Gateway MAY 2026

The Club At Gateway

The watercolor painting class was a tremendous success, thanks to the dedication and talent of our instructor, Ann Downs. With many years of teaching experience, Ann made what can often feel like a challenging art form approachable and enjoyable for everyone. Each Monday, she arrived thoroughly prepared, offering

a variety of creative options for participants to explore in their paintings. Her thoughtful planning and passion for teaching were evident in every session. As the final class wrapped up this past Monday, many participants expressed that they weren’t quite ready for it to end—a true testament to the inspiring and engaging experience she created.

HOLE-IN-ONES

Congratulations to Richard Moake, Mark Hemming & Cathy Scott for their Hole-in-Ones in March.

Travis Raque Director of Racquets at The Club at Gateway

QUICK TIP: MASTERING TOUCH IN TENNIS AND PICKLEBALL

In both tennis and pickleball, power isn’t everything—touch makes the difference. Developing soft hands allows you to control placement, create unexpected shots, and win more points with finesse.

– Focus on Feel: Practice gentle taps at the net to improve your control. In pickleball, this means working on your dinks. In tennis, try soft drop volleys.

– Relax Your Grip: A looser grip absorbs impact and keeps your shots from flying long. Let your paddle or racquet do the work.

– Use the Whole Court: Good touch isn’t just about slowing the ball down—it’s about precision. Aim for open spaces and angle your shots to keep opponents running.

The Club at Gateway tennis and pickleball programs are a great place to start. Become a member today and start building new skills through direction led by USPTA Professional Tennis and Pickleball instructors. For more information on membership call the club to find out how to join.

MARY MARGARET

Director of Fitness at The Club at Gateway

FITNESS NEWS

Exercise. I get it. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea. It’s not always my cup of tea. But our bodies are built to move. And that movement doesn’t have to be complicated. Americans on average spend more than half our waking hours sitting, watching TV, reading, driving, desk jobs, just to name a few. We’ve outlined several very small ways to change the cycle and add more movement to our lives.

It’s one simple habit that pays off at every stage of life, it’s movement. Not intense, sweat-dripping workouts (though those have their place), but the small, consistent ways we keep our bodies in motion throughout the day. Think of movement as your built-in “feel better” button—it boosts energy, improves mood, supports joint health, and plays a huge role in longevity. The best part? It doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming to make a meaningful difference.

Start by sprinkling movement into the moments you already have. Waiting for your coffee to brew? Do a few squats or calf raises. On a phone call? Stand up and pace instead of sitting. Even something as simple as parking a little farther away or taking the stairs can add up over time. These “movement snacks” may seem small, but they keep your body engaged and help break up long periods of sitting, which is key for overall health.

Another easy win is to turn daily routines into mini workouts. Household chores like vacuuming, gardening, or even unloading groceries can double as functional fitness. Put on your favorite music and suddenly cleaning becomes a dance session. Walking is another underrated

powerhouse—whether it’s a quick stroll after meals or a longer walk with a friend, it supports heart health, digestion, and mental clarity all at once.

If you enjoy a little structure, consider setting gentle reminders to move throughout the day. A quick stretch break every hour or a short walk around the block can do wonders for your posture and energy levels. And don’t forget about social movement—group classes, walking clubs, or even meeting a friend for an active catchup can make movement feel less like a task and more like something you look forward to.

At the end of the day, movement is less about perfection and more about consistency. Our bodies are designed to move, and the more we honor that, the better we tend to feel—both now and in the years ahead. By finding small, enjoyable ways to stay active each day, you’re investing in your health, your independence, and your longevity… all while keeping things light, fun, and completely doable.

Now let’s all get moving!!

sports for the

of one for children ages 5-12

WK 1: June 15 - 19 WK 2: July 13 - 17 WK 3: July 27 - 31

8am - 11am

Member $225* Non-Member *Fee is priced per child, per week and must be paid upon registration for each individual week.

Summer 2026

Registration

*Check boxes to make your selections

Childs Name + Age:

Parents Name:

Phone Number:

Address:

Email:

Member Number:

WK 1: June 15 - 19

WK 2: July 13 - 17

WK 3: July 27 - 31

Two sports for the price of one.

Non-Member Method of Payment: Check Credit Card

*Rain or shine - No refunds

Release Form

My child, , has permission to participate fully in this program I authorize representatives of The Club at Gateway to arrange any necessary emergency medical treatment in the event neither I nor the emergency contact person named below can be reached. I also authorize representatives of The Club at Gateway use of photographs, slides and videos taken of my child during this program for promotional and educational purposes. I hereby release The Club at Gateway and its staff from any liability which could result from injuries received while participating in the 2026 Summer Camp In the event of an emergency, the following person is authorized to act on my behalf if I cannot be reached.

Name & Relationship:

Phone Number:

Any Known Allergies?

Signature:

Emergency Contact Information

Date:

SUMMER JUNIOR GOLF CAMP

The Club At Gateway

Half Day Camps (9am-12pm)

All Skill Levels

Ages 5-12

CAMP #1 : JUNE 16TH-19TH

CAMP #2 : JUNE 23RD-26TH

CAMP #3 : JULY 7TH-10TH

CAMP #4 : JULY 14TH-17TH

CAMP #5 : JULY 21ST-24TH

*LUNCH INCLUDED DAILY

Please contact Michael Dodson, PGA Head Golf Professional for more information at golfshop@gatewaygcc.com

PRICING

Per Child Member $300

Non Member $400

Continental Women’s Club

LIZ PAUL

The Continental Women’s Club will hold its monthly luncheon meeting on Thursday, June 11 starting at 11:30 a.m. Our June program will feature a unique presentation of the funny relatable stories of Jeanne Robertson. Ms. Robertson was an award-winning humorist from North Carolina. Her “southern English” added to stories about her “left brain” husband and her many experiences as Miss North Carolina and then Miss Congeniality in the Miss America pageant.

The meetings are being held at The Hideaway Country Club, 5670 Trailwinds Drive, Fort Myers 33907. The cost to attend

the luncheon is $28.  Please call Liz Paul at (239) 691-7561 by Tuesday, June 2 for meal selection and to make a reservation.

Continental Women’s Club is a social, cultural, and philanthropic organization established in 1975, with membership open to women living in Lee County. We have many special events and interest groups within our Club that you can participate in for social and educational purposes throughout the month and the year. In addition, we contribute to many local charities and award two scholarships each year to senior high school girls who plan on furthering their education.

Gateway Women’s Club

DONNA MARCHETTI, JANICE EATON, FRAN YUNGHER, LAUREL BORGIA, AND LEYNA HOFFER

CYNTHIA PERTHUIS, OWNER, SENIOR CARE

AUTHORITY OF SWFL; CSA, CDP, CADDCT STEPHANIE MENA

Cynthia Perthuis recently addressed the Gateway Women’s Club. She is a Senior Care Authority who spoke on Healthy Living for Brain and Body. Studies show that up to 45% of dementia cases, including those caused by Alzheimer’s disease, may be prevented or delayed by making changes to certain habits. Brain-healthy habits include staying physically active, making good dietary choices, remaining engaged and consistently practicing activities that exercise your brain.

GWC PRESIDENT CHARLOTTE

STEWART WITH SPEAKER CYNTHIA PERTHIUS

Ms. Perthuis is a Certified Dementia Practitioner, senior care strategist, and owner of Senior Care Authority of Southwest Florida. She works with people all over the country and is frequently called on by the Alzheimer’s Association to speak about how healthy habits can promote healthy brains. Brain changes can start 20 years or more before symptoms of dementia are experienced. Dementia is not a normal part of aging.

New research shows that simple lifestyle changes can help delay cognitive decline and even Alzheimer’s symptoms-especially for those at genetic risk. Positive everyday actions can make a difference in brain health. The U.S. Pointer Study along with the Alzheimer’s Association is a landmark 2-year clinical trial. It is the first large-scale randomized controlled trial of its kind in the U. S. The Pointer Study showed a structured healthy lifestyle program combined with exercise, a healthy diet, cognitive engagement and health monitoring can protect cognitive function. Heart health and brain health are closely connected. The heart pumps blood to the brain. The blood provides oxygen and other nutrients to nourish the brain. What’s good for our hearts is good for our brains.

Ms. Perthuis challenged everyone to take charge of your brain health. These habits, and others, can lower the risk of developing cognitive decline and possibly dementia. Four things to do starting today: 1.) Eat

vegetables 2.) Make a lot of friends 3.) Play outside – exercise. 4.) Continue learning – find something different than what you are doing today. Challenge your mind by trying strategy games, puzzles, learning a new language or exploring a new hobby. Seven to nine hours of quality sleep is important. Keep safety in mind. Organize your living space to minimize the risk of falling. Wear protective headgear when appropriate, be smoke-free, monitor and control your blood pressure.

To contact Cynthia Perthuis, CSA, CDP, CADDCT directly, log on to www. scanyfl.com. For additional information, you may also visit Alzheimer’s Association website: alz.org

BOOK CLUB

BARBARA HANLIN

Book Club meets on Tuesday, May 12th at 7:00 pm. Kathy Fabisiak will be the hostess with Kathy Mullane as co-hostess. Gateway Women’s Club will feature the author, Mary Ambrose McLaughlin, who wrote “The Lost Dresses of Italy ” as their speaker on June 17th . Book Club plans to read and discuss her book at their May meeting. Mary Anderson is the discussion leader. Kathy’s contact information is located in the Women’s Club Directory.

This historical novel takes place in Verona, Italy. It’s about “Intertwining stories of two women, nearly a century apart, unraveling mysteries surrounding Victorian dresses and a stolen book in post-war Verona, Italy.”

Please contact Barb Hanlin or Laurel Borgia with any questions. Their information is also in the directory.

ADOPT-A-MANGROVE PROJECT UPDATE!

DEB STEPHANO

At the Gateway Women’s Club last August, Skye MacDonald of Sanibel Captiva Coastal Watch Foundation (SCCWF), and our August speaker, brought approximately 90 mangrove seedlings (called propagules) for adoption by the GWC and Gateway Girlfriends. Participants’ job would be to watch over the seedlings either indoors or outdoors and ensure they receive sun and water. These seedlings were plucked from the Gulf, and so it was impossible to tell if they would survive and grow!

SKYE MACDONALD

OF SANIBEL CAPTIVA COASTAL WATCH FOUNDATION (SCCWF)

A SAMPLING OF THE ADOPTED MANGROVES

The plan was for Skye to return in the spring to pick up the “adopted” mangroves and she did at this past March meeting. Members had the option to continue to hold on to them for another 6 months if they chose. About half of the plants were returned, and other members kept theirs. SCCF will continue to care for the ones that were returned to them until they get planted in their forever home in a restoration site.

Skye will return in the fall to pick up these remaining plants. She’s offered to bring more plants for anyone interested in continuing with the program. SCCWF is a non-profit. Visit them at https://sccf.org/

SEEDLINGS HANDED OUT TO INTERESTED GWC MEMBERS

BE PLANTED BACK TO THE WILD

BRIDGE

LAUREL BORGIA

Bridge 101 will meet on Tuesday, May 5th and Tuesday, May 19th at 9:30 AM at the Hampton Park Amenity Center. There is no fee; everyone who wants to learn or enjoys playing bridge is welcome. This is a lowkey, fun-loving group!

Contact: Susie Kravetz (her info is in the directory). Email or call her if you are attending so she can give your name to the gate.

SIT AND STITCH

KATHRYN FABISIAK

The next Sit and Stitch meeting will be hosted by Kathy Fabisiak on May 11th at 1:00 pm. Please contact Kathy if you plan to attend. Her information can be found in the GWC directory. Call or email her if you plan to attend for gate access. The group includes many GWC members working on different projects. The members continue to work on projects for hospice and scarves for collegeattending students who were in foster care. Any GWC member is welcome to join.

CHARITABLE GIVING & FUNDRAISING EVENTS

EVENT #1: FORD’S GARAGE

SUSAN ROBERTS

Gateway Women’s Club and Ford’s Garage recently teamed up to support A.N.A.’s Friends. The numbers are in, and the results are nothing short of highoctane! While our record-breaking crowd of 48 enjoyed a fantastic dinner at Ford’s Garage in Miromar Outlets, the true success of the day was measured in the charitable impact of the evening. Thanks to an incredible partnership with the Ford’s Garage team, our monthly Dining Out event translated into a significant contribution to A.N.A.’s Friends, GWC’s chosen charity for the year.

Ford’s Garage made the entire process seamless, handling the logistics with ease. But what made this fundraiser truly special was the incredible generosity of Ford’s Garage. They didn’t just donate 15% of the sales from our dining group; they extended that contribution to any patron who mentioned the Gateway Women’s Club throughout the entire day. Whether it was a quick lunch, a takeout order, or a mid-afternoon snack, every mention of GWC helped fuel the mission of A.N.A.’s Friends.

The funds raised will go directly toward supporting the vital work of A.N.A.’s

Friends, an organization dedicated to providing a safe, supervised, and nurturing environment for children and families navigating difficult circumstances. Seeing our community come together to support such a meaningful cause is a powerful reminder of what the Gateway Women’s Club is all about.

This successful event is just one of many “stops” on the road ahead for the GWC 2026 fundraising calendar. The Gateway Women’s Club remains committed to finding creative and engaging ways to support our community partners.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who dined out, spread the word, and helped us turn a Monday meal into a milestone of giving!

EVENT #2: SNAPPERS COMEDY CLUB DIANE SARFIELD

More than 50 members and guests of the Gateway Women’s Club recently enjoyed a fun-filled night at Snappers Comedy Club located on Winkler Ave. in Fort Myers. The Comedy Club has quite a variety of comedians

and this year they chose the headline comedian, R. C. Smith, for their fundraising event. He has a monologue that focuses on audience participation and keeps the audience laughing and engaged. This annual event is just one of the fundraisers that the Women’s Club holds that benefits a charity chosen by the Club at the beginning of each year. This year, the Club supports A.N.A.’s Friends, an organization that supports neglected children in SW Florida. For more information about this non-profit organization, their website is www. anasfriends.org and they are also on Facebook, ANAsFriendsSWFL. Truly a worthy cause.

DINING OUT

SUSAN ROBERTS

With engines roaring and hearts soaring, Gateway Women’s Club recently had a record-breaking night at Ford’s Garage at Miromar Outlets in Estero. The night out was anything but a typical Monday mundane routine. Gateway Women’s Club didn’t just go out for dinner-we staged a full-throttle takeover of Ford’s Garage!

The atmosphere was electric as we shattered our previous records, welcoming a staggering 48 attendees. The sea of familiar faces included our dedicated members, supportive spouses, and invited guests, all gathered under the restaurant’s themed decor of vintage gas pumps and Model Ts.

In true 1920s service station style, Ford’s Garage was ready to serve. Our massive group put the Ford’s Garage kitchen to the ultimate test, and they

delivered. The menu hit on all cylinders providing classic American comfort such as gourmet burgers, perfectly seared salmon, and fan favorites of their legendary, gooey French onion soup to crispy fish and chips. No one left with an empty tank.

While the laughter was loud and the fellowship was warm, there was a powerful motivation behind our record-breaking turnout. As we filled our bellies, our Charitable Giving Committee was hard at work behind the scenes. The evening wasn’t just about the burgers; it was about a 15% donation that Ford’s Garage generously pledged from our proceeds to A.N.A.’s Friends. Knowing that every bite contributed to such a vital cause turned a great meal into a meaningful mission. The evening proved that when GWC shows up, we show up big—for each other and for our community. (For a deeper dive into how our recordbreaking night impacted our chosen

charity, be sure to check out the news piece in the Charitable Giving Committee Section of this Publication.)

As the night wound down among the chrome and nostalgia of SWFL’s favorite garage, the sentiment was unanimous: the food was fantastic, but the company and the cause were what made the evening truly unforgettable.

The Spot For Gateway Greens

KEEPING GATEWAY GREENS ROADS AND SIDEWALKS SAFE AND CLEAN!

The roads and sidewalks within Gateway Greens are ours to maintain, and the HOA Board has the responsibility to ensure that all walkways remain safe and clean for residents who use them for walking, dog walking, and other daily activities. Sidewalks on Gateway Greens and Championship Drive are constructed of concrete, while the sidewalk along Westlinks Drive is asphalt.

Common trip hazards include tree roots—particularly from oak trees—that can lift concrete sidewalk panels and create uneven surfaces. These roots can also impact asphalt walkways. In addition, cracks and depressions may develop over time due to landscaping equipment traveling over sidewalk surfaces, which can further contribute to tripping hazards.

In 2025, sidewalk repairs were completed on Championship Drive and Gateway Greens, with particular attention given to identified trip hazards. Work involving excavation and tree root removal on the Westlinks Drive sidewalk took place between January and March 2026, and this project has now been successfully completed.

Residents have been notified of upcoming road resurfacing projects scheduled for the summer and fall of 2026. The following roads are planned for rehabilitation:

• Callaway Greens Drive and Court

• Mahogany Run, from the Waden Lakes entrance to the cul-de-sac

• Mahogany Run (north and south cul-de-sacs)

• Walden Run

• Venicia Drive

• Lake Run Drive

• Hampton Greens Court and Drive

• Championship Drive (one section)

The Gateway Greens Board of Governors remains committed to maintaining community property, including roads, sidewalks, access control buildings, fences, and walls. Residents in areas where road work is scheduled are asked to remain alert for construction equipment and personnel as these improvements are completed for the benefit of the community.

The Spot For Gateway Greens

DISCOVER HIDDEN LINKS: A CLOSEKNIT ENCLAVE IN GATEWAY GREENS

Tucked quietly behind its own private gate, Hidden Links is one of Gateway Greens’ most charming and understated residential neighborhoods. Designed for those who value both privacy and connection, this intimate culdesac community offers a distinctive lifestyle rooted in neighborly spirit, natural beauty, and everyday comfort.

Hidden Links consists of both 50 singlefamily and 48 condominium homes, giving it a scale that feels personal and welcoming rather than crowded. Together, they form the Hidden Links Master Association, which maintains shared amenities such as a community pool, spa, and restroom facilities, providing residents with well-kept spaces for relaxation and recreation.

Many of the homes enjoy scenic views of the Gateway Country Club golf course, overlooking holes 15 and 16, while others are perfectly positioned along a tranquil pond, offering serene water views and peaceful surroundings. Whether you prefer watching golfers in the distance or enjoying the calming presence of nature, Hidden Links delivers a setting that feels removed from the bustle—yet still connected.

Like many of the Gateway Greens neighborhoods, it’s the people that matter most. This is a neighborhood where residents genuinely know one another – including other’s dogs! It’s not uncommon to see residents walking the community throughout the day, stopping to chat with each

other, calling out to those working in their garages or in their yards, and generally just enjoying each other. Over time, these connections grow strong enough that some residents have invited close friends or family members to purchase homes nearby – perhaps the highest compliment a neighborhood can receive.

In a region known for beautiful communities, Hidden Links stands out for its balance of privacy, beauty, and true community connection. For those who appreciate a quiet setting without sacrificing social warmth, this hidden gem within Gateway Greens lives up to its name – and then some.

INTRODUCING INTOUCHLINK TO GATEWAY GREENS

The Gateway Greens Homeowners Association will soon be providing residents with a new central communication hub for the Gateway Greens community – whether they are full-time or part-time residents, and no matter where they live in North America. This innovative community portal will make it easier than ever for residents to stay informed, connected, and engaged with everything happening in the neighborhood and beyond.

Soon, residents will have access to the InTouchLink app on their phone, tablet, or smart TV, allowing them to conveniently view community information anytime – day or night. From important announcements to upcoming events, everything will be available with just a few clicks or even voice prompts!

Designed specifically for gated communities, InTouchLink enhances communication between residents, the Board of Governors, community staff, and the management company. Key features

include community news and updates, a calendar of meetings and events, local weather conditions and forecasts, and highlights of community activities. Together, these tools help foster a stronger sense of connection and ensure everyone stays informed and involved in daily community life.

The full details on how to access and download the InTouchLink app will be presented at the upcoming Board of Governors meeting and communicated via email to all residents soon after. This new, userfriendly platform designed with customized content for Gateway Greens will enhance community connections.

The Spot For Gateway Greens

MEET ALLEN BOVA: THE HOA PRESIDENT WHO BUILDS COMMUNITY ONE NEIGHBOR AT A TIME

If you spend any time at all out and about in the Hidden Links neighborhood of Gateway Greens, chances are you’ve crossed paths with Allen Bova, the President of the Hidden Links Neighborhood Association. And if you haven’t, you probably will. Whether it’s a question about the HOA, a neighborly dilemma, or even a stubborn internet problem, Allen has quietly become the community’s unofficial go-to resource. And he does it all with a mix of humility, humor, and genuine care that makes leadership feel refreshingly human.

Allen’s journey to Gateway Greens started in Northern New York, where he grew up along the majestic St. Lawrence River – where water skiing, swimming and fishing were simply part of everyday life. He describes himself as a “river rat,” and though he never competed, (he proudly recalls being able to skim his elbow across the water during sharp cuts), his love for the outdoors remains strong.

Before retiring to Florida, Allen spent much of his professional life in upstate New York, including a notable tenure at Cornell University as Director of Risk Management and Insurance. It was a role that made him widely known across campus by students and faculty alike. As Allen tells it, nearly every student initiative had to pass through his office, and while that might sound bureaucratic, students recognized how deeply he cared. So much so that they once put through a citation in his honor. Not bad for the guy tasked with saying “let’s think this through.”

FROM FINANCE TO FRONT PORCH LEADERSHIP

So how does a background in finance and higher-education risk management lead to becoming HOA President? For Allen, the answer is simple: community service.

After purchasing their home in Hidden Links in 2010 and moving in full-time in 2011, Allen didn’t rush into leadership. He started as Treasurer, learning the rhythms and personalities of the neighborhood. Over time, his desire to help – combined with a knack for understanding complex structures (Hidden Links Condo members are also members of Hidden Links Neighborhood Association while also members of Gateway Greens Master HOA) – made him a natural fit for the presidency.

“I felt like I could play a positive role,” Allen says, almost casually. But behind that understatement is a leadership philosophy shaped by decades of experience: delegate responsibility, reward good work, and treat every question as an opportunity to educate.

He knows how to laugh at himself, readily admitting to being something of an “absent-minded professor.” In fact, Allen credits his wife Sue (with a smile) as the person who keeps him on track now that

he no longer has a secretary. “She reminds me of everything,” he jokes.

TURNING NEIGHBORS INTO A COMMUNITY

Ask Allen what he likes best about Gateway Greens, and his answer comes without hesitation: the people. These interviews with the different neighborhood associations continue to portray this common theme!

However, that wasn’t always the case. When he first arrived, the neighborhood was dealing with vacant homes, foreclosures, and tensions that made things feel, at times, unsettling. But Allen believes strongly that when people know one another, friendliness replaces friction – and problems often resolve themselves.

Today, he sees a community that’s found its footing, and he’s proud of the role he’s played in that transformation. His faith and involvement with his church fuel his passion for fostering connection, compassion, and collaboration wherever he lives.

LIFE BEYOND THE BOARD

When Allen isn’t working on HOA matters, you’ll likely find him and Sue exploring Florida’s state parks in their small travel trailer. From Oscar Scherer State Park (a favorite close to home) to extended trips back north to New York and Canada, the outdoors remains

a central joy. Bike paths, camping, and changing scenery are his idea of a perfect reset.

Travel also feeds Allen’s deep interest in ancestry. He can trace his family line back to early Puritan settlers in 1630s Connecticut – and even to some of the first European women on the North American continent! That love of history explains his excitement about an upcoming Viking River cruise from Zurich to Paris, where he’ll quite literally walk where his ancestors once did.

Despite all this traveling, Allen remains grounded in routine pleasures. Fridays often mean breakfast out with his ROMEO club (Retired Old Men Eating Out— named, he notes, by someone else). Reading comes in spurts, mostly fiction, with authors like Clive Cussler making regular appearances. Music? That’s mostly reserved for car rides.

A LEADER WITH HUMOR HEART

When asked what qualities he admires most in others, Allen answers quickly: intelligence (with a laugh), humility, and faith. Those same traits define how others describe him, along with approachable, thoughtful, and endlessly helpful.

Allen may shy away from calling attention to himself, but there’s no doubt about the impact he’s made. In a role that can sometimes feel thankless, he leads with empathy, patience, and a steady sense of humor. In short, Allen Bova isn’t just the President of the HOA. He’s a neighbor, a teacher, a problem-solver, and a reminder that strong communities grow best when guided by people who truly care.

The Spot For Gateway Greens

LANDSCAPING AND MAINTENANCE UPDATES

Keeping the Gateway Greens community spaces in great shape is a top priority, and the recent landscaping efforts highlight the dedication to making these areas beautiful and welcoming for everyone. Here’s a look at the key activities that have been completed or are currently underway.

WHAT’S CHANGED LATELY?

Over the past couple of months, GreatView Lawn Care has been busy making several landscape enhancements throughout the community, including beautiful upgrades along the Westlinks common areas. These improvements have refreshed the overall look of the property, boosted plant health, and created a polished, cohesive appearance that everyone in the neighborhood can enjoy.

The annual flowers at all monument entrances continue to flourish and thrive, truly stealing the show – adding vibrant pops of color and elevating the community’s curb appeal. Take a look at some representative photos to see some of these improvements!

LOOKING AHEAD

As we head into the summer growing season, we’re excited to transition to weekly mowing beginning in April, keeping our turf looking lush, clean and healthy.

In addition to these improvements, the team remains fully committed to the regular care of all common areas, ensuring the community stays beautifully manicured and inviting. We are closely monitoring the irrigation system to promote consistent and efficient watering throughout the property.

With continued seasonal enhancements and attentive maintenance, we look forward to keeping the community looking its absolute best all year long.

A GUIDE TO PREPPING YOUR HOME FOR THE OFFSEASON

Whether you are heading off for a long summer or an extended getaway, leaving your home unattended requires more than just locking the front door. Simple preparation can prevent costly damage, discourage intruders, and make your return stress free.

PRO TIP: USE A HOME WATCH SERVICE OR TRUSTED CONTACT

Even the best preparation can’t replace regular checkins. Ask a trusted neighbor, friend, or home watch service to inspect your home every week or two. They should look for leaks, remove flyers, and confirm systems like the AC are running properly.

Important: Make sure your email and phone number are up to date with the HOA so you can be reached if needed.

OFFSEASON HOME PREPARATION CHECKLIST

1. Plumbing & Water Systems and HVAC & Climate Control

• Shut off the main water valve to prevent flooding.

• Drain the lines by opening all faucets and emptying the icemaker.

• If you can’t shut off the main valve, close shutoff valves for appliances and toilets.

• Replace HVAC filters and service the system before leaving.

• Keep indoor humidity between 45%–55% (over 60% encourages mold).

• Set the thermostat between 76°F–78°F and never above 80°F.

• Set the fan to “Auto”, not “On,” to prevent moisture buildup.

• Consider a smart thermostat or WiFi humidity sensor for remote monitoring and alerts.

2. Interior Housekeeping

• Remove all perishable food and empty every trash bin.

• Do not leave pantry items in open containers.

• Open closet and cabinet doors to improve airflow.

• Clean surfaces and vacuum.

• Add water or trap sealant to floor drains and rarely used sinks to block sewer gases.

• Make it look like “someone is home.”

• Use timers or smart plugs to vary lighting schedules.

• Place mail on hold with USPS and stop deliveries.

• Lock all doors and windows, including garage and side entrances.

• Consider unplugging electronic garage door openers.

• Use doorbell cameras or motion sensors for realtime alerts.

3. Exterior Maintenance

• Arrange lawn or landscape maintenance.

• Clear gutters to ensure proper drainage.

• Store or secure outdoor furniture, grills, and décor.

• Note new HOA requirements for hurricane shutter protection, i.e., back and sides but not the front unless a named storm has been made.

The Spot For Gateway Greens

MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS

You’ve probably heard the saying, “opposites attract”—and Steve Froeschl and Patrick Borowicz are proof that it really works!

This fun-loving pair from Hidden Links bring great energy, strong values, and a genuine connection to our community. Even more impressive is they have been together 16 years and married for 11 years. They hit it off right away after meeting through mutual friends, and their teamwork was clear from the very beginning—even on their first date. Steve invited Patrick over for dinner (despite not loving to cook), and when things didn’t quite turn out as planned, Patrick jumped in and made it better. That pretty much set the tone! These days, Steve takes care of the outdoor projects and finances, while Patrick shines in the kitchen and with decorating their stylish home.

Both Steve and Patrick come from small towns and big families—seven kids each— but from different generations. Steve, the youngest, grew up in Nebraska in a family that makes hand tools for companies like Craftsman and Stanley. Fun fact: his grandfather invented the angel nose channel-lock plier! Steve also loves music and once took time off from St. John’s University

in Minnesota to tour Europe with Up with People, a group that brings people together through music and service.

Patrick, the oldest in his family, grew up in a tiny northern Minnesota town with just 740 people—and only 23 kids in his class! He spent his younger years enjoying horses, swimming, and small-town life. His dad worked as a carpenter and also owned a few local businesses, while his mom was a hairdresser. Patrick originally pursued cosmetology and taught at the AVEDA institute in Minneapolis but pursued his true calling in healthcare, and is now celebrating 36 years in nursing helping others live healthier lives.

When it came time to move, Steve and Patrick didn’t hesitate—they chose their home in Gateway in just one day in 2017! It checked all their boxes: a smaller neighborhood (Hidden Links has about 50 homes), a community pool, great layout, and even a southfacing home with beautiful architectural details. And yes—being close to a 24-hour 7-Eleven didn’t hurt!

If you’ve been to their annual “Goodbye Snowbirds” party in March, you already know how welcoming they are. About 65 neighbors come together each year, with Steve grilling pulled pork and Patrick handling everything inside. They also enjoy dining at the Club and have become familiar faces around town at spots like Saucy Meatballs, Skinny Dogz, Prawnbroker, Connors, Cooper’s Hawk and University Grill.

When they’re not socializing, they love traveling, spending time at the beach, and enjoying the arts. Steve has a pilot’s license so they jaunt to Orlando, Venice, Key West, and other fun locations. Sometimes they fly just for lunch! They are regulars at Barbara B. Mann, Florida Reparatory Theater and even make trips to Sarasota for the opera. Now that Patrick is

NEW RESIDENT WELCOME PACKAGE

The Gateway Greens Community Association recently introduced a New Resident Welcome Package to help new neighbors feel informed, comfortable, and connected from day one. Whether they are brand new to the area, new to living in an HOA community, or simply looking for helpful reminders, this package is designed to make settling in easier and more enjoyable.

Inside the binder is a wide range of useful information, including:

• First Things First – a 2-page guide explaining how to access the community website and resident portal, where to find Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), how to use the gate access app, and important details such as trash and recycling pickup schedules.

• An overview of the HOA’s governing documents, with guidance on what they include and where to find the full versions.

• Local businesses in and around Gateway, including special coupons available to new residents.

recently retired, they’re looking forward to even more time for fun and adventure.

So next time you’re at the Club—especially on a Wednesday night—be sure to say hello. Steve and Patrick are part of what makes Gateway Greens such a special place to live!

• Community and nearby amenities, such as parks and trails, medical facilities, theaters, and sports venues.

Moving into a new community can feel overwhelming, and we understand that questions often come up – sometimes right away, and sometimes months later. For that reason, a member of the HOA board personally delivers this welcome binder to any resident who would like one. These visits provide an opportunity to say hello and answer questions ranging from “Where are you from?” to “What should I do if this happens?”

Most importantly, new (and current!) residents are encouraged to reach out to any HOA board member at any time, and not just with questions, but also just to introduce yourself and get to know one another. Building connections is a big part of what makes Gateway Greens such a special place to live.

Meeting neighbors is a truly rewarding experience, and it helps strengthen the welcoming, community-focused spirit that Gateway Greens is proud to claim.

Whispers Of God…

DR. MARK GONZALES, NATIONAL SOUL CARE DIRECTOR

ABWE GLOBAL MISSION AGENCY

C. A. R. TALK

For those of you who are auto enthusiasts, let me alert you that we are not going anywhere near that worthy topic! I will leave that to someone who is far more conversant than I am about that world. And God bless them!

The topic that is actually on my heart is a simple, but very powerful conversational sequence that can often prevent and even help heal any relational tension or breaches between you and your family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, relatives, and more. C.A.R. is simply an acrostic to help you remember the sequence I noticed a few years back in the structure of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5-7! Cool, huh? Not that I am suggesting you preach at people in one-on-one conversations, but the heart and sequence in which He shared when preaching then, can help us when we’re speaking with each other now. So, the three-part sequence starts with:

COMFORT.

Jesus opened His conversational message with these comforting words and many more like them in what we call the “Beatitudes.” “Blessed are the poor in spirit… Blessed are they who mourn….” He saw the heart wounds and hurts of the multitude that gathered that day – each one of them. He always sees us with eyes of compassion

short, and this is the best way to enter difficult conversations. Not with anger, bitterness, accusations, and blaming with guns blazing. Seeing and settling our own wounds first will help us see and appreciate the wounds in others as we prepare to talk with each other. We can begin with something like:

“Before we get started, may I just say that I’ve been thinking that we are both hurting pretty badly about what’s happened, and please know that I am so sorry about all this and truly hope we can take a few baby steps toward healing our relationship.”

Humility, hope, transparency and vulnerability can be a great start.

AFFIRMATION.

Next, Jesus affirmed people, saying: “You are the light of the world… you are the salt (or spice) of the earth.” In short, He was telling them that they were of great value! You matter. You are unique. You can make a difference. This is what people need to be reassured about in a difficult conversation. Maybe something like:

“Please know how much I appreciate you, your heart, and your intentions. You are important to me, and our relationship is worth the effort to reconcile.” Just be sure to share it as a genuine expression and hope that resolution is on the horizon. People can smell “butter-you-up” manipulation a mile away.” After this, then and only then, you can move to the:

REVEAL.

The third part of the Sermon on the Mount is when Jesus began saying things like: “You have heard it said, but I say to you…” They had many misconceptions and Jesus was gently revealing the misguided thoughts and leading them to look deeper. In our situation, we might say something like:

“So, you may be thinking … but I just want you to know…” Or “Can we compare notes and share hearts about our perceptions of what happened (or what was said or thought)?” Misperceptions and hasty assumptions can wreak havoc in a relationship, as can actual missteps, blind

spots, and emotional flare-ups. Having the courage to take the first few steps to have the humble and gentle conversation—aided by this sequence -- can make the reveal and discovery of the core issues emerge a little more readily and more powerfully!

I know this is brief, but I am praying it will be a good start in cultivating the art of heart level healing conversations in your lives, my friends. Life is too short to keep a long list of unresolved and unforgiven relationships. And the Lord is with you, especially when you are the one taking the first baby step of seeing your own part of the breach, and then the next baby step of starting a C.A.R. talk with those you really care about. You can do this. Good healthy results start with the first steps.

Taking baby steps with you, Pastor

Mark

Articles & radio archives: markpg.org Hear me every Sat., 8 a.m. on 91.5 FM Share comments at mark@quillpress.org.

What’s Blooming at Edison and Ford Winter Estates: Aralias

KAREN M. MAXWELL, INTERIM HORTICULTURE DIRECTOR

When contemplating a plant genus to write about, I tour the gardens at Edison and Ford Winter Estates with open eyes, looking for that specimen that does one of two things – catches your breath or blends into the landscape, hardly noticed. To me, the Aralias are the latter. As a historical garden, I always attempt to find the significance of that specimen and tie it back to the Edisons’ or Fords’ botanical legacy.

Sometimes, this is easier said than done. In 2002, the City of Fort Myers prepared a Cultural Landscape Report (CLR), which took a deep dive into the plantings that were documented or otherwise known to exist during Edison’s time of ownership. Additionally, the report includes plants installed following the Edison years, that perhaps did not support an appropriate historical interpretation, and it concludes with recommendations for restoring the landscape accuracy as reasonably possible. At the same time, taxonomists around the world have been busy updating and reclassifying plant genera to reflect their access to new identification keys, including

DNA testing. In other words, when we read about the plants discussed in the CLR, all is not always as it appears.

As early as 1908, it was documented that Thomas Edison procured the Geranium Aralia, also referred to as Wild Coffee (not related to any genus of coffee plants) from the Reasoner Bros. nursery for analysis of its latex content. Today, this plant goes by the binomial name of Polyscias guilfoylei where the genus name means “many shaded.” This is a great border type plant, native to Africa, South and Central America, and Asia. Known as a “humidity hound,” it thrives in Southwest Florida summers and will shed many of its leaves when there is an insufficient humidity level. A varietal named P. guilfoylei ‘Victoriae’ won the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Merit for its strong variegation and ease of growth. Sometimes referred to as the Victoria Tree, it grows to 24 feet.

In 1931, Dr. Walter Buswell once identified Aralias as one of the plants growing close to Seminole Lodge. They were listed as aralia, ornamental aralia and in some cases, frosted aralia. A renowned botanist of his day, Dr. Buswell, was hired by the

Edisons to catalog their collection of tropical plants and at the same time he collaborated with the botanists involved with the Edison Botanic Research Corporation for rubber research. He was paid $25 a month for his work, and it seems that he was one of the first to suggest to Mina Edison that she consider creating a natural history museum in the garage from which he worked, which today is the ticket office and gift shop.

While the species is not mentioned, there is evidence that the Seminole Lodge aralias were Japanese or Queensland Umbrella Trees, Heptapleurum actinophylum. The Umbrella Tree is noted in a 1918 photograph capturing the wedding day of Charles Edison at Seminole Lodge. This would be consistent with the popularity of Japanese plants that captured the nursery industry in the 1920s. We still find them popping up in random spots in the gardens – especially in and around the bamboo stands, so it’s no wonder this plant ended up on the list of invasive species in Florida.

A later passage in the CLR describes the main gated entrance to the Edisons’ property as flanked by royal palms, a pair of silk oaks (Grevillia robusta), then a border of Aralia

lutescans. Unable to identify this “aralia” in popular references, my search took me further, leading only to more questions. It would seem, that the referenced border shrubs were either the once popular Umbrella Tree, today known as the invasive Schefflera (Heptapleurum actinophylum) or perhaps it was the attractive, Arboricola or Dwarf Japanese Schefflera (Heptapleurum arboricola), which is more suggestive of a shrub border, growing only to 10 feet or so and a very popular landscape shrub to this day.

P. GUILFOYLEI IS NATIVE TO AFRICA AND SOUTH AND CENTRAL AMERICA. IT CAN BE USED AS A BORDER.

Prior to 2000, but no longer in place, an elongated shrub border grew just inside the McGregor picket fence on the Edison property, comprised of a dense row of Dinnerplate Aralias and maintained at a height of four feet, coupled with a dense row of crotons that have all since been removed.

A stroll along the McGregor fenceline of the Ford home today, one will find a mixed border of tall shrubs, including the Guilfoyle’s Aralia (the so-called wild coffee) recognized by its coarse toothed leaves. If you are looking for an easy, limited maintenance hedge, this may be the answer. Growing to 12 feet, these narrow shrubs are not fussy about their soil, taking kindly to some pruning, are happy in full sun to some shade and generally pest free. Their only request? Please do not

let the roots sit in constantly wet soil.

Outside of the Moonlight Garden, one can find the P. scutellaria ‘Balfourii’ – a rounded leaf that is often variegated. There is also a white-edged variety known as P. balfourinana ‘marginata.’

Another easy to grow species of the genus Polyscias, P. fruticosa, has gone in and out of popularity as often as short skirts. Native to Indonesia, the Ming Aralia is a fabulous houseplant or bonsai candidate due to its lovely, lacy, and compact foliage, and its slow growth requiring a repot only once every two or three years.

‘BALFOURII’

CAN BE FOUND IN THE MOONLIGHT GARDEN AT THE ESTATES.

IS AN EASY TO GROW SPECIES FOR HOME GARDENS.

Reportedly, the young leaves are edible and sport a spicy, parsley like flavor and are eaten raw in Southeast Asian cuisine or dipped in sauce. Sometimes called the Ming Tree, this “aralia” only grows 12 inches in a dozen years but can ultimately grow to 10 feet or more. As with other species of this genus, it is relatively pest free,

HEPTAPLEURUM ACTINOPHYLLA IS ALSO KNOW AS THE UMBRELLA TREE; IT IS LISTED AS AN INVASIVE SPECIES IN FLORIDA.

loves humidity, its delicate leaves require bright (no direct) light, but will not tolerate wet feet or being overly watered. The plant may be mildly toxic to domestic pets. These plants do best with a regular monthly feeding of balanced fertilizer to maintain robust health.

To wrap it up, genus Aralia once included many other popular woodland species that thrive in the shady, moist gardens of Southwest Florida. The re-classification of many of these former “aralias” are now found in the genera Schefflera, Fatsia, Heptapleurum and Polyscias meaning none of the plants historically known as aralias in the Estates’ records, are now considered aralias at all.

Montage Women’s Club

The Montage Women’s Club is a social and philanthropic club open to all women residing in Lee County. We normally meet on the fourth Thursday of each month. Our May meeting will take place at the Hilton Garden Inn (Captiva Ballroom), 12600 University Drive, Fort Myers 33908, corner of College Parkway at the Summerlin Road overpass. Meetings begin at 11:30 a.m. with a short social period followed by lunch at Noon followed by an informative speaker program and a short business meeting. Within the organization are various interest groups for members’ participation. Membership is open to both year-round and seasonal residents. We welcome you to visit Montage for a luncheon.

Our next meeting will be held on Thursday, May 28. There will be no featured speaker this month but a special game day is planned. Additionally, there will be a formal installation ceremony for the new Montage Women’s Club Executive Board Members for 2026-2027.

Luncheon fee is $30 per person. The May regular entree will be pasta ala vodka sauce with meatballs, a side of steamed vegetables followed by Chef’s dessert choice. The vegan/plant-based entree will be vegan pasta primavera with roasted vegetables followed by fresh fruit for dessert.

If you would like to attend a Montage meeting, need further information, or would like to make a reservation, please call Rita Artwohl at (239) 7037787. Reservations cutoff to attend this meeting is noon, Thursday, May 21.

Coast Guard Auxiliary, Lee County Sheriff Jump Start National Safe Boating Week

The Wiggins Pass Flotilla of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary gave safe boating tips, and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office offered ice cream at a joint marine safety event on Ft. Myers Beach April 7th. The Flotilla displayed it communications trailer as the sheriff’s ice cream truck provided visitors sweet treats as an incentive to hear messages about water safety.

U.S. COAST GUARD AUXILIARY FLOTILLA COMMANDER

WALTER DELEVICH (INSIDE)

GREETS SHERIFF’S OFFICE OUTREACH COORDINATOR

BARRY KURTZ (OUTSIDE) AT THE LEE COUNTY MARINE SAFETY EVENT APRIL 7TH.

Auxiliary members also talked with members of the public about careers in the Coast Guard. National Safe Boating Week, sponsored by the U.S. Coast Guard and the National Safe Boating Council, will be observed locally and nationally from May 16 to May 22.

For more information, please contact Gregg Ramshaw of the Wiggins Pass Flotilla at gwramshaw@gmail.com or Robert Babezki, FSO-PA, at rbabezki@auxnaples96.org

Photos by Auxiliarist Robert Babezki

THE LEE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE ICE CREAM TRUCK (LEFT) AND THE U.S. COAST GUARD AUXILIARY WIGGINS PASS FLOTILLA’S COMMUNICATIONS TRAILER ON THE LOT OF THE LEE COUNTY SHERIFF’S LOCAL FACILITY ON FT. MYERS BEACH. ALSO SHOWN IS THE COMBINED TEAM OF AUXILIARY MEMBERS AND SHERRIFF’S OFFICE MEMBERS AT THIS EVENT.

Consumer Alerts

ROSARIO MÉNDEZ, ATTORNEY, DIVISION OF CONSUMER AND BUSINESS EDUCATION, FTC

TIMESHARES: YES? NO? MAYBE?

If you’re considering getting a timeshare this vacation season, read on. Maybe you got a flyer in the mail with pictures of sunny beaches and beautiful resort suites. Sounds great, right? But before you sign a timeshare contract, make sure you understand what you’re getting into — and how to get out of it.

Not all timeshares work the same way. Some use points to determine where you can stay and for how long. Others get you one week a year at a resort, but it’s not always the same week. The cost also varies … a lot. Typically, timeshares require you to pay initial fees and yearly maintenance fees that may increase every year.

Promoters might offer you a gift or delicious meal to attend a timeshare presentation. If you decide to go, the sales staff may make a lot of promises and pitches designed to get you to buy right then and there without giving you time to think about it or do any of your own research.

So before you sign that timeshare agreement, ask yourself a few questions:

• If the timeshare is only for a specific property, is this where I want to vacation every year?

• Can I afford this timeshare, even if the maintenance fees go up?

• Do I have the time to deal with issues that may arise if I can’t book the resort I want during the time I want to travel?

• If I no longer can afford or want the timeshare, how can I sell it?

And read Timeshares, Vacation Clubs, and Related Scams for more tips.