A: After operating La Rosa Pizzeria for more than 15 years, owners Bill and Alda Rosa decided to sell their local business and restaurant space last year because of their age and many years
since 2008 in the retail strip known as Pelican Larry’s Plaza along the north side of Davis Boulevard. Declining health prevented him from maintaining the grueling lifestyle necessary to own and operate a mom-and-pop place.
New owners renovated the 1,584-square-foot end unit and converted the restaurant into a breakfast-lunch spot at 7785 Davis Blvd., Suite 108. The longtime restaurateurs, who operate a similar family restaurant in Michigan, hope to launch their new restaurant — GG Brunch Haus — near the end of the year in the Naples area. After looking at a few commercial units for sale, Albana Hoxha knew immediately that the former pizzeria was the right place to buy. The restaurant features a cozy interior and patio dining around an outdoor fountain in an adjacent courtyard.
NCH OFFERS STROKE PATIENTS HOPE FOR BETTER MOBILITY
By Jean L. Amodea
As they were dining out one evening in November 2023, John and Susan Morrison didn’t realize that their lives were about to change.
“Susan went to the ladies’ room, returned to the table and sat down.
Suddenly, she put her head down hard; we knew something was seriously wrong. We called an ambulance, and she was
“Susan
CHEF CRUSHED BY CAR LIFT SETTLES LAWSUIT; RECOVERY WILL TAKE TIME
Three years after plunging down an elevator shaft and getting crushed by a car lift at Ferrari of Naples during a grand opening event, award-winning Southwest Florida Chef Brian Roland has settled his lawsuit involving eight defendants.
“The settlements are strictly confidential and the family has asked for privacy regarding this issue,” Roland’s attorney, Dena Sisk Foman of West Palm Beach, said of Roland, now 45, his wife and 3-year-old daughter. “They want to focus on putting the pieces of their life back together.”
Court records and depositions show a series of alleged missteps and mistakes by numerous defendants led to the accident, which caused severe injuries, including a brain injury, broken bones and organ damage that will continue throughout
The popular chef, who founded Crave Culinaire in 2012, was catering a grand opening party on Dec. 4, 2021, at Ferrari of Naples, at 11291 Tamiami Trail N., when he fell through a 22-inch gap in the car lift, plunged to the ground floor and was crushed when the lift moved downward.
Brian Roland
By Aisling Swift
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Naples venture capital firm acquires 45-mile fiber optic project
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Naples-based venture capital firm ROC Venture Group, known for numerous investments in artificial intelligence-related technology, acquired a 45-mile fiber optic project along the Interstate 95 corridor outside Washington, D.C., an area company officials identified as having the highest concentration of data centers and fiber optic needs in the world. Terms of the deal weren’t announced. Company officials said the project emphasizes faster fiber technology than what currently exists in the area. The underground fiber optic network adheres to stringent specifications and supports the growing demand for secure, high-capacity data transmission.
Company officials said this project underscores the critical role of advanced infrastructure in supporting AI, cloud computing, telemedicine, 5G networks and other data-intensive applications.
Neighborhood Health Clinic receives $3.7M endowment grant
Neighborhood Health Clinic received an endowment gift of $3.75 million from The Schoen Foundation to treat chronically ill patients suffering from cardiovascular and coronary heart disease. Nearly 70% of the clinic’s patients suffer from a combination of heart disease and associated diabetes-related illness. The grant is designated to establish a new endowment fund that will provide ongoing support for the clinic’s Healthy Heart program, continuing the work presented and supported in past grant applications.
The Immokalee Foundation raised more than $700,000 at its Charity Classic Pro-Am Golf Tournament on Nov. 18 at Bay Colony Golf Club in Naples. The funds will support the immediate educational and professional development needs of more than 1,300 students in Immokalee — from kindergarten through postsecondary education.
Roadies Pit Stop rapidly taking shape at Founders Square in Naples
The retro-looking Roadies Pit Stop is going up on an outparcel space next to Kelly’s Roast Beef in the Founders Square mixed-use development on the southeast corner of Immokalee Road and Collier Boulevard in North Naples. Road-
ies is targeted to launch in early 2025 as a freestanding, triple drive-thru concept serving a variety of coffee drinks and proprietary high-energy performance beverages.
Naples Police Department holds toy drive for 2 charities Naples Police Department is holding a holiday toy drive to benefit two nonprofits, Project Help and Beverly’s Angels. There are three ways to donate to the Operation Fill-A-Patrol-Car Toy Drive, which runs through Monday, Dec. 16: 1. Drop off a new, unwrapped toy in the police department’s lobby at 355 Riverside Circle, Naples. 2. Donate a toy through Pop Toy Co. at bit.ly/fill-a-patrolcarpoptoy; or 3. Send a toy through your Amazon account to Naples Police Department, Attn: Sean Phillips, 355 Riverside Circle, Naples, 34102. For more information, call 239.213.4844.
Jewish Federation of Greater Naples hires new CEO
The Jewish Federation of Greater Naples has hired a career educator, nonprofit leader and former Texas charter school founder as its new president and CEO. Nammie Ichilov joins the organization after nearly five years as president and CEO of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio. His tenure in Texas’ second largest city was marked by “Stronger Together” community-wide initiatives that significantly strengthened community alliances and combatted antisemitism; oversight and strategic transformation of the Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio; a revival of local fundraising; and the robust outreach of the Jewish Community Relations Council.
Collier Supervisor of Elections Office conducts manual audit
The Collier County Canvassing Board took part in the public manual audit of the 2024 General Election on Nov. 22, as required by law. During the meeting, Collier County Supervisor of Elections staff manually audited the presidential race for Precinct 257. In total, 2,899 ballots were manually counted in the audit, including ballots cast by mail during early voting, provisionally, and on Election Day, with 100% accuracy compared to the tabulation equipment used during the election. County officials said the audit proves that the equipment was properly programmed and was capturing votes cast accurately. The Nov. 22 manual audit concluded the
Collier County Disaster Recovery Center closes
permanently
The Disaster Recovery Center in Collier County, located at Sugden Park, 4284 Avalon Drive in East Naples, closed permanently at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 3. Disaster recovery centers provide disaster survivors with information from Florida agencies, the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Individuals received help applying for federal assistance and disaster loans, updated applications and learned about available resources.
First Watch opens on Collier Boulevard
First Watch opened its newest location Nov. 25 near the northeast corner of Collier Boulevard and Rattlesnake Hammock Road in Collier County. The Florida-based daytime dining restaurant serving breakfast, brunch and lunch brings a chef-inspired menu and rotating seasonal offerings to the 3,500-squarefoot space that seats more than 150 people, features a covered patio and serves house-made juices at an indoor-outdoor bar. Customer favorites include avocado toast, lemon ricotta pancakes and Million Dollar Bacon. Five times a year, First Watch offers a revolving seasonal menu that follows the sun’s position to source fresh ingredients. The restaurant at 8590 Collier Blvd. will offer its first seasonal menu in early 2025. It will employ approximately 30 people and will be open 7 a.m.-2:30 p.m. daily.
Fun Time Early
Childhood Academy receives $30K grant
Fun Time Early Childhood Academy has received a $30,000 grant from the Collier Community Foundation. The funds will support tuition assistance for children ensuring the mission to provide affordable, high-quality early learning education for underserved children from working families, preparing them for success in kindergarten and beyond. Fun Time Early Childhood Academy serves nearly 400 children, offering a nurturing environment that promotes early literacy, cognitive development and social-emotional growth. This grant will continue to support relief of financial stress on families, allowing parents to maintain employment or continue their education.
Canvassing Board meetings for the 2024 General Election.
By Aisling
COLLIER NOW
HOUSING
GOVERNMENT EDUCATION
CITY INVESTIGATION
NAPLES SUPERVISOR FIRED AFTER STEALING FROM CITY
A Naples stormwater supervisor has been fired from his city job and is now under criminal investigation after admitting he used two employees’ city credit cards to buy automotive tools, camping chairs and other personal items.
Jovan Stojisavljevic, 35, of Orchid Run apartments in East Naples, a longtime city employee, was terminated Nov. 25 after violating seven city policies, including lying about the purchases and failing to attend two scheduled administrative hearings. A joint Public Works and Finance department investigation showed Stojisavljevic, a Streets
& Stormwater Division supervisor, purchased knives, a spear, camping chairs, YETI tumblers, automotive tools, automotive test equipment and tool chests.
“An active criminal investigation is ongoing as of Nov. 25,” said Naples Police Lt. Bryan McGinn, a department spokesman, adding that he can’t provide further information. “Once the investigation is completed, more information will be made available.”
A police report shows Stojisavljevic is being investigated on grand theft charges involving embezzlement of between $20,000 and
$100,000 of city property, a second-degree felony punishable by up to 15 years in state prison and a $10,000 fine.
An anonymous letter sent by a “concerned” business owner to City Council members, City Manager Jay Boodheshwar and City Finance Director Gary Young reported that Stojisavljevic had purchased tools worth “thousands of dollars,” sold them and pocketed the cash. He also bragged that he rarely needed to purchase gas for his vehicle because he fills gas cans at city pumps and “sneaks” them out. The tipster said he’d heard rumors for months but ignored them until his employees told him Stojisavljevic offered to sell them tools.
“Jovan Stojisavljevic feels very emboldened that he will not get caught, so he must have someone covering for him,” the letter said.
HE’S EVERYWHERE!
Wine divinity’s likeness around Naples celebrates festival’s 25th year
By Harriet Howard Heithaus harriet.heithaus@naplespress.com
Expectations are high for the 25th anniversary of the Naples Winter Wine Festival, but turning wood to stone takes the achievement to a stratospheric level.
That’s exactly what the festival has done, receiving from the Naples woodworking companies of Thomas Riley a commission for nine identical busts cast in white concrete to celebrate the milestone. Each of the 500-pound busts rests on a cube with the NWWF logo and the year 2025 stacked on alternating sides, creating a 5 ½-foot sculpture total. They’ve been located in public places around Naples from the airport to the Garden of Hope and Peace at NCH. (See the information box for locations.)
“We picked each spot carefully. These locations highlight the community partners who’ve been with us through thick and thin. We strategically picked spots where we knew people would stumble upon and enjoy these pieces,” explained an email from Simone Lutgert, a representative of the committee working on anniversary events.
“A cool bonus — we’ve got a 10th piece, the artist’s proof, which will be part of our ‘Trustee Treasure Trove’ live auction lot. This lot also includes an unbelievable collection of 239 bottles of wine,” she wrote.
Method & Concept, a Design District art gallery which also works in art consultation, suggested one of its artists, Brett Harvey, to create a work with the festival’s 25th anniversary logo. Its symbol is done in the modern style of Robert Indiana, whose famous 1964 LOVE sculpture compacts the word’s letters into two layers.
In contrast, the sculpture has classical roots: a bust of Bacchus, the god of wine and viticulture from Roman mythology. The Italian connection came from what everyone saw as the similarities of Naples, Florida, to Naples, Italy, said Chad Jensen, founding director of Method & Concept.
“We wanted to give them something contemporary, obviously with the logo, but something that also felt like it fit in Naples. So were able to do this really beautiful kind of classic interpretation of Bacchus but sitting on a cube that had the logo on it,” he explained.
It’s a departure for Thomas Riley Companies, which has given the festival some of its finest
“He recently told an employee, however, that he thought the city might be onto him, so he rounded up tools and put them in a city truck [so] as to appear that there were no tools missing.”
A police report says that on Sept. 20, attorney Michael P. Murawski, executive director of the city’s Commission on Ethics and Governmental Integrity, contacted a city detective about an ethics complaint he’d received from two city employees alleging possible misappropriation of city assets, theft and credit-card fraud by their supervisor, Stojisavljevic. The detective referred the complaint to the Human Resources and Finance departments for further investigation.
Trolley pilot program halted before launch
A controversial 50-passenger “Island Trolley” bus pilot program favored by Marco Island business owners and restaurateurs — but opposed by many residents — came to a halt before starting.
After residents’ overwhelming opposition continued at a Nov. 18 public hearing, City Councilor Darrin Palumbo made a motion to kill the pilot program — free to riders — set to begin in January. But because parliamentary procedures require a motion in the affirmative, Vice Chair Erik Brechnitz called for a motion to approve. There was silence and the motion died.
“It’s not really a fun position to be the swing vote and have some of your neighbors not even talk to you anymore because they disagree on it, but I did listen,” Palumbo said of his tie-breaking vote for the trolley during September budget hearings. “We’ve offered about eight solutions to parking and transit and nobody wanted any of them. … Welcome to the reality of trying to solve problems that are sometimes not popular.”
Palumbo said he always envisioned an open-air trolley, not a Collier Area Transit bus wrapped to look like an open-air trolley. He agreed the test program wasn’t popular and asked: “What are we going to do moving forward to solve the problems we’ve been elected to solve?”
The decision to end the $206,480 test was the culmination of months of opposition and an election that sent a resounding message that voters were upset Council didn’t hear residents’ demands. Brechnitz and Councilor Joe Rola voted against including the trolley in the 2025 budget. Website stopthetrolley.com urged residents to vote out trolley-supporting councilors Rich Blonna and Becky Irwin — and was successful.
Four newcomers won council seats Nov. 5, ousting two incumbents and filling two vacant seats when Chair Jared Grifoni termed out after two four-year
"Vinum Vitae" sculpture in the NCH Garden of Hope and Courage. "Vinum Vitae" (wine of life), are 9 statues that were commissioned for the 25th anniversary of the Naples Winter Wine Festival, designed by Chad Jensen of Method & Concept and sculpted by Brett F. Harvey. The statues are located throughout Naples, and can be
Swift
NAPLES WINTER WINE FESTIVAL MARCO ISLAND
See TROLLEY, Page 5A
Jovan Stojisavljevic
By Aisling Swift
See EMPLOYEE, Page 5A
NEAPOLITAN NEIGHBORS
‘ONE
OF THE SWEETEST THINGS’
Philanthropist, civic leader has helped Collier kids connect with more than 2 million books over 20 years
By Therese McDevitt terry.mcdevitt@naplespress.com
More than 30 years ago, Joanne Wyss and her Swiss-born husband, Karl, began spending more time in Southwest Florida. She, a longtime communications executive with McKinsey Consulting in New York, and he, a retired business executive, had also lived in Zurich and London before they decided to call Naples home.
The Wysses became deeply involved in several philanthropic areas in Naples, with special focus on three fields: health care, performing arts and early childhood education.
Karl suffered from heart disease, and after surviving multiple life-threatening scares, the couple became personally motivated to invest in the future of health care, specifically heart, stroke and vascular care. This dedication resulted in committing more than $3.5 million — so far — to the Naples Comprehensive Health capital campaign for its heart, stroke and vascular center.
Joanne Wyss credits NCH for saving Karl’s life on “a number of occasions” — and, she said, “We wanted to make sure that people could continue to get first-class treatment here in Naples.” Her husband succumbed to heart disease in 2022, but Joanne continues her dedication to ensuring the best possible care is available for all residents of Southwest Florida, and giving people the confidence to settle here with the assurance of outstanding health care as they age in place.
Giving kids a head start with books
But health care wasn’t the only philanthropic arena where the Wysses invested their time and financial support that resulted in a lasting legacy. Another of their key passions — early childhood education — led to the founding of what is now known as Books for Collier Kids, which will celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2025 and which has distributed more than two million free books to students in Title I schools, where 75% or more of students are on the free or reduced-cost meal program.
In 2004, while Karl and Joanne were volunteering in a tutoring program at Manatee Elementary School, they became aware that many of the kids were from families where English was not the first language, or they did not have access to books at home.
Through a friend, Joanne Wyss became aware of a national program called First Book, which provided books to disadvantaged children through schools and other organizations.
“They were able to get books at very low
From page 3A
auction lot elements, working with it since 2008. Among them have been a dining table that encases, beneath glass, the entire 65-year series of Château Mouton Rothschild artist labels from 1945 to 2009. Another work was an oversized, hand-carved wood replica of Joseph Krug’s 1848 personal notebook, inside which were housed rare Krug vintage Magnums. The French association with fine
prices through overruns and special production runs,” Wyss recalled in a recent interview. “She and I talked about this and put a small group together and co-founded a chapter of that First Book organization, which we called First Book Collier.”
That was in 2005, and the program started with book distributions to pre-K students in Title I schools in Collier County. Literacy champion Alma Powell, the wife of former U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell, was involved
wines — which have been a strong part of the Naples Winter Wine Festival — hasn’t been forgotten. The Bacchus bust is done in the classic style of Auguste Rodin, the famous French sculptor.
The sculptures will stand in their current locations until after the annual grant awards ceremony midMarch. After that, Method & Concept will handle sales of the sculptures, Lutgert’s email said. The festival is Jan. 24-26. For more information, see its website, napleswinefestival.com
with the national First Book effort and came to Naples for the launch of First Book Collier, reading to the pre-K kids in their classrooms.
“The kids were over the moon,” Wyss remembered. “They couldn’t believe that we gave them each a book, with their name in it. Many of them had never had a book before, and they certainly never had a book with their name written in the front. Many of these kids had never had anything new of their own.”
Wyss, who chaired the program for the first
11 years and remains on the board as director emerita, said she “still gets chills” when she thinks about the kids’ reactions.
“After they went down for their naps, Mrs. Powell and a few of us went to the room where they were napping, and they were on their little mats with their little blankets over them,” Wyss said. “And every child was clutching the book to his or her chest. It was just the most touching thing.”
The program distributed 7,000 books to pre-K students only during the first year. Now, Wyss said, Books for Collier Kids provides one free, age-appropriate book per month during the school year to every disadvantaged child from pre-K and kindergarten to first and second grades in Title I schools in the county. The books are tied to the curriculum the students will be working on in the classroom. By 2018, according to First Book Collier’s website, the organization had distributed more than 1 million books, and last year distributed 159,000.
“We also have been able, through the generosity of the community, to add in a summer program,” Wyss said. “A lot of these kids, when they’re not in school — it’s called ‘summer slide,’ and it happens to all kids, but it’s particularly a problem for children from low-income families where their reading skills begin to slide. So, we now give about 20,000 to 30,000 books a year in summer programs that are run by a lot of our partners in the community, where kids can get a steady supply of books over the summer.”
Among the organizations partnering with Books for Collier Kids, Wyss said, are Collier County Public Schools, the Boys & Girls Club of Collier County, Collier County Sheriff’s Office, Fostering Success, Future Ready Collier, Gargiulo Education Center, Grace Place, Guadalupe Center and Immokalee Habitat for Humanity.
Wyss said the upcoming 20th anniversary is particularly meaningful to her because the program involves many memories of her late husband working with the children they tutored at Manatee Elementary. She recalled how they would walk the children from their classrooms to the school library for the tutoring sessions.
“Karl had the greatest joy in walking from the library to the next classroom to bring the next batch of kids,” she said. “He just loved being with these kids and helping them. We had all these exercises where we would read and play games that related to the stories that were in the book. And every kid wanted to hold his hand on the way from the classroom to the library. He would have six kids, and they were all trying to hold his hand. It was really just one of the sweetest things.”
BROWSING FOR BACCHUS
The Brett Harvey Bacchus sculptures have been located, with the collaboration of merchants and government units around Naples, in the following places:
• Waterside Shops, 5415 Tamiami Trail N.
• The Continental, 1205 Third St. S.
• NTT General Store, 1010 Sixth Ave. S.
• Naples Bay Resort, 1500 Fifth Ave. S.
• Method & Concept, 111 10th St. S.
Suite 112
• Garden of Hope & Courage, 332 Eighth St. N.
• Bentley Naples, 800 Tamiami Trail N.
• Naples Airport, 160 Aviation Drive N.
• Naples Children and Education Foundation (grantmaking arm of the Naples Winter Wine Festival) Headquarters, 2590 Goodlette-Frank Road N.
Philanthropist Joanne Wyss in her home in Naples. Photo by Liz Gorman
From page 3A
On Nov. 27, the detective met with Young, who wanted to discuss the ongoing audit and internal investigation. He provided the detective with a sworn statement accusing Stojisavljevic of using city credit cards fraudulently and committing grand theft, and said city officials intended to pursue criminal charges involving theft of city property. Young said the audit is expected to be completed by early 2025.
Stojisavljevic, the son of a former 18-year city employee, did not reply to an email from The Naples Press or calls to two phone numbers listed to him.
Stojisavljevic’s personnel file shows he’s a Naples High School graduate and served three years as a U.S. Army infantryman, including in Afghanistan, before joining the Florida National Guard and ending his service April 26, 2018.
He was hired in June 2007 for two months as a summer Public Works Department intern, was then hired as a temporary employee and became a full-time service worker in the wastewater treatment plant in February 2008 and later moved to the utilities division. But he was terminated Aug. 20, 2009, five days after swerving into traffic, riding onto a median and crashing into bushes as a Florida Highway Patrol officer watched. He pleaded guilty to DUI, his commercial driver’s license was suspended and he was terminated because he couldn’t drive a city vehicle and his traffic violations that year, including speeding, exceeded city standards.
Records indicate he was an AFSCME union member, although he asked to stop paying union dues five days before the crash. The union filed a grievance saying he was wrongfully terminated, but he pulled his grievance and wasn’t represented. It’s unclear when he returned, but he was working for the city in May 2012.
He was moved to another division in 2014 as a utilities technician and rose up the ranks to senior technician and interim supervisor until he was promoted to stormwater operations supervisor in April 2023, when his salary increased from $53,668 to $60,182 annually.
Although there were concerns about his past driving record, his personnel record shows he was praised for his work and attitude, received bonuses and had the use of a city vehicle; he also was paid a monthly cellphone stipend so he could be on call. But he had another crash in 2019, which raised concerns.
His personnel file shows he was given a P-Card on March 12, 2019, for single purchases up to $1,000, or up to $5,000 monthly, at Home Depot, Lowe’s and other stores that accept P-Cards. He signed a form acknowledg-
Although there were concerns about his past driving record, his personnel record shows he was praised for his work and attitude, received bonuses and had the use of a city vehicle.
ing he could face termination and criminal prosecution if he misused the card.
P-Cards improve efficiency in processing low-dollar purchases, reduce small-dollar purchase orders and petty-cash use and reduce time spent by the employee’s department and the Purchasing and Accounting Divisions, which process the low-dollar transactions.
On Oct. 4, 2024, city management met with Stojisavljevic to inspect items stored onsite and to compare them to invoices. When questioned about items he’d purchased that weren’t found on city property, Stojisavljevic claimed he’d thrown some away and returned others to vendors for work under the warranty.
“Further auditing determined that many items purchased were not related to maintenance of the city’s stormwater system but related to automobile maintenance,” Public Works Director Bob Middleton wrote to Stojisavljevic in a notice of disciplinary action. “Many items were unable to be matched to an invoice and not found on city property.”
Ten days later, when management questioned him about using the employees’ P-Cards, he admitted he’d used them, opened his wallet and gave them back to management, along with his own P-Card. He said he was aware his actions violated city policy and was placed on paid administrative leave effective Oct. 15.
On Nov. 19, he refused to sign a Garrity Warning because his attorney wasn’t present. Named after a U.S. Supreme Court ruling, the warning protects an employee’s Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination by ensuring statements made during an internal investigation can’t be used in a criminal proceeding. Stojisavljevic was then placed on unpaid leave.
The administrative hearing was postponed a day, but that evening, Stojisavljevic texted city officials that his attorney couldn’t attend the next day either. He was discharged on Nov. 25 for violating seven city policies.
By Melanie Pagan
‘Tis the season of giving, and savvy donors know it’s not just who you give to but how you do it.
Year-end philanthropy offers more than goodwill; it’s a strategic move that pairs heartfelt effectiveness with substantial tax savings. You can maximize your contributions and financial benefits by carefully structuring and timing your gifts.
Gifting an appreciated asset, such as a stock held for more than a year, to a qualified charity can be a game-changer. That’s because you’ll avoid paying capital gains tax on the asset’s growth, explained Frank Aguilera, senior wealth advisor at Naples-headquartered Aviance Capital Partners. The charity can then sell the stock without incurring taxes because it’s tax-exempt.
“You’re achieving the same goal where you’re giving the charity money, but you’re doing it in a way that’s more tax-beneficial for you,” Aguilera said. “You’re keeping your liquidity intact by preserving your cash.”
If you’re aged 70.5 or older, Qualified Charitable Distributions offer another option.
You can donate up to $100,000 annually directly from your IRA to a charity. This move not only excludes the amount from your taxable income, but also counts toward satisfying Required Minimum Distributions for those 73 and older.
“Once you turn 70-and-a-half, the IRS allows you to gift a portion of your retirement
account, your IRA, directly to a charity. By doing so, it’s a non-taxable distribution,” Aguilera said.
If estate planning is part of your year-end financial strategy, note that it’s more tax-efficient to gift to a tax-exempt charity from an IRA account than to an heir because distributions from inherited IRAs are subject to income tax.
“If a charity is the beneficiary of an account, they don’t have to pay taxes on it. This then frees up other accounts to give to heirs,” Aguilera said.
With the current standard deduction up about 5% compared to 2023, according to the IRS and adjusted for inflation, taxpayers may have a harder time itemizing deductions and, therefore, might not see a direct tax benefit from their charitable contributions.
Donor-Advised Funds can help with this hurdle.
By contributing a large sum to a DAF in one tax year, you can surpass the standard deduction, unlock tax benefits and distribute charitable gifts from the account in the future.
“From the Donor-Advised Fund, you can gift to a charity over a certain period of time,” Aguilera said. “So, instead of giving one big lump sum to a charity all at once, you do the Donor-Advised Fund, and you’re basically funding the next few years of charitable giving.” A financial planner can give more nuanced insight based on your unique financial circumstances and goals. However, no matter your net worth, aligning your giving with strategies that maximize your effectiveness while minimizing your tax burden will make your generosity go further. For you, your family and the causes you care about most.
terms and Rola opted not to seek re-election after one. Newcomers Stephen Gray, Bonita Schwan, Deb Henry and Tamara Goehler were elected and swayed the vote.
The pilot program was tailored to gauge whether the trolley would relieve traffic congestion. However, residents contended it would bring more tourists and increase congestion on roads and in parking lots, where visitors would park to hop on a trolley to the beach, a restaurant and other popular spots.
During September budget hearings, residents urged Council not to include the trolley program. Instead, they asked Council to conduct a parking and traffic study or survey, let voters decide, consider re-enacting a toll on the S.S. Jolley Bridge or impose a trolley fee to gauge interest.
Stopthetrolley.com urged residents to attend the Nov. 18 meeting to oppose the proposed interlocal trolley agreement between the city and county. Before the vote died, Council discussed how the $206,480 could be used for other needs, such as a path from a parking lot to a dog park bench, infrastructure and repairs, or much-needed shade structures at Veterans Park.
“The past election already proved the residents do not want this experiment,” Councilor Goehler said to applause. “Therefore, we should halt this experiment, and with all due respect, never bring that back.”
Eight residents lined up to oppose it, calling it a bus to the beach, a “debacle.” None spoke in favor.
“We didn’t just want new blood,” Seaview
Court resident Stephen Rakoczy said, adding that councilors didn’t think residents would pay attention if their desires were ignored.
“We pay attention. We’re paying attention now. Please don’t be those people. We need people that will support us and drive what we need done.”
Nassau Court resident John Martini said an attorney advised him buses are only allowed in the commercial district as a permitted use, so a trolley would be out of compliance in other zones without approvals, including a conditional-use variance. He also noted there’s no place to pull over, which would stop traffic.
“Both the prior council members and the newly elected members are hereby put on notice that proceeding with the agreement without proper Planning Board approval exposes the city to significant liability,” Martini said. “Without obtaining zoning compliance and planning permit approvals, the liability you are exposing taxpayers to is completely unacceptable. … If someone is hurt or killed while exiting or attempting to board a bus, who is liable? Marco Island taxpayers, that’s who.”
The trolley would have operated from 9 a.m. to sunset, starting at Veterans Park, heading south on Collier Boulevard, looping around Caxambas Park and heading north on Collier Boulevard before stopping at Rose Marina and returning to Veterans Park.
The councilors’ vote doesn’t affect the existing CAT Route 21 service onto Marco Island, the Shops of Olde Marco and South Beach. That service begins at 5:50 a.m., heading south on Collier Boulevard, stopping at Manatee Road before heading onto Marco Island and making stops on Elkcam Boulevard, Winterberry Drive and JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort before heading off the island.
Frank Aguilera
YOU’RE NOT ALONE DEC. 25 WITH CHRISTMAS BREAKFAST AT HODGES
By Harriet Howard Heithaus harriet.heithaus@naplespress.com
A chance “Merry Christmas” has led to a Dec. 25 breakfast for all who are alone in Naples and Bonita Springs.
Tami Henion, events manager for Hodges Funeral Home, was out with her husband last year for some last-minute Christmas errands when they passed a senior woman who bade them a merry Christmas. They returned the greeting, at which point their well-wisher confessed, “It’s not merry. My Santa died.”
Her words hit Henion like an Arctic blast.
“I just wanted to pick her up and take her home because I’ve taken care of our parents. And they’re no
BREAKFAST ON CHRISTMAS
What: A Christmas breakfast for people who would otherwise be alone on Dec. 25
When: 9-11:30 a.m. Dec. 25
Where: The community rooms of two locations:
• Hodges Funeral Home At Naples Memorial Gardens, 525 111th Ave. N., Naples
• Hodges Life Celebration Center, 26051 S Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs
To reserve: Follow the QR code on Hodges Funeral Home’s social media sites, or call 239.221.0528
longer with us,” she recalled. “So, with them in heaven and this little lady walking around the parking lot, it was like — Oh!”
Henion decided to act on that
“Oh!” moment and approached her employers about opening the
two years of private rehabilitation — occupational, physical and speech therapy — and reached a recovery plateau. Continuing to research options for his wife’s improvement, Morrison tapped the expertise of his contacts in the medical field. He consulted with the Dean of the University of Minnesota Medical School, who suggested that he check with NCH Wingard Stroke Institute about the Vivistim procedure.
The Vivistim brand device is an advanced technology and the first U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved implanted neurostimulation device. The implant activates electrical impulses to stimulate the vagus nerve that runs from the brain to the abdomen, improving the ability to execute arm and hand movements necessary to perform daily living functions.
Morrison then spoke with several professionals from Johns Hopkins University, the Mayo Clinic and the University of Chicago Medical Center, who agreed they saw no harm in trying Vivistim, offering him a ray of hope. Last May, Morrison decided the procedure was right for his wife.
Atilio Palma, MD, neurosurgeon and NCH Director of Functional Stereotactic Neurosurgery, performed the surgery, making Susan Morrison the first in Southwest Florida to undergo the Vivistim procedure at NCH.
After the implant surgery, an occupational therapist initiates a six-week rehabilitative therapy program. The patient is also taught how to self-activate the device and to
funeral home Christmas morning this year. They could offer some togetherness time, with coffee and rolls, for people who were facing Christmas alone.
“They all loved the idea,” she said.
perform at-home exercises several times a day to achieve upper extremity mobility goals.
Six months later, Morrison reports dramatic improvements. His wife can pick up a glass and drink from it, pick up utensils, cut her food, feed herself, raise her hands above her head, wash her face and brush her hair.
“Susan can now play cards and she can shuffle the deck, which took her 3.5 minutes at first, but now, she
does it in one minute. She can put on a blouse, and while buttons remain challenging, her hand and finger dexterity are improving. We had been stimulating the implant for 10 seconds, now every seven seconds while she performs movements.
With Vivistim, I believe there is heavy potential for gains for anyone needing upper extremity help after stroke,” Morrison said.
Vivistim is performed on an outpatient basis, which requires only a
The funeral home has even extended the Dec. 25 breakfast so it will be available at both its Naples and Bonita locations. (For details and registration, see the information box with this story.)
This is not the first outreach Hodges Funeral Homes has made for people who have lost loved ones. The Naples home holds an annual candle lighting for those it has served over the year, with a reception and ceremony that allows each invitee to come forward and light a candle in that person’s memory. Some come multiple years. It was already a popular tradition before Henion joined the staff four years ago.
“I have 191 on my RSVP list right now,” she said before the Dec. 8 candle ceremony.
The Dec. 25 event is for “anybody who’s sitting at home alone
few hours of stay.
“The implant is placed in the neck at the vagus nerve, next to the carotid artery. An electrode is placed circumferentially around the vagus. A small pocket is created in the chest, similar to a pacemaker implant, and the lead is tunneled under the skin to that pocket in a battery or a pulse generator. After two weeks, patients can start occupational therapy rehabilitation,” Palma said.
“The therapist has a magnet that they ‘wand’ over the device that turns it on, and a gentle pulse that patients cannot feel stimulates the vagus nerve. The pulses strengthen the pathways in the brain that control arm and hand function. The outcomes have been wonderful.”
Therapy runs for two-hour sessions three times a week for six weeks. During therapy, Palma said he fully expects to have goals met and see actual results in arm and hand movement. After the six-week session, patients wand themselves during at-home exercises, continue learning and doing other tasks — and potentially improve. The device is not removed but remains in place; the battery lasts about 10 years. This potential for continuous improvement is a source of hope and optimism for stroke patients and their families.
“The treatment has been successful, and our patients are thrilled,” said Mazen AbuAwad, MD, Medical Director of the Wingard Stroke Institute at NCH. “Previously, aftercare for stroke patients included therapeutic rehabilitation only, with patients usually reaching a recovery plateau in six months. Now, any patient at least six months after suffering a stroke is eligible for the surgery,
on Christmas morning who doesn’t want to be sitting home alone,” Henion said.
The idea is just to bring people together to have someone to talk with over coffee and pastries on what is a universal day for togetherness, she said.
To get an idea of how much food to prepare, Henion is asking those who want to come to RSVP no later than Dec. 20. People can respond via a QR code on the social media sites or call 239.221.0528 to register; they can leave a message there and should specify whether they will attend the breakfast in Naples or Bonita Springs.
Henion said she has had no trouble finding fellow employees to help.
“I didn’t run short on volunteers for this event,” Henion said. “Our staff is great.”
including those who had a stroke 10 or 15 years ago.”
Morrison added that he had spoken with a senior officer of MicroTransponder, the Vivistim manufacturer, who suffered a stroke at age 28. Six months ago, 40 years later, the patient went through the procedure and therapy and has started using her upper extremities.
AbuAwad examines patients to determine eligibility; they must have some functionality in the arm.
“The treatment will not work on somebody who’s completely flaccid and cannot move, because it works in conjunction with therapy,” he added. “If patients qualify, we will set them up for specific rehabilitative therapy. The treatment has been successful, and we have had great outcomes. Until now, we didn’t have anything to offer to chronic stroke patients. This collaborative approach ensures that patients feel supported and part of a team in their recovery journey.”
Richard Foust, CEO of MicroTransponder, saluted Susan Morrison’s improvements:
“We continue to be inspired by Vivistim users like Sue, who are motivated to boost their post-stroke hand and arm therapy with our in-clinic Paired VNS Therapy and remain diligent with the self-initiated Vivistim Therapy to achieve their stroke recovery goals. She’s playing bridge again. This meaningful goal is coming to fruition through NCH’s commitment to being at the forefront of stroke care in Florida and providing stroke survivors clinically proven breakthrough technology.” nchmd.org (click the link to healthcare services/stroke) or 239.624.7410
Susan Morrison is able to grasp a spoon and feed herself, showing restored arm and hand mobility after she suffered a stroke over two years ago. Contributed
OUT & ABOUT
The Naples Zoo Gala ‘In the Land of Crowned Creatures,’ held Nov. 21 at the zoo, with black tie and crown preferred, raised money for Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, which attracts more than 400,000 visitors annually.
Photography by Liz Gorman
Ann Scott LEFT: Lauren Brown of the Naples Zoo feeds Stuart, a leopard tortoise.
ABOVE: Nelly Shotwell, Matthew Aritis, Stephanie Prebish, Richard Prebish
Rosemary Mirkwood, Lee Mirkwood, Donna Solimene Carly Schwartzel, Jim Schwartzel, Carin Keane, Samantha Tobias Kaleena Figaro, Roberta Veranek
Sen. Rick Scott, center, with WINK anchors Lindsey Sablan, left, and Corey Lazar
Naples Zoo Gala chairs Sheliah Wall, Nina Van Arsdale, Christine Homan Gary Harlan, Jody Lippes
Wilfredo Emanuel, Brian Denney Mary Anne, Kim Bertalini
“As soon as I walked in, I said, ‘This is it. This is the place,’ ” she said.
Hoxha already decided Naples was the right place for another family restaurant because the area reminds her of where she operates restaurants in Michigan and her native Albania.
“Me and my husband came for vacation, and we were driving by, and I stopped in Naples, and I fell in love with Naples,” she said. “Because I’m from a small town, Naples looks like a small-town vibe, everybody connecting, all those things. I’m going to open a place here.”
Born in Albania, Hoxha and her husband have three children, two of whom, Julian and Angelina, were born in the United States, where they have lived for 25 years. The family has operated the Dexter Riverview Cafe, a popular breakfast-lunch restaurant near Ann Arbor, Michigan, for 10 years.
“I just love what I do. I love what I do,” Hoxha said. “I just love being around people.”
Hoxha created the name GG Brunch Haus for the new restaurant using the first initials of the names of her husband, Gezim, and oldest son, Geraldo. Gezim “Jimmy” Hoxha, who started his food-and-beverage career at restaurants and hotels in Europe, has been a chef for decades.
“My husband started the busi-
ness, and Geraldo will build the empire. I want him to continue on,” she said. “And the Brunch Haus brings people together in the morning to have a cup of coffee and enjoy the moment and, of course, enjoy the meal.”
Gezim and Geraldo Hoxha will be chefs in the kitchen, while Albana will run the front of the house, eagerly welcoming customers during the cafe’s operating hours, expected to be 7 or 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.
“In Dexter, Michigan, I have very great customers, so I feel a very strong relationship. It’s hard to let them go, but that’s why I’m keeping both places at the same time,” she said. “I want to do something here that people can say, ‘Hey, we’re going to Albana’s GG Brunch Haus because we can find the great
food, great atmosphere and, of course, build a great relationship with each other.’ People want that. People want to have a connection with each other.”
That connection extends to an extensive menu. Some of the most popular specialty items on the menu include gyro pita sandwiches, corned beef skillets, Greek omelets and rice pudding.
“Everything is homemade,” Hoxha said. “When you cook with love, everything is special.”
DQ OK
Q: Is it true DQ will be coming to East Naples on 41? — Connie Main, East Naples
A: The status of a Dairy Queen Grill & Chill coming to U.S. 41 East was a question Jim Dolan dreaded
answering for the last three years. The Marco Island resident is finally feeling better about the new DQ franchise in East Naples that he will co-own with his wife, Cathleen. After a long, slow process, the couple nears the construction start of their drive-thru for the national fast-casual ice cream shop chain. It’s planned on the vacant commercial lot next to Texas Tony’s Rib & Brewhouse on the East Trail between Lakewood Boulevard and Rattlesnake Hammock Road.
“We’re getting close. The last month or so is the first time I’ve really felt comfortable talking about it,” Dolan said. Once started, the construction project is expected to take only 100 to 120 days to complete. The ground-up construction will include a 2,984-square-foot building with a drive-thru lane at 4535 Tamiami Trail E. with a canopy-covered patio at the front of the store, plans show.
“We were hoping for a groundbreaking in November, but our GC [general contractor] wants to make sure all the ducks are in a row, obviously, because if they start the project and have to pull equipment off, that’s going to jack the cost up a lot. He really wanted the last permit to be in hand; then we’ll be good to go,” Dolan said. It looks as if the wait is nearly over.
Roland’s life. Among them were:
• Purchasing a Vertical Reciprocating Conveyor, which is designed to transport equipment and materials, rather than a more expensive freight elevator; and allowing people to ride it, which is against the Florida Building Code and national laws.
• Making design changes that caused a 22inch gap between the lift platform and wall, when the manufacturer specifications recommended no more than one inch.
• Design changes were not reviewed with the VRC manufacturer.
• Building plans required guardrails, but the VRC lacked guardrails and was poorly lit.
• Inspections were conducted during the pandemic and were done virtually. The obvious design flaw wasn’t caught during inspections.
• People and vendors were allowed to use the VRC, which is designed only for transporting materials.
In April 2023, Roland sued New Country Motor Cars of Naples LLC, which does business as Ferrari of Naples; Snap-On Inc.; Oklahoma-based Autoquip Corp., a subsidiary of Miner Enterprises Inc. of Illinois; Interluxe Group Inc. of South Carolina; Elite Consulting of Southwest Florida, which does business as Elite Permits of Naples; general contractor EnviroStruct LLC of Bonita Springs; and Collier County.
Roland’s wife, Nicole, co-owner of Crave Culinaire, and daughter “Remi” also were plaintiffs under a consortium claim involving loss of companionship and how Roland’s injuries affect their quality of life.
In motions and counterclaims, defendants blamed each other and claimed Roland also was liable. Thousands of pages of court filings and depositions detail what occurred and who was to blame.
Roland told to use the lift
the lift on at least two other prior occasions.
As Roland entered the lift to bring down one of the last loads, he fell through a 22-inch gap between the end of the lift platform and wall, landing on the ground floor of the shaft. As he lay unconscious, the lift, which weighs several tons, descended — crushing and pinning him underneath. He was extracted and transported for emergency medical treatment due to major traumatic injuries, underwent surgery and was placed in a medically induced coma. Numerous operations followed.
The lawsuit alleged that due to local, state and federal laws, ordinances and regulations, Ferrari knew or should have known passengers were not allowed to ride the lift and Interluxe also should have known. The dealership also had a passenger elevator. There were no warnings against passengers posted on the VRC lift, although a dealership employee said they were told not to ride it; that was a known verbal policy.
A right-in/right-out turn lane off U.S. 41 that will connect to an access drive along the south of the future restaurant needs to be built. That required FDOT approval.
“We still have to build some way to get into it, and that was kind of the holdup,” Dolan said, noting that the state had about eight reviews of the plans. “Every time there’s a little change, it’s like two months because it’s like a month for them to review it and then it gets back to us and we have to change stuff and get back to them, so it’s like two months every time. That was kind of the massive hangup on it.”
He expects Collier County planners to sign off on the plans soon.
“We’re full go ahead right now, so hopefully within the next couple weeks we’ll hear back on it. It’s in full review right now,” he said. “We’re really excited to go forward and start selling some ice cream.” Plans for a possible miniature golf course behind the DQ have not been abandoned; they just have been temporarily shelved. Puttputt and a Peanut Buster Parfait still could be in the future mix.
“Our plan was always to get the restaurant up first,” Dolan said. “We didn’t think this would take nearly as long as it has.”
The “Tim Aten Knows” weekly column answers local questions from readers. Email Tim at tim. aten@naplespress.com.
“We are in our fourth round with the county for the building permit, but I think we’re at the very tail-end of that,” Dolan said. “So, the real big headache for like two years was the state Department of Transportation right-turn lane that we needed.”
In a past interview, Foman said part of the problem was that construction and inspections occurred during the pandemic, and the inspection was virtual.
“I don’t know how anybody missed it,” Foman said of the 22-inch gap. “… Ferrari allowed people to ride it and the law is abundantly clear that you’re never allowed to ride [VRCs]. … Many vendors used it before Brian fell. Unfortunately, it was an accident waiting to happen.”
Elite Permits, which handled the permitting process and inspections, settled last month. The company was founded in 2020 by a former county employee, Tatiana Gust.
The accident occurred a month after Roland and his wife had a baby girl, Remington — and shortly after Crave Culinaire had expanded to Sarasota, Venice and Siesta Key. That halted the expansion.
From 8-10 p.m. Dec. 4, 2021, the dealership was holding a grand-opening party arranged by event planner Interluxe and catered by Crave Culinaire. Ferrari instructed Interluxe that Crave Culinaire employees should use the car lift to transport equipment and supplies from the ground floor to the second floor, which was being used as a food preparation area. Dealership employees had shown Roland how to use
The county was immediately dropped from the lawsuit because governments have “sovereign immunity” from lawsuits. It issued a certificate of occupancy after relying on Elite Permits’ inspection of the VRC installation. The county argued that when a private provider is hired to conduct inspections instead of a county building official, state law says the government can’t be held responsible.
Autoquip, which researched, designed, tested, developed, manufactured, marketed, distributed and sold the VRC, settled last month, as did EnviroStruct, the general contractor that oversaw the construction of the shaft and installation. Autoquip had argued Maryland-based Penney Design Group LLC negligently designed the shaft space that allowed a 22-inch gap and that Automotive Design Group negligently installed the VRC; neither were listed as defendants.
EnviroStruct argued the gap was an “open and obvious condition that led to a patent defect,” that Ferrari should have known existed From page 1A
See CHEF, Page 11A
FOREVERGLADES
AURELIO’S RETURNS TO SWFL MARKET
By Tim Aten
Chicago-based Aurelio’s Pizza returned to the local market with a new takeout and delivery location that opened Dec. 3 on Naples Boulevard in North Naples.
After serving Naples for decades, Aurelio’s Pizza closed its Southwest Florida outpost in mid-September. Aurelio’s Pizza at Coastland Center mall in Naples was the last location in Florida for the Chicago chain known for its tavern-style pizza. It also formerly had locations on U.S. 41 in Naples and at Gulf Coast Town Center in south Fort Myers.
“We are returning to the market, and we are very, very excited about doing that,” said Aurelio’s franchisee Mark Lichtman, a North Naples resident. “I couldn’t be more excited to be working with the company and the brand, and
offering all of our incredible products to the community.”
Lichtman, who was general manager of the Aurelio’s location at the mall, now owns the new local franchise for the pizzeria chain. Aurelio’s moved into the former spot of the shortlived Romeo’s Pizza, which closed this summer at 6270 Naples Blvd., Suite 6, in the Sutton Place retail strip near Regal Naples cinema.
“Same center as Crumbl Cookies and Shea’s Lansdowne across from Costco,” Lichtman said. “It’s just takeout and delivery right now. We do have the opportunity to do some additional seating outside but that won’t happen for quite a while, and it will be pretty much grab-and-go seating.”
Although it’s a much smaller place than what local diners have been accustomed to, expect the same Aurelio’s menu of pizza, pasta,
BACI PIZZA RELOCATES, EXPANDS RESTAURANT IN EAST NAPLES
By Tim Aten tim.aten@naplespress.com
A name change signifies that Baci Pizza in East Naples is more than a pizzeria. It’s now Baci Trattoria & Pizza in a new restaurant space less than a mile away from its original location.
“We moved away from pizza, and this location is more like a trattoria. A trattoria in Italian means homemade-style Italian food,” said Baci owner Francesco “Frankie” Garofalo. “We’re famous for our pizza, so we still have pizza, but we upgraded a little bit.”
Baci, which is pronounced BAH-chee and means “kisses” in Italian, launched 10 years ago in a multiunit building on U.S. 41 East in East Naples. This summer, Garofalo had to close the long-time location of his original piz-
zeria ahead of a redevelopment project.
“We left the beginning of July and as soon as we left, they demolished it,” Garofalo said. “I don’t know what’s going there. The only thing I know is that for six months I’m not working.” Despite the respite, Garofalo believes his new full-service restaurant will be successful, building on the popularity of his previous location with the addition of more products and services. Baci Trattoria & Pizza opened Nov. 16 at 2740 Bayshore Drive in the same retail strip as I Love Curry. The new restaurant has an expanded dining space and menu for lunch and dinner.
“I came up with a lot of classic dishes that my mom makes at home, like homemade cavatelli and tortellini,” Garofalo said. “We concentrate more on the south side of
The new Baci Trattoria & Pizza serves pasta dishes, pizza, calzones, meat rolls, hot hero sandwiches, soup, salads, appetizers, desserts and chicken, fish and veal entrees. Photo by Tim Aten
Aurelio’s Pizza returned to the Southwest Florida market Dec. 3 with the opening of a takeout and delivery location on Naples Boulevard in North Naples. Photo by Tim Aten
Baci Trattoria & Pizza opened Nov. 16 at 2740 Bayshore Drive in the same East Naples retail strip as I Love Curry. Photo by Tim Aten
See AURELIO'S, Page 11A
See BACI, Page 11A
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when work was completed, and that Ferrari instructed the architect to move the gate housing to the building’s interior for a sleeker Ferrari aesthetic. And EnviroStruct said the gap wouldn’t have been an issue if the lift were used solely for transporting cars and equipment.
It argued it followed Ferrari’s design plans and under the law, it can’t be held responsible for injuries that occurred after Ferrari inspected the “obvious” gap and accepted the completed work. Courts have found that when a contractor follows designs and plans prepared by or for an owner, it can’t be held liable.
Design change led to large gap
In his deposition, Pete Beylo, of Penney Design Group, testified he was uncertain what company made the decision to purchase a VRC, rather than a standard freight elevator designed for cars, as other Ferrari dealerships had.
Industry websites show VRCs are used instead of a freight elevator when cost is a concern. They cost roughly 75% less, installation is
Vertical Reciprocating Conveyors fall under a separate national conveyor code, exempt from the stricter national elevator code because they’re used to transport materials, not passengers.
less expensive and they require less maintenance due to having fewer parts. Costs for many supplies had risen during the pandemic.
VRCs fall under a separate national conveyor code, exempt from the stricter national elevator code because they’re used to transport materials, not passengers. Someone must drive a car into the lift, exit the car, then use the stairs to meet the lift on another floor to drive the car out.
Beylo testified the design was changed from original plans. “The initial proposed lift would have had clearance issues,” Beylo said of a small gap between an overhead door and a coil. “When the lift raises, it would have hit that.”
To improve clearance, he testified,
sandwiches, salads, appetizers and desserts.
The brand’s top-selling item is its classic thincrust pizza, with the most popular signature variety being the Super Six — “the works” pizza with sausage, ham, pepperoni, green peppers, mushrooms and cheese.
“It’s going to be the entire menu,” Lichtman said, noting that Aurelio’s fans are already excited about the dining concept’s local reboot.
“The sign started going up and people start-
From page 9A
Italy cuisine.”
Expect Italian-American cuisine with roots in Naples, Italy, and Brooklyn, New York. “I was born in Italy. My parents immigrated [to New York] when I was 10 years old. That’s when I started making pizzas with my uncle,” Garofalo said.
Baci’s menu includes about 20 pasta dishes, pizza, calzones, meat rolls, hot hero sandwiches, soup, salads, appetizers, desserts and chicken, fish and veal entrees.
“And we’re going to do lots of dinner specials. So, every couple of days I’ll come up with a new dinner special,” Garofalo said. Grandma’s Pie is still one of Baci’s top sellers. The classic sheet-pan pizza features homemade mozzarella cheese topped with sauce and
the platform on the second floor was shortened by 22 inches horizontally.
“Would you have expected that a private inspector would have noticed a 22-inch gap in the back of the car lift on the second floor?” Foman asked Beylo. “It was something you could see when you opened up the garage door to the lift, right?”
Beylo said it was and agreed nothing would have blocked that view after installation — and up to the issuance of the certificate of occupancy.
Industry standards say if changes are made to specifications, the manufacturer should be consulted. Beylo said Penney Design Group hadn’t consulted with the manufacturer about the change and he believed it wasn’t its responsibility then. He wasn’t certain if others had.
ed coming in very, very happy and appreciative,” he said. “The community has been very appreciative and generous of Aurelio’s in Southwest Florida for decades, and we’re very excited to continue on the tradition.”
Aurelio’s Pizza CEO Joe Aurelio flew down with 500 pizza cutters and insulated bags for pizzas to give to patrons during the opening weekend. “It’s in celebration of our 65th anniversary and our grand reopening of our Naples location, as a thank you to our loyal customers over the years,” Aurelio said.
The business was fortunate to find a turnkey pizzeria opportunity to continue a rela-
basil. Baci also has New York-style and Sicilian pies, as well as 14 gourmet pizzas, including The Kitchen Sink Pizza with meatballs, pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions and peppers.
The restaurant has a full wine list and serves beer. Garofalo is working to secure a full liquor license soon, he said.
Baci has updated the quality of its service and hired more servers, Garofalo said, as the new restaurant has about four times as many seats for guests. The dining room is set for 65 people now and outdoor dining will be available soon.
“We can do private parties and events now. We already have 50 people booked for Dec. 19,” Garofalo said. “We do Pasta Night on Sunday; you get a salad and pasta for $11.95. We do happy hour Monday through Friday from 3 to 5 p.m.” Baci offers dine-in, carryout, delivery and catering services. The restaurant is open 10 a.m.9 p.m. daily.
Since Dec. 4, 2019, permitting changes were the responsibility of EnviroStruct, the construction management company, which settled last month. Ferrari of Naples settled last month and Snap-On in Collier County, which sold or distributed the car lift to the dealership, settled Oct. 28.
In her deposition, Ferrari of Naples Marketing Manager Emily Rose denied telling Roland to ride the lift, saying it was only to transport cars, equipment, furniture and supplies. She testified he’d used it during at least two prior events and he was concerned about the poor lighting. She testified another vendor used the lift during that night, but didn’t know what type of training Roland or that vendor were provided.
She was downstairs in the showroom when Roland fell. “I could see some commotion outside and … could hear him screaming,” Rose testified, estimating it took half an hour to an hour for emergency personnel to remove him.
She testified that the VRC was repaired after the accident. Depositions show lights and signs warning that chains should be secured were added and that an employee who often allowed people to ride the VRC was terminated.
In his deposition, Roland testified “almost every bone” in his body was broken. “Throbbing” and “shooting” pain limits his ability as a chef because he can’t stand or move for long periods. He also has balance and some speech problems.
“I’ve noticed a … significant change in the way I feel in the kitchen,” Roland testified. “I’ve lost a lot of confidence and … that’s been a tough thing on me overall. … Some days … I wake up and I feel good but some days, I wake up and it’s throbbing and I’m in pain from the second I open my eyes, so it’s just a matter of how I’m feeling that day.”
His ability to smell and taste, which are crucial for a chef, were “significantly altered,” but have come back slightly. “I’d say I’m still at only about 30%-40% of what I was before,” he testified.
“Prior to the fall, my palate and my sense of smell drove my success,” he explained. “So when everything became bland, I was kind of useless. I didn’t feel like I had that ability anymore.”
Since the accident, other employees, trained by Roland and his wife, stepped up into new positions and Roland has taken on more of a managerial role.
tionship with Naples that began in 1996, Aurelio said.
“I wanted to get something open immediately, so we don’t lose our footprint in Naples down there with our brand, so we found a spot that was ready to go,” he said.
The idea is to get this smaller location up and running, with the possibility to expand through another regional location eventually.
“We do look to grow, but we just want to get this one open and start serving the community again and take it one step at a time — but we would like to expand,” Aurelio said.
Joe Aurelio is the son of Aurelio’s founder,
the late Joseph A. Aurelio Jr., who launched the legendary brand in a Chicago suburb in 1959 and started franchising in 1970. The concept has 37 locations in five states, including Florida, where a huge fan base for Aurelio’s exists in Naples.
“Before they closed the old store, they had two of the busiest weeks they ever had down there with people stocking up their freezers with pizzas,” Aurelio said. “So, we’re excited to be back.”
The new Aurelio’s is open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Baci Pizza relocated this fall from its longtime space on U.S. 41 East to a larger, full-service
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A rts & LEISURE
CALENDAR
Ongoing events
A collection of masters
10 a.m.-6 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays; 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Sundays through Jan. 5 at Naples Art Institute, 795 Park Ave., Naples. “Adventures in Art: The Guild Hall Collection” brings some astounding artists’ works from the 20th century — Andy Warhol, Childe Hassam, Roy Lichtenstein, Elaine de Kooning and more. $15, $10 members. naplesart.org or 239.262.6517
Ritz Gingerbread House
Weekdays 5-8 p.m., weekends
11 a.m.-8 p.m. through Dec. 24 at Ritz-Carlton Beach Resort, 280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. Ritz-Carlton chefs present their 2024 Gingerbread House Experience. Free for local residents and resort guests. Valet parking fee of $10 applies.
North Pole on Third
4-7 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays
— The North Pole on Third: Fleischmann Plaza. Live Christmas music Thursdays and Fridays, snowfall at 7 p.m. all three days.
‘Christmas Story’ musical
7:30 p.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 22 at the Kizzie inside Sugden Community Theater, 701 Fifth Ave. S. Musical version, from Naples Players, of the famous film following young Ralphie’s Christmas quest for a Red Ryder BB gun. $50-$55. naplesplayers.org or 239.263.7990
Marco holiday comedy
7:30 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays, 3 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays through Dec. 22 at Arts Center Theatre, Marco Town Center, 1089 Collier Blvd., Marco Island. See Featured Event.
‘The Magic of Lights’
6-9 p.m. nightly through Jan. 4 at Paradise Coast Sports Complex, 3940 City Gate Blvd. N., Naples. Drive-through show of more than two million lights includes 32-foot, animated Mattel Waving Christmas Barbie, prehistoric Yule scene with life-sized celebrating dinosaurs, more. Advance: $19 car; at the gate: $32 car weekdays, $37 weekends. playparadisecoast.com
Arsenault retrospective
9 a.m.-4 p.m. weekdays now through Feb. 15 at Marco Island Historical Museum, 180 S. Heathwood Drive, Marco Island. Paul Arsenault’s “Reflections of South Florida: A 50-Year Art Adventure.” Free. themihs.info/ museum or 239.389.6447
Art mascots at Revs
10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays at the Revs Institute, 2500 Horseshoe Drive S., Naples. “Roaring Twenties, Rolling Art: French Automotive Mascots,” exclusive French car mascots (often called hood ornaments in the U.S.) from the Jon Zoler collection that are artist-designed small sculptures created for customers such as Hermès. $20, $15 for military, students, educators ($10 more for docent-guided tours). Advance tickets required for entry. revsinstitute.org or 239.687.7387
Shroud of Turin sculpture On exhibition indefinitely at Canizaro Exhibit Library, Ave Maria Library, 5050 Ave Maria Blvd., and The Ark Chapel, Ave Maria,
a commissioned 14-foot sculpture. Free. 239.280.2500
At Baker Museum
10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, noon-4 p.m. Sundays at The Baker Museum, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd. To Feb. 2, “Alex Katz, Theater and Dance,” artist’s collaboration with staging; “As We Rise: Photographs from the Black Atlantic”; to Jan. 5, “Becky Suss: The Dutch House,” inspired by the 2019 novel. $10; student or military (with I.D.), $5; SNAP benefits (with EBT card), $1; ages 17 or younger, free. artisnaples. org or 239.597.1900
Breakfast with Santa 8 a.m. first seating Dec. 13, 21-23 at the Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tíburon, 2600 Tiburon Drive, Naples. With Santa and Mrs. Claus, elves. Buffet, keepsake photo. Reservations end Nov. 29. $119.70; ages 2-12, $94.50; younger than 2, $18.90. Seatings on the half hour. Fees apply to all. ritzcarlton.com
This weekend (Dec. 13, 14, 15)
Holiday kids’ cooking
6-7 p.m. Dec. 13 in Big Corkscrew Island Regional Park, 810 39th Ave. NE, Naples. Kids learn to maneuver in the kitchen and use recipes for simple holiday treats. $10. Reservations required at collierparks.com
Golden Gate Jingle Bells Bash 6-8 p.m. Dec. 13 at Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples. An evening of music, games, inflatables, photo opportunities, vendors and more. $10. Call for registration. 239.252.4000
Tuba Christmas
6:30-7:30 p.m. Dec. 13 on Sugden Theatre Plaza. Holiday favorite concert of an all-tuba orchestra. Bring seating.
Voices of Naples Holiday Traditions
7 p.m. Dec. 13 at Grace Lutheran Church, 860 Banyan Blvd., Naples. The Voices of Naples sleuth out carols from around the world and time-honored favorites for their Christmas Traditions concert. Free. voicesofnaples.org
Cookies and milk with Santa 9-11 a.m. Dec. 14 at Donna Fiala Eagle Lakes Community Park, 11565 U.S. 41 E., Naples. Meet Santa and enjoy a cookie breakfast with him. $3. Preregistration required at collierparks.com
Santa Paws on Third
1-3 p.m. Dec. 14 at 1207 Third St. S., Naples. Santa and Mrs. Claus are on Third Street to bring a little Christmas cheer to your pet, too. They’ll be available to pose for photos and a professional photographer will be on site. 239.649.6707
Naples Boat Parade
6 p.m. Dec. 14 traveling between Morgan Cove and Tin City at the Gordon River bridge. Lighted, decorated craft with themes that range from sweet to silly float down the Gordon River. Select viewing spots at Naples City Dock for $20, but there are other rewarding places to watch, too. Proceeds to Ricky King Fund and Marine Industries Association of Collier County Foundation. For route, other recommended viewing spots, Dock tickets, see miacc.com
CAREENING THROUGH CHRISTMAS LORE
Amazon. Books on Tape. Short cuts to keep their lives focused on the play Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some) help community theater actors such as Melissa Hennig and Christopher Noonan through a snappy play that involves 30 roles, but only has six actors. Hennig and Noonan are onstage nearly every minute being someone new.
Noonan gives himself memory clicks for his characters via his costumes: “Let’s see, I have to wear a wig in this one. I’m a lady on fire in another. I’m Rudolph here; I’m the Grinch there …” He makes an hourlong commute from Estero every day, with audiobook entertainment, because he enjoys the play so much.
Hennig runs through 10 roles from a spectral Ghost of Christmas Past to a holiday game show host to a fruitcake peddler. But this is her specialty; she’s played as many as 15 roles an evening: “I’ve been doing short plays for years, so you might do two or three characters at one time in those.” Still, shopping for Christmas had to go online this year, she admitted.
Both are obviously having fun with a comedy that shows what happens when an acting troupe decides to give every holiday tale its due instead another year of Dickens. Every Christmas Story Ever Told continues at 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays, 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 22 at Arts Center Theatre, Marco Town Center, 1089 Collier Blvd., Marco Island. $30. marcoislandart. org or 239.784.1186
Annual Marco Street Parade
6:30 p.m. Dec. 14. Starts at San Marco Road/Balfour Drive and ends at San Marco Road/Barfield Drive. With floats, marching units, music, organizations in seasonal costume.
Holiday cookie decorating
6:30-8:30 p.m. Dec. 14 at Kava
Culture Kava Bar at Marco Town Center, 1017 N. Collier Blvd., Marco Island. Suited for adults, ages 12 and up. Includes cookies, materials, swag bag, prize drawing, free bar drink. $60. Registration required and closes Dec. 7. eventbrite.com
Voyces of Christmas
7 p.m. Dec. 14 at Norris Community Center, 755 Eighth Ave. S., Naples. The Carl Granieri Orchestra Voyces apply five-part harmony to Christmas songs from American tradition and other world cultures. $30-$35. eventbrite.com
Christmas Music at Trinity
5 p.m. Dec. 14, 4 p.m. Dec. 15 at
guest artist James Ehnes perform Anna Clyne’s Strange Loops and Tchaikovsky’s Souvenir de Florence $51. artisnaples.org or 239.597.1900
Next week (Dec. 16-19)
'Caruso' opera-lecture
3 p.m. Dec. 18 at Wang Opera Centert, 2480 Linwood Ave. , Naples. Lecture, 2:45 p.m. 1951 biographical film, starring Mario Lanza, of legendary tenor Enrico Caruso. 239.963.9050. Suggested donation $20 helps educational outreach
Clarinetist Ken Peplowski 6 and 8:30 p.m. Dec. 18 in the Daniels Pavilion, Artis—Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. Virtuoso jazz clarinetist who grew up playing polka but switched genres to join Tommy Dorsey’s orchestra and a host of others, working with musicians from Mel Tormé and Madonna to Leon Redbone. $54. artisnaples.org or 239.597.1900
Philharmonic Holiday Pops
7:30 p.m. Dec. 19-21, 2 p.m. Dec. 21-22 at Artis—Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. The Naples Philharmonic, with Jacomo Bairos, conductor; the Naples Philharmonic Chorus, Jeremy T. Warner, director; and the Naples Philharmonic Youth Chorus, Barbara Sletto, director, in its annual holiday show. $55-$85. artisnaples.org or 239.597.1900
Christmas at North Naples Church
5-7 p.m. Dec. 18 at North Naples Church, 6000 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples. Music timed to Christmas lights, Santa appearances, live Nativity scene, children’s Christmas experience and holiday concert with praise band, Naples Philharmonic brass and strings at 7 p.m. Free. VIP tickets, $25. eventbrite.com
Next weekend (Dec. 20, 21, 22)
Holiday Movie
5:30 p.m. Dec. 20 in Veterans’ Community Park, 901 Park St., Marco Island. Sponsored by Christmas Island Style and Marco Island Parks and Recreation. Free. christmasislandstyle.com
Trinity-by-the-Cove Episcopal Church, 553 Galleon Drive, Naples. Ancient, traditional and contemporary hymns from the chorus. Free but tickets are required, at trinitybythecove.org
Cars and Coffee
9-11 a.m. Dec. 15 at Mercato Shops, 9118 Strada Place. Ooh and ahh at the spectacular machines Naples car lovers own. Information on displaying your car at carsandcoffee239.com
Concert Band Christmas
2 p.m. Dec. 15 at Cambier Park, 755 Eighth Ave. S., Naples. Craig Greusel, music specialist for Collier County Public Schools, is guest artist with the Naples Concert Band for a concert of all things Christmas, from a sing-along to “Sleigh Bells.” Freewill offering. naplesconcertband.org
Ehnes plays Tchaikovsky
3 p.m. Dec. 15 in the Daniels Pavilion of Artis—Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. Members of the Naples Philharmonic with
Candlelight Christmas Carols 6:30 p.m. Dec. 20 in Cambier Park, 755 Eighth Ave. S., Naples. Precaroling food/beverage concessions available at 5:30 p.m. Lyric sheets and electric candles provided. Bring seating. Donations to Hope4Kids of Southwest Florida, hopeswfl.org
Unity of Christmas Extravaganza
6-8 p.m. Dec. 20-21 at Unity of Naples, 2000 Unity Way (off Davis Boulevard), Naples. Children’s activities of designing an ornament or stocking; music; prize wheel; walkway of 25 decorated trees and 80,000 lights; free hot beverages, cookies, popcorn. Sanctuary open for meditation. Free admission. unitynaples.org
‘Home for the Holidays’
7:30 p.m. Dec 20, 21; 2 p.m. Dec. 21-22 at G&L Theatre, The Community School of Naples, 13275 Livingston Road, Naples. TheatreZone’s original musical spectacular, with traditional and popular Christmas songs, elaborate costumes and Christmas-themed scenery. $50-$85. theatre.zone or 888.966.3352
Melissa Hennig, left, as the holiday game show host, grills a panel that pulls up a guest from the audience — who invariably gets the answers right — along with Scrooge-y contestant Christopher Noonan and his North Polar opposite, holiday-manic Ashley Kosten, in the Marco Island comedy, Every Christmas Story Ever Told Photo by Harriet Howard Heithaus
COVER STORY
THE NAPLES PRESS GIFT GUIDE
Are you still looking for gifts for your family and friends? Below are some unique gifts chosen by the staff of The Naples Press to help you finish making your list.
A year-round gift of the Garden
A gift of membership to the Naples Botanical Garden means an unlimited number of opportunities for the nature lover on your list to explore one of Naples’ most popular and beloved attractions all year long. The Garden beckons not just those with a botanical bent; it also attracts hundreds of species of birds and the birdwatchers who love them. Birders you’re buying for would love the “Birding in the Garden” tour, led by volunteers, that takes place every Tuesday at 8 a.m. More information can be found at naplesgarden.org or by calling 239.643.7275.
The gift of food for the holidays
DeRomo’s Gourmet Market has a vast selection of shelf-stable food items available for personalized gift baskets. Gourmet items include DeRomo’s pasta, pasta sauce, breadsticks, crackers, caviar, bruschetta, salami, cheese wedges, balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, olives, stuffed grape leaves, nuts, fruit preserves and sweets. The hand-picked items are arranged on a bed of shredded crinkle paper inside a wicker basket, and the finished baskets are wrapped in cellophane and topped with a decorative bow. DeRomo’s signature baskets range from $75 to $125. DeRomo’s anchors the Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 South Bay Drive, off U.S. 41 in Bonita Springs. For additional information, go to deromos.com
More than a thrift store
Better Homes and Bargains is more than a thrift store; it is a symbol of hope and community spirit in East Naples. The store offers an array of affordable treasures, including gently used furniture, clothing, household items and unique collectibles, ensuring something for everyone. Beyond its shelves, it plays a vital role in supporting local families by providing budget-friendly options and fostering sustainable living through recycling and reusing. For East Naples, it means access to quality goods — great gifts — at low prices and creating a hub of connection and opportunity. It is located at 11562 Tamiami Trail E., Naples (Hitching Post Plaza). Call 239.331.3157.
First step toward becoming a pilot
Flight instructors Lisa and Nick are in the holiday spirit. This Christmas, give the ultimate gift: the freedom to fly! With Naples Air Center, your loved ones can take the controls of an aircraft and soar above Naples. In just 35 minutes, they could be enjoying Key West, or reach the Bahamas in 45 minutes. Whether it’s a discovery flight or the first step toward becoming a pilot, this one-of-a-kind experience offers adventure, inspiration and unforgettable memories. Make the holidays extraordinary with a gift that turns dreams of the skies into reality at Naples Air Center—where every journey begins with the gift of flight. naples-air-center.com
Give the gift of experience
Most of us have many goods, but it’s hard to be too wealthy with experience. Gift tickets to an event or an attraction are a simple way to move one foot out of the boundaries for your recipients but intrigue them enough to be exciting. Theaters such as Gulfshore Playhouse offer flex passes that provide ticket vouchers — keep two, give two to that couple you owe a major debt of gratitude to and let them choose the play ($388; gulfshoreplayhouse.org). Or choose the play and give them seats beside yours ($90 for two tickets to a Naples Players work; naplesplayers.org ).
Preparing the next generation
For more than 33 years, The Immokalee Foundation has been preparing the next generation of leaders through a 100% focus on education, career readiness and professional development for students in Immokalee — from kindergarten through postsecondary education. The Foundation provides new pathways to success and financial independence through robust programming that prepares students for well-paying, indemand professional careers in Business Management and Entrepreneurship; Education and Human Services; Engineering and Construction Management; and Healthcare. These students’ gift to Southwest Florida is their desire and ability to be the workforce of tomorrow. Donate to honor someone at immokaleefoundation.org.
Transcend the chaos for the holidays
More than 750 studies, including more than 450 peer-reviewed studies, show Transcendental Meditation reduces anxiety, blood pressure and depression, lowers the incidence of strokes and heart attacks and boosts energy and focus. The Naples TM Center is at 704 Goodlette-Frank Road, where retired osteopathic doctor Frank DiChiara is the director. He also offers Ayurvedic consultations. The cost, which covers a lifetime, is based on income level, but there are discounts for couples, kids and students and scholarships or grants are sometimes available, such as for military veterans. Check out this unique gift on Facebook and go to tm.org/course-fee
Look sharp for any occasion
This is Donald Carlson, founder of Tweeds, wearing a beautiful wool, linen and silk blended custom-made jacket. This jacket pairs perfectly over a pair of jeans for a casual night out on the town. If you are looking for the perfect gift this holiday season, head over to tweedsgiftcards.com and purchase a gift card that not only provides a great gift but an unforgettable experience. Tweeds has five locations on the west coast of Florida and also offers mobile fittings. For more information about masterfully tailored custom suits, tuxedos and sport coats, call 941.698.6644 or go to tweedssuitshop.com
CHAIRS
Ingrid Aielli, Rufino Hernandez, Deborah Houk, M.D. & Christine Lublin
The scene on Fifth Avenue South during the Christmas parade. Photos by Liz Gorman
The Nutcracker hands out candy to local children.
Nikki Kent shows her Christmas spirit with a festive outfit.
Members of the JROTC, adorned in Santa caps, march in the parade.
FOOD & FLAVOR
HERE’S WHERE TO FIND NAPLES’ BEST HOLIDAY TREATS
’Tis the season for family, festivities and eating too many cookies. And while everyone loves a classic gingerbread man, Neapolitan shops and bakeries offer plenty of other holiday-themed treats to tempt your sweet tooth.
At Sassy Cakes, baker-owner Jazmine Cuccuini loves to experiment with whimsical cake flavors.
“Throughout the year, we see things trending online or [we think of] desserts from childhood that bring up nostalgia, and we turn them into cake,” she said. During the holidays, she’s riffing on two classic indulgences: peppermint bark and hot chocolate. For her Peppermint White Chocolate Cake, she layers white chocolate cake and Christmas Crack filling studded with crunchy candy-cane pieces and salty pretzels, then frosts the cake and decorates it with a red drip effect and shards of peppermint bark.
Chocoholics should opt for the double chocolate Hot Cocoa Cake. The magic is in the buttercream, which Cuccuini enriches with marshmallow fluff and hot cocoa powder, evoking a sense of childhood nostalgia.
Peppermint is also on deck at Narrative Coffee Roasters. The Mercato shop has several seasonal drinks on the menu, including a cinnamon-dusted snickerdoodle latte sweetened with cookie butter syrup, mulled chai, a popular peppermint mocha and an Old Fashioned shaken espresso inspired by the flavors of the classic cocktail (without the whiskey).
While you’re there, pick up a bag of the limited-edition Sweater Weather blend. A mix of Tanzanian and Honduran beans, the medium roast boasts notes of dark cherry, milk chocolate and cranberry — and it’s perfect for gift-giving.
Coffee pairs well with many of the Italian Christmas delicacies at Ambrosi & Sons Shelves are stocked with buttery cookies, nut-filled nougat and grappa-soaked cherries enrobed in dark chocolate. Chief among the sweet offerings is panettone, a fluffy sweet bread studded with candied or dried fruits.
“We have it for breakfast with coffee and for dessert with prosecco,” owner Rudy Ambrosi said. “It lets you know it’s the holidays.”
Recognizing not everyone enjoys candied citrus peel and raisins, Ambrosi curates a wide selection of flavors from artisanal bakers such as Pasticceria Filippi and Bonifanti, including lemon, fig, pistachio cream and chocolate-cherry.
“My favorite is the candied chestnut,” he said. “It’s probably the least-selling one, which is good and bad because at the end of the year, there’s probably a few left and I’m going to eat them.”
Lots of local bakeries offer frosted sugar cookies this time of year, but microbakery A Blessed Little Bake Shoppe wants little ones to get in on the action. In early December, owner and mom Adrianna Pantoja announced the pre-sale of her annual cookie kits.
Each contains a dozen individually wrapped vanilla sugar cookies; ready-touse piping bags of red, white and green frosting; and colorful Christmas sprinkles.
“We brought the kits when we went away for Christmas last year, and the kids had so much fun decorating the cookies,” Pantoja said.
At Angelic Bakery & Desserts, the holiday spirit means making sure no one feels left out. Owner Marina Nikolic did many rounds of research and testing to develop an adaptable recipe for iced sugar cookies that can be made gluten- or dairy-free. Her European-style yule log can be adapted to omit gluten, as well, without compromising the quality of the moist chocolate cake and fluffy buttercream.
Of course, every Southwest Floridian knows the best gifts come in little limegreen boxes. That’s the calling card of Norman Love Confections. Development of the chocolatier’s limited-edition holiday collection begins over the summer.
“We sit down and talk about customer favorites and then create a balance between popular favorites and creating new flavors,” Love said, noting the brand sells millions of chocolates between Christmas and Mother’s Day.
This year, the Holiday Collection counts rum-infused eggnog, minty dark chocolate, habanero-spiced hot cocoa and hazelnut praline among its 10 flavors. Love also debuted a Hanukkah Collection last month, which draws inspiration from classic Jewish recipes: babka, coconut macaroons, berry blintzes and raspberry-filled sufganiyot doughnuts.
“Flavors are the star of the show,” he said. “New ideas make us who we are.”
By Samantha Garbarini
Narrative Coffee Roasters, in Mercato, offers up several seasonal drinks to quench that holiday thirst.
Norman Love Confections offers a limited-edition holiday collection of delectable candies.
FRONT ROW SEAT
By Jean L. Amodea
Hearing a handbell choir can be an almost out-of-body experience, as you are encircled by the sublime reverberative tones of melodies and harmonies created by expertly played bells. The handbells are struck or played in coordination with other ringers, producing a soul-stirring visual and aural experience.
Throughout history, bells have played a significant role in many cultures. Their use dates back to biblical times (1400s BCE), when they were attached to the vestment of the high priest Aaron to signal his entry into the Holy of Holies and God’s presence (Exodus 28:33-35).
Bells have been rung to draw attention as a warning (think Paul Revere), a celebration, a call to worship or an announcement of the start or end of the school day or class changes. They also are sounded to lament a passing (the death knell) or mark the passage from death to life eternal, setting the stage for a joyful reflection of a life well-lived that can bring the listener to tears. The joy and celebration associated with these events are beautifully echoed in the ringing of handbells, uplifting the spirits of both the ringers and the listeners.
Lyricists have memorialized bells, whether they jingle-jangle, chime or ding-dong, in holiday favorites — “Sleigh Bells,” “Silver Bells,” “Jingle Bells” — and popularized them in tunes of virtually every genre, from the disco classic “Ring My Bell” to popular songs including “Church Bells” by Carrie Underwood and the hip-hop “Rock the Bells” by LL Cool J. And who can forget the most notorious of all bell ringers? Quasimodo, the hunch-backed, deaf bell ringer of Notre Dame Cathedral, who deftly swung from the rafters and bemoaned his unrequited love of beautiful La Esmeralda. This rich cultural and historical significance adds a profound depth to the art of handbell ringing.
And yes, there is a patron saint of bell ringers — Saint Dunstan of Canterbury, canonized in 1029. His feast day is May 19.
The process of bell ringing may seem simple, but it requires fluid, precise movements of the wrist, hand and arm. According to makingmusic.org.uk, “a handbell is rung by grasping it by the handle and moving the wrist, causing the clapper inside (which is on a hinge) to strike the outside of the bell, producing the sound … clappers only move in one plane (side to side), allowing the player greater control as the bell can only sound when it is moved in one of two directions.”
Wendy Willis, a professional flutist and 30year veteran of the specialty music genre, directed the North Naples Church Jubilation Ringers handbell choir for 17 years until her retirement last year. Now, she has stepped in as
interim director until a new appointee begins as music minister.
She said the 13-member choir usually rings three-octave musical pieces written for two to six octaves. In addition to a teamwork, keeping time and rhythm, the art form requires dedication to practice.
“The number one criterion is to be interested in trying handbell ringing and to learn to read music; it’s like a language. If someone is interested, they can learn. One must be physically able to handle and ring the bells and learn the techniques of holding and damping the bells,” Willis said.
“There are different-sized bells. The low-sounding or bass bells (C3) can be very big and heavy, and then as you go up to the higher-sounding octave bells (C7-C8), they get smaller. For the heavier bells, some [musicians] use an aid called a Rock-A-Bell. The bell is placed on a small fulcrum, and you press up on the handle, eliminating the need to physically lift the bell.”
Special cotton gloves with ribbed dots improve grip and stability in grasping the bells, protect the ringer from skin irritation with the metal and protect the brass casting from being tarnished by hand oils.
Choirs can consist of different configurations — from a highly experienced soloist, who moves across a table and handles all bell chores, to duos, trios and quartets. Each configuration offers a unique experience and challenges, making handbell ringing a versatile and engaging musical activity. Bass bell ringers are usually positioned in the background or behind the higher-octave bell ringers, adding depth
and harmony to the music.
“There’s a series called ‘12 Bells’ with six ringers holding two handbells each. Typically, 20 or 30 different techniques add interest to a musical piece. These include using a mallet or a wooden dowel or dropping the bell into four-inch-thick pads on the table that, when dropped, sounds like ‘hunk,’” said Willis. “The music is selected based on the choir’s ability, which is not overly complex. We perform carols, hymns and tunes such as ‘Amazing Grace,’ ‘All Day, All Night’ and ‘Nocturne.’
“The Raleigh Ringers, one of the premier handbell groups in the country, tackles secular tunes such as ‘Flight of the Bumblebee,’ ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ and even ‘Linus and Lucy.’
Our choir is always looking for new ringers and welcomes anyone interested in learning,” Willis added.
Isabelle Aubin, music director at Mayflower Congregational United Church of Christ, has directed its bell choir for two years. As a pianist and vocal and diction coach, she has more than 25 years of experience playing for singers, choruses and chamber music in Europe, Canada and the United States. The MCC all-volunteer bell choir comprises five to six members who perform for the largely seasonal congregation primarily during Christmas and Easter.
Aubin arranges the music of hymns and carols, taking into consideration that some members do not read music, which is not a prerequisite to joining the choir. Neither auditions nor previous musical experience are required; just a willingness to try one’s hand at the musical genre. This inclusivity ensures that everyone interested can join the handbell choir, foster-
BELL CHOIRS
North Naples Church Where: 6000 Goodlette-Frank Road, North Naples
What: 6-7 p.m. Dec. 19, Bell Ringer Party — a casual event with information about becoming a bell ringer; RSVP to wendywillisflutist@gmail.com
North Naples Church Jubilation Ringers practice: 7-8 p.m. Thursdays, September through April; open to everyone Handbell Performances: 8:15 and 11 a.m. services, Feb. 2, 23, March 30
Contact: nnchurch.org or 239.593.7600
Mayflower Congregational United Church of Christ Where: 2900 County Barn Road, Naples Handbell services: 9:30 a.m. Dec 22; 7 p.m. Dec. 24
Information on joining: Contact Isabelle Aubin at 239.775.0055
Contact: mayflowernaples.com or 239.775.0055
ing a sense of belonging and acceptance.
“Although the music can be complex, my arrangements are simple and without challenges,” Aubin said. “I teach the choir timing and how long to stay on a note. You need some muscle strength since you ring with both arms. Making music of any type benefits your brain and cognitive functioning; it’s good for morale and positive on many levels. Handbell ringing is not just about creating beautiful music; it’s also about personal growth, mental stimulation and social connection.
“The bell ringers bring something special to the service; it’s a good music ministry tool and an excellent way to involve the congregation. Our bell choir is on the left side, and the musicians are on the right, and they fill the sanctuary with music. The congregants love it, and it makes Christmas special.”
Alice Upshaw has been a handbell ringer at MCC for 15 years and plays bells in the medium range.
“The bell tones cover three or four octaves,” Upshaw said. “The lower-range bells with a deep bass sound are heavy and usually handled by a male ringer. As you get into the higher octaves, they lighten up; medium bells are two to three pounds, and those in the higher octaves that produce the higher tones are light in weight. We support each other; it’s fun and has little pressure.”
The handbell ringer choir of Mayflower Congregational United Church of Christ in Naples rings out holiday carols and hymns. Pictured are, front, from left, Lou D’Amico, Karen Bitler, Terry Rouseau, Kay Stanek, Alice Upshaw and unidentified; Back, Janice Cressman, Mike D’Amico. Photo by Isabelle Aubin
COMICS & PUZZLES
1. LITERATURE: Which Victor Hugo novel was made into an animated Disney movie?
2. MUSIC: In the song "The Twelve Days of Christmas," what was the gift on the eighth day?
3. GEOGRAPHY: Where is the Kalahari Desert located?
4. HISTORY: Who was the first African-American justice on the U.S. Supreme Court?
5. BIOLOGY: What is the process called in which a nonreproductive cell divides in two?
6. MOVIES: In the movie "Elf," what is the name of Santa's sleigh?
7. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What is the largest mammal on Earth?
8. U.S. STATES: Where did the first organized celebration of Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) take place in the U.S.?
9. ASTRONOMY: Which planet is the smallest in our solar system?
10. TELEVISION: Which 1980s-1990s TV family sitcom had a holiday episode titled "A Very Tanner Christmas"?
OLIVE
By Emi Burdge
THE NAPLES PRESS CROSSWORD
SPORTS
‘SO PROUD OF OUR KIDS’
Naples High falls in semifinal round of Class 4A football state playoffs
By David Wasson
ORLANDO — Naples High saw its high school football season end in disappointment Dec. 6, falling 18-7 to Jones High in the FHSAA Class 4A state semifinals.
The Fightin’ Tigers (14-0) advanced to play Plantation American Heritage Dec. 13 in the Class 4A title game at Florida International University’s Pitbull Stadium. Naples (113) had advanced to this round for the 12th time in the school’s 75 years and was vying to be just the fourth Golden Eagles team to reach the state finals. Naples won state championships in both 2001 and 2007 — one of only three Collier County programs to win state football crowns, and the only one to earn multiple state titles.
Naples put together a stellar season behind the dominant efforts of senior running back Shawn Simeon. The University of Toledo signee finished with 2,071 yards on 252 car-
ries with 21 touchdowns, his second straight 2,000-yard campaign. Simeon totaled 2,040 yards on 188 carries with 27 touchdowns last season. He is the only running back in Southwest Florida history to record two straight 2,000-yard seasons.
Simeon was Naples’ primary weapon against Jones, totaling 31 carries for a game-high 132 yards.
Simeon — playing despite a broken bone in his foot sustained three weeks earlier — also scored the Golden Eagles’ lone touchdown, a 1-yard burst to cap a 16-play, 69-yard drive that spanned more than 9:30 in the first quarter.
Unfortunately for Naples, Jones’ defense otherwise bottled up the Golden Eagles’ vaunted split-back veer offense; the Fightin’ Tigers limited their guests to 179 total yards.
Naples’ defense, which entered the final game with two playoff shutouts, had allowed only 9.6 yards per game. It was able to quell Jones’ high-powered offense for much of the game, helping the Golden Ea-
“As
they reflect on it,
it will be something really special for these guys ... They reset the standard here. They made these juniors and sophomores and young-buck freshmen know what Naples High School football is all about.”
—Rick Martin, Naples High School football head coach
gles to a 7-6 halftime lead. But senior running back Jaquail Smith (14 carries, 121 yards) and the Fightin’ Tigers put together two third-quarter touchdown drives for the final margin.
Naples finished second in Class 4A District 12 but avenged that setback by upsetting district champ Port
Charlotte 17-10 on the road in the region final. The Golden Eagles also extended their winning streak to 27 games over Barron Collier and won the annual Coconut Bowl matchup against Lely for the 15th straight year. Senior linebacker Khari Bendolph led the Golden Eagles in 2024 with
111 total tackles, while senior defensive lineman Albertini Tenor recorded a season-best 22 tackles for loss and nine sacks for a unit that totaled 105 tackles for loss and 46 sacks.
“I am so proud of our kids — who are sad right now — for being in the Final Four of one of the toughest playoff brackets in the entire country,” Naples coach Rick Martin said after the game.
“As they reflect on it, it will be something really special for these guys … They reset the standard here. They made these juniors and sophomores and young-buck freshmen know what Naples High School football is all about.
“I am indebted to them for that. I’m indebted to those seniors, this entire team, for that. To be the last team in Collier County playing football, to be the last team in Southwest Florida playing football, what else can I say about those guys? They have established a legacy here for as long as I coach.”
SHAWN SIMEON ACHIEVES
TRUE MEASURE OF GREATNESS
Speaking of Sports
David Wasson
How do you measure greatness?
In the sports world, we tend to do it with statistics. Raw numbers often rule the day — whether they be the fewest strokes in a round of golf or the most home runs slugged in baseball, it’s numbers, numbers, numbers.
Statistics can be an unfair tool for truly assessing greatness, of course, as the shrewd debater can twist said numbers to suit whatever narrative fits. Not to mention that there also is something to be said for character and values and teamwork.
So how do you measure greatness? You start with Naples High School senior Shawn Simeon.
Statistically, Simeon is uppercase Great. In fact, he not only is the best high school running back you’ve ever seen, but he can also now be considered the best running back I’ve ever seen. And I’ve seen more than a few.
How can I make that claim? Well, how about this: No player has ever rushed for more than 2,000 yards in two consecutive seasons in Southwest Florida. Not future Pro Football Hall of Famer Edgerrin James at Immokalee. Not all-world running back Noel Devine at North Fort Myers. Not future NFL stalwart Earnest Graham at Mariner. Not any of the bold-faced names that came before Simeon at Naples — players like Duane Coleman or Manny Morgan or Kendrick Raphael or Chez Mellusi.
But Simeon backed up a stellar 2023 junior campaign that totaled
2,040 rushing yards on 188 carries with a monster senior season in 2024: 2,071 yards on 252 carries.
Simeon’s 2023 production was fueled by the greatest single-game effort these eyes have ever witnessed: 30 carries in the playoffs against Port Charlotte for a school-record 387 yards and state-record seven touchdowns.
And Simeon’s senior campaign saw two more 300-yard games, as he gashed Fort Myers for 322 on 22 carries on Oct. 4, and then sliced Lely for 303 on 30 carries the next time out on Oct. 18. Simeon went into his final high school game Nov. 6 needing just 54 yards to reach the 2,000-yard summit again, and he
earned it by delivering 30 bruising carries for a game-high 123 yards in an 18-7 state semifinal loss to Orlando’s Jones.
Simeon’s final game in a Naples uniform might have ended with a loss, but he was all smiles after the game, knowing that he delivered for his team all season and did so for most of it with pain coursing through his body. Simeon developed turf toe — a ligament sprain in his left big toe joint that happens when the toe is forced past its normal range of motion — against Immokalee on Sept. 6.
Simeon worked weekly through that significant discomfort, only to break a bone in his right foot during
Naples’ second-round playoff game against St. Petersburg High on Nov. 22. Both times doctors told him he couldn’t aggravate either injury more, so he simply was held back in practice and saved it for Friday nights.
Piling up stats while playing through pain is no insignificant combination, but that alone doesn’t measure greatness in my book. However, when you add Simeon’s remarkable character, a quiet blend of confidence and genuine grace, into the mix, now we are talking about someone to remember.
Naples High coach Rick Martin tells two stories that speak to Simeon’s character. The Golden Eagles
had only a couple hours earlier lost the 2023 region final in Hollywood fashion — Dunbar returned a kickoff for a touchdown as the clock hit triple-zeroes — when Martin’s phone rang around 12:30 a.m. Simeon was on the other end, inquiring how his coach was doing after the heartbreaking loss.
What high school junior does that?
Simeon also was the happy guest of Immokalee United flag football player Eduardo Pablo Campos at the National Football Foundation Collier County Chapter’s annual awards dinner in March, because Simeon had struck up a friendship with the young man and because Campos wanted Simeon there as his invited guest.
What upcoming high school senior does that?
Simeon is off to the University of Toledo next fall, somehow only a three-star recruit who likely will dominate for the Rockets in the Mid-American Conference.
Maybe someday another superstar running back will come along and match Simeon’s consecutive 2,000-yard rushing seasons, and maybe another running back will pop for more than seven touchdowns in a single playoff game. Shawn Simeon won’t be remembered just for the on-field greatness he provided the Naples Golden Eagles, though. No, the true measure of greatness — for Simeon and anyone else — means a lot more than that.
Gulfshore Sports with David Wasson airs weekdays from 3-5 p.m. on Southwest Florida’s Fox Sports Radio (105.9 FM in Collier County), and streaming on FoxSportsFM.com.
Naples High School senior Shawn Simeon led the Golden Eagles to a successful 2024 season.
Photo provided by Naples High Schoot
When South Carolina native Roddy Cantey met his future wife, Naples native Sarah Witten, locally in 2009, he exclaimed that he had played against her brother Jesse in a USTA junior tournament 12 years earlier. These days, Roddy Cantey is co-commissioner of the Germain BMW of Naples Pro Tennis League, encompassing events at 11 clubs through April, with Jesse Witten returning as one of the players. These are just a couple of the many intriguing tennis interconnections among the trio.
Another: After the couple had won the annual Naples-Fort Myers Challenge mixed doubles title five consecutive times, Sarah needed a different partner in 2015 when Roddy had a knee replacement. Her easy choice was Jesse — with whom she had teamed up in USTA junior events years before, and in the U.S. Open mixed doubles qualifiers two months earlier — and they were victorious. Roddy and Sarah teamed up again for the 2016 edition of the event just 14 weeks after the birth of their twins (a boy and a girl).
“It’s always been fun playing with Roddy,” Sarah said. “We’ve played together in many exhibitions, as well as tournaments. It’s been kind of a date night for us for a long time!” Jesse was active on the ATP tour for more than a decade, including taking one set from superstar Novak Djokovic in the third round of the 2009 U.S. Open. He then began teaching professionally, was co-owner of a Naples youth tennis acade-
my and now spends eight months a year as a teaching pro at Kensington Country Club in Naples and other locations. He spends summers sharpening player skills in North Carolina.
Witten has won multiple men’s open and doubles crowns at annual area tournaments including the Sterling Oaks Spring Tennis Championships, Naples-Fort Myers Challenge and Clay in May at Cambier Park. He relishes the dynamics of the Naples Pro League.
“Most of the players know each other. We’re all so busy, so it’s so great to see each other at the events. It’s more about relationships, friendships. Player families come out. The tennis is a bonus,” he said.
Roddy has run the ProAm Tennis and Pickleball retail store in North Naples since 2008. It managed the Naples Community Tennis Center at the YMCA for a period, has sponsored numerous competitions and conducted many racquet demo events at country clubs. As a Master Racquet Technician, he recommends the type of string, tension at which it should be set, grip and more to match someone’s ability and playing style, and to provide maximum shock absorption in hopes of preventing tennis elbow. He estimated he and his staff have performed 113,000-plus restringing services over the years.
“Tennis gave me everything,” he said. “Now, giving back as much as I can is very gratifying.”
Sarah considered the arc of the sport and its role in their lives — from participating in clinics locally with Jesse when both were toddlers to how the couple’s three children love tennis and are taking lessons.
“Tennis and family … it’s now a full circle,” she said.
A Naples soccer academy’s logo will soon be featured at Paradise Coast Sports Complex, in its fan guide and at The Factory, a sponsorship that will allow Collier County residents to use The Factory’s open-air fitness facilities free during off-peak hours.
The Board of County Commissioners approved the $50,000 yearly sponsorship agreement between MSM Performance Academy and Para SFM LLC, an affiliate of Sports Facilities Companies, which has managed the 175-acre Paradise Coast Sports Complex for the county since 2021. The academy will pay monthly payments of $3,625.
Lucas Zeiler, a longtime soccer coach, said his academy specializes in individual development for advanced soccer players.
“Since arriving in Naples, MSM Performance Academy has attracted professional players, youth national team players and elite players from over 15 countries to come receive the best possible individual training here at Paradise Coast Sports Complex,” Zeiler said in an email.
on banners, its webpage, gym materials and a two-page center-spread ad in the complex’s Fan Guide. The agreement starts Jan. 1, 2025, and expires Dec. 31, 2026, with an option to renew. Commissioners unanimously approved the agreement without discussion.
fessional turf fields and will be home to a new professional soccer league, FC Naples, which starts its season in March.
“What makes our training special is our focus on mental performance. This is a powerful aspect of athletic development that is often overlooked.
“Parents and players love this unique approach because of its focus on family culture, player confidence, lifestyle habits and character development. Not only does our approach improve player performance on the pitch, but it instills life skills that transcend the sport and makes a significant impact in the lives of the families that participate,” he added.
Under the agreement, the first $10,000 in revenue generated will be retained 100% by the academy, and revenues over that will be split 50/50. However, group and non-resident gym activations may be subject to additional fees, with royalties retained by the complex.
The Factory, an open-air fitness center, offers multiple distinct fitness zones: hiking on the Lake Trail (which also offers strategically placed MoveStrong workout stations); the custom-designed National Fitness Court; the MoveStrong Obstacle Course; and an open-air weight area and classroom that can be rented by fitness and yoga teachers.
The sponsorship provides brand exposure at the complex, including logo placements at The Factory outdoor fitness center, in radio ads and
The Factory charges $8.56 daily, $26.75 monthly or $214 yearly to work out, but fees will be waived during off-peak hours for county residents under the sponsorship. Lining up sponsorships is among the requirements imposed upon Sports Facilities Management under its 2021 contract with the county.
Paradise Coast Sports Complex, located at Collier Boulevard and I-75, features eight pro-
Originally called My Soccer Mentor LLC, state Sunbiz records show the organization changed its name to MSM Performance Academy in January 2023. Zeiler was a coach for 10 years at Northeastern University and an assistant men’s soccer coach at Saint Xavier University from 2014-2015, and since 2017 he’s coached Chicago Fire Juniors and starters. In January, the academy will have a new website at performanceacademy.com
ProAm Tennis and Pickleball customers Michael and Denise Spain learn the features of new racquets from store owner Roddy Cantey. Photos by Randy Kambic
NAPLES
By Aisling Swift
By Randy Kambic
Roddy and Sarah Cantey and Sarah's brother Jesse Witten are all longtime fixtures in the area tennis community.
