Celebrating Culinary Excellence: Victor Bock, Executive Chef at The Marbella
The Marbella at Pelican Bay is proud to spotlight Victor Bock, our esteemed Executive Chef, whose unmatched experience and passion for hospitality have elevated the dining experience for all our residents and guests.
With an impressive 42-year career in the culinary and hospitality industry, Chef Victor brings a wealth of knowledge, creativity, and leadership to our club. Since joining The Marbella in March 2022, he has been the driving force behind our innovative menus, themed dinners, Chef’s Table events, and the refined operation of our three dining venues and catering services.
Victor’s distinguished career spans some of the most respected names in hospitality, including The Hotel Hershey, Wind Creek Hospitality, Woodstock Inn & Resort, and several premier private clubs such as Brookside Country Club and Bent Creek Country Club. He has overseen culinary operations at
Preferred Vendor Expo Participants
four-diamond resorts, managed multimillion-dollar food and beverage programs, and led teams as large as 480 employees.
Beyond his culinary mastery, Victor is known for his strategic approach to cost control, his ability to revitalize food and beverage programs, and his dedication to mentoring and developing staff. His work has been featured in Bon Appétit, Gourmet Magazine, and on PBS’s Historic Chefs of America, and he has catered high-profile events such as Governor’s Inaugural Balls and large-scale food festivals. A graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, Chef Victor also holds a background in business administration and remains an active member of several professional culinary organizations, including the American Culinary Federation.
At The Marbella, we are truly fortunate to have such an accomplished and visionary leader at the helm of our culinary team. Thank you, Chef Victor, for your continued dedication to excellence and for enriching the lives of our members through your craft.
From health and fitness to transportation and more, you’ll connect with trusted providers who have a proven track record serving us. We'll see you on the West Deck from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Tuesday, October 21.
• Concierge Medical, Obayedur Khan, MD: 239.304.8902
• Podiatrist, Elana Cibula, MD: 239.261.6672
• The Cove, Jackie Gonzalez, RN: 239.593.2325
• The Marbella Executive Chef, Victor Bock: 239.593.2300
• Hair Stylist, Roberta Blaes: 239.248.1702
• Spa Services, Liz Black: 239.273.6043
• Assisting Hands Home Care: 239.593.4873
• Avow Hospice & Palliative Care, Heather Golden: 239.315.1800
• Empath Home Health: 239.513.0547
• TheKey Home Care, Patti Raco-Treamer: 239.494.1039
• Balanced Body Health & Fitness, lan: 239.850.8625
• Livewell Health, Andrew Sokolowski: 239.689.9605
• Pro Senior Fitness, Zac Lavoie: 239.860.4442
• Cap-Tel, Mickie Oliva: 954.415.9469
• Dynamix Cleaning, Carlos Marin: 239.649.0856
• Gulfshore Apothecary: 239.262.2222
• Kathy's Glass & Cleaning: 239.571.6992
• Preferred Travel of Naples, Susan Valentine: 239.261.1177
Please make dining room reservations before 10:00 AM for lunch and before 2:00 PM for dinner. Lunch seating is from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM in both the Madeira and Valencia rooms (casual attire for lunch). The dining room closes at 2:00 PM. Dinner seating is from 5:30 to 8:00 PM. Reservations are required for all dining rooms for lunch and dinner to ensure the best possible service. Please call 239.593.2331.
Meeting Schedule Update
In an effort to increase transparency and keep residents informed, we'll post committee meeting schedules. The goal is to maintain a consistent cadence, with meetings ideally occurring on the same day each month. Here’s the current lineup, open for resident attendance and input:
• Media/IT & Communications Committee
1st Wednesday of each month
9:00 AM in the Library
• Building Committee
3rd Wednesday of each month
10:00 AM in the Library
• Food & Beverage Committee
3rd Wednesday of each month
2:30 PM in the Library
• Board Meeting
4th Wednesday of each month
2:00 PM in the Barcelona Room
Meeting schedule is subject to change. Official meeting notices will be posted on the mail room bulletin board.
Introducing Neighbor Table
Mrs. Barbara Franks is inviting newer residents to join longtime neighbors—those who have lived here for two years or more—for a welcoming dinner. It’s a wonderful way for newcomers to connect, share a meal, and start building friendships within the community.
Dining Room Dress Code
Effective October 1 through May 1, jackets are required in the Napoli room. Jackets are optional in the Valencia room. Please note that long-sleeve dress collar shirts are required for gentlemen in both rooms. The Madeira room will continue to be casual attire.
BuildingLink & Hotwire Assistance
For BuildingLink questions, please stop by the Front Desk or the Executive Office, or call 877.501.7117. Please call Hotwire's 24-hour customer service line at 800.355.5668 or email pelicanbay@hotwiremail.com for tech support.
Flu Shots
Flu shots will be available on Wednesday, October 8, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and again on Wednesday, October 22, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM in the Barcelona Room. Be sure to stop by and protect yourself this flu season!
Please join us Thursday, October 23! Photos begin at 5:00 PM, followed by dinner and dancing with a DJ spinning disco favorites from 5:30 to 8:30 PM.
New class starting this November! Join us for a low-impact balance and stretch class, open to both men and women, every Tuesday and Thursday in The Cove’s Solarium. Each session is 45 minutes and begins at 3:30 PM. Sign-up sheet will be available at the class.
Palliative Care
Consider palliative care if you or a love one:
• Suffer from pain or other symptoms due to any serious illness. These may include shortness of breath, fatigue, constipation, nausea, loss of appetite, or problems with sleep.
• Experience physical or emotional pain that is not under control.
• Need help understanding your situation and coordinating your care.
For more information or a free consultation, please call Heather Golden at 239.315.1800.
Paper Bags With A Purpose
The Naples Food Pantry needs bags—especially paper bags—and The Marbella has plenty to spare! If you no longer need your dining room paper bags, please drop them off in the Art Room or, if it’s easier, at my door (#305). I’ll make sure they are delivered directly to my friends at the pantry. These bags play an important role in providing food to those in need, and since hunger is a year-round issue, I’ll be collecting them continuously. Your simple act of sharing gives each bag a second life—helping to distribute meals to our neighbors who need them most. Thank you for helping me help others. –Roberta
Meet Millie and Al Holtz
Millie and Al Holtz both grew up in New Jersey—Millie in Rutherford and Al in Plainfield. After graduating from Fordham University, Al built a distinguished career in executive and ownership roles with independent and network television stations. Millie graduated from Becker College and the Barbizon School of Fashion Modeling. Following four years in ROTC, Al was commissioned as an Army officer. In April 2024, he was honored with an invitation to join an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., where he and fellow veterans paid tribute at the memorials to those who served and sacrificed in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Millie and Al met in New York City, where it was love at first sight. They married in Spring Lake, New Jersey, and later welcomed two daughters, Megan and Tara. Their family eventually grew to include seven grandchildren. Over the years, they enjoyed summers at their Sea Girt home and cherished time at their villa in New Seabury on Cape Cod. Travel, golf, tennis, skiing, and theatre were all favorite pursuits. When it came time to retire, Millie and Al followed friends’ advice and discovered Naples, settling into a Mediterranean-style home in Pelican Bay. Later, ready to downsize, they chose The Marbella for its reputation for a carefree lifestyle, exceptional dining, and warm community. Now, happily at home here, they wish to add their gratitude to the staff, management, and Board of Directors. Not only are daily needs met with care, but forwardlooking planning continues to keep The Marbella in pristine condition—ensuring residents enjoy a lifestyle that truly rivals that of a world-class resort.
OCTOBER 2025
Liz Black offers a variety of massages, facials, spa services and manis/pedis daily (Monday-Friday). Call 239.273.6043 to make an appointment. (License #MA16149)
The Beauty Salon is open Wednesday and Thursday by appointment only (with Roberta) for all things hair. Call 239.248.1702 to make an appointment.
Taco Tuesdays (Lunch & Dinner) Beauty Salon (By 10:00 AM Building Meeting/Library 11:00 AM Chair Yoga/Cove 2:30 PM F&B Meeting/Library 4:00 PM Poker Night/Cove 5:00 PM Happy Hour Italian 12
Beauty Salon (By Appointment) 10:00 AM Commissioner Hall/ Barcelona 1:00 PM Scrabble/Cove 5:00 PM Social Hour/Barcelona
AM Chair Yoga/Cove 2:00 PM Yahtzee/Cove 5:00 PM Happy Hour 5:00 PM Halloween Party & Costume Contest
OCTOBER ACTIVITIES
Chair Yoga
Every Monday, Wednesday & Friday 11:00 AM
Cove Solarium
Perform yoga poses while seated or using a chair. RSVP in the mail room.
Bridge Every Monday 4:00 PM
The Cove
Join us for cards followed by dinner—it’s fun and only costs $1. Meet at 3:30 PM for a quick refresher or intro to the game in the Venetian Room. RSVP in the mail room, or call Roberta at 239.564.1457.
GAME NIGHT
Wednesday, October 1
4:00 PM
Barcelona Room Left-Right-Center
Bring some $1 bills. —
Friday, October 3
4:00 PM
Card Room
Five Crowns RSVP in the mail room.
Social Hour
Thursday, October 2
Thursday, October 9
Pianist Marc Meyer
Thursday, October 16
Birthday Social with Tropical Shores Steel Drums
Thursday, October 30
5:00 PM
Barcelona Room RSVP in the mail room.
Bocce Ball
Wednesday, October 8
4:00 PM
West Deck
Join us for a casual evening as friends learn, play, and observe bocce. RSVP to mike.nywening @gmail.com, whether you are playing or observing/cheering. If dining with us afterward, please call the dining room.
Balance & BP Screenings
Tuesday, October 14
9:00 AM-10:00 AM
PT Room
Get free balance and blood pressure screenings courtesy of Balanced Body Therapies
Vendor Expo
Tuesday, October 21
10:00 AM-12:00 PM
West Deck
From health and fitness to transportation and more, you’ll connect with trusted providers who have a proven track record serving us. And don’t miss Brock, The Orchid Guy—bring your vessels and cash to take home something beautiful!
Trivia Night
Wednesday, October 22
5:00 PM
Barcelona Room RSVP to ron599@aol.com.
Homecoming Night Party
Thursday, October 23
5:00-8:30 PM
Dining Room
If you plan on attending an event or fitness class, it is essential that you RSVP in the mail room. Thank you!
Poker Night
Wednesday, October 15
4:00 PM
Barcelona Room RSVP in the mail room.
Book Club
Friday, October 17 12:00 PM
Dining Room
The Book Club meets for lunch and discussion. We will discuss Switchboard Soldiers by Jennifer Chiaverini this month. RSVP to the Dining Room at 239.593.2331. PLEASE RSVP
Join us for a semi-formal featuring a Best Dressed Contest to see who will be crowned the evening’s Homecoming King and Queen. Photos begin at 5:00 PM, followed by dinner and dancing with a DJ spinning disco favorites from 5:30 to 8:30 PM.
Community Conversations
Thursday, October 30
10:00 AM
Barcelona Room
County Commissioner Hall discusses current events and local happenings.
Donʻt forget the Valencia Room is open for lunch daily!
Resident Birthdays
Carolyn Tate – 10/2
Barbara Katz – 10/7
Dick Jensen – 10/12
Roberta Jensen – 10/14
Mort Corn – 10/18
Peter Kiley – 10/20
Ed Curtis – 10/23
Linda Mullen – 10/27
Charley Horton – 10/28
Staff Birthdays
Jaidy Fernandez-Rodriguez – 10/1
Yensi Morales Arauz – 10/3
Gary Vincent – 10/6
Liudmilla Vasquez – 10/10
Elizabeth Pena – 10/12
Carmen Randall – 10/15
Shane GilChrist – 10/16
Amanda Rivez Martinez – 10/18
Karen White – 10/28
Jorge Diaz – 10/31
Staff Anniversaries
Loretta Alejandro – 25 Years
Klara Ivanaj – 25 Years
Maria Pena – 19 Years
Hector Caro – 17 Years
Joel Grieff – 11 Years
Jennifer Grissom – 7 Years
Sandra McDaries – 4 Years
Michael Patterson – 3 Years
Oscar Arevalo – 2 Years
Tammy McDonald – 2 Years
Jenasia Odney – 2 Years
If you would like to sponsor or co-sponsor a Birthday Social, please contact Eda or Darci for details at least a month in advance—they would be happy to assist!
(1) Joe & Danny. (2) Former resident Phyllis & Mana.
(3) The Lucinis and Asiels enjoying social entertainment.
2 Bedrooms, 2½ Baths, Den 2,555 Square Feet Under Air 3,042 Total Square Feet
$4,299,000 Scan to Learn More
Residence #301
2 Bedrooms, 3 Baths, Den 2,555 Square Feet Under Air 3,042 Total Square Feet
$3,679,000
Residence #501
2 Bedrooms, 3 Baths, Den 2,555 Square Feet Under Air 3,042 Total Square Feet
$3,499,000 Scan to Learn More
The Marbella at Pelican Bay Realty exclusively markets, promotes, and sells The Marbella at Pelican Bay’s luxury condominiums. We deliver a cohesive message to the Southwest Florida real estate market and ensure your home stands out amongst the ever-expanding senior living communities available. Contact Mark to learn more. Mark Maran
