Grandezza MAR 2026 by Seabreeze Communications

Gazzette

Master POA Report

SARAH HARTMAN

By the time you read this in March, the very cold mornings in the 30s we experienced in early February should be a distant memory. Hopefully, you are enjoying great weather, lots of activities, and time with family and friends who may be visiting this Spring.

It has now been over a year since we transitioned to the new Gazette format, and we are very pleased with the readership results. Susan Sherwin, our Master Board Grandezza Director who manages the Communications Committee

and oversees publication of the Gazette, does an excellent job sourcing articles of interest and coordinating the submissions of the many individuals who contribute articles.

We recently had a meeting with our publisher, Seabreeze, and the readership numbers are great! For the January Gazette, there were 1,555 unique website visits and 2,376 page views, which are consistent with the average numbers we saw during the September to December timeframe. Of course, this includes some individuals who may visit the website more than once to read different articles. We hope you are enjoying the wide variety of articles and extend a thank you to all of you who contribute.

Our first monthly meeting of 2026 was held on Thursday, January 22 at 5 p.m. in the Clubhouse. Our financial position remains strong, and we finished 2025 with a 2% savings compared to the budgeted amount.

As previously mentioned, we executed new contracts with Xfinity/Comcast for Cable and Internet services and another with St. Moritz for Access Control. The new Comcast contract became effective January 1, 2026 and provides a significant savings to Grandezza residents.

A couple additional items from the meeting:

1.) We discussed our Neighborhood Watch program and previewed the new signage that will be installed in every neighborhood in the near future (including those Grandezza neighborhoods who don’t have signage today).

2.) You may have noticed the pedestrian gate which has been installed at the South (Maintenance) exit gate. Additional work remains and the communication regarding the usage will be shared with all residents once the multi-use path on Corkscrew has been completed and the construction crews have departed.

Don’t forget that detailed financial and meeting information may be found on grandezzamaster.com for those interested in seeing additional details of this meeting or prior meetings.

Our first Town Hall with the Sheriff’s Department was held on Tuesday, February 3 at 5 p.m. This was arranged by Director and Access Control and Safety Committee Chairman, Mike Patricelli, and Jeanne Basso, who leads our Neighborhood Watch Group. Lieutenant Frank Pisano and other members of the Sheriff’s Department addressed a variety of topics and answered many resident questions. We hope those who attended found the information valuable. I know I did!

All Guests And Vendors Must Be Registered

MIKE PATRICELLI, DIRECTOR, MPOA, ACCESS CONTROL AND COMMUNITY SAFETY

We recently provided instructions on the two simple methods available for pre-registering guests and vendors. Those instructions also may be found in this edition of the Grandezza Gazzette. Unfortunately, we continue to experience daily instances of unregistered visitors, which causes significant delays at the gatehouse—particularly when large vehicles are forced to use the resident lane.

Living in a restricted-access community requires vetting all visitors to ensure they are authorized to enter Grandezza. Please understand that when guests are not

registered in advance, it creates the very delays you experience. Gate officers are performing their required duties and are not intentionally delaying anyone.

Furthermore, recent reviews of gatehouse video recordings have shown unacceptable behavior by some residents, including verbal abuse, excessive horn blowing, and the intimidation of staff. This conduct is entirely inappropriate for our community.

Please ensure all guests are registered in advance and maintain a professional and respectful demeanor toward our gate personnel.

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 Neighborhood Watch

NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS STAY SAFE

For more than 20 years, the Grandezza Neighborhood Watch program has helped preserve the safety, and strong sense of community that residents value so highly. Established by long-time resident Al Meyer, the program was founded on a simple belief: when neighbors stay aware and look out for one another, everyone benefits.

Today, each of Grandezza’s twelve neighborhoods has a dedicated volunteer Neighborhood Watch Coordinator who serves as a local contact for residents and

helps promote awareness, communication, and cooperation throughout the community. These volunteers play an important role in ensuring that information flows quickly and that residents know how to respond if they observe unusual activity.

To further strengthen this important initiative, the Grandezza Master Board member Mike Patricelli recommended and the Board approved several enhancements. Jeanne Basso has been appointed as the Lead Neighborhood Watch Coordinator to provide coordination and leadership across all neighborhoods. In addition, new Neighborhood Watch signs are being

installed in each neighborhood to reinforce the message that Grandezza is an alert and engaged community committed to safety.

A well-attended Safety and Neighborhood Watch Town Hall meeting, held February 3 in partnership with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, provided residents with valuable information on recognizing suspicious activity, improving home security, and reporting concerns promptly. The strong participation demonstrated the community’s continued commitment to working together to maintain a safe living environment.

Neighborhood Watch is not about surveillance—it is about awareness, communication, and shared responsibility. Simple actions such as noticing unfamiliar

activity, ensuring homes are well lit, checking on neighbors who may be away, and promptly reporting suspicious situations can make a meaningful difference. By remembering the guiding principle “Look out for your neighbors— See Something, Say Something,” every resident contributes to keeping Grandezza safe and welcoming for all.

New Neighborhood Watch Sign

The new signage reminds residents and visitors that all suspicious persons and activities should be reported to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, reinforcing the “See Something, Say Something” message displayed on the signs.

COORDINATOR CONTACT BOX

Lead Neighborhood Watch Coordinator: Jeanne Basso – Saraceno

Neighborhood Coordinators:

• Avalon – Peggy Dempsey

• Cypress Cove A – Mike Patricelli

• Cypress Cove B – Kevin O’Neil

• Grande Estates – Mike Bresson

• Oakwood I – Al Meyer

• Oakwood II – Lillian Bennett

• Sabal Palm – Mark Sherwin

• Santa Lucia – Celia Platt

• Saraceno – Jeanne Basso

• Savona – Sharmin McKenny

• Solemar – Bob Lindgren

• Ville Grande – Steve Bajinski

NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH SAFETY REMINDERS

• Stay alert and aware of unusual activity in your area

• Report suspicious activity to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office

• Ensure exterior lighting is working properly

• Pick up packages promptly and ask neighbors to assist when traveling

• Introduce yourself to neighbors and share contact information

• Lock the doors of your home and auto

• In emergencies, always dial 911

EDITOR’S THOUGHT OF THE DAY

“Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Learn from it – tomorrow is a new day.”

~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Reader’s Corner

FAINA MENZUL

HUSBANDS & LOVERS BY BEATRIZ WILLIAMS

Husbands & Lovers , The New York Times bestseller by Beatriz Williams, is a fascinating historical novel “wrapped” in beachside romance. The novel tells a story of two women, who are separated by decades and continents, and don’t seem to have anything in common.

New England 2022: Mallory Dunne is a single mother of thirteenyear-old Sam whose father is “out of the picture.” Three years ago, Sam was airlifted from a summer camp to a hospital in Boston after he ate a poisonous mushroom that almost took his life. Although he survived, Sam must undergo weekly dialysis to stay alive. While searching for a kidney donor who could give Sam a chance for normal life, Malory is forced to confront two secrets from the past: one she’d rather not touch and another, completely unexpected.

Fourteen years earlier, during her summer “au pair” job with a wealthy family at exclusive Winthrop Island off Long Island Sound, Mallory fell in love with Monk Adams, her best friend from school. As the young lovers planned their future together, a horrible betrayal by Monk’s father forced Malory to flee, forever changing her life.

While searching through belongings of her recently deceased mother Malory discovers that her mother was adopted from an infamous Irish convent orphanage for unwed mothers.

Cairo, 1951: Hannah Ainsworth is a respectable wife of a British diplomat, living a carefree life during her husband’s coveted posting in Egypt. We learn that behind her calm, cool façade, Hannah is desperately trying to forget unspeakable horrors she endured during the war.

Hannah met her current husband after the war when she was recovering in a Displaced Persons camp in Vienna. She volunteered to work as an interpreter for a British officer and helped him uncover a Nazi officer pretending to be a Hungarian war refugee. After many months of working together during the Nuremberg trials, the British officer asked Hannah to marry him. Determined to put behind the tragic loss of her children and husband, Hannah decides to start a new life in England with Alistair Ainsworth, even though he is decades older than she.

A revolution fermenting in Egypt threatens to overthrow King Farouk from his throne, while British expatriates live comfortable lives, filled with tennis games at the exclusive country clubs, shopping, sightseeing, and dining at the best restaurants. A near-deadly bite by an Egyptian cobra, a chance meeting with a mysterious hotel manager, and a clandestine love affair, suddenly thrusts Hannah into the thick of international espionage and intrigue. Furthermore, an unexpected pregnancy amid a country at war leads to a vile betrayal by her husband.

At times, Williams’ alternating narratives from two different time periods may feel confusing and overwhelming to the reader. Many dramatic events pile on top of each other in rapid succession. However, despite all that intensity, the author skillfully leads the reader on a remarkable journey from horrors of World War II to exclusive enclaves of the rich and famous on the shores of New England, from colonial Egypt on the brink of revolution, to grim realities of the Irish convent orphanage in which newborn babies are sold to the highest bidders.

Disregarding the “unfortunate” title page illustration that somewhat misrepresents the content, this book is a great heartwarming story of love, redemption, and forgiveness, an unforgettable page turner.

My Tree is Strong

YVETTE BERNOSKY, B.MS., DIRECTOR OF FITNESS & WELLNESS, THE CLUB AT GRANDÉZZA

Like dark clouds morphing in the sky, such was the nature of my mind. Sadness mixed with grief set in as I wilted, somber and alone. The pain came unannounced. Time stood still, and heaviness settled deep in my heart.

I thought I had been coasting along just fine, though this year was filled with many firsts, my first Christmas, New Year’s, and birthday without her. Even the smallest moments caught me off guard: running across the street for advice, slamming my fingers in a door. Pain followed by the same question every time—who do I call now? My go-to is gone.

Though I am surrounded by close and dear friends, this was a season of reflection, of who she was and what she meant to me. And then, in the midst of anguish, a ray of light broke through. The darkness in my sky began to lift. My thoughts cleared, and like wind, my emotions moved through rather than staying rooted in place.

As sorrow arrived without warning, resilience rose to meet it.

In a 1990 study in Arizona, trees grown inside the Biosphere 2 experiment failed to reach maturity. Designed to simulate a self-sustaining ecosystem, the environment lacked one essential element: wind. Each time the trees reached a certain height, they collapsed. Without external stress, their root systems never strengthened.

These trees mirror the hardships we face in life, those we have endured and those yet to come. When difficulty arises, I remind myself, You have made it this far, and you are going to be okay. That belief grounds me. It gives me hope and reminds me of my strength. Some winds arrive with great force. But through experience and wisdom, I know this: I will be alright. So I breathe more deeply. I allow my emotions. My roots have grown deep, and resilience carries me forward through life’s challenges.

My tree is strong.

May you grow the resilience to carry you through, too.

Grandezza United Way Campaign Achieves

$2.1

Record $220,000. Goal Exceeds

Million In Total Donations!

The Grandezza United Way Committee is proud to announce that our Grandezza Community United Way Campaign has not only achieved 100% of our campaign goal this year but has now exceeded $2.1 million in total donations since the campaign’s inception in 2009.

On behalf of the Lee County United Way, we want to express our deepest appreciation, not only to all our 2025-2026 campaign donors, but to those who have so generously supported our Lee County United Way campaigns over the years.

With 96.3% of every dollar going to support qualified local charities in Lee County you, our donors, are helping to change people’s lives for the better by recognizing that every donated dollar is important to someone in need. Thank you again!

Your Grandezza United Way Committee

Golf Corner

CORY TITENSOR, PGA, DIRECTOR OF GOLF, THE CLUB AT GRANDÉZZA

MESSAGE FROM THE GOLF PROFESSIONAL

As our season continues, we wish to address a few recurring concerns.

The golf course is reserved for golfers with scheduled tee times. Please check in before playing, as this helps maintain the integrity of our membership.

Although the course is a green space, walking, biking, or allowing pets on the cart paths or course is not permitted. For everyone’s safety, pets must remain off the course, and wildlife and cart traffic should be respected. Fishing is allowed only from the residential side of the lakes; please remember this is private property and obtain permission from the homeowner before doing so.

Golfers are also reminded to be considerate of residents living along the course. Use only the designated

restrooms provided by the club and conduct yourself in accordance with our social guidelines.

Finally, pet owners should dispose of waste responsibly. While we appreciate your efforts to clean up after your pets, please ensure waste is placed in appropriate receptacles so all members and guests can enjoy the property.

Thank you for your cooperation and respect for the community. Let’s continue to make the course enjoyable for everyone.

Cook’s Corner IRISH EGGROLLS

JOHN DEJOY

Last month we celebrated Mardi Gras, so this month we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. March 17 was always a day we celebrated back in Cleveland. I remember my Mom taking me and my brothers out of school to go to the Parade. This was a big deal! So, I have lived with this all my life. Although it took many years to fully appreciate the traditional St. Pat’s favorite, I will now eat Corned Beef and Cabbage

FILLING

Simply chop the Corned Beef

Chop the Cabbage

Chop the Potatoes Chop the Carrots Swiss Cheese

Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl. Taste. You may wish to add some Thousand Island dressing to loosen the filling.

multiple times throughout the Irish holiday. This meal was not a dish that necessarily fit into the John Palmer’s Bistro 44 esthetic, but that didn’t stop us from preparing it on March 17. Maybe the staff ate most of it??? We did it right, and people came for this. In order to make it in the restaurant business, you have to utilize all your products. What to do with left over Corned Beef and Cabbage? How about Irish Eggrolls!

PROCESS

1) Using Store bought Eggroll Wrappers, available Gluten Free as well:

Open the package, cover the Wrappers with a damp napkin. They dry out quickly.

2) Rolling one at a time, place the wrapper with a corner facing you. Place a couple Tablespoons of the filling in the middle of the Wrapper. Fold the sides into the middle, then the corner facing you over those side corners. Now roll the Eggroll. Before you finish the roll, brush some water on the final corner. This will adhere to the Eggroll and close it off. Place this on a Parchment lined cookie tray and reserve with another damp napkin.

3) When all the filling is rolled you can either reserve the Rolls for later or cook them. They can be baked at 350 degrees or fried. I like them in the air fryer. Either method is acceptable. I spray them with Pan release of your choice. This will aid in giving the Rolls some color.

4) Serve with 1000 Island dressing. Enjoy.

Note: We often cooked more corned beef and ran these well into April. They made a fun appetizer and a great way to extend a festive holiday.

Compliments of Chef John and Michelle De Joy, Owners of John Palmer’s Bistro 44, in Concord, Ohio, and currently Saraceno residents.

Travel Corner

MARY MELHORN

DISCOVERING IRELAND’S HEART AND SOUL

On this wonderful trip to The Emerald Island we flew from Cleveland to Shannon, Ireland, where we joined a CIE tour called The Ireland South Day Tripper. After checking in at the historic 18th-century family-run Dunraven Arms Hotel in Adare, we headed into town. Known as one of the

prettiest towns in Ireland, Adare would be our home for the next five nights as we branched out to explore all the region’s highlights.

That first evening, we found a lively spot for dinner—Aunty Lena’s Pub & Grill—where we enjoyed our first Irish meal of fish and chips. Of course, Bruce picked up a “Paddy Hat,” perfect for golfing in Ireland. The pub had even won the award for Best Irish Pub of the Year in 2023.

Our first full day of touring began with rain, but soon the sun broke through and a rainbow appeared. We wandered past charming, thatched cottages, ancient churches, and historic buildings constructed in the early 19th century by the Earl of Dunraven. Later we dined at Fitzgerald’s Woodland House Hotel, meeting others in our group and chatting about plans for the week ahead.

The next morning, we set out for the Cliffs of Moher.

There, we felt the fury of the North Atlantic as we braced ourselves against the 50 to 60 mph winds. Driving onward through the Burren, we were captivated by its stark cliffs, caves, and rare plant life. After lunch, we watched skilled border collies herd sheep with remarkable precision. That evening we enjoyed a hearty traditional Irish pork stew—delicious!

The following day began with a visit to Brian De Staic, Ireland’s finest goldsmith, in Dingle. Bruce gifted me a stunning pendant, an alphabet stone engraved with my name in Ogham. We explored the scenic Dingle Peninsula which revealed its rugged mountains and dramatic coastline, then followed with lunch at Paul Geaney’s gastropub. Arriving at the South Pole Inn in Annascaul, over Baileys Coffee, we enjoyed listening to amazing stories about the Inn’s past owner, Thomas Crean, who was an Antarctic explorer.

The next morning’s outing took us by scenic rail from Cork to Cobh. Its picturesque harbor was the last sight of Ireland for millions of emigrants over the centuries. We also learned about Cobh’s connection to the Titanic and the tragic sinking of the Lusitania during World War I. From there, we traveled to Blarney Castle, strolling through beautiful gardens,

browsing the shops, as some of the group kissed the Blarney Stone for the “gift of eloquence.”

Day seven featured the much-anticipated Ring of Kerry. Unfortunately, fog obscured much of the coastline, but we still enjoyed shopping at Moriarty’s before continuing on to Killarney. There, we took a “jaunting car,” a horse-drawn cart, through the national park. Despite the pouring rain, we glimpsed Ross Castle and several lakes before escaping to a warm, dry pub called Hannigan’s.

Next, we headed to Dublin, where we had some of our favorite experiences. We started with lunch (more eating!) and lively entertainment at Three Rock. Later, we toured and tasted at the Guinness Storehouse—complete with a full pint. Dinner that evening was at Copper Alley Bistro, known for its excellent burgers.

After a week of early mornings, we took things slower the next day. We enjoyed brunch at the Cheeky Piglet before hopping on a city bus tour. Then came the Jameson Distillery Bow Street tour and tasting, a far better experience than the Guinness tour, we agreed, and we discovered a new favorite drink: Jameson and ginger ale.

Finally, a direct Aer Lingus flight carried us safely home to Cleveland.

Grandezza Singers Take the Stage on March 27

DONALD PLATT

Music and community will come together when The Grandezza Singers present their Ninth Annual Spring Concert on March 27 at 5 p.m. in the Grand Dining Room. Composed of friends and neighbors from within Grandezza, the group is excited to share an evening of familiar, feelgood songs that are sure to have toes tapping and smiles all around.

This free concert will feature a variety of wellloved favorites by artists ranging from The Beatles to Simon and Garfunkel and much more. Plan to arrive early as seating is first-come, first-served and it’s been standing room only for three years running.

The group would also like to extend heartfelt thanks to Barbara Wischmeier, the Singers’ longtime director, who has retired after many years of dedication and leadership. Directing this spring’s concert will be Carl Marucci, a graduate of Julliard School of Music with 25 years choral and orchestral directing. Mark your calendars and join us for an enjoyable afternoon of song and community spirit!

Writers Wanted!

In an effort to make the Grandezza Gazzette interesting and readable to our residents, we invite you to share your stories, experiences, and perspectives. We welcome articles about books, travel, pets, sports, TV and movies, tech, and/or content that will get our community talking and sharing! Just avoid topics such as politics and religion in keeping with our policy of avoiding controversy.

Please try to limit your words to between 200 and 600 words and feel free to include a couple of jpeg photos with high resolution. We’ll be happy to give you a byline!

Send your submissions to sjsherwin18@gmail.com.

Calling All Pet Owners!

Tell the rest of Grandezza about your beloved pet! Share favorite stories that reveal your pet’s personality in 300-600 words and we’ll feature your pet with a few pictures in the next issue of the Grandezza Gazzette.

Send your article to: sjsherwin18@gmail.com.

Lee County Animal Services Donation Drive

MARY JO SORRENTO

We will be having our fourth annual drive for donations to help Lee County domestic shelters.

The shelters actively seek out fosters and rescue organizations to take animals until they can find a good home. Some of the donations go to these groups to help them be able to continue their work.

Food donations also go to the Food Bank at the shelter. From there it is donated to people with pets who are having financial hardship.

Many of the supplies are used at the shelter for the animals there. All pets will be spayed and neutered prior to adoption.

We will be collecting donations for one week from March 22-28. We have donation drop off areas throughout Grandezza and hope the Grandezza community can help.

Please Pick Up After Your Pet

We all love our dogs—they’re part of the Grandezza family! But no one enjoys stepping in or seeing dog waste left behind on sidewalks, lawns, or common areas. Please be a responsible pet owner and pick up after your dog every time. Dog waste is not only unpleasant, it can spread bacteria and harm our beautiful community landscape. Let’s all do our part to keep Grandezza clean, healthy, and enjoyable for everyone—two-legged and four-legged alike!

Let’s Help Animals!

Animals!

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)

Donations of supplies are needed and so appreciated by our local animal shelter and rescues.

Items may be dropped from MARCH 22-28 at the following locations:

GRANDEZZA CLUBHOUSE - LOWER LEVEL

GRANDE ESTATES:

19906 Markward Crossing & 19835 Markward Crossing

SAVONA

12544 Grandezza Circle

ITEMS NEEDED FOR DOGS AND CATS

Dog toys (especially Heavy chewers) Medium/Large Nyla bones Kong toys

Cat toys Cat litter Cat scratch pads Cat towers Potty Pads

Dog toys (especially Heavy chewers) Medium/Large Nyla bones Kong toys

Cat toys Cat litter Cat scratch pads Cat towers Potty Pads

Dog Beds Unopened Dog and Cat Treats Unopened Dog and Cat Food

Pet Crates (any size) Stainless steel food and water bowls

Pet Crates (any size) Stainless steel food and water bowls USED towels, blankets, ﬂat sheets and wash cloths

Distilled Water Hand Sanitizer Isopropyl Alcohol Hydrogen Peroxide

USED towels, blankets, ﬂat sheets and wash cloths

Distilled Water Hand Sanitizer Isopropyl Alcohol Hydrogen Peroxide

Disinfectant wipes Garden Hoses and Spray Nozzles. Call 239-273-1151 for large item Pickup

Sandy Gibbs sgibbs7098@aol.com

Mary Jo Sorrento tjﬂats@comcast.net

Sandy Gibbs sgibbs7098@aol.com

Mary Jo Sorrento tjﬂats@comcast.net

GirlFriends: A Portrait of Brides Through the Ages

In February, the GirlFriends held a portrait of a bride luncheon. Leigh Ann Brown shared her extraordinary collection of 18 bridal gowns, some more than 100 years old. It was fascinating to see how times have changed. As part of the program, GirlFriends submitted their own bridal photos. We are so grateful

to Kevin Ryan for compiling an amazing slide show that he set to music. Outstanding job, Kevin!

This month we also implemented a new process for the raffle to ensure the winners don’t forget their prizes and go home with the correct prize. Hopefully this helps.

Our numbers are growing and each month we have had several new members joining us at the luncheon. If you see them with their new member badge, please take a moment to welcome them and introduce yourself.

Also, we collected food for our neighbors at FGCU and made a monetary donation to their food bank. Thank you all who brought items to help replenish FGCU’s food pantry. The students are very appreciative of your generosity.

As you know, each month a member is awarded a specially made bracelet. This month, Jeri Greaf’s name was selected. It only took her 17 years to win one. Congrats, Jeri! We also recognize the birthdays of GirlFriends in attendance.

With 180 guests, it wasn’t surprising that we had so many to celebrate: Kathy Curry, Barbara Gehlert, Gina Howe, Judy Johansen, Rachel Johnson, Linda Keyes, Carole Ann Levi, Deborah McIntire, Sharmin McKenny, Christine McPike, Mary Cay Rackers, MaryJo Sorrento, Kathy Thorsteinson, and Valerie Vazquez.

Did you know the pro shop has Grandezza GirlFriends tee shirts for sale for $25? They are available in blue, pink and gray. I’ve included a photo of Lillian Bennet modeling her new shirt.

Grandezza Classified Ads

To place a classified ad Grandezza residents may e-mail sjsherwin18@gmail.com. An ad will run for THREE (3) MONTHS beginning with the first submission. Please inform us when the item has been sold or if you wish to have it deleted from the column. Also, you must notify us to continue an ad for an additional cycle after the initial 3-month period has expired or it automatically will be deleted. (Ending cycle of the ad running is noted at the end in parentheses.)

ITEMS FOR SALE

2010 Club Car. Completely refurbished in 2012. Has had annual care and service by Gator Sports. New Batteries in October 2023. Runs well, 17-18 mph. Tires are good, new in 2020. Asking $2450. Call 419-349-0299. (Expires 4/26)

Italian Leather Sofa & Armchair with Ottoman. Excellent condition, gently used, originally from Robb & Stucky. Also, two twin size beds with brand new memory foam mattresses. Call 201-749-6389. (Expires 4/26)

Six piece patio set. Sofa, two swivel rockers, two ottomans and a side table. Brown wicker with navy cushions. Like new, never exposed to elements. Two years old. $650 ($1000 new). Call or text 248-703-6071. (Expires 6/26)

SERVICES OFFERED

Airport Rides: Airport rides any time or day at affordable rates by a resident of Grandezza. Call or text Sue at (708) 846-1985. (Expires 4/26)

Engage Estero is pleased to announce two extremely important upcoming meetings. On March 17th at 5 p.m., we have the Public Forum that will address where “Estero is headed? What will our Future be like? Details below.

Then, on April 17th at the Estero Recreation Center, we have a review of our Road Infrastructure and how that is going to play out in the coming years, plus the latest on the I-75 expansion. You cannot afford to miss either meeting if you want to stay updated on the issues.

THE MARCH 17TH MEETING

Engage Estero’s Public Forum

Shaping Estero’s Future: A Public Forum on Our Community’s Tomorrow

March 17, 2026, 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

FGCU Cohen Student Union Ballroom, 2nd Floor

The forum offers a collaborative opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Estero’s future and ask questions, thereby clarifying the issues that will shape Estero’s growth, development, infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life.

Engage Estero is hosting a free public forum to help residents understand the plans and ideas being considered to keep Estero a leading municipality

for businesses and residents. Join us for this critical Public Forum, where your voice will help shape the direction of our community.

During the Meeting, We Will Examine:

 Growth & Development Plans

 Village Collaborations with FGCU

 Arts & Culture Expansion

 Support for Entrepreneurs

 Our Future Healthcare Services

 Workforce Housing Implementation

 Annexation prospects

 Education (schools and teacher retention)

 Traffic & Infrastructure

 Community Values

 Environmental Issues & Water Quality

 Resilience /Protection

Our panel of experts will include:

 David Hoffmann, Founder and Chairman of the Hoffmann Group of Companies.

 Aysegül Timur, Ph.D., President of Florida Gulf Coast University

 Chris Simoneau, Lee Health’s Chief Development, Marketing & Communications Officer

 Steve Sarkozy, The Village of Estero’s Manager

The plan for the evening:

 Each panelist will deliver a 10-minute reflection on what they see as the key factors shaping Estero’s future.

 Questions submitted by the public and forwarded to Engage Estero leadership will be grouped to help the panelists cover the main points more efficiently.

 The public will have the opportunity to ask any remaining questions they feel haven’t been addressed, followed by a final comment from the panelists.

The forum is free and open to the public. Seating is limited, and reservations are required. You can reserve your spot on the Engage Estero website at https:// esterotoday.com/event/march2026/

THE APRIL 17TH MEETING

Don’t Miss this Very Important Traffic Update Meeting!! On April 17th at 10 a.m., the Estero Recreation Center.

Topics:

1) The Latest Information on the I-75 Expansion between Corkscrew Road and Golden Gate Parkway.

2) Planned Road Developments: Funding, Timing, Implications.

Engage Estero’s management team is very pleased to have the agreement of Don Scott, AICP, Executive Director, Lee County’s Metropolitan Planning Office, and Brian Bollas, Community Outreach Manager, Florida Department of Transportation, District 1, to discuss these important issues as they relate to us in Greater Estero.

Don Scott: Within the MPO’s remit is the need to provide leadership and promote regional mobility, and foster sustainable development. Don will cover:

• Why developments are outpacing road infrastructure.

• Can we catch up?

○ Funding options: – what is feasible and what are the ramifications. e.g. Increasing sales tax, Impact fees, gas tax.

○ How can the recommendations of the Estero 2024 Traffic Study be implemented? What can we do about it?

○ What does the future of transportation in our area look like?

Brian Bollas, will address:

 What FDOT has learned from feedback from residents and HOAs concerned about the expansion of I-75. This will involve 6 lanes expanding to 10 through the Estero area.

 What FDOT will consider as the options to help alleviate traffic noise for those communities close to the highway.

 Latest timelines for the project.

 Next steps.

Please come and listen to these important updates on issues that concern so many people in Greater Estero.

As seating is somewhat limited and interest in the meeting is likely to be high, please register your intention to attend as soon as possible.

14TH ANNUAL BREAKING PAR FOR E DUCATION, MARCH 21ST & 22ND

Come enjoy the Luau Theme Gala at Grandezza on Sunday, March 22 and support Estero Education. You won’t want to miss the fun, delicious cuisine and the incredible live and silent auction items at this 14th Annual Breaking Par Gala. Happy Hour starts at 5:30 p.m. The students of LEAD Estero will provide a tropical paradise that is sure to please.

Jim Shields is Guest of Honor for this year’s event. Jim started Breaking Par for Education 14 years ago. His commitment to Estero and especially to Estero Education is well known. He received the prestigious Don Eslick Estero Person of the Year award two years ago. Come honor him and what he has done for our community.

Secure your tickets today at this website LeadEstero.ejoinme.org/BreakingPar26

Tickets are $150 per person or bring your friends for a great night of fun and get a table of 8 for $1,000. That’s a savings of $25 per person reducing the cost to $125 per person. Registrations can also be made online or by clicking on the QR code in the attached flyer.

No need to come dressed in a costume for the event, but they are welcomed!

On Saturday, March 21st, Celebrate the 250th Anniversary of our nation’s independence at the Breaking Par Shotgun Golf Scramble starting at 8:30 a.m. Hit the green on the Grandezza links featuring lots of fun games and followed by lunch to announce the Tournament winners.

Come wearing your Red, White and Blue as we celebrate the Semiquincentennial.

Individual tickets are $150 but gather a foursome of friends for only $500. Registrations can be made online by clicking on the QR code in the attached flyer or by visiting LeadEstero.ejoinme.org/ BreakingPar26.

For more information, please contact us at donate@leadestero.com or 239-707-5418.

Both the Gala and Golf Tournament are produced by LEAD Estero with the support of host Engage Estero. All proceeds will fund LEAD Estero Educational Initiatives.

Breaking Par for Education over the past 13 years has produced a total net proceeds of $746,000. Thanks for your past and continued support. Come join us this year for a good time supporting a worthy cause.

HOW WEBSITES AND APPS COLLECT AND USE YOUR INFORMATION

From the Federal Trade Commission

Have you ever wondered why some online ads you see are targeted to your tastes and interests? Or how websites or apps remember your preferences from visit to visit? The answer is online tracking. Learn how and why websites track you — and what to do about it.

How and Why Websites and Apps Track You Online

Websites and apps use different technologies to collect information about what you do online. Websites may track your online activity by using a cookie or pixel to identify you even after you leave the site. Or they may use device $ngerprinting — a technique that uses your browser’s unique con$gurations and settings to track your activity. When you use an app on your smartphone, advertisers may use a unique advertising identi$er to track you. Companies also may track your activity on different internet-connected devices, like your laptop and your smartphone.

So why do companies want to track your online activity? They might do so to

• save your preferences and information, like your username or things you left in your shopping cart

• show you personalized content like local weather and stories about topics you’re interested in

• gather analytics about your visit to a website, like the pages you visited, how much time you spent on the site, and the type of device and browser you used

• remember the things you searched for online

• show you personalized ads based on your browsing history or your location

When a website you visit tracks you, that’s rstparty tracking. When a website you visit lets another company track you, that’s third-party tracking.

Third-party tracking companies can track you across most websites you visit. Third-party tracking lets advertisers show you targeted ads based on your interests and online activity. For example, if you visit a website about running and $tness, you might see ads for running shoes when you visit other websites.

What To Do About Online Tracking and Personalized Ads

Delete your history – If you don’t want to see ads based on your previous online activity, delete cookies and clear your browsing and search history. On your phone, delete or reset identi$ers used to track you.

Adjust your privacy settings –The privacy settings in your browser give you some control over the information websites collect about you. For example, you can choose to block websites from seeing your browsing history. Or choose not to share your location with them. The protections vary by browser. Some have a private browsing mode that deletes your browsing history after you end your session, but it doesn’t block websites from seeing your online activity. There also are browser extensions, or plug-ins, that give you some privacy controls. If you’re considering one, read reviews from reputable sources to learn what options they offer.

Your browser’s privacy settings also let you choose whether to allow or block personalized ads based on your browsing history. And your phone also has a setting that lets you opt out of personalized ads from the company that makes the operating system (for example, Apple or Google). You’ll $nd this setting in the “advertising” section of your phone’s privacy settings. In all these cases, you’ll still see ads, but they won’t be personalized based on your browsing history.

If you have an internet-connected TV or streaming device, review the privacy settings and permissions on those, too.

Social media, and other apps, may also track your online activity. Go to your account settings to see how they use your information and adjust your settings to match your preferences.

Some apps may ask for access to information from your device, like your location, your contacts, or your photos. Go to the privacy settings on your smartphone to see what information they can access from your device. Consider turning off unnecessary permissions or deleting apps that request a lot of permissions they don’t need to function.

Consider using an ad blocker – Ad blockers keep ads from appearing on your browser. They work by $ltering speci$c content according to rules set by the program or the user. Some ad blockers let you block pixels and other trackers from gathering data on you. But ad blockers don’t necessarily block all ads or tracking. That’s because some show ads from advertisers that meet certain criteria set by the company. Ad blockers also don’t detect or block viruses or malware. There are many ad blockers available online. If you’re considering one, read reviews from reputable sources to learn about their features and decide which ad

Opt out of personalized ads – Advertising industry groups have free tools that let you control how participating advertisers use your information. These tools are available for your browser, your phone, your tablet, and, in some cases, your streaming devices and smart TVs. If you opt out, be sure to opt out on each device and browser.

Review website cookie notices – When you visit some websites, you may see a notice about how the website uses cookies. The notice may let you choose what type of cookies to allow: those choices often include allowing only cookies that are necessary for the site to function or allowing the site to use cookies for advertising and other purposes. Choose the option that best $ts your preferences.

How To Manage Your Privacy Settings in Di erent Browsers

Apple Safari

• Delete your browsing history

• Private browsing

• Tracking permissions

• Location sharing

• Personalized ads

Google Chrome

• Delete your browsing history

• Manage cookies

• Private browsing

• Tracking permissions

• Location sharing

• Personalized ads

Microso Edge

• Delete your browsing history

• Delete cookies

• Private browsing

• Tracking permissions

• Location sharing

• Personalized ads

Gatehouse (239) 498-8895

Gatehouse (DwellingLIVE Automated # to register guests) (239) 986-8627

Address 11450 Grande Oak

Clubhouse (239) 948-3569

Grandezza Express -

Take Out Food (239) 738-7113

Golf Pro Shop (239) 948-2900

Tennis Pro Shop (239) 738-7111

Wellness Director (941) 999-1331

Golf Maintenance (239) 947-6296

Vesta Property Services cmcfarland@ vestapropertyservices.com (239) 947-4552 x 932

Gazzette Editor for HOA

Susan Sherwin sjsherwin18@gmail.com (973) 615-4222

RESOURCE HUB

GRANDEZZA MASTER WEBSITE

WWW.GRANDEZZAMASTER.COM

NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH COORDINATORS

Grandezza is a safer community because of Neighborhood Watch. Avalon Peggy Dempsey 610-662-2082

Cypress Cove A (Buttermere) Mike Patricelli 239-464-0780

Cypress Cove B Kevin O’Neil 239-265-5982

Grande Estates Mike Bresson 603-812-8455

Oakwood I (bldg 1-8 & 23-29) Al Meyer 239-313-0580

Oakwood II (bldg 9-22) Lillian Bennett 239-992-5583

Sabal Palm Mark Sherwin 201-370-4160

Santa Lucia Celia Platt 239-498-8158

Saraceno Jeanne Basso 239-600-2828 Savona Sharmin McKenny 239-989-2334

Solemar Bob Lindgren 651-895-6210

Ville Grande Steve Bajinski 678-575-2397

REMEMBER-

• Call 911 for a crime-in-progress (emergency) or

• Call the police at 239-477-1000 to report suspicious activity/behavior (non-emergency)

• Call the Grandezza Gate at 239-498-8895 to inform them that the police may be coming and why.

• Notify your Neighborhood Watch Coordinator

IMPORTANT NUMBERS

Poison Control (800) 222-1222

Alligator Hotline (866) 392-4286

Animal Control (239) 432-2083

Mosquito Control (239) 694-2174

Florida Power & Light (239) 334-7754

Sunshine Before You Dig (800) 432-4770

Waste Services of Florida (239) 332-8500

Free Residential Appliance Pickup (239) 337-0800

GRANDEZZA

COMMUNITY BOARDS AND OFFICERS

ASSOCIATION POSITION

GRANDEZZA

MASTER BOARD

Sarah Hartman P

Peter Dersley VP

Mickey Wheeler T

Barry Blank S

Aramis Sullivan D

Mike Patricelli D

Susan Sherwin D

AVALON

Jim Schleifer P

Joe Convertino, Jr. VP

Pat Van Duyn T

Dan Marrazza D

Ron Gramazio D

Wolfgang Greil D

CYPRESS COVE A

Andy Anderson P

Mike Patricelli VP

Myrna Wernick S

Paul Lesser T

David Lipschultz D

CYPRESS COVE B

Toni MacLeod P

Chuck Dennis VP

Kevin O’Neil T

Frank Senese S

Yvonne Mazzella D

GRANDEZZA MASTER COMMITTEES

Finance & Long Range Planning

Mickey Wheeler ................................................. chair

Communications

Susan Sherwin ....................................................

Landscape

Aramis Sullivan ...................................................

Infrastructure, Lakes, Preserves & Fountains

Peter Dersley.......................................................

Safety & Access Control

Mike Patricelli ..................................................... chair

Community Affairs

Sarah Hartman .................................................... chair

GRANDE ESTATES

Peter Dersley P

Cameron Snyder VP

Doug Craft T

Laura Reddin S

Leaha Neville D

OAKWOOD

Sandra Renner P

Brad Robinson D

Patricia Collie S Al Meyer D

Steve Anderson T

SABAL PALM

Shannon Palombo P

Ellen Kaplan VP

William Greenwald T

Julie Sexton S

Mark Sherwin D

SANTA LUCIA

Aramis Sullivan P

Mike Mainelli S/T

Celia Platt VP

SARACENO

SAVONA

Brian Schultz P Wes Wilkins T

Paul Copper VP/S

Nancy Banyard D Ann Cary D

SOLEMAR

Bob Lindgren P

Brian Vance VP/S

Dan Williams T

VILLA GRANDE

Joseph Drummond P

Mickey Wheeler VP

Beth Feldman T

Jeff Almo S

Steve Bajinski D

John Polczynski D

LOOKING FOR LOVE ONLINE? HOW ROMANCE SCAMS PUT FLORIDIANS AT RISK

A fter weeks of daily messages, Josh felt confident he had found love and a true connection. Suzy, whom he met online, was kind and attentive, and seemed to show sincere interest in Josh’s life. She also spoke about a future together and even moving to Florida, where Josh lives.

When plans to meet in person were delayed due to a medical emergency, Suzy asked Josh to lend her money for her mother’s surgery, promising to repay him once she received a large work bonus. The request seemed reasonable, and Josh transferred the money.

Later that day, Suzy’s online profi le had vanished. Her phone number no longer worked. Josh’s money was gone. He was the victim of a romance scam.

In today’s digital age, many people turn to the internet looking for love. Along with genuine connections, however, there is a dangerous side to online romance: criminals who exploit trust and a $ection to steal money. These are commonly known as romance scams.

Josh’s story illustrates how these scams typically work. A criminal creates a fake profi le on a dating app or social media and strikes up a relationship that builds trust over weeks, months, or even years. Conversations are moved quickly from public platforms to private messaging apps, such as WhatsApp. Scammers usually claim they cannot meet in person due to military deployment, work overseas, or other believable excuses. Once trust is established, the scammer makes up a situation that requires money, such as a medical emergency, an investment opportunity, or travel expenses to finally meet.

According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), romance scams account for the largest online financial crime losses, and Floridians reported losing more than $62 million to romance scams in 2023, the most recent data available. This represents a significant increase from $20 million in reported losses in 2018. The FBI also notes that scammers spend hours researching their victims, who are usually well educated and believe they would never fall victim to this kind of scam, to manipulate and exploit them emotionally.

Before dating online, pay close attention to these warning signs and safety tips:

Protect your personal information and be cautious about what you share online;

Research pro les by searching images and names online to detect potential fraud;

Be wary of quick relationship development and attempts to isolate you from family or friends;

Be cautious if someone is reluctant to meet in person or through live video;

Keep conversation on secure platforms until you can verify the person’s identity. Scammers often try to move conversations to private messaging apps to avoid detection;

Tell someone you trust about your new connection and see it if raises any red %ags;

Never send money to anyone you have not met in person;

If you believe you may be the target of a romance scam, cut o$ contact immediately and report it to:

Florida Attorney General’s O ce: 1(866) 9NO-SCAM

Federal Trade Commission (FTC): ReportFraud.ftc. gov

FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): www. ic3.gov

Romance scams are much more than just financial crimes; they prey on people’s emotions and trust. For Floridians looking to connect online, vigilance and awareness are the key. By recognizing the red %ags and warning signs, safeguarding personal information, and reporting suspicious activity, we can protect both hearts and wallets from fraudulent schemes.

Reference

Federal Bureau of Investigation. (n.d.). Romance scams. https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scamsand-safety/common-frauds-and-scams/romancescams

Federal Bureau of Investigation. (2024, February 13).

Beware of romance scammers looking for more than love. https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/ jacksonville/news/beware-of-romance-scammerslooking-for-more-than-love

Federal Trade Commission. (2023, February 9). Romance scammers’ favorite lies exposed. https:// www.ftc.gov/news-events/data-visualizations/dataspotlight/2023/02/romance-scammers-favorite-liesexposed

Federal Trade Commission. (n.d.). Looking for love? Watch out for scammers. https://consumer.ftc.gov/ consumer-alerts/2025/02/looking-love-watch-outscammers

Federal Trade Commission. (n.d.). What to know about romance scams. https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/ what-know-about-romance-scams

Moody’s Analytics. (n.d.). Tackling the rise in romance scams. https://www.moodys.com/web/en/us/insights/ data-stories/romance-scams.html

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. (2025, August 20). Protect yourself against romance scams. https://www.ice.gov/about-ice/hsi/news/hsi-insider/ romance-scams-protect-yourself

PRICE DISPLAY AND VERIFICATION

You may have heard about the repeal of Florida’s Consumer Unit Pricing Act earlier this year with the passage of Senate Bill 700. The Act required sellers to display the prices of consumer commodities for any item offered or exposed for sale. However, the repeal of this act does not mean retailers are no longer required to display the price of items for sale.

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) Division of Consumer Services serves as the state’s clearinghouse for matters relating to consumer protection, consumer information, and consumer services. FDACS has adopted national standards for pricing and price verification as designated by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and adopted by the 107th National Conference on Weights and Measures. These standards outline the requirements for retailers to conspicuously post correct unit prices and ensure pricing accuracy when those items are purchased.

Also contained within these nationally adopted standards is the Examination Procedure for Price Verification (EPPV), the inspection procedure that provides regulatory o$cials with test procedures to review prices displayed on the shelf or on an item match the price charged upon checkout. FDACS inspectors routinely conduct price verifications throughout the year. Incorrectly priced items are immediately removed from sale until the errors are resolved. The standards adopted by FDACS require accurate pricing on 98% of items tested for a retailer to pass inspection.

Consumers are encouraged to pay close attention when shopping, both to the posted price (or if a price is NOT posted) and to what is charged at checkout, including sale items. It is good practice to familiarize yourself with the advertised price and the shelf price of an item and check your receipt to be sure the items you purchased ring up correctly.

If you have any questions or concerns about a possible violation, contact FDACS. Complaints can be filed online; other inquiries can be answered by email or by calling 1-800-HELP-FLA.

Visitor Access Control System at the Grandezza Front Entrance

Our DwellingLIVE access control system continues to be successfully used by most Grandezza residents. However, some residents are still calling the gatehouse directly to register their guests.

To help our gatehouse staff and ensure faster, more accurate visitor processing, we ask that you please register your guests using one of the following preferred methods instead of calling the gatehouse:

• The DwellingLIVE mobile app on your smartphone

• The DwellingLIVE website on your computer

• The Guest Registration System by phone (for those unable to use the app or website)

If you need to use the Guest Registration System, please follow these simple steps:

1. Call 239-986-8627 or 888-994-4117.

2. When prompted, clearly state the following information:

○ Name: Say your visitor’s name (e.g., “Perfect AC Systems”).

○ Date: Say the date (e.g., “September 21”).

○ Time: You do not need to specify a time.

○ Number of days: State how long the pass should be valid (e.g., “one day” or “two days”).

3. Press # when you are finished and then hang up.

Please keep your message brief. The DwellingLIVE system automatically recognizes your phone number and saves the voice message in your account. When your visitor arrives, the gate officer will retrieve the information from your account and issue a pass accordingly.

Thank you for helping us keep Grandezza’s access control system running efficiently and securely.