May 2016 - mcoa.us
Transcription
May 2016 - mcoa.us
Published for and distributed free to the Marsh Creek Community since 2001 April/May 2016 VOL. 15, NO. 6 Sweet April Showers, Spring Forth May Flowers Fishing in the lakes Well, Boys and Girls, lots of good stuff to report. Although we have had some rough patches with our mailbox suppliers (posts and mailboxes themselves), it appears we have made the turn. The problems were caused essentially by the fact that they had not had such John Hutson large bulk orders in the past, but I think they have pretty much caught up now. Approximately half of our homes now have or will soon have new mailboxes. We made a second run through the community to recheck the compliance status of the old mailboxes. I’m glad to report many have been repaired and now are in compliance. Those that are not will receive a second letter. The new signage throughout Marsh Creek is moving ahead and has been well received. The people working on painting the signs are also involved with installing new mailboxes so they have been awfully busy. Painting has gone a little faster because of the slow up in mailbox delivery. Question: How many signs are there in Marsh Creek? Answer: A lot! Probably in October or so, we will resurface our roads. We are going to use a process called micropaving. We used the same process and the same contractor last time we resurfaced and it has outlasted its advertised life expectancy. But the time has come. You will hear much more about this later as the time draws nigh. It will be inconvenient to be sure, but only for a few weeks in total and only for a few hours in each location. This company does this work in scores of communities like ours and they are pros at notification of affected homeowners, flag people directing traffic, and so forth. I’m also pleased to report that in these early days and weeks, the relationship and cooperation between the MCOA and the new ownership and management of the Country Club couldn’t be better. We communicate well and often. Since I am President of the Board of Directors of the former and the Chair of the Board of Advisors of the latter, I find myself talking to myself more frequently than ever these days. That’s normal, right? Tom Carter, who is the new GM, is a great guy with a ton of experience as a GM in various other ClubCorp locations. A few changes have occurred already including new bar and food menus and a reduced price structure for full members. Many more improvements are in the works including a complete remodel of the clubhouse and fitness center. ClubCorp is a $1B+ publically traded company with many, many facilities all over the country. Over the last decade they have reinvested over $50M per year into their clubs. Because it has so much corporate experience to draw from and financial support, it is able to do and try things that we haven’t seen before. Tom clearly understands and supports the symbiotic relationship between our community and the Club. It is all pretty exciting. At least that is what I tell myself when I have those private, meaningful, person-to-person conversations with myself. That’s all, Folks. Have a great spring. Next to automobiles speeding in the community, the biggest complaint we receive on the committee is sightings of juveniles fishing in the lakes. In the month of February there were a total of nine different sightings as reported by six different residents. All told there were sightings of 23 juveniles seen fishing in five different lakes. The lakes were the two to the west of Marshside Drive North that are along the 13th and 14th fairway, the one with the fountain Rick Johnson on Marshside Drive and the two off Spring Lake Ct in Wandering Lakes. Marsh Creek Declaration of covenants, conditions, restrictions, and easements strictly prohibits anyone from fishing in the lakes. Previous reports indicated that most of these juveniles were not residents and were trespassing by coming in from the Commodores Club and Sea Grove subdivisions. Residents reported seeing these juveniles cutting through their back yards near the north gate and were seen entering from Sea Grove along the 11th fairway. Contact had been made in the past with the HOA’s of the Commodores Club and Sea Grove in an attempt to calm this trespassing issue. Residents and employees of the pro shop have confronted these teens in the past and yet the problem has continued. The committee looked at this as a security and safety issue and not as an economic one. Even though the lakes are stocked at the expense of the HOA none of the teens appeared to keep the fish but to catch and release them. However, a few years ago the pump on the lake fountain became clogged with cut fishing lines and the cost to repair exceeding $1000. The committee contacted Deputy Melissa Swindull of the Community Affairs Division, St Johns County Sheriff’s Office, to get her opinion and advice on how to handle this trespassing issue. Deputy Swindull’s duties include lassoing with all the HOA’s in St Johns County. She and the District Commander and the Commander for the Southeast District attended one of our security meetings. All were Continued on page 3 Read the online version of the Marsh Creek News Journal at www.staugustine.com/marshcreek MAY 2016 • The Marsh Creek News Journal • http://staugustine.com/marshcreek 2 The Secret Garden By Phil Tutschek and Cindy Pilkington Photos by Cindy Pilkington The Secret Garden Committee has come out of hibernation to see what is new and exciting concerning Marsh Creek landscapes. This year, our regular members, Marie Duncklee, Peggy Gachet, Cindy Pilkington and I have been joined by Maddie Cotter and Nancy Marikos. (I know, a thorn among roses.) What we discovered was a beautiful new landscape surrounding an existing home which transferred ownership in January, 2015. Don and Karen Pierce moved into 536 Turnberry Lane after living in a patio home since 2008. They owned an interior decorating business in Tucson, Arizona for twenty-five years. Their design involvement often included the exterior landscape as well, and this has given them extensive experience with which to design their own yard. Karen added that they had also spent time in Canada and it was there that they learned to deal with deer problems. Once in their patio home, they used “trial and error” to decide what worked best in our community. As can be seen from the accompanying pictures, the flowers, bushes and distinctive palms that have been planted in their front, side and rear pool and patio areas give wonderful color and balance to their yard. Take a ride up to the circle on Turnberry and enjoy the lovely setting. Above, the view from cart path shows numerous wellgroomed beds with color that can be viewed Peggy Gachet presented the award to Don & Karen Pierce The right and front area contains Crotons, Bird of Paradise, Variegated Ginger, Periwinkles, Pentas, and Plumbago Beyond the reach of the deer in their fenced back pool area, a plethora of colorful plants: including Hibiscus, Agapanthus, Snapdragons, Marigolds, Iris, Petunias, and a beautifully sculptured Ligustrum can be seen The left bed, contains variegated ginger, society garlic, Bird of Paradise, Colorama Dracaena, Croton, Lilies, Queen Palm, Robelini Palm, and Firecracker Plant. Thank you for all the clubs, bags, balls and other golf items that were donated to the First Tee of North Florida. This letter was received conveying their thanks to all who donated so generously. April 6, 2016 The First Tee of North Florida 475 W Town Pl, Suite 115 St. Augustine, FL 32092 Continued from page 1 Suzanne Beck Marsh Creek Country Club Attn: Suzanne Beck 169 Marshside Dr., St. Augustine, FL 32080 Dear Marsh Creek Country Club Members, Thank you for your equipment donation to The First Tee of North Florida. As a result of your generosity and others, we will be able to impact over 1,000 juniors throughout North Florida by offering after school programs, summer camps, tournaments, and our golf and life skills experience. Your donation has helped to make it possible for us to introduce them to the game of golf and the positively inherent values associated with this great game. We appreciate your thoughtfulness, and on behalf of the many new, young golfers we will be bringing to the game, thank you again. Sincerely, Boots Farley Executive Director The First Tee of North Florida [email protected] knowledgeable about similar problems in other gated communities. Their experience dictated that personal confrontation should be avoided because of the possibility of personal injury. The commander for the southeast district said the best way to handle this problem was to call the nonemergency number for the Sheriff’s Office at 904-824-8304. He assured the committee they will respond immediately if anyone is seen fishing in the lakes. On February 29th, this advice was followed and the Sheriff’s office caught two older teens from the Sea Grove subdivision fishing in the lake along the 13th fairway. They told the police they entered by jumping the fence along the common border of Sea Grove and Marsh Creek on the 11th fairway. Once in Marsh Creek they followed the golf cart paths to the lakes. The teens found out about fishing in the lakes through social media. They had posted pictures of fish caught in the lakes themselves and both knew it was wrong to be fishing in the lakes. The teens were cited for trespassing and were told if they were caught fishing in the lakes again they would be arrested. The number of sightings has decreased since then and we are hopeful the teens that were caught put their experience on social media. The committee feels that contacting the Sheriff’s office at the non-emergency number is the best policy to reduce the number of juveniles trespassing and fishing in the lakes. If you call the Sheriff’s office please be as specific as possible about the location of the individuals that are fishing. Also, call security 461-1104, main gate, or 4611742, north gate, and notify them that you have contacted the police. They can give directions to the police when they enter. Security cannot respond to these calls as they are maintaining access control at the gates. MAY 2016 • The Marsh Creek News Journal • http://staugustine.com/marshcreek Fishing in the lakes EDITORS NOTE: 3 MAY 2016 • The Marsh Creek News Journal • http://staugustine.com/marshcreek 4 By Camille Kay As we all have noticed, quite a few new residents are joining us in Marsh Creek! Do you know that we have a reverse (address to name) directory on our mcoa.us website? Just log-in, go to address book and scroll down to the bottom of the page to “click here to list by street name”. You will find the name and phone numbers of your new neighbors. Enjoy meeting them….. Please welcome Judi and Bob Knowlton, your new neighbors at 125 Heron’s Nest Lane. An additional family member joining Judi and Bob in their move is their beloved dog, Henry. Henry has already “introduced” the Knowltons to many other dogs and dog owners on their nearby streets. Judi and Bob come to us from Massachusetts, where Bob worked as a researcher at MIT. Although they will live here for most of the year, they plan on spending summers in their Massachusetts cottage. The Knowltons have been coming to Saint Augustine for over ten years as the oldest of their three daughters lives in this area. Currently remodeling their new home is their top priority, but once they are ready to relax, they can pursue their hobbies of traveling and photography. Bob and Judi look forward to becoming involved with our many interesting Marsh Creek residents and fully enjoying our Florida lifestyle. Frank and Diane Clark are not new faces in Marsh Creek, but they are new faces at 366 Marsh Point Circle. The Clarks first moved to our community in 2004 purchasing a home on Marshside Drive North. Their daughter had attended Flagler College and later made Saint Augustine her home. After visiting her a few times, the Clarks also fell in love with Saint Augustine. Frank and Diane truly enjoyed their Marsh Creek lifestyle of golf, tennis, and kayaking; and they enjoyed the friendships they had established. Diane was still working at the family business near Erie, Pennsylvania but recently has started to scale back on her involvement. She looked forward to spending more time in Marsh Creek. Building their new home, Frank and Diane are captivated by the changing view of the intercoastal waters and marshes. Please welcome the Clarks to their new surroundings in our wonderful neighborhood. Editor Suzanne Beck 247 Marshside Drive St. Augustine, FL 32080 [email protected] Editorial Approval MCOA Communications Committee MCOA Board of Directors Publisher The St.Augustine Record/ St. Augustine Media One News Place St. Augustine, FL 32086 Advertising Ali Herlong (904) 819-3533 [email protected] Publication Policy The function of the Marsh Creek News Journal (MCNJ) is to serve the entire Marsh Creek community. The MCNJ editor aggregates content from residents and other sources and uses that content to inform the entire community. First priority will be given to reporting news and activities of the Marsh Creek Community, community organizations, committees and other news and events that directly affect Marsh Creek residents. Second priority will be given to articles of general interest as space permits. Content space in the Marsh Creek News Journal is controlled by the St. Augustine Record and the editor reserves the right to abridge any submission or defer its publication until a later issue. The MCNJ accepts no editorial content that contains items of a political or religious nature or items that might be controversial, divisive, insensitive or pit neighbor against neighbor. Items must be verifiably factual and may not contain comments that could be considered libelous or slanderous toward businesses or persons. The Marsh Creek News Journal is published 6 times a year in January, March, May, July, September and November. Articles must be received as an electronic e-mail attachment by the last day of the month preceding publication and should be sent to the Acting Editor at [email protected] . Letters to the Editor must be signed as well as brief and in good taste. Views expressed are those of the writer and do not express the viewpoint of the editorial staff of the Marsh Creek Owners Association or Marsh Creek residents. As with general content letters to the editor may not contain items of a political or religious nature or items that might be controversial, divisive, insensitive or pit neighbor against neighbor. Items must be verifiably factual and may not contain comments that could be considered libelous or slanderous toward businesses or persons. All advertising submitted for publication in The Marsh Creek News Journal must be received by the 10th of each month for publication the following month. All matters concerning advertising should be referred to The St. Augustine Record advertising sales staff. Ads may be e-mailed to your sales representatvie, [email protected] or sent to The St. Augustine Record, C/O your sales representative, One News Place, St. Augustine, FL 32086. The Marsh Creek News Journal’s acceptance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement or approval of any product or services by the Publisher, Marsh Creek Property Owners Association, The Marsh Creek Country Club or any Marsh Creek resident. Publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising that does not meet the standards of the publication. The Publisher of the Marsh Creek News Journal agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Marsh Creek residents and Property Owners Association and its directors, officers and members from any claims asserted against or financial liabilities incurred by them arising from commercial content of this publication or anything contained in any advertising copy, including without limitation any claims of whatever nature asserted by advertisers or potential advertisers. The Marsh Creek News Journal is published for the residents of the Marsh Creek Community, St. Augustine, Florida under the authority of the Marsh Creek Owners Association. You don’t have to read this if you don’t want to – it’s about fishing. Not how to fish or when to fish, just fishing. I know many of you have absolutely no interest in fishing and could care less about fish, or worse, listen to someone talk about fishing. I love to fish and Ed Connolly have always sort of viewed Marsh Creek as a small drinking village with a big fishing problem (you can’t fish here!). So why, you ask, am I now writing about fishing – simple – we’re coming into Spring and my ever-so-patient Editor finally just rolled her eyes, sighed, and said “You know, sometimes you just have to humor an old man.” So, let’s see what makes fishing such a wonderful human endeavor: • Requirements: There are none. There are no height or weight restrictions and for the most part, intelligence, or the lack of, is not a bar to participation. No one has ever been prevented from fishing because they were too fat or not smart enough. In addition, fishing is not gender-specific; both sexes enjoy fishing. [Though, in the interest of full disclosure, all the women in my family have told me in unequivocal terms that they prefer shopping to fishing, for some “stinky, old slimy fish”. Ahem.] However, the only thing you must do is show up: you have to go to the fish; the fish don’t come to you. • Training & Education: You really don’t need any. I mean there’s really no school for fishing. Oh sure, there are certain basic things you have to know, like where to tie on the hook or what to do with the fish after you catch it, but generally, fishing does not require formal training. Though I was delighted to learn that next fall Florida State University will be offering their studentathletes a BS degree in Fishing to insure that they’ll have something to do after their playing days are over. Nice. • Equipment: This is very important because it is virtually impossible to catch fish by hand. There are some folks who do practice hand-fishing, which I guess can be fun if you don’t plan on using your hands for anything else. It’s best to just get yourself a rod and reel. There’s a whole bunch of other stuff you can use, of course, but I’ve found you always seem to have a better day of it if you bring along some beer, potato chips, fried chicken bonding, satisfies the urge to be a “hunter-gatherer”, blah, blah, blah. But in my view, there’s only one reason to go fishing and that’s because it’s fun, enjoyable, a bit challenging and always makes for a good story. Congratulations! You are now fish ready. There’s a lot more to tell, of course, but all you really need to get started is a little patience . . . and a worm. and a big, fat cigar (if you smoke, that is). • Language: Fishing has a jargon all its own. This is the hard part; trying to understand what these people are talking about. Fish language can really get exotic. Let’s take something simple like what kind of fish did I just catch? Is it a croaker or a grunt? [If it makes a sound when it grinds its teeth, it’s a grunt.] You see, fish aren’t just fish, they have specific, sometimes weird, names and the same fish may even have a different name depending on where you caught it. Ugh! I usually just point to what I caught and let somebody else figure out what the hell to call it. • Size matters: I never heard anybody run around The St. Augustine Fishing Pier shouting: “Wow! Look at this - I just caught a small fish!” A big fish is always better than a small fish; and as we all know, size is often in the eyes (and mind) of the beholder. We know that fisherman don’t lie, but hey, liars do fish. Like it or not, fishing brings out our competitive nature where our recollection doesn’t always resemble the truth. Fish may be a great brain food but fishing does wonders for the imagination. • Benefits: Plenty: relieves stress, enhances social MAY 2016 • The Marsh Creek News Journal • http://staugustine.com/marshcreek Is It a Croaker Or a Grunt? 5 MAY 2016 • The Marsh Creek News Journal • http://staugustine.com/marshcreek 6 Our Well-Used Sign Construction fees in Marsh Creek Some of our residents have inquired about the purpose of the fees that are required to be paid in advance of various construction projects and held in escrow until such projects are completed. As stated in the current revision of the Marsh Creek Architectural Review Board Guidelines, the ARB is authorized “To adopt a schedule of reasonable fees for processing requests for ARB approval of proposed improvements. Such fees shall be payable to Marsh Creek Owners Association, Inc., at the time that plans and specifications are submitted to the ARB.” Philip Tutschek, Once the reviews are completed, the following will take place: ARB Chair “Upon final plan approval by the ARB, and prior to written authorization to commence construction, the Owner, Builder/Contractor must deliver to the ARB a Construction Compliance Deposit in the amount of $5000 for new home construction, $2500 for pools, $1500 for structural renovations, additions, enclosures, re-roof, driveway replacements, and $5000 as a Demolition Compliance Deposit. These deposits will be held in a non-interest bearing escrow account by the Marsh Creek Owners Association, Inc., to ensure the improvements are built in compliance with the approved plans and specifications. Satisfactory completion includes, but is not limited to, architectural plan compliance, landscape installation, drainage inspection, a review of streets and curbs for damage, a review of adjacent lots for damage and a review of adjacent areas to see that all debris has been removed, and inspection of the final exterior color scheme and of any other exterior features reflected on the approved plans. Upon completion of the project, a copy of the Owner/Contractor Certificate “Exhibit F” shall be forwarded to the ARB Coordinator. Upon receipt, the ARB will inspect the site to verify the house or other improvements were completed in accordance with the approved plans and specifications. Once approved, the ARB will issue a final approval letter and return the Construction Compliance Deposit or Demolition Compliance Deposit. If in the sole opinion of the ARB, the house or other improvements were not completed in compliance with the approved plans, deductions from the Deposit may be required. Any change or variation from the plans or color scheme as approved by the ARB must be resubmitted to the ARB. Failure to do so may create delays in the release of the Deposit or require modifications back to the original approved design.” It is also stated in the guidelines that “All builders and contractors shall be held responsible for the acts of their employees, subcontractors, suppliers and any other persons or parties involved in the construction, alteration or demolition of the home site.” All fees may be submitted by either the homeowner or the contractor, but it should be noted that these fees are held not only to protect the Marsh Creek community and its roads and common property, but also to assure that the homeowner receives the proper work for which he or she has contracted. Several years ago our Marsh Creek Home Owners Association purchased the large, reusable signs at the front and back gates. This was done to clean up the random cardboard poster-look that had been greeting us as we entered the neighborhood. As one can see in the photo, both the Marsh Creek Community and individual residents are taking advantage of this great way to make news known. The process of having a sign made is quite simple, and we encourage resident participation. Please keep the following three steps in mind. Personal Sign Posting – 3 Easy Steps 1. Before ordering your sign, the Sign Coordinator on the Roads and Common Property Committee will need to approve the wording and style. Currently, Ann Reid is the Sign Coordinator and she can be reached at 4714747 or by email, annmikereid@gmail. com. She will provide a form for you to describe the content of the sign as well as the posting dates so that the guards know when to put the signs up and take them down. 2. Signs can typically be up for 5 days, but more if a situation warrants it. Please be sure to retrieve your sign from the guard within 7 days of the date the sign is to come down. 3. To order your sign after approval, please contact Darrel at Signs by Darrel Galles, phone number 824-0757. He is located at 551 S. Dixie Highway. His email is [email protected]. The price is $20 per sign for the Corplast (a little like foam board) or $30 for aluminum. Charges may vary based on the complexity of the sign Not too late for a Mark II Mailbox Orders keep coming in! We contacted the supplier of the MARK II mailbox posts and he has extended his price guarantee until May 15th so it is not too late to order a MARK II mailbox. Just put your name and address on a piece of paper with the words “Please order me a Marsh Creek MARK II mailbox” and send it along with a check for $225 to: MAY Management 5455 A1A S #103, St Augustine, FL 32080 Our current wholesale price for the post is more than $40 cheaper than the retail price and our installation cost is at least $25 cheaper because of our bulk deal. Once the May 15th deadline has passed we will be publishing details of where you can buy a MARK II post online. Most of us born in the United States just take our freedom for granted. This story of our security officer, Stan Wietrzynski, might make us appreciate it more. Stan is 66 years old and was born in Poland. He father fought in WWII and was a prisoner of war and was held both by the Russians and Germans. After the war, Rick Johnson Poland was placed under communist Russia until 1989. Stan always yearned for freedom and his chance for it finally came in 1989. He had a friend in New York and left Poland that year to come to the United States in search of freedom. He left behind his wife and two children. Stan was fluent in Polish, Russian, and German but could not speak a word of English. He stayed with his friend and immediately started working at a car wash. He then got a job removing asbestos from buildings and all the while he was trying to learn the English language. In 1992, he was able Stan Wietrzynski to obtain a job working in security in the New York area. That year his wife and children were able to leave Poland and join him in New York. They both became citizens of the United States. Stan continued to work in security with various firms in New York and eventually transferred to Florida in 2004 because his wife wanted a warmer climate. Stan’s son joined the US Army and had 3 tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. His daughter just completed her master’s degree in music and his wife is a professional piano instructor. Stan and his wife live in Palm Coast and enjoying kayaking and walking on the beach as leisure activities. Stan is one of the security guards you very rarely see because his principal duties are patrolling Marsh Creek at night. He reports at 10 pm and works until 6 am. He has worked in Marsh Creek since 2012. Stan takes great pride in his work and is extremely vigilant. While on patrol he has found two residents that fell while walking their dogs and were injured and not capable of getting off the ground. Rescue was called for one and the other was assisted back to her house. He says the biggest thing he sees every night is open garage doors. In 2011 we had a rash of burglaries in Marsh Creek from teens coming in through the woods off A1A and they were entering houses through open garage doors. When Stan sees an open garage door he calls the resident to notify them. He said most are respectfully but some do not wish to be called again so they are placed on a do not call list. Another very valuable service performed by Stan is the vacation house checks. If a resident requests to have their house checked while on vacation, Stan does a complete and thorough 360 degree check to look for vandalism or any other irregularities with the house. Marsh Creek is very fortunate to have an individual the caliber of Stan working for us. If you get a call at midnight from a fellow with a polish accent informing you about an open garage door now you know who is making that call. MAY 2016 • The Marsh Creek News Journal • http://staugustine.com/marshcreek Meet your security officers 7 MAY 2016 • The Marsh Creek News Journal • http://staugustine.com/marshcreek 8 What’s Up Doc? Hospitalists & New Ultrasound System The March “What’s Up Doc?” Meeting introduced the concept of a HOSPITALIST. A hospitalist is a medical specialty dedicated to the delivery of comprehensive medical care to hospiPete Orvis talized patients. Practitioners of hospital medicine include physician and non-physician providers who engage in clinical care, teaching, research and leadership in the field of general hospital medicine. Dr. John Prioleau, managing owner and Medical Director of the First City Hospitalists Group has been providing hospitalist services to Flagler Hospital since 2009. One of the key qualities of a Hospitalist is that he or she is oriented toward treating the patient rather than just treating the disease. Development of an emotional connection between the physician and the patient, based on compassion and empathy, is a hallmark of the hospitalist. Developing such knowledge can include Cultural Diversity, Food choices, Socioeconomic, Religious preference, and environmental factors can play a part in understanding and treating the patient. The Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) Act was passed in 1973 in an effort to contain the cost of medical care. Training more Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Pediatricians rather than specialties has been subsidized by government scholarship. This concept is not new in the United Kingdom and Canada. Inpatient care requires the most intensive use of resources in the hospital, so reduction of days of stay goes a long way to managing costs, while assuring Patient Safety. Many patients admitted to Flagler Hospital are first greeted by a Hospitalist, generally in the Emergency Care Center. The hospitalist has the ability to admit patients to the hospital without waiting for their primary care physician to arrive, evaluate initial tests and subsequently make an admitting decision which saves a considerable amount of time. This immediate care providing initial and continuing care both in the Emergency Care Center and ongoing care provides a continuing relationship when a patient is admitted to the hospital. While there are still a few physicians who prefer to retain the traditional primary caregiver role for their patients, the hospitalist can provide Standardized Care for patients, while engaging specialist care when needed. The Hospitalist physicians and nursing staff team are onsite 24/7/365. They also coordinate physical therapy and social worker liaison for the patient. The model for the First City Hospital Group is to provide expert, compassionate hospital-based care for all patients who arrive at Flagler Hospital. The Marsh Creek Connectors are also supporting the ability for Flagler to purchase a new portable Ultrasound equipment for the Emergency Care Center which greatly improves the capability of the Emergency Care staff. This machine will provide diagnosis of many issues and conditions including: Abdominal Aneurysm, Pericardial effusions, Pneumothorax, Acute Bleeding in the abdomen, Gallstones, Ectopic pregnancy, retinal detachment and location of foreign bodies in traumatic injury among others. This machine can greatly expedite the accurate diagnosis of incoming patient conditions, and speed the delivery of more specific treatment much more quickly than a post-admission patient diagnosis can provide. Maintenance of Association-Owned Property: Equity Considerations “Big Picture” Context Instances will arise in Homeowner Associations where certain aspects of maintenance billed to the general budget of the George Association appear to MacPherson some to “advantage” particular sections of the community. There may be a number of such situations but they tend to offset over time. The fundamental principle of equity is very important in an HOA environment and perceptions of inequity should be raised and addressed. If what was done, why it was done and the legal basis for decisions is made clear, it should help to defuse or minimize an atmosphere of divisiveness in the community. Having an overview of amplifying detail available on each major issue could help ensure consistent explanations and reduce the perpetuation of misunderstandings or misinformation. Situations of Particular Note in Marsh Creek Road Repairs & Repaving The useful life of roadways without gutters can be less than roadways with gutters. Repair and paving of roads without gutters will also tend to cost more because edges of roadways can break down, experience incursion from grass, etc. All of the roadways south of Thunder Bridge are without gutters. Most; but not all of roads north of Thunder Bridge have gutters. Trees Most of the trees planted by the Developer along roadways in our community are north of Thunder Bridge. The land there was less naturally treed than in sections of the community south of the bridge. The Developer planted enhanced landscaping in The Villas. Relatedly, to cover added Common Area landscape maintenance costs relative to other parts of the community, the Developer put in place a Special Common Property Maintenance Assessment which is additive to the Annual Assessment and is applicable only to Owners in The Villas. Irrigation A dominant portion of the MCOA irrigation network is north of Thunder Bridge. It mainly serves homes and common areas in the Patio Home Lot sections of the community. Billings to the PH monthly maintenance program and to the general budget for common ground areas are based on proportional use. The Gray Water project, mandated by Saint Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD), impacts only Patio Home Lots and Common Property in the Patio Home Lot sections of Marsh Creek. It will use reclaimed water for irrigation. Drainage Our Master Drainage System related costs are higher in sections of the community with swales than in those with gutters. Flowers Flower beds are not located in all sections of the community. Summary Comment Communication is key. Questions should be raised and answers should be provided. Periodically, the Board may see merit in providing amplifying comments about some of the above points and on other issues that may arise. George can be reached at [email protected] March had us Book Club members read a truly lyrical novel, one I did not want to finish. I wanted it never to end. Anthony Doerr’s; All the Light You Cannot See. Not only were the stories of the young German, Werner and the blind French girl, Marie-Laure, captivating Marty Round but the book was also beautifully written; a story of loyalty, friendship, bravery under ghastly conditions, family dynamics, and unbelievable resilience. Barbara Molinari had the honor of leading the discussion, unfortunately too small a group, of this award winning novel. I cannot recommend this book highly enough. April had us coming back to our own city’s remarkable history in Eugenia Price’s Maria. Set in St. Augustine, the story begins when the town is first governed by the British, the Spanish having lost control after the battle in Cuba. It follows Mary Evans Fenwick from her first day in the young Hispanic colony to her last, nearly forty years later. Although fiction, it was well researched and gives the reader a clear picture of life in St.Augustine during those years. Marilyn Meeks asked thoughtful questions which engendered a fairly thorough discussion. This is the first of Ms. Price’s Florida trilogy and is perhaps the best of the three, but all are worth reading. I only managed to read one other book during February....so little time! It was another Steve Berry novel, one of the Cotton Malone series Patriot Threat. I love how Berry, who, by the way, lives in World Golf Village, researches an interesting piece of history and then incorporates that research into his thrillers. This one concerns FDR, Andrew Mellon, and the 16th Amendment, the one which set up our April 15th nemesis, the Income Tax. Is it legal? I found this Berry novel as fascinating as his others. In fact, I sent it on to my 14-year-old grandson Cam, hoping to lure him into reading more for pleasure. His 16-year-old sister Maia has been getting our book club selections for several years and she has loved them all. Remember, readers, books are written to be shared. My college friends and I spent an entire morning creating a list of “must read” titles for one another and I was the only English major in the group! My neighbors and I do the same thing at gatherings, share our thoughts about books. Our final book is the novel The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins which has been on the best seller list for months. Everyone I have spoken with really enjoyed this book which concerns the lives of three women and the events surrounding the murder of one of them, which ultimately brings their lives together. My co-chair Betsy Yeomans and Lisa Klein will wind up the season with this novel. We will gather in the Men’s Card Room at 5:30 for a final social dining experience first. We will have the choice of three entrees: 1. Blackened Salmon Salad (you can request unblackened) $12 2. Filet and Wedge; a salad with fire grilled beef tenderloin and blue cheese dressing ( you may request a different dressing). $13 3. Jack Daniel’s Chicken Breast with mashed potatoes, and seasonal vegetables. $15. Please call Judy with your choice by April 29th. Or you might choose to arrive at the usual time of 7 PM for dessert, coffee, and the discussion. The list of final selections for the next season will be given out to members at that time. If unable to attend the May meeting, copies of the list will be made available. I will also include it in my next MCNJ article. Dare I suggest you cut it out and put it on your refrigerator so you can begin perusing the books over the summer and then join us in the Fall!? Regards Marty Round MAY 2016 • The Marsh Creek News Journal • http://staugustine.com/marshcreek The Bespectacled Reader 9 MAY 2016 • The Marsh Creek News Journal • http://staugustine.com/marshcreek 10 GETAWAYS in Florida “Old Florida” is sometimes mentioned from those wanting to experience anything else besides Disney, glitzy beach cities and just wanting to reminisce a quieter time. Out our back gate, one can find a pleasant drive to several places that show off Florida’s John Sykes natural state. Depending on your sense of adventure, let’s start with a drive to Palatka and decide from there. Before highway bridges, numerous ferries moved river and island traffic around the state connecting isolated Florida to the “civilized” world. Today, only four remain, floating vehicles and some residents “to the other side” a convenience saving miles of driving. For the adventurous, go south from Palatka on Hwy 17 and head toward Fort Gates on Hwy 309 about seven miles outside of town and drive another twelve miles arriving in this old Florida river village. For over 150 years the Fort Gates Ferry has moved a variety of travelers including soldiers, wagons, hunters and now vehicles, needing a shortcut over the St Johns River. The ferry cost is $10.00 per car, operating seven days a week except Tuesday. Get the attention of the ferry captain after arriving at the river by walking in the fish camp next to the river making your presence known. After crossing, you’re on the Ocala National Forest side driving a weaving forest service road (maintained) offering seven miles of pleasant Florida wilderness before arriving on SR 19. Go when its dry, the road is yellow clay. Back on the main road, head south four miles and stop at Salt Springs State Park or head north to Palatka and Ravine State Park. Bubbling up from clefts in the earth, crystal-clear water gushes year round from Salt Springs and flows about 5 miles before emptying into Lake George. Canoes can be rented and launched from Salt Springs Marina, located at the head of the Salt Springs Run. The park has plenty to do from swimming, biking and several nature trails Four Gates Ferry Welaka Fl to explore. At Ravine State Park, one of the state’s oldest natural gardens dating to the New Deal era, take in over 100,000 flowers planted over the years. Known for its Azalea festival, the flowering gardens are stunning and spring is the time to go. The park is a pack the picnic basket kind of place where you’re meant to relax and enjoy nature. There is a bit of adventure to entice your curios- ity within a couple hours from Saint Augustine. If the ferry looks a little too risqué, start in Palatka and go south to Salt Springs, no century plus ferry to be concerned with. Ravine State Park is in Palatka and easy hour drive Anastasia Island. Safe travels! IF you’re going: http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/ocala/ recarea/?recid=32362 https://www.floridastateparks.org/park/ravine-gardens 11 MAY 2016 • The Marsh Creek News Journal • http://staugustine.com/marshcreek MAY 2016 • The Marsh Creek News Journal • http://staugustine.com/marshcreek 12 ANTARCTICA: Our Trip of a Lifetime By Kathy Waymire and Clell Ray A trip to Antarctica might not be on everyone’s “bucket list” but it was certainly on ours. In fact, the question we were asked most often was why we wanted to go THERE? Many answers abound, but the simplest one was that there is a mystic to Antarctica that few travelers get to explore. As both of us are retired airline pilots and have traveled much of the world, to see the seventh continent held that excitement few destinations could compete against. Once the decision was made to book the trip, then it was a matter of what ship and when to go. Booking a year out was a wise choice as there was only one trip that went below the Antarctic Circle and back up the Antarctic Peninsula which was a must for us. Trips leave from November through March (their summer) and we chose January 16-28, 2016 on Quark Expeditions. We liked the size of their ship which allowed it through passages and in harbors that bigger ships couldn’t navigate. It also had daily onshore and offshore expeditions for all 185 passengers in zodiac boats with a varied staff of marine biologist, geologist, ornithologist, naturalist, etc. A very knowledgeable and experienced staff. We were not disappointed! Our trip was to leave out of Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world or “end of the world” as the locals like to say. Getting there entailed first driving our dog to Memphis, TN (14 hours) so she wouldn’t have to be boarded for weeks and have the comfort of staying with family (the lengths we go to for our pets!). We then flew to Atlanta and on to Buenos Aires for 4 days to explore the city and then on down to Ushuaia to board Quarks, Ocean Diamond Ship. Atlanta to Ushuaia is approximately 6200 miles but only 2 hours different from St Augustine, making for minimal jet lag. Leaving Ushuaia with passengers from all parts of the world who become friends by trips end, we sailed through the Beagle Channel into the Drake Passage where it connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and extends into the Southern Ocean. It is known for having some of the roughest waters in the world. Thankfully for us, our seas never got above 15 feet! After 2 1/2 days at sea, we crossed the Antarctic Circle with a ships celebration at 6:30 am, complete with champagne and the token blessing of Neptune for safe journeys. We saw our first icebergs, sea ice and the ice cliffs of Adelaide Island where we would see our first variety of penguins, the Adelie, and Crabeater seals on our first zodiac excursion exploring Marguerite Bay. One of the most notable realizations was the lack of color in the landscapes, water and sky. All monochromatic in varying shades of white, grey and blue made one’s depth perception misleading. Distance and heights were difficult to judge as there were no trees, so you might think a glacier was low only to Clell Ray and Kathy Waymire see another zodiac boat get close to it and realize its several hundred feet high. There was a brilliant blue in some icebergs and the clearest water on earth. Over the course of the next 7 days we would divide the day into exploring on shore or exploring the bays by zodiac. Our first on shore expedition, on Detaille Island, had the hut of the British Antarctic Survey Station West which had been evacuated in 1959 when sea ice and weather made getting supplies impossible. Leaving all they had behind, we got a true glimpse what life was for their personnel as everything was still as it was in 1959. The excursion along the Lallemand Fjord had an unexpected surprise: Emperor penguins which are a rare sight along the western side of the Antarctica Peninsula. We also saw numerous Adelie penguins and crab eater seals among the large icebergs that had been frozen into the sea ice. We explored the Yalour and Petermann Islands where it was quite snowy and cold. Large colonies of Adelie and Gentoo penguins nested on the rocks. 13 stop, they would kayak instead of doing the zodiac excursions. The easiest way to tell the Gentoo penguins from the Adelie penguins was to look at their beaks; Adelie’s have black beaks and Gentoo’s are orange. The third variety of penguin we saw on the trip was when we saw the Chinstrap penguins at Mikkelsen Harbor. They really look like they’re wearing chin straps on their heads! Humpback Whales were abundant in Wilhelmina Bay and through the Graham Passage. The zodiac boats got up close without the whales paying any attention. Even back on the ship you could see multiple pods bubble-net feeding on krill. We also saw the Antarctic Minke Whales, but didn’t get to see the Orca or Blue Whales which also migrate to Antarctica. Whale bones remain from the early 1900’s when the whaling industry would process hunted whales for their blubber. We were surprised that the wildlife, whether penguins or seals, seemed unfazed by humans. We were told that humans are not their predators, so not to be surprised if they walked right by you (which they did) all the while you were trying to remain the required 5 feet from them. Fact is, all wildlife living in Antarctica must be able to survive from the ocean. Port Lockroy and Jougla Point Landing at British Base A. This is a museum restored to the 1950’s British base with original artifacts. It is also the southernmost post office manned in the summer, complete with a gift shop. We not only sent post cards to family-just allow up to 8 months for delivery; but we were able to buy T-shirts and souvenirs as well. All for a good cause as it supported the museum efforts. There were 3 British employees, the first people were we able to talk to that were not part of the ship! I think it was also about a week after leaving Ushuaia, before we even saw another ship, so getting to talk to another human that lived there was a treat. Camping in Antarctica! We might have been unsure at first, but it proved to be an incredible experience. No tents, but great sleeping bags. A beautiful night, with no darkness only twilight and SILENCE...nothing but the wind... and the lone penguin... MAY 2016 • The Marsh Creek News Journal • http://staugustine.com/marshcreek They build their nests out of rocks as high up as possible where their biggest predator on land being the skuas and giant petrel birds also nested. The birds would hunt in pairs, trying to get the parent penguin off or away from the nest, wherein the other bird would swoop in and steal the chick. The chicks were of all sizes but you could tell them by their fur which was soft and down like. Their parents would take turns going into the ocean to feed on krill, coming back to the nest to regurgitate the food to the baby chick. There was also kayaking on this trip, but you had not just to sign up at least a year in advance but also be a very experienced sea kayaker as well. Only 17 people were in that group and at every MAY 2016 • The Marsh Creek News Journal • http://staugustine.com/marshcreek 14 Phyllis Bucsko Mother Nature was not very kind to the LGA in February. We were able to work in only two tournaments between the rains. On February 2, Barbara Armstrong, Joyce Barrentine, Jackie Piontek, and Linda Krauter won the “2 best ball net” with a score of 130. Our newest member, Nancy Stevens, Lois Dickstein, Michelle Grobman, and Chris Conzemius came in second with 132. February 23rd tournament combined one best ball GROSS with one best ball NET score. Sandy Brokmeyer, Barbara Davis, Eileen Scheid, and Audrey Sadler won the day with a 138. Kim Cochrane, Phyllis Chapman, Pat Klinck, and Jackie Piontek were 2nd with a 142. Our February makeup Stableford was held on March 1st, followed shortly thereafter by the March tournament on March 15. To date, the EMERALDS lead by 35 points with a total of 1,482. The RUBIES are second with 1,447 and the SAPPHIRES trail with 1,380 points. The highest scorers for both days were Barbara Davis and Laurie Mussoline with 41 points; Barbara Armstrong and Angela Siragusa with 39. Our last Stableford will be on April 12th and promises to be a fight to the finish. On March 22 our format was ‘best ball net” of a twosome. Eileen Scheid and Joan Sinclair teamed up to win with a 59. Close behind was Laurie Mussoline and Lois Dickstein with 60 and Joyce Barrentine and Pat Klinck with 61. Our major tournament was the LGA Championship held on March 8th and 10th. Competition was stiff and the winners scores were very close. Pat Langley is our LGA GROSS Champion with Joan Sinclair Runner-Up. Sandy Brokmeyer is NET Champion with Eileen Scheid as Runner-Up (see photo). It’s hard to believe that we’re so close to the end of our regular season, but our last big event will be the LGA’s 2016 MemberGuest tournament to be held on April 17 and 18. It’s always a great day with lots of fun and prizes. Since the MC Journal goes to press on April 19, I’ll have to let you know the winners of that event later. Pat Langley, Joan Sinclair, Sandy Brokmeyer, and Eileen Scheid The Island Classic Ladies Member Guest “Margaretville” April 17, 18 We thank all our sponsors in advance for their support. Please give our sponsors your support! Title Sponsor: Hyundai of St. Augustine, Andrew Difeo Luncheon & Cocktail Party Sponsor: Diane Grady, Endless Summer Realty Prize Sponsor: St. John’s Family Dentistry & Jax Beaches Family Dentistry, Dr. Michelle Hucke Sponsors: Atlantic Automotive & Quick Lube, Azalea Health, Blackfly The Restaurant, Brightway Insurance, Ashley Casey, Craig Funeral Home, Dr. Vu, Harmony Medical, Eye Center, Dr. Thompson, Fidus Roofing & Construction, Fisher Concrete, Paving the Way Island Family Pharmacy, The Lawn Ranger, Dave Furnal, May Management, Annie MarksMarsh Creek Country Club, John Mussoline, AttorneyAt-Law Ned’s Southside Kitchen, North Florida Urology, Dr. Narayan, Oliver Oaks & Vines (Joyce Oliver), Panache, Aveda Store-Salon-Spa, St. Augustine Alligator Farm, South Beach Grill, Ted McLemore, Herbie Wiles Insurance, UniShippers, Verdego Landscape Design & Garden Center, Watson Realty, Greg Crum Gifts: Atlantic Automotive: umbrellas; Bob Langley: golf balls; Dr. Vu: sunscreen; Mane de Leon Salon: gift certificate Marianne Messler Membership Director CLUBCORP IS NUMBER O.N.E! In case you missed it, Marsh Creek recently became the number O.N.E. club in St. Augustine and a part of the ClubCorp family! By now I am sure everyone has heard that the world leader in private clubs has purchased our club and we are now included in ONE of the biggest reciprocity programs in the world. Join today and you begin enjoying all of these great benefits today if you are a member of the club! What is ONE? Optimal Network Experiences gives all ClubCorp members access to over 300 private clubs, affiliate clubs, and business clubs, that share ClubCorp’s passion for excellence and commitment to bringing their members the very best. The ONE benefit is comprised of three components: My Club My Community My World My Club benefits offers 50% off all a la carte food: that is any items ordered off our regular lunch, dinner and Sunday Brunch menus. Alcohol, special events, banquets and buffets are not included. It does however encourage all of our members to dine at the club and enjoy seasonal menus, great daily and evening specials and superior service from our talented staff. My Community benefits is our Jacksonville area. As a ONE member, you receive two (2) complimentary greens fees per month per club at Deercreek Country Club and Marsh Creek Country Club Update Tom Carter General Manager ClubCorp is a Dallas based corporation founded in 1957. ClubCorp owns and operates more than 200 golf and country clubs, business clubs, sports clubs and alumni clubs in 26 states and two foreign countries. Marsh Creek Country Club is one of ClubCorp’s newest acquisitions and we are pleased to be a part of the Marsh Creek family. ClubCorp is more than a collection of properties. It is a community of more than 430,000 Members supported by over 20,000 Employee Partners. At the initial Membership meeting the Members were informed that Club Corp will invest in the property with the following upgrades: • Enlarging the fitness room at the tennis center • Removing the planters in the lobby and opening up the lobby area, new receptionist desk • Golf course improvements - #10 fairway • Upgrade inside of clubhouse – dining room and 19th hole - a more contemporary and modern look • New Patio furniture Bryan Larrow, the Vice President over the Florida market stated that the goals for membership growth are 50 golf and 50 social memberships. Bryan has communicated to the membership that ClubCorp wants to add better programing, staffing and continue to fund capital projects as we grow the club. If you are interested in getting information about the new membership offerings please call Marianne at (904) 461-1101 ext. 233 ClubCorp is very happy to have Tom Carter here leading the team and staff. Tom has over 30 years’ experience in the golf business and has been with ClubCorp since 2000. Tom and his wife, Cora, are moving in from Atlanta and their two daughters, Maria and Anastasia, will also move to St Augustine to join. All members of the Carter family are avid golfers and tennis players. Tom, along with his wife and daughters are looking forward to meeting you and seeing you at the club. Truly, The Carter family Queens Harbour Yacht and Country Club (pay cart fee only). Visit either club’s tennis, fitness or pool venues two times per month as well. You also will enjoy two (2) 50% a la carte meals at both Deercreek and Queens Harbour + two (2) 50% off meals at the prestigious University Club, downtown Jacksonville at the top of the Riverplace Tower. Clubline will help you find tickets to sporting events, concerts, hotels and special member experiences. It’s like having your own personal concierge service! Alcohol, service fees and tax not included in dining at all clubs. My World benefits include our network of renowned golf courses offering two (2) complimentary green fees per club per month (pay cart fee only, access to beautiful resorts, spas, and two (2) complimentary dinners per business club per month (alcohol, service fees and tax not included), hotels, resorts, spas and experiences you have only dreamed about. All memberships now include the ONE benefit. We offer several categories, ONE that will enhance your lifestyle. With so much available to YOU, I invite all residents who do not belong to the club to schedule an appointment today and learn about all of the wonderful places and things you can do as a ONE member. ONE more thing.....ClubCorp is offering special incentives for new members, ONE you surely do not want to miss. But hurry.......these special offers will only be available for a short time. Please call me today for an appointment. Marianne Cettei, Membership Director, 904-461-1101 x 233 [email protected] MAY 2016 • The Marsh Creek News Journal • http://staugustine.com/marshcreek Country Club News 15 MAY 2016 • The Marsh Creek News Journal • http://staugustine.com/marshcreek 16 Camille Kay Niner News You may wonder: “Are the Niners always busy?” Let these following examples from our February and March calendar answer that question. Busy February events began on the 8th with a Golf Interclub at Palencia. Eight Niners attended along with many other golfers from various neighboring teams. Honors went to Ann Simmons’s foursome in 2nd place, Hilde Berdine’s Foursome in 3rd place, and Sally Carlson getting closest to the pin on Hole #5. What a great showing, Ladies! On February 11th our Niners played in the first of our new annual Memorial Tournament honoring Marsh Creek Niners who passed away. Suzanne Beck made a lovely poster as a tribute to these women which reminded all of us how deeply our friendship goes. The winners of the tournament were: Flight 1 1st place-Chris Ernst 2nd place-Anna Benincasa Flight 2 1st place-Pat Wittmeyer 2nd place-Pat Lopinto & Mary Ann Meyer tied. Debby Radbill was closest to the pin. Pat Wittmeyer had the longest putt. Pat Lopinto was closest to the pin in 2 shots. Pat Wittmeyer and Gale Mitchell had a chip-in. On February 18th the Niners played a scramble with the 18-Holers as a fundraiser for the Joanne Arnett Tutschek Fund. This fund, administered through Flagler Hospital, provides grants to local women for breast cancer diagnostic procedures. This was a great way for our two Marsh Creek Ladies’ Golf groups to mingle and participate in a worthwhile cause. Our 2-day Championship Tournament was held on March 8th and 10th. Results of this tournament will be announced at our Season’s Closing Day Luncheon. On March 24th, The Niners held their annual Spring Fling where husbands or friends are partnered for a scramble and a luncheon. On a beautiful day, forty-four players participated in this event. The winning foursome was Jack and Mary Ann Meyer and Max and Liz Hartmann. Two foursomes were tied for second. They were: Joe and Pat Lopinto and Jim and Mary Lou Garrison, along with Bill and Ginger Foley and Jack and Karen McCutcheon. Caroline Crocker came closest to the pin among the ladies, and Howard Vaughters was closest to the pin among the men. On the last day of March, San Jose Country Club hosted a “Golf March Madness” Interclub. Three Marsh Creek Our Leprechaun, Kathy Sampson Peggy Cutrino Debby Radbill & Linda Oakley The 8 Niners that attended the Palancia Interclub Event Niners, Nancy Erion, Carol Toman & Suzanne Beck attended and enjoyed a lovely day playing at a different course. The Niners also like to exchange good stories about each other. Several of these happenings seem newsworthy to share. One story is about superior golf dedication, and the other stories are about superior golf play. • On February 9th, a very cold day with windchills in the 30’s, only two golfers were brave enough to tackle the chal- lenge of the elements on the golf course. Cece Orvis and Laurie Luciano, attired in long johns and other appropriate garb, gave the pro-shop a chuckle when they entered. Both women have recently turned 80 and are originally from Connecticut so they were aptly addressed by the pros at the desk: “Yankee Clippers”. • Regarding superior golfing, Hilde Berdine has been shining. Not only did she have a nice showing at the Palencia Interclub, she also got longest putt and 17 MAY 2016 • The Marsh Creek News Journal • http://staugustine.com/marshcreek The Memorial Tournament Suzanne Burkett, Kathy Sampson and Ann Simmons closest to the pin in 2 shots during the February 4th Thursday competition. In other noteworthy accomplishments, on March 17th, Kathy Sampson played golf dressed as our resident leprechaun. It is obvious that some of her luck must have rubbed off on the following women: On that day Paula Hutson made 3 pars and was closest to the pin in 2 shots, while the following week Pat Wittmeyer ended her round with a par on #9. She got there in three strokes and two-putted! Chris Ernst, our Birdie Recorder, has announced that so far for the year the Niners have made 39 Birdies with 11 people having multiple Birdies. Way to go, Ladies! So there you are – the inside scoop about The Niners. Hope you enjoyed reading our news, and if you have not yet done so, consider becoming a member yourself. MAY 2016 • The Marsh Creek News Journal • http://staugustine.com/marshcreek 18 MARSH CREEK WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION Hilde Berdine, Corresponding Secretary MCWA The MCWA Outreach Committee Co-Chairs, Helen Boxer and Pattie Nolton, are pleased to announce that the “Venetian Carnivale” event raised over $11,000 for our charities. The fundraiser took place at the lovely home of Marcelle and Paul Gallucci. The event featured contributed food from local restaurateurs, including Aviles at the Hilton, The Black Fly, Mellow Mushroom and Romano’s (Rte. 1); a delightful tasting of Italian wines; a raffle of three baskets and a silent auction. We extend a most generous thank you to the many MCWA members who contributed to this memorable event, which was enjoyed by over 125 guests. The Outreach Committee encourages everyone to thank and support the nearly 100 local donors for this event, especially Hyundai of St. Augustine, our title sponsor; the complete list of our donors and patrons is published in this issue of the Marsh Creek News Journal. The six charities that will benefit from our fundraising efforts this season include St. Francis House, The Good Samaritan Wildflower Medical/Dental Clinic, St. Augustine Youth Services (SAYS), Food 4 Kids, Emergency Services and Homeless Coalition of St. Johns County (ESHC), and Betty Griffin House Sexual Assault Recovery Program. At our final meeting of the year, on April 13th, the slate of officers for 2016-2017 was unanimously approved by the membership. They are: President: Gale Mitchell Vice President and Program Committee Chair: Lydia Daniel Treasurer: Sue Sherman Recording Secretary: Paula Hutson Corresponding Secretary: Debbie Coates Barbara Strauss, Past President, will serve as Advisor. The April meeting coincided with the Marsh Creek 16th Annual Arts and Crafts Show, “Vintner’s Awards,” on April 13th and 14th. Our Marsh Creek community artists contributed a variety of mediums, including oil, watercolor or acrylic canvas, photography, knitting work, jewelry, quilting, written medium and craft items. Attendance was brisk as visitors enjoyed viewing the large variety of artistic mediums presented by the equally large talent pool of artists. We thank the Club for its own artful display of hors d’oeuvres at the Thursday Happy Hour. Finally, remember to check our website -marshcreekwomen.org -- for photos after each event, as well as to stay abreast of all MCWA activities. List of patrons, donors and sponsors located on page 22. Louise Zambon-Nelson Braised Chicken with Lemon and Olives A good cook needs an assortment of chicken dishes to fall back on. Aside from roasting or frying (and in addition to grilling), braising chicken is a simple technique to master. Chicken thighs make the best braises; use skin-on bone-in thighs for the best flavor. Though it could be done on the stovetop, this dish is oven-braised. From Evan Sung for The New York Times by Chef David Tanis TIME: 1 hour 45 minutes INGREDIENTS: 8 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in, about 3 1/2 pounds Salt and pepper ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes 6 garlic cloves, minced ½ teaspoon crushed fennel seeds 1 tablespoon roughly chopped rosemary 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 Meyer lemons, cut in wedges 1 cup flavorful olives with pits, a mixture of black and green, about 1 pound 1 cup chicken broth 3 tablespoons chopped parsley DIRECTIONS: Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season well with salt and pepper and place in an earthenware baking dish in one layer, skin side up. Sprinkle with red pepper, garlic, fennel and rosemary and drizzle with olive oil. Rub seasoning into thighs on all sides. Tuck lemon wedges here and there. Let marinate for 15 minutes. Heat oven to 375 degrees. Put baking dish in oven, uncovered, and roast until skin browns lightly, about 20 minutes. Scatter olives evenly over chicken and add broth. Cover tightly and bake for 1 hour, until meat is very tender when probed with a skewer. Remove thighs and lemon wedges and arrange on a platter. Keep warm. Pour pan juices into a saucepan and quickly skim fat from surface. Over high heat, simmer rapidly until reduced by half. Spoon juices over chicken, sprinkle with parsley and serve. Enjoy! MAY 2016 • The Marsh Creek News Journal • http://staugustine.com/marshcreek From Our Kitchens 19 MAY 2016 • The Marsh Creek News Journal • http://staugustine.com/marshcreek 20 Summer Art Camp 2016 at the St. Augustine Art Association Space is limted and registration is currently underway. Call 904.824.2310. JUNE 6 – 10 SESSION ONE: (9am-Noon) QUICK CHANGE ARTISTS Discover mysterious creatures that instantly change their looks to attract mates, find food or escape hungry predators. Explore the fascinating world of color and the art of optical illusion through 2D and 3D painting and fabrications. Choose morning or afternoon or both in sessions two & three: JUNE 13 – 17 SESSION TWO: (9am-Noon) ART RANGERS Let’s get out there! Just in time for the 100th birthday of America’s National Parks, we’re celebrating with art. Create “plein air” landscapes with paints and pastels, animal collages and cool Ranger gear for a field trip adventure. fantasy world of the Wizard of Oz, this magical journey in quilting, mixed media and fiber art just might cast a spell on you. JUNE 13 – 17 SESSION THREE: (1pm-4pm) OUTTA THE BOX Young architects, builders and sculptors: Break out of the box in this 3D construction project. Assemble Picasso-inspired cubist sculptures of buildings, people, animals, vehicles and more using cardboard, paints and found materials. JUNE 27 – JULY 1 SESSION FIVE: (9am – Noon) CIRCQUE DE C’LAY It’s a three-ring circus in here! Create fun and fanciful characters and props using clay, wire and mixed media. Let your imagination soar under the big top of this Calder-inspired art extravaganza. JUNE 20 – 25 SESSION FOUR: (9am – Noon) STITCHES, WITCHES & WIZARDS Needles, fabric and thread never looked so wickedly good. Inspired by the SUMMER ART CAMP EXHIBIT: Camp concludes with whimsical display of works by all the “Young at Art” Campers! Alex Becker Rain Days Month Rain Amounts (in inches) YTD Month YTD % Change 2014 2015 2016 90 yr 2014 2015 2016 90 yr 2014 2015 2016 90 yr 2014 2015 2016 90 yr vs. last year JAN 8 713 7 8 713 76.75.24.12.5 6.7 5.24.1 2.5 FEB -22% 8 9 8 8 16 16 21 15 6.6 2.3 3.8 3.113.37.5 7.9 5.6 5% MAR 7 8 9 8 23 24 30 23 5.0 2.3 1.8 3.418.39.8 9.7 9.0 -2% APR 10 6 29 34 6 29 3.3 2.9 2.9 21.612.7 11.9 MAY 5 5 8 34 39 37 2.2 1.0 3.3 23.813.8 15.2 JUN 10 14 12 44 53 49 4.9 4.6 5.2 28.718.4 20.4 JUL 14 13 60 67 62 11.8 5.9 5.8 40.524.2 26.2 16 AUG 15 1712 75 8474 7.6 11.35.7 48.1 35.6 31.9 SEP 11 21 13 86 105 87 9.912.4 7.0 5847.9 38.9 OCT 4 8 10 90 113 97 3.01.1 5.561 49 44.4 NOV 8 10 6 98 123 103 6.2 .9 2.367.2 50 46.7 DEC 10 8 103 133 111 2.6 1.5 2.8 69.851.5 49.5 5 TOTAL 103 10311169.8 51.549.5 Rainfall is measured by Charlie Compton - 90YR Source http://www.weatherbase.com Verified 1-16 4/1/2016 We had rain 9 days in March totaling 1.75 inches. March rainfall was less than last year’s and less than the 90 year average. Rainfall total for this year is less than last year’s but more than the 90 year average. This report is also available on our Community web site (MCOA.us). Attention Owners of Patio/Villa Homes Please note any lawn problems at your home or that of an out of town neighbor. Report these to May Management or via a Patio Homes Landscape Preferences and Concerns e-Form on our web site (MCOA.us). Your community art center for over 91 years FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK: Please join us in the Heart of the Historic District on the first Friday of each month, 5-9:00pm for new art exhibits, entertainment and hospitality. Cash & Honorable Mention Awards are given out at 7pm. Diane Bradley CALL FOR ART: 7th Annual Nature & Wildlife Exhibition: installed throughout the entire gallery from July 23-Aug 28, the deadline for entry June 6th. This juried exhibit celebrates nature’s beauty and the wildlife that inhabits it. All media including painting, photography, fiber, jewelry, sculpture, mixed-media, original printmaking, pottery/clay; NO prints, reproductions, giclees or enhanced giclees, taxidermy, no human elements; $5,000 in Awards, $2,000 Award for Best in Show. Download application or enter online: http://www.staugustineartfestival.com/2016%20 Nature%20APP.pdf April 12, 19, 26 (Tuesdays) THE ART OF WINE-MAKING: A course for beginner vintners and curious wine lovers. This 3-week course covers the steps of producing, storing and enjoying your own quality wine $35/person. TOPICS: Wines of the World & Region; From Fermentation to Bottling; Suppliers & Market Trends; Identifying Qualities of Good Wine; Aging, Storing & Serving; Food Pairings & More. To Register Call: 904-824-2310 April 1-May 1, Annual Spring Members Show: A juried exhibition of works created exclusively by STAAA members. This exhibition includes all subjects and all media. April 1-May 1, The 6th Annual All-County Middle School Show: a community outreach initiative in partnership with the St. Johns County schools. May 6-29, Canvas, Clay, Collage & Cutting Edge Show: Four themes are combined in one exhibit. This edgy installation explores and pushes the boundaries of materials and ideas. May 6-29, Sisters of St. Joseph 150 Years: An invitational exhibit that showcases works by the Sisters of St. Joseph on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the historic order. May 15, Sunday, a special 2pm Concert, “Brave Women: 150 Years of Courage” The Cantorae St. Augustine vocal ensemble will honor the Sisters of St. Joseph with a program of song, readings, and images that highlight their arrival, their service, and their courage. Follow them from Le Puy in 1866 to the City Jail in 1916. Music in Latin, French, and English – chant, spirituals, and a bit of Stephen Foster! June 2-July 10, Annual Honors Show: New works by the “Best-of-the-Best” make up this exhibit, which features award winning artists from the past 3-years. Special Awards will be given: $500 Jean Wagner Troemel, Best in Show; Ted Karam Award for Best Sculpture; Emmett Fritz Award for Excellence in Oil Painting. June 2-July 10, artist Don Trousdell presents, Quick Change Artists: A series of fun and educational paintings that depict plants and animals that naturally change colors for many reasons. Don’s “cut-canvas” technique makes his work truly unique. Fun for the entire family! The St. Augustine Art Association is located at 22 Marine St., St. Augustine, FL 32084. They can be reached at 904-824-2310 or on the internet at www.staaa.org . MAY 2016 • The Marsh Creek News Journal • http://staugustine.com/marshcreek Spring News from the St. Augustine Art Association 21 MAY 2016 • The Marsh Creek News Journal • http://staugustine.com/marshcreek 22 On behalf of the Marsh Creek Women’s Association, the Outreach Committee would like to thank these patrons, donors and sponsors for this event, especially Hyundai of St. Augustine, our title sponsor. Benefattores Volkswagen of St. Augustine: Joseph DiFeo Matthew McCarty Berkshire Hathaway: An Marshall Berkshire Hathaway: Stefanie Bernstein Barbara and Fred Olmsted Dr. Lydia Daniel Watson Realty: Alene O’Connor and Sue Stires Land Title of America: Stephen Collins St. Johns Law Group: Douglas & Araan Burnett Betty Laubach and Tom Swanson Connie and Alex Becker Martha and Rufus Jones Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Advisors: Denise Hagan and Harvey Boxer Gina and Alex Wilson Wendy and Burry Gowen Suzanne and Butch Burkett Sharon and Daniel Nootens Patti and Fred Kegelmeyer David and Cynthia Manke Clell Ray and Kathy Waymire PaisansAmicos Lori and Bob Luciano The UPS Store:Ken Patel Lise Buttars Suzanne and Neil Beck Sally and Dick Carlson Kathy Salay Anne Kraft Doris Adukiewicz Garden Gal Cheryl Steimle Individual Gift Baskets Mia Italian Market: Italian Specialties Basket Tony and Val D’Andrea: Wine and Italian-themed Basket Moultrie Animal Clinic:-Dr. Erin Bendick DVM: Pet Basket Hues Hair Salon: Beauty Products Basket Society Pet Spa: Jeanne McLaine Gift Certificate Donors: With special thanks to: The Palencia Club and Old City House Inn and Restaurant Amici Italian Restaurant Pizzalley’s Chianti Room Applebee’s Retail Therapy Aqua East Surf Shop Rochelle’s Clothing Aunt Kate’s Restaurant Salt Life Food Shack Balefire Brasserie Small Indulgences Borrillo’s Pizzeria Southern Horticulture Caps on the Water Surfer Joe’s Pub and Grill Casa Benedetto’s Ristorante The Bistro at Culinary Outfitters CottonWays The Peaceful Place: Jana AgliettaDrake’s Deli Vogel LMT Gypsy Cab Restaurant The Reef Kingfish Grill Tre Sebastian La Cocina Restaurant Tropical Smoothie Café Miss Lily’s Spa Donors of Jewelry and Items For Silent Auction and Raffle: With special thanks to: Eclections, Inc., Joan Delony, and PLUM Art Gallery Anastasia Antiques Nettles Jewelers DHD Home Peaches Filthy Rich Phil & Bonnie King H.W. Davis Salt Life Food Shack Hagan Ace Hardware Simple Gestures Heather Hug/crafter Simply Savory High Tide Gallery Southern Horticulture Island Framers Susan Hargrave James R. Soll Tarpon Gem and Jewelry Joy’s Gourmet/Joy of Garlic The Bead Chick/crafter La-Tee-Da! The Woman’s Exchange Lauren Becker TRA’SEAS:Tracy Womack Linda Holmes True Story Antiques Manila Clough Vintage Babe: Lorri Maloney Mary Duryea World Golf Hall of Fame 4 Stations with Food and Staff generously provided by: Romano’s (Rte. 1): Romano Family Black Fly: Nick Massie, Manager Mellow Mushroom: Louie Boulier, General Manager Aviles: Chris Proulx, Director of Food and Beverage Various Items for the Buffet, provided by: Applebee’s Grill & Bar Black Molly Grill Carrabba’s Italian Grill Creekside Dinery Falafel Queen La Pentola Longhorn Steak House Marsh Creek Country Club Ned’s Southside Kitchen Outback Steakhouse Pizzalley’s on St. George Publix Raintree Restaurant Salt Life Food Shack Sunset Grille Terra & Acqua Kesslers, Karjalas, Marchionnas Thank you to Michael from Tim’s Wine for your help and generosity Thank you to all MCWA members and Marsh Creekers for your assistance and donations The St. Augustine Record has recently been writing numerous articles about growth and impact fees in this county. Few of us think about the Linda Oakley impact growth has on our water resources, but the Orlando area wants more and more water from the St. Johns River. Our county, along with Duval and others, are concerned about the impact of water extraction on our area. Water is perhaps our most vital resource. The March Roundtable presentation was by the St. Johns River Management District (SJRMD). The Florida Water Resources Act of 1972 resulted in the creation of five regional water management districts and established a permit system for allocating water use. SJRMD represents our county and is composed of all or part of 18 counties in northeast and east-central Florida. Counties entirely in the District are Brevard, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Indian River, Nassau, Seminole, St. Johns and Volusia. In St. Johns County alone, there are over 70,000 approved residences approved for building and 4,900 homes recently built. All residential, commercial and agricultural development requires water, and SJRMD is responsible for “looking out” twenty years into the future to try to determine if water resources will be adequate to Florida’s demands. Florida receives about 54 inches of annual rainfall, and we have over 700 natural springs which are an outcrop of aquifer water; some of those springs are going dry as a result of Florida’s ever increasing demands for water. Most experts project a daily usage of 100 gallons of water per person. Due to this state’s growth (we are now the third most populous state in the country with over 20 million residents), our aquifer and groundwater sources will prove inadequate during the next 20 years. The main source of water for most of us in northeast and central Florida comes from underground aquifers. The aquifer in Florida may be from 40 to 150 feet deep. In SJC it is usually from 100 to 150 feet deep. Here in Marsh Creek, most of our irrigation wells are not that deep and are not exacting high quality aquifer water. Aquifers can be thought of as vast underground, porous rocks that hold water and allow water to move through the holes within the rock. Aquifers can be composed of different types of earthen materials, such as sand, shell and limestone. Fresh and salt water fill the various sized holes in the rock. Freshwater generally fills the uppermost part of aquifers, while salt water is present at greater depths. Many of Florida’s sinkholes result when aquifer levels decline in a certain spot. SJRMD cannot deny developments water. Their job is to project future sources of water. Their main impetus has been to promote conservation and better utilization of storm water run-off. As new develop- ments are approved, they promote re-cycling neighborhood waste water, or “gray” water. Retrofitting old developments to recycle waste water is so expensive as to not be feasible at this time. Since much of Florida’s water is used in landscaping, it is ever more important to use Florida friendly native plants and minimize excessive grass, particularly “thirsty” St. Augustine grass. There are now lawn sensors available that can detect when a lawn needs water and can turn off a planned irrigation cycle if the soil does not need water. Needless to say, we need to do all possible to conserve our most precious resource: WATER. MAY 2016 • The Marsh Creek News Journal • http://staugustine.com/marshcreek Roundtable Report 23 MAY 2016 • The Marsh Creek News Journal • http://staugustine.com/marshcreek 24