donnafiala@gmail.com

It’s exciting to see all the delightful events we all enjoy each season presenting themselves once again this year,and we’re blessed with gorgeous weather, as well! One such event which was introduced last year for the first time is the Bayshore Festival of the Arts, a two day event held at Sugden Regional Park on U.S. 41 E & Lakewood Blvd.

Usually, the first time an event is presented the attendance is lacking because no one really knows if it’s worth attending. However, this event was different. Over 7,000 people attended between the two days! An amazing feat in itself.

What is unusual about this event is that different performers appear about every hour and a half, starting at 11:00AM to 5:00PM. The show is free, and if you would like to park inside Sugden itself, the fee is $5, which is very convenient.

This year’s performers on Saturday, January 28, include Lely’s ROTC Color Guard, Paradise Coastmen, Barbershop Chorus, Seacrest High School Chorus, Opera, Naples Young Artists, Rebecca Richardson Quartet, Dan Miller-Lew Del Gatto Quintet, Frontline Bluegrass and our own star, Casey Weston.

Sunday, January 29, will feature Naples Klezner Revival Band, Barron Collier High School Jazz Band, Inish Irish Celtic Trio, Tir Na Nog Irish Dancers, West of Galway, Naples Concert Bank, Richard Smith, Julie Adams and Jon Garon, and the BAND OF THE U.S. AIR FORCE RESERVE with Naples High School Stephen Detjen and band members.

During the Festival, there will also be an Art Show of Juried Artists, Food Vendors such as the Real Macaw, Bamboo Café, Mongello’s Restaurant, Old World Market, Chick-Fil-A, Del-Mel Jamaican Restaurant, Moravela’s Pizza, Fred’s Diner/Naples, Rita’s Italian Ice and more. BRING YOUR OWN CHAIRS OR BLANKETS!

Have you ever been to a Turkey Fry?………….at Byran and Rondi Hauser’s home? If not, you’ve never been to a Turkey Fry. No one can prepare as tasty, crispy and juicy a turkey as the Hauser’s, and I’ll vouch for that! I feel blessed that they had one for me………..and that so many people came to share friendship!

A number of people have asked me about the accident on U.S. 41 E, so I promised I would include it in this column. For about 6 years now the East Naples community, and I, as their commissioner, have been asking the State (FDOT) for a stoplight at the intersection of Eagle Lakes Community Park/ Hitching Post and another one at Whistler’s Cove/South West Blvd.-Trail Acres. You see this is NOT a county road, so we cannot take it upon ourselves to install a light. We must ask the State, and they then study to see if the area meets “warrants”. Once it meets “warrants”, then the county has to find the dollars to install the light, mast arms, engineering, permitting, etc. The county usually seeks assistance with the cost from those businesses in the area that might benefit. In this economy of late, it hasn’t been easy to find that assistance, understandably, because we’re talking in the range of $450,000! The light at Eagle Lakes finally met the warrants, and a developer stepped forward to partially fund the project (the park is also supposed to contribute to the cost), and that light and mast arms are being designed to fit that area specifically. The other area by Whistler’s Cove did not meet warrants, but then again, the warrants are based on vehicle traffic, not pedestrian traffic, which is mainly the type of traffic for this intersection.

I personally asked the State a number of times if there was anything that could be installed to caution traffic or assist the walkers and bikers with safe passage from one side of U.S. 41E to the other, across 6 lanes of traffic going at least 55 mph. Look at Marco with the lighted cross walks that provide safe passage on Collier Blvd.! Or possibly caution signals could be activated to stop signals when a button is pushed. Anyway, the third accident just occurred last week. The first was a young man coming home from Lely High School on his bike, the second was a two-car accident, and now the third was a woman who was hit crossing U.S. 41E and was killed. This MUST stop! Please write FDOT and tell them how important it is to provide safety for the walking public to get across U.S. 41 E by Whistler’s Cove. I could use your help and support!

Last Saturday the Columbiette’s from San Marco Catholic Church had a Winter Wonderland Dinner Dance, and I believe I saw every dedicated volunteer and community advocate at those tables! What a marvelous group! I bet Father Tim is extremely proud of his congregation and fellowship shared by all.

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When my beloved daughter was seven years old she wanted to be a football player. As a dutiful dad I bought her a football, but carefully explained that small, not particularly-fleet-footed female persons would have problems playing against very large apes. She listened carefully to my shreds of wisdom (an uncommon experience both as to listening and wisdom) but continued to toss the ball and indulge her fantasies.

After some years she realized that, at five feet five and a hundred or so pounds, she just wasn’t going to make it. She hadn’t even been running any faster. At that point she faced reality and proudly announced that she was going to be a football coach. What could I say? She knew the X’s and O’s, man-to-man and zone coverages, blitzes, 4-3 and 3-4 defenses, split ends, wide receivers, slot receivers, the Tampa two-deep pass defense, and even the Bears’ 46 defense. She thrived on John Madden’s color commentary, and held herself personally responsible for John Riggins breaking free against the Dolphins to cement her beloved Redskins’ Super Bowl Championship. I had taken her to Canton, Ohio, to visit the Pro Football Hall of Fame. She clearly knew more football than some ex-jocks who make outrageous claims about their careers.

As she pursued her high school studies, and did very well, the time came for her to apply to various colleges. We consulted – only to the extent that she told me where she would be sending applications – and I did not say much. Then came the request from Stanford University, known for its wonderful academics, slightly quirky student body, fair football teams, and superb reputation as a university. The request? Please send us an essay about yourself. Stanford was high on her list, so the matter of the essay was important.

Her: “Dad, Stanford wants an essay from me; I don’t know what to write and they didn’t give me any guidelines.”
Me: “What I know about Stanford is that it’s a great school, but not rigidly conventional. They apparently enjoy having students who are a bit unusual. How about writing why you want to be a football coach?”
Her: “Oh, c’mon Dad, you must be kidding me! They’ll never want someone who writes that.”
Me: “Is Stanford your number one choice? Are you willing to take a chance on what I believe about their policy?”
Her: “It’s my first or second choice, so I want to be sure to have a chance of getting in.”
Me: “Try my suggestion. They’ll love it. You can’t lose.” I regretted the final suggestion just as the words reached her.

She did it. She wrote the essay and explained about her passion for football, among other things. With trepidation she mailed it. About ten days later she received her acceptance at Stanford.

Well, she decided to go to one of them there Ivy League schools on the East Coast, and then to law school. To this day I believe that – notwithstanding her great success as a lawyer – she would have rather been a coach.

In the past few years I have decided that she was right after all. Before he was let go, Bobby Bowden was the highest paid state employee in the State of Florida. Nick Saban is a mega-millionaire in Alabama, after sojourns in other football venues; Les Miles enjoys a rich life in Louisiana; and Urban Meyer has just received the deed to half of Ohio for agreeing to coach at Ohio State. True, very few coaches do that well financially, and their careers may be short. But, they are out in the fresh air with a bunch of unruly kids, and they don’t have to listen to questionable clients or, especially, lawyer jokes.

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donnafiala@gmail.com

Most of the cheerful twinkling lights and decorations have now been taken down and stored away until next year. I loved the feeling they gave the community. They are missed already, but – now we have something to look forward to next year. For now, there’s not much of anything more beautiful than Marco Island, so let’s drink in its beauty and enjoy its community spirit.

Many people have asked why the County doesn’t have a Gas to Energy plant at the landfill, and I’m happy to tell you we now have one. I promised to write about it in this week’s Coastal Breeze. The facility was actually opened in April, 2011. To explain it a little, landfills produce gas, and that gas either must be captured and burned (which the county has been doing) or converted to energy. Waste Management paid the capital cost to construct the landfill-gas-to-energy facility and interconnect with Florida Power & Light. They will operate the facility, purchase the landfill gas from the county and share the revenue from electricity sales equally above a revenue sharing threshold. The landfill produces enough gas to fill almost 11 Goodyear blimps every day! That gas is now used as an alternative source of energy that provides a revenue stream for the County. It is estimated that the new plant will produce enough electricity to power more than 2,196 households annually.

The landfill-gas-to-energy is projected to provide the county with over $480,000 in its first full year of operation, with net revenue of approximately $14.9 million over the twenty-year term of the agreement. An additional bonus is that the Landfill-gas-to-energy facility is the first LEED-certified building in Collier County (LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design which requires meeting stringent standards). I thought you might find this interesting.

Mark your calendars! The Kiwanis Car Show is just around the corner, and you just might want to include one of yours! This event is always a favorite among Islanders. It’s grown to be one of the largest shows in the area, thanks to John DeRosa and his Kiwanis worker-bees.

“eBooks” has come to the Marco Island Library! You can now check out and return free library eBooks very simply. You can use ePub or PDF, or Kindle Book format, or Kindle Fire. Why not stop by the Library and talk with one of the librarians and pick up a guide to check out and return free library eBooks, or http://collier. lib.overdrive.com for more information.

I felt honored to have again been invited to the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Dept. of Homeland Security Flotilla 95 – 45th Annual Change of Watch, held at Hideaway Beach on Saturday, Jan. 7th. You couldn’t meet a nicer room of people! John DeFalco will remain Flotilla Commander for another year, which is quite an honor to serve two years in a row. Arne Kelsey will serve as Vice Flotilla Commander. It was great to see Doug Johnson, Frank Caricato and Roger Blau again, along with Walter & Barb Jaskiewicz, Ray Rosenberg & Linda Spell, and Larry Oswald, and I got to sit next to Lou Woessner and Ray Rosenberg. These guys all look so handsome in their dress blues! They spoke of the Water Wise program for the Marco Island children, and said they will continue to offer this program for every 3rd grader on Marco, to educate about water safety and safeguard these young people. Of course, they offer many other wonderful things such as recreational boating safety, operations and Marine safety, and fellowship, which is ever so important! Their membership has grown quite well this past year, and younger people seem to be more interested in the program.

Receiving the Commanders Award was a very deserving Doug Johnson. The Auxiliarist of the Year was Mike Ludwig, and Fellowship of the Year went to Tammy Ludwig. A good time was had by all!

There’s so much more to tell you, but alas, I’m out of space. See you next issue! 

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Bengoshi@comcast.net

‘Tis the most joyous time of year in our household. The decorations are stowed away, the tree is down, Christmas and New Year’s have passed by without mishap, and most important the MONSTER SALES HAVE BEGUN! There is sheer rejoicing at home. I am fortunate to share my life with the Consummate Professional Shopper (henceforth known as “CPS” or “Wife”). Her ears are up like a thoroughbred racehorse ready to get to the post; she can sense an incipient sale within a radius of 250 miles. She has what is known in psychological circles as ESP (Extra Sales Perception).

Local news, business matters, world news – even her beloved football – have been relegated to the rear because post-holiday sales are all-consuming. The other night she had a vision of a forthcoming sale and her resulting shriek of happiness awakened even our stuffed animals. It’s a marvel to behold her in action. Her talent is matched only by her determination to be a shopping wizard. CPS is able, in the words of Gene Rodenberry, “to go where no one has gone before” in search of a spectacular sale. (For curious trivia buffs, please note that Rodenberry originally wrote “where no man…” but it was changed in later Star Trek episodes to “no one” apparently, finally, in order to recognize the proper role of women!).

Every evening CPS pores over the ads, seeking out that very special sale that will fill the larder for next year’s holiday season. This is the first time that we have revealed a deep secret: CPS has saved many thousands of dollars by getting next Christmas gifts 11 months in advance!

We are soon approaching mid-January, 2012. Our Christmas shopping for most of the family is already about 94.63% done. The remainder is for the little kids who grow at unpredictable rates, so their clothing gifts must wait a bit. Gifts for friends also must wait a little, since CPS would not agree to anything that could be out of fashion by Christmas, 2012.

CPS has the uncanny ability to know how much is saved, down to three decimal points. Just the other night she sensed a sale at Coastland Mall, where she is on a first name basis with all salespeople at the major department stores. We raced to the car, sped to Coastland on automatic pilot, and zeroed in on the evening’s great bargains. Success! CPS spent a pittance for hundreds of dollars for prime stuff for our relatives. With the money saved we have been able to afford to pay for one vacation trip every year. To CPS and Wife my eternal gratitude for her skill, daring and resolve. I really enjoy that vacation…

There is only one minor drawback. Our guest bedroom is now known as the “Giftwrap Room” since it is loaded with gifts and wrappings for next Christmas. However, even that apparent drawback has an immense benefit: there’s no longer room for pesky relatives who are desperately trying to escape the wintry blasts of the northern climes!

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The Marco Island Christmas Island Style Parade was just terrific! Almost everyone on the Island was outside in the beautiful weather greeting the parade participants and toasting their neighbors. There were 4 cars in my little section of the parade, and the people with me were flabbergasted at the community spirit displayed! There were lots of tailgating parties between neighbors and friends, and people were dressed for the holidays. It makes me so proud to be your commissioner and your friend because YOU are what community spirit is all about!

Speaking of Christmas, let me tell you a darling story about a friend of mine. She and her husband live on the Island, but were going to Georgia with her son and family to visit her daughter and family and new little 7 month old baby boy. Brian (the grandfather) decided two months ago that he wanted to take a refrigerator box to Georgia for the newest baby for Christmas, so he called all the stores in our area searching for a refrigerator box. No one had one, so he asked to be put on a wait-list in case one came in. Finally, a few days before they were to leave, and calling everyone once again to make sure no one had one, he decided to buy a refrigerator for their rental unit (because sooner or later they would need one anyhow, you know), so now he had the box he was looking for. The next challenge was to get it into their mini-van! But you’re already beginning to realize this man was up to any challenge presented, because he had a little grandson that would love the box. Yes, they had to squish a little, but they got it in there and they packed all of the other gifts inside the box. I don’t know if the little tyke could ever be as excited about getting the box as Brian was to give it, but Brian’s eyes just sparkled with delight (and a little mischief as well) as he prepared to leave. While up there he cut little windows in the sides and a little door that swings open, and showed the little guy how they worked. It was really a joyous story, and a story I wanted to share with you.

Another Christmas story, this time from my past: Years ago I owned a Maternity Store in Central Mall (which was also the location for the first Beall’s in town, and the Kon Tiki Theater, Johnston’s of Florida, etc.) It was a delightful store and just grew and grew to include children’s clothing as well. I worked a full time job, and then worked at the store evenings and weekends. My daughter worked for me and would bring her little baby to work with her, which all expectant Moms wanted to hold and cuddle. One day I was alone in the store and had to make a bunch of bows for a Christmas event the Naples Junior Woman’s Club was sponsoring. I couldn’t make a bow for the life of me, so I called a friend to come over and help. She laughed her head off at the mess I was making with the bows, and vowed never again to put me in charge of bow-making. To this day I buy my bows and tape them to packages, so the gifts under the tree look wonderful.

In the next issue we’ll get down to business. I will write about the Gas to Energy process the county has begun at the landfill, and also about those blue lights at stop lights, among other things. In the meantime, my wish is for you to have a New Year filled with joy and happiness, good health and family love.

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A friend of mine recently appeared clutching the latest technological marvel – the iPhone 4s that talks to you. He proudly demonstrated this newest wonder. “What is the weather forecast for today?” he queried. Virtually instantly the miniature lady we remember from our GPS days responded, “Turn left at Bald Eagle and go two miles to Old Marco”. It was brilliant! Imagine converting a tiny little person into an even tinier little person while retaining speech capability… not to mention the superior mental capacity. I gasped at the genius of this Thing, especially since I still have trouble handling my no-camera-included flip phone – a genuine collector’s item. But, technology marches on.

The next iterations of this marvel will be in somewhat different formats, according to nationality and culture. Each version will be tailored carefully to a particular country or area.

The British version will be male and very friendly. When asked about the weather he will cheerfully answer, “Good to hear you again old chap (or chapess for a female inquirer). Today will be a balmy 7 degrees Celsius, with intermittent showers. Be sure to take your brolly when you venture forth. Cheers.”

In France a soft, sexy female will answer, “Bonjour, mon chere, I ‘ave missed you so much, mais we can deal wiz zat later ce soir. Tonight will be tres bon for a bit of romance, avec temperature of 12 Celsius, although body temperatures will be much warmer ma cherie. Bon soir.”

Our German version will feature a guttural male. “Achtung, dumbkopf! Today it is a healthy 2 degrees Celsius. You vill enjoy das fine day. Auf wiedersein.”

The jolly Irishman is as nice as can be. “ ‘Tis a fine soft day, Thank God. The rain will continue to green up our beautiful Isle. Never mind the temperature me boy (or girl). We’ll be indoors at the pub and can enjoy a lovely pint later. Slante.”

A new addition will be for those Down Under. Our Aussie pal will say. “G’day mate (applied equally to male and female). The Jolly Swagman reports that it’s about 15 degrees; I don’t care if it’s Celsius or Fahrenheit; I just want to have fun. See you at the Billabong in a while cobber.”

In Italy a delightful male will croon, “Ciao, amico (or amica). Come va? Eet eez so nice-a to hear from you. How eez Papa and Mama. Today we cook da pasta at 125 degrees Celsius. Oh, da outside weather is verrry nice. Arriverdaci.”

A softly spoken Japanese lady will whisper (turn up the volume), “Ah, so nice to hear you [fill in last name] san. We enjoy your voice and are so happy you buy [fill in name of manufacturer]. Today we are happy to have cherry brossoms, and you should have many joys in sunshine even though it is raining.”

Of course there’s a Russian with a deep baritone voice. He answers, “Hello Tovarich. We have enough vodka to handle any kind of miserable weather sent from the West. Comrade Putin tells us not to worry. Just go to the State owned liquor store and tell them the forecast is for snow, ice, below freezing temperatures in any scale, and Comrade Putin, Our Leader For Life, strongly suggests we buy three cases of vodka – enough to last a full week. Nozdirovya!

Of course, there’s an edition especially tailored for New York. “Are you talkin’ to me? Are you talkin’ to me? Fagettaboutitt! Who wants to know? Do I know you? Awright, since you been bodderin’ me it’s cold out dere. Beat it.”

Of course, most of us don’t like stereotypes. I confidently predict the generic version will be the best seller. However, be sure to make it clear whether you are asking for directions or the weather forecast.

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donnafiala@gmail.com

Donna Fiala

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas………..everywhere we go. And that it is! Everything looks so happy and cheerful, brightly colored lights and decorations. It almost makes my heart sing, and it certainly puts us all in the mood to enjoy this time of year, no matter what religion we practice.

The Vietnam Wall memorial event presented on Dec. 7th -Pearl Harbor Day-was very moving and emotional. I had the honor of sitting next to Walter Tucker, a survivor of Pearl Harbor and a World War ll veteran.

What a terrific guy Walter is! At nearly 90 years old, his mind is as sharp as a tack, and he forgets nothing! He and his wife had 7 sons and 8 daughters, some of whom were at the memorial service with Walter. Walter spoke to the audience about soldiers coming home from Vietnam, and how they were treated by their own country…. by their own people! What a sad day in history for these soldiers who were disgraced and humiliated.

He said most of his life he had an angel on his shoulder. His message to everyone is “Love Each Other”. He said the world wouldn’t have the problems nor the wars if each of us loved his fellow man and treated him with respect. I felt humbled to sit next to this man.

It looks like this time of year is also being extra kind to the merchants around our county. The other day I went into Lowe’s and found the Christmas section was reduced to one part of one aisle, and only leftovers were there to pick from. One of the clerks said they were almost sold out just days after they received their big shipment! So glad to hear that! Things are beginning to pick up, as we can tell by the traffic and familiar faces coming back to town.

As I look at the cars on the road I realize it is not only our winter residents coming back to join us (and volunteer in so many ways!), but it is also our workforce going back to work and beginning to earn a living again. There will be many wonderful things to be grateful for this year. Our winter residents are one of them, our unemployment rate is going down, which is another, the improved economy is still another, and love and friendship wrap it all up in a neat package.

Next Saturday, Dec. 17th, will be the annual Marco Island Parade, which is always so much fun. I will see you there.

During the morning on the 17th there is another fun activity. The East Naples Civic Association, the E.N. Kiwanis, the E.N. Fire Department, and the Sheriff’s office hold their annual “Santa Run” for the children of Naples Manor and Mohawk Heights (which is located in the neighborhood behind Sugden Park off U.S. 41 E, opposite Lakewood). Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus will be riding in a sleigh, as all the volunteers (you can too, if you’d like to see this heart-warming event) throwing candy and toys to the children. We will meet at St. Andrews Square at 8:30AM. This year we have a special treat for these little tykes. The busy elves who reside at Blue Skies mobile home park in E.N. have been working all year to carve and paint toys for the children. These elves, Ed Kuyper and Robert Killabrew, buy all the wood and paint on their own, and create beautiful toys such as a train holding crayons, dinosaurs, trucks, and animals. We will be handing them out to each family for their children to enjoy. We thank these wonderful gentlemen for giving of themselves for the happiness of others.

The Isles of Capri Kayak and Canoe Park is moving along so well. People keep asking all the time about what is going on at the corner of Capri and Collier Blvds. This park will only be for non-motorized watercraft, plus it will feature a covered picnic area and a bathroom. The view is just spectacular! It should be open in a couple of months – maybe even by the end of January!

Sadly, I’ve run out of space, but before I leave, please let me wish each and every one of you a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS, and a very happy holiday season. Please know that each and every one of you is very special!

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My mind is numb; my senses are dull. It’s all because Christmas Selling Season started shortly before Halloween this year…and it’s accompanied by endless political commercials. The mailbox is overflowing with catalogs. No wonder the Post Office is floundering. Junk mail rates probably do not cover Post Office expenses.

However, the GREAT news is that I have compiled a superb Christmas list that I have dispatched to Santa because he will surely be enthralled by what I really, really want.

First on my list is commonplace according to television: On Christmas morn, according to numerous commercials, I expect to have my beaming wife escort me out the front door to see a shiny, brand new Lexus with an adorable red ribbon tied around it. Wow! This portends a spectacular Christmas.

Let’s not stop. There are so many other useful and less common gifts than a mere Lexus. In one estimable catalog I found an incredible gift that nobody should be without – a biometric wallet. It requires your fingerprint to open it! I’m going to call it “Scrooge” when it arrives. Not only is it a necessary and desirable present; it is also reasonable. You may have one for the bargain price of $599.95 (plus, of course the ubiquitous shipping and handling, or s&h).

How about a stainless steel business card case, especially useful for many retired folks who spend much of their time circulating business cards? Only $79.95 (plus s&h). For my wife I’m thinking about that stainless steel and I’m selecting the ladies stainless steel, wallet at a low, low $129.95 (plus, of course, s&h). Instead of the “Iron Maiden” we’ll call it “The Lady of Steel”. Will it reduce her shopping? Nah.

You may want to send someone you love a personal oxygen bar – whatever that is. For just $299.95 (plus you-know-what) you may believe you’re saving someone’s life!

Perhaps the most thrilling and exotic gift (I fully understand that you may not be able to control your excitement over this one) is a remote controlled Tarantula – for the hairy spider lover in your life. $29.95 (plus…)

If the spider is too much to handle, how about a remote control magic wand to replace or complement your tv clicker? Anyone even mildly addicted to Harry Potter must have one of these things. A bargain at $89.95 (plus that other stuff).

For the wanabee chefs there’s an indispensable electric pepper mill for only $89.95 (and…….). I understand it is guaranteed to improve the taste of anything you cook.

Finally, a terrific idea – a faceless watch! I suppose this is for people who are diffident about displaying the time on their wrists. If you don’t really care about knowing instantly what time it is, this one’s for you at $129.95 (plus).

I suppose most of this stuff is made in China as is almost everything else we buy these days. At a modest mark-up of about 4,000% is it any wonder why we are suffering a terrible trade balance?

My aging mind wanders back to the days when folks were content with Midnight Mass and other observances, and kids were happy with a few toys and the electric trains around the tree. As someone observed: “Nostalgia ain’t what it used to be.”

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donnafiala@gmail.com

Thanksgiving is such a wonderful, loving time of the year. It is the busiest season of all for the airlines, according to their ticket agents, and you could tell by the crowds of people heading to the airport at 5:00 in the morning!! How great that families want to be together to celebrate Thanksgiving! Hopefully each of you was able to be with family for this special holiday, and give hugs and kisses to your loved ones. My family mostly lives right here, but on this particular Thanksgiving all family members came to town and were pulling together with family support as my children’s father was spending his last days at Vitas Hospice in Physician’s Regional/ Collier Blvd.

Ted Fiala passed away the next morning after Thanksgiving and we were thankful we could all be there for him in his last days. The hospital/hospice was everything you could ever wish for in caring, cleanliness, understanding, and warmth. God Bless them for all they do to help the family through those last days, and make the patient as comfortable as they can. Thank you Father Tim for performing the Memorial Service. You are always there for your people when they need you the most. Bless You!

The ribbon cutting for the Jolley Bridge was just that! A happy, Jolley occasion and a Jolley family member was there to celebrate with us. Every time I travel over that bridge I remember how the Marco Islanders rallied together to ask the State to change the bridge abutment from a solid wall to a more open abutment where residents, visitors and friends can drink in the beauty of Marco Island as they approach. Here, the leader of the pack who gets my accolades is Keith Dameron! It was he who identified the problem, and from there we all worked together to a great conclusion. And of course, every time I drive over that bridge I think of Mike Minozzi who never let up on his encouragement to build that bridge! It was so nice having Lynn Minozzi with us to help cut the ribbon.

On Sunday, Dec. 4th the Marco Island Chamber of Commerce will hold its 24th Annual Christmas Gala where they spotlight the great works of residents who go above and beyond in their support of all that is good on Marco Island. It must really be tough for the judges to decide who to give the awards to, with SO MANY worthwhile candidates who are always there for all of us! I can hardly wait to hear who this year’s awards go to! See you there!

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Mrs. Michael F. Minozzi, Jr... remembering. PHOTO BY VAL SIMON/COASTAL BREEZE NEWS

I would like to take this moment to thank you, Mike Minozzi, for your passion, vision and persistence in giving the people of Marco Island this beautiful and safe second span to our bridge. I watched you over the years work so diligently, attending meetings and writing reports on why we should have this second span. I would see you sometimes way after midnight sitting at your computer making notes and deciding who to call. You never gave up even when there was adversity at your door step. You knew in your heart that a second span to our bridge was needed. 

Thank you to the City Manager and the Marco Island Council for the beautiful bronze plaque that has been placed on the monument donated by the Minozzi Family. Thank you to our Commissioner Donna Fiala, John Arceri and Bill Trotter in speaking on behalf of their friend, Mike Minozzi. Thank you to my Pastor, Father Tim Navin, for the beautiful prayer that you offered. Special thank you to Mike’s great friend, Joe Granda, for his continued support. 

Finally, thank you to our wonderful Firemen and Policemen who were there helping to keep everyone safe and for displaying our magnificent American flag. 

Well, I guess that’s about it, sweetheart. You would have been proud. I’ll be seeing you,

Your Loving Wife, Lynne 

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Bengoshi@comcast.net 

Several weeks ago, ON A Friday, I had the great, good fortune to wander down to a nameless facility located approximately across the street from City Hall. It’s a formidable place where folks sit for long stretches awaiting their turns. Luckily I was there only to pick up a kit for a test prescribed by one of my myriad doctors.

My good luck turned sour almost immediately. When I reached the bullet proof window after lurching through about a dozen patient patients who were absorbed in last year’s magazines, I told the guardian that I was simply there to pick up my prescribed kit. “Take a number”, she barked. I did, meekly, and sat.

After about half an hour my number was called. Back to the window I went. I said bravely, “I’m just here to pick up a prescribed test kit”. “Name, address, credit card, driver’s license and insurance cards”, she ordered. I opened my wallet and emptied it. She fled to a copy machine and made copies. After that I retreated and waited. Soon I was summoned and received a very imposing package.

Over the weekend I took the test. There is no way to describe it with any sense of decency. Suffice to report it was more than mildly unpleasant. However, as an obedient patient I followed instructions and enjoyed what was left of the weekend.

Early Monday morning I returned to the designated drop off place. Same size crowd was waiting very quietly. Clutching my valuable package I approached the window where Brunnhilde was eyeing me. Taking a lesson from Seinfeld’s “Soup Nazi” episode, I was careful to observe all protocols. Before I got to the window she got me. “Take a number”, again. I mumbled, “But I’m only here to drop off my Test”. She glared and I retreated.

After a decent interval I was delighted to hear my Bingo number called. I carefully walked to the window. “I have my test to drop off”, I said timidly.

“Credit card, driver’s license and insurance information”, she ordered. “But, I just gave them to you on Friday”. Silence, except for a suppressed giggle from a nice looking gent seated nearby. I gave her the stuff, and offered my mother’s maiden name and the name of my beloved dog, who has been gone these many years. She was unimpressed. “What’s your address?” she queried. I gave it to her. “I need your doctor’s name, address and phone number”. I had the temerity to say boldly, “It’s all on the sheet in the plastic envelope you have.” She reluctantly took the package, and I left. The nice guy just looked, nodded and smiled.

I passed the tests, but wonder…does all this bureaucracy have anything to do with the bloated healthcare costs we have?

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The Tigertail boardwalk/dune walkover project is waiting for the contractor’s delivery of materials to the jobsite. The pilings and substructure are a reinforced plastic design and the handrails and wear surfaces are IPE, a very dense hardwood that has performed very well in similar applications. The material delivery is anticipated for mid November. Once the material is delivered, construction will begin.

We anticipate a six to eight month overall construction schedule for the six walkovers, which will include 1 new walkover and five existing walkovers that will be rebuilt. The county intends to phase this project so that four walkovers are available at any one time for pedestrian access to the beach. Relative to the bathroom, and under mutual agreement with the City, no work will begin until the FEMA Flood maps are finalized. Once we receive them, and the City accepts the maps, the County will finalize the building permit application; the City will issue the permit and the bathroom will be built. The City has already granted the variance.

We are hoping that once these improvements have been made, more people will use Tigertail (there is great parking and easy access) and visitors and residents alike will have another opportunity to visit and enjoy one of our main attractions – the beach! It is also a great birding area and has been recommended in many birding books. Let’s hope this will help our wonderful Tony Smith – the vendor extraordinaire, who is ever so personable and caring, and makes great hamburgers!

The County has conducted the kick- off meeting with the agencies involved with the dredging at the mouth of Collier Creek, and has awarded the contract to Energy Resources for $262,000, with a 75-day construction schedule. This project will certainly be a blessed relief to the Marco boaters!

December 2nd begins this season’s Erich Kunzel Community Concert Series, starting at 7:00PM at Edison State College, 7007 Lely Cultural Parkway. The first presentation will feature the “Flute Cocktail,” directed by Wendy Willis. It is an astonishingly different ensemble of flutists! You will hear the entire family of flutes, bass to piccolo, perform classical and popular arrangements. Admission is $10 and you may order tickets online at www.bayshorecapa.org, click events, then EK Concert Series. You may also call 775-2800.

Last year was the first year the Bayshore Cultural and Performing Arts Center offered the series, and by the 3rd month, the auditorium was full and by the last two concerts there was standing room only. This small but mighty group just keeps growing stronger and bigger as people realize the amazing impact they will make on our community as they work toward building a Performance Hall featuring local entertainment and art. Different artists will perform on the first Friday of every month through May 4th. Scheduled to perform is the Naples Music Club Young Artists, Evening of Dance, Naples Orchestra and Chorus, Opera Naples, Young Artists, and Bach Ensemble Troubadours. I noticed some Marco regulars (like Russ & Linda Columbo) attended last year’s series.

Jazz in the Park Series begins November 20th with Patricia Dean performing. The Jazz in the Park series is held the 3rd Sunday of every month (through April) from 2:00PM to 4:00PM at the Sugden Regional Park, 4284 Avalon Dr. in East Naples off U.S. 41 E. Admission is free with a $5 parking fee within the park.

Each year I offer tours of various sites sponsored or owned by the County. We’ve seen the jail, the landfill, the Emergency Ops center, water and wastewater treatment plants, recycling centers and more. This year my tours will begin on Dec. 6th at 2:00PM at the Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr. We will meet at the Visitors’ Center. There is no cost to these tours, but you must RSVP to attend. The Tourist Development Council grants the Botanical Garden monies to promote this gorgeous park (the only one of its kind in S.W. Florida), which also promotes our area. I know you will enjoy this tour! The other tours coming up are Emergency Operations Center on Jan. 17th (last year we had to turn people away), Traffic Management Center on January 31st, at 1:30 PM (learn how the lights are timed and the intersections are viewed), and then two of the County Museums on Feb. 8th at 10:00AM. We just might view the Domestic Animal Services buildings in March as well. If you are interested in signing up for any, or all (some have already signed up for all the tours) of these tours, please call my assistant, Alexandra, at 252-8601.

And with that, Dear Friends, I wish you a wonderfully happy Thanksgiving. We truly have so much to be thankful for!

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Donna Fiala

Lots of good news for the boaters on Marco Island and all the surrounding areas! The County has just approved $262,000 for the emergency dredging of Collier Bay entrance channel.

Presently, Collier Bay is experiencing hazardous boating conditions with the accretion of approximately 10,000 cubic yards of beach compatible sand in the mouth of its entrance channel. Approximately one third of the Marco Island boating community routinely accesses Collier Bay using this channel.

This project will restore safe navigation by removing the shoal that is creating a hazardous boating condition. Beach compatible sand dredged from this location will be discharged in the near shore tidal zone on the down drift Hideaway Beach beaches.

Tourism Development Council (CDC) funds can be used for the dredging, according to the County Attorney, if a finding is made that it promotes tourism. An Emergency Resolution supporting this dredging was received from the City of Marco Island.

All permits will be jointly issued to both the City of Marco Island and Collier County. In partnership with Collier County, the Hideaway Beach Improvement District, through the City of Marco Island, is funding the engineering and permitting of this project. A 75-day construction period is expected, and will be constructed by a local vendor. The Coastal Advisory Council and TDC both recommended approval.

Breaking News! Beginning November 7th, FP&L will be replacing the overhead power lines with UNDERGROUND LINES along Collier Blvd/951, to try to eliminate situations like the one experienced on Friday, Oct. 28th. The tremendous rain storm damaged FP&L equipment along the line, and due to difficulty in accessing it, it took crews working all night long to restore service.

There are so many unsung heros on Marco Island, but in this column I’d like to mention the team of Lou & Barbara Prigge. They seem to volunteer to help everyone, plus reach out on their own……… like their annual Halloween Party for the Marco Island children as well as any other children who drop by.

Of course their neighbors and Marco Kiwanis Club also dig in to help this marvelous effort to treat the children to a fun night. And at the end of it all…………..they walk away holding hands. After 52 years of marriage they still show their love for each other. I feel humbled to call them “Friends”.

What fun we had at the Marco Island Police Foundation party the other night! The food from Erin’s Isle was just wonderful, but I enjoyed The Rat Race game the best! There were lots of games (Jerry Gibson was one of the game hosts, and added an extra touch of humor as he went.)

This week a ground breaking event was held for the beginning of construction on Davis Blvd & Collier Blvd/951. That whole area is getting a rebuild, so expect to take a little longer when heading for the I-75 interchange. This will be a two-year project, but when it is finished, traffic should flow a lot faster and smoother.

That interchange can get pretty hectic during Season and weather occurrences. The transportation people will be doing both roads simultaneously, so be prepared. How nice it would be if they could keep traffic flowing like they did with the Jolley Bridge, but that doesn’t seem possible with this interchange.

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I believe the three deadliest words in the English language are: “They give you…” Immediately following the venomous three is a litany of what is served at the speaker’s latest favorite restaurant. The list never ends. It’s a symbol of America’s overwhelming passion for more and bigger…bigger cars, SUV’s, houses and, maybe above all else – food. Food, glorious food, but not the kind craved by Oliver Twist. We yearn for a lot more than gruel.

What we consume in an ordinary restaurant evening puts Henry VIII to shame. Cocktails, flagons of wine (not that there’s anything wrong with that), teeming appetizers, soups, salads, a slab (not piece) of roast beef half the size of Yankee Stadium, and then the coup de grace – dessert of course. A mountain of pie with whipped cream the height of Mt. McKinley on top, or a sundae with uncountable scoops of ice cream in a sea of hot fudge…oops, I’ve gained six pounds just thinking of it. Then, the after dinner drink or two (not that there’s anything wrong with that). Not content with our vast consumption we often ask for boxes to collect the poor, sad remaining shreds. Those of us with animals (not humans, mind you) have a reasonable excuse. And, there may be a few diners with small gullets who want two meals for the price of one. Fair enough. But then there are those who scrape up every remaining roll or piece of bread and add it to the stash just to collect more food. Boxes in hand we waddle out of the restaurant with another mission accomplished. Quality? Sure we want stuff that looks and tastes good, but if the portions are “small” we rebel and write off the restaurant.

Certain meetings and receptions go even farther over the edge. For example, in my last incarnation, our company held a reception in New York for travel agents. They arrived, armed with shopping bags. In a trice almost all the food vanished. The cutlery followed and even some crockery. What followed was right out of bizzarro world…someone disappeared with the ice sculpture centerpiece! Maybe he/she was thirsty. At the end of the evening we were left with a number of puzzled sales people and a couple of stained table cloths.

Even the once lowly hot dog has reached enormous proportions. There are now super jumbo sizes large enough to sink a battleship. When loaded with mustard, ketchup (for those who don’t know better), onions and sauerkraut it takes a derrick to lift the monster, much less chomp on it. With that much sauerkraut one weekend’s football games could produce enough natural gas to supply our entire country for a month. Who ever harnesses that much energy will become an instant millionaire.

My sainted mother used to tell me to eat all my food while thinking of all the starving children in Europe. I wondered every day how my failure to consume huge quantities of food affected those starving kids. I still don’t know, but maybe Mom was onto something.

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Donna Fiala

By the time you are holding this copy of the Coastal Breeze, we will be congratulating a most happy couple: Mr. & Mrs. Dick Shanahan! This marvelous occasion will take place and be celebrated on Friday, Oct. 21st, and we are just delighted to see the joy on their faces as they start a new life together! With all these two wonderful people do for the Island and Islanders, I’m surprised they had time for a wedding, but I can tell you this……………they didn’t have time for a Honeymoon. Nope, they are working the very next day at the Police Foundation benefit, which we hope all of you will attend. This event will take place on Saturday, 5:30PM, Oct. 22nd at San Marco Catholic Church. You can buy tickets any place for $25. I bought mine from Joe Granda, in case you are looking around for a ticket distributor. I think Mr. & Mrs. Shanahan will have plenty to do at that time, so try Joe for tickets. For now………….let’s all raise our glasses and celebrate the wedding of two wonderful people – Dick & Debra Shanahan! May they have many years of happiness!

Also, a tip of the glass to Mike Ward of Erin’s Isle. This man never ceases to amaze me with all that he does for Marco Island and for his fellow man. Nothing is ever too much for him. He is always there to support any worthwhile cause. He’s one of those unsung heroes that never asks for any praise, just quietly goes about his business for the benefit of the community. You can’t help but love the guy!

On a different note: Coming in January is the Republican Primary. Just so you know, you MUST be a registered Republican to vote in the Primary. You cannot be an Independent nor an NPA (No Party Affiliation) because you will not be eligible to vote. This is the time the Republicans pick a candidate to run in the Presidential race, so be sure to make your voice heard. If you need to re-register as a Republican to vote in this Primary it must be done by January 3rd! If this is important to you, as it is to me, please don’t put it off! Call the elections office or look them up on-line. This is too important an issue to “forget”. And, by the way, there will be many more final decisions made locally in the August Primary, where once again you must be registered as a Republican to vote in the Commission race. Right now Marco Island has 3 (soon to be 4, from what we have heard) people running for the Commission seat now held by this writer. One of those is a Republican, so the race between the other person and me will be decided in August!! Most people are not aware that their vote in August means everything to the winning candidate, so please don’t change your Republican Party affiliation until after the August 14th race, if you would like to be a deciding factor in that contest.

Speaking of elections – Hats off to Litha Berger for seeing the need and having the determination to start the Caxambus Republican Club! The meetings are exciting. The After 5’s (4th Wednesday of each month at C.J.’s) are fun and the networking is great. I think they are already up to 100 members and they’ve only just begun! Why not drop by to see if you’d like to become a part of this terrific Republican organization?

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