Happy Landings
EXCITEMENT BUILDING
4th Annual Lee County Girls’ High School Invitational!
A Look Inside
REEFS AND WREATHS Fishing Club SUMMER OF 2024 GOLF CORNER
IN THIS ISSUE
Production Directors
Stephen Miller
Elizabeth Miller
Sales Department
Margo Williams
Becky Pruitt
Miranda Ledbeter
Alyssa Debban
Accounting and Sales Support
Selina Koehler
Production Manager
Lee Nostrant
Production Department
Elaine Donholt
Ruth Nekoranec
Katie Heystek
Dianne Strout
Karen Kalisz
Michelle Feeney
Andie Reynolds
Excitement Building: 4th Annual Lee County Girls’ High School Invitational!
The 4th Annual Lee County Girls’ High School Invitational will take place Saturday, February 15th, and Sunday, February 16th, 2025. (Monday, February 17, will be a rain date.) We are planning for a full draw of both singles and doubles, and we welcome girls from public, private, and home schools to come and play on our beautiful
courts with a welcoming, enthusiastic audience!
The Invitational continues to make a difference in the lives of high school girls to enjoy a terrific sport and play in a wonderful environment due to three major factors. We have an amazing group of Volunteers, including Ambassadors, that give time and work and attention to create a wonderful tournament. We also salute our generous Business Sponsors and Resident Patrons who fund this tournament, and the numerous $750 Delta Grants to public schools gained through an application process. Lastly, we thank The Landings professional tennis staff led by Bella Graf and the administrative and maintenance team that provides such a fabulous setting.
This event is a fund at Collaboratory, formerly known as the Southwest Florida Community Foundation. Monies collected are tax-deductible except for chances to win the Grand Slam baskets. If you wish to participate as a Business Sponsor or a Resident Patron, you may send your tax-deductible check made out
to Collaboratory to Gina Dengler, Collaboratory, 2031 Jackson Street, Fort Myers, FL, 33901. Please put Account 132070 in the memo line or the name of the Invitational. We thank you in advance!
THE SOUTHWEST FLORIDA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION, INC. DBA COLLABORATORY IS REGISTERED WITH THE STATE OF FLORIDA PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 496, SECTION
496.405 OF THE FLORIDA STATUTES.A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION (#CH661) AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE (1-800-4357352) WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. WWW.800HELPFLA.COM.
The 4th Annual Lee County Girls’ High School Invitational will take place Saturday, February 15th, and Sunday, February 16th, 2025. (Monday, February 17, will be a rain date.)
The Landings: Halloween Style
PHOTOS BY GRACE STEWART
ADMINISTRATION OFFICE
482-3211 • FAX 482-1796
General Manager: David Gillespie
RESOURCE HUB
PUBLISHER
Seabreeze Communications
EDITORS
Happy Landings
Director of Administration: Rosana Jaramillo
Director of Activities and Communication: Michele Lawson
Controller: Kim Cummings
HAPPY LANDINGS
The Official Community News
Head Editor: Sheryl Winters sherylwinters@comcast.net
Editors
Linda Tucker tuckerllo@comcast.net
Barb June junefamily@sbcglobal.net
Joan Davison Davisonjoana@gmail.com
Hazel Jones, hazelwhitejones.hl@gmail.com
Copy Editor: Karen Reitan, kreitan@comcast.net
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 until noon on the 4th 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 JAN. 2024
December 4, 12 Noon
General Manager’s Report
DAVID GILLESPIE
OCTOBER 18, 2024
Another hurricane has come and gone! We’ve had two come through this summer and we have survived both with relatively minor damage. Many thanks to our wonderful staff for all their contributions in keeping the grounds, buildings and members safe. They all make it look so easy, but it’s a lot of additional work to pack up and unpack the club’s assets.
Summer projects are generally complete and we’re keeping our eyes focused on season. Repairs to tennis court infrastructures on courts 5, 6, 7, 8 and fencing
issues are done. Equipment for each department has been purchased this summer and is in use. Seasonal staff are coming back in and are getting ready every day. The Wheelhouse creeps closer to completion and should be open in the near future. Hiring staff for the Wheelhouse is going on daily, but is progressing slowly. The labor market is extremely tight and quality staff are very hard to find and retain. Thanks to the members who have made referrals for staff hires. We follow every lead, and are still actively pursuing quality staff. If you know of anyone from your travels, please send us their contact information.
Reservations, reservations, reservations! Please keep in mind, dining reservations like anything else, are greatly appreciated and necessary as we move into our busy season. Call the club or use the online reservation system as often as needed. Also make reservations for special events. These special occasions will fill up quickly, so think ahead!
Committee applications will be available in November. You will receive the application via the club’s email system and you can find copies of the application form in the flyer racks throughout the property’s flyer racks. If you would like to review the process for committee applications, please refer to section 6 of the Rules and Regulations, in particular 6.4.1, 6.4.2, and 6.4.3.
Financial Report
SUMMARY OF SEPTEMBER 2024
The club’s financial performance in September saw revenue and profit below budget expectations.
FINANCIAL SUMMARY
• Monthly Revenue: $823,202, falling short by $11,938
• YTD Revenue: $12,776,090, under budget by $423,263 but ahead of last year by $361,094
• Operating Profit: Monthly loss of ($43,191), while YTD operating profit is $283,584, missing the budget by $387,209
DEPARTMENTAL PERFORMANCE
• Food & Beverage: Revenue was $82,634, trailing the budget by $23,128. Costs for food were 41.5% (above budget), and wages were significantly over budget. YTD loss reached ($707,601), exceeding budgeted loss by $273,703.
• Golf: Revenue of $24,475 exceeded budget by $8,232, but higher merchandise costs led to a YTD loss of ($170,774), a negative variance of $84,911.
• Tennis: YTD loss is $407,263, slightly better than the budget by $8,412, though revenue lags by $35,595.
• Marina: Fuel sales were below budget, but subcontractor work offset this. The department reported a profit of $13,984 for the month.
• Administration & General: Over budget by $18,191 due to contract labor.
• Community Patrol: Exceeded budget by $12,950 with a YTD loss of ($566,497), over budget by $29,572.
• Golf Course & Property Maintenance: Both departments faced monthly and YTD budget overages, mainly in expenses.
• Utilities: Utility expenses came in $3,542 under budget.
BALANCE SHEET
• Infrastructure Reserve: $333,746
• Reserves Future Long Range: $241,412
• Operating Cash Balance: $1,942,136
Duplicate Bridge Club Post-Milton News; Holiday Party Notice
BILL FERRIS
As all LDBC players know by now, Hurricane Milton disturbed the Sanibel Regional Tournament at the Sanibel Marriott Harbour Resort and Spa before it got properly underway. Before the tournament was officially canceled on Monday, October 7th, the first half-day of competition saw a downsized stratified game played by a small group of steadfast teams as Milton swirled around the hotel. The ACBL is trying to revive the tournament as a February substitute lest Division Nine lose its Southwest Florida regional tournament for the year. As we receive further notice, players will be updated as to how discussion on the matter of a replacement tournament progresses.
Meanwhile, the LDBC’s Opening Day for the 2024-25 season began Monday, October 14th, and proceeded smoothly. Our esteemed Director, Judy Cleveland, has returned, and seven tables of opposing pairs participated, three more than at last year’s opening. Table counts since then have stabilized at nine per week. Presently there is plenty of room for more pairs, and we hope to see the table count increase steadily as the snowbirds continue returning. New members are always invited.
All residents of The Landings and other members of the Club are welcome to attend by signing up in advance with Partnership Chair, Lynne Birdt, and arriving at the Garden Room on Monday mornings. You must be in your seat by 9 a.m. Games continue throughout the holiday season this year as no holidays fall on a Monday.
CHRISTMAS PARTY
DECEMBER 2, 2024
The LDBC annual Christmas Party is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Monday, December 2, 2024, shortly after our regular 9 a.m. game concludes, in the Garden Room at the Helm Club. Sue Wotton, Club Treasurer, and Board members, Lynne Birdt, and Barb Coneys, are planning the event. The menu is similar to last year’s, and includes soup, sandwiches, soda, and chocolate! The bar will be open for those seeking additional liquid cheer.
Finally, we have received formal word that one of our members, Dave Hutson, has reached the level of Ruby Life Master, joining our four other club Rubies— Pat Tylander, Deb Root, and Bill Ferris. Congratulations, Dave!
LDBC REGISTRATION AND PARTY COMMITTEE MEMBER, SUE WOTTON
LDBC’S NEW RUBY LIFE MASTER, DAVE HUTSON
Chess and Checkers Club News
JOHN WINTERS
Our new season officially started October 1 and ends May 1. We continue to meet in the same place at the Helm/ Bridge Room. Our meeting time remains the same: Tuesdays 10 a.m. to noon. We never know for sure if we are always in the Bridge Room. If you come to the Helm looking for us and we are not there, most likely we’ve been moved to the Compass Room. On December 3, they have us meeting in the Compass Room.
Our club unofficial champion, Tom Poulos, recently played in a chess tournament held October 4-6 at Embassy Suites Hotel in Estero. Over 100 players participated. The skill levels ranged from novice to grand master. There were five
sections, and you could play in the section corresponding to your skill level. The cash prizes totaled $9,000. If interested, talk to him about the details. Perhaps several of us should go with Tom next year to this tournament in Estero. Tom would have to give us some lessons on use of chess clocks and other rules of tournament play.
I experienced two epiphanies about improving my chess play. My style of play is attack, attack, and attack (especially when I’m playing white pieces). When thinking about this style, I realized there needs to be more time devoted to planning where my opponent is going to move. It is a balance. I must be thinking about where I’m
going to move, but also an equal amount of time speculating where my opponent will move.
My other bright idea is to improve my endgame play. During the endgame, there are fewer pieces on the board. You would think you should be able to play faster because of fewer pieces to worry about. My conclusion is that during the endgame, one needs to think longer and harder as to the correct move. During the opening and middlegame, I may spend five minutes on figuring out where to move. But during the endgame, I need to spend ten minutes or more figuring where to move.
Don’t forget to protect your king (and your queen!).
Reefs And Wreaths
LEROY FLEMING
Reefs enhance the marine environment and protect the ecosystems. Artificial or natural, these habitats provide safe haven and food for more than 250 species in Southwest Florida waters. Shallow waters to more than 30 miles offshore, from Charlotte harbor, Pine Island Sound, moving south past Marco Island these reefs litter the ocean floor. Lee County artificial reef program includes planning and maintenance of existing sites, monitoring reef quality, along with educating the public about the role that these reefs play in our marine ecosystem. These reefs hold sea life that recreational divers enjoy, and anglers hope to catch. Mother nature has done her job in creating the natural reefs and now man has recognized his role by adding the artificial reefs. From stone and concrete, to sinking old ships, to rubble from storm wreckage, these reefs are making future generations in line to appreciate our environment.
Mother Nature does wonderful things but it’s hard to find her handiwork in the form of a circle. The wreath comes from an old English word “writhian” which means twist. Wreaths were traced back to the Persian Empire, Egypt, and Greece. Used primarily as headdresses and awarded to show symbols of power, authority, or victory. Wreaths made their debut as holiday decorations in connection with Yule. This marked the winter solstice and was celebrated by ancient Germanic and Scandinavian peoples. Wreaths symbolized the promise and return of Spring. Today the most common use for wreaths is in connection with Christmas
beginning in the 16th century. Candles were added to symbolize hope, love, joy and peace.
The Landing Fishing Club will hold its December meeting on Wednesday 12-4-24 in the Garden Room at the Helm Club at 6:30 p.m.
Take a break from all those Christmas shopping days, just bring the family (all ages) to the Helm Club Lake Family Fishing tournament on Monday 12-23-24 at 8:00 a.m. by the golf cart barn. Prizes will be awarded!
TGIF Pizza Party & Monthly Membership Meetings, Tournaments, Outings, Annual Shrimp Boil and Annual Fish Dinner Email Miki Blackmon: blackmonmiki@icloud com or pick up a Membership Application in the Marina LFC Folder
LLGA-18 Ladies Golf Happenings!
My goodness, the month has been a busy one for the league. Recovering from hurricane damage didn’t seem to stop the activity in this community. Our gals started with the “Easiest Holes” and Susie Scharber in Flt. 1 and Carol Donohue in 2nd Flt. took 1st. Right on target was Karen Shelton with both CTP’s. Great golfing, everyone!
The BIG event of the month was our “Welcome Back” where we host our 9-hole league annually. Thanks to Gretchen Phillips and Nancy Yavorsky for planning such a terrific day of looking back at the history of our league. The
winning team of the day was Lindy Worrall, Kathy Zelie, Kathy Knight and Lin Muysson.
Special guests were invited to the luncheon, who had been long time League members in the past. These “Legacy Ladies” were very active in the works of our league for numerous years, including, Doris Kelly being Champion of the 18 Hole League more than once, Eileen Lancia Vice-President and hosted many special events, Jackie Dorval who was our LEGA representative for years allowing us to visit many regional courses. Carol Lundgren actively took care of our finances before computers were a part of our system. Wanda Jacobs created some great photo albums and was our wonderful
historian. Our 9-Hole Legacy guests are Mary Laferty and Pat Rosen. You can see why our leagues have been so successful with great members volunteering their time for all our benefit. Thank you, ladies, for so many memorable years.
We have been informed that our wonderful Head Professional, Zach Cooper, will be leaving us to begin a new chapter in the life of golf and his family. Thank you, Zach, for all you have done in the world of golf at The Landings. We appreciate the
MARY ANN SPRY
new events you have introduced and the support you gave to us all. Good luck to you in your new venture.
LEGA events are coming in and we look forward to visiting Burnt Store Golf Club in Punta Gorda, and Seven Lakes Country Club in December. We love meeting these ladies and hope to make The Landings proud.
Results for our “Stableford” play were 1st place winners in 4 flights: Lynda Redmon, Pat Bailer, Christy Fitz, and Mary Paulson.
The Annual Pro-Am will again be played here at The Landings where Pros from area golf courses come for this great tournament to support Junior Golf in SWFL. This is an amazing event and a terrific experience to play along with one of the invited Pros. Support the youth by sponsoring a sign, hole,
etc. Check it out! The date is December 6th.
Enjoy the month and the many Holiday activities that seem to creep up too fast.
Happy Holidays to all...visit the Pro-shop for some great gift ideas.
WELCOME BACK LADIES LUNCHEON
Nine-Hole News: A New Celebration Almost Every Week
MICHELE CAVANAGH
Welcome back to all the Snowbirds! It’s great to have so many ladies return to the Landings and our Nine-Hole league. Each week the number of players continues to grow. We are now back to having players go out on both the front and back nine. Cheri Schwartz acted as our unofficial welcome back ambassador, sporting her red, white and blue and happily posing with fellow golfers. Thanks for your enthusiasm, Cheri!
Hurricane Milton made an unwelcome visit resulting in very wet conditions and a week of no golf. The silver lining is that The Landings and the course did not experience too much damage and Rocky and his team got the course ready for the next week.
The following week, Cindy Brown planned a Breast Cancer Awareness Day. A representative
from Lee County Health provided information packages. There was a sea of pink on the course and the Ladies Nine-Hole League donated $125 to support Breast Cancer Research. Thank you, Cindy!
On the final Friday in October, flappers, witches, superheroes, cats and other animals as well as many people dressed in black and orange were spotted on the golf course. During the round, there was even a surprise hole where players were offered a “Bloody Mary” shot. Donut holes and apple cider were enjoyed after the round. Thanks to Donna Hendricks and Lin Muysson for organizing the Halloween tricks and treats!
Thank you to the October hostesses Debra Bates and Grace Berg. We loved seeing your smiling faces bright and early on Friday mornings!
COSTUME WINNERS WERE PAT BENNAR AND KATHY LANGTON
DONNA HENDRICKS AND LIN MUTSSON OFFERING UP SOME HALLOWEEN TREATS
WELCOME BACK FROM LEFT TO RIGHT ARE COOKIE SMITH, CHERI SCHWARTZ, SUZANNE MCGAULEY AND TERI FIRRIOLO
Around the Greens – News from the LMGA
BENTLEY COLLINS
Our new season has begun and with the hot, wet weather of summer behind us, the Landings Men’s Golf Association is off and running for another season. With more than 200 members, our field of players is full every Saturday. Games range from individual play, to team scrambles and shambles, medal and match play. And every first Saturday of the month we all can enjoy a delicious brunch after golf.
If you are new to The Landings and wish to join, application forms are available in the Pro Shop. It’s a great way to meet fellow Landings golfers.
On Saturday November 16, the LMGA hosted their annual Guys and Dolls tournament where a member invites a female golfer to partner with them for 18 holes of golf and
a delicious meal to follow. The format for the day was “modified alternate shot” where each partner teed off; then a decision was made as to which ball was the best one to play. The partner who did not hit the drive hit the next shot and so on until the ball was in the hole. It’s always a fun time and most couples are still talking to each other at the end of the round J. We’ll have the results and images for you in next month’s article.
CELEBRATION OF LEGACY
Now some serious stuff: How many of you know that all golf courses are rated as to their difficulty? Well, our course, like all others, is rated by the USGA, our national golfing authority. Last summer the team from the USGA came to The Landings to re-rate our course and the result is that the rating came out just slightly higher than it was previously. All that means is that when you post scores to the GHIN handicap system, the higher rated courses give you a small bonus in your handicap calculation.
While rating the course, the raters decide which holes are most difficult and which are easiest. You’ll notice on the score card that there are men’s and women’s handicap numbers on each hole from 1 (hardest) to 18 (easiest). These numbers are important to you as you play competitive rounds here at The Landings. If your handicap is, let’s say, “10,” then you get a “stroke” on holes marked 1 through 10. I’m not going to delve any further into this for now and just leave it there. If you know the handicap system, then “you know” and if you just play casual golf and never post your scores then it really doesn’t matter at all. New score cards are being printed and will be available soon.
Hit ‘em straight!
Artist: Christine Adele
Piecemakers
PHYLLIS HOLLEY
Judy Kennedy is one of the outstanding quilters here in The Landings. In fact, she has a direct connection to the famous painting by Gustav Klimt, The Woman in Gold.
Judy created this quilt of the famous painting in an odd sort of way. Judy obtained the panel of the Woman in Gold & had plans for it. While on vacation, she was able to find the fabrics to coordinate with the panel, and as she had a vision, she was not waiting for the comfort of a sewing room and cutting table. Her pieces were cut on the picnic table while traveling through North Carolina in their RV!
Once the quilt top was put together, Judy worked with a professional quilter to highlight her beautiful creation. But the story goes on. While in New York, Judy was able to see the original painting at the Robert Lauder NEUE Galerie. Judy has displayed the quilt in her home entry way. It is truly a work of art. Judy’s other works of art include a guitar and a piano. Both quilts are also of museum quality.
month. She & her husband, Eddie, have been residents of The Landings for over 10 years. They were professional hair stylists with their own shop and traveled back & forth (which clients demanded!) for 10 years. Finally, they have made the smart move to full time residency in Ariel, and now travel back and forth to be with family.
Judy is a prolific quilter and has a wonderful eye for color and design. She shares her talent with the PIECEMAKERS quilting group that meets every first Tuesday and third Friday of each
If you have questions about PIECEMAKERS or would like additional information about the group, please contact Phyllis Holley at 239-410-8794 or Cathy Steeves, 207-650-1631.
JUDY KENNEDY WITH HER QUILT CREATION, “THE WOMAN IN GOLD”
JUDY KENNEDY WITH HER GUITAR QUILT CREATION
JUDY KENNEDY WITH HER PIANO QUILT CREATION
Golf Corner, Summer of 2024
ROCKY FORD
What can I say except “Wow!” The summer of 2024 was very demanding here at The Landings. We experienced 3 hurricanes, record heat indexes, many days above 110 degrees, and in four months, June through September, we had approximately 70” of rain which is more than double what we normally average during this time. Play on the course and the driving range were impacted throughout this time by being closed or cart path only for much of the summer. Many questions have been brought up about drainage on the golf course, but the drainage is fine; remember we are right on the water, received record amounts of rain and at times there was just
THE
LANDINGS’ BEAUTIFUL GOLF COURSE nowhere for all the water to go. Important to remember that water goes both ways and to the path of least resistance. Anytime you raise, lower or adjust your drainage, there’s a good chance it will impact someone else.
Even with all these challenges we were able to accomplish the majority of our goals planned for the summer agronomical program. Four closers that included aerifications, verti cutting, topdressing, fertilizing, cart path repairs, new plantings, pest control and many other items needed to keep the Landings up to the standards the members deserve. We have a dedicated staff that works incredibly hard, many who have been here for years with very little turnover. That tells me we’re hiring quality employees and with the support for them from the Landings which constantly improves we should be able to continue down this road in the future. In my 40 years of being in this industry I have never had such a small staff and been prouder of the accomplishments they have made over the 10+ years I’ve been here. Looking forward to a great 2024-2025 season.
Landings Library News
PHYLLIS HOLLEY
WELCOME BACK to our generous readers! Thank you in advance for donating your favorite reads published AFTER 2013. The library is a beautiful place to sit down for a relaxing read, perhaps share one of your favorite books with another avid reader, or simply have a gander at our new additions and all the wonderful stories available to you.
For our new residents and reminder to our seasoned residents: you may donate your gently used books published after 2013 to The Landings library. Please place them in the wire basket inside the door. They will be labeled and shelved for all to enjoy.
Fiction and non-fiction hard backs and paperbacks are welcomed. Popular reads seem to be historical novels, mysteries, biographies, and romances. Due to space, magazines and reference books including cookbooks, self-help, technical, or foreign language books cannot be accommodated on our library’s shelves and are therefore not acceptable.
Our puzzle shelves are full of beautiful and fun scenes. If you are donating a puzzle, please place ALL pieces in a zip lock bag and tape the box closed. Please do not return or donate puzzles that are missing pieces.
GREEN BOOK CHANGES: HAPPY LANDINGS
DECEMBER ISSUE, 2024 -CLIP & SAVE THESE
Up to date through: October 31, 2024
DELETIONS:
• Leah Acton & Brian Dicicco
9901 Sunset Cove Lane #234
• Kristen Garole & Beth Waller
4384 Bowsprit Court #1B
• John & Christina Lael
4596 S. Landings Drive
• Kenneth Sands
4140 Steamboat Bend East #303
• Frank Shane
9540 Mariner’s Cove Lane
ADDITIONS:
• Christopher & Jean Boltz
9901 Sunset Cove Lane #234
716-570-1970 & 716-574-5910
• Joseph & Margaret Fisher
4140 Steamboat Bend East #303 317-501-4088 & 317-979-9160
• Kevin & Susan Hill
4384 Bowsprit Court #1B 317-714-4427 & 317-308-0865
• Michael & Elizabeth O’Sick
4596 S. Landings Drive 678-858-5626 & 678-858-2937
• Malva Ruthenberg
9540 Mariner’s Cove Lane 410-404-8741
Tennis Corner
JOAN DAVISON
Welcome back snowbirds! It seems the whole flock of you came back the last weekend in October. It was great to see all the courts busy and everyone having fun.
The Landings once again hosted the Les Petites Tennis Tournament which was scheduled to run Saturday and Sunday, Oct 5th and 6th. Women from all over Lee County were set to face off against each other and have fun at the same time. Hurricane Milton had other ideas but Director of Racquet Sports, Bella Graf, quickly pivoted and changed the games into an “8 game Pro Set” with no ads. This meant that the winning doubles team had to win best of 8
games. The format allowed the tournament to move quickly, and by the end of the day champions were crowned. The Main Draw champions were Barbara Danklefsen and Bernie Wolf from Lexington Country Club. Main Draw finalists were Inge Zimmerman and Suzanne McGauley from The Landings.
JOYCE ARSENEAU AND SALLY LINDABURY RECEIVING THEIR PRIZE FROM TYLER COOPER, NATHAN SMILEY AND BELLA GRAFF
INGE ZIMMERMAN AND SUZANNE MCGAULEY, MAIN DRAW FINALISTS
Joyce Arseneau and Sally Lindabury from Lexington were the Consolation Draw champions.
This month I want to highlight two more of our Racquet Program staff.
Pete Della-Luna, our Pickleball Pro, was born in Longmeadow, MA. He started playing tennis at three years old and hasn’t stopped. After playing tennis in high school and college he found Pickleball when a college tennis team friend introduced him to the sport. The friend was playing Pickleball at the US Open in Naples and invited Pete to check it out. And that was that, Pete was hooked! He got certified to teach during Covid and has been a PPR certified Professional Instructor ever since. As well as teaching at the Landings, Pete coaches at a variety of clubs and communities in SWFL. He’s also the Pickleball Head Coach for Lee County Special Olympics. On top of all that he runs Pickleball travel leagues. When not on the courts, Pete enjoys hanging out with his wife Brandie and twins Kaelie and Charlie.
Southwestern State College where she is working diligently to become a dental hygienist. Balancing coursework and hands on experience so that she can excel in the dental field. Her journey from the tennis courts of South Fort Myers High to the healthcare community of Florida shows her commitment and hard work. We are lucky to have this exceptional young lady work in the Landings Tennis Shop.
Remember, always keep your eye on the ball!
Lainy Picone, Tennis Shop assistant, was born in Cape Coral and has lived her whole life in SWFL. She graduated from South Fort Myers High School where she demonstrated both academic and athletic talent. A dedicated student, she also played tennis with determination and passion. Currently, Lainy is studying at Florida
PICKLEBALL PRO PETE DELLA-LUNA
LAINY PICONE, TENNIS SHOP ASSISTANT
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
TRAWLER
AL & PATTI PALUMBO thealster6@gmail.com
Trawler Village Kicks off new season with Halloween Party Trawler Village had a wonderful Halloween party at the Trawler pool on Halloween. Thanks to Ann Collier, Marylou Longworth and Pat Daniels. And the men of Trawler who helped with set up. Congratulations to Doug and Shery Craig for the fantastic costumes.
Trawler Notches another Hole In One
Jon Box had a hole in one on hole #2 last Sunday. Having a hole in one on the 2nd hole is a great feat. Way to go Jon.
Appreciation for Our Volunteers
Thanks to all the Trawler Owners who volunteered their upper floor units to first floor residents who were here during Hurricane Milton. Luckily, we came through with no serious problems, but being on higher ground gave them a sense of relief.
WINDJAMMER
PAM DAHLBERG
skiingmom@aol.com
Oktoberfest
On Sunday, October 20, 2024, 55 Windjammer residents had a fun time enjoying a great meal, trivia and authentic oompah music. The association provided brats, condiments and buns. The attendees brought outstanding side dishes. We had sauerkraut,
cheese spaetzle, red cabbage, homemade pretzels, German potato salad, party sausage, and beer cheese soup, just to name a few of the wonderful side dishes. The desserts were amazing: apple strudel, German chocolate cake, and honey cookies. Dennis Clark provided a special treat in a glass, “Apple Pie on the Rocks.” Thank you all for contributing your delicious delicacies.
The best part was how much everyone enjoyed the day. Thank you to the volunteers for all the help moving the furniture and setting up tables and chairs. Thank you especially to the Social Committee: Eva Bell, Julie Iverson and Betty Kolar. Also, a big thanks to Tom Bell and Betty Kolar, and the Trivia Master for grilling and serving the brats. Great event!
We can’t wait for the November Sunday Funday. Wear your favorite team colors and enjoy different pulled pork sliders and banging side dishes. Be sure to save room for dessert. “We’re going Cold Turkey” is the theme for this party. At this event we are asking for donations to the Gladiolus Food Pantry. Please be generous.
HAZEL JONES
Ariel shares Hurricanes
Chris Duca, president of the Ariel Board, joined Board member Rick Brown in hosting a party to mark the second anniversary of Hurricane Ian. They prepared and donated all the ingredients for two gallons of Hurricane cocktails, filled with enough booze to reach Category 5 strength. The cocktails were garnished with an orange slice holding a Traverse City whiskey cherry.
Every drop of the cocktails were consumed and just three of the 60 garnishes remained.
The Hurricane cocktails weren’t all that was provided. Both Chris and Rick smoked pork tenderloins to share with the attendees. One was smoked with red wine and pork seasoning. The other featured smoked cherry wood chipotle with an Asian glaze that provided a contrasting hot and sweet taste.
CHRIS DUCA (LEFT) AND RICK BROWN WERE PARTY HOSTS.
STEVE SMITH (LEFT) AND DENNIS YAVORSKY SAMPLE THE FOOD.
Another Board member, Steve Smith, made a hot queso dip that was served with crunchy tortilla chips that went well with the drinks. All the food was delicious.
Ariel residents are lucky to have chefs and mixologists who share their talents. Everything at this party was
not only prepared but also donated by the generous Board members.
All those who attended appreciated the time they spent together. Owners are grateful that the repairs and refurbishment at Ariel are nearing completion and the building is becoming more beautiful as work is done.
MAISIE SEIVERLING maisieseiverling@yahoo.com
POOL PARTY
Clipper had its first pool party of the season. Great fun. Great attendance. Everyone enjoyed meeting our new residents Guy and Donna Hughes from Indiana.
TRAVELS
Cheryl and Ken Creasey celebrated their tenth anniversary on a Viking Ocean cruise. They traveled to Montreal, Quebec City, Prince Edward Island, Portland, Bar Harbor and New York City.
ARIEL RESIDENTS ENJOYED THE PARTY.
PHOTO BY DENNIS YAVORSKY
CLIPPER COVE
KEN AND CHERYL CREASEY IN CHARLOTTETOWN, PEI
Dennis and Dana Hahn spent a month cruising from Kentucky to Fort Myers through the rivers, Mobile Bay, Florida Panhandle and the Gulf of Mexico on their 34-foot Nordic Tug. Seeing everything and meeting likeminded friends are part of the Great Loop adventure. Dennis especially enjoys the challenges: when one must go with plan B, for instance,
when your generator needs a new part; when your wife cannot lasso a tall stationary dock pole; when wind makes you hustle to the Gulf to wait for two great weather days to cross; when a raccoon comes aboard; when hurricanes change your plans and close marinas; when you have left the dock and are almost out in the marina channel and Dana says, “Oh no, we forgot to load the bikes!” Oh, the joys. The Hahns would not trade this experience for anything!
ADVENTURES
Jeff and Angie Leonard finally used a Christmas present from two years ago. They took a balloon trip and had a fabulous morning with a beautiful sunrise.
FLAGSHIP
pparrett1@comcast.net
As our snowbird neighbors continue to return to our community, we enjoy hearing about everyone’s summer and fall adventures. Hiking to the summit of Mt. Etna was one of the highlights that Jean Hokana (4604) and Colleen Maloney experienced on their travels to Sicily late September. The trip began in the beautiful seacoast city of Taormina followed by a week of bicycling in the southeastern part of the island
DANA AND DENNIS ON AN ADVENTURE!
THE ONLY WAY TO FLY!
PATTI PARRETT
which included Scicli, the Noto Valley and ending in Siracusa after reaching the southernmost part of Sicily, with other stops in between. Aside from bicycling, the tour included black truffle hunting, cheese making, a cooking class on making arancino, a tour of a bee farm with honey tastings, witnessing the olive harvest in progress, swimming in the Ionian Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. They also enjoyed dining on delicious Sicilian food, many scoops of gelato and drinking a little bit of wine.
JEAN AND COLLEEN MALONEY IN SICILY
We all know that in the Fall, love is in full bloom, just like autumn flowers. Bryce and Lanna Christensen (4612) celebrated two of their children’s weddings this fall. Their son Sterling had an intimate ceremony at the family campground in Spearfish, SD, on a beautiful, sunny afternoon, and daughter Bryanna married the love of her life in Oklahoma City,
surrounded by many families and friends.
We had a bootiful pool party just before Halloween. There were twenty-some attendees who shared some fabulous appetizers and desserts, including chocolate mice and green shortbread finger cookies that looked creepy, but tasted
THE CHRISTENSEN FAMILY
delicious! What a great way to kick off the season! We even caught Becky Ross (4604) flirting with one of the guests!
BECKY ROSS GETTING FRIENDLY WITH AN UNKNOWN GUEST
It is with sadness that we say farewell to two of our favorite neighbors, Len and Karen Titone. They have been neighbors for 5 years, bringing joy to all passersbys with their friendly greetings and stunning photos on our Facebook page. Best of luck on your new adventures and come back and say hello when you’re in the neighborhood!
LONGBOAT
Longboat Village Budget
Meeting – The Longboat Village Budget Meeting was held on October 30th in the Bridge Room of the Helm Club. Both the President, John Naifeh, and the Treasurer, Alan Power, worked hard to keep our costs down for the coming 2025 budget.
Alan and Ann Power – Took two trips to Wisconsin this summer. The first one was to Stevens Point, and the second one to Wausau, where they finally made the decision to purchase a summer home in Rib Mountain, WI (an independent suburb of Wausau). They are looking forward to spending summers there starting next year and returning to their old habit of being snowbirds.
Longboat December Pool Party – The party is scheduled for 5 p.m., December 2nd, and will be held at the McCoy Pavilion (aka Picnic Pointe).
We ask that you bring a dish of your desire to share.
New Longboat Residents – Meet Mark and Suzanne Grantham. They recently purchased 4506 Longboat Lane. The couple is not new to The Landings; they have a unit in Steamboat Bend East, and family in Trawler, Riverside, and Longboat. Suzanne is from Michigan, and Mark is from England. They love sports, BUT really enjoy food and travel, and look forward to swapping stories of travel, food, and adventure when they are available.
MARK AND SUZANNE GRANTHAM
Welcome New Residents – We welcome Elizabeth and Michael O’Sick who purchased 4596 S. Landings Drive. They have moved here from Windjammer Village and perhaps some of you already know them. For those of you that do not, let’s give them a hearty welcome to our village!
ANN POWER
MARINER’S COVE
PAT BENNER patharben@aol.com
Our newest MCV neighbor, Dale Ruthenberg, who was born and raised in Newark, New Jersey, comes to us from Baltimore where she recently
sold her house and her boat to live full time in The Landings. Dale found The Landings through Landings friends who were her neighbors in Baltimore and invited her to visit. She put a bid on a condo in Harbortown but lost out and ended up buying a condo in Windjammer. She was in the midst of decorating when she found the house in Mariners Cove.
Dale has had a myriad of careers: personal trainer, seller of yellow pages ads, and graphic artist. She stopped working to care for her parents and her in-laws and later her husband. She is blessed with two stepchildren and six grandchildren.
Her hobbies include tennis, Mahjong (which she has also taught) and boating. She will be spending part of the time living on her boat moored in Islamorada in the Keys, which she discovered when she and a friend sailed their boats from Baltimore to the Keys. Dale is excited to be here and will be a great addition to our MCV family.
Barbara and Pat Shields will be traveling to Texas over Thanksgiving to see their grandson (and his parents) and will be celebrating the news that they will have a granddaughter in May.
THE SHIELDS’ GRANDSON AND THEIR DOG ANNOUNCING THE COMING OF A BABY GIRL
DALE RUTHENBERG
Mariner’s Cove Village has lost two of our longtime, original owners. Gretchen Howard has moved to Amavida here in Fort Myers where she will be getting the help that she needs.
Kathy Petrone has left to be with the Lord. She was struggling with her 4th bout
of cancer and developed pneumonia and an infection in her chemo port. She will be greatly missed by all of us who knew and loved her and especially her beloved companion, Ray. She was a strong woman and fought so hard. May she rest in God’s peace.
On a happy note, we would like to welcome home Dee Hedges who spent over 40 days in either the hospital or rehab.
SCHOONER
RIC & MARY WILSON-TAUSON rooesq@juno.com
Welcome back, snowbirds! We know it is the season as we see Renelle Nelson back on plant patrol and appreciating that Larry Wagner has been filling in the post well in the offseason. He also did an excellent job celebrating Jackie’s 82nd birthday presenting her with 82
LARRY AND JACKIE WAGNER ON HER 82ND
carnations. It is nice to see Jackie celebrated as she does so much to celebrate everyone else!
We are still catching up with folks’ travels over the summer and early fall. In September, Mike and Kathy Armstrong took a long-awaited trip to visit friends in Kentucky and explore the infamous Bourbon Trail. Mark David & Becky Goss and Brad & Laurie Boone (Steamboat Bend) were full of Kentucky hospitality and shared their homes and lives during the visit. toured Lexington, Bardstown, and Louisville (we are all learning to pronounce Lou-vul!), and visited 7 distilleries, the beautiful horse farms, Louisville Slugger Museum, and even saw a race at Churchill Downs. reported great food and bourbon everywhere! an amazing trip and can’t wait to return.
Mary and Ric Tauson cancelled their Fall trip north, but Ric was bound and determined to make it to a reunion with three of his four children and his granddaughter at Morgan’s marriage to Aulston Marchant. The couple’s first dance was a spectacular tango. The venue was the beautiful Arabella Farm in Sunset, SC.
MORGAN AND AULSTON MARCHANT
RIC WITH SONS, CHRIS AND CLARK, AND DAUGHTER ANDREA.
A note to those who knew Len Howell: The Celebration of Life for Len is on Sunday, January 19th in the Garden Room from 1-3 p.m.
STEAMBOAT BEND EAST
CAROL CUMMINS
callifleur1955@gmail.com
How did it get so late so soon? It’s night before it’s afternoon. December is here before it’s June. My goodness how the time has flown.
How did it get so late so soon? Dr. Seuss
EXQUISITE FALL COLOR IN ILLINOIS THIS YEAR.
As I write this column in early November, actually the day before the election, it helps for me to jump into the month of December realizing it will be over and hopefully a peaceful acceptance of whoever wins.
December is always sparkling with decorations and lights, parties to look forward to, and the year coming to an end.
One of the quotes I saw was, “December is the Friday of the year.” I like to take time to reflect on the past year and think of a word to guide my life in 2025. This year my word will be “River.” It conjures up the idea of being in the flow, ever evolving, and flowing into the Gulf/Ocean where we are all one. It brings me the physical sense of floating which calms my nervous system. How lovely that we have the shores of the Caloosahatchee River right next the The Landings. May your 2025 be filled with fun, friends, and good health.
Next January, I will offer a watercolor painting/tea/wine party for our village residents on any rainy/cold days we might have in Fort Myers. Let me know if you’d like to be put on the list. Contact: Carol, callifleur1955@gmail.com. Fees for supplies: $10/class. Will need to purchase the watercolor workbook by Sarah Simon: Café in Bloom. $20.99 through Amazon Prime.
JAN DAVIS AND FRIENDS ENJOYING WATERCOLOR PAINTING.
