2016 09 lake hammock village newsletter

Gator Tales September 2016

“The Park with A Heart”

Editor: Joice Smith

Lake Hammock Village 36106 US Hwy 27 Haines City FL 33844 863-421-5764

Board of Directors Clark Smith President (2017) (863) 438-6929

Joyce Middleton

Vice President (2017) (863) 353-5477

Maria Combs Secretary (2016) (863) 438-6643

Joyce Wright Director (2017) (224) 545-4846

Richard Gould Treasurer (2016) (863) 422-5902

Jim Fischer Director (2016) (239) 248-2597

Jan Baczkiewicz Director (2016) (989) 889-9498

Committee Chairs Gator Tales Joice Smith 863-438-6929 Phone Squad Florence Browning (863)547-8516 Sunshine Carol Gould (863)422-5902 Welcome Maria Combs (863)438-6643 Marilyn Smith (863)421-1018 Memorials Judy Page (863) 438-4598

“Gator Tales” is available online at: http://floridacommunities. com/lake-hammock-newsletter.

Message from the President......

Dear Friends and Neighbors, I know it’s hard to believe, but summer is rapidly drawing to a close and soon our Northern friends will be returning to their summer homes here at Lake Hammock Village. It will begin a busy time of year for the HOA and our residents. November and December, especially, are very busy months as a lot of activities are held during this time of year, many of them requiring a lot of help in order to make them successful.

It is also the time of year when we start thinking about our Lake Hammock Village Volunteer-of-the-Year, that individual who exemplifies the concept of volunteer and goes out of their way to insure the success of our many community activities. I will be addressing this program and the selection procedure in next month’s Gator Tales.

Many of you have noticed the letters “BOD-BOD-BOD-BOD” scattered throughout the Gator Tales over the last couple of months and have questioned what they meant. This has been my subtle attempt at creating a subliminal message for our residents. The letters BOD stand for Board of Directors, and yes, it is getting towards the time we need to solicit new members. Being a Director is not as scary as it would lead you to believe. I won't get in to all the details in this writing, but I would be happy to discuss at any time with anyone who would like to consider volunteering their service. Currently, we have 7 members on the board and of that 7, 4 have their terms expiring this year, so please consider volunteering.

Enjoy the rest of your summer.

Clark

Make & Take Crafts Thursday, September 1st 2:00 pm Sandy Blackman 353-9804 At the clubhouse. THERE IS A $2.00 SUPPLY FEE HOA BOARD MEETING Tuesday September 6th 7:00pm Clark Smith 863-438-6929 The monthly Board of Directors meeting will be held in the Clubhouse.

Dining by the Book Thursday, September 8th Carpool 4:30 pm Marilyn Smith 421-1018 All Star Grill, Lake Wales (Deadline to sign up to attend is three days before the event).

HOA Meeting Tuesday, September 13th 7:00pm Clark Smith 863-438-6929 The monthly HOA meeting will be in the clubhouse.

Please take the time to attend the meeting to hear what is happening in YOUR park.

Activities Meeting Tuesday, September 20th 2:00pm If you have ideas of activities, places to eat around town or other things that you would like to see LHV do, then please join us in the clubhouse as we plan our October activities. We enjoy having new ideas to explore.

Ladies’ Lunch Wednesday, September 21st Clubhouse 10:30am Dona Rawson 547-9326 Twisted Tea Pot, Winter Haven – Lunch @ 11:00am (Deadline to sign up to attend is three days before the event).

Birthday/Anniversary Celebration Sunday, September 18th 6:30 p.m.

Dona Rawson 547-9326 & Joanne Marko 438-5011 Come celebrate September birthdays and anniversaries.

Hostess for this month is Joanne Marko and Spring Haven from Winter Haven.

Early Bird Dining Tuesday, September 27th Carpool 4:30 p.m.

Margaret Conley (3537640) Carrabba’s Italian Grill 910 3rd St. Winter Haven.

(Deadline to sign up to attend is three days before the date of the event).

Potluck Friday, September 23rd 5:30 pm LHV Clubhouse.

Hosted: Eileen Lemay Bring a Dish for 8 to share.

Hi Neighbors,

GET WELL Deb Kemp – Hospital -Home Eileen Wilbrink - Nursing Home Bob Torpey – Home Rita Clapp – Hospital - Home If you know anyone who is sick or in the hospital, please contact Carol Gould (422-5902) know so she can get a card to them. If you would like to be put on the prayer chain, contact Lori Johnsen at (5881599).

C&D Bus Trips

September 28th – Brighton Casino $25.00pp September 17th - Corpse (Play) Mt. Dora - $63.00 pp October 5th – All Hands on Deck Winter Park Theater $80.00pp October 22nd – Mt. Dora Craft Fair $31.00pp th October 26 – Brighton Casino $25.00pp Signup sheets are in the Clubhouse

We recently hosted July’s pot luck. It was our first time and we had a Mexican Theme. The HOA supports this event by funding what you may need for gift cards, beverages, etc. Everyone brings a dish to share. The food was delicious and it was fun exchanging recipes.

We have been residents for a year now. Maybe next time we will be able to meet some of the newer residents at the next pot luck in August.

It is so much fun.

Thank you so much to all those who helped make it happen.

We really enjoy living at LHV. One of the main reasons is because of the wonderful people who have truly become “extended” family.

Thanks again, Pat and Randy Bergstrom 72 Sargent Street

Pat and Randy Bergstrom Host of the July Pot Luck

The July Potluck was attended by about 30 people.

Hosts were Randy and Pat Bergstrom. The theme was Mexican. We had a great variety of foods and had time to visit with friends. Pat and Randy were excellent hosts.

Our Phone Squad Florence Browning 863-547-8516 If you can’t reach Florence, call: Marileigh Osborn 863-421-6289

Other Phone Squad Helpers: Joann Marko, Carol Gould, Mary Schnopp, Sally Phillips, Marilyn Smith, Marion Spiegel, Deb Bialecki, Stephanie Strom, Dona Rawson and Margaret Conley Activities Chairs

Pictures and article submitted by Sharon Bowden.

COMING SOON LAKE HAMMOCK RESIDENT PET PAGE. STAY TURNED FOR MORE INFORMATION

Memorials & Phone Squad Memorial Committee Judy Page at 863-438-4598 If you can’t reach Judy call: Other Committee Members: Dona Rawson 863-547-9326 Deb Bialecki 863-422-8296

These volunteers will not be hosting all the events, but they will be the ones finding hosts for the events and planning the dates. If you have any suggestions or need more information on these activities, please contact the following: Activities: Maria Combs 438-6643 / Joanne Marko 438-5011 Birthdays/Anniversaries: Joanne Marko 438-5011 Breakfast Out: Marge Love (815)978-7427 Bus Trips: Joanne Marko 438-5011 Early Bird Dinner: Margaret Conley 353-7640 Dining by the Book: Marilyn Smith 421-1018 Entertainment: Ladies’ Lunches: Dona Rawson 547-9326 Park Breakfast: Maria Combs 438-6643 / Karen Wilson 353-2275 Potlucks: Eileen Lemay 353-1108 Newsletter Information All newsletters can be viewed in color on the web site at www.floridacommunities.com (click on Lake Hammock at bottom of page). Just a reminder, any information needs to be submitted to me by the 20th of every month. If you have any questions or suggestions about the Gator Tales, please contact Joice Smith by email or phone. We are always looking for ways to improve.

Gator Tales Staff Joice Smith (Editor) 121 Silver crest 863-438-6929 joicesmith89@gmail.com Judy Page Stephanie Strom Andy & Nancy Belski Richard & Marion Spiegel

September Anniversaries 3rd 3rd 5th 9th 10th 13th 14th 15th 21st 26th

Dutch & Becky Poppink Lloyd & Betty Larry – 62 yrs.

Richard & Marian Spiegel – 52 yrs.

Bill & Karen Patelunas – 39 yrs.

Gary & Anna Smith – 7 yrs.

George & Pat Robertson Steve & Linda Pierce – Dean & Reta Cramer – 60 yrs.

Randy & Pat Bergstrom – 48 yrs.

Russ & Joan Lander – 63 yrs.

(If we have missed your anniversary, please let us know!)

September Birthdays 3rd 4th 8th 8th 10th 12th 12th 13th 15th 16th 16th 17th 19th 19th 21st 21st 22nd 24th 24th 24th 25th 25th 26th 27th 27th 29th

Chuck Koening Dean Cramer Bob Matteson Brian Lund James Huber Tim MacCartney Shirley Hinds Lyndie Herring Merrill Davis Judy Dixon Linda Pierce Kenneth Koenitzer Linda Bialy Vita DeStefano June Evans Dick Welch Andy Belski Ellen Davis Eileen Lemay Pat Robertson Margaret Hendges Karen Patelunas Walter Paulovske Barbara Stauffer Eileen Wilbrink Pauline Wells

(If we have missed your birthday, please let us know!)

Jerry & Terri Cruz Photo by Sharon Bowden Jerry and Terri Cruz moved to #19 Silver Crest Dr in April of 2016 from Winter Haven. Previously, Jerry had lived in Michigan and Terri had lived in Rhode Island.

Jerry served in the United States Army from 1961 – 1964. Following his discharge, he took a job with the Ford Motor Company from which he retired after 31 years. Terri had been employed at an airport and worked at a Dunkin' Donuts for a time.

Jerry and Terri met on line in a Walt Disney chat room and communicated with each other for 3 years before finally meeting at Disney in Florida. Jerry says that it took him 22 years to find Terri, they've been married for 13 years and the two of them are still on their honeymoon.

In 1995, Jerry retired and moved to Florida where he took a job with Disney as a Security Guard, retiring for good after 20 years. Terri, meanwhile, continues to work full time at Disney Springs.

Jerry and Terri have 2 daughters and 2 grandchildren, all from Jerry's previous marriage. In addition, they have a cat although the cat is not real friendly with strangers.

When you see Jerry and Terri out and about, please stop and introduce yourself and welcome them home.

Article by: Marian Spiegel

Bill & Donna Larmon Photo by Sharon Bowden Bill and Donna Larmon purchased their home at 148 Glen Este Blvd on November 3, 2015. They fell in love with Lake Hammock Village, the lake, the wooded area and all of the friendly people. After staying here for a short time, they returned to their home in Indiana, sold their house, and came back to LHV where they are now full time residents.

During his working career, Bill worked for the City of Chicago where he retired from the Street Maintenance Department. Bill is also a veteran of the Viet Nam War (welcome home). Donna retired from working in the retail industry where she enjoyed customer service and working with people.

Bill and Donna have been married for 42 years and in November of 1977, they were blessed with a beautiful baby boy, their only child. Sadly, God had bigger and better plans for him and in January of 2013, took him home, a victim of a tragic automobile accident. Their son's life cut short, they were given no grandchildren.

Bill and Donna decided to start a new life in Florida and they sure did, in a healthy way. They enjoy golf, exercising, swimming and riding their bicycles. They also enjoy jigsaw puzzles which they frame and hang on their walls when completed.

If you see Bill and Donna out and about, please stop and welcome them home to our Lake Hammock Village Community.

Article by: Marian Spiegel

Note from Stephanie Strom

September 2016 Haines City Farmers Market: Every Wednesday at Railroad Park 8:00-12:00 Kissimmee Saturday Nite Cruise Old Town – Every Saturday Live 50's and 60's music at 7:00 PM Lakeridge Winery Saturday, September 10 – Corks for Cancer – 10:00 – 5:00 Sunday, September 11 – Corks for Cancer – 11:00 – 5:00 Features continuous live music $2.00 donation for Leesburg Regional Hospital Cancer Winter Haven Saturday, September 10 – 2nd Saturday Market – 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Saturday, September 24 – 4th Saturday Market – 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Lakeland September 3 – First Friday Lakeland – 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Downtown – Free September 24 – The Purple Xperience, a tribute to Prince – 8:00 PM Polk Theater

1. A big thank you to all who helped with the Ladies Tea. It was wonderful.

2. If you or a group to which you belong is having a holiday event, and you would like to invite the Lake Hammock community, please send me the following information by September 16th … name and description of event, place, time, and cost. This may include, but is not limited to … performances, craft fairs and special events held by a small group or church.

3. A holiday calendar will be part of the November and December issues of Gator Tales. Send info to mom2rj@tampabay.rr.com

SECURITY ALERT Recently, some of our residents have received phone calls regarding savings accounts, checking accounts, other financial accounts, and the Internal Revenue Service. The caller generally requests personal information such as account numbers, birth dates, social security numbers and other identifying numbers. NEVER, EVER, GIVE ANY OF THIS INFORMATION TO ANYONE OVER THE PHONE, ESPECIALLY YOUR SOCIAL SECUIRTY NUMBER. In case you are not aware of it, Florida is the number one state in the country for Identity Theft and Senior Fraud.

PROTECT YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION AT ALL TIMES!!!

Sudoku 3 1 4 4 8 6 1 8 9 3 4 8 2 9 1 7 6 5 8 5 7 1 3 5 2 4 2 8

Lake Hammock Village

Ladies English Tea

On the 17th of August ladies from LHV donned their finery and hats to attend the English Cream Tea held in the clubhouse. The atmosphere was brilliant. It appeared everyone enjoyed the experience. I thank all the ladies who so enthusiastically participated in the event. I also especially thank everyone who loaned the use of lovely tablecloths, tea cups and saucers, plates cake tiers, and tea pots. Without these items, the party would not have been so elegant.

Marileigh Osborn made English Butter Tarts, that were delicious, to share with everyone; thank you Marileigh. I also thank the many ladies who helped with the clean-up. Your efforts were so greatly appreciated. My special thanks goes to Donna Rawson, Joyce Wright, Elaine Rockwell, and Maria Combs who worked valiantly to help make this English Cream Tea happen. Many thanks to everyone who was involved.

Judy Page

Ladies Afternoon Tea Lake Hammock Village

Lake Hammock Village Ladies Afternoon Tea

Hosted By: Meik and Birgit Bartoschek

Come join your friends and neighbors for Saturday Morning Breakfast September 3, 2016 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM Cost: $3.00 Please sign up in clubhouse so we make sure we have enough food for everyone.

Menu: Sausage and Eggs, Hash Browns, Biscuits and Gravy, Juice and Coffee.

Featuring: Belgian waffles from a German girl...

Grandparents Day What does Grandparents Day celebrate?

Grandparents’ Day is a day to honor your grandparents as well as the contribution made to society from all seniors.

When is Grandparents’ Day celebrated?

of 1978, President Jimmy Carter signed the resolution making the first Sunday after Labor Day officially Grandparents Day. Fun Facts About Grandparents’ Day 

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It is celebrated on the first Sunday after Labor Day in September.

Who celebrates this day?

This day is celebrated in the United States.

There are similar days in other countries. In some countries they have separate Grandmothers’ and Grandfathers’ Days.

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What do people do to celebrate?

The main thing people do is something special for their grandparents. This includes sending a card, visiting, and taking them out for a meal.

History of Grandparents’ Day There were a number of people who worked hard to see that Grandparent's Day was established as an official holiday in the United States. One lady often cited as the primary founder of Grandparent's Day is Marian McQuade of West Virginia. Marion wanted to see a day that honored the senior citizens of the United States and the important contribution they make to our society.

When the idea of Grandparents’ Day was first brought to the Senate in 1973, it was turned down. However, Marion continued to work in gaining support. Finally, in August



The official song of this day is A Song for Grandma and Grandpa by Johnny Prill.

The official flower is the forget-menot as a reminder that we shouldn't forget our grandparents and how important they are to us.

If you don't have a grandparent that lives near you, one thing that the founders of this day encourage is to visit nursing homes and adopt a grandparent that you can visit and get to know.

Each year the grandparent(s) of the year is awarded by the Grandparents’ Day Council.

In Canada this day is celebrated on the second Sunday of September. In the United Kingdom it is celebrated on the first Sunday of October.

Let the world always remember, That fateful day in September, And the ones who answered duty's call, Should be remembered by us all.

Who left the comfort of their home, To face perils as yet unknown, An embodiment of goodness on a day, When men's hearts had gone astray.

Sons and daughters like me and you, Who never questioned what they had to do, Who by example, were a source of hope, And strength to others who could not cope.

Heroes that would not turn their back, With determination that would not crack, Who bound together in their ranks, And asking not a word of thanks.

Men who bravely gave their lives, Whose orphaned kids and widowed wives, Can proudly look back on their dad, Who gave this country all they had.

Actions taken without regret, Heroisms we shall never forget, The ones who paid the ultimate price, Let's never forget their sacrifice.

And never forget the ones no longer here, Who fought for the freedoms we all hold dear, And may their memory never wane, Lest their sacrifices be in vain.

Alan W. Jankowski

Come join us for our monthly “Potluck Dinner�

When: Friday, September 23rd Time: 5:30 PM Where: Lake Hammock Village Clubhouse Hosted by: Eileen Lemay Please bring your favorite dish (enough for 8) to share with your friends and neighbors!

Bring your own plate and silverware.

Polk County Flight to Honor along with Cornerstone Hospice, would like to announce our first Virtual Flight to Honor on October 8th, 2016.

The American Legion Post 8 will be our host to honor all of our World War II Veterans, and Korean War Veterans with a life limiting illness that are unable to make the day trip to Washington, DC to visit the monuments in their honor.

Virtual Flight to Honor Special Mission 1 will commence at 10:00 AM at The American Legion Post 8, located at 300 Avenue M NW, Winter Haven, Fl. 33881.

PROGRAM SUMMARY: The flightless program consists of 4 elements: 1. A short introductory meeting where Vets meet their Guardians and some basic information about the program is provided.

2. An informal brunch where Vets, Guardians and their significant others get together and socialize.

3. The “flightless event� is a 5 hr. activity.

4. The flightless Vets and Guardians will be invited to the Spring or Fall mission reunion.

Please contact Marilyn Smith (61 Sargent St., 421-1018) for an application form needed to attend.

Tucked behind the Sunoco gas station at US 92 and Main Street in Auburndale, in a very small strip shopping center is a family diner, a favorite of the locals, known as the Auburndale Main Street Diner.

On this particular afternoon, at approximately 1:00, we stopped in for lunch and the place was packed. The menu consists of many reasonably priced items and the restaurant features an abundant number of “Daily Specials�. All food is cooked and prepared fresh daily (no frozen or canned vegetables here) and served by a friendly and numerous staff.

I opted for one of the specials, Spaghetti and Meatballs, which came with bread and two sides for $7.99.

Imagine that, Spaghetti and Meatballs with two sides...whoever heard of spaghetti with two sides. The entree was good, though bland, but the sides of onion rings and potato salad were excellent, all made fresh. Joice had fried chicken livers (a true southern dish) with green beans and potato salad. All in all, if you are looking for a reasonably priced restaurant (almost cheap) that serves good, fresh home cooked meals, I would highly suggest the Auburndale Main Street Diner.

They are located at 415 Main Street, Auburndale and are open from 6:00 am to 2:30 pm, Monday through Saturday.

Exploring Florida Wildlife....

One of our Lake Hammock Village residents is not human, but rather a furry little weasel-like character known as Lutra anadensis, or more commonly the River Otter. Otters are semiaquatic, with a long muscular tail, short legs, small rounded ears and nostrils that close when they are underwater. Males are generally larger than females and weigh between 15 and 31 lbs.

Otters hunt in pairs or alone during either day or night, feeding on fish, crayfish, and turtles. They must eat up to 15% of their body weight per day in order to survive. They live in and around creeks, rivers, lakes and ponds, spending their resting time in burrows dug into the side of banks by other animals.

Otters communicate via a loud bird-like chirping. They have a variety of chirping calls so that they cannot be classified with one call.

Mating season in Florida is fall and winter with gestation lasting 11-12 months. Their young are born fully furred and travel and feed with their mother until they are approximately 1-year-old. Otters are found everywhere in Florida except for the Keys.

It is not uncommon to see them while walking along creeks or the banks of rivers and lakes.

For more information:www.myfwc.com www.wildflorida.com Photo: Courtesy of Karen Patelunas Article: Clark Smith

While not common in the U.S., if you’ve ever been to an English pub, you’ve probably heard of Bubble and Squeak.

Traditionally made from the leftovers of a Sunday roast dinner, this traditional British dish is a combination of mashed potatoes and chopped veggies such as cabbage, broccoli and Brussel sprouts that are mixed together and pan fried in a little oil. If you’re wondering (as we were) about how the recipe got its name, just listen to the sound

the veggies make when you toss them into a hot skillet – little bubbles and squeaks!

Dating back hundreds of years, this hearty yet frugal recipe is a great way to use up any leftover veggies you have in the fridge; we typically make this after we’ve stretched out our groceries as long as we possibly can, then we do a fridge clean-out and throw everything we can into this dish. It’s easy to customize and you wouldn’t believe how yummy it is!

Bubble and Squeak 30 minutes to prepare, Serves 4 Ingredients         

1/2 onion, diced 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cups mashed potatoes 1/2 cup cooked broccoli florets 4 pieces’ bacon, optional 1/2 cup cooked cabbage, shredded 1 tablespoon butter kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Preparation 1. Heat vegetable oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté for 5 minutes, or until onions are translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.

2. Add bacon, if using, and cook until crisp. Drain fat, then add broccoli, Brussel sprouts and cabbage to the onion mixture. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Brown vegetables for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

4. Add mashed potatoes to the skillet, pressing down to flatten to form a patty. Brown about 6-7 minutes.

5. Carefully flip the potato and vegetable patty. Cook an additional 6-7 minutes, or until well-browned with a crispy crust. (If needed, invert potato onto a plate and slide back into skillet.)

6. Transfer onto a platter. Cut into wedges for serving.

Recipe adapted from BBC Good Food – Article submitted by Judy Page

Mushroom Asiago Chicken Recipe Submitted by: Hacy & Joyce Wright Hacy & Joyce enjoy cooking and trying new recipes. They try one weekly. This one can be frozen and used at a later date.

INGREDIENTS 1lb boneless skinless chicken breast ½ c. all-purpose flour 4 Tbsp. Unsalted butter 1 lb. sliced mushrooms ½ tsp salt 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 ¼ cup chicken broth ¾ tsp dried thyme leaves ½ cup heavy cream ½ cup shredded Asiago cheese Parmesan cheese for sprinkling DIRECTIONS: 1. Cut each chicken breast into thirds by first cutting each breast in half crosswise, then set the thinner half aside. Slice the thicker part of the breast in half horizontally (parallel to the cutting board) to produce 2 more thin cutlets. Lightly season each cutlet on both sides with salt and pepper and dredge in flour, shaking off excess.

2. Place a large skillet over medium-heat and melt about 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter.

Add as many cutlets as will fit comfortable into the skillet, but be sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sauté for about 5 minutes until golden brown on the first side, then flip and cook for 1

additional minute. Remove the chicken from the skillet to a plate and cover lightly with foil. Repeat with remaining chicken cutlets.

3. When all of the chicken is cooked and set aside, add remaining butter to the skillet along with the mushrooms and ½ tsp. salt. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are golden brown and become softened. Add garlic and cook an additional 2 minutes.

4. Pour ½ cup chicken broth into the skillet and stir to scrape up anything that is sticking to the bottom of pan. Once the broth has nearly all evaporated, add ¾ cup chicken broth and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce heat to medium and cook for 10-15 min. at a rapid simmer until the liquid is reduced by half.

5. Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in heavy cream. Nestle the chicken back into the skillet and allow it to simmer in the sauce, just until the chicken is heated through and the sauce has slightly thickened. Sprinkle with a bit of Parmesan cheese and serve right away, either all by itself, or spooned over pasta or mashed potatoes. ENJOY

What’s the birthstone for September?

September’s birthstone, the sapphire, was said to represent the purity of the soul.

The sapphire, birthstone for September, is a relative of July’s birthstone, ruby. Like the ruby, it is a form of the mineral corundum, a normally drab grey mineral. Red corundum is called the ruby, while all other gem quality forms of corundum are called sapphires.

Typically, sapphires appear as blue stones, ranging from very pale blue to deep indigo, due to the presence of small amounts of titanium and iron within the crystal structure. The most valued shade of blue is the medium-deep cornflower blue. Sapphires also occur in other natural colors and tints – colorless, gray, yellow, pale pink, orange, green, violet and brown – called fancy sapphires. These different colors are caused by different kinds of impurities within the crystal. For example, yellow sapphires get their color from ferric iron, and colorless gems have no contaminants.

The Logan Sapphire Brooch, the second largest sapphire known (at 422.99 carats), is on display at the National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C. Image Credit: Andrew Bossi The biggest source of sapphires world-wide is Australia, especially New South Wales and Queensland. Found in alluvial deposits of weathered basalt, Australian sapphires typically are blue stones with a dark and inky appearance.

Kashmir, in India, used to be a well-known source of the cornflower-blue stones. In the United States, a major source is the Yogo Gulch Mine in Montana that mostly yields small stones for industrial use.

The word sapphire has its roots in several ancient languages: the Arabic safir, the Latin

sapphirus (meaning blue), and the Greek word sappheiros for the island of Sappherine in the Arabian Sea where sapphires were found in ancient Grecian times. Ancient Persians called sapphire the “Celestial Stone.” It was the gem of Apollo, Greek God of prophesy and was worn by worshipers visiting his shrine in Delphi to seek his help. It was used by ancient Etruscans as far back as the 7th century B.C. The sapphire was said to represent the purity of the soul. Before and during the Middle Ages, it was worn by priests as protection from impure thoughts and temptations of the flesh. Medieval kings of Europe valued these stones for rings and brooches, believing that it protected them from harm and envy. Warriors presented their young wives with sapphire necklaces so they would remain faithful. It was believed that the stone’s color would darken if worn by an adulterer or adulteress, or by an unworthy person.

Sapphires were once believed to be protection against snakes. It was said that if poisonous reptiles and spiders were placed in a jar containing the stone, the creatures would immediately die. The French of the 13th century believed that sapphire transformed stupidity to wisdom, and irritability to good temper.

One of the most famous sapphires rests on the Imperial State Crown, worn by Queen Victoria in 1838. It resides in the British Crown Jewels in the Tower of London. This gem is called the St. Edward’s Sapphire because it once belonged to Edward the Confessor, who wore the stone on a ring during his coronation in 1042.

A LETTER FROM A POLISH MOTHER TO HER SON BY: WALTER PAULOVSKE

Your Uncle Stan locked his keys in his brand new Buick yesterday.

worried because it was a hot day and it took him two hours to get Aunt Anna and the kids out.

Dear Joe, I am writing this letter slow because I know you can’t read fast.

We don’t live where we did when you left home. Your Dad read in the paper that most accidents happen within 20 miles from home so we moved. I won’t be able to send you the address, as the last Polish family that lived here took the house numbers when they left so that they wouldn’t have to change their address.

This place is real nice. It even has a washing machine. I’m not sure it works well. Last week I put a load of clothes in, pulled the chain and haven’t seen them since.

The weather isn’t too bad. It only rained twice last week. The first time it rained for three days and the second time it rained for four days.

Your sister had a baby this morning. I haven’t found out what it was yet so I don’t know if you are an aunt or an uncle.

Your Uncle John fell in a whiskey vat and some men tried to pull him out but he fought them off and drowned. We had him cremated and he burned for three days.

Three of your friends went off a bridge in a pick-up truck. One was driving and the other two were riding in the back. The driver got out, he rolled the window down and swam to safety.

The other two drowned because they couldn’t get the tail gate down.

There isn’t much more news at this time. Nothing much has happened.

Love,

The coat you wanted me to send to you your aunt said would be a little too heavy to send in the mail with the buttons, so we cut them and put them in the pockets. We got another bill from the funeral home, they said if we don’t make the last payment Grandpa’s funeral, up he comes.

We

on

Mom PS. I was going to send you money, but the envelope was sealed.

TRAVEL IS SWEET AND ACCESSIBLE! Traveling with the whole family, despite accessibility issues, is easier than ever! In addition to assisting travelers with mobility restrictions, travel providers have placed a renewed emphasis on vision, hearing and cognitive challenges in travel to ensure that facilities, activities and attractions can be utilized and enjoyed by everyone. Many tourist attractions and travel providers, on both land and sea, are servicing this market by investing in facilities and accessibility upgrade. Here are a few of the ways that hospitality and travel destinations are servicing this growing sector of travelers:          

Wider ship stateroom/hotel room doors Braille and large-print reading material Roll-in showers Hearing aids and audio recordings Wheelchair seating in theaters Staff training for autistic passengers Wheelchair, scooter and other mobility rentals Lifts for the pool and spa Personal guides And more!

The goal for all is to make travel accessible, comfortable and worry-free for the entire group. If you are considering a trip and need extra assistance to travel more comfortably, be proactive and let your travel advisor know of your needs; you may be surprised at the new and ever-expanding options available to make each passenger’s trip safe, accessible and enjoyable. After all, it’s your vacation and everyone deserves to have a great time! *Published on the Summer/Fall Travel Planner Magazine from Cruise Planners.

For more information, please contact your Certified Accessible Travel Advocate and Master Cruise Counselor, Ruthelise Anderson with Cruise Planners. 863.644.1014 / 863.660.6434, reanderson@cruiseplanners.com, 5015 South Florida Ave. Suite 404, Lakeland, FL 33813. www.ExclusiveCruisePlanners.com

Chiropractic Care for Children & Adults Activator Methods Proficiency Rated Doctors Participating Providers with Medicare and Other Insurances www.heartoffloridachiropractic.com Carys Felton, D.C. Douglas C. Gagnon, Jr., D.C. 350 S. 10th Street Haines City, FL 33844 863-422-4575

SUNCREST SALES CORPORATION At Lake Hammock Village 36106 U.S. Highway 27 Haines City, Florida (863) 421-5764 or (866) 741-1239 www.lakehammock.com Email: phil@lakehammock.com

Lake Hammock Village Residents – Bring us a buying customer on any resale and receive $100.00. Receive $400 if they purchase a new home or build a new home.

Office Hours

Monday thru Friday * 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Saturday * 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Sunday by Appointment Closed Holidays

Sales Staff

Phil Nespeca * Cell (863) 307-9686

DR. HEWETT

I

DR. RUSSO

CHAMPIONS GATE • 407.787.3892

8390 CHAMPIONS GATE BLVD., STE. 314 C H A M P I O N S G AT E , F L 3 3 8 9 6

INSURANCE ACCEPTED

Aetna • Cigna • Delta Dental MetLife • Guardian PPO plans only

DR. WILLIAMS

WINTER HAVEN • 863.293.1807 1 5 5 2 ND S T R E E T S W WINT E R H AV E N, F L 3 3 8 8 0

ALL InCLUSIVE LOCATIONS

INSURANCE ACCEPTED

Aetna • Cigna Delta Dental PPO plans only

ONLY

390

$

I

PER YEAR

ICD MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM UNLIMITED EXAMS

ANTI-ANXIETY SEDATION

UNLIMITED DIGITAL X-RAYS

RESERVED PRIORITY APPOINTMENTS

TEETH CLEANING- 2 PER YEAR

APPROVED FINANCING

FLUORIDE TREATMENT-2 PER YEAR

TREATMENT FEE REDUCTION- 25%

TEETH WHITENING TREATMENT

(Excluding Invisalign & Sleep Apnea)

(At-Home Whitening)

Advanced Dentistry. Experience Matters.

www.hewettdds.com

@ExclusiveCrPl

ExclusiveCruisePlanners

LHV Residents Corner Shelly’s Cleaning Service 58 Sargent St Cell Phone: 910-624-8925 Email: Shelly.Shaffer81@yahoo.com

I take pride in my work. Your home is like my home. When we meet we will review and write down everything you want cleaned. One-time jobs and other errands performed as needed.

Give me a call – or stop by my house.

A Place for our Residents’ Services

If you need fresh basil, oregano, or rosemary call the Wright’s at 224-545-4846.

Household Handy Man Bruce Lemay 863-353-1108 33 Silver Crest Dr. General maintenance and home repair. No job to small, call or stop by for estimate.

Handy Man at your Service Jerry Sibila Cell Phone: 910-876-7221 No job too small!! Give me a call and we can discuss what you need done. OR stop by my house and see what we’ve done inside.

58 Sargent Street Floors – Plumbing – Ceiling Fans – Painting – Landscaping – Household Repairs – ETC.

Driver Ron Smith 187 Glen Este Blvd.

407-319-6698 Now you can GO!! any place, any time I will drive you. I will use my car or your car.

I am a safe driver and reliable.

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday 1

5

9:30 AM

7:00PM BOD Mtg.

2

Saturday 3 8:30 10:30am Park Breakfast

Men's Breakfast 10:00 AM Shuffleboard 2:00 pm Craft Day 7:00 Dominoes

9:30 AM Water Aerobics 1:00 PM Pokeno 7:00 PM CLR Game

9 9:30 AM Water Aerobics 1:00 PM Pokeno 7:00 PM CLR Game

10

Coffee 9:30 AM Water Aerobics 7:00 PM Bingo

8 8:00 AM Men's Breakfast 10:00 AM Shuffleboard 4:30 pm Dining by the book 7:00 Dominoes

14 8:15 AM Coffee

15 8:00 AM Men's Breakfast

16 9:30 AM Water Aerobics

17Ladies’ 8:15 AM Poker Breakfast Out R-eatery

9:30 AM Water Aerobics

10:00 AM Shuffleboard

1:00 PM Pokeno

7:00 PM Bingo

7:00 PM Dominoes

7:00 PM CLR Game

7 8:15 AM

6

Water Aerobics 10:00 AM Shuffleboard 1:00 PM Hand & Foot 1:00 PM Scrabble

8:00 AM

Friday

6:30 PM Ladies’ Poker

6:30 Ladies Poker

Labor Day 6:30 PM 11 Remember

9/11 Patriot’s Day Happy Grandparent’s Day 18

6:30 PM Birthdays Anniversaries Celebration

25

12 9:30 AM Water Aerobics 10:00 AM Shuffleboard 1:00 PM Hand & Foot 1:00 PM Scrabble

13 8:00-12:00 Pool closed for maint.

7:00PM HOA General Mtg.

19 9:30 AM Water Aerobics 10:00 AM Shuffleboard 1:00 PM Hand & Foot 1:00 PM Scrabble

20

26 9:30

27

Water Aerobics 10:00 AM Shuffleboard 1:00 PM Hand & Foot 1:00 PM Scrabble

2:00Pm Activities Mtg.

21 8:15 AM Coffee 9:30 AM Water Aerobics 10:30 am Ladies Lunch 7:00 PM Bingo

28

4:30pm Early Bird Dining

8:15 AM Coffee 9:30 AM Water Aerobics 7:00 PM Bingo

22 8:00 AM Men's Breakfast

10:00 AM Shuffleboard 2:00 PM Billiards 7:00 PM Dominoes

29 8:00 AM Men's Breakfast 10:00 AM Shuffleboard 2:00 PM Billiards 7:00 PM

23 9:30 AM Water Aerobics 1:00 PM Pokeno 5:30pm Pot Luck

6:30 PM Ladies’ Poker

24

6:30 PM Ladies’ Poker

7:00 PM CLR Game 30 9:30 AM Water Aerobics 1:00 PM Pokeno 7:00 PM CLR Game

Dominoes

Thursday September 8th – Dining by the Book – All Star Grill, Lake Wales. Meet at the clubhouse at 4:30 (Deadline to sign up is three days before the date of the event).

Wednesday September 21st Ladies Lunch – Twisted Tea Pot, Winter Haven. Meet at the clubhouse at 10:30 – Lunch is 11:00am (Deadline to sign up is three days before the date of event) Tuesday, September 27th -Early Bird Carrabba’s Italian Grill, 910 3rd St. Winter Haven. Meet at clubhouse at 4:30. (Deadline to sign up is three days before the date of the event).