Americana Cove

Are the Snowbirds Restless?

Feb 28, 2004

THE VALUE OF PRAYER
Most of us have observed a miracle that has been a result of prayer. There have been other factors, such as medical knowledge increase. More and more of the medical profession are acknowledging the power of prayer.
Prayer has seven important ingredients. They are:
I. SALUTATION: There are many ways of addressing God: i.e., Gracious, Holy and Heavenly.
2.PRAISE/ADORATION: Continuing from the above; Wonderful, Praiseworthy, etc.
3.THANKSGIVING: For the marvel of creation, our intricate bodies, you name it. Count your blessings.
4.PETITION: This is the one we never forget for ourselves, but too often omit it for others.
5.CONFESSION: None of us is perfect, so we need to remind ourselves of our sinfulness every day.
6.REPENTANCE: After admitting our guilt we need to make an about face.
7.LISTEN: How many times have we heard our conscience or that still small voice without reacting, then later wishing we had acted? Omission is just as bad as commission. It is too late when we are dead!
AMEN?
John Whittredge Hill, Chaplain


MAROA NEWS
Paul Mattina, President

Since we are now in a pattern of staggered meetings, this is a reminder that there will be no Town Hall meeting this month. The next Town Hall will be on April 2nd, the first Friday of the month. March 17th will be an important Board meeting, as we will be having our accountant, Mr. Charles Godels, make his annual presentation on the status of the budget for 2003, which is the audited comparison of predicted and budgeted expenses compared to actual expenses for the year.
Speaking of meetings, it was announced at the last MAA luncheon that there were three meetings to be held in as many days: the Planning Committee that same day, the Rules Committee the next day and the Town Hall meeting on the third day. All residents of the community are invited to these meetings, yet there was a very poor showing. Three people showed up for each of the first two, and of the three, two were Board members. The Town Hall also had a very small audience, in spite of the fact that a number of issues of interest to the community were discussed. I hope future meetings will attract a larger audience.
Remember, all important announcements and notices of meetings are posted in the designated places around the park, and in the glass-enclosed bulletin board attached to the wall just outside the main clubhouse entrance, near the mailbox. This bulletin board is the main point of communicating information from the Board to residents. Please check it regularly as you go in and out of the clubhouse.
It was very gratifying to have had the Board vote in favor of naming the fishing/picnic area ?“Founders Park?” on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the purchase of the park and our founding as a ?“Resident Owned Community?”. It is a fitting way to honor those who had the foresight and perseverance to take on this daunting task and make it successful. Has anyone wondered where we would all now be, had a developer purchased this property instead? We hope to have a plaque ready for the anniversary picnic scheduled for March 27th, which will be used to dedicate Founders Park.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the Committees that were formed for the first time this past year, for all the time and effort each has put in undertaking the tasks assigned for the betterment of the park. Each committee has met many times, preparing recommendations for the Board to consider. A Board member chairs each committee, but the majority of members are interested shareholders who have volunteered their time and talents. This arrangement allows more input from members of the community, and better communication between all of us.


ADDENDUM by Ed Mosakowski , Secretary
Board members and a shareholder attended the ROC Forum meeting at Bay Aristocrat MHP, held on 13 February. This was the annual meeting to elect the new Board of officers. The Bay Aristocrat park manager presented an informative insight into park management.
Attorney Bob Tankel was the featured speaker. He discussed some concerns regarding some proposed legislation that might impact cooperatives.
The next ROC Forum meeting is scheduled for the 9th of March at Club Chalet.


FROM THE MANAGER: Dawn Simmons
REMINDER TO ALL RESIDENTS:
We are sorry but we are not permitted to lend out MAROA Equipment. It is against Company Policy.
NEWSPAPERS:
When sitting out your newspapers with the curbside trash PLEASE put them in a plastic grocery bag or some sort of container. Otherwise they blow all over the street creating more work for the maintenance men.

Page 7 ?– Rule 11 Exterior Maintenance ?“A?”.

A. The exterior of the mobile home and any other structures (and all of the space) shall be maintained in a neat appearance, including (but not limited to) painting and repair. The home should be washed annually. Painting of the home should be done every five (5) to six (6) years, or as deemed necessary by Management. The exterior surfaces of the mobile home, including but not limited to the eaves, trim, skirting and downspouts, shall be kept free from mildew or discoloration. Peeling, fading or damage to the exterior surface must be repaired and painted. Failure to maintain the exterior of the home in accordance with these standards will constitute a violation of these Rules and Regulations and be cause for eviction from the Park as set forth in 723.061, Florida Statues. No new sand (stippled) painting will be allowed because of its high susceptibility to mildew.

PARK INSPECTION:
March 15 ?– 19th. will be the last park inspection done before our northerners leave for the summer. Many homes and awnings are still in need of power washing. Please make arrangements to have this done prior to your leaving if you don?’t feel comfortable having it done while you are gone.

Page 8- Rule 12 Yard Maintenance :A

A. Each Resident must arrange for the care of their own yard. Anyone not living in the Park on a twelve month basis must assign a caretaker to weed the planter and trim shrubs in their absence. Failure to do so will result in Management hiring someone to do the work, and the Resident will be billed for such work by applying such charges to Resident?’s rent account.

To date 169 northern residents have not filled out their caretakers form. This year residents who have failed to make arrangements for maintaining their property while they are away will be billed a minimum of $50.00 each time it is required to be done. This amount will be billed to you ?– failure to pay will then be placed on your maintenance fee or rent account.

Please make arrangements to pick up a form at the office, get the information filled out and return it to the business office before leaving. It is also important that the office have a current telephone number for your summer residence. Some people have not given us that number.


SPEEDING:

Residents on Americana Drive are reporting speeders very early in the morning and late at night. Remind visitors of the 15 mph. speed limit.

Another resident pointed out to me the safety hazard of two people riding side by side in the road on bicycles. She has a point as it takes up one lane. We do not want someone to be hit by a car.

SPRINKLERS:

Please maintain your sprinklers so they do not spray in the street. All zones need to be timed. No more than 20 minutes per section.

No watering after 9 am or before 7 pm. Water on your designated day, and only once a week is permitted. While riding the Community I observe sprinklers still running after 9am. and the street drenched with standing water. The streets in the park are less damaged and worn from traffic than from standing water penetrating the black top. We have to ask our residents for help to adjust their timer and sprinkler heads.

TRUE GREEN

Starting in March True Green will be the new Pest Control Servicing Americana Cove. The three monthly sprayings for the Community will remain January, May and September.

We encourage our residents to have their yard sprayed the other three alternating months. We would like to get our grass back looking the way it used to, and we need your help to do that.

They are also offering residential service and the price will depend on the number of residents who will use their pest control and fertilizer service.

Prices will be: 1-50 Units $25.00 per visit
5-100 Units $23.00 per visit
101-200 Units $21.00 per visit
201-300 Units $19.00 per visit
301-400 Units $17.00 per visit
401-500 Units $15.00 per visit
501-600 Units $12.00 per visit
601-700 Units $10.00 per visit

If you would use the sign up sheet and pick up a form you could spend as little as $30.00 per year for the three services. Please take advantage of this great offer. Many of you can easily spot a yard that only takes advantage of the three services provided by MAROA.

Since we have ten wells on our property it would seem logical that all residents should get their yard serviced with fertilization, pesticide and broadleaf weed killer, don?’t you think?

RE: FORECASTER (from the MAROA office)
The office will do a mail out of the Forecaster for $2.00 each. Please have your money in before you leave.
Having people supply us with the envelopes last year did not work out too well. The envelopes were varied in size and the Forecaster itself, depending on the insert, cost more or less to mail. If you have mail address stickers you could bring them in also.


WELCOME NEW RESIDENTS
by Frances McVay

BODLE, Katherine & James (CT)
350 Mt. Oak Avenue 527-1228
Previously Pennacchini Estate

FITZGERALD, John & Madeline (MA)
7020 Mt. DeLeon Road
Previously Morelock

JUDOVICS, Valdis & Joan (PA)
7144 Mt. Bristol Court
Previously Dusza

PETRITES, Charles (NE)
7120 Mt. Essex Drive

MINTON, George & Marie (MA)
7116 Mt. Bristol Road
Previously Consolino

SCHAFFER, Mary Ann
HOWELL, John R.
7007 Mt. Essex Drive
Previously Crowell

WINKLE, Loretta
362 Mt. Richmond Avenue 527-1576
New Home


SUNSHINE REPORT March 2004
By Gerri Bassett

DEATHS
Elizabeth Goode
Former Resident
Della Bullington

NURSING HOMES
Bob Ortel Carrington Place
Mitzi Delzell Shore Acres
Claire Mueller Grace Health Center
Kay Brownsey Integrated Health Services

HOSPITALS
None known at this time

BIRTHDAYS
01 Bob Lescarbeau
George Chamberlin
02 Jerry Mussman
Bob Thomas
03 George Myers
04 Ray Macomber
06 Kay Brownsey
Dick Linville
Marjorie Dodd
07 Cecile Lescarbeau
Barbara Tumminia
Rick Tumminia
08 Lou Ayotte
Roger LaRochelle
09 Susanne Darowski
Jeanette Imbrogulio
11 John Hill
Donald Park
Pat Wright
12 Anne Kocher
13 Helen Sikorski
14 Gladys Dunn
Bill Kocher
Lois Vogle
15 Bob Gamble
17 Pat Porretto
18 Doc. Jones
Claire Mosakowski
19 Norine Fisher
20 Bill Fullerton
21 Ed Slade
Rosemary Kegebein
22 Dick Nemi
Mary Ann Fairlie
Barbara Strehl
23 Shirley Wadsworth
23 Drew Fairlie
24 Norma MacPherson
25 Bob Larson
26 John Mello
30 Irene Goulet
31 Shirley Dunn
Edward Kimak

MARCH ANNIVERSARIES
06 Helen and Norm Sikorski 61 years
07 Jan and Rene Renaud 61 years
10 Mary and Fod Wright 60 years
18 Vivian and Dick Linville 65 years
25 Betty and Jim Chase 50 years
28 Nora and Ed Clifford 53 years
28 Barbara and Rick Tumminia 14 years


MEET YOUR NEW NEIGHBORS
Gail Jones, Welcome Lady
When you meet Pearl Walker who now resides at 503 Mt Piney Ave. 525-8599 You know immediately that she is one that brings joy into her life each day through active living.
We have Jeanne Pavlik to thank for introducing her to our park. Pearl comes from Thunder Bay, Ontario and worked there for 28 year in the reforestation division of the government. She planted seedlings and nurtured them for four years until they were big enough to be shipped. She first wintered with her husband in Rockport, TX, then eight years in Orange Park, Fl. followed by sixteen years in nearby Palm Way Village. Pearl is proud of her son and daughter and boasts of two five generation families. She likes to travel, has no particular hobbies but enjoys meeting people and has a keen interest in becoming an active community participant.

The former home of Sophie Pennacchini is now shared by her son, Ralph Nicols and her daughter and son-in law, Penny and Jim Bodle. Their new phone number, 527-1228.
They enjoy their skiff and hope to spend a lot of time with it after completion of renovations.
All are active and make good use of our exercise facilities. Penny enjoys tennis and is delighted with all the friends she has met there on the court. Right now they are coming and going with work schedules but expect to spend increasingly more time in our community. When planning entertainment activities and you need an excellent piano accompaniment Jim Bodle is a good resource. With a twinkle in her eye, Penny relates, "You know I couldn't have had a better mother, when I'm here I still talk to her". They have particularly appreciated the assistance of their helpful neighbors, Jim and Joan Mitchell.

Bob & Denise Fitzgerald live in Stoneham, Massachusetts. They have been married 25 years and have 3 children and 6 grandchildren. Bob retired six years ago from the Gillette Company where he worked as an engineer. Newly retired ( January 1st ), Denise also worked for the Gillette Company in Human Resources. They have lived in Weymouth, MA., Wheaton. II, Los Angeles, CA. and Sandown, NH. Recently they have taken on the project of remodeling the home at 7124 Mt Hawthorne Rd. that belonged to Denise's parents. Both love to travel and have been to Italy, Hawaii, London and Paris as well as many of the Caribbean islands. Both love to walk and participate in many of the charity walks around Boston. Bob is an avid golfer. Denise enjoys exercising and spending time at the beach.


WELCOME LADY. Marcia Fay
Bill and Mary Ann Stanley are not really new residents. They rented a place on Mt. Piney two years ago after which Mary Ann and Linda Bresco bought Phil and Doris Tarpley's on Americana Court the next year. In December 2003 Bill and MaryAnn bought Genevieve Green's home at 7114 Americana Drive.
The Stanley's are originally from Rockwood, Michigan but just moved to Port Austin, Michigan. They are both retired teachers. Bill taught High School Business and was coach for sports. Mary Ann taught Elementary Kindergarten through third grade. They have four children, three sons and one daughter, and usually come down in November and return in April. They love the pool, gym and many other activities and really like all the nice people in the park.

Betty and Jim Chase 50th Wedding Anniversary
You are cordially invited to attend a -
Complimentary Dinner
Celebrating the 50th Golden Wedding Anniversary for James & Betty Chase
Date: April 3rd 3:30 pm.
Place: Club House
TICKETS WILL BE DISTRIBUTED
BY BARBARA MAGADA
AFTER THE M.A.A. AND OLD TIMERS LUNCHEONS.
DEADLINE MARCH 31 ST
BRING YOUR OWN TABLE SETTING


OH! FLORIDA by Dick Fay
Oh! Florida, for spaceship skies,
For gators and egrets;
And puffy cotton clouds on high,
And scenes no one forgets. "
Oh! Florida, Oh! Florida,
Thy beauty is sublime;
From flaming sunrise to sunset,
You?’re awesome all the time.
Oh! Florida for scrub bluejays,
And morning mockingbird songs;
Their melodies delight the heart,
And smooth out earthly wrongs,
Oh! Florida, Oh! Florida,
Your climate is the best;
And when my life comes to its end,
It's where I want to rest.


COVE CORNER
By Ken Hopkins

HANTAVIRUS ?– Back in 1993 there was an outbreak of a virus associated with mice in the four corners region of the U.S. This includes Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah. Due to climactic conditions, the population of native mice exploded and several people became ill after having contact with mouse droppings. A common scenario was that someone would sweep their floor containing the droppings, particles would become aerosolized, and the victim would breathe in the virus particles. Acute respiratory distress and even death was often the result. The virus was the Hantavirus, later called Sin Nombre Virus or SNV. Based on my recent discussion of fruit rats, one of our residents suggested I look into the possibility of Hantavirus infection here in Florida and so I did. After contacting the Pinellas County Health Dept. and some research on the Internet I found that the risk of Hantavirus in our area is very small. The only cases on record were in the Miami area, recorded in 1994. I have had further correspondence with CDC indicating that Hantavirus has not been reported in Rattus Rattus, our fruit rat. Not to say that it couldn?’t happen but it doesn?’t seem that you have to walk around with a gauze mask on. You should be aware of the need for good rodent control as previously discussed. In particular, if I were sweeping out a home troubled with rat droppings, I WOULD wear a gauze mask just to make sure that I didn?’t breathe in particulate that might possibly be contaminated. No sense in making medical history.

BIRD FEEDERS ?– While we?’re talking about our neighborhood rats, let?’s talk about bird feeders. We all love the variety and beauty of birds that flock to our park. Many of us have bird feeders hung in our trees to attract songbirds and similar. As the birds feed, they dislodge birdseed that falls to the ground and feeds what? That?’s right, good ol?’ Rattus rattus gets a free meal. One of our residents recently reported on the listbot that rats had invaded his home. He called the City of St. Petersburg rodent control man who came out and immediately commented on his half filled bird feeder. ?“You will never get rid of the rats in your home if you continue to supply them with this convenient food at your back door. They?’ll feed out here then come in to your house for the night!?” I used to own a bird feeder. However, with all the concern about rats I discarded it. Our park rules prohibit feeding wild animals including birds. I encourage all of you who have bird feeders to discontinue their use in an effort to help your community get rid of this infestation of rats. Our feathered friends are more than capable of feeding themselves in our mild climate. One of our residents asked me the other day, ?“Why the park doesn?’t do something about these rats??” ?“WE are the park,?” I responded

NEWS! ?–John Bassett, our editor needs an assistant. He needs someone to help with some proof reading and light typing. Although John obviously ties his travel schedule to the Forecaster, emergencies do arise and he could sure use someone to help out and cover for him on those occasions when he must be away. The Assistant Editor (doesn?’t that sound nice?) should be literate and online. How about giving John a call to chat about your possible interest in this position, or the Editor position.

SPOTLIGHT ON YOUR NEIGHBOR ?– Play Ball! George Kissell has been hearing that cry since he first began to play baseball in 1940 with the St. Louis Cardinals baseball organization. In fact, he was playing minor league ball in Hamilton, Ontario while also playing college ball. George hails from Evans Mills, NY and grew up farming although baseball was always his first love. His entire career has been devoted to baseball as a player, manager, coach, talent scout and currently field coordinator. When I asked George, who has lived in Americana Cove since 1968, what he did before he retired, he was quick to respond, ?“I have not retired. I am still working.?” He is understandably proud of his 65 year career in organized baseball, all with one employer, the St. Louis Cardinals. George has been instructing new players during spring training since 1946. In fact, one of his students, Fernando Vi?±a, was so grateful he gave George the Golden Glove he won as a player. In recognition of his contribution to player development, George was recently awarded the Roland Hemond Award. He is also in the Missouri Baseball Hall of Fame. George is particularly pleased that his grandson also now plays and coaches with the Cardinals. George said he likes the decorative changes that management has made, such as improvements to the laundry and other areas. He also commented that the monthly maintenance fee has gone up quite a bit from the $50 a month he used to pay in 1968 if he paid a year all at once. Next time you feel like talking a little baseball, George would be a good guy to look up!

COMMUNITY ASSOCIATIONS SHOW ?– The annual free Community Associations Day and Trade Show will be held on March 5th at the Pinellas Expo Center, 10601 U.S. Hwy 19 North. The show is aimed at unit owners and residents of condos, co-ops, homeowner?’s associations and similar. The day will include panel discussions and question and answer sessions on community living. The show will also include 120 exhibitors with products of interest to community associations.

LA CLASE DE ESPA?‘OL ?– That?’s The Spanish Class for you Gringos. Back in January, we started a Spanish class for interested residents. We have had an average of over 35 people for the six weeks of the class. Those strange sounds you hear coming from the mouths of our residents may not necessarily be Canadian French. They may be speaking Spanish. Congratulations to all who stuck it out. Although the class is over, I?’m confident that many of the students will continue their studies and go on to fluency in Spanish! Hint?…maybe we?’ll do it again next year.

NEW VISION TEST REQUIRED ?– Hey youngsters. If you are older than 80 years young, you will need to take a new vision test to renew your driver?’s license. A new law went into effect January 1st requiring everyone older than 80 to have a vision test in order to renew their license. You can take the test at the Dept. of Motor Vehicles when you go to renew your license. However, you can still renew your license by mail if you have a qualifying eye exam from a physician who fills out the appropriate certifying paperwork available through the state.

PROJECTION SCREEN ?– Thanks to Gail Jones for her donation of a projection screen to MAA. The Boat Club needed a screen for a presentation and Gail generously offered hers for permanent use by any of the member clubs who might need a screen for a similar presentation. The screen is kept in a closet in the Atrium and is available for use by any of the MAA organizations when needed. Thank you, Gail!


MAA NEWS FOR MARCH
Bob Larsen, President
MAA Council will meet at 10:00 am in the Atrium on Tuesday March 2.
Tickets for St. Patrick's Day Dinner will be sold preceding the MAA Luncheon Meeting on Wednesday March 3.
The annual White Elephant Sale will be Saturday March 6 from 9:00 am ?‘till 1:00pm. Lunch will be served starting at 11:00am. Set-up will begin on Friday March 5 at 10:00am. Workers will receive free hot dogs.
We will celebrate St. Patrick's Day on Sat. March 13 with a typical "corned beef and cabbage" dinner served with beer and snacks at 4:30 pm and dinner at 5.30pm.followed by entertainment; a Leprechaun Show by Donna Cutting. Tickets are $7.00. Table set-ups can be done following the pancake breakfast about 11:30am
This year will mark the 10th anniversary of the purchase of the park. A BIG celebration is in the makings. The Park Picnic on March 27th at the fishing pond will feature an organ grinder and monkey, an Uncle Sam juggler, and a roving magician. Also boat rides and Anne Kocher, card reader. Bring a dish to pass, a folding chair and your meat to grill and beverage. Things get started at 2:00pm ?‘til ??
March is always a busy month so be considerate of others and share the clubhouse! There is plenty of room for us all!!


TO ALL NEW RESIDENTS AND NOT SO NEW;
WHAT'S IN A NAME? By Annette Solomon
To all those residents who have not attended the Old Timers Luncheons, you are cordially invited to attend our luncheons on the 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month from September to May.
Five years ago, my husband and I became new residents of Americana Cove (formerly Mobel). When we read in the monthly Forecaster "Old Timers luncheon", I said "How nice, a luncheon for the old timers around here. That can't mean us. We are not old. We don't belong there so let's not go." So we didn't go.
A few weeks later, my curiosity got the better of us. So we attended our first Old Timers Wednesday luncheon. We were warmly greeted. We paid about $3.00 each for an annual membership, were given a name tag and told that we were members and could attend luncheons twice a month. FREE. WOW! Such a deal! Please note the annual membership is now $3.50.
At the luncheon, we received valuable information from the Old Timers officers about coming activities, dinners, parties, guest speakers and special events etc. Then the chairmen of various clubs informed us of their various functions. There was something for everyone. We were overwhelmed! We were hooked!
Even though we try not to miss a luncheon, we are still not old. We are proud to be an Old Timer. Mr. Webster defines an old timer as a person of experience and only indicates seniority in age.
New residents, young and old, join us and experience the friendship of your older generation. You will be known as old timers someday, and you can impart your wisdom on the future new residents.

P.S. The lunches are wonderful and you might even win the 50/50 drawing. We won
the drawing at our second luncheon.


WHITE ELEPHANT SALE?—Saturday, March 6
There are only a few days left before the sale?—so if you?’ve got something you?’d like to donate, please get it to the Clubhouse pronto!
Dot Kolb, who has taken over the Jewelry Table, is looking for bracelets, necklaces, and other sparkly things. Peggy Hubrich is putting together "cheer baskets". She needs wine, liquor and small snacks.
Set up will be on Friday, March 5 at 10:00 a.m. As everyone knows, many hands are needed to sort and price all the treasures that have been collected. Free Hot Dogs will be available to the Friday workers. Nametags will also be issued Friday morning. These tags are for those that are working the Sale on Saturday. Saturday workers are asked to be in the Clubhouse at 8:00 a.m. to put the final touches on their tables.
The White Elephant Sale hours are 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Betty Chase and the Kitchen Krewe will be serving a light lunch on Saturday.
Questions? Contact Beck Hopkins (525-8411) or Pat Filhauer (525-2458).


BOWLING LEAGUE
By Diane E. Turner
I can't believe it! Our banquet is being held this month! Of course there are many events this month but the annual bowling banquet will be on Wednesday, March 17th, the Irish day of celebration, at a local restaurant. Please sign the registration sheet at bowling to confirm your reservation. This officially ends our season and what a wonderful season it has been. Before it's over and everyone scatters, I'd like to say this is a great group of people who met once a week for great fun and camaraderie. Thank you for joining our group. As always we encourage you to come and join in the fun. If you need transportation, don't hesitate to call 521-4317.


RED HOT CHILIES ?– Marilyn Waltz, QM
The Red Hat Chilies cordially invite the gentlemen of our park to become Honorary Red Hatters. This means you can wear a red cap with a purple shirt and attend some of the Red Hat functions. The Red Hat Society enjoys a special camaraderie and people like talking with us when we are out in public having fun. If you are interested in becoming an Honorary Red Hatter, please give the Queen Mother a call at 528-2731.

Beck Hopkins and Diana Rogers are hosting our Bunco Party on Friday, March 26 in the Atrium from 6:30-9:00 PM. Please see the bulletin board for sign ups.

We will be renewing our RHS charter on April 2, 2004, and we look forward to another exciting year.

Regarding the Gala RHS Luncheon at the Tradewinds Islands Resort on April 17; there are three chapters hosting this large event. Ticket sales have been brisk and you are urged to make your reservations with QM as soon as possible. Please refer to email for luncheon choices and please share it with your buddies.

And finally, there will be an important meeting on March 4th in the Atrium at 3.30pm.
Happy Red Hatting


LINE DANCE UP DATE Norine Fisher
COME JOIN IN. I'm having a birthday line dance party for my 70th. Come and have some cake and coffee. EVERYONE is welcome. Come and dance, watch or listen to the music.
I would love to see all my friends. The time is 12:30 to 2:30 PM on Monday, March 22nd at the clubhouse. Remember, you don't have to be a line dancer to enjoy the party.
Also, March 29th will conclude our line dancing for this year. I hope that all the dancers enjoyed the exercise to your body and also your brain, remembering all of the steps. All of you performed beautifully.
Until next January, keep dancing!!


VESPERS MARCH 2004
Gerri Bassett
Come to worship with us every Sunday until Easter, the service starts at 4:50 PM on Sunday evenings with an informal hymn sing. Everyone is welcome. We need your support so invite a friend and come. There is always special music, not only by the choir but also by talented people who live in the park. Snacks and fellowship follow with your friends and neighbors after the service.
If you like to sing the choir still needs more singers, so just come to practice on Friday mornings at 8:45 AM in the main hall.

Vespers Pastors

7th Pastor Rick Thompson
Riviera United Methodist Church
14th Rev Tom Norton
Christ United Methodist Church
21st Randy Jakab
Riviera United Methodist Church
28th Pastor Doug McMahon
Woodlawn Presbyterian Church


SHUFFLEBOARD CLUB NEWS
By Jo Waldron
Before I start the report, remember our monthly meeting this month is at 1.00pm, and not at our customary 9.00am.
I hope you all have your track shoes ready because you?’ll need them this month!
The Red & Black tournament is first, it?’s on Monday, March 1st. You must have played 8 Monday games or been involved in the park tournaments to qualify. You should arrive at all the tournaments by 8:30 a.m.
The Friendship doubles will be held on March 8th-9th & 10th at Down Yonder. The singles are March 15th-16th & 17th at Park Royale. Carol Slade is in charge of the Friendship trophy party this year. It?’s being held in the Atrium on Tuesday, March 23rd from 2 to 4 p.m.
The Jubilee tournament will be at Island In The Sun on March 10th. See Tom Solomon for details.
Then on Thursday & Friday, March 11th & 12th we have the Blue Sky tournament at Clearwater. Their trophy party is on Friday, March 19th from noon to 3 p.m. at Shady Lane Oaks.
Novas will have their tournament on Thursday & Friday March 18th & 19th at Palm Hill North.
Another American Tournament is being held on Wednesday, March 24th at Silver Lake. This is open to all Americans, your level of skill doesn?’t matter, it?’s a fun time, be sure to sign up.
On Saturday, March 20th at 5:30 p.m. we have our Park Banquet/trophy party. Annette Solomon is in charge, you?’ll hear more about this at our March meeting on the 6th.
The winners in our park doubles were:
MAIN EVENT
1st Nick Misciagna & Don Harris
2nd Roger Lafleur & Dave Vogle
3rd Ed McGrath & Willy Williams
4th Frank Pereira & Popi Genhart
CONSOLATION
1st Jo Waldron & Lois Vogle
2nd Shirley Wadsworth & Theresia Volk
3rd Doreen McGrath & George Abodeely
4th Ray Macomber & Chris Kelly
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL

When you see Beck Hopkins around the park give her a big ?“Thank you?” from the shufflers. She is the one responsible for our new, permanent, pancake breakfast signs. Our own master woodworker, Leo Laberge made a frame for the lawn sign. We are now set for years to come.
As cream rises to the top, each year some members go above and beyond what?’s expected of them. There are no trophies given for this so I am taking advantage of my pen and nominating my choices.
First of all for banquet king and queen, Tom and Annette Solomon. I won?’t list all of their contributions but I think Tom should be recognized for spearheading the innovations on our courts and Annette for stepping in to chair our parties. And to both for ending our Sunday afternoon doldrums with ?“Horse Collar?”.
Then, there?’s Lillian Harris always making sure the teams we play have their coffee and cookies, always there when we need her. It?’s difficult for a club to function without a ?“Lillian?” watching out for them.
Finally, my award for ?“Mr. Nice Guy?”, you already know who it is, don?’t you? Whenever his name is mentioned for anything, you?’ll hear someone say, ?“He?’s such a nice guy?”. He?’s our worker bee, waxing discs, cleaning the courts, and doing whatever he sees that needs doing. His other name is Don Sackfield.
Thank you all for your help in making our club the BEST!


PAR SEEKERS GOLF
By Mike Regan
I want to thank the following members of our Rules Committee for coming up with the new rules for play at Mainlands. Thanks to Chairman Ken Hopkins, Pete Lambert, Oliver Ferrer, Will Williams, and Sally Corliss. If you need a copy of the rules, please see Pete Lambert or Mike Regan.
The results of the Canadian Open are:
First John Vidumsky
Second Ed McGrath
Third Milene Wingrove
Fourth Leni Lambert
Al Wingrove was Low Gross
The results of the US Open are:
First Carol Dunn
Second Bob Fitzgerald
Third Tom Lambert
Fourth Ray Sieben
Jim Mullendore was Low Gross
More fun events are coming up with the club championship on March 4th and our banquet
on March 22nd. All those interested in being president of Par Seekers for the next two
years please call Drew Fairlie. Remember to have fun!


DUPLICATE BRIDGE by Gerri Bassett
Shirley Beauchamp Directors
Mitchell Movement
Sunday January 25, 2004
North & South

1) Michelle Willett & Elizabeth Chapman
2) Beverly Hamel & Linda Cook
3) Jo Waldron & Shirley Beauchamp

East & West
1) Betty & Tom Davis
2) Daphne & Dick Gunton
3) Gerri & John Bassett

Sunday February 8, 2004
North & South
1) Joy & Bill Slepin
2) Agnes & Jerry Howland
3) Linda Cook & Beverly Hamel
East & West
1) Helen & Walter Smith
2) Betty & Tom Davis
3) Elizabeth Chapman & Michelle Willett

Sunday February 15, 2004
North & South
1) Joy & Bill Slepin
2) Helen & Walter Smith
3) Clara Roy & Anna Cormier
East & West
1) Daphne & Dick Gunton
2) Gerri & John Bassett
3) Donna & Ozzie Swett


DEAR CRAFTERS
By Annette Solomon
CONGRATULATIONS CLUB MEMBERS! We have won ribbons at the Florida State Fair. Congratulations to all who won ribbons and to all who submitted items to be judged.
BLUE RIBBON for 1st place
Claudette LeBrun: Braided rug
Jean Birtcher: Handmade antique vest
Annette Solomon: Counted cross-stitch eagle
RED RIBBON for 2nd place
Beck Hopkins: Wild woman pin
Beck Hopkins: Large kitten decoupage platter
Betty Forbes: 12 month plastic needlepoint door hangers
Edith Unverzagt: Knitted dark green afghan
Jean Birtcher: Embroidered jacket
WHITE RIBBON FOR 3RD PLACE
Grace Tighe: Aqua baby sweater
Rosemary Kegebien: Paper sculptured framed birds
Annette Solomon: Crocheted butterfly afghan
HONORABLE MENTION
Cathy Redpath: Petit point cottage scene
Every item submitted to the Fair was put on display in glass cases. We are very proud of everyone's efforts and accomplishments! God bless these talented hands!

At the March 3rd MAA luncheon, we will display these items with their ribbons, in front of the stage, for your viewing pleasure. Please come by and admire!
The Crafters are a very active group of ladies. The clubhouse, on Monday evenings, is filled with busy hands. One group is making decoupage plates, another large felt blankets, another baby blankets and baby hats, another doing beaded work and others are learning basic crocheting, knitting, embroidery and counted cross-stitch. Soon there will be special classes in macram?© and seed beading. See the bulletin board.
If you have a special talent in some type of arts and crafts and if you would like to share it with us or teach us, please let us know. We welcome all ideas.
Happy crafting to all!
See you there.


GARDEN CLUB NEWS
By Jerry Regan
Mr. Bruce Turley was our guest speaker at the February 10th meeting of the Garden Club.
Mr. Turley, owner of Wilcox Nursery in Largo, spoke to us about native wildflowers and how they can be cultivated to add beauty to our own gardens. He told us that February may be the dullest month for wildflower activity, however, wildflowers will be soon at work as the harbingers of spring. Beautiful Blue-eyed grass, a true iris, will grow in abundance along the roadsides producing blankets of blue. Tick Seed Coreopsis, Florida's State Wildflower, will produce beautiful yellow flowers, which can be planted in our gardens. Mr. Turley spoke of flowering trees such as Chickasaw Plum, and Watler's Viburnum, which start to bloom in February. Also, cultivars such as Mrs. Schiller's Delight and Indian Hawthorn bloom all year, are good for butterflies, and produce fruit for songbirds.
Mr. Turley brought many samples of wildflowers and bushes with him, describing each, and how they can work just as well in our gardens. Scarlet Sage comes in red, pink, and white, can be used in landscaping and will bloom most of the year. Mulley Grass is used in public landscapes along our streets and is the dominant grass used in Pinellas County.
He said it is good to combine grasses with wildflowers in the garden. Mr. Turley told us of many other plants and shrubs and gave us many good ideas for plantings. We are all encouraged to visit his Wilcox Nursery in Largo.
Members of the Garden Club attended the February trip to Bok Tower and AI Capone's Dinner Theater. (At this writing the trip has not yet taken place, but by publication date it will be over. I know both of these attractions are great fun and I'm sure a good time was had by all.)
The Garden Club Meeting in March will be most interesting, Vice President Lorraine Leroi has invited JENE to speak on Edible Landscaping. Our March bus trip will be to the Botanical Gardens and Heritage Village. These trips fill up fast, so if you are interested in going, come to the March 9th Garden Club Meeting and sign up.


NOTICES
Forecaster Deadlines
All items and other information for the Americana Cove Forecaster may be placed in the box just inside the entry doors to the Atrium, or sent electronically. All items to be in the original type, no photocopies please, in BLACK INK on full size 8 1/2 by 11 paper. Deadline for April for all articles, the 19th of March. Font size is number twelve.
Calendar ?– Deadline for entries will be the 17th of each month. Please note that all calendar submissions must come from, or be approved by the MAA. We have so many groups operating that I have to be sure that the MAA has approved the event date.
Forecaster Submissions ?– If you can send me your items by email, either by attachment, or just as part of the email, you will save yourselves money. (ink and paper) Thank you for cooperating.

MONTHLY BRIDGE LUNC - It will be on March 17th. All Bridge players are welcome to come and enjoy some fellowship with their friends and neighbors.

ANNUAL BLOOD DRIVE
Tom Priestley, Chairman
The annual blood drive will be held on Saturday, March 20th from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the parking lot. Lets all turn out, and a big ?“Thank You?” to everyone who participates in the drive.

THANK YOU from Otto Mueller
Otto would like to personally thank John Hill who has made several visits during the past ten months to call on and comfort Otto?’s wife, Claire, during her stay in a local nursing home. It has been a great source of comfort to both Otto and his wife to know that people here in Americana Cove care about each other. Thank you, John.

Thank you from Ted & Gene Latreille
Thanks to all the park residents who have sent cards and letters to express their concern about my health. Physically I am fine but since I had a slight stroke last July, the peripheral vision in my left eye has reduced my field of vision to the point the license bureau has suspended my license to drive. As I cannot get travel insurance and I would not venture to Florida without it, we are not down this winter. Again thanks to all who showed their feelings for me. Gene will be going down the first of April for a couple of weeks and we hope to be down this Fall. We certainly miss all of you.

THANK YOU Betty Forbes
"Thank You" doesn't nearly express my feelings for all the cards, thoughts and prayers that have been sent my way while I was in the hospital and recuperating.
To have so many concerned friends is a true Blessing!

THANK YOU ?– Morris D. Fink Thank you for your thoughtfulness. My family, Dave, Debbie, Cathy, Corky, Dale and Jo Ann all received the St. Petersburg Times article of ?“How We Met?”.
I wish you all had come in my house so I could relate personally, ?“The Rest of The Story!?” (John Laynor) did, and we discovered common WW II settings and experiences we unknowingly shared!?… We were comrades back in the 40?’s and never realized it!.

FROM THE EDITOR - Just a reminder that commercial notices are not allowed in the Forecaster and that includes commercial bingo and any references to commercial organizations in articles. So please stop trying. If it?’s that important I?’m sure the publisher will be glad to take your money for the ad.
Also if you have any comment about any of Americana Cove?’s social activities, please contact that club or group. The names of the responsible people are printed on the inside cover of the Forecaster. Thank-you.
Now I have heard from several residents that their computers will not take size 11 font type. There are a couple of possibilities to correct this. One is for you to buy a better computer. But as some of you may object, you wouldn?’t, would you, I may as well give in and start accepting size 12. Therefore effective immediately we will go to size 12.
And finally, once an event has been approved by the MAA and the date and time set, it can only be changed by the MAA, which means the President, or their alternate, must notify me of the change. I cannot accept changes coming from individuals, or heads of other groups. That defeats the whole purpose of bringing some order and control to the scheduling of events.
With respect to the Chase?’s 50th wedding anniversary party, please let Barbara Magada know your intentions as soon as possible, so that adequate supplies are obtained to celebrate this joyous occasion. Full details will be displayed on the various bulletin boards.


FRIENDS of the LIBRARY
By Linda Lou Fairbanks
"Reading makes immigrants of us all- it takes us away from home, but more important, it finds homes for us everywhere." -Hazel Rochman
We had a great turnout for February's meeting. Rita Lewis gave us a short report on our Candy Sale efforts and signed up a few more volunteers to continue with the sale in February. Thank you to everyone who bought a treat either for themselves or a loved one. Your donations will go to a great cause! We then spent some time proposing favorite books we'd like to see added to our READING LIST for next season. We came up with quite a wide variety of books and authors to choose from, and, as always, our wonderful leader Rita Lewis will research the list and get recommendations ready for our final approval at the March meeting.
Our book club Hostess for the month, Susie Doyle, gave a very detailed and a very interesting synopsis of James Patterson's Suzanne's Diary for Nicolas. Since I am an avid fan of Patterson's thrillers it was nice to read and discuss a totally different type of novel. We all agreed it was a positive reading experience and we'd look forward to reviewing similar books of this type in the future. Susie gave us a lot of biographical information, gleaned from the Internet and published interviews- Patterson is a Floridian and lives in Palm Beach with his wife and young child. Great job Susie!!!
In March our Hostess will be Joan Belanger. She will be reviewing another popular author- John Grisham. We'll be talking about A Painted House, a murder mystery. Please come and join us, even if you haven't read the book. It's still lots of fun to sit and exchange ideas and life stories with each other. Hope to see you there!


HOBBY SHOP
Leo LaBerge, President of the Hobby Shop, is looking forward to seeing everyone at the upcoming Hobby Shop meeting on Monday, March 1 at 9:00 a.m. At this meeting, Brian Birch will be doing a presentation on the Radial Arm Saw and the Belt Disc Sander.
There?’s something new in the Hobby Shop! Raymond Dix has generously donated a band saw for the Hobby Shop?’s use. Many thanks, Raymond!
We?’ve recently had a problem with some of the Hobby Shop users, breaking equipment and walking away without telling anyone. This is very dangerous! Be considerate of the other users. If something breaks, call Leo and let him know. Or, at least put a note on the equipment that?’s been damaged so others will know there is a problem.
The Hobby Shop and the Crafters?’ Club did a small product together during February. Dawn Simmons asked if the Hobby Shop could put together some birdhouses that would be given away at the Americana Cove Booth at the March Senior Expo. Hobby Shoppers, Ruth Healy, Gary Ebert and Brian Birch, whipped up the aviary residences. Lorraine Leroy, Jackie Gerte, Beck Hopkins and Rosemary Kegebein from the Crafters?’ Club, added color and personality to the birdie abodes.
Getting a key to the Hobby Shop is easy! Come to the Hobby Shop meeting, sign the liability waiver (that will also put you on our roster!) and pay $2.00. The Hobby Shop is located next to the laundry on Mt. Piney Avenue.


CUE CLUB NEWS
By Brian Birch
At our regular meeting in February we elected officers for the 2004-2005 season as follows:
President- Brian Birch; Vice President- John Mello; Secretary: Irene Goulet, and Treasurer- Nancy Hubartt. A special thanks to the Nominating Committee for their help in recommending the slate of officers and hearty congratulations to the officers! We appreciate your willingness to serve and help the Club!
It doesn't seem possible but it's true. It is time once again for our Cue Club Tournaments to begin! Men & Women's Singles- (Double Elimination) will begin the first week in March, followed by the Doubles- (Single Elimination). As usual sign up sheets will be posted in the billiards room. You don't have to be in the League to enter the Singles tournament, but you do need to be a member of the Cue Club ($3/yr to join or $30 for lifetime membership). Fees for entering the tournaments are $2 for the Doubles and $2 for the Singles. And, just a friendly reminder to those who might be interested, I will be available for last minute skills lessons during tournament play on Thursdays at 5pm. Best of luck to all the participants!
Once the tournaments have ended it will be time for us to get together and celebrate! The Annual Awards Banquet will be held on Thursday, March 25 in the Clubhouse. Social hour will begin at 5:30pm (where we will snack and drink a little) then dinner around 6:30pm, followed by the presentation of awards.
Lee Southard will provide the entertainment again this year. Tickets will be available during tournament play or you can see one of the officers. The price will be $7 per person. The last meeting of the year will be held on Monday, April 5th. We hope to see all our members there.


NEIGHBORHOOD CRIME WATCH UPDATE
By Barbara Magada
AMERICANA COVE
The next Crime Watch/Crime Prevention/Crime Patrol Meeting will be in the Clubhouse/Atrium
On Friday MARCH 12th, 2004 at 1:30 P.M.
Speaker will be from the S.P.P.D Officer Gary Swart, K-9 Division
Of course Refreshments will be available.
Please be sure to bring Friends or Neighbors
Coordinators: Barb Magada, Jim Chase & Conrad Weiser.
Let's Fill the Clubhouse

POTPOURRI ?– compiled at the Editor?’s desk with additional contributions from many, including Lucy LaBerge, Conrad Weiser, Marilyn Waltz, Kay Sebek et al)
Thought ?– Silences make the real conversations between friends. Not the saying, but the never needing to say is what counts.
Word Definitions ?– Conference Room; a place where everybody talks, nobody listens and everybody disagrees later on.
Words to Live By ?– Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity.
Old Times ?– I never thought I?’d see the day all our kitchen appliances would be electric. Why, they?’re even making electric typewriters now.

FOR THE LADIES submitted by Lucy Laberge
In the hospital the relatives gathered in the waiting room, where their family member lay gravely ill. Finally, the doctor came in looking tired and somber. "I'm afraid I'm the bearer of bad news," he said as he surveyed the worried faces.
"The only hope left for your loved one at this time is a brain transplant. It's an experimental procedure, very risky but it is the only hope. Insurance will cover the procedure, but you will have to pay for the brain yourselves."
The family members sat silent as they absorbed the news. After a great
length of time, someone asked, "Well, how much does a brain cost?" The doctor quickly responded, "$5,000 for a male brain, and $200 for a female brain."
The moment turned awkward. Men in the room tried not to smile, avoiding eye contact with the women, but some actually smirked.
A man unable to control his curiosity, blurted out the question everyone wanted to ask,
"Why is the male brain so much more?" The doctor smiled at the childish innocence and
explained to the entire group, "It's just standard pricing procedure. We have to mark down
the price of the female brains, because they've actually been used."

Things to think About ?– Regrets are just lessons we haven't learned yet.
Beth Orton

"To conquer without risk is to triumph without glory." Pierre Corneille

"Never let yesterday use up today." Richard H. Nelson

"To conquer fear is the beginning of wisdom."Bertrand Russell

"A person can grow only as much as his horizon allows." John Powell

"Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that this new world is born." Anais Nin

"Life is easier than you think; all that is necessary is to accept the impossible, do without the indispensable, and bear the intolerable."

He that cannot forgive others breaks the bridge over which he must pass himself; for every man has need to be forgiven.

Pride is at the bottom of all great mistakes.

Real difficulties can be overcome; it is only the imaginary one that is unconquerable.

You never really leave a place you love. Part of it you take with you, leaving a part of yourself behind.

Truths ?– Everyone should carefully observe which way his heart draws him, and then
choose that way with all his strength.

Getting Old ?– submitted by Marilyn Waltz
An older gentleman was on the operating table awaiting surgery and he insisted that his son, a renowned surgeon, perform the operation. As he was about to get the anesthesia he asked to speak to his son. "Yes, Dad, what is it?"
"Don't be nervous, son; do your best and just remember, if it doesn't go well, if something happens to me ...your mother is going to come and live with you and your wife...."
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Some people try to turn back their odometers. Not me, I want people to know "why" I look this way. I've traveled a long way and some of the roads weren?’t paved.
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When you are dissatisfied and would like to go back to youth, think of Algebra.
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You know you are getting old when everything either dries up or leaks.
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If you don't learn to laugh at trouble, you won't have anything to laugh at when you are old.
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First you forget names, then you forget faces. Then you forget to pull up your zipper. It's worse when you forget to pull it down.

I can relate!!! - Submitted by Marilyn Waltz

While on a road trip, an elderly couple stopped at a roadside restaurant for lunch. After finishing their meal, they left the restaurant
and resumed their trip.
When leaving, the elderly woman unknowingly left her glasses on the table and didn't miss them until after they had been driving about twenty minutes.
By then, to add to the aggravation, they had to travel quite a distance before they could find a place to turn around in order to return to the restaurant to retrieve her glasses. All the way back, the elderly husband became the classic grouchy old man. He fussed and complained and scolded his wife relentlessly during the entire return drive. The more he chided her, the more agitated he became. He just wouldn't let up one minute. To her relief, they finally arrived at the restaurant. And as the woman got out of the car and hurried inside to retrieve her glasses, the old geezer yelled to her,.......
"While you're in there, you might as well get my hat, and credit card".


THANK YOU - from your neighbor Joan Geiger
My husband and I consider ourselves very fortunate to have found Americana Cove.
I'm sure everyone that lives here feels the same way. It is a wonderful environment with the very best of neighbors and friends, and having the Forecaster to reach them with a message is very special.
I want to thank the 157 shareholders that had enough confidence in me to cast a ballot for me in our recent election. Even though I lost in the election, I am grateful knowing that so many of you feel the same way as Frank and I. We've all had a pretty rough year with two different factions in our community both wanting what they consider to be the best for our community. But, that's pretty much the way it is whenever a large group of people come together. That's why it is so important for any Board to listen to all the shareholders. They all have an equal share in the ownership of the park. We need to pull together to be a cohesive community where everyone is given the opportunity to share their ideas about what is needed.
I also want to thank the board members for all the hard work and the many hours they have put in for the benefit of the park. And congratulations to the new board members.
You have a big job in front of you.
Again, Thank You.


COMMUNITY NOTICES
There is located at the maintenance shed on Mount Piney Avenue an air pump that you may use to inflate your bicycle tires.

Newspapers and Magazine Recycling
All newspapers are to be placed in the newspaper bins. Please do not put brown paper or plastic bags in the newspaper bins. The bins are only for newspapers.
A magazine bin is located at the storage compound on Americana Drive. Please take all your magazines to this bin.
Phone books should be taken to the dumpster on Mt. Piney. Do not put them in with your regular trash.
Aluminum Cans/Can TOPS and Scrap Metal
Please put these out on Tuesdays only, or late Monday evening for very early Tuesday pick-up, or take to one of the Old Timers Aluminum sheds. Do not put in the garbage compactor. It is for household garbage only. As the sale of aluminum contributes money to our social activities, please take the effort to segregate the cans from the regular trash. Aluminum can tops/tabs can be placed in a container in the clubhouse.
Yard Brush and Tree Trimmings
Pick up days are Tuesday and Friday. Place all brush and tree trimmings at the side of the road separate from the garbage. It must be contained in trash bags, plastic containers or bundled.
Dumpster
The dumpster at the Mount Piney location is for the use of residents who have scrap materials from work that they themselves have done. Contractors doing renovations or repairs to your property are to remove any such materials from the community and dispose of it at their cost.
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Kitchen Krewe .Ice Machines -To all residents and guests. Do not use ice from the kitchen
supply for your personal home use. Use ice from the ice machine in the Mt. Piney Avenue laundry. Ice in the kitchen is required for activities in the Hall and Atrium. Traffic through the kitchen area creates sanitary problems. Betty Chase -Kitchen Manager