Americana Cove

Pray for our Snowbirds safe return-

Mar 31, 2004

PRAYER FOR APRIL

Heavenly Father, Mel Gibson's " Passion of The Christ", based on Scripture, history and some artistic license, certainly gives a graphic description of the agony, ignominity and physical suffering Your Son, our Lord and Savior suffered.
I pray that this film will not undo the peace and harmony that has been growing between the Jewish and Christian faiths.

We have to remember that it was the leaders, religious and political who were responsible, and not the common masses.

Unfortunately we have leaders today, political, business and religious, who from greed and desire for power, need to hear the common theme in all religions, "love your neighbor as yourself?”.
May we each remember that we need to follow this theme as we approach the time in the calendar we celebrate Easter and always.

Help us when we pray to ask for guidance in all that we say, do and think.
Amen.
John Whittredge Hill, Chaplain.


MAROA NEWS
Paul Mattina, President

Sometimes writing an article for the Board can be very easy, other times very difficult. This is one of the latter.

All of us on the Board are very aware of the differences of opinion among the shareholders regarding the governance of our community, but most of us seem to truly believe that the policies we have enacted and the actions we have taken have been and are meant to do the most good for the greatest number of residents. We have the responsibility and obligation to maintain the community at its highest level of fiscal health, while maintaining the best possible lifestyle for our residents and the integrity of our infrastructure, which preserves the value of our community and individual properties. The comments made by our CPA at the Board meeting of March 17th seemed to support our past and present actions, and the vision the Board has to achieve our goals.

It should be understood that none of the Directors has a stake in personal gain from the policies and actions of the Board, other than the pride of seeing our community grow in stature among peer communities and increasingly become the residential community of choice. If we don?’t make progress, we will regress and become a trailer park. Sometimes this must be done with the support of the many, over the resistance of the few.

The year 2003 was unprecedented in the number of appointments made to seats on the Board, since we had a death, several resignations and one who moved away from the park. Those selected were chosen for their talents, expertise and ability to contribute to the park in a significant way. It?’s true that at one time five of the nine directors were appointed versus four that were elected, but after the January election the ratio changed to six elected members and three appointees remaining. Thus, the majority of the current Board has been elected by the shareholders to carry out the objectives of our mission statement, and to make decisions that benefit the majority. If the community does not trust the Board to act in its best interests, free of any personal objectives, then one must question why we have a Board at all. I truly hope that all shareholders can come together to consider the future of Americana Cove, and act in its best interests.

In keeping with the alternating schedule of meetings, we will have our next Town Hall on Friday, the 2nd of April at 10:30 AM in the Clubhouse. All residents are welcome to come and participate in a session of mutual communication. The following month, May, we will have our regular Board meeting, which will be the last for the season. We would like to wish ?“bon voyage?” and a safe trip to those of you who will be leaving our park for milder climes during this month.


ROC Meeting by Ed Mosakowski

Board members and some Finance committee members attended the ROC (Resident Owned Communities) Forum, 12 March 2004, at the Club Chalet MHP. Club Chalet is located on 54thAve at 78th St. The ROC Board President, Bruce McCullough, announced the appointment of Rita Ferguson to the ROC Board. He also thanked Hubert Dorsett for his participation in setting up the group's website. David Bernstein was the featured speaker. His topic was "Problems confronting ROCs?’". Much of his comments were relevant to Cooperatives. Those attending were given much to take with them and think about.

Following Mr. Bernstein's talk there was a question and answer period.


FROM THE MANAGER: Dawn Simmons

AMERICANA DRIVE - DROP OFF
We have volunteers helping to keep trash sorted at the Americana Drive drop off. We want to thank them so much for their efforts.

They tell us they are having a hard time keeping it cleaned up. Trash containers are to hold Household Trash Only. No construction debris such as carpeting, drywall etc. is to be left at Americana Drive. Aluminum cans to be recycled are to be placed in the shed marked for cans. Too often residents leave cans and debris on the ground making it look like a dumping area.

We are asking for everyone who uses the area to place the articles in the proper spot and not to leave anything on the ground.

My idea would be to erect a white PVC fence like we have at the pool and shuffleboard court, and run it clear across the front of the RV Compound area and none of this would be visible from the street.


ACTIVITIES AT THE CLUBHOUSE
Please note the office does not handle tickets etc. for activities at the clubhouse. You need to contact the chairperson of each committee.

LAWNS:
Since last months article on lawn spraying, I received a lot of phone calls and visits. Most residents have shared with me that they in fact use the additional three month service in addition to what MAROA provides. They also state that if the neighbors surrounding them front side or back do not have the service, the weeds and bugs come into their yard -- how true this is.

When doing the four sided park inspection in March I was amazed at how many residents have neglected their yards, and have let them go so long, that they no longer have grass, just weeds.

Maybe when everyone returns in the fall we could arrange a tractor-trailer load of sod and sell it wholesale to the residents.We will address this more during the summer months.

LAWN SPRAYING:
When it was mentioned in the Forecaster that the Park was discontinuing our service with ABC, it meant just the service they do for MAROA. It did not mean to suggest that individual yards that are under contract with ABC would be cancelled.

Residents are calling the office to tell us they have received two treatments, one from ABC and one from Tru Green. If this has happened to you, you need to call the previous service to cancel your contract.

CODE VIOLATION:
We were cited by the City of St. Petersburg as a result of an anonymous phone call to Code Enforcement. The inspectors told me someone called, as a permit was never applied for on the Solar Heating Panels. That is true, however we did not need to pull a permit, as it was an addition to our existing heating system and no electrical work was required. While here the inspector cited us for the ?“Welcome Flags?” and ?“Pardon Our Dust?” banners, so they had to be removed.

Think about this ---Couldn?’t Management have answered the question?

BOAT SLIPS:
If anyone is interested in renting a boat slip we now have five (5) available. They can be paid on a quarterly basis at $50.00 per month. Please contact Barbara at the business office 526-9141.

POOL ?– DIAPERS:
It has been brought to my attention that there are people using the pool wearing Depends. Please be reminded this is a No No!

TIE DOWNS:
Application has been made to the State to be considered for the Tie Down Program. If the application is approved, we will be notified of the date. Normally it is in October. Please come to the office and sign up, as we need 250 residents or more to participate.

The Tie Down Program itself is free, however the approximate cost to each homeowner would be around $85.00 for the removal and replacement of the brick skirting. $10.00 more if you have screening to keep the animals out.


WELCOME NEW RESIDENTS
by Frances McVay

BROWN, Deborah
116 Americana Court
Previously Seawell

KERSLAKE, Bonnie
6907 Americana Drive
Previously Sanderson

LANDRY, Donald & Helen (MA)
7106 Americana Drive
New Home

MATTSON, John (CT)
HAMILTON, Sarah
115 Mt. Isle Avenue
Formerly Kirk

McCURDY, Margaret L.
6819 Mt. Quincy Drive
Previously Beaulieu Estate


SUNSHINE REPORT April 2004
By Gerri Bassett

Deaths
Claire Mueller
Former Resident
Eion Brunton

Nursing Homes
Bob Ortel Carrington Place
Mitzi Delzell Shore Acres
Kay Brownsey Integrated Health Service
Dorothy Goldsworthy Fountain Inn

Hospitals
None known at this time

April Birthdays
01 E. Lane Whitley
02 Annette Solomon
03 Loretta Berg
04 Sil Oliveira
07 Helen Smith
08 Dick Stannard
09 Bob Hoey
10 Eva Pratt
Don Harris
11 Eunice Roe
Robert Hamel
12 Richard Norcross
13 Ted Kwiakpowski
19 Peggy Hubrich
21 Marie Sirois
22 Barbara Magada
23 Nicole Baxter
23 Juanita Smouse
24 Pauline Macomber
Mark Faxon
25 Gilbert LeBrun
Morris Van Patten
Jerry Regan
26 Howard Brown
Linda Ward
27 Ralph Rogers
29 Paul Ghezzi
Pauline Newman

April Anniversaries
06 Leni and Pete Lambert 36 years
Bonnie and Jim Parr 07 years
07 Eleanor and Earl French 62 years
10 Nancy and John Hill 56 years
12 Ruth and Paul Beauregard 60 years
20 Billie and Cleve Ballentine 58 years
Fran & Jim Bowling 41 years
30 Linda and George Meyers 32 Years


IN MEMORIAM -Eion Brunton
By Joe and Daisy Pereira
On March 4th, 2004, we lost a favorite former resident, Eion Brunton from Hamilton,
Ontario. Eion was 81 years old and died here in Florida from a heart attack. He was laid
to rest in Hamilton on March 11 th.2004.
Eion and Helen attended Vespers most Sundays and he will be remembered for helping many people in the park. He was a wonderful giving man and a great family man who loved his golf and always had a great joke to tell. A tree has been planted on the 3rd. hole at Cypress Links by his golfing buddies in his memory. Please stop by and remember a remarkable man.
To Helen and family we send our deepest sympathy.


WHAT SONG IS SUNG BY MORE PEOPLE THAN ANY OTHER? Submitted by Gerri Bassett

In the English language the Happy Birthday song is considered to be sung most often. Written by Mildred and Patty Hill in 1893, it was first
called "Good Morning To All' and was intended as a welcome song for schoolchildren. The sisters didn't obtain a copyright until 1935, so the lyrics (but not the melody, in this case) are covered by copyright law until 2010. You can sing it to your husband at home but not in public unless you want to pay a royalty. This is why some restaurants twist the lyrics to a form
that's more acceptable and more interesting!


SHAREHOLDERS CONCERNED ABOUT THEIR RIGHT TO VOTE
by Tom Fielhauer

On Sunday, March 14th, there was a gathering of shareholders in the Clubhouse to talk about the new budget approval process that many shareholders seemed dissatisfied with. Many thanks to the 200 or so people who took the time to attend this important get-together.
Since the November budget meeting, when the shareholders were told they had no right to vote on the annual budget, various efforts have been made to again allow shareholders a voice in the financial affairs of their community ?–and this event was just the latest.

The purpose of getting together was to communicate to those interested shareholders what options they have if they want the right to vote. It was explained that the least expensive and most friendly approach would be to amend the Bylaws. As only the shareholders can amend the Bylaws, a grass roots effort was begun to obtain the consent, in writing, of a majority of all shareholders. This action is being taken in accordance with Article XV of our Articles of Incorporation and, as of March 18th, well over 200 shareholders have already given their consent by signing the agreement.

We are thankful for the overwhelming support and, if you want the opportunity to sign the consent agreement and have your right to vote secured in the Bylaws, you can phone me at 525-2458.


COVE CORNER
By Ken Hopkins

MAA ?– The day I was elected president of MAA I mentioned that fact to a friend. He immediately started a discussion of the seawall, the front entrance, the budget, etc. ?“Wait, wait,?” I said, ?“I?’m on the MAA council, not the MAROA Board of Directors.?” Turns out my friend had no idea what MAA was. For those of you who may not fully understand MAA, allow me the following.

MAA (Mobel Americana Association) is the social and recreational ?“umbrella?” that includes all of the clubs and groups in Americana Cove. Par Seekers, Shufflers, Bridge Club, Bowling, Old Timers, and on and on. Look on the inside cover of any issue of the Forecaster. There you will find a list of all of the officially approved MAA organizations. MAA by-laws state that the purpose of the MAA is ?“to promote and provide entertainment, recreational and social events for the residents of the Park.?”

The MAA council is the governing body consisting of elected officers and a representative from every MAA club. The council?’s job is to make sure that all of the recreational and social activities run smoothly and you have a good time. They plan the use of common facilities such as the clubhouse and Atrium to make sure that every group has their own time and space. In fact, the MAA?’s prime mission is to make sure that everyone has fun! When Beck and I made the decision to buy a home in a community instead of on a street corner, it was because we wanted all that social and recreational activity. Because of MAA, Americana Cove was a very attractive community to us and made the decision to buy here an easy one. So, get involved, join one or more of the clubs, and have fun!

AND THEN THE ROOF BLEW OFF ?– The storm of February 24th wreaked havoc around the Cove. Trees were uprooted, flowerpots went flying, and worst of all, a couple of roofs were torn loose on Americana Lane and Mt. Madison. In fact, some of the roof material blew into a home on Mt. Lancaster and damaged that one as well. Although severe storms are more common during the summer, the February storm was a good reminder that bad weather can occur anytime in Florida. That lovely picnic table and umbrella in your backyard can easily become a flying missile with a 50 mph wind. In particular, this might be a good reminder to once again check your insurance policy regarding storms, wind damage, flooding, and similar. You may think your insurance company is your friend but they?’re not. They are just waiting for a chance to surprise and disappoint you, so double check that policy. I hope our residents who suffered damage in February were well treated by their insurance companies.

PENNIES IN A STREAM ?– Falling leaves of a sycamore?…Moonlight in Vermont. That?’s how the song goes and what a grand night we had courtesy of New England and the Vermonters. Thanks to Reg and Sally Corliss for arranging such a nice evening for all of us to enjoy. The food was great (what DO you call that chicken dish?), prizes flowed a-plenty, and the ceiling decorations were awesome! Beck won one of the top prizes, Bernie the Bear, and we have special plans for him. We?’ve decided he?’s too cute to keep just for ourselves so we?’re going to find a way to share him with all you New Englanders. We will chronicle his travels with us through the summer (Wisconsin State Fair to get some good cheese) and then turn him over to someone else at next year?’s New England Night. As enjoyable as the evening was, I?’m sure the Massachusetts crowd is already planning to top it for next year. Can?’t wait.

SPOTLIGHT ON YOUR NEIGHBOR ?– Russ Steele is in the Hall of Fame. He was inducted into the Illinois State University Athletic Hall of Fame in 1997 after 42 years of service to ISU athletics. Russ became the university?’s first Sports Information Director in 1947 and held that position for 35 years. His love of sports also led him to become the head coach of the conference winning ISU tennis team although he claims to not be a very good tennis player. Of course we all know his love of golf and service to Par Seekers. Russ won ISU golf tournaments in 1968 and 1978. As a student athlete, Russ was a cross-country runner. Russ and his lovely wife Norma came to Mobel Americana in 1985 from Normal, Illinois (how come we don?’t have an Illinois night?). Their roots are still in Normal and they return every summer to be near their three children and all their friends.

Russ has a long history of service here as well. He was on the Homeowners Board with Virginia Curtis before the Park became resident owned. He was the winter editor of the Forecaster for six years prior to Dick Linville. He is the current president of the Computer Club and his most recent accomplishment was the production of the video history of our community with the help of Gene Seawell. When I asked Russ what improvements he?’d like to see here in the Cove, he said he thought our grounds and landscaping could use some improvement and maybe the Park should take over weeding and fertilizing. Thanks, Russ, for all you have done for our community.

MARINA POLICY ?– Americana Cove has a lovely public marina with several slips available for rent to residents who own a boat but may not have access to a dock on their property. The Americana Boat Club is working with Management to make sure that the dock stays user friendly for all. That means that some usage policy will be established for the good of all. For example, fuel containers will not be stored at the marina. Storage containers for personal use will be allowed but only at the far end of each slip. No smoking signs will be posted. The main walkway will be kept clear of storage containers and clutter. Water hoses will be provided for each slip. A safety ladder will be provided in case of an unfortunate tumble into the water. As the marina policy is developed and implemented, all details will be posted and slip renters will be notified. Thanks to all for your cooperation.

A ROSE BY ANY OTHER NAME ?– Since our name change to Americana Cove, I have been struggling to come up with a suitable name for our residents. ?“Americans?” immediately came to mind but that seemed to paint with too broad a brush. Clearly there are some Americans who don?’t live here. One of my friends is partial to the term ?“Covites?” but that seemed to me too reminiscent of ?“Shiites,?” a name that in some parts of the world is not only controversial but can be downright dangerous. I next thought of ?“Covians?” and it seems to me that is a perfect solution. I believe the only close match is ?“Jovians,?” a term reserved for the residents of the distant planet Jupiter. Since they are so far away, I could hardly imagine they would complain and so I encourage you all to use the term ?“Covians?” when referring to the denizens of 7201 1st St. North. Thank you.

UNATTENDED FISHING LINES - As I came back from an outing the other day on my pontoon boat one of my guests yelled, "watch out." I was about to run over a fishing line in the water from an unattended fishing pole. I steered sharply to port fully expecting the line to wrap in my prop and pull the fishing pole into the water. Fortunately I missed it but it was a good reminder to all that there is a state law prohibiting unattended fishing lines. Also, the boat club has asked people not to do this. One of our members ran into a line a while back and was hit in the face. Certainly none of us want a bunch of fishing line wrapped around our prop. I am asking everyone to please refrain from throwing your line out and going off to dinner. Fishing is great but stay with your line until you catch something. Thank you for your cooperation.


MAA NEWS FOR APRIL
Ken Hopkins, President

Watch out for those April Fool?’s jokes! The highlight of this month is the big party to celebrate Jim and Betty Chase?’s 50th wedding anniversary. Jim and Betty will renew their wedding vows on Saturday, April 3rd. Festivities start at 3:30 in the clubhouse with an adult beverage, followed at 4:00 by the wedding ceremony itself. Dinner will be served at 5:00 followed by entertainment at 6:30. Tickets for this event were handed out during March at the Old Timer?’s luncheons.

Council meeting will be Tuesday, April 6th in the Atrium at 10:00 A.M. followed with the monthly MAA luncheon on Wednesday, April 7th.

Card night will be Saturday, April 17th at 6:30

The new slate of officers for MAA for 2004/2005 consists of Joan Mitchell, VP, Nora Adell Andrews, Treasurer, Conrad Weiser, Secretary, and Ken Hopkins, President. We are looking forward to serving MAA during the coming year and making sure that you all have fun! Thank you to Bob Larsen, Dick Fay, Conrad Weiser, and Rita Ferguson for their service to MAA during the past year.


HAPPY EASTER FROM MAA?…..
White Elephant Update Beck Hopkins & Pat Fielhauer

Whew! What an incredible couple of days! Setting up the hall, loading and unloading all the goodies, sorting and pricing, selling, selling, selling and then putting the hall back together! The result? Over $5,000 for MAA projects and expenses! Every club in the community was involved and many individuals went above and beyond to help make this event a success. Thanks to all! A final White Elephant report will be given at the April MAA Luncheon.


AMERICANA "OLD TIMERS" by Dick Fay

When I first attended "Old Timers",
It seemed like I wasn't qualified;
I had only been here a few months,
While some had lived here and died.
But it isn't about length of membership,
Of course, it is about age;
It gives some of us one more time,
To present something on life's stage.
There are many cheerful volunteers,
Who deliver food to our table;
And people working in the kitchen,
As long as they are able.
Congeniality is the word,
As we chat, meet new friends and old;
And these moments we spend together,
Have a value greater than gold.



VESPERS Gerri Bassett
Come and worship with us on Sunday April 4th. The minister will be Mark Cram, Riviera United Methodist Church.

On April 11th the last service of the season will be a SUNRISE SERVICE, held in the Atrium at 7:00 A.M. What a beautiful sight to see the sun come up.

The minister will be Rev. Glen Guam, a retired Methodist minister. Refreshments will be served after the service.

We thank all the people who attended Vespers November thru April. Have a wonderful summer and we will see you all in the fall. Happy Easter To All.

We also want to thank Rex Eaton for filling in for us at the March 14 service.

Vesper Committee and Chairperson Don Delzell


THE HISTORY OF BINGO
submitted by Annette Solomon

In the US, bingo was originally called "beano". It was a country fair game where a dealer would select numbered discs from a cigar box and players would mark their cards with beans. They yelled "beano" if they won.

The game's history can be traced back to 1530, to an Italian lottery called "Lo Giuoco del Lotto D'Italia," which is still played every Saturday in Italy. From Italy the game was introduced to France in the late 1770s, where it was called "Le Lotto", a game played among wealthy Frenchmen.

The Germans also played a version of the game in the 1800s, but they used it as a child's game to help students learn math, spelling and history.
When the game reached North America in 1929, it became known as "beano".

It was first played at a carnival near Atlanta, Georgia. New York toy salesman Edwin S. Lowe renamed it "bingo" after he overheard someone accidentally yell "bingo" instead of "beano". He hired a Columbia University math professor, Carl Leffler, to help him increase the number of combinations in bingo cards. By 1930, Leffler had invented 6,000 different bingo cards. (It is said that Leffler then went insane.)

A Catholic priest from Pennsylvania approached Lowe about using bingo as a means of raising church funds. When bingo started being played in churches it became increasingly popular. By 1934, an estimated 10,000 bingo games were played weekly, and today more than $90 million dollars is spent on bingo each week in North America alone.


SHUFFLEBOARD CLUB NEWS
By Jo Waldron

FINAL TEAM STANDINGS:
Nova Red 3rd place
Nova Blue 4th place
Friendship 1: 2nd place
Friendship 2: 1st place
Blue Sky: 1st place
Jubilee: 2nd place

Thanks to the motivators and teachers and our own determination we had another great season. Congratulations to all!

TOURNAMENT WINNERS
JUBILEE LEAGUE
Consolation
1st place: Sil Oliveira

NOVA LEAGUE
Main Event
1st Place: T Bob Buckland
4th Place: Dave Vogle

Consolation
2nd Place: Lois Vogle
3rd Place: Lorraine Boshek

Agerholm Trophy (Red & Black): Lenore Helson

PARK SINGLES
Main Event
1st place: Sil Oliveira
2nd place: Doug Reid
3rd place: Jerry Spetz
4th Place: Don Willett
Consolation
1st place: Ruth Healy
2nd place: Ray Macomber
3rd place: Jo Waldron
4th place: Frank Pereira

FRIENDSHIP LEAGUE DOUBLES
Main Event
4th place: Sil Oliveira & Nick Misciagna

FRIENDSHIP LEAGUE SINGLES
Main Event ?“A?”
1st place: Sil Oliveira
4th place: Tom Solomon
Consolation ?“A?”
3rd place: Fod Wright
Main Event ?“B?”
1st Jo Waldron
Consolation ?“B?”
4th place: Shirley Wadsworth

New officers for the 2004/2005 season are President, Tom Solomon; Vice President, Jo Waldron; Secretary, Lorraine Boshek; Treasurer, Ginger Phillips. Many thanks to our out-going President, Tee Phillips. This is a big job and this is a big man, who was up to all the challenges this position posed.

At our March meeting Chic Kageyama was recognized for his years of teaching and service to the club by being chosen for lifetime membership. Well deserved- Congratulations.

The shuffleboard club is grateful to three groups for their generous donations to our court improvement fund. The MAA and the Old Timers donated $1000 each. Roger Cathcart presented us with a check for $500 from the Canadian Club. These contributions are a nice boost in our drive for a new curtain enclosure on the east (water) side of the court. We are gathering estimates and are optimistic that work will begin in the near future. Thank you for your support.


CUE CLUB NEWS
By Brian Birch

It is my pleasure to announce this season's Cue Club League Champions. Our tournaments went well, everyone exhibited the best of sportsmanship and we were glad to see a few spectators on the sidelines watching. I'd like to thank the Captains, the players and the referees for their time and dedication to our Cue Club. We couldn't do it without you!

Here are the winners:
MEN'S LEAGUE- SINGLES: 1st Place- Sil Oliveira, 2nd Place- Gary Ebert, 3rd Place- Nelson Taylor. DOUBLES: 1st Place- Leo LaBerge and Joe Werner, 2nd Place- Ed McGrath and Nick Misciagna, 3rd Place-Ed Kelly and Sil Oliveira.
WOMEN'S LEAGUE- SINGLES: 1st Place- Arlene Elwell, 2nd Place- Lou Ayotte, 3rd Place- Sunny Knutson.
DOUBLES: 1st Place: Louisa Layner and Lorraine LeRoy (our own "L&L"), 2ND Place- Irene Goulet and Peggy Hubrich, 3rd Place- Nancy Hubartt and Jackie Hanlon.

One of the nicest things for me to see each year is the skill development of individual players and the camaraderie of the teams in the tournament. Once again we had over 50 participants, with lots of laughter and suspense along the way. A sincere "congratulations" goes out to everyone who played. And I must offer a special congratulations to the players who attained honorable mention for this year's season: the two HIGHEST AVERAGES went to Brian Birch and Dotte Farren, and the two MOST IMPROVED players selected were Bob Kmieciak and Nora Adell Andrews. GREAT JOB! And lastly I'll mention an award we gave to two members- the "8 on the Break". This is an extremely difficult feat- players can play a lifetime and never achieve this honor. So we applaud Ed Higgins and Sil Oliveira. Way to go!

We are still offering Mixed Doubles play on Sunday evenings at 7pm. Come join us and have some fun.


DUPLICATE BRIDGE ?– Gerri Bassett and Shirley Beauchamp Directors

Sunday February 22, 2004
North & South
1. Daphne & Dick Gunton
2. Tie
Shirley Beauchamp & Jo Waldron
Anne Kocher & Tex Batchelder
Clara Roy & Anna Cormier
East & West
1. Donna & Ozzie Swett
2. Gerri & John Bassett
3. Helen & Walter Smith

Sunday February 29, 2004
North & South
1. Agnes & Jerry Howland
2. Daphne & Dick Gunton
3. Anne Kocher & Tex Batchelder
East & West
1. Gerri & John Bassett
2. Donna & Ozzie Swett
3. Helen & Walter Smith

Sunday March 8, 2004
North & South
1. Anna Cormier & Tom Mall
2. Lucy & Roger La Berge
3. Daphne & Dick Gunton
East & West
1. Gerri & John Bassett
2. Lenore Helson & Shirley Wadsworth
3. Betty & Tom Davis

Sunday March 14, 2004
North & South
1. Tie
Milene & Al Wingrove
Elizabeth Chapman & Michelle Willett
2. Beverly Hamel & Linda Cook
East & West
1. Donna & Ozzie Swett
2. Gerri & John Bassett
3. Betty & Tom Davis

Remember, everyone one have a nice Easter and no Duplicate that Sunday.


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.


HOBBY SHOP

Do you have questions about the proper use of a particular piece of equipment in the Hobby Shop? Brian Birch will be doing a Q&A session immediately following the Hobby Shop meeting that will be held on Monday, April 5 at 9:00 a.m.
Need a key? Contact Hobby Shop President, Leo Laberge or Ruth Healy. After signing the liability waiver (which will also get you on the roster!) and paying $2.00 you will be given a key to the Shop.


NOTICES
Forecaster Deadlines-

All items and other information for the Americana Cove Forecaster may be placed in the box just inside the entry doors to the Atrium, or sent electronically. All items to be in the original type, no photocopies please, in BLACK INK on full size 8 1/2 by 11 paper. Deadline for May for all articles, the 19th of April. 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.
Needed ?– Someone to deliver the Forecaster on Mt. Piney Avenue between Americana Drive and the laundry. Contact the Editor. Thank you.

Calendar ?– Deadline for entries will be the 17th of each month. Please note that all calendar submissions must come from, or be approved by the MAA.

Monthly Bridge Lunch - It will be on April 21st. All Bridge players are welcome to come and enjoy some fellowship with their friends and neighbors.

Thank you ?– from the Editor. I?’ve placed so many of these over the last 4 or 5 years and now it?’s my turn. To everyone who wished me well, sent cards or contacted me by phone or in person to ask after me, thank you all. As so many have said, it is comforting to know that we have so many good friends and neighbors who are solicitous of us when we have needs. My particular thanks to John Hill for his visit and his prayer, and to my wife Gerri, for taking care of me after my operation.


WONDERFUL PEOPLE by Tom Wallace, Pugwash, Nova Scotia

Only July 6, 2003 my wife Jony had a serious accident and had to be airlifted to Halifax, Nova Scotia. Even now, it's too painful to contemplate what could have happened, but miraculously didn't occur. Because of the dedicated medical attention of the staff of both the medical facilities in Halifax and Pugwash, she is home and life is back to normal. .

From the moment the accident occurred, the wonderful people of this area reacted, as we knew they would. The calls, cards, gifts and visits continue to this day. It may be true that you can find nice people anywhere if you look for them, but in Nova Scotia it's just easier, for there are so many extraordinary human beings who make their homes here.

Just a few years ago, we arrived as strangers from the United States and this wonderful community truly took us in.
They have taken the time and have made the effort to allow us to feel accepted. We consider ourselves extremely fortunate to have such exceptional friends and neighbours. On behalf of my wife and children, I would like to say thank you.

Editor?’s Note: Tom, as many of you know was heavily involved in the recent Canada night held in Americana Cove. And as Editor, and a former Nova Scotian, with most of my family still in Nova Scotia, I could not pass up the opportunity to pass on the merits of what I still consider my home.

WARNING ?– In a recent edition of one of our daily newspapers there was a piece on identity theft. It was well worth reading. The two main points I noted were to be careful how you disposed of garbage. For example do you get lots of credit offers? Do you simply throw them out without shredding or tearing the paper up? Well theft IDers?’ go through the garbage and use these forms to make credit applications in your name. Here in our community of course we have controlled access to the community and a fairly safe pickup system. But it could still happen as we have visitors, and by this I don?’t necessarily mean your friends, but tradesmen, deliverymen etc. Can we be too careful? No!! The second way for identity theft is to place your mail on your mailbox for the mailman to take. But how do you know the mailman took it? The recommendation is to mail your mail directly in the mailbox to avoid problems.

In a similar vein, many of you, like me, received in the March mail a pamphlet from ?“Rescue Line?”. This is simply another scam designed to get vital personal information out of you. Never complete unsolicited forms that you receive in the mail. You are simply asking for trouble.


FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY
By Linda Lou Fairbanks

" In the case of good books, the point is not to see how many of them you can get through, but how many can get through to you." -Mortimer Adler

We had another great Library meeting last month, with one of the highlights being the review, discussion, voting and final selection of our reading list for 2004-2005. Rita Lewis once again did an outstanding job of researching and compiling ballots for us. (Kudos' to you Rita!) We had 20 books submitted for consideration and we narrowed it down to six: 1 Non-Fiction/Historical- ~
Orchid Thief by S. Orlean, 320 pgs; 1 Saga- Harvester by G.S. Porter, 516pgs; and 4 Fiction- The Secret Life of Bees by Sue M. Kidd, 336pgs; 5 People You Meet in Heaven by M. Albom, 198pgs; The Hot Flash Club by N.Thayer 336pgs; and The Quilters Apprentice by J. Chiaverini, 272pgs. We also selected the hostesses for next season. Be sure to look for more details on our bulletin board in the Clubhouse. We'll post the reading list there before all our friends begin to head north for the summer months.

Rita Lewis reported on our Candy Sale efforts and asked for a few more volunteers to finish out the month. Thank you to everyone who greeted our neighbors at the various functions with pleas for "buy yourself a treat!" and a special thank you to all that helped our cause by purchasing candy or chips.

We had a lively and interesting discussion of our
monthly selection- John Grisham's A Painted House. Rita Lewis and Rita Varney provided us with background information and lead us in a series of questions regarding the book. It was interesting to note this novel was a departure from Grisham's usual murder mysteries, and focused more on the intricate relationships of families with little if any luxuries day-to-day. We talked a great deal about our own memories and experiences of growing up without many of the conveniences we now take for granted. It was lots of fun. Our hostess for April will be Nora Adell Andrews. She'll be telling us all about Hallie Palmer's escapades in Beginner's Luck, by Laura Pederson. Come join us for a great time.


LINE DANCE UPDATE Norine Fisher

I would like to thank all of the line dancers and my friends for sharing my Birthday Line Dance Party. Teaching all of you this past season was my pleasure and I hope to do the same in the next year.

I would also like to thank a very special friend, John Layner, for making sure that all of my articles in the Forecaster got in on time. Until we dance again, have a safe and enjoyable summer.


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

Thought ?– Life holds so many priceless things.
Word Definitions ?– Politician; One who shakes your hand before elections and your confidence after.

Words to Live By The only disability in life is a bad attitude. Scott Hamilton

Things to think About ?– That one should keep their words soft and tender, because tomorrow you may have to eat them.

Truths ?–In the end, we will conserve only what we love, we will love only what we understand, we will understand only what we are taught.
Baba Dioum

Old Times ?– When I started driving who would have thought gas would cost 29 cents a gallon.
When? ?– are they going to market?’ Teamate?’, that you can put in your coffee?
Wondering? When are all our social clubs going to change their names to ?‘Americana Cove?’, and all their signs, shirts etc.?

Groaners ?– Alexander the Great was given a lovely piece of colorful cloth that changed colors depending on the time of day and how much sunlight fell on it. This special piece of cloth became known as Alexander?’s Rag Time Band.

DEAR CRAFTERS
By Annette Solomon

The Crafters meet every Monday from 6 to 9pm in the Clubhouse. If 6 is too early, then come at 6:30 or 7:15, it's o.k., and you may leave at any time. We are very informal and friendly. You may learn a new craft or bring whatever project you are working on at home and join us. On the first Monday of each month, from October to May, we hold our short business meeting at 6:30pm.
Lessons in crocheting, knitting, counted-cross stitch and embroidery are offered anytime at every meeting, on a one-on-one basis and at your own speed.

Supplies and lessons are FREE for learning these techniques. Our Crafters Club has grown to over 60 members.

Sixteen "angel blankets" and twenty-four newborn caps have been warmly received by Bay Front Medical and Children's Hospital. Thank you for keeping these newborn babies and preemies warm and toasty. Please continue making these items. My last delivery will be at the end of April and will resume in the fall.

At upcoming luncheons, we will be raffling our NEW NO-SEW FLEECE BLANKETS. Mary Anne Stanley will have raffle tickets available. Please visit her lovely display.

We want to THANK everyone who has supported our Craft Corner this year. We are able to buy any new materials needed. THANK you for the many donations of supplies such as yarn, thread, material, needles, hooks, pattern books, etc.
.
We try to keep everything but space is limited. There are just so many closets we can use and they are full. We need a large room of our own. A Crafters Room. We must share space with other clubs. No problem so far. We meet in the library but spill over into the hall. At times, we have to move to the Atrium.

There is an exercise room, a billiards room, a library, a lovely atrium and a large clubhouse. But no craft room. WHY??? Oh! If we only had more space to work in and to store our supplies and ready-made display and sell items.

Many creative residents have inquired about joining us. We need space to expand. We need space for our sewing machines, ironing boards, cutting tables, easels and paints, weaving, woodworking, etc. etc. Why, we need?… a building! So we have started a Mustard Seed Building Fund. A
little reflection during the Lenten season. The New Testament according to Matthew says; "The kingdom of heaven (a craft building) is like a mustard seed (dream) that, when sown springs up and becomes the largest of plants and puts forth large branches (rooms), so that the birds (crafters) of the sky can dwell (work) in its shade. Also ?“1F YE HAVE FAITH AS A GRAIN OF MUSTARD SEED, NOTHING SHALL BE IMPOSSIBLE UNTO YOU" Matt. 17:20. The Mustard Seed has been planted and is being fertilized. WATCH US GROW!!! There is so much dormant talent in our fast growing community. We want to wake you up.
Please come forward and join us. New ideas are invigorating.

Since this is April, we are winding down and finishing most projects such as our famous decoupage plates, macram?© chairs and fleece blankets.

Most crafters have projects to work on during the summer months. In the fall, we will be busy planning the Craft Bazaar. We will be renting tables again to crafty vendors. Look for more information about the Craft Bazaar in future Forecasters. Even though many crafters go north for the summer, gatherings are still happening in the clubhouse every Monday. See Rosemary Kegebien for her schedule of summer projects. Keep those happy crafty hands moving. May you
have a happy and productive summer.
Happy Crafting!!!


THOSE FLORIDA DRIVERS submitted by Marilyn Waltz

An elderly Floridian called 911 on her cell phone to report that her car has been broken into.
She is hysterical as she explains her situation to the dispatcher: "They've stolen the stereo, the steering wheel, the brake pedal and even the accelerator!" she cried. The dispatcher said, "Stay calm. An officer is on the way."
A few minutes later, the officer radios in. "Disregard." He says. "She got in the back-seat by mistake.

Really - submitted by Lucy Laberge

A 90-year-old man said to his doctor, "I've never felt better. I have an 18-year old bride who is pregnant with my child. What do you think about that?"
The doctor considered his question for a minute and then said, "I have an elderly friend who is a hunter and never misses a season. One day when he was going out in a bit of a hurry, he accidentally picked up his umbrella instead of his gun. When he got to the Creek, he saw a rabbit sitting beside the stream. He raised his umbrella and went, 'bang, bang' and the rabbit fell dead. What do you think of that?"
The 90-year-old said, "I'd say somebody else killed that rabbit."
The doctor replied, "My point exactly."


RED HAT CHILIES OF AMERICANA COVE
Marilyn Waltz, QM

The Red Hat Society is a social phenomenon that began as a result of a few women deciding to greet middle age with verve, humor and elan. Red Hatters go to tea, sail the high seas, join parades and go on motorcycle rides. It's been six years since the first group of women met for tea in red hats and purple outfits.

They have been studied and questioned and word is spreading like red and purple wildfire. The Red Hat Society is changing the way we view getting older and women over the age of 50 want to be part of it. This March, the RHS registered its 20,000th chapter

Physicians are prescribing the Red Hat Society to patients to improve their physical and mental health; university staff and graduate students are exploring the impact of the RHS on society; an award-winning Canadian documentary poignantly connects the aging process and the health benefits of RHS membership; and later this year, Penn State University will embark on a study that explores the positive health connection between the RHS and the aging process

With an estimated 20 members per chapter, there are more than 400,000 members of the Red Hat Society. In addition to all 50 U.S. states, chapters are popping up in Canada, Europe and Australia, strengthening the international contingency.


GARDEN CLUB NEWS
By Jerry Regan

Have you noticed how lovely the Rose Garden looks? Garden Club members trimmed
the roses and planted new ones in spaces where others had expired. Five members were
there early on February 21 to "get down and dirty." They were Don Delzell, Nancy
Hubartt, Doc Jones, Dottie Love, and Louise Pickett. Congratulations to you all for
doing a beautiful job.

The speaker for our March 9 Garden Club meeting was Jene, who is heavily involved in the tropical fruit tree business. She specializes in tropical fruit trees, many of them dwarf trees such as citrus, mango, fig, and avocado. Jene spoke on the many exotic trees that she has and how they will flourish in our Florida climate. There is the Litchi Nut tree that produces fruit which tastes like strawberries, and the Jack Fruit from Thailand which smells like pineapple and bananas and produces 40-pound fruit. And the strangest
of all is the Miracle Fruit tree that produces bright red berries that sweeten whatever you eat afterwards, it seems to numb the bitter side of your taste buds for about 20 minutes.

We thoroughly enjoyed hearing about all of the trees Jene presented to us, and learning
how to care for the trees we have in our own yards. If you're available in July she has a Tropical Fruit Fair in which there will be all kinds of fruit to sample.

We elected new officers for the coming year, well some new and some repeaters. Our new President will be Lorraine Leroi, our Vice President will be Linda Fairbanks, Secretary and Treasurer are again Jerry Regan and Nancy Hubartt.

The Garden Club bus trip for March was to the Botanical Gardens and Heritage Village.
Our next meeting is our final meeting, which is the annual picnic at Bay Pines. Join us if
you can, it's always a good time with good food and pleasant company.


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 APRIL 9th, 2004 @ 1:30 P.M.
Speaker will be from St. Petersburg Fire Dept.
Of course Refreshments will be available
Please be sure to bring Friends or Neighbors
Coordinators: Barb Magada, Jim Chase & Conrad Weiser'


PAR SEEKERS GOLF
By Mike Regan

The results of the club championship tournament held on March 11 are as follows:
Division Name Net
Men
A 1. Dick Gunton 59
2. Bill Ervin 59
3. Ken Hopkins 61
L.G. Al Wingrove 60
B 1. Syd Todd 59
2. Reg Corliss 60
3. Paul Line 61
C. 1. Bob Hoey 60
2. Oliver Ferrier 61
3. Mickey Vieira 63
Women.
1. Barbara Vliek 60
2. Peg Truex 62
3. Vera Bourque 65
The results of the March 19 Contest are as follows:
Longest Drive M. Dave Negrych
Longest Drive W. Leni Lambert
Closest to Pin M. Norm Begin
Closest to Pin W. Milene Wingrove
Fewest Putts M. Reg Corliss
Fewest Putts W. Vera Bourke

The Golf Banquet on March 22 was a great success. The food was wonderful, the ladies were (of course) beautiful, and the men were looking good.

We, who are on the board, wish to thank all of our golfers for making this another successful year. My special thanks to Pete, Leni, Marcia and Roger for all of their hard work.

We are sorry the play in April was cut short for some of our golfers, but we needed to get
our money from Mainlands to facilitate our move to Airco for next year. We are planning some events at Airco in April, which will be posted at a later date.


EDITORIAL by John Bassett

In this edition you will note a piece by Tom Fielhauer, concerning the meeting of shareholders.
This meeting of course was a direct result of the passing of the recent annual budget by the Board. As you will recall there was great opposition to some of the Board proposals.

I am not going into the merits of whether the correct decision was made or not. Suffice it to say there is a great deal of discontent over how the matter was resolved.

Now let me say I have empathy for our Boards. They have a difficult job to do, and obviously put themselves on the firing line with many of the tough decisions that have to be made. Unpaid and spending many hours on our behalf. However when the Board?’s idea of our future needs runs counter to the majority, or even a large percentage of the members, it behooves them to pay attention.

When this occurs it is important to have the membership as fully informed and involved as possible. It is vitally important that we all, or at least most of us, share the same vision as to how we should shape our future. This involves good public relations and excellent communications. If this occurs, but the membership still has problems with plans as proposed by a Board, then unless a change in the plans occurs, and/or common ground is reached in important decisions, there will be alienation of the members toward the Board, no matter how good the decisions.

The argument that a Board is elected to make all decisions flies in the face of American democracy. The Pinellas County Board of Commissioners has to go to the people to raise sales taxes to pay for special projects. Are we any less democratic? I would not like to think so.

There are a number of ways to resolve the current differences of opinion without having to change the by-laws, which is a drastic step, but it will require action by the Board to resolve these issues that could divide our community.

I congratulate the group led by Tom for taking action. Now is the time for the Board to come forward as well.

In any event this shows that democracy at the grass roots is alive and well in Americana Cove, no matter what opinions you may hold on the present situation.


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

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