Gazzette
DECEMBER
A Look Inside
Master POA Report
SARAH HARTMAN
What a difference a couple of weeks make! As I write this and Daylight Savings Time has ended, the weather is absolutely beautiful and a great reminder of why we live in Florida. For those of us here year-round – the sunny skies and cooler temperatures are particularly welcome.
Speaking of welcomes – it’s great to see the increase in those walking and riding bikes on the streets, working out in the gym, attending fitness classes, swimming in the pools, playing golf on
our lovely golf course and tennis on the tennis courts. Please remember to drive carefully when out and about in the community whether in your car or in a golf cart. Not only do we have increased pedestrian activity on the streets – there is an increase in work vehicles as well. Be sure to stop first before crossing to/from the driving range area which has gotten particularly busy with everyone back.
During our October 2025 Grandezza Master Association Board Meeting, Jeanne Basso was appointed chair of the Neighborhood Watch Coordinators. She will be working with each of the community neighborhood watch individuals to re-energize the group. Mickey Wheeler, the Board’s Treasurer, provided a Treasurer’s Report and while things can change, he currently estimates we will finish the year $20K-$30K under budget. A pedestrian gate was installed at the Grande Oak Way vehicle exit gate, and once the multi-use pedestrian path has been completed, we will publish the code for exiting and entering the gate. We hope you enjoy this access to the new path on Corkscrew Road.
OUTGOING MPOA PRESIDENT FRED THOMPSON
By the time you read this, we will have said goodbye and a big thank you to Fred Thompson for the many years he served on the Grandezza Master POA Board. Most recently, he served as the President of the Board. Prior to that, he served as Treasurer. Fred also served on the Grande Estates HOA Board as Treasurer. Thank you for the countless hours spent over the years and for the leadership,
guidance and direction you provided. We wish you all the best as you move on to your next life chapter in Naples.
On November 6, the Grandezza Master Association Board hosted the 5th annual volunteer appreciation reception for all the elected directors (and spouse/ guest) who serve on the various boards throughout our community. We are fortunate that so many individuals are willing to volunteer their time and knowledge and it’s nice to be able to give them all a small thank you in return.
At the end of November, we held our Grandezza Master Association’s Annual
Members Meeting and the annual Organizational Meeting of the Master POA Board of Directors.
Following are the board members and committee assignments for the next year:
• Sarah Hartman – President
• Peter Dersley – Vice President & Infrastructure Committee Chair
• Mickey Wheeler – Treasurer & Finance Committee Chair
• Barry Blank – Secretary
• Susan Sherwin – Director & Communications Committee Chair
• Mike Patricelli – Director & Access Control / Safety Chair
• Aramis Sullivan – Director & Landscape Committee Chair
We hope everyone had an enjoyable Thanksgiving and is moving along with various holiday
shopping and plans. Safe travels to those who will be driving or flying somewhere during the busy December travel month.
PICTURED AT THE APPRECIATION RECEPTION: CHERYL MCFARLAND, PROPERTY MANAGER; PETER DERSLEY; SUSAN SHERWIN; SARAH HARTMAN; FRED THOMPSON; AND MICKEY WHEELER. (NOT PICTURED: MIKE PATRICELLI, ARAMIS SULLIVAN, BARRY BLANK)
EDITOR’S THOUGHT OF THE DAY
December in Florida: A Blend of Sunshine & Festivity
SUSAN SHERWIN
Florida offers a unique setting for December celebrations, blending traditional holiday customs with the warmth and sunshine of a subtropical climate. While many parts of the world associate December with snow and chilly weather, our moderate temperatures and sunny skies create a festive atmosphere that allows for outdoor activities and events not always possible elsewhere. This distinct environment shapes how Floridians celebrate holidays like Christmas, Hanukkah, and other seasonal festivities.
A special aspect of December celebrations in Southwest Florida is the way holiday lights are displayed. Grandezza’s neighborhoods and entrances are adorned with bright, colorful Christmas lights. Floridians decorate palm trees with twinkling lights, and towns such as Fort Myers and Naples feature dazzling displays of lights and decorations, even if the trees are surrounded by sand rather than snow. Many towns and cities host outdoor holiday festivals and markets. With December temperatures typically ranging from the 60s to the 80s (°F), outdoor celebrations are widespread. Sometimes a tropical twist is added to these traditions—Christmas trees might be decorated with seashells or starfish ornaments, or even replaced entirely with decorated palm trees. We
don’t have the same customs I grew up with in the Northeast, such as outdoor ice skating and the massive Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center in New York City, elaborate decorated department store windows along Fifth Avenue, or the traditional holiday show featuring the Rockettes’ high kicks in perfect unison. However, December here is distinctive in its own right.
Many festive activities revolve around generosity and connection. Choral groups delight us by caroling and spreading holiday joy. (Note that our Grandezza Singers will perform on December 10 and 11!) Exchanging gifts and spending time with family and friends is customary, and part of the true spirit of Christmas is performing acts of kindness and charity, especially toward those in need. The combination of warm weather and festive Christmas celebrations gives December in Florida a special charm.
Hanukkah is also widely celebrated throughout Florida. Menorah lightings are held in parks and community centers, and both public and small group gatherings often include music, food, and games.
Known as the Festival of Lights, Hanukkah is observed for eight nights as candles are lit progressively, adding more light each
evening. Gathering with friends and family, eating potato pancakes (latkes) and jelly doughnuts (sufganiyot), and playing dreidel are typical Hanukkah customs. The illumination of candles makes it a time to reflect on the positive aspects of life.
December in Florida welcomes an influx of visitors, as many snowbirds arrive to escape the winter chill. This makes Florida’s holiday season not only a time for local celebrations but also a bustling period for tourism. Theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and
Busch Gardens embrace the holiday spirit, transforming into magical winter wonderlands with elaborate decorations, special parades, and themed events.
December celebrations in Florida blend the warmth of the season with the warmth of the sun.
Floridians find creative ways to enjoy the festive spirit in beautiful settings like Grandezza. It’s a time when traditional holiday elements mix seamlessly with Florida’s tropical charm, offering a joyful way to celebrate the season. Whatever your special traditions, may you be uplifted with joy, kindness, and the power of light this holiday season!
Understanding the Club, the MPOA, and Your HOA/COA: Who Does What in Grandezza?
Grandezza is a distinctive and carefully managed community, but with multiple organizations operating behind the scenes, it’s understandable that residents sometimes wonder which entity handles what. The following will clarify the roles of the Grandezza Club, the Master Property Owners’ Association (MPOA), and the 11 neighborhood Homeowner and Condominium Owner Association (HOA/COA) neighborhoods that make up Grandezza.
THE GRANDEZZA CLUB (OWNED
BY HERITAGE GOLF GROUP)
The Club includes the golf course, clubhouse, dining, fitness center, pool, racquet and bocci sports. It is privately owned and operated by Heritage Golf Group, independent from the MPOA.
Residents pay annual Club dues and are billed monthly for dining and other Club purchases. All questions related to membership, amenities, and Club billing should be directed directly to Club management.
THE MASTER PROPERTY OWNER’S ASSOCIATION (MPOA)
The MPOA is the master association responsible for all 978 residences in Grandezza. Funded by your quarterly MPOA assessment, it oversees:
• Main entrance and resident-only gate access
• Certain common area landscaping
• Community lakes and aerators
• Preserves, and stormwater systems
• Certain roadways and streetlights
• Bulk Cable, Internet and TV services
• Announcements and Communications to all residents, including the Grandezza Gazzette
• Overall community governance and standards
The MPOA does not manage the Club or its amenities.
YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD HOMEOWNERS AND CONDOMINIUM OWNERS ASSOCIATION (HOA/COA)
Grandezza includes 11 separate HOA/COA neighborhoods, each with its own board and budget. These associations handle:
• Neighborhood landscaping
• Internal roads, streetlights, and monuments
• Lake fountains (if installed)
• Small neighborhood common areas
Your HOA/COA also collects your quarterly MPOA assessment and forwards it to the MPOA.
ROUTING QUESTIONS EFFICIENTLY
To help avoid delays, here’s a quick guide:
• Club questions: dining, golf, membership, Club charges. Call the reception desk at 239-948-3569
• MPOA questions: gate access, community common area maintenance, cable/TV service, lakes, preserves, Grandezza Gazzette. Send an email to Cheryl McFarland at cmcfarland@ vestapropertyservices.com
• HOA/COA questions: landscaping, neighborhood roads, streetlights, HOA/COA fees. Send an email to Cheryl McFarland at cmcfarland@vestapropertyservices.com
ONE COMMUNITY, THREE PARTNERS
While the Club, the MPOA, and the HOA/COAs operate independently, each plays an essential role in making Grandezza the community we proudly call home.
Remote Viewing of Grandezza Comcast TV Service
Grandezza residents can enjoy their Comcast/Xfinity TV service even when away from home. Below are the most common options for streaming remotely.
OPTIONS FOR REMOTE VIEWING
1. Option 1 – Xfinity Stream App on a Smart TV
○ Download the Xfinity Stream app directly to your Smart TV, Login to your Grandezza Comcast account, select Live TV to view the Channel Menu.
○ Your Smart TV must be connected to the internet, but streaming may not be available on older TV’s. (Xfinity Stream App Requirements)
○ This is the simplest solution as minimal setup is required, and an additional remote will not be needed.
2. Option 2 – Xfinity Stream App on a Laptop, Smartphone, and Tablet (Mac & PC Laptop, iPhone, iPad, Android Phone & Android Tablet)
○ Download the Xfinity Stream app directly to your Device, Login to your Grandezza Comcast account, select Live TV to view the channel menu.
3. Option 3 – Amazon Fire Stick
Install the app on an Amazon Fire Stick and connect it to your TV.
Fire Stick Setup Instructions
4. Other Devices
Other streaming sticks (such as Roku or Apple TV) may also work with the Xfinity Stream app. (Xfinity Stream App Requirements)
IMPORTANT LIMITATIONS
1. Channel Availability
○ Remote viewing is limited to TV Go Channels.
○ Local and network channels may not always be available.
○ Florida news stations can typically be accessed.
○ Favorite programs can be recorded at home and streamed later without restriction.
2. Local Channels “Up North”
○ Local channels outside Florida are not available via the Xfinity Stream app.
○ These can still be viewed by installing a Digital Antenna and switching your TV input to antenna mode.
3. Extra Remotes
○ Using a Fire Stick adds one additional remote.
○ A full home theater setup with a receiver may add further complexity and another remote, though it remains manageable.
KEY BENEFITS
1. Significant Savings
○ Avoid paying for duplicate TV services.
○ One Grandezza resident reported: “I save more than $120 a month compared to what I would pay Spectrum for the same channels.”
2. Travel Flexibility
○ The Xfinity Stream app can be used on smartphones, tablets, or laptops while abroad.
○ Streaming internationally requires a VPN set to the USA.
○ As one resident shared: “Last Saturday, I watched the Ohio State vs. Washington game while overseas. Without the VPN set to the U.S., it would not have worked.”
Reader’s Corner
FAINA MENZUL
The Heiress by Rachel Hawkins is an intense, intriguing novel that you don’t want to miss. Ruby McTavish, the central character of The Heiress has been dead for ten years. She was not only the richest woman in North Carolina, but also the most notorious one. Kidnapped when she was three years old, Ruby was miraculously returned to her parents several months later. A sole heir to her father’s business empire, Ruby managed her great fortune from Ashby House, the family’s immense mansion in the woods near Tavistock, a small town in the Blue Ridge mountains region. Ruby was married four times; all her husbands met untimely deaths by accidents, or misfortunes.
After the death of her fourth husband Ruby adopted an orphan boy named Camden and designated him her sole heir to the great indignation of her younger sister Nell. Nell and her family always considered themselves the “true McTavishes.” Even though after Ruby’s death the Ashby house legally belongs to Cam, the elderly Nell and her adult grandchildren Ben and Libby insist on residing there.
Cam left Ashby after Ruby’s death, planning to never return to the house in which members of the McTavish clan always strived to make him feel an interloper who stole their rightful inheritance.
During his first year at the university in California, Cam met and fell in love with Jules, a girl from a poor family who supported herself by working at the university pub. Now married for ten years, they reside in a small town in Colorado where Cam teaches English and Jules works at a historical
house nearby. They live in a small, rented house even though Cam could afford a larger, more comfortable house with just a small fraction of his inheritance. An unexpected message from Cousin Ben about many repairs needed in the Ashby house compels Cam to return to North Carolina for a few weeks. Ten years of Cam’s absence from Ashby, though, have not mellowed Nell or her grandchildren who still endeavor to make Cam’s every moment as uncomfortable as ever.
As the story unfolds, we realize that each character has his or her own hidden agenda. Cam wants nothing more than to fix the Ashby house and go back to his comfortable teaching life in Colorado. While Jules seems to support Cam’s wish to leave Ashby behind, she secretly dreams about becoming the mistress of a magnificent mansion, freely roaming its stately rooms, and not having to worry about money or pesky relatives. However, Cam’s cousin Ben is secretly planning a nasty “surprise” intended to displace Cam as an heir.
The narrative alternates between Cam, Jules, and Ruby. In spite of Ruby’s being dead for ten years, her voice comes out loud and clear through hidden letters that were written just before she was found dead in her bed. We assume that the letters were addressed to Cam. Or were they?
In her letters Ruby pledges to tell truth about her life and her four unfortunate husbands: a violent heir to a tobacco fortune; a “happy go lucky” drug addict; a “loving” husband who watched her every move; and her last husband, a British portrait painter who “knew too much.”
As Ruby described real circumstances and reasons for each of her husbands’ untimely demise, the author “inserted”
old newspaper clippings, books, and stories from the past to further define the characters and tell their real stories.
The rapidly unfolding plot of this fast moving, enthralling novel reveals surprising twists and turns in every chapter, finally arriving at a completely unexpected finale. The Heiress is a smart story with dark humor that transports the reader inside the tragic lives of a rich and privileged family who live by their own rules, secure in the knowledge that their wealth always will protect them. This reader couldn’t put it down.
Golf Corner
CORY TITENSOR, PGA, DIRECTOR OF GOLF, THE CLUB AT GRANDÉZZA
The way technology is changing the game. Advancements in material technology coupled with research and development have significantly improved golf club performance, enabling golfers to achieve better results on the course. Here’s a breakdown of how these innovations have transformed golf club design and performance:
LIGHTWEIGHT MATERIALS
CARBON FIBER
• Strength and Durability : Carbon fiber is stronger than steel but much lighter, allowing manufacturers to create clubs that maintain structural integrity while reducing overall weight.
• Improved Swing Speed: Lighter clubs enable golfers to generate faster swing speeds, leading to increased distance without sacrificing control.
TITANIUM
• High Strength-to-Weight Ratio: Titanium’s lightweight nature and strength allow for larger clubheads that can provide a greater sweet spot, improving forgiveness on offcenter hits.
• Creative Design: The ability to shape titanium allows for innovative designs, such as larger drivers that can optimize aerodynamics and improve launch conditions.
ENHANCED FORGIVENESS
MULTI-MATERIAL CONSTRUCTION
• Weight Distribution: Modern clubs often use a combination of materials (e.g., titanium, carbon fiber, and aluminum) to strategically position weight, enhancing forgiveness and stability during impact.
• Low Center of Gravity (CG): By distributing weight low in the clubhead, manufacturers can create clubs that promote higher launch angles and lower spin rates, leading to longer, straighter shots.
IMPROVED FACE TECHNOLOGY
• Variable Face Thickness: Clubs with faces engineered with varying thicknesses can provide more consistent ball speeds across the face, enhancing performance on mishits.
• Impact Resistance : Advanced materials increase the durability of club faces, ensuring they maintain performance over time despite regular use.
VIBRATION DAMPENING
COMPOSITE MATERIALS
• Dampening Properties: Many modern clubs utilize composite materials that absorb vibrations upon impact, resulting in a softer feel and reducing hand fatigue during play.
• Enhanced Feedback: This dampening effect allows players to receive better feedback on their shots, helping them make necessary adjustments in their swing.
AERODYNAMIC DESIGN
STREAMLINED SHAPES
• Reduced Drag: Advances in materials and manufacturing innovations allow for more aerodynamic clubhead designs, minimizing drag during the swing. This results in increased clubhead speed and distance.
• Adjustable Features: Many clubs now incorporate adjustable weights and hosels, made possible by new materials, allowing players to customize their club’s performance to their specific swing styles.
CUSTOMIZATION AND PERSONALIZATION
3-D PRINTING AND ADVANCED MANUFACTURING
• Tailored Fit: Advancements in material technology and manufacturing techniques like 3-D printing enable custom club designs that cater to individual player preferences and swing characteristics.
• Experimentation with Design: Manufacturers can quickly prototype and test new designs, leading to continual improvements in club performance based on player feedback.
Material technology along with mechanical engineering have revolutionized golf club performance, making clubs lighter, more forgiving, and more responsive. These advancements allow golfers to achieve better results, whether they are beginners or seasoned professionals. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovations that will further enhance the performance of golf clubs, hopefully, making the game more enjoyable for everyone.
Tennis Corner
DAVID DEKEERSMAKER, DIRECTOR OF TENNIS, THE CLUB AT GRANDÉZZA
UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCES – MEN ’ S, WOMEN ’ S, AND MIXED DOUBLES
As we move into the cooler months and the fall season of doubles play, it’s the perfect time to explore what truly makes men’s, women’s, and mixed doubles unique. While the scoring is the same, the style, strategy, and chemistry on court can be very different. Recognizing these distinctions not only helps players perform better but also deepens appreciation for the game’s variety.
MEN ’ S DOUBLES
Men’s doubles is often defined by pace, power, and aggression.
• Heavy serving and quick reflexes: Points tend to start and finish fast, with both players looking to take control of the net early.
• Frequent poaching: Movement and anticipation are key—men often cross at the net to apply pressure and finish points quickly.
• Baseline consistency takes a back seat: Instead of long rallies, the emphasis is on first-strike tennis—serve, return, and volley.
WOMEN ’ S DOUBLES
Women’s doubles, by contrast, features precision, placement, and extended rallies.
• More developed point construction: Women typically build points with consistency, patience, and well-timed transitions.
• Angle and placement over power: Smart positioning and shot selection outweigh sheer pace.
• Strong teamwork and communication: Doubles formations and tactics are deliberate, with both players reading and supporting one another through longer exchanges.
MIXED DOUBLES: WHERE STYLES MEET When the two styles come together, the dynamics shift. The key to success in mixed doubles isn’t just skill—it’s adaptability and understanding each other’s strengths.
HOW MEN ADJUST IN MIXED DOUBLES
• Protect and support: Men often cover a bit more court and use their pace to set up their partner rather than dominate the rally.
• Soften the game: Not every shot needs to be struck at full pace—well-placed volleys and smart angles create more opportunities.
• Use variety: Lobs, drop shots, and change of spin keep the rhythm balanced and prevent the pace from overwhelming the point.
• Encourage and communicate: Confidence builds through support, not speed.
HOW WOMEN ADJUST IN MIXED DOUBLES
• Own the net: Women who move forward with confidence put immediate pressure on the opponents and keep the team connected.
• Trust in positioning: Allowing the male partner to take a bit more space when needed frees up the woman to anticipate and react.
• Stay assertive: Mixed doubles works best when both partners stay active—bold volleys and decisive returns keep the rhythm even.
• Direct the ball smartly: Targeting the weaker side, using depth, and changing direction at the right time can neutralize the opponent’s power.
THE TAKEAWAY
Mixed doubles is about balance. The best pairs learn to blend the intensity of the men’s game with the intelligence and precision of the women’s game. When both players play to their strengths—and trust one another—the result is not only more effective tennis but also more enjoyable matches for everyone.
So as we gear up for our upcoming mixed doubles socials and tournaments this month, remember: great mixed doubles isn’t about who hits harder— it’s about who plays smarter together.
Life in Balance
YVETTE BERNOSKY, B.MS., DIRECTOR OF FITNESS & WELLNESS, THE CLUB AT GRANDÉZZA
As many of you may know, I commute from Sarasota to Estero each week.
This 180-mile round-trip journey is usually a smooth and relaxing drive, and that’s largely because my car is well-maintained. When everything is in good working order, I can simply enjoy the ride.
Our personal wellness functions much the same way. All aspects of well-being are interconnected and influence one another to create a balanced, fulfilling life. Like a car, our wheels of wellness must all be functioning properly to carry us toward our goals. If even one “tire” is low or flat, the entire journey becomes more difficult.
harmony and a sense of connection to something greater than ourselves.
The Wheel of Wellness includes eight interdependent dimensions of health: intellectual, spiritual, emotional, physical, financial, social, environmental and occupational.
INTELLECTUAL WELLNESS
Encourages curiosity, creativity and lifelong learning. By maintaining intellectual wellness, we expand our perspectives, strengthen concentration, memory, and critical thinking and foster personal and professional growth.
SPIRITUAL WELLNESS
Centers on the beliefs and values that give our lives meaning and purpose. It fosters inner peace,
EMOTIONAL WELLNESS
Involves self-awareness, resilience and the ability to manage emotions in healthy ways. It’s about recognizing both our strengths and areas for improvement while maintaining a positive outlook on life.
PHYSICAL WELLNESS
Encompasses healthy habits around nutrition, sleep, exercise and preventive care. Prioritizing physical wellness gives us the energy and vitality to nurture all the other dimensions.
FINANCIAL WELLNESS
Focuses on balancing our financial needs and goals with mindful decision-making. It means living within our means, setting both short-term and long-term goals, and developing a sense of financial security.
SOCIAL WELLNESS
Emphasizes building and maintaining positive, supportive relationships. Strong social connections enhance our sense of belonging, boost self-esteem and foster effective communication.
ENVIRONMENTAL WELLNESS
Involves recognizing how our choices affect the world around us from our homes to our communities to the planet. It’s about taking responsibility for sustainability and creating healthy environments in which to live and work.
OCCUPATIONAL WELLNESS
Reflects finding purpose and satisfaction in our daily work, whether in a professional role or at home. It’s about using our unique skills and talents in ways that are both personally meaningful and socially valuable.
If any of these dimensions feel a bit “off balance,” take some time for a personal tune-up. Small adjustments can have a profound effect on your overall well-being, and help you enjoy the journey a little more smoothly.
A Life Saved – What Is the Heimlich Maneuver aka Abdominal Thrust?
BRIAN HURWITZ, PH.D., EMT, ENGAGE ESTERO, HEALTH COMMITTEE CHAIR
My wife, Felice, and I were having dinner at a local Chinese restaurant with friends, Frank and Paula. Paula often sought happiness with a couple of martinis, and that night was no exception.
We were enjoying beef with broccoli when the conversation suddenly became difficult, and Paula began gasping for breath. Frank, sitting immobile, just kept shoveling food into his mouth.
Recognizing a choking emergency, I jumped up, pushed Frank aside, and dashed behind Paula. Wrapping my arms around her midsection, I thrust my gripped fists sharply upward into her diaphragm. On the second thrust, a piece of meat shot out, and Paula began to breathe again.
It all happened so fast that no one in the noisy, crowded restaurant noticed the commotion at our table. Paula’s color returned, and she expressed heartfelt gratitude.
WHAT IS THE HEIMLICH MANEUVER AKA ABDOMINAL THRUST?
The Heimlich maneuver is a first-aid technique used to treat choking. It involves quick, upward abdominal thrusts that can dislodge food or objects stuck in the airway.
Here’s a clear summary of the American Red Cross Heimlich maneuver protocol for choking:
FOR RESPONSIVE ADULTS AND CHILDREN OVER 1 YEAR OLD
○ Ask the person if they’re choking and need help.
1. Identify Choking
○ Look for signs: inability to speak, cough, or breathe; clutching the throat; panicked expression; pale or bluish skin.
2. Give Abdominal Thrusts (Heimlich Maneuver)
○ Stand behind the person.
○ Place the thumb side of your fist just above their navel.
○ Grasp your fist with your other hand.
○ With fists clasped, perform quick, upward thrusts into the abdomen.
○ Continue until the object is expelled or the person can breathe.
FOR INFANTS UNDER 1 YEAR OLD
1. Support the Infant
○ Hold the infant face down on your forearm, head lower than chest.
2. Give 5 Back Blows
○ Use the heel of your hand between the shoulder blades.
3. Give 5 Chest Thrusts
○ Turn the infant face-up.
○ Use two fingers on the center of the chest, just below the nipple line.
4. Alternate Back Blows and Chest Thrusts
○ Continue until the object is dislodged or help arrives.
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.
IMPORTANT NOTES
• Do not perform abdominal thrusts on infants or pregnant individuals.
• Do not intervene if the person can cough forcefully or speak—encourage them to keep coughing.
• If the person becomes unresponsive, begin CPR and call for emergency help
Empower yourself, protect our community!
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.
United is the Way: Grandezza Joins United Way’s 2025-26 Campaign to Strengthen
The spirit of unity was on full display October 29 at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, where United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades launched its 2025-26 fundraising campaign with energy, optimism, and a goal of $11.5 million.
This year’s campaign theme, “United is the Way,” reflects the power of collective action. Campaign Co-chairs Carolyn Rogers and Will Prather reminded attendees that when we unite, we can overcome challenges and build a brighter future for all.
United Way Board Co-Chair Kevin Karnes emphasized the importance of the campaign, which supports over 90 partner agencies that provide essential services to families and individuals across our region. These include organizations like Children’s Advocacy Center, Valerie’s House, Cancer Alliance Network, Abuse Counseling and Treatment, and newcomers Visuality, Inc. and Better Together.
Grandezza continues to be a shining example of community involvement. For 17 years, our residents have stood proud among other gated communities in Southwest Florida supporting our local Lee County United Way. This long-standing commitment reflects our shared trust
in United Way’s mission, transparency, and impact. This year your Grandezza United Way Committee has set a goal of $220,000 for our upcoming campaign.
United is the Way we:
Nurture children and youth; Empower communities; Honor those who serve; Strengthen families; and meet critical needs in our area.
When you give to United Way, your donation reaches those in greatest need— helping families facing food insecurity, healthcare challenges, unemployment, and other urgent issues. Your support also provides hope and assistance to veterans, seniors, and low-income families through programs like United Way 211, a vital resource connecting people to services.
Grandezza residents will soon receive a neighborhood campaign mailing in December. Please take a moment to review the materials and consider giving generously. If you prefer to donate online, simply scan the QR code included in the mailing or visit UnitedWayLee.org/Donate.
Let’s show what Grandezza can do when we come together. Whether it’s a
Strengthen Our Community
donation, volunteering, or attending an event— your involvement matters. United is the Way, and together, we can make a lasting impact.
Kindly, Your Grandezza United Way Committee
Bill and Pat Motzer, Campaign Chairs
Peter Dersley, Mary Kay & Deemer Durham, Dennis Noice, Don Platt, Winnie Powel, and Pat & Neal Van Duyn
Scan here to donate safely online:
Grandezza Singers Announce December 10th & 11th Holiday Performances
JERI GREAF
The Grandezza Singers are delighted to present two holiday performances this December. Join us in the Ballroom on Tuesday, December 10 at 5:30 p.m. for an evening open to the Grandezza community, and on Wednesday, December 11 at noon for a special performance with the Grandezza GirlFriends.
The Holiday Celebration will feature many beloved holiday songs, along with an audience participation sing-along that’s sure to get everyone into the festive spirit.
We look forward to celebrating the holiday season with all our friends and neighbors at these special events.
Cook’s Corner BOURBON CREME ANGLAISE
JOHN DEJOY
1 quart Heavy Cream
1 tablespoon Vanilla
8 oz. Sugar
Dash of Salt
14 Egg Yolks
Last month I shared my “Sundried Cherry-White Chocolate Bread Pudding” recipe, so this month I want to share the best accompaniment for that dish. As the holidays are quickly approaching there’s nothing like a beautiful Creme Anglaise Sauce except with the addition of Bourbon! This isn’t real difficult, but it does take some attention. I hope you enjoy this sauce with your Warm Bread Pudding.
1) Heat the cream in a sauce pot to a simmer. Add the vanilla and salt
2) In a mixing bowl whip the yolks and sugar. This is called “creaming.”
3) “Temper” the warm cream slowly into the yolk and sugar mixture. For this you could enlist a partner! With the cream off the heat, use a ladle to slowly drizzle the cream into the sugar mixture while you are whipping—two busy hands or a partner with the ladle and a person on the whip. This can be done by one person. What I recommend is placing the mixing bowl on a wet towel to minimize the bowl’s spin as you are whipping.
4) Place the mixture back in the sauce pot on a low heat. Using a wood spoon or rubber spatula stir the sauce in a figure “8” motion as to keep it from sticking to the bottom or scrambling. We are looking for a “Nappe” consistency. Here is the attention part!!! I have used this term in other recipes: what this means is we want the sauce to stick to the spoon or spatula. You should see the “8” in the pan when it’s thick enough.
5) When the desired consistency is reached, we want to cool this down as fast as possible. I recommend straining the sauce through a mesh strainer (just in case we scrambled a touch) into another bowl. Place this in the fridge, uncovered for now.
6) In another saucepan, take 2 cups of a cheap Bourbon (This is not Pappyland). Think Jim Beam or Jack Daniels Whiskey. Reduce the booze to 25% of what you started with. Let cool a bit then add it to your Creme Anglaise.
7) When completely cooled, cover your sauce until it is time to eat!
Note 1 – Creme Anglaise is perfect the way it is. The addition of the Bourbon reduction really adds to the Bread Pudding. If you like, use the sauce base and flavor it with other stuff. For example, a Grand Marnier reduction would be excellent on Poached Pears, or a Baileys reduction on a Chocolate cake, or a Chocolate Creme Anglaise for a Berry Dessert. Those are just some possibilities to play with that use this Sauce Technique.
Note 2 – I appreciate your taking interest in these dishes. They truly all mean something to me. As always, if you have any questions feel free to contact me. Johnpdejoy@aol.com or 440-725-7625
The Littlest Goalie’s Christmas Miracle
JODY TILSETH
By age two, our son was obsessed with being a hockey goalie. He carried a miniature hockey stick everywhere and insisted on wearing a bicycle helmet to preschool, believing it was a hockey helmet. Other parents questioned whether he belonged there.
When he turned four in 1992, we finally found a hockey program that would accept him. Every Saturday, we woke at 3:30 a.m. to drive an hour for a 5:00 a.m. ice slot.
Finding equipment small enough proved nearly impossible. My husband cut down sticks and modified pads. I resized jerseys and altered everything else. We stuffed paper into skates and padding into gloves just to make it all fit.
That fall, the rink let him join their youngest team and said he could play goalie if he had the equipment. We finally found old goalie pads that still needed alterations. But no amount of searching could locate a goalie blocker and glove small enough. Without these items, the rules wouldn’t allow him in goal.
As December approached, our son announced his solution: “I’ll ask Santa. Santa can have his elves make anything.”
My husband and I felt anguished. For weeks, we called every hockey shop in the U.S. and Canada, visited saddle makers and cobblers, and contacted every manufacturer we could
find. The answer was always the same— no one made equipment that small.
As Christmas neared, I ordered a personalized jersey of his favorite team as a consolation gift, though the shop couldn’t guarantee it would arrive in time.
The week before Christmas, we took our son to see Santa at the mall. We had a plan: I would warn Santa beforehand that our son would ask for a glove and blocker that simply didn’t exist, and Santa would gently prepare him for disappointment. We chose this Santa for his experience.
I explained our dilemma, and Santa assured me he understood completely.
Then our son climbed onto Santa’s lap. When asked what he wanted for Christmas, he replied, “I want to be a goalie on my hockey team, but I can’t until I have a glove and blocker. My parents haven’t been able to find any in my size, but I know you can have your elves make them for me.”
Santa said, “Well, son, if you continue to be a very good young man, I think maybe you will just get your wish.”
My husband was furious. “How could Santa make such a promise?”
As we left, our son beamed. “See, I told you Santa would take care of everything!”
Days before Christmas, the hockey shop called—the jersey was delayed. Now there would be nothing our son wanted under the tree.
Late Christmas Eve afternoon, they called again. The jersey had arrived. “How late are you open?” I asked. It was nearly 5:00 p.m., and the shop was an hour away. Someone agreed to wait.
I arrived just after 6:00 p.m. The lights were dim, and I feared they’d closed, but the door was unlocked. Inside, no one was visible. “Hello? Is anyone here?”
An older gentleman emerged from the back room. He didn’t look like anyone I’d seen there before. In fact, he looked more like Santa than most Santas I’d ever seen.
“May I help you?” he asked. I explained about the jersey, and he retrieved it from under the counter. When I asked what I owed, he said, “Well, the receipt says $52 for the jersey, but it looks like there are also two other packages here with your name on them.”
Resident Notice - Entry Gate Access
Please advise all contractors and visitors in advance that access to the community is only allowed at the main gate located on Ben Hill Griffin Parkway. Most GPS applications will direct drivers to the entrance gates at Savona and the maintenance area on Corkscrew Road. Unauthorized vehicles attempting to enter the community at these gates causes backup for the residents and in some cases we have experienced damage to the gate equipment. Your attention to this request is appreciated and will
He pulled out a perfectly miniaturized goalie glove and blocker.
“Where did you get these?” I gasped. “How much are they?”
“Does $25 each sound reasonable? Let’s just make it an even $100 for everything in the spirit of the season.”
The next morning, our son saw the blocker and glove first. He whirled around the room, waving his perfectly-fitting equipment. “I told you Santa would make them for me! Santa can do anything!”
A couple of days later, I returned to thank the staff. The same clerk who took my original order started apologizing—the jersey had just arrived today, he said, holding it up.
facilitate entrance to the community by contractors and visitors.
In addition, allowing an unregistered visitor to follow a resident through the gate by tailgating is prohibited and any resident that violates the community’s access control procedure will risk suspension of RFID access for a period up to 90 days.
Grandezza Master Property Owners Association
“But it did arrive! I picked it up Christmas Eve along with the glove and blocker.”
“Ma’am, what are you talking about? We closed at 2:00 p.m. on Christmas Eve.”
When I described the older gentleman with grey hair and a grey beard, the bewildered clerk said no one there matched that description. The owner confirmed it. I paid for the second jersey and left, noticing the window sign: “Closing at 2:00 p.m. on Christmas Eve.”
All these years later, maybe believing in the magic of the season is all we need to remember that there really are unexplainable, virtually unbelievable mysteries in life. Just believe!
Please Pick Up After Your Pet
We all love our dogs—they’re part of the Grandezza family! But no one enjoys stepping in or seeing dog waste left behind on sidewalks, lawns, or common areas. Please be a responsible pet owner and pick up after your dog every time. Dog waste is not only unpleasant, it can spread bacteria and harm our beautiful community landscape. Let’s all do our part to keep Grandezza clean, healthy, and enjoyable for everyone—twolegged and four-legged alike!
Calling All Pet Owners!
Tell the rest of Grandezza about your beloved pet! Share favorite stories that reveal your pet’s personality in 300-600 words and we’ll feature your pet with a few pictures in the next issue of the Grandezza Gazzette.
Send your article to: sjsherwin18@gmail.com.
Visitor Access Control System at the Grandezza Front Entrance
Our DwellingLIVE access control system continues to be successfully used by most Grandezza residents. However, some residents are still calling the gatehouse directly to register their guests.
To help our gatehouse staff and ensure faster, more accurate visitor processing, we ask that you please register your guests using one of the following preferred methods instead of calling the gatehouse:
• The DwellingLIVE mobile app on your smartphone
• The DwellingLIVE website on your computer
• The Guest Registration System by phone (for those unable to use the app or website)
If you need to use the Guest Registration System, please follow these simple steps:
1. Call 239-986-8627 or 888-994-4117.
2. When prompted, clearly state the following information:
○ Name: Say your visitor’s name (e.g., “Perfect AC Systems”).
○ Date: Say the date (e.g., “September 21”).
○ Time: You do not need to specify a time.
○ Number of days: State how long the pass should be valid (e.g., “one day” or “two days”).
3. Press # when you are finished and then hang up.
Please keep your message brief. The DwellingLIVE system automatically recognizes your phone number and saves the voice message in your account. When your visitor arrives, the gate officer will retrieve the information from your account and issue a pass accordingly.
Thank you for helping us keep Grandezza’s access control system running efficiently and securely.
Grandezza’s Published Author Promotes New Novel
Grandezza’s own Sharmin Fairbanks McKenny promoted and autographed her newly published novel, Made to Last Forever: A Family. A House. A Nation., at the November luncheon. The historical novel depicts Sharmin’s ancestral family and their 17th-century colonial life. The Fairbanks House, built in 1637 in Dedham, Massachusetts, where her ancestors originally settled upon arrival from England, is the oldest timberframe house still standing in North America.
FGCU ENTREPRENEURIAL SCHOOL, GULFSHORE OPERA AND BOWER SCHOOL OF MUSIC & THE ARTS FEATURED AT ENGAGE ESTERO COMMUNITY MEETING JANUARY 29, 2026
Engage Estero’s January Community and Member Meeting features presenters on how FGCU’s entrepreneurial school benefits greater Estero, and how our cultural experiences are enriched by Gulfshore Opera and FGCU’s Bower School of Music & The Arts.
The meeting, which is free and open to the public, will be held at the Estero Recreation Center on Thursday, January 29, at 10 a.m. The address is 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd., located inside Estero Community Park & Recreation Center, Estero, FL 33928.
Dr. Bill McDowell, Dean, FGCU’s Daveler and Kauanui School of Entrepreneurship and Mark Ain Endowed Chair of Entrepreneurship will share how the school benefits our community and economy.
Steffanie Pearce, Founder and General Director, Gulfshore Opera will introduce its goals and the exciting upcoming season of performances.
Victoria (Tori) Kane, Community Engagement Coordinator, FGCU’s Bower School of Music & the Arts will share the school’s goals and the broad range of arts available to our community from their students.
Most residents are excited that they chose this area to live and work in. But we also need to ensure that we keep providing new opportunities and support for everyone trying to improve what is available.
Several plans and proposals are being considered for the future development of Greater Estero. There is a need for the Village, local businesses, and the public to support new business ideas that would have a positive commercial impact and prevent skilled workers from leaving our area!
Discussions are ongoing about establishing a Community Theatre Complex in Estero. However, this is unlikely to happen without support for the many existing musical genres that need backing.
TORI KANE, FGCU
DR. BILL MCDOWELL, FGCU
STEFFANIE PEARCE, GULFSHORE OPERA
Please come and listen to these dedicated individuals who are thinking of our future.
Seating is limited, so reservations are required for all attendees. Visit https://esterotoday.com/ jan2026 to RSVP.
The meeting will be recorded and posted to our YouTube channel @EngageEstero, so subscribe to be notified if you cannot make it.
FINAL
RESULTS ON TRAFFIC STUDY, UPDATES ON SEPTIC TO SEWER AND ESTERO RIVER PARK – DEC. 11 AT THE ESTERO RECREATION CENTER AT 10 A.M.
At this meeting, we will have several important updates from Village Management.
THE MEETING AGENDA
1. Final Results of the Village of Estero’s 2024 Traffic Study
2. Update of the Septic to Sewer Program.
3. Update of the Estero River Park Development.
https://esterotoday.com/dec2025/
THE 2025 DON ESLICK ESTERO PERSON OF THE YEAR AWARD
Celebrate excellence in the Estero community as Engage Estero presents the prestigious Don Eslick Estero Person of the Year Award. This annual event pays tribute to Don Eslick’s remarkable qualities and outstanding service to Estero. This year’s recipient is Dr. Larry Antonucci, the
President and Chief Executive Officer of Lee Health.
A special dinner honoring Dr. Antonucci will be held at the Estero Country Club at the Vines on the evening of February 26, 2026. Join us for a memorable evening of recognition and community spirit. To see more details and to register for the event click on this website: https://esterotoday.com/2026award/
Since 2017, Dr. Antonucci has led the Lee Health team in implementing numerous improvements to healthcare services in the greater Estero Area and Southwest Florida. These enhancements encompass Lee Health Coconut Point, the University Highlands facility, Bonita Health Center, and SWFL Proton Center. Beyond facilities and equipment, these improvements include additional services and staff to enhance the quality of healthcare
provided to our residents. Furthermore, Lee Health remains committed to planning future improvements in the greater Estero area as our community continues to expand.
In thanking Engage Estero’s President, Allan Bowditch, for the award, Dr. Antonucci said, “The mission of Lee Health is to be a ‘trusted partner,’ and our relationship with Estero is proof that we continue to invest to keep Estero a great place to live, work, play, and retire. As citizens of Estero ourselves, we remain committed to growing with the community.”
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PROTON CENTER OPENS IN ESTERO, LEGAL CHANGES FOR HOAS AND EAST CORKSCREW ROAD UPDATES COVERED IN RECENT COMMUNITY MEETING – SEE THE VIDEO AND SUMMARY
Dr. Shannon MacDonald, Medical Director at Southwest Florida Proton shared her knowledge and insights on the latest cancer research and new treatment options at the October 28 Engage Estero Community Meeting. This center
is opening in December in Estero. You can see the video, summary and slides by clicking on this link: https:// esterotoday.com/oct2025/
Also, at the meeting and on this video, Andy Provost, General Counsel and Overseer of Operational Aspects of Resort Management, provided homeowners and property managers with essential information about the legal changes that impact HOAs and Condominiums in Southwest Florida.
Mark Novitski is a consultant for Engage Estero and a member of the East Corkscrew Alliance. Mark spoke about matters related to East Corkscrew, including the latest road development news, mining and trucking traffic and safety issues regarding children attending local schools.
“Be Informed, Get Engaged, and Make an Impact!”
HOLIDAY SHOPPING SCAMS ON THE RISE
DID YOU KNOW …?
• TransUnion reports that the most popular day for online fraud attempts in 2024 was November 28 –Thanksgiving Day.
Key takeaway: Although you should always be diligent when online, the holiday season is prime time for scammers. Enjoy your holiday shopping but be wary of anything that looks suspicious. Take precautions, ask others for their opinion, and do your research BEFORE providing any personal or payment information.
Source: TransUnion Digital Holiday Fraud in 2024
• An AARP study has found that fraud involving packages has risen in recent years. Over half of the respondents (56%) reported receiving fake texts regarding package shipment issues, and 25% had a package stolen.
Key takeaway: If you get a text or email telling you there is an issue with an item you ordered, check carefully. If you know you did not order the item or do not recognize the name of the sender or retailer, that message could be a phishing attempt, trying to get you to click on a malicious link or provide personal information such as a credit card number. If you are unsure, contact the business through means that you research yourself.
The best way to secure your packages is to take delivery when they arrive. Unfortunately, that is not always possible. One alternative is to have your packages shipped to a USPS Smart Package Locker, which is an electronic, keyless parcel lockers that provide a safe, secure, and convenient package delivery and returns alternative for both package recipients and shippers.
Another alternative is the Amazon Hub Locker or Counter, where you can pick up your packages. This is a self-service, automated kiosk where you can pick up or return Amazon packages securely, without needing to interact with a store employee.
If you are shopping on Amazon and know that you will be home on a certain day of the week, select that day as your Amazon Day so your packages will arrive on a day you know you will be available. To select this option, navigate to your account, and choose your Amazon Day under Ordering and Shopping Preferences.
Source: AARP 2024 Survey
• Is online shopping the new shopping mall? Of adults aged 18 to 34, nearly three-fifths of respondents had purchased through an online ad, and 36% said they had experienced fraud.
Key takeaway: Shop only with reputable retailers; if you are shopping online, ensure you are using the correct website. Although a website looks legitimate, it may be spoofed. Be vigilant when clicking links within social media posts. If the deal they advertise looks too good to be true, it probably is. If you fall victim to one of those sites, be sure to contact your card issuer and deactivate your card, and remove any credit card information you have on the reputable retailer’s site.
Source: AARP 2024 Survey
• The AARP study also found that 56% adults are aware that using a credit card is much safer than a debit card to make purchases, but that number is down from 64% the year before.
Key takeaway: Using a credit card is much safer online than using a debit card or gift card. With a credit card, you may not be responsible for any fraudulent charges incurred on the card.
There are other payment methods which are safe, as well. If your bank issues virtual credit cards, you can use that method. When you are ready to purchase, you will enter a randomly generated card number instead of your actual card online. Also, many sites will allow you to use Apple Pay, PayPal or GooglePay, so you do not have to directly enter your information on the site when shopping.
Source: AARP 2024 Survey
LOCK IT OR LOSE IT
“Lock It or Lose It” is a crime prevention campaign that reminds citizens to lock their vehicles and properly secure valuables to help prevent property crimes.
Burglaries are often crimes of opportunity. Criminals may try multiple vehicles specifically looking for unlocked ones to enter. They may also look for unsecured property.
An unlocked vehicle or unsecured property becomes an easy target because criminals can easily grab what they want and leave.
Some preventive measures include:
Lock your car doors every time you leave the vehicle. This includes if you’re running a quick errand, stopping at the gas station, or you’re parked in the driveway.
Don’t leave valuables in any car, especially where they’re visible through the window. Also remember to remove valuables from truck beds. Visible items can attract criminal activity.
Make sure windows are shut before exiting a vehicle and never leave your car running unattended.
Park in well-lit areas to deter criminals from approaching your vehicle. Lighting is one of the most effective deterrents to crime.
Remove keys and spare keys from parked vehicles and golf carts. Store keys in a safe and secure location.
Properly lock up property such as bicycles, scooters, golf carts, etc.
Close garage doors. Property and vehicles inside an open garage are easy targets for theft.
Properly secure your home by locking doors and windows.
Remind family and friends to “Lock It or Lose It.”
Report suspicious activity to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office or to your local law enforcement agency.
Did you know the Lee County Sheriff’s Office provides over a dozen free crime prevention programs? These sessions cover practical tips to help keep you and your community safe. If you’d like to schedule one for your neighborhood, business, church, or organization, just give us a call at (239) 477-1CRU (1278) or send an email to CRU@sheriffleefl.org.
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
2010 Club Car. Completely refurbished in 2012. Has had annual care and service by Gator Sports. New Batteries in October 2023. Runs well, 17-18 mph. Tires are good, new in 2020. Asking $2450. Call 419-349-0299. (Expires 3/26)
Beach Sun Shelter Tent, 10 ft by 10 ft by Coleman. Easy to put up. Enjoy the beach longer out of the hot sun. Original price $170. Sell for $50. Call Tom 239-2877808. (Expires 2/26)
Christmas Tree Decorations. 3 large plastic bins with Bulbs, Lights, Garlands, Ice Cycles, Tree Skirt, Tree Stand and much more. $45. Call Tom 239-2877808. (Expires 3/26)
Italian Leather Sofa & Armchair with Ottoman. Excellent condition, gently used, originally from Robb & Stucky. Also, two twin size beds with brand new memory foam mattresses. Call 201-7496389. (Expires 3/26)
KitchenAid 24 cubic feet three door stainless steel refrigerator, would make a great garage fridge. Call Mike 651206-8460 (Expires 2/26)
Seasonal rental - Beautiful, updated first-floor furnished 2 BR + Den / 2 BA condo in Sabal Palm with golf course views. Rental includes limited rounds of golf at Grandezza. Contact Doug at 612237-5695 for details. (Expires 2/26)
SERVICES NEEDED
Occasional Cat Sitter for my 3 year old cat. He’s very friendly and would enjoy a visit every day for 15 or 30 minutes and be given fresh food and water. I live in Avalon. Please contact Ann at: ajflucy@yahoo.com (Expires 1/26)
SERVICES OFFERED
Airport Rides: Airport rides any time or day at affordable rates by a resident of Grandezza. Call or text Sue at (708) 846-1985. (Expires 3/26)
Art That Brings Us Together
CELEBRATING 26 YEARS OF CREATIVITY, CONNECTION, AND COMMUNITY
Each February, the Fort Myers River District transforms into a vibrant open-air gallery filled with color, creativity, and connection. For 26 years, ArtFest Fort Myers has brought our community together to celebrate the power of the arts and this year’s festival, happening February 6 to 8, 2026, promises to be one of the most inspiring yet.
What began as a small community event has blossomed into Southwest Florida’s premier fine art festival, drawing thousands of art lovers and featuring more than 200 professional artists from across the country. But beyond the paintings, sculptures, and jewelry that fill the streets, ArtFest has always been about something much deeper: the people who make it happen and the community that calls it home.
“ArtFest isn’t just an event, it’s a shared experience,” says Juan Santiago, executive director of ArtFest Fort Myers. “Every year, we see families who have been coming for decades, volunteers who help us bring the festival to life, and young students who
discover their own creativity through our artin-education programs. It’s a reflection of what makes Fort Myers such a special place.”
That sense of belonging is what makes ArtFest more than a weekend festival. Through programs like Chalk Block, where high school students transform the pavement into a colorful masterpiece, and Art Under 20, which showcases the talent of emerging artists, ArtFest Fort Myers continues to invest in the next generation of creators. The festival’s commitment to community extends throughout the year, supporting arts education and offering opportunities for engagement that last long after the tents come down.
Visitors can also look forward to the Opening Night VIP Party—a lively Friday evening celebration overlooking the river, filled with live music, great food, and a first look at the artists’ work. The weekend continues with two full days of art-filled experiences, from live
entertainment and interactive art to familyfriendly fun and local food favorites.
“ArtFest is where creativity meets community,” Santiago adds. “It’s where neighbors reconnect, visitors fall in love with Fort Myers, and artists feel truly celebrated. We invite everyone to be part of it—whether you come to volunteer, collect new art, or simply spend the day surrounded by inspiration.”
So, mark your calendars and get ready to experience ArtFest Fort Myers, February 6 to 8, 2026, along the beautiful downtown riverfront. Come see why, after 26 years, this community tradition still reminds us that art doesn’t just decorate life—it brings us together.
For more information, to become a volunteer, or to plan your visit, visit ArtFestFortMyers.com or follow @ArtFestFortMyers on social media.
Gatehouse (239) 498-8895
Gatehouse (DwellingLIVE Automated # to register guests) (239) 986-8627
Address 11450 Grande Oak
Clubhouse (239) 948-3569
Grandezza ExpressTake 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 Mike Bresson 603-812-8455
Oakwood I (bldg 1-8 & 23-29) Al Meyer 239-313-0580
Oakwood II (bldg 9-22) Lillian Bennett 239-992-5583
Sabal Palm Mark Sherwin 201-370-4160
Santa Lucia Celia Platt 239-498-8158
Saraceno Jeanne Basso 239-600-2828 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
Sarah Hartman P
Peter Dersley VP
Mickey Wheeler T
Barry Blank 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 ..................................................... chair
Community Affairs
Sarah Hartman .................................................... chair
GRANDE ESTATES
Peter Dersley P
Cameron Snyder VP
Doug Craft T
Laura Reddin S
Leaha Neville D
OAKWOOD
Sandra Renner P
Brad Robinson D
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
Brian Schultz P Wes Wilkins T
Paul Copper VP/S
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