Landings Mag DEC 2025

DECEMBER 2025

Happy Landings

A Look Inside

FIFTH GIRLS’ HIGH SCHOOL EVENT SET

2026 LANDINGS

MUSIC FESTIVAL

WITCHES RIDE AND ENCHANTED BALL

On The Cover

The Inaugural Witches Ride and Enchanted Ball turned into a very festive affair for all the participants. It began in the parking lot at the Helm Club with witches and warlocks riding in golf carts or on bicycles. There were walkers too. Cathy Steeves, Crystal Day, Sarah Noyes and Brenda Ramsey (from left) had reason to smile. They won the award for best decorated golf cart.

JACKIE WAGNER

Production

5th Girls’ High School Event Set

Mark your calendars! The 5th Annual Lee County Girls’ High School Invitational is happening on Saturday, February 28, and Sunday, March 1. This exciting weekend brings together female high school athletes from across Lee County for two days of competitive tennis and community spirit.

Players will compete in singles and doubles matches on our beautiful Har-Tru clay courts, where skill, teamwork, and sportsmanship take center stage. Whether you’re a lifelong tennis fan or new to the sport, come cheer on these dedicated girls as they give it their all!

The girls look forward to the Share the Love Boutique shopping experience during the Invitational as they browse gently used tennis apparel, rackets, and shoes at zero cost to them. Please donate the gear you no longer use to this cause. Donations of tennis clothing, racquets and shoes can be dropped off at Trish Thomas’s house at 4484 Windjammer Lane in Schooner Village or at the tennis shop.

Your participation truly matters! Thanks to last year’s Invitational, $8,000 in grants were awarded to eight Lee County public high schools, helping develop and strengthen girls’ tennis programs.

Come out and join the excitement. Attend the Invitational, make a donation, bid on an auction item, and show your support for Lee County’s rising tennis players. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the benefits of tennis athleticism in the lives of young girls.

2026 Landings Music Festival

JIM WILLIS

For over a decade, the Landings Music Festival has brought our community together with family, fellowship, and fun, to celebrate the music of our lives.

Big changes are coming to the festival for 2026, with a true family picnic feel. The festival becomes resident managed but highly supported by LYGTC.

Attendees this year, for the first time, are invited to bring their own beverages and food to enjoy the event that will once again be held on The Landings driving range.

Three performing groups take the stage this year. “We are Family,” performed by Sister Sledge, became a gold record in 1979, and an anthem for caring and unity throughout the years. “We are Family” is also the theme for our opening performing group at the 2026 Landings Music Festival on Saturday, February 21, 2026. By the request of many in the community, show number one at 5 p.m., “We Are Family,” features nine resident vocalists with a variety of popular sounds and styles.

Making their first festival appearance is the High Voltage Show Band, with 11 on-stage performers and musicians, featuring vocalists Marci G, Steve McDougall, and Lonza Bartlett, who will perform their new show “ Spectacular ,” a high energy, no-limits variety show filled with audience favorites. Also featured in this show is our own Charlie McCoy, a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Taking the evening to the upper atmosphere is our third show, the amazing “Dirty Fishnet Stockings” from

Chicago, Illinois. This award-winning group features the best in zany and fun rockabilly. Fasten your seat belts – this is gonna be a fun ride.

Two professional transportation shuttles with an improved plan for efficiency and speed begin at 3:30 p.m. Shuttle pick-ups will be at the Marina parking lot and at the Helm Club parking lot. Residents can hop on the shuttle at either location from 3:30 until 9:30 p.m.

This year’s festival features new lower ticket pricing and heavy discounts for ticket purchases made in December. Tickets go on sale December 1 at the administration office (stop by or phone).

• December 1 - December 30: $25 per person

• January 5 - January 30: $30 per person

• February 2 - February 21: $35 per person

Any gains from the festival will be donated back to LYGTC and the Iona Fire District Christmas campaign for 2026.

The Landings has established a strong reputation for music and the performing arts, having been the home of the finest

singers and musicians in the country. Over 100 residents are a part of organized musical groups on an ongoing basis. Fourteen singers and/or musicians perform professionally off campus and several tour the country on a regular basis.

We ARE Family, and that’s what makes The Landings special. Several residents now boast third and fourth generations of family members establishing their roots in the community. Our foundation is strong. In 2022, Landings residents recorded and released an album filled with music written and performed only by our residents. Nashville senior audio engineer Robert Lucas, who recorded and mastered that album, said, “I’ve recorded thousands of hours of music in my career, and I have never seen one community of people so gifted and talented to create a complete album of music. It must be a special place.”

And indeed, it is.

Come out and join all the fun our music festival has to offer on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 5 p.m.!

Witches Ride and Enchanted Ball

Members from every village in The Landings turned out for the Inaugural Witches Ride and Enchanted Ball that was held on Monday, October 27. After all, adults also enjoy donning fun costumes even if they’re not trick or treating so that they can gorge on free candy!

Suzanne McGauley’s cart featured a bikini clad skeleton who didn’t have the body for it.

The event began at 3 p.m. in the parking lot at the Helm Club, where witches and warlocks gathered to participate in the Witches Ride parade throughout

The Landings community. Modes of transportation included golf carts and bicycles, with some opting to walk, with or without their brooms.

Who knew that witches and warlocks were good bike riders?

A total of 27 decorated golf carts joined bike riders and walkers who were led by a Lee County Sheriff’s Department vehicle. The Iona McGregor Fire Department brought up the rear in a shiny red fire truck.

Participants were invited to decorate their golf carts but had just one hour to get them ready. Mark Wehrman, Director of Golf at The Landings, and The Landings Board, graciously donated the carts and as evidenced by the photos, artistic talents abound here. Many groups decided to dress alike and there were clever costumes everywhere.

Witches strolled throughout The Landings community.

From back left: Crystal Day, Sarah Noyes, Brenda Ramsey and driver Cathy Steeves earned the award for best decorated golf cart.

The Helm Club dining rooms were beautifully decorated for Halloween thanks to the hard work of Teasha Green, owner of Something BlueTG. She contributed her incredible balloon decorations that gave the facility a festive air from the moment people came

through the front doors. Complete Weddings & Events owner Martin Dunn contributed a photo booth so that participants could have a keepsake of their costumes for the evening. Landings residents Jen and John Bavender also contributed their musical talents throughout the Enchanted Ball.

At the sold-out Enchanted Ball held at the Helm Club that evening, attendees were Several warlocks appeared at the Enchanted Ball. treated to such delicacies as Cauldron of Blood with Goblin Fingers (tomato soup and grilled cheese), Baked Brains (roasted cauliflower with white cheddar cheese sauce and shaved prosciutto), Guts and Eyeballs (spaghetti and meatballs), and Casket of Bones (barbecue ribs). The food tasted much better than the names for the dishes sounded!

All this festivity served a purpose too. Thanks to the incredibly hard work of Lighthouse Village owner Sandy DeMarco, who put together this outstanding event, cash and in-kind donations totaling $11,024 was raised. Premier Mobile Health Services, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit clinic that provides health care to underserved and underinsured residents in Southwest Florida, was the beneficiary. They have a walk-in

clinic on Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers as well as two mobile vans that visit underserved communities not only in Lee County, but in numerous surrounding counties as well.

Premier Mobile Health Services offer primary care, preventive screenings, chronic disease management, and health education directly within the community. The service was founded by Dr. Nadine (Deanie) Singh Brown, who told

The Premier Mobile Health van has enough equipment so that diagnostic laboratory tests can be completed on site.

left: Dr.

her compelling life story during the event. She explained that individuals are treated on a sliding scale depending on their income and whether they have insurance coverage, with most paying either very modest fees or receiving treatment free of charge.

In their van Premier Mobile employees are able to perform numerous laboratory tests so that accurate diagnosis and treatment can begin right away. This service removes barriers to care and improves outcomes for the most vulnerable population. Many of the patients served have chronic health issues, including high blood pressure and diabetes. These diseases can be effectively managed provided they are diagnosed and properly treated. The services provided by Premier Mobile have prolonged and saved lives.

JACKIE WAGNER

Music at Picnic Pointe

Music Monday is a new event for residents and guests. On Monday, Oct. 13, 300 people enjoyed listening to The Landings’ best professional musicians entertain for three full hours. The show was a great success.

A Message From The GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT

As our members return and rounds of golf increase, it’s a good time for a friendly reminder that we can all help keep our golf course looking its best. With the change in weather, our grass-growing season is slowing down, which means any damage will take longer to recover. Normal wear and tear is expected, but a little extra care from everyone goes a long way!

Here’s how you can help:

Fix your ball marks, plus one. If you can’t repair it properly, ask another player for help or gently tap it flat with your putter.

Fill your divots, plus one. Walkers can pick up a sand bottle to carry along. Keep all carts at least 30 feet from greens. Never drive between sand traps and greens, between greens and lakes, or through any restricted areas. Please follow cart path signs carefully. Respect staked areas. These are designated to help weak turf recover. Keep all carts on the paths and avoid shortcuts.

Keep pull carts off tee boxes.

Use handicap flags appropriately. Carts should remain on the path where required unless a handicap flag is displayed. These flags are reserved for players who need assistance to enjoy the game.

Our maintenance team worked hard all summer and continues to go above and beyond to protect the course. With everyone’s help, we can keep it in top shape for the entire season.

Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to keeping The Landings golf course beautiful!

LMGA: Around the Greens

BENTLEY COLLINS

Our new season has begun and with the hot, wet weather of summer behind us, the Landings Men’s Golf Association is off and running for another season. With more than 200 members, our field of players is full every Saturday. Games range from individual play to team scrambles and shambles, medal and match play. And every first Saturday of the month everyone enjoys a delicious brunch after golf.

At the LMGA board meeting on October 8, Brian Londergan, our Treasurer, reported that the bank balances are in solid shape with dues collections for the 2026 season to begin in November and December. One area where we are over budget is in the HoleIn-One payout. It seems that we have had a good run of aces with seven recorded so far this year. The LMGA pays $125 in cash and another $125 in sweeps credits for each HIO recorded during any LMGA event.

Matt Coneys, our handicapper, announced that he will be resigning from the board because our new score recording system no longer monitors handicaps. Thank you, Matt for your years of service as our club handicapper. You have done an admirable job of keeping us all on the straight and narrow.

President Steve Hooper presented a by-law change which enables the board to elect officers. The board voted in favor of the change, and it will be presented to the entire association for confirmation at a future meeting. Steve also proposed a change that would allow a guest to play three times per year instead of twice, which is the current rule, and the board voted in favor. It too will be voted on by the entire association at a future meeting.

Jeff Larsen led a discussion about having members “Adopt a Hole” in order to help Rocky Ford and his crew keep our beautiful course in the best possible condition. Players will fix ball marks, fill divots with sand/seed mix, rake traps and pick up any litter and broken tees on “their” hole. Mark Wehrman announced this at our Saturday meeting and the membership is strongly supportive.

And speaking of volunteering, if you or anyone you know would like to serve on the LMGA board, we are always looking for active golfers who are willing to put in a little time for the good of the club and the association. Just let any of the board members know.

Hit ’em straight

LLGA-18 Ladies’ Golf

MARY ANN SPRY

Greetings for the holiday months! The weeks seem to go fast. However, when one lives in a community such as The Landings time flies when you are having fun!

The past month as the league was officially opened, the attendance has been phenomenal and some fun weeks, such as 3 clubs and a putter. Two Best Balls, easiest holes and Net score plus putts with players dressed all in pink commemorating Breast Cancer Awareness month. All this plus the “Welcome Back Par-tee” day with the 9-Hole ladies turned out to be a smashing scramble success.

Everyone was dressed to describe something you may have done during the summer, such as hiking Canyonlands in Utah, riding the rails of the Canadian Rockies, spending a Minnesota summer with grandchildren, volunteering for the Freedom Service Dogs of America, enjoying the fall colors throughout New England, and more stories could have filled many pages.

There were some winners in all this activity and reporting first and second place teams from the scramble with the visiting ladies. In the first flight, first place was earned by the team of Karen Shelton, Barb Schulte, Kelly Wilson, and Lori Stegeman, second place: Phyllis Holley, Mary Ann Spry, Ginny Minarchi, and Mary Paulson.

In the second flight, first place was won by the team of Susie Scharber, Georgene Hildebrand, Linda Tucker, and Bridget Hampson. Second place went to Mia Byrne, Gretchen Phillips, Cathy Carley, and Liz Marini.

We all had a great time and enjoyed a lovely salad bar with an unbelievable selection of additions, and a potato bar with all the toppings. No one went home hungry after a special cupcake dessert. Thank you, Lynne Denk and Gretchen Phillips, for hosting this terrific event.

Hole in One news came about in the last month with Karen Shelton having her first Hole in One on #17. Congratulations Karen for the excitement on league day. Another Hole in One by member Lynda Redmon made for another exciting day in the life of golfing at The Landings.

We are pleased to welcome Carmen Gross, who has recently joined our

league, and a BIG welcome back to Teri Bailey and Lori Emmons. We look forward to playing together.

There have been many notices from our Golf Pro shop about the rules of golf and about etiquette on our golf course. Please read these and let’s keep in mind that we are here to enjoy the game, keep up with the group in front of you, repair ball marks and have a great day with friends and new acquaintances.

Fun days are ahead. Stay safe and well, and know golfing keeps you younger!

Ladies’ 9-Holer Golf DEBRA

BATES

It is good to be enjoying playing with the Ladies’ 9 Holers again. I’m sure all the seasonal ladies feel the same now that we’re seeing familiar faces again and meeting other golfers. Shout out to new member Ann Drennan, who I was teamed with one Friday. Welcome to all the new 9-Hole members.

This month’s closest to the pin winners are hole #1, Lauralee Cantlon; hole #1, Mary Greenberg; hole #11, Lyn Muysson; hole #3, Cheri Swartz; hole #14, Deb Hedges; hole #1, Bev Reeves; and hole #11, JoAnne Kupsch. Congratulations to all of them.

We shook up our regular attire for pink this month in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness. This annual event lasting throughout the month of October is designed to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research and treatment. It also reminds women of the importance of the importance of getting annual

mammograms in addition to performing regular self-examinations. Everyone looked pretty in pink.

Big thank you to Mary Leo and Diane Teeter for this month’s check-ins. Always a great way to put names to faces is when you volunteer for check-in duty.

Landings Duplicate Bridge Club

BILL FERRIS

The Landings Duplicate Bridge Club (LDBC) has now met three times since the Fall season has begun at The Landings. The first two meetings were like old times with our Director, Judy Cleveland watching over us in the Garden Room of the Helm Club, our usual venue. On Monday, October 13 and 20, we had five and one-half and seven tables, respectively. Winners were Jerry Poissant and Barb Coneys, then Ron and Pat Bailer, and Linda Logio and Linda Lahti. October 27 did not go as well when Judy came down with a short bout of Covid.

We generated a list of substitute directors, but the one we selected had to call out on Monday morning when she had to bring her husband to the Emergency Room. It looked as if we had weathered the storm with a last-minute sub to start the game, but then just when we looked to be home free, we had a snafu when eight people played the wrong boards during the first two rounds. We could not recover from this and keep the scoring intact, so we just played party bridge for the rest of the day and didn’t keep score. Judy is now back, so that unfortunate series of events will likely not recur this season. It was the first time in at least the past five seasons that we lost a session we had started.

Meanwhile, I can report some good news with regard to the Sanibel Regional that many of us played the week of October 6 to 12. The following club members won gold points in a field that included ACBL members from throughout the country as well as Canada and abroad:

Masterpoints And Club Winners

28.30 William Ferris

28.30 Pat Tylander

25.11 Ted Levy

19.23 Miles Thomson 18.12

Gerald Poissant

Barbara Coneys

Dave Hutson

Lynne Birdt

Jacqueline Crump

Ginny Nightingale

Deborah Root

Sue Wotton

Janice Baysden

Marina Kotch

In addition, some of the above won smaller numbers of red points.

We will be back playing at the Helm Club for the rest of the season. All who are living at The Landings and their guests are welcome to play every Monday at 9 a.m. but be sure to call ahead to register with Barb Coneys or Sue Wotton, whose phone numbers are in the Green Book or on our website.

Lee County Sheriff’s Office will be on site with their ice cream truck offering FREE hand scooped ice cream! Reservations are not required. Outside coolers/alcoholic beverages are not allowed.

Village News

ARIEL, CLIPPER COVE, FLAGSHIP, HARBORTOWN, LIGHTHOUSE, LONGBOAT, MARINER’S COVE, RIVERSIDE, SCHOONER, STEAMBOAT BEND, STEAMBOAT BEND EAST, SUNSET COVE, SUNSET HARBOR, TRAWLER, WINDJAMMER

CLIPPER COVE

Milestone Birthday

Maisie Seiverling celebrated her 75th birthday on November 5 and hosted with a celebratory pool party on November 8. Hope you had a wonderful birthday and party, Maisie!

Kudos to Karen Shelton

DONNA HUGHES hugheslink@comcast.net

Congratulations to our own Karen “KC” Shelton for hitting a Hole in One on Hole #17 on October 11! Not only was this Karen’s first Hole in One, but she was playing from the second tee. KC executed her perfection with a 5-iron. Way to go, KC!

Maisie Seiverling celebrated her 75th birthday on November 5.

FLAGSHIP

pparrett1@comcast.net

This past month, as we collectively recognized our veterans, I was struck by the rich tapestry of military service woven within our Flagship families. It was truly inspiring to learn about the diverse experiences and sacrifices made by many individuals. These personal histories offer valuable insights into dedication, resilience and commitment to our country. Here are a few examples.

Former White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer (son of Kathy Spicer, 4600) was recently promoted to Captain in the U.S. Navy Reserve. He has been serving in the Navy Reserve as a Public Affairs Officer since 1999. His Navy career includes serving Sean Spicer at Navy Promotion Ceremony.

on the Joint Chiefs of Staff, earning a master’s degree from the Naval War College, and working on media coverage for exercises in places like Antarctica and Europe. After his time as White House Press Secretary, he was appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy’s Board of Visitors. The promotion ceremony was presided over by Pete Hegseth, Secretary of War.

Bill Reid (4608) was drafted in 1960 for two years which was extended 24 days because of the crises in Cuba. Bill and Pat’s son-in-law was in the Army for 42 years and now serves in the Florida Guard. Their granddaughter, her husband and their grandson all serve in the Air Force. Michael loads bombs on fighter jets and Ashley and Brady are fighter pilots. The Reid family are proud to be Americans!

Roger Leighty (4604) was a buck sergeant in the 1st Cavalry Division of the army in Vietnam, 19711972. He spent his time on assorted fire support bases in the Long Bing/Bien Hoa area as an artillery gun crew chief. Roger Leighty, circa 1972.

Becky Ross’ (4604) father, Bill Ross (William G Ross, Jr.), served in theaters of combat during World War II, beginning in 1943 and was finally recognized as a U.S. military veteran in 1988. As a 17-year-old, he tried to enlist in the U.S. Army and Navy and was rejected because of his eyesight. So, he joined the U.S. Merchant Marines at 17 years of age and was trained at the Navy Cooking School at the Vinoy Hotel in St. Petersburg, FL. He served as chief baker on a merchant ship, delivering supplies and troops to theaters of war, including Africa, India and Europe. He liked to tell the story of how, on every birthday aboard ship, he baked each serviceman the cake of his choice.

Although the Merchant Marines were not then recognized as a branch of the service, they had higher casualty rates than any branch of the armed forces during World War II. Their delivery of supplies was critical to the war efforts, and they were frequent targets of German U-boats, mines and even kamikaze pilots.

A total of 733 Merchant Marine vessels were sunk by enemy attacks. Bill was part of the resupply efforts at Normandy arriving the day after D-Day, transporting more troops, ammunition and supplies.

At 63 years old, when WW II Merchant Marines were finally recognized as military veterans and qualified for veterans’ benefits, Bill joked that he was “goin’ to college.” Some of you may remember Bill Ross as he was your neighbor here in Flagship from 1985 until 2012.

W.G.

Ross, 1943 U.S. Merchant Marines.

John Sandrock (4612) was in the U.S. Army August 1968 to July 1971 as Spec E-5, 22 months in grade. He was a 62B heavy equipment mechanic MOS (military occupational specialty). He was one year in Vietnam and 17 months in Germany. He received an Honorable Discharge with an Army Commendation Medal. He made rank very quickly because he served well and was offered promotion to E-6 for re-enlistment. He declined since he had already been accepted to The Ohio State for Architecture and didn’t want to move frequently.

Richard Hickey (4604) enlisted in the Marine Corps in February 1964, shortly after turning 18 years old. He was Honorably Discharged in February 1968 and attained rank of Sgt (E-5). His military occupation was as a teletype operator with top secret clearance. He spent 32 months continuous overseas duty in the Philippines, Vietnam, and Okinawa.

Carolyn Watson’s family (4616) has a unique military background. Back in 1887, her great grandfather Andrew served with the Gordon Highlanders, a branch of the British Army. His son James (Carolyn’s grandfather) served in the Royal Air Force in June 1918 in France. The RAF was heavily engaged in operations to

support Allied ground forces battling the German Spring offensive. Carolyn’s dad, Andrew, grew up in New Jersey and became a research chemist working for Merck and Company. During World War II when the need for massive amounts of penicillin was identified, her dad’s job was designated as a reserved occupation. This is an occupation considered important enough that those in such an occupation are exempt for military service. He made penicillin, streptomycin, sulfa drugs and a wide variety of vitamins to support the Allied war effort.

Chief Master Sergeant Vincent Fondacaro (4604) served 17 active years of service and 23 years in Air National Guard for a total of 40 years in the U.S. Air Force. During service he deployed overseas numerous times in support of Operation Noble Eagle, Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, Southern Watch, and the Global War on Terrorism! On these deployments he earned two medals for

Global War on terrorism, National Defense Service medal, Air Force Achievement and Commendation medals, and three Meritorious Service medals. While on the last six-month deployment for the Joint Detention Group at Guantanamo Bay Cuba, he earned the Defense Meritorious Service Medal for leadership. His daughter, Captain Samantha Fondacaro, is currently serving as an Air Force Aircraft Commander, flying C-17s for a Special Operations Low Level Squadron.

Lt. Commander Jessica King, daughter of Jeff and Pattie Parrett (4604), has served in the Navy as a fighter pilot since 2013. She was the first woman in the Navy to train on the EA18 Growler fighter plane. She is currently in the Navy Reserve as an instructor on the Growler and recently achieved Captain status for Delta Airlines.

Bob Allen (4616) comes from a line of those who volunteered to do their part in service to our country. While growing up, he knew that his father served in the U.S. Army, and his three uncles served in the U.S. Navy. They all served during WW II. During all their family get togethers there was always much to talk about but never about the war. Bob volunteered and joined the Army during the height of the Vietnam war. According to Bob, it just seemed like the right thing to do. During his three-year term, he spent 13 months in Korea on a secret mission and the rest of the time taught trigonometry to the artillery in Fort Sill, Oklahoma.

Their family’s claim to military history is that they are direct descendants of Admiral William “Bull” Halsey of WW II fame. His grandmother was a Halsey and he can remember visiting their farm when he was very young. His mother said his love of boats came from the Halsey side of the family.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude for the profound sacrifices made by these military families. Their unwavering dedication and sacrifices allow us to live in freedom every day.

SCHOONER

Schooner may be one of the Landings smaller villages but never let it be said that we do not have our fair share of witches! Not only our fair share but the “best witch” selected by a representative of the Sheriff’s Department at the dinner.

rooesq@juno.com

Thanks to Larry and Jackie Wagner, Crystal Day, Lisa Cates, Liz Welsh, Sarah Noyes, Chris Dixon, Al Wagner and Carole Lundgren, Dennis and Margie Nahnsen, Lori Emmons and all others who contributed to the Witches Parade Fundraiser for the benefit of Premier Health Mobile.

October was a BIG birthday month for Schooner ladies. Shirley Rasmussen (101!), Donna Riggs, Lisa Cates, Sarah Noyes, Dee Bellar, Ellen Mullarkey and Jackie Wagner celebrated birthdays. Former Schoonerite, Arla Kern, joined us, sadly for the last time (much to Maria Aponte’s dismay in particular!) before she moves back to Fairhope, Alabama, to be near family. She will be missed.

And in another Parade, this year Al Wagner was surprised and honored to be the Grand Marshall of the 4th of July parade in Flossmoor, Illinois. Al’s father started the first of these parades in 1932 beginning the traditional event in which children ride their decorated bikes, parents decorate strollers and baby buggies, and everyone dresses in traditional red, white and blue.

Beloved Schooner resident Jackie Dorval

On November 1, many friends, neighbors and family members will be attending a gathering to remember Jackie Dorval and a life well lived. Jackie passed away at home on October 17 at the age of 91. When Ric and I first came to Schooner, Jackie and her late husband of 56 years, Norm, were at the heart of the Village where Norm served as President for several years. Together they raised five children in Pawtucket, RI, with summers spent in their beach house on Prudence Island across Narragansett Bay from Bill and Barbara Riggs.

As her obituary stated, she “was an expert in needlecrafts, whether sewing, knitting, rug-making or needlepoint. After she and Norm moved to Florida, Jackie was an active member of The Landings tennis, golf and yacht clubs; an eager participant in the annual cruises; and could always be found hosting and playing cards, Bridge, and Euchre. Jackie loved, laughed, and lived life at The Landings to the fullest, cherishing her family and their frequent visits, and ever grateful to be in a community surrounded by

her dear friends.” I, for one, will likely never see Marilyn Harlan without seeing Jackie alongside her or waiting on the bench for a ride to be off on some adventure. Jackie is survived by her daughter, Joanne Dorval (Schooner resident); four sons and their spouses, Guy and Sharon Dorval, Glenn and Julie Dorval, Brian and Samantha SteadDorval, and Scott and Syringa Dorval; six grandchildren and four step-grandchildren; and her sister, Madeline Grondines. Donations may be made in her memory to Hope Hospice Care, 9470 Health Park Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908.

WINDJAMMER

Mike and Tracy Cant of Jib Boom have a wonderful story to share with us.

EVA BELL evabell81@yahoo.com

What happens when a young Canadian girl leaves her home in Australia to visit her parents for Christmas in The Landings? A Landings love story for the next generation! Carly Cant (parents Mike and Tracey Cant of Jib Boom) flew from her home in Australia to The Landings to stay for Christmas, in December of 2024.

After meeting soon after, online, Ryan Sanchez and Carly Cant had their first date at The Landings. A few dates later, Carly knew Ryan was “the one” and decided not to return to Australia. Ryan came North to

meet Carly’s family and experienced the winters in Lakefield, Ontario, as well as a few blizzards. Carly flew south to meet Ryan’s family in Springfield, Illinois and his friends in Fort Myers. Soon after, Ryan rented out the Babcock Ranch Eco preserve to propose to Carly and a baby alligator was witness to her excited “yes.”

baby alligator witnessed the engagement

Carly Cant.

Carly Cant and Ryan Sanchez said their “I do’s” on the 18th tee at The Landings.

Oktoberfest at Picnic Pointe

On October 11 this year, Carly and Ryan celebrated their marriage on the fairway of the 18th green with the support of Mark Wehrman and the golf team. Cocktails and an amazing reception dinner and dance were organized by Deb Tuaileva and her food and beverage team at the Helm Club. Friends from The Landings, Australia, Canada, and the U.S. were here to celebrate. From first dates to “I do’s” The Landings has produced another love story!

On October 23 residents celebrated our first party of the season, the second annual Oktoberfest. The weather was perfect with sun, clouds, and a light breeze. Linda Marsala, Mark and Mary Willis, Bob and Mary Spada, Julie Iverson, Betty Kollar and Tom Bell set up and decorated the pavilion in less than two hours. Three Cornhole games were set up and people played games just for fun. Dennis Clark volunteered his DJ talents and played a variety of music from Oompa to Rock and people were dancing and even joined in a line dance performance. Julie had prepared a roaster full of delicious sauerkraut with 84 bratwursts. Along with a variety of salads, potato and cabbage dishes provided by the guests, we had an amazing feast that was finished off with delectable desserts.

Residents turned out in force for the second annual Oktoberfest at Windjammer.

The Marsalas treated us to refreshing spiked apple cider as well. We had fantastic attendance of 72 residents, which included eight of our nine board members. Just another indication that our board is in total support of our village. This attendance was twenty over 2024 and we are looking forward to a larger crowd at our future events, especially as more snowbirds are returning. Come join the fun and show off your cooking skills as well.

Welcome back Pam and LeRoy Van Antwerp The Van Antwerps first came to Crossjack in Windjammer Village in 2013. They were snowbirds until they decided to make The Landings their permanent home. In 2016 they bought a townhome in Longboat and enjoyed the extra space and golf course view until Pam injured herself playing tennis. For several months she could not climb the steps to their main bedroom and that’s when they decided that it would be wise to move to a single floor house. To their dismay there was nothing suitable available here in The Landings. In 2020 their realtor Dan Bullock found a beautiful house in Plantation Somerset in Fort Myers, near their daughter Heidi’s home. Pam told me that once the decision on the house was made, Dan congratulated them to their new home. But Dan also said, “you chose a beautiful home in a great community, but mark my words, sooner or later you will be back in The Landings.”

LeRoy and Pam both said that they loved their new home, neighbors and the community and they became Social Members here to stay connected with friends and activities. After a few years though, they both realized that Plantation Somerset has everything you would want in a community except it lacks the ambiance, camaraderie, and social life we have here in The Landings. In September 2025 Dan’s projection came true; Pam and LeRoy are back! They bought an amazing house on Windjammer Lane and Tom and I are happy to have them as our neighbors a few houses down the street. In addition to their daughter in Fort Myers, they have a son, three grandchildren and six great grandchildren, with a seventh on the way. With two guest bedrooms and a fantastic open concept living area available, they are looking forward for their families visiting. Being with Pam and LeRoy in their new home, I think they found their “forever” home on Windjammer Lane.

STEAMBOAT BEND EAST

It’s December, and nobody asked if I was ready. ~ Sarah Kay

CAROL CUMMINS callifleur1955@gmail.com

December always seems to catch me feeling behind on everything. It helps to be in a place of peaceful waiting, as an

awareness of Advent brings to me. Hope your December has some moments of peaceful waiting.

Tom and Linda Oleska and Fred and Beth Muhlemann showing off their scariest attire, attended the Enchanted Witches Ball held at the Helm Club.

I received some wonderful and fun photos of SBE residents enjoying a fun Halloween season, as I write this late October. What a fun theme: the Witches Ride and Enchanted Witches Ball!

Jane Johnson, Lynn DeFranc and Heidi Helm stopped off at Wheelhouse Grill prior to Halloween festivities at the Helm Club.

Linda Oleska attended the Enchanted Witches Ball, and said the food and

entertainment was excellent. Always fun to dress up and see everyone else’s costumes. They were quite clever. Although most women were in black, Carol Donohue was daring and dressed in white! Perhaps she was emulating Glenda, the good witch in the Wizard of Oz.

Carol Donohue in her white witch’s garb and her friend Randy attended the Enchanted Witches Ball.

HAPPY LANDINGS NEEDS HELP

Happy Landings is looking for editors and reporters for several villages and clubs at The Landings.

If you are interested, please contact head editor Hazel Jones at hazelwhitejones.hl@gmail.com

Jane Johnson’s son, Scott, her granddaughter Kelsey, and Jane’s two great grandsons, Elliot, 3 and Carter, five months old.

Jane Johnson’s son, Scott, for 10 months has been struggling with flesh eating bacteria resulting in the loss of his right leg and foot, six inches from his knee.

Jane says: “I am proud to say Scott has fought the problem and has kept a positive attitude. He is home now continuing with therapy and is able to walk with his shoe on the prosthetic. He lives in Illinois. I couldn’t visit so it was difficult for Mom, not being able to visit. I am hoping he will be able to visit with me next year. Lord willing.”

Wishing Scott a speedy recovery and adjustment to walking safely.

May everyone enjoy a blessed and safe Holiday this year.

Art That Brings Us Together

CELEBRATING 26 YEARS OF CREATIVITY, CONNECTION, AND COMMUNITY

Each February, the Fort Myers River District transforms into a vibrant openair gallery filled with color, creativity, and connection. For 26 years, ArtFest Fort Myers has brought our community together to celebrate the power of the arts and this year’s festival, happening February 6 to 8, 2026, promises to be one of the most inspiring yet.

What began as a small community event has blossomed into Southwest Florida’s premier fine art festival, drawing thousands of art lovers and featuring more than 200 professional artists from across the country. But beyond the paintings, sculptures, and jewelry that fill the streets, ArtFest has always been about something much deeper: the people who make it happen and the community that calls it home.

“ArtFest isn’t just an event, it’s a shared experience,” says Juan Santiago, executive director of ArtFest Fort Myers. “Every year, we see families who have been coming for decades, volunteers who help us bring the festival to life, and young students who

discover their own creativity through our art-in-education programs. It’s a reflection of what makes Fort Myers such a special place.”

That sense of belonging is what makes ArtFest more than a weekend festival. Through programs like Chalk Block, where high school students transform the pavement into a colorful masterpiece, and Art Under 20, which showcases the talent of emerging artists, ArtFest Fort Myers continues to invest in the next generation of creators. The festival’s commitment to community extends throughout the year, supporting arts education and offering opportunities for engagement that last long after the tents come down.

Visitors can also look forward to the Opening Night VIP Party—a lively Friday evening celebration overlooking the river, filled with live music, great food, and a first look at the artists’ work. The weekend continues with two full days of art-filled

experiences, from live entertainment and interactive art to family-friendly fun and local food favorites.

“ArtFest is where creativity meets community,” Santiago adds. “It’s where neighbors reconnect, visitors fall in love with Fort Myers, and artists feel truly celebrated. We invite everyone to be part of it—whether you come to volunteer, collect new art, or simply spend the day surrounded by inspiration.”

So, mark your calendars and get ready to experience ArtFest Fort Myers, February 6 to 8, 2026, along the beautiful downtown riverfront. Come see why, after 26 years, this community tradition still reminds us that art doesn’t just decorate life—it brings us together.

For more information, to become a volunteer, or to plan your visit, visit ArtFestFortMyers.com or follow @ArtFestFortMyers on social media.

RESOURCE HUB

THE LANDINGS YACHT, GOLF & TENNIS CLUB

ADMINISTRATION OFFICE

482-3211 • FAX 482-1796

General Manager: David Gillespie

Director of Administration: Rosana Jaramillo

Director of Activities and Communication: Michele Lawson

Controller: Kim Cummings

HAPPY LANDINGS

The Official Community News

PUBLISHER

Seabreeze Communications

Head Editor: Hazel Jones hazelwhitejones.hl@gmail.com

Editors: Barbara June, Linda Tucker

We Need Volunteers

Happy Landings needs new editors and reporters for several villages and clubs at The Landings. If you are interested, please contact head editor Hazel Jones.

MISSION STATEMENT

The purpose of the Happy Landings digital magazine is to record and celebrate events in the lives of individuals and the life of the community.

Deadline: Articles for the Happy Landings digital magazine will be accepted only until noon on the 1st of each month, and should be e-mailed to the Editor.

Disclaimer/Complaint Process: Happy Landings™ is a digital magazine published for the benefit of the residents of The Landings Yacht, Golf and Tennis Club, Inc., which has hired Seabreeze Communications as the publisher to provide content and sell advertising consistent with the editorial and advertising policies of the Board of Directors of The Landings Yacht, Golf and Tennis Club, Inc. The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors and, unless otherwise noted, should not be construed to be those of The Landings Yacht, Golf and Tennis Club Inc., or the Board of Directors, or the members. Paid advertising does not represent an endorsement by this publication. Content cannot be reproduced without written consent from The Landings Yacht, Golf and Tennis Club, Inc. Happy Landings is a registered trademark which cannot be used without the express written permission of the holder of the mark, The Landings Yacht, Golf and Tennis Club, Inc.

The Happy Landings ™ does not accept letters to the editor. All members of the LYGTC have the right to express their concerns to the Board of Directors, after following these steps: First, bring your problem/complaint to the attention of, in order, the editor; the Communications Committee; and finally, the General Manager. If dissatisfied with the result, you must then fill out a “Member Problem/Complaint” form (available in the Administration Office). The completed form will be given to the Board of Directors, who will decide if the problem/complaint warrants its review or action.

DEADLINE for JANUARY 2026

December 1, 12 Noon