Villages News Summary
>>> UPDATE - DECEMBER 28, 2019
Going forward, this page will not be updated as it seems to be a duplication of effort. Please see these great Villages resources
for Non-Palo Alto event:
Going forward, this page will not be updated as it seems to be a duplication of effort. Please see these great Villages resources
for Non-Palo Alto event:
OPPORTUNITY - starting March 2019, 'District Weekly' opportunities are also now shown at:
THINGS TO DO > Non-Palo Alto Events Web page on our Web site so that all non-Palo Alto Events are on the same Web page.
THINGS TO DO > Non-Palo Alto Events Web page on our Web site so that all non-Palo Alto Events are on the same Web page.
|
July 25, 2018 was the last Welcome Wednesday bulletin. Replacing those reports are news from Joan Testa, Jerry Coomans and reviews of bulletins that seem to affect us more directly by Susan Riding, your loyal Webmaster.
|
District 1 Link: https://districtgov.org/yourdistrict/districtMapDetail.aspx?district=1 (you can sign-up for notifications here, too)
District 2 Link: https://districtgov.org/yourdistrict/front.aspx?district=2 Recreation Events:- a DistrictGov.org Web page that you may find helpful. It has a a wealth of information & related links |
Sign up for E-Notifications
The summarizations below do not include all E-Notification news nor all of the details on any shown. To get the E-Notifications to your own email address, go to the www.districtgov.org - The 'District Weekly Bulletin' is a very good resource. |
September through December 2019 - E-Notifications / District Weekly Notifications
Holidays
Closures (just those more directly affecting Palo Alto)
Holidays
- Thanksgiving Holidays:
All recreation centers, offices, District offices, fitness clubs and boat tours will be closed on Thursday, November 28, 2019. The outdoor facilities and swimming pools will be open for your enjoyment. While the offices will remain closed on Friday, November 29, 2019, the recreation centers and fitness clubs will reopen. Friday, November 29, 2019 through Sunday, December 1, 2019 – Guest ID Card, Trail Fee and Activity registration services will be available from 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. at La Hacienda, Lake Miona, Eisenhower & Rohan Regional Recreation Centers.
Closures (just those more directly affecting Palo Alto)
- El Santiago Shuffleboard Courts will be closed for resurfacing Friday, October 11, 2019 through Sunday, November 3, 2019.
- Del Mar Gate The project to improve the Del Mar gate access is currently ahead of schedule and is anticipated to be completed before the end of September.
- The Paradise Dog Park will be closed for maintenance September 16th through September 20th.
- The Paradise Archery Range will be closed for maintenance September 3rd through October 4th.
- The Savannah Recreation Center will be closed for cleaning September 22nd.
- Executive Golf Course Closings / Reopenings
Due to the 25 inches of rain we have received in the past few months, there are 12 Executive Golf Courses closed to aid in moving water and lowering storm water basin levels. This is part of the planned infrastructure for storm water management. The following courses are closed until further notice while our efforts continue for public safety.
- De La Vista- reopened Sept. 11, 2019
- Chula Vista - reopened Sept. 12, 2019
- Palmetto - reopened Sept. 13, 2019
- Silver Lake - reopened Sept. 13, 2019
- Mira Mesa - reopened Sept. 16, 2019
- Mangrove - reopened Sept. 18, 2019
- Oakleigh - reopened Sept. 26, 2019
- Pelican - reopened Oct. 23, 2019
- Hill Top - will reopen Nov. 20, 2019 - Paradise Dog Park - temporarily closed Dec. 16-20, 2019 for quarterly maintenance.
Remaining Closed: These remain closed with no reopen date set yet: Heron, Sweet Gum, and Amberwood Executive Golf Courses will remain closed until further notice for cart path renovation.
If you have any questions or need additional information, please call the District Executive Golf Maintenance Office at 352-674-1885. We appreciate your patience and understanding.
August 2019 - E-Notifications / District Weekly Notifications
Closures
Closures
- Road Closure: Del Mar Gate
The entry gate into Del Mar from Avenida Central will be closed beginning Monday, September 9, 2019 until the end of September 2019 to allow for improvements to the gate entrance. The project will include improvements including pavement widening for the addition of another vehicle entry lane, keypad, gate actuator, pavement striping, curbing, and sidewalk improvements. A closure detour will be posted during the performance of the work to direct traffic. The exit gate from Del Mar will remain open during the performance of this work with some temporary maintenance of traffic during the project. Please use caution in this area and pay attention to all traffic control devices installed including directional and detour signage. If you have any questions, please contact District Property Management at 352-753-4022. Please stay tuned to www.DistrictGov.org for additional updates.
source: e-Notification Date: 8/29/2019
- Executive Golf Course Closings as of Aug. 28, 2019
Executive Golf Course Closings Due to the 25 inches of rain we have received in the past two months, there are 15 Executive Golf Courses closed to aid in moving water and lowering storm water basin levels. This is part of the planned infrastructure for storm water management. The following courses are closed until further notice while our efforts continue for public safety.
|
Hill Top
Silver Lake Palmetto Sweetgum Sandhill Turtle Mound Amberwood Heron Pelican Chula Vista Mira Mesa Volusia - will reopen Monday, September 2, 2019 Oakleigh De La Vista |
|
If you have any questions or need additional information, please call the District Executive Golf Maintenance Office at 352-674-1885. We appreciate your patience and understanding.
|
July 2019 - E-Notifications / District Weekly Notifications
Opportunity
Did You Know?
Closures
Opportunity
- Game On! - See Non-Palo Alto Events page
Did You Know?
- Multi Modal Path Signs The Multi Modal Path Discussion Group Guide Sign project is under construction. Starting Monday, July 1, 2019, the contractor will be onsite to commence installation of the new multi-modal trail guide signs on the new posts they previously installed. Completion of the project is expected in August 2019.
- New Practice Green - Construction began last week on a brand new practice green that will serve residents and guests playing the Bogart and Bacall Executive courses. We appreciate your patience during this process and we look forward to opening this new green for play at the end of the summer.
Closures
- Executive Golf Course Closings - For public safety, the District will be closing Hill Top, Silver Lake, Chula Vista and Mira Mesa Executive Golf Courses until further notice for water management implementations due to excessive rain. The movement of water from one area to another helps the District ensure the integrity of our holding capabilities throughout the various water retention basins. Questions call the District Executive Golf Maintenance Office at 352-674-1885.
- La Hacienda Recreation Center will be temporarily closed for cleaning on Saturday, July 6. It will remain open for guest pass and trail fee services from 8 a.m. until noon. Questions - contact the La Hacienda Recreation Center at 753-1716.
- Laurel Manor Regional Recreation Center will be closed for renovations beginning Monday, July 1, 2019 through Sunday, August 4, 2019. All outdoor facilities will remain open until Sunday, July 21, 2019 when they will be closed through August 4th. Questions - contact Recreation Administration at 352-674-1800.
May 2019 - E-Notifications / District Weekly Notifications
Opportunity
Memorial Day Holiday
Closures
Opportunity
- FITNESS CLUBS SUMMER Celebration Special! Purchase this 3-month ($100) special ANYTIME between June 1st and August 31st. It will take effect on the date of purchase and run 3 months from that date. TAX INCLUDED www.DistrictGov.org. To sign up, visit the following Recreation Centers: Mulberry Grove I Laurel Manor (751-7101 - our nearest) I Colony Cottage I SeaBreeze I Rohan I Fenney
Memorial Day Holiday
- The District Customer Service Center and all District Administrative Offices will be closed on Monday, May 27, 2019 in observance of Memorial Day. We will resume normal business hours on Tuesday, May 28, 2019. For additional information, please contact the Customer Service Center at (352) 753-4508.
- All recreation offices will be closed on Memorial Day, Monday, May 27, 2019. The recreation centers, outdoor facilities, swimming pools and fitness clubs will be open as usual. Guest ID Cards, Executive Trail Fees and Activity Registration will be available at La Hacienda, Lake Miona, Eisenhower and Rohan Regional Recreation Centers from 8:00am to 12:00pm on Monday, May 27, 2019 . Regular office hours will resume Tuesday, May 28, 2019.
If you have any questions or need further information contact your nearest recreation center or call 352-674-1800.
Closures
- Hill Top and Silver Lake Executive Golf Courses will be closed on Thursday, May 16, 2019 until further notice for water management implementations. Questions: District Executive Golf Maintenance Office at 352-674-1885.
- Chula Vista Executive Golf Course will be closed on Friday, May 17, 2019 until further notice for water management implementations. Questions: District Executive Golf Maintenance Office at 352-674-1885.
- Sweet Gum (scheduled to open Mon., June 3) and Tarpon Boil (scheduled to open Wed., June 12) are closed for repairs. Questions: District Executive Golf Course Maintenance at 352-674-1885.
- Bogart, Mangrove, and Redfish Run Executive Golf Courses are closed until further notice for repairs. Questions: District Executive Golf Course Maintenance at 352-674-1885.
- Paradise Dog Park - will be temporarily closed for quarterly maintenance from Monday, June 17, 2019 through Friday, June 21, 2019. Questions - call Paradise Recreation Center at 352-753-0637.
April 2019 - E-Notifications / District Weekly Notifications
Opportunity
Closures
- The Enrichment Academy
Interested in becoming an Instructor or a Speaker for The Enrichment Academy? RECRUITMENT is Apr. 26 / 9a OR Apr. 30 / 5:30p at Lake Miona Recreation Center 1526 Buena Vista Blvd ., The Villages 32162 - House Check Program by Community Watch
One of the important services that Community Watch provides is the House Check Program. For a fee of $5.35 a week, we will send a patrol driver to your home; we get out and do a walk around the property to ensure everything is as it should be. If you have any questions or would like additional information, please contact Community Watch at (352) 753-0550.
Full details on https://www.districtgov.org/PDFView/PDFMeeting.aspx?id=20190424001301
Closures
- Tierra Del Sol Recreation Center
In our efforts to keep the recreation facilities in optimal condition, the Tierra Del Sol Recreation Center will be temporarily closed for cleaning on Saturday, April 13, 2019. Questions - contact the Tierra Del Sol Recreation Center at 352-753-4412. - Tarpon Boil and Red Fish Executive Golf Courses
In our [The Villages] efforts to keep the infrastructure for the Executive Golf Courses in optimal condition, the Tarpon Boil and Red Fish Executive Golf Courses will be closed until further notice.
|
Amenity Fee Changes - Amenity Authority Committee Decision
At the Amenity Authority Committee meeting held on April 10, by a vote of 3 to 2, it was decided that the Amenity Fee Deferral rate will be eliminated. From a given starting point - 'each year, each home’s amenity fee is adjusted according to the Consumer Price Index (many times somewhere in the vicinity of 2% so residents who paid $140 last year and the CPI is 2%, then the next payment would be $140 + 2% so $142.80). For more information, please contact: - Joan Testa, VHA V.P. North [email protected] (817) 247-9677 and / or - Bill Hunt [π] (352) 259-4803 [email protected] and / or - The Villages |
February 2019 - E-Notifications / District Weekly Notifications
Closures
- Mar. 5-24 - Saddlebrook Tennis and Pickleball Courts will be closed for fence and net replacement
- Smoke Detector Program - see RESOURCES > VILLAGES NEWS SUMMARY > FYI Keepers Web page for details
- Paradise Dog Park will be temporarily closed for quarterly maintenance Mon., Feb. 25 through Fri., Mar. 1
January 2019 - E-Notifications / District Weekly Notifications
OPPORTUNITY
- 2019 - January & February - Recreation & Parks Events - see Non-Palo Alto Events image of flyer
- Sat., Jan. 12 - Running of the Squares – Lake Sumter Landing 5K Join us for the second race of our 10th Anniversary of the Running of
the Squares. Pick-up a registration form at any recreation center and return with payment to La Hacienda Regional Recreation Center.
More info / links: www.districtgov.org/PDFView/PDFMeeting.aspx?id=20190102001301
FYI
- Safety Notes - the Jan. 16 Weekly District Bulletin reminds us of these two important safety considerations - you can find them plus Biking Safety on our Palo Alto Web site anytime at:
- RESOURCES > TO OUR HEALTH >
Roundabouts
Golf Car Rules of the Road
Biking Rules of the Road - Golf Cart Parking - The installation of a parking area for golf carts at the retention pond near El Camino Real and Morse Boulevard is available for residents to utilize. We appreciate your cooperation in parking in the designated area to preserve the grass and landscaping in that area.
- Executive Golf Course Closures In our efforts to keep the infrastructure protected and functioning correctly, we utilize our executive golf courses for water management and movement. Temporarily closed: Amberwood, Hawks Bay, Oakleigh, and Silver Lake Executive Golf Courses until further notice for the water dumping needs of weather related recovery. Schedule may be adjusted. Questions: District Executive Golf Offices at 352-753-3396
- Christmas Tree Collection Village Community Development Districts 1-11 If you live in Village Community Development Districts 1-11 in the Sumter County, Marion County or Fruitland Park portions of The Villages, discarded live Christmas trees can be placed at the curb and will be picked up with your normal Wednesday yard waste collection. Artificial trees can be placed on the curb with your regular household trash (not recycling) on your designated day. If you have any questions, please contact 352-748-0109.
- Community Watch’s House Check Program - a service available to all residents who will be leaving the area for more than seven days. Residents signing up for this program will have a patrol driver check the outside of their home three times per week. The patrol driver checks the perimeter of the house on foot and keeps an eye out for broken windows, unlocked doors, packages left at the front door, etc. Patrol drivers do not enter the home. We ask that you have a local key holder that we may contact in case of an emergency. The key holder can access your home to address problems our patrol driver has identified. The cost for this program is $5.35 a week and cash or checks are accepted. You can sign up for this program at the Community Watch office located at 1135 Bonita Boulevard. Office hours are 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday. For additional information, please contact (352) 750-8201.
- Nuisance Alligators - If an alligator enters your yard or is a nuisance in the water retention area surrounding your home, you can report it to District Property Management at 352-753-4022.
- Tierra Del Sol Recreation Center - In our efforts to keep the recreation facilities in optimal condition, the Tierra Del Sol Recreation Center will be temporarily closed for total facility cleaning on Saturday, January 12, 2019.
December 2018 - E-Notifications / District Weekly Notifications
Opportunity
- Dec. 10-14, 2018 - Holiday Sights & Sounds Week - sounds like fun. Bring your resident ID and receive a 'Touring Post Card' when you visit each of these regional rec centers. See details below. (By The Villages Recreation and Parks Dept)
- Mid-December - Camp Villages Holiday Week - more info as we have it.
FYI
- Starting Dec. 27, 2018 - Registration for [Non-Palo Alto Club] Monthly Socials Available Online - registration for the monthly socials will be available online, in addition to walk-in registration at all regional recreation centers. For online registration follow these easy steps:
5) Click on Registration. 6) View the month’s social offerings. 7) Create an account or login.
8) Register for the socials of your choosing.
For questions or assistance, please call Recreation Administration at 352-674- 1800.
Source: https://www.districtgov.org/PDFView/PDFMeeting.aspx?id=20181226001301
- As the number of residents increase in The Villages this time of year, protecting yourself and others when travelling throughout the community at night.
- When walking or biking, wear light and reflective clothing so you can be seen
- Carry a flashlight or other flashing light
- When enjoying the multi-modal paths, SHARE the path with your fellow Villagers.
- Review some of the additional educational and safety materials at: www.DistrictGov.org (including safety on the multi-modal
paths and on golf carts). The Florida Department of Transportation also has information pertaining to pedestrian and bicycle
safety as part of their Alert Today Alive Tomorrow campaign. See educational materials: Dec. 26th District Weekly Bulletin - You can download your Declaration of Restrictions from your home computer. See the instructions on the District Weekly Bulletin dated Dec. 5.
- Paradise Dog Park The Paradise Dog Park will be closed for quarterly maintenance Dec. 4 - 22.
- Rio Grande Family Pool The Rio Grande Family Pool will be closed Nov. 26-30 for maintenance.
- Recreation Center Holiday Closings:
- Monday, Dec. 24- Recreation Offices Closed, Fitness Clubs Open 6:30am1pm; Trail Fee, Guest Id & Activity Registration
services available 8am-12p at La Hacienda, Lake Miona, Eisenhower & Rohan; Centers close at 6pm.
- Tuesday, Dec. 25- Closed Monday, December 31- Recreation Centers open as usual 7am-10pm;
Fitness Clubs Open 6:30am-1pm; Resident Lifestyle Group meetings end at 1pm in preparation for New Year’s Eve Celebrations.
- Tuesday, Jan. 1- Closed
Although the recreation centers are closed the outdoor facilities and swimming pools will be
open for your enjoyment. Regular Services will resume Wednesday January 2, 2019.
November 2018 - E-Notifications / District Weekly Notifications
Opportunity
Maintenance / Closures
Opportunity
- Wild Turkey Hunt for the Grandkids - Nov. 20 / 5 pm at Truman (tickets available at Regional Rec Centers - $8 per grandchild; Grandparents must accompany grandchildren. By The Villages Recreation and Parks Department.
- Bookmark this page for current Villages events: VCDD Rec News - Sample 'Mark Your Calendar' on this page will vary with new topics. (See topics as of Nov. 2018 halfway down our RESOURCES > LINKS page)
- Fenney Putt and Play - When playing at the Fenney Putt and Play, vehicles must park in the designated parking area at Sugar Cane or Blue Heron Recreation Areas. Parking on residential roadways creates a public safety issue. We appreciate your cooperation in ensuring a pleasurable and safe experience for everyone!
- All recreation center offices will be closed on Monday, November 12 in observance of Veterans Day.
- For your safety from snakes, alligators and other hazards, ball-hawking on the golf courses is prohibited. Due to the steepness of the water basin banks, we ask that you stay on the golf course side margin of the red or yellow hazard stakes. We encourage each golfer to put safety first as it would be very easy to slip and fall due to the current low water level.
- Sumter County Roundabout Brochure - The Sumter County Board of County Commissioners in cooperation with the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office developed an educational guide to navigating the roundabouts in Sumter County. This brochure is located on www.DistrictGov.org or can be obtained at the District Customer Service Center located at 984 Old Mill Run in Lake Sumter Landing. [We also have it on our Palo Alto Web site at TO OUR HEALTH > ROUNDABOUTS Web page]
Maintenance / Closures
- Rohan Recreation Center Closure - closed for quarterly maintenance Saturday, November 24, 2018; 352-674-8400. All outside facilities and Fitness Center will remain open for use.
[There are other closures but this one particularly important for the Thanksgiving Holidays and where you may have wanted to take your visitors.]
Additional Sources: https://www.districtgov.org/PDFView/PDFMeeting.aspx?id=20181114001301
October 2018 - E-Notifications / District Weekly Notifications
Opportunities
Maintenance - Closures / Reopenings - in each case, schedule may be adjusted due to unforeseen circumstances
Opportunities
- October Outdoor Excursions The Villages Recreation and Parks Department presents Guided Fishing, Kayaking and Nature Tours on Lake Sumter! Experience Lake Sumter up close and personal!
- Kayaking – Every Thursday 8-10am / $25 pp up to 8; Oct 4, 11, 18, 25
- Nature Pontoon Tours – 1st, 3rd & 5th Fridays 8-10am / $25 pp up to 4; Oct 5, 19
- Fishing Tours – Every Saturday 8-10am / $250 up to 4; Oct 6, 12, 20, 27
- Fishing Tours – 2nd & 4th Friday 8-10am / $250 up to 4; Oct 12, 26 To register visit Eisenhower, La Hacienda, Lake Miona & Rohan Recreation Centers Monday – Friday 8:30am to 4:00pm or on-line at Districtgov.maxgalaxy.net/browse activities. - Instructions on how to sign up for E-Notifications: https://www.districtgov.org/PDFView/PDFMeeting.aspx?id=20181003001301
- Florida's Pedestrian & Bicycle Focused Iniative - https://www.alerttodayflorida.com/
Maintenance - Closures / Reopenings - in each case, schedule may be adjusted due to unforeseen circumstances
- La Hacienda Recreation Center Closure - closed all day for total facility cleaning Saturday, October 6, 2018; La Hacienda Recreation Center at 352-753-1716
- Oakleigh Executive Golf Course Closure - closed beginning Monday, October 8, 2018 for planned bunker capping and drainage repairs; anticipated to take approximately 5 (Five) days
- Amberwood Executive Golf Course Closure - closed beginning Monday, October 15, 2018 for planned bunker capping and drainage repairs; work is anticipated to take approximately 5 (Five) days
- Silver Lake Recreation Center Closure - closed for quarterly maintenance October 14, 2018; 352-753-0637
- Southside Recreation Center Closure - closed for quarterly maintenance October 21, 2018; 352-753-0637.
- Paradise Recreation Center Closure - closed for quarterly maintenance October 27, 2018; 352-753-0637.
- La Hacienda Recreation Center Sports Pool Closure - closed for sandblasting/cleaning Tuesday, October 16, 2018; 352-753-1716.
- Laurel Manor Recreation Center Closure - closed for maintenance Sunday, October 14, 2018; 352-751-7110
- Saddlebrook Recreation Center - closed for quarterly cleaning on October 14th.
- Mulberry Grove Sports Pool - closed for maintenance October 8th through November 6th.
- Multi-Modal Path Maintenance - On Friday, October 12, 2018, behind the Winn Dixie shopping plaza in Lake Sumter Landing. The work will begin from the back entrance at Winn Dixie to Tunnel M6 located under Morse Boulevard. Work is scheduled to begin at 12:00 p.m. and will be complete by the end of the day. Flagmen will be present at both ends of the repair section to assist in navigating around Winn Dixie. Please use caution and pay attention to all directional signage and flagmen.
- El Santiago Recreation Center will be closed for quarterly maintenance Sunday, October 21, 2018. 352-753-1410.
Additional sources: https://www.districtgov.org/PDFView/PDFMeeting.aspx?id=20181003001301
Sept. 2018 - E-Notifications / District Weekly Notifications
Lost & Found
Depending on where items are found, inexpensive items will be held for one month at La Hacienda, Laurel Manor, or Eisenhower Regional Recreation Centers. Valuables will be turned over to the Lady Lake Police Department, Sumter County Sheriff’s Office or Marion County Sheriff’s Office within 72 hours. At the end of each month, unclaimed items will be donated to local charities. The Recreation Department is not responsible for lost items.
Maintenance - Closures / Reopenings
- Hawkes Bay - Reopening Oct. 2.
- Amberwood to reopen on Sept. 28
- The Silver Lake Patio will be temporarily closed for painting October 4, 2018 through October 7, 2018.
- Dudley Archery Range Closure - temporarily closed for maintenance Wednesday, October 3, 2018 through Friday, October 5, 2018.
Questions call Fenney Recreation Center at 352-674-8460
- Saddlebrook Recreation Center will be temporarily closed on Sunday, October 14, 2018 for quarterly cleaning. The facility will
re-open on Monday, October 15, 2018.
- El Santiago Family Pool will be temporarily closed for sand blasting and an acid wash from Monday, September 17, 2018 to
Monday, September 24, 2018. This schedule may be adjusted due to unforeseen circumstances, including weather.
We apologize for the inconvenience. If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact the El Santiago
Recreation Center at 352-753-1410. (Sept. 10 E-Notification)
- Chatham Family Pool - The Chatham Family Pool will be closed Sept. 7 through Sept. 14 for maintenance.
- Chatham Recreation Center - The Chatham Recreation Center will be closed for quarterly cleaning Sept. 8th.
Boil Water Notice
See Aug. 29 for short review or the linked Bulletin below
Public Safety By County
Emergency management and services related to preparation for severe weather, floods, hurricanes and other disaster response activities fall under the purview of the county in which you live. Bulletin includes links to the various county offices and to State & Federal Severe Weather Information.
Lost & Found
Depending on where items are found, inexpensive items will be held for one month at La Hacienda, Laurel Manor, or Eisenhower Regional Recreation Centers. Valuables will be turned over to the Lady Lake Police Department, Sumter County Sheriff’s Office or Marion County Sheriff’s Office within 72 hours. At the end of each month, unclaimed items will be donated to local charities. The Recreation Department is not responsible for lost items.
Maintenance - Closures / Reopenings
- Hawkes Bay - Reopening Oct. 2.
- Amberwood to reopen on Sept. 28
- The Silver Lake Patio will be temporarily closed for painting October 4, 2018 through October 7, 2018.
- Dudley Archery Range Closure - temporarily closed for maintenance Wednesday, October 3, 2018 through Friday, October 5, 2018.
Questions call Fenney Recreation Center at 352-674-8460
- Saddlebrook Recreation Center will be temporarily closed on Sunday, October 14, 2018 for quarterly cleaning. The facility will
re-open on Monday, October 15, 2018.
- El Santiago Family Pool will be temporarily closed for sand blasting and an acid wash from Monday, September 17, 2018 to
Monday, September 24, 2018. This schedule may be adjusted due to unforeseen circumstances, including weather.
We apologize for the inconvenience. If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact the El Santiago
Recreation Center at 352-753-1410. (Sept. 10 E-Notification)
- Chatham Family Pool - The Chatham Family Pool will be closed Sept. 7 through Sept. 14 for maintenance.
- Chatham Recreation Center - The Chatham Recreation Center will be closed for quarterly cleaning Sept. 8th.
Boil Water Notice
See Aug. 29 for short review or the linked Bulletin below
Public Safety By County
Emergency management and services related to preparation for severe weather, floods, hurricanes and other disaster response activities fall under the purview of the county in which you live. Bulletin includes links to the various county offices and to State & Federal Severe Weather Information.
|
Source: Please contact the district office if you would like to get
on the email list to receive District Weekly Bulletins and E-Notifications |
**********************************
August 29, 2018 District Weekly Bulletin
District Weekly Bulletin 8-29-18
Closures
Softball Complexes - All softball complexes will be closed August 20th through September 2nd for maintenance. Softball evaluations will resume on September 11th.
Fall Social Leagues Expo
Sept. 13 / 8:30-10:30 am - Fenney Recreation Center
Registration is Sept. 13-28; League Dates Oct 8 - Dec. 2.
For more information call Danny Jacobs 352 259-5377
Boil Water Notice
Preventative maintenance is occurring on the potable water system field valves
throughout many areas of The Villages. Those customers serviced by Village Center
Service Area (VCSA), Little Sumter Service Area (LSSA) and North Sumter Utilities
(NSU) that will be impacted will be notified 24 hours in advance of a temporary
interruption in service. See District Weekly Bulletin pdf for more details (link above).
District 2 Rate Increase
See Office of Management and Budget on District Weekly Bulletin pdf for more details (link above).
(Highlights only - please see www.districtgov.org/PDFView/PDFMeeting.aspx?id=20180801001301 for more information)
Outline by Susan Riding, Palo Alto Club Secretary and Webmaster
**********************************
District Weekly Bulletin 8-29-18
Closures
Softball Complexes - All softball complexes will be closed August 20th through September 2nd for maintenance. Softball evaluations will resume on September 11th.
Fall Social Leagues Expo
Sept. 13 / 8:30-10:30 am - Fenney Recreation Center
Registration is Sept. 13-28; League Dates Oct 8 - Dec. 2.
For more information call Danny Jacobs 352 259-5377
Boil Water Notice
Preventative maintenance is occurring on the potable water system field valves
throughout many areas of The Villages. Those customers serviced by Village Center
Service Area (VCSA), Little Sumter Service Area (LSSA) and North Sumter Utilities
(NSU) that will be impacted will be notified 24 hours in advance of a temporary
interruption in service. See District Weekly Bulletin pdf for more details (link above).
District 2 Rate Increase
See Office of Management and Budget on District Weekly Bulletin pdf for more details (link above).
(Highlights only - please see www.districtgov.org/PDFView/PDFMeeting.aspx?id=20180801001301 for more information)
Outline by Susan Riding, Palo Alto Club Secretary and Webmaster
**********************************
Welcome Wednesday News Summary
|
|
August 8, 2018 Meetings
I realize after sitting from 8-3 with no lunch and not many laughs (none, as a matter of fact), that I am really glad I am not a politician and that many of the problems in The Villages would be greatly lessened if more people understood “the system”…stop listening to poolside chatter and get the facts! Come to a meeting of your District and find out that you have 5 elected supervisors and a paid staff headed by Richard Baier, who do their best to make our lives good here, but they can do just so much…laws and contracts have to be adhered to. When we bought our homes here, we accepted some responsibility when we signed our contracts. “I didn’t know” is not an acceptable excuse. Some things can be dealt with, others not, and as the adage says, life sometimes is not fair but many of the issues heard could be solved or at least improved upon if people would become more informed on them and communicate better.
So here are short comments, MY interpretation of goings-on, for each District meeting…I challenge you to attend your District meeting or VCDD orientations held each Thursday morning or Amenity Authority meetings: knowledge is a powerful thing and if you work “the system”, “the system” will work. I can validate that here in The Villages.
District 1: As first District to meet in the day, this summary applies to most other districts also: schedule of meetings for next year approved, reduction of fee for community wide Investment Advisory Services approved enthusiastically, Resident Academy format revised to accommodate more participants, and District staff appealing FEMA’s decision that some reimbursements for Hurricane Irma were ineligible.
District 2: same info as District 1 above; lively discussion about the pristine lake becoming a mud hole again and what can be done (testing, decisions to be made based on testing results, District 2 will end up paying for whatever is done but let’s see what the tests show and then act on it; ugly old truck parked for extended time is not prohibited in deed restrictions/plat so can’t be towed until it is unregistered or similar not-allowed circumstances.
Welcome Wednesday: link for the full report of Aug. 8, 2018 is Welcome Wednesday 8/8/2018
Welcome Wednesday Notes / Comments provided by:
Joan Testa, VHA North VP
[email protected]
(817) 247-9677
**********************************
August 8, 2018 Meetings
I realize after sitting from 8-3 with no lunch and not many laughs (none, as a matter of fact), that I am really glad I am not a politician and that many of the problems in The Villages would be greatly lessened if more people understood “the system”…stop listening to poolside chatter and get the facts! Come to a meeting of your District and find out that you have 5 elected supervisors and a paid staff headed by Richard Baier, who do their best to make our lives good here, but they can do just so much…laws and contracts have to be adhered to. When we bought our homes here, we accepted some responsibility when we signed our contracts. “I didn’t know” is not an acceptable excuse. Some things can be dealt with, others not, and as the adage says, life sometimes is not fair but many of the issues heard could be solved or at least improved upon if people would become more informed on them and communicate better.
So here are short comments, MY interpretation of goings-on, for each District meeting…I challenge you to attend your District meeting or VCDD orientations held each Thursday morning or Amenity Authority meetings: knowledge is a powerful thing and if you work “the system”, “the system” will work. I can validate that here in The Villages.
District 1: As first District to meet in the day, this summary applies to most other districts also: schedule of meetings for next year approved, reduction of fee for community wide Investment Advisory Services approved enthusiastically, Resident Academy format revised to accommodate more participants, and District staff appealing FEMA’s decision that some reimbursements for Hurricane Irma were ineligible.
District 2: same info as District 1 above; lively discussion about the pristine lake becoming a mud hole again and what can be done (testing, decisions to be made based on testing results, District 2 will end up paying for whatever is done but let’s see what the tests show and then act on it; ugly old truck parked for extended time is not prohibited in deed restrictions/plat so can’t be towed until it is unregistered or similar not-allowed circumstances.
Welcome Wednesday: link for the full report of Aug. 8, 2018 is Welcome Wednesday 8/8/2018
Welcome Wednesday Notes / Comments provided by:
Joan Testa, VHA North VP
[email protected]
(817) 247-9677
**********************************
August 1, 2018 Meeting
Welcome Wednesday Information Review:
August 1: (See www.districtgov.org/PDFView/PDFMeeting.aspx?id=20180801001301 for more information on each of these:)
(Highlights only - see www.districtgov.org/PDFView/PDFMeeting.aspx?id=20180801001301 for more information)
Outline by Susan Riding, Palo Alto Club Secretary and Webmaster
Welcome Wednesday Information Review:
August 1: (See www.districtgov.org/PDFView/PDFMeeting.aspx?id=20180801001301 for more information on each of these:)
- Facilities Temporarily Closed for Maintenance, including El Santiago closing Aug 5;
- Clarification: 'Campers, Winnebago’s and other recreational vehicles are permitted on the driveway not to exceed three (3) days provided they are not inhabited. This allowance is made in an effort to accommodate the packing and unpacking of the recreational vehicle.'
- First year of The Enrichment Academy (TEA) Program - statistics and 2nd Fall/Winter Semester information
- Preventative maintenance is occurring on the potable water system field valves throughout many areas of The Villages - if impacted, you will be notified 24 hours in advance of a temporary interruption in service ++
- Due to extensive rain, some Executive & Championship Golf courses closed until further notice; Openings, too - these about closer courses: Hilltop – To open Aug.1, 2018; Orange Blossom Hills – To open Aug. 1; 2018; Hacienda Hills / All 27 – To open Aug. 1, 2018
- August 'Turf Talk'
- Emergency management and services related to preparation for severe weather, floods, hurricanes and other disaster response activities fall under the purview of the county in which you live.
- 'Resident Academy' updates
- Web site, www.DistrictGov.org, will undergo improvements over the next several weeks...
(Highlights only - see www.districtgov.org/PDFView/PDFMeeting.aspx?id=20180801001301 for more information)
Outline by Susan Riding, Palo Alto Club Secretary and Webmaster
July 25, 2018 Meeting
NOTE: THIS IS THE LAST FULL SUMMARY YOU WILL BE RECEIVING FROM ME REGARDING WELCOME WEDNESDAY. THE IN-PERSON PRO RAM HAS BEEN DISCONTINUED EFFECTIVE TODAY SO FROM NOW ON, PLEASE GO TO www.DistrictGov.org. PAND ALONG THE LEFT COLUMN IS “WELCOME WEDNESDAY”. CLICK ON THAT AND EACH WEEK THE NEWSLETTER WILL BE POSTED.
These are the highlights of Welcome Wednesday 07-25-18 as it applies to residents North of Hwy 466.
CDD Orientation: Each Thursday at 10 a.m. at the District office (upstairs from Starbucks on Sumter Landing) learn about how the Districts operate and other important community information.
Closed: The following will be closed or have scheduled maintenance: Chula Vista Rec Center on July 28 and Saddlebrook Recreation Center on July 29 & 30. Due to the extensive rainfall and the need to lower water levels (by taking excess water to irrigate golf courses), the following golf courses will be closed until further notice:Orange Blossom, Hacienda, Evan’s Prairie, Belle Glade (Calusa only), Bonifay (Pensacola only), Hilltop, Escambia, Sweetgum, Heron, Sandhill (Silver Lake is also closed for new path construction).
District 4 road mill & overlay: Scheduled work (dates may change due to weather): Ashley Villas & Forsyth Villas 7/23-7/27, Sunnyside Villas 7/30-8/3.
Share Your Questions or Comments with the District: Go onto the website www.districtgov.org and on the left column is a spot for you to sign up for e-notifications. You’ll get emails regarding road closures, recreation center closures and other events. Also: share you thoughts with the District by clicking ?Questions? Comments? Contact us! in this same column on the left side of the opening page of districtgov.org.
Learn and Grow Expo: Thursday, Aug 2nd, 8-11 a.m. at Lake Miona Recreation Center, The Enrichment Academy will kickoff their October 2018-March 2019 semester. Pick up course catalog, meet instructors, ask questions and register (online and on-site registration start date is Aug 2 at 8:30 a.m.) For more info call 674-1800. New Courses begin Oct. 1
Who’s In Charge?: Be sure to read the Welcome Wed. newsletter online at Welcome Wednesday 07-18-18 for a great handy organizational chart of all the departments of District government with contact people and phone numbers. Cut it out and save it!
Board of Supervisors Vacancies: Both District 3 and District 4 have openings for Board Supervisors, to complete the vacated seats expiring in November 2020. Request an application from Jennifer McQueary, District Clerk at 751-3939.
Welcome Wednesday Summaries provided by:
Joan Testa, VHA North VP
[email protected]
(817) 247-9677
**********************************
July 18, 2018 Meeting
These are the highlights of Welcome Wednesday 07-18-18 as it applies to residents North of Hwy 466.
Notices:
Closed: The following will be closed or have scheduled maintenance: Chula Vista Rec Center on July 28, Savannah Center Sports Pool on July 18 and Saddlebrook Recreation Center on July 29.
Sumter County Micro Paving: Begun on July 16, Sumter County will continue micro paving several roadways and impacted residences will receive a door knocker with additional information prior to the work beginning. Streets are identified in newsletter online at Welcome Wednesday 07-18-18 or call the County at 689-4400.
District 4 road mill & overlay: Scheduled work (dates may change due to weather): Morningview Villas 7/16-7/21, Ashley Villas & Forsyth Villas 7/23-7/27, Sunnyside Villas 7/30-8/3.
Weather Policy: For Recreation sponsored activities during inclement weather, Recreation recommends at outdoor areas find shelter and wait at least 30 minutes or longer as deemed necessary by Public Safety or National Weather Service Advisory prior to resuming normal activities. Recreation sponsored activities will be cancelled or postponed when the outside temperature heat index is 104 degrees or higher or 35 degrees or lower.
Learn and Grow Expo: Thursday, Aug 2nd, 8-11 a.m. at Lake Miona Recreation Center, The Enrichment Academy will kickoff their October 2018-March 2019 semester. Pick up course catalog, meet instructors, ask questions and register (online and on-site registration start date is Aug 2 at 8:30 a.m.) For more info call 674-1800. New Courses begin Oct. 1
Who’s In Charge?: Be sure to read the Welcome Wed. newsletter online at Welcome Wednesday 07-18-18 for a great handy organizational chart of all the departments of District government with contact people and phone numbers. Cut it out and save it!
Board of Supervisors Vacancies: Both District 3 and District 4 have openings for Board Supervisors, to complete the vacated seats expiring in November 2020. Request an application from Jennifer McQueary, District Clerk at 751-3939.
Welcome Wednesday Summaries provided by:
Joan Testa, VHA North VP
[email protected]
(817) 247-9677
**********************************
These are the highlights of Welcome Wednesday 07-18-18 as it applies to residents North of Hwy 466.
Notices:
- Tonight, Thursday, July 19, at La Hacienda Recreation Center, 7 p.m., Cutting the Cord (if you are tired off paying for cable or satellite t.v., this will show you alternatives). Free workshop for VHA members only, must have your VHA membership card for entry, seating first come, first served.
- This is the second to last summary of Welcome Wednesday since the program is being discontinued after next Wednesday, July 25, due to lack of resident participation. You can access the newsletter brochure done weekly by the District “Welcome Wednesday News” online at www.districtgov.org, left column click on it, or sign up for E-Notifications so it will be automatically sent to you weekly (look for “Sign Up for e-notifications” also on the left column of the districtgov.org website).
Closed: The following will be closed or have scheduled maintenance: Chula Vista Rec Center on July 28, Savannah Center Sports Pool on July 18 and Saddlebrook Recreation Center on July 29.
Sumter County Micro Paving: Begun on July 16, Sumter County will continue micro paving several roadways and impacted residences will receive a door knocker with additional information prior to the work beginning. Streets are identified in newsletter online at Welcome Wednesday 07-18-18 or call the County at 689-4400.
District 4 road mill & overlay: Scheduled work (dates may change due to weather): Morningview Villas 7/16-7/21, Ashley Villas & Forsyth Villas 7/23-7/27, Sunnyside Villas 7/30-8/3.
Weather Policy: For Recreation sponsored activities during inclement weather, Recreation recommends at outdoor areas find shelter and wait at least 30 minutes or longer as deemed necessary by Public Safety or National Weather Service Advisory prior to resuming normal activities. Recreation sponsored activities will be cancelled or postponed when the outside temperature heat index is 104 degrees or higher or 35 degrees or lower.
Learn and Grow Expo: Thursday, Aug 2nd, 8-11 a.m. at Lake Miona Recreation Center, The Enrichment Academy will kickoff their October 2018-March 2019 semester. Pick up course catalog, meet instructors, ask questions and register (online and on-site registration start date is Aug 2 at 8:30 a.m.) For more info call 674-1800. New Courses begin Oct. 1
Who’s In Charge?: Be sure to read the Welcome Wed. newsletter online at Welcome Wednesday 07-18-18 for a great handy organizational chart of all the departments of District government with contact people and phone numbers. Cut it out and save it!
Board of Supervisors Vacancies: Both District 3 and District 4 have openings for Board Supervisors, to complete the vacated seats expiring in November 2020. Request an application from Jennifer McQueary, District Clerk at 751-3939.
Welcome Wednesday Summaries provided by:
Joan Testa, VHA North VP
[email protected]
(817) 247-9677
**********************************
June 27, 2018 Meeting
These are the highlights of Welcome Wednesday 6/27/2018 as it applies to residents North of Hwy 466.
“Cutting the Cord” Workshop
If you are tired of paying hundreds of dollars each month for cable t.v., come to the VHA workshop “Cutting the Cord” on July 19, 2018 at 7 p.m. at La Hacienda Recreation Center. This is a free workshop for VHA members only. Join at the door! Seating on first come, first served basis.
Closed
The following will be closed or have scheduled maintenance: Chula Vista Pickleball and Tennis Courts will be closed until at least Monday, July 13 for renovations and resurfacing. La Hacienda Rec Center will be closed on July 7.
Sumter County Micro Paving
Beginning on July 9, Sumter County will be micro paving several roadways and impacted residences will receive a door knocker with additional information prior to the work beginning. Streets are identified in newsletter online at Welcome Wednesday 6/27/2018 or call the County at 689-4400.
Postal Facility Cleanliness
To maintain our postal facilities please: do not place unwanted phone books there; do not tape or affix flyers or other paperwork on the exterior of the bulletin boards or other areas of the postal facility; make sure you place all cans inside the Lions Club receptacles not stacked on top of or near them; take junk mail and pet waste home for disposal or recycling.
Recreation Events
July opportunities on Lake Sumter from 7:30-9:30 a.m., are Kayaking on July 5, 12 and 19 for up to 8 participants at $25 each; Nature Pontoon Tours on July 6 and 20 for up to 4 participants at $25 each and Guided Fishing Tours on July 7,13, 14, 21, 27 and 28 for up to 4 anglers for $250.
Reverse Aging
The Enrichment Academy Speaker Series by Dr. Shai Efrati at Lake Miona Rec Center, Monday July 2 at 10 a.m. Limited tickets available.
Did You Know? - Lightning
The average number of lightning flashes in Florida each year is 1,170,979. Lightning can strike 10 miles away from the storm so remember: When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors.
Rules for Fences and Railings
There are regulations for homes, courtyard villas and patio villas. For patio villas, other than originally constructed, fences and railings are prohibited.
For homes:
Holiday Closures
District Customer Service Center and all District Administrative Offices will be closed on July 4. Welcome Wednesday will not be held either. CDD Orientation will not be held on Thursday, July 5. The ARC July 4th meeting has been rescheduled to July 5 due to the holiday. Recreation centers, outdoor facilities and swimming pools will remain open on July 4 with activities ending at 6 p.m., centers closing at 9 p.m. and outdoor facilities and swimming pools closing at dusk. Fitness Clubs will be closed. The Recreation Offices will be closed on July 4. Guest ID card services, trail fees and activity registration will be available July 4 from 8-noon at La Hacienda, Lake Miona, Eisenhower and Rohan Regional Recreation Centers.
Sanitation Information
For Districts 1-11: There will be no yard waste collection on Wednesday July 4. It will be collected on Saturday, July 7. If you live in the Lake County portion of The Villages, get information from Lake County Solid Waste at 343-3776, for the Lady Lake portion of The Villages, Waste Management can be reached at 787-4416.
Welcome Wednesday Summaries provided by:
Joan Testa, VHA North VP
[email protected]
(817) 247-9677
**********************************
These are the highlights of Welcome Wednesday 6/27/2018 as it applies to residents North of Hwy 466.
“Cutting the Cord” Workshop
If you are tired of paying hundreds of dollars each month for cable t.v., come to the VHA workshop “Cutting the Cord” on July 19, 2018 at 7 p.m. at La Hacienda Recreation Center. This is a free workshop for VHA members only. Join at the door! Seating on first come, first served basis.
Closed
The following will be closed or have scheduled maintenance: Chula Vista Pickleball and Tennis Courts will be closed until at least Monday, July 13 for renovations and resurfacing. La Hacienda Rec Center will be closed on July 7.
Sumter County Micro Paving
Beginning on July 9, Sumter County will be micro paving several roadways and impacted residences will receive a door knocker with additional information prior to the work beginning. Streets are identified in newsletter online at Welcome Wednesday 6/27/2018 or call the County at 689-4400.
Postal Facility Cleanliness
To maintain our postal facilities please: do not place unwanted phone books there; do not tape or affix flyers or other paperwork on the exterior of the bulletin boards or other areas of the postal facility; make sure you place all cans inside the Lions Club receptacles not stacked on top of or near them; take junk mail and pet waste home for disposal or recycling.
Recreation Events
July opportunities on Lake Sumter from 7:30-9:30 a.m., are Kayaking on July 5, 12 and 19 for up to 8 participants at $25 each; Nature Pontoon Tours on July 6 and 20 for up to 4 participants at $25 each and Guided Fishing Tours on July 7,13, 14, 21, 27 and 28 for up to 4 anglers for $250.
Reverse Aging
The Enrichment Academy Speaker Series by Dr. Shai Efrati at Lake Miona Rec Center, Monday July 2 at 10 a.m. Limited tickets available.
Did You Know? - Lightning
The average number of lightning flashes in Florida each year is 1,170,979. Lightning can strike 10 miles away from the storm so remember: When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors.
Rules for Fences and Railings
There are regulations for homes, courtyard villas and patio villas. For patio villas, other than originally constructed, fences and railings are prohibited.
For homes:
- Fences may be used to screen condenser/compressor units, pool pumps and related equipment and can’t be higher than the unit(s) itself.
- Railings or fences are permitted around patio slabs so long as they are wrought iron, aluminum, plastic, concrete or other aesthetically pleasing material no higher than 48 inches.
- Railings or fences are permitted across the front of the home and or abutting the front walkway so log as they meet the same requirements of material and height described above.
- No other fences or railings are permitted.
- Railings or fences are not permitted on either side lengthwise of the driveway.
- No fences or railings are permitted on the front of the courtyard villa
- Railings or fences are permitted around patio slabs so long as they are wrought iron, aluminum, plastic, concrete or other aesthetically pleasing material no higher than 48 inches.
- Fences may be used to screen condenser/compressor units, pool pumps and related equipment and can’t be higher than the unit(s) itself.
Holiday Closures
District Customer Service Center and all District Administrative Offices will be closed on July 4. Welcome Wednesday will not be held either. CDD Orientation will not be held on Thursday, July 5. The ARC July 4th meeting has been rescheduled to July 5 due to the holiday. Recreation centers, outdoor facilities and swimming pools will remain open on July 4 with activities ending at 6 p.m., centers closing at 9 p.m. and outdoor facilities and swimming pools closing at dusk. Fitness Clubs will be closed. The Recreation Offices will be closed on July 4. Guest ID card services, trail fees and activity registration will be available July 4 from 8-noon at La Hacienda, Lake Miona, Eisenhower and Rohan Regional Recreation Centers.
Sanitation Information
For Districts 1-11: There will be no yard waste collection on Wednesday July 4. It will be collected on Saturday, July 7. If you live in the Lake County portion of The Villages, get information from Lake County Solid Waste at 343-3776, for the Lady Lake portion of The Villages, Waste Management can be reached at 787-4416.
Welcome Wednesday Summaries provided by:
Joan Testa, VHA North VP
[email protected]
(817) 247-9677
**********************************
June 20, 2018 Meeting
These are the highlights of Welcome Wednesday 06-20-18 as it applies to residents North of Hwy 466.
Closed (closed or have scheduled maintenance):
The following will be closed or have scheduled maintenance: Chula Vista Pickleball and Tennis Courts will be closed until at least Monday, July 13 for renovations and resurfacing. Paradise Dog Park will be closed for quarterly maintenance from June 18 until June 22. La Hacienda Rec Center will be closed on July 7, Mulberry Grove Rec Center on June 23. Roadway Maintenance (mill and overlay) from June 25-29 in Forsyth Villas and Ashleigh Villas in District 4.
Postal Facility Cleanliness:
To maintain our postal facilities please: do not place unwanted phone books there; do not tape or affix flyers or other paperwork on the exterior of the bulletin boards or other areas of the postal facility; make sure you place all cans inside the Lions Club receptacles not stacked on top of or near them; take junk mail and pet waste home for disposal or recycling.
Golf Courses Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program:
Golf Courses Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program is an environmental education program that enhances wildlife habitats and helps course managers with protecting natural resources for the benefits of the communities they are associated with. Sometimes our courses face challenges with our wildlife, their habitats and feeding patterns including instances that damage our courses. We ask that all residents please pay attention to areas marked off by ropes, stakes or caution tape by not entering
Architectural Review Committee (ARC) Meeting Date Change:
The ARC July 4th meeting has been rescheduled to July 5 due to the holiday.
Exterior House Repainting Guidelines
If you are considering repainting your home be sure to click on Welcome Wednesday 06-20-18 and read the large article in this digest that explains all the different rules for all the different locations and resident types in The Villages. Districts 1, 3 and Lady Lake/Lake County residents have one set of rules, District 2 a different set, District 4 is different as well. Courtyard villas stucco and patio villas also have their own rules. So bottom line, check before you repaint.
Tree Removal
Removal of ANY tree with a trunk of 4 inches in diameter is prohibited without first submitting an application to Architectural Review. If it is a canopy tree (not a palm or conifer) a certified arborist will examine the tree and provide a report to the Architectural Review Committee and determine, on a case by case basis, if the tree can come down. If it is a palm tree, an application must still be made, but an arborist may not be examine it. These rules do not apply to villas.
Home and Lot Maintenance
Deed restrictions rules state that “all owners shall keep their lots neat and clean.” In general terms it means owners take reasonable care to keep buildings, landscaping, lighting, lawns and other related improvements and fixtures in good condition. Maintenance of landscaping is defined as the exercise of generally accepted garden-management practices necessary to promote a healthy, weed free environment for optimum plant growth. Grass and weeds are considered overgrown when it is allowed to grow to eight (8) inches in height. Shrubbery is considered overgrown when it is allowed to grow up to the soffit or if the shrubbery is obstructing entry to the front door. Homes and lots are expected to be kept free of external unused items such as miscellaneous items (garden hose, bags of top soil, garden equipment, etc.) construction material and other debris. If you see a property that you believe may not be in compliance, please contact the staff at the Community Standards Department at 751-3912.
Editor’s Note
Monday I attended the workshop SAFE (Stop Adult Financial Exploitation) co-sponsored by the VHA and thought you all would be interested in a few statistics:
Mark your calendar
If you are tired of paying hundreds of dollars each month for cable t.v., come to the VHA workshop “Cutting the Cord” on July 19, 2018 at 7 p.m. at La Hacienda Recreation Center. This is a free workshop for VHA members only. Seating on first come, first served basis
Welcome Wednesday Summaries provided by:
Joan Testa, VHA North VP
[email protected]
(817) 247-9677
**********************************
These are the highlights of Welcome Wednesday 06-20-18 as it applies to residents North of Hwy 466.
Closed (closed or have scheduled maintenance):
The following will be closed or have scheduled maintenance: Chula Vista Pickleball and Tennis Courts will be closed until at least Monday, July 13 for renovations and resurfacing. Paradise Dog Park will be closed for quarterly maintenance from June 18 until June 22. La Hacienda Rec Center will be closed on July 7, Mulberry Grove Rec Center on June 23. Roadway Maintenance (mill and overlay) from June 25-29 in Forsyth Villas and Ashleigh Villas in District 4.
Postal Facility Cleanliness:
To maintain our postal facilities please: do not place unwanted phone books there; do not tape or affix flyers or other paperwork on the exterior of the bulletin boards or other areas of the postal facility; make sure you place all cans inside the Lions Club receptacles not stacked on top of or near them; take junk mail and pet waste home for disposal or recycling.
Golf Courses Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program:
Golf Courses Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program is an environmental education program that enhances wildlife habitats and helps course managers with protecting natural resources for the benefits of the communities they are associated with. Sometimes our courses face challenges with our wildlife, their habitats and feeding patterns including instances that damage our courses. We ask that all residents please pay attention to areas marked off by ropes, stakes or caution tape by not entering
Architectural Review Committee (ARC) Meeting Date Change:
The ARC July 4th meeting has been rescheduled to July 5 due to the holiday.
Exterior House Repainting Guidelines
If you are considering repainting your home be sure to click on Welcome Wednesday 06-20-18 and read the large article in this digest that explains all the different rules for all the different locations and resident types in The Villages. Districts 1, 3 and Lady Lake/Lake County residents have one set of rules, District 2 a different set, District 4 is different as well. Courtyard villas stucco and patio villas also have their own rules. So bottom line, check before you repaint.
Tree Removal
Removal of ANY tree with a trunk of 4 inches in diameter is prohibited without first submitting an application to Architectural Review. If it is a canopy tree (not a palm or conifer) a certified arborist will examine the tree and provide a report to the Architectural Review Committee and determine, on a case by case basis, if the tree can come down. If it is a palm tree, an application must still be made, but an arborist may not be examine it. These rules do not apply to villas.
Home and Lot Maintenance
Deed restrictions rules state that “all owners shall keep their lots neat and clean.” In general terms it means owners take reasonable care to keep buildings, landscaping, lighting, lawns and other related improvements and fixtures in good condition. Maintenance of landscaping is defined as the exercise of generally accepted garden-management practices necessary to promote a healthy, weed free environment for optimum plant growth. Grass and weeds are considered overgrown when it is allowed to grow to eight (8) inches in height. Shrubbery is considered overgrown when it is allowed to grow up to the soffit or if the shrubbery is obstructing entry to the front door. Homes and lots are expected to be kept free of external unused items such as miscellaneous items (garden hose, bags of top soil, garden equipment, etc.) construction material and other debris. If you see a property that you believe may not be in compliance, please contact the staff at the Community Standards Department at 751-3912.
Editor’s Note
Monday I attended the workshop SAFE (Stop Adult Financial Exploitation) co-sponsored by the VHA and thought you all would be interested in a few statistics:
- Seniors control 70% of the nation’s wealth
- $2.9 billion a year is lost by seniors to scams and financial exploitation
- 80% of all losses are to people over the age of 50
- only 1 in 10,000 victims report the crimes
- 1 in 5 adults over the age of 65 are victims of financial exploitation
- women are twice as likely to be targets of financial abuse than men
- don’t fall for the most widespread scams: Grandparent Scam (phone call saying they are in dire need of money), Romance scam (“I love you” becomes leads to your empty bank account), Caller ID spoofing (you think it is a legitimate all but the phone number has been manipulated), IRS Scam (there goes your refund), Tech Support Scam don’t ever let anyone have remote access to your computer), Jury Duty scam (judicial agencies will never call you and threaten if you don’t show up), Lottery Scam (how can you win if you never played) and many more just hang up!
Mark your calendar
If you are tired of paying hundreds of dollars each month for cable t.v., come to the VHA workshop “Cutting the Cord” on July 19, 2018 at 7 p.m. at La Hacienda Recreation Center. This is a free workshop for VHA members only. Seating on first come, first served basis
Welcome Wednesday Summaries provided by:
Joan Testa, VHA North VP
[email protected]
(817) 247-9677
**********************************
June 13, 2018 Meeting
These are the highlights of Welcome Wednesday 06-13-18 as it applies to residents North of Hwy 466.
Closed: The following will be closed or have scheduled maintenance: Chula Vista Pickleball and Tennis Courts will be closed until at least Monday, July 13 for renovations and resurfacing. Paradise Dog Park will be closed for quarterly maintenance from June 18 until June 22.
Sheriff’s Request: Please use caution when traveling throughout the community as this is the season in which hatchlings of all types are crossing the roadways and multi-modal paths. Don’t stop, get out of your car and enter the roadway to help the creatures. Instead, call the Sheriff’s office at 352-793-2621 so they can dispatch an officer to safely remove them from the roads.
Fenney Putt & Play: New permanent hours of operation: 9 a.m. to dusk. Bring your putter and golf balls or stop at Fennyey Recreation Center to check out equipment. First come/ first served, Villages ID required. Only golf car parking is available at the Putt & Play recreation area. Vehicle parking is available at the Blue Heron and Sugar Cane recreation areas.
Note: a question from the audience regarding getting a similar facility in the northern part of The Villages was: Recreation Department (674-1800) is receptive to hearing from residents about types of recreation they want at the future rec facility at the former Baptist Church on Hwy 42 near Mulberry.
Senior Financial Exploitation Awareness Event: Learn how to be scam smart workshop on June 18 from 8:30-12:15 at Rohan Rec Center. Free event by senior service organizations, local and state agencies and non-profit organizations to share info on financial exploitation and ways to combat this crime. Sponsored by the VHA and The Villages Community Development Districts this is a first come first served event with doors opening at 8 a.m.
Architectural Review Committee Meeting Date Change: the ARC July 4th meeting has been rescheduled to July 5 due to the holiday.
Tree Removal: Removal of ANY tree with a trunk of 4 inches in diameter is prohibited without first submitting an application to Architectural Review. If it is a canopy tree (not a palm or conifer) a certified arborist will examine the tree and provide a report to the Architectural Review Committee and determine, on a case by case basis, if the tree can come down. If it is a palm tree, an application must still be made, but an arborist may not be examine it. These rules do not apply to villas.
Home and Lot Maintenance: Deed restrictions rules state that “all owners shall keep their lots neat and clean.” In general terms it means owners take reasonable care to keep buildings, landscaping, lighting, lawns and other related improvements and fixtures in good condition. Maintenance of landscaping is defined as the exercise of generally accepted garden-management practices necessary to promote a healthy, weed free environment for optimum plant growth. Grass and weeds are considered overgrown when it is allowed to grow to eight (8) inches in height. Shrubbery is considered overgrown when it is allowed to grow up to the soffit or if the shrubbery is obstructing entry to the front door. Homes and lots are expected to be kept free of external unused items such as miscellaneous items (garden hose, bags of top soil, garden equipment, etc.) construction material and other debris. If you see a property that you believe may not be in compliance, please contact the staff at the Community Standards Department at 751-3912.
Welcome Wednesday Summaries provided by:
Joan Testa, VHA North VP
[email protected]
(817) 247-9677
**********************************
These are the highlights of Welcome Wednesday 06-13-18 as it applies to residents North of Hwy 466.
Closed: The following will be closed or have scheduled maintenance: Chula Vista Pickleball and Tennis Courts will be closed until at least Monday, July 13 for renovations and resurfacing. Paradise Dog Park will be closed for quarterly maintenance from June 18 until June 22.
Sheriff’s Request: Please use caution when traveling throughout the community as this is the season in which hatchlings of all types are crossing the roadways and multi-modal paths. Don’t stop, get out of your car and enter the roadway to help the creatures. Instead, call the Sheriff’s office at 352-793-2621 so they can dispatch an officer to safely remove them from the roads.
Fenney Putt & Play: New permanent hours of operation: 9 a.m. to dusk. Bring your putter and golf balls or stop at Fennyey Recreation Center to check out equipment. First come/ first served, Villages ID required. Only golf car parking is available at the Putt & Play recreation area. Vehicle parking is available at the Blue Heron and Sugar Cane recreation areas.
Note: a question from the audience regarding getting a similar facility in the northern part of The Villages was: Recreation Department (674-1800) is receptive to hearing from residents about types of recreation they want at the future rec facility at the former Baptist Church on Hwy 42 near Mulberry.
Senior Financial Exploitation Awareness Event: Learn how to be scam smart workshop on June 18 from 8:30-12:15 at Rohan Rec Center. Free event by senior service organizations, local and state agencies and non-profit organizations to share info on financial exploitation and ways to combat this crime. Sponsored by the VHA and The Villages Community Development Districts this is a first come first served event with doors opening at 8 a.m.
Architectural Review Committee Meeting Date Change: the ARC July 4th meeting has been rescheduled to July 5 due to the holiday.
Tree Removal: Removal of ANY tree with a trunk of 4 inches in diameter is prohibited without first submitting an application to Architectural Review. If it is a canopy tree (not a palm or conifer) a certified arborist will examine the tree and provide a report to the Architectural Review Committee and determine, on a case by case basis, if the tree can come down. If it is a palm tree, an application must still be made, but an arborist may not be examine it. These rules do not apply to villas.
Home and Lot Maintenance: Deed restrictions rules state that “all owners shall keep their lots neat and clean.” In general terms it means owners take reasonable care to keep buildings, landscaping, lighting, lawns and other related improvements and fixtures in good condition. Maintenance of landscaping is defined as the exercise of generally accepted garden-management practices necessary to promote a healthy, weed free environment for optimum plant growth. Grass and weeds are considered overgrown when it is allowed to grow to eight (8) inches in height. Shrubbery is considered overgrown when it is allowed to grow up to the soffit or if the shrubbery is obstructing entry to the front door. Homes and lots are expected to be kept free of external unused items such as miscellaneous items (garden hose, bags of top soil, garden equipment, etc.) construction material and other debris. If you see a property that you believe may not be in compliance, please contact the staff at the Community Standards Department at 751-3912.
Welcome Wednesday Summaries provided by:
Joan Testa, VHA North VP
[email protected]
(817) 247-9677
**********************************
June 6, 2018 Meeting
These are the highlights of Welcome Wednesday 06-06-18 as it applies to residents North of Hwy 466.
Closed: The following will be closed or have scheduled maintenance:
Roadway Closures:
Senior Financial Exploitation Awareness Event:
Learn how to be scam smart workshop on June 18 from 8:30-123:15 at Rohan Rec Center. Free event by senior service organizations, local and state agencies and non-profit organizations to share info on financial exploitation and ways to combat this crime. Sponsored by the VHA and The Villages Community Development Districts this is a first come first served event with doors opening at 8 a.m.
Tree Removal: (What is prohibited)
Removal of ANY tree with a trunk of 4 inches in diameter is prohibited without first submitting an application to Architectural Review. If it is a canopy tree (not a palm or conifer) a certified arborist will examine the tree and provide a report to the Architectural Review Committee and determine, on a case by case basis, if the tree can come down. If it is a palm tree, an application must still be made, but an arborist may not be examine it. These rules do not apply to villas.
[See the following Repeat Items on our Non-Palo Alto Events page]
Amenity Authority Committee (AAC) elections will take place on regular voting day of November 6, 2018 for the three seats up for reelection: Lake Lake/Lake County portion of The Villages seat which is currently held by Lowell Barker, District 1 seat which is currently held by Carl Bell who is also chairman of the committee, and the third seat up for reelection is in District 2 which is currently held by Ann Forrester, vice chair of the committee. If you are interested in having your name placed on the ballot for this election to become the representative for your District, you must file at the District Clerk’s Office (upstairs from Starbucks) by June 21, 2018.
Holiday Schedules: Sanitation Collection: for Districts 1-11, no collections on Monday, May 28. If Monday is your normal collection day, you will have it on Saturday, May 26th. If your service is with Waste Management, you will not have collection on Monday, May 28. If your service is with Lake County Solid Waste, contact them for information (352-343-3776).
Recreation Information: All recreation offices will be closed on Monday, May 28 but recreation centers, outdoor facilities, swimming pools and fitness clubs will be open. Guest ID cards, Executive Trail Fees and Activity Registration will be available at La Hacienda, Lake Miona, Eisenhower and Rohan Rec Centers from 8 a.m. until 12 noon on Satuday, Sunday and Monday, May 26-28.
Editor’s Comments: As you all know, I attend almost all Welcome Wednesday, Amenity Authority Committee meetings, and District 1 meetings (except when I am on vacation like I have been a lot lately, thank heaven). Most people don’t like attending lots of meetings but doing so is in my blood and I actually enjoy staying up to date on issues and sharing them with all of you in these weekly emails. I welcome your sending me the email addresses of anyone else you know who might like to receive these updates. Now the point of saying all this: it is an election year, and although I am not fond of politics, by going to all these meetings, I see how important it is to stay informed and to step up and become involved. Because of my commitments to the VHA, Helping Hands, multiple clubs and to attending all the meetings I go to, I will not run for office BUT I ENCOURAGE YOU TO GET INVOLVED. You can make a difference! Each District has 5 elected officials who make the decisions that directly effect issues, property values, maintenance assessments, deed compliance and so much more. Many of the supervisors’ terms expire this year and now is your opportunity to step up and run for office….but act fast since the final filing date is 22nd of June. I’ll be happy to put you in touch with someone who can answer your questions. Meantime remember there are 3 positions (seats) up for reelection in Districts 1, 2, 3 and 4. If no one files to run against them, the incumbents will automatically be re-elected. And yes, District Supervisors are paid $200 per meeting.
Welcome Wednesday Summaries provided by:
Joan Testa, VHA North VP
[email protected]
(817) 247-9677
**********************************
These are the highlights of Welcome Wednesday 06-06-18 as it applies to residents North of Hwy 466.
Closed: The following will be closed or have scheduled maintenance:
- Chula Vista Pickleball and Tennis Courts will be closed until Monday, July 2nd for renovations and resurfacing.
- The La Hacienda Courts will be closed until June 22nd.
- Paradise Dog Park will be closed for quarterly maintenance from June 18 until June 22.
- Chatham Recreation Center will be closed for quarterly cleaning on Saturday, June 9.
- Legacy Lane, west of Buena Vista Boulevard is scheduled for mill and overlay June 11-16 with roadway reduction to one lane.
Roadway Closures:
- A portion of Aloha Way between Owen Drive and Teakwood Lane will be closed beginning Wednesday May 23, as water is pumped out of Lake Paradise and into the retention area on Hilltop Golf Course.
- The intersection of McLawren Terrace and McAlpin Street in Calumet Grove is closed due to depressions and wash out areas (sinkholes).
Senior Financial Exploitation Awareness Event:
Learn how to be scam smart workshop on June 18 from 8:30-123:15 at Rohan Rec Center. Free event by senior service organizations, local and state agencies and non-profit organizations to share info on financial exploitation and ways to combat this crime. Sponsored by the VHA and The Villages Community Development Districts this is a first come first served event with doors opening at 8 a.m.
Tree Removal: (What is prohibited)
Removal of ANY tree with a trunk of 4 inches in diameter is prohibited without first submitting an application to Architectural Review. If it is a canopy tree (not a palm or conifer) a certified arborist will examine the tree and provide a report to the Architectural Review Committee and determine, on a case by case basis, if the tree can come down. If it is a palm tree, an application must still be made, but an arborist may not be examine it. These rules do not apply to villas.
[See the following Repeat Items on our Non-Palo Alto Events page]
- Guided Tours on Lake Sumter
- Fitness Club
Amenity Authority Committee (AAC) elections will take place on regular voting day of November 6, 2018 for the three seats up for reelection: Lake Lake/Lake County portion of The Villages seat which is currently held by Lowell Barker, District 1 seat which is currently held by Carl Bell who is also chairman of the committee, and the third seat up for reelection is in District 2 which is currently held by Ann Forrester, vice chair of the committee. If you are interested in having your name placed on the ballot for this election to become the representative for your District, you must file at the District Clerk’s Office (upstairs from Starbucks) by June 21, 2018.
Holiday Schedules: Sanitation Collection: for Districts 1-11, no collections on Monday, May 28. If Monday is your normal collection day, you will have it on Saturday, May 26th. If your service is with Waste Management, you will not have collection on Monday, May 28. If your service is with Lake County Solid Waste, contact them for information (352-343-3776).
Recreation Information: All recreation offices will be closed on Monday, May 28 but recreation centers, outdoor facilities, swimming pools and fitness clubs will be open. Guest ID cards, Executive Trail Fees and Activity Registration will be available at La Hacienda, Lake Miona, Eisenhower and Rohan Rec Centers from 8 a.m. until 12 noon on Satuday, Sunday and Monday, May 26-28.
Editor’s Comments: As you all know, I attend almost all Welcome Wednesday, Amenity Authority Committee meetings, and District 1 meetings (except when I am on vacation like I have been a lot lately, thank heaven). Most people don’t like attending lots of meetings but doing so is in my blood and I actually enjoy staying up to date on issues and sharing them with all of you in these weekly emails. I welcome your sending me the email addresses of anyone else you know who might like to receive these updates. Now the point of saying all this: it is an election year, and although I am not fond of politics, by going to all these meetings, I see how important it is to stay informed and to step up and become involved. Because of my commitments to the VHA, Helping Hands, multiple clubs and to attending all the meetings I go to, I will not run for office BUT I ENCOURAGE YOU TO GET INVOLVED. You can make a difference! Each District has 5 elected officials who make the decisions that directly effect issues, property values, maintenance assessments, deed compliance and so much more. Many of the supervisors’ terms expire this year and now is your opportunity to step up and run for office….but act fast since the final filing date is 22nd of June. I’ll be happy to put you in touch with someone who can answer your questions. Meantime remember there are 3 positions (seats) up for reelection in Districts 1, 2, 3 and 4. If no one files to run against them, the incumbents will automatically be re-elected. And yes, District Supervisors are paid $200 per meeting.
Welcome Wednesday Summaries provided by:
Joan Testa, VHA North VP
[email protected]
(817) 247-9677
**********************************
May 23, 2018 Meeting
These are the highlights of Welcome Wednesday 5/23/2018 as it applies to residents North of Hwy 466. Welcome Wednesday will not be held next week, May 30th.
Closed: The following will be closed or have scheduled maintenance: Chula Vista Pickleball and Tennis Courts will be closed until Monday, July 2nd for renovations and resurfacing. The La Hacienda Courts will be closed until June 22nd. Due to rainfall over the the past week the following golf courses will be closed so they can be used as collection points and storage areas for holding excessive water in our community (dates subject to change due to probable additional rain): closed until 5/30 are Silver Lake, Hill Top, Chula Vista, Mira Mesa, El Santiago, Orange Blossom Hills Championship; Hacienda Hills closed until 5/31, Glenview Champions until 5/25 a.m., and Lopez Legacy until 5/25. Paradise Dog Park will be closed for quarterly maintenance from June 18 until June 22.
Roadway Closures: A portion of Aloha Way between Owen Drive and Teakwood Lane will be closed beginning Wednesday May 23, as water is pumped out of Lake Paradise and into the retention area on Hilltop Golf Course. The intersection of McLawren Terrace and McAlpin Street in Calumet Grove is closed due to depressions and wash out areas (sinkholes). Also in District 4, starting on May 29th (depending on weather) inspections of storm pipes on streets off Belle Meade Circle east of Buena Vista Boulevard will result in partial street blockage.
Enrichment Academy: Residents interested in becoming an instructor or speaker for The Enrichment Academy are invited to a recruitment open house on June 9 from 9-11 a.m. at Lake Miona Recreation Center.
Guided Tours on Lake Sumter: June opportunities, tours run from 7:30-9:30 a.m.; register at Eisenhower, La Hacienda, Lake Miona or Rohan Recreation Centers; $25 each for up to 8 participants for Kayaking, June 7, 14, & 28; $25 each for up to 4 participants for Nature Pontoon Tours, Friday June 1, 15, & 29; $250 for up to 4 anglers for Guided Fishing Tours on Saturday June 2, 9, 26, 23 & 30 and Friday June 8 & 22.
Fitness Club: Summer Special starts June 1 for all 6 locations (Mulberry Grovew, Laurel Manor, Colony Cottage, SeaBreeze, Rohan, Fenney) is $100 and takes effect on the date of purchase and runs 3 months from that date.
Amenity Authority Committee (AAC) elections will take place on regular voting day of November 6, 2018 for the three seats up for reelection: Lake Lake/Lake County portion of The Villages seat which is currently held by Lowell Barker, District 1 seat which is currently held by Carl Bell who is also chairman of the committee, and the third seat up for reelection is in District 2 which is currently held by Ann Forrester, vice chair of the committee. If you are interested in having your name placed on the ballot for this election to become the representative for your District, you must file at the District Clerk’s Office (upstairs from Starbucks) by June 21, 2018.
Holiday Schedules: Sanitation Collection: for Districts 1-11, no collections on Monday, May 28. If Monday is your normal collection day, you will have it on Saturday, May 26th. If your service is with Waste Management, you will not have collection on Monday, May 28. If your service is with Lake County Solid Waste, contact them for information (352-343-3776).
Recreation Information: All recreation offices will be closed on Monday, May 28 but recreation centers, outdoor facilities, swimming pools and fitness clubs will be open. Guest ID cards, Executive Trail Fees and Activity Registration will be available at La Hacienda, Lake Miona, Eisenhower and Rohan Rec Centers from 8 a.m. until 12 noon on Satuday, Sunday and Monday, May 26-28.
Editor’s Comments: '...Run for office….but act fast since the final filing date is 22nd of June.'
As you all know, I attend almost all Welcome Wednesday, Amenity Authority Committee meetings, and District 1 meetings (except when I am on vacation like I have been a lot lately, thank heaven). Most people don’t like attending lots of meetings but doing so is in my blood and I actually enjoy staying up to date on issues and sharing them with all of you in these weekly emails. I welcome your sending me the email addresses of anyone else you know who might like to receive these updates. Now the point of saying all this: it is an election year, and although I am not fond of politics, by going to all these meetings, I see how important it is to stay informed and to step up and become involved. Because of my commitments to the VHA, Helping Hands, multiple clubs and to attending all the meetings I go to, I will not run for office BUT I ENCOURAGE YOU TO GET INVOLVED. You can make a difference! Each District has 5 elected officials who make the decisions that directly effect issues, property values, maintenance assessments, deed compliance and so much more. Many of the supervisors’ terms expire this year and now is your opportunity to step up and run for office….but act fast since the final filing date is 22nd of June. I’ll be happy to put you in touch with someone who can answer your questions. Meantime remember there are 3 positions (seats) up for reelection in Districts 1, 2, 3 and 4. If no one files to run against them, the incumbents will automatically be re-elected. And yes, District Supervisors are paid $200 per meeting.
Welcome Wednesday Summaries provided by:
Joan Testa, VHA North VP
[email protected]
(817) 247-9677
**********************************
These are the highlights of Welcome Wednesday 5/23/2018 as it applies to residents North of Hwy 466. Welcome Wednesday will not be held next week, May 30th.
Closed: The following will be closed or have scheduled maintenance: Chula Vista Pickleball and Tennis Courts will be closed until Monday, July 2nd for renovations and resurfacing. The La Hacienda Courts will be closed until June 22nd. Due to rainfall over the the past week the following golf courses will be closed so they can be used as collection points and storage areas for holding excessive water in our community (dates subject to change due to probable additional rain): closed until 5/30 are Silver Lake, Hill Top, Chula Vista, Mira Mesa, El Santiago, Orange Blossom Hills Championship; Hacienda Hills closed until 5/31, Glenview Champions until 5/25 a.m., and Lopez Legacy until 5/25. Paradise Dog Park will be closed for quarterly maintenance from June 18 until June 22.
Roadway Closures: A portion of Aloha Way between Owen Drive and Teakwood Lane will be closed beginning Wednesday May 23, as water is pumped out of Lake Paradise and into the retention area on Hilltop Golf Course. The intersection of McLawren Terrace and McAlpin Street in Calumet Grove is closed due to depressions and wash out areas (sinkholes). Also in District 4, starting on May 29th (depending on weather) inspections of storm pipes on streets off Belle Meade Circle east of Buena Vista Boulevard will result in partial street blockage.
Enrichment Academy: Residents interested in becoming an instructor or speaker for The Enrichment Academy are invited to a recruitment open house on June 9 from 9-11 a.m. at Lake Miona Recreation Center.
Guided Tours on Lake Sumter: June opportunities, tours run from 7:30-9:30 a.m.; register at Eisenhower, La Hacienda, Lake Miona or Rohan Recreation Centers; $25 each for up to 8 participants for Kayaking, June 7, 14, & 28; $25 each for up to 4 participants for Nature Pontoon Tours, Friday June 1, 15, & 29; $250 for up to 4 anglers for Guided Fishing Tours on Saturday June 2, 9, 26, 23 & 30 and Friday June 8 & 22.
Fitness Club: Summer Special starts June 1 for all 6 locations (Mulberry Grovew, Laurel Manor, Colony Cottage, SeaBreeze, Rohan, Fenney) is $100 and takes effect on the date of purchase and runs 3 months from that date.
Amenity Authority Committee (AAC) elections will take place on regular voting day of November 6, 2018 for the three seats up for reelection: Lake Lake/Lake County portion of The Villages seat which is currently held by Lowell Barker, District 1 seat which is currently held by Carl Bell who is also chairman of the committee, and the third seat up for reelection is in District 2 which is currently held by Ann Forrester, vice chair of the committee. If you are interested in having your name placed on the ballot for this election to become the representative for your District, you must file at the District Clerk’s Office (upstairs from Starbucks) by June 21, 2018.
Holiday Schedules: Sanitation Collection: for Districts 1-11, no collections on Monday, May 28. If Monday is your normal collection day, you will have it on Saturday, May 26th. If your service is with Waste Management, you will not have collection on Monday, May 28. If your service is with Lake County Solid Waste, contact them for information (352-343-3776).
Recreation Information: All recreation offices will be closed on Monday, May 28 but recreation centers, outdoor facilities, swimming pools and fitness clubs will be open. Guest ID cards, Executive Trail Fees and Activity Registration will be available at La Hacienda, Lake Miona, Eisenhower and Rohan Rec Centers from 8 a.m. until 12 noon on Satuday, Sunday and Monday, May 26-28.
Editor’s Comments: '...Run for office….but act fast since the final filing date is 22nd of June.'
As you all know, I attend almost all Welcome Wednesday, Amenity Authority Committee meetings, and District 1 meetings (except when I am on vacation like I have been a lot lately, thank heaven). Most people don’t like attending lots of meetings but doing so is in my blood and I actually enjoy staying up to date on issues and sharing them with all of you in these weekly emails. I welcome your sending me the email addresses of anyone else you know who might like to receive these updates. Now the point of saying all this: it is an election year, and although I am not fond of politics, by going to all these meetings, I see how important it is to stay informed and to step up and become involved. Because of my commitments to the VHA, Helping Hands, multiple clubs and to attending all the meetings I go to, I will not run for office BUT I ENCOURAGE YOU TO GET INVOLVED. You can make a difference! Each District has 5 elected officials who make the decisions that directly effect issues, property values, maintenance assessments, deed compliance and so much more. Many of the supervisors’ terms expire this year and now is your opportunity to step up and run for office….but act fast since the final filing date is 22nd of June. I’ll be happy to put you in touch with someone who can answer your questions. Meantime remember there are 3 positions (seats) up for reelection in Districts 1, 2, 3 and 4. If no one files to run against them, the incumbents will automatically be re-elected. And yes, District Supervisors are paid $200 per meeting.
Welcome Wednesday Summaries provided by:
Joan Testa, VHA North VP
[email protected]
(817) 247-9677
**********************************
April 18, 2018 Meeting
These are the highlights of Welcome Wednesday 04-18-18 as it applies to residents North of Hwy 466.
CDD Orientation: See FYI Keepers
Opportunities
Maintenance Updates:
Tunnel construction on west entry of Tunnel M5 at Mariposa Way (the one that is on your way from 466 to go over the Sumter bridge) will have construction on Thursday 4/19 and Friday 4/20 from midnight until 7 a.m. Also SECO began upgrading the electrical service equipment near the Morse South Gate House on Tues. 4/17 and should have it completed late Thursday 4/19. The following facilities will be closed or have scheduled maintenance: Chula Vista Buffalo Bill Billiards room will be closed 4/18-19 for table recovering, Chula Vista Rec Center will be closed on Saturday 4/28 for quarterly maintenance, Saddlebrook Rec Center will be closed on Sunday April 29 for quarterly maintenance.
The Recreation News:
At recent Amenity Authority Committee (AAC) and Project Wide Advisory Committee (PWAC) meetings, The Villages District Government staff was directed to continue to move forward with reviewing changes and improvements to the Recreation News. The written and web based versions of this publication will continue to be vetted during the next several months. There are no plans to discontinue this publication. Editors note: this publication serves 2800 indoor and 1300 outdoor lifestyle groups (our clubs).
Welcome Wednesday Summaries provided by:
Joan Testa, VHA North VP
[email protected]
(817) 247-9677
**********************************
These are the highlights of Welcome Wednesday 04-18-18 as it applies to residents North of Hwy 466.
CDD Orientation: See FYI Keepers
Opportunities
- April 19, Thursday, Important event: La Hacienda Recreation Center, 6:30 p.m., open to all Villagers, “STAYING ALIVE: EVERYDAY AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS IN THE VILLAGES. Come learn all about comprehensive (and free!) programs that keep you safe and assist in preparing you for emergencies before they happen. Registration not necessary but come early to be sure to get your seat! Sponsored by the VHA.
- Opening of Villages Dog Park #5 and another Archery Range: Both of these facilities (Dudley Canine Park, Dudley Archery Range) are near Fenney in the far south, but you are welcome to use these facilities from April 26th on. Remember: It is much safer to bring your dogs to an official park with fences than using the “unofficial dog parks” where there have been several dogs off leash (illegal) who were killed. Villages dog parks are safer also because all dogs must be neutered or spayed and the small dog areas are restricted to weight limit of 30 pounds.
- Camp Villages will run this year from June 11 to August 10. Summer camp brochures will be available in late April at all recreation centers.
- Senior Games: The gathering of athletes and packet pickup will be held on Tuesday, April 24 from 4 to 7 pm at Lake Sumter Landing Market Square.
- Walking Trail: Did you know that the Recreation and Parks Department offers a variety of walking sidewalks and trails for residents and guests to enjoy. Many of these walking areas can be found right at your local recreation center. For example: Mulberry Grove Recreation Center: walking distance around the building is 4/5 mile.
Maintenance Updates:
Tunnel construction on west entry of Tunnel M5 at Mariposa Way (the one that is on your way from 466 to go over the Sumter bridge) will have construction on Thursday 4/19 and Friday 4/20 from midnight until 7 a.m. Also SECO began upgrading the electrical service equipment near the Morse South Gate House on Tues. 4/17 and should have it completed late Thursday 4/19. The following facilities will be closed or have scheduled maintenance: Chula Vista Buffalo Bill Billiards room will be closed 4/18-19 for table recovering, Chula Vista Rec Center will be closed on Saturday 4/28 for quarterly maintenance, Saddlebrook Rec Center will be closed on Sunday April 29 for quarterly maintenance.
The Recreation News:
At recent Amenity Authority Committee (AAC) and Project Wide Advisory Committee (PWAC) meetings, The Villages District Government staff was directed to continue to move forward with reviewing changes and improvements to the Recreation News. The written and web based versions of this publication will continue to be vetted during the next several months. There are no plans to discontinue this publication. Editors note: this publication serves 2800 indoor and 1300 outdoor lifestyle groups (our clubs).
Welcome Wednesday Summaries provided by:
Joan Testa, VHA North VP
[email protected]
(817) 247-9677
**********************************
April 11, 2018 Meeting
These are the highlights of Welcome Wednesday 04-11-18 as it applies to residents North of Hwy 466.
Important upcoming event: April 19, Thursday, La Hacienda Recreation Center, 6:30 p.m., open to all Villagers, “STAYING ALIVE: EVERYDAY AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS IN THE VILLAGES". Come learn all about comprehensive (and free!) programs that keep you safe and assist in preparing you for emergencies before they happen. Registration not necessary but come early to be sure to get your seat! Sponsored by the VHA, North Area.
CDD Orientation:
Every Thursday at 10 am at the District Office, upstairs from Starbucks at Lake Sumter Landing, you are welcome to attend this session to learn about how the Districts operate and other important community information. For additional information, call (352) 753-4508.
Maintenance Update:
El Santiago Rec Center will be closed on April 15 for maintenance and Chatham Family Pool will be closed on April 16 & 17 for maintenance. The Lake Miona Rec Center will be closed for total facility cleaning on April 28 with trail fee and guest ID services available only from 8 am until noon.
Personal Folding Chairs on the Squares:
Personal folding chairs are allowed to brought to events but setting them up and leaving them prior to 3 p.m. is prohibited. Any chairs set up and left on the square prior to 3 pm will be removed by District Property Management.
Morse Boulevard Traffic Jam:
Expect major traffic delays (so avoid the intersection if possible) at the Morse South Gate House at CR 466 on Tues.-Thurs. April 17-19. SECO Energy will be upgrading the electrical service equipment.
Water conservation tips:
Watch for silent leaks in toilets (by the way, don’t use bowl cleaning tablets containing chlorine since they ruin the mechanisms); take shorter showers, make sure there are no leaks in shower heads, use low-flow shower heads; watch wash cycles for laundry, selecting minimum volume of water required for each load. More info from water matters.org/conservation.
Executive Golf 2018 Greens Aerification Schedule is included in Welcome Wednesday 04-11-18 .
Pets & Play:
There are 5 dog friendly leash free parks in The Villages. These dog parks are fenced in play areas for both large and small dogs designed so dogs can run freely and socialize with other dogs. Please refrain from allowing dogs on the court facilities (pickle ball, tennis etc.) and recreation fields. Only service animals are permitted in the recreation facilities and District offices.
Guests 19 Years of Age & Older:
With summer visiting season about to start, please be sure to tell your guests 19 years of age and older, to always carry their valid photoID along with their guest ID when they are using The Villages recreation facilities. Guest IDs can be obtained at all regional recreation centers and at the District Customer Service Center.
AMENITY AUTHORITY COMMITTEE MEETING:
Golf Cart Parking on El Camino @ Morse:
The golf cart parking spaces construction is almost complete for residents who want to exercise themselves and their dogs on the open area adjoining the water at El Camino @ Morse. These spaces are being built so people can still use this public area, but not continue to ruin the grass with their carts. Please park in the allotted spots…continued property damage will probably result in the area being fenced off. The District put in these parking spots to avoid this so please use them!
Welcome Wednesday Summaries provided by:
Joan Testa, VHA North VP
[email protected]
(817) 247-9677
**********************************
These are the highlights of Welcome Wednesday 04-11-18 as it applies to residents North of Hwy 466.
Important upcoming event: April 19, Thursday, La Hacienda Recreation Center, 6:30 p.m., open to all Villagers, “STAYING ALIVE: EVERYDAY AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS IN THE VILLAGES". Come learn all about comprehensive (and free!) programs that keep you safe and assist in preparing you for emergencies before they happen. Registration not necessary but come early to be sure to get your seat! Sponsored by the VHA, North Area.
CDD Orientation:
Every Thursday at 10 am at the District Office, upstairs from Starbucks at Lake Sumter Landing, you are welcome to attend this session to learn about how the Districts operate and other important community information. For additional information, call (352) 753-4508.
Maintenance Update:
El Santiago Rec Center will be closed on April 15 for maintenance and Chatham Family Pool will be closed on April 16 & 17 for maintenance. The Lake Miona Rec Center will be closed for total facility cleaning on April 28 with trail fee and guest ID services available only from 8 am until noon.
Personal Folding Chairs on the Squares:
Personal folding chairs are allowed to brought to events but setting them up and leaving them prior to 3 p.m. is prohibited. Any chairs set up and left on the square prior to 3 pm will be removed by District Property Management.
Morse Boulevard Traffic Jam:
Expect major traffic delays (so avoid the intersection if possible) at the Morse South Gate House at CR 466 on Tues.-Thurs. April 17-19. SECO Energy will be upgrading the electrical service equipment.
Water conservation tips:
Watch for silent leaks in toilets (by the way, don’t use bowl cleaning tablets containing chlorine since they ruin the mechanisms); take shorter showers, make sure there are no leaks in shower heads, use low-flow shower heads; watch wash cycles for laundry, selecting minimum volume of water required for each load. More info from water matters.org/conservation.
Executive Golf 2018 Greens Aerification Schedule is included in Welcome Wednesday 04-11-18 .
Pets & Play:
There are 5 dog friendly leash free parks in The Villages. These dog parks are fenced in play areas for both large and small dogs designed so dogs can run freely and socialize with other dogs. Please refrain from allowing dogs on the court facilities (pickle ball, tennis etc.) and recreation fields. Only service animals are permitted in the recreation facilities and District offices.
Guests 19 Years of Age & Older:
With summer visiting season about to start, please be sure to tell your guests 19 years of age and older, to always carry their valid photoID along with their guest ID when they are using The Villages recreation facilities. Guest IDs can be obtained at all regional recreation centers and at the District Customer Service Center.
AMENITY AUTHORITY COMMITTEE MEETING:
Golf Cart Parking on El Camino @ Morse:
The golf cart parking spaces construction is almost complete for residents who want to exercise themselves and their dogs on the open area adjoining the water at El Camino @ Morse. These spaces are being built so people can still use this public area, but not continue to ruin the grass with their carts. Please park in the allotted spots…continued property damage will probably result in the area being fenced off. The District put in these parking spots to avoid this so please use them!
Welcome Wednesday Summaries provided by:
Joan Testa, VHA North VP
[email protected]
(817) 247-9677
**********************************
April 4, 2018 Meeting
These are the highlights of Welcome Wednesday 4/4/2018 as it applies to residents North of Hwy 466.
CDD Orientation: Every Thursday at 10 am at the District Office, upstairs from Starbucks at Lake Sumter Landing, you are welcome to attend this session to learn about how the Districts operate and other important community information. For additional information, call (352) 753-4508.
Potable Water System Field Valves: Preventive maintenance is being done with public drinking water mains being shut down. This will be a temporary interruption in service with a precautionary boil water notice going into effect. All addresses in the affected area will be notified. The tentative schedule of the areas impacted in the upcoming week are 4/9 Water Tower Circle (by west path) and 4/11 at 720 Cortez.
Maintenance Update: Paradise Petanque Courts will be closed for improvements March 28-April 6, La Hacienda Recreation Center will be closed for quarterly cleaning on April 7 and Chatham Suffleboard Courts will be closed for resurfacing April 2-4.
Smoke Alarm Recall: Two models of smoke alarms manufactured by Kiddie are being recalled due to a manufacturing defect which could render them ineffective: P12010 and P19010. You can go to https://kiddie-smok-alarm-recallusen.expertinquiry.com/ to obtain a replacement. If you would like the Villages Department of Public Safety (Fire Department) to come and check your alarm, call Monday through Friday at 352-250-8280.
Sheriff’s Reminder: SLOW DOWN. There have been over 300 crashes in the Sumter County parts of The Villages in the last quarter. Also: stop for pedestrians in crosswalks, they have the right of way. Pedestrians should walk against the direction of traffic in our streets but on multi-modal paths, walk in the same direction as traffic.
Only Rain Down the Drains: Many of the water retention areas in our community are connected through various inlets and pipes. In addition to storm water, everything that enters the storm water pipes can end up in the water retention areas throughout the community. This includes trash, leaves, fertilizer, soap from washing vehicles, animal droppings and more, Do not place anything in any of the storm water drains…it pollutes and is actually illegal. Running of the Squares, 5k Fun Run at 8 a.m. on Saturday March 31 at Spanish Springs. Day of registration available starting at 7 a.m.
Executive Golf: Planned projects are Hawks Bay greens and tee renovations; new practice green and tee complex at Sliver Lake and rebuilding of two contaminated greens at Bogart. Also, check your web and tee times communications throughout the month of ay. Summer mechanical aeration programs and closures schedules done then so plan accordingly and expect aerated surfaces to be slightly sandy and bumpy over the course of 14-21 days.
Interested in starting an AED Program in your area?: Contact Lt. John Longacre, Villages Public Safety Department to have a very information presentation at your next neighborhood meeting. There are 190 AED units in The Villages now and a need for more. Lives are saved (a man cutting grass was the most recent cardiac arrest victim saved).
Call 352-205-8280 for more info.
Recreation & Parks Events: Camp Villages Movie & Pizza Night, Friday April 6 at 6 pm, Canal Street Rec. Center, $2 per person, for “grandchildren night” movie “Rise of the Guardians”. Grand opening & ribbon cutting of Dudley Canine Park and the Archery Range on Fenney Way on Thursday, April 12 at 10 a.m. World Twirling Day on Lake Sumter Landing Market Square Tuesday April 10 from 9 until 10 am…bring your baton and join in. Call 352-753-1716 for more information.
After Hours with the District: Residents of The Villages have additional opportunities after hours to meet District staff and learn more about the services available to you. Wednesday April 4 from 5-9 pm at Spanish Springs Town Square, Thursday April 5 from 5-9 pm at Lake Sumter Landing Market Square and Saturday April 7 from 9 am - 2 pm at Brownwood Paddock Square.
Household Hazardous Waste Mobile Collection: Sumter County Public Works will hold the collection on Saturday, April 7, 2018 from 9 until 3 at Lake Okahupka Park in Wildwood. Check www.districtgov.org for this week’s Welcome Wednesday handout for a listing of items you can bring to this event or call 352-689-4400.
as it applies to residents North of Hwy 466. Please forward or share this information to all of your neighbors. The handout newsletter prepared for this event by District staff is available online at Welcome Wednesday 3/28/2018.
Warning: Landscapers, Lawn Services & Tree Trimmers SCAMS: Information provided by Seniors vs Crime (a special project of the Florida Attorney General). Remember:
Welcome Wednesday Summaries provided by:
Joan Testa, VHA North VP
[email protected]
(817) 247-9677
**********************************
These are the highlights of Welcome Wednesday 4/4/2018 as it applies to residents North of Hwy 466.
CDD Orientation: Every Thursday at 10 am at the District Office, upstairs from Starbucks at Lake Sumter Landing, you are welcome to attend this session to learn about how the Districts operate and other important community information. For additional information, call (352) 753-4508.
Potable Water System Field Valves: Preventive maintenance is being done with public drinking water mains being shut down. This will be a temporary interruption in service with a precautionary boil water notice going into effect. All addresses in the affected area will be notified. The tentative schedule of the areas impacted in the upcoming week are 4/9 Water Tower Circle (by west path) and 4/11 at 720 Cortez.
Maintenance Update: Paradise Petanque Courts will be closed for improvements March 28-April 6, La Hacienda Recreation Center will be closed for quarterly cleaning on April 7 and Chatham Suffleboard Courts will be closed for resurfacing April 2-4.
Smoke Alarm Recall: Two models of smoke alarms manufactured by Kiddie are being recalled due to a manufacturing defect which could render them ineffective: P12010 and P19010. You can go to https://kiddie-smok-alarm-recallusen.expertinquiry.com/ to obtain a replacement. If you would like the Villages Department of Public Safety (Fire Department) to come and check your alarm, call Monday through Friday at 352-250-8280.
Sheriff’s Reminder: SLOW DOWN. There have been over 300 crashes in the Sumter County parts of The Villages in the last quarter. Also: stop for pedestrians in crosswalks, they have the right of way. Pedestrians should walk against the direction of traffic in our streets but on multi-modal paths, walk in the same direction as traffic.
Only Rain Down the Drains: Many of the water retention areas in our community are connected through various inlets and pipes. In addition to storm water, everything that enters the storm water pipes can end up in the water retention areas throughout the community. This includes trash, leaves, fertilizer, soap from washing vehicles, animal droppings and more, Do not place anything in any of the storm water drains…it pollutes and is actually illegal. Running of the Squares, 5k Fun Run at 8 a.m. on Saturday March 31 at Spanish Springs. Day of registration available starting at 7 a.m.
Executive Golf: Planned projects are Hawks Bay greens and tee renovations; new practice green and tee complex at Sliver Lake and rebuilding of two contaminated greens at Bogart. Also, check your web and tee times communications throughout the month of ay. Summer mechanical aeration programs and closures schedules done then so plan accordingly and expect aerated surfaces to be slightly sandy and bumpy over the course of 14-21 days.
Interested in starting an AED Program in your area?: Contact Lt. John Longacre, Villages Public Safety Department to have a very information presentation at your next neighborhood meeting. There are 190 AED units in The Villages now and a need for more. Lives are saved (a man cutting grass was the most recent cardiac arrest victim saved).
Call 352-205-8280 for more info.
Recreation & Parks Events: Camp Villages Movie & Pizza Night, Friday April 6 at 6 pm, Canal Street Rec. Center, $2 per person, for “grandchildren night” movie “Rise of the Guardians”. Grand opening & ribbon cutting of Dudley Canine Park and the Archery Range on Fenney Way on Thursday, April 12 at 10 a.m. World Twirling Day on Lake Sumter Landing Market Square Tuesday April 10 from 9 until 10 am…bring your baton and join in. Call 352-753-1716 for more information.
After Hours with the District: Residents of The Villages have additional opportunities after hours to meet District staff and learn more about the services available to you. Wednesday April 4 from 5-9 pm at Spanish Springs Town Square, Thursday April 5 from 5-9 pm at Lake Sumter Landing Market Square and Saturday April 7 from 9 am - 2 pm at Brownwood Paddock Square.
Household Hazardous Waste Mobile Collection: Sumter County Public Works will hold the collection on Saturday, April 7, 2018 from 9 until 3 at Lake Okahupka Park in Wildwood. Check www.districtgov.org for this week’s Welcome Wednesday handout for a listing of items you can bring to this event or call 352-689-4400.
as it applies to residents North of Hwy 466. Please forward or share this information to all of your neighbors. The handout newsletter prepared for this event by District staff is available online at Welcome Wednesday 3/28/2018.
Warning: Landscapers, Lawn Services & Tree Trimmers SCAMS: Information provided by Seniors vs Crime (a special project of the Florida Attorney General). Remember:
- Contractors are not required to have a state license…there is none for these types of businesses in Florida
- the term “licenses and insured” may only mean they have license tags and insurance on their pick-up truck - ask to see proof!
- ask for a certificate of insurance that shows they have both general liability and workers’ compensation insurance that is current and in force - if one of them gets hurt on your property, you may be liable
- ask for a copy of their “license”: it probably is just a general business license which anyone can get, not a license to perform certain trades or skills (pest or weed control treatment providers must be licensed by the FL Dept. of Agriculture and Consumer Services)
- check with Seniors vs Crime (800-203-3099) or the Better Business Bureau and check references before hiring
- get as much as possible in writing (details of work to be done, price, guarantee)
- avoid paying in advance and make payment check out to a company name, not an individual’s name
- get receipts for all payments
Welcome Wednesday Summaries provided by:
Joan Testa, VHA North VP
[email protected]
(817) 247-9677
**********************************