report on tHe A Brief History of eAst LAke drAinAge ...elw.homestead.com/HERON/Heron_December_2016_Proof.pdf · • Contractor mobilizes around the first week in January 2017 •

Continued on page 2

A Brief History of eAst LAke WoodLAnds As it reLAtes to tHe UnBoUnd/BoUndJudy Fosbrook, President

What is a “Bound” and “Unbound” development? When the original developer of East Lake Woodlands (ELW)

started this community, they initially planned to build second homes for the golfers of the world, in separately designed projects. Condominiums, townhomes, and single family homes. As construction proceeded, sales were strong; the developer became aware of the popularity and demand for a unified community. Thus, it created a formal community association, a corporation, called the East Lake Woodlands Community Association (ELWCA) with rights and responsibilities in Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws.

For the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws to obligate a purchaser to membership in the community association, these documents had to be part of the sale; attached to the deed of sale and recorded in the public records. Unfortunately, nineteen properties had already been sold and were not bound to the ELWCA because the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws were not part of the sale called “Unbound” properties. Those developments that followed, where the ELWCA Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws were made part of the sale are called “Bound” properties.

Your development is either “bound” to the East Lake Woodlands Community Association or it is “unbound.” The community association no longer was a “clubhouse” group or a “golfers” group, but a group of citizens of all ages and incomes who live in condominiums, townhomes, and single-family homes. Changes in the IRS tax laws eliminating the deduction for second home mortgage interest may also have played a role. Residents were more likely to be permanent residents, not seasonal. There is a mix of “Bound” and “Unbound” condominiums, townhomes and single-family homes.

Early on, in the management of the community, expenses to maintain the community fell to the responsibility of the developer. When the original developer had completed its sales, the transition from the developer to East Lake Woodlands Community Association (ELWCA) controlled management occurred. Initially, the difference between “bound” and “unbound” developments was not a problem. All associations agreed to pay a monthly assessment and followed the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of the ELWCA.

In 2000, some associations objected to the amount of fees, and arguments ensued. Lawyers were hired; research showed nineteen developments were not bound, a lawsuit was filed and the judge confirmed that if the ELWCA Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws were not part of the initial sale of the property those property owners were not bound to pay assessments, or abide by the rules within the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws. This also dictated that the gates had to be left open as not to impede the rights of unbound residents to come and go. The gate aspect created the label of the lawsuit as the “Gate Case.” This caused a potentially catastrophic reduction in revenue for the ELWCA, a major quandary for the management of the property because ELWCA had both a long and short range budget for the entire community, including reserves and contractual commitments.

Up until that time, the ELWCA was unaware that the developer failed to bind all associations to the Community Association. Faced with this unanticipated challenge, to satisfy an intent to maintain a high standard of care for the entire community, protecting property

report on tHe drAinAge MAintenAnce progrAMJudy Fosbrook, President

A few months back, I indicated that I would report to all residents on the progress of the drainage maintenance program. The following is a timeline of the project to date (as of this article going to the Heron on 11/20). In a space where you see an * that means that I did not have the information

at print time. However, by the time you are reading this, that information will be on the website with the blanks completed. Your Board and the Lakes and Drainage Committee have spent many hours preparing the RFP, securing an engineering consultant, and contracting for a project manager. Now that all that has been completed, here is the timeline to date:

•RFP released on 10/14/16•Pre-bid meeting on 10/24/16•Board to review and approve method of cost sharing by the

community. *•Contractor bids due on 11/21/16•Committee review of bids received on 11/22/16•Committee recommendation of contractor and Board

approval 11/23/16 •Club Corps contract completed and signed no later than

12/5/16•Secure funding no later than 12/9/16•Award contract on 12/16/16 at a total cost of

*_____________•Contractor mobilizes around the first week in January 2017

• Weekly contractor reviews with monthly progress reports to Board until completion• Project completion date 5/31/17

When construction begins, there will be certain times when a road may have equipment on the side. Please be patient with the contractors. The workmen will all be identified by their name, and the name of their company. There will also be times that they may be working in close proximity to personal property. If you have a question, please direct it to Management & Associates and they will contact the project manager.

There may also be times that an area on either of the golf courses will be closed off. Even though we know some work will disrupt play, play will continue. The contractors have information on how to access certain areas as well as days that they cannot work on the course. There should not be any long-term delays.

Our goal is to have the project completed by May 31, 2017 well in advance of the next rainy season.

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Official PublicatiOn fOr East lakE WOOdlands cOmmunity assOciatiOn

Volume 16 | Issue 12 | 2016 www.eastlakewoodlands.com

East LakE WoodLands Community assoCiation - dECEmbEr 20162

HOA Publishers, Inc. 727-403-5506

5420 Pioneer Park Blvd. Suite C Tampa, FL, 33634 Submit articles to:

www.HOApub.comProduction Manager ........Claudia Huerta

Director of Bus. Development ... Jarrod Wallach

The East Lake Woodlands Heron is distributed free by HOA Publishers to all East Lake Woodlands residents, paid for through ad revenue. The Eastlake Woodlands Board of Directors welcomes all residents to submit positive and informative articles about our community.

Total Circulation: 4,500Mailed to all homes in East Lake Woodlands and available online.

www.EastLakeWoodlands.com

The Heron assumes no responsibility for the advertising contents of its publication. No endorsement of any product or service is made by the Heron and none should be inferred. We reserve the right to reject any advertisement that we believe would not benefit the residents of East Lake Woodlands. We do not knowingly accept objectionable or fraudulent advertising.

Judy fosbrook, presidentChairman: Administrative [email protected]

keith crank, Vice presidentChairman: Controlled Access [email protected]

Janet peterson, treasurerChairman: Finance [email protected]

chuck fairman, secretaryChairman: Roads [email protected]

pam Brown, directorChairman: Grounds/Irrigation [email protected]

richard corrigan, directorChairman: Government Relations/[email protected] Hunt, directorChairman: Communications [email protected] picker, directorChairman: Lakes/Drainage [email protected] WhiteheadChairman: [email protected] L. soderland, [email protected] and Associates720 Brooker Creek Blvd. #206 Oldsmar, FL 34677813-433-2000

eLW coMMUnity Assoc., inc. BoArd of directors

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A Brief History of East Lake Woodlands as it relates to the Unbound/Bound... continued from page 1

values and keeping all residents in the “family,” bound and bound, the ELWCA board sought the cooperation of the unbounds and offered a contractual relationship to keep a strong budget with reserves maintaining the quality of the entire property. A new, second fee structure was created (a reduced fee as an incentive) and a long-term contract was offered to create continuity with vendors servicing ELW.

The ELWCA board started the process of drawing up a single contract for all unbound associations to give the community association the required “advance notice” of future years’ income so that budgets and reserves could be allocated properly. A committee was formed to start the development of an agreement under which all unbound associations would be contracted (excluding those associations now non-members as result of the gate case). After months of negotiations and “tweaking” of the agreement, it was presented to the unbound membership with a planned contract start date of January 1, 2003. At the time of the negotiations, the bound member’s contract specified annual increases in dues could not exceed 10%. The ELWCA exercised sound business judgment to preserve and protect the entire community.

The proposed agreement for the unbound associations provided for an annual increase in dues not to exceed 6.5%. Residents have questioned the origin of the figure. In researching this article, I have looked through many, many files and spoken with board members who participated at that time. These discussions and document research have not provided any concrete explanation for the 6.5% limit, other than a “business decision”. The contracts, however, went forward and were signed by thirteen of the nineteen unbound associations. Five of them are non-members because of their participation in the “Gate Case”. Quail Forest was willing to remain a voluntary member but could not agree on a maintenance fee, and thus are not a member. We hope for and continue to invite their membership.

Now fast forward to 2016: The Community Association Board has been working with the unbound associations re-signing their 15-year contracts. At this writing, two associations have signed their new contract; one contract has been extended to 12/31/2019 as a result of their owing back dues; only three have indicated they will not re-sign. Please look on our website for an update on the status of the remaining unbound associations.

I hope this helps everyone understand the history of ELW and why we are what we are!

HoLidAy sHopping tipsby Judy Gauron, Controlled Access Commit-tee

‘This the season many of us will be shopping for gifts and looking for bargains, but so will the thieves. Be proactive in your personal security and avoid creating an opportunity to be a victim.

Out and About:•Be aware of your surroundings, look around, up ahead and

behind you before entering or exiting the safety and security of your vehicle or shopping mall, Most importantly, always report any/all suspicious persons, vehicles or activity you observe immediately to mall security and/or local law enforcement.

•Park in well lit, highly visible and traveled areas of a parking garage. Always try to park as close as you can to an entry or exit door of a shopping mall.

•Be sure to lock your car. Double check that all doors are locked and that the windows are rolled all the way up before you leave your car unattended. Engage your car’s audible alarm system,

•When shopping at night, try to avoid going alone. Bring a friend or family member to go shopping with you.

•Teach your children to immediately go to an information desk, a front counter or try to find a store clerk, a security guard or a law enforcement officer to help them in the event that they should ever become lost or separated from you while shopping.

•Be mindful of your purse and wallet. Keep purses held tightly under your arm, not hanging off your shoulder or in a shopping cart. Keep wallets in an inside jacket pocket or front pants pocket.

•Avoid carrying excess amounts of cash or credit cards. Take only what you need for your purchases. Keep the records and card numbers of all your credit cards in a secure location should you ever need them to report them lost or stolen.

•Don’t overburden yourself when carrying out bags or packages to the car. Always store and secure any items of value, purchases or packages in the trunk of your car. Keep them out of sight.

•When leaving the shopping mall, always have your keys in your hand, ready to go. That way you can enter the car as quickly as possible. Also, in the event of an emergency you can activate your car’s audible alarm via the “panic button” on your key chain.

East LakE WoodLands Community assoCiation - dECEmbEr 2016 3

eAst LAke WoodLAnds coMMUnity pAtroL report

tampa road gate 727-785-7384 or north gate 727-785-1465

october 2016Patrol Officers responded to 61 callsEmergency Calls 0Complaint Calls

(Noise, speeders, solicitors,Domestic disputes, trespass, fireworks, suspicious persons/cars)

27

Parking Violations 72Irrigation Calls 2Motor Vehicle/ Pedestrian Accidents 4Crimes Reported

(Vandalism to mailboxes, gates, grass damage, stolen bikes, dumping, all other criminal activity)

2

Miscellaneous/Other(Welfare checks, pets, wildlife, all others) 26

The Sheriff monitored 33 hours during October 2016 Performed 3 Hours of Presence/Visibility.Citations 6, Warnings 41Top speed: 45/30 MPH. 29/20 MPH.

oUtside tHe gAtesby Richard Corrigan, Director ELWCA

On October 17 the Council of North County Neighborhoods (CNCN) sponsored a public forum on Surface Water and Runoff at the East Lake Woodlands Country Club. In the face of the windup of the hurricane season and the current efforts to improve the East Lake Woodlands drainage system, the forum was timely and informative for both East Lake residents as well as surrounding communities and their residents.

Speakers from both the South Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) and from Pinellas County’s environmental department gave detailed presentations on a wide range of topics that focused on the topography of the local environment and what we as residents and our Home Owners Associations can do to minimize the impact of storm water and landscaping maintenance on our neighborhoods to reduce the potential for flooding and keep our neighborhoods and their lakes and ponds functioning as healthy parts of the eco-system.

SWFWMD focused on the “Big Picture” with a detailed look at the drainage basin that surrounds East Lake Woodlands including the Anclote River, Lake Tarpon, the Outfall Canal and Brooker Creek. It is pretty clear that as a geographic area we have a number of challenges in keeping our “feet dry” even in modest climatic events. The area is subject to flooding, storm surge and a natural environment that only can absorb water to a point.

A very interesting note was that the soil type on the east side of Lake Tarpon differs markedly from that on the west side. Palm Harbor and environs have a sandy soil which drains quickly, while the East Lake area, being a deciduous forest bottomland, has a soil that is a mix of sand and loam. This composite is better than, say, clay in absorbing water but once saturated does not have the same filtration patterns as sandy soil, this leading to surface water retention. Despite that characteristic, SWFWMD reported that the storms of July and August in 2015 were a once in a 500 year event, in reality had a .0002 chance of occurring again, as no records go back that far.

Therefore it appears the East Lake area including our community but also Tarpon Woods, which has had extensive drainage work done by the county, and other neighborhoods like Brookers Landing performed reasonably well in those and subsequent storms. Further, the decision by the Tampa Bay Water Authority, which provides our drinking water, to reduce pumping from the aquifer in north county and rely on surface water (reservoirs, for potable water has had a significant impact on the absorption capacity of the aquifer and the speed with which surface water drains into those limestone caverns that make up the regions bedrock levels. As an overview SWFWMD’s presentation was excellent and the hydrologists and engineers are keeping a close watch on the basin in which we live.

Pinellas County representatives focused on two particular areas of interest, firstly the dangers inherent in an area impacted by or with the potential for heavy rains, tropical downpours, storm surges and tidal flooding. The staff was able to give a number of pointers on how individual homeowners can “waterproof” their properties to minimize the impact of flooding. For example, who would consciously raise the sitting of their air conditioning units and heat pumps, as well as hot water heaters a couple of feet to reduce the possibility of water damage.

Emphasis was also placed on storm readiness and the necessary preparedness and evacuation routes we all should have in our minds, and prepare for, prior to hurricane season. Lastly the emphasis on adequate flood insurance, and cleanup coverage post storm, was emphasized. The beautiful oak trees and palms we have in our neighborhoods cannot survive excessive wind and we may find the cleanup costs are worse than the water damage.

The second presenter from the County focused on environmental considerations that can keep the ponds and lakes as well as swales and drainage systems we rely on to move storm water away quickly from our residences. Maintaining a healthy environment of aquatic plants and shoreline planting can protect the banks of our ponds from erosion, while reducing the fertilizer and pesticide runoff can help these first line of defense remain healthy and capable of absorbing significant amounts of water quickly.

The East Lake Woodlands Community Association maintains a regular dialogue with the county and can point homeowners and

HOAs to those resources as needed. In addition, CNCN and ELWCA members have access to the slide presentations of both SWFWMD and the County and would be pleased to present them at HOA meetings if requested.

A significant amount of literature is available on-line from both agencies and we would encourage you to visit www.PinellasCounty.org or www.swfwmd.state.fl.us for information, maps, publications or to sign up for the regular newsletters of interest to all Floridians.

So no matter where you celebrate the Thanksgiving and Christmas Holidays remember that summer is only 6 or 7 short months away and planning for a storm season is best done when the likelihood of storms is modest. However, don’t let that thought interfere with your enjoying turkey, grandkids, and mistletoe - HAPPY HOLIDAYS and a JOYOUS 2017 to all.


Management & Assocs.813-433-2000AberdeenCluster 1Cluster 2Cluster 3Condo 5Cross CreekCypress 1ELW Community Assn.EnclaveGreenhaven 1Greenhaven 2Greenhaven 3 & 4PinewindsPinnacleQuail ForestSilverthorneSt. AndrewsWoodlands EstatesWoods LandingWorthington

Ameri-Tech Prop. Mgmt.727-726-8000Condo 2Condo 4Condo 7CreeksideTurtle Creek 1 & 2Associa Gulf Coast (813) 963-6400Condo 3Caliber Management727-796-1996Condo 1Condo 6Citadel Management727-938-7730Cypress 3Woodlake Run 1, 2 & 3Jim Nobles727-447-8949Stonebriar

e.L.W. MAnAgeMent coMpAniesFirst Choice Management727-785-8887Lake EstatesPreserveWoodridge GreenInnovative Community Mgmt.727-938-3700MuirfieldElite Property Mgmt.727-224-1871The Meadows Hunter’s CrossingProgressive Mgmt.727-773-9542Cypress 2Cluster 4Cluster 5Heatherwood/Laurel OaksPatio Homes

Property Group of Cent. Fla.727-771-7753Diamond CrestIsleworthResource Management727-796-5900DeerpathHunter’s TrailSentry Management727-799-8982KingsmillCypress ITurtle Creek 3 & 4Holiday Isles Prop. Mgmt.727-548-9402Cross PointeSelf-ManagedAvenelLake Shore VistaWarwick HillsThe Cove at East Lake Woodlands

As of 10/18/2016

MAking A differenceby Jeff Hunt, Chairman of Communications Committee

“It’s easy to make a buck. It’s a lot tougher to make a difference.”- Tom Brokaw

2016 was a busier than average year for your ELWCA Board of Directors. The revitalization of the Eastlake Woodlands master drainage system required the dedication of an enormous

amount of time, thought and cooperation between the ELWCA Board, Management and Associates, individual communities, individual residents and the ELW Country Club. Responding to lawsuits (e.g. Cross Pointe) has also taken up a nice chunk of time (and money). Ensuring that the new Landscaping company keeps our grounds looking good has required a higher level of diligence than in previous years. Quicker than anticipated deterioration of roads in certain areas has caused an increased need for planning, prioritizing, funding and scheduling repairs to ELWCA roads. More time has been spent this year working with local, county and state officials to ensure that issues of importance to ELW get the necessary attention they deserve. We also welcomed a new Captain to our Controlled Access company and our ELWCA Manager is completing her first year on the job. (Whew). And guess what? 2017 promises to be even more challenging for the direction of our Community.

So why did I recite the above list to you? It’s very simple. Your ELW Community needs more of you to make a positive contribution to your Association. I’ve gone on record many times in this space over the years to state the Community’s need for residents of good will to volunteer their time free of any agendas. Again, it’s very simple, just volunteer to HELP. 2016 was a good year. We saw 3 or 4 residents step up. Most years it’s just crickets. Heck, I’d be so happy that if 12 people out of our Community of about 10,000 would actually serve on a Committee, I might just take off streaking down ELW Parkway!!! Please note: the key word in the last sentence was MIGHT.

Seriously people, we live in a Community the size of a small city. The evolution of Eastlake Woodlands and our bound/unbound structure makes the “governing” of our Community much more difficult than it really should be. As we move into 2017, my HOPE is we can all agree to do our parts to make a positive difference in our Community and for the betterment of this unique place we all call HOME.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!


listed should be placed in areas with high levels of bright light but no direct sun. Also, keep them out of drafts; either cold from a door or in front of air-conditioning or heating vents.

After the holidays, all of the mentioned plants except the cyclamen can be added to your landscape. I call Amaryllis the Florida tulip, the bulbs will thrive and multiply in well drained soil in a site with morning sun and some dappled

afternoon shade. I plant several in large pots so that I can protect them from hungry deer. They bloom around March or April every year. The bulb that is forced to bloom at Christmas will not bloom the first spring it is planted but should reward you for years after. Begonias and impatiens do very well in our winter landscapes. Impatiens need frost protection and can become deer candy, so containers might be the best idea for these plants also. Kalanchoe is perennial in our area and enjoys full sun and well drained soil. Rosemary planted in the landscape can become a small shrubby bush and will provide fresh rosemary for culinary uses year round.

Beyond poinsettiAs - ALternAtiVe HoLidAy pLAnts Pam Brown, ELW Resident

Do you automatically go out the beginning of December and purchase a poinsettia as part of your holiday decorating? Poinsettias are traditional holiday plants and are quite lovely, but there may be other plants that can add some

variety to your holiday decorating.My all time favorite is amaryllis. But, holiday cactus, cyclamen,

kalanchoe, red or white begonias and impatiens, even a topiary rosemary tree are also popular choices. When choosing plants with blooms, look for those with only a few blooms open and plenty of buds, healthy foliage and a compact form. For amaryllis, look for plants with the bloom stalk part way up and the bud well formed. If you purchase an amaryllis in one of the prepackaged boxes, be sure to open the box to see if the bulb has already sprouted a bloom stalk that is twisted inside the box. These bloom stalks will not straighten, so only choose those with bulbs that are not sprouted or are just beginning to sprout.

The most crucial tip for keeping these plants looking good through the holidays is proper watering. Make sure that the pot containing the plant has bottom drainage holes. Plants in small containers can dry out quickly, so you should check them daily. Put your finger in the soil, if the top inch is dry it is time to water. Over watering is just as bad is under watering and plants do not like to sit in water. If they come in a decorative foil or plastic wrapper covering the pot, take it off or punch holes in it, then water them and let them drain well before placing it on a water proof container to protect your table tops.

Keep blooming plants in cooler temperatures to preserve the blooms longer. Cyclamen prefer very cool temperatures, so if you place them in a protected area outside over night when no frost is predicted, the blooms will last longer. Be sure to bring them inside in the morning before any sun reaches the plants. The other plants Rosemary topiary

Double Amarylis

Red Impatiens


controLLed Accessby Keith Crank

There is a misnomer in our community about the controlled access we have for Eastlake Woodlands. I constantly hear our controlled access called security. The definition of controlled access is the physical control of who, where, and when someone is allowed to enter our community. Our controlled access system determines who is allowed to enter, where they enter, and when they are allowed to enter. At our unmanned

gates this is accomplished with the bar codes our residents are required to have. At the manned gates access is controlled by either the bar code for residents or by the controlled access guards at the gates who record the name of the driver, his destination and his license number.

There are those who feel this is inadequate and there should be much greater restriction placed on who can enter. There are programs that could be implemented but as with everything it would cause a very large increase in the amount we would have to pay for such a system. One of the systems would be that residents would notify the manned gates as to persons they were expecting but should someone come to visit a resident and not be on the list of expected visitors the guards would call the resident to see if it were okay to allow them to enter. If the resident were not at home or answer the call, the visitor would not be allowed to enter the community.

Can you imagine if someone drove in from Miami to visit a resident and was not allowed to enter the community due to the reasons cited above. Not only would the visitor be upset, but also I am certain the resident would also be upset.

I have been asked to mention in my article that motorcycles are allowed in Eastlake Woodlands. The rule not allowing motorcyles was repealed a couple of years ago. Also since Eastlake Woodlands is a golf course community golf carts are also allowed on the streets of our community if driven by a licensed driver.

On a lighter note my community of Worthington held a great block party for our residents that we hope to be an annual event. A great

time was had by all and to see the children actually playing with each other was such a pleasure.

Seeing this took me back to the early 90’s before all of the new technology. On behalf of our entire community I want to say a a special thanks to Jill and Megan for doing such a great job.

Great job ladies. Thanks a million. Also thanks to those who helped the ladies setting up for the block party.

As always should you need to get in touch with our community patrol officers call 727-785-7384. For all emergencies always call 911. Pinellas Sheriff’s non-emergency number is 727-582-6200. Here’s wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and go ahead and forget the diet for one day and enjoy all that great food someone has gone to great length to prepare for this special day.


Bird of tHe MontHcAttLe egret

By Jake Jacoby

The Cattle Egret is native to Africa and Asia, and only reached the Americas in the late 19th century. However, it is now one of the most recognized white-colored birds in North America. It was first found in Northeastern South America in 1877, reached the United

States in 1941, and started nesting by 1953. In the next 50 years it became one of the largest groups of the North American Herons. It has now spread-its-wings all the way to Alaska and Newfoundland, and has bred in nearly every state.

The Cattle Egret is an opportunistic feeder, and will follow large animals or machines to catch insects that they stir up. It is also attracted by smoke from a

large fire and these birds have been known to come from long distances to catch insects trying to escape the fire. Cattle Egrets are able to gather 50% more food and use only two-thirds as much energy when they feed in association with livestock as opposed to feeding alone. They have also been observed alongside the runways of airports waiting for airplanes to pass and blow insects out of the grass.

The Cattle Egret will occasionally add birds to its diet when insects are not available. At Fort Jefferson in the Dry Tortugas, some 80 miles west of Key West, Florida, migrating Cattle Egrets land on the large green lawn inside the fort, probably hoping for some nice grasshoppers. Because no insects are there to be had, the egrets try to catch the migrating warblers that also have stopped on the tiny island in the Gulf of Mexico.

Each season, male Cattle Egrets will claim a territory before mating begins and will go through a variety of display behaviors to attract females. Females will gather in their territory and sometimes jump on the backs of the males. Eventually, the male will evict all but one female. Both the male and the female work on building a nest. The male brings the materials, sometimes stealing sticks from the nests of other egrets. The female constructs the nest. The nest is made of sticks and built in a bush or a tree. The female lays three to five eggs and both parents incubate the eggs. The chicks hatch in three to four weeks and fledge when they are a month old. Both parents care for the chicks. Cattle Egrets are very social and gather in large colonies of egrets and other bird species. A group of Cattle Egrets are collectively known as a “stampede of egrets”.

Please see my favorite photo’s at: www.flickr.com/jake_jacoby

Jake

Male bringing home nesting material

Bird fActWhy do birds preen themselves?

Mites and some other parasites eat feathers, damaging hooks and barbules (parts of feathers). Preening helps get rid of these pests but often isn’t enough, so many birds engage in additional activities. One activity is called “anting,” when birds take advantage of the formic acid or another strong chemical in ants to repel mites. There are two techniques for anting. In passive anting, the bird sits still, almost as if in a trance, on an anthill or other spot where ants are swarming, allowing them to crawl through their feathers. In active anting, the bird picks up an ant and smears it on its feathers. Sometimes after this active anting, the bird will eat the remaining ant.

Birds also bathe in water, snow, or dust. It seems odd to image bathing in dirt, but snow and dust baths can be used to scrape off a lot of parasites.


fiVe HoLidAy ideAs for eVery HoMeBy Sally Giar

Here are some sure-fire tips to help your home embrace the holiday season!1. Candles, Candles, Everywhere!

Well, maybe not EVERYWHERE, but certainly candles are appropriate in many rooms in your home. Nothing softens a room more than the soft glow of candlelight! Tall and tapered, short votives, star shaped- colors and scents abound! Remember groupings of varying heights will be YOUR key to a successful candle display!2. Sparkle!

Mirrors, silver and gold ornaments, picture frames, and even candlesticks will help your room shine. Don’t be afraid to mix metals. And by all means get out that antique silver, polish it up, and put it center stage! Nothing says “Holidays” like the twinkle of hundreds of tiny white lights. The smallest of plants to the largest of Ficus trees will come alive when you add a few inexpensive strands of white lights. Also, consider draping white lights inside silver netting or garland, and wrap your staircase in a fabulous and unique new look.3. Chic Table Tops!

Setting a beautiful table can set the mood for all your holiday entertaining. Try adding bows to the stems of wine glasses. Fold napkins in a special way, and tie them together with a gold tassel. Use gold or brass chargers under your special china. And pull it all together with a table runner and a wonderful holiday floral or greenery arrangement.4. Merry Mantles!

It all starts with a theme! Possibilities might include your prize collection of antique Santas, snowmen, birdhouses or reindeer. Whatever theme you select, use different shapes and sizes to create visual interest. Unify your display with garland, ivy, magnolia leaves, or anything else that is soft and easily draped.5. Festive Fruits and Vegetables!

Put the “green” in your holiday decorating by using nature’s bounty in a decorative way. Adding cloves to oranges, limes or lemons will create a beautiful and fragrant pomander. Simply stacking fresh lemons or limes in a tall glass hurricane can make a truly impressive decorative statement.

HistoricAL Bits And piecesBy Paul J.H. Leaser

BOArd GAMESIn the Late 1800’s and early 1900’s , gaming

tables were a popular furniture item, large enough for a family to gather around, small enough for everyone to see the game’s progress. They were popular for their lithography and

their graphics irresistible. The interest to many was a product of their times and changes as social and economic variables impinged. The collectability of these games will never die. New games appear regularly. They still follow contemporary fads and science, and they still have the built-in possibility of one day in the future being a sought after collectible.


www.eastlakeeyecare.com Dr. Tara Rusoff Dr. Stephanie Coates

Eye Exams, Contacts, Outside Prescriptions, Insurance accepted Location: East Lake Rd and Tampa Rd – East Lake Woodlands Shopping Center

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(727) 781-7922

727-785-7330

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reAL estAte todAy!Hugh A. Lichter, M.A. REALTOR®, Century 21 East Lake Realty

Turn on your TV nearly any time during the day or night and you are sure to find a “reality show” on home buying, home renovations, investing in real estate, etc.

These shows depict generally good-looking, well-dressed, eager, and attentive agents, contractors, investors, and buyers in home markets where prices are generally high and homes are generally large.

One show has agents and contractors simultaneously spending large sums on getting a home ready to sell, while at the same time, the seller is now out looking for the next home. Another one has the agents or contractors shopping for tile, carpet, furniture, and décor, while the other “partner” is marching the seller (now buyer) through multiple “next home” possibilities.

These shows are highly entertaining, offer a peek into the process, and sell a great deal of advertising. In general, however, they are not “reality”!

Few of these “stories” depict the real business of selling, renovating, and buying a home.

For instance, if a home seller who is “moving up” has available cash, few realtors will recommend using a large portion of it to renovate a home for the purpose of a sale. After all, the funds would be better utilized for the down payment on the future home, and the buyer of the “outgoing” property would want to make their own decisions on flooring, bath and kitchen updates, etc. Sure, doing minor “fix up” and cosmetic repairs are important in the home selling process, but unless a home has been truly neglected, the money would be far more wisely spent on the future purchase.

Few, if any, of these shows depict the “grunt” work of applying for a mortgage and providing the large amount of documentation required. Few, if any, of these shows depict the large amount of time actually spent in the home-buying and home-selling process. Few, if any of these shows depict the stress and strain of getting the home “depersonalized” for the sale, or the organizing, packing, moving, unpacking, and re-organizing of the household into the new home.

Nobody in the real estate business would argue against watching these shows. After all, the more that folks pay attention to the real estate, home renovation, real estate investing, and lending business,

the more active the real estate market becomes! And, certainly, we can all get ideas from these shows, and that’s a good thing!

But, we all need to remember that TV is entertainment and the reality is what happens every day in our business! Knowing what’s important in the home buying or selling process is what separates entertainment from reality!

If you are even thinking of selling, you owe it to yourself to have a conversation with a real estate professional. We can give you sound advice and good, solid local market info that will greatly assist you. And, if you or someone you know is even thinking of buying, a real estate professional is best able to go over price, payment, location, and value information for this very large decision.

I would be happy to be that real estate professional for you, your friends, and your family!Hugh A. Lichter, MA, Century 21 East Lake realty, at 727-421-5010.


FOR SALEPorsche Boxster, 2001 Like new, senior ELW owner, 87,000.mi. $10,750. - 727-781-1578White kitchen sink Deluxe 33”x19x8”. Finish Biscuit,like new$95. 727-474-7548 - 727-474-7548All oak wood wall unit holds 42” TV curios CD Orig $1800 asking only $300 OBO - 727-786-09382015 Chrysler300 Limited Loaded 18k miles Like New White W/tan leather $23,900 - 727-233-2872Battery operated cart w/ oxygen holder, adjustable speed $350. Wheelchair $100 - 727-785-2485HOME HEALTHCARE AIDE Bonded,experienced,great references.I will help you!Valerie - 845-235-2852FOR SALE SCHWINN 26” MENS BICYCLE BRAND NEW, STILL IN BOX. NICE GIFT! $70.00. - 727 784 9205New 6 foot truck bed liner, heavy duty asking $25. - 727-781-9152Sewing machine. Pfaff Creative 1471 with Homespun EZ Lift. $800 - 727-333-7344Tuff Stuff free weight Lat Machine in great condition $100 obo. - 314-799-9731 3 Living Rm tables glass/chrome-1 rect 2 square great condition $200 OBO - 727-270-7160Light green love seat excellent condition $300 OBO - 863-353-8643Ken Edward, Mexican plates and serving pieces. $10 and up. - 727-939-82337pc PVC Pipe Patio Set 4 chairs, 42” Table, Lounge Chair and Ottoman $150.00 - 727-504-2826Thomasville-Tuscany lg coffee table 57x39” Beautiful wood wth 2 drawers $500 - 727-375-0881GOLF CART. Club car, 3 passenger Green New batteries and charger. $ 1250 - 727 474 3630Used JAZZY electric wheelchair. $400.00. Call 727-272-2824 - 727-372-2824Bissel Expert, PRO-Heat Carpet Cleaner, $150 new, $90 OBO. Used 5 times. - 727-741-6247 Mens biclyle for sale. Need 1 tube for tire. $20 - 317-627-8142Broyhill Fontana BR Set ALL-$200 2 Night Stands, 5 Dwr Chest, Qu Bed - 727-504-2826FOR SALE MIKASA Dishes/FOOTLOOSE Service/8 Over 60 pcs Value $1000 $250 OBO - 727-934-7422Armoire desk, bookshelf, chair $350.Leather loveseat $150. Baseball net$100 - 727-698-0888Beautiful dark brown sectional sofa with chaise and sleeper. 7274218271 - 727-421-8271Sewing Machine, Janome Excelent condition $100. - 727-7874629For Sale Lift chair,gently rocks and reclines. Excellent condition.$225. - 727 474 7548Cats for adoption.(3-8 yrs. old). Fully Clothes Dryer. Used for only a few months. In excellent condition. ELW resident $100. 727-244-0345Yard blower $20 - 727-375-4389Jazzy chair select had for a year barley used. - 727-771-2890Whirlpool Dishwasher in good condition. $150 obo - 727-793-4076Whirlpool Stove in good condition. $150 obo - 727-793-4076Whirlpool microwave in exec. condition. $50 obo - 727-793-4076Whirlpool refrigerator in exec. condition.$300 obo - 727-793-40764 five gal. plastic gas cans $10 each - 727-784-7535Coffee table by Stanley - Luna finish (lite oak) wood & glass 36” square; in

VERY good condition; $175. Call 727-366-1127Entertainment armoire by Stanley - Luna finish (lite oak wood} 35” W x 58” H; excellent condition. Two doors on top area that slide to sides of TV ; two cabinet doors on bottom. $150. Call 727-366-1127

for rent 2 Bed, 2 Bath Villa, Golf Community, FL, lanai, courtyard - $1425. - 727-789-4397River Ridge The Oaks 7925 Chadwick Drive New Port Richey Florida 34654. 3 BDRM 2 Bath Master walk in closet. Eat in Kitchen , living room , dining room open floor plan laundry room 2 car garage, all rooms ceramic tile, deposit required. $ 900.00 per month. Screened Lanai large back yard. Community Pool Included. 727-946-7455

Job seekersStart your own business backed by a company with more than a century of quality and service for only $10.00. Contact: Julie Potter, Avon Independent Sales Representative. Call: 727-810-1352 or e-mail me at [email protected] or visit my website: www.youravon.com/Jpotter

Help offered IN HOME HELP, CLEANING,SENIOR CARE,CHILD CARE.25YRS EXP. CALL DEBBIE. 727-236-3497 Helping Hands 4 u. Errands, Shopping,etc. - 727-512-4844 NAR-ANON FAMILY GROUPSnaranonfl.org - 727-463-0820NAR-ANON -Are you effected by by someone’s addiction? Do you keep trying to make things better and nothing helps? We are a world wide fellowship that offers help by sharing our experience, strength, and hope. Join us Saturdays @ 10:00 A.M. 207 Buckingham Ave. East – Oldsmar (United Methodist Church) For additional meetings: naranonfl.org or call 1-888-947-8885Alzheimer’s Family Organization Are you a Primary Caregiver for someone with Alzheimer’s Disease or other Dementia? You are not alone. Support Groups, Respite, Education, Wanderer’s Bracelet or Pendant and additional tools for your support. 727-848-8888.Recovery International Abraham Low Self-Help system, a weekly support group for people suffering from anxiety, panic attacks and symptoms caused by fear and anger. Tuesdays, 1pm, Lake View Community Church, 475 East Lake Rd N., TS. 727-942-4095. Free, offerings appreciated.Fixing your antique furniture,will 30+ years experience help? - 727-807-7252

PEtS & PEt CAREFlorida Poodle Rescue, Pinellas www.FloridaPoodleRescue.org. Rescued Animals in need of good homes. Suncoast Animal League, 1030 Pennsylvania Ave., Palm Harbor. 727-786-1330 www.suncoastanimaleague.org Doodle Rescues: all kinds, ages and size poodle mixes waiting for new homes. www.DoodleRescue.orgCats for adoption fully vetted/equp’d. e -ma i [email protected]/ca l l 7842608. - 727-784-2608 Pet Care www.rover.com/sit/lisaslovingpetcare. Call me for $ 20 off coupon code - 302-293-1227Pet Sitting and Odd Jobs Wanted. Super low cost. Aberdeen community only. - 727-223-9598 Home 863-259-0381 Cell

SERviCE PROSACME WINDOW CLEANING 727-457-8848 In business since 1984, family owned & operated Fully insured, professional and detailed cleaning including tracks sills etc. Prompt “neat and tidy” service at very reasonable prices

GERRYS POOL SERVICE 727-514-9369 weekly pool maintenance,leak detection, green pool cleanups, online invoicing, equipment checkup, serving your area since 1992. free estimates. [email protected]

NICK’S PRESSURE CLEANING From Roof to Driveway and everything in between including Paver Cleaning & Re-sealing. We will beat any reasonable written estimate Guaranteed!!! 727-376-7031/727-919-1591www.nickspowerwash.com

BROKEN GARAGE DOOR? Broken Springs • Rollers • Cables etc. Same day service on all Doors & Openers. Honest, Reliable, 37 year Local Resident. FREE Service Call with Repair. 727-504-4948, 7 Days a Week.

HANDYMAN SERVICES Ridgemoor resident with 30 years experience in interior home painting, home repairs, maintenance and upgrades. Any residential job requiring clean and quality work with savings. (No Appliance repair) Please call Kevin at (727) 787-4991

GREAT PANES WINDOW CLEANING - Professional window cleaner with 18 years experience. FREE NO PRESSURE Estimate. My promise: “You owe me nothing until you are 100% satisfied!” Licensed and Insured. Call Tom at 727-777-6030 www.greatpanesfl.com

SUPER DAVE’S PRESSURE CleAnInG Give your home a facial, get the works! Works includes driveway, sidewalk, facia, soffit, pool area, walls. Call Dave today! We show up on time! 727-433-1670. Licensed/Insured.

SAFE ExTERIOR CLEANING Soft wash roof cleaning house wash pool cages decks lanais driveways gutters community walls and sidewalks full coverage workers comp will beat any reasonable price commercial and residential 727-873-1185 Bosley’s Roof Cleaning & Power Washing LLC Office: (727)873-1185 Cell: (727)804-1917 Fax: (727)834-8745 www.bosleyscleaning.com

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Butler Plumbing ServicesLet The Butler Do It!

Water Heaters • Toilets & FaucetsElectric Sewer & Drain Cleaning

Small Job Specialist

Christian Owned & OperatedTom Butler 727-236-2452 Psalm 90:17Jeff Butler 727-236-2257 License # RF11061417

third-party apps using your Facebook account. Maintaining a login system is hard, and by using your Facebook account, you don’t need to trust your login to every app you sign into. They never get to see your Facebook password. As an added bonus, using Facebook Login means you don’t need to create and remember lots of new passwords.

You can also control what information you share with these apps by clicking “Edit the Info You Provide.” And best of all, you choose whether to let the app post on your behalf.

To sign into an app with Facebook, simply click on the Facebook button on the app’s sign-in page.

Improve your Facebook security todayIn addition to the steps above, you can also visit the Facebook Safety

Center, which provides additional tools to help control your experience on Facebook, as well as numerous tips and resources for safe and secure sharing. It also gives you access to the Bullying Prevention Hub, a resource for teens, parents and educators seeking guidance on how to prevent and address bullying on the Internet.

Your home comes with locks on the doors. Your car comes with an alarm. Your cell phone comes with a passcode. Yet every day you take additional steps to protect these possessions and the valuable information they hold. Why not do the same for your Facebook account? With just a few simple clicks, you can give your account a tune-up and more safely connect and share on Facebook with the people you care about.

3 siMpLe WAys to iMproVe yoUr fAceBook secUrity

(BPT) Your Facebook profile is a representation of you on the Web. It’s where you connect with friends, learn the latest news and find the best reviews of the restaurants and products you enjoy every day. You use your Facebook profile all the time, so you want to make sure the information you display on Facebook remains as safe and secure as possible.

Facebook works 24/7 to protect people’s accounts, but there are also simple things you can do to take more control of your security. Here are three easy options:1. Take a security checkup.

Security Checkup is the quickest and easiest way to add extra layers of protection to your Facebook account. With three simple steps you can:•Control where you’re logged in. This makes it easy to log out of

devices you haven’t used in a while or may have forgotten about, meaning you’ll only be logged into Facebook on devices and browsers you approve.

•Turn on Login Alerts. When this feature is activated, you’ll receive a notification or email alert whenever someone tries to log into your account from a new device or browser.

•Review your password security. Only use strong and unique passwords. You should never use your Facebook password anywhere else online and never share it with anyone.You can start your Security Checkup any time by searching for

“security checkup” in the Facebook Help Center, or by typing facebook.com/securitycheckup into your browser.2. Turn on login approvals.

If you’re only going to make one change to improve the security of your account, this is it. Otherwise known as two-factor authentication (2FA), login approvals provide an extra security step whenever you log in from a new device. You will get a special code on your phone that you use along with your password to complete the login process.

To turn on login approvals, all you have to do is go to “Settings” in the Facebook app on your phone or in your browser. Once you’ve done this, select “Security Settings” and check the box next to “Login Approvals.” If you don’t have login approvals turned on already, you should do it as soon as possible.3. Use your Facebook login with third-party apps.

Your Facebook login allows you to quickly and safely log into many


SAV

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February 24, 2017$100 registration before 2/13/17

$115 registration after 2/13/17

Golf • Dinner • Contribution

11:00 am: Registration1:00 pm: Shotgun Start

Separate flights for Men • Women • Mixed

727-215-9862for details or register online

www.elwdriveforacure.com

benefiting

East Lake WoodlandsAroUnd tHe neigHBorHood by Diane Mongiello, Communications Committee

Meet Stella and Daisy. Stella, a Beagle/Chihuahua mix who just celebrated her 2nd birthday in July, is already dressed for Christmas and out playing with her ‘sister’, Daisy, a Beagle/Jack Russell mix also dressed for Christmas, who will celebrate her 2nd birthday in December. Both Stella and Daisy are rescue dogs; Stella from a Florida puppy mill and Daisy from the Sun Coast Animal League. (Daisy was actually being fostered by Stella’s mommy and they grew so close that mommy didn’t want to separate them). These adorable young ladies make their forever home in the East Lake Woodlands community of Condo V. If you see them out walking with their forever mommy, please stop and say ‘hello’. They love to kiss anyone who will give them a little attention….or a treat if you happen to have one available!

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Documents

report on tHe A Brief History of eAst LAke drAinAge ...elw.homestead.com/HERON/Heron_December_2016_Proof.pdf · • Contractor mobilizes around the first week in January 2017 •