Save these Dates
April
April Fool’s Day KLHOA Board Meeting, 7:00 pm at the KLHOA Office Tax Day Orchard Pond Toll Road Ribbon Cutting & Festivities Passover Begins & Ends 4/30/16 Arbor Day KLHOA Kids Fishing Contest, Lake Monkey Business from 8:00 am to noon
1 14 15 18 23 29 30 “The Killearn Lakes ‘Lakes View’ Magazine is not partnered or affiliated with any other publications. KLHOA Board and Staff request you please support the advertisers who support your neighborhood.”
2016 Board of Directors (Elected by general membership)
May 1 5 8 10
Directors Trina Searcy, President Tom Martineau, Treasurer Joe Barnett, Director Olan Brunson, Director
Mark Reichert, Vice President Joanie Trotman, Secretary Jeff Caster, Director
Administrative Staff Nancy C. Johnson Anne Marshall Gregory Durant Sharon Malloy
Operations Director, Bookkeeper & Editor Office Manager Field Manager Assistant Editor, Assistant Office Manager
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. T: 850-668-3231 | F: 850-894-1477 E: Admin@killearnlakeshoa.org 7110 Beech Ridge Trail, Tallahassee FL, 32312 Corporate Records are available upon written request.
www.KillearnLakesHOA.org If you haven’t already, register your information with our NEW website if you wish to continue to receive resident email alerts from the association office. Directions to do so are directly beside the registration box located on the ‘Contact Us’ page. Thank you!
Cover Photo Contest Photographer:
The photographer for this cover photo is Tommy McGraw.. Did you know that your photography could be showcased on our cover? If you have a photo you would like to submit for consideration, simply send it to admin2@killearnlakeshoa.org. All submitted photos should be at the highest available quality {at least 300dpi}. Entries will be reviewed by the editor and assistant editor. The selected photo will appear on an upcoming issue of the “Lakes View” Magazine. It would be helpful if you could share a personal story along with the photo. Call our office at (850) 668-3231 if you have any additional questions. We look forward to “showcasing” your photo submissions!
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Lakes View / Issue 76/ April 2016
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KLHOA Dues – If unpaid a $25 late fee is incurred Cinco De Mayo Mother’s Day KLHOA Quarterly Open Member Meeting, 7:00 pm at the Bradfordville Community Center (Old School House) Memorial Day (KLHOA office will be closed)
The Architectural Control Committee (ACC) generally meets every other Friday at 10 am at the HOA office. If you wish to meet with the ACC, please call the office at 668-3231 and make an appointment.
Important Phone Numbers
Fire Department & Leon County Sheriff (non-emergency situations only):
606-3300
Talquin Electric (ex: Light out on your street) (Bradfordville office):
893-6853
Outages (24-hour service): Leon County Public Roads: CALL BEFORE YOU DIG:
(1-888) 802-1832 606-1400 (1-800) 432-4770
Animal Control:
606-5400
Leon County Mosquito Control:
606-1400
Waste Pro:
606-1899
Leon County Storm Water Questions::
606-1400
Stay Connected with Killearn Lakes. Like our Facebook page Killearn Lakes Homeowners and for all the latest news visit our website at www.killearnlakeshoa.org.
Being a mother means that heart is no longer yours; it wanders wherever
children do.
Editor’s Note
Florida is the one state where you may wake up in the mornings and you need to turn on the heat but by the afternoon you turn on the air conditioning because the sun has heated things up. This year it seems we really didn’t have a winter, yet the first day of spring we had a frost warning. You’ve got to love it. We are very lucky to have an early profusion of colors that can only make you think of springtime!
O
ur April issue contains quite a lot of information, some of which was either requested or suggested by you, our readers. On page 9, information regarding the use of golf carts within Killearn Lakes is provided by the Leon County Sheriff ’s Office. The roadways in Killearn Lakes are public roads, and must meet fairly restrictive conditions before the key is even turned on and those carts driven out here. The private roads within Golden Eagle, and a few other private roads, are the only exceptions to these restrictions. April brings back one of the most popular events sponsored by the Fish & Wildlife Committee of the KLHOA. This year, the Annual Kids Fishing Contest will be held on Saturday, April 30th from 8:00 am until 12:00 pm. Please check out the contest rules and start times on page 21. Our District 4 County Commissioner, Bryan Desloge, has provided quite a lot of useful information in his article, found on page 4. The Orchard Pond toll road will open April 18th, and according to Bryan, you will be allowed a freebie for the first ten days of its opening. After that, the toll will be $1.19 each way. You may want to purchase a Sun Pass if you plan to travel the toll road often. Our Business Spotlight features a new local business called My Kid’s Driving, LLC. Susan Hinds is a Killearn Lakes mom of three sons, who has founded this business in an effort to help keep our young drivers safe. It is something Susan has thought about and has been developing for some time, and launched the opening just a few weeks ago. I had the pleasure of meeting Susan recently, and her enthusiasm and bubbly personality are quite infectious. We wish her good luck with this new venture. Finally, as we celebrate Mom’s special day this May 8th, I would like to wish my lovely 87- years-young mother in Georgia, and all other moms, a very Happy Mother’s Day! Till next time.....
Nancy C. Johnson
Operations Director, Bookkeeper & Editor
Bryan's Brief
April 2016
Can’t you feel it! Spring is just around the corner. The dogwoods, crepe myrtles and azaleas will be in full bloom soon and with that will come mowing of lawns and pruning the shrubs, but isn’t it the time of year we all love so much. Leon County dresses up in her best flora and fauna attire and we realize just how fortunate we are to have the quality of life we so enjoy. There’s no place like home!! The following are some updates for you. Please let me know if there are other issues of interest or if you have questions regarding any of these.
County’s Leadership Honors. I will be sworn in as the president of the National Association of Counties in July. County Administrator Vince Long was elected and currently services as the president of the Florida Association of County Managers. County Attorney Herb Thiele was elected by his peers and serves as president of the International Municipal Lawyers Association. Tourist Development Director Lee Daniel was elected as the president of the Florida Association of Destination Marketing Organizations. Public Works Senior Design Engineer George Su was elected to serve as president of the local American Public Works Association, Local Big Bend Branch. I provide you all this information so that you know the leadership you have in your County government. I doubt there is any other government anywhere who has the equivalent. We’re here to serve!
Federal Update: On Feb. 24, I had the honor of testifying before the U.S. Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs' Subcommittee on Regulatory Affairs and Federal Management. As a former FAC President and current National Association of Counties (NACo) First Vice President, I was charged with making the case for improving the federal government's process for evaluating and reducing the harmful impacts of federal mandates on counties and residents. "Without improving intergovernmental collaboration in the development and implementation of federal agency regulations, these mandates will continue to add another layer of fiscal strain on counties already operating under considerable pressure." We will continue to work on the federal and state level to minimize unfunded mandates to local government and look forward to wins in this area too. While in D.C. I had the pleasure of representing the Florida Association of Counties in laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. If you have not visited this national treasure, I hope that one day you will. I can’t say enough about the feelings that wash over you as you pay tribute to our fallen soldiers. Please keep those who protect and serve in your prayers.
Canopy Roads Advisory Committee– I know many of you are aware this issue that came before the Commission March 8 and to all of you who contacted me sharing your recommendations and concerns and to those who worked on the "Statement to the Community" regarding preservation of our canopy roads – I thank you! I welcome all the feedback I can get to help in the decision making process. There's obviously some tweaking that needs to be done, but I have every faith the committee, with the support of the department and legal staff will be able to handle it. Having clearer direction regarding their responsibilities, regular training of the committee members, and Permitting staff support should help expedite the review process for the committee. Of course, having an urban forester at their disposal won't hurt either.
Emergency Medical Service– I am pleased to inform you that the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS) conferred another three-year accreditation to EMS. As a part of the process, CAAS conducts an on-site review of EMS to ensure that each characteristic of the accreditation requirements are strictly met. EMS received a perfect score on the evaluation and no deficiencies were identified during the process. As you may remember, our EMS system became the first government-operated EMS system in Florida to meet the rigorous standards and receive accreditation. County Leadership Recognition– I thought I would recap your
DISTRICT IV PROJECTS Thomasville/Proctor Rd Recreation Park Property – Thought you might like an update on this. The County bought 100 acres on the corner of Proctor and Thomasville just north of Chiles High. There's money for this project ($8-10M) that was allocated in the next round of Blueprint tax dollars that will start in 2019 - I'll push as hard as I can to accelerate the build out and my hope is that in the short term (next 2 years or so) we can start cutting some trails for some light passive uses. It’s my intent to ask for citizen input on how this is developed. It’s still a long time coming, but the money is there. That’s the best news of all! Bradfordville Community Center (Bannerman Rd) – We still have continued interest in our classes at the NE Branch Library. We’ve added a fourth fitness class and will feature three art classes in April. The Bannerman Road Widening – The completion of the road widening from Thomasville Rd to 900 feet west of Quail Commons will be delayed as we’ve had some utility relocation issues. However,
traffic will be shifted to the new roadway, located south of the existing road, on or about May 1. Drive carefully until everyone gets used to the new traffic routing. This shift will allow them to move forward with the next portion of the project. I should be able to give you more accurate completion dates in my next newsletter. Orchard Pond Toll Road – Plans for the ribbon cutting and festivities are tentatively scheduled for April 18. The first 10 days after April 18 will be free. If you don’t have Sun Pass, you may want to contact the State to secure one. The existing Orchard Pond Rd will be converted into a bike pedestrian trail. More information to follow. Killearn Lakes Sidewalk Installation – The survey of the property is complete, but we’ve not yet received the conceptional drawings. Once we receive and approve the drawings a meeting will be scheduled with the Homeowners Association to go over the plans. You may recall that the design is for the installation of a sidewalk on Chadwick from Bull Headly to Deerlake and from Deerlake to Journey’s End. They’ll also connect the sidewalk to the small stretch on Pheasant Run where there is no sidewalk. This is being done under the Safe Routes To School Initiative and is being funded by the local option Gas Tax and Blueprint 2000 allocations. Killearn Lakes Unit 2 and Unit 3 Stormwater Project Improvements – The actual construction work is complete in these two units, and only a few items are left on the punch list. Those are primarily landscaping. Killearn Lakes Unit 1 – is under construction with an eight to nine month completion date if there are no adverse weather conditions to delay construction. The problem we’re encountering is that this is a designated wetland area protected by State Environmental Regulations and we’re challenged in doing any type construction or restoration in that area. The work is moving very slowly. Roadway Restoration – The culverts under Kinhega need to be replaced and are in the permitting process for design work. We should be moving forward with the installation with those culverts beginning April. You can expect there to be lane closures when work begins. Repaving of Kinhega will be done when the culvert project is complete. It's been bitter sweet over the past few months knowing that I would be walking my daughter down the aisle at her wedding. Testifying before a congressional meeting and laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier were definite highs that I’m grateful to share with you. I consider it an honor and a privilege to serve as your District IV Commissioner and I commit to you that I will continue to do the best job I can in representing you and our community. As always, I welcome your input and appreciate all of you who act as
my eyes in the District. Many of the improvements we’ve already made, or are currently working on, came from citizen suggestions or observations. As you plan for your neighborhood/homeowner’s association meetings, please let me know the dates and times so that I may join you. Please don’t hesitate to call me if you have any questions or concerns, deslogeb@leoncountyfl.gov or 606-5364.
Bryan Desloge Leon County Commission District IV
Leon County Board of County Commissioners
Business Spotlight Putting your child behind the wheel for their first solo drive is one of the scariest moments in a parent’s life. That fear never goes away. “My Kid’s Driving, LLC” (MKD) is a brand new, local business that provides parents with the reassurance that other drivers are looking out for your young driver when they are on the road. At the same time, knowing there is a monitoring system in place, your young driver is more likely to drive the way you think they do. Just like truckers and fleet vehicles with “How’s My Driving,” each MKD subscription includes a window decal that says “Let Me Know How My Kid’s Driving!” A toll free number and an extension for that specific vehicle are listed on the decal. When a compliment or complaint is called in, the recording will be sent directly to the parent’s email in an audio file. It is then up to the parent to determine the validity and consequence of the complaint. Essentially, this allows the community to watch out for your young driver when you cannot, allowing you to breathe a little easier. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motor vehicle accidents are the number one cause of
death in teens, and over 5,000 teens (our children) die in car accidents every year in the United States. MKD wants to change these statistics, and help prevent them from ever becoming a reality for you. If we can influence our children to make better decisions behind the wheel, we can literally change the world. We are a local business, founded by parents with all young drivers in mind. Your young driver probably won’t like us, but that is OK. Raising good, healthy children is not about making friends; it’s about helping them reach adulthood so they can become the amazing humans we know they will be. My Kid’s Driving, LLC is owned and developed by Susan Hinds. Susan is a Killearn Lakes neighborhood mom with two teenagers on the road and another soon to follow. She and her husband, Phil, have lived in Killearn Lakes with their three boys, Logan, Spencer and Jacob for 18 years. While they love their beautiful community, they believe that the number of young lives that have been lost, even on our quiet streets, is unacceptable. MKD was created because they want all of our children to be safe, not a statistic.
Trina’s TidBits
By: Trina Searcy, President, KLHOA Board of Directors
My kids have been a part of my real estate career from the very beginning. They were so young when I started they didn't even realize they were coming to work with me. I have always made sure we got to do something fun when we were done showing houses. The most precious gift you can give your children is the gift of your time. Think of ways you can build in more time to spend with your kids. Here are some ideas: • Schedule a regular family outing. One family goes to a movie on a Saturday afternoon, then stops for pizza on the way home. Another athletic family schedules something active every Sunday. One week, they go for a bike ride. The next week may find everyone inline skating. What you do isn't important - but consistency is. • Find ways for one-on-one time with each child. It is important to have the whole family together. But, it's also important for each child to get some individual attention. One mom takes a
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different child with her as she runs errands. The reward, a stop for ice cream. Another busy dad gets up early on Saturday and makes breakfast for his son. • Go to your child's activities. When you get a schedule of your child's athletic games or dance performances, write them on the calendar. You don't have to go to every game, but you should be there for most of them. Kids love looking in the stands or along the sidelines to see your face.
Trina Searcy & Associates Keller Williams Town and Country Realty Tallahassee FL 850-508-0134 Direct • 850-201-4663 Office www.TrinaSearcyRealtor.com Your Real Estate Resource!Trina Searcy Broker Associate ABR, CRS, e-Pro, CHMS 2016 Tallahassee Board Of Realtors President 2011- 2014 ALC Keller Williams Leadership Council 2013-2014 Tallahassee Board of REALTORS® treasurer 2009-current Killearn Lakes HOA President 2009 ~ Keller Williams Agent of the Year! 2013-2014 Women's Council of REALTORS® VP of Membership
Do You Own A Golf Cart?
By: Lieutenant Grady Jordan Public Information Officer, Leon County Sheriff's Office
There is nothing better than Tallahassee in the spring. As the azaleas begin to bloom and the temperatures rise, more and more of our neighbors will be enjoying the outdoors. For many, that includes taking the golf cart out for a leisurely ride around the neighborhood or to visit friends. If you have a golf cart there are just a few rules you need to keep in mind. “Golf cart” means a motor vehicle that is designed and manufactured for operation on a golf course for sporting or recreational purposes and that is not capable of exceeding speeds of 20 miles per hour. In Florida there are specific golf cart laws and regulations governing the usage and construction of “street legal” golf carts. For a “street legal” golf cart you need the following: • Stop lamps, turn signal lamps, headlamps, tail lamps, parking brakes • Rearview mirrors, reflex reflectors, windshields, seat belts, and VIN’s • Must be registered and insured in accordance with current regulations • The drivers of these golf carts must have valid driver’s license If your golf cart is not registered the following rules apply: • Golf carts can only be driven on roadways designated for use by golf carts • Roads designated for golf cart use should be posted with a sign that indicates golf carts are allowed • Golf carts may not be operated on public roadways by any person under 14 years of age • If golf carts are allowed on the roads in your neighborhood they also must comply with operational and safety requirements • If you are operating a golf cart at night it should be equipped with head lights, brake lights, turn signals, and a windshield
REEN SPACE By: Jeff Caster, KLHOA Board Member
385 million years or so ago, the first trees started to grow here. Until about 50 years ago, the land we live on sustained itself, or was managed and cared for without waste. Nothing but time was taken. Plants and animals, people too, lived and died here; generation after generation. Nothing went to waste. Always, uninterrupted, a never ending and abundant supply of energy was returned back into soil so the cycle could begin again… and again. Now, even with houses, driveways, patios, and streets, the trees and land don’t produce waste. Sticks and leaves that fall from the trees can still nourish the land, and provide renourishment for the next generation of plants, animals, and people. There is plenty of time and space for nature to return this energy back to the land. Everything the trees and land produce is still useful, still valuable. Everything that’s needed to keep Killearn Lakes Plantation yards green is already here. Why throw it away? Why choose to be wasteful? For the future, in lieu of garbage bags and garbage trucks, choose a space about the size of your washer and drier (at least 15 feet from the house). In a big yard, you may want a space in front and another in back. Excess leaves that aren’t used to mulch trees and shrubs, can be become a leaf pile that will quickly decompose. Be patient. There will be no smell or attraction for pests. Next to the leaves, the sticks, cut or broken into manageable lengths, can be piled neatly. Quickly they crumble, and return energy to the soil below. Life will go on. It will be helpful to the entire community to know if you are interested or have questions or suggestions. Please contact me at jeffcaster@comcast.net or 850 294 2123.
*Florida Statutes 316.212, 316.2125, 316.2126 If you have a golf cart please keep all of these rules in mind before you drive it on the road. No matter what vehicle you drive, please obey all traffic laws and watch out for pedestrians, so we can all have a safe and happy summer. Golden Eagle is the only unit in Killearn Lakes that is a designated golf cart community. All other roads in Killearn Lakes are public roadways not designated for use by golf carts. For more information on the use of golf carts in Golden Eagle, please visit http://www.goldeneaglehoa.org/. Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
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Lake Friendly Yard By: Joe Barnett
A
s a state capital and college town, Tallahassee and especially our Killearn Lakes neighborhood, is filled with experts. Florida’s landscape expert at the Department of Transportation, and program coordinator for the “scenic highways”, Jeff Caster, was recently elected again to the Killearn Lakes board. At work Jeff applies principles of conservation to the state’s thousands of miles of roadsides. This is good for Florida’s economy and environment. I googled his name and learned that he won the 2008 state landscape award for wildflower and butterfly gardens. Almost immediately, I called and asked if I could bicycle to his home so he could give me some suggestions for our Killearn Lakes Friendly Yards program. Jeff took me to his garden refuge, or – “outside man-cave” as one friend thinks of it. It’s across the street on the vacant lot he and Mimi purchased ten years ago. There was a chill in the air and he had a small fire pit. Near the fire was a section of gate decorated with an old shovel and horseshoes from his old home place. There was a big old bell and fenced garden planted with organic broccoli, peppers, and tomatoes. Milkweed planted on the edge of the vegetable garden helps restore our declining monarch butterfly population. He had several compost piles of brush, pine needles and mulch. Fallen logs lined the paths through his forest. Nothing goes to waste and no fertilization or irrigation is required. When vines were pulled down and out from a small grove of native sparkleberry trees, it became a wonderland. Each spring they bloom with beautiful white bell shaped flowers.. His native swamp hibiscus was grown from collected seed. There’s coreopsis (our state wildflower), mushrooms, and a beautiful patch of smooth green moss. One big longleaf pine houses a pileated woodpecker nest. As an alternative to the popular but wildlife unfriendly sago palms, seeds from his native coontie palms are replanted; providing vital nourishment for the Atala butterfly. A few of the many natives growing in his garden and yard are the saw palmetto, needle palm, holly, plum,
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and blueberry. Jeff even gave me a clump of columbine wildflowers. Closer to his house Jeff showed me how he solved drainage problems and eliminated stormwater runoff using natural vegetation and contours. If everyone reduced their runoff, there would be less flooding of downhill neighbors, fewer expensive drainage projects, and our lakes would be cleaner. Jeff has a very small lawn, which means much less work, less expense,
He had several compost piles of brush, pine needles and mulch. Fallen logs lined the paths through his forest. Nothing goes to waste and no fertilization or irrigation is required. no chemicals, and more time to enjoy his refuge! We are very happy to name Jeff and Mimi Caster our Killearn Lakes Friendly Yard winners. They will receive a yard sign and $100 gift certificate. Jeff has already said he’ll donate the $100 back to the Homeowners Association, hoping it will be used to promote more Lake Friendly landscapes. If your yard or neighbors use minimal or no fertilizer and avoid invasive plants like the popcorn tree and coral ardisia, please contact the Killearn Lakes office or me at jdbarnettgums@hotmail.com. Also, several residents have requested that the Killearn Lakes nature trails be rebuilt. If you are interested in helping please contact me.
As you prepare your flowerbeds this spring, you may be facing a quandary: to mulch or not to mulch? Consider these pros and cons of this common garden add-on to decide if it belongs in your yard this year.
Benefits of Mulch • Mulch blocks the sun. This helps protect plant roots from heat damage and prevents weeds from taking hold. • Freezing, melting and refreezing water can cause heaving, which is when shallow-rooted plants pop out of the ground. Mulch lessens this effect and can help your perennials make it to next spring. • As the ground gradually warms up in early spring, perennials start to bloom. Mulch slows this ground-heating process so late-winter warmth doesn't trick flowers into blooming before it's really time. • Using mulch slows evaporation from the soil so your plants soak up more of the water you give them. This makes mulch a cost effective investment, especially in dry climates, by saving you time, money and water. • Mulch helps prevent the soil around your plants from eroding during heavy rainfall.
Drawbacks of Mulch • Blocking sunlight to the soil can prevent seeds from germinating. Tip: if you're applying mulch in the spring, wait until after seedlings have emerged. • Plant-eating slugs and earwigs enjoy the cool, dark shelter mulch provides. Tip: only apply a thin layer of mulch 3 to 5 inches away from plant stems if pests become a problem.
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• Slowing down the ground-heating process in spring may cause some flowers to bloom too late. Tip: rake back mulch to encourage perennials to bloom, and then recover the area once the plants are established. • Reduced evaporation isn't always a good thing. If the weather is wet for several days straight, the soil could remain soggy and damage your plants' roots. Tip: rake mulch away from your plants during prolonged rainy periods to promote better drying.
Choosing and Applying Mulch Since it's possible to overcome pretty much every drawback of mulch in most situations, you may decide it's right for your bed cover. To ensure you don't regret your decision, choose your mulch wisely and apply it properly: • Choose product to promote healthy soil. Pine straw is a great resource in our area which makes it a very popular choice. Stone and gravel are other options, but don't expect them to improve the soil's composition. • A 3- to 4-inch layer of mulch is plenty for most applications. • You can apply mulch at any time of year. Just be mindful of the way it slows the ground-heating process in the spring and prevents heaving in the winter. If you need help preparing your garden for another growing season, please contact The Grounds Guys®. We provide many landscaping services, including spring clean-up services, to help you achieve your most beautiful garden yet.
Granny's Suet Recipe By: Laura Hansen
1 lb. Lard (not shortening) 16 oz. jar crunchy peanut butter 2 lb. bag corn meal (not self-rising) 2 lb. bag all-purpose flour 1 cup raisins 1 cup bird seed (you can just use a mix with fruit and nuts) I hope you enjoy the picture of the Indigo Bunting that comes to visit me in March-April. All the winter birds love this suet recipe. Pine Warblers, Yellow-throated Warblers and even Catbirds are some of my favorites to watch. These birds don't usually come to the feeder.
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
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KLP Aquatic Plant Management By: Charlie Mesing
Killearn Lakes Plantation (KLP) chain of lakes, Arrowhead, Pine Hill, Petty Gulf, Blue Heron, and Monkey Business, have experienced increased storm-water runoff for more than 25 years. Residential and commercial stormwater have contributed to expanded aquatic vegetation in all our lakes. Our KLP Fish and Wildlife Committee and Board have used triploid grass carp and selective herbicides to maintain low levels of aquatic vegetation for esthetics and economic reasons. FDA approved herbicides are used in extreme infestations of exotic plants, hydrilla, water hyacinths, elephant ears, and alligator weed. Aquatic plant management is one of the most important and costly issues the KLP HOA addresses annually. Below is a summary for each lake. Lake Arrowhead has dense green algae blooms and poor water quality. In December 2014, holding ponds for the Bannerman development “over flowed” discharging significant stormwater into Lake Arrowhead. Leon County officials treated the holding ponds with “alum” to confine the sediments. Green water color in 2016 has returned however, future fish kills are possible from dense microscopic algae growth unless all stormwater is treated and “aeration” is installed to help recycle nutrients. Threadfin shad, bluegill, redear sunfish a/k/a shellcracker, black crappie, and largemouth bass comprise the fish community. This small front lake has a dock and a good fishery for bass and bream. Lake Pine Hill has the best water quality of all KLP lakes and a diverse fish community. There are no major problematic aquatic plant problems at this time. A few water hyacinths were spotted in February 2016. Annual exotic herbicide treatments will control these nuisance exotic aquatic plants. Largemouth bass and bluegill are abundant although a few 5-6 lb fish have been recently caught. Triploid grass carp were stocked in 2014 to control aquatic plants. There is parking, a dock, and boat ramp for anglers. Pine Hill receives the least amount of local stormwater runoff. Lake Petty Gulf has experienced significant invasions of the exotic plant “hydrilla” since 1999. Hydrilla reappeared in 2014 and spread throughout Lake Petty Gulf by May 2015. As a result, a 2015 lake-wide herbicide (Sonar) treatment has controlled the hydrilla. Triploid grass carp should control hydrilla re-growth for 4-5 years. Water hyacinths have been treated annually since they first appeared. The fish population is comprised of largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish a/k/a shellcracker, brown bullhead catfish, and threadfin shad.
Lake Blue Heron has experienced severe “filamentous algae” outbreaks due to “high nutrients inflows” and shallow water. The lake bottom has been covered with filamentous algae periodically from 2007-2015. Attempts to control filamentous algae, has resulted in limited success. In spring/summer /fall of 2015, several techniques were implemented to reduce filamentous algae including blue dye, multiple herbicides, and releasing 300 extra triploid grass carp. Cost shared (KLP and GE) herbicide treatments occurred in March/August/September in selected 15-20 acre sections. Initial results were very positive. The fish population is comprised of bream, black crappie and largemouth bass. Spring 2015 samples indicated that many bass were skinny and threadfin shad numbers were low probably related to the filamentous algae dominance. KLP HOA will develop a filamentous algae plan for Blue Heron for 2016. Lake Monkey Business is the site of our KLP Annual Kids Fishing Contest. Each year, 500 hatchery largemouth bass (8- 10 inches) are stocked into a netted area. Several bass are tagged for raffle prizes during the contest. The 2016 Kids fishing event is scheduled for April 30th. There are plenty of bluegill, redear sunfish a/k/a shellcracker, black crappie, and largemouth bass for anglers. There were trophy-sized bass observed in our 2015 spring fish samples. Each year a few large fish are tagged and released into the net for young anglers to catch and possibly win the Grand Prize. There are no major aquatic plant issues in Lake Monkey Business at this time. There is plenty of parking for residents and two docks for shoreline fishing. Managing aquatic plants in all KLP lakes continues to be challenging and costly due to increased commercial and residential development in the KLP as well as commercial development of Bradfordville. Please do not discard any aquatic plants from your small back yard ponds and always check your trailer for plant fragments before launching boats in KLP lakes.
FareShare Mixed Berry Pie with Phyllo Crust By: Secrets of Healthy Cooking
Ingredients: 10 sheets 9 × 14-inch frozen phyllo dough Nonstick cooking spray 1 quart fresh strawberries, washed and cut into pieces the size of the raspberries 2 cups fresh blueberries 1 pint fresh raspberries
Directions: 1. Defrost phyllo dough in refrigerator for 3 hours or overnight. 2. Preheat oven to 425°. Divide phyllo in half. One half will be the bottom crust and the remaining half will be for the top crust. 3. Spray a 9-inch pie plate with nonstick cooking spray. Place a leaf of phyllo in the pie plate and spray it. Top with another sheet of phyllo and spray. Repeat this procedure with the first half of the phyllo. 4. Mix all the berries together and place in pie plate. 5. Cut the remaining phyllo into 1-inch strips and toss together. Place on top of fruit. Spray with nonstick cooking spray. 6. Place in preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until crust is golden. If your crust gets too brown before 20 minutes, you can cover it with a sheet of aluminum foil. 16
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Personal Safety:
Flashlight and Lighting Techniques By: Lt. Charlie Strickland
the car so you can check your mirrors or backup camera. Have a flashlight handy. Speaking of flashlights, you need one, and I don’t mean the ones with two D-cell batteries. I mean a good tactical light with an LED bulb. Find one that has 100 lumens (light intensity) or more and uses lithium batteries so they won’t die sitting on the shelf. Lithium batteries will sit for 10 years without dying or corroding - that’s what you want to have - Lt. Col Dave Grossman nearby. Tactical flashlights are generally aluminum or plastic, and the LED versions will provide bright light without killing the batteries too I want to share a story with you from my childhood. When I was quickly. Some make good impact weapons and many have pocket clips 9 years old, I read a book called “The Mothman Prophecies” about a on them so you can carry them anywhere. large creature that would swoop down at night and take people. I didn’t If you go outside, take the flashlight and use it. It might be better do well in the dark outside after that….for a while. At 9 years old, I was to call 911 and wait, but you probably won’t call every time you hear a afraid of what walked the night; at 49, I still like a bright flashlight, but noise. When you use a flashlight, shine it in the dark shadows, or what whatever evil walks the night should now fear me. we call “holes”. These are where threats might be. A bright flashlight in After being a law enforcement officer for 25 years, 17 of which I the eyes of a bad guy may give you a moment to escape because his eyes spent on the SWAT team, I have learned a couple of things about the are adjusted to the dark. If he dark because most of my career grabs you, hold the flashlight like has been spent in the dark, clearing a knife and pound him about the buildings, homes and woods. I If you hear something in your head and eyes until you can get know from years of experience that away. The combination of lighting is the key to feeling secure house, you’re better to keep aggression and bright light should at night. Knowing how to leverage the light off in the room have a profound effect. light to your advantage is an One last pointer: when important element of personal you’re in and turn on the moving around a corner, stay as far safety. Bad guys don’t like the light. light in the room you want back from that corner as possible. In your home at night, be This gives you a reactionary gap aware of how light and your to see into. space between you and anyone windows interact. During the who might be in the shadows daytime, the inside of your home trying to reach you. Whether this is darker than the outside so you is a doorway or the hood of your car, use this distance to buy yourself can see out, but people can’t see in. At night, the reverse is true. Walk some time. There is a whole series of free videos on low-light personal outside after dark and look back at your home. Can you see inside? Even safety tactics at www.TalonTraining.com. though you can only see your reflection when you’re inside, someone Stay safe and don’t let your kids read or watch anything with could easily sit outside in the dark and watch you without you knowing. Mothman in the title. Own the night! Turning on more lights inside won’t help; you’re giving everyone a free Fear not the night. Fear that which walks the night. And I am that which walks the night. But, only evil need fear me…. And gentle souls sleep safe in their beds... Because I walk the night.
peek inside while you see nothing. The better solution is to turn on your outside lights and make the inside of your house dark, giving you the advantage. By the way, sheer curtains make this effect worse, not better. If you hear something in your house, you’re better to keep the light off in the room you’re in and turn on the light in the room you want to see into. Step back into the shadows to protect yourself while looking into the lit area for information. Your car windows have worse reflectivity than your home. At night, if you sit with your dome light on the whole world can see in, but you see nothing. Anyone can walk up to you and you won’t see them. Drive around with your headlights on and scan your area; don’t stay in the car long. If you need to sit, leave your headlights on, lock your doors and leave the engine running. Before you get out of the car, put the car in reverse for a moment or hit your brakes to illuminate anything behind
Lt. Charlie Strickland is a 25 year veteran law enforcement officer and Watch Commander at the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. He has served in and supervised a number of units in his time there from the Robbery Task Force, Violent Crimes Unit, Patrol, Training, Field Training and Special Operations to Traffic and Motor Unit. He served as the SWAT Team Leader and spent 17 years on the team. He serves as the Agency Armorer, and a High Liability Instructor. He holds an B.S. and an MBA from Florida State University and is a Co-Owner and CEO of Talon Training Group, Talon Holsters, and the Talon Range in Midway, Florida along with JD Johnson. Talon boasts around 2,000 members and has trained over 5,000 locals in firearms safety and personal safety. Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
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Lakes View / Issue 76/ April 2016
îƒźomasville Road Planning Study The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is working on a study to explore additional highway capacity alternatives to relieve current and anticipated traffic congestion along the Thomasville Road/ Capital Circle Northeast (SR 61/US 319) corridor, including the interchanges with Interstate 10 (I-10). The project limits extend from Metropolitan Boulevard to the Bannerman Road/ Bradfordville Road intersection. Alternatives being considered include: adding travel lanes to SR 61 (US 319) in the northbound and southbound directions, improving the existing roadway network east of Thomasville Road, and constructing a new roadway on a new alignment. Secondary purposes include expediting multi-modal travel along the corridor while allowing safe movement of vehicle, pedestrian and bicycle traffic. This project involves coordination with the Capital Region
Transportation Planning Agency (CRTPA), Blueprint 2000, TallahasseeLeon County Planning Department, other project stakeholders and other roadway projects in the area. The study is nearing completion. Alternatives that meet the purpose and need of the study will be carried forward for a more in-depth analysis in future projects. Current project information can be found on the project website at http://www.nwflroads.com/FutureProjects.shtm and scrolling down to Leon County. Contact information for the project manager can also be found on both the project home page, and the Contact Us page of the website. Representatives from the project team will be giving a project update at the Killearn Lakes Homeowners Association Open Member Meeting on May 10, 2016.
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
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2016 KLHOA Kids Fishing Contest Rules SATURDAY, APRIL 30, 2016 All Killearn Lakes Homeowners’ Association members in good standing are invited to participate, so bring your kids out to Lake Monkey Business for a day of great fun, food and prizes! The rules for the contest are listed below.
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The fishing contest is open to all Killearn Lakes residents ages 16 and under and their guests. Parents can assist their children only. Please let the kids do the fishing! The contest begins at 8:00 a.m. and ends at noon. Fishing within the netted area is available in shifts, from either 8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. or from 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. The netted area is open to all contestants from 11:00 a.m. - noon. GREEN is designated for the 8:00 to 9:30 time slot. RED is designated for the 9:30 to 11:00 time slot. There are approximately 50 tagged fish within the netted area. If a tagged fish is caught, you are guaranteed a prize. (You can only win one prize regardless of the number of tagged fish you may catch.) If you catch a tagged fish, locate one of the Fish and Wildlife Committee volunteers or bring it to the tent in order for your catch to be logged. Please DO NOT remove tags from the fish. Prizes will be awarded for tagged fish only, with the exception of the biggest (by weight) fish of the day. The child who catches the biggest fish wins the grand prize. If you would like your fish considered for The Biggest Fish of the Day Contest bring it to the tent to have the fish weighed and logged. Any remaining prizes will be awarded by raffle. You must be present to win a raffle prize. All prizes will be awarded at the culmination of the contest
Casting Contest Rules If you cast a plug into the ring, your name goes into a drawing for a limited number of prizes. The Killearn Lakes Homeowners’ Association Fish and Wildlife Committee recommends a catch and release of all bass. We provide worms and some fishing tackle (bobbers and hooks) during the event. We do not have the resources to provide fishing poles to participants. So please remember to bring your own rod and reel to the fishing contest. It doesn’t take much of an investment. A decent rod and reel combo can be purchased for around $25.00. And as a young girl with a Barbie fishing pole can attest, you don’t need any fancy equipment to catch a large fish. We try to make catching a fish as easy as we can, which is why we use the net and place so many fish inside the netted area. Our main purpose is to encourage our young folks to learn to fish and experience the thrill of actually landing a bass. Most importantly,
HAVE FUN!!! Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org
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Master Builder Best Practices Presents:
A Successful Renovation Requires a Pre-Construction Meeting By: Mark Worley
Working with an experienced and well-respected builder will help ensure that things go as smoothly as possible with your construction project; but before the work begins on your home remodel, here are a few points to clarify with your contractor to ensure that everyone is on the same sheet of music.
Weekly Check-Ins Establishing the expectation of holding weekly meetings will keep you up-to-date. Your contractor has eyes on every aspect of your home remodel. Spending just a few minutes together each week will keep you in the loop on all progress. I use a weekly Progress Report that is sent out each Friday by email. This report includes the following headings: • Progress made and phases completed since the last weekly report. • Schedule for the coming week (tentative projection of work). • Items that need attention. This may include anything from needed products selections by the owner, to dates and/or times the water may be turned off for plumbing connections. • Questions and Answers. This is where the builder addresses questions and concerns from the owner.
Delegate a Contact Person In cases where a critical decision must be made without prior notice, your contractor needs a designated contact person, with the best method of communication (text, cell, email). Typically, one member of the family has final say in matters of design and/or even pricing. Delegating a contact person, will save valuable time and help promote the project’s efficiency.
Photograph Everything Beforehand Taking pictures of the home’s existing condition prior to the start of the renovation can ensure that everyone is on the same page after completion. While going back over the completed renovation could
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uncover a crack or flaw that may or may not have been there previously, pictures will give everyone a reference point.
Map Things Out Messes are made when things have no place to go. The same goes for a construction site. Designate where delivery trucks should park, where materials and tools can be stored and which areas are off-limits to workers. Work hours and schedules should also be addressed.
Set Standards for Cleanliness Reputable contractors are vigilant concerning the protection of a client’s home during the construction process. Areas of the property you may not have considered, like the landscaping, should be considered and discussed. There should be a protocol for the end-of-the-day clean-up and procedures for dust-containment during the renovation process.
Keep Children and Pets Safe A construction area is dangerous and not where you want to find your child or pet. Make arrangements to keep entrances to construction zones off-limits and work with the builder to construct and maintain barricades, as needed, to avoid any accidents. Following these recommendations and procedures will help ensure a successful construction project. For a list of reputable and experienced contractors, search the members of the Tallahassee Builders Association at www.tallyba.com.
Mark S. Worley CAPS, GBP, GMB is the only Graduate Master Builder in Tallahassee and one of only 4 statewide as recognized by the National Association of Home Builders. He is a past president of the Tallahassee Builders Association. You can reach him at www.worleyconst.com or at 850-668-3438.
Summer Reading Program 2016 By: Vic Aderhold
In June school will be over, but learning and building reading skills does not have to end. Woodland Hall Academy is offering its 40th Summer Reading Program for students 6-14 years old. This individualized program provides 38 instructional sessions of one to one tutorials and 19 small group sessions in reading comprehension and study strategies development. Studies show that reading is crucial to every child’s future. If a child is struggling to read by third grade, the statistics show that the child will be below grade level in 9th grade as well if measures are not taken to identify the problem and to remediate the reading issues. Woodland Hall Academy offers a unique program utilizing multisensorial, structured language techniques that are recognized nationally. Because students are receiving one-to-one reading instruction, emphasis can be placed on the areas that need practice and improvement. For some students that may mean phonics, blending, and phonemic awareness which are the building blocks to reading. For other students the emphasis may be more on vocabulary development, comprehension skills, and test taking strategies. The Summer Reading Program provides 38 instructional sessions of one-to-one reading tutorials and 19 small group sessions of study skills and comprehension development. Parents may find out more information concerning the Summer Reading Program by calling Woodland Hall Academy at (850) 89302216 or go to www.woodlandhallacademy.org.
Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org 23
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Cyndy’s Ruminations By: Cyndy Reichert
“Badge 149 "Shots Fired" and Saints, Sinners, Survivors” From Law Enforcement Officer to Author If you have been following my book reviews over the past couple of years you know that my passion is towards fictional mysteries. Well, for this issue of the Lakesview I'm going to drift away from my comfort zone to introduce you to a local author from right here in Killearn Lakes. Gary P. Jones was a law enforcement officer in Florida for more than 36 years; first with the Fort Lauderdale Police Department where he retired at the rank of Captain after 26 years and then with the Florida Department of Insurance in the Division of Insurance Fraud; also retiring at the rank of Captain. Captain Jones has written two books since he retired; Badge 149 "Shots Fired" and "Saints, Sinners, Survivors." Both books chronicle the life of a police officer as presented through the real life experiences of Captain Jones. He joined the Fort Lauderdale Police Department in 1967 when he was just 21 years old. I think he would be the first to admit that being a "rookie" cop back in 1967 was far different than being one today. In those days you had to buy your own gun, then, basically, pick up your police uniform and hit the streets with little training. The books take you through his life patrolling the streets of Fort Lauderdale, recovering from a debilitating knee injury suffered on the job, which almost ended his career, to his exploits as a member of the elite Tactical Impact Unit which was created to combat the growing crime wave that was taking over Fort Lauderdale at the time. He introduces you to a cast of characters, both on the force and in the community, that would make a George Lucas film pale in comparison. What's really interesting about Captain Jones' writing style is he puts you in the role of a police officer and challenges you to make the correct decision/reaction to various highly intense situations. For instance, in one situation he was faced with the decision of taking deadly force against a suspect. Even though he had not actually seen a weapon, his training and instinct suggested the subject had one. And hesitating could result in the subject gaining the upper hand. Captain Jones builds the suspense before asking you to make your decision. He provides various responses and asks you to choose the proper one. At the end of the book he provides an analysis of each of the situations along with the recommended response. I think it would be safe to say, and I'm sure Captain Jones would
agree, that being a cop in the 60s, 70s, and 80s was a lot different than being a cop today. There are a number of situations he presents in his two books where the course of action taken by the officers probably would not pass muster in today's hyper-sensitive world where some questionable, though, legitimate actions would bring the scrutiny of the media. If you want to know what it's like to walk in the shoes of a cop and actually get a "feel" of the stress they experience, then I highly recommend you read Captain Jones' books. It's difficult to offer you a formal review of the books since they are really a compendium of many short stories. The best way I can explain to you the roller-coaster ride he will take you on as he and his partners pursue the various suspects is to imagine yourself viewing the scene as if the officers were wearing GoPro cameras on their caps during the pursuit. That's the feeling you get as Captain Jones takes you on this journey through his career. I can't conclude this article without mentioning that Captain Jones is also a Law Enforcement Ambassador assisting with fundraising for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund and the National Law Enforcement Museum that is being built in Washington D.C. Some of the proceeds from the sale of his books are dedicated to the Fund. The NLEOMF works to increase public support and awareness of the law enforcement profession. He asks that you visit their web-site at www.nleomf.org for more information and possibly make a donation to their cause. On a personal note; we are fortunate to have a number of both retired and current law enforcement officers living in the Killearn Lakes community. All of whom deserve a great big THANK YOU!
Co-ops Launch Non-partisan Voter Engagement Program By: Kim Gay
America’s electric cooperatives have launched a non-partisan, 11 states – didn’t even face an opponent in the general election . nationwide effort, Co-ops Vote, to promote civic engagement and voter “Elections aren’t won and lost in November anymore,” Connor participation in the communities they serve. said. “They’re really decided in primaries months sooner, when fewer Jeffrey Connor, interim CEO of the National Rural Electric voters recognize the opportunity to vote, fewer participate and only a Cooperative Association, unveiled the Co-ops Vote program at the handful of issues are up for debate.” This results in a Congress where association’s 74th annual meeting recently. “Through Co-ops Vote, we more members represent the extremes of each political party and are want to help our Members know when elections are, what’s at stake less inclined to seek compromise and bipartisan solutions to problems. and how to make their voices “The electric cooperative heard,” Connor said. “Who movement has always been nonfolks vote for isn’t really as partisan, and our communities “Elections aren’t won and lost are facing too many challenges important as the fact that they do vote.” to have a government crippled in November anymore,” Connor The Co-ops Vote initiative by bickering,” Coleman said. said. “They’re really decided in “When our parents and will focus on issues that are important to the health and grandparents set out to electrify primaries months sooner...” prosperity of communities rural America, they didn’t have served by electric cooperatives. time to ask the person next to Electric cooperatives are them about their views on perfectly designed to help address these important issues. Co-op economic or social policy. Their economic policy was ‘we need to save Members can make politics ‘local’ again because civic engagement is this community’ and their social policy was ‘let’s do it together.’ I hope part of our DNA. the Co-ops Vote program can help rekindle that spirit of cooperation.” A new website, vote.coop, offers co-op Members information on Talquin Electric is doing its part to support this national effort. the voter registration process in their state, dates of elections, The Gadsden County Supervisor of Elections’ Office will host a booth information on the candidates running in those elections, and at Talquin’s upcoming Annual Meeting where Members from all four explanations of the eight key issues the campaign aims to address. In counties can register to vote. The Annual Meeting will be held on April keeping with its non-partisan goals, the initiative will not be endorsing 30 at East Gadsden High School’s gymnasium, where Members are specific candidates for office. encouraged to exercise their right to vote for the leadership of their Mel Coleman, president of NRECA and CEO of North Arkansas cooperative. Electric Cooperative, said the program would help ensure the voices of As a cooperative, our number one priority is improving the quality rural Americans are heard. “We want to make sure our government of life for those we serve. An engaged community is going to be a knows that rural America matters,” Coleman said. “This campaign isn’t healthier one. “At Talquin, we understand how important affordable about divisive, partisan issues. It’s about real people in real places facing and reliable utility services are for our communities,” Tracy Bensley, real challenges. It’s about our co-ops living out the principles of our General Manager of Talquin Electric, said. “Our Members can help movement: Concern for community and democratic control.” ensure a secure future for our co-op through their participation in Connor cited partisan gridlock in Washington, the explosive elections.” growth of money in politics and the effects of gerrymandering as For more information about Co-ops Vote and the impact of important reasons for launching the program. In 2014, 318 of 435 these key issues on the people of Gadsden, Leon, Liberty and Wakulla House races had a margin of victory of 20 points or more , and 30 counties, contact Talquin Electric at (850) 627-7651 or visit House candidates – 16 Democrats and 14 Republicans representing vote.coop. 26 Lakes View / Issue 76/ April 2016
Designated printer of the “Lakes View” Magazine
een Corner Classifieds PET SITTING AND DOG WALKING – Pet Sitting and Dog Walking Day or Night Call Karlee Jones at 933-1610. BABYSITTERS – Experienced 12-year-old Sitter and Mothers Helper. Prefer watching ages 4-9yrs. I love kids and I am very responsible. Bonus: household jobs such as folding laundry, dishes or tidy up your home. $3-5/hour. Available weekdays from 4-8 p.m. Sat. 10:30-4:30 p.m. and Sun. 1-8 p.m. Summer hours are more flexible. Can provide my own transportation. Call Emily at (850) 894-0421. BABYSITTER – Reliable and experienced 13 year old; certified as babysitter by American Red Cross. Available most times during the summer and nights/weekends during the school year. Can provide my own transportation. Please call (850) 508-6819. BABYSITTER & PETSITTER – Hello my name is Nina, and I am 18 years old.. I'm responsible, good with kids and I can also dog sit! Please Contact me at: (850)228-3669.
BABYSITTER – You do so much for your kids you need a break. I am an experienced 12 year old babysitter. I am CPR trained, American Red Cross certified, reliable, and most of all fun! I am available weekdays 4-7:30 p.m and weekends at any time. I will babysit ages 1-9 and will also babysit babies or toddlers with permission from my parents. Please call Molly Siddall at (850)4459143. BABYSITTER – Experienced, Mature and Responsible recent Chiles Graduate is available for babysitting. Reasonable rates. References available. Call Susanne Childers at (850) 459-4647. BABYSITTER
Hi! My name is Katelyn McClellan and I am 19 years old. I am great with kids and have babysitting experience. I prefer to babysit kids 4 & older. I live in Golden Eagle and I have a car so I can drive to your house to babysit. Please Call :). My phone number is : (850) 228-6339.
Note: These ads are complimentary and available to student teens of our community involved in weekend and after school entrepreneurial projects. Ads must be renewed for each issue. Please call the office at 668-3231, if you want to edit or continue your ad. Thank you. Be sure to register as a member at www.killearnlakeshoa.org 27
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