro Café. Registration Deadline is November 1st. *Refunds will not be accepted or given for any of the events.*
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Using a Generator Safely
BY THE SOLIVITA COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM (CERT) » Use recommended (10 gauge) extension cords that are long enough or install a transfer switch to safely connect into your home’s wiring. » Have a carbon monoxide detector (newer homes likely have one or two) » Store the gasoline safely in a ventilated space. 1. Use a gas stabilizer 2. Test your generator periodically with a small amount of gas and run it dry » Do NOT refuel it while hot (wait until it cools). 1. Many injuries occur due to gasoline flare-ups 2. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby One real possibility during a hurricane is the loss of power. Many Solivita residents plan to operate a generator in the event of a power outage. Below are tips for safely operating a generator. » Do NOT operate your generator indoors (CO and fire hazard), in the garage, on the patio or even the under eaves, and NOT near a window. » Do choose a spot at least 20 feet from the house. 1. Choose a spot while it’s not windy and raining 2. Consider the noise impact on your neighbors
» Do NOT overload with too many appliances/devices. Add up the power rating (wattage) of devices to be powered before you buy. » Share your power source with others nearby, who may depend on life-supporting equipment or refrigeration of medications, by letting your Neighborhood Captain know you will be running a generator. » READ THE MANUAL!!!
Feeling Like Fall!
BY BRAD THOMPSON BRANCH MANAGER, FLORALAWN Hooray! It’s cooling down and has stopped raining so much! Floralawn admin teams and landscaping crews alike are always happy to have summer’s heat taper off and give way to more comfortable temperatures.
Mowing Schedule Change
As we head into October, turf growth is slowing down. On November 1st, we’ll move into our bi-weekly mowing schedule. So, that means look for your mowing crews every two weeks instead of weekly.
Seasonal Chores
Just because the grass is growing more slowly doesn’t mean we’ll be taking it easy. This is the time of the year when we focus on fall-specific landscaping chores as well as other tasks that need doing. This includes the fourth round of granular fertilizer and herbicide applications. We are also starting native grass pruning in Solivita. Fakahatchee is the grass that grows in large mounds in the center median on Solivita Boulevard and in the common areas. At this time of year, Continued on page 19
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Department Articles Floralawn article continued from page 18
we cut those mounds back. If you have Fakahatchee grass on your property, our crews will be pruning those clumps back also. You may notice more frequent running of the irrigation system throughout Solivita now. Predictable summer rains are completely past so now we depend on sprinklers to deliver the water that the turf and plants need.
Watching for Brown Patch
Summer turf diseases have tapered off and now we look for turf issues that arrive with cooler weather. The biggest challenge is brown patch fungus disease. Brown patch fungus tends to affect turf that stays moist for prolonged periods of time. The prolonged moisture comes with cool nights, overcast days, and mornings with late, heavy fog.
Brown patch affects St. Augustine grass (which grows throughout Solivita) as well as Bermuda, Bahia, Centipede, and other turf grasses. We work hard to prevent it with applications of fungicides and controlled irrigation.
The fungal disease attacks the base of the grass leaf. The tissue looks soft and rotted; blades can be pulled out easily. Brown patch disease first shows up as yellowing of the grass which then turns to brown and spreads in large circles.
Questions? Comments? Stop by our help desk in the Admin building or give us a call at 863-225-9569. You can also bring your questions to my next Coffee Talk, scheduled for October 29th at 9am in Mosaics. Have a great month!
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Coffee Talk
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2021 Golf Cart Rally Winners Seventy-one (71) golf carts participated in the beloved annual Golf Cart Rally in the community on Saturday, August 14th! They had to look for clues, do many tasks (decorate a bridge, walk through a yard sign maze, dance at our impromptu Driveway Concert, and more), and collect several items in the best time they could. If any team wants to see how well they did, we save all the answer sheets in the Activities Office. The winners are ….
Rally 1 Winners
Rally 2 Winners
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1 1st Place
1st Place
Team Street Walkers Robin Downey, Nancy Picarello, Nancy Baron and Diane Smith
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3
2
3
2nd Place
3rd Place
2nd Place
3rd Place
Team JetMobl Bob & Deb Kelchner and Loretta Widdows
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Team The Wine Nots Bob & Bev Otte and Jim & Janice Brooks
Team Who Done It (Right!) Anthony & Katherine Russo and Gladys & Carl Cone
Team 3 Fast and 1 Furious Peggy Biwer, Lisa Waller, Suzy Szramek and Denean Hellebuyck
Team Catch of the Day Terry & Kathy Guay and Mike and Sharon Vaughn
2021 RECURRING CLUB CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS
CLUB COMMUNITY EVENT ARTICLES
Solivita Clubs with recurring weekly/monthly meetings need to submit their meeting information in order to be included in the Reflections Calendar Insert for each calendar year. You may start sending your submissions for 2022. Please include the club name, day and date of meeting, time, and location. Double check your meeting dates and be sure to note any cancellations due to holidays, etc. If you list a meeting on a holiday, it will be included on the calendar. Groups that made an annual submission for 2021 are NOT automatically carried over into the new year. To ensure your club meeting makes it to the January 2022 calendar, please send submissions to reflections@evergreen-LM.com by Wednesday, December 1st.
Due to space limitations, there is a word count limit of 200 words for all Community Event articles, on a space permitting basis. As a reminder, events advertised in this section must be OPEN to the entire Solivita community and can be advertised for only two months - the month before and the month the event takes place, unless otherwise requested. Please submit articles to reflections@evergreen-LM.com. REFLECTIONS | OCTOBER 2021
Department Articles
Yard of the Month Our Yard of the Month non-resident judges went on a secret hunt in Venezia for our latest winner. They checked all the front yards of the more than 500 homes there. This month’s Yard of the Month belongs to Sheila Sharfarz at 169 Grand Canal Drive. Sheila always has a beautiful yard that she is very proud of. It is a pleasure to drive the community and see so many residents going above and beyond to make their yards even more attractive. Who will be our next winner?
COMMUNITY EVENTS ALL ABOUT ORCHIDS Tuesday, October 19th • 10:30am-12:30pm • Ballroom Sponsored by Green Thumbs Club. Join us for “All about Orchids” presented by Arthur Katz. The cost for members is $7 and the cost for non-members is $10. There will be door prizes and light refreshments. Reservations are required! Call Retha Katz Sellers at 863-427-3317. Send or drop off payment to Marianne Whitmer at 340 Hamrick Drive.
Orchids will be for sale by Ritter Tropic 1 Orchids Nurseries.
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DINNER & DANCE Thursday, October 28th • 5pm-9pm Sponsored by the Gun Club of Solivita. Our Guest of Honor is Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd. Entertainment is by our own Mr. Breezz from Solivita! This event is being held at the very beautiful and picturesque Future Farmers of America Leadership Training Center in Haines City only 20 minutes down the road right on Lake Pierce. Lots of fun prizes, live auctions, and raffles. A menu fit to behold! Complete with buffalo strip loin (similar to filet mignon) with blackberry gastrique, authentic jambalaya (not spicy) or chicken breast, and Chef Robert’s best panna cotta for dessert. Best of all, it’s BYOB. So come, join the fun. You need not be a member of the club; this is open to all in Solivita. The cost is $50 per person, which includes tax and gratuity. For tickets or questions, contact Gary Seiffer at 203452-1849 or gseiffer@gmail.com; Janet Warnsdorfer at 863496-7827 or galaxypwd@aol.com; or Jim Kaczkowski at 321604-5998 or jkazman61@aol.com. 21
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