Landing - February 2024 by Seabreeze Communications

12th Annual Landings Music Festival Coming Friday, February 23!!

The biggest entertainment event of the season moves to a Friday this year... our 2024 Landings Music Festival will be held on Friday, February 23, at the Driving Range.

The 12th annual Festival will be another amazing experience, bringing the very best in live entertainment, along with great food, fellowship and all the things that make The Landings special.

The gates open this year at 3 pm with a fun activity to take us to the show opening at 5 pm.

Vocalist and guitarist Rob Hannon opens the Festival with a visit

to Margaritaville and his “It’s 5 O’clock Somewhere” show. One of Florida’s most gifted singer songwriters, Rob brings the fun and music of Margaritaville and the sounds and styles of Jimmy Buffett to get the party started. He was a founding member of Ben Allen Band (of NBC’s The Voice

fame) and toured with Allen for several years. Hannon is stepping out with his own A-List show, and we are delighted to welcome him to The Landings.

Following Rob, the biggest variety show to ever fill the Festival stage will be “Chart Busters,” a musical time machine of the best and most popular hits from the birth of rock and roll right through to

today showcasing all musical styles and sounds. There will truly be something for everyone with over 10 different lead vocalists taking the stage. And, as always, look for some fun and features to enjoy all afternoon and evening.

Once again, the Festival transport shuttle will take you and your guests to and from the Festival with many stops along the way throughout the Community.

With over 1,000 residents and their guests expected at this year’s event, this will be THE party of the season. Bring your lawn chairs, your blanket, and your appetite for some tasty treats and your favorite beverages.

Tickets are available at the Admin office, with discounts for advanced ticket reservations.

Person of Interest – Laurie Hamilton and Third Annual Lee County Girls’ High School Invitational Tournament February 15-17

By Kathy Striggow

Laurie Hamilton is a familiar face for a reason: in 1973, her parents were one of the original property owners in The Landings. The first condominiums on Crossjack Courts were built in Windjammer, the first village constructed. Subsequently, the family built the first house in Lighthouse where Laurie now lives. Although her parents spent considerable time here, Laurie rarely spent more than a few consecutive

days until 2019. As she approached her retirement, she wanted to be close to her sister, Sara.

Laurie’s career was focused in deregulation in the telecom and energy industries. However, her career left little time for her primary interest: giving back to the community through service projects and contributing to causes important to her and her family. After retiring, Laurie had time to devote to these projects. Because the Hamilton family wanted to support young female athletes in Lee County high schools in honor of Sara, the idea for a Girls’ High School Invitational Tennis Tournament was born.

Sara was a nationally ranked tennis player before her health seriously deteriorated. She was a top college player at the Univ. of AZ, a Virginia Slims Futures player, and a 45-year member of USPTA, designated an Elite Professional. Today, Sara lives in a full-time care facility in Fort Myers. As a young player developing her talent, she found it challenging in

her home state of Kansas to find young female tennis players as well as courts to play on. Sara was forced to travel out of state in search of players at a comparable level.

Developing the Invitational Tournament - Women’s tennis has always been important in the

By Becky Ross, Co-Chair Long Range Planning Steering Committee

In a few months The Landings will be rolling out a survey to all owners. It has been more than ten years since we last did a community-wide survey and it’s important that we hear from as many owners as possible. The survey will be administered electronically. That means you will receive an email with a link to the survey and each member owner will be asked to participate. You and your spouse or partner won’t have to share a survey or combine your responses in any way. We want to hear from each of you.

If you don’t have an email registered with The Landings, now is a great time to do it.

If you haven’t received updates from The Landings recently, maybe you accidentally unsubscribed. Let Admin know so you can reactivate your account.

Have you checked your listing in The Landings website Member Central Directory to ensure that the email listed there is one that you still use?

To update your email address with Landings Admin, call 239-482-3211 or email activities@lygtc.com.

Thanks so much! We want to hear from you!!

The Long Range Planning Steering Committee

Rob Hannon and “It’s 5 O’clock Somewhere”

Lighthouse Resident, Laurie Hamilton

Chess And Checkers Club News

By John Winters

The club was thinking about changing the day and time of our meetings; the executive committee decided to leave it as is. We will continue to meet Tuesday mornings 10 a.m. to noon.

In last month’s article, there was mention of “expert” and “master” chess players. Under the system used in the United States, an “expert” has a rating between 2000 and 2199. (Our club champion, Tom Poulos, was above 2000 at one time when he was playing in tournaments.)

Person of Interest from page 1

Landings and SWFL. The spirit of reaching out into the greater community is a tradition at The Landings, and this invitational is another example. The 12 hard-tru or clay courts are an asset that residents are willing to share.

The family presented the idea of a tennis invitational for Lee County high school female athletes to Landings tennis management, and they supported the first one in 2022. The initial proposal targeted public schools, reflecting the Hamilton family’s background. The aim of the tournament was encouraging high school aged girls to play sports, while building friendships and developing trust and camaraderie among the players.

The 2022 Tournament - A volunteer leadership committee worked with the Lee County High School Administration in planning the inauguration event. High schools were invited to form or name a team of four players to enter the tournament at no cost to each school. Eight high schools participated.

Singles and doubles were played over three days, and awards given to winners and runners-up in both draws. A Sportsmanship Award named for Sara Hamilton was also given to an individual player. The Hamilton Trust made a cash contribution of $500 to each participating school. The tournament was a success, and Landings residents, high school coaches, and athletic directors enjoyed the inaugural event.

The 2023 Tournament - Piggybacking on the success of the first tournament, planning for the 2023 event progressed until Hurricane Ian threw a wrench into the process. Damage to many of the area high schools and property in The Landings, and school funding limitations necessitated adjustments to the previous format. Five Lee County high schools brought teams of four to The Landings. Individual players from Lee County high schools were also permitted

The category above “expert” is “master.” You must be at 2200 and above to be a “master.” (I remember about 50 years ago Bobby Fischer was the top player in the world at about 2600. Now there are many players who are in the 2700’s and even in the 2800’s.)

When I was playing in chess tournaments, if I beat someone with a ranking higher than mine, my ranking went up (and my ranking went down if I got beat by someone with a lower ranking). I was inching closer and closer to 1400 when I stopped playing in tournaments. I jokingly told people I was about half as good as Bobby Fischer. Under the system used in the U.S. if your ranking is 1200, then you are at the 50th

to enter if their school was unable to field a team.

Singles and doubles were played over three days and awards were given to the winners and runners-up. A sportsmanship award was again presented. The Hamilton Trust contributed $500 to each participating school. Initiated for the first time, The DELTA grant (Develop and Enhance Lee County Tennis Athletes), funded by residents of The Landings and tournament sponsors, was awarded to two Lee County high schools based on a grant application. Ida Baker and Mariner High Schools each received an award of $750.

2024 – A Year of Transition and Growth – After discussions and review of the 2022 and 2023 tournaments, a decision was made that the Universal Tennis Rating System (UTR) was the perfect juncture of opportunity and support that met the goals for both The Landings community and the players. The UTR offers college recruiters a universal ratings invitational opportunity for competitive players to showcase their talents well beyond the local Lee County Public Schools. ONLY the Lee County Public Schools’ programs will continue receiving proceeds from the event.

In 2024, there will be 4 days of consecutive play with singles and doubles draws, and an in-person event hosted at The Landings with renowned national and international female player, Melanie Oudin. Melanie is a former WTA #31 ranked player, and US Open Mixed Doubles Champion. Her presentation will include her experience on the professional tour, and the challenges of recovering and continuing to play following a devastating injury. Melanie retired from the professional tour in 2017, and now coaches full-time in Atlanta. She has coached at various USTA development camps, including national, regional, and southern camps.

Future Sustainability of the Event - The life of the event is at a pivotal point. As the invitational continues gaining traction, and continues with the support of The Landings and

percentile (half of the chess players are below you and half are above; you are an average chess player).

We are planning to invite beginners to attend a club meeting. Beginners are always welcome to attend all our meetings, but we’ll have a special day for them in February. We are also planning another “simultaneous tournament” in March when our club champion, Tom Poulos, will play all comers simultaneously. Last year, he played against ten opponents and beat them all (including me).

Our club membership now stands at 30. Two more to go to meet our goal of increasing from 22 to 32. Way to go!

Don’t forget to protect your king!

the community, the outlook for its future is optimistic. There is a committed advisory team in place that will allow Laurie the opportunity of shifting her role from direct involvement to a consultative function.

The new features incorporated into the 2024 tournament are exciting. The heightened role of The Landings reinforces its position as a community leader. Players from outside Lee County are invited to participate. There are also more competitive draws, and heightened profiles of college-bound players.

Looking toward to the future, the use of the UTR system, the continual expansion to high schools beyond the local area, and an amplified awareness of the event through furtherreaching marketing efforts, bodes well for the tournament’s increasing professional status, and future of this event. By raising the denominator and heightening the bar, the hope is that The Landings will be recognized for sponsoring quality professional events, like Madisen’s Match, scheduled here March 10, and other Pro-Am tournaments.

Conclusion – While Laurie admits she does not play at the level of her sister, Sara, she plays on a 3.0 minus team, The Volley Girls, where she is learning to be a teammate, not a leader. She enjoys the social friendships of talented, engaging women who do not share her background. It is humbling, and she cherishes her time with all these women.

When she is not in Florida, Laurie splits her time between her farmstead in the Flint Hills of Kansas, and at her projected full-time retirement home in Santa Fe, NM. You may see Laurie around the campus walking her faithful companion, Spencer. Spencer is a retired, cream Labrador, trained by Canine Companions, that was a full-service partner to a disabled Marine veteran while he worked.

Laurie highly recommends that Landings residents spend time at this year’s tournament watching the matches and/or attending Melanie Oudin’s inspiring presentation. The event is a credit to the entire Landings community, and it deserves our support.

General Manager’s Report

December

21, 2023

• We completed the repairs to the Helm ramp handrails on the tennis side of the Helm building.

• We have ordered replacement banquet chairs and Compass Rose bar and dining room chairs. The bar chairs have been installed, and the chairs for the dining room and Ladies Lounge are to ship the week after Christmas. We are still waiting on the delivery date for the banquet chairs.

• The new pool furniture has been partly received, with the second half of the shipment coming right after January 1st.

• We contracted for the study to determine what is needed to improve the Wi-Fi 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 floorplan and performed the test phase to identify the Wi-Fi needs but found that the test was not completed correctly

Financial Report

November 2023 Summary

The Landings Yacht, Golf & Tennis Club for the month had revenues that exceeded budget by $81.9k and was short to budget at GOP by ($46.8k). As noted in the October report, many large purchases and repairs were not completed in October, showing an unusually large positive variance to budget, which would cause November to be below budgeted profit and come back in line YTD. Food and Beverage revenue was better than budget $7.8k and department profit was below budget ($46.2k). Golf revenue was better than budget by $7.3k, and department profit/loss was lower than budget ($6.5k). Tennis was $2.4k above budgeted revenue and profit for the month was lower than budget by ($2.4k).

The Marina experienced another good month in revenue, with revenues exceeding budget by $48.8k and profit was better than budget by $25.6k. For the current period ending November 30, 2023, total revenues came in at $1,115,768 versus a budget of $1,033,805 for a positive variance of $81,963. Gross Operating

& Green Book Changes: Happy

Landings

February Issue, 2024

Clip & save these Up to date through: December 23, 2023

Deletions:

• Synnie Cummings, 4616 S. Landings Drive #13

• George Munkwitz, 4608 Flagship Drive

• William & Christine O’Hare, 4250 Steamboat Bend #205

• Judith Scott, 4396 Bowsprit Court #4E

• Carol Urban, 4120 Steamboat Bend East #103 Additions:

• Howard Harrison & Elizabeth Burns, 4616 S. Landings Drive #13 239-281-7382 & 239-281-7381

• Charles & Mitzi Knight, 4396 Bowsprit Court #4E 740-802-3579 & 979-218-4686

• Judith Schreiber, 4120 Steamboat Bend East #103 631-523-8200

• Thomas & Anne Sullivan, 4250 Steamboat Bend #205

• Carolyn Wilson, 4608 Flagship Drive 239-433-1620

and is being re-done so we can make the needed improvements to the system. Eventually, the same process will be done for the Wheelhouse building.

• The Administration lake fountain has been repaired. After this repair, we will be replacing our current fountain vendor as service is not acceptable.

• We have finished the landscaping repairs/replacements at the Marina east end parking lots, the buffer along the canal opposite Ariel, and the back gate. This completes all hurricane related 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

Profit for the month was $55,598 compared to a budget profit of $102,399 for a negative variance to budget of ($46,801). YTD Gross Operating Profit is better than budget by $15,310.

Operational Departments: For the month, operational departments performance was mixed, with Food and Beverage unfavorable to budget by ($46,221) in departmental profit/(loss). Golf Department was short to budget with loss of ($6,457) in departmental profit/(loss). Tennis Department P/L was short to budget for the month by ($2,379). Marina Department was up to profit for the month by $25,650 in departmental profit/(loss).

Overhead Departments: Combined, overhead departments were over budgeted expectations with a variance to budget of a combined ($31,128). Administration Department was over budget by ($2,035) with a marginal percentage of 8.9% to a budget of 9.4%. Community Patrol Department was over budget by (3,511) with a marginal percentage of 4.3% to a budget of 4.3%. Golf Course Maintenance Department was over budget by ($11,304) with a marginal percentage of 9.2% to a budget of 8.8%. Property Maintenance Department was also over budget by ($11,684) with a marginal percentage of 7.5% to a budget of

up on line and also sign up on line for dining reservations in both restaurants. It will be much easier to navigate. We had targeted the third week of December to go live, providing everything moved forward as it has been, but alas we needed to make some changes that will push that timing back a bit. We will provide further updates as we get closer to going live.

• We are working to replace the water line for the marina car wash station, and the air compressor has arrived. Maintenance is working on the piping and connections now.

• We have painted the marina restroom in the east parking lot and the pavilion at Picnic Pointe is in process now. These will then match the eventual painting color for the Wheelhouse.

• As part of our previously planned improvements to the Wheelhouse, we replaced the dishwasher and just received the new Pizza Oven which will be installed after January 1.

• In tennis, we replaced the bench/table combos with new, and replaced the trash receptacles around the complex.

• HAPPY NEW YEAR!

7.0%. Utilities came in over budget by ($2,592) with a marginal percentage of 2.8% to a budget of 2.8%.

Net Income before Depreciation and Amortization: The club’s net income before depreciation and amortization was positive $4,690 vs. a budget of positive $45,992, unfavorable to budget by ($41,302).

Balance Sheet: The club’s cash position as of the month end is $207,433 in Operating Funds. $467,528 in Reserves and $562,506 in Infrastructure Funds (which includes funds from insurance claims for the Wheelhouse).

Delinquent Accounts: The club’s accounts receivable balance as of 11/30/2023 was $979,987.55 with 6 accounts being deemed delinquent for $106,119.78.

Capital Contributions: During the month, the Club had capital contribution funds of $64,000, with 10 sales and 3 refunds.

Wheelhouse Reconstruction Update – January 8, 2024

By Joe Bavender

Landings neighbors, here are the latest updates on the Wheelhouse reconstruction project:

The Cupola, the top structure that houses the mechanical fixtures on the roof, has had all the new shutters installed. This took some time as customization was necessary in the installation process. They will be painted once the exterior construction of the Wheelhouse is completed.

A new concrete pad will be poured to create a mechanical yard next to the patio. This will be used to install the brand new Aaon air handling unit that was ordered. This unit uses the latest technology and will improve the air conditioning of the Wheelhouse. In addition, a new fabric air distribution system is being ordered instead of the originally proposed spiral ducting system. This new technology will improve ventilation precision and efficiency, eliminating any condensation, while also reducing noise, AND reducing our construction costs by tens of thousands of dollars.

All interior and exterior furniture and the new bar equipment has been ordered. The large exterior 16’ X 16’

shade structures are currently being manufactured and the new pizza oven has been delivered. If you have not seen them yet, the full-color renderings of the furnishings for the restaurant and the bar are on display in the entrance of the Helm Club.

A template for the new curved bar should be delivered within the next two weeks. This template will be used to lay out the concrete for the raised portion of the bar, along with laying out and installing the necessary plumbing.

The drawings for the new Hurricane rated windows for the store front were submitted to Vantage, the construction manager for the project. Upon reviewing the drawings there were some slight modifications that were necessary. Those modifications have been re-submitted.

Universal Engineering was hired to expedite the permitting process. They work directly with our Architects and Civil engineers to review the plans and drawings, to identify any potential issues that could slow down permitting from the County. By all observations, they have been very thorough in this process. Although it is difficult to identify the exact

LLGA-18 Ladies’ Golf Happenings!

By Mary Ann Spry

A full month of activity is in store for our league in the New Year. “Welcome Back” to those members who are just joining us for the winter season.

Three clubs and a putter will be one of our favorite formats this month. Funny how that works out to be one of your better games with so few clubs. Do we overthink the game once in a while?

Member/Guest Day is a special part of January and we have always encouraged everyone to invite someone from outside The Landings or a resident who is not a league member but maintains a handicap. The format is usually a 2-person team event and we always look forward to the special lunch selections created by our outstanding culinary staff. We had some winners this past month in a scramble where scores were separated by a 10th of a percent among the top

four teams. The first-place team included Nancy Nowak, Sarah Noyes and Kay Owen. Yes, a 3-some where each player had to take turns teeing off for the missing fourth! Congrats for some great playing ladies. Linda Tucker, Ann Croft, and Gayle Braffett were winners in the “Odd Holes Only” format! Note that 12 and 18 were not there!! Yeah!!! Always a challenge. Low Gross winners in our “Santa Picks” play were Karen Shelton, Barb Shulte, Nancy Yavorsky, and Gretchen Phillips in 4 Flights respectively. Stableford play is a 2-person format that some players love to play so we will see how that goes this Wednesday with cold temps again predicted!

The “Presidents Cup” is our annual handicap tournament to be held mid-month. We will have results for you for this special 2-day challenge in the next issue of Happy Landings

We thank Rocky and his crew for taking such care in keeping the course in terrific condition. With all the rain, it is a challenge to keep us all happy yet protect the course in some extreme weather conditions. We are so lucky to have such a dedicated maintenance crew.

Have a great month of golf & don’t forget your Valentine!

LMGA: Around The Greens

By Bentley Collins

One of the highlights of the LMGA season for many members is the Annual Stag Day tournament which takes place on January 29th this year. We’ll have a full report with images on this event in our next issue. Also, on the calendar in January are the LYGTC Club Championships (separate from to LMGA League Championships) and another Night Golf on the 23rd of January. Always plenty of golf to play at The Landings.

Not an LMGA story specifically but during the last week of December, LMGA member Jim Cairns and his wife Kim both had holes-in-one. Different days and different golf holes but nonetheless quite an achievement. Congrats to them both! Meanwhile our monthly board meetings continue with brisk discussions about current schedules, events and rules and regulations. Some time ago, when I was serving as President of the LMGA, I asked Matt Coneys if he would consider acting as our head handicapper: a job that has not been easy to fill over the years. But, with a new oversight of the rounds we all play, and the reports Matt can extract

Fort

By Jean Wik

What: “QUARTER AUCTION

FUNDRAISER” LUNCHEON

Where: The Helm Club/MAIN DECK

When: Thursday, February 1, 2024, from 12:00-2:00. Doors open at 11:30. The cost is $28 inclusive. Enjoy a delicious Italian Chicken cutlet w/rice and specialty dessert.

from the Golf Hits system, he can quickly recognize if any member has not been posting their scores, contact them and get them up to date. It’s a thankless job so please, next time you see Matt, thank him for all the effort he has put in to make our handicap system as accurate as it is today.

At our December meeting the board created a new policy for folks who withdraw from a tournament after the closing date for signups on Foretees. Exceptions are possible if there is a wait list for the event and will be decided on a case-bycase basis.

Finally, at the January meeting the board voted to cease the use of “mulligans” in all LMGA events. Joe Wolcin presented a very good case for the integrity of our scoring systems and the validity of all competition where awards are given.

Last but not least, we are heading into our busiest time of the year, so I remind all golfers to be polite to our hardworking staff and follow the golf dress code and other rules. Hit ‘em straight!

FEATURE: Bring your quarters for a fun-filled fundraiser for Stonecroft Ministries

SPEAKER: Sylvia Weeks-Wedge shares “WHO AM I?”

Prepaid Reservations of $28 are required and must be received by 1/25.

No cancellations after this date. Reservations guaranteed when payment is received.

Send check/s payable to FMWC to Barbara Shields, 9500 Mariners Cove Lane, Fort Myers, FL 33919. Luncheons are open to all women, and you are welcome to invite friends. Prayer Connection: 02/29/24 - 10 AM – Donna Munizzi’s home, 12740 Yacht Club Circle. For more information: Marrikka Stockman 239-218-5992, Marrikka.stockman@gmail.com

The Golf Corner

By Pete Sherman “GOLF PROs RAVE over LYGTC Course”

On Friday December 1, 2023, the Landings hosted a Pro-Am tournament that raised well over $7,000 for the benefit of Lee County Youth Golf programs. Besides our in-house duo of Zach Cooper and Steve Carney, eighteen professionals from Southwest Florida, including Janet Kernan of FGCU, participated. Every one of the outside pros commented on what fantastic shape our course was in and how difficult it played with the narrow fairways, water hazards and fast greens. Rocky and his staff deserve our accolades. Each professional captained a team which included three golfers from The Landings. Two competitions were

Presentation of the big check with Paul Fitzpatrick (Tournament Director of Southwest Florida Junior Golf Assoc), Cathy Steeves, Chase Marinell (Founder of Suncoast Junior Tour), and Zach Cooper

to the hole. Luke Farmer won that competition with a very fine four under par score. Luke’s older brother, Garrett, is one of the friendly faces helping us in and around the cart barn. Speaking of the cart barn, Austin Rei, a Cart Barn alumnus, is now the assistant professional at West Bay. He led his team to victory in the team portion of the competition. Apparently a ladies’ man, his team consisted of Marilyn Harlan, Lauralee Cantlon & Gayle Braffett, which ran away with the top prize.

underway simultaneously. The format for the team portion of the competition was a Shamble / two best ball net, which means that all members of the team hit a tee shot and from the best shot, everyone plays their own ball into the hole. The professional portion of the competition involved the pros only, who were required to play their own ball from the tee

One would be remiss if no mention was made of the Draft Party held the night before the competition in the Garden Room, hosted by Zach and Steve with a member bar and fantastic hors d’oeuvres. Its purpose was to pair the amateur teams with their randomly selected pro. It was decided that it would be appropriate to allow the amateur teams to bid on several of the pros to raise additional funds for the cause. Zach Cooper was a favorite, but Steve Carney raised more money than anyone and finally Bentley Collins outbid everyone (including Wally Duncan) to secure Steve’s expertise for their team. Steve didn’t let the team down and helped them to a second-to-last finish.

A good time was had by all, and a very successful fundraising effort was achieved. We all are looking forward to next year’s event.

Landings Fishing Club

Thy Rod And Thy Staff

By LeRoy Fleming

Garrett Farmer has a passion that centers on imagination and curiosity, not to mention dedication that surges toward excellence. He has rod in hand and carries many staffs. Garrett can be found at the golf cart barn taking care of Landings members, swinging their shafts to play golf. Nevertheless, his passion is taking rod in hand to challenge the best anglers in five southern states to catch his favorite target—the largemouth Bass.

Forty-five minutes passed quickly but LFC members were glued to their seats. Listening to find out how to use which tackle, strength of line, finesse the lure, and land that big one. An excellent presentation was punctuated by multiple questions and straight answers. Preferring fresh water fishing to salt water, Garrett has won several tournaments. Trophies and money helped pay for the fishing trips and overhead costs for lures, lines, rods, & gas for the boat. Tournaments have entry fees ranging from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars…

putting his pride and passion on the line. If you want a local guide (Garrett is the person on the right in the photo), call Farmer Fishing Charters or just walk over to the golf cart barn and talk to the Captain in person.

Garrett Farmer from Farmer Fishing Charters was the guest speaker at the January LFC speaking about freshwater fishing for Peacock Bass, Large Mouth Bass and Snook! February guest speaker will be his brother, Luke Farmer, who will talk on salt-water fishing.

“I Just Don’t Believe That…”

Dear friend,

When I meet people in town, they usually say, “Oh, yeah, I know you, you’re that doctor with the beard on TV.” Well, perhaps I should tell you a little more about myself, the picture from television and why I use it in my ads.

Let’s start with me, the guy with the beard. Ten years ago I was living here in Florida. At that time my mother was down visiting from New Jersey for the season when she showed up in my clinic with a frozen shoulder. She was desperate and in pain having lost practically all use of her dominant arm. She could hardly fix her hair, reach for a coffee cup or even fasten her brassiere. Basic hygiene had become extremely difficult for her. She was afraid, because the two orthopedic surgeons that she had consulted told her, “Your only option is to have your shoulder replaced.” I remember saying to my mother, “I just don’t believe that.”

Now at that time I was a chiropractor who worked primarily on the spine. Frankly… I didn’t know how I was going to help her. I just knew there was a nonsurgical solution out there and I was going to find it.

And boy did I find it! I found the answer to my mother’s shoulder problem and much, much more. And where did I find it? Of all places, I found it at the birthplace of Elvis Presley, Tupelo, Mississippi. Immediately I hopped on a plane and flew into Memphis, rented a car and drove out to a chiropractic neurologist who was willing to teach me how to fix my mother’s frozen shoulder. I spent three days in his clinic shadowing him, learning a new technique I had never even heard about before. Eager to help my mother, I developed this new skill set quickly. When I returned to Florida I wanted to be able to immediately fix my mother’s shoulder.

And that’s exactly what happened. After I performed the first Non-Surgical Operation on her shoulder, her pain went away significantly and she recovered to nearly full range of motion. She was so happy that she avoided surgery and got her life back.

It’s strange how life is, because that same doctor who showed me how to fix my mother’s shoulder opened up his treasure chest of knowledge and showed me how to help people with chronic knee, neck, low back pain and those suffering with neuropathy in their hands and feet, all without the use of Drugs, Surgery or Injections.

I spent the next several months flying back and forth to Mississippi learning all that I could.

Many years later we now have over one thousand successful patient testimonials. Many of them were told by their doctors that their only option was to have their knee or shoulder replaced or to take toxic drugs for the rest of their lives to mask their neuropathy symptoms.

Al was one of those patients who was told he had ‘bone on bone’ degeneration. His knee stopped unlocking properly, similar to what I’m describing in the photo, and he was facing knee replacement surgery. He was suffering from chronic degenerative knee pain, couldn’t walk properly and was easily holding onto 60 pounds of excess body weight. His doctors would have eagerly scheduled him for a knee replacement surgery had he decided to go in that direction.

Immediately after the Non-Surgical Operation I performed on Al’s knee, he was squatting and walking up and down the stairs normally without pain.

Al is now in his early 70s touring Alaska in his RV. He has dropped over 60 pounds and is biking 15 - 20 miles per day and loving life. He regularly sends me great pictures from his adventures.

Joyce was told by her oncologist, “There’s nothing that can be done.” She would have to live with the chemo-induced neuropathy in her hands and feet. Hot and cold were indistinguishable and the numbness and tingling made it impossible for her to walk any distance.

Joyce was a cancer survivor only to have come out on the other side with another debilitating condition. She and her husband showed up in my clinic and told me what their medical doctor had said. I told her the same thing I told my mother, “I just don’t believe that.”

After a thorough neurological examination and report of findings she trusted me enough to follow my protocols. Within two weeks her numbness and tingling in her feet subsided and the feeling was coming back.. After 12 weeks she was feeling the sand between her toes as she walked along the beach again. At her one year checkup Joyce’s sensory loss had improved over 80% overall to within the normal range… She is all smiles these days!

You should know that I don’t heal anyone of anything. What I do is perform a specific non-surgical operation that resets the communication between the brain and knee or shoulder, instantly decreasing pain and inflammation, increasing strength and flexibility and helping with tissue healing. For our neuropathy patients we have a 4 step, proven approach that heals your nerves and reverses your symptoms. We get tremendous results. It’s as simple as that!We get tremendous results. It’s as simple as that!

Today in the United States medical doctors are prescribing more drugs than ever before. These drugs are designed to cover up symptoms as your condition gets worse underneath the surface. The toxicity from the daily use of these chemicals ultimately leads to nasty side-effects and more drugs to treat the new symptoms. The current “healthcare” system was built to maintain your condition, not fix it. It’s a brilliant business model for the pharmaceutical industry and the hospitals, but a horrible strategy to follow if one is looking to age gracefully.

That’s where my practice comes in. I have found a way so that more people are able to afford the treatment they need, even those on a fixed income with or without health insurance coverage. One Non-Surgical Operation in my clinic could cost what you’d pay for just the deductible of a joint replacement surgery.

You Benefit from a Unique Offer…When you bring in this article, you will receive a FREE CONSULTATION with me to determine whether you are a good candidate for our Non-Surgical Knee or Shoulder Operation. If you’re being seen for Neuropathy we will take a thermal image of your feet at no charge to you. This will give me enough information to know whether I can help you. Once we determine you’re a good candidate and you feel comfortable in my clinic the complete examination is only $197. That’s it, for the entire neurological examination & report of findings. This examination & report could cost you over $500 elsewhere. But, please

call right away because this offer expires on February 29, 2024, and I don’t want you to miss out. By the way, further care is very affordable and you’ll be happy to know that the non-surgical, drug free therapies and procedures performed in my clinic can cost as little as $300 per month. You see, I’m not trying to seduce you to come see me with this low start up fee, then to only make it up with high fees after that. Further care is very important to consider when making your choice of doctor because higher costs can add up very quickly.

“You shouldn’t be forced to choose drugs and surgery just because that’s the only treatment medicare and your insurance company will cover.”

You should know a little about my qualifications. That’s important so that there’s no misunderstanding about the quality of care. I’m the bestselling author of Breaking The Cycle - how to take control of your life when traditional medicine has failed. An amazon #1 new release in three categories. I’m a graduate of Life University School of Chiropractic practicing since 1998. I am a licensed chiropractic physician certified in functional neurology. I’ve been entrusted to take care of avid morning walkers, pro-athletes and business tycoons you may have heard of.

My office is called Active Health Brain & Body and it is located at 6710 Winkler Road, Suite #1. It’s the gray Key West-style building at the corner of Cypress Lake Drive and Winkler Road behind the Bank of America. The phone number is 239-482-8686. Please call my wonderful assistants Megan or Silvia today to make an appointment.

I wish you the Very Best in Health and Life!

Dr. Rob Davis, DC

P.S. When accompanied by the first, I am also offering the second family member this same examination for only $97.

P.P.S. Your time is as valuable to you as mine is to me. That’s why I have a “no wait” policy. It is highly unusual to wait more than a few minutes in my office.

his story of how he avoided a total knee replacement surgery.

My mother and I featured in a local publication for nonsurgical shoulder solutions.

Joyce is all smiles at her one year checkup. No more neuropathy!

Madisen’s Match Returns To The Landings

Match proudly returns to The Landings on Sunday, March 10, 2024.

You’re invited to join some of the most storied tennis legends, including former U.S. Davis Cup Team Captain Tom Gullikson, French Open Doubles Champion Luke Jensen,

You also have the rare opportunity to play with and against the Legends in the Legends Pro-Am. Space is very limited for this very special tennis experience being hosted only at The Landings!

ranked Mikael

doubles world ranked Don Johnson, and

as they share their knowledge of the game in the Legends Tennis Camp.

On The First Day Of Christmas My True Love

Gave To Me; A Birdie On A Par 3!

By Michele Cavanagh

In December we started with a Shamble. Each person took their tee shot and then the group went to the best shot and played their own game from there in. The next week was play your own game. There is one of these each month. One of our new league guidelines is that all players must play at least 2 “play your own rounds” in the league during the season. This will help to ensure that our handicaps are realistic and provide for fair play during the other weeks.

Week three was our Holiday Lunch and Scramble game with the ability to purchase sandies and mulligans. Many of us donned red, green and white or Christmas characters costumes to play on this chilly morning. We all really appreciated that Justin took a drive on the 5th hole for those who played on the front 9 and Steve graciously took the shot over the water on 18. We posted some respectable scores on 5 and 18. It was a Christmas miracle!

Our fantastic lunch was organized by Lauralee Cantlon, Mary Rea and Pat Daniels. Jean Szczurek did a lovely tribute to honour Pat O’Donnel. The group InHarmony entertained us with Christmas carols including a golf themed Twelve Days of Christmas. Each golfer was gifted with a beautiful gift tag that was made from upcycled junk materials. Thank you to Pat Daniels and Mary Rea for creating these treasures. Golfers who had a tag that said “Wishing you an evergreen Christmas” were invited to stand and then they had to decide if they wanted to keep or give away their tag. Those that chose to give theirs away were rewarded with a sleeve of golf balls. Carol Cisky graciously volunteered to collect cash and food for the Gladiolus Food Bank. 9-Holers once again were generous in their donations. Towards the end of December a small number of ladies enjoyed a Las Vegas Scramble and a T, S, and N Scramble where only holes that begin with those letters are counted. Thank you to our December hostesses Lauralee Cantalon and Julie Iverson!

Net proceeds from Madisen’s Match events will go to support the pediatric oncology programs at the Golisano Children’s Hospital. Madisen’s Match was started by Duane Chaney in 2009 after the diagnosis of an inoperable brain tumor in Duane’s three-year old niece, Madisen. Having seen firsthand how devastating a tumor diagnosis can be on a family, Duane set out to raise money for pediatric and adult charities.

For the past 13 years, Madisen’s Match has brought current and former world class tennis players to Southwest Florida to raise funds for the pediatric and adult cancer treatment programs of Lee Health. To date, Madisen’s Match has raised over $1.4 million for these worthy causes.

Madisen’s Match proudly returns to The Landings for the first time since 2017. Our goal this year is to raise funds to provide continued support for the “Madisen’s Match/Landings Community Playroom” located in the Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida.

We look forward to seeing you at Madisen’s Match and thank you for your continued support!

To learn more about participation and sponsorship opportunities, please visit the event’s website at www. MadisensMatch.com/Landings.

Dressed in their finest Christmas Colors from left to right are. Anne Murray, Bonnie Fritch, Kathy Brown, Rosanne Fukushima, Peggy Morlenad, Michele Cavanagh and Santa

InHarmony Singers from left to right, Lynn Cisky, Maria Aponte, Kelli Vestal, Carol Downing and Pat Daniels with Joe Labuta on the keyboards

Madisen’s

former World Top 10 singles

Pernfors,

Bridge Club Wraps Up 2023, Moves Into 2024

With Lessons, Online, And Tournament Play

By Bill Ferris

January through March are the peak months for the lessons program offered by Wanda Jacobs on Thursdays from 11-12:30, and Saturdays from 2-4:30. Charges are minimal and often cover materials. Call Wanda at 239-209-1589 or email her at wandajacobs304@ gmail.com for details. You can also consult flyers and bulletins at many buildings around campus.

Landings members can become involved in any of our regular games scheduled on Tuesday mornings at Ariel, or Thursday evenings at the Helm Club. Not all of these are sanctioned duplicate games, but all are social and fun. Many of our players also play online on BBO where we have special arrangements with various virtual clubs, and

2024

at sanctioned tournaments such as those recently held in Sanibel, Bradenton, Boca Raton, Orlando, and other venues.

The table below shows the masterpoint results of the top 20 of our 54 members who scored in Monday bridge during the first 3 months of the 2023-24 season (October, November, and December). In 11 weeks of Fall bridge, sixteen different

Dave Hutson 8.52

Jerry Poissant 6.79

Lennart Lindqvist 5.53

Bill Rush 4.5

Linda Lahti 8.46

Dennis Nahnsen 5.96

John Coker 5.12

Sue Wotton 4.44

pairs came in first at either North-South or East-West. One pair even had a 76 percent game.

Despite our continuing morning hours of 7:45 a.m. through about noon every Monday (with Christmas and New Year’s Day off), in the Garden Room at the Helm Club, we equaled our November 2022 table count of ten tables per week and

Bill Ferris 7.75

Linda Loggio 5.71

Marina Kotch 5.12

John Berkaw 4.39

7.32

K. Abrinder 5.53

Birdt 4.37 L. Andekar 4.26 A. Andekar 4.26

Barb Coneys 4.14

SE RIES SPEAKEr

WEALTH & LIFESTYLE

TRENDS

Please join us this season to hear from outstanding speakers, known nationwide for their thought-provoking programs.

Gold Medal Memories and a Look to Paris 2024

Sanibel O ce | 2450 Periwinkle Way

Wednesday, March 6 | 9:30 am Continental Breakfast | 10:00 am Program

Rowdy Gaines, Olympic Gold Medalist Swimmer

The three-time Olympic gold medalist swimmer and member of the U.S. Olympic and International Swimming Halls of Fame comes to Sanibel, to tell tales from his competitive swimming days, and his view from the press box for the past 30 years as NBC’s swimming analyst.

Lessons of Abe Lincoln: How Eﬀective Leadership Can Change the World

Tribby Arts Center – Shell Point | 17281 On Par Blvd

Wednesday, March 13 | 9:30 am Continental Breakfast | 10:00 am Program

Dr. Louis P. Masur | Board of Governors, Distinguished Professor of American Studies and History, Rutgers University

In today’s world, what can we learn from Lincoln to manage our current conﬂicts? How can we become more effective leaders in our workplace and community?

exceeded December 2022 at about 9 for December 2023. We have room for up to about 12 tables, so we’re hoping to reach that number in January, February, or March. Come early in the morning and take the afternoon off!

Deb Root

G. Hildebrand 4.73

Lynne

Ron & Pat Bailer 4.08

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

Sunset Cove

By Denise Schulze

Greg Errard is the new President of Sunset Cove. As I thought our residents would like to know a little bit about this amazing man, I asked him a few questions.

Sunset Harbor

Denise Schulze sunsetcovenews@gmail.com

1) What is one of your most prized possessions? I own a 1970 Corvette. I have owned it longer than I have known my wife if that says anything about it. I met my wife in 1978 and the car predates her.

2) What is something on your bucket list? My wife and I have done some traveling, but not as extensive an amount as some folks. On the list is going to Italy. I hope we can make that happen.

3) Who is the most important person in your life? Yikes, let’s see. If I don’t say my wife LeAnne, I think I’m in trouble!

4) What cheers you up? Truthfully, I don’t really need a lot of cheering up as generally I’m a positive, upbeat person. I’d say spending time with my family and friends doing group activities. I like to be around people.

5) What do you do to relax? One of my favorite times is fishing in Northern Wisconsin on secluded lakes with nature, one hand on my fishing rod, and the other with a Bottle Bass. (That’s code for beer for those non-fishing folks.)

6) What’s the phone app you use the most? Hmm. . .That’s tough. I have about 200 apps on my phone, and yes, they all have a purpose. ESPN would be right up there so I can keep track of sports.

7) Do you live by any words of wisdom? “Treat people like you would like to be treated.”

8) What is your “go to” midnight snack? That’s easy. I don’t eat snacks after 8:00 p.m. I try to listen to the medical field on that one.

9) What is your least favorite chore around the house? Cleaning windows. Fortunately, LeAnne does 95% of the window cleaning, so I’m lucky. I do the lanai sliding glass doors.

10) Do you collect anything? I don’t really do it actively anymore, but I still do coin collecting, and I have all my old baseball cards from the glory days.

11) What is one piece of advice you will never forget? There are two of them. “You are never wrong to do the right thing,” and “fail to plan, plan to fail.” Thank you, Greg!

The Christmas Holidays were fantabulous. It was so much fun meeting the families of so many of our residents who came down to spend their vacations in our beautiful little piece of paradise. Many residents also traveled to visit with their families as well. George and Ann Parke took off for the west coast and spent their time in Irvine, California. They had the extreme pleasure of attending a performance of “Nutcracker” where their two granddaughters starred as performers. Ella, the 14-year-old, was chosen to be “Clara” and Ashley, their 12-year-old, was an entertainer. What a special performance it was!

Breaking news from The Landings Golf Course! Susie Scharber has done it again. Another hole in one. Susie has now had a hole in one on 11 of the Landings 18 holes. Susie shot her round in the 60’s. When interviewed she exclaimed that if it’s any colder than that, she doesn’t play! As Yogi has proclaimed, that record will stand until it is broken. Susie’s partner, Steve Scharber, also had an unbelievable round. He opened a fresh dozen balls which he received as a gift for Christmas and managed to hit all of them in the water. Even on hole

Steve managed to find the Schooner Village pool.

Liyi Chen and her son, Sunny, experienced a superb service and exquisite meal at the new Robot Asian Restaurant. After they arrived at the venue, a computer greeted them and directed them to their table. Robby the waiter then rolled up and explained the menu. It took their order and then returned serving their delicious meal. Liyi & Sunny were so pleased with the service they left a AAA battery tip for Robby and a can of WD 40.

Trawler

Trawler Village Rests from Holiday Season - It was a wonderful holiday season at Trawler Village, as always. The Christmas Party Potluck was held Wednesday, December 20, 2023, at the pool. Everyone brought a dish to share, a wrapped gift of $10-$15 for a voluntary Left-Right-Center version of Trawler’s gift swap game and a Christmas trivia challenge. We can all look forward to our winter season, hopefully filled with fun and joy.

Before we move on, we would like to thank all Trawler residents who volunteered for holiday events. Santa’s elves had a lot of fun decorating the

on page 11

thealster6@gmail.com

Villages

Liyi Chen and Pete Gaffney petergaffney8899@yahoo.com

Al & Patti Palumbo

Greg Errard, Sunset Cove President

#10,

The Parke Family

Susie Scharber

Liyi & Sunny with Robby

The Trawler Christmas Tree

Villages from page 10

Trawler Christmas tree and parts of the pool area. Many jolly people stopped by to see the merry look. Let’s thank our elves for helping Santa: Linda Iverson, Vicky Lino, Kathy Duerkop, Barbara Hartman, Linda Vella, Pat Fransen, and the Skipper of the elves, Donna Cody.

Trawler Residents

Welcome the Campers back from Finland - Heidi and Rick Camper traveled to Tampere, Finland, where they spent 18 days with their son, Carter, his wife, Erika, and their sons, Brayden, Wyatt, Cooper, and Miles. While there, they were able to watch five of Carter’s hockey team’s games. His team, the Tampereen Tappara, plays at Nokia Arena, Tampere’s

Rick and Heidi Camper with their

Erika, and their sons, Brayden, Wyatt, Cooper, and Miles

new next-generation experience centre which holds 12,700 spectators for sporting events, and 15,000 for concerts.

Carter is playing his 13th pro hockey season, having first signed with the Boston Bruins in 2011. He has played for 9 NHL organizations, and more recently Sweden, Switzerland, and now Finland in the European Leagues. Tappara is the most successful hockey team in Finland with 19 national championships. Tappara has won seven consecutive medals from 2013 to 2019, of which two are gold, four silver, and one bronze and won gold again in 2022 and 2023.

While visiting Finland, the couple participated in the midday tradition of Swedish Fika, or coffee and pastry. The family enjoyed hikes in the forest and fishing in the lakes before the first snowfall arrived and dumped twelve inches of “winter.”

Tampere now enjoys just 5-6 hours of daylight. Rick states that it was interesting to learn how quickly Carter’s two oldest boys, Brayden, 9, and Wyatt, 6, have become fluent in the Swedish and Finnish languages. They both play daily hockey on the pond with the local boys.

Rick and Heidi wrapped-up their trip with two fantastic days sightseeing in Helsinki, a truly historic city on the Gulf

of Finland. After the 24-hour flight back home, Heidi and Rick are resting up for a return trip to Finland during the playoff season in March.

Windjammer

New Year – New Rep

It’s been nine years and counting, but as they say, all good things have to come to an end. (Do they really??). Our Windjammer Big Board Representative Gary Suhadolnik will be stepping down. That after nine years with us, five of those as president of the Big Board and two years as VP. A lot has happened in nine years and Gary has thoroughly enjoyed his tenure, calling it a “blast.”

We all appreciate the many improvements to the golf course, driving range, floating marina docks, enhancements to the Wheelhouse and prep for repairs needed after Ian. We’ve seen increased security, including two systems installed and revamped to include barcodes for our vehicles and recently very imposing iron security gates…the list goes on!

Gary and Nancy hail from Ohio where they are both alumni of Cleveland State University – Gary with BIE in Electrical Engineering and Nancy with a BS in Education. Gary represented District 24 as Ohio State Senator for 18 years, then served four years as Director of Commerce for Governor Bob Taft followed by five years as Executive Director of the Ohio Turnpike.

Friday & Saturday February 9th & 10th

A member of the Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity, he was on the Advisory Boards of the McIntye Clinic and the Ohio Boys Choir, and a member of the Parma-South Presbyterian Church.

Meanwhile, Nancy was elected to the Ohio Republican Party State Central Committee in 1998, where she served for 22 years. Add to that sixteen years as Promotion Manager for the Ohio Lottery Commission, nine years as US Coast Guard Licensed Captain and Nautica Queen, seven years as Certified Public Manager for the State of Ohio. And Commodore of The Landings Yacht Club from 2017-2018! They are happily married for 54 years and blessed as parents of Timothy and Jena and grandchildren Grace and Julia.

Windjammers and Landings residents, we owe the power couple Gary and Nancy Suhadolnik many thanks for the years of their time and expertise, bringing their unique talents and experience to make our lives in this oasis The Landings even more enjoyable! Thank you – and good luck for your next endeavors!

son, Carter, his wife,

Sharyl Leifeld & Stacey Gossmann staceygossmann@comcast.net

Nancy and Gary Suhadolnik

Villages from page 11

Ariel

Travel Spain a True Destination

The Spanish culture has some very interesting rituals. Every city in Spain, from Madrid to Barcelona, Valencia to Seville, and even lesser-known cities like Zaragoza, have the tradition of Paseo. It is even celebrated in Fort Myers and at Ariel!!

I first became aware of the “Paseo” (which translates to “a leisurely, usually evening, stroll”) while on my trip to Zaragoza, Spain, many years ago. It was a cold night in late November, and after checking into my hotel I went out in search of a glass of wine and dinner.

Chris Erwin cerwin.home@gmail.com

I left the Tapas bar around 6 PM and the streets were filled with people walking arm in arm. There were families, couples, young and old. They all seemed to be going somewhere important, so I decided to follow the river of people to explore. I continued for about an hour when I realized there was no particular destination. They were just walking and socializing around the city park. When everyone dispersed, the restaurants filled with people for dinner.

Downtown Fort Myers has an Art Walk and Music Walk for residents alternating on the 1st & 3rd Fridays of each month. Local residents gather and meet up with friends and family who come to stroll together and listen to the music or view artists’ creations and have dinner.

Flagship

Patti Parrett

pparrett1@comcast.net

Along the way were little Tapas Bars with small plates of food given when you ordered a drink! I ventured into one and found a very friendly and “warm” place to sit. My glass of Vino turned out to be a small glass of Fino, a Fine Sherry, “Fino Jerez,” and the little dish of onion rings, were my first ever “fried calamari.”

Fort Myers Republican Women Luncheon

The Fort Myers Republican Women’s Club will meet Tuesday, February 13th at the Helm Club/Main Deck. The featured speaker will be now author Stephen McGuire, a retired Federal judge. Beginning with a social hour at 11:15 a.m., the meeting and lunch will start at noon with program shortly afterwards. Please make your reservation no later than February 9th. Reminder: after that date you will be responsible for the cost of your reservation if unable to attend. Make your lunch payment for $20 to FMRWC/ checks or cash, no credit cards. Contact: Diane Kinser, Recording Secretary/Membership Social.lady@ Yahoo.com Text (630) 327-3546.

The Landings has its own perfect place for Paseo with family and friends on our golf course cart paths, sidewalks and around our Marina. We even have a great Paseo area on each floor of Ariel to stroll when it is raining or too dark out, which has lovely views and breezes.

Like the Paseo, I have enjoyed the stroll with Happy Landings! But this is my last article. Farewell, Chris.

“Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.”

Ruth Bater Ginsburg, Supreme Court Justice & Political Icon

Clipper Cove

Expanding Family

Tyler Bumsted and Holly Morris welcomed their third grandchild (first grandson) on December 11, 2023. Harrison Joseph was born in Georgia and weighed 10 pounds, 11 ounces. Welcome big boy!

Curb Appeal

Anniversaries

Maisie and David Seiverling celebrate 44 years of marriage on January 5, 2024. The next day, Donna and Bill Dowdney celebrate 28 years of marital bliss.

It was with heavy hearts that we learned of the passing of Pat O’Donnell (4600) on December 7th. She and her husband Ray have been residents of The Landings for 21 years (17 years in Sunset Cove and the last five years in Flagship.) She had been an active member of the Nine Hole Golf League and held several positions on the board and various committees. Most recently, she served as chairperson of the summer KISS program. She was an influential member of our village and will be missed by all.

We are also saddened by the news of the passing of Ellen Christian on December 26th in her hometown in Kentucky. She was a Flagship resident for decades and will be remembered for her spunk and involvement in Flagship’s social committee for many years. You may remember her for her multiple holes-in-one on our golf course! Well done, good and faithful servant!

When it comes to volunteerism, we have a member who has really stepped up and took the bull by the horns. Becky Ross (4604) volunteers in various organizations outside of The Landings and has graciously agreed to co-chair the LongRange Planning Steering Committee. She is a natural leader and navigates the committee with finesse and professionalism. If she has inspired you in any way, be sure to sign up for one of the focus groups to do your part in the future of The Landings. Naturally, hard work deserves time off. Becky and her husband Brad Davidson have been touring the United Arab Emirates and we are all anxious to hear all about their adventures! Apparently, Brad learned the hard way that you cannot tour a mosque wearing shorts. Somehow, they managed to find a cover long enough to fit his tall stature!

Congratulations to Jeff Parrett (4604) on his retirement from Wheeler Lumber. Jeff has been an integral part of Wheeler for over 36 years and has contributed immensely to the growth and success of the company.

As we approach Valentine’s Day, remember that “All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.” Charles M. Shulz

Maisie Seiverling maisieseiverling@yahoo.com

Villages on page 13

Linda Andrews generously donated new artificial shrubs adorning the ground floor elevator in 4821 Clipper Cove.

Holly, Tyler and their grandchildren!

Becky Ross and Brad Davidson in Dubai, UAE

Longboat

Fundraiser for Manny Paula –Longboat Village embarked upon a fundraiser for Franchesca Borjes, the wife of Manny Paula, our landscaping contractor (Wilkinson) supervisor. Manny and his youngest daughter were tragically killed in a head on collision with a 22-year-old intoxicated, uninsured, undocumented immigrant in a truck on 12/17/2023. Manny was coming home from Christmas

with his family.

Ann Power annpower103@gmail.com

John Naifeh presenting Stewart Wilkinson with all the contributions, also pictured Ann Spang, Carol Bass, Jan Baysden, Lindy Worrall, Cheryl Curran, Scott Goran, Judy Davidson, Stewart’s employee, Cheryl Weiner, Bob Loper, Tom Grimm, Peggy Grimm, Steve Davidson, Jennifer Bavender, CeCe Loper, and Ann Warden

Manny’s wife and his other two children were also in the car and were injured. His wife was hospitalized, suffering from two broken legs. Manny was only 27 years old. Our Longboat Village President, John Naifeh, immediately put out word to our residents who generously contributed funds for Franchesca. The funds were presented to the owner of Wilkinson Landscaping, Stewart Wilkinson, for Franchesca. This effort was featured in an interview with WINK-TV. Others who had heard of the accident started a Go-FundMe page that has also gathered over $15,000.00 for Franchesca.

ladies Nastasha Benchimol, Jen Bavender, and CeCe Loper showing off their colorful Christmas leggings.

Christmas Brunch – Longboat Village had its annual Christmas brunch the morning of Christmas day. Since

the weather was uncooperative, the brunch moved indoors to the home of Zane Brown and Anne Warden, who graciously opened their home to the thirty-five attendees from our village. The camaraderie was great, and the brunch was delicious due to the tasty contributions from our attendees. Certainly, our village has a true “family atmosphere” that we all share.

Bass and Ann Warden eyeing up all the food that was for Christmas Brunch.

Welcome to our new residents at 4616 S. Landings Dr. – Howard Harrison, M.D., and Elizabeth Burns, D.M.D. It is a pleasure having you as new members of our village.

Mariner’s Cove

Janice and Jack Pursue opened our party season with a fun party in their home with almost 50 residents, lots of food, conversation and chocolate. The Purses also celebrated their 50th anniversary on December 29.

Ginny Minarchi entertained her granddaughter, Kaitlin, with a trip to Edison Lights along with Patti McMackin.

Our featured resident for this month, Kathy Petrone, moved into her home in Mariners Cove Village in 1997 with her husband Bob. She was a snowbird at first traveling back-andforth to Akron, Ohio, but eventually became a full-time Florida resident after Bob passed away in 2017.

Kathy grew up in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, and has two sisters who still live in Ohio, one being Marlene who also used to live at The Landings. Kathy and Bob were married right out of high school

and raised a son and a daughter who produced 8 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. She went to Akron University and received an Associate’s degree but did not go to work because Bob wanted her to stay home with the kids. So, she spent her time, as she still does, taking care of everything around the house and in her spare time she volunteered at the Humane Society bathing, trimming, and playing with the dogs. Dogs have always been a part of Kathy’s life, including the current two, Caddy and Louie. After Bob passed away Kathy spent her time playing golf and going out to lunch or dinner with her lady friends. She was a confirmed bachelorette until the ladies talked her into meeting Ray Trezise. Kathy asked him to play golf and the relationship took off. She took him to the airport in October 2021 for his usual return to Chicago until April. His flight was canceled, and he decided to just stay. According to Kathy she’s been blessed with two very special men.

We rounded out 2023 with a wonderful gutter party at the Blais’. There was beautiful weather, great food, bloodies and mimosas and wonderful neighbors conversing.

Riverside

John and Sherry Winters celebrated John’s 85th birthday with a cruise to a destination on John’s bucket list, Cartagena, Colombia, in early December. John has shirt-tail relatives there and hoped to connect with them, while also hoping to practice his fluent Spanish. They invited their son and his wife, Kjersten and Oksana Winters, to join them on the 12-day cruise.

and John

The couple began planning in May for the December cruise as it would allow sufficient time for Oksana to obtain a needed U.S. travel document allowing her to travel without a passport. Oxsana has only a permanent green card and she has traveled before without any problem. Because her $700 check was cashed and after waiting several months, she applied for expedited processing.

Three weeks before cruise time she received a denial for the accelerated request. It was then that they realized that she may not be able to sail with the Winters on the nonrefundable cruise. Oksana consulted with travel agents, cruise line officials, and immigration attorneys, and learned

Longboat

Carol

Pat Benner patharben@aol.com

Jack and Janice Purse

Patti McMackin, Ginny Minarchi and Kaitlin enjoying the festive lights

Kathy Petrone and Ray Trezise

Kathleen Striggow kathleensstriggow@gmail.com

Kjersten, Oksana, Sherry,

that it was still unclear whether she was permitted to board the ship. In the end, her permanent green card was accepted as her passport, a huge relief as all held their breaths as they boarded in Tampa.

Ports of interest for the group included old town in Cartagena, Colombia; Colon, Panama at the beginning of Panama Canal; George Town, Grand Cayman, where they viewed shipwrecks through a glass-bottomed boat; Puerto Limon, Costa Rica; and Cozumel, Mexico.

For Kjersten’s birthday, they opted to try the new immersive theatre dining experience called “LePetit Chef,” now available in 60 locations worldwide.

In other Riverside news, Congratulations to Annie Rabbit on the birth of her first grandchild, Anthony. Welcome Anthony!

Nancy and Andy Jacobson have a new puppy, Daisy, who is our “new kid on the block.” Welcome Daisy!

Cheryle Luchene topped off a whirlwind day on Dec.20th with dinner at The Veranda celebrating her and John’s 59th wedding anniversary. Earlier in the day, Cheryle won her tennis match, and was pleased to break even at Texas Hold’em. Congratulations, Cheryle and John!

Schooner

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!! It has been a busy month in Schooner with many visitors to our corner of paradise. The Nahnsens win the prize for numbers all at once with 13 of the clan gathered for the New Year holiday. The age range was from nine to eighty with all playing tennis daily.

Our newest potential visitor is Sloane Lawrie. She arrived on December 5th and is Hank and Deb Lawrie’s 4th grandchild. Though special in her own right, she is the first girl to be born in 152 years in Hank’s direct line of ancestors! Fourteen boys have preceded her, including her brother Declan. The Lawries had great fun meeting her in Chicago over Christmas, as well as seeing their other grandchildren and children.

Schooner always welcomes its renters who usually become rapidly integrated into our community and often eventually buy here! In January and February this year, we welcome Rick and Noreen Mayfield. They have visited the Lawries at The Landings before and were interested in spending an extended amount of time in

Ric & Mary Wilson-Tauson rooesq@juno.com

Florida. Rick and Noreen have a home in St. Louis and spend their summers in Ludington, Michigan. They have three children and five grandchildren, many of whom plan to visit this winter. Rick is still working and is a Managing Director with Marsh McClennan. He travels frequently, including to London and Bermuda. Noreen is retired and worked in a library in an elementary school in Webster Groves, Missouri. They anticipate taking full advantage of the amenities here at The Landings, especially golf and pickleball.

Thanks largely to Jackie Wagner, our monthly birthday ladies luncheons continue to be successful. In December we celebrated Linda Tucker, Barb Curioso and Margie Nahnsen‘s birthdays.

Hopefully many of you were able to attend Hugh Sims lecture on January 30th on the events leading up to the Vietnam War. A recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross, Hugh flew 152 combat missions during the war. You still have time to sign up for the February 20th panel on memory loss. Kim Wasik, a geriatric social worker, and Donna Riggs, primary caretaker, will be panelists along with Lynne Thorp, Executive Director of the Dubin Center in Fort Myers. They will be providing information we all need to know!

Steamboat Bend

Bonnie LaZella took her first swing on her first hole and sent the ball up on the green and into the cup while her social foursome, Lynn DeFranc, Debra Gustafson, and Linda Tucker watched. It made for a fun day on the golf course. Congrats!

Steamboad Bend East

Let’s “Leap” in!

“Love is missing someone whenever you’re apart, but somehow feeling warm inside because you’re close in heart.” Kai Knuds. I especially appreciate this quote because my husband and I were apart for Christmas, but we managed to stay close in heart.

In this short month, right smack in the middle is Valentine’s Day. Make this the year you think of someone who might need a little extra love, and plan to take some action…it could be a note, a phone call, some flowers.

As a child, and one of 6 kids, we’d ask our mom what she’d like for a gift…her answer was always the same… “A few kind words.” It could be a blessing, which you can find for most occasions in the book, “To Bless the Space Between Us” by John O’Donohue. I like to keep this book on my nightstand.

Some weeks in December and January had us happy to leave our condos to escape the noise of the installation of new windows. With new roofs, new windows and soon to get some new sliders, many of our buildings will have an envelope of dryness and safety from the weather, thanks to Peter, Frank and our whole board that has worked tirelessly to effect these changes and improvements.

Some New Year resolutions had to do with having more fun, praying/hoping for world peace, contentment, kindness, heart, nice, fearless creativity and tenderness just to name a few.

May 2024 bring this and more into our lives. A friend recently explained that each decade of our lives has a task. When we are in our 70’s and 80’s, that task is toward developing more tenderness. Perhaps if we develop that in ourselves toward one another, we might also develop a tenderness toward our beautiful earth and care for it accordingly.

Dinner at LePetit Chef

John and Cheryle Luchene celebrating 59 years of wedded bliss

Sloane Eleanor Lawrie

Rick and Noreen Mayfield

Ladies Birthday Luncheon

Carol Cummins callifleur1955@gmail.com

New windows waiting to be installed in 4160.

Fred Muhleman, Pat and Ty Tylander gather around the fire to begin to say Goodbye to 2023 and Welcome the New Year while enjoying the beauty of the SBE Pool area.

Within one of their most sought-after neighborhoods, Shell Point introduces 59 new waterfront independent living residences featuring stunning coastal views of the Caloosahatchee River and Sanibel Island.

“GET TO KNOW” VISTA CAY!

Explore Vista Cay and resort living at Shell Point. REGISTER for a small-group seminar and tour by visiting MeetVistaCay.org, or schedule a private appointment by calling (239) 466-1131.

NOW ACCEPTING PRIORITY DEPOSITS

Learn more at MeetVistaCay.org or call 1-800-780-1131 or (239) 466-1131

from the islands of