Save these Dates
February 2 4 11 14 17 17
Groundhog Day Golden Eagle Board Meeting, 7pm Open Meeting, 7 pm @Bradfordville School House Valentine’s Day President’s Day Killearn Commons Board Meeting, 7pm
March “The Killearn Lakes ‘Lakes View’ Magazine is not partnered or affiliated with any other publications. KLHOA Board and Staff request you please support the advertisers who support your neighborhood.”
2014 Board of Directors
4 9 17 17 20
Golden Eagle Board Meeting, 7pm Daylight Savings Time St Patrick’s Day Killearn Commons Board Meeting, 7pm Spring Equinox
(Elected by general membership)
Directors Trina Searcy, President Tom Martineau, Treasurer Joe Barnett, Director Mark Worley, Director
Mark Reichert, Vice President Joanie Trotman, Secretary Dan King, Director
Administrative Staff Nancy C. Johnson Anne Marshall Gregory Durant Erin Murphy
Operations Director, Bookkeeper & Editor Office Manager Field Manager Assistant Editor, Assistant Office Manager
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. T: 850-668-3231 | F: 850-894-1477 E: Admin@killearnlakeshoa.org 7110 Beech Ridge Trail, Tallahassee FL, 32312 Corporate Records are available upon written request.
www.KillearnLakesHOA.org If you haven’t already, register your information with our NEW website if you wish to continue to receive resident email alerts from the association office. Directions to do so are directly beside the registration box located on the ‘Contact Us’ page. Thank you!
Cover Photo Contest Photographer: Nacene Prchal
Our February cover photo was provided by Nacene Prchal. Nacene’s photo is of the wildflowers that were planted at the front of the Killearn Lakes Plantation entrance (Kinhega Drive and Thomasville Road) last spring. Hopefully our wildflower bed gave you a warm welcome home every day, as they did Nacene. Did you know that your photography could be showcased on our cover? If you have a photo you would like to submit for consideration, simply send it to admin2@killearnlakeshoa.org. All submitted photos should be at the highest available quality {at least 300dpi}. Entries will be reviewed by the Editor, Assistant Editor, and a Board Member. The selected photo will appear on an upcoming issue of the “Lakes View” Magazine. It would be helpful if you could share a personal story along with the photo. Call our office at (850) 668-3231 if you have any additional questions. We look forward to “showcasing” your photo submissions!
Important Phone Numbers
Fire Department Dispatch (non-emergency situations only)
891-4310
Talquin Electric (ex: Light out on your street) (Bradfordville office):
893-6853
Outages (24-hour service):
(1-888) 802-1832
Leon County Sheriff ’s Office Dispatch:
922- 3300
Leon County Public Roads (Limbs & Trees on KL roads):
606-1400
CALL BEFORE YOU DIG:
(1-800) 432-4770
Animal Control
606-5400
Leon County Mosquito Control
606-1400
Waste Management
574- 3000
Leon County Storm Water Questions:
606-1400
Stay Connected with Killearn Lakes. Like our Facebook page Killearn Lakes Homeowners and follow us on Pintrest and Twitter @KLHOA.
“
“
The people who succeed the most are the people who have failed the most, because they are people who have tried the most.
Editor’s Note
– ANONYMOUS
I
was so happy to see the “Decorate Me” sign again last December on, not one but three, trees in the neighborhood at Deerlake and Willow Run. As I was driving home one evening I noticed a young mom and her daughter with boxes of shiny garland adorning another tree near the Deerlake Road and Birschbach Way intersection. I was not where I could pull over or even take a photo at the time, but to the mom and her daughter, thank you! Hopefully, residents will continue next year with what you started. You have to admit, it immediately brings a smile to your face when you pass by the beautiful trees on your way home. Your homeowner’s association hosted a Holiday Open House for residents at the association office on December 20th. This was our first Open House and we had great food, holiday punch and mulled spiced cider. We also exchanged a few gifts from under the tree. Christmas carolers from Epiphany Lutheran Church entertained us and everyone joined in with the joyous singing. All in all, we had a good turnout! As you can see from the photos, many of you missed a great party! Our February issue is chocked full of information. Your treasurer has published the yearend financial report in order for all dues-paying members to see just where their money is spent. Perhaps you will understand and appreciate how difficult the job can be when budgeting time comes around. Expenses increase as the money is spent to maintain our large community with all its parks and lakes. As the budgeting process continues, we at the office and your Board of Directors maintain the mindset that, “This is not our money but your money”! It is money you have entrusted to the board and the association staff to manage as judiciously as we would our own. (See page 12). We have also heard from many of you regarding the new waste removal service hired by Leon County BCC, Waste Pro. Mr. Robert Mills, with Leon County’s Waste Management Division, will be available to answer your questions regarding Waste Pro at our February Quarterly Open Member Meeting. The meeting will be held on February 11th at 7pm. Once again we will be convening at the Historic Bradfordville Schoolhouse off Bannerman Road behind Wendy’s. Please come with your questions and concerns. Also, the latest winner of the “Lake Friendly Yard” will be presented by board member, Joe Barnett, with a Lake Friendly yard sign and gift certificate for $100.00 from a local nursery. Congratulations again, Steven & Karen Stolting! This year we would like to welcome back a few of our magazine article providers: “Cyndy’s Ruminations” with an exciting book review, “Comfort Keepers” offers great tips for our seniors and Q&A from Your Favorite Builder returns with more helpful insights for you home DIYers. Until next time, please enjoy our latest edition.
Nancy C. Johnson Operations Director, Bookkeeper & Editor Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
3
Bryan's Brief Happy New Year to all! I’m proud to begin another year representing District IV on the Board of County Commissioners. Leon County is a very special place to live and raise our families and that's because of you, the great people who make up this community. I know 2014 will bring great things our way and I can't wait to share them with you.
Solid Waste Collection – Collection of waste by Waste Pro got off to a rocky start due to misinformation they received on routes. They expected to serve less than 23,000 and to date are serving up to 27,000. If you are having problems, please call Waste Pro at 606-1899. If your concern is not addressed, call our Solid Waste staff at 606-1800. As always, I’m here too if you need me.
Killearn Lakes Stormwater Project Improvements – Work will begin in Unit 3 in the Southbrook area in February and construction will begin near Bull Headley. The project will take approximately one year. The HOA has a graphic of the areas we’re working and staff will have biweekly progress meetings with the contractor and provide updates to the HOA as the project moves forward.
Bannerman Rd Widening Project and Thomasville/Proctor Rd Recreation Property – Both projects are still included in Tier I on the Sales Tax Committee’s proposed project list. We lost $2 million on the Park project, but with the remaining $10 million, we can go a long way in developing a park we can all be proud of. A workshop is scheduled for February 11 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. to discuss the Sales Tax Committee’s Final Report and Recommendations. For more information, go to http://cms.leoncountyfl.gov/Home/LeonCounty SalesTaxCommittee.
February 2014
Amendments were also approved to maps for zoning, etc. See agenda item 30 at http://cms.leoncountyfl.gov/coadmin/agenda/view2.asp? meeting_date=1/21/2014&item_type=0
Beech Ridge/Kinhega Roundabout – Staff met with the Killearn Lakes Homeowners Association Board January 9th regarding the proposed addition of the two east bound lanes and they are now moving forward with design level plans. They’ll report back to the Association once the plans are available to seek their input. Killearn Acres FEMA Map Revisions – Staff is continuing to review the FEMA maps in the Killearn Acres area to correct the maps based on actual flood elevations. This will not be a timely process. Capital Project Implementation Program – the Commission approved the use of a portion of the Local Option 5th Cent Fuel Tax for the construction of sidewalks and intersection improvements. District IV projects include the extension of the sidewalk along Timberlane Rd from Deerlane to Woodley; the 4 lane extension on Bannerman Rd 900 feet to Quail Commons; and the re-alighment for sight distance of Miccosukee and Miles Johnson. For more information, go to Agenda Item 26 at http://cms.leoncountyfl.gov/coadmin/agenda/view2.asp?meeting_dat e=1/21/2014&item_type=0 I consider it an honor and a privilege to serve as your District IV Commissioner and I commit to you that I will continue to do the best job I can in representing you and our community. As always, I welcome your input and appreciate all of you who act as my eyes in the District. Many of the improvements we’ve already made, or are currently working on, came from citizen suggestions or observations. As you plan for your neighborhood/homeowner’s association meetings, please let me know the dates and times so that I may join you. Please don’t hesitate to call me if you have any questions or concerns, deslogeb@leoncountyfl.gov or 606-5364.
Proposed Bannerman/Thomasville Rd Development – The Board approved a Settlement Agreement between the County and the owners of specific parcels which are generally located between Kinhega Drive and Bannerman Road (and known as the “DeSantis Property”). .For more information, see agenda item 29 at the following: http://cms.leoncountyfl.gov/coadmin/agenda/view2.asp?meeting_dat e=1/21/2014&item_type=0 4
Lakes View / Issue 63 / February 2014
Bryan Desloge
Leon County Board of County Commissioners
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
5
Lake Friendly Yard W
hen I see a “Lake Friendly” yard and meet the owners they are always very interesting, friendly, and they all love Killearn Lakes. This month’s “Lake Friendly” yard award goes to Jan and Guy Blue. While meeting with Mrs. Blue she repeated several times, “I am real lucky to have so many nice trees. I’ve got all kinds of guys!” The Blue’s yard looks like a state park forest, which her husband, Guy, a botanist, who was last year’s “forester of the year” in Jackson County, really loves. I learned that Jan is originally from Chattanooga, and that she grew up there when the pollution was so bad they had to turn the lights on during the day. She later ended up at FSU for grad school, where she met Guy. In their yard you can find a big white oak, which is famous for giant acorns. This is the tree the Turkey Wildlife Federation gives away to help feed our wild turkeys. She also had a big beautiful black gum tree, which can live over 100 years and produces flowers and fruits that are great food for wildlife. Next to Mrs. Blue’s driveway was a tall long leaf pine intermingled with our much more common Loblolly pine. She has several native flame azaleas and two healthy Leyland cypress trees that she bought already decorated from Native Nursery.Guy has discovered rare native striped gentian, only found in 3-4 counties, and also found an uncommon butterfly-weed in their shady forest floor. Other plants that can be found in their forest include easy to grow oakleaf hydrangeas, hard to grow bay berries, a big blossomed Ashe Magnolia, 6
Lakes View / Issue 63 / February 2014
By Joe Barnett
and a great smelling anise with red flowers, which are supposedly deer resistant! Jan later pointed out to me a bare spot where she has planted native trout lilies. If you ever get a chance, visit the trout lily park near Cairo where the entire forest floor fills with beautiful flowers a couple weeks a year. We really do live in a nature paradise! Years ago, urban forester, Stan Rosenthal, pointed out to Jan pine trees with rust fungus that needed to be removed. After she removed the trees she was amazed at how fast her forest “re-shaded.” The shade helped cool her home so much that when she called Talquin for an energy audit they told her that they don’t do audits for vacant homes! Talquin eventually did the energy audit and recommended more energy efficient windows, which phenomenally reduced her bill even more. Another advantage to Jan’s forest is how infrequently she has to water it. She said she basically doesn’t have a water bill. Her forest is maintenance free.
Instead of having to mow grass with a noisy lawn mower she gets to watch her birds. She uses a mister from Native Nursery to help attract birds. It uses very little water, similar to the drip used to keep indoor faucets from freezing in winter. Her list of visitors include black and white warblers, cardinal wrens, Carolina Chickadees, ruby crowned kinglet, American Redstart, Barred owls, Pilleated and Red-
Her forest is maintenance FREE. bellied woodpeckers, a White-breasted Nuthatch that goes down trees upside down, and as we talked a Downy Woodpecker ate next to us! Before I left, I asked Mrs. Blue what changes she has witnessed in the neighborhood since she moved here in 1988. She said there used to be a lot more yards like hers. Before all the trees were cut down for lawns and curbs were built for “uphill” homes there weren’t storm water and flooding problems. The increased storm water flow has caused erosion damage and now most everyone needs a curb directing dirty water down the streets to our once clean lakes. Jan also mentioned how she has noticed a lot of invasive coral ardisia spreading around Pine Hill Lake. She has offered to help any interested neighbors in removing this very invasive plants that, among others, are taking over our “nature paradise.” Jan can be reached at 668-7440 or email at doctorsyntax@outlook.com Killearn Lakes started the “lake friendly” yard program to reduce costly storm water pollution of our lakes, promote wildlife friendly yards, and stop the out of control spread of invasive plants. When I moved here in 1999, wild taro, the elephant ear looking plant was only found in one yard on Pine Hill Lake. It has spread completely around Pine Hill and Petty Gulf, requiring Killearn Lakes Homeowners Association has to spend a LOT of dues money on invasive plant control! For these and other reasons we congratulate Jan and Guy for being good neighbors as our latest “lake friendly” yard winners. They will be recognized at the May quarterly meeting and will receive $100 gift certificate and a sign for their Lake Friendly Yard. If you have or see a yard that may qualify please contact me, Joe Barnett. The yard does not have to be on a lake! Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
7
Being a Responsible Pet Owner By Erin Murphy
We’ve all been there. You’re at work when your phone rings, and it’s a neighbor, or worse, Leon County Animal Control, telling you that your dog was found wandering around the neighborhood. Gates are accidentally left unlocked, holes are dug, and things just happen; but it’s important to be mindful of the safety of your furry, fourlegged friend. Recently, there have been several calls to the HOA regarding dogs running loose in the neighborhood. One instance resulted in an attack on another dog that was being walked by a resident. In light of these calls, we at the association would like to remind you of some of the animal ordinances in Leon County. Sec. 4-35. Running at large. (a) Generally prohibited. It shall be unlawful for any animal to run or remain at large on any street, road, alley, park or other public place. A street, road, alley, or other place shall be considered a public place, without respect to maintenance authority or ownership, if the area is under common ownership or control, or is generally accessible to the public. (b)[Private property.] It shall be unlawful for any animal to be on private property without the consent of the property owner whether or not the animal is under direct control. (c) [Tethering.] It shall be a violation of this article for the owner or keeper of any animal to tie, chain or otherwise tether such animal in such a manner that it has access to public property or the property of another without consent of that property owner. (d)[Responsibility.] The owner or keeper of any animal found running or remaining at large shall be responsible for any violation of this article. There are some things we can do to keep our pets safe at home. The most effective way is to keep your dog inside while you are not home. If you are afraid that your dog will destroy furniture, chew up your shoes, or use the bathroom on your nice rug, try keeping them in a garage or somewhere they won’t be able to cause much trouble. If keeping your dog inside is absolutely out of the question, make sure you fill in holes and gaps in your fence and make sure your dog has a covered area they can take shelter under. Please be mindful of these ordinances and save yourself a fine. The ordinances are beneficial to you, your neighbors, and most important, the four legged member of your family.
8
Lakes View / Issue 63 / February 2014
A Whale of a Tradition February 28th marks 40 years of a Tallahassee tradition—the Junior League of Tallahassee’s (JLT) annual Whale of a Sale. Since the JLT hosted the first sale in 1974, the Whale of a Sale has grown to be Tallahassee’s largest garage sale, featuring great deals on new and used furniture, clothes, housewares, toys, sporting goods, appliances, books, music and more. It’s also the JLT’s signature fundraiser, raising an annual average of $40,000 that is distributed 100 percent back to the community through the League’s community projects. Whale of a Sale functions as both a community project and fundraising event, providing highquality items to the community at a low cost, while also raising funds that go directly to the community. “The success of the Whale of a Sale is directly tied with the support of the Tallahassee community and the many corporate partners and sponsors who support the mission and activities of the League — including AMWAT Moving, Warehousing and Storage,” said Kate Wasson, 2013-2014 JLT President.
AMWAT, the JLT’s longest-running sponsor, supports the League and the Whale of a Sale year-round by offering the storage, transportation, logistical help and other support integral to the success of the fundraiser. The 2014 Whale of a Sale takes place Friday, February 28 and Saturday, March 1, 2014, in the former Dillard’s wing of the Tallahassee Mall. In honor of 40 years of dedication to raising money for our community projects, the JLT will be hosting a birthday party for the Whale on Friday, February 28, which will include a Food Truck Bash. On Friday night attendees can also enjoy early shopping. Admission to the Bash is free, and preview shopping tickets are just $5. On Saturday, the sale continues from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., and shopping admission is just $1. If you would like to schedule a large-item pick-up or donate items, please email whale.chairs@gmail.com with your address and phone number so we can add your name to the list.
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
9
Universal Design for your
Kitchen
By Mark Worley
Gone are the boring days of universal design, UD, thanks to the use of broader practices rather than the stick barrier-free designs of old. Todays’ universal design seeks to accommodate individuals with not only temporary and permanently reduced abilities, but also the entire emerging family. When designing a UD kitchen you need to keep in mind the capabilities of each person utilizing the area. Many circumstances demand that your design incorporate family members from young children to aging grandparents. The following guidelines will accommodate this broad spectrum of ages and abilities. Counter heights and counter edges – Consider a table height work area for children, people in wheelchairs and those that find sitting easier to perform daily task. For taller people and those with back problems incorporate higher counter tops. Taller counter tops can be anything over 36” and should be determined by the individual. Take into account the structural integrity of any overhanging counter top, such as a bar, to accommodate the added pressure of someone’s weight when used as an aid to get up from a chair. Counter top edges with a contrasting color make for a visual aid to determine where one surface ends and another begins. Flooring – Select slip-resistant floors such as textured tiles and distressed wood. Avoid any uneven floor heights where transitions are made from one material to another. Consider contrasting colors to define one surface from another. It’s the same idea mentioned above concerning counter edge transitions. Faucets and hardware – Choose faucets with levers that can be operated with your fist, and avoid faucets with controls
that require finger strength or dexterity to operate. Cabinet pulls and knobs should be large enough for fingers to grab, while avoiding petite and smooth finishes. There are touch-latch options available for doors and drawer, or European style options that make doors longer than the cabinet to create a lip where you could put your hand behind the door to operate. Appliances – Consider raising dishwasher 6 to 12 inches from the floor by adding a drawer below. You could also try putting two dishwasher drawers side by side to achieve the same washing capacity. Some refrigerators are extremely difficult to open if someone has limited upper body strength, and should be avoided. Creative options include the use of smaller refrigerators with lighter doors or refrigerator drawers. Microwave ovens are most often placed too high to be used by children or those in a wheelchair. The installation of a microwave drawer solves this problem with accessibility for all members of the home. Wall ovens mounted side-by-side at 30” above the floor, rather than the traditional stacked method, is recommended. Lighting – The use of rocker style switches work best over the standard toggle switch. Separate your lighting into different groups (general, under-cabinet, task and decorative) so you can meet the various needs of your family. Dish storage – The bottom shelf of the upper wall cabinet is the most accessible to the average woman. Utilizing base cabinet drawer as dish storage creates more accessibility for elderly, children, shorter people, and people in a wheelchair. When possible, install the upper cabinets on top of the counter tops, thus allowing more access and storage area. As you can see, many solutions are just rearranging what you already have. Putting a little more thought into the design process will result and enhance the daily kitchen use for all members of the family. Mark S. Worley GMB is the only Graduate Master Builder in Tallahassee and one of only 13 statewide as recognized by the National Association of Home Builders. You can reach him at mark@worleyconst.com or at 850-668-3438.
10
Lakes View / Issue 63 / February 2014
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
11
Recapping 2013: How We Spent Your Money Looking Ahead to 2014 and Beyond: How We Plan to Spend Your Money By Tom Martineau, KLHOA Board Treasurer
My first year as your treasurer was not a walk in the park. Nor do I ever expect future years to be just a fun stroll. Money is never easy. Here is why:
Reality Versus the Budget in 2013 As I wrote in this magazine a year ago, your Board of Directors knows that the vast majority of the money taken in by the Killearn Lakes Homeowners Association is “Your Money.” We spend this money in pursuit of one overriding goal: to help all of us protect and enhance property values in Killearn Lakes Plantation. A byproduct of this effort should be that living here is made enjoyable. Your Staff and Board try their best to be governed by this goal in every action they take. At the end of 2012, I worked with Dick Thoma, our outgoing treasurer, on a budget for 2013. He was leaving the Board and the treasurer position after twelve years because he was dying of cancer. I had served as his understudy for over a year, being trained to succeed him in 2013. Dick and I based the 2013 budget on levels of funding that seemed to make sense at the end of 2012. We were both aware that a budget is intended to be an estimate of future income and expenses, based on prior experience and future trends and expectations. Here is how our budget estimate stacked up to reality at the end of 2013: We projected a total income of $535,300, based on levels from prior years. We underestimated our income for 2013 by $18,428.65, roughly 3.4%. Our actual income was 553,728.65. This income above budget came about largely because your Staff and Board worked hard to collect past debts, plus interest and other fees. It was fortunate that our income was higher than budgeted because our expenses were also higher than we had estimated. In our 2013 budget, we projected our expenses at $530,500, and allowed for a reserve of $4,800, to balance against our projected income of $535,300. We were faced with three major 2013 expenses that we had not fully foreseen: 1. Our legal expenses were slightly less than two and one half times our budgeted amount: $99,000 versus the budgeted $40,000. Please read the article by Susan Harnden, our Board’s attorney, describing the negotiations and other activities our Board Members had not expected to encounter this past year.
12
Lakes View / Issue 63 / February 2014
2.
The roof of the Homeowners Association’s building on Beech Ridge Trail developed an unexpected and somewhat catastrophic leak. This resulted in the need for a complete roof replacement, plus the repair of collateral water damage inside the building. Our building maintenance budget of $10,000 was exceeded by $9,422.59. It became clear that the roof in question should have been scheduled for replacement in this or earlier budgets, but was not sufficiently evaluated. We are taking steps in the future to monitor and preventatively maintain all of the Association’s property to avoid, as much as possible, an unexpected and costly failure such as this. 3. Our fish, wildlife and lakes budget of $15,000 was exceeded by $8,195.30. Your Association has been aware that the large net used for decades to corral fish for the annual Kids’ Fishing Contest had deteriorated to the point of uselessness. To hold the contest in 2014, a new net was essential. The Association paid for half of the net’s cost in 2013, and the other half is included in the budget for 2014. In addition, the Association bought a pre-owned trailer where the net can be properly hung to dry, and where it can be transported with much less wear and tear. Other higher expenses came from a greater than budgeted need to restock fish in our lakes. The restocking is not a vain gesture to simply foster the enjoyment of fishing for our members: the fish are needed to maintain an ecological balance. Without the fish, more expensive and potentially harmful chemical poisons would need to be employed to control vegetation that would eventually choke the lakes. Our lakes are shallow, and we need to spend time and money to maintain them. Consequently, our bottom line for 2013 reads as follows: we spent about 6.4% over the estimated expenses, and $18,278.03 above the Association’s actual 2013 income. Income: $553,728.65 Expenses: 572,006.68 (about 6.4% over the budgeted amount of $535,300) Net Income: -18,278.03
Budget Goals for 2014 and Beyond As a consequence of the 2013 fiscal experience, your Board of Directors has devised the following guiding principles as budgeting goals for 2014 and beyond: 1. The Association will not borrow money to bring expenses in line with income. If an emergency above and beyond the Association’s reserve funds should occur, the Board of Directors may consider borrowing against the equity in the Association’s building, which is not encumbered by a mortgage. Or the board may decide on a “special assessment” per property as allowed by the Covenants. 2. The Association will not deplete its reserves to avoid raising homeowner assessments. If a justifiable dues increase is not acceptable but needed to maintain current service levels, a priority list will be established of what the Association shall forego and in what order to remain in the black relative to annual income. 3. The Homeowners Association has negotiated a major sponsorship with the Summit Group as part of its development agreement. The Association will strive to establish similar sponsorships with other major enterprises in our area to supplement its income.
4.
The Association will implement a preventive maintenance plan with the 2014 budget. This plan will project likely expenses for maintenance five years into the future at all times. This is intended to reduce the likelihood of unforeseen failures and resultant higher costs. 5. The Association has a full commitment in 2014 and beyond to conducting the annual Fall Festival, Kids’ Fishing Contest, and Easter Egg Hunt. 6. The Association will support a 4th of July fireworks event only if full sponsorship and a workable site are found; support is not included in 2014 budget. 7. Saddle-stitch “Lakes View” Magazine in lieu of last year’s perfect binding process to save expenses, distribute as hard copy, snail-mailed, to all owners’ addresses in 2014. Seek ad revenue to support magazine costs as near 100% as possible. Goal should be complete ad revenue funding of the magazine, and possibly some income generation. We promise to keep you informed about fiscal matters of the Association in future “It’s Your Money!” articles in “Lakes View” Magazine.
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
13
Take Notice In e New Year By Susan W Harnden Esq.
As the complimentary vendor calendars arrive daily in the mail, I am reminded a new year always brings reflections of our past accomplishments, our regrets, blessings, losses, and the renewed hope for us all, both personal and professional. The KLHOA calendar year “2013” brought all these with the greatest mark of loss as we said goodbye to our dear, devoted Dick Thoma, former KLHOA board treasurer, friend, neighbor, and community leader. On the wing of his passing, like a sardonic parting gift only Dick could conjure, the KLHOA was faced with unusual imminent legal matters thought by all to have been put to rest over a decade ago. I refer to the swarm of Leon County Circuit Court and First District Court of Appeals cases, as well as the 1997 civil case involving the KLHOA, Leon County, and numerous surrounding community associations borne from the commercial development of private property in the Bradfordville community. For those just now tuning in, large parcels along Bannerman Road, now owned by the The Summit Group/Bannerman Crossings, are to be developed in the upcoming year once all legal matters are resolved and the County approves the development agreement. Having practiced law for over 10 years in Florida—which apparently is nothing I suppose in legal dog years—
14
Lakes View / Issue 63 / February 2014
I can report after wading through the endless correspondence and pleadings, the 1990’s Bradfordville litigation ranks in the top 3 for bloody legal land battles of Leon County. And although the smell of litigation carnage in a monstrosity of such a matter as this always seems to linger, it gives me great pleasure and pride to report I have witnessed a new history. This year, I watched a voluntary group of men and women, your KLHOA board of directors, go above and beyond the call to fulfill their duty and ensure their understanding of some pretty monumental and complex legal issues; this Board was new to the issues as was I. Remarkable is being a part of an inherently contentious process where all of the parties, including the developer, its legal counsel, the neighboring associations, and the County staff, are committed to a just, peaceful outcome as to not repeat a warring history. Rare are these moments and I thank you, the Board, and all involved for striving to keep the delicate balance of people and property, nature and man. We are on our way as a community and a society when we break the chain of dissention. Peace to you and yours in 2014. http://cms.leoncountyfl.gov/coadmin/agenda/view2.asp?id=11535
FareShare Spinich Artichoke Bread By Erin Murphy 1 (14 ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped 2 green onions, sliced 2 cloves garlic, chopped 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature 1/4 cup mayonnaise 1/2 cup sour cream 1/2 cup mozzarella, shredded 1/4 cup parmigiano reggiano (parmesan), grated 1 loaf Italian bread, sliced in half lengthwise
Mix the artichoke hearts, green onions, garlic, cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, mozzarella and parmigiano reggiano reserving some of the cheese. Hollow 1/2 an inch out of the center of both halves of the bread. Spread the mixture into the hole in the bread slices and top with the reserved cheese. Bake in a preheated 350F oven covered in foil for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue to bake until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
15
16
Lakes View / Issue 63 / February 2014
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
17
Cyndy’s Ruminations By Cyndy Reichert
“DOCTOR SLEEP” A Novel Stephen King
When last we left little Danny Torrance, he was one of three survivors of the explosion and fire at the Overlook, one of Colorado’s great resort hotels. The other two were his mother, Wendy, and Dick Halloran, the hotel’s chef. The hotel’s off-season caretaker (and Danny’s father), John Torrance, did not survive. Both surviving adults were quite seriously
The twists and turns that King leads us into leave you sleepless at night, grabbing another page to read injured from the explosion. Only the child was unhurt… physically, that is. That book was The Shining. Doctor Sleep picks up with Danny growing up with his debilitated mother, living in poverty, scarred and leery of the world, and the ghosts of his past (remember, don’t go into room 217.) Dick Halloran, who also has “the shine”, is there to help Danny cope by using mental techniques to help rid him of the ghosts that are haunting his present life. During this time in young Danny’s life, we get our first glimpse at the True Knot, seemingly a band of harmless RV-driving gypsies who are torture-loving, soul-sucking folks, who aren’t folks at all. Led by Rose the Hat, a beautiful woman who keeps a black velvet top-hat jauntily affixed to her long black mane of hair, they criss-cross around the country, living in their RV’s, taking “steam” from time to time (which are stored in Rose’s luxurious RV in canisters.) They “harvest” the steam by torturing young children who have “the shine.” This makes the True Knot… immortal. In just a few pages, Stephen King advances Danny’s life, equating the change in time with who is in the White House (a peanut farmer,
18
Lakes View / Issue 63 / February 2014
the actor, and the saxophonist.) “Dan” is now an adult… and a messed up one at that. He has succumbed to alcoholism to keep the stresses of his gift of “the shining” at bay. He is penniless, works odd jobs at hospitals and carries all of his belongings on his back as he drifts from city to city on a bus. Dan finally hits rock bottom one morning after, yet another one-night-stand, alcohol abuse, violence, and a paycheck blown on “blow” for the woman lying next to him that morning. He gets on, yet, another bus that carries him to a small New Hampshire town, Frazier. Here his little voice, Tony, tells him it’s time to settle down. He is mesmerized by Teenytown, a smaller rendition of the town with a tiny train, where he meets his new best friend, Billy, who also has a little bit of “the shine.” Billy helps Dan get a winter job, which leads Dan to his employer, Casey Kingsley, a recovered alcoholic who forces Dan to join AA with very stringent rules on attendance and is his sponsor. During this time in 2001, an infant girl, Abra Stone is born with a caul (membrane) covering her face (just as was Danny Torrance’s.) Over the next dozen years, we see her grow up with the sometimes spooky manifestation of her own shining talents. She is a precocious young girl with talents that make her look like a lighthouse as compared to Dan as a flashlight. During this time she reaches out to Dan via a chalkboard in his attic room at the Helen Rivington House, a hospice where he works as an orderly. This is where Dan gets his nickname as “Doctor Sleep” as he and a cat named “Azzie” (who has an ability to predict when one of the patients there is about to leave this world) helps the future nearly departed to leave this world in peace as he tells them to… sleep. By now, the True Knot is looking for “steam,” in which they have now found Abra as the greatest shining prey they have ever seen. Abra has had visions of a torture the Knot has transpired to in the past and she becomes visually linked to Rose the Hat, and there she reaches out to Dan for help. The two of them have now made faceto-face contact and struggle to unriddle the mystery and nature of the True Knot and their own relationship. With the help of friends, family, and Abra’s pediatrician, this harrowing tale between Abra and
the cultists fills the remainder of the book. The twists and turns that King leads us into leave you sleepless at night, grabbing another page to read. In the “Author’s Note,” King recalls many book-signings where he was asked what he thought happened to the kid in the book, The Shining. He said that it was with great trepidation that he launched into writing this sequel. I say Doctor Sleep is better than the Shining.
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
19
A Snow Day To Remember January 29, 2014
By Trina Searcy 12... Killearn Lakes sales in 20 147 homes sold, 4 average sale price: $187,91 13.... Killearn Lakes sales in 20 d, sol 131 homes 3 average sale price: $205,09 This tells us that the es are foreclosures and short sal ity equ re slowing down, and mo y uit Eq ce. reasing our overall sale pri , owners are selling now, inc Yes s. sale rt peting with a sea of sho owners are no longer com ing com res sales and some foreclosu we still have a few short e seen in previous years. on line, but not like we hav 14 Can’t wait to see what 20 Good job, Killearn Lakes! will bring us!
20 Lakes View / Issue 63 / February 2014
Eighth Annual Casino Night for Dyslexia Dyslexia Research Institute/Woodland Hall Academy is hosting their 8th Annual Casino Night at the Antique Car Museum and Conference Center on February 7 from 7:00 – 10:45 p.m. Proceeds go to support programs for children with dyslexia and attention deficit disorders at Woodland Hall Academy and other programs of Dyslexia Research Institute. Doing good has never been so much fun! Star 98 DJ Steve Christian will keep the Casino Island Theme going as music fills the center. Participants can try their luck at poker, roulette, craps, and black jack (funny money only, of course). Tallahassee Ball Room Dance will be leading the way on the dance floor. The shoppers in the crowd can bid on items in the silent and live auctions. Items range from golf games, original wildlife art, oil changes, passes to Busch Gardens, teeth whitening, beach bags and more…
Dinner will be served from 7:00 – 8:45 p.m.. A free beer and wine bar is available. Tickets are $35 and may be purchased at the door or by calling Woodland Hall Academy at 8932216. Dress is casual and participants should be 18 years or older. More information concerning Casino Night may be found at www.dricasinonight.com Dyslexia Research Institute/Woodland Hall Academy was founded in 1975 and has been serving students with dyslexia and attention deficit disorders since that time. Their program is nationally recognized with the motto “If they can’t learn the way we teach, we must teach the way they learn.” Contact Robyn Rennick for more information.
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
21
S
enior’sspot By Lisa Cozzocrea
As we begin to walk into the New Year I can't think of a better At first glance, the cost of professional in-home care may look topic then planning and funding care. In this article of Senior Spot I greater then it truly is. That is, until family caregivers honestly will review some of the more common funding options for senior consider the value of the time and financial sacrifices made to care housing and long-term care services. for a loved one. If you are a family caregiver, you understand that the Senior care can range from a few hours a week of personal and responsibility requires a considerable amount of your time and companionship care by an in-home care provider, to full-time inattention your loved one deserves. Chances are to get everything done home care, to skilled nursing care in a nursing home. Many who have that needs to be done, you have had to reduce your hours at work. not done their research mistakenly believe that Medicare can be the Maybe even cut back to part-time employment or even passed up a answer for long-term care. In reality, it covers only a very narrow promotion. When you work with a reputable in-home care agency, range of long-term care costs. It is important that you understand like Comfort Keepers, you will still be in charge of the care that is ahead of time the being provided for your benefits and limits of loved ones, you just will not Medicare so you can be responsible for the timerevisiting safety tips for the adequately prepare for consuming, day-to-day care long-term care needs. As giving responsibilities. You kitchen is never a waste of time previously mentioned, will have peace of mind Medicare applies to knowing your loved one is long-term care in receiving proper care, while limited circumstances, such as immediately following a hospital stay. you can go about taking care of your own life. Medicare covers short-term, physician-prescribed home health care If you have been avoiding it, now may be the time to determine for skilled nursing, physical, occupational and speech therapy, and the financial impact that home care can make on your life. You may medical social services, as well as assistance with bathing, feeding and find that allowing others to do the job is a smart financial decision! other personal care by a home health aide. Medicare does not pay for Please feel free to call Comfort Keepers at 850-402-0051 for more extended care. information or for a no-cost assessment as to how we can help care Long-Term Care Insurance can help seniors pay the cost of longfor your loved ones. term care, helping to avoid depletion of life savings for extended care. Until next time, stay warm, stay safe, and keep smiling‌ However, coverage is expensive. Premiums increase the older you are when you buy it. VA Aid and Attendance Pension Benefit is for veterans and their surviving spouses. They may qualify for Veterans Administration 2709-3 Killarney Way benefits to cover some of the cost of in-home care. Tallahassee, Fl 32309 Paying out of pocket for long-term Care is often what Seniors (850) 402-0051 and their families turn to, tapping into savings and assets to help pay contactus@comfortkeepers.com for long-term care.
22 Lakes View / Issue 63 / February 2014
Ten Winter Tips for Pets
It's getting colder out there, and you're not the only one who feels it! North Shore Animal League America would like to offer you and your pet 10 winter tips for when the temperature dips! Antifreeze is poisonous to your pets. Make sure to wipe up any spills and keep these and other harmful chemicals out of your pet's reach or path. Feral and stray cats often take winter refuge under cars and can sometimes even make their way under the hoods. Make sure the coast is clear before starting your car. Be sure to wipe your dog's feet (and stomach in small dogs) after a winter walk. Rock salt or other ice melting chemicals can cling to your pet's fur and he can ingest these harmful chemicals when cleaning himself. ALL PETS NEED TO BE INSIDE. Never leave your pet outside for extended periods of time in the cold, even in a doghouse. When the temperature drops, your pet can get frostbite or even freeze to death. *If you notice a pet being locked outside in the winter, be sure to report it to your local law enforcement and humane officers. Keep an eye on your pet's water dish to ensure it doesn't freeze.
Short-coated dogs are especially vulnerable to the cold and shouldn't be outside unattended or for too long. Pets should not be left in the car. Most people know not to leave their pets in a car in the summer, but the same goes for the winter. A car interior can get as cold as an ice box and a pet can easily freeze. Check your dog's paw pads for ice balls. If your dog is lifting his feet a lot or seems to be walking strangely, his feet are probably too cold or ice may be forming which can cause frostbite. Keep your pet groomed. Believe it or not, knotted or matted hair doesn't insulate properly. Brush your dog's hair regularly in the wintertime especially. Adjust your pet's diet as necessary. If your dog spends a lot of time outside, he may need more calories in the winter to produce body heat. If your dog spends most of his time indoors and has a decrease in activity, he may require fewer calories. When in doubt, always ask your vet about seasonal diet changes. Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org 23
Field Manager’s Note
Trees and Insurance What happens if a tree falls in my yard but does not hit anything? Homeowners insurance policies cover real property. If nothing that was insured was damaged, there is no coverage. That means removing the tree would be done at your expense. This is why homeowners are encouraged to inspect the trees surrounding their homes to be sure they are properly maintained and are healthy enough to stand up to high winds. If a hurricane strikes and many trees are damaged, it may take a while before a crew could reach you – and when the demand is high and resources are limited, the costs of services such as tree removal are often higher.
homeowners are encouraged to inspect the trees surrounding their homes to be sure they are properly maintained
Does my insurance cover damage from falling trees? A homeowners insurance policy covers two types of damage associated with trees: damage to your insured property (casualty damage) and damage for which you are responsible (liability). For example, if a tree in your yard fell onto the roof of your home, your homeowners insurance policy would pay to repair the damage and remove the tree.
What if my neighbor’s tree falls on my house? It doesn’t matter who owns the tree. If there is damage to your property, your insurance policy would cover the loss. However, if the tree that toppled over was diseased or tilting severely and should have been removed or trimmed before the damage occurred, the neighbor could be held liable. Your insurance company will generally pay for your damage and then try to recover the money they paid from the neighbor who owned the tree. 24 Lakes View / Issue 63 / February 2014
If the tree hits my shed or fence, is it covered by insurance? Yes, and you should review the Other Structures section of your homeowners insurance policy to learn what the policy limits are for this coverage. Repairs to a shed or fence are covered up to the policy limit, but if the repairs and cost of getting the tree off the damaged structure exceed the limits, there is typically additional coverage available for removing the debris, usually with a 5 percent cap. For example, if you have $10,000 in coverage for Other Structures, your insurer will pay a maximum of $10,500 for repairs and tree removal.
Why won’t my insurance pay to remove a damaged tree that is leaning toward my home? There is no coverage if the tree has not damaged insured property. An insurance policy covers damage, not the threat of damage. A homeowner insurance policy is not a home maintenance policy. Learning to recognize tree hazards will prevent damage from worsening and could protect your landscaping.
Is there another way to cover my expenses from tree removal if my insurance doesn’t cover it? Typically, losses not covered by insurance or other means can be deducted as a casualty loss on an individual’s federal income taxes. Talk to your tax professional or review IRS publications on calculating casualty losses. The IRS defines a casualty loss as an “identifiable event that is sudden, unexpected, or unusual.” Copyright 2010, Insurance Information Institute InsuringFlorida.org is a Web site of the Florida office of the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.). http://www.insuringflorida.org/articles/trees-and-insurance.html
✃ ✃
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org 25
Wa’s Up For 2014? By: Kim Gay
Talquin realizes that development is vital to the growth of the Office. This project includes the removal of the existing guyed tower. communities it serves and is active in supporting efforts to build The new network will provide more reliable communications infrastructure necessary to improve our Members’ quality of life. As between the Talquin offices and the linemen in the field. Thank you Talquin continues to grow, our primary goal is to provide reliable to all of our Members for your patience during this construction utility services to our membership in the safest and most efficient process. manner. Talquin’s Water Services Staff is working with Leon County in Talquin has seen recent growth in the Bradfordville area with order to relocate and make adjustments for water lines to coordinate two new subdivisions, Kings Mill and Velda Oaks. There is also a with the county’s storm water improvement projects. Also, Talquin potential development, which has permitted the conversion of includes retail stores and a existing percolation ponds to Text outage notification is community center, north of constructed wetlands at the Killearn Bannerman Road behind the Lakes Waste Water Treatment Plant. the fastest way to let Talquin Bradfordville Member In addition to improving water Service Office. On the south side of quality, this conversion will provide Talquin know that your Bannerman Road, there are plans a habitat for fish, flora, and fowl. power is out and to get for a potential apartment complex, Construction is planned to single family housing development commence on this project later this updates when there is an and an expansion of the existing year. outage. Sign up or get Bannerman Crossing Shopping In order to provide more Center. efficient and environmentally more information on In addition to supporting friendly ways to conduct business development, Talquin crews are for Members, Talquin offers several these services at always working to improve ways to pay utility bills. Automatic www.talquinelectric.com. reliability and maintain dependable bill payment/bank draft and paying services. In 2014, projects include bills online with a credit card or the relocation of power lines checking account are ways to save throughout Killearn Lakes that will be impacted by Leon County’s time and paper. We do not charge fees for online payments. drainage improvements in the Killearn Lakes Greenways. Talquin’s electronic-bill notification is a free and easy way to Construction is underway to install new underground electric lines receive, view, and pay Talquin electric bills online while protecting the environment and saving time for Members. Another time saving along Deer Lake Road and in the median of Kinhega Drive. feature for the membership is text outage notification. In addition, work will be completed for the microwave network installation on the new 350 foot tower at Talquin’s Bradfordville Road
26 Lakes View / Issue 63 / February 2014
Designated printer of the “Lakes View” Magazine
een Corner Classifieds PET SITTING AND DOG WALKING – Pet Sitting and Dog Walking Day or Night Call Karlee Jones at 933-1610
children (of all ages) and pets (of all types) please don't hesitate to call me at 727-742-3856. :)
PETSITTER – Reliable and experienced 17 year old petsitter. I have my own transportation. Please call Christine at 545-4612.
BABYSITTER & PETSITTER – Responsible, mature and enthusiastic 16 & 17 year old Chiles High School students, TMH certified available for babysitting and/or pet sitting. Please call Gabby & Claudia (850) 893 2342.
BABYSITTER – Hello, my name is Robyn Szczerba. I'm a 17-yearold senior at Chiles High School, an experienced babysitter, and I absolutely love kids. I am also CPR and First Aid certified and I have my own transportation. I'm available for babysitting as well as driving kids to and from activities. References provided upon request. Please contact me at (602) 510-4787 BABYSITTERS – Experienced 12-year-old Sitter and Mothers Helper. Prefer watching ages 4-9yrs. I love kids and I am very responsible. Bonus: household jobs such as folding laundry, dishes or tidy up your home. $3-5/hour. Available weekdays from 4-8 p.m. Sat. 10:30-4:30 p.m. and Sun. 1-8 p.m. Summer hours are more flexible. Can provide my own transportation. Call Emily at (850) 894-0421. BABYSITTER & PETSITTER – Need a 17 year old with CPR and TMH Babysitter's course certification to entertain your kid's for the night out, or the summer? Need a petsitter with lots of experience and patience? Call Brittany at (850)-688-4287 for a break! BABYSITTER & PETSITTER – ATTENTION to anyone who needs a reliable, hardworking, and responsible baby or petsitter! My name is Rachel Stadtfeld and I would love to come and watch your precious kiddos or pets! Call me anytime, even on short notice, for any occasion you may need to go out for! I am 17 years old and have much experience with children (past nanny) and pets (have 3)! I attend school at Chiles High and live in Golden Eagle. I am a licensed driver and a great student. For a fun and safe time for your
BABYSITTERS – My name is Delaney Stoner and I am a 18 year old senior at Chiles High School student. I love kids, I am great with them, and I have references available upon request. I am able to babysit in the Golden Eagle-Killearn Lakes area at anytime! Please feel free to call me whenever you need a babysitter at 850-841-0837! BABYSITTER - Reliable and experienced 13 year old; certified as babysitter by American Red Cross. Available most times during the summer and nights/weekends during the school year. Can provide my own transportation. Please call (850) 508-6819.
Teen girl, available for petsitting, house-cleaning, babysitting, or mother's helper. Very responsible, and has experience. Call Bethany at 893-9313. MOTHERS HELPER & BABYSITTER
Experienced 11 year old babysitter and mothers helper! Loves kids and very responsible. Available Saturdays and Sundays anytime! Ages 3- 8 only. Will provide own transportation. Please call Maisy Ivory at 850-385-7717
Note: These ads are complimentary and available to student teens of our community involved in weekend and after school entrepreneurial projects. Ads must be renewed for each issue. Please call the office at 668-3231, if you want to edit or continue your ad. Thank you.
PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE
PAID 7110 Beech Ridge Trail Tallahassee, FL 32312
Tallahassee, FL PERMIT NO. 498