Cory Lake Isles Islander - April 2024

OFFICE HOURS FOR THE CDD OFFICE IN THE BEACH CLUB

(i.e. when staff will be in the office)

9-5PM MON-WED-FRI

1-7PM TUE & THURSDAY

12-5 SATURDAY.

BEACH CLUB HOURS

THE BEACH CLUB IS OPEN TO RESIDENTS VIA FINGERPRINT ACCESS THE FOLLOWING TIMES/DATES

MON-SUN 9AM-9 PM *

*IF A RESIDENT HAS A PAID RENTAL AGREEMENT THE BEACH CLUB WILL BE CLOSED TO ALL OTHER RESIDENTS DURING THE TIME OF THE RENATAL AGREEMENT.

- - - - - -

FITNESS CENTER HOURS

Open 24/7

CDD BOARD MEMBERS:

Jorge Castillo

jcastillo@corylakescdd.net

Cynthia McIntyre

cmcintyre@corylakescdd.net

Ron Acoff

racoff@corylakescdd.net

Rene Fontcha

rfontcha@corylakescdd.net

Ann Belyea

abelyea@corylakescdd.net

CDD Facilities Manager

cell 813.924.4673

clcddfm@corylakescdd.net

CDD Office Administrator/Events Coordinator Dominique Green

Office 813.986.1031

clibeachclub@corylakescdd.net

clievents@corylakescdd.net

CONTACT INFO FOR THE CDD DISTRICT MANAGEMENT COMPANY

BREEZE

Resident hotline Phone: 813-565-4663

Monday-Friday: 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Emergency After Hours: 24/7

District Manager: Larry Krause

Email: Hello@BreezeHome.com

Website: www.breezehome.com

POA Board of Directors

Josh Russell

Yvonne Miller

Jeff Tatem

Riad Chehab

Santosh Verma

POA Property Management Company

Condominium Associates

Natalie Reiser

nreiser@condominiumassociates.com

Phone : 813-341-0943

HELPFUL PHONE NUMBERS

CDD OFFICE 813-986-1031

CDD OFFICE EMAIL clibeachclub@corylakescdd.net

POA OFFICE ...............................................................813-341-0943

Official Cory Lake Isles CDD Website: ..... www.corylakescdd.net

Envera Customer Service ....................................... (877) 936-8372

EMERGENCY (POLICE, FIRE, MEDICAL .................................... 911

Cross Creek gate 813-907-8400

Morris Bridge gate 813-986-0030

Hillsborough sheriff 813-274-8200

Fire Department 813 272 6600

Hillsborough county customer service ...................813-272-5900

To report power outage call TECO ..........................877-588-1010

To report gas leak or service call TECO GAS 877-832-6747

TECO Power Customer Service 888-223-0800

Trash collection -Solid waste management 813-272-5680

To report fallen tree on public property ...https://bit.ly/44YHuNf

To get trash can repaired/replaced ........ https://bit.ly/3B0CCds

Report missed trash pick up ..................... https://bit.ly/4722CUS Report illegal dumping ............................... https://bit.ly/44Grxf8

Report mosquito related issues https://bit.ly/3rHcenU

To report a nuisance alligator, call John Hall (during office hours) at CDD 813-986 1031

Tampa Police Dept. vacation watch request ...................................

https://bit.ly/3OrSY6H

Report to city of Tampa overgrown lot complaint .........................

https://bit.ly/44F169H

Report to city of Tampa sewer odor complaint

https://bit.ly/3Y6r7vY

An independent contractor staffs the gates at Cory Lake Isles. They provide access control 24/7. They are a valuable part of our security and can advise residents on security issues: however they have no law enforcement authority. Any law enforcement or criminal activity should be directed to the Tampa Police Department that has jurisdiction over Cory Lake Isles.

CORY LAKE ISLES REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST & 11-YEAR RESIDENT

Jen Wiggins

• Marketing Expert

• Local radio co-host “Let’s Talk Tampa”

• Host of “This is Tampa” Podcast

• Author & contributor to numerous publications & websites

About Jennifer

Jen is a lifelong Floridian and a local REALTOR® in Tampa Bay. Born & raised in South Florida, Jen then attended college at the University of Central Florida in Orlando and relocated to Tampa Bay in 2007. Jen and her family have lived in the New Tampa area for over 15+ years. Jen’s passion for the community is the foundation of her business. She is a wife & mom to three children. Jen is known for her features on Let’s Talk Tampa® and has co-hosted local podcasts, and radio shows, and writes content for local publications. She is involved in her children’s school, Greater Tampa REALTORS® Government Affairs Committee, & other local organizations. Jen and her family are supporters of A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay & the Tampa Bay Beagle Rescue. To learn more, contact Jen Wiggins at Jen@LetsTalkTampa.com or (813) 539-1678.

You can find Let’s Talk Tampa® social media on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and on www.letstalktampa.com.

“Working with Jen was an absolute delight! Her expertise in both selling our house and guiding us through the process of buying a new one simultaneously was truly remarkable. As first-time sellers, we greatly appreciated her support every step of the way. I wholeheartedly recommend Jen to anyone considering selling or buying a home. She made the entire experience smooth and stress-free. -Jordan

J.”

Jennifer Wiggins, REALTOR 813-539-1678

jwiggins@smithandassociates.com

Navigating The Governance in Cory Lake Isles

By Cynthia McIntyre, CDD Supervisor

As a resident of Cory Lake Isles, it’s essential to grasp the intricacies of community governance structures. Two common terms you'll often encounter are CDD (Community Development District) and POA (Property Owners Association). While both play crucial roles in maintaining our community's infrastructure and standards, they operate differently. Let’s delve into the distinctions between the two to better understand their functions and responsibilities.

Community Development District (CDD)

CDDs are a type of government entity with a main purpose to plan, finance, construct and operate community-wide infrastructure and amenities for residents to enjoy. CDDs must adhere to Florida’s Sunshine Laws so all meetings are open to the public and held in public settings. Cory Lake Isles has a CDD that is governed by five CDD Supervisors. Each of these Supervisors are elected to a four-year term. The election of these Supervisors takes place with the general state/federal elections held in November of each year. Three of the CDD Supervisor seats are up for election in November 2024 and two are up for election in 2026. The CDD Supervisors receive (by law) a $200 stipend for each meeting they attend.

The Cory Lake Isles developer, Gene Thompson, took out bonds to create and pay for the infrastructure and amenities in Cory Lake Isles. Those bonds are then paid back by the residents of the community

that are able to enjoy all the amenities the community has to offer. Homeowners living in Cory Lake Isles are assessed through their annual property tax bill in the form of a non-ad valorem assessment. A portion of the CDD fee is the actual repayment of Municipal Bonds, while the other part of the fee goes towards operation and management fees of Cory Lake Isles and county taxes. Most of these bonds in Cory Lake Isles are paid off but there continue to be some outstanding bonds for homes in the newer sections of Cory Lake Isles. While the municipal bond fees can dissipate, the operation and management fees, maintenance fees, security, and utilities will always be required. Therefore, there will always be a CDD in Cory Lake Isles. You can look at your tax bill to determine if you personally have any bonds left to pay off as well as your annual CDD fee.

CDD fees fund the following:

• Infrastructure such as roads, sidewalks, street lights

• Utilities for amenities

• Community Amenities (pools, parks, gym, clubhouse, etc.)

• Sewer and Water

• Landscaping

• Security

• General Maintenance

• Repayment of loans/bonds

Here’s a breakdown of

key features of the Cory Lake Isles CDD:

1. Infrastructure Development and Maintenance: CDDs are responsible for financing, constructing, and maintaining essential infrastructure within the community. This includes roads, utilities, drainage systems, parks, our lake, and recreational facilities.

2. Funding Mechanism: CDDs have the authority to issue tax-exempt bonds to fund infrastructure projects. These bonds are repaid by property owners within the district through special assessments on their property tax bills.

3. Board of Supervisors: The CDD is governed by a board of five supervisors, who are elected by the registered voters within the district. One does not need to be a property owner to vote for the CDD Supervisors. However, they must be registered to vote and they must live in Cory Lake Isles. The board oversees the CDD’s operations, budget, management of the community, maintenance, security, and infrastructure projects.

4. Public Meetings: CDDs are required to hold public meetings where residents can voice concerns, provide input on proposed projects, and stay informed about District activities. Cory Lake Isles CDD holds monthly meetings in the Beach Club.

5. Limited Regulatory Authority: While CDDs have the power to enforce certain

rules related to infrastructure and common areas, their authority is primarily focused on managing and maintaining community assets rather than regulating individual personal property. The CDD’s responsibility ends at your property line.

6. Amenities Management: Our CDD oversees the Cory Lake Isles amenities such as swimming pools, clubhouses, tennis courts, volley ball courts and playgrounds.

7. Staff and Management of the CDD: The District Management Company hired by the Cory Lake Isles board of CDD Supervisors is Breeze Management. We have a full time Facility Manager and an Office Administrator with 2 part-time Office Assistants and Pool Attendants. Their offices are located in the Beach Club.

Property Owners Association (POA)

The POA, or Property Owners Association, is a private non-profit organization established by the Developer of Cory Lake Isles, Gene Thompson. Here’s what you need to know about our POA:

1. Property Maintenance and Rules Enforcement: Our POA is responsible for enforcing the covenants, rules and regulations, architectural guidelines, and maintenance standards. This includes everything that applies to your home including

landscaping requirements, exterior home appearance guidelines, noise restrictions, etc. The POA has hired a property management company (Condominium Associates) to assist with these responsibilities. Our full time LCAM (Licensed Community Area Manager) is an employee of Condominium Associates.

2. Membership and Dues: Membership in the POA is mandatory for homeowners within the community, and payment of POA dues is required to fund their operational expenses. Failure to pay dues can result in penalties or restrictions.

3. Board of Directors: The POA is governed by the five board of directors, who are elected by homeowners to serve a one-year term. The board establishes and enforces rules, manages finances, and makes decisions on behalf of the association. The POA board meets monthly in the Beach Club.

POA fees fund the following:

• The management company fees

• Legal fees

• Insurance

• Office expenses

Understanding the Distinction

While both CDDs and POAs serve

similar purposes in maintaining community standards and amenities, they operate under different legal frameworks and have distinct roles and responsibilities. Our CDDs focus is primarily on infrastructure development and financing. The actions of the CDD Supervisors are governed by the Florida Statutes. The POA is responsible for personal property maintenance, covenant enforcement, establishing and maintaining consistent community design standards and community management. The POA actions and responsibilities are governed by the Cory Lake Isle covenants. In Cory Lake Isles, both entities work in tandem to ensure our community remains vibrant, well-maintained, and governed effectively. By understanding the roles of CDD and POA, residents can actively participate in community affairs, contribute to decision-making processes, and help shape the future of our beloved Cory Lake Isles.

If you have further questions or would like to learn more about how CDD and POA function in Cory Lake Isles, don't hesitate to reach out to the respective boards or the management companies. Their contact information can be found on The Islander “Contacts” page. Together, we can continue to build and sustain a thriving community we're proud to call home. •

Join Us in Building Community at Cory Lake Isles

Dear Residents of Cory Lake Isles,

As a member of the Property Owners Association (POA) Board of Directors, I am excited to announce the launch of our new Welcome Committee!

Moving to a new neighborhood can be both exciting and daunting. From unpacking boxes to navigating unfamiliar surroundings, the transition can sometimes feel overwhelming. That's where our Welcome

bors. Here's how you can get involved:

1. Greeters: Serve as ambassadors of hospitality by greeting new residents as they move in, providing them with a welcome package, and answering any

At Cory Lake Isles, we pride ourselves on being a close-knit and inclusive community, and our Welcome Committee will play a crucial role in ensuring that every new neighbor feels warmly embraced and supported as they settle into their new home.

Why a Welcome Committee?

Committee comes in. By extending a friendly hand and offering assistance and guidance, we can help new residents feel at home from the moment they arrive.

How You Can Get Involved

We are seeking enthusiastic volunteers to join our Welcome Committee and help us extend a warm welcome to new neigh-

questions they may have about our community.

2. Resource Providers: Share your knowledge and expertise about Cory Lake Isles with new neighbors, offering insider tips on local amenities, services, and activities that can enhance their living experience.

3. Community Connectors: Help new residents plug into

our vibrant community by introducing them to neighbors, inviting them to social gatherings or events and facilitating connections with shared interests or hobbies.

4. Follow-Up Support: Check in on new neighbors after they've settled in to see how they're adjusting and offer ongoing support or assistance as needed.

Why Volunteer?

Joining the Welcome Committee is not only a rewarding way to give back to our community, but it's also an opportunity to forge meaningful connections with fellow residents and make a positive impact on the lives of others. By volunteering your time and talents, you can help create a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and included. How to Sign Up

If you're interested in becoming a part of our Welcome Committee, please reach out to me, Yvonne Miller, at MillerYclipoa@gmail.com. Whether you're a longtime resident or new to Cory Lake Isles yourself, your willingness to extend a friendly hand to new neighbors is greatly appreciated. Together, let's embrace the spirit of hospitality and camaraderie that defines our community. With your help, we can ensure that every new neighbor who joins us at Cory Lake Isles feels right at home from day one.

Thank you for your support, and I look forward to welcoming you aboard the Welcome Committee!

Warm regards,

Yvonne Miller Vice President POA Board of Directors

Springtime with Pets in Florida

By Heather Thompson

As spring blossoms in the Sunshine State, pet owners eagerly embrace the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors with their furry companions. However, amidst the beauty of blooming flowers and warmer weather, there are potential hazards. From seasonal allergies to safety concerns, navigating springtime in Florida with pets requires vigilance and proactive measures.

Spring Allergies

Florida's lush landscape springs to life during this time of year, but with it comes an increase in pollen and allergens that can trigger allergic reactions in pets. Common symptoms of seasonal allergies in pets include itching, scratching, sneezing, watery eyes, and respiratory issues. To alleviate discomfort and reduce exposure to allergens, consider the following:

Consultation with a Veterinarian: If you suspect your pet is

suffering from seasonal allergies, consult with your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment options. They may recommend allergy testing or prescribe medication to manage symptoms effectively.

Regular Grooming: Maintain a regular grooming routine for your pet to remove pollen and allergens from their fur. Bathing them with pet-friendly shampoos can help alleviate itching and soothe irritated skin.

Indoor Time: Limit outdoor activities during peak pollen times, typically in the morning and evening. Opt for indoor play or exercise to minimize exposure to allergens.

Safety Concerns

Springtime in Florida also brings unique safety concerns for pets, including encounters with wildlife, toxic plants, and increased flea and tick activity. To keep your pet safe and secure,

consider implementing the following precautions:

Supervised Outdoor Time: Always supervise your pet when outdoors, especially in areas where encounters with wildlife are common. Keep them on a leash or within a fenced yard to prevent wandering and potential dangers.

Flea and Tick Prevention: Ensure your pet is up-to-date on flea and tick preventatives to protect them from parasites that thrive in warmer weather. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the most suitable preventative options for your pet's needs.

Avoid Toxic Plants: Be mindful of toxic plants that may be in bloom during spring, such as azaleas, lilies, and sago palms. Keep these plants out of reach or opt for pet-safe alternatives in your garden or home.

Outdoor plants in Florida toxic to dogs and cats:

• Azaleas

• Caladium

• Coontie

• Crown of Thorns

• Daylilly

• Golden dewdrop

• King Sago

• Queen Sago

• Lantana

• Oleander

• Pokeweed

• Air potato

• Tomato plants

• Onion, leeks and chives

Springtime in Florida offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures with pets, but it's essential to prioritize their health and safety amid seasonal challenges. By being vigilant about allergies, implementing safety precautions, and seeking guidance from veterinary professionals, pet owners can enjoy a vibrant and worry-free spring season with their beloved companions.

EMBRACING CHANGE

with a New POA Board of Directors

By Heather Thompson

Change is not just a possibility but a promise as Cory Lake Isles welcomes its new Property Owners Association (POA) Board of Directors. Elected under the banner of "New Day - New POA," these candidates have secured a resounding vote of confidence from the community, promising a fresh perspective and proactive leadership.

The Election:

A Mandate for Change

In a remarkable display of community engagement, the recent POA elections saw an overwhelming majority of homeowners in Cory Lake Isles casting their votes for the "New Day - New POA" candidates. This landslide victory signals a collective desire for change and a commitment to charting a new course for our beloved community.

Meet Your New POA Board of Directors

Let's take a moment to get acquainted with the new POA board:

Josh Russell: President

My wife, Corissa, of 27 years, & I moved from Kansas 4 years ago. Realizing we were leaving many friends & family behind, we committed ourselves to building a community in Cory Lakes. We have two daughters, Makaiya, 23, who begins medical school this fall, & Ashlynn, who will graduate

from high school this summer. I have spent the past 20 years developing & supporting software for the manufacturing market. Corissa & I are foster parents and currently have two wonderful young boys in our care. In our free time, we enjoy kayaking, hiking, biking & golf. Corissa & I have spent the past 20 years in youth ministry, volunteering where we can. I am honored to represent all homeowners in Cory Lake Isles on the POA board to protect our home values and make it all it can be.

Josh recently said, “My wife and I chose to relocate to Cory Lake Isle to join the many friends who were living and enjoying this wonderful community. Immediately after moving in, we were greeted by dozens of neighbors who warmly welcomed us and helped make Cory Lake Isles home. Through good times, challenges, and loss we have seen our community rally together to support each other. After several months of working with

the previous board of directors to remedy a safety concern and illegal activity on my isle, I felt this was the perfect opportunity to join the Property Owner’s Association Board and serve our neighbors who have provided so much support for our family. I thank all our supporters and volunteers who supported the campaign. I am looking forward to working with this dedicated new team of directors to serve and improve our community.”

Yvonne Miller: Vice President

I have lived in Cory Lake Isles for the past 17 years, with my husband and two teenage children. We moved here from New York to enjoy the warm

sunshine which we know being from the Islands. We selected Cory Lake Isle because of the many amenities & lake. I have been in banking for over 30 years, with a bachelor's degree in management. Living here for

this length of time gives me a great perspective as to how the community has changed and not in a good way.

Following the election, Yvonne said, “I’d like to sincerely thank our supporters and volunteers who so graciously assisted with, and/or voted for myself and team to become your new CLI POA Board of Directors. My plan as your new Vice President is to uphold the covenant in a fair and impartial manner.

I will work tirelessly to rewrite of our covenants including those items laid out in my platform on which I ran. I will work with home owners who may be experiencing uniquely challenging situations. I will seek input from each member of our community on how to end the division among us and unite CLI as a family. Our team welcomes your feedback and suggestions in the days, weeks, and months to come. We look forward to your continued support to ensure that our community is being served effectively and fairly. All your voices matter. We are confident that we can achieve our community’s collective goals through transparency, accountability, and respect. It starts with your involvement. It is truly an honor to serve all in our community as we begin our work. Our differences and similarities make us a wonderful community in which to live and each challenge is an opportunity for us to transform them into successes we can celebrate. Thank you!”

John Russell

Yvonne Miller

Jeff Tatem: Treasurer

I have lived in Cory Lake Isles since 2006. I have an MBA & am an Information Technology Contract Administrator. I was on the Hunter's Green POA as the Treasurer & President for 3 years. I will ensure that all important community decisions are made with input of the

Homeowners. This includes the purchase/sale or annexation of land, changes to the covenants and/or any capital expenditures. I believe all homeowners should vote & approve these decisions. I will ensure responsible decision making on the part of the POA BOD.

Jeff Tatem stated, “As we walked the neighborhoods of Cory lake Isles introducing ourselves, it remained truly gratifying to continually hear I was not alone in the firm belief that change was needed. Though change was not easy, with the help of our many New Day volunteers and the commitment of homeowners to make their votes count, we were able to prevail. What I have stated from the beginning and what I plan to ensure happens through our many platform initiatives is that the voice and best interests of Cory Lake Isles homeowners serve as the guiding principle upon which we operate. I also very much look forward to a renewed sense of engagement with homeowners to make Cory Lake Isles the best possible community in the area!”

Santosh Verma: Secretary

My beautiful wife, 2 young daughters & I have lived in Cory Lake isles since 2017. I enjoy playing sports & socializing with my many Cory Lake Isles friends. I work in the Tech Industry. I will bring back

transparency about the POA activities. I feel strongly that it is the responsibility & right of homeowners to decide if land is to be annexed into Cory Lake Isles. I will ensure that the voice of the homeowners is heard at every meeting. We will keep the residents informed via regular accurate communication, and detailed meeting minutes. I will enforce the covenants fairly & equally so CLI no longer looks like a community that is decaying due to neglect.

“I stand for the betterment of Cory Lake Isle and its wonderful residents. I am happy to get an opportunity to serve them,” stated Santosh recently.

Captain Riad Chehab: Member at Large.

Since our move from Palm

Beach County in 2017, my wife Noor, our three wonderful children, our cat, & I have embraced Cory Lake Isles for its comprehensive amenities. As an Airline Captain with over 20 years of experience, a Broker/ Owner of a Real Estate Firm, and a proud US Army Veteran, I've witnessed the transformation of CLI from its once captivating charm to its current state of decline. My background in leadership, both in the military and in business, equips me with a unique perspective on what it takes to revive and enhance our community. I am committed to improving leadership, transparency, honesty, and accountability.

Captain Chehab said the following after being elected to the BOD, “This win marks a significant transition in our community’s leadership. This change comes after a campaign deeply rooted in our commitment to revitalizing Cory Lake Isles, ensuring the integrity of our electoral process, and fostering a transparent, equitable, and engaged community atmosphere. This sweeping victory is not just a win for me or us, the new members of the POA BOD, but a promise to every resident of Cory Lake Isles to work tirelessly towards a brighter, more united future.”

A New Era of Collaboration and Progress

The "New Day - New POA" board is committed to ushering in a new era of collaboration, transparency, and progress. Their platform prioritizes:

1. Open Communication:

Implementing channels for transparent communication between the board and homeowners, ensuring that concerns and feedback are addressed promptly and effectively.

2. Community Engagement: Fostering a sense of unity and belonging through community events, initiatives, and volunteer opportunities that bring neighbors together and strengthen bonds.

3. Financial Responsibility: Implementing sound financial management practices to ensure the prudent allocation of resources and the long-term sustainability of community infrastructure and amenities.

4. Enhanced Services and Amenities: Identifying opportunities for improvement and expansion of community services and amenities, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of residents.

5. Fair and Equitable Enforcement of the Covenants: We will enforce the covenants taking into consideration the personal situations of homeowners. In other words, we will not enforce covenants with an iron fist but instead with compassion and open channels of communication.

Your Voice Matters

As we embark on this new chapter, your input and participation are invaluable. The "New Day - New POA" board is committed to being responsive to the needs and aspirations of the community, and your feedback will play a crucial role in shaping our collective future.

Whether you have ideas, concerns, or simply want to get involved, we encourage you to reach out to the board and share your thoughts. Together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant Cory Lake Isles that we're proud to call home.

As we bid farewell to the old and embrace the new, let us unite in our shared vision for a brighter tomorrow. With determination, collaboration, and a spirit of optimism, we can make Cory Lake Isles the best it can be for generations to come. Here's to a "New Day" and a promising future ahead!

Your Voice Matters

Jeff Tatem

Santosh Verma

Captain Riad Chehab

Aluna's Zodiac

By Aluna Michaels

APRIL 2024

Aries (March 21 – April 19) — Happy birthday Aries! The Solar Eclipse in your sign provides deep healing for your sense of self-worth. Meditate on abundance, since you can remove old negative programs about financial lack. It’s your time to shine! You can have health breakthroughs, especially involving inflammation or auto-immune issues. Set new goals, and focus on taking small steps toward success. Resist thinking bigger moves get your there faster!

Taurus (April 20 – May 20) — Mercury retrograde this month is a great time for deep meditation. You can have important messages from your intuition during quiet reflection, and also from your dreams. Combined with the Solar Eclipse, you can make strides in healing negative self-talk. These “scripts” are subconscious, but deplete your physical and emotional well-being. You’ll be amazed how you’ll be able to notice, catch and redirect the toxic thoughts!

Gemini (May 21 – June 20) — The Solar Eclipse heals your sense of meaning in your life. You might get involved with community in a fulfilling way that is also fun! With Mercury retrograde this month, old friends can come back into your orbit. If anyone is on your mind, reach out and reconnect! If you’re struggling at work, breathe through your frustration. A promotion or job offer can come through that you’d nearly given up on!

Cancer (June 21 –July 22) —It’s an amazing career month! Embrace your success in all areas of your life. Meditate on healing “impostor syndrome” or any beliefs that you “don’t deserve good things”. Open your heart and mind to the abundance, praise and positivity around you. In terms of your spiritual life, cut yourself slack if

you don’t meditate “perfectly”. Be gentle and compassionate in your yoga practice. Enjoy your time of connecting with the Universe and with your soul!

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22) — This month’s Solar Eclipse helps you break through old resentments. Meditate on deep disappointments you’ve had over the past two years. Ask yourself how these experiences have affected your belief system about the goodness of people and the Universe. You can have healthy boundaries and incorporate the wisdom gained from painful times while still keeping your heart open. Taking walks in nature will be especially healing.

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22) — Relationships can seemed blocked or at a stalemate, but deep healing is possible now. The Solar Eclipse helps you remember the original value in your partnership. You might be surprised how much closeness is restored when you tap back into the foundation of your connection. If single, your heart can re-open to new love. Also, financial blocks shift and you can be in the flow of abundance again!

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22) — With the Solar Eclipse you can be falling in love with someone new, or if partnered, a renaissance of love can start between you! Even Mercury retrograde helps you remember the romance in a current partnerships or past ones. You’ll reconnect your heart with hope and joy. Meditate on any self-criticism you have for your body. Practice self-compassion for any “flaws”. Also be sure you have work/life balance. Don’t drive yourself too far with the stress of perfectionism.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21) — This month’s Solar

Eclipse helps you loosen up the stress your body and mind have been under. Like Libra pals, you’ve got to be more aware of the lies perfectionism tells you! You’re driven and ambitious, but don’t let your physical and mental health suffer. Meditation reveals ways to create more balance. It’s so simple, but even taking a few deep breaths with full exhales every hour makes a world of difference. You’ll remain connected with your grounded center!

Sagittarius

(Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)

-- The Solar Eclipse wants you to explore your creativity! Even if you don’t see yourself as artsy, have fun playing games or sports. Enjoying time with children or pets will uplift your soul! Create more discipline in your home even if that means tidying up or working to declutter. You’ll find your mood is better. You’ll also feel less scattered and be more efficient, which leaves more time for play! If single you can even start a new romance!

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19) — You may feel frustrated getting your ideas across with family members or colleagues, but the Solar Eclipse brings breakthroughs! If you have important conversations, write things out beforehand and reread it. You’ll make sure you’re covering all the topics you need to cover, and the best wording to use when you have the actual conversation. Work with positive affirmations since these struggles may have lowered your self-esteem and started internal criticism!

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18) — If you’ve had financial stress, things will

get better quickly this month! The Solar Eclipse lifts your mood. You might even make new friends who improve your outlook on life. Also with this month’s Mercury retrograde, make time to connect with old friends. Even if schedules haven’t synced up lately, plans can fall into place quickly now. Take advantage of the synchronicity! Meditate on gratitude for even more emotional improvements.

Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20) –Meditate on your body’s strength and power!Forgive your body for any perceived shortcomings or weaknesses. It’s a great time to start an exercise routine. You’ll be surprised how fast you tone up and feel stronger. Also, the Solar Eclipse brings financial abundance. Additionally, look at your budget and recognize unnecessary spending. Ironically, by cutting back you’ll create an inflow of more finances!

or Zoom. Call (727) 239-7179 (landline, so no texting!) or call/text (248) 583-1663 or visit www. alunamichaels.com

Aluna Michaels is a second-generation astrologer. She also holds a Masters in Spiritual Counseling and has been teaching and consulting for more than three decades. Her book “Spiritual Gifts of the 12 Astrological Signs” is now on Amazon in Kindle version and as an E-book on her website. Aluna is available for appointments in her home, by phone

Risks of Skin Cancer in Central Florida

By Heather Thompson

Florida's reputation as the "Sunshine State" draws millions of visitors and residents to its beautiful beaches and outdoor attractions every year. However, beneath the allure of endless sun-kissed days lies a lurking danger: skin cancer. With its subtropical climate and high UV radiation levels, Florida poses significant risks for sun-related skin damage

Understanding the Risks

Florida's proximity to the equator results in intense sunlight year-round. Coupled with its clear skies and reflective surfaces such as sand and water, the state becomes a hotspot for harmful UV radiation. Prolonged exposure to these rays increases the risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.

The Impact of Sun Exposure

Skin cancer rates in Florida are among the highest in the

United States, with residents and tourists alike facing the consequences of overexposure to the sun. Skin cancer not only poses serious health risks but also places a significant burden on healthcare systems and individuals' quality of life. Furthermore, the effects of sun damage may not manifest immediately but can accumulate over time, making prevention crucial.

Preventive Measures

Make sure your sunscreen is free of Oxybecal compound that is toxic to coral reefs and other types of marine life.

• Seek Shade: Limit direct sun exposure during peak hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Seek shade under umbrellas, trees, or shelters whenever possible, especially for young children and individuals with fair skin.

• Sunscreen Protection: Always use broad-spectrum sunscreen

with SPF 30 or higher, applying it generously and frequently, especially when spending time outdoors. Remember to reapply every 80 minutes, or more often if swimming or sweating. For the health and safety of Florida’s marine life, be sure your sunscreen is oxybenzone free, when swimming in Floridian waters.

• Protective Clothing: Wear lightweight, tightly woven clothing that covers as much skin as possible. Wear driving gloves while driving to protect exposed skin. The use of widebrimmed hats and sunglasses with UV protection can shield the face, neck, and eyes from harmful rays. Children’s skin is particularly sensitive to the sun. Special swimsuits are designed for children that provide 50+ UPF protection that block 98% of harmful UVA and UVB .

• Avoid Tanning Beds: Steer clear of artificial UV sources

such as tanning beds, which can accelerate skin aging and increase the risk of skin cancer.

• Regular Skin Checks: Perform self-examinations of your skin monthly and seek professional dermatological evaluations annually, particularly if you notice any changes in moles, freckles, or skin lesions.

While Florida's sunshine beckons with promises of outdoor adventure and relaxation, it's essential to be mindful of the associated risks of skin cancer. By adopting proactive measures such as sun protection, seeking shade, and regular skin checks, individuals can enjoy the splendor of the Sunshine State while safeguarding their skin health for years to come. Remember, the best defense against skin cancer starts with prevention. Stay safe, stay sun smart!

Expert ER Care

When does the human spirit show up? When minutes matter? In moments of bravery? In an expert’s hands? Maybe there’s no way to measure the human spirit, but we see it every day in our AdventHealth Emergency Rooms. If you or your loved one are injured or experience chest pain, stroke symptoms or severe stomach pain, go to your closest ER in Pasco County. We’re here 24/7 to help you feel whole.

TheERExperts.com

In case of a medical emergency, call 911.