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M e adoword The Meadoword December 2020 The Meadows Community News and Lifestyle Volume 38, Number 10

MANASOTA, FL

U.S. POSTAGE

PRESORTED

STANDARD

PERMIT 61

PAID

lifting

COMMUNITY UPCOMING RENAISSANCEs ACCESSpiritsWRITE BUSINESS NEWS ACTIVITIES & EVENTS ACTIVITIES STUFF DIRECTORY Pages 2–8 Pages 11 Pages 14-15 Page 22-24 Pages 26–27 2 THE MEADOWORD December 2020

THE SPIRIT OF UNITY Jan Lazar—MCA Board President

HE MEADOWS- it even just lived through one of the most networks and price ranges for TSOUNDS like a tranquil, difficult periods in recent memory. those who want to enjoy what The pleasant place to be. We are Loss of jobs, closing of long valued Meadows has to offer. We work so lucky to live in a wonderful businesses, stock market gyrations- hard to meet the various needs community surrounded by natural each has added stress and had and interests of our community. beauty. As we have just celebrated impacts within our community as Thanksgiving, in many cases well as the larger community and We do this within the framework without most of our traditional throughout the nation. of our governing documents, gatherings, we remember all for policies and a variety of legal which we are thankful. We look We need to keep in mind that parameters for deed restricted forward to the seasonal holidays more things are common to us communities such as ours. It’s with hope and anticipation of a than separate us. It is a time to never an easy task to weigh all the healthier and safer new year. look to a future working together variables in making any significant to improve our community, decision. When you have almost The most important thing for all of us to be mindful of is that we are one community, sharing our daily We will begin the new season with lives and interacting in common space with friends, neighbors renewed optimism about the and people we don’t know. As a community, we welcome seasonal vibrant future of The Meadows. friends and new visitors each year. We look forward to seeing people enhance our lifestyle, increase 3,500 homes, a nursing home, a we have missed. We enjoy the our property values and make graduated living facility, a small chance to make new friends and to The Meadows a highly desirable, shopping/business center and share our wonderful community diverse community where all feel a country club, the number of with others. welcome and we enjoy ourselves factors and opinions affecting and each other. We can look any decision are too numerous to As we move out of a prolonged outside ourselves and our very real itemize. But we work diligently period of stress for all caused daily worries and see the bright, as a community to balance

Community News by the continuing impact and beautiful life around us. requirements, desires, options threat of COVID, uncertainty and costs to optimize our overall of our future national and local The leadership and staff of MCA community livability, affordability, leadership during seemingly are committed to creating the desirability, and economic value. unending election campaigns, environment that enables us to and our inability to travel, visit have that present and future. We hope that each of you values and move about without added We work for the common good your community as much as we constraints due to public health in a spirit of understanding and value you. We will begin the new concerns, we know that we have cooperation. We know that each season with renewed optimism of us has our own particular about the vibrant future of The interests, things we value, things Meadows. that we are indifferent to, and We work for the common good in a spirit things we don’t particularly like. But that said, we all know that of understanding and cooperation. we offer a wide range of diverse activities, housing types, social

We wish you a happy holiday season and a wonderful healthy and peaceful New Year!

Our Vision Our Mission To be known as a well-maintained, welcoming, safe To preserve the property values, ambiance community with up-to-date housing, activities and and vitality of our community. services designed to meet the needs of all residents. December 2020 THE MEADOWORD 3

Keeping Your Spirits Lifted Frances Rippcondi—MCA General Manager

he holiday season is the time the character of the course and miles of walking paths. You will be After paying homage to the past, Tdesignated for family and prevent the atrophied, compacted sure to forget your worries! being mindful of the present, look friends to come together and course from failing, which would to the future. Knowing changes are celebrate what matters most – result in a catastrophic turf loss, Another great way to improve coming gives us something to look each other. Without a doubt, unsightly golf course green views your mood is by taking advantage forward to. The new Community COVID-19 has challenged our and reduced playability. Upon of what is being offered. If Lifestyle and Wellness Facility ability to gather and celebrate completion of the Meadows, you haven’t picked up your which is under design to replace exactly like years past, but it residents will be able to enjoy Renaissance Access Card what the aging Dickens facility, will offer doesn’t take away our ability to the renewed tranquil setting and are you waiting for? Get your card residents opportunities to improve reflect on our accomplishments beautiful green vistas for years today by calling the MCA and their physical health, wellness and or all the exciting plans for the to come. making an appointment! social connections. This building’s new year. multi-functional spaces will The adoption of the The Renaissance Access plan was allow flexibility to develop a wide So, if your spirits need a little Environmental Policy by MCA devised between the MCA and range of activities which will suit lifting, look to the past, embrace board was another step in TMCC Strategic team with the everyone’s interests. the present, but plan for the protecting our land for the future. community in mind. The goal is future. That is what The Meadows The support of this policy is to protect our assets as well as Next year, promises to be an Community Association is doing instrumental in assuring that enhance The Meadows lifestyle equally exciting filled with growth on a daily basis. Thanks to the our wildlife habitats and ponds and recreational offerings for and accomplishments. Our goal perseverance of the MCA Board, are protected. Low maintenance our residents. is to continue to protect the the MCA /The Meadows Country zones, a grass or planted lake land, expand social, learning Club Strategic team, Committees, bank edge, once a foreign concept If you want to improve your and recreational offerings and Associations, volunteers and MCA is now encouraged by the board mental and physical health - get continue to improve The Meadows staff working together, our vision and has been adopted by 27 out moving. Join a fitness class, learn assets. is becoming a reality. of 30 associations whose property how to play tennis/golf, swim, border on lakes. This step single- or workout with weights at the I am looking forward to the We can most definitely be proud handedly is the easiest and most Dickens facility, but have fun! opportunities that next year brings of the fact that only three years effective method to preserve our and I wish you all a safe and ago the Renaissance Plan was lake bank edges and ponds. The Don’t forget the importance of Happy New Year. conceived. At first no one really MCA and Water and Wildlife socializing either. The best way understood what it meant but Committee have also planted to stay healthy and keep your today everyone is aware that it’s over 3,000 aquatic plants in our spirits elevated is connecting a plan to change and improve common area ponds. and interacting with one The Meadows the assets of The Meadows by another. Building relationships RENAISSANCE ACCESS CARD preserving our open space, Explore new areas and look at and connections boosts OWNER enriching our lifestyle and recent improvements throughout your health, reduces stress, TENANT LEASE DATE enhancing our beauty. The Meadows. Enjoy the present and increases your levels of EXP DATE and stroll around Butterfly happiness. Connections can be The preservation of open space Lake. It will not only improve made virtually or in person. exists today because the MCA your physical health but elevate If you feel safer staying board had the vision and insight your mood as you watch wildlife at home participate in a to purchase the Meadows Country feeding within the recently planted virtual exercise, webinar or Club land and buildings as a way of aquatic vegetation. In your travels, learning class. protecting the greenspace. Today, experience the relaxing setting and changes continue to take place as recently refreshed shelled walking Breaking out of your the renovation of the Meadows paths and landscaped areas by the routine, and trying new golf course is almost completed. Map Island and 17th St. lake. Take things is another way This critical renovation was done a walk over the newly repaired elevate your mood. By to preserve our asset, restore bridges that connect you to over 14 simply experiencing new dining opportunities you will expand RENAISSANCE your tastebuds and your social ACCESS CARDS horizons. Here in The Meadows, you can try new epicurean delights If you are a homeowner or without leaving the community. an annual tenant who has For the month of December, already picked up your card, Renaissance Access card holders we are extending privileges can enjoy Sunday brunch at the through December of 2021. Regency Room and dine in the For those who have not yet evening at the Fountain View picked up their Renaissance Lounge from November through Access Card, contact Debbie December. Also available year- Lord at the MCA and she will round is outdoor dining under the be happy to assist you. oak tree canopies at the Centre Court Lounge. 4 THE MEADOWORD December 2020

The Season Dedicated to Peace On Earth and Goodwill to All Our Community in These Troubled Times Bob Clark—Standards Chair

ecause of the early deadline The Meadows you can see that we community. The most common should be submitted to the MCA Bfor Meadoword articles I am have been gifted a legacy of natural problems we encounter involve for an architectural review before writing this before the results beauty that is worth preserving for roofs and driveways. installation. If you reside in a of the Presidential election are the future. Paying forward is the residence governed by a condo known. Regardless of the outcome, way that we can pass this gift on to If your roof is dirty or your driveway association or an HOA, there may I hope we can all come together future generations. in need of cleaning or repair, the already be rules governing the and work on making this great best first step to correct this is to style of mailbox that is permitted. nation of ours a place that holds a The vast majority of the residents get a quote from a power washing bright future for all of our citizens. living in The Meadows have taken company. If you are concerned The COVID pandemic has made In 1864, a time when this nation to the spirit of paying forward in the about potential damage to your this a tough year for everyone was divided like never before, way they care for their homes and roof, there are companies that especially for those who have had Abraham Lincoln asked the nation property. The Standards Committee provide this service in a manner to fight the disease or lost a friend to move forward during his second is tasked with the responsibility of that will preserve the integrity of or loved one. Throughout this inaugural address when he spoke reminding those few who need to your roofing material. The MCA crisis the staff of the MCA and the the words “With malice toward correct some problem that detracts office maintains a list of service volunteers have done a great job of none, with charity to all…” Good from the overall quality of our providers compiled by residents preserving as much normalcy as is advice then and good advice now. who have had a good experience possible under the circumstances. with a particular vendor. May the glow of this special time Here in The Meadows we do come "With malice of the year contribute to lifting together as a community to work toward none, One area which has recently your spirit and give you hope for a toward common goals for the come before the Standards better tomorrow. benefit of all of our residents. That is with charity Committee involves the shown in the hard work displayed in installation of mailboxes. As with the way we maintain our homes and to all…” any improvement to the exterior the pride we take in our common Abraham Lincoln of your property a new mailbox space. When you drive through

New to The Meadows?

Be sure to visit our Architectural Review October Approved Applications MCA Website for: • Documents 3016 Highlands Bridge Rd 2877 Ringwood Meadow • Activities and Events Chelmsford Close Condo Assn 4305 Highland Oaks Cir • News and More Chelmsford Close Condo Assn 4951 Windsor Park https://www.themeadowssarasota.org/ 3866 Surrey Court 4848 Greywood Ln 5271 Everwood Run 4822 Greencroft Rd 3149 Heatherwood Ln Morningside Condo Assn 3376 Highlands Bridge 4701 Greencroft Rd 2952 Longleat Woods 4843 Marsh Field Rd Villas of Papillon Condo Assn 5025 Marsh Field Rd 4492 Highland Oaks Cir 3013 Rosemead 4709 Harvest Bend 4951 Waterbridge Down Chanteclaire Condo Assn 3834 Surrey Ct Vivienda Condo Assn 4313 Highland Oaks Cir 1915 Dalecroft 4915 Waterbridge Down December 2020 THE MEADOWORD 5

Assembly of Property Owners Mike Mazur—Assembly Committee Chair

t the November 18, 2020 crucial to financially preparing for to increase awareness of safety offering best wishes for health, AAssembly meeting, the long term replacements for aging devices, methods, resources and happiness, and good fortune. Delegates per the Assembly Rules, structures and equipment. protocols for our association The Meadows is a wonderful narrowed the field of applicants leaders. Further down the place to live healthy and to be for the Board of Directors to five Also on the program for calendar, look for another legal happy. Our good fortune is to - two over the number of open November’s meeting was a Q&A session which is always have the opportunity to live in positions. The five nominees will presentation of the proposed 2021- lively and informative bringing this beautiful community. Health, appear on the ballots that will 2022 Budget for the Meadows the knowledge and expertise happiness and good fortune be sent to all Meadows property Community Association by of attorneys in the community to you! owners in mid-January 2021 when MCA Treasurer Fernando Viteri. association area to the forefront. the Annual Assessment invoices Questions and comments were are released. The January 2021 addressed and will be shared with As I ponder the close of 2020, I issue of The Meadoword will the Board of Directors as they have fond memories of the Holiday contain a piece on each nominee. deliberate its adoption. traditions shared by my Polish immigrant grandparents especially The November program “Reserve As we move forward into the new the Oplatek, a wafer shared one- Studies – Importance and year, your Assembly Executive on-one with family and friends Process” was presented by Patricia Committee is preparing an Staebler, Principal of Staebler assortment of programs for the Appraisal and Consulting. She January through May program The five nominees will appear on the ballots covered this all-important topic period. We are on hiatus for in detail and provided much food December, but in development that will be sent to all Meadows property for thought for our association for January 21, 2021 meeting, owners in mid-January 2021 when the leaders. In our association we are working in conjunction communities, adequate and with the Safety Committee Annual Assessment invoices are released. regularly-evaluated reserves are Chair on a program designed

‘I am grateful for what I am and have. My gratitude is perpetual.’ – Henry David Thoreau

Whether you’re gathering around a table or saying thanks around a computer screen, please know our hearts are with you and your family this holiday season. We are always grateful for your business, friendship and to work in a such a breathtaking community like The Meadows. We’re proud to be your Meadows real estate experts. Call us to discuss your goal for the new year.

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Your Meadows A Look Ahead Neighborhood Tom Pound—MHOA President Real Estate Team

DONOVAN HAYES GROUP t is no accident that major to show your spirit, take the If you are a MHOA member and Ireligions have December time to tell your neighbors you would like to be part of this DIANA DONOVAN celebrations. A time to reflect on appreciate them, send out actual two-way communication, send 941.539.7608 the past year and look ahead to the holiday cards with personal notes, your current email address to: [email protected] new. A time to decorate our homes but most of all reflect on all the MeadowsHomeownersSarasota@ inside and out. How about a little things you have to celebrate even gmail.com & extra this year? Could your home in this most unusual year. TERRY HAYES be that special spot that gives 941.302.3100 people a smile when they drive by? On a business note, we have some If you aren’t currently a [email protected] new beginnings at MHOA. Thanks Like many of you, this will be the to the efforts of board member member, please join us. first year since moving to Florida Mike Cox, the MHOA has launched that Sue and I don’t travel to a monthly newsletter! It is designed It’s only $15 a celebrate with our children and to keep our membership informed grandchildren. As born-and-raised of board meeting business and year or $25 for two years. northerners, getting in the spirit discussions, but it doesn’t stop without snow and cold takes some there. The second portion is for Happy Holidays! effort, but bright lights, music and member input to raise and discuss Coldwell Banker sold more smiling faces (even with masks) issues important to our single- homes in The Meadows than any remind us of the true meaning family homeowners. Some of other brokerage 2019 - 2020! of love and celebration and the you have received the first issues promise of new and better days! already in your email. If you are a We are here, prepared and member and haven’t received it, it’s can handle entire So, bake some extra cookies for because we don’t have your current transactions virtually. your friends, decorate your home email address. Let our proven success work for you!

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MEDICAL DERMATOLOGY | MOHS SURGERY | AESTHETIC & LASER SERVICES | SKIN CARE PRODUCTS December 2020 THE MEADOWORD 7 SAFETY WATCH Holiday Safe Shopping Cathy Duff—Law Enforcement Deputy, Crime Prevenion Unit

he holiday season is always when you are in any area. In The Parking Lot matter how you choose to do your Ta special time of year. Remember where you parked shopping, remaining vigilant and Unfortunately, thieves often use • Shop during the day when your car. While this may sound implementing a few simple safety the holiday season to find easy possible, avoid shopping alone elementary, many shopping precautions while shopping can targets. As you shop, please be after dark. centers are spread out over large mitigate crimes of opportunity. mindful of the following safety tips areas. Being unable to locate a car to help keep your holiday shopping • Keep your purse and bags closed can cause you undue confusion Before you start your online safe and joyous! at all times. and stress that may make you an shopping, remember to STOP. easy target to a criminal. THINK. CONNECT. Make sure Did you know? • Credit cards are the safest form security measures are in place, and • In 2019 Black Friday saw 93.2 of payment. • Always park in an open and well- enjoy the benefits of the internet. million buyers shopping online. lit area. • Do not buy more than you can • Shop from a secure network • Millennials were the biggest comfortably carry or ask a store • Lock your doors and don’t connection such as your home, spenders on Black Friday 2019. employee to assist you to your leave valuables in your vehicle— avoid using public Wi-Fi. vehicle. including purchases! • Black Friday online shopping • Ensure your anti-virus software sales hit $7.4 billion in 2019 which • Consolidate your purchase into • Be alert and off of your cell phone is updated on your home computer is an all-time high. larger bags. when in a parking lot. and mobile devices.

• In person shopper visits on Black • Avoid wearing expensive jewelry • Be ready to unlock your car • Use strong passwords even if Friday 2019 fell down by 6.2% or handbags. before leaving a store. online retailers are accepting from 2018. “weak” ones allowing your • Jugging, or stalking of potential • Do not resist if someone tries information to become susceptible • 56% of online shoppers use victims as a prelude to robbery is to take any of your belongings – to fraudulent activity. their mobile device for holiday on the rise: nothing is worth your life. shopping. • Use familiar and safe • If you must use an ATM, websites (indicated by a • Identity theft and robberies are choose one located inside a bank lock symbol or https://). two of the most common crimes or mall rather than a stand-alone during the holiday season. machine, and make sure it is in a • Save receipts and review well-lit area. your statements regularly • Identity theft accounted for for discrepancies. 20.33% of cases and was the most- • Pay attention to who and what common type of fraud in 2019. is around you when leaving an • Consider having ATM or bank. packages sent to a work • 51% of online retailers do not address if you will not be attempt to lock a consumer out • Only withdraw the amount of home during delivery and after 10 incorrect login attempts; cash needed and never leave Online Shopping utilize online in-store pick up or therefore, fraudsters have an cash in your car. Undoubtedly COVID-19 will ship-to-store options. unlimited number of attempts into further influence people to shop your online profile/account. • If you feel like someone is online. In an effort to minimize While Shopping following you, contact security or larger crowds typically found law enforcement right away. If you on Black Friday many retailers Be aware of your surroundings. are driving, do not go have already begun Black Friday Look for suspicious persons, etc. straight home. deals online and in stores. No

The Meadows, Hub of Sarasota Resales ending the months of October 2020 and October 2019 In The Meadows & Sarasota County SALES THE MEADOWS SARASOTA COUNTY Sales 2020 & 2019 ↑2020 (17) 2019 (14) ↑2020 (1146) 2019 (907) Median Sale Price ↑$178,000 $173,000 ↑$323,500 $255,000 Condominium Sales ↑2020 (16) 2019 (12) ↑2020 (379) 2019 (291) Med Condo Sale Price ↑$177,500 $167,500 ↑$254,900 $215,500 House Sales ↓2020 (01) 2019 (02) ↑2020 (767) 2019 (616) Med House Sale Price ↓$256,000 $266,500 ↑$345,500 $280,000 For sale on the 31st ↓2020 (24) 2019 (55) ↓2020 (2085) 2019 (3356) Property Pending ↑2020 (40) 2019 (23) ↑2020 (1777) 2019 1139) Listing Supply ↓2020 (1.4) 2019(3.9) ↓2020 (1.8) 2019 (3.7)

Dick Plumb, 23 years Full-time Resident, Specializing in listing & selling homes in “The Meadows”. Call Anytime Direct 941-266-2512 [email protected] Horizon Realty International 8 THE MEADOWORD December 2020

Heat Records Continue to “Fall” Roy Wysnewski— October 2020 Climate Analysis

Weather Analysis the Caribbean. As these systems The Meadows’ “dry” season RAINFALL & TEMPERATURE DATA developed into hurricanes, they (October-May) began in a rainy moved into the Gulf then northward fashion. Following a very wet Meadows Airport making devastating impacts on the September, we measured 4.52 Rainfall–4.52 in. (YTD: 56.52 in.) Rainfall–3.75 in. (YTD: 47.86 in.) mainland United States. inches in October (86 percent 22 yr. rainfall avg.–2.43 in. Historical rainfall avg.–3.12 in. above normal). The airport also Because Caribbean water recorded above normal (20%) Average high-temp.–89 ° F Average high-temp.–88 ° F temperatures remain very warm, rainfall for October. This month’s Above normal high-temp. days: 25 Above normal high-temp. days: 24 another tropical storm has formed excess rain is attributed to a Record high-temp. days: 5 Record high-temp.days: 1 in the eastern Caribbean basin. late-year return of the historical Tropical storm Eta is expected to summer east-to-west storm addition to five new records this change ”puzzle” is within two become a hurricane during the pattern. Four of the five major month, there were 25 days with months of completion. The October first week of November and move rains (10/4, 10/10, 10/21, 10/26) above-average temperatures YTD Tracking Climate Change into Central America. There is a developed inland Florida and bringing the YTD total to 252, graph (below) continues to show possibility that the remnants of Eta moved west/northwest towards 71% above average. With air record-temperature increases could then move northward into the the Gulf Coast. The fifth and conditioners running overtime for (126%) during the past three southern Gulf of Mexico by Nov. 8 largest rain-maker, a 1.15-inch the 10th consecutive month, 2020 decades. where it would regain strength in Halloween-Eve rainfall, came is certainly on track to set a new the warm Gulf waters. With that in onshore from the Gulf as part of yearly high-temperature record! At the time of this writing, the last mind, residents in southwest Florida the season’s first cold front. month of this year’s record-setting should remain vigilant. We never Presented in the graph below are six-month hurricane season is know when one of these rapidly As the headline of this month’s the monthly rainfall and high- about to begin. In review, it’s clear forming late-season tropical storms column implies, we are five temperature data. that climate change influenced will suddenly decide to head in our weeks into the "Fall” season and abnormally high Caribbean/Gulf direction! who would believe that high- Climate Analysis of Mexico water temperatures, temperature records continue After assembling 305 digital data thus, leading to a record number Comments or Questions,Contact: to be set in The Meadows? In pieces, the 2020 tracking climate of tropical systems forming in [email protected]

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10 THE MEADOWORD December 2020 Crafters Possess a Special Talent

Gretchen Cochran

ou know that finger game you stalwarts, some having been with someone had donated to the Yplay with children, “the eensy the group more than a decade. crafters for completion. Sharon weensy spider went up the water Godlewski had sewn a pile of spout, down came the rain…?” With nimble fingers, they work multi-colored face masks. Besides being fun and silly, it on various projects. Helene teaches wee ones’ finger dexterity, DiPuma, chief organizer way We use those fine motor skills a skill they will need the rest of back in 2005, is one of the every day to get dressed, eat, write, their lives. And it’s a characteristic seamstresses, having sewn or even change the channel on possessed by every crafter. placemats, table runners and the the television. Fine motor skills like. The craft group is more than are important to maintain to Just try crocheting, the art of finger work for her. remain as independent as possible, hooking yarn with a thing called a gerontologists say. crochet hook and winding it in and “I enjoy the comradery. It’s a out through your fingers making great bunch of girls,” she said. Besides exercising fingers, crafting a series of slip knots. (Try not to The women bring a variety of challenges the brain as well. The swear.) Likewise, sewing involves crafters will needles thrust in and out of fabric, continue fingers pushing and pulling. honing their Precision is critical. Embroidery manual is similar but more complex, with dexterity,

Our Lifestyle ever more intricate stitches having producing names like “raised seed stitch” and beautiful “lazy daisy”. Quilters employ a wares and magnifying glass to make their tiny special gifts. stitches. Beaders use miniscule bits of glass threaded onto hair-thin wires then woven into complex shapes. Greeting card creators cut tiny slivers of colored paper then glue those in delicate layers to create images like dashing dogs and flamboyant flowers. If you

Weekly, across the crafting can glue, room at The Meadows Community Center, you we want you. could see fingers creasing book pages or gently wrapped around brushes, painting decoupage onto various surfaces, and some applying glue and sprinkling it with glitter. talents, many of them practicing Then came COVID-19. The skills handed down from their gatherings stopped in March. But grandmothers. our crafters’ fingers did not stop working. Many of them crocheted, “My grandmother crocheted,” sewed, folded, beaded and painted said Kathy Easley, “as did at home, some because they my mother. But my mother needed something to do with was left-handed. I had to get a their hands. book to learn how to do it. She did everything backwards.” It’s been eight months since Kathy returned to the MCA with the pandemic was declared but crocheted baby buntings and in mid-October a trickle of the matching hats plus an intricate crafters returned to the MCA. baby blanket. They are reconvening henceforth, every Wednesday at 9 a.m. Their “This is what you do when you’re number is reduced significantly home all summer,” she quipped. (after all, the Canadians among others aren’t here yet) but these Harriet Hergenrother had put now-masked women are the together crocheted quilt squares December 2020 THE MEADOWORD 11 Upcoming Activities and Events

MCA Holiday Party • Thursday December 10, 5 pm – 8 pm • Ugly Sweater Contest • Location: MCA Parking Lot, under the stars, • Dance Off Competition surrounded by holiday lights • 4 Course hot meal, cash libations • Tickets $20—Sign up early LIMITED SEATING • Live entertainment Purchase by credit card on MCA website Lifestyle page or Call MCA at 941-377-2300

PICKLEBALL CLINICS

Wednesday, December 9—12–3 pm Intermediate 12–1 pm Advanced beginner 1–2pm Beginner 2–3 pm Tuesday, December 29—12–3 pm Intermediate 12–1 pm Advanced beginner 1–2pm Beginner 2–3 pm

Photo by: Linder Photo Jacques Tuesday, January 12—9 am–12 pm Intermediate 9–10 am Advanced beginner 10–11 am Beginner 11–12 pm Bird Walk led by Sarasota Thursday, January 28—9 am–12 pm Intermediate 9–10 am Audubon Society Advanced beginner 10–11 am Beginner 11–12 pm December 8, 8:15 a.m. Cost is $10 per session Contact Ron Albers at Meets outside in front of MCA building [email protected] To sign up, visit the Lifestyle page on our website. Reservations required, 8 participants per session maximum.

WAG MORE SARASOTA Providing quality care for your furry family members • Dog Walking • Pet Sitting • Training

Cathy Brush-Owner 941-724-3190

wagmoresarasota.com [email protected] 12 THE MEADOWORD December 2020 Halloween Fun December 2020 THE MEADOWORD 13

COMMUNITYCOMMUNITY BULLETINBULLETIN BOARDBOARD

Merry Christmas MCA Offices Will Be Closed For The Holidays Thursday December 24 Friday December 25 Thursday December 31 Friday January 1, 2021

SAVE A LIFE. GIVE BLOOD.

Toys for Tots Drop off box at the MCA through December 11 SunCoast Blood Drive Thursday December 17 7 am-1 pm MCA Parking Lot

Toys for Tots helps so many less fortunate children share in the magic of the holiday. NOTICE Its easy, drop off new, unwrapped toys in Pickleball courts are for residents their original box at the Toys for Tots drop and members ONLY. Courts will be off box, located on the Public side of the

periodically monitored by our building through December 11 and make Safety Patrol. the holidays bright for a child. Thank you. 14 THE MEADOWORD December 2020

Sunday Brunch in Regency

Sunday Brunch $24.95++ in the newly renovated Regency room will begin December 1 and run through the end of the month. Gather the family and enjoy this treat, as a Renaissance Access Card holder.

Fountain View Lounge (FVL) open for dinner to Renaissance Access Card holders through the end of December. Call for reservations 941-371-6000.

Regency and FVL menus are on the MCA website under LIFESTYLE/RENAISSANCE/DINING & SOCIAL Renaissance Activities The Spirit of Entertaining Ashley Watts—Outside Catering Director, The Meadows Country Club

ell, this is undoubtedly a host a plethora of smaller Holiday are your one-stop-shop for your Wlittle different this year! I gatherings. From an intimate, hosting needs. Items such as Mini can barely remember last year, beautiful dinner in our stately Beef Wellingtons, Duck Confit, but 2020 feels smaller and cozier. Boardroom, warmth from the gas Empanadas, and our always I think there will be more time for fireplace overlooking the pond on spectacular cheese and fruit loved ones and those we hold dear our Fountain View Lounge Patio carvings are sure to please any as we are not as distracted with the or under the Tennis Deck’s twinkle guest and make your job as the hustle and bustle as we all try to lights, we have six different spaces host that much easier! stay safe. to host whatever kind of special event you are considering not to Call or email, 941-377-8552 Here at The Meadows Country mention our grand new Regency [email protected]. Club, we are all about keeping you Room ballroom!! I am always here to help. safe while still being able to feel like it’s the holiday season. Not If you feel like hosting at home Wishing you a only is our Fountain View Lounge (it is better with staff), don’t wonderful and joyful coming up with delicious weekly forget our off-site catering menu. holiday season. specials and fun tipples, but we are With delivery in The Meadows also using our unique campus to and wine available as well, we December 2020 THE MEADOWORD 15

Renaissance Access Fitness Schedules Crystal Romeo—Athletic Director, The Meadows Country Club

Fitness Center Hours Monday-Friday 7am-7pm, Saturday 7 am-4 pm Monday-Friday 7AM-7PM, Saturday 7 AM-4 PM To workout in the Fitness Center you must complete the orientation prior to the use of the equipment. To workoutto schedule in the Fitness your fitness Center youorientations must complete via Zoom the email; orientation [email protected] prior to the use of the equipment.

Daily pool hours: To7:30 schedule am-7:00 your pm, fitnessexcluding orientations inclement via weather, Zoom email; during [email protected] water aerobics classes and private events. Wednesday 11:20-12:30, Friday from 11:50 am-1 pm, Tuesdays & Thursdays 2:50-4 PM No guests are permitted in the fitness center at this time. Current pool hours: 7:30 AM-7:00 PM, excluding inclement weather, during water aerobics Check with the fitness center on all schedules as they are subject to change. No guests are permitted in the fitness center at this time. classes and private events. The pool is closed Monday, Wednesday 11:20-12:30, Friday from 11:50 AM-1 PM, Tuesdays & Thursdays 2:50-4 PM Check with the fitness center on all schedules as they are subject to change. AAHA Accredited Bay Road

Animal

PRACTICE HOURS: Hospital Monday – Friday: 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM Saturday & Sunday: East CLOSED New Beginnings LLC Beautiful new

Home Services location on the New clients and Licensed Home Inspections corner of 17th Street & patients are always Services Honore Avenue welcome (including Residential inspections Pool & Spa inspections dogs, cats, birds, and Four-point home inspections exotics) Wind mitigation & air quality

As residents of

the Meadows and a husband-

wife inspection team, we take pride in serving our clients with excellence. David J. Smith, VMD

Contact us Philip & Susie Pala 5292 17th Street 941-993-6920 Sarasota, FL 34235 [email protected] 941.378.1236

www.newbeginningshome.com

16 THE MEADOWORD December 2020

Christmas Memories—The Italian Cook Bonnie Detwiler—Chatsworth Greene

found this season a bit difficult was also a round man under the "What am I going to do with you?" around. While he cooked I asked Ito write about, many of us will tree! A man? I asked, "how about I make you lots of questions about Italy celebrate with close friends right breakfast," said my new cook. "By and the language. He was like a here in The Meadows. Few of us I ran back upstairs, climbed to the way, my name is Chef Ravioli walking encyclopedia. I learned will be privileged to celebrate the top bunk and slid the covers and my specialty is lamb!" "Gross more from him than I could have with children and grandchildren. up over my face I was breathing I don't want any lamb waffles for ever learned from a book. So I went into my archives of hard and trying to think of who breakfast!" "What did you say?" "I photographs and articles they that man in my living room mean, may I please have waffles He stayed with us until have written and decided to share could be. Maybe he's a burglar. I for breakfast, I asked. "Of course, summertime, and then he came with you an article written by my along on our family vacation to grandson Matthew when he was Italy. Ravioli showed me nine years old. Currently he is a around Rome and taught me junior in college!! all kinds of Italian phrases, our last stop was Venice. We Matthew titled his article, The went to Chef Ravioli's house Italian Cook. and decided to leave him there with his own family. It's Christmas Eve! I can't wait until I get my presents! I did not know I was going to get an Italian cook for I had written a letter to Santa Christmas, but Chef Ravioli and mailed it by December 1. I turned out to be my best told him I've been a good boy present ever! this year. I had better grades in school. I made my bed every day. I hope this brought a smile to I was nice to my dog, and I didn't your face as it does to mine push my sister off a cliff...yet I every time I read it. just scared her a few times. I also filled him in on what I wanted Celebrate this beautiful this year: Ripleys 2007 book, season with your family, if a digital camera, Nintendo DS possible, and your friends! and an Italian book to help me Happy holidays! understand the language before my family goes there this summer. It wasn't the neatest letter, and I mistakenly spilled a few drops of hot cocoa on it, but I had to hurry and mail it in time for Christmas.

After dinner on Christmas Eve I put out six thin mint Girl Scout cookies for Santa and a big glass of milk. I helped my dad sprinkle reindeer food on the roof, and then my family and I played carols on the piano. Then it was time thought maybe he's here to steal coming right up," Chef Ravioli for bed. the presents. I decided to get my said, with a smile. flyswatter, just in case. I walked I had a hard time falling asleep cautiously back downstairs. The My waffles were ready in no time because I was so excited for house smelled like eggs and greasy and they were delicious, "these are tomorrow. But I finally managed bacon I looked in the kitchen, and the best waffles in the world, what to doze off and I slept until 5:30 there he was. "Cioa" The man said, did you put in them?" I asked, "a am. When I woke up, I jumped " I am the Italian cook you wanted, secret ingredient," the chef said. from the top bunk. It was still would you like some eggs and Do you really want to know?" "Yes, slightly dark and snowing outside. Prosecco?" "No thank you" I said, I really want to know,I insisted." The house was too quiet, and the " I wanted an Italian book, not an "Lamb," he said, "it goes great floor was too cold. I grabbed my Italian cook, Who sent you here?" with everything!" I did not argue, keychain flashlight from inside my I went straight to the bathroom. desk, and I quickly tiptoed down "Santa, of course. Santa picked me From that day on, I watched chef the slick stairs. up last night from Venice. He was ravioli while he cooked to make just in time, then I got to fly here sure I did not have lamb ever The tree was lit and full of bright on Santa sled. He tugged me down again. Chef Ravioli turned out to colors. There are billions of the chimney like a rug and told be good at making veggie dogs, Bonnie's grandchildren, Matthew 22 and Olivia 24. packages in every size and color me to be very quiet until someone corn dogs, pizza and gelato. My stacked underneath the tree. There came on Christmas morning." entire family loved having him December 2020 THE MEADOWORD 17 Twelve Thoughts on Pets for the Holidays David J. Smith, VMD—Bay Road Animal Hopsitals

1. Do not give pets for holiday 6. If you are taking pets to visit for these pets. Special food presents. Get a pet one month family for the holidays, pack additives are critical. Call your before or one month after the all needed medications and veterinarian for advice before holidays. food. buying these animals.

2. If you get a puppy as a 7. Dogs and cats love presents as 10. Many birds are not seed present, allow him to rest or much as we do. Buy safe gifts eaters. Investigate what type he may ‘run out of gas’ and and stay away from hard chew of cage and what foods are end up with low blood sugar. toys like antlers, beef bones, best prior to buying. and anything hard enough to 3. Do not allow your pets to eat break their teeth. 11. Make sure you have a phone holiday treats like chocolate number for a veterinarian or cookies. 8. Remember that foods with handy in case problems arise xylose as a sugar substitute in the hustle and bustle of the 4. Bones from beef or turkey can can be toxic, as well as raisins, holidays. get stuck in the gut of hungry grapes, and decorative plants. dogs and may need to be 12. Finally, enjoy your pets surgically removed. 9. Exotic pets, like lizards, because they are a very have special needs. Be sure important part of your family! 5. If you are traveling with your you have studied all of the pets on airlines, be sure to equipment needed to be have the required paperwork, successful with your new including health certificates, iguana or bearded dragon. needed to board the plane. Full spectrum light is essential 18 THE MEADOWORD December 2020

New Neighbors New Friends Ann Hamman-Hampstead Heath

t has been a challenging year in retired special education teacher. speaking of her new place here. Oak Court. Most recently she lived Imany ways, no doubt about it. "We love exploring, love the She is 15 minutes from her son and in Springlake in The Meadows. Even so, that has not stopped folks beach," she said. "There are so his family while her daughter and "I've lived in San Francisco and in Florida and around the country many places to see here and things her family are in New Jersey. in Connecticut and every place in from changing their address by to do." They will be back and forth between," she said. You can find moving. Hampstead Heath is no for now. Two new neighbors I talked to her and her dog, Sully, at the dog exception as we have seven or so moved in this fall - Sam Spano park frequently. "I'm extremely new neighbors. In contrast, Ruth Ann Stryhas, and Rosalie Hawkins. Sam is happy with Hampstead Heath, who closed on her place in March, living in a villa, which has been especially all the trees," she said. Joan and Larry Kolcz bought is here to stay. "I was looking in his family for many years; it their villa in April from Tim and for a place which was pretty and is now owned by his aunt, Jo Jo Among the places she has lived is Gail Haywood, active residents peaceful," she said. "And with a LaMantia. Sam, who moved Geneva, IL, home to the Kolczes. for many years. They have already garage." She was looking for the to Florida in 1994, has lived in Although they have not met, changed their residency from peace after her husband, Larry, Sarasota and in Lakewood Ranch. Rosalie is looking forward to Illinois to Florida. "My sister and died in the summer of 2018. "It's Before moving to Hampstead meeting them to see if they know her husband lived on Gulfstream, been difficult." Heath, he sold his place on some of the same people. so we visited them and fell in love Myrtlewood. "The Meadows is with The Meadows," Joan said. She and her husband lived in probably the nicest community Condo board member Janet "When we first moved in, we had Sarasota for 30 years and then in Florida," he said. "And we Schmidt is included with all of us two lawn chairs and snack trays in Bradenton for two years. The have a nice little community right who are very happy to have the new and an air mattress." couple had moved to Florida for here." He has four children with a neighbors as our board is short- the weather, as they were tired of daughter living in The Meadows handed. "We have a lot of new There is more furniture now, of the cold and liked the outdoors. and the others in New York. neighbors, which is very nice," she course, but Larry is still working Ruth Ann retired six years ago said. "I hope they will be interested in Geneva, IL, where he owns from her position as supervisor Rosalie also has a long history in in coming on our board." the Midwest Suburban Baseball of outpatient surgery at Doctors the city, moving with her husband League, which has as many as 50 Hospital for almost 25 years. "This here in 1991. They built a house teams in three divisions. Joan is a is what I needed," she added, in Palm Aire and later lived in December 2020 THE MEADOWORD 19

The Spirit of Volunteerism

BEST KEPT HOLDIAY DECORATION AWARDS DECEMBER 7–10

Time to decorate for the holidays. The festive lights and colorful, creative decorations will adorn The Meadows community for everyone’s enjoyment.

the Best Kept Committee will nominate and judge winners Deceomer 7 through 10. Photographs of winning displays will begin December 11, so please turn your decorative lights on by dusk.

Awards will be presented for three categories. Single Family Homes Association Entrances ancy Ebersole has worked at The Meadows precinct Chairman’s Choice N121 for 24 years. Despite the challenges this year, at 92 Nancy looked forward to working the polls during Election Each category wil have a first place $100 and runner-up $50 Day and seeing old friends and neighbors. She is a longtime prize. All six winners will receive a certificate and their check at the Assembly of Property Owners, January 20, 4:00 PM at Sarasota resident who has served as a clerk and assistant the MCA Community Center. The three first place winners will clerk, as a volunteer at The Meadows precinct. “That’s what I have a Best Kept sign on their property for three weeks. like about working in The Meadows,” she said. “I know a lot BE A PART OF THE FUN! of people in here, it's home.” Lesley Totten, Chairman, Best Kept Committee 20 THE MEADOWORD December 2020

Rocks, Pebbles and Sand.

philosophy professor once The professor went on to explain and relationships. This means that television, browsing through your Astood up before his class with that the jar represents everything if the pebbles and the sand were favorite social media site, or running a large empty mayonnaise jar. He that is in one's life. lost, the jar would still be full and errands. These things don't mean filled the jar to the top with large your life would still have meaning. much to your life as a whole, and are rocks and asked his students if the The rocks are equivalent to the most The pebbles represent the things in likely only done to fill/waste time or jar was full. important things you have going your life that matter, but that you get small tasks accomplished. on, such as spending time with your could live without. The pebbles are The students said that yes, the jar family, maintaining proper health certainly things that give your life What's the big lesson with the rock, was indeed full. meaning (such as your pebbles, and sand in a jar story? job, house, school, and He then added small pebbles hobbies), but they are not If you start with putting sand into to the jar, and gave the jar a bit critical for you to have the jar, you will not have room for of a shake so the pebbles could a meaningful life. These rocks or pebbles. This holds true disperse themselves among the things often come and go, with the things you let into your life larger rocks. Then he asked again, and are not permanent or too. If you spend all of your time on “Is the jar full now?” essential to your overall the small and insignificant things, well-being. you will run out of room for the The students agreed that the jar things that are actually important. was still full. Finally, the sand represents the remaining In order to have a more effective The professor then poured sand into filler things in your life, and efficient life, pay attention to the jar to fill up any remaining empty and material possessions. the “rocks,” prioritize the important space. The students then agreed that This could be small things because they are critical to the jar was completely full. things such as watching your long-term well-being.

HolidayTRIVIA If you are looking for some non- Settlers created the first If you've ever watched Clark controversial conversation starters American eggnog Griswold decorate his house for around the dinner table or in Christmas Vacation, that anytime during the holidays, here probably doesn't come as much of is some fun trivia fodder to fall a surprise. In fact, the Consumer back on. Product Safety Commission Santa's Image estimates that 14,700 people the store could give away as a visit hospital emergency rooms According to Coca Cola, Santa promotional gimmick. The store each November and December used to look a lot less jolly — even had been giving away coloring from holiday-related decorating spooky. It wasn't until 1931, when books for years, and decided to accidents. So please, be careful the beverage company hired make its own to save money. when you're decking your halls. an illustrator named Haddon The Jamestown settlers created Sundblom for magazine ads that "Jingle Bells" was originally a We ship a ton of packages at the first American batch of eggnog, we got the jolly old elf. Now, kids Thanksgiving song the holidays although it may not have tasted won't get nightmares when they quite the way we know and love dream of Christmas Eve. today. The word nog comes from the word grog; or any drink made with rum. So technically, an early nog didn't require the rich, milky base we now ladle out of grandma's cut-crystal punch bowl. Christmas decorating sends nearly 15,000 people to Turns out, we were originally the ER Between Thanksgiving and dashing through the snow for an New Year's Day last year, the entirely different holiday. James U.S. Postal Service delivered an Lord Pierpont wrote a song called estimated 910 million packages "One Horse Open Sleigh" for his — in addition to almost 15 billion Rudolph was a marketing ploy church's Thanksgiving concert. pieces of mail. That includes gifts Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Then in 1857, the song was re- for faraway loved ones, cards, first appeared in 1939 when the published under the title it still letters to Santa and those dreaded Montgomery Ward department holds today, and it eventually credit card bills after we put our store asked one of its copywriters became one of the most popular holiday purchases on plastic. to create a Christmas story Christmas songs. September 24, 2020 December 2020 THE MEADOWORD 21

Run Connie Run

Claire Beeman, Julie Nygaard, Connie Brown and Gail Hadley at the finish line.

onnie Brown, Meadows Country Club member and resident, ran Cher 42nd consecutive New York City Marathon on November 1. She was joined along the route by several Sarasota friends at different times during her race. Connie ran from The Cattlemen Road Transfer Station at 3:30 am and finished on Highland Park at 8:30 am Friends and neighbors cheered as she completed this virtual race. This is especially impressive since the New York City Marathon is one of the hardest to qualify for entry.

Congratulations Connie, a great accomplishment!

P L E A S E Do Not Feed the WILDLIFE

It is against state law to feed wildlife and fresh water fish. You never want to teach wildlife that YOU are their food source. They can forage for food on their own. 22 THE MEADOWORD December 2020 The Art of Aging Bob and Liz Barnett—Co-Memoir Coordinators

Oh, Mrs. Corker, I’m 30 today!” I announced to and bought an outfit that was totally inappropriate my next-door neighbor, the wise country woman for my age. I wore it happily when we went dancing who had taught me how to can tomatoes and make at The Escape where it was too dark to see what pickles. “I’ve gotten old,” I wailed. anyone was wearing.

“Did you expect to get young?” she replied. Today, I have accepted my age, although I am always a little shocked when doctors explain issues That took care of my aging anxiety until the clerk that are of concern for elderly patients. I even enjoy at Fruth Pharmacy gave me a senior discount my age when I see how kind people are to me. In when I was only 54. I immediately thought facelift, the story below, Vic Pathe experienced some of the liposuction, hair dye! In the end, I went to the mall kindness shown to folks of a certain age.

THE LADY ON THE BUS Vic Pathe

ccasionally, in the course of No use driving, I thought to myself, at this point something quite Onormal day-to-day activity, a I’ll take public transit. First, the bus remarkable happened. funny event can lift our spirits and to the Broadview Subway Station cause us to laugh. l remember when, and then the subway train to my “Would you like my seat?” the at the age of 31, I was asked for proof destination. All went smoothly on lady asked, apparently with all the of age in a bar at Chicago’s O’Hare the way down, but my return trip sincerity in the world. Airport. I could hardly believe it. I coincided with the crowds leaving laughed as I produced my ID and the Raptors' celebration. Her offer blew me away. This lady thanked the server for what I thought was not young; she appeared to be was a compliment. Upon reflection, I After inching my way through in her late 70s or early 80s. Had

The Write Stuff concluded that it was probably due to throngs of celebrants, I squeezed I been sitting and she standing, I the poor lighting in the bar. onto a crowded subway train would have gladly offered my seat just before the doors closed. At to her. At the young age of 55, a restaurant the Broadview Station, hordes of gave me an unsolicited senior’s people disembarked and climbed “Thank you, but I’m fine,” I said, discount. This being my first such the stairs to the waiting buses. After thinking to myself, "do I really experience, I wasn’t sure whether watching one loaded bus leave, I look that old? Or do I appear to be to rejoice at the cost saving or to managed to scramble aboard the in some kind of distress?" take issue with the waiter over his next one, but it was standing room presumption that I was a senior. only. There was a festive mood. As the bus trundled on, I How did they define seniors in this Raptors hats, shirts and other gear thought how unusual this was. establishment and just how old did made for a colorful scene. Indeed, I straightened up, and pulled he think I was? Like most seniors, I I was one of the few passengers in my shoulders back hoping to now happily accept these discounts, everyday attire. appear more able to cope with the but last summer, another happening situation. Feeling the need to say took me completely by surprise and The diesel bus roared its way out something more, I said; “Thank provided a little humor. of the station and onto Broadview you again” and then, for whatever Avenue. The brakes squealed as it reason, I said, “But I didn’t think I It was June 13, 2019. Practically made frequent stops in the heavy looked a day over 48.” all of Canada was celebrating the traffic. As it stopped, those of us victory of the Toronto Raptors over standing swayed forward. We The lady laughed and replied, the Golden State Warriors in the swayed the opposite way as the bus “I think you have the numbers NBA finals. Merely by reaching started off again. At the numerous backwards.” the playoffs, the Raptors aroused stops, disembarking passengers the sports passions of millions weaved their way through the mass What a joy she was, I laughed and of Canadians. From St. John’s, of people to get to the exit doors. so did the lady sitting beside her. I Newfoundland to Victoria, British didn’t tell them how true that was, Columbia, crowds cheered for what By this time, I was about halfway or that I was only 44 days short of had become Canada’s team. When down the bus and still standing. As my 84th birthday. the Raptors won the championship, I looked down at the passengers the country went wild. In Toronto, seated below me, my eyes met the After a few more stops the lady the victory parade lasted several gaze of a lady. Looking up at me, alighted and another lady took hours and culminated with a she smiled warmly and, over the her seat. The traffic thinned out celebration in the city hall square. din in the bus, she asked, “How are as the bus continued towards my An estimated one million people you doing?” destination. After more stops, I turned out. sank into a vacant seat wondering “I’m fine, thanks,” I said, hanging what message, if any, I should take On this happy day I had an tightly to the overhead rails. The from my latest senior’s experience. appointment in downtown Toronto. bus screeched to a halt again and December 2020 THE MEADOWORD 23 Memoirists Bid Farewell to Bob Barnett Gretchen Cochran

t was just another room in overcome them.” IThe Meadows Community Association building, but Bob “Bob was such an accomplished Barnett turned it into a chapel and respected writer and teacher where aspiring writers learned to that he could well have flaunted pour themselves onto paper for all his success,” Melinda Gordan the world to see. Ever so gently, said. In fact, he had published he lent us his courage and drive, more than 300 articles, two multiplying ten-fold his own skills television documentaries, and as an author and documentarian. three books. In the latest issue of Goldenseal magazine, Bob was An award-winning athlete, coach recognized as “West Virginia’s and sport historian, Bob, 77, foremost sports historian.” died Oct. 25, ironically because understanding of their father or of complications from a fall grandfather. Some of the stories Still, his quiet demeanor and wry while dreaming he was catching a were importantly serious, such as sense of humor made him seem a football. He had led The Meadows’ ‘How I Met My Wife,’ and others friend while also a person to really Memoir and Life Writing Group were humorous, almost silly, in look up to, and someone that was since 2012. nature such as ‘How I Survived a pleasure to spend time with, Being Trapped in My Daughter’s Melinda added. That same year Vic Pathe had College Dorm Building While been in the early stages of writing Completely Naked.’ (Don’t worry, Susan continued, “Over the two about his childhood and teen years it had a scandal-free, fully dressed short years I knew Bob, I admired in England during WWII and the ending). his writing and book publishing early postwar years. accomplishments, but I also Some of our stories were light and learned of his influence, support “I was not at all sure of my some serious. Valeda Lee wrote and benevolence with students ability to produce a useful about coming to terms with her from his high school and college product,” Vic said. But with Bob’s husband’s Parkinson’s Disease teaching and coaching years up to encouragement, he soon was and dementia. While reading her recently. He not only taught and writing memories, some even story to us, she was overcome with wrote, he showed us how to live. selected for publishing in The stress and emotion and could not Bob is respected, loved and will be Meadoword. Vic described sitting continue. Tears streamed down missed by many.” crammed in underground shelters her cheeks. Bob stepped in and as bombs fell on England and finished reading it for her. To paraphrase Kurt Vonnegut, Bob later, life in Canada. He completed helped us “experience becoming, his memoir, and in early 2019 Bob “It’s one of my fondest memories learned a lot more about what’s offered to review it. of our dear Bob,” she said. inside ourselves, and made our souls grow.” “Bob spent several hours with me “Bob created a sacred place in providing helpful suggestions. I many ways,” Susan Stasiak We are grateful to be among the will always be grateful for that,” said. His open-hearted reception many who knew him. Vic said. of our writings was fortified by his skill of critique with guidance. Near the same time Bob was His professor- working on his own book, like, organized “Growing Up in the Last Small structure Town: A West Virginia Memoir.” shepherded He read chapters to us for us through a our critique, encouraging our rich two hours comments. He included us in the of discovering rigors of publishing as he finished ways to his manuscript, then dealt with express editors and galleys marked with ourselves and endless editing direction. connect with readers. John and Diane Arch hoped to produce a record for their Marlene family once they are gone. “Bob’s Francis, enthusiasm and dedication were a college contagious,” John said. professor, said, “Bob loved teaching and coaching and was “Each week or two, I prepared a good at both. He offered ideas and story from some aspect of my life, topics to pursue and encouraged with the goal of creating snapshots even shy writers to share and read of important events which my two their work. His gentle coaching daughters and four grandchildren helped writers recognize a story's could read and add to their weaknesses and find ways to 24 THE MEADOWORD December 2020 The Tortilla Curtain by T. C. Boyle Joanne Simons—The Meadows Book Club December Preview

On September 1, 2020, T.C. Boyle canyon road, is between haves was a distinguished professor of tweeted: hit by Delaney in and have-nots, English. his “freshly waxed with a zing “On a happier note, today marks Japanese car unequalled since Boyle has been the recipient the twenty-fifth anniversary of with personalized Tom Wolfe's of numerous literary awards, the publication of “The Tortilla plates.” They will Bonfire of the including the PEN/Faulkner Award Curtain,” a book whose currency has meet again in the Vanities. Though for best novel of the year (World's only grown in our degraded times.” book’s climactic this may be the End, 1988); the PEN/Malamud scene. most depressing Prize in the short story (T.C. Boyle The Tortilla Curtain (Viking Press: novel of 1995, it Stories, 1999); the PEN/Thoreau 1995) is the story of two couples Through the is a measure of Prize for Literary Excellence (2014); seeking the American Dream. Rincóns, Boyle Boyle's gifts that it and the Prix Médicis Étranger for Delaney and Kyra Mossbacher live explores the plight is also one of the best foreign novel in France (The in the gated community of Arroyo of immigrants, the most memorable.” Tortilla Curtain, 1995). He was Blanco Estates near the Santa violence they suffer awarded two National Endowment Monica Mountains. He is a writer and the physical and financial T. C. Boyle, who changed his middle for the Arts fellowships (1978 and and a “liberal humanist.” She is a hardships they endure while trying name from John to Coraghessan 1983) and five O. Henry Awards. real estate agent selling ever bigger to make a life in the U.S. In the when he was 17 after an ancestor homes to ever-striving clients. Mossbachers, Boyle contrasts their of his mother, is a graduate of The Meadows’ Book Club will Their lives smash into the lives of liberal-humanist ideals with their SUNY Potsdam. He earned an MFA discuss The Tortilla Curtain at Cándido and América Rincón, two inner prejudices. at the Iowa Writers Workshop 2 p.m. December 12. The meeting undocumented Mexican immigrants and received his doctorate in will be on Zoom and available to up who are camping in a ravine, In her review for The Times on 19th century literature from the to 10 people in person at the MCA barely scratching out an existence December 7, 1995, Amanda Craig University of Iowa in 1977. He has building. through sporadic day labor, when wrote, “This, Boyle's sixth novel, taught at University of Southern Cándido, while walking along the examines America's guerilla war California since 1978 where he

The Meadows Book Club Meets on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 2:00 pm at the MCA Coordinator Jerry Bernier 941-554-8574 [email protected] Administration Joanne Simons 703-798-7330 [email protected] March Luncheon Caryl Magnus 941-378-5055 [email protected]

Date Book Title Author Discussion Leader 11/11/2020 In the Land of Invisible Women Qanta Ahmed Priscilla Schlegel 12/9/2020 Tortilla Curtain T. C. Boyle Cindy Kodish 1/13/2021 American Dirt Jeanine Cummins Jo Ann Lovell 2/10/2021 I've Got a Home in Glory Land Karolyn Smardz Barb McCain 3/10/2021 Maybe You Should Talk to Someone Lori Gottlieb Jessica Dill 4/14/2021 Paris in the Present Tense Mark Helprin Janet Thompson 5/12/2021 Every Drop of Blood Edward Achorn Jerry Bernier

Quotes from Famous Authors on the Joy of Reading.

In a world filled with social media, quick texts, and all the electronic snippets we share, reading a great book is all the more special. The feel of the book in hand, the action of turning the pages, its all part of the experience, and almost forgotten. But our electronic book reading has its benefits too. A good book captures our attention and opens our imagination in any format. It’s probably fair to say we take reading for granted. Some of the most celebrated authors in history have spoken about the joys, the benefits and the necessities of reading. Enjoy.

“The answers you get from “We read to know that we are not “Good friends, good books and a “A good book is an education literature depend on the questions alone.” —S. Lewis sleepy conscience: this is the ideal of the heart. It enlarges your you pose.” – Margaret Atwood life.” — Mark Twain sense of human possibility what “A book, too, can be a star, a human nature is of what happens “Books smell good. They look living fire to lighten the darkness, “There is no friend as loyal as a in the world. It’s a creator of good. You can press it to your leading out into the expanding book.” — Ernest Hemingway inwardness.” — Susan Sontag bosom. You can carry it in your universe.” — Madeleine L’Engle pocket.” — Ray Bradbury “I cannot remember the books “A reader lives a thousand lives “Good books, like good friends, are I’ve read any more than the before he dies. The man who never “To learn to read is to light a fire; few and chosen; the more select, meals I have eaten; even so, they reads lives only one.” — George R. every syllable that is spelled out is the more enjoyable.” — Louisa have made me.” — Ralph Waldo R. Martin a spark.” — Victor Hugo May Alcott Emerson December 2020 THE MEADOWORD 25

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MCA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Services & Classifieds continued… Jan Lazar, President Malcolm Hay, Vice President Fernando Viteri, Treasurer Bob Clark, Secretary Bruce Ferretti Amy MacDougall Tom Pound Mark Pienkos COMMITTEES Assembly of Property Owners Mike Mazur, Chair Malcolm Hay, Liaison Best Kept Lesley Totten, Chair Capital Planning and Finance Marilyn Maleckas, Chair Communications Tia Calomeris HOME WATCH LANDSCAPING Marilyn Maleckas, Liaison Cleaning by Karen & House Watching. . . . 941-713-2269 Victoria’s Garden Landscaping ...... 941-350-2566 Community Activities and [email protected] Involvement Gardens by Allison...... 941-400-0431 Kathy Easley, Chair Meadows Cleans and More...... 941-685-6823 [email protected] Tom Pound, Liaison [email protected] Emergency Preparedness TECH SUPPORT/HELP Mike Mazur, Chair HOUSEKEEPING David Stoltie–The Patient Trainer...... 941-404-5585 Finance and Budget Clean and Shiny Homes...... 941-920-4426 [email protected] Fernando Viteri, Chair [email protected] Fining Hearing Panel Pegatronics Computer Instruction & Repair. .941-735-3362 www.cleanandshinyhomes.com Marvin Glusman & Joy Howes, Co-chairs [email protected] Garden Club Residential Cleaning ...... 941-256-5983 www.pegatronics.com Melanie Babineau, Chair [email protected] TRADE SKILLS Long-Range Planning Malcolm Hay, Chair Susana's Cleaning Servies...... 941-536-6152 Florida Window and Pressure Cleaning. . . 941-544-0552 Maintenance The Meadows Housecleaner...... 941-894-9262 Phil's Painting...... 941-400-1071 Jo Evans & Mark Pienkos, Co-chairs [email protected] [email protected] Amy MacDougall, Liaison Personnel MDS Carpet and Tile Cleaning...... 941-358-6355 Bob Clark, Chair [email protected] Standards Bob Clark, Chair Safety Amy MacDougall, Chair CLASSIFIEDS Water & Wildlife Classified ads cost $25 for up to 40 words. Classified copy must be submitted with payment on or before the first Monday of the Dr. Robert Hueter, Chair Malcolm Hay, Liaison month prior to publication. If the first Monday falls on a holiday, ads are due the previous business day. Please practice due diligence when hiring service providers. THE MEADOWORD FOR RENT FOR RENT FOR RENT Community News Source of The Meadows Since 1983 Publisher, MCA: Frances Rippcondi, Winslow Beacon. Very nicely Harpers Croft condo, 2 Bdr/2Ba, 2nd Seasonal rental available Jan 1, 2021 MCA General Manager furnished. 2 bed 2 bath condo floor, hardwood floor, new furniture, through April 31, 2021. Condo month Editor/Creative Director: Tia Calomeris very bright. Second floor, end unit no smoking, no pets. Available Dec. to month. Fully furnished turnkey. MEADOWS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION overlooking pool. Available Oct, 2020 through April 2021. Call 802-363- By pool- one bedroom. No pets- no 2004 Longmeadow Sarasota, Florida 34235 November and December. mmallia@ 0170 or email [email protected] smoking. One level villa. Please call Phone 377-2300 • Fax 377-2248 huntmortgage.com. Jan- March or by month, 2 bedrooms, Connie at 619-392-8298. [email protected] 716-316-5701 www.themeadowssarasota.org upstairs unit, beautiful golf course Beautiful 2 bed/2 bath condo in Villa in Long Common, 2 BR/2BA, glassed view, no pets, adults only, non Wedgewood Lake. Bright end unit. smoking. By owner. Call 941-320-0502, Steps to pool. Screened lanai. Well- lanai on the golf course, turnkey, WiFi Submission Guidelines 2 pools end unit. stocked kitchen. Master with king and cable, community pool, season Articles and Monthly Columns bed, walk-in closet, walk-in shower. 2020/2021- US $3,700 per month. E-Mail: 3091 Willow Green- 2 BR/BA ground We welcome submissions from our [email protected] 3 TV's, WiFi, washer/dryer. Available Meadows residents for publication in The floor condo. Walk to the Meadows Meadoword. Articles should be of general December-February. 30-day minimum. shops and pus. New kitchen appliances interest to the community. WILLOW LINKS 2BR/2BA, 1st floor, end 920.980.8396 [email protected] and energy efficient A/C system. Full We copy edit all articles for accuracy, unit, turnkey, pool, great view, walk to content, style, and length and will not size w/d. East care luxury vinyl plank FOR SALE publish articles that contain offensive restaurants and shopping. Available material or inaccurate information. monthly, or seasonal. No smoking, W/D. flooring in kitchen and living areas 2008 Burgundy Honda CRV 124,775 Articles must be received by deadline for publication in the following month’s edition. Call 516-652-2536 or guardnbl0106@ and plush pile carpeting in bedrooms. miles. Good condition. Original owner. $1450/ month. 737-365-7766 $4,000 O.B.O 860-449-2332 All submissions are published at the gmail.com. discretion of the editor and the MCA. Meadowlake II. 2 BR/2BA, one level, 2 bedroom/ 2 bath condo for rent GEEKS… Happy Holidays. Looking for a gift not found at Walmart? One-of- updated and modern. Screened lanai with in Chartwell Green. 2nd floor end Subscription Rates a-kind artistic clocks using computer golf course & lake view. Fully furnished, The subscription rate for The Meadoword reflects a cost unit with a gorgeous view. Newly parts; Mother-boards in 3 sizes of small pet welcome. 3 month minimum. due to recent increases in postage, labor, and materials: decorated. Available by the month. shelf or desk top or wall-hanging; USA...... $2 00. per month $2200 per month. Call 941-350-0743 or Please call/text 262.945.9450 if you are Pendulum; Shadowbox; Different sizes Canada...... $3 50. per month email [email protected] interested. of hard drives; Cd's on Stone (unique). 941-379-2433 Europe ...... $6 25. per month The Meadoword December 2020 The Meadows Community News and Lifestyle Volume 38, Number 10

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