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Welcome to the Home of the Pelican Snowbirds
Stacey Is Back!!!
24 October 2025
We have seen far too many snowbirds and owners leave the Pelican for a variety of reasons. Which makes me even more excited to announce that Stacey Webster has returned to the office.
Something more than warm weather and sunny skies to look forward to as you return this winter.
Makes me wish I would be joining you.
(I hope she still has her "spinny dress".)
Passing of Judy Moeller
23 August 2025
Long time Pelican Snowbird Judy Moeller passed away on July 22nd following a lengthy and courageous battle with cancer.
Here is a link to her obituary:
Alan Leontovich
Obituary
1 May 2025
Alan's obituary can be viewed here.
On a personal note, I treasured Alan's friendship and the many times I was privileged to play golf with him. He and a few of his contemporaries must be credited with inspiring the many Pelican golf outings we all enjoy.
He was an absolute gentleman with a dry sense of humor and some fascinating stories to share (particularly if you were one of the Morning Manatees).
He will be missed.
Passing of Alan Leontovich
26 April 025
I am saddened to report that Alan passed away on Friday morning (25 April).
For anyone wishing to send a card Jan's address is:
3 Hedges Ave
Cornwall-On-Hudson, NY 12520
I will post a link to his obituary when it becomes available.
An Author Walks Among Us
23 March 2025
Most of you may not be aware that Mary McCarthy is already a published author and poet. But even fewer may not know that her latest book has just been published.
It is titled "Our Time in Morocco - A Story of Love, War, Travel, & Discovery". It tells the story of their time in Morocco when they were first married and Kevin was in the Navy during the Vietnam War Years. (You may have already seen folks reading a copy around the pool.)
You can learn more about this and other of her writings at her website: Works of Mary McCarthy
If you are interested in reading the book yourself she has copies available here at the Pelican at a discount "Friends and Family" rate of $10. Or you can purchase directly from Amazon for $16.95.
Congrats to both Kevin and Mary - two more examples of the type of folks we rub elbows with here at the Pelican.
Military History Club
26 March
20 March 2025
The final Military History Club meeting will highlight a presentation Gene Higley's made to the group 4 years ago on his Pacific tour trip. He visited many of the sites US forces occupied in their island hopping campaign to end the war vs Japan.
Farewell Birthday Celebration
23 March 2025
The final Pelican sponsored Birthday Celebrations took place this week and celebrants are pictured below.
Thanks to the owners for the many years of free treats, including Coffee and Donuts (a tradition which extended back to at least 1998).
Wayne Wolfgang, Art Fasoli, Barb Simonds, Phil Bown and Ron Dibb
Book Club Final Meeting
of the Season
23 March 2025
The final Book Club meeting of 2025 took place this past Wednesday with the group discussing "Westward Giraffes".
Thanks to Mary, Kevin and all those who supported the event this Winter.
In Other News:
In Other News:
Craig Simonds waits for the Pelican Pickleball group to clear the court so he can start up a game of hoops. (No clue as to where he might be hiding the basketball.)
Craig Simonds waits for the Pelican Pickleball group to clear the court so he can start up a game of hoops. (No clue as to where he might be hiding the basketball.)
Golf Scramble Results
16 March 2025
Congratulations to this years winners!!
To view the list of past champions click here.
To see all the photos from this years competition click here.
(And thanks to our photographer Sue Mancui.)
Men's Division Champions:
Men's Division Champions:
Russ Porter, Art Fasoli, Gary Thornhill and Craig Simonds
Ladies Division Champions
Ladies Division Champions
Barb Simonds, Donna Hartnett, Linda Barber and Linda Larabee
Shuffleboard Tournament
Results
15 March 2025
As near as I can tell this years Shuffleboard Tournament was won by Scott Hester and Susan Pelkey.
You can view all of the past year champions at this link
You can view photos from this years tournament at this link. (Thanks to photographer Randy Hooper.)
In Other News
Clarification!
15 March 2025
I have been asked to clarify that Craig beat his wife Barbara in the finals of the 3rd Annual Two Handed Cribbage Tournament.
In case you haven't heard, Craig Simonds beat he wife Friday evening.
Worse than that, he is going around bragging about it.
Local Heroes Story Revisited
8 March 2025
We originally reported that the flight of a two passenger plane on a training mission went awry when it hit the fence adjacent to the airport.
We are now hearing suggestions that the plane may have taken fire immediately before the crash.
Was it really a "coincidence" that Randy Hooper - a Canadian Citizen - just happened to be driving by?
The image below of Randy, taken during tactical combat training, might give one pause.
Or should we be concerned to learn that Bev Bev Hooper herself is known in her homeland as "The Mati Hari of Montreal"?
And is there a reason that Jack Barber is always sunning himself near the gate to the beach where he can carefully monitor our every move?
I don't know about you, but next time I am ready to order an Egg McMuffin at the drive thru I might just skip the Canadian Bacon and go for the sausage biscuit. No fentanyl for me, thank you very much.
Randy goes thru the complex process of converting the speed of an American Fighter jet from MPH to KPH. All the while hoping the commanding officer behind him doesn't notice that he can't see a damned thing thru that scope.
Coffee and Donuts
5 March 2025
Don't forget coffee and donuts this Friday! Nine AM poolside.
Don't forget coffee and donuts this Friday! Nine AM poolside.
Also, Sandi and I would like to express our deepest sympathy for those of you who have had to enjoy your coffee and donuts in the Pel House due to the miserable weather you have been having.
It must be positively awful.
Local Heroes
5 March 2025
While returning home from an early morning round of golf last Saturday Randy Hooper and his crew (Chuck Valenti, Scott Larabee and Dick Palackas) watched a flight instructor and student failed to clear the fence surrounding the airport. As the plane landed upside down Dick Palackas rushed (rushed is a relative term for Palackas) to employ the skills he learned as a medic in the military.
Dick was first to reach the plane and proclaimed them in good health after determining that their eyes were not dilated (and also their lips were moist and supple as they met his own).
Be sure and come to the next Military History Meeting where Dick will reveal what branch of service he was in.
And for goodness sake - come to the Art, Craft and Hobby Show this Sunday from noon to four. Show your support for our local artists, craftsmen and hobbyist!
You can even win a bottle of wine from our local hero himself. (I'm pretty sure he will just hand it to you.)
Men's Singles
Shuffleboard Tournament Results
5 March 2025
Roger Pelkey was the big winner in this year's Men's Singles.
Roger Pelkey was the big winner in this year's Men's Singles.
He is pictured here between third place Tom Lees and second place Scott Hester.
Two Handed Cribbage Tournament
Sign up by March 2nd
16 February 2025
We are getting ready to hold our second annual Two Handed Cribbage Tournament and you are invited to participate.
Format will be the same as past years. Single elimination. Each match is best two out of three games. Everyone puts in $1. Winner takes two thirds of the pot, second place one third.
If you are interested in playing please contact Craig Simonds by March 2nd at csimonds@hotmail.com or 607-222-4377
Once we know who is playing we will use a blind draw to set up a bracket. Once the bracket is set you and your opponent can play your match at a time and location of your choosing.
The plan is to have all matches (other than the finals) completed by March 14th. Then we can have the final two play it off starting at 6:00 right before our normal Friday cribbage session.
Thoughts and Prayers
for Margy Krueger
15 February 2025
Margy recently went through surgery to have a pacemaker replaced and many have been asking about her status. Here is the latest from Margy:
Thank you to all for your prayers and concern as I work through heart issues. I am doing well after new pacemaker upgrade procedure done on Wednesday, Feb. 12, at Waukesha Memorial Hospital. I was in the operating room three hours and all went well although more complicated than most pacemaker procedures. As planned, I spent the night at the hospital. Kelly was with me and we returned to Lake Mills on Thursday, Feb. 13. I have incisions on both sides of my chest which are in the process of healing. I have restrictions on both arms. Over the next month, there will be no lifting over 5 lbs., no lifting my arms higher than my elbows, and no pushing or pulling over 5 lbs. The doctor does want me to move my arms to prevent frozen shoulders. Medication issues have also been resolved for now. My wonderful daughters Kelly and Lisa Ruth and family have me well taken care of with help and food etc. I am blessed with family and friends. Smile and be happy for me. And don't forget me. I will be the one in baggy shirts flapping my arms. I can shoot the breeze in more ways than one.
Blue Moon?
13 February 2025
Many folks believe that the term "Blue Moon" comes from the idea of two full moons occurring in the same month. It is actually much rarer than that.
The term in fact refers to an event where the Blue Team beats the Red Team in the annual Pelican Ryder Cup, and the Blue Team proceeds to "drop trow" in celebration.
Such an event occurred this week as the Mike Frawley lead Blue Team defeated Craig Simond's red squad 16 to 12. The blue team was led to victory by Thornhill/Valenti beating Simonds/Hooper 3-1, Wolfgang/Hester beating Willoughby/Scherstrom 3-1, and Flesher/Porter beating Palackas/Fasoli 2.5-1.5 .
This was the first win for the blue team since 2021 and only the second since the Gutta-Percha ball was abandoned.
Blue Team Member From left to right: Tom Robl, Chuck Valenti, Scott Larabee, Mike Frawley, Don Morgan, Mike Flesher, Jim Collard, Wayne Wolfgang. (Not Shown: Gary Thornhill, Russ Porter, Al Rohde, Don Swick, Tom Lees, Scott Hester)
Russ Porter Celebrates his eagle on 18.
Red Team members were: Craig Simonds, Randy Hooper, Ron Dibb, Greg Hurley, Phil Mastin, Jack Barber, Art Fasoli, Dick Palackas, Wayne Babcanec, John Balsley, Kevin Stough, Stuart Willoughby, Jack Manciu, Norm Scherstron,
In related news, the problem with one of the A Building elevators was identified and resolved on Monday of this week.
Residents had been complaining of a worrisone, high pitched, whining sound that seemed to be coming from the elevator closest to the Pel House. However, upon further inspection the maintenance crew was able to track the noise to unit A402, where the blue team captain was found lamenting that he must compete from the age appropriate white tees. Once a decision was made such that no golfer would have to hit further back than the gold tees, said captain was placated and the whining noise immediately abated.
Connections - Sports Version
9 February 2025
For those who enjoy playing Connections, note that a link has been added above to the sports version of the game. (Hopefully this wont be moved behind a pay wall).
Military History Club
Next Meeting Notes
5 February 2025
Prof Leo Murphy from Emery Riddle will speak on Anti Sub Warfare (ASW) at the next meeting, which will be held on Wednesday, Feb 12 at 1100. He spoke to us last year on early naval aviation.
Prof Murphy spent 2 years at Keflavik NAS flying Orion P2s while monitoring Russian sub traffic thru GIUK gap (Greenland, Iceland & UK areas.
On Feb 26 Laura Kelly (retired Army helicopter pilot) will speak on the Florida wing of the Commemorative Air Force. She will be travelling from Deland where their fleet is maintained at the local airport.
Also, for those who are interested, Zach Zacharias (who has spoken to group twice over last 2 years) will be speaking at NSB library tomorrow (Thursday the 6th) at 2pm on "Off the Beaten Path". His speech will cover sites in Northeast Florida within 2 hour drive. Zach is an excellent speaker who is senior curator of history at Museum of Arts & Sciences in Daytona Beach.
The Scoop on the Sloop!
3 January 2025
Contrary to rumors, the captain of the sailboat shown below is not trying to sell sailing lessons in order to pay for the extraction of his craft.
However, if you would like a luxury yacht of your own, here is a chance to secure one for a single dollar. Nancy Frawley came up with the facts as described in the article below.
Memories from 2024
Time for Some Well Deserved
Thank Yous
25 March 2024
Weather-wise this may have been the most miserable Pelican winter on record. But if that kept you from having a good time this season you have only yourself to blame. And this is true because so many members of the Winter Family worked so hard to make it so.
Here are the primary folks involved in no particular order:
(And my apologies to the many helpers for each activity that I am simply not aware of - and there are many).
Shuffleboard: Bob McFarland, Ann Lees and Jan Leontovitch
These are the folks who keep shuffleboard - perhaps our most popular activity - rolling along each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. Plus a special event or two during the season.
Birthday Celebrations: Sharron Sekol, Susan Pelkey and Ann Lees
These are the folks who picked up, delivered, and served that delicious carrot cake each month.
Mixed Golf: Sue Scott
Where would we be without Thursday and Sunday afternoon golf? Sue makes it happen.
Art Show: Sue Palackas and her fellow artists
I can't imagine there is another condo in the entire state of Florida that puts on an Art Show each year. But Sue and her fellow artists did it again this year.
Pool Aerobics: Sue Scott and Mary Sabin
Every day they are out there leading Pool Aerobics. (Ok, there was that one day - but it has been a dreadful winter.)
Euchre: The Frawley's, the Stewarts, the Simonds and the Mancius
They split up responsibility for Euchre this year but made sure the tables came out even each week. Even when the number of players got as high as 32 (not far short of our all time record of 40).
Mahjong: Linda Willoughby, along with Mary Carrado and Alice Mastin
Mary has been trying to get Mahjong off the ground at the Pelican for some time, and this team finally has it flying.
Pickleball: Nancy Frawley
Often the difference between an activity that takes off and one that doesn't is someone to do the coordination. I have seen as many as 16 Pelican Picklers on the courts at one time thanks to Nancy's efforts. And all of it injury free!!! (knock on wood)
Men's Tuesday Golf:
Craig Simonds, Mike Frawley and Scott Larabee all help keep this gang of misfits under control.
Wednesday Golf
Nobody needs to do anything here. Folks just show up and play. Or they skip golf entirely and just show up for breakfast.
Military History Club: Phil Bown and Ron Dibb
Gary Scott couldn't be more pleased than to have these two gentlemen following in his footsteps. This season was full of great speakers and packed houses.
Book Club: Mary and Kevin McCarthy
No new activity has been more exciting to me than our book club. Mary's preparation is unparalleled. And Kevin's Oreos (Double Stuff no less) are a welcome accoutrement (look it up Randy).
Romeo's and Juliets: Dick Shaw and Mary Corrado
These two continue to find good restaurants that prove just how much a Pelican's belly can hold.
Bike Outings: Stuart Willoughby.
From breakfast rides on the beach to explorations of town, Stuart "Knuckles" Willoughby leads the way. They even took to the water for a kayak trip this year. (But we can use some help with this one next year. If I were you I would grab the spot before it is gone.)
Food and Music
Burgers, Hot Dogs - you name it and Phil Mastin with buddy Gary Bauer will put it to music. And everybody else chips in to fill out the menu and clean up the mess.
Year End Party
Nancy Frawley and Barbara Simonds coordinated the food. Mike Frawley did much of the heavy lifting. Craig Simonds and Sandi Swanson made sure the right folks got to the right line at the right time. And it was all done to the background music of Max Wright. And of course we couldn't have done it without our Anonymous donors - one of whom provided the overabundance of desserts, while the other who covered any cost overruns.
Bingo: Wayne and Donna Wolfgang
While two of my favorite people are the latest caretakers of this popular activity, we can't forget Jim Forney and Alice Mastin who started the year off. And of course our money changers - Wayne Babcanec and Dick Palackas.
Coffee and Donuts: Gary and Sally Peterson
When I was told Gary and Sally were leaving after this year I felt like I had been run over by a truck. And let's not forget Max again, over in the corner serenading the group. They will be an incredibly hard act to follow, but I think Sue and Jack Manciu will be up to the task.
Cribbage Night
This is another activity that pretty much runs itself. But it was a treat to watch the crowd grow to as many as 22 in a single evening.
Super Bowl Party
Simonds, Mastins and Willoughbys get together to make this annual event a success (even if the bingo game is fixed).
Special One Time Pel House Activities:
This includes Linda Willoughby for Fairy Hair, Alice Mastin for "Exploding Picture Box" class and "Glass Painting" class.
Line Dancing with Terri Norris
I know, she wasn't here this year. But the joy she brought to that group has carried over to 2024. And if she doesn't show up next January I will personally lead the posse to go round her up. (And NO Linda I did not tell everyone you were taking over the group. I told several different people several different stories about who was taking over the group. Unfortunately none of it worked.)
Best Actor and Actress in a Supporting Role:
Just had to give Phil and Alice a separate shout out of their own as they are either front and center or behind the scenes in more activities than I can count.
And the award for the best multi-use facility goes to:
Archie Williams for the Pel House. While it is the people who make the Pelican special, those people need a place to be special in. It wouldn't have happened without Archie. All of the wonderful folks who have joined the family the past few years missed that bit of our history and should know who to thank.
The Office and Maintenance Staff: Sandy, Lisa, Monica, Mark, Pearce and let's not forget Kenny
I upped the font size on this one because it is impossible to express our appreciation for all of the support these folks provide.
But Wait there's more...
I know there are, but I am old and forgetful and 900 hundred miles away. So forgive my omissions and check back to the end of this post for updates as I receive texts that start with "How could you possibly forget..."
Craig Simonds prepares to "congratulate" Art Fasoli who beat Craig two games to zero in the finals of this years cribbage tournament. Art succeeds last year's winner - Bud Garlock - and demonstrates that you need to be at least 90 to understand all the nuances of the game.
One of the most aesthetic storm fronts I have witnessed in my 18 years rolled in on Saturday evening. Thanks to Sandi for this shot.
Hopefully the storm didn't deter too many folks from taking a peek at the late night launch Saturday. Zoom in far enough on the yellow glow and you can make out the light of the rocket.
(Sandi took this shot also - I was asleep with the rest of you.)
Year End Party
Another Great Success
21 March 2024
We had a great turn out on Wednesday for the Year End Party and I wanted to thank everyone involved.
Thanks to Nancy and Mike Frawley, Craig and Barbara Simonds and Sandi Swanson who all pitched in to coordinate food, help with set up, get everyone signed in and just coordinated everything that needed to be done.
Thanks to Maxx Wright for the great music during the entire proceeding.
Thanks to our anonymous donors. One of whom covered our cost overrun ($15 per person didn't cover everything) and another who provided all of the desserts.
A special thanks to John Kelly who hooked us up with the "Under The Stars" hot meal program so our left overs were distributed to those in need.
Thank you to all the folks who pitched in at every turn from setting up tents, to moving chairs, or any of the other items - both small and large - that went towards pulling this off.
And thanks to all of you for showing up and being the special folks that you are and who make this such a wonderful place to stay.
For years I have been incorrectly referring to this as the "Snowbirds" website, implying that it and the activities it supports are limited to those winter guests who travel south for a few short months. In fact this is the home of the Pelican Winter Family - both renters and the ever growing list of owners who support and participate in our activities.
Thank you all.
A Thank You From
Jan Leonovitch
21 March 2024
Jan asked me to pass along the following note to all the shufflers:
Ladies and Gents
Shuffling at the Pelican provides a day to look forward to for fun and friendship.
Thank you for your generosity and the good memories.
May you all have an enjoyable summer until we meet again next year at the Pelican.
Jan
Update on Stacey Webster
CORRECTED ADDRESS
18 March 2024
The original address for Stacey was incorrect. The address below is correct. (I am the king of corrections today.)
For those who are following her story, Stacey Webster is moved in to her new apartment just behind McDonald's in Edgewater. While her health is progressing steadily she still has many challenges ahead.
Her address is 501 10th At, Apt 79, NSB, 32168 for anyone who would like to send a card (which I can assure you would be welcome).
I have also added Stacey's phone and email to the directory on this website (just click those three lines in the upper left for those who haven't yet found it).
Celebration of Life
for Gary Scott
29 February 202
As we enjoy our plethora of winter activities it is hard to forget the impact Gary Scott had on the Pelican. From the Military History Club, to his support for the annual Golf Outing, to the many dinner outings he helped organize he was always trying to make our winters a richer experience. He is sorely missed.
A Celebration of Life for Gary will take place on Saturday, April 27, in Glenview, Ill.
A link to the full obituary with details on this event are included below.
If you plan to attend the Visitation/Celebration of Life please let Sue know at: scottsue34298@gmail.com
Pelican Book Club
2 March 2024
One of the great additions to our activities this season has been the Book Club, led by Mary McCarthy and her husband Kevin (who, as nearly as I can tell, does nothing but occasionally bring Oreos).
Group leaders Mary and Kevin McCarthy field a question from the audience.
Some of the 22 members who attended the February meeting participate in a discussion of "The Boys In The Boat".
Catching Up With All the Fun
17 March 2024
It has been an extremely busy couple of weeks and more has been going on than I have been able to keep up with. There has been a kayak outing, a golf scramble, an art show and another birthday celebration to name but a few.
Rather than overwhelm the front page I have consolidated several activities that you can view at this link.
I know I have missed much more, so if anyone would like to forward a photo I will see if I can add it to the linked page. (So recheck the page for updates.)
2024 Shuffleboard Tournament
Results
21 February 202
It was a hearty crew that braved cool temps and steady winds Wednesday to determine this years Pelican Shuffleboard Champions. In the end it was the May/December coupling of Scott Hester and Dick Shaw who walked away with the gold medal.
Scott is new to the game while Dick capped off a storied career by garnering his first Gold Medal after 21 years of participation. It must be quite a relief for Dick after watching wife Jean win the title three times (including last year).
Thanks to all who participated and in particular to Bob MacFarland who has been leading both men's and mixed shuffleboard activities for the past several years.
You can see all the past champions here.
This years cast of devoted shufflers (minus a few who were off getting warm).
From the left:
3rd Place: Randy Hooper and Mary Pat Monroe
1st Place: Dick Shaw and Scott Hester
2nd Place: Mary Ann Kuelsa and Tom Lees
Another Ryder Cup
Is In The Books
15 February 202
This past Tuesday 24 stalwart golfers struggled with gale force winds to compete in the 10th Annual Pelican Ryder Cup.
The Red Team retained the cup (pardon me while I yawn) in what I would like to describe as a tight match that came down to the final foursome. But that wouldn't be accurate.
So I will just leave you with these photos and this link to photos of all the pairings (thanks to Jo-Ann Porter).
Original RC Captains - and local golfing legends - Jim Swanson and Russ Porter shake hands after hitting a ceremonial first shot.
(After picking up his ball from the center of the fairway Jim joined a small group with machetes who were able to locate Russ' ball and confirm that he did indeed have the longest drive.)
Blue Captains Mike Frawley and Scott Larabee show off their blue shirts.
Next to them are candy-ass Red Captains Randy Hooper and Craig Simonds who are in fact wearing the required red shirt, but felt it necessary to cover their team colors with additional outerwear to protect themselves from temperatures in the lower 60s.
Left to Right Standing: Stu Willoughby, Jim Collard, Mike Flesher, Randy Hooper (who in his inebriated state is holding what he believes to be the Ryder Cup), Tom Lees, Jack Barber, Jack Manciu, Greg Hurley, Chuck Valenti.
Seated: Craig Simonds, Art Fasoli. Not Shown: Gary Thornhill.
Standing Left to Right: Scott Hester, Wayne Wolfgang, Ron Dibb, Dick Palackas, Mike Frawley, Phil Mastin, Scott Larabee, Don Morgan, Kevin Stough
Seated: Tom Robl, John Balsley, Wayne Babcanec.
It doesn't get any better than this!
Pel's Angels Ride Again
20 January 2024
Pel's Angels took their inaugural ride of the season on Thursday. This was our famous "burrito breakfast ride" to the inlet. Our group of 7 terrorized innocent beachgoers on our way to the double deck pavilion at Dunes Park.
Next time the tide is right we will be doing this one again - so stay tuned. Don't have a bike? Let us know and we will do our best to hook you up.
Weather permitting we head out every Thursday morning on various routes that include the Canaveral Seashore Park, the Rail Trail off Park St in Edgewater or just a casual peddle through local neighborhoods.
Pel's Angels prepare to deploy drag parachutes as they near the inlet.
Enjoing a break at the pavilion.
Jim Swanson, Chris Killian, Scott Larabee, Wayne Babcanec, John Balsley and Group Leader Stuart Willoughby obstructing a beautiful view of the beach.
Soctt and group photographer Linda Larabee actually enhanced this view of the Park.
Loading up on fuel at Toni and Joe's.
Memories from 2023
Local Pickleball Tournament
March 25th, 2023
The Pelican's own Mike Frawley finished 10th out of 16 this weekend after mistakenly entering a middle school tournament at Pettis Park.
"Had it not been for the stifling heat and their darn quickness, I think I could have finished in the top 5." said Mike, who promised to pay more attention to the paperwork next time around.
Mike with early round partner Robbie Gordon - who was only doing this to impress Olivia Greenberg.
Year End Party
What a Blast!!!
March 25th, 2023
Heading North tomorrow and don't have enough time to do justice to the awesome party we shared on Friday.
Many thanks to all the folks who worked so hard, from the organizers (Alecia William, Alice Mastin and Denise Driscoll), to the musicians (Phil Mastin, Gary Bauer and Max Wright) to the "game day crew" of Sandi Swanson, Craig Simonds, Barb Simonds, Anne Renaldo, Alyson Dimitriv, Stuart Willoughby and Linda Willoughby, to the maintenance crew (Mark, Kenny and Mike), to the office staff who stopped by to wish us well (Sandy and Stacey), to the intrepid souls who are eating leftovers even as I speak, and to those whose names I have missed.
But a special thanks to the anonymous benefactor who made the Dustin's buffet a possibility.
The Year End Party is about celebrating people, not celebrating food. But it sure was good food.
(Speaking of which there are full trays of chicken, pasta salad and macaroni and cheese in the fridge. Please help yourselves.)
Not enough time to sort through all the pictures that were taken, so I will go with this one that pretty much says it all:
First Pelican
Cribbage Champion
March 17th, 2023
The Pelican held its first ever two handed cribbage tournament this week.
Pelican Art Show
March 13th, 2023
The Pelican Art Show took place on Sunday. Click here to learn more about it, or to revisit if you were among the many participants: Pelican Art Show
Catamaran Excursion
March 13th, 2023
Glenn Smith from Las Brisas put together this video of the recent Catamaran Trip and asked me to share it on our website:
2023 Variety Show -
Another Great Hit
March 12th, 2023
The 2023 Pelican Variety Show is in the books after another wonderful performance on Friday night. I won't risk slighting anyone by singling out any one performance, but top to bottom this may have been the best show ever.
You can view videos of all the acts (courtesy of Anne Renaldo) here: 2023 Variety Show
The program was filled with great tunes.
It was a full house on a beautiful evening.
The turn out for Birthday Celebrations neared record numbers.
Max and Nancy had the sound tuned in perfectly. While Max is not always in the foreground, he is a major player in pulling this off every year.
This years show may not have been suitable for audiences of all ages.
Patsy Cline's performance was a hidden gem in more ways than one.
The Pelican Players harmonize on another hit.
February 25th, 2023
Golf is a great sport for players of all ages, but most would agree there is something lacking without a little "skin in the game".
This photo shows two golfing greats (Alan Leontovich and the Two Dollar Bill) along with a local hacker. Since I have "the power of the pen" I don't have to accurately report which way the money was flowing - but only Alan's smile is sincere.
Note: The photo was taken by Wayne Babcanec and it was his only good shot of the day.
2023 Shuffleboard Tournament
Is In The Books
February 21, 2023
The 2023 Pelican Shuffleboard Tournament was held yesterday and the winners are - all the folks who participated on such a beautiful day.
But the high scorers - and this years champions - are Jean Shaw and Roger Pelkey. This is the third win for Jean. But it is not Roger's first medal either. Not only did he finish second last year, but he is the Pelican's only two time winner of the coveted (and now obsolete) yellow medal which was awarded to the "strongest" player in each tournament. (That's a nice way of saying he finished last.)
Jean and Roger ran away from the field, scoring the highest score in both the morning and afternoon rounds for a total of 526.
Second place went to Bev Hooper and Bob McFarland (473) while Sharron Sekol and David Lusby (472) were in third.
The link below will take you to a list of all past champions as well as further links to photo galleries of each event going back to 2019.
The Goodyear Blimp circles the Shuffleboard Competition while broadcasting on ESPN-17.
Handsome Jim and Mary Pat were voted Cutest Couple in this years tournament.
Rocking the Crimson House
February 19, 2023
"Those Two Guys" scored again Friday night as a Woodstock Sized crowd flooded the outdoor seating area surrounding the Crimson House.
A largely new playlist was incorporated with old favorites and some original tunes to provide three hours of entertainment. A head count of over 100 people - mostly from the Pelican or the Captain's Quarters - fought for chairs beneath ancient oaks while enjoying great service, good food, and an adult beverage or two. And while the term "perfect weather" is often over used, it could not have described the evening better.
Don't let the empty chairs fool you. I was late to the party in getting this shot.
While the crowd obviously appreciates the music the duo provides, I can assure all that "Those Two Guys" are equally appreciative of the support they receive. (That said, the panties that were found on stage after their rendition of "Don't Let The Old Man In" reflect someone who was perhaps a bit over exuberant, or perhaps misunderstood the lyrics.)
And dearest Gabriella - I saw you over by the gate, but by the time I could work my way through the crowd you were gone. Please contact me.
Recognition
February 10, 2023
Pelican activities run on the back of so many volunteer Snowbirds and Owners that I am reluctant to single out any individuals for recognition for fear of overlooking someone else.
But this year the yeoman's work of Phil and Alice Mastin can not be ignored.
It began before most of us were even here as they hosted a New Year's Eve party in their unit.
Soon Alice was running Bingo Saturdays.
When the Mermaid Hair Lady came to visit Alice stood in for Linda Willoughby (who is now residing in a little known homeless shelter in the B Building).
Then they organized a Hummer Party and invited everyone.
Soon after Alice was restarting Mahjong Mondays.
Just last night Those Two Guys entertained us while we enjoyed burgers and side dishes.
And tomorrow night it is time for the Super Bowl Party (not to be missed - still seats available!) that they have put together for more years than I can recall.
Next Friday "Those Two Guys" will be performing at the Crimson House downtown at 6:30.
And in March they will be front and center at the Variety Show on the 10th, helping organize and populate our own Pelican Art Show on the 12th and back again for Burgers and Jam on the 24th.
And in perhaps his most important contribution, when it was time for the Ryder Cup, Phil stepped up for the Red Team and kicked some serious butt!
They have invested so much of their own time (and often their own money) to make this place the sandy winter wonderland that it is.
And they would be the first to say: "But wait Jim! We had help with all of this." And that is absolutely true. Nothing said above should take away from any of the countless hours so many other contribute here.
But just reading the lines above exhausts me. Alice and Phil deserve to be singled out and given a strong round of applause and a hearty handshake.
On behalf of everyone - We love you guys!
(Phil and Alice - I know you might prefer I didn't post this, but I had to.)
Cheeseburger in Paradise
Delivers Again
It was a beautiful evening as a large crowd gathered down by the grill area to enjoy a wonderful spread of side dishes, burgers and steaks on Friday evening. A crowd measured to number at least 78 folks enjoyed not only the food but the sounds of "Those Two Guys", a duo born right here at the Pelican who get better each and every year.
From traditional hits, to original songs, to "Happy Birthday" as sung by the entire crowd to Sasha as she turned 12 - it was wall to wall smiles.
Our grill cooks - led by Randy Hooper with assistance from Roger Pelkey, Jim Swanson, and Russ Porter - held true to their time worn slogan: "The way we cook it is the way you want it!"
For those who could have used a spare plate or a bit more ketchup, this special night is loosely organized by design. But we are always interviewing to fill one of our many vacant leadership positions.
Red Team Returns to Glory
Led by many of the Pelican's long time golfing greats - including an eagle by Randy Hooper and a torrid round by Phil Mastin - the Red Team recaptured the Ryder Cup on Tuesday morning at the Muni course.
Captains and Co-Captains of the Blue and Red teams prepare to tee off in the Cup.
From Left to Right: Gary Thornhill, Chuck Valenti, Kevin Stough, Randy Hooper, Phil Mastin, Art Fasoli, Greg Hurley, Captain Craig Simonds, Don Morgan (perfect pose Don), Jim Collard, Dick Palackas, Gary Bauer, Jack Manciu. (Not Show: Jim Doty)
And since we have been asked why we have not shown the losing team in the past, here are their sad little faces as they officially throw in the towel.
Jack Barber, John Maas, Ron Dibb, Russ Porter, Tom Robl, Mike Flesher, Captain Mike Frawley, Scott Larabee, Wayne Babcanec, Tom Lees, Randy Teltoe, Wayne Wolfgang, John Balsley, Dick Kelly
As is tradition, the Red Team Names have been engraved on our very own Ryder Cup Trophy - a gift from George Eaton.
(George once suffered a heart attack while playing Spruce Creek and returned to the links two weeks later. Nobody likes to miss their Florida Golf.)
Drone Videos
Joe O'Toole, son in law of Kevin and Mary McCarthy, was in town last month and took drone videos of the Ponce lighthouse and a local shrimp boat. I found them fascinating and well worth sharing. Thanks Kevin and Joe!
Memories from 2022
Apparently these gentlemen have never seen a beach buggy before.
A quiet day at the beach as Spring Break winds down.
A young reveler recovers from Mardi Gras.
Sally and Gary Peterson take a break from providing donuts and coffee to the Pelican residents.
The Juliets appear pleased with their meal at the Corkscrew.
This recent photo of an eagle at Hidden Lakes is more elegant than the one I once had on 17.
(I had witnesses also Randy.)
Happy golfers enjoying a post round meal at Riverpark Terrace.
Birthday celebrations are always a treat - even if we are forced indoors by the weather.
Folks on this Catamaran Trip appear to be having quite a good time.
Founding members of the Military History Club surround guest speaker Bob Reese.
From left to right: Bill Cohane, Gary Patterson, Bob Reese, Gary Scott, Jack Flick
Old News
Old News
Six years ago this "Killer Kite" attempted to take down the C Building. Rumor is our current construction projects are an attempt to reinforce the Pelican against future attacks.
We all enjoy the variety of Pel House activities, but "old timers" remember this version.
The structure on the right was the office. The building on the left contained a galley kitchen, tiny dining area, living room and two upstairs bedrooms. This is where we limped by for all of our activities until the owners generously built the current structure for use by winter guests. It was a game changer.
GOLFING WORLD
SHOCKED!!!!
The chances of the Blue Team winning the Ryder Cup are small - but never zero.
In an upset that has PGA players worldwide shaking their heads, WLB Mike Frawley and his experienced co-captain, and mentor, the legendary Russ Porter, broke a Red Team winning streak that stretches back almost to the last century.
Twenty-eight golfers (a group larger than the more well known Ryder Cup) chewed up the greens and fairways at the Municipal course for over four hours before retiring to Tiano's for some serious chop-busting.
When asked how he pulled off the upset, Captain Frawley said; "Don't touch me. Just don't touch me."
The Red Team captain was more philosophical; "Sometimes you just get tired of winning all the time." An attitude reflected in his groups 0-4 finish.
The Blue Team: Back Row - Stuart Willoughby, Olin Mastin, Mike Frawley, Phil Mastin, Kevin Stough.
Middle Row - John Balsley, Scott Larabee, Dick Palackas, Tom Lees, Jack Manciu, Randy Hooper, Jim Collard
Front Row - Jack Barber, Russ Porter
Virtual Pelican Talent Show
It is unfortunate that we will not be holding a live Talent Show at the Pelican as originally planned for this week.
But that shouldn't keep us from enjoying shows from the past. And you can do that here:
Military History Club
The Military History Club has been a pleasant addition to the Pelican Activities list for the past several years. Below is a photo of attendees from their most recent meeting.
Front row: Chuck Tomasek, Bill Cohane, Ron Dibb, Jeanine Dibb, Jeanne Snow, John Balsley, Gary Patterson, Geoff Meyer, Larry Clark, Ed Tenholder.
Back Row: Bob Tague, John Comerford, Jack Manciu, Gary Sabin, Dick Palackas, Wayne Wolfgang, Phil Bown, Gary Scott.
But their most famous member is clearly "Banzai" Bill Cohane, shown here in the garb that made him a feared adversary throughout his military career.
Bill was also a commercial airline pilot for several years until showing up for work - on what turned out to be his last day - in this same outfit.
Hole in One?
Or Canadian Artifice?
The vast majority of Canadians are honest, hard working people who contribute to society in general and here at the Pelican in particular.
Alas, there are exceptions.
Thus I report with some trepidation this "supposed" golfing achievement of one Randy Hooper.
According to two "witnesses" (Greg Hurley and Scott Larabee, who, at this point in the round would have already been in debt to Randy for at least $2 and thus subject to coercion) this is a photo of Randy standing next to the cup on the 12th hole at Turnbull Bay after having "Aced" said hole.
Setting aside the skill required to achieve such an accomplishment, one who has played this course in the early morning would quickly notice that the shadow is running in the wrong direction and the flag appears photo shopped. Were it not for his signature paunch, I would question whether that was even Randy in the picture.
All that aside, I would not want to take away from Randy's achievement and will reluctantly report it is fact. And if true Randy I want you to know that while I was not with you in your cart - I was there in spirit.
So you owe me a beer.
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