Caught On Camera
Do you have any pictures you would like to share? Post them in the Caught on Camera spot. Submit your photos, with a brief description, to newsletter@eagleridge33912.com.
Eighth Annual Battle Of The Sexes
Submitted by Mike Menserez
The eighth annual Chuck Seigfreid Battle of the Sexes was contested on Sunday, Dec. 3 under foggy, then ideal, weather conditions.
Teams of 22 women and 22 men played 11, four ball match play contests with one point awarded for each hole won. When the results of the 11 matches were tallied, the men had avenged their 2022 defeat with a 60 to 58 victory. The win was only the second in the last eight battles for the men, who now trail the overall standings, 13 to 12.
Individual winners were Gail Tardif, Joe Mikan, Nina Duke, Steve Duke, Dawn Kinghorn (2) and Mike Monserez, and Jim Tamblyn in the closest to the pin competition.
The closest to the line winners were Marylee Bertram and Steve Duke, and the longest putts were holed by Jill Burchill and Dave Seigfreid. The Crombie Award for fewest putts was won by Jim Tamblyn with a total of 29.
The event was sponsored by Pete/Barb Baker, Ron/ Marylee Bertram, Alan/Jill Burchill, Rich Dietrich, Steve/ Nina Duke, Jim/Nancy Gambaiani, Gene/Barbara Iannuzzi, Dawn Kinghorn, Patty Lolmaugh, Greg/Pat Koniecki, Jim/ Karen Kudrle, Inge Longpre, Gary/Sandi Mellilo, Joe/Lynn Mikan, Roy/Caryn Mikkelsen, Rocky/Ellen Moran, Steinar
Ropeid/Luann Smith, Rob Sanders/Pam Nordin, Dave Seigfreid, Tom/Susie Shearer, Bonnie Soltesz, Lloyd/Gail Tardif, Jim/Phyllis Waco.
The battle was organized by Kathy Furlong and Mike Monserez. The event concluded with an awards dinner at the Olive Garden, Fort Myers.
Garden Council To Present ‘Awesome Blossoms’
Save The Date, Feb. 13 For Strolling Flower Show
The annual Strolling Flower Show, presented by the Fort Myers-Lee County Garden Council, will be held on Feb. 13,
at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, 2301 First Street, Fort Myers, FL, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
“Awesome Blossoms,” this year’s theme, is free to the public; donations will be accepted to help defray show expenses. The public will serve as the judges for the three entry categories – most tropical, best interpretation of the theme, and my favorite design.
The three winners will be announced at a future thank you luncheon. The featured artist for the show is Heidi Love Larranz.
The Strolling Flower Show has a long history of being presented annually by the Periwinkle Garden Club, a member of the Garden Council. Space for show arrangements is limited;
designers from the various Garden Council affiliates should request a space from Anina Bachrach, aninabach@aol.com, no later than Jan. 15. Sponsors for the show are being sought and should contact aninabach@aol.com.
The Fort Myers-Lee County Garden Council was formed in 1957 and now comprises various clubs, societies, and affiliate members in the area. The council assists in educating and beautifying the community and improving the environment. The council is a member of the National Garden Clubs, the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs, and American Public Gardens.
For additional information about the council and the strolling flower show contact Susan Fero, SDF40@aol.com.
ER Squatters. Photo by Peggy Watts
High & Mighty. Photo by Maria Mendieta
Majestic Reign. Photo by Jayne Davis Sneaky Pete. Photo by Christine Francoeur
Cooking By Connie
By Connie Hope
What is January known for? It is National Blood Donor Month. It is National Hangover Day on Jan. 1, so be sure to wait before you donate that blood! It is National Buffet Day on Jan. 4. Perhaps you will find this recipe on the buffet table!
I am giving you a recipe for Baked Artichoke Appetizer.
Eagle Ridge Residents
Jogging, bicycling, walking and other nongolfing activities or unregistered golf play are not permitted on the golf course.
Please do not leave trash containers, ladders, etc., where they are visible from the street.
Also do not place containers or yard waste out to the curb more than 24 hours before the scheduled weekly pickups.
- The Board of Directors
Attention Dog Owners
It is your responsibility to pick up after your dog. It’s the law. Some of you have been negligent in doing so. Please keep our community beautiful!
Eagle Ridge Board Of Directors
From March 2023 To March 2024
Christine Leslie, President Joyce Johnson, Vice President Peggy Jermyn, Secretary/Treasurer
Greg Lambrecht, Director Kathy Furlong, Director
Board members may be contacted using the Eagle Ridge phone directory or by emailing info@EagleRidge33912.com.
Committee Chairs Board Liaison
Arbitration Board Christine Leslie
Jim Lutsch, Chairperson
Architectural Control Christine Leslie
Rick Jermyn, Chairperson
Communications Joyce Johnson
Email: info@EagleRidge33912.com
Website: Scott Fowler
Email: Joyce Johnson
Newsletter (Eye of the Eagle): Pam Johnson, Editor To submit news/photos: Newsletter@EagleRidge33912.com
Deed of Restrictions Kathy Furlong
Kathy Furlong, Chairperson
Email: DOR@EagleRidge33912.com
Election/Mailing Committee TBA
Jim and Janet Lutsch, Chairpersons
Golf Committee Kathy Furlong
Gary Melillo, Chairperson for Men
Fran Danek and Phyllis Wayco, Co-Chairpersons for Women Golf Liaison Kathy Furlong
Jim Lutsch, Chairperson
Holiday Decorating Kathy Furlong
Rick Jermyn, Chairperson
Legal TBA
TBA, Chairperson
Maintenance and Beautification
Joyce Johnson, Chairperson
Security/Safety
Connie Hope, Chairperson
Joyce Johnson
Peggy Jermyn
Social Peggy Jermyn
Sherri Holly, Chairperson
Surface Water Drainage TBA
Christine Leslie, Chairperson
Welcoming Peggy Jermyn
Kathy Furlong, Chairperson
Eagle Ridge Additional Contact Information
Replacement of Lamppost Bulbs and Light Sensors: Contact Joe Foster, (239) 218-7714 and leave your name, address and phone number.
Flagpole Holders and Damaged Mailbox Repairs, Painting of Mailboxes and Light Poles
Contact Tim Townsend (740) 403-0983.
ERPOA Web Maintenance
Contact Ed Schuler, (267) 513-0800.
Baked Artichoke Appetizer
1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, cut in sections
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 small white onion, diced
2 tablespoons of Italian herb seasoning
3 tomatoes, sliced thin (optional)
6 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese for the topping Splash of white wine
Saute onion in olive oil until tender. Place in baking dish. Sprinkle with Italian herbs and splash of white wine. Place artichokes over the onion. Place sliced tomatoes (optional) and shredded cheese on top.
Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes or until golden. Remove from oven and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
Place under broiler for 1 to 2 minutes until cheese is a little brown. Serve on small plates with forks. Serves 4 to 6.
Robert Joseph Belner
Feb. 16, 1926 To Nov. 24, 2023
Submitted by Mike Monserez
Robert Joseph Belner, 97, a resident of Fort Myers, Fla., since 1986, formerly of Deerfield, Ill., passed away Friday, Nov. 24, 2023 in Fort Myers. He was born Feb. 16, 1926 in Cleveland, Ohio to William and Anna Belner, now deceased.
Belner was the second president of the Eagle Ridge Association from 1990 to 1992. He was an avid golfer but gave up the game in 2014, as his wife Marilyn’s health had declined. He was an avid gardener and raised beautiful orchids. He loved going on adventures with Mike Monserez, with whom he played chess regularly. He considered Jim and Phylis Wayco to be part of the family. He was a voracious
reader and loved to watch sports on TV. He also loved watching Blue Bloods and Jeopardy
He is survived by two loving children, Cindie Belner of Des Moines, Iowa and Wayne Belner of Grimes, Iowa; grandchildren, Anna Ruth Ryder (Clint) of Greenbrier, Tenn., and Joshua Wayne Belner (Melissa) of Liberty, Mo.; greatgrandchildren, Renley, Eli, Owen, and Isaac; several nieces and nephews; as well as his loving canine companion, Coco Belner. Belner was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marilyn Belner in 2015; sisters, Mildred and Florence; as well as a daughter-in-law, Ruth Belner.
Memorial contributions in memory of Robert Joseph Belner are suggested to go to Hope Hospice, 9470 Healthpark Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908.
No formal services are planned at this time.
Mullins Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Fort Myers, is entrusted with final care.
Continental Women’s Club
The Continental Women’s Club will hold its monthly luncheon meeting on Thursday, Feb. 1 at 11:30 a.m. at The Hideaway Country Club.
Our February program will feature a presentation by Tom Chase, a local retired attorney, comedian, and storyteller. You are invited to attend and meet this wellknown storyteller who will share some fun stories with us as well as explain the art of storytelling.
Continental Women’s Club is a social, cultural, and philanthropic organization established in 1975, and
membership is open to women living in Lee County. We have many special events and interest groups within our club that you can participate in for social and educational purposes. Meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. at The Hideaway Country Club, 5670 Trailwinds Drive, Fort Myers 33907. The cost to attend the luncheon is $25. Reservation deadline for Feb. 1 is Tuesday, Jan. 23. Please call Liz Paul at (239) 691-7561 for additional information, meal selection, and to make a reservation.
Eagle Ridge Job Spot
Non-businesses only please! All business owners should contact Seabreeze Communications to place an ad. Are you looking for an odd job? Want to be included in the Eagle Ridge Job Spot? Email your information to Pam Whitenight at Newsletter@eagleridge33912. com. Baby-sitters, pet sitters, yard work and more.
**Note: All work performed based on the postings below become the sole responsibility/liability of the person hiring for the job and the worker. This publication and the Eagle Ridge Community bear no endorsement, accountability nor liability.
Carol Gulledge, (317) 908-8001. An art teacher offering lessons in oil, acrylic and watercolor. Teaching for 45 years and retiring here in Eagle Ridge full time. Classes will be Monday through Saturday. Bring a friend or group to have fun, relax and be creative. Classes are two hours. Call now or email rmxcar@aol. com to reserve a time.
Karleen Halfmann, (239) 292-6302. Karleen’s Coastal Home Watch. Licensed Realtor and competitive pricing. Eagle Ridge resident. Email: karleensellsswfl@ aol.com. Call or email for information.
Connie Hope, (215) 527-1217. Absentee Homeowner Services: “While you’re away” I can check your home or condo. (Weekly/biweekly/monthly). I can validate yard maintenance and irrigation, pick up parcels and mail, check water, check appliances, arrange for repairs and services and much more. I am in the community. Call or email conniehope@comcast.net.
Connie Hope, (215) 527-1217. Secretarial work, outreach office work, write your letters, answer your email, also light accounting, prepare things for taxes. I have been a Florida notary for the last 10 years.
Tom Jackson, (919) 414-5017. I have over 33 years of carpentry/cabinet making experience and worked as a full-time handyman in North Carolina for the past two
years. I can install cabinets/doors, tile backsplashes, hang TVs/lights/fans, small electrical/plumbing jobs and more. Just ask and I’ll let you know if I can do it! John Kincaid, (239) 286-7010. Home Watch for snowbirds or travelers. I am a full-time Eagle Ridge resident insured and bonded. Comprehensive reports with pictures and GPS verification are provided after every visit. Check for leaks, temp/humidity, intrusions, pests and much more. Verify lawn and pool maintenance. Don’t have a nasty surprise when you get into town. Your insurance company may not cover a claim without this service. Weekly/biweekly/monthly. Call or email john@fmhomewatch.com.
Kathie McDonough, (239) 478-0060. A resident on Triple Eagle Court, Kathie does pet sitting and home watch.
Michael Messina, (631) 357-1016. We are new residents of Eagle Ridge on Twin Eagle Lane and would like to offer professional pressure washing services to the community at discounted prices. I specialize in all flat work such as driveways, walkways, pool decking surfaces, etc. Call or text me for a free estimate. Diane Nichols, (239) 825-5861. Notary public state of Florida since 1986. I will pet sit, house sit, and babysit.
Edith Weber, (651) 410-6596. CNA with over 35 years’ experience, I can help with daily living activities such as bathing, hair and nail care, cooking, shopping, etc. I am licensed and CPR certified.
Doug Wyatt, (618) 558-8176. I am a full-time resident at The Fairways and have over 25 years of experience doing interior painting in extremely nice homes. I am very meticulous, accommodating, neat, and tidy. I can also help out with light handyman work like replacing faucets, light fixtures, door locks, etc., as well as trimming bushes, cleaning gutters, house sitting, or anything you need that I am able to do.
Florida Repertory Theatre
The Mountaintop
Florida Repertory Theatre’s 26th season continues with The Mountaintop by Katori Hall. The production runs in the ArtStage Studio Theatre now through Jan. 14. Tickets start at $65 and may be purchased online at www.floridarep.org or by calling the box office at (239) 332-4488 or toll-free at (877) 787-8053.
The Mountaintop reimagines the night before Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination. The play is set in the Lorraine Motel in Memphis where Dr. King stayed after delivering his most memorable speech. The story opens with an exhausted King calling room service for a cup of coffee as he struggles to write his next powerful speech. When a hotel maid arrives with his order, the two begin a conversation that prompts King to confront his life, his past, his legacy, and the plight and future of the people he represents.
Playwright Katori Hall’s play examines “what if” and applies magical realism to move the characters –and audience – through unexpected twists and turns. The dialog is reflective, touching, and humorous at times.
Hall won an Olivier Best New Play Award for The Mountaintop in 2010, and more recently, a Pulitzer Prize for her play The Hot Wing King . Hall also wrote the book for the Tina Turner Musical
Eagle Ridge Bulletin Board
If you have an announcement, we will include it in this column. Email newsletter@eagleridge33912.com with your request.
Eagle Ridge Golf News
Please, let us all remember the course is not for walking or kids to be playing on, regardless of the time of day. The course has access roads to be used only by golf course employees and equipment as well. Let us respect the golf course grounds and keep everyone safe!
Jim Lutsch, your golf liaison, can be reached at (239) 322-9588.
Fort Myers Camera Club
Meetings are held twice monthly November through April at Wa-Ke Hatchee Recreation Center, 16760 Bass Road from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Check the website www.fortmyerscc.com for information on meeting schedules, membership, competitions, exhibitions, speakers, outings, mentoring, updates and to join the fun. All levels of photographers are welcome to learn, share and enjoy. Contact carolheff28@ gmail.com for more information.
Volunteer In Your Eagle Ridge Community
If you are interested in serving on the Eagle Ridge Board of Directors or would like to serve on one of the committees, please contact one of the following Board members: Chris Leslie, Joyce Johnson, Peggy Jermyn, Greg Lambrecht, Kathy Furlong or send an email to Info@EagleRidge33912.com.
Ways To Communicate
Eagle Ridge has a Facebook page. This is a private group only for Eagle Ridge residents. To join, find “Eagle Ridge Community Fort Myers” on Facebook. Then click on request to join. You will be prompted to enter your address. This will be checked against property records to confirm you are a resident.
Eagle Ridge is also on NextDoor.com. You can join and select to communicate with only Eagle Ridge residents and/or our neighboring communities.
The Florida Yards & Neighborhood (FYN)
Join us at a Florida Yards & Neighborhoods class and learn the nine principles that guide Florida-friendly landscaping in Lee County. The class is given under the auspices of University of Florida IFAS Extension Lee County.
Each principle is explored in class, so you can apply what you learn to your own yard. Plant selection and placement, efficient irrigation, proper mulching, and techniques to obtain a beautiful and healthy yard will be discussed. To learn more, visit http://fyn.ifas.ufl. edu/. Basics of Florida-friendly gardening classes are offered locally in person and virtually on Zoom. For more information and to sign up visit Eventbrite.com. *****
Your Eye Of The Eagle
If you are not receiving your Eye Of The Eagle newspaper, please contact Pam Johnson at (952) 412-3243. They also may be downloaded from the Resources tab on the Eagle Ridge website: www.EagleRidge33912.com.
“ The Mountaintop is an electrifying drama full of theatricality and engaging dialog,” said producing artistic director Greg Longenhagen. “The play challenges audiences to consider Dr. King – the man – as he faces his humanity, addressing his fears, his frailties, and his passions.”
Florida Rep’s cast features returning artist, Daniel Morgan Shelley (August Wilson’s Fences ), and fellow New York-based actor, Hope Ward, making her Florida Rep debut.
Director Ansley Valentine ( Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill) will be joined by an expert creative team including Richard Crowell ( Alabaster ), costume designer Alice Neff ( On Golden Pond ), lighting designer Eli Carnahan (Native Gardens), sound designer Katie Lowe (The Legend of Georgia McBride), and stage manager Phill Madore (Ripcord).
The Mountaintop is sponsored by Bruce and Janet Bunch. Single ticket prices for The Mountaintop are $65 for regular performances. Curtain times are Tuesday through Saturday at 7 p.m., with 2 p.m. matinees on Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday. Florida Rep’s parking lot opens two hours before each performance and offers guests free parking across the street from the Arcade Theatre. About Florida Repertory Theatre
Founded in 1998, Florida Repertory Theatre is a fully professional, live theatre in the Fort Myers River District.
Performances are held in the historic Arcade Theatre and the ArtStage Studio Theatre on Bay Street between Jackson and Hendry.
Subscriptions for the 2023/24 season are on sale now for six, seven, eight, or nine shows and start as low as $234 for six shows. Discounted previews are selling out fast in the ArtStage Studio, and popular Flex Passes allow patrons to lock into $59 tickets before prices go up with demand. Tickets and information are available through the box office at (239) 332-4488 or toll-free at (877) 787-8053.
Follow the company on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for updates, behind-the-scenes insight, special offers, and more.
Security Central
By Connie Hope
The speed limit in Eagle Ridge is 25 mph. Please do not speed in the community as there are people walking on the narrow road and others riding a bike and walking a dog. People in cars seem to be driving faster and not watching out for people walking and riding.
Mailbox Maintenance And Repair
For mailbox and lamppost repairs, please contact Tim Townsend, (740) 403-0983 or email timtownsend72@yahoo. com. Mailbox doors have a closure spring that eventually breaks after thousands of openings. It is important to replace them as soon as they are discovered as they usually result in a broken door, which is a much more expensive repair. The cost of installing a new spring is $34. If the door casting breaks, it costs an additional $112 to repair the door. There are also specially manufactured flagpole holders to match the lampposts. They are available for $89 installed. Your mailbox and lamppost can also be repainted for $49, which will bring them back to their “like-new” appearance.
Daniel Morgan Shelley as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Hope Ward as Camae
Enjoy The Arts In Style
As An ArtFest Fort Myers VIP Club Member
Experience ArtFest Fort Myers As A Very Important Patron
On Friday, Feb. 2, join us in the VIP Club at Caloosa Sound for the opening night party and savor delectable culinary delights from some of the finest restaurants in our area, complemented by great wine and ice-cold beer.
The evening will also showcase 75 festival artists and a free pops concert, “Symphony on the Sound,” performed by the Gulf Coast Symphony and presented by Publix.
Architectural Control Information
Please remember that any exterior changes you plan to make to your home need to be approved by the Architectural Control Committee.
For example, this includes reroofing, exterior painting, landscape changes, swing set installations, etc. We live in a deed-restricted community and these controls have been put into place for the good of each homeowner so as to maintain our beautiful community. Please contact Rick Jermyn (701) 388-0419 or RAJermyn1@gmail.com so that your changes can be reviewed and approved.
A form is available for download from the Eagle Ridge website: www.EagleRidge33912.com on the Resources tab. We plan to work hard for you to keep our community – the one you all moved into – please help us do that!
The Board of Directors
Deed of Restrictions Section A-15:
Pets must be on a leash at all times when being walked outside of the owner’s property boundaries. The pet owner is responsible for picking up all animal waste from their pet at all times. This includes the common areas! Violators are subject to fining.
–The Board of Directors
Notice: Advertisements for the newsletter must be placed through Seabreeze Communications. Call (239) 278-4222 for information. I have no role or pricing information on the placement of ads and/or inserts.
Deadline: Submission of articles for the Eye O f T he Eagle must be received no later than the sixth of each month. Email articles, pictures or information for the Bulletin Board, to newsletter@eagleridge33912.com.
Articles can be submitted attached to or contained in an email. Photos should also be emailed as attachments.
Are You Receiving Email From Eagle Ridge?
Each month the Eagle Ridge Property Owners Association sends out an email with reminders of activities at the Ridge. If this image looks unfamiliar to you, you are not on our email list.
To correct this, send an email to info@EagleRidge33912. com along with your name and street address. We will add your name to the list, which you may opt out of at any time. We are stressing the use of email as it is faster, easier and cheaper than USPS. You may send email addresses for all members of your household.
The Board of Directors
As a VIP, you will also enjoy VIP Club parking, which is reserved exclusively for you adjacent to the art festival. Throughout the festival weekend, luxuriate in the VIP Club, an exclusive retreat reserved for ticket holders that offers a serene oasis amidst your artful shopping. The VIP Club provides culinary indulgences, beverages, and the convenience of reserved parking throughout the day.
This exclusive experience is priced at $135 per person. To relish the ArtFest Fort Myers VIP Club and bask in the creativity of over 200 artists as a very important patron, visit ArtFestFortMyers.com and click on the VIP Club button or contact us at (239) 768-3602.
ArtFest Fort Myers, an annual juried fine art festival, unfolds on Saturday, Feb. 3, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and continues on Sunday, Feb. 4, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the grand opening night event on Friday, Feb. 2, from 6 to 9 p.m., in the vibrant Fort Myers River District.
Immerse yourself in an unparalleled experience featuring over 200 professional artists from around the country and worldwide, including the largest high school art exhibit and competition in Southwest Florida and a diverse range of interactive art experiences designed for children of all ages.
For further information, please visit ArtFestFortMyers.com or contact us at (239) 768-3602 or info@ArtFestFortMyers. com. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram using the hashtag #artfestfm.
If You Go
What: Southwest Florida’s premier art festival featuring over 200 national artists, a high school art competition, a street chalk art competition, children’s art activities, exquisite cuisine, and captivating entertainment.
When: Feb. 3, Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Feb. 4, Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Friday, Feb. 2, grand opening night, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Downtown Fort Myers River District on Edwards Drive
VIP Club: Priced at $125 per person, purchase tickets on ArtFestFortMyers.com by clicking on the VIP Club.
Cost: General admission is free.
Parking: Seek out prominent event parking signs and flags, with trolleys available from remote lots. Multiple parking lots, on-street parking, and city garages are accessible near the festival. VIPs are entitled to reserved parking.
Join Us in a Discussion of Florida Residency, Is it Time? Caleb A. Lowman, CFP® Managing Director Cordially invites you to
Hawk Winery & Restaurant
Ct., Fort Myers, Fl 33912 for a discussion of Florida Residency Basics that new residents should know and understand. If you would like to attend, Call (239) 344-7575 or email Marketing Coordinator, Tara Lowman at tara.lowman@lwm-llc.com and we will reserve your spot. Seating is limited.
