eagle eagle
Let me begin by saying how much I am looking forward to serving you, the residents of Fairways, to the best of my ability.”
Happy New Year FROM YOUR FHAOI PRESIDENT
Isit here beginning to type this, my first article for the Eagle, and I am filled with much to say and not knowing where to begin. I’m not surprised by this as my mind is full of ideas. But let me begin by saying how much I am looking forward to serving you, the residents of Fairways, to the best of my ability. I may stumble here or there, but we are, after all, human. Rest assured though, I will quickly stand back up and continue forward.
I know I have some big shoes to fill from Mark Kornmann. I also learned a lot from him and will work to make the transition with the new board as seamless as possible.
I am confident that we have a great board moving into 2025. We want to work together to make communications an even bigger part of FHAOI. I do not want to hear residents say they didn’t know about an activity or that they were never told about this or that. Having been the Director of Communications,
I know firsthand the frustration of putting information on the TVs and Facebook and in the Eagle and still hear people say they aren’t aware of all the things happening in this community of Fairways. We have some ideas, but if any of you have ideas, I ask you to give me a call and share them.
I intend to work with Priscilla and Hometown America more closely and in a spirit of goodwill. I will begin monthly meetings with Priscilla again to keep her fully informed of the issues we see around the park. Realizing that she has a budget to work with, when I meet with Priscilla, we will discuss issues that have been brought to my attention by you, our residents. No, I don’t expect to wave a magic wand and have everything improve overnight; it will be an ongoing process that I won’t give up on.
Our new Director of Social Activities, Melanie Klements, is planning many of your favorite events as well as adding new ones
Fairways First PET PARADE a
Success!
by Lisbeth Echeandia
Thank you to everyone who joined the Pet Parade! In addition to the dog owners who costumed up and joined the parade, we had several spectators including some residents with their grandchildren, which made it extra special! Jo Lynn Haussman spearheaded the event, and our appreciation goes to her and to the other volunteers who helped with organizing the event. Special thanks to Santa – Ralph Meyer – who was excellent and made sure it was a great time for everyone. Steve Buyea took photos of pets and the people who love them with Santa, and as expected they were all amazing! Thank you to the judges, Carla Gentry, Patti Liapakis and Ginny and Steve Reinhardt. Good job!
All the dogs got along and were well-mannered and a delight! It was truly a fun event.
FHAOI PRESIDENT
for 2025. We will continue collaborating with sponsors for most events so we can keep ticket prices affordable for all.
We look forward to sharing these with you next month. The first board meeting for 2025 will be on Thursday, January 9 at 7 pm at the Masters. Please plan to join and meet your new FHAOI board members.
Our first activity will be a Free Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, January 25 from 8-10:30 am at the Masters. Breakfast will be served by your new board. We hope to see a big crowd.
FHAOI’s Festive Dinner and Dance
The FHAOI once again pulled out all the stops for the annual Christmas Dinner and Dance with the Masters’ tables decorated to the nines with beautiful centerpieces and gold table runners and the beautiful Christmas tree. The event was sold out and we still had a few people scrambling for last-minute tickets at the door. The catered turkey dinner was delicious and hardly a scrap of food was left over. People still found room for dessert – of course – and a wonderful time was enjoyed by all.
From the first beat of the band, the dance floor was already beginning to fill up. There was glitz and glitter and lots of beautiful Christmas attire everywhere accompanied with laughter, love and Holiday Cheer!
The Cash Machine was one of the highlights of the night with Christine Sizemore seizing $140!
As usual, the FHAOI Annual Christmas Dinner and Dance is a must. There is no better way to usher in the Holiday Season.
FHAOI Board Members
EMAIL: FHAOIBOARD @gmail.com
Cathy Nanfeldt President nanfeldt25@gmail.com 407-704-0423
Tom David Vice President trdavid@buffalo.edu 315-568-1433
Renay Johnson Treasurer renaybrad@aol.com 407-538-0128
Nancy Lang Secretary ilovejack2476@yahoo.com 407-506-2230
Melanie Klements Director of Social Activities mklements18@gmail.com 407-649-0880
Vicki Heath Director-at-Large Vheath5675@gmail.com 601-917-1335
Dixie LoCicero Director of Communications DixieL622@gmail.com 407-721-9444
New England/Canada Club Roundup
Debbie Yeagley welcomed everyone with door prize tickets and Vice-President Paul DeRoo sold share the wealth tickets.
Pastor Ron Griffin opened the meeting with a blessing and President Fran Archibald led the Pledge of Allegiance and asked for a moment of silence for friends and families who could not be present. A wonderful Christmas buffet was enjoyed by 42 club members and friends, with DJ John playing Christmas carols during dinner.
Debbie Yeagley and Paul DeRoo distributed the share the wealth to four winners and 22 door prizes – all donated – were given out. Congratulations to Carol Dammer who won the raffle for the handmade lighted Christmas wreath. Everyone received a Christmas
gift from Fran Archibald and the Birthdays of Winne Desfosses, Fran Archibald, Shirley Bertia and Lorraine Schneider were celebrated. The group gathered to sign a Christmas card for every veteran at the VA Hospital and the cards were delivered to the VA by Fairways Veterans Group Commander, Edwin Ramirez.
Guests enjoyed playing music Bingo – thank you DJ Johnny –for scratch card prizes. Thanks to Debbie, Claire and Tom Carter for helping set up tables and chairs for the event and thank you to everyone who helped with the cleanup, especially Paul DeRoo and John Tognacci who stayed until the very end!
Best wishes for a Happy New Year to all!
A Happy and Healthy New Year to All Fairways Residents From Your Rock ‘n Roll Club!
by Mike Scanlon, Rock ‘n Roll Club president
The 2024 Rock n Roll Club Board voted to continue the Clubs’ many traditions for 2025, including Live Bands, Themed Dances, Dance on the fourth Saturday of every month, Share the Wealth at the Dance, Membership at $5 per year. Tickets $5. members, $7. non-members. The only change is that the Club will not be taking a vacation this year and will have a Dance every month in 2025.
The Rock n Roll Board for 2025 is:
• Mike Scanlon – President
• Cindy McGrath – Vice President
• Paul DeRoo - Treasurer
• Judy Michalski – Secretary
We also wanted to increase the membership, which we did, going from 184 to 205 members. We also wanted to have higher attendance at dances and in 2024 our
lowest number was the July 27th dance at 80 - where weather played a big part with heavy rains and wind - and the highest was January 27th at 182, the average for the year was 118.
The high point for all the dances was the Christmas Dance on December 14th. We followed the 2023 board’s guidelines, putting aside at least $2,000 for operating funds for 2025 and gave away over $2,000 in Gift Cards and two Flat Screen TV’s. Tickets for the Dance were FREE to all members and gave non-members the opportunity to buy a 2025 membership and get a free ticket to the Dance.
And the highlight of the year was the Christmas Toy Drive, and I’ve written a separate piece about that.
Our sincere thanks to all the volunteers who helped make it all happen! Without them there wouldn’t be the Rock n Roll Club.
Thank you to:
• Rosemary and John Wozencroft
• Claire and Tom Carter
• Mike & Lynn Englehart
• Suzanne Hammons
• Bonnie Johnson
• Viv Scott
• Linda Kucharski
• Letizia and Edwin Ramirez
• Jim McGrath
• Adam and Cathy Scheblein
• Bill Michalski
• Nancey Videgar
• Libby and Rich Williams
If you’re not yet a member of the Rock n Roll Club and would like to, and enjoy all the dances and live bands, you’ll have the opportunity on Ticket Tuesday on January 21st and at the dance on January 25th. The theme is White Night and the band will be Tage Duo Band.
A note to all of you who enjoy our dances: At all of our Rock n Roll Club Dances, removing of Center
FHAOI Treasurer’s Report
Bocce Ball Updates
Happy New Year to All
Thank you to all those who worked on the courts for the winter tournament. We appreciate you!
The Winter Tournament is scheduled to begin the week of January 12, 2025. Teams must be signed up by January 10, 2025. Contact Gary if you have not signed up to play. A signup sheet is posted at the courts or call Gary at 304-671-7569. New player training, Saturday, January 4th, noon-3:00 p.m. at the Bocce courts.
The tournament is for nine weeks; each team playing once a week and wins and losses recorded for a playoff the following week. We will have more teams making the playoffs this year for week ten.
Look forward to seeing you there!
HTA Social Activities Director Update
Happy New Year!
In anticipation of 2025, your Hometown America activities team is working to host fun events throughout the year.
All club leaders (at least one from every organized Fairways group) are invited to a meeting, January 7 at the Masters at 6:30 p.m.
Information regarding the use of Hometown facilities will be distributed and we will be available to answer any questions about using any of the clubhouses.
January 19, we will host our Winter wine and cheese from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Masters. Some wine and snacks will be provided. Please feel free to bring your favorite wine to share. Snacks are always welcome.
If you would like to reserve any space at the clubhouses, please email (only) your request to Bmishloney@Hometownamerica.com. Please include the name, phone number, email, date, time and name of event.
February is Resident Appreciation Month. Throughout the month, residents should watch for special events.
The annual Hometown America Golf Tournament will be Wednesday, February 26. Sign-up sheets will be available in the Pro Shop starting January 20. Remember to sign up early as spaces fill up quick. More information on the tournament will be in the February Eagle.
FAIRWAYS COURTESY VAN
Tim and Karen Barber were nominated by Priscilla as Hometown America announced that Tim and Karen Barber have been named national “Hometown Heroes” and were honored at the annual holiday luncheon by Priscilla Herrick, community manager. “This is great recognition for our Fairways community across all Hometown communities,” Priscilla said. Tim and Karen lead the FHAOI Safety committee as well as volunteer for activities throughout the community.
6 Bulletin Board
INDOOR CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT
$5/person - Prizes for 1st, 2nd & 3rd places
Sign ups on Sunday & Monday January 5 & 6 at Masters 6-8 pm
TOURNAMENT DATES:
Friday, January 10, 6-10 pm
Saturday, January 11, 10 am-4 pm
Sunday, January 12, 10 am-6 pm
CALL KEVIN CURRAN
718-775-4458
kevin@collegiate.us.com
Savage Hot Dogs
Saturday, January 18
Noon to 5:00 p.m.
The Westchester Parking Lot
Many kinds of medical equipment available for loan to Fairways residents. No charge!
Equipment includes wheelchairs, walkers, canes, shower chairs and more!
Helping Hands is managed by Cricket O’Connell under the direction of the FHAOI Board.
Call or text Cricket at: 413-262-1196
Helping Hands welcomes donations of medical equipment. Thank you!
EAGLE DEADLINES!
Advertising: 10th of the month prior to publication
Club/Organization: Reports, Scores and News –15th of the month prior to publication
Letters to the Editor, Original Articles: 15th of the month prior to publication
Have a topic you would like us to cover in the Eagle or want your birthday or anniversary included in the Celebrations page?
Call editor Lisbeth Echeandia at 407-271-7906 or email: fairwayseaglecontent@gmail.com
EAGLE • JANUARY 2025
Hosted by the FHAOI and your delicious breakfast will be served by the 2025 FHAOI Board Members COME ENJOY A
FREE PANCAKE BREAKFAST!
Saturday, January 25
8:00 am - 10:30 am At the Masters
SATURDAY, JANUARY 11 th
Second SATURDAY at Masters 6:30-9:30 pm
KJ Steve Milford • Tickets only $2 bucks For Info Call: BILL BUTLER 407-461-4155
Weekly BIBLE STUDY for Couples & Singles
Starting Thursday, January 16th at 5:30 Supper will be provided for this kick-off Meeting
14652 Pebble Beach Blvd. PLEASE RSVP: Kevin & Teresa ONeil 720-591-3475
8 Pet Corner
JJ
Loved by Diane, JJ is an English labrador bred by Diane’s daughter Lynn, and many of his brothers and sisters work as therapy and service dogs as far away as Texas. Two of his siblings, sister Kona and brother Pierce, are service dogs for St. Lucie County and work with the St. Lucie County Fire Department. JJ’s family members are service and therapy dogs for veterans – working with the Vets Helping Heroes organization based in Boca Raton – are companions for children and adults with high spectrum autism and others are trained to detect grand mal seizures and so much more.
JJ is just 9 months old and will grow up to be about 90 lbs. English labradors are stocky and have a barrel chest and a thick neck, as compared to American labradors which are taller, have longer legs and a narrower head and longer muzzle.
“JJ is very protective of me,” says Diane, “he loves to play and is my constant companion.”
Mary Lee and the Warwick Hills Dog Bench
LWhen Mary Lee moved to Fairways in 1990 in her home overlooking the pond, she noticed how many people were walking their dogs there and thought it would be a fun idea to put up a ‘Treat Station’ for the dogs! Mary Lee doesn’t have a dog, but really enjoys those she sees from her porch. Some changes had to be made to the original design as racoons are resourceful and really enjoyed the treats. Problem solved with the Treat Chest which racoon hands haven’t figured out how to open. “I change the decorations I have on the bench regularly,” says ML “and make sure the treat jars are always kept filled. The dogs that come here regularly know there are treats there, and make sure their owners take them there quickly. And it has been nice that some of the dog owners have even left some cash for me so that they can be sure I keep those high-quality treats coming!
Fairways dog owners thank Mary Lee for her thoughtfulness!
Skye
Skye is loved by Audrey – although her husband Larry was the original ‘owner,’ – but Skye decided Audrey was his person. “He was just eight weeks old when we got him,” says Audrey and he was already housetrained! He is what is known as a ‘field lab’ – an American labrador - and at ten years old weighs in at around 65 pounds.”
Skye graduated with honors from his obedience classes, has reliable recall – which means that when he’s called it’s 99.99% sure that he’ll respond quickly and enthusiastically - and he loves, loves his assortment of balls and will play for as long as you let him.
“Skye is a total sweetheart,” says Audrey “a
LACF Celebrate the Holidays!
On the evening of Thursday December 19, 2024, the Latin America Club of Fairways held its Annual Christmas Party for Members and their guests. The event was a celebration of gratitude and unity.
We celebrated all cultures with an emphasis on Hispanic Heritage. Our policy is one of collectiveness where everyone is welcome and confirmed. We enjoyed the sounds provided by our DJ Sammy, who never disappoints, even when playing Santa Claus.
The tables were dressed in white linen with the chairs also covered and wrapped in emerald green sashes with silver clasps and the tables had festive Christmas balloons. The tables with Share the Wealth gave three 25-dollar prizes. Then there was a $5 raffle for several items: a professional cooking pot, Dior purse and several vases filled with sweets and gifts. There was a gift exchange where 25 gifts were exchanged. We concluded the raffles by selecting one winner for the 58-inch TV. Congratulations to Victor Alvarado for the win!
The evening included a generous meal of several rice dishes, pasta salads, turkey, chicken, ham, sides, and enough desserts to even satisfy Santa. We also celebrated the December birthdays with a Tres Leches cake donated by a generous member. And of course, there was dancing to the Christmas songs with everyone enjoying the music. To commemorate the evening there was a photo area to take your picture with Santa and your friends, with props to add some humor. The Christmas event was truly magical. We have a lot of things planned for 2025 and are kicking off with our Member Appreciation Day on Friday, April 11 to celebrate all the members and the new 2024-2026 LACF Board. We will have a raffle for a laptop computer and printer along with share the wealth and of course music, food, and dancing!
You are invited to join us at our regular meetings, the fourth Thursday of every month, for snacks, bingo, dominoes and just a general fun time! And stay tuned for the details on the Cinco de Mayo celebration scheduled for May 3rd!
Hoping you all had a joyous Holiday Season, that 2025 will be a great year for you and we’re looking forward to having you be a part of the current 105-member Latin American Club of Fairways!
You can reach the club at our newly revamped Facebook page at Latin American Club at Fairways (LACF) or by email at latinamericanclub2924@gmail.com. The club president Gladys Carpena can also be contacted directly at either (201) 710-0753 or (407) 456-3091.
FWGA Announce New Board Members for 2025
by Tammy Ferrara
Happy New Year!
As 2024 has come to a close, I would like to thank our past officers and board members for their dedicated service that made our league such a successful and fun year.
President – Shirley Crall,
Past President – Dee Perrine
Vice President and Meeting Day Person – Susan Morin
Secretary and Sunshine Person – Karen Barber
Treasurer and Membership Person – Sue Edwards
Person and Birdies – Lynne LaRoche 9 Holers Chair Person and Birdies – Tammy Faro
SCAN ME
Please scan the QR code, search for Fairways Board and Eagle from Facebook, or send an email to FHAOIboard@ gmail.com, and let us know you want to join the group, and we will send you an invite.
Please Note:
Congratulations and welcome to our new officers of 2025.
President – Diane Armstrong
Vice President – Martha Harris
Secretary – Claudia Garvin
Treasurer – Lynne Blair
We welcome new members. Please contact Diane Armstrong at 407-325-7987. Also a reminder, dues for 2025 are due by January 31. With a warm heart we extend our deepest sympathy to the family of Judee Kouba and especially Terry. Judee was a member and past president of our league. She will be remembered as always being there for you as a friend with sound advice. She had a loving heart and will be truly missed by all that had the privilege of knowing her. Best wishes to everyone for a happy and healthy New Year!
2025 Directory Registration Form
If you are in the FHAOI Community Directory (large green one) and you have no changes, you do NOT need to do anything. If you were in the Hometown America directory (smaller blue one), you must fill out and return this form to the FHAOI Office at the Greenbrier to be included in the large green directory. HTA will not be making another one. Thank you!
I/we affirm that the above information is
give
Resourceful, Caring People Made it Happen!
In early Fall of 2024, Fairways residents Sandy DeJesus and Bev Dushane were chatting about the upcoming holiday season, and how they could add something special for Fairways residents. They decided they would offer Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners to any residents who were interested!
The next step was to loop in Shelly Mottram who heads up the Fairways Food Pantry. Shelly was on board. “Thank you to Sandy DeJesus for including me in this venture,” Shelly said, “and a big thank you to all the incredible volunteers who made both the Thanksgiving and Christmas events such a tremendous success.”
“It was a true group effort,” Sandy said. “So many people stepped up to help and we appreciate all the hard work and ideas as to how we could pull this off.”
A true feast for Thanksgiving for more than 100 residents – each meal delivered to their home - with nearly 200 pounds of turkey, homemade mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, stuffing, corn, and dessert. It was a wonderful gathering, made possible by the hard work and dedication of so many in our community.
And the Christmas dinner, also delivered, was equally amazing, with a homemade meal of Salisbury steak, stuffing, corn, mashed potatoes, and gravy. “Once again, our incredible volunteers stepped up to ensure everything ran smoothly.” Shelly said.
“In addition to the amazing kitchen workers, a special thank you to Kim and Larry Hysong who along with Liz and Ed Purdue moved ‘the Elf’ nightly as part of our Food Pantry fundraising efforts. Their work helped raise money for our food pantry, which directly supports residents in our community,” she added.
It’s moments like these that remind us of the power of community and the joy that comes from coming together to do for others.
Sandy added her thanks, “to all our volunteers and everyone who supports these efforts - thank you. Your generosity and kindness make Fairways a truly special place to call home. Special thanks to our outgoing Board President, Mark Kornmann, and incoming President Cathy Nanfeldt for the FHAOI support in helping to fund these events.
WINNER’S CIRCLE
BINGO WINNERS
NOVEMBER 20 –WINNERS
Early Bird Games: Maria Roldan, Loretta Hysong, Jeff Lyons, Terri Stephens, Amalfi Perez, Ryan Dunken, Marvie McVey, Jeff Lyons, Elaine Youngman
Regular Games: Darrel Paul, Ernie Tucker, Judi Christian, Millie Tucker, Elaine Youngman, Sandy Duffy, Sophia Marczak, Ellen Griswold, James Dennis, Steve Buyea
Speedball: Robin Caton
Jackpot Coverall: Barb Avery, Bryan Dunham, Maria Roldan
Odd/Even Jackpot: Karen Padot
No Bingo on November 27
DECEMBER 4 – WINNERS
Early Bird Games: Debbie Yeagley, Sandy Duffy, Steve Buyea, Linda Beckwith, Doreen Goulding, Maria Rodriguez
Regular Games: Liz Gruber, Sue Roney, Meaghan Dennis, Candy Trissel, Carmen Zayas, Lucy Prioli, Bonnie Buyea, Mary Jennings, Patty Santangelo, Judy Smegelski, Robin Hammerbacker, Doreen Goulding, Faith Meary, Carmen Roldan, Maria Rodriguez
Speedball: Marvie McVey
Jackpot Coverall: Carmen Zayas
Odd/Even Jackpot: Marvie McVey
DECEMBER 11 –WINNERS
Early Bird Games: Henry Graham, Sandy Dennis, Pam Breneman, Carmen Zayas, Doreen Goulding, Mel Lyons
Regular Games: Ann Sergio, Mae Glatthar, Laura Mercado, Pam Breneman, Karen Barber, Millie Tucker, Elaine Youngman, Carmen Roldan, Osse Glijva, Bonnie Buyea, Debbie Yeagley, Mel Lyons, Barb Marczak.
Speedball: Jo Lynn Haussman
Jackpot Coverall: Mary Butler
Odd/Even Jackpot: Joyce Cowen
There was no Bingo for the remainder of 2024
TUESDAY EUCHRE
NOVEMBER 19 – WINNERS:
First Place: Loraine Schneider (63)
Second Place: Donna Dale (62)
Third Place: Dick Chechile (60)
Fourth Place Tie: Skip Doughty (59)
Paul Montoney (59)
Door Prize: Jackie Chechile (35)
NOVEMBER 26 – WINNERS:
First Place: Paul Montoney (65)
Second Place Tie: Brian Dunham (58)
Doug York (58)
Loraine Schneider (58)
Door Prize Tie: Donna Dale (43)
Joan Estabrook (43)
DECEMBER 3 – WINNERS:
First Place: Judy Doty (72)
Second Place: Anna Hansen (65)
Third Place: Loraine Schneider (63)
Fourth Place Bob Desormier (62)
Door Prize Tie: Joan Estabrook (46)
Jackie Chechile (46)
DECEMBER 10 – WINNERS:
First Place: Bob Desormier (70)
Second Place: Loraine Schneider (66)
Third Place: Bryan Dunham (63)
Fourth Place Steve Ketelsen (62)
Door Prize: Jackie Chechile (46)
DECEMBER 17 – WINNERS:
First Place: Bryan Dunham (66)
Second Place Tie: Greg Branham (63)
Judi Casher (63)
Fourth Place: Paul Montoney (62)
Door Prize: Ellie Armstrong (47)
FRIDAY PINOCHLE
NOVEMBER 8 –
DOUBLE DECK PARTNERS
Game #1 Bob DeSormier and Loraine Schneider
Game #2 Bob DeSormier and Loraine Schneider
Game #3 Diana Ketelsen and Bob DeSormier
NOVEMBER 15 –
4-HANDED – DOUBLE DECK PARTNERS
Game #1 Bob DeSormier and Loraine Schneider
Game #2 Ellie Armstrong and Loraine Schneider
Game #3 Donna Dale and Loraine Schneider
NOVEMBER 22 –
DOUBLE DECK – INDIVIDUAL
Game #1 Loraine Schneider
Game #2 Joan Estabrook
Game #3 Loraine Schneider
DECEMBER 6 –
4-HANDED – DOUBLE DECK PARTNERS
Game #1 Bob DeSormier and Loraine Schneider
Game #2 Bob DeSormier and Donna Dale
Game #3 Loraine Schneider and Donna Dale
DECEMBER 13 –
DOUBLE DECK – INDIVIDUAL
Game #1 Bob Gussick
Game #2 Bob DeSormier
Game #3 Loraine Schneider
NOTE: If you need a replacement ‘Take it Slow’ yard sign, or haven’t had one before, please reach out to: Karen Barber 518-563-2846 or Karenvbarber50@gmail.com.
If you would like a copy of the sign schedule please also reach out to Karen.
AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION
Rates Start At:
8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Fairways Resident: PABLO
CALL TO SCHEDULE A TRIP!
407-300-5099
Accepts Zelle, cash and check.
Third Annual Golf Gala Tournament GOLF RESULTS
by Scott Glover, Roving Reporter
The Third Annual Golf Gala Tournament held November 9, was a huge success. A total of 33 teams took to the course in search of fun, prizes and bragging rights.
The field was divided into four (4) Flights with first, second and third place prizes being awarded in each Flight.
Winners of A Flight was the team of Bill Ruth, Tammy Faro, Mark and Liem Campbell. Second place in that flight was the team of James Dennis, Jim Essiambre, Phil Canonico and Patti Chiappetti. And third place team was Bruce and Cheryl Trenary, Don Creasy and Reino Koitto.
Winners of B Flight were the team of Doug Wright, Laura Mercado, Jim Phillips and Juan Villegas. Followed by the second-place team of R. Hallershack, R. Westerman, C. Westerman, and E. Wolfe. Rounding out third place was the team of Fran Bernier, Gary Fournier, Shannon Keltner and Colleen Fraser.
Moving to the largest Flight in the tournament with the toughest competition and the closet scores across the board was C Flight with the firstplace team of Drew Ford, Larry and Kim Hysong, with Kim also winning closest to the pin on ladies Hole #8. Second place
went to the seasoned team of Tim and Karen Barber and Orv and Marcie Rein. And bringing up the rear in the winner’s bracket was the third-place team of Gary Doscher Shirley Crall, Andy Stewart and Lynne LaRoche.
D Flight was won by Tom David, Dan Seidenfaden and Vice Principal, Mary Gangwich. Ed and Sue Morin with Basil Boone and Sandy Weeks claimed the second-place prize. Thom and Nancy Roberts, Marcel and Barb Castine hung on to take home the third-place prize in their Flight.
Individual prizes were awarded for men’s and women’s closest to the pin (CTP) on two of the par three’s and a combined closest to the line on Hole #5. The winners for each were Men’s CTP Gerald Mishloney. Women’s CTP was Kim Hysong and Bev Dushane won closest to the line.
Tim Barber, Tournament Director, asked that I pass along his congratulations to the winners and to all the volunteers and participants a very special thanks for a successful and memorable day. Tim is looking forward to the 2025 Golf Gala and he already has ideas for an even better event on November 8, 2025. Mark it on your calendars!
Veterans Corner
by Edwin Ramirez, Commander, Fairways Veteran Group
Happy New Year!
We are thankful that Fairways residents and their families are strong supporters of veterans. 2024 was a great year for the Fairways Veterans Group. The FVG hosted a number of events that brought the community together and shared valuable information to help veterans.
FVG’s mission is: “To engage military veterans and residents of the Fairways Country Club in cultivating fellowship, community service, resources and opportunities that support military veterans and support community events which honor veterans and other residents.” We will continue striving to fulfill our mission.
What we have planned for 2025 so far:
• Saturday, February 15th Remembering the Motown Era dance
• Saturday, March 15th – Country Music Night, with Derek Diamante
• Saturday, April 19th – Disco Fever Night, Dave Capp “Project” and France Neil.
These dates are tentative until approved. As always, all information on any future events will be announced in the Eagle, FB pages, TV Monitors and Nextdoor.
In the December edition of the Eagle, I challenged all our wonderful Fairways residents during December to do an act of kindness. We asked residents to fill out a Holiday card to a veteran and I received 158 cards, and they were delivered and distributed between the VA Medical Center in Lake Baldwin and Lake Nona Assisted Living Facilities. There are many hospitalized veterans who have no family, so any support and acknowledgement are appreciated.
Commanders thoughts:
In closing: Here at the Fairways, we are not just residents or neighbors, we are a big family. Every day we can see many helping someone in need. This is what makes living in Fairways so special. The FVG, officers and supporters, wish everyone a very Happy and safe New Year. May you all be Blessed.
• Commander, Edwin Ramirez: 407-913-3681
• Our email is: fairways.veterans.group@gmail.com
• Our mailing address is PO Box 423, Christmas, Florida 32709
Advertiser Index
The IN-TIM-idator Strikes Again
by Scott Glover, Roving Golf Reporter
That’s right, Tim “The Intimidator” Barber, scored his fourth career hole-in-one.
It was a cool Saturday morning in mid-November and Tim was playing in The Carpenter Group with three of his dearest friends, Shannon “Hidecki” Keltner, James “the Wisconsin Wonder” Dennis, and Scott “Don’t Call Me Schmuck” Glover.
Number 15 was playing at 109 yards into a stiff cold 30 mph headwind that day with the pin only two paces off the back edge of the green, Timmy, as he is affectionately known, flipped a blade of grass into the wind and determined that a sand wedge, with a three-quarter swing was the perfect choice for his club.
Tim addressed the ball, looked over at his playing partners and said, “I hope someone has access to the hole-in-one money” and took a mighty swing at the ball. The ball climbed high and higher reaching an apex of about 110 feet and fell 10 feet left of the hole, rolled right to the back edge of the green and started down towards the pin then disappeared in the shadow of the flag.
Shannon was the first to arrive at the green and began yelling “it’s in the hole, it’s in the hole.” As Tim walked onto the green, he was greeted with high fives and congratulations from his teammates and a somewhat awkward and extremely long hug from his partner Shannon.
Tim finished up his day with a great score of 73 and as the scores were called for skins in the pro shop when Tim called out natural 1, the rest of the group erupted in cheers and calls for free beer. Tim being the generous person that he is, followed the age-old tradition of buying drinks for the group.
Congratulations Tim on the perfect shot and I am proud to say I witnessed it. Wait, there’s More!
Golfers Spotlight
How do you follow up a hole-in-one?
Tim Barber did it with a career best round.
Tim, a 7 handicapper, was playing in The Carpenter Group on Tuesday, November 19th when he pulled off his subpar round of 68. His front nine score consisted of seven pars and two bogeys for a respectable score of 37, and then he moved on to the back nine where he went ahead to set the course on fire with four birdies and five pars.
Your Toys and Cash in Action!
by Mike Scanlon, Rock ‘n Roll Club president
The Rock n Roll Club November Annual Toy Drive collected five hundred Toys and $1,000 in Cash for our Toy Drive. The donations were evenly split between the Bithlo Youth Center and Faith Methodist Church on Dean Road.
On Sunday December 8th the Church had the Toy Store for needy kids in the area and invited the Rock ‘n Roll Board to come and take part in the evening events. Janet and I were able to attend, took photos and helped with the activities.
The Church had 75 Families attend, with a total of 135 kids, which meant at least five toys for each child. While the parents shopped for their kids, their children were being fed pizza and entertained in another area of the church. After the parents selected their children’s gifts, the gifts wrapped – that’s where Janet and I were helping – and we wrapped close to 100 items and were two of 14 volunteer wrappers. It was great fun, even though it was exhausting as we wrapped presents for over three hours non-stop. The parents were very thankful and we too, were thankful that we were able to help make their children’s Christmas that much more special.
This is the TRUE meaning of the Christmas Season. Thank you to all the Fairways residents that donated Toys AND Cash to this very worthy cause.
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New Year New Bible Studies
Happy New Year Everyone!
The Fairways Christian Women’s Connection is starting off the new year with two new Bible studies. Our evening session will be diving into the book of Mark on January 16th at 6:30 pm in the Greenbrier. Our afternoon sessions will be on January 9th and 23rd at 3:30 pm at Jo Lynn’s house. Her address is 14721 Firestone. The series will be “What Must I Do To Be Saved.” Both studies will be wonderful. Don’t miss them!
The ladies are going out to lunch on Tuesday, January 14th, to Goodfellas at noon. We will meet at the Masters for carpooling.
Remember all Fairways ladies are invited to all our events. With cold weather approaching, the Samaritan Resource Center is in need of items to keep the homeless warm. Blankets, jackets, gloves, hats and scarves would be appreciated. Can you imagine spending every day outside when the temperature at night is 50 degrees and below? So, look through your closet. Drop off box is at 14349 Augusta Road.
If you have any questions please email Jane Slotnick at jaslonick5@gmail.com or text Joy Ruggiero at 614-743-4402.
by Lynne Blair
December 4, 2024, started out cold but tempered out to be a beautiful day. Andy Stewart, Susan Edwards, Kathy Wheaton and I, Lynne Blair, decided to play a round of golf in the afternoon. As always, we were having a good time when we reached the 6th hole. I hit a nice 8 iron onto the green. Then Susan got on the tee box. Using a pitching wedge, she also hit a nice shot rolling towards the hole. I said, “darn it Susan, can’t you let me have one today?” Laughing, she said “no” as the ball rolled into the hole. With the greens covered with sand, that was quite a feat. Congratulations to Susan on her second hole-in-one.
Miracle on the 6th Hole
by Scott Glover
Playing in The Mixed League, on a frigid December Sunday morning, Shannon “Hidecki” Keltner carded his fourth career hole in one on number 6. Shannon, a 1.4 handicapper, was playing with Don and Mary Barber and his regular partner and main squeeze, Colleen The “Crusher” Fraser. Hole number 6 was playing 114 yards, on this cold morning, with a 20-mph crosswind from the north.
Shannon pulled his Ping pitching wedge from the bag and lined up his shot left of the pin. He took a solid swing and playing his patented, Keltner Kut, the ball started left of the hole and turned back into the stiff breeze and found the green some five feet from the hole and rolled right to find the cup.
Shannon was greeted by his teammates with shouts of “slap hands” and high fives and congratulatory hugs.
After finishing his round Shannon took up residence in the pro shop, buying drinks for all the thirsty participants in the group.
Congratulations Shannon on your fourth hole in one and may you have many more.