Water Department Emergency Services (24 hours) : 813-274-8811, Option 1
Cross Creek Gate in Cory Lake Isles (to contact CLI security 24/7) 813 907-8400
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HELPFUL PHONE NUMBERS
Fallen tree on public property ....... https://bit.ly/44YHuNf
To get trash can repaired/replaced https://bit.ly/3B0CCds
Report missed trash pick up .........https://bit.ly/4722CUS
Report mosquito related issues .... https://bit.ly/3rHcenU
Tampa Police Dept. vacation watch request https://bit.ly/3OrSY6H
Report to city of Tampa overgrown lot complaint https://bit.ly/44F169H
Report to city of Tampa sewer odor complaint https://bit.ly/3Y6r7vY
Upcoming CDD Election in Cory Lake Isles: What You Need to Know
By Cynthia McIntyre
The Cory Lake Isles Community Development District (CDD) election is fast approaching, with three out of five supervisor seats on the ballot during the November 5 general election. This election plays a critical role in shaping the future of our community, as the CDD is responsible for managing and financing the infrastructure that supports our neighborhood’s development. Governed under Chapter 190 of the Florida Statutes, the CDD provides an alternative to municipal incorporation, granting our community a localized form of governance.
Each CDD supervisor serves a 4-year term, and the upcoming election will determine the leadership for Seats 1, 2, and 3. Understanding who these candidates are and the roles they will play in our community’s future is vital for informed voting.
Seat 1: Ron Acoff (Unopposed)
Ron Acoff, the incumbent supervisor, is running unopposed for re-election to Seat 1.
Seat 2: A Contested Race Between Juan Jose Aliaga and Prasad Yealuru
The most closely watched seat this election cycle is Seat 2, where two candidates are vying for the position: Juan Jose Aliaga and Prasad Yealuru. This competitive race gives residents a choice between differing perspectives and ideas on how best to manage the community’s affairs.
Seat 3: Anthony Hawkeye (Unopposed)
Like Ron Acoff, Anthony Hawkeye is running unopposed for Seat 3. A new face to the CDD, Hawkeye’s candidacy brings fresh energy and ideas.
The Importance of Your Vote
While two of the seats are uncontested, the race for Seat 2 highlights the importance of voter participation. Each vote helps shape the policies that will impact the future of Cory Lake Isles, from infrastructure improvements to community services.
Mark your calendars for November 5, and make sure to cast your vote to have a say in the future of our community!
Be Prepared to Vote in the General Election Nov 5, 2024
Register: https://registertovoteflorida.gov/home
Info from the Supervisor of Elections for Hillsborough County website
Important Dates:
Deadline to register or change party affiliation: October 7
Early Voting: October 21 - November 3, 7 AM - 7 PM. You can vote in person or drop off your Vote By Mail ballot at any of the Early Voting locations during this time.
Vote By Mail: We plan to begin mailing ballots to overseas and absent military voters on September 20, and to domestic voters on October 3. Voted ballots must be in the Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Office by 7 PM November 5. You must request a Vote By Mail ballot to receive one.
Election Day: November 5, 7 AM - 7 PM. To vote in person on Election Day, you must vote in the polling place assigned to your precinct.
October 7 is the deadline to register to vote (if not already registered)
The deadline to register for an upcoming election is 29 days before that election. You can also update your registration record at any time. However, since Florida is a closed primary election state, a party change for a primary election must be made by the registration deadline for that election. If the deadline has passed, you can still submit an online application at any time and it will be processed for future elections.
• If you submit an online application, the deadline is midnight (11:59:59 eastern time).
• If you mail your application, the application must be postmarked by the registration deadline date for the applicable election.
If you deliver the application in person, it must be received by the Supervisor of Elections office by the close of business by the deadline.
Ways to Register to Vote:
ONLINE: https://registertovoteflorida.gov/
home
IN WRITING:
You can also find voter registration applications at any of these voter registration agencies:
• Supervisor of Elections offices
• Driver license offices
• Public assistance offices
• Public libraries
• Offices that serve people with disabilities
• Armed forces recruitment offices
• Centers for independent living
Include your legal residential address on the application. A P.O. Box or commercial address is not acceptable, since you will be voting for representatives based on where you live. If you don't receive your mail at your residence, you may include a mailing address on the form, as well.
If your application is complete and you meet the requirements to be registered to vote, we will mail you a Voter Information Card. If you do not receive your card within 4 weeks, or if you have any questions, call our office at (813) 744-5900.
To see the registration information, we have on file for you, check your voter registration status here. bit.ly/3ZIQarW
Request to Vote By Mail Deadline is October 24, 2024
If you want to vote by mail, visit VoteHillsborough.gov or call (813) 744-5900 to request your Vote By Mail ballot. We’ll start mailing those ballots out soon, and continue fulfilling requests received through 5PM, October 24.
• September 20: first mailing to absent military and overseas voters
• October 3: first mailing to domestic voters
Who is eligible to vote
You must:
• Be a citizen of the United States of America (only U.S. citizens have the right to register or vote in Florida.);
• Be a legal resident of Florida;
• Be a legal resident of the county in which you seek to be registered;
• Be at least 16 years old to preregister or
at least 18 years old to register and vote;
• Not be a person who has been adjudicated mentally incapacitated with respect to voting in Florida or any other state without having the right to vote restored; and
• Not be a person convicted of a felony without having your right to vote restored. Notice: It is a 3rd degree felony to submit false information. Maximum penalties are $5,000 and/or 5 years in prison.
Requesting Your Vote by Mail Ballot:
The deadline to request a Vote By Mail ballot is 5 p.m. local time on the 12th day before the election. Any registered voter can submit a request to vote by mail. Whether you plan to be in town or out of town on Election Day, we'll send your ballot wherever you need it to be. Just make sure to let us know if your mailing address changes. We keep the most recent mailing address on file for all of our correspondence with you. Florida law requires us to cancel your Vote By Mail ballot request when any first-class or nonforwardable mail from us is returned as undeliverable.
ONLINE : Use our online mail ballot request service. bit.ly/4gIntBs BY PHONE: (813 612-4180
IN PERSON: At any of our four Supervisor of Elections Offices: bit.ly/3BlIGB5 IN WRITING BY MAIL, FAX or EMAIL: Complete the DS-DE 160 Statewide Voteby-Mail Request Form bit.ly/3N4ZZsz and return it by email (voter@votehillsborough. gov), or mail it to: Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections, 2514 N. Falkenburg Rd, Tampa, FL 33619 or fax to: 813-7445843.
Vote By Mail is the most convenient way to vote. You'll receive your ballot in the mail, and can take your time making your voting decisions. We even include I Voted By Mail stickers in every envelope, so you can let your friends know you voted! You must make a new request to vote by mail for every General Election. (Due to new election law, Vote By Mail requests now expire after every General Election.)
For many years now, about a third of our voters have found Vote By Mail to be an easy, reliable method of voting.
Track Your Ballot :
Sign up with BallotTrax ( bit. ly/3TNHA7A) to receive text, email or phone notifications when your Vote By Mail ballot is mailed to you and when your voted ballot has been received and counted. You can also use our Voter Information Lookup Tool ( bit.ly/3ZIQarW) to see your Vote By Mail ballot status at any time. If your voter information is protected, you'll need to call (813) 612-4180 to check the status of your ballot.
Voting Facts:
Are non-citizens able to vote in Florida?
In Florida, it’s against the law for non-citizens to register to vote or vote, and Florida has a strong commitment to ensuring that. When registering to vote, the applicant must affirm that they are a U.S. citizen, and that they understand that falsifying the document is a 3rd degree felony. In
accordance with the law, our office reviews the application for completeness and the Department of State Division of Elections verifies their identity through their license or social security number before the registration is considered valid.
The Division of Elections coordinates with official sources on a regular basis and forwards any credible and reliable information on non-citizenship to our office. When we receive evidence that a person is ineligible to vote, we follow Florida law (FS 98.075) to provide notice and an opportunity to be heard to that registrant and, if the information remains valid, remove them from the voter rolls.
Where can I find more information on the ballot amendments?
Visit the 2024 General Election page (bit.ly/4epN1BK ) to read the amendments and see the proposed changes to the
Florida Constitution.
Proposed amendments to the Florida Constitution require 60% approval from voters to pass (Florida Constitution, Article XI, Section 5(e)) and proposed Hillsborough County and City of Tampa referendums require majority approval from voters to pass.
What checks and balances ensure an accurate vote count?
To make sure every ballot is counted, we have systematic, redundant procedures in place to track how many ballots are issued, returned and counted. Our ballot scanners are tested repeatedly and publicly before every election. Afterwards, we run a post-election audit, scanning every ballot into a separate State-certified system to confirm the accuracy of our results. Finally, to ensure accountability, election results and voter history become public record.
As I drive through the scenic streets of Cory Lake Isles on our trash pick-up days, it’s clear that many residents could benefit from a simple yet often overlooked service provided by Hillsborough County: free repair or replacement of garbage and recycling carts.
If your carts are damaged or in need of replacement, all it takes is a quick visit to the county’s website. By filling out a simple form, Hillsborough County will send a crew to your home to either repair or replace your cart at no cost to you.
To take advantage of this convenient service, visit bit.ly/3zu5U7w, and help keep our community looking its best!
Receive Notices About Critical Situations Affecting Tampa with “Alert Tampa”
ALERT TAMPA is a FREE service provided by the city of Tampa to notify its’ residents about critical information quickly in a variety of situations, such as severe weather, critical law enforcement activity, missing persons, evacuations of buildings or neighborhoods, and boil water notices. You will receive time-
sensitive messages wherever you specify, such as your home, mobile or business phones, email address, text messages, and more. You pick where and how!
You must stay informed about emergencies and warnings from the City of Tampa. The easiest way is to enroll in the Alert
Tampa Emergency Notification System. Once you sign up you will receive emergency notifications directly from the city to your phone, email or text as soon as it goes out. Use the following link to sign up for this valuable service : bit.ly/4eJeYEs
Humane Society of Tampa Bay Fundraiser!
When: February 8th, 2025
Where: Curtis Hixon Park
What: Bark in the Park 2025
Includes a one-mile Walk for the Animals along the beautiful Riverwalk, followed by a family and pet-friendly festival! Plenty will be going on, including food and drinks, vendors, entertainment, a Kid Zone, and fun activities for pets and their people. Of course, also attending will be some adoptable dogs. WOOF!
Bark in the Park benefits thousands
of homeless animals each year by raising funds for such things as food, housing, and medical care.
Please visit their website for complete information.
I am participating this year along with some of your neighbors and we have created a team fundraising page called Making It Pawsible.
Our team’s donation page is: https://secure.qgiv.com/event/humane-
societyoftampabayp2p/team/960764/ (you can also type Making it Pawsible in the search bar of the Bark in the Park website to find us)
We are currently at 24% of our goal and would like to get to 100%. Every little bit helps any animal that may be in need at the HSTB. Please donate today! We hope to see you at the event, and THANK YOU on behalf of the Humane Society of Tampa Bay!
JCS Security: Protecting Cory Lake Isles During Hurricane Helene
By John Scanlon, JCS Security Owner
As Hurricane Helene swept through the Tampa Bay area, Cory Lake Isles residents could rest easier knowing that JCS Security was on high alert, dedicated to keeping the community safe. Even in the midst of the storm's chaos, JCS maintained full security operations, ensuring that every vehicle entering the community underwent the usual thorough checks, while their roving patrols tirelessly monitored the streets.
When reports of possible gunshots were reported by residents, JCS didn’t hesitate. They immediately called in extra personnel to reinforce the team. Within just three minutes, JCS officers were on the scene and determined that the alarming noises were caused by a blown transformer, not gunfire. Their swift, decisive action reassured residents, underscoring JCS’s readiness to handle emergencies with precision.
Throughout the storm, JCS didn’t just maintain basic operations—they stepped up their efforts. Up to four members of JCS’s leadership team were physically present, actively patrolling the neighborhood in addition to the two guards at
the gates. While most residents sheltered in their homes, JCS’s leadership was out in the storm, ensuring that the streets of Cory Lake Isles were safe, the gates were secure, and no threat went unnoticed. Remarkably, this heightened level of service was provided at no additional cost to the community, reflecting JCS’s deep commitment to Cory Lake Isles.
After the winds subsided, JCS continued to demonstrate their value. Their officers conducted a comprehensive inspection of the community, identifying areas of damage and potential hazards. The detailed report they compiled was combined with findings from the new Facility Manager, resulting in an accurate and timely status report that was presented to the Cory Lake Isles CDD.
JCS Security's unwavering dedication during Hurricane Helene exemplifies their professionalism and commitment to the safety of Cory Lake Isles. From immediate emergency response to detailed post-storm reporting, JCS proved to be a reliable and invaluable protector of the community.
By John Scanlon, JCS Security Owner
Hurricane Season Is Upon Us: Preparation is Key
Since the hurricane season stretches from June 1 to November 30, it's vital to remain vigilant. Although Cory Lake Isles avoided the full impact of Hurricane Helene, we cannot assume that the remainder of the season will be as forgiving. Florida’s geographic location puts us at heightened risk. Being proactive can make all the difference.
Preparation is an ongoing process, and it’s never too late to ready your household. This issue of the Islander contains a great deal of information that you may find helpful to ensure you and your family are prepared for the next storm. Now is the time to review your plans and assess your home’s ability to withstand high winds and flooding. A well-prepared family is a resilient one, and your efforts today may safeguard your family and property in the face of the next storm.
Remember, the best defense against a hurricane is preparedness. Stay informed, stay safe.
Make a Plan
Your family may not be together if a disaster strikes, so it is important to think about the following situations and plan just in case. Consider the following questions when making a plan:
• How will my family get to safe locations during an emergency?
• How will my family get in touch if phones and internet doesn’t work?
• How will I let loved ones know I am safe?
• How will I care for my pets
during a disaster?
As a first step to becoming, you need to make a plan by visiting the State of Florida’s FloridaDisaster.org website. This state resource will provide you step by step actions to take for developing a custom plan to meet your family’s needs. You can also visit the FEMA web site www.ready.gov/makea-plan . Another good place to begin planning for your pets is: bit.ly/3ZHr6Bu.
Prepare a Disaster Supply Kit
One of the most important tools for emergency preparedness is your Disaster Supply Kit. You may need to survive on your own after an emergency. This means having your own food, water and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least 72 hours. First responders and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster but they may not be able to reach everyone immediately. You will get help, but it may take hours or even days after a disaster. Download the FEMA Disaster Supply Checklist (bit. ly/3Y12Uc5)
Make sure your emergency kit is stocked with the items on the checklist below.
Basic Disaster Supplies Kit
To assemble your kit store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easyto-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag. A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:
• Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation)
• Food (at least a several-day supply of non-perishable food)
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA
Weather Radio with tone alert
• Flashlight
• First aid kit
• Extra batteries
• Whistle (to signal for help)
• Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
• Plastic sheeting, scissors and duct tape (to shelter in place)
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
• Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)
• Manual can opener (for food)
• Local maps
• Cell phone with chargers an a backup battery
Additional Emergency Supplies
Consider adding the following items to your emergency supply kit based on your individual needs:
• Soap, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces
• Prescription medications. About half of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day. An emergency can make it difficult for them to refill their prescription or to find an open pharmacy. Organize and protect your prescriptions, overthe-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.
• Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, antidiarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
• Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
• Infant formula, bottles, dia-
pers, wipes and diaper rash cream
• Pet food and extra water for your pet
• Cash or traveler's checks
• Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
• Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container
• Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
• Paper and pencil
• Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
Maintaining Your Kit
After assembling your kit remember to maintain it so it’s ready when needed:
• Keep canned food in a cool, dry place.
• Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers.
• Replace expired items as needed.
• Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family’s needs change.
Kit Storage Locations Since you do not know where you will be when an emergency occurs, prepare supplies for home, work and cars.
• Home: Keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your
home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is kept.
• Work: Be prepared to shelter at work for at least 24 hours. Your work kit should include food, water and other necessities like medicines, as well as comfortable walking shoes, stored in a “grab and go” case.
• Car: In case you are stranded, keep a kit of emergency supplies in your car. Prepare Financially
• Part of being prepared is understanding your finances. Does your family have enough savings in case of an emergency? Get more info: www.ready.gov/financialpreparedness
• Anticipate initial out-of-pocket expenses for lodging, food, gas, and more after a disaster. Are you prepared?
• Floods are the nation’s most common and costly natural disaster, causing billions of dollars in damage each year. How are you prepared in case of a disaster? Plan now.
• The Emergency Financial First Aid Kit is a tool to help individuals and families at
all income levels collect and secure the documentation they would need in case disaster strikes.
• Businesses: purchase business-interruption insurance policies to help cover and protect against lost earnings that can occur following a disaster.
• Save. Save. Save. Your emergency savings can help you get life-saving items like food, shelter, and water in an emergency. Check your insurance coverage
• Snap photos of important documents & save in a secure place to access during an emergency.
• Hurricanes bring heavy rains that may cause flooding. Purchase flood insurance before the storm. https://www.fema.gov/ national-flood-insurance-program
• Are you covered for hurricane danges such as high winds & damage? Check your insurance policy ASAP.
• It takes 30 days for flood insurance to begin. Don’t wait until it’s too late! You will not be covered if the flood occurs during this 30 day waiting perior.
• Find out if you live in a flood prone area and how flood insurance can lessen the financial impact of a flood by visiting: www. floodsmart.gov.
• Owning a coastal home isn’t always a vacation, because it comes with a serious risk of flooding. Study up on flood insurance and find ways to protect your home.
Check on Your Neighbors
• Check in with neighbors to see how you can help each other out before and after a storm
• If you run to the store to grab a couple last minute supplies before a storm, check to see if your neighbor needs anything.
• Please share tips with your community for staying safe before, during, & after a hurricane: www.ready.gov/hurricane
• Get to know your neighbors before a storm or an emergency to help out in your community
• Almost half of Americans expect to rely on their neighbors after a disaster. Do you know yours?
The Basics of Raising Orchids in Florida
By Ryan Foster
Raising orchids in Florida presents a unique opportunity due to the state’s warm, humid climate, which closely mimics the natural environments of many orchid species. However, proper care and understanding of their specific needs are essential for successful cultivation.
Choosing the Right Orchid
Potting and Fertilization
Orchids (other than Epidendrums) do not grow in traditional soil. Instead, they thrive in a specialized orchid mix that includes bark, perlite, or sphagnum moss to promote drainage. Repotting should be done every one to two years to refresh the growing medium and accommodate growth.
Florida’s climate is well-suited for a variety of orchids, but the most commonly grown species include Phalaenopsis (moth orchids), Dendrobium, and Cattleya. These species thrive in warm temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor and lanai growing in Florida.
When selecting an orchid, consider your local conditions and your ability to provide consistent care. Moth orchids, for example, are relatively hardy and can tolerate the fluctuations in humidity common in many Florida regions. Cattleyas, often prized for their large, fragrant flowers, require more attention to light and air circulation.
Light and Temperature
Orchids are highly sensitive to light. In Florida, where the sun is intense, it is critical to ensure your orchids receive bright but indirect sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, while too little will stunt their growth. A screened porch or shaded outdoor area can be an ideal location.
Temperature also plays a significant role in orchid health. Most orchids prefer daytime temperatures between 70-85°F and nighttime temperatures no lower than 60°F. Florida’s climate generally supports this, but during cold spells or extreme heat, it may be necessary to move orchids indoors or provide additional shade. Orchids grow on every continent except Antarctica. They even grow in the snow.
Humidity and Watering
Orchids thrive in humidity levels between 50-70%, and Florida’s naturally humid air works to their advantage. However, it’s important to balance humidity with proper air circulation to avoid fungal growth. Orchids should be watered early in the day, allowing excess moisture to evaporate by evening.
Orchids prefer to dry out between waterings, so make sure not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. A good rule of thumb is to water when the potting mix feels dry to the touch. In Florida’s rainy season, outdoor orchids may not need additional watering, but during drier periods, regular irrigation is essential.
Fertilization is crucial for healthy orchid development, but it should be done sparingly. A balanced fertilizer (20-20-20) used at quarter-strength every two weeks during the growing season will provide the necessary nutrients without overwhelming the plant. Another combination which has been proven to work well in Cory Lake Isles is the use of organic Bone Meal, Blood Meal and Potash. Several hand spray orchid food varieties found on Amazon, have worked great in Cory Lake Isles also. As always, be certain to comply with any local seasonal regulations regarding fertilizers. With any choice, be certain the fertilizer chosen is organic.
Pest Management
Florida’s subtropical environment can attract pests such as aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. Regular inspection of leaves and flowers is important, and early detection of pests can prevent infestations. A mix or rubbing alcohol and Dawn dish soap can manage most pest problems effectively, without harming the plant. Blooming and Patience
Orchids typically bloom once a year, and when cared for properly, their blossoms can last for several weeks to months. Patience is key, as orchids may take several years to mature before producing their first bloom. They usually acclimate to their environment. Many people hang them in trees. It is important not to hang them in a “dirty type” tree. One example of a tree NOT to hang them in would be a Magnolia. If hanging them in a tree Palm, Mango and Pine trees are much better examples to consider.
Raising orchids in Florida can be a rewarding experience for any gardener. With the right combination of light, water, and care, these beautiful flowers will thrive and provide a lasting display of natural elegance.
All are welcome to join in a group I started for Cory Lake Isle residents. This group shares tips on raising plants and plant clippings among the members. To join the Flora and Fauna group, use the following link: bit. ly/3BiZ9Wr
By Aluna Michaels
Aluna's Zodiac
OCTOBER 2024
Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22) – Happy birthday Libra! Jupiter and Pluto help you heal childhood pain. In subtle ways, your faith was impacted by minor or major traumas and now you can make major strides in trusting the Universe, others and your deepest intuition! You can also get a high powered job offer and/or get a raise. These positive internal and external events can disrupt your relationship if it’s dysfunctional. Your partner needs to accept your new self-esteem and personal power!
Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21) – This month’s New and Full Moons, dig into your subconscious mind. Meditation helps you heal the root of physical issues, like anxiety, sleep problems, eating/substance challenges, and even autoimmune conditions. Writing in a journal helps these breakthroughs have more permanence, as will speaking with a trusted friend or therapist. With Pluto ready to enter Aquarius for good next month, open your heart for amazing life changes and accept those blessings!
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21) – You’ll have financial breakthroughs this month! It’s great to be easy-going, but the planets want to help you be disciplined with money. You can even meditate and see family, or even past-life patterns of financial issues. Find a trusted guide to help you deal with debt and start a budget that also give room for fun so you don't unconsciously resist the guidelines.. If partnered, you’ll have deeper intimacy, and if single, you can meet someone who resonates with you values, and is super sexy too!
Capricorn (Dec. 22 –Jan. 19) – It’s a powerful relationship month! If starting a new connection, it’ll be sizzling! But be sure
you also have healthy, trusting communication. Don’t compromise in that department, or else you’ll find yourself quickly annoyed and perhaps feel like their parent. In longterm bonds, you’ll heal old patterns. You can give the other person back their power they gave to you, and that balance will be very healing! Similar dysfunctional power issues get better at work, too!
Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18) – Stable finances are building up this month. However, you may need to have challenging conversations with others to assert yourself and set limits. Your intuition is clear and focused now, so trust it! Be sure to nurture your playful side. Dance, make art, play sports, be silly with kids and pets. You can also reinvigorate the romance in your partnership! Try new forms of meditation, yoga or spiritual study so you feel alive and vital in that area of life as well.
Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20) – You’ve been working hard on yourself for years, and now you’re seeing deep, lasting changes! Maintain healthy boundaries in all your relationships. Continue to care for your body and commit not to neglect it! Don’t avoid your finances. You should always be on top of your current status so you can build the prosperous future you deserve. Meditate on having the power to create the life you want. You needn’t feel victimized by others any longer!
Aries (March 21 – April 19) - The New and Full Moons can bring up childhood issues for healing. Take extra meditation time to focus on deep breathing and stress reduction. Regardless of what topics are stirring in your mind, you can feel pretty edgy. Exercise, practice yoga and eat well so you don't build up internal tension. You’ll be able to
find the roots of emotional triggers. You can also uncover energy and passion that’s been buried under discouragement.
Taurus (April 20 – May 20) – With this month’s New and Full Moons, be patient with yourself about meditation. Your mind (and body) can be super restless. Try movement based methods, like yoga or walking meditation. Pay attention to your dreams for clues about anger you’ve suppressed that needs to be unpacked, examined and dealt with. Be kind to your body, and be more aware of food choices, amounts and eating behaviors. Especially work to eliminate inflammatory foods.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20) – Jupiter turns retrograde in your sign, asking you to deepen spiritual practices. It’s ok to have an active mind. You can still meditate! Accept your many thoughts with empathy, not irritation. Do something with your hands, like “worry beads”, that engage part of your mind while you sit still. Also examine where you have inconsistencies in relationships. Be sure you don’t alter your true self to please someone else. You can even get a big raise or important job offer that you’ve worked on for a long time!
Cancer (June 21 – July 22) – It’s a powerful time for you to assert yourself in relationships, be they personal or professional. Meditate on your truth and how to best express it and stand by it. Also ponder life goals. Create plans and make small, steady steps in the direction of their fulfillment. Find friends who support you doing things for yourself who
can help keep you motivated and on track. You do so much for others, but it’s time to create balance and incorporate your desires and passions into your life!
Leo (July 23 –Aug. 22) – Mars is working with you for many months. Meditate on old resentments and frustrations, especially from the past two years. Write about your feelings to acknowledge them. Share them with a therapist or safe person who can guide you. Try yoga, breathing techniques or even vigorous exercise to move the energy out of your body. You’ll be more able to see your path forward and your intuition will be much more clear! You can get good news about work as well.
Virgo (Aug. 23 –Sept. 22) – Be sure to balance your romantic partnerships with friendships and other activities you love. It’s important to assert yourself with this month’s New and Full Moons. Remembering other aspects of yourself should increase passion in your relationship. If it creates arguments, the you’ve got lots to consider! Be patient at work, since an expected raise or promotion might take longer than you thought.
Aluna Michaels is a second-generation astrologer. She also holds a Masters in Spiritual Counseling and has been teaching and consulting for more than three decades. Her book “Spiritual Gifts of the 12 Astrological Signs” is now on Amazon in Kindle version and as an E-book on her website. Aluna is available for appointments in her home, by phone or Zoom. Call (727) 239-7179 (landline, so no texting!) or call/text (248) 583-1663 or visit www. alunamichaels.com
