In honor of the Second Annual National Everglades Day, April 6th, Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (RBNERR) was ready to throw a party. Just last year the date was chosen as it is the birthday of Marjorie Stoneman Douglas, a champion of the Everglades, known best for her book, “The Everglades: River of Grass.” She was at the forefront of the fight towards redefining the Everglades as a treasured river rather than a useless swamp.

The Picayune Strand – once slated to be Golden Gate Estates East – is visible in the top right where canals in grid shape are easily identifiable. This is the area that will be reclaimed to wilderness and should help maintain regular salinity in nearby estuaries.

Much has been learned about “The River of Grass” since Douglas wrote the book in 1947, but the devastation to the Everglades had already begun. As people are beginning to understand the need for proper water flow throughout the Everglades and Florida as a whole, steps are constantly being taken to protect what is left of the anything but useless swamp.

It can be assumed that what took place at RBNERR on the Second Annual National Everglades Day would have certainly pleased Ms. Douglas. The public celebration that had been initially planned turned into an intimate gathering of some of the most influential law makers and heads of state and conservation societies along with a number of concerned citizens. All were there to not only recognize the special day, but to discuss the restoration of the Everglades, especially the Southwest portion.

Among the guest speakers of the day were Gary Lytton, Director of RBNERR, Florida Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart of District 25, Zach Zampella, Regional Director for Senator Marco Rubio, Collier County Commissioner Donna Fiala of District 1, Lisa Koehler, Administrator for the Big Cypress Basin, SFWMD, Brad Cornell of the Audubon of Florida and Captain Will Geraghty, a charter fisherman in Naples.

Brad Cornell led the day, introducing speakers such as Donna Fiala who Cornell described as, “one of the first leaders in Collier County to recognize the importance of participating in the Gulf Restore Act.”

Commissioner Fiala speaks as RBNERR Director Gary Lytton (left) and Florida Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart listen.

Ms. Fiala briefly spoke on her memories, recalling Rookery Bay when her children were young; bringing them out to see the birds and the habitat. “Of course it looks much different today, but this is a very special place for me,” she stated.

Lisa Koehler spoke next with some interesting words on the work going on in the western Everglades. In particular, Koehler discussed the work going on in Picayune Strand. Once slated to be “East Golden Gate Estates,” canals were dug and roads put in, but the development never took place. Since the 1960’s the land has been forever altered, misdirecting the natural flow of water through the Everglades. Lisa discussed a number of other projects in the works for the Big Cypress Basin, all which would consist of redirecting to balance the salinity of the many bays within our areas.

To understand more of the science behind the question of the importance of managing where and how fresh meets salt water in the area was Water Quality Program Manager Christina Panko Graff of RBNERR. After the speeches, all made their way out to the boardwalk where Panko Graff gave a demonstration on water salinity.

Christina Panko Graff describes RBNERR’s water testing within its estuaries.

“One of our main research projects is to study how canals and other water control structures that have been put in place due to urban development have effected the amount of freshwater that comes into our estuaries as well as when it comes into the estuaries. Because estuaries are where fresh and salt water meet, we can study this question pretty easily by monitoring how salty is the estuary.”

Using equipment that collects real-time data, RBNERR monitors a number of its estuarine bays to attempt to understand how and where the fresh water needs to flow.

“What our research has found is that in this Picayune Strand area and sort of below it, we have found sort of a “Goldilocks” effect where in this estuary here it’s getting too much fresh water at the wrong time, where this one is not getting enough at all, but this one here is ‘just right,’” explained Panko Graff, pointing to the specific locations on the map.

The Picayune Strand project should effect water flow to the areas Panko Graff explained which means that, “our data is going to be critical in determining the success of this large-scale restoration project.”

This one project alone demonstrates the necessity for the local, state and federal governments, private organizations, companies, land managers and fisheries to come together and work as one for the sake of the Everglades. The Picayune, the estuaries, the sawgrass, mangrove trees and big cypress knees are all a part of a master plan that once flowed and moved together.

And on April 6th, National Everglades Day, the thought and spirit of saving the Glades was alive, flowing between the people in the room like a tidal surge, giving hope to the thought that this once perfect treasure, now so damaged, may one day be healthy again.

Lily and Amy climbing Margood’s big tree.

What could be more fun than eating hot dogs and hamburgers, listening to music and playing games with neighbors and friends on a beautiful day?

The Goodland Civic Association Board of Directors decided absolutely nothing could be more fun for us Goodlanders than to have a “Spring Fling” – complete with all of the above. In other words, we wanted to have a FREE Islander Appreciation Day for residents of Goodland. We wanted everyone to come out, take it slow or shake things up, and just get to know their neighbors a little better. Why not?

Consequently, with the help of Nancy Olson, Regional Director for Collier County Parks and Recreation, we chose our new Margood Harbor Park as the venue and went full steam ahead with big plans.

So, what exactly happened at this Spring Fling? First of all, grills, tables, chairs, door prizes, hot dogs, hamburgers, side dishes, desserts, sodas and coolers arrived along with an amazing volunteer set-up crew. Before you knew it, the grills were hot, cooks were grilling and folks began arriving with smiles on their faces and enthusiasm in their hearts. Ready to eat!

All the while, Dieter’s Blues Machine entertained the crowd with great music and some people even took the opportunity to dance right along with them. Wow! That was fun! We surely do thank Dieter!

Natalie and Carolyn dressed
Goodland style!!

Bocci ball, horseshoes and a very old and large tree provided fun for kids and adults alike. I just loved seeing Lily Tessaarzik and her friend Amy climbing the tree. It reminded me of the good old days when kids had the freedom to play outside and be safe and satisfied. It was like an old fashioned picnic.

We even had free raffle tickets to give away. Can you imagine that? It was so much fun and almost everyone went home with a door prize! Whoever heard of free raffle tickets and so many prizes? Not me. Not until that day anyway.

Greg Bello, President of the GCA, spearheaded this project and I have a strong feeling it will be repeated next year. He did a wonderful job and the rest of the new GCA board volunteered their time too. Serving on the board are Marziano Gizzi, Vice President; Barry Gwinn, Secretary; Jim Inglis, Treasurer; Natalie Strom, Jay McMillen, Noreen Seegers, Joanie Fuller and Kasey Knoebel. Everyone helped and kudos to all.

Yup, this Spring Fling event was certainly the way life should be – an old fashioned picnic in a beautiful and cozy park with lots of good food and good friends simply enjoying the day. One person even remarked, “It was the most fun event we have ever had.”

Dieter’s Blue’s Machine.

About The Author

Joanie Fuller, originally from Atlanta, lived in Naples for eleven years before moving to Goodland in 2007. She is a past President of the Goodland Civic Association and is now serving on Commissioner Donna Fiala’s Islands Advisory Committee.

The opening wine and cheese reception, which is free and open to the public, will be held on Thursday April 4, 2013 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Marco Island Historical Museum. Live entertainment provided by J-Robert.

The tiny island of Goodland, Florida, has been a special source of inspiration for local award-winning oil-painter Tara O’Neill for many years. Born the ninth of ten robust children to an Irish immigrant father and grammatically fussy mother, art gave Tara a private deliverance from chaos, and a voice to be heard over bedlam. The tropical palette of her childhood continues to significantly affect Tara’s work. South Florida: A Villager’s View relates her most intimate views, current and historic, of a working fishing village afloat with brilliant flora and a range of feathered-fauna; where old-growth trees dwarf candy-colored cottages, where docks serve as driveways, and the backyard is the 10,000 Islands.

Located on historic Marco Island, just sixteen miles South of Naples, the new Museum explores Southwest Florida’s Calusa Indians and brings this vanished civilization to life through its displays. Temporary and traveling exhibits trace the settlement of this subtropical island paradise from its early pioneer roots as a fishing village, pineapple plantation and clam cannery, through its explosive growth and development in the 1960s.

For more information about the Marco Island Historical Museum’s South Florida: A Villager’s View by Tara O’Neill, please contact the museum at 239-642-1440 or visit www.colliermuseums.com.

A special thanks to photographer Celeste Navara. Her pictures tell the story of what was truly a beautiful day of art and music, to – literally – say the very least.

About The Author

Natalie Strom has lived in Goodland for over two years and has worked in Goodland on and off for more than five years. She is a graduate of the University of Iowa and is also a former Buzzard Queen of Stan’s Idle Hour in Goodland. email: natalie@coastalbreezenews.com

What began as a bubble over the heads of 12 artists and lovers of art in Goodland only six months ago has become a reality in the form of the Harbor Arts & Music Festival. Proceeds from the festival will go towards preserving the arts in Goodland along with preserving the four historic cottages in the park that are in desperate need of repair. In a joint effort with Collier County Parks and Recreation, the GAA hopes to fix up these cottages and utilize them for the arts in many forms. The free event takes place from 10 AM until 4 PM at the park located at 321 Pear Tree Avenue in Goodland.

The community has rallied around the idea of preserving the historic cottages with many local businesses chipping in for an amazing set of raffle “lots.” Festival attendees may purchase tickets and drop them in an envelope in front of the “lot” of their choosing. Each raffle “lot” will feature multiple items along with a special piece of art from a member of the Goodland Arts Alliance. Myriad restaurant gift certificates, sunset cruises, chiropractic visits, cash gift cards and much, much more will make up portions of each raffle “lot.” Winners need not be present at time of drawing. A 50/50 raffle will also take place. Music begins at 10 AM and runs throughout the day. Many famous musicians within the area will be performing including Ordinary Man & Friends, J.Robert and Martin, Raiford Starke, Jim and Merrill Allen, Ryan Darling and Jeff Fessenden.

Local and regional fine artists include Karen Swanker, Tara O’Neill, Peter Sottong, Kat Nimtz Rinaldo, Popo Flanigan, Carolyn Burger, Mila Bridger, Jim Freeman, Lisa Estrada, Joyce Hester Laeser, Mohndera Gezall, Esau Rodriguez, Linda VanMeter, Judy Wittwer, Kimberly McCarty, Robin Denman, Lee Horton, Donald Sunshine, Sandy Howe, Barry Howe, J.J. Stinchcomb, Darren Clack, Karin Villaromen, Donald Pecora and Gene Mandarino.

Photography, oil on canvas, watercolor paintings, pottery, shell art, kiln formed glass, decorative streamers, clothing, handmade tide clocks, clay jewelry, concrete jewelry, bath products and mixed media will all be represented at the festival by these amazing artists.

Sponsors for the Harbor Arts & Music Festival are Collier County Parks and Recreation, Florida Water and Land Legacy, Dreamlander Tours, CJ’s on the Bay, Mutual of Omaha Bank, Beautiful Streamers, EmbroidMe, LifeStrength Chiropractic and the Naples Botanical Garden.

Calusa Indian Ceremonial Mask.

These Calusas were fishermen who lived on the waterways of Southwest Florida for years. They died out in the late 1700 hundreds due to disease brought by the Europeans and invading enemy tribes. Incidentally, the Spanish explorers found these Indians to be very unfriendly and I think we would have too! Just look at one of their ceremonial masks. Isn’t that enough to scare you?

They left their mark because they used shells for tools, utensils, jewelry and shrine ornaments. They discarded leftovers into huge heaps which became shell mounds and to this day one can still find some artifacts from that long ago civilization.

Let’s move on to some modern day facts: When the Fire Department moved to Marco Island, the Goodlanders acquired the building and over time they have renovated, cleaned, repaired and decorated it. It is now used for Goodland Civic Association meetings and various other functions throughout the year. Many residents of Goodland were involved in bringing the building back to the point where we could use it. This happened primarily before I came to Goodland, but I know it was a lot of work and many hours were spent putting in air conditioning, the kitchen and bath and just making it a usable space for all to enjoy. In addition, some of our resident artists enthusiastically recreated some Calusa artifacts to add a unique cultural atmosphere to our Community Center.

Key Marco Cat Reproduction.

Hanging on the walls are several hand painted tribal masks and we even have a Key Marco Cat! Ours is quite big, but the original, likely carved by the Calusa Indians, is a six-inch high wooden sculpture made from Florida Buttonwood. It is housed in the Smithsonian in Washington D.C. and is thought to have been a spiritual icon of the Calusa tribe.

Now for a crazy fact: One of our Goodland artists, Evelyn Cook, not only painted our ceremonial masks, but to go along with that, she painted her interpretation of a Goodland Cat. Check it out. What would the Calusas think of that?

Recently, my friend, M.J. Chaput, had a great twenty-first century idea. “Let’s change a few things inside here and outside too.” M.J. is an expert seamstress and is always involved in interesting projects. She painted the frame of our outside display case and lined it inside with sunbrella fabric. She, Jane Ann Smith and several other ladies pitched in and decorated the inside of the building with new window treatments and a colorful table skirt to go around the front table. I like to think of these improvements as modern day artifacts!

M. J.Chaput painting our Display Case.

Here’s my final fact: While we respect our past, we are enjoying our present day use of our Community Center and look forward to more in the future. Functions there definitely enhance friendships and benefit the community as a whole. We appreciate it and we love it.

About The Author

Joanie Fuller, originally from Atlanta, lived in Naples for eleven years before moving to Goodland in 2007. She is a past President of the Goodland Civic Association and is now serving on Commissioner Donna Fiala’s Islands Advisory Committee.

This year’s theme was Broadway Musicals and none was more represented than the musical, “Hair,” with three boats entering as such. Other appearances were “The Book of Mormon,” “South Pacific,” The Lion King,” “Cats,” “Mary Poppins,” and “Evita,” to name as many as I can remember. After all, I was on one of the “Hair” boats. Get it?

The crew from “The Lion King” takes the stage to receive their tie for first place, only to donate their prize back to the raffle.

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The popular yearly event raises money through the sale t-shirts, beads, hats, other items and the selling of raffle tickets throughout the island. Winners were announced at Stan’s at 4:30 PM, along with the winners of the Boat Parade.

While every boat received a prize for entering, the tie for first place went to “The Lion King” and “South Pacific.” Both boats donated their prizes back to be raffled off to ticket holders.

This year, Goodland held a special early 50/50 raffle where only 500 tickets were sold at $10 a piece. The tickets quickly sold out and when the winner was announced at Stan’s the Friday before, they decided to donate the money back to Hospice.

Every year, the Goodland Boat Parade contributes thousands of dollars towards Hospice. The busy turnout and amount of raffle tickets sold are sure to make for another extraordinary donation through the Goodland Boat Parade to our local chapter of Avow Hospice.

About The Author

Natalie Strom has lived in Goodland for over two years and has worked in Goodland on and off for more than five years. She is a graduate of the University of Iowa and is also a former Buzzard Queen of Stan’s Idle Hour in Goodland. email: natalie@coastalbreezenews.com

The main fundraiser for the state park also brought a number of arts and crafts vendors and non-profit groups to the forefront. The Friends of the Florida Panther, Rookery Bay, Friends of Fakahatchee, Maximized Living and the Goodland Arts Alliance, among others, came out to promote the ways in which each are making a difference within Southwest Florida.

Arts and crafts vendors offered anything from paintings to jewelry to handmade children’s clothing and stuffed animals.

There was no shortage of food either. Philly cheesesteaks, fresh squeezed lemonade, fried gator and barbecue kept stomachs stuffed throughout the weekend.

This made for the perfect opportunity to relax in a lawn chair under the Royal Palm Hammock and drift off to the sweet sounds of Ernie Evans and the Florida State Bluegrass Band, Gary Mackey, The Laws, The Bean Pickers, Bugtussle Ramblers and Danny Stanley and the Bluegrass Gentlemen.

Hosted by the Friends of Collier-Seminole State Park, 100% of net proceeds go right back to the park.

Camping is available at the park as well as guided morning canoe trips and full moon canoe trips and individual canoe rentals. To learn more about Collier-Seminole State Park call 239-394-3397.

About The Author

Natalie Strom has lived in Goodland for over two years and has worked in Goodland on and off for more than five years. She is a graduate of the University of Iowa and is also a former Buzzard Queen of Stan’s Idle Hour in Goodland. email: natalie@coastalbreezenews.com

The Goodland sign BEFORE

There are two non-profit organizations in Goodland that have been working towards bettering our small but mighty village. The Goodland Civic Association and the Goodland Arts Alliance not only take on specific community-related projects individually, but also recently collaborated on a project to repaint the hand-carved sign that greets visitors as they pull onto the curvy road from SR-92.

The Goodland Arts Alliance is in its fledgling year, developed over the summer by 12 Goodlanders who wanted to shed more light on the multitude of artists, musicians and historians who call the .6 square mile island home. The GAA mission is simple: to preserve, promote, and advance the cultural presence in the Village of Goodland through art, history, and education.

The Goodland Arts Alliance has worked closely with Collier County Parks and Recreation to help recreate MarGood Harbor Park into the artistic headquarters of Goodland. GAA artists will soon be displaying their artwork within the MarGood museum and future goals are to turn the four remaining cottages on the premises into working studios, stores or reenactment centers for the GAA to utilize.

The Goodland sign AFTER

The GAA’s Inaugural Harbor Arts & Music Festival will be held on March 10th from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM to help raise money for the above goals. Many well-known and world renowned artists within the Goodland and Marco community will display their artwork along with other artists and crafters from other areas of Florida. Goodland has an amazing array of talented musicians who will perform throughout the day – no doubt collaborating with eachother for an audio experience. The Florida Water and Land Legacy will be there, encouraging registered voters to sign petitions towards re-allocating monies back to the Florida Forever Funds – state-designated monies that purchased MarGood Harbor Park in 2005. Other non-profits will also be there, and of course there will be food – lots of good, local food.

And… As of late, I’ve become fascinated with tye-dying things, so even I will be selling my wares at the festival. (Count on other art and craft vendors to have far, far more talent than me.)

Goodland Civic Association board members, President Joanie Fuller and Marziano Gizzi were the first of nearly the entire GCA board to join the GAA. Fuller and Gizzi suggested that the two non-profits work together to re-paint the sign at the entrance of Goodland that was faded and peeling. The GCA would pay for the materials for the sign and the GAA artists would donate time to pressure wash, scrape off the old paint, re-paint and clear coat it.

Gizzi stepped right up to get the sign moved to the workspace of GAA member and sign artist, Denise Santos. Gizzi spent days scraping off the old paint, calling on helpers when he could. Denise hand-painted the multi-layered sign with the help of Margie Fortune and Judy Wittwer of the GAA.

The sign was hung in time for the Mullet Festival at the end of January. Check it out the next time you drive by… the sign literally glistens in the sunlight. It’s beautiful.

Both organizations were pleased to see how well they could worked together towards a common goal. GCA President Joanie Fuller commented on this, stating, “It’s a privilege and a source of great satisfaction to watch Goodlanders from all parts of the island come together and volunteer at our events. When residents work, play and laugh together, they enhance friendships as well as the greater good of our community.”

FINISHED!

Joanie is absolutely right. After all, the goal of the GCA is to look out for the general welfare of Goodlanders and to promote community spirit and good will among residents.

The GCA holds a number of annual events, including the Christmas Bazaar in December, two pancake breakfasts and an island-wide garage sale. The Goodland Garage Sale and the second Pancake Breakfast will be held on the same weekend – March 2nd and 3rd. The pancakes start flipping at 8:00 AM which also happens to be when the garage sale starts. The Pancake Breakfast lasts until 11:00 AM but the garage sale will continue throughout the day.

Fundraisers are important for the GCA as they take on a lot of issues relating to working with the county and the City of Marco Island.

For example, the GCA worked vigorously and closely with the County Commissioners to pass the Goodland Boat Park agreement in the Spring of 2012 which essentially closes the park to boaters three weekends out of the year. This allows Goodlanders use of the park for the Christmas Bazaar in December, the Boat Parade in February, and one other weekend in March for Goodland’s Spring event.

Recently, the GCA worked closely wth Commissioner Fiala in an effort to lower Goodland’s high water costs as they were, well, ridiculous. In December of 2012, the County Commissioners passed that the “Goodland Water District” would be enveloped into the Collier County district as a whole, saving Goodlanders from paying the tax on Marco’s purchase of the water treatment plant as well as lowering administrative fees. Water bills have been markedly lower in the last two months.

The GCA has been working with Collier County Code Enforcement Supervisor, Kitchel Snow, who has offered to bring a dumpster to Goodland on March 4th, the Monday after th garage sale. This way, residents may get rid of any leftovers or anything else they may want to dispose of. It will be in place from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM on that day only, but the position of the dumpster is yet to be decided.

For an island of only 300 people, we sure do get a lot done. Much of it is thanks to the support of the county as well as those who come to Goodland and take part in our many events. However, none of it would be possible without the volunteers who donate their time to make Goodland as GREAT as it is. So come see us March 2nd, 3rd and 10th! You won’t be disappointed.

About The Author

Natalie Strom has lived in Goodland for over two years and has worked in Goodland on and off for more than five years. She is a graduate of the University of Iowa and is also a former Buzzard Queen of Stan’s Idle Hour in Goodland. email: natalie@coastalbreezenews.com

Queen Mary was in attendance.

A packed tent, including many of Stan’s family members and friends, paid tribute to the man “who put Goodland on the map.” Photos by Natalie Strom

Commissioner Fiala spoke from the heart.

Steve Gober reminisced about the many things his father did for Goodland.

Captain Jack the Dolphin greeted guests at the Pancake Breakfast.

Flippin’ flapjacks with the GCA!

On January 29th there was dedication ceremony to rename the Goodland Bridge to the Stan Gober Memorial Bridge. I don’t remember a more moving dedication in the years I have been doing this, nor one that had more people in attendance. There must have been at least 100 people under that tent while Stan’s favorite rendition of the National Anthem opened the ceremony. There were many tears and goose-pimples among the attendees. One of Stan’s band members played for us before and after.

Stan’s portraits were looking out at the audience as though he were with us. Steve Gober’s speech gave a great tribute to his Dad, and then he introduced his brothers and sons. Even “Queen Mary” was in the audience to pay special homage to her friend. Walter Kane, the originator of the idea, spoke of getting 1,500 signatures to rename the bridge. And yes, yours truly was the emcee and spoke of my long-standing friendship with Stan. Go with God, Dear Friend.

Another good thing recently happened for Goodland! The Goodland Water District has become a part of the County Water District! Goodlanders have been paying one of the highest water rates in Florida and have been pressing to get that changed. Together, through a lot of negotiation, the Goodlanders, the Public Utilities Department (water) and I have managed to change that. I’m hearing that water rates in Goodland have been cut almost in half. For a community of working people, this has been welcome news! We, at the county, are so happy we could help these wonderful people.

Did you know the County won the award for the best tasting water in the state of Florida and the 4th best tasting water in North America? The contest included Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico.

Speaking of Goodland, once again they had a terrific Pancake Breakfast! During Mullet Festival weekend, I attended the Goodland Civic Association hosted event for delicious pancakes and sausage. It was the largest attendance they have ever had! Lots of fun, laughter and fellowship was had by all. There will be another one soon. Watch for the signs.

And still another Goodland event is coming soon! Yup, the Goodland Boat Parade will be held on Saturday, February 16th at 2:00 PM. If you take a ride out there you’ll find many boats decorated and playing music while going past the boat docks at the Goodland Boat Park. They sell hot dogs, t-shirts, beads and lots more. The charity benefactor is Avow Hospice. Bring a chair, bring a hat and enjoy a really fun day in Goodland. While you’re there, drop by Stan’s and the Little Bar for a little refreshment and food. Then drop by the Marco Lodge to finish off the day. You’ll be so glad you did. There is free parking available at the Boat Park.

By the way, while you’re there, stop by Margood Harbor Park for a little bit of history. You’ll find you can spend an entire day on Goodland and find plenty of things to do………….and you won’t starve either. You might even see some of the Goodland Arts Alliance’s artwork while in Goodland!

The Caxambas, Goodland and Port of the Islands Marina stores will welcome a new vendor starting February 1st. This vendor is the same efficient, caring group that now is the vendor at Resident’s Beach, and you couldn’t ask for better than that! It will probably take them a few days to stock the stores and get their feet wet, but expect the service to increase, the hours to extend, and the stock to improve. Please welcome them, and give any feedback you think they might need. They aim to please.

Please mark your calendars: Commissioner Donna Fiala’s Annual Town Hall Meeting, Thursday, February 21st at 6:30PM at Historical Society’s Rose Hall. As a special treat, Congressman Trey Radel will arrive at 6PM to meet and greet guests who arrive early, and will also begin the evening with a short speech. Following the Congressman’s 5 minute presentation, Donna Fiala will give an update on the State of the County and items that particularly affect and/or interest the residents of Marco Island. Donna will bring with her the County Manager, the administrator of the Growth Management Division who will address the 951/US41 pending construction, new developments along U.S. 41 and also Collier Blvd. The meeting is scheduled to last one hour, with questions and answers included. No reservations are necessary.

Both Friday and Saturday were record-setting days for the GCA’s Pancake Breakfast. Phtos by Natalie Strom

GCA Board Member Marziano Gizzi
(center) made it a family affair, inviting his parents and aunt and uncle.

Early morning duck hunters made a stop at the Community Center on Sunday to fill up on pancakes and sausage after a busy morning.

Members of the Goodland Civic Association volunteered their time to pour juice and coffee, flip pancakes, sizzle up sausages and gather raffle tickets.

Jim Inglis and Dave Fuller man the griddle.

Peace and pancakes! Tara O’Neill and George Vellis prepare for a groovy time at the Goodland Community Center.

By Natalie Strom

natalie@coastalbreezenews.com

During the weekend of the Mullet Festival, the Goodland Civic Association (GCA) hosted a two-day Pancake Breakfast to fill up patrons’ stomachs before the big festivities. Members of the GCA host two pancake breakfasts a year. This year, they broke their own record with a whopping 420 guests between the two days. There must be something in the pancakes! Stop by the Goodland Community Center on March 2nd and 3rd for a second helping of the season.

joaniefuller@embarqmail.com

Pioneers and adventurers always find the best kept secrets. And, lucky for us, one of those is smack dab in the middle of Goodland. Drop Anchor is a unique and sparkling waterfront community for those 55 and older, consisting of 62 manufactured homes with boat docks, a beautiful sunrise view to the East and a slew of interesting people.

Denny Grill, Bud Abbott, Jack and Bobbie Swisher. PHOTO BY JOANIE FULLER

I have always wanted to learn more about the history of Drop Anchor and of the adventuresome types who reside there. Fortunately, I have become friends with a few of the seasonal residents and they offered to help me with my quest.

Ron and Donna DePatie love to garden and they share their talents by making some of the common areas attractive and well-tended, especially for holidays. Aren’t the pumpkins cute?

Denny Grill and Agatha Norton, kindly introduced me to some of the pioneers – the first settlers, if you will – who have been in Drop Anchor for years. And, boy, they loved reminiscing about how it was in the beginning.

Drop Anchor Waterfront.

Ron and Donna DePatie.

Dub Abbott, 98 years young, came from Kentucky in 1985 and is the oldest current resident and a great guy! He told me only eight original owners still live in the park and there are only ten year-round residents. Dub also explained that the Drop Anchor Association bought the entire park from Alan Greer, the original owner of the park, in 1990, and enthusiastic folks paid off the mortgage in several years.

Jack and Bobbie Swisher came from Iowa in 1975 and they told me how it was back then. Jack related, “We used to sell the fish we caught for gas so we could go fishing again the next day!” Pretty smart, huh?

Bobbie told me about the telephone service or lack there of….. “There was a community phone for all to share and everyone could hear what you were saying,” she said. Can you imagine being able to hear everybody’s business?

Mike and Natalie Siavrakas.

One could say the early folks were roughin’ it, but that’s what they liked about it. In a way, it’s still roughin’ it for new residents like Mike and Natalie Siavrakas from Connecticut. But guess what? They love it so much that they named their home “Emerald City.”

You might ask, “How does someone find this hidden jewel?” I asked Natalie and Mike that very question. When they were visiting Marco Island a few years ago, someone told them they should check out Goodland. So what do you think happened next? Natalie chuckled, “We went to Stan’s and Little Bar and loved both so much that we decided to rent something on our next visit.” And now they own!!!

Social life in this lively place includes special Valentine’s Day meals, pot lucks, and the most extravagant of all – a Cape Romano breakfast by boat. Doesn’t that sound fantastic? The lifestyle in Drop Anchor is simply relaxing – walking, boating, fishing or sipping something cool on the patio with a neighbor – pretty typical of Goodland life.

Natalie and Mike described their purchase as an “investment in our health.” Judging by the great lives led by Dub Abbott, the Swishers and Denny and Agatha, they just might be right.

The hidden jewel of Drop Anchor is no longer a secret now that I have written about it, but the charm of it is definitely worth sharing. Drop in sometime and you’ll see what I mean.

Joanie Fuller is the President of the Goodland Civic Association. She and her husband of 48 years, David Fuller, are residents of Goodland.

The 17th Annual Boat Parade will be held on February 16 at 2:00 PM in Goodland. The theme is Broadway Musicals. As always, all proceeds go to Avow Hospice of Naples and will be used to support the Marco Island Branch as it provides comfort and support to the terminally ill and their families, primarily in the home.

The whole island takes part in raising money for the cause. Raffles, 50/50s and t-shirt sales will be offered throughout the island. The restaurants in town – Stan’s, The Little Bar and the Old Marco Lodge – will have food specials and live music. If you choose to dine at any of these establishments, limited waterfront seating is available to view the parade.

To view the parade by boat, anchor as close to the mangroves as possible between the Goodland Bridge and red marker 10.

The best place to view the parade this year is at the Goodland Boat Park. Volunteers are planning a party at the park where there will be ample, free parking. Musician extraordinaire J. Robert will entertain with his fiddle starting at noon. Sandy and Jared’s famous “belly buster” hot dogs and chili dogs will be for sale along with chips and soda.

Bring chairs or a picnic blanket for viewing comfort.

Or better yet, be a part of the parade! After all, you can’t have a parade to celebrate Avow Hospice without any boats. As noted, the theme is Broadway Musicals. Think Cats, Les Miserable, Dream Girls, The Lion King, Chicago, Mary Poppins, RENT, Oklahoma!, Wicked, Hair, Hairspray, Annie, Grease, Singin’ in the Rain, All That Jazz, Fiddler on the Roof, West Side Story, The Sound of Music, Cabaret, My Fair Lady, The Wiz, Little Shop of Horrors, Damn Yankees!, The Phantom of the Opera, Miss Saigon, Mamma Mia!, Avenue Q, The Producers, Jersey Boys, South Pacific, Aida, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Spamelot, Evita, The King and I or Guys and Dolls.

Now, to register: Call Elaine Ritchie at 239-642-8356 or visit www.mardigrasgoodland.com. That’s it. Extravagance is NOT required and boats of all sizes and shapes are welcome. The only rule is TO HAVE FUN!

Last year’s parade raised $17,000. It’s always nice to break a record – especially for a good cause. Help us make that happen here in Goodland as we celebrate the lives of those who have been touched by Avow Hospice.

About The Author

Natalie Strom has lived in Goodland for over two years and has worked in Goodland on and off for more than five years. She is a graduate of the University of Iowa and is also a former Buzzard Queen of Stan’s Idle Hour in Goodland. email: natalie@coastalbreezenews.com

natalie@coastalbreezenews.com

On Saturday, February 9, The Knights of Columbus will have you laughing all night long as they host an evening of entertainment featuring comedian Tim Walkoe. Sign up for this one-day event and chuckle in the name of children’s charities supported by The Knights of Columbus.

Tim Walkoe SUBMITTED photo

If you haven’t heard of Tim Walkoe, you may as well be living under a rock. The Grand Prize winner of ABC’s “America’s Funniest People” has been on HBO, Showtime, A&E, TNN, PBS and much more. A headliner of over 100 comedy clubs nationwide, including the Comedy Stop in Las Vegas and Atlantic City, Walkoe has also been a featured performer at the Chicago Comedy Festival for the past four years. The Chicago Tribune defines his routine as “nonstop laughter from start to finish.”

And on February 9, Walkoe will add Marco Island to his long list of places where he has performed. The evening’s host is, of course, The Knights of Columbus. The venue: San Marco Catholic Church Parish Hall, 851 San Marco Road.

The night of fun begins at 6:30 PM with a surf and turf dinner catered by Kretch’s Restaurant. The cost for the show and dinner is $40 with a cash bar offered. Tables of 8 or 10 can be reserved.

For more information or tickets, call: Sal, 239-394-8578; Al, 239-961-9996; Dick, 239-860-4354; Lou, 239-269-2148; or Ben, 239-394-6105.

Don’t miss out on a night of fine food and big laughs to benefit the ongoing philanthropical works of The Knights of Columbus.

As part of the Ten Thousand Islands, the National Park Service aptly refers to this area as “a labyrinth of water and mangroves.” Add approximately 5,000 area boats out at any given time to enjoy this natural beauty, and it’s not a big surprise that Collier is one of the top ten counties in Florida for boating accidents, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission. The FWC adds that inexperience, inattention and speed were top causes of these accidents.

“There are many reasons to understand safe boating around Marco Island,” points out Laura Carney of the Marco Island Sail and Power Squadron. “Waters constantly change depth, with over a three-foot tide change, gulf water conditions can be considerably different from protected rivers and bays. Channels are narrow, with depths outside that are too shallow for many boats, and navigation buoys can get moved or go missing.” The Marco Island Sail and Power Squadron is dedicated to making boating safe, but also fun, and offers classes and a social network for boaters. It’s part of a national organization that was founded in 1914 as a non-profit committed to safe boating through education.

Boaters can find classes on safe boating, electronics, engine maintenance, weather, and advanced navigation. The Power Squadron also provides free vessel safety inspections. But the organization is about more than just education. One hundred and fifty members provide a network of fellow boaters. The group meets once a month for dinner at the Marco Island Yacht Club. Each dinner hosts a speaker on a different boating topic. “The squadron also has monthly luncheons and group boat trips, both local and overnight. It’s a great way to meet fellow boaters and we are always looking to welcome new members,” adds Carney.

The Marco Island Sail and Power Squadron is offering its next class, “America’s Boating Course,” beginning February 4th. It is a five-session course held at 6:00 PM. The classes are held at 1114 North Collier Boulevard, near the Chamber of Commerce. Carney points out the Squadron hopes to create a bigger, safer sense of community through the classes and through fellowship. “You have peace of mind knowing you are doing all you can do to become a safe, knowledgeable boater. You have the skills to help you in any situation that might arise as you navigate the waters, and you have increased enjoyment with people of similar interests.”