Americana Cove

Super Bowl Time Again.

Apr 02, 2002

Forecaster Prayer:
Merciful Gracious God, we thank you for the month of February when we remember our Presidents. We think first of George Washington, "The Father of our Country" and then Abraham Lincoln, for freeing of the slaves. We are thankful for all of our presidents who have feared and revered you. President Bush is setting a wonderful example for us all.
We pray that all the leaders of our country will be led by Your Holy Spirit in the days to come.
Our prayers also go up to you for those presently engaged in a war to free us from terrorism. Watch over them, God. May the conflict end soon.
This is also the month in which Lent begins, with Ash Wednesday on the 13th.
Traditionally, we think of fasting or "giving up". However, there is much need throughout our land. Wouldn't it please You, God, for us to give sacrificially to those in need instead?
On the 26th, our Jewish brethren celebrate Purim in remembrance of their escape from the slaughter by Haman. This beautiful short story is found in the book of Esther in the Old Testament.
Let us renew our faith in you and remember that you still perform miracles.
Thank You, Lord. Amen.
John Whittredge Hill, Chaplain

From your 2002 President - Bob Larsen
As you know by now, I was elected by the Board to be your President. I will strive to do a good job and represent you to the best of my ability. We have a good Board of Directors to make decisions for you. I want to pass on my congratulations to Wilma, Pat and Ed on their reelection, and also to thank Ed Kelly for the great job he did as our President during the past year.

BOARD BITS
By Dick Nemi
I'm Baaaaaaaaack!!!!!!!
I seem to have a problem keeping quiet, so thought I'd get a few things off my mind. As you all know we now have a new full time manager, sales department and dealer on board. Over the past year or so there was much hard feelings in the community about replacing the manager. Well, it's a new era and time to move on! I ask that all our neighbors give the new regime time to acclimate and settle in. I'm sure that within the year, most of you will be more than happy with the results. I say most of you, as only in Utopia can everyone be pleased. What's past is past! Let's move forward!
There seems to be some misunderstanding on the use of the Atrium. All residents received a copy of the prospectus and by laws. If you notice, it plainly states, that if the Atrium is already scheduled, by someone or some group, they will not be moved by another function without prior approval of the user. It also states that the use of the Atrium will be submitted to the Manager at least fifteen days prior to the event for approval. The Board seems to always receive a bum rap if someone is unhappy. All we ask is that you read the information that you have received and you'll be surprised at what you will find. The Board is bound by these same documents.
To elaborate on the Forecaster Editor's article in the January issue about owning a share. The required down payment by the community is $3000. The interest rate is 8.25% amortized over 30 years with a balloon balance due on June 20, 2010, which will be renewed at the current interest rate on that date. This equates to a monthly payment of $195.33. Add to that the monthly maintenance fee which runs from approx. $115 for a quad lot to $185 for waterfront. Add property taxes and this will give you a comparison figure to see which is the best for you.
There have been some changes over the past few months, which you may not be aware of. One is the new tipster for the dumpsters. The old ones had reached the end of their useful life. The park purchased new tipsters, while the old ones had been rented. They will pay for themselves in a few short years, as well as extending the life of the trash bins.
By now all shareholders should know about the $10 increase to their monthly payment. This fee will remain for two years and has nothing to due with refinancing the park to replace the remaining seawall. This assessment was needed to replace the sections of the seawall, which were damaged in last summer's storms. The refinancing was to insure the walls would protect us against future storms.
I'd like to comment on John Layner's article in the January forecaster. I agree with him 100%. Wouldn't it be nice if all residents would take the time as John did, and give a vote of praise to our staff? Everyone likes a word of praise and no one deserves it more than our dedicated employees.
The election of the new Board was held on January 16, with Ed Kelly, Wilma Jones and Pat Ruedy re-elected to retain their seats. It was a close election with Paul Mattina losing by one vote! Congratulations to the winners and loser for having the courage to run. The election of officers was held the same night with Bob Larsen as President, Bert Zanaglio 1st Vice, Jerry Spetz 2nd Vice, Dick Nemi Secretary and Tee Phillips as Treasurer.
With the new seawall construction, it has been brought to our attention by the city inspectors that the downspouts from the houses on the canals may no longer divert water through the seawall. Most or these downspouts flow through a four or six inch pipe, attached to the downspout by a 90 degree elbow. The simple solution is to remove a section of pipe and replace it with a splash diverter.
The refinancing of the park to pay for the new seawall is now a done deal Closing was held on January 16. The Board is quite proud of the package it was able to obtain. The new package will allow the new seawall to be completed with no additional increase in the shareholders monthly payment.

January Article - Buying or Renting ?– by Cleve Ballentine
I am referring to the article in the Forecaster by the Editor. It reads, "The RAMA article by Cleve Ballentine is interesting".
The figures quoted were incorrect. This is not the Editor's fault. In my RAMA article I did say the cash flow from lot renters was $1.5 million annually. That was incorrect, and I apologize. The correct amount is $1.2 million annually, difference of $300,000.00, which affects the figures in the rest of the article. Lot rents run from $387 to $480, with an average of about $415. Thank goodness there is not a lot rent of $520 as stated, or we would have more vacant lots.
I note the use of the homestead exemption as an incentive to buy a share. There is no doubt about that, if you live most of the year in the community. This would equal about $50 monthly. However the majority of lot lessees are snowbirds, both American and Canadian. When I am questioned about the pros and cons of buying shares, I say it depends upon the circumstances, and refer them to the community office. I believe no one is mislead there.
When the campaign was on to purchase the park in 1994, the bank was requiring that over 50% of the homeowners be shareholders. (Ed note: I believe this was also a State requirement). The down payment to buy a share was $5000, but at the deadline a "nothing down" plan was offered. We were asked to sign up and if we wanted out later we could do so. I was one of the "last in, first out" group, because it did not suit our financial circumstances. I have never regretted that decision because a resident owned community is better for both lessees and shareholders.
What really bothers me about the example quoted to become a shareholder, pay $5000 down and finance the balance at 6.5% for 15 years, is that the monthly loan payment to the bank would be about $200 on top of the lot rent, which presently range from $125 to $l95 monthly (includes $10 surcharge for seawall).
We, the lessees, came into the community debt free and still are. With the Canadian dollar worth about 60 cents American, we are thankful that we didn't take the "nothing down" deal and buy a share.
In 1994 there were just over 50% shareholders and now the community is about 60% shareholders, compared to 32% lessees. (Ed. Note: the balance are MAROA wholly owned lots, either vacant or rented) Based on the last financial report, the cash flow from shareholders is $741,600 and from lessees $1,200,000. Why encourage lot lessees to become shareholders?
I do appreciate the Forecaster, and thank you for the opportunity to respond.

Editor's Note: Cleve is correct in saying that the numbers used were incorrect. I should have verified them before commenting, and apologize for not doing so. However the only point of the comment was to give some current lessees the opportunity to think about the economics of buying versus leasing.

Park News- from the Editor
Kudos to the MAROA Board for realizing that it was wrong to use the Park bus on those days when the residents without their own transportation were scheduled to go shopping.
And to those who don't already know it we have a new manager, Dawn Simmons. Dawn was here a couple of years ago working for Nick Ferraro, so has some familiarity with the Park and the residents, and we with her.
We wish Dawn all the best in this challenging job and know that, with always the best interests of the residents in mind, she will be a success.
I want to introduce you this month to Ken Hopkins, who will be the new columnist, and will bring you news of interest concerning the community on a regular basis. These columns will focus on matters of interest to the community as a whole, and sometimes on some of the individual residents, as well as other subjects from time to time. But the main focus will be on community activities, from Board meetings to social activities. I think you'll find the column interesting, and maybe a little thought provoking from time to time. Please welcome Ken aboard.
As a matter of interest one of Ken's first comments to me was the use of the word "Park", as in Mobile Home Park, (he doesn't like it) so from now on I promise not to use that expression anymore, but I'll let this one go just for old times sake!!
Congratulations to all the winners of the MAROA Board elections, and to Paul Mattina for coming so close. Hopefully Paul will stay interested in Community activities.
Which brings up another point, the twelve spoiled ballots. Folks please read the voting instructions carefully. It is important to have the vote. Don't spoil it by not following instructions. Perhaps some of you think that signing your name identifies you with whom you voted for. No, it doesn't, the inner envelope is separated away from the outer envelope, and counted only after all shareholders have been verified to the master list. This is an absolute requirement to ensure that no non-eligible persons cast votes. Only after this exercise are the separated pile of votes counted, and this under the strict supervision of an independent party. So, please in future, be careful.

Welcome New Residents
By Frances McVay

HARMON, Stanley & Edith (ME)
636 Mt. Piney Avenue 522-1528
Previously: Wendling

JOHNS, Arlie & Dorothy
689 Mt. Lancaster Avenue 520-8334
Previously: Dilday

LANE, Leon (KY)
4125 Mt. Piney Avenue 527-0813
Previously: MAROA

SCHIAVONE, Peter N. & Catherine
232 Mt. Curve Avenue
Previously: Mottinger

SEBEK, George (IL)
161 Americana Court
Previously DesRoches

THOMAS, Robert & Joyce (IN)
220 Mt. Piney Avenue
NEW HOME

SUNSHINE REPORT FEBRUARY 2002
Peggy Hubrich, Sunshine Lady

DEATHS
Earl Collins

NURSING HOMES
Jane Bryant Maria Manor
Bob Evans Carrington Place
Erna Wring Carrington Place
Mitzi Delzell Shore Acres
Anita Perrault Fountain Senior Properties
Carl Rosenquist Westminster Shores
Mary Higgins Shore Acres

BIRTHDAYS;
01 Joe Dusza
02 Wanda Spetz
04 Fern Deschants
05 Mary Jane Hill
06 Peg Sozanski
Nickolaus Volk
08 Jan Renaud
10 Lila Mussman
12 Beverly Park
13 Billie Ballentine
Cleve Ballentine
14 Ruth Brown
Eleanor Doyle
Marge Lang
15 Jeanne Pavlik
Stan Harmon
John Ossenmacher
Nora Adell Andrews
20 Doris Laberge
Fred Aubin
22 Dolores Rice
Peggy Church
24 Dick Jones
Jack Young
25 Leo Laberge
29 Mary St. Sauver

ANNIVERSARIES;
11 Carol and Ron Undieme 45 years
18 Peg and Dick Stannard 23 years
20 Bernadette and Edwin Holmer 53 years
25 Jane and Bill Swartout 13 years

SEA WALL REPLACEMENT:
By Dawn Simmons
We appreciate the patience of all who are suffering thru the seawall replacement project. There are a few questions that came up at our Park Standard Meeting that should be shared.
Q: 1. When is the sod coming?
A: After the job is done and the ground settles.
Q: 2. Who will be fixing the sprinkler systems?
A: The Contractor assisted by Mike.
Q: 3. Will we be able to connect our drain pipes to outflow pipes?
A: No---because of the extreme water shortage the City of St. Petersburg does not want house run off water being emptied into lakes, canals or rivers. Only 25% of run off water is retained in the Ground.

Renters Association (RAMA)
By Cleve Ballentine
On Monday, Jan. 14, the 2nd vice chairman and I met with the new park manager, Dawn Simmons. We gave her a review of RAMA's activities for the past three years. We are optimistic that she will do a good job as manager of our park.
Dawn has good credentials; the first park she managed was Whispering Pines, an open park with no age restrictions. Don Hazelton, vice president of the Federation of Manufactured Home Owners of Florida, lives in that park. He gives her high marks.
We have invited her to our Feb. 6th monthly meeting. We do not have a large agenda for that meeting, so bring your concerns and questions. We will endeavor to answer them, with the manager's assistance.
We are now starting our membership drive. It is important that we have over 50% membership, so that we can maintain our status as a Homeowners Association in accordance with Florida Statute 723.
Please help us out. First Vice John Dunn will be in charge of the campaign and the membership fee will be $5 for the year for each mobile home. We will start the collections at the Feb. 6th meeting. It is important that you know your lot number.
For those that are unable to attend that meeting, please give us a phone call and we will deliver your membership. The more calls we receive, the fewer house calls we will need to make. John Dunn at 527-2804, Pauline Begin at 528-2785, Mel Fisher at 526-7106, Cleve Ballentine at 527-3296.
Please make an effort to attend. It should be an interesting and informative meeting.

FROM THE GATE HOUSE
When the Business Office closes at 4:00 pm. the phones are switched to be answered at the Gate House. Any questions you have regarding Park business, please call the office between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm.
Our yearly visitors passes are now dark yellow for 2002. Any of your guests who have a different color need to go to the office for a current one. The Resident stickers are still blue and white. Remember all residents need MOA stickers of their vehicles including RV's.
We would like to cut down on the number of residents we have to stop because they do not have proper entry passes.
Please call the Gate House at 527- 3329 if you are expecting a tow truck so they will be let in. Your cooperation in all the above matters would sure make all our jobs are less stressful.
Thank you
Gate House Employees

MAA NEWS FOR FEBRUARY
By Betty Chase, Pres.
Marcia and Richard Fay are hosting a celebration in honor of their recent marriage on Saturday, Feb. 2, at 6:00 pm in the main hall. There will be refreshments and Charlie Regan and his banjo will entertain. They invite all their friends and neighbors to come and share their joy. We wish them many years of happiness!
The Super Bowl Party is Sun., Feb. 3, at 5:00 pm in the Club House. Vespers will be in the Atrium. Richard and Carolyn Norcross are in charge.
Monday, Feb. 4, tickets will be sold for the Valentine's Dinner/Dance. This will be held on Saturday, Feb. 16, at 5:30. Menu will be announced later. Price is $7.00.
Tuesday, Feb. 5, MAA Council will meet in the Club House at 10:00 am.
At 11:15 am on Wed., Feb. 6, The Ladies in Blue will entertain us prior to the MAA Luncheon. We would ask that you arrive early as to avoid interrupting the program and PLEASE -- do not talk during the performance!! Even if you are not listening, your neighbor is and it is not fair to the entertainers or the rest of the audience. Our own Faith Brundage is a member of the group and they practice hard and give many performances during the year.
Sat., Feb. 9, monthly Card Party at 6:30. Esther Louzon has been in charge of refreshments for many years and we want to thank her for her dedication.
Mon., Feb. 11, at 9:00 am the tickets will be sold for New England Night for $7.00. Hosting this year will be the Maniacs chaired by Ted and Barbara Jackson. Watch for the posters on the bulletin boards. The dinner is on Sat., Feb. 23, at 5:30 pm.
The Suncoast Barbershoppers Chorus is coming on Sat., March 9, at 7:00 pm. Tickets will be sold on Mon., Feb. 25, at 9:00 am for $2.00.
Don't forget the annual White Elephant Sale on Sat., March 2, 10:00 am till 2:00 pm. There will be a bake sale, jewelry, small electrical items, and small furniture, used odds and ends, and a lunch served. Set-up will be on Friday at Noon with hot dogs for the workers. There will be sign-up sheets on the bulletin board for helpers. Donations are being accepted by Betty Chase, Nancy Hubartt or Barbara Magada.
Several years back the MAROA board ruled that the hall would no longer be used for private functions. This was decided because of the liability posed on the park. Also, we have many clubs and organizations to accommodate. Memorial Services, Birthdays, Anniversaries and other celebrations are to be announced and advertised as open to all residents. Therefore, it then becomes a social affair for the whole park. You must go through whomever is in charge of the scheduling of the events and meetings in the park so as not to interrupt other organizations. Usually, the president of MAA does the scheduling. The past two years this has been my responsibility and I have found everyone to be very considerate and respectable. I wish to thank you all for your patience and understanding!!
Another item to be addressed is the furniture in the hall. MAROA decided that the new tables and chairs should not be for private use. However there are about 20 of the old chairs still in the storage room and you can go the office and put down a $20.00 deposit to use them. They should be returned to the storage room in a timely manner, and your deposit will be returned by the office. Also, there are crutches, wheel chairs, canes, walkers in the storage for residents to use but please put them back as found.
Thanks to all of you that make Mobel Americana such a wonderful place to live!!

NOTICES
There is, at the maintenance shed on Mt. Piney Avenue, an air pump, which you may use 24 hours a day to pump up your bicycle tires. Please replace the air hose on the hanger.

Forecaster
All items and other information for the Forecaster may be placed in the box just inside the entry doors to the Atrium. All items to be in BLACK INK. Deadline for March (now 5:OO pm); for general articles, the 16th of February, for last minute items, the 17th. Please note that the minimum font size is number eleven.
Old Phone Books - Place old phone books in the aluminum can shed at the Americana Drive storage area, not in the newspaper or magazine bins.
Inserts - This is to notify all residents and clubs that the Forecaster will no longer accept inserts to be placed in the Forecaster. It has become to complicated to try and satisfy everyone in this respect. If you have something for the Forecaster, then please have it submitted by the deadlines. Please, also note that the Editor can accept no commercial messages. All commercial notices must be addressed to the Publisher directly.
Monthly Bridge Luncheon- will be held on February 20th at noon, tickets will be sold for $5.00 and prizes will be given. Hosts and Hostesses will sell the tickets.
Forecaster Delivery Policy - The only requirement is that it be delivered by the first of the month. Most months that is the earliest it is available. If you get it earlier, count yourself fortunate. But remember one thing, I have absolutely no intention of criticizing the volunteers, unless they are late delivering. Most deliverers do deliver as soon as received, but some have other commitments. I trust you will be understanding in this matter.

Super Bowl Party
Richard Norcross - 525-5338
The annual Super Bowl party will be held on February 3rd at 5:00 pm in the main hall. Tickets are $3.00 and are available from myself or at any of the Friday bingos. Bring a side dish and your own refreshments.
From the Office - Dawn Simmons will shortly (or has maybe by now) be sending out a notice informing all residents of the recommencements of property inspections. These will take place the weeks of February 18th and 25th. These will be exterior inspections, concentrating on the building appearance - paint, cleaning etc. - and on grounds care, shrubs, plants, lawn, fruit picked up, etc. As you all realize, it is in our mutual interests to keep the community looking sharp and presentable. The letters will give the time frames for any corrective action necessary.
In addition please fill out the short information sheet so the office know whom to contact during the seasonal absences and where the keys can be found. This is extremely important if emergencies arise.
White Elephant Sale March 2nd, 2002 - Kay Sebek
Ladies, please go through your jewelry and see if you could possibly donate any pieces to the jewelry table for the sale. Thank you. You have always been so kind. Contact me at 525-4723.
From Peggy Hubrich
This is let those of you know, who have lived here for some time, that one of our former security guards, Calvin Davey, passed away in January, 2002.

YOU ARE INVITED to help John Hill celebrate his 80th birthday, Sunday, March 10th.
Our middle son, Jim, will be preaching at the Woodlawn Presbyterian Church at both the 8:30 and 11:00 AM services.
From 3:00-4:00 P.M. there will be a cake and ice cream social at Mobel Americana, in the Atrium.
At 4:50 P.M. the Vespers' worship service will begin in the Club House. The Reverend Douglas McMahon, John's pastor, will deliver the message; Jim will play the organ; John will sing "The Trumpet Shall Sound" from the "Messiah", accompanied by Chris Ragsdale, trumpeter and Alys Schulz, pianist; the Woodlawn Choir will join the Vesper Choir singing the anthem, "Morning Has Broken". Light refreshments will be served following this service.
No presents; just your presence will bring joy to John as we praise the Lord together.

THANK YOU
The Employees and Staff of Mobel Americana wish to thank all of the residents who contributed so generously to the Employee Christmas Fund.
We would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone A Very Happy New Year.

THANKS FOR THE GOOD WISHES
By Cleve Ballentine
I want to thank everyone for the many cards and the good wishes shown by visits, phone calls during my five-day stint in the hospital. I especially thank Vespers for the card and flowers, and a visit by John Hill was very much appreciated. John is a good Christian. He visits those who are ill in homes, hospitals and nursing homes.

MOBEL NOTES
By Ken Hopkins
CRAFTERS - One of my wife's favorite groups, Needlecrafters, has voted to change their name to "Crafters" to more accurately reflect the nature of the group. The group is now a fully fledged "club" under the auspices of the MAA Council and is in the process of establishing their by-laws, electing officers and similar. Although originally dedicated to needlecraft, the group has grown and expanded into many other areas such as origami, painting, and beadwork resulting in the name change. Through the Bazaar and Craft Show held in November, the Crafter's were proud to be able to contribute over $1,000 to MAA. The Crafter's also make an annual contribution to a local woman's shelter.
Annette Solomon, leader of the group, stated the purpose of the club is, "To stimulate an interest in homemade crafts." When asked what the club needs to continue to grow, Annette responded, "We need room and a space of our own." The club meets on Monday morning and Thursday afternoon and is open to all with an interest in crafts. Come and share your craft skills with the Crafters or learn from them.

MOBEL LISTBOT - A "Listbot" is an automatic E-mail machine. The "bot" part stands for robot. We have one for Mobel Americana. It is set up so that when you want to send an E-mail to all members of the group, you just send a single E-mail addressed to the robot and your E-mail is sent to every member of the group. It is a great way to communicate easily and a particularly nice way to keep in touch with Mobel happenings if you are away for the summer. We have had some very interesting discussions concerning a variety of Mobel issues and invite you to join us. There are currently about 45 members of this group. Once you join, you will have access to archives of all of the previous discussions as well as our on-line chat group, and similar.
To join, send an e-mail to our moderator, Conrad Weiser at his E-mail address MAOA1999@ AOL.COM. In your e-mail to Conrad, please include your Mobel street address so that Conrad can confirm your identity. The Listbot is a closed mailing list only for the residents of Mobel Americana. You will not receive any unwanted mailings from this group. Conrad will respond with instructions on how to register with Yahoo Groups, the home of our listbot. Of course, there is no charge for this convenient service.

MOBEL AMERICANA COMMUNITY DIRECTORY - just reminder the 2001-2002 community directories are available in the business office. If you have not already picked up your copy, please stop by the office and request yours. There are plenty available. When you get your copy, please check that all of your information is complete and correct. If not, be sure and let the office know for next time.

WHAT'S WRONG WITH PROFILING? - The current case of the secret service agent who was offended because an American Airlines pilot doubted his authenticity is quite interesting. The agent is an Arab American claiming discrimination because of his ethnicity and is now suing American Airlines. The AA pilot states that the agent's paperwork was not in order and, in these troubled times, chose to act on the side of caution. His crime? He refused to fly the plane while he had any doubt as to the credentials of the armed agent on board. Well, what's wrong with profiling? Airport security agents are asked to do this all the time. Comes a swarthy looking middle-eastern male, 27 years old, with no luggage, and a one-way ticket and suspicions are raised. In fact, the 9/11 hijackers were challenged for just that reason. Unfortunately, they were not body searched and you know the rest of that story. Richard Reid, the fellow with explosives in his shoes was likewise challenged by his profile and denied boarding. However, he tried again the next day and succeeded in getting on his flight. With matches! Expect to see more profiling and, if somebody's feelings are hurt, well that's the price to be paid during these unusual circumstances.

PINELLAS COUNTY RESIDENT OWNED COMMUNITIES (ROC)
This group, as its name implies, represents the various communities such as ours in the area. They meet once a month, usually the second Friday, and rotate their meeting places. The group is partially sponsored by The Federation of Manufactured Home Owners of Florida, Inc. For more info on that organization, see their web site at www.fmo.org. Interestingly; over 100 parks in Pinellas County are now resident owned which is 1/3 of the total.
This month was our turn to host the meeting and there was a very interesting discussion by William Athanson, CPA on the subject of "Preparing Your Association's Operating and Reserve Funds". Mr. Athanson explained that the Board of Directors has a fiduciary responsibility to the shareholders and discussed how the community budget should be set up with reserves for major expenditures such as paving, painting, roofing and expenses over $10,000. He further stated that the shareholders have the right to vote at the annual meeting on how these reserves are funded.
These monthly meetings are open to all shareholders. The next meeting will be held at Bay Aristocrat on February 8th

ATTENTION CAMPERS - Beck and I have found a very nice local camping club. The Firesiders are part of a national camping organization called FCRV (Family Campers & RV'ers). They camp locally, usually within an hour's drive or less, and get out once a month except for June, July, and August. Their next campout will be February 8 - 10 at Lazy Days and we invite you to join us. We very much enjoyed our last campout with Firesiders. They are a very pleasant group of seniors and went out of their way to make us feel welcome.
For more information or to sign up for the next campout, contact either Beck or myself. Incidentally, this is the camping club that Bert and Dolly Couture belong to.

SUGGESTIONS WELCOME - Have some news from your club or group? Have an idea that you'd like to express in this column? Want your chance to be heard? Give us a call at 525-8411 or email at hopken@mindspring.com.

Scams and Con Artists
By Pat Ruedy
On Friday 11th, 2002, you missed a very interesting crime watch meeting that 66 residents attended.
Our Community police officer, Billy Walker, told us of the committed crimes that were on the last police blotter of crimes committed in our community. Then officer Jim Giambruno, who works with "Seniors Versus Crime", introduced John Barr, who would help us learn how to prevent becoming a "Target for Con Artists".
John Barr, with Florida's "Seniors vs. Crime", Economics Division of the Attorney General's office, told us of recently used scams in our area. One was a new twist on the old bank scam of how the bank teller was being checked on for the accuracy of withdrawing monies correctly. After you have withdrawn your money and given it to the scam artist, then the scammer would state he/she was going to redeposit your monies back into your bank account. Why, they even gave you a receipt for the money, so that you would think that this was truly a legal transaction. Naturally, none of your money was re-deposited into your account. Guess who's account it went to! Mr. Barr continued to tell us of past crimes against seniors and their outcomes.
One concerned a large retail pharmacy chain that under-filled prescriptions, but charged you for the full amount, and then told you to come back later for the balance of your prescription. Of course, many didn't return resulting in a larger profit for the pharmacy. Another was the sale of recharged used batteries as new, originally taken in as trade-ins or returned under warranty. Seniors were not the only victims in this scam.
The are several scams being looked into at this time. One of them is "Florida Water Treatment?”. Free testing of your tap water to sell you water conditioning units at big buck prices. They sold one household 3 different units before the customer called for help. Sad, but true, we older citizens are sitting ducks for scams. The thought among investigation divisions of our government is that we were brought up to have nice manners and to never say NO! Or hanging up on telemarketers. We must fight back.
A group called Senior Sleuths comprised of snowbirds and seniors are now working with government offices to pinpoint scammers, to get them arrested, and out of operation. ?“National Night Out?” is another way to stop criminals in their tracks. Never be afraid of telling a telemarketer to call you back another day, because you want to check with a friend to see if what they are selling sounds like a fair item or price. Chances are you will never hear from them again. There are devices on the market now to help you cut them off at the pass, but they can be costly. Just use what GOD gave you, intelligence and a voice, and say NO!
Speaker Mr. Barr could not stress enough how we must take action in our hands and fight back. Senior Sleuths are always looking for volunteers. They have a web site "seniorsleuths.org". The closest office to call for those without computers is - Donald Ravenna, Regional Director- West Coast, Senior vs. Crime, 2002 N. Lois Ave. Suite 520 Tampa, Fl. 33607, (813) 871-7255
NOTE: The day after I wrote this article, I, as did several others in the Park, received a card in the mail from Florida Water Testing. I threw the card away. Also, I was told later that there were two senior sleuths in the audience during the meeting, who would have known or suspected!

Potpourri - from the Editor's desk (additional contributions from Gerri Bassett, Lucy Laberge and Nancy Hubartt)
Thought - If you can remain calm, you just don't have all the facts.
Fun definitions - Mosquito, an insect that makes you like flies better.
Remember when (from John Stewart) Running until you were out of breath.
Translations "You look terrific". Translated; "Please don't try on one more outfit, I'm starving".
Simple Signs - On a fence: Salesmen welcome, dog food is expensive.
Random Thoughts - The trouble with doing something right the first time is that no one realizes how difficult it was.
Integrity - The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow. Do good anyway.
You're getting marvelously mature when: You try to straighten out the wrinkles in your socks only to discover you aren't wearing any.
Truths: No one is listening unless you make a mistake.
Life:All people smile in the same language.
Friends:If you ever need a friend, buy a dog.
I've learned: That artificial intelligence is no match for natural stupidity.
Recent sign sightings - "Clean Dirt for sale" - washed in Tide no doubt.
"Fish Smoking" - I knew the tobacco companies wanted new markets, but this is ridiculous.
The Tongue - by anonymous:
The Boneless Tongue, so small and weak
Can crash and kill, declared the Greek
The tongue destroys a greater horde,
The Turk asserts, than does the sword.
The Persian proverb wisely saith,
A lengthy tongue, an early death.
Or sometimes takes this form instead,
Don't let your tongue cut off your head.
The tongue can speak a word whose speed,
Says the Chinese, outstrips the steed.
While the Arab sages this impart,
The tongue's great storehouse is the heart.
From Hebrew wit the maxim sprung,
Though feet should slip, ne'er let the tongue.
The sacred writer crowns the whole,
Who keeps his tongue doth keep his soul.

New England Night; Sponsored by the State of Maine
By Ted Jackson
New England Night will be held on February 23, 2002. It will feature foods grown, processed and distributed in the State of Maine. We thought seriously about Lobster as the entr?©e but we learned it would take one pound of $20.00 bills to buy one pound of Lobster. This is not on the menu for obvious reasons.
The alternative, though, will be excellent and we hope you all will join us. The tentative menu is broiled chicken, scalloped potatoes, baked beans and brown bread with cole slaw, and a blueberry dessert.
All proceeds go to improvements in our park. THANK YOU.
P.S. Tickets will go on sale February 11, 2002 at 9 A. M. in our clubhouse, the price is $7.00. Doors will open to set-up at 10 A.M. on Saturday, February 23, 2002, please bring own table Service. Tablecloths will be provided.

Garden Club
By Diana Rogers
The Garden Club meeting will be held on Feb. 12, 2002 in the Atrium. We will have our usual social time with donuts and coffee from 9:30 - 10:00. Following this, we will welcome as our speaker, Mary Ellen Warner. She is the Vice President of the St Petersburg Garden Club and a Master Gardner and Chairman of the Green Thumb Festival. On Feb. 26, 2002 an interesting experience awaits those who sign up to tour Tampa Electric Big Bend station and the Manatees Viewing Center. Lunch at Alpha Restaurant, Pizza and Pasta Buffet, on Apollo Beach. The afternoon will be an educational experience at the Florida Citrus Arboretum and the Citrus Research and Education Center. We will leave the clubhouse at 8:00 A.M. and return by 6:00 P.M.

Neighborhood Crime Watch
UPDATE
By Barbara Magada
The Next Meeting of the Crime Prevention/Crime Watch/Crime Patrol will be Friday, February 8th, 2002 at 1:30 P.M. in the Clubhouse. Please mark your calendar. REFRESHMENTS as usual. Speaker not yet confirmed, but I'm working on that and it will be announced at the Wednesday luncheons. Our January meeting was a big success and I appreciate your efforts made to attend. Hope all of you attended went home with many tips of safety.
Again, I THANK YOU all for adding to our record of "69" for attendance. See you all February 8th.
Coordinators: - Barb Magada, Esther Louzon & Jim Chase

PAR SEEKERS GOLF
By Russ Steele
Veteran member John Mello scored the first hole in one of the season at Mainlands on Dec. 6 during a regular outing. Leni Lambert, Roger LaBerge and Cleve Ballentine witnessed his ace on the 17th hole.
Bill Erwin was the medallist for the 4-club event on Dec. 13 with a score of 72. Ed Higgins was second with a 79 and Reeda Erwin third with 84.
Chairperson, Carol Dunn, announced that the annual awards banquet will be held on Monday, March 25 in the clubhouse. New members introduced at the Jan. 8 meeting were Mary Ann and John Vidumski.
Members will play regular golf on Feb. 7, 21, and 28 and the U. S. Open on Feb. 14, weather permitting.

BLOOD DRIVE
By Tom Priestly,
Blood Chairman
The annual blood drive will be held March 9, 2002 at 9 a.m. in the Mobel Americana parking lot. A big "thank you" to all for your past and future participation in the blood drive.

WHAT GOOD IS A BLOOD DONOR?
By Florida Blood Services.
A blood donor is good
for people who go through red lights and windshields.
For somebody with leukemia.
For people being operated on.
For barefoot kids who aren't careful.
For hemophiliacs so they can be as normal as possible.
For people undergoing dialysis while waiting for a kidney transplant.
For people who fool around with guns.
For people who are burned pretty bad.
For new mothers needing a transfusion.
For new babies who need a complete change of blood supply.
For people having open-heart surgery.
For cancer patients.
For people with a severe case of hepatitis.
For anybody with bleeding ulcers.
For the very tired with severe anemia.
For people who are in a lot worse shape than most people you know.

SHUFFLEBOARD NEWS
By Jo Waldron
The annual cocktail party is scheduled for 6 p.m. on February 7th. There will be an open bar, finger foods furnished by members and entertainment. Free to members, there is a $5 charge for spouses and overnight guests. Call your team captain for more details.
Tom Solomon has introduced a new game to the group, it's called "horse collar", and it's great fun and open to all members. If you are interested, come to the courts at 1 p.m. on Sunday afternoons.
League Standings:
The Nova red team ended the first half in 3rd place and Nova blue in 6th.
Friendship I is in 5th place and Friendship 2 in 2nd place.
The Blue Sky team is in 2nd place.
The park doubles were postponed due to rain; results of this contest will be in the next Forecaster.
The park singles will be held on Monday, February 11th and Wednesday, the 13th, at 8:30 a.m. All members are eligible for this tournament.
The Carl Agerholm trophy match will be held on March 4th at 12:30 p.m. You are eligible to play if you have won all three of your "red & black" games and have listed your name on the winner sheet.
The Blue Sky league tournament will be held here on March 14th & 15th you will hear more on this at our February meeting. We should all be available to volunteer our time or baked goods for this event.
Mobel Americana did very well in the Pinellas Park amateur doubles. Sil Oliveira and Nick Misciagna took 2nd place in the main event and may have won 1st place but had to forfeit due to a Friendship league commitment. In consolation, double-teams Wanda Spetz & Jo Waldron and Doug Reid & Tom Solomon came in 1st & 2nd. They also were not able to play off due to league play, so being the gentlemen they are; Doug & Tom said" Ladies First" and they took 2nd place. Wanda and Jo are still showing off their First Place trophies. Thanks Guys.
Don't forget the pancake breakfast on February 9th, great food; great company AND...you could be $116 richer as Theola Benedict was when she won the January 50/50 drawing. Y'all come!
Happy Shuffling

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY
Nora Adell Andrews
"The best of a book is not the thought which it contains, but the thought it suggests." Oliver Wendell Holmes

Our annual candy sale is about to begin! We will be selling candy bars, peanuts, chips and pretzels at the luncheons and on Bingo Night. The first sale will be Friday, February 1 at Bingo. We use the money earned to update and rejuvenate our library. Last year we had bookcases built, and already they are almost filled!
Bill Bryson held this month's meeting on January 10, with Nora Adell Andrews reporting on the book, A Walk in the Woods. The author gave a humorous and informative account of his partial journey on the 2,100-mile Appalachian Trail. Bryson has written several travel books as well as books dealing with the lore of the English language. His books have been bestsellers in England as well as in this country, being on the Times bestseller lists for many weeks. He lives in Hanover, New Hampshire with his wife and four children.
At our next meeting on the second Thursday of the month, February 14th at 1:00 p.m. Joan Belanger and Rita Varney will lead the discussion on the book, Amy and Isabelle by Elizabeth Strout. We welcome all those who would like to join us. We meet in the Library corner of the clubhouse and if you wish more information please contact Rita Lewis, our Head Librarian.

Massachusetts Night
By Annette Solomon
A great Massachusetts Night was enjoyed by 75 residents of our community. Our State Representative Bruce Ayers sent us many wonderful gifts for our raffle; also Citations were presented to all the workers who helped. These Citations were signed by Representative Bruce Ayers and the Speaker of the House Representative Thomas M. Finneran, to both of whom we are very grateful.
The parents of Representative Ayers, Beverly and Charles Ayers reside at Mt. Oak Ave. in our community.
Thank you all for attending, see you next year.

LINE DANCE UPDATE
BY Norine Fisher
Looks like everyone is having a great time line dancing. Even those who never did it before are catching on. It's just a fun time and exercise for the body and brain. We all need a little of that.
Now that we're in our fifth week you must know a little about line dancing so join in as we keep learning new things every week.
We're on the calendar every Monday at 1 P.M. so come and watch.

Duplicate Bridge
Directors Gerri Bassett & Shirley Beauchamp
Sunday December 16
Howell Movement
1. Gerri & John Bassett
2. Eleanor & Earl French
3. Jo Waldron & Joan Dell'Angelo
SUNDAY January 6
Mitchell Movement
North & South
1. Joan Dell'Angelo & Don Delzell
2. Esther Louzon & Shirley Beauchamp
East & West
1. Anne Kocher & Anne LaFlamme
2. Tie
MaryJane Hill & Don Marsh
Gerri & John Bassett
Hope you all have a nice Valentines Day, don't forget your Sweetheart.

Dear Crafters
By Annette Solomon
Welcome to all Members. We thank the residents who are donating great supplies for us to use. We are very grateful. If you have yarn, material, thread, floss, needles, pins, hooks, scissors, patterns, glue, artificial flowers, ribbons, buttons, rick rack, hoops, stuffing, used greeting cards, beads, small frames, lace, felt, netting etc. etc. Please drop them off in the library area (on our sewing machine) or call me to pick them up.
Basics are offered at each meeting. Come and learn a craft or share a craft with us. You can learn free. Most materials are supplied.
If you are working on a project at home, bring it along and join us. You may bring a friend. The more the merrier!
See you there.

BIKING the LAKE SUPERIOR CIRCLE TOUR
By Sharon S. Miller
Yes, your resident bike-touring enthusiast has been at it again. This past summer I joined four other cyclists in riding the 1200-mile trip around Lake Superior. It will be my pleasure to share some slide pictures and insights from the trip at the "Old Timers' Luncheon" on Wednesday, February 13, at 11:15 AM. I do so as a special "tribute" and "thanks" for the hospitality shown us during our journey by Canadians, Michiganders, Minnesotans, and Wisconsinites.

SIGNS THAT YOU MAY BE CANADIAN
Submitted by Leni Lambert
1.You stand in "line-ups" at the movie, not lines.
2.You're not offended by the term, "Homo Milk".
3.You understand the phrase, "Could you please
pass me a serviette, I just spilled my poutine".
4.You eat chocolate bars instead of candy bars.
5.You drink pop, not soda.
6.You know what it means to be on pogey.
7.You know that a mickey and 2-4's mean "Party at
the camp, eh!"
8.You can drink legally while still a 'teen.
9.You don't know or care about the fuss with
Cuba; it's just a cheap place to travel with
good cigars.
10.You get milk in bags as well as cartons and
plastic jugs.
11.Pike is a type of fish, not some part of a
highway.
12.You drive on a highway, not a freeway.
14.You know what a Robertson screwdriver is.
15.You know that Thrills are something to chew
and "taste like soap".
16.You know that Mounties "don't always look like
that".
17.You know that the Friendly Giant isn't a
vegetable product line.
18.You wonder why there isn't a 5-dollar coin yet.
19.Unlike any international
assassin/terrorist/spy in the world, you don't
possess a Canadian passport.
20.You are excited whenever an American
television show mentions Canada.

CUE CLUB NEWS
By Brian Birch
Our season has passed the half way mark already! We are all looking forward to the beginning of our tournaments. On Wednesday, February 27th, the Women's League will host their singles tournament, and on Thursday, February 28th, the Men's League will do the same. If you have a desire to participate in the singles, doubles or both tournaments, please sign up by FEBRUARY 15th in the billiard room. You don't have to be a League player to enter the competition. There will be a nominal charge for all entrants. GOOD LUCK TO ONE and ALL! We hope you will come join us and cheer each other on! Don't forget mixed doubles will continue on Sunday evenings at 7:00pm. For those still interested, Brian will continue his instruction class on Thursdays from 5:00 to 6:15 pm.

HAVE YOU TRIED THE WEB?
By Conrad Weiser
Computers For Our Community (CFOC) is a local not-for-profit organization that I helped establish nearly six years ago. You may have read that they have distributed, free of charge, over 1,000 recycled computers here in St. Petersburg. Over the last three years, 37 recycled PCs have been provided to residents of Mobel Americana. Virtually all of these units were set up to use our Suncoast FreeNet, the no-cost Internet access provided by our public library system.
Again this year, following the Christmas holidays, many of our residents received new or "Family used" computers to replace their older recycled PCs. In most cases, these units are turned back to find a new home here in the park. I currently have several of these recycled machines available. If you or a neighbor has never ventured into the Internet, perhaps you'd like to get your feet wet. These fully functional, older computers can satisfy that fascination of sending e-mail to family and friends all over the world and at no cost. Many park residents are now using these recycled PCs, connected to the Web via our local FreeNet, to enjoy unlimited hours of letter exchanges with those dearest to them. Would you like to try?

More than Just Aerobics!
By Sharon Miller
Coordination, upper body strength training, and flexibility/balance exercises are all part of the Monday, Wednesday, and Friday program offered in the Atrium at 8:15 am. Sally Anderson, who not only is a Fitness Instructor at the Vinoy but also writes a "Wellness Column" for the St. Petersburg Times, has put together a 45-minute workout program that allows each participant to work at his/her fitness level.
Comparable programs in the St. Pete/Tampa area charge $8/person or more per session. We get a real deal at only $2/person per session.
For further info, please contact me at 525-8150.


Life's Promises
By Al Nosek
Lord, give to those in this park,
Your peace and quiet and gentle heart.
Give me Lord the gift I ask,
So I can serve you to the last.
Help us Lord to know your love
So we can see you up above.
And in this park to help the residents there,
Because I know we all need prayer.
For it's only in giving, that my life has been spared,
And He's asked me to be with you when in despair,
And really need someone to listen and care.
It's eternal life that he promised us, so be there.

Editor's Note - Al wants you all to know that he is willing to give witness as to how he was saved, and he wants you also to know that he is there for you if you need a friend to pray with in times of trouble. His phone number is 525-9591.

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.
Aluminum Cans and Scrap Metal
Please put these out on Tuesdays only or take to one of the Old-timers Aluminum sheds. Do not put in the garbage compactor. It is for household garbage only.
Yard Brush and Tree Trimmings
Place all yard brush and tree trimmings at the side of the road separate from the garbage and it will be picked up. Do not put it with the regular garbage. This only increases the amount we must pay to have it hauled away.
Help the Park - There is a shed at the Americana Drive compound where you can place your old phone books. By keeping as much as possible of all these materials out of the garbage we save on garbage hauling costs as well as generating some funds, not only for us, but also for a school that turns these in for recycling to raise school funds.
Bertram Zanaglio, MAROA Board member.