Islander
Hillsborough County Solid Waste Collection Holiday Schedule for Cory Lake Isles
Regular Garbage Pick-Up Days: Wednesdays & Saturdays
Garbage Days Next Pickup Dates:
Wed, July 3, 2024
Saturday, July 6, 202
Recycle Days Next Pickup Dates: Wed, July 10, 2024
Yard Days Next Pickup Dates: Wed, July 10, 2024
REMINDER- Do not put your yard waste on the storm drains. Do NOT allow your lawn vendor to blow the leaf residue and grass clippings into the storm drains! This causes the storm drains to become occluded and creates flooding on the streets!
The Islander Newsletter for the community of Cory Lake Isles is produced by KEM Media Group and delivered monthly via email to all residents of Cory Lake Isles.
If you or your business would like to be included in The Islander, rates are as follows:
AD SIZE IMAGE AREA
Eighth 3.625” x 2.375” ------- $40
Quarter 3.625” x 4.875” ------- $60
Half 7.375” x 4.875” ------- $100
Full 7.375” x 9.875” ------- $150
Email us for more information about KEM Media's other publications and available discounts.
HELPFUL PHONE NUMBERS
To get trash can repaired/replaced https://bit.ly/3B0CCds
Report missed trash pick up https://bit.ly/4722CUS
Report illegal dumping https://bit.ly/44Grxf8
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
2023-202 4 BACK TO
SCHOOL DRIVE
Our Back-to-School Drive aims to equip children with the tools they need for success in school and life. We need backpacks, folders, and all the “usual” school supplies, and funds for extracurricular activities like—field trips, football games, homecoming, proms, and our Earn2Learn program.
Sadly, over 50% of foster children don’t graduate high school, and foster teens are typically 2 years behind academically. We aim to change that at Joshua House!
Our Earn2Learn program motivates foster youth to stay in school and improve their grades with incentives. It’s not just about rewards; it’s about teaching the value of education for a better life.
The new school year begins August 12th in Hillsborough County— AND WE NEED YOUR HELP!
How can you help?
On the back of this flyer is a list of school supplies and clothing that are needed the most.
Our Amazon Wish List: www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3SUITQAJQ9NN3?ref_=wl_share
Want to help, but don’t want to shop?
Make a donation to our Back to School Drive by scanning the QR code, or go to to: bit.ly/2024BackToSchool
$300 buys school clothes, one pair of shoes and school supplies for one child.
$250 buys school clothes and one pair of shoes for one child.
$50 pays for a backpack and school supplies for one child.
Or host a Back-to-School Drive at your office or in your neighborhood!
Please deliver any donations by Monday, August 5, 2024 to one of our
FLORIDACENTRAL CREDIT UNION
All Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco Branch Locations www.floridacentralcu.com/ connect/locations-atms.html
JOSHUA HOUSE DONATION CENTER 1515 Michelin Ct Lutz, FL 33548
M-F: 10am – 4pm or by appointment (813) 406-5694
HAND & STONE MASSAGE AND FACIAL SPA 13129 North Dale Mabry Highway Suite E Tampa, FL 33618
M-F 9am – 10pm S/S 9am – 9pm (813) 425-1713
HAND & STONE MASSAGE AND FACIAL SPA 1664 Bruce B Downs Boulevard Wesley Chapel, FL 33544 M-F 9am – 10pm S/S 9am – 9pm (813) 229-8700
SCRAPORIUM 16518 N Florida Avenue Lutz, FL 33549 (813) 269-7946
M/W/F: 10am – 3pm
T/R: 10am – 6pm Saturday: 10am – 5pm
Cory Lake Isles Community Welcomes New Security Partner: JCS Security
By Cynthia McIntyre
On June 30, the Cory Lake Isles Community Social Group hosted a well-attended town hall meeting to introduce our new security company, JCS Security. The event, held at the Beach Club, provided an excellent opportunity for residents to meet John Scanlon, the owner of JCS Security, and to learn about the enhancements being made by the CDD to our community’s security infrastructure.
John Scanlon outlined the comprehensive security measures that JCS Security is implementing. He emphasized the company’s commitment to ensuring the safety and peace of mind of all Cory Lake Isles residents. JCS will continue to provide guards at the gate as well as a roving security guard from 6pm to 6am. Residents will notice a different security vehicle on the streets of Cory Lake Isles. Some of the key improvements include radar detection of speeders, unmarked cars as needed, a drone for aerial surveillance as needed, en-
hanced patrol measures and the ability to call in the JCS emergency response team if necessary.
Residents were given the opportunity to ask questions and voice any concerns they had about the new security protocols. Mr. Scanlon addressed each query with professionalism and transparency, assuring homeowners that their safety is the top priority for JCS Security. He also provided insights into the training and expertise of the JCS Security team, highlighting their experience in managing community safety.
The open dialogue between the residents and Mr. Scanlon fostered a sense of trust and cooperation. Many attendees expressed their appreciation for the proactive approach taken by JCS via the town hall and ensuring that residents are wellinformed about the changes in security.
The meeting concluded with a round of applause for John Scanlon and the JCS Security team, along with a shared sense
of confidence in the enhanced security measures. The Cory Lake Isles Community Social Group thanks everyone who attended and contributed to the productive discussion.
Residents are to call the Cross Creek Gate if they have any security questions or concerns. The roving security guard will be dispatched from the Cross Creek Gate. That phone number is: 813-907-8400.
All residents should contact the CDD office to ensure that they have your current phone number so the security company can call you when you have a guest. If at anytime you are not notified of a guest, please call the CDD office (813-986-1031)) to report the problem so it can be investigated and steps can be taken so it does not occur again.
Together, let’s continue to make Cory Lake Isles a safe and secure place to live.
Factors that Can Decrease Home Values in Our Florida Community
By Cynthia McIntyre
For many of us, our homes represent not only a place of shelter but also a significant financial asset. We hope to build equity from an increased home value over time. As residents of a gated Florida community, it's essential to understand the factors that can influence the value of your homes. While Florida's real estate market often thrives, certain elements can impact property values negatively. By being aware of these factors, you personally can take proactive steps to maintain and even enhance the value of your home. However, we as a community must also take proactive steps.
Poor Maintenance and Curb
Appeal of homes:
Neglecting regular maintenance tasks such as lawn care, exterior painting, and roof repairs can significantly reduce the curb appeal of not only your property but all homes in the community. If homes in the community show neglect potential buyers may be deterred.
Rentals:
The presence of too many rental properties
can and does lower property values within a development. Owner-occupied homes often command higher prices due to the pride of ownership and the maintenance standards typically associated with homeownership. Some renters do not show the same care and therefore may neglect the regular maintenance and curb appeal. Statistics confirm that communities dominated by rental properties have decreased demand and lower resale values.
Neighborhood in Decline:
The overall condition of a neighborhood plays a significant role in determining property values. Factors such as or neglected public spaces or amenities can signal a neighborhood in decline, which can lower home values.
Economic Factors:
Economic downturns or job losses in the local area can lead to decreased demand for housing, resulting in lower property values. Additionally, an oversupply of homes in the market can drive prices down.
Homeowner Association Issues:
Disputes or mismanagement within a homeowner association (HOA) can negatively impact property values. Potential buyers may be wary of purchasing a home in a community with unresolved HOA issues. CDD and HOA fees and taxes that are higher than a similar surrounding community can also deter a potential buyer.
Zoning and Development:
Proposed changes in zoning regulations or nearby development projects can affect property values. For example, the construction of a new commercial development or homes of less value nearby, or within your own community, may lower residential property values.
By being proactive in addressing these potential issues, homeowners can work collectively to maintain and enhance the value of their homes and community as a whole. Regular maintenance, community involvement, and staying informed about local developments are essential steps in preserving property values in our Florida neighborhoods.
Building Community Through Tennis
By Molly Schwartz
As the vibrant colors of summer blossom around us, there is no better time to pick up a racket and hit the courts. Whether you are a seasoned player or just starting out, MJS Tennis is here to welcome you into a community bound by the love of the game.
MJS Tennis, founded on the principle of fostering community through tennis, offers a wide range of lessons tailored to all ages and skill levels. Located in the picturesque setting of the Cory Lake Isles Community, the MJS Tennis programs provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone, from the age of 3 years old to advanced adult and professional players. MJS Tennis is the only CDD approved Tennis Vendor for the residents of Cory Lake Isles.
One of the unique aspects of MJS Tennis is their commitment to making the sport accessible to all. There are no registration fees, and they provide all the necessary equipment, ensuring that financial barriers never hinder anyone’s ability to participate.
Moreover, their expert team is on hand to offer tennis stringing and racquet customization services, ensuring that each player’s equipment is perfectly suited to their game. The offer quick turnaround times when stringing and customizing racquets, and even pick up and deliver items right to your front door.
With the arrival of summer and the longer daylight hours courtesy of daylight savings, there is ample opportunity to immerse yourself in the joy of tennis. MJS Tennis offers classes for kids using transition balls, which allows young play-
ers to develop their skills with modified equipment and court sizes customized just for them, in a very supportive and positive environment. Additionally, they offer a women’s only class, recognizing the importance of providing spaces for everyone to feel comfortable and empowered on the court.
For those seeking personalized instruction, private lessons are available throughout the week, tailored to individual goals and aspirations. And for those eager to put their skills to the test in a friendly and competitive setting, Cory Lake Open play offers matches for juniors and adults alike.
As we look ahead to the Fall and school starting next month, MJS Tennis is gearing up for an exciting array of afterschool and weekend tennis programs. Whether you are looking to refine your tech-
nique, improve your fitness, or simply enjoy the camaraderie of fellow tennis enthusiasts, there’s something for everyone.
Summer is the perfect time to hone your skills and reignite your passion for tennis. Whether you’re a beginner taking your first steps on the court or a seasoned player seeking new challenges, MJS Tennis welcomes you to join us in embracing the thrill of the game. So grab your racquet, lace up your shoes, and let’s make this Summer a season to remember on the courts of Cory Lake Isles Community. Call 813-492-9591 to schedule your FREE trial lessons. MJS Tennis is excited to welcome new players into their Fall A Session starting August 12th, 2024.
Call now to reserve your spot! 813-492-9591
Trimming Palm Trees
Since the resident is responsible for trimming their own palm trees in Cory Lake Isles, this article is to provide guidance in the care and trimming of palm trees. Trimming palm trees is important for both aesthetic reasons and the health of the tree.
Determine If the Tree Needs to Be Trimmed
The first prep step is to determine whether your palm tree needs trimming. Palm trees don’t need much pruning, so only undertake this project to prevent safety hazards and to keep the palm tree healthy. Doing so for appearance alone could harm or even kill the tree. It’s also best to do this project in the springtime.
Consider trimming your palm tree for any of the following reasons:
• To remove dead, dying, broken, or diseased fronds
• To remove fruits, seeds, and flowers
• To eliminate a safety hazard
• To improve visibility
• To prevent damage to surrounding area
Here’s a general guide on how to trim palm trees properly:
Know When to Trim: Palms generally only need trimming for maintenance or to remove dead or dying fronds. It’s best to trim them in late winter or early spring before the growing season begins. Avoid trimming green fronds unless they’re dead or dying, as this can harm the tree.
Safety First: Before you start trimming, ensure you have the right safety equipment, including gloves, safety glasses, and sturdy footwear. If you’re dealing with tall palms, consider using a ladder or hiring a professional tree trimmer with proper safety equipment.
Identify Dead or Dying Fronds: Look for fronds that are brown, yellow, or wilted. These are the ones that need to be removed. Avoid trimming green fronds, as they are still producing energy for the tree. Prepare Tools: Use sharp pruning shears or a pruning saw for smaller palms and a handsaw or chainsaw for larger
ones. Make sure your tools are clean and sharp to make clean cuts and minimize damage to the tree.
Start from the Bottom: Begin trimming from the bottom of the tree and work your way up. This ensures that you don’t get hit by falling debris and allows you to safely reach higher fronds.
Trim Carefully: Trim fronds close to the trunk but be careful not to damage the trunk itself. Cut as close to the base of the frond as possible without cutting into the trunk. Avoid leaving stubs, as they can attract pests and diseases.
Be Mindful of Wildlife: Before trimming, inspect the tree for wildlife such as birds or bats that may be using it for shelter. Wait until they have vacated the tree before trimming to avoid harming them.
Dispose of Trimmings: Once you’ve finished trimming, dispose of the fronds properly. You can either compost them if they’re healthy or dispose of them according to local waste disposal guidelines. Do not place the fronds on the storm drains.
Regular Maintenance: Make trimming palm trees a regular part of your maintenance routine. Regular trimming helps keep the tree healthy and reduces the risk of damage from falling fronds during storms. How much to trim: The lowest palm fronds that hang over the sidewalk should be at least 10 feet from the ground. This will allow safe passage of pedestrians as well as bicycle riders.
Prune Flowers and Fruit: Some palm trees may flower or develop fruit, but these objects redirect nutrients from the main plant. You can use your hands to remove the flowers and use a serrated knife or pruning shears to cut away fruit and fruit stalks. Make sure to remove flowers and fruit stalks or fruit as soon as you notice them developing. If you’re unsure about how to trim your palm trees or if they’re particularly tall or large, consider hiring a professional tree trimmer to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.
Removing Ferns From Palm Trees
By Cynthia McIntyre
Removing ferns growing on palm trees can be a bit tricky, as you want to ensure you remove them without damaging the palm tree itself. Here are some steps you can follow:
Identify the Ferns: Before you start removing anything, make sure you’re certain which plants are ferns and which are parts of the palm tree. Ferns typically have distinctive fronds and a different growth pattern from palm trees.
Wear Protective Gear: Use gloves to protect your hands from any thorns or sharp edges on the palm tree. If you’re allergic to certain plants, wearing a mask might be a good idea as well.
Manual Removal: If the ferns are small and just beginning to grow, you might be able to pull them out by hand. Be gentle to avoid damaging the palm tree.
Trimming: For larger or more established ferns, you may need to trim them away from the palm tree. Use pruning shears or a small saw to carefully cut away the ferns, being sure not to damage the palm tree’s trunk or fronds.
Herbicide: If manual removal and trimming aren’t sufficient, you can consider using an herbicide. However, be very cautious when using herbicides around palm trees, as they can be sensitive to certain chemicals. Consult with a local gardening expert or nursery to find an herbicide that’s safe to use around palm trees.
Follow-Up Maintenance: Once you’ve removed the ferns, it’s essential to monitor the area regularly to ensure they don’t grow back. If you notice any new growth, promptly remove it to prevent the ferns from establishing themselves again.
Mulch or Weed Barrier: To prevent future growth of ferns or other unwanted plants around the palm tree, consider adding a layer of mulch or installing a weed barrier. This can help suppress weed growth and make maintenance easier in the long run.
Remember, the key is to be patient and thorough when removing ferns from palm trees. Take your time to ensure you’re not causing any harm to the palm tree itself, and consider seeking advice from local gardening experts if you’re unsure about the best approach for your specific situation.
CORY LAKE ISLES REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST & 11-YEAR RESIDENT
Jen Wiggins
“Working with Jen was an absolute delight! Her expertise in both selling our house and guiding us through the process of buying a new one simultaneously was truly remarkable. As first-time sellers, we greatly appreciated her support every step of the way. I wholeheartedly recommend Jen to anyone considering selling or buying a home. She made the entire experience smooth and stress-free. -Jordan J.”
Wiggins, REALTOR 813-539-1678 jwiggins@smithandassociates.com
Nonprofit Networking with a Side of Donations: New Tampa Rotary Gives Back
Part face-to-face nonprofit networking, part donation celebration—the annual Give Back Breakfast hosted by the Rotary Club of New Tampa packed the room. This year, the club hosted local and global nonprofits giving away $61,809 from its foundation annual fund.
“What’s significant is the number of collaborations and relationships built between the nonprofits during and after breakfast,” said Ken Guidera, 2023-24 club president. “Each nonprofit has a few minutes to explain what they do and how they plan to use the donation. That creates ideas. I heard the folks from Kennedy Cares making plans to meet later with OASIS Opportunities. These community leaders don’t often have the chance to meet like this.”
New Tampa Rotarians have supported OASIS Opportunities since three moms founded it in 2001. “New clothes and school supplies equals dignity,” said Dawn Shulman, OASIS executive director. Last year 60 to 65 percent of Hillsborough County Public School students were economically disadvantaged. This year it is 87 percent.
“Today's donation goes to help our Pop-up Shop which is our newest program. The mobile clothes closet makes sure that our high school students have all the clothing and the hygiene items they need to fit in with their peers, meet dress code, get to school every day and fully engage in their learning. We all know getting an education and that diploma is a kiddo's passport to choices in their life,” Shulman said.
The New Tampa Family YMCA is also addressing the increase in economically disadvantaged youth.
“All the money we raise for our YMCA each year goes back into the community as part of our Open Doors Program,” said Ryan Pratt, executive director. “We provide financial assistance to those in the community that may be in financial distress. About 35 percent of our members are on some sort of financial assistance. No one would know that when they come into our facility. The kids can participate in swim lessons, sports and summer camp. Parents can have a family membership taking care of their health and wellness while we watch their kids.”
Denny Locasio, owner of Impact Fitness, joined the Rotary Club of New Tampa After Hours Satellite group to give back to his community. His Heroes Adapt Foundation is using its donation to buy home cardio workout equipment for two veterans.
“This equipment is built for their wheelchairs so they can fit into it. That's the big thing. They can keep themselves healthy without
needing assistance from other people,” he said. Locasio trained in exercise science at USF and worked with the athletic department at USF. “Working with athletes, I've been around a lot of injuries. I’m transferring that learning to veterans. Working around their injuries and some of their limitations.”
The complete list of Rotary Club of New Tampa nonprofit partners who received donations during the 2023-24 Rotary year.
Cleft Lip and Palate Vocational Training Teams in Peru-Rotary Club of Venice-Nokomis (Global Grant)
Crisis Center of Tampa Bay
Evolve School of Learning
Fisher House
Ghana Service Projects-USF Rotaract
H20 for Life Burkina Faso Water Projects-White Bear Lake, MN
Rotary Club (Global Grant)
Helping Hands Food Pantry
Heroes Adapt
Hillsborough Literacy Council
Hurricane Idalia Disaster Relief-Rotary District 6890
Kennedy Cares Tampa Bay
Makumbi Orphanage-c/o Rotary Club of Harare Central
Maui Fire Disaster Relief-Rotary District 5000 Hawaii
Mission Smiles
New Tampa YMCA
OASIS Opportunities.
Pioneer Medical Foundation
Polio Plus-The Rotary Foundation
Project Dynamo
Rotary Camp Florida
Seminar 4 Tomorrow’s Leaders
Stay in Step Rehabilitation
Teen Impact
The Joshua House
The Rotary Foundation
USF Rotaract
CONTACT: Karen Mess Frashier, APR, Fellow PRSA
Rotary Club of New Tampa Communication Officer
kmf@AdvocateMarketingPR.com
M-813-375-2663
Hurricane's Are Coming
As we enter hurricane season, it's crucial for our community to be well-prepared to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents. Here are the top five ways to get ready for a potential hurricane:
1. Create an emergency plan:
• Having a well-thought-out emergency plan is the first step to staying safe. Discuss and practice your plan with all family members, covering:
• Know evacuation routes and destinations
• Develop communication methods in case of separation from your family
• Create emergency contacts and meeting points
2. Assemble an emergency kit that can sustain your family for at least 72 hours to include:
• Non-perishable food and water (1 gallon per person per day)
• Medications, first aid supplies, and hygiene products
• Flashlights, batteries, and a portable charger
• Important documents (stored in a waterproof container)
3. Secure your home:
• Installing storm shutters or boarding up windows
• Securing loose outdoor items (patio furniture, garden tools, etc.)
• Trimming trees and shrubs to prevent debris
4. Stay informed to keep up-to-date with the latest weather reports and advisories by utilizing:
• Local news channels and weather apps
• NOAA Weather Radio
• Alerts from local authorities
5. Plan for you pets to ensure they in your hurricane preparedness plans by having:
• Pet food, water, and medications
• A carrier or crate
• Up-to-date identification and medical records
By following these steps, you'll be better equipped to handle a hurricane, safeguarding both your family and property. Let’s work together to keep our community safe this hurricane season!
HOROSCOPES
Aluna's Zodiac
By Aluna Michaels
Cancer (June 21 – July 22) – Happy birthday Cancer! The New and Full Moons increase your confidence. You can also confront negative inner voices that bum you out! Make it your spiritual practice to cultivate selfcompassion. Rather than becoming “wimpy”, you’ll feel a deep security that comforts and empowers you! Surround yourself with friends who have positive thinking. You might even find a “gratitude partner” to keep your new energy going. Watch out for power games in relationships. You don’t need that junk!
Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22) – Be honest with yourself about lifestyle and eating habits. Be kind to your body with healthy food choices, adequate rest and stress reduction (yoga, deep breathing, meditation). These new habits can easily become a steady part of your daily routine, so get started now! You can start a relationship where you enjoy the same music, art and humor. Also, working with affirmations yields great results if you’re consistent with that practice.
Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22) – There’s so many great people to be with, so be willing to let go of situations burdened with ongoing power struggles, passive-aggression, or general meanness! Don’t ry to convince people you’re awesome, just be with the ones you don’t have to “win over”. Work with affirmations in your meditation, or even a selfhypnosis program while you sleep. You can pull up the roots of negative self-image at this time!
Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22) – You can have a major promotion at work, or a high paying new job! Strive for a healthy work/life balance. You can also have physical and mental health breakthroughs you’ve been
JULY 2024
seeking for months, or even years! These issues can have deep-seated roots from childhood, or even generations back in your ancestry. This new internal empowerment helps you have better relationships, be they romantic or “merely” social connections. You’ll feel included and appreciated!
Scorpio (Oct. 23 –Nov. 21) – Work with negative thinking during meditation time this month. The New and Full Moons put light on poopy patterns, and also clues to heal mental self-torment! Even though you’re private, open up to your partner and trusted friends about these struggles. The input you receive will provide amazing turning points. Let yourself open to the love that surrounds you! Sexy Mars also gives added passion to your love life.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21) – It’s fun to meet new people and start cool hobbies, but use this time to cultivate closer connections with people you already trust. Siblings, family members and long-time friends want some of your good energy! If you’re in a fairly new relationship, you’ll be bonding more deeply. Observe anxiety or restlessness when the closeness heats up. Intimacy won’t trap you, but it does challenge you to look inside yourself more deeply. You’ll also have financial breakthroughs by being honest about your budget and spending habits.
Capricorn (Dec. 22 –Jan. 19) – The New and Full Moons this month strengthen communication in relationships. You’ll be able to tackle difficult issues with grace. Mostly, you’ll feel appreciative and loving. Having healthy conflict resolution is sexy and builds fanatic emotional and physical intimacy! Mars gives you the enthusiasm to take good care of yourself. You can
start a new exercise program. You’ll be inspired to eat well. Praise your body for being awesome!
Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18) – You can start a new relationship with someone super sexy, and who’s also thoughtful and sweet! If already partnered, you’ll have a love renaissance together. Also, caring for your body will have wonderful effects on your mood! Healthy food choices, fun exercise and meditation time will perk up your spirits. If you’re having issues with someone, pay attention to your dreams for ingenious clues about how to solve the problems.
Pisces (Feb. 19 –March 20) – Keep centered in your spiritual growth, since that’s how you feel solid and confident in your identity. Meditation and yoga are spiritual, but so are expressing yourself authentically with art, dance, clear communication and taking action toward your goals! Surround yourself with people who celebrate you being you! Minimize situations where you have to hide your interests, talents and natural self. You’ll also feel healthier, both mentally and physically. You can even attract more money!
Aries (March 21 –April 19) — Instead of being emotionally reactive, follow intuitive guidance from meditations or dreams. Your subconscious gives you insights you can’t see when you’re impatient. Work issues can be solved this way as well. Even taking a few deep breaths can give space for a new idea to slip into your mind. Observe your tendency
to be drawn to people with lots of trauma and conflict. Explore how sexy it can be not to fight so much or not constantly put out someone else’s fires!
Taurus (April 20 – May 20) – The New and Full Moons want you to connect with old friends. Surround yourself with people who appreciate you, and with whom there’s a good balance of giving and receiving. Prioritize meditation time. Tuning into your heart each day is a gift you give yourself, and you deserve it! You nurture other people so often and so well, and you’ve got to put yourself at the top of the list. Also, Mars changes signs and can bring breakthroughs around money!
Gemini (May 21 –June 20) – Mars is in your sign, bringing enthusiasm and energy! You can start work projects or attract a spicy new relationship! You can dedicate yourself to a exercise or strength training routine. Career opportunities that you’ve been striving for come your way, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised about the money that’s offered! You’ll also feel happy in general. Take advantage of social invitations. It’s also a great time to do any creative writing. Short day trips will be super fun too!
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
As a resident of Cory Lake Isles, it’s essential to grasp the intricacies of community governance structures. Two common terms you'll often encounter are CDD (Community Development District) and POA (Property Owners Association). While both play crucial roles in maintaining our community's infrastructure and standards, they operate differently. Let’s delve into the distinctions between the two to better understand their functions and responsibilities. Community Development District (CDD) CDDs are a type of government entity with a main purpose to plan, finance, construct and operate community-wide infrastructure and amenities for residents to enjoy. CDDs must adhere to Florida’s Sunshine Laws so all meetings are open to the public and held in public settings. Cory Lake Isles has a CDD that is governed by five CDD Supervisors. Each of these Supervisors are elected to a four-year term. The election of these Supervisors takes place with the general state/federal elections held in November of each year. Three of the CDD Supervisor seats are up for election in November 2024 and two are up for election in 2026. The CDD Supervisors receive (by law) a $200 stipend for each meeting they attend.
The Cory Lake Isles developer, Gene Thompson, took out bonds to create and pay for the infrastructure and amenities in Cory Lake Isles. Those bonds are then paid back by the residents of the community that are able to enjoy all the amenities the community has to offer. Homeowners living in Cory Lake Isles are assessed through their annual property tax bill in the form of a non-ad valorem assessment. A portion of the CDD fee is the actual repayment of Municipal Bonds, while the other part of the fee goes towards operation and management fees of Cory Lake Isles and county taxes. Most of these bonds in Cory Lake Isles are paid off but there continue to be some outstanding bonds for homes in the newer sections of Cory Lake Isles. While the municipal bond fees can dissipate, the operation and management fees, maintenance fees, security, and utilities will always be required. Therefore, there will always be a CDD in Cory Lake Isles. You can look at your tax bill to determine if you personally have any bonds left to pay off as well as your annual CDD fee.
CDD fees fund the following:
• Infrastructure such as roads, sidewalks, street lights
• Utilities for amenities
• Community Amenities (pools, parks, gym, clubhouse, etc.)
• Sewer and Water
• Landscaping
• Security
• General Maintenance
• Repayment of loans/bonds
Here’s a breakdown of key features of the Cory Lake Isles CDD:
1. Infrastructure Development and Maintenance: CDDs are responsible for financing, constructing, and maintaining essential infrastructure within the community. This includes roads, utilities, drainage systems, parks, our lake, and recreational facilities.
2. Funding Mechanism: CDDs have the authority to issue tax-exempt bonds to fund infrastructure projects. These bonds are repaid by property owners within the district through special assessments on their property tax bills.
3. Board of Supervisors: The CDD is governed by a board of five supervisors, who are elected by the registered voters within the district. One does not need to be a property owner to vote for the CDD Supervisors. However, they must be registered to vote and they must live in Cory Lake Isles. The board oversees the CDD’s operations, budget, management of the community, maintenance, security, and infrastructure projects.
4. Public Meetings: CDDs are required to hold public meetings where residents can voice concerns, provide input on proposed projects, and stay informed about District activities. Cory Lake Isles CDD holds monthly meetings in the Beach Club.
5. Limited Regulatory Authority: While CDDs have the power to enforce certain rules related to infrastructure and common areas, their authority is primarily focused on managing and maintaining community assets rather than regulating individual personal property. The CDD’s responsibility ends at your property line.
6. Amenities Management: Our CDD oversees the Cory Lake Isles amenities such as swimming pools, clubhouses, tennis courts, volley ball courts and playgrounds.
7. Staff and Management of the CDD: The District Management Company hired by the Cory Lake Isles board of CDD Supervisors is Breeze Management. We have a full time Facility Manager and an Office Administrator with 2 part-time Office Assistants and Pool Attendants. Their offices are located in the Beach Club.
Property Owners Association (POA)
The POA, or Property Owners Association, is a private non-profit organization established by the Developer of Cory Lake Isles, Gene Thompson. Here’s what you need to know about our POA:
1. Property Maintenance and Rules Enforcement: Our POA is responsible for enforcing the covenants, rules and regulations, architectural guidelines, and maintenance standards. This includes everything that
applies to your home including landscaping requirements, exterior home appearance guidelines, noise restrictions, etc. The POA has hired a property management company (Condominium Associates) to assist with these responsibilities. Our full time LCAM (Licensed Community Area Manager) is an employee of Condominium Associates.
2. Membership and Dues: Membership in the POA is mandatory for homeowners within the community, and payment of POA dues is required to fund their operational expenses. Failure to pay dues can result in penalties or restrictions.
3. Board of Directors: The POA is governed by the five board of directors, who are elected by homeowners to serve a one-year term. The board establishes and enforces rules, manages finances, and makes decisions on behalf of the association. The POA board meets monthly in the Beach Club.
POA fees fund the following:
• The management company fees
• Legal fees
• Insurance
• Office expenses
Understanding the Distinction
While both CDDs and POAs serve similar purposes in maintaining community standards and amenities, they operate under different legal frameworks and have distinct roles and responsibilities. Our CDDs focus is primarily on infrastructure development and financing. The actions of the CDD Supervisors are governed by the Florida Statutes. The POA is responsible for personal property maintenance, covenant enforcement, establishing and maintaining consistent community design standards and community management. The POA actions and responsibilities are governed by the Cory Lake Isle covenants.
In Cory Lake Isles, both entities work in tandem to ensure our community remains vibrant, well-maintained, and governed effectively. By understanding the roles of CDD and POA, residents can actively participate in community affairs, contribute to decisionmaking processes, and help shape the future of our beloved Cory Lake Isles. If you have further questions or would like to learn more about how CDD and POA function in Cory Lake Isles, don't hesitate to reach out to the respective boards or the management companies. Their contact information can be found on The Islander “Contacts” page. Together, we can continue to build and sustain a thriving community we're proud to call home. •
