Happy Landings
Happy Landings Last Paper Edition
New Chapter in Community Publishing
Seabreeze Communications and Happy Landings are launching an exciting new chapter. Over the past few months, Seabreeze has been preparing for a transformation, bringing community-focused publications to the next level.
“Today, I’m thrilled to share more details about these changes for Happy Landings and the benefits they will bring you, our valued readers.” Stephen Miller, CEO, Seabreeze Communications Building on a Legacy
For nearly 40 years, Seabreeze Communications has been
Landings Chorus Announcement
On September 1st, Herchel Avra officially retired after 12 exciting years leading the group of 50 plus members. “I love the Landings Chorus and especially all those who are members now and those who have moved on in their life’s journey. It was the hardest thing I have done here at the Landings to retire and step aside as the Landings Chorus Director.”
One member said: “We will all miss him and his amazing leadership and inspiration. He’s definitely one-of-a-kind and together with Carolyn, led us along many exciting musical journeys. His caring nature, dedication, patience and sense of humor was truly appreciated by each member during the years he was our
captain.” Another commented: “It’s been a special journey enjoyed by all The Landings whether it be the singers or the audiences enjoying the wonderful concerts.”
We are excited to announce that the Landings Chorus will live on! Lynn Cisky has now agreed to become interim Director. You all know Lynn as she directs the allfemale Landings singing group called “InHarmony.” Further details later!
dedicated to serving gated communities across Florida with high-quality, community-specific content. “Our mission has always been to connect residents, foster a sense of belonging, and provide a reliable source of local news and information. This legacy is one we are deeply committed to preserving, even as we prepare to introduce significant innovations.”
The Move to Digital
After careful consideration and planning, we’re excited to announce Happy Landings will be transitioning to a digital model, with a projected launch date in November. This shift reflects a mutual commitment with Seabreeze to stay ahead of the curve, ensuring that publications remain as relevant and accessible as possible in an increasingly digital world. Some of you may have already heard about this transition, and we’re pleased to confirm that these plans are moving forward smoothly. We believe this new format will not only enhance your reading experience, but also bring a host of new features and benefits.
Why Digital?
The decision to move to a digital format was driven by a desire to offer readers the best possible experience. Here are some of the key benefits you can look forward to:
• Wider Reach : Each reader will be able to receive their own digital copy, ensuring everyone stays informed.
• Timeliness : With a digital platform, lead times are reduced, allowing delivery of more current and relevant content.
• Interactivity and Engagement : The digital publication will feature clickable links, embedded videos, and other interactive elements, making content more engaging and dynamic.
• Year-Round Access: Whether at home or traveling, you’ll have access to Landings news through a dedicated Happy Landings website.
• Mobile Accessibility : You can read it on your laptop, tablet,
Lynn Cisky
Herchel Avra
Landings
Bridge Club
By Bill Ferris 2024 October Bridge
The first Monday in October (Oct. 7) marks the formal start of the Fall Southwest Florida ACBL Regional Bridge Tournament at the Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa. On the second Monday in October (Oct. 14), LDBC will open its Season in the Garden Room in the Helm Club at 9 a.m.
The Landings Duplicate Bridge Club (LDBC) will open weekly Monday sessions in the Garden Room at the Helm Club at 9 a.m., a new, later time on Mondays by one hour. This time was confirmed by a vote of the Board in May, but the opening date of October 14th was officially determined by a Board vote in late July. The vote followed the announcement of the program for the Southwest Florida ACBL Regional being held at the Marriott Sanibel Harbour beginning the week of Monday, October 7th (District 9ACBL.org).
Directions and Further Information
The Board hopes as many club members as possible will attend the Monday program, beginning at 1 p.m., and take advantage of a free Bridge lesson from a national pro. Although the Marriott is only a few miles down the road from The Landings, you will need to leave by noon to beat the traffic and park. Simply follow McGregor and take the last right before the Sanibel Bridge. Bear right to reach the Marriott.
Players with under 200 master points (mps) can play for free in a special Monday afternoon pairs session starting at 3 p.m. Players with more than 200 mps can play for the usual $15 per session fee in most of the many regular sessions for the rest of the tournament. Those under 500 mps can win Gold points in “Gold Rush” pair events. All players can win Gold points in other regular pairs and team events all week for the normal $15 fee. Additionally, free 30-minute lessons will be available to all members on most tournament days at 9:45 am.
Opening Day Preparations—October 14th
Club members who have helped set up the Garden Room on Mondays will have a new Chair in charge of the process, John Coker. Please join John between 8:15 and 8:30 a.m. so that we will all be ready to start promptly at 9 a.m. on Opening Day, October 14th.
& Green Book Changes: Happy Landings
October Issue, 2024 Clip & save these Up to date through August 31, 2024
Deletions:
• Keith & Tonya Lowrey, 4240 Steamboat Bend #102
• Richard & Mary Mullins, 4765 Harbortown Lane
Additions:
• Diane Klimek, 4240 Steamboat Bend #102, 239-204-9061
• Kaveh & Kristin Sadadi, 4765 Harbortown Lane
- 2/2 Amazing River Views
Clipper Cove - 3/2 Split Layout Vaulted Ceiling
Flagship - 2/2 Corner Condo
Flagship - 2/2 First Floor Walkout
Flagship - 3/2 Split Layout
Harbortown - 2+ Den, 2 Car Garage
Longboat - 3/2.5 Stunning Villa
Mariners Cove - 3/2, Private Lot
Riverside - Renovated 3 + Den, Pool
Riverside - 3/2 Updated Pool Home
Schooner - 3 + Den, 2.5 Townhouse
Schooner - 3/2 Split Layout + Garage
Sunset Cove - 1st Floor, 2/2, Gorgeous
Sunset Cove - 1st Floor, 2/2, Updated
Steamboat Bend - 2/2 Corner, Pool & Lake View
Steamboat Bend East - 2/2 Corner, 1st Floor Golf & Lake View
Windjammer - 2/2 Top Floor, Corner
Windjammer - 2/2, Turnkey, Updated
Windjammer - Single Family 3/2, Gorgeous
Windjammer - 3/2 Split Floorplan, Updated
Windjammer - 3/2 with Garage, Top Floor Corner
Windjammer - 2/2 First Floor, Updated Lakefront
General Manager’s Report
August 27, 2024
David Gillespie
The end of summer is fast approaching. With the change in weather comes a change in the pace of activity in the community.
It appears our hope to reopen the Wheelhouse in early October may come about after all. While the challenges have been numerous, Captain Craig and Vantage Construction have pushed through all the setbacks. Craig and Tim Miller have pushed very hard to keep the project on track, and have done an outstanding job! Kudos to them both!
We remind all members that in the fall, dining reservations for the Wheelhouse and the Compass Rose will be greatly appreciated as well as necessary. We’ve implemented a number of new procedures in both
Financial Report
Summary of July 2024
In the current period, the club performed better than budget for revenue by $54,053 but was over budget in overhead departments by $37,730. The Marina department’s strong performance with higher fuel sales and subcontractor work led to a profit of $42,912 for the month. On the expense side, it seems that the Overhead Departments were collectively over budget.
Financial Summary
• Total Club Revenue: $918,544 (Budget: $864,491; Variance: $54,053)
• Gross Operating Profit: $-32,007 (Budget: $-16,549; Variance: -$15,458)
Departmental Performance
• Food and Beverage Revenue: $82,857 (Budget: $95,381; Variance: -$12,524)
• Golf Revenue: $20,162 (Budget: $15,950; Variance: $4,212)
The Golf Corner
By Zach Cooper & Cathy Steeves Golf Course Rating
Golf courses are required to be rated every ten years or any time a significant change is made to the layout of a given hole. In addition, in 2023 the United States Golf Association (USGA) updated their requirements for minimum yardage necessary for a golf course to be rated and use the GHIN handicap system.
Accordingly, the Landings golf course underwent an updated golf course rating on August 15th, 2024. This involved a team of Florida State Golf Association volunteers evaluating the entire golf course to update the handicap assigned to every hole, as well as getting a “correct” yardage for each hole on the scorecard.
When the golf course was last rated (ten years ago), The Landings course did not meet the necessary yardage to be rated, and thus have access to the GHIN Handicap system. In order to be USGA compliant, and make sure The Landings was able to have access to the GHIN system, an agreement was reached to use fictitious yardages on certain holes in order to meet the minimum yardage requirement. Hole #18, for example, had its yardage calculated from the other side of the road across from the village of Ariel. Holes #4 & #6 were also among the list of holes that had
Happy Landings Last Paper Edition from page 1
or smartphone, giving you the flexibility to stay connected wherever you are.
What to Expect
In addition to the benefits mentioned above, our new digital format will introduce several exciting features:
• Dynamic Reader: You can still flip through the pages of Happy Landings with the interactive reader, which will look and feel like a traditional publication while having clickable links and embeddable video.
• Article Breakout: Each article will have the option to be viewed on its own dedicated page, making it easier for you to read, print, and share specific stories.
• Events Page: Stay current with community happenings through a regularly updated events calendar.
• Resource Page: The comprehensive resource page will
restaurants to produce food quickly and efficiently, but this requires members to make dining reservations to facilitate the orderly flow of coming and going.
Please be respectful of your fellow members, as we try to accommodate everyone trying to dine. Keep in mind, not everyone will be able to dine from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Plan your dining times in advance.
Capital projects are finishing up soon, including some renovations and repairs to some of the tennis courts, the HVAC systems, and the golf course grounds and cart paths. I hope your summers have been enjoyable and safe. Please enjoy the remainder of summer and we look forward to seeing everyone back in the near future.
• Tennis Revenue:
$11,745 (Budget: $16,949; Variance: -$5,204)
• Marina Revenue:
$359,550 (Budget: $293,578; Variance: $65,972)
• Administration & General: Expenses: $61,299 (Budget: $26,443; Variance: $34,856)
• Community Patrol: Expenses: $47,814 (Budget:
$45,146; Variance: $2,668)
• Golf Course Maintenance: Expenses: $103,402 (Budget: $102,261; Variance: $1,141)
• Property Maintenance: Expenses: $81,259 (Budget:
$68,484; Variance: $12,775)
Balance Sheet
• Infrastructure Reserve: $337,673
• Reserves Future Long Range: $65,155
• Operating Cash Balance: $2,223,572
their yardage inflated in order to meet the USGA minimum yardage requirement. Under the USGA’s new yardage minimum for a golf course of 1,500 yards, the actual yardage of each hole on The Landings course can easily meet the requirements and maintain our status as a USGA golf course without any manipulation of the numbers.
The new rating did change some of the difficulty ratings on certain holes, which will be reflected immediately on all league and tournament scorecards, as well as in the GHIN system. Rest assured that Hole #6 still remains the hardest hole for both men and ladies.
help you connect with local providers and businesses more easily.
• Archive of Past Issues: Using the searchable archive, you can revisit past issues and articles anytime you like.
• Submissions: We continue to encourage Landings members to submit stories, photos, and announcements to be featured in Happy Landings issues.
• Looking Ahead
We understand change can be both exciting and challenging. We are confident this transition will bring lasting benefits to our readers and advertisers. As we approach the November launch, we will keep you informed about our progress and any other details you need to know.
Thank you for your continued support. We are eager to embark on this journey with Seabreeze to make Happy Landings an even more valuable asset.
The Happy Landings Editorial Staff
Chess and Checkers Club News
By John Winters
Several months ago, I was doing research on the Sicilian Defense. A very strong player responded to my opening move of “e4” with “c5.” His move of “c5” is called the Sicilian Defense. It is usually played by strong players. (Bobby Fischer frequently played it.) My research indicates there is an
DEADLINE for NOV. 2024
O ctober 4, 12 Noon
The Landings
Administration Office • 482-3211 Fax 482-1796
David Gillespie Interim General Manager
Rosana Jaramillo Executive Administrative Assistant
Kim Cummings Controller Helm Club • 482-3224 Fax 482-2558
Christine Wengler Food & Beverage Director
Grace Stewart Assistant Food & Beverage Director
Michele Lawson Director of Activities and Communication Happy Landings
The Official Community Newspaper
Publisher Seabreeze Communications
Editors Happy Landings
Head Editor: Sheryl Winters sherylwinters@comcast.net
Linda Tucker tuckerllo@comcast.net
Barb June junefamily@sbcglobal.net
Joan Davison Davisonjoana@gmail.com
Kathy Striggow kathleenstriggow@gmail.com
Hazel Jones, hazelwhitejones.hl@gmail.com
Copy Editor: Karen Reitan
Mission Statement
The purpose of the Happy Landings newsletter is to record and celebrate events in the lives of individuals and the life of the community.
Deadline: Articles for the Happy Landings newsletter 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 newsletter published for the benefit of the residents of The Landings Yacht, Golf and Tennis Club Inc., which has hired Seabreeze Communications Group as 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 its officers, directors or 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 LYG&TC have the right to express their concerns to the Board of Administrators, 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 general manager’s office). The completed form will be given to the Board of Administrators, who will decide if the problem/complaint warrants its review or action.
Seabreeze Communications, Inc. does not endorse any advertising as it relates to the communities. Advertising is not screened by Seabreeze Communications, Inc.
excellent gambit to play against it. The gambit consists of losing a pawn but taking control of the center. I played this strong player again. He responded with “c5” to my opening of “e4.” Unfortunately, he didn’t accept my gambit offer. This got me thinking: the best response to a gambit generally is not to accept it. I think strong players usually will recognize an offered gambit and refuse it. Still, it’s good to learn standard gambit openings and give them a try.
Recently I read many excellent chess players reside in prisons. This also got me thinking. How about our chess club traveling to a nearby prison and playing against prisoners? We would have to clear it with the warden in advance. Does anyone have special knowledge about procedures necessary to do this? Four of us could ride together, play chess for a couple of hours, and then return home. All in one day!
During the current campaign for the presidency, our thoughts turn to past Presidents. Did any of them play chess? Here is a list of chess players who also occupied the
oval office: John Adams, John Quincy Adams (he learned the game from his father), Thomas Jefferson (he played against Benjamin Franklin who was a strong player), James Madison (he played a four-hour game with Thomas Jefferson), James Monroe, Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant, Rutherford Hayes (his mother taught him the game), James Garfield, Grover Cleveland, Theodore Roosevelt (he played chess on hunting trips), William Howard Taft (played the game when he was a child), Warren Harding, Jimmy Carter (he also was a nuclear physicist), Bill Clinton (member of the chess club at Georgetown University), and Barack Obama (he mentions this in his autobiography). Who was the strongest chess player in this list of past Presidents?
It seems to me Jefferson was the strongest player. What do you think? He was serious about the game and had several chess books in his library. Does anyone know if the two candidates now campaigning to live in the White House play chess?
Don’t forget to protect your king (and your queen)!
Fort Myers Women’s Connection
By Mary Ann Spry November Luncheon
Meeting
The Fort Myers Women’s Connection will hold its November luncheon meeting on Thursday, Nov. 7th from 12 noon to 2:00 p.m. in the Main Deck at the Helm Club. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. The cost is $35 inclusive and includes a delicious lunch, beverage, and chef’s specialty dessert.
The luncheon features Fiore’s Landscapes: Landscape Design, Garden Center, Florals, and Café. The speaker,
Sarah Schwerin, will present, “My life hasn’t always been sweet, but I finally found something sweeter than chocolate.”
All reservations must be prepaid and received by October 31st. Reservations are guaranteed when payment is received. No cancellations are accepted after that date. Checks in the amount of $35, payable to FMWC, should be sent to Barbara Shields, 9500 Mariner’s Cove Lane, Ft. Myers, FL 33919.
LOOKING AHEAD: December 5th Luncheon— Phillis DeWitt and Fundraiser Day! All are welcome to join us for the Prayer Connection. Info to follow!
For more information, call Marrikka Stockman at 239-218-5992, or contact her by email at marrikka. stockman@gmail.com . Sponsored by Stonecroft Ministries
Manager Lee Nostrant
Production Department
Elaine Donholt • Ruth Nekoranec • Katie Heystek
Dianne Strout • Karen Kalisz • Michelle Feeney www.seabreezecommunications.com
Nine-Hole Ladies: Getting Back Into The “Swing” Of Things
By Michele Cavanagh
After a very wet summer, we are getting ready to begin our new season at the beginning of October. Your 9-Hole Board has its usual selection of fun games and a few new ones this year.
Here is your 9-Hole Board for the upcoming season:
President - Ginny Minarchi
Past President - Ruth Hockert
Vice-President - Julie Iverson
Treasurer - Cindy Brown
Handicap Chairperson - Janis Robertson
Secretary- Cookie Smith
Membership - Pat Tylander
Communications - Susan Cope
Happy Landings Reporter - Michele Cavanagh
Inside Tournament Chair - Carol Story
Outside Tournament Chair - Jan Roberts
KISS Chair - Mary Rae
Pace of play is an important factor in the game of golf. The benefits of Pace of Play are TIME saved and people of all abilities tend to golf better when they can get into a rhythm.
Here are a few tips to help with the Pace of Play: Before the Round Begins
- Arrive 15 minutes before your Tee Time.
- Check-in with the Pro Shop and then with the Starter
- Being on time keeps the course moving On the Tee
- Be ready to tee off, play “Ready Golf”
- Watch your ball’s flight and landing – watch your partner’s ball too
- Stand to the side and out of the peripheral vision of the player teeing off Pace of Play
- Plan your shot as you approach your ball
- Start thinking about which club to use
- Keep your pro-shot routine short
- Keep Up with the Group in Front of you
The pace of play is not determined by who is behind you, but the foursome in front of you.
Tennis Corner
By Joan Davison
What a summer! The weather has been all over the place. Normally throughout the summer we get sunny, hot, humid mornings which makes it seem like we’re playing tennis in a sauna. But this summer, there have been a lot of mornings where the courts have been washed out due to morning storms. Thank you, Tennis Program staff, for taking such great care of the courts. I know it’s been a huge challenge.
Speaking of staff, I’d like to highlight the amazing people we have working in the Landings tennis program. First up is Tyler Cooper, Assistant Tennis Professional.
Tyler was born in Miami, Florida, but spent his childhood in Nassau, Bahamas. He was introduced to tennis when he was seven and knew it was the sport for him!
Tyler took lessons at The National Tennis Center in Nassau, then attended the Everett Tennis Summer Tennis Camp in Boca Raton, Florida. Both in high school and university, he played on the school tennis teams. After graduating from FGCU with a Communications degree, he decided he wanted to pursue tennis as a career. He obtained his certification to teach tennis, and The Landings is lucky to be where he teaches. On a personal note, Tyler taught me to play tennis. Not only did he teach me to play tennis, but he also taught me to love the game.
Sylvia Linton, Tennis Shop Assistant since October 2023, was born and raised in Warren, Michigan. Before she became a valued member of The Landings Tennis staff, Sylvia obtained a B.A. (with Honors) from Wayne State University, then a Juris Doctor Degree from U of Toledo College of Law. Her career in Law included being Staff Attorney to Bay County Circuit Judge Lawrence M. Bielawski; then sole appellate attorney for the Bay County Prosecutor’s Office. For many years Sylvia competed in triathlons and Ironman competitions. She no longer competes but still does 20–50-mile bicycle rides on her days off. We need to get Sylvia on the tennis courts!
In the coming months I’ll be featuring more of our wonderful tennis program staff.
Once again, from October 5 to 6, the Landings will host an event for Ladies Doubles with LCWTL ratings from 2.5 to 3.0 minus. The Les Petites Tournament will give women a great chance for a fun and competitive weekend of tennis. Landings Tennis community: please come out to watch and cheer on these women!
Your 2024-2025 Board from left to right: Jan Roberts, Pat Tylander, Cindy Brown, Susan Cope, Ruth Hockert, Ginni Minarchi, Julie Iverson, Michele Cavanagh, Carol Story, Janis Robertson, Cookie Smith, absent was Mary Rae
Assistant Tennis Pro Tyler Cooper
Sylvia Linton, Tennis Shop Assistant
LLGA-18 Ladies Golf Happenings!
By Mary Ann Spry
Welcome
Back, Ladies!
It is time for some great golf and renewing friendships after a great summer and fall where journeys were made and stories to tell!
The first official league day is October 2nd, so we hope you are eager to make those birdies and pars again.
Our “Welcome Back” with the Nine Hole League will be on October 23rd this year. It is always a great time with special luncheon to follow. Sounds like they added a “Mixed Gender” event for November 6th. Another great lunch will be served in the Main Deck for the “Hungry” golfers. So, gals, get your partner for this event.
The schedule of events has been sent to all members, so if you have not received a copy, they are available from our President, Lynne Denk.
Many clubs in which I have been involved have a “Ringer Tournament”; however, LLGA-18 has started a Ringer Chart last season, where you mark down your best scores each week and at the end of the year, you can see how you bettered your score on each hole. Wouldn’t it be fun if by the end of the year you had a birdie or better on every hole? Kind of fun to think about, and quite a goal!
Dotty Fritzie and Diane Giebner did really well in our league championship play here in Colorado last week. It is always fun to see them, and fun to see their names in the win column. Congratulations for some great playing!
The league doesn’t happen without many volunteers, so thank you to all hostesses and gals who have stepped up to the plate to plan and host the many luncheon events that occur in season. Thanks to the officers, who meet every month to make sure the league business is handled as well. Here’s to another fun year of golf!
I imagine you watched a little of the PGA tournament held in Castle Rock, CO, and East Lake where some amazing golf was played!
The flowers on the course at Castle Rock were spectacular. Scottie Scheffler was unbelievable and we have to admire his focus and dedication to professional golf and family.
See you all on the course and especially Wednesday mornings, bright and early!
Lee County Girls HS Tennis Tournament Grants Boost Local Schools’ Tennis Programs
The Landings community’s generosity continues to make significant impacts on Lee County public schools’ tennis programs. Thanks to the grants provided through the tournament, hosted & supported by Landings, grant recipients have been able to enhance their programs in unique ways, ensuring students have access to better facilities and equipment.
Funds granted have been utilized to purchase a Lobster tennis ball machine at Dunbar HS. This is a state-of-the-art tool that allows players to practice with precision. Without dedicated coaches, these machines help to improve the students’ skills by providing consistent practice opportunities and advanced drills that would otherwise be difficult to replicate without a dedicated coach. Others have used their grant to cover deficits in their budgets or to buy rackets, backup gear, uniforms for new players, game balls, and cover other miscellaneous expenses.
The Lee County Girls High School tournament, supported by The Landings community, is making a difference in the lives of local students and fostering both athletic and personal growth among the young
athletes. The leadership team thanks the Landings tennis administration, our volunteers, sponsors and supporters and look forward to a fantastic tournament in 2025!
Village News
Ariel, Clipper Cove, Flagship, Harbortown, Lighthouse, Longboat, Mariner’s Cove, Riverside, Schooner, Steamboat Bend, Steamboat Bend East, Sunset Cove, Sunset Harbor, Trawler, Windjammer
Schooner
Those of us who have been around Schooner for a while, especially our many dog lovers, will be sad to learn that we have lost one of our favorites – Gizmo Schornstein.
Gizmo had a big heart in that little body. Sadly, it just gave out and now Panda will have to make his own way. The Schornsteins could use warm thoughts from Schooner friends. They had a tough summer in Minnesota with Sharon’s back surgery. She
Ric & Mary Wilson-Tauson rooesq@juno.com
is still essentially confined to a wheelchair. She needs some good Landings life to get her going. We look forward to Sharon and Jim’s return.
Fred Ockerlund, the man with at least eighteen lives, celebrated his 96th birthday on August 30th, just two years behind Shirley Rasmussen, with Larry and Jackie Wagner, Donna Riggs, the Tausons, and, of course, Fred’s spectacular supervisors, Jonnie, and Sara. Jonnie made her renowned
Swedish pancakes for all to enjoy. Jonnie and Fred’s son, Bill, recently won the feature race in the vintage trans am series at Laguna Seca in Monterey County, California. He was in his 1962 Mustang originally driven by Parnelli Jones. Fred will soon be catching up to him in his motorized chair!
The Birthday Boy with Jackie, Jonnie, Sara, and Donna
In northern Michigan, Hank and Deb Lawrie were invited by Jim and Cathy Webb (Riverside) to spend the night at Webbs’ beautiful Torch Lake cottage along with Jim and Gail Beck (longtime Landings renters) and Mark and Carol Foucher (Sunset Harbor). It was a great summertime reunion for three Volley Girl teammates and their spouses.
Congratulations to Lisa Cates on her recent hole-inone on number 7, and thank you, Sherrie Lorenz, for your informative article on Cane Toads in last month’s Happy Landings
We are looking forward to the upcoming return of our neighbors and learning more about their summer adventures and misadventures!
PeJay Creations “One of a kind” Collection
Erica Courtney John Hardy
Jye Creations
For more than 40 years, Congress Jewelers has been celebrating life’s special moments while creating memories that last a lifetime.
Steamboat Bend East
“The end of summer is not the end of the world. Here’s to October…” ~A.A. Milne
Maries’ Lucky Pink Callaway
Carol Cummins callifleur1955@gmail.com
Tuesday, July 30th turned out to be a very special day indeed for Marie Grayson/ DiRosa. She had her first hole-inone on hole number one. I hope to soon see a brick on the tenth tee to honor this feat of great skill! Marie said she’s looking for more in the future!
Gizmo
In mid-August, four couples from The Landings flew to Hawaii, and then took a Norwegian Cruise to three of the Islands. Fred Muhleman was invited to take the controls of the plane briefly while taking a flying excursion over
Fred Muhleman flying over Kauai, Hawaii; Group Photo Left to right: Casey and Diane Homick, Bryan and Karen Blumenstahl and Beth and Fred Muhleman
Kauai. My “dream come true” was on Maui, taking a hike through tropical forests, crossing streams and walking through 3-foot-deep water filled tunnels, followed by a swim in a secluded tropical pool with a waterfall.
Windjammer
Windjammer – Our Oasis!
looking for volunteers who could play some
accordion or otherwise!
Best wishes for a festive start to the new season!
Carol Cummins and Greg Podczaski covered by a rainbow, enjoying music and Happy Hour cocktails with fellow travelers
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.
(Sorry the September article didn’t get included. I found out my new computer lacked the connection to forward it properly. )
Trawler
Trawler Village News
Rain, Rain, Rain –
This has been an unusually wet season with over 60 inches of rain falling through July (August count not available).
We have experienced 13 separate leaks or incidences of water intrusion into units. Most of the causes have been identified and are currently in various stages of remediation. Downspout extensions have been added to almost all downspouts and Neil and the contractor continue to monitor them. Underground drains continue to be an issue and we will be addressing this when members of the Building/Planning Committee return. In the meantime, make sure your units are being checked and report any problems to Alliant or Chery. Lightning Strike –
The 4586 building was hit by lightning on August 28th. The damage was minimal although pieces of stucco ended up flying into the pool. The pool company has cleaned the pool. Upon further investigation it was noted that some of the lightning rods on the building were not adequately secured and were ineffective. Luckily no electronic damage to owners’ equipment or fire resulted. We are arranging for an electrician to come out and get the equipment working properly.
Barbara Hartman’s Japan Trip
Barbara Hartman and her family spent 2 weeks in Japan this summer. They arrived in Tokyo for the first week, and visited Mt. Fuji, took a cruise on Lake Ashi, visited Hakone and went to many shrines and temples.
Her 14-year-old twin grandchildren were fascinated by the Japanese culture! Their cousins had been there last summer, so they were excited, especially going on a Pop Culture tour!
They all took the Shinkansen Bullet Train to Kyoto for the next week, where everyone enjoyed a Tea Ceremony with the kids dressing up in Japanese tradition. They got to experience the beauty of the countryside, the food, the Kiyomizu Dera Temple, and Arashyama Fushimi
This article is dedicated to our wonderful landscaping chair Hillary Combs. Spring is sprung and we are now slowly through the rainy season...our village is definitely green and lush! Of course, Hillary has taken on a huge responsibility… not only is Windjammer the largest village in The Landings, we are blessed with a plethora of features and amenities. With a limited budget, it takes a lot of creativity to keep our “curb appeal” flourishing. Hillary stepped up to the task and was able to repurpose several Spanker planters. They were purged of dead plants and beautified with new flowers – what a sight they are!
Just imagine what an enormous task it is to care for our 26 acres with 800 trees (not counting smaller palms!), 16 buildings and five small and large lakes. On any given day you may see Hillary walking the property with a gaggle of landscaping pros, nourishing new plants and identifying and logging ongoing projects. Please stop and give her a big thanks for taking on this huge job!
Oktoberfest in Windjammer!
We’re starting off the season with our Sunday Funday Oktoberfest, the 3rd Sunday in October, 4-6 p.m. Bratwurst will be furnished by the association, guests are to bring $2 cover charge, and Oktoberfest dishes: potato salad, pretzels, cabbage rolls, red cabbage, noodles and cabbage, German chocolate cake, etc.
We’ll need four volunteers, besides Julie, Betty, Tom and us, for setup and grilling brats. I’m still
Imari. Although the kids had been to Europe again earlier this summer, this was their first trip to Asia! Barbara was so glad to enjoy the fun with her family.
Ariel
Ariel offers stunning vistas
The views from different lanais contained in the 18-story Ariel building are always changing and interesting. Owners can watch storms approach, see fireworks all the way downtown and enjoy the luxurious landscaping that abounds in the Ariel community.
Seeing a rainbow is always a treat. Steve Hooper, vice president of the Ariel Board of Administrators, captured this image.
Villages on page 9
Al & Patti Palumbo thealster6@gmail.com
Sharyl Leifeld & Stacey Gossmann staceygossmann@comcast.net
Spanker Planter
Windjammer Pool Deck
oompah music,
Eva Bell
Eva Bell
A beautiful double rainbow
Hazel Jones hazelwhitejones@ gmail.com
Many of the residents in the 135 units at Ariel take photographs of things they see from their units. Gwen Morrison, a founding member of Ariel’s book club, is a talented photographer too.
Sunsets are glorious
Clipper Cove
Wedding Lynn Blaine’s nephew, Jim Thompson, married his longtime
Maisie Seiverling maisieseiverling@yahoo.com
girlfriend, Aimee Zuchetti. The couple will live in Fort Myers. Jim’s window and doors company, ranked number one in Florida, will have a new office in Fort Myers.
The Sprys continued to Minocqua, Wisconsin, Mary Ann’s birthplace, where she had a terrific childhood and where she first met Bob sixty years ago when he was a camp counselor at Minocqua Boys Canoe Camp. Bob was waiting to learn when he had to report to Pensacola for flight training in the Navy. They had a great trip this year. Tyler Bumsted and Holly Morris Bumstead went on a ten-day trip to Scotland and Ireland. Trip highlights included Edinburgh Castle, the British Open Golf Course at St. Andrews Golf Course, a pint of Guinness at Dublin’s Temple Bar, the Cliffs of Moher and an evening of Irish music and dancing in Killarney.
Passing of Note
A well-loved longtime resident of the fourth floor in 4821 has passed. Waite Alexander (11/27/268/3/24) will be missed. Formerly Waite was an airline pilot and competitive sailor. At The Landings, he enjoyed tennis and golf and was a pool party regular.
Longboat
I was amazed that the month of October is filled with national and global holidays and celebrations. In addition to the spooky revelry of Halloween, October’s schedule includes multiple national days, weekly observances, and monthly occasions. In total there can be up to six (6) occasions on any given day. Example: International Day of Non-Violence, National Golf Lovers Day, and Halloween, just to name a few.
None of these shared holidays are Federal or State Holidays, unless you live in Nevada, where they have a State Holiday called Nevada Day. It is held every year on the last Friday of the month of October.
The most recognized day is Breast Cancer Awareness Day on October 13. Breast Cancer Awareness month is an annual international health campaign started in October of 1985. It was accomplished with the help of former First Lady and breast cancer survivor, Betty Ford. The pink ribbon, started in 1992, was introduced as part of the campaign. The origins of the pink ribbon date back even further than Breast Cancer Awareness Month itself.
October the 13th is famous for another reason. It is famous for its tie to triskaidekaphobia, or fear of Friday the 13th. Part of this phobia is from 14th century history. On Friday the 13th of October 1307, the Knights Templar in France were arrested by King Phillip the Fair and accused of heresy. Of course, the Templars were not guilty and were cleared of all charges by a later discovered Papal Bull. You see, King Phillip did not have money and was trying to force the Templars to open their pockets to him.
The first ribbon inspiration occurred in 1979 when the wife of a hostage who had been taken tied yellow ribbons around the trees in her front yard. Do you remember that song? She did this as a symbol of her desire to see her husband return home safely. The tradition is still practiced by many military families when their loved ones have not returned home safely or are missing.
Photo by Hazel Jones
The storm approaches
Torrential rain hides the bridge leading to Cape Coral.
One of Ariel’s newest residents, Gary Ramadon, was fascinated by the downpour that obscured the Cape Coral Parkway bridge.
Travels
Bob and Mary Ann Spry had a great weekend in Minnesota visiting their nephew and family.
The Sprys and Family at the Mall of America
Newlyweds Jim and Aimee
Grandchildren Aging Maisie and David Seiverling’s young grandsons Rex DiBello and Jasper Harvey each turned five. The Semarads’ youngest grandson, Arlo, turned one.
Waite Alexander
Arlo Semerad
Ann Power annpower103@gmail.com
Mariner’s Cove
Mariner’s Cove villagers recently did some traveling and some celebrating of life
Pam Gagen went to visit their daughter and family in Hendersonville, TN, for a long weekend. They visited a winery and went to Top Golf. Geoff was on a rafting trip on the lower Salmon River with an old colleague and a few other folks. Pam could have gone but prefers a bathroom and her own bed.
Pat Benner patharben@aol.com
Mariner’s Cove celebrating Tom Marshall’s life
Tom Marshall was remembered for his golfing expertise at a celebration attended by 20 neighbors who surrounded his brick at the 10th hole and toasted to him with a shot of Limoncello. January 7, 2017, was the last of his 26 holesin-one.
Carolyn Armstrong experienced her first missionary trip which was to Kambirwa in rural Kenya. She went with her sister and a group from her
Brick honoring Tom’s last holein-one on Hole #10
North Carolina
church. They volunteered at the Dylan Jones Academy, a Christian school serving both kids and adults through pastoral servings from the Bible, regular medical attention, and nutritious meals from the school kitchen every day. The school was established to provide holistic transformation of the community by enhancing the spiritual, academic, and psychological well-being of the community.
It took the group 2½ days to reach their destination and they spent five days doing triage with a medical Dr., an eye Dr., a dentist, checking blood pressure and interacting with the people through music, prayer, playing with the kids in school and with a bubble machine. They also gave out 2,500 food bags and saw 200 people per day.
Carolyn said the impact on her was amazing, exhausting, fulfilling and she felt blessed to be there. Her trip ended with a two-night Safari in Kenya and Tanzania.
We’re so proud of Carolyn for giving her time and love to these people!
Riverside
Riverside residents lost two more of their neighbors in the past several months. Mary Madeline Riding, age 97, passed away on Monday, July 15th in Fort Myers. Former Riversider, Kurt Verner Nordqvist, passed away peacefully at his home in Hubbards, Nova Scotia, Canada on August 22nd at the age of 78.
Madeline Riding – A longtime Riverside resident, Madeline celebrated her 97th birthday in February of this year. As close friends with neighbors, Dotty and Alan Fritze, Dotty provided this tribute to Madeline.
“I wish all of you had known Madeline Riding! She and Bob were the original owners of 12827 Yacht Club Circle, built in 1995. Bob passed away several years ago. Madeline has been a wonderful neighbor with a delightful sense of humor and a sharp, witty personality. She is missed. We will always remember Madeline on her birthday, February 14th! Bless you Madeline!”
Kurt Nordqvist – News of Kurt’s sudden passing reminded his Riverside friends of their kind, loveable
neighbor with a contagious laugh who brought joy, laughter, and optimism to their lives. Although Kurt and his wife, Sharon (Murphy), left Riverside and returned to their Nova Scotia home in the recent past, they are still remembered fondly. Kurt and his wife, Sharon, were members of the Landings Chorus.
Kurt was born in Alingsås, Sweden, on January 21, 1946. He had a twin sister, Birgitta, and brother, Åke . Known as a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, he placed the well-being of his family above all else. His strong work ethic and spirit stemmed from the loss of his father at the age of thirteen. At that young age, he assumed the responsibility of supporting his family.
Entrepreneurship was the cornerstone of Kurt’s lifelong career in a variety of business ventures. Early in his career he founded a successful toy store in Sweden. Upon his move to Canada, he pursued a variety of businesses in the real estate sector. He was also a founding member and past president of Investment Property Owners Association of Nova Scotia (IPOANS), and a member of Junior Chamber International.
Kurt was an avid tennis player which, much to his delight, he was able to pursue year-round, wintering in Florida for many years. He loved the sea and enjoyed taking his little boat around the Nova Scotia coast after a hard day of planting his annual spring vegetable garden. Whether he was singing, playing piano, or renovating — Kurt was a man of many talents.
Kurt is survived by his wife of 42 years, Sharon (Murphy), children Martina (Mattias), Linda (Joakim), Dan (Sara), and Colin (Jocelyn), twelve grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and was looking forward to welcoming his fourth great-grandchild in October.
Funeral services were held at St. Luke’s Church in Hubbards on Saturday, August 31st. Donations in Kurt’s memory may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. We extend our thoughts, prayers, and deepest condolences to both Madeline’s and Kurt’s families. In happier news, it is about that time of year again! Watch your email for a notice from Marilee Simon listing the social calendar dates for the 2024-25 season. It won’t be long before the Riverside Welcome Back gathering! Where did the summer go?
sister’s
Carolyn Armstrong with two of the people from Dylan Jones Academy
Madeline Riding with Alan Fritze, Celebrating her Valentine’s Day Birthday
Kurt Nordqvist and his wife, Sharon (Murphy)
603-345-0119
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