Simply Ave Maria Spring 2025

MARIA

Constitution Minute

BROUGHT TO YOU BY HILLSDALE COLLEGE

Many argue today that the Constitution is outdated because it addresses problems peculiar to the 18th century. Some parts of the constitution do read rather quaintly but consider the injunction against titles of nobility in Article 1, Section 9 of the Constitution. Is that so outdated? The purpose of that injunction is to prevent the government granting special privileges to some, for partisan reasons. This strikes at the heart of the rule of law. The crony capitalism so common today is a place where the government bestows favors and tax dollars on some businesses to give them a leg up over others. This is exactly the kind of thing the Constitution was meant to prohibit. Perhaps the Constitution is not so outdated after all.

Award Winning Town!

Ave Maria Development, the developer of the town of Ave Maria, was recognized in 12 categories for 13 awards by the National Association of Home Builders.

GOLD AWARDS INCLUDE:

• Best Print Campaign – Series of Ads

• Best Radio Commercial or Campaign SILVER AWARDS INCLUDE:

• Master-Planned Community of the Year

• Marketing Professional of the Year –Builder/Developer (Michelle Mambuca, APR)

• Best Website for a Community

• Best Social Media Campaign

• Best Community Welcome Center

• Best Brochure for a Master-Planned Community

• Best Digital Marketing Campaign

• Best Overall Advertising Campaign

• Best Radio Commercial or Campaign

• Best Print Ad – Single Ad

• Best 30-60 Second Commercial

AVE MARIA

® OWNER/PUBLISHER

Chad Beatty

MAGAZINE DESIGNERS

Kacie Cotter-Harrigan

ADVERTISING DESIGNER

Kacie Cotter-Harrigan

Kelly Schoonbeck

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Chad Beatty

Becky Bruehl Bestul

Paul Forte

Chef Trevor Ganzi

Mary Harp-Jirschele

Helen Midney

Katherine Morna Towne

Megin Potter

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Christian Apicella

Ave Maria University

Yvvette Forte

Dan Heary

Randall Perry Photography

EDITORIAL/PHOTOGRAPHY

518-248-2080

cbeatty@oilwellpublishing.com

SALES

Chad Beatty

cbeatty@oilwellpublishing.com

PUBLISHED BY

OIL WELL PUBLISHING Ave Maria, FL

BECKY BRUEHL BESTUL

A resident of Ave Maria since building a home here in 2015, Becky Bruehl Bestul is an awardwinning, 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.

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.

JIM

Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Jim was elected as a Member to the PGA of America in October of 2000. In 2005, Jim moved to Naples, Florida, where he accepted the position of Head Golf Professional at Tiburon Golf Club. Jim was also a golf instructor at the Rick Smith Golf Academy at Tiburon Golf Club, where he was able to learn and teach alongside PGA tour Instructor Rick Smith. In October of 2022 an opportunity came about to join the Del Webb community as the new Director of Golf at Panther Run Golf Club. In the past 3 years, Jim has assembled a truly unique team of golf professionals who provide instruction to players of all ages and skill levels.This year Jim will be inducted into the Quarter Century Club of the PGA of America for 25 years of

contributors

PAUL FORTE

Paul is a writer originally from Edinburgh, Scotland. He is a graduate of the Edinburgh Napier University with a degree in English Literature, Journalism, Communications and Media Studies.

After graduating, he embarked upon a career as a columnist, feature writer and editor. Upon moving to the United States, Paul turned to freelance writing and, while living in East TN,he enjoyed writing for the ‘Visiting the Smokies’ magazine, showcasing one of the most popular vacation spots in Eastern US. To relax Paul enjoys finding new spots to eat breakfast with his wife, Yvete and playing games.

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 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 smokefilled 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.

SHARON LEVESQUE

Sharon has been an active member of the Ave Maria community both professionally and personally since relocating to SWFL in 2018. As a full-time REALTOR®, Sharon has consistently won awards as a top producing agent. She is a mom of three adult children and is fondly known as Nana to her two grandchildren. Coming into the real estate industry five years ago, Sharon sought to understand God's mission in her new career. Having worked for the Church previously, she began to understand that she was called to serve God's people in real estate. Serving her customers in her capacity as a REALTOR® with Realty ONE Group MVP and previously with MVP Realty has become her passion

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.

KATHERINE MORNA 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.

EVENTS

TUESDAYS & SATURDAYS through April 26

LIVE MUSIC | Town Center

Enjoy shopping and dining with live music from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

TUESDAYS through April 22

TROLLEY TOURS | Ave Maria Welcome Center

Enjoy a complimentary 1-hour narrated trolley tour around town, learn its history and enjoy live entertainment. Tours depart from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. on the hour. For questions call (239) 352- 3903

SATURDAY April 5

MARGARITA AND TACO FESTIVAL | Town Center

From Noon to 5 p.m. bring your lawn chairs and the family to enjoy live bands, food trucks featuring Mexican specialties, exotic animal show, car show

SATURDAY April 26

EASTERTIDE PLAY

Ave Maria Parish, Annunciation Circle Visit AveMariaparish.org for more information.

SATURDAY May 3

MARIAN CONCERT | Ave Maria Parish 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit AveMariaParish.org

SATURDAY June 21

KICK OFF TO SUMMER | Ave Maria North Park

For town residents only, water- based fun for the family from 9 a.m. – Noon.

MONDAY September 1

LABOR DAY CELEBRATION | Ave Maria Water Park

For town residents only, music, food and fun for the whole family from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

SATURDAYS through April 26

AVE MARIA FARMER’S MARKET

Town Center

Browse and shop locally sourced goods and services with entertainment from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

TWO WEEKENDS IN APRIL

Friday, Apr. 4, Saturday, Apr. 5

Friday, Apr. 10, Saturday, Apr. 11 & Sunday, Apr. 12

SHAKESPEARE IN PERFORMANCE

Donahue Family Black Box Theater, Ave Maria University

Please contact the University for more information.

SATURDAY April 12

SPRING FESTIVAL | Ave Maria Water Park

For town residents only, from 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., featuring the annual Easter Egg Dash and Bunny Hop, bunny parades and egg hunts.

SUNDAY April 27

DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY PRAYERS

Ave Maria Parish 3 – 4 p.m.

MONDAY May 26

MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY

Veterans Memorial Park, 169 Ave Maria Blvd. Mini Parade, ceremony, food and music from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

FRIDAY July 4

GOD BLESS AMERICA PARADE Church Piazza 10 a.m. – Noon

4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION

Ave Maria Water Park For town residents only, food and fun for the family from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

118 FEET

HEIGHT OF THE CHURCH

SQ. FT OF THE CHURCH

27,000

5 HURRICANE CATEGORY STRENGTH

Ave Maria Church BY THE NUMBERS 2006

22 NUMBER OF MASSES OFFERED EACH WEEK

150 NUMBER OF CEMENT TRUCKS USED TO SET THE FOUNDATION

54

NUMBER OF PIECES OF WOOD MAKING UP EACH PEW END

THE YEAR THE CORNERSTONE WAS LAID

2008

THE YEAR AVE MARIA ORATORY, AS IT WAS THEN KNOWN, WAS DEDICATED

800 LBS.

THE WEIGHT OF EACH LIGHT IN THE CHURCH

1,100 CAPACITY OF THE CHURCH

14 NUMBER OF STATIONS OF THE CROSS

3,500 LBS. WEIGHT OF THE MARBLE BAPTISMAL FONT AS YOU ENTER THE CHURCH

100 YEARS THE AGE OF THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS, SAVED FROM A CHURCH IN DETROIT

17 NUMBER OF HOURS IT TOOK TO POUR THE CONCRETE (IT IS A SOUTHWEST FLORIDA RECORD)

18 inches HEIGHT OF THE 12 APOSTLE STATUES ON THE FAÇADE OF THE CHURCH

3,500,000 POUNDS OF STEEL USED IN BUILDING THE CHURCH

8 NUMBER OF CONFESSIONALS

23 FEET & 4,200 LBS.

THE HEIGHT AND WEIGHT OF THE CRUCIFIX OVER THE SANCTUARY

80 PEOPLE CAPACITY OF THE CHOIR LOFT

spring '25 FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK

CHAD BEATTY, OWNER & PUBLISHER

cbeatty@oilwellpublishing.com 518-248-2080

Greetings fellow Ave Marians.

Today let’s discuss a topic which seems to be disconcerting and bewildering to many, the traffic roundabout.

Yes, the roundabout; filled with entrances, exits, curves and cars. (and golf carts in Ave Maria, so please watch out for them!)

As I was preparing this piece, an elusive thought popped into my head, “Is there a legal limit as to how many times one can drive around it before exiting? While I never did find the answer to that question, I am happy to provide some information which should help those of you who seem stymied when approaching the circle. Yes, we see you, paused at the entrance to the roundabout, waiting for vehicles which are still a block away! There are times you need to yield/stop when entering a roundabout, but an empty roundabout is not one of them.

The purpose of a roundabout is to improve efficiency and reduce traffic delays, so if you aren’t ‘flowing’ into the roundabout when it is clear, you are defeating its purpose. To help us shed light on this, and provide accurate information, we enlisted the help of our District Manager, Allyson Holland. We know there are many of you who have little experience with roundabouts or may be confused, so please review the information carefully so we can all have a safe and enjoyable experience driving in circles.

Enjoy and God Bless!

- Chad

NAVIGATING A SINGLE-LANE ROUNDABOUT

Ave Maria GOVERNMENT Ave Maria Stewardship Community District

Part II

The Ave Maria Stewardship District maintains the infrastructure outside of Ave Maria’s neighborhoods. This includes Ave Maria Boulevard, Anthem Parkway (except in Del Webb town center), Parts of Roma Street, Sidewalks and Golf Cart paths on Stewardship roads. This includes all the grass and landscaping on public roads.

Your primary contact for Ave Stewardship District is:

ALLYSON HOLLAND DISTRICT MANAGER 239-867-4322 aholland@sdsinc.org

A Stewardship Community District is an independent, special taxing district authorized by a special act of the Florida Legislature. It provides a mechanism to finance, construct and maintain high quality improvements and amenities. Allyson works for SDS (Special District Services), which is the management company for Ave Maria.

FEES

Ave Maria Stewardship District is funded by two assessments:

1. O&M (Operations & Maintenance) based on the type of land use on which your property is located.

a. The typical single-family home is $583.19 in 2025.

b. In 2026 that will increase to $685.39

2. Debt Assessment based on the Bond series for your property.

The assessment is on your Collier County property tax bill, which is sent each November.

WHAT THEY CAN DO

• Construct and maintain public infrastructure

• Levy and collect non-ad valorem assessments for operations and maintenance & bond debt service

• Contract for services

• Borrow money & issue bonds

• Adopt rules

• Maintain an office

• Charge fees

• Levy, collect & enforce special assessments

• Stormwater management infrastructure

• Water and wastewater infrastructure

• Roadways and street lighting

• Hardscaping, landscaping, irrigation

• Conservation areas, mitigation areas, and wildlife habitats

• Any project set forth in a development order or interlocal agreement

MEETINGS

Monthly Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of every month at 4 PM.

Once a quarter they are held at 6 PM.

Location: Master Association.

AMSCD RESPONSIBILITY MAP

BOARD

The board consists of five supervisors, three of whom are appointed by Barron Collier, and two of whom are nominated by residents.

CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS ARE:

• Nick Casalanguida

• Naomi Robertson

• Tom Diflorio

• Robb Klucik

• Jay Roth

COMMON INQUIRIES

Below are some common inquiries and questions the Stewardship District may receive:

• My streetlight is out.

• There is a pothole in the road.

• What is my assessment?

• An irrigation head is shooting water all night long.

• There is a nuisance alligator.

FUN FACT

This is your Ave Maria Stewardship Community District team. If you see them driving by in their mini-trucks, don’t be afraid to flag them down. They keep Ave Maria clean and running smoothly.

EASY SHOPPING

We make shopping easy... from apparel, leotards, shorts, skirts, shoes, and tights!

AVAILABLE AT...

AVE MARIA DANCE ACADEMY

5068 Annunciation, Ave Maria 239-261-2606 • AveMariaDanceAcademy.com

DON'T LEAVE TOWN WITHOUT

A Sicilian bouquet of aroma, Bona Furtuna’s Italian olive oil gift set includes our favorite olive oil and dipping spices.

AVAILABLE AT…

STELLA ROSE WAY

5064 Annunciation Circle, Ave Maria 239-207-6560 Stellaroseway.com

BURGER MASTER

Make "Smashburgers" at home on the BBQ!

AVAILABLE AT… THE BROUTIQUE Mercado at Ave Behind Publix TheBroutique.com

WRAPPED IN GRACE

Custom made, one of a kind, wraparound rosary bracelets. Perfect for any occasion!

AVAILABLE AT…

STELLA ROSE WAY

5064 Annunciation Circle, Ave Maria 239-207-6560 • Stellaroseway.com

Keep your faith close to your heart with these Catholic pendant necklaces. A variety of designs, and colors available.

AVAILABLE AT … AVE MARIA RELIGIOUS GIFTS

5080 Annunciation Circle 239-867-4336 • AveMariaReligiousGifts.com

101 Devotions for Men Encouragement for a life of righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness.

AVAILABLE AT… THE BROUTIQUE Mercado at Ave, Behind Publix • TheBroutique.com

Manners... For Everyday Life

Simply put, manners are a person’s behavior toward others. What better way to work on our virtue than to begin working on our manners. Below are some common everyday manners we can all employ, from children to adults, and everyone in between.

BE MINDFUL OF YOUR LANGUAGE:

• Foul language has no place in public, especially around women and children.

• Speak in moderate tones.

• Don’t lie, especially to or around your children.

PUT OTHERS FIRST:

• Let someone else have the best parking space.

• When at a potluck meal, take your food in moderation, being aware that others still have to come up to get their food.

• Let others enter and exit an elevator before you.

• Open the door for others.

• Return your shopping cart to the appropriate place. (I can tell a LOT about a person while in the parking lot at a grocery store!)

• Be kind to waiters and waitresses:

- Don’t snap your fingers or whistle for their attention.

- Don’t speak down to them.

- If they make a mistake, make them aware of it graciously.

SAY THE FOLLOWING WORDS OFTEN:

• Please

• Thank You

• You’re Welcome.

DON’T LITTER:

• Don’t throw things out your car window.

• Don’t throw unwanted mail on the ground at the mailboxes.

• Don’t open a package at the mailboxes and leave the empty box there for someone else to throw away.

AT GATHERINGS:

• Make room for others.

• Seek out anyone who seems alone and befriend them.

CLOTHING:

• Dress with respect, whether at church, at the pool or at a restaurant.

• Modesty in dress supports purity and chastity and avoids tempting others to sin.

PETS:

• Clean up after your pet.

• Keep them on leashes during walks.

AT THE POOL OR BEACH:

• Keep your music low enough that others can’t hear it.

• Don’t have conversations on speakerphone.

IN THE CAR:

• Don’t play your music so loud that everyone in the neighborhood hears it.

• When an emergency vehicle is approaching, pull off to the side of the road to allow them room to pass. (and don’t play your music so loud you can’t hear the sirens)

• Don’t pass on the right, that’s what the left lane is for.

• Do not pass golf carts (on a single lane road) who are legally sharing the road.

Kn w kn ts YOUR

WRITTEN BY CHAD BEATTY

1

2

Step 1

Make a figure 8 in your rope, near the end that you are tying. This is a simple overhand knot that you loop one extra time around the strand of rope. It should look like a figure 8. Make sure to leave enough rope after the 8 to go around your anchor and to feed it back through your knot.

Step 2

Loop the extra rope around your anchor point.

Step 3

As the name indicates (Figure 8 Follow Through), you are going to simply retrace the original rope through the knot.

See figures A, B, C.

In the last edition we learned the ‘Figure 8 On A Bight’.

The Figure 8 On A Bight is a quick and simple knot used when you need to connect your rope to a carabiner, or any open-ended element such as a post, hook, tow hitch etc.

When the object to which you need to anchor does not have an open-end point, another option is required, and of my favorites is the Figure 8 Follow-Through. It has the strength and durability of the Figure 8 on a Bight, but you are tied directly into your anchor point.

Practice this one with your family, have some fun, and add a valuable skill that will last a lifetime.

4 D 5 5A

Step 4

Dress the knot and tighten it.

*Dressing the knot is the process of arranging a knot in such a way as to improve its performance. A properly dressed knot should look clean and organized, with all the lanes aligned and none of the strands crossing over. This improves the knot’s strength and helps with untying.

See figure D for an improperly dressed knot.

Step 5

Make sure the tail of the rope (the free end of the rope after the knot) is at least 2” long.

If you have too much tail, you can clean it up with a simply overhand knot on the original strand.

Mothering Boys

Not only am I the mom of four former middle schoolers and one current middle schooler, but I’ve been teaching middle schoolers this year as well. I have been reminded of this article — which I wrote almost ten years ago — many times over the last few months and thought it might be helpful for some of you as well.

I read recently about two recent studies that focused on parenting middle schoolers (sixth- through eighth-graders) — one found that parents (especially mothers) of middle schoolers are more stressed than at any other time of their parenthood; the other said that parents’ confidence in their parenting abilities declines during the middle school years.*

I hadn’t gone looking for information about parenting a middle schooler — an article discussing the two studies popped up in my Facebook newsfeed — but I felt like it made a little more sense of some things that have been going on here.

Mystifying Middle Schoolers

WRITTEN BY KATHERINE MORNA TOWNE

My two oldest boys are in this age range — one will be entering middle school next year, the other is going into seventh grade — and until this summer I’d been reveling in all the positives this new age brings. I watched my oldest boy navigate sixth grade last year — the first year of middle school for our whole family — and I was blown away by the huge, marked increase in independence in his academics and his real interest in and love for volunteering and community service, as well as increasingly interesting and fun conversational skills. I was already seeing those things when he stepped it up even more when my motherin-law fell ill this past February — every Saturday for the last two months she was alive, my son tended to his grandmother by reading to her, washing dishes, staying out of the way if needed, and generally being a companion to my husband, who spent the entirety of every Saturday caring for his mom. My boy never complained, and seemed to really understand how important it was that he give his best.

But despite some really lovely behavior outside the house, my kids have always been prone to letting their standards slide when they’re in the comfortable environment of home. When my oldest was a toddler I remember asking the pediatrician why he was so well behaved outside the house and so hard to handle inside it? He told me then that it was because my son was comfortable at home — that we’d succeeded in creating the safe environment we always wanted our home to be for our kids, and so our boy knew that no matter how badly he behaved, we’d still love him. The first half of this summer was sort of like the middle-school equivalent of that, and I was so taken off guard that I wasn’t quite sure what to do. For better or worse, my gut reaction for every kind of bad behavior is to crack down, dole out punishments, and restrict privileges, with the goal of nipping bad behavior in the bud as quickly as possible. But not only did my usual course of action not seem to be working, I wasn’t even sure that it was the right approach in general. I’d seen in the last year the beginnings of the emergence of a man where my little boy had once been. I’d seen goodness and honor and integrity of a more mature kind showing itself. My way of dealing with small children seemed, all of a sudden, somewhat inappropriate for this fast-growing, quickly maturing young man.

What to do? About halfway through the summer, I felt that I’d had more than enough. I was at my wit’s end, I was tearing my hair out, I was yelling, I was crying … and then the most amazing thing happened! Just when I felt like things couldn’t possibly get worse (don’t laugh, you parents of older kids! I do know it can get worse), things all of a sudden got better. Like, a thousand times better. One hundred and eighty degrees better.

All of a sudden, he started putting forth real effort to be patient with his brothers. To be accommodating to the ways in which I need things to run for smooth, peaceful days. To be self-sufficient and even proactive — he told me, for example, that for my birthday he was going to clean the front room. Cleaning and similar daily chores were one of the things we butted heads about the most at the beginning of the summer, and here he was, telling me he was going to do it on his own? Without prodding, pleading, or threatening? I admit I thought, “We’ll see,” and for the next week I did just that — I watched how every day he spent huge chunks of time doing the deepest of deep cleans. When it was done, we had a room that was immaculate — clutter-free, clean, cozy. Then he decided to move on to one of the bathrooms. Then I needed the other bathroom cleaned and asked if he would help me with it, and not only did he say yes right away, but he did more than what I asked.

The last half of this summer has kind of been like a dream! And I’ve made sure to tell him, as many times as I think of it, how grateful I am for all his attempts at helpfulness and self-control and good humor.

I’m not really sure what to expect going forward, which seems to basically be the idea with the middle-school age. The Wall Street Journal article that discussed the two studies described it thusly: “The turbulence that hits sixth- through eighth-graders often begins with the onset of puberty, bringing physical changes and mood swings.”* Turbulence, changes, mood swings, indeed.

I totally get it — I’m sure we all can, if we remember back to our own middle-school days. Remembering it’s not easy on the kids either is helpful! But I do know I’m encouraged by what I’ve seen so far, and the next time we hit a rough patch (as I’m sure you more experienced parents know will happen), I’ll spend a lot of time sitting in my clean front room trying to remember all the good things middle school can bring.

*Luther and Ciciolla.“What it feels like to be a mother: Variations by children’s developmental stages.” Dev Psychol. 2016 January; 52 (1): 143–154, and Glatz and Buchanan. “Change and Predictors of Change in Parental Self-Efficacy from Early to Middle Adolescence.” Dev Psychol. 2015 October; 51 (10): 1367-1379 as discussed in Shellenbarger, Sue. “Mom’s Middle-School Blues.” The Wall Street Journal. May 17, 2016; available at www.wsj.com/articles/moms-middle-school-blues-1463505537.

Kate and her husband have seven sons ages 20, 18, 16, 15, 13, 10, and 6. Email her at kmtowne23@gmail.com.

Mother Teresa MUSEUM

WRITTEN BY MARY HARP-JIRSCHELE | PHOTOS COURTESY OF AVE MARIA UNIVERSITY

At first glance, the Mother Teresa Museum on the Ave Maria University campus simply looks like one of those must-do stops for visitors to the burgeoning town. Upwards of 10,000 people annually tour the 3,000-square-foot space to learn about her life, view unique memorabilia and watch a much-heralded documentary about her vision to serve the poor of the world. But there is so much more to it.

Beyond the museum itself, impressive as it is, the heart of its mission is a program called The Mother Teresa Project at Ave Maria University. It’s the first of its kind in the world and has been authorized by the Missionaries of Charity, Mother Teresa’s order. The project is designed to produce graduates who will “spread Mother’s compassion and teachings to a new generation…and spread peace in the same manner she did – one person at a time.”

James Stella came to the university four years ago specifically to head up the project. “The opportunity to imbue Mother’s love for the poor into the spiritual lives of students is what brought me here,” he said. Under his watch, the Mother Teresa Scholar Program is helping students, through study and service, to follow in her footsteps and be agents of change in our society.

Students who enter the program are required to complete a spiritual formation series of retreats, lectures and book reviews, as well as participate in 75 hours of service work and attend a mission trip. “The mission trips are lifechanging experiences for the students. They spend time with the Missionaries of Charity sisters, doing things like working in their soup kitchens during the day and praying with them at night,” he said.

“I tell students that it’s easy to forget the world outside when the one you live in is so faith-filled,” Stella said. “The program helps them to look outward, beyond the campus. In serving others, their everyday anxieties subside, and it changes their perspective. They appreciate what God has given them. Seeing them learn the benefits of service is what keeps me coming back.”

© Ave Maria University

Stella made a point of expanding service hours and mission opportunities when he arrived. His background includes nearly a decade at Caritas Internationalis in Vatican City, delivering humanitarian assistance throughout the world. That provided his impetus to extend the reach and participation in the Mother Teresa Project when he arrived here. And as a result, students logged more than 8,500 service hours last year, compared to an average of 5,500 in previous years.

One of the most-impactful missions for a group of students in the project was one in their own “backyard.” Stella said, “Mother Teresa always said, ‘Stay where you are. Find your own Calcutta.’ Calcutta is all over the world, it’s in your own backyard,’ and we found it in Immokalee.” Fifty students went door-to-door in a neighborhood handing out meals and it had a profound impact on them, as Stella tells it. On the upside, the students were amazed at how happy the children were, despite their living conditions. On the other hand, they saw true poverty just down the street from their own comfortable living environment.

MORE ABOUT JAMES STELLA

Full name: James Stella

Hometown: Grew up on the north shore of Boston with two loving parents (1st generation Italian-Americans)

Education: University of Massachusetts at Lowell; Northeastern University (MBA)

Favorite food you wish they had in Ave: Lobster

What’s one thing that people don’t know about you? I have an Italian greyhound named Luigi.

If you could go anywhere on vacation (without considering time away, money, etc.), where would it be? The Holy Land

What’s the most rewarding thing you’ve ever done? Moved to Italy to work for the Church

Do you have a “mission statement” for your life? I’m a simple man. I’m just out here trying to make sure I get to Heaven with as many people around me as possible.

© Ave Maria University

© Ave Maria University

The museum itself is central to the service element of the scholar program. “How can they go on a service project without knowing why they’re going to do it?” Stella asked. “We bring students into the museum, give them a guided tour, and help them understand whose footsteps they are going to walk in. I wish I had had this experience as a young person. We’re planting seeds, and these seeds will yield faith and action. I believe that our relationship with the Lord is incomplete without service.”

The museum in Ave Maria is the only museum dedicated to Mother Teresa in the United States, and one of three in the world. Another is in Calcutta, site of the Mother House of the Missionaries of Charity and home to Mother Teresa’s tomb. The third site is in her hometown of Skopje, North Macedonia, where she lived from 1910-1928. The Mother Teresa Memorial House was built in 2008 on the location where she was baptized.

Ave Maria’s museum was developed in 2011 by Jim Towey, who was not only the university’s second president, but was Mother Teresa’s legal counsel from 1985 to 1997, when she died. In establishing the museum, “Jim had the vision to inspire students with her life of service to the Lord by working with the poorest of the poor,” Stella said. The Papal Foundation helped start the museum thanks to its mission of “fulfilling the requests of the Holy Father for the needs of the church.”

“Jim’s aim was not just to start a museum; his mission was to educate the students and help ensure Mother Teresa’s

legacy remains intact,” Stella said. Towey, in addition to others who had built a relationship with Mother Teresa, donated and/or loaned numerous items to the museum to help populate the memorabilia cases. There are handwritten letters from Mother Teresa, a crucifix from her rosary and 30 panels of information in both Spanish and English that tell the story of her life. There are publications from her state funeral in India as well as the beatification and canonization ceremonies at the Vatican. There is a theater with an impactful documentary on her life, “Mother Teresa: No Greater Love.”

“We like to bring people into the museum for book discussions, reflections, and guest speakers. We want people to remember Mother Teresa’s life and act on it,” Stella said. “Service is a sacrifice, but as St. Paul said, ‘those who give are more blessed than those who receive’.”

Stella says that every person’s journey through the museum is different, from one-day visitors to the students who live on campus. “I’ve seen their time here have a huge impact on them personally. One 80-year-old man was moved to tears after a tour. Another said to me, ‘Wow, I could have done a lot more in my life.’ You never know exactly what moved them.” But it’s certain that something or someone did.

The Mother Teresa Museum is open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday and closed on Sunday. It is located in the Prince Building at 5050 Ave Maria Blvd. Free guided tours are available by calling 239-304-7954

WRITTEN BY BECKY

BESTUL PHOTOS PROVIDED

BARKS IN THE PARK

BRUEHL

WWhen Del Web resident Kelly Stevenson-Crews gets home from work, her two mixed-breed rescue dogs, Cooper and Duke, are waiting at the door for her. But she doesn’t go into the house. They all jump in the car and go to the South Park dog park in Ave Maria.

“The dogs like to come out here and run,” Stevenson-Crews said on a sunny, winter afternoon. “They can interact with dogs and people, it’s good for their overall well-being.”

Stevenson-Crews appreciates the large size of the dog park, and that there’s shade and benches for owners while their dogs exercise. She also likes that there’s an area for larger dogs like Cooper and Duke, and an area for small dogs.

Dot Leibowitz brings her little Shih Tzu/Poodle mix to the small-dog side of the dog park almost every afternoon. “I come supposedly for him but I have met so many friendly people from all over the community,” she said. “He was a COVID puppy and I brought him here, I could stay outside and meet people. It worked.”

The South Park dog park is part of the parks system for all residents managed by the Ave Maria Master Association. Joseph Lampkin is the Parks and Recreation Manager for the Master Association. He said the dog parks are an important socializing space. “We always see our residents taking the time to mingle and catch up on Ave Maria news or events while their dogs play,” he said. But owners should also keep an eye on their dogs, manage their behavior and remove them if they display aggressive behavior with other dogs.

Joelyn Ainley is a second-time, seasonal renter in The National from Georgia. “The dog park is one of the reasons we love it here---along with the golf course and the weather.” Her white golden doodle, Chloe, gets to visit the dog park twice a day most days. “When we saw the signs for the dog park, we were thrilled, it’s such a great place for the dogs to socialize.” Ainley admits to knowing all the dogs’ names before learning the names of their humans. But it was a nice way to meet people, too, she said.

Veterinarian Rob Fox, of Faithful Friends Animal Hospital in Ave Maria, agrees dog parks can be a great way to provide enrichment and socialization. “Additionally, they can be an outlet for high energy dogs who seem `cooped up’ inside,” Fox said.

On the flip side, though, dog parks can spread germs, just like sending children to kindergarten, he said. “Contagious gastrointestinal and respiratory illnesses are pretty common amongst dogs visiting communal areas,” Fox said. Dogs should be properly vaccinated for rabies, parvovirus, and Bordetella to protect them and others, and they should receive flea prevention.

“We see many illnesses that we suspect come from dog-dog interactions,” Fox said. “These can be from the dog park or just interacting on a walk.” Dogs with symptoms of a contagious illness (coughing, sneezing, vomiting, diarrhea) should not attend dog parks.

Faithful Friends also receive calls about dog fights. “These range from phone calls from owners with dogs with very mild injuries--one to two calls per week--to visits where dogs need wounds treated with us— probably a couple per month,” Fox said.

Some dogs are just not suited for dog parks, according to Fox. “Dogs that are aggressive or fearful of other dogs or other people should not go. A dog that has arthritis can turn aggressive if they think another dog hurt them. And if a dog has resource aggression and someone else brings a toy or treat, a fight can come out of seemingly nowhere.”

Most people assume dogs “like” the dog park, but some pets with anxiety might be happier left at home, according to Fox. “Forcing socialization on those dogs can be very stressful.” And if your dog has chronic disease or takes medications, check with your veterinarian before starting at the park.

Flat-faced dogs such as bulldogs and pugs should not go to the dog park when it’s hot and humid as they can overheat easily.

Brody is an Australian Labradoodle who literally begs to go to the dog park, according to his owner, Lloyd Dumke. After eating his breakfast, Brody goes to the back door of their Bellara home, ready to go to the dog park. Dumke suspects Brody likes the journey— riding in the front seat of the golf cart—as much as the destination. And once at the dog park, he likes to sit at the picnic table and socialize with the people more than running around with the other dogs.

Dan Patzner is a seasonal resident from the National. He brings, Ranger, his Irish Doodle, to the dog park twice a day. The dog gets excited and starts barking in the truck as soon as he sees where they’re going.

“Everyone has been friendly, the dogs are friendly, it’s a good way to meet people,” Patzner said. If he plays pickleball at The National, he said he only meets people from The National. “Here you meet everyone in the community.”

Patzner said it’s also cool to see the diversity of dog breeds that visit the dog park. On a recent afternoon in the large dog area, there was a number of poodle mixes, two Great Danes, a Burnese Mountain Dog, a German Pudelpointer (yes, it’s a legit hunting breed), an Irish Wolfhound, a Greyhound, an Irish Setter, hound mixes, a Collie and a Patterdale Terrier.

The owner of Gonzo, the Patterdale Terrier, Geoffrey Bartlett, said if he didn’t have a dog he’d be sitting at home or at a bar. “The dog park is a nice place to socialize. I have always loved dogs, my son has a dog sanctuary.” Gonzo is a well-known dog park visitor, getting Bartlett there at least twice a day. Although smaller in stature, Gonzo is as fast or faster than some of the bigger dogs.

Some studies have shown that people who bring their dogs to dog parks are happier than the general population. The Trust for Public Land has reported that dog parks are a rapidly growing segment of city park space. From 2009 to 2019, dog park numbers increased by 74 percent, according to their surveys. And COVID spurred many people to adopt dogs while dog parks enabled people to be outdoors and still meet with people during the pandemic.

Dog parks are built for dogs, but they are a fantastic resource for people, according to Diane Regas on the Trust for Public Land website. “Community is created there,” she said. “Having places to meet our neighbors can help us find common ground and encourages everyone to get outside.”

A second dog park exists in Ave Maria next to the Maple Ridge clubhouse but it is intended for Maple Ridge residents only.

Kim Twiss, Ave Maria Master Association executive director, said the South Park dog park is an Ave Maria residents-only amenity, but it shows up in Google searches. As a result, non-residents do visit the dog park.

“Joe and I are working on a system where the dog park will be electronically locked and only residents who have registered their dogs will be provided with key cards/fobs that will allow entry.” She said it should also cut down on aggressive dogs in the park.

“Dog owners are amazing people that should know their pets. Please make sure that your dog is 100 percent friendly to ALL dogs before using the Ave Maria dog park,” Twiss said. “Dog owners and their pets should feel safe when using the dog park and not worry that an aggressive dog could come through the gate.”

AVE MARIA DOG PARK RULES

• All dogs must have current vaccinations

• Dogs must wear a current Collier County License Tag

• A limit of three dogs per person is allowed

• Female dogs in heat are prohibited

• Dogs that have been declared dangerous or aggressive are prohibited from using the park

• Dog feces must be cleaned up by the dog owners and put into proper receptacle

• Dog owners must be in the fenced area with their dogs under visual contact and oral commands when not on a leash

• No dogs under the age of four months or who have not received their complete round of vaccinations are allowed

• Dog owners must immediately fill any hole their dogs dig

• Dogs must be leashed when entering and exiting the park

• Dog owners must have a leash on hand at all times

• Children 12 years and younger may accompany the family pet only if they are under direct adult supervision

• For use by Ave Maria residents only

To report issues, call 239-867-4322 or 800-870-0010

Contemplating trying your dog at the dog park?

Tips from Veterinarian Rob Fox, Faithful Friends Animal Hospital

• Ensure your dog is well-socialized and comfortable around other dogs and people.

• If not, work on socialization in smaller, more controlled environments, first.

• If you’re a little nervous, visit the park without your pet. See how it looks and plan your visit

• Do another visit with your pet, without letting them into the park off-leash. You can get a feel for just how stimulated your dog is.

• Inside the park, if you notice your dog’s behavior changing with another dog, it could be negative interactions are brewing. Take your dog home and return to the park another time.

• If your dog doesn’t do well with other dogs, but needs time to run off-leash, try to visit when the park is empty.

Ave Maria The annun

ciation

The Story Behind the Marble

WRITTEN BY CHAD BEATTY

PHOTO BY JORGE MOLINA, FLORIDA URBAN PHOTOGRAPHY

IIt’s probably the most photographed sight in Ave Maria…the massive facade of Ave Maria Catholic Church, specifically the Annunciation carving. But did you know…

The 54-ton sculpture of the Annunciation to the Blessed Virgin Mary is made from the same Italian Carrara marble that Michelangelo used in 1499 for La Pieta, a sculpture of the Virgin Mary holding her son, Jesus Christ at Mount Golgotha.

The Michelangelo sculpture represents the “Sixth Sorrow” of Mary’s grieving of Christ and the medium of choice for the artist was the whitish marble quarried in the mountains just outside the city of Carrara, the northernmost tip of modern-day Tuscany, Italy.

Just over 500 years later, another artist, Marton Varo, also chose Carrara marble, and also chose the Virgin Mary, for his breathtaking Ave Maria project. “I chose Carrara marble because it is the finest marble available and has been used from the time of emperor Augustus more than two thousand years ago. It is the choice of the greatest sculptors.” stated Varo.

Finishing the Annunciation relief mounted already on the Facade  of the church of Ave Maria

The artist's small-scale version is on display at Ave Maria Religious Gifts.

HOW IT ALL BEGAN

On March 25, 2004, on the Feast of the Annunciation, the first Mass was celebrated under a tent in Ave Maria. Shortly thereafter construction began on what would become the centerpiece of our town, Ave Maria Catholic Church. For the façade of the church, a competition was announced in which artists could submit their vision.

“My proposal for the Annunciation relief was selected, and the Windfeldt family sponsored the work.” Varo added “The design for the church suggested three areas on the facade for artwork: a large space above the doors and two surfaces on the side buttresses.”

A ‘relief’ in sculpting, pronounced rell-ee-eff, is any work in which the figures project from a supporting background, usually a flat surface. A relief will have 3 dimensional qualities, but not the full depth of the subject; it will be protruding from a flat surface.

Upon learning that he was chosen, Varo was overcome with emotion, but would the project live up to his expectations? The answer was an emphatic YES. Varo said that looking back, he “couldn’t have imagined what a great experience it turned out to become!”

What is The Annunciation?

Sixth month after the conception of St. John the Baptist, the angel Gabriel was sent from Heaven to a small town called Nazareth. He was to deliver a message from God to the Virgin Mary.

"Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with thee."

After hearing the greeting, Mary did not speak.

"Fear not, Mary, for thou hast found grace with God. Behold thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and shalt bring forth a son; and thou shalt call his name Jesus. He shall be great and shall be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of David his father; and he shall reign in the house of Jacob forever. And of his kingdom there shall be no end."

Her simple response of faith changed the course of humanity.

“Behold: I am the handmaid of the Lord, let it be done to me according to Thy Word.”

THE IMAGE

The Annunciation is one of several iconic Christian scenes within art history: the Annunciation, the Nativity, the Crucifixion, and the Lamentation of Christ.

“My work is based on the traditional symbols of the iconography.” Varo stated. “The Holy Spirit in the shape of the dove, the rays originating from the triangle are also a symbol on the top, breaking through the clouds.”

THE PROCESS

To choose the perfect block of marble, Varo worked directly with Franco Barattini, the owner of the Cave Michelangelo - Michelangelo’s quarry. “The selection of the marble is very important, so I started working in Carrara in 2008.” His choice was the largest marble block available at the time!

While in Carrara, Varo supervised work on the large block of marble, assuring each slice from the large block, 15 slabs in total, were the proper dimensions to be carved. (There are 15 panels in the Anunciation relief.)

Although Varo carved the up-to-scale marble ‘model’ in Carrara, he carved the bulk of his work in Ave Maria, where people could see him working. (The small-scale marble is still on display in the town center at Ave Maria Religious Gifts: 5080 Annunciation Circle.)

“I was given an apartment in Ave Maria, and I started working in a field close to the church. People could follow my work every day. I was very happy and excited, and I worked ten hours a day.” he said.

But summers in Ave Maria can be tough for outdoor work, and Varo needed a temporary change of venue. “When it was too hot and humid in Florida, and my angle grinders burned down from the heat and humidity, I carved the smaller panels in Carrara, close to the quarries.”

Photo by Meagan Watikins

Michelangelo purchased his marble 500 years ago from a quarry called Polvaccio situated in the mountain above Carrara.Today it is called Cave Michelangelo.

Photo: Looking for marble in Cave Michelangelo with Franco Barattini, owner of the Cave Michelangelo. June 26, 2009

Mounting the panels of the relief  to the facade of the church. January 7, 2011

October 13, 2009

THE TOOLS

While modern carving tools may differ from those of Michaelangelo, turning a block of marble into a work of art is still an unbelievable challenge for even the most talented artisan, requiring skill, beauty, patience and craftmanship.

“I use angle grinders with diamond discs and diamond tips for shaping the finer details,” Varo commented. “Of course, I work with traditional tools also, such as chisels, hammers and rasps. I carve my sculptures directly into the stone or marble; this way I can be in control of every phase of the work.”

When asked about the process of getting those huge slabs of stone up onto the façade of the church, Varo immediately began praising the engineering company, Curtainwall Design Consulting (CDC) out of Dallas, Texas. According to CDC senior consultant, Ken Bownds, “The main pieces were very heavy weighing in at 3 to 6 tons each.”

While the lifting of all the individual pieces was a challenge for the team, some of the heavier pieces had to be lifted offset using counterbalancing. “Since the sculpture was inset on the building there were crane cable issues at some of the elements, and as such, an extension counterbalancing rig was required.”

The lifting was done using straps attached to very deep anchor bolts. “The anchor bolting was tested in the Dallas lab to determine allowable lifting capacities,” Bowman added.

Of all the panels, the head piece was the largest weighing in at 6 tons, requiring both straps and bolts. “We extensively examined the upper edge to try and protect the fragile face during lifting since it was the most important element in the wall.”

For the engineering crowd among our readers, the stone panels were secured by conventional stainless steel welded T anchors into what is referred in the industry as a kerf (PDF Stone Anchor Detail). These kerfs were tested to resist hurricane force wind loads.

Working with the grinders in Carrara

THE UNVEILING

Three years after he began, Varo’s work was complete. A work of art worthy of the Sistine Chapel was greeting visitors in a new little town called Ave Maria, Florida!

“The unveiling was a special moment in my life, I had my family, friends, the whole town there,” Varo said with a smile, adding that he was “very happy and felt very appreciated.”

The unveiling took place on March 25, 2011. Why March 25?

In Christian tradition March 25 is the date of the Annunciation, when the Angel Gabriel visited the Virgin Mary. Coincidentally, March 25 is also the birth date of Tom Monaghan, the visionary founder of Ave Maria. (More on that in another edition!)

While it was Varo’s vision and hands that created the relief, Varo received support across the globe, from Carrara, to Ave Maria. “I worked with wonderful people in both places; quarrymen, fellow sculptors offering me a place to carve and equipment, the support from the people in Ave Maria encouraging me…I felt surrounded with good energy.”

You can view the unveiling online at: martonvaro.com/videos

A finished rendering of the church including the side panels.

Marton Varo

Born March 15, 1943 in Szekelyudvarhely, Transylvania, Hungary (now Romania), Marton Varo studied sculpture at Ion Andreescu Institute of Arts in Cluj, Romania from 1960 to 1966. In 1970, he moved to Debrecen, Hungary, where he completed several sculptures for public places and was awarded the Munkacsy Prize in 1984.

Receiving a Fulbright scholarship in 1988, Varo became affiliated with the University of California, Irvine, studying the relationship between architecture and sculpture. In 1990, he became the Artist in Residence for a public art project in the City of Brea, California.

Ever since, Varo has been working in an open-air studio at UC Irvine, California, carving his sculptures for public places throughout the US and abroad. Varo lives and works in California, spending summers working in Carrara, Italy.

THE NEXT CHAPTER?

While the church may look complete to the untrained eye, there are two spots awaiting the gifted hands of Varro. “I am happy to go back to Ave Maria and I still hope that some good donor comes forward to sponsor the completion of the facade of the church.”

The completion would include sculpted angels on the left and right buttress of the church. “That would be the complete Annunciation as it is traditionally done in paintings and sculptures. I have the smallscale marble relieves ready to be carved in real size.”

Will Marton Varo’s complete vision ever come to fruition? Will a generous sponsor step forward? Only God knows, but we can all send up prayers.

*If anyone is interested in sponsoring the side buttresses, please contact me and I will put you in touch with Marton Varo.

The artist's small-scale version of the side panels.

THE PATH

THE FIRST IN A SERIES describing what brought people to Ave Maria... and what keeps them here.

The DE LA ROSA FAMILY

WRITTEN BY MARY HARP-JIRSCHELE PHOTOS PROVIDED

YOU HEAR SO MUCH ABOUT THE POWER OF PRAYER... BUT WE SAW IT IN ACTION. IT WAS COMPLETELY OVERWHELMING."

It all began with a middle-of-the-night phone call every parent dreads: “There’s been an accident.”

Sam and Monica De La Rosa were startled awake on March 11, 2023. Their second son, Adrian (AJ), was involved in a car accident at a roundabout in Ave Maria. He was a back-seat passenger in a Tesla that hit two trees, injuring five young people inside. AJ was by far the worst off. “I knew immediately I couldn’t feel my legs,” he said. “My first thought was, ‘My life is over. No family. No kids. No sports for the rest of my life…everything is gone.’” But then, as he tells it, he immediately “found peace” with the situation.

“Something happened in those first 10 minutes,” AJ said. “I thank God that He comforted me. I was more worried about everyone else in the car. I believe onemillion percent that my faith saved me that night.” He even found his sense of humor when the first responders and medical people arrived on the scene and he asked whether they really had to cut up his favorite sweater to render aid. His parents just shake their head at that memory.

Faith not only got AJ through weeks and months of hospitalizations and rehab, but it got his parents and three brothers through, as well. “You hear so much about the power of prayer,” Sam said. “But we saw it in action. It was completely overwhelming. The people of Ave Maria and Ave Maria University showed us the power of prayer and its direct effect on lives – our lives. We were humbled and thankful. The weight on our shoulders was lighter because of the support.”

At the time of the accident, AJ was a sophomore at the university and kept telling us, ‘This place is very special.’ We truly didn’t understand that until the accident. The prayers started coming in from Ave Maria and they never stopped. Complete strangers came to visit. The President of the college was in contact all the time. They were angels sent from God.”

All of that led to the entire family taking a good, hard look at their lifestyle and priorities and asking God for help in determining the best course for their lives. By that time, AJ had returned to the university in a wheelchair with the assistance of his younger brother David, who had enrolled at AMU that year. The other two brothers were settled into their lives – Nigel into his job at Archbishop Coleman Carroll High School in Miami and teenager Ryan into his school studies. The answer to the De La Rosa’s deep-dive into “what’s next” came by way of a message from David and AJ, who were at the family’s Homestead home for the weekend.

“We were walking out of church and AJ and David were having a conversation. I asked them about it and they said, ‘We’re never coming back home. If you saw the town we live in – Ave Maria – if you saw the kids running around on bikes, saw the community, saw the church and faith in action, you would want to be there, too.’”

A close-knit family, Sam and Monica knew significant change was necessary if they wanted to see their children and future grandchildren grow up. “We made a decision when we were young parents,” Monica said, “to make our family a priority. We made a point of having dinner together. We said that money would never rule our lives. Time with our boys was more important.”

So, the family began to prayerfully ponder their future in Ave Maria. “We were driving home one day and began a self-evaluation of our lives,” Sam said. “Why wait until we’re 65 to start slowing down? Why not now? I’m young enough to find a good job to realize our priorities. First, let’s look at whether our house will sell, and that was a thumb’s up.” Not that it was easy leave behind – they had put in a pool, had a basketball court, lived in the country “where we drove around tractors on the way to work,” Sam said. It was an idyllic lifestyle for a family.

On top of that, Sam and Monica had important jobs and volunteer responsibilities that were hard to walk away from. Most notably, Sam went from a guy who knew nothing about soccer to coaching all of his sons, to getting on the Board of the American Youth Soccer Organization, to serving as commissioner. “For 10 years we had a home filled with boxes of soccer equipment. All of us were dedicated to making the all-volunteer league run,” he said.

But once the decision was made to make Ave Maria the center of life for the entire family, things moved quickly. They sold their Homestead house over one weekend, for more than the listing price, and found a three-bedroom coach house in The National to call their own with 16-year-old Ryan. David and AJ were already settled into a house in Maple Ridge. And eldest son Nigel left his campus ministry job at the high school to complete the reunion of the family in Ave Maria, joined by his bride, Frankie.

When exploring his next career move, Sam drew on the experience of his mother and his younger sister, who own a pool cleaning business in Big Pine Key. “I’m healthy, and my boys are healthy,” Sam said, “so we decided that pool cleaning is something we could do together. We know that Ave Maria is only halfway developed, so there’s room for us. We don’t want an empire. We want enough business in Ave Maria alone to make a living and still be able to have dinner with our families every night. We want to do things right the first time and grow the business slowly. We want to under-promise and over-deliver. We pride ourselves on being personalized – you will only see a De La Rosa working in your pool area. We can control the overhead because are a family business.”

Even the name of the pool cleaning company is faith-based. “We sat down and talked about it, and we wanted to share our faith, and we like the D’s –‘De La Rosa Divine Pools,’” Sam said. Thus, Divine Pools was established, with Sam, David and Nigel playing lead roles, and Ryan planning to join the team after high school.

In the meantime, AJ is intent on building his newly established LLC, Hometown Sports Club, which offers home-schooled kids and others from the community an opportunity to participate in afterschool sports. “For my whole life, PE was my favorite class, and there isn’t a lot for kids to do here, so I’m offering them some opportunities,” AJ said.

Oh, and that first thought AJ had about his “life being over” after the accident? Well, “By the grace of God,” as AJ puts it, he drives a car, has amazed all his doctors with the ability to walk with braces and a walker after being given virtually no hope of doing so, and he is getting married in July. “I always knew God had a plan,” he said.

The entire De La Rosa family is delighted to be working that plan in Ave Maria.

AAirboat Captain Kenny Rodgers grew up on Lake Trafford in Immokalee. The wild expanse of nature was his childhood playground. As a kid he even swam in the lake that’s home to countless alligators.

“We’d take a pontoon boat out in the middle of the lake and jump in.”

As an adult, he worked for a while as a County Sheriff’s Corrections Officer. But eventually Lake Trafford called him home. Today, he’s a fulltime licensed airboat Master Captain who takes visitors from around the world on tours to glimpse what he considers a bit of paradise.

Pointing out egrets, herons, a Roseate Spoonbill and multiple gators on a recent airboat tour of the lake, Kenny stopped the boat and its motor to listen to the fish jump, the birds call. The arrow root plants blow gently in the breeze.

“I grew up in Immokalee and on the lake. I thought everyone knew the birds and the wildlife in their area,” Rodgers said.

Kenny’s mother, Sharon Turrubiaters, has worked for Edward “Ski” Olesky, the owner of Airboats and Alligators for 31 years, raising five children along the way. As a child, Kenny hung out at the marina, stocked the coolers and helped his mom. In about 2013, he started doing airboat tours and in 2021 it became his fulltime job.

“I love being out on the water every day. I definitely didn’t do it for the pay but for the sanity,” he said. The father of two girls, he plans to pass down his appreciation for nature. No big amusement parks for them. He points out the various plants and what species are edible. If he runs across a plant he doesn’t know, he said he can easily research it on the internet.

“Hear that bird singing? That’s a White-eyed Vireo. You don’t see them often but you hear them.”

Rodgers keeps an eye on the vegetation which is basically a floating bog of plants. He said spotting alligators is similar to the Jurassic Park movie where you don’t see the T-Rex at first---just the movement of the grass. And sure enough, there’s movement in the plants. A large gator that had been emerging from its hiding place, sees us and slides slowly back into its murky hole under the plants. It definitely gives an ancient dinosaur vibe as it’s ridged, armored back disappears.

Airboats & Alligators

at a Glance

6001 Lake Trafford Road, Immokalee

Phone for Reservations: 239-657-2214

DIRECTIONS:

Go through Immokalee on 29, turn west on Lake Trafford Road, stay on it until you get to the lake and the marina. It’s about 20 minutes from Ave Maria.

INFO:

The business supplies ear protection and life preservers for all boat riders. If you have coast guard approved jackets for age six and under, it’s suggested you bring them to the tour. State law requires six and under to wear them for the tour.

All boat captains are U.S. Coastguard licensed, local and knowledgeable.

In more than 10 years of doing tours, Rodgers said he’s only had three trips where he didn’t see an alligator and that’s usually due to cold and wind. The alligators stay under the water.

Lake Trafford is considered part of the headwaters of the Everglades. It’s all fresh water so visitors see different wildlife than taking an airboat ride in the brackish water farther south. “People like to come here and they return because they see more wildlife, a lot more gators in the fresh water here,” Rodgers said.

People calling to reserve an airboat ride are likely going to speak with Rodgers’ mom. She’s the office manager now but has done whatever needed to be done over the years. “I raised all the kids here,” Turrubiaters said. “I love it, the people, the customers, the atmosphere and contributing to Immokalee. It’s our home.”

“This is what they call old Florida. It’s nothing fancy. Just home. This is where Ski lives. If you want to get next to nature this is the place to come,” she said. “You never know what you’re going to see.”

“Ski” or Olesky bought the marina in the 1970s and started the airboat tours in 1996, according to Rodgers. In his 80s now, he’s slowed down, but still helps out playing Santa at Christmas time for the local kids when he can, Rodgers said.

There are exotic birds and snakes on display at the marina for viewing while visitors wait for their airboat tour to start. A herpetologist takes care of the snakes and a couple

other locals take care of the birds. Snacks and beverages and fishing bait can be purchased in the store.

A family from Huntsville, Alabama, had just completed their tour and Turrubiaters handed out small souvenirs to the five children. “We loved it!” Sarah VanWagenen said. “The kids loved it. We got to see a lot of different wildlife. It was very cool.”

Rodgers said the business runs three airboats out of the marina. They follow trails through the swamp and lake vegetation. “After storms we may have to clean up trees that came down. When we have a drought, the vegetation can grow on our trails and we go open them up.” He says there have been times he’s had to jump in the muck to get a boat unstuck. He doesn’t fear the gators, maintaining there are more shark attacks in Florida than gator attacks.

In addition to being able to ride an airboat on the water every day, Rodgers said he enjoys meeting people from around the world. “People come from everywhere. I love to see their reaction. People are in awe of how beautiful it is. People really enjoy it and they come back many times.”

As the airboat glides over the water, Rodgers thinks he knows where there may be some baby alligators. He finds them, although they are hiding pretty well in the plants. He points to a gator path in the mud across the airboat trail. He thinks that’s probably where the mother of the baby alligators is hanging out watching us. Alligator moms are protective.

“Just watch for the grass to move.”

Mango Madness

WRITTEN BY HELEN MIDNEY, MUSEUM MANAGERIMMOKALEE PIONEER MUSEUM AT ROBERTS RANCH MUSEUM PHOTOS PROVIDED

MMango season is fast approaching, and for the mango enthusiasts out there, this year’s crop may come early. Mangoes have been an important fruit to South Florida growers since the early 1900’s, and were introduced to our state in the early 1800’s.

Mango, Mangifera indica, originated in India and southeast Asia, before being spread across the globe, with several varieties like the Kent, Haden, Van Dyke and Tommie Atkin being developed here in Florida. The first mango variety that was cultivated in Florida is what many old timers call the Turpentine, a smaller, sweet and fibrous variety that still serves as a popular juicing mango.

Dr. David Fairchild, a noted botanist and plant explorer, brought the first grafted Indian variety to South Florida in 1889. Prior to this, mangos were planted and grown from seed in our area, limiting the varieties Americans could experience. Today, home producers can find dozens of cultivars to choose from of the hundreds of varieties worldwide.

The International Mango Festival at Fairchild Botanical Garden, Tasting the Tropics at Naples Botanical Garden, and the annual Summer Mango Fest at the Immokalee Pioneer Museum are just some of the events mango fans can partake in locally.

The smell of mango blossoms is often one of our first indicators that summer is on the way, with trees fruiting between May and September. At the Immokalee Pioneer Museum, we have 5 different varieties of Mango, as well as other tropical fruits like avocado, longan, lychee, caimito, ciruela, and guava. In years past, our approximately seven trees have provided over 1,700 pounds of fresh fruit in June and July.

“1,700 POUNDS of FRESH FRUIT in June and July”

Fun FACTS

THE WORD "MANGO" comes from the Tamil word mankay or the Keralan word mangga. Portuguese traders in Southern India adopted the name "manga."

THE PAISLEY PATTERN, developed in India, is based on the shape of a mango.

Visitors to the museum during this time are often cajoled into taking as many as they can carry. The remaining mangoes are harvested and given to local food pantries so that the bountiful crops do not go to waste. Recent weather pattern shifts have begun causing our mangoes to start blossoming several weeks earlier than historic trends. Instead of having our heaviest harvest at the end of June, we may be fortunate enough to get the bulk of our crop in late May or early June.

South Florida contributes enough mangoes to make the state the largest domestic producer in the country. Other states that contribute to domestic production include California, Hawaii and Puerto Rico, but frost can damage or kill mango trees, limiting where they can be grown. The majority of US mango imports come from Mexico and other countries in southeast Asia.  Internationally, more than 50 million tons are produced annually, and domestic production is only expected to increase.

If you have never tried a mango, this could be your lucky season to try ones such as the Carrie, Nam Doc Mai, Coconut Cream, or Rosigold. If you love mangos, come on out to our June Mango Day at the Immokalee Pioneer Museum to try some Kents and Madame Francis or Mallika mangoes.

VETERANS’ MEMORIAL

From the very birth of our nation, it has been our custom to commemorate those who have fallen in battle. Those who gave their lives for our freedom are the best of us, and their sacrifice should never be forgotten.

None mourn the loss of these warriors more than their families, but for those who have served, it is a different sense of loss. When a soldier falls in battle, those that survive face a sense of loss more significant than we will ever understand.

It is for that reason veterans throughout our nation fight to ensure there is a place where their brothers-in-

arms can be remembered. A place of solace, reflection, and remembrance. We know them as memorials and, thankfully, most towns have them.

Due to the dedication of some of our local veterans, Ave Maria is no exception.

The Ave Maria Veterans Association was founded in 2018 with an objective to ‘promote patriotism, awareness, and interest in Veterans Affairs and to participate in community and civic activities.’ To that end, the group was solely responsible for the creation of our incredible memorial on Ave Maria Blvd.

But the mission to have it built began much earlier…

WRITTEN BY PAUL FORTE

PHOTOS BY RANDALL PERRY PHOTOGRAPHY

Tom Schlessinger moved to Ave Maria in 2015.

Once settled, Tom began traveling with other vets to the closest VFW in Naples. After making the trip for quite some time, the group saw the need for something more local, as Tom explains.

“There were a group of us, John Bestul, John Stewart, Joe Rivera Jr. and Raymond Harley. The closest VFW is in Golden Gate, and what we found was that there were a lot of veterans retiring here, in Ave. We just thought that we should have something local. So, at the beginning of 2018, we founded the Ave Maria Veterans Association.”

With the creation of the Veterans Association, one of the biggest areas of discussion within the group was their focus on the community. With that in mind, Tom explains how the idea for the Veterans memorial came to fruition. “One of our members, Randy Tryan, owned a business that sold flag poles. He approached us and said, ‘would the veterans want to install the flag poles, you could make a little money.’ I was just getting ready to retire, so the prospect of doing that seemed perfect.”

This was the birth of the ‘Buy a flagpole for a Vet’ program, which played its part in the building of the memorial. “So, at the time, at any event, we would set up a booth. The first one that we attended was the annual garage sale in North Park. I took a flagpole there and we attached it to a canopy and the gentleman right next to us, who happened to be Michael Schwartz, of Ave Maria Mutual Funds, walked over and asked who we were.

“I explained that we were a Veterans group, and I handed him a brochure for the program. He told me that they were a supporter of vets, and then he reached into his pocket and handed us five hundred dollars. I thanked him and told him that we were thinking about using the money raised to build a memorial in Ave. He told me that he was very interested in that and asked me to come see him later.”

That chance meeting with Mr. Schwartz later landed the association with their first sizeable donation, $25,000. That donation was coupled with an identical $25,000 donation from The William and Patricia Lamothe Foundation.

Toward the end of 2021 Tom decided that a model of the planned memorial might help to raise more money. “My father-in-law is kind of an artist and over the space of a couple of weekends we came up with a 2x2 model, with the flag poles and the wall on it. Then, going forward, when we were at the Farmer’s Market, or any other event, we would have that out there. People began donating more and we were starting to get a little momentum.”

Despite having money steadily coming in, there was still a dilemma. Where were they going to put the memorial? They had no land to use and no idea how to get some. Tom decided to go to a meeting of the Master Association Board.

“I pitched the idea to the board and they told me that they were very interested and asked me what I thought it was going to cost, so I said, about $85,000. They asked me how much I had raised, and I told them $40,000. Then they told me to come back when I had raised the $85,000.”

So now, the veterans had a goal, though they were not even at the halfway point.

Unperturbed, they continued to fundraise and sell flag poles until they eventually reached the $85,000 goal. At that point Tom went back to the board and announced that they had raised the money and were ready to have the memorial constructed.

"ALL GAVE SOME, SOME GAVE ALL. "

This led to a search group going around town looking for a prospective site. The group consisted of Tom, John Bestul, and David Genson, president of Development for Barron Collier. Tom remembers seeing the site for the first time.

“We came across this area, right on Ave Maria Blvd, by the lake, and I thought, ‘this is perfect. ‘They said how much land do you need and I said ‘nothing too big.’ We had started out thinking it was going to be around 40’X40’ and it is actually 60’X60’. They gave us a ninety-nine-year lease for a dollar, obviously stipulating that we maintain it.”

And so, with a lot of help and a great deal of determination, the dream had become a reality…almost. “In April of 2023, we broke ground and quickly found out that it was going to cost more than $85,000. Since I was the guy that was project managing the whole thing, I went out and started getting quotes.” To Tom’s pleasure, the community of Ave Maria once again rallied around its veterans.

“We found a contractor in Ave Maria, Carlos Cardona of Infinity Constructions, and he gave us a quote, which was a good price, and he also volunteered to donate all the lighting for it.

Then I looked at the price of the pavers. I found a company, Tri-Circle Pavers, out of Fort Myers, that had the size needed. I called them up and spoke with Patrick Conley. When I explained that it was for a memorial in Ave Maria, he offered to donate them.

“Roger Echols of Davey Tree offered to do all the landscaping, and irrigation, which they did for free. Then, I needed some sod, so I went to Collier Family Farms, here at the entrance to Ave Maria. I got the owner, Stephen Massie’s contact information. He told me that since it was for a Veterans memorial, he would donate it. He donated over $20,000 worth of sod. Finaly, LaWayne Cheney, of Cheney landscaping donated his people’s time to install the pavers.”

The donations were rolling in and the finish line was within site, but an unexpected donation would add the final touch to an already awe-inspiring monument: The silhouette of the kneeling soldier.

“We were installing a flag for a gentleman in Del Webb by the name of Marc Moreau. He lives here in the winter and in summer he lives up in Canada. He is pretty proud of the fact that he lives in the U.S. and so, he bought a flagpole from the group. When our president, John Bestul was installing the flagpole, Mark mentioned that he owned a metal company and that he had donated a metalwork silhouette of a WWI soldier to a memorial there in Canada. He told John ‘If you want, I’ll do a silhouette for yours.’

The group put their heads together and came up with the design; a soldier in a modern-day combat uniform, to represent the veterans that served in Vietnam, the Gulf War, Iraqi Freedom, Afghanistan etc.

“Marc had his company donate the steel, cut out the silhouette and had it galvanized. When he was coming down, he got a trailer and towed it all the way from Canada."

With the site now complete, they moved into the final phase. The dedication. Something that Tom describes as overwhelming.

"There were a lot of people that helped during the building and touching up of the memorial, including Eric Wurzburg, Isaac Hernandez, Anderson Richardson and Lloyd Dumke. Together we spent many weekends painting, cleaning and getting the Memorial ready. Without their help, I doubt we would have been ready on time.

“We finished the memorial three days before the dedication on Veterans Day, November 11th 2023. I expected that there might be fifty to a hundred people, so I was blown away by how many people were there. But then, I remembered that the town had always been supportive." What began as an idea, turned into a movement, and ended as a landmark. Veterans, family members, residents and visitors now have a place to honor those who fought and died for our freedom.

VETERANS’ VOICES

JAIRO RESTREPO

PRESIDENT OF AVE MARIA VETERANS ASSOCIATION:

“The Ave Maria Veterans Memorial is a sacred tribute and landmark to the brave men and women who have served our nation with honor, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication. To me, it stands as a powerful symbol of freedom, resilience, and the unbreakable bond of brotherhood that unites all who have worn the uniform. It is a place of reflection, gratitude, and remembrance—a reminder that the cost of liberty is never free and that we, as Americans, must always honor and uphold the values for which our heroes fought. God, country, and the enduring spirit of those who served—this memorial embodies it all.”

ERIC WURZBURG

PAST SERGEANT AT ARMS OF AVE MARIA VETERANS ASSOCIATION:

“Our memorial is the culmination of a lot of people all coming together for a common cause. Veterans and local citizens alike. To me, it is a quiet place to gather and reminisce with other vets about good and bad memories. The memorial is now a part of Ave for everyone.”

JOHN BESTUL

VICE-PRESIDENT OF AVE MARIA VETERANS ASSOCIATION:

“When I started gathering names of veterans interested in organizing in 2017 I hoped for two things. First that we could provide service to the community. Secondly that we would have an opportunity to honor those that served our country. I think the monument does both. It provides the community a place to gather for community events as well as a place for quiet reflection. It also allows for a place to honor our veterans both individually through pavers and collectively through the site itself. It stands as a visual reminder of the sacrifices both the veterans and their families have made.”

Photo left to right: Jairo Restrepo, Tom Schlessinger, John Bestul, Isaac Hernandez. Photo by Yvvette Forte

FOLLOW US AS WE EXPLORE SOME OF THE AREA'S UNIQUE SPACES H G &

ARCHITECTURALLY Speaking

WRITTEN BY MEGIN POTTER

PHOTOS COURTESY OF NICOLE RICCA

Making a Grand Entrance

SHOW-STOPPING RENOVATIONS IN A MAPLE RIDGE HOME.

In a community where dozens of homes look alike, Nicole Ricca makes hers stand out with crush-worthy curb appeal and elemental designs on a grand scale.

WHAT A WALKWAY!

When Nicole Ricca and Winston Thomas purchased their 4,500sq.ft. home and threebay garage in 2019, they loved how affordable and spacious it was, but knew even this custom 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath home needed more character. During the pandemic, Nicole, a photo prop designer, turned her attention to crafting a unique home for her family.

To elevate the home’s landscaping, she removed the standard assortment of plants that builder CC Homes installed, drew out a design for the new walkway, and shopped for plants from local nurseries. Tons of different colors of rocks were laid out in a wave pattern along the multi-colored herringbone brick path. Along with the new plantings, this design adds color, height, and a sense of movement as you walk toward the house and that fabulous front entry!

STATELY SOPHISTICATION

Although no two homes are exactly alike, theirs is the only one in the community with an eyebrow arch, said Nicole, so she wanted to emphasize that architectural feature. To direct the eye, and create a great first impression (day or night) they installed almost two dozen solar lights into the flowing landscape design.

Even with the lights’ starburst shine, the one-of-a-kind arched glass doors add the real ‘WOW!’ factor. After the doors’ extended design phase, there were significant fabrication delays. Anticipation built for a year, until the massive, 129” double doors were finally delivered. During installation, it was discovered that they were a couple of inches too large. A whole new lentil was constructed to ensure the stability of the structure wasn’t compromised.

FASHIONING A FANTASTIC FOYER

Expanding the door’s presence lets in loads of natural light, allowing Nicole to welcome dark texture to the entranceway. Vertical plywood slats and black grass cloth pack a lot of punch on the wall adorned with a pair of daring crystal sconces.

Bringing the outdoors in – in an unexpected way – faux foliage dangles from the 12’ ceiling. Gathered from a market in Dubai, these vibrant green strands are threaded through chicken wire around the egg-shaped crystal chandelier.

To add even more lush depth and dimension to the space, a giant 6’ x 10’ moss wall that Nicole crafted to resemble an aerial view, appeals to the eye. Retaining its rich color is almost effortless, she added, because it isn’t facing direct sunlight.

INVITING INTENSITY

To give their home a truly polished look, with the help of professional craftsmen, Nicole has added a double window bench and bump-out venetian plaster entertainment area, featuring a fun 3-D fireplace.

On an adjacent wall, a wave, that she assembled from hundreds of small wooden blocks, beckons.

GOODNESS WITH GRACE

Adding to the great room’s impact, a set of three 5’x 7’ mirrored panels reflect the window’s view of the outdoors and invite in an elegant sense of openness. Overhead, faux beams constructed from 14’ planks anchor the space.

SEW CREATIVE

It’s all about organization in Nicole’s studio. In 2011, she founded Willow Mint Props, and this space is where she puts her experience as a model to use, filming videos featuring projects and makeover adventures for her YouTube channel @WillowMint.

This room is filled with natural light and formed to function well. Behind her custom workbench is the biggest cubby shelving system she could find, which she uses to store the many different fabrics and sewing accessories that bring the inventive outfits she makes for newborn and baby photo shoots to life.

A COOL MAN CAVE

In the family’s former home, there were always so many people coming in and out of Winston’s studio, that it felt like a revolving door, said Nicole. To give Winston, a grammy-winning music producer and DJ, the space that he needed, they converted the third bay of the garage into his new recording studio. Outfitted with equipment, soundproofing, and architectural elements that add to its acoustic value, there is a small glass room here to record vocals and a seating area in what Winston calls his ‘man cave’. The most defining feature of this space? The awards, records, and memorabilia on its walls. “It’s pretty cool,” said Winston.

STAGING Your HOME

WRITTEN BY SHARON LEVESQUE, REALTOR

Selling a home can be a daunting task, but factors like available inventory can impact how quickly a home sells. Floridarealtymarketplace.com reports, “Inventory has been a defining factor in Florida’s real estate market, and 2025 is expected to continue this trend. According to data, Florida’s housing inventory increased by 40.1% in mid2024, giving buyers more options than they had in previous years.” With so many homes on the market, how can a seller make their home stand out making a positive first impression to potential buyers? One way is home staging.

In a discussion with Robb & Stucky (Naples) Interior Design expert Valerie Barbosa, about staging she shared, "Consider staging your home as an investment because you'll get it back in the long run. How much you invest depends on your budget and the price point of your home. Realize you are competing with dozens of other homes on the market so ask yourself, how can I make my home stand out? What's special about my home?" Valerie offered the following suggestions for staging your home if you're thinking about selling.

Evaluate the exterior of your home. Consider freshening up by removing bugs and cobwebs, adding a fresh welcome mat at the front door. Power wash the driveway and exterior as needed and add fresh mulch in the landscape beds. Use flowers such as begonias or impatiens with something trailing and variegated to add a pop of color. Clean outdoor furniture or consider replacing tired pieces. Even if it's inexpensive you want it to look fresh and stylish. Simple ideas include changing out pillows or seat cushions. A place setting with pitcher and drink glasses on a table in the lanai can help people imagine themselves living there.

Valerie encourages sellers to create an inviting welcome. Consider hiring a cleaning service to do a deep cleaning of the home. Cleaning grout and baseboards adds a sense of freshness to the house as well as touching up paint over scuff marks. Clear away all clutter and shoes. Remove or replace dated or damaged furnishings such as art, consoles, benches, and occasional furnishings such as end tables and area rugs. Replacements don't have to be expensive if it's not in the budget; just clean, fresh, and updated. Fluff and turn sofa seat cushions and add new toss pillows that complement the overall aesthetic of the home.

In the kitchen, bedrooms and bathrooms, clearing clutter off counters is a must. Replace faucets that may be old or tarnished. Re-caulk where needed using clear silicone. Polish and clean stainless-steel appliances. Valerie recommends checking with the manufacturer of your appliances for their suggested cleaning products and procedures. Setting the table, and if necessary, buying a new set of dishes can help buyers envision themselves eating there or entertaining guests. Make sure to replace any worn out or tired bedding and consider adding tasteful accessories to soften and beautify the space. Be sure to remove any bathroom or toilet mats.

The internet offers a wide range of other things to consider when staging your home for sale such as depersonalizing the space so people can see the space as their own. Being attentive to smells and especially getting rid of any pet odors, the home should be a place that pleases all the senses.

Valerie concludes, “The ultimate goal of staging is to help buyers imagine themselves in the home. Builders are masters at it, which is why they hire staging design teams and go to such lengths to decorate their models. They understand the value, so if they can do it why not you, too? Visit model homes near you to find inspiration and adapt ideas for your own home that are within your budget."

Cooking Chef Trevor WITH

TREVOR J. GANZI, PRIVATE CHEF

"In The Comfort Of Your Home" • Capeesh Italian Street Food (Food Truck)

Filet Mignon with Charred Truffled Broccolini

directions

When it comes to steak, I always lean to classic French cooking techniques. Sure, grilling steak is fun and if you are a grill master by all means keep doing what you're doing, but try this just once. My good friend and Chef Craig Balsam showed me the brilliance of char and truffle oil and I can't wait to share this simple recipe with you. When you are on the east coast go check him out at Lemongrass in Boca Raton, FL.

Grab a cast iron or a stainless-steel pan and get it piping hot so that you start seeing smoke. Hotter the pan, better the sear. You can season the filet with good kosher salt and pepper the day before for a tad more flavor, but get the filet to room temp before searing. Extra virgin olive in the pan, filet down for 2-3 minutes until you get that nice char of a crust... This is a fast process so have all aromatics ready to go. Flip the filet after 2-3 minutes and in goes, thyme, rosemary, garlic gloves, and sliced shallots. Add half a stick of butter and lean pan towards you and with a spoon base the steak with the butter... This isn't cooking with butter; this is all just for flavor.

After another 2-3 minutes of high heat cooking, this process depending on the size of the filet should come out a perfect medium rare. For more cooked steak add a minute for more medium to medium well. Let steak rest on a sheet tray or cutting board the same amount of time cooking for all the juices to hold up perfectly. I like to add cippolini onions and sauté till brown in the pan with all the juices of the steak to accompany the steak.

For the broccolini season with salt, pepper, garlic salt, and truffle oil. This one is easy, set on high broil and essentially burns the broccolini. Keep an eye on it since all broilers work differently. Once you start getting a good char, pull the tray out and add panko bread crumbs and put back in to get breadcrumbs slightly browned. Finish with more truffle oil and you are done.

ingredients

STEAK:

• 8 oz filet (beef tenderloin)

• Extra Virgin Olive oil for cooking

• 5 cloves garlic

• 1 shallot sliced

• 1/2 stick of unsalted butter

• 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary

• 10 sprigs of fresh thyme

• Salt & Pepper for seasoning

• 2-4 Cippolini onion (optional)

BROCCOLINI:

• 6-8 broccolini

• Truffle Oil (good quality)

• Garlic Salt

• Salt & Pepper for seasoning

• Panko breadcrumbs

Bon Appétit

FROM DINGED & DUSTY TO BRIGHT & BOLD

WRITTEN BY CHAD BEATTY PHOTOS PROVIDED

Each year I set aside funds for one or two larger home improvement projects. Over the past two decades my projects have ranged from regular maintenance such as roof repairs or drainage issues, to fun ‘quality of life’ projects, such as a new deck, or sauna. My most recent project seems to encompass both of those areas…maintenance AND fun.

The idea for the project began with a discussion with my wife about our garage. Like many garages, it was always a second thought. We were constantly trekking in dust from the dirty concrete floor, and neither of us really liked the look or feel. Additionally, the floor never seemed quite level and there were little chips in the concrete.

We both envisioned a more ‘finished’ garage; one we would enjoy heading into for small projects or a quick workout. We just weren’t quite sure where to begin.

Keeping in mind my limited budget I began to explore options.

One of my calls led me to Epoxy Floors N’ More out of Ft. Myers. I spoke directly with the owner, Tim Gonzalez. When I told Tim we were in Ave Maria, he opened up about his Catholic faith. “It’s become a way for us to live out the principle of “ora et labora,” prayer and work, integrating our faith into our daily labor.”

Tim proceeded to walk me through the process of an epoxy floor, answering all my questions, and two days later his estimator was at our door.

EPOXY FLOORS N’ MORE Indoor and Outdoor Options

The estimator, Mickey, reiterated everything conveyed by the owner and answered a handful of additional questions we had. Some of the topics we discussed were:

• What was our goal, such as Purpose and Longevity.

• Safety and Compliance: Do we need slip resistance, etc…

• Surface preparation: They employ grinding or shot blasting, followed by meticulous cleaning with high-powered vacuums.

During our meeting we got sidetracked on several topics such as faith, family, fitness, and work values. Mickey was just as personal, and just as professional as the owner.

Excited about the upgrade, and confident in the company, we signed the contract, and their crew arrived two weeks later.

We chose the bright blue flake for our pattern. We could have gone more subdued, but I wanted the garage floor to POP. The whole process was fascinating to watch; from the concrete sanding, to the tossing of the flakes, to the final hard sealcoat.

After 57 years on this planet, I find it very rare that a company can maintain a high level of professionalism from top to bottom; usually one employee is great, one is good, and one is just getting a paycheck. But I am happy to say that Epoxy Floors N’ More was professional from beginning to end. We now have a beautifully finished garage floor that I love, and my wife has a home workout area that she loves. How happy am I? I will regularly open the garage door just to look at the floor!

Bright Blue Flake Pattern

"We jumped into the coatings business without even knowing what epoxy was—we just saw a great opportunity and went for it. Once we got started, we quickly realized it was like the Wild West out there, with lots of folks doing things a certain way without really knowing why. Being up for a challenge (and maybe a bit stubborn), we were determined not to fail. So, we dove in headfirst, learning everything we could about the coatings industry. After years of hard work and some pricey lessons, we’ve grown into one of the most knowledgeable and experienced coating companies in Florida.

While you might see us advertising garage floors, our work goes way beyond that. We’ve been part of some high-profile projects across the state, including Universal Studios, Busch Gardens, Hard Rock, Naples Airport, various local restaurant chains, and numerous municipal and government projects from Central to Southeast Florida, all while keeping our roots firmly planted in Southwest Florida, where we prefer to stay.

As a Catholic-owned company, this journey has really helped us see the value in our work. We’re guided by Colossians 3:23: Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men. This means we always give our best, whether someone’s watching or not, because for us, it’s not just about supporting our families; it’s about fulfilling a higher purpose through our work. We’re especially excited to work in Ave Maria. Being part of projects in a town that shares our values is truly special to us. It feels like a natural extension of our mission, and we’re honored to contribute to such a meaningful place."

2 MINUTES WITH TIM GONZALEZ

3

Attention Snowbirds…

Key Steps to Keep Your Home Safe and Well-Maintained

While You’re Away

1SERVICE YOUR AC BI-ANNUALLY

Schedule professional air conditioner maintenance at least twice a year. Failing to clean the system can lead to a buildup of Aspergillus fungus, which often causes condensate lines to clog and fail. Regular cleaning keeps your AC running efficiently, prevents costly breakdowns, and improves indoor air quality. For preventive maintenance, tablets are available at your local hardware store to maintain the system between professional services.

2

HAVE A HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS PLAN

A failure to plan is a plan to fail. If you’re away for the season, make sure you have a solid hurricane preparedness plan in place, including arrangements for hurricane shutter installation. Familiarize yourself with the process, and even try setting up a few panels yourself well advance. This proactive approach can save valuable time, and money, and help you avoid last-minute stress when a storm is approaching.

3

HIRE A REPUTABLE HOME WATCH SERVICE

Many insurance policies require regular check-ups on unoccupied homes. A professional home watch service ensures that your property is regularly monitored. Discovering one problem often indicates the possibility of another, so having a service that can spot issues early—like leaks, power outages, or other unexpected problems, helps prevent escalation. By addressing these issues promptly, you avoid costly repairs down the road and ensure peace of mind while you're away.

Bonus Tip:

If you're a Collier County resident planning to be away temporarily, you can sign up for the free service that offers property checks by a CCSO member while you're gone. Please keep in mind that this service is limited to perimeter patrols and should not be considered a replacement for a comprehensive home watch service.

Tim Obrien is the owner of Patron Home Property Services, as well as the Catholic business group, Ora Et Labora.

HELPFUL GOLF CART MAINTENANCE TIPS

WRITTEN BY CALEB POLHILL, OWNER OF AACTION POWER EQUIPMENT AND PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTER

As a professional firefighter, I know firsthand how essential routine maintenance is for our equipment. The same goes for your golf cart. In the fire service, we have daily, weekly, and monthly checklists to ensure our equipment and tools run optimally when needed. In this article, I will highlight some essential details in maintaining your golf cart so that it won’t let you down when needed. There are two main types of golf carts, gasoline and electric. They come in many different shapes and sizes, from two-seaters up to eight seats. There is almost no end to the customization you can do to them. Electric golf carts are quieter and take less maintenance than their gasoline counterparts. Gasoline golf carts work much like your car does. They have a small combustion engine that makes the cart move. This article will dive into electric golf carts and leave the gas for another time.

UNIVERSAL GUIDELINES

Make a plan! If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. I recommend writing everything down. Nowadays, smartphones have replaced your monthly planner, and having your entire golf cart checklist at your fingertips is easy.

A daily checklist should include inspecting your tires and brakes. Take a moment to walk around your golf cart and ensure all tires have the proper air. At the same time, inspect the lights and make sure all lights are working correctly. In today's communities, golf carts share the road with larger and heavier vehicles, so proper lighting is essential for safe travel.

Thorough weekly checks should be done on the same day every week. This weekly inspection should include checking the battery and terminals for rust. Rust is a big deal on all golf carts in Florida, especially on the frame. Over time, rust will break down the stability of your golf cart’s structure. Rust on the frame or bolts should be thoroughly cleaned with a wire brush. Weekly lubrication of all moving parts with a lubricant such as WD-40 should also be done.

Electric golf carts predominantly come with two types of electric power sources. Lithium-ion batteries and deep cycle lead acid batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are used in your

• Charge the battery after each extended use. The batteries are made to be used and charged after each outing. Recharging is not needed in some cases, such as a short trip around the block; however, if you fail to charge your batteries correctly, you will have used up your battery's life the next time you head out for a trip.

• All lead-acid batteries have access ports for distilled water. Remove the port covers and inspect the lead cells. Ensure they are covered entirely, and when replacing the caps ensure they are tight and secure to prevent leaking.

• Charge lead acid batteries in a well-ventilated area to avoid the potential buildup of hazardous gases.

cell phones and electric cars. Lead acid batteries are used in gasoline vehicles. While both enable you to start the golf cart, the difference between them is night and day. Two significant differences are the weight and the way they are maintained. Lithium batteries are much lighter than lead acid batteries and do not require maintenance, whereas lead acid batteries require weekly maintenance. Your maintenance checklist will be specific to your golf cart brand, but some universal guidelines exist, especially regarding the battery. Batteries are the most critical component of your golf cart and generally the most expensive part to replace, so proper inspection and maintenance are crucial in saving you time and money. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and specific recommendations for charging time and frequency to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your battery.

• Check the charger connections in both lead-acid and lithiumion batteries. Unsecured connections or corrosion on battery terminals hinder the flow of electricity, resulting in either poor charging or excess heat, which can be a fire hazard.

• Always use a charger designed for your cart's make, model, and year. This is extremely important for safety and performance.

• Avoid storing your cart outside at all costs. While most carts are designed to withstand occasional inclement weather, continued exposure to Florida’s harsh sun and rain will eventually lead to problems.

The old saying, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” could not be more accurate. If you take the time to inspect your golf cart regularly, you will prolong the life and enjoyment of your investment for years to come.

FEET DOWN 60

WRITTEN BY CHAD BEATTY | PHOTOS BY DAN HEARY UNLESS NOTED

Ilooked to my left. About an arm’s length away was my dive buddy. The silence was deafening. Just the ongoing inhalation and exhalation of my regulator: chshhh blub blub blub; chshhh blub blub blub; chshhh blub blub blub.

It was a sunny mid-August day, but just like in real estate, location is everything! At the time we were still living in upstate NY, and on this day we were deep in Lake George. At 60 ft. down the water was shockingly cold. At approximately 30 ft. we descended through our first thermocline, and the second thermocline around 50+ feet. A thermocline is a boundary of water which separates regions of warmer water above, from the colder water below. Quite often you can actually see the different texture of the water at the thermocline. When you stick your hand through that point, you immediately feel the drop in temperate. Despite being covered in wetsuits from head to toe, the bite of the water heightened our senses. Even on a hot summer’s day, Scuba diving in Lake George shouldn’t be taken lightly.

One of the instructors approached me and my partner and flashed a hand signal. He wanted to know our air pressure. We both checked our gauges, flashed back the appropriate hand gestures and received the ‘OK’ sign.

Approximately 5-10 feet ahead of us were the other two students who made it to day 2 of the Open Water Scuba Certification. Up to this point our dive had gone smoothly: safety checks, mask recovery, gauge checks, buddy drills, etc. But then it happened. One of the 2 divers ahead of us lost buoyancy and sunk to the bottom. “Don’t kick your fin… don’t kick your fin!” I thought to myself. The instructors had been very clear: if you lose buoyancy and hit the bottom, gradually gain buoyancy through a number of pre-rehearsed techniques… but no matter what you do, don’t give a hard kick to ascend. (The bottom of Lake George is covered in fine black silt)

Well, diver ‘X’ kicked hard, producing a mushroom cloud. The cloud quickly engulfed us, and everything went black. And I’m not talking cloudy grey, I am talking black… pitch black… like the dead of night in the vacuum of space, in a galaxy far, far away, black. I couldn’t see the divers in front of us. I couldn’t see the instructors. I couldn’t see my dive buddy to my left. I couldn’t see my arm!

We were ensconced deep in a frigid cloud of suspended silt.

I instinctively reached out to my left and found the hand of my dive buddy – who was my 15-year-old son. I locked onto him, calmed my breathing, and thought “maybe humans aren’t meant to be down here.”

So how did we get to the bottom of lake George in a silt blackout?

I suppose it began on vacation the year prior. My son and I have always been avid snorkelers. We love being in the water, swimming among the reefs and aquatic life. Whether in Aruba, Bonaire or the Florida Keys, chances are you will find us in the water. Unfortunately, we have always been limited to the top 10 feet. So, we made a pact and I began researching.

I was pleasantly surprised to find a 5-star SDI (Scuba Divers International) dive center located right in Saratoga Springs. Unlike Southwest Florida, SCUBA schools aren’t that easy to come by in the Adirondack Mountains! I dialed up their number and 1 month later we walked into the Adirondack Scuba to begin our training.

Our class was the ‘Open Water Scuba Diver’ course, which certified us to dive to a depth of 60 ft. The course consists of academic study, in-water skill development training (in a pool), and finally open water training dives in Lake George.

Throughout the course, several things stood out to me. First, it is much more technical than I imagined. There are countless things that can go wrong underwater, and having the acquired skills is imperative for survival. If you are 40 feet down and your partner signals he is out of air, or another diver knocks your mask off by mistake, you better know what to do.

I was also amazed at the amount of science that goes into Scuba diving. Did you know that:

• Once you get below 10 meters depth, you can’t see red or yellow! If you cut yourself your blood looks blue.

• Sound travels five times faster underwater than in air, which makes it almost impossible to establish where sound is coming from.

• Oxygen becomes toxic when under pressure.

• Divers are taught to equalize by pinching their nose and blowing gently, which forces the eustachian tubes to open, allowing higher-pressure air from your throat to enter your middle ears.

• Every 33 feet of saltwater equals 1 atmosphere of pressure. Air in a diver’s body and dive gear will compress as pressure increases (and expand as pressure decreases).

Despite the seriousness of the topic and the volume of information, by the time the course was complete I felt well prepared for my checkout dives.

Getting my gear ready.

Photo by Christian Apicella.

My son and I doing a quick snorkeling reconnaissance at Salt Pier on Bonaire. We found crystal clear water and lots of turtles! Photo provided.

OK, back to the cold dark...

We were lost in blackness with only our thoughts to comfort us. I hoped my son was relaxed and remaining calm. All we could do was wait; panic could be disastrous. Breath, relax. Breath, relax. Gradually the silt faded to the lake floor and a pair of fins slowly came into sight. I looked to my son. His eyes were a little larger than before the silt explosion, but he looked confident and ready to proceed. An instructor came over and gave us the OK sign. We flashed it back.

I can only imagine this is what Jacques Cousteau experienced in the 1950’s when he first explored the depths of the ocean using his newly invented ‘Aqua-Lung.’ If he were still alive today, he and I would probably meet once a year in a fishing village on the Northern New England coastline to share stories over a steaming cup of Earl Grey tea. I would be wearing a traditional merino wool fisherman’s sweater, and he would be topped off in his famous bright knitted wool cap.

OK, back to reality… the dive proceeded, and we continued to explore Lake George. Although it’s no tropical destination, Scuba students are treated to a variety of objects spread across the lake bottom. As we methodically kicked our way along, we explored an old airplane wreck complete with a mannequin inside, a rusted car, a tiny sailboat and a variety of statues.

Before we knew it, we had reached the end of our dive. We made a final check of our gauges and they both read just over 500 psi take pressure. Perfect. Standard protocol is:

• 3000 psi: begin dive

• 1500 psi: turn back

• 500 psi: begin a slow and controlled ascent to the surface.

Reaching the surface, we gave each other a big smile and a high-five. We were officially certified ‘Open Water’ divers!

EPILOGUE:

Approximately 5 months after receiving our certification, we were able to visit the tropical island of Bonaire where we put our newly acquired skills to good use. The island, which is located off the coast of Venezuela (86 miles east of Aruba), is protected by the Bonaire National Marine Park. Because of its protected nature, the reefs are teeming with aquatic life, some brightly colored and some mysterious. Among the underwater ecosystem we were able to swim alongside sea turtles, trumpet fish, parrot fish, barracuda, clown fish and eels to name a few.

Diving in Bonaire was truly like being in another world. If you want to plan a trip to the Dutch Island, but some of your family members don’t Scuba, there’s still plenty to experience on land. Bonaire is home to the worldrenowned Salt Pans; some of the best fresh seafood restaurants in the region; and it is steeped in colorful Caribbean Dutch tradition.

The Art of Chipping & Pitching –A lesson on the Short Game

Many times players hit approach shots into greens that come up a little short.  They are then posed with the decision of how to get the ball closer to the intended target.  In order to get the ball close, the player will make a choice as to what style of shot to perform in order to get the best possible result.  Do I need to chip or pitch the ball to get the ball close?  Players confuse these two shots quite often and I’m going to provide some clarity into these two shots.  Players need to decide how they can advance the ball with or without any obstruction.  Meaning do I have the ability to advance the ball by carrying it a short distance and letting the ball roll out.  Or do I have an obstacle in front of me that is forcing me to have to go up and over something example: a bunker, a bush, a cart path, a tree, a body of water, etc.  Where the ball lies tells you what to do and then it is up to the player to choose a style of shot (hence to chip or to pitch) and select a club, stance, and swing, to give the player the best chance of a positive outcome.

TIPS from the Golf PRO

WRITTEN BY JIM FEIPEL, PGA DIRECTOR OF GOLF PHOTOS PROVIDED

Before I cover the two styles of shots there is a phrase that I like to install in the minds of my students to make the correct choices. The phrase goes like this…..

“PUTT WHEN YOU CAN, CHIP WHEN YOU CANNOT, AND PITCH ONLY WHEN YOU HAVE TOO.”

What the phrase means is if you have an opportunity to putt, in theory you are giving yourself I higher percentage of getting the ball as close to the target as possible than if you were to chip or pitch the ball.  If you have to chip, this means that you are a little too far beyond your putting distance or range and you need another option to execute the shot.  Chipping the ball with a less lofted iron allows you to “bump” the ball and then let the ball roll out the remaining distance to the hole.  We use this style of shot as an alternative to putting or pitching, as the next available option to getting as close to the intended target as possible.  If you have to pitch the ball, this means that you have to go up and over an obstacle and it’s a shot/swing that requires confidence and commitment and players usually lack confidence in performing this shot and end up worse off then when they started, which is why I only recommend when you absolutely have no other choice.

CHIPPING:

Objective:  To take a short abbreviated stroke, with a lower lofted club, which will take a short hop upon contact and once the ball hits ground will roll out a majority of the way to the intended target.

Club Selection:

When your just a few yards off the green I recommend using a pitching wedge.  The reason for the lofted club is that you will not have a lot of green to work with so you want the ball to come off the club softly as to not hit the ball hard and have it roll quite a bit past the intended target.

If your 10-20 yards off the green I recommend using an 8 iron.  This club has less loft and will come of the clubface a little fasted so that the player does not have to add more force, and the ball will still roll out to the intended target.

STANCE & POSTURE:

When making a stance for this shot,  we first want to be in close to the ball with our body and quite vertical with our legs and torso.  We do this so that are arms and shoulders control the swing and make pivoting back and through seamless.  We don’t need to add power for this shot.  Next, we open the stance slightly by dropping the left foot just behind the right and keep our feet very close together (about the length of the clubhead). This allows for the pivot back and through to be with minimal force and to have the hips be able to rotate to the target without tension.  Body weight will be 60% on the front foot and 40% on the back foot.  The helps encourage a downward descending blow to the back of the ball for good quality contact.  When we place the 60% body weight on the front foot, this will cause a forward lean of the shaft of the club.  This is correct.  Also the shaft will have a forward lean to it causing hands to set up on the inside of the front thigh as we want our hands to always be leading this shot.

BALL POSITION & STROKE:

Ball position will be located off the inside heel of the back foot.  This position helps with the downward blow to the ball for optimum contact.  Grip pressure is constant and not The shoulders push the club low and away from the ball, where the hands would be just outside the back leg.  The forward stoke is where the wrists do not bend and therefore the hands and shaft travel down the target line and never let the clubhead pass.  Also as the club is returning to the ball the back hip is working its way toward the target in an effort to keep the hands and club traveling down the target line for as long as possible.

DISTANCE AND CONTROL:

To many times players from short distances have a direct focus on the flagstick.  Then they proceed to hit a shot that lands where the flagstick is and then the ball continues to roll off the green and the player cannot understand why there distance control is so inconsistent. The outline to distance control is indicted by the club as your unit of measurement.  Think of your golf club as the grip being the first third of the intended shot.  Then think of the steel part of the shaft being the two thirds of roll to the target.  When we chip we divide the shot into three equal parts.  Where the first third ends and the second third begins is the landing area.  The last two thirds allows for the velocity of the shot to run out and die nearest the hole.

PITCHING:

Objective:  To take a high lofted club and a long fluent swing in an effort to slide the club underneath the ball that creates a high shot that lands softly on the green.

Club Selection:  56° sand wedge or 60° lob wedge

Stance & Posture:  Your feet should be a little wider that shoulder width apart.  The swing will be a longer fuller swing so the wide base provides balance and stability.  At address lean into your front leg. The front leg should feel as though you have 60% of your body weight on your front leg. We do this to promote a downward descending blow to the bottom of the ball so that we get the necessary height on the shot for the ball to land softly on the green.  The common misconception of this shot being so close to the green and taking a fuller swing the player becomes cautious as to not wanting to hit the ball to far.  Player will often decelerate and shift weight to their back leg which produces a shot that is hit very thin or because the club is slowing down the player will often times take to much turf behind the ball and therefore not advancing the ball very little or not at all.   Posture should be that of a full swing.  A little more knee bend will cause the torso to tilt a little more than normal.  This is ok because again this promotes being able to slide the club underneath the ball and its very difficult to do this if we are vertical in our posture.

BALL POSITION & STROKE:

The ball position should be located off the inside heel of the front foot.  The reason the ball is forward is that when you combine body weight favoring the front leg and a ball position that is forward you give yourself the best chance to have the loft of the club slide underneath the ball to get that nice high shot.  When we swing the club we keep the club low and away from the body so that we create width.  Our hands, once outside the rear leg hinge the club vertically to the top of the swing.  At this point you should have maintained that 60% body weight on the front leg.  Do not shift weight to the back leg or we will create a poorly struck shot.  As the club and arms work their down to the ball we release the club to generate speed at the bottom of the arc so that we achieve a high flight of the ball.  Momentum of the swing will vary you to a high finish of the hands and club while being balanced over the front leg.

DISTANCE CONTROL:

Distance is controlled by the length of your backswing and then completing your follow through.  We again look to our  golf club for reference as to where our landing point should be for the pitch shot.  In the chip, it was one third air time and two thirds ground time.  In the pitch, it is two thirds air time and one third ground time.  If we look at the shot and divide in into three equal parts we will calculate where the two thirds reference point is and that is where we are trying to land the shot.  Once the shot lands it will then roll out the last third of the distance towards the intended target.

Waving to you from another fairway! - Jim

"If you want to get next to nature this is the place to come..."

PHOTO BY BECKY BRUEHL BESTUL SEE STORY AIRBOATS & ALLIGATORS ON PAGE 44