Special Points of InterestVolume 18, Number 5September/October 2014

Published six times annually

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See Parade, continued on page 2 See Gazebo, continued on page 2

• Balloting Limited This Year to Roll over Vote ............ page 3• Landmarks Get a Facelift .............................................. page 4• RWA to Host Newcomer’s Reception .......................... page 6• Carrying on a Community Tradition for 25 Years ....... page 6

With some of the snowbirds beginning to trickle back to Rotonda West, it is evident that the Christmas Holiday season is not too far away. Thus, Earl Haas, Chairman of the Community Relations Committee, his primary parade planning assistants, Linda Bondeson and Russ Kulp, and other committee members are shifting into high gear in preparing for this year’s Christmas Holiday Parade to be held on Saturday, December 6th (rain date Sunday the 7th). The Parade Sub-Committee recently mailed out 166 brochures which included an application to 166 past participants and other prospective organizations. The deadline for the return of the applications is November 10th. Applications can be sent by U.S. Mail, online through the Association’s website (www.rotondawest.org and click on the parade link), or hand delivered to the Association’s Office on Cape Haze Drive. The thousands of expected spectators along the 2.9-mile Rotonda West parade route will have plenty to view: military veterans units, public safety units from Fire Departments and the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office, civic and service clubs, local businesses, bands and other musical groups, school ROTC units, church groups, scout organizations, horses, clowns, and many others. As in past years, many homeowners will host large lawn parties with invited friends, neighbors, and out-of-area visitors to enjoy the parade. The 2014 Parade will have a couple changes from those in previous years. Traditionally, the Parade Committee has awarded trophies for First, Second and Third-place participants; who were chosen by three independent judges positioned on the Pebble Beach Memorial Park observation stand. This year, there will be two additional “Chairman’s Choice” trophies awarded and chosen by the judges panel. The defending champion is the Rotonda West Neighborhood Watch organization. The other change will occur just before the official start of the parade’s line of march at 2 p.m. A few minutes prior to

Parade Planners Hard At Work to Make the 2014 Christmas Parade the Best EverBy Russ Kulp

It’s a magical Christmas; join us on Saturday, December 6th.

Photos from 2013 Christmas Parade.

Gazebo Lighting Ceremony to Kick Off Holiday SeasonBy Don MahonSaturday, November 29th will mark a milestone in the annals of our community. On that evening at dusk, a power switch will be activated and the Oakland Hills Marina Island and Gazebo will come alive with thousands of Christmas lights. The event traditionally kicks off the holiday season in Rotonda West. (see accompanying article on the background of the project). For the fifth year, Earl Haas will chair the event with assistance from David Kelly. They will also coordinate the decorations of the five bridge entrances and memorial parks. Power has been wired to the bridges and for the first time, colorful lights will greet residents and visitors at the five entrances. Residents are invited to gather at the Oakland Hills marina parking area to observe the lighting ceremony. Refreshments will be served by the Rotonda West Woman’s Club and The Hills restaurant. Emcee Lee Leviton will get things started at dusk by asking the crowd to recite the “Pledge of Allegiance” and join in for the singing of the “National Anthem.” With classic Christmas music filling the air, illuminated boats will begin to appear along the Rotonda River. They will then find their way into the marina basin and circle the island. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be aboard one of the boats. Andy Van Scyoc, a member of the RWA

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Gazebo, continued from page 1

Parade, continued from page 1 Long Meadow Park Contract AwardedBy Don Mahon Hazeltine Nurseries has been selected by the RWA Board of Directors for the construction of Long Meadow Memorial Park with a bid of $52,163.66. The bid does not include the electrical and concrete work which will be bid separately. This is the fourth memorial park to be built along the Rotonda River in Rotonda West. Others are in the Pebble Beach, Broadmoor, and White Marsh subdivisions. All are situated off Rotonda Circle. Each has benches and landscaping with water views, while Old Glory flies above the grounds. They are popular destinations for joggers and bicyclists to stop and rest and for others to sit and relax as well. Hazeltine Nurseries is located on River Road in Venice and grows its own premium plant materials. It is the largest landscaping company in Florida and is rated in the top 100 landscaping companies in America by Lawn & Landscaping magazine. Work is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

that, the sports cars and classic cars of Rotonda Cruisers Club members will proceed along the route of the parade, alerting spectators that the line of march is coming. This change will also help the car owners to keep their cars on the move and prevent them from overheating. Spectators will be amazed at the number and beauty of these well-preserved vehicles. As in the past, the Parade Committee is requesting that those people viewing the parade along Rotonda Circle bring with them to donate non-perishable food items, toys, and cash that will go directly to Englewood Helping Hand, which assists many needy local families and individuals. This organization’s request for assistance has continued to grow and these parade donations play a significant role in helping the area’s needy people. There will be a couple of Parade Committee-staffed, marked golf carts proceeding along the parade route for people to deposit their donations. Anyone who cannot attend the parade but still desires to make a suitable donation to Englewood Helping Hand may drop off their donation at the Rotonda West Community Center during business hours. For those folks who cannot get to the parade but would still like to listen to what is happening, WENG radio (1530 AM, 107.5 FM) will do a live remote broadcast of the parade as they have done in previous years. Anyone having last-minute questions and/or needing information about the parade may call Earl Haas at 941-698-9207.

President’s MessageRotonda West, as we all know, is a great place to live either full or part-time. It is also a very large and diverse community, with owners not just from the USA and Canada but from all around the world. Rotonda West Association business is conducted by an elected seven member Board of Directors who set the policies and procedures of the organization. They control the finances and make all the decisions that govern the way in which the Association operates. The day to day management of the Association is the responsibility of the Association’s manager and his staff. Beyond that however, are a large number of volunteers who give their valuable time and energies to work on the association’s committees, advising the Board of Directors on a wide and varied number of subjects, such as:

Budget and Finance Residential ModificationsAquatics PropertyDeed Restrictions Mowing and BeautificationCommunity Relations Compliance Policy & Procedures

The volunteers who sit on these committees take their responsibilities very seriously and give the Board of

Directors the benefit of their collective experience on the matters that they are interested in. Some of the members of the Association just sit on one Committee or a Sub Committee such as the Broadmoor Park Advisory, Parade, or the Christmas Decorations committee; some participate in several committees. The Board members are thankful for every one of those volunteers who help us steer and improve the community in which we are proud to live in. Unfortunately, every year, we lose a number of volunteers for various reasons. And yes, we do get one or two new members who join us to fill some of the gaps left on those committees. I would, however, like to ask all members out there, whether you have just moved into our community, or have been a resident for a number of years, to consider joining our dedicated band of volunteers to help the Association and community improve and move forward. If you are interested in any of the Association’s various committees and would like to give some of your time and experience to the Association, please contact the Administration office so that your name and contact details can be passed onto the appropriate Committee chair. I look forward to seeing some new members at the meetings.

Glynn Perkins, President

Board, will chair the boat parade. You can contact Andy at 239-940-2584. As reported elsewhere in this issue, Earle and the late Alyn Simpson started the lighting project 25 years ago and have managed it for 10 years. Harry Senger followed Simpson and also took charge for 10 years. Earl Haas then picked up the reins in 2009.

Don’t miss it!! See you there!

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Inside the CircleBits ‘n pieces from around the community

Baseball Phenomena - A small core of sports fans hold the distinction of visiting every major league baseball park in America in their lifetimes. Two Rotonda West sisters - Hilda Dillman and Mary Lou Saltzman - are originally from the Baltimore area and have been lifetime baseball fans. On a recent vacation, they traveled up the East Coast and stopped along the way to watch minor league baseball games. First, were the Charleston, SC Riverdogs and then the Greensboro, NC Grasshoppers, followed by the Norfolk, VA Tides and finally, the Delmarva, MD Shorebirds. If the season hadn’t ended, the list would have been longer. They have been to minor league baseball games in Portland, Oregon and Portland, Maine, not to mention the Charlotte Sports Park for many Stone Crabs games. Both Hilda and Mary Lou are devoted Neighborhood Watch volunteers, and, not surprisingly, are huge Baltimore Orioles fans. This has been the O’s year!! Sidewalks on Blvd. West - Bids are due on November 5th for construction of 1.4 miles of a sidewalk and bike path along Rotonda Boulevard West from Parade Circle to Rotonda Circle. Design and permitting have been completed. Construction is scheduled for completion in the spring of 2015. Estimated construction budget is $725,000. Similar work on Rotonda Boulevard North and Rotonda Boulevard East has been completed. Web Bits.... Our website, www.rotondawest.org - had 3,427 visits in the month of September. Most views were for West Ways and Deed Restrictions. Top countries visiting the site after the U.S. were China, Great Britain, Ukraine, and the Russian Federation. Alert.... The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office has reported an increase of appliance thefts from homes for sale. Residents are encouraged to keep an eye on unoccupied homes for sale and report any suspicious activity to the CCSO non-emergency number, 941-639-0013.

Susie Doyans Is Truly an Inspiration to AllBy Don MahonSusie Doyans is a champion golfer with Florida’s Special Olympics and is mastering the new craze, stand-up paddle-boarding. We featured Susie in our last issue. She is an accomplished athlete who does not let Down syndrome get in her way and has been maintaining a busy schedule. Take the month of September for example: At the Charlotte County Inaugural Golf Scramble on September 13th, Susie won closest to the pin, landing 8 feet from the cup and she birdied the hole. Her mother, Lynda, organized this event and they raised $4,500 for Special Olympics. The next morning in Cocoa Beach, Susie entered a stand-up paddle-boarding competition and finished with a highly-respectable second. A week earlier, she defended her title in the State of Florida’s Special Olympics Golf Finals. She played 18 holes in two days each and finished second. She was beaten by one stroke by a boy she had played against for the last three years and had won the first two events. Susie’s inspiring story was featured in the January 2013 issue of Golf Digest magazine. The headline read, “Competing Is The Most Fun Thing I Do.” Also, several Special Olympics websites are devoted to her golf exploits. She has given over 300 speeches as a Special Olympics Global Messenger to spread the word about the cause. Great job all around, Susie!! According to Susie’s Mom, Lynda, “Special Olympics has had the most influence on Susie’s life and we want to share that joy with everyone.” Susie lives with her parents, Dan and Lynda, in the Broadmoor subdivision.

Balloting Limited This Year to Roll over VoteBy Don MahonAs reported in our last issue, two candidates filed paperwork in August for two open seats on the RWA Board of Directors for 2015. Thus, the election this year will be waived and David Kelly and Scott Schermerhorn will serve 3-year terms. Both are incumbent Board members, having been elected in 2011. With no election competition, the traditional Candidates Night was not scheduled this year. Property owners have received a mailing with a ballot to vote on carrying over excess funds for the 2015 operating

Susie on her favorite place to be, hitting a golf ball.

budget and reserve expenditures. Also included in the mailing is a letter from RWA President, Glynn Perkins, commenting on the state of the Association and major projects that are completed or underway in 2014. Ballots will be returned to the RWA’s accounting firm – “Webb, Lorah & Company, P.L.”, of Punta Gorda for tabulating. Results will be announced at the Annual Meeting on December 4th. The election process is coordinated by the RWA Election Committee and is chaired by Barbara Peszko. Geoff Lorah of “Webb, Lorah & Company, P.L.” serves as an adviser. Officers and committee chairmen for 2015 will be named at a meeting of the new Board shortly after the Annual Meeting.

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From the ManagerJay Lyons, ManagerRotonda West AssociationOver the past 10 months the Compliance Committee has considered 121 Deed Restrictions violations for fining. The number one violation, with 71 cases considered, is the failure of owners to either store their trash containers in the garage or site screen their trash cans with fencing or landscaping. The Deed Restriction pertaining to this issue states in Section 18. Trash – Garbage – Outside Equipment: “Except on the day immediately preceding the day of collection and the day of collection, trash containers shall be kept either inside the garage or within a site-screened area. Bottle gas tanks, swimming pool equipment, sprinkler pumps, generators and other such outdoor equipment, excluding air conditioning units and pool heaters, shall be placed in a site-screened area so that they shall not be Readily Visible.”

The term trash containers refer to all trash containers including recyclables and yard trash barrels. The definition of “Readily Visible”, as it pertains to the Deed Restriction states “With respect to any object, said object is visible from the street to a reasonably sized person (6’) standing at the finished floor elevation or finished grade of the street.” Additionally, over the next few months we will be concentrating on the site screening of outdoor equipment. Therefore, if your outdoor equipment, pool equipment, irrigation pumps, generators, etc. are visible from the street, you will receive a violation letter stating you have 14 days to correct the violation.

Please make sure you understand the Residential Modification Guidelines for site screening and complete a Residential Modification application before you erect a new site screen or expand an existing site screen. If you have any questions, please call Dianne Brophy, Deed Restriction Secretary, at 941-697-1780.

Summary of Board of Directors’ Meeting MinutesSpecial MeetingFriday June 13, 2014Directors Present: Glynn Perkins (Chairman), Hank Killion, Russ Kulp, Andy VanScyoc, David Kelly, and Peter TraversoDirector Absent: Scott SchermerhornManagement Staff Present: Jay Lyons, Manager, and Dianne Brophy, TranscriberThis special meeting was called to discuss and, as appropriate, approve Wind Insurance and Directors’ and Officers’ Liability Insurance. The Directors reviewed the renewal proposal from the Key Agency. The policy is the same as last year’s; however, the cost has increased by $1,043.39 because some members had made six (6) challenges during the past three years. The policy had to be renewed prior to June 18, 2014. Director Traverso moved that the Board of Directors renew the Directors’ and Officers’ Liability Insurance. Director Killion seconded the motion; and, after further discussion on certain sections of the policy, the motion was passed unanimously.Next, the Directors turned their attention to the Wind Insurance and the information provided by the Key Agency. That information included costs for 2013 and 2014 and deductible percentages, which included deductibles for “All Other Perils” and equipment breakdowns. The Board discussed these options extensively, including an assessment of the state of the Community Center, Broadmoor Park buildings and the fiduciary responsibility of the Board. Although the Board felt it would be better to have renewed the Wind Insurance Policy out of hurricane season, the renewal had to be approved and paid that day, June 13, 2014.Director Traverso moved that the Board of Directors adopt the Wind Insurance policy with the 15% deductible and “All Other Perils” deductible of $5,000.00 for a total cost of $10,353.02. Director Kelly seconded the motion; and it passed unanimously. Chairman Perkins then commented that more information is needed from the Key Agency on what “All Other Perils” actually covers and what the Limit of Liability is for Agreement Sections “A” through “D”.

Summary of Board of Directors’ Meeting MinutesRegular MeetingWednesday, June 18, 2014Directors Present: Glynn Perkins (Chairman), Hank Killion, Scott Schermerhorn, Russ Kulp, Andy VanScyoc and Peter TraversoDirector Absent: David KellyManagement Staff Present: Jay Lyons, Manager, and Dianne Brophy, TranscriberAs part of the Manager’s Report, Jay Lyons reported that the Association’s collection agency has sent 196 letters to members who have not paid their 2014 dues. To date, 33 members have responded by paying their dues and additional letters will be sent to those who still have not paid. He also reported that the Beautification Committee reviewed 3 conceptual plans for the Long Meadow Memorial Park and that R & B Associates, having received all the necessary permits for repairs to the gazebo, its grounds and the bridge, has begun work. As of this date, 274 vacant lot owners have been notified of the removal of non-native invasive vegetation on their lots with 229 lots already having been ground (the RWA has paid for 25 of these clearings. Liens will be placed on the properties of those not paying.As part of the Aquatic/Canal Committee Report, Committee Board Liaison Glynn Perkins reported that the Committee has updated the 5-Year Plan and copies are available for review in the Association’s office. Director Killion also reported that the grass carp barriers are in place and approval to proceed has been received from Florida Fish & Wildlife.As part of the Beautification Committee Report, Chairman Perkins stated that the Committee reviewed three conceptual design options for Long Meadow Memorial Park from Jeff Nagel, Landscape Architect, of Johnson Engineering and has chosen Option (B) with a proposed cost estimate of

Landmarks Get a FaceliftBy Don MahonWith apparently no official record, old timers tell us that the gazebo and bridge to the island in the Oakland Hills Marina were built some 40 years ago. The sun, heat, and wet seasonal weather in Southwest Florida are bound to have an effect on the wood finishes. Both structures were becoming in need of repairs. Recognizing the need to preserve these community landmarks, the RWA Board voted to do something about it several months ago. A contractor has just finished repairs and the gazebo and bridge are looking spiffy. Every year at the holiday season, the island comes alive with thousands of lights and decorations. The island has also been the scene of weddings and small parties through the years. It’s also just a pleasant setting to relax, read a book, or watch the fish jump and the gators float by. If you’re in the area, take a look. You’ll be impressed with the peaceful setting and the quality work. Continued on Page 5

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Summary of Board of Directors’ Meeting MinutesRegular MeetingWednesday, July 16, 2014Directors Present: Glynn Perkins (Chairman), Hank Killion, Scott Schermerhorn, Russ Kulp, David Kelly, and Peter TraversoDirector Absent: Andy VanScyocManagement Staff Present: Jay Lyons, Manager, and Dianne Brophy, TranscriberThe meeting opened with Charlotte County Commissioner Truex addressing the Board and audience. Commissioner Truex spoke about the new building permits in the West County area where South Gulf Cove and Rotonda had the most. He also gave an update of several significant projects underway and some that had already been completed successfully.As part of the Treasurer’s Report, Director Killion moved that the Board of Directors approve the write-off of $544.50 for a bankruptcy/foreclosure for property at 239 White Marsh Lane. Director Kulp seconded the motion; and, it passed unanimously.As part of the Election Committee Report, Chairperson Barbara Peszko stated that the Committee has approved the revised election procedures and guidelines which are now before the Board for final approval and that the deadline for candidates to declare and qualify to be on the ballot is 12 noon on August 8th. Director Traverso moved that the Board of Directors approve the By-Law changes as provided to the Board. Director Kulp seconded the motion. The motion was passed unanimously. Also, Director Traverso moved that the Board of Directors approve the revised and finalized Election Procedures and Guideline documents as reviewed by the Association attorney. Director Kulp seconded the motion; and, it passed unanimously.As part of the Aquatic/Canal Committee Report, Director Killion reported that the Committee met and reviewed the bids for the Canal Maintenance Contract, which now included the areas in Broadmoor Park. Director Killion moved that the Board of Directors accept the bid of FloridAquatics for canal maintenance for $315,000.00. Director Kulp seconded the motion; and, it passed unanimously. Director Killion also stated that the grass carp barriers have been installed and the West Charlotte County Stormwater MSBU will pay for the carp.As part of the Budget/Finance Committee Report, Director Killion moved that the Board of Directors change the date of receipt of assessments to the postmark date versus the received date. Director Kulp seconded the motion. The Board then discussed the issues involved with such a change. The motion failed to pass with Directors Kulp, Perkins, Schermerhorn and Traverso voting in the negative.As part of the Compliance Committee Report, Chairperson Barbara Peszko stated the Committee was recommending 17 violations for fining to the Board. The violation addresses are: 20 Annapolis Lane, 48 Annapolis Lane, 73 Annapolis Lane, 144 Annapolis Lane, 236 Annapolis Lane, 38 Caddy Road, 13 Bunker Lane, 10 Bunker Place, 72 Pinehurst Place, 431 Rotonda Circle, and 280 Rotonda Boulevard East. The violations were for trash can visible. Violations at 27 Bunker Circle and 10 Bunker Place are for high grass and weeds. Nuisance violations are for 280 Rotonda Boulevard East, 78 Rotonda Circle, and 197 Boundary Boulevard. 985 Rotonda Circle has a violation for no RMC approval. Director Perkins moved that the Board of Directors approve and apply the fining recommended by the Compliance Committee. Director Traverso seconded the motion; and, it passed unanimously.As part of the Deed Restrictions Committee Report, Director Perkins moved that the Board of Directors approve sending the Proposed Deed Restrictions changes to the Developer for approval. Director Killion seconded the motion. The motion passed with Director Kelly abstaining.As part of the Policy & Procedures Committee, Director Perkins moved that Board of Directors accept the resignation of Mark Reynolds from the Policy & Procedures Committee. Director Killion seconded the motion. It passed unanimously.

$41,500.00. More detail in selection of bushes, trees and flowers, etc. could bring the cost to be between $50,000 and $55,000. Director Perkins moved that the Board of Directors move forward on the Option (B) Plan and for which the project is budgeted. Director VanScyoc seconded the motion. Chairman Perkins stated that once the plan is approved, the project can proceed with the final landscaping design items and then can go out to bid.Then John Peszko, Chairman of the Rotonda West MSBU, reported that the dog waste bags with receptacles have been installed along the Parade Circle bike path the lighting of the bridges has begun and construction of the new entry signs has also started.As part of the Budget/Finance Committee Report, Director Killion moved that the Board of Directors approve increasing the Estoppel Fee to $75.00 and the Transfer Fee to $75.00, both increases to be initiated on August 1, 2014. Director Kulp seconded the motion. It was clarified that the buyer pays the Transfer Fee and the seller pays the Estoppel Fee. The motion passed unanimously. Director Killion also announced that the Committee has accepted the resignation of Lois Burger with regrets.As part of the Community Relations Committee Report, Earl Haas (Chairman) stated that preparations were under way for the Christmas parade on Saturday, December 6th and the Boat Parade and Gazebo Lighting to take place on Saturday, November 29th. There followed discussion about writing a piece for the Englewood Sun as the Association had been invited to do by the newspaper. Director Perkins moved to have the Board of Directors approve the submission of the article authored by Don Mahon to the Englewood Sun newspaper. Director Kulp seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.As part of the Compliance Committee Report, Richard Duggan (Chairman) reported that there were 14 recommendations for fining for various violations (most for trash cans visble) approved by the Committee. Director Perkins moved that the Board of Directors approve the fining of the 14 properties recommended by the Compliance Committee. Director VanScyoc seconded the motion. Those properties are: 97 Annapolis Lane, 100 Caddy Road, 207 Caddy Road, 67 Golfview Road, 11 Oakland Hills Court, 30 Oakland Hills Court, 37 Oakland Hills Court, 45 Rotonda Circle, 78 Rotonda Circle, 140 Rotonda Circle, 152 Rotonda Circle, 541 Boundary Blvd., 2 Clubhouse Road, and 212 Mariner Lane. Manager Lyons requested the Board to delay the fining until 4 p.m. because the owners have indicated they would comply by that time. Director Killion moved to amend his motion so as to read: Director Killion moved the Board of Directors approve the fining of the 14 properties recommended by the Compliance Committee and postpone the fining on the properties at 207 Rotonda Circle for the TCV (Trash Can Visible) and 541 Rotonda Circle for no RMC for painting the driveway until 4 p.m. today to be able to come into compliance. The motion passed with Directors Perkins and Schermerhorn voting in the negative.As part of the Residential Modification Committee Report, Director Traverso moved that the Board of Directors approve the proposed Residential Modification Guidelines dated June 2014. Director VanScyoc seconded the motion; and, it passed unanimously. Director Perkins also stated that these guidelines should be sent to the Association’s attorney in order to have them dovetail with the new Deed Restrictions.Under “New Business and Communications”, Director Traverso moved that the Board of Directors declassify the 6-18-14 attorney review of the Election Documents. Director Kulp seconded the motion. This will allow the Election Committee to complete its preparations for the annual election. The motion passed unanimously.Under “Director’s Input”, Director VanScyoc expressed concern for the approved increase in the speed limit from 30 to 35 mph as a potential safety issue. Then, Director VanScyoc moved that the Board of Directors (officially as an Association) make a request to the County Commissioners to revisit/repeal the speed limit increase on Rotonda Circle in the interest of the safety of your residents. Director Traverso seconded the motion, and there was much discussion on the subject with Manager Lyons suggesting that a Town Hall meeting would be the more appropriate forum for this issue. The motion failed with Directors Killion, Kulp, Perkins and Schermerhorn voting in the negative.

Summary, Continued from Page 4

Continued on Page 6

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RWA to Host Newcomer’s ReceptionBy Don MahonThe 12th Newcomer’s Reception will be held starting at 7 p.m. on Thursday, November 20th at the Community Center. New residents will receive invitations and all other residents are welcome to attend. These events are always well-attended. Attendees will learn about services available in our community, as well as the inner working of the Rotonda West Association. Expected to have a display table and representatives on hand are Neighborhood Watch, the Rotonda West Woman’s Club, Friends and Neighbors, Fiesta Association, members of the Board and committees of the RWA, and others. Refreshments will be available. Jack Alexander, author of Rotonda: The Vision and the Reality, will have copies of his books available for sale for $6.00 and has offered to do a book signing. The book traces the history of our community. The Newcomer’s Reception is a project of the RWA’s Community Relations Committee, chaired by Earl Haas.

Carrying on a Community Tradition for 25 YearsBy Don MahonNote: For this interview, we met with Earle Simpson in a serene setting at the recently refurbished Gazebo at the Oakland Hills Marina as two gators bobbed around in the nearby Marina basin).

The traditional holiday lighting project at the Oakland Hills Marina will mark its 25th anniversary this upcoming holiday season. It all started in 1989. At the time, Earle Simpson was heavily involved with the Rotonda West Property Owners Association that evolved two years later as the Rotonda West Association. As the holiday season approached, he and his wife, Alyn, got the idea to decorate the gazebo, island, and bridge in the Oakland Hills Marina. They were able to round up $400 split between the POA and Cape Haze Corporation, the developer. They purchased 100 sets of lights for a total of 10,000 colorful light bulbs. “For the first year, we bought the biggest Christmas tree we could find and put it on top of the gazebo,” Earle said. “That didn’t work too well as the gazebo had a slanted roof and dry rot was setting in, even then,” he added. “We liked to do the decorating by ourselves to avoid people stepping all over each other.” For the next 10 years, Earle and Alyn would show up faithfully at the marina with their strings of lights and would do the decorating.

Rotonda residents getting to know about the community. Photo by Sue Killion.

Earl Simpson on the island at the Oakland Hills Marina with the gazebo in the background. Photo by Sue Killion.

As part of the Properties Committee Report, Chairman David Kelly reported on the status of the implementation of the first and second steps brought forth from the Broadmoor Park survey which were the walking/jogging and bike paths. He also reported that the repairs to the gazebo and island bridge had uncovered additional necessary work which resulted in the project being slightly over budget. The approved microwave has been installed in the Community Center’s kitchen. There was significant discussion on the amount of money in the Reserve Budget for Rotonda West properties; and, Director Killion stated that the Reserve Budget has not been fully funded to the target of $140.000.00. Director Perkins moved that the Board of Directors reverse the policy that the Association maintain all costs for the Gazebo Island and that the funds which were put aside for it go to other projects the Association may wish to do. Director Schermerhorn seconded the motion. After further discussion, the motion passed unanimously.As part of the Residential Modification Committee, Director Traverso moved that the Board of Directors approve the revised Residential Modification Committee Guidelines as approved by the Association attorney. Director Kulp seconded the motion. It passed unanimously.Under “New Business and Communications”, and after discussion about the proposal options received for flood and building contents insurance, Director Schermerhorn moved that the Board of Directors accept the increased Flood Insurance Option #3 as provided by the Key Agency allowing the building to be insured for $377,600.00 and the contents for $100,000.00. Director Perkins seconded the motion; and, it passed unanimously.The Board also discussed the process for the Association foreclosing on Rotonda West properties that have not paid Association dues and fees and also have their taxes paid and have no mortgages. Director Killion moved to have the Manager initiate actions to foreclose on properties for which he feels we can receive monies owed to the Association and have the Manager work with the Big W law firm. Director Kulp seconded the motion. It passed unanimously.

As Earle and I sat at the peaceful gazebo, he pointed out where the lights were strung. “That tree over there was real small then but we hung lights on it and others,” he explained. Earle and Alyn didn’t limit their community service to just the decorations project. He served as a director of the POA and the RWA for 10 years each and was Chairman of the Aquatics Committee for several years. He was Alcalde (President) of the Fiesta Association, our community’s premier social club. In 3 years, memberships increased from 90 to 240. He also served as a patrol for Neighborhood Watch for 20 years. Alyn was President of the Rotonda Woman’s Golf Club, she drove for Englewood’s Meals on Wheels for 15 years, and she was a member of other community organizations. Sadly, she has since passed away. Earle is a native of Houlton, Maine and he earned an Electronics Engineering degree from the University of Maine. He worked for AT&T and received top recognition for his work. Thanks, Earle, for your exemplary service to our community!!

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Summary, Continued from Page 5

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Buckeyes Recognize John and Jo Ann HouseBy Don MahonThe Buckeye Club is a pro-active social organization with its membership composed of former Ohio residents. The club was founded 9 years ago by Sue Artz and Bev Webster as the Rotonda West Buckeye Club, and is now open to Ohioans in the area. Many members are Ohio State University graduates. They can be found cheering on the Ohio State football team as a group on a Saturday afternoon in the fall. Fifty-three of the club’s members reside in Rotonda West with another 107 associate members from surrounding communities. One of the club’s on-going programs is to select recipients annually for its “Buckeye Job Well Done” award for significant contributions to the betterment of the community. “This year’s recipients are John and Jo Ann House, who are most deserving of the award, and the first couple honored,” said Jim Laurent, Club Program Director. John served ably for five years as President of Rotonda West Neighborhood Watch from 2008 to 2013. He is also

Rotonda West Woman’s Club 2014-15 Activities UnderwayBy Russ KulpThe saying “A woman’s work is never done” is truly exemplified by the GFWC (Greater Federation of Woman’s Clubs) Rotonda West Woman’s Club. Under the leadership of President Laura Wine, the club has been hard at work throughout the summer preparing for another busy and charitable year. Club members who have remained here as the snowbirds traveled northward during the spring have been planning, as well as creating, many items that will be utilized for their fundraising events. As this edition of West Ways is being published and made available to its readers, the GFWC Rotonda West Woman’s Club will have held its first major fundraiser of this club year: the 16th Annual Arts ‘N’ Apples Fare on Saturday, November 1st at the Tringali Center in Englewood. This event has been hugely successful in raising money for the many needy and very worthwhile local social agencies that the club helps support. Featured were hand-crafted arts, both seasonal and general, opportunity drawings, raffles, and other giveaways. The club’s Signature Santas for the 2014 holiday season were a Kitchen Santa and a lampshade Santa. New additions at this year’s affair were club members’ hand-painted pictures, sculptures, needle arts, and paper arts. It is easy to understand why the club’s room at the Community Center was a buzz all summer. To top things off, a visit from Santa to hear some early requests from the children was anticipated. Another feature of the Arts ‘N’ Apples Fare was lunch at the Apple Blossom Café, plus delicious desserts at Auntie Bea’s Bakery. Desserts included the club’s famous “Buy an Apple Pie for Your Favorite

Jim Laurent is flanked by Jo Ann and John House, winners of the Buckeye Award.

Guy”- homemade apple pies as well as “Cookies by the Pound,” and many other yummy delights. If you missed Arts ‘N’ Apples, then you surely do not want to miss the GFWC Rotonda West Woman’s Club’s significant holiday season event, the 2014 Holiday Tea Party. This year’s Tea Party, to be held on Saturday, December 13th, will benefit two outstanding and deserving groups: Canine Companions and Project Phoenix, an organization which serves the needs of displaced families and individuals in this local area. Tickets, which are an $18.00 donation, usually go quickly; so, if you are interested in attending, please don’t delay and call one of the numbers listed below to get tickets. No tickets will be sold at the door. All proceeds after expenses go directly to the beneficiaries.

Here are the details you need to know:Date: Saturday, December 13th, 2014Place: Community Presbyterian Church405 South McCall RoadEnglewood, FL 34223Time: 1:00 P.MFor Tickets: Call 941-697-5303 or 419-438-2220

****DOOR PRIZES, ENTERTAINMENT,GOOD FOOD, DRAWINGS, AND MORE****

The GFWC Rotonda West Woman’s Club asks you to bring your spirit of charity and help them celebrate the holiday season!

The club’s officers and members will be hosting other events throughout the 2015 season and these will be covered in upcoming West Ways issues. In addition to President Laura Wine, the new slate of officers for 2014-2016 include: First Vice President Susan Todd; Second Vice President Connie Friess; Recording Secretary Maryanne Carrico; Corresponding Secretary Marsha Budday; Treasurer Patricia Johnson; and Assistant Treasurer Pennie Rasmussen.

an active member of the RWA Aquatics & Canal Banks committee. He collects water samples once a month from our canals for analysis by the University of Florida’s Lakewatch Program. He also arranges an evening seminar each year and invites Lakewatch principles to give presentations at the Community Center. Both John and Jo Ann are Ohio State University graduates and have been involved with the leadership of the Fiesta Association, the community’s premier social club. Jo Ann is also a member of the Rotonda West Woman’s Club. The Houses received the award at a breakfast meeting for the club at the Country Hound Cafe. For information on the Buckeye Club, contact Jim Laurent at 698-4250.

-8-BULK MAILINGU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDPLACIDA, FL

33947PERMIT NO. 38

Rotonda West Association, Inc.3754 Cape Haze DriveRotonda West, FL 33947

ECRWSSPOSTAL CUSTOMER

ROTONDA WEST FL 33947

Mission StatementThe role of Rotonda West Association, Inc. is multi-faceted: To protect the property interests of the members; to enhance living in the community; to plan for the future in its role as a community association. (Approved November 13, 2002)

Rotonda West Association3754 Cape Haze DriveRotonda West, FL 33947Phone 941-697-6788Fax 941-697-0788Deed Restrictions 941-697-1780Email info@rotondawest.orgEditor westways@rotondawest.orgWeb www.rotondawest.org

Rotonda West Association, Inc.Board of DirectorsGlynn Perkins, PresidentHank Killion, 1st Vice President, TreasurerScott Schermerhorn, 2nd Vice President, SecretaryDavid Kelly, DirectorAndy Van Scyoc, DirectorRussell Kulp, DirectorPeter Traverso, DirectorOffice StaffJay Lyons, ManagerNorene Kugler, Assistant ManagerDianne Brophy, Deed RestrictionsMerle Fulton, AccountingClaudette Romano, AdministratorWest Ways StaffChristine Lee, EditorRuss Kulp, Writer Don Mahon, Writer Sue Killion, Photographer David Pulaski, Photographer Julie Gaustad-Ruhr, Layout

• Board of Directors3rd Wednesday @ 2 p.m.

• Aquatics Committee4th Wednesday @ 2 p.m.

• Beautification1st Thursday @ 3 p.m.

• Budget & Finance3rd Tuesday @ 2 p.m.

• Community Relations1st Wednesday @ 2:00 p.m.

• Compliance3rd Monday @ 10:00 a.m.

• Deed Restrictions1st Monday @ 2 p.m.

• Election3rd Thursday @ 2 p.m.

• Properties4th Monday @ 10 a.m.

• Residential Modification2nd & 4th Monday @ 2 p.m.

IMPORTANT DATESAll committee meetings are open to RWA members and meet monthly on the days listed at the RWA Community Center.

The historic gazebo is pictured after repairs. See story on page 6. Photo by Sue Killion.