Americana Cove

Welcome Home- Join Us In Thanksgiving

Oct 31, 2004

PRAYER FOR NOVEMBER
Gracious God this month has a day set apart for giving thanks. Everywhere people will remember Thanksgiving Day. How thoughtless of us to be thankful one day a year when we should be thankful every moment of every day.
You know that there are times when it is difficult for us to be thankful. We are hurt by events and by our neighbors, friends and relatives.
Your Son experienced cruelties we will never undergo. He gave us an example of love and thankfulness that we could emulate but never match.
Forgive our hatefulness, unloving and ungracious thoughts and actions.
May Your Holy Spirit strengthen and guide us to be aware of and thankful for the many blessings we have and receive every day.
We praise You, God and bless You for our gifts given in abundance.
Amen.
John Whittredge Hill, Chaplain.


IT?’S JUST AROUND THE CORNER By John Layner

Someone once said, ?“The smallest good deed is better than the grandest intention.?” So true, the full support that the Veterans Memorial Committee is receiving is just overwhelming.
That special day, Veterans Day, November 11th, is when we will give recognition and honor to our veterans with the presentation of a new memorial.
The program begins with musical entertainment by the Melodears with the ever-popular Ferne Eppers at the organ. The entire program appears on all bulletin boards?…and yes, there will be coffee and donuts for all.
Please plan on being there at 10.00 a.m. Help us show our veterans that we care. It is said, ?“Appreciation is the lubricant in life.?” Many thinks to all of you.


FROM THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS (MAROA)
The proposed budget was mailed to all shareholders this week. Your Board and Office Staff, Manager and Treasurer have worked to make this, the first budget shareholders will vote on under our new bylaw, a budget that is accurate, proper, and based on common sense. Please pay careful attention to the various parts of the budget. Expenses have been reduced by $72,000. Half of that is due to less mortgage interest to the bank and the rest to cost cutting by our Manager.

The Capital Budget reflects the continuation of programs already started on the roads, drains and fences. The other smaller items are all necessary maintenance items. The addition of $50,000 into the fixed portion of reserves is replacement of funds, which will bring the total reserves to over $900,000. The Board has often stated it's desire to keep a million dollars invested, earning a safe return, in our reserves for that rainy day we all hope never comes. It is prudent action to take this step while we continue to repair and upgrade our facilities. Examine the budget, ask questions, and become familiar with it. The Board recommends a yes vote.

In order to plan for spending from the reserve account it is necessary for you to approve suspension of reserve funding for the 2005 budget. This is a technicality. We are actually putting twice as much money into reserves as required, but not into every line item. For example the $36,900 for the seawall and the $10,800 for replacement of the clubhouse will be used elsewhere. We need a yes vote to suspend funding of reserves.

We believe that this Board has demonstrated its commitment to the Cove and a common sense approach to spending policies. This budget reflects that commitment and common sense. The two items above are partners. Please support your board and vote yes for both.

An additional item of interest to all is the appointment of Don Delzell to the Board for the balance of the term of Hubert Dorsett. This will be until January 2006. The Board welcomes Don, he brings a great deal of financial expertise to the Board. Thank you to both Don and Joan Geiger for their interest. With two well-qualified candidates we had only one position to fill.


MANAGER'S REPORT: Dawn Simmons
WEEDING/SNAKES
When weeding your planters and working in your yard, be aware of your surroundings. This notice is not meant to scare you but a warning.
Three large diamond back rattlesnakes have been killed on our property. A 12-inch baby was sighted on Mt. Saxon. Where there is a baby, mother is not far away.
Be On The Lookout.
Call the business office and a maintenance man will come and take care of it for you. Please do not take any chances.

NOTICE:
When selling a home privately, all persons must make application and go through the park interview with the Manager and a Board Member, prior to closing the sale. If this procedure is not followed the sale of the home could be denied.

FRUIT TREES:
Fruit trees were a big problem this summer with our storms. The wind blew a lot of it on the ground. Trees that have not been pruned caused all the dead branches to fly around other residents?’ yards.
Again this year you need to get your trees pruned, fruit picked or even removed. I will be doing a park inspection on all properties in November. You will then be notified to maintain the fruit trees.
Our maintenance men had to spend many an hour picking up fruit after the storm so the lawn service would not run over them.


SUNSHINE REPORT- November 2004 By Gerri Bassett
Deaths
Norma MacPherson

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
Cameron Shults The Abbey

Hospitals
Bill Slepin Largo Medical
Pauline Newman Kindred Hospital

November Birthdays
01 Lorraine Hoey
02 Margie Slaugenhaupt
03 Peggy Pippenger
05 Mary Kelm
Jo Ducey
Joe Golf
06 Ruth Rosebush
07 Frank Wright
08 Ginger Phillips
09 Doris Dion
15 Lou Lauzier
16 Hugh Roberts
Ed Mosakowski
21 Bonnie Parr,
23 Emma Hubartt
24 Sandy Wilkinson
Connie Mattina
26 Curt Sigourney
27 Bob Paige
John Wadsworth
28 Evelyn Dusza

November Anniversaries
09 Carol and Ed Slade 52 years
19 Beverly and Donald Park 26 years
23 Virginia and Don Lederman 02 year
25 Peggy and Ed Church 22 years

Would you like your Birthday or Anniversary in the Forecaster? E-mail me at:
Lyonsbassett@Juno.com. Thank You!


MEET YOUR NEW NEIGHBOR
by Gail Jones

Debbie Brown came to our park in April 2003 and took residence at 116 Americana court. She had been living at Placida Bayou and came here with one of her clients. She liked the place and location so much that she made her own purchase. She is currently a realtor for Caldwell Bankers and you can find her ad. in our Forecaster. She likes being on the water and recently found another spot more to her liking and now is in the process of moving to 7069 Mt. Piney Road.
Originally Debbie grew up in Lapeer Michigan. That is a town of approximately 7,500 east of Flint, MI in the thumb area. Her family was in the funeral business. She and her husband had an auto business and specialized in the selling and repair of Mercedes. The two of them relocated in St. Pete about twenty-three years ago. Her husband died and she continued for a while in the selling and repair of Mercedes.
She enjoys her home, making changes and improvements and her special kitty. She is an active gal liking the outdoors, walking, kayaking, and fishing. Marietta Dimke has been a kind neighbor to her, letting her know when special programs are happening and invites to attend.


MAA NEWS FOR NOVEMBER
Ken Hopkins, President
Gobble gobble. Can it be Thanksgiving already? If any of you have driven through Punta Gorda (as I have) you know exactly how much we have to be thankful for. Well, the hurricanes are over; let?’s have some fun!

Please help me welcome the newly formed Exercise Club. Sharon Miller, Bob Thomas, and Jo Waldron are working together as the nucleus of this new group designed to bring together the various pool, gym, and exercise groups. I?’m looking forward to our first triathlon. I understand their motto is, ?“Fit is Fine!?” (naw, I made that up)

The November MAA Council meeting will be held at 10:00 A.M. in the Atrium on Tuesday, November 2nd followed the next day by the monthly MAA luncheon.

The Club House will be in use on November 2nd as a polling place. Please remember to vote!

Our monthly card party will be at 6:30pm in the Club House on November 6th. We need card players! New residents, come on out and meet your neighbors over a deck of cards.

November 11th is Veteran?’s Day and John Layner and his committee intend to unveil our new memorial around 10:15 A.M. Please come out to show your support for Veterans, past and present.

The Holiday Craft Bazaar will be on Saturday, November 13th. This is a great time to stock up on those stocking stuffers and other gifts. The Crafters have been working all summer to offer you a wonderful selection of hand made craft goods. Come and have a good time. Your purchases help support MAA. This is one of two fundraisers during the course of the year that benefit MAA.

November 20th, Saturday at 5:00 P.M. will feature a Welcome Home dinner sponsored by Vespers. Everyone is invited. Come and enjoy a dinner and some outstanding entertainment.

Thursday, November 25th will feature our annual Thanksgiving Dinner. The Kitchen Krewe will go all out this year, thankful that we still have a kitchen to cook in.

Tuesday, November 30th will be our next Council meeting

Happy Thanksgiving from MAA!


A IS SEA Richard H."Dick" Fay
If food quality was categorized,
A B or C;
Category A for me,
Would be sea.

You see, I like arthropods,
Hard-shelled creatures;
Vertebrate fish are OK,
But I like lobsters features.

Clams and mussels,
Are juicy delights;
Embellishing my dinner,
On many nights.

What is it,
I am trying to say?
Eat a scrumptious,
Lobster today.


MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS
Maybe it?’s early in the season, but it seems that the lunch meetings at noon on the 1st, 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month are a secret to some, as the turnout is much less than previous years at this time.
The lunches are hosted by the Mobel Americana Association (MAA) and the Old Timers Club. It?’s a good time to meet your neighbors, heck, invite your neighbors to come with you.
There is a membership fee of $3.50 annually for the Old Timers Club, yes; just one annual charge, and you can then enjoy several appetizing lunches. For the MAA lunches there is no membership fee and no charge for the lunches. Hey, and occasionally there?’s even entertainment.
All residents are automatically members of the MAA-yes, your residency is your approval, and that?’s it.
The lunches are prepared and served by the Kitchen Krewe led by Betty Chase, and many volunteers. And while we?’re on the subject of volunteers, several more are needed to help serve the lunches and beverages.
So come on down, meet your neighbors, and get up to date on all the current goings on in the community.
See you there.

AMERICANA COVE COMPUTER CLUB MEETING NOTESS (9/21/04)
As recorded by Conrad Weiser, Secretary

Our guest speaker was Officer Chip Wells of the S.P.P.D. Crime Prevention Unit. His ?“Computer Geek?” status is confirmed as the Webmaster for the Police Web Site: www.stpete.org/police
The theme of the presentation was ?“Security?”. We heard that the ?“New Battleground on Terrorism?” is the personal computers tied to the Internet. Much of the criminal activity there originates with the ?“Russian Mafia?” but some of their profits are being diverted to terrorist causes. Chip listed the three important defenses we need to protect our computers in this environment.
1.Virus Scanners. We learned that McAfee and Symantec are companies with essentially the same products. Chip recommends downloading from them several times each week to maintain our defenses against new virus threats.
2.We need a software ?“Firewall?” that also needs periodic updates to remain secure. A complete package from the virus protection firms will include a firewall though they may be purchased separately from other firms. Chip did not recommend depending on the firewall facility packaged with the Windows XP Operating System.
3.Pop-up Blockers- More than a defense against pop up advertising, these software blocking programs do much to defend our privacy because the ad-ware driving the pop-ups often collect and report your Web activities, (as with ?“Cookies?”).
?“Bandwidth Stealing?”, occupying your broadband cable channel is a now threat for those who leave their computers on and connected.
New hacker skills are hiding virus code within downloaded pictures.
Terrorists are ?“Buying?” stolen credit card numbers to finance their domestic programs.
Programs that refuse to close are symptomatic of virus infection. This is also characteristic of many porno sites. [Simultaneously press: Alt., Ctrl., and Del. to stop]
The www.BitDefender.com site will perform a free, on-line virus scan of your of your computer.
Visit www.download.com for a variety of approved free & shareware software including anti-virus.
Chip reminded AOL Clients that they offer a variety of protective software for downloading.
Mentioning that his Department will provide speakers on the subject, Officer Wells warned that if we lose a credit card or have reason to suspect we have been the victim of an Identity Theft, it is essential that we contact all three of the major credit monitoring agencies, Equifax, (1-800-525-6285), Experian, (1-888-397-3742), and Trans Union, (1-800-680-7289).
Chip concluded by explaining that these appearances are an essential element of his salaried, working day with the St. Petersburg Police Department. He hopes to return for other presentations at Americana Cove and is always happy to answer individual technical questions that may arise.


COVE CORNER
By Ken Hopkins

Evacuation - During the last hurricane (I sure hope that?’s the last for a while) a mandatory evacuation was declared late at night. I was in Nova Scotia at the time but I?’m told that the authorities made the rounds about 11:30 in the evening (Ed Note: more like 1.00am) with sirens and bullhorns advising everyone to evacuate. Of course it is difficult to evacuate at a moment?’s notice under any circumstances but late at night is particularly cumbersome. This particular evacuation was further complicated by the fact that some of the ?“usual?” shelters were either closed or already filled up. In a well-intentioned effort to provide for the well being of those people who could not find an open shelter, our security department opened the clubhouse as a temporary, emergency shelter. I further understand that security came in for some criticism from the Board who expressed concern that our insurance would be compromised by unauthorized use of the clubhouse as a hurricane shelter. The Board has firmly directed that the clubhouse NOT be used as a shelter under any circumstances. It is not my intent to comment on the actions of neither the Board nor our security people. I do, however, have a concern. From afar I have heard repeated stories of how many people have ?“ridden out the storm?” staying in their homes despite the mandatory evacuation. Let?’s be clear on one issue. We live in a Zone A evacuation zone. We are mandated to evacuate both by our proximity to the water (16 foot storm surge!) and the fragile nature of our dwellings. The reason it?’s called a ?“mandatory?” evacuation rather than ?“optional?” is that the authorities know from experience how dangerous these types of storms truly are. People are killed regularly by not evacuating when told to do so. So, it really boils down to a simple thing. There is NO shelter here in the Cove. In my column last month I made reference to the gate guards ?“abandoning?” their post. That was not a slight; that?’s exactly what is supposed to happen in an evacuation. Like everyone else, they have to get out to protect their personal safety. When the evacuation order comes, you MUST get out for your own safety. Just get in your car and go. You?’ll find Beck and me somewhere up in Georgia.

An Apology - Well I caught hell from some of the security crew who felt that I was critical of them in last month?’s column where I commented on their ?“abandoning?” the front gate during evacuation. Actually, leaving the front gate and evacuating is just exactly what they are supposed to do but somehow my phraseology came across as critical. The term ?“abandon?” is easily misconstrued. Let me state publicly that my comments were in no way meant to be critical of the gate staff and I apologize if my choice of words somehow gave that impression.

MORE EVACUATION - During the recent town hall meeting there was discussion concerning those people who cannot evacuate due to their age, infirmity, medical condition, lack of driver?’s license, etc. The St. Petersburg fire dept. has a program called ?“Evacuation Assistance?” whereby they will come and get you and bring you to a shelter if you have no other options. That is, they expect you to do your best to get a friend, neighbor, or relative to help you evacuate but if you simply have no other choice (the clubhouse is not a choice!) they will come and get you. To sign up for this emergency service you must call Julie Newby, St. Petersburg Fire Dept. at 727-893-7998. Do that now. Don?’t wait for the next hurricane. Contrary to popular thinking, the Telemedic form in the office can NOT be used to sign up for evacuation. The purpose of the Telemedic form is to advise the paramedics of any special emergency medical needs you may have so that when they respond to a 911 call, they are pre-warned of your medical condition and medications.

Pets - While we are on the subject of evacuation, let me remind you that pets will almost never be allowed in a shelter. For that reason it would be prudent of you as a pet owner to consider the safety of your animal during evacuation. If you can pre-arrange shelter with a friend or relative during your absence, that would be good. Of course, then you have the discussion about why your friend/relative is willing to provide shelter for your pet but not you but that?’s another discussion. Failing that, your local humane society will often be a resource but it?’s best not to wait until the evacuation order comes. Give them a call today and see what their policy is and the procedure for securing shelter for your pet during evacuation. It is not an exaggeration to say that people have been killed because they refused shelter when they found they could not enter with their favorite pet.

ALUMINUM - For many years, the Old Timers Club has had a program of recycling aluminum cans. Several members of the Old Timers routinely patrol the Park gathering and storing cans which are then sold to a local recycler. The proceeds of these sales are then used by Old Timers to fund their monthly luncheons. I still remember playing golf with Ted Latreille and having him stop every so often on the golf course to pick up a stray empty can. During the past couple of years we have lost some of our more avid can collectors. The result is a real shortage of manpower, especially during the summer months. This summer we had an enormous pile of old windows that were ?“donated?” to the can collectors since they were aluminum. However, the recycler would not accept them because they contained glass. Unfortunately there was no one available to perform the task of breaking out the glass to leave just the aluminum. Eventually, they had to be dragged away as junk. Because of the shortage of help, the decision has been made that only aluminum beverage cans can be accepted for recycling. That means that aluminum trim from houses, windows, and the like cannot be accepted and should be discarded as ordinary refuse. Our Manager, Dawn Simmons, has graciously offered to help with the aluminum recycling program by instructing her maintenance crew to pick up bagged aluminum cans on the same days as garbage pick up and depositing those cans in the bin behind the maintenance shed. Thanks for your help, Dawn!
Editors Note: I received a late note stating that the Old Timers are again accepting aluminum windows etc. Please check with the Old Timers. However the point about needing volunteers to carry on this good work still applies.


ARE YOU ON-LINE? Conrad Weiser, Listbot Coordinator

Heard about our Cove Listbot?
[Ask your neighbor.]

Wanna join in?
[It?’s free.]

Give me a call or send me an e-mail:
[522-5008 or ]


VESPERS Gerri Bassett
We would like to thank Don Delzell for his leadership over the years. He is stepping down and Rex Eaton is taking over. So lets come to worship and support him.

The first service will commence at 4:50pm on November 7th, with an informal hymn sing followed by the regular service at 5:00 p.m. at the clubhouse. Fellowship after with refreshments. So come and invite your neighbor or a friend. We will be looking forward to seeing you. Choir members, don?’t forget choir practice on November 5th, new members are always welcome.

The Welcome Home Dinner will be on Saturday November 20th at 5:00 p.m. so mark your calendar. Betty Chase will provide one half chicken and all the good fixings with it, for $7.00. The tickets will go on sale in November. You will be inspired and entertained by two ladies from Northeast Presbyterian Church who have led many gospel cruises. This dinner is open to all residents of Americana Cove and guests, so put this on your calendar now. A date you do not want to miss.

Vespers Pastors for November
November 7 Bill Martin Northeast Presbyterian
November 14 Wayne Vaughn St. James United Methodist
November 21 Gene Crawley Northeast Park Baptist
November 28 Rick Robie (Associate Pastor) Northeast Christian
If you would like to hear your pastor preach some Sunday call Jennie at home or e-mail her at jennie@worship.net . Her phone number is 520-9448, a few pastors are still needed.
If you would like to give flowers in memory of someone call Faith Brundage at 527-6925 Thank You!


BAZAAR by Joan Mitchell
In my role as VP of MAA Council, covering for Ken on leave with FEMA, I have been asked to Emcee the Bazaar on Saturday, November 13th.
To fill Ken's and Beck's shoes for this major Fund Raiser is a "tough row to hoe". They've always done such a great job pulling off this event. So, I'm asking for your support. Anything and everything you can do to help will be MOST appreciated.
Let's make every year bigger and more successful than the one before! We want to have a year filled with fun?… parties, lunches, special events, etc. WE NEED your time talent and treasures. LET'S DO IT!
Many thanks to Annette Solomon for offering to chair the Bazaar. THIS is WORK....and to all
those who have offered or agreed to help in any way. The money we make is for US to enjoy and in some cases to help victims of disaster, such as our recent hurricanes. There may be a time when WE will need the assistance of others. We have also been able to contribute towards a new beautiful Memorial Plaque for our most deserving Veterans.
Let's ALL bond together and make TONS of money....Let's make November 13th a day to remember!


BOWLING LEAGUE By Diane E. Turner
Have you ever said to yourself that you are not good enough to bowl in a league? This is your chance to join this league. This "just for fun" league among friends and neighbors is for bowlers who have not bowled in a league before, or have not bowled for a while.
You don't have to be a good bowler. Get out of the sun and into the fun. Enjoy the great indoors, come bowling. It's a breath of fresh air. You can bowl three games of 10 pin bowling for only $7.00 per week. Come out and join the fun today. Hope to see you there and bring a friend. For further information call 521-4317.


NEW ENGLAND NIGHT - By Reg and Sally Corliss, Chairpersons (repeat of the May 2004 article)
New England Night featuring Vermont was celebrated on the 28th of February and what a delightful occasion it was. What occurred might best be described within the title of the stage play "The Mouse That Roared". Vermont is a very small state and representation in Americana Cove reflects that fact. There are nine part-time and no full-time residents in the area.
The theme for the party was Vermont and its products. In preparation for this endeavor the Corliss?’s crisscrossed the state for three days in July of 2003 and made personal contact with over forty enterprises, including retailers, wholesalers, museums, quarries and just about any place that didn't look like a private residence. The response from them was truly remarkable and put to rest that old saw about those cold and indifferent Yankees. While hard to accurately quantify, over two thousand dollars in merchandise was obtained.
The abundance of goods allowed the committee to have two raffles and twelve door prizes. The highlight of the activity was the raffling of an Ethan Allen end table that retailed for three hundred and eighty nine dollars, donated by the Beecher Falls Manufacturing Company, Sally C's old employer. There also was a very spirited cattle auction of three quality wooden Holsteins; it was a pleasure to note that our Cove has a goodly number of retired farmers in the ranks. A certain teddy bear also generated a great deal of interest, so it was necessary to take extra precautions to insure that the bear made it to the end of the raffle. There is also a rumor going around that Bernie the Bear just may surface again and do some more travelling.
A good party has to have good food and entertainment. Mrs. Chase, as usual, provided a great meal, old fashioned chicken pie, and Lee the Travelling Troubadour provided the music for listening and dancing. He even wrote a special song high-lighting the antics of that rogue and founding father of Vermont statehood, Ethan Allen.
There was a great deal of help received from all sides in the development of the program and this assistance was duly noted at the Vermont celebration, however, thanks again! We also want to thank each and everyone on the Vermont committee for their contribution as well. You were just great. Based upon this "Vermont Experience", and on behalf of all of the Vermonters, we sincerely want to thank the New England committee for an opportunity to do our part for the best community in Florida- Americana Cove.


HAPPINESS To be happy with a man, you must understand him a lot and love him a little. To be happy with a woman, you must love her a lot and not try to understand her at all.


TUESDAY CARD NIGHT

In the Atrium at 6:30 PM, card night and we know there are some new residents here in the park that might like to play cards but need some help in finding people to play the game they play. Maybe we can help you. Give me a call and I will see what I can do for you. Gerri Bassett 525-6806


DEAR CRAFTERS: By Annette Solomon
Another summer is over and another autumn is here, so that means the Craft Bazaar is coming. We are busy making new and exciting items for the Craft Bazaar, which will be held on Saturday, November 13, 2004.
Any resident or renter who has a handmade craft item may rent a table for $20.00 (for MAA), display and sell your items, and keep the profits. I will have reservation forms available in November at all the Wednesday luncheons and at every Crafters Club meeting. Spaces will be limited this year ...so ...
The Crafters Club gatherings are held every Monday at 6:00 p.m. in the Clubhouse. Our short business meeting is held on the 1st Monday of each month. You may join us anytime until 9:00 p.m. Membership in the Crafters Club is open to any Americana Cove resident or renter. Accomplished crafters and beginners are welcome, and we are always looking for supplies of yarn, thread, needles, hooks, beads, fabrics, etc. Thank you for your past support. I hope you enjoyed the patterns published in the Summer Forecaster. Let me know if you had any questions or problems.
Happy Crafting


CHRISTMAS CAROLLING IN THE PARK
John Whittredge Hill, Chaplain
The date this year will be Saturday December 18th at 6 PM.
All who would like to join us spread cheer by singing to those on whom we call are cordially invited to join us. No experience is necessary. Just the desire to bring a smile.
We will car pool at the Club House.
Most important is the names of those to whom we should sing. PLEASE NOTE:
You may volunteer yourself as one on whom to call. Last year I heard of someone who was very lonely and wished her name had been given.
Please call John Hill at 5222412 and the name will be added to the list. We don't want any body to feel left out.
Home made cookies for distribution will be received at Nancy Hill's home by the Friday before. Plates of these goodies will be made up to be given to those Whom we sing to on Saturday.
This has always been an inspiration for all who participated. We look forward to you joining us.


Marriage is a wonderful institution. But who wants to live in an institution? Groucho Marx


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 white background, full size 8 1/2 by 11 paper. Deadline for December for all articles, the 14th of November. 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. Also important in all emails is to identify in the subject line that it is ?‘Forecaster?’ material.
Calendar - Deadline for entries will be the 17th of each month, except December and January, when it is two days prior to the Forecaster entry deadline. Please note that all calendar submissions must come from, or be approved by the MAA.

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

THANK YOU from Joan Mitchell
My thanks to John and Linda for doing such a fine job of editing. They have done a really beautiful job with all of my articles. I appreciate the opportunity to have a medium such as the Forecaster where we can express our thoughts and feelings, be informed, share laughter and ideas, etc.


THANK YOU
Happiness is living among all the wonderful people in this Park!
It was a "surprise birthday celebration"-another fun event to add more special memories.
We also want to thank our families for their generous contributions. It made "our day".
Love from Arlene Harmon and Phyllis Jackwin
Thank You


NOTE - please note that the Winter Editor takes over for the next few months. It is Linda Lou Fairbanks and her email address is ?‘mspiglover@aol.com?’. Please send all Forecaster email articles to that address. The Forecaster box can also be used, located in the Atrium.


KITCHEN KREWE NEWS by Betty Chase
Many of our winter residents are back and organizations are starting their meetings. Don't forget to set your dates with the President of MAA, Ken Hopkins, to avoid any conflicts.
A birthday party for Kathy Sanders is planned for Saturday, November 6th in the Atrium from 3:00pm until 5:00pm. All residents are welcome.
On Thursday, November 11th at 10:15am a dedication service for the new Veteran's Memorial will be held in the Club House. Donuts and coffee will follow the service.
Bazaar set-up starts at 10:30 on Friday November 12th. Hot dogs will be served to the WORKERS. The Bazaar is from 9:00am until 1:00pm on Saturday, November 13th. Lunch will be available.
Thanksgiving Day Dinner tickets will be sold on Monday November 15th in the Club House at 9:00am. They will be sold for one week, as the cut-off date is Monday, November 22nd. So get them early!! Menu is turkey and all the trimmings. Dinner will start at 3:00pm with salads and snacks. Set-up after 10:00am. Bring your own table-service.
We have had complaints of people cutting in line when waiting for the doors to open at 10:00am! Like we have said many times, this is the only task we ask of you at the dinners. Please be considerate of your neighbors. Also be aware that someone standing in line for a table may have seven other people joining them! There are plenty of tables and the food is just the same wherever YOU sit!! Please come out and enjoy yourselves.


TODAY'S USELESS FACT Gerri Bassett
- Why do only female mosquitoes eat human blood? What do male mosquitoes eat?

No, the mosquito menfolk aren't out eating steak and potatoes. Actually, the main food of both male and female mosquitoes is nectar from flowers. The nectar is converted to glycogen, a fuel potent enough to provide their muscles with energy to fly within minutes of consuming the nectar. Mosquitoes also possess an organ, known as the fat-body, that is capable of storing sugar for conversion to flight fuel.

Male mosquitoes can exist quite happily on a diet of only nectar, and nature makes certain that they are content-males don't have a biting mouth part capable of piercing the skin of a human. But females have been anatomically equipped to bite because they have an important job to do: lay eggs. In some species, female mosquitoes are not capable of laying any eggs unless they eat a nutritional supplement of some tasty, fresh blood. Their organs convert the lipids in blood into iron and protein that can greatly increase their fecundity.

A mosquito that would lay five or ten eggs without the supplement can lay as many as 200 with a dash of Type O. Although we don't miss the blood sucked out of us, this is quite a feast for the mosquito; many times, she consumes more than her own body weight in blood.

But let's not take it personally. Some studies have indicated that given a choice, mosquitoes prefer the blood of cows to humans, and in the jungle are just as likely to try to bite a monkey or a bird as a human.

~source used: "Do Penguins Have Knees?"
by David Feldman


PREVIEW -"A Lay Person Looks at Fitness and Nutrition" - Sharon S. Miller

A major behind-the-scenes partner to fitness is good nutrition. There are volumes of diet plans on bookshelves; there are tons of diet foods on grocery store shelves. I won't enter the debate about which diet is best. Nutrition, rather, is what I consider to be, an eating life style. My grandfather said it best, "Push yourself away from the table before you're full." For the record, Grandpa Baker lived well into his ninety's and had voted in 18 Presidential elections!!! His nutrition life style included conservative portions of vegetables, fruit, meat, potatoes, and a little bite of something sweet with cherry pie being his favorite.

This may be too simplistic for today. It certainly is easy on the budget. The nutrition "fountain of youth" is in discovering how much fuel your body requires. If you take in more fuel (calories) than your body needs, it is stored as fat. If you take in fewer calories than your body needs, you loose weight. If your goal is to maintain a proper weight for your height, gender, activity level and age, the challenge is to find how many calories it takes to do that. A good place to start is to keep an honest diary of everything you eat and drink for a week. You can then look at some the specifics of your own eating habits by using the information from your diary to discover what percentage of protein, carbohydrate, and fat calories you are consuming. Without promoting any fad diet, my research suggests fat calories should be no more than 30%. Protein calories should be in the 10-15% range. This leaves about 60% for carbohydrate calories.

Another fountain of youth for any age is fitness with an emphasis on exercise whether on land, in our home, or in our wonderful pool here at Americana Cove. We are privileged to have here a tradition of pool exercises available Monday through Friday at 9:30am just by taking part. Countless participants can give testimonials to the assistance in recovering from surgery or illness they have undergone, by coming to our very own "fountain of youth." Others work on various levels of personal fitness. We also have an exercise room at the Club House available daily, as well as a directed exercise class in the Atrium on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 8:15am. Walking is an ageless exercise recommended at every turn of the pen in articles about fitness. I am delighted and encouraged to see we have many walkers here.

Today, the field of exercise science is incredibly popular. Medical and scientific research has proved that just about any type of exercise, from walking to judo, can improve a person's physical and mental health. Remember when the idea of fitness used to be a hard sell? Back in the 1980's there was little scientific data to convince us of the benefits of exercise. Americans, however, still have a high rate of obesity. According to the American Obesity Association, 64.5 percent of adult Americans (about 127-million) are overweight or obese. And this includes over 42% of people over the age of 60. Exercise is a built in partner to any weight loss program.

AARP promotes walking as a way to better health. "Walking is the most popular physical activity in the U.S., and it's no wonder why. It's easy, it's cheap, it's gentle on the body, and it's good for people of all ages and almost any fitness level." Whether you're strolling through a mall, hiking through a park, or walking your dog around the neighborhood, walking lifts your spirits, clears your mind, and improves your health. It also strengthens your bones and muscles, lowers your risk for some diseases, improves sleep, and helps you maintain or lose weight ?…all without fancy equipment, scheduled classes, or a high price tag.

The goal of physical activity should be a moderately paced workout for at least 30 minutes five or six days a week. If losing weight is your goal, you should extend the workout time until you can do daily moderately paced activity for at least an hour. For improving aerobic (heart-lung) fitness, research suggests you need to work out at a more vigorous pace than you would for either health or weight loss. Significant improvements can result from relatively short but high-intensity workouts of up to 20 minutes of vigorous exercise. Please remember, the older we get the more important it is to exercise to the degree we are able.

What more might I say other than get your doctor's OK? Know what level of exercise your doctor says is OK for you. A basic requirement for starting any type, style, or kind of exercise is having a medical OK from one's physician. Then "COME ON" and enjoy the essence of the euphoria which comes with exercise, whether on land or in water, whether in a class or with a partner on walks, or in the exercise room. It is "frustratingly" hard to convince others of how great it is to feel fit other than encouraging others to share the experience of exercise here in our very own local fountain of youth. Maintaining or increasing fitness is ours just for THE DOING IT.


NEIGHBORHOOD CRIME WATCH UPDATE By Barbara Magada

AMERICANA COVE
The next Crime Watch/Crime Prevention/Crime Patrol Meeting will be in the Clubhouse/Atrium
On Friday November 12th at 1:30 P.M.
Speaker S.P.P.D. Officer Chip Wells
Subject: Identity Theft
Refreshments will be available
Be sure to bring friends and/or neighbors
Coordinators: Barb Magada, Jim Chase, And Conrad Weiser


EXERCISE CLASS November 2004 by Sharon S. Miller
Welcome Back!!!

?“Exercising with Sally?” will begin Monday, November 1st in the Atrium. The Class meets at 8:15 AM on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Forty-five minutes of exercise includes warming up, stretching, aerobics, strengthening and toning, using lightweights and cooling down. All are encouraged to exercise at their own individual pace. This over all exercise experience leaves participants applauding the expertise of the instructor as well as their own efforts.
If any one has questions, please call me at 527-8150.


CALLING ALL ARTISTS: By Annette Solomon
Quite a few residents are interested in forming an Artists Group. All artists who create with water colors, oils, acrylics, charcoal, etc. are invited to gather in the Fall to give their ideas and experiences to get started. So many talented individuals can pool their expertise and knowledge to get this dream fulfilled.
Although I am not an artist, I will be glad to assist in any way I can. Are there any potential teachers among you? You could advise and guide other future artists or revive and refresh your own past knowledge.
Think of the possibilities, fun and accomplishment! So, warm up those brushes, points and easels, and let's create. Soon a meeting date and place will be determined. Look for information on the Crafters Bulletin Board soon.
Wouldn't an Artist and Crafters Room be wonderful?
Happy Crafting


SHUFFLEBOARD CLUB NEWS By Jo Waldron
Mark your calendars for November 6th and note that our new meeting time will be 1.00 p.m.
For those of you who have never shuffled, but would like to learn and be part of a fun group of people, you can sign up for lessons. There are sign up sheets in the clubhouse and on the court bulletin board. We offer lessons for most stages of learning from beginners to the more advanced. No equipment is necessary. We have everything you?’ll need to get started.
If you?’d like to check us out you are invited to come to a meeting, always the first Saturday of the month at 1.00 p.m.


CUE CLUB NEWS By Brian Birch
I?’d like to extend my sincerest welcome back to everyone. The time is fast approaching to begin our 2004-2005 season and I am looking forward to seeing all our Cue Club members, as well as (hopefully) many new members. We will have our first Club meeting on November 1, 2004 at 11:00am in the Atrium. At this time, we will set up League play times, review rules for the year, and discuss any old/new business. Play will begin for the men on Monday, November 8th at 7pm, then on Wednesday November 10th, the women will begin their play at 6:30pm, with another men?’s night scheduled for Thursday evening November 11th- again at 7pm. Participation in the League requires annual membership dues of $3 per person, plus a fee of $10 for League play. We do offer a Lifetime membership for $30 as well. Sign-up sheets will be available at the meeting. All Americana Cove residents are welcomed to sign up on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please come join us for a fun-filled season. Everyone is welcome- whether you are an expert or just learning, we?’d love to have you as part of our Club. See you on November 1st!!


PARSEEKERS by Mike Regan
Attention all golfers! Time to get the clubs out and join us for the new season at Airco Golf Club. Our first meeting will be held on Monday, November 1st at 10:00 AM in the Atrium. Our first golf outing will be Tuesday, November 4th. On golf day, everyone should meet at the Clubhouse at 9:00 AM for information on teams and rideshare.
Everyone is welcome to play. Glad to have you all back.


HURRICANE JEANNE by John Bassett
Well, thankfully that is it for the season. As many of you experienced, the damage that occurred was to things that probably could have been maintained better. Personally, after Frances, I replaced one carport anchor, made sure the decorative fencing/skirting was attached firmly, and in general made sure there were no loose exterior items for the wind to catch under.
In my walks around the community I noticed that more than 20 awnings were destroyed or damaged, which of course begs the question, why were they up?
For snowbirds this is not an easy decision, as to lower them for the summer obviously is an indication of a deserted property and an invitation to be robbed.
I don?’t know if you noticed, but most of the damage was caused to west facing awnings, or areas exposed to the west wind. The strongest winds were blowing west to east and that explains that. In future if you are in a rush to batten down the hatches, make sure that the items facing the oncoming winds are tended to first. Carports and awnings on the protected side will probably survive, but not necessarily. Good maintenance is the key.

Rules and Regulations - I (JB) had occasion to review the rules and regulations recently. Couldn?’t help smiling at regulation 45 Underground Utilities. It states that ?“Management must be consulted about the location of underground utilities prior to any digging by or on behalf of any resident in excess of six (6) inches in length?”.
Seems to me all residents exceed six inches in length!!

Multiple Kudos
1st, to Monarch Publishing for getting our October issue out on time, even though the strip mall they?’re in lost its roof during Hurricane Jeanne. That?’s dedication.

2nd, to Richard Norcross, who believed that the expression, ?‘any port in a storm?’ applied in the unusual and exceptional circumstances that occurred the night of September 25/26, (Hurricane Jeanne) and who put the safety of residents first when the County EOC coordinator messed up big time by waiting until midnight to declare a mandatory evacuation, and then not having enough shelters open, and none locally. Richard opened the doors to the hall, which is not an approved shelter, but under the circumstances was certainly a safer place than staying at home, alone. The comfort of having others with you cannot be underestimated.
It is at times like this that red tape and legal liability concerns take a back seat to peace of mind and safety. After all, isn?’t life and safety more important, in fact isn?’t it the only thing that is important?
I have read all the reasons about evacuating, including Ken Hopkins column, and the County EOC officer?’s explanation as to the necessity of the order late in the evening. As far as I am concerned they have all missed one essential point. At 11.30pm many people have gone to bed. They do not stay up to watch TV or listen to the radio just in case there is an order to evacuate. And for many older people hearing at the best of times is difficult. Many slept through the whole experience through no fault of their own. When counties to the north, south and east had declared a state of emergency for mobile homes much earlier, there is simply no excuse for the late call in Pinellas County. Practically all residents have arrangements made for such events. But they need to know there is an emergency first!!
With a large older population in Pinellas County, caution should be the watchword, and the EOC officer failed in this regard. No evacuation should be ordered later than 6.00pm, period!! The County EOC officer had all the same information the other counties did. Why did he wait??
One appreciates the dilemma the Board faces in such situations. They have no choice but to show that they are obeying legalities.
If we need to avoid such a problem in future then a list of all public shelters needs to be maintained by the park, in a conspicuous place, so that residents who need to evacuate, can find out where to go in case the primary shelter, in our case, Meadowlawn school, is not open. Better to be in some well built building, than roaming the streets searching for a needle. And midnight is not the time to be searching for a safe haven. I repeat, the County EOC officer failed us completely, and should have to answer for it. And no amount of sugar coating by elected officials can avoid the fact that this was a big time error.
I personally (JB), had my suspicions about the lack of warning so had my awnings down and all loose items safely stored away.
PS, it is stated that we are in evacuation zone ?‘A?’, but this does not agree with the county designation, which is ?‘B?’. This should be looked into.
3rd. To the Board for the roadwork that is ongoing, and for the decision on the entrance way to the community.


"A DAY AT THE RACES" By Tom Solomon
What a fun day we spent at Rockingham Park in Salem, New Hampshire to enjoy harness racing. Fifty-six (56) New England residents from Americana Cove attended this event on August 25, 2004. Since we reserved space for lunch, the Park dedicated Race No.6 to Americana Cove. Some of us were winners and some of us were losers, but we're not telling.
The First Annual "Day At The Races" event was the inspiration of Louise Pickett and John Mello. It was a pleasure for my wife Annette and I to coordinate the event.
Please reserve the last Wednesday in August, 2005 for the Second Annual "Day at the Races." Look for more information in future Forecasters, and notices will be posted on the bulletin board under "Special Events."
Happy Racing


THE AGE OF REASON OR, REASONABLY AGED
by Richard H. "Dick" Fay

When I reached forty,
I thought," I'm getting old;
Can't lift weights I used to,
Or hear everything I'm told."

I seemed to get over it,
Then I became fifty;
But still eyeing a shapely lass,
And think," that would be nifty".

Then I got to sixty,
Sixty 4ths of July;
Still have a lecherous leaning,
If some gal catches my eye!

Then it becomes seventy,
How the years do fly;
I'm looking at adds for Viagra,
Who needs it? Certainly not I.

Now I'm over eighty,
Takes a little medical aid;
To raise my spirits and then some,
" Come closer, Dear, don't be afraid".


DO YOU HAVE A.A.A.D.D.? submitted by Helen Wright
Recently, I was diagnosed with A.A.A.D.D. - Age Activated Attention Deficit Disorder

This is how it manifests:
I decide to wash my car.
As I start toward the garage, I notice that there is mail on the hall table.
I decide to go through the mail before I wash the car.
I lay my car keys down on the table, put the junk mail in the trashcan under the table, and notice that the trashcan is full.
So?…I decide to put the bills back on the table and take out the trash first.
But?….when I think, since I?’m going to be near the mailbox when I take out the trash
anyway, I may as well pay the bills first.
I take my checkbook off the table, and see that there is only one check left.
My extra checks are in my desk in the study, so I go to my desk where I find the can of
Coke that I had been drinking.
I?’m going to look for my checks, but first I need to push the Coke aside so that I don?’t
accidentally knock it over. I see that the Coke is getting warm, and I decide I should
put it in the refrigerator to keep it cold.
As I head toward the kitchen with the Coke, a vase of flowers on the counter catches
my eye---they need to be watered.
I set the Coke down on the counter, and discover my reading glasses that I?’ve been
searching for all morning.
I decide I better put them back on my desk, but first I?’m going to water the flowers.
I set the glasses back down on the counter, fill a container with water and suddenly I
spot the TV remote.
Someone left it on the kitchen table.
I realize that tonight when we go to watch TV, I will be looking for the remote, but I
won?’t remember that it?’s on the kitchen table, so I decide to put it back in the den
where it belongs, but first I?’ll water the flowers.
I splash some water on the flowers, but most of it spills on the floor.
So I set the remote back down on the table, get some towels and wipe up the spill.
Then I head down the hall trying to remember what I was planning to do.
At the end of the day, the car isn?’t washed, the bills aren?’t paid, there is a warm can of
Coke sitting on the counter, the flowers aren?’t watered, there is still only one check in
my checkbook, I can?’t find the remote, I can?’t find my glasses, and I don?’t remember
what I did with the car keys.
Then when I try to figure out why nothing got done today, I?’m really baffled because I
know I was busy all day long, and I?’m really tired.
Growing older is mandatory
Growing up is optional
Laughing at yourself is therapeutic


NEW YORK NIGHT COMMITTEE by Jean Cruz

Hello everyone! In this and future issues of the FORECASTER we will be profiling some of our members.
Their hard work and zany ideas will make our special night in January a great success!

Mary Rose Randazzo: Born in the Bronx, resided in the Bronx, Brooklyn and Lynbrook, attended the
Sacred Heart Villa School in Dobbs Ferry, and Catherine McAuley HS in Brooklyn. She worked as
an insurance policy rater. Her favorite pastime was visiting Manhattan during the Christmas holidays
Her favorite restaurant is Michael's Italian Restaurant in Brooklyn and her most memorable NY event is Saint Gennaro's Feast in Little Italy.

Leonard John Randazzo: Born in Brooklyn, resided in Brooklyn and Lynnbrook, attended P.S. 164
and the Vocational Food Trades HS, then worked for Con Ed. He is married to Mary and enjoys
the same pastime, the same favorite restaurant and the same memorable event as she.

We have some wonderful people in our committee, so all New Yorkers, come and sit in with us and
meet the rest of us at our next meeting Oct. 21, Thursday. at the Clubhouse. See ya!!


COMPUTERS, LOVE `EM OR HATE THEM
submitted by Lucy LaBerge
For all of us who feel only the deepest love and affection for the way computers have enhanced our lives, read on. At a recent computer expo (COMDEX), Bill Gates reportedly compared the computer industry with the auto industry and stated, "If GM had kept up with technology like the computer industry has, we would all be driving $25.00 cars that got 1,000 miles to the gallon."

In response to Bill's comments, General Motors issued a press release stating: If GM had developed technology like Microsoft, we would all be driving cars with the following characteristics (and I just love this part):

1. For no reason whatsoever, your car would crash twice a day.

2. Every time they repainted the lines in the road, you would have to buy a new car.

3. Occasionally your car would die on the freeway for no reason. You would have to pull to the side of the road, close all the windows, shut off the car, restart it, and reopen the windows before you could continue. For some reason you would simply accept this.

4. Occasionally, executing a maneuver such as a left turn would cause your car to shut down and refuse to restart, in which case you would have to reinstall the engine.

5. Macintosh would make a car that was powered by the sun, was reliable, five times as fast and twice as easy to drive - but would run on only five percent of the roads.

6. The oil, water temperature, and alternator warning lights would all be replaced by a single "This Car Has Performed An Illegal Operation" warning light.

7. The airbag system would ask, "Are you sure?" before deploying.

8. Occasionally, for no reason whatsoever, your car would lock you out and refuse to let you in until you simultaneously lifted the door handle, turned the key and grabbed hold of the radio antenna.

9. Every time a new car was introduced car buyers would have to learn how to drive all over again because none of the controls would operate in the same manner as the old car.

10. You'd have to press the "Start" button to turn the engine off.


HAPPY HINGES Marj Logan
If your body is aching, your suffering from arthritis, pain and stiffness, or you've had joint replacements ---this class is for you. No swimming skills needed. Happy Hinges is designed to limber up your joints plus increase your range of motion. Many doctors recommend low impact water exercises.

The class is taught by a Certified Water Safety and Aqua Fitness Instructor through the American Red Cross, with 52 years of experience. I am also certified in CPR, AED and First Aid.

Classes will be held on Monday, Wednesday, Friday 3:00 to 4:00 at the Pool. Bring a kick board. This past summer we had between 15 to 25 men and women in the class.

I know that many of us are beginning to CREAK, that is why I am bringing this class to our pool rather than teaching it elsewhere. If you have any questions call me at 526-7081.
SEE YOU IN THE POOL.


EDITORIAL - Volunteers by John Bassett

What are volunteers? It is a question that needs no explanation and no answer in Americana Cove. The community is full of volunteers, who lead us in many and sundry activities of a social nature, with many of the activities benefiting us physically.
For the most part none of our volunteers have expected a payment for their services, and that has been the usual way our community operates.
There are occasions when, in order that an activity may take place, that an outsider with the necessary skills is brought in, with the expectation that the group will make donations to compensate the outsider for their time and expertise. I can think of the painting classes, at least one of our exercise groups, and there have been others. But until now all our community experts and leaders have not expected nor received personal compensation. And I would go further and say that many, if not all, have absorbed a lot of personal expenses as well.
For my own part, including all the residents who work on the Forecaster, we absorb all our own expenses, minor though they may be. And I can go down the list of social groups and clubs that presently exist, and I cannot find one that expects or receives donation for their personal enrichment.
So the question is, are donations an acceptable way for a community activity to operate? It is a question that has arisen from time to time. Usually the MAA or governing body, club, group etc. says no to donations. I believe that the decision on this subject should rest with the MAA, and if any club wants, or needs to act differently, then they need to approach the MAA and justify their case for an exception.
For as long as I can recall the MAA has exercised the overall control of community activities, and I believe it should remain this way. Incidentally, the reimbursement of expenses is, and should be acceptable.
It seems to me that paid volunteers(?) could affect our community spirit. In any event it is a matter best left to the MAA and /or the individual clubs/groups. It may well be that if no one volunteers on an unpaid basis, that donations or honorariums will have to be paid, if the demand is there for the activity. However we must be careful to ensure that no one is running a profit making business using our common areas and facilities.
In fact, if anyone deserves compensation, it is our Board members because they put more work and effort into running this community than probably everyone else put together.
There is a way to show appreciation for our leaders, and that usually manifests itself at seasons end, by a gift(s), gift certificates, or by taking the leaders out to dinner.

The bottom line is, the decision as to how Americana Cove proceeds is up to you, the residents. Are you willing to accept leadership that is dependent upon donations to the leader or not? Make your opinions known at the next MAA, Board or Town Hall meeting.

In future, and as a reminder, no article will be accepted that includes a fee/donation of any kind, whether to a resident or non-resident. This is the only way the Forecaster can be clear of any responsibility for being a part of any such activity, until such time as the community acknowledges, as a matter of policy, that paid volunteers are acceptable.
Additionally, the Forecaster will not accept any ads. for an activity that does not have the support of the MAA, whether there is a fee or not. In fact as you all know, any profit making venture ad. needs to be submitted to the publisher, and that policy remains. As well the publisher prohibits the use of local business names in Forecaster articles, unless the business has a paid advertisement.
I was pleased to note that at the Board meeting of October 20th, the subject of pool rules is to be considered. I imagine that any jurisdictional problems as to whom is responsible for pool activities will be sorted out when this matter is discussed.


DEAR READERSDear
From the Editor
The Forecaster is primarily for advance news of Park activities by the various clubs and Park management, and reports of those events as they occur. The Forecaster should also include original items of human interest and entertainment. To this end I encourage you, the residents, to submit articles, short stories, poetry, jokes, pet peeves, how we met, and anything you think might be of interest. For example, I know that many of you have learned, from experience, little tricks of life, cleaning tips, how to make travel reservations, where to go, where to eat etc.
With the amount of life experiences and talent that exist in this Park I should have no trouble in being inundated with your first person stories of whatever you choose. If you have ever wanted to be published, now?’s your chance. I only ask that your entries be based on your actual experiences, or at least direct knowledge of the story you submit. You can submit under a pen name and change the names in the story to protect the innocent-a la Dragnet (I will need your real name). Anyone can copy from other sources, and don?’t get me wrong, those items are welcome too, but I know there is lots of original material out there.
I would also like to point out that all submissions for publication become the property of the Forecaster and as such can be edited for content and clarity. If this is a problem for some then please say so when you submit your item. And as the notice says at the airport, you do not have to go through this screening, but you may give up your right to fly. You should also know that any article that involves activities in the Community needs the endorsement of the MAA.
Now don?’t get too excited. I?’m not planning on changing how I edit. Mostly I correct grammar and spelling and try to eliminate repetitious information and keep writers on their subject. However I do want to make it clear that criticism of individuals and/or derogatory remarks are not permitted. Major edits have been and will always be referred back to the author. So thanks to all for your contributions.
Also on a final note the Forecaster will not accept, or at least will edit out, any articles praising or criticizing announced candidates for the MAROA Board. This will ensure a level playing field and you, the shareholders, can all make up your own minds. Usually there is a meeting where all candidates explain their positions, so be sure to attend.
Have a Happy Thanksgiving.


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

Newspapers and Magazine Recycling
All newspapers are to be placed in the newspaper bins. Please do not put brown paper or plastic bags in the newspaper bins. The bins are only for newspapers.
A magazine bin is located at the storage compound on Americana Drive. Please take all your magazines to this bin.

Phone books should be taken to the dumpster on Mt. Piney. Do not put them in with your regular trash.

Aluminum Cans/Can TABS, Other Aluminum
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. Do not crush the cans please. Aluminum can top tabs can be placed in the jar provided in the clubhouse.
Windows and doors are also accepted. Please deliver to one of the Old Timers aluminum sheds.
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 or for your coolers. 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