Monday, March 31, 2014

HAVE A LAUGH

Here is another bit of "our" neighbors humor. See if you like it. You probably read it 87 times on the email circuit.

                          *******

A guy walked into a crowded bar, waving his model 1911 Colt .45 caliber pistol with an 8 round magazine, and yelled, 

"Who in here has been sleeping with my wife?"
A voice from the back of the bar yelled back, 

"You need more ammo."

BOSS LADY HITS COLD IN NJ

My Queen is in New Jersey for a few days. She has advised me that it still is cool up there. She is having her fun with the kids, and when she returns I will have completed some overdue work around la casa de veroni.

She told me not to abuse the keyboard in her absence. I promised to be good, do mostly pictures, and stick to facts.

Hurry home Queen

*****  

Sunday, March 30, 2014

TENNIS TOURNAMENT






(From our Tennis Reporter)

The stands were full for the best VW Tennis Tournament ever. There were 
56 Players entered in the tournament, both men and women. 

Organized by John Bubb, with assistance from our pro Dave Scholl, the event was
a smashing success.  Special thanks to Iron Chef Mike Rinaldi, who
cooked up delicious burgers, dogs, chicken....everything was fantastic.

Our bean counter, Pauline Caron did a fantastic job as usual keeping
all the tournament players in check. John Smith and his tennis committee
are to be congratulated.

The Winners were as follows:
1St Place Men A Division        Frank Wilkerson
1St Place Men B Division        Eric Garrastazu
1St Place Womens A Div        Susan Nimmo
1St Place Womens B Div        Val Austin
2nd Place Men A Division        Vinny Castalino
2nd Place Men B Division        Dave Strohman
2nd Place Womens A Div        Cathryn Rappoport
2nd Place Womens B Div        Sandy Messier (tie w/ Pat Rinaldi)
   
New T-shirts have been ordered for members of the tennis community. Unbelievably priced at $5. They are great shirts. Emblazoned with VW, and tennis racquets on the front.  Please place your order with any member of the tennis committee.

PULTE STOCK

One more house sold, reportedly and the stock is now selling at  $19.56

My mind can still remember the fictional investment at $6.43

I  know home sales are projected to increase, but I think (again) it would be wise to cash out on this investment.

BOARD MEETING

Notices are up in our Post Office indicating the next meeting of our Board of Directors will be on Wednesday April 2 at 9:45 AM, and another on Friday at 11:00 AM

The meeting will be at Town Center.


*****

Saturday, March 29, 2014

HELICOPTER TAKES A LOOK AT BURGLARY ATTEMPT



In the early morning hours of Friday (3/28) residents were awakened to the sound of a Collier County Sheriffs Department Helicopter. It was similar to our file picture above. It were responded to a criminal event in our Community.

The reports indicate that there was an attempted entry into  a home on Orvieto Ct. Check your local newspaper for additional facts.

We have been told the perpetrator ran from the property, reportedly when surprised by the homeowner. The incident was reported to the Sheriff's Office, and police vehicles were quickly dispatched. A Helicopter also was deployed.

A resident, who reported the above information to us,  stated, that during business hours on Friday, the Community's Manager verified the above incident. At that time nobody was in custody. The Sheriff's Office will handle the official followup investigation.

The incident was  also reported to the local safety committee. 

Once again this blog, and its' Safety Guy, urges residents to always be alert, keep doors locked and set your alarm. Doing this contributes to your safety more then anything else.


*****  

Friday, March 28, 2014

DRIVING ROUTE 66 AT THE STAGE^



On The 27th (Thursday) a trip was taken by The VeronaWalk Gentlemen's Group up to Bonita Springs. This was a quick drive up I-75 in nice new automobile.

Once inside The Stage Restaurant members were taken for a trip down memory lane via RT 66 and the old Chrysler pictured above.

Our meal was excellent and our reporter saw some nice Lobster pass his way. That was topped off with two pieces of cake.

The show followed and was quite good. 

*****

Thursday, March 27, 2014

CINDY"S BIRTHDAY


I do remember these birthdays. Now that The Boss  lets  me do these entries I notice that the kids are texting, and emailing me with all sorts of hints or reminders.

This is Cindy. I am proud to wish her a good day on her 25th birthday.

I will go out and celebrate for her down here in sunny Naples. Maybe I'll join that group going to Shula's. In any event allow me to say:

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Wednesday, March 26, 2014

COMMUNITY BOARD MEETING

On Wednesday March 25 our new Board President called the meeting to order, and welcomed members of the community that came to observe.

This initial meeting was without any fireworks, although two Flamingos were not approved as decorations on one's property.

Members of Our Board appeared, in their first formal meeting,  to want an effective Board. They showed a willingness to hear from Residents, along with expressing their hope to make better use of our Street Representatives.

It was recognized that our Community is a very safe one, and that is primarily due to the Devosta/Pulte design that created our Gatehouse which includes Guard Service. Our Board President stated he was committed to maintaining our Gate, with Guard Guard Service, as it is at present. That drew applause. Gate is pictured here. It really is impressive.


On an other issue bids will be requested for a Building Inspection Company to be considered to do the job of inspecting Town Center.

The meetings are open so check for time and place so you may attend.

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

SIGN UP FOR SHULA'S

Shula's Steak House, in the Naples Hilton will be the next location for lunch with the V.W. Gentlemen's Group our Community's Original Men's Group. Each month they visit a different area restaurant. Our friends in the ROMEO's have their lunch every second Thursday at Cafe Verona. Give them a try too.

Shula's has been the annual April stop, and always offers their famous Prime Rib. This years date is April 2.

There will be an Agenda that always produces Fun, Food, and Friendship.

Make your RSVP early as this lunch is sure to sell out quickly.

Sunday, March 23, 2014

VANDALISM OF AUTO AT TOWN CENTER

Only a couple of days ago a residents car was scratched with a sharp object. This could be from a key, screw driver or knife.

The passenger side door now requires repair, and a cost will be incurred. The damage appears to be deliberate. This is not the type of behavior one would expect from our residents or their guests, but, sad to say, it did take place.

The incident has been reported to the Sheriff's Department. Our "Safety Guy" suggests we all keep our eyes open and report any situation that looks to be out of the ordinary - especially in the parking lots.

Wednesday, March 19, 2014

FIRST BOARD ELECTED

Last night Town Center was packed full. There wasn't a parking space to be found within a half mile. The reason was the Election of our first Board of Directors.

The winners were decided by ballots from Residents of approximately 700 homes. That is a large number.

After making the count, and double checking, the winners were:

Steve Goldenberg
Cheryl Young
Bob Korba
Barry Denkensohn  

These are good people who are dedicated to working for everyone. We wish them the best of luck.



Tuesday, March 18, 2014

SOLOMON'S CASTLE

This is the second installment on that great trip a few days ago. Initially I developed only the pictures of The Lipizzaner Horses. They were beautiful and fascinated our Camera Guy.

The first part of that Friday Trip was to see Soloman's Castle. This is an ongoing work of art.

The man who is responsible came from New York in 1956. He advised it was to get away from weather that bothered his arthritis. Since then it seems like all of NY is here. If not playing golf, tennis, or fishing they are enjoying art such as what is on display at Soloman's Castle.

Here are some of the pictures from this encounter.








Sunday, March 16, 2014

BEAUTIFUL HORSES

Friday March 14 was a great day for a group of us residents. We rose early and got on the Bus in VeronaWalk before the Sun was out.

Our group ate, drove, and ate some more until we got to our destinations. We made two stops. In this post we will share pictures of the Lipizzaner Stallions.

The featured stop was to see the beautiful dancing horses on their farm in central Florida. These horses were rescued from destruction by the Soviet troops in WW II by Gen. George Patton. They have since found a home in the US and frequently perform in various cities.

We got the opportunity to watch them train, and to visit with them in both the corral and stable.  Below are a couple pictures of these fine animals. In a day or so I'll develop the pictures from Soloman's Castle. For now enjoy the horses.





 

*****

Thursday, March 13, 2014

BE SAFE - LOCK YOUR DOOR



This Blog's Safety Guy was talking with us recently and promised to give us some tips for our personal safety. They came in a couple of days ago, but we have been lax about posting articles until now.

Our friend jotted some notes. First - Stay Alert. We live in a great area but often we just take things for granted. We feel safe but, because of that feeling, we often let our guard down. This is one of the biggest goofs we make. Whether home or out be aware of your environment.

At the Mall park near the entry, or as close as possible. When leaving be aware of someone who may follow you towards your car. If you sense something is wrong go back to store, call 911, and get near other people.  Tell a Deputy "Why" you called. Don't be embarrassed. They are there to help. Make mental notes about the situation and provide the deputy with a concise accurate report.

Second - When you are home think of your Gate House as the first line of defense. Don't think it is foolproof. It is not. Be smart and, of the things to do, the number one is: Lock Your Door.

When in your home our Safety Guy advises us to take advantage of our alarm system. This is fully paid for in the monthly dues, and is a major defense against burglaries or home invasions, so: Use Your Alarm even when you are home.

If a situation arises Act Wisely. Locate a real deputy. Trust only him to do his job.

Recognize that you alone are responsible for your safety.  


*****

The Safety Guy is retired from Law Enforcement and has real experience with the criminal community. He often contributes tips to this blog that are based on experience and common sense with no ulterior motives. 


                                    

Wednesday, March 12, 2014

COMMUNITY GROUP TO TAKE A TRIP TO "THE STAGE"

The VeronaWalk Gentlemen's Group is sponsoring a community trip to THE STAGE.  This is a dinner-theater in Bonita Springs.

The group will see a tribute band perform Simon & Garfunkle on March 27th  Cost is $49.00 plus tax/tip/bar.

This is a repeat of a successful outing last year where the group saw Neil Diamond.

If you wish to attend call THE STAGE and make your reservation.

*****

Monday, March 10, 2014

MOON BEAMS


The other night I noticed I could see across the Lake. It was a nice night and the Moon was bright. The reflection was good. So I clicked one to see what it looked like. Here it is (above).


******

Sunday, March 9, 2014

USA SHOW FINALLY PUT TO SLEEP



The big shoe (If Ed Sullivan could only have seen it) is finally over. Thank God !

I know the Cast is tired. They tapped and sung forever just in practice. It all paid of as Town Center was sold out three nights in a row.

My little job was to click and edit a couple of pictures. Now that its all history I am going to get my undies back from guy who borrowed them, and get in my 57 Chevy and ride, ride, ride.

Saturday, March 8, 2014

BOWLING AND EATING

Friday !  That is when it is Bowling Time for our gang.

The Group now has around two dozen members. In addition they are in a league. I don't think the pay a lot of attention to those Rules. There is too much laughter.

Following the games there is Lunch. This seems to be some members' focus. Each week it is a different place.

Friday, March 7, 2014

BOGUS ENDORSEMENT CIRCULATING IN VW

This community is having its' very first election and at least one anonymous communication is circulating to our residents.

The writer speaks in the plural "We" but not one valid name appears on the return address.

Is this a big deal? It might mean nothing in the end, but even the "smear ads" that we often see on TV have the name of the person or group that paid for it.

The fictitious signature is still a juvenile act. It's time to grow up.

Thursday, March 6, 2014

SAM SNEAD'S - RECORD ATTENDANCE

The March 5th VeronaWalk Gentlemen's Luncheon had a record attendance. Fifty-three signed up, and fifty-five showed up.

The Staff  at Sam Snead's was well prepared and got the food orders out extremely fast. From the reports it was good. Your V.W. Reporter had the Salmon and was one happy camper.

Our Music Man brought his guitar and performed his very own arrangement of McNamara's Band.  He cleverly used the names of everyone who lives in "The Walk" and also advertised every restaurant in Naples.

On top of all that we had a choice of Key Lime Pie or Coconut Creme Pie. Both were great. 

*******

Sunday, March 2, 2014

TIME OUT !!!

We took a "Time Out" the other day. Took the car and drove to Bayfront Park. There we sat for a couple of hours. I enjoyed reading my book, and clicking a few pictures. It was just another Great Florida Day !!!

Here are a couple pictures to share.



Saturday, March 1, 2014

MARCH DATES TO REMEMBER

The way my mind has been working I almost forgot to ask the wife regarding who is celebrating what and when, and why I have to note it. 

I must be getting "grumpy".  Anyway all by myself  I recall one Young Lady deserving attention later on this month. 

I am sure she knows who she is. Check around the 27th for a note on this event.

I also remembered these notations are the wife's job.