FirstService Residential (HOA) Flip Flops Bar & Grille
AMENITY CENTERS
Bellalago Amenity Center
Isles of Bellalago Amenity Center
SECURITY
Authorize a Guest (DwellingLive.com)
800-337-5850 866-378-1099 407-201-6423
407-933-3010 407-343-9175
Security Roving Officer 407-906-7998 689-323-5408
CLUB ADMIN CONTACTS
Club General Manager
R. Paul Girard, LCAM
Club Maintenance Manager
Ivonne Martinez
Lifestyle Director
Michelle Thomas
Club Accounting/Admin
Jennica Collier
Lifestyle Coordinator
Mariaeiling Rivera
HOA ADMIN
FirstService Residential Office Hours
Monday - Friday
Community Manager
Desera Ramos
Assistant
Community Manager
Paul.Girard@ CastleGroup.com
Ivonne.Martinez@ CastleGroup.com
Michelle.Thomas@ CastleGroup.com
Jennica.Collier@ CastleGroup.com
Mariaeiling.Rivera@ CastleGroup.com
Unsupervised Minors on Club Grounds
We have a matter of immediate concern regarding the safety, security, and peaceful enjoyment of our community. Recently, there has been a significant escalation in improper and unsafe behavior by minors on the Amenity Grounds, including the clubhouses, fitness facilities, and surrounding recreational areas.
To ensure the safety of all residents and guests, and to protect community property, we are strictly enforcing the following community policies effective immediately:
» Mandatory Supervision: Minors must be supervised by a parent or responsible adult at all times while on club and amenity property. Unaccompanied minors will be asked to leave the premises. Refusal will result in a trespass order from the Sheriff’s Department.
*Subject to change. Check boards at each pool. Usually Dawn - Dusk 8am - Dusk
BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER*
Monday - Friday
*Or as scheduled for sanctioned clubs or special events 8:30am - 5pm
FLIP FLOPS BAR & GRILLE*
Monday & Tuesday
Wednesday & Thursday
Friday & Saturday
Sunday
*Subject to change.
12pm - 8pm 12pm - 9pm 12pm - 8pm
» Prohibited Vehicles: At no time are minors permitted to operate golf carts or e-bikes on club grounds. For safety and liability reasons, these vehicles are strictly prohibited from being operated by underage individuals within our amenities. Adults operating golf carts must strictly adhere to the community speed limit as well as directional signage and stop signs. E-bikes and scooters are not permitted at any time, regardless of operator’s age.
» No Loitering: Clubhouses, the restaurant, sport courts and general club grounds are designated for active use by members and guests. Loitering, congregating in common areas without utilizing the facilities, or causing disruption to dining and recreational operations is not permitted.
» PLEASE NOTE: The community maintains a zero-tolerance policy for property damage, verbal abuse of staff or residents, and reckless behavior. Moving forward, all instances of inappropriate or illegal behavior will be referred immediately to the County Sheriff’s Department, and amenity privileges for the associated household will be suspended.
We take great pride in providing a safe, family-friendly environment for everyone in our community. We ask that you please speak with your children regarding these expectations and help us maintain the high standards of our neighborhood. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter and for your cooperation in keeping our community safe.
A Season of Connection, Celebration & Community
Written by MICHELLE THOMAS, LIFESTYLE DIRECTOR
Aswe move into the heart of summer and begin looking ahead to fall, I am reminded of what makes Bellalago and Isles of Bellalago such a special place to call home. It is not just our beautiful amenities, stunning lake views, or exciting events; it is the people who make up this community.
Over the past several months, we have watched neighbors become friends, children create lasting memories, and families come together to celebrate life’s special moments. Whether it was dancing at an event, shopping at the Farmers Market, enjoying a fitness class, or simply sharing a conversation by the pool, these moments are what transform a neighborhood into a community.
The months of July, August, and September bring opportunities to continue building those connections. From summer celebrations and family activities to social gatherings and wellness programs, our goal is to provide experiences that bring residents together and create memories that last long after the event ends.
Life often moves quickly. Between work, school, sports, appointments, and everyday responsibilities, it can be difficult to slow down and truly connect with those around us. Community events give us the chance to do just that. They encourage us to meet new neighbors, support local businesses and vendors, celebrate milestones, and enjoy the simple joy of spending time together.
As your Lifestyle Director, I want to thank each resident who attends an event, volunteers their time, shares ideas, or simply stops by to say hello. Your participation and enthusiasm are what make our programs successful and help create the welcoming atmosphere that Bellalago is known for.
As we enjoy the remainder of summer and prepare for the changing season ahead, I encourage everyone to take advantage of the opportunities around you. Attend an event you’ve never tried before, introduce yourself to a new neighbor, try a new fitness class, or spend an evening making memories with your family.
At the end of the day, communities are not built by buildings or amenities, they are built by people. Thank you for helping make Bellalago and Isles of Bellalago a place where neighbors become friends, families create memories, and everyone feels at home. I look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events and continuing to make this an incredible place to live.
MICHELLE THOMAS CASTLE GROUP
407-933-3010
Michelle.Thomas@CastleGroup.com
Recent Events
Bellalago in Motion: Transforming our Amenities for YOU
Written by IVONNE MARTINEZ, CLUB MAINTENANCE MANAGER
We are excited to share several recent improvements across our community that continue to enhance both the appearance and functionality of our amenities.
POOL AREA IMPROVEMENTS
The fence surrounding the pool perimeter has been freshly painted, giving the entire area a clean, refreshed look. This upgrade not only improves the overall aesthetics, but also helps protect the structure for long-term durability. The result is a brighter, more inviting pool environment for all residents to enjoy.
BASKETBALL COURT UPGRADES
At the basketball court, the installation of new backboards has been completed. These improvements provide a better playing experience and contribute to safer, more reliable equipment for both casual and competitive play.
BELLALAGO GYM RENOVATION
The Bellalago gym has undergone a small but impactful remodeling project. A new floor has been installed, giving the space a modern and polished feel while improving durability and comfort for workouts. These updates enhance the overall experience for residents using the facility.
BOARDWALK RESTORATION COMPLETED
We are also pleased to announce the completion of the installation of new boards along the boardwalk. This project improves both safety and appearance, ensuring a secure and enjoyable walking experience while preserving one of our community’s most scenic features.
A MESSAGE FROM YOUR MAINTENANCE MANAGER
At Bellalago, our goal is always to maintain safe, functional, and welcoming spaces for everyone in the community. These improvements reflect the ongoing dedication of our maintenance team and our commitment to enhancing the amenities our residents enjoy every day.
We truly appreciate your continued support and feedback, as it helps guide our efforts and priorities. It is our pleasure to serve this community, and we look forward to continuing to make positive improvements throughout Bellalago.
IVONNE MARTINEZ CASTLE GROUP
407-852-8286
Ivonne.Martinez@CastleGroup.com
Club Meetings
For more details, visit www.TownSQ.io or email Michelle Thomas, Lifestyle Director, at Michelle.Thomas@CastleGroup.com. All clubs will be required to sign in using a Bellalago ID. If you are interested in starting a club or interest group, email Michelle for an application.
LADIES BOOK CLUB
2ND MONDAY » 7PM-8PM
BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER
Join the Book Club on the second Monday of every month.
BUNCO CLUB
3RD FRIDAY » 6PM-8PM
BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER
Join the Bunco Club on the third Friday of every month.
CARROM CLUB
SUNDAYS » 3PM-5PM
BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER
Join the Carrom Club every Sunday.
CHESS CLUB
WEDNESDAYS » 5:30PM-8PM
BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER
Join Bellalago’s new Chess Club who meets every Wednesday.
CIGAR CLUB
3RD SUNDAY » 4:30PM- 6:30PM
FLIP FLOPS BAR & GRILLE PATIO
The Cigar Club meets the third Sunday of every month.
DOMINOES CLUB
EVERY TUESDAY EXCEPT LAST TUESDAY & THURSDAYS » 6PM-
8PM » BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER
LAST TUESDAY » 6PM-8PM » MP ROOM
Join the Dominoes Club every Tuesday & Thursday.
FISHING CLUB
2ND WEDNESDAY » 6PM-8PM » FISHING CLUB HOUSE
Join the Fishing Club on the 2nd Tuesday of the month.
LADIES CARD CLUB
EVERY THURSDAY » 1PM » BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER
Join the Card Club Thursdays in the Bellalago Recreation Center.
Join Mahjong & Cards in the Bellalago Recreation Center.
MEN’S GAME NIGHT
1ST WEDNESDAY » 6PM-8PM
FLIP FLOPS BAR & GRILLE
Test your skills and try your luck amongst your fellow residents! Soft drinks will be provided.
ORIENTAL MUSIC CLUB
EVERY FIRST, SECOND & LAST SUNDAY » 6PM
BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER
Join the Oriental Music Club for Oriental Line Dancing on Thursdays and club meeting on the last Thursday of the month.
PICKLEBALL CLUB
TUESDAYS, THURSDAYS & SUNDAYS » 5PM-8PM
SUNDAYS » 2PM-5PM
BELLALAGO COURTS
Each person attending will be required to sign in with Bellalago ID.
PING PONG CLUB
EVERY MONDAY » 2PM-4PM
BELLALAGO AMENITY CENTER MULTIPURPOSE ROOM
Join the Ping Pong Club every Monday.
SPANISH CONVERSATION CLUB
EVERY TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY » 10AM » BELLALAGO
CONFERENCE RM & MULTIPURPOSE ROOM ON 2ND TUESDAY
Join the Spanish Conversational Club every Tuesday & Wednesday.
TENNIS CLUB
SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS » 8AM-11AM
WEDNESDAYS » 5 PM-8PM » BELLALAGO COURTS
Each person attending will be required to sign in with Bellalago ID.
Please bring your own equipment.
July-September 2026 Events
All events are held at the Bellalago Recreation Center unless otherwise specific and require an RSVP or paid ticket before the day of the event, unless otherwise specified. To purchase tickets or RSVP for an event, please visit the TownSQ app, www.TownSQ.io or email Michelle Thomas, Lifestyle Director, at Michelle.Thomas@CastleGroup.com. Events, ticket prices, cancellations, and details are all subject to change at any moment.
Monthly Events
Free entry for all monthly events!
BINGO
2ND FRIDAY OF THE MONTH » 6PM-9PM BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER Games, prizes, and fun!
LUNCH & LEARN
3RD WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH » 12PM-2PM BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER
Learn new subjects from the experts themselves while enjoying a complimentary lunch.
MUSIC BINGO
3RD WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH » 6PM-8PM FLIP FLOPS BAR & GRILLE Games, prizes, and musical fun!
TRIVIA
2ND THURSDAY OF THE MONTH » 6PM-8PM FLIP FLOPS BAR & GRILLE
Enjoy some brain-busting trivia with friends!
KARAOKE
4TH FRIDAY OF THE MONTH » 6PM-8PM FLIP FLOPS BAR & GRILLE
Come sing and enjoy a music-filled evening with friends!
LIVE MUSIC AT FLIP FLOPS
1ST FRIDAY OF THE MONTH » 6PM-9PM FLIP FLOPS BAR & GRILLE
Enjoy an evening of live music with neighbors!
Special Events
Pre-purchase tickets for special events through Townsq.io.
PATRIOTIC FOAM POOL PARTIES
SATURDAY, JULY 4 » 11AM-2PM (FAMILIES) & 6PM-9PM (ADULTS)
ISLES OF BELLALAGO POOL DECK » $5
Celebrate summer in Red, White and Blue at the Patriotic Foam Pool Party! Get ready to dive into a day of fun, foam, and festive spirit! This exciting event is the perfect way to keep the Independence Day energy going while cooling off with neighbors, family, and friends.
The day kicks off with a Family Foam Party from 11am-2pm, where kids and parents alike can enjoy playing with foam, music by a live DJ, and great entertainment. For those looking for an evening of adult-only fun, the Adults-Only Foam Party runs from 6pm-9pm!
This is a great opportunity to dance, mingle, and enjoy a summer night with Glow Foam! Tickets are just $5 per person and can be purchased through Townsq.io. Children aged 2 and under are free with a paid adult ticket.
Even if you’re not attending the foam parties, the Bellalago Amenity Pool will remain open at no charge until capacity is reached. Enjoy the festive atmosphere with a live DJ and face painting available from 11am-2pm. Whether you’re bringing the kids for daytime fun or meeting friends for a lively evening, this event promises something for everyone. Put on your most patriotic swimwear, grab your towel, and let’s make a splash!
PATRIOTIC KIDS PAINT DAY
SATURDAY, JULY 11 » 1PM-3PM » $5
BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER
Join us for a festive painting session just for kids! We’ll provide all the supplies; just bring your imagination. Enjoy mocktails and snacks while creating your own patriotic masterpiece! Space may be limited, so be sure to pre-purchase tickets on Townsq.io.
LADIES NIGHT
SATURDAY, JULY 18 » 6PM-9PM » $15
BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER
Grab your girlfriends and join us for a night of food, music, games, and nonstop fun at our Locked Down Ladies Night! Dress in your best orange, stripes, or jailhouse-inspired outfit and enjoy an evening designed just for the ladies. Must be 21+ to attend. Prepurchase tickets on Townsq.io.
BACK TO SCHOOL BASH
SATURDAY, AUGUST 1 » 11AM-2PM
BELLALAGO BOAT DOCK » FREE ENTRY
Kick off the new school year with a splash of fun at Bellalago Back to School Bash! Enjoy food trucks, games (a lot of water games), backpack and supplies giveaways, and a colorful powder bash starting at 1:30pm to say goodbye to the summer. Kids are encouraged to wear white and bring a change of clothes, so you don’t get any powder on the shuttle buses.
Continued on page 11.
Please note a few important guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. To receive school supplies, children must be present with the adult! All attendees must present a valid Bellalago ID for entry. Driver’s licenses will not be accepted. If you do not have a Bellalago ID, please visit the Amenity Center prior to the event to obtain one. Residents ages 16–17 may obtain a Bellalago Minor ID; however, they are not permitted to bring guests. All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times. Additionally, each household is limited to a maximum of four (4) guests. These guidelines will be strictly enforced.
SUMMER SIPS WINE PAIRING
SATURDAY, AUGUST 22 » 6PM-9PM
BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER » $15
Raise a glass and toast to the end of summer at our Summer Sips Wine Pairing event. This elegant evening brings together the best of both worlds as Time for Wine and Heavenly Tasties team up to offer residents a night of delicious food expertly paired with a selection of fine wines.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxing night out in great company, this will be a flavorful celebration to close out the season. Don’t miss this perfect summer send-off filled with community, cuisine, and conversation. Pre-purchase tickets on Townsq.io
FALL ADULT SIP & PAINT NIGHT
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 » 6PM-8PM
BELLALAGO RECREATION CENTER » $10
Join us for a cozy and creative evening at our Fall Sip & Paint. Celebrate the new season by painting a fall creation while enjoying complimentary wine and great company. It’s the perfect way to welcome fall with friends and neighbors! Pre-purchase tickets on Townsq.io
LABOR DAY LUAU POOL PARTIES
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 » 11AM-2PM » FREE ENTRY
BELLALAGO & ISLES OF BELLALAGO POOL DECKS
Join us for a splash-tastic celebration at our Labor Day Pool Parties at both the Bellalago and Isles of Bellalago Pool Decks. Say goodbye to summer with DJs, face painting, food trucks, and more! Bring the whole family and enjoy one last poolside party before the season ends.
CASINO NIGHT
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 » 6PM-8PM
ISLES OF BELLALAGO POOL DECK » $15
Feeling lucky? Join us for Casino Night! Enjoy a lively evening filled with casino games, appetizers, desserts, a live band, and exciting prizes. Tickets are $15 per person and can be purchased on Townsq. io. Don’t miss this fun night of games and glam under the stars!
Fitness Class Schedule
Schedule is subject to change due to weather and fitness instructors availability. Current Class Schedules are Posted in the Amenity Centers, on the TownSQ app and www.TownSq.io. Please see Community Email Blasts or Online Calendar for the most up-to-date Fitness Class Schedule.
AQUA FIT
TUESDAYS, WEDNESDAYS, THURSDAYS, FRIDAYS » 11:15AM ISLES OF BELLALAGO
Aqua Fit is a form of exercise done in shallow or deep water usually in a swimming pool that uses the resistance of the water to provide a full-body workout. It’s low-impact, joint-friendly, and great for people of many fitness levels.
AQUA ZUMBA
MONDAYS » 10AM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO
Aqua Zumba is a fun, low-impact water fitness class that combines dance and exercise to upbeat music. It helps improve cardio and tone muscles while being gentle on the joints.
CHAIR YOGA
MONDAY AT 11AM » TUESDAY AT 12PM » WEDNESDAY AT 12PM ISLES OF BELLALAGO
Offers benefits of yoga while seated focusing on guided meditation.
FIT KIDS
SATURDAY » 10AM & 11AM ISLES OF BELLALAGO
Join Instructor Nikki for a fun-filled Fit Kids class at 10am for ages 6-8, and 11am for ages 9-12. Parental supervision required.
GENTLE FLOW YOGA
SUNDAY » 11AM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO
A slow and relaxing yoga class where you move smoothly between easy poses while focusing on your breath. The movements are gentle, making it great for beginners or those who want a less intense workout.
HATHA YOGA
THURSDAY » 9AM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO
This class is designed to help improve strength, flexibility, balance and bring peace to both the body and mind.
KICKBOX CARDIO
FRIDAY » 10AM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO
This is a group fitness class that includes fast-paced cardio. This highenergy workout challenges the beginner and elite athlete alike to build stamina, improve coordination and flexibility.
KIDS FITNESS GAMES
SATURDAY » 12PM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO
Join Instructor Nikki for a fun-filled class for ages 8-12. Parental supervision required.
LEGS, GLUTES & ABS TONING
FRIDAY » 9:05AM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO
Use body weight to tone, sculpt and strengthen the core and lower body. Increase muscular endurance in a fun strength building format!
PILATES
WEDNESDAY » 6:30PM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO
Pilates concentrates on strengthening the body through posture, balance and flexibility with an emphasis on core strength.
SCULPT
WEDNESDAY » 8:10AM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO
Sculpt, also known as weight or resistance training, uses weights or resistance bands and your own body weight to stretch the muscles. The class involves performing a series of repetitive exercises using your body weight, resistance bands, barbells and dumbbells.
STEP FITNESS
MONDAY » 8:10AM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO
Step Fitness class is a type of aerobic workout that involves stepping up and down on an elevated platform, commonly known as a step bench or step aerobics platform. This class typically combines cardio exercises with choreographed movements to music, and the focus is on improving cardiovascular fitness, strength, and endurance.
STRENGTH TRAINING
THURSDAY » 6:30PM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO
This is a full-body workout focused on building muscle strength, endurance, and overall stability. It targets major muscle groups including arms, legs, core, back, and shoulders through controlled movements.
STRONG NATION
MONDAY » 6PM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO
STRONG NationTM is a High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) class that moves to the music designed with short, intense bursts of work followed by a short recovery period to help burn maximum calories in a minimal amount of time. STRONG Nation classes incorporate body weight strength building moves, plyometrics and cardio for a complete workout that is synced to the music.
SUSPENSION TRAINING & WEIGHTS
MONDAY » 5PM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO
This class is form of suspension training that uses body weight exercises to develop strength, balance, flexibility and core stability simultaneously.
TAI CHI
MONDAY & FRIDAY » 12PM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO
Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese art of healing, relaxation, and selfdefense. The practice has developed into a graceful exercise with soft smooth movements that is used today for stress reduction, energy enhancement, illness prevention, and strengthening the mind and body.
TOTAL TONING
TUESDAY & THURSDAY » 10AM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO
A full body workout that combines sculpting exercises and strength training, designed to tone and strengthen all areas of the body.
TRX KETTLEBELL FUSION CLASS
SATURDAY » 1PM » ISLES OF BELLALAGO
This is a fitness session built around exercises performed with a kettlebell, a cast-iron weight with a handle. These classes focus on full-body strength, conditioning, and functional movement.
YOGA
MONDAY & WEDNESDAY » 10AM » BELLALAGO
A gentle way to improve your posture, balance, and coordination, which includes mediation and relaxation. Yoga mat required.
ZUMBA®
WAKE UP : MONDAY - WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY AT 9AM
THURSDAY & FRIDAY AT 8AM » SUNDAYS AT 10AM ISLES OF BELLALAGO
This class incorporates Latin and international music and dance, while offering a balanced blend of cardio and muscle toning benefits.
Adopted by THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS ON APRIL 28, 2026
PURPOSE
This policy is intended to clarify the lawful operation of motorized vehicles within the community and to promote the safety of residents, pedestrians, and drivers.
GOVERNING AUTHORITY
This policy is adopted pursuant to:
• The Association’s Governing Documents
• Florida law governing vehicle operation, including Chapter 316 (Florida Uniform Traffic Control Law)
POLICY STATEMENT
SIDEWALK USE
Motorized vehicles, including gas-powered scooters, mopeds, and similar devices, are not permitted to be operated on sidewalks or pedestrian pathways within the community.
Mobility devices used by individuals with disabilities are permitted, even if motorized, provided they are used in a safe and reasonable manner consistent with pedestrian traffic.
Sidewalks are designated for pedestrian use and limited nonmotorized travel only. See definitions.
E-bikes that are Class 1 and Class 2 are considered the same as regular bicycles and must follow the same rules as regular bicycles. Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes are pedal assist bikes with or without a throttle. These e-bikes cannot move without pedaling. Class 3 e-bikes are not considered bicycles for the purposes of this policy as they can be moved without pedaling and only using the throttle (see graphic on page 15) .
ROADWAY USE
Motorized scooters or mopeds (including 49cc vehicles) may only be operated on roadways if they meet all legal requirements, including:
• Identical insurance coverage required for golf carts and Association named as additional insured party*
PROHIBITED AREAS
The following areas are strictly prohibited for motorized vehicle operation:
• Sidewalks
• Pedestrian pathways
• Common walkways
• Any area designated for pedestrian use
DEFINITIONS
“Limited non-motorized travel” means pedestrian movement and the use of human-powered or mobility-assistive devices intended to aid walking or personal mobility at pedestrian speeds. This includes:
• Walking, jogging, and running
• Bicycles operated at safe, pedestrian-compatible speeds
• Scooters that are human-powered (kick scooters)
• Mobility devices for individuals with disabilities, including:
ӽ Wheelchairs (manual or motorized)
ӽ Power wheelchairs
ӽ Mobility scooters
ӽ Walkers, rollators, and similar assistive devices
EXCLUSIONS
Limited non-motorized travel does NOT include:
• Gas-powered scooters or mopeds
• Dirt bikes or minibikes
• Off-road vehicles
• Any motorized vehicle not designed as a mobility aid for a person with a disability
CLARIFICATION
This is not a new rule. This policy is intended to clarify and affirm existing obligations under the Governing Document and Florida statutes. This shall apply to all existing and future situations.
Adoption of this policy does not create new rights or obligations but formalizes the Association’s interpretation and enforcement of existing provisions.
ENFORCEMENT
Violations may result in:
• Written notice
• Fines in accordance with governing documents
• Suspension of privileges
• Additional enforcement actions as permitted
EFFECTIVE DATE
This policy is effective immediately upon adoption and applies to all residents, tenants, and guests.
*Note: Golf cart rules are included in the Architectural Review Requirements document.
How to Enjoy the Fresh Air
Written by MEMBERS OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE
Should be easy, right? After gardening in the front yard, you have lunch on the lanai, letting the kids run around. After work, you walk the dog and snooze on the outdoor chaise. At times, though, fresh breathing-air cannot be found and you retreat back inside!
A vendor may run his truck motor a half-hour to keep his AC on while working. The guy on the neighbor’s roof sprays chlorine bleach onto your patio and pets. Landscapers noisily make clouds of carbon monoxide exhausts and spray toxic herbicides, all drifting onto your plants and kids, too; intruding into bloodstreams and brains. Birds and squirrels, terrified by the noise and fumes, flee.
A mom uses fabric softener in the dryer, and the noxious fumes push your planned picnic with guests back inside. The kids’ party stops after some neighborly degreaser and smoke drift over. So you hide inside, having come here to enjoy the outdoors!
What to do? Find facts, inquire of local experts, and speak up. With documents about the toxicity of an intruding pollutant, you can – ideally with a helper – politely ask offenders to cease what they’re doing and do better. Your household shouldn’t suffer. Vendors and neighbors can usually accomplish their tasks in less toxic or nontoxic ways. Ethically, we all have a duty to improve community breathing-air.
A vendor needn’t run his motor at length – he should turn it off
upon polite request. Roof cleaners can use better and less toxic products than bleach. Herbicides (which are pesticides) can be replaced with vinegar: just keep vinegar ice cubes in your freezer and, with a pinch of salt, place a cube upon an unwanted plant.
Landscapers ought to refrain from herbicide deployment and use rakes instead of noisy and polluting leaf-blowers, out of consideration for all – including wildlife. Smaller mowers are less expensive, less noisy, and less exhaust-producing. Electric mowers? Even better!
Every household can refrain from using dryer cloths – often more toxic than mower exhaust and herbicides. A breakdown of typical components by EPA Senior Chemist Lance Wallace, PhD (ret.) reveals three pages of toxic chemicals! Placing “dryer balls” and a drop of essential oil in the dryer can suffice for everyone’s wishes.
Sometimes we need to clean the driveway or start up the grill, knowing our chemicals will end up in others’ noses and brains… So we act carefully, out of consideration, not wishing to harm anyone.
Under the common-law “Cujus” doctrine – among Florida’s adopted laws – you have a right to the airspace around and above your home. With some inquiry and persistence, you’ll one day breathe more freely and will more confidently plan outdoor activities. And, your neighbors will thank you for the cleaner air!
Photography Disclaimer
We love sharing photos from events where you’re having fun! Please take a moment to read the disclaimer below regarding photography:
“By attending any event sponsored by Castle Group and Bellalago Club, you acknowledge and agree that Castle Group and Bellalago Club reserve the right to use any photographs, recordings, or videos taken at the event without the expressed written permission of individuals included in the photograph, recording, or video. These images may be used in various promotions, publications or media materials produced, used, or contracted by Castle Group and Bellalago Club, including but not limited to brochures, invitations, books, newspapers, newsletters, magazines, television, websites, and more. Some of these uses may be construed to be for profit. Individuals at these events implicitly consent to this use. Castle Group and Bellalago Club attempt to protect the privacy of individuals at its events and therefore no images will include full names or other personal identifying information without written consent from the photographed subject, parent or legal guardian.”
