Greetings, Neighbors!
As the gentle breezes of fall begin to grace Southwest Florida, we find ourselves at the gateway of one of the most vibrant times of the year. From the festive spirit of Halloween to the solemn gratitude of Veterans Day and the warmth of Thanksgiving, there is so much to look forward to.
It’s time to dust off the cobwebs and get into the spirit! Here are some ideas for a fun and safe Halloween for everyone. For decorating, you can ditch the traditional pumpkins that wilt in our heat and opt for more durable gourds or, better yet, paint plastic pumpkins or jack-o-lantern buckets. Consider using LED candles to avoid fire hazards. Get creative with spooky lights, as orange and purple string lights can instantly transform your home. Look for projection lights that cast ghosts, bats, or spiders onto your house for a high-impact, low-effort effect. You can also create a “spooky swamp” with Spanish moss, rubber snakes, and eerie lighting in your yard or by your pool. It’s a fun, local twist on a classic haunted scene. For safety, be sure to ensure your walkways and front porch are well-lit for trick-or-treaters. Remove any tripping hazards from your yard, such as garden hoses, lawn decorations, and pots. Consider keeping pets inside during peak trick-or-treating hours, as the constant doorbell ringing and unfamiliar costumes can be stressful for them. Always inspect candy before consumption and discard any unwrapped or suspicious-looking items.
On Monday, November 11, we honor the brave men and women who have served our nation. We encourage everyone to take a moment to reflect on their sacrifices and show your gratitude. You can check local city and county websites for information on Veterans Day parades or memorial services in our area. If you know a veteran, take a moment to thank them for their service, as a simple phone call, card, or kind word can mean the world.
Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and it’s never too early to start planning! If you’re not in the mood to cook, many local restaurants and grocery stores offer precooked turkey and sides. Be sure to reserve yours early. With so many home-cooked meals, remember to never leave cooking food unattended and keep a fire extinguisher handy.
The Lancaster Run ownership project is moving forward. Hopefully this will all be resolved soon. The 2026 Master Association Budget will be presented and voted on at the October 21 meeting. The proposed budget is available for review on the association’s website. Be sure and check out the calendar in this issue for activities in our community.
Stay safe.
