Gazzette
A Look Inside
Master POA Report
FRED THOMPSON
The summer is drawing to a close and the schools are opening again … hence the sighs we hear from the mothers! We are in the middle of our traditionally busiest “windy season” but looking forward to the calmer November period.
Our Master Board will meet at the end of this month to consider the 2026 budget. Each of the Directors prepares an economic plan for their area of responsibility. From that, our Treasurer, Mickey
Wheeler prepares the consolidated Master Board budget. About 75% of the budgeted expenses are contractual obligations for cable ($1,200K); access control ($430K); and landscaping ($215K). Our largest contract (Comcast) is a significant factor in the annual budget but produces a resident savings of about 50% over the current market price of internet and cable services.
At this time, we also review our capital and non-capital reserves. The Master Board does not own any buildings, so our capital reserves are centered in providing the funds for maintaining our roadway. We have 2 major non-capital reserves: the Berm and Buffer and the Restoration reserves. These funds are “voluntary” in nature since the life of the assets and the cost to replace them is unknown.
There was an interesting article in the Naples News earlier this year about the history of some of the names in SWFL. Did you know that the town of Alva is not named for Thomas Alva Edison. It is apparently named for a small white flower that an early settler in the area thought looked like a flower he remembered from Denmark. Estero is a Spanish word for “spring” because of all the small water springs in the
area. Lehigh Acres came from the founder of d-Con (Lee Ratner) who purchased a 20,000acre ranch in the 1920s and when he started to develop it wanted to advertise that it has the highest elevation (about 30 feet) in the area (hence Lee High). Matlacha may be an anglicized form of a Calusa Indian name which meant “water to the knee.” Whiskey Creek celebrated a 20th century moonshiner who was caught and jailed during prohibition and then returned to his location and chosen profession supported by his thirsty customers.
Collier County has some interesting names too. The County is named for Baron Gift Collier who made his fortune selling ads on bus benches in Memphis, TN. He visited SWFL and thought highly of the back woods
area. He offered the Florida legislature that he would make a sizable investment in this swampy corner of FL if they would split it off from Lee County. The legislature agreed to make a new county and Mr. Collier bought over 1 million acres in the new county and named it for himself. I wonder how many of those million acres the family still owns? Keewaydin Island is a small key (or island) off Port Royal. The name was a shortened form of the Indian name and is 80% preserves and 20% privately owned. James Biden (former President Joe’s brother) once owned a home there.
Following the recent bear attack, the Naples News published an article about what animals we fear
the most in Florida. No surprise, alligators are the most feared since there are about 1.3 million in FL. There have been almost 500 attacks in the last 75 years and 27 deaths. There are crocodiles too but only about 2,000. There are few croc attacks, but you could question whether a victim stayed around long enough to verify whether it was an alligator or a croc! Panthers are a dying breed and in general stay away from humans except for cars where their record is not good! Snakes are a common problem and
one worth avoiding. The TV news variety Pythons can be large but in general do not attack humans unless threatened and do not have a poison bite. Just a big bite! Bears too are an ongoing problem as developments creep up on their areas. However, they tend to be a nuisance instead of a personal danger, especially if you avoid bothering them.
In the water, of course sharks are the principal concern. There are few deaths but numerous bites that often end up on our TV news. Actually, the source of the most problems in the water are jelly fish. While they are seldom deadly their stings can ruin a summer beach day!
With these fun facts, enjoy your summer times!
EDITOR’S THOUGHT OF THE DAY
How to Get the Most from Your Comcast Service
Note that the most important step you can take to improve your Comcast experience is to do the following: Always call Comcast using the phone number registered to your Comcast account. If you use an unregistered phone, your call may be routed to a chatbot or an offshore agent. If you’re unsure which phone number is linked to your account, we strongly recommend visiting an Xfinity store and requesting that all your phone numbers be added.
The following email was originally sent to all Grandezza residents on June 21, 2025.
Re: Comcast “White Glove Service” for Grandezza Residents
At Last! The End of the Automated Comcast Phone System.
You will be happy to learn that we have finally convinced Comcast to replace the hated automated phone system with live agents. Comcast calls this their “White Glove Service” and is introducing it to their premier communities in SW Florida. Grandezza has been on a trial for several weeks, and we find it has worked in every case.
Here are the simple steps to take any time you need to contact Comcast:
• Call 1-800-COMCAST (1-800-2662278) or 1-800-XFINITY (1-800-9346489) FROM THE PHONE REGISTERED ON YOUR ACCOUNT DURING BUSINESS HOURS (7AM UNTIL MIDNIGHT).
• Follow the few prompts so that you are directed to the correct agent.
• You will be connected to a representative in the United States quickly.
• If you are having a service problem, the representative will probably try to solve it remotely.
• If that effort is unsuccessful, a technician appointment will be scheduled.
• If you have NO SERVICE, and the appointment is more than 24 hours away, please email Cheryl McFarland at cmcfarland@vestapropertyservices.com, and she will escalate the issue.
Feel free to email Cheryl with feedback from this process – good or bad. Grandezza Bulk Services Committee
Thank you, Cheryl McFarland, CAM, CMCA, AMS Vesta Property Services 239-947-4552 ext. 932
A Final Goodbye
YVETTE BERNOSKY, B.MS., DIRECTOR OF FITNESS & WELLNESS, THE CLUB AT GRANDÉZZA
“Yvette, I knew you would want to know right away that Marlene passed away today.” My stomach clenched, my heart sank and my body became numb. As tears filled my eyes, I tried to contain my emotions. I was about to embark on my long drive home from work and needed to focus.
There wasn’t a day that went by when Marlene wouldn’t say, “Be safe on your drive.” Our friendship spanned over twenty years. We were more than friends, we were family. I knew the time was growing near as her health had become frail, having faced many chronic issues. Each day was a struggle,
and it broke my heart to see her this way. Her passing felt surreal.
Arriving home, I quickly made my way across the street as they were removing her from her home. I didn’t want to look as I knew this would be our final goodbye. However, to my surprise, the next morning she paid me a visit. Over the years, we spoke about everything under the sun, including her passing, and that if there were a way she could communicate with me, she would. The agreement was that she would reach down and touch my hand or show up as a cardinal outside my window.
The day after she passed, I scanned through old photos and videos of our adventures and came across a video where we were pretending to be in a rock band – her on the bongo drums and me on the keyboard singing A-ha’s, Take on Me. We could barely hold a note, but we were stars in our minds. I decided to send this video to a group of friends, but I accidentally sent it to my co-workers! One person wrote back saying, “Everyone needs a Marlene in their life.” However, what happened next was astonishing. Within minutes of the video being sent, two of my coworkers set up for a class, and as they turned on the speakers, the exact
A-ha song came on! Startled, they shot a video of the moment, and the lyrics playing were, “Take me home… I’ll be gone...” What were the chances? Always intrigued by synchronicities, I had to think, was Marlene trying to communicate with me?
Then, as I stood in my kitchen pondering what had just happened, a squirrel began running back and forth relentlessly on the patio screen just outside my window. Slowly and quietly, I slipped outside to observe. He peeked his head around the corner of the screen, looked right at me, and began chirping. Naturally, I started making chirping noises back to him. This went on for several minutes. Coincidentally, for years, Marlene and I had played the “animal noise” game, even up to the week before her passing. I would call her, and when she answered, I would meow. She would respond with a quack, and we would go back and forth until she would finally say, “Are we done yet?” What were the odds that the squirrel had gotten me outside to “talk” to him?
There are just a couple of the reasons I believe the following morning was our final goodbye. Although there are no more good mornings, no more good nights, and no more I love yous. I was blessed to have decades of friendship. I was blessed to have a friend with whom, as adults, we could still be kids at heart. And, I am blessed to have so many fond memories that will always be alive in my heart. Thank you, Marlene, for a wonderful life with you. Until we meet again, my friend.
“Friendship isn’t one big thing; it’s a million little things.”
I learned a great deal from Marlene over the years. Good friends always surrounded her. She never failed to extend her friendship; therefore, she had many.
Friendships bring joy and happiness into our lives and give us a sense of purpose. Friendships don’t just happen overnight. They are composed of all the little moments along the way. Moments that deepen our bonds.
This statue of Marlene’s resembled her closest of friends at any given time. She kept a note in the middle with a list of names. Even as Marlene aged and friends unfortunately passed away, she never let it go without a complete list of friends.
Now that I have been entrusted with this statue, I will carry on her tradition and legacy, extending my friendship to many as I encourage others to do as well.
Writers Wanted!
In an effort to make the Grandezza Gazzette interesting and readable to our residents, we invite you to share your stories, experiences, and perspectives. We welcome articles about books, travel, pets, sports, TV and movies, tech, and/or content that will get our community talking and sharing! Just avoid topics such as politics and religion in keeping with our policy of avoiding controversy.
Please try to limit your words to between 200 and 600 words and feel free to include a couple of jpeg photos with high resolution. We’ll be happy to give you a byline!
Send your submissions to sjsherwin18@gmail.com.
Reader’s Corner
SUSAN SHERWIN
Fiona Davis has once again masterfully blended history and fiction together in her latest novel The Stolen Queen. Known for her dual-timeline narratives set against iconic backdrops, Davis takes readers on a journey that weaves past and present with meticulous research and compelling storytelling.
The Stolen Queen follows two women separated in age by forty years. As an anthropology student in 1936, Charlotte Cross is part of an archaeological dig in Egypt’s Valley of the Kings when she unearths a significant discovery in a maze of burial tunnels. Charlotte had been studying the reign of an ancient Egyptian named Hathorkare who was married to the pharaoh Saukemet I, and who, upon his death stole the throne from her stepson when she named herself pharaoh. Although this fifth pharaoh of the Eighteenth Dynasty of ancient Egypt ruled for twenty years Egyptologists dismissed and disdained Hathorkare’s accomplishments to culture and government as unimportant. Also, according to ancient Egyptian legend a curse is attached to anyone who disturb s or removes anything from Hathorkare’s royal entombed mummy. Even years later Charlotte wonders if there is truth to the curse. Due to an unforeseen tragedy she had been forced to cut short her stay in Egypt in 1936. Now, years later, she leads a quiet life as an associate curator and leading specialist of Egyptian art collections at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City and is working on preparation of the upcoming King Tut exhibit at the museum.
In New York City, 1978, Annie Jenkins is a nineteen-year-old woman who secures a job at the Met as an assistant to the demanding Diana Vreeland, former editor of Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, who is designing the event of the year, the famous Met Costume Gala.
When a long-lost Broad Collar belonging to Hathorkare emerges with mysterious provenance in the museum’s collection, the paths between Charlotte and Annie converge. Intrigue further develops, when, on the night of the famed gala a different precious
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BRUCE KODNER GALLERIES
artifact, the Cerulean Queen statue, goes missing. The two women, unlikely matched, set off to search for the missing art as they travel to Egypt, a place that Charlotte never expected to see again because of her past experiences there.
Fiona Davis excels at creating atmospherically rich settings, from the archaeological digs of 1930s Egypt to the bustling halls of the Met. Many of her descriptions of the museum’s holdings resonated with this fan of the Met. Especially interesting is Davis’ attention to historical details such as the Egyptian mummification process, burial customs, the depictions of pharaohs and the rights of women. Furthermore, the issues of the selling of antiquities on the black market and the deaccession and repatriation of art, i.e. sending everything back to its country of origin, are considered.
The characters are well-developed, particularly the journey of Charlotte from eager archeologist to respected specialist, and Annie’s growth as she navigates the challenges of the museum world. Their parallel stories, though separated by time, reflect complementary themes of female determination in historically maledominated fields.
The Stolen Queen stands as another worthy addition to Davis’s bibliography that will appeal to fans of historical fiction, art history enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys a well-crafted mystery spanning generations. I’m pleased to recommend this novel to you, Grandezza readers.
Travel Corner
MEI-MEI KIRK
PANDA-MONIUM! CLOSE ENCOUNTERS IN CHENGDU AND WOLONG
If you are going to China, and you’re as smitten as we are by adorable giant pandas, you must go to Chengdu in the western Sichuan province.
With its dense bamboo forests, this cool, wet, mountainous region is home to forty of China’s sixty-seven panda reserves. There are only about 2,000 giant pandas in the world—about 1,800 in the wild, and forty-five in zoos outside China (only four are in the U.S. as of June 2025, with two each in D.C. and San Diego). In and around Chengdu, you have a chance to see some 200 pandas at four major bases!
Today’s panda keepers do not get to be close to the bears or feed them; posing with pandas ended in 2019.
But you can still scrub panda pens, clean bamboo and make panda cakes as a volunteer or in the loving care programs at Dujiangyan, Wolong and Bifengxia Panda Bases (or be a red panda keeper!).
On our first visit to China in 2016, my adult daughter Regan and I made a point of going to Chengdu.
We had such fun being panda keepers at the Dujiangyan Panda Base, about ninety minutes from Chengdu. We cleaned panda pens (yep, including poop), and got to feed three-year-old Wu Wen panda cakes (made by panda keepers) and bamboo through the bars of her cage (we were not allowed to touch her or the cage.) Some visitors paid handsomely to sit next to pandas for quick pictures.
Over two days in May 2025, we went to the Chengdu and Wolong bases and enjoyed darling youngsters at both. (We decided not to repeat as panda keepers.)
In 2016, giant pandas were downgraded from “Endangered” to “Vulnerable.” But they are still at risk, from lost habitat, poachers and climate change. Breeding is a challenge as females can conceive only a few days each year.
The Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, just
thirty minutes from the city center, has the largest collection in the world with more than 100 giant pandas (plus red pandas). In any given year, 1020 itsy bitsy babies are born in late summer and displayed in the nursery through September.
The Wolong Shenshuping Panda Base is about two hours from Chengdu, located in the original habitat of giant pandas, within a huge panda reserve. Some visitors stay overnight at nearby Gengda town in order to hike Dengsheng Gorge, home to more than 100 wild pandas, golden monkeys and snow leopards—all extremely reclusive. (It is rare for even veteran panda researchers to ever spot the bears in the wild.)
We were giddy with delight watching some fifteen adorable fuzzy panda cubs trotting, climbing, falling, somersaulting, wrestling, perched in trees, hanging with mom, learning to eat bamboo, interacting with panda keepers, and loafing. Pandas have poor vision, so their sense of perspective, along with their growing bodies, result in entertaining antics.
The star in Chengdu is Hua Hua, an unusual midget panda; the star at Wolong is Fu Bao, the first giant panda born in South Korea. “Princess Fu,” a beloved media sensation, was transferred to Wolong in 2024, when she was four.
That was per China’s panda arrangements: bears are loaned out for about $1 million a year for ten years. Any babies born overseas are to be brought to China by the age of four.
Fu Bao had recently resumed her public appearances when we visited, and we were amazed by her throngs of fans.
After about three hours at each base, we reluctantly left when the bear activity waned and most pandas went in their indoor pens to cool down.
Soon after our return to the U.S., we were delighted to learn a cub had been born in Wolong on June 21!
KEY TIPS:
—During the summer, pandas are most active in the cool morning. Arrive as close to opening time as you can (while also beating the uninformed crowds), or come in the late afternoon.
—Chengdu Park is humongous and best with a guide. To catch the youngsters, take the shuttle to the far end where the sub-adult enclosures feature pandas one to five years old. (Opens at 7:30 a.m.; 8 a.m. from November-February.)
—Wolong is at 5,600 feet so prepare for a cold morning. It’s compact enough to do by yourself. (Opens at 9 a.m.)
Cook’s Corner TUNA TARTARE
JOHN DEJOY
1 pound, Sushi grade Tuna. Very important to get the freshest available
Half of a Red Onion, small diced
Half of a Jalapeno Pepper, small diced
1 bunch Cilantro, chopped
1 inch piece of Fresh Ginger, peeled and minced
2 Avocados, diced
Juice of one Lime
1 teaspoon Soy Sauce
1 tablespoon Sweet Chili Sauce
Dash of Siracha or your favorite Hot Sauce
Salt and Pepper To Taste
1) Place all wet ingredients in a mixing bowl.
2) Add the Onions, Jalapeno, Ginger and Cilantro to the bowl.
3) Remove the Tuna from the fridge and dice it medium. This doesn’t have to be perfect, just cold and fresh. Add to the bowl.
4) Dice the ripe Avocados and add to the bowl. Combine all ingredients.
5) Taste, adjust seasoning with Salt and Pepper. At this point you can decide how spicy you want your Tartare to be. More hot sauce? Do you want more Soy? Add a dash! This recipe can be altered to your liking.
6) At home we serve the Tartare in a bowl and enjoy with your favorite Tortilla Chip.
Note: Freshness of the Tuna is the key. Always look for a deep red, ruby color.
Note 2: If you don’t have fresh ginger, just omit. Dry Ginger is completely different, in my opinion.
Tuna was always on the Summer menu at John Palmer’s Bistro 44. We did many different preparations, but the Asian flavors were almost always involved. I liked to use the end of the Tuna Loins and make a Tartare dish for a “special.” For another variation we would sometimes add a tablespoon or two of mayonnaise. This gives the tuna creamy taste and feel. The batch should not be overly saucy.
Note 3: Tuna Tartare is meant to showcase the freshness of the tuna, so we make sure the flavor of the fish is the primary flavor.
Last Note: This dish has a short shelf life. It’s great for sitting around “noshing.” Enjoying many apps. Or as a starter to a meal.
Enjoy this with a beautiful sunset or with a Florida summer rainstorm.
Compliments of Chef John and Michelle De Joy, Owners of John Palmer’s Bistro 44, in Concord, Ohio, and currently Saraceno residents.
Grandezza GirlFriends
CINDY FITZPATRICK
The GirlFriends ventured out to The Club at Pelican Preserve for their July luncheon. A good time was had by all. Terri Brown was the lucky winner of the bracelet.
Our Talk Play Stay interest group keeps busy all summer long. The photo is from an outing to The Rookery at Shadow Wood where they enjoyed a delicious lobster dinner.
Calling All Pet Owners!
Tell us about your pet(s)! Every month we will feature one family’s pet(s) in an article in the Grandezza Gazzette . All you have to do is write between 300 and 600 words about your much loved dog, cat, or other animal and include a couple of high resolution pictures. Some ideas to show off your loved pet include: how you named him/her; a description of his/her looks; favorite activities and toys; what makes him/ her special to you, and whatever else you’d like to share with readers. This offer is limited to Grandezza owners and residents.
Your submission doesn’t have to be a literary masterpiece; we will edit and format it for the monthly newsletter. Have fun writing about your pet, and submit it to sjsherwin18@gmail. com for submission in the Grandezza Gazzette.
THE LATEST NEWS ON THE EXPANSION OF I-75 FROM 6 LANES TO 10 THROUGH ESTERO
The Engage Estero executive management team would like to thank the 146 residents who provided their details at the end of the article on this topic that was published in June. Ref: https://esterotoday.com/i-75 – add your voice!
The list has been sent with a covering note to Mayor Joanne Ribble, David Willems, Estero’s Public Works Director, and Nicole Harris, Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), Southwest ConnectTM Project Manager. Both Mayor Ribble and David Willems have expressed their concerns and empathy with the concerns of the public and have indicated that they will express the Village’s concern to FDOT.
In the meantime, Allan Bowditch, President of Engage Estero, has received a reply from Nicole Harris encouraging those who have concerns to attend the public meeting on August 14 (see details in Nicole’s response below.
“Thank you for compiling and forwarding the list of residents who have expressed concerns regarding potential noise impacts from the I-75 widening.
As part of the ongoing Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study for the I-75 South Corridor, from Golden Gate Parkway to Corkscrew Road, FDOT is conducting a comprehensive traffic noise analysis in accordance with federal and state guidelines. This includes evaluating existing conditions and predicting future noise levels under the proposed improvements to determine whether noise barriers are warranted, feasible, and reasonable. Public Works Director
Preliminary results of the noise study will be shared at the upcoming Public Hearing on August 14, 2025, Open House at 4:30 p.m.; Formal Presentation at 6:00 p.m., at North Collier Regional Park, and materials will be posted online in advance at: www.swflinterstates.com/i75-southcorridor/452544-1”
The Community and Member Meeting Covering “Developments in Estero and Title Fraud” on September 26
This “not to be missed” meeting will be held at the Estero Recreation Center on Friday, September 26 at 10 a.m. The location is 9285 Corkscrew Palms Blvd. (inside the Estero Community Park), Estero, FL 33928.
Mary Gibbs, the Estero Community Development Director, will discuss the difficulties that the Village’s PZDB has to face when balancing the demands of developers and, on occasion, their legal threats with those of the Village code and residents’ concerns. She will also address some of the larger developments that are underway or about to start, and what they will eventually look like.
Clerk Karnes, Lee County ’s Clerk of the Court & Comptroller, will discuss the issue of Title fraud. It is a scam that involves criminals stealing your home, then borrowing against it or selling it behind your back.
PLEASE PUT THE DATE IN YOUR CALENDAR
Revolutionizing Healthcare: Why the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) Will Significantly Improve Delivery and Patient Outcomes
If you haven’t yet seen this recently communicated article you might like to review the details on our website at www.esterotoday.com.
Medical and wearable devices, sensors, and other healthcare technologies integrated with cloud systems (referred to as the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT)) have the potential to revolutionize healthcare by improving both care delivery and patient outcomes.
The aging population in the USA is already increasing the demands on an already stretched physician workforce. Additionally, the projected decline in the number of physicians and nurses per capita over the next few years is expected to increase demand further. The introduction of IoMT and its components, such as medical and wearable devices, sensors, and other healthcare technologies integrated with cloud systems, will be crucial in helping to offset the potential decline in healthcare quality forecasted. The real potential lies in its ability to reshape healthcare, making it more proactive, precise, and accessible for all. But the question remains – will this be enough to offset the declining numbers of doctors and nurses?
September 26, 10 a.m. at The Estero Recreation Center
The meeting, which is open to the public, will take place at the Estero Recreation Center on Friday, September 26 at 10 a.m. The location is 9285 Corkscrew Palms Blvd. (inside the Estero Community Park), Estero, FL 33928.
The First topic will be:
A Summary of Some of the Key Developments Underway and Planned for Estero And The Difficulties That Often Face the Village’s PZD Board
Mary Gibbs is the Community Development Director for the Village. She has been the director since June 8, 2015, and previously was Director of Lee County Community Development for 23 years. Mary will discuss the difficulties that the Village’s PZDB has to face when balancing the demands of developers and, on occasion, their legal threats with those of the Village code and the residents’ concerns. She will also explain what some of the larger developments underway or about to start will look like. Engage Estero is pleased to be able to present Mary’s insights on these important issues.
The Second topic will be:
Don’t let Scammers Take Away your Home!
Kevin Karnes, Lee County’s Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller, will discuss the issue of Title Fraud.
It is a scam that involves criminals stealing your home, then borrowing against it or selling it behind your back. Your home and hard-earned equity can be snatched away with just a signature. So, what can you do to protect your most valuable asset? Find out!
Don’t Miss This Exciting and Informative Meeting!
The meeting is free and open to the public. Because seating is limited, registration is required. RSVP online at: https://esterotoday. com/sept2025 or use the QR code.
A video of the meeting will be available soon after on our YouTube channel if you are unable to attend. Subscribe at https:// www.youtube.com/@EngageEstero to be notified when it is posted.
At Engage Estero, we believe in the strength of the community. As a nonpartisan, nonpolitical nonprofit, we utilize evidence-based research to provide unbiased information about community issues, empowering you to improve your quality of life.
“Be Informed, Get Engaged, and Make an Impact”
DEVICE SECURITY WHEN TRAVELING
If you are planning to travel soon, you’ll likely be taking your cell phone or other portable device, like your tablet, or multiple electronic devices. Even with biometrics, such as fingerprints and facial recognition, and passcodes, passwords, and patterns to keep your information safe, you could still be vulnerable to data or identity theft
Bluetooth Security
Bluetooth is used to connect your mobile devices to wireless headsets, enable hands-free calling while you drive, and even listen to your favorite playlist in the car. A user must allow a Bluetooth connection before data is shared, (called “pairing”) which provides some degree of data security, but does put your personal data at risk. When using Bluetooth, there are a few steps you can take to safeguard your data:
• Turn off Bluetooth when you’re not using it. When you keep it active, hackers can discover other devices which have been connected before, then spoof those devices to gain access to your data.
• If you rent a car and pair your mobile device with it, be sure to unpair and clear all personal data when returning the car. Do the same if you are selling a car with Bluetooth.
• To prevent unknown devices from discovering your Bluetooth connection, use Bluetooth in “hidden: mode, not “discoverable” mode.
What Is Juice Jacking?
$ose charging stations you find at airports, restaurants and hotel lobbies may be convenient, but you could be opening yourself to cyber theft $is activity is known as “juice jacking.”
Public-use USB charging stations could possibly load malware onto your device while charging, giving thieves direct access to your personal data and passwords. $at data can then be sold online to other devious criminals or used to access your online accounts.
Public-use USB charging stations could possibly load malware onto your device while charging, giving thieves direct access to your personal data and passwords. $at data can then be sold online to other devious criminals or used to access your online accounts.
How can you guard your devices against juice jacking?
• Use AC power outlets when charging; bring your own charging brick and cords and charge your items using a standard wall outlet.
• Use an external battery. Using an external, rechargeable battery allows you to charge on the go.
• Use a charge-only cable. $ese cables prevent data from sending or receiving while charging. Make sure you buy from a trusted provider.
• Use caution. When charging your device in a publicuse charging station, if you see a prompt asking if you want to “share data” or “trust this computer” or “charge only,” make sure to select “charge only.”
Public Wi-Fi
If you choose to use public Wi-Fi networks to access the internet when you travel, do so with caution. Hackers can access the connection and gain introduction to data on your device and in your online accounts. You can use the following tips to mitigate the risk:
• Verify the available Wi-Fi hotspots. Check with establishment staff to ensure you are using the correct hotspot, not a fraudster trying to steal your data.
• Look for “https” when sharing data over any network. Websites beginning with “https” encrypt your data when it’s transmitted.
• Install a (reputable) app on your device to force web browsers to utilize encryption when connecting to websites.
• Ensure your device does not automatically connect to nearby Wi-Fi networks when in range.
• Use a VPN (virtual private network) if you frequently use public hotspots. VPN encrypts all transmissions between the internet and your device.
• Use your data plan rather than a hotspot when communicating sensitive information over the internet.
WATCH OR WARNING?
Knowing the difference between a watch and a warning can help keep you safe. Whether a watch or warning, listen closely to instructions from local officials using a TV, radio, cell phone or other communication device.
Tropical Storm Watch: An announcement that tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 of 73 mph) are possible within the specified area within 48 hours.
Tropical Storm Warning: An announcement that tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are expected within the specified area within 36 hours.
Hurricane Watch: An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are possible somewhere within the specified area. Because hurricane preparedness activities become difficult once winds reach tropical storm force, the hurricane watch is issued 48 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical storm force winds.
Hurricane Warning: An announcement that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are expected somewhere within the specified area. Because hurricane preparedness activities become difficult once winds reach tropical storm force, the hurricane warning is issued 36 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical storm force winds.
Tornado Watch: Tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. Be ready to act quickly if a warning is issued.
Tornado Warning: A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Proceed to a safe room immediately.
Flood Watch: A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for $ooding. It does not mean $ooding will occur, but it is possible.
Flood Warning: A Flood Warning is issued when $ooding is imminent or occurring.
Flash Flood Warning: A Flash Flood Warning is issued when a $ash $ood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a $ood prone area, move immediately to high ground. A $ash $ood is a sudden, violent $ood that can take minutes or hours to develop.
Carpe Diem With These Everyday Latin
LISA GALEK, WORD SMARTS
We could go on ad infinitum (forever) about the influence of Latin on the English-speaking world, but instead, let’s learn the roots of the most common Latin phrases we use today.
Although Latin is considered a “dead language” (meaning it isn’t spoken widely as a primary language), many tongues around the world have been heavily influenced by it. Early Europeans traded with Latin speakers in the Roman Empire, and later, Catholic monks wrote religious texts and conducted services in Latin. Though relatively few English speakers know Latin today, many of our words have roots in this ancient language. We could go on ad infinitum (forever) about the influence of Latin on the English-speaking world, but instead, let’s examine the roots of the most common Latin phrases we use today.
Ad Hoc
“Ad hoc” literally translates as “to this,” but the phrase essentially describes things created as needed, or when necessary. “Ad hoc” can be used as either an adjective (“We formed an ad hoc committee to plan the gala”) or an adverb (“Let’s buy the supplies ad hoc”).
Bona Fide
The literal Latin translation of this phrase is “with good faith,” but in modern colloquialisms, “bona fide” is another way of saying “genuine” or “sincere.” When used in legal or business contexts, it means there was no intent to defraud or deceive. (“He was a bona fide expert in personal finance.”)
Carpe Diem
Read today as “seize the day,” this phrase comes from the Roman poet Horace and is more accurately translated as “pluck the day.” It encourages us to enjoy the current moment without worrying about the future. (“She was determined to carpe diem on her vacation.”)
Caveat Emptor
“Let the buyer beware” puts the onus (another Latin word meaning “burden”) on the person buying an item to know and understand the risk inherent in their purchase. (“Caveat emptor is a good approach when selecting a used car.”)
Deus Ex Machina
“God from the machine” sounds like a scifi plot, but this phrase comes from ancient Greek theater traditions. At the end of some Greek plays, a machine would raise or lower an actor playing a god onto the stage, and they would then resolve the conflict of the narrative. Today, “deus ex machina” (still mostly used as a literary device) refers to anyone or anything who suddenly and unexpectedly provides a solution.
In Flagrante Delicto
Literally “in blazing crime,” the idiom “in flagrante delicto” loosely means “caught in the act.” This often refers to a crime, but it can also be a euphemism for sexual activity. (“When we opened the door, we saw them in flagrante delicto.”) It’s sometimes shortened to just “in flagrante.”
Phrases
CREDIT: ZAPOMICRON/ SHUTTERSTOCK
In Media Res
“In media res,” meaning “in the midst of things,” is a literary device that describes a story that begins in the middle of the action or plot. (“My favorite novelists tend to start a story in media res.”)
In Memoriam
As a preposition, this means “in memory of,” and as a noun, it’s a synonym (often used as a modifier) for an obituary. These are works created in memory of someone who has died. (“The actor’s photo was shown on the in memoriam photo reel.”)
Magnum Opus
Directly translated as “great work,” this is an artist’s most significant work or achievement. (“Many believe the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel is Michelangelo’s magnum opus.”)
Mea Culpa
“Mea culpa,” or “by my fault” is a phrase that comes from the Roman Catholic mass, where it is said during a confessional prayer. It’s a way of acknowledging personal fault or error. (“She offered a mea culpa for forgetting my birthday.”)
Non Sequitur
“It does not follow” – a non sequitur is a statement that does not clearly or logically follow the one before it. (“They were talking about the weather when he brought up a non sequitur about his new car.”)
Persona Non Grata
“Persona non grata” refers to an unwelcome person. As the translation suggests, you don’t want to become a persona non grata. (“The accused man was persona non grata among his former friends.”)
Quid Pro Quo
“Something for something,” or “quid pro quo,” is when something is given in return for something else. It can be a fair exchange of goods and services, but the phrase also has a particular meaning in legal contexts. If a deal is considered one-sided, courts can decide a quid pro quo did not exist. (“The job negotiation was on a quid pro quo basis.”)
Veni, Vidi, Vici
“I came, I saw, I won.” This phrase is popularly attributed to Julius Caesar when he achieved a quick military victory in modern-day Turkey and sent this message back to the Roman Senate. (“After she won the chess tournament, the champion shouted, ‘Veni, vidi, vici.’”)
https://wordsmarts.com/latin-phrases/?lctg=08c63059d4d4-4373-a080-da2da7561bd8
Reporting Medicare Fraud And Abuse
Medicare fraud and abuse can happen anywhere. It’s important that you protect your Medicare card, number, and other personal information, and check your Medicare claims regularly.
TO HELP SPOT AND PREVENT MEDICARE FRAUD AND ABUSE:
• Compare the dates and services on your calendar with the Medicare statements you get to make sure you got each service listed and that all the details are correct.
• Protect your personal information and become familiar with how Medicare uses it.
• Know what a Medicare health or drug plan can and can’t do before you join. If you join a Medicare health or drug plan, the plan will let you know how it will use your personal information.
• Learn more about Medicare and recent scams.
If you suspect fraud call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or Report Medicare Fraud online.
If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan or Medicare drug plan you can also call the Investigations Medicare Drug Integrity Contractor (I-MEDIC) at 1-877-7SAFERX (1-877-772-3379). What information should I have ready when I call?
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM MEDICAL IDENTITY THEFT
Medical identity theft is a serious crime that happens when someone uses your personal information without your consent to commit Medicare fraud or other crimes. Use the following tips to protect yourself from becoming a victim.
DO:
• Check the receipts and statements you get from providers for mistakes, and call your provider’s office if you think a charge is incorrect.
• Remember that Medicare will never call you to sell you anything or visit you at your home. Medicare, or someone representing Medicare, will only call and ask for personal information in limited situations (like an agent or representative returning your call after you’ve joined a plan, reported fraud, or left a message for Medicare).
DON ’ T:
○ Give your Medicare card, Medicare Number, Social Security card, or Social Security Number to anyone except your doctor or people you know should have it (like insurers acting on your behalf or people who work with Medicare, like your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). Get the contact information for your local SHIP.
○ What do I do if my card is lost, stolen, or damaged?
• Accept offers of money or gifts for free medical care.
• Allow anyone, except your doctor or other Medicare providers, to review your medical records or recommend services.
• Join a Medicare health or drug plan over the phone, unless you called and asked for help.
https://www.medicare.gov/basics/ reporting-medicare-fraud-andabuse?utm_campaign=20250716_avf_ frd_gal&utm_content=english&utm_ medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
Grandezza Visitor Access Control
(dwellingLIVE)
Grandezza is a limited access community and access is powered by dwellingLIVE. Guest Passes for entrance are valid only at the Main Gate.
A dwellingLIVE tutorial can be found on the home page of grandezzamaster.com. The tutorial provides instructions to access dwellingLIVE and manage your visitor information on your computer or smart phone.
dwellingLIVE provides many useful features, including:
• Managing your visitor information from your computer or smartphone
• Sending an e-pass directly to your visitor.
• Visitors can scan the e-pass barcode at the main gate right hand resident lane to gain entry and not wait in line for the gate attendant to print a pass
• Receiving a Text or Email when your visitors arrive, if you enable that feature
• Providing a faster, easier to use facility for Residents, Visitors, Trade, and Security
We encourage you to use the dwellingLIVE app, or by accessing your account on your computer, but if you are unable to do so, you can use the Voice Message system:
Instructions to use the Access Control Voice Message system:
Call 239-986-8627 or 888994-4117 and if asked to do so, enter your PIN number. You will be prompted to confirm your home address and announce the following information for your visitor:
• Name: (Say the name of your visitor – example “Perfect AC Systems”)
• Date: (Say the date –example, “September 21”)
• Time: (You do not need to state the time)
• Number of days: (say the number of days – example “one day”, or “2 days, etc”
• Press pound when you are finished: (press # on your phone and wait for the call to be automatically disconnected before hanging up).
The dwellingLIVE voice system should recognize your phone number and will place the voice recording in your online account file. When your visitor arrives, the gate attendant will access your online account and will listen to your voice message and will issue a pass to your visitor.
You should add all of your phone numbers to your dwellingLIVE account. By doing this the system will recognize any of your phone numbers when you call to schedule visitor access.
We ask for your cooperation to either use the dwellingLIVE app on your smart phone or by accessing your account on your computer, or by using the voice system feature.
Please do not call the gate attendant to request visitor access as it is no longer necessary and will free up the attendant to more efficiently grant visitors access to Grandezza. For assistance or if you experience problems, send a note to Cheryl McFarland at cmcfarland@ vestapropertyservices.com.
Grandezza Classified Ads
To place a classified ad Grandezza residents may e-mail sjsherwin18@gmail.com. An ad will run for THREE (3) MONTHS beginning with the first submission. Please inform us when the item has been sold or if you wish to have it deleted from the column. Also, you must notify us to continue an ad for an additional cycle after the initial 3-month period has expired or it automatically will be deleted. (Ending cycle of the ad running is noted at the end in parentheses.)
ITEMS FOR SALE
MOTORIZED SCOOTER, almost like new, used on a couple cruises and a vacation. Comfortable seat, storage basket, controls for forward and backward, removable Lithium battery, and foldable for easy transport. Weighs 37 lbs. with battery. Meets all standards for air travel. Original cost – $2,100 (Mobility Store). Selling it for $1,300. Call Peggy at 614-571-3546. (Expires 9/25)
Beach Sun Shelter with shade wall, 10’ X 10’ by Coleman. Stay on the beach all day in comfort. Original cost $170, will sell for $50. Call Tom 239-287-7808. (Expires 10/25)
Bose Smart Soundbar 600, brand new, never opened in its original box, for sale $319. Please contact Aramis at 239-860-2071 (Expires 10/25)
Books Needed (Especially Large Print, fiction, best sellers) for residents at local Medicaid Rehab Facility where I volunteer. If you can help by donating any please contact Jay Topper: jay@topper.net or 703-269-7161. (Expires 10/25)
GOLF CART
– 2020 E-Z-GO Freedom RXV Golf Cart. Outfitted for Golf, Including: Windshield, Premium Seats, LED Headlights & Taillights, Turn Signal, Side Mirrors, Overhead Fan, USB Outlet, Elite Rain Cover, Ice Bucket, Sand Bucket & Sand Bottle. New Batteries installed in November 2023. Excellent Condition. Asking $4,500. Call or Text Peter at 248-421-6891. (Expires 11/25)
Gatehouse (239) 498-8895
Gatehouse (DwellingLIVE Automated # to register guests) (239) 986-8627
Address 11450 Grande Oak
Clubhouse (239) 948-3569
Grandezza Express -
Take Out Food (239) 738-7113
Golf Pro Shop (239) 948-2900
Tennis Pro Shop (239) 738-7111
Wellness Director (941) 999-1331
Golf Maintenance (239) 947-6296
Vesta Property Services
cmcfarland@ vestapropertyservices.com (239) 947-4552 x 932
Gazzette Editor for HOA
Susan Sherwin sjsherwin18@gmail.com (973) 615-4222
RESOURCE HUB
GRANDEZZA MASTER WEBSITE
WWW.GRANDEZZAMASTER.COM
NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH COORDINATORS
Grandezza is a safer community because of Neighborhood Watch. Avalon Peggy Dempsey 610-662-2082
Cypress Cove A (Buttermere) Mike Patricelli 239-464-0780
Cypress Cove B Kevin O’Neil 239-265-5982
Grande Estates Joy Schachner 239-676-9668
Oakwood I (bldg 1-8 & 23-29) Al Meyer 239-313-0580
Oakwood II (bldg 9-22) Lillian Bennett 239-992-5583
Sabal Palm Mary Kaufmann 216-406-5347
Santa Lucia Celia Platt 239-498-8158
Saraceno Neil Greene 239-498-7104 Savona Sharmin McKenny 239-989-2334
Solemar Bob Lindgren 651-895-6210
Ville Grande Steve Bajinski 678-575-2397
REMEMBER-
• Call 911 for a crime-in-progress (emergency) or
• Call the police at 239-477-1000 to report suspicious activity/behavior (non-emergency)
• Call the Grandezza Gate at 239-498-8895 to inform them that the police may be coming and why.
• Notify your Neighborhood Watch Coordinator
IMPORTANT NUMBERS
Poison Control (800) 222-1222
Alligator Hotline (866) 392-4286
Animal Control (239) 432-2083
Mosquito Control (239) 694-2174
Florida Power & Light (239) 334-7754
Sunshine Before You Dig (800) 432-4770
Waste Services of Florida (239) 332-8500
Free Residential Appliance Pickup (239) 337-0800
GRANDEZZA
COMMUNITY BOARDS AND OFFICERS
ASSOCIATION POSITION
GRANDEZZA
MASTER BOARD
Fred Thompson P
Peter Dersley VP
Mickey Wheeler T
Sarah Hartman S
Aramis Sullivan D
Mike Patricelli D
Susan Sherwin D
AVALON
Jim Schleifer P
Joe Convertino, Jr. VP
Pat Van Duyn T
Dan Marrazza D
Ron Gramazio D
Wolfgang Greil D
CYPRESS COVE A
Andy Anderson P
Mike Patricelli VP
Myrna Wernick S
Paul Lesser T
David Lipschultz D
CYPRESS COVE B
Toni MacLeod P
Chuck Dennis VP
Kevin O’Neil T
Frank Senese S
Yvonne Mazzella D
GRANDEZZA MASTER COMMITTEES
Finance & Long Range Planning
Mickey Wheeler .................................................
Communications
Susan Sherwin ....................................................
Landscape
Aramis Sullivan ...................................................
Infrastructure, Lakes, Preserves & Fountains
Peter Dersley.......................................................
Safety & Access Control
Mike Patricelli .....................................................
Community Affairs
Fred Thompson ...................................................
GRANDE ESTATES
Peter Dersley P
Cameron Snyder VP
Fred Thompson T
Laura Reddin S
Lanell Shields D
OAKWOOD
Sandra Renner P
Ted Lewman VP
Patricia Collie S Al Meyer D
Steve Anderson T
SABAL PALM
Shannon Palombo P
Ellen Kaplan VP
William Greenwald T
Julie Sexton S
Mark Sherwin D
SANTA LUCIA
Aramis Sullivan P
Mike Mainelli S/T
Celia Platt VP
SARACENO
SAVONA
Wilkins
Nancy Banyard D Ann Cary D
SOLEMAR
Bob Lindgren P
Brian Vance VP/S Dan Williams T
VILLA GRANDE
Joseph Drummond P
Mickey Wheeler VP Beth Feldman T
Jeff Almo S
Steve Bajinski D
John Polczynski D