Vintage Lincoln Car, one of more than 170 classic cars to be displayed. SUBMITTED PHOTO

On February 19, 2012 the Kiwanis Club of Marco Island will be hosting their annual Car Show. This is the eighth year for this show and it promises to be better than ever. As in the past, there will be no fee to enter your car. All entries will be eligible to win a trophy. If you are an owner of a car that you would like to enter remember the date and arrive before 9:30 AM. This is a great way for car owners to help children, which is the motto of Kiwanis. All monies collected will go to various children’s programs.

This year the Golden Gate Lacrosse team will be present to help with the 50/50 selling. They are in need of uniforms and equipment. We also have the Irish Dancers to entertain and delight the crowd with their talent and the popular Marco Island Charter Middle School band will perform.

We will have food, drink, ice cream and Zeppoles (Italian Donuts) prepared by the Italian American Society available for purchase. Steve Reynolds will be guest MC, providing nostalgic music from the 50’s and 60’s. We have also invited back the “$6 table” with its array of costume jewelry, purses and other items on sale for $6. This was a great hit with the ladies last year.

The show will again be located at the Marco Healthcare Center at the corner of San Marco Road and Heathwood Drive and will start at 10:00AM and end at 3:00PM. Any questions please contact John DeRosa at 239-272-0816.

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Marie Scott, Laurie Wagor and Lisa Marciano. SUBMITTED PHOTOS

One of the remarkable things about the Marco Island Historical Museum is how the outside world has been incorporated into each part of the complex. This even extends to the gem of a gift shop. Laurie Wagor, a long-time Marco Island resident, is Chairperson of Events for the Museum, and also guru of the gift shop.

After an eight year stint with the Marriott as Director of Tennis, and 18 years as Sports Center Manager, Laurie moved over to the Museum. With a strong background in retailing and sales she joined with Nancy Garrison to design and develop the gift shop. Their idea, in concert with the other parts of the project, was “to bring the outside in”. That can be seen immediately on entering the shop. It has a familiar theme of the thatched overhead. Laurie has stocked the shelves with items not ordinarily seen in museum gift shops. She has filled the shop with everything from hand-fashioned Indian masks to a wonderful replica of the famous Marco Cat (now in the Smithsonian) to books for young and old dealing with facets of Calusa life and culture and other subjects particularly related to Marco Island.

For the kids.

Any profits from the gift shop go to the Marco Island Historical Society. Laurie is supported by a bevy of devoted volunteers – at least 20 – who man (or woman!) the shop. Their sales have grown exponentially since knowledge of the Museum and its treasures has spread beyond the community itself. Laurie does the buying for the shop, and concentrates on unique items.

Beyond the gift shop, Laurie is focused on events, with many outstanding speakers and compelling exhibits as main attractions. Travel exhibits are under the wing of Lisa Marciano of Collier County, who serves as Assistant Manager. The Museum is, in effect, a joint undertaking of the city and county. The city is responsible for insurance and overhead, and attempts to break even by renting out Rose Hall (the auditorium) for films and speakers.

Corner of gift shop.

Currently the Museum is running an extraordinary exhibit of some paintings by “The Florida Highwaymen” – a group of black artists who have turned out over 200,000 paintings. That is not a typo; it is a real number! Several original Highwaymen have visited the Museum for book and art signings.

Noted artist Paul Arsenault delivered a lecture on January 19th about “A.E. “Beanie” Backus, Florida’s Highwaymen’s Friend and Inspiration”. Mr. Arsenault is best known locally for his depiction of Calusa life in tile on the exterior of the Museum.

Indian mask display.

Things are humming at the Museum with new exhibits, anticipated additional exhibit shelves and display cases and, of course, events in the Rose History Auditorium. The auditorium may be rented by groups for everything from weddings to concerts to films to seminars. This slice of life on Marco is not to be missed. Admission to the Museum is free. It is open from 10:00AM to 4:00PM from Tuesday through Saturday.

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Every year thousands of guests and visitors cross the bridge to Marco Island and fall in love with the island’s small town charm, intricate canal system, and beautiful beaches. Many return to vacation each year, while others decide to stay or return and make it their home. For some it is a predetermined path to paradise, while for others it is an unexpected random route. For some it is a new beginning of their youthful lives, but for others it is a retirement sanctuary to enjoy their well deserved leisure years. The story I am about to tell is one that typifies the pioneer spirit that enabled a 73-year-old widow to cross the Jolley Bridge and never look back.

Like many fellow Americans, my wife Debbie and I recently celebrated two of our favorite holidays, Thanksgiving and Christmas. When I think of the former holiday, a time set aside to remember our heritage and celebrate all that we have to be thankful for, I think of how fortunate I am to have been born in America and to have had loving parents who provided invaluable guidance and an abundance of pleasant childhood memories. When I think of my childhood, I am reminded of their greatest gift of all, their example of giving without reservation or expectation of reward. I realize how fortunate I was to have had selfless parents who taught me that true joy is in giving rather than in receiving.

Like many of my aging peers, I am now a parentless son who, during the holiday season, reflects on these memories of days past with mixed emotions. I experience sorrow for the loss of my mentors and loved ones, but I also have joy in my heart for the time we spent together. I have written often of my father, but not of my mother, Stefanie, an extraordinarily normal stay-at-home mom who, like many of her peers from the ‘Toughest Generation,’ courageously endured countless hardships on her life’s journey, a voyage that led her to Marco Island, her final destination.

Roy and Mom at school, Mothers Day 1965. SUBMITTED PHOTOS

In the 1950’s, television was in its infancy and selection was limited. One of the most popular series of the era was ‘I Remember Mama,’ a show depicting a loving family and the reverence shown toward their family matriarch. Mama was the glue that held them together, the one all looked to for guidance and help. I wasn’t a real fan of the show, because it left me with mixed emotions, especially when viewing an episode with Mom. As a child, it was inconceivable for me to think of my mother, whom I perceived as invincible and immortal, in the past tense. Unlike today, when over fifty percent of the working force consists of women, most mothers of the 50’s era were home moms and they ruled our world when our dads were at work. They were our teachers and counselors, our worthy adversaries and friends. They were our inspiring proponents and our greatest critics and disciplinarians. They inspired perfection and discouraged complacency. And, they didn’t hesitate to tell us the truths we often didn’t want to hear.

As a child, I actually believed mothers were inherently clairvoyant, for Mom seemed to possess skills that my father lacked. She seemed to know me better than I knew myself. She sensed what I was thinking as I processed my thoughts. She knew what I was about to say before I spoke. And, she fully anticipated my actions before I acted.

Mom was cordial and personable to guests and friends although she would occasionally balk if she deemed a girlfriend unsuitable. For the most part, she was a great judge of character and was usually correct in her assessments. There were times she rattled my nerves, because she appeared obsessive when it came to home maintenance and personal hygiene but, what I failed to realize at the time, was that I admired these qualities and would eventually seek, find, and revere these very traits in a wife. There were days Mom left me totally dumbfounded because, although normally consistent and steadfast, she was somewhat of a free spirit and at times, could be impulsive and far too complex to understand. I guess that too, prepared me for marriage.

Born in Mystic, Connecticut in 1917, Stefanie was the third youngest of six siblings whose parents had emigrated from mainland Greece. Christened Strumbula Gianitsas, the family quickly shortened Mom’s name to Stephanie just as they had abbreviated their surname to Johnson, a politically correct practice of the time. Mom later changed the spelling to Stefanie, a quirky modification she preferred. She and her sisters worked long hours in their father’s restaurant only to see the majority of their inheritance passed on to the only son, a common practice in a traditional Greek family at the time. Stefanie was able to benefit from the experience as she did with most adversity. She became independent and outspoken and, although she never considered herself a feminist, she continually championed an equal voice for women in the home, the workplace, in college, and in politics. She would become an extraordinary cook and baker because of the culinary skills she acquired from her days at her father’s restaurant that specialized in Mediterranean and American cuisine.

Stefanie left home at the age of 16 to seek independence. She loved and respected her Greek heritage, but yearned to become an Americanized, modern woman. Independent life would not come without consequence because she would mature much faster than she expected. At the age of seventeen, she survived the first of two harrowing experiences that nearly cost her life. While swimming alone at Riverside Park in New London, Connecticut, Stefanie developed severe leg cramps and struggled for over twenty minutes to make it to shore. She again faced death at the age of 21, when the “Hurricane of 1938” unexpectedly slammed into the Connecticut coastline downing electric lines and igniting a massive fire which consumed most of the area where she lived. She was forced to vacate her small apartment and head to her parents’ home five miles inland. Stefanie was just a few steps behind a young mother of similar age who attempted to shelter her baby from the blistering winds and fiery cinders when the unthinkable happened. A strong gust whisked the infant from her mother’s arms and swept her away. Stefanie and another woman helped the shaken mother to shelter, but the ordeal abruptly stripped Mom of the innocence of youth.

Once again, Stefanie would benefit from the tragic experience she witnessed. She became far more grounded, much more appreciative of family, and far more aware of the brevity and preciousness of life which would guide her toward marriage and raising a family. When the time to marry did come her selection would surprise her sisters and shock her father.

Slender with olive skin, waste-length, straight brunette hair, Stefanie could not have differed more in appearance from the muscular framed, fair skinned, wavy blond haired and blue eyed man she eventually chose to marry. It was not an easy union for her and LeRoy, one of seven children from a traditional Down East Yankee family. She had broken tradition and married outside her faith, and neither partner was readily accepted by the surviving ‘family monarch.’

Stefanie and LeRoy Eaton 1978.

It was not the best of times to start a family, because the world was in the grips of the “Great Depression” and America was about to engage in the worst war of modern times, “WWII.” When their children were born, the couple faced an entire set of new challenges. Their daughter, Christina, was left mentally challenged in early childhood from a severe case of whooping cough, and their son, a sickly two pound “preemie,” spent the better part of his first year of life in a hospital incubator. The couple never lost faith or drifted apart even though they would endure years of hardship and a decade of exorbitant medical expenditures.

As with most middle-class families of the era, discretionary money was non-existent. The Great Depression and World War II had affected every American family. Everyone, including my family, gladly sacrificed whatever was asked in order to support the war effort. My parents found happiness in the simple things that make life enjoyable. The family spent evenings in the kitchen discussing events of the day and Saturdays hosting neighborhood picnics, taking day trips to the mountains, or visiting the local beach or campground. Sunday was always set aside for family dinners with my mother’s sisters and nieces.

Mom was a caring, giving person who thoroughly enjoyed pleasing others. She never hesitated to help a stranger in need or a friend who asked for assistance. She filled in for Dad if he was too ill to park cars at the parking lot he managed, regardless of the time or weather. She would occasionally supplement Dad’s income, baking pies for several of our town’s upscale restaurants and worked at the local “Bess Eaton’s” franchise. Most of all, Mom loved to cook and bake for her family, friends and our church’s annual bazaar.

She was not one to fret about uncertainty when opening her home to others. When a half dozen of my classmates from New York showed up on our doorstep unexpectedly, without hesitation, she put them up for the weekend. When my girlfriend was snowed-in for three days during the blizzard of ‘78’ she was given free rein of our home.

Although Mom’s dream was to own her own home, this would not happen until her mid fifties because her first priority was providing the best possible education for her children. My parents spent over 60% of the family income educating their kids and spent the next 25 years residing in a 750 square foot rental apartment in New London. When Mom did build her dream home, it would stand as a testament to the non-conforming, free spirited pioneer and modern woman she continually sought to be.

In the summer of 1969, the family made a collective decision to design and build a home, a choice that most would have considered impractical and contrary to my parents’ best interest since Dad had lost his job, had no savings, been diagnosed with emphysema, and had recently taken a low paying position as a night watchman at a local college. But all of us agreed that life was short and should be enjoyed, and the best way to do so was by fulfilling the family’s dream of home ownership.

Mom and Dad cashed in their life insurance for a down payment, and, after being turned down several times for a mortgage, the family secured financing and started construction, doing much of the cosmetic work and most of the landscaping ourselves. When the house was completed, it was a testament to the determination and resilience of one family and the importance of family cohesiveness which we learned from our parents. With limited resources we had managed to design and construct a 3,000 sq. foot contemporary glass-front home with a great room that allowed Mom’s kitchen to be the focal point of family gatherings and conversation. The house boasted a solar heated indoor pool for exercise, and a mini disco-bar for entertaining. Although Dad would live to enjoy the home for only a decade, he did get to realize his American dream.

Dad’s illness and death took its toll on Mom who had helped him around the house and had carried his oxygen equipment when they occasionally ventured out. But it never changed her generous ways. Dad suffered a stroke at Easter time and was hospitalized for six weeks before passing, but Mom still managed to bake for the church and prepare pastries and Easter baskets for her family and friends. When Dad passed May 16, 1979, Stefanie suffered a mild heart attack the following day for she couldn’t imagine a life without her Roy. Life did continue and Mom survived dad by 15 years. Her life, however, was not the same because she never forgot her passion for her life partner and never sought the companionship of another man.

In 1989, upon the urging of our family, who felt the upkeep on her home was taking its toll on our aging mother, Stefanie and the family decided to launch another joint venture and build a home on Marco Island which was intended to be the family’s winter residence. Plans for a smaller, summer home on a lakefront parcel in Michigan were also on the drawing board. When the house was completed in July of 1990, the family traveled to Florida to inspect the home and purchase the furnishings, but intended to return to Connecticut to reside another year. Stefanie packed her favorite pillow and jokingly said she was going to stay. We knew better for she had no car, no friends, and little money. However, when it came time to fly home, she did indeed remain, a decision no one expected. Sadly, as with her first house, this one too, would not be a home without illness and tragedy. Six months after moving to Marco Island, Mom was diagnosed with cancer.

Mom was an idealist and a selfless, extremely spiritual woman who never wavered in her faith or her belief in her family and fellow ‘man,’ as attested by her calmness in major crises. When diagnosed with lymphoma, she turned to her teary eyed family and told us not to feel sorry for her, that she had lived a good life and that she intended to be around a little longer. When Hurricane Andrew hit Florida in 1993, we watched from an Orlando hotel room as the weatherman stood on the end of our street and told the world “these homes may not be here when the owners return.” Stefanie quietly reassured us that our home would be OK. When a snake got into our home with a window blind delivery, it was she who remained calm as the snake coiled beneath her feet. She reached to strike it with a bar used to secure our sliding door!

My wife Debbie and Mom.

Mom was also a pragmatist with a practical way of viewing and dealing with problems. “So life’s tough, get over it,” she would say during the times we needed to be strong. If we were overly concerned, she would tell us, “life’s short, don’t take it too seriously.” If she thought we weren’t making the most of an opportunity she would say, “you’re born, you live, and you die. We’re all here for only a short period of time, so make the most of it.” She followed her own philosophy. When she shattered her shoulder slipping on her bathroom floor, we were startled the next day to find a mop under her shoulder as she attempted to mop the kitchen floor.

The only trait that surpassed her sense of duty was her sense of humor. Mom knew when to add sorely needed levity to alleviate tension. When our 1949 black Ford was sideswiped by a reckless motorist as Dad was driving us to my aunts’ home for dinner, few would have found humor in the moment. But, not Mom, who was firmly holding a Boston cream pie in her lap at the time of impact. She inadvertently used it as a shield to avoid striking the windshield. After being assured no one was hurt, she wiped a finger full of cream from her pie covered face and asked Dad if he wanted a taste! When rooming with her family in Newport, Vermont, her wit did not fail her when we were forced to vacate the room in a snow storm when a gas line ruptured during a mild earthquake. Deb and I had just placed a quarter into our vibrating bed as the quake struck. While standing in the snow Mom turned and said to me, “that must have been quite a ride for a quarter.”

The comment that we most remember was one Stefanie made during the lowest point in our lives. Standing at her bedside trembling, as Deb and I waited to see if she would emerge from her coma during one of the last days of her life, Stefanie opened her eyes and immediately sensed the tension. Her humorous remark was the last ever made. “So how’s your sex life?” she asked jokingly. I guess that was the woman she wanted us to remember.

My two “free spirits.”

Ironically, Mom had somehow foreseen her final day. While dining at the Marriott Resort for what would be her final Thanksgiving in 1993, she suddenly went silent during a fluid conversation with Debbie. She asked if 1994 was a leap year. The family was taken by surprise and laughed for her behavior was uncharacteristic. We said we didn’t know, and the conversation continued. That Christmas we again dined at the Marriot, her favorite restaurant. Once again, in the middle of a humorous conversation, Stefanie went silent. For a second time she asked in a rather distant manner if 1994 was going to be a leap year. She again quickly changed her demeanor and joined us in laughter when we asked what difference it made. Stefanie passed away the last day of February, 1994.

Mom’s last day was surprisingly enlightening even though it was a most difficult day to endure. It was edifying because we were surprised to see the number of friends she had acquired in such a brief period of time who came to bid her a final farewell. It was the most difficult for the obvious reasons, but also because no one on the medical staff had told Mom of her prognosis before we brought her home with Hospice.

You see, only weeks before, I suffered a severe heart attack, and it was Stefanie at my bedside whom I asked for reassurance. “Of course you’re going to make it, my son,” was her reply. When the roles were reversed, it was Mom who sought reassurance when she asked the same question. It was the worst moment in my life for she squarely looked me in the eye and asked for the truth. “Three days they told me,” I replied. Her last response, “thanks, son, I love you.”

That afternoon the most remarkable woman I have ever known slipped from my life. Mom would always jokingly say “you’re going to miss me when I’m gone.” I don’t know if even she knew the void her passing would create, for the five foot, 103 pound, slight framed woman did indeed set a standard that those who knew and loved her would forever admire.

Gregarious, but reserved, idealistic, but practical, rational, but headstrong, conforming, but unconventional, Mom was the most humorous, selfless, generous, intuitive, creative and courageous woman I have ever met. I write of Stefanie, not because she was exceptionally different from other mothers, except to her family and friends, but because she depicts the very noble attributes that nearly all mothers possess, all that is necessary to be the glue that holds most families together.

LeRoy and Stefanie Eaton.

She was an exemplary, but not unique representative of the millions of mothers who live a life we often consider mundane and frequently take for granted. The mothers who possess the qualities we both intentionally and inadvertently seek in a companion to share our life, a partner to enjoy the good times and weather the hardships, a woman to bear and help raise our children, a mate to help manage our home and govern our finances, and a person who often far exceeds what we seek within ourselves.

Thomas Jefferson said, “The glow of one warm thought is worth more than money.” We must never forget that we are indeed blessed, because the heartfelt memories we have of the woman who gave us life are precious and irreplaceable. Like those who preceded me and others who will follow, I now understand what my mother felt as I sat by her side in the 1950’s while we watched “I Remember Mama.” Like Stefanie, I reflect on our past together with a heavy heart, but an abundance of warm thoughts for I, too, “Remember Mama.”

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val@coastalbreezenews.com 

Justin Grimm and Bryan Fluech. PHOTOS BY VAL SIMON/COASTAL BREEZE NEWS

Fortunately, there wasn’t a quiz at the end of the “Are you smarter than a stone crab?” program. The educational program was fun, informative and tasty too, thanks to Rookery Bay, the local Sea Grant Extension agent-Bryan Fluech and Grimm’s Stone Crab Company. The program offered an in-depth look at the Stone Crab claw industry and its economic impact on the State of Florida. The program started off at the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve and ended in Everglades City at the Grimm’s plant.

Bryan led a class of about 20 through a comprehensive look at stone crabs covering the biology of stone crabs: where do they live, how long do they live, what do they eat, when do they spawn, etc. The second portion focused on how the fishery works, the management of the stone crabs and the economical impact the industry has on the state of Florida. The third and final portion of the event was a field trip to Everglades City to Grimm’s to learn about the processing of the stone crabs.

Do you think it is legal to take BOTH claws of a stone crab? Most wonder how a crab would feed itself without claws. Overwhelmingly, the audience voted for a one claw rule. FALSE! Florida does allow a fisherman to take both claws. Only claws measuring a minimum of 2 ¾” are acceptable. If the claw is snapped off quickly and properly (not twisted or pulled) a diaphragm will seal the socket and it will not bleed out. Claws regenerate, however studies show only about 13% of stone crab claws harvested have been regenerated. An infield study conducted 10 years ago showed 75% of stone crabs will survive while missing one claw and 50% survive with both claws removed. Stone crabs are bottom feeders and are able to move and eat freely without claws.

Florida waters have 1.5 million crab traps. There are 72 commercial permits in Collier County alone. Monroe and Collier counties account for 52% of all stone crab landings representing an average of 600,000 pounds of claws with a dockside value of $5.5 million. Fl-Seafood.com indicates Florida fishermen catch more than 83 percent of the nation’s supply of grouper, pompano, mullet, stone crab, pink shrimp, spiny lobsters, and Spanish mackerel. Of that, 100% of spiny lobster and 99% of stone crab come from Florida.

After absorbing all the data, everyone would agree the most delectable part of the program was the opportunity to sample stone crab claws. Of course, mustard sauce complemented the offering, and blue crab claws were available for those wishing to compare taste and texture. The class was warned never to ice raw crab claws. They must be cooked first, then iced. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator, not under water.

Justin Grimm explains the processing plant operations.

Following the sampling of stone crab claws, the group headed to Everglades City to Grimm’s Stone Crab Claw Company. Justin Grimm met the group and explained, “the company is family owned and operated and you can find three generations at the plant on any given day. Grandmother, at 83 yrs. old, still comes in daily.” They have four employees and have been buying from the same boats since 1979. They only buy from these suppliers. This guarantees quality assurance.

The boats are individually owned and the crabbers operate as independent businesses. Of course, it is a highly regulated industry. “The second they hit the door we start to file the state trip ticket. The amount of crabs, does everything look normal, were they in any chemicals? The trip tickets are filed electronically with the state daily. At any point, the FWC can stop a boat and inspect it. They can walk into the building. They make sure the crabs are handled properly, check for any safety violations, confirm they are the right size. Everything has to be just right. We’ve done this for a long time so we have a pretty good relationship. They make the required two trips per year for inspection.”

The audience questioned the cost per pound. Factors included in the price per pound calculation include the availability, demand and the cost of fuel for the boats. Bryan commented, “In the bigger picture, regulations, environmental protection standards and even type of gear can weigh in on the cost the end consumer pays.” Would less regulation help? Not necessarily. Many of these requirements have been imposed to make things safe and ensure the continuity of the industry. As Justin said, “There’s a reason we do this. I would rather know I have to fill out all the paperwork and know everything is safe.” Justin said these factors are considered in the price and knowing the crabbers have to make a bit, that, too weighs in. “It’s a cultural thing, Grimm’s has worked with same boats. Many are handed down through the family. We’ve worked with three generations of their families, too.”

Someone in the audience mentioned some crabbers went on strike recently. “Not at Grimm’s,” Justin replied. The crabbers, on strike for nine days, worked for Joe’s Stone Crab located across the river at Grimm’s old plant. When asked if they got what they were seeking by going on strike, Justin said no.

The attendees were brought inside and watched as a circular wire bin with claws was dropped into a boiling vat of water to be cooked. The process is closely watched and timed. Once cooked, each claw is weighed. A forklift moves the bins. Soon another is placed in the vat to cook.

Claw tasting was a hit with the audience!

The program was three hours long, but many stayed to see a boat coming in just after 6:00PM. Undoubtedly, the $15.00 ticket price was a great value, especially considering each person had more than four claws to eat (and there wasn’t a quiz!). Bryan will hold the “Are you smarter than a stone crab?” program once more before the end of May. A similar program on shrimp will be scheduled soon.

Contact the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve for more information on the wide variety of classes, programs and outdoor excursions they offer. You can reach them at 239-417-6310, or find them online at rookerybay.org

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Bengoshi@comcast.net

Twenty years ago Heidi Saletko and her husband were clearing palm fronds from their yard for recycling. Heidi is an artist; her husband was clearly very perceptive. He suggested using the fronds for her painting. Voila! The Frond Zoo was born.

Heidi began using parts of five types of fronds to create animal masks. She began with an elephant, and expanded the menagerie to zebras, lions, cheetahs, panthers, gorillas, giraffes, hyenas, wolves, fish and just about any other wild animal we know. Aside from the fronds all she uses are a few staples and her paint.

On January 20th Heidi spent much of the day at Tommie Barfield Elementary School. She was invited by Principal Dr. Jory Westberry to explain and demonstrate her artistry to the young students. In the school’s cafeteria at 9:30AM, Heidi astounded students and faculty alike as she showed in brief moments how to create an animal mask. She started with a piece of frond, backed it with “monkey hair” from another frond, and cut out and stapled a small triangular segment for a nose. With very few deft brush strokes she completed a mask of a Florida panther in less than three minutes. It was an astounding performance with a delightful result. The kids were entranced and bombarded Heidi with good questions.

For years Heidi has been supplied with fronds by her neighbors. It’s a two-pronged enterprise: Heidi gets a good supply; the environment gets a good cleaning. At her home in Naples she is able to turn out an astonishing number of masks that she sells in the $100-$400 range. Her masks come in natural colors or fanciful ones, depending on buyer’s choice.

Several times Heidi has fashioned zebra masks and then painted, in mural fashion, the zebra’s body on a wall. The mask completes a full make-up of a zebra.

She has also turned out a couple of tall giraffes.

On Saturday, February 18th, the Frond Zoo is coming to the Marco Island Historical Museum from 11:00AM to 3:00PM. Admission is free and the Beach Dog’s Food Cart will be there. Laurie Wagor, Director of Museum Events, adds that there will be raffle prizes, face painting, outdoor demonstrations and more. There will also be a Tommie Barfield Elementary Art Awards Ceremony.

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The Florida Department of Transportation has recently finished installing the first Roadside Animal Detection System(RADS) in the state of Florida. The system, which identifies animal life near roadways, exists along a 1.3 stretch of road on US-41 which runs through Big Cypress National Preserve. By partnering with the Defenders of Wildlife as well as the U.S. Division of Fish and Wildlife, the Florida DOT hopes these signs will decrease vehicle/animal collisions, especially pertaining to the endangered Florida panther.

These signs will light up when an animal, 18 inches or taller is near the roadway. Drivers are urged to slow down and be alert when the lights are flashing.

Florida FWC estimates that there are only about 100 to 160 adult panthers left in the state. Male panthers, in general, will cover a territory of about 200-square miles and can be extremely aggressive to other males within their area. However, it is hard to find 200 miles of unobstructed land anywhere in the state of Florida due to human encroachment. Roadways such as US-41 and I-75 cut directly through the natural habitat of not only the Florida panther, but also black bears, deer, bobcats, coyotes and more.

According to Debbie Tower of the Florida DOT, “When SR-84 was reconstructed to become Alligator Alley, or I-75, in the early nineties, we added wildlife crossings underneath the highway. This has also been done on areas of SR-29 to prevent collisions.” The cost of these types of systems, however, is extremely expensive and was also met with some hostility when being considered as an option for US-41.

Defenders of Wildlife initially proposed that something must be done to lower the amount of collisions along US-41, especially in the 1.3 mile area which lies in Ochopee near Turner River. “Panthers often follow the rivers,” explains Elizabeth Fleming of Defenders of Wildlife. “Through research we have found that the area near Turner River also has a high density of female panthers and kittens.”

“We have certainly noticed panther activity in that area. Since 2004 to 2010, six panthers were killed on that stretch of road,” adds Ken Warren of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife. One, a five-month old kitten, was found dead less than a month after his mother had been struck along the same mile of road.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife and Defenders of Wildlife worked together to request a grant from the U.S. Transportation Enhancement Fund to develop a system that would work in this area. They received $650,000 for the project and through the Florida DOT a “design-build” project was proposed. Through this unique approach, the RADS option was chosen.

This innovative and less invasive option is also inexpensive compared to other ideas. Of the $650,000 granted, only $450,000 was used, putting $200,000 back into the Transportation Enhancement Fund.

This female panther was originally struck by a vehicle in 2004 along the 1.3 mile stretch of US- 41 that is now being monitored though RADS. She suffered a compound fracture to her rear leg, severe blood loss and damage to her teeth. She was taken to the University of Florida’s Veterinary School in Gainesville for surgery. Meanwhile, a search began for the panther’s two five-month old kittens that biologists knew she was rearing. Unfortunately, they were not able to find the kittens. Less than a month later, her male cub was struck and killed along the same 1.3 mile stretch. The female kitten was never found. Biologists assume that she perished as she would be too young to fend for herself. After ten months, the female panther made a full recovery and was released back into a remote area of the Big Cypress National Preserve. Three days later she was found here, once again, in the same area where she was originally struck. This time she didn’t survive. Biologists believe she was probably looking for her kittens.

The system consists of six solar-powered signs, three on either side of the road, that blink in tandem when an animal is near the road. Sensors set 18 inches off the ground monitor any animal movement and will cause the signs to light up for five minutes, alerting drivers to slow down. The LED lights are extremely bright as to properly alert drivers both during the day and at night.

The Roadside Animal Detection System will also serve as a learning tool for FWC, the Florida DOT and Defenders of Wildlife. “Funding is in place to begin monitoring activity more closely beginning later in the year,” Tower explains. “We will be monitoring the system for two years to get a much better idea of what kinds of animals are being seen and when.”

“We are excited for the potential for this new technology to teach us more about the panther population in the area,” adds Fleming of Defenders of Wildlife.

The sensors and flashing signs are useless, however, if drivers don’t do their part and slow down when they see the active signs. “When animals and cars tangle, it is dangerous for both ends,” Tower continues. “We hope these signs will protect wildlife and reduce deaths, certainly amongst the panther population, but we also want to protect human life.”

It is important to remember that much of US-41 between Naples and Miami is in protected land, such as the 1.3 mile area located in Big Cypress Preserve. This means that wildlife exists everywhere, not just within that specific area. Drivers are encouraged to keep the speed limit and always be aware of your surroundings. With everyone doing their part, it is possible for panthers and humans to live together safely.

To report panther threats, pets or livestock lost to a panther, or an injured or dead panther, call the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922). For more information on how to live safely with panthers, download the “Living with Panthers” brochure at www.FloridaPantherNet.org. The purchase of panther specialty license plates helps fund panther research and management. Visit www.buyaplate.com for more information.

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The Marco Island Fire Department is supporting one of their own with their annual hot dog and bratwurst stand at this year’s Mullet Festival in Goodland. Every year the proceeds to these sales go towards local organizations such as the YMCA or Tommie Barfield Elementary. This year, however, proceeds will be going to Jerry Adams, a Driver/Engineer who has served the City of Marco Island since 1989 and is currently fighting a very serious form of cancer.

Jerry with Lieutenant Governor Jeff Kottkamp.

To become a firefighter at the age of 39 is not easy, but that’s exactly what Jerry Adams did. A master carpenter by trade, he chose to join Marco Island’s bravest to better serve his community. He became an instant leader on the force. As fellow MIFD Captain Tom Bogan describes him: “one of Jerry’s tasks has always been to mentor the young firefighters who come in here. In the fire service we are extremely traditional. He is the type of man who never takes a short-cut and he always taught that to the young guys who came in.”

In 2006, Adams, a frequent marathon runner, was diagnosed with throat cancer even though he was never a cigarette smoker. After a year-long battle, he successfully beat the cancer and came back to full-time duty at the Marco Island Fire Department.

One year later, in 2007, Adams won the Marco Island Fire Rescue Foundation Fireman of the Year Award. This was the first year an award like this was given. Jerry received the highest of honors for many reasons. “Jerry is in every room of this Department,” explains Don Jones, Division Chief. “From the baseboards and crown molding to the towel racks in the bathrooms, he is constantly working on the station even during his down time.” Described as a family man, hard worker and a leader on the scene, Jerry truly deserved the award.

Since then, Adams has continued to work full-time at the MIFD until this past Thanksgiving when he was diagnosed with both pancreas and liver cancer. Almost immediately he and his wife, Kay, went to Shands Hospital in Gainesville to be treated. He is currently receiving a six-week treatment of radiation and chemotherapy as surgery is not currently an option given the size of the tumors.

Jerry is truly in a fight for his life, but with a positive attitude comes positive results. His most recent update confirmed that one of the tumors has already shrunk by about 25 percent.

Adams exits a medic unit after performing CPR on a man struck by lightning on the beach.

The Marco Island Fire Rescue Foundation, which began in 2006 in order to provide financial relief for Fire Rescue personnel and their families in times of injury and illness, has already donated $1,500 to Jerry and his family. They were given $1,000 to help pay for the hotel expense the family is incurring by staying in Gainesville for treatment. Their son, Sean, a medical student at Florida State University, was given a $500 gas card to be able to visit his parents. Jerry is also father to daughter, Katie, and grandfather to her two children, Charlie and Georgia.

Over twenty years ago, Jerry Adams helped to start the tradition of serving brats and hot dogs for a cause during the Mullet Festival at Stan’s. “He always had an open heart for all the charity events we did,” explains Bogan. “Whether it be the Mullet Festival, working with the YMCA, Tommie Barfield Elementary or the Taste of Marco, he always contributed 100 percent. He was always the motivator. Now it is time for us to be the motivators.”

The MIFD hopes that they will be able to contribute a significant amount to Jerry and his family after Mullet Festival weekend; January 27-29. There will also be a pancake breakfast held at the Fire Station on April 15 that will benefit the family. The Marco Island Fire Department and Fire Rescue Foundation plan to continue fundraising efforts for Jerry in the future.

Individual donations are also welcome. The MIFRF has set up an account at Mutual of Omaha Bank entitled Marco Island Fire Rescue Foundation Jerry Adams Cancer Fund. One may drop off a check made out to the above fund or even mail it in. Mutual of Omaha is located at 1770 San Marco Road, Marco Island, FL 34145.

To learn more contact the Marco Island Fire Department at 239-389-5040 or email MIFireRescuefoundation@aol.com

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County Commissioner Donna Fiala, who represents Marco Island and East Naples, was host for a group of nine residents who toured the state-of-the-art Emergency Services Center in Naples on January 17th. Thanks to Commissioner Fiala the group had an inside look at the facility and how emergency services are coordinated in the county.

Disaster relief units.

The Jim Mudd Emergency Services Center is named for the county manager who took a strong interest in building the county’s emergency response capabilities. The 11,000 square foot, four story building sits on 20 acres off State Road 951, close to Edison College. The building is situated on filled land to protect against flooding in the event of an otherwise crippling storm or surge. It is a $56 million dollar project with a portion paid by grants; and the facility joins together various elements of community protection functions that were formerly separated. It’s much more cost effective and responsive to public needs. The former facility, in the government complex on Tamiami Trail East was crowded, cramped and inefficient. The new Center opened in 2009.

Dan Summers and visitors.

The building was designed to withstand otherwise catastrophic events, and can withstand wind gusts up to 200 miles per hour, with complete protection for 30 seconds. It has a 175 foot tower that can handle winds up to 175 miles per hour, and the roof is saturated with antenna arrays to insure current and complete communication. Wall panels for the building were actually cast on-site, saving two million dollars in costs, and insuring correct fitting. There are two 2.5 megawatt generators, with 48 gallons of fuel to provide for 14 days of operation if all other power fails.

In a protected area under the building the county has staged Disaster Relief Units that are packed with commodities. There are also trailers that can be used for field operations in times of emergency. All of this means that resources can be deployed to the field in a very brief time span. The county even has the equivalent of the military’s “Meals Ready to Eat” that can be dispatched to the field if necessary. There’s also a continuous supply of bottled water.

It took nine years of planning and development to finish the facility. Tenants in the new building include the Sheriff’s 911 operation, East Naples Emergency Services, Data center, EMS Administration, EMS Supply Warehouse, Emergency Operation Center, Traffic Operations, EMS Department offices and Public Information. There’s also a Homeland Security Center.

Dan Summers, a veteran of many years in emergency operations, is Collier County’s Director of Emergency Services. Dan spent 19 years in North Carolina and worked through 19 emergency events, including numerous hurricanes. He is in charge of the building and acts to coordinate services with the Sheriff, Medical Department and others, including FEMA and Homeland Security.

Jim Mudd Emergency Services Center. SUBMITTED PHOTOS

In the facility the control center is a 50 foot by 70 foot room that contains ten giant television screens in the front of the room and two in the rear. It looks very much like a military control room depicted in a thousand-and-one films. Different channel displays bring up current information for operators at 24 computer stations. From the control center communications are maintained with all departments concerned with emergency situations. Above the main floor glassed-in offices can accommodate everyone from federal agency representatives to media contacts. Every communication function in the building has built-in redundancy to protect against failure.

A floor below the control center, the Sheriff maintains the county’s 911 call center. It, too, resembles a war room. 16 horseshoe consoles house multiple phone lines where incoming calls are handled and resources are dispatched. The center averages about 36,000 calls a month. All calls are recorded. Maps pinpoint the location of the caller or incident. Here, again, communication installations are redundant.

Collier County coordinates emergency service operations with other counties, and there’s a lot of cross-fertilization. Residents and visitors are well served by these superb facilities and staff.

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janem@coastalbreezenews.com 

The Clemmons family. SUBMITTED PHOTO

The Marco Island Marriott Resort hosted a very special lady and her two daughters for a long week-end of relaxation and star treatment from January 12- 15. Their names will not be found on a list of celebrities, or among a roster of CEO’s from Fortune 500 companies. However, Chiquita Clemmons and her daughters, Lateria and Kayci, were certainly treated like stars and received celebrity service at Marco Island’s beautiful Marriott Resort.

Chiquita and her family live near Atlanta, Georgia in the small town of Lithia Springs. Chiquita has been battling fourth stage colon cancer for more than two years. She had worsening symptoms for some time before she was able to consult a physician about her health.

Her 8 year old daughter, Kayci, was suffering from a rare disorder, Rasmussen’s Syndrome, which caused relentless seizures not controlled by medication. Surgery was performed to remove the left frontal and temporal lobes of Kayci’s brain.

The seizures stopped but the drastic nature of the surgery left impairments to her right arm and hand, loss of peripheral vision and developmental delays. Kayci requires a number of ongoing interventions including physical, speech, occupational and vision therapies.

Chiquita’s husband was unable to handle his daughter’s illness and prolonged recovery and left the family. Lateria, away at college, returned home and filled the challenging role of standing by and sustaining her mother and sister throughout the crisis.

In December, 2009, Chiquita finally sought help for her own health concerns. Tests revealed a tumor in the colon confirmed by more extensive tests. Lateria, then 21 and a senior in college, accompanied her mother to her first appointments and was hopeful that a solution would be found. Chiquita’s best friend took her to meet with the oncologist on December 22 while Lateria and Kayci shopped for a card and flowers for their mother in anticipation of a promising outcome.

The oncologist’s diagnosis was fourth stage colon cancer and his advice to Chiquita was to put her affairs in order. Chiquita declined and asked for aggressive treatment. She had two beautiful daughters to live for and was determined to remain in their lives as long as possible.

The family celebrated Christmas more quietly than usual. Lateria commented. “At first my mother’s illness was very difficult for me to process. My little sister still needed a lot of care and had to get to many therapy sessions. I did not return to school putting it beside me until decisions were made about my mother.”

Chemotherapy started as soon as the holidays were over. On January 4, 2010, Chiquita received a port and on January 6, she began chemotherapy treatments. She continues weekly treatments to this day.

Chiquita worked for The Westminster School, a job she loved but, because of the effects of chemotherapy, eventually she had to resign. Westminster, a private, Christian school, helped Chiquita navigate the unfamiliar world of entitlement programs and has maintained the family on their health care plan until they are eligible for a federal program. The family commented on the wonderful support they have received from both the school and Chiquita’s co-workers.

The family belongs to Destiny World Church and Chiquita’s deep faith and acceptance of her illness is humbling. There is no “why me” in her vocabulary, just “yes, Lord, I accept your will.” She remains independent but was so grateful in November, when a group from their church community moved the family “in an hour’s time!”

Before the Christmas holidays her oncologist asked her if there was a special wish or dream she had. Chiquita responded. “I would like to see the beach and show it to my daughters.” Her doctor sent a request to Jack & Jill Late Stage Cancer Foundation and Chiquita’s wish was granted.

The family was met at the airport and whisked to Marco Island. Chiquita and her daughters were welcomed by Susan Ryziw and Cathy Nelson, Executive Assistants to the General Manager of the Marco Island Marriott and escorted to a spacious suite where they discovered a welcome basket overflowing with amenities and gifts. They enjoyed sumptuous breakfasts at the Tropiks Café where Miss Judy saw to their every comfort. She was observed taking Kayci back to the buffet table to fill a generous tote bag with treats for snacking! All other meals were provided in the Marriott restaurants.

Chiquita and her daughters spent a Day of Beauty at the Marriott Spa and Lateria and Kayci received new hair styles from Jessica, stylist at South Beach Hair and Manager/Master Stylist at South Beach Hair at Marco Island Marriott Resort and Spa.

Jewelry by Laura at the Marriott provided certificates for the family to select lovely jewelry to remember their stay. On Friday evening, the Marriott arranged a chauffeur to take the ladies about the island to do some shopping for friends and family. Chiquita only wanted a gift for her oncologist who set the plan in motion that brought her family to Marco Island.

The highlight of their stay, of course, was the beautiful beach and the Gulf of Mexico. The cool temperatures caused high waves and the Gulf did not disappoint. Chiquita and Lateria commented on the courtesy and attention they received from the Marriott staff. Kayci was treated like a little princess and even wore a tiara for part of her stay!

The family faces the future with amazing faith and courage. Lateria plans to complete her education at Brenau University, Gainesville, Georgia next fall or in 2013. She is interested in broadcasting and mass communication.

Kayci will return to school and her many therapies to help her retrieve and maintain physical and developmental skills wherever possible. She is happy to be free of seizures and is a friendly, charming little girl.

Chiquita views the future with calm dignity. She said. “I have been strengthened by Kayci’s illness. My goal for the future? Just living. Every day is brand new, expect something new to happen and stay strong. Try to act the way you want to feel.”

The Marco Island Marriott was proud to participate in fulfilling Chiquita Clemmons’ wish. Through Spirit to Serve, the Marriott Corporation responds to local and worldwide organizations involved in service to their communities. Jack & Jill Late Stage Cancer Foundation was founded by Jon & Jill Albert and, as its name indicates, helps fulfill dreams for patients who have been diagnosed with late stage cancer. The foundation is located in Atlanta, Georgia.

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natalie@coastalbreezenews.com 

The League is as beautiful on the outside as the art that it features on the inside. PHOTOS BY NATALIE STROM/COASTAL BREEZE NEWS

The Marco Island Center for the Arts, Home of the Art League is hosting a number of upcoming events that are not to be missed. In the coming weeks, the 501(c)3 non-profit organization will be collaborating with different local organizations for some fun-filled fundraising activities.

The Center for the Arts is currently featuring an exhibit in their Lauritzen and Rush Galleries entitled “Off the Wall/On the Wall,” a collection of different fiber works by the Maine Craft Guild Fiber Artists. Materials used range from recycled children’s books to quilting materials to “Shibori,” a Japanese form of embellishing textiles by shaping cloth and securing it before dying it. These works are anything but ordinary as some come in the three-dimensional variety while others are actually wearable.

This “jacket” by Susan Perrine is made of recycled children’s books and cotton.

The Calusa Garden Club will be collaborating with the “Off the Wall/On the Wall” collection for the weekend of February 3rd through the 5th. Twenty-five members of the club will choose a piece from the fiber-based collection and will then create a floral arrangement based on their interpretation of it. Each floral piece will be placed next to the art that inspired its creation. They will be on display beginning on Friday, February 3rd at the Center for the Arts’ free reception, held from 4:00 until 6:00PM.

The reception will also feature photographic prints of “Lorenzo the Cat” by Joann Biondi. Lorenzo is Biondi’s cat who likes to wear clothes and be photographed in them. To see some of Lorenzo, visit www.lorenzothecat.com. Biondi will be at the event and is donating a print to be raffled off at the reception. Proceeds from the raffle will go to “For the Love of Cats,” a Marco Island-based, non-kill cat rescue foundation.

While the reception will be held on Friday evening, all of the above will be on display from 10:00AM to 4:00PM both Saturday and Sunday.

This piece by Kathleen Goddu features Shibori- style embellishing and will be paired with a floral piece from the Calusa Garden Club.

Next up: “Wet Paint Live!” This event/ auction, in its 5th consecutive year, will be held on Thursday, February 9. The Marco Island Area Chamber of Commerce, Marco Island Foundation for the Arts(MIFA), Leadership Marco and the Marco Island Center for the Arts all come together on this day to raise money for their individual high school scholarship funds.

Beginning at 9:00AM, mostly local artists will set out for different areas of Marco, Isles of Capri and Goodland to begin painting a brand new piece. They must finish their works, paint still wet on the canvas, by 3:00PM, when they are promptly brought to the Center for the Arts. Here they are put on display for the auction to follow. Viewing of the art is from 5:30 to 6:45PM and the live auction begins at 7:00PM.

Maps of artists’ locations will be available a week before the event at the Marco Island Chamber of Commerce as well as The Art League. Over twenty artists are scheduled to take part. All are encouraged to pick up a map and visit the artists as they paint.

Tickets to the live auction are $35 per person. This includes a food buffet and beer/wine cash bar. Chris Lombardo of Woodward, Pires & Lombardo, P.A. will be the auctioneer, volunteering his time to host the event. Many other local businesses also support the event through monetary donations.

The activities for The Marco Island Center for the Arts certainly don’t end here. Every month, new art displays in both galleries are available for viewing. Free evening receptions, such as the upcoming February 3 event are held regularly. They also feature a beautiful gift shop and many, many classes for the beginning artist all the way to the advanced.

To find out more about The Marco Island Center for the Arts, Home of the Art League, visit them at 1010 Winterberry Drive, call them at 239-394-4221 or visit their website at marcoislandart.org 

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natalie@coastalbreezenews.com 

Mandolin.

The 5th annual Jammin’ in the Hammock Bluegrass Festival is fast approaching. The event, which will host six different bluegrass bands, will be held on Saturday, February 11, from 10:00AM to 6:00PM and Sunday, February 12, from 9:30AM to 6:00PM, at Collier-Seminole State Park.

Sponsored by the Friends of Collier- Seminole State Park, a Citizens Support Organization(CSO), all proceeds from the festival will benefit the park. Admission to the event is $15 per day or $25 for both days. Admittance is free to children 13 and under as long as they are accompanied by a paying adult. Attendees are also encouraged to camp at the park overnight. Dry camp spots are $15 per night and are offered on a first come, first serve basis. Those with RVs may purchase a spot with electric and water for $24.20 per night but must make reservations ahead of time. To reserve your spot at Collier-Seminole Park call Reserve America at 1-800-326-3521.

Jammin’ in the Hammock is one of the most popular fund-raising events within the state of Florida’s Parks system. It has become so well-known that it was the 2010 recipient of the State’s Award for Outstanding Special Events.

Be sure to bring your own chairs to the Festival and remember to visit the vendors! SUBMITTED PHOTOS

This year’s festival should prove to be just as special. Six bluegrass bands will take the stage both days to entertain with their banjos, guitars, fiddles and mandolins that define this type of folk music. The Wilson Family Band, set to perform at the festival, are a classic example of bluegrass. The family of four boasts 20-year old son, Clint, on vocals, banjo, mandolin and guitar and daughter, Katie, a ninth-grader proficient in the fiddle. Mom, Melissa, plays the mandolin while dad, Robert, lends a hand at lead vocals and guitar. Bruce Sheridan, a fifth member of the band plays the stand-up bass, rounding out the bluegrass sound the Georgia-based band is known for.

Local sensations, The Wholetones, will be performing as well. The band, according to their website, “formed in 2007 when Alex Dorris and Taylor Freydberg met at a local bluegrass jam in South Florida.” They later added two more members, Russell Depa on upright bass and Mayo Coates on drums. Freydberg leads on vocals and guitar while Dorris also sings and plays a variety of instruments such as the banjo and cello. Their sound is extremely unique, combining bluegrass with folk, jazz and metal, which easily captivates any audience.

Other acts to perform will be The Sawgrass Drifters, Tomorrow’s News, Front Line and Kristi Morris and Jeff Kellogg.

There will be a large variety of vendors at the event. Food and arts and crafts will be available for purchase. The Friends of Collier-Seminole Park will hold a 50/50 raffle each day along with other prize drawings throughout the festival.

Local non-profit organizations will be setting up informational booths during the festival as well. Rookery Bay National Estuarine Reserve, Fakahatchee Strand Preserve and Big Cypress National Preserve will teach the importance of conservation throughout the weekend.

Bill and Lynn Hibbs will once again lend their talents to the festival. Bill, a World War II veteran, makes beautiful walking sticks out of Melaleuca tree wood, even though he is legally blind. His wife, Lynn, and daughter, Kathy, help him with every step of the process. Jackie Sture then adds a unique look to the walking sticks with her beautiful wood-burning technique. Watch as they transform the invasive Melaleuca tree into a useful tool. Purchase one and know that all of the proceeds for these one-of-a-kind walking sticks will go right back to Collier-Seminole Park.

While at the park for their annual event, visitors can view the last existing Bay City Walking Dredge, a National Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark. The dredge was used to build the Tamiami Trail which connected the east and west coasts of Florida in the 1920s.

Experience the phenomenon that is bluegrass music in one of the largest mangrove swamps in the world. Take a stroll down their recently rebuilt boardwalk and see first-hand where the proceeds to this funky festival will lead you.

Collier-Seminole State Park is located at 20200 E. Tamiami Trail, Naples, FL. For more information on the Jammin’ in the Hammock Bluegrass Festival, contact the park at 239-394-3397.

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On January 9th at Konrad’s, according to tradition and in due order, The Sailing Association of Marco Island (SAMI) observed the 42nd change of watch.

Emcee, Don Mills, a former Commodore, noted the language of the watch and changing watch is ancient. For guard duty over a city or a nautical vessel, the day/night cycle was divided into several periods called a watch. The people on duty were also called the watch. The practice and language are used today by the military, by ocean going vessels, and by yacht and sailing clubs.

The officers of yacht and sailing clubs are called the watch and each year the election of new officers is called changing the watch. The change of watch is sometimes very solemn, but more often a time for a party.

SAMI’s change of watch began with an hour of eating hors d’oeuvres, drinking whatever and telling old sailor’s tales. During tale telling the incoming Commodore, Dave Dumas, waxed serious regarding his goals for 2012.

“Here we are on this beautiful body of water and it’s such a shame that so few people really go out and enjoy it.” He spoke of younger people with families who have come to this area for work, noting that he’d like somehow to connect with them and help them experience sailing here.

After supper Don Mills opened the change of watch ceremony and chose not to roast the outgoing Commodore, Barbara Fleischer, as he has done in previous years. He also noted that he would not do any music. The whole SAMI group applauded. The more serious business of the club included the traditional exchange of Commodore and other officers’ flags and stars from the 2011 bridge to the 2012.

In passing the responsibility of Commodore from herself to Commodore Sumas, Barbara Fleischer said, “Holding a position on this bridge is best accomplished as a team effort,” a comment that served as a thank you to the whole club and a goal for the coming year.

The 2012 SAMI officers are Dave Dumas, Commodore, MaryLee Cale, Vice Commodore, John Weston, Rear Commodore, John Harkless, Fleet Captain, Neva Nolan, Secretary, and Nancy Meyer, Treasurer.

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Joanne.tailele@gmail.com 

Marco Writer’s Group welcomes Leon Hesser, author of The Man Who Fed The World. 

Talent abounds in Collier County. On Wednesday, January 11th, the Marco Writer’s Group had the privilege of meeting Leon Hesser and his beautiful wife, Florence. The couple, married since 1946, are local residents of Naples, born in the farm country of Indiana and self-proclaimed vagabonds. They’ve led a most interesting life all over the world. Hesser has published four books and written and co-published them all after turning seventy five years of age.

Hesser’s non-fiction books follow the old adage, “write what you know”. His first, Taming of the Wilderness, is the history of his family in 19th century America and their co-existence with the American Indians. His second book was Nurture the Heart and Feed the World. The back cover states, “The book is part storybook romance, part how-to manual and part good old American initiative and can-do success story, all told with the very real, dramatic and touching life story of the Hessers.”

In 2006, Hesser published The Man Who Fed The World, the biography of his close friend and colleague, Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Norman Borlaug. Borlaug has been noted as having developed a high-yielding wheat that took three countries, Mexico, India and Pakistan from the edge of starvation to self-sufficient production of food within a few short years. That wasn’t the end, as Borlaug extended his hand into Africa to “feed the world”. Hesser’s first-hand account of this amazing journey will inspire and delight you. In 2008, Hesser documented his personal trials in the Army in World War II; and book number four, Zig Zag Pass: Love and War, was born. He answered Uncle Sam’s call at eighteen, shared barracks with Hugh Heffner, and fought the Japanese in the Pacific. Hesser’s most recent work is co-published with Helen Bartz of Naples. It is named The Exceptionally Gifted Child, and explores the mind and emotions of extremely gifted children.

Authors Leon and Florence Hesser. PHOTO BY JOANNE TAILELE/COASTAL BREEZE NEWS

The Hessers pursued their higher education later in life. Leon earned his Ph. D. in Agriculture Economics at Purdue, while Florence earned her Ph.D. in education. Florence educated a variety of high profile students including a president and princess, and accepted the job of setting up a reading center in Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. At eighty six, Leon is still working and runs an export business, while Florence owns a publishing company, Bavender Press, in Naples.

The Marco Writer’s Group continues to grow. 24 members and guests attended the meeting. All were inspired by the Hessers, and a few had the opportunity to share pieces of their work with the group. Networking is the essence of the assembly of writers, and each month they come away with a little more knowledge and a lot more confidence to pursue their dreams as writers. A wonderful mix of accomplished authors and fresh new talent all bring something different to the table. The next meeting will be Wednesday, Feb. 8th at the Fifth Third Bank on Elkcam Circle at 5:30 PM The guest speaker will be Ms. Terry Helwig, author of Moonlight on Linoleum: A Daughter’s Memoir. The meeting is open to anyone fascinated with the written word.

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Seasonal residents and visitors may look at hockey in Florida like a bobsled team in Jamaica, but just as the bobsledders, the Florida Everblades are great entertainment! Maybe it’s the energy of the crowd; maybe it’s the excitement of a fight on the ice… but it’s definitely edge of your seat excitement.

It begins when the players hit the ice through a curtain of machine-generated fog accompanied by strobe “lightning” and the roar of the crowd. The buzzer sounds, and skaters are flying up and down the ice. They change offensive and defensive lines every minute or so because of the sheer physical effort required to skate so hard and so fast.

It doesn’t take much to start a fight. A shoulder here, a well placed shove there, a stick in the right place and soon, gloves and helmets come off and fists started flying. Refs stand by for a few minutes, but then toss the fighters into the penalty box with a five minute penalty. Overhead screens replay the action blow-by-blow. The crowd loves it. Hockey’s not for sissies!

During a recent game against the Chicago Express, the Blades showed their dominance early on, scoring a goal within minutes into the first period. Heading into the third period, it was 3-2. Halfway through the period, the Blades appeared to be losing steam even though they had clearly outplayed the Express. Several shots at the goal by the Blades were stopped short. The confidence of the Chicago Express team was building. In the final minutes of the game, the Express pulled their goalie to set up an advantage in the attacking end. They were making a run at the Blades with every weapon they had in trying to tie the game and go into overtime. THAT was their mistake! Out- manned, the Blades’, Brayden Irwin, made a shot from half way down the ice, straight into the net! Final score: 4-2 Blades.

Although the Blades went on to win the next night for three straight games against the Express, they lost to Gwinnett the following week. After a slow start the Everblades have been playing good hockey and have an excellent chance of getting into the playoffs. With sixteen more home games to play at Germain Arena before the end of March, there are plenty of tickets to be had. Check Floridaeverblades.com for tickets and special offers.

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The newly restored Holocaust Torah is raised by Ben Federman, assisted by Rabbi Zaklos, left, and watched by Sam Savage and Ellen Goldman Savage.

As Chabad Jewish Center celebrated the grand opening of its doors with modest pomp and ceremony on Sunday, January 15, strains of the famous Fields of Dreams quote, “If you build it they will come” reechoed throughout the afternoon. Over the past year, the recently acquired property at 1789 Mandarin Road has slowly been transformed into a vibrant facility, a blossoming preschool for the arts, an active summer day camp for the children, a Hebrew school, and an adult learning center. What is even more miraculous, is that most of the labor was undertaken by friends and members of the community. With Phase I completed and Phase II yet to come, help is still needed to continue the good work.

Friends and supporters from Naples and Marco Island numbering in the high hundreds, well wishers, municipal, county, and even state politicians in the person of Senator Garrett Richter and his wife Diane and Florida Governor Rick Scott and his wife Ann participated in the dedication festivities.

It takes optimism to make dreams happen, and as many of the speakers commented, the history of the Jewish people has always been to strive for optimism even in times of terrible adversity.

Rabbi Fishel Zaklos, holds the mezuzah he is about to affix to the doorpost of the newly dedicated Chabad Center, during the ribbon cutting ceremony.

MC Bob Harden, Naples radio personality introduced Rabbi Fishel Zaklos and his wife Ettie, reminding everyone that eight years ago when the Rabbi arrived in Naples with his wife and eight-month old son, he knew very few people and religious services held at his house were attended by one or two people. Now, he and his wife have four children and almost 1,000 people attended the Chabad outdoor Chanukah celebration in the Village at Venetian Bay last month. As Chabad slowly outgrew every facility over the years, members and benefactors finally united to purchase and renovate this building.

Naples Mayor Bill Barnett and Collier County Commissioner Jim Coletta each presented the Rabbi with proclamations from the City of Naples and Collier County respectively, declaring January 15, 2012 Chabad of Naples Day. They recognized the fine work of the growing Chabad organization and its contributions within the community during its first phase, and wished it well as it begins phase two of growth.

Florida Governor Rick Scott said that Chabad is well placed in Naples, FL - in a state where dreams come true. He wished them success in their future endeavors.

Dr. Art Seigel, Chabad Center President welcomed the crowd and told of acquiring the special Torah that had been completed in the early 1900s and donated to Chabad so that it would be in constant use.  Two children from the Hebrew School, Zach Schiller and Jaime Trop spoke about how their lives were enriched by their education there.

As the young Rabbi enthusiastically addressed the crowd of well-wishers his warmth, humor, and sincerity were evident. He too emphasized the comparison to the Kevin Costner movie Field of Dreams — “build it and they will come”. He jokingly admitted that with his slight build and dark beard and spectacles he is often mistaken for Costner whenever he goes to the supermarket.  He selflessly attributed his success to his wife, partner and best friend Ettie, as well as to God, and his long list of supporters and benefactors, and dedicated staff at the Center.

Rabbi Zaklos grew up in Oak Park, Michigan. One of eight children, he said his parents encouraged him to follow “a life of passion and goodness” and do what he loved, rather than insist he follow in his Rabbi father’s footsteps. His education and subsequent rabbinic training took him all over the world, and finally led him and his young wife to Naples where they were determined to build their dream.

Ben Federman kisses the newly restored Holocaust Torah.

One might wonder about the success of Chabad, and what exactly attracts so many people of all ages and different intensities of belief to worship there.  Each congregant seems to have a different response, but it all comes back to this: a feeling of welcome, warmth, sincerity, acceptance, and a desire for Jewish education. Rabbi Zaklos himself has said, he presents a ‘smorgasbord of religious thought’ and people are free to choose for themselves. He also recognizes that these trying times seem to encourage many people to return to their religious roots. Chabad services are given in both Hebrew and English, and explained in English. At the end of each Saturday morning Shabbat service, Rabbi Zaklos wishes each person by name, a “Good Shabbos”, a feat that astounds most people, especially when there are more than 100 people in attendance.

Rebbitzin Ettie Zaklos also spoke of fulfilling the dream, seeing the state-of-the-art preschool open five months ago to offer the best education possible for the children.

Governor Scott said Florida is the state where dreams come true, and he wished Chabad success both with its first step and for its future endeavors.  Scott recently visited Israel and met with dignitaries there, he said, and in honor of “keeping the light” of learning and knowledge of different faiths, Rabbi Zaklos presented him with a Menorah (candelabra).

Left to right, Ann Scott, Governor Rick Scott, Rabbi Fishel Zaklos, Rebbitzin Ettie Zaklos during the Chabad dedication ceremony.

The tiny tots from the PreSchool School of the Arts serenaded the audience with several songs, and then the children from the Hebrew School participated in a very touching ceremony.  Sam Savage and Ellen Goldman Savage, and Benyamin and Rachel Federman presented the synagogue with a beautifully restored Sefer Torah, that had been hidden underground in Poland during World War II,  brought to the United States and used in two Long Island congregations. During the presentation ceremony, the Torah was held high by Ben Federman, received its mantel, and then the children came forward to “kiss the Torah”.

As the ceremony concluded, everyone gathered at the front door of the building to witness the cutting of the ribbon and the placing of the mezuzah, a parchment scroll within a container, on the right hand doorpost of a Jewish home to signify the connection to God, his protection, and a Jewish heritage.

Collier County Commissioner Jim Coletta, left, and Naples Mayor Bill Barnett each present the Chabad Center with proclamations from the County and the City respectively, declaring January 15, 2012 Chabad Day and honoring Chabad’s contributions to the community.

The Center’s campus was then opened to the public for tours, entertainment and games for the children,  and refreshments.

As many of the dignitaries said, it was a day of fulfilling dreams for the community  and as such, creating a much more culturally rich environment for its residents.

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