Stay in the Bay to me and an integral part of my ability to fulfill that responsibility. Or, more simply put, as my infinitely better half often reminds me, the good Lord has given me two ears and one mouth, and I plan to use them in that proportion! Thank you in advance for your active engagement and thoughtful feedback — not to mention your patience — as I continue to learn everything I can about Pelican Bay. Internal and external assessment It probably goes without saying that a thorough audit of the member experience (which, by the way, I define as any touchpoint with our brand) is the only way for me to fully assess its value. I will work closely with our outstanding team to identify opportunities — social, recreational and otherwise — to make incremental improvements, refine the lifestyle experience and enhance the overall value proposition for our residential, commercial and staff members. With that, of course, I’ll continue to evaluate the management team and staff, seek to understand the positive contributions of every employee in this organization and establish a clear, well-defined culture of hospitality, genuine care, accountability and excellence. It is also vitally important that we gain an accurate understanding of our uniqueness in the Southwest Florida real estate market. Studying competitors is important as we benchmark facilities, programs, services and rates against the very best in the business (I have a head start on this process, as I have been doing just that in Naples for the last eight years). You will be learning more about this as we continue our efforts to actively refresh the Pelican Bay brand. Focus forward Although, admittedly, it is difficult to see past the day-to-day, more pressing demands of the community, I will soon have my eyes fixed firmly on the horizon. Meeting present-day needs is important — and we will do that — but that pales in comparison to enhancing the already brisk demand for Pelican Bay real estate well into the future. Together with the Board, committees, management team and staff, we will continue to leverage our unique assets, analyze and forecast trend development and evolve our lifestyle offerings to better align with your ever-changing needs and expectations — and, in doing so, ensure the long-term sustainability of this exceptional community. In closing I’d be remiss not to congratulate and thank outgoing President, Jim Hoppensteadt, for his 17 years of outstanding service to Pelican Bay. Scouting was not my thing as a kid, but my wife and I did raise an Eagle Scout. One of the many amazing lessons these young men are taught is a quote by Adrian Rogers. It serves as both practical advice for their camping adventures, and a metaphor for a life well lived: “Always leave the woodpile higher than you found it.” When considering the many ‘puts and takes’ that go with the position Jim held for so long, it’s clear to see that the woodpile here is indeed higher than it was 17 years ago. Many of you have added to that woodpile, thus contributing to the great success he and his team have enjoyed. Pelican Bay is a fine community, to be sure — and you all have a great deal to be proud of! Our journey together is just beginning. With a long, rich history and an incredibly bright future, Pelican Bay is extremely well positioned for continued improvement, sustained growth in property value and even greater long-term success — all while delivering the coastal lifestyle in paradise you and your family have come to expect. I am honored to serve as your president; I’m humbled by the confidence you have placed in me, and I look forward to co-creating our future together. With kind regards and tremendous respect, Tony Tony D’Errico, CCM, CCE, CAM President, Pelican Bay Foundation, Inc. a message from the president. . .continued from page 24 Pelican Bay Member Guide 2024 26 PelicanBay.org
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