ON THE COVER
REFLECTIONS
It’s Solivita’s favorite time of the year and one that everyone looks forward to all year long, the Solivita Pub Crawl! Six unique themed bars in one blast of a night! Photos by Joe Thomas.
SEPTEMBER 2021 VOLUME 21 ISSUE 9
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: 863-427-7150, ext. 4720 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 Starlite Ballroom Daily 8am-11pm
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) 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
Stonegate Pro Shop: 863-427-7150, ext. 4710 Daily 7am-5pm
Membership: 863-427-7143 or solivitamembership@evergreen-LM.com
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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Mosaics Restaurant: 863-427-7150, ext. 4720 or option #5
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
SEPTEMBER TABLE OF CONTENTS Newsletter Submission & Advertising Info ............................ Page 3 Department Articles .............................................................. Pages 4-19 Solivita University .................................................................. Pages 12-14 Community Events .............................................................. Pages 20-23 Mosaics Special Nights ........................................................... Page 20 Wellness Events ................................................................ Pages 22-23 A Touch of Class ................................................................... Pages 23-26 Club & Support Group Meeting Lists ............................ Pages 27-31 Club News ............................................................................... Pages 32-49 Neighborhood News .................................................................... Page 50 Resident Kudos .............................................................................. Page 50 Advertisements ..................................................................... Pages 51-84 Activities Events (back of calendar) ................ Insert Pages E1-E3
NEWSLETTER SUBMISSIONS Email submissions to reflections@evergreen-LM.com
OCTOBER SUBMISSIONS
Calendar submissions and newsletter articles are due on Wednesday, September 1st. Club insert copies are due by Thursday, September 23rd, 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.
NOVEMBER SUBMISSIONS
Calendar submissions and newsletter articles are due on Friday, October 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
HOLIDAY HOURS MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 6TH: LABOR DAY Administration & Activities: Closed
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. Contact: flagsoversolivita@gmail.com or 863-512-3655. REFLECTIONS | SEPTEMBER 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
Say Cheese Please!
BY JANA MALIK DIRECTOR OF ACTIVITIES We have so many talented Solivita volunteers! As I was writing this article, it occurred to me that we should spotlight a different group of them in future Reflections newsletters. This month, we want to recognize all of the talented event photographers. When I first started working at Solivita, taking photos at events was part of the staff responsibility. Inevitably, as we ran around checking on all areas of the event, taking photos was not high on the priority list, and not our best skill, and we weren’t able to document our events through pictures. Once the volunteer program started, resident photographers began taking tons of pictures at the events, helping us in many ways. For one, pictures that are taken are displayed for residents to view on SolivitaHOA.com under Lifestyles, Photos. Second, it helps Activities with training as we can look back to view event setups, decorations and logistics. Thirdly, the pictures can be used for promo material to “hype an event” that we repeat the following year. And last but not least, we love using the photos on our Reflections newsletter cover. I reminisce the wonderful times and smiling residents faces in the following year while I search through the pictures looking for the perfect ones to use for promo material. Next time you see your fellow neighbors with their cameras out, STOP, POSE AND SMILE!
Thank you for your time, service and for putting yourself behind the camera to capture so many memories at the Activities events for all of eternity to see. » Judie Chiappone » Joe Thomas » Irene Stecher » Linda Dombchik » Gaby Backert » Bill and Amy Labita » Susan Katsoff
Bill Labita
Amy Labita
Susan Katsoff
Did you know that in every month’s Reflections newsletter there is a Photo Release Disclaimer reminder for attending any event? Did you also know that if you want your picture removed from the SolivitaHOA.com website, we can do that for you, just let us know.
Online Ticket Sales Training & SolivitaHOA.com Log on Assistance
If anyone wants to see how easy it is to purchase Activities Events or Solivita University Classes through the new online ticket sales system, join us in the Ballroom on Thursday, September 9th at 3pm. Bring your smartphone, tablet or laptop to join along with us as we purchase tickets for an imaginary event. Judie Chiappone
Joe Thomas
Linda Dombchik
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Irene Stecher
Gaby Backert
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REFLECTIONS | SEPTEMBER 2021
mondays
Tuesdays
Trivia
Karaoke
SPECIAL NIGHTS
SPECIAL NIGHTS
Select Mondays at 4pm & 7pm $5 Beverage Ticket Admission
Select Tuesdays 6pm-9pm » cash bar Complimentary Entrance
Thursdays
Saturday, September 11th
Friday, September 17th
Thursday Night Movies
9/11 Breakfast
Elements: Earth, Wind & Fire Tribute Show
National Day of Service & Remembrance
7pm on ch. 732 and September 2nd in Ballroom movie listing is on the back of the calendar insert
Ballroom » 8:15am » $12
Friday, September 24th
Monday, September 27th
Wednesdays
every Wednesday 11am-1pm Farmer’s Market location in Freedom Park To Go Only
Ballroom » 2 shows: 5pm & 8pm $25 EOSS; $20 General Admission
Solivita Pub Crawl
Village Center » 6pm-10pm » $48 Six Bars » Includes T-Shirt
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 | SEPTEMBER 2021
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Department Articles Jana’s article continued from page 4
If you do not have an account with SolivitaHOA.com, you need to create one before joining us and make sure you are logged on. If you haven’t done so, create one before this date, and use the Confidential Password “Evergreen” OR come as early as 2pm so we can assist creating one with you. If you can’t make it, we will record this training to show on Ch. 732 on Thursday, September 23rd before the Thursday Night Movie, time TBD. Disclaimer, we are event planners, not teachers, therefore training will be informal, and questions may be asked as we go along.
Clubs & Neighborhood Groups (NG) Friendly Reminders
» All club facilities must be scheduled either in person with
»
»
Solivita’s Roaring 21st Birthday Party Ticket sales for packages ranging from $10 and up have begun and we have plenty that we can accommodate, but DON’T DELAY! If you want birthday merchandise by the October 9th event date, orders must be received by 11:59pm on Monday, September 6th. Pre-order sales will include men’s and ladies polo shirts, wine tumblers, beer glasses and an ornament to remember this event for years to come. Orders placed after September 6th will be available after the event. Go to the direct link on the SolivitaHOA.com Home Page. Check out pages 8-10 to see the event map and details.
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. Check out what the stats were in previous months airing on the Solivita Community Channel 732. Receiving a speeding ticket is not only financially costly, but can lead to much more serious results. 6
» »
Solivita Activities or through SolivitaHOA.com, Lifestyles, Forms, the online version of Resident Event Request Form BEFORE you meet with Solivita Catering for your food menu or bar needs. It is MOST helpful to send a room setup diagram of your meeting or special event scheduled only in the Ballroom, Mosaics, Palms or the Freedom Park pavilions TWO WEEKS in advance to solivitaactivities@evergreen-LM.com. Email any outings outside of Solivita where cars will be left in the Freedom Park parking lot along with the club event and main contact information to jmalik@evergreen-LM.com. If you need a bar for your event, don’t forget to email Megan Bell, Solivita Catering, at mbell@hampton.golf. To allow your club event guest list through the Solivita Main Gate, email it along with your club name, event date and location to Lexi, Solivita Security, elettesyj@vitalsecurity.com.
Marketplace Bistro and Mosaics Dining on Friday, September 24th
The Bistro Café will close at 4pm and there will be no Mosaics Dining on this date for the Solivita Pub Crawl event. The Grille at Stonegate will be open during normal operating hours. Smile at the Camera and Keep The Party Going!!! Jana Malik 863-427-7125 jmalik@evergreen-LM.com
A FRIEND WHO HAS LEFT US, BUT IS NOT FORGOTTEN Elmer Dobner Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the resident who recently passed away.
REFLECTIONS | SEPTEMBER 2021
Department Articles
The R2R Resource Center is Here for You! Workshop: Florida Wildlife Corridor Wednesday, September 22nd • 10:30am • Ballroom Co-sponsored by the Solivita Wildlife Advocates. The recent passage of the $400 million Florida Wildlife Corridor Act was historic. The new law addresses land conservation, protecting sensitive lands and all Florida’s wildlife. Jason Lauritsen, the Chief Conservation Officer of Florida Wildlife Corridor Coalition, is an experienced speaker, educator, and writer who has authored numerous papers, publications, and presentations throughout his 20-year career in conservation and natural resources management. Jason will speak about: • The critical importance of the Florida Wildlife Corridor to the state’s future • The impact of the new Florida Wildlife Corridor Act • The mission of the Florida Wildlife Corridor Coalition • How the organization fits into a broader statewide Florida Wildlife Corridor Campaign
Workshop: Florida Plant Life
Thursday, September 23rd • 10am • Ballroom There’s a lot more to Florida horticulture than oranges (in fact, did you know that oranges aren’t even native to the state). This workshop will feature experts from local organizations, including the UCF Arboretum, who will share their knowledge on everything from Florida’s fragile ecosystem, the many varieties of plants, to growing herbs on your lanai. REFLECTIONS | SEPTEMBER 2021
All R2R Workshops are free to Solivita residents, but advance registration is requested. Please call 863-236-9973 or email SolivitaR2R@gmail.com to reserve your spot (limited capacity).
Meet More of Our Volunteers Pam Stewart
Pam is our official photographer; taking candid snap shots at any of our workshops. If you ever see Pam out and about in the community, there is no doubt about who her favorite football team is; let’s just say she loves the Ravens. Pam retired from a job she loved and held for more than 20 years at Relay for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. She and her husband visited Solivita in 2019, fell in love with the community, and two days later put an offer on a house and never looked back.
Anna DiPierro
Anna is one of our new volunteers and we are delighted to have her onboard. She was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, and worked as an Account Manager and Executive Assistant for most of her career. Anna enjoys playing poker, hand and foot, chess, and likes to be involved with the community; which is one of the reasons she joined the R2R team of volunteers.
Children’s Library
The R2R Resource Center has a great selection of DVD’s for young people, including Disney movies and dinosaur features. And, of course, there are shelves of books, ranging from young adult titles to picture books for the youngest child. Just stop by the Resource Center (above the Bistro) any weekday between 9am-3pm, and borrow a DVD or book at no charge to entertain your visitors. R2R Resource Center 863-236-9973 SolivitaR2R@gmail.com
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SOLIVITA'S ROARING SATURDAY, OCTOBER 9TH,
TICKET PACKAGES Tickets are on sale NOW 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. » 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
» Bourbon Steak Tips with Roasted Garlic
Mashed Potatoes and Carrots
» 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
» 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 pre-ordering event merchandise (men’s and women’s polo, wine tumbler, pub style glass and an ornament) by going to the SolivitaHOA.com Home Page. Orders received by 9/6/21 will be available before event. Orders placed after 9/6/21 will be available after event.
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
Department Articles
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REFLECTIONS | SEPTEMBER 2021
Department Articles
Enthusiastic!
BY SHELLEY DESTEFANO COMMUNITY CONCIERGE We all have something that we are enthusiastic about! Just knowing that there is always more to accomplish, learn, see and do, makes me enthusiastic. Relieve yourself of boredom by doing something on the special dates this month or things going on in the area.
Labor Day
National Public Lands Day
September 25th is National Public Lands Day. This is one of the days that you may enter most U.S. National Parks for free. Visit nps.gov for more information. The parks participating in Florida are: Canaveral National Seashore; Castillo de San Marcos National Monument; Dry Tortugas National Park; Everglades National Park; and Gulf Islands National Seashore.
Labor Day (Monday, September 6th) is celebrated at separate times of the year in different countries. Most countries celebrate it on May 1st, but Australia, Canada, Bahamas and a few others vary. We here in the U.S. do so on the first Monday in September. Whatever the date, workers worldwide appreciate that special day set aside for them.
Indigo Indie Night Market
The Indigo Indie Night Market will be going on from 5pm8pm on Friday, September 3rd, located at 226 Broadway in Kissimmee. This is a reoccurring event that takes place on the first Friday of every month. You can enjoy classic and exotic cars driving by, live music, raffles, and food and beverages for sale. Visit kissimmeemainstreet.org for more information about this free event.
National Grandparents Day
National Grandparents Day is Sunday, September 12th. Grandparents do all those little things that are so important and make such a difference to the munchkins. Today we thank you for impacting those little minds that will always carry your love with them!
Osceola Environmental Center
Do you have an hour to spare on the weekend? If so, visit the Osceola Environmental Center, which is only open on Saturday from 10am-5pm and Sunday from 12pm-5pm, located at 4300 S. Poinciana Blvd. in Kissimmee. There is no entrance fee; all they ask is that you sign in, and, if you would like to, you can make a small donation. It is handicap accessible, shaded and they have a taxidermy educational classroom of Florida wildlife with pictures. You can tour the whole place in an hour and if you like it, you can always return. Visit floridahikes.com/reedycreek or call 407-870-8763 for more information. Did you do enough? Never and that’s how it should be. Never stop looking for more things to do and keep enjoying life. Solivita is all about enjoying life and living out your well-deserved retirement dream. Community Concierge 863-427-7100 sdestefano@evergreen-LM.com
REFLECTIONS | SEPTEMBER 2021
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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 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 will go on sale starting on Wednesday, September 1st at 9am. September classes are on sale now. 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.
2021 Great Decisions (GD) Discussions Annual Pass
Each year the Foreign Policy Association produces a study guide with eight of the most critical global issues facing America. Eight months a year we have a Wednesday afternoon session at The Palms and a ZOOM session on a Tuesday morning. Great Decisions discussions are moderated in person by Thomas Gallagher Ph.D and virtually by Mary Ellen Roberts and Len Trushkosky. Complimentary entrance (study material not provided) to either discussion to see what it is all about. September Discussion: The Korean Peninsula • Tuesday, September 14th at 11am over Zoom • Wednesday, September 22nd at 4pm at The Palms
Art Lecture - American Art A-Z: Prendergast, Pollack and Olitski Tuesday, September 7th Ballroom at 1pm Lecturer: Jan Clanton Tuition: $5 per student
RIALTO BRIDGE in Venice, painted by Maurice Brazil Prendergast in 1912. Watercolor and graphite on off-white woven paper.
Course Description: The pioneer modernists of the early 20th century effectively started a revolution! These artists wanted to tap into the viewer’s senses and emotions. After all, Freud and Jung were exploring the hidden terrain of the subconscious, why couldn’t artists? The man who made the greatest impact in this trend was Jackson Pollock, who presented an original vision. Love him or hate him, Jack the Dripper brought the center of the art world to New York City.
Ethical Dilemmas: Is There a Right Way to do the Wrong Thing?
Tuesdays, September 14th, 21st and 28th Gator Room at 1pm Tuition: $20 per student Professors: Susan Kossak, Ph.D. and Susan Gibbs, MA Course Description: Many people want there to be a single right answer to an ethical question or dilemma. They find moral ambiguity hard to live with Susan Kossak, Ph.D. because they genuinely want to do the “right” thing, and even if they can’t work out what that right thing is, they like the idea that “somewhere” there is one right answer. But often there isn’t one right answer – there may be several answers, or just some least worst answers – and the individual must choose between Susan Gibbs, MA them. This course deals with some of Continued on pages 13-14
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REFLECTIONS | SEPTEMBER 2021
Solivita University Solivita University continued from page 12
the issues we have to face today, either with our own personal dilemmas or with societal dilemmas. We explore how we might eliminate some of the confusion based on a set of principles that will help us possibly see clearer conclusions and make “better” choices.
Controversial U.S. Constitutional Law Cases NEW CLASS TIME
Wednesdays, September 22nd, 29th and October 6th Art Gallery at 1pm (NEW TIME) Tuition: $20 per student Professor: Thomas Gallagher, Ph.D Course Description: Cases in U.S. Constitutional Law that have had a significant influence on American life will be discussed. The backgrounds of these cases and the results of these Decisions will be examined. These cases, and many more, will be discussed including: Marbury v. Madison, McCulloch v. Maryland, U.S. v. Nixon, Gideon V. Wainwright, Plessy v. Ferguson, and Regents of California v. Bakke.
Dealing with the Paper Problem
Monday, September 20th The Palms at 10:30am Tuition: $10 per student Professional Organizer: Susan Bowling Course Description: Learn how to manage paper now and prepare for the future. Class topics include, but not limited to: What paper do I need to keep and for how long? How to prevent paper piles? How can my paper management system help my memory and prevent me from forgetting important dates, payments or other actions? How can I have vital documents stored that would survive a natural disaster and leave loved ones access to my estate information? Can I live without a file cabinet?
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 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.”
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REFLECTIONS | SEPTEMBER 2021
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Solivita University Solivita University continued from pages 12-13
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
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, 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 14
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.
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 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.
Andy Warhol’s Mao Tse-Tung Paintings Editorial Credit: Radu Bercan / Shutterstock.com
REFLECTIONS | SEPTEMBER 2021
Department Articles
Items for your Disaster Kit BY SOLIVITA CERT
Preparedness for a major disaster such as a hurricane includes having a disaster kit. But what should be in it? In this article we will address the stuff other than water and food items. Along with the food you will need a manual can opener and some plastic utensils and paper products to avoid dishwashing by hand. Your kit should have a first aid kit with band aids, Polysporin, antiseptic, dust masks, moist towelettes, ointment for burns and cuts and some pain killers in case you overdo the cleanup activity. You should also have a set of hand tools (screw drivers, pliers) for potentially removing an interior door to block a damaged window to keep water and debris out. The door can support plastic sheeting or garbage bags covering a window frame with duct tape. The tools also could be used to free up items that are twisted in the face of winds. You should have a flashlight for each household member with extra batteries. A length of rope can be used to tie together outdoor furniture you couldn’t bring indoors and secure them to a post or other immovable object. A tarp is a good bet if roof damage occurs. You will also likely need some weights to keep the tarp in place. Work gloves for dealing with debris in the yard. Also, heavy shoes for traipsing around a wet yard or climbing on a ladder. Insect repellent is also advised when outdoors. For entertainment you may want to include some books or games to occupy yourself in daylight hours. A battery radio may be useful. A Weather Radio is good for keeping up with all-hazard notifications. These are especially useful when the power is out. REFLECTIONS | SEPTEMBER 2021
To store this stuff for ready access in an emergency you will need (one or more) containers. Simplistically this could just be garbage bags, but finding stuff in them may be difficult, especially in the dark. Plastic storage bins are ideal, but don’t select ones that are too big to lift when filled—maybe a couple of smaller ones. Cardboard boxes will also work and 5-gallon paint cans, too. Where do you keep this kit? At home you will likely consider the garage—out of the way, but subject to high heat that may degrade contents—periodically check on this. Another choice might be a spare closet or the bottom of your pantry, out of the way most of the time. Pull this disaster kit into your safe room when you hunker down. Also plan to put it in your car if you head out on the road. You may need these items along your route. All this in addition to a cache of your important papers, your medications for a few days and pet supplies (food and meds as well). Medical supplies normally delivered to your home may be delayed by road outages or continuing high winds that keep larger vehicles out of service. Put together your disaster kit now and you will be ready when an emergency occurs. This information is provided by the Solivita Community Emergency Response Team. Regular CERT meetings may be located in the Club Meeting List of Reflections. 15
Department Articles
Lifestyle Tips for Healthy Aging
BY RITA MILIOS PSYCHOTHERAPIST & HOLISTIC WELLNESS COACH, RIVIERA SPA MASSAGE September is Healthy Aging Month. Let’s explore some tips for aging healthfully, remaining vigorous, and living life to the fullest. While we can’t avoid aging altogether, we can adjust our lifestyles so that the challenges of aging can be minimized or delayed. By incorporating healthier lifestyle habits, we can keep our bodies and minds stronger and be more likely to avoid illness and injury.
Focus on Prevention
1. Get regular check-ups and health screenings. Some important screens include: • Weight - screen for obesity or diabetes • Blood pressure – check for increases or irregularities • Cholesterol screening • Colorectal cancer screening • Mammogram/cervical cancer screening (women) • Prostrate screening (men) • Bone density test 2. Manage your medications: • Keep a list of all medications, dosages, and frequencies; take to all doctor visits • Use a daily pill organizer or create a written schedule for yourself • Discard old medications when you get new prescriptions/replacements
2. Reduce or eliminate simple carbohydrates and “junk foods” such as candy, soda, cake, and cookies. 3. Drink sufficient water – one cup for every 20 pounds of weight per day (more in hot weather), or about 8 glasses per day. 4. Monitor fat intake and eat the right kinds of fat. As a general guideline, total fat intake should make up about 2530 percent of daily calorie intake. The American Heart Association suggests that only five to six percent of that should come from saturated fats (meats, high-fat dairy products, processed foods). Unsaturated fats should make up the rest (olive oil, canola oil, peanut oil, corn oil, sesame oil and sunflower oil; avocados, cashew nuts, walnuts, peanut butter; fish–especially those especially high in Omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, mackerel, trout, and tuna. Two servings per week of these fish are recommended. 5. Eat “brain foods” – foods that are high in antioxidants that reduce inflammation. Examples are dark, leafy greens such as kale, spinach, broccoli; dark fruits like blackberries, plums and cherries. Other anti-inflammatory fruits and veggies include peaches, strawberries, raspberries, kiwi, apples, cantaloupe; carrots, squash, sweet potatoes, cabbage and brussels sprouts. Coffee, dark chocolate, turmeric, cinnamon, tomatoes, and beets are also in the brain food category.
3. Keep up with vaccinations. The CDC recommends the following vaccinations for adults over 60: • Flu • Pneumonia • Covid • Shingles
Eat a Healthy Diet
Many illnesses, including heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes can be prevented or managed with proper nutrition. Here are the basic dietary recommendations for a healthy senior diet: 1. Eat plenty of complex carbohydrates (fruits, vegetables, and whole grains).
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Department Articles Spa Talk article continued from page 16
Don’t Forget Mental Health
It’s not unusual when thinking about a healthy lifestyle, to focus on physical health, but emotional and mental health are just as important. 1. Challenge your brain: • Play games that test cognition, like Scrabble, Sudoku, or do crossword puzzles • Sing or play a musical instrument • Take a class and learn something new: cooking, crafts, book club, etc. • Learn and practice meditation • Vary mental habits to create new neural (brain) pathways 2. Do what you love: • Start or renew a hobby • Spend time with friends and family • Take time for yourself each day
Stay Active
The best types of exercises for seniors, as recommended by Medicare.com, are: 1. Aerobic exercises that increase heart rate: • Swimming • Biking • Dancing • Walking - fast 2. Strength training exercises: • Weights • Resistance Bands 3. Low impact exercises: • Yoga • Water Aerobics • Pilates
BACK IN TOWN? If you want Reflections delivered to your Solivita home, don’t forget to let the Membership Department know you’ve returned to Solivita (SolivitaMembership@Evergreen-LM. com or 863-427-7143). REFLECTIONS | SEPTEMBER 2021
3. Practice gratitude: Many studies conducted over the past decade have found that people who consciously practice gratitude tend to be happier and less depressed. • “Count your blessings” – acknowledge something each day that you can be grateful for • Keep a “Gratitude Journal” – write down your gratitude perceptions and re-read them at a later date • Send a “gratitude message” – write a letter, or send an email or text to someone who has been helpful or nice to you For more strategies on healthy aging that focus on mental health, I invite you to attend my presentation in RSF2 on Wednesday, September 22nd at 2pm: “Mindset as the Fountain of Youth.” Riviera Spa Massage 407-914-9168 info@rivieraspamassage.com
SCOOP THE POO! Your dog did its duty ... now it's time for you to do yours! Help keep Solivita beautiful by cleaning up after your pets in your yards and throughout the common areas.
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Department Articles
Fall is Here!
BY BRAD THOMPSON BRANCH MANAGER, FLORALAWN Here we are again, looking toward fall and the coming holiday season. Does anyone else wonder where the year went?
Summer Tasks
At Floralawn, the advent of this autumn means we’ve completed our fifth summer as Solivita’s landscaping and lawn care provider. We’ve learned a lot over the past few years and continue to enjoy working in this beautiful community. Making residents happy by keeping turf, plants, and trees maintained and healthy gives us joy and satisfaction. As usual, our summer tasks were dominated by keeping turf and shrub growth under control. Our mowing and detail crews worked very hard. Florida’s crazy weather dynamics keep us on our toes. Summertime rains can result in soggy ground that stresses the grass. Summer days without rain can result in dry ground that stresses the grass. Our crews stay vigilant to weather fluctuations, running irrigation when it’s dry and turning
irrigation off when there are prolonged days of rain.
Watching for Fungal Turf Diseases
Besides monitoring grass for dryness or overwatering, we also keep an eye out for fungal diseases. Heat and humidity combine to create environments that fungi thrive in. We watch out for occurrences of Brown Patch, Gray Leaf Spot, Fairy Ring Fungus, and Take All Root Rot. These are all fungal diseases that attack turfgrass (especially St. Augustine grass, which grows throughout Solivita). We use cultural controls (proper mowing and irrigation practices) and chemical controls (fungicides and herbicides).
September Tasks
September tasks are mostly a continuation of summer tasks since the heat hasn’t let up yet. Summer rains will be slowing down this month, so we’ll continue to adjust the watering schedules as necessary. Mowing and detail crews are still providing weekly service.
September Love Bugs
This month we will endure the second love bug season of the year. If you’ve lived in Florida for a while, you know that love bugs come out in swarms every May and September. Try a wet dryer sheet to remove them from your windshield.
Coffee Talk
My Coffee Talk this month is September 3rd at 9am in the Starlite Ballroom. Got questions related to landscaping or Floralawn services? Bring them, and we’ll do our best to get them answered. If you can’t make it to the Coffee Talk, feel free to call us at 863-225-9565 or stop by our office in the Admin building for a chat.
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COMMUNITY EVENT ARTICLES
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS ARTICLES
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 community and can be advertised for two months - the month before and month of the event, unless otherwise requested.
Neighborhood Captains may send in articles and photos to Doug Gilbert at SolivitaCommunications@EvergreenLM.com. Doug will review and submit all of the Neighborhood articles directly to Reflections for publication. The content must be about an event, activity or other neighborhood program and will be limited to 100 words. REFLECTIONS | SEPTEMBER 2021
Department Articles
Yard of the Month Our latest “Yard of the Month” is located at 655 Irvine Ranch Road. Vilma and Jaime Soto Sabathie are the proud owners who take great pride in the curb appeal of their lovely landscape. Our non-resident judges choose a yard from a different neighborhood each month. You never know when we will come knocking on your door to tell you are the latest “Yard of the Month” winner. Be careful and get out early to work in the landscape during the “dog days” of September. Make Solivita Beautiful!
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REFLECTIONS | SEPTEMBER 2021