January 2026 Piper

THE PIPER | JANUARY 2026

05

A MESSAGE FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER

“Tradition is a guide and not a jailer.”

W. Somerset Maugham Traditions are the periodic renewal of memories, which is what enables the memories to persist. One condition of a tradition is that it must be passed from generation to generation. Traditions come in all sizes and shapes. Some are large, some small. Some span a country, others span the globe. There are family traditions, national traditions, school traditions and yes, even golf traditions. The Bobby Nichols Fiddlesticks Charity Foundation ‘s annual pro-am invitational golf and tennis tournament —the Nichol’s Cup—is our tradition, and one every member can be proud of. Held during the Presidents’ Day weekend, the tournament has raised more than $20 million for nonprofit organizations since its inception. That has meant much-needed help for more than 100,000 children in Southwest Florida during the last two decades. The Foundation’s two primary charity partners are the Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida and Abuse Counseling & Treatment. Additional beneficiaries include Blessings in a Backpack, Liberty Youth Ranch, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice and Pace Center for Girls, Lee. Founded in 2002 by residents of Fiddlesticks Country Club, the Nichols Cup golf tournament is one of the most successful community-sponsored pro-am tournaments in the U.S. and recognizes the contributions and accomplishments of Bobby Nichols, a 12 time winner on the PGA tour, including the 1964 PGA Championship. The Nichols Cup is a tradition that highlights the incredible generosity of our membership, and is something that distinguishes this club from all the others in Southwest Florida. The Friday night wine pull, incredible silent and live auctions, tennis, pickleball, and golf tournament are all supported by hundreds of member volunteers who bring the entire community together. Some traditions are motivated by competitive rivalries, others by nostalgia. The Nichols Cup is unique in being a tradition of compassion. The event creates memories, but it also creates opportunities for at-risk kids who often haven’t had many chances at success in life. It’s an example of what makes a club great, and a great club. Whether you play in the pro-am, attend the gala and participate in the auctions, or serve as a Piper, know that you are creating and sustaining a tradition that’s making a difference. Best wishes to you and your family for a healthy and prosperous New Year. Al Antonez, CCM, CCE General Manager/Executive Vice President