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Ridgemoor News

The September 2020

The Newsletter for the Residents of Ridgemoor

Volume 25, Issue 9

HOA Publishers, Inc. • 5420 Pioneer Park Blvd. Suite C • Tampa, FL, 33634

4 WAYS TO HELP TRANSITION PETS TO POST-QUARANTINE ROUTINES by Family Feature

As states ease COVID-19 restrictions and people get out of the house to return to work, pets around the country may see their daily routines of hanging out with everyone come to an end. Some dogs and cats handle routine changes easily. For others, a routine change at home can cause behavior issues, nervousness or separation anxiety. A Suzy survey of 5,000 U.S. pet owners found nearly 70% of respondents are concerned their pets will have new or additional anxiety when they return to work. It’s important to prepare pets for changes in routine, especially those that are new to a home, for their well-being and harmony of the whole family. Consider these post-quarantine transition tips. MAKE A PLAN The key to any plan is making sure everyone knows what to do. This goes for veteran pet owners and the owners of more than 221,000 new pets adopted or fostered since March, according to the 24Pet ShelterWatch Report. Pet owners should agree on the plan for their pets and details should be shared with children who help with care. “Pet owners should make a plan with minimal and realistic changes to help their dogs or cats adapt to new routines,” said veterinarian Elizabeth DeLomba, MBA, senior veterinary services consultant at VetriScience Laboratories. “Start by offering your pets belongings that make them feel safe and comfortable and add small things that promote mental and physical stimulation.” PRACTICE THE NEW ROUTINE Ease your pet into being alone by spending short periods of time away from him or her both in and outside the home and work your way up to hours of separation.

Use practice time to get your dog or cat used to what happens before you leave for work, comfortable with a crate or other safe space and acquainted with a new toy, treat or someone who will check on him or her during the day. Before you leave, take your pet for a walk or play at home to get energy out prior to your departure. When it is time to leave, don’t make a big deal out of leaving. Say goodbye long before you leave then leave calmly. TRY A CALMING SUPPLEMENT The survey revealed that 65% of respondents plan to use a nutritional supplement to help their dog or cat cope with any anxiety a new routine brings. Over the counter calming supplements like VetriScience Composure chews can help pets relax during stressful times without changing their personality or energy level. Calming supplements come in bite-size chews or a liquid dosage and can help relieve stress for dogs and cats of all breeds and sizes. “Fear and anxiety disorders affect 23 million dogs in the U.S. alone,” DeLomba said. “Supplements may offer a convenient approach for managing separation anxiety and other behavioral issues. The ingredients in supplements work together to make a positive impact on behavior and anxiousness, which results in a calmer, more focused pet.” KEEP THEM STIMULATED Don’t let your dog or cat feel bored when home alone. Play music, keep a television on or use a white noise machine to create some constant sound. If your pet isn’t into watching television, keep him or her busy with a treat-dispensing toy that requires some work. Or stuff a toy with peanut butter, freeze it and give it to your dog when you leave. These ideas can help keep your pet’s mind stimulated and encourage him or her to focus on something other than being alone. Start thinking about a plan for your pet and ask your veterinarian if you have concerns about behavioral changes. Learn more and find the full survey results at vetriscience.com. Photos courtesy of Getty Images • #15314 • Source: VetriScience

The Ridgemoor News

Important Phone Numbers:

September 2020

MANAGERS’ CORNER

Auto Registration......................................................... 464-7777

To report problems within your subdivision, contact your property management. For gate problems, manager@ridgemoormaster.com.

Cypress Woods Elementary School............................ 538-7325

Briarwick

Domestic Violence Hotline.............................. 1-800-500-1119 Driver’s Licenses......................................................... 725-7944 East Lake Fire Dept..................................................... 784-8668 East Lake High School................................................. 942-5419 FDLE Registered Sex Offenders................. 888-FL-PREDATOR FDLE Sex Offenders list. www.fdle.state.fl.us/sexual_predators Progress Energy (report streetlights out).........1-800-228-8485 Pinellas County Sheriff (non-emergency).................... 582-6200

Vacation house checks (2 weeks max.)................ 582-6177

Poison Control Hotline..................................1-800-222-1222 Pinellas County Water Utilities................................... 464-4000 TRIDENT Patrol Unit phone:........................ 727-339-9468 Tarpon Springs Middle School..................................... 943-5511 Voter Information.................................................727-464-6108

Ridgemoor Master Board of Directors Steve Lyle ............................................................. President Gayle Barta................................................... Vice President Debbi Schaefer..................................................... Secretary John Longo .......................................................... Treasurer Rhett Woehrle ..........................................................Director Diana Goetz ........................................... Property Manager DGoetz@condominiumassociates.com 813-341-0943. Check the gate bulletin board for meeting notices.

The

Ridgemoor News

The Ridgemoor News is published and mailed free to all area residents by HOA Publishers. Articles are written by volunteers, and may be edited. Views and opinions expressed are those of the writers, not HOA Publishers. Please include your name, phone, and subdivision on all correspondence.

Anonymous letters will not be printed. HOA Publishers, Inc. • 813.875.6068 1313 N Howard Ave, Tampa, FL, 33607 www.HOApub.com

DEADLINE

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Submit forms located on www.hoapub.com

Monarch Association Management, Inc. Sue Marino................727-204-4766 Westwind.Sue@monarcham.com Brookhaven Progressive Management Company Mike Bartow...............727-773-7542 Mbartow@progressivem.com Chattam Landing Sentry Management Dawn Archambault.. ..727-799-8982 darchambault@sentrymgt.com Devonshire Please contact Board member. Farrell Park I Property Management by Design Inc. Colette Ciliberti........ 727-614-9911 bydesign89@gmail.com Farrell Park II Property Management by Design Inc. Colette Ciliberti.........727-614-9911 bydesign89@gmail.com Farrell Park III Property Management by Design Inc. Colette Ciliberti.........727-614-9911 bydesign89@gmail.com Farrell Park IV Monarch Association Management, Inc. Sue Marino................727-204-4766 Sue@monarcham.com Farrell Pk/Brkhaven/Teal Property Management by Design Inc. Colette Ciliberti.........727-614-9911 bydesign89@gmail.com Foxberry Run Self Managed Lou Tutko...................727-787-3461 earnyourbiz@gmail.com Glenridge Sentry Management Donna Boston...........727-799-8982 dboston@sentrymgt.com Glenridge East First Choice Metro Donna Miraglia................................ donna@firstchoicemetro.com Ridgemoor Master Assoc. Condominium Associates Diana Goetz..............813-341-0943 Dgoetz@condominiumassociates.com Salem Square Melrose Management Partnership Andrew Schmidt.............................. Salem Village Elite Property Management Svcs., Wendy Fasulo............727-400-6850 Stratford Commons Resource Property Management Chuck Pitassi........... 727-796-5900 cpitassi@resourcepropertymgmt.com Tealwood Sentry Management, Inc. Chelle Walsh.............727-942-1906 Wescott Square Property Management by Design Inc. Colette Ciliberti.........727-614-9911 bydesign89@gmail.com Westmonte Estates Citadel Property Mgmt. Group Jim Ranallo................727-938-7730 Westwind/Reserve Monarch Association Management, Inc. Sue Marino................727-204-4766 Windemere Sentry Management DeeDee Rodriguez....727-799-8982 ARodriguez@SentryMgt.com

September 2020

The Ridgemoor News 3

TRY A NEW WAY TO TRAVEL by Family Features

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, families are still finding ways to make the most of unusual schedules to plan a getaway. With more flexible work and school arrangements, many families are embracing the idea of a “flexcation,” an emerging travel trend where families rent vacation homes later in August, September and October, consider staying longer to mix work and play, and often get better value in high-demand locales. “Though this year has been incredibly difficult for families, it’s inspiring to see how they have become resilient and resourceful by choosing alternative ways and dates to take vacations,” said Lish Kennedy, vice president of brand marketing at Vrbo. “More flexibility in our work and school schedules is allowing families to enjoy a welcome change in their surroundings and a relaxing break together.” If you missed out on your family’s annual summer trip this year or just want to take advantage of more flexibility in your work and school routines, consider these reasons to take a flexcation. Save money and avoid crowds. Prices for vacation rentals typically drop during shoulder season, the time period after Labor Day and before the holiday travel season. Families not tied to strict in-person school or work commitments can benefit from fewer crowds and lower prices by choosing later travel dates. For example, you can find drops of at least 20% in average nightly rates for vacation homes in popular destinations like Cape Cod, Massachusetts; Cape May, New Jersey; and Ocean City, Maryland, through October compared to prime summer travel dates. See familiar places in new ways. Traveling during a different

time of year lets you see favorite destinations from a different perspective. It’s a chance to create new family experiences together, like seeing the leaves change colors or visiting the beach when temperatures are milder. Stay longer. Travel data from Vrbo indicates families want to take longer vacations. With the ability to work remotely or complete online assignments anywhere there’s a Wi-Fi connection, there’s no need to cut a weekend trip short to get back in time for class or punch the clock on Monday morning. If a full week isn’t realistic, you might consider an extra-long weekend, extending your trip from Thursday-Monday instead of the more traditional Friday-Sunday. Enjoy a change of scenery. According to a study from New York University, people feel happier when they have more variety in their daily routines, such as going to novel places and having a wider array of experiences. After months of sheltering in place, a flexcation may be an ideal way to reestablish a healthy sense of balance. Before you go, be sure to research how COVID-19 might affect your travel plans, including any travel restrictions, quarantine policies or changes in hours and access to popular attractions in the area. It’s also a good idea to make sure you understand and verify details about your accommodations before you make reservations, such as enhanced cleaning procedures at the property and flexible cancellation policies. Start planning your next trip at vrbo.com. Photo courtesy of Getty Images • #15107 • Source: Vrbo

The Ridgemoor News

September 2020

SUPPORT STUDENTS THROUGH COMMUNITY PROGRAMS by Family Features

As kids prepare for the upcoming school year, school supplies remain critical to their success. While school districts struggle with the challenge of delivering education and resources to students amid a pandemic, many parents are working to determine how they will ensure their children have the necessary supplies. Community youth programs are innovating to fill gaps and ensure kids from low-income families in particular are equipped with learning materials and supplies, enrichment activities and food. For example, when schools closed, local corps of The Salvation Army started adapting creative alternatives to their youth programs to provide activities, snacks and educational materials like coloring sheets, scavenger hunts and more to keep kids entertained and learning. If you’d like to make a similar impact in your community, consider lending a hand in one of these ways: Tutor or mentor students. Although most kids across the nation face the same challenges with academics, some are at more of a disadvantage because their access to remote learning resources is limited or parents are unable to assist at home. You can help by volunteering to tutor students as they practice learned skills and get back into the swing of a new school year. Donate supplies. There are 30 million children in the United States whose parents will have to choose between buying school supplies or other necessities like putting food on the table. Consider adding extra common items like crayons, markers and glue when you shop for your own children and dropping them off at your local youth center. Campaigns like The Salvation Army’s “Stuff the Bus” events allow shoppers to purchase and drop off requested items at collection bins located at the front of participating retailers. Get involved with extracurricular activities. If you have a particular skillset or experience, for example as a high school or college athlete, lending your knowledge to a local youth group can help provide a constructive outlet for kids while enriching your own life. Volunteer for meal distribution. Many children rely heavily on schools for meals; in fact, the food some students receive through their schools’ breakfast and lunch programs may be the only meals they get in a day. Across the country, organizations have partnered with local school districts to provide meal kits, coordinate food distribution routes and pickup locations to get meals to kids and families. Depending on the needs in your area, you may be able to donate food, assist with organizing the meal kits or help coordinate deliveries. Help fund youth programs. Uncertainty caused by COVID-19 has many people reconsidering their finances, and that means the donations and contributions many programs rely upon have slowed. If your situation allows, consider a monetary contribution to a youthoriented cause, which can help deliver programming even if you’re not able to volunteer in other ways. Learn more about getting involved in your community at salvationarmyusa.org.

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PURPOSEFUL YOUTH PROGRAMS While many children from low-income families rarely experience life outside of their immediate neighborhoods, youth programs can help kids discover new skills, passions and hobbies while connecting with others in a safe, healthy way. Along with community centers dedicated to supporting the physical, emotional and spiritual growth of moms, dads and kids, organizations like The Salvation Army provide after-school programs for students of all ages and numerous music, art and athletic programs at its 7,600 centers across the country. The organization’s “Stuff the Bus” program also helps make activities and programs more accessible to low-income youth in local communities, including: After-school programs offer homework assistance and counseling for children of all ages, as well as one-on-one assistance with homework, study skills and literacy advancement. Dance, art and music programs are offered in no- or low-cost environments. Classes range from choir, band and dancing to drawing, writing and acting. Sports, clubs and extracurricular activities give children from low-income neighborhoods a chance to play team sports and learn valuable athletic and life skills. Parental involvement coaching equips parents with the skills needed to support and sustain their children’s educational needs. #15370 • Source: The Salvation Army

September 2020

The Ridgemoor News 5

SNACK HACKS THAT REALLY POP by Family THE BENEFITS OFFeatures ACCENT LIGHTING Sally Giar, Decorating Interiors Ifbyspending more time atDen home than usual has you reaching for snacks more often, keep some quick, flavorful options on-hand to help fuel you and your family throughout the day when hunger pangs strike.

One versatile pantry staple that can fit a variety of snack cravings: popcorn. With no artificial additives or preservatives, light and airy popcorn is naturally low in fat and calories, nonGMO and gluten free, making it a sensible option to enjoy one handful at a time or sprinkled with seasonings that satisfy your taste buds. A whole-grain food, popcorn has energy-producing carbohydrates and fiber, which can help keep you satisfied longer. Plus, it’s simple enough to make that kids can help in the kitchen by popping it themselves or adding toppings.

SUGAR CORN Yield: 8 cups

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil, for popping • 1/2 cup popcorn kernels • 1 pinch white sugar, plus additional, to taste - In medium pan, heat oil until hot. - Add popcorn to pan and sprinkle sugar over it. Add more sugar, if desired, to taste. - Cover and shake pan continuously until popcorn is popped.

Whether you’re craving something sweet, salty, spicy - or nearly anything else - freshly popped popcorn can serve as the perfect base ingredient to simply mix in your favorite toppings or create more unique tastes by combining a variety of herbs and spices. For example, consider these hacks to add easy flavor: • Pop it on the stove. Stovetop popping allows you to choose your toppings. Cover the bottom of a pot with a thin layer of oil and popcorn kernels, shake to coat, cover with a lid then turn on the heat. Once popping has slowed to 2-second intervals, remove from heat and add toppings. • Add some sweetness. When you’re in the mood for something sweet, add a dash of salt and a pinch of sugar (or more to meet your taste) to a bowl of popcorn. Or add sugar to the pan before it’s popped, like this recipe for Sugar Corn. • Melt some butter. For a classic taste treat, melt a little butter and pour over your bowl of popped corn. • Satisfy multiple cravings. Pop a large pot of popcorn and divide it in half; top one half with sweeter toppings like honey, which is a key ingredient in Honey Matcha Popcorn, and the other with something savory, like nutritional yeast or dill. When hunger strikes, you’re ready, regardless of the flavor craving. • Spice it up. Cayenne pepper and a blend of other spices can be sprinkled on popcorn to create a spicier snack like Cajun Corn. • Add mix-ins. Add dried fruits, nuts or candies to a bowl of popcorn to make your own trail mix. • Cheese, please. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can make your snack a bit more substantial. Mix in some dried herbs like basil and parsley to create this Popcorn Con Pesto. For more snack ideas that deliver on both flavor and nutrition, visit popcorn.org. #15242 • Source: Popcorn Board

CAJUN CORN Yield: 2 1/2 quarts

• 1/4 cup butter, melted • 2 1/2 quarts popped popcorn, warm • 1 teaspoon paprika • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper • 1 teaspoon lemon pepper - Heat oven to 300 F. - In bowl, pour butter over warm popcorn. - In separate bowl, combine paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper and lemon pepper; sprinkle over popcorn. Toss to mix. - Bake 5-10 minutes for crispy popcorn.

The Ridgemoor News

September 2020

LEARN TO LIVE IN THE PRESENT MOMENT by MyHOA.com

To a large degree, the measure of our peace of mind is determined by how much we are able to live in the present moment. Irrespective of what happened yesterday or last year, and what may or may not happen tomorrow, the present moment is where you are - always! Without question, many of us have mastered the neurotic art of spending much of our lives worrying about a variety of things - all at once. We allow past problems and future concerns to dominate our present moments, so much so that we end up anxious, frustrated, depressed, and hopeless. On the flip side, we also postpone our gratification, our stated priorities, and our happiness, often convincing ourselves that “someday” will be better than today. Unfortunately, the same mental dynamics that tell us to look toward the future will only repeat themselves so that “someday” never actually arrives. John Lennon once said, “Life is what’s happening while we’re busy making other plans,” our children are busy growing up, the people we love are moving away and dying, our bodies are getting out of shape, and our dreams are slipping away. In short, we miss out on life. Many people live as if life were a dress rehearsal for some later date. It isn’t. In fact, no one has a guarantee that he or she will be here tomorrow. Now is the only time we have, and the

only time that we have any control over. When our attention is in the present moment, we push fear from our minds. Fear is the concern over events that might happen in the future - we don’t have enough money, our children will get into trouble, we will get old and die, whatever. To combat fear, the best strategy is to learn to bring your attention back to the present. Mark Twain said, “I have been through some terrible things in my life, some of which actually happened.” I don’t think I can say it any better. Practice keeping your attention on the here and now. Your efforts will pay great dividends.

The Dukas Group Nicholas G. Dukas

Senior Vice President/Investments

nicholas.dukas@stifel.com (727) 614-4940 | (800) 275-9133

2605 Enterprise Road East, Suite 168 | Clearwater, Florida 33759

Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated | Member SIPC & NYSE | www.stifel.com

September 2020

The Ridgemoor News 7

STRENGTHEN MENTAL HEALTH BY EMBRACING CULTURE by Family Features

This means culture and life experiences are at the center of therapy. Patients can expect their narratives will be not only heard and acknowledged, but also put into perspective to help gain a greater understanding of their experiences. Research shows therapists whose patients perceive them as having cultural humility deliver improved therapy outcomes. That’s why Henry Health therapists complete training that equips them with the skills needed to effectively address issues of race, ethnicity, class and culture. A scientifically validated tool measures therapists’ cultural responsiveness and provides education and coaching to improve their cultural humility.

One in five U.S. adults experience mental illness each year, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, and adult African Americans are 20% more likely to experience mental health issues compared to the general population. “The factors that cause or exacerbate mental illness are often found in higher numbers among minorities,” said Dr. Rufus Spann, chief clinical officer with Henry Health, a culturally sensitive mental health organization. “Tackling this problem requires a unique understanding of cultural differences.” Organizations like Henry Health make access to mental health care accessible and convenient for minorities, removing barriers to seeking treatment. The organization offers culturally intentional care delivered by practitioners equipped to treat any population dealing with emotional and mental health issues, and believes effective care follows three essential principles: it puts culture first, is evidence based and is built on best practices.

COMMON STRESSORS Culturally responsive care can help improve a variety of stressors, including: • Anger • Trauma • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder • Domestic violence • Family and relationships • Money and finances • Race and racism • Health and illness • Jobs and career • Grief and loss • Substance use • Anxiety • Depression

In addition to cultural considerations, therapy involves the noted clinical best practices of cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma-informed care. Cognitive behavior therapy is a widely used therapeutic technique that has lasting impacts on mental health outcomes while trauma-informed care ensures patients have access to safe spaces to examine, process and transcend trauma. Getting Started It’s normal to be unsure or hesitant about trying therapy. Some organizations even offer free 15-minute consultations so you can speak with a therapist before officially registering. When you are ready to start therapy, the process is usually simple. For example, through Henry Health, you begin with an online registration form, receive an email matching you with a therapist, login to the member portal to schedule an appointment and join your session from the convenience of a phone, tablet or computer. Visit henry-health.com for more information or to register.

The Ridgemoor News

September 2020

LIVE TO THRIVE Working constantly to get ahead without regard to the impact on your body, mind or productivity may produce the results you desire in the short-term, but the long-term implications are typically less favorable. Shifting your focus from the familiar grind to your mental well-being is a process you can tackle one step at a time. Get started with these tips from Men Thrive, a digital community designed by Black men for Black men that focuses on providing the tools they need to thrive rather than simply survive.

Check In

Be honest with yourself about how and what you’re feeling. Acknowledge your feelings even if you can’t name them. It can be more powerful than you may think. Then schedule a wellness call to assess your current quality of mental and physical health.

Talk to Your Tribe

Decide what you need from the people closest to you and be that to them. Identify a moment you would normally say, “I’m good” when you’re actually not and talk about what’s on your mind. Be honest if you don’t know what to do with what you feel and acknowledge that you’re tired of ignoring it, bottling it in and feeling the pressure.

Seek Culturally Responsive Advice

Seek information and advice from an expert, like a therapist, who has professional and cultural intelligence that relates to your experiences and story. Research shows treatment outcomes greatly improve when cultural and historical knowledge are included in the approach to care.

Engage in the Process

Place your focus on showing up whole, operating with joy and living with power. Aggressively pursue actions required to achieve a thriving lifestyle.

Join a Community

A sense of community is essential to improving your mental health. A resource like Men Thrive can give you access to a community and a set of powerful self-mastery tools such as live segments, podcasts and guided meditation. Explore more advice and resources at MenThrive.com. Photos courtesy of Getty Images • #15362 • Source: Henry Health

INCREASE YOUR LIGHTING EFFICIENCY (AND SAVE $!) by MyHOA.com

Appropriate lighting contributes to our comfort and our ability to work and thrive in the buildings we occupy. Our choice of light bulbs and natural light sources, as well as their placement within the indoor environment, plays a big role in the overall health of our families and our impact on the environment. Standard incandescent light bulbs, which are commonly used in most households, have many environmental downfalls. About 90% of the power used by incandescent bulbs is given off as heat, and only 10% is actually converted into light. Besides wasting electricity to generate a small amount of light, energy is misused in creating heat, which can adversely affect indoor climate control. These light bulbs last a fraction of the time compared to some of the alternatives widely available today. Compact fluorescent light bulbs are about three to four times more efficient at converting electricity into light. The Rocky Mountain Institute, a non-profit organization focusing on energy and resource efficiency, notes that each incandescent bulb that we replace with a compact fluorescent bulb prevents the emission of 1,000-2,000 pounds of carbon dioxide from power plants and 8-16 pounds of sulfur dioxide. One compact fluorescent

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light bulb also eliminates the need to produce and dispose of up to a dozen incandescent bulbs, and saves us around $25-50 in electricity costs over the lifetime of the bulb. Light bulbs differ in the quality of color they deliver. Light bulb manufacturers have dramatically improved the quality of color given off from all light bulbs, with a goal in most cases to replicate the quality of light coming from indirect sun, which is the best quality of light for work. Full spectrum light bulbs provide a more balanced light by filtering out the excess yellow and green light emitted by ordinary light bulbs. Studies have found that full spectrum light should help you to read for longer periods of time with less eye strain. You should also experience a warmer and more pleasing, natural looking environment. Colors will look truer and more vibrant. Contrast will be sharper.