THE CLUB AT GATEWAY
A Look Inside
32 YEARS AND COUNTING: UNITED WAY
SURPASSES ANNUAL
FUNDRAISING GOAL
SAVING CITRUS –ONE TREE AT A TIME
The Club At Gateway
AROUND THE CLUBHOUSE
Welcome to the Dog Days of Summer. Although activities have slowed a bit at The Club at Gateway, our members still enjoy a variety of fun game options.
Bunco is a dice game where players try to score points by rolling dice and matching them to the current round number. It’s a social, fast-paced game played with multiple tables of players, and its name comes from the highest scoring roll, which is rolling
three of the current round numbers. Bunco is played at the clubhouse in the Card Room on the first Tuesday of the month from 7 to 9 p.m.
Mexican Train is a domino game where players aim to be the first to play all their dominoes by connecting them to trains emanating from a central hub. The game features a shared train called the “Mexican Train” and individual “private trains.” Players must match the ends of their dominoes to existing trains to continue building them. Mexican Train is played at the clubhouse in the Card Room on the third Tuesday of the month from 7 to 9 p.m.
LCR, or Left Center Right , is a fastpaced dice game where players gamble chips, with the goal of being the last one remaining with chips. It’s a popular party game often played for money or other items. We play LCR at the clubhouse in the Card Room on the fourth Wednesday of the month from 7 to 9 p.m.
Join us for one of these fun evenings and meet some of your new friends at The Club at Gateway!
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Webmaster
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Lee Nostrant
Production Department
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THREE TIPS IF YOU ARE NEW TO EXERCISE…
If you are new to exercise, it’s essential to consider a few things before starting a new workout routine.
1. CHECK YOUR HEALTH
It’s important to consult your healthcare provider and get a physical medical examination before starting an exercise routine. This is particularly important for those new to strenuous and vigorous physical activities. An early checkup can detect any health problems or conditions that could put you at risk for an injury during exercise. It can also help you optimize your workout, making it easier for you and your personal trainer, if you choose to work with one, to understand your limitations and create an exercise plan tailored to your particular needs.
2. MAKE A PLAN AND SET REALISTIC GOALS
Once you decide to start exercising regularly, try to create a plan that includes attainable steps and goals. One way to do this is to start with a plan of easy steps to follow. Then you can continue building on it as your fitness level improves. For example, if your goal is to finish a 2-mile run you can start by building a plan that includes shorter runs. Once you can finish those short
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runs, increase the distance until you can run the whole 2 miles in one session. Starting with small achievable goals will increase your chances of success and keep you motivated every step of the way.
3. MAKE IT A HABIT
Another key component of exercise success is to stick to your routine. It seems to be easier for people to maintain an exercise routine in the long term if they make it a habit and do it regularly. All it takes is replacing an unhealthy behavior with a new healthier habit, an excellent approach to maintaining it in the long term. Furthermore, making a schedule or exercising at the same time every day are good ways to sustain your routine and make it last. For example, you can make exercise a habit by planning to work out right after work every day or first thing in the morning. It’s important to choose a time that works best for you.
WELCOME, NEW DIRECTOR OF AGRONOMY, SAM MUELLER
We want to introduce our new Director of Agronomy, Sam Mueller. Sam will step in and oversee all of the golf courses that LMGOF manages. He has an extensive background at high-level clubs, and we could not be more excited to have him on board and part of the Gateway Team.
Sam is a Class A Golf Course Superintendent with over 25 years of experience in golf course maintenance, management, and construction across Florida and the Southeastern United States. Known for his strategic leadership and innovative agronomic practices, Sam has successfully directed largescale projects and high-profile course operations with precision and vision.
He spent six years as Director of Agronomy at Old Memorial Golf Club in Tampa, where he managed all agronomic operations, led extensive renovation projects, and implemented sustainable turfgrass and water management practices. Before that, he was the Director of Golf and Grounds Maintenance at Vasari Country Club in Bonita Springs. Sam was also an Assistant Superintendent at both Fiddlesticks Country Club and Club Pelican Bay.
Sam also has a background in turf product sales and golf course construction, having held roles at LESCO Inc. and Wadsworth Golf Construction Company. His comprehensive industry knowledge is supported by an Associate of Science in golf course management from Florida SouthWestern State College and multiple professional licenses, including Florida Pesticide Applicator certification.
Sam is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, the Florida Turfgrass Association, and the United States Golf Association. His longstanding commitment to excellence and innovation continues to make him a respected leader in the golf industry.
He has been married to his wife, Stephanie, for the past 26 years, and they have two daughters, Madeline and Sophia. Madeline attends Florida State University, and Sophia will be a junior in high school. When not at work, the entire family enjoys fishing and snorkeling.
Please help us in welcoming Sam when you see him around the course.
Director of Golf at The Club at Gateway
GOLF NEWS
As the weather continues to heat up, we hope you can join us for our Summer Preview Membership at the club. We have many great opportunities for you to experience the club’s amenities throughout the summer months.
We will continue to offer golf lessons and golf club fittings throughout the summer. The Club
at Gateway Performance Center has enhanced our ability to fit members and guests for the clubs they need and has given us the opportunity to teach at a higher level with video analysis via Trackman. Even if you are not a member, please feel free to reach out to the golf shop to book a fitting or lesson with one of our golf professionals.
For those of you with Junior Golfers in the family, we just started our first Junior Golf Summer Camp on June 27. We will be offering five separate weeks. Four half-day camps from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. (ages 5 to12). All these camps include lunch, drinks and snacks. Our instructors will be covering all areas of the game, with plenty of time to spend on the range, putting green, short game area, and golf course. For more information please see the flier in the newsletter or to sign up your favorite Junior Golfer, give us a call in the Pro Shop at (239) 561-1010.
Travis Raque Director of Racquets at The Club at Gateway
RACQUET NEWS
HOW TO KEEP YOUR HEAD IN THE GAME
Success in racquet sports is rooted directly in your ability to handle emergencies. Your opponent, if they are at all skilled, will try their level best to present you with situations that surprise and/or unbalance you in their
effort to win points.
A clearly understood reality among first responders is that one will generally not rise to the occasion, but will instead fall to the level of their training.
Only the skills and responses that are fully integrated through purposeful and focused repetition are the skills and responses to be relied upon in an emergency.
Racquet sports, at their essence, are about creating emergencies for your opponent and defusing the emergencies they create for you.
Do the work so that you can enjoy the play! Fill your toolbox with reliable tools that are easily accessible to you and then practice choosing and executing the use of those tools in pressure situations until you respond automatically in the most logical manner for the situation at hand.
Remember that racquet sportstennis and pickleball - are both games of emergencies. So, be sure your practices reflect the concept held as truth by first responders and TRAIN UNTIL YOU OWN IT!
Continental Women’s Club
The Continental Women’s Club will hold its monthly luncheon meeting on Thursday, August 7 at 11:30 a.m. Our program will feature Miriam Ortiz, the founder of the Gladiolus Food Pantry, located in Harlem Heights. The mission of the Gladiolus Food Pantry is to reduce hunger by providing healthy, nutritious food while treating everyone with dignity and respect. In 2024 the pantry provided 8,263 households with over 1,000,000 pounds of food.
The meetings are being held at The Hideaway Country Club, 5670 Trailwinds Drive, Fort Myers 33907. The cost to attend the luncheon is $26. Please call Liz Paul at (239) 691-7561 by the deadline of Tuesday, July 22 for meal selection and to make a reservation.
Continental Women’s Club is a social, cultural, and philanthropic organization established in 1975, with membership open to women living in Lee County. We have many special events and interest groups within our club that you can participate in for social and educational purposes throughout the month and the year. In addition, we contribute to many local charities and award two scholarships each year to senior high school girls who plan on furthering their education.
The Transformative Benefits of Consistent Massage Therapy
WHY ROUTINE BODYWORK IS MORE THAN A LUXURY—IT’S A LIFESTYLE
In today’s high-stress, always-on world, many of us are seeking effective, sustainable ways to care for our bodies and minds. While the occasional massage may offer momentary relief, consistent massage therapy brings long-lasting, transformative benefits. Here’s how incorporating massage into your regular wellness routine can make a powerful difference:
�� 1. Chronic Pain Relief & Management
Regular massage therapy can ease conditions like back pain, arthritis, sciatica, and fibromyalgia. Techniques such as deep tissue and trigger point massage help reduce inflammation, loosen tight muscles, and improve mobility—offering a natural, non-invasive solution for pain.
�� 2. Improved Circulation & Detoxification
Massage stimulates blood flow and encourages lymphatic drainage, which helps deliver nutrients more efficiently and remove metabolic waste. This not only speeds recovery from injury but also supports your immune and cardiovascular systems.
�� 3. Stress & Anxiety Reduction
Massage significantly reduces cortisol levels (the stress hormone) while increasing feel-good neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Over time, this leads to a more balanced mood and greater emotional resilience.
쏘♂ 4. Enhanced Flexibility & Range of Motion
By reducing tension and increasing joint fluidity, massage can boost flexibility and help prevent injuries. Whether you’re an athlete or simply want to stay mobile, regular bodywork keeps you limber and strong.
�� 5. Better Sleep Quality
Struggling with sleep? Massage helps shift the body into a parasympathetic (“rest and digest”) state, promoting deeper, more restorative sleep. It’s especially helpful for those suffering from insomnia or sleep disturbances related to pain or stress.
�� 6. A Stronger Immune System
Reduced stress levels and improved lymphatic function mean your immune system can do its job more effectively. Consistent massage supports the body’s natural defense mechanisms—especially important during cold and flu season.
�� 7. Sharper Focus & Mental Clarity
Better sleep, reduced anxiety, and improved circulation all contribute to improved cognitive function. Regular massage helps you feel more grounded, focused, and ready to tackle your day with a clear mind.
�� Make It a Habit, Not a Treat
True wellness comes with consistency. Whether it’s weekly, biweekly, or monthly, setting up a regular massage schedule helps your body and mind adapt and improve over time. Thankfully, there are businesses out there like Massage Envy that make your new routine both convenient and affordable! Massage therapy is not just about relaxation—it’s about restoration, resilience, and long-term health. Take the time to care for yourself consistently, and your body will thank you for years to come.
To book your next session or learn more about our discounted wellness packages, visit MassageEnvy.com or stop into one of our 6 Southwest Florida Massage Envy Locations.
This article is a paid advertisement. The content was provided by the sponsor and does not necessarily reflect the views of this community or Seabreeze Communications.
Gateway Women’s Club
JANICE EATON, LAUREL BORGIA, MARIANNE KOLLASCH AND DONNA MARCHETTI
BILL SPRINGER SPOKE AT GATEWAY
WOMEN’S CLUB ABOUT CHEFS FOR SENIORS
DEBRA STEPHANO
The speaker at the recent Gateway Women’s Club’s meeting was Executive Chef, Bill Springer. As a graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, Bill has worked at top country clubs and hotels nationwide, cooked for Sweden nobility, United States Presidents and Hollywood celebrities. These days, Bill calls Southwest Florida home and operates a successful franchise called “Chefs for Seniors.” Their mission is to provide amazing food and proper nutrition for aging adults, busy professionals and individuals who may have certain dietary constraints.
Licensed, professional chefs at Chefs for Seniors prepare delicious, home-cooked meals selected from 12 seasonal menu options using fresh ingredients, purchased from the stores you prefer. Meals are prepared right in your own kitchen using their own equipment, or if you prefer, meals can be prepared off site. Your kitchen is left spotless, and you have multiple prepared meals complete with labeling and reheating instructions.
People say they look forward to their Chef visit and have a lot of fun chatting with them about
different things. Chefs undergo rigorous background checks, have many years of experience and are food safety certified. There is no contract, and agreements are flexible. For more information see www.chefsforseniors.com .
CHARLOTTE STEWART, PRESIDENT OF THE GATEWAY WOMEN’S CLUB, AND EXECUTIVE CHEF
AT CHEFS FOR SENIORS, BILL SPRINGER.
BOOK CLUB
JAN HARTZELL
The July Book Club will meet at hostess Kathy Fabisiak’s home on July 8 at 7 p.m. They will be discussing the novel Look on the Bright Side by Kristan Higgins. The co-hostess will be Mary Mills, and she will also lead the discussion.
This is a funny, romantic, and deeply moving novel about the unexpected rewards that come from life’s detours. Lark Smith has always had a plan for her life: find a fantastic guy, create a marriage as blissful as her parents’, pop out a couple of kids and build a rewarding career as an oncologist. Things aren’t going so well. For one, the guy didn’t work out.
Theoretically, she’d love to find someone else, but it hasn’t happened. Two, she’s just been transferred out of oncology for being too emotional. (Is it her fault she’s a weeper?) Three, her parents just split up. Deviating from the plan was … well, not in the plan. A potential solution comes from the foul-tempered and renowned surgeon Lorenzo Santini.
Please contact Kathy by July 6 if you plan on attending. Her information can be found in the GWC Directory.
SPECIAL EVENT
KATHY FLAHERTY
Over 40 women’s club members, family, and friends recently attended the Mighty Mussels game at Hammond Park. Although the home team lost, everyone seemed to have a good time. The group enjoyed the food of hot dogs, hamburgers, macaroni and cheese, and brownies. Of course, there was soda, lemonade, and water for anyone wanting nonalcoholic beverages. Alcoholic beverages were available at the cash bar. The “Mussel Man,” the Mighty Mussels’ Mascot, came to visit us. He posed for pictures. The climax of the evening was the great fireworks display after the game.
DINING OUT
SUSAN ROBERTS
One of the moving themes of the recently released movie Nonna’s is the connection of community in sharing a meal together. The movie highlights the sense of connectedness we feel when gathering around the table to enjoy the warmth and magic of good food and drink mingled with the joy of conversation and time spent together. These moments are when life is at its finest.
Nonna’s brings to life the Italian proverb, “A tavola non si invecchia,” which translates to “One does not grow old at the table.” The proverb recognizes that being surrounded by friends and loved ones through shared meals can make time seem to stop. It reminds us to slow down, relax, and appreciate the simple pleasures of life, especially the joy of gathering with others.
The Dining Out group of Gateway Women’s Club embraced this Italian proverb at its recent visit to Waxin’s, a newly opened restaurant at the Mercato in Naples. The ambiance and vibe at the Swedish restaurant set the stage for great conversation along with delicious, authentic Swedish dishes, and glasses raised with an enthusiastic cheer of skål!
The Waxins moved from Sweden to America with a vision to create a second home for themselves and their guests, while introducing their culture and passion for authentic Swedish cuisine. They designed the restaurant for their guests to enjoy the full Swedish experience.
The GWC diners sampled Swedish classics including toast Skagen, a Swedish appetizer consisting of butterfried toast with hand peeled shrimp, horseradish, and lemon-dill mayonnaise; Swedish meatballs served with a demi cream sauce, pickled cucumber, lingonberries, and potato purée; and wallenbergare, a double ground veal
CAROL AND GARY BROWN
KEN AND DOROTHY FREDA
steak with brown butter, green peas, lingonberries, and potato purée.
Waxin’s set the table for GWC diners to enjoy a taste of Sweden right here in Florida, while providing the perfect atmosphere to slow the passage of time through conversation and fellowship.
GRACIE HRINDA, BOB AND DONNA THAYER
PAM AND TERRY DWYER
DIANE BOGART, MARIA BEACHAM AND SUSAN ROBERTS
STEPHEN AND JOANN MONTALBANO
SIT AND STITCH ELEANOR STUART
The next Sit and Stitch meeting will be hosted by Judy Conrad on July 14 from 1 to 3 p.m. Please contact Judy if you plan to attend. Her information can be found in the GWC Directory. The group includes many GWC members working on different projects. The members are still working on projects for hospice and scarves for college-attending students who were in foster care. Any GWC member is welcome to join.
BRIDGE LAUREL BORGIA
Bridge 101 will meet July 1 and 15 at Hampton Park Amenity Center at 10 a.m. There is no fee. Anyone who wants to learn or enjoys playing bridge is welcome. The ladies are a low-key, fun-loving group! Contact Susie Kravetz (her information is in the directory). Email or call her if you plan to attend. She must give your name to the gate.
2025 SCHOLARSHIP CHARLOTTE STEWART
The Gateway Women’s Club Scholarship Committee had four applicants this year to comb through to pick this year’s scholarship winner. They were all remarkable young women with impressionable academic records, but two young ladies stood out above the rest: Samantha Delepiani and Daniela Suarez-Lorenzo.
Samantha carried a 3.91 GPA, had a 1390 SAT score, took a total of nine honor classes, five advanced placement classes, seven Cambridge AICE classes and 17 Dual Enrollment classes. Samantha will be heading to The University of Florida in the fall to study architecture.
Daniela carried a 3.97 GPA, had a 1360 SAT score, took four honor classes, seven Cambridge AICE classes and 16 Dual Enrollment classes. Daniela will
(L-R) SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS DANIELA SUAREZ-LORENZO AND SAMANTHA DELEPIANI WITH GWC PRESIDENT CHARLOTTE STEWART
also be heading to the University of Florida in the fall to study biology, she is on a premed track.
The Gateway Women’s Club would like to wish these two the best of luck in their
CLAUDIA POLZER, CHARLOTTE STEWART, PRESIDENT GWC, SCHOLARSHIP WINNER
DANIELA SUAREZ-LORENZO, SUSAN ROBERTS
future endeavors and are very happy to have been able to present them both with a $2,500 scholarship.
CLAUDIA POLZER, CHARLOTTE STEWART, PRESIDENT GWC, SCHOLARSHIP WINNER SAMANTHA DELEPIANI, SUSAN ROBERTS
Membership in Gateway Women’s Club is open to any woman residing in a Gateway community neighborhood, whether a full-time or seasonal resident. Gateway Women’s Club is not affiliated with the Club at Gateway and applicants do not need to be a member of the club to join Gateway Women’s Club. For more information or to obtain an application to join Gateway Women’s Club, please contact Susan Roberts, GWC Membership Chair, at skroberts77@yahoo.com.
The Spot For Gateway Greens
A WELCOME REFRESH TO LANDSCAPING AND MAINTENANCE!
Keeping the Gateway Greens community spaces in great shape is a top priority, and the recent landscaping efforts highlight the dedication to making these areas beautiful and welcoming for everyone. Here’s a look at the key activities that have been completed or are currently underway.
A FRESH START WITH A NEW SERVICE PROVIDER
• Drip lines with insufficient flush-outs and annual flower beds lack proper irrigation coverage
• Key improvements to the irrigation systems:
➢ Performed troubleshooting with main and ancillary controllers and hardwired the fixes to ensure successful operation going forward
➢ Repaired damaged valves along Mahogany
➢ Fixed non-functional zones near Walden Lakes’ entrance and Hidden Links to ensure that the sod stays lush and green
Big changes are happening! On May 1 our new service provider GreatView Lawn Care is bringing fresh energy to manage the landscape needs at Gateway Greens. This transition followed the conclusion of Mainscape’s contract on April 30, 2025, and marks the start of improvements to enhance our shared spaces.
WHAT’S CHANGED SO FAR?
A complete inspection of the irrigation systems was carried out with the new crew ensuring that no stone was left unturned. The inspection revealed:
• Damaged wire paths along Gateway Greens that needed fixing
• Rotors that weren’t watering properly because they were too low
• Valves and solenoids require repairs along Mahogany and Westlinks
➢ Adjusted irrigation to perfectly water the new plants
➢ Conducted a thorough wet check to ensure everything was just right for the community’s fresh flowers
Significant and comprehensive progress is underway to beautify our landscape:
• Weekly mowing, trimming and edging implemented
• Lawns were fertilized with insecticide to promote healthy growth
• Executed a much-needed trim to the palm trees, giving the community a polished and well-maintained look
• Shrubbery was pruned, and overgrown cul-de-sacs were trimmed for a fresh, inviting look
• Removed old annual plants and prepared the soil for new ones
• Applied fungicide to keep the soil healthy
• Installed vibrant new annuals, along with a mix of granular and Osmocote fertilizers for optimal growth
• Pine straw removed from planting beds to get ready for new mulch
• Mulch application started, adding a lovely finishing touch to the landscaping
WRAPPING UP
A big “thank you” for the tireless efforts of our Landscaping Committee for driving these efforts to enhance Gateway Green’s common areas! They and others spend countless hours dedicated to creating spaces that are not only functional but also a joy to experience. From fixing irrigation
WELCOME TO OUR GATEWAY GREENS NEIGHBORHOODS!
systems to planting beautiful flowers, each step is a move toward a greener, more welcoming environment. Residents can look forward to their community continuing to thrive and shine in the months and years ahead!
EXPERIENCE CALLAWAY GREENS
Did you know that the Gateway Greens community actually consists of multiple neighborhoods? You are probably familiar with Gateway Greens, Walden Lakes and Hidden Links as they have separate entrances off of Gateway Boulevard. But tucked inside of the Gateway Greens entrance are many distinct neighborhoods – each of which has their own name, personality and localized services. Going forward we will highlight these individual neighborhoods and introduce you to their leaders. The first neighborhood introduction will be Callaway Greens and their Neighborhood Association President Shannon Emond.
One of the first communities within the Gateway Greens development, Callaway Greens is comprised of 98 single-family homes bordering several of the scenic back nine holes and the practice par 3 and 4 holes of The Club at Gateway.
Callaway Greens is known for its beautiful live oak-lined entrance and additional live oak trees throughout the community. Many homes back up to lakes, including a large lake with two fountains which are lit at night providing a beautiful nighttime view. Both full-time and seasonal residents are very proud of the community, its design
The Spot For Gateway Greens
and landscaping which combine to make it a soughtafter community within the greater Gateway area. Neighbors are friendly and look out for one another. Block Parties are not uncommon!
Callaway Greens is managed by its own Homeowners Association (HOA), comprised of five elected resident members and our property management company, Tropical Isles. The Callaway Greens HOA collects quarterly dues for services provided by both the Gateway Greens master association and the Callaway Greens neighborhood association.
• The master association services include cable/ Internet, and maintenance of roads, landscaping and irrigation services for common areas.
• The neighborhood association provides landscaping and irrigation services to individual homes, tree trimming, lake fountain management, annual power washing of homes and annual roof cleaning.
These services are unique within Gateway Greens and another reason our residents enjoy our community so much!
MEET CALLAWAY GREENS NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT SHANNON EMOND
We met with Shannon to learn a bit more about her experiences, background and reasons for moving to and getting involved with the local HOA. Read on to get to know her better!
• What motivated you to serve as Callaway Green’s HOA President? When you move somewhere that has an HOA, it’s in your own best interest to understand what the rules and regulations of a community are prior to purchasing. Once you are settled in, getting involved ensures that the things that you are most interested in are either maintained or changed based on your own personal preferences and the broader “good” of your neighbors
• How would you describe your leadership style, and how have your life experiences prepared you for this role?
My 40+ years as a professional and executive in contracts and procurement fostered my interest in an HOA leadership role. My style is to be open, participative, and to actively seek information and feedback to improve our community. I like to invite vendors to speak to
homeowners, make sure that meetings are open and that discussions are encouraged.
• What are you most passionate about?
From a leadership perspective, it’s important to me to make sure that residents are informed and feel comfortable in bringing issues forward, and knowing that you have a voice that is heard – for both things that need improving as well as what’s working well!
From a personal perspective, I am passionate about maintaining my and Joe’s health and happiness so that we are able to do the things we want to do – including my volunteer work at Ronald McDonald House Charities of S.W. Florida (www.rmhcswfl.org ) where I spend 16-20 hours per month and help at fundraising events. The most fulfilling part is watching premature infants born at the Children’s Hospital who with their entire family, grow and thrive and eventually get home. Whether it’s providing comfort, ensuring the family has a clean room at the beginning of their stay or a hot meal at the end of a tough day, or helping them with questions they have, I know that I am making a difference.
• What qualities to do you most admire in others?
Those who look you in the eye and are honest even if their view might be considered unpopular.
• What’s your next travel destination?
This year it’s Canada to visit with longtime friends from Gateway and another trip to see family & friends from New York where our oldest son and his family reside. Next year we hope to go to northern Italy: Florence, Bologna and Venice!
• Favorite local restaurant?
Angelina’s and Harold’s
• What’s the most beautiful place you’ve ever seen?
That’s easy! I distinctly remember that flying over the Alps from Geneva into Milan took my breath away, and felt like I could reach out of the plane and touch the mountains. Unfortunately, no one on the plane spoke English so I had to keep my excitement to myself!
Thank you, Shannon, for your candid and heartfelt remarks – we are glad you’re here!
The Spot For Gateway Greens
MEET YOUR NEIGHBOR!
Another new series for our readers is introduced in this issue of Lifestyle: Meet Your Neighbor! Getting to know the fabric of our neighbors is part of the charm of living in Southwest Florida – and our Gateway Greens community has no shortage of great people. Get to know someone new in this first installment!
Maine is renowned for lobsters and so is one resident within Gateway Greens –Paul Maroon. Nearly every Friday night you can see him at the clubhouse enjoying a lobster roll with his partner Judy.
Paul grew up in Waterville, Maine, home to Hathaway Shirts, Colby College, and Chinet paper plates. His Lebanese Christian parents emigrated from Lebanon in the early 1900s, fleeing Ottoman rule. Like other immigrants, they worked in the textile mills as spinners, weavers, and packers. They raised eight children on a meager salary and tons of love. Lebanese food, lobsters, family fun, sports, and altar boy service consumed the life of him and his identical twin brother Peter. Senator George Mitchell was their playmate.
After high school he joined the Navy during the Korean War. He worked in radar on a destroyer and
was the social chairman. Enlistment gave him a wonderful experience as he traveled to Europe twice and northern Africa, learning valuable leadership skills along the way. After service, Paul graduated with a business major from Husson University in Bangor and founded and operated Paul Maroon Floor and Wall Coverings with his wife for 30+ years.
Maroon could no longer withstand the long winters, so 30 years ago he and his wife Mary moved to North Fort Myers. They were married 54 years before her passing in 2012. He and his son Stephen relocated to the Cypress Links neighborhood within Gateway Greens four years ago and love it. Paul enjoys playing bocce ball, Euchre, dining, cooking, and swimming – and does ALL of that at the youthful age of 93½! He loves sports and excelled in baseball, football, and basketball in high school. Paul rarely misses a Red Sox or New England Patriots game – in fact, he even has a season ticket behind home plate at JetBlue Park! He is a member of St. John XXIII Catholic Church and helps raise money for local charities in the Knights of Columbus.
Community service was a major component of his life. He served in several leadership positions in local government and organizations in
Maine and Florida. Paul started Little League and high school ice hockey in Winslow, Maine where he is honored annually with a booster award in his name. Maroon was also president of the Exchange Club and town planning office. In North Fort Myers, he developed the veteran’s memorial park and led the effort to convert his home community to a co-op. The property value tripled to more than $90 million in ten years!
Next time you have dinner at the clubhouse on a Friday night, stop by and say hello to the still very busy guy who is enjoying his lobster!
The Spot For Gateway Greens
INTRODUCING THE GATEWAY GREENS COMMUNITY CHANNEL: YOUR LOCAL HUB FOR INFORMATION
Say hello to the Gateway Greens Community Channel, our very own television channel on Comcast, which will be airing on Channel 195. The Channel was created with one goal in mind: improving information delivery across our community! We want to ensure everyone has a central place to stay informed – whether it’s updates, events, or valuable resources for homeowners, we’re here to make community communications easier and more accessible.
WHAT’S IN STORE?
We’ve got programming that’s designed with our residents’ diverse needs in mind. Here’s a peek at what you’ll find:
• Community Calendar: Don’t miss out on upcoming events and activities happening right here in Gateway Greens!
• Board Meetings: Stay involved with broadcasts of community board meetings for transparency and inclusion.
• Design Review Committee (DRC) Meetings: What you need to know about architectural and design updates in the neighborhood.
• Monthly Landscaping Schedule: Get the scoop on regular landscaping activities, like tree trimming and fertilization plans.
• Annual Planting Plans: Details on seasonal and yearly landscaping projects to beautify our surroundings.
• Infrastructure Project Timelines: Updates on new developments and maintenance projects across Gateway Greens.
• Community Messages: Announcements and notices from the Gateway Greens Community Association.
• Website and Portal Updates and Information: Easy tips to help you access and use our community’s online portal and stay connected through our community website.
• Design Review Committee/ Architectural Review Committee (DRC/ ARC) Information: Helpful guidelines and updates for homeowners working on projects.
WHAT’S NEXT?
The Gateway Greens Communications Committee is putting the final touches on the channel’s operations and content lineup. Keep an eye on your inbox for a formal email notification once the channel is live! This email will include programming schedules and everything you need to get started.
We’re pleased to be able to add this platform to further improve our communications; the Community Channel is a way to share important information and celebrate the vibrant community we call home.
YOUR SAFETY AND SECURITY
– A TOP PRIORITY!
At Gateway Greens, we place a premium on ensuring our community remains a secure and peaceful place to call home. Our comprehensive systems have even drawn the attention of other communities – they have visited us to observe and learn from our best practices:
1. Dedicated Gatehouse Staff and Community Patrols: Our gatehouses are expertly staffed by a contracted security service. This busy team processes between 800 and 1,300 guests and vendors each day during season. The Main Gate is manned 24/7, and the Westlinks Gate is staffed for most daytime hours. Beyond the gatehouses, this team also operates a dedicated security vehicle, to patrol our community daily from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m., ensuring every street in Gateway Greens is covered at least twice. While patrolling, they also identify and report street light outages or issues to ensure proper nighttime visibility throughout our community. In addition to physical staff, we also have 36 strategically placed security cameras to further bolster our efforts.
2. Best-In-Class Access Control System: Owners and tenants can register for a vehicle transponder to allow easy resident entrance. We also employ cutting-edge access control systems including security surveillance software and guest/vendor access systems. Our ISN software efficiently manages guests and vendors,
allowing us to record license plate and driver’s license numbers and vehicle make/ model information. Just register your guests and vendors on the ISN app or provide them with the daily access code. You can also use ISN to send a Flag Message to the gatehouse, another method for enhanced communication and security.
3. Dedicated Access Control Team: Our Access Control Team is dedicated to overseeing all aspects of our community’s security: issuing community credentials (transponders and passes), registering golf carts and low speed vehicles, and maintaining our gate operating systems (security cameras, video recorders, kiosk call boxes, and guest pass scanners). This team also manages excessive vehicle speeding with two “Traffic Hawk” monitoring units. Since deploying these devices, we have seen nearly a 50% reduction in speeding violations, contributing to a safer environment for everyone. To contact Access Control, please email walter@gatewaygreens.com or call (239) 406-1692.
Have more questions about gatehouse hours, registering guests/vendors, or obtaining windshield transponder stickers? Visit www.gatewaygreens.com, and head to the FAQ section – it’s designed to answer many of your common queries quickly and easily.
Whispers Of God…
DR. MARK P. GONZALES, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ROYAL PALM ASSOCIATION OF CHURCHES, SBC
CHERRY PICKED AMERICA
As we prepare to celebrate the founding of our beloved United States of America this month, my heart goes out to those who seem to be struggling with whether they view it as their beloved country or not. And I get it. We, like every other country in our weary world, have some serious issues. And things can get very confusing and adversarial when we talk about such things. But let’s give it a shot to hopefully help us celebrate our nation … together … in heart. I start with my Avalon.
My last four car purchases in the last 20 years or so have been Avalons. Why? Because I really don’t like car shopping, and those were the cars my dad had been buying in his latter years. In short, if my trusted dad thought they were the best, that was good enough authority for me. Hold that thought.
And once I bought my first Avalon, I began seeing them all over town like I never had before. Wow! They must have been talking to my dad, too! Uh, no. I just had Avalons on the brain for the first time in my life. Let’s hold that thought, too.
Now, I must tell you that being a grown man when it came to car shopping in those years, I did look at other vehicles and even
bought a stray Dodge, a stray Pontiac, and a stray Buick as second cars, but never a Ford. Dad had a bad experience with a Ford purchase in the ’60s and banned them from our family when I was about 8 years old. That, apparently, got stuck deeply in my craw and has stayed there, even in the face of irrefutable evidence that Ford has made many excellent models since then.
My Avalon saga is just one of tons of examples of how logical fallacies and cognitive biases impact what we do and believe in our heart about everything in life from our cars to our country. For example:
Appeal to Authority. Believing something is right only because a selected (cherry picked) “expert” says so. In my case, my dad.
Cherry Picking. Choosing sources, quotes and evidence that support a premise, argument, or conclusion while sometimes ignoring or belittling alternate evidence and views.
Attitude Polarization . Entrenching ourselves in a viewpoint we’ve openly committed to and even doubling down in the face of irrefutable evidence to the contrary.
So, when anyone is asked, or you ask yourself to what degree you truly appreciate living here in the United States of America, what gets stirred up in your gut? Really?
This is where cherry picking, appeals to authority (parents, teachers, schooling, historians, Founding Fathers, and founding documents, etc.), attitude polarization (due to wounds, indoctrination, prejudice, etc.), and so many more biases come into play. And that would be in all of us, my friends.
We all have attitudes and perceptions on real issues that get stuck in our brains that we tend to see everywhere like my Avalons. Varying degrees and acts of political corruption, social injustice, financial inequity, healthcare and election fraud, gender bias, systemic racism, ethnic exclusion, humanist indoctrination, and conspiracy theories are a few obvious examples. When we cherry pick and focus on any of those, then our hearts cannot help but conclude that America is not so great and certainly not so beloved.
On the other hand, if we cherry pick and focus on our country’s founding ideals, designs, hopes, and honest efforts to live out and even die for those designs as a nation since our inception—even in the midst of our inevitable struggles, complexities, and inequities (real life)—then our hearts can be grateful for a country that strives to be the “land of the free and the home of the brave.” Some of our Founding Fathers put it this way:
“All of us who were engaged in the struggle must have observed frequent instances of a superintending Providence in our favor. . . And have we now forgotten that powerful Friend? Or do we imagine we no longer need His assistance? . . . We have been assured, sir, in the Sacred Writings, that ‘except the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain that build it.’ I firmly believe this.” - Benjamin Franklin
“I now make it my earnest prayer, that God would have you and the State over which you preside, in his holy protection that he would incline the hearts of the Citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to Government, to entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another, for their fellow Citizens of the United States at large...”George Washington
“I hold the precepts of Jesus, as delivered by himself, to be the most pure, benevolent, and sublime which have ever been preached to man.” - Thomas Jefferson
“We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of Heaven; we have been preserved these many years in peace and prosperity; we have grown in numbers, wealth, and power as no other nation has ever grown. But we have forgotten God. We have forgotten the gracious hand which preserved us in peace and multiplied and enriched and strengthened us, and we have vainly imagined, in the deceitfulness of our hearts, that all these blessings were produced by some superior wisdom and virtue of our own.” - Abraham Lincoln
Cherry picking our serious issues to define us as a nation is not any more valid, useful, or compassionate than defining our families, friends, and even ourselves by our problems. We are much more than that.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are
Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. –Declaration of Independence, July 4, 1776.
God Acknowledgement was our Founding Fathers’ middle ground between their rejected premise of God Establishment (establishing a state religion with a particular God like England did) and the rejected premise of God Exclusion (the idea that there is no God or that He is not involved in nation building and protection).
This was an incredibly wise, balanced, and gracious foundational concept on which to build “One nation under God.” And this is why we do have freedom of religion, freedom of speech, freedom to pursue opportunities, and freedom to cherry pick—the good and the bad— to cultivate a humble love and loyalty for our country (or not), especially when we have many problems to solve. My hope and prayers are that we can find a way to do it together. Shall we?
Very grateful for our God and country, Pastor Mark (mark@quillpress.org)
Articles, videos and podcasts: markpg.org. Write and share at mark@quillpress.org. Hear me every Saturday, 8 a.m. on 91.5 FM.
Consumer Alerts
BCP STAFF, FTC
THIS HURRICANE SEASON, PREPARE TO AVOID THE SCAMS
Weather forecasters are predicting an aboveaverage hurricane season this year. When it comes to planning for a possible weather emergency, the more you know—and the earlier you know it—the better prepared you’ll be to avoid weather-related scams and fraud.
Kick-start your to do list so you’re ready for whatever hurricanes or other big storms the summer throws at us—all while avoiding scams. Here are some steps to start with.
• Check your insurance policy to make sure it’s current. Find out what’s covered—and what isn’t.
• Do a household inventory. Make a list of your physical possessions and document them with photos or a video.
• Keep key documents safe, but accessible. Use a lockable fireproof box to gather important documents, so they’re ready to go if you have to leave quickly. Include things like your household inventory list, Social Security and health insurance cards, copies of deeds, titles, wills, passports, birth and marriage certificates. Include some cash, since ATMs or banks may be closed, and an extra set of keys for your house and car.
• Check out home repair contractors before you need one. Ask people you know and trust for recommendations. Then search online for the company’s name with words like “scam” or “complaint.” Confirm the contractor has the required licenses and that they’re insured. Then add their contacts in your phone or lock box. And, while you’re at it, save DisasterAssistance. gov to help you find local help in a disaster. • Stay in the know. Bookmark ftc.gov/ WeatherEmergencies so you always know how to avoid a scam while you prepare for or recover from a weather emergency. You’ll find ways to help you spot, avoid, and report scams as you prepare for, deal with, and recover from extreme weather and natural disasters.
Catch The Action
CAPT. BILL RUSSELL
JULY ON THE WATER
As we progress into the heat of summer, fishing both inshore and offshore can still be good, just prepare for hot days and keep an eye on the weather. Many anglers prefer to get an early start and off the water ahead of the midday heat and afternoon storms.
Inshore, the mangrove snapper bite will continue to heat up. A variety of baits including shrimp, pilchards, herring, small pinfish, and cut bait will entice fish around docks, piers, bridges, under deeper mangrove shorelines, oyster bars, sand potholes, and rock ledges in and near the passes. Mangrove snapper is one of our tastier fish and fights hard for their size. They make a great summer target. They are leader and hook shy, if the water is clear, it’s often necessary to lighten the tackle. Inshore, I go with 2 feet or more of 12- to 20-pound fluorocarbon leader and a 1/0 circle hook or smaller.
The best snook and redfish action will come on days with strong tides. They can often be caught together around docks, shorelines, and structure around the gulf passes, as well as oyster bars and shoreline overhangs on the higher tides. Season for spotted sea trout and redfish is open, while snook season is closed. As the water warms
over summer months, some of the better action for trout will come from 4- to 8-foot depths in areas with a grassy or sand/grass mottled bottom.
Calm summer mornings will give good opportunities to run offshore. To the best of my knowledge, American red snapper season is open for the month of July for those willing to make the long run offshore. Please don’t take my word and check regulations before venturing out. It looks like both red and gag grouper seasons are closed.
To get updated on grouper, snapper, redfish, snook, sea trout and all current fishing regulations go to www.myfwc. com . Or download the Fish Rules app onto your phone.
Closer to land, wrecks and reefs can be productive with everything from snapper to barracuda to giant goliath grouper. Anchoring up current of structure with a fresh chum bag is preferred. A variety of baits is a good idea as well as an arsenal of rods rigged and ready for light to heavy action.
For fun and fast action offshore, look for bonito and Spanish mackerel harassing bait schools in depths from 30 to 80 feet. Silver spoons or Tuna Jets in various colors can bring instant hookups when trolled around feeding activity. Watch for birds and surface commotion to locate the fish. Also look around the artificial reefs. Spanish mackerel are also plentiful around the gulf passes and inshore around schooling baitfish.
Sharks are another summertime favorite. Varieties of species both large and small are common catches both inshore and off. While they are a nuisance for some, many anglers target them for their fighting ability. Sharks play an important role in our ecosystem; please make every effort to quickly release them unharmed. Every kid loves to catch a shark of any size, now is a good time, just make sure and do it safely for both the angler and the shark.
For charter information, please contact us at Gulf Coast Guide Service and “Catch the Action” with Capt. Bill Russell, call or text (239) 410-8576, website: www.fishpineisland.com , email: gcl2fish@live.com .
Capt. Bill Russell is a native and lifelong resident of Pine Island who has spent his entire life fishing the waters surrounding Pine Island and Southwest Florida. For the past 29 years, Bill has been a professional fishing guide who takes pride in customizing each trip to ensure everyone on board has a great time and will return again. Come join us and “Catch the Action.”
Saving Citrus – One Tree At A Time
KAREN M. MAXWELL, HORTICULTURE PROGRAMS COORDINATOR AND HORTICULTURE SPECIALIST
Recently, a team from the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) in Immokalee visited Edison and Ford Winter Estates to discuss the work they are doing on behalf of the estates to save the Henry Ford citrus grove that was planted in 2019. Over the years, the historic citrus has all but disappeared from our site; however, with the help of UF, this important chapter of our garden’s history is being restored.
Through the years, the fragrance of citrus blooms would have been a strong element of the estates as far back as 1892. When Henry Ford originally purchased his Fort Myers property in 1916, the seller and Edison
neighbor, Robert Smith of New York City, boasted that his property included “100 grapefruit trees, 50 orange trees, mangos, lemons, and limes.”
Earlier records indicate that upon purchasing his property, citrus was among the first trees Edison had planted. By 1917, it was recorded that nearly 300 fruit trees grew on both lots, meaning the east and west sides of McGregor Boulevard. Inventories of the time show 98 grapefruit trees, 59 orange trees, 10 tangerines, assorted lemons and limes and in 1929, kumquats were added. A review of old planting maps reveals an extensive network of citrus surrounding the caretaker cottage and Edison home. The Edisons frequently had Fort Myers caretakers ship boxes of fruit to their New Jersey residence, as well as to friends such as the Fords in Michigan.
The Edisons had issues with citrus, such as hurricanes and freezing temperatures that devastated fruit crops. Mina Edison championed her citrus trees and always included “fertilizing the citrus” on caretaker work orders, while Thomas insured plenty of trench irrigation to keep trees supplied with water.
A total of 50 trees, predominantly Valencia oranges with a few lemon trees mixed in were planted in the new grove in 2019. The trees were grafted on citrus rootstock selected for vigor and perhaps resistance to citrus greening. A large graft is visible about eight inches above the ground on original trees. Below the graft is the rootstock and above the graft is called the scion. Grafting enables the trees to become fruit
DR. TARDIO AND GABRIEL PUGINA EXPLAIN
THE PROCESS OF INJECTING ANTIBIOTICS INTO THE CITRUS TREES.
bearers in less than two years, where a seed grown citrus may take more than 12 years to produce fruit (this was a technique also employed by Edison).
Of the new grove, about 20 percent have been replaced or removed. At installation, the young trees were bagged with a white net that served as a prophylactic to protect the trees from the Asian citrus psyllid – a tiny bug that carries the bacteria responsible for citrus greening or huanglongbing (HLB). As the trees increased in size, larger bags were installed to allow the trees to grow a trunk large enough to support the drilling required for the injection site.
Origins of the disease trace back to China in the late 1920s, with the disease first documented in Florida in 2005. It is possible that the disease was present earlier, because one of its symptoms – the discoloration of leaves – may have been mistaken for nutrient deficiency while concurrently, officials were busy attempting to unsuccessfully eradicate trees infected with the deadly citrus canker.
SCIENTISTS
FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA, FROM LEFT TO RIGHT, DR.
CAROLINE TARDIO, GABRIEL PUGINA (PH.D. CANDIDATE) AND
DR. UTE ALBRECHT VISIT THE ESTATES.
Once the scientists realized that the discoloration was not evenly distributed on either side of the major vein on leaves, the random discoloration was named “blotchy mottle” and the disease was identified.
According to UF/IFAS, the popular and common periwinkle flower is easily infected with HLB-causing bacteria. Armed with this information, the readily grown plant was put through many trials of different treatments in efforts to find a cure. It turns out they responded very well to treatment with antibiotics.
As of today, there is no cure for citrus greening. Between the disease, the rapid value increase of farmlands for development and destructive hurricanes, Florida citrus production has fallen 90 percent from its highest production levels in the early 2000s.
While the disease has spread around the world, there are pockets that seem to have evaded the deadly insect. California, Europe and Chile have not yet reported the existence of the disease. Why did it hit Florida so hard? Probably because once it arrived, it was able to move without hindrance from grove to grove to grove. There are no large mountain ranges to interrupt its travel as in the areas just listed. Additionally, local weather is particularly hospitable to the Asian citrus psyllid, which prefers consistently warm temperatures and hurricane winds.
The application of antibiotics to stave off disease in trees has been used in Florida for nearly 70 years. In 2016, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved foliar application of oxytetracycline (OTC) and streptomycin for citrus trees in commercial applications. It was later discovered that the absorption rates of antibiotics were limited through the leaves due to their thick waxy coatings. Finally, in 2022, the idea of injecting directly into the stems of the trees proved much more effective and the antibiotics were taken up through the tree via its xylem – the botanical component of a tree that takes up water and minerals.
Farmers have concocted their own cost-effective method for building injectors to apply the treatment. Pictured, Ph.D. candidate Gabe Pugina applies dual injectors to distribute the OTC more quickly. Each application takes between 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the thirst of the tree. It may sound counterintuitive, but if the trees are well watered, they take up the drug much more quickly. Today, it costs farmers approximately $1.50 per tree, perhaps twice a year to administer the antibiotics. As opposed to losing their trees, it has been decided that this is a worthwhile expense – 10 trained farm hands can treat
DR. FRITZ ROKA (LEFT), DIRECTOR OF THE CENTER FOR AGRIBUSINESS AT THE LUTGERT COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AT FGCU, WAS ORIGINALLY RESPONSIBLE FOR BRINGING THE UF TEAM TOGETHER WITH THE ESTATES’ CEO, MICHAEL FLANDERS, TO ENABLE THE INOCULATION PROJECT AT NO COST TO THE ESTATES. ROKA SHARED THAT UNTIL THE TREES REGAIN THEIR ECONOMIC VIABILITY WITH STABLE PRODUCTION OF FRUIT, FARMERS WILL BE HESITANT TO REPLANT THEIR ACREAGE WITH CITRUS. OBSERVING THE PROGRESS OF THE TREES AT THE ESTATES, ALONG WITH ROKA WAS RON HAMEL (RIGHT), EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND GENERAL MANAGER (RET.) OF THE GULF CITRUS GROWERS.
approximately 10,000 trees per grove in a day. Inoculations take place immediately after flowering and any old fruit is removed from the trees. There is a six-month waiting period following injections before new fruit is considered safe for human consumption.
To date, there is no do-it-yourself kit for the homeowner because procurement of
TWO INJECTORS ARE INSERTED INTO EACH TREE, NEAR THE GRAFT SITE.
THE CURRENT CITRUS GROVE ON THE HENRY
FORD ESTATE PROPERTY IS PRODUCING CITRUS.
agricultural antibiotics requires a pesticide license due to obvious concerns about the potential consequences of improper use or misapplication of antibiotics.
Two of the biggest fans of the work being undertaken by UF/IFAS/Immokalee recently visited the estates to observe the progress. Dr. Fritz Roka, director of the Center for Agribusiness at the Lutgert College of Business at FGCU, was originally responsible for bringing the UF team together with the estates’ CEO, Michael Flanders, to enable the inoculation project at no cost to the estates. Dr. Roka shared that until the trees regain their economic viability with stable production of fruit, farmers will be hesitant to replant their acreage with citrus. Observing the progress of the trees at the estates, along with Roka was Ron Hamel, executive vice president and general manager (ret.) of the Gulf Citrus Growers. Their dedication to the industry is obvious and it was wonderful to observe their satisfaction with the progress and growth exhibited within the Henry Ford Citrus Grove.
LEAVES ON CITRUS TREES SHOW PSYLLID (THE INSECT THAT SPREADS CITRUS GREENING) ACTIVITY.
PH.D. CANDIDATE, GABE PUGINA, PREPARES AND INJECTS CITRUS AT THE ESTATES WITH ANTIBIOTICS TO HELP FIGHT CITRUS GREENING.
For anyone interested in the citrus research programs, IFAS/Immokalee is extending an invitation to their Citrus Open House to be held on Wednesday, November 19, where guests can meet the scientists and learn more about their research.
From The Desk Of Sheriff Carmine Marceno...
SEXTORTION AND OUR CHILDREN
It often begins in a friendly manner. Your child/teen meets someone online and the conversation begins. The meeting can occur in a messaging platform, through online video games, a text … virtually anywhere.
The child believes that she/he is communicating with a peer, perhaps someone interested in developing a relationship, and begins to develop a bond with this individual.
To many adults, the concept of “bonding” or establishing a relationship with a person that we have never met, and have only exchanged text with, is nearly inconceivable. To a child or a teen, it is commonplace.
Law enforcement, across the nation, has seen a significant increase in cases of “sextortion;” a crime in which individuals convince children to send inappropriate, explicit photos and then threaten to post them on social media sites, email them to family members, share with classmates, etc.
These criminals demand money, sexual favors and/or additional sexually inappropriate videos/photos.
In addition to threats to share these sensitive photos, these criminals have indicated that
they know where the victim resides, where family members work, what school they attend … and threaten harm.
Imagine the fear experienced by a young child or teenager caught in this position.
They feel unable to approach their parents or guardians having shared inappropriate photos. They are horrified to think about classmates seeing these explicit pictures. They are fearful that harm will come to them, to family members, pets, loved ones, etc.
As a result, they believe that fulfilling the demands made upon them is their only option. The demands are horrific.
It is highly recommended that parents and guardians discuss this crime with their children as soon as possible. Victims can be virtually any age; waiting until they’re “older” might not be prudent.
In reality, this is a technologically advanced version of the “don’t talk to strangers” conversation that we have all received as children.
“I recently read a story about a child who mistakenly sent inappropriate pictures to someone online. It must have been awful for that child.”
Montage Women’s Club
The Montage Women’s Club is a social and philanthropic club open to all women residing in Lee County. We normally meet on the fourth Thursday of each month. Our April meeting took place at the Hilton Garden Inn (Captiva Ballroom), 12600 University Drive, Fort Myers, corner of College Parkway at the Summerlin Road overpass. Meetings begin at 11:30 a.m. with a short social period followed by lunch at noon followed by an informative speaker program and a short business meeting. Within the organization are various interest groups for members’ participation. Membership is open to both year-round and seasonal residents. We welcome you to visit Montage for a luncheon.
Our next meeting will be held on Thursday, July 24. Our speaker will be Mike Corradino. who operated the Florida Monkey Sanctuary for 20 years where he and his staff cared for over 600 monkeys from 67 different species
with as many as 160 animals at one time. In addition to being the country’s first “official” monkey catcher, Mike served as the official gorilla consultant for Ringling Brothers Circus in 1968. Many zoos have adopted his techniques as well as having had published articles in several scientific journals. Mike was set to speak to our group in April, but due to unforeseen circumstances had to reschedule to July.
Luncheon fee will be $30 per person, and you always have a choice of either a regular menu entree (July is chicken marsala with mashed potato and vegetable) and/or a vegan plantbased entree (July is roasted cauliflower tacos with rice).
If you would like to attend a Montage meeting, need further information, or would like to make a reservation, please call Rita Artwohl at (239) 703-7787. Reservations cutoff to attend this meeting is noon, Thursday, July 17.
“Hey, has anyone that you know ever sent an embarrassing picture to someone only to have it shared at school?”
While the conversation is indeed a difficult one, find a way to open the door to this discussion. Ask your child if they realize how sharing sexually explicit material online can lead to a serious predicament. Ask them if they can imagine how another individual could use that photo/video to harm them.
Assure them that should they know of “anyone” in such a dilemma, they should always feel comfortable sharing that information with you. Children need to understand that they are not alone and that you are there to help.
Parents should immediately reach out to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (800-CALL-FBI) when learning about incidents involving sextortion.
32 Years And Counting: United Way Surpasses Annual Fundraising Goal
CAMPAIGN’S MESSAGE OF “UNITED WE’RE STRONGER” STRENGTHENS COMMUNITY
United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades met its $11.3 million annual campaign goal, marking the 32nd consecutive year that supporters have rallied to support United Way and its partner agencies.
United Way President and CEO Jeannine Joy, along with Campaign Cochairs Dr. Scott Nygaard, community volunteer, and Dan O’Berski of Trinity Commercial Group, were able to make the exciting announcement on May 13 at the annual Volunteer Appreciation event. This year’s campaign – United We’re Stronger – raised $11.3 million through pledges from employees of local pacesetter companies, businesses, and generous individuals.
“Our annual fundraising goal reflects the increasing needs of our partner agencies, which grow almost
every year,” Joy said. “To continue reaching or exceeding this target annually, especially during tough economic times, is nothing short of phenomenal. We are incredibly fortunate to live in a community where those who have the means to help are ready and willing to lend a hand to those who need our support.”
All money raised through the campaign stays in the local community to support the United Way human service network of partner agencies, which include Harry Chapin Food Bank, Community Cooperative, Abuse Counseling
UNITED WAY CEO AND PRESIDENT JEANNINE JOY SPEAKING AT THE VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION BREAKFAST
and Treatment, Children’s Advocacy Center, Literacy Council Gulf Coast, Boys & Girls Clubs, FISH of SanCap and dozens of additional organizations that serve a diverse range of needs in the community.
Throughout the campaign the “United We’re Stronger” theme was everpresent with O’Berski and Nygaard portraying the iconic Saturday Night Live characters Hans and Franz. And like Hans and Franz the campaign cochairs “pumped” the community up to help it reach another record.
“It’s always encouraging to see the community reach that number,” said O’Berski. “It’s a big number and it keeps on growing. Our community keeps on growing, so we know that the need keeps on growing. We keep asking and the community steps up and makes it happen.”
Nearly 52 percent of donations during the 2024/25 campaign originated through United Way Pacesetters, which consisted of 154 businesses and organizations that launched internal fundraising campaigns last fall.
This year, United Way recognized 180 individuals as Alexis de Tocqueville Society members, a designation awarded to supporters whose philanthropic gifts make the biggest impact on local nonprofits. Tocqueville Society members
contribute a minimum of $10,000 to United Way during the campaign.
About United Way
In addition to raising funds for human service organizations in our community, United Way promotes partnerships and collaborations among agencies, helping them to work together focusing on issues that continue to improve lives. United Way’s mission as a volunteer-driven organization is dedication to improving the quality of life for all people in our community. United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades was established in 1957 and over $243 million has been raised and distributed since that time. For more information, please call (239) 4332000 or visit UnitedWayLee.org .
LCEC ACCEPTING AN AWARD AT THE UNITED WAY VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION BREAKFAST