Happy Landings
A Look Inside
LANDINGS FISHING CLUB
LANDINGS ADVISORY COMMITTEE CORNER
BRIDGE SEASON EXTENDED
IN THIS ISSUE
Landings Fishing Club
LEROY FLEMING
IT’S ABOUT PRESENTATION
Debbie Hanson was five years old. What does a kid know about passion at that age? Her parents allowed her to leave the western suburbs of Chicago to travel north to the upper peninsula of Michigan for several weeks. There life with her grandparents was totally different.
“Grandpa, you promised to take me fishing!” Fast forward to today and how do you go from a preschooler to a charter boat captain in such a short time? It happened with a patient grandfather, excitement, and a shared passion that quickly developed in our heroine.
Fresh water bass, walleyes, and lake trout gave way to the education years till “little Debbie” (not the Hostess snack) developed into a passionate advertising executive. Now as an adult, Debbie presented her products before her clients. Their success depended on her expertise and ability to make them happy. It took time to hone those skills and her performance followed quickly.
Speaking to The Landings Fishing Club, Captain Debbie is an accomplished female angler. She is part of the 43 percent of female anglers who share the passion for the sport. She is also a published author,
Charter boat captain and superb angler Debbie Hanson is a talented speaker too.
and a world record holder for catching several species of fish. Debbie presented herself and the sport of fishing the fresh waters of Florida in an outstanding speech. Enthusiastic, persuasive, and patient, she handled the nonstop questions throughout the evening. Debbie is a licensed charter boat captain with all the safety certificates plus what sounded like a Marine Biologist explaining the ins and outs of Florida’s sport fish. Passion, patience, perseverance on how, where, and when to catch these species echoed throughout the evening.
Large mouth bass, crappie, bluegills, and snook were all on her list. However her main attraction was the peacock bass. A nonnative fish that comes from the Amazon basin of South America, this species was introduced to the Miami-Broward area in the 1980s. Peacock bass are a predatory
fish and it was hoped they would help solve an aquatic problem. This bass is non-invasive, meaning it is not destructive to our native ecosystem. Being a tropical fish, it prefers hotter waters. Above 75 degrees, life is good. Dropping to 60 degrees is lethal. In this species the male is the larger fish with a Florida record of 12 pounds recorded years ago. The average today is six to eight pounds.
Debbie is on the Internet and Facebook. To catch a peacock bass, pick a hot day with high humidity, and high water temperature, which the bass love, and Debbie will put you there. “I love tossing a three-inch top water popping plug and presenting it to the fish. The thrill is watching exploding water, shower and spray going everywhere as the bass takes your presentation: he’s hooked.” Fear not for the fish, for Captain Debbie is a catch and release angler.
Passion, perseverance, patience, and presentation not only catch fish but had The Landings Fishing Club hooked as well. Our bright eyed, infectious laughing, extremely competent female angler gets the Top Catch of the Year honor!
TRADITION
The Broadway play and movie musical “Fiddler on the Roof” was about tradition. The 4th of July parades, Cinco de Mayo, and St. Patrick’s Day are also celebrated traditions. Around the world people choose to celebrate just about anything.
The Landings Fishing Club joins the throngs with the annual kids’ fishing tournament on Easter Monday. It’s a family affair with kids, parents, and grandparents assaulting the Helm Club Lake. Club members provide the bait and assistance when needed. The attack begins at 8 a.m. and ends at 11 a.m. Prizes are awarded to the
angler, male or female, who catches the longest fish as well as the most fish.
The participants range in age from three to sixteen years old. Every conceivable type of rod and reel are used. Bait can be artificial or live worms. Eager family members take pictures of the catches and then release the fish. Photo proof of size is presented, and awards are made, ending another successful tradition.
Finley Reardon, age 4, caught a 17.5-inch large mouth bass.
The Landings Advisory Committee Corner will provide a synopsis of The Landings Advisory Committee Approved Minutes. If you want more information about a specific Landings Advisory Committee, log into The Landings website, click on Committees, then click on the specific committee.
Golf Committee
Mark Wehrman is the new golf pro. Welcome to The Landings! Check with
LANDINGS FISHING CLUB
Monday April 21, 2025, began with the registration of anglers. Appropriate Easter gifts were offered to each participant. Circling the lake searching for the choice spots, the kids ran forth eager with excitement. Soon you could hear the laughter and squeals of success or failure to land that potential winner.
This year the scales were tipped from the experienced angler to the complete novice. Four-year-old Finley Reardon caught a 17.5-inch large mouth bass to take first prize. She used a three-foot purple rod with matching reel with a wriggling night
Landings Advisor
the golf shop for the reciprocal golf courses that are available to Landings residents during the summer. To keep it green, 150 gallons of fertilizers were applied to the course.
House and Activities Committee
The Landings Inaugural Witches Ride, and Enchanted Witches Ball are planned for October 27, 2025. It is a fundraiser with all proceeds going to Premier Mobile Health Services. This organization provides access to quality healthcare services to the medically vulnerable. Sandy DeMarco is the Team Leader. This Landings event
crawler to catch the big one! With blonde hair hanging in twin pigtails, blue eyes, and a heart-melting smile, she accepted a small trophy along with $25. It was a dead heat as to who was the happiest, Finley or grandpa Mike Reardon.
Experience paid off for Garrett Easton, age 14. Coming from Seattle, Washington, Garrett took the prize for the most fish caught.
As long as there are parents teaching kids the important things in life, the traditions will live on.
will include all committees, organizations, and members. Volunteers will dress up as witches and will participate in a parade of decorated bicycles and golf carts. The Committee will solicit sponsors.
Marina Committee
Members should make sure their boats are tied down with extra lines, and secured as close as safely possible. Power cords need to have slack of five feet up and down. Captain Craig O’Donnell mentioned that boat owners are supposed to notify him prior to leaving for the summer.
Tennis Committee
Inspections revealed that algae exist around the perimeter of the courts, close to the fencing. This will be addressed this summer. A new rake will be purchased and over the summer the courts will be raked. New clay will be put down and rolled. Drinking fountains are starting to show rust around the spigots. The tennis office is checking with Rocky Ford and David Gillespie for how best to clean and remove the rust.
Wellness Committee
Rosana Jaramillo described “The Compassionate Neighbors Program.” This program ran in the past through The Landings villages. It was a community effort to make the residents aware of their neighbor’s needs, such as if they were ill or needed rides to medical offices, etc. This idea was met with interest, and may be something the Wellness Committee will explore in the future.
Communications Committee
Landings residents should install the Landings App on their mobile phone. It provides Landings information at your fingertips. The Tennis Social Group Flyer is available in the tennis office. It lists all men’s, women’s, and mixed social tennis group that are available for drop-in play.
Reporters are needed for the Happy Landings digital magazine. Help spread the word about all the great activities and events that are happening at The Landings. Email hazelwhitejones.hl@ gmail.com if interested.
Want to volunteer for a Landings Advisory Committee? Mark your calendar for November 2025, when the volunteer application period opens.
The next meeting of The Landings Advisory Committee will take place on Thursday, November 13, 2025, in the Purser’s Quarters at the Helm Club at 4 p.m.
RESOURCE HUB
THE LANDINGS YACHT, GOLF & TENNIS CLUB
ADMINISTRATION OFFICE
482-3211 • FAX 482-1796
General Manager: David Gillespie
Director of Administration: Rosana Jaramillo
Director of Activities and Communication: Michele Lawson
Controller: Kim Cummings
HAPPY LANDINGS
The Official Community News
PUBLISHER
Seabreeze Communications
Head Editor: Hazel Jones hazelwhitejones.hl@gmail.com
Editors: Barbara June, Linda Tucker
We Need Volunteers
Happy Landings needs new editors and reporters for several villages and clubs at The Landings. If you are interested, please contact head editor Hazel Jones.
MISSION STATEMENT
The purpose of the Happy Landings digital magazine is to record and celebrate events in the lives of individuals and the life of the community.
Deadline: Articles for the Happy Landings digital magazine will be accepted only until noon on the 1st of each month, and should be e-mailed to the Editor.
Disclaimer/Complaint Process: Happy Landings™ is a digital magazine published for the benefit of the residents of The Landings Yacht, Golf and Tennis Club, Inc., which has hired Seabreeze Communications as the publisher to provide content and sell advertising consistent with the editorial and advertising policies of the Board of Directors of The Landings Yacht, Golf and Tennis Club, Inc. The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors and, unless otherwise noted, should not be construed to be those of The Landings Yacht, Golf and Tennis Club Inc., or the Board of Directors, or the members. Paid advertising does not represent an endorsement by this publication. Content cannot be reproduced without written consent from The Landings Yacht, Golf and Tennis Club, Inc. Happy Landings is a registered trademark which cannot be used without the express written permission of the holder of the mark, The Landings Yacht, Golf and Tennis Club, Inc.
The Happy Landings ™ does not accept letters to the editor. All members of the LYGTC have the right to express their concerns to the Board of Directors, after following these steps: First, bring your problem/complaint to the attention of, in order, the editor; the Communications Committee; and finally, the General Manager. If dissatisfied with the result, you must then fill out a “Member Problem/Complaint” form (available in the Administration Office). The completed form will be given to the Board of Directors, who will decide if the problem/complaint warrants its review or action.
DEADLINE for JULY 2025 June 1, 12 Noon
General Manager’s Report
APRIL 2025
As the seasonal months begin to wind down, and many members head to cooler climates, we take a minute to wish everyone safe travels, and a safe summer. The club is beginning what is the spring wind down process, which involves trimming our seasonal operating staff, and schedules. You will see the golf course close at various times this summer for the required agronomic work that is essential to keep the
grass growing and the courses healthy. If this proves inconvenient at times, we apologize in advance, and remind you to talk to the pro shop to seek golf play at reciprocal courses in the area. The golf shop will make arrangements for members to travel and enjoy seeing and playing at other fine courses in our area. Also, there will be times this summer when tennis and the pool area may be undergoing work to keep them in top condition. We will be communicating to all members when these necessary work projects will be in effect. Please contact the departments well in advance to help you make your arrangements.
In trying to construct a food and beverage schedule that accommodates the majority of dining members, the staff took into account the schedules and overtime elimination, and the difficult decisions of how to provide availability for usage of both dining venues. Closing either the Helm Club or the Wheelhouse completely for the summer would be a very difficult solution for a great many
reasons. I will speak at the Monday April 21 Board of Directors meeting as to how we arrived at our proposed initial schedule. Looking at all the data for both facilities, or the lack of adequate data for the last three years, was also a contributing factor.
The Board wants to discuss all the options before the initial schedule is formally accepted by the Board, and as conditions and numbers of members varies during the summer, we will be most likely altering the food service menus and times as the conditions change.
The club will also be looking at the budgeting process that occurs from May to July, and the costs of providing the amenities that our members so enjoy. Costs are continuing to increase, and it’s essential the club keeps up with escalating labor cost, utility increases, significant insurance increases, and the general cost of doing business in the Florida market. The challenge is one the finance committee and ultimately the Board will have to discuss and work hard to overcome, to keep the club on track to survive in these rapidly changing times.
Finally, thanks to many of you for your words of encouragement and support over the last 12 months. I came for relatively short interim management assignment, and the Board was kind enough to extend my stay for a longer period. It has been my pleasure getting to meet many of you in this last year, and I look forward to seeing you over the summer, and into the next busy seasonal year.
Bridge Season Extended
BILL FERRIS
The End of Season Bridge Party in the Main Deck room of the Helm Club on the last day of April was a lot of fun, but it did not coincide with the actual last day of the 2024-25 Bridge season. Just before the party, enough Club members asked that the season be extended into May that the Club by straw vote agreed to take a formal vote on the proposed new final day of the season on the Monday following the party. For those who might wonder why the season is required to close at all during the calendar year, you should know that our sanctioning organization requires at least five tables (20 players) to go forward with the awarding of master points, which count towards the awarding of Life Master and other honors. At the first meeting in May, it was agreed to hold more bridge sessions until the expected attendance no longer rose to the level of five tables at which time we committed we would play as long as feasible. Availability of a Director was also a factor. So as you read this, we are probably still playing!
Following the last day of the Season based on the votes mentioned earlier, the new Board as elected last month—Bill Ferris, Tim Whiteis, Sue Wotton, Pam Dahlberg, Bill Rush, Barb Coneys, and Jerry Poissant—met for the first time. More meetings will be held
both in person and electronically during the next several months while many Landings members are not in residence. There will be some future columns keeping interested folks apprised of club member activities before the club holds its first meeting in the fall. If any members have any ideas about items we should bring up at these meetings, please email me at bpferris@gmail. com. Although we won’t necessarily have a column every month through September, we will definitely have one in September. Expect the first bridge session of the 202526 Landings season will be the first Monday of October after the Southwest Florida Regional American Contract Bridge League Tournament, which is currently planned for the Sanibel Harbour Marriott October 5 to 12. So that means our Landings Club opening day will be Monday, October 13 at the Helm Club. See you then!
Ladies 9-Holers League
DEBRA BATES
Hello golfers! We started off this month with our final Marty Slater Event. Marty was a member of the 9-Holers who was well known for the fancy decorated hats she would wear.
Every year for the past ten years this event has taken place in April, Marty’s birthday month. Most players wear elaborate hats. Four holes are designated as closest to the pin holes
and four players are awarded $25 each. This year the winners were Martha Kohnke at hole #1, Darlene Kratz at hole #3, Mary Jo Kirkpatrick at
Congratulations to CTP winners woman (from left): Mary Jo Fitzpatrick, Darlene Kratz, Virginia Miller and Martha Kohnke.
hole #11, and Virginia Miller at hole #14. This has been a wonderful way to honor Marty’s memory.
The first place team members on the front nine were Sheri Christian, Joan Woodford, Mary Leo, Susan Cope and Susie Duca. On the back nine, the winning team members were Diane Teeter, Mary Story, Carolyn Schneider, Karen Erickson and Jean Pomanowski.
We hosted our annual 9 Hole/18 Hole Mixer. Teams consisted of players from both leagues on a beautiful day to gather together and play golf. After the match, we enjoyed spending time together and enjoying great meal.
From left: Betty Kollar, Joan Zerolis, and Julie Iverson are ready for lunch.
The winning team members on the front nine were Joan Zerolis, Julie Iverson, Betty Kollar, Liz Welsh and Lynda Redmon. Back nine winning team members were Leela Dandekar,
Special thanks to those that worked to make these events happen and thank you to Bev Reeves and Sheri Christian for checking all of us in this month.
This time of year, a lot of us are headed back north or have already left. To all I would like to say, see you next time!
Lynda Redmon (left) and Liz Welsh enjoyed the combined event.
Pam Baran, Nancy Nowak, Lesley Patey and Becky Yates.
Bev Reeves (left) and Sheri Christian at morning check-in.
LLGA-18 Ladies Golf Happenings
MARY ANN SPRY
’Twas quite a month of flurry! Usually, things slow down a bit by now, but the weeks have gone by fast and filled with golfing activity. “Blind Partner” winners were Cathy Goeckel and Susie Scharber with partners chosen after playing, when the best net score was taken of two.
Our annual spring “Play Day with the 9 Hole League” was held on April 11 in a “Hitter Out” Scramble. Everyone had an excellent time,
renewing friendships and playing the game we love. Thank you to the 9 Hole league for hosting a beautiful luncheon and fun golf. Front 9 team winners were: Lynda Redmon, Liz Welsh, Betty Koller, Judy Iverson, and Joan Zerolis. The Back nine team winners were: Nancy Nowak, Lesley Patey, Becky Yates, Pam Baran and Leela Dendekar. Yes, we wanted to keep going since we were having so much fun!
Can you imagine a more exciting “Masters” tournament? I think most everyone who enjoys the game of golf and even those who don’t play could not leave the TV that afternoon. It is always fun to see the players, and the beautiful flowers that adorn the course. Several of our members were lucky enough to be there for some of the tournament and were in awe of the experience. Congratulations Rory McIlroy!
The 18 Hole league is trying something new for playing other courses, such as we did in LEGA. We held an “Exchange Day,” where Gulf Harbor league ladies were invited to play with us on our league day. We had a wonderful time, meeting some great ladies, and showing them our beautiful Landings
GOLF HARBOR AND LLGA 18 GOLFERS (FROM LEFT)
MARY HARRINGTON, HELEN AMY, CHRISTY FITZ, SUSIE SCHARBER, SARAH NOYES, ELAINE FRITZ AND PAM LEMON.
course. Winning First Low Gross was Liz Welsh with a 62, and Low Net was Nancy Yavorsky with a 54. From Gulf Harbor Pam Lemon and Elaine Fritz were top winners with great scores as well. We enjoyed lunch in the Compass Rose after a great morning on the course.
How many “Hole in Ones” have you had? Lindy Worrall, golfing on our league day recently, had a Hole-in-One on hole #2. This is her sixth Hole In One and all have been achieved on our Landings course. Congratulation Lindy! That is amazing.
I have covered how putting is so important for achieving a good score, so this month we counted putts and the winner with the lowest number of putts for 18 holes was Deborah Daly with 28 putts. Our greens have been somewhat faster this week, perhaps to accommodate the Village Challenge, and then some necessary maintenance occurred so it was a bit of a challenge to keep the ball on line.
Lindy Worrall celebrates her SIXTH hole in one.
I would like to acknowledge Christy Fitz, our Membership Chair, who has done an amazing job since 2016. She has recruited, taken care of new members, and has kept our directory up to date all of these years in an amazing fashion, besides being a wonderful friend to every one of us. Thank you, Christy, for all you have done for the league for so many years, including our “2 Club” and “Fun Fridays”!
Have a fantastic summer everyone!
SUMMER 2025 Golf Course Closure Schedule
As part of our summer maintenance program, the Golf Course will be closed on the following dates:
June 16-June 23 July 14-July 21 August 18-August 25
Be sure to get your golf bags during shop hours if you are playing reciprocals throughout the week.
Kudos to the 2024-25 Golf Champions
There were 14 significant tournaments played at The Landings this season, and 60 golfers got to strut their stuff in the winners’ circle. In fact, nine of our champions visited the red carpet multiple times. What a year!
Here is a recap of those tournaments.
First and foremost, the Landings conducted two events to determine the club champions.
The Landings Club Championship determined the best individual golfers in our community. The 2025 overall winners were Karen Shelton (Ladies), Pat Milkovich (Men) and Mike Coupland (Senior) while the flight winners were Marilyn Collins, Steve Davison, Steve Hooper, and Tim Longworth.
The Ladies 9-Hole Golf Association (LLGA9) Championship was won by Suzanne McGauley.
The Ladies 18-Hole Golf Association (LLGA18) Championship was won by Karen Shelton.
Mike Coupland, Steve Hooper, Marilyn Collins, Pat Milkovich, Karen Shelton, Tim Longworth, and Steve Davison.
The InterVillage Challenge determined the best overall golf village, and Lighthouse took home this trophy for 2025. The Lighthouse Village team consisted of Carl Cisky, Carol Cisky, Diane Giebner, Cathy Goeckel, Dave Goeckel, Bridget Hampson, Harry Hampson, Jim Howey, Joyce Kascak, John Leonette, Marty Roemer, and Tony Roemer.
The leagues held championships to determine their best individual golfer.
The winner of the LLGA-18’s President’s Cup Championship was Theresa Johnson.
The Men’s Golf Association (LMGA) Championship overall winner was Pat Milkovich, while the flight winners were Dan Baran, Bob Carlson, LeRoy Fleming, Tim Froedge, and Jerry Post.
Three events were held this season to determine the best two-person teams of the same gender:
LIGHTHOUSE VILLAGE WON THE INTERVILLAGE CHAMPIONSHIP.
The Fall Classic included pairs of ladies as well as pairs of men. The Ladies’ winners were Marty Roemer and Barb Schulte, while the Men’s winners were Steve Hooper and Don Schmitt.
The Ladies’ Member/Member Championship winners were Linda Maness and Susan Scharber for low gross while Marilyn Collins and Marcia Fry won the shootout. The low net flight winners were Sarah Noyes and Marty Roemer, and Julie Iverson and Peggy Thompson.
The Men’s Member/Member Championship low gross flight winners were Mark Combs and Jim Koeger, and Mike Coupland and Allen Shoesmith. The low net flight winners were Dennis Bates and Joe
Cavanaugh, and Tony Roemer and Al Wagner.
Three events crossed the gender line by pairing a man with a woman into twoperson teams:
The LLGA-9 sponsored their Sweethearts Tournament – on Valentine’s Day, in fact! – and the winners were Cheryl Box and Jon Box.
The LLGA-18 held their Matinee at the Movies Event, and the flight winners were Phyllis Holley and Charlie Coker, Cathy Steeves and Mark Cochran, Dotty Fritze and Alan Fritze, and Pat Lally and Richard Lally.
The LMGA conducted their annual Guys and Dolls Tournament, and the flight winners were Steve Hooper and Cookie Smith, Dennis Yavorsky and Nancy
Yavorsky, and Harold Mix and Susan Mix.
A fourth annual tournament of this genre, the Landings Mixed Championship, was not played this season due to uncooperative weather conditions.
And two tournaments this season were played mostly just for the fun of it.
The LLGA-18 hosted their Sweetheart Event, and the winning team was Alyssa Klasek, Stan Klasek, Bob Steeves, and Cathy Steeves.
The LMGA conducted their annual Stag Day, and the winning team was Bob Carlson, Pat Milkovich, Charlie Rainey, and Joe Wolcin.
Congratulation to all 60 of our 2024-25 Golf Champions!
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
ARIEL
Ariel’s Brunch: Another Success
HAZEL JONES hazelwhitejones@gmail.com
When chair Jan Helyer and the rest of Ariel’s Social Committee decided to offer a Sunday brunch for the first time, they weren’t sure how it would be received. As was the case with the other social events over the last several months, it was a great success.
The owners patiently wait to order their drinks.
The brunch, the final communal gathering of the winter season, was held on April 27 in the newly renovated and decorated Taeping Room on the plaza level (second floor) of the 18-story building. A complete makeover of this community room was required since Hurricane Ian destroyed it. Now it is an inviting meeting place for Ariel residents.
The food offered was bountiful and delicious!
A total of 70 residents were present to enjoy baked ham, mimosas, wine, beer, water and assorted juices provided by the Social Committee. The attendees contributed varied and delicious potluck dishes to share, and the food offered was bountiful. There were all types of quiches, breakfast casseroles, muffins galore, fresh fruit, homemade breads, and many kinds of cookies and pastries.
Large groups can gather in Ariel’s Taeping room.
The tables were decorated with vases of spring flowers, and one lucky person at each table got to take the bouquet home with them. The winner was chosen by whose birthday was the closest to that day’s date. Chris Erwin was the easiest winner because her birthday was on that day!
Will the message on Jeff Kasper’s shirt help his poker opponents?
The residents had a wonderful time and agreed this was a perfect way to get together at the end of the season. Jan Helyer chaired the occasion for the final time, though she will remain on the Social Committee. The residents are grateful for the events she and the rest of the Committee, comprised of Stephanie Burchfield, Tracie Herron, Barb Henry, Cathy Kimball, Diane Kinser, Martha Kohnke, Carl Melchoir, Gary Ramadon, and Helen Rosenblum, produced over the last several months.
Although this was the last official Social Committee function until the fall, the yearround residents at Ariel continue to get together during the year. Summer dinners take place at the Wheelhouse on Thursday evenings at 5:30 p.m. The first dinner will be held on June 26, followed by additional dinners on July 24, August 28, and September 25.
CLIPPER COVE
A Lasting Tribute
In memory of Jim Semerad, his close friend Bill Harris has donated two brand new grills to the pool shelter— one of their favorite spots to gather and grill. The grills are now in use and being enjoyed by many in Clipper Cove. Thank you, Bill, for your thoughtful and generous gift. We’ll think of Jim every time we gather around the grills. New grills were donated by Bill Harris in memory of Jim Semerad.
DONNA HUGHES hugheslink@comcast.net
Wedding Bells in the Dennison Family
Tim and Marcia Dennison’s son, Cooper, is tying the knot! He and his fiancée, Kristen Blanca, will be married on July 10th at the Dennison family farm. The couple currently lives in Buford, Georgia. Congratulations to Cooper and Kristen!
PharmLife: Second Time Around Dennis and Dana Hahn have completed their second Great Loop aboard their Nordic Tug, PharmLife! They traveled approximately 6,000 miles along the Intracoastal Waterways, Canadian channels including Montreal and Ottawa, the Great Lakes, U.S. rivers, and the Gulf of Mexico. This loop was done in segments over two years with different stops and routes than their 2017 loop, completed over one year. It was a trip of adventure, learning, and meeting new friends! Well done, Hahns!
LONGBOAT
Surprise, surprise! Golf News: April brought golf news galore to our Village. It was time for the InterVillage Golf Challenge. Our team was once again led by Team Captain Steve Davison, and CoCaptain Ann Spang, who put a talented team together. They had lots of fun and finished in the middle of the pack – not too shabby. The tournament was followed by a banquet dinner. As always, there was lots of food, lots of tall stories, and lots of tears. Great job team! Thank you for your efforts on behalf of our village.
Clipper Cove on the Catwalk
Our very own Terri Fansler strutted the runway in the Landings Fashion Show, modeling outfits from Rebecca’s stylish collections. Great job, Terri!
Dana and Dennis Hahn.
LONGBOAT INTERVILLAGE CHALLENGE TEAM: BACK ROW: OSCAR MYUSSON, SCOTT GORAN, REDMOND, JOE TEALE, JACK PLAS, ANN SPANG; ROW: GARY BOYES, STEVE DAVISON, MIKE REDMON, STEVE STORER, WILLIAM TYRALA, CHRIS MCFARLAND.
Hole in One: Lindy Worrall did it again with a great drive and, as she said, skill and luck. She got her second hole in one on #2 during the ladies 18-hole league. Way to go Lindy.
New Residents: Judi and Doug Pelton would like to share a little something about themselves, and their puppy – Sienna, a goldendoodle. First off, they are not new to The Landings. Doug’s Father lived here for many years. Doug had a vision of being in a community that had lots of amenities to keep them busy.
New residents Judi and Doug Pelton.
fashion, summertime will see them leave and head north to Indianapolis.
What do we have here: Looks like Larry Tyler and Natasha Benchimol have been hanging out in the wrong places. Both were captured in slings. Residents beware; it could be catching.
Longboat Residents: That is a wrap for this year. Wishing everyone a great summer.
WINDJAMMER
Larry Tyler and Natasha Benchimol sport matching slings!
They had been living on their 54’ Offshore named “Mobile Home” for the last two and a half years at Longboat Key Club Marina. Their boating lives had started in Jacksonville, from where they started and finished the Great Loop. They are now looking forward to spending time on land and enjoying the amenities that The Landings has to offer. In true snowbird
Twelve Windjammer residents participated in the annual InterVillage Golf Challenge on April 14. Dennis Clark acted as team captain. All teams played well, and Windjammer Village placed in the middle of the pack. Black shorts and red shirts were the team colors, and our men looked really sharp on the course. Congratulations to Lighthouse Village, the 2025 Champions.
evabell81@yahoo.com
EVA BELL
We had an all-male team unfortunately, since none of our female players signed up to play. That is a shame given that all other teams had both men and women players. Let’s change that next year, put together the best team we can, and take back the trophy in 2026.
Awards presentations and a wonderful chicken and rib dinner served up by the food and beverage staff following the event. If anyone is interested in playing next year, please notify Dennis Clark or Bentley Collins.
The Crossjack Court Project
In late March we started the project to correct the water drainage problem in Crossjack Court. The concrete was removed, new drains were installed, and mountains of pavers were delivered. Randy and Diane Skipton had diligently researched the most cost-effective way to have pavers instead of concrete installed. With the help of the new drainage system, the pavers will allow the water to drain much more effectively. The Skiptons also chose perfect pavers to complement the existing ones in the walkways.
Installing new pavers is a labor-intensive job.
WINDJAMMER’S GOLFERS FINISHED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE PACK AT THE INTERVILLAGE GOLF CHALLENGE.
Our landscapers are working on the irrigation system, and the electricians are fixing the walkway lighting. Once we are satisfied that the drainage works properly and the lighting and irrigation have been completed, Hillary Combs and the Landscaping Committee will work with Every Day Landscape on the finishing touches. If all goes well this project will be completed by the end of May.
The new pavers not only look great; they also will drain much better than concrete.
Things are happening at Windjammer
Many of our residents have already left to spend the summer in cooler regions, but those of us still around are witnessing a lot of activities.
The Milestone repairs (stairs and walkways) in the four-story buildings are moving according to plan. Spanker Court is finished, and we expect Bowsprit and Jib Boom to be completed by the end of May. The Spanker/ Crossjack carports that were damaged by a tree during Milton have been removed and are being replaced by mid-May.
All elevator control systems are being upgraded to the most current safety and reliability standards and the cars will be renovated to new conditions. We expect this project to be completed by mid-July. The above projects are only a part of more to come before the summer is over.
STEAMBOAT BEND EAST
“June is when Earth Feels like a child In a magnificent toy shop.”
~Sigurd F. Olson”
callifleur1955@gmail.com
The highlights for the Steamboat Bend East InterVillage Golf Challenge team were Joe Clifford and Fred Muhleman getting closest to the pin. Congratulations. The team was made up of three-4-person teams who competed against other villages from The Landings.
The Easter bunny had fun hiding Joe Clifford’s ball in the hole on #3. Congratulations to Joe on his first ever hole in one!
Mike and Alice Garguilo celebrated their 50th Anniversary at Picnic Pointe with friends and family. Congratulations and best wishes for many more happy years.
Alice and Mike Garguilo.
Safe travels to all who are soon heading back North. We arrived the first week in May to find the fruit trees filled with abundant blooms in Illinois. To our friends staying through the seasons, it will be nice to have things quiet down a bit!
Back row, from left: Brian Londergan, Michael Garguilo, Mike Reardon, Jim McGuire, Jo Wagner, Frank Farrell, Jesse Shipp; front row: Joe Clifford, Fred Muhleman, Carol Donohue, Denise MacNamara, Mary Kay O’Hara.
Joe Clifford retrieves his hole in one ball.
TRAWLER
Wrapping Up
Another Great Season
InterVillage Golf Tournament
AL & PATTI PALUMBO thealster6@gmail.com
As the season comes to a close, we’d like to thank everyone for making it another memorable year in Trawler Village. Our final gathering at the pool was a relaxed and cheerful sendoff to all our seasonal residents preparing to head north. It was a pleasure spending time together, and we wish all our “snowbirds” safe travels and a sunny summer ahead. We look forward to seeing you again in the fall!
As always Trawler Village competed in the InterVillage Golf Challenge. Many thanks to Tim Longworth for pulling together the three 4-person teams. Trawler did very well, finishing in fourth place and cashing in! It was a great day and a lot of fun for all participants.
Car Wash Station Now Available
We’re happy to share that a new car washing station is now open between buildings 4585 and 4591, thanks to Perry’s great work. This area is now a designated wash zone and is available for all residents to use.
Trawler Village finished fourth in the InterVillage Golf Challenge.
To keep our parking areas clean and safe, please remember that only basic maintenance—like tire changes or battery installations—is permitted on-site. For more extensive repairs, we kindly ask that you use an off-site facility.
Walkway Courtesy Reminder
We’ve noticed some items—like golf carts, bicycles, and wheelchairs—being stored in shared walkways. We understand space can be limited, but to maintain accessibility for all, please be sure these items are either placed in the provided bike racks or stored inside your unit. Thank you for helping us keep Trawler neat and safe.
Stairway Repairs at 4585 & 4574
Repair work on stair treads identified in the Milestone and SIRS Study is scheduled to begin in the coming weeks. The work will be staggered to ensure that at least one stairwell remains open in each building during construction. We appreciate your patience as these improvements are completed.
Summer Parking Prep
Planning to leave a car here for the summer? Please leave a key with someone you trust. This will help us avoid any issues during the scheduled paving project, expected later this summer. Cars that need to be moved but are inaccessible may incur towing costs, so a little preparation now can save hassle later.
Hosting Guests While You’re Away?
If you have guests staying in your unit while you’re gone, remember to fill out a Notice of Guest in Residence Form, available on the Alliant website. It helps us keep the community safe and connected year-round.
Alliant Portal Transition
Trawler Village will soon shift all updates and resources from The Landings website to the Alliant resident portal. If you haven’t registered yet, now’s a great time! Need a hand? Luc is happy to help you get set up.
Stay Tuned
Even as summer settles in and many residents head north, there’s still plenty happening around Trawler Village. From project updates to fall planning, we’ll keep you in the loop.
Check back in next month’s issue of Happy Landings for the latest—and maybe a surprise or two.
N O V E M B E R 1 0 , 2 0 2 5
B e n e d i c t , M a r i e
T h e Q u e e n s o f C r i m e
J A N U A R Y 1 5 , 2 0 2 6
M o o r e , G r a h a m
T h e H o l d o u t
F E B R U A R Y 1 9 , 2 0 2 6
M c F a d d e n , F r e i d a
T h e H o u s e m a i d
M A R C H 1 9 , 2 0 2 6
M o o r e , L i z
T h e G o d o f t h e W o o d s
A P R I L 1 6 , 2 0 2 6
B a n n e d B o o k s
C h o o s e a b a n n e d b o o k o f y o u r
c h o i c e a n d b r i n g i t a l o n g f o r
a n e n g a g i n g d i s c u s s i o n !
T h e B o o k G r o u p i s a c a s u a l g a t h e r i n g
o f L a n d i n g s r e s i d e n t s a n d t h e i r g u e s t s
w h o c o m e t o g e t h e r t o d i s c u s s t h e
c h o s e n b o o k e a c h m o n t h .
F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n c a l l P a t D a n i e l s 8 4 7 - 3 4 5 - 5 4 4 1
G O O D B O O K S | I N F O R M A L D I S C U S S I O N | G R E A T C O M P A N Y
SCHOONER
Out with the old, in with the new on the LYGTC Board!
RIC & MARY
WILSON-TAUSON
rooesq@juno.com
On Friday, April 4, retired LYGTC Board president Mary Wilson-Tauson and spouse, Ric, celebrated the passing of the gavel at a gathering at the Schooner pool largely catered by Compass Rose employees Kimmie Shuebrook and Noah Mitcheff serving libations and appetizers. Liz and Lisa helped out behind the scenes with planning, shopping and music.
Billed as a Just Because Party, Mary elaborated to explain it was Just Because Life is especially good in Schooner and in The Landings. It was an opportunity for the Tausons to thank Schoonerites (and a few LYGTC Board members with whom Mary worked most closely) for their friendship and support over the past six years while she served on The Landings Board as a member and then president for two years.
The Landings Rosana Jaramillo, Director of Administration, and GM David Gillespie stopped in and a special addition was Shirley Rasmussen who is here for a couple of weeks with daughter-in-law Anne Marie.
Scot Elrod and Crystal Day.
Shirley Rasmussen (right) with her daughter-in-law Anne Marie Rasmussen.
Mary congratulated Schooner’s new representative to the LYGTC Board, Crystal Day. Although Crystal has been coming to the area for years with family, she and her partner, Scot Elrod, only recently moved to Schooner after five years in Sunset Harbor, joining her brother and sister-in-law, Gus and Deb Gustafson.
Crystal and Scot met online while both were living in Colorado. Scot’s professional background is primarily in financial planning. Crystal is a retired nurse and her last position was as president/CEO of a multi-location home health agency. Her strong commitment to giving back to the community as well as her broad experience on a variety of boards and respect for protocol and process prepare her well for her role on the Board. Formerly secretary of the golf committee, she now serves as a non-voting member. She also is active
in the LYC working on membership. She particularly enjoys socializing with family and friends. Scot especially enjoys boating and golf and is active on the Wellness Committee and in the United Way Campaign. Scot has one daughter, Crystal a son, daughter, and five grandchildren. The March pool party unfortunately overlapped with the spring chorus but both events were successful. Maria Aponte and Chris Dixon performed in Sarah and Steve Noyes manned the grill.
the former. Co-hosts for the latter were John and Michele Shepherd, Steve and Sarah Noyes, and Jay and Sharon Buckley.
March was a big birthday month for Schooner ladies most of whom were able to attend our March 31 luncheon: Theresa Brooks, Sharon Buckley, Jackie Dorval, Susan Kolmer, Michele Shepherd, Trish Thomas, and the most senior, Jonnie Ockerlund at 95! We all look forward to Shirley Rasmussen turning 100 this coming summer!
JUNE 14 , 2025
Jonnie Ockerlund enjoys another birthday.
MARINERS COVE
Mariners Cove Village came in sixth in the InterVillage Golf Challenge. Way to go!
PAT BENNER patharben@aol.com
Speaking of golf, congratulations go out to Stephen Fletcher who had a hole-in-one on #9 with a 5 wood. Good job Stephen!
There were over 100 people who attended the Easter Worship service at Picnic Pointe on a beautiful but windy morning. Organized
by Janice Purse for the fourth year, the music team was Jack and Janice Purse, with Rick Brown from Ariel. For the second year, Cindi and Joe Ferrini from Steamboat delivered a wonderful message.
The newly formed MCV Social Committee for the season 2025-26 is Janice Purse, Tanya Glattly, Grace Berg and Rachel Goldberg.
The Mariners Cove Village represented their community well in the InterVillage Golf Challenge.
Rick Brown with Jack music
Jack and Janice Purse (from left) provided the music for the Easter service.
A new Habitat for Humanities home was dedicated recently in North Fort Myers. This home was built through the generosity of the legacy of Betty and Tom Marshall. The Marshalls moved to Mariners Cove Village in December 2001 from Sabal Springs where they had lived for three years. Tom and Betty both passed away last year.
Betty and Tom Marshall left a wonderful legacy.
Betty worked as a hair stylist for 15 and a half years and then, for another 15 and a half years, as the first female, joined Tom to work at Pittsburgh Plate Glass where they made aircraft windshields. Tom, who worked there for 17 years, ran a machine to defrost and defog windshields.
The Marshalls married in Newport, KY on March 9, 1960, right after Tom coached his last basketball game for the Cincinnati Royals. Tom played five years, two in the military, and was a player/coach for six months and a coach for a year. Tom was the top draft choice for the Rochester Royals in 1954. He moved with them to the Cincinnati Royals, was traded to the Detroit Pistons, then was brought back to Cincinnati. They purchased a bar there that they ran for three-plus years.
Betty and Tom were boaters and fishermen in St. James City and in Mariners Cove. They both took up golf. Betty sold 57 of her oil paintings and Tom discovered the art of Intarsia, making many beautiful pieces of woodworking and working on jigsaw puzzles with up to 1,000 pieces.
The Landings app makes it easy to stay connected right from your phone. Whether you're booking a tee time, checking your statement, or reaching out to friends, everything you need is just a tap away. It’s the simplest way to stay in the loop with your Landings community and enjoy all the perks of Club life.
MEMBER DIRECTORY
FORETEES ACCESS
STATEMENTS
EVENT CALENDAR
DINING RESERVATIONS
HOW TO GET STARTED:
Search for Landings YGTC in the App Store or Google Play-or scan the QR code. Log in using your member credentials and explore everything the app has to offer!