Verandah

Verandah View

Letter From The Board President

Ian Shaffer is serving his third year as the President of the Verandah Community Association Board. In the second VCA Annual Meeting since turnover, President Shaffer reflected on the accomplishments, as well as looking to the future.

This year has seen some significant progress in key areas of our community. I’d like to share a few of those successes and will also share areas where we continue to be challenged.

First what we have achieved:

• We have a solid understanding of expenses. When turnover occurred, we had little data for specifics of spending.

• We have a much clearer understanding of what we own and what property is owned by others. We also understand what the VCA is responsible for managing and caring for.

• A detailed reserve study has been conducted so we now have a better understanding of what we require in reserves to manage these expenses in years to come.

• We have a new Comcast contract that started in June. The contract has already resulted in cost savings for those residents who were paying for certain upgrades under the previous contract. To improve quality and ongoing service Comcast will be replacing our copper cable with fiber-optic cable to every home. More details will be provided in months to come.

• We have made great strides in getting unlicensed slow-

speed golf carts off our streets. They are prohibited by our use restrictions and present a safety issue as drivers try to go around them. We now have over 100 low-speed state-licensed and VCA-registered carts in Verandah.

• While we have much work yet to do on getting more clarity in our design review guidelines, some solid improvements have occurred. We have developed an expanded exterior color palette that should satisfy everyone’s tastes. We have published an updated and expanded plant list and more specifics on the acceptable replacements of hardwood trees.

• We have developed contracts with companies to support our gate management. This means full staffing at the main gate and coming soon 24-hour virtual gate service for residents and their guests at the Tropic gate.

• Our website – www.VCALife.com – provides a wealth of information about our community and its management. I encourage everyone to regularly stop by the site and see what is new.

• The Verandah View newsletter is now being managed by our Communications Committee and distributed digitally to all residents who are on the VCA email list. (If you receive News You Can Use, you should also be receiving the Verandah View.) Now, what do we need to focus on in 2024?

• During this year we will be working with Kolter on a developer settlement. Developer settlement is much like a punch list when you buy a home. We have a newly established committee that will be focusing on those details.

• The Traffic and Safety Committee will be working to further our efforts to understand speeding in our community and develop a plan to manage it.

Bright Lights And Holiday Cheer

Holiday festivities abound at Verandah in December. Street monuments will be sporting decorative holiday decor along with the colorful lights welcoming residents and visitors at the entrance gates, around the clubhouse and on our homes. Be sure to take a ride around the neighborhoods to enjoy the seasonal artistry.

The Club and the VCA offer a full schedule of holiday activities beginning with Verandah’s Annual Holiday Festival, complete with the Christmas tree lighting ceremony, a visit from Santa Claus, complimentary refreshments and a cash bar, on Dec. 4 from 5 to 7 p.m. To cap this special event the Swing Singers will be leading a holiday singalong at the tree lighting. The origin of Christmas lights dates back to a German tradition of hanging candles on evergreen trees and an English tradition of putting candles in windows. Both traditions celebrated the arrival of the Christmas season. Flash forward a few years when Thomas Edison, who wintered right here along the Caloosahatchee River in Fort Myers, introduced the

first outdoor electric Christmas light display to the world, and the rest is history!

The origin of lights used during Hanukkah goes deeper. Verandah celebrates Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, with the Menorah lighting. The Festival of Lights is a festival of rededication, meant to honor the victory of the Maccabees, led by Judah, who reclaimed the Holy Temple in Jerusalem from the Syrian Greek army and rededicated it to their God. They had only enough oil to ignite the temple light for one night, and yet the light burned for eight days. Hannukah this year runs from sundown Thursday, Dec. 7 to sundown on Friday, Dec. 15. Everyone is invited for the lighting at 5:30 p.m. each of the eight nights. On the first night the Jewish community will be offering donuts and apple cider to all in attendance. The Menorah will be located outside the pool, near the Christmas tree.

• On Nov. 2 the state held a hearing on its plan to manage the left turn from eastbound 80 to northbound 31. There are several versions of what that plan might look like, so we will be monitoring and attending public meetings to be aware of what impacts, if any, there are to us.

• We will continue to refine our understanding of our reserve account and ensure that it is properly funded for future needs.

• And we will monitor the installation of the new fiber optics in Verandah.

Let me once again offer my thanks to Lorie St. Lawrence, Susan Shields, Luba Grossman, and Gary Dittman (outgoing board members) for their service to the VCA. All of these individuals not only provided countless hours and efforts as members of the board, but for over a year prior to that they all served on the turnover committees that led to the successful turnover of the association from Kolter to the resident members of the association. I applaud their work and thank them for their continued commitment to provide support to the VCA in the coming year.

I truly believe that overall this has been a successful year for Verandah. Many communities ran into huge financial or other problems in the early post-turnover year. Lynne and her staff along with your dedicated board members have been doing a tremendous amount of work throughout the year to set a ground floor that will be the support we need as we go forward.

We are Verandah Strong. Thank you.

Sincerely, Ian A. Shaffer, President, Verandah Community Association

Giving to charities is never in the background of our residents’ minds at Verandah. The Sugar Plums are working diligently to fulfill the wish lists of deserving families with toys, backpacks, and bags of food to be delivered by residents on Dec. 23.

On Dec. 17 there is a holiday party and brunch with Santa Claus and, if you don’t want to cook another turkey, order a luscious Christmas dinner for takeout prepared by the Club.

If it’s last-minute holiday shopping, plan to attend the Verandah Women’s Social Club Sip, Shop & Socialize on Dec. 5.

Tickets can still be purchased online at sewandsews.org for their Holiday Tour of Homes on Dec. 3. The annual event always proves to be a great way to kick off the holiday season and visit five festively decorated homes. The fundraiser raises money for the Sews & Sews so they can continue to do the wonderful charity work they do all through the year.

Also, at the tree lighting on Dec. 4, residents have the opportunity to show their generosity by filling a Toys for Tots truck to overflowing with toys helping many children have a brighter holiday. It’s not too late to purchase and bring an unopened toy to the event!

At this time of year, residents contribute generously to the employee fund for our hardworking, courteous and friendly staff. Verandah residents love the holidays, and there is some event for all of us to enjoy and be thankful that we live in a Florida paradise.

Have a jolly holiday season. Be safe and have a happy and healthy new year!

A Letter From The VCA General Manager

By Lynne Pietrzyk

Our maintenance staff and vendors were very busy in November refreshing annuals and performing maintenance in Verandah. We have ordered the trees that will replace ones lost in the hurricane and look forward to seeing those planted soon!

Holiday Reminders

• Exterior holiday decorations can be displayed up to six weeks before the holiday and must be removed 30 days after.

Verandah Community University Introduces

The Second Act

Starring Norm Toback

• When decorating the monuments, please use a step ladder rather than the ledge of the monument. They are not designed to bear weight. Do not hang decorations on tree trunks using nails. It can damage the trees. And remember to wrap power cords where they connect to prevent power surges that can damage the outlets.

• The VCA office will be closed at noon on Friday, Dec. 22 and reopen on Wednesday, Dec. 27.

Gatehouse News

• Use the gatehouse portal to register your guests and vendors. This will make their access quicker and easier.

• In the coming weeks, you will see emails about some changes for gate access as we transition to the new Envera gate system. New gate access stickers will be issued to residents beginning in December. Existing

scan passes will be operational until the end of March. Please be on the lookout and read emails relating to gate access and what you need to do. It will help make the transition much easier!

As always, the office staff is available to answer questions. The best way to contact us is at office@vcalife.com. The entire office staff monitors this email and it’s the quickest way to get your questions answered.

On behalf of the entire office staff, we wish the residents of Verandah Community Association a safe and happy holiday season!

Community University

agents. Everyone in the large group in attendance received the list of recommendations along with a delicious late breakfast prepared by the Club. You can follow Jean on her blog, Maurice on Books. Of course, as in all VCU events, those who participate receive a diploma with a listing of the next scheduled events.

After a 40-year career in senior leadership in higher education in New York City and his subsequent migration to Southwest Florida and Verandah, Norm was ready for his NEXT ACT. You may have seen him walking his dog, animatedly talking to himself … when he’s actually running lines from his next play. Norm has appeared in comedies, dramas, and musicals. Some of them may be your favorites such as The Sound of Music, It’s a Wonderful Life, and Calendar Girls

Join Verandah Community University and Verandah Club on Monday, Dec. 18 from 4 to 6 p.m. as local actor and Verandah resident Norm Toback takes center stage with The Second Act as he tells us about his life in the theater. Enjoy Norm as he performs scenes from plays and regales us with stories of his appearances in different plays, his interesting roles and life behind the curtains!

Dec. 18, Monday, from 4 to 6 p.m.

The Verandah Community University’s (VCU) inaugural event on Sept. 16 was a great success. Verandah Club member and Major League Baseball pitcher Bert Blyleven’s heartfelt account about his family and his stellar 22-year career in baseball was well done and hilarious. The 150-plus attendees, most wearing their favorite team’s shirts, laughed and asked him many great questions. When the presentation concluded, the audience applauded and gave him a standing ovation! Everyone there received a diploma with a schedule for the VCU’s events for the year. Attendee and fan, Denny Shields, was so impressed with the first “University Class” that he congratulated the VCU on its great work and gave kudos to the Program Committee.

The second VCU event on Nov. 13 featured Jean Lewis, book reviewer and former book buyer for Barnes and Noble. Lewis gave her expert and well researched 20-plus bestseller recommendations for 2024. Jean receives prepublications from publishers for honest reviews and has close contacts with authors and literary

Plan on attending VCU’s Dec. 18 event with resident actor and Naples Player Norm Toback, when he presents The Second Act and regales us with stories from behind the curtain and his various performances. The event will be held in the fitness center activity room from 4 to 6 p.m. The audience will have a great time at Norm’s program, so come early for a front row seat. Break a leg, Norm!

Stacey Deffenbaugh Meyer is VCU’s Jan. 22, 2024 presenter. Working in broadcasting since 2002 in North Dakota, Ohio, and here in Fort Myers where she is the new morning anchor on NBC2, she has garnered numerous awards for her outstanding reporting. Hear her story of balancing work in broadcasting and being an entrepreneur.

Verandah Volunteer Opportunities Fair

Monday, Jan. 8, 2024 From 12 To 3 p.m., Oak Park

Give Yourself A Gift By Giving To Others!

Are you looking for a way to give back to Verandah or the community nearby? There are many local nonprofits who would love to have you volunteer your time to help their cause.

If you love animals, working with or for kids, providing food for local families, or helping with business skills, we have volunteer opportunities for you!

You don’t have to track down and contact nonprofits online to find out their mission and if they need volunteers. We bring the nonprofits to you!

On Monday, Jan. 8 from noon until 3 p.m., over 20 local nonprofits will have tables set up in Oak Park (near the playground) with representatives who will be happy

to tell you about their organization. Ask questions and meet other Verandah residents already volunteering.

Here’s Verandah resident, Kelly Rose, telling about her volunteer experience last year:

“At the fair, I approached the volunteer coordinator from nearby Orange River Elementary School. She was totally flexible with my schedule. It is a welcoming place, where students seem happy and eager to learn. The experience for me was a win-win.”

Come and see if there’s a “win-win” volunteer experience waiting for you! Great opportunities for men and women!

Sew & Sews’ ‘Kick Off The New Year’ Luncheon

Friday, Jan. 12, 2024, Noon In The River House

The Sew & Sews will be holding our Annual “Kick Off the New Year” Luncheon! Along with a delicious meal, we’ll have a quick wrap-up of 2023 and talk about our goals for 2024. If you would like to learn more about the Sew & Sews, you are welcome to attend. We’re a friendly group of women creating handmade items for donation to people in need.

Don’t be fooled by our name! We actually have four distinct groups with members selecting the group they prefer. Want to try something new? Feel free to help in any way you’d like. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

1. Our sewing group has skill levels from beginner to expert. We make fun projects for kids and adults. The pillows we make for the Regional Cancer Center use straight-line sewing. We will even teach you to make your own pillow in one class, if you’d like a refresher from seventh-grade sewing.

2. The quilting group is serious about making beautiful quilts to be donated to kids who have so little. This is something to be cherished forever. Most of our quilts are donated to the Children’s Network of Southwest Florida for kids in the foster care system.

3. The yarn arts group is made up of crocheters and knitters. They specialize in making baby items for the NICU at Golisano Children’s Hospital and our new nonprofit, Tiny Showers, which provides items for babies born into poverty. Need brushing up on your skills? Lessons are available.

4. Our knotters’ group cuts and ties fleece strips on the edges into toasty blankets. These lightweight blankets are like a “warm hug.” Blankets are donated to Verandah Cares and given to our residents with health issues. They are also donated to the Sugar Plums for mothers of the children receiving clothing and toys at Christmas. Fleece blankets for kids are donated to Valerie’s House, a nonprofit helping children deal with the loss of a family member.

We also have a group of Handy Helpers, who are happy to do whatever is necessary. They help out by ironing, stuffing pillows, threading elastic in surgical caps, or turning fabric right-side out.

As you can see, sewing is just part of what we do. If you’d like to join us for our luncheon, please email Stephanie Levin at sslaging@gmail.com by Dec. 15. You’ll be given information how to register and select your meal. Check out our website: www.sewandsews.org

Message From The Club General Manager

By Bill Weller, Verandah Club General Manager

We are pleased that Blossoms opened Oct. 19. We expanded the service area in the back to provide better experience for the membership. We added The NFL Ticket, new tables and chairs in the pavilion, additional fans, sunshades and other details. We will be having live music every Friday and Saturday night through March. The goal is to open every day, Monday to Sunday, ASAP.

We have continued to add additional staff in every department and will continue to do so as our season is fully upon us.

I would like to welcome all of our seasonal members back home. We have a very busy and fun season planned. Happy Holidays!

Consumer Alerts

Scammers Are Impersonating Federal Trade Commission

(FTC) Inspectors

By Alvaro Puig, Consumer Education Specialist

Scammers are using the names of Federal Trade Commission (FTC) employees, including the FTC’s Inspector General, to trick people into sending money or giving up their personal information. Here’s what you need to know.

The FTC won’t threaten you or demand a payment. If you get a letter with the name of an FTC Commissioner or staff member that threatens some dire consequence if you don’t

pay immediately, it’s a scam. Don’t pay. The same goes for threatening callers that claim to be from the FTC.

The FTC doesn’t give out prizes. If someone contacts you claiming to be from the FTC and says you need to pay to get your prize, it’s a scam

FTC employees won’t identify themselves with a badge number. If someone claiming to work for the FTC gives you a badge number, it’s a scam . Especially if they then ask you for money.

Don’t respond to someone who says they’re from the FTC and demands money, threatens you, or asks for personal or financial information. Report them to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

December Club Events

12/2 Live music at Blossoms: Bob Greenway

12/3 Holiday Tour of Homes

12/4 VCA Tree Lighting

12/5 VWSC Sip and Shop

12/8 Live music at Blossoms: Taylor Tones

12/9 Live music at Blossoms: Kelly Neff

12/12 Ladies’ guest day

12/13 Club Holiday Party

12/14 Men’s guest day

12/15 Live music at Blossoms: Ron Lorenzo

12/16 Live music at Blossoms: Gary and Carrie

12/17 Brunch with Santa 12/17 Playtime at Verandah

12/18 VCU event

12/22 Live music at Blossoms: Taylor Tones

12/23 Christmas carols and cocktails at Blossoms

12/24 Club closes at 3 p.m.

12/25 Club closed

12/29 Live music at Blossoms: Barbra Cantrell

12/30 Live music at Blossoms: Kelly Neff

12/31 New Year’s Eve event

News From Our Wellness And Lifestyle Director

By Leslie Larson, Director of Wellness and Lifestyle

Hours Of Operation:

Season Hours Through April

Monday To Friday: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Saturday And Sunday: 7

a.m. to 4 p.m.

Key Card Access: 5 to 8 p.m. daily

Stay In The Loop On Verandah Club Activities And Events With Text Updates

Get updates on court and course closures, class cancellations, upcoming events and much more from each of your Verandah departments.

For updates, text the number (239) 382-7236 with one of the following codes:

Fitness Code: VFitness

Tennis Code: VTennis

Pickleball Code: Vpicklehall

Bocce Code: Vbocce

Golf Code: VGolf

Food and Beverage Events Code: Verandah

Flashback:

2023 Halloween Court Sports Pro Exhibition And Potluck

This year we put a little twist on our traditional Halloween Court Sports Potluck and added a Pro

Exhibition making it an epically wicked good time! Thanks to our new Court Sports Director, Fred Hindle, we had eight different professionals (including Fred and Charles) from all over the area come out and put on a show for our Verandah Pickleball and Tennis players. From dinking and drinking, to acing and pacing around the devilish potluck dishes and ghoulish drinks from the beverage cart, it was a bloody good time and a great way to kick off the 2023/24 season. Fred and I look forward to adding more epic events like this one in the future for court sports.

Keto Christmas Buckeyes Recipe

I want to share a recipe for a low carbohydrate dessert. These peanut butter buckeyes are perfect for people trying to watch their sugar and carb intake, while not compromising on taste. Enjoy and Happy Holidays!

Ingredients:

• 1⅓ cups all-natural peanut butter (For keto, we use Justin’s natural, if not making keto, we use Jif.)

• ½ cup salted butter, softened

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 3½ cups confectioners Swerve (If not keto, use powdered sugar.)

• 3 cups Lily’s semisweet chocolate chips (If not keto, you can use chocolate wafers for easiest melting.)

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Instructions:

1. Add the peanut butter, butter, and vanilla to a large bowl or stand mixer and cream together for 30 seconds.

2. Sift the Swerve or powdered sugar into the bowl and beat until smooth.

3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

4. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and portion the peanut butter mixture out with a medium cookie scoop and roll into balls.

5. Place them on the cookie sheet and chill in the freezer for 20 to 30 minutes.

6. Just before removing the balls from the freezer, melt the chocolate and coconut oil in a wide glass on 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted.

7. Use a toothpick to spear the balls and dip them in the melted chocolate. Use a fork to help remove the toothpick from the ball and place back on the parchment paper.

8. Use your finger or a paring knife to lightly cover the hole from the toothpick.

9. Allow to set until the chocolate hardens.

Notes:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to seven days or freeze in a freezer bag for up to three months.

• Some all-natural peanut butters can be runny – if your peanut butter balls are too runny, you can stir in up to two tablespoons coconut flour to help thicken. Try to mix natural peanut butter well so it is smooth, like a more processed peanut butter.

• If you use chocolate wafers for the regular/full sugar version, omit coconut oil.

• There will be excess chocolate remaining since you need to be able to dip these balls almost fully without covering the tops, so you need the chocolate to be always deep enough for the balls to sink in.

• Don’t let the balls sit out too long before dipping because they can start to sweat, and it will make it hard for the chocolate to stick.

• Do not freeze for more than 30 minutes prior to dipping. Place in the refrigerator if not ready to dip.

Nutrition Information: Makes: 34 Buckeyes

Serving Size: 1 Buckeye

Calories: 164

Total Fat: 13g

Saturated Fat: 6g

Trans Fat: 0g

Unsaturated Fat: 6g

Cholesterol: 12g

Carbohydrates: 12g

Net Carbohydrates: 3g

Fiber: 2g

Sugars: 3g

Sugar Alcohols: 9g

Protein: 3g

Tennis professionals: Mike Kornienko; Laura Brown, head racquets professional, Pelican Landings; Gerard Matze, director of tennis, Colony Country Club; Fred Hindle, director of court sports, Verandah Club

Pickleball professionals: Korey Knapp, head racquets professional, Pelican Sound; Tate Schmitz, pickleball professional; Josh Jeffcott, director of racquet sports, Sundial Beach Resort & Spa; Charles Nelson, pickleball professional, Verandah Club

Caring For Holiday Plants

By Barbara Watson, Master Gardener

Flowering plants are an important part of the upcoming holiday season, whether used to decorate or given as a gift. In addition to the traditional poinsettia, there are a number of plants that have become holiday favorites. Christmas cactus, amaryllis, cyclamen, paperwhite narcissus, kalanchoe, and orchids are examples of plants sold during the holidays.

Whatever plant you choose, the following general tips should help keep your plant healthy during this festive season and after:

• Place your plants in a spot where they will receive bright, indirect light. Avoid direct exposure to the hot sun. The hot sun will dry out the soil quickly causing leaf and flower drop.

Introducing Our Pet(s) Of The Month

A pet portrait is a way to celebrate the special bond someone has with their pet. And people report that they feel more contentment and less stress after seeing a cute animal. With that in mind, along with the love of animals that pervades our community, we are pleased to announce that a Verandah pet will be featured in each month’s edition.

These two shown at right, a brother and sister, are gorgeous Basenjis. The Basenji breed is from Egypt and is believed to be one of the oldest breeds known. Thus, it is no surprise that their owners Kim and Michael Stanley named them Kleopatra and Ramses. Kleopatra and Ramses are loving, playful, and enjoy long walks and afternoons at the Verandah Dog Park.

A beloved pet’s photo, whether dog, cat, horse, bird, or fish, will be featured here every month. Resident owners can send in a photo with their name and their pet’s name, the type of pet, and one sentence about their pet by texting sshamey@ymail.com or texting at (724) 355-2478. Pet photos will be randomly chosen from all entries – big or small. All our pets are beautiful and they are loved.

and Ramses

Poinsettia

• The optimum room temperature to keep your plant is 65 to 75 degrees with a cooler nighttime temperature. Poinsettias are tropical plants and can tolerate warmer temperatures, while cyclamens prefer a cool temperature.

• Avoid drafts and sudden temperature changes.

• Keep the soil evenly moist, but do not overwater This will cause leaf drop and eventually death of the plant. If your plant comes in a foil sleeve, remove the sleeve or poke holes in the bottom to prevent water from collecting and being absorbed by the plant. Most plants are watered from the top. An exception is cyclamen which is best watered by letting the plant sit in a saucer of water for 15 to 20 minutes.

• Remove spent blooms to promote continued blooming.

• Some holiday plants such as cyclamen, amaryllis, holly and mistletoe are toxic and should be placed away from pets or avoid using.

Enjoy the holidays and your holiday plants!

Kleopatra

Cyclamen

Let’s Go To Dinner

Coldwater Oyster Market

This seafood restaurant has been open for two years with owners Adam and Erin Nardis at the helm. The couple’s restaurant experience is New England based, having roots at The National Hotel on Block Island, Rhode Island.

We just discovered Coldwater this summer when friends told us we could dine inside with our dog. With cooler weather arriving the restaurant will be opening their doors to the outside, so even if you are inside, it will feel like you are dining al fresco.

Like the name says – it’s oyster time and they are terrific. The restaurant boasts Atlantic Northeast and Pacific Northwest oysters. How fresh are they, you ask? Upon being seated you will be given a sheet letting you know which oysters are available on that day. You can confidently order those oysters and know they are fresh.

While I always have some oysters, there are other items on the menu that should be noted. If you like calamari, the Point Judith Calamari are not to be missed. They are served with cherry peppers and bacon.

Another starter that is always a good choice is the P.E.I. Mussels. This starter is served with champagne, red curry butter, green onions and lime. This broth is great for dipping the crispy toast that comes with this dish.

Where entrees are concerned, I have a couple of favorites. The Lobster Tortellini is rich and delicious. The waitstaff suggested ordering it with extra spinach, I did, and it added dimension to the dish.

Being from New England myself, I love the Connecticut Lobster Roll. It is served hot with butter and lemon. This handheld comes with crispy French fries and a garnish of made-to-order coleslaw.

The Caramelized Scallops is probably my favorite item on the menu. This presentation includes sweet onion and smoked Gouda risotto and truffled asparagus. If others in your group, or your spouse are not interested in seafood, the burgers are a good choice. The Plain Jane Burger comes highly recommended and is served with those crispy fries. The Carpetbagger Burger is served with smoked Gouda, bacon, truffle aioli and two fried oysters. Have your server separate those two oysters for your “oyster loving friend.”

Note: This restaurant is open seven days a week. Monday through Saturday lunch, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday brunch, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dinner is available every evening until 9 p.m. Located at 5611 Six Mile Commercial Court, Suite #4, Fort Myers, FL 33912.

Baltimore-Style Crab Cakes With A Chili-Lime Aioli Sauce

2 large eggs, well beaten

1/2 cup celery, chopped (3 stalks)

1 cup crushed saltines (24 crackers)

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning

1/4 teaspoon red hot pepper flakes

2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

2 tablespoons parsley sprigs, finely chopped

1/2 cup scallion, finely chopped (2 bunches with green tops) salt and pepper to taste

1 pound fresh lump crabmeat, shell and cartilage removed (Phillips recommended)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup vegetable oil

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl. combine the eggs, celery, saltines, mustard, Old Bay Seasoning, pepper flakes, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, scallions, salt and pepper, and blend well. Add the crab meat, folding it in lightly without breaking it up.

2. Divide the mixture into equal portions. Shape them into quarter-size-like patties. Dredge them lightly in the breadcrumbs.

3. Heat approximately 2 tablespoons of the oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Saute the crab cakes for 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown, using the remaining 2 tablespoons oil if necessary. Drain on paper towels immediately.

4. Serve with the Chili-Lime Aioli Sauce

Makes 8 dinner-size, 12 lunch-size, 55 mini-size crab cakes

Chili-Lime Aioli Sauce

Serves: 12

1 clove garlic, minced

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1 large egg

1 large egg yolk

1 cup canola oil

Lime zest

2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (1 juicy lime)

2 orange or red habanero or other hot chile peppers, minced, with seeds and ribs removed

Directions:

Place the garlic and salt in the bowl of a food processor. Process until pureed. Add the egg and egg yolk and process, scraping down the sides of the bowl to combine the ingredients thoroughly. With the machine running, very slowly add the canola oil a few drops at a time at first, and then in a thin steady stream; it will emulsify and thicken. Once the oil is added and the aioli has formed, quickly pulse in the the lime zest and the juice. Transfer to a bowl and stir in the peppers. The aioli may be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one day.

Surf’s Up, By

Ginger Snap

How To Navigate The Entertainment And Events At Verandah

Verandah has a wonderful problem! There are so many clubs with programs, musical performances, educational programs, and entertainment sponsored by the Club, it’s hard to keep everything straight. How do we find out what’s happening and sign up in time to attend? The system is not always intuitive, but with a few tips, you’ll be signing up like a pro!

• Make sure your email address is registered with both the Club (verandahlife.com) and the VCA (vcalife.com). If you aren’t receiving emails from the Club and VCA, they don’t have your contact information. Don’t rely on your spouse or partner to tell you what’s going on! Register for yourself so you’re in the know!

• Most Club activities are sent in emails with colorful announcements. They contain the dates, time, and all pertinent information. HINT: When you receive these

emails, scroll down! While it looks like it’s announcing one event, many times other activities are included in the same email.

• Each activity announcement will tell you whom to contact to register for the program. Some events have different registration addresses.

• Registration for most of the Club activities is on the verandahlife.com website. The sites will look different if you’re using a cell phone, laptop or iPad. Go to Member Central and click on the + sign next to it. Lots of cool things are under this heading. Your monthly bill from the Club, member directory (if you want to find contact info for a resident), and the event calendar.

• The event calendar, for some reason, includes the fitness classes, although they also have their own listing under Wellness Activities (Fitness registration). Some

Five Ways To Safely Celebrate With Your Pet This Holiday Season

By Dr. Whitney Miller, DVM, MBA, DACVPM

Most pet parents agree: their animals are part of what makes the holiday season so magical. While it’s an excellent opportunity to integrate furry family members into all the special holiday traditions and make memories together, there are a few things you should keep in mind to keep your pet safe and healthy throughout the festivities:

• Opt for pet-friendly decorations. Many favorite holiday decorations need to be kept out of pets’ reach. Mistletoe, pine needles, ivy garland, holly, lilies and poinsettias can be toxic to pets when consumed. This is why I recommend artificial Christmas trees to those with particularly curious pets that like to chew on plants. If you don’t choose an artificial tree, it’s important to note that some water additives for real trees can be toxic, so you should make sure your pet can’t access this water source. When decorating your tree, it’s best to

avoid tinsel and breakable ornaments to prevent potential hazards, and you should always secure your tree to prevent a climbing cat from tipping it over.

• Keep pets warm and dry. As the weather gets colder, pets may need a few extra layers to stay comfortable and safe while outdoors. Booties can help prevent a pup’s paws from getting ice in them and offer protection from salt-treated walkways. At home, use pet-safe ice melt rather than salt, which can be irritating to pets’ paws, mouths and stomachs. You can keep them feeling warm and looking stylish on winter adventures with sweaters and jackets. A cozy handwarmer lead will help keep you warm as well while you’re out and about. When you return home, always dry off their coats and paws to remove debris and ice clumps in fur and between paw pads.

• Choose and wrap gifts wisely. If you’re one of the nearly 80 percent of pet parents who, according to a recent

events can be registered for on either. The activities are listed by event time, so you’ll have to go past Cardio Step at 8 a.m. to get to 5 p.m. and the event you’d like to attend.

• After registering, you can see others who will be attending the event, if you’d like to carpool.

• You’re on your own with remembering to mark the event on your personal calendar and alerting your significant other that you’ve registered.

• Helpful hint: At Verandah, arriving fashionably late means you’ll be at the end of the line. During season, you’ll be parking on the grass when all the spots are taken. Plan to arrive fashionably early.

It’s worth navigating the registration process to attend all the great activities the Club has lined up for us this season!

consumer survey of 1,000 dog and cat parents, plan to include pets in holiday gifting, make sure pets only have access to and open presents while supervised so they don’t ingest any paper or tape. I recommend sticking to wrapping paper for pet gifts, as ribbons, bows and accessories can be dangerous when ingested. Whether you’re buying advent calendars, apparel or toys for your pet, holiday stockings offer an easy and pet-safe “wrapping” option that you can use year after year.

• Be aware of toxic holiday foods. Common holiday foods such as chocolate, turkey skin and bones, ham, grapes and raisins, garlic, caffeine, alcohol, onions, certain spices and sweets, especially any containing xylitol, should be avoided. For festive pet-safe foods, your local pet store has a variety of sweet and savory dog treats just for the holidays. If you think your pet has accidentally ingested toxic food or other material, contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline, (855) 764-7661, immediately.

• Prioritize pet health and wellness. Involving pets in holiday traditions can mean taking them along for a road trip, introducing them to new people or staying in unfamiliar environments – all things that can cause anxiety in pets. It’s important to keep your pet’s mental health top of mind during the holiday season and year-round. When possible, pets should be introduced to new people and pets in a neutral environment, individually and at their own pace. For pets that experience anxiety in the car, practicing with short drives or sitting in the car while parked, followed by treats and positive reinforcement, can help the adjustment and prepare them for a long ride. Calming products can help mitigate anxiety in pets, and you can also consult your veterinarian for anxiety or motion sickness treatments to help make travel easier.

‘Don’t Miss Seeing One Of America’s Top Repertory Companies!’ The Florida Repertory Theater

There is so much more to Southwest Florida than sunshine, golf, and tennis, although admittedly they are pretty wonderful. But when you’re looking for something different, something that can transport you beyond yourself and into a land of magic, consider a performance at the Florida Rep. Heralded by The Wall Street Journal as “one of America’s Top Repertory Companies,” it is one of the leading groups in Southwest Florida and has won many awards including “Best Performing Arts Group” by Gulfshore Life and Florida Weekly

The Florida Repertory took over the facility in 1998 and it is now the premier professional regional theater in Southwest Florida. It is a wonderful venue for watching a play. The Arcade Theater is a 393-seat proscenium theatre, in which there is no bad seat in the house, with a state-ofthe-art sound system. The ArtStage Studio Theater seats up to 120 theatergoers who are so close to the stage that they often feel like they are right there in the room with the actors and actresses as they perform.

Located in the heart of Fort Myers Historic River District, it has been hosting arts and entertainment for over a century for many, including in earlier times such prominent folks as the Firestones, the Fords, and the Edisons. It was originally a vaudeville house and then a movie theater called the Arcade, sitting amongst an arcade of shops. In the 1880s it fell into disrepair but was completely renovated in 1991 with funds raised and donated by Mikhail Baryshnikov.

You may be surprised to know that its theatrical mission includes education. The Florida Rep is a nonprofit 501(c) (3) professional theater “dedicated to improving the quality of life in Southwest Florida through first-rate live theatre

productions and innovative community engagement programs.” The Rep offers summer intensive camps where the children perform as actors, singers and dancers in modern and classic musicals such as The Wizard of Oz. The company tours area schools and performs age-appropriate plays for all ages. It is also a training facility, admitting 16 to 18 college grads each season where they see firsthand all that goes into a theater production and learn if this is the career for them. There are so many reasons to choose the arts and entertainment that the Florida Repertory provides. Take a look at this season’s offerings at https://www.floridarep.org/ the-season-tickets/. You won’t be disappointed.

Proscenium stage

ArtStage Studio Theater

ArtFest Fort MyersVolunteers Welcome. Be Part Of The Arts

ArtFest Fort Myers, the premier fine art festival in Southwest Florida, actively seeks volunteers to join our dynamic team to support this acclaimed event.

The 2024 edition of ArtFest Fort Myers unfolds in the heart of the downtown Fort Myers River District, commencing at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 3, and concluding at 5 p.m. On Sunday, Feb. 4, the festival runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the grand opening scheduled for Friday, Feb. 2. This extraordinary event offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in the arts, featuring over 200 artists from across the county, the largest high school art exhibit and competition in South Florida, and a range of interactive art experiences designed for children of all ages.

“Our volunteer team represents a diverse cross-section of the community,” remarks Kathryn Robinson Kinsey, ArtFest Fort Myers executive director. “They come together with enthusiasm to work harmoniously during the festival weekend, ensuring attendees, professional artists, our generous sponsors, and VIP guests all have a memorable experience.”

ArtFest Fort Myers welcomes volunteers from all walks of life, whether for the festival weekend or those seeking more sustained, year-round involvement. Weekend volunteers are required to commit to a minimum fourhour shift, with a choice of roles such as interacting with professional artists, vending commemorative shirts, posters, and other festival merchandise, assisting in the children’s Art Yard, staffing the VIP Club, contributing to the success of the Publix Run To The Arts 5K, or selecting from numerous other volunteer assignments.

For those planning to attend the festival yet wishing to contribute their time, opportunities exist on Thursday and Friday in prefestival roles. These roles may encompass site decorating or artist/ volunteer hospitality. It’s important to note that professional labor crews handle all the heavy lifting, leaving you to actively participate in decorating the area and supporting the setup teams.

Volunteer benefits include reserved parking, an ArtFest Fort Myers volunteer T-shirt featuring the 2024 commemorative artist, complimentary snacks and water, the chance to interact with talented artists from across the country and worldwide, and the opportunity to connect with fellow dedicated volunteers like yourself.

The arts are pivotal in our community, enhancing our quality of life and delivering a substantial economic impact. The dedicated volunteers who help orchestrate this magic play an indispensable part in sustaining the vitality of the arts. You and your friends can leave a lasting mark on our community by signing up.

To register as a volunteer, visit ArtFestFortMyers. com and click the “Volunteer” button. Select a role that piques your interest – sign up early, as assignments are given on a first-come, first-served basis. No prior experience is necessary – your smiling face, positive attitude, and a comfortable pair of walking shoes are the only prerequisites.

Holiday House 2023

Now Through Dec. 31

For 67 years, Fort Myers Woman’s Community Club (FMWCC) has been proud to host Holiday House. The members of FMWCC are excited to bring this timeless,

treasured Southwest Florida tradition to life once more in a new and exciting fashion.

This year we’re decking the halls, or more specifically the windows, of First Street in our picturesque historic downtown river district!

Welcome Back Verandah Neighbors!

Fully Staffed and Accepting New Patients

For further information, please visit ArtFestFortMyers.com or contact us at (239) 768-3602 or info@ArtFestFortMyers. com. Please stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram using the hashtag #artfestfm.

If You Go

What: Volunteer with Southwest Florida’s premier art festival.

When: Four-hour shifts are available on Feb. 3 and 4.

Saturday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pre-festival shifts are available on Feb. 1 and 2.

Where: Downtown Fort Myers River District on Edwards Drive

How: Visit ArtFestFortMyers.com and click the “Volunteer” button.

Perks: An ArtFest Fort Myers T-shirt; reserved volunteer parking; complimentary snacks and water; the chance to interact with great artists and fellow volunteers

Parking: Reserved parking spaces exclusively for volunteers – a prized perk indeed

I’ll Be Home for Christmas ... If Only In My Dreams is a timeless salute to our military. Enjoy scenes both modern and vintage all along First Street, with the occasional offshoot, of what we want our men and women in uniform to see when they come home to their families for the holidays.

There is no charge for our presentation but we invite you to scan the QR codes on the signs in any of the windows to donate as you are able. The invaluable support of our community makes next year’s Holiday House event possible!

How do I know which businesses will be decorated? I want to see them all! As we firm up details with the business owners along our stroll path, we will share as we are able.

Is Holiday House at the Burroughs home or Langford-Kingston house this year? Due to consistent scheduling conflicts with weddings and other events during the holiday season, it has become increasingly difficult to sustain our event at the homes so Holiday House 2023 will take place exclusively along the stroll path to the west of the Sidney Berne Davis Art Center. When does Holiday House end? This year’s event will run until Dec. 31. Holiday House will be available to the public for the entirety of the Christmas season! Will there be any place for Santa pictures? FMWCC does not currently have any plans to host a Santa meet and greet anywhere along the stroll path.

Where do I park? We encourage you to enjoy the entirety of the event so there is no designated Holiday House parking. Garages are easily accessible and unmetered street parking is available throughout the river district.

The ladies of the Fort Myers Woman’s Community Club invite you to join us in 2023 for a Holiday House Christmas Stroll.