The Box Office will be open 90 minutes prior to show, only for theater/concert events. All dance tickets must be purchased in advance. Tickets can be purchased by phone, in person at the Box Office, or online at www.sl4recdistrict.com.
Dear Residents,
Welcome to February at Sunrise Lakes Phase 4! While February may be the shortest month of the year, it is certainly full of excitement, connection, and memorable moments here in our community. This month’s calendar is packed with wonderful entertainment, social gatherings, and engaging activities. Whether you enjoy live music, dancing, games, creative activities, or simply spending time with friends, there is truly something for everyone. Enjoy the vibrant spirit here that makes Sunrise Lakes Phase 4 such a special place to live.
February 7 – Edward Twins | 7pm
Kick off the month with an entertaining evening featuring the Edward Twins. Known for their lively performances, humor, and great music, this show promises energy, laughter, and a fantastic night out.
February 8 – Super Bowl Party | 5pm
Join us as we gather to watch the big game together. Enjoy the excitement of Super Bowl Sunday while socializing with friends and neighbors. Hot dogs and chips will be served, making this a fun and casual event you won’t want to miss.
February 12 – Movie Day: How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days | 1pm & 6pm
Sit back, relax, and enjoy this classic romantic comedy on the big screen. With two convenient showtimes, you can choose the afternoon or evening showing and enjoy a cozy movie experience with fellow residents.
February 13 – Romance in Salsa | 7pm | Theater
Don’t miss this huge and exciting show featuring Charlie Aponte and Melina Almodóvar. Romance in Salsa promises an unforgettable evening filled with passion, rhythm, and incredible performances. This spectacular show will take place in the theater and is sure to be a highlight of the month.
February 14 – Sweetheart Ball | 7pm
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a special evening of music, dancing, and romance. Marian and The Poppy Band will provide the perfect soundtrack for a night filled with joy, laughter, and great company. Whether you come with a partner or friends, it’s sure to be a memorable celebration.
February 15 – Pool Party | 3–5pm
Spend a relaxing afternoon by the pool enjoying music, sunshine, and good conversation. This poolside gathering is the perfect way to unwind and enjoy time with neighbors. Please note that this event is weather permitting.
February 17 – Karaoke Night | 6pm
Take the stage or cheer on your fellow residents during Karaoke Night. Presented by Sound of Stardom, this fun- filled evening is always a crowd favorite and guaranteed to bring plenty of laughs and great performances.
February 19 – Arts & Crafts | 1pm
Get creative and join us for an arts and crafts session where participants will create a Valentine-themed photo frame. This hands-on activity is perfect for all skill levels and offers a wonderful keepsake to take home or share with a loved one.
February 19 – Music Bingo | 6pm
Enjoy this fun twist on traditional bingo! Music Bingo is an interactive event that combines great music, friendly competition, and lots of laughs, making it a resident favorite. Presented by Sound of Stardom.
February 21 – Baile de Los Enamorados | 6pm
Experience the lively rhythms and vibrant energy of Vallenato music during our Baile Latino night. Jose Victor and his band will bring irresistible beats that are sure to get everyone up and dancing.
February 22 – Dueling Pianos | 7pm
Get ready for a high-energy and interactive musical experience. Dueling Pianos features two talented pianists taking audience requests, encouraging sing-alongs, and creating a night of nonstop entertainment.
February 24 – Muffin Day | 12pm
Stop by and enjoy a delicious muffin during this sponsored event. It’s a sweet way to brighten your day and connect with neighbors.
February 26 – Bunco | 11:30pm
Join us for a friendly game of Bunco, perfect for both beginners and experienced players. Light snacks will be provided, and it’s always a great opportunity to socialize and have fun.
February 26 – Movie Day: Hamilton | 1pm & 6pm
Enjoy the acclaimed musical Hamilton on the big screen. With two showtimes available, you won’t want to miss this powerful and entertaining performance.
February 28 – N2 Nation | 7pm
End the month on a high note with an unforgettable evening of Motown classics. N2 Nation Motown will have you singing along, dancing, and celebrating timeless hits.
February is Black History Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the rich history, culture, and contributions of African Americans who have helped shape our nation. Throughout this month, we honor the achievements, resilience, and lasting impact of Black leaders, artists, innovators, and everyday heroes.
Nicolau/Social Activities Director
Daily Exercises & Activities
Sunrise Lakes Phase 4 Recreation District offers a variety of exercise classes designed for every fitness level and lifestyle. Just starting out or looking to push your limits? Our welcoming environment and expert instructors make it easy to stay motivated, inspired, and energized!
10am
Club Social 6:30pm
Mat Yoga 11am
Aerobics
Watchers 9am & 10:30am
(45min)
REC BOARD NEWS
Hello Friends and Neighbors,
After reading January’s REC BOARD NEWS article by Chairperson Yvonne Hepler and considering my active involvement as the Rec District and Rec Association Treasurer, I would like to clarify further the success we have had with the collection of late membership fees. It’s important to share because so many of us care deeply about the wellbeing of our community.
Our recreation center is operating on a solid financial foundation. We have managed expenses responsibly and built healthy reserves for facility maintenance—without requiring new assessments or increasing monthly payments for the past five years. Based on current projections, we expect this stability to continue for at least the next three years, and we are currently studying further reductions in the membership fee.
This has been possible because we have taken a careful, disciplined approach to costs across all operations. For recreational activities, we ensure that members’ payments fully cover the expenses involved.
We have also taken a thoughtful approach to handling delinquent accounts. When evaluating collection methods, we considered not only the association’s costs but also the financial burden and personal challenges faced by families who fall behind.
This led us to transition from using attorneys to working with a collection agency. Previously, our attorney fees were decreasing our net returns; we were fortunate to contract with Axela, a debt collection agency with offices in 26 States, that provided us with fixed costs, which are not settled until the debt is collected. Because our debts tend to be small to medium-sized, agencies like Axela are better equipped to manage them efficiently. They handle large volumes on small margins, work with a wide range of debtor situations, comply with FDCPA and State regulations, and recover funds quickly—often without involving the courts. Importantly, the association receives the full amount owed at zero cost, while debtors pay the agency’s fees.
In contrast, the attorney-based process was slower, more expensive, and often moved directly toward foreclosure. One example is a resident widow who owed approximately $12,000 but ultimately paid nearly $42,000 in legal fees.
Since partnering with Axela, we have recovered $250,000 over 30 months—again, at zero cost to the association and without a single foreclosure. While foreclosure remains an option for the future, if necessary, it has not been required under this system.
Through these efforts, we have strengthened our reserves, avoided special assessments, and kept member payments steady. This is the true picture of our association’s financial health, and it reflects the commitment we all share to responsible stewardship and community stability.
JORGE DEL PINO Treasurer
YVONNE HEPLER CHAIRPERSON GLENN STRICKLIN VICE-CHAIR CHARLIE VENTICINQUE SECRETARY
JORGE DEL PINO TREASURER
LUIS DILONE BOARD SUPERVISOR
CECILIA CARRANZA BOARD SUPERVISOR YVONNEHEPLER
Happy 100th Birthday! 2026 marks a milestone of both progress and persistence in the U.S., the 100th anniversary of federal recognition for Black Americans. What began as a singular week of learning and recognition called Negro History Week in 1926 has grown into an overall cultural observance of Black History throughout the month of February.
The architect of this movement was Dr. Carter G. Woodson. As the son of formerly enslaved parents, Dr. Woodson understood that denying people of their history denies them of their humanity. “Those who have no record of what their forebears have accomplished lose the inspiration which comes from the teaching of biography and history,” he wrote. To combat that, he launched Negro History Week (NHW) to coincide with the February birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, the two figures whom he felt were symbolically tied to African American freedom. His goal was simple but ambitious: to integrate Black history into the educational curriculum, public libraries, local churches, and communities at large across the nation. He did not design the week to be a symbolic gesture; instead, it was meant to be a permanent shift in how America viewed and understood itself. For 40 years, educators embraced it, churches amplified it, and civic groups built programming around it. In the 1960s, as the Civil Rights Movement emerged, NHW became more reflective of the urgency of a nation grappling with its conscience.
Black History Month is often associated with familiar icons - Martin Luther King, Jr, Rosa Parks, Malcolm X, Harriet Tubman - yet the deeper intention is about uncovering thousands of stories once ignored: scientists, entrepreneurs, artists, academics, inventors, policy leaders, soldiers, and everyday citizens who shaped the nation. This Black History Month is not simply a date on the calendar; it is a powerful reminder to recognize the generations who fought for inclusion in the historical record, even when the nation resisted acknowledging their humanity.
February: The Last Month
February is unique as the shortest month, originally tied to Roman purification rituals (named from Latin “Februa”), can sometimes lack a full moon, and features “Leap Day” (Feb 29th), making babies “Leapers” born about one in 1,461 times, while also being Black History Month and home to Valentine’s Day and Groundhog Day
Origins & Name
Purification: The name comes from the Latin word Februa, meaning “purification,” referring to an ancient Roman festival of cleansing held mid-month.
Last Month Added: January and February were the last two months added to the early Roman calendar, making February the last month initially.
Old English Name: It was once called Solmonath, meaning “mud month,” according to Old Farmer’s Almanac.
Calendar & Time
Shortest Month: It’s the only month with fewer than 30 days, typically 28, gaining an extra day (29) in a leap year to sync with Earth’s orbit.
No Full Moon: February is the only month that can pass without a full moon, notes Safeco.
Leap Day Babies: People born on February 29 are called “Leapers,” celebrating roughly every four years, say Flowerama Waterloo.
Celebrations & Observances
Black History Month: Observed in the U.S., Canada, and U.K., honoring Black history and achievements.
Valentine’s Day: Celebrated on the 14th, a day for love and affection.
Groundhog Day: February 2nd tradition where a groundhog predicts more winter or an early spring.
Mardi Gras: “Fat Tuesday,” the final feast day before Lent begins, often falls in February.
Although February is a short month, we have plenty to keep us busy in the new year. Both the Men’s and Women’s Locker Rooms have been refreshed, and we’re very pleased with how they turned out.
Our fitness center is another focus. We try to fix equipment when we can, but so often these manufacturers no longer exist. Or parts are very hard to get. We replaced an old treadmill with a new Landice model and we replaced one of our aging rowing machines with a sleek modern model. So far, the feedback on the new rower is very positive.
At the front entrance of the main Clubhouse, we replaced the automatic door openers for ENTRY and EXIT. Residents will appreciate the improved ability to enter and exit the building.
Future projects include planting shrubs around the chain link fence behind the Clubhouse, helping to make that area more attractive. We’re also looking at upgrading the outdoor seating areas outside of the Golf office, under the trees so Residents and Guests can have a more enjoyable stay.
One “Housekeeping” item, we know people love to be on their phones, having conversations with family and friends, checking their social media etc.. Sometimes it can be very disruptive and annoying to others when these conversations are on speaker phone or folks aren’t using ear buds or ear phones. Sounds tend to echo off the hard, smooth surfaces in the Clubhouse. We ask that while using your cell phone in the Clubhouse you keep the volume down to a reasonable level, use ear phones, and be respectful of others.
We hope Residents enjoy the complimentary Coffee/Water Hospitality Station and enjoy the muffins, Danish, and donuts we provide once a month. Check our calendar of events to see what we’re offering this month.
CLUBS
BILLIARD CLUB
Dennis Bader (516) 662-9315
Mon & Wed 6:30pm
CLUB LATINO
Alicia Epps (305) 951-8469
See calendar
FORE GOLF CLUB
Gary Krantz
First Wed 9:30am
GROUPS
GAME NIGHT GROUP
David Pope (954) 382-8871
1st & 3rd Wed 6:30pm
MINYAN CLUB
Doug Bengels (954) 729-3576
David Pope (954) 382-8871
Saturdays 9:30am
MULTI-CULTURAL ACTIVITIES CLUB
Carolyn Johnson (267) 735-1000
MUSIC CLUB
Glenn Stricklin (954) 708-7995
Dennis Bader (516) 662-9315
Sundays 6pm
SENIOR
HEALTH NEWS
What Exercises Can Help You Prevent a Fall?
Anyone of any age or ability can get stronger and improve their balance. And staying strong and having good balance are especially important for older adults. Why? Because staying strong and practicing balance skills are critical to managing your fall risk.
The stronger your legs, the better your balance, and the less chance you will fall or need a medical alert system with fall detection. If you do experience a fall, you are less likely to experience an injury. Research shows that certain exercises are better for older adults to improve strength and balance.1 These exercises you can do daily, as part of your routine. The best part is they can be done anywhere, anytime, any place.
What are the exercises that older adults can do to help with strength and balance?
First, make sure you are doing the exercises safely and correctly. You may want to work with a physical therapist to choose and teach the best exercises for you. For best results, the exercises should feel somewhat challenging. Below are exercise suggestions to help you strengthen your leg muscles and improve your balance. It is always a good idea to stand near something sturdy to hold on to, such as a kitchen counter, and have a chair nearby to sit and rest.
Exercises good for leg strength:
Sit to Stand From A Chair • Standing Heel Raises • Lunges
Exercises good for improving balance:
Standing on one leg • Side Stepping
Backwards Walking
Start by doing each exercise five to 10 times. Take a short rest (one minute or less) in between exercises. Once you have completed the exercises you can be done or repeat the sequence. Work up to doing each exercise 10 times, twice a day.
Some muscle soreness is normal, your body is telling you those muscles worked. This is a normal response to challenging exercise. But soreness should not limit your ability to do your daily activities. If it does, this means you may have done too much. Progressing the number of times you do each exercise slowly, and checking how you feel the next day will help you manage muscle soreness. When starting a new balance exercise, hold on with two hands. When you feel confident in your balance, try holding on lightly with a few fingertips on each hand. Then use only one hand. As your balance skills improve, and you feel steady, you may be able to progress to using no hands.
Is walking a good exercise for strength and balance?
Walking is a great form of exercise with many benefits, but it does not help your legs get stronger unless you are walking up and down hills or stairs. Older adults should combine a strength and balance program with a walking program for the greatest protection against a fall. You should plan on working up to a 30-minute walk, three times a week. When that gets easy, and you want a new challenge, you can walk faster for part of your walk. If you use a walker or cane, make sure to use it when you walk for exercise. A physical therapist can help you determine the best walker or cane for you if you are unsure which to use.
How do I start adding strength and balance exercise into my routine?
A good plan is to alternate exercise days with walking days. On Monday you would do the exercises, Tuesday a walk (ideally 10-30 minutes) and so on. You will want to start small and build your habits gradually. Writing down a plan and goals for exercise can be helpful for some people. Exercise at a time of day and in a place you enjoy and are the most motivated to move.
Bring that special someone to one of the most popular events of the year. Come and enjoy a memorable evening of dining and dancing to great music by Marian & The Poppy Band!
Saturday, Feb. 14 • 7pm / $30pp Presented in the Copa Ballroom
Saturday, Mar. 7 • 7pm / $25pp
Presented in the Epic Theater
Get ready to party with Florida’s favorite Jimmy Buffett Tribute Show!
The Caribbean Chillers are a dynamic Florida-based Jimmy Buffett Tribute Band that brings you the SIGHTS and SOUNDS, and the FUN of a real Jimmy Buffett Concert! Close your eyes and you’ll be transported to that “Magical Musical Place” Jimmy called Margaritaville! The Chillers perform Jimmy’s songs just like he does, and Jason looks, sings, and plays just like Jimmy!
Hola Amigos y Veci y Vecinos nos
Tras leer el artículo de enero de NOTICIAS DE LA JUNTA DE RECREACIÓN, escrito por la presidenta Yvonne Hepler, y considerando mi activa participación como tesorera del Distrito de Recreación y de la Asociación de Recreación, quisiera aclarar el éxito que hemos tenido con el cobro de las cuotas de membresía atrasadas. Es importante compartir esto porque a muchos de nosotros nos preocupa profundamente el bienestar de nuestra comunidad.
Nuestro centro recreativo opera sobre una base financiera sólida. Hemos gestionado los gastos de forma responsable y acumulado importantes reservas para el mantenimiento de las instalaciones, sin requerir nuevas cuotas ni aumentar los pagos mensuales durante los últimos cinco años. Según las proyecciones actuales, esperamos que esta estabilidad se mantenga durante al menos los próximos tres años, y actualmente estamos estudiando nuevas reducciones en la cuota de membresía.
Esto ha sido posible gracias a que hemos adoptado un enfoque cuidadoso y disciplinado en la gestión de costos en todas las operaciones. En el caso de las actividades recreativas, nos aseguramos de que los pagos de los miembros cubran completamente los gastos.
También hemos adoptado un enfoque cuidadoso en la gestión de las cuentas morosas. Al evaluar los métodos de cobro, consideramos no solo los costos de la asociación, sino también la carga financiera y los desafíos personales que enfrentan las familias que se atrasan en sus pagos.
Esto nos llevó a pasar de usar abogados a trabajar con una agencia de cobranza. Anteriormente, nuestros honorarios de abogados reducían nuestra rentabilidad neta; tuvimos la suerte de contratar a Axela, una agencia de cobranza con oficinas en 26 estados, que nos proporcionó costos fijos, que no se liquidan hasta que se cobra la deuda. Dado que nuestras deudas suelen ser pequeñas y medianas, agencias como Axela están mejor preparadas para gestionarlas eficientemente. Manejan grandes volúmenes con márgenes reducidos, trabajan con una amplia gama de situaciones de deudores, cumplen con la FDCPA y las regulaciones estatales, y recuperan los fondos rápidamente, a menudo sin recurrir a los tribunales. Es importante destacar que la asociación recibe el monto total adeudado sin costo alguno, mientras que los deudores pagan los honorarios de la agencia.
En cambio, el proceso con abogados era más lento, más costoso y, a menudo, derivaba directamente en una ejecución hipotecaria. Un ejemplo es el de una viuda residente que debía aproximadamente $12,000, pero finalmente pagó casi $42,000 en honorarios legales.
Desde nuestra colaboración con Axela, hemos recuperado $250,000 en 30 meses, nuevamente sin costo alguno para la asociación y sin una sola ejecución hipotecaria. Si bien la ejecución hipotecaria sigue siendo una opción para el futuro, de ser necesaria, no ha sido requerida bajo este sistema.
Gracias a estos esfuerzos, hemos fortalecido nuestras reservas, evitado cuotas extraordinarias y mantenido estables los pagos de los miembros. Esta es la verdadera imagen de la salud financiera de nuestra asociación y refleja el compromiso que todos compartimos con la administración responsable y la estabilidad de la comunidad.
Como recordatorio, ahora ofrecemos transporte a muchos de los eventos que ocurren en la casa club. Llame a la officina para registrarsey obtener más información.
Jorge del Pino del Pino
sábado febrero 21 • 6pm / $25pp
Presentado en el salón de baile Copa
Larry Brendler and Terry Cooper have combined their talents to put together a powerful show – Dueling Pianos. These two men sing every kind of music imaginable, from Sinatra to Santana, from Soul to Salsa, and Broadway to high energy pop. You name it, they play it. But these guys just don’t play, they work the audience into a sing-along frenzy, to where everyone’s dancing in the isles. Truthfully, it’s all about fun and great music, and no one does it better. It’s always spontaneous, and exuberant!
Sunday, Feb. 22 • 7pm / $25pp
Presented in the Epic Theater
N2Nation is an amazing group of musicians, singers, and entertainers who perform ballads and powerful show-stopping dance hits with all the moves to match. Their show sizzles with great selections from Motown, R&B, Pop, and Top 40.
Saturday, Feb. 28 • 7pm / $25pp
Presented in the Epic Theater
After show Motown party in the Copa Ballroom
Come and celebrate St. Patty’s day, even if you’re not from the Emerald Isle. Enjoy delicious food and cold beer –followed by a rousing show from authentic Irish dancers. Then dance to live music. And don’t forget to wear something green!
Saturday, Mar. 14
7pm / $25pp
Presented in the Copa Ballroom
Back by popular demand, BEE GEES NOW is a master ful musical sojourn through the BeeGees songbook of beautiful love ballads and dance fever hits that made them a musical sensation Touring the globe to standing ovations ever ywhere, this show is considered the most dynamic, interactive and totally entertaining tribute to the kings of disco
