Landings Mag FEB 2026

FEBRUARY

On The Cover

The moment the lights were turned on at the Picnic Pointe Christmas Tree was captured just as the sun was setting. The photograph was taken from the stern of “Justified,” the boat owned by Ariel residents Steve and Carol (Cookie) Smith, and their constant buddy, Rosey the friendly corgi.

Landings Chorus Christmas Concert

The Landings Chorus, under the direction of Mariner’s Cove resident Lynn Cisky, delivered outstanding performances before nearly capacity crowds. The performances, billed as “A Very Merry Landings Christmas,” took place on the stage at the Main Deck in the Helm Club.

Rehearsals for the 35-member chorus began on September 9 and continued every Tuesday until the concerts took place on December 2 and 3. The first half of the program was primarily comprised of traditional Christmas carols, including “Do You Hear What I Hear,” and “O Holy Night.”

Lynn Cisky said, “We are so fortunate to have so many professional singers in our community and it is a thrill to have them join in our concerts.” Among the professionals performing was Lonza Bartlett, current lead singer for Motown “Legacy Platters.” He sang “My Christmas Wish,” a song evoking easier times past that deserves to join the list of Christmas

tunes performed annually. “My Christmas Wish” was composed by Keith Belfiglio who accompanied Lonza on guitar.

After a brief intermission, the second half of the program kicked off with a bang. Lynda Redmon delivered a rousing version of “Santa Baby,” a song originally performed and made famous by Eartha Kitt in 1953. Lynda sang to her favorite Santa, her husband Mike Redmon.

The evening concluded with the “Hallelujah Chorus,” the finale of George Frideric Handel’s “Messiah.” The full-

throated chorus admirably delivered this complicated and beautiful hymn. Many of the people attending the performances agreed that the chorus has never sounded better.

The participants had little rest as the first rehearsal for the Spring Concert began January 6. The chorus will continue to practice every Tuesday until their next performances, scheduled for March 31 and April 1. Music lovers at The Landings should plan to attend what’s sure to be enjoyable evenings of song.

Madisen’s Match Returns in March

The Landings Yacht, Golf and Tennis Club is proud to host the return of Madisen’s Match, one of the most anticipated tennis and charitable events of the year. It will take place on March 13 and March 15. This twoday celebration blends world-class tennis experiences with a meaningful philanthropic mission, creating a truly unforgettable weekend for members and guests.

Headlining this year ’s event is the participation of the greatest doubles team of all time, Mike and Bob Bryan. The Bryan Brothers, winners of 16 Grand Slam titles, an Olympic Gold Medal, and holders of the No. 1 world ranking for a record 438 weeks, will be featured throughout the weekend. They will offer members rare access to learn from, compete alongside, and watch true legends of the game in action. The Bryan Brothers will be joined by fellow tennis legends Tom Gullikson, Luke Jensen, Don Johnson, Mikael Pernfors, Ryan Harrison, with more still to be announced!

The Madisen’s Match tennis events get started with the Legends Tennis Camp, an exclusive on-court experience that places participants directly with the pros. This highly interactive camp focuses on doubles strategy, positioning, and tactics, with hands-on instruction from the Bryan Brothers and other world-class tennis professionals. Players are grouped by skill

Twin brothers Bob and Mike Bryan are shown with tournament namesake Madisen (lower left) and another cancer survivor, Cali.

level, with all skill levels welcome. The Legends Tennis Camp is scheduled for Sunday, March 15 from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m., with Lunch with the Legends and a ticket to the Pro Tennis Classic Exhibition included with purchase.

The weekend also features the highly sought-after VIP Pro-Am, where amateur players have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play with and against the Madisen’s Match world class pros in a competitive yet fun match-play setting. The Pro-Am captures the true spirit of Madisen’s Match, blending high-level tennis with camaraderie, access, and unforgettable moments on court. The Pro-Am is scheduled

for Sunday, March 15 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Lunch and Pro Tennis Classic Exhibition tickets are included with purchase.

Spectators will not want to miss the Pro Tennis Classic Exhibition taking place on the Landings Stadium Court. This premier exhibition event allows members and guests to watch worldclass tennis professionals—including the Bryan Brothers—compete live at The Landings, delivering high-energy, elite-level tennis in the intimate setting of Stadium Court. The Pro Tennis Classic is scheduled for Sunday, March 15 at 5:00 p.m., with tickets starting at $75 for reserved seating.

Off the court, the festivities kick off with the Madisen’s Match Gala and Auction on Friday, March 13. This is an elegant evening bringing together participants, sponsors, and supporters. The Gala features exclusive auction items, unique experiences, and opportunities to directly support the Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida. Tickets start at $125, which include dinner, open bar, and live entertainment.

Beyond the tennis and social events, Madisen’s Match is driven by its impact. The 2025 Madisen’s Match event raised over $120,000 in support of the pediatric cancer programs at Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida, helping to fund critical care, research, and support services for children and families in need.

Tickets for Madisen’s Match are available through the Tennis Pro Shop and may be charged directly to member accounts, or by visiting www. madisensmatch.com.

Members are encouraged to reserve their spots early and be part of an event that continues to elevate The Landings tennis tradition while making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families across Southwest Florida.

Fashion Show and Luncheon Set

Leading Ladies is the theme of the Fashion Show that will take place on Saturday, March 21, at 11:00 a.m. in the Main Deck of the Helm Club. Fashions are provided by Mainstream Boutique, located off Six Mile Cypress Drive.

Owner Seanna Pocklington shared, “We have been in our community for a little over four years. Mainstream Boutique is a franchise; each is owned and operated by women across the United States. Shopping in our

Boutique isn’t just shopping, it’s an experience! We make it fun and interactive with Stylists who love helping you find what makes you feel confident. From daughters to moms to grandmothers and girlfriends, our Boutique brings every generation together with style that fits all ages and stages.”

The event is sponsored by Alumnae Panhellenic of Lee County whose major objective is to provide local sorority students scholarships to continue their education. To qualify, the sorority members must have either graduated from high school in Lee County or be attending college in Lee County. The highlight of the event is when we award scholarships to this year’s recipients. This year we will be awarding four $2,000 scholarships to deserving sorority coeds.

This year’s event will feature numerous silent auction items provided by member sororities, ranging in value from $100$500. In addition, attendees may participate in gift card drawings from local merchants and a 50/50 Raffle. Last year, 84 attended the

luncheon and $4,658 was raised from the silent auction. Ariel resident Holly Messinger is in charge of the event this year. “Our goal is 100 attendees and to raise $8,000 to fully fund next year’s four scholarships,” she said.

The lunch menu consists of a cup of Tomato Basil Bisque, a Leading Lady salad of baby spinach, fresh berries and fruit, sliced tomato, cottage cheese, boiled eggs, sliced avocado and raspberry vinaigrette, with Lemon Sponge cake

for dessert. You won’t want to miss the specialty Leading Lady cocktail!

Tickets are $50 and can be purchased through PayPal at AlumnaePanhellenicOfLeeCounty@gmail. com or by sending a check made payable to Lee County Alumnae Panhellenic to Anne Locke, Treasurer, 15751 Windward Way Circle, #1104, Fort Myers, FL 33908. Contact Holly Messinger, at 239-8965790 with questions.

The Wellness Corner

LOIS HULSE

What you should know about shingles is the subject of this article. Shingles is a contagious viral infection that causes a painful, burning skin rash. The rash can appear red, dark pink, dark brown or purplish, depending on your skin tone. It typically occurs on only one side of the body.

Shingles is an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. After having chickenpox, the virus remains dormant and inactive in your nervous system for years before reactivating as shingles. Shingles is also referred to as herpes zoster.

Most cases clear up in three to five weeks. First symptoms are usually pain and burning on one side of your body, with fluid-filled blisters that break easily. The rash can occur on the face, ears, chest, back, abdomen, or even arms. The pain from shingles occurs in the nerves where the rash is located.

Some people experience symptoms beyond pain and rash. Fever, chills, headaches, muscle weakness and fatigue, complications of the eye such as blurry vision, and nerve damage are other symptoms that sufferers experience.

It’s important to remember that shingles is contagious. Shingles is particularly common in older adults. Of the one in three people who get shingles in their lifetime, about half are over 60. This is because the immune systems of older people are more likely to be compromised or weaker.

To prevent shingles, people 50 years old are advised to get the shingles vaccine. The vaccine helps prevent severe symptoms and complications associated with shingles.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for shingles. However, treating the disease as soon as possible with an antiviral drug can help prevent complications and speed up recovery. Consult your doctor for care as soon as symptoms occur.

Editor’s Note: Sunset Cove resident Lois Hulse is a retired registered nurse with degrees in Nursing and Health and Human Services .

FINE ART

C O M P E T I T I O N & E X H I B I T

Submissions: Monday, February 23, 2026

Judging: Thursday, February 26, 2026

THEME: SEASHELLS

We invite artists of all mediums to submit their artwork for display in the Helm Club lobby.

Exhibit's theme must be reflected in the artwork.

Prizes awarded for 1st, 2nd & 3rd place.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to showcase your talent!

Ladies’ 9-Holer Golf

DEBRA BATES

It is great that our golf members have reciprocal privileges at other courses in the Fort Myers area. I always enjoy joining a group to play off-campus and experiencing the challenges of long courses as well as seeing the beauty of nature here in our area. In December, a group of 9-Holer players participated in the Christmas Tournament at the Hideaway Country Club.

The first Friday morning of golf in December was a straight scramble and had a great mix of players scoring for first place. The front 9 winners were the team of Bev Reeves, Hillary Combs, Grace Berg, and Mary Rea. Back 9 winners were Virginia Miller, Pam Baran, Linda Moline, and Bridget Hampson. Closest to the pin winner was Brenda Collins.

The second Friday was the Holiday Scramble and Brunch event. I’m sorry I missed this one, but I was home in Kentucky, trying to get warm. First-place winners on the front 9 were Sheri Christian, Jeanne Squitier, Tracey Cant, and Susie Duca. Back nine winners were Peg Thompson, Pat Benner, Lin Muysson, and Bridget Hampson. Closest to the pin winners were Pattie Parrett on the front and Angela Brallier on the back.

The following week’s winners were Peggy Moreland, Martha Kohnke, and Sue Bleeker, on the front 9. Back 9 winners were Peg Thompson, Laura Trian, Cindy Rollman, and Barb Curioso. Closest to the pin winners were Ginny Minarchi on the front 9 and Deb Hedges on the back. Congratulations to all the winning teams. I’m looking forward to getting back on the course, despite the early wake-up required. It’s so enjoyable to be the first group out there to enjoy our surroundings.

A small group of players elected to play on the last Friday of the month, December 26. Congratulations to Peggy Thompson, Carol Story, Betty Kollar, and Lynda Schmitt for finishing in first place. Closest to the pin winner was Dee Bellar with a shot just 19 inches from the pin. What a close hit that was!

We have many new players who have joined the league. I know everyone is excited to get to play with them. I just want to say welcome to all the new players! We now have 149 active players for our Friday League.

LLGA Ladies’ 18 Golf

MARY ANN SPRY

The “Hole In One” Club is growing! So many thrillers happening among our league ladies and especially on our league day. Congratulations to new member Susan Head on her best shot of the morning on Hole 11.

Diane Giebner (left) Cathy Steeves, and Marty Roemer (not pictured) did a fantastic job in collecting donations for the Ronald McDonald House.

For the “Spirit of Holiday Giving and Sharing” the LLGA-18 collected needed items and cash for the Ronald McDonald House of SW Florida. Thank you to our members who so generously gave to this great cause. Families stay at the Ronald McDonald House when family is in the hospital and these personal needs – games and reading materials – make their stay more welcoming.

For entertainment we enjoyed the talented “3 L’s”, where Liz Welsh, Lynda Redmon, and Lisa Cates provided fun Christmas songs, which included some original arrangements. Great job gals! Our game of the day was a challenging 6-6-6 team game where we took 1 BB, 2 BB, and 3BB throughout the course on the designated holes. A big THANK YOU to Steve Carney for donating some of his creative wine cork Christmas trees for prizes. The winners were thrilled to get one of these originals.

Liz Welsh, Lynda Redmon and Lisa Cates, aka the “3 L’s”, entertained at the holiday luncheon.

Other games we have experienced this month included Stableford, Match Play and Low Gross with handicap. Liz Welsh had an amazing day on one Wednesday where she won First Place and got “Closest to the Pin” on BOTH holes! The clubs were tuned up that day.

Coming up next month we will enjoy some competitive play as the Presidents’ Cup will be held on two of our Wednesdays. We hope we have a great turnout for this very popular experience. Our “Member/ Guest Day is also scheduled where we invite a NON-18-hole league member from The Landings or golfing guests from outside of The Landings. This had been a most popular event in the past and hope we see many of our members participate.

We have enjoyed meeting many of our new members and hope they are having a great time getting to know everyone. Our Greeters for December were Belinda Stacey and Mary Paulson.

As I write today, we wish Tiger Woods a Happy 50th Birthday! He has contributed SO much to the game of golf for young and experienced folks. Perhaps we will see him play again in the PGA Senior events!

Get Ready to Cheer at 5th

LAURIE HAMILTON

We are excited to announce the annual event supporting female tennis players from Lee County high schools. Join us at The Landings on Saturday, February 28, and Sunday, March 1, as these talented athletes showcase their skills and determination on the court. Let’s come together to encourage and celebrate their athletic journeys!

Let’s get our neighbors, friends, families, and competitors to cheer and engage with our Landings community. The more support we show, the more memorable and uplifting this event will be for everyone involved. Bring your enthusiasm and help create an inspiring atmosphere for these outstanding young athletes!

Our professional racquets staff, led by role-model Bella Graf, is excited about this 5th Annual Girls High School Invitational. They look forward to running a professional event on our envious HarTru courts. The finals will be played on the Stadium Court, with engaged audiences and entertainment. Let’s show Lee County that we care and encourage the public schools that support our community.

As final plans are made, please review your gently used equipment – especially racquets – for donation. Coaches first and then players will select items, as some schools need shared racquets for afterschool tennis. Our Racquets Pro Staff inspects each racquet for regripping and restringing. Clean out your gear and bring donations to our Racquets Pro Shop.

Thank you for your support and community involvement!

Enjoy Motorized Sail Boats?

Anyone who enjoys sailing a motorized boat is invited to join the Motorized Sail Boating Group. They get together at the Helm Club Lake. Contact one of these aficionados if you want to join them: Bentley Collins, Denis Fourgeau-Ciers, Bill Inman, or Bob Spry.

Feel free to join Bentley Collins, Denis Fourgeau-Ciers, Bill Inman, and Bob Spry at the Helm Club Lake.

General Manager’s Report

JOHN TRIMARCHE

DECEMBER 16, 2025.

Administration

• New cameras and omni directional microphones have been ordered to be used for all Board and committee meetings. This will eliminate the need to pay Harmon $1,000.00 per meeting to record them for us, resulting in approximately $16,000 in annual savings. The meetings will be hosted via Zoom, which will eliminate the need for Board members to be heard only when they call in. The screen and projector will be used to broadcast the out-of-town directors, so they are more included.

• Ryan Lundgren and I have met with a new IT company and are weighing our options regarding switching. Softrim has become too expensive and the service is lacking. The new company, Interlink IT, is highly recommended by multiple clubs in SWFL. The only problem is that they will not take us on as a client until March 1, 2026, as they hire additional techs.

• We’re working on revising the employee handbooks to be more in line with other communities in the area.

• AvidPay (AP software) will be going live, and training has been scheduled for December 19 at 9:00 a.m.

Golf

• Golf rounds and revenue are both up over last year and up over budget.

• Labor has been under budget.

• Inventory variance is less than $1,000. We’re working very hard to reduce the inventory on hand. To do so, our cost of goods sold has been higher than desired primarily due to liquidation of aging inventory. The good news is we have almost no older stock left.

• All tournaments in November had full fields and feedback has been positive.

• Our 40 golf carts are all running and in great shape!

• The golf committee voted to cancel the Pro-Am in December due to lack of participation, especially in the Professional division.

Food & Beverage

• We brought in a new bar stool sample for the Wheelhouse and sent a notice to owners to try it out. There was lots of positive feedback, and we will order them next week. This will be a capital contingency expense of approximately $8,500. The supplier has 12 in stock and the other 5 that we would need have a lead time of 6-8 weeks. My preference would be to install them all at the same time and not 13 now and an additional 5 in two months.

• New Year’s Eve party at Wheelhouse has 155 reservations so far with a maximum of 180 possible. Due to the lack of participation last year at Compass Rose, we have decided to serve lunch only there on December 31 so we can focus on the Wheelhouse festivities.

• A short survey was sent to members regarding Food & Beverage (F&B) operations. After only 15 hours, we received 321 responses, a 27% response rate. The survey will end on January 9, 2026. Once completed, we will create an F&B action plan to address the members’ concerns and share the findings with the Board.

• We will be getting quotes for blinds in the Wheelhouse to deal with the glare in the dining room.

• Katie Hart, F&B Administrative Assistant, resigned effective immediately. We have reposted the job and I will be highly involved in hiring her replacement.

• Music Mondays will be held at the pool in January.

Racquets

• Pickleball Boot Camp: successful Boot Camp held on 6 courts, with 24 players attending

• Pickleball & Tennis Turkey Workout: Pickleball had 10 participants, Tennis had 15 participants.

• Our ice/water dispenser machine has been repaired several times over the last few months. We are searching for different and more affordable options going forward, to save on repair costs.

• Operating supplies: We purchased new brooms, liners, shoe washer parts and drag brooms. This new equipment has increased quality of our court maintenance and will help to preserve the overall quality of the courts over time.

Golf Course and Property Maintenance

• We started the new equipment storage addition to the maintenance building compound, which should be completed this week.

• We ordered and installed new umbrellas on the pool deck table. We’re changing out the canopies now.

• We made some minor upgrades to the landscaping around the pool.

• We’re preparing to install the new water line on the new fuel dock at the Marina.

• Now that we’ve gotten bids to redo the pool, we’re looking at landscaping costs and paver costs if we decide to go that far.

Marina

• Fuel dock sign has been installed at channel entrance; volunteers installed the sign.

• Fuel dock construction is complete. New pedestals were installed for transient overnights, and water has been installed as well.

• Fuel sales surpassed budgeted estimates by 8,800 gallons.

• Marina alarm for our channel entrance has been reinstalled and is operating again.

Community Patrol

• We added an extension to the front Pedestrian Gate to keep bikers and walkers from gaining unauthorized entry.

• We replaced four outdated exterior cameras at the Gatehouse.

• We added one interior camera at the Gatehouse.

• We replaced two outdated cameras in the Fitness Center.

• We added one interior camera to the Administration Office.

• We replaced five outdated cameras at Maintenance.

• We replaced the motor in the front visitor Gate Arm.

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

RIVERSIDE

Hello fellow Riversiders!

I am honoured to have been “nominated” to represent you as the next Happy Landings “Cub Reporter” for our community. I look forward to getting to know you all better over the next few months whilst passing along “vital information”.

DAVID WEIR

david.weir1@me.com

will undoubtedly be a few amateur sleuths who will recognize the mystery neighbour well in advance of the big reveal.

My intention, hopefully with your help, will be to shine a light on our residents, promote Riverside’s 2026 itinerary, as well as to provide another opportunity for us to get to know our neighbours one resident at a time. Of course, you should be aware my spelling may default to Canadianisms and there will be amateur attempts at “humour”.

With this in mind, every month the goal of the article is threefold; that is, to provide you with a few historical points about Riverside since its inception, to talk about past and future social events, and, finally, to introduce you to one of your neighbours. To make the latter more interesting, I won’t mention the neighbour’s name until the following month’s article. I will call this section of the article “Who Am I?” and there

So let’s start with some “recent” history. The history, which came to me via previous records, was compliments of Carol Garner and Marilee Simon. The acreage that makes up The Landings and Magnolia Point was once owned by the Sutphin family from Ohio. Their tennis courts once sat where the Riverside Lake now resides. Hard to believe! In the early 1980s The Landings was developed to mirror the Town and River development. The accompanying 1990 aerial photo shows Ariel and the Riverside Marina. Spot your lot – win a prize. More history to follow in the next edition.

A 1990 aerial photo of Ariel and the Riverside Marina.

Because the deadline for each Happy Landings article is a full month before it is published – it is not possible to advertise a Riverside function unless it is scheduled more than five to six weeks in advance. Of course, we can still promote annual events and then include up to five fun photos that you will see 30-45 days after the event. For this month, I have included three photographs taken at our recent Christmas party. A great time was had by all. Excellent food, music, and company were the highlights of the evening.

Seated from left: Sister Ellenor Mayot and husband Lindsay from Steamboat, Donna Weir and her Italian Greyhound Henry with husband David, plus the rest of the clan from Canada.

In December, and as seen in the photo to the right, our family had the pleasure of hosting my sister’s family at Christmas. They spend three months a year at their place in Steamboat.

We look forward to the Low Country Boil, which is scheduled for Monday, February 23 at 5:30.

Now, I have the five clues you may need to solve the “Who Am I?” portion of this article. Unless you are one of the three new residents who moved into Riverside in 2025, one guess per household may be enough. If anyone would like to be the next “Who Am I?” subject, please reach out to me – you can be part of the monthly mystery.

Clue #1 – the mystery resident has lived here more than a year. That will narrow it down I am sure LOL.

Clue #2 – the resident has a close relative who also lives in Riverside. At this point you may guess

it’s one of the Moore brothers who both live in Riverside.

Clue #3 – the resident is a former Mrs. Minnesota. If you are still thinking it’s one of the Moore brothers, guess again! It can’t be them because they are from Ohio NOT Minnesota and I don’t believe either one of them has a “Mrs.” figure. Just kidding guys!

Clue #4 – the resident used to play the accordion in a band.

Clue #5 – the mystery resident and their significant other used to own a Bed & Breakfast. If these clues are of no assistance, please keep in mind that the answer is often right in the text you are reading.

Let the guessing begin.

The identity of the “Who Am I” will be revealed in the March edition of Happy Landings as well as on Facebook at Riverside YCE.

Finally, I want to thank my predecessors Kathy Striggow, Sherry Winters, and Joan Davison for providing me with valuable insight into this monthly mental exercise. I have given up on Scrabble now that I have Scribble!

SCHOONER

Deb and Gus Gustafson and Belinda and Ray Stacey of Schooner Village broke with our 5:00 p.m. tradition and hosted brunch at noon on New Year’s Day at the Schooner Pool. They provided Egg Bake, Egg Frittatas and Egg Quiches while other residents filled out the menu with assorted entrees, fruit and desserts.

JOAN L VANDE KIEFT vandekieft@gmail.com

January 1, 2026 was a warm, sunny Florida day.

ARIEL

Schooner residents enjoyed the New Year’s Day brunch.

The earlier than usual event was a huge success even though many residents have not returned from “the North.” The photos show neighbors sharing a meal and friendship on a perfect sunny day.

HAZEL JONES hazelwhitejones@gmail.com

The holiday season kept the residents of Ariel busy with all sorts of activities. Once again, the elves that decorate the common areas of the building came out in force. With the assistance of the maintenance staff who put wreaths and lights on the outside of the building and climbed ladders to decorate the tallest Christmas trees inside, the building and grounds glowed brightly.

The elves started working on the holiday displays well before Thanksgiving. They spent many hours putting ornaments on numerous trees, and assembling crèches, Menorah tables, winter scenes, beautifully wrapped gift boxes, hanging wreaths, and much more. All the common spaces took on a very festive air.

Holiday decorations filled the plaza level of Ariel with lights that glowed throughout the season.

Approaching the beautifully decorated Helm Club entrance was a treat.

Although everyone experienced the normal hustle and bustle the season brings, spirits were high. The Social Committee arranged a Holiday Dinner held in the Main Deck of the Helm Club on Saturday, December 6. Everything about the evening was carefully planned, with attendees greeted with a complimentary glass of champagne to set the tone for the evening.

Ariel long-time residents Nancy and Dennis Yavorsky were elegantly dressed for the party.

Ed Kennedy and Erin Conlon enjoyed a father-daughter dance.

The staff at Compass Rose, in collaboration with the Social Committee, did a superb job with the menu, which began with passed hors d’oeuvres so that partygoers could continue

to enjoy a cocktail, mingle, and chat with the neighbors before the buffet dinner.

What a dinner it was! The three entrees offered were: poached salmon with lemon dill crème fraiche, chicken cutlets with tomato basil relish and balsamic glaze, or roasted New York Strip steak. A garden salad bar, rolls, butter, sides of roasted cauliflower, carrots and tomato, and smashed red potatoes with sour cream, chives and bacon accompanied the meal. Dessert, served tableside, was crème brûlée.

December birthday girl Judy Kennedy (left) is the only person who can get Tom Jones to join wife Hazel on the dance floor.

Tish, one of the favorite entertainers at The Landings, performed nearly non-stop. Residents enjoyed dancing to her music throughout the evening. Burning off some of the calories consumed by getting on the dance floor was a wise decision and a bonus.

This year’s party has set a very high standard for future events. All the residents appreciate the effort that went into producing such a fun celebration of the season.

FLAGSHIP

PATTIE PARRETT pparrett1@comcast.net

Editor’s Note: This article should have been in the January issue. The fact that it wasn’t is entirely my fault; it came in on time as always and I somehow overlooked it. Or perhaps I was so sad knowing that this was Pattie’s last article that I had to prolong it. She has been a joy to work with, and I’ll miss her contributions to Happy Landings. Although this was meant to arrive New Year’s Day, it’s never too late to heed good advice. – Hazel Jones

On November 9 we celebrated two milestone birthdays. Richard Hickey turned 80 and Ted Shramek turned 85. Both are veterans of the Marine Corps, and interestingly, Richard was born the day before the Marine Corps Birthday (November 10) and Ted was born two days after! Diane Teeter, Kathy Spicer and

Gretchen Phillips did a fabulous job decorating and serving cake at the pool.

As I reflected on the number of octogenarians we have in Flagship (at least 25 by my latest count) it made me realize how much wisdom and knowledge we have living within our community. This article should come out around the first of the New Year, and I thought it would be a gift to anyone considering a new year’s resolution to hear some words of wisdom coming from those who lived a full life. I asked our residents what was the most important lesson they learned in their life that they would pass along to a younger person for the new year? And what would you say you know now about living a happy and successful life that you didn’t know when you were younger? I challenge you all to

consider your answer to these questions and share them with your loved ones. Here are the responses I received:

Richard and Kathleen Hickey: “Pay it forward.” Once when we were in financial trouble, friends helped us weather the storm. When we tried to repay the kindness, the answer was “Pay it Forward.”

We have been lucky enough to be able to

help others as we were helped. Also, Richard reminded us not to go to bed angry – he stays awake quite often! Richard would also add, “As a parent or grandparent, whatever you do may have a lasting impression on your children and their children – be as good an example as you can.”

Chuck and Karen Erickson: Enjoy each day and leave all your concerns and worries in God’s hands. Always count your blessings as you do take note of what happens. Then anxiety grabs his bags and slips out the back door. One heartfelt thank you will suck the oxygen out of the worries of the world. So, say it often. Focus more on what you do have and less on what you don’t. When you’re feeling down, do something for someone else.

Marlin Teeter (celebrating their 51st anniversary with wife Diane). Happy Wife, Happy Life. Remember these words: Yes, dear, you were right dear, I was wrong, dear, I won’t do it again, dear, I love you, dear.

Doug Slaggert: As far as resolutions are concerned, don’t make what you’re going to break! Getting old is tough, you get to a point when you’re too old to open your mouth and put your foot in it!

wheelchair, and she cried, “Dad, you can’t do anything anymore.” Her dad stated, “it could ALWAYS be worse!”

Ron Wolka: Say something nice to someone every day. When you are old and tired and wonder how people look at you, remember, you are being seen, not viewed!

Here is some food for thought from our gifted Carol Watson:

Equity vs. Equality

Equality is when people looking over the fence all stand in the same size box, as a result tall people can see over the fence, but short people cannot.

Equity is when people’s boxes are sized; Tall people have short boxes and short people have tall boxes. Everyone can see over the fence.

This will be my last article for Happy Landings. It has been a pleasure contributing to this great newspaper. We are looking for a new reporter. Please consider this wonderful opportunity.

I’m going to steal my words of wisdom from Mike Dooley: “Life’s not about expecting, hoping and wishing, it’s about doing, being and becoming.” Happy New Year everyone! see?

Mary Block recalls a lesson she learned when she was 12 years old. She was pushing her father (an amputee) in his

STEAMBOAT BEND EAST

“February is a friendly reminder that love happens every day.”

CAROL CUMMINS

callifleur1955@gmail.com

Stealing the idea of a community dinner at the Wheelhouse from Ariel, Steamboat Bend East planned a Holiday dinner for about 25 residents on December 11, 2025. Thanks to the wonderful planning of Jan Davis and Darlene Kratz there was great support for this “First Annual Holiday Dinner.” It was a nice festive time to plan a party and brought out some new residents to meet. Jan and Darlene planned a “Lucky envelope game,” Greg Podczaski read a modified “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” story while participants passed envelopes

Jan Davis, Dick and Kathy Langton are seated across from new neighbors Sharon and Jere Johnston. Wally and Mary Rea seated across from Ann and Larry Roy.

to the right or left. Winners won some extra cash as the story ended and each got an envelope with money in them. Jan and Darlene also made some beautiful table favors filled with holiday treats and sweets. I loved that Wally Rea wore his Santa Hat!

from

Left side: Randy Keslar, Diane Da Vincent, Kratz, Annie Farrell. Eileen Lancia at table. Right side: Carol Donohue, Jim Jim Kratz. Somehow Frank Farrell managed avoid the camera!

New Year’s Eve at the Wheelhouse 2026. Clockwise from front left: Tom and Linda Oleksa, Pat and Ty Tylander, Beth and Fred Muhleman, and Carol Cummins and Greg Podczaski.

Jere from Vincent, Darlene at head of DaVincent, managed to

The New Year’s Eve Party at the Wheelhouse drew a lively crowd. The stations allowed for a nice interaction amongst Landings friends. Some of the stations were roast beef, pasta salad, appetizers of pork wings, egg rolls, and meatballs. Others included wedge salads, grouper tacos, and an assortment of desserts. Steamboat Bend East had a significant presence and fortunately were able to sit near each other. However you celebrated, we are hopeful for a peaceful and healthy year ahead.

I like to think of the holidays as a great time to get together with friends, and this was a great start to our 2026 winter season.

Welcome 2026! Clockwise from left side of table: Barb Johnson, Allison Reardon, Skip Johnson, Denny McAuley, Mike Reardon, Peter Dahlin, Al Annunciata, Jack Hester, Dianne Hester and Jane Dahlin are missing, Angela McAuley, and Annie Annunciata.

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

TRAWLER

RICK JERR deedeelaurens@gmail.com

This month’s Trawler Spotlight shines brightly on Doug and Melissa Hall, Connecticut natives, who moved into their condo in October of 2024. Doug and Melissa attended neighboring high schools in northeast Connecticut and met as adults at Plainfield’s landmark club, The Music Lady.

Melissa attended Windham Hospital’s School of Radiologic Technology and has been employed at Windham Hospital as a mammographer for over 30 years. Doug began his career as a corrections officer while enrolled at Eastern Connecticut State University, eventually attending the state police academy where Doug served as a Connecticut State Trooper until he retired. While a trooper, he earned his juris doctorate from Western New England College and currently works as a negotiations attorney for National Association of Government Employees.

Doug and Melissa Hall.

Both are avid runners with Doug having completed the Hyannis Marathon on Cape Cod, then joining Melissa to complete both the Providence, RI, and prestigious New York City marathons together. A series of half marathons and other road and trail races kept this athletic couple busy, including the challenging obstacle runs known as Tough Mudders.

The couple still live in Plainfield, and continue to work, but make it to Fort Myers several times a year, with side trips to their favorite haunt, Key West. Doug and Melissa have four adult children. They have one granddaughter and many grands of the furry variety!

Christmas Potluck

Cheryl Naddy and Jean Boushay coordinated this year’s Christmas gathering at the pool which was well attended by Trawler residents present during the holidays. The potluck event saw a wonderful variety of dishes, and equally wonderful camaraderie. We look forward to the return of all our friends in January and a couple more opportunities to gather as a community.

WINDJAMMER

EVA BELL evabell81@yahoo.com

A total of 75 guests joined us at Picnic Pointe on a beautiful sunny afternoon for our annual Christmas Gathering. With 26 additional guests over last year’s attendance, we were glad that we didn’t run out of Christmas ham! We are expecting an even larger group next year, so we’ll definitely prepare for that. As always, the side dishes and desserts were superb and plentiful.

Our good friends and former Windjammers, Liz Welsh and Lisa Cates, played Christmas music for us. What a treat! My favorite song was “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” and they performed that song fabulously; I could not stop singing it.

Windjammer’s Christmas Gathering took place on a beautiful day!

Sad News for Windjammer

Sadly, there wasn’t a visit from Santa this year. The festive atmosphere was dampened by the very shocking news that our good friend and long-term Windjammer resident, Larry Wagner, had passed away just days prior to this event. He will be missed by all his friends in The Landings, and our hearts go out to Jackie, his wife of 63 years, and his sons Jimmy and Ronnie.

Reindeer Ray Returns

Reindeer Ray came back through Windjammer Village this December. He lives with Jan Roberts and they travel through our village from early December until Christmas Day. Each day Ray stops to see a new neighbor and surprises us with his music. He has a lovely voice that was heard at 24 different homes. I hope you met him this

Roberts

enjoyed having her daughter Jill Monahan, her significant other Dan Cepullio, and Isabella, age 3, visit from Pittsburgh.

year or that you see him next December. He is just delightful. Thank you, Jan for sharing him with us.

Friendsgiving Report

Following up on the report of the Windjammer Friendsgiving, we have received a “Thank You” letter from the Gladiolus Food Pantry. They are very grateful to our village for the food and money we’ve donated several times now. We are planning to hold another food drive in March at our last Windjammer party of the season. That is always a great time to make donations since many residents are getting ready to migrate back up North and want to clear out their pantries.

The Gladiolus Food Pantry appreciated the generosity of Windjammer residents.

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 MARCH 2026

February 1, 12 Noon