Americana Cove

Waning Summer stirs thoughts of our Florida home

Jul 30, 2004

PRAYER FOR AUGUST
This month, Dear God, we pray for all who hold the future of Mobel Americana i.e. Americana Cove in their hands by the decisions they make.
We pray for our Manager, Dawn Simmons, Nick Ferraro, responsible for new and used home sales.
We pray for the MAROA Board collectively and individually as they meet the challenges facing them; particularly since they volunteer their time.
-We thank You for the two lovely ladies, Mary and Barbara, who keep the records in the office. Continue to give them patience and wisdom.
We also pray for the men who maintain our park and keep it looking so beautiful.
Let us not forget the residents who are homebound, in nursing homes and in hospital.
Finally, we pray for all residents who "keep the home fires burning" while those of us who are away enjoy cooler weather.
God, keep all safe, and may those who are away return refreshed to help make this the finest park in the area.
May Your Holy Spirit guide each of us to use the precious gifts You have given so generously in all that we do, say or think.
Thank You, Blessed One.
.Amen.
John Whittredge Hill, Chaplain.


THE ROSEBUD submitted by Marilyn Waltz
A young, new preacher was walking with an older, more seasoned preacher in the garden one day. Feeling a bit insecure about what God had for him to do, he was asking the older preacher for some advice. The older preacher walked up to a rosebush and handed the young preacher a rosebud and told him to open it without tearing off any petals.
The young preacher looked in disbelief at the older preacher and was trying to figure out what a rosebud could possibly have to do with his wanting to know the will of God for his life and ministry.
Because of his great respect for the older preacher, he proceeded to try to unfold the rose, while keeping every petal intact. It wasn't long before he realized how impossible this was to do.
Noticing the younger preacher's inability to unfold the rosebud without tearing it, the older preacher began to recite the following poem.

It is only a tiny rosebud,
A flower of God's design;
But I cannot unfold the petals
With these clumsy hands of mine.
The secret of unfolding flowers
Isn't known to such as I.
GOD opens this flower so sweetly,
While in my hands it would die.
If I cannot unfold a rosebud,
This flower of God's design,
Then how can I have the wisdom
To unfold this life of mine?
So I'll trust in Him for leading me
Every moment of my day.
I will look to him for His guidance
Each step along the way.
For the path that lies before me,
Only my Heavenly Father knows.
I'll trust Him to unfold each moment,
Just as He unfolds the rose.


FROM THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Board of Directors wants to thank all of the shareholders who took part in the recent 4-question ballot. Every ballot question was approved by over a 2/3 majority. There were 453 votes mailed out and 365 votes were returned. For various reasons 12 ballots were spoiled and not counted.
Question 1, widening the entrance received an 85% (311) yes vote.
Question 2, the transfer of seawall funds and change in reserve funding required only a simple majority but received 89%(325) yes.
Question 3, the repair of roads and quad aprons won an 88% (323) yes vote.
The 4th question on merging portions of lots was interpreted by our attorney as requiring 2/3 majority of votes cast. This decision was based on the fact that the areas referred to are not buildable lots and are not taxed as such. These spaces are considered common ground and meet the same requirement, as did the widening of the front entrance. This borrowing of areas from adjacent spaces will not cause a decrease in home sites or shares. The Board will review each case on an individual basis. This item passed by 85% (310).
The strong favorable vote indicates that the Board is on the right track. Many shareholders have expressed pleasure in being included in the decision making process. We appreciate the confidence the shareholders have entrusted in us and shall proceed with due diligence. We will continue to inform our shareholders of our plans and actions on your behalf. We will share with you any budget plans as they are developed so that you may vote on the budget in October with confidence knowing that your money is being handled with care.
The modified plans for the front entrance have been turned over to Drew Copley, the architect, for bidding. Soon we will choose a General Contractor who will obtain the necessary permits and then actual work can begin. We are excited with the new look for our entrance and believe that everyone will be well pleased upon completion.
By this time the new fence on the south side has been erected. The fence did not require a permit, as it was a replacement. The landscaping on the exterior and planting has begun. It looks great from both sides.
The engineering study has been slow. It seems to be proceeding on ?“Florida time?”, slow and slower. The engineer, Pat Montecki, at the time of her examination of our infrastructure did say that the items we indicated needed doing right away were necessary and we should proceed without waiting for her completed study. After the fence this is the road repair on the south side. Common sense, when applied to these areas, reinforces the need to proceed now. With the funding assured for the road repairs we have finalized those contracts and work will have started by the time this is published.
This has been a busy summer for all the members of the Board. A great deal of work has been done on your behalf. Much remains to be done. The new plans for handling the reserves and capital improvements will make the budget procedure much more transparent. We believe that with increased understanding of how the budget is formed will come the comfort of security in the present and the trust in the future.


FROM THE TREASURER?’S DESK: Hubert Dorsett
Following up on last month's article, I will now discuss the expense items I reported on before and show their growth (or decline) over the period FY2000 and FY2004 (budgeted).
FY2000
FY 2000 - FY 2004
Base Amt. Cost Growth/Decline
Administrative Expense $1,297,660 - 9%
Cost of Sales Expense $12,981
+ 78%
Ground Maint. Expense $116,816 + 40%
Maint/Repair Expense $38,387
+ 34%
Payroll Expense $296,419 + 20%
Utilities Expense $292,581 + 17%

The main cost growth areas are general fire/flood insurance, ground maintenance, taxes, utilities and waste disposal - all of which are non-discretionary items. They have to be funded. You can see above that Cost of Sales Expense (a discretionary expense) in 2004 increased from an average of $13,000 per year to $23,100. That increase was a conscious decision by the board, partially necessitated by our agreement with the sales company who has agreed to match dollar for dollar our advertising in attempting to attract new residents and fill our many vacant lots. It is also striking to note that our Administrative Expense has actually decreased since 2000, especially in light of the fact that buried in that expense is insurance, which has surged. The reason for the decrease may have a lot to do with shrinking debt service (interest and principle paydown), which as I said in the previous article was included in Administrative Expense. In fact, we have, just in the past 6 months, paid down the debt by almost $500,000, which means less interest expense. Payroll Expense has increased yearly, mostly due to pay raises for our employees and rises in unemployment insurance, payroll taxes and workmen's compensation.

At the Board meeting on 7 July 2004, I presented the Board with a proposed model of the budget through the year 2010. This model was developed by Wayne Brownlee and presented to the Finance Committee who further refined the model. In the proposed model, several goals and several assumptions had to be included in order to take into account "real world" circumstances. The first goal was that there would be no increase in assessments for the next several years, barring any unforeseen catastrophe, and in fact that assessments may even go down in the latter years. The second goal was to free up money for "immediate" spending on infrastructure and improvements. The first assumption was that expenses will tend to go up yearly - for purposes of the model, we used 3% for most items, 5% for taxes and 10% for insurance. If those expenses do not rise by that amount, the resultant savings would show in the next year?’s budget. The second assumption was that we would sell a minimum of 5 new shares per year, a figure that is probably too conservative (we have sold six already this year) but for planning purposes I chose to be on the conservative side. The third assumption regarded the renters - we assumed that rentals would only go up 3% per year. As some renters will probably become shareholders each year, thus providing funds to reduce the overall debt, there will be a proportionate reduction of debt service costs. The fourth assumption was that a modest amount of the Co-op notes would be paid off yearly, also reducing debt service.

With these goals and assumptions in place, and the decision to place approximately $950,000 in the reserve fund (about $775,000.00 currently invested in CDs?’and growing by about 5% per year) in a "locked account" category, to be used only when all other avenues have been exhausted, we will still have approximately $250,000 to place in a capital budget account within the reserve fund to spend on fixing, repairing, and, in some cases, replacing the infrastructure items in the park. For example, thanks to the fine work of the Planning Committee, we now know that we have been lax in previous years at taking care of some areas of the park which now are in dire need of repairing or replacing. This capital budget area of the replacement/reserve fund will now plan for those items in a conscious way: (1) The roads and storm drains will be repaved and replaced over the next three year (the first portion will commence in just a few weeks); and (2) The remaining replacement fencing around the park will be phased in over the next two years (one phase has already happened this year - the fence on the southern end of the property). Additionally, you will be able to see funding associated with planned repair and maintenance of the other infrastructure items such as sewer and water line repairs, painting of the clubhouse, re-roofing of the clubhouse (when it is needed), heating-ventilation-air conditioning (HVAC) maintenance and repair in the clubhouse, etc.

You may well ask where these funds come from. First, since we are "locking up" current replacement/reserve funds in investments, we will no longer contribute there but will, in fact, transfer those contributions to the capital budget account, ($133,455 in 2004) which is still a part of the replacement/reserve fund. Secondly, since we will be making all capital improvements from within the capital budget, that portion currently included in the FY2004 operating budget will be transferred to the capital budget ($90,620). Lastly, the $6,000 per new share sold will go into the capital budget account (so far in 2004, that amounts to $36,000).

By keeping the capital budget within the replacement/reserve fund, there will be no need for the membership to have to vote yearly to not fund the replacement/reserve fund, as I had mentioned in July's column. This model has been discussed with our accountant, and he has written the Board saying that in his estimation it is reasonably and soundly planned. He additionally applauds the idea of a capital budget within the reserve fund since it will give the voting membership transparency on what is actually being done with the money of the corporation. He said that it also meets the Florida statutory requirements of funding for the replacement and repair of infrastructure items from the reserve fund area. The model package has now been given to our lawyer for his review.

In next month's article, I will layout what has been planned for in the capital budget for FY2005 and FY2006, as well as report on the findings of the lawyer.


FROM THE MANAGER Dawn Simmons
RULE REMINDER:
Page 5 ?– Rule 6
Selling Mobile Homes in Park/Acceptance

A. Owners of mobile homes may not sell their mobile home nor transfer title without first notifying the Management in writing that their mobile home is being sold in place.

B. Owners must also secure approval of Management by obtaining in writing an exterior inspection of said home. Such inspection shall include, but are not limited to:
1. Washing or painting of home and skirting.
2. Flowerbed weeded and mulched.
3. Driveway seal coated, painted or cleaned.
4. Screen and vinyl windows in good condition.

C: Credit application and pre-approval must be done by Management and a Board Member prior to sale/purchase.

D: All prospective buyers must furnish verification of their age with a picture ID and/or driver?’s license, passport or government document.

Homes that are inherited by a friend or family member must adhere to the same procedure. If you have a buyer for your home and you are not sure of the procedure you need to call the Park Office at 526-9141.

DISCARDING OF TRASH: PLEASE READ.

The open roll off dumpster at the maintenance yard on Mt. Piney Ave. is NOT FOR GARBAGE OR RAW TRASH.

Please, if you must hand carry your trash to this site put it in the grey trash carriers the men use. With 90-degree heat everyday in the beating sun, it does not take long for this to become a major problem. Besides that it brings rodents, flies and maggots.

We have trash pick up twice a week---Please just set it out for the men.

The open container or roll off is to be used for all non-perishables, junk and furniture. It IS NOT to be used by any contractors working in the Park. This is strictly for residents use only.

Well Water Connection It has come to my attention that residents are taking it upon themselves to shut off well water connections not belonging to them.
The maintenance department find much too often when checking out a sprinkler system for our residents that the water has been shut off.
A couple of our residents have already suffered the consequence of this by losing their lawns.
Please, if it doesn?’t belong to you ?– don?’t touch it, unless you are the assigned caretaker for that resident.

Theft On Thursday morning, July 15th, a delivery of toilet tissue, paper towels and window cleaner was left at the Clubhouse. The Custodian came out to store these items, when a woman arrived with a large load of books. The maintenance man helped her to the library with the books, a couple of minutes at most, only to find on his return to bring in the supplies, that someone had stolen the delivery. Remember when something like this happens, YOU are only stealing from yourself.
Please bring it back.
Editor?’s Note ?– Not only are you stealing from yourself, you are running the risk, for a few measly Dollars of having a criminal record, after you are tossed out of the park.


WELCOME NEW RESIDENTS
by Frances McVay

ASBEL, Eugene D.
7051 Mt. Georgetown Drive
Previously Horncastle Estate

FEIGHAN, JR., Patrick
316 Mt. Saxon Avenue
Previously St. Sauver

NOLL, Patricia
124 Americana Court
Previously McArthur Estate

S. MOSES, Kathleen & Andrew (NY)
6810 Mt. Pleasant Road
Previously Sorenson


SUNSHINE REPORT August 2004
By Gerri Bassett

Deaths
Splendora Gilmore
Nellie Higgins (Former Resident)

Nursing Homes
Bob Ortel Carrington Place
Mitzi Delzell Shore Acres
Kay Brownsey Integrated Health Service
Dorothy Goldsworthy Fountains of Boca Ciego Bay
Doris Bolesta Freedom Inn at Bay Pines

Hospitals
Cameron Shults St. Anthony

August Birthdays
01 Mark Moran
02 Shirley Laforce
Marilyn Waltz
Ida Wilcox
05 Ruth Beauregard
06 Jeanette Stang
07 Fred Riesdorph
08 Kim Nemi
Kay Sebek
10 A. J. Kelleher
11 Elsie Cantos
Ralph Lang
12 Tee Phillips
Barbara Young
Alice Jones
14 Harriet Sigourney
Diana Rogers
15 Elaine Laberge
16 Dot Nemi
17 Roger Gerard
18 Claire Hart
19 Louisa Layner
20 Libby Hopkins
Dorothy Robinson
21 Jackie Hanlon
22 Ted Latreille
Ed McGrath
Jo Waldron
26 Adele Seaman
27 Harold Sturm
28 Carl Slaugenhaupt
29 Virginia Letterman
30 Richard Lettell
31 Tom Davis

August Anniversaries
01 Dot and Dick Nemi 46 years
02 Wanda and Jerry Spetz 52 years
03 Dolly and Bert Couture 19 years
06 Gene and Ted Latreille 50 years
10 Irene and Bob Kmieciak 58 years
20 Joanne and Tom Wallace
25 Marge and Ralph Lang 48 years
30 Alice and Doc Jones 63 years
Jerry and Mike Regan 47 years

Would you like your Birthday or Anniversary in the Forecaster? Let me know Gerri Bassett 525-6806 or E-mail me at Lyonsbassett @ Juno.com. Thank You!


MAA NEWS
by Joan Mitchell
Hello everyone.... We will soon be launching a new season! Our first luncheon will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 1st at noon, in the Club House.
Conrad, Rex and I will be happy to see you all. Ken and Nora Adell will still be up North. My thanks to Dorothy Kolb for doing such a good job with he 4th of July Supper.
Betty Chase has great plans for the Labor Day Luau on Sept. 6th. Please refer to her article in this issue for more details.
Enjoy the rest of the summer. We'll see you soon!

MANATEES HAVE TROUBLE IN OUR CANALS
by Pat Ruedy
Early morning on June 29th I noticed several manatees swimming in our canal near the golf course and drainage creek near the golf course. I noticed that there were some babies with their mother and other members of their family. I had never seen that small a baby before. I also noticed what appeared to be a large yellow-orange colored leaf on one of the larger manatees back. As the manatee swam closer I thought the colored thing was a grapefruit but not so. As it got closer I could see it was a crab trap marker buoy twisted around the manatee?’s front small arm. When this manatee turned around trying to get loose of the marker, a very small baby appeared by her side. Most of us think Mother Nature would help the manatee lose this marker, which she had become twisted up in.
Having just returned from a road trip, I had other projects to worry about and completed them. Later when I returned home, I saw this manatee still twisted up with this marker. We then tried to get the manatee closer to our dock by offering fresh water from the hose, hoping we would be able to free the manatee from the buoy. The manatee would not have any of our enticing it with fresh water.
Now I was concerned with two thoughts in mind. 1. The baby could not nurse from the mother due to the way the crab trap marker line was twisted around the manatee. 2. We had had a beautiful morning and could expect a stormy early evening according to the weather channel.
I then called the Manatee Research Institute at Eckerd College for help with this problem. In less than 30 minutes I had two young men here prepared to get in the water to help the manatee. By this time most of the other manatees in the larger group had left the area, the new mother and baby were left behind. Shortly four more people showed up to help. One of these people told me this manatee was spotted in Coffee Pot Bayou on Monday but she eluded capture by them. After several tries to get close to the manatee, it was decided they would need to capture her and the baby and get them out of the water to examine their health. They called for a help crew with a boat. By this time several residents were aware something was happening that they would like to witness.
When the boat arrived via trailer, it was launched and the round up started. The manatee was not too happy now and tried to protect her youngster by trying to swim away. The crew on the boat placed a large net in the water, making it a corral. As the circle of the corral net became smaller, the manatee and baby were captured, landed in the boat after several heave hoes. It took nine human bodies to get the two manatees into the boat.
Once the manatees were safely aboard the boat, the boat came to shore and the manatees were both examined, flesh wounds were treated and records were entered.
By this time the sky was black, and thunder was coming. I headed to the safety of my home at the other end of the block. The young lady did stop at my home later to thank me for calling them for help. She said they wished more people were concerned about the waterways, and what lives in them. This incident could have killed two manatees if not caught in time. The crab trap buoy was attached to a cement cinder block and could have dragged the mother down and the baby would not have been able to feed, as it was too new and small to be on its own.
My question is why crabbers leave traps unattended? Are they so poor they need to catch food to live? If you want crabs, get them at a store.
Same goes for fishermen, don?’t leave your line unattended. I have seen birds become entangled in fishing lines and what do you think happens to them then?
Our waterways are some of God?’s creatures?’ homes, don?’t litter it. They do not litter our homes.


LABOR DAY LUAU by Betty Chase
KITCHEN KREWE
It's almost September and time for our annual "kick-off' event!!
On Monday Sept. 6th at 4:30 pm we begin with" MAl TAIS" and "MIMMOSAS" and a snack table. At 5:30; dinner of Island Ham and Hawaiian Chicken Breast with sides and dessert. All this is followed at 6:30 by the Florida Beach Girls?’ Variety Hawaiian Show!!
Tables may be set-up after 10:00 am on the 6th. There will be two prizes of $10 for the best" luau theme" decorated tables. Also $10 each for the best man's and the best woman's outfit. So, get on your thinking caps and join in the fun!
Tickets for this event will be on sale preceding Bingo, Friday Aug. 23rd, at 5:30pm. Cut off for sales will be Thursday Sept. 2nd. Please, PLEASE, if you want tickets and can't find time or get a neighbor to pick them up, call Barbara Magada or Betty Chase and we will make arrangements for you. Perhaps some of the new residents do not know that all of this work is performed strictly on a volunteer basis!! All the profit goes back into improvements to the Club House. We have a wonderful group of hard working people and everyone should be appreciative of their efforts!!

I personally, wish to apologize for the Memorial Day in the Atrium. We never expected so many people! The seating was over crowded. We won't try that again. But just another reason to make sure we have a cut-off date and stick to it. I have been a softy and didn?’t want to hurt anyone by saying no. But I promise to stick to it this season! SORRY!!
Some things that all of you should do is to make sure that your tables are cleared and wiped off. It is not fair to expect a few very tired people to pick-up after you. Make sure you bring your own tableware for all our special dinners.
Tickets for the dinners are usually $7.00. Quite a bargain with no tax or tips to pay.
So, come to the Club House and share in an evening of neighborly gaiety and fellowship.

While I am writing I would like to set the records straight on our 50th Anniversary party. Jim and I paid for everything, which is normal when one has an affair at the Club House. Just didn't want anyone thinking any monies came from other funds! We sure had a BLAST!! We have three albums of cards and two of pictures. OUR LOVE TO ALL YOU WONDERFUL PEOPLE!!
Our special thanks to a dear friend that in the shuffle, wasn't mentioned. I am speaking of Peggy Church! ! She helped to co-ordinate the show and we appreciate her expertise as we did all who gave of their talents to pull this all together. I may be a little biased, but I think it was the best party we have been to in the eleven years we have lived here!! THANKS AGAIN AND AGAIN! !
Betty Chase, Kitchen Krewe


RED HAT CHILIES
VQM Linda Myers

Although we are few in number this time of year, the group has enjoyed good attendance at our functions.

At the June 15th. free movie," Something's Got To Give ", we had popcorn and soft drinks. We have received more requests for more movie days. Rosemary Kegebein and Jean Birtcher did a fantastic job hosting the "Day At The Movies ?“.

Queen Mother Marilyn has departed for the remainder of the summer to be with her family, due to the passing of her husband Bob on June 10th. I will be collecting money for the next couple of months for a donation to Hospice in Bob 's memory. My phone number is 525-0241.

There will be no functions planned for the month of August. Vera Hooks is presently working on a swim party for September. VQM Linda Myers is working on Bill Irle's Dinner Theatre for October.


DEAR CRAFTERS AND RESIDENTS- Let?’s Knit and Crochet!!
By Annette Solomon

This is the last month of patterns. Hope you are enjoying them.
These are for slippers and lap robes. Area Nursing homes and Hospice gratefully
accept slippers and lap robes for their residents. I am offering 2 patterns for
slippers. Of course, you may use your own pattern, if you wish.

Knitted Slippers:
Size l0 needles ?– use double strands of 4 ply yarn (about 2 oz. of each color for 1 pair)
Starting at heel: (you may leave l0 inches to sew heel when done) cast on 29 stitches.
1.Knit across.
2.Knit 9, purl 1, knit 9.
3.Repeat these 2 rows until there are 14 ridges, ending with row 2.
Continue for toe.
1.knit 1, purl 1 across row.
2.purl 1, knit 1 across row.
3.repeat these 2 rows, 4 times more. Then work row 1. Cut yarn, leaving an 8 inch end.
To finish: Pull 8 inch end through all stitches on needle and draw up tightly.
Sew or weave 2-3 inches to form toe. Sew or weave back of heel. You may single crochet every other stitch around top of slipper for 2 rows to hug ankle.
Trim with pompoms.

Crocheted Slippers:
Size l0 hook - use double strands of 4 ply yarn (about 2 oz. of each color for 1 pair. Start at toe end: Leave l0 inches to pull together, sew up toes and tie off. Chain 9 stitches.

1.1 sc in 2nd st from hook, l sc in 7 sts to end, ch 1, turn.
2.Work in back loop only, l sc in lst st, 1sc in each st to end of row, ch 1, turn.
3.Repeat row 2, 20 times more.
Foot; Do not turn.
1.Ch 1, and working on long edge of toe piece, increase to 25 sts as follows; 7sc 2sc in next, 7sc, 2sc in next and 7 sc. ch 1, turn.
2.Sc across 25 sts, chain 1, turn.
1.Repeat row 2 working in back of stitch for 20 rows or 10 ridges.
2.Fasten off, cutting 8 in., and sew or weave heel.
3.Add pompom or large buttons or bows.

Granny Square Slippers:
If you have leftover pieces of yarn and can make Granny Squares, I have a pattern to make very interesting slippers. The squares can be crocheted or knitted, and made in solid colors also. You need 12 square for one pair. The squares should be all the same size of either 3 or 4 inches. Bring these squares to a meeting next Fall, and we can sew these squares together, together!
Happy slippering!

Lap Robes: A lap robe should measure about 3 feet by 5 feet. Use any color and any pattern, whether knitted or crocheted, seed, ripple, shell, cable, Granny Squares, etc., fringed or unfringed. ?“Lady colors?” and/or ?“Manly colors?” are desired.

Hope you enjoy using these patterns. If you have any problems, you are welcome to bring them to any Monday night Crafters?’ meeting, and we will be glad to assist you.

Happy crafting!
P.S. Don?’t forget Rosemary and Jean! Join them all summer on Monday evenings between 6-9:00 p.m. in the Clubhouse. They are making items for the November Craft Bazaar.


TO ALL AMERICANA COVE RESIDENTS
By Tom Solomon

You are invited to meet at Rockingham Park in Salem, New Hampshire on Wednesday, August 25, 2004. We will enjoy harness racing, and lunch will be available. If you are visiting the New England area, please join us. Please call Tom Solomon at (978) 462-6056 for a reservation before August 10, 2004. Hope to see you there!


WELCOME
Are You A New Neighbor?
Are You On-line?
Are you enjoying our private park e-mail network?
Ask your neighbors if they like the Listbot.
Want to join? It?’s free.
Call Conrad Weiser to be a subscriber. 522-5008,
or apply by e-mail: maoa1999@aol.com


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 September for all articles, the 19th of August. Font size is number twelve.
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.
Emails to the Editor ?– If you are sending me an email for the first time please let me know by phone what your email name is. I get so much spam that I simply delete all unknown senders and have lost a couple of items this way. It is unfortunate, but once I know your sign on I will have a reference for the future. My apologies to the senders.
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.


MONTHLY BRIDGE LUNCH - It will be on August 18th. All Bridge players are welcome to come and enjoy some fellowship with their friends and neighbors.


ATTENTION ARTISTS by Annette Solomon
Any artists interested in pooling their talents are invited to attend any crafter?’s meeting in the Fall. More information in the next Forecaster.


ERRATA - In the June issue I received a thank you note from the Thomas family. Kathy Thomas wants you all to know that her name is still Kathy, and not Sue. I looked around to try to find someone to blame for this error, but no one was in sight. So, I accept the blame, and my apologies to the Thomas family. John Bassett


FROM MARILYN WALTZ. To our friends and Red Hatters at Americana Cove: Thank you for your love and support over the past year while Bob was ill and most especially at his passing. It is truly gratifying to live in a community where people are so caring.


DEAR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS - I want you all to know how lucky I am to live in Americana Cove where people really care about their neighbors. I was so lucky to have terrific friends that came to see me and kept me cheered up, while I was in Rehab, and I tell you that?’s not fun, but friends visiting make it easier.
Thanks everyone for the beautiful flowers, the many good books, wonderful food, fruit and gifts. You are all just great. Kay Jones


DUPLICATE BRIDGE
Gerri Bassett Director
Howell Movement

Sunday June 27, 2004
1) Betty & Tom Davis
2) Tie
Joy & Bill Slepin
Gerri & John Bassett


BROWN BAG LUNCHES - by Joan Mitchell
Thank you to Virginia Curtis and Vivian Linville for hosting the brown bag lunches during the summer months...what a fine job, too. They've been fun, and nice to be together as well. The July 14th lunch offered a cake to honor all the July birthdays.
The final "brown bag" lunch will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 11th. I hope to see you there. Please come and join us.


NEIGHBORHOOD CRIME WATCH - AMERICANA COVE
UPDATE By Barbara Magada,
St. Petersburg Police Department
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT
Everyone is cordially invited to attend our Annual Event on Tuesday, August 3rd., 2004.
Where? - At the Sunshine Senior Center, 330 -5th. Street North, 6: 00 P.M. to 7: 30 P.M.
Honoring all of our Neighborhood Watch Coordinators with twenty (20) years of faithful, outstanding service to the Neighborhood Watch Program. Please come and show your support for efforts of these representatives these past twenty or more years to keep this program running with the results of much less CRIME in our areas.
There will be Free Refreshments and a Raffle for the "CLUB"!
DIRECTIONS:- Take 4th Street N. South to 3rd. Ave. N,
Turn right to 5th. Street N. and the Sunshine Center is on your right.
There are two entrances, one on 5th ST. N and the other on Mirror Lake.
COME AND CELEBRATE!


ALERT BY THE EDITOR
I?’m one of those people who always want to know exactly what everything means, and those of you who know me probably get exasperated with me from time to time. Well, too bad!!
Anyway in my walks around the park I couldn?’t help noticing that the Vehicle or Real Property stickers everyone has to put on the window closest to the street, were not consistently applied. Some on the right, some on the left. Some in the center, I guess those are people who walk the fence on decision-making.
So having occasion to have to replace my sticker I asked the clerk at the tax office, ?‘is it on the left side looking out from inside, or is it the left side looking at the sticker from the street side??’
The answer is, it is for the property assessor going by, from the readable side, i.e. looking from the street side. Therefore those of you who carry their left arm on the left side of their body, when you face the window, the sticker should line up with your left arm. Of course if you?’re one of those difficult people who insist their left arm is on the other side of the body, I can?’t help you, but I can recommend a good psychiatric hospital.
Now you know. And I don?’t know what the penalty is for disobeying, probably several years in Siberia, but hey, mine is on the correct side, so I don?’t care what the penalty is!


HOW TO CALL THE POLICE:
submitted by Lucy LaBerge

George Phillips of Meridian Mississippi was going up to bed when his wife told him that he'd left the light on in the garden shed, which she could see from the bedroom window. George opened the back door to go turn off the light but saw that there were people in the shed stealing things. He phoned the police and told them that there were burglars in his shed. The officer asked, "Is someone in your house?" and he said no.
The officer replied that all patrols were busy, and that he should simply lock his door and an officer would be along when available. George said, "Okay," hung up, counted to 30, and phoned the police again. "Hello I just called you a few seconds ago because there were people in my shed. Well, you don't have to worry about them now cause I've just shot them all." Then he hung up.
Within five minutes three police cars, an Armed Response unit, and an ambulance showed up at the Phillips residence. Of course, the police caught the burglars red-handed. One of the Policemen said to George: "I thought you said that you'd shot them!" George said, "I thought you said there was nobody available!" (True Story) I LOVE IT...


POTPOURRI ?– compiled at the Editor?’s desk with additional contributions from many, including Lucy LaBerge, Conrad Weiser, Marilyn Waltz, Kay Sebek et al)

Thought ?– Try not to let feelings rule your life, they are good servants, but very bad masters.

Words to Live By ?– A smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.

Things to think About ?– Talk is cheap, because supply exceeds demand.

Truths ?– What is a free gift? Aren?’t all gifts free?

Old Times ?– I?’ll tell you one thing. If things keep going the way they are, it?’s going to be impossible to buy a week?’s groceries for $20.00.

Groaners ?– Said the ceiling to the wall, ?“hold me up, I?’m plastered?”: Did you hear about the stolen toilets? The police had nothing to go on.
A mangy looking guy goes into a bar and orders a drink. The bartender says, "No way. I don't think you can pay for it."
The guy says, "You're right. I don't have any money but if I show you something you haven't seen before, will you give me a drink?"
The bartender says, "Only if what you show me ain't risqu?©."
"Deal!" says the guy and reaches into his coat pocket and pulls out a hamster. He puts the hamster on the bar and it runs to the end of the bar, down the bar, across the room, up the piano, jumps on the keyboard and starts playing Gershwin songs. The hamster is really good.
The bartender says, "You're right. I've never seen anything like that before. That hamster is truly good on the piano."
The guy downs the drink and asks the bartender for another. "Money or another miracle, else no drink", says the bartender.
The guy reaches into his coat again and pulls out a frog. He puts the frog on the bar and the frog starts to sing. He has a marvelous voice and great pitch. A fine singer.
A stranger at the other end of the bar runs over and offers him $300 for the frog.
The guy says, "It's a deal." He takes the three hundred and gives the stranger the frog. The stranger runs out of the bar.
The bartender says to the guy "Are you some kind of nut? You sold a singing frog for $300? It must have been worth millions. You must be crazy."
"Not so", says the guy. "The hamster is also a ventriloquist."


ACTUAL NEWSPAPER AD ?– submitted by Jim Ponder
SINGLE BLACK FEMALE seeks male companionship, ethnicity unimportant. I'm a very good-looking girl who LOVES to play. I love long walks in the woods, riding in your pickup truck, hunting, camping and fishing trips, cozy winter nights lying by the fire. Candlelight dinners will have me eating out of your hand. Rub me the right way and watch me respond. I'll be at the front door when you get home from work, wearing only what nature gave me. Kiss me and I'm yours. Call (404) 875-6420 and ask for Daisy.
Over 15,000 men found themselves talking to the Atlanta Humane Society about an 8-week old black Labrador retriever. Men are so easy!


EXERCISE IS GOOD FOR YOU...
submitted by Marilyn Waltz
1) My grandmother started walking five miles a day when she was 60. She's 97 now and we don't know where the heck she is.
2) I joined a health club last year, spent about 400 bucks. Haven't lost a pound. Apparently you have to show up.
3) The only reason I would take up jogging is so that I could hear heavy breathing again.
4) I have to exercise in the morning before my brain figures what I'm doing.
5) I don't exercise at all. If God meant for us to touch our toes, he would have put them further up our body.
6) I like long walks, especially when they are taken by people who annoy me.
7) I have flabby thighs, but fortunately my stomach covers them.
8) The advantage of exercising every day is that you die healthier.
9) If you are going to try cross-country skiing, start with a small country.
10) I don't jog. It makes the ice jump right out of my glass.


PRACTICE YOUR ABC'S
Submitted by Linda Lou Fairbanks
Act silly
Believe in Magic
Create adventures
Daydream every chance you get
Enjoy life as much as possible
Find time for fun
Goof off
Hang upside down from trees
Imagine...
Join clubs
Keep it simple
Love all creatures
Make plenty of time for friends
Nap when you can
Open your mind to new ideas!!!
Play when you feel like it
Question the answers
Run with the wind
Sing favorite songs
Take days off
Uncover your talents
Venture out
Walk on the wild side
Xpect the best
Yield to the moment
Zzzzzz peacefully at night


WOOLWORTH'S STORES GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN
By Gerri Bassett
The reason for writing this article is because I have a personal interest in Woolworth?’s. I started working for them when I was 17 years old. Put in almost 20 years with over 5 years in Florida at Northeast Shopping Center after my first husband died. Hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.

F.W.Woolworth started out with nickels and dimes and it turned into a multi-million dollar business. He lived like a king and built a building as grand as a castle and the tallest at that time. His grand daughter Barbara Hutton inherited his money and had expensive spending habits. She had seven husbands including actor Gary Grant. She was called the poor little rich girl. F. W. Woolworth?’s brought the family millions but it also brought unhappiness.
Franklin Winfield Woolworth began life in humble surroundings, born February 13,1852 in Great Bend, New York. He lived on a farm and his father, Dan Woolworth, was very strict and disciplined his boys with a lot of hard work. Life on the farm was tough and each boy had only one pair of boots for school. Frank?’s parents were too poor to send him to college so he left school at 16. He hated farming. He wanted a job inside where he would be warm and dry.
In 1871 at 19 years old he left home in Watertown NY in search of his fortune. His first job was at a Dry Goods store where he was eager to learn and work for nothing. He didn?’t know the first thing about sales, making change or displaying merchandise. It was difficult but he stuck it out and after 18 months Frank was making $6.00 a week working 14 hours a day.
In 1875 at the age of 23 at Bushnell he took a job as a salesman, but he was miserable at it. He could not get customers to buy more than what they came in for. His wages were cut in half and he suffered a breakdown and was unable to work. So he went back to his parent?’s home and the next 18 months he lay in bed. During this dark spot in his life a good thing happened. A blonde named Jennie was hired. She was 23 years old and she moved into the Woolworth home to help. She was very pretty with blue eyes and helped to take care of Frank and they fell in love. They were married on June 11, 1876 in the Woolworth home. With a bride to support, Frank got himself out of bed. He accepted a job from his old boss Moore & Smith and moved back to Watertown, NY.
That was in 1875 and the country was in a deep recession. The retail business was hit hard. To move merchandise Frank?’s boss decided to try a 5-cent line of merchandise. Stores did not sell at fixed prices in those days and it was up to the customer to bargain with the sales clerk. Then Frank?’s boss put him in charge of his 5-cent line away from the other goods. Frank laid out items and the customers loved it. Week after week Frank did the same thing. So Frank decided it was so popular that he needed to have a complete store. A 5-cent store was unheard of, so it was a big gamble. By now he had a young daughter, Helen, to support. So Frank left his job and went in search of his first store.
Frank went to the small city of Utica, NY where the sidewalks were crowded with shoppers. Property there was too expensive for Frank so he had to settle on a side street. He named it the ?“Great 5 cent Store?”. He opened on a Saturday and by the end of the first week he had $240.00 and that was a lot of money in those days. But it was too far away from the hustle and bustle of the downtown streets so the novelty wore off and the customers stopped coming. After 3 months he decided to close up, so his first attempt was a failure. He learned a lesson he never forgot, location was everything.
In June of 1879 he packed his bags and headed off alone to Lancaster, Pennsylvania, a small Quaker city. Frank learned from his first store, location was the key to success. Never again would customers have to venture off the main street. From then on he always located on a main street. He was looking for locations where buses or streetcars were picking up people or dropping them off. He proved to be right because as soon as the doors opened customers crowded the store. He made $127.00 in a single day and that was the most he had ever made in one day. The steady stream of customers in and out of his store made Frank think big.
He opened his second store on one of the busiest streets of Harrisburg, PA, and hired his younger brother to run it. He knew he could only have so many items for five cents and make a profit. Two months later he opened his third store in 1879 in Scranton, PA, and then introduced a second price of ten-cent items. A new sign was hung, ?“The Five And Ten Cents Woolworth?’s Brothers Store?”. Now with three stores he had to set some rules, everything in cash, and he bought all the merchandise. He finally allowed the customer to handle the merchandise. Frank was the first to make shopping for the customers a pleasure. His business was growing fast and so was his family at home. His second daughter Edna was born July 12,1883 but she saw very little of her father growing up. Frank traveled a lot to find new store locations. Any money he made went right back into the business.
In 1885 he opened several more stores, some were co-owned with family and friends. Frank liked to say they were all one big happy family but he was in charge. Keep the jewelry cases polished and keep the prettiest girls behind the counter. He had a report daily from each store to keep on top of sales so he knew how they were doing.
Frank moved his family to Brooklyn, NY and he celebrated by buying his first new home. Jennie was hoping he would slow down and spend more time at home. By now he had 3 children but he still was not home much.
In 1892 when Frank was 42 he took his first trip by ship to Europe and fell in love with it. Frank fell in love with Europe. He liked everything about it. By 1895 sales of Woolworth and Company passed the million-dollar mark for the first time.
Style was important to Frank, so in 1901 he moved his family into a mansion that had 30 rooms and bought all the fine things for his home. Frank was now on one of New York?’s fashionable streets where he wanted to be. The economy bloomed and so did Woolworth?’s empire. By 1900 Frank Woolworth had 120 stores in the U.S., but at age 49 he was still nothing but a shopkeeper to high society.
Frank?’s empire was growing faster than his waistline when it was announced to the public that he wanted to do something to carry his name long after he was gone. November 15, 1911 he erected a building designed to impress the world. The Woolworth Building was built; it was the highest in the world. It took two years to build. By 1913 the Woolworth building loomed high above the New York skyline and at 709 feet it was the tallest in the world.
At age 61 Frank had finally made his mark, but he did not stop there. This time he built a mansion on 18 acres in Long Island. He called it his summer retreat and filled the rooms with antiques, but had little time to enjoy it. By now Jennie Woolworth was 61 years old and her second daughter Edna had passed away. Edna had committed suicide. She left behind a 4-year-old daughter, Barbara Hutton. After her death Barbara was shuffled around from relative to relative.
By this time Frank was also ill along with Jennie. Frank was overweight from eating all those rich desserts. On April 4, 1919 Frank spent his last day at the office. Feeling poorly he went to his house on Long Island and 4 days later he died at the age of 67 years old. Jennie died at the age of 71. The two were buried in a granite tomb at Wood Long Cemetery in the Bronx.
Frank left none of his money to charity; all was given to the family, which led to tragedy and scandal. When Frank died control of F. W. Woolworth went to his brother Harold, and three partners. The estate was worth 78 million dollars and divided with the children and Barbara Hutton, who was 11 years old at the time.
In 1962 Woolco discount store was created but closed their doors in 1982.
In 1963 Woolworth added Kinney Shoes, Richmond Brother?’s in 1969, Footlocker in 1974 and Lady Foot Locker in 1984 and Kids Foot Locker in 1987.
In July of 1997 Woolworth closed their doors forever and that was a sad day for a lot of people.


QUIZ ?– submitted by Joseph Michael Gerhard
"A Quiz For People Who Know Everything"
1. There's one "sport" in which neither the spectators nor the participants know the score or the leader until the contest ends.
What is it?
2. What famous North American landmark is constantly moving backward?
3. Of all vegetables, only two can live to produce on their own for several growing seasons. All other vegetables must be replanted every year. What are the only two perennial vegetables?
4. Name one of two sports in which the ball is always in possession of the team on defense, and the offensive team can score without touching the ball?
5. What fruit has its seeds on the outside?
6. In many liquor stores, you can buy pear brandy, with a real pear inside the bottle. The pear is whole and ripe, and the bottle is genuine; it hasn't been cut in any way. How did the pear get inside the bottle?
7. Only three words in standard English begin with the letters "dw." They are all common. Name two of them.
8. There are fourteen punctuation marks in English grammar. Can you name half of them?
9. In what state are the lakes from which the "Los Angeles Lakers took their name?"
10. There are seven ways a baseball player can legally reach first base without getting a hit. Taking a base on balls-a walk-is one way.
Name the other six.
11. It's the only vegetable or fruit that is never sold frozen, canned, processed, cooked, or in any other form but fresh. What is it?
12. Name six or more things that you can wear on your feet that begin with the letter "S."


WHAT IS A GRANDPARENT? Submitted by Marilyn Waltz
(taken from papers written by a class of 8-year-olds)

Grandparents are a lady and a man who have no little children of her own.
They like other peoples?’.

A grandfather is a man grandmother.

Grandparents don't have to do anything except be there when we come to see them. They are so old they shouldn't play hard or run. It is good if they drive us to the store and have lots of quarters for us.

When they take us for walks, they slow down past things like pretty leaves and caterpillars.

They show us and talk to us about the color of the flowers and also why we shouldn't step on "cracks."

They don't say, "Hurry up."

Usually grandmothers are fat, but not too fat to tie your shoes.

They wear glasses and funny underwear.

They can take their teeth and gums out.

Grandparents don't have to be smart.

They have to answer questions like "Why isn't God married?" and "How come dogs chase cats??”

When they read to us, they don't skip. They don't mind if we ask for the same story over again.

Everybody should try to have a grandmother, especially if you don't have television, because they are the only grown ups that like to spend time with us.

They know we should have snack-time before bedtime and they say prayers with us every time, and kiss us even when we've acted badly.

A 6 year old was asked where his Grandma lived.
"Oh," he said, "She lives at the airport, and when we want her we just go fet her. Then, when wewe're done having her visit, we take her back to the airport."


NEW YORK NIGHT "2005" COMMITTEE
by Jean Cruz, 528-9553
Greetings New Yorkers still in town and to those who have escaped the Florida heat, we miss you. ..! The planning for our "NIGHT" is still in full swing with the help of our remaining members. We have discussed the menu, the overall layout for the party, and entertainment, possibly provided by some of our members as well as bringing in local entertainers with a N.Y. theme. All ideas and suggestions are still being taken into consideration. We have decided to hold any future meetings the 2nd Monday of every month, at 6:30 PM, in the CLUBHOUSE. We hope this is agreeable with everyone.
Many of us had never met prior to the forming of this committee though we are long time residents of the park, but we are having fun preparing for this memorable occasion. So, to all New Yorkers, come and join us. ..! Have a wonderful summer and to those who are away, see you in the Fall...!


WISER AND OLDER
submitted by Jim Ponder
An old farmer had owned a large farm for several years. He had a large pond in the back, fixed up nice; picnic tables, horseshoe courts, basketball court, etc.
When the pond was built it was properly shaped and fixed up nicely for swimming.
One evening the old farmer decided to go down to the pond and look it over, since he hadn't been there for a while.
As he neared the pond, he heard voices shouting and laughing with glee.
As he drew closer, he could see a bunch of young women skinny-dipping in his pond.
He politely made his presence be known to the women, and in doing so, he watched as they all went shuffling to the deepest end of the pond.
One of the women shouted out to him, "We're not coming out until you leave!"
To which the old man replied, "Miss, I didn't come down here to watch you ladies swim in the nude nor did I come here to make each one of you get out of the pond naked.
I merely came down to feed the alligator".

The Moral of the Story: Old age and treachery will triumph over youth and 20s?’ skills.
Always has. Always will.


TO ALL MY "KEEPERS"
submitted by Lucy Laberge
I grew up in the fifties & sixties with a practical parent -- my mother, God love her, who ironed Christmas wrapping paper and reused it and who washed aluminum foil after she cooked in it, then reused it.
She was the original recycle queen, before they had a name for it... It was the time for fixing things -- a curtain rod, the kitchen radio, screen door, the oven door, the hem in a dress.
Things we keep. It was a way of life, and sometimes it made me crazy. All that re-fixing, reheating, renewing, I wanted just once to be wasteful. Waste meant Affluence. Throwing things away meant you knew there'd always be more.
But then my mother died, and I sat in my kitchen that Sunday afternoon reading her old handmade cookbook in a binder, I was struck with the pain of feeling all alone, learning that sometimes there isn't any 'more.' Sometimes, what we care about most gets all used up and goes away...never to return.
So...while we have it ... it's best we love it....and care for it.....and fix it when it's broken.....and heal it when it's sick. This is true.... for marriage..... and old cars.....and children with bad report cards.... and dogs with bad hips..... and aging parents.....and grandparents. We keep them because they are worth it, because we are worth it.
Some things we keep. Like a best friend that moved away, or that we do not see as often as we used to -- or--a classmate we grew up with.
There are just some things that make life important, like people we know who are special.....and so, we keep them close!


"ANSWERS TO QUIZ"
1. Boxing.
2. Niagara Falls. The r1m is worn down about two and a half feet each year because of the millions of gallons of water that rush over it every minute.
3. Asparagus and rhubarb.
4. Baseball and cricket.
5. Strawberry.
6. The pear grew inside the bottle. The bottles are placed over pear buds when they are small, and are wired in place on the tree. The bottle is left in place for the whole growing season. When the pears are ripe, they are snipped off at the stems.
7. Dwarf, dwell, and dwindle.
8. Period, comma, colon, semicolon, dash, hyphen, apostrophe, question mark, exclamation point, quotation marks, brackets, parenthesis, braces, and ellipses.
9. Minnesota. The team was originally known as the Minneapolis Lakers and kept the name when they moved west.
10. Batter hit by a pitch; passed ball; catcher interference; catcher drops third strike; fielder's choice; and being designated as a pinch runner.
11. Lettuce.
12. Shoes, socks, sandals, sneakers, slippers, skis, snowshoes, stockings.
...Well, now you know! Feel any smarter?
Try to be the kind of person your dog thinks you are.


EDITOR'S NOTE ?– I received a nice letter from some residents saying how much they appreciated the Forecaster, as it is presently, and wish information from the Board to always be included. As well they particularly wanted to thank Bill Hart for his efforts over the last few months. In their opinion the current Board has showed more care and consideration for the residents than was sometimes shown previously.


COMMUNITY NOTICES
There is located at the maintenance shed on Mount Piney Avenue an air pump which 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 TABS 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 top tabs can be placed in the jar provided 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