NEW YEARS PARTIES

It is tradition to party on the last eve of the year, and bring in a New Year with good spirit and good intentions. V.W. Resident wishes every a fun, but safe, evening, with friends and neighbors.

Lets have a great 2009.

TRAIN CRASH IN PERU

V.W. Resident is back from "warmer weather" in South America.!

First a big thanks to our friends who kept the blog going - even with a little help via email.

Second V.W. must confess he made a huge error thinking going South would lead to warmer weather. That was true on the beach in Rio, but, truth be told it was cold in the mountains of Peru. I guess that is why they wear blankets all the time.

V.W. and his Lady took 430 pictures, with their old "Kodak Brownie Camera", and with that many pictures one can't possibly post them all on line. At least one person will be happy about that. He can look at them on line.

There is one picture and a "youtube" video that warrants a peek. The blue train was our transportation from Cuzco to the Town of Machu Pichu an hour up into the mountains. It was an hour ride where we were offered "coca tea" to help fight altitude sickness. We were treated to wonderful views the entire trip, and, with seats up front, we had a clear view of the empty track ahead.

The "youtube" video shows a different view of that track when two trains ran "head on" into each other a few days after our journey. No major injuries were reported, but it is hard to believe that someone actually took this clip. Check it out on the link below (you may have to cut & paste).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QfFCC71vhDM

HAVE AN AFTER CHRISTMAS LAUGH

Returning home from work, a blond was shocked to find her house ransacked and burglarized. She telephoned the police at once and reported the crime. The police dispatcher broadcasted the call on the radio, and a K-9 unit, patrolling nearby, was the first to respond.

As the K-9 officer approached the house with his dog on a leash, the blond ran out on the porch, shuddered at the sight of the cop and his dog, then sat down on the steps. Putting her face in her hands, she moaned, 'I come home to find all my possessions stolen. I call the police for help, and what do they do? ... They send me a BLIND policeman!'


(Hope this humor offends nobody)

HAPPY HOLIDAY

No opinions, jokes or pictures of the kids today. We are enjoying it and wish everyone a good day.

ANOTHER STREET ACTIVITY - JAN

Those guys' on Valentina Court are at it again. This time neighbors will get together for a New Years Day "Wine and Cheese" event. The party is scheduled from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

It is hoped that their will be minimal impact on New Years Football. V.W. Resident will be there and is looking forward to some fine wine, and neighborly talk.

See you all then.

GOV. CRIST SLOWS FORECLOSURES

This is good news for the Holiday. Gov. Crist asked the banks to put a 45 day "hold" on foreclosures within the our State. It was reported a few days ago that the banks have agreed.

This is a nice short term gesture. Hopefully some people can find a long term solution to their problems with this extra time.

AN END TO "OUR BUDGET"

It is near the end of the year and hopefully all the bills have been paid.

For those of us in "The Walk" a new year will soon be upon us and the first of our new Quarterly fees will be due. Yes, there was an increase. It was far from huge. It is hoped that it is a manageable increase for all. It is what it is.

The "Opinion of One" will cease with this post. It was fun looking at the budget lines that impact our community. We gained some understanding and perspective on the 'nuts and bolts' that go into our H.O.A. Dues. In doing this we certainly did not become an expert on the budget, but did become informed. That is good and hopefully not offensive to anyone, as our goal was to be positive.

Now is time for the Northern gang (NJ-NY) to sit down and look over their income and expenses. A little planning will make you happy campers down the road. Know where it goes guys.

OUR BUDGET - CAR WASH

Is this a waste? Is it just a convenience?

Who knows the right answer to those questions. If you don't own a car. golf cart or a bike one might argue the Car Wash is a waste. That would be their view. So be it.

If you do own a vehicle and use the facility it may be argued that it is certainly convenient. Great place to spruce up the Model T for Christmas. Who wants to go to war over these different points of view.

In the 'opinion of one' it is positive that the Car Wash is doing very well and that our H.O.A. is looking at making a gross income of $20,000.

LITTLE GIRL'S BIRTHDAY

Here at the computer is V.W. Neighbor trying to figure out how to do this blog thing while the real publishers are vacationing in Brazil.

We just received an email from some place in South America. It was from that Lady who knows all those "special dates." She wants us to post a "Happy Birthday" to a special person, her daughter - LJ.

Under strict rules we cannot say LJ's age. But we can wish her a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY today, with the hope that she has many many more.

TEN DAYS TO CHRISTMAS

As a kid V.W. Resident always looked forward to Christmas. As of today there are ten days to go. Last minute shoppers get their wheels turning, get out, and buy someone a present. For the sake of the economy that's a good idea, but pay with cash.

Sitting here looking at Verona Lake I remember those "old days" when I heard: "Do good on your report card and Santa will bring you a set of Lionel Trains." That was good. But that was then, and now it is just a memory - a good one at that.

Well kids, since I have seen more Christmas's than you, I Can say as an expert: "It is the thought that counts." Do not add to credit card debt because "you have to buy something for someone." A plate of cookies is fine. A glass of wine or a beer is also great. Heck with enough wine I can see that old Lionel Train steaming around the Christmas Tree. Today I hope you shop wisely; don't overspend, and see no traffic or full parking lots in your shopping endeavors.

Best wishes for a Merry Christmas.

HEARING SEMINAR

Town Center, here in "The Walk" will offer a Hearing Seminar tonight at six pm.

This V.W. Neighbor probably will go, but really thinks if everone would stop mumbling, and speak up there would be no need for such a seminar....What?

OUR BUDGET - IMPACT OF FORECLOSURES

Line 846 was a little thing that caught a neighbors eye. He wondered what this was all about. He let his fingers dial the correct numbers to get an explanation.

It took about 15 seconds to learn that this expense is what we pay for those who don't pay.

Roughly 3% of Verona Walk is in or close to foreclosure and the related monthly fees are not being put in the "bucket" to pay the bills.

Those of us that do pay our HOA fees are kicking in about $1.70 per property. That is less than a dollar a month.

The "opinion of one" on this subject is that: This is a minimal impact on the individual property owner; but their is concern for the financial crisis hurting more of our neighbors and adding to this cost. Let us hope for better days ahead of us.

ON THE BABY FRONT

The "Princess" has been doing real good with her baby brother. Mom gots about five seconds worth of help here. Every little bit helps. Connor seems to have gotten quite a few little bites from all that turkey a couple of weeks ago. No wonder he is stuffed !

ON THE BUDGET: HELP US CHARLIE

Wow, I see the concern about budgets has hit the Governor's Office.

Up in Tallahassee Gov. Charlie Crist is selling off one of our State Executive Planes. He is getting a tad over a million dollars for it. Good move as he is also getting public support for his effort.

Now you guys up in Jersey and NYC let us know how your politicos are helping you !

As to us guy's we too have major issues that need attention. Our TV costs will be scrutinised in a future post.

OUR BUDGET - CABLE TV CHARGES

Recently V.W. Resident heard a neighbor saying the charge for our cable TV is too high. She said, she was able to get her TV on her own using the antenna she brought with her when she moved into "The Walk. Of course those "rabbit ears" only bring in 6 channels.

If we all did as she suggests we could reduce our monthly maintenance fee by $30. Thirty dollars is a nice chunk of change. This deserves a closer look.

Most (not statistically determined) people only watch 6 channels. The problem is "my" six channels versus your six channels, versus everyone Else's adds up to a much larger number of channels. Where is one going to find "rabbit ears" that can get all the channels most people want?

In the "Opinion of One" $30 is a good deal, as if she purchased basic service on her own it would cost her more than $50. Occassionally she could look at some other channels.

Unfortunately she is 'set in her ways', and is going to pay her $30 anyway in her maintenance fee, but still use her "rabbit ears" for those six channels. She also is going to, with government help, upgrade that signal. She advises to check her out on the link below.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMeaX8Kz2TM

We hope You Tube still has this clip on their site. It makes the whole question of cable costs understandable.

HOW COME THERE ISN"T A GAME TODAY

The young man is in the football mood as one can see. He wonders when he will get to see the next Patriots game and maybe drive the bus again. It will be a while, but well worth the wait. He also says: "Thanks" to his Aunt up in Manhattan, who had the wisdom to buy him a Patriot's bottle holder, and tattoos.

REMEMBER PEARL HARBOR

Dec. 7, 1941 - "The day that shall live in infamy."

Those were the words of F.D.R. to the American people following the attack on our Naval Base in Hawaii. The Japanese sneak attack brought us into World War II.

Most of us were kids or not even born when this event took place, but we sure learned about. If not the lectures from our history teachers, it was the stories (or lack of stories) from our Father's, Uncles and neighbors, about this terrible day. The family recalls that "Mom's" father sepent 20 or so days in a life boat fighting in the Atlantic several months later.

Dec. 7, 1941 is an important date. It calls for a moment of silence, and reflection.

CHRISTMAS DANCE AT TOWN CENTER

Shelly & Kelly provide entertainment at tonight's Holiday Dinner Dance at Town Center.

This Dance will get everyone in the holiday mood, and allow for more getting to know your neighbors. We will be there and look forward to some good close dancing.

HEADING FOR WARMER WEATHER

V W Resident's good friend is leaving us for a while. It seems we have had a couple of cold snaps that require heading to warmer weather.

The guy and his lady are going to Brazil, Argentina, and Peru ! The bad news is there will be some pictures to be looked at when they return, and the blog is to be handled by staff a staff of hundreds ( two neighbors and one friend).

The plane is taking off as this article goes on line. We hope they have a good flight and enjoy the trip. The neighbors "have your back." Now it is off to work and write something for the kids and our gang.

OUR HOA BUDGET - LANDSCAPE

Landscaping was the first item V.W.Resident looked for on the 2009 budget.

This item was looked at close because I had some issues during the last year. From neighbors I talked with they too had some things that were annoying. So a close look at this item is warranted.

We spend a lot of money on maintaining the grounds. That includes cutting lawns, trimming plants, mulch and watering. The bottom line is $1,780,191 This is the single largest expense that a homeowner pays. Could it be done for less? Could the job be better. From this viewpoint the answer is subjective.

Looking at the dollar figure each property in "The Walk" is assessed, the charge is between $114 and $128. On that amount this writer recalls that the amount paid at his previous residence was $125 for cutting and trimming. Watering was extra, a lot extra. Maintaining sprinklers was extra. Fertilizer was extra. Pest control was extra. The monthly costs here, again at previous residence, was an easy $200 per month. The job they did compares to that which is being done here. It was not perfect, but it was not a failure by any means.

On this expense the "opinion of one" is that this expense item is necessary, and reasonable. For less than $30 per week one does not have to cut, trim, edge, water, replace a sprinkler head etc. This means this one person can stay inside the house, enjoy the a/c, read a magazine, and watch TV. Best of all one does not have to get towed out of the lake.

WILSON BLVD SEMINAR

Once again this writer was treated to a very informative seminar regarding the planning of a new road designed to reduce congestion on Collier Blvd. A couple of options are on the drawing board and one runs just in back of our development. It would be located one quarter mile off our community property line.

Another proposal placed a new road a few miles behind our homes connecting with US 41. While away from our homes this proposal is said to not have the traffic removal impact that is wanted.

Mandated protection of wild life and green lands prevents a plan that would "split the difference" of the propose Wilson Blvd project.

Hearings and lots of time appear to be in the news for the next few years, unless a developer decides to build something and take on the cost of a new road. For now it is "wait and see."

BOSTON COLLEGE - ONLY GAME THIS WEEK

Due to extreme pressure from within the clan the only game of interest this week will be BC.

They are not ranked number 0ne, two, or three. They might not even be ranked. So who cares? One alumnus up yonder, and her family. It could be a depressing month if the Eagles crash, so are fingers are crossed.

Thus the only prediction is - Boston College, with a memory of the Wallkill Valley season and maybe a BC player in a few years.

BUDGET INCREASE IN VERONA WALK

The Verona Walk Budget was recently released. All homeowners received a copy a few days back.

Listening to the "talk" there has been a variety of comments - mostly positive. Some were negative. Nobody was talking about a war or rebellion, so that is generally good news.

Bottom line is the budget is UP. It is an out of pocket increase of 5.5% or in most cases just under $10. per property. This seems reasonable, but always there are questions.

Over the next few days V.W. Resident will take a look at some of the expenses and share the "opinion of one."

Look for more especially you readers up in NJ and NY. You guys really know expenses and might have an opinion on these H.O.A. fees as they compare with your out of pocket expense.

TREE TRIMMING PARTY

Once again Town Center was the location for another great neighborhood get together. It was last night at 7:00PM.


About seventy residents attended, and enjoyed refreshments as well as wonderful music provided by our resident V. W. Teacher.

He brought students from his music class at East Naples Middle School. The "kids" considered this performance a real treat, while on the other hand we were treated to a fine concert.

The Chorus will perform again this Thursday on Fifth Ave. and Eighth Street in downtown Naples. The time is 7:00pm and follows the tree lighting at McCabes is at 6:00.

BLOG OWNERSHIP

This blog is believed by a few to be owned by Pulte, or that Pulte somehow pays for it. That belief is without a basis. Should a reader want the Pulte Blog they can click on the underlined words to the right reading: Naples Fl Community. They have an excellent web page that is very informative. Just click on this link.

Remember this blog is privately owned and operated as an endeavor to have some fun, and share some items of interest with our kids, neighbors and especially friends.

Comments and suggestions, of a positive constructive nature, are always welcome.

HAVE A LAUGH, START THE MONTH WITH A SMILE

Bambi, a blond in her fourth year as a UCLA Freshman, sat in her US Government class. The professor asked Bambi if she knew what Roe vs. Wade was about.

Bambi pondered the question; then, finally, said, 'That was the decision George Washington had to make before he crossed the Delaware.'

BIG GAMES THIS SATURDAY

Most of those colleges have folded up their tents and gone home, but there are still a few big games on the horizon. The guys have given us these choices for this Saturday.

My neighbor, with 6 or more games set to be recorded this Saturday, says the following teams are our winners: Gators eat well trying to make a statement again. The other two will be LSU & BAMA, BAMA, BAMA. So he thinks.

The Jersey guy, who thinks he is the Viking Warrior, states these three will win: Our Miami Hurricanes over North Carolina; Texas A& M in a squeaker over Texas; and the rout of he week will be Sooners over Oklahoma State.

HAPPY THANSGIVING TO ALL NORTH & SOUTH

It is that time of the year again. Thanksgiving !

My lady friend has a nice size turkey. She is letting me come over to enjoy some food with her Kid number five, and the 2.07 grandchildren. V.W. Resident is looking forward to the event.

The little boy was in charge of getting the "bird" because he is a skilled hunter. If he delivers we should have something really nice on the cutting board today. It should be a good time with plenty of white meat, stuffing, cranberries and my favorite black olives. The kids like them too. I'll have to grab them quick. The day should be perfect, especially if I can get to a TV for football game.

The bottom line: Everyone have a good Thanksgiving. Enjoy the day.

PS - My Lady forgot the Black Olives.

MONDAY MORNING QUARTERBACK

Every Monday after the game someone has an opinion to offer that would have changed the outcome of the game "if" they were Q-back




If your a Dolphin's Fan it is simple: Score more points. On the other side of the coin the Patriots Fans just want to hold their hands up with the victory sign.


Sunday's trip was to the game was one good time. Monday morning Quarterbacking not needed on that point.

The little guy (Darn Patriot's fan) had a great time. He got to sit in the drivers seat of the bus, and had plenty of pictures taken to remember the day. The lucky kid also got plenty of "high Fives" from the cute girl sitting next to him. V.W. Resident wanted to change seats, but Zachary wasn't moving.

This was a great day and a lot of fun for those in attendance. The Monday Morning call from this desk is: Lets do it again, soon.

SIXTY FIVE

V.W.Resident hit that magic age a few hours ago! He is now a true Senior Citizen !

This entitles this "Old Guy," as his kids called him when he was young, to use that red white and blue medicare card, demand the senior discount, and enjoy the day with "his queen."

The picture was taken a couple of weeks ago in Animal Kingdom. Maybe another trip there will happen soon.

SATURDAY'S FOOTBALL

Another week has gone by and it is time for the sports guys to tell us their three picks for Saturday. V.W. Resident knows they are experts, but doesn't think they could make a living on picking winners. None the less here is what they say.

Viking Warrior, in the cold mountains of Jersey says: Oklahoma without the points over Texas Tech in the best game of the weekend. His other choices are: Bama, and Florida.

Our local contributor always seems to favor any Florida team but has left them out this week. He is trying to annoy me by picking Wake Forrest over Boston College. In his other picks he is taking Oklahoma over Texas Tech in a tight game; and Virgina over Clemson in the 'who cares league."

What ever happened to Wallkill Valley Football?

SEVENTEEN

Ouch, this kid was just a baby seventeen years ago. She was the first grandchild that my lady friend had.

Today she is eligible for a NJ drivers license, and will soon be "paying for her own insurance." In Jersey that will make you an adult real quick.

She always liked horses and I bet her first car will be a Mustang. Why not. At least have a dream of it.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY !

A DAY ON MARCO

Tuesday was a good day. V. W. Resident took his lady friend (minus all her grand kids) back to Marco Island. The weather was just great.

We visited with old friends an cruised the waters that make up the Bays, River, and Gulf for a few hours. The water was flat and visability great.

Dolphins were spotted in three different areas. On the river the came right up to the boat. Down by Pier 81 we saw one with a fin that apparently was injured. It 'kinda' folded over, but had no impact on the animals diving and swimming. This was great but my old Kodak 127 died so no pictures.

The day ended with coffee and pistachio pie. Life is good.

DANCE WAS A GOOD MIXER

Saturday Night was "Date Night" in Verona Walk, and the best deal in town was the seven dollar dance at Town Center.

As usual neighbors brought their own drinks and snack food. Then they joined their friends or met new one's. V.W. Resident enjoyed the night and even got up to dance.

In between enjoying the fine wine, and snacks there was time to get a couple of pictures of our friends. They look pretty good, but I don't think these pictures will appear on Vogue Magazine in the near future.

WEEKEND FOOT BALL

Hard to believe that most teams have played 10 games already, and the BCS rankings are the topic of the day. Its hard to figure who is number 1, but our prognosticators know who will win this weekend.

From the Northland are these three from the Viking Warrior: Boston College with family pressure will sneak by the Seminoles. The other winners are Michigan, and Alabama

From the South are these three from our local guy:Florida State over Boston College in a tight one, BYU out flies Ayr Force, and way out West, it will be Oregon over California.

PANTHER DISCUSSION AT TOWN CENTER

Our Town Center will host a presentation by Florida Division of Fish and Wildlife on Nov. 17th at 6:00 pm. Reservations for free seminar are needed by the 14th.

This should be a very interesting topic as we are surrounded by a green space that has many animals. Unfortunately the Panther, as a species, is vanishing. The cat above is actually a Lion, and is not residing in our woods. She actually lives in Animal Kingdom and does get her share of love and respect.

Hopefully we can learn how to be aware of the animals that live around us, and share the same environment with them in a respectful manner.

.

VETERAN'S DAY

Today is Veteran's Day.

Lets take a minute to remember those who served. Lets remember that they fought for us. Keep them in our hearts and prayers.

SEVEN DOLLAR DANCE - SATURDAY NOV. 15th

Chuck Petersen will provide music for November's seven dollar dance at Town Center.

These events have always been a lot of fun, and that should continue this season. It's time to sign up and select your table.

INJURY REPORT

My lady friend is up in the "Garden State" helping one of her daughters care for the latest grand child. She left instructions with her daughter here in Naples, that if their were any problems or injuries, to call this V.W. Resident for help. Well sure enough there was a major injury.

It was roughly 7:00 PM when the door opened and the little boy was milking the most of his latest disaster. He apparently got struck with a DVD disc right smack in the middle of his head. He cried: "People are going to make fun of the bump on my head." Thank God he is letting his hair grow, as it covered the "major cut" he suffered. Poor boy.

Because he is my "pal" he pulled his hair aside in order to get this picture. Can you see the wound? It is deep and so wide he must have lost a quart of blood, but one wonders why is there no sign of stitches or a band aid?

TAX BILL IS IN YOUR MAILBOX

V.W. Resident knew they were due, so that is why he stayed away from the mailbox until now. It was satisfying to ignore the news for a few days, but sooner or latter you have to face the music.

The good news is if paid by the end of the month the savings is close to $180 on this bill. That's good. I remember when the savings was only $40 -$50 . Maybe I am getting old too remember those numbers. That's life.

ON THE BABY FRONT

Just in from New Jersey. Baby pictures from the Lady friend I have.

The little boy, Connor, is now 24 days old (plus or minus). He can actually hold his head up, and close his eyes for a short snooze. V.W. can do that too. So what is the big deal?

The girl on the right is the big sister. She is working on talking, but already is up to the task of watching baby brother. V. W. Resident thinks she is a doll.

NOVEMBERS FIRST WEEK OF FOOTBALL

Here they are again. Neither of the prognosticators has given up the love of football and their ability to call the games.

The Jerkey VIKING Warrior says: "Who cares about the college picks. Look at my boy run." Forced to give three winners the Norseman said Minnesota roasts Michigan State, Taxas trounces Baylor, and in a close call Nebraska in a squeeker.

In a very confident manner the local guy living here in "The Walk" has given these picks for us: Boston College (How did they sneak in there?) over Notre Dame. He also picks North Carolina over Ga. Tech, and Daddy Bowden smacks his boy (Clemson).

VETERANS DAY "PASTA DINNER"

A V.W. Neighbor advised that the Knights of Columbus are sponsoring a "Veterans Day Pasta Dinner. The organization did something similar last year and it was a good event.

Carrabba's will do the catering, and they do an excellent job.

The date is Nov. 11 at 5:30. Tickets required.

ANOTHER FOOTBALL WEEKEND AHEAD

Here we go again. That last week just flew by.

The man from "The Walk" has sent the following: Texas Tech again showing they are great, followed by LSU and his favorite Ohio State winning impressively.

The Viking Warrior didn't notice "jersey" was spelled wrong in last wek's post and therefore has graced again with these three:

Whatever happened to Wallkill, and the report from our BC correspondent?

HOUSING, THE ECONOMY, AND THE LOTTERY

Sales up! Sales down! Short sales. Foreclosures at record levels. Bail outs. Buy outs. What does it all mean?

V.W. Resident knows the economy is bad, bad, bad. He read recently a couple of articles regarding housing. One stated Lee County, to the North of us, is ranked number three in the country for foreclosures. South West Florida, in general, is doing poorly. That is not good news at all.

In another article it was suggested that sales are up in Naples, but the homes that were selling were high end. That is not us, so this news is not the greatest for our home values here in "The Walk." On another page it stated Mr. Pulte was forced to sell over 700,000 shares of his stock on a margin call.

A third story also suggested sales were up in the home market across the board as foreigners were scooping up bargains. I guess that is good for them. It might be good for us as they can't homestead, as they are our only tourists not residents.

I don't know what to make of all this. Will I be worse off in a few months? Maybe I'll just become a foreigner after the Country is purchased by Japan, Germany, or China. Who Knows, but it just might be a good idea to buy some foreign language books and start learning another language. A lottery ticket might even be better.

CERT MEETING

Hey all CERT Graduates there is a meeting Monday, Nov 3, 2008 at 7:00.

Location is Town Center.

HAVE A LAUGH

While walking down the street one day a US senator is tragically hit by a truck and dies.

His soul arrives in heaven and is met by St. Peter at the entrance.

'Welcome to heaven,' says St. Peter. 'Before you settle in, it seems there is a problem. We seldom see a high official around these parts, you see, so we're not sure what to do with you.'

'No problem, just let me in,' says the man.

'Well, I'd like to, but I have orders from higher up. What we'll do is have you spend one day in hell and one in heaven. Then you can choose
where to spend eternity.'

'Really, I've made up my mind. I want to be in heaven,' says the senator.

'I'm sorry, but we have our rules.'

And with that, St. Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down, down, down to hell. The doors open and he finds himself in the middle of a green golf course. In the distance is a clubhouse and standing in front of it are all his friends and other politicians who had worked with him.

Everyone is very happy and in evening dress. They run to greet him, Shake his hand, and reminisce about the good times they had while getting rich at the expense of the people.

They play a friendly game of golf and then dine on lobster, caviar and champagne.

Also present is the devil, who really is a very friendly guy who has a good time dancing and telling jokes. They are having such a good time that before he realizes it, it is time to go.

Everyone gives him a hearty farewell and waves while the elevator rises...

The elevator goes up, up, up and the door reopens on heaven where St. Peter is waiting for him.

'Now it's time to visit heaven.'

So, 24 hours pass with the senator joining a group of contented souls moving from cloud to cloud, playing the harp and singing. They have a
good time and, before he realizes it, the 24 hours have gone by and St. Peter returns.

'Well, then, you've spent a day in hell and another in heaven. Now choose your eternity.'

The senator reflects for a minute, then he answers: 'Well, I would Never have said it before, I mean heaven has been delightful, but I think I would be better off in hell.'

So St. Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down, down, down to hell.

Now the doors of the elevator open and he's in the middle of a barren land covered with waste and garbage.

He sees all his friends, dressed in rags, picking up the trash and putting it in black bags as more trash falls from above.

The devil comes over to him and puts his arm around his shoulder. 'I don't understand,' stammers the senator. 'Yesterday I was here and there was a golf course and clubhouse, and we ate lobster and caviar, drank champagne, and danced and had a great time. Now there's just a
wasteland full of garbage and my friends look miserable. What happened?'

The devil looks at him, smiles and says: YESTERDAY WE WERE CAMPAIGNIN, TODAY YOU VOTED

A REMINDER: LOCK DOORS, AND SET ALARMS

There has been a report on TV, and the web, in regards to our "sister community" in Bonita Springs. Apparently a Village Walk Home was robbed by two men. The incident took place yesterday.

A single resident, a woman, was in her home when the intruders entered. The story indicates that two men, in masks, forced their way into the home. There were no injuries per Lee County Sheriff's Officer Tony Schall.

While this is scary, it is also is a reminder for residents to lock doors and set their alarms.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

My Lady friend asked that HAPPY HALLOWEEN wishes be extended to our kids, neighbors. friends and especially to a special group of little guys.

This picture is from the hills of New Jersey. We are told it is Spiderman.

V.W. doesn't know who the tall guy is behind the kid. He looks like a meal in the making. We'll see him for sure on Thansgiving.

LAST FOOTBALL IN OCTOBER

Another week has run to "the right downfield," and this little guy wants to do the weekend kick off. Maybe he will settle for his picture here. He has no picks. Thank God. Now for the end of October we have some serious picks from our experts.

First, The Local Guy is talking about Ohio State in a blowout. He really is hoping for a "blown tire" on the bus and cancellation of the game. They will have it tough this weekend.

Right from the man's keyboard: 1. South Carolina over Tennessee 2. Florida over Georgia 3. Georgia Tech over Florida State 4. Virginia over Miami. Further he states: "I picked four games this week because I got lucky last week and got all three correct and I don't want people to think I know something."

From the mountains of Jersey the Viking Warrior, and his "little guy," have given up on Michigan teams and pick Air Force to "bomb" Army. He's nuts! He also says Minnesota will win over Northwestern; and Colorado beats up on Tecxas A & M.

VALENTINA CT. PICNIC

Despite "Mother Nature" sending a chill


it did not interfere with neighbors getting together to chat and enjoy each others' company for a couple of hours.

Sweaters and wine took care of the Fall temperature, and chips, candy, and cup cakes put a smile on everyone.

Twenty - Two people attended this event on Wednesday the 29th and seemed ready to do it again - soon.

PARROTS

V.W. Resident has a friend living in here in "The Walk." The friend has a huge heart and really cares for animals and birds. He has taught this writer quite a bit about the woods around our development, and the wildlife that co-exists with us. I thought of the beautiful birds he has when I caught up with these guys a few days ago in Disney. Hope "you'all" like the picture.

PLANTS HAVE ARRIVED

My V.W. Neighbor is marking Oct. 22,2008 on her calendar. It was a day of celebration. The plants that she had been waiting for since last Christmas finally arrived.

They are in the ground, and already look good. A little water everyday, along with sun and rain, they will do well.

It took the workers less than 15 minutes to erase the frustration that was felt over the last several months. This included making phone calls, filling out request forms, sending email, waiting for the rainy season and so on.

The frustration is now gone. It feels good.

HALLOWEEN DANCE MEMORIES

Halloween for the second year at V.W.Town Center: It was another BLAST.




The pictures above are only a few memories from that great night.

The party included "guests" from all over the world. We had Austin Powers & Co. If he got into any trouble there was a doctor in the house. Dr. Ben Dover, in blue, surely could help get to the "bottom" of any problem.

Around the horn we see a young lady with "a bad dental plan." They were carefully watched over by the "Princess of Activities," and our friend from the Orient.'

Trying to behave was our camera guy dressed as a "Professional Photographer," He stayed way to the left in case "Fonzi" decided to spin around on the dance floor on a Harley.

Rounding out the memories is our Entertainers, and some very happy couples.

CERT PICTURES ON WEB

Pictures from the Final Cert Training session are now on the community website. The address for that site is: WWW.veronawalknaples.com

In addition one may click in the "I Am Resident" Section of this blog on the underlined words: Naples, Fl community.

SATURDAY'S FOOTBALL

Wow the week went fast. The good news is The Viking Warrior is awake and has sent us his picks for Saturday College Foot Ball. Naturally his first involves another Michigan team (s). He says: Michigan State falls to Michigan; Oklahoma goes wild on Kansas; and "our" Florida whips Kentucky. The Warrior says he is having a super year with his picks.

Our local prognosticator offers these three choices. First he cries is that Ohio St will fall to Penn State ! That might be wishful thinking. He also says most emphaticly that Texas Tech will win over Kansas; and Georgia will up end LSU.

Our pick is the local movie theater.

A RIDE WITH GERONIMO IN THE WOODS

V.W.Resident has a friend in "The Walk" who loves to hit the trails that surround our quaint little village. He is easy to spot in his jungle green golf cart, known to a few of us as "The Jungle Cruiser." We call him GERONIMO.

A few days back Geronimo offered to show our publisher the beauty in the woods that surround us. He claims to have seen Florida Panther 147 and promised to get real close for our camera.

Before heading out the publisher insisted that the golf cart stay behind and we travel in an alternative vehicle. We let him drive as part of the deal. He did well, in that we all made it back in one piece.

The tour of the woodlands seemed like forever; and we did not see Florida Panther 147. What a bummer. On the way back Geronimo pointed out this beautiful creature. He said it was a very rare "Glades Deer." Click,Click, Click went our camera. One good picture for our work.

Truth be told: Geronimo is alive and does live here; but he was a couple of hundred miles away when these pictures were taken for our use. Hope the kids and neighbors like these pictures. Just maybe Geronimo will get us in position to offer some more pictures of animals.