Master POA Report
FRED THOMPSON
What a difference a few weeks make! Our roads are now moving pretty well and the restaurant lines are shorter! The rainy, windy season has started but no storms are on the horizon yet as I write this.
The May Master Board meeting will be followed by our usual three-month summer break. During the summer, our Directors will be preparing their 2026 budget worksheets so Mickey Wheeler
can prepare the 2026 budget for approval this fall. Hopefully we will not have to budget a supplement for our Restoration Reserve to cover expenses from a 2025 “wind storm!”
The Florida legislature has completed its 2-month annual session except for the budget which must be completed by June 30. It is interesting that the budget has been delayed by discussions about whether to rebate a couple of billion dollars to the citizens as a reduction in property taxes or sales tax. What a difference compared to our legacy northern home states where they are discussing how to generate more revenue!
It does not appear that the legislature has proposed any significant new laws that will impact our residential associations (HOAs and COAs). Here are some of the proposals that were decided: declined more development (such as resorts, etc.) in the state parks; approved making it easier for those wrongly convicted/incarcerated to be compensated for their jail time; allowed relatives of those over age 25 to sue for medical malpractice; approved protecting emergency utility workers from assault; kept horse breeding and race track gambling
connected; turned down a possible repeal of the 2024 law limiting trial attorney fees on insurance litigation; repealed a law that required later start times for high school students; turned down a law defining the flags authorized to fly from governmental buildings in FL; approved a law that effectively makes petitioning to amend our constitution virtually impossible; and approved eliminating fluoride in municipal water systems. Now we wait to see what bills will be signed by the governor by June 30.
This was apparently an unusually difficult session for our “lame duck” governor even though he was reelected last fall with a large majority and “long coat tails.” He took a very active role last fall in defeating two state referendums and financed some of the negative advertising using funds that appear to have been tied to state funding. Both referendums garnered over 50% public support but did not reach the 60% approval for adoption. This is apparently impacting the expected campaign by the governor’s wife to secede him as governor. So far it appears that our congressman, Byron Daniels is the early leader in the 2028 Governor’s race although our sheriff has indicated
an interest in running if he can get the FBI to release its investigation report. Aren’t Florida politics interesting?
The big surprise in May was the election of an American Pope. With his family roots in the Chicago area he should be well versed in “saving the fallen.” We wish him well with his difficult new responsibilities. It is interesting that his middle-income family has ties to SWFL with one of his two siblings living in Port Charlotte. They talk to him often and were totally surprised by his election. They will have an interesting location for reunions!
Tariffs have been the principal national news item this spring. Aren’t you glad that there does not appear to be any way to place a tariff on our warm winter weather?! A local item of interest is that Aldi may have decided against the proposed Corkscrew store site.
That’s all for now. Have a fun and safe summer!
EDITOR’S THOUGHT OF THE DAY
Holidays of June
SUSAN SHERWIN
June marks the beginning of summer in the Northern Hemisphere and winter in the Southern Hemisphere, although here in SW Florida we’re accustomed to summer weather all year long.
In the United States Flag Day (June 14th) celebrates the adoption of the flag of the U.S. on that day in 1777 by resolution of the Second Continental Congress. It is thirteen horizontal stripes alternating red and white with one white star for each state (50 stars as of 1960) arranged in horizontal rows (of alternating numbers of six and five stars per row as of 1960) on a blue field. Other names for our flag include: the Stars and Stripes; the Red, White, and Blue; Old Glory; and the StarSpangled Banner U.S. flag.
Father’s Day, celebrated on the third Sunday in June (June 15th), honors fathers, paternal bonds, and the influence of fathers in society. It originated in the U.S. in the early 20th century and was inspired by Mother’s Day. While the first Father’s Day was celebrated in 1910, it took more than six decades for the day to become official. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson recognized Father’s Day; in 1924, President Calvin Coolidge urged states to observe the holiday; and in 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson made the first presidential proclamation designating the third Sunday in June as Father’s Day.
Juneteenth (June 19th) commemorates the ending of slavery in the United States, and refers to June 19, 1865, the day Major General Gordon Granger ordered the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation in Texas at the end of the American Civil War. It became recognized as a federal holiday in 2021 when the 117th U.S. Congress enacted it and President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law.
Many countries observe summer solstice celebrations between June 20 and 22. For example in Scandinavia, Midsummer festivals feature maypole dancing, floral wreaths, and bonfires. Sweden’s Midsommar tends to be particularly elaborate. Similar solstice celebrations also occur across Europe, including the UK’s gathering at Stonehenge.
Across Latin America, many countries celebrate Día de San Juan (St. John’s Day) on June 24th with water rituals and bonfires. In East Asia, Dragon Boat Festivals occur in China and neighboring countries, featuring boat races and rice dumplings.
So, as you see June’s holidays reflect themes of transition, abundance, and cultural identity and provide opportunities for communities to gather, reflect, and rejoice as they mark the changing seasons.
Be True to You
YVETTE BERNOSKY, B.MS., DIRECTOR OF FITNESS & WELLNESS, THE CLUB AT GRANDÉZZA
I could feel my body rocking back and forth with a gentle, peaceful energy. As I led this meditation on self-love, I was speaking from a state of transcendence. Inspired by my spirit, the words flowed naturally from me to the others in the room, as they equally received them. The beauty in this type of energy is that a natural high is often experienced, where creativity moves through the individual.
For me, in this blissful state, it brings me joy, and I feel the need to help empower others. But what does it mean to truly live from our authentic selves?
One may believe in being honest, but sometimes tells white lies. And, one may say I’m your friend, but then spread rumors about you behind your back. Or, one may believe it essential to care for their health, but sabotage themselves with bad choices. If these truly are one’s core values and beliefs, then they are choosing not to live authentically, as contradictions hold us back from living to our full potential. It’s like an invisible ball and chain around one’s ankle, weighing them down.
Just being alive is a creative act in and of itself. Each one of us is creative in many ways, as we may express our creativity in how we speak and dress. Or, through the arts, our work, or by using our imagination to bring innovative ideas to life. It’s important to know yourself for who you are, not just someone trying to fit in or feeling pressure from society to be a certain way. When we are in a space where we can freely express ourselves as who we are, we are living authentically.
A few years back, when I first started teaching at the club, members were not as familiar with the wellness modalities of meditation and energy work, so I decided to introduce these practices. I knew it could be considered risky as it would be a foreign concept to many, and the participants might not understand it or be open to it. However, I decided to follow my intuition rather than hold back, leaning into my authentic self, and what happened is that many members ultimately expressed how much they enjoyed it and looked forward to it in future classes. Had I resisted sharing that side of myself, the members would never have received my gift, and I would not have experienced the joy it brought me.
Our lives tick away. Days turn into weeks, weeks turn into months, and the years pass by. As we live authentically,
we allow ourselves to step into the essence of our being and reach our full potential, leaving no regrets behind about who we were meant to be. I encourage you to embrace yourself and always remember to be true to you.
Tennis Corner
DAVID DEKEERSMAKER, DIRECTOR OF TENNIS THE CLUB AT GRANDÉZZA
THE SMARTER WAY TO BE AGGRESSIVE: PLACING BIG SHOTS IN CONSERVATIVE TARGETS
When we talk about aggressive tennis, it’s easy to imagine line-painting winners, risky angles, and highlight-reel shots. But here’s the truth: the best aggressive players in the world aren’t trying to hit the lines. They’re hitting aggressive shots—yes — but aiming for conservative targets.
This subtle but powerful distinction is what separates smart, winning tennis from flashy, inconsistent play. Today, let’s look at why these matters, how it works, and where you should be placing your aggressive shots.
WHAT DO WE MEAN BY “CONSERVATIVE TARGETS”?
Conservative targets are locations on the court that give you margin for error—a few feet inside the lines, over the middle 60% of the net, or placed deep in the court instead of sharp and short.
When you combine aggressive intent with safe targets, you get the best of both worlds: pressure without panic.
WHERE SHOULD YOU AIM YOUR AGGRESSIVE SHOTS?
Here are several high-percentage, conservative locations where your biggest shots still make sense:
1. Big Forehand Crosscourt
• Why: It’s the longest diagonal on the court, which gives you more room to swing big with less risk.
• Margin: 3–5 feet inside the sideline, net clearance of 3 feet or more.
2. Aggressive Backhand Deep to the Middle
• Why: Attacking the middle gives you a clean target with zero angles in return.
• Margin: Clears the net solidly, lands near the service line or deeper.
3. Approach Shot Down the Middle Third
• Why: Reduces passing angles and puts pressure on your opponent to hit a perfect shot.
• Margin: Aim two racquet widths inside the sidelines and go deep.
4. Heavy Crosscourt Topspin on Short Balls
• Why: High net clearance keeps it safe, but the spin and angle still pull your opponent wide.
• Margin: Land it deep enough to push them back, not just wide.
5. First Serves at the Body or into the Big Part of the Box
• Why: You don’t need an ace—you need a weak return. Hitting your biggest serve into a safe spot is both assertive and consistent.
• Margin: Avoid the lines; aim 6–12 inches inside the service box boundaries.
6. Drive Volleys Targeting the Middle of the Court
• Why: Drive volleys are already risky. Hitting them toward the middle adds safety while still keeping the pressure on.
• Margin: Chest-high or lower, aimed center or deep.
7. Return of Serve Deep and Down the Middle
• Why: Taking a cut at a second serve is smart—but aiming safely allows you to be aggressive without giving the point away.
• Margin: Net clearance with drive, target the “T” area.
WHY IS THIS STRATEGY SO EFFECTIVE?
• It keeps you in control—You stay aggressive without bleeding errors.
• It creates pressure—Your opponent sees pace and depth, not just placement.
• It builds rhythm—You can repeat aggressive patterns because your targets aren’t razor-thin.
• It wins matches—Consistency plus pressure beats highlight-reel risk.
The next time you get a short ball, a second serve, or a chance to attack, think about not just how hard you’re hitting, but where you’re aiming. Big swings into safe targets—that’s highlevel tennis.
Reader’s Corner
SUSAN SHERWIN
Marjan Kamali’s The Lion Women of Tehran is a compelling exploration of family, identity, and courage set against the backdrop of Iran’s complex social and political landscape. Kamali, known for her nuanced storytelling in novels like The Stationery Shop delivers a powerful narrative that highlights key historical events in Iran, such as the Westernization under the Shah, the 1979 Islamic Revolution, and the rise of religious fundamentalism. This is a story about feminine courage, moral fortitude and the desire for freedom in a place where it often is dangerous to be a woman.
Kamali sets the story of two girls, Ellie and Homa, against this historical background. Ellie is from a privileged wealthy background and descended from royalty, who, with her mother is forced to leave their home in an affluent section of Tehran when her father dies. Homa comes from a lowerclass neighborhood, her father is a communist, and she confidently is headed towards fighting injustice even at a young age. As seven-year-olds the two classmates forge an indestructible bond, sharing the joys of childhood and the ups and downs of adolescence.
We read of the fundamentalist religious rule of Ayatollah Khomeini. Under its stringent version of Islam, the marriage age was pushed back, making it acceptable to marry off child brides. The marriage age could be as young as nine years old. A woman was no longer permitted the choice of whether she covered her head or was veiled.
It was required, and punishment by the morality police issued for disobedience. When Saddam Hussein of Iraq invaded Iran, Iran was involved in a full-fledged war. While its young men were conscripted to fight, women were further repressed.
When Homa and Ellie are young women, though, their friendship is fractured and they lose touch as one moves to the United States. Each woman embodies the “lion” of the title through her unique form of resistance and resilience.
Kamali’s prose paints Tehran with sensory richness—from the scent of saffron wafting through the bustling Grand Bazaar to the whispered conversations in hidden courtyards. Her attention to detail creates an immersive experience that transports readers directly into the private and public spheres of Iranian life across decades of transformation.
What distinguishes this novel is Kamali’s refusal to simplify complex realities. She portrays Iran as a vibrant, contradictory society where tradition and modernity constantly collide. Through her descriptive stories, she sheds light on themes of gender, politics, and social change without resorting to stereotypes or easy conclusions.
Writers Wanted!
The relationship between the Homa and Ellie forms the emotional center of the narrative, demonstrating how strength is passed down and transformed from generation to generation. Their individual journeys are different aspects of female experience in Iran—compromises, quiet rebellions, and keeping one’s selfhood under varying degrees of restriction.
Kamali excels at depicting the interior lives of her characters, revealing how external political circumstances shape personal choices without fully determining them. The Lion Women of Tehran is a remarkable achievement that offers both a saga and a window into Iranian history and culture. This is a novel that has stayed with me, one I highly recommend.
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.
Travel Corner
MARY MELHORN
WITNESSING THE ENGINEERING MARVEL OF THE PANAMA CANAL
Bruce and I were ready to continue traveling the world, so we boarded the Viking Mars cruise ship at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale on February 7th, 2025 and set sail on our Panama Canal adventure.
The trip began with two relaxing days at sea enjoying classical music programs, guitar entertainment and the “toe-tapping” numbers of the “Viking Band.” We learned about the Canal as we listened to two guest lectures by canal expert Corey Sandler. One was titled “The Dreams and Disasters of the Original Canal Plan” and the other “Our Passage Between the Seas.” Making our way toward this mechanical wonder, we needed to understand what we soon would experience.
Our first port of call was Cozumel, Mexico. This island off Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula holds keys to many intriguing secrets of Mexico’s ancient civilizations. At San Gervasio, we admired the ruins and learned of the history and customs of this sacred Mayan religious site.
The second port of call was Belize City, Belize and the ancient site of Altun Ha. Several Mesoamerican temple pyramids stand as testament to an advanced and mysterious Mayan civilization. Many who visited enjoyed snorkeling and other water sports, and we were not able to dock, to protect the beautiful coral reef, so we tendered to the port.
Roatan, Honduras, part of the Bay Islands, was our next stop. More than a tropical playground, it has rich history of Spanish, British, and French presence. Over the decades, settlers from around the world put down
roots and established a successful fruit trade industry.
Our Viking excursion was to the Carambola Gardens. This is not an ordinary flower garden, but a botanical garden filled with jungle plants such as mahogany, mango, star fruit trees and a non-edible ginger with beautiful red buds.
Back on board the Mars, we enjoyed a pool deck BBQ and dancing under the stars.
Another day at sea, we relaxed on the Caribbean Sea’s turquoise waters where rich legends of marauding pirates, swashbucklers and cannon skirmishes were born. We also benefited from additional
educational lectures, one concerning “The Natural History of Costa Rica” and another about the history, heritage, and culture of Puerto Limon, Costa Rica.
We enjoyed a delicious dinner that evening. I had a tender and flavorful steak and my adventurist husband had octopus. He said that it was very good!
The next day, we docked at Puerto Limon, Costa Rica, one of the world’s most biodiverse countries. Italian, Jamaican, and Chinese residents descended from immigrants who came to lay the railroad to San Jose, make up its rich Afro-Caribbean heritage. During our excursion “Rainforest
by Train and Boat” we explored the tropical Tortuguero Canals, which support a diverse array of wildlife. We saw a three-toed sloth and an emerald lizard among other animals.
The next port of call was Colon, Panama that lies near the Panama Canal’s Atlantic entrance. In the areas outside the city, the Embera people, who descended from ancient tribes, live in thatched roof huts, travel by dugout canoe and weave traditional baskets. Indigenous tribes maintain a strong presence here.
Our excursion to explore nearby Panama City revealed an impressive skyline of this huge city. After passing the monument commemorating President Jimmy Carter’s gifting of the Canal to Panama, we explored a park and shopping area. The weather was beautiful!
February 16th was the “Grand Finale” and the highlight of our cruise as we transited through the Panama Canal. Opened in 1914, the Canal crosses the narrowest stretch of the Isthmus of Panama. It is 48 miles long. Witnessing this engineering marvel at work is truly amazing. At the Caribbean and Pacific ends, a vast series of locks lifts and lowers the ship 85 feet from sea level, guided by electric engines that do the job performed by mules on older canals. We were surprised to hear that the Viking Mars ship paid $200,000 to transit the canal
one way and they would have to pay the same amount for the return trip.
On our last evening, we enjoyed a farewell performance by our favorite entertainers before an early bedtime. The next morning, we transferred to Panama City airport for our flight home. What a great trip!!
Pet Corner
SARAH H
BOGEY’S AND MY JOURNEY
You can often see Bogey and me taking short walks in Villa Grande. And, if you’re an early bird, you can find us out and about with flashlight in hand (Sarah’s hand – not Bogey’s). It wasn’t that long ago that the two of us would walk up to the clubhouse and back home, but Bogey is slowing down and no longer able to walk that far. His days of trekking through the wooded trails of FDR State Park in Pine Mountain, GA or around Heath Lake in Columbus, GA are in the past. But I can tell he’d love it if he could still do it!
My late husband Mark and I adopted Bogey from the Humane Society in Columbus, GA on August 11, 2012. Previously we had lost both our rescue dog and my cat to cancer. When we started looking for our new companion, we never really considered a different route than a rescue. When I saw the cute little 4-month-old puppy online with what looked like eyeliner ringing his eyes (and a bit of trouble in his expression) I fell in love. We loved him even more in person and he cuddled right up (for about the last time – he is very affectionate and follows me everywhere – but he is not a cuddler). The information we were given is that he is a Boykin Spaniel Mix, born
on April 12, 2012. He doesn’t look much like a Boykin Spaniel, so who knows what the “mix” part is.
But what a time we had when we got Bogey home! We decided they must have given him medication to keep him calm for the open adoption day, because he was an absolute terror once we had him home. He promptly chewed a hole in our new family room rug and proceeded to spend every spare minute biting my ankles. His energy was non-stop and he was (and still is!) very, very stubborn. We didn’t have any trouble with potty training, but didn’t have much luck getting him to listen to us or behave in any other way. We later learned that in addition to having been owner surrendered – he had been adopted and brought back a couple of times before we brought him home. We were determined to keep him as part of our family and started working with a well-
regarded and experienced local dog trainer. She was wonderful and with her persistence and ours, we worked through it. So glad we did!
While I was at work, Mark and Bogey took many walks through our neighborhood, around the local parks, on the Chattahoochee River Walk, through Callaway Gardens, and through the beautiful trails at nearby Pine Mountain’s FDR State Park. I joined them on the weekends. I’m so glad they had that time because unbeknown to us at the time we adopted Bogey our lives shortly would change forever.
Less than a year later, Mark began having a variety of health difficulties that doctors could not explain. It started with muscle weakness and coordination and then problems with walking, writing and talking. Fifteen months later after countless more doctor visits, tests and an extended trip to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, we were devastated to learn that Mark had a rare and incurable condition, Multiple System Atrophy (MSA). We were told there was little which could be done and that his condition would worsen and ultimately result in his death. Bogey brought him (and me) so much comfort during the 19 months between Mark’s diagnosis and his death at age 62 in 2016.
Towards the end of Mark’s life, the first thing Bogey would do in the morning when he knew Mark was awake would be to put his head gently under Mark’s hand for Mark to stroke his head and get a few licks in return. He was a blessing as he stayed by Mark’s side and was so gentle around him. It was heartbreaking to watch Bogey
continue to bound in to find Mark many mornings after Mark was no longer with us, and it showed what a strong bond they had built.
Bogey and I carried on and found new joys. We began walking on the River Walk and through the parks again and he was fortunate to have 3 awesome pet walkers and sitters during the times I was at work or traveling. We moved from Georgia to Florida in 2021 and found many new things to enjoy here. I was a bit worried Bogey would miss his 1-acre yard, but he quickly adapted, as always. He didn’t blink an eye when one day we were in GA and the next we were in a totally different house with no yard to play in. He loves going on walks—even what have become very short ones.
Mark used to toss Bogey a ball or frisbee to chase in the yard every morning. He started that to help get rid of some of that extra puppy energy Bogey had. I continued that and even after we moved—we’ve settled for throwing it in the house. Even this morning, Bogey came in and brought his ball to me. He only has enough energy these days to chase it once or maybe twice, but he loves bringing it back for compliments and a few pets. Well, honestly, sometimes he drops it and comes back without it but still gets compliments and pets.
He and I have our own language after all these years. I frequently tell him “Wait 2 more minutes” when it’s clear by his stare or sounds coming out of his mouth that he wants me to be doing something for him and
I’m otherwise engaged. I can almost picture his eyeroll and telling himself, “Whatever, it’s going to be more than 2 minutes.” As a matter of fact, since Bogey is staring at me right now – it’s time for me to go.
A few last-minute things about Bogey. He loves getting pets, but wants to be warned in advance if you are going to hug him. His tail is very fluffy and a neighbor recently said it looks like a fox’s tail and it does! He loves treats, walks and snow (of all things, being a Georgia and Florida dog who has only been in it a few times in Georgia). He also destroys every single stuffed animal he’s ever had—in minutes. Forget those descriptions of “for tough chewers.” I should have signed him up to be a tester for one of the dog toy companies. Most of all, he loves to be around people and give and receive love. Say hello when you see him out and about. But don’t be surprised if he barks or is hesitant with you at first. He is still a bit anxious by nature.
United Way Achieves Record Campaign Goal!
United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades has once again rallied the community, raising an incredible $11.3 million to support local partner agencies. For 32 years, this region has consistently demonstrated the power of unity and generosity, providing that together, we can make a real difference.
A heartfelt thank you to the Grandezza Community –your support is transforming lives and strengthening our community!
Jeannine Joy President/CEO
United Way of Lee, Hendry and Glades
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.
Cook’s Corner CHICKEN LIVER MOUSSE
JOHN DEJOY
For June I choose a recipe a little more decadent. This was on the menu at John Palmer’s Bistro 44 for some time and is a favorite of the bosses, especially Michelle DeJoy! We love the Mousse at C-Level as it reminds us of this dish. Our version is easy, and very delicious. Give it a try.
1 lb. Bacon, Diced
2 lbs. Chicken Livers
1 cup Sliced Shallots
4 Granny Smith Apples, Peeled and Diced
1 tablespoon Butter (preferably unsalted)
1) Render the bacon, add the livers and sauté.
2) Add apples, shallots, butter, spices and brandy.
3) Reduce, let it flame up and let the flavors cook together.
4) Add the balsamic, reduce.
1 teaspoon Cinnamon
2 tablespoons Brown Sugar
.5 cups Brandy
.5 cups Balsamic Vinegar
3 oz. Heavy Cream
1.5 teaspoons Nutmeg Salt and Pepper
5) Place in a food processor or blender and puree. Drizzle the heavy cream into the mixture.
6) Taste and adjust seasoning.
7) Place into a serving bowl. Let the mousse cool, cover and rest in the fridge overnight. The mousse will set up. Serve with toast points or crackers.
At John Palmer’s Bistro 44 we would portion the mousse into ramekins or individual serving sized jars. At service time we would lightly dust sugar on top of the mousse and Brulee the top. Like a Creme Brulee. To finish we would put a couple drops of brandy on the sugar layer. This was a hit for years. Now, if you have any Foie gras laying around the house I would add .5 pounds of Foie to this mixture after
the livers and before the apples. Please notice that this is an industrial sized recipe!!!! To cut it in half should be plenty.
Bon Appetit!
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
In May, our guest speaker from St. Matthew’s House, Hillary Lemaster, spoke about how they take those in need from crisis to contributors. They are growing their services to ensure that no one experiencing hunger, homelessness or addiction is alone. Grandezza has generously and faithfully supported the work of St. Matthew’s House for many years and we look forward to our continued partnership. The GirlFriends’ bracelet was awarded to Lenor Blanco and we celebrated the birthday of Michele Francesconi this past month.
In the spirit of giving, the quilt group, lead by Shirley Cook, made a stunning quilt that was donated to the Naples Shelter for Abused Women and Children. It will be auctioned off at their annual fundraiser next year. Thanks Shirley, and helpers, Sue Koser, Linda Chow, Gail Navarro, Laura Summy, Sheila Solyom, Janet Doll and Carole McNamara for the many hours and talent in making this beautiful work of art. Well done ladies!
I-75 ROAD WIDENING COMMENCES IN 2026 BETWEEN CORKSCREW ROAD AND GOLDEN GATE
Despite the benefits of widening I-75 from 6 lanes to 8 lanes, Estero residents living near the highway have expressed many concerns about the increased traffic noise that is likely to result. Senior staff at Engage Estero have prepared a detailed article that explains the way the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) determines whether they would put noise abatement solutions in place and how the public, HOAs and Gated Communities, and our Local Council can influence the result.
Those communities that are likely to be most affected, but not necessarily limited to, are Stoneybrook, Woodlands, Tidewater, Villagio, Villa Palmares, Shadow Wood, Copperleaf, Lighthouse Bay, and Pebble Pointe.
The report can be accessed by clicking https://wp.me/pgats9-aP3.
THE RESULTS OF THE MAY 23RD IMPORTANT MEETING ABOUT THE SPORTS AND RECREATION COMPLEX
The Village Management and the Projects Manager provided an update on the Estero Recreation and Sports Complex on Friday, May 23rd at the Estero Recreation Center. The Estero Recreation and Sports Complex represents the most significant investment made by the Village in its 10-year history. The site plan allows ample space for additional recreation and sports-related partnerships, which were covered during the meeting. The speakers were: Steve Sarkozy:
Steve Sarkozy, Estero’s Village Manager
David Willems, Estero’s Village Director of Public Works
Estero’s Village Manager; David Willems: Estero’s Village Director of Public Works; and Michael Comparato, Director of Vieste LLC and Project Manager of the Sports Complex.
If you missed this important meeting, Engage Estero has posted the YouTube video of the meeting together with a summary of the key points that were covered during the meeting on our website. Go to this link: https://esterotoday.com/may2025
Michael Comparato, Director of Vieste LLC and Project Manager of the Sports Complex
OTHER IMPORTANT LINKS TO SOME OF OUR RECENT ARTICLES ARE SHOWN BELOW: HEALTHCARE TOPICS
• Improvements locally in Pancreatic Cancer Treatments, Use of Drones in delivering AEDs, and The Right to Clean Water: https://esterotoday.com/apr2025summary/
• Skin Cancer and The Best Sunscreens to Use: https://esterotoday.com/skin-cancerwhy-regular-checkups-are-important/
• New Options for Women Undergoing Mammograms: https://esterotoday.com/newoptions-for-women-undergoing-mammograms/
• The Big C: Significant Advances in Cancer Treatments: https://esterotoday.com/thebig-c-significant-advances-in-cancer-treatments/
• The Value of Nanotechnology in Healthcare: https://esterotoday.com/what-is-thevalue-of-nanotechnology-in-healthcare/
Don’t forget, if you are not receiving Engage Estero’s free regular communications, you can easily sign up to do that on the front page of the website: www.esterotoday.com.
Can You Decipher These Idioms From Foreign Languages?
JENNIFER A. FREEMAN, SENIOR EDITOR, WORD SMARTS
Foreign languages have clever idioms, too. Check out these witty sayings from all over the world that you might want to add to your repertoire.
Let’s not beat around the bush. There are plenty of idioms in English, but other languages have colorful (and useful) idioms, too. An idiom is an expression with a meaning that can’t be deduced from the definitions of the individual words. For example, in English, we “see the light” when we metaphorically come to a conclusion after a long delay, but a speaker of another language might see that expression translated and wonder where the lightbulb is. It’s the same with idioms in other languages: When we read the phrases in English, the words may not make much sense, but in context they have clever and
instructive meanings. Let’s learn some idioms from around the world.
Pulling water from my own rice paddy
我田引水 (ga den in sui) is a Japanese idiom that means to do or say something for your own benefit. You’re giving yourself advice, even though you’re the only one who needs it.
To walk around hot porridge
Chodit kolem horké kaše is a Czech phrase similar to the English idiom “ beat around the bush.” “To walk around hot porridge” means to avoid a difficult topic and make up distractions in order to avoid discussing it.
He who doesn’t have a dog hunts with a cat
Quem não tem cão, caça com gato is a Portuguese saying that suggests one should use what’s available and make the best of it. To be fair, cats are excellent hunters, even if they have a mind of their own.
The carrots are cooked Les carottes sont cuites comes from French, and it means you can’t change the situation. It’s too late, and you probably have mushy carrots.
Drawing a snake with feet
If you’re drawing a snake with feet, those are unnecessary body parts and you’re putting way more effort into that picture than necessary. 画蛇添足 (Huà shé tiān zú) is a Chinese idiom that means doing excess work can become redundant.
To talk a dog out of a bush
Someone who can convince a dog to get out of a bush when they’re going after a scent must have excellent persuasion skills. ń Hond uit ń bos gesels describes having a great conversation (with people) in Afrikaans. Being a good conversationalist is just as valuable a skill as talking to dogs.
Not my circus, not my monkeys
Nie m ó j cyrk, nie moje małpy is a Polish idiom that has been adopted into English, too. If the circus and monkeys aren’t yours, then they’re not your problem.
He sold him for an onion peel بايعها بقشرة بصلة ( baa ’ hu beqishra basala ) is the Arabic equivalent of the “ I’d sell you out for one corn chip” meme. It describes throwing away a relationship for nothing. Frankly, a corn chip is preferable to an onion peel.
To not have hairs on your tongue
No tener pelos en la lengua is a Spanish phrase that means to speak your mind straightforwardly. (Not to avoid hairballs.)
Train go sorry
Even sign language has idioms. Signed in ASL, “train go sorry” means “sorry, you’re too late” or “sorry, I can’t repeat that.” It’s kind of like when people say in English, “You missed the boat on that one.”
To hurl a cap टोपी
(toh-pee uh-chhahl-nah) is a Hindi idiom that references criticizing someone. Why stop at hurling insults when there are caps to be thrown?
If you’re near ink, you’ll get black. If you’re near a light, you’ll get bright.
Gần mực thì đen gần đèn thì sáng is a Vietnamese phrase that means you can tell a lot about someone by the company they keep. Some idiom translations are universal.
Featured image credit: freemixer/ iStock https://wordsmarts.com/foreign-idioms/
ONLINE SEARCH RESULTS
CAN BE DANGEROUS
Online search results can offer significant benefits to consumers, helping people find what they’re looking for. But online search results are also used by scammers to steer you in the wrong direction. In fact, scammers sometimes use paid search results to trick you. They might use another company’s name, include the name of a government service, or use misleading tag lines to make you think you’re dealing with someone else. They might even put their number alongside a trusted company’s name or link to a website that looks o$cial to steer you away from the business or government agency you were looking for. Their goal is to get your money or your personal or financial information to steal your identity.
Here’s how to avoid a search result scam:
• Know that the rst search results you see might be paid ads. They show up based on what you search and may or may not be what you’re looking for.
• Don’t assume the phone number that comes up in search is legit. You could be calling a scammer or dishonest business who doesn’t want you to know you’re in the wrong place. To make sure you’re dealing with who you think you are, scroll to the unpaid search results to make sure you have the right website or contact info for a business or government agency.
• Type a company’s website address directly into your browser if you know it. If you’re paying a bill, type in the address or call the number from your bill directly.
Learn more about impersonator scams at ftc.gov/ impersonators. If you spot an impersonator scam, tell the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
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
Bose Smart Soundbar 600, brand new, never opened in its original box, for sale $319. Please contact Aramis at 239-860-2071 (Expires 7/25)
2022 Advance EV 2 seat golf cart. Standard features include cooler, ball and club washer, seat belts, 2 sand bottles and USB plug. Upgrades include sound bar with Bluetooth, floor mat, club rain cover, and front tray for golf balls, phones and extra drink holders. Brand new front tires. Top speed is 26mph. Asking $5999. Text Jack at 513-205-0037 (Expires 7/25)
FREE replacement equipment supplies for a Philips Respironics Dream Station CPAP machine: 1 water tank, 1 head piece with mask,1 tubing and 7 masks size L. Contact Sue Lowney at 636-577-3444 (Expires 7/25)
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)
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 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
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.
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 239-495-6862
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