Laura Anderson, affectionately known as “LA,” has been a cornerstone of Bonita Bay Club for an incredible 35 years. She joined BBC in 1990 and has been a friendly face and dedicated team member ever since. Let’s take a closer look at her journey, her life before BBC, and what makes her a cherished part of the BBC family.
LA’s Early Life
Born and raised in Des Moines, Iowa, LA grew up in a close-knit family with two older sisters. She lost her mom early in life and was raised by her loving father who she fondly describes as “the best dad ever!” She started taking gymnastics classes at a young age and found she had a talent for the sport. She started competing at the age of nine and continued competing through college at Iowa State University.
After moving to Naples in 1984, she started her own lawn service business. However, seeking a change and a workspace with air conditioning, she transitioned to restaurant and country club work, ultimately landing at Bonita Bay Club in 1990 after hearing about an opening from a friend. “I came here, and I’ve never left,” she says. Before starting at BBC, LA’s work ethic shone as she juggled three jobs: waitressing and bartending, cleaning houses, and teaching gymnastics.
A Journey at Bonita Bay Club
LA was at Backwater Jacks for 19 years before joining Bonita Bay Club during the turnover. During her time there, she embraced opportunities to give back to the community by participating in team volunteer activities for Habitat for Humanity. This experience allowed her to connect with her colleagues outside of work while making a tangible difference in the lives of others.
Over the past 35 years, LA has witnessed significant transformations, including the addition of the Naples courses, the Breezeway Bar and Grill, and the 55th Hole. “What keeps me rooted at BBC is the members, management, and benefits. I have never left here because the employees who do always come back!” she explains.
While LA has seen some major changes at the Club, her connection to the members remains a constant. “The members are like family to me,” she says. A typical day for LA includes setting up the bar, stocking, and serving members with her signature warmth. She prefers to work four double shifts a week, which allows her three well-deserved days off.
A Personal Touch
LA met Dan in 1989 and they were married in 1992. Within a year she became a mother to three after inheriting two wonderful stepchildren who quickly became her own and becoming pregnant. Her daughter Danielle moved away from Naples to live in Alabama where she raised LA’s granddaughter Ashlynn who is now a freshman at the University of South Alabama. Danielle has since found her way back to Naples and is pursuing a freelance art career. Her son Derek is the Fleet Manager for Naples Transportation and Griffin is learning the ropes of the family business Anderson Coating Systems, founded in 1982, and is set to take it over when LA and Dan retire.
In preparation for retirement, LA picked up golfing, a hobby of her husbands, so they can travel and golf together when that day comes. She is happy that she ended up loving golf and even got a hole-in-one on Cypress #2, earning a spot in the golfer’s club—much to her husband’s delight! When she is not golfing you can find LA walking her dog, lounging by the pool or beach, listening to music, dancing, playing pool, and occasionally hitting the casino.
Looking Ahead
While Bonita Bay Club continues to grow, LA’s incredible milestone serves as an inspiration to her colleagues and a testament to the welcoming community at Bonita Bay Club. When asked what makes Bonita Bay Club such a special place to her, LA answered, “I am lucky to work in a very well-run facility! I was trained by people who take pride in their job and are always there to help if I ever have a problem.” LA’s presence is woven into the fabric of BBC, and her dedication continues to make it a special place for members and staff alike.
