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Gulf Harbour Book Club Review
JOAN KAPLAN
The Gulf Harbour Book Club met on October 6 to discuss Jane Yang’s The Lotus Shoes. There were 32 of us in attendance in person and via Zoom.
Linda Rosalanko did a fabulous job on presenting Jane’s bio.
Jane fell in love with historical fiction when she discovered Pride and Prejudice in eighth grade and has never looked back. Born in a Chinese enclave of Saigon, and raised in Australia, Jane grew up on a diet of ancestral stories and superstition. Despite establishing a scientific career, first as a pharmacist and later in clinical research, she is still sometimes torn between modern, rational thinking and the pull of old beliefs, like the supernatural. Jane’s family tales are an inspiration for her writing. She writes stories about women in pre-Communist China, exploring power and class struggles, and sometimes with a dash of suspense, spirits and hauntings. This is Jane’s debut novel.
In Vietnam, her parents owned a flourishing small business: life was comfortable. At 44, Dad had little incentive to start over in another country, but Mum wanted her children to grow up in a democracy. As always, Dad indulged her. With the Vietnamese dong being so low in relative value, Dad sold everything we owned to pay for our airfares to Australia. Once here, Dad
labored the rest of his working years in a die-casting factory while Mum sewed garments for as little as 50 cents apiece.
Both of my grandmothers were storytellers. From my Maa Maa, my paternal grandmother, I learned about foot binding.
My maternal grandmother, Po Po, loathed the patriarchy and longed to take the sor hei vows and join a celibate sisterhood. This phenomenal feminist movement is central to the second half of The Lotus Shoes.
Since I was 15, I’ve been a huge fan of historical fiction. I still remember the day I found a tattered copy of Pride and Prejudice in my school library. I found it relatively easy to inhabit my characters’ worldview. Let’s take beauty and status as an example. The vast majority of women have always strived to adopt the beauty norms of their time. Tudor ladies whitened their faces with poisonous lead paint, while their Victorian counterparts practiced tight lacing. Today, Botox and fillers are all the rage. Bound feet are, of course, perhaps the most
extreme form of body modification in the name of beauty, but Little Flower and Linjing’s struggles are familiar and relatable. Like us, they crave acceptance and admiration.
Jane has a husband and three children. She started The Lotus Shoes when she was pregnant with her first child, he is now 13! She has a wonderful husband who always encouraged her to write this book. Jane has now written another book due out in 2027. We will be in touch to invite her back.
The following review was written by Jane Yang for The Book Reporter. We could not have done a better job.
“In The Lotus Shoes, an engrossing novel of old China set in the late 1800s, Jane Yang recounts the sometimestragic lives of girls and women at a time when females were undervalued. Little Flower’s father died when she was six, and her mother was forced to sell her as a slave to a wealthy family so that her brother wouldn’t starve to death. She was to be a maidservant to Linjing, the daughter of the family, who was the same age as her.
At that time in China, upper-class women had their feet bound at an early age so that their feet would be tiny. Girls with big feet were considered peasants, low class
and unable to marry anyone but another peasant. Having tiny feet was considered a sign of good taste, intelligence and a fine upbringing. So when Linjing’s father asks that her feet not be bound, it’s because he wants her to be betrothed to a boy whose father is looking for a girl with unbound feet. This man is an important politician, and he’s had business dealings with Westerners who thought feet-binding was primitive.
“[T]he novel as a whole is breathtakingly powerful. The images of old China and the cruel culture of abusing women are concepts that will remain on readers’ minds long after the book is back on the shelf.”
But no upper-class family would agree not to bind their daughter’s feet because of the insidiousness of the tradition. Linjing’s father convinces her mother, Lady Fong, to agree, but Linjing is devastated. This spoiled child is furious that Little Flower has bound feet and insists that her feet be unbound. Little Flower’s mother had drilled into her that under no circumstances should she quit binding her feet, and she instilled in her the importance of having bound feet in order to make a good marriage. Even as a slave, when she turned 18, Lady Fong had agreed to find Little Flower a husband.
Linjing gets her way, and Little Flower’s feet are unbound, leaving her not only with big feet, but with feet that are horribly deformed from two years of binding. She is also terribly jealous of Little Flower’s incredible talent for embroidery. Linjing is color blind, and while it’s no fault of hers, she’s chastised and ridiculed for her inability
to create beautiful images with silk thread. Little Flower’s skills are unsurpassed, and in a culture that believes only those with “lotus” feet – tiny bound feet – have the delicate and superior capability of creating lovely embroidery, that makes her special.
The book is both touching and incredibly difficult to read as we witness, through Yang’s evocative, descriptive narrative, the deprivations and privations that Little Flower undergoes. The treatment of women as a whole is appalling, as is the complete lack of compassion and kindness we see in the matriarch of the Fong family, who rules with an iron fist. All live in fear of her. Her son’s first wife and his minor wives are forced to do her bidding in an effort to keep her from punishing them.
On a grander scale, we learn about the fragility of a woman’s existence in China at that time. Females had no rights, and even those from a good family would only gain power by becoming a first wife and then the mother of a son. If a woman could not produce a son, she could be divorced and left to die in the streets.
The Lotus Shoes focuses on the relationship between Linjing and Little Flower as their fates become entwined. Little Flower is determined to free herself from slavery, and Linjing wants to deny Little Flower her freedom. Both have strong personalities, but because of her status, Linjing has more power. The story is engrossing, and we come to care
about Little Flower as she is dealt one blow after another. Her determination and intellect serve her well, but one girl cannot stand against an intransigent culture like that of China at that time.
Is the ending a bit too pat? Perhaps. But that’s a negligible criticism when the novel as a whole is breathtakingly powerful. The images of old China and the cruel culture of abusing women are concepts that will remain on readers’ minds long after the book is back on the shelf. I have been to China, and there is much beauty there, but I wish I had read more books like this one before my visit. It would have made me more aware of the horrors that women endured just 100 years ago.
The Gulf Harbour Book Club meets on the first Monday of each month in the Fitness Center. If you want to join the book club email joankaplan@mac.com. Zoom is available for members if the author allows it. We had nine authors lined up for the 2025/26 season. We already had Kristen Harmel and now Jane Yang. We have the following authors on Zoom. November is Abi Dare’s The Girl with the Louding Voice and its sequel And So I Roar, December is Not Yours to Keep by Zelly Ruskin, January is Bernhardt Schlinke for The Granddaughter, March is Sandi Altner for Rupert’s Landing, April is Chris Torockio for The Soul Hunters and May is Stephanie Dray for A Founding Mother.
Clubhouse Renovation Project: Update #15
TWO WEEKS OF PROGRESS
Dear Valued Members,
As promised, we continue our biweekly updates on the exciting transformation of our clubhouse. While progress remains steady, there are moments where some elements move forward quickly, and others experience natural delays. This is one of those times where the pace may feel slower, but important groundwork is still being laid to ensure success.
Originally, we had reported that the west and marina-facing walls would have already come down. That milestone has been slightly delayed due to additional time needed by the shoring engineer and subsequent inspections. These steps, while less visible, are critical to ensuring structural stability and overall safety as demolition continues.
Meanwhile, site work has advanced in other areas. The hot tub and its equipment have now been fully removed, clearing the way for future enhancements. Progress has also continued on relocating utilities, though some challenges have arisen. Specifically,
transferring water from the Marina side of the building back to the parking lot storm drains has required additional engineering, as a 20-foot-plus excavation would otherwise be necessary. This complex task highlights the careful planning that underpins each step.
We are pleased to share that the pool equipment relocation is nearly complete. Florida Power & Light (FPL) is scheduled to provide a disconnect on October 9, and following this, we anticipate reopening the pool and Tiki area by mid-October. This will be a welcome step for all members eager to once again enjoy those amenities.
Additionally, Teco Gas is on site this week installing a new line for the gas heaters for the new pool equipment, ensuring future efficiency and reliability
for our systems. These improvements, though behind the scenes, will bring long-term benefits to the overall operation of the clubhouse.
Inside the building, both of the old elevators have now been demolished. On the roof, the mechanical HVAC team has laid out equipment, marking an important step in preparing for the new systems. While these changes may not yet translate to visible transformation, they form the backbone of the renewed clubhouse.
Looking outward, members should also note that Stokes Marine will begin the rip rap project on Eagle Perch Island in mid-October. This work will run for approximately six weeks and is intended
to strengthen and protect the shoreline. We encourage all members to exercise caution when walking, exercising, or enjoying leisure time in the area during this construction period.
Jesse plans to operate the Golf Course beverage cart out on the island for sunset each day during this phase. We hope members take advantage of this thoughtful touch to enjoy the setting even as the clubhouse work progresses.
With the building now fully skinned, our engineering and design partners, including Peacock + Lewis, Curran & Young, and their teams, are revising drawings based on the realities uncovered during demolition. These refinements will allow us to accommodate new additions seamlessly while maintaining efficiency and
budget discipline. It is an excellent example of collaboration in action.
At our October 1, 2025 biweekly meeting, the renovation delays at the clubhouse were our primary focus. We dedicated most of our time to looking closely at the construction schedule, identifying where time has been lost, and discussing the best ways to recover those temporary delays. In large building projects like this, even small delays can affect what is known as the “critical path”—the sequence of tasks that determines the overall completion date of each area.
Nationally recognized construction research shows that the most effective recovery efforts include strategies such as re-sequencing certain tasks, adding extra work shifts, and finding opportunities to fast-track activities where it is safe and feasible. We also know that delays can quickly ripple into other challenges if not addressed—rising costs, coordination issues, and frustration among those waiting for the finished space. That’s why the committee is taking a proactive approach. We are working closely with contractors and vendors to tighten communication, monitor progress more frequently, and look for every reasonable opportunity to move forward efficiently. Our goal
is to minimize the impact of these setbacks and ensure that the clubhouse renovation can still be completed to a high standard, while keeping members informed every step of the way.
We are deeply grateful to those who have generously volunteered their time and expertise to make this project possible. While these members are not seeking recognition or a pat on the back, it is important to acknowledge that without their dedication, we could not have moved this project forward. From the original construction and design committees to the current construction team, their commitment has been the backbone of our progress. Special thanks go to Doug Glover and his Gulf Harbour team—Jim Spangler, Michael Sklorenko, Mark Walsh—and to our diligent quality
control manager, Milton, for their tireless efforts and leadership. Their contributions have been invaluable and are sincerely appreciated.
I know I’ve thanked the Marina Condo Association many times for their neighborly gestures, but I don’t want to forget the incredible partnership we’ve had with the Master Association as well. Every time we’ve asked for support, the answer has always been YES! Whether it was help with gate access, providing extra parking, holding off on projects until ours were completed, letting us work on Saturdays, early deliveries and countless other requests.
This kind of cooperation doesn’t always happen in every community, and we are truly fortunate.
So, a great big THANK YOU to the Master Association Board and to Suitor, Middleton & Cox for their continued support and collaboration.
On that note, it’s important to address the latest rumor circulating among members, that the project team is not getting along. Let us assure you, this could not be further from the truth. Renovations naturally inspire differences of opinion and spirited discussions, but every single party – Gulf Harbour, Curran & Young, Peacock + Lewis, all engineering firms, and contractors – are united in the shared goal of delivering a stunning clubhouse on time and within budget. Debate and collaboration are hallmarks of great projects, and the synergy here is strong.
In closing, while the past two weeks may feel slower in visible progress, much has been achieved behind the scenes. With FPL, Teco Gas, and Stokes Marine all scheduled in the coming weeks, momentum will continue to build. As always, we thank you for your patience, trust, and enthusiasm. Each day brings us closer to the majestic new clubhouse we are all excited to unveil.
Until next time—patience and progress!
Lonnie
Continental Women’s Club
The Continental Women’s Club will hold its monthly luncheon meeting on Thursday, Dec. 11 at 11:30 a.m. Our program will feature a presentation about the Gulf Coast Humane Society’s Silver Paws VIP Program. This program is all about giving senior pets that are adopted from the shelter the second chance they deserve and is open to seniors 65 years of age and older, including those living in assisted living facilities. The goal is to help senior pets (ages 7 and up) find their way into warm, loving environments – whether through permanent adoption or temporary fostering.
The meetings are being held at The Hideaway Country Club, 5670 Trailwinds Drive, Fort Myers 33907. The cost to attend the luncheon is $28. Please call Liz Paul at (239) 691-7561 by the deadline of Tuesday, Dec. 2 for meal selection and to make a reservation.
Continental Women’s Club is a social, cultural, and philanthropic organization established in 1975, with membership open to women living in Lee County. We have many special events and interest groups within our club that you can participate in for social and educational purposes throughout the month and the year. In addition, we contribute to many local charities and award two scholarships each year to senior high school girls who plan on furthering their education.
Crossword Puzzle
Got together
American Medical Association
Argues
An uncle
Approaching
Any thing
A claim of rights 25. Leg joint 26. Play parts
Split
Indian dress
Gooey stuff
Monarch
Rumor mill
Detest
Provided with food
Letters and postcards
Luxurious
Category
Shooting sport DOWN
Endurance
Director
Finish
Ancient
Was a passenger
Thin layers of rock
A group of concubines
Smears
“Oh dear!”
Frosts, as a cake
Rear end
Pale
Plaudits
Large
Personified
Illusion
Algae
Before, in poetry
Mislead
Timber
Notices
Financial institutions
Conflict site
Arm muscle
Summit
Problem
26. Food thickener 27. Hurry on foot 30. Disposes 32. Fish eggs
33. Contrariwise 34. Ablaze
35. Squishy seat
38. Aviation station
39. Perception 40. Feudal lord
42. Give in 44. Dazzles
45. More aloof
48. Gulf port
49. Little devils
50. Comes from cows
53. Anagram of “woe”
55. Regret
Montage Women’s Club
The Montage Women’s Club is a social and philanthropic club open to all women residing in Lee County. We normally meet on the fourth Thursday of each month. Our August meeting took place at the Hilton Garden Inn (Captiva Ballroom), 12600 University Drive, Fort Myers 33908, on the corner of College Parkway at the Summerlin Road overpass. Meetings begin at 11:30 a.m. with a short social period followed by lunch at noon followed by an informative speaker program and a short business meeting. Within the organization are various interest groups for members’ participation. Membership is open to both year-round and seasonal residents. We welcome you to visit Montage for a luncheon.
Our next meeting will be held on Thursday, Nov. 20 (a week early due to Thanksgiving holiday). Our speaker will be Pete Corradino from Everglades Day
Safari. Pete will be sharing his knowledge of the ecosystem in the Everglades and the tours he operates.
Luncheon fee is $30 per person, the November main entree option will be a traditional turkey meal with mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie. The vegan option will be a stuffed bell pepper with quinoa and black beans with fresh fruit for dessert.
If you would like to attend a Montage meeting, need further information, or would like to make a reservation, please call Rita Artwohl at (239) 7037787. Reservations cutoff to attend this meeting is noon, Thursday, Nov. 13.
Art And Music Lively Fun Walks
If you are looking for some great entertainment on a Friday evening, look no further than the Art Walk and Music Walk which happen monthly from 6 to 10 p.m. in the downtown River District.
On the first Friday of each month, the Art Walk fills First Street with exhibits of local and regional artists exhibiting their unique art styles. Enjoy the displays and chat with the artists. You just may find that piece of art you’ve been looking for or didn’t even know you needed!
If it’s music you like, join Music Walk on the third Friday of each month. You will hear jazz, blues, rock and roll, and you can dance in the streets if you care. Enjoy local and regional groups doing what they do best—playing their original songs and old favorites as well. These Friday evenings are great fun and the music really rocks!
Catch The Action
CAPT. BILL RUSSELL
NOVEMBER ON THE WATER
This month we have days with pleasant weather and often combine summer and winter fishing conditions from week to week. As cool fronts drop down the state our coastal waters are cooling down. With the change, fish are transitioning from summer to winter patterns. November brings a mix of warm and cool weather.
Fishing for sea trout is a great option as the weather cools as they’re often plentiful and feeding on small baitfish. As we near the end of the month and water temperature continues to drop, shrimp and shrimp-type artificial lures become the top baits as smaller baitfish become scarce. As we switch to
shrimp, pompano catches increase as they feed on crustaceans and mollusks. Small bucktail and pompano-style jigs work great when slowly bounced across a sandy bottom. When under power, if you notice one or several silver fish skip off your wake, it is most likely pompano. Not sure why they do it, but it’s a great way to locate them, and they run in schools. Circle back around and fish the area and you’re often rewarded.
It can be a great time for targeting redfish and snook if it doesn’t get too cold too quick. Redfish can tolerate a sudden drop in temperature, but snook not so much. Snook are on the move from their summer homes around the beaches and relocating throughout the inshore waters. If it remains relatively warm, they are feeding over inshore flats, oyster bars, shorelines, and sand holes. If it turns cold quickly, they will seek shelter from the cold in protected areas like canals, rivers, and shorelines with deep water. It’s still a little early in the season for hard cold fronts but they are possible.
Schools of redfish that prowled the inshore waters over the last few months move offshore or break up. It’s possible to run into a school, but most reds will be in pairs or small bunches. Look for reds tailing over shallow flats on the lowest tides and in the same areas as previously mentioned for snook. Snook, redfish, and large sea trout are often caught together.
Spanish mackerel, bluefish, small sharks, ladyfish, and jack crevalle are foraging on bait schools inshore and off the beaches. A short distance offshore bait pods get harassed by both Spanish and king mackerel, plus bonito, and an occasional blackfin tuna. Expect some big sharks and possibly tarpon and cobia hanging around the feeding activity as well.
As the month wears on and the water gets cooler, sheepsheads are on the move and hold up around structure in nearshore gulf waters and inshore. Fish them inshore along the beaches and passes, and around deeper oyster bars, creeks, and docks or bridges.
The first run of sheepsheads generally shows on nearshore reefs and hard bottom or ledges. Nearshore reefs are a good place to run into everything from tasty snapper to giant goliath grouper.
Coordinates for all man-made artificial reefs are available to the public and make a great day trip on a calm day. Some of the most productive reefs are well within sight of land in 30- to 50-foot depths. Also, keep an eye out for tripletail hanging just under the surface around floating debris and buoys.
As the busy season kicks in, our weather is often great. On the water is a great way to spend time away from the crowds and catch a fish or two.
Keep up to date with fishing regulations by visiting Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission at www. myfwc.com . Also, upload the Fish Rules app on your phone. It has current regulations with pictures to help identify fish.
For charter information, please contact us at Gulf Coast Guide Service and “Catch the Action” with Capt. Bill Russell, call or text (239) 410-8576, website: www.fishpineisland.com, email: gcl2fish@live.com.
Capt. Bill Russell is a native and lifelong resident of Pine Island who has spent his entire life fishing the waters surrounding Pine Island and Southwest Florida. For the past 29 years, Bill has been a professional fishing guide who takes pride in customizing each trip to ensure everyone on board has a great time and will return again. Come join us and “Catch the Action.”
The Solidago Solution
KAREN M. MAXWELL, HORTICULTURE DIRECTOR AT EDISON AND FORD WINTER ESTATES
Visitors that stroll around the east side of the Estates will find the fall bloomer, goldenrod (Solidago). This simple, omnipresent “weed” became Thomas Edison’s obsession later in life, literally, until the day he died.
In the northern hemisphere, the arrival of autumn showcases 120 species of goldenrod, responsible for turning fields and hillsides into brilliantly sunny landscapes – and it is the adaptability, varieties and accessibility of the Solidago species that gave rise to some of Edison’s most devoted research. From the most common wreath goldenrod or blue-stemmed goldenrod (Solidago caesia) to the threatened Culter’s alpine goldenrod (Solidago leiocarpa), there is a goldenrod found in each state. The versatile goldenrod grows tall, short, multibranched, single-stemmed and is found in most habitats from xeric to hydric.
Edison and his compatriots, Harvey Firestone and Henry Ford, sought to ensure that America would not be dependent on rubber sourced overseas and goldenrod rose to the top of the list of 17,000 botanical candidates. In 1927, to the dismay of his wife Mina, Thomas had extensive rows of grapefruit and orange trees removed from the east side of the property (museum side) and replaced with goldenrod plants. The swift transition from an estate-like atmosphere to one full of disorderly looking grow beds, markers, and irrigation ditches did little to engage her enthusiasm for his renowned experiment.
The next year, the trio formed the Edison Botanic Research Corporation (EBRC) and built a lab on the Fort Myers estate. The new laboratory was designed by the Fort Myers architect Nat Gaillard Walker who also designed Edison’s riverside office, Mina’s teahouse, and the Moonlight Garden trellis enclosure. By 1929, Edison was growing orange trumpet vine (Pyrostegia venusta) a sun-loving, aggressive vine that grows to 30 feet tall, using sturdier goldenrod species as a support for the vines with the idea that they would be harvested together for rubber extraction.
Exhaustive research notes, most preserved in Edison’s own handwriting, detail his trials and tribulations with many species that were collected around the country and delivered to the Fort Myers laboratory and research beds. His team of collectors submitted several species for experiments trying to perfect Edison’s stated goal of a “good goldenrod,” which needed to yield 1,500 pounds of rubber per acre. One sample, found in Titusville, Fla., grew to 12 feet tall. As the fervor around his goldenrod experiment grew, 1929 saw Edison’s longest visit to Fort Myers – that year he stayed to work at the EBRC until mid-June. He further decided to halt the import of foreign goldenrod seeds, determining that the key to success was surely in one of the species found in the United States.
THERE ARE 120 SPECIES OF GOLDENROD IN THE NORTHERN HEMISPHERE; THOMAS EDISON TESTED MORE THAN 50 VARIETIES WHILE WORKING ON HIS RUBBER RESEARCH PROJECT. OF THE MORE THAN 17,000 PLANTS THAT HE TESTED, GOLDENROD WAS FOUND TO HAVE THE HIGHEST PERCENTAGE OF LATEX.
Testing more than 50 varieties of goldenrod, numerous ficus trees and a variety of euphorbias, the area beyond the banyan was described as a rubber plantation in the local press. Every state in the United States, has its own native species of Solidago , and some have several. The plant easily hybridizes, as Edison discovered. This herbaceous perennial is a keystone species – meaning it is among the first plants to reappear after a
natural disaster. As it quickly revegetates disturbed areas, it also serves to stabilize soil with its robust root system to prevent further erosion following fire or flood.
A member of the Asteraceae family, Solidago roughly translates to “make whole” due to its curative properties employed by early cultures. Typically, a late season bloomer, the plant is invaluable
as a nectar source for a variety of butterflies, bees, wasps, and moths. The plumes make a great addition to any autumn floral arrangement either as a filler or for its cheerful yellow color.
Often blamed by hay fever sufferers for aggravating allergies, goldenrod is insect pollinated, where the real culprit, ragweed, is wind pollinated – right up into your nose! To distinguish, the leaves of ragweed are deeply lobed with an almost fernlike appearance, while goldenrod has lance shaped leaves known as entire, or smooth edge. Clearly visible on a sunflower ( Helianthus ), also a member of the Asteraceae family, those flowers are a composite head known as a capitulum.
Late in the summer of 1929, after Edison had returned to New Jersey from Fort Myers, a plant scout reported a goldenrod Solidago leavenworthii (Leavenworth’s Goldenrod) was found growing in 6 inches of water in a cypress swamp. Known as E.P.C. #573, 336 samples were removed from the discovery site and delivered to Edison’s Fort Myers experimental beds. The next month, another 6,000 samples were extracted and Edison asked they be delivered to New Jersey where he had taken ill. Soon, it was the only species of Solidago under cultivation for Edison’s experiment.
News of the “Solidago Solution” soon reached the press. Having to report back to the press that this experiment did not produce the desired results, Edison then became more reticent when probed about his rubber experiments. Unfortunately,
the hurricane of 1929 destroyed many rubber research trees including ficus, eucalyptus and manihot and most of the labels of Edison’s test beds went with the hurricane winds. Following cleanup, a one-acre plot of the S. leavenworthii was replanted. Edison then offered a $25 bonus (approximately $500 today) to anyone who could find a goldenrod that would yield more than 5% rubber.
For the very reason that goldenrod is a keystone plant, re-establishing quickly after a natural disaster, two hybrids of the S. leavenworthii – namely altissima (the tallest species) and fistulosa (Pine Barren Goldenrod), multiplied from the original 100 plants to nearly 700!
In October of 1931, excited staff brought the first vulcanized rubber sample (when the raw rubber undergoes a chemical process that turns it into a durable product) up to Edison in New Jersey. He passed away several days later. It would be written that Mina believed her husband’s anxiety to find a viable rubber source contributed to his poor health.
Following the great inventor’s death, work continued at the EBRC. One hybrid that grew to a whopping 14 feet tall, was later named Solidago
MOST GOLDENRODS BLOOM IN THE FALL WHEN ASTERS BLOOM, CREATING A BEAUTIFUL SEA OF GOLD AND PURPLE.
edisoniana , (syn. S. latissimifolia ) or Giant Goldenrod and though it yielded 12% rubber, it lost too many leaves in the process. Earlier, Edison concluded that the weight of the leaves was a good indication of the plant’s potential rubber yield. In 1932, the sample identified as #EPC 573, the original S. leavenworthii , yielded 9.69% rubber content.
By 1933, two acres of goldenrod were planted in 13 plots, each 160 feet by 120 feet where the 6- to-8-foot plants created a sea of gold, though all that glitters is not gold. Solidago ‘bicolor / Silverod’ is a white goldenrod found exclusively in the Eastern U.S. Efforts
for a natural rubber source in the U.S. became irrelevant with the invention of synthetic rubber in 1941.
The museum store at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates sells several books that cover this important research in much greater detail. It’s a fascinating journey for any botanical enthusiast.
For anyone wanting to learn more about gardening, several classes focusing on different topics are taught throughout the year at the Estates. See the website calendar for class dates and details at EdisonFord.org.
CROSSWORD SOLUTION
Seabreeze Communications Expands In Weston And South Miami-Dade With Launch Of Two Community News Sites
Seabreeze Communications is excited to announce the upcoming launch of WestonTogether.com, created in partnership with the Weston Chamber of Commerce, and SouthDadeSpotlight.com, developed in collaboration with the South Dade Chamber of Commerce.
Both platforms are designed to bring local news, events, and stories directly to residents, businesses, and visitors. Each site will feature a monthly digital
magazine, event calendar, and neighborhood stories that highlight the people and places that make each area unique.
“These new sites reflect our mission to connect communities through accessible, high-quality local media,” said Stephen Miller, president of Seabreeze Communications. “We’re proud to work alongside both Chambers of Commerce to celebrate their cities and support local businesses.”
Both Weston Together and South Dade Spotlight are set to go live January 2026.
To subscribe for updates and digital magazine releases from Weston Together or South Dade Spotlight, visit SeabreezeCommunications.com .
For advertising, partnership, or community story inquiries, contact Sales@seabreezecommunications.com .
These new sites reflect our mission to connect communities through accessible, high-quality local media
From The Desk Of Sheriff Carmine Marceno...
REMAINING ALERT DURING THE HOLIDAYS
It’s that time of year! Lee County population swells with guests and tourists. Our restaurants and retail stores are brimming with activity, with shoppers and long lines.
While many of us have visions of sugar plums dancing in our heads, there are others with less pleasant thoughts … criminals and thieves.
When out dining or shopping … please avoid complacency.
While we are out and about enjoying the season and each other’s company, less scrupulous individuals are watching and waiting for their victims to become inattentive and vulnerable.
Thieves make their moves when you are not focused on your purse, your wallet, your shopping bags, your cell phone. Their criminal partners may even cause a distraction … bumping into you, asking directions or posing a question, making a loud noise that attracts your
immediate attention. When occupied or looking in another direction, one is additionally vulnerable.
Purses left hanging from the back of restaurant seats or left in unattended shopping carts are extremely susceptible to theft. Place handbags on your lap or between your feet while dining. Never leave your bag open or in the shopping cart child seat. Inevitably, you will reach for an item on a shelf, compare prices or search for a particular product. In those brief moments, your purse is accessible to thieves.
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or utilizing ATMs alone during the evening hours and/or in poorly lit areas. Be certain that you are not being followed when departing from ATMs.
Lastly, do not leave purchases, firearms or other valuables unattended or in plain sight in parked vehicles. Thieves scour parking lots looking for valuables and removing them takes mere seconds.
The Lee County Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols and added significant resources throughout the county for the holiday season.
Let us all be careful and aware and have a wonderful holiday season!
34th Annual Christmas Carol Sing To Help Community Cooperative Feed The Hungry
Celebrate the holidays and help feed the hungry by singing at the 34th Annual Christmas Carol Sing sponsored by the Galloway Family of Dealerships and Susan Bennett Marketing & Media, L.C.
The Christmas Carol Sing will be Saturday, Dec. 6, at First Presbyterian Church, 2438 Second St. in downtown Fort Myers, between Lee Street and Royal Palm Avenue.
“The Carol Sing has traditionally been on the first Tuesday of December, but we thought we would try it on a Saturday this year, in hopes that more families will attend,” said the Rev. Dr. Paul deJong, pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Fort Myers.
Admission is free, although organizers request voluntary donations of at least two cans of nonperishable food for The Soup Kitchen, operated by Community Cooperative, and a voluntary cash donation, if possible.
Because of the overwhelming popularity of the event, two sing-alongs are planned at 1 and 4 p.m. The doors will open 30 minutes prior to show time.
Community Cooperative, an innovative nonprofit organization made up of social service entrepreneurs dedicated to ending hunger and homelessness in Southwest Florida, continues to make a transformative impact through
FROM THE BALCONY OF FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
its wide range of programs and community partnerships.
In 2024 alone, Community Cooperative assisted more than 46,000 unduplicated individuals through its programs, providing over 2.1 million pounds of food to neighbors in need. Dedicated volunteers delivered more than 117,000 freshly prepared meals to homebound seniors through the Meals on Wheels of SWFL program, and over 2,000 volunteers contributed 46,000 hours of service to help fulfill the organization’s mission.
The need remains great—in Lee County alone, one in six residents face food insecurity. Through initiatives like Sam’s Community Café & Kitchen, Mobile Food Pantries, Meals on Wheels of SWFL, Mobile Hot Food and Social & Education Resource Centers, Community Cooperative works every day to ensure families and
VIEW
SOLOIST BEVERLY COX SINGS WE NEED A LITTLE CHRISTMAS.
individuals have access to nutritious meals, stability, and hope.
Cash donations are especially needed because Community Cooperative can buy five times as much food for the same amount of money that residents spend at local grocery stores.
The Christmas Carol Sing is a festival of holiday music and family fun. This year’s 75-minute performance will include the Carol Sing Community Choir, soloists and other special guests singing favorite holiday carols with audience singalongs.
There is a strong rumor that Santa Claus will be making a surprise visit for the “child in each of us.”
In addition to the Christmas Carol Sing, First Presbyterian Church also annually presents Mrs. Edison’s Hymn Sing in February. Both
COLLECTING FOOD FOR COMMUNITY COOPERATIVE
ARE DIANE MONTEMURRO AND BARBARA PECK.
events benefit Community Cooperative. For more information, call First Presbyterian Church at (239) 334-2261 or visit www. fpcfortmyers.org.
About First
SANTA LISTENS TO THE WISHES OF SADIE HAYES.
REV. DR. PAUL DEJONG, PASTOR OF FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, AND COMMUNITY COOPERATIVE CEO STEFANIE INK EDWARDS
Presbyterian Church Of Fort Myers
First Presbyterian Church of Fort Myers, located at 2438 Second St. in downtown Fort Myers, is a community of faith, celebrating a loving God. First Presbyterian Church was founded in 1901 and continues to be an integral part of Lee County by presenting some of the area’s most well-attended events, such as “Mrs. Edison’s Hymn Sing” in February as part of the Edison Festival of Light and the “Christmas Carol Sing” in December. Both events benefit Community Cooperative, which was founded by First Presbyterian Church, along with other local churches, in 1984. Services are offered Sundays at 11 a.m. with Sunday Adult Education from 9:45 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. A nursery is available from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Hearing assistive equipment also is available.
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ASSOCIATION PRESIDENTS
Admiral’s Isle ................................ Jeff McGinty
Bellavista George Hemsey
Coronado Geoff Smith
Courtyard Homes ...................... Tiffany Gaede
Crescent Cove ......................... Sam Schiphorst
Crooked Pond
Carol Tsilimos
Edgewater Mike Sklorenko
Grande Cay ....................................... David Lein
Gulf Harbour Master Chris Cope
Gulf Harbour Marina Dana Snyder
Harbour Landings I Megan Martin
Harbour Landings II ............. Thomas Broadie
Harbour Links
Long Pond
Joe Pierce
Millie Johnson
Mariposa ....................................... Steve Perseo
Treasurer ....................................... Craig Anderson
Marina Appearance Committee David Kelley
GULF HARBOUR
MASTER ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President Chris Cope
Vice President ............................. Sam Schiphorst
Treasurer/Secretary ............................ Carl Pecko
Director Carol Gillespie
Director
Rip Riordon
Director ................................................ Geoff Smith
Director John Wilson
COMMUNITY NEWS
Bellavista
Coronado
Courtyard Homes
Crooked Pond
Edgewater
Grande Cay
Harbour Landings I
Harbour Landings II
Harbour Links
Long Pond
Marblehead Manor
Mariposa
Mill Pond
Osprey Landing
Osprey Point
Palmas Del Sol
Paramount
Rivers Edge
Sagamore
Seaside Estates
Tamarind Cay
The Shores I
The Shores II
The Shores III
If you want your community news included here, please send articles and pictures to GulfHarbourReport@gmail.com by the 4th of each month.
GULF HARBOUR WEBSITES
GULF HARBOUR MASTER ASSOCIATION
BOARD
MEETINGS
will now be routinely held at Suitor Middleton Cox & Associates offices, 15751 San Carlos Blvd #8, Fort Myers, FL 33908. Meeting date and times will continue to be posted on the signs at the north and south entrances.
ATTENTION ASSOCIATION BOARD
MEMBERS
When your officers change, be sure to notify us so that we can keep both www.GulfHarbour33908.com and the Soundings updated.
GULF HARBOUR MASTER ASSOCIATION • www.GulfHarbour33908.com
The Soundings is always looking for new and talented writers to submit articles on events, the social scene, restaurants, movies, family matters, village life, etc…
Now is your chance to share your interests with the community. You can contribute each month, just once, or once in a while.
• Are you involved in any particular activities in Gulf Harbour or around town?
• Can you share your knowledge about a specific topic or hobby?
• Do you have (or did you retire from) an interesting career?
• Are you the person who always knows what to do/where to go in our area?
• Do you like to take pictures or draw cartoons?
• Can you pass along a favorite recipe?
If you answered yes to any of the above or have an idea of your own, you can submit your articles (and photos) at GulfHarbourReport@gmail.com.
GOLF CART RULES REMINDER
Gulf Harbour has had several incidents and issues involving golf carts. Reports have included underage driving, wrongway driving, driving on pedestrian and bike paths, and driving under the influence.
Some excerpts from our Rules and Regulations:
Any member, family member, or guest may operate a motorized vehicle (i.e. cars, trucks, golf carts, motorized scooters, etc.) on Master Association property as long as the driver is at least 16 years of age, has a valid driver’s license, and has proof of vehicle insurance.
All golfers with golf carts should refrain from using pedestrian and bicycle pathways, if at all possible, especially if a golf cart path is available in that area and the golf cart driver is playing golf at the time. When use of a Gulf Harbour road is necessary, ATVs, and golf carts utilized for other than golf activities should be driven in the same direction as vehicle traffic and comply with all rules that apply to vehicles.
All Florida rules of the road must be followed when driving motor vehicles within Gulf Harbour.
Please consider the above when driving your golf cart at Gulf Harbour.
RULES & REGULATIONS REMINDER
Lakes: No boating, fishing or swimming in any lake within Gulf Harbour.
RESOURCE HUB
Eagle Perch Island: No fishing.
Marina: No recreational swimming or fishing in the marina. No fish or other marine life of any kind shall be cleaned, prepared or processed in any manner on the property.
Regulations are fully supported by: Gulf Harbour Master Association Inc., Gulf Harbour Golf and Country Club Inc., Gulf Harbour Marina Condominium Association Inc.
DISCLAIMER
REMINDER
All Dogs MUST be leashed at ALL times in and on Gulf Harbour Properties.
The Soundings is a newsletter published for the benefit of the residents of Gulf Harbour. Seabreeze Communications Group assists in providing publishing, printing and advertising services. The content is that of the authors which should not be construed to be representations, opinions or views of the Gulf Harbour Master Association Inc., or its management, officers or directors or Seabreeze Communications Group. Additionally, the paid advertising in the Soundings should not be construed as an endorsement of any advertised product or service. Finally, none of the content of the Soundings may be reproduced for any purpose nor can the name GHY&CC Homeowner’s Association or similar modification be used in any way without the express prior written consent of the GH Master Association Inc Board of Directors.
