Verandah View
Letter From The Board President
By Ian A. Shaffer, President, Verandah Community Association
A warm welcome back to our seasonal residents. The community has been bustling while you were gone. Most of the cleanup and repairs have been done from Hurricane Ian . The last of the big projects is replacing the trees that were lost. You will see that happening while you’re here this season.
The new board has been seated. Each board member serves a two-year term. David Keeley, Wally Watson, and I are serving our second year. Mary Basile, Neal Rose, and
John Sample were seated as the new board members in the Oct. 18 annual meeting. We welcome them and look forward to continuing the good work of this community.
Over the next 90 days, the Tropic gate will convert to virtual attendants. The first sign of this that you will see is the equipment being installed. As we get closer to transitioning to the virtual attendant, we will provide more details for you. This change will allow 24/7 access to the community for both residents and registered guests.
This is the second edition of the Verandah View developed by our very own Communications Committee. We heard nothing but positive comments about the first edition. There is a lot of work that goes into producing an informative paper like this. The day one edition is finished, the committee immediately shifts its focus to the deadlines for the next edition. Please join me in sending our thanks to the many dedicated people who serve this community.
Visions Of Sugar Plums
Nov. 16, 5 To 7 p.m. At The River House
“The children were nestled all snug in their beds…” A familiar poem that brings warm memories for most of us, but not so for many children in Southwest Florida. Visions of Sugar Plums is a small committee of women who organized years ago, for the purpose of helping the Verandah community bring joy to area families in need during the winter holidays. As the Verandah community has grown, so has our outreach, and we are now a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation.
Visions of Sugar Plums “adopts” the whole family. Every child, from toddler to teenager, gets new shoes, some new clothes, and as many gifts from their wish list as the allotted money will buy. Many of these children have never had a brand-new pair of shoes or clothes that haven’t been handed down. Often the parents we talk with don’t know what gift to ask for. “They will like anything” is a quite common response. So just imagine the delight of getting her first doll, or the thrill of getting a bike of their very own!
Groups of Verandah friends do the shopping from the wish lists. They shop for each child, wrap the gifts, and then deliver them to a central location in late December. More Verandah residents load up their vehicles and deliver the concealed packages to the families’ homes just before Christmas. Last year Verandah made wishes come true for 235 children “in our own backyard,” including the children of our own Verandah staff in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian
The magic begins with a ladies’ cocktail party in the River House. Our decorating team will make it a festive setting for you to get dressed up and get in the holiday spirit. Attendees’ accounts will be charged $15 for the party, wine, and light food. The Verandah management supports our efforts for the event and always makes it outstanding.
There will be a donation box at the door where we graciously accept your monetary donations by cash, check, or Venmo. By the end of the evening, we will know how much money has been donated, and that will tell us how many children we can help. There will also be a sign-up
Design Review Committee (DRC)
November Meeting Dates Nov. 8 and 22 @ 2 p.m.
You are invited to the Annual COCKTAIL PARTY
Visions of Sugar Plums
Thursday 16 November 5:00 - 7:00 at The River House
$15 charged to your Verandah account includes Party, Wine, & Light Food.
Bring donations (Cash, Check, Venmo) for “Adopt-a-Family” for area families.
Opportunity to sign up to shop for children and/or deliver gifts. R.S.V.P. available soon.
table at the party, where you will have the opportunity to sign up with friends to shop and wrap for a family, and/ or to deliver the gifts.
We also provide all the food for the families’ holiday meals, and for the week the children are home from school. Our team of expert food shoppers scours the BOGOs and works with the Publix and Winn Dixie managers to stretch those precious food dollars. They know the best nutritious staple foods, and they include treats, like fresh oranges and grapes, and perhaps even a box of frosted cookies.
Modification Requests Submitted By Category
Landscape improvements are always one of the items that top the list of modification requests from homeowners. A year after Hurricane Ian , generators and roof replacements were a close second to the landscape requests reviewed by the DRC members in September.
Tips For Making Sure Your Request Is Approved
Each month as modification requests are submitted, there are always some that are returned or are denied. Here are some helpful tips to make sure that your modification application is complete and ready for review and will be approved.
1. Submit your request on the correct modification form. https://www.vcalife.com/folder/modification-forms/
2. Include the contractor’s insurance, even if they have done projects in Verandah.
3. Use the project guideline documents as a checklist. There is a document for each type of project. At the bottom, you will see a section that tells you what you can provide to assist the reviewers. https://www.vcalife.com/ folder/project-guidelines/
• If you are painting the exterior of your home, refer to the new Color Wheel found on the VCAlife.com website. A hard copy is available at the VCA office and at the Sherwin Williams paint store at The Forum.
• If you are updating your landscaping, use the updated plant list. This document gives you details on growth rate, whether the plants like sun or shade, etc. It is very helpful, especially if you are new to Florida landscaping.
• If you are adding exterior equipment, such as a generator, be sure to include the landscape plan. All exterior equipment should be shielded from street view with landscaping.
4. Compare your request to the Design Review Guidelines.
The most common reasons for applications being returned or not approved can be avoided by using the helpful documents provided in the Design Review section of the VCAlife.com website.
A Letter From The VCA General Manager – November
By Lynne Pietrzyk
It’s been a busy fall
here in Verandah.
Maintenance Projects
Many maintenance projects have been completed. Lawns have been fertilized in VCA common areas. Annuals will be refreshed in the common areas and VCA-managed neighborhood monuments in early November. A year after Hurricane Ian, the roofing contractor was finally able to secure the tiles to replace the roofs on the gatehouses and that project is complete as well. Gatehouse Staff
Speaking of the gatehouse, Weiser Security Services has taken over the management of the gatehouse and staff. They have been doing a great job and this is a welcome relief after two years of being short-staffed. Security is all Weiser does, so they have a better program for attracting and retaining the right staff for this position. Many of our long-term familiar faces transitioned to employment with Weiser. To expedite the entry of your guests and vendors, please dial (888) 698-1877 for the automated attendant.
Fall Inspections
As we work on maintenance projects within the VCA, don’t forget that November is also the time when property inspections are done. What does that mean? The VCA staff inspects the community to identify any roofs, homes, or driveways that need to be cleaned.
Please take the opportunity to check your property for mold and dirt. Schedule your maintenance soon before the contractors get busy. If you have an ongoing roof claim that precludes you from cleaning your roof, please email us to let us know. If you have your cleaning scheduled, but it will not be done in the next few weeks before the inspection, also tell us that. Homeowners who have home maintenance required, and who do not notify us of scheduled cleaning or roof claims, will receive a written notification requesting that you schedule the cleaning.
Help save us time and the cost of these notifications by being proactive – whether that’s scheduling it now and letting us know or telling us you have an active roof claim. It saves everyone time and money! Email us at office@ vcalife.com.
Let’s work together to keep Verandah a beautiful and well-maintained community!
November Holiday Office Hours
The VCA office will be closed for the Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday, Nov. 23 and Friday, Nov. 24.
AN OLD-FASHIONED HOLIDAY!
Save the Date for Verandah’s Annual Winter Festival Monday, December 4th from 5:00–7:00 p.m. in front of the River House (Rain date is December 11th)
▪ The theme is An Old-Fashioned Holiday!
▪ Join us as we deck the halls in red, green, and gold.
▪ Visit with Santa.
▪ Enjoy cocktails and appetizers.
▪ Listen to music by DJ Jay Raden.
▪ Bring new, unwrapped gifts to donate to Toys for Tots.
Deanna Busbin, Resident Service Coordinator
In each edition, we will spotlight a staff member of the VCA or club. In this edition, we shine the light on Deanna. Hers is usually the first smiling face that greets you as you enter the VCA office. Deanna has been with the Verandah Community Association for nearly three years. Her work anniversary is Dec. 14.
Deanna does a variety of things in the office. She helps residents with questions on their account, assists in getting them logged in to the payment portal or website,
and answers general questions submitted to the office@ vcalife.com email address. And many of you are familiar with her homeowner orientation. She has been welcoming new homeowners, providing them with useful information, getting them scan passes, and making them feel at home in Verandah. When asked what her favorite part of her job is, she said she enjoys helping people. She also enjoys being organized and loves the team she works with. Deanna celebrated her 35th wedding anniversary in October. She was born and raised here in Southwest Florida. She likes to spend her off-work time with her grandchildren, children, and hubby. She likes fishing, puzzles, games, crafts, and mowing the lawn. A few other fun facts about Deanna: She feels blessed and grateful to be at Verandah, her favorite color is green, and she loves bears and peanut butter!
Thank you, Deanna, for all you do for the residents of Verandah and for taking the time to allow us to get to know you better.
Message From The Club General Manager
By Bill Weller, Verandah Club General Manager
We are happy to say Blossoms is officially open for the season! If you have not stopped by, come and check it out! Especially on Sunday! We have the NFL ticket and drink specials all day! We are also ecstatic that we are now operating on both golf courses!
Don’t forget to make a reservation for Thanksgiving! We will have seatings from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with an array of delicious food! Reservations close on Nov. 21 so make sure you get your reservation before it is booked out!
I hope you will join us for our many events this month. Events For November
Live Music Every Weekend at Blossoms!
11/2 Minnesotans Cocktail Event
11/2 to 11/3 Men’s Member Member Stroke Play
11/7 Bingo at the Club
11/10 to 11/11 Ladies’ Member Member Stroke Play
11/11 Season Opener
11/13 Jean Lewis – Book Talk
11/14 Mah Jongg Tournament
11/15 Club 9 and Dine
11/15 Prime Rib Buffet
11/16 Sugar Plums Cocktail Event
11/17 Playtime at Verandah
11/22 Farmers’ Market
11/23 Thanksgiving
11/24 Black Friday Beer Bust
11/28 Bingo at the Club
11/29 Member Mingler
No one in the family gets left out. Our Verandah Sew and Sews very graciously craft a soft knotted throw, beautifully wrapped and tied, for each Mom (or Dad, or Grandma). A generous resident often donates fragrant bath and body product packages for our families. Everyone gets something, and we are quite frequently told that is the first time anyone has ever given them a gift.
We fully expect the cocktail party will sell out again this year, so watch for R.S.V.P. information soon. Come spend a festive evening with your neighbors and friends. Give from your heart as you can. Sign up for a shopping day with other ladies if you wish. Join a wrapping-with-wine party. And be prepared to feel the joy. The joy of knowing you gave hope to a family in despair. That you let a young family know that someone they will never meet cares about them. That you made wishes come true.
“…While visions of sugar plums danced in their heads.”
Committee members: Sharon Coburn, president; Eva Fix, vice president; Sandie Pearl, secretary; Jackie Bogle; Carol Laprade; Stephanie Newman; and Pam Wark.
Verandah hostesses and their committees are busy planning and preparing their homes. If you are looking for fresh ideas to bring warmth and cheer to your home this holiday season, join us Sunday, December 3, 12 noon to 5 p.m. to enjoy the beautiful homes dressed in their holiday finery. Judy Carlson, home tour co-chair notes, "This event is anticipated by many and is a great way to kick off the holiday season."
We are proud to present these five beautiful homes for our third Tour of Homes fundraiser for Sew & Sews. The featured homes are hosted by:
• Deeg residence on Torrey Way
• Eberhart residence on Sanctuary Point
• McIntyre residence on Lakeview Isle Court
• Toro residence on Hammock Creek
• Everly residence on Meandering Way
Tickets are $20 per person
a Tickets are available ONLINE at sewandsews.org. Click on the Holiday Tour of Homes tab at top right (laptop), or 3 bars at top left (cell phone).
a Tickets are also available in the barroom at the River House each Friday in November from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cash, checks, or credit cards are accepted.
a The first 500 ticket holders will receive a handmade, commemorative ornament made by Sew & Sews members.
When you attend the Holiday Tour of Homes, you support those in need as all proceeds benefit the following non-profits supported by the Sew & Sews: Golisano Children’s Hospital, Childrens Network of Southwest Florida, Immokalee Pregnancy Center, Valerie’s House, (ACT) Women’s and Children’s Shelters, Regional Cancer Center, and Tiny Showers.
If you have questions about the tour, please contact one of the tour committee members, Judy Carlson jacarlson715@gmail.com, Barbra Colquitt barbracolquitt@gmail.com, and Lisa Northrup lmnorthrup1@gmail.com
Visions Of Sugar Plums from page 1
Verandah Fitness And Court Sports News
By Leslie Larson, Director of Wellness and Lifestyle
Hours Of Operation: Winter Hours (MidOctober 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
Fitness, Tennis And Bocce Text Notifications
Don’t forget that Verandah offers a text message system for members to immediately be notified about fitness classes, court closures, etc. If you are interested, please do the following:
Text the below message to (239) 382-7236:
Fitness: VFitness
Tennis: VTennis
Bocce: VBocce
Coordinate play time with like-level Verandah players for pickleball, tennis, and bocce on the TeamReach app. Download the TeamReach app and join the court sport group chat of your choice.
– App name: TeamReach
– Group codes: -Pickleball: Verandah
– Tennis: VerandahT
– Bocce: VerandahB
Upcoming Events
Third Annual 5K Turkey Trot Walk/Run Harry Chapin Fundraiser!
Wednesday, Nov. 22
Registration 9:15 to 9:50 a.m.| Race Starts 10 a.m.
Location: in the parking lot in front of the fitness center
Grab your friends, family and pets and join us for the Verandah Club Thanksgiving 5K Turkey Trot Walk/Run
Fundraiser. Dress up in your best Thanksgiving outfits or colors and run/walk the 5K (3.1 miles) to help raise money for a good cause. Mingle after the race and enjoy small bites. $10 entry fee, per person cash only. Price includes small bites and beverages. All extra proceeds will be donated to The Harry Chapin Food Bank. Feel free to donate more, or contact Leslie if you cannot make it, but would still like to donate. LeslieL@Verandah.com
Spotlights: Welcome Our New Additions To Verandah
Personal Trainer: Tricia Helton
to Southwest Florida from Chicago, where he has taught tennis since 1997 and coached players who have gone on to play at all levels, including collegiate tennis. In the last three years Charles has found a new love of playing and teaching pickleball to all skill level players.
Charles has two pickleball certifications and is here to help any and all looking to take their game to the next level.
Tricia is originally from Columbus, Ind., and moved here to Florida full-time about four years ago. She has a Bachelor of Science in elementary education and has also been a group fitness instructor since 2001. She loves everything about health and fitness and has decided to make it her fulltime job to bring as much knowledge and passion as she can to help others live their best lives while living in the beautiful sunshine state.
Tricia is an ACE certified personal trainer and teaches a variety of group fitness classes from barre, bootcamp, HIIT, cycle, Pilates, yoga, step, strength, and much more. We are extremely excited to not only have Tricia as one of our group fitness instructors, but to now utilize her teaching and fitness knowledge and experience as one of our personal trainers for the Verandah members.
Pickleball Pro: Charles Nelson
Charles Nelson has over 38 years of combined experience playing and teaching tennis, coaching all ages and skill levels, as well as group lessons. He relocated
Charles is a PPR and IPTPA Certified Pickleball Instructor, as well as a USPTA Certified Tennis Professional.
Massage Therapist: Krystall Allender
As a licensed and insured massage therapist with over 13 years of experience, Krystall is a true master of the art of healing through touch. Specializing in a range of techniques, she is renowned for her expertise in advanced therapeutic, relaxing, intuitive, and medical massage. With a deep understanding of the human body and its intricate needs, she tailors each session to address specific concerns and promote overall wellness. With 44 certifications including bamboo-fusion, hot stone, prenatal, special populations, Trager, Rolfing, PNFART-CRAC, medical, cupping and gua sha, lomilomi, neuromuscular, cranio-sacral, human and animal Reiki mastership, CBD certified practitioner, and hot stone massage, she has quite a repertoire of healing modalities. This diverse skill set allows her to offer a truly personalized experience, ensuring that each client receives the treatment that best suits their unique needs.
Hall Of Fame Pitcher
Bert Blyleven Hits His Program Out Of The Park At Verandah Community
University’s First Class Of The Season
On Oct. 16, Verandah Community University (VCU), held its first class and it was a winner! Bert Blyleven, Hall of Fame pitcher and Verandah golf member, addressed the crowd of over 150 students in the River House Dining Room. Thanks to Bert for his time and expertise, the club staff for the use of the facilities, and the VCU “students” who supported the university and our first program. We hope to see you at our next program on Nov. 13 to hear Jean Lewis tell us about the “hot” books of 2024!
Why Do We Verticut And Topdress The Golf Course
By Jake Wentz, Director of Agronomy
Definition of verticutting
– The thinning of turfgrasses by blades or wire tines that cut perpendicular to the soil surface. Specifically designed to remove mat, thatch and grain from greens and to thin dense turf.
Here are the benefits of verticutting:
• Verticutting removes thatch, reduces grain and forces the remaining turf to stand up straight and smooths the putting surface for better ball roll.
• Verticutting has direct relation with increasing green speed.
• Verticutting opens the turf canopy to allow in more sunlight and also to promote water and nutrient penetration.
• Vertical mowing allows the plant to put more energy into growing upright shoots instead of lateral shoots.
• Verticutting thins the turf canopy creating space for topdressing sand to be worked into the soil and thatch layer.
Definition of topdressing – A prepared mixture usually containing sand and organic matter used for leveling and smoothing the playing surface.
Here are the benefits of topdressing:
• Topdressing produces a smooth, firm putting surface.
• Topdressing controls thatch, improves drainage and improves biological balance.
• Topdressing fills in holes left by core aerification.
• Topdressing protects the crown of the plant.
• Topdressing increases ball roll distances and allows lower mowing heights.
• Improves soil composition, by creating a less compaction prone growing medium. This helps turf cope better with stress brought on by heat and overuse.
Although verticutting and topdressing can be disruptive to play at times this cultural practice is necessary to have optimum putting surfaces. During season we perform this application biweekly on Monday morning ahead of play.
Golf News You Can Use
Helpful Habits For Positive Pace Of Play
By Caleb Werness
A round of golf can be spoiled for several reasons: missed putts, bad shots, losing a match to your buddies – just to name a few. However, there is one reason that seems to irk the regular golfer more than any of these, the dreaded “slow play.”
I’ve had multiple encounters with golfers where, on a beautiful, sunny day, you ask them about their round and the only takeaway was: It was slow. An otherwise perfect day proved frustrating because a group was unable to keep proper pace and as a result the groups behind them were slowed.
Falling behind pace-of-play can happen to anyone. Taking an extra 30 seconds per hole will put you five minutes back only halfway through your round. Instead of panicking, here are some simple habits you can easily implement during your round if you find your group slowing down:
• Play “ready golf.”
○ Instead of opting for the traditional waiting for the away player, have whoever is ready soonest hit their shot, then proceed.
• Pick up after net double bogey.
○ The GHIN handicap system caps a golfer’s score on a hole after they make net double bogey. That is double bogey plus any strokes received on the hole via handicap.
• The lead cart should be first to tee off.
○ If you have multiple tee boxes being played amongst your group, have the players playing furthest back lead and tee off first.
• Do scoring on the next tee box.
○ After putting out, proceed to the next hole and score so the group behind you can safely play up to the green.
• Plan your shot before getting to your ball.
○ As you approach your shot, think about club selection and how to play it. You are ready to swing when you arrive.
• Keep the pre-shot routine short.
○ Take an intentional practice swing if needed –thinking about whatever swing thoughts you may have. Then, step up and hit. No need for complicated waggles, numerous practice swings, realignments, etc.
Pace of play problems can be easily avoided if you stay mindful of it and implement these habits as needed. A few seconds saved here and there make a great deal of difference for your group and the groups behind you!
Burt Blyleven, Hall of Fame pitcher with Susan Shamey, founder of Verandah Community University.
Verandah Community University Introduces The Expert’s Picks For 2024 Bestsellers
If you are looking for your next great read, look no more. Jean Lewis is coming to Verandah on Monday, Nov. 13, with her expert opinions and recommendations for the bestsellers for 2024. This will be Lewis’ second presentation at Verandah. Verandah hosted Lewis this past February and she spoke to an audience of over 50 residents on compelling books and authors.
Jean is an avid reader, a book reviewer for publishers who send her prepublication books, a former book buyer for Barnes & Noble and Books A Million. Also, she has many contacts with publishers, authors, and literary agents asking for her help. Her business, Maurice On Books, keeps her very busy reading, reviewing and doing presentations to communities all around Southwest Florida.
By coming to Lewis’ Book Talk, you will receive a list of her very expertly done reviews of potential bestsellers for the coming year. The list, which is copyrighted, includes 20 of her top choices, 10 more as honorable mentions, and 10 more which will be available later in the year.
Lewis is engaging, funny, and comprehensive in her talks. Her recommendations include books for everyone from adventure to science fiction to romance to dark places and to laugh-out-loud reads. Whether or not you belong to a book club or are a reader just for the pure pleasure of reading, please sign up for Lewis on the club’s Event Calendar by email to verunifm1@yahoo.com for Nov. 13. You won’t be disappointed.
For a preview of Jean’s work, check out her blog Maurice On Books for weekly book recommendations and her thoughts on sharing and reading.
Welcome Back Verandah Neighbors!
Landscape Tips –Choosing A Palm For Your Yard
By Barbara Watson, Master Gardener
In Florida, we have many different species of palms, the most of any state. These palms vary in shape and size. In the Verandah, there are 21 different palms on the VCA Approved Plant List: https:// www.vcalife.com/ documents/2903/.
A palm is often referred to as a tree because of its upright stature and other features similar to a hardwood tree. However, it actually is a grass, a member of the Aceraceae family and morphologically is quite different than a hardwood. Whether referred to as a tree or simply a palm, they are an important component of our tropical landscape. In fact, the sabal/ cabbage palm widely found throughout Verandah and Florida is designated as the state tree.
Choosing the correct palm for your property can be a difficult decision. The mature size and purpose of the palm, where you would like to locate it and its maintenance are all important factors in making the right choice. Palms, like hardwood trees, should be in scale to your yard and house. Small palms such as pygmy date, Christmas and bottle palms are best suited for smaller landscapes. Bismarck, canary date and royal are examples of palms for larger areas. Palms are used for many reasons. Will your palm be a focal point, part of a bed, an accent by your entry or a hedge or privacy screen? Remember that most palms need full to part sun when selecting a location and should be planted far enough from your home or driveway to allow for mature canopy width and root expansion. If selecting a royal palm, use caution when placing. This stately palm sheds fronds up to 60 pounds that can be harmful to humans, pets, automobiles and other property beneath it.
Once planted, it is important to properly maintain your palm to keep it healthy and attractive. Some palms such as Christmas, foxtail and royal are selfcleaning and will shed dead fronds. Others will need to be pruned to remove the dead fronds that have not dropped. If pruning yourself, be careful not to over-prune as the palm harvests food from sunlight and takes in moisture through its fronds. Most palms should be fertilized twice a year to maintain health and color.
Choosing the right palm for the right place will make for a happy palm and a beautiful tropical accent in your landscape.
Sabal palm
Let’s Go To Dinner
The Perfect Caper
This is a great “Special Occasion” restaurant. Located in Punta Gorda, this unique dining experience opened in 2001 and is owned by Chef Jeanie Roland and her husband James. Roland’s culinary career includes being nominated seven times by the James Beard Foundation, an Iron Chef appearance and defeating Bobby Flay in an episode of Beat Bobby Flay
Sip, Shop, Socialize Pop-Up Vendor Event
Tuesday, Dec. 5, 5 To 7:30 p.m.
What could be better than sipping and shopping?
Enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and socialize while doing some holiday shopping for family, friends, or yourself! We have an awesome lineup of vendors. Some of the favorites from last year will return and new exciting vendors will join us. Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll find: women’s apparel, jewelry, handbags, art, candles, hand-painted glassware, charcuterie boards, and other resin art, cooking mixes/ spices, and much more!
Grandma’s Closet
Grandma’s Closet is a lending library of items that neighbors are willing to lend to each other. It began years ago with baby items being loaned to others when grandkids came to visit. Many of these items were outgrown after one season. So why not lend them to someone else?
Medical items were added such as walkers, canes, and raised toilet seats were needed after joint replacement. Sports equipment, tools, and beach toys are just some of the items available.
If you have items you’re willing to lend, contact Stephanie Levin at sslaging@comcast.net with your name, address and email, and they will be added to the list.
Grandma’s Closet is easy to use! Just contact the person on the list who has something to lend.
Finding Grandma’s Closet is a little trickier! Go to vcalife.com. At the top right side of the page,
For a starter, here are a few items I can recommend. I haven’t tried all the firsts because I have my favorites.
Foie Gras Club – this is my favorite item on the menu. You rarely see foie gras on menus, not an easy item to prepare, but Roland does a spectacular job. With tomato apple jam, bacon and house made brioche, this is a dish to savor. I have often made this my entree.
Curry Mussels – This is the dish she beat Bobby Flay with. Enough said.
Sweet and Spicy Calamari – Calamari is a great appetizer to share and the sweet and sour sauce is the perfect accompaniment. This dish is also gluten free, but you would never know.
Salads
Go for the Chop. Chopped salads are a bit of work, all that chopping and all those ingredients. Let The Perfect Caper do the work for you.
Land And Sea
Moroccan Spiced Lamb – This entree is one of the best lamb dishes I have ever had. The freshness of the lamb, the fingerling potatoes, olives and inventive seasonings make this a dish you won’t forget.
Scallops Two Ways – Chef Roland presents scallops two different ways.
Crabby Scallops (2 or 3) – These scallops are served with jumbo lump crabmeat and yuzu tobiko (flying fish roe). They are accompanied by baby bok choy and forbidden black rice.
Pan Seared Scallops (3 or 4) – This a lighter scallop presentation. This dish is served with sautéed spinach, whipped potatoes, and a brown butter sauce.
Both scallop mains are delicious, and I have a hard time choosing.
Specials
There are often specials added to the extensive menu and they are worth having. The last time we were at The Perfect Caper someone in our group ordered the Southern-Style Fried Chicken and pronounced it the best he ever had, and he is married to a Southern girl.
Desserts
We are often in a group when we go to this restaurant, and dessert is a great time to share. I highly recommend the Chocolate Bread Pudding, but if it seems too heavy after dinner, try the fresh donuts.
Note – This restaurant also offers à la carte entrees. Located at 121 E. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda, FL 33905. That’s Food for Now, By
Ginger Snap
Butternut Squash With Shallots And Sage
An easy, and delicious side dish for your Thanksgiving table
Breaking Down Butternut Squash
Cubed butternut squash is available at the supermarket. The thick shell of a butternut squash can be a pain to deal with, but you can readily prep it at home. Starting with a whole squash is cheaper than buying cubed, and it’s fresher.
Cut off the top and the bulbous bottom with a large, sturdy knife; most of the “meat” lies within the neck of the squash. (You can garner some flesh from the rounded end, but another idea is to seed it, stuff it and bake it.)
Stand the squash neck up on one of the cut ends and slice the skin off in strips, being
The Recipe
Serves 4
2 tablespoons olive oil
If dicing the squash, slice it to the thickness of the dice. Cut the slices into the right-size strips, and then crosswise into the dice.
3 shallots, halved lengthwise, then cut crosswise into 1/4-inch thick slices
1 (1¼-pound) butternut squash, peeled, halved lengthwise, seeded, and cut into ½-inch cubes (4 cups)
1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth or water
1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon finely chopped fresh sage
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• Heat oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over medium heat until it shimmers, then cook shallots and squash, stirring,
• Add broth, brown sugar, sage, and 1/2 teaspoon salt, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, until squash is tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vinegar, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and salt to taste.
Starters
Children’s Advocacy Center Of SWFL
To Kick Off Spirit Of Giving
Holiday Event Planned To Begin Donation Collections For Local Families
parent whose children are seen at CAC in November and December will have the opportunity to select new, unwrapped gifts for their children.
Is It A Legitimate Investment Opportunity Or A Scam?
By Jim Kreidler, Consumer Education Specialist, FTC
The Children’s Advocacy Center of SWFL (CAC) is seeking additional sponsors to join us for the second annual Spirit of Giving event being held on Nov. 11 at the Broadway Palm Dinner Theater in Fort Myers. This event offers sponsors the opportunity to embrace the holiday spirit while supporting the CAC and its clients. The evening will kick off with a CAC hosted mix and mingle where sponsors can come together and connect. Following this gathering, attendees will indulge in a delicious dinner at the Broadway Palm Theater and enjoy the opening night of Elf the Musical – a heartwarming holiday production.
As a sponsor for this event, you will be contributing to the CAC’s holiday programs, which include Thanksgiving in Pine Manor, a toy drive, a holiday community day at the East United Way house and Adopt-A-Family. These initiatives provide support to the CAC clients and their families during the festive season. Additionally, every
“Last year, thanks to the overwhelming generosity of our community, we were able to provide over 2,500 gifts and had 33 families fully ‘adopted’ for the holidays,” Julie Boudreaux, CEO for the CAC of SWFL. “Families continue to struggle financially, and some are still rebuilding after the hurricane. The CAC and the families we serve are incredibly grateful to our sponsors who will help us make the holidays a little brighter for the children.”
If you are interested in becoming a sponsor for the Spirit of Giving event, please reach out to Rachel Peacock at (239) 939-2808 or rpeacock@cac-swfl.org. Your support will help make a difference this holiday season.
About Children’s Advocacy Center Of Southwest Florida
Since 1981, the Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida, Inc. (CAC) has worked to improve the lives of children and their families through a coordinated response to child abuse and neglect, offering them a safe and friendly environment in which to heal. CAC provides abuse determination services, pet therapy, therapeutic counseling, advocacy, parenting education, and prevention programs in Lee, Hendry, Glades and Charlotte counties. All services are provided free of charge. For more information, please call (239) 939-2808 or visit cac-swfl.org. CAC is a United Way Partner Agency.
When you hear about a can’t-miss investment opportunity your first reaction might be to jump right in. Don’t. But how do you tell the difference between a legitimate investment and a scam?
Investment scams create the impression that you can “make lots of money” with “little to no risk.” They often start on social media, online dating apps, or from an unexpected text, email, or call.
Here’s what to know:
Don’t accept any unsolicited offers. If you get an out-of-the-blue call, text, or email about “an amazing investment opportunity,” it’s a scam. Walk away.
Don’t believe promises that you’ll make money or earn guaranteed returns. No one can guarantee you’ll make lots of money with little to no risk. Anyone who does is a scammer.
Reject the high-pressure pitch. Scammers will often pressure you to act fast, saying that you’ll miss the opportunity if you fail to do so. They try to plant an image in your head of what life will be like when you’re rich. Don’t believe it. Legitimate investments let you take the time you need to investigate before spending any money. Do your own research. Don’t make any investment until you’ve checked it out and fully understand what you’re investing in, and the terms of the deal. Research the investment and the person offering it. Search online for the name of the company plus “review,” “complaint,” or “scam.”
You may be able to spot a scam, but chances are, you know someone who doesn’t. Sharing what you know could help a family member, colleague, service member, or a veteran in your life avoid investment scams. Spotted a scam? Report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Fort Myers Camera Club
Resumes Bimonthly Meetings
Submitted by Carol Heffernan
Photographers at all levels of ability throughout Lee County are invited to the regular bimonthly meetings of the Fort Myers Camera Club. Meetings are held the first and third Wednesday each month (from Nov. 1 to April 3) from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Meetings are held at the All Faiths Church, 2736 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Annual dues for membership are $30. Novices are welcome and mentoring is available. Various speakers at the meetings cover topics such as critiquing, competition and instruction.
See the ftmyerscc.com website or email carolheff23@ gmail.com for additional information about the camera club.
2023 Festival Of Trees
Thursday, Nov. 30 Through Sunday, Dec. 3
The 17th Annual Festival of Trees returns to the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center (SBDAC)! Experience the beautiful trees decorated by local business to raise money for Goodwill of Southwest Florida and SBDAC. See these gorgeous creations beginning for just $2 per person, beginning on Nov. 30.
From The Desk Of Sheriff Carmine Marceno
Pedestrian Safety
View trees, vote, and buy raffle tickets to win a tree! Raffle tickets: $10; 3 for $25; 10 for $50; 25 for $100. Festival Of Trees Viewing Times
Thursday, Nov. 30 – 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 1 – 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 2 – 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 3 – 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
2023 Festival Of Trees Event Information
Preview Party: Wednesday, Nov. 29, 6 To 8 p.m.
Come be one of the first to see the beautifully decorated trees for the 17th Annual Festival of Trees! You are cordially invited to attend the official Festival of Trees Preview Party on Wednesday, Nov. 29 from 6 to 8 p.m.
Delectable hors d’oeuvres will be served alongside a cash bar. Check out all the goodies under the trees and pick your favorite while enjoying cheery holiday music! Only $50 per person!
Love the trees and all the presents beneath them? You can’t buy one, but you can try to win one! The first of the raffle tickets will be available to purchase during the Preview Party!
Wreath Lighting Featuring Rosaline: Friday, Dec. 1, 6 To 10 p.m.
Another beautiful holiday tradition bringing Christmas to the River District.
At 7 p.m. join the mayor and Santa as they lead the stroll down First Street to the Art Center to light the giant wreath and pick the winner of the Mayor’s Choice tree at the festival. Rosaline will be playing from 7:30 to 10 p.m. and is a free concert. Some chairs will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own.
Santa’s Block Party: Saturday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m. To 2 p.m.
Join Santa for fun, food, and holiday festivities! Santa’s Block Party offers workshops including many fun holiday activities for children to enjoy with cookie decorating, a train ride, and many different kinds of arts and crafts. Kids Workshop bags will be available to purchase during the event. $6 a bag.
Several different performances will be happening throughout the day. Touch a Firetruck and hang out with the Fort Myers Fire Department’s mascot, Sparky the Dog! Scoops on First will have their amazing ice cream available for purchase.
Catch A Live Band (To Be Determined): Saturday, Dec. 2, 7:30 To 9:30 p.m.
Come enjoy the free concert on the front steps! Tree Raffle Drawing: Sunday, Dec. 3, 5 p.m.
Our county is growing and, with that growth comes an increase in the number of vehicles, more pedestrians, additional cyclists, and construction to alter, repair and improve roadways.
All of the aforementioned variables are capable of compromising pedestrian safety … especially for children walking to and from school and/or bus stops. As part of my “Safe Kids, Safe Schools” initiative, a safe walk to school, and back home later in the day, is a nonnegotiable component.
Everyone is seemingly rushing to get somewhere … school, work, appointments. All too many of us have our eyes focused on our cellular devices, have headphones/ earphones and are simply not paying appropriate attention to all that is occurring around them.
While most reading this message are adults, we believe that our many years of street crossing and neighborhood walking makes us immune to these types of accidents.
This couldn’t be farther from the truth.
Let’s begin by remaining alert. If there is no sidewalk, please walk on the left side of the road facing traffic. Walk as far from the roadway as possible and reasonable.
Stop signs and red lights do not guarantee that a vehicle will stop. Do not assume that a vehicle will abide by traffic laws/signs. Attempt to make eye contact with the driver and, in an abundance of safety, always yield to oncoming vehicles.
Exit vehicles, whenever possible, from the passenger side.
Pedestrians and cyclists should exercise additional caution in areas of road construction as traffic patterns change during the course of the construction and drivers may become confused or disoriented.
Crossing major roadways can be perilous. Vehicles are moving at higher speeds, may have blind spots created by large trucks and, when turning, may not see a pedestrian jutting out from behind a parked vehicle or landscaping. These hazards increase exponentially during the dark of night.
Time spent discussing these matters with schoolaged children is time well spent. While they may feel insulted when you broach this subject as they are “grown up” and “know how to cross a street,” please remind them that even adults are susceptible to these sorts of tragedies.
“Season” will soon be upon us; more people, more vehicles, more congestion. Let’s all be alert and cautious as we approach the holiday season.
Also come for the one night only silent auction! Winners take their prizes home at the end of the evening. Proceeds go toward programs for SBDAC and Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida.
Wine And Paint: Thursday, Nov. 30, 6 To 9 p.m.
’Tis the season to get creative with one of our favorite local artists, Dharma Lefevre! This talented and quirky elf is going to show you how to create a gorgeous wintery landscape in acrylic. This is not like other paint parties. Dharma will be teaching color theory, how to translate landscapes and simplify what you see to produce scenery with depth and soul! Dharma is a self-taught local artist; she has had various solo, and group shows and has worked on both charity and live painting for local events … and did we mention she’s a ton of fun! She can’t wait to create alongside of you!
Each artist will be supplied with canvas, paint, paint brushes, and of course … wine.
Tickets: $45
Proceeds benefit the Southwest Florida Goodwill Foundation, 5100 Tice St., Fort Myers, FL 33905, and the Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center.
Winner selection to be held via random drawing on Sunday, Dec. 3 at 5 p.m. Each Festival of Trees raffle winner will receive one of the fully decorated raffle trees, each valued at a minimum of $500.
Each prize tree will have a separate raffle entry box which corresponds to that prize tree only. Prize selection is determined by the ticket holder by depositing entry ticket in the selected tree’s entry box. Prize selection cannot be changed once raffle entry ticket has been deposited. Prizes are provided by the Southwest Florida Goodwill Foundation and in-kind tree sponsors.
Operation Christmas Child
It’s Shoebox Time!
Operation Christmas Child delivers great joy to children in need around the world through gift-filled shoeboxes. Each box packed full of quality toys, school supplies, and personal care items, becomes a tangible expression of God’s immense love for the child. For many, it is their first gift ever! Delivered by our local church partners, shoebox gifts provide an opportunity to present the Gospel to boys and girls in a clear, child-friendly way. Find A Shoebox
Start with an average-size cardboard or plastic shoebox. If you want to wrap it, cover the box and lid separately. You can use your own shoeboxes or order our colorful preprinted ones, available in both cardboard and plastic. These sturdy options hold up well and can be lasting gifts in themselves for children to store cherished items. Boxes can be purchased on our website, www. samaritanspurse.org/what-we-do/operation-christmas-child.
Get Your Label
Visit our label options page to find out whether an adhesive or printable label is best for you. Whichever
you choose, use the label to indicate on your shoebox whether it was packed for a boy or girl and which age category: Ages 2 to 4; 5 to 9; or 10 to 14.
Fill With Gifts
Select a medium to large “wow” item such as a soccer ball with pump, clothing outfit or stuffed animal, then fill with other fun toys, hygiene items, and school supplies that will capture the child’s attention the instant he or she opens the box. Don’t forget to also include a personal note and photo – sometimes these are the child’s favorite things to receive!
Do not include candy; toothpaste; gum; used or damaged items; scary or war-related items such as toy guns, knives, or military figures; chocolate or food; seeds; fruit rolls or other fruit snacks; drink mixes (powdered or liquid); liquids or lotions; medications or vitamins; breakable items such as snow globes or glass containers; aerosol cans.
Donate $10 Per Shoebox
A donation of $10 per box is critical to cover shipping and other project costs. For easiest processing, you can give online through our label options or “ways to give” pages, or by mailing a check in the postage-paid envelope available in our print brochure. If you use an online option on the labels page, you can follow your box and discover the destination of your gift.
Drop Off
Every year, National Collection Week takes place on the third week in November when more than 4,500 drop-off locations are open across the country. Take your shoebox gift to a local drop-off location during National Collection Week, Nov. 13 to 20. Drop-off locations will be updated mid-October, so please check back then for local drop-off locations.
Build A Shoebox Online
Shoebox gifts built online go to the ends of the earth to children in some of the hardest-to-reach places – whether deep jungles, city slums, steep mountainsides, or one of 1,000 remote Pacific islands. Many of these areas are resistant to the Gospel, for cultural or religious reasons, and are home to numerous unreached people groups.
When you build a shoebox online, it provides believers in remote regions a creative way to share the Good News in a culturally sensitive manner. Online boxes are carefully prepared, abiding by strict customs regulations to safeguard partners who will deliver the gifts, as well as the boys and girls who receive them!
For more information on how to pack your “online” shoebox, please visit www.samaritanspurse.org/ operation-christmas-child/buildonline.
Kathy & George Enguita
