׉?ׁB!בCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://iEAvgD6oPsJTVB5qxFoysGT1-BCzKnGe6MnEecKCe74d`׉ 7cassandra://0VuJtI3YR3_vt7z-62jS5A_nkPMARt22KdIdWz7uUAA͆?`u׉ 7cassandra://JmrM8InFO8IiKMoiQ2NMGXnA06hl7dm3cJhtf-zSO580`gi߉I,Ln`טFu׈O'נgi߉I,Lnc!̾ 9ׁHhttp://www.lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Ј׈Egi߉I,Ln.׉EWL.A. TIMES Lake Ashton Community Newsletter January 2025 Hot Chili Cold Beer Baked Goods For a Good Cause! Simply the Best! Chili Cook-off January 24 Benefits the American Cancer Society see p. 30 4141 Ashton Club Drive Lake Wales, FL 33859 Lake Ashton is a 55 & Older Deed Restricted Community 863.324.6032 863.324.5457 www.lakeashtoncdd.com ׉ 7cassandra://JmrM8InFO8IiKMoiQ2NMGXnA06hl7dm3cJhtf-zSO580`gi߉I,Ln/gi߉I,Ln.4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://91mntx5GWGRrNhL-bLUbenYaI9QdJlncPJXy4w8sCt4+`׉ 7cassandra://FcOARd_wT-AuOA06aEkEcQLAKR5nBmS7EBWtPtwEGPck`u׉ 7cassandra://edv0439cz5QC6Sp7I2fFbbM-ZMHaXWJzUP4aK74zetk%`gi߉I,LndטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://c93ZTLijGfu-iBNufQbBmmsyIhru29slNo4-UaVm6k4`׉ 7cassandra://P1u5RHnkn9EHTC-lHgDsy8TOfq6vz9tBs7gNIrFozt8͗`u׉ 7cassandra://wyxLywiezPkPAPf04dw-ExPML9t0Cb0CkUw4IsyT0Fk(M`gi߉I,Lneנgi߉I,Lnz9ׁHmailto:kshipley@empowerme.comׁ ׁ Јנgi߉I,Lnyr̿9ׁHmailto:charmcityfl@gmail.comׁ ׁ Јנgi߉I,Lnx,9ׁH&mailto:jsullivan@lakeashtonstorage.comׁ ׁ Јנgi߉I,Lnw9ׁH mailto:sgoodwin@lakeashtongc.comׁ ׁ Јנgi߉I,Lnv9ׁH!mailto:ipeterson@lakeashtongc.comׁ ׁ Јנgi߉I,Lnut9ׁHmailto:rlavoie@lakeashtongc.comׁ ׁ Јנgi߉I,LntM̠9ׁHhttp://lakeashtonhoa.comׁ ׁ Јנgi߉I,Lns49ׁH"mailto:directors@lakeashtonhoa.orgׁ ׁ Јנgi߉I,LnrI9ׁHmailto:kfunk@lakeashton2cdd.comׁ ׁ Јנgi߉I,Lnq9ׁH"mailto:kvankirk@lakeashton2cdd.comׁ ׁ Јנgi߉I,Lnp{9ׁH mailto:mfisher@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Јנgi߉I,Lno{9ׁHmailto:clane@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Јנgi߉I,Lnn{7!9ׁH"mailto:smoreland@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Јנgi߉I,Lnm{ځ9ׁHmailto:cwells@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Јנgi߉I,Lnlg9ׁH mailto:valerie@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Јנgi߉I,LnkX<9ׁH mailto:valerie@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Јנgi߉I,LnjX̰9ׁHmailto:cwells@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Ј׉EOBUYING OR SELL ING? let us help you! BUYING? We are ready to help you find the perfect home. SELLING? We have qualified buyers looking for homes in Lake Ashton. Contact us now for a free home value report... let's find out what your home is really worth! 863-318-9542 info@LakeAshtonRealty.com LakeAshtonRealty.com 5% Total Commission ׉ 7cassandra://edv0439cz5QC6Sp7I2fFbbM-ZMHaXWJzUP4aK74zetk%`gi߉I,Ln0׉E nNEWSLETTER STAFF Christine Wells Editor cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com 863.324.5457 Valerie LeBlanc Advertising Sales, Layout & Design valerie@lakeashtoncdd.com SUBMISSION GUIDELINES February Issue Deadline: January 15 • 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. JANUARY 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! Do not hesitate to contact any of the below with comments, questions or concerns. LAKE ASHTON CLUBHOUSE 4141 Ashton Club Drive Lake Wales, FL 33859 Phone: 863-324-5457 Fax: 863-324-5829 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 - Ron Lavoie, General Manager Ian Peterson, Head Golf Professional Eagle’s 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 Fax: 863-595-1567 LAIICDD Community Director: Karen Van Kirk kvankirk@lakeashton2cdd.com HFC Activities Office Manager: Krystle Funk kfunk@lakeashton2cdd.com GATE HOUSES & SECURITY OFFICERS: Thompson Nursery Rd. (LW): 863-324-7290 County Road 653 (WH): 863-318-0237 863-325-0065 directors@lakeashtonhoa.org lakeashtonhoa.com 863-326-1032 863-326-1032 rlavoie@lakeashtongc.com ipeterson@lakeashtongc.com 863-326-1085 sgoodwin@lakeashtongc.com 863.326.1304 Tues & Thurs jsullivan@lakeashtonstorage.com 8 am to 1 pm 863-662-3300 charmcityfl@gmail.com 863-358-0809 kshipley@empowerme.com In case of emergency, dial 911! Police Non-Emergency Numbers: Lake Wales: 863-678-4223 | Winter Haven: 863-291-5858 3 Polk County Sheriff: 863-298-6200 ׉ 7cassandra://wyxLywiezPkPAPf04dw-ExPML9t0Cb0CkUw4IsyT0Fk(M`gi߉I,Ln1gi߉I,Ln04FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://uKSdpy-Uq0VWR8TlQDkJz5subDEdi3Gr3qZlOQIXviw`׉ 7cassandra://vcaWgqcfZfknBozJp8KRCfAuKygmPkXUhhXNORZcVio̓+`u׉ 7cassandra://-cREHqMCCfF7vyudy5iuEXUUtVGZTuuQr8KdJe2k7gg&`giI,Ln{טFu׉׉ 7cassandra://HK1Tm7-GUbgFJwwiN8Ehu-Nb6Q7qw_jgEfq1l7yfeDc`׉ 7cassandra://2593zJHGaFWyss8C1Fs1v4W6B5mZz4Wx_KN96f7tnjU͕`u׉ 7cassandra://6gL_D-oLzRJBbaKAqZb6roZzbeSE6_hx3G0DkO6UdE42`giI,Ln|נgiI,Ln8 9ׁH$http://www.TurnerFurnitureOnline.comׁ ׁ Ј׉ETMONDAY 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 — coffee & donuts available for $3. JANUARY 6 • Birthdays and Anniversaries • LA Woodworkers Project of the Month • Featured Speaker: Polk Senior Games, Small World Bus Tours Presents 2025 Bus Tours • Featured Vendors: Christine Graves Insurance, ComForCare, Operation Paint JANUARY 13 • Bite Me Monday — Donations of pet food and/or supplies for the Humane Society of Polk County • Featured Speaker: EverLoved Pet Care • Featured Vendors: Matt Simpson - Edward Jones, Miller’s Central Air JANUARY 20 - NO MONDAY COFFEE - MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY • Peanut Butter Monday - Non-perishable food donations will go to the Mission of Winter Haven JANUARY 27 • Peanut Butter Monday - Non-perishable food donations will go to the Lake Wales Care Center. • Featured Speaker: TBA • Featured Vendor: AdventHealth, Window World Mark your calendars! The Bloodmobile will be in the Clubhouse West Parking Lot on the following dates in 2025: February 24, April 21, June 30, August 25, October 27, 2025, December 29, 2025 from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm. IN THIS ISSUE NEWS 5 LA LOOKS 18 SAFETY 22 MOVIES 26 EVENTS 28 CLUBS 36 MIND & BODY 42 GOLF 44 BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETINGS LAKE ASHTON II (WH) CDD January 17 9 am at the Health & Fitness Center LAKE ASHTON (LW) CDD Tuesday, January 21 (day change) 9 am in the Clubhouse Ballroom 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://-cREHqMCCfF7vyudy5iuEXUUtVGZTuuQr8KdJe2k7gg&`gi߉I,Ln2׉E=AVON PARK New Comfort! NEW YEAR, The Area’s Largest Selection of Furniture... at the Best Price... ALWAYS! Get a... with a mattress set purchase 863-402-1688 www.TurnerFurnitureOnline.com AVON PARK SHOWROOM 2900 US 27 South Avon Park, FL SHOWROOM HOURS: MONDAY - SATURDAY: 10 AM - 6 PM SUNDAY: 11 AM - 4 PM 5 OUTLET HOURS: MONDAY - SATURDAY: 10 AM - 5 PM SUNDAY: CLOSED 1122 W Locke Street Avon Park, FL WAREHOUSE HOURS: TUESDAY - SATURDAY: 8 AM - 5 PM SUNDAY & MONDAY: CLOSED ©2024 Knorr Marketing TUFU-1597 12/24 In stock & ready for immediate delivery $300 GIFT CARD ׉ 7cassandra://6gL_D-oLzRJBbaKAqZb6roZzbeSE6_hx3G0DkO6UdE42`gi߉I,Ln3gi߉I,Ln24FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://YGdGbKm2z30cYywTYz1Ba69EfY7Gebzahv6OnGG6r4cF`׉ 7cassandra://DnMtt0_f1yHm46DfTvW_g8SzrrXjq4zg4Xd0zaLhaVoͪ+`u׉ 7cassandra://5kAdYZj5LkuvsP3h3UrxzE_BPqu_HdHTBhjfW_VLQLM-`giI,LnטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://92w2-GGHwzJTOHyC7Dsa8xGI3SQmzsrOCCfNtneSUj8ۏ`׉ 7cassandra://WgHFmDMI9xOwdUc_P-MX5WAS8lc_R9KUaD1muA1AcZM̈́`u׉ 7cassandra://nizaT2_N_71cvNmtBgcYyOU3S6XGjz4g_Wtpa6ogXlA.`giI,LnנgiI,Lnb9ׁHhttp://applies.Thׁ ׁ Ј׉E KHOURS OF OPERATION CLUBHOUSE: 6 am – 10 pm daily CLUBHOUSE & ACTIVITIES OFFICES: 9 am – 5 pm Mon. & Fri. 2 – 5 pm Tues. 9 am – Noon Weds. & Thurs. HEALTH & FITNESS CENTER: 5:30 am – 10 pm daily HFC OFFICES & ACTIVITIES DESK: 8 am – 4 pm Monday through Friday PRODUCE Every Wednesday from 10 am – 2 pm in the Clubhouse West parking lot BAXTER’ S QUAL ITY MEATS & FRESH PRODUCE Fresh poultry, fish, beef in the Clubhouse West parking lot Wednesdays from 10 am to 2 pm BOOKMOBILE IS BACK! Second & fourth Wednesdays, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm (closed for lunch 12:30 to 1:15) in the Clubhouse West Parking Lot. Polk County library card holders can check out and return books, movies, & more! HOLIDAY HOURS & TRASH PICKUP CHANGES The Clubhouse Offices will be closed Tuesday, December 31 and Wednesday, January 1. The HFC Offices will be closed Wednesday, January 1. Lake Wales residents will have their trash picked up Saturday, January 4. There is no change to the Winter Haven schedule. The Clubhouse Offices will be closed in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day on January 20. 6 CLUBHOUSE AMENITY ACCESS CARD/RF ID DISTRIBUTION SCHEDULE Tuesdays: 10 am - 1 pm, Wednesdays: 1 - 4 pm Thursdays: 1 - 4 pm Residents who did not previously turn in an application will be charged $10 per Amenity Access Card and RFID Tag. Please bring a check, cash, Visa, or MasterCard if this applies.The times listed above are for Amenity Access Card(s) only for Winter Haven residents and RFID Tag(s)/Amenity Access Card(s) for Lake Wales Residents. HFC RFID TAG DISTRIBUTION FOR WINTER HAVEN RESIDENTS Tuesdays: 1 - 3 pm and Thursdays : 1 - 3 pm Lake Wales Residents will come to the Clubhouse to receive their RFID tag(s) and Amenity Access Card(s). Winter Haven residents will go to the HFC to receive their RFID Tag(s) and to the Clubhouse for their Amenity Access Card(s) Please make it a goal to get your RFID Tag(s) and Amenity Access Card(s) by January 30. The gate clicker system will be discontinued on January 31. LIMITED AMENITY ACCESS CONTROLS NOW ACTIVE The doors on the west side of the Clubhouse are now active. Residents are encouraged to test out their amenity access cards on these doors. There are signs in place advertising these doors as "Resident Only Entrances" and advising residents of where to scan their Amenity Access Card. When the card is scanned, the light will turn green and the door can then be pulled open. The handle will not turn. Residents should advise Sheila in the Clubhouse Office or Caroline in the Clubhouse Activities Office if there are issues with opening the doors using the Amenity Access Card. ׉ 7cassandra://5kAdYZj5LkuvsP3h3UrxzE_BPqu_HdHTBhjfW_VLQLM-`gi߉I,Ln4׉E׉ 7cassandra://nizaT2_N_71cvNmtBgcYyOU3S6XGjz4g_Wtpa6ogXlA.`gi߉I,Ln5gi߉I,Ln44FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://0fuB5eKwbXShyj_iFlcvjt3tOEv-lGRqAEGlZC6XGXE*`׉ 7cassandra://qDjTyPG-MYmB2TvyQM2TOxPE8BemtCsCpZNDL2h2PfEͯ`u׉ 7cassandra://9_maXutmygdiWOoImNO3gHjcZO-IdZjkWVvpmU5-JLQ/`giI,LnטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://8LemHRXPIJdcoTHL-G-LwoatccsIbYm-ZXBP4pIMV00`׉ 7cassandra://fatzcWmoxDhIOIE3ppfuYwvk_4N6HvtrR7qQ_gt2E1M͖`u׉ 7cassandra://_NZMEfmdvp-LqfcaHgBAiOpE33yGZf08zfe0zc-CdB03`giI,LnנgiI,Ln>9ׁH mailto:gulrich@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,Ln̼`9ׁHmailto:steve.lacdd@gmail.comׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,Ln>9ׁH#mailto:dlandgrebe@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,Ln>Ł9ׁH"mailto:mcostello@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,Ln>hC9ׁH)mailto:brenda.vansickle@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,Ln%ā̠9ׁHhttp://lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Ј׉E LACDD NEWS By Christine Wells, LA (LW) CDD Community Director Supervisors and staff would like to wish residents a happy, healthy New Year. January is a great time for reflection and anticipation — reflection of the year that has passed and anticipation of the year to come. December was full of holiday festivities and residents celebrated Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa in the same week with friends and neighbors. Residents showed how giving they are by donating to Hands 4 Hope, Be a Santa to a Senior, Toys for Tots, Lake Wales Care Center, The Mission of Winter Haven, Meals on Wheels, and so much more. There are opportunities in every LA Times to give back and residents never cease to amaze Supervisors and Staff. Lake Ashton is full of so many caring residents and it is a pleasure to work for you all! Looking forward to 2025, residents will find an abundant schedule of activities at the Clubhouse and HFC to accommodate the active lifestyle to which residents are accustomed. Please keep staff informed with any feedback or questions regarding any concerns about the respective amenities and resident services to ensure that 2025 is the best year yet at Lake Ashton. Residents are urged to become more involved in community activities designed to benefit the body, mind, and spirit. Plan to spend time at the amenities enjoying all that Florida’s peak season brings. Starting the week at Lake Ashton’s Monday Coffee information meetings will provide a good overview of upcoming classes, shows, meetings, and parties. Mix it up in 2025 and try sitting at a new table at Monday Coffee! There are many new residents at Lake Ashton. Reach out to new faces and welcome new neighbors. On December 16 Supervisors met to attend to Board matters. A new AC unit for the Media Center was approved along with street signs to replace those cracked and difficult to read (50 total signs) and a permanent concrete pad for the bike rack. A wrap up report of additional actions taken at the meeting was sent out via email. Residents are encouraged to attend CDD meetings to gain firsthand knowledge of pertinent matters. Visit lakeashtoncdd.com to view agendas, minutes, and more. The next meeting will be on TUESDAY, JANUARY 21. 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 took time at the end of the December Board Meeting to show their gratitude for the Clubhouse Staff. Pictured left to right: Supervisor Greg Ulrich, Supervisor Steve Realmuto, Supervisor Debby Landgrebe, Sheila Moreland, Clubhouse Office Manager, Matt Fisher, Operations Manager, Supervisor Mike Costello, Angel Gonzalez, Facility Maintenance Worker, Supervisor Brenda Van Sickle, Alex Fuertes, Facility Maintenance Supervisor, Caroline Lane, Activities Assistant, Christine Wells, Community Director 8 ׉ 7cassandra://9_maXutmygdiWOoImNO3gHjcZO-IdZjkWVvpmU5-JLQ/`gi߉I,Ln6׉EFi rst Cl ass Home Ser v i ce, we j us t happen to be Great E l ec t r i c i ans ! Senior Discounts Military Discounts First Responder Discounts BOOK NOW CALL TODAY (863)746-0005 9 ׉ 7cassandra://_NZMEfmdvp-LqfcaHgBAiOpE33yGZf08zfe0zc-CdB03`gi߉I,Ln7gi߉I,Ln64FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://kt9wWqOdZ-_FyDys0WIhQ1ViJ8kCM-oMZXrucX_cgdo `׉ 7cassandra://Wqnd2cB87l22wJnenNMIDU3ShIICt9NrMFW5ivQBMfYͮ`u׉ 7cassandra://_WoRwY_X4N4ZpM3gQe5vLvdevdiaYJ2UUuaq8oMoSsQ-`giI,LnטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://kFMp01-9_-FmJXU5CjKdRlE2GABqah2asCwuyXZhlukV `׉ 7cassandra://sQWXs4o743BtuqgpKRk6rg3YN4NeEQuV10bLVXE8NZsͱh`u׉ 7cassandra://grCN_26LlT7DttZ13Do1GXq3HDws1Df_HaaNu92Res0:`giI,LnנgiI,Ln̲S9ׁHmailto:raull@lakeashton2cdd.comׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,Ln̰ہ@9ׁH*mailto:alittlewoodlakeashton2cdd@gmail.comׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,Ln̲c9ׁHmailto:maryclark725@gmail.comׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,Ln̰9ׁH"mailto:bzelazny@lakeashton2cdd.comׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,Ln̰Y̝9ׁHmailto:mecsicsj@msn.comׁ ׁ Ј׉ELAIICDD NEWS 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, Eagle’s Nest, Facilities and Field Operation, Transportation System Office Hours: Mondays 1 to 3 pm 863.325.8098, bzelazny@lakeashton2cdd.com Mary C. Clark, Assistant Secretary Public Works & Infrastructure, Including Roadways Office Hours: Wednesdays from 6 to 7 pm 252-503-7087, maryclark725@gmail.com Angela Littlewood, Assistant Secretary Special Projects, Landscaping Area incl. Pet Play Parks Office Hours: Mondays from 9 to 10 am 352.250.9707, alittlewoodlakeashton2cdd@gmail.com Roy Aull, Assistant Secretary Facilities/Amenity Management Office Hours: Friday 9 to 10:30 am 973-670-2709, raull@lakeashton2cdd.com By Karen Van Kirk, LAIICDD Community Director I would first like to thank the LAIICDD Board of Supervisors for their vote of confidence in electing me as the Community Director for LAIICDD. My extensive knowledge of the overall operations at the HFC is a plus. I am also a people person and enjoy working with Lake Ashton’s residents. I also have the unique distinction of having worked in various capacities at Lake Ashton, beginning at the Clubhouse, then transferring to the HFC when It opened its’ doors in 2007. My tenure has enabled me to work alongside previous community directors, hone my negotiating skills with vendors, learn first-hand how to stay ahead of maintenance issues, and know the importance of collaborating with the LA IICDD board members and Lake Ashton’s residents, which will serve me well as I begin my new role. Historically, January is a month of resolutions where we resolve to improve our lives in a variety of ways. Here at the HFC, we have resolved to continue making improvements. Thankfully, the major renovation of the HFC’s indoor pool area and swimming pool is behind us, therefore enabling us to concentrate on new projects this year, including the conversion of one tennis court to an additional pickleball court, giving the residents a total of six pickleball courts. We are currently waiting for the necessary repair to begin on the racquetball court, which we hope to have concluded in the near future. We apologize for any inconvenience caused when limiting usage of certain venues while they are being improved, but please know that everything we do is for you. Your health and fitness are always a priority for us, and here at the HFC we are happy to offer a variety of fitness programs. Be sure to look for our monthly calendar outlining our ongoing and popular exercise classes. Along with your health we also offer fun activities, beginning with J and The Two-Tones Band, who will perform for your entertainment pleasure on January 10 in the Community Center. There is also a Community Club Garden dance on January 17. Be sure to stop by the HFC’s activities desk to ask about these two events. Please note the LAIICDD meeting will take place on January 16, beginning at 9:00 am. Also, mark your calendar for January 24, 9:00 am, as the HFC will host its annual Health Expo. We look forward to a record number of vendors who always provide generous door prizes as well as helpful information on a variety of health and wellness issues. You do not have to be present to win these door prizes but you do have to attend in order to register for these prizes. As the new LAIICDD Community Director, I look forward to making a difference in 2025, and I, along with the LAIICDD Board of Supervisors, my valuable team of employees, and our treasured volunteers, want to wish you a happy and healthy New Year for 2025. 10 ׉ 7cassandra://_WoRwY_X4N4ZpM3gQe5vLvdevdiaYJ2UUuaq8oMoSsQ-`gi߉I,Ln8׉E11 ׉ 7cassandra://grCN_26LlT7DttZ13Do1GXq3HDws1Df_HaaNu92Res0:`gi߉I,Ln9gi߉I,Ln84FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://v96j_kuj1tvNt6bHrgka0aAPM_zbdP9m2JDnBngxeUM`׉ 7cassandra://bNdfK0OXObsk8Guo0Cj7bBGyxr8WwY23uoO1wXFXJCA͒`u׉ 7cassandra://DPrdseHrBXhZYS30I42FU0K6kin4hhGggJEeSw7ptVw+`giI,LnטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://KILBHqmaC-sABwHTUdEHFZY0nHkMPi9fFj9P3Z6NU1Qp`׉ 7cassandra://ZXNQtkoNHow0uxd7_BioQMwA7QeUkFyuNjNFT_Vdc4o`u׉ 7cassandra://1ko20dsSeYruaKXKLGMPP_E0pYwaOp13JPAgLtibO7g)D`giI,LnנgiI,Ln j9ׁHhttp://www.welovelaw.comׁ ׁ Ј׉ENEW ENTRANCE GATE PROCEDURES Most residents have received a RFID tag by now. When entering the community via the Thompson Nursery Road entrance (pictured) please stop at the stop sign and then proceed very slowly until the reader shines a green light and the gate opens. At the CR 653 gate please be sure to slow down when entering the resident entry until the light turns green and the gate opens. To ensure you do not accidentally hit the gate arm please ensure the gate arm comes down completely before proceeding past the stop sign. If you do not have your remote or a RFID tag, you should go to the visitors side to be processed. Please be prepared to show your driver's license. Residents and visitors who hit the gate arms at the entrances to Lake Ashton may be charged the full replacement value of the gate arm in addition to any repairs to the operators, as needed. Please use caution and do not tailgate. The gates are set to close after each vehicle so tailgating could result in a costly mistake. NEW CRAFT AND CARD ROOM TELEVISIONS Facility Staff have installed TVs in the Craft Room and Card Room to accommodate the many groups that utilize those rooms for meetings and activities. The tvs are also able to be connected to music and other streaming stations to expand access to residents using those rooms. In addition, they can be used to connect computers to display information and presentations. There are casting devices that are available for checkout at the Clubhouse Office with Sheila Moreland. 12 ׉ 7cassandra://DPrdseHrBXhZYS30I42FU0K6kin4hhGggJEeSw7ptVw+`gi߉I,Ln:׉ENew Year 2025 HAPPY AS THE NEW YEAR DAWNS, WE HOPE IT IS YOUR BEST YEAR YET! CALL US TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION AND ENSURE YOUR ASSETS ARE PROTECTED AND YOUR WISHES ARE HONORED. 863.676.6000 www.welovelaw.com 240 E. Park Ave. Lake Wales, FL 33853 13 ׉ 7cassandra://1ko20dsSeYruaKXKLGMPP_E0pYwaOp13JPAgLtibO7g)D`gi߉I,Ln;gi߉I,Ln:4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://WGzO9k2w0V8J0Lbx5BCkaB7ldUL91AOyyVGd27i3bsE`׉ 7cassandra://Z8VAGmY8_iBbty9Ev2eeM3kVAxfXfBN_MI3t3bsMchMͲ`u׉ 7cassandra://scToty8J8HMy8n1ltwgCUffAI-Ml8PdRV_FRH9-jnjY2`giI,LnטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://TDM27EZFyz1ZS5lvt_6ritsyzzPyTLfVb5UWnLTPemI=`׉ 7cassandra://UN4TxnDm2haU4J5x0tz6KJSWsVU3gZhESay9Wu19Dz4ͳP`u׉ 7cassandra://P7_XBlk0UegrExgJ6_O5TlL9yDZlfLYAVzJM0hmxT_A,`giI,LnנgiI,Ln?B̾9ׁHhttp://LakeAshtonLiving.comׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,LnC9ׁHhttp://LakeAshtonLiving.comׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,Ln?9ׁHhttp://LAKEASHTONLIVING.COMׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,Ln?; 9ׁH!mailto:karen.mclemore@comcast.netׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,Ln[P̾9ׁHmailto:Sandelly7@gmail.comׁ ׁ Ј׉ETOYS FOR TOTS By Fred Halde On behalf of Toys for Tots, Rotary on the Ridge, and countless numbers of kids, I want to extend a sincere “Thank You” to those who generously gave toys and filled the box in the HFC. Through the grapevine I have heard that over 16,000 children were served this year. A big task to say the least. And your contribution, along with many others, helped meet the need. Thank you, LA!!! On a sad note, you may have heard that Toys for Tots may not be in operation next year. With the growing need and the diminishing supply of helpers and route drivers, the health of the operation is in jeopardy. It is unknown if the tide can be turned, but if you might be able to help next year, e-mail polkcountry.fl@toysfortots.org and express your desire to serve. However, for now, many thanks for all of you who gave in the present and the past. Your kindness is appreciated. You make a difference! LA HANDS 4 HOPE YEAR END WRAP UP By Sophia Brennan It's the most wonderful time of the year! LA Hands 4 Hope would like to thank the community for their generosity. On Saturday, December 14, we hosted a beautiful Christmas Lunch for 11 families. Over 50 people attended and enjoyed a delicious meal provided by volunteers from this lovely community, and our group served the families. Kids received a whole bag of clothing and toys. Parents received a lovely gift card. Each family received a beautiful quilt donated by a special resident, Marsha Martin, and her two special friends, Maxine Ritter and Pat Howe, who helped her get ready on time. Santa, Mrs Claus, the Grinch, and Ruby the Elf made a special appearance. The room was filled with so much Joy and Love. Life is good, but it is far better when you serve others. THANK YOU! Thank you to Lynn Shelton, Kathy Williams, and Debby Landgrebe for their help in decorating the Clubhouse Lobby this year. Everything is beautiful and we appreciate you dedicating your time to make the Clubhouse look beautiful. See more pictures on page 28. 14 ׉ 7cassandra://scToty8J8HMy8n1ltwgCUffAI-Ml8PdRV_FRH9-jnjY2`gi߉I,Ln<׉EDRI VE-BY FOOD DRI VE By Dr. Pamela June Everyone has the opportunity to participate in this Day of Service event commemorating the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday on January 18 from 10 am to 2 pm. Drop off non-perishable food items in the Clubhouse Parking Lot, and donations will support the Lake Wales Care Center food assistance programs. Facilitated by the Lake Ashton Black Heritage Club. HOMELESS GRADUAT ING SENIORS By Doris Reisinger How can it possibly be 2025? Time moves on so fast in life. For the teenagers of Polk County who will be graduating these are exciting times. But for some not so exciting. Some (approximately 140) are homeless. Some of those have no family. Any help from government agencies stops once they exit that school. Here is how YOU can help. Gift cards in small amounts of 5, 10 dollars from Walmart or fast food chains. Items such as sheets, blankets, towels and personal items. The committee will be providing a duffel bag for these items. Each bag with contents usually runs around $145. Any financial donations will go towards these bags plus a graduation party where we award a personal computer and scholarships for college. Please see papers with lists of items needed or where to give financially at the Clubhouse Media Center rack or at the HFC brochure wall rack. If you have any questions you can call Doris at 217-652-6636. I also will be at Monday Coffees for information or questions. You can drop off donations at either Activities Office. LITTER CLEANUP By Linda Sandel A Lake Ashton quarterly litter clean-up event is scheduled for Thompson Nursery Road on Thursday January 23. Meet in the Clubhouse Lobby beginning at 8:30 am to pick up trash bags, gloves, safety vests and trash grabbers. Volunteers receive a free t-shirt and Bok Tower ticket each calendar year. Please sign15 up on-line or with Linda Sandel at 863-368-0699 or Sandelly7@gmail.com. Thank you for helping to keep our community beautiful! CHEER NEEDED? Are you or do you know of someone in need of a little extra cheer in the form of a friendly face, a little visit, a pair of hand knit socks, or maybe just a couple of cookies? Contact Karen McLemore at karen.mclemore@comcast.net. UNLOCK THE FULL POTENTIAL OF LAKEASHTONLIVING.COM! By Iris Realmuto Are you making the most of LakeAshtonLiving.com’s incredible features? Join Iris Realmuto on February 3 at 10:30 am in the Clubhouse Cinema for an informative and interactive session where you'll learn how this powerful website connects residents and enhances community engagement. Learn about the resident directory, marketplace, event calendar, ticket sales & event signups, CDD, HOA, club, and activity information, resource listing of service providers and restaurants, and discussion groups. Gain expert insights and get all your questions answered. Don’t miss this opportunity to become a pro at navigating LakeAshtonLiving.com. See you there! The definition of Thrive uses words like grow, develop well, prosper, flourish, you get the idea. Every year in my home we come up with a slogan that we can reflect on when we are trying to shift gears, get to that next level. “In 2025, we will thrive.” Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind. I tell my boys that all the time, its not that you have to do something, its you get to do something! What do you get to do that will help you pass that test in school? What do you get to do for the elderly couple next door to bring them joy? What do we get to do as a married couple to demonstrate to our children what a good relationship looks like? You see when you change your mind set, you will appreciate the outcome. In 2025 we will thrive! -Alex Fuertes, Maintenance Supervisor ׉ 7cassandra://P7_XBlk0UegrExgJ6_O5TlL9yDZlfLYAVzJM0hmxT_A,`gi߉I,Ln=gi߉I,Ln<4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://YhCL7u5vVk58ySo7NsqKd4hrtOHeTPZIqZmzm00YMUEX`׉ 7cassandra://MRs5h3nKwKSxPRgxitOvuD4eLByGCiiRRKOn7CYKfMEͫ`u׉ 7cassandra://4hamp3fHOjRzG0jmpfaXI1kfw8L0hPE80j58BMxaBUM+\`giI,LnטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://o2YvHk2mkZckgsRL0cIgvSsDZ3bTNpAa-veBomT0B5M`׉ 7cassandra://JtS4DvnZ6lQAopBgZK3lf6JuFEMajYLPD2IfIF8IOyIͫ`u׉ 7cassandra://tU-juLqhiNj60JWStSnh4ire5HuXCntYk16grpNqm1I/`giI,LnנgiI,Lnm9ׁH#http://WWW.BROCKSWINDOWCLEANING.COMׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,Ln>>9ׁH#mailto:jkvankirk@lakeashton2cdd.comׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,Ln|9ׁHmailto:cwells@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,LnCӁ9ׁHhttp://lakeashton2cdd.comׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,Ln_Ӂ̲9ׁHhttp://lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ Ј׉ESJOINT AMENI TY POL ICY HIGHLIGHT VI. SUSPENSION AND TERMINATION OF PRIVILEGES i. Offenses: An Individual’s privileges to use the Amenity Facilities may be subject to various lengths of suspension or termination for up to one (1) calendar year, or longer, subject to annual review, by the Board of Supervisors and the Individual may also be required to pay restitution for any property damage or overdue fees/debts owed to either District, excluding payment of non-ad valorem assessments or fees/debts owed to independently operated businesses such as the Clubhouse Restaurant, Eagles Nest, or Lake Ashton Golf Club if he or she: 1. fails to abide by any District rules or policies, including but not limited to these Policies and the Amenity Rate Rules; 2. submits false information on any District document or application; 3. permits unauthorized use of Proper Credentials; 4. exhibits unsatisfactory behavior, deportment, or appearance; 5. engages in unreasonable and abusive behavior that threatens the welfare, safety or reputation of the District, or its supervisors, Staff, contractors, vendors, or other Patrons or Guests; 6. treats the Districts’ supervisor, Staff, contractors, vendors, or other Patrons or Guests in an unreasonable or abusive manner; 7. damages or destroys District property; 8. fails to pay any fees/debts owed to either District, excluding payment of non-ad valorem assessments, THIS IS WHERE NEW MEMORIES ARE MADE CRUISE & LAND VACATIONS or fees/debts owed to independently operated businesses such as the Clubhouse Restaurant, Eagles Nest, or Lake Ashton Golf Club. ii Health, Safety, Welfare: Notwithstanding anything contained herein, the Amenity Manager may, at any time, remove, restrict or suspend an individual’s privileges when such action is necessary to protect the health, safety and welfare of Districts’ supervisor, Staff, contractors, vendors, or other Patrons and their Guests, or to protect the Amenity Facilities from damage. Such restriction or suspension shall commence immediately for up to one (1) year. Suspensions may be appealed in accordance with Section VI, Paragraph v: Appeals. Such infraction and suspension shall be documented by the Amenity Manager. iii Suspension and Termination Process: In response to any violation of the rules, regulations, policies and procedures specified herein, including, but not limited to, those set forth in the section (i) above, the Districts, through its Boards, District Manager, and/ or Amenity Manager, may follow the process outlined below with regard to suspension or termination of a Patron’s privileges: Please note, incidents involving the banning of pets at the Pet Play Park are covered under Section XI. – Amenity Policies – Specific Usage, number xvi. Pet Parks. 1. First Offense – Individuals may be asked to leave the amenities immediately and a verbal/written warning may be issued by Amenity Manager of such violations; the warning shall be summarized in a brief written report by Amenity Manager and kept on file in the Clubhouse and HFC offices. Sally & Ear l Schle y 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 16 2. Second Offense – Automatic suspension by the Amenity Manager of specific amenities up to and including all Amenity Facilities privileges, commencing immediately for up to thirty (30) days. A written report will be created, a letter will be sent by certified mail to the Patron, Supervisors notified, and a copy of such letter kept on file in the Clubhouse and HFC Offices. ׉ 7cassandra://4hamp3fHOjRzG0jmpfaXI1kfw8L0hPE80j58BMxaBUM+\`gi߉I,Ln>׉E3. Third Offense - Automatic suspension by the Amenity Manager from specific amenities up to and including all Amenity Facilities privileges, commencing immediately for up to one (1) year. A written report will be created, a letter will be sent by certified mail to the Patron, Supervisors notified, and a copy of such letter kept on file in the Clubhouse and HFC Offices. iv Jurisdiction Reciprocal: The ability to suspend or terminate privileges as provided herein shall be held by the District, through its Boards, District Manager, and/or Amenity Manager, in whose boundaries the incident occurred. Violations that result in a suspension or termination in one District shall be brought up at the next Board of Supervisors meeting for the other District. Suspension or termination of privileges shall in no way prevent a member of the District Boards, the District Manager, District Staff or members of the public from attending a duly advertised public meeting of either District. v Appeals: Any Individual who has received a suspension for at least thirty (30) days may appeal at the next Board of Supervisor’s Meeting, to be held at least fourteen (14) days after the violation, for the District in which the violation occurred. For periods in excess of ninety (90) days the appeal will be presented at the next Joint Board of Supervisors Meeting. A complete record of all previous documented offenses will be provided. The Board’s or Boards’ decision, as applicable, on appeal shall be final. In the event of an appeal at a Joint Board of Supervisors Meeting, if both boards do not come to a consensus the suspension handed out by the Amenity Manager stands. The full amenity facilities policy can be found online at lakeashtoncdd.com or lakeashton2cdd.com. Contact LA (LW) CDD Community Director Christine Wells (cwells@lakeashtoncdd.com) or LAII (WH) CDD Community Director Karen Van Kirk, (jkvankirk@lakeashton2cdd.com) if you have any questions. WWW.BROCKSWINDOWCLEANING.COM 17 ׉ 7cassandra://tU-juLqhiNj60JWStSnh4ire5HuXCntYk16grpNqm1I/`gi߉I,Ln?gi߉I,Ln>4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://LEEi_oLs477yqPNgfUJgN6MvDtsb1XMFrJJP-uYi2bw`׉ 7cassandra://pxMoy0yRJJZaZQNR7RMCdE9JP-XlO3RQVbF_8xHibfAͣC`u׉ 7cassandra://jnMaXgJrJT8OvG56OJTUzEnE-Y-n47L0ToW5mhbBunY*`giI,LnטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://h3vBsynTSZzqCDdRf0v0yTcl4aGaRR9EqORan8CJ3yUV`׉ 7cassandra://k0H9GzYAJAdfhJWXUHDMIULgUxpFNwOLS4QSyKOoAOE͊`u׉ 7cassandra://sJYdiRS8ZdV2cVsML48CKTrT7TbZvHcx-4SQLtfo4MU0y`giI,LnנgiI,Ln.9ׁH'mailto:Tasha.Saca@horizonwealthplan.comׁ ׁ Ј׉E LA (LW) HOA NEWS L.A. LOOKS Wildlife Corner by Barbara Ann Comer The Roseate Spoonbill is a really We hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season and is looking forward to 2025! We kick off 2025 with our Annual Meeting on February 23 from 2 to 4 pm in the Clubhouse Ballroom. A change to the by-laws regarding estoppels will be introduced at this meeting. We hope to see everyone there. flashy bird that can be found at Lake Ashton most frequently in the summer after breeding birds have dispersed. These large pink wading birds are often mistakenly identified as flamingos. The only expected pink bird at Lake Ashton (and in most of Florida) is the Roseate Spoonbill. It can vary quite a bit in color from pale pink to hot pink! Unlike flamingos the color of the Spoonbill has nothing to do with diet and everything to do with age. Males and females are identical in plumage and females are just as bright as the males as they age. The Spoonbill is named for its bill with a flattened, spoon-shaped tip. They swing their bills from side to side in shallow water while feeding on small fish, crustaceans and insects. They fly with their legs and necks outstretched. Places to see them at Lake Ashton include any body of water, but they seem to especially favor the stream beyond the driving range near the beginning of the West Course. PLEASE REMEMBER TO CLOSE UMBRELLAS AT THE POOL & PET PLAY PARKS ! It costs the District approximately $70 per umbrella to replace. 18 Update on Board Members: Join us in welcoming our two newest Board members, John Donahue as Vice President/ARC Director and W. Glen Hart as VP2/Compliance. Dee Mayne has also agreed to continue in her Board position. Thank you, John, Glen, and Dee, for volunteering and your continued efforts to help our community. With these positions filled, we have a full Board and a nominating committee or voting for new board members will not be necessary in 2025. Great news! 2025 Assessment statements were mailed out on December 15, 2025. Make sure to follow the payment instructions outlined in your statement. Remember, NO PAYMENTS SHOULD BE DROPPED OFF AT THE CLUBHOUSE. Payment is due by January 31, 2025, and is considered late if not paid by February 15, and may incur late fees and interest if paid after this date. If you have not received your statement, please email president@lakeashtonhoa.org or call 863-325-0065, option 5. LA (LW) HOA BOARD • Marti Schmidt, President/Treasurer president@lakeashtonhoa.org • John Donahue, VP & ARC Director vp@lakeashtonhoa.org • Glen Hart, VP2 & Compliance Director vp2@lakeashtonhoa.org • Tim Doyle, Secretary secretary@lakeashtonhoa.org • Deanne Mayne, Secretary 2 & Compliance Director, sec2@lakeashtonhoa.org ׉ 7cassandra://jnMaXgJrJT8OvG56OJTUzEnE-Y-n47L0ToW5mhbBunY*`gi߉I,Ln@׉ERSVP TODAY! Top 5 Investment & Tax Tips for Retirees 2025 Wealth Planning: Top 5 Investment & Tax Tips for Retirees Roth IRA Opportunities: 2025 Market Insights: Explore whether converting to a Roth IRA in 2025 could help lower your future tax burden. Navigate RMDs with Confidence: Understand the latest rules for Required Minimum Distributions and minimize their impact on your savings. Michael Kennedy SPEAKER: Tuesday 1/28/25 @ 1pm HFC Lake Ashton 6052 Pebble Beach Blvd Winter Haven, FL 33884 Lunch Provided! 863-340-6225 REGISTER TODAY Horizon Wealth Planning 1950 Cypress Gardens Blvd Suite C Winter Haven, Fl 33884 Tasha.Saca@horizonwealthplan.com Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax advice. You should discuss any tax matters with the appropriate professional. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA / SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc.. Horizon Wealth Planning is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. 19 Exploring Asset Class Returns and Tax Efficiency Leave a Legacy, Not a Tax Bill: Implement estate planning strategies that protect your heirs and minimize taxes. Events book quickly! Reserve Now! ׉ 7cassandra://sJYdiRS8ZdV2cVsML48CKTrT7TbZvHcx-4SQLtfo4MU0y`gi߉I,LnAgi߉I,Ln@4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://GS6nXR-1deVZtIwKHRZLiH-FZj2tRNv5UiRGXWA9Nlg 9`׉ 7cassandra://suQX3n2urbAwfwIwRVuyqxP8rNHUdcPyI1W2-ofgyioͤ`u׉ 7cassandra://2vtUgo2TAkkA0hfHzKuv6Lm-h35P47MRlHCi_rS7PAM+`giI,LnטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://XiOYnGPAxcwDQLclvvGJTsqWFiIr-8cdfVNQ3XzTlV83`׉ 7cassandra://xRhSQBLzx4Kv74n-pFdDx5a-_VH4NGFhHB4OTexYt2Qd;`u׉ 7cassandra://Jn0t3IvhG9OVGI1AHSP7vdxTKzzjv9xUolcBn7EZS7I%`giI,LnנgiI,Ln9ׁH mailto:mfisher@lakeashtoncdd.comׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,LnS*+9ׁH"mailto:VPTreasurerLA2HOA@gmail.comׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,LnM9ׁH mailto:TreasurerLA2HOA@gmail.comׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,LnM9ׁH mailto:SecretaryLA2HOA@gmail.comׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,LnMg9ׁHmailto:VPArcLA2HOA@gmail.comׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,LnM&9ׁH mailto:PresidentLA2HOA@gmail.comׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,Ln~9ׁH mailto:treasurerla2hoa@gmail.comׁ ׁ ЈנgiI,Ln/ہ9ׁH http://stambaugh.cincwebaxis.comׁ ׁ Ј׉E LAII (WH) HOA NEWS By Connie Strassberg, Treasurer LAII HOA's website is up and running. To have access to announcements, posted documents, directory, calendar, and more, please visit stambaugh.cincwebaxis.com. In the upper right hand corner of the page, you will find the button marked "Sign In". The first time you visit the website and push that button, you will be prompted to sign up. In addition, to get email notifications from the LAII HOA, you must submit an Email Authorization to Stambaugh. Contact them to request a copy of the authorization form or email treasurerla2hoa@gmail.com. LA II (WH) HOA BOARD • President Bill Testa, PresidentLA2HOA@gmail.com • VP- ARC Mike Brennan, VPArcLA2HOA@gmail.com • Secretary Joe Ellwanger, SecretaryLA2HOA@gmail.com • Treasurer Connie Strassberg, TreasurerLA2HOA@gmail.com • Asst Treasurer Ray Rudy, VPTreasurerLA2HOA@gmail.com WHAT IS THE "LITTORAL SHELF" AND WHAT MAKES IT SIGNIFICANT? The portion of the perimeter of a p o n d t h a t 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, 20 Central Native Plants of Florida By Lynn Davis Hamelia paten is the scientific name for the Florida Native Firebush. This bush will put you in the holiday spirit with it’s red blooms. The firebush is a semi-woody perennial often used as a border or privacy hedge. The bush can grow to fifteen feet with a span of eight. This bush produces orange-red flowers and small purple fruits loved by birds. The red flowers on this bush attract hummingbirds and butterflies almost year round! The flowers often bloom from late spring to frost bringing a long lasting interest to anyone’s landscape. Pruning is recommended in either late winter or early spring to prevent harming future flower blooming. A hard pruning can be done to a height about five feet. A severe frost may damage the bush temporarily. This bush is resilient. Just cut off the damage. It will rebound. Known for being a fast grower, it can grow two feet in just a year! Like other native plants, the firebush is heat and drought tolerant, attracts pollinators, and grows well in any type of soil. It thrives best in 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. ׉ 7cassandra://2vtUgo2TAkkA0hfHzKuv6Lm-h35P47MRlHCi_rS7PAM+`gi߉I,LnB׉ELove Life. Love Your Skin Too. Call To Schedule Your Free Skin Cancer Screening! !"# %& ' ( ") ' * +) ,- . +/" 0 123 ( 0" * 4 546 578 . 9:;" < = >? 21 ׉ 7cassandra://Jn0t3IvhG9OVGI1AHSP7vdxTKzzjv9xUolcBn7EZS7I%`gi߉I,LnCgi߉I,LnB4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://ZMojYfEu-tDHdE_IBXCEmr-HXqDE0ZvbZhhpbqmk7JcX`׉ 7cassandra://s-3t5SEL01LWzci_jBWbxOF6hZTGqzWh4qIHXIsVlIMͿB`u׉ 7cassandra://Yt1WoWHRcfMX7t2l3GKH2UynVt-F8pixbq3Ln6q_X2o2p`giI,LnטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://l0C_1TjhbNf5McI1dB0XsOVVA-Qp7xSBA35sAKGThtU9*`׉ 7cassandra://_XzT8r4QRCFHvCv51cDzu-R_GgdnERWTFGTHjGT0v3Ý`u׉ 7cassandra://zggTKwRR3N5dAqPiw2TdLd5hdkRr_rCty-socaJorlw/`giI,LnđנgiI,LnƁ9ׁHmailto:lakeashtoncap@gmail.comׁ ׁ Ј׉ESAFETY NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH (NW) CORNER By Fay Wood, NW Chief Save the Date for the 2025 Police Chiefs Meet & Greet on February 3, 2025! Happy and Healthy New Year! Your Neighborhood Watch Team hopes you and your loved ones had a wonderful Holiday Season. The year 2024 was a phenomenally successful one with our meetings with the Police Chiefs and of course our great Sheriff Grady Judd. We also hosted a phenomenally successful Neighborhood Night Out event along with a booth at the activity fair! We continue to add new members at our Newcomers Orientation that makes Neighborhood Watch the largest organization in Lake Ashton. All those efforts resulted in a “crime free environment” for our great community. This year, 2025, will be even busier with the return of our Police Chiefs and Sheriff Grady Judd in February and March. We will be planning our traditional Night Out Parade with a reception following. This longstanding event encourages neighbors to go and meet each other which is the cornerstone of our Neighborhood Watch Program. There are plans being developed for a Public Safety Expo where our various law enforcement and first responder agencies can be available to provide valuable information for everyone. Many more initiatives are being developed and will be advertised in the future. While Lake Ashton is a very safe community, the price of that is eternal vigilance on all our parts to keep it that way. The unprecedented growth of communities surrounding us dictates that we be even more aware and aggressive in our surveillance of our surroundings. Remember, the heart of our program is “neighbors watching out for neighbors.” We have various materials available from the Police and Sheriff that serve as a great resource for your home and 22 community protection. If you have any questions, please reach out to your Deputy who will be able to help you out. There is a listing of them at both the Clubhouse and Health and Fitness Center. We are always looking for volunteers who can help our Deputies and help the team out. Again, Happy New Year from your Neighborhood Watch Team. CITIZENS ASSISTED PATROL By David Muller HAPPY NEW YEAR! The Citizens' Assisted Patrol (CAP) family wishes everyone a safe and healthy 2025! We hope the Holiday Season was filled with laughter, good food and delicious drinks. CAP has a new (to us) patrol car. Have you seen it? It is a newer, updated one supplied by the Sheriff's Dept. Lake Ashton does not pay anything for the CAP services and vehicles. Remember that CAP personnel are all volunteers for the Sheriff's Dept. but all supplies, training and "atta boys" are courtesy of Sheriff Judd. What does CAP do for you? The group is the "eyes and ears" for the Sheriff's Dept. It looks for anything which may need to be reported for emergency help such as crime, fire or medical events. It is meant to be visible to you AND "bad actors" who may be here to do harm to Lake Ashton. Bad guys don't know when the patrol car will be around looking for them. Also, we love to wave when we patrol. We are all neighbors so being friendly is part of what we do but also making eye contact ensures everyone that they know they are being seen. We want YOU! This cliche is true, as we are always looking for new volunteers to come forward. You would be asked to volunteer two hours a week - that's all! You would fill out an application to the Sheriff's Dept. and take a day of class training. After your class, you would be trained what to do here at Lake Ashton by Mike Weissberg or George Fetcho. One benefit to you is that you learn where all the streets are at the expense of the Sheriff's Dept. You will also receive a monthly schedule showing who is out on patrol and when. Please come forward and fill out an application and be part of CAP. Email Mike Weissberg at lakeashtoncap@gmail.com. ׉ 7cassandra://Yt1WoWHRcfMX7t2l3GKH2UynVt-F8pixbq3Ln6q_X2o2p`gi߉I,LnD׉E23 ׉ 7cassandra://zggTKwRR3N5dAqPiw2TdLd5hdkRr_rCty-socaJorlw/`gi߉I,LnEgi߉I,LnD4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://AvUwQ-muGrH2Wp1XHKQG5eX1HmGYykbxDYMyTmcp7A0~c`׉ 7cassandra://PQhO8k_vmeCc37lPgpMYUmobJ_16PsFx7OwJyaHOoToʹ`u׉ 7cassandra://RYzoCMPq0_GoJk2M3WjO2pyitW2oyiCMKYeIhWYMyM00`giI,LnטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://qhsSFuu5-rPn9VXMdP7L-SjBZCeYuXc9rc0oFR0mUMc\`׉ 7cassandra://SZ0yVkRe5JMgkb8cU0oV5ZboJUhKouOkM9Es-K245eo}`u׉ 7cassandra://cCRSAVI4IhfQlVy644VocbNBBEM-eumLqcd1d2AswRU)`giI,LnȑנgiI,Lnʁw9ׁHhttp://MotorizedScreens.comׁ ׁ Ј׉E WILDLIFE ALERT Alligators and crocodiles are an important part of Florida's heritage and play a valuable role in the ecosystems where they live. Even though the weather might be cooling down, those who live near lakes and ponds should still expect to see alligators from time to time. Remember - never feed or approach an alligator. If you encounter an aggressive alligator, call the Nuisance Alligator Hotline: 1-866-FWC-GATOR (392-4286). Alligators under 4 feet in length are not considered a threat to humans. As long as residents have a healthy respect for wildlife, including alligators, there are opportunities to live and let live. 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. IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY No one plans on an emergency occurring while enjoying themselves at Lake Ashton, but should one happen, there are various emergency assistance items located throughout the Clubhouse and HFC. The first step should always be to call 911 — remember, every second counts. There is an outdoor emergency phone near the East entrance gate of the Clubhouse, next to the large pool rules sign. This emergency phone can be used by all Lake Ashton residents, guests, and employees to contact 911 responders. The phone has a single push button, and an attendant will answer the call within 30 seconds to dispatch emergency responders. All dispatchers are CPR certified to assist with emergencies over the phone until help arrives. The emergency phone allows for automatic identification of the Lake Ashton Clubhouse address. The Clubhouse recently had two additional Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) installed. One is located at the entrance near the Fitness Center Restrooms and once is in the north dressing room near the back entrance to the Cinema. There is also an AED and first aid kit located next to the restrooms across from the Restaurant in the Clubhouse. There is an AED in the HFC Community Center, in the Hallway near the HFC Fitness Center, as well as on both roving patrol carts. It is important to receive training on use of an AED in the event of an emergency. AED and CPR training is offered at various times throughout the year and all residents are encouraged to take advantage of this lifesaving training. The next training opportunity will be on February 12 - see p. 42 for more information. Please take time to locate these lifesaving devices the next time you are at the Clubhouse and HFC, and if you need help locating them, ask a Clubhouse or HFC staff member. 24 ׉ 7cassandra://RYzoCMPq0_GoJk2M3WjO2pyitW2oyiCMKYeIhWYMyM00`gi߉I,LnF׉ESELLING AND INSTALLING IN LAKE ASHTON SINCE 1997 SUNPRO MOTORIZED SCREENS Includes the industry’s longest warranty and 3 remotes! *Smartphone Home Automation available* LIMITED TIME ONLY — UP TO $500 OFF YOUR NEW SCREEN OR AWNING PROJECT Expires 12/2024 UltraShield Hurricane Screens Retractable Awnings Best Warranty in the industry Includes LED lights & 3 Remotes Products & Services • Accordion Shutters • Bahama Shutters • Nautilus Roll Shutters • Hurricane Screens • Retractable Awnings • Lexan Storm Panels • Privacy and Solar Screens • Motorized Screens Visit our Showroom: 3922 Kenilworth Blvd | Sebring FL, 33870 Call (863) 382-2505 for a FREE ESTIMATE or visit us at MotorizedScreens.com Licensed & Insured State License: CRC#1333798 CHECK US OUT ON GOOGLE REVIEWS 25 ׉ 7cassandra://cCRSAVI4IhfQlVy644VocbNBBEM-eumLqcd1d2AswRU)`gi߉I,LnGgi߉I,LnF4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://gXcsHJRvPLCmuV1s7I-tU-jZCwTZpzv0Y5mT7WNmOd4 `׉ 7cassandra://TiXzqIhiJizyBiHHkVJ7LRCBhZrONmUnkaFwZ9xSObYͤ1`u׉ 7cassandra://P_5C2gHpmyS9KxgX1o5SAPwYLmXJi-rWQVgvSOrCIjY-`giI,LnטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://a0GLcm_JdkI7YW6KS2_6SbOwmyFu5Rtc4fZ_jw_hrZI5`׉ 7cassandra://LKi1zUJR_SlEIgYmMedwRBJb88rJHLQkbGu-7v1qj6Eͱ`u׉ 7cassandra://UZreKNZPWc_O2vHa3zpS4C_ffimGOxzradYqHWgJNeA/`giI,Ln׉E *#"=*1$ !"#"$ &'( )*+#"$* ,&( -./&0"12 !"($'34 5 6"7* 8*0"13(#9 :*;# 5 <='/3$"&134 >*#&'(/*#? Denise R. Tessier, Esq. 863.220.7927 Office | 863.225.2244 Direct Info@TessierLawFirm.com !!!"#$%%&$'()!*&'+",-+ 1375 Havendale Blvd. NW | Winter Haven, FL 33881 January games include: January 7, 2025: Individual Game Low Gross/Low Net (individual game) January 14: Pink Ball Shamble – Two Best Nets (team game) January 21 & 22: Niners and Blue Man 2 Day Ringer Tournament January 28: Convert 2 Holes to Par (individual game) Members are encouraged to sign up for the Niners/ Blue Man Tournament, a fun two day Ringer Tournament. Day one, January 21, is a 9-hole Mixed Scramble. Day two, January 22, is a 9-hole Mixed Scramble, trying to improve on the score from the previous day. Sign up January 7 – 20 in the Pro Shop. Luncheon at the Eagle’s Nest to follow golf on Wednesday, January 22. Welcome back to returning member Brenda Bowden, it is nice to see her smiling face again! Happy New Year from the Niners, we hope you all enjoy a happy and healthy 2025! ׉ 7cassandra://S33x0Vo2eadQZBsSxzZa_-ZWflPpe05BBzrTYD7_AQM1`gi߉I,LnZ׉ELAMGA By David Kubissa As the 2024 season rolled to a close, members gathered for golf and the annual meeting and luncheon on December 4. President Rolly Geyer reported at the meeting that the board had three nominations, all from incumbents, for the three open board positions up for election. Rolly, Dan Baun and David Kubissa were all returned to serve two-year terms without opposition. During LAMGA’s monthly business meeting following the annual meeting, the board approved purchase of golf towels for the 2025 members and set up a Season Opener luncheon in conjunction with the January 29 LAMGA game. The menu will be hot dogs, chili and all the fixings. The board also set January 30, 2025 as the deadline for teams to sign up for the Member-Guest tournament. Forms and communications for that event will be forthcoming this month. Above: LAMGA members gather for a lunch and annual meeting in the Eagle’s Nest. Pictured above: The 2025 LAMGA board members are: Jim Shillito, Dan Baun, David Kubissa, Tim Wayt, Rolly Geyer, Larry Wilson. Tournament chairman Tim Wayt recognized the top finishers in the Red Hoagland Hyundai Challenge with gift certificates provided by the auto dealership. Those winners were featured in the December LAMGA article. A new season for the Red Hoagland Challenge begins Jan. 1 and concludes October 31, 2025. Treasurer Dan Baun reported that the league’s financial balance sheet was in good shape as LAMGA heads into the new year. He noted that the annual dues would go to $35 effective February 1 and encouraged members to beat the increase by enrolling in the 2025 season no later than January 31. It also was announced that fees for the MemberGuest tournament March 6-8 would be $200 per player in 2025. 45 ׉ 7cassandra://AlnXcyBK0bVTCkVIolGVdI-C9ira3rLxXLDlJLdmSWQ/`gi߉I,Ln[gi߉I,LnZ4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://6MVvj-T_YFroodxM3BGVVgwbw-MOLJszi0c3bjVodxQR`׉ 7cassandra://WgD8ZcgIHa3I2QY0Z9Mi6UNjSnsRHWUKoXMR3fAv3ksͬ:`u׉ 7cassandra://szTRAroZ_GUx3CJ3qmwGG8AaGVlt-ySOyjuQefostFc0`giI,LnטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://v4YDoovuGIhZ8f085VdB-2_OEAg-7ZpLx-Tf1ayq2Ks3`׉ 7cassandra://2A7mOqOmEkbQf38jF-NqVOG6WaEPPPcrjwBxhyjYgok͆`u׉ 7cassandra://lc4tOg4T7ZpcNozrGspG4RKBjISquktUdqnu_5evwhA.`giI,LnנgiI,Ln9ׁH http://WindowWorldPolkCounty.comׁ ׁ Ј׉E LALGA By Beverly Hines season via LA Hands 4 Hope and the Lake Wales Care Center who provide Christmas meals, as well as gifts for their children. Nancy Zografos, Chair Happy New Year! A new year, a new chapter and tons of new memories to be made together! December 10 was our Holiday Golf and Lunch event. Participants played a 4-person scramble then met at Charm City for delicious lunch. A special guest, Santa, came with sweet treats for everyone. Pictured top left: LALGA Holiday Lunch at Charm City — Bev Hines, Santa (aka Gerry Krogman), Kathy Reed, and Colette McKie. Bottom left: LALGA members Kim Kutch, Sue Buss, Sandra Lancaster and Deb Louder sparkle in their Holiday golf attire. LALGA members donated over 145 toys during the We Care for Kids Toy Drive (just a few pictured here). The toys were distributed to help needy families in Polk County during the holiday 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. The LALGA Golf League will be holding their annual Solheim Cup Tournament on January 13 and 14. This is a two-day tournament open to all LALGA members where they will play with a partner against two other teamed players. They will be assigned to play for the Red Team (USA) or the Blue Team (Europe). January 7 is the Pairing Party following golf that day where players will find out their team color, playing partner and who they will be playing against. Sign up and information will be posted on the bulletin board in the Pro Shop. Members are encouraged to join us for a fun two-day tournament. Mur Bouman, Chair January games: Jan. 7 – 4-Person Scramble Jan. 13-14 – Solheim Cup Tournament Jan. 21 – Pick Your Partner Jan. 28 – 4-Person Shamble Note: Monthly games and information are posted on the LALGA bulletin board in the Pro Shop. Members are encouraged to save the dates for the Member-Member Tournament with the theme Hearts and Carts being held February 10 and 11 with lunch to follow. Liz Leigh, Chair Red Hoagland Challenge Update: Sue Buss 1st place $109.75; Shearly Simpsom 2nd place $98.75; Liz Leigh 3rd place $98.25; and Bev Hines 4th place $96.50. Pictured: Hole in One – Jan Baun – Nov 23, Hole 17 on East Course ׉ 7cassandra://szTRAroZ_GUx3CJ3qmwGG8AaGVlt-ySOyjuQefostFc0`gi߉I,Ln\׉E׉ 7cassandra://lc4tOg4T7ZpcNozrGspG4RKBjISquktUdqnu_5evwhA.`gi߉I,Ln]gi߉I,Ln\4FבCטFu׉׉ 7cassandra://y1OHilFPXI14sldxMIopL4YG2k_XuQXPksRLREAXkVA^`׉ 7cassandra://cfOWJxHqv_BE4KFiSOh6NZ1hrm8FiKRZuRmH7U8yvxE͐`u׉ 7cassandra://oN62RTh9k0kIepL5rAXSdW68KcaPB9ht2mUw4UK2W5s+i`giI,LnנgiI,Ln̏$9ׁH mailto:yogawinterhaven@gmail.comׁ ׁ Ј׉EvBODY MIND SOUL Simply Healthy in 2025! MONDAYS ✴ 9 am: Weight Training - HFC ✴ 10 am: Beginning Chair & Balance - HFC ✴ 11 am: Classical Stretch - HFC ✴ 12 pm: Aqua Reloaded - HFC Pool ✴ 3 pm: Free Virtual Meditation Session via Zoom: yogawinterhaven@gmail.com TUESDAYS ✴ 8:30 am: Water Aerobics - HFC Pool ✴ 9 am: Chair Yoga - Clubhouse Ballroom, $5, no equipment or experience needed ✴ 9 am: Cardio Swing & Yoga Cool - HFC ✴ 10 am: Functional Fitness - HFC ✴ 11 am: POP Pilates - HFC Sports Court - $5 ✴ 4 pm: Aqua Motion - HFC Pool WEDNESDAYS ✴ 8:30 am: Water Aerobics - HFC Pool ✴ 8:45 am: Yoga Share - Clubhouse Ballroom ✴ 9 am: Triple B (Bat Wings, Bellies & Bulges) - HFC ✴ 10 am: Aqua Reloaded - HFC Pool ✴ 3:30 pm: POP Pilates - HFC Sports Court - $5 ✴ 5:25 pm: Zumba - HFC - $5 FRIDAYS ✴ 8:30 am: Water Aerobics - HFC Pool ✴ 9 am: Back to Basics - HFC ✴ 10 am: Aqua Reloaded - HFC Pool ✴ 6 pm: Fit Body By Clinton - HFC - $5 SATURDAYS ✴ 8:30 am: Water Aerobics - HFC Pool ✴ 10:30 am: Fit Body By Clinton - HFC - $5 SUNDAYS ✴ 10 am: Well-being Is Now (W.I.N.) with Rea - HFC - $5 ✴ 3 pm: Aqua Zumba - HFC pool - $5 Wouldn’t it be nice to get up from a chair without making that grunting sound? How about sitting gently and not plopping? Yes, there are ways. Join Kim for the special “Ups & Downs” class on Thursday, January 9 at 11 am at the Clubhouse. $5. THURSDAYS ✴ 8:30 am: Water Aerobics - HFC Pool ✴ 9 am: Cardio Swing & Yoga Cool - HFC ✴ 10 am: Functional Fitness - HFC ✴ 11 am: Classical Stretch - HFC ✴ 11 am: Hatha Yoga with Gina - HFC ✴ 4 pm: Aqua Motion - HFC Pool ׉ 7cassandra://oN62RTh9k0kIepL5rAXSdW68KcaPB9ht2mUw4UK2W5s+i`gi߉I,Ln^׈Egi߉I,Ln_gi߉I,Ln^4F,January 2025 LA Times for webgi۴ˁDYP