BEACON VOLUME 9 | ISSUE 6 | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
WWW.BELLALAGOHOA.COM
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 | BELLALAGO BEACON
1
D E PA R T M E N T : CO M M U N I T Y M A N AG E R
Voting & Holiday Prep BY YESENIA VÉLEZ, LCAM COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION MANAGER
How, When and Where Do I Vote? The next federal election will be Tuesday, November 3, 2020. It will include voting for President and Vice President, 1/3 of the Senate, and all of the House of Representatives. State and local elections will also be on the ballot in many areas.
Find Your Polling Place Your polling place is where you go to vote on Election Day. Find out where yours is located, its hours, and if you can change your polling place. Please note: Many voters with disabilities rely on in-person voting at accessible polling places. Voters with language barriers often depend on the help of interpreters at the polls. Changes to polling places are possible due to the coronavirus. 2
BELLALAGO BEACON | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
These may include different locations, layouts, procedures, and availability of translators. If you need to vote in person, check your polling place close to Election Day. Find out about early voting options and check with local election officials to learn: • If your needs will be met at your polling station • Other ways you may be able to vote
Operation Christmas Child The Evergreen Team is getting in the holiday spirit early this year by sponsoring Christmas gifts for children in poverty. Our goal is to fill over 1,000 shoeboxes for children ages 2-14 years old that otherwise would not experience the joy of gifts during the Holiday Season. With your help, we were able to collect 1,124 boxes. We need to start early because the boxes need to be shipped. Several
D E PA R T M E N T : CO M M U N I T Y M A N AG E R
items, war-related toys, food or chocolate, seeds, fruit or fruit rolls, snacks, drink mixes, liquids or lotions, medications or vitamins, breakable items such as snow globes, and aerosol cans. 6. If desired, include a donation to cover the cost of shipping. 7. Drop-off your shoebox in the Lifestyles Amenity Centers in Bellalago or IOB by November 22, 2020. On behalf of the Evergreen Team, we thank you for any support you can give. With your help, we will show how wonderful Bellalago and Isles of Bellalago is by providing a small heartfelt Christmas gift which will bring a smile and love to over 1,000 children.
Preparing for the Holidays Preparing for the holidays can be a lot of fun, and it can help you get things done in advance so you can enjoy the holidays more. Holidays are usually the most beautiful days of the year, no matter which holiday we are talking about. People don’t go to work, in most cases, they gather together with their families and have some quality time together, whether going somewhere or staying at home, inviting friends and relatives. Everyone is relaxed and spends time on something that can’t be done those numerous working days during the year.
of these supplies can be purchased at local dollar stores. Feel free to pick up one box or several. Read on for how to participate in Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child:
Garland, ribbons and candles come to mind when thinking about prepping your home for the holidays. This article is not about what will look best on your front door or how to set your table perfectly
1. Pick up a shoebox from the clubhouse. 2. Select a boy or girl and an age range on the “How to Pack a Shoebox” informational packet included with your box. 3. Fill the box. Additional gift suggestions can be found at www.samaritanspurse.org/operation-christmas-child/whatgoes-in-my-shoebox-suggestions. 4. Include a “WOW” item such as a stuffed animal, doll, small musical instrument, small game, etc. • Age specific personal care or general hygiene products • Age specific school supplies • Clothing and accessories • Crafts and activities • A personal note 5. Do NOT include: Candy, toothpaste, used or damaged
Continued on Page 4
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 | BELLALAGO BEACON
3
PHONE NUMBERS Evergreen Customer Service
877-221-6919
BEL L A L AG O Amenity Center
407-933-3010
Security Main Gate
407-846-3014
IS L ES OF BEL L A LAG O Amenity Center
407-343-9175
Security Main Gate
407-846-1873
HOA ADM I N N U M B E R S
Community Association Manager Yesenia Vélez
877-221-6919 YVelez@ Evergreen-LM.com
Facilities Club Manager Doug Dingee
877-221-6919 DDingee@ Evergreen-LM.com
Lifestyles Director Amy Mallinder
877-221-6919 AMallinder@ Evergreen-LM.com
Fitness Director Giselle Rodriguez
407-943-4068 GRodriguez@ Evergreen-LM.com
Compliance Manager Jose Chaparro
877-221-6919 JChaparro@ Evergreen-LM.com
Membership
407-343-9175 BellalagoLeases@ Evergreen-LM.com
HOA Account Issues & Irrigation Work Orders Customer Care
877-221-6919 CustomerService@ Evergreen-LM.com
H O U R S O F O P E R AT I O N BEL L AL AGO & IS LE S O F BELLAL AGO AM EN IT Y C E NT E R S
Monday - Friday
6am - 9pm
Saturday & Sunday
8am - 8pm
Yesenia’s Article Continued from Page 3
for the holidays. That’s what Pinterest is for! Working for a homeowner’s association has made me aware of the importance of prevention. Unfortunately, in our line of business we see and hear about disasters and mishaps over the holidays that cost damage, money and stress. So as an ode to the season of giving, I’m going to give you four tips of what NOT to do when prepping your home for the holidays.
In Preparing Your Home for the Holidays DO NOT: 1. Do NOT combine dry garland and candles. This is a cry for disaster. I’ve actually witnessed a mantle go up in flames at a holiday party because of this combination. The beautiful candles gave off a crackling glow of light all evening and the garland surrounding it was a lovely sight, until all the party guests were throwing their drinks toward the fire that was slowly rising up the tall wall. Trust me; it’s a good idea to stick with the new flameless candles. 2. Do NOT overload electrical outlets. Stick with no more than three strands of lights and be sure to use approved and lab-tested. Although it can be hard to get rid of those “vintage” bulbs you’ve cherished since you were a child, don’t use any wiring that’s cracked, bare, rusted or is worn and torn. Splurge for some new bulbs. 3. Do NOT leave your cooking unattended. Chances are if you’re having people over, you might be using your kitchen more than normal. Don’t forget to keep towels, papers, pot holders and other items that could catch fire, away from the stove. Be sure to keep an eye on what you’re cooking, and if you have little ones in your house, make sure you supervise them as well. 4. Do NOT ignore your smoke alarms. Check the batteries and test each smoke alarm to make sure they’re working. Smoke alarms save lives and can provide for an excellent turkey timer, as they have in my household. Enjoy making your house beautiful for the holidays and don’t ignore the importance of prevention and awareness. Happy Holidays!
P OOL H OU R S * YESENIA VÉLEZ Monday - Friday Saturday & Sunday
Usually Dawn - Dusk 8am - Dusk
*Subject to change. Check boards at each pool. 4
BELLALAGO BEACON | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
877-221-6919 YVelez@Evergreen-LM.com
D E PA R T M E N T : S A F E T Y & S E C U R I T Y
Hello Bellalago Residents! BY TODD W. ROGERS, PRESIDENT & CEO, VITAL SECURITY AND INVESTIGATIONS
V
ital is currently celebrating its 20th year in business and we couldn’t be more excited to be working with your community. Our company was founded on a principle of bringing World Class Customer Service to everything we do. With that in mind, we understand that no matter how prepared we are, or what our intentions are, the unexpected happens.
We’re planning a meeting that will be held via Zoom for the time being with respect to COVID-19 protocols. We invite anyone who has questions regarding the security of the community to attend so we can discuss and answer your questions. Communication is key and we understand how important safety is to all of you.
I would like to take this opportunity to let everyone know we are committed to working with the residents to address any concerns that arise in a methodical manner. Currently, we have a process in place to address concerns as they arise. That begins with your dedicated Director of Safety and Security, Madalyn Colon. She can be reached at MadalynC@VitalSecurity.com.
We are excited to announce that we have just added a Registered Nurse to our team in Orlando. She has over a decade of experience in some of the largest healthcare facilities in Florida and will be focused on our Officer’s Continuing Education. Our commitment to our team is never-ending and by adding our own medical expert, we will continue to make our officers the best in the business.
Madalyn personally investigates each concern and completes an Incident Report of the event. Once the investigation is completed, follow up and an action plan is put in place with the impacted people involved. We strive for excellence in this process and do our very best to ensure everyone involved is contacted and their concerns are appropriately and professionally resolved.
TODD W. ROGERS 844-835-5591 www.VitalSecurity.com
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 | BELLALAGO BEACON
5
D E PA R T M E N T : CO M P L I A N C E
Fishing in Bellalago
BY JOSE CHAPARRO, LCAM, CMCA COMPLIANCE MANAGER
B
ellalago is known as a fishing community with a direct connection into Lake Toho making it an ideal location for boaters and fishers alike. Lake Toho, adjacent to the city of Kissimmee in Central Florida, is 18,810 acres and has long boasted a reputation among both recreational and tournament anglers of producing excellent fishing and trophy largemouth bass. Bellalago has a Fishing Club that consists of Bellalago residents that love to fish and compete by occasionally having tournaments and events in the community open to residents.
For any ARC (Architectural Review Committee) questions, you can reach out to Oscar at OGonzalez@Evergreen-LM.com. He is our ARC Coordinator and is also part of our Compliance Team. For lease applications or leasing questions, you can contact BellalagoLeases@Evergreen-LM.com.
The lakes within Bellalago are catch and release, therefore fish must be put back in the lakes. The interior lakes are no wake zones and boaters are required to travel at idling speeds. As a reminder, Bellalago is a wildlife community; each owner and his or her guests and invitees are responsible for their own safety and the safety of their pets, as per section 3.8.4 of the community documents.
For security related questions, gate issues, or lights out around the community, you can contact the Security Shift Supervisor at 407-989-2417. For emergency situations you should always call law enforcement first. Security is not equipped, nor authorized, to conduct or get involved in police related issues.
E-blasts
For any irrigation related questions or issues, please contact Floralawn by going to Floralawn.com (register) and create a work order, or by calling them at 863-668-0494.
If you have not done so already, please register at BellalagoHOA. com to receive the community E-blasts (emails). The E-blasts have an array of information from Lifestyles Events, Club and HOA related information, to emergency information, so please register and be informed.
Contact Information For any violation related questions and/or complaints, please contact the Compliance Team at BellalagoCompliance@ 6
Evergreen-LM.com. Multiple team members work/help with compliance issues and have access to this email, ensuring a timely response to any questions and/or requests from residents.
BELLALAGO BEACON | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
JOSE CHAPARRO 877-221-6919 JChaparro@Evergreen-LM.com
D E PA R T M E N T : L I F E S T Y L E S
National Dog Day & National Teddy Bear Day PHOTOS BY BELLALAGO RESIDENTS
Bellalago Gives Back 2020 has been a powerful reminder that we are all in this together, and our choices and actions have the power to protect the most vulnerable among us in a big way. The same holds true when it comes to breast cancer. With your support, we can show every woman that her life is important. By working together, we can inspire hope and become a force for good to get her access to the care she needs. Bellalago donated $500 to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Consider donating with us by visiting www. NationalBreastCancer.org and clicking on the “Donate� button at the top right of the page.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 | BELLALAGO BEACON
7
D E PA R T M E N T : F O O D & B E V E R AG E
It’s the Most Wonderful Time of Year! BY JONATHAN GARCIA FOOD & BEVERAGE DIRECTOR, FLIP FLOPS BAR & GRILLE
S
ince we’re entering the Holiday Season, the Flip Flops staff and I thought we would take this opportunity to express what this time of year means to each of us. We hope you enjoy and look forward to seeing you again soon at your neighborhood Flip Flops Bar & Grille.
“Although I do miss the snow from New York, this being my second holiday season in Florida, I definitely enjoy the sun and warm weather. My favorite part is making my world-famous Coquito, sharing it with my family, and enjoying the time together.” -- Sabrina Rogers, Server
“Thanksgiving is definitely my most favorite holiday of the year. It is a time to be grateful and appreciative. The best part is sitting down with my family and friends, with a big spread of food to enjoy together.” -- Luke Velez, Server
“The holidays are typically spent up north, something about the change in season make it all the more special. It’s the alleviating moment when you come home from a long day, your cold, flushed red cheeks being greeted by the warmth inside. There’s no better feeling.” -- Nia Velez, Server
“I enjoy both Thanksgiving and Christmas equally, but I would have to give the notch to Thanksgiving. That is the time when I get to be with most of my family at the same time. We love to reminisce with old family videos, and dust off the board games.” -- Hamilton Pena, Kitchen Staff “Food is the common bond that binds my family together. It is hard at times to get our whole family together, but when we do it’s always special. Sitting around the table, catching up, and sharing our lives is the best feeling at any holiday we can all spend together.” -- Andrew Pena, Server “My family loves to bake around Thanksgiving and Christmas. Fudge, cookies, pies, and more fudge is a staple in my house at any given time. This is the time of year when you can eat anything and not feel bad about it.” -- Hunter Raab, Kitchen Staff 8
BELLALAGO BEACON | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
As for me, this holiday season will be extra special this year. We have all been through so much in these trying times. I am so thankful to have my wife and children, family and friends in my life, safe and healthy. I plan to take the extra time to truly enjoy each moment, even more than any time before. Life is Better in Flip Flops!!!
JONATHAN GARCIA 321-682-7119 JGarcia@Evergreen-LM.com
D E PA R T M E N T : F I T N E S S & W E L L N E S S
Fitness Class Schedule
Current Class Schedules are Posted in the Amenity Centers and on the BellalagoHOA.com Calendar
BARRE IGNITE
LIIT
Tuesday • 11:15am • Bellalago Combines attributes of pilates, dance and functional fitness training, which incorporate small isolated movement to fatigue the muscles. Large range of motion to elevate the heart rate and sequencing that incorporates upper and lower body to make every minute count!
Friday • 11:15am • Bellalago Low intensity interval training is the new must-try fitness trend it’s low impact so is great for all fitness levels. It is made up of a mix of low-impact exercise intervals and generous rest intervals.
BODY SCULPTING
Wednesday • 6pm • Isles of Bellalago Non-aerobic, muscle-toning class designed to define, sculpt and build lean muscle.
KICKBOXING
Wednesday • 11:15am • Bellalago Friday • 10am • Isles of Bellalago High-energy workout combining martial art techniques to help build stamina, improve coordination and flexibility. SEATED YOGA
Tuesday • 6pm • Isles of Bellalago This class combines different styles of dance including Zumba, Line Dancing, Rock and Roll, and more!
Wednesday • 12pm • Isles of Bellalago Allows participants with limited mobility to use chair for seated postures or standing postures to help increase mobility, range of motion and reduce stress.
CHAIR FITNESS
TOTAL TONING
Thursday • 11:15am • Bellalago A seated exercise workout for people with limited mobility, seniors and anyone else who needs to sit and exercise to get fit.
Thursday • 10am • Isles of Bellalago A full body workout that combines body sculpting exercises and strength training, designed to tone and strengthen all areas of body.
CORE & MORE
YIN YANG YOGA
Monday • 6pm • Isles of Bellalago Designed to strengthen the abdominals, back, and core, in order to prevent injury, increasing balance, and creating a strong powerhouse.
Thursday • 6pm • Isles of Bellalago Join instructor Tanya at Isles of Bellalago for an invigorating 30 minute Power Flow followed by 25 minutes of Gentle Yoga to unwind and release tension. All yoga levels are welcome!
FLEXI BAR
YOGA
Tuesday • 10am • Isles of Bellalago A unique class format that targets strengthening muscle tissues in a simple manner. The vibration created by the swinging motion of the Flexi Bar creates a physical response deep inside the body.
Wednesday • 10am • Isles of Bellalago Saturday, December 5th • 8:15am • Bellalago A class that has a gentle way to improve your posture, balance, and coordination in which includes mediation and relaxation.
FLOW YOGA
ZUMBA®
CAN YOU FEEL THE BEAT DANCE CLASS
Friday • 9am • Isles of Bellalago Focuses on form and alignment of the body. Designed to help improve strength, flexibility, balance and bring peace to both the body and mind. This class is great for beginner to intermediate levels.
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Saturday • 9am Isles of Bellalago Fitness class incorporating Latin and International music and dance, while offering a balanced blend of cardio and muscle toning benefits.
HATHA YOGA
Monday at 10am • Thursday at 9am • Isles of Bellalago Focuses on form and alignment of the body. This class is designed to help improve strength, flexibility, balance and bring peace to both the body and mind. This class is great for beginner to intermediate levels (levels 1 and 2).
ZUMBA® TONING
Monday • 11:15am • Bellalago The challenge of adding resistance by using Zumba® Toning Sticks (or light weights), helps you focus on specific muscle groups, so you (and your muscles) stay engaged!
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 | BELLALAGO BEACON
9
D E PA R T M E N T : CO M P L I A N C E
Safety First! BY OSCAR GONZALEZ, ARC COORDINATOR / HOA COMPLIANCE OFFICER
S
afety is everyone’s responsibility. Bellalago residents and guests are urged to obey speed limits posted in the community. The speed limit throughout Bellalago is 25 mph. On occasion, we do have the Sheriff’s Department monitor and enforce speed limits throughout the property. Many Bellalago residents, including children, enjoy walking, riding bicycles or playing outside. Please slow down, not just over the speed humps, but through the entire community. During or after heavy rain, it is especially important to do so. Although we remind walkers to wear something light and reflective when walking in the dark (early in the mornings or in the evenings), and teach our children not to play in the road, occasionally poor choices are made. Obeying the speed limits can save lives – isn’t it worth a few extra seconds? We thank conscientious drivers for helping keep the roadways safe in the Bellalago community.
10
BELLALAGO BEACON | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
Driveways & Sidewalks Now that the rainy season is over, please take the time to inspect your driveway and sidewalks. The rainy season usually causes most sidewalks in Bellalago to build up black dirt and mold. This can be hazardous to walkers (as they can potentially slip and fall) and a liability to homeowners. It is every homeowner’s responsibility to maintain the driveways and sidewalks. The Compliance Team will be focusing on these residential areas of concern and sending out the proper notices to residents. In addition, maintenance is working on cleaning up the common areas that need attention to keep Bellalago beautiful!
OSCAR GONZALEZ 407-750-3074 OGonzalez@Evergreen-LM.com
D E PA R T M E N T : M E M B E R S H I P
Leasing
BY THE MEMBERSHIP DEPARTMENT
Leasing Reminders Hello Bellalago residents! Below are just a few reminders we would like to touch on: • Please continue to use the BellalagoLeases@Evergreen-LM. com email for anything pertaining to membership. • Lease applications can be dropped off at any of the Amenity Centers. • We often have tenants say they are not aware that they have to renew their lease. This information should be shared by the property managers and/or homeowners. • Before turning in your applications, please go through the cover sheet that is given to ensure you have everything needed for submittal.
DIY Autumn Floral Arrangement Now for some fun! Here’s a Dollar Tree® DIY fall décor craft to try out at home that can be placed on the Thanksgiving table!
2. Finish filling the vase with 2 bags of river rock pebbles. 3. Cut a 12”-piece of burlap ribbon and wrap it tightly around the center of the vase. Secure the ribbon to the vase with tape so it does not shift. 4. Cut a second 12”-piece of burlap ribbon; this will be used to create the bow. 5. Mark the center of the ribbon (6”) and fold each end towards the center point mark. 6. Pinch the ribbons ends and center point together. 7. Wrap a piece of tape around the pinched ribbon to create the bow and secure it. 8. To cover the tape in the center, cut a 1” piece of burlap ribbon and wrap it around the center of the bow. Secure the ribbon with a small piece of tape, ensuring the tape is not visible behind the ribbon. 9. Using a paper clip, secure the bow to the original 12”-piece of ribbon attached to the vase.
What You’ll Need: » 1 Spool of Burlap Ribbon » 3 Fall Floral Stems » 2 Bags of River Rock Pebbles » 1 Cylinder Glass Vase » Clear Tape » Paper Clip Easy Step-by-Step Directions: 1. Arrange floral stems together and then place the finished bouquet in a vase. Tip: Since the stems are connected, try weaving the tops as much as possible to make the bouquet look more natural.
Wishing you all a happy and healthy Holiday Season!
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 | BELLALAGO BEACON
11
12
BELLALAGO BEACON | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 | BELLALAGO BEACON
13
14
BELLALAGO BEACON | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020 | BELLALAGO BEACON
15
1200 Lago Vista Court Kissimmee, Florida 34746 877-221-6919 www.BellalagoHOA.com