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Third Annual Lee County Girls’ High School Invitational February 15 -17, 2024

The Landings is pleased to once again be hosting the Lee County Girls’ High School Invitational And it will be bigger and more exciting than ever. The organizers of the Invitational wanted to open it up to even more young women in SW Florida. After doing some research they have decided to employ the UTR (Universal Tennis Rating) system accepted by high schools, colleges, and universities in the United States and internationally. This will result in the event being opened to UTR-ranked high school age girls from all

over SW Florida. Now girls from public and private high schools as well as “at-home” schools can participate. With this change the Invitational will become much more competitive.

One of the benefits of working with UTR is that it could help the players take their game to a whole new level. They can showcase

themselves in front of coaches from all over Florida, which in turn gives them an opportunity to get exposed to college recruiting as well as learn to represent themselves as athletes. Some of the girls who compete will most likely have the goal of becoming a college tennis player and maybe even higher!

Another advantage to The Landings is that UTR professionals will be here to help our Landings professional staff during the tournament. Our community is incredible at reaching beyond our walls to help and encourage others

in SW Florida. Working with the UTR organization will allow us to show how much we want to support these young women to achieve success in their lives and future careers, both on and off the tennis courts.

If you’re interested in participating as a Business Sponsor or a Resident Patron, please contact Laurie Hamilton at lauriehamilton@icloud.com. There will also be lots of opportunities to help at the event and of course, dig out your pom poms and get ready to cheer all athletes on!!

Holiday Shopping Bazaar Sets Record

By Kathy Striggow

The Landings’ Holiday Shopping Bazaar on Tuesday, Nov. 7th, attracted well over 300 strolling gift hunters who perused the treasures displayed by 55 vendors.

The Landings Activity Director Extraordinaire, Michele Lawson, was pleased to report this year’s event was “the largest Holiday Shopping Bazaar we’ve ever had at the Landings!” Thank you, Michele, for all the time and work you and your committee put into making this year’s event a tremendous success!

The beautiful weather surely contributed to attracting the numbers of shoppers.

Vendors displayed a plethora of items including jewelry, crocheted and embroidered items, paintings, holiday accessories and decorations, multi-season wreaths, cosmetics, and hats.

Talented members of our Landings villages manned about half of the display tables, while other vendors purchasing table space were from area communities. It was interesting seeing friends and neighbors displaying items that exhibited their hidden creativity. Even if you were not in the market for anything in particular, it was worth the time just to meander through the Main Deck and appreciate our gifted neighbors. Who knows, you might have found a treasure made by a friend that will become a keepsake!

The Shopping Bazaar is one of the holiday season’s most anticipated events for the entire Landings community. Watch for the flyers next fall, and make sure you mark your calendar for the 2024 bazaar. Maybe we can set another record. You will not want to miss it!

Clockwise, Mary Saenger (SBBE), Twila Hall and Cindy Crocker from Cape Coral, and Mary Rea (SBBE)

Athletes competing at 2023 Invitational

Photos by Vickie Resor

Hello, Happy Landings Tennis Enthusiasts!

By Ann Downing

Get ready for an exciting season of tennis, as our beloved Happy Landings in-house league is making a triumphant return! It’s time to dust off your racquets and embrace the thrill of “mildly competitive” tennis while socializing with fellow members.

Here are the details:

Season Dates: January 3rd - March 14th, 2024 Day and Time: Wednesdays, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM

What to Expect:

Format: Two 8-game pro sets, no add scoring Player Grouping: Same gender and mixed doubles Players grouped by skill level

Participation Options:

-Sign up as a regular player: $15 per person -Join as a substitute player

For sign-up or if you have any questions, please contact Jamie Hoffman at Hoffmanj991@gmail.com.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to enjoy some great tennis and socialize with fellow Happy Landings members. We look forward to seeing you on the courts!

Chess And Checkers Club News

By John Winters

As I begin to write this article, we are looking forward to our special chess event for beginners to play chess. It is scheduled for November 7th. Hopefully, it was a success. I believe we should repeat this special event. Maybe even once a month?

At a recent club meeting, I mentioned chess sets used in Europe look somewhat different from ours. The sets we use are Staunton sets. They were first used in 1849 and are named after an English chess master, Howard Staunton. A friend of mine played a lot of chess in Europe. He told me they use a Grossmeister set. Its features are plain, like the Staunton. The main difference is that the king’s head is round. Also, the white king has a black nob on top of his head, and the black king has a white nob on top of his. It does appear the Staunton has now become the standard used in tournaments throughout the world.

My wife and I recently watched a dramatic movie on television (Netflix) about high school kids learning chess. It is based on a true story. The title is “ Critical Thinking ” and came out in 2020. A high school teacher (played by John Leguizamo) inspires his students to play chess at a high level. It’s an inner-city Miami school. The teacher volunteers to pay the team’s expenses to go to the regional chess tournament (in Fort Myers!). The team wins. They go on to the state tournament. They win again! They advance to the national tournament! Watch the movie to find out if they win again! There are interesting discussions about chess strategy and psychology. We highly recommend the movie!

Nine-Holers: Trick Or Treat And Heat

By Michele Cavanagh

The first weeks of our fall season were played in Florida’s summer-like heat. It was hot! Towards the end of October, more seasonable weather rolled in along with more and more people from the north who migrated south and have registered for our league. Welcome back to previous members and a warm welcome to all our new members!

On Friday, October 20th, our league took a week off from our traditional red, white, and blue colors and invited players to wear their Halloween costumes. There was a parade of witches, devils, and various animals, to name just a few. Lynn Cisky and Betty Marshall won the Best Costume

to Trick or Treat or golf

LLGA-18 Ladies Golf Happenings!

By Mary Ann Spry

No truer words are shared

than “It takes a Village,” and that goes for a golf league as well. Thank you to Lynne Denk, our current President, for keeping our membership informed of our many activities. A big Thank You to Christy Fitz, our membership chair, who presents us with our new directory for the season. New members are added each month and we welcome Sandra Winegardener to our group this month.

In absence of our LEGA chairs, Linda Francis and Belinda Stacey did a terrific job in making sure hosting our annual LEGA event went off without a hitch. Sixty-eight ladies, most of which were from other executive clubs in Fort Myers, had a great time and praised our golf department for providing such great course conditions. They admitted it is

Awards for their creative Salt and Pepper Costumes. Well done, ladies. Thanks for spicing up the event! All the players had the opportunity to enjoy some seasonal apple cider and Halloween treats. Thank you to Grace Berg for arranging to get the delicious treats.

Thank you to Suzanne McGauley who has kindly sent photos and highlights to me during September and October. Your efforts are greatly appreciated. Thank you as well to our fall hostesses. There are still a few opportunities to host or help with a luncheon. The sign-up sheet is on the 9-Holers bulletin board. It is a great way to meet new people and form new friendships.

Did you know that we keep archives of our league board minutes and other information? They can be found at the library in the Helm Club in a binder, in the cupboard under the puzzles. Check out our history next time you are there.

a challenge, but love playing here. Congratulations to Linda Francis for placing 1st in the LEGA event held last month at Lake Fairways Country Club. It hardly seems possible the calendar is showing the last month of the year and the holiday season upon us. Thanks to Dotty Fritze, Annie Rabbitt, and Cathy Goeckel for hosting our special holiday luncheon on the 6th of December where you will be seeing some fun holiday

ware for a change and playing some reindeer games. Our “Welcome Back” was a huge success. We thank the 9-hole ladies for joining us for the “Mexican Fiesta.” The Helm kitchen staff outdid themselves in providing a beautiful assortment of many delicious choices for any appetite. Some 1st Place winners in the “3 Blind Mice” play day were Lynda Redmond in 1st Flight and Pat Lally in 2nd Flight. Many great scores after throwing out 3 holes determined by the Pro prior to play. You just never know. Check out the new merchandise in the Pro shop. It sure does look like a “Happy Place” with all the fun patterns and bright colors. Did you notice the display changes as well? Christmas is coming, so how about enjoying the convenient shopping experience for family and friends.

Enjoy every round and Happy Holidays to all!

Ready

from

to R are Diane Teeter, Kathy Zielle, Grace Berg, and Cindy Rollman

Costume Winners Lynn Cisky as Salt and Betty Marshall as Pepper

Welcome Back!

General Manager’s Report

October 20, 2023

• The gate upgrade project is finally moving to the final stages of completion. The underground boring is complete, and the fiber cable has been run from the back gate to the maintenance. This will ensure a reliable connection for gate and bar code reader communications. The only thing we are now waiting on is the tech connection and testing, then we’re ready to go live. We will send notice of the start date and how the new system works but, in short, it will allow only members to exit via the back gate and the Windjammer gate, making all non-member traffic enter and exit through the gatehouse.

• We are just finishing the repairs and painting of the maintenance compound wall, repairs to the fences on either side of the main Landings entry and the fence at the maintenance compound. We completed the fence surrounding the Wheelhouse/Marina dumpster area.

• The painting of the community perimeter wall is well underway. The wall is pressure washed, stucco repairs made, and sealed and painted. This should finish up in the next 10 days.

• We are waiting for the repairs to the Helm ramp handrails on the tennis side of the building. These were hit by debris during the hurricane and need to be re-welded. Same vendor as the fence repairs.

• Awning replacements/repairs for the marina, golf, tennis

Financial Report

September 2023

Summary

and golf course grounds are now in the final stages. The marina Ships Store awning was installed, and the tennis awning for court 1 has the frame up and waiting for the fabric installation. The awnings at the Helm building (golf, tennis, Garden Room) are on order still but are in production now.

• We have ordered replacement banquet chairs and Compass Rose bar and dining room chairs. The banquet chairs should ship out the middle of November and the chairs for the dining room and Ladies Lounge will ship the following week. We are hoping to have these in by Christmas.

• The roadway and parking lot markings and striping were completed.

• The underground boring was completed for the electrical connection to the Driving Range ball machine. We are now waiting on FPL to access the connection and finish the new electrical hookup.

• We contracted for the study to determine what is needed to improve the WIFI at the Wheelhouse and Helm buildings, as the current setup needs to be better, particularly since we plan on adding server tablets to both restaurants. Our tech vendor loaded the floor plan and performed the test phase to identify the WIFI needs. This is now being analyzed to determine the steps needed to permanently strengthen the building for WIFI. Eventually, the same process will be done for the Wheelhouse building.

• The Administration lake fountain is still down, requiring a replacement motor which is on order.

that were caused by the hurricane. This includes the buffer area along the canal opposite Ariel, landscaping in front of the Administration building, the back-gate area, and some tree stump removals.

• Repairs were completed to the sewer line under the Helm building, as well as repairing a water line leak under the walkway by the Tennis Shop.

• We are scheduling some minor roadwork repairs in several areas along the community roadways. Hopefully, we can complete this within the next couple of weeks.

• We replaced the 4 x 4 landscape retaining timbers along the south side of the marina. This was part of hurricane repairs.

• The pole lights along Dockside Drive have now been repaired, and the parking lot lights at Admin/Fitness were also repaired and we replaced the lighting with new LED lights

• With the design selection for the new Wheelhouse patio pavers, the old pavers will be of no use in the rebuilding. However, since we saved as many of the memorial bricks as possible after the storm, we decided to create a new area at the end of Picnic Pointe facing the river that is now home to these memorial bricks, complete with landscaping and benches.

• The new flagpole that replaces the old flagpole by the ships store that was destroyed by the hurricane, has been installed at the very end of Picnic Pointe, complete with lighting and will also be used as a Christmas tree. We also used some of the old Wheelhouse patio pavers around the pole. We partnered with the LTPA and the LYC to fund this great improvement and thank them for their leadership in making it happen.

• We again used some of the old Wheelhouse pavers by the hole #3 cart path and the driving range in an area that is often worn down and gets washed out during rains.

• The landscaping repairs/replacements at #5 tee and the buffer between #7 and #8 is complete.

The Landings Yacht, Golf & Tennis Club for the month had revenues that exceeded budget by $93.9k and was short to budget at GOP by ($3.6k). Food and Beverage revenue was lower than budget ($3.3k) and department profit was above budget $14.3k. Golf revenue was better than budget by $6.6k, but department profit/loss was below budget ($5.0k). Tennis was ($3.5k) below budgeted revenue and profit for the month was below budget by ($3.5k). The Marina experienced another good month in revenue, with revenues exceeding budget by $88.4k and profit was under budget by ($11.6k). For the current period ending September 30, 2023, total revenues came in at $840,078 versus a budget of $746,165 for a positive variance of $93,913. Gross Operating Profit for the month was ($3,753) compared to a budget loss of ($162) for a negative variance to budget of ($3,915).

Operational Departments: For the month, operational departments performance was mixed, with Food and Beverage favorable to budget by $14,284 in departmental profit/(loss). Golf Department was down budget with loss of ($18,448) in departmental profit/(loss). Tennis Department P/L fell just short to budget for the month with loss of ($37,732). Marina Department was down to profit for the month by ($11,766) in departmental profit/(loss).

Overhead Departments: Combined, overhead departments were virtually on budgeted expectations with a variance to budget of a combined ($1,307). Administration Department was over budget by ($22,326) with a marginal percentage of 12.8% to a budget of 11.5%. Community Patrol Department was over budget by ($5,207) with a marginal percentage of 5.6% to a budget of 5.6%. Golf Course Maintenance Department was slightly over budget by ($11,809) with a marginal percentage of 11.0 to a budget of 10.8%. Property Maintenance Department was over budget by ($17,241) with a marginal percentage of 9.3% to a budget of 8.2%. Utilities came in well under budget by $55,277 due to an audit adjustment with a marginal percentage of (2.5%) to a budget of 4.5%.

Net Income before Depreciation and Amortization: The club’s net income before depreciation and amortization was negative ($58,823) vs. a budget of negative ($46,226), unfavorable to budget by ($12,597).

Balance Sheet: The club’s cash position as of the month end is $819,454 in Operating Funds. $802,413 in Reserves and $737,550 in Infrastructure Funds (which includes funds from insurance claims for the Wheelhouse).

Delinquent Accounts: The club’s accounts receivable balance as of 9/30/2023 was $803,532.07 with 5 accounts being deemed delinquent for $93,813.01.

Capital Contributions: During the month, the Club had capital contribution funds of $42,000, with seven sales and one refund.

• There was a damaged concrete manhole along the north sidewalk in Longboat Village. This was damaged by an IonaMcGregor fire truck. The fire district will be paying for the repairs to this. This work was completed on 10/19.

• We have additional areas of concrete repairs that are scheduled for October 23-24, including the entrance curbing at Spanker Court and the marina. The pad for the fish station on the river is also being laid for the new fish station to be installed.

• We have finished the landscaping repairs/improvements around the tennis courts and other areas. We have also approved the remaining repairs/replacement of damaged landscaping

• We have been working over the summer on new upgrades to our Landings website. The new site will be a new experience – visually all new. It will include an APP for your phone as well. You will be able to see the calendar of events and sign up on line and also sign up on line for dining reservations in both restaurants. It will be much easier to navigate. We are targeting the third week of December to go live, providing everything moves forward as it has been. We will provide further updates as we get closer to going live.

Reviewing Members’ Fall Travails And Victories

While Looking Forward To 23-24 Season

By Bill Ferris

Last month, Happy Landings inadvertently published a 3-year-old column published in November 2020, rather than the November 2023 column. We informed all Club members of this snafu through a Club email blast, and we did the best we could via the weekly emailed “Landings Life” newsletter for the rest of the Landings’ readers.

On to some really good news. At the recent Regional Sanibel ACBL Tournament, at least 15 members won over 150 Gold masterpoints, quite likely the best such performance of the LDC ever. Gold masterpoints are not normally awarded at the club level, but rather mostly at regional and national tournaments held quarterly or sporadically every year. Yet they are essential to rise through the ranks to various Club Master and Life Master ranks. The chart below, compiled by Jerry Poissant, chronicles the success of the 15.

The club has weathered the challenges of COVID-19, Hurricane Ian, playing at 8 a.m. due to unavailability of the Helm dining room, and just recently the plumbing issues that closed the Helm Club on our opening game day. Now the 2023-24 calendar year is presenting another challenge for us. Last year, we played every Monday including throughout the Christmas season. This year we are facing the reality that both Christmas and New Year’s Days are on Mondays; thus, we really cannot play on either of those holidays. At a vote on November 13th, the members decided not to make up those missed days.

Meanwhile, please remember to sign up via phone call to Partnership Chair, Marina Kotch (239-689-8957), or by phone or email to Assistant Club Manager, Barb Coneys, before the Monday morning that you wish to play. As a reminder, Barb’s contact information is 631-786-9890 and barb411204@gmail.com.

Remember, all of us are duty-bound to sign up for our partnerships for the sessions in advance, allowing Director

Players Winning Gold Masterpoints at the Sanibel Regional

Judy Cleveland to set up the game on the computer in time for our 8 a.m. start. If the Garden Room exceeds capacity, we will take players on a first-come basis, or possibly expand into the Ladies Lounge.

Finally, Treasurer Sue Wotton will be accepting annual dues of ten dollars at the Registration Desk in December. You are eligible to be a member if you were a member last year, or you own or rent a home in The Landings.

Coming Soon. Instructional bridge classes with materials, taught by Wanda Jacobs beginning Saturdays in January. Look for more details in flyers on campus. Contact Wanda (preferably by December 28 ) at 4585 Trawler Ct #403. Prepayment of $25 will be required.

AAUW

The American Association of University Women will host its annual Scholarship Fundraiser , a holiday-themed Bingo/Buffet Dinner on Thursday, December 14, 2023, in the Main Deck of the Helm Club. Each bingo game winner will receive $50, and the final one will win $100. Silent auction items will include extraordinarily-themed baskets. There will be a live auction for tickets for the Florida Repertory Theater. Doors will open at 4:30 for viewing and bidding. The buffet will begin at 5:00 and the Bingo at 6:00.

The public is invited, but reservations are required for the dinner and bingo event. Tickets must be purchased ahead of time. If you plan to attend, send a check for $75 made out to AAUW Fort Myers along with a list of those with whom you will be sitting. You may choose to have a table of up to eight. Send your check to Carolyn Nance at 11674 Lady Anne Circle, Cape Coral, 33991. Carolyn can be contacted at 5240@gmail.com or (239) 785-9993.

AAUW is dedicated to supporting the education of young women in our area. Several scholarships are provided to promising students. The organization also actively supports STEM projects in the hope of encouraging girls to enter the fields of science and mathematics. The monthly AAUW meetings provide avenues for women to get acquainted and learn about interesting issues. Our organization invites women to meet and join the organization. Members include women who have had careers in many fields and women who are actively working in the Fort Myers area.

If you would like more information about joining the organization or would like to attend one of our monthly meetings in the future, please contact us: Email: aauwleecounty@gmail.com; Website: fmIc-fl.aauw.net, or Landings resident Peggy Cihi, peggycihi@comcast.net Leave a phone number where you can be reached.

Village News

Ariel, Clipper Cove, Flagship, Harbortown, Lighthouse, Longboat, Mariner’s Cove, Riverside, Schooner, Steamboat Bend, Steamboat Bend East, Sunset Cove, Sunset Harbor, Trawler, Windjammer

Schooner

Every week, Schooner welcomes back more of its snowbirds as well as new owners. The Michiganders now have been overrun by Kentuckians including, most recently, Liz Welsh and Lisa Cates who moved here from Louisville, KY.

They fell in love with The Landings after visiting friends (Mike and Lynda Redmon) and bought in Windjammer. Deciding to relocate here full time, they have now found their forever home in Schooner!

Ric & Mary Wilson-Tauson rooesq@juno.com

Liz and Lisa are both musicians who early on made livings playing music. Liz is a guitar/bass player singer-song writer, and Lisa has a double major in voice and percussion. But having played professionally in their younger years, their passions led them in new directions. While living in Nashville, Lisa worked with National Safe Place being dedicated to their mission to provide help for teens in crisis needing shelter and safety. Lisa went on to serve as the National Policy Advisor for the organization. Lisa also served as Chair of the Board of Directors for the Louisville Coalition for the Homeless as well as in other board positions.

Liz started out as a math teacher but serendipitously found herself involved in political advocacy. Starting as an aide to Kentucky Governor Martha Layne Collins, Liz went on to work with a K-Street Washington, DC firm. Ten years in, she and Lisa met. Recognizing a niche in political advocacy for executive level communications and marketing, they founded Executive Communications, Inc. The firm’s forte was mobilizing local elected officials to affect legislation on the state and federal levels. Liz has served on numerous boards including the American Association of Political Consultants. Meanwhile, the two continued playing music, a passion they will never abandon! As leading members of their church’s praise band, they played three to four services a week for 17 years. Here at The Landings, Liz plays a lot of golf and Lisa is getting into bocce! (And for all you KY folks, they are CARDS fans!)

While we welcome new residents, we say farewell to former owners Arla and Tom Kern who relocated to Heritage Cove.

They are nearby but missed. We wish them well and especially thank Arla for her service as Treasurer of the Schooner Board.

Steamboat Bend

Every day brings more of us together to enjoy each other’s company and the beautiful surroundings we have here. Our new fountain is in place, work has begun on our roofs, and decisions are beginning on the fresh look for our buildings. Thank you to our board of directors for all their hard work.

Debra Bates & Pam Baran batesdebra18@gmail.com pamelajbaran@gmail.com

In September, Kathy and George Brown traveled to Portugal, and Maggie & Al Alexander, Barb & Terry Judd, and Nancy & Jim Koeger took a Mediterranean cruise making stops in Egypt, Greece, Italy, and Turkey. They enjoyed great sights, fun, and a few mishaps while a Turkish rug or two may have been purchased. Nonetheless, all agree that the trip was fantastic.

In early October, Roseanne and Mas Fukushima welcomed a new grandson, Brixton Masayuki. Their daughter, Brekken, and her husband, Pierce, are the proud, first-time parents.

In golfing news, congratulations to fellow Steamboat Benders, Keith Biscarr, and Pat Bailer on their recent holes-in-one!

Steamboat Bend East

“December is invitation. December invites us to be our most radiant selves. And we find that radiance deep down in the heart of the darkness.” –Barbara Mahany From The Stillness of Winter For those of you yet to arrive, I want to give you a sneak peak of the new addition to our pool area.

Carol Cummins callifleur1955@gmail.com

Many contributed to the building of our new permanent Tiki Bar Gazebo and the semi-permanent Women’s Gazebo with the lovely chandelier. It looks particularly nice at night with the special lighting

effects. Many thanks to the crew led by Peter Dahlin for this beautiful addition to our pool area providing extra shade during sunny days and ambiance at night. Jan Davis donated the chandelier. It’s looking even more like a very nice resort.

Jane Johnsen attended the wedding of her Granddaughter Carrie on October 14 th and has graciously provided a description: “The wedding was as beautiful as the bride’s ocean blue eyes and golden blond hair. Bridesmaids Christine and Catherine Johnsen, Carrie’s sisters, wore strapless fuchsia dresses carrying roses and carnations. Wayne (Jane’s son) escorted his wife, Patrice, in her elegant floor length beautiful gray beaded dress across the dance floor. Carrie, whose white wedding gown lavishly brushed along the floor with her veil delicately held in her hand, was lovingly danced to her place of honor for a delicious dinner by her new husband. Landon, always the gentleman, in his handsome manner, waltzed his new mother-inlaw, Patrice, very proudly, across the floor to have dinner with the bride’s family and friends. Grandma Jane had the pleasure of dancing with her sons Scott and Wayne in her elegant silver Chico silver top and satin slacks. Wine and beer flowed until the evening came to fruition at 9:30 pm.”

Jane would like to thank the many friends and family who sent warm wishes and prayers to her this last year when she was ill with Double Pneumonia. Her sons Wayne and Scott and daughter-in-law Patrice provided excellent care and she is doing great in North Carolina.

The new year 2024, is a month away and so she would like to wish the Landings folks a Very Merry Christmas and Happy & Healthy New Year. She is looking forward to toasting in the new year at the Wheelhouse in 2024, Lord willing.

The weather for the Sunday Scrambles has been beautiful, starting out nice and crisp then warming up

Villages on page 7

Nina Burt, OD Kate Wagner, OD Yasaira Rodriguez, MD

The new Tiki Bar Gazebo and Women’s Gazebo featured at night

Jane Johnsen and her son Wayne Johnsen at her granddaughter’s wedding. The arch built by Wayne for the happy couple.

Villages from page 6

nicely. Lynn DeFranc and Carol Cummins from SBE came in first place on the October 29th Sunday Scramble.

Sunset Harbor UPDATE:

elevators are working, the pool is heated, the tiles are repaired, and all is well again!

There are so many summer stories to tell from Liyi Chen’s visit to Japan & China, the Lists’ travels to Austria, the Fouchers’ adventures across the USA and, Pete Gaffney went to Cape Coral, twice!

Several residents have purchased new replacement parts including knees, hips, shoulders, teeth, and facelifts. By ordering the parts in bulk, we are saving a lot of money!

Liyi Chen and Pete Gaffney petergaffney8899@yahoo.com

It’s time to welcome everybody back! Since this issue of Happy Landings will be out the first week in December, let’s start with happy belated Thanksgiving and thanks to our chorus leader, Herchel Avra, for putting together two wonderful Christmas concerts with the Landings Chorus. Our village is represented by Pete Gaffney & Mike Schulte (Tenors) and Sue McGinnis (Alto), otherwise known as the Three Little Birds. So, don’t worry ‘bout a thing, every little thing is gonna be alright.

Most importantly, Steve Scharber has returned to fix everything that Norma broke over the summer. The lights are up, the roofs are done, the

BUI LDI NG

Breaking News: There’s a new restaurant in town! Herbert & Christine Salzman have opened “Mountain Four” with two friends from Sunset Cove, Harry & Lisi, just north of the “List distillery” on Evans Street. We will be having our Village Christmas Party there this week and it will be great. I had the pleasure of being invited to the soft opening over the summer and have to say it was a delightful culinary experience. They serve gourmet Austrian and American cuisine, and Landings residents get a special discount! So, if you are looking for a great lunch and/or dinner experience, be sure to go there!

Trawler

Trawler Village Kicks off Holiday Season

Al & Patti Palumbo thealster6@gmail.com

Trawler Village kicked off the holiday season with its annual Halloween party on Monday, Oct. 30th. The party was BYOB, with a Potluck buffet that all who attended enjoyed. Getting into the spirit of the event, many people dressed in great costumes. There was the cowboy, courtesy of Doug Craig, the NFL referee, courtesy of Sherry Craig, and the busy bee, courtesy of Barbara Hartman. The party was well planned, well-coordinated, and well hosted. Party Planners, Mary Lou Longworth and Ann Collier, received a warm round of appreciation applause from all in attendance. Thank you, Mary Lou and Ann!

Thanks also go to Wanda Jacobs for taking the party photos. Wanda posted the photos on the Facebook, “Trawler Village Group” page. Congratulations also to Ann Simmons who won the party’s 50/50 drawing and went home $63 richer. Finally, we would like to thank Le Roy Fleming for starting the party by leading all in prayer. Thank you, Le Roy.

During the party, Barbara Hartman addressed the partygoers by congratulating everyone for “their outstanding generosity last year in supporting local service partner agencies.” Barbara invited everyone to join in the 2023-2024 United Way campaign. She noted that The Landings’ goal is now $53K, and she highlighted the WECare program for connecting uninsured patients with Medicare providers. Barbara Hartman is The Landings’ United Way Chairperson. She can be reached at 239.940.5702, or

First Place Sunday Scramble Team left to right; Pete Sherman, Carol Cummins, Lynn DeFranc and Rick Brown

Closest to the pin was won by Carol on Hole Number one.

Steve Scharber

Lisi, Harry, Christine & Herbert

Patio Event Space New Lobby

Disney Family Vacation

Kathy and Rick Jerr met their family, including their triplet grandchildren, in Orlando for 7 fun-filled days. They shared their time between Disney and Universal. Rick says that both were a lot of fun. They stayed in a 6-bedroom home at Encore Resorts. While visiting the parks, they tried out the Tron motorcycle coaster at Disney and Velociraptor at Universal! Welcome back, Kathy and Rick.

Windjammer

Friends Old and New

It is with great sadness, but also joy, that we say goodbye to longtime resident Julie Grise. She will be heading back to Michigan to be closer to family. Chuck and Julie bought in Windjammer in 2000. Though Chuck has passed we remember well how he always had projects in the home and on his boat, or playing tennis. Julie plays golf and tennis, cards, and is a good friend to all. We wish her a wonderful start in her new home! We are certainly wishing Dave and Judi Russell, just now celebrating their 65th wedding anniversary, all the best and many more years to come!

Our November Gazebo Halloween party was well attended with about 90 Windjammers including two bursting full tables of our Canadian friends! Mary Beth Maile, again on behalf of our Southpoint Fire Station, presented the benefits of their “File of Life” program – a front door notification sticker with all pertinent personal and medical information in case they are needed in an emergency. This is a lifesaving program all residents should consider, just contact Mary Beth. And we do want to congratulate Miki and Rick Blackmon on their new kitten Kabal, who is quite the kitty zooming around the condo!

More exciting news is Bill and Rosetta Rush’s amazing Viking Jupiter British Isles cruise! Bill has authored a fascinating journal of these 15 days in 6 countries with 12 guided tours. What sparkles through Bill’s commentary is their fascination, not only with the countries they visited,

but also the thorough history provided in each country… especially the “Enrichment Lectures” and “Port Talks” introducing the next visit making Viking Cruises so special. Viking Jupiter leaves nothing to the imagination, providing perfect organization on board and on shore.

Any cruise and particularly this 960 passenger ship is teaming with new acquaintances and friendships, a truly international experience from the many co-travelers, table company, the cruise staff, tour guides, the entertainers, coming from as far as Russia, to even their home state Kentucky! It is an enriching experience to learn about their lives and career paths – often including interesting coincidences. Bob Pliskin, a photography presenter on the cruise, shares his record of 14 Viking cruises! Checkout pictures at BobPliskin.com.

Ariel

“Whether you travel home for the Holidays, stay at The Landings, or take a trip, what the World and our Country need now, is Peace, Love, Forgiveness and Prayers!”

Sharon and Lou Kapp spent a week on a National Park tour last month. It was an organized tour by motor coach. They started in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and ended in Rapid City, South Dakota. They also visited Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park (seeing Old Faithful erupt); drove thru the Bighorn Mountains on a highway at elevations of up to 9500 feet; visited the old western town of Deadwood (Mount Moriah Cemetery, final resting place of Wild Bill Hickok & Calamity Jane); traveled to Custer State Park seeing cowboys rounding up a herd of nearly1500 bison; visited Crazy Horse Memorial,

Happy Landings News

Mount Rushmore and the rugged but incredibly scenic Badlands National Park. It makes us all tired just reading about this trip!

Marina and Mike Kotch took a trip down memory lane this past fall and traveled to Marina’s home town of Verona, Italy for a grand family wedding. Marina and Mike met in Verona, and were married there, spending several years abroad before returning home to the United States. They are pictured in front of the Verona Coliseum and are a real present day

“Romeo & Juliet!” Bravo

Marina and Mike!

Ariel has a new “Book Club!” organized by Tanya Dziubla, and sponsored by the Library Committee and Chair, Tanya Dziubla. There are already 15 members and they continue to grow and add more readers each month. Meetings and books are being planned and everyone is looking forward to discussions.

Sharyl Leifeld & Stacey Gossmann staceygossmann@comcast.net

Chris Erwin cerwin.home@gmail.com

Villages on page 9

Clipper Cove

Clipper Cove Residents Travel Abroad 15 Day Adventure in Bhutan

Linda Andrews traveled to beautiful Bhutan where she acclimated to the 11,000-foot elevation. She was able to attend the annual Jakar Festival, which celebrates life, happiness, the victory over evil spirits, and the

Through the Panama Canal

Tyler Bumsted and Holly Morris and Steamboat East friends took a ten-day Viking cruise through the Panama Canal. They had a great time highlighted by an ATV trip in Honduras and snorkeling on the barrier reef of Belize.

Travelers StateSide

Al and Teri Fansler hiked Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons before returning to Clipper Cove this fall.

Maisie Seiverling maisieseiverling@yahoo.com

phallus. Linda also hiked with a trail guide, who carried a machete to ward off leopards, tigers, and bears and saw the rare black neck crane as it migrated. She made the difficult eight-hour trek to the Tiger’s Nest, one of ten manmade wonders of the world.

Special Moment

Dee Bowersox’s husband Bob is currently at the Columbia Cottage Home. Greatgranddaughter Charlotte visited great-grandpa Bob to bring him Halloween cheer.

Visit by great granddaughter Charlotte

Flagship

It’s true that couples who sing together, stay together, as proven by Herchel and Carolyn Avra as they celebrated their 55th Wedding Anniversary this past summer. Congrats and keep on singing your duet! Condolences to the families of Gary Andersen (4608) and Tom Felton (4604). Both were long time owners in Flagship. We’re also saddened by our ever-faithful furry friends, Carver, Guinevere and Grizzle Bear who went on to doggy heaven. Much sympathy to all!

Congratulations to John Fusinetti! He had a hole-in-one on October 30th on hole 7. This was John’s second hole-in-one at The Landings. Way to go, John! Welcome to new owners Roy and Irene Dubrevil (4616) to Flagship!

we island hopped. The trip was put together by the alumni of Colgate University, Cathy’s alma mater. We stood on many of the same spots that Darwin stood, seeing nature exactly as he saw it as he theorized evolution. Truly this spot-on earth is worthy of a bucket list item.”

Our village pool and area received a very thorough cleaning the end of October. A HUGE THANK YOU to the following volunteers that spruced things up: John Fusinetti, Marly Konstant, Tom Longobardi, Jeff Parrett, Richard Hickey, Brad Davidson, Ron

Ted

and Marlyn

Pool Cleanup Day at Flagship

The effulgent glow of Christmas lights at Flagship will most certainly put people in the Christmas spirit and mood for Christmas socials, especially the Flagship Christmas party to be held on Saturday, December 2, at the Helm Club. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Happy Kwanzaa… HAPPY EVERYTHING!!!

Bob and Cathy Allen crossed a big item off their list this June—exploration of a tiny group of islands 600 miles off the Ecuadorian coast, The Galápagos Islands. Their travel “to” the island was riddled with airport frenzy as they had delayed and canceled flights getting out of Ft. Lauderdale to Quito, Ecuador, elevation 9000 feet (an experience unto its own). Bob and Cathy stated, “However, once on the remote islands of the Galápagos it was fascinating. Each day we were anchored at a different island and led by knowledgeable Ecuadorian guides. We crossed the Equator a few times as

Court #1A

Additions:

• Mike & Linda Redmon, 4621 S. Landings Drive, 502-905-4060 & 502-836-7336

• Jim Wagner & Ron Wagner, 4384 Bowsprit Court #1A, 224-619-9247 (Jim) & 847-452-9426 (Ron)

• Linda Ziegler, 4443 W Mainmast Court, 239-482-1486

Villages on page 10

Linda Andrews in Bhutan

Al and Teri Fansler above Jenny Lake

Jean Hokana & Chicky Longobardi Jean jehokana@gmail.com; Chicky EL8552@aol.com.

Garrett,

Shramek

Teeter!

Herchel and Carolyn Avra

Cathy Allen at the Galápagos Islands

Villages from page 9

Longboat

Longboat Village held its first “pool” party of the season at Picnic Pointe on the 23rd of October. It was an enormous success. Forty-three people were in attendance, and it was good to see everyone again. The potluck food included the usual suspects, or should I say fan favorites, and included sliders, chips and dip, a mean cheese roll with pretzels, sausage roll, pizza bread, and more. A dessert table filled with brownies, tiramisu, cookies, and fruit rounded out the buffet.

Ann Power annpower103@gmail.com

It was wonderful to see so many new and familiar faces with the return of our northern residents.

In attendance were two couples that recently joined the

Longboat Village family: Mike Redmon, and his wife Lynda, who purchased the home at 4521 S. Landings, and Christy Norcutt and Steve Wiatroski, who purchased 4625 S. Landings. Ruth Hockert did a wonderful job coordinating the event and the pre-party preparation. She reminded everyone

to mark their calendars for the Christmas “Pool” get together on December 10th at 5 o’clock at Picnic Pointe. On Christmas Day, there will be a potluck breakfast hosted by Cece Loper and Cheryl Tromley at the Longboat pool starting at 10 o’clock in the morning.

On a sadder note, we lost two of our residents in October this year, Richard Nicklass, and Linda Hessler. For those interested, there was a lovely obituary from Linda’s family in the local paper.

Villages on page 11

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3

4 PM Grounds Open | 5 PM Concert Begins | Picnic Pointe Complimentary Admission, Holiday Cookies & Hot Apple Cider

With combined efforts of LYGTC, LYC and LTPA, we bring you a night packed with fun and holiday cheer! LTPA,

Orchestral

(optional) 5-7pm | $20++

Chef Carved Ham with Pineapple Sauce & Turkey Breast with Cranberry Aioli Mini Rolls | Green Beans Potato Salad | Holiday Coleslaw

Mini

Create Your Own Popcorn & Hot Cocoa Bar with Assorted Toppings

By Jean Wik

What: “DEAR BEST FRIEND” LUNCHEON

Where: The Helm Club/ GARDEN ROOM

Once again, we have partnered with the Iona McGregor Fire District to collect toys & clothes for children in our district, ages newborn-12 years old.

Fort Myers Christian Women’s Connection

When: Thursday, December 7, 2023, from 12:00-2:00. Doors open 11:30.

Cost: $28** inclusive. Enjoy delicious ham and sweet potatoes lunch with specialty dessert.

FEATURE: Lost Art of the Written Letter (please bring notepaper or card to participate.)

SPEAKER: Becky Burgue “The Letter That Changed My Life”

Prepaid Reservations of $28 required and must be received by 11/30. No cancellations after this date. Reservations guaranteed upon receipt of payment.

Send checks payable to FMCWC to Barbara Shields, 9500 Mariners Cove Lane, Fort Myers, FL 33919. The luncheon is open to all women, and you are welcome to invite your friends.

Prayer Connection on Thursday, Nov. 30 at 10:00 a.m. For

Cece Loper checking out the buffet Jennifer Bavender and Nataha Benchimol

Left side: Carol Method, Cheryl Tromley, and Bill Ferris. Right side: Richard Worrall and Lindy Worrall

Mariners’ Cove

Lynn & Jon Cisky, after looking all over Florida, came to The Landings and purchased their home in MCV in 20 minutes in 2001. The couple lived on their wooden yacht, The Mahogany, during their first 4 summers.

Pat Benner patharben@aol.com

Jon grew up in Port Huron and was in the Navy from 1958-1963, then worked as a sergeant in the St. Claire County Sheriff Dept. while he attended 6 colleges and graduated from 4. He received an M.A. in Criminal Justice and was a professor at Saginaw Valley State University. He founded the Crime Stoppers in Michigan and served on the Crime Stoppers International Board of Directors 1986-1991, as a Michigan State Senator 1991-99, and as President of MCV from 2001-2004.

Lynn grew up in Canton, Ohio and moved to Saginaw as a teacher of music for 31 years. She met Jon while his children, whom she was teaching, performed in her program. That spring they met in a bar, started dating, and were married 4 months later in 1980. In 2000 on the last day of school, Lynn called Jon and told him she was finished after a great year with two great musicals. She retired and did not sing another note for three years, didn’t listen to any music. When the Ciskys attended their first MCV cocktail party, Jon met Jean Wik and he explained about Lynn’s teaching experience and “burn-out.” Jean said, “Well, we’ll take care of that” and talked Lynn into joining her group, “Jean and Friends,” who sing at local nursing homes. When Jean

Whether you’re looking for a gift for a loved one or thinking about popping the question, we’re here to help make your holiday one to remember.

suggested a lady’s group of singers Lynn recalled her high school lady’s trio and the group “InHarmony” was born, now in its 15th year. Lynn came to love The Landings, and thanks both Jon and Jean for her “music burnout recovery.”

Jon spends his time with golf, poker and playing bongos. Lynn golfs, sings in The Landings chorus, directs and arranges music for “InHarmony,” sings at senior homes and has been chairperson of the Agricultural committee for years.

Riverside

Riversiders kicked off the 2023-24 season with its Welcome Back party on Wednesday, Nov. 8th at Picnic Pointe. New neighbors, snowbirds, and yearrounders mixed, mingled, and enjoyed a beautiful sunset and potluck buffet as everyone was welcomed back to the Riverside nest by President Don Simon. Marilee Simon, Social Committee Chair, reminded everyone to reserve Monday, Dec. 4th on their calendars for the Riverside Christmas Party at the Helm Club.

Kathleen Striggow kathleensstriggow@gmail.com

While out on your daily walks around the neighborhood, you have probably seen Deborah Root out in her yard enjoying our beautiful weather while working on her landscaping. Her flower beds, plantings, and shrubs reflect the time and love that she spends on her gardening. Next time you’re out and about, be sure to stop and appreciate the beautiful succulent bromeliads in the front yard.

Fred and Carol Garner enjoyed the RYC’s first short cruise of the season to Naples for the Dallas, Dynasty, Decadence Cruise on November 6th. Dotty and Alan Fritze, RYC’s short cruise captains, planned the outing. Carol appropriately expressed her enthusiasm for the trip and the new season as follows: “Yay! We’re on the boat again! Our yacht club is so much fun, and filled with 60-somethings, who plan such fun parties!” Well said, Carol!

Ben and Baxter Shelfer spent a great family weekend in Palm Beach Gardens with their daughters Angel, Karen, and Spencer, and Granddaughter, Stuart! Ben says that it was “a thrill to partner with Daughter, Spencer Moorman, and win the National Ultra Senior Father/Daughter Clay Court Tennis Championship again!”

Marilee Simon participated in The Landings’ Holiday Shopping Bazaar on November 7th where she displayed her lovely jewelry. She had many new items, and her inventory was priced to sell as she decided that this is her last year making jewelry.

For over 40 years, Congress

Jim and Mary Pat Willis checked another item off their bucket list when they attended the Colts v. Jaguars game in Jacksonville on Oct. 15th. The couple spent the morning tailgating with fellow Jags friends before the game. While “up north,” they also took trips to St. Augustine, Fernandina, and Hanna Park at Jacksonville Beach.

Sherry and John Winters celebrated 47 wonderful years of marriage on October 23rd at Oxbow Restaurant in downtown Fort Myers. The couple enjoyed a scrumptious dinner while watching the beautiful sunset over the river.