Simply Ave Maria Holiday 2024

Constitution Minute

BROUGHT TO YOU BY HILLSDALE COLLEGE

America was founded on the idea that human beings are born with natural rights, such as the rights to life, liberty and property. A person who holds this view of rights makes no demands on others except to respect those rights.

Today however, many Americans talk about rights to a college education, state of the art medical care, and even birth control pills.

These are rights understood as entitlements, and a person who holds this view of rights is making claims on other people’s money and resources.

This understanding of rights not only sets citizens against each other, but it undermines the whole idea of natural rights.

OWNER/PUBLISHER

Chad Beatty

MAGAZINE DESIGNERS

Kelly Schoonbeck

Kacie Cotter-Harrigan

ADVERTISING DESIGNER

Ana Sosa

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Beck Bruehl Bestul

Jorge & Karla Cebreros

Chef Trevor Ganzi

Colleen Coleman

Kevin Creighton

Mary Harp-Jirschele

Chad Kish

Sharon Levesque

Lauren Maxwell

Logann McElfresh

Megin Potter

Kate Sherwin

Rachel Sheffey

Kate Towne

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Randall Perry Photography

Jorge Molina

PUBLISHED BY OIL WELL PUBLISHING Ave Maria, FL

Cover Photo by

JORGE MOLINA, FLORIDA URBAN PHOTOGRAPHY

contributors

BECKY BRUEHL BESTUL

A resident of Ave Maria since building a home here in 2015, Becky Bruehl Bestul is an award-winning, former print and broadcast journalist from Wisconsin who later entered the business world. After retiring from corporate management, Bestul sought the Florida sunshine with her husband, John Bestul. She immersed herself in the community supporting a number of volunteer activities. Writing is her first love and she looks forward to sharing the stories of the area. The Bestuls live in Maple Ridge with their two dogs. They enjoy hosting friends and family (especially their grandchildren) and introducing visitors to the uniqueness of Ave Maria.

CHEF TREVOR GANZI

An Italian American chef from Ave Maria, Trevor has over 15 years of experience. Coming from backgrounds of Michelin recognized restaurants from farm to table to classic french, we know how to cater to all personalized requests. Specializing in Italian, French, American, and Mediterranean cuisines. Owner of Ganzi Hospitality LLC that works in 10 different states that brings events to your home with a private chef experience or food truck Capeesh Italian Street food for a more casual event.

MARY HARP-JIRSCHELE

Mary started playing with her dad’s L.C. Smith manual typewriter as a child in the 1960s, and followed him into the newspaper business as a teenager. After 20 years in smoke-filled newsrooms chasing ambulances for stories, she joined the world of corporate communications where her passion for non-profits was born. She went on to run two private family foundations helping to solve world problems, one person at a time. She and her husband Jeff found their retirement nirvana in Ave Maria five years ago and haven’t missed Wisconsin winters one little bit.

KATE TOWNE

Kate is wife to a really good man and mom to their seven sons, as well as a professional writer, college-level writing tutor, and high school Spanish teacher. Her work has appeared both in print and online in such places as the Saratoga TODAY family of publications, CatholicMom.com, Nameberry, and Mothering magazine; she also wrote a book entitled Catholic Baby Names for Girls and Boys: Over 250 Ways to Honor Our Lady (Marian Press, 2018). You can email her at kmtowne23@gmail.com.

LOGANN

MCELFRESH

Logann is a Naples based designer with Indiana roots and a strong passion for designing inviting and beautiful homes for clients. She graduated from Purdue University and earned a degree in Interior Design, coupled with a minor in Construction Management and a Certification in Entrepreneurship. Since moving to Naples in 2020, she has gained residential design experience in neighborhoods such as Port Royal, Grey Oaks, Bay Colony, and Pelican Bay. No matter the scale/scope of the job, she enjoys closely working with the clients to customize for their specific needs and wants. When she is not designing, you will find her exploring the great outdoors. Her love for nature and staying active inspires her to incorporate natural elements and inspiration into her designs.

LAUREN MAXWELL

Lauren Maxwell, Executive Vice President of "MAXWELL MORTGAGE TEAM" at CrossCountry Mortgage, is known for her catchphrase, "Financing the world one loan at a time." With 37 years of experience, she specializes in FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loans. Serving Ave Maria and Naples, she is the top female loan originator at CrossCountry Mortgage, closing over 4,100 loans totaling $1.3 billion since 2018.

MEGIN POTTER

Megin is an expressive writer and artist with work published in books, newspapers, corporate communications and online. As a mother to her active young son, she is inspired to explore interesting people and places.

KEVIN CREIGHTON

Kevin Creighton works full time for the world's largest gun rights organization and is the owner and head trainer at Quietly Armed, a firearms training company located in Ave Maria. He has completed over 1000 hours of firearms training from some of the top schools and instructors in the country and is certified to teach firearms classes by the NRA, Rangemaster and Defense Training International.

COLLEEN COLEMAN

Colleen Coleman is the owner of CMC Design Studio LLC and is well noted by her clients for bringing high energy, attention to detail, organization and more to each project. Her collaborative efforts with clients, as well as others in the industry, translates to a comprehensive design to completion for her clients. Her unique approach to defining each space matured into what she has coined as “Creating Environments for Life”

from the publisher's desk

Welcome

to the FIRST EDITION of ‘Simply Ave Maria.’

Why ‘SIMPLY’?

Well, because it’s Simply…Ave Maria. A little bit of something for everyone: family, homes, sports, brides, trips, business, decorating, fashion, faith, etc.

It’s your new high-end lifestyle magazine, published quarterly, about life in Ave Maria and Collier County. Yes, Collier County also. In each edition we will branch out of our 5,000-acre slice of heaven to explore our county’s rich history, unique homes, and fun day trips. But don’t worry, our focus will always be Ave Maria.

Did I mention this is our holiday edition? That means gift ideas, recipes, clothes, and lots of events to mark on your calendars! And if you have a knack for style and a love for holiday decorations, we want to hear from you. We are looking for a local home to feature in our 2025 holiday edition of Simply Ave Maria! But we need to take the photos this year… will your home make the cover???

Do you have a story idea, daughter getting married, award-winning local photo, or a question about the town? If so, simply email or call and we will take it from there.

And of course, THANK YOU to our advertisers, for without them we couldn’t produce this magazine and offer it free of charge. Please visit their business or utilize their services.

In closing I want to wish everyone a blessed Thanksgiving and Christmas filled with love, laughter, and memories.

See you in January for The Winter edition. God Bless.

- Chad

Photo by Florida Urban Photography

Friday, December 6

HOMETOWN CHRISTMAS | Ave Maria Town Center

Join your friends and neighbors as the town comes together for the annual Christmas Parade featuring marching bands, dancers, decorated golf carts and entertainment along with vendors and food trucks. 3pm-9pm, with parade beginning at 6pm.

Saturdays November 2–April 26

AVE MARIA FARMER’S MARKET | Town Center

Browse and shop locally sourced goods and services with entertainment from 9am-2pm every Saturday.

Tues. November 26 - Sat., November 30

NORTH POLE ON THIRD THANKSGIVING WEEK

Fleischmann Plaza, Naples

Live Christmas Music from 4–7pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. The Original Naples Snowfall is forecasted for 7pm nightly.

Fri., November 29 - Tues., December 10

JOHNSONVILLE NIGHT LIGHTS IN THE GARDEN Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr., Naples

Celebrate winter in the tropics with a seasonal staple that is distinctly Southwest Florida. Enjoy live music each night, photo ops, a living bromeliad tree, and festive treats. For tickets visit Naplesgarden.org.

Sat., November 30 and Sun., December 1

AVE MARIA HOLIDAY ART & CRAFT SHOW | Town Center

From 10:00am-5:00pm. A unique blend of boutique art and artisanal crafts, from intricate jewelry and pottery to hand-woven textiles and elegant home décor, plus so much more!

Thursday, December 5

TREE LIGHTING IN IMMOKALEE

Zocalo, 107 N. 1st St. Immokalee

Annual Tree lighting from 6-9pm at Immokalee Zocalo featuring pictures with Santa.

Mon., December 9 - Wed., December 11

ADVENT RETREAT | Ave Maria Parish Church

Join us in reflecting on the Advent season from 7-8:30pm. Come one night or all three. For more information visit AveMariaParish.org

Sunday, December 15

NATIVITY PLAY | Ave Maria Parish Piazza

Take a break from busyness to watch our local Nativity Play at 3pm on the Parish Piazza in the Town Center. For more information visit AveMariaParish.org

Saturday, January 18, 2025

AVE MARIA PRO-LIFE MARCH

Ave Maria University Football Field

Gather at 10 am at the AMU Football Field to hear the guest speakers, followed by the march to Ave Maria Parish.

Saturday, January 25, 2025

STEAK COOK-OFF | Ave Maria Town Center

In its 15th year, The Sunshine State Steak Cook-Off has become the largest steak competition east of the Mississippi, with more than 2000 steaks grilled. This family event features food, music, games and fun. All proceeds are donated to charity. To register as a grill team or to purchase tickets, visit sssco.org.

calendar of events

hometown

Hero

Ave resident nearly died after being shot while intervening in domestic violence incident.

WRITTEN BY BECKY BRUEHL BESTUL | PHOTOS PROVIDED

....Thursday, August 22, 2024...

Collier County...9-1-1 call...8:48 a.m....

“I’m currently driving, I just entered Ave Maria. I am being followed….he’s currently following me so I don’t want to pull over,” the woman tells the 9-1-1 operator. There are four children in her vehicle. Her voice is fearful. “I’m trying to get away from him…!”

The operator gets names and is trying to direct the caller to the fire station in Ave Maria, somewhere safe. “He’s driving crazy! Stop!....He’s chasing me!...I don’t even know where to go…he’s driving crazy!...I’m trying to get away from him and he doesn’t stop!” Muffled sounds of chaos. “He crashed into me!” There is screaming. “Stop!...Please hurry!....Please! Help me! Help me!...I’m right here in Ave Maria…Stop!...My kids are here!” There is screaming. Her pursuer is trying to break the glass windows of her vehicle with a hand gun. The woman tells the operator that a man has come out (of a house). “No, stop! Please stop!...He has a gun!” Children are heard screaming. “He has a gun! He has a gun!... Stop!... Help me!” A child cries. “Mommy!”

There is commotion, muffled voices, and more screaming. The recording picks up police sirens. “Oh my God, he took off! He shot the guy!” The woman tells the operator the type of vehicle the assailant is driving. There are other voices. They sound caring. “Please help me…

I’m scared he’s going to come back…. He broke the glass, he shot the glass…my daughter is bleeding. I think she has a cut on her foot.”

Officers arrive. An ambulance has been dispatched. “It’s okay, baby,” she says to her daughter. “It’s okay, they’re going to come.” The 9-1-1 operator disconnects the call and leaves the woman in the hands of the responding officers.

“The guy” who was shot, the man who stepped into that dangerous domestic violence situation and very likely saved the lives of the woman and her four children that day, is Ave Maria resident, Manuel Milanes Pizonero.

Manuel was still in his pajamas the morning he heard the crash in his front yard at the corner of Roma and Iron Horse Way. His wife, Kenia Rodriguez Milanes, translating his Spanish, said he went outside and saw a man trying to get into a vehicle. Manuel asked the man if he needed help, thinking the crash hampered the man’s ability to open the doors. After Manuel retrieved a tool he thought could break the window, the woman rolled down her window slightly and told Manuel that she feared the man was going to kill her and her children. He said the man pointed a gun at Manuel and told him to get back in his house.

Manuel returned to his house but retrieved a gun. When he went back outside, the man had broken a window and was entering the vehicle, one of the children inside was bleeding. Manuel pointed his gun at the man and told him to give him his gun. “I don’t want to kill you,” Manuel said. It appeared as though the assailant was going to relinquish

his gun to Manuel, but instead there was a struggle and he shot Manuel who immediately went down. The bullet went through Manuel’s arm and into his chest.

The shooter pulled the trigger two more times according to Manuel who said he heard those bullets whiz past his head but neither hit him. He heard police sirens and the man fled.

Manuel said he felt no fear during the altercation, just a determination to protect the woman and her children. “I was not going to allow a woman and her kids to be killed in front of my house.” He said he looked at the children in that vehicle as his own family. “If I would have stayed in my house, I would have failed…I would have felt like a coward.”

Manuel remained conscious after being shot despite losing a massive amount of blood. He said he prayed the entire way to the hospital while the emergency personnel encouraged him. They told him he was a hero, and they weren’t going to let him die.

Manuel is grateful to the responding officers, rescue personnel and the medical team at Lee Health in Fort Myers for their role in saving him. From the sheriff’s deputy, Richard Jacobs, who literally stuck his hand in Manuel’s chest to stem the bleeding, to a first responder named after Manuel’s favorite Saint Lazarus, to a surgeon named Mary, they all felt like family to Manuel.

He believes God had a hand in it all. “There are too many coincidences,” he said.

“There are so many corners in Ave. That this happened on my corner, God doesn’t make mistakes.”

During the first of two surgeries, Manuel’s heart stopped three times, and he needed 30 units of blood. Several days later he had a second surgery. He was left with 60 staples and some bullet fragments in his chest because it was too dangerous to remove them. He said medical experts told him it was a miracle he survived.

Manuel lives in Maple Ridge with his wife and two children, son, Manuel Jr., 17; and daughter, America, 7. The couple happened across Ave Maria seven years ago on their way from the east coast to a baby shower in Lehigh Acres. They saw a sign for Ave Maria. “We were like, that’s our Lady,” Kenia said.

They stopped to visit Ave Maria on their way home and eventually decided to try it for a year. “We wanted quiet and peaceful and here we are seven years later,” she said.

Manuel, who was born in Cuba, is an entrepreneur owning several businesses. He is also a public figure fighting against the Communist regime in Cuba. From his home studio he broadcasts to nearly 200,000 followers on YouTube and receives about two million views per month. Because of his work, he said he is on a Cuban terrorist list and if he would try to return to Cuba he would be jailed.

Manuel is grateful to the Ave Maria community for the cards, gift cards, meal train, prayers and rosaries said for him. “All of this has been overwhelming to me. I have concluded it’s not about me, it’s about how an event with evilness awakens so much tenderness and sincerity, faith, unity, sensibility and so much love. This shows the infinitive power of God and His love which is so big--and good people. There is love in the world.”

The shooting suspect, 26-year-old Hilberto Callejas, of Naples, was apprehended by authorities outside of Ave Maria shortly after the incident. He is being held and is facing numerous felony charges stemming from that violent morning. The Collier County Sheriff’s Office called Manuel’s response to the situation valiant. “We are grateful that Manuel is recovering from his injuries after his valiant actions in this violent attack,” said Karie Partington, Media Relations Bureau Manager.

Collier County Sheriff Kevin Rambosk also recognized Manuel in a ceremony on Oct. 7 with a Sheriff’s Appreciation Award for his courage. “He disregarded his own safety and placed himself in imminent danger, with the possibility of death, to protect the lives of a woman and her children. Manuel’s actions were truly heroic,” the award reads in-part.

Florida congressman Mario Diaz-Balart recognized Manuel as a “true American patriot who selflessly acted as a Good Samaritan, courageously taking a bullet to save the lives of a family in distress.” Manuel also received a letter from former President Donald Trump. “You are a fighter like I have never seen before,” the letter reads. “Against communism and now against domestic violence—confronting a violent thug terrorizing his family.”

Everywhere Manuel goes in town people tell him they prayed for him. He asked forgiveness for not yet replying to everyone who wrote to him, the children who sent cards. “I have received the benefits of the service of so many people…the only thing I can do is to serve them and give back,” he said. “We have a beautiful town we need to take care of it and protect it.”

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, you are encouraged to call the Collier County Sheriff’s Department. They have specialized detectives and victim advocates who provide resources to help victims heal. The department also works closely with The Shelter for Women & Children, https://naplesshelter.org where Sheriff Kevin Rambosk serves on the shelter’s board of directors. National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-SAFE (7233)

From stocking stuffers to gift certificates, we make Christmas shopping easy… apparel, leotards, shorts, skirts, shoes and tights!

You don’t have to be a AMU student to take advantage of the great gift ideas at the campus store.

Available at Ave Maria Dance Academy 5068 Annunciation, Ave Maria 239-261-2606 avemariadanceacademy.com You can’t go wrong with Pokémon! Games, toys, cards & collectables. Available at Way out Toys & Games 5064 Annunciation Circle Ave Maria 239-671-9885 wayouttoys.com

Available at Ave Maria University Campus Store 5060 Annunciation, Ave Maria 239-304-7032

campusstore.avemaria.edu

Begin a family tradition with a nativity set by Fontanini. Add figurines and pieces each year to create your perfect Christmas scene.

Available at Ave Maria Religious Store 5080 Annunciation, Ave Maria (239) 867-4336 avemariareligiousgifts.com

You have so much to be thankful for, and Blessing Bracelets make the perfect gift for your special someone.

Available at The Secret Ingredient 5064 Annunciation, Ave Maria 239-213-0990 shopthesecretingredient.com

VINRELLA, Love It, Gift It.

The next generation of loveable stuffed animals is here…and they have soothing powers. Heatable, weighted and lavender infused, these are you Go-To gift for any occasion.

Available at Stella Rose Way 5064 Annunciation Circle, Ave Maria 239-207-6560 stellaroseway.com

We Wish You a Merry 'PEST FREE' Christmas

WRITTEN BY CHAD KISH

As the holiday season approaches there are a few things to be mindful of when it comes to unwanted pests. Here in southwest Florida, we experience a cooler dry winter. As the area cools and the environment dries, certain pests will try to get into the home to search for moisture.

Ants, like ghost ants, will migrate to kitchens and specifically the sinks to collect droplets in the drain. They also enjoy sweet carbohydrates alluding to their nickname “Sugar ants.” So be sure to keep any sweets or sugary snacks in the fridge or in a Ziplock bag. Both options are great for sealing out pests.

Cockroaches tend to move towards the laundry room and dishwasher as they prefer warm humid environments. Make sure that your weather strips on the exterior doors are not torn or heavily worn. If you can see light coming through the weather strips, pests can gain access, which means it is time for new weather strips!

The third biggest winter pest are rats. Yes rats. They will try to gain access to the attic to get out of the elements. Rodents are excellent climbers and can easily climb a nearby tree or the patio/pool cages and gain access to the roof. Then they just need an opening approximately the size of a quarter to get into your attic. Once they have gained access they use your insulation as nesting material, and for warmth. The most common signs of activity in the attic are scratching sounds in the ceiling, and/or tapping sounds from their nails as they traverse the wooden beams in your attic.

And one last thing…if you decide to go with a real Christmas tree, be sure to inspect the top and bottom of it before bringing it inside. One of the more common ways that pests enter homes during the holidays is via those beautiful trees and wreaths. Some of the more common pests are spiders, roaches and aphids. We recommend that you let the tree sit for a day or two before bringing it inside your home. This gives them time to leave the tree or die from lack of food.

If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out to me at: kishpest.com

Etiquette & Manners

WRITTEN BY CHAD BEATTY

Raising productive little humans is certainly a challenging vocation at times, but it is also one of the most important any of us can undertake. While every child has a personality as unique as a snowflake, and sometimes a temper to match, there are some universal principles that will set them up to flourish as productive adult members of society.

Quite often the terms ‘Manners’ and ‘Etiquette’ are used interchangeably, but they do have their different nuances. While they are related concepts, Etiquette is a set of societal rules, while Manners are personal behaviors that reflect a person’s attitude. For example, etiquette may change from one society to the next, but manners should remain unchanged.

Back to the Basics

Ok, Let’s get started with a basic, Table Manners. Whether it’s a first date or a high-powered business lunch, a few crucial mistakes can make all the difference. It may sound shallow, but I sat across from a potential business partner only to reconsider after he held his fork like a 9th century Viking while speaking with a mouth full of food.

Implement these easy top 10 Table Manners and get them started on their road to success:

1. Wash your hands before coming to the table

2. Say please and thank you

3. Don't talk with your mouth full

4. No devices at the dinner table

5. Hold your silverware properly

6. Don’t reach across the table

7. Napkin stays on your lap unless being used

8. Wait for everyone to begin eating

9. Take your time, it’s not a race

10. Know how to set a table properly

MOTHERING BOYS

The Blessing PUNCH

WRITTEN BY KATHERINE MORNA TOWNE

“...'joy in suffering' and 'the road to sanctification' — a kind of life where even the hard parts are good."

My life’s first dream was to be a mom. My second was to be a writer. While waiting for the first I pursued the second: I majored in English and worked as an advertising copywriter right out of college, retiring after a couple of years in order to finish up my graduate degree and start my family with my new husband. What I didn’t expect was for the first to inspire the second: I find nothing so inspiring, meaningful, and hilarious to write about than my kids and my life as their mom! They give my writing — and all of my professional pursuits — purpose and perspective.

I have seven children; my youngest will turn six this fall, and two weeks later my oldest will turn twenty. This coming school year I will have a college junior, a college freshman, a high school junior, a high school freshman, a seventh grader, a fifth grader, and a first grader. It’s amazing to me to consider what different stages of life we have represented in our house. It’s also amazing to me, still, after all this time, that all my children are BOYS.

I started writing a regular column for my local paper one month before my third living baby was born. That baby just turned sixteen! As far as I can remember, I haven’t missed a month, despite having welcomed four more babies after that one. It’s a good thing, too, because I’ve never been successful at keeping baby books for any of my kids — my column *is* my baby book. I might not have recorded every new tooth or lost tooth, every first step across the living room or first step into the next stage of life, but I have hundreds of articles to look back on and be reminded of how life was for most of my kids’ growing up. And here I am, still writing! “Mothering Boys” is the name of my column and the heart of my life.

I really love to share mothering stories in my writing as a way of encouraging other parents, especially those who feel like they’re “in the trenches,” and to assure them that family life is messy. A good example is something that happened recently at church.

My older boys are altar servers, and usually all serve at the Mass we attend on Sundays, leaving only my youngest in the pew with me and my husband (which is pretty weird after all those years of wrangling lots of little boys in the pew). At the end of Mass, the priest invites the children to receive a special blessing — oh how my littlest guy loves going up to get his blessing! Much to the delight of the congregation, he runs enthusiastically back to our pew every time.

But recently, when he went up for his blessing and met up with his next oldest brother, who had come down from his seat on the altar for his own blessing, I saw the older boy whisper something to my youngest, and my youngest hauled off and punched him. Right there in front of the altar, and Father, and Jesus Himself. My husband and I were mortified, even as everyone around us chuckled. Even worse, the next week he did the same thing! So that’s how it’s going. Good and bad, up and down, progress and regression. (We did have a serious talk with both of them after the second time, so hopefully that’s the end of the Blessing Punch.)

Isn’t that how all of parenthood is, though? Good and bad, up and down, progress and regression. Over the years I’ve written about the privilege of caring for many small children, as well as the challenges of caring for many small, demanding children after being up all night with the baby. About my struggles and successes with breastfeeding, and my gratitude for the pump and formula. How I manage the wild days of summer and the busy days of the school year. The devastation of losing a baby to miscarriage, and the

absolute joy of expecting again, even with the possibility of miscarriage ever present and terrifying. The simultaneous thrill and heartbreak of watching my boys grow up and start doing big boy things like jobs and college. The challenges and blessings of being a stay-at-home mom for seventeen years, and perhaps not enough about the terror and excitement of going back to work. It all makes me think of “joy in suffering” and “the road to sanctification” — a kind of life where even the hard parts are good.

One final story to leave you with: As my kids are growing up, I unfortunately have more time to spend worrying and wondering if I did everything right (especially now when nothing is as straightforward as nursing and napping). I’m sorry to say that I sometimes feel a little starved for affirmation and appreciation (as I think so many moms do!).

Recently my older boys have unknowingly been putting a smile on my face. Normally when we are watching a show or movie, where the character is considering going into a scary location — a dark room or a place with a creepy noise – my gut-reaction is to say, “Nope! I would never!” Well, my clever big boys have been trying to bait me by saying, “But what if one of us was in there?” Even though they’re trying their hardest to do a “gotcha!” it makes me so happy that they know I’d come after them, no matter where they were. It’s one of those things I’ll keep in my heart and ponder, especially when I need a boost.

I look forward to sharing more of our family shenanigans in this space! Happy holidays and God bless.

SMALLWOOD store & museum

WRITTEN & PHOTOGRAPHED BY BECKY BRUEHL BESTUL

Looking out over the water from the Smallwood Store and Museum in Chokoloskee, a visitor can imagine it’s 1910 and the infamous E.J. Watson is guiding his boat through the mangrove islands to come ashore. Waiting for him is a posse of 20-plus pioneer family men with rifles aimed to gun down the suspected serial murderer.

The killing of Mr. Watson is a part of the history of this island that’s intertwined with the former trading post founded by frontiersman Ted Smallwood. Many of the family names on the island are the same as they were in the early 1900s. Local residents often proudly include the number of generations their family has lived on Chokoloskee or nearby. Their ancestors made a living off the land as farmers, fishermen, hunters, trappers. Back then the Everglades was a good place to hide if you were running from something and if you could stand the heat, mosquitos and hurricanes. Back before the Ten Thousand Islands area was a national park, when ancient Indian mound islands were inhabited by pioneers eking out a living and raising families.

Lynn McMillin is the granddaughter of Ted Smallwood. He passed before she was born but she grew up visiting his store, hearing the stories about him from her aunt, Thelma Smallwood. Thelma took over the store and post office from her father, and she was like a grandmother to McMillin.

“I would come down here and help her, sweep the store for a quarter,” Lynn said. “I would spend the night, she taught me how to sew and crochet.” After Thelma passed, the old general store doors were closed with everything in it for about 10 years. Then McMillin bought out the surviving shareholders, and reopened the store in 1990 as a nonprofit museum and gift store. They also offer boat tours from the store. “We have the best location to leave from with local, native guides who know this place like the back of their hand,” she said.

When Ted Smallwood opened the trading post in 1906, the only way to get to it was by water. The area Seminole Indians plied their dugout canoes through the sawgrass and Chokoloskee Bay to trade their hides and furs for provisions. McMillin said her grandfather learned their language and he also spoke Spanish. He only had a third grade education but was said to have a photographic memory.

Born in Georgia, Smallwood ran away from a harsh stepmother as a boy, according to McMillin. He held a variety of jobs, including working on longboats in Florida, Cuba and the Bahamas before settling down and buying Chokoloskee Island, growing tomatoes and opening the trading post, originally out of his home.

When McMillin began sifting through the store records and artifacts to prepare to open the museum, she found that her grandfather had helped the locals through tough times like the Depression. There was a total of $20,000 of credit he had given, still in his books. “But he did well,” she said, buying and selling land, farming, running the store and post office for the island.

The trading post was also part of the Seminole history, McMillin said. “This is where they came to trade. I had some who told me my grandfather was the first white man some of them had ever seen and he treated them fairly.” McMillin said when she started holding fundraisers to open the museum, the chair of the Seminole Tribe at the time came to see “who was messing with his store.”

On a cloudy, rainy summer afternoon, Rachel McMillin, Lynn McMillin’s granddaughter, is greeting visitors to the museum. She shows them the notches on the wood counter where Ted Smallwood, her great, great grandfather would measure the hides he would buy from the local pioneers or Seminoles.

She points down the counter that runs the length of the store. The counter wall is tilted inward to accommodate women’s hoop skirts, she tells them.

Rachel McMillin tells me she’s been coming to the store since she was a child and now her five-year-old daughter accompanies her. It’s definitely a family affair. “We all step in and help out.” Many of the visitors are interested in the killing of Mr. Watson. “A lot of people have read the book so they want to come here and see the place.”

The book is the national best seller, Killing Mister Watson, by Peter Matthiessen. The author maintains it is fiction, reimagined from what few records exist and is a mix of “rumor, gossip, tale and legend… evolved… into myth.” It’s one of three related books and a later condensed version called Shadow Country : A New Rendering of the Watson Legend by the author.

Lynn McMillin said her grandfather traded with Watson and “didn’t have a problem with him.”

Although it is possible that Watson--already accused of a murder before he arrived in the Ten Thousand Islands—killed workers he didn’t want to pay and others for a number of possible reasons . Ted Smallwood was not among the posse who gunned down Watson near the store on Oct. 24, 1910. McMillin said the men buried Watson’s bullet-ridden body at Rabbit Key. His family later moved his body to Fort Myers.

The Smallwood Store and Museum offers Mathiessen’s books for sale and there are news stories, pictures and other artifacts about the legend on display. Entering the store is like stepping back into the early 20th century. Smallwood built his store with Dane County Pine, according to McMillin, and that’s why it’s survived so many hurricanes. Even built on stilts, the water has come up to the floor during storms. She talks about plans for the next season. They’re going to have a food truck and eventually rent kayaks from their beach, in addition to the boat tours. McMillin hopes her kids and grandkids keep the museum going when she’s ready to retire.

A couple of visitors from England are on the boat tour that cloudy day I stopped by. Despite the weather, we see dolphins, racoons, a Roseate Spoonbill and many other birds. The boat guide is a young man named Tristan Kibodeaux—quick to add he’s 9th generation in the islands. I ask if he could be related to Darrel Daniels who took me on a tour from Smallwood Store a few years ago. We had stopped on one of the islands where some of Daniels family is buried in a small cemetery…he grew up on an island and took the school boat to Chokoloskee when he was a kid. Do you know him? “That’s my great-grandfather,” Tristin says. “He’s taught me everything I know!”

Smallwood Store and Museum

Trading post established in 1906 by Ted Smallwood, placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. Opened as a nonprofit museum in 1990. Serves as a virtual time capsule of Florida pioneer history.

Entrance fee is $5.

Address: 360 Mamie St., Chokoloskee, FL

Directions from Ave Maria: East on Oil

Well to State Highway 29. Take 29 south through Everglades City to Chokoloskee, which is about three miles south of Everglades City. Follow signs to Smallwood Museum. It's about a 55 minute drive from Ave Maria.

Phone: 239-695-2989

Email: lynn@smallwoodstore.com

Open seven days a week: December-April 10 a.m. -5 p.m.

May-November 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Website: Smallwoodstore.com

Boat Tour Information website: smallwoodstoreboattour.com

—Diane von Furstenberg

Judi's

WRITTEN BY MARY HARP-JIRSCHELE

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE SCHWARTZ FAMILY & AVE MARIA UNIVERSITY

Growing up in the Judi and George Schwartz home in Ann Arbor, Michigan, meant that you would be blessed with nourishment for the mind, body and soul. “My parents knew it was critical for children to be stimulated mentally, physically and spiritually,” said Katie Hord, the youngest of the five Schwartz children. “Those values are now being passed on to our children and their children.” And so, too, to the students at Ave Maria University.

Thanks to the generosity of the Schwartz family, the physical well-being of students is being fed by an impressive new outdoor basketball facility. Appropriately named “Judi’s Gym,” the massive covered concourse has three full-sized courts. It is located on the south side of the campus, literally the first university structure you see as you approach the downtown. Within hours of the ribbon-cutting and dedication, it was occupied by students, just as Judi would have hoped.

Unfortunately, Judi wasn’t alive for the groundbreaking or dedication, but her entire family was there – and they know she was present in spirit. “She would have loved the gym, but I don’t think she would have been too keen on it being called ‘Judi’s Gym.’” Katie chuckled. “Yes, she would have loved the fact that it provides a great service to the university and specifically to the students, but she was completely selfless. Something dedicated to her name – thus putting herself in the spotlight – was not who she was. She would always lend a helping hand no matter the situation or cost. But she never wanted anything in return and needed no recognition for her efforts. It was my dad who chose the gym to bear my mom’s name in order to honor her and her generous spirit.”

Judi Arnold grew up in Detroit, Michigan, playing basketball, volleyball, softball, flag football and even swimming. After marrying George and starting a family, she became a well-respected coach in local schools and rec leagues. She especially enjoyed sharing her love of sports with her children. “Both my parents loved athletics and we pretty much grew up in a gym, either playing sports or watching them,” Katie said. “Mom must have known what she was doing as a coach because she strongly encouraged my at-the-time sports-resistant sister Annie to play basketball in 7th grade, and she went on to get a basketball scholarship to Notre Dame.” Another brother, Tim, found success on the courts at Division 1A school Fairfield University in Connecticut.

As they raised their children, Judi and George were immersed in the Catholic Church and school system in the Ann Arbor area. They were active in Booster Clubs and alumni endeavors, often co-chairing fundraising auctions to ensure the viability of their children’s schools. It was during one of these charity events that Judi introduced George to Tom Monaghan, founder of Domino’s Pizza and eventually Ave Maria, and they became lifelong friends. They raised their children together and partnered on various financial endeavors, including the inception of the Ave Maria Mutual Funds in 2001.

Together, George and Tom labored to grow the Ave Maria Mutual Funds into the largest Catholic mutual fund family in the U.S. Today, George is the Executive Chairman and Founder, and Tom sits on the Catholic Advisory Board. The two share the philosophy of “giving more than you take” as they walk this earth, and many charitable initiatives have benefited from their relationship, including Ave Maria University.

Tom first approached George with the idea of funding an outdoor gym several years ago. Originally it was Tom’s idea to have the gym be built at the Ave Maria Law School in Naples. George was concerned that the law school would be moved to the community of Ave Maria eventually and the gym would be left behind, so the idea was temporarily shelved. When it surfaced again, and the site was on the Ave Maria main campus, George knew the time was right to honor Judi. George often said, “God broke the mold when He made Judi.” Though the Schwartzes had found wealth over the years, Judi remained “a no-nonsense, no frills, plain Jane who wasn’t afraid to speak her mind. Her favorite restaurant was Wendy’s and she made the best lasagna for birthdays and holidays,” Katie said.

Sadly, the woman who was so dedicated to balance between the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of life would die of Alzheimer's during the height of the covid pandemic, when she was unable to have visitors. “I don’t think it’s a coincidence she passed during covid. Anyone who knew her knows she didn’t care for big crowds. She knew we would all have to sit and wait and watch her die, so she spared us that pain. Even in death she was thinking about others and not herself,” Katie said.

Next time you pass by Judi’s Gym, give a nod to the woman behind the structure who wanted to ensure that students are growing mentally, spiritually and physically during their time in Ave Maria. Judi knew the church has their spiritual welfare covered, the school has hold of their intellectual progress, and she is helping influence their physical well-being.

an Ecotourism Success

WRITTEN BY RACHEL SHEFFEY | PHOTOS BY FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE (UNLESS NOTED)

OOnly seven miles from Ave Maria is an ecotourism hot spot drawing tourists from throughout the East Coast. Lake Trafford is known today as a natural haven, sportfishing hot spot, and headwaters to the Everglades, but its path has been tumultuous. Starting life as a shallow, sandy-bottomed lake of 1,500 acres with clear water and diverse expansive aquatic vegetation, it went through a period of serious ecological distress after the introduction of an invasive plant resulted in major environmental changes.

Our best guess is that hydrilla was introduced into Florida’s ecosystem in the 1950s when undesirable specimens of Hydrilla verticillata were dumped into canals near Tampa Bay and later Miami. It accidentally entered Lake Trafford in 1969.

In their native habitats, hydrilla beds provide necessary vegetative cover for ambush predators and are kept in check by herbivorous fish. However, without the controlling pressures of its native range, hydrilla’s immense heartiness and fast growth choke the life out of competing plants. The resulting sediment destabilization can reduce water clarity and impact the native fauna. Contributing to the issue at Lake Trafford, agricultural run-off resulted in extremely high levels of nutrients that fueled the hydrilla’s explosive growth. Within three years of its introduction, hydrilla had made the lake nearly unusable by boats.

Scenic Lake Trafford in Immokalee | 1965

Lake Trafford | 2003 by Karen Butler

Lake Trafford | 2014

American Alligator populations made a remarkable recovery from near extinction after their inclusion in the Endangered Species Act of 1973 and its precursor in 1967. The GFC conducted many surveys and studies, including controlled “harvests,” as alligator populations improved.

The first alligator harvest at Lake Trafford took place on six nights in autumn 1985 and allowed hunters in good standing living within 15 miles of the lake to apply for a position within the experiment. Ten participants were selected to hunt using a rod and reel, gig, bow and arrow, or harpoon, with firearms being strictly prohibited. Participants were required to turn over to researchers the right rear legbones of each alligator and the reproductive tracts of all females over six feet.

When the harvest proved successful and of minimal ecological interruption, the GFC kept it going. By 1988, alligator populations were estimated to be in excess of one million and the permit program expanded to include other lakes, with some 5,800 people applying for the first public wild alligator hunt in Florida since 1962. Nine hunters limited to ten alligators apiece were chosen for Lake Trafford. And Lake Trafford was different. Although other lakes had less stringent rules around permitted hunting, Lake Trafford was designated as one of nine GFC alligator research areas for continued monitoring.

In 1974 the decision was made at a Collier County Commissioners meeting to treat Lake Trafford’s hydrilla with chemicals. Discussion between the commissioners, representatives of the Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission (GFC), and representatives of the State Department of Natural Resources over possible solutions was extensive. The other proposed solution was to introduce white amur, an exotic carp that feeds on hydrilla, to the lake. They had been used with some success to cut back hydrilla populations in several smaller ponds, though never any ecosystems as large as Lake Trafford. Ultimately concerns over the possible long-term impact of introducing the fish preempted their introduction to the lake.

Despite this intervention, Lake Trafford continued to suffer as an ecosystem. The problem of nutrient loading due to agricultural run-off was never adequately addressed and the chemical eradication of hydrilla only resulted in the plant’s decaying remains sloughing more nutrients into the system.

April 1996 saw the catastrophic die-off of 50,000 fish: 60 percent of Lake Trafford’s population and the largest fish kill since the early 1980s. It reignited interest in cleaning up the lake for good. That month saw the establishment of the Lake Trafford Restoration Taskforce by the Collier County Commissioners.

In 1997, Annie and Ski Olesky traveled to Miami to advocate for Lake Trafford’s restoration to a group including then Florida Governor Lawton Chiles. Annie’s impassioned speech likely contributed to Lake Trafford being raised nine slots to number 15 out of the 36 projects competing for a portion of 75 million federal dollars earmarked for Everglades clean-up. This positioning marked a serious win for the restoration taskforce.

Lake Trafford | 2014

Lake Trafford Fish Stocking | 1962

The next year, the estimated cost of dredging Lake Trafford of a projected 8 million cubic yards of muck increased to $16 million. The US Corps of Engineers (COE) promised to match up to $8.2 million raised before September of 1999. The Lake Trafford Restoration Taskforce secured pledges totaling $2 million from Collier County’s Tourist Development Council, $900,000 from the GFC, and $21,000 of direct local support. In addition, the Big Cypress Basin Board authorized a shortfall up to the matching $8 million to secure the monies earmarked by the COE.

Unfortunately, Lake Trafford’s restoration was plagued with setbacks. In 2001, bids for the project came back between 100–150 percent higher than expected, and the resulting delay cost the project its expected federal funding. In 2004, the project was re-bid on a much tighter scope and the COE re-committed to match the acquired state and public funds. Later that year just as the project seemed like it was set to start, the discovery and subsequently necessary relocation of gopher tortoises at the muck disposal site caused yet another delay, brief though it was. Phase 2 of the dredging in 2008 saw another delay when artifacts of potential cultural significance were discovered in the dredged material and several canoe fragments, later identified as Calusa, were exposed by low water levels. A 50–100 foot nodredge zone around each fragment and continued monitoring of the removed muck was recommended.

The Lake Trafford dredging project was finally completed in 2010 after 22 million dollars spent and more than 6 million cubic yards of muck removed.

Removing the remains of the once-choking hydrilla wasn’t the end of Lake Trafford’s restoration journey. Multiple organizations continue to address concerns, including re-establishing native plants and monitoring the system for nutrient runoff from agriculture. For example, the South Florida Water Management District released its management plan for Lake Trafford in 2018, there were two eelgrass planting projects in 2020, and freshwater mussels were introduced as a nutrient sink in 2021.

Today, Lake Trafford is considered one of the best bass fishing spots in Southwest Florida and a major ecotourism destination. You can learn more about its journey (including how it got its name!) at Lake Trafford – Ecology and Excursions on display October 22, 2024 – February 1, 2025, at the Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch.

(above) Lake Trafford | 2003 by Karen Butler

Fishing Lake Trafford

New Plantings

TEACHING THE Lessons OF THE HOLOCAUST

Anne Frank picture in the museum

Black and white photo of Jews arriving at camp

"Evil thrives in darkness.

In 10,000 square feet of space, we tell the Holocaust story historically."

WRITTEN BY BECKY BRUEHL BESTUL | PHOTOS PROVIDED

Retired pulmonologist, Dr. Stuart Mest, of Naples promised his mother before she passed away that he would tell her story and his father’s story of surviving the Holocaust in an effort to stop it from ever happening again.

And that’s what he does as a docent and chairman of the board at the Holocaust Museum and Cohen Education Center in Naples. The first generation of survivors are aged and dying, Mest said. “It is up to the second generation, as a duty to their parents, to carry on their stories and teach the lessons to make sure it doesn’t happen again to any group of people.”

Mest’s parents were both born in Poland shortly before the Nazis stormed the country. They both survived the horrendous conditions of the Nazi-created ghettos as children. Mest’s father at age 14 became a slave laborer who continued to work despite being emaciated and suffering from typhus at a concentration camp at the end of the war. Mest’s mother, who was an even younger child during the war, escaped a ghetto and multiple close calls of capture, eventually hiding in the woods with a resistance group and being hunted by Nazis until a couple hid her toward the end of the war.

Both of Mest’s parents were eventually sponsored by relatives to come to the United States several years after the end of the war. His father was 24 and his mother was 17. Both started working immediately after their arrival, which was required as part of their entry to the country. They met at night school where they were learning English and getting their high school equivalency degrees. They married, became citizens and raised Mest and his brother in Philadelphia.

“Many survivors had a difficult time talking about what happened to them,” Mest said. But his parents used current events as teaching moments and shared what they went through with their sons. “They stressed how we should lead our lives and be ‘up-standers,’” he said. His parents encouraged their boys to be among those people who stand up to injustice.

Marcy Hendrix is an 8th grade History teacher at Southwest Florida Christian Academy in Fort Myers. She brings her class to the museum every year. “This is a lesson that goes beyond any textbook. They can see what happens when hate dictates the world,” she said. She wants her students to think about what they can do to be a light in a dark world.

The field trip is the culmination of a lot of classroom instruction about the Holocaust, Hendrix said. And with the help of the museum, they wrap up the experience with a discussion with a family member of Holocaust survivors. On this day, it was Dr. Mest.

The museum got its start in 1988 when Golden Gate Middle School 7th graders created a classroom exhibit about the Holocaust they called “Out of the Ashes.” They invited the public to view it and it was well received. The Jewish Federation helped the fledgling museum rent a small store front and become a not-forprofit, according to the current President and CEO of the museum, Susan Suarez.

Why Naples? Because just like everyone else, a lot of survivors, liberators, World War II veterans and family moved to southwest Florida to enjoy the weather, Suarez said. “And we have a generous community and we were able to build this wonderful museum.”

The museum moved to its current location in 2019 and recently expanded its exhibit space. There’s always something new to see. The museum features loaned visiting exhibits and rotated materials from their archives.

become the world’s only traveling boxcar exhibit, an invaluable mobile educational tool. The boxcar exhibit is on loan to the museum from Jack and F.E. Nortman and the Boxcar Foundation. When not traveling it is parked outside the museum.

The Holocaust is still important to learn about and is relevant even to young people today, Suarez said. Students understand prejudice, bullying. The museum teaches about propaganda and warns students not to believe everything they hear or see on the Internet. “We promote mutual respect and understanding,” she said. Holocaust education is mandated by the state of Florida and all of the museum’s education aligns with the state standards. They also offer teacher workshops to help instructors teach the subject.

While COVID caused visitor numbers to drop at the museum, Suarez said they are back up to pre-COVID numbers with more than 5,000 general public visitors and 4,000 student visitors a year. They actually reach more than 15,000 students a year through PopUp and traveling museum presentations according to Suarez.

"we promote Mutual respect and understanding."

The museum attempts to tell the stories of the individuals, Suarez said. When visitors and students hear the testimony and experiences of an individual it becomes more real and they remember it. “They understand it in a human way, not just the big numbers,” she said.

Within the exhibits there are special gold panels. These panels tell the stories of the resistance, the people who hid children, the liberators. “There were the horrors of the Holocaust,” Suarez said. “But there was also the best of humanity.”

Suarez is grateful to all the local residents who have donated or loaned artifacts, photos, stories. Such as the gentleman who showed up at the museum one day with a file of pictures of his parent’s house in France where they had hid Jewish children from the Nazis. Or the local woman who shared the photos of herself as a child and the nuns who hid her and taught her Catholic prayers to protect her.

The museum even features a 10-ton Holocaust-era railway boxcar that was located after a four-year international search by a museum board member. It has

“Our survivors are getting old but the next generation will go and give presentations,” she said.

Private group tours of the museum are available during non-public hours and a variety of options are available to accommodate a group’s schedule and interest. Options include docent led or audio tours, presentations with a survivor or descendant and can even include a light breakfast or lunch. To schedule a private group tour, at least two weeks’ notice is requested. Contact David Nelson at David@HMCEC.org

Suarez said visitors rate the museum experience very highly, many saying its quality is on par with much larger Holocaust museums. The hope remains the same as those middle school students had decades ago-that learning and sharing about the Holocaust will help prevent future genocides.

If you study that moment in history, Mest said, although there were the Nazis and collaborators, most people and countries were passive and silent. “The silence around the world was deafening. They were bystanders and silent,” he said. If more people had been “upstanders” and resisted what was happening, it may not have been as bad. And that’s the message they want the students and visitors to hear, he said.

“Antisemitism is the canary in the mine shaft so it’s important to talk about it because there’s always another ‘other,’” Mest said. “They move on to another target, another group.”

“Evil thrives in darkness. In 10,000 square feet of space, we tell the Holocaust story historically. We also show the people who risked their lives to try to do the right thing.”

at a Glance HOLOCAUST

MUSEUM & COHEN EDUCATION CENTER

975 Imperial Golf Course Blvd., Naples (about a 45-minute drive from Ave Maria)

Visit hmcec.org for ticket purchase and calendar of events, closed Mondays and major U.S. holidays

Docent-led and self-guided audio tours available for public (pre-purchase of tickets suggested)

School and private tours available by appointment during non-public hours

Rental meeting space available for groups

Teacher training offered, as well as lecture series, PopUp Museums, and other events and community programs.

Museum mission: Teach the lessons of the Holocaust to inspire action against bigotry, hatred and violence.

What you’ll experience: the museum houses more than 1,000 World War II and Holocaust artifacts and original photographs from the rise of Nazism to Allied Liberation and the Nurenberg Trials, most donated or on loan from Naples area survivors, liberators or family members. Hear many of their stories in videotaped interviews and interactive exhibits.

Suitcases, part of the display in the concentration camps section

Cannisters of death

Box car

Photo by Randall Perry Photography

AS architecturally SPEAKING

Follow us as we explore some of the area's unique spaces

BLOWNAway

A major renovation transforms a seasonal home into a grounded, yet glamorous, custom retreat.

In a premier Naples, Florida golf course community, rich finishes, textured surfaces, and colors that echo the unstoppable water views drench a breathtaking 5,500 sq. ft., 6-bedroom, 5.5-bath home in opulence. Completed pre-pandemic within an aggressive eight-month timeline, this incredible transformation saw ornate architectural features, crown molding, and heavy columns removed, as walls were torn down, archways rebuilt, and a new, streamlined style take shape.

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER | PHOTOS BY RANDALL PERRY PHOTOGRAPHY

“THERE WERE A LOT OF CHANGES ALONG THE WAY

but at the end of the day, everyone was totally pleased. The homeowners were blown away when they came in – it exceeded their expectations,” said Lynn Lombardi, owner of LDL Interiors, Inc.

Lynn loves to transform spaces, and with more than 30 years of design experience, tackles residential renovations with the same gusto as commercial and new construction projects. By enclosing the loft in this 10-year-old home, they created three bedrooms. They also opened up the kitchen, crafted a boast-worthy master bedroom and a luxurious bath.

easy OUTDOOR LIVING

To take advantage of the generous outdoor spaces (and the ideal Florida weather from October to May) a stunning enclosed swimming pool with sunning ledge is just steps away from the fullyequipped outdoor kitchen.

Made of materials that withstand the heat and humidity, the leathered quartzite countertops and poly-resin NatureKast cabinetry provide ample storage while the new grill and two types of refrigeration make entertaining easy in any climate.

The dark-stained tongue-and-groove ceiling contrasts the home’s light-colored textured walls, creating a seamless transition into the three covered seating areas, allowing guests to enjoy the undisturbed vistas from every angle.

BEFORE

distinctly DIFFERENT DINING

Inside, the grand entrance opens into the living and dining areas.

Showstopping circular copper shapes adorn the navy-blue grass cloth entryway as visitors step down into the main living area. Outfitted with a comfortable couch and lush chenille barrel chairs under a distinguished rectangular drop ceiling, they’ve gone the extra mile here and added a custom marble mosaic fireplace flanked by dark display shelving and a television set on a motorized mount so that it can be repositioned - offering uninterrupted viewing wherever you are in the space.

The office is conveniently located in one corner, while opposite, the kitchen, breakfast nook, and dining room create connected, yet distinctly different seating options.

In the kitchen, the leather barstools are right at home next to the mitered-edge island. Wood cabinetry with metallic hardware grounds the space, while above the bar, a glass cabinet lets the light pass through, making storage feel less intrusive.

The bar features a waterfall edge countertop displaying the glorious blue veining in its full glory while also attracting the eye to the kitchen’s blue backsplash tile.

In the dining room, a metallic gold accent wall showcases local art, while a raised ceiling and a pair of transom windows let the light in.

Make a dramatic impact in a small space with iridescent blue herringbone pattern glass tiles, dark floating shelves, and a back-lit oval

MATRIMONIAL bliss

Replacing harsh yellows and golds with a softer, subtler color palette, the feminine and masculine are blissfully married in the master bedroom and bath.

The custom leather upholstered bedframe invites sophistication into the space, while the specially-designed leaded stain glass windows, and crushed shell ceiling add interest and depth. Antique mirrored fronts adorn the dual matching chests, inviting old-world glamour into the contemporary space.

In the master bath, a trio of rectangular cut-outs replace the arches that once existed here. Two floating vanities with lighted mirrors lines the walls, leading to the large double shower featuring his and hers benches atop a custom glass mosaic and limestone quartzite base, exemplifying luxury – redefined.

To have your home featured in a future edition, contact Chad Beatty

mirror that screams sophistication.

The Homestead Property Tax Exemption What It

Is, and Why It Matters

WRITTEN BY SHARON LEVESQUE, REALTOR

If you recently moved to Florida, or are a first-time home buyer in Florida, you may have already been asked if your house is “homesteaded.” If so, you might be wondering exactly what that means and why it matters. Let’s dive into it.

In simple terms, when a house in Florida has been “homesteaded” it means that the taxable value of the home could be reduced by as much as $50,000. There are other benefits as well, which will be discussed shortly, but first let’s review how you can pay less in taxes by homesteading?

According to Naples real estate attorney, Sam Saad of the Law Office of Sam J Sadd III, “Homestead applies to property where you reside permanently. Some benefits require registration, like tax savings. Others apply just by virtue of you being on the property, like asset protection.” He goes on to say there are three benefits from homesteading your house.

The first benefit, as previously mentioned, is saving money on your taxes. The Florida Department of Revenue notes that the first $25,000 of the home’s value is exempt from all taxes when you homestead. Another $25,000 in tax saving could be realized based on the remaining value of the house. For more information on this contact the county property appraiser’s office.

The second benefit is “Decent and Devise protection so the home goes to your children.”

And finally, Asset Protection is the third benefit of homesteading. “Under Asset protection up to .5 acres in the city and 160 acres in the country cannot be taken by creditors so long as you pay your mortgage, pay tour contractors and pay your association dues and taxes.”

How To Homestead Your Home

The first step to homesteading is to prove residency. Several documents will be needed, and your property appraiser may ask for any of the following:

• Proof of previous residency outside Florida and date ended

• Florida driver license or identification card number

• Evidence of giving up driver license from another state

• Florida vehicle license plate number

• Florida voter registration number (if US citizen)

• Declaration of domicile and residency date

• Name of current employer

• Address listed on your last IRS return

• Dependent children’s school location(s)

• Bank statement and checking account mailing address

• Proof of payment of utilities at homestead address

Other important things to know.

The deadline for applying for the Homestead exemption is March 1, and the property you are homesteading must be your permanent residence. You can also port the homestead from place to place if you move throughout Florida. The homestead exemption is lost if you permanently move off the property.

If you are filing for the first time, the Florida Department of Revenue suggests you prepare to answer these questions:

• Whose name or names were on the title on January 1?

• What is your social security number and your spouse’s social security number?

• Were you or your dependent(s) living in the dwelling on January 1?

• Do you claim residency in another county or state?

There you go…A great way to save money, assure security, and provide protection for one of the biggest investments you will ever make.

Good luck and enjoy your home!

Buzz Welcome INDUCTION

to the 21ST CENTURY OF COOKING

WRITTEN BY COLLEEN COLEMAN, CMC DESIGN STUDIO LLC | PHOTOS PROVIDED (UNLESS NOTED)

I was so excited when my induction cooktop was installed, that I had to write to you all about it! It’s fast, clean and simply feels gourmet!

There were several reasons why I chose to change my stove top cooking format from gas to induction. But before I get into that, let me educate you on what induction cooking is; how does it work? A copper coil under the cooktop creates electromagnetic energy. This magnetic energy interacts directly with the cookware to make it hot. Okay…blah, blah blah…The short of it is…heat is not created by fire or a hot coil, its created by a magnetic force that directly heats the pan, bypassing the surface. This allows the entire cooktop

unit to be only a few inches in height, salvaging the use of a top drawer just under your counter surface. Of course, there are perimeters, but we can leave that to individual kitchen design discussions.

With that being said, I’d like to share with you a few reasons why I chose induction for my personal kitchen renovation. To start, we knew this renovation was to get us through the next 20 years in our home. New regulations are beginning to take hold across the country banning the use of natural gas. No, no one will be taking away what you have, but like the incandescent light bulb of the past, replacements will be hard to find.

Photo courtesy of Monogram Induction Cooking

Glassceramic top plate which is not heated directly by the coils

Copper power coil Magnetic field: induced electric currents heat the pan

Pan with iron. If a magnet sticks, then you're good to go!

Secondly, as we began aging, the chore of cleaning the gas top and individual grates became more of a labor than a labor-of-love. We are messy cooks, but I’m a fanatic about a clean kitchen at the end of the day. As my range began to age, the years of scrubbing began to show. Personally, I wanted an easier clean up but I knew from experience that electric cooktops and I did not get along. So, when induction cooking began to gain more interest in the kitchen design world, I took notice. I had the opportunity to go to some impressive showrooms around the country and try top of the line appliances…induction cooking was one of them! It was a done deal! Here are some of the things I’ve learned personally about induction cooking:

• The control of heat is just as effective as a gas range. Induction cooktops can melt chocolate and sear a scallop.

• The response of the cooktop pan heat is instantaneous. Because the surface does not get hot first, does not retain any heat in and of itself, when the “magnetic field” is reduced or turned off, the heat change is immediate.

• Because heat is not lost to the cooking surface first, the items being cooked heat faster than with conventional cooking. For instance, I can bring 8 cups of cold tap water in an 8-quart pot to a full rapid boil in 3.57 minutes. That’s fast!

• Because the cooktop surface itself does not get hot - only the pan - splatter or spills do not bake onto your surface when cooking. In fact, I can clean the glass surface around my pan WHILE I’m cooking, without my hand getting burned. But mind you, the pan is hot!

• Many of the induction cooking surfaces also have the ability to sync burners. This means that if you have a large skillet that would normally be used across two cooking areas, this cooktop combines the two surfaces into one…without the gap in heat in the middle! No more half cooked pancakes for the center of your skillet! In addition, there’s also some cooking surfaces that have no particular set area to place your pan, you can cook anywhere, move your pan and the cooktop will follow. Try that with a gas cooktop!

• For aging in place, many of the induction cooktops will also sense if the pan has a spill over or is burning due to being left and forgotten and will automatically shut off. Likewise, because the surface does not produce a flame or red-hot heat coil, there’s no danger of an accidental fire from loose clothing or a towel left nearby.

• Most induction cooktops can link to your phone via Wi-Fi. So many people ask, “Why is this important?” Several reasons…I know when my cooktop is being used, even if I am in California! So, if my child was cooking on it and I was at an appointment, I would know! Some of the cooktops also have Bluetooth capabilities that actually talk to Bluetooth pans!

• Get ready for this…if you’re using a cast iron pan and you’re afraid it may scratch the glass surface, put a sheet of parchment paper between the glass and pan. No, it will not burn. Remember, the surface of the cooktop is not hot, in and of itself. It is only as hot as the heat coming back off the pan. With every pro there is a con. So, let’s chat about some of the negative reasons people have for not giving induction a try.

• The biggest statement I hear is “I will have to buy special pans” My response, “I bet you have pans in your arsenal right now that would work.” Here’s the test…if a magnet will stick to the bottom of your pan, it will cook on an induction cooktop. But mind you, like all cooking ware, the higher grade the cooking pan, the greater performance in cooking you will achieve. Yes, I purchased a few nice professional pans for my new kitchen because I wanted to, but I retained my large 24-quart stock pot for making sauce that I’ve used for years. And cast-iron works marvelously!! Don’t throw out the pans with the old kitchen, people!

• One con, which is only temporary, is a learning curve on cooking. Because the cooktop heats up so fast, you need to pay more attention to how fast your food is cooking and at what level of heat works best for the type of cooking you’re doing. It took us a matter of days to make the adjustments.

• Probably the only true con is the humming noise an induction cooktop will make. Much like a gas stove makes a hiss, if you’ve cooked with gas for a period of time, you don’t even hear it any longer. One caveat, and this is where I may change my thinking on lighting control…induction cooktops do not play nice with dimmer switches for your lighting. The more lights you have on a dimmer, the louder the buzz of your induction surface when set to higher temperatures, such as boiling water. However, this noise is no louder than the water boiling itself. If you have two lights over your island on a dimmer, you’ll probably not even notice a change. But…if the majority of your kitchen lights are operated by dimmers and they’re all turned on, then you may experience a louder chatter when your induction cooktop is turned on high. Personally, I love my induction cooktop so much, the noise is now dismissed when I cook. And because it only occurs while using the highest settings, it wouldn’t deter me from buying another induction surface.

All-in-all, induction cooking is beginning to take a greater hold of the cooking market. It’s not your mother’s kitchen anymore!

Until next time my friends,

Colleen Coleman of CMC Design Studio LLC

Certified Kitchen & Bath Designer

Certified Aging in Place • True Color Expert colleen@cmcdesignstudio.net

@cmcdesignstudiollc

“Creating Environments for Life” TM

Bright IDEAS

How Different Lighting Can Transform Your Home

WRITTEN BY LOGANN MCELFRESH

Lighting is more than just a practical necessity; it is a transformative tool that can completely change the ambiance and functionality of any space. From the warm glow of a vintage chandelier to the sleek lines of modern LED strips, the right lighting can highlight your home’s best features and create a welcoming atmosphere.

Different types of lighting

There are so many ways to be creative with lighting when you have so many options to choose from, such as chandeliers, pendants, sconces, flush mounts, task lights, art lights, table and floor lamps, ceiling cans, wall wash cans and so on. Then, each of these different types of light fixtures fall into a category of lighting, such as ambient lighting, task lighting, accent lighting, natural lighting and what I like to call sparkle lighting.

Let’s explore the different categories, and what each has to offer. First we have ambient lighting which is the general lighting that provides overall illumination to a room. It could be in the form of ceiling-mounted fixtures, recessed lights, or even chandeliers. ambient lighting sets the overall mood and brightness level.

TASK LIGHTING is focused lighting that helps you perform specific activities. It could be a table or floor lamp for studying, under cabinet lights in the kitchen for better visibility while cooking, or a floor lamp next to a cozy chair for reading.

ACCENT LIGHTING is used to highlight specific features or objects in a room. It could be track lighting to showcase artwork, wall sconces to create a warm glow, or even LED strip lights to emphasize architectural elements in the ceiling.

NATURAL LIGHTING is one of the most powerful of them all. You can utilize windows, skylights or glass doors to bring in natural light during the day. Natural light not only illuminates the space but also creates a sense of openness and connection with the outdoors.

Last but certainly not least, is SPARKLE LIGHTING. This type of lighting adds a touch of style and personality to a room. It can include fixtures such as pendants, chandeliers, or unique table lamps that serve as eye-catching focal points and enhance the overall aesthetic.

Each layer of lighting contributes to the overall look and feel of the space, so it's important to consider how they work together harmoniously. A combination of different lighting types can create layers and depth in your space, allowing you to adjust the ambiance and functionality as needed. You can transform your space with lighting in many ways; creating mood and ambiance, highlighting features, improving functionality, and changing perception of space and colors. Breaking that down further, mood and ambiance can be created with the type of intensity of lighting. Soft, warm lights can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, while bright, cool lights can make a space feel more energetic and vibrant. Or cold.

Highlighting features such as artwork, architectural details, or a statement piece of furniture can be created with accent lighting to draw attention to specifics. Functionality can be achieved with task lighting, like under-cabinet lights. These elements of lighting ensure that specific areas are well-lit for activities, enhancing both comfort and productivity. Proper lighting can change perception of space and colors, making rooms feel larger or smaller. For example, strategically placed lights can create the illusion of more space in a small room, while dim lighting can make a large room feel more intimate. In conclusion, lighting is not just a practical necessity; it is an essential element that shapes the mood, functionality, and aesthetic of any space. Whether you are enhancing natural light, choosing the perfect fixtures, or layering different types of lighting, the right choices can transform a room from ordinary to extraordinary. As you plan your interior design projects, remember that thoughtful lighting design can make all the difference. Embrace the power of light to create environments that are both beautiful and functional, illuminating your spaces with style and purpose.

Logann McElfresh is an interior designer working out of Naples Florida. Her philosophy is based on timeless and approachable design. Visit her online at: logannmcelfresh.com

Cooking CHEF TREVOR WITH

TREVOR J. GANZI

Private Chef

"In The Comfort Of Your Home"

Capeesh Italian Street Food (Food Truck)

Happy holidays everyone. To me there is nothing that represents the holidays quite like food…well prepared quality food.

My journey began bussing tables in an Italian restaurant in South Florida, and I immediately fell in love with the culinary industry. Yes, I started at the bottom, bussing tables, washing dishes, and prep cook. During those early years I learned the ins and outs of the restaurant business, from the front to the back.

I quicky realized I was blessed with a passion for cooking, and skills to match. My journey took me to the best restaurants in West Palm Beach Florida, and Westchester New York. I was able to work side-by-side with great chefs and great restaurateurs.

Now it is my time to give back and share my experience with you.

I began this introduction by talking about the holidays and the role food plays in family gatherings. For me there are a few staple dishes I always like include in my plans…and one of those is Risotto.

Originating in northern Italy in the 16th century, risotto was often served as a first course. While it has remained mostly unchanged since its move to America, like all things American, the serving sizes have increased, and different varieties and additions have been created.

I hope you like my recipe for Parmesan Risotto with Asparagus and Chicken.

My goals are simply: Feed people and make them happy. Nothing is more satisfying. Happy holidays and I hope to hear from you soon!

Parmesan Risotto with

Asparagus and Chicken ingredients

Chicken

Asparagus

Chicken Stock

Olive Oil

directions

1. Dice asparagus and cube chicken. Saute each separately with olive oil, salt, and pepper until cooked. Set Aside.

2. In a large sauce pot, melt on medium high heat olive oil and a stick of butter. Add diced onion and garlic. Saute till translucent.

3. Add two cups of rice, mix with a wooden spoon for 30 seconds. Add two cups of wine and cook off until absorbed.

4. Salt and pepper to your liking. Add 2 cups of chicken broth at a time. Stir till absorbed. Repeat till the rice is fully cooked. High heat repeating usually 6-8 times.

5. Once rice is cooked add in chicken and asparagus mix for 2 minutes.

6. Add 4 cups (or more for extra cheesy) of fresh parmesan cheese. Stir until creamy and serve!

Garnish with parsley or asparagus tips.

Chardonnay

Yellow Onion

Garlic Butter

Arborio rice

Salt Pepper

Parmesan

MORTGAGE 101

ADVICE FROM THE EXPERT

Navigating the mortgage process can be a confusing process even for the seasoned homeowner.

To shed some light on the process we sat down with the Executive Vice President of the Maxwell Mortgage team, Lauren Maxwell.

When interest rates begin to drop, at what point does it make sense to refinance?

It really depends on each client’s circumstances and how much money they would save. Can they drop PMI? Perhaps they want cash out instead of paying the 20% they are paying on credit cards. I would say the standard is 1% but if you want to drop PMI or take cash out, even paying more in a rate may save you money in the long run.

What is the difference between being pre-qualified and pre-approved?

A pre-qualification is less formal and less reliable. For a per-qualification the loan officers don’t always run your credit, they take what clients say verbally for income, assets and debts and issue a prequalification based on that “conversation.” I DO NOT WORK like that.

A "pre-approval" is more reliable. It involves doing a soft credit check, verifying income by reviewing current pay stubs and prior w-2s, and if self-employed, analyzing tax returns. I also review a current bank statement for cash to close. I will not pre-approve a borrower without analyzing all of their data thoroughly to determine their qualifications. When I issue a pre-approval- I know the loan WILL close

Does credit score affect the borrowers interest rate?

It depends on type of loan that you get. For conventional loans being over 740 would be the best, however for FHA/ VA being over 620 would be the best. But we can close a client as low as 580.

Peyton Williams

FAILURE IS A NATURAL OCCURRENCE IN THE HUMAN EXPERIENCE.

Personally, from what I’ve noticed, God likes to keep me humble in allowing me to fail at things daily. I like to think it’s played a role in developing my character. It’s given me thick skin.

Resilience

One of the more prominent examples of my many failures dates back to my freshman year of high school. It was the beginning of the year, and as a young 15 year girl would be, I was filled with much hope and expectation for this fresh start. It was an opportunity to explore new avenues and hobbies, build relationships with people and develop lifelong friends.

My best friends going into high school all played volleyball. I dabbled in it a bit, but was far from a natural. The extent of my experience with the sport was limited to playing a single season on a small team in middle school and PE class in elementary. Nevertheless, we all agreed we would try to make it on our high school team together. That way we’d get to spend every evening after school with one another at practice. We’d bond more, and most importantly, find our place in the jungle otherwise known as high school. We would have it made right from the start. However, I quickly found out that high school sports were highly competitive. Try-outs were no joke. They lasted three days and involved endless jumping, spiking, bumping and serving. The girls were all good, if not great. And me, far from it. It was hit or miss whether or not I could even get my overhand serve over the net at that time. Yet despite all this, I was still confident I could, at the very least, with even my little experience in the sport, make the JV team right? Wrong.

I got the call the last night of try-outs. I hadn’t made the team, and all my other friends had. In fact, I was part of a very small handful of girls who hadn’t made the team. It was a sucker punch to the gut. That entire fall volleyball season I was forced to hear about team bonding I couldn’t be a part of, listen to inside jokes I wasn’t in on, stay at school as all my friends left to prepare for an away game, amongst many other activities that I've forced my mind to block out over the years. At the time, I couldn’t help but think that this “brilliant” plan I had for myself turned out to backfire completely. I couldn’t think of anything to get my mind off this torment I was feeling from being left out.

Until one day, come springtime, once my friendships with those girls faded out and I gained the confidence to try something new again, I came across a poster for lacrosse tryouts. I had only ever heard of the sport. I had never watched a game and didn’t even know of anyone who had ever played. But I still thought to myself “what the heck, let's see what this is about, I already failed at one thing, what’s one more.” From then on the rest is history. Little did I know this wouldn’t turn out to be a failure, but one of my most profound accomplishments.

I fell in love with lacrosse. I made the JV team and then got moved up to varsity after my first game that same freshman year of high school. I became team captain my junior and senior year. I built amazing friendships and created memories that I will hold onto for a lifetime. I had bus rides to away games singing songs at the top of my lungs, and I had pit stops at Chick-Fil-A with the team on the way home. I got everything I wanted out of high school, but just in a different way than I had imagined.

I didn’t even think about going to college on a lacrosse scholarship, but then somehow that even happened for me. Today, I am proud to say I am a college graduate and an alum for the Ave Maria University Women’s lacrosse team. As rewarding and fulfilling it is to say I’m an ex 4 year college athlete, by all means it wasn’t easy. However, through this sport, I’ve developed consistency, drive, perseverance and discipline. I have learned to put my life in God’s hands, seeing he always knows what’s best.

I’ve gotten more out of this sport than I ever could have playing another sport. It gave me my most favorite memories and closest friends. I often think about that 15 year old me who thought the world was ending because she didn’t make her high school’s JV volleyball team. If only she knew there was something so much better in store, a sport she’d develop a real passion for, a sport she’d be willing to dedicate herself to, all in accordance to God’s plan. If it weren’t for this failure, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

WRITTEN BY PEYTON WILLIAMS (AMU 2024)

PHOTO PROVIDED

Del Webb Pickleball

Generates Excitement

On & Off the Court

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Whether you’re a baseline basher, a counterpuncher, or an all-rounder, you’ve seen the sport of pickleball grow, positioning the communities that support it to evolve, as well.

When Bill and Phyllis Olex first moved to the Del Webb Community nearly nine years ago, they’d never heard of pickleball.

“I didn’t know it existed. There were no courts near where I lived that I knew of, and I’d never heard anything about it,” said Phyllis.

Once she moved to Ave Maria and attended a beginner clinic with instructor Pat Devereux, she was hooked. Bill however, was still reluctant.

Bill said, ‘I’m not playing that stupid game for old people’, but then Phyllis finally convinced Bill to play, and before long, he was hooked. Now they both love it and are ranked 4.0 players. Phyllis, in addition to being an accomplished tournament player, is also a USAP Level 2 Pickleball Referee and a Certified Professional Pickleball Registry (PPR) Coach.

WHEN THE COUNTRY CAN’T STAY OUTTA THE KITCHEN

Known for being easy to learn but hard to master, pickleball has been finessing its way into American’s hearts since 1965 when it was invented in a Washington state backyard.

In recent years, pickleball, the fastest growing sport in the country, has also become the third most popular (behind biking and running), as the number of participants soars past those playing basketball, baseball, golf, soccer, and football, according to Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) data reports.

An estimated 36.5+ million players have picked up a paddle and heard that satisfying “thwack” sound when it comes into contact with the ball (comparatively, only 22.6 million Americans play tennis).

To accommodate the growing demand, developers are putting in pickleball courts left and right, seeing the clear benefits of four pickleball courts fitting into the same space as just one tennis court. The popular website, Pickleheads.com, lists 16,600 places to play in 6,800 cities around the world, ranking Florida (which has 770) as the second-most densely developed state in the nation. (See the Winter Issue of Simply Ave Marie for an exclusive interview with PIckleheads.com co-founder, Brandon Mackie).

The Del Webb Community has the largest amenity campus in Southwest Florida, with a lighted 12-court complex, a pristine pool, tennis, and bocce ball courts, a fitness center, and more. “There’s something for everyone,” said Bill. “It’s Disneyland for adults.”

OVERPOWERING THE PRECONCEPTIONS

Pickleball blurs the lines that have so long separated us in sports. It is a game where people of all ages and genders can play together. As the sport grows, however, changes are beginning to emerge.

Still one of the most accessible sports for women, co-ed equipment and mixed doubles play proves that in pickleball, women can be stronger players than men (which doesn’t happen in many other sports). As much a strategy game as it is a power game, tours offer equal purses for men and women, making it fun for fans to watch players with very different styles competing against one another in mixed matches.

What’s not so fun?

“Young people are taking over the sport,” said Bill. “Five years ago, the average player was age 53, now the average player is 33.” Players in their teens and twenties are taking over the top spots once belonging to professionals in their fifties amid a riff between the sports’ two governing bodies; the Association of Pickleball Professionals (APP) and the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA).

“I used to medal more frequently but it’s tougher now with more and more people playing better and better,” said Phyllis. “Today, a 4.0 is like a 4.5 used to be, and a 4.5 is like a 5.0. It’s pretty much one notch harder for players but there is better competition, so it can also be more fun.”

“When I step off the court, I ask, ‘Did we play well as a team? If we did that, we did well,” she said. Bill, who acknowledges what great exercise pickleball is, and how well it helps maintain the body’s health, said he defines a successful day in another way.

“I’m happy when I step off the court and am not injured. I’m doing well if I walked off the court in the same condition as I walked onto it.”

PIONEERING PLAY

After finding her footing on the court, Phyllis became Vice President of the Del Webb Pickleball Club. Open to all the residents in the 55+ community, for a nominal membership fee, the club’s 250+ members receive reserved time slots on the courts, access to club events, lessons, and clinics.

To enhance the experience, Phyllis said the Novozo Net Wizard training aid is one of the best training tools she’s found, allowing players to focus on perfecting specialized shots during drills.

Last year, the Olex’s, together with Pulte Homes, organized and ran the Del Webb Inaugural Winterfest Open. Despite being the coldest and wettest winter Florida has had in the past 35 years, the tournament attracted 400 people over the course of the two-day event.

“It was well-coordinated and well-received. People were walking off the courts saying it was one of the best tournaments they’ve played in,” said Bill. “All-in-all, it was a big success.”

This year, the Winterfest Open will be held on January 25th and 26th, 2025, at 6010 Del Webb Way, in Ave Maria. In addition to rousing pro exhibitions and mixed doubles teams vying for championship titles, there will be food trucks, entertainment, prizes, and giveaways, all to say - pickleball is here to stay.

Pickleball Problems

Treatment & Prevention of Common Injuries

Pickleball has become one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S. enjoyed by people of all ages. Along with its popularity, clinicians are seeing a rise in sport-related injuries. Understanding the causes, treatment options, and preventive measures of these injuries can help players stay active and healthy.

Quick lateral movements and sudden stops that stress the ankles can lead to sprains. Repetitive foot movements, unsupportive footwear and tight calf muscles may contribute to a condition called plantar fasciitis, a condition where strain is put on the plantar fascia, a thick, fibrous connective tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot, causing inflammation and pain. The pain can range from a dull, constant ache to an intense, shooting sensation. Repetitive swinging motions, such as a backhand shot, can strain the tendons in the forearm, leading to tennis elbow, involving pain and inflammation around the elbow joint. The sharp pivoting and direction changes in pickleball can also strain the Achilles tendon, and cause knee injuries such as meniscus tears.

“Ankle sprains are one of the most common acute injuries I see,” says Richard de Asla, MD, HSS (Hospital for Special Surgery) at NCH orthopedic surgeon. “Additionally, pickleball players represent the vast majority of Achilles tendon ruptures that we treat. It is crucial that Achilles tendon ruptures are diagnosed within 48 to 72 hours to increase the chance of success with non-operative treatment. Most other injuries are exacerbations of pre-existing conditions such as Achilles tendinosis, a relatively common degenerative condition of the Achilles tendon.”

Ruptured Achilles Tendon

Ryan Nelson PAC Orthopedics HSS at NCH

Richard de Asla MD Orthopedics

Treatments for pickleball injuries largely depend on the severity of the injury. For minor strains and sprains, the Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (R.I.C.E.) method is often recommended to reduce swelling and promote healing. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain and inflammation.

“Tennis elbow is extremely common amongst pickleball players,” said Ryan Nelson, PA-C, physician assistant at HSS at NCH Orthopedics Now. “While tennis elbow can benefit from early treatment, a large majority of patients improve over a six week to three-month period. Treatments include counterforce bracing, home exercise or physical therapy, cortisone injections, ultrasonic needle debridement, and surgery if needed.”

For more severe injuries, such as fractures or torn ligaments, medical intervention may be necessary. This could include immobilization through casts or braces, and in some cases, surgery to repair damaged tissues.

“If pain and swelling do not improve significantly within 72 hours following the R.I.C.E. method, patients should be evaluated by a medical professional,” says Dr. de Asla.

HSS at NCH Orthopedics Now walkin clinic is located at 1285 Creekside Blvd. E., Naples, FL 34109 and is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Patients can visit https://nchmd. org/services/hss-at-nch/orthopedicsnow/ or contact the clinic directly at (239) 624-1700 for more information.

While injuries may be common, risks can be reduced with proper preparation. Players may need a specific focus, and working with a personal athletic trainer, or physical therapist can be helpful to develop a customized program.

“Dynamic stretching (active tightening of a muscle and moving the joints through their full range of motion throughout the stretch) is probably an effective way to avoid injuries,” says Dr. de Asla. “An often-overlooked method of avoiding injuries is strengthening and conditioning. Additionally, a five to 10-minute warm up can significantly reduce risk of an injury.”

HSS at NCH Orthopedics Now provides access to general orthopedic care for nonemergency injuries. With reduced wait times and appointments available (but not required), the clinic offers care for a range of conditions, including but not limited to back and neck pain, bone, joint, or muscle injury within the past few days, bracing and splinting, joint aspirations, osteoarthritis, possible broken bones (closed fractures), sports injuries, and injuries to the hand, wrist or shoulder.

BUYING YOUR FIRST gun

WRITTEN BY KEVIN CREIGHTON

Asubtle shift has happened inside of America’s attitude towards guns. In the past, if you talked about guns, you were talking about hunting, or maybe one of the shotgun sports. Self-defense was important, but it wasn’t the main reason why people purchased a firearm.

This has changed in the last 50 years. Study after study has shown that the number one reason why people are buying firearms these days is for personal protection. People are beginning to realize that the first person to respond to a violent crime is the intended victim, and are choosing to become their own first responders.

However, going into a gun store to purchase a firearm can be an intimidating event. It’s like buying a new big screen TV for your home or upgrading the stereo in your car: There are a lot of technical terms and a lot of choices to make, sometimes with no clear distinction between one product and another. Guns, for the most part, are a consumer item, just like a blender or a microwave or a television, so what you plan on doing with your gun is going to affect what kind of gun you’re going to buy. For the purposes of this article, I’m going to assume you’re looking for something that is first and foremost to help keep yourself and your family safe inside your home and then maybe carry outside the home as well.

If that’s your situation, I would recommend starting with a modern, compact polymer service pistol in 9mm, such as the Glock G19, the Smith & Wesson M&P9 2.0 Compact or the SIG Sauer P320 Carry. All of these guns are very reliable, very safe to handle and very easy to use. Also, most of these have a wide variety of accessories available so your gun can grow in capabilities as you grow in your marksmanship ability.

One of the reasons why I recommend these particular guns to first-time gun buyers is because of the way they’re operated (also called their “manual of arms”), which is essentially the same for each and many other pistols as well. If you learn to shoot one of these guns well, chances are you’ll shoot well with just about any modern pistol. (We’ll leave the discussion on revolvers for a later time. I like ’em, but I believe their time has passed).

Also, while I really like long guns such as shotguns and rifles as home defense weapons, what they give you in terms of firepower comes at the cost of flexibility: it’s not as easy to move around inside your house with a long gun on your shoulder as it is with a pistol in your hand, and people tend to frown on slung shotguns being carried into a Walmart. Inside the home, a long gun is ideally suited to guarding a safe room, or for backing your defensive pistol with even more firepower.

The modern compact 9mm is close to the sweet spot of accuracy, firepower and concealability: they’re small enough to carry on a regular basis, they carry enough rounds to get the job done, and they are easy to shoot and practice with. I personally prefer 9mm because the recoil is manageable and the cartridge size allows you to have a good number of rounds with you at all times. If recoil is more of an issue, look at the Glock 42, Ruger Security-380 and S&W Shield EZ, as they’re about the same size as those other guns, yet shoot the lower-powered but still effective .380 ACP cartridge.

You may be tempted to buy another, smaller gun in 9mm other than the ones listed above because you believe you’ll carry a smaller gun more often than you will a larger one. While this is true, subcompact 9mm’s, like the SIG Sauer P365 or Glock 43, are to defensive firearms what on-screen keyboards are to touch-typing: they work well only if you know what you’re doing before you get one. However, just like an on-screen keyboard, they are easier to carry around if you choose to integrate concealed carry into your lifestyle.

No matter which option you chose, get training in how to effectively use your gun under stressful conditions, and make sure you maintain the skills you learned in class with regular practice, because the life you save may be your loved one’s. Or your own.

mARRIAGe PReP PRePARInG

Lifelong Love

As you stand on the threshold of one of the most significant chapters in your life, marriage, there's an often overlooked yet profoundly important step you should embrace: Marriage Prep. But what is Marriage Prep, and why should it be a priority in your journey toward a lifelong partnership?

WRITTEN BY JORGE & KARLA CEBREROS

Marriage Prep, also known as pre-marriage preparation, is a structured program designed to help couples build a solid foundation for their life together. This preparation process involves a series of five sessions, accompanied by a mentor couple, that focus on various aspects of married life. From communication and conflict resolution to financial management and family dynamics, Marriage Prep aims to equip couples with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of marriage successfully.

So why is it called Marriage Prep? Essentially, it's a preparatory phase designed to equip couples for the realities of married life. The term embodies the core purpose of the program: preparing for a lifelong commitment with the understanding and skills necessary to make it flourish.

Central to this preparation is placing God at the heart of your union, as He is the author and designer of marriage. Marriage is a divine institution, and without God at its center, sustaining a fulfilling and enduring union becomes a daunting challenge.

You might be tempted to think of Marriage Prep as just another box to check off on your wedding planning list, but its significance goes far beyond that. Many couples, both young and old, devote countless hours to planning their wedding reception—the venue, the guest list, the menu, and the décor—while sometimes neglecting to prepare for the marriage itself. This focuses on the wedding day rather than the marriage journey.

Marriage Prep offers a crucial opportunity to refocus on what truly matters: the relationship you are about to build and placing God at its center. Through the Sacrament of Marriage, God gives you His grace, which will support and sustain you throughout your journey together.

"Marriage is more than just celebrating love on a single day; it’s about learning to be a gift to one another every day."

The program encourages couples to reflect deeply on their expectations, values, and goals. Through meaningful discussions and exercises, couples gain valuable insights into each other’s perspectives and learn how to address and overcome potential challenges together.

Typically, Marriage Prep programs cover a range of topics, including:

• Communication: Learning effective ways to talk about feelings, expectations, and concerns.

• Conflict Resolution: Developing strategies for managing disagreements and finding common ground.

• Financial Planning: Understanding how to manage finances together, including budgeting and financial goals.

• Family Dynamics: Discussing topics like family traditions, roles, and expectations.

• Personal Growth: Exploring individual and joint aspirations and how they align with your shared future.

Marriage is more than just celebrating love on a single day; it’s about learning to be a gift to one another every day. It involves mirroring a deeper, sacramental love that reflects God’s love for His Church. By investing time and effort into Marriage Prep, you’re preparing not just for a wedding, but for a lifelong journey of mutual support, growth, and commitment. Ultimately, this preparation fulfills the most important aspect: God’s calling for you through the vocation of marriage, equipping you to reflect His love for His Church.

After you’ve prepared for your wedding day, consider continuing your journey with the Marriage Enrichment program, Transformed Marriages. This program offers couples the option to engage not only after they are married but also during their preparation period. By joining Transformed Marriages, you will have the opportunity to receive invaluable insights from other couples in the community, enriching your preparation and strengthening your relationship as you move towards your wedding and beyond.

&Clare Alexei

Wedding Date: June 29, 2024

PHOTOS BY SOFIE HARANGOZO

Our Story...

Clare and Alexei met during the week of orientation after both transferring to Ave Maria University. They became good friends almost immediately, then began dating during their first semester. They would talk for hours. They especially loved going to exotic restaurants and trying new things that they wouldn’t have thought to make at home. During his time in university, Alexei had made the habit of coming to Clare’s parent’s house in upstate New York for Christmas each year. Over the last Christmas break and a few days before Christmas, Alexei woke Clare up early to go watch the sunrise at her favorite overlook on the lake near her house. Once overlooking the lake, Alexei knelt down in the snow and asked Clare to be his wife – to which she happily agreed.

Fast forward 7 months, family, friends, and loved ones all gathered in upstate New York to celebrate our marriage. It is hard to find words to define just how beautiful the ceremony was. Following the ceremony, the reception was held in Clare’s parent’s backyard. It was a beautiful day, and we are grateful to everyone who worked to make the day special. Alexei will be attending Ave Maria School of Law and Clare will be teaching music at an elementary school this fall.

Advice to pass along...

Trust in God for everything with your wedding. Even if things do not pan out exactly as you might have wanted them, they often turn out for the best nonetheless.

Details

Ceremony Location: Canandaigua, NY

Reception: Bride’s Parent’s Backyard

Photographer: Sofie Harangozo

Gown: Vow’d

Bridesmaid's Dresses: Assorted

Grooms' Attire:

Tip-Top Tailors (Canadian Company)

Groomsmen Attire: Tip-Top Tailors

Rings: Brilliant Earth & Manly Bands

Flowers: Black Bantam Florals

Caterer: C&B Roasters

Party Favors: Photobooth

Photobooth: Full House Entertainment

DJ or Band: Full House Entertainment

First Dance: "Growing Old with You” by Restless Road

Honeymoon: Old Town Quebec

Special Touches...

Wedding date was on Grandparent’s Anniversary.

&Anna Rylan

Wedding Date: June 8, 2024

PHOTOS BY EMERY LONG

Our Story...

Rylan and I first met in the winter of 2020 at a Christmas party and began dating a few weeks later. We quickly formed a close bond telling stories about our childhood and family pets.

Since we lived just up the street from each other, we saw each other routinely each weekend when Rylan came back from working in Miami.

Rylan’s sunset proposal at the beach in Fall 2023 launched the wedding planning: making our own wooden flowers for the centerpieces, dress shopping, and picking out bridesmaids dresses are some of my favorite highlights. Our few years of friendship already feel like a lifetime together, we are excited for what the future holds for us both!

"Our few years of friendship already feel like a lifetime together.

Details

Ceremony Location: Ave Maria Parish

Reception: Grand Hall of Del Webb

Photographer: Emery Long

Gown: David's Bridal

Bridesmaid's Dresses: Birdy Grey

Hair: Salon d'Maria

Makeup: Joselyn Acosta Acevedo

Grooms' Attire: Perry Ellis

Groomsmen Attire: Perry Ellis

Rings: Kay Jewelers

Flowers: Sola Wood Flowers

Caterer: Artichoke & Company

Cake: Sassy Cakes

Party Favors: Shot glasses

DJ or Band: A DJ with Class

First Dance: "Until I Found You" by Stephen Sanchez

Honeymoon: Cruise in the Caribbean

Special Touches...

Rehearsal Dinner: Heritage Bay Golf & Country Club in Naples

A VISION FOR OUR Future

I recently sat down with Barron Collier Companies Vice President of Commercial Leasing, Cee Cee Marinelli

For those of you unfamiliar with Cee Cee, she is a powerhouse in Collier County, combining a friendly smile with laser focus.

The daughter of Paul Marinelli, who served as president and CEO of Barron Collier Companies before he passed in 2008, Cee Cee shared the same passion for continuing the legacy of Ave Maria.

Q.First, thank you for sitting down with me. Let’s dig right into it. Ave Maria is currently at 4,700 homes, on our way to 11,000 homes. The new business strip mall next to the gas station is a welcome addition. What are the next few planned commercial projects, and where?

Q.

Let’s talk about 2 big projects, a hotel, and a hospital. I heard about possible plans behind Publix or near Arthrex. Any updates or developments you can share with us?

A.

Our partnership with Naples Comprehensive Health (NCH) continues and the immediate care center is at the forefront of their priorities. Now that they will be opened, their shift in focus is going to be on a free-standing emergency room, similar to the model that they have on 951 and Immokalee Road. That would be the first phase in their expansion in eastern Collier County.

We are always looking for a hotel developer and operator and feel that a boutique hotel and venue space would be a welcome addition; however, at this time we do not have any partners.

A.Midtown, which is the business strip mall you are referring to, is the first project that garnered attraction from national tenants such as Ace Hardware, Dunkin’, Ledo Pizza and Cold Stone Creamery. The population of Ave Maria has a reached a point that triggered more interest from national brands, so we will see more development in the Park of Commerce. At this time, we are looking for free standing restaurants, and we will likely develop a future retail center. Our goal is to draw businesses that bring a valuable service to the community. Through our real estate team, we have exceptional interest from numerous prospects, and we will continue to prioritize community needs and services.

Q.On page 58 we have a story on pickle ball. As you probably know, it is one of the fastest growing sports in the country. Unfortunately, we don’t have one single community-wide accessible court. Any plans?

A.Yes! As a matter of fact, you will soon see construction begin on the phase one expansion of the North Park which will include 12 pickle ball courts with covered seating. Estimated completion should be Spring 2025. A portion of the North Park improvements will be paid for by the recent impact fee agreement that we have with Collier County. The Ave Maria Master Association will be collecting the community and regional park impact fees from new home builds that would normally be paid to Collier County. These funds will go towards future park improvements in Ave Maria.

Q.The larger lake next to Arthrex could be a perfect location for a park with a fishing dock, trails, and lake-side attractions. Any thoughts or plans for that area?

A.It is great you asked. Yes, actually. It is in its final stage as an active fill pit. Once that operation ceases, the lake is proposed to be a recreational lake that can be used for fishing, with non-motorized sports like canoeing, and kayaking. Trails are in future plans to enable residents to enjoy the beautiful outdoors even more. We are in the process of programming these future amenities and hope to share more information on them in 2025.

Q.Let’s talk real estate. As Ave Maria continues to build out, does Barron Collier have optional land available for building in the future? If so, where is it and what are potential plans?

A.

We have recently expanded Ave Maria’s footprint (SRA boundaries) with 540 acres on the east side of Ave Maria Boulevard. This is the sod farm which consists of additional commercial, open space, parks and residential areas. The planned commercial area of the sod farm is where we envision big, national tenants to be located. We are working with a national planning firm to ensure we have the best concept for Ave Maria.

We are also working on entitling 1,000 acres to the east, at entrance of Pope John Paul II and Camp Keais, as well as 1,100 acres to the north of Ave Maria. The potential plans are not certain yet, but will most likely be residential units with additional commercial uses along Immokalee Road.

SOD FARM

AVE MARIA BOULEVARD

OIL WELL ROAD

FOOTPRINT

OF

THE RETREAT-STYLE COLLIER ROD AND GUN CLUB AT THE PRESERVE

Q.

Oil Well Road is going to look completely different in the next decade. Is Barron Collier involved in any of those projects?

A.

The only project BCC is involved in on Oil Well Road is Collier Rod & Gun at the Preserve, located to the east of Ave Maria. This development will be 2,000 acres, coexisting among the native vegetation and wildlife. It will include single-family seasonal residences, member-only rental cabins and amenities, such as a private golf course and sporting club for up to 300 members and an extensive trail system designed around the natural terrain.

SpeedROUND

Cee Cee, Thank you for your time. I am sure we will talk many times in the future. Before we leave, let’s do a quick speed round.

BOOKS ON YOUR BEDSIDE TABLE: Braving the Wilderness by Brené Brown

FAVORITE DESSERT: Cookies and cream ice cream

LAST MOVIE WATCHED: Descendants 4

LAST TRIP: Alaska and British Columbia

FAVORITE HOLIDAY: Christmas

TEXT OR TALK: Email

FAVORITE QUOTE: “What you do has far greater impact than what you say.” - Stephen Covey, Author & Educator