Save these Dates
February 9 10 14 29
Quarterly Open Member Meeting @ 7 at Bradfordville Community Center Ash Wednesday Valentine’s Day Last day discounted dues payments apply
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.”
2016 Board of Directors (Elected by general membership)
Directors Trina Searcy, President Tom Martineau, Treasurer Joe Barnett, Director Olan Brunson, Director
Mark Reichert, Vice President Joanie Trotman, Secretary Jeff Caster, Director
10 13 17 20 20 27
Monthly Board Meeting @ 7 in KLHOA office Daylight Savings Time Begins (set your clocks forward 1 hour ) St. Patrick’s Day Palm Sunday Spring Begins Easter Sunday
The Architectural Control Committee (ACC) generally meets every other Friday at 10 am at the HOA office. If you wish to meet with the ACC, please call the office at 668-3231 and make an appointment.
Administrative Staff Nancy C. Johnson Anne Marshall Gregory Durant Sharon Malloy
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:
The photographer for this cover photo is the magazine Editor’s younger sister, Susan Clayton. 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 and assistant editor. 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!
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Lakes View / Issue 75/ February 2016
Important Phone Numbers
Fire Department & Leon County Sheriff (non-emergency situations only):
606-3300
Talquin Electric (ex: Light out on your street) (Bradfordville office):
893-6853
Outages (24-hour service): Leon County Public Roads: CALL BEFORE YOU DIG:
(1-888) 802-1832 606-1400 (1-800) 432-4770
Animal Control:
606-5400
Leon County Mosquito Control:
606-1400
Waste Pro:
606-1899
Leon County Storm Water Questions::
606-1400
Stay Connected with Killearn Lakes. Like our Facebook page Killearn Lakes Homeowners and for all the latest news visit our website at www.killearnlakeshoa.org.
A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new. ~ Albert Einstein
Editor’s Note 2016
unfortunately began sadly here at the association office when one of our eldest and dearest board members passed away suddenly on New Year’s Eve morning. Please read the tributes to Dan S. King by Thomas R. Martineau, on pages 6 & 7. The 2016 Annual Dues Invoices were mailed in early January. If you have not received yours please contact the office and we can provide a copy to you. Newer members may have had the current year’s dues assessment paid at your closing so you can check your closing documents to determine if that is the case. Anne and Sharon have been very busy posting all payments we have received! We now also offer payment by credit card but, as stated on your invoice, we do not offer the discount if you choose to pay by this method. As he has in the past, board treasurer Tom Martineau, has prepared an annual report on how we spent your dues money in 2015. Don’t miss his in-depth reporting on pages 20 & 21. Our next Quarterly Open Member Meeting will be held Tuesday, February 9th at 7 pm at the Bradfordville Community Center Historic Schoolhouse, now permanently located on the Beech Ridge Extension Road. We hope to have a new flag flying there by the time we meet. Joe Barnett, board director, will present a 2016 “Lake Friendly Yard” sign and a $100.00 gift certificate from a local nursery to Don & Linda Gerteisen, the latest winners of this prized award. You may recall reading about Don and Linda in the December 2015 issue of “Lakes View”. We would like to extend a sincere “Thank You” to all of our advertisers, who make this magazine possible. One of our newer advertisers, Giggles, is featured this month in our “Business Spotlight”. The grand opening for Giggles was January 9, 2016, and the owners invite you to stop in and check out what they have to offer. As more businesses open in Bannerman Crossings, our intent is to feature them in “Business Spotlight”, as well. Finally, it was so good to see the “Decorate Me” sign in the median area at Willow Run and Deerlake Road, with colored and handmade ornaments and tinsel adorning one of the Leland Cypress trees. Thank you again for taking the time to do this. Hopefully, it will be a Christmas tradition for many years to come.
Until next time,
Nancy C. Johnson Operations Director, Bookkeeper & Editor
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
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Bryan's Brief Happy New Year to all – hope the holidays were enjoyable for all you. It looks as if the cold weather is finally settling in and raking leaves is an ongoing struggle. The following are some updates for you. Please let me know if there are other issues of interest or if you have questions regarding any of these. Federal Update: In December, Congress passed one of Leon County's top federal legislative priorities - a six-year transportation bill that will provide needed long-term funding certainty for local projects. Leon County and our federal lobbying team are diligently keeping track of federal legislation that will impact our community. In addition, as the First Vice President of the National Association of Counties, I will continue working to advocate for county-based solutions to policy issues at the national level.
DISTRICT IV PROJECTS Millers Landing Rd and Meridian Rd – Good news! If you drive on Millers Landing or Meridian, you know they’re working to install the traffic signal. Work should be complete in the next 30 days, but they’ll monitor the light over the next few months to fine tune signalization. I’ve been advised any car traveling on Millers Landing Rd will trigger the signal when approaching Meridian to change the light from red to green. It won’t be instantaneous as it must go through the transition from green, to yellow, to red on Meridian. It’s been a long time coming, but this should make a dramatic difference for those trying to access Meridian. Bradfordville Community Center (Bannerman Rd) – Be sure to check out the Senior Programs at the Northeast Library and keep in mind the “Old School House” Community Center is available for use. We’re installing a mast and the American flag and adding some exterior lighting. Let me know if there are other issues we should address. You may call Maxine Donovan in Parks and Recreation 606-1474 if you need information on any of our community centers. The Bannerman Road Widening – The road widening from Thomasville Rd to 900 feet west of Quail Commons is still on schedule and pending no adverse weather, the work should be done by August. We’re adding a lane to the southside of Bannerman which should improve traffic conditions in the area. Orchard Pond Toll Road – This project is still on schedule and expected to be completed in April or May if there are no unforeseen 4
Lakes View / Issue 75/ February 2016
February 2016 weather delays. The existing Orchard Pond Rd will be converted into a bike pedestrian trail. Killearn Lakes Sidewalk Installation – A contract has been issued for the design of a sidewalk on Chadwick from Bull Headly to Deerlake and from Deerlake to Journey’s End. They’ll also connect the sidewalk to the small stretch on Pheasant Run where there is no sidewalk. This is being done under the Safe Routes To School Initiative and is being funded by the local option Gas Tax and Blueprint 2000 allocations. Killearn Lakes Unit 2 and Unit 3 Stormwater Project Improvements – The actual construction work is complete in these two units, but we do have a punch list of items to complete, primarily landscaping, so you will still see some County staff in the area. We had some delays caused by the contractor, but we are working those out. Killearn Lakes Unit 1 – is under construction with an eight to nine month completion date if there are no adverse weather conditions to delay construction. The problem we’re encountering is that this is a designated wetland area protected by State Environmental Regulations and we’re challenged in doing any type construction or restoration in that area. Roadway Restoration – The culverts under Kinhega need to be replaced and are in the permitting process for design work. We should be moving forward with the installation with those culverts beginning March/April. You can expect there to be lane closures when work begins. Repaving of Kinhega will be done when the culvert project is complete. Tekesta has been resurfaced. 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.
Bryan Desloge Leon County Commission District IV
Leon County Board of County Commissioners
Business Spotlight Giggles Indoor Play Center has opened in the New Bannerman Crossings Shopping Center. Over 4,400 square foot of playground is the Go-to place for families! Parents can relax in the comfortable parent lounge with free Wi-Fi, while sipping on complimentary coffee and water, all while watching their children play. Children of all ages are welcome and will find fun as each age group has areas with toys and play structures geared toward their likes and abilities. The infant/wobbler area features soft toys, interactive, and mentally challenging toys for kids ages infant – 1 year. The toddler area is designed with play structures that are made for toddlers to explore, climb, and safely play. Older kids can slide down the large slides, climb a rock wall, or pretend to be a pirate in the crow’s nest in a large jungle gym designed for kids ages 5-12. The kids are sure to work up an appetite so Giggles offers kid friendly snacks and drinks available for purchase. Have a Birthday coming up and don’t want it ruined by Florida’s ever changing weather? Giggles has two large event rooms which total 1,000 square feet. These event rooms will host various classes during the day (Princess Ballet, Costumed Storytime, Baby & Me Yoga, Sign Language, Tutoring, Kids Fitness and more). The event rooms are a great place to host your next Birthday, Baby Shower, or Graduation Party. Giggles Indoor Play Center is a family-owned, family-operated facility. Giggles is the brain child of Brittany White Syrdahl and Ross Syrdahl. Brittany and Ross grew up in Tallahassee (attending Deerlake Middle School, Chiles High School, Lincoln High School, and TCC). They honeymooned in Las Vegas over 7 years ago and fell in love with the bustling city. They worked in upper management positions (Brittany for a high end Spa/Casino/hotel on the strip and Ross for a popular, nationwide chain know for the highest rated customer service). They are blessed with two small children.
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
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A Sudden And Big Loss To Our Community By: Tom Martineau, KLHOA Board Treasurer
On New Year’s Eve, the Killearn Lakes Homeowners Association Board of Directors lost its oldest and longest-serving member to cancer. Dan King was also one of the most dedicated and caring board members in the forty-plus year history of the Association. In addition to his duties on the board, he was the chair of the Architectural Control Committee (ACC). In his twelve years of service, he rarely missed a meeting of the board or the committee. And he was never shy about offering his ideas and opinions. At the same time, he was a good listener to the thoughts of others. “We are here to protect everyone’s property values,” was an oft-said Dan-ism at the Friday ACC meetings in his attempt to explain why it was the committee’s charge to enforce the KLHOA’s Covenants and Restrictions. A second expression Dan used often came from his expertise as a Certified Florida Circuit Court Mediator: “If you haven’t got it in writing, you haven’t got it.” His expertise and his life’s experience were invaluable to our community. His full obituary as published in the Tallahassee Democrat rounds out all that he had to offer our unincorporated town of over 4,200 homeowners.
Here are comments from some of those who remember Dan fondly: Commissioner Desloge: “… (Dan) lived a good life giving back to our community and his family should be very proud of him as I know all of you are.” Tony Park, Director of Public Works: “I will miss my railroad friend.” Brenda Tanner, Aide to Commissioner Desloge: “I'm just truly in shock!! I can't even imagine how all of you are feeling.” Trina Searcy, Board President: “I’m so sad.” Mark Reichert, Vice-President: “So sorry to hear. Dan will be missed. Tom Martineau, Treasurer: “Within just a few short years, Dan became one of my best and most trusted friends on the board and life in general. I’m honored and privileged to have known him.” Joanie Trotman, Secretary: “…he was one of a kind. Not only as a leader of our community where he wore many hats but as a person.” Joe Barnett, board member: “He knew so much! He loved Killearn Lakes and gave all he had to our neighborhood. He was on my list of people I wanted to interview. Time goes too fast! Miss him already.” Jeff Caster, board member: “Dan’s service and friendships on the board meant a lot to him, especially his most recent re-election… It added quality time to his life. Admirable how he finished strong. Olan Brunson, board member: “This is terrible news... The BOD has truly lost a workhorse.” Kelly Bagwell, Killearn Commons HOA board member: I was so shocked. I really liked Dan! I worked with him for several years on our board and I got a kick out of his Big Texas growl! He was nothing but .kind to me. Nancy C Johnson, Operations Director: We are still in shock and all of us are very sad here- he will be greatly missed!! Dan collapsed at his home before Christmas and was taken to TMH. He was placed in a room on the seventh floor - the oncology wing, because it was the only room available at the time. He was diagnosed with a severe kidney infection, and acute dehydration, and treated accordingly. Those of us who came to visit him were greeted with “Before we talk about anything else, let me tell you right away: I don’t have cancer.” (Followed by the explanation of why he was
coincidentally on the oncology floor.) Within a few days, Dan lost and never regained consciousness. He died early on New Year’s Eve. In all likelihood, he never was aware that he had been walking around with Stage Four pancreatic cancer that had spread to his liver and gall bladder. It seems just as well.
Dan is deeply missed not only by his family, but by everyone at the Homeowners Association. His death also deals a blow to the interests and welfare of every homeowner in Killearn Lakes. He leaves big shoes to fill.
Mr. Daniel Sinkler King Jr. July 27, 1934 - December 31, 2015
Dan King was born in Kingstree, SC and reared in Florence and Darlington, SC. In his home, service to country was imperative; King joined the National Guard while still in high school. He was activated and served honorably as an Army paratrooper in the Korean War; as part of the prestigious Airborne forces, he often parachuted into conflict behind enemy lines. Upon honorable separation, he participated in Army administered aptitude tests; King was exceptionally logical and mathematically gifted and was offered scholarships to both The Citadel and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Instead he chose to follow his father’s path by working for the Atlantic Coastline Railroad as a brakeman. He traveled from the Carolinas to Virginia, Alabama and Florida, eventually moving to Lakeland, Florida in 1960. King left the railroad and went to work for Owens-Illinois as a master mechanic. His acute interest in politics and fervent affinity for fairness led to a long and extremely successful alliance and career with the AFL-CIO, Glass Bottle Blowers Association and the Glass, Molders, Pottery, Plastics and Allied Workers as the local union president for 25 years and an undercover labor organizer in Florida, Illinois, Connecticut, New York and Texas. Dan also served the Florida AFL - CIO as Executive Vice-president At Large for 2 terms from 1987 thru 1993. He was also appointed by Governor Lawton Chiles to the Florida Commission on Volunteerism & Community Services and served from 1989 to 1995. King grew up in the Carolina tradition of NASCAR racing; he spoke fondly of the time he spent working in the pit crew for Raymond Williams and Robert ‘Junior ‘Johnson at both local and national NASCAR speedways. In 1985, while attending a union function, King met his greatest love and the woman that he would spend the rest of his life with, Dixie King. The couple was married for more than 25 years. His hobbies included traveling domestically and internationally with Dixie and designing and constructing model railroad freight yards.
After his retirement - with Dixie’s encouragement - King’s strong sense of volunteerism led him to join a small group of dedicated Supreme Court Certified volunteers who provided mediation services for the 2nd Judicial Circuit court in Leon County, FL. King was among the first to volunteer for the venerated organization; his objective was to help those less fortunate navigate the judicial system. His efforts, alongside those of his fellow volunteers, resolved more than 84% of filed disputes by facilitating voluntary agreements. King was known for his lightening quick wit, native intelligence, mastery of southern colloquialisms and his ability to recount the stories of his time; he was extraordinarily observant. Dixie King remembers a unique man who loved music and could recite the lyrics of nearly any genre, who never met a stranger, who loved Texas Aggie football and lived his strong, authentic sense of ‘paying it forward’ every day. He loved his family and adored his cat, Nala. He was the longest serving board member and 12 year director for the Killearn Lakes Homeowners Association as well as a member of the Big Bend Model Railroad Association. King succumbed to cancer after a short illness. He is survived by the wife he cherished, Dixie King of Tallahassee, FL, his step-daughter Elizabeth Matthews of Tallahassee FL, his daughter Jennifer Shea (Joe), grandchildren, John Shea, Conor Shea and Shelby Shea of Sarasota, FL, his sons, Dan King of Lakeland, FL and Brant (Jennifer) King of Atlanta, GA, his sisters, Mary (Bill) Cruse of Raleigh, NC and Lorena (John) Cochrane of Charlotte, NC and step-son Craig Matthews of Edmond, OK. A celebration of his life will be hosted by his wife on Saturday, February 20, 2016 at 3pm at Abbey Funeral Home, 4037 N. Monroe Street, Tallahassee, FL, 32303. Anyone wishing to donate rather than sending flowers is encouraged to contribute to the Leon County Humane Society. Expressions of sympathy may be conveyed at www.abbeyfh.com.
Crepe Myrtles are among the toughest, most adaptable, and showiest shrubs. A native of China and introduced to us in 1786 by Frenchman Andre Michaux, the "Lilac of the South" is the most popular flowering tree in the warmer, southern regions of North America. Crepe Myrtles are arguably one of the most beautifully branching flowering trees in the world and would easily enhance the look of any home or business landscape. As with any flowering plant, proper pruning will yield graceful shapes, strong stems and more blooms. Winter is a great time to prune a crepe myrtle, because it's leafless and you can easily see all of the branches. It also blooms on new growth, so pruning now won't reduce blooming. In fact, it may increase it. Unfortunately, there is a widespread misconception that properly pruning a crepe myrtle tree means completely topping off most of its branches. The improper practice--nicknamed "Crepe Murder"--actually damages and disfigures the tree. Topping causes profuse growth at the site of the pruning and encourages new growth that is too dense to allow air movement and light to reach the inner branches. Although topping may result in larger blooms, those flowers will grow on thinner, weaker branches that will droop and may even break. Correctly pruned crepe myrtles have a beautiful vase-shaped form with smooth trunks and gently arching branches with bark in colors of lovely warm beige, cinnamon, or silver-gray. The beautiful bark and elegantly shaped tree trunk begins to lose its beauty and will even
develop large, unsightly knobs once "murdered." Crepe Myrtles are a show-stopping addition to a landscape - so stop the madness of crepe murder! Call the professionals at The Grounds Guys to properly prune your trees and plants at your home or business.
850.894.1875 GroundsGuys.com 8
Lakes View / Issue 75/ February 2016
2016 KLHOA Board Meetings The Board meetings scheduled below are to be held at 7:00 pm at the KLHOA office: January 14, 2016
July 14, 2016
March 10, 2016
September 8, 2016
April 14, 2016
October 13, 2016
June 9, 2016
December 8, 2016
The Quarterly Open Member Meetings are to be held at 7:00 pm at the Bradfordville Community Center: February 9, 2016
May 10, 2016
August 9, 2016
The Annual Meeting is Saturday, November 12 (time & place TBD). The Architectural Control Committee (ACC) meets at 10:00 am every other Friday at the KLHOA office.
How to Keep Your New Year’s Resolutions By: Trina Searcy
The new year has arrived, and you have already drawn up your resolutions. Now, how to stick to your plan?
Steps: 1. Put it all on paper. Write your resolutions down, and keep them in an accessible place as reminders - tape them to your mirror, write them in a journal or put them on your refrigerator door. 2. Mark your calendar. Set deadlines for yourself to tackle each step toward reaching your goal, one at a time. 3. Start as soon as possible. Go out and purchase the necessary equipment or literature; call now and set up an appointment with your dentist, your doctor, your trainer, your accountant.... 4. Find a role model. Is there anyone who has succeeded in fulfilling an ambition like yours? Look to this person as a reminder that it is possible to achieve your goal. 5. Check your progress regularly, and give yourself an occasional reward for your efforts. Make sure the reward isn’t contrary to your resolution; celebrate a cigarette-free month with a weekend trip or a new outfit, not with a cigarette! 6. Inform friends and family of your goals, and recruit them to regularly remind and support you in your endeavors.
Tip: Don’t sweat the setbacks; persistence is the key.
Trina Searcy & Associates Keller Williams Town and Country Realty Tallahassee FL 850-508-0134 Direct • 850-201-4663 Office www.TrinaSearcyRealtor.com Your Real Estate Resource!Trina Searcy Broker Associate ABR, CRS, e-Pro, CHMS 2016 Tallahassee Board Of Realtors President 2011- 2014 ALC Keller Williams Leadership Council 2013-2014 Tallahassee Board of REALTORS® treasurer 2009-current Killearn Lakes HOA President 2009 ~ Keller Williams Agent of the Year! 2013-2014 Women's Council of REALTORS® VP of Membership
Spend Time With Loved Ones ... By: Trina Searcy
Why should the winter holiday season be the only time to enjoy your friends and loved ones? While it's still early in the year, plan to set aside time for someone close to you, or someone you'd like to know better. Make a list of friends you've lost touch with over the years. Scribble a note in your planner to call one of them every other month just to catch up. Plan private time with your significant other. Send the kids to sleep over at a friend's house so that you can be together in the comfort of
your own home. Make a date with each of your kids to go out where he or she chooses. Use the opportunity to have fun together, just the two of you, without mentioning schoolwork or a messy room. Use a special event, like a new exhibition at a museum or a craft fair, to invite a friend for a "walk and talk" afternoon. Keep postcards and stamps handy, so that you can drop the people you love a note whenever you think of it.
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
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Our Story ...told with a nerdy magical twist By: Tiebout & Rebekah McCrea
The best way I can relate this story is to bring you back to one of the best moments in the history of stories: the moment Harry Potter found out he was a wizard. For those of you who know the story, I will remind you that Harry was not in the best of circumstances. He was a little confused and a little lonely, until Hagrid came through the door on a dark rainy night and introduced Harry to a whole new world. Similarly, I had just graduated FSU and was a little confused at what to do next, not to mention a little lonely too. That was until Charleigh Farmer introduced me to Becky one rainy night at a birthday party, and even though I didn't discover I was a wizard, I found something just as good with plenty of magic. Within a few weeks we had introduced each other to our parents, and a few weeks after that, I asked her to be my girlfriend at the pumpkin patch down the street from her house. I've never been one to make quick decisions and have taken many months in the past deciding what I want, but with Becky I knew almost immediately. She would be, and is now, the wife I always sought and the mother every child wants. From the start, we approached our relationship with the intentionality of marriage in the future. Getting to know one another was and still is a humorous experience for us both because of how much we have in common. Our friends and family all agreed. To be equally yoked is an understatement, this girl is the PB to my J, the milk to my Oreo, the Mac to my cheese, and even the difficult situations we have faced so far- we have handled with (relative) ease. One of these difficult situations we faced was our time apart while I was completing fire school 2 hours away. Neither of us had been in such a serious relationship before that became long distant. It was a challenge, but through it we grew spiritually and emotionally, and were constantly finding a multitude of affirmations and encouragements from each other, others, and unexplainably from our God above. This all lead to the next best decision I have ever made (besides asking her out): asking her to be my bride! With the help of our family and friends, I was able to make it up to Tallahassee the night before I graduated from the Fire Academy and surprise Becky at Lake Monkey Business with some music, flowers, champagne, candles, chocolates, pictures, and of course a ring! It was a surreal moment, one that I thought would be scary and nerve-racking, but the overwhelming feeling of peace and assurance was what I felt the most. I had no doubt she was the one, and I knew she felt the same. She said yes, and I felt like I just stepped onto platform nine and three quarters, boarding the train to a new and exciting place with my best friend and beautiful girl 12
Lakes View / Issue 75/ February 2016
that I had only dreamed about. Six months later, on December 27, 2015, we said our vows. The table Becky and I enjoyed the wedding reception at was made out of the wood from the top boards from the old Lake Monkey Business docks. Bob Gula, my father-in-law, owner of Timberline Garden Carpentry, and resident in Killearn Lakes helped us build this sweetheart table and all 18 farm tables that our guests enjoyed at the reception (which are now for rent). Killearn Lakes and Lake Monkey Business in particular are near to home and close to heart for us, as they may for many of you as well.
FareShare Red Velvet Cupcakes By: Better Homes and Gardens
Ingredients for the Cupcakes: 3 eggs ¾ cup butter 3 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder 2 ¼ cups sugar 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla 1 1 ounce bottle red food coloring (2 Tbsp.) 1 ½ cups buttermilk 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda 1 ½ teaspoons vinegar Small chocolate heart-shaped cookies (optional) Powdered sugar (optional)
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Lakes View / Issue 75/ February 2016
Directions: 1. Let eggs and butter stand 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line 28 2-1/2-inch cupcake pans with paper liners; set aside. 2. In medium bowl combine flour, cocoa powder, and 3/4 tsp. salt; set aside. In large mixing bowl beat butter on medium-high 30 seconds. Add sugar and vanilla; beat until combined. One at a time, add eggs; beat on medium after each. Beat in food coloring on low. 3. Alternately add flour mixture and buttermilk to egg mixture; beat on low to medium speed after each just until combined. Stir together baking soda and vinegar. Add to batter; beat just until combined. 4. Spoon batter into prepared pans, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake 15 to 17 minutes. Cool in pan on wire rack for 5 minutes. Remove from pans. Cool completely. Top with small chocolate cookies, if desired. Dust with powdered sugar. Makes 28 servings.
Personal Safety in the Home and Car – Legal Issues By: Lt. Charlie Strickland
dictates the chances of that happening - hopefully, they are slim. “A man’s home is his castle.” But what happens if you need to This law not only covers the act of illegal and forcible entry, but defend yourself in your castle - your home, car or hotel room? also the act of removing you against your will from your home, Florida’s Castle Doctrine is located in Florida Statute 776.013 vehicle or other domicile. If someone opens your car door and tries and states, in part, that a person is presumed to have acted defensively to drag you out of the car, you if he or she uses deadly force can use deadly force to protect against someone who is yourself, unless they are wearing presenting an imminent threat The key here is knowing what a uniform. of great bodily harm or death Lastly, the person using while entering, having entered or the law says is permissible and defensive force has to believe the trying to remove the person thinking through all of your crime mentioned had or is against his or her will from a home, vehicle or dwelling. options- not only what you can occurring. For example, you don’t necessarily have to watch Additionally, the person using or do, but what you should do. someone trying to get into your threatening to use defensive house unlawfully or by force - if force must know or have reason you find them in your home to believe the unlawful and already, you can probably take action. forcible entry or act was occurring or had occurred. “Just because you can doesn’t mean you should.” In plain language, you can use force to defend yourself against Now, play the “what if ” game. What if you are in bed and hear someone if these two criteria are met. a crash. You get up to check the house and find a drunk man getting This law deals specifically with your home or any structure that a beer from your refrigerator. While you can legally use deadly force is designed to accommodate people dwelling (sleeping) in it, whether against this man, should you? Would returning to a safe location in temporary or permanent, mobile or otherwise. This could also apply your house and calling 911 be better? Let’s hypothesize that he turns to an occupied vehicle - not an empty car, but your car with you in around and starts to walk toward, yelling at you because he thinks it, anywhere. you’re trespassing in HIS HOUSE. Maybe he’s your neighbor or your The first requirement is that the person has to have entered the neighbor’s teenager. He may or may not be armed -- how would this dwelling or occupied vehicle unlawfully and by force. For example, they could open the door without permission, or they could be information affect your decision making process? attempting to pry open a window. You don’t have to wait till they The key here is knowing what the law says is permissible and thinking through all of your options - not only what you can do, but get inside; there is a presumption they mean no good. You cannot, what you should do. You have to use your own personal sense of however, use force against someone who kicks down the door morality and judgment, but you should take time to think about shouting, “Sheriff ’s Office! Search Warrant!” There is a possibility these scenarios before you need a quick solution. Your life and the that they may be entering your dwelling lawfully. Your lifestyle lives of those around you could be dramatically affected, for better or for worse. Lt. Charlie Strickland is a 25 year veteran law enforcement officer and Watch Commander at the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. He has served in and supervised a number of units in his time there from the Robbery Task Force, Violent Crimes Unit, Patrol, Training, Field Training and Special Operations to Traffic and Motor Unit. He served as the SWAT Team Leader and spent 17 years on the team. He serves as the Agency Armorer, and a High Liability Instructor. He holds an B.S. and an MBA from Florida State University and is a Co-Owner and CEO of Talon Training Group, Talon Holsters, and the Talon Range in Midway, Florida along with JD Johnson. Talon boasts around 2,000 members and has trained over 5,000 locals in firearms safety and personal safety. Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
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Gd Neighborhd Resolutions
We all make a list of things we have meant to do and always with the best of intentions each first of the year called our “New Year’s Resolutions”. So we have composed a short list that we are calling “Some Good Neighborhood Resolutions” suggested by your neighbors. The following are just a few: •
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I resolve to move my garbage receptacles back from the street once Waste Pro has picked up and left the receptacles empty…
•
I resolve to take the extra time to close the gates once entering and leaving each of the gated lakes and parks….
•
I resolve to not leave trash/beer cans/bottles strewn about or deposited in the lakes, and I will either pick them up and place
Lakes View / Issue 75/ February 2016
them in the nearby trash bins or collect them and put in home recycling bins… •
I resolve to face on-coming traffic when walking ….
•
I resolve to not destroy the medians with my truck and leave deep ruts to fill with water and debris……
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I resolve to help my neighbor if they need assistance in taking care of their property or if they are new to the neighborhood.
With each issue we would like to publish more of your suggestions so we welcome you to submit your good neighbor resolutions.
Green Space By: Jeff Caster, Director
Hello neighbors. Starting with this Lakes View, this Green Space will be 300 or less words sharing and gathering information about conservation and management of natural resources in Killearn Lakes Plantation. It will take three minutes or less to read. Let me know if more space and time are needed or desired. The forested landscape of Killearn Lakes Plantation attracted many of us to search here, and find our home. Living here, we all enjoy our neighborhood’s natural resources and scenic beauty. Our investments in Killearn Lakes Plantation properties are most likely to grow in value if the land and water are managed wisely. Through careful planning and wise management of our neighborhood’s resources, our families and the families of those who follow can be enriched. Nearby plantation owners have developed goals for the future of their land and water resources; their forests, meadows, lakes, streams, ridges, and valleys. These responsible land owners know what they want their landscape to look like and how it’s expected to function. To assure their goals are achieved, their plans are tailored for their landscape. Typical goals include safety, wildfire prevention, elimination of hazard trees, flood and erosion control, invasive plant control, timber and crop production, improved water quality, improved wildlife habitat and viewing, hiking, and other recreation activities. Killearn Lakes Plantation can do the same. We can develop meaningful goals and a workable plan that informs us all as we each make decisions about how to care for our land and water, how to manage and grow our individual and shared investments in Killearn Lakes Plantation. It will be helpful to the entire community to know if you are interested or have questions or suggestions. Please contact me at jeffcaster@comcast.net or 850 294 2123.
Your Neighbors
Mary Morgan and Jessica Egert, enjoying the fishing at Lake Pine Hill
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
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Lakes View / Issue 75/ February 2016
Eagle Scout Project Completed at Pine Hill Park I could not have completed my project without the help of numerous volunteers from Troop 44 and the members of the community. Thanks to the commitment and helpfulness of the volunteers on the work day, we built the project without any difficulty. I also owe a tremendous thanks to the many people who sponsored this project, either through direct donation or participating in the fundraising efforts. Heinz Nurseries and Lowe’s both granted me generous discounts that made my project viable. Lastly, I would like to thank the Killearn Lakes HOA and the community at large for providing me with this service opportunity, allowing me to become an Eagle Scout. Thank you, Will Owens, Troop 44 Eagle Scout
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
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Gd News: It’s Still Your Money, And Here’s How We Spent It In 2015 By: Tom Martineau, KLHOA Board Treasurer
Dear Property Owners in Killearn Lakes Plantation: Once again it is time to report to the over 10,000 of you living in over 4,200 single family properties in Killearn Lakes how we spent your money during the past year. On average, most of you pay for our services about $120 per year per property, or roughly $10 per month. (What else costs you so little?) Some of you pay slightly less, some slightly more, because some of you pay early, and some of you pay later. And a few of you pay much more because you pay very late - or not at all.
Here is the income we collected in 2015
We are pleased we could reach this goal.)
Here is how we spent your money We spent a total of $597,249.02 against actual income of $618,456.78, for a net income in 2015 of $21,207.76. Reaching a breakeven or net income position in 2015 was one of our major goals. We are proud of having achieved it. Thus we increased our fund balance to $338,281.97 from $317,074.21 at the end of 2014. The details are as follows:
According to our December 31, 2015 balance sheet, the Association’s total income was $618,456.78 in 2015. This compares to a budget income projection of $581,800.00. Thus the Association’s income was about six percent above projections, amounting to $37,456.78. These are the details:
Shortfalls to varying degrees from income projections existed in all but one category: “other.” This category includes chiefly collections from lien releases. Although we had expected to collect past dues and fees amounting to $64,000, the actual number was 207 percent of that amount, or $132,736.28. Our revenue projections from ad sales in Lakes View Magazine were $45,000 based on our prior year’s income, but amounted to only $37,440. (Yet, the magazine still paid for itself and created a net income of $2,276 – see the expenditures section below. Breakeven or income from the magazine was a goal we had set for 2015.
20 Lakes View / Issue 75/ February 2016
Our maintenance expenditures of over $212,000 include grounds keeping, mowing, sidewalk cleaning in and around our main thoroughfares and development entrances and tree removals from green spaces. Although our roads are maintained and paved by Leon County, they do not provide the services mentioned above. Our recreation budget is for the upkeep of our park facilities. While we do collect a small park maintenance fee from major users, this does not cover the entire cost. Leon County would maintain these parks and save us $16,000, if we were to release them for public use by any resident of the County. We think $16,000, or about $3.81 per year per property, or about $1.60 per
year per resident, is worth having better control and restricted access for Killearn Lakes residents only. Our expenses for the lakes vary each year, but the story is the same as with the parks: if we turn the lakes over to Leon County, we will need to remove the access gates and permit anyone to use the lakes. This year, much of our expense for lakes was the stocking of fish, and the purchase and use of chemicals to keep algae in check. Lakefront property owners pay slightly more in annual dues, and thus contribute more toward the lakes budget than the remaining property owners. In addition, we have over the years built up a lakes management reserve of $125,000 to hedge against unforeseeable events, such as dam breaches or extreme water degradation. It is our long-term goal to double this amount, and cap it at one half million dollars eventually. We have used $70,250.00 of our 2015 legal services budget of $74,000. This amount was anticipated because 2015 culminated in the Association’s transfer via eminent domain of property to Leon County for completion of the Beech Ridge Trail Extension and the construction of the roundabout at the Kinhega – Beech Ridge intersection. A relatively small portion of our legal budget typically goes toward creating and applying the paperwork for lien placement and lien releases. Lakes View Magazine continues to be an attractive and striking asset to our community. It supported itself completely from ad revenues in 2015. Expenditures were $35,163.50, and ad revenues amounted to $37,440.20. Please continue to patronize our advertisers!
What’s in Store for 2016? We will continue to pursue collection of delinquent dues via lien issuances and lien cancellations. Also, we will continue our efforts to stay at a breakeven, or finish with a surplus, at the end of 2016. Finally, we reiterate the following guiding principles as budgeting goals and financial management guidelines for the years ahead:
3. The Association will continue to implement a preventive maintenance plan with the 2016 budget and beyond. 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 and premature failures and resultant higher costs. 4. The Association continues its full commitment in 2016 and beyond to conducting the annual Fall Festival and the Kids’ Fishing Contest. (Epiphany Lutheran Church and School will be conducting the Easter Egg Hunt this year and in the future as part of their Outreach Program) 5. 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 2016 budget. 6. We will continue to saddle-stitch Lakes View Magazine to save expenses, distribute it as hard copy, snail-mailed, to all owners’ addresses in 2016. We will 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. Will explore alternative electronic magazine distribution in 2017 and beyond. In conclusion, a big THANK YOU to our Operations Director, Nancy Johnson, and her staff Anne Marshall, Gregory Durant, and Sharon Malloy. Nancy’s diligent and caring day-to-day management of our finances, together with the untiring support of her staff, are a big reason why we met our fiscal goals in 2015. We promise to keep you informed about fiscal matters of the Association in future “It’s Your Money!” articles in Lakes View Magazine. Please contact us with questions.
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. 2. The Association will not deplete its reserves to avoid raising homeowner assessments. If a justifiable dues increase is not acceptable to the homeowners, but needed to maintain current service levels, a priority list will be established of what the Association shall forego and what to keep in order to remain in the black relative to annual income.
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
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Master Builder Best Practices Presents:
Finding and Veing a Builder By: Mark Worley
By far the best referral for a contractor is a friend, neighbor or relative who has completed a construction project that matches your proposed scope of work. There are many contractors in the market that perform and specialize in various projects from kitchen and bath remodeling to new construction. A critical catalyst for a successful project requires that your contractor has the skilled crafts people, job experience and project management in place for a job like the one you are proposing.
How does it work? An owner usually has a “wish list”, and the consultant visits the owners home to assimilate the existing conditions and the desired scope of work. During the site visit, alternatives may be explored and usually include a complete walk thru of the house to see how the proposed renovation will affect the existing structure. The site visit is followed up with a written scope of work and projected cost of the improvements by the consultant.
Researching Your Contractor
Tips for the Home
To verify your contactor’s current license and see if there are any outstanding complaints or disciplinary actions, contact the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). You can either visit the DBPR "services" website, or call the DBPR at 1-850-4871395. Also, if the prospective builder is a member of the Tallahassee Builders Association (TBA), you can visit the TBA’s website at www.tallyba.com. This website is an excellent resource for anyone considering a building project. Finally, check and re-check the credit standing of the builder. A weak or poor credit history reflects their business practices and also the integrity of the builder. Check with all of the material vendors and sub-contractors that will be used on your project.
Cost Feasibility Consultant By hiring a Cost Feasibility Consultant, the owner will receive an impartial, accurate projected construction cost from a seasoned professional that can flush out the projected cost of the improvement prior to the owner committing their time and thousands of dollars to the design process. A consultant can also offer cost saving alternatives and spot existing and potential problems based on prior experience.
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• Check your door weather strips to make sure they are in good condition and not leaking air and water. • Inspect exterior wood doors to ensure there is no water or UV damage occurring. A stained and finished wood door should be re-coated every two to three years, if exposed to direct sun. • HVAC air filters should be changed monthly. Consider installing a whole house filter at the air handler for an extended life span. http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/article/0,,477488-2,00.htm
Design Tip of the Month Consider painting your ceilings a light blue, such as Benjamin Moore - Sweet Bluette #813, cut to a half formula. This light shade of blue will practically match any wall color and will lower expansive high ceilings.
Mark Worley is the only Graduate Master Builder in Tallahassee and one of only 8 statewide. He also holds Certified Aging-in-Place and Green Building Professional designations as recognized by the National Association of Home Builders. You can reach him through his website www.worleyconst.com or at 850-668-3438.
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org 23
We Were Local Before Local Was Cl!
Autonomy & Independence: One of the Seven Cooperative Principles that give all co-ops guidance By: Kim Gay
Whether you travel across the country or prefer to stay close to your hometown, one thing you may be noticing is the emphasis on “Shop Local” campaigns. This idea is based on one simple fact: It is important to support businesses that support our community. Our Members Matter – whether they work for a local business, own a business or support a business.
While there are many similarities between co-ops, the fact that we are controlled locally and exist to improve the quality of life of those we serve, is critically important to how we operate. The Small Business Administration and the research firm Civic Economics estimate that dollars spent at a locally owned business stay in the community more than three times longer than money spent online or at national chain stores, headquartered far away. This means
your community wealth is more likely to grow by shopping locally. Consumer cooperatives, like Talquin Electric, have believed this from the beginning. We were formed in 1940 by people in this community to serve the people that work and live here. While there are many similarities between co-ops, the fact that we are controlled locally and exist to improve the quality of life of those we serve, is critically important to how we operate. The fourth of our Seven Cooperative Principles is: Autonomy and Independence. Cooperatives are autonomous, self-help organizations controlled by their Members. If the co-op enters into agreements with other organizations or raises capital from external sources, it is done so based on terms that ensure democratic control by the Members and maintain the cooperative’s autonomy. In other words, for the co-op to stay a co-op it is vitally important we stay close to you, our Members, to ensure we are continuing to respond to your needs. We do this through increasing energy-efficiency programs, conducting our recent online and telephone surveys, offering renewable sources of energy and continuing our efforts to support other local businesses, schools and civic organizations. You can be sure that Talquin will not be moving our operations to another state or country. We began right here in north Florida, and we plan on being here for a very long time to serve our Membership. As always, we welcome your participation and suggestions about how we can improve our locally owned and controlled services.
How To Use A Modern Roundabout
For Additional information Contact: Leon County Public Works Department 2280 Miccosukee Road Tallahassee, FL 32308 (850) 605-1500 Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org 25
26 Lakes View / Issue 75/ February 2016
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. 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 – 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. BABYSITTER & PETSITTER – Hello my name is Nina, and I am 18 years old.. I'm responsible, good with kids and I can also dog sit! Please Contact me at: (850)228-3669.
BABYSITTER – You do so much for your kids you need a break. I am an experienced 12 year old babysitter. I am CPR trained, American Red Cross certified, reliable, and most of all fun! I am available weekdays 4-7:30 p.m and weekends at any time. I will babysit ages 1-9 and will also babysit babies or toddlers with permission from my parents. Please call Molly Siddall at (850)4459143. BABYSITTER – Experienced, Mature and Responsible recent Chiles Graduate is available for babysitting. Reasonable rates. References available. Call Susanne Childers at (850) 459-4647.
BABYSITTER
Hi! My name is Katelyn McClellan and I am 19 years old. I am great with kids and have babysitting experience. I prefer to babysit kids 4 & older. I live in Golden Eagle and I have a car so I can drive to your house to babysit. Please Call :). My phone number is : (850) 228-6339.
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.
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