׉?ׁB!בCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://26HmusNsQLhzQIJiAQHNVGAMss7ccPuS4qbyHXpx3ycj`׉ 7cassandra://A9KCyiIqOErj6jJBnjANvK_TSv2sGQNKnNqsobg38LY͚`u׉ 7cassandra://USG0IPgPX6wOxSWIt9cgHdYLaHvwKRbB8MHX6NtVAXE3`i,+9%!#טFu׈Hljנi,+9%!#!̾ 9ׁHhttp://www.lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Ј׈Ei,+9%!#׉EwL.A. TIMES Lake Ashton Community Newsletter December 2025 Simply the Best! There's No Place Like LA for the Holidays! 4141 Ashton Club Drive Lake Wales, FL 33859 Lake Ashton is a 55 & Older Deed Restricted Community Dinners & dances parties & performances golf cart parade decorating contest menorah lighting and so much more! 863.324.6032 863.324.5457 www.lakeashtoncdd.com ׉ 7cassandra://USG0IPgPX6wOxSWIt9cgHdYLaHvwKRbB8MHX6NtVAXE3`i,+9%!#i,+9%!#4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://DBHnJwjawdSExL7KDSejSnSAJaNoEWOBMaIf0I8cqnE0`׉ 7cassandra://INTazhS17zaeniMN2RVmn8TKDXg-wEUTbaLbl3j_jWI}`u׉ 7cassandra://eHfE5kzliVmZZmKoFbu6KLvjW-0PZHdYfemh0FWs28A,`i,+9%!#טFu׉׉ 7cassandra://WdH7qFokwwZJzvoUr0ah6RWoMmNbRXwk6NjvaHSBENE[`׉ 7cassandra://EgL-558IItpmKAvDLOOX-tQsAaCcDz2O5P20OmPsJ6E͘ `u׉ 7cassandra://VmbzGIqFueuVk8rcDgbC9xFfI9iXviiuS4nD4Oxm9Gc(`i,+9%!#נi,+9%!$k9ׁHmailto:kshipley@empowerme.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$+̿9ׁHmailto:charmcityfl@gmail.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$9ׁH!mailto:info@lakeashtonstorage.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!#9ׁH mailto:sgoodwin@lakeashtongc.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!#~9ׁHmailto:kevin.baker@troon.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!#L9ׁH!mailto:ipeterson@lakeashtongc.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!#%̠9ׁHhttp://lakeashtonhoa.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!# 9ׁH"mailto:directors@lakeashtonhoa.orgׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!#9ׁH"mailto:lcrespin@lakeashton2cdd.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!#X9ׁHmailto:kfunk@lakeashton2cdd.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!#܁9ׁH"mailto:kvankirk@lakeashton2cdd.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!#y̶9ׁHhttp://lakeashton2cdd.orgׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!#{ҁ9ׁH mailto:mfisher@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!#{u9ׁHmailto:clane@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!#{!9ׁH"mailto:smoreland@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!#{9ׁHmailto:cwells@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!#{_̲9ׁHhttp://lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!#g9ׁH mailto:valerie@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!#X<9ׁH mailto:valerie@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!#X̰9ׁHmailto:cwells@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Ј׉E=YOUR ON-SITE REAL ESTATE OFFICE NO CANCELLATION FEES for Listing Contracts HOME WARRANTY for your New Buyer - up to $650 MOVE-OUT CLEANING 863-318-9542 Lori R., Candra Terri & Sarah Not Pictured: Lori Tofanelli *On Medical Leave Lake Ashton Realty 4140 Ashton Club Drive Lake Wales, FL 33859 www.LakeAshtonRealty.com ׉ 7cassandra://eHfE5kzliVmZZmKoFbu6KLvjW-0PZHdYfemh0FWs28A,`i,+9%!#׉E fNEWSLETTER STAFF Christine Wells Editor cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com 863.324.5457 Valerie LeBlanc Advertising Sales, Layout & Design valerie@lakeashtoncdd.com SUBMISSION GUIDELINES January Issue Deadline: December 12 Articles can be submitted on behalf of Lake Ashton clubs/ groups/organizations to promote lifestyle enhancing, opportunities, and must be approved by the group leader prior to publication Email articles to: valerie@lakeashtoncdd.com 150 word limit. Articles will be edited for length, clarity, and to ensure compliance with districts’ media policies Include your club contact and phone number The writing style is third person — avoid using I, me, my, we, our, or personal pronouns Photo Specifications: All photos must be high-res digital images in “jpeg” format and submitted via email or CD/flash drive Space will generally allow only one photo per article The designer and printer will make the final determination as to the print quality of photographs for publication THE LAKE ASHTON COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT DOES NOT ENDORSE OR SUPPORT ANY PARTICULAR POLITICAL CANDIDATE, PARTY, MEASURE OR ISSUE, OR ANY PRODUCT OR SERVICE. DECEMBER 2025 Lake Ashton employees are at your service. We want your experiences in the Clubhouse, Golf Course and HFC to be as pleasant and memorable as possible! Please do not hesitate to contact us with any comments, questions or concerns. LAKE ASHTON CLUBHOUSE 4141 Ashton Club Drive Lake Wales, FL 33859 Phone: 863-324-5457 lakeashtoncdd.com LACDD Community Director: Christine Wells cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com Clubhouse Office Manager: Sheila Moreland smoreland@lakeashtoncdd.com Clubhouse Activities Assistant: Caroline Lane, 863-324-6032 clane@lakeashtoncdd.com Clubhouse Operations Manager: Matt Fisher, 863-956-6207 mfisher@lakeashtoncdd.com LW Homeowners Association (HOA) Golf Club - Ian Peterson, Head Golf Professional Kevin Baker, GM Eagles Nest - Sandra Goodwin, Manager RV & Storage Center Office Hours Charm City Nik Minadakis, Owner EmpowerMe Wellness LAKE ASHTON HEALTH & FITNESS CENTER (HFC) 6052 Pebble Beach Boulevard Winter Haven, FL 33884 Phone: 863-595-1562 lakeashton2cdd.org LAIICDD Community Director: Karen Van Kirk kvankirk@lakeashton2cdd.com LAIICDD Assistant Community Director: Krystle Funk kfunk@lakeashton2cdd.com HFC Activities Assistant: Louise Crespin lcrespin@lakeashton2cdd.com 863-325-0065 directors@lakeashtonhoa.org lakeashtonhoa.com 863-326-1032 ipeterson@lakeashtongc.com kevin.baker@troon.com 863-326-1085 sgoodwin@lakeashtongc.com 863.326.1304 Tues & Thurs info@lakeashtonstorage.com 8 - 4 pm 863-662-3300 charmcityfl@gmail.com 863-358-0809 kshipley@empowerme.com In case of emergency, dial 911! Lake Wales Police: 863-678-4223 Winter Haven Police: 863-291-5858 Polk County Sheriff: 863-298-6200 3 Thompson Nursery Rd. (LW) Gate House Security: 863-324-7290 County Road 653 (WH) Gate House Security: 863-318-0237 ׉ 7cassandra://VmbzGIqFueuVk8rcDgbC9xFfI9iXviiuS4nD4Oxm9Gc(`i,+9%!#i,+9%!#4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://__r2Dm4le9x3H3hMAggsW5-1PLfq0Xk27h4BZIRZUlkt`׉ 7cassandra://N1sTSN-u9FVAGEsLA_zcyhRi3h-iIkiTGTKhnzGcyzs͂%`u׉ 7cassandra://9q49BU4UY0E2fMVSjtNqMlH0yzdm3MG7la7GgHx6blM&`i,+9%!$טFu׉׉ 7cassandra://7hjc8T-i25L9nK3pw3qYD2wpxhV7mdibkdmtc7Du2MsL`׉ 7cassandra://TcaW8yFUKqg175k4qoNVeGD2yKqfmEXI3R6BbZLlVWoͥ'`u׉ 7cassandra://ANZQeAtBt9pck19NuQqq9pWpcaS_LXFtNq_63MG4cs05`i,+9%!$נi,+9%!$79ׁHmailto:SEALPROORLANDO@GMAIL.COMׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$̾V9ׁHmailto:SEALPROORLANDO@GMAIL.COMׁ ׁ Ј׉EMONDAY COFFEE Meet new neighbors and to hear about local community happenings, community events and receive information on current projects within Lake Ashton. Mondays at 9 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom. BYOCD (Bring Your Own Coffee & Donut). DECEMBER 1 • Birthdays and Anniversaries • Featured Speaker: Weight Watchers • Featured Vendors: Christine Graves Insurance, ComForCare DECEMBER 8 • Bite Me Monday — Donations of pet food and/or supplies for the Humane Society of Polk County • Featured Speaker: CBD Educational Talk Presented by My CBD Store • Featured Vendors: Matt Simpson - Edward Jones, Spring Lake Rehabilitation Center, Iceberg Home Services, Aging Care Experts DECEMBER 15 - NO MONDAY COFFEE - LACDD MEETING • Peanut Butter Monday - Non-perishable food donations will go to the Lake Wales Care Center to distribute to families in need DECEMBER 22 • Happy Holidays Monday Coffee - Come Dressed to Impress for the Holidays and Enjoy FREE BREAKFAST PASTRIES & COFFEE with Staff and Supervisors! • Featured Speaker: AdventHealth • Featured Vendor: Fit Body Boot Camp, Marine Supply DECEMBER 29 - NO MONDAY COFFEE - HAPPY NEW YEAR! IN THIS ISSUE NEWS 6 LA LOOKS 15 SAFETY 18 MOVIES 20 EVENTS 22 CLUBS 30 MIND & BODY 38 GOLF 43 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETINGS LAKE ASHTON (LW) CDD Monday, December 15 9 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom LAKE ASHTON II (WH) CDD Thursday, December 18 9 am at the Health & Fitness Center CIT Y COMMISSION MEETINGS LW: 1st & 3rd Tuesdays at 6 pm, Commission Chambers, Municipal Administration Bldg., 201 W. Central Ave., Lake Wales WH: 2nd & 4th Mondays at 6:30 pm, John Fuller Auditorium in City Hall, 451 3rd St. NW, Winter Haven POLK COUNT Y BOCC MEETINGS 1st & 3rd Tues. , 9 am, Board Room, 330 W. Church St., Bartow ׉ 7cassandra://9q49BU4UY0E2fMVSjtNqMlH0yzdm3MG7la7GgHx6blM&`i,+9%!#׉EZ863-272-0746 SEALPROORLANDO@GMAIL.COM We install flower bed walls WE ARE LICENSED AND INSURED CALL, TEXT, OR EMAIL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE Paver Sealing French Drains and Gutter Connections Paver Installations and Paver Repairs Flooded patios and pavers? We install Channel Drains! 863-272-0746 SEALPROORLANDO@GMAIL.COM 5 Polyaspartic Floor Coatings ׉ 7cassandra://ANZQeAtBt9pck19NuQqq9pWpcaS_LXFtNq_63MG4cs05`i,+9%!#i,+9%!#4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://HU0tKLzDJiB5vk9UfNrg9a47keuFKL2tUmvrI_uWW38"`׉ 7cassandra://mciZ9O8xN5ErGlVZ1KNhEpVu38vgi6Bfi7ucjFuW_54͠o`u׉ 7cassandra://PRqj3sEOffxnmq-rqC_nj812kMnhbByFw6ROI_-N8ZY-`i,+9%!$טFu׉׉ 7cassandra://g0E0P3o__7lt4tWS6fRTJsa-miHXNTt9uedrqRwh4ek`׉ 7cassandra://t7QXezZqM--Qe5af-b9VreuppXwSnh-5L73F5a_2d3g͝ `u׉ 7cassandra://Hm0eu9JNBStjSUdrfh40CoQ-HlCDwi5RIz2DmjnLjjY4`i,+9%!$ נi,+9%!$;:9ׁH"mailto:smoreland@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$^9ׁH'http://www.history.com/topics/holidays/ׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$ ]9ׁH(http://www.history.com/topics/christmas/ׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$ ^E9ׁH'http://www.history.com/topics/holidays/ׁ ׁ Ј׉EHOURS OF OPERATION CLUBHOUSE: 6 am – 10 pm daily CLUBHOUSE OFFICES: 8 am – 4 pm Mon. - Fri. RFID/AMENITY ACCESS CARD HOURS: 10 am-1 pm Tuesday & Wednesday HEALTH & FITNESS CENTER: 5:30 am – 10 pm daily HFC OFFICES & ACTIVITIES DESK: 8 am – 4 pm Monday through Friday HOLIDAY CLOS INGS The Clubhouse and HFC Offices will be closed on Wednesday, December 24 and Thursday, December 25 in observance of Christmas. The Clubhouse Offices will be closed Wednesday, December 31 and Thursday, January 1 in observance of the New Year. The HFC Offices will be closed Thursday, January 1. TRASH PICKUP CHANGES Lake Wales Residents will have their trash picked up on Saturday, December 27 and Saturday, January 3 due to the Christmas and New Year's holidays. Winter Haven Residents will have no changes to their trash pickup. NEW OFFICE HOURS AT THE CLUBHOUSE Effective December 1, the Clubhouse Offices will be open 8 am to 4 pm, Monday through Friday. Staff is available to assist residents outside of these hours, by appointment. 6 HAPPY HANUKKAH, MERRY CHRISTMAS, AND HAPPY KWANZAA Hanukkah (also called Chanukah) is celebrated December 14 - December 22 Visit http://www.history.com/topics/holidays/ hanukkah to learn more about this holiday Christmas is celebrated on December 25 Visit http://www.history.com/topics/christmas/ history-of-christmas to learn more about this holiday Kwanzaa is celebrated December 26 - January 1 Visit http://www.history.com/topics/holidays/ kwanzaa-history to learn more about this holiday BAXTER’ S QUAL ITY MEATS Get fresh poultry, fish, and beef in the Clubhouse West parking lot Wednesdays from 10 am to 2 pm - please note updated hours! Check out the other vendors as well while you are out there! CHANGES TO THE RFID/ AMENITY ACCESS CARD DISTRIBUTION FOR LAKE WALES RES IDENTS There will be no RFID/Amenity Access Card distribution on December 23, 24, 30, or 31. Please plan to get your credentials before this time or schedule an appointment with Sheila by emailing her at smoreland@lakeashtoncdd.com. ׉ 7cassandra://PRqj3sEOffxnmq-rqC_nj812kMnhbByFw6ROI_-N8ZY-`i,+9%!#׉E׉ 7cassandra://Hm0eu9JNBStjSUdrfh40CoQ-HlCDwi5RIz2DmjnLjjY4`i,+9%!#i,+9%!#4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://EASbcP839Cfm2WrdX7BYFqML8tkRW44z3XClHO9NbZUg`׉ 7cassandra://UtaWoaOu2gOP2fzeBSG4vIMfj_OLLNVCZIGM3aP4VKQ͝`u׉ 7cassandra://fgv_VYXV_idxqhV7D6sAeMI5m7S_zEP0vkqp6VecMSE*`i,+9%!$טFu׉׉ 7cassandra://NsQkD1bD0fRGyjI-xy6eupC087RDge7oxYVu5_l2o0I{`׉ 7cassandra://_zRXNORoBdq6nlztoF6n3CMimAwrgbwO_VBNKYWSy8cZ`u׉ 7cassandra://GGHBNrkbJmAqMnjH6lMLjoqIv3BuJUhD7q5ZbaqXoOE`i,+9%!$נi,+9%!$5̰9ׁHhttp://lakeashton2cdd.orgׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$c̬9ׁHhttp://lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$>9ׁH mailto:gulrich@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$̼T9ׁHmailto:steve.lacdd@gmail.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$>9ׁH#mailto:dlandgrebe@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$>9ׁH"mailto:mcostello@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$>\C9ׁH)mailto:brenda.vansickle@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$̉ 9ׁHmailto:cwells@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Ј׉E LACDD NEWS By Christine Wells, LA (LW) CDD Community Director (cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com) LACDD BOARD OF SUP ERVISO RS CONTA CT INF O Brenda Van Sickle, Chair 863-324-6191 brenda.vansickle@lakeashtoncdd.com Michael Costello, Vice Chair 863-875-9228 or 732-718-7431 mcostello@lakeashtoncdd.com Debby Landgrebe, Assistant Secretary 863-268-8193 dlandgrebe@lakeashtoncdd.com Steve Realmuto, Assistant Secretary 863-949-0304, steve.lacdd@gmail.com Office Hours After Monday Coffee in the Clubhouse Ballroom Greg Ulrich, Assistant Secretary 863-969-7595 gulrich@lakeashtoncdd.com LACDD Supervisors would like to wish residents a happy holiday season and best wishes for the New Year! It is a wonderful time of year for residents to reflect on how lucky they are to live in such a beautiful and caring community. Enjoy time with friends and family while basking in the beautiful Florida sun this holiday season. The community entrance and Clubhouse are decked out with lights and holiday décor to add to the festivity of the season. There are several activities scheduled such as the Annual Holiday parade, Outdoor Menorah Lighting, a special holiday movie showing event, and a Holiday Cheer Monday Coffee Extravaganza. Enjoy the most wonderful time of the year at Lake Ashton with friends and family! Some of the most rewarding community traditions involve volunteering and giving to those in need. December 2 is Giving Tuesday, a global day dedicated to giving back. There are several groups within Lake Ashton that residents should consider helping. Think about dropping off a gift to the Lake Wales Care Center Tree in the Ballroom, that benefits local families in need, or donating non-perishable food to the Lake Wales Care Center and The Mission of Winter Haven (See Page 13), or helping out a friend or neighbor in need. While it is the traditional season for celebrating, some in the community are in emotional pain and struggling to get through the month. Grieving friends and neighbors can use some extra care during the holidays. Those who have recently lost loved ones can be helped by others being supportive and inclusive. Suggestions from hospice professionals: invite a neighbor along to a community celebration, ask if they are interested in volunteering, offer to help with decorating or baking, send a special holiday card, or be willing to listen. Lake Ashton is known for being a caring community and there is no better time of year to care for thy neighbor. The LA(LW)CDD Board of Supervisors met on November 17. They approved new office hours at the Clubhouse (see page 6) and a request from Blankets of Love Lake Ashton to dedicate the Craft Room to Patricia “Pat” Neaves. Supervisors heard from the District Engineer on the status of current projects and approved a quote to repair a flume on pond 18 (hole 4) on the East Golf Course. A full wrap up report was sent via email. Please visit lakeashtoncdd.com or lakeashton2cdd.org to find the latest meeting minutes, agendas, and meeting schedule. ׉ 7cassandra://fgv_VYXV_idxqhV7D6sAeMI5m7S_zEP0vkqp6VecMSE*`i,+9%!#׉E׉ 7cassandra://GGHBNrkbJmAqMnjH6lMLjoqIv3BuJUhD7q5ZbaqXoOE`i,+9%!#i,+9%!#4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://qD8zCwh0ZpKGbtAR8MVoEKBVUtsPSUc1ZamivPZZZrs~`׉ 7cassandra://T1RiDFVp9ajgYzDUilwdSLcG4aZeucWKTEz5hnfvLlg͙`u׉ 7cassandra://OcG7qiEqdOx8WYCZzNjZKsv2zW6R9mba9pGZnnbQkUU*`i,+9%!$טFu׉׉ 7cassandra://Ba2MUKPx-yDmCpb5dAbaWe22RyxxiL_z9FIwD74k5jM~`׉ 7cassandra://vToDUq_qV-lAE-OSdoBMRhWIE7k2TbFFRmJRfZ2mlREͷ`u׉ 7cassandra://Y-KGJ30earQ4VtvF9tbzqLTR4S3nFiZO5t3C5WoATqA/`i,+9%!$נi,+9%!$%̲P9ׁHmailto:raull@lakeashton2cdd.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$$9؁9ׁHmailto:duffhill5429@gmail.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$#9`9ׁH!mailto:bmartin@lakeashton2cdd.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$"̰9ׁH"mailto:bzelazny@lakeashton2cdd.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$!̰V̝9ׁHmailto:mecsicsj@msn.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$ ̒#9ׁH"mailto:kvankirk@lakeashton2cdd.comׁ ׁ Ј׉E LAIICDD NEWS By Karen Van Kirk, LAIICDD Community Director (kvankirk@lakeashton2cdd.com) LA II CDD BOARD OF SUP ERVISO RS Jim Mecsics, Chairman Public Safety & District Operations/Programs Office Hours: Tuesdays 9:30 am to 12 pm 863.875.4554, mecsicsj@msn.com Bob Zelazny, Vice Chairman Golf Course, Pro Shop, Eagles Nest, Facilities and Field Operation, Transportation System Office Hours: Mondays 1 to 3 pm 863.325.8098, bzelazny@lakeashton2cdd.com Bill Martin, Assistant Secretary Public Works & Infrastructure, Including Roadways Office Hours: Mondays from 10 to 11 am bmartin@lakeashton2cdd.com Duff Hill, Assistant Secretary Special Projects, Landscaping Area, Pet Play Parks Office Hours: Wednesdays from 11 am to 12 pm duffhill5429@gmail.com Roy Aull, Assistant Secretary Facilities/Amenity Management Office Hours: Friday 9 to 10:30 am 973-670-2709, raull@lakeashton2cdd.com December is a month that sparkles with celebration, warmth, and togetherness. This is especially true at Lake Ashton where residents have formed friendships over the years, and newcomers receive a warm welcome into our piece of paradise. This season encourages us to reconnect. The holiday season also presents an opportunity to express gratitude and give back to our community. Acts of kindness such as volunteering, supporting local initiatives, or simply reaching out to someone in need and highlight the importance of generosity. December serves as a reminder of how even small gestures can have a significant impact on the well-being of those around us. Do not forget to save the dates: The Board of Supervisors LA II CDD has a scheduled meeting for December 18, 2025, at 9:00 am. Be sure to look for emails about this meeting. The HFC is hosting a dance concert (December 5 at 7:00pm) featuring the well-known Majesty of Rock tribute band highlighting Journey and Styx, popular 70’s rock bands. Visit the HFC activities desk to buy your tickets. The HFC’s Jingle Bell Rock dance features Lake Ashton’s own house band, Perfect Pitch, performing on December 19 at 7:00 pm. Stop by the HFC to reserve a table or buy a ticket at the door. There are a several tables left for the HFC’s New Year’s Eve Party featuring Big Time Jukebox. Ring in the New Year with great music, delicious Hors D’oeuvres featuring a carving board station of turkey, ham and top round along with a scrumptious dessert spread. Festivities begin at 8:00 pm, ending with a champagne toast at midnight on December 31. This year has brought many changes and developments at Lake Ashton’s Health & Fitness Center. As we reflect on the events of 2025, we also anticipate the possibilities and excitement that the new year, 2026, will bring. Together, we celebrate our achievements and look forward to continued growth and community engagement in the coming months. The staff of LA IICDD BOS and the HFC staff wish you a season of joy and happy holidays, and a safe, healthy, and happy new year to all. ׉ 7cassandra://OcG7qiEqdOx8WYCZzNjZKsv2zW6R9mba9pGZnnbQkUU*`i,+9%!#׉E nHAVE VISITORS? December is a traditional time for residents to host family and friends. Remember, when you see a visiting grandchild, they are guests of your neighbors so please extend every courtesy possible. Residents: please be tolerant of extra activity at the pool and other amenities. Those hosting family should remind them to be considerate of residents in this 55 and older community. Guests must be accompanied by an adult 21 and older if under the age of 18. Anyone using amenities at the Clubhouse or HFC should have a Lake Ashton Resident Amenity Access Card or Facilities Guest Pass. All guests can be registered at either Activities Desk during business hours. Residents can call security (number on page 3) to register their guests after hours. Renters must have a copy of their fully executed rental agreement. Visit the Clubhouse Office to get your resident amenity access card (which also serves as your Resident Photo ID Card) made during the published hours for distribution or by appointment. Bring a driver's license with your Lake Ashton address on it, or the warranty deed for your home. RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT By Marianne Zak Retired locomotive engineer, Wendie Anderson, from Back Nine Drive, has lived in Lake Ashton since 2019. Her story begins studying the art of dance at her mother's dance studio in Depew, NY. When her mother died of breast cancer at 38, Wendie was 13. She moved to Orlando, FL at 16. With her father's backing, she opened Regent Dance Studio in 1968 until 1976. With over 500 students in 8 years, they performed at nursing homes, hospitals and recitals. With an open heart, she taught blind and disabled girls the art of dance. A pigtailed tomboy, Wendie worked alongside her father rebuilding gasoline engines and studied diesel engines "on my own”. Her nickname was Greasy because she "didn't care if she got dirty". Her interest in engines took her on her journey as a l o c omo t i v e engineer. Hired in 1977 by the Seaboard Coast Line Railroad (CSX), she began her career as a switchman and a trainman. She threw switches and coupled and uncoupled cars to build trains and delivered cars to industries. Wendie then transferred to engine service, hostling engines with fuel and sand. Wendie went to engineer training for six months learning to operate a train. As an engineer, she hauled up to 200 cars at a time. Many folks would point and say, "That's a woman running that train". Indeed, she was the first female in engine service on the Seaboard Coast Line Railroad. Wendie was nicknamed Broken Rail because she was very observant of track conditions. Through her persistence, she was responsible for the installation of hand brakes on all CSX locomotives. An advocate for railroading, Wendie said, "I wrote editorials galore" in defense of trains. When a newspaper headline states that a train hit a vehicle, she points out that the headline is misleading. One editorial headline was "Americans Should Appreciate the Nation's Backbone". Dancer, teacher and locomotive engineer, Wendie drove her last train pulling 149 cars in 2009. Now retired, she recently was invited to speak at the Central Florida Railroad Museum. You can meet Wendie at Monday morning coffee or the Singles Club. Just look for her beautiful braids. We n d i e i s pictured here as a child, third from left in the front row. Her mother was also pictured in the row behind her with the arrow pointing at her. ׉ 7cassandra://Y-KGJ30earQ4VtvF9tbzqLTR4S3nFiZO5t3C5WoATqA/`i,+9%!#āi,+9%!#Á4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://jFp4aX2326hF-to4tHf4_iE3PQPhT5KhDEMmA39eGj8`׉ 7cassandra://j_fzrb4zYLf4sY4qh47arD4P4Fpe8jpz-FnIki1an7k`x`u׉ 7cassandra://E6Fbb1rxuqZr5DJ54X5z65C2OX2kgcjHXDVbI55iUsQ$`i,+9%!$&טFu׉׉ 7cassandra://UuRe8ymRe2Q2QDi1wuunxV57WPdmAya3gOyQUaYi2G0#`׉ 7cassandra://nzJppSFEHI8wrJts-K2i-nIj0PyDlDLgou8jgYV3xeIͧ`u׉ 7cassandra://NRWbJS4X6Xgeqdl7T8jJtPq-HV1Isfj3i_J_nBp5aEI1G`i,+9%!$'׉E12 ׉ 7cassandra://E6Fbb1rxuqZr5DJ54X5z65C2OX2kgcjHXDVbI55iUsQ$`i,+9%!#׉EGIVING TUESDAY There is so much to be thankful for and so many blessings to count! In the spirit of Giving Tuesday on December 2, consider giving to the many organizations supported by Lake Ashton Clubs, as identified in this edition of the LA Times. Giving doesn't always involve money or tangible items. The gift of time is often the most valuable. HOLIDAY FOOD DRIVE For the month of December, non-perishable food donations will be accepted all month long to be donated to the Lake Wales Care Center and the Mission of Winter Haven. Please drop off donations to the Ballroom Kitchen in the Clubhouse CARING TREE It's that time of year again. The Caring Tree is up and open for business. Please feel free to take one, two or as many as you want to provide Christmas presents to The Care Center clients. Make sure they are new and not wrapped and under the tree so we can deliver them before the Big Day. The deadline is December 22. HOMELESS GRADUAT ING SENIORS It is hard to believe we are fast approaching 2026. Seems we are ushering in a year of many changes, but one constant seems to be the number of homeless. We will have approximately 120 to 130 homeless seniors this year with about 20% that are not only homeless but have no family. Many ask me, ‘where do they stay?’ The answer is shelters, friends and sadly the street. But they are succeeding with good grades and college prospects. That is why your support is so important! With your help we will supply them with a duffel bag containing domestic items, a laptop for their hopeful future education and hopefully some scholarships. Any donations or domestic items can be left at either Activities Desk or contact Doris Reisinger at 217-652-6636 to arrange pickup. She will also be at Monday Coffees starting in January. LALGA WE CARE FOR KIDS TOY DRIVE The annual We Care for Kids Toy Drive is December 2 through 12. Toys are collected to bring some joy to the lives of needy tots through teens across Polk County. Drop off your new unwrapped toys/gifts at the Pro Shop. ׉ 7cassandra://NRWbJS4X6Xgeqdl7T8jJtPq-HV1Isfj3i_J_nBp5aEI1G`i,+9%!#Ɓi,+9%!#Ł4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://vlkSnoP7hFh5q88fwHYTlzs7WFbZcNp-vKQTb6syAS86`׉ 7cassandra://wl3yEab5T5nJF1eQ98scxMXdhyMFYMLV-gHSpWIWqXc̈́G`u׉ 7cassandra://bwQGgCU7MDr31ezwrIzB6094ooXlMmEyyNR1kHy1Xnc/u`i,+9%!$)טFu׉׉ 7cassandra://dFMGGZKV1GHJ64HtYyIp7-YWqGtaolCzRN9rqj8V_qU`׉ 7cassandra://nRbeOwSpuBfhqO40KaD6kmFYNzINRxp0o7jNoq9XkYkͦ`u׉ 7cassandra://iCSPAsnReKB9GxcaACvO1QUd3iL7WLNxAw1Qya5CGN0-R`i,+9%!$*נi,+9%!$,ˁ9ׁH mailto:mfisher@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Ј׉E14 ׉ 7cassandra://bwQGgCU7MDr31ezwrIzB6094ooXlMmEyyNR1kHy1Xnc/u`i,+9%!#׉E SL.A. LOOKS Wildlife Corner Photo & Article By Barbara Ann Comer The Snowy Egret is the small delicate white Egret found at Lake Ashton. In breeding plumage it takes on a sassy appearance with frazzled-looking plumes about its head giving it an angry demeanor. It is easily identified by the small size, black bill, black legs and those "golden slippers." In high breeding plumage the usually yellow lores (area in front of the bill) turn red and the feet orange. Found at any body of water at Lake Ashton year round it will often sit still at the edge of the water waiting for an unsuspecting small fish to swim by. Sometimes they forage actively in the shallow water walking or running about. They will also stir the bottom of the pond with their yellow feet to scare up prey like fish, insects and crustaceans into action. Like other birds in the heron family, they nest in colonies usually mixed in with other species. LA (LW) HOA CORNER By Deanne Mayne The HOA sends holiday greetings to all. This is such a festive time of year and it's fun to see all the decorations for the season. For December the HOA will be checking homes for flags, mulch, signs, and backyards. The only approved flags on flagpoles or garages are the US flag, the Florida state flag, U.S. military flags, the POW-MIA flag, and first responder flags. If you desire flags for your favorite team or a "welcome sign", they must be garden flags no larger than 12" by 18”. Finally, clarification regarding backyards: If your backyard is visible (corner lots or homes that are visible from the cart paths) the same guidelines apply for what is allowed in the front yard. Remember, your backyard is visible to your neighbor's yard. WHAT IS THE "LITTORAL SHELF" AND WHAT MAKES IT SIGNIFICANT? The portion of the perimeter of a pond that slopes down is called the littoral area. It's also known as the shallow area close to the shore. The littoral shelf looks like a small wetland when it is healthy. A lot of natural aquatic plants, like Bulrush, Pickerel Weed, and Duck Potato, do well in these places. The littoral shelf has many benefits, such as better water quality because it supports beneficial species that consume the nutrients that help algae and invasive aquatic weeds grow. The shelf also filters the water before it leaves the pond through a flow structure and helps to keep the shoreline in place, which reduces erosion. Behind Limerick Drive and behind Litchfield Loop, you can find littoral shelfs in Lake Ashton. The picture shows that Sandhill Cranes love to build their nests in the littoral shelf behind Limerick Drive. Email Matt Fisher at mfisher@lakeashtoncdd.com if you have any questions or concerns. Mulch often needs to be refreshed and may be done by your lawn care team or yourself. Please note that all mulch visible from the street or cart paths must be the same variety. Acceptable mulch varieties can be found in the ARC Guidelines. A reminder about signs: The only signs allowed are home security signs near the entrance to your home. All other signs are not approved and need to be removed. (Pesticide signs are allowed for the day of application.) ׉ 7cassandra://iCSPAsnReKB9GxcaACvO1QUd3iL7WLNxAw1Qya5CGN0-R`i,+9%!#ȁi,+9%!#ǁ4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://yl0eoM2bqmbI2d6caInsLn8T6tdFC8wvnEw0KABmrH8S`׉ 7cassandra://t1pOvPOXHULGHgNJLw8K-cck8FBkpnLjbYEsoFAz2jMv'`u׉ 7cassandra://iEgCYl343fAc_ev3vIzQCg25xYhl9X7Khe660cJo1LE),`i,+9%!$-טFu׉׉ 7cassandra://HwungsPlmdA80v79zj_tGIn-D4u2A6ynS1GHQXUFAoQ`׉ 7cassandra://KT2jGMi4y8v_t3XN2a3NtT-R4Jcn6JA8rziwur6DY-0ͬ`u׉ 7cassandra://DYtah1X8Jyuz-vpqy0w_KTd9I5K6Yf7BzlU7RjCWjwQ3`i,+9%!$.נi,+9%!$1_9ׁHmailto:A3LAWHARC@gmail.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$0:R9ׁH&https://www.arctracker.com/lakeashton2ׁ ׁ Ј׉E]A Joyous Hol iday Season The Bes t of 2026 to Al l BRAD KIRWAN Broker Assoc. 863.280.0390 16 ׉ 7cassandra://iEgCYl343fAc_ev3vIzQCg25xYhl9X7Khe660cJo1LE),`i,+9%!#׉ErLA II (WH) HOA/ARC QUICK REFERENCE SHEET By Stephanie Iszak Confused about the ARC tracker request process? We’ve got you covered. This quick re f e re n c e sheet walks you through the key steps of the ARC tracker request process. All proposed changes to the home's exterior or landscaping, e.g., painting (change or same color), shape, footprint, or external appearance (including driveways), requires prior ARC approval. Submit requests at https://www.arctracker.com/lakeashton2 or scan this QR code. Quick Request Process: Step 1: Homeowner submits an ARC tracker request (if applicable, include pictures, site plan, etc…). Step 2: If everything is in order, ARC “Approves” the request. Any questions, ARC will post it in the ARC tracker and an email will be sent to the homeowner. Step 3: Once ARC approves your ARC tracker request, it is OK to “Begin Work” Step 4: Once the work is completed, please change the status of your ARC tracker to “Work Complete” Step 5: An ARC rep will stop by your home. If everything is done according to the ARC tracker request, we will give final approve for the changes. If there are any issues we will discuss with the homeowner before failing the request. It’s that simple! If you have questions about the change you are making, the current version of the ARC II Rules and Guidelines can be accessed from the ARC tracker application. ARC is also available to help answer questions and guide you. The chairman can be reached at: A3LAWHARC@gmail.com 10 Y WARRANTY * x staed Ldig the Idy i L s Q y Apollo E 13 Ih Th 7 e c , P k ueoo C : 86339531 LITHIUM BATTERY 0 G 5 YEAR WARRANTY Ce C $2200* ׉ 7cassandra://DYtah1X8Jyuz-vpqy0w_KTd9I5K6Yf7BzlU7RjCWjwQ3`i,+9%!#ʁi,+9%!#Ɂ4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://yxGW_vu-L1rjXt32wPILA4c-xwT3UG21octVMFeA-_M:`׉ 7cassandra://20v5UoDsxzcx_NheNBKZ76pcOlteXV_TgULxPg0iytgͷ{`u׉ 7cassandra://oJ0OrLdIvMkmt_stjRF8PCBe8s59RJAzFDYgQyjwWPU2`i,+9%!$2טFu׉׉ 7cassandra://pZY62Up8EE0AIz2UJAuPeO2iuNb16xfj_-wG8TrmC5M`׉ 7cassandra://ZkMkSC5KvrD8olF_FTMN3g_VtQlSULzlAeDzd_b5wE4ͱ`u׉ 7cassandra://HUYWAg4usvUYkMLPXsup8FtsLJLgunL_QFKrEvS4Cdg8S`i,+9%!$3נi,+9%!$6Cց̈9ׁHhttp://advisories.htׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$5C̼9ׁH(http://travel.state.gov/en/internationalׁ ׁ Ј׉E uSAFETY NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH (NW) CORNER By Fay Wood, NW Chief Holiday Crime Prevention: Part Three The holiday season is upon us and unfortunately it is the time of the year that criminals take advantage of citizens. This is part three of our holiday crime prevention series. Traveling within the USA • Secure your home before you leave. Check the doors and windows to make sure they are locked and if you have an alarm system, use it! • Check appliances, electronics and electrical equipment are either unplugged or shut off. • If you have packages scheduled while you are away, make sure you ask a friend of neighbor to pick them up for you. • Let your Neighborhood Watch Block Captain know you will be away and when you will return. • Stop all mail with the Post Office. • Give your itinerary along with contact information to a designated family member or friend. • If you are driving, make sure your vehicle is up to date with preventative maintenance. • Plan your route, along with alternatives to compensate for the increased holiday traffic. • Keep presents and valuables in the trunk while you are traveling. • Always be aware of your surroundings and secure all valuables while you are in hotels, etc. Traveling outside the USA • Make sure all your official identification (passports, visa, etc.) are up to date. • Make copies of your passport, itineraries, drivers license and give it to a trusted family member or friend. • Ensure you are up to date on any vaccinations you may require. Additionally, if you have any existing medical conditions check with your provider for any precautions. • Be sure to check with the US State Department for any travel advisories to the location you are going. A great resource is https:// travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/traveladvisories.html. • Enroll in airline notifications to inform you of any travel changes in flight times or status. • Do the same things at your residence as if you were traveling state-side (see above). • Always be aware of your surroundings and if something does not appear or feel right, either notify authorities or leave the area immediately. The Holidays are a fun time to visit with family, friends or travel to exciting places. Please use these hints to keep you and your family safe and secure. On behalf of your Lake Ashton Neighborhood Watch Team, have a safe and wonderful Holiday Season! POND SAFETY REMINDER Visitors are not permitted to wade or release pets into any of the ponds located within Lake Ashton. Not only is there a potential of encountering alligators and venomous snakes, harmful germs may be present as well. The FWC recommends keeping pets 10' away from the water. For residents who have concerns with an alligator that poses a threat to humans, pets or property, call the FWC's Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (392-4286). Remember, it is illegal to feed or harass alligators. All vehicles, including golf carts, must obey all stop signs and the 20 mph speed limit throughout Lake Ashton. A person operating a golf cart on public roads or streets who is under 18 years must possess a valid learner’s permit or driver’s license. ׉ 7cassandra://oJ0OrLdIvMkmt_stjRF8PCBe8s59RJAzFDYgQyjwWPU2`i,+9%!#׉ESAFEGUARD YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION Please remember to log out of all online accounts when you are finished using the computers in the Media Centers. This includes email providers, shopping sites, banking sites, and social media accounts. In the interest of your safety and security, passwords should never be saved on a shared computer. Please see Staff if you have any questions. INCIDENT REPORTING Any incident that occurs at the Clubhouse, HFC, or surrounding amenities should be reported to Security AFTER calling 911, if needed. Security is available 24 hours a day (see phone numbers on page 3). If reporting the incident immediately is not possible, please contact Sheila Moreland at 863-324-5457 as soon as you are able. It is important to document any incident, whether a substantial injury or a minor bruise. The process takes only about five minutes, and the information gathered is helpful in identifying potential areas that need attention. ׉ 7cassandra://HUYWAg4usvUYkMLPXsup8FtsLJLgunL_QFKrEvS4Cdg8S`i,+9%!#́i,+9%!#ˁ4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://NCLgwlRzJ0G65L_FHpp4dWKAM2rWUcqfBL29_z7OAkk~`׉ 7cassandra://y01ytriweFvYFgEuI0Vym90jI-7JTQPgmRwryjdoLAoͺ`u׉ 7cassandra://C7kbf9vdRkO3Aifgid6fzGM_9Rk1nZqnk5G7-ylgVLM2k`i,+9%!$9טFu׉׉ 7cassandra://mqIZjoxaO8uhApIOosKqijiI0Thf_iBSWQ1epqx5VY0&`׉ 7cassandra://W5ybbkKNA0geQ-NIKunxgxRh9OC7KIHfQT3NimAmkj4ͫ!`u׉ 7cassandra://IvmfN_k1tjBYjhod_TAfu74wlXMj4-H_3l8IxoChFlc1n`i,+9%!$:נi,+9%!$=9ׁH http://WindowWorldPolkCounty.comׁ ׁ Ј׉E 8MOVI ES PLEASE NOTE: We are experimenting with a new format for movie showings in the Cinema. If you have input about the changes, please email cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com. New movies will be shown on Tuesdays and Wednesdays only. Classic movies (listed on the next page) will be shown Thursdays and Fridays. There are no more 11 am showings — 3 & 7 pm showings only, except as notated. All 3 pm showings and all Tuesday showings are closed captioned. Cinema capacity: 55 DECEMBER 2 — 3 AT 3 & 7 PM DOWNTON ABBEY: THE GRAND FINALE 2025 | PG | 2H 3MIN The Crawley family and their staff enter the 1930s. When Mary finds herself at the center of a public scandal and the family faces financial trouble, the entire household grapples with the threat of social disgrace. The Crawleys must embrace change as the staff prepares for a new chapter with the next generation leading Downton Abbey into the future. DECEMBER 9 — 10 AT 3 & 7 PM OH. WHAT. FUN. 2025 | PG-13 | 1H 52MIN Claire Clauster (Michelle Pfeiffer) is the glue that holds her chaotic, lovable family together every holiday season. From perfectly frosted cookies to meticulously wrapped gifts, no one decks the halls quite like Claire. But this year, as her grown kids and distracted husband get swept up in their own seasonal 20 dramas, they make one crucial mistake: they forget their mom. By the time they realize she's missing, Claire's already set off on a festive adventure of her own -- one that doesn't involve cooking, cleaning, or coordinating anyone else's chaos. As her family scrambles to find her and salvage their Christmas, Claire rediscovers what the holidays mean when you're finally free to put yourself first. DECEMBER 16 — 17 AT 3 & 7 PM WAKE UP DEAD MAN: A KNIVES OUT MYSTERY 2025 | PG-13 | 2H 20MIN Southern-fried sleuth Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) is on the case when young priest Father Jud (Josh O'Connor) is accused of killing his fire-and-brimstone boss (Josh Brolin). Glenn Close, Kerry Washington, Jeremy Renner and Andrew Scott are among the all-star parishioners/suspects in Rian Johnson's third "Knives Out" murder mystery. DECEMBER 23 AT 3 & 7 PM (NO SHOWINGS DECEMBER 24) FREAKIER FRIDAY 2025 | PG | 1H 50MIN 22 years after Tess (Jamie Lee Curtis) and Anna (Lindsay Lohan) endured an identity crisis, Anna now has a daughter and a soon-to-be stepdaughter. As they navigate the challenges that come when two families merge, Tess and Anna discover that lightning might strike twice. DECEMBER 30 AT 3 & 7 PM (NO SHOWINGS DECEMBER 31) GOODBYE JUNE 2025 | R | 1H 54MIN Oscar winner Kate Winslet marks her directorial debut with this emotional Christmas drama. She also stars alongside Toni Collette, Andrea Riseborough and Johnny Flynn as siblings dealing with hard feelings and impending loss when they reunite for one last holiday season with their dying mother (Helen Mirren). ׉ 7cassandra://C7kbf9vdRkO3Aifgid6fzGM_9Rk1nZqnk5G7-ylgVLM2k`i,+9%!#׉E NEW!! TIMELESS THURSDAYS FEATURE FILM FRIDAYS DECEMBER 5 & 12 — NO MOVIES DECEMBER 4 AT 3 PM, 7 PM IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE 1946 | PG | 2H 9MIN After George Bailey (James Stewart) wishes he had never been born, an angel (Henry Travers) is sent to earth to make George's wish come true. George starts to realize how many lives he has changed and impacted, and how they would be different if he was never there. DECEMBER 11 (NO 7 PM) THE POLAR EXPRESS 2004 | G | 1H 40MIN Get in the magical mood for the Christmas Dinner Dance on December 12! When a doubting young boy takes a train ride to the North Pole, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. DECEMBER 18 AT 3 & 7 PM MENORAH IN THE MIDDLE 2021 | PG | 1H 28MIN This year for Hanukkah, Sarah is headed back home with her new fiancé, Chad, to meet her parents. Things go haywire when she discovers the family’s bakery is in danger of closing down. Her father has a heart attack, and her fiancé is the one planning to take over the family business. All seems lost until she runs into her old school friend, Ben, who tries to help her save the bakery while also showing her the true meaning of love, family, and the spirit of Hanukkah. DECEMBER 25 — NO MOVIE MERRY CHRISTMAS! DECEMBER 19 AT 3 PM (NO 7 PM) HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS 2000 | PG | 1H 45 MIN In this live-action adaptation of the Dr. Seuss tale, the reclusive green Grinch (Jim Carrey) decides to ruin Christmas for the cheery citizens of Whoville. Reluctantly joined by his hapless dog, Max, the Grinch comes down from his mountaintop home and sneaks into town to swipe everything holiday-related from the Whos. However, the bitter grump finds a hitch in his plans when he encounters the endearing Cindy Lou Who (Taylor Momsen). DECEMBER 26 AT 3 & 7 PM TRADING PLACES 1983 | R | 1H 56MIN Upper-crust executive Louis Winthorpe III (Dan Aykroyd) and down-and-out hustler Billy Ray Valentine (Eddie Murphy) are the subjects of a bet by successful brokers Mortimer (Don Ameche) and Randolph Duke (Ralph Bellamy). An employee of the Dukes, Winthorpe is framed by the brothers for a crime he didn't commit, with the siblings then installing the street-smart Valentine in his position. When Winthorpe and Valentine uncover the scheme, they set out to turn the tables on the Dukes. Lifetime Limited Warranty Guaranteed Low Pricing 12 Months No Interest1 Free No-obligation In-home Quotes 863-400-5082 • WindowWorldPolkCounty.com 101 Industrial Blvd. West, Winter Haven, FL This Window World® franchise is independently owned and operated by Window World of Polk County Inc. d/b/a Window World of Lakeland under license from Window World Inc. Fully licensed & insured. License No. CBC1257854 Previous sales are excluded and offers cannot be combined. Minimum 10% down required when ordering. ¹No interest if paid in full within 12 months with regular monthly payments. Bank approval needed. Must qualify. Ask for details. ׉ 7cassandra://IvmfN_k1tjBYjhod_TAfu74wlXMj4-H_3l8IxoChFlc1n`i,+9%!#΁i,+9%!#́4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://rvWXpL5RA2DdTZ9x8LE__rZgH3uRbCVeTaCVruulF9I+1`׉ 7cassandra://rhS-S64iHzTopHuVPLhDczJZLUHIyk5dbW2NzFSgdgoͱ`u׉ 7cassandra://4YEbVlDC6SLSdGi8aAT22fizbk-9M92Ljw0zeCjt5oo0`i,+9%!$>טFu׉׉ 7cassandra://8GzT4lUW3ZM_-6alDEQt7DEpzRWMVLJ9aY8MPqytsWwY`׉ 7cassandra://yTuL8n2an0OWyUPZRrBYw4ATHIkB3QQivB8blshTY1Yͩ`u׉ 7cassandra://FvM1zWBUqyxWfYfjrKra8HUzAQMI0nG9dASFussuO985`i,+9%!$?נi,+9%!$CHr9ׁHmailto:cbbishop61@gmail.comׁ ׁ Ј׉E EVENTS SCAN WITH YOUR SMARTPHONE TO SIGN UP FOR CLASSES & EVENTS AT THE CLUBHOUSE! When purchasing tickets, please DO NOT go directly to ticketleap.com. Scan the above QR code with the palm tree in the middle or go to https://linktr.ee/lakeashtoncdd. This will lead you to a list with all of the links to anything you want to sign up for or purchase tickets for, including but not limited to CDD events, Lake Ashton Getaways, LAPAC, etc. 2026 ENTER T A INMENT SERIES TICKETS New season tickets are on sale online and at the Clubhouse Activities Office through December 5 . Season tickets are sold only to Lake Ashton residents. There is a limit of one ticket per resident. In order to expedite season ticket sales, please have a Lake Ashton photo identification on hand or a driver's license with a Lake Ashton address to purchase tickets with Visa, MasterCard or check payable to LACDD. Tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis. Individual tickets, if available, will go on sale January 12. Please stay tuned to email blasts for more information on individual ticket sales. These tickets will be available online and at the Clubhouse Activities Office. CHRISTMAS DINNER DANCE By Debby Landgrebe This year’s Believe Christmas Dinner Dance is Friday, December 12 — doors open at 5 pm with dinner starting at approximately 5:15 pm. Tickets will not be sold at the door and very few tickets are available with the possibility of a waitlist being created. Come dressed to impress in your finest outfits. Music will be provided by B.Haven, one of Central Florida’s premier bands. A delicious dinner will be hosted by our own Charm City including a plated salad, rolls, prime rib beef carving station, along with, seasonal vegetables, roasted potatoes and dessert. A cash bar will be available. Live music and dancing will continue until 10 pm. Keep an eye out for a special movie showing of The Polar Express on December 11 in the Cinema to get you in the magical mood. Thank you to our Premier Sponsors: Performance Carts, Dental Solutions of Winter Haven, Waters Edge, Huston Cadillac. Sponsors: Art’s Golf Cars, Patton Tires, Cuttin Up Salon on Cypress, EmpowerMe & Christine Graves Insurance.We couldn’t do this without our Sponsors, Committee Members, Residents or Clubhouse Staff. For more information call Debby Landgrebe at 863-268-8193. OUTDOOR MENORAH LIGHTING This year, Hanukkah begins the evening of Monday, December 14, and ends the evening of Monday, December 22. Everyone is welcome to celebrate Hanukkah, which is Hebrew for “dedication,” and also known as the Festival of Lights, by coming to an outdoor Menorah Lighting, on December 16 at 5:30 pm in the Clubhouse West Parking Lot. This is presented by the Chabad Jewish Center. ׉ 7cassandra://4YEbVlDC6SLSdGi8aAT22fizbk-9M92Ljw0zeCjt5oo0`i,+9%!#׉EAN N U AL H O L I D A Y G O L F CART PARADE The Holiday Golf Cart Parade will be Friday, December 19. Parade line-up will begin at 5:30 pm at the HFC and the parade will start at 6 pm. Parade route: HFC down Pebble Beach Blvd past dog park, Right on Torrey Pines Ln, Left on Dunmore, Right on Limerick Dr, Right back onto Dunmore, Right on Ashton Club Dr to the Clubhouse, where there will be a Cookies and Cocoa Reception following the parade. ALL ARE WELCOME! Thank you to our sponsor: Performance Golf Carts Bakers needed to fill our table with yummy goodies Cookies can be dropped off on the 19th between 1 and 3 pm at the Clubhouse. Contact Carolyn Bishop to help or with questions at 919-606-8844 or cbbishop61@gmail.com Great Holiday Lights Tour Residents can vote for their favorite house on the tour from December 1 – 17. The winner will be announced at the Holiday Golf Cart Parade on December 19. Stay tuned to email blasts for voting instructions and house map. ׉ 7cassandra://FvM1zWBUqyxWfYfjrKra8HUzAQMI0nG9dASFussuO985`i,+9%!#Ёi,+9%!#ρ4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://dWqLaR-prOCBV2-BhLMOxGTR9bwoSbd2skQDzfn0fTMW`׉ 7cassandra://Go8fwD-h0zuzjzUM9Rv0iNxXbO6M1pI4v3iBs3gnpeAͥ.`u׉ 7cassandra://JcXCXecfDrlZZvfFPDenxvjlKuBIE_nPYXgDNNp1lAo3`i,+9%!$DטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://_ZaMdfjUdjlrbvmqqtkhdbLEMyCAoU66hnoOIzojiP8T1`׉ 7cassandra://gl4Bge9QWSmnSSzo3S0PVCL6DDODXn7J4mM3WP6r61Qʹ`u׉ 7cassandra://3d5sVlnqPIROPGwS_HOQbC6yf9AeyhgQNxuXLKdn7Us/`i,+9%!$Eנi,+9%!$J>9ׁHhttp://www.polkseniorgames.orgׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$I>ځ9ׁH"mailto:PolkSeniorGames50@gmail.comׁ ׁ Ј׉EdCAROL-O-KEE By Cheryl Winchester Hello to all of Lake Ashton. Can you believe it is that time again! Lake Ashton Performing Arts Corp. (LAPAC) is holding another FREE Carol-O-Kee event on Saturday, December 13 from 7 to 10 pm at the HFC. This event is a thank you to our Lake Ashton Family for always supporting us! Tickets will be available online starting December 1. ASHTONES PERFORMANCE By Danny Krueger A special Sunday Brunch at Charm City on December 14 will feature The Ashtones Quartet singing Christmas carols and other stuff table-side from 1 to 3 pm. The quartet is really good, (who is writing this?), and is available for holiday parties. Contact: Danny Krueger 414-651-8888, cofcrsccl@gmail.com. 2026 FINE ARTS & PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW By Lyn Davis Calling all Lake Ashton Photographers and Artists! Time to get busy with your cameras and paint brushes. The 18th Annual Lake Ashton Fine Arts & Photography Show is coming up March 14, 2026. Applications and more information will be available December 1. MURDER MYSTERY MASQUERADE Everyone loves a good murder mystery! Join in on the mysterious masked fun on January 16 in the Clubhouse Ballroom at 7 pm. Enjoy delectable desserts and drinks from the cash bar while trying to figure out who dunnit. No need to dress on theme, but it is always more fun when you play the part! Tickets go on sale online December 2 for $30. ׉ 7cassandra://JcXCXecfDrlZZvfFPDenxvjlKuBIE_nPYXgDNNp1lAo3`i,+9%!#׉E CHILI COOK-OFF By David Harrison The LA Purple Stars will, once again, have their Chili Cook-Off on January 23, 2026 from 4 to 6 pm in the Clubhouse Ballroom. This event is our first fundraiser of the year for The American Cancer Society. We invite up to twenty residents to make chili for tasting. Tasting tickets are available for purchase online — 6 for $5 or 12 for $10. Tasting tickets will also be sold at Monday Coffee. Please sign up to cook chili or donate baked goods online. Charm City is our sponsor and they will be selling beer for $4 a cup. We will be selling cornbread, water and baked goods for $1. There will be judges for the best and second best chili and a Peoples Choice award. You have to use a tasting ticket for each chili so buy them to help us raise money for this worthy cause. Contact David Harrison 863-326-6418 with questions. LAKE ASHTON CLUB FAIR New residents and long-time residents who want to make new friends or are interested in more information about Lake Ashton Clubs, Groups or Organizations, plan to attend this Fair on January 29 in the Clubhouse Ballroom from 10 am to 12 pm. Residents will be able to meet representatives, ask questions, sign up for membership or purchase tickets to club events. Light refreshments will be available for all attendees. Clubs, Groups, and Organizations interested in having a table should register online, or at the Clubhouse Activities Office beginning December 1. This is a great time to grow membership and attract new members whether you facilitate an exercise group, public safety group, sports activity, or arts and crafts group. Space is limited so don't wait to sign up online or at the Clubhouse Activities Office. MID-ATLANTIC PARTY By David Harrison It's time to have fun again at the Mid-Atlantic Party on Sunday February 1, 2026 at 5 pm in the HFC Community Center. Anyone who has ever lived or worked in Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania or New Jersey is invited. The menu consists of fried chicken, homemade crab cake and a soft drink for $20. Tickets go on sale Monday, December 1 at the HFC Activities Desk with a check payable to Mid-Atlantic Party. Choose white or dark meat chicken when you sign up. Please bring a salad, side, or dessert to serve eight and a serving utensil. There are only 120 tickets available, so buy yours early. February 1 is the Sunday before Super Bowl, and there is no football. This is a great way to meet friends from your state. Contact David or Barbara Harrison at 863-326-6418 with questions. VALENTINE ’ S DINNER DANCE Save the date for February 13, 2026 at 6 pm in the Clubhouse Ballroom! Charm City will be catering a delicious dinner and providing a cash bar. Dance to live music from the Southshore Cruisers Band after dinner. Tickets are on sale now online for $50. BIANNUAL QUI LT SHOW Presented by the Creative Quilters of Lake Ashton , this show will be held Wednesday, February 25, 2026 in the Clubhouse Ballroom from 10 am to 2 pm. POLK SENIOR GAMES Polk Senior Games is an annual two-week series of 37 Olympic-style sports and games for men and women 50 years of age and older. Gold, silver, and bronze medals are awarded in each event and age division. Registration begins January 2 and the deadline is Friday, February 6. Submit a paper entry (request an entry booklet with complete Games information and a paper entry form, call 863-533-0055, email PolkSeniorGames50@gmail.com) or register online at http://www.polkseniorgames.org. ׉ 7cassandra://3d5sVlnqPIROPGwS_HOQbC6yf9AeyhgQNxuXLKdn7Us/`i,+9%!#ҁi,+9%!#с4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://5Dxc4_H9iAKS5fW_Jo3lNaPBNWhTa1J0tm2-upWegCA1`׉ 7cassandra://9Zm9KOFgRy48k1nLPgDtntFF890G9XnI-Zgp7mTNso4͗`u׉ 7cassandra://aC7fGmdNy3BzucsEbe3nNFxCbvZCptJqZf69IUsGoeI0q`i,+9%!$HטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://PzkMpzaJ2cqbQ9QE1QBJs6lwq1xDQZZq9mgubjeQ2RA`׉ 7cassandra://TAiGxix8ZIE3mkoPqqTH_9yMgEcZ0zOuJM5aQoOHWtQ͈g`u׉ 7cassandra://01pFZXJ_x-eFJi4VAmF3dnZIb9eoJWJBVmH2PI4OoPM(`i,+9%!$K׉EFA L L F E S T I VA L WRAP-UP The 2025 Fall Festival surely was one for the books! The weather was perfect, the attendance was wonderful, and the spirit of giving was abundant. Thank you to all who attended and donated to Alzheimer’s research via Team Sam. The Festival raised $2,051 in cash and $510 in online donations for the Alzheimer’s Association! A huge shout out to all of volunteers, including the dunkees, they helped make the Festival a great success. And a special thanks goes out to our sponsors AdventHealth, Matt Simpson of Edward Jones, SunMed, Encompass Health, Water’s Edge, Forni Dental, United Healthcare, Performance Golf Carts, and Roof Maxx. !"#$%#$& '()*#+(, -.()(/ ! #$%&'$()&*+ ,-)$.&/. ! #$%&'$()&*+ 0()$.&/. ! 1/22$.3&*+ ,-)$.&/. ! 1/22$.3&*+ 0()$.&/. !"## %&'()*'#& %%%0",'(-./"&,-/&.01"2 0($*() 2"345) !"#$%&'( )'&*'(+",'(-./"&,-/&.01"2 34567 9:;#5<=: 67,%#$ 2"345) !"#$%&'( >?@./&+",'(-./"&,-/&.01"2 39<=7 =4A#99:< Veteran Owned & Operated Family Owned ׉ 7cassandra://aC7fGmdNy3BzucsEbe3nNFxCbvZCptJqZf69IUsGoeI0q`i,+9%!#׉E27 ׉ 7cassandra://01pFZXJ_x-eFJi4VAmF3dnZIb9eoJWJBVmH2PI4OoPM(`i,+9%!#ԁi,+9%!#Ӂ4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://IkfyngPicmwyLDVXkOlYIm6GLG2MTAdSeHpOyfx-pAYlF`׉ 7cassandra://Hwzm2ce9YrTzhd2sqdlxKwvIewnfMX2CO5HWku1RRr4Ͷx`u׉ 7cassandra://6ucK5G9r8Uu4uHNSmRtwRZ988I17WY5xh-L0yOiWn_A0`i,+9%!$NטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://QTpqi5G96jpRGMJJp274K0UZ60aBmHpJsmyCDJg34Dkz`׉ 7cassandra://ZcaKiMyHoD2YoaylMNPZBcKD83g9FzvJb_9lsv62V5Y`u׉ 7cassandra://r3I5OW1jqdr7R49Lphkh30UNzd9xK8GIppyXr4JFojY3`i,+9%!$Pנi,+9%!$S3̽9ׁH#mailto:LakeAshtonGetaways@gmail.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$RA9ׁHmailto:shelleyb4336@gmail.comׁ ׁ Ј׉E lCLUBS GARDEN CLUB By Pam Klawinski Chilly weather did not stop our November meeting. “Gene, The Barefoot Gardener” shared his expertise with us on how to divide orchids and answered our questions about problems that we are having with our plants. The Lake Ashton Garden Club participated in “World Kindness Day” by placing kindness quotes around the Pavilion and the HFC Indoor Pool area. The next meeting will be Wednesday, December 10 in the Pavilion at 10am. We will have a “Garden-themed Plant Swap” and light refreshments to celebrate the Holiday Season. The club meets every second Wednesday of the month at 10am in the Pavilion or in the Clubhouse Ballroom if inclement weather. SEW WHAT AND SO MUCH MORE By Gretchen Frantz The Florida "winter" weather came early this year, but the Sew What and So Much More group was ready to warm up area children. Miles of yarn were used to create 555 hats that were delivered to 10 elementary schools in Lake Wales and Winter Haven as well as placed under the Lake Ashton Caring tree. The hats are a year round project, along with sewing hundreds of pillows that are given to patients in Lake Wales hospital . Sew What meets Thursday from 1-3pm in the HFC craft room. Weekly projects by group members vary greatly from loom knitting, crochet, card making, diamond dot painting, and cross stitch. All Lake Ashton residents are welcome to join this enthusiastic group. LAVA AUXILIARY By Chris Graves Thank you, Lake Ashton neighbors! The 2025 Craft Fair was a success! More than $5,000 was raised for K9 for Patriots. Thanks to Charm City for donating the chips for the hot dog baskets. A special thanks goes to the Lake Ashton neighbors who made baked goods for the attendees. It was sold out! Another sell out were the hot dogs. Thanks also to everyone that volunteered. There is no December meeting, but January 31, 2026 is the Tag (Garage) Sale. Residents will be able to display items to sell by paying a fee for a place to display their goods in the Ballroom. More info to come in the January LA Times. We want to thank our veterans and those serving in the military both here and abroad for the sacrifices that they make to protect our freedoms! God Bless America! LAKE ASHTON BLACK HERITAGE CLUB By Pamela June As the holiday season approaches, pause and remember the essence of it all. This time of year has a propensity to increase stress. It’s easy to get caught up in the pressure of finding the perfect gift, preparing an impressive dish, or decorating every corner of our homes. But the true beauty of this season lies in gratitude …for the people who uplift us, bring us joy, and walk beside us through life’s journey. The LABHC celebrates the richness of our diverse traditions and extends warm wishes to all: Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Happy Kwanzaa. However you celebrate, may your days be filled with peace, love, and connection. In recognition of Umoja, the first principle of Kwanzaa, we embrace unity …within our families, our communities, and this nation. May the New Year bring us closer together in understanding and mutual respect. Wishing you a joyful and blessed holiday season. ׉ 7cassandra://6ucK5G9r8Uu4uHNSmRtwRZ988I17WY5xh-L0yOiWn_A0`i,+9%!#׉E LA COMMUNITY GARDEN By Lynn Davis and Karen McLemore Lake Ashton Community Garden wraps up a season of growth and celebrated a vibrant fall filled with learning, planting, and community spirit. November kicked off with an engaging AdventHealth presentation at the Clubhouse, where Dr. Shiva Seetahal shared valuable insights on healthy eating and wellness. The Garden’s table was a highlight, offering handmade candles, decorative rosemary pots, and botanical and wildlife notecards that inspired lively conversations and support for future projects. Later in the month, members gathered for a cheerful Plant Party, adding new seedlings and lettuce to the beds—a day rich with laughter, teamwork, and fresh beginnings. Looking ahead, new members who join now enjoy November and December free, with annual membership beginning in January. Renewal details for existing members will be shared soon, with exciting updates on the way. Lake Ashton continues to grow—one seed, and one friendship, at a time. LA GETAWAYS By Shelley Brodka The next meeting will be held Saturday, January 24, 2026 from 11 am to 1 pm in the Clubhouse Ballroom. Members only can take advantage of getting new passport photos taken after the January meeting, so check your passport’s expiration date and contact shelleyb4336@gmail.com to get on the list as space is limited. Dues for the Lake Ashton Getaways Membership are $12 and can be paid through online or by check made out to Lake Ashton Getaways and dropped of at the Clubhouse Activities Office. Membership will allow you early access to information and booking future trips, and a bit of savings on each trip. There is a binder in the Clubhouse Media Center with information on all the 2026 Bus Trips planned so far. Please do not remove the binder from the Media Center. All residents are welcome and encouraged to participate in all Lake Ashton Getaways trips or events. For more information, contact: LakeAshtonGetaways@gmail.com. Scan this QR code to pay dues or sign up for bus trips. Non-members pay an additional $5 for each bus trip. Bus trips are no longer facilitated by the LACDD but a registered club. MAGIC YEARS CLUB By Lynne Judd The Magic Years Club, a group of LA residents who enjoy learning about and sharing experiences about Walt Disney World, meets on the 2nd Monday of each month at 7 pm in the HFC Craft Room. We welcome anyone who has an interest in all things Disney! In November the Club members met and discussed changes at Disney World: attractions that are now closed, either permanently or for refurbishment, as well as upcoming closures. We also talked about new rides and shows and potential opening dates. And of course we had our monthly trivia quiz, which seems to be enjoyed by all. We will not be having a monthly meeting in December, so our next scheduled meeting is on Monday, January 12th, as always at 7 pm in the HFC Craft Room. For questions, call Lynne Judd at 631-987-3230 LA TRAVELERS SPREADING JOY By Carolyn. Bishop The Lake Ashton Travelers, a chapter of the Family RV Association, participated in the National Day of Kindness by painting rocks with encouraging, kind messages on them. We then hid them all around the Waterside RV Resort while we were on a rally with our fellow LA Travelers. We hope we spread some joy amongst our fellow campers. The LA Travelers will be having their annual Club Holiday Celebration at the HFC on Sunday, December 9 at 5 pm. “The Jingle Bell Jamboree” promises to be a fabulously fun time! ׉ 7cassandra://r3I5OW1jqdr7R49Lphkh30UNzd9xK8GIppyXr4JFojY3`i,+9%!#ցi,+9%!#Ձ4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://GGCMSclHF_NzZcvaPct9klMsrLzo8odwhbWt-tPF1XoL`׉ 7cassandra://RN0KcTMWOT2b_pVbMsAiKYIFXQ9Q4Gg-2FqfoPaO9gkͼ`u׉ 7cassandra://0C9rW05m8kxS3G9zYkzg35aWKurdoqX0herHejSMXWU2`i,+9%!$TטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://NyHnqyrrzdYIscWjMpzdNdkseqszFf8Gm-nEvBAnoGk`׉ 7cassandra://qu5JNuS9A2s7WnalYpSrYA4KcUFUWWDhfzd3YgXATmY͢:`u׉ 7cassandra://v4rqGoK8bnMm09itDHWONMIwDBJywYQYqIFGE1jtFlY/T`i,+9%!$Uנi,+9%!$Y$ˁ̺9ׁHmailto:lafomow@gmail.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$X8Ș9ׁHmailto:nachuma@mail.comׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$W/ 9ׁHmailto:LACeramicChics@gmail.comׁ ׁ Ј׉E pGENEALOGY CLUB By Jane Imparl The next meeting of the Genealogy Club will be on Wednesday, December 10 at 2 pm in the HFC Craft Room. For the last several months we have been learning about Artificial Intelligence and how it can help you greatly with your genealogy research. Then we took a “deep dive” into newspapers and have learned what a valuable research tool they are for finding information about our ancestors. Come join your LA neighbors for a fun and informative session at the HFC. We welcome all levels of expertise…from beginner to expert. If you have questions, call Jane at 815-545-6655. Hope to see you at our next meeting. LA CERAMIC CHICS By Shari Gleber Join the LA Ceramic Chics every Wednesday at the HFC Craft Room 8 am to 12:30 pm. No experience with painting ceramics? No Problem! Everything needed to get started is available along with lots of guidance and friendly crafters willing to help. Membership is $20 annually to assist with the purchase of kiln supplies and maintenance — no charge to members for firing of projects. Come out to meet our friendly members and create something beautiful! Contact: 239-851-7899 (Joan DiBattista) or LACeramicChics@gmail.com. CAMERA CLUB By Larry Hillock If you’re interested in photography and would like to share your enthusiasm and knowledge with others, please join us at one of our Camera Club meetings. Our December meeting will be held on Monday, December 8 at 10:30 am in the Clubhouse Cinema. Each month we strive to broaden our knowledge through informational videos, presentations and photo sharing. All Lake Ashton residents regardless of photography skill levels are invited to attend. LAKE ASHTON FRIENDS OF MEALS ON WHEELS By Marcia Santino Mexican Train Dominoes Come Join the Fun Thursdays and Sundays 1 to 3 pm in the Clubhouse Game Room. Arrive by 12:50. Lessons given as needed. Sense of humor necessary. Questions? Text Joanne McKinley at 304-261-6905. OPEN play mah jongg We are looking for both men & women to join us in a fun, friendly game of Mah Jongg. Some experience is required. We would love to have you stop in and say hello Wednesdays from 2 to 4 pm at the HFC Card Room. Questions? Contact Carolyn Neuberger at nachuma@mail.com or 516-317-0120. Chess club Friendly games on Thursdays at 1:30 pm in the Poker Room at the HFC. Some members play each other online. Players of all levels are welcome. Informal lessons can also be arranged for those who want them. Questions? Contact Howard Mayne at 603-285-5640. Our month-long fundraiser has wrapped up and final donations are being tabulated. We look forward to announcing our grand total in our January article. Thank you to everyone who has volunteered, donated to our Third Thursday thrift store drives, supported our fundraiser or MOWPolk in any way. It is because of the generosity of people like you that Meals on Wheels of Polk County can serve the homebound with nutritious meals, fellowship and wellness checks throughout the year. This is an essential service to our community and your support is gratefully accepted and greatly appreciated. Wishing you and your loved ones a wonderful holiday season! If you are in need of services, interested in volunteering or would like to make a monetary charitable donation to MOWPolk, please call: 863-299-1616. To become a member of the LAFOMOW Club please email lafomow@gmail.com. Next Second Chance Donation Day is December 18. ׉ 7cassandra://0C9rW05m8kxS3G9zYkzg35aWKurdoqX0herHejSMXWU2`i,+9%!#׉E{LA SINGLES CLUB By Carol Corley The Lake Ashton Singles Club had a good meeting in November and made plans for the future. The group will have a new leader in 2026, and we will be learning more about that at the December meeting. Our current much appreciated leader, who started the group, is choosing to step down. Currently we have a team, and that will likely continue with a new person at the top. We also had some new members, and we hope they will continue with us. The club firmed up plans for Christmas gifts for our Senior Orphans, elderly Polk County residents who are in need and have no family. We also discussed activities we might enjoy doing. All suggestions are welcomed. After our meeting, we played cards, Five Crown, and then went to dinner as a group. We enjoyed the return of several of our Snowbirds. Our meetings are the first Sunday of every month at 2 p.m., mostly in the Clubhouse ballroom. Every other Sunday we play cards then go to dinner as a group. All LA Single residents are welcome to join us. ADVERTISEMENT FRIENDLY BOCCE GROUP By Stephanie Iszak Mark your calendars! 2026 promises to be an exciting year for the Friendly Bocce Group! We would like to invite all Lake Ashton residents to come out on Mondays and Fridays from 10 am to 1 pm to play some fun games of Bocce Ball. No experience is required. Anyone who is playing would be more than happy to teach you our rules. Since our “Newbie Clinic” was such a huge success last year and is scheduled for Wednesdays, January 28 and February 4, 2026, from 10 am to 1 pm. This is a great opportunity to come out and learn the game. Our Friendly Bocce Tailgate parties for 2026 will be held January through the end of April from 4 to 6 pm on the first and third Fridays of the month. Bring your drinks (non-alcoholic) and an appetizer to share. This is a great opportunity to socialize and play some games. (Continued on p. 32) ׉ 7cassandra://v4rqGoK8bnMm09itDHWONMIwDBJywYQYqIFGE1jtFlY/T`i,+9%!#؁i,+9%!#ׁ4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://oie2420OLtXMjZ3l4PMEchCnh4mErXZezUSjWdMjcm8 `׉ 7cassandra://iDvOFeIPdYQ3cX_jWIdZxQ9zmTHjzGgWn9JVEQN-TvQ`u׉ 7cassandra://W59mKemmULTfvx6HFLqMf2VdQEBEowgM1OaLyb-NF-41`i,+9%!$ZטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://FQGZIy0uDuirc0671hXaJkD1IlcKlk7yxONfAxfa18o5`׉ 7cassandra://mX_u6esoXex06l6ks6dcSVdw5Ju79SbU3cCeC8rIa7Yͩ`u׉ 7cassandra://3R5v7yzgIEzIbEQmdYCyEXc_RaS3sbJU-9mqquQMXfs/8`i,+9%!$[נi,+9%!$g\ρ̮ 9ׁH%mailto:sally.schley@cruiseplanners.coׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$f\̦ 9ׁH!http://www.SandEtravelplanners.coׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$e̡9ׁH$mailto:EARL.SCHLEY@CRUISEPLANNERS.COׁ ׁ Јנi,+9%!$dO9ׁHmailto:auntdeda@hotmail.comׁ ׁ Ј׉E(Continued from p. 31) The annual Potluck Dinner will be January 30, 2026 from 4 pm to 7 pm at the HFC Community Room. Bring a drink of your choice and a dish to share for a fun night of food, drink, and friends. Plates, napkins, and utensils will be supplied. Sign up at the HFC wall or text/email Stephanie at 609-980-9505 or at siszak@comcast.net or Tammy Shields at 863-632-2024 or at tammy.shields1221@gmail.com. The Friendly Bocce Tournament will be held on March 21, 2026. (rain date March 22, 2025) More details to follow. Jim and Kay Weaver have graciously agreed to sponsor our tournament again this year. They deserve a “BIG THANK YOU” for their generosity. Looking forward to having many new Friendly Bocce players. LA PICKLEBALL By Dennis Santino This has been a very fun and exciting 2025. Lake Ashton Pickleball Association wants to thank everyone for participating in all the mixers, funday events and mix doubles tournament. We now have over 200 members and continue to grow. LAPA is planning even more events and skills clinics for 2026. As we all enjoy playing the game of pickleball, we must recognize and thank the original OGs of pickleball Larry and Lynne Judd, for their leadership and dedication to LAPA. With the guidance and the help of many volunteers we all are enjoying the fruits of their labor. Let’s all enjoy the fun and camaraderie of this wonderful game. Coaches Corner: In order to get better you need to play against better competition. Remember my #1 Rule: Have Fun! DUPLICATE BRIDGE By Don Fuller & Liz Leigh Duplicate bridge is played on Monday at 12:45 pm in the Clubhouse Card Room. The game is open to all residents regardless of skill level. Participants should have some experience playing bridge plus a partner is required. We have approximately 60 players in the group and can assist new players in finding a partner. Registering in advance is suggested by signing up in the red book in the Clubhouse Card Room, or by emailing Don at dfuller627@yahoo.com. October 27: A Group 1st Don Fuller & Jim Ford; 2nd Colette McKie & Sally Bonkoski; 3rd Graham Littlehales & Tom Fleming; 4th Sonny Robinson & Pat Foster B Group: 1st Nelda Sedlacek & Maureen Ziegler; 2nd Howard Mayne & Marge Kniat October 20: North-South: 1st Jim Ford & Don Fuller; 2nd Dee Mayne & Jeannine Connors; 3rd Howard Mayne & Chris Verges East West: 1st Pat Foster & Sonny Robinson; 2nd Liz Leigh & Mafie Walker November 3: North-South: 1st Graham Littlehales & Tom Fleming; 2nd Don Fuller & Jim Ford; 3rd Marion Nelson & Roger Nelson East-West: 1st Alex Lukacs & Howard Mayne; 2nd Liz Leigh & Mafie Walker ; 3rd Colette McKie & Dana Griffiths November 10: North-South: 1st Marian Oshinsky & Trish Kellar; 2nd Don Fuller & Jim Ford; 3rd Jeannine Connors & Dee Mayne: Roger Nelson & Howard Mayne East-West: 1st Tom Fleming & Graham Littlehales; 2nd Sonny Robinson & Pat Foster; 3rd Chris Verges & Chip Inman LAKEASHTONLIVING.COM By Iris Realmuto LakeAshtonLiving.com is a registered club and is not affiliated with, or endorsed by, LACDD or LAIICDD. LakeAshtonLiving.com is more than just a website — it’s our community hub, powered by Lake Ashton Living Inc., a 501(c)(7) not-for-profit organization. To keep things running smoothly and meet IRS requirements for 501(c)(7) organizations, we must collect membership dues starting January 1, 2026. Here are the options designed to keep it simple and affordable: 1-Year Membership – $8 5-Year Membership – $25 Lifetime Membership – $35 (best value!) To ensure uninterrupted access, please submit your dues (either online by scanning this QR code, or by dropping off a check at the Clubhouse Activities Office) by December 31. These required membership dues go to supporting LakeAshtonLiving.com and keeping it funded as the go-to place for staying connected, informed, and engaged with everything happening at Lake Ashton. To those people who have supported the website in the past through your kind donations, thank you! ׉ 7cassandra://W59mKemmULTfvx6HFLqMf2VdQEBEowgM1OaLyb-NF-41`i,+9%!#׉E SANDY’S NY STATE GROUP By Joyce Notarnicola Greetings to all our neighbors, old and new, from New York. Our group will not meet for dinner in December, but our calendar is set for 2026. Please save the following dates and note the venue has changed for most months. January 19 - Dinner out at Olive Garden February 27 - HFC March 27 - HFC April 24 - HFC May 15 - HFC September 25 - HFC October TBD November 20 - Clubhouse If you would like to be added (or removed) from the contact list, please contact Deirdre Knapp (auntdeda@hotmail.com). Enjoy the holidays and we hope to see you in 2026! ITALIAN/AMERICAN CLUB By Susie Escoda Please join us this month for our December Italian club Potluck. We’ll meet on December 18 at 6 pm at the HFC. If you’re Italian and want to meet some new friends, bring your favorite dish to share for 8 people (desserts are taken care of ) a beverage of your choice & $1 to cover costs for paper goods. RSVP not required and any questions please call Susie Escoda 863-206-6566. Look forward to seeing you there. ATTN. HOGAN LOOPERS! SAVE THE DATE! By Julie Cappel Mark your calendars! We will get together February 2026, to meet and socialize with our neighbors. If your address is 5436 Hogan Lane or higher, you are invited to the special Hogan Loopers Pot Luck on Saturday February 21,2026 at the HFC at 5:00 PM. You will receive a formal invitation on your mailbox post in January. There will be a small fee of $2.00 per person that you can either send early or pay at the door. If you have questions you can drop a note to Julie Cappel @ 5580 Hogan Lane, or text/call 586-242-2100. Thanks Loopers! LAKE ASHTON CANADIAN CLUB (LACC) By Heather & Ken Miyauchi, Janet & Ed Wills Calling all Canadians! It's time again to renew old THIS IS WHERE NEW MEMORIES ARE MADE CRUISE & LAND VA CATIONS CALL TODAY FOR THE BEST LAND AND CRUISE PACKAGES AVAILABLE AND ASK ABOUT SPECIAL OFFERS! Sall y & Ear l Schle y Lak e Ashto n Resident s 863-308-295 0 | EARL.SCHLEY@CRUISEPLANNERS.CO M www.SandEtravelplanners.co m sally.schley@cruiseplanners.co m FLST # 3906 8 • CST # 2034468-5 0 • HST # TAR-705 8 • WAST # 603-399-50 4 friendships and to welcome new friends. Please join us again for great food, lively conversation, entertaining games, and even a few laughs on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. Doors open at 5:30 pm with dinner served at 6. The dinner will include Honey Baked Ham, Grilled Chicken Breast, Potatoes Au Gratin, Honey Glazed Baby Carrots, Garden Salad, French Rolls, and Iced Tea. Disposable plates, utensils, and napkins will also be provided. You only need to bring your beverages and glasses. The cost remains $20 per person, a bargain for a three-course dinner including the tip and tax. Please sign up and submit your payment at the HFC Activities Desk. Make your $20 check is payable to “Ed Wills”, our treasurer. The final date for signup is December 31. Looking forward to seeing everyone on January 6! ׉ 7cassandra://3R5v7yzgIEzIbEQmdYCyEXc_RaS3sbJU-9mqquQMXfs/8`i,+9%!#ځi,+9%!#ف4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://EtZFINE_4Cl_WhdXqnaNrdiTPRwL3FoNolFLlBq-qYkE`׉ 7cassandra://cXvXzPowwCPv2KgufJlhz9rQI_VegxaIycIlLmOBqRIͩ `u׉ 7cassandra://KEXko3suO33TbY26Yb54ERdTQb2IEMU-150z2hWU89w1m`i,+9%!$hטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://J0CZVdoB3ciM8CcP3gXpVze4bhL09UPdh4jsXtLIMdo[b`׉ 7cassandra://gbbHTR8Ee5EgUChURZmKuLxJMMmrqSCAYzHjF6j6bfA͝`u׉ 7cassandra://WeS6l6Zc3saY1yfsAiwlcHsPx6ISwZmWUGbzfuEqwj8/8`i,+9%!$iנi,+9%!$o9ׁHhttp://homeinstead.com/333ׁ ׁ Ј׉E