Volume 33 | NO 5 | MAY 2022 941.312.0665 | ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING | www.DELTURA-HOA.com
GOOD TIMERS’ page
PRESIDENT’S REPORT page
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IN MEMORY OF page
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CERT
page
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AT THE HYDRANT page
FISH NEWS page
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HOA AT-A-GLANCE
For more information on these HOA Sponsored Events see center section u u u
Back Home Again Photo Recap Wayward Souls John Denver Tribute photos
EDITORS’ NOTE In just a few short weeks our seasonal residents will begin to migrate north once again, and the slower days of summer will be upon us. This seems like the perfect time to step back and take a closer look at the Tower in an effort to ensure that we are continuing to meet the needs of our residents in the best way possible. To keep your paper the important community resource it has always been, we need your input. What works for you? What doesn’t? What would you like to see more or less of? Additionally, do you
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BEGINNINGS page
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TIME FLIES page
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REFLECTIONS page
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BIRTHDAYS AND ANNIVERSARIES page
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CREATIVE WRITERS page
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CALENDAR page
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have any ideas for new features/articles that you think are relevant to those who call Del Tura home, whether year-round or for a few months? To this end, we are asking you to send your ideas and suggestions to us at toweredit@yahoo.com or drop them off at the HOA office. Don’t forget to include your name, email address and phone number. Thank you in advance. We can’t wait to hear from you! We are all in this together. Cindy Swisher, Editor Karen Handley, Co-editor
HURRICANE SEASON IS APPROACHING. WILL YOU BE READY? By Lisa Bellanca
The Atlantic Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, with season peaks from August to October. Now is the time to prepare for the worst and hope for the best. Hurricanes are not just coastal problems; they bring wind and heavy rainfall to all areas of the state. The conditions presented by hurricanes can also trigger tornadoes and storm surges.
In January, the Tower included an “ALL HAZARDS GUIDE” prepared by Lee County. Please refer to this pamphlet to become educated on before, during and after storm facts. If you do not have the guide you can go to www.leegov.com/Hurricane to read or download it. Below is a Hurricane Supply list that you can use to start your preparations.
Hurricane Supply List
SHUFFLEBOARD page
Brylcream Craft Fair Update
u u
FOOD RELATED p Drinking Water - 1 gallon, per person, per day p Non-perishable food/special diet p Manual can opener p Juice / instant coffee / tea bags p Cooler p Lighter / matches p Pots / pans / camp stove or grill MEDICAL p Two-week supply of prescribed medication p Cooler with ice for medication p Medical equipment and devices p Medical alert tags or bracelets that identify your disability-related needs PETS / SERVICE ANIMALS p Water - 1 gallon, per animal, per day p Crate or carrier for each animal p Food / treats p Toys / comfort items p Clean-up supplies p Immunization records / photos
PERSONAL ITEMS p Blankets, pillows, sleeping bag, cot p Toiletries p Spare glasses / contact p Hearing aid batteries p Extra clothing, rain gear, and closed-toe shoes p Personal items such as books, toys, or cards p Infant and / or senior supplies p Important papers and valid ID p Spare Keys p Cash / credit cards / change / checks p Pens / pencils / paper SAFETY EQUIPMENT p Battery-operated radio, flashlight, television, clock p Extra batteries p NOAA Weather Radio p First Aid Kit p Landline phone p Chemical light sticks p Whistle OTHER ITEMS AND REMINDERS: p ___________________ p ____________________ p ___________________ p ____________________ p ___________________ p ____________________ p ___________________ p ____________________
TOWER DEADLINE: The 10th of the month, for the following month’s issue. All articles and flyers must be submitted in a Microsoft Word document format, or you may drop off at the HOA office in a TYPED or HAND PRINTED format only. Questions - please contact us via e-mail: Toweredit@yahoo.com or drop them at the office. Thank You
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THE TOWER
MAY 2022
941.312.0665
Mr. Sparkle
GOOD TIMERS’
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Spring is in the air and not only are we Spring cleaning…we are Spring planning! The nice weather is definitely a motivator. At each monthly meeting the Good Timers are getting more and more women joining the club to make new friends, go to monthly luncheons and to sign up for new adventures that members are bringing to the club. Right now, two of our bigger trips are a 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise on Holland America’s Nieuw Statendam this October and a 3 day/2 night bus trip to St. Augustine for the Christmas Lights Trolley tour that is scheduled for the first week in December. Last month a large group of us went to the Broadway Palm to see In The Heights, and what a wonderful evening we had! Last month we also went to Heron’s Glenn and had a delicious luncheon at their restaurant, Heron’s Nest. This month our luncheon is going to be held at Fancy’s Southern Café, a new destination for the majority of those that have signed up. Since the club has grown so much, 72 members as of this writing, it’s difficult to get everyone interested in the same things so we are breaking out and going to various events in much smaller groups. A few of us went on a walking tour in Punta Gorda
www.DELTURA-HOA.com
By Liz Poniatowski
to see the murals with lunch afterward, another small group are planning to go on the Murder Mystery Dinner Train Theater this month and a number of members also signed up to go on the Biloxi casino trip in June. The women are always bringing new ideas to the meetings and are willing to do all the work to make these trips possible. I couldn’t do it without them! The Good Timers meet the first Tuesday of every month. We gather at 4:00 to socialize and celebrate the month’s birthdays with a little something sweet to eat and then at 4:30 we begin our meeting which usually lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Dues are $30 for the year and checks should be made out to GOOD TIMERS. This month’s meeting will be on May 3rd in the Royal Palm. The club is open to all women residents of Del Tura. For more info please contact Liz Poniatowski at ciociliz@gmail.com or 239-800-2935.
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MAY 2022
PRESIDENT’S KORNER
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By Lisa Bellanca, President - Board of Directors
I have been traveling a lot this last month. It sure is a great feeling to drive through our front gate, get a friendly wave and smile, and know I am home. Last month I received an invitation to sit at the gate house to get see how it functions. I arrived incredibly early in the morning. Mike Fitzgibbons was very gracious and spent a couple of hours showing me the process involved in monitoring the traffic that goes in and out of Del Tura. Even during the early morning hours, the phone was ringing at the same time cars and trucks were entering and getting logged in. Not one call went unanswered, or one car was left waiting. They have a great system, and it runs very smoothly.
A couple of things I learned are 1) the light on Rt. 41 changes every 2 minutes, so breaks must be kept very short, and 2) the myth that there are no cameras’ monitoring traffic is absolutely not true. I have always appreciated the smiling faces and waves that welcome you to Del Tura. After my brief time in the gate house, I have an increased respect for our Gate House Staff and would like to thank them for all they do and their ability to keep on smiling! Lisa Bellanca, Del Tura HOA President
SUGGESTION BOX You can now send your suggestions to your HOA office at the following email address: DTHOASuggestionBox@gmail.com. Because everyone does not have ready access to the suggestion boxes in the Starlight Ballroom and the HOA Office, the HOA Board created an email address to make it easy for you to send your suggestions to us! Each Suggestion MUST have your NAME, STREET ADDRESS and PHONE NUMBER on it along with the issue you would like the HOA Board to address with Hometown America. Please include a brief solution along with your suggestion to help
Island Visitor Publishing
us address your concerns more quickly. You will be notified when your suggestion is brought before the BOD, and what actions will be taken regarding it. Please share your concerns with us so we can continue to make Del Tura our piece of Paradise! Your HOA Board of Directors
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MAY 2022
941.312.0665
“Dirty White Carpets Are My Specialty”
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549-7701 or Mobile
851-3102
www.DELTURA-HOA.com
In Memory of
CAROLINE BRUEGGEMANN 3/2022 BARB FABER 3/2022 CHARLIE CUNNINGHAM 4/2022, AUDREY LEVINE 4/2022
If you are aware of the passing of any of our residents, past or present, please email the information
to us at toweredit@yahoo.com or drop off at the HOA office so that we can post here as a memorial.
AROUND THE GROUNDS The grounds committee is so pleased to see all of the activity going on in Del Tura. Just to mention a few of the larger items: trees are being trimmed along the front and Gran Via, the mailbox post replacement project has begun, as well as the Clubhouse and Pro Shop painting project. Also, for your convenience we now have two towel dispensers in the courtyard to help with cleaning tables, one located at the gazebo entrance and one located on the outside wall near the pool room. Thank you for continued attention to cleaning up your table and trash before leaving the courtyard.
By Darlene Fincham
The Grounds Committee has one request from the residents - please do not move umbrellas from their original location. If you have moved an umbrella, we humbly request that you bring it back to its original location. Remember, if you see something that needs to be fixed in our community’s common areas, please send a picture with exact location and description of issue to: delturagrounds@yahoo. com and a work order request will be sent to the Administration Office. All residential concerns are to be addressed directly with the Hometown America Administration Office.
www.DELTURA-HOA.com
941.312.0665
MAY 2022
CERT INFORMATION Your Del Tura CERT Team was one of the largest represented at the N. Ft. Myers Fire Department’s Picnic. This annual event is to support all the CERT Teams in the area. The Fire Department served a fantastic lunch, all attendees received fun door prizes, and vendors provided interesting demonstrations. A fun time was had by all. The team also succeeded in raising enough money to purchase the wagon needed to store and transport the community Cribbing boards. Thank you to Steve Fincham for assembling this for us. We can check off another item from our wish list. On April 9th, the HOA and CERT hosted a Pancake Breakfast. Our portion of income from this event, which included a quilt raffle, raised more than $350. This breakfast was an enormous success. We will use the funds to purchase additional items needed for the community CERT closet. Mark your calendar, this month CERT is hosting a blood drive on May 6th from 9am-1:30pm. The event will be set up in the Starlight Ballroom. If you have any questions, please contact Bertie Dugo at 617-974-8502. Remember, hurricane season is just around the corner. Have a plan in place in case of emergency.
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239-542-9511
239-851-0982
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2022 has started out with a Check out these statistics for the first 3 months of 2022:
• Hometown America – 42 homes sold – Average selling price $142,769 • For Sale by Owner – 10 homes sold – Average selling price $125,930 • Competitors – 4 homes sold – Average selling price $106,825 This truly highlights how our Sales team works hard for you by getting the best price possible for your home. Hometown’s nationwide website has proven to be a fantastic way to highlight your home and the fastest way to get it sold, as well as our heavy volume of walk-in business to our sales office. We have a wonderful referral program: we will pay a resident $100 when they refer friends or family who buy a pre-owned home. This is a fantastic way to get your friends and family to become your new neighbor!
Call (239) 203-2867 or stop by our Sales Office and see: Cindy for Listing information; Susan and Betty for Sales
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THE TOWER
MAY 2022
941.312.0665
www.DELTURA-HOA.com
NINE HOLE WOMEN’S GOLF
By Sandy Gove
Rounding out our 2022 season, the President’s Cup, a four-day match-play event held over two weeks began April 6th and concluded April 14th. Winners are posted in the dungeon and will be announced in the next edition of The Tower. The luncheon meeting with Election of Officers was held the second day of play, April 7th. President Justine called the meeting to order following lunch and complimented the Social Committee for its efforts. Lucy Schaefer, Treasurer, was pleased to announce the results of the Play for P.I.N.K. golfing fundraiser held March 26th. A check in the amount of $18,000 will be sent to the P.I.N.K organization for its sole beneficiary, the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Congratulations and thanks to the many who helped in any way to make this event an outstanding success.
Lucy also reminded everyone that Membership dues of $30 are requested by May 1st. Please make your check payable to DTNHWGA and leave it at the Pro Shop. Kathy Klein, Membership, has announced three new members to our league: Lisa Francis, Jan Mismas and Kat Rossman – welcome all! Joint golf and lunch ‘play dates’ once a month during the summer proved to be a lot of fun last year and will be offered again this year. The Election of Officers was held, and the following nominees were elected (L-R):
By the month of May, many of our Snow Birds, including our Canadian friends, have either left or will be leaving soon: each will be missed and
are wished safe travels and a happy and healthy summer.
Vice President-Debby Taylor President-Justine Fitzgibbons Secretary-Dorothy Cook Treasurer-Lucy Schaeffer. Congratulations!
CRAFTIN’ IN “THE HOOD” Come join us on Tuesdays, after coffee until about 3:00, in the Starlight Ballroom. We quilt, knit, crochet, spin wool, and do other various crafts. We all work on our own projects, but occasionally have a class to learn a technique.
Bring your own equipment and supplies. If you bring a sewing machine, bring an extension cord as the outlets are few and far between. For more information, call Wendy Wells at 309-264-9147. I hope to see you there!
“Bocce & Burgers”
This is How We Roll. Every Sunday evening starting Promptly at 4 PM. Very Social, Non-Committal and Tons of Fun! We have Adult Beverages & Dinner at the Pub following the game(s). Let’s see How You Roll, come join us. Please contact Janet DeCosmo at 239.776.9161 for more information. NOTE: There will be no Bocce in June, July or August
www.DELTURA-HOA.com
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AT THE HYDRANT
MAY 2022 By Justine Fitzgibbons
If Dogs Could Talk Hi, my name is Sassy and Julia and Danny McDonald belong to me. Sandy and Jim Vassallo also belong to me as godparents. Matter of fact, I’m Sandy’s namesake and so very proud to be. I don’t remember much about my early days. I do know I wandered the mean streets of Pasco County, dirty, hungry and paw weary, till I was grabbed up. That’s where I spent my first time in lock-up. Running out of room, I was sent to Sarasota County: again, two meals and a cot, but caged and lonely. I worried no one would come for me. (Big Sigh!) But dogs have an uncanny way of communicating among their nation. Sure, everybody knows the pee and sniff routine. But we also hear exceedingly well and the messages I was getting were to be patient -someone just for me would come. So, I settled in and waited. Sure enough, the McDonalds showed up and came straight to my cage. It was love at first sight all around. In a whirlwind I was on my way to my new home. Life is now grand - full of walks, cart rides, treats, hugs and kisses. We’ve even gone on a road trip to watch softball games. (Shout-out to Jimmy!) Anyway, being new here, I’m still learning my way - or in other words - I can’t go after squirrels and rabbits at will, full tilt, lickety split, pedal to the metal. What I do know is I love my life, and borrowing a phrase I’ve heard, my parents may not be perfect, but they’re perfect for me. Just like Rosie and Bubba said. Cha-Ching! Please remember all dogs registered with the office, up to date on their shots, and not aggressive are welcome at the park.
Island Visitor Publishing
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Mrs. Doubtfire Services Housekeeping, Food Shopping 100% cleaned to your satisfaction using my sanitized cleaning method. Also; window cleaning and handy work.
Alda Gilbert
239-910-3427
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THE TOWER
MAY 2022
941.312.0665
18 HOLE WOMEN’S GOLF ASSOCIATION
www.DELTURA-HOA.com
By Margie Blackwell
My how time flies! It’s May 1st already! New Member Welcome to our newest member, Sue Jenkins, who has lived in Del Tura for a few years but is originally from Braintree, Massachusetts. We all look forward to golfing with you and getting to know you! Shootout and End of Season Luncheon Here are photos and the results of the recent Shootout. (9-hole event in which one golfer is eliminated on each hole)
1st Flight 1st Place Sherry Leverre 2nd Place Jeannine Fitzgerald 3rd Place Wilma Antaya
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2nd Flight 1st Place Gail Gulino 2nd Place Pat Steele 3rd Place Denise Rose At the end of the shootout, gold, silver and bronze medals were awarded to the winners. We also had two winners of a raffle, Terry Huddelson and Jean Wiley, for free rounds of golf at Del Tura. Thanks to Paula Lafreniere for organizing this event; from the qualifying golf rounds to the event itself. And a “shoutout” for organizing the luncheon and raffle which was made possible with the help of Bertie Dugo, Jane Glancy, Deb Gonsalves and Wanda Perkins.
? 0 0 $5 WITH... O D U O Y D L WHAT WOU
Think about the possibilities! With $500, you could go on a cruise for two, use it toward a shopping spree, or buy a flat screen TV – just to name a few.
Invite your friends to live at Del Tura, and you could earn up to $500* when they purchase a new home. Call 239-731-3330 for details! *Referral reward restricted to Hometown America residents. Customer must register the resident who referred them at time of their initial visit. Residents whose referral purchases a new or special-order home will receive up to $500. Residents whose referral purchases a Hometown America-owned inventory home will receive up to $300. Residents whose referral purchases a brokered home will receive up to $100. Residents who refer will receive money after closing of escrow. Other terms and conditions may apply. Call 239-731-3330 for more details.
Cruise for two
Two laptops
Domestic flight
Outdoor Grill
Patio Set
Gazebo
Flat Screen TV
Shopping Spree
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FISH NEWS
MAY 2022
Island Visitor Publishing
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By Ginnie Benjamins
Thank you to some very special people who heard my plea for FISH. Linda and Steven Petersen, Ruth Anten and Donna Wren have all made contributions this month. We are more than grateful for your kindness. New to the FISH Board are Ann Abramczyk, Carol Dubel and Linda Storma. Welcome to FISH! It is always good to have new people with new ideas. FISH is lucky to have seven wonderful Bookies. A Bookie is the person who picks up the messages that are left on our telephone line (239-997-3474). Bookies change ever week. They are Elaine Ackerman-Schnur, Sandy Boykin, Marlene DeGraaf, Mary Harrell, Liz Poniatowski, and Debbie Taylor. Andrea Driscoll heads the Bookies. The Bookie of the week picks up the messages at least twice a day and after they hear the message they get busy. For someone who called about a ride, our Bookie starts contacting our list of drivers. Once they have located a driver they give him/her the information and ask them to make contact with the person needing the ride. That way, when the time comes to be picked up for the resident’s appointment, they will already know who is driving them. Our driver takes the resident
to their appointment, waits for them and then delivers them safely back home. If the caller leaves a message because they need medical equipment, then our Bookie contacts someone on the team of volunteers who will deliver the equipment directly to the resident’s home. Our medical equipment team consists of Neil Miller, Susan Brown, Peter Moreton, Bruce Smith, and Bart DeGraaf. To all our volunteers, thank you from the FISH Board to each and every one of you. Thank you for caring about other people and giving of your time and energy.
FISH
to reach us please call 997-FISH (997-3474)
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How to be a good money manager in retirement If you reach retirement with a significant amount of assets, you’ve done a great job of saving and investing. But now comes another challenge – making that money last. You might think that this task, as important as it is, won’t be as hard as accumulating the money in the first place. Yet, a sizable number of people have reached a different conclusion. In fact, 36% of retirees say managing money in retirement is more confusing than saving for retirement, and 56% say they wish they had budgeted for more unexpected expenses in retirement, according to the Edward Jones/Age Wave Four Pillars of the New Retirement study. What steps can you take to help you become an effective money manager during your retirement years? Here are a few to consider: • Set your goals. Your money management needs will certainly depend, to some extent, on what your goals are for the coming years. Will you travel extensively? Stay close to home and pursue your hobbies? Or maybe even open a small business? Once you identify your vision for retirement, you can estimate how much it will cost, which will then dictate much of your spending and saving needs. • Stick to a budget. If you’ve followed a budget throughout your working years, there’s no reason to stop now – in fact, budgeting may be even more essential when you retire. Of course, you don’t necessarily want to force yourself to be as frugal as possible – after all, you worked hard, saved and invested so you can enjoy a comfortable retirement lifestyle. Look for reasonable cost-cutting opportunities, such as eating out less often or eliminating streaming services you don’t use. • Don’t underestimate health care costs. Even when you’re on Medicare and pay for supplemental insurance, health care costs could still be one of your biggest expenses during retirement. Initially, budgeting for $4,500 to $6,500 per person annually may be a good starting point for traditional health care expenses in retirement. However, depending on your health, prescription drug usage and other factors, your costs could be higher or lower. And you may also want to estimate long-term care expenses as part of your plan. • Look for senior discounts. Once you’re a senior, you may be able to find discounts on a wide range of items and activities, such as movies, transportation, groceries, gym memberships and more. By taking advantage of these discounts, you can save a surprising amount of money and ease pressure on your cash flow. • Establish a sustainable withdrawal strategy. For decades, you’ve been putting money into your IRA and 401(k). But once you’re retired, you will likely need to start taking withdrawals from these accounts. It’s essential that you don’t withdraw so much early in your retirement that you eventually run the risk of outliving your money. You may want to work with a financial professional, who can analyze your entire situation – assets, expenses, lifestyle, expected longevity, etc. – and recommend a sustainable withdrawal rate. Keep in mind that once you turn 72, you may be required to take out a certain amount each year from your 401(k) and your traditional IRA, so you’ll want to incorporate these withdrawals into your overall income strategy. Do whatever it takes to become a good money manager during retirement. You’ll find that it’s well worth the effort.
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MAY 2022
941.312.0665
Del Tura Contact Info Choralaires Coffee Hour - Tues. AM coordinator
Kathy Williamson
239-825-5708
Librarian
Barb Jones
239-543-6922
Del Tura Repertory Company
Jacquie Keen
239-464-5544
Entertainment Committee Chair
Dot Barilla Lynn Brenfleck
239-850-2306 603-738-1001
Fish Medical Equipment Loans
239-997-3474
Loan Closet
Denise Rose Sandy Vassallo
815-222-6466 248-755-1176
FISH - Friends in Service Here
Ginnie Benjamins, Pres. HELPLINE 997-3474
239-322-9863
FISH - Fruit Picking Contact
Sherry Plisch
239-707-5613
FMO Membership
Alberta Dugo
617-974-8502
Front Gate Guard
239-731-2523
HOA Website
Cindy Brinton
267-642-6477
HOA Membership
HOA Office
239-731-3461
HOA Office - 609 Sierra Madre (off Catalina)
Tuesday after Coffee until 12pm Wednesday 8 am-12pm 239-731-3461 Thursday 4pm-6pm
HOA GROUNDS Committee
Darlene Fincham
609-617-6869
Homeowners’ Issues/Grievances
Clubhouse Office
239-731-3433
Memorials
Kathy Williamson
239-825-5708
Name Tags
Wendy Wells
309-264-9147
Save Our Strays/ Feral Cat Information “SOS”
Sherry Plisch Karen Azza
239-707-5613 239-220-0563
Outdoor Electronic Billboard
Cindy Brinton
267-642-6477
Tower - Advertising - BrionPalmer@yahoo.com
Brion Palmer
941-312-0665
Tower - Editor
Cindy Swisher
727-542-9653
Tower - Co-Editor
Karen Handley
720-341-6352
Tower - Circulation Coordinator
Sue Brown
847-910-8031
Tower - Distribution Coordinator
Frank Bellanca Dan Larsen Sue Larsen
847-833-3258 763-360-3192 763-360-3192
Veterans Contact
David Jacobs
239-292-8834
Welcome Committee
Sherry Cottini
239-770-7711
Lighting & Sound Lighting Coordinator
Art Keen
210-279-2093
Sound Coordinator
Art Keen
210-279-2093
Please email changes to Cindy Swisher - toweredit@yahoo.com NON-EMERGENCY CALLS - SHERIFF’S DEPT. (239) 477-1000
SUBMISSION INFORMATION News Items for “The Tower” – Please email article, flyer, and photos (if any) to: toweredit@yahoo.com THE HOA WEBSITE – www.deltura-hoa.com To have events listed on the HOA Website and/or the Electronic sign please email flyer, photos (if any) & text for electronic sign to: Website Content: dthoawebsite@delturahoa.com Electronic Board: dttechsvcs@delturahoa.com
HOA BOARD INFORMATION Lisa Bellanca, President – (2025) 847-833-3258, llbellanca@comcast.net Art Keen, Vice President (2024) 210-279-2093, arkeen3@gmail.com Kathy Williamson, Director (2025) 239-825-5708, toocheep2call@aol.com Cindy Baron, Director (2025) 603-398-8001, cbaron50@yahoo.com
Susan Bell, Director (2023) 714-454-9972, susanbell_gaston@yahoo.com Laura Intini, Treasurer – (2023) 631-974-4876, lauraintini169@gmail.com Dave Tomaszewski, Director (2023) 586-567-9290, justforfun300803@yahoo.com Marylou Buss, Secretary – (2024) 612-718-7878, bussmarylou@gmail.com Will Rossman, Director (2024) 970-404-1937 - rossman.dthoa@gmail.com
www.DELTURA-HOA.com
HOA OFFICE HOURS (May-September) MONDAY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Closed TUESDAY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . after coffee - until noon WEDNESDAY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8:00am - noon THURSDAY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4:00pm - 6:00pm FRIDAY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Closed SATURDAY & SUNDAY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Closed Should you need assistance contact Ruth Ann Blevins (239) 220-9381
HOA PHONE: (239) 731-3461 HOA ADDRESS: 609 SIERRA MADRE
The Tower Editorial Staff Editor
Circulation Coordinator
Co-Editor
Distribution Coordinators
Cindy Swisher Karen Handley
Staff
Darlene Fincham
HOA Website Cindy Brinton
Sue Brown
Frank Bellanca, Dan Larsen, and Sue Larsen
Distribution Captains
Mark Donahue, Darlene Fincham, Sandy Rolando and Sandy Vassallo And 60+ Delivery Volunteers
HOA Liaison: HOA President Many thanks to all the volunteer residents who have donated their time to “The Tower”. We are looking for more volunteers. Please Help! The Del Tura Phone Book is not compiled by “The Tower”. It is produced by Hometown America. Please contact the HT office 731-3433 for errors and omissions.
GENTLE REMINDER
Please be aware that when you hire an unlicensed/uninsured person to do work at your home, you accept the liability.
LOAN CLOSET: PLEASE CALL
Denise Rose 815-222-6466 or Sandy Vassallo 248-755-1176 NOW LOCATED IN THE MAINTENANCE AREA COTS, “PACK n’ PLAY, HI-CHAIRS, ETC
FISH
MEDICAL EQUIPMENT
Anyone needing to borrow equipment from the Medical Equipment Loan Trailer. Contact FISH at 239-997-3474.
NAME TAGS Any resident wishing to purchase a “Name Tag” may do so on Tuesday mornings at coffee, before the start of announcements, or call Wendy @ 309-264-9147. A name tag with magnet backing is $8.00, cash only. Tags are normally available for pickup the following week.
Tower – Advertising Publisher: Island Visitor Publishing To advertise in print, contact: Brion Palmer at 941-312-0665 or email us at BrionPalmer@yahoo.com Contributing writers are acknowledged with bylines accompanying their submissions. Attribution for photos are not included unless supplied. We sincerely thank everyone for their contributions.Your articles help showcase the strong and diverse community that makes up Del Tura. The Tower is published monthly from October through May. Summer issues are condensed: June/July and August/ September. All ads are subject to the approval of the publisher. It is the responsibility of the party placing any ad for publication in TheTower to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance with town, county and state codes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property.
DISCLAIMER: Please be aware that when you hire an unlicensed/uninsured person to do work at your home, you accept the liability. Island Visitor Publishing is not responsible for claims made by advertisers.
www.DELTURA-HOA.com
941.312.0665
MAY 2022
SHUFFLEBOARD LEAGUE SHUFFLEBOARD LEAGUE COMES TO AN END The final results for the individual season is as follows: Advanced league was won by Glenn and MaryKay Tointon with a 37-5 record followed by Dave and Judy Lessard with a 32-10, Cyndie and Bernie Grilli at 25-17, and Lynn Brenfleck and Bruce Blackmore at 22-20. The Rookie league was won by Ted and Barb Lueck at 31-11, followed by Bruce Mars and Jim Miller at 29-13, Ken and Janice Dodge at 28-14, and Martha Anneshansley and Jane Sheaffer at 23-19. However, our tournament had a much different result! You will notice many of the top eight league finishers placed in the tournament. This shows how strong our teams were by the end of the year. Here are the tournament results:
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Island Visitor Publishing
By Glenn Tointon
Rookies League 1st place is Amy and Dave Traver 2nd place is Martha and Jean 3rd place is Ken and Janice 4th place is Bruce and Jim 5th place is Bill and Alice Kelly 6th place is Jean Wiley and Lou Annn Condon Advanced League 1st place is Len Fleming and Janet Reinen 2nd place is Judy and Dave Lessard 3rd place is Bernie and Cyndie Grilli 4th place is Marcella Carothers and Kathy Boesel 5th place is Lynn Brenfleck and Bruce Blackmore 6th place is Mary Pimental and Judy Ca Our season ended with a get together party with good food and great people. Next years league starts near the end of October so if you are interested in joining e-mail me at: glenn1947@yahoo.com. Have a great summer.
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THE TOWER
MAY 2022
941.312.0665
www.DELTURA-HOA.com
John Denver Tribute
Tom Becker’s tribute to John Denver, Back Home Again, was held on April 2, 2022 and was a big success. Thank you, Donna Wren, for these photos.
www.DELTURA-HOA.com
941.312.0665
DEL TURA HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR
By Darlene Fincham
MAY 2022
Island Visitor Publishing
13
This form may be used for initial or renewed HOA Membership, Birthday/Anniversary info and/or Tower Delivery Info. You do not need to complete each section if not applicable to your needs.
Membership Application $12 US per household, per year. Make checks payable to Del Tura HOA Names in Household: ________________________________________________________________________________ Del Tura Address: _______________________________________________________________ Renter:
The craft fair is off to a fantastic start with registrations coming in from Del Tura residents on a regular basis. Starting May 1, 2022, all prior craft fair vendors will begin receiving registration and guideline forms via email to fill the remaining spaces. If you are interested in reserving a space, please send an email to delturacraftfair@yahoo.com providing your name, address, phone number and email information. Once that info is received you will be sent the registration and guideline forms. Last year we were filled up pretty quickly, so reserve your space today. Space is saved on a first come, first served basis. We wouldn’t be able to have the best craft fair in the area without the greatest team of Vendor Helpers, Vendor Aids, Greeters, Kitchen, Shuttle Drivers and Parking Lot Attendants. If you would like to be part of the fair and a great team, please contact Karen Brassem at Tietjenkaren@aol.com.
Owner:
Phones: ____________________________________ ____________________________________________________ For the correct listing of your Birthday and/or Anniversary Birthdays
Anniversary
Name: ____________________________________
Names: ________________________________________
Month: ________________ Day: ______________
Month: _______________ __ Day: __________________
Name: ____________________________________
Year You Were Married: __________
Month: _______________ Day: ______________ Official HOA Email Pursuant to Florida Statute 617.0141 a signature must be obtained if you want official HOA email. You may opt out of HOA email at any time by contacting the HOA office or emailing DTTechSvcs@delturahoa.com. My signature signifies that I am requesting the receipt of official HOA email:____________________________
FMO MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
Just a reminder that the purpose of the FMO is to promote the general welfare of its members and endeavor to protect the rights and interests of manufactured homeowners, to be a consumer advocate for homeowners and to advocate legislatively. We have approximately 1300 homes in Del Tura, but only 384 residents belong to FMO. I would encourage residents to consider joining. Please, also consider helping to increase our Membership. If interested email me at ad4088@comcast.net ~ Bertie Dugo
GARDEN CLUB The Best Native Garden in Florida to Visit by Rosemary Eiden When visiting Miami a botanical garden that is worth visiting to see native plants is the Miami Beach Botanical Garden. It is about a city block wide and packed with plants. On a hot day it is an oasis. The Native Garden is a wild area defined by woodchipped pathways and densely planted perennial shrubs, trees and palms. Corky stem (Passionflora suberosa) attracts plenty of Florida’s state butterfly, the Zebra Longwing (Heliconius charitonius). Natives are best for attracting wildlife, especially in urban environments. Nearby plantings of Firebush (Hamelia patens), Locust Berry (Byrsonima lucida), Cocoplum (Chrysobalanus icaco) and many others provide food for birds and nectar for butterflies. Coontie is the only cycad native to Florida and the host plant for the Atala butterfly (Eumaeus atala). When we visited in March there were numerous Atala butterflies perched on the Bay Trees (where Bay leaf comes from). Atala’s are on the endangered list. It was delightful to see so many. Atala’s main food plant is the Coontie. Coontie young shoots provide food for the caterpillar. Once established the Atala will return to the same plants where the eggs are placed year after year. (Eggs can be gotten from the Butterfly House in Fort Myers). This area closest resembled a hardwood hammock in wild South Florida. Other signature plantings included Lignum-vitae (Guaiacum sanctum), and Live oak (Quercus virginiana), with epiphytic plants growing amongst the branches such as native tillandsia, orchids, and cacti.
My email (please print) is: ____________________________________________________________________
HOA-Tower Delivery Travel Plans (please do not deliver “The Tower”) If you plan to be away and do NOT wish to have “The Tower” delivered, please complete this section Name: ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Local Del Tura Address: ______________________________________________________________________________ Stop Delivery On: _________________________________ Start Delivery On: __________________________________ If you don’t know your return date, please email toweredit@yahoo.com when you have a date delivery should begin again. Also, if you wish to have your Tower mailed to your alternate address, please contact the same email address to set-up delivery (there is a charge for mailing the tower) or complete the form in the Tower or at the HOA office. Please return this form to the HOA Office, 609 Sierra Madre
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THE TOWER
MAY 2022
941.312.0665
www.DELTURA-HOA.com
www.DELTURA-HOA.com
941.312.0665
MAY 2022
DAILY ACTIVITY SCHEDULE Activity
Location
Island Visitor Publishing
15
The Daily Activity Schedule is updated on a monthly basis. Contact Sheila Doublé - toweredit@yahoo.com with any changes prior to the 9th of each month.
Contact
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Exercise Tai Chi
Marjorie Lord, 543-9072
Tai Chi Chuan Instruction
Royal Palm
Dr. Charles C. Longsworth, Ph.D. 239-945-2106
Starlight Ballroom
Deb Cali 239-567-2925
Royal Palm
Dr. Charles C. Longsworth, Ph.D. 239-945-2106
Tura Zumba / Dance Fitness
Starlight Ballroom
Water Aerobics (Oct-April)
NEW
Tap Dancing
8:00-9:00
8:00-9:00
8:00-9:00
8:00-9:00 AM
8:00-9:00 AM
8:00-9:00 AM 12:15-1:30
9:00-10:00 AM
9:00-10:00 AM
9:00-10:00 AM
Adele Guthreau - 973-865-8336
9:00-10:00
9:00-10:00
9:00-10:00
North Pool
Betty Scheetz 609-477-9147
11:00-12:00
11:00-12:00
11:00-12:00
Water Noodle Aerobics
North Pool
Marylou Buss, 612-718-7878
Yoga Relaxation
Starlight Ballroom
Dea Wells 283-5603
Therapeutic Yoga Instruction
NEW
NEW
11:00-12:00
11:00-12:00
1:00-2:15
7:00 PM
10:45-12:15
Sports Billiards, Men’s
Harry Christopher, 997-7345
Billiards, Women’s (Nov-Apr)
Ann DeGrande, 989-2206
Bocce (Nov-April)
Peggy Terrasi, 603-236-2209 peggyterrasi@gmail.com
Bocce and Burgers
Janet DeCosmo, 239-776-9161
1:00-3:00 6:30-9:30
Bowling For Fun
Bowland Cape Coral
Denise Goodell, 614-792-3024
Bowling Mixed League (Oct-Mar)
Bowland Cape Coral
Denise Rose, 815-222-6466
Fun Couples Shuffleboard League
Shuffleboard Court
Darlene Brinker 586-431-0022
4:00 PM 4:00 2:00 1:20 7:00 PM
Golf, Men’s 18 Hole League
Bill Gronek 810-990-5878
8:00
Golf, Men’s 9 Hole League
Bart De Graaf 239-599-4404
8:00
Golf, Women’s 18 Hole League
Margie Blackwell
8:30
Golf, Women’s 9 Hole League
Kathy Klein 715-927-1163
8:30
Horseshoes
Horseshoe Court
NEW
Pickleball
3:00
Jim Hinrichs 616-299-4357
Ping Pong
open play
Jacaranda Room
Lois McDonald, 505-228-1222
Shuffleboard Court
Darlene Brinker 586-431-0022
Shuffleboard Shuffleboard
Bob Brinker 586-431-0022 open play
open play
open play
Glenn Tointon 920-309-1294
Shuffleboard, Traveling Team (Dec-Mar)
Glenn Tointon 920-309-1294 Punta Gorda
Tennis, Mixed, Open
open play
1:00
Shuffleboard, Open
Softball
open play
2:00 - 4:00
Jack Blevons, 731-0892 NEW
open play
7:00-9:00 PM 10:00
10:00 12:30
Jim Hamilton 208-313-1321
5:30
5:30
Alice Harmon, 954 478 4033 allieoop33@gmail.com
8:00-10:00
8:00-10:00
8:00-10:00
8:00-10:00
Games Bingo, doors open at 6:00pm, sales end at 6:45pm (Oct-Mar)
Starlight Ballroom
Bingo (all year)
Starlight Ballroom
Bridge, Duplicate
Poinciana Room
Bridge, Open
Jacaranda Room
Ken Knight, 305-746-3782
1:00-4:00
Bunco, (*All year, 1st & 3rd Wed of each month)
Poinciana Ballroom
Darcie Rockenbough, 239-938-6865
6:00-8:30
Canasta
Jacaranda Room
Dominoes
Royal Palm Room
Ruth Anten, 997-9779
Euchre
Poinciana Room
Marcella Carothers, 731-3315
Farkle
Poinciana Ballroom
Ruth Anten, 997-9779
Hand & Foot Card Game
Jacaranda Room
Hand, Knee & Foot Card Game
Poinciana Room
Donna Moore, 543-5262
Mahjong
Card Room II
Pat Steele, 863-446-2685
Mahjong
Card Room I
Dianne Bevilacqua, 567-2234
Mahjong
Card Room I
Rheta Kanen, 731-0809
Mahjong
Card Room II
Ruth Anten, 997-9779
May I Card Game
Jacaranda Room
Denise Rose, 815-222-6466
Jack & Janet Blevons 731-0892
7:00-9:30 11:00-12:00 6:00-10:00
1:00-4:00 5:30-9:30 7:00-9:00 6:00-9:00 1:00-4:00 1:00-4:00
1:00-4:00
1:00-4:00
6:00 1:00-5:00 7:00 6:00 1:00-4:00
Pinochle
Jacaranda Room
Marcella Carothers, 731-3315
6:45-10:00
Rummi-kub
Jacaranda Rroom
Jean Cornwell 731-1580
1:00 - 4:00
Texas Hold ‘Em
Card room 1
4:00
4:00
3:00
Other Activities and Clubs Blood Pressure Readings (before coffee)
Starlight Ballroom
Card Making (Nov-Apr)
Call for location
Mary Kay Tointon, 920-309-2121 Gay Dye, 614-861-0007
Ceramics
Across from bocce court
Ruth Ann Blevins 239-220-9381 Janet Ragone 856-693-8341
Choralaires, (Sep-Mar)
8:00-9:00
9:00-12:00
David Adams, 508-284-6107
Coffee & Social Hour
Starlight Ballroom
Kathy Williamson 239-825-5708
Creative Writers Group
Banyan Tree
Nancy Davy, 239-599-4631
Garden Club, (*1st Friday of month)
Jacaranda Room
Rosemary Eiden, 813-220-9269
Good Timers, (*1st Tuesday of month)
Royal Palm Room
Liz Poniatowski, 800-2935
Del Tura MotorCycle Club Ride
ClubHouse Parking Lot Sheila & Tony Doublé - 239.628.7786
NEW
Quilting/Sewing Club
9:00-12:00
9:00-12:00
(see feature article for meeting dates)
10*
6:30 - 8:30 8:00 11:00 AM
4:00* 1st & 3rd Sundays, 8 AM
Barb Jones, 543-6922 Kathleen Quigley, 543-1067
Library, open every day Starlight Ballroom
Video Corner (check hours in the Library) Wood Carving (Nov-May)
9:00
After Coffee until 3:00
Wendy Wells, 309-264-9147 Elaine Schnur, (239) 464-0623
Ceramic Room
Bernie Forsey, 239-217-6024
1:00-3:00 9:00-12:00
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THE TOWER
MAY 2022
941.312.0665
www.DELTURA-HOA.com
TOWER NEWSPAPER When can I expect to receive my monthly TOWER NEWSPAPER? The Tower is scheduled to be delivered to the HOA office on the last Friday of the month. The papers are then divided into routes for distribution by the 46 volunteers.
These volunteers have until Monday evening to deliver them. If you have not received your paper by Tuesday morning you should call the distribution team and notify them. You will not receive a Tower unless your HOA Membership dues are paid for the current year.
HOA Tower Delivery Mailing Information If you would like to have your Tower mailed to another address while you are away from DelTura you need to complete this form and mail it or turn it In to the HOA office at 609 Sierra Madre with payment in full for the number of Issues you want mailed. The cost of mailing the Tower is USA $2.55/Canada $3.50 per issue. June/July and August/September are each one issue. Name: ________________________________________Phone #___________________________ Del Tura Street Address: ____________________________________________________________ Address to mail Tower to: __________________________________________________________ Months you want the Tower mailed: __________________________________________________ Amount enclosed: ______________________________________ (make checks out to Del Tura HOA)
www.DELTURA-HOA.com
941.312.0665
BEGINNINGS Have you ever wondered what Del Tura was like before it was Del Tura? Or how the community developed or the history of this part of North Fort Myers? Who were the first residents of our community? How did they find their way here? Beginning this month, and as often as content is available and space allows, we will include articles (and hopefully some photos) like the one’s provided here. This article appeared in the March 2014 edition of the Tower. Betty Buralli was one of the first residents of Del Tura and the picture she paints of this place is hardly what we see here today. Even so, it is good to know where
MAY 2022 By Karen Handley and Cindy Swisher we started to appreciate how far we’ve come. Thank you to Marion Evelyn, Karen Stenzel and Jim Hinrichs for passing this piece of Del Tura history along to us. If you have similar documents or photos or know someone who does, please consider sharing them with us. You can email them to toweredit@yahoo.com or drop in the Tower mailbox at the HOA Office. If you are a long time Del Tura resident and have interesting anecdotes or insights and would like to chat with us about your experiences, please contact Karen Handley at 720-341-6352 Together we can make the journey back to our Beginnings.
TIME FLIES WHEN YOU’RE HAVING FUN Your “Tower” editor has asked me to tell you what it was like to be a resident 30 years ago when Del Tura was in its infancy. Just recently the Edison Festival of Light Parade was held, and it was that same festival weekend 30 years ago when we got our first look at Del Tura. We arrived on Friday night and being February it was dark when we got here. We were expected and arrangements were made for the guard at the
Island Visitor Publishing
By Betty Buralli
gate to have keys and a garage opener for a guest house ready for us. He gave us directions to 831 Via del Sol. With only a few bollard lights burning it wasn’t easy to find. It was a charming, comfortable house and we made ourselves “at home.” As tired as I was from the flight from Pennsylvania, the procuring of a rental car and making our way from the airport to Del Tura, I was too excited to sleep.
Continued on page 20
17
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THE TOWER
MAY 2022
941.312.0665
DEL TURA MEN’S GOLF ASSOCIATION Del Tura Men’s Golf Association’s last two tournaments of the season have been completed. The Club Championship was played March 16, 17 and 23, with 73 players across five flights. Blue Flight: • 1st place: Jerry Beiermann, Club Champion • 2nd place: Dan Perkins • 3rd place: George Evangelist White Flight 1: • 1st place: Wayne Volz/Sudden Death playoff • 2nd place: Donnie Soper • 3rd place: Tony Mattoni White Flight 2: • 1st place: Jim Henriques • 2nd place: Craig Lindahl • 3rd place: Rick Antaya White Flight 3: • 1st place: Greg Roberts • 2nd place: Jeff Bartleson • 3rd place: Ron Moniz
Gold Flight: • 1st place: Darren Kilgore • T-2nd: Gary Baskerville • T-2nd: Joe Mustari The Men’s 2-Ball event was played April 6 & 7 with 100 players across five flights. Blue Flight: • 1st place: Jerry Butler & Chic Palmer White Flight 1: • 1st place: Dave Daniels & Ron Cole White Flight 2: • 1st place: Joe Angelilli & Dan Duffy White Flight 3: •1st place: Desi Pedersen & Mike Dubrosky Golf Flight: • 1st place: Joe Mustari & George Baird The DTMGA Board would like to thank all the volunteers who donated their time working the tournaments. Head Volunteer Marty Williams, Tom Banister, Les Stratton, Jack O’Hearn, Jim Vassallo,
www.DELTURA-HOA.com
By Donnie Soper
Stephen Asper, Bob Franz, Dave Klein, Frank Bellanca, Denny Roose, Jay Fitzgerald and Dickie Welch. DTMGA held the annual election of officers on March 30, 2022. 97 of the 199 members voted, with results below: Donnie Soper, President, 1-year term Dan Haag, Vice President, 2-year term Rich Buonfiglio, Secretary, 2-year term Bill Ahrens, Treasurer, has 1 year remaining President Soper assigned (with Board approval): Mark Reimer as Rules Chair; Mark Blackwell as Tournament Chair; and Jay Fitzgerald as Handicap Chair. Dave Denman will remain as Hole-in-One Chair. Joe Mustari will be the 9 Hole Rep. I personally would like to thank Dave Daniels for filling in as Acting Vice President for the past five months. Also, a shout-out to Dave Klein who stepped down this past March after serving the DTMGA board for many years. DTMGA’s next meeting will be November 2, 2022, in the Royal Palm Room at 12:00 p.m. The January Awards Dinner is coming back after a two-year absence - details to be announced.
www.DELTURA-HOA.com
941.312.0665
MAY 2022
THURSDAY NIGHT BINGO I have some “thank-you’s” I want to send out. The first one is to all of you in “The Thursday Night Bingo-Crew” for the beautiful get-well card you sent me after I had my back-surgery in Naples on March 24th. It prevented me from being there on the 31st to help my wife, Janet, and all you other wonderful people who helped her set up, and also take down, everything that Thursday night up in the clubhouse where we
run HOA sponsored bingo every Thursday night. The card with all your names was appreciated and so very thoughtful of you to send. I also want to thank FISH and Ruth Anten for the beautiful get-well cards they sent. It means the world to me knowing that you all sincerely care for me as I go through these serious health issues. Thank you all again, and that comes from the bottom of my heart.
PICKLEBALL FUN Here we are again with another addition of PB info. Let’s start with a couple more terms, keeping in mind there are many more terms that we could include, but these few that I have chosen are what I feel are probably the most common or maybe the most important. Lob - this is a shot that has been hit up in the air attempting to go over the heads of the net person(s). Be aware that this shot can be dangerous to your partner if they are up at the net and the lob is ‘short or not high enough’. ATP - this is a shot that one hits “Around The Pole” and lands the ball inside the lines on the other side of the net. Server 1 - this is the first server on the side
By Jack Blevons
By Jamie Wyman
(when it’s your side’s turn to serve) Server 2 - this is the second server on the side (when it’s your side’s turn to serve) Start - this is a term that you say at the first serve of the game Add court - when standing on the court facing the net, this is the right side of the middle line Deuce court - when standing on the court facing the net, this is the left side of the middle line Overhead - this is a shot that you take out of the air above your head (remember that you CAN NOT be in the kitchen to take this shot, unless you can reach it by stepping in the kitchen). And that’s it for this month, safe travels to those heading back. See ya in the fall.
Island Visitor Publishing
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THE TOWER
MAY 2022
941.312.0665
ATTENTION DEL TURA
TIME FLIES Continued from page 17 I couldn’t wait for morning to come so we could really see where we were. When dawn finally arrived I was like a kid at Christmastime, anxious to see what the day would bring. I’ll skip forward because no doubt you all experienced the same thing when you first came here, choosing the model home to your liking and then choosing a lot. You might not, however, had to wade through the underbrush looking for lot stakes as we did. Via del Sol was only paved to the corner of Via la Paz and it was a bumpy ride to what was to become Madera Way. (Side note – we are the only original owners left on Madera Way. Things do change.) During our introductory weekend we played golf on the only nine holes which were finished. That was what we now refer to as the South 9. Construction on the West 9 had begun and, as promised, when we came back that August to close on our house the West had been completed. This seems like a good place to talk about the courage of the first homeowners to buy here. They were Bob and Marge Kuntzler who purchased 830 Via del Sol in March, 1982. By the end of that year five more homes were purchased by what we could call “true pioneers.” Things really got rolling in 1983 with 50 homes built and closed on, and in 1984 sales more than doubled with the addition of 118 new owners. We’ve all heard of new developments which “tanked” after a couple years – promises made by the developer which were never fulfilled – but Del Tura turned out to be the exception.
Doris Meyer has asked me to tell those of you who came later what it was like living here in 1984. For one thing there were new houses (in two sections) coming through the gates every day. We were awakened each morning by the sound of hammering and nail guns building the lanais and garages, those sounds competing with the trills of the songbirds whose territory we were invading. In case you have wondered why there are so many speed bumps on Via del Sol, especially on the northern loop, it was because of all the carpenters and other workmen who, at quitting time, were in a big hurry to go home. The purpose of the bumps was to slow them down. However, all it accomplished was to create the additional noise of their pick-up trucks bounding over the bumps! The unfinished garages were a Godsend when you got caught on the golf course in the summer rains. We would look for the nearest open and unfinished garage and pull our golf carts into it to wait out the showers. If your house is on the golf course you can bet we used the garage before it was finished… Do you know about the “Del Tura Wave”? During the early years it seemed as though you knew everyone. If you hadn’t yet met everyone, you soon would. Therefore, riding down the street in your car or golf cart it was a tradition to wave to everyone you met going the other way. I still do that. Perhaps someone has waved to you and you asked your companion, “who was that?” It was probably I just being friendly.
www.DELTURA-HOA.com
The Del Tura Repertory Company will be holding auditions very soon. Actors and singers are needed for our next production. Please contact Jacqueline Keen for details at 239-464-5544.
2022 LAWN MOWING SCHEDULE Below is the lawn mowing schedule for the rest of the year
● May: 2 mows ● June: 5 mows ● July: 4 mows ● August: 4 mows ● September: 5 mows ● October: 2 mows ● November: 2 mows ● December: 1 mow
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REFLECTIONS Over the years we have all celebrated our birthdays in many different ways. As I reflect over the decades of birthdays that I have celebrated there are a few that are more memorable than others. I’m sure we all have those special memories that stand out in our minds as the best birthdays ever! If I took one memory from each decade that I have celebrated so far...on second thought that might take a little too long! Realistically speaking, I think it would be better to just focus on the most memorable over the years. Birthdays from our era may look a bit different than those of the younger generation today. They were usually celebrated with a big family dinner in our home and if there was a theme it was usually influenced by a specific T.V. character. Popular themes back then consisted of cowboys, cowgirls, and clowns. Our games consisted of Pin the Tail on the Donkey, Musical Chairs, and dropping clothespins into a milk bottle. Everyone was a winner! No child went home without a prize, or a goody bag...and no one ever complained. We didn’t have much, but we did have fun! As I remember, it was my 8th birthday. The year you ask? Somehow, I can’t remember! I do remember being so excited and couldn’t wait for my family to start coming. Oh, and I remember the pink ruffled birthday dress that Mom said that I must wear. Thinking back, it was pretty, but I had been wishing for cowboy boots and a cowgirl outfit, complete with holsters just like Annie Oakley. Somehow, ruffles were just not my style! So, I put on my best toothless smile, and
BOWLING
MAY 2022
Island Visitor Publishing
By Dianne J. Roderick thanked Mom and Dad for the present. Maybe next year...was there a pony in my future? That would definitely be my birthday wish when I blew out my candles! It seemed like forever, but our family started arriving and the excitement began to build. No presents would be opened until after dinner which seemed like an eternity to an eight-yearold. I think all of my cousins were growing impatient...they all had sweet tooths. Well, I guess that would include me and my brothers. If we had our way, it would have been straight to the cake and ice cream! Do adults ever think how anxious you are when your eight-years-old? Finally, after what seemed like the longest meal in history, it was time for my Aunt Ethel to hit those piano keys and they all sang Happy Birthday to me. I think they could hear us across town. The cake was beautiful! And guess what? I’m sure you guessed. The decorations took on a western theme complete with a corral and a beautiful picture on my cake of a Pinto that resembled Annie Oakley’s horse, Target. That would definitely be my special piece! It was time to open my presents and my cousins were getting impatient. God, they couldn’t wait to get into that cake! I began to open each present and my Dad smiled and said, “wait a minute my birthday girl, open this one first.” He had that gleam in his eye that definitely convinced me to do just as he asked. The room became silent and suddenly the only voice you heard was mine! It was the best surprise! I had my own Annie Oakley cowgirl outfit, complete with boots and a holster. The best birthday ever!
By Cindy Baron
After 20 weeks of Bowling at Bowland of Cape Coral, our final fun 9-pin no tap tournament and pizza party was held at Bowland/Nemo’s on April 5. Pin Ball Wizards, consisting of Barb Green, Bernie Forsey, Sue Brown and Danny McDonald won first place. Second place was captured by Holy Split( Sandy Vassallo, Chris Bunker, Bob Harris and Steve Stigall) and Third Place by 1/2 point, Balls and Bags(Karen Conte, Julia McDonald, Tony Durand and Denise Rose). Men’s and Ladies Winners for the 9-pin no tap tournament were first place, Dan Larson and Denise Rose, Second place, Tom Larsh and Barbara Green and Third Place, Tom Demshak and Sue Baron. Bowland of Cape Coral hosted fourteen teams on Tuesday afternoons at 1:30. This is a fun league and we had bowlers of all levels. League officers are Cindy Baron, Sue Baron and Denise Rose.
We will be looking for new players when the league resumes in the fall. If you are interested in joining, please contact Denise Rose at 816-222-6466.
CFC041684
E & M Mech.
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PROFESSIONAL PAINTING WITHOUT PROFESSIONAL PRICES! INTERIOR/EXTERIOR, OVER 30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, POWER WASHING, HOME MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS! DEL TURA RESIDENT. CALL JIM SMITH 239-247-1917 (NOV21) AIRPORT? SHOPPING? ERRANDS? LINDA STORMA, RESIDENT DEPENDABLE CALL (239) 997-9066 (JUN/JUL21)
LOCKSMITH: DEL TURA RESIDENT AUTO/HOME LOCKOUTS, LOCKS REPAIRED, INSTALLED OR RE-KEYED. DEL TURA RESIDENT. LOUIS RIVET 543-1434 (OCT21) HOUSE CLEANING SERVICE, DEL TURA RESIDENT: RELIABLE, HONEST, & FRIENDLY SERVICE. DEL TURA RESIDENT. CALL KAREN @ 603-543-7457 (OCT21) AVON PRODUCTS SOLD BY DEL TURA RESIDENT. CALL PAT 239-800-5057(HOME) OR 631-838-4323 (CELL) (FEB21) GIRL FRIDAY – RELIABLE & TRUSTWORTHY. HOUSECLEANING, ETC. DEL RESIDENT. CALL LINDA 239-560-1948. (APR21) GARAGE DOOR & OPENER SERVICE: CALL JIM O’BRIEN AT 239-849-1644. D.T. RESIDENT. (AUG/SEPT 21) HANDYMAN - PAINTING, LANDSCAPING, POWERWASHING & REPAIRS. EXPERIENCED RESIDENT. CALL JOHN AT 757-952-9485. (NOV21)
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WE BUY AND SELL OLD COINS, JEWELRY AND COLLECTIBLES OF ALL KINDS. DEL TURA RESIDENTS WILL & KAT ROSSMAN. 989-1757. WWW.ESTATEBUYZ.COM (DEC21) NEED A NOTARY? CALL BRENDA BLASIE A DEL TURA RESIDENT, AT 239-543-6104 INDOOR PAINTING – RELIABLE, REASONABLE AND HONEST. NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL. DEL TURA RESIDENT. CALL KAREN 518-802-0277 LANDSCAPING RELIABLE WITH REASONABLE RATES GUTTERS, ROOF CLEANING, PALMS, MAINTENANCE AND OUTDOOR INSTALL JOBS INCLUDING SOD CALL CHARLES @ 239-440-9148 “WHO LET THE DOGS OUT” I’LL WALK YOUR DOGS OR WATCH OVER THEM WHILE YOU ARE AWAY. REFERENCES IF NEEDED.SUSAN @ 303-725-0666 DON’T LEAVE YOUR HOME UNPROTECTED AGAINST RODENTS AND INSECTS GET SHIELDED! SHIELD HOME & PEST CONTROL (239) 910-1133 WWW.SHIELDPCS.COM VETERAN OWNED LOCALLY OPERATED ASK ABOUT SPECIAL RATES FOR DEL TURA RESIDENTS
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By Michael Johnson More Travels with Mike.... You all remember my friend John, with whom I traveled to California, stopping along the way in Glacier National Park. Well, upon our arrival in California (we had taken the northern route and drove from Seattle to northern California), we were sooo excited to be at our final state destination, we could hardly wait to finally swim in the Pacific Ocean!! The car we were driving was a Volkswagen Variant, a station wagon, standard shift with a black racing stripe down the entire length of the car. The car was a rusty red in color and just dependable as all get out. John was driving and when we arrived at what appeared to be a quiet and beautiful stretch of beach, John drove onto the beach. Big mistake! The car immediately became stuck in the dry sand and the more we tried to free it from the sand the deeper it became entrenched. John, while a good traveling companion, was adept at making wrong choices. Picking a nice, quiet, and relatively unpopulated area of beach where there were no helping hands available was a major blunder. We decided to go swimming and forget our woes. The water was very cold compared to our east coast Atlantic Ocean. We were enjoying our brief respite from our circumstance when three young men appeared. John immediately approached them and asked if they could offer some assistance in getting our car unstuck. They were about our age and joked about driving onto the beach. One of the guys suggested we look for something which would provide some traction. John grabbed my sleeping bag out of the rear of the vehicle, placed it under the rear wheels and with some encouragement from the three “helpers” engaged the transmission and proceeded to wrap my sleeping bag TIGHTLY around the rear axle. So tightly in fact, we had to cut it away with a knife, thereby rendering my sleeping bag useless. We gathered some pieces of wood and slowly were able to get the Volkswagen free of the sand. The three fellows who had assisted us had come to the beach to surf. John asked one of the guys if he could try surfing. He had never surfed and told the fellow who seemed the most in favor of letting him use his board, exactly that. While the three surfers and I talked about California, surfing, girls, my sleeping bag and a host of other topics, John was “surfing”. I noticed his approach. He had one half of the borrowed surfboard under each arm! It took a minute for the young man who let John borrow his surfboard to realize what he was looking at. John had to explain he had no money to pay for the broken board. We had nothing to barter except John’s sleeping bag, which was a beautiful L.L. Bean All Weather Sleeping bag. Well, I guess you’d call it Karma, no sleeping bag for me and now, no sleeping bag for John. See you next month.
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BIRTHDAYS AND ANNIVERSARIES 5/01 5/01 5/01 5/01 5/01 5/01 5/02 5/02 5/02 5/02 5/02 5/02 5/03 5/03 5/03 5/03 5/03 5/04 5/04 5/04 5/04 5/05 5/06 5/06 5/06 5/06 5/06 5/07 5/07 5/07 5/07 5/07 5/07 5/08 5/08 5/08 5/09 5/09 5/09
MAY BIRTHDAYS
Mary Clezadlo Ken Estabrooks Eugene (Chic) Palmer Michael Parker Verna Sheldon Marie Wickert Diana Beccue Adele Guthreau Terry Kinzel Ralph Rotondo Martha Stockinger Mary Ann Wuerdeman Kenneth Duquette Denise Hollenbeck Robert Malonson Pam Price Don Williamson Patricia Duquette Ricky Hollenbeck Kay Rolader Micki Sullivan John Umberger Carol Cerami Victor Klamans Nancy Moyer George Storminger LaDonna Tessmer Donna Carr Jan Laughman Judy Michael Barbara Newman Greg Roberts James Saad David Paugh Joseph Zadrozny Karen Moehrie Allen Clark Frank Gianino Chuck Selbach
5/10 5/10 5/10 5/11 5/11 5/11 5/12 5/12 5/12 5/13 5/13 5/13 5/13 5/13 5/14 5/14 5/14 5/14 5/14 5/14 5/15 5/15 5/16 5/16 5/17 5/17 5/17 5/17 5/17 5/18 5/19 5/19 5/20 5/20 5/20 5/20 5/20 5/20 5/21
David Adams James Tranchitella Edward Wills Dennis Andrews Carol Hancock Trish Rogers Barbara Clancy Paul Hartenberger Eddie Jordan Bobbie Asper Bonnie Carroll David Lane Cheryl Vogel Ray Hatem Albert Bartoletti Jr Ken Dodge Gay Dye Catherine Noto Carol Parker Mary Jane Wolfe Patty Boquist Melanie May Karen Handley Donna VanDuiven Gail Dellar Peter Israel Joseph Noto Edna Smith Keith Swisher Nan Lednik David Dittmann Rosemary Linde Rosalie Christopher Nancy Harris Donna Hyatt Gail Lawrence Suzanne Montgomery David Scheetz Shirley Banko
5/21 5/21 5/21 5/22 5/23 5/23 5/23 5/23 5/24 5/24 5/24 5/24 5/25 5/25 5/25 5/26 5/26 5/26 5/27 5/27 5/27 5/28 5/28 5/28 5/28 5/29 5/29 5/29 5/29 5/30 5/30 5/31 5/31 5/31 5/31 5/31 5/31 5/31
Germaine Duffy Marlys Norve Sylvia Slosarski Joseph Sr Walsh Kenneth Abramczyk Jeanne Csuy Denise Gronek Robert Smith Jean Cornwell Pat Dinitto Mike Mitzlaff Tim Randolph Steve Baney Peggy Huntley Leslie Stratton Jr Tom Bannister Marlene Haag Brad Hammond Peggy Deems Russ Geren Ron Wehrs Whitey Best Bill Hyatt Marian Moore Marcia Peterson Bob Lefrancois Curtis Nakaishi Tony Santos John Welch Don Dowell Shirley Hornig Frank Bellanca Kim Best Art Hurlburt Alice Kozik Shirley Matlin Barbara Urbanke Sharol Zimmerman
MAY ANNIVERSARIES 5/01/85 Michael & Janice Dubrosky, 37 years 5/03/86 Jeffrey & Jacqueline Ritrovato, 36 years 5/04/63 Larry & Joyce Scialabba, 59 years 5/04/68 Ed & Connie Regan, 54 years 5/05/51 Fred & Donna Kostrick, 71 years 5/05/93 Jim & Barbara O’Brien, 29 years 5/06/05 Jerry & Debbie Wiegert, 17 years 5/06/89 Richard & Sandra Morgan, 33 years 5/07/89 Marc & Lori Morrison, 33 years 5/09/13 Frank & Debbie Gianino, 9 years 5/10/03 Ron & Bonnie Willin, 19 years 5/11/74 Jim & Sue Hooper, 48 years 5/14/71 Francis & Diane Furlong, 51 years 5/16/87 Dave & Lisa Gabrielcik, 35 years 5/17/90 John & Gail Millson, 32 years 5/19/64 David & Nancy Olson, 58 years 5/19/73 Stephan & Bobbie Asper, 31 years
5/1960 Edward & Barbara Wills, 62 years 5/20/54 John & Marian Moore, 68 years 5/20/77 Mark & Janet Huss, 45 years 5/22/71 Dick & Kathleen Boesel, 51 years 5/22/71 Patrick & Deborah Roush, 51 years 5/23/70 Charles & Cookie Feiner, 52 years 5/23/96 Jeff & Missi Polglaze, 26 years 5/24/12 John & Yow Norton, 10 years 5/24/86 Robert & Sharol Zimmerman, 36 years 5/25 Ernie & Kathy Page, ? Years 5/25/68 Barry & Sharon Plisch, 54 years 5/25/91 Don & Carol Dowell, 31 years 5/27/00 Bill & Alice Kelly, 22 years 5/27/92 Rudolph & Diane Brodsky, 30 years 5/28/77 Keith & Cindy Swisher, 45 years 5/29/87 Jon & Vicki Kehl, 35 years 5/29/98 Patricia & Kenneth Duquette, 24 years
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MAY 2022
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FROM THE CREATIVE WRITERS WORKSHOP Introduction: Our Creative Writers Workshop has had another successful run. As you read this, we will have officially wrapped up our third season (at the end of April). Just a reminder: For those of you who like to write, or would like to try, please think about joining our group in the fall. We meet twice a month, and I will update The Tower as to time and place before we start up again. If you are interested, you can call or email me. My home phone (with an answering machine) is 239-599-4631. My email address is ndavy01@gmail.com. You’ll need to provide me with your name, your email address, and your cell phone number so that I can reach you with a reminder before each meeting. Here’s a challenge from a recent gathering and some responses to it: Challenge Seven: Expressing our Deepest Emotions This next challenge is intended to draw upon some of our deepest emotions and help us to express them. We have all lost someone we love. The object of our focus is a cemetery – either one where a loved one is at rest, or perhaps another whose occupants are unknown to us. Try to write a poem or a free-style article about the surroundings, a particular person, or people. The purpose of this exercise is to discover a broad range of substance as we observe many conflicting emotions, such as grief, loss, shock, helplessness, anger, gratitude for our own life and blessings or fear of death. Most importantly, it is to learn the healing value that putting our pain on paper can provide, to ourselves and to others who may also be experiencing loss and struggling to cope. Example: The Cemetery By Nancy Davy (from my book Tears From My Pen and Dreaming In Color) Your name on a small marker indicates you’re there Buried underneath a shroud of snow I cannot feel your presence and stare emptily And feeling unfulfilled, I turn to go. There is another there you co-exist with A small life that preceded yours beyond A weathered cross leans wearily into the breeze And plastic flowers whisper, “They are gone!” Your small plot is surrounded by strange neighbors Their cold granite marquees scream out their names And family members often make their pilgrimage To pay homage to reminders of their pain. I will not try to frequent this new habitat Don’t look for me as Spring warms earth and skies Please understand, your monument lives in my heart And I visit every time I close my eyes. Challenge Seven: Expressing Our Deepest Emotions by Joan Kachel The scent of the freshly mowed grass fills me with memories of summers at the farm. We had such special family times there. Now they are all gone, and so are you and Dad. I imagine you both now, frolicking around where I cannot see you.
I see the rows and rows of headstones glinting in the sunlight, amidst the freshly mowed grass under a blue cloudless sky. The pain of having you gone is like a burning sword inside of me. That is a difficult feeling to describe. Thoughts of you and all we have done together are like a comforting cool blanket around the pain inside me from being unable to touch you. Challenge Seven: Expressing Our Deepest Emotions by Charlotte Ping Lt. Col. James Lindou, 1964 graduate West Point Stark white gravestones in a correct military line Have been standing at attention for a very long time The familiar gray building up on the hill shelters the cemetery below from the winter’s chill. The burial ground at West Point is a magnificent sight Where my brother rests, keeping guard day and night. For so many years we were so close. I’m not sure what I miss about him the most. It’s hard to lose someone so dear to you, But what makes it even worse Is that he was my twin, Which is a double curse! We were inseparable, almost from birth And being without him has been hell on earth. But he’s in good company with George Custer, John Eisenhower, Norman Schwarzkopf, William Westmoreland, and astronaut Ed White. I feel better knowing he’s with them each morning and night. His last wish was to go back to the long gray line. He is now there with them until the end of time. Challenge Seven: Expressing Our Deepest Emotions At The Cemetery by Lucille Mineo When we searched for your resting place, It was a hot day in June. We chose a site we thought you’d like, Close to where colorful flowers bloom. The cemetery is like a park Where no tombstones stand. Overlooking your spot is a gazebo, Housing Jesus with a raised hand. Your name is etched on the stone Which is flush to the ground. Vases are attached to hold flowers, To show that we’ve come around. It’s so hard to imagine that there you lie, So still and far away. My heart is broken and torn apart As I stand here and cry. Your brother and his wife are there next to you, Close by as they were in your life. It gives me comfort to know that you’re not alone While waiting for my mother; your wife. As I turn to leave, my sadness is overwhelming. I want to scream to the heavens, “Why?” A mystery never to be answered In spite of my often-whispered, “Good-bye.”
By Nancy Davy
Challenge Seven: Expressing Our Deepest Emotions The Cemetery by Cindy Swisher This is a result of my visit to the Civil War Cemetery in Atlanta. There is a large section devoted to soldiersmost of whom died in the Battle of Atlanta - who were not identified. No one knew who they were, how old they were, or where they came from. Right down the path was a small area where slaves were buried. Some of the ladies of the city felt that slaves also deserved marked graves and purchased the small plot of ground. It was a very sobering thing for me to see, and so I chose to write about it. Wave after wave of solitary white beacons on a sea of verdant green. Altogether weathered and worn; most bent with age. A few are missing, with only a patch of dusty earth to mark the spot where they once stood. Some bear only a single year, 1864, etched in the emptiness of the cold, hard stone. Some have more, a regiment, a commander, or for a lucky few, both. None bear names. Most are barren fields of rotting granite, eerily empty. Who lies beneath these solemn markers? Whose son, father, husband, friend? Who gazed out the window day after day, year after year, hoping for one who never returned? What was it like to be alone, afraid, far from home? Left to die on a bloody field. No one to whisper a word of comfort, No one to ask your name. Farther down the tired path, tucked away at the bottom of a gentle hill, lies another resting place. No white stones here, just empty spaces where wooden crosses once stood proud. This patch of ground, the vision of a few brave women who believed all men deserved a final resting place, is small and tucked away where few will find it. Not many of their neighbors felt the same. Ironic that in the end the soldiers who fought to keep men bound and the property they sought to hold lay side by side in unmarked graves. A stark reminder that eternity comes for us all, No matter rank, or station, or color of skin. And what remains will be remnants, Bits and pieces of what was and what might have been.
May 2022 Sunday
Monday 1
May Day
Tuesday
Wednesday
2 National Brother’s and Sister’s Day
3 TICKET SALE HOA Wayward Souls
8
9
10 TICKET SALE NON HOA Wayward Souls
15
16
International Family Day
4 Star Wars Day
National Teacher’s Day Mother’s Day
Thursday
17
Friday 5
Cinco de Mayo
12
23
24
RedNose Day
29
18
World MS Day
31 TICKET SALE HOA Brylcream
13
19
14
20 National Rescue Dog Day
25 Movie Night 7PM Movie TBA Starlight Ballroom Free Popcorn!
30 Memorial Day
7 Kentucky Derby
HOA Board Meeting 7PM Starlight Ballroom
GENERAL TICKET SALE Wayward Soul
22
6 National Nurses Day Blood Drive 9:00-1:30 Starlight Ballroom
National Day of Prayer
11
Saturday
26
27
21 Armed Forces Day
28 National Burger Day