Heritage Palms FEB 2026

Between Palms THE

FEBRUARY 2026

Staying Connected

JANE BREISCH, EDITOR CVGOLFERS@GMAIL.COM

I know this is February, however, due to our publisher’s lead-time requirements, many Christmas and year-end activities are captured once again in THIS issue. Yes, in no less than five articles! So, sit back and enjoy reliving HP’s beautiful holiday season once more!

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This is the time of year your Board of Directors is actively seeking members to serve on our Advisory Committees. My We Need YOU! article on page 20 provides details for those interested in helping our community become even better! Look for eBlasts coming soon about how to apply to an Advisory Committee. ************

One of the many amenities offered here is F & B’s Market Place. It’s a convenient way to pick up competitively priced groceries without going outside our gates. Check out my article, A Dozen Eggs for $2.75? Really? on page 48. ***********

Should you have an article to submit for the March issue, my deadline is February 1. Post Cards are welcome! Please email to cvgolfers@ gmail.com .

Heritage Palms 18th Annual Tree Lighting

ARTICLE BY KITTY JEDD

PHOTOS BY VINCE AND MARY ANN MAISANO.

On Sunday evening, November 30, more than 400 people gathered under the portico in front of the Clubhouse to celebrate our community’s annual Tree Lighting Event.

Strolling Carolers, members of the New Hope Presbyterian Church choir, were led by their choral director, HP resident Ellen Whitten. They sang traditional carols and happy Christmas songs. Marcia and Bob Leadbetter, and their beautiful golden retriever, Harley, sat by the tree and Harley, wearing his festive bandana, posed for pictures and was petted and admired by all. Committee volunteers passed out programs and “magic glasses.”

COMMITTEE MEMBERS STANDING (L-R): BILL THORNTON, MICHELLE NEALON, JOHN & KITTY JEDD, GEORGE SMOTHERS, SHARON PATALINO, LARRY GERMAN, AND JOE PATALINO.

SEATED (L-R): MELODY SMOTHERS, MARCIA, BOB, & HARLEY LEADBETTER, PAT THORNTON, AND ELLEN WHITTEN.

The Lee County Sheriff’s Department, once again, brought their wonderful ice cream truck and provided delicious free ice cream. The Club also provided coffee, hot chocolate, and pastry chef Damian’s excellent cookies.

Lighting Ceremony

THE STROLLING CAROLERS.

MEMBERS LINING UP FOR FREE ICE CREAM CONES AT LCSO’S “WHAT’S THE SCOOP.”

General Manager, Tracy Irons Izzo welcomed everyone. And then with much hoopla, Santa and Mrs. Claus arrived in a vintage patrol car driven by a member of the Sheriff’s Volunteer Community Response Unit and accompanied by Lt. Angelo Vaughn. After some brief remarks by Lt. Vaughn, our carolers led the crowd in singing some festive holiday songs.

Then it was time for the dramatic lighting, of not only our beautiful tree, but all the lights on the palm trees along our promenade. Everyone put on their “magic glasses,” and when the switch was thrown, all the lights became truly magical.

Many thanks to all our volunteers and to Larry German, Cheyanne Baker, and the F&B staff. Thanks to our resident photographers, Vince and Mary Ann Maisano, for capturing happy moments. This ceremony has truly become an annual EVENT, and we look forward to seeing everyone next year!

FOR MORE PHOTOS SEE PAGE 50 OR CLICK HERE

Employees Celebrate Christmas!

ARTICLE BY HEATHER BECHT, DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES

PHOTOS BY JANE BREISCH

Our 2025 Employee Christmas Party, held on December 15, was a wonderful celebration with approximately 211 attendees. Guests enjoyed a delicious meal prepared by Gordon Food Services, who generously donated the prime rib. DJ Xjavier kept the energy high with great music throughout the night. The raffle added extra excitement with prizes including gift cards, a Bluetooth speaker, a drone, and more. The photo booth was a huge hit, and captured lots of fun memories.

A Sea of Red and Green

JANE BREISCH, EDITOR

PHOTOS BY DAVID DEVEREAUX

Colorful seasonal outfits in red and green dotted both golf courses at HP’s annual Christmas Scramble held Sunday, December 7. A full field of 400+ players hit the links in both morning and afternoon shotguns for some festive competition. There were twelve total flights, with the top four teams in each flight winning pro shop credit.

The first-place teams by flight were: Sabal morning round

• Flight 1: Kevin Simard, Jeff Roberts, Ann & Art Mann.

• Flight 2: Tammy & Rob Snell, Robin & Jim Aranowski.

• Flight 3: Brendan King, Stacy Lewis, and Kasey & Pete Crist.

• Flight 4 (tie): Lucinda & Bill Jordon, and Celia & Bob Dethlefsen.

• Flight 4 (tie): Jeannine & Tim Van Liere, and Liz & John Manning.

Royal morning round

• Flight 1: Susan & Morley Fraser, Karen Longbrake, and Dave Slovak.

• Flight 2: Kirsten & Rob Shovlin, and Kristen & Marty Wilson.

• Flight 3: Dawn & Steve Vanderhill, and Kathy & Mike Schmidlkofer.

• Flight 4: Paula & Dave Kraft, and Melody & George Smothers.

L-R: DAWN & STEVE VANDERHILL, AND KATHY & MIKE SCHMIDLKOFER.

Royal afternoon round

• Flight 1: Barbara Sovereign, Andrew Barber, Steven Whelan, and Stuart Peetoom.

• Flight 2: Leo Korczak, Dan Barden, John Mackay, and Fred Cook.

• Flight 3: Denise & Frank Fiorino, and Pam & Mike O’Donnell.

• Flight 4: Toni & Kevin Dolder, and Debby & Chris Giovan.

L-R: DAVID & ZOE VAN OSS, AND STEVE & KATHY BLAGOUE.

L-R: MIKE & KIM WALLIN, MARY PADGETT, AND MIKE HEILIGENBERG.

L-R: DAN & KATHY CARVER, AND KIM & RAY MILLER.

L-R: LEIF FRY, BERNARD & LISA PATTERSON, AND KAREN FRY.

L-R: MIKE & SHIRLEY BRAKE, AND BOB & JULIE CHALEFF.

FOR MORE PHOTOS SEE PAGE 59 OR CLICK HERE

Between the Numbers Benchmarking Can Improve Your Game

MARK CARTER, FINANCE COMMITTEE AND COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE MEMBER MARKBCARTER@MAC.COM

This will be my last accountant joke for a while – I promise. Three accountants are interviewing with a company CEO. To be fair and consistent, the CEO asks each candidate the same question: What is one plus one?

The first accountant, clearly nervous, mishears the question and blurts out, “Three.” The second answers confidently, “Two.” The third leans in, looks the CEO straight in the eye, and asks, “What do you want it to be?” He was hired on the spot.

Now, onward to this month’s topic!

Have you ever had this experience? Back in the day – circa the 1980s – my neighbor triumphantly pulled into his driveway with a brand-new BMW 5 Series. I stood there admiring it while leaning against my 1975 Oldsmobile Roadmaster, which had plenty of character…and very little acceleration. That was my first lesson in benchmarking.

Fast-forward to today, and I find myself admiring my wife’s brand-new set of Cleveland golf clubs. I’m confident they will dramatically improve her game. Mine, unfortunately, remains immune to equipment upgrades. Once again,

benchmarking was at work.

Simply put, benchmarking is comparing yourself to others to see how you’re doing –and briefly wondering if you should upgrade. We all do it: on the golf course (“I swear I used to hit it that far”), on the pickleball courts (“When did everyone get so fast?”), and sometimes even in the parking lot.

Our Board and Club Management use benchmarking in more responsible ways, including:

• Comparing our master association dues –both the amount and the annual increase –to other clubs in Southwest Florida.

• Comparing what we pay our management team to what similar clubs pay (no BMWs included).

• Conducting member satisfaction surveys, and seeing how our results compare with those of other communities.

When used properly, benchmarking has real benefits. It gives us an objective way to measure performance, identify opportunities for improvement, and keep costs under control. It can also build credibility with members and help align the Board, Club Management, and membership – something

Game – If You Don’t Let It Run It

that’s harder than hitting a straight drive with a crosswind.

That said, I’ve always been a bit of a contrarian when it comes to benchmarking. And it does have its limitations. What works perfectly at another club may not work here. Good, up-to-date, apples-to-apples data can be hard to find. Too much focus on numbers can cause us to lose sight of what really matters –community, culture, and enjoyment. And yes, benchmarking takes time, effort, and money (which could otherwise be spent on rebuilding bunkers).

But in my view, the biggest danger is that benchmarking can replace thinking with copying. It can encourage organizations to follow the crowd instead of charting their own course. Worse yet, Boards and Club Management may push changes simply because “everyone else is doing it” – an argument that has never worked with teenagers, spouses, or golfers trying to perfect their swing.

So, here’s the warning: benchmarking is best used as a guide, not a rulebook. It should inform decisions, not make them.

Because in golf – and in running a Club – if you spend all your time watching everyone else’s swing, you’re going to miss your own shot.

Yes, We Need YOU!

JANE BREISCH, COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE CHAIR CVGOLFERS@GMAIL.COM

The HP Master Board is asking YOU to consider joining an Advisory Committee! Do you possess the talents, skills, and fresh ideas that can help our HP Management and Board? Our current Volunteer Advisory Committees are:

• Communications

• Community Relations

• Facilities

• Finance

• Fitness & Wellness

• Golf

• House

• Safety

• Strategic Planning

• Tennis & Pickleball

These ten Committees are very important in the overall scope of HP. They act in an advisory capacity with one Board Member acting as a liaison to the specific committee. The Club’s Advisory Committees are vital in generating thoughts and ideas for our Club. The Board is currently seeking members, especially new members, to serve on Committees for the next 12 months beginning in April.

So why not apply? A very detailed description of the purpose and responsibilities of each Committee is listed on our website. Simply go to www.hpgcc.com>My Heritage Palms>Committees and click on the green button named Committee Process & Procedures.

There are currently over 100 active, dedicated volunteers working on our Committees. Each year, all current members must reapply if they’d like to continue their service. You’ll receive a Facts Blast describing the BOD’s committee application process this month. It’s simple and easy. Just fill out an application and take it to Jill Eaton in the Administration Office prior to Friday, March 6. You can find a Committee Application in the flyer rack in the Clubhouse hallway, as well as on the HP website. This form also has a detailed description of what each Committee does. Should you have additional questions regarding how Committees function at HP, please drop me an email at cvgolfers@gmail. com.

If you’re new to our community, it’s especially important to get involved. Don’t worry, the time commitment isn’t overwhelming. Please know Committee positions are open to both year-round and seasonal members! We’ve been impressed with the energy and creativity of our current Committee volunteers. Please join them in making Heritage Palms an even better place to live!

Please

don’t Speed! That means you!

Heritage Palms’ posted speed limit is 25 MPH!

As you drive down our streets, traveling no more than the posted 25 mph, please be aware of joggers, dog walkers, children, bicyclists, golf carts, maintenance vehicles, parked contractor trucks, etc. Yes, please share the road! Also, ignore that ringing cell phone, avoid texting, wear sunglasses to counter sun glare, and stop at every stop sign!

Please be aware we have specific rules regarding traffic safety (stated below).

Traffic Violations are applicable to speeding and reckless driving within our Community. This includes excessive speeding, dangerous driving , and other conduct that affects the health and safety of others. Traffic violations include , but are not limited to, the following: • Speeding in excess of posted speed limits • Running a stop sign

• Ignoring round-about signage • Gate entrance and exit violation. Any violations of traffic rules will result in the following disciplinary action :

• First Violation - Member will be sent a warning letter.

• Subsequent violations – Each subsequent violation will add 10 days to the previous gate pass deactivation along with a $200 fine for each subsequent violation.

• Three or more violations in any (12) month period may result in further enforcement actions by the Board of Directors.

• A violation by one member of the Family may result in the suspension of all other family members privileges. After two years without a violation, the process begins anew.

Parking Violations Any parking in a clearly marked no parking zone or restricted area outlined in our Rules and Regulations will result in the following:

• First Violation – Member is issued a written Parking Violation which is placed on the vehicle.

• $65 fine for each violation.

• Three of more parking violations will result in larger fines and suspensions as determined by the Board of Directors

• The Ft. Myers Police Department will patrol our streets on a regular basis and will issue tickets for parking and traffic violations.

Living Well Longer: Brain Health and

LISA SCHNECK, CPT, CNC WELLNESS AND ACTIVITIES DIRECTOR LSCHNECK@HPGCC.COM

When we talk about living well longer, we often focus on things that are obvious –physical strength, mobility, and disease prevention. But one of the most important drivers of long-term quality of life is something less tangible: brain health.

The brain is not a static organ. It is constantly adapting and rewiring based on the signals it receives from our lifestyle and environment. This adaptability – known as neuroplasticity –is influenced by how we eat, move, sleep, manage stress, and connect with others.

A key concept we’ll explore in this session is hormesis – the idea that the right amount of challenge strengthens the system. Just as muscles grow stronger when appropriately stressed, the brain benefits from healthy, manageable challenges such as learning new skills, engaging in meaningful movement, navigating novelty, and recovering well afterward. Too little challenge leads to decline; too much leads to burnout.

This session explores how our Five Wellness Superpowers – the foundation of the Living Well Longer series – play a direct role in supporting cognition, mood, blood flow to the brain, and neurological resilience over time.

We’ll discuss emerging science around the gut – brain axis, blood flow and oxygen delivery, and early signs of cognitive change that are often overlooked. Just as importantly, we’ll focus on behaviors that help protect brain function – stress modulation, social engagement, purposeful activity, and intentional daily habits.

and Neuroprotection

The key takeaway is empowering: your brain can protect and rewire itself – if you give it the right input. Many changes attributed to aging are not inevitable and are influenced by lifestyle patterns that can be adjusted at any stage of life.

This Lunch & Learn is designed to be practical, approachable, and grounded in real-world application – not fearbased messaging or quick fixes. Whether your goal is maintaining independence, improving focus and emotional balance, or simply understanding how your daily choices shape brain health, this session will offer clear insight and actionable tools.

Join us on February 19 at 11:30 a.m. in the Palms Dining Room for this engaging overview of how supporting your brain today can help you live well… longer. Members can register on the Club Calendar – reservations will open 30 days prior to the event.

A Holiday Celebration

From Lynne Thompson: The Single Family and Villas of Pineview I & II homeowners held a Christmas cocktail party in the Palms

Dining Room on December 8. Members enjoyed delicious heavy hors d’oeuvres catered by our Food & Beverage staff.

SEATED (L-R): SARAH & BILL VOSNEY, AND STATIA & BILL SERVICK. STANDING (L-R): DENNIS & KAREN JENSON, KATHY & STEVE HALL, AND BARBARA & BILL TRAUM.

SEATED (L-R): DOUG & CATHY STANDING (L-R): DAVE & CINDY AND SCOTT & SHERI

LISA SCHNECK, CPT, CNC, TPI-2 WELLNESS AND ACTIVITIES DIRECTOR

114 HP members enjoyed an evening of themed entertainment during Panic at the Disco, a 1970s-inspired murder mystery dinner held at the Club on December 1. The event combined interactive game play, dinner service, a performance from the member-led line dancing class and audience participation.

Guests embraced the disco theme with creative costumes, while following a suspenseful storyline and working together to solve the mystery before the final reveal. The evening offered a fun, social experience, and was a popular addition to the HP event schedule.

Boys2Men Kicks Off a New Year of Mentorship

LOU BOTTITTA LBOTTITTA@GMAIL.COM

On Wednesday, December 17, volunteers from Heritage Palms met with 20 fifth-grade boys from Pottorf Elementary for the first Boys2Men session of the school year. The session focused on holiday fun and the value of friendship, with students reflecting on their relationships and creating Venn diagrams to illustrate what makes a great friend. The boys also proudly received their Pillars of Integrity T-shirts to wear at school and at home.

The following day, I was pleased to serve as one of the judges at the school’s Inventors Day and to see the creativity and innovative ideas of several Boys2Men participants on display.

We’re excited to share that, thanks to the

THE SIX PILLARS OF INTEGRITY.

generosity of HP members, a grant from the Rotary Club of Fort Myers South, and a stipend from Publix, the Boys2Men program is on solid financial footing for the coming year. As we look ahead, we welcome new mentors, volunteers, and community support to help us continue our mission: guiding young men to live by the Six Pillars of Integrity, lead by example, show kindness and respect, support others, and do what’s right – even when it’s hard.

Thank you for helping make a difference in the lives of these young men!

LOU BOTTITTA WITH TWO STUDENTS HOLDING THEIR FRIENDSHIP POSTERS. AT THE SCIENCE FAIR.

From The Pro Shop

BOB KELLY, DIRECTOR OF GOLF BKELLY@HPGC.COM

Hello from the golf shop. The 2026 golf season is in full swing, and both courses are in spectacular condition. As we talk about every month, please do your best to keep them that way. It is every member’s responsibility to fill their divots, fix any ball marks you see, and follow all cart directional stakes. We’ve noticed that many golfers are not sanding their divots in the rough. Please treat the rough the same as the fairway and be sure to use sand.

As usual, the season goes by fast and sign-ups will be coming out soon for the Club’s Member-Member on March 14 and 15. Look for an email to come out through Golf Genius on Monday February 9 with sign up and event information. Shortly after that, we’ll be taking signups for the Tent Party Scramble. The event is scheduled for golf on Friday, March 27 (both morning and afternoon shoguns), and Saturday March 28 (morning shotgun). Sign-up will also be through Golf Genius where you will enter your preference of which shotgun you

want to play in, and we do our best to accommodate. The party will be Saturday evening on the driving range. Exact signup date and time to follow.

Mark your calendar for a few demo days we have scheduled in February and March. Callaway on February 9 and March 23, Taylor Made on February 10 and March 9, and PING on March 16.

Lastly, let’s keep a good pace of play on our minds for the remainder of the season. Considering we play 500-600 rounds daily, it only takes a few slow groups to impact the pace for everyone else. No matter the caliber of your game, even poor golf can be played quickly. If you are playing on a fully booked day and you lose sight of the group ahead of you, your group is behind. Focus on always keeping pace with the group ahead of you and you will never be singled out for slow play.

As always, please let us know if there is anything we can do to make your golf experience at HP more enjoyable.

LNHGA Has Busy Schedule

JUDY KENT, LNHGA PRESIDENT JUDYKENT26@GMAIL.COM

January was a busy month for our 9 Hole League. We started with a terrific luncheon on January 7. The theme was “Paws and Enjoy Your Game.” Melody Smothers created some really cute centerpieces shaped like puppies out of flowers. These, along with some fabulous prizes, were raffled off at the luncheon. All the money went towards our charity, Ray V. Pottorf Elementary School.

On January 14, not only did we play golf, but we also played BINGO. Members

MGA News

ANDY WHITE, MGA SECRETARY AGTCAWHITE@ROGERS.COM

This month’s MGA schedule is jam packed.

• February 5 – 1st week of Match play. Alternate game: 1 Best ball on odd holes, and 2 Best Balls on even holes.

• February 12 – 2nd week of Match play. Alternate game: 2 Best Balls

• February 19 – 3rd week of Match play. Alternate game: Team Nassau

• February 26 – Match play finals. Alternate game: 1 Best Ball Shamble. Membership luncheon with Harry Chapin 50/50 draw.

bought Bingo cards and marked off events that they experienced on the golf course. This was anything from getting a Birdie, hitting a tree with their ball, or seeing an alligator. Those golfers lucky enough to get a completed Bingo card will be entered to win a prize at the upcoming February 11 luncheon.

On January 19, “Sip, Show and Shop” was the theme of our Fun Night out. There were three businesses represented: Spada Salon & Day Spa, Concierge

MGA membership has, once again, displayed outstanding generosity in support of the Harry Chapin fund. Under the direction of VP Morley Fraser, our monthly 50/50 draws and the Charity luncheon have placed the MGA well on our way to achieving our goal.

I want to share some thoughts on pace of play and “Ready Golf.”

Cruises & Land Tours, and The Brass Alligator Boutique. They provided lots of information and gifts to the ladies in attendance. What a great night!

January 21 was our “Pick a Partner” event. Ladies had lots of fun competing with each other and some even went all in by dressing alike.

Our Charity luncheon will be held February 11. There will be a group of students from Ray V. Pottorf coming to entertain us. It’s such a great partnership

we have with this school! Hopefully we’ll have a great sum of money to donate to them at our March luncheon. Anyone wishing to sponsor a hole, or donate, can contact Julia Pucel at golden502001@ yahoo.com .

We will also be holding our second evening event on Monday, February 23. It will have a ’70s/’80s theme with live music from No Eileen. All league members need to be sure to sign up for this event to enjoy the evening of drinks, dancing, and fun!

What is “Ready Golf?” Ready golf means playing when you are ready, not strictly by who is farthest from the hole. It encourages players to take their shot when it’s safe and makes sense, even if it is not technically their turn. It’s most often used in stroke play. In match play, where the order can influence strategy, traditional turn-taking is expected.

Why is “Ready Golf” important?

• It keeps the pace moving

• It eases pressure

• It supports rhythm and flow

• It builds awareness

Ready golf is one of the simplest ways to improve everyone’s experience on the course. It helps you play smarter, keeps things moving, and removes a lot of unnecessary waiting from the game.

Jingle All the Way

On December 3, the two Ladies’ leagues joined together for a fun scramble and terrific meal. Lots of money was raised for Ana’s Friends, and Santa even helped with our drives on a couple of holes!

WGA News

TERRI ANDERSON, WGA PRESIDENT THEHRLADYSYRACUSE@GMAIL.COM

Happy February all! Mardi Gras came early to HP with our Fun Night Celebration on January 26. A Cajun themed meal kicked off the night filled with a variety of music, games, raffles and activities. Bob Kelly and the Pro Shop team made a “festive appearance” to add to the fun!

The league is in full swing with a mix of tee times and shotgun starts throughout February and March. Our annual Charity event is scheduled for February 18 followed by lunch. All monies

raised from the event will be donated to the Dubin Center, an Alzheimer’s and dementia related illness resource center. If you would like to make a donation to this year’s charity event, checks should be made out to the Dubin Center and can be dropped off at the golf shop. Hole sponsorship forms will also be available from the Pro Shop or contact any Board member who will be happy to provide the sponsorship form.

March 18 is our “Pick a Partner Event.” Golfers are welcome to sign up as partners or will be assigned a partner by the Pro Shop.

Our closing cocktail party, awards celebration, and installation of the 2026-27 officers will be held on Tuesday, April 7. The nomination process for new WGA Board members begins in January. All WGA members are encouraged to consider joining the 2026-27 Board. It’s a great way to contribute to our golf community and continue the 25-year history of the WGA. Please reach out to any Board member should you have questions. Board positions and job duties are also listed on the WGA website.

Happy golfing all!

Do You Know the Rules?

DAVE KRAFT DKRAFT_SR@YAHOO.COM

Your ball is on the putting green about 15 feet from the hole. You hit your putt and it ends up over hanging the hole. What do the Rules of golf say about this situation?

Rule 13.3a Waiting Time to See If Ball Overhanging Hole Will Fall into Hole

• If any part of a player’s ball overhangs the lip of the hole: The player is allowed a reasonable time to reach the hole and ten more seconds to wait to see whether the ball will fall into the hole.

• If the ball falls into the hole in this waiting time, the player has holed out with the previous stroke.

• If the ball does not fall into the hole in this waiting time: The ball is treated as being at rest. If the ball then falls into the hole before it is played, the player has holed out with the previous stroke, but gets one penalty stroke added to the score for the hole.

Rule 13.3b What to Do If Ball Overhanging Hole is Lifted or Moved Before Waiting Time Has Ended

If a ball overhanging hole is lifted or moved before the waiting time under Rule 13.3a has ended, the ball is treated as having come to rest:

• The ball must be replaced on the lip of the hole, and

• The waiting time under Rule 13.3a no longer applies to the ball.

If the opponent in match play or another player in stroke play deliberately lifts or moves the player’s ball overhanging the hole before the waiting time has ended:

• In match play, the player’s ball is treated as holed with the previous stroke, and there is no penalty to the opponent under Rule 11.2b

• In stroke play, the player who lifted or moved the ball gets the general penalty (two penalty strokes). The ball must be replaced on the lip of the hole.

Here is this month’s golf etiquette tip : Our golf carts are equipped with two sand buckets. The sand is used for filling divots. These sand buckets are not to be used as an ash tray for cigarette and cigar butts.

Why Good Golfers Don’t Necessarily

ANDREW WEINER WEINER@UKY.EDU

Many years ago, I had a golf training facility as a client. The owner wanted me to test all the instructors in emotional intelligence in order to determine who scored the highest in the areas that pertained to teaching, not performing.

I administered the Bar On Eqi 2.0 Emotional Quotient Inventory (EQi), which measures cognitive and psychological aspects of emotional intelligence. It is a valid and reliable instrument which, via training, I was certified to administer. It wasn’t some gimmicky, invalid, inventory pulled off the internet.

The EQi is comprised of five composite scales and 15 sub-scales. Not all of the subscales are relevant to teaching but, I will highlight the most important ones for being an instructor.

1) Self-perception: primarily “emotional self-awareness,” one’s own emotions and the impact they have on of others.

2) Self-expression: to include emotional expression and non-verbally)

3) Interpersonal: to include empathy, or the ability how others feel. Empathy involves being able to perspective, and behaving in a way that respects

4) Decision Making: to include impulse control, drive, or temptation to act.

5) Stress Management: stress tolerance or coping

Ace Faces

BOB ROUGIER

December 16, 2025

#11 Sabal

160 yards

7 iron

This is Bob’s 4th holein-one, but his 1st at HP! “It was quite a surprise when we couldn’t find the ball until we looked into the cup, and found it in the hole!”

Necessarily Make Good Golf Instructors

self-awareness,” which is the ability to understand on one’s own thoughts and actions and those expression (openly expressing one’s feelings verbally ability to recognize, understand and appreciate to articulate your understanding of another’s respects others’ feelings. control, or the ability to resist or delay an impulse, coping with frustrating situations.

The 15 subscales are way more detailed than can fit into this article, but suffice it to say that the results showed that those who rated highest as instructors, were not the best golfers. Although the sample was too small for valid statistical analysis, it appeared that the better golfers did not score as high in empathy, emotional selfawareness, or emotional expression.

While I’m not exactly sure what all of the above means, I do think that when you look for a golf instructor, pick one that is empathic, self-aware, and good at listening to you, while being tolerant of your frustrations associated with learning new skills.

HOLLY OSLER

December 19, 2025

#14 Royal

100 yards

6 iron

This is Holly’s 5th hole-inone, and her 3rd at HP! Her other HIOs were at River Hall, Babcock Ranch, Royal #5, and Royal #12 (just three months ago!).

ROGER SCOTT

December 23, 2025

#6 Sabal 118 yards

27-degree Hybrid

This is Roger’s 3rd holein-one, and his 2nd at HP! His other two HIOs were on #3 Royal, and in northwest Indiana.

3,021 Books… Plus

JANE BREISCH, LIBRARY CHAIR

Yes, that’s how many books are housed in our very own “self-serve” lending library, located on the 2nd floor of the HP Activity Center! The “plus” is because that number doesn’t include books currently in “circulation” in homes throughout our community. You’re encouraged to stop by and pick a book or two to read – no “check-out” is required. Our library is a free amenity some of our newer members may be unaware of.

In addition to Fiction and Non-fiction books and Biographies, we have quite a variety of over 130 jigsaw puzzles –from 300 to 2000 pieces – located in the center island, in two large cabinets on the right-hand side. (I warn you; they can be addictive). We also have Romance genre books in specially labeled cabinets. We also have audio books and DVD movies on the back wall below our Non-fiction books. Just check out the floor plan chart as you enter to help you find what you’re looking for.

We encourage all residents before you even think about giving away those gently used “in good condition” books, please

drop them off in the designated library bins. If you enjoyed reading them, I’m sure someone else at HP will also take pleasure in them. Due to space concerns, we ask that books be published within the past ten years.

Should you have an interest in joining our dedicated group of 20+ volunteers who help keep our library organized and in tiptop shape, please let me know.

So, come take advantage of this HP “perk,” and stop by to see our extensive selections of puzzles, DVD movies, and many, many books! I promise, you won’t be disappointed!

Read On…

KAREN HARRIS HERITAGEPALMSBOOKCLUB@GMAIL.COM

The HP Book Club will meet on Friday, February 20, at 2:30 p.m. in Activity Room C to discuss My Friends by Fredrik Backman. The novel tells a moving tale of four teenagers whose friendship creates a bond so powerful that it changes a stranger’s life 25 years later. One reviewer described the book as “a tender heartwarming novel exploring the challenges and joys of life itself, of loving and trusting others, of unexpected change and unexpected hope.” Carol Stringer will lead the discussion.

Club meetings are open to all residents who read the book. If you wish to be added to the

HP Book Club mailing list, please email me.

My Friends by Fredrik Backman

Of special interest to book lovers is the upcoming Southwest Florida Reading Festival on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the Fort Myers Regional Library. Kristen Harmel and Wally Lamb are two of the many authors expected to attend. For more information, consult readfest.org.

The Heritage Palms University Club is pleased to present the following February and March 2026 events.

FEBRUARY

Wednesday, 2/4: “Dessert Basics” HP’s own pastry chef, Damian, will demonstrate how to make two of his favorite desserts. He will give us a step-by-step presentation and will provide recipe cards for each dessert. Afterwards we will have tea and be able to taste these two desserts. 2 p.m. in the Palms Dining Room. Charge $10.

Thursday, 2/5: “Where is God in Chronic Illness?” Presented by Lee Health Chaplain Catherine Zdziarski, MA, MDiv, BCC who will facilitate a discussion including helpful tools and ways of living with chronic illness. Do you or a loved one live with chronic illness? The physical and medical care involved wi th chronic illness can be lifechanging and overwhelming. Addressing mental and spiritual needs can be just as demanding. Many find themselves wondering “where is God in chronic illness?” You are not alone. Join us as we discuss this important topic and se arch for answers to this question. 4 p.m. at the Activity Center, Rooms B, C. No charge.

Thursday, 2/12: “Advance Care Planning” presented by local attorney, Kevin Kyle. This presentation will provide important legal and practical considerations associated with advance care planning. Making informed decisions now will be beneficial guidance for the future. 4 p.m. at the Activity Center, Rooms B, C. No charge.

Thursday 2/19: “Adopt a Classroom (it’s easier than you think!)” Presented by HP resident, Andi Stern. Learn how you and some friends (in your golf group, your tennis team, book club, or neighborhood) can connect with a classroom at the Ray V. Pottorf Elementary school. No classroom volunteering is necessary as there are a variety of opportunities to support a teacher and his/her students without requiring the obligation of classroom volunteering. If you wish to help out in the classroom, that option is also available. Teachers need help. Many spend money out of their pockets for supplies within the classroom. Some may need assistance in either grading papers or preparing projects for their young students. You will see how meaningful this experience can be for teachers, students, and supporters alike. 4 p.m. at the Activity Center, Rooms B, C. No charge.

Thursday 2/26: “Mindfulness Meditation” presented by HP activities director, Lisa Schneck. This program will help you learn how to reconnect more deeply with what matters most. You will practice techniques that release stress and enhance your ability to “stay in the moment. ” 4 p.m. at the Activity Center, Rooms B and C. No charge.

MARCH

Thursday, 3/5: “Flower Arranging ” presented by professional florist and HP resident, Michele Feld, will teach us the art of flower arranging. Everyone will create their own arrangement. This is an art form we can all appreciate! 2pm at the Clubhouse patio. Charge TBD.

Thursday, 3/12 “The Players Circle Theater” presented by Julia Melvin. Learn more about this live performing arts center producing professional theatre and musicals plus cabaret and specialty acts of popular jazz. Hear all about their 2026 season! 4 p.m. at the Activity Center, Rooms B and C. No charge.

Thursday, 3/26: “Spring Craft” back by popular request. HP resident Marlene Kluch will provide all materials and hands on instruction for the creation of a springtime craft. 4 p.m. at the Activity Center, Room B. Charge $15 cash.

Register on HP’s website Calendar for the above events. They are open to all HP residents.

Fort Myers Theatres’ Upcoming Productions

JANE BREISCH, EDITOR

Here are four Fort Myers regional theatre offerings. Contact these venues now for the best seats and pricing.

Florida Repertory Theatre , 2268 Bay Street, Fort Myers. The FL Rep is celebrating their 28th season as “one of America’s top repertory theatres” according to the Wall Street Journal . Check their website at https://www.floridarep.org for tickets for the following shows:

• Tuesdays with Morrie By Jeffrey Hatcher and Mitch Albom

Continues through March 1, 2026

ArtStage Studio Theatre

The best-selling book comes to life in this moving autobiographical story following Mitch Albom’s visits to his old professor, Morrie Schwartz, as he battles Lou Gehrig’s Disease. What begins as a simple visit by the career-driven journalist turns into a weekly pilgrimage and a last class on the meaning of life.

• The Play That Goes Wrong By Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer, and Henry Shields

February 13 – March 6, 2026; previews February 10 – 12

Historic Arcade Theatre

This hilarious hybrid of Monty Python and Sherlock Holmes follows a fictitious theatre company’s opening night of The Murder at Haversham Manor where things quickly go from bad to utterly disastrous. Nevertheless, the accident-prone thespians battle against all odds to make it through to their final curtain call, with hysterical consequences!

• Little Shop of Horrors By Howard Ashman and Alan Menken

March 20 – April 12, 2026; previews March 17 –19

Historic Arcade Theatre

The musical is based on the 1960s B-movie by Roger Corman and features book and lyrics by Howard Ashman and music by Alan Menken. The story is packed with laughs, thrills, chills, and Motown and doo-wop-inspired hit songs and follows down-on-his-luck Seymour who pines for his beautiful co-worker at Mushnik’s Skid Row Florist.

Productions

• Girls Night: The Musical March 11 – 29, 2026

ArtStage Studio Theatre

Girls Night has been thrilling audiences and earning raves from critics throughout North America since it began touring after its sensational Off-Broadway debut. This touching and hilarious “tell-it-like-it-is” musical takes audiences on a journey into the lives of a group of female friends.

• Denise Fennell’s The Bride: Or, Does This Dress Make Me Look Married? By Rick Pasqualone

April 10 – May 10, 2026; previews April 7 – 9

ArtStage Studio Theatre

Tour-de-force actress Denise Fennell, the scrappy Sister from last summer’s Late Nite Catechism , tackles the meaning of love, life, and the ritual of marriage. Drawing inspiration from her own life – and the advice of the audience – “The Bride” tackles the decision of a lifetime: Will she, or won’t she?

Players Circle Theater, 13211 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers (only 20 minutes from HP!). Started by FL Repertory Theatre founders Bob Cacioppo and Carrie Lund, Players Circle is in its eighth season. Check their website at https://www.playerscircle.org for tickets for the following shows:

• Over the Tavern By Tom Dudzick February 13 – March 8; previews February 10 – 12

A beguiling family comedy set in Buffalo in the Eisenhower 1950s. The Pazinski family has a lot going on in their cramped apartment over Dad’s bar. But all hell breaks loose, when 12-year-old, wise-cracking Rudy questions being Catholic.

• 4,000 Miles By Amy Herzog March 20 – April 5; previews March 17 – 19

A Pulitzer Prize Finalist! After a crosscountry bike trip, young Leo makes an unplanned visit to his feisty 91-year-old grand-mother Vera in her Greenwich Village apartment. Over the course of a single month these unlikely roommates, infuriate, bewilder, and ultimately reach each other in this charming dramedy.

• I Loved, I Lost, I Made Spaghetti By Giulia Melucci

April 17 – May 3; previews April 14 – 16

This tasty comedy invites you into Giulia’s kitchen as she recounts a string of botched romances and failed love affairs while preparing a home cooked meal.

• Same Time, Next Year By Bernard Slade May 22 – June 7; previews May 19 – 21

One of the most popular romantic comedies of the last century, Same Time, Next Year ran four years on Broadway, winning multiple Tony Awards. The plot follows a love affair between two people, Doris and George, married to others, who rendezvous once a year. Twenty-five years of manners and morals are hilariously and touchingly played out by the lovers.

The Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. 239-278-4422.

Check their website at https://broadwaypalm. com/. for tickets for the following shows:

• Fiddler on the Roof, the Musical Continues through February 14, 2026

• Cats February 20 to April 4, 2026

• All Shook Up – Featuring the Songs of Elvis Presley

April 10 to May 16, 2026

• The Sounds of 1967 – A Summer that Changed Everything May 22 to June 20, 2026

• The Wizard Z June 26 to August 8, 2025

Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. For further info on their 2025-26 Broadway Series go to: https://www.bbmannpah.com.

• & Juliet – February 3 to 8, 2026

• Back to the Future, the Musical –February 17 to 22, 2026

• Mamma Mia! – March 10 to 15, 2026

• Kimberly Akimbo – April 1 to 5, 2026

• Moulin Rouge, the Musical – April 7 to 12, 2026

HP Craft Show Returning March 23

LYNNE THOMPSON

LYNNEBOBFLA@EARTHLINK.NET

The Heritage Palms Spring Craft Show will be held in the Palms Dining Room on Monday, March 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Please mark your calendars and plan to stop by and see what great talents are right here in our neighborhood. This show will be on a smaller scale due to the lack of vendor space and parking, and is only open to Heritage Palms vendors.

We could really use a jewelry vendor as we don’t have any at this time. If we don’t

get at least ten vendors, we will cancel this event. If you’re interested in being a vendor, please email me at: lynnebobfla@earthlink.net or call me at 239-277-0055. In mid-February I’ll email individual registration forms and waiver forms to those who have contacted me wanting to participate in the event.

A Dozen Eggs for $2.75? Really?

JANE BREISCH, EDITOR

Yes! And you don’t even have to leave the community! Where do you find this “deal,” and others like it? At HP’s own Market Place, where groceries are made available for purchase, at very competitive prices, by our Food & Beverage Department.

Market Place was launched in 2020, in response to the Covid pandemic. The Club wanted to offer our members ready-access to groceries without having to leave the property. It was decided to continue to offer this amenity, so you should think about taking advantage of it!

How does it work? It’s simple. Check out the sidebar which includes the Market Place “menu.” Call in your order between the hours of 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., and pick it up the following day between the hours of 12 to 4 p.m. What’s available? You can order a delicious, melt-in-your-mouth, 6-ounce filet for $7.50; a scrumptious 11-ounce haddock filet for $6; a delectable 8-ounce salmon filet for $6.50; four 8-ounce hamburgers for $10.50; a one-pound bag of shrimp for $7, and, as mentioned, a dozen eggs for $2.75. Also available are quarts of your favorite chili, chicken salad, or egg salad.

So… check over the Market Place menu, and start planning some great meals! Bon Appetit!

MEMBERS ENJOYING THE

LIGHTING CEREMONY FESTIVITIES.

A Great Egret at HP

ALL

PHOTOS

BY ED KELLER.

L-R: LEN & JOY ADDLEY, ANNA BENKO, AND FERMAN MUDFORD.

L-R: SHAWN & MELANIE MCMAHON, MELISSA SCULLY, AND GARY FRANDY.

L-R: DAN & VICKI DAUN, AND KIM & DARRELL MORRIS.

L-R: MIKE & ROSEMARY MCPHERSON, AND ALLAN & CATHERINE POTECHIN.

L-R: BILL & BOBBI DEROCHER, AND JODI & KEITH OLIVER.

L-R: ROD & BETTY RUPPEL, AND SHARON & JIM WILSON.