This issue of The Happenings features an interview with Lorraine Murphy, one of the first owners here in TGO, and someone whose volunteerism and love for TGO runs deep. She is the founder of our Lorriane Murphy Historic Center and our first ever Volunteer of the Year in 2009. This week our tennis courts will be closed as we re-level and resurface them. Soon our tennis players will return to their newly resurfaced courts for the season. This week we will also continue to improve our concrete cart paths on our golf course, so golfers, watch out for some detours!
Our CSA staff who work outside felt some cool mornings this week, and finally some relief from the heat and humidity. I am thankful that the tropics are beginning to cool down and the threat of major storms is decreasing. We are certainly seeing the arrival of our seasonal residents returning to TGO now, which brings a renewed energy into our community. It’s exciting to see our community come alive again with many social events. This issue of The Happenings is thick with activities, clubs and events designed to re-connect you with friends, and opportunities to meet new residents. Fall is also a time when we wrap up our summer improvement projects, and we begin discussing new CSA business and future planning. Much of our new business begins at the committee level. Managing this association requires participation and engagement from our owners. There are always several openings on committees. Are you interested in getting more involved in your community? Your new voice may help bring a different perspective to the table. You will find notices for committee vacancies on pages 13, 64 and 73 of this issue of The Happenings. Applications to join a committee are found here in the CSA office. Keep your eye out for more committee vacancies in future issues.
This week we take some time to celebrate our CSA employees with a fun 9-hole employee golf tournament on Thursday afternoon, followed by our fall Employee Breakfast on Friday morning hosted by our Board of Directors. We have more fun planned on Halloween Day, which falls on Friday, October 31 this year. You are invited to join us for a CSA Office Open House on Halloween anytime from 2-4:00pm. Come walk through our offices and meet our administrative team dressed up for Halloween, gather some tricks or treats along the way, and see a display of carved pumpkins in the Juke Box Recreation Room! Please also bring us your carved pumpkins for display, details are in this issue.
Recently two of our CSA senior staff members announced their retirement dates. Golf Professional Chuck Kandt will retire effective January 3 after eight years of service. Recreation Manager Carmella Galley will retire on February 1 after five years of service. Both have done a tremendous job for us and will be dearly missed from our team. I am working on plans to celebrate their retirements and developing a recruiting strategy to fill these important positions.
Mark your calendar, our Fall Happenings Business Expo is on Wednesday, October 29 from 1 to 4:00pm. Please come meet the people and businesses who regularly advertise in The Happenings. They’ll be here at The Manor to speak with you directly about their products and services
Sincerely,
Billy Specht CSA Manager
On the Cover:
Rates
Under Armour Tops, Foot Joy Tops, Foot Joy Shoes, Cutter & Buck Ladies Collection, Bridgestone and Srixon Gloves
Subject to Change With or Without Advanced Notice TGO Golf Carts available for 9 holes only after 3:30 (time subject to change)
Are
Available At The Golf Shop
7 Hole Avengers
Not ready for 9 or 18 holes? Want to learn more with an easy scramble event that covers the first 7 holes? Then come join the Avengers every Tuesday at 3:00 pm. Meet new friends, have fun and learn the basics of golf. Everyone is welcome. Sign up at the Golf Shop.
TGO 9 Hole Fun League
Ladies and Gentlemen - TGO has a 9 hole “play your own ball” weekly league on Saturdays. Play will begin at 3:00 pm (tee times start). Sign-up info will be posted on the bulletin board at the golf shop. You can sign up as a group or individual.
by TGO PGA Professional Chuck Kandt Clinic Information is posted on the information board at the Golf Shop. Private Golf Lessons are Available by Appointment only. Tokens can be purchased in the golf shop.
MGA
Come Join our TGO Men’s Golf Association
• Membership fee is only $30.00 for a year of fun!
• Prizes and special event luncheons and end of year dinner!
• Tournaments every Wednesday! Sign-up at the TGO Pro Shop
2025 - 2026 Golf Calendar
November 5 Annual “MGA Welcome Back Scramble & Luncheon”
November 12 “1-2-3” Best Ball Team Competition
November 19 Annual “Turkey Shootout” Better Ball
November 26 Team Better Ball Tourney (1 on 3’s, 2 on 4’s, 3 on 5’s) + MGA Membership Meeting
December 3 Annual Team Skins Competition
December 10 Annual “MGA/LGA Holiday Scramble” & Luncheon
December 17 Team Better Ball (Count 2 on #1-9, Count 3 on #10-18)
December 24 No MGA Golf (Christmas Eve)
December 31 No MGA Golf (New Year’s Eve)
January 7 President’s Cup 1st Round Matches
January 9 Friday - President’s Cup 2nd Round Matches
January 14 President’s Cup 3rd Round Matches + “Count 2” BB Game
January 16 Friday - President’s Cup Final Flight Matches (4)
January 21 MGA “9 Hole Stableford Team Tourney” 9:00 am
January 21 President’s Cup Semi-Final & Final Matches, 1:00 pm
January 28 Annual “Pink Chump Ball” Tourney + MGA Membership Meeting
February 4 Annual “MGA Member-Guest & 2 Man Better Ball Tourney”
February 11 Annual “Canadian Flag Open”
February 18 & 20 Annual MGA Club Championships
February 25 Team Better Ball Tourney (3 on 3’s, 2 on 4’s, 1 on 5’s)
March 4
Annual “MGA Away Day” - Location to be Announced
March 9 “Member-Member” Opening Social, 5:00 pm in the Manor
March 10, 11, 12 31st Annual “Member-Member” Tournament
March 13 “Member-Member Closing Banquet & Awards Night,” 5:00 pm
March 18 Annual “US Flag Open”
March 25 Annual “MGA Beat the Pros Closing Tournament” + BarBQ Luncheon, Awards & MGA Annual Meeting
Come Join our TGO Ladies Golf Association
• Membership fee is only $40.00 for a year of fun!
• Prizes and special event luncheons.
• Tournaments every Monday! Sign-up at the TGO Pro Shop
2025 - 2026 Golf Calendar
October 20 Breast Cancer Tournament
October 27 Invite a Friend
November 3
Scramble - Tee Up Luncheon
November 10 Trouble
November 17 2-Person Team Better Ball
November 24 Los Gross/Low Net
December 1
Bingo/Bango/Bongo
December 8 Team Stableford
December 10 MGA/LGA Day - Pro Shop Sanctioned Event
December 15 Low Gross/Low Net Throw out 2 worst scores or Three Blind Mice
December 22 Santas vs. Elves
December 29 Par 3 Game - New Year’s Theme
January 5
2-Person Team Scramble
January 12 4-Person Team Better Ball 3-2-1
January 19 Los Gross/Low Net Low Putts
January 26 Odds or Evens
February 2 Low Gross/Low Net Throw out worst Par 5, Par 4, Par 3
February 9 Valentine’s Day Tournament
February 16-17 Club Championship* Tee Times Party after play on 17th
February 23 4 Club & Putter
March 2
Scramble Annual Meeting
March 9 Team Match Play
March 16-17
Member-Member* Tee Times Party after play on 17th
March 20 St. Patrick’s Day Tournament Pro Shop Sanctioned Event
March 23 Modified Nassau
March 30 Low Gross/Low Net
April 6
Scramble Awards Lunch
April 13 Low Gross/Low Net
April 20 Low Gross/Low Net
April 27 Fun Day Party after play in Pavilion
*20% participation required for major tournament eligibility
Linda Bouvet Tournament Chair
Pam Nalley 2025 LGA Champion
Mikki Dodge and Nancy Matroniano 2025 Member Member Champions
Bill Schueller President
Roy Houtby Tournament Chair
Cliff Murray 2025 MGA Champion
2025 / 2026
Golf Membership Program
Register At The Golf Shop - Program Effective 10/1/25
TGO Resident
Non-TGO Resident
- 12
All Prices are subject to 7% sales tax
Prices include unlimited golf course play and cart use when playing golf (blackout dates may apply).
Couple pricing includes up to two (2) children 18 and under still living at home. Additional children are $250 each plus tax
Refer a new member and receive a complimentary 18 hole round for a guest New Member Criteria Not on the active member list the past two programs
Not an employee the past three calendar years (2022-present)
** Referral must be stated prior to payment being made
Membership Benefits
• Golf Shop Merchandise Discounts - 20% on Tops/Bottoms- 10% on Accessories and Equipment
Merchandise discounts are applied to original tagged prices. Special sale items may not have member prices.
• Reduced individual range coin pricing. Currently 50%
• TGO Bag Tag or Name Strip if a renewing member
• Complimentary Guest Passes - Based on chosen category of membership
NEW - Hospitality House Account Credit at Blue Heron
• Each membership will receive a House Account at the Blue Heron that includes Charging privileges - Plus: 9 & 12 Month Memberships will receive a one-time $70 for SGL or $100 for CPL credit to their accounts
4 & 6 Month Memberships will receive a one-time $40 for SGL or $70 for CPL credit to their accounts
• All accounts will be invoiced at the end of each month via email provided at sign up
• All accounts are to be paid in full within 15 days to keep your account active
• Existing golf members may stop by the CSA office to open a House Account but are not elegible for SGL or CPL credits until membership is renewed.
Complimentary USGA GHIN Handicap Service if requested (Service begins 1/1/26)
Add-On Range Program - Unlimited Range Use
• Must match selected membership program - (number of months) and be purchased at time of membership Single = $55 Per Month Couple = $80 Per Month
There are currently no lifetime memberships available.
The Great Outdoors Golf Course 137 Plantation Drive, Titusville, Florida 32780 • 321-269-5524 x2 • tgogolfpro@tgocsa.com www.thegreatoutdoorsgolf.com
They come with an Eight Year Warranty! They also include a new charger, battery meter, and receptacle.
Cost including installation is only $2,200 plus tax.
Stop by if you have any questions.
BattLite is a high-quality, safe, and reliable lithium battery designed primarily for golf carts. They utilize LiFePO4 (lithium iron phosphate) technology, incorporating safety features such as multiple levels of protection and an intelligent Battery Management System (BMS).
Locking Glove Box
Adjustable Drive Mode And Much More!
We also carry 2025 Certified pre-owned Club Cars starting at $7,995, includes a 2 year Warranty!
Open Mon thru Fri - 8:00 am to 4:30 pm • Sat - 9:00 am to Noon • Closed Sunday
Proceeds Benefit the Jess Parrish Medical Foundation • Four Person, 18 Hole Scramble Format • Golf Cart Included • Lunch with Cash Bar • Prizes for Course Events • 50/50 Raffle, Basket Raffles, Mulligans
• This Event is Open to Everyone Supporting Parrish Healthcare Oncology in providing lifesaving mammograms for uninsured and underinsured patients in North Brevard
MGA- October 1
Match Play Challenge
Matches Won
1st Steve Wright 13.5
2nd Rick Conover 12.5
3rd John Johndrow 12.0
4th Bill Pafford 11.5
5th Guy Sullivan 9.0
6th Corey Krueger 8.0
SKINS GAME
Corey Krueger #9, #14, #18
Al McGuire #6
Jim Foley #12
Harold Gero #10
Bill Pafford #10
Steve Wright #8
Closest to Hole #8
Steve Wright
MGA- October 8
The Hawk
Group Winners
Group 1 - Rick Conover
Group 2 - Tom Robbins
Group 3 - TIE Guy Sullivan & Rob Hunter
Group 4 - Gary Wittstock
Top 2 Remaining point getters
1 - John Johndrow
2 - Corey Krueger
Skins Game Winners
Rick Conover #1
Gary Wittstock #2
Ken Garasz #3
Closest to Hole #16
Tom Robbins
LGA - October 13
Individual Stroke Play Gross / Net Scoring
1st Flight / GROSS
1st Pam Nalley 81 2nd Lydia Couch 84
NET
1st Carol Votto 73
2nd Mary Laverty 77
Closest to Hole #11 Denise Charpentier
2nd Flight / GROSS
1st Linn Avery 100 2nd Colleen Marigliano 103
NET
1st Denise Charpentier 79 2nd ammy DeVries 82
9ers - Individual Stroke Play - NET scoring
1st Karri Conover 41
2nd Betsi Harris 42
Closest to Hole #4 Betsi Harris
Chuck’s Happy Halloween Couples In Costume
All TGO Members, Residents and Their Guests are Invited to Play
YOUR HOSTS: Chuck & Lu Ann Kandt
Remember these costumes from the 2023 tournament?
Halloween Golf - Not at TGO!
Up north, October golf is basically a haunted house in plaid pants. You’ve got ghostly fog rolling across the fairways, trees dropping leaves like confetti at a funeral, and every drive comes with a free round of Trick or Treat - trick, it’s in the woods; treat, you actually find it. By hole six, the golfers look like zombies: stiff, staggering, and moaning about frost delays. Hit a shot down the middle? Doesn’t matter. The “Leaf Monster” has devoured it, never to be seen again. Lost balls pile up like skeletons in a closet. Every putt feels cursed, and the real vampire is the cold wind sucking the life right out of you.
Meanwhile, in Florida, especially at TGO, Halloween golf is all treats and no tricks. No frost delays, no haunted forests of orange and red - just sunshine, palm trees, and maybe a gator grinning like a jack-o’-lantern in the pond. Our biggest scare? Running out of sunscreen.
Up north, golf in October is a horror show. Down here, it’s a year-round costume part - shorts, polos, and smiles. Enjoy!
October 17 - 3:00pm - Blue Heron Nest
Seminar By Orthopedic Dr. Sands
All TGO Residents are invited to attend. Refreshments will be served. See page 15 for reservation details.
October 19 - TGO Community Church
Operation Christmas Child - Kick Off
This is a great cause to help children in need - brought to you by the Samaritan’s Purse and TGO Church. See page 27 for details.
October 20 - 8:00am - Golf Shop
LGA Breast Cancer Tournament
This annual event benefits the Jess Parrish Medical Foundation. Register to play at the Golf Shop.
October 21 - 1:00pm - The Manor
Activities Committee Meeting
All TGO Residents are invited to attend. This is the first meeting of the Season - Here is your opportunity to get involved with this great volunteer oganization.
October 26 - 3:00 to 5:30pm
Trick or Treat in TGO - See Page 14
All TGO owners/renters and employees are invited
October 29 - 1:00 to 4:00pm - The Manor
Happenings Business Expo - See Page 14
Meet The Advertisers In The Happenings. All TGO Residents are invited to attend. Chance to win some great door prizes.
October 31 - 2:00 to 4:00pm - CSA Office
Halloween Open House - Pumpkin Carving Contest
All TGO Residents are invited to attend. Enter the Pumpkin Carving Contest - 1st, 2nd 3rd place prizes. See info this page.
November 1 - 7:00am - Noon
Community Yard Sale - Get Your Junk Ready!
All TGO Residents - Grab your carts and go buy stuff!
November 8 - 8:00am - The Manor
Artisian Market - Arts, Crafts & Food
All TGO Residents are invited to attend.
November 11 - 10:00am - TGO Church
Veterans Day Breakfast - Honoring TGO Women
All TGO Residents are invited - See page 29 for more info.
November 13 - 9:00am - Blue Heron
Roy Malphurs - Edward Jones
All TGO Residents are invited - See page 57 for more info.
November 13 - 7:30pm - The Manor
The Edge Effect - First Show of the Season!
Tickets Available at the Activities Office in Hobbyland.
November 14 & 15 - 4:30pm - The Manor
Two Nights - Trivia I & II
Tickets Available at the Activities Office in Hobbyland
November 23 - 10:00am - TGO Church
Tribute Quartet in Concert
All TGO Residents are invited to attend. Refreshments will be served afterward.
December 3 - 7:00pm - TGO Church
Christmas Cantata
All TGO Residents are invited to attend. Refreshments will be served afterward.
December 4 - 3:30pm - Rally Parking Lot
Golf Cart Parade - Pizza Afterwards
All TGO Residents are invited to attend. 1st, 2nd & 3rd place prizes for Best Decorated Carts. Details in future issues.
October 31 -2:00 to 4:00 pm
Halloween Open House - CSA Offices
The CSA office is hosting a Halloween Open House from 2:00 to 4:00 pm on Friday, October 31. Grab your trick-or-treat bag from the front office and collect candy at each office on your tour!
Pumpkin Carving Contest
Limiting entries to 30 pumpkins. Pumpkins must be brought to the CSA office between 10:00 am and 1:00 pm on October 31.
Call 321-268-9767 to reserve your space. Prizes for 1st, 2nd & 3rd place!
Candidates Needed!
The Community Services Association has the following positions open for election:
NOTE: For ARC, there will also be a special election for an ARC Chairman and a District 5 replacement
Election day is Monday, January 26, 2026 in the Plantation Manor
10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Photo ID is required to vote.
Members elected will serve a two-year term. The Board of Directors are responsible for the entire operation of The Great Outdoors Community Services Association.
The Architectural Review Committee maintains standards of appearance for TGO property changes that are visible outside.
This is YOUR community.
Please contact a member of the Election Committee if you would like to be a candidate!
Martha Brown 321-268-9119
John P. Dougherty 631-790-1159
Blaine Littlefield 207-798-2279
Vicki Littlefield 207-798-2278
Kathy O'Brien 716-704-3284
Diana Pafford 276-492-0043
Election Committee
There is an opening for owners who wish to serve on the Election Committee. An application needs to be completed to apply for committees. Stop by the CSA office to pick up an application form or go online to our website: www.tgocsa.org then click on CSA Documents/ Forms/Application for Committee Assignment. Fill out the form and bring it to the CSA office.
Wednesday, October 29 - 1:00 to 4:00 pm Inside The Manor
We Have A FULL Group of Advertisers Participating!
FREE Drawing for Gifts, Prizes and Gift Certificates
FREE Coff ee - FREE Cookies - FREE Ice Cream! * * While They Last
TICKETS
Available NOW
Activities O ce In Hobbyland
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2025 - 7:30 PM
Performing songs by Michael Bublé, Frank Sinatra, Chicago, Michael Jackson and more
Orthopaedic Surgeon Dr. Kenneth Sands
At The Blue Heron Restaurant - Nest 137 Plantation Drive, Titusville, FL 32780
Friday, October 17 - 3:00 pm Light refreshments will be served
Dr. Sands will speak about and why you shouldn’t let Joint Pain keep you from doing the things you love.
Dr. Kenneth Sands is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon. A pioneer in advanced joint replacement technique. His specialties include:
• Hip replacements (anterior and revision)
• Knee replacements (kinematic, partial and revision)
• Knee arthroscopy
• Open reduction internal fixation for hip fractures
Dr. Sands earned a bachelor’s degree from Duke University and received his medical degree from Tulane University in New Orleans. He completed an orthopedic surgery residency at SUNY Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn and a fellowship in adult joint reconstruction at the Florida Orthopaedic Institute in Tampa.
He is a diplomate of the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery. His professional memberships include the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons and American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. He is actively involved in implant design and education and has delivered presentations at national and international conferences. He is a former staff surgeon for the U.S. Army.
Dr. Sands has cared for patients in Central Florida since 2011. He believes mobility is the key to a healthy life and is passionate about helping patients restore their function.
Saturday, November 1
7:00am to Noon
Time to clean out those garages and storage units!
Introducing The Automated Door App for Fitness Center, Hobby Land and The Juke Box
The Great Outdoors is excited to announce that CSA will be using the pdk.io App and Fob for the automated doors at the Fitness Center, Hobby Land and The Juke Box. The transition will begin after Labor Day weekend. As we transition to the new system, CSA requests that you call to make an appointment by calling CSA at 321-268-9767. Recreation Doors will be open for regular business hours as usual each day, no Fob or App needed during those hours. For after hours, the current key will still be functioning for entry until we conclude our transition. Please be patient as we transition, CSA will accommodate all residents as they return to The Great Outdoors through the Fall busy season. There are two options:
1) Schedule your appointment, exchange key for the new Fob that we activate at our CSA Office. If you don’t have a key, you may purchase a Fob for $20.00 and activate it with us in the CSA office.
2) Schedule an appointment and return your key for a $10.00 refund and activate your pdk.io App for Free. We will ask you a few questions, you will download the FREE pdk.io App on your cell phone. Our CSA office will activate the App and pdk.io will send an invitation to your email for you to activate. You will set up your own access on your cell phone with the code they send you to activate the App. You can then use your cell phone for access and use after hours. Even easier, if no key to exchange - CSA can gather your information and send you the invitation. You can set it up yourself on your cell phone at your convenience.
Sunday, Oct 26 - 3:00 - 5:30 pm
For Those Handing Out Treats
Starting at noon Friday, Oct 10, please visit my porch at 542 Fairways Dr. to sign up and take a numbered Pumpkin Stake. If you wish to gather in a group to hand out treats, please note the address on the sign-up sheet and estimate how many will be in your group at that address. The sign-up sheet provides for this new option.
On the day of the event, place your pumpkin stake at your curb so the kids will know you are participating. I suggest planning for approximately 75 treats. After the event, we will pick up the pumpkin stakes from the curb
Kids Looking For Treats
Send an email to ecrtwright1@gmail.com to let me know how many kids will be in your group. I will send back an email no later than Sunday Noon on 10/26 listing the locations to visit on 10/26. The activity is open to children or relatives of TGO owners/renters and TGO employees. Please be courteous and have fun!!!
Ellen Cartwright: 542 Fairways Dr. ecrtwright1@gmail.com 248-330-7691
Executive
Porch
Accessory
Custom
Bath
Door
Hardwood
Tile
Concrete
Drywall
Custom
Entertainment
Siding
Trim
Crown
BETTY SALTER TAKES THE HELM AS NATURE CENTER PRESIDENT
We Find That Many Folks Aren’t Aware…
The Nature Center at TGO is a non-profit 501c(3), receives no funding from the CSA. We are considered a vital part of our community.
We rely COMPLETELY on:
FALL FUN FAIR & PLANT PALOOZA
The Nature Center at The Great Outdoors is pleased to announce Betty Salter as the center’s new president. Betty brings a wealth of knowledge, personal contacts and experience to the Nature Center, with an impressive background in education, wildlife knowledge, and groundbreaking work at the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge. Here at TGO she dedicates tireless work as a TGO Wildlife Rescue and Nature Center Trail Guide, and spent years rescuing wildlife at TGO and the surrounding area. She has also led the Nature Center Trail hikes every Monday and Wednesday during “the season” for over 10 years.
• Membership Dues
A DEDICATED VOLUNTEER
• Individual and Organization Donations
• Furniture and Items Donated for Resale
• T-Shirt Sales
• Calendar Sales
Betty’s career began in education, where she was with the school board and an exceptional education teacher assistant. In 1999 she began working for Parks and Recreation, North Area Parks Operation Office, where she initiated many innovative programs. She and her late husband Cary retired in February 2008.
These funds are necessary to maintain:
• Nature Center Building
• Security Systems
• Lawn and Grounds
• Driveway
All are Invited! Admission is FREE !
Join us at the Nature Center at TGO for our Fall Fair, Hot Dog Roast and Plant Palooza!
tours, and to re-introduce golf cart tours of the Blue Heron Water Treatment Plant. Betty realizes many of our TGO residents work during the week, and she hopes to have Saturday morning hikes and more weekend programs.
Saturday, November 15, 2025 10:00am - 2:00pm
A true life-learner, Betty’s passion is to share the joy of nature with others, whether it’s knowledge of plants, wildlife, wildlife rescue and preservation, or simply the general love of being outdoors.
Bring your appetite! We’ll be selling delicious grilled hot dogs, chips, and drinks - $5 for the combo, while supplies last. Many fun fall activities and exhibits are being planned for your whole family to enjoy, including a TGO-style hayride!
In the Plant Palooza section you will be able to buy, sell, or swap plants with other TGO residents and learn about Florida’s native plants! You can donate plants to the Nature Center to sell - or swap your plants.
We look forward to seeing you at The Nature Center.
Betty has devoted over 7,000 hours of volunteer time to the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. A friend at the refuge encouraged her to consider living in TGO. Betty and Cary moved to The Great Outdoors in October of 2014, and immediately became immersed with The Nature Center. Betty had known Sandy Juba for some time, as Sandy volunteered at the refuge as well. Their great friendship and desire to rescue and teach others about wildlife and nature took off from there.
• Building Utilities
• Storage Facilities
• Trails
• Recruit Speakers
• Create/Curate Displays
• Create Educational Materials
Betty jokes that one of the first steps to get involved with wildlife rescue, at Sandy’s insistence, was to overcome her fear of snakes. After researching snakes for many months and creating brochures about them, she overcame her fears, and has frequently rescued many of them! She also became very active with Firewise. Betty initiated the Spring Festival at the Nature Center. She previously developed large festivals for the county and wanted to develop a smaller festival here. Sandy Juba gave Betty a list of local vendors to contact, and the annual festival was launched, continues to grow and become a fund raiser for the center.
NATIVE FLORA AND FAUNA
Do you love the Nature Trails, Hikes, Speakers and all the opportunities living here that the Nature Center provides? Then please consider becoming a member, making a monetary donation, or a donation of furniture or other household items. We are all volunteers working very hard to continue to educate and bring nature to our community.
ONLINE
SALES ARE BACK!
For questions, or to reserve a table at Plant Palooza, please email Tracy Yinger at tyinger218@yahoo.com or Betty Salter at ncpresident23@gmail.com
NEW - Nature Center T-Shirts
Betty’s nature expertise includes extensive studies of native Florida plants and insects. One of her many butterfly studies led to the discovery of new species not known to our area. (The Variegated Fritillary was not known to be in Brevard County and the Eastern Pygmy Blue was not expected to be west of I-95 but we have it in the marsh here!) Betty’s goals are to develop programs to get more people involved with the nature center’s hikes, displays and talks.
We will also be selling NEW “Nature Center at TGO” T-shirts that feature our new Nature Center logo. Shirts will have a classic crew neckline, as well as Ladies tees. See you there!
Sandra Miraglia is eager to sell your gently used unwanted furniture and other household items online. All proceeds go directly to the Nature Center! Thank you to all those who donate. Every item helps!
PLANS FOR THE NATURE
CENTER
TEXT Sandra Miraglia at 727-483-2493 or email her at moon001414@hotmail.com.
Ideas she plans to implement include nature golf cart tours in the community, Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival bird
Photo was taken immediately after Betty rescued this fawn from drowning. The fawn was reunited with its mother shortly after. (Note: Betty says one should never touch a fawn - she was holding this one as
Betty Salter on the Betty Salter trail January 8, discussing a recently shedded snake skin. From right: Julie Gifford, Cindy Hinkle, Sandra
Editorial by Linda Day
Nature Center President Betty Salter is growing plants and getting ready to share them at the Fall Fair Plant Palooza!
Nature Center Presents our EXCITING NEW 2026 SPEAKER SERIES!
comfort overnight, and the next day Sandy took it to a rehabber in Christmas. The rehabber discovered the female possum had a broken jaw, with injured babies in its pouch. Sadly, the mother had to be euthanized and two babies are clinging to life. We are heartbroken about the outcome for this sweet family of opossums, but grateful for compassionate people among us who gave comfort and tried to help.
Thank you Nancy, Sandy and Donna.
CELEBRATE GOPHER TORTOISE DAY!
January 14: Reiner Munguia will talk about bird migration and the birds we see here during the winter season.
The Nature Center at TGO will celebrate Gopher Tortoise Day with TGO NatureScape at Tortoiseville (accessible on the Doggie Walk) on Thursday, April 10 from 3 to 6 p.m.
January 21: Frank Robb will enlighten us about the living dinosaurs that inhabit our lakes.
January 28: Shawnlei Breeding will speak about the Eagle Watch Program and our eagles around TGO.
Credit: Vero Beach Magazine
Photo February 4: Jim Sawgrass will speak about Florida panthers.
May 27 is the average start to our rainy season in Florida, so the St. Johns river is very low now, opening up lots of nearby hiking
quickly came to its rescue. Nancy gave the sweet possum
Nature Center Board
President Bet ty Salter ncpresident23@gmail.com
Vice President Donna Pittman ncvp23@gmail.com
Treasurer Loretta Annè nctreasurer23@gmail.com
Secretary Pat Dick ncsecretary23@gmail.com
Other Points Of Contact
Injured Animals - Please contact these specialists
Sandy Juba 321-543-0502 sjubatgo@gmail.com
Betty Salter 321-223-8073 bet tysalter@hotmail.com
Stories and Articles for The Happenings: nchappenings23@gmail.com
NATURE CENTER AT TGO
400 Nature Center Trail, Titusville, FL 32780
Open 8:00 am to 5:00 pm 365 days a year
www.NatureCenterAtTGO.org
Facebook - Nature Center at TGO
To schedule the use of our meeting room on M/W/F mornings or T/Th afternoons, call the Manor - 321-264-2393
To schedule the meeting room at any other time OR our beautiful enclosed porch, call Loretta Annè - 321-385-9667 The Nature Center at The Great Outdoors is a 501(c)(3) non-profit self-supporting organization. Donations may be tax deductible.
February 11: Shari Blisset Clark will talk about bats and bat houses.
February 18: Dr. Robert Taylor - The tortoises of The Great Outdoors. February 25: Jim Dellinger will be speaking about Sandhill Cranes.
TGO FIREWISE INFORMATION
RESIDENTS REDUCING WILDFIRE RISKS
Visit tgocsa.org to view Firewise video and brochure or TGO Firewise on Facebook
Remember, you must have written permission to remove any living shrubs or trees beyond your property line. Contact CSA if you have questions about removal and consult the Architectural Review Board before making landscape changes.
Emergency Evacuations - When is it time to leave TGO?
By Ed Brown
Most of the residents of The Great Outdoors (TGO) leave at some point during each year. Whether it is to get away from the summer heat and humidity, to see family, return to their summer home or just to go somewhere they have never been or really enjoy. These are usually planned trips and are usually uneventful trips. However, we have seen in the past few years there are other reasons to leave TGO. Hurricanes, tornados, flooding, and wildfires are examples of other reasons to evacuate TGO.
Having a plan is desirable when building a house, planning your financial future as well as when the evacuation notices come from community and state officials. A disaster rarely comes when all of the stars in your life line up and it is easy to accomplish. Your family may not be together, you may not be at your home, however, you can be as prepared as possible if you have a plan. It should not involve everyone coming back into TGO as emergency vehicles may be responding and there may be heavy traffic leaving our community.
There are four basic steps to developing an evacuation plan. Before starting the planning stage, establish a family meeting place that is familiar and easy to find. You may not all be together when you receive the evacuation notice. Here are the steps:
Step 1: Put a plan together by discussing the questions below with your family, friends, or household to start your emergency plan.
• How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?
• What is my shelter plan?
• What is my evacuation route?
• What is my family/household communication plan? Some cell phones have a “Find Me’ feature to locate a lost phone which can also have other’s phones added. This can help locate the phones or people if needed.
• Do I need to update my emergency preparedness kit (Go Bag)?
Step 2: Consider specific needs in your household.
As you prepare your plan tailor your plans and supplies to your specific daily living needs and responsibilities. Discuss your needs and responsibilities and how people in the network can assist each other with communication, care of children, business, pets, or specific needs like operating medical equipment. Create your own personal network for specific areas where you need assistance. Keep in mind some of these factors when developing your plan:
• Different ages of members within your household
• Responsibilities for assisting others
• Locations frequented
• Dietary needs
• Medical needs including prescriptions and equipment
• Disabilities or access and functional needs including devices and equipment
• Languages spoken
• Cultural and religious considerations
• Pets or service animals
• Households with school-aged children
Step 3: Create a Family Emergency Plan
Step 4: Practice your plan with your family/household.
Firewise Committee - Contact Information
Butch Jones Chairman 804-514-4458
Christopher Miller Co-Chairman 407-375-8310
Tim Graham 561-262-8833
Donald Payne
Ed Brown
407-222-0583
321-383-8253
Mike Lavery 585-315-5554
Ron Peoples
Betty Salter
407-509-0486
321-223-8073
Albert McGuire 810-338-5646
Toilet Seat Cut - Gotta see it to believe it!
Only reachable by boat or kayak, Toilet Seat Cut - a bona fide tourist attraction - lies in the waters off Florida Bay near mile marker 90 in Islamorada. Hundreds of decorated toilet seats line a 60-foot-wide manmade channel between mangrove islands and seagrass flats, allowing small boats to pass between the western end of Plantation Key and the eastern side. A five-foot-tall pirate and a mailbox are planted in the marl among the decorations.
The Origins of Toilet Seat Cut
How Toilet Seat Cut began was long a mystery - even for 40-year residents of the Upper Keys - until a call came from a woman who knew the story. Cheryl Lamp shared the history of the shortcut, verified by the Wrenn family, longtime locals with a street named after them near Coral Shores High School.
In 1956, Miami architect Vernon D. Lamp built a second home on three lots in the Plantation Key Colony neighborhood. An avid fisherman and member of the Miami Rod and Reel Club, he loved the Keys, as did his children, Steven and Cheryl. They raced sailboats with the Elks Lodge, visited Rusty’s Bait and Tackle, and collected starfish and sea urchins from the Bay to paint and sell to tourists. Baseball legend Ted Williams was even a guest at their “Key House.”
When Vernon left his home on Coconut Palm Boulevard by boat to dine at the Plantation Yacht Harbor at mile marker 87, he grew frustrated with the long, slow route around CowPens - a circuitous journey for a destination only three miles away as the crow flies. Bit by bit, he decided to make his own shortcut. Using his 50-horsepower boat, Bucktail, he dredged through the seagrass flats until he carved a five-to six-foot-wide channel, just enough for a jon boat or flats skiff. To help navigate, he marked it with posts. Then came Hurricane Donna in 1960. After the storm passed, Vernon motored through his channel and noticed something odd - a toilet seat rim hung on one of his posts. Likely blown loose from a nearby home, it had landed there by chance. “He washed it, disinfected it, painted it, and hung it right back where it had landed,” Cheryl said. “My father had a sense of humor.”
Tom Wrenn, who graduated from Coral Shores High in 1966 and was friends with Steven Lamp, recalled, “Vernon was a character. He put that toilet seat on one side of the cut and the lid on the other so he could find his way home with a spotlight.” Over the years, the narrow channel widened and the display grew.
Today, locals and visitors alike commemorate birthdays, weddings, and spring breaks by adding their own decorated toilet seats. It’s technically not legal - but in true Keys spirit, that hasn’t stopped anyone from continuing the 56-year-old tradition.
Your Full Service Salon for Over 28 Years
We Have a Professional Stylist for All Your Needs
Located in the CSA Office Building
Experienced and Professional Hair Design for Both Men and Women
• Dimensional Hair Color • Foil Highlighting and Lowlighting
• Waxing - Facial Only • Spa Pedicures • Gel Manicures
Give us a call, we have openings for hair appointments
We now offer Fairy Hair
Jennifer Stevenson, Owner/Master Stylist
Tuesday through Friday - 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Jackie Moore, Licensed Cosmetologist
Tuesday through Friday - 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sowandy Palma, Hair & Nails
Tuesday, Thursday & Friday - 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Deloris Fox, Nail Technician
Tuesday through Friday - 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Call
Tuesday through Friday • 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Appointment Hours Can Vary
Deloris Jennifer Jackie Sowandy
Activities Events 2025-2026
November 8 Saturday Artisian Market
November 13 Thursday The Edge Effect
November 14 Friday Trivia I
November 15 Saturday Trivia II
December 4 Thursday Golf Cart Parade
2026
January 15 Thursday Rhinestone Cowgirls
January 17 Saturday Sock Hop Social *
January 29 Thursday The Boulevards
February 6 Friday Trivia I
February 7 Saturday Trivia II
February 7 Saturday Parrish Healthcare 5K Walk/Run
February 21 Saturday Line Dance Social
February 26 Thursday Crystal Stark & Adam Ferrara
March 19 Thursday Boy Band Evolution
Concert Dates in Bold Other events to be added throughout the year.
* Looking for a Chairperson
Monthly Activities Meeting
Our next meeting is October 21, 2025 at 1:00 pm in the Plantation Manor. Everyone is welcome.
Activities Committee Points of Contact
Carmella Zielinski 321-289-0150 tmcmzie@gmail.com
Pat Foley 407-538-8035 patfoley441@gmail.com
Ruth Falusi 219-670-1111 falusirr@yahoo.com
NOTE: The TGO Tickets & Gift Shop in Hobbyland is Open 10-Noon, Mon-Fri
2025-2026 Concert Series Sponors
Mackey’s Home Renovations
Atlantic Storm Protection Eagle’s Pride RV Sales & Service
Gary L Torres DMD, PA JAD Family Pharmacy
Parrish Medical Center
Starling’s Auto Group, Inc TGO Realty, Inc
A Great Line Up Of Shows For The 2025-26 Season!
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2025 - 7:30 PM
Performing songs by Michael Bublé, Frank Sinatra, Chicago, Michael Jackson and more
THURSDAY, JANUARY 15, 2026 - 7:30 PM
Powerhouse Singers - Classics and Contemporary
THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2026 - 7:30 PM
VINTAGE ROCK & ROLL - ‘50s & ‘60s Expert Musicians - High Energy Entertainers!
American Idol Finalist Tribute to Ladies Of Song
THURSDAY
FEBRUARY 26, 2026 - 7:30 PM
Comedian and Actor ADAM FERRARA
“Hilarious” says Entertainment Weekly
BOY BAND EVOLUTION
THURSDAY MARCH 19, 2026 - 7:30 PM
Barber Shop Quartets to Modern Hits Tight Harmonies - Queen, The Eagles
TRIVIA NIGHTS
FRIDAY & SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14-15
In the Manor
$10 per person
Sandwich/Chips/ Ice Cream
Doors Open 4:30 Game Starts 5:15
8 Per Table Limit
No Electronics
Chairperson Sharon Wheir - 253-632-2105
An Interdenominational Christian Church
SUNDAY
WORSHIP SERVICE
10:00 am
Watch the LIVESTREAM on our Church Website: www.tgochurch.org
Dr. David Price
Lead Pastor J.B. Kump
Minister, Small Groups, Visitation and Retreats
Dan Zahn
Minister of Prayer & Visitation
321-383-0303
Richard Harleman Director of Music
Nancy Reinish Director of Bells
Leanne Craig
Office Administrator
Georgi Zeigler
Administrative Assistant
Send e-mail to: info@tgochurch.org www.tgochurch.org
Watch Bible Study and Services
Pastor David’s Bible Study is LIVESTREAMING on Thursday mornings at 10:00 am on the church website: tgochurch.org. In-person bible study is 11:00 am in the Fellowship Hall
If you miss the livestream of any service, you can watch it from our website: tgochurch.org by clicking on the Resources tab at the top of the homepage, then click on Archived Videos to find the service.
Pastor Dan Zahn’s Bible Study
Year-round on Thursday evenings at 6:30 pm by Zoom. Contact Pastor Dan for the link at 321-446-7966.
Ray Z’s Bible Class Mondays at 11:00 in Fellowship Hall.
Calling ALL Singles - Join us for fun events!
The SINGULARS of Great Outdoors Community Church are continuing their enjoyable schedule. Get on the email distribution list for all the events for this group. Send your email, with the subject line “Singulars Email” to: info@tgochurch.org or call the church office at 321-383-0303 to keep up on the latest news for the Singulars. Please contact our coordinator Pastor J.B. Kump at: 321-543-1608 or email: jb.kump@gmail.com.
Memory Garden Open to All TGO Residents
Interested in a Memory Walk Paver or Columbarium Niche? Inquire at The Great Outdoors Community Church - 321-383-0303. Monday 11:00 am - 1:00 pm, Tuesday - Friday 9:00 am - 1:00 pm.
Listen to Verse by Verse
With David Price on WPIO 89.3 FM every Monday - Friday at 4:40 pm and 9:13 pm
Prayer Shawl Ministry
Prayer Shawl Ministry meets on the 2nd and 4th Friday of each month from November through April and meets in the Narthex. Contact Rosalind Zahn for more information at 321-446-7968.
Great Outdoors Community Church has a ministry that provides services to TGO residents. The areas of support and their points-of-contact are as follows:
Home Repairs Heidi Turner 321-514-3719 hsturner44@gmail.com
Lending Closet Jeff Craig 248-880-7462 jcraig26@protonmail.com
Temporary Meals Clariece Lewis 321-693-9864 clariece13@gmail.com
County Services Bev Houghton 810-919-1629 bhoughto10@hotmail.com
Transportation Charlie Wood 847-609-1222 charliewood847@gmail.com
Operation Christmas Child 2025 starts October 19
For additional gift ideas and more, visit samaritanspurse.org/occ More details coming in our Sunday bulletins.
Shoeboxes will be available in Narthex Sunday, October 19
Shoeboxes to be completed and delivered to: Fellowship Hall By Sunday, November 23
For all questions, please reach out to: Mary Selby 941-713-5555 Jan Lundeberg 763-221-1605
Be A Good Human
If you have food or clothing that you would like to donate, these are the locations our TGO Church recommends. There are a lot of local people in need.
Titusville Food & Clothing
Donation Locations
SPCA Thrift Store
4220 S. Washington Ave.
321-267-2210
Hours: Monday - Saturday - 9:00 am - 8:00 pm
Sunday - 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
North Brevard Charities
4475 S. Hopkins Ave.
321-269-6555
Hours: Monday - Friday - 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Saturday - 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sunday - 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Women’s Center Upscale Resale Store
3216 S. Hopkins Ave.
321-362-5885
Hours: Tuesday - Saturday - 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Food Drop-Off - Fresh & Staples
Liberty Lodge Ministries
4150 Mt. Sterling Ave. 321-264-0757
Hours: Monday - Friday - 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Saturday & Sunday - closed
Women In Church
Veterans Day Continental Breakfast
November 11, 2025 at 10:00 am Fellowship Hall
Speaker: LaRue Fleming
Honoring Our Women Veterans of TGO and Acknowledging TGO Volunteer Cape Canaveral Ladies
Tickets are $10 and will be sold October 19, 26 and November 2 in the Fellowship Hall after church.
Please let us know if you are coming so we can reserve a seat for you, and bring your ticket. If you are a Woman Veteran in TGO and you have not been contacted, please let the GOCC Office know - 321-383-0303 We would love to honor your service to our country.
Lorraine
MURPHY
Lorraine Murphy has been a cornerstone of The Great Outdoors community since she and her family moved to Central Florida in 1990. From managing and owning restaurants in Connecticut to opening successful businesses in Florida, Lorraine has always had a passion for food, hospitality, and bringing people together. Her energy, dedication, and love for the community are legendary — whether serving on the first Park Patrol, or helping organizing events that made TGO feel like home. Today, the Historic Center at TGO proudly bears her name, a fitting tribute to her decades of service and unwavering commitment to our resort and its residents.
Lorraine, tell us a little about your background - where were you born, and what was your family like?
I was born in Middletown, Connecticut. I have two sisters, one older and one younger, which makes me the middle child. And let me tell you, you never want to be the middle child!
What was life like growing up in Connecticut?
I loved sports, and even as a kid I was drawn to marketing and sales. I started working young - at 16 - in a very prestigious children’s store at the time. I got married fairly early, had my first daughter at 18, went back to work, and then had another daughter.
I’ve always had a passion for the food business. My parents were both in it, and my great-grandfather actually owned a bakery in Connecticut. I started cooking and baking at a very young age - it’s really what I wanted to do. After getting married, I worked in a place similar to the Jukebox Café back home. I was the manager there, responsible for buying the food and helping to prepare it.
Sounds like you had a good sense for business and got an early start.
Well, I had to. My marriage ended in divorce, and it was just me and my two daughters. One day, the man who owned the restaurant where I worked decided to sell and retire. He’d been in the business his whole life and was getting up there in years. I asked him, “If I can borrow enough money, could I buy the business?” He said yes. So, I bought it - though I still had to pay him rent for the building.
Once I took over, I decided to turn the café into something that matched my vision - a steakhouse. Around that time, I met a gentleman called Murph. He had spent 22 years in the Army and was looking for something new to do. We decided to partner up. Together, we redecorated the whole place to feel like a warm, home-style dining room. I literally brought in furniture from my own house - my hutch, china cabinet, tea carts - everything.
Murph built me a beautiful room divider around the charcoal grill. I was the cook, and before long, business took off. When I went to pay the previous owner one month, he told me, “I’m going to give you six months free because you’re not going to make it.” I said, “Okay, great for me - six months free!” Well, within six months, we had a line out the door.
We were open for lunch and dinner, plus Sunday brunch. And during brunch, if you wanted a hamburger with your meal, you got one! We ended up feeding the Elks Club, the Lions Club, and even the Army Reserves once a month. We hosted weddings, had two dining rooms, and a lovely cocktail lounge. I picked up furniture from restaurants that had gone out of business and made it into something I truly loved.
I loved feeding people. I loved seeing them happy and enjoying their meals. We had a piano player from 4 to 6 p.m. in the lounge for a little background music, and on Fridays and Saturdays, we’d bring in other live performers. Santa Claus even came during Christmas week. It was just a great, great time - we had so much fun.
We all know the restaurant business can be tough, but it sounds like you found a formula that worked for your area. Yes, we were doing very well, so well, Murph said, “We should go see your landlord and tell him we want to buy the building.” So we went to his house, and wouldn’t you know, he decided to triple the price. Murph looked at me and said, “You’re killing yourself. We’re leaving - you’re going to sell the business.” So, I sold it. And funny enough, the guy who bought the business ended up having to sell the building anyway.
About ten months later, I was terribly bored. I took a job with Aetna Corporation at their headquarters, but I just couldn’t stand it - I really missed the food industry. Around that time, a friend of my daughter was selling his breakfast and lunch place. I went to see him and said, “Guess what? You want to sell, and I want to buy.” So, he sold it to me.
So, another restaurant?
Yes! We built a great breakfast and lunch business. Murph helped me all along the way - every day he’d peel and clean a 50-pound bag of potatoes for home fries and pitched in with everything else. It was great.
So, let’s jump ahead - how did you eventually find your way to The Great Outdoors?
Around that same time, my daughter and her family decided they wanted a new start somewhere outside of Connecticut. They read in Trailer Life Magazine about a beautiful new RV resort being developed in Central Florida by a man named Jack Eckerd. They came down, took a tour, and bought a lot in January of 1989 - Lot 160 on Plantation. Back then, it was nothing but dirt.
As they were getting ready to move down, the realtor named Judy called my daughter, Paula and said, “You’ve got two little kids, and there’s a brand-new bathhouse being built on Sunset Drive. Why don’t you swap? You give up 160 Plantation, and you can have 32 Sunset, right across from the bathhouse.” That’s exactly what they did - then she moved to 64 Sunset, and that’s how I ended up on Sunset!
At the same time, my son-in-law applied to the Brevard County Sheriff’s Department - and got hired.
Wait... so your daughter moved here first? Yep - and I was really starting to miss them. It was Labor Day weekend, 1989, and I said to Murph, “You know what, honey? We’re going to close the restaurant for the weekend. We’ll pay all the employees, and we’re flying down. I want to see where they took my grandchildren.”
So we flew into Melbourne, landed around 11:00 p.m., and picked up our rental car. We were driving in the pitch dark with no idea where we were going. Highway 50 was just a two-
lane road back then. Eventually, we found the entrance road - still pitch black - and came upon this little guard shack.
The guard came out, walked in front of the car, and when Murph rolled down the window, he said, “You must be Paula’s parents! She’s so excited you’re here.” I asked, “How do we know where to go?” He said, “You’re fine. Keep going on this street until you come to a lake with a fountain. Your next right is Sunset - turn right there.”
Finally, we came to Lake Judy, sparkling and beautiful even at night. We took the right turn - and there she was, waiting for us in her travel trailer on a park lot.
That sounds like quite an adventure just finding the place. Looking back, it really was. Paula had rented a park home for us - 92 Sunset - so we’d have a place to stay. The next morning, it was so foggy you couldn’t see your hand in front of your face. Our grandson Christopher, who was about two and a half, came running over saying, “Grammy! Grammy! Come - I show you homes! I show you!”
So off we went, hand in hand, to look at the model homes behind the Welcome Center. There were maybe six or eight of them at the time.
They read in Trailer Life Magazine about a beautiful new RV resort being developed in Central Florida by a man named Jack Eckerd. They came down, took a tour, and bought a lot...
Okay, let’s stop for a moment. We need you to paint a picture for everyone reading this - what did TGO look like back then? You mentioned a fountain and a Welcome Center - what else was here? Well, the original manager’s house was also the Welcome Center. Today, that’s where the onsite CSA fix-it guy now lives.
In 1989, the golf course was open and playable. Where the mail center stands now used to be the firehouse. The manager’s house was home to the very first park manager, but he was employed by Jack Eckerd - not TGO itself. We didn’t actually own anything until a couple of years after everyone had moved here. TGO ownership was only turned over after a certain number of homes were sold within each condo.
At that time, there was a little shop called the Country Cupboard, where you could get a quick breakfast, lunch or deli sandwich. My daughter Paula was one of the first managers as was Nancy Merchant. Back then, mail was delivered to the guard gate. Ray Gibson, the TGO Park Manager, would pick up the bags of mail and take it to the Welcome Center. When I first moved here, my mail was addressed to 4505 West Cheney Highway, Lot #62, and I’d go to the Welcome Center to pick it up - but you had to get there before 5:00 p.m. Continued...
The Country Cupboard had cubby holes on the wall where they would sort the mail in to. Later, the second Park Manager, Richard Hesser, went to the postmaster and arranged to have mail delivered directly to what is now the conference room. Back then, that space was a laundry room. There was a dividing wall, and the mailman would deliver mail behind it into slots. Eventually, the space became too small, so the mail operation moved to the old firehouse, and the former mailroom became the conference room.
Clarence and Rita Thibeau sold golf carts out of a quonset hut near where the path for Hammocks Oaks is today. That was the first golf cart shop. TGO had gas pumps where you could fill up your car or golf cart. Clarence was followed by Shorty Crocker then Bob Rosenberg and then Keith Wright.
Back then, the firehouse actually had a fire truck in it. The firehouse is now the mail facility. It wasn’t a working truck, but Tony Del Monte, who would come to visit at the time, had been a fireman in Connecticut, he would drive it around the park during parades and special events. We used to have picnics in the firehouse - they’d roll the truck out, and we’d have hot dog roasts. At that point, it still wasn’t the mail center.
Ray and Connie Lee were the very first people to have a closing at TGO on Sunset Drive - February 7, 1989 - so you can say, the official opening day for TGO was February 7, 1989.
The real estate office was inside the manager’s office where the welcome center was - Judy Willike was in charge. There was an RV sales and repair place run by Ed Goody. The church wasn’t built yet - that didn’t happen until the mid-90s.
Was Sunset completely built when you got here?
Yes, the street itself was complete, but the houses weren’t built until people bought the lots. You’d buy a lot, and then the Park Model would be delivered. The RV lots were available right away, and many went into rental pools to attract visitors to stay here.
Plantation Drive was finished up to Lake Drive, but nothing beyond that. Oak Cove was open only as far as Fawn Trail. When Paula and Phil arrived in January, some streets were still dirt. Lots had been purchased, but all you’d see were survey pins in the ground. And when people first moved here, they’d move their pins around all over the place! Nowadays, of course, you need an actual survey.
Ray and Connie Lee were the very first people to have a closing at TGO on Sunset Drive - February 7, 1989 - so you can say, the official opening day for TGO was February 7, 1989.
So when did you buy a lot?
I looked at the models. Murph said, “Lorraine, you go and you look. Whatever you like, I know I like.” Murph, of course, wanted to look at the condominium documents. He sat and read every page, believe me, he was a military man and read every page. But we didn’t buy.
We had to fly back home and open the restaurant. Murph went to his office in another town, because he worked for the Civil Service military and took care of family housing for all of New England. I was so excited when I got home, I called up Judy and told her I wanted to buy a lot. At that time, my idea was to make it an investment. So she said, “Okay, what do you want?” I said, “Well, I want to stay on Sunset, that’s where my daughter is. How about if I buy Park Home Lot #62 just as you’re coming around the curve? The same lot that I’m living in now - it was $1,800.
So when Murph got home from work, he walked in the kitchen, he said, “Hon, we need to talk. And I said, “Yeah, we do need to talk.” And he said, “What do you want to talk about?” I said, “You talk first.” He says, “No, honey, you talk.” Then he said, “We need to buy some property at The Great Outdoors” And I said, “Good, we did! I bought one this afternoon.” He said, “I hope you got a park home lot. ”
At least you two were decisive when you make a decision. Well, Murph knew the government was closing all the bases in New England, and he only wanted to work five more years. He had it in his mind - without telling me - that he wanted to work at Patrick Air Force Base.
I, on the other hand, wanted to move down with my kids. So I said, “Okay, fine, I’ll put the restaurant up for sale.” I had also put our house on the market. Fortunately, it was a good time - the restaurant was simple to sell, located near a flower shop in a plaza, and it had a strong business. By April, we were almost ready to move, but Murph had to wait until October for military reasons. And, of course, I still had to downsize some things. We left at the end of September and I brought down fifty milk cartons filled with my cookbooks!
We had to rent a U-Haul to move everything. We had bought a brand-new Buick, but no one told us it wasn’t capable of towing, so on the New Jersey Turnpike, it turned into a mess. By the time we reached Virginia, Murph had to stop and drop the transmission. We managed to find the only truck left at a U-Haul dealer that could carry our stuff and tow our car - we drove straight through. We arrived on October 1, 1990and we’ve been here ever since.
And the park home was ready for you to move into it?
Yes, we actually ordered it in December of 1989, and it was ready the first week of January 1990.
Once we settled in, Murph and I got married. That was in January of 1992, and Judy Willike officiated the ceremony. Murph finally retired after five years in 1995. He was a wonderful person - so good to my daughters. Everybody would tell you that Murph was a great guy. He even helped with the Memory Garden here at the TGO Church. He told me that when he passed, he didn’t want to go to Arlingtonhe wanted to be laid to rest in the garden because this was his home, and this is where he wanted to be forever. He passed away in 2014.
Now that you were at TGO - how involved did you get?
As soon as I got here, I opened a store down on US 1, across from Eckler’s Corvette. Murph was going back and forth to work in Orlando at the Navel Training Center, and I had nothing to do, so I decided to open a cookie bouquet business.
We had bought a brand-new Buick, but no one told us it wasn’t capable of towing, so on the New Jersey Turnpike, it turned int o a mess.
Before we left Connecticut, it was my son-in-law’s birthday, and cookie bouquets were the new fad. I went to order one for him and told them, “Anything but oatmeal raisin - he hates oatmeal raisin.” When it was finally ready, every single cookie was oatmeal raisin. I swore that day that when we moved to Florida, I would open a store and make cookie bouquets - and people would get exactly what they ordered.
I opened Sweet Bouquet, and it was a tremendous success. Paul’s Smokehouse, where Shilo’s is today, was one of my clients. There was a cocktail waitress there who fell in love with the cookie business, and she told me that if I ever wanted to sell, she would buy it. I did sell it to her about a year later because I got so involved in everything at TGO.
What kind of things?
I was on the very first Park Patrol - what’s now the Courtesy Patrol. I also served as one of the ARC board members at the time. There were only three of us, because the developer still had the deciding vote on everything. We loved it and did anything we could for the community.
I ran the kitchen for the Manor for a while. It couldn’t operate because there wasn’t a restaurant - no food license. The manager came to me, knowing I was in the food business, and asked if I would be the caterer. So, I got a catering license and started L&M Catering.
I cooked for all the “Welcome Back” functions, for the Friday night socials, way before the Blue Heron - back when it was called the Plantation House - I helped get that restaurant up and running. The owner of the Sandpoint restaurant in town became one of the new managers. I used to help a lot of managers get started.
How did the Lorraine Murphy Historic Center come about?
Well, from the day we moved here, we just fell in love with the whole concept of what Jack Eckerd was presenting to people that came in with RVs. I started collecting all the interesting articles, photos and keepsakes. I thought the people who would come here in the future would enjoy seeing how the resort started. I thought it was just something that people needed to know and would appreciate.
Who decided where the room the Historic Center would be in?
It was Vernon Weekly, a board of director chairperson who decided on that room. He had it approved by the other board members - a unanimous vote - they were willing to share it as a conference room - which they still do to this day.
That was in February of 2012, I’ve put all the photos and items in there and have been collecting stuff ever since.
We know you like to cook and you’re a bit of a cookbook fanatic. Tell us about that.
Like I said, when we moved down here, I brought fifty cartons of cookbooks and I’ve been collecting them ever since. I just love recipes and love to cook - and when Murph was alive, he loved to eat - so it made it easy for me to buy more books. I have hundreds of them - I love to share recipes.
(Editors Note: We were in Lorraine’s home and can confirm there really are hundreds of cookbooks! Lorraine’s shelves may be filled with recipes, but her real legacy is the warmth and generosity she’s shared with everyone at The Great Outdoors. Just like a good meal, her life here has been a blend of love, laughter, and community - and TGO is all the richer for it.)
With Murph at the Welcome Back party, October 31, 1993.
Must see this elegant custom Resort Home loaded with upgraded and located on a quiet cul-de-sac street. The home consists of approximately 3,487 sq.ft. living area; 3 full bedrooms & bathrooms; plus loft; Laundry Room; BVutler’s Pantry: wet bar; screened porch with view of canal and nature area; plus 15’x48’xc14’ enclosed RV garage with full hookups and 42’ long car garage.
In Memoriam - Sterling Wallace Thacker “Wally” August 9, 1934 – Sept. 30, 2025
Wally passed away peacefully, at home surrounded by the family he loved. Born in Franklin, KY and serving in the US Navy, he later attended Tri State University, working three jobs to receive a degree in civil engineering and moving to FL where he dredged and developed hundreds of canals including Paradise Island, Nassau.
Wally was also part of a two man team that placed the statue of “Christ of The Abyss” underwater in Key Largo, FL and in 1970 used his expertise to dredge the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel.
Wally married the love of his life, Bonnie, in the early 60s and moved to Virginia Beach to establish several businesses, catering to pet lovers, including Bayside Kennels, Pet and Poodle Boutiques and Sterling Meadows Farm. As amateur equestrians, he and Bonnie quickly evolved into showing horses all over the country and became World Champion Equestrians.
Wally was a man of great integrity, very generous and compassionate. He loved a good joke, told stories that interested every audience and was not above pulling a good prank or two. He was a life long Miami Dolphin fan, a great golfer, a skilled sailor and captained two yachts. His memory for great detail, even to his dying day, was reverse engineering things around him to make them more efficient.
But more than anything, Wally loved his family. Bonnie, his wife of 55 years, was always a subject in daily conversation. He couldn’t tell the world enough about how wonderful she was. When Wally spoke of his family, he beamed with so much pride, tears glistened his eyes at the thought of them. The love for his family was his greatest legacy and his family recognized he was a treasure. Our family loved him fiercely, showering him with love, laughter, and reminding him of our love.
Wally was preceded in death by his wife, Bonnie, his beloved brothers, Alfred Thacker, Sr., Jack Thacker and daughter Wanda. He is survived by his daughters Cindy Hinkle (Sammy), Cheryl Weber (Dennis) and son Sterling Kastrul. Grandchildren, Sterling Hinkle (Jacquline), Darlene Hinkle (Owen), Christina Buonomo (Jason), Zoe Lenius (Rob) and great grandchildren, Levi, Liam, Theodore and Harper.
A private Celebration of Life will be held on Oct. 24, 2025 in Virginia Beach. In January 2026, there will be another Celebration of Life at The Great Outdoors in Titusville, FL; time and date to be determined.
From the March 1, 2024 Issue of The Happenings - Wally Thacker Interview...
You know the building well, in fact, it’s hard to miss. Looking east along any drive on Highway 1 through Titusville, you are bound to see NASA’s Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB). It is considered the largest single-story structure in the world. Built in the early 1960’s, it has been the home for every major rocket launch in this country. But there was a time when this sliver of an island was a marshy wasteland - pretty much uninhabited except for a few thousand gators, snakes and a collection of varmints. Enter Wally Thacker, a transplant from Kentucky, who in his younger years, helped engineer and excavate some of the most impressive projects along Florida’s coast including breaking ground on the VAB.
Wally was a great American and played an important role in Florida’s history.
APPETIZERS
Basket of Fries - choice of two sauces 4.99
Quesadilla 10.99
12” flour tortilla filled with sautéed onions, peppers and shredded cheese. Add chicken - 3.00 Add shrimp - 5.00
Pretzel - Served with nacho cheese dip 9.99
Pierogi 9.99
Served with a choice of sauerkraut and horsey sauce or sautéed onions and sour cream
Potato Skins 9.99
Loaded with shredded cheese and bacon, topped with green onions
Fried Okra - Served with ranch 8.99
Onion Rings 8.99
Beer battered, served with a choice of dipping sauces
Spicy Quesadilla 13.99
12” flour tortilla filled with onions, peppers, jalapeños, tomatoes, and buffalo chicken.
Substitute Fried Shrimp - 5.00
Fried Pickles - Served with Sriracha Ranch 9.99
Potstickers 10.99
Pork potstickers, served with Sweet Thai Chili Sauce
Chilled Spanish blended soup, served with croutons or crackers.
Ask your server about our Gazpacho special of the day!
$3. 50 Tacos on Thursday
Music at The Blue Heron
Friday, October 17 Sammy
Friday, October 24 Mike Johnson
Friday, October 31 Tiki Band
Friday, November 14 Sammy
Friday, November 21 Tiki Band
Friday, November 28 Sammy
CONSUMER ADVISORY
Dates and Acts are subject to change
Consuming undercooked meat, poultry, eggs, or seafood may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions. Please inform your server of any special dietary needs.
BURGERS AND SANDWICHES
Cheese options - American, Swiss Provolone, Pepper Jack Vegetarian Burger - 3.99 Gluten Free Bun Option - 2.99
Blue Heron Burger - Angus beef with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle. Served with french fries. 12.99 Add cheese 1.00
MOAB Burger - Mother Of All Burgers. Angus beef with American cheese, onion rings, bacon and BBQ sauce. Served with french fries. 15.99
Chicken Sandwich - Grilled or fried chicken breast with lettuce and tomato. Served with french fries. 12.99
Chicken Parm Sub - Fried chicken, marinara and cheese. Served with french fries. Half 10.99 Full15.99
Cheesesteak - Steak or chicken, sautéed peppers, onions and mushrooms, topped with provolone cheese. Served with french fries. Half 10.99 Full14.99
Heron Club - Sliced turkey or ham, bacon, lettuce, tomato and mayo on your choice of bread. Served with french fries. 14.99
On The Green Burger - Angus beef with provolone cheese, spinach, avocado and house aioli. Served with french fries. 15.99
J&B’s Patty Melt - Angus beef smothered with caramelized onions, on marbled rye bread with Swiss cheese. Served with french fries. 13.99
Meatloaf Sandwich - House meatloaf with gravy, lettuce and tomato. Served with french fries. 13.99
Eggplant Parm Sub - Fried eggplant, marinara and cheese. Served with french fries. Half 10.99 Full15.99
Meatball Sub - Meatballs, marinara, provolone cheese on a toasted sub. Served with french fries.
Half 10.99 Full14.99
The Reuben - Thinly sliced corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, Thousand Island dressing on marbled rye. Served with french fries. 14.99
ENTREES AND PASTAS
Potatoes and vegetable of the day are subject to change. Ask your server what we have today.
Chicken Tenders - Served with French fries and choice of dipping sauce. 10.99
Fish and Chips - Beer battered fried Haddock, served with french fries and coleslaw. 14.99
Spaghetti and Meatballs - Meatballs over spaghetti pasta with marinara sauce with garlic bread. Half 9.99 Full 14.99
SIDES
Replacement options require an up charge. Ask your server for more information.
French Fries Sweet Potato Fries Onion Rings Side Salad Side of Fruit Coleslaw
Summer Hours
Daily 11:00 am to 8:00 pm
Grilled Salmon - Choice of grilled or blackened salmon, served with vegetable of the day. 21.99
Chicken Alfredo - Grilled chicken over fettuccine alfredo. Served with garlic bread. Half 12.99 Full 15.99
Albatross Pasta - Creamy marinara, penne, basil, and Parmesan. Choice of chicken or meatballs. Half 10.99 Full 15.99
DESSERTS
Personalized cakes are custom to order. Contact us for more information regarding our bakery services! Three Layer Chocolate Cake 10.99 Florida Orange Cake 10.99 Key Lime Pie 8.99
Ask your server about our Dessert of the day!
Butch Jones
Butch Jones spent decades in the fire profession, rising to Battalion Chief while earning a reputation for dedication and service. Off duty, he’s just as passionate about classic cars and Corvettes — and he brings that same hands-on energy volunteering at the The Great Outdoors, helping keep our community running smoothly and safely.
Start at the beginning, where were you born? Tell us a little about your family.
I was born in Alexandria, Virginia, and I was an only child. My dad worked for the Department of Agriculture, and my mother was a stay-at-home mom. We eventually moved to Chesterfield, Virginia, just outside of Richmond. That’s where I spent most of my childhood - growing up in Chesterfield.
So in elementary and high school - what were you into? Any sports?
I loved sports. Baseball was my main sport, and football too. I played a little basketball, but I wasn’t really tall enough for that. Even at a young age, though, I always knew I wanted to be a firefighter. I guess I was about four or five years old when my uncle bought me a toy fire truck - one of those old push-pedal fire trucks. That’s what got me interested in the fire service, and I was hooked from that point on.
Not long after, I caught the automobile bug. I was kind of car-crazy. My dad had been a motor machinist mate in the Navy, and I guess I inherited a little bit of that mechanical ability from him.
Tell us about some of your first cars. Were you in high school then?
Yes, in high school. Actually, my uncle was a Kaiser-Frazer dealer - he had two or three dealerships - and he arranged for me to pick up a used 1953 Kaiser Manhattan four-door sedan. That was my first car. I had a couple of them, actually. Later, I bought a ‘55 Kaiser Manhattan with a supercharged six-cylinder engine. Eventually, I ended up with a Henry J. Gasser drag car.
So then, after high school, did you go to college?
I went to college for a short period of time, then went into the Navy. After that, I did a few jobs while waiting for a fire department position and eventually got hired by the Chesterfield Fire Department.
How long were you in the Navy?
Eight years total - four of it in the reserves. We were stationed in the North Atlantic, and then we went to Vietnam. We did three tours in Vietnam. I was on a carrier, so we were out in the South China Sea.
Then you came back from the Navy and joined a fire department?
Yes. When I got back to Virginia, I took a position with the Chesterfield Fire Department. I eventually became a lieutenant in the training division, then a captain in the fire prevention bureau. After that, I worked as an arson investigator. Later, I was promoted to Battalion Chief, and then Road Battalion Chief, working the northern battalion. At that time, I had twelve stations under my command.
How many years did that take to get to that level?
Well, it didn’t take very long. I was only a firefighter for about two years before being promoted to what we called a Sergeant - basically a shift leader. Two years after that, I became a Lieutenant, then spent two years in training before being promoted to Captain. After three years as Captain, I was promoted again to Battalion Chief. So it all moved pretty fast.
During that time, I was also appointed Deputy Coordinator of Emergency Services, which was basically our disaster response team - handling hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, or any major emergency. I was on the road for three or four years with that.
Then I was promoted again, this time to oversee the Maintenance and Logistics Division. I was in charge of the maintenance shop, which repaired all our vehicles, and I was responsible for making sure every fire station and firefighter had what they needed - everything from toilet paper to new buildings. We worked on plans for new stations with the architects, and I handled the specs for fire apparatus, emergency equipment, uniforms, and gear. Just about anything that was purchased by the fire department went through that division
You obviously retired as a fireman, so when and how did you get into RVing?
It was back in 1999. My late wife, Liz, and I had been into boats for a while - we had several large boats - but we quickly found out that really wasn’t for us. You think you can go anywhere in a boat, but you really can’t. The bigger the boat, the more restrictions there are on where you can go. So, we decided to try tent camping. That experience didn’t go so well when Liz had a middle-of-the-night run-in with a mayonnaise jar that went badly. I figured that was the end of our camping adventures, but she surprised me. She said maybe if we had an RV with a toilet, it might make the adventure a little easier - plus, it would be easier to make coffee. So, we bought our first RV in 1999.
Cute story - We think a lot of us can relate to that one. We bought a new “Class C” in 1999. Most of our travel was along the East Coast. We made the loop across the USA three or four times and even went to Alaska twice. The only place we never made it to was Maine. We got as far as Massachusetts, but never quite made it to Maine - that’s the one thing I wish we had done.
It’s an important committee in TGOone the community really needs to support. Unfortunately, we just lost two key members...
So, how the heck did you discover TGO?
Well, in 2010, Liz was looking into coming to Florida. We were on the west coast at the time, but it was just too busy over there. She came across an ad in the FMCA magazine to rent a lot here at The Great Outdoors. She looked up TGO, read the reviews, and said, “Let’s try that place.” She called, but the man’s lots were filled, and he told her to give Howie Moquin a try. So, we called him, and he had one available. We stayed here for two weeks. By the third day, we were already looking at lots - and we bought a place on Plantation Drive, back near the library. Later, in 2015, we moved from there over to Addison Way.
Let’s go back a bit. We know your wife Liz passed away and you ended up meeting and marrying someone who already lived here in TGO, Susie. Yes. Liz passed away from cancer - it was very quick and unexpected. I had a tough time with it, but some of my friends were adamant about getting me out of the house and back to doing things. They’d buy me tickets for events at the Manor - the dances, shows, things like that.
Liz and I had known Susie and her husband, Skip, from the dog park and from golfing - we used to hang out together quite a bit. Not long after Skip died - from a bee sting, of all things, Liz passed. It was a tough time for both of us.
After a while, I started texting Susie and making phone calls, and eventually, we started spending time together doing things, and it gradually turned into more than that. We both had dogs, played golf, liked RVing - we had a lot in common. There are a lot of things in life that are just better when you have a partner. We both realized life is short and you have to move on. I still think I got the better end of the deal.
You never know how life is going to work out, but I’m thinking for the two of you, this has been a pretty good second opportunity. Bet between the two of you, there are several children and grandchildren. What’s the count? Let’s see… I brought two to the party, and Susie has three - so five kids total, and between us, thirteen grandkids. My granddaughter just had a baby, and Susie’s grandson is expecting, so now we’re great-grandparents.
Butch, we know you volunteer for quite a few things in the park and you’re currently head of Firewise - which obviouly is a great fit with your experience. How’d that come about?
Tim Graham, who was the chairman at the time, he approached me at the gym one day and wanted to know about my background since he knew I had a fire service experince. He then asked me to be on the committee. Yeah... that was his teaser to get me on the committee, not knowing he wanted me to take over as the chairman.
It’s an important committee in TGO - one the community really needs to support. Unfortunately, we just lost two key members, Ed and Karri Olefirowicz - they moved out of the park. They did a lot of the yeoman’s work, plus the behind the scenes paperwork and keeping things straight, helping store all our data - that sort of thing. We were already short-handed and now we need to find a replacement for them. Continued next page...
Butch Jones
We can tell you, you’re not the Lone Ranger. It’s tough right now to find volunteers. There are several committees looking to fill positions. What are your thoughts on that?
I think we’re seeing a different type of RVer now than we did previously - they’re from a slightly different generation - and the volunteerism that RVing typically brought isn’t quite there. Some may not realize how important it is to our community or the difference it makes to get involved and help out.
We also have residents who are aging out and aren’t able to help, especially when physical effort is required. And when you think about all the committees, the board of directors, plus the ARC committee, there really are a lot of volunteers already doing their part.
Okay - let’s go back to something fun. We know you’re a car guy, what kind of cars are in your garage now?
Let’see, we have a ‘64 Corvette convertible, an ‘03 Corvette convertible and of course, my wife’s Acadia and my pick up.
, We know you volunteer for a car museum - which one, give us the scoop.
Yes. I volunteer at the American Muscle Car Museum in Melbourne. It’s owned by one man who built it as a 501(c)(3),
which means the only way you can go there is through a charity event, and all the money raised has to stay in Brevard County - that’s one of his stipulations. He and his wife have built three dog parks in the Melbourne and Viera area in the past two years alone. He’s a serious philanthropist for Brevard County.
He has over 500 vehicles in his collection and also runs a restoration and repair shop. I’m usually there three or four times a month from October through May. He also organizes car shows outside the museum, mainly as fundraisers.
He has the largest collection of Yenko vehicles - high-performance muscle cars built or modified by Don Yenko’s Chevrolet dealership between the 1960s and 1980s.
Sounds like a place that will have to become a Happenings article. If you could pick one favorite car, what would it be?
No question… a ‘67 Corvette convertible. Yeah, with a big block. That’s the one that makes my heart race.
How close you have come to having one?
Not close enough. But you know, sometimes it’s nice to have a dream car you can just admire.
Thanks Butch, for taking time, let’s make plans some day to go check out that museum. Absolutely - I’m looking forward to it.
SATURDAY
NOVEMBER 8, 2025
Funny Thing Is… Does The Cure, Cure?
Not all cures cure what ails you. This observation comes from an unplanned, unscientific discovery of recent occurrence. A friend drank some herbal tea which he believed would help sooth his sore throat. After sipping his fourth cup of this tea and making his sixth trip to the Men’s room he decided to read the packaging only to find the herbal remedy was to cure constipation. Mistakes like this can really be, how shall I say this, irritating.
Now we all know people who will expertly recommend stuff to help us cure what ails us. However, I would strongly advise research before believing your golfing friends who overnight acquired the medical expertise of a Harvard or Yale physician just because they stayed at a Holiday Inn Express. When messing around with herbal cures, make sure you know what you’re doing. For example, a lawyer who loves the taste of basil may brew and drink a pot of basil tea to relax themselves. Oh yeah, it’ll relax them all right. They’ll wake up a couple of days later at the end of the trial. Basil tea is a sedative recommended to cure sleeping disorders! Good morning, Counselor. You may want to have a cup of coffee while you’re looking for a new firm. Sage or barley teas might have a delightful flavor to them, but if you’re generally an energetic person and you have a few cups of those, you may find yourself talking like that speed talking guy on steroids from the old Fed Ex commercials. After they peel you off the ceiling, you can look at the packaging and you’ll find sage and barley are recommended to cure depression. Finally, and I’m going to be careful with this one, if you’re still an active adult I strongly recommend you moderate if you drink Kava Kava tea. Why? Let’s just say if you drink a lot of that tea, don’t visit the neighbors unless they are REALLY CLOSE FRIENDS with no inhibitions. So if someone ever tries to set you up on a blind date with a “tea totaler” don’t assume its going to be boring. You might just be in for the experience of your life. - Dr. Sammy -
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Who Doesn’t Love Our Favorite Cart Girl?
GRACIE
Let’s start at the beginning - Where are you from, Gracie? I grew up in Cocoa Beach, where I spent most my life. I also lived in Orlando from my eighth grade year through high school and I moved back to Cocoa after I graduated high school. What kind of things did you do when you were in school? I did cheerleading for a little bit, when I lived in Cocoa Beach. I graduated from high school from Dr. Phillips is Orlando, which is a huge high school. Their sports were really expensive, so I did not pursue them there.
Living in Cocoa, did you do any surfing or hang out at the beach? I loved surfing. I haven’t surfed in a couple years, but I loved it. It was so fun, yeah. I got put in a surf camp when I was 12 and I just loved it. It was fun. There’s a really big church in Cocoa Beach called Club Zion Community Church. They put together this week-long surf camp for all of the kids, teens, whoever, and then at the end of it, you have like this big competition. So there’s like hundreds of people, and I actually made it in the semifinals. It was after only four days of knowing how to surf, so that was kind of cool. I made it into the top eight.
Do you still live in Cocoa?
No... I recently just moved to Titusville. I live in La Cita, on the golf course. (Maybe I shouldn’t say that?)
Are you attending college?
Yes, I’m putting myself through Eastern Florida for my AA, so I’m just doing it part-time. My next goal is my real estate license. I’m going to work on that next year, so I’m saving money for that now. So, sometime next year, I’ll start.
Where would you like to sell real estate?
Right here in Brevard. I have a family friend who has an office in Titusville. I had a meeting with her about this and she said that once I get my license, she would pick me up. She’s a really good person and she’s willing to take me under her wing and show me the ropes.
How did you get your job at TGO?
I actually had a friend who was a server at the Blue Heron and she got me a job as a server. At the time, Danni was the cart girl. I didn’t even know we had a cart for like, my first couple of months working here. When I met Danni, she wanted to start working inside and I was more than happy to try out the cart, so we just kind of swapped. And I’ve been doing it ever since. I love doing the cart.
How long have you been here?
I think I’ve worked here for three years, because Danni’s been inside for at least two years. I only did serving inside for maybe like six months, and then we switched.
How many days a week do you work now at the golf course?
During the busy season I work about five days a week.
What’s the favorite part of your job?
I just love being outside and being able to chat with people. It really doesn’t feel like I’m working half the time, because you get to know everybody and it just feels like you’re hanging out with friends. I just think everybody’s nice out here. I’ve really only come across one rude person, but he was from the outside. I gave him what he needed, and then I just drove away. I was like, all right, I don’t need that. I’ll go find the friendly people again. Maybe he was just having a grumpy day. So I let him sit with that.
Have you ever played golf?
Miniature golf and I’ve played Top Golf, but I’ve never actually played on a golf course playing golf. But I’m thinking about trying.
So have you had any other jobs anywhere else than here?
My grandpa owned a small printing business, Space Coast Copy, and after school, I’d go and help him out. He would do printing, collating, binding, etc. Once I got old enough to drive, I’d do his deliveries. When I was in high school, I worked at Banana Republic for a little while. I worked at Grills Riverside for a little bit. I was also the second assistant to the vice president of Leland Management Company in Orlando. It’s a property management business, but I learned that I hate filing more than anything in my life. That title sounds nice, but it just means you actually just get all the grunt work that nobody else wants.
What’s your favorite holiday?
Probably Christmas. I like Halloween, too, though. I love all the activities that come with Halloween. It’s so fun, but probably Christmas. Yeah. It’s just so special.
Do you have any pets?
Two cats. One day I’ll have a dog, but right now, these cats are enough.
Aquacize Manor Pool
Mon - Fri - 10:00 am Weather Permitting
Call the CSA Manor Office to ask about any cancellation due to bad weather. Aquacize, or water aerobics, is a fun and easy workout for all ages. It uses the resistance of water to increase cardiovascular endurance, flexibility and muscle tone. Diana Araujo-Fernandez - 321-264-2393
Bingo Plantation Manor Tues - 6:00 pm
Cards Go On Sale at 4:45 pm. TGO Owners, Renters, and Guests Only. All present during play must be 18 years of age or older. Age verification via government ID may be required.
Bike Group Plantation Manor - Thur 9:00 am TGO Bike Group does group rides every Thursday. We go on bike trails or lightly traveled urban streets, no major roads, between 10 to 20 miles at 8 to 10 miles per hour. E bikes and recumbents are welcome. Meet in the Manor parking lot at 9:00 am on a Thursday. Ed Swan - Text 321-536-0572
Bocce The Bocce Court
The Bocce ball set can be borrowed from the cabinet outside the Fitness Center, Monday through Friday from 8:00 am - 3:00 pm. For weekend play, pick up the Bocce set on Friday.
RETURNING IN DECEMBER
Bowling River Lanes (SR50) - Titusville TGO bowling - 2025 Season - $1.00 per week for 3 games with free shoe rental. 2 Practice dates: 12/4/25 and 12/17/25 at 1:00 pm. ($5.35 for 3 games with free shoe rental). 12-week league starts 1/7/26 - first date at noon (for meeting) then 1:00 pm for all other Wednesdays. Teams comprised of 4 bowlers per team. Single bowlers welcome - we will find you a team. League is a handicap system, so everyone has a chance to win. Call or text Ruby Logan - 321-749-8642 or email: Ruby@lakesagency.com
Bridge Club Plantation Manor Porch
Mon - 1:00 pm, Thurs - 1:00 pm
For intermediate and advanced level players. Bridge sign-up sheets are on clipboards on the Plantation Manor office door by the stage. Players must sign up by Friday noon to play Monday afternoon and must sign up by Tuesday noon to play Thursday afternoon. For more info, call: John Comeau – 321-269-5525
Bunco The Library
Meet at 6:00 pm on Thursdays; Oct 23, Nov 6 & 20, Dec 4 & 18, Jan 15 & 29
Cost $1, plus $3 for left, right, center game. All ladies are welcome. No experience necessary. Let’s Roll call Cathy Costello 321-376-2823
Chess The Library
If you are interested in playing chess one-on-one or would like to reactivate scheduled group play, please contact Bill Severance-207-317-1365 or bill@westnetdesigns.com. Join the TGO Chess Players Facebook group.
Cigar Club Windsong Pavilion
2nd & 4th Tuesdays – 3:30 pm. Enjoy a cigar with fellow smokers, swap cigars, share cigar knowledge, join field trips. (Bring a beverage)
Contact: Bob Hazlett – 937-545-7446; or email: rlhazlett999@gmail.com
Clown Alley The Library
RETURNING IN NOVEMBER
Meets on the first and third Thursday of each month at 3:00 pm. For more information call: Pam Campbell Taylor 571-217-0444
Coloring Group Windsong Pavilion
All Year Long - First and third Tuesdays Noon to 3:00 pm and/or Wednesdays 4:00 to 7:00 pm. $10 - Colored pencil supplies provided. Start with a coloring lesson, color at your own pace. Reservations Rquired by the Monday before class. call Tracy Lewis - 425-478-6078 or tgocolor@stuffnthingz.com or
Cornhole The Cornhole Courts
Sunday 3:00 pm, Wednesday 5:30 - 7:00 pm Practice starts a half hour before play. Call: Randy Sanford - 321-505-8353
Croquet Club
Front of Driving Range - Sun - 2:00 pm
No experience needed. Equipment provided. Bring your own chair and beverage. It’s a great way to get outside and have fun with friends and neighbors. Joe DiGuilio 321-398-1816 or Frank Valenza - 407-223-5196
Diamond Painting Library - Mon - 1:30 pm
Try this new craft hobby that’s a mix between Cross Stitch and Paint by Numbers. Tiny resin “diamonds” are applied to a color-coded canvas creating a vibrant mosaic painting. Contact: Nancy Landry - 781-820-7276
Euchre The Library Sat - 7:00 - 9:00 pm Euchre is for all who love the game!
Cost is $1. Theresa Crosby - 740-548-0140
Friendly Hobbies Hobbyland
Wed - 9:30 am - 12:00 noon, all year
Bring your knitting, cross stitch, crocheting, and other needle creations. Call: Theresa Sansoucie - 603-491-4515 or Mary Jane Smith - 810-853-8188
Exercise With Charlotte
Manor (M) or Pavilion (P)
Mon (M) 8:00 -9:00 am Strength Training
Mon (P) 9:00 - 9:30 am Low Impact
Tue (M) 8:00 - 9:00 am PiYo Live
Tue (M) 9:00 - 9:30 am Pilates
Wed (M) 8:00 - 9:00 am Medicine Ball
Wed (P) 9:00 - 9:30 am Total Body Toning
Thur (M) 8:00 - 9:00 am Low Impact
Thur (M) 9:00 - 9:30 am Total Body Stretch
Fri (M) 8:00 - 9:00 am Strength Training
Fri (P) 9:00 - 9:30 am People’s Choice
FMCA - Ambassadors Chapter
Plantation Manor
4th Monday (October - April) - 4:30 pm
Seasonal meetings are monthly. Come share your latest RV adventures and get updates on our rally schedule and chapter activities. After our business meeting, we provide a light meal for our members and guests. Please bring your own beverage of choice. If you will be attending, you must send an email to Bob Nebel by the Monday before the meeting so we know how much food to purchase. Call: Bob Nebel at 321-626-1290 Bob’s email: renebeljr@gmail.com Visit our website at www.TGOAMB.com
Friday Harmony After Lunch Bunch
The Pavilion Fri - 1:00 - 3:00 pm. Harmony After Lunch Bunch (HALB) is an all voices chorus headed by a 30-year Barbershop Harmony Society member. Peter Maselli - 714-392-4444
FTTA - Fun Time Travel Association
Plantation Manor
3rd Monday (October - April) - 4:30 pm
The FTTA is a rally group open to all owners and renters in TGO. Join our monthly meeting for information about rallies and socializing. We will serve food at this meeting. Those who plan to attend, send an e-mail to Monica Fierro by the Friday before the Monday meeting so we know how many chairs to set up and how much food to purchase. Call : Monica Fierro - 321-604-0011
Email: tgomonica@yahoo.com
Put “FTTA” in the subject line.
Game Night The Library
Sun - 6:00 pm, Tue - 6:00 pm
This fun-loving group plays many types of games. Call: Carol Hall - 321-383-3544 or Kathy Smith - 401-742-9766
Hand Knee And Foot Card Game The Library
Wed and Sat - 11:30 am - 4:00 pm
Much more challenging and fun than original Hand and Foot, this is still similar to Canasta. Both days meet all year.
Call: Marie Zeigler - 518-805-8569
Karaoke Plantation Manor - 6:00 pm. October 23, November 20, December 11
Join in the fun or listen to your friends. Bring snacks and beverages. Don Wheeler - 407-401-3655
Line Dancing Plantation Manor
Tue - 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Beginner class starts at 10:00 am. No dance experience - basic steps taught. Improver class starts at 11:00 am.
Michelle Neese - Instructor
Machine Embroidery Club
Hobbyland - Fri - 12:00 - 5:00 pm
Join us in this fascinating hobby. Bring your embroidery machine. Bring your door key for the craft room. Diana Spahn - 207-432-2107
Mad Hatters Plantation Manor
1st Tuesday (November - April) - 11:30 am
RETURNING IN NOVEMBER
All TGO ladies are invited. Lunch is $20.00, cash or check, advance reservations are required. Contact Susan Bonneau at madhatlunch@gmail.com. For any other information contact: Cathy Costello at 321-376-2823 or cathy.costello@gmail.com
Fridays, Oct 24, Nov 6, Dec 5 & 19, Jan 2 & 16 at 6:00 pm. Bring snacks for your table/BYOB. Bring a roll of nickels to play and $1, per person, for donation to three charities. Bev Moquin - 508-317-0295
Page Turners The Library
Pickleball Pickleball Courts
Six Pickleball Courts are available starting at 8:00 am every day.
• Lights for Night Play • Beginners Lessons
• Organized Tournaments • Clinics to Improve Member Skills
• Open Club Play 9:00 am - 1:00 pm Daily and Wednesday evening 6:00 - 8:00 pm
• Private Games in the Afternoon
You can borrow equipment from the Plantation Manor CSA Office Monday - Friday 8:00 am to 3:00 pm. For more information: tgopickleballclubboard@ gmail.com. Lessons offered from November to midApril, Wednesdays 2:00 - 4:00 pm, by appointment only. Call Pam Howland at 470-400-1168
Quilters Hobbyland
Thur - 9:30 am- 5:00 pm, all year
Join the creative enjoyment of this sewing art. Weekly meetings are held at 1:00 pm November through April. TGO Owners, please bring your door key for the craft room. Call: Debbi Walling - 925-708-3599
Radio Controlled Aircraft
Experience the “high” of flying R/C aircraft. FREE training. The airfield is less than a mile from TGO. We fly all year and are usually at the airfield by about 8:00 am. Bob Netherton - 321-269-3016
Rug Hooking Hobbyland
Tues (October - April) - 9:00 am
The TGO Traditional Rug Hooking Group invites all “Hookers and Lookers”
Call: Terri Strack - 603-540-5921
Shuffleboard Shuffleboard Courts Thurs - October - April - 1:00 pm
Sawdust Club The Pavilion
Members meeting - 2nd Tuesday (October-April) - 9:00 am. The club building is near the CSA maintenance yard and open to members 24/7/365. Members may pursue their wood and/or metalworking hobby. Loaner tools are available for any member. Membership is open to all TGO property owners. Laura Sievers 630-408-6461 tgosawdustclub.wordpress.com
Singles At Tgo The Café Wednesday 11:30 am
Join us for lunch every week. Men and women can spend an hour or two in fellowship. Meet old friends and make new ones.
Sammye Madden - 321-383-8530 or Cam Pelletier - 321-264-0691
Stampin’ Up Card Making Class Hobbyland 2nd and 4th Wednesdays at 6:00 pm and 2nd and 4th Fridays at 9:30 am. Make 3 cards for $15. All supplies provided. Reservations Required. E-mail: bdaniels@cfl. rr.com by Monday before classes or call Carol Hall - 321-289-7380
Stitching From The Heart Hobbyland Thurs- 9:30 am - 12 noon, all year. Come join in the fun of stitching your projects while you enjoy a cup of tea. Bring your key to the craft room. Teri Alexander - 321-961-1393 or Theresa Sansoucie - 603-491-4515 RETURNING IN
Discs and Cues are on the Fitness Center front wall. Please return equipment when you are finished. For after dark, there is a light switch timer by the Tennis Court fence enclosure door that is nearest to the shuffleboard courts. Call: Doug Jensen - 401-885-9731
CSA Patrol is Hiring
RETURNING IN NOVEMBER
1st Wednesday of each month - 6:30 pm Wine Please consider joining the fun! The book selection and more information can be found on FACEBOOK at TGO Page Turners.
Photo Club Plantation Manor
1st and 3rd Fridays. If you enjoy taking pictures and want to learn more, join us. Use your phone or a mirrorless camera, new faces welcome. David Spahn - 207-468-6760
Patrol offi cers play an important roll. Here is your opportunity to become an integral part of the community and help keep TGO safe by enforcing traffi c rules, and directing traffi c during emergecies. If you would be interested in working for the CSA Patrol, go online to our website: www.tgocsa.org then click on CSA Documents/Forms/Application for Committee Assignment. Or stop by the CSA offi ce to pick up an application. We Need You!
Swedish Weavers Hobbyland
Monday - 1:00 - 3:00 pm
Relax with this fun, needlecraft fabric decorating style. The simple technique can be mastered and enjoyed by all ages.
Carmella Zielinski - 321-289-0150
Tai Chi Windsong Pavilion
Monday and Wednesday 8:30 - 9:30 am
For more info call or text Dan Tracy at 608-658-4465
Tennis Club Tennis Courts
Tennis Club Members Match Play:
Mon - Wed - Fri - 8:00 am to Noon
All Tennis Players - Round-Robin - All Skill Levels: Tue - Thu - Sat - 8:00 am to Noon. Open Play Tennis - Daily Noon - 8:00 pm. Join the TGO Tennis Club. Contact any Tennis Club Board Member on court. Or call Belle Maropis - 770-695-8266
Texas Hold’em Juke Box
Tournaments on Tuesdays and Fridays at 6:00 pm in the Jukebox Recreation Room. Doyle Wilson - 502-751-4657
Texas Hold’em Mixed Groups
Juke Box - Tournaments on Thur at 6:00 pm in the Jukebox Recreation Room.
Call Andy Martenson - 321-246-0033
Texas Hold’em Women’s Poker Club Juke
Box - Sunday evenings in the game room from 6:00 - 9:00 pm. HEY GALS! Interested in playing Texas Hold ‘em? Here’s your opportunity to get in on a low-stakes limit game. Contact Elaine Meier at 716-239-6325
TGO Dance Group The Pavilion
Thurs - 6:00 - 7:00 pm
Fun, safe class learning newest trending dances from social media. FREE CLASS, but tips appreciated Join on FB page: TGO Dance Group
Ukulele Group Nature Center Tuesdays - 1:00 - 3:00 pm Join us! All levels of players welcome. Pam Campbell Taylor - 571-217-0444
All levels welcome. Call: Angie Woznick 321-269-6609 or Sally MacNevin 508-944-0082
Wood Carving Hobbyland Monday - 8:00 am - 12 noon
All skill levels welcome. Join us for whittling or relief, chip, and carving-in-the-round styles. Charlie Wing - 321-474-1952
Zumba Plantation Manor
Monday, Wednesday, Friday - 9:00 am
Fun fusion of body sculpting and dance movements to lively Latin rhythms that tone your bodyInstructor: Diana-Arujo-Fernandez
Did you know that it’s pumpkin season – of course you did! Did you know it’s part of the gourd family?
Primary facts: Pumpkin is packed with Vitamin A and antioxidants along with other nutrients that help boost the immune system. It is considered to be a superfood containing other benefits including wound healing, anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcerative properties. The seeds alone offer heart and liver health and can assist in eradication of kidney stones and prevent formation. One cup of cooked pumpkin only contains 49 calories.
TODAY’S RECIPE:
2 Ingredient Pumpkin Muffins – So YUMMY!
• 1 box of your favorite classic Yellow Cake Mix
• 1 can (15oz.) Pure Pumpkin (puree)
Directions: Preheat oven to 350° Mix the cake mix with the pumpkin in a bowl until thoroughly incorporated. Drop into ‘prepared’ muffin tin or cupcake/muffin papers – approximately 2/3rd full – then bake for 20-25 minutes.
These can be served by themselves or topped with honey. Other options are a melted butter and brown sugar drizzle or vanilla icing or cream cheese frosting.
Health sources: Mayoclinichealthsystems, Healthline,Nih.gov Recipe source: Chrissy Elwonger
Make Some and Take Them to the CSA Lawn Crew - They Would Love it!
Breakfast Club
Job change?
Whether retiring or changing jobs, you’ll want to know your retirement account options.
There are four potential options for your 401(k) when leaving an employer:
• Leave it in your former employer’s 401(k) plan, if allowed by the plan.
• Move it to your new employer’s 401(k) plan, if you’ve changed employers and your new employer plan allows for it.
• Roll the account over to an individual retirement account (IRA).
• Cash it out, which is subject to potential tax consequences.
We can talk through your financial goals and find the option that works best for you.
Roy
Board Of Directors Meeting
Plantation Manor • Wednesday, November 19, 2025 • 3:00 pm
The CSA Board of Directors are responsible for the entire operation of The Great Outdoors Community Services Association. The following list shows the current Board of Directors:
Chairman Tom Wheir 253-632-2105 chairman@tgocsa.org
District 0 Ron Wagner 607-542-6376 district0@tgocsa.org
District 1 Doug Matz 516-903-3145 district1@tgocsa.org
District 2 Dan Barnes 570-905-4906 district2@tgocsa.org
District 3 Robert Fraser 407-491-2500 district3@tgocsa.org
District 4 Lauren Clark 607-761-0092 district4@tgocsa.org
District 5 Colleen Marigliano 845-656-8394 district5@tgocsa.org
District 6 Matt Willey 518-321-1134 district6@tgocsa.org
District 7 John Comeau 321-269-5525 district7@tgocsa.org
District 8 Terry Manchik 901-603-6418 district8@tgocsa.org
District 9 Drew Proulx 207-751-9268 district9@tgocsa.org
Also part of the Board of Directors Organization are CSA Manager Billy Specht, Architectural Review Committee Temp-Chairman, Harold Witsch, and CSA Secretary Sharon Sanford. The CSA website at www.tgocsa.org has individual biographies and contact information for each director.
President’s Council Meetings
Owners are encouraged to attend all the Board of Direc tor meetings . Green speaker cards are available if an owner wishes to address the board for three minutes about any issue. An informational packet with the meeting agenda is given to each household that attends. Prior to the meeting, the agenda is posted on official bulletin boards. The board meeting is televised LIVE on channel 732.
CSA Board of Directors meetings are held on the third Wednesday from October through May. Planning meetings to set the agenda for the Board of Directors meetings are scheduled October to May on the second Wednesday of the month in the CSA Conference Room at 3:00 pm. They are open to attend for any TGO owner.
District Meetings
There are ten CSA voting districts at The Great Outdoors. They are non-geographical, but are determined by the last digit in each property’s street address. The District Meetings are held monthly from October through May. Various districts join together to hold combined monthly meetings. There are two meetings per month with five districts in each one. Please note the upcoming meeting schedule if you want to attend your district meeting. In the PAVILION: Stay tuned for future dates scheduled for October, 2025.
President Council Meetings will start back on October 21 with meetings at the CSA Pavilion on the third (3rd) Tuesday of each month at 10:00 am. Chuck Benoit is the Chairman of the Council and Ron Young is the Vice Chairperson. Owners are invited to attend.
2024 Condominium/HOA Presidents
Condo President Phone# Email
I Pat Dick 321-848-2813 tgo.condo1@gmail.com
II Kay Dennison 505-350-4340 tgo.condoii@gmail.com
III Ron Young 540-294-4044 tgo.condo3president@gmail.com
IV Blaine Littlefield 207-798-2279 tgo.condo4pres@gmail.com
V Chuck Johnson 978-729-6248 tgo.condo5@gmail.com
VI Penny Harlow 808-561-8559 tgo.condo6@gmail.com
VII Len Perkins 757-651-0582 tgo.condo7pres@gmail.com
VIII Dot Raab 407-968-4795 tgocondo8@yahoo.com
IX Stephen Sohles 804-824-8180 tgo.condo9pres@gmail.com
X Cindy Marini 440-829-8633 tgocondo10@gmail.com
Condo President Phone# Email
XI Leonard Caton 321-567-3009 tgo.condo11board@gmail.com
XII Matthew Willey 518-321-1134 condo12tgo@gmail.com
FHOA Ken Birtwistle 401-580-5071 tgofairways@gmail.com
XIV Jay Fetner 307-409-1407 tgo.condo14@gmail.com
XV David Spahn 207-468-6760 tgocondo15@gmail.com
XVI Chuck Benoit 978-314-9945 tgo.condo16@gmail.com
XVII Pete Bronson 315-263-6469 tgo.condo17pres@gmail.com
XVIII Dave Legrow 954-701-5770 tgo.condo18pres@gmail.com
XIX Carl Rosner 516-241-1877 pres@tgocondo19.com
APHOA Cammy Miller 407-592-4059 tgoaddison@gmail.com
“When no one steps forward, the community stands still. Progress depends not on what we have, but on who is willing to give their time.”
ARC Office Hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Closed from Noon to 1:00 pm for lunch.
Architectural Review Committee (ARC) Members - Contact Information
Chairman - Harold Witschi* 716-998-6393
District 0 - Lisa Berkis 267-549-3674
District 1 - Harold Witschi 716-998-6393
District 2 - Scott Lancaster 505-269-4851
District 3 - James Alonzo
518-577-7666
District 4 - Pete Bronson 315-263-6469
District 5 - Open for Election
District 6 - Greg Mackey 219-322-5555
District 7 - Doug Jensen 401-885-9731
District 8 - Bill Flatt 321-626-5594
District 9 - Lisa Babcock 903-372-8849
* Temporary until elections in January
The Architectural Review Committee is looking for a new Chairman and a District 5 representative. They will be elected in our annual TGO elections held January 26, 2026. If you are interested in one of these positions contact Vicki Littlefield, Chairperson of Election Committee at 207-798-2278
Architectural Review Committee
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the next ARC Meetings will be held on Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at 10:00 am on the Manor Porch.
The Architectural Review Committee meets for planning purposes on the Plantation Manor Porch at 10:00 am on Monday, October 27, 2025.
Application Review Agenda: Approve field approvals, old business, non-compliance violations, new business, adjorn. All changes to your property that are visible on the outside require advance approval from the Architectural Review Committee. Application forms and ARC Guidelines may be obtained from the Community Services Association office or printed from The Great Outdoors Community Services Association website at www.tgocsa.org. All completed ARC forms must be submitted to the CSA office by Noon on the Wednesday before the next Wednesday meeting. Results will be available to pick up after the ARC meeting or from the CSA Office.
Be sure ALL necessary paperwork is included with your ARC application. No approval will be given without having all the required data available at the ARC Meeting for review.
The Architectural Review Committee (ARC) will provide owners with a clear understanding of what is allowed and when ARC approval is needed. Gaining ARC approval is facilitated through a responsive process that is easy to use.
The ARC Guidelines and Application Form are available for download at TGOCSA.org or you can also pick up an application in the CSA Office Monday, Wednesday or Friday from 8:00 am until 5:00 pm. Applications must be submitted to the CSA Office by 12:00 Noon on the Wednesday prior to the following Wednesday meeting date to be considered at that meeting.
The ARC is elected by property owners. ARC has eleven members, ten elected from representative districts and one elected by the whole membership to serve as chairman. Each ARC term is two years. Districts are determined by the last number of each address (ex: 324 Plantation would be District 4).
If you have questions regarding ARC, please call the ARC Chairman, your ARC representative, or the CSA Office at 321-268-9767.
TGO Committees - And Their Contact Information
The Great Outdoors is home to several resident-led committees that help keep our community running smoothly and looking its best. These committees occasionally seek new members, and volunteering is a great way to contribute your time and talents. If you have experience or interest in any of the areas listed below, feel free to reach out to the committee chairman to ask about current openings. Your involvement makes a difference!
ARC Committee
Harold “Tuco” Witschi arcchair@tgocsa.com
Elections Committee
Vicki Littlefield vickilynnl@prodigy.net
Finance Committee
Matthew Willey district6@tgocsa.org
Firewise Committee
Butch Jones butch_jones2001@yahoo.com
Human Resources Committee
Lauren Clark district4@tgocsa.org
Infrastructure & Natural Resources Committee
Drew Proulx district9@tgocsa.org
Landscaping and Beautification Committee
Tim Graham dancingcracker@gmail.com
Planning & Building Committee
Ron Wagner district0@tgocsa.org
Rules & Regulations Committee
Lynn Jacobs jjacobs120@aol.com
Safety & Security Committee
John Comeau district7@tgocsa.org
Traffic Infractions Committee
Cindy Marini clmarini@aol.com
Our Fall Menu Is Here
Black Cat Coffee
Coffee Shop and Roastery
3355 Foley Road - Behind Starling Ford
Open Monday - Friday 6am to 3pm Sat - 7am to 3pm Sun - 8am to 3pm
The Freshest Coffee in Titusville
940 Cheney Highway - State Road 50 Across from Region Bank
Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 5:30 pm Saturday 8:00 am - 12:00 noon Dr. Mina Zaky
• State-of-the-Art Technology
• Experienced, Well-Trained Staff
• Vaccines, Digital X-Rays, Spay/Neuter, Surgery
• Care for Small Animals, Avian, Exotics, Pocket Pets
• Laser Therapy, Dental Cleaning, Microchipping
• Brevard County Licensing, Emergency Care Call to Schedule an Appointment... 321-607-6897
TitusvilleAnimalCareClinic.com
A short and helpful reference for living in TGO
Get a FREE copy at the CSA Office.
Plantation
Manor Pool & Spa
OPEN Every Day: 8:00 am - Dusk
“Dusk” is different throughout the year. Please check the chart in the pool area. Please lower umbrellas after use so they’re not damaged by wind gusts.
Oak Cove Pool & Spa
OPEN: 7:00 am - 11:00 pm
Daily cleaning from 6:00 - 7:00 am
Wear or have in your possession a Pool Wristband. They are FREE and can be obtained from the Plantation Manor CSA Office.
Residents use lime green bands. Visitors use bands that are red, white and blue. Your guests are welcome to keep their bands as a souvenir of their visit to TGO.
Emergency Vehicle Protocol
Florida and TGO share the same vehicle and traffic laws as the rest of the US: Everyone must yield to emergency vehicles. If there’s no shoulder on the road, simply stop to allow an emergency vehicle to pass. We have all been driving long enough to know this. Please, when you see emergency vehicles coming in with lights flashing, pull over and let them pass! It could be your loved ones they are here for.
Contractor Restrictions
Contractors employed for repairs, construction, renovation, or installation at residences that are in The Great Outdoors are not allowed to work on Sunday, except in an emergency or with the advance permission of the CSA.
From Monday through Saturday, contractors must leave TGO by 6:00 pm from October 1 to April 30 and by 7:00 pm from May 1 to September 30.
Call the CSA Office at 321-268-9767 during regular weekday office hours to request any exceptions to these contractor work restrictions.
Lorraine Murphy Historic Center
Located in the CSA Conference Room next to Trimmer’s Salon. Available to tour:
Monday - Friday • 3:00 - 5:00 pm Visit the CSA Office to borrow the key. The Historic Center can be shown on weekends and holidays.
Call for an appointment: Lorraine Murphy at 321-431-4526
Love Nature? Want to Help Protect It?
Ready to make a difference right here in The Great Outdoors? The Firewise Committee is looking for a few passionate volunteers to join our group of dedicated neighbors who care about keeping our community safe and beautiful. We have two openings just waiting for someone like you!
What’s involved?
Spend time outside in the fresh air. Work alongside a friendly, down-to-earth team. Help keep our beautiful community safe from wildfire risks. No experience needed - just bring your enthusiasm and love for the outdoors! Together, we can make The Great Outdoors even greater.
Interested? Stop by the CSA office and pick up an application form or go on-line to the website: www.tgocsa.org, then click on CSA Documents/Forms/Application for committee assignment. Fill out the form and take it to the CSA office.
CSA Trash Pick Up Rules
The CSA crew picks up household trash 364 days of the year (off for Christmas). You’ll see them in a big truck pulling one or more green hoppers behind it. The guy crouching on the hopper grabs your trash bag as they pass by. To make the process efficient, please follow these rules:
• Trash must be placed in plastic bags that are tied closed. Lightweight bags should be tied together. Trash that is not in plastic bags may not be picked up.
• Break down all boxes and put all packing material in a closed bag.
• Place trash within one foot of the road so that it’s within easy reach.
• Dispose of your pet’s waste inside the closed trash bag.
• Put trash out at the curb by 10:00 am - Pick-up time varies within the park.
• Do not mix household trash with organic yard debris or construction materials.
• Do not put trash out at night because by morning it will have been scattered by wild animals.
Please do not allow pets to urinate on trash or debris.
The crew has to pick this up!
• Also, be aware that if you place your trash out on the street too early, the vultures think you have prepared them a sack lunch!
CSA Yard Debris Pick-Up Rules
The CSA crew picks up organic yard debris at least once per week. Tree trimmings should be cut down to a maximum of 4 feet long, weigh less than 50 pounds, and be stacked uniformly at the curb. Loose material such as pine needles, leaves and small twigs must be collected in untied plastic bags or open containers. The CSA will not pick up sod, dirt, tree stumps, construction material (e.g., concrete, wood, drywall, metal), chemicals (e.g., paint, oil), major appliances, or tires. DO NOT bring these items to the CSA Maintenance Yard yourself. They may be dropped off, without charge, at the Brevard County Mockingbird Mulching Facility (321-264-5009) on South Street (SR405). Go past the Lowes SR405 entrance then turn LEFT at the first traffic signal. Most other waste items such as carpet, porcelain plumbing fixtures, etc., that are not mentioned above can be dropped off at the Brevard County Transfer Station (321-264-5048) that is also on South Street (SR405), but 0.5 mile past Lowes on the same side of the street.
Clearing Vegetation on CSA Property
Our Declaration of Covenants states that “No CSA land may be cleared of any vegetation without prior written permission from the Board of Directors or its designee. Unauthorized clearing of CSA property will result in a hearing, with possible fines and ordered replanting.” This only makes sense, as you would not cut vegetation on someone else’s property without permission first. In order to track this better, we will require anyone seeking permission to cut vegetation on CSA property to fill out an ARC permit. An approved permit must include the CSA manager’s signature, and a copy of the permit will be filed in your ARC file for documentation purposes.
Guide to Living With Alligators in TGO
There are 32 lakes in The Great Outdoors and all of them are home to alligators. Please keep these points in mind to be safe when alligators could be nearby:
• It is illegal to feed, taunt or harass an alli gator.
• Do not swim or wade in any of our lakes.
• Do not walk near the shorelines and do not walk your pets near the shoreline.
• Do not allow your pets to swim, exercise or drink in or near our lakes.
• While alligators can be active at any time, they are most active between dusk and dawn and move during the night to different water sources.
• Please give our alligators the respect and space they deserve.
NOTE: If you come across an aggressive alligator, please contact the CSA Office prior to SNAP and allow us to handle any situation.
Service and Set-Up Calls - 833-697-7328
The CSA has a contract with Spectrum that includes Spectrum TV Select and Spectrum Internet services. If you are experiencing problems with their service or need to set up a new service, call the number above. Tell them your community at The Great Outdoors has a bulk agreement known as the Bronze Package.
TGO Community Channel 732
Our television channel of the Community Services Association will be active for broadcasting board meetings. Your TV must be equipped with a Spectrum TV cable box or digital adapter.
Automated Visitor Call-In - 321-383-8802
To call in a visitor at the gate, you must call in No More than 24 hours prior to your visitor’s arrival. You will have two options - you may request a one day pass or a two day pass. The phone number you use must already be registered with the CSA Offi ce for the access request to be accepted. This system can not confirm that your request was received and can not respond to any additional messages.
CSA Trouble Calls - 321-268-9767
If you have questions about lawn spraying, getting sprinklers adjusted, or any other services provided by the Community Services Association, residents should contact the CSA Office by email at service@tgocsa.org or call 321-268-9767 to mention your concerns.
Vehicle Barcodes
If your vehicle needs a barcode installed, call the CSA Office at 321-268-9767 to schedule a REQUIRED appointment. Barcodes are $10 - new or replacement. They install them everyday, but will not do “walk-in” applications.
Propane For Sale
Mon - Fri - 8:30, 9:30, 10:30, 11:30 am
By Appointment Only - TGO Commercial Area - West of the CSA Building.
CSA offers LP Gas for your convenience and is currently $4.00/gallon, plus 7% sales tax!
Cash or check accepted.
Call the CSA Office at 321-268-9767 for an appointment or visit during office hours. Payment by cash or check. No credit cards accepted at this time.
TruGreen regularly applies spray applications to our lawns and common areas that includes an herbicide for weed control, a liquid fertilizer, and an insecticide to kill chinch bugs, and other turf-damaging insects.
The application dates for 2025: November 18 & 19
TruGreen is also offering “service-call” visits to TGO. If you are still having problems with lawn pests or weeds, call the CSA Office at 321-268-9767, and we will put your address on the TruGreen list.
Service Call Dates are: October 23 & November 6
TruGreen advises all TGO residents to stay off treated areas of your lawn, and to keep your pets off treated areas, until the application has thoroughly dried.
AED Basics (Automated External Defibrillator)
Have Someone Call 9-1-1 While You Operate AED
The Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a portable electronic device that diagnoses incorrect heart rhythm patterns that could potentially be life threatening. The device treats the condition with electrical shocks.
AED use requires minimal training because an electronic voice prompts the user through each step. If you are helping a person who collapsed and you’re unsure if a heart attack is the reason, don’t hesitate to use the AED. Every minute counts.
The device determines if the patient needs an electrical shock or not. Simply place the AED pads on the patient’s bare skin, one on the right upper chest and the other on their lower left side. No one else should be touching the patient because false readings could result. The AED will advise you, the device operator, what to do next.
TGO Has Eight AEDs Located at CSA buildings.
1. Blue Heron - Outside Ramp 137 Plantation Drive
2. CSA Office - Outside 100-D Plantation Drive
3. Fitness Center 145 Plantation Drive
4. Hidden Lakes Clubhouse 461 Ambleside Drive
5. Library Kitchen 385 Plantation Drive
6. Oak Cove Pool Bathhouse 434 Oak Cove Road
7. Plantation Manor 145 Plantation Way
8. Windsong Bathhouse 155 Windsong Way
Golf Cart Gas
Monday - Friday - 9:00 - 11:00 am
The Community Services Association offers gasoline at the CSA Maintenance Area for TGO residents’ Golf Carts. Fill-up time is Monday through Friday from 9:00 - 11:00 am. The gas price is based on the prevailing rate charged to the CSA. Payment is CASH ONLY.
SUDOKU puzzles have one solution that can be reached logically without guessing. Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row, column, and 3x3 square must contain one of each digit.
TGO MarketPlace
Randy’s Specialty Services
Classified Ads
Classified Ads are only for tangible and real Property that are For Sale, For Rent or Wanted within TGO. They are not for Services Provided or out of park items. Classified ads are for TGO residents only. Cost is $10 per ad for 25 words maximum. Payment can be made by credit card, cash or check, payable to “CSA” at time of placing your ad. No refunds for early cancellation. You must fill out a Classified Ad Form that is available ONLY at the CSA Office, 100 D Plantation Drive.
RV
LOTS, HOMES, MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS FOR SALE OR RENT
FOR SALE: 538 Oak Cove Road - Park Model - Desirable, Quiet 2Bdr, 2Ba - W/D. 2021 New HVAC & Water Heater. 2025 New roof, blinds, LVP flooring & paint. 11’ port clearance. $258,500 with $2,500/Month lease option available. Call 386-290-9105 (exp 10/17)
FOR RENT: 133 Sunset Drive - Park Model Available Immediately thru winter. 2 BR, 2 Bath, W/D. No pets, no smoking. 217-732-2418 (exp 10/17)
FOR RENT: 429 Plantation Drive - Port Site - 14’ clearance. Rate based on length of stay. 440-878-8700 or jeff@smutek.com (exp 10/17)
FOR RENT: 548 Lake Drive - Park Model - Available Nov-Apr. 2 Bdr, 2Ba & W/D - No Pets or Smoking. 302-218-1035 (exp 11/14)
FOR SALE: Golf Cart - 2023 Club Car Onward - Great Shape. $8,500 586-913-5588 (exp 10/17)
FOR SALE / RENT: 557 Lake Dr. - 2 Master Suites each w/ full bath, new roof, HVAC & appliances. Call/Text 270-929-8076 (exp 10/31)
We Have Three Committee Openings
Landscape & Beautification Committee
We are looking to fill three positions. This committee helps provide landscaping and beautification project planning for CSA and is also responsible for the general health of the lakes within the community. If you have expertise in landscaping design (especially in Florida), lake biology, or simply want to contribute to making TGO better looking, please stop by the CSA office and pick up an application.
Safety & Security Committee
They are lookingfor a committee member. This committee monitors the safety, security and communications operations in TGO to assure this is a safe community for our residents, guests and employees. The Committee periodically inspects CSA facilities to insure compliance with established safety and security practices and procedures to identify potential safety hazards and security concerns and recommends policies and/or actions to the Board.
Human Resources Committee
They are lookingfor a committee member. This Committee works with the CSA Manager on the development and implementation of CSA human resource policies and procedures, and serves as an advisor to the CSA Board and the CSA Manager on human resource policies and procedures.
Applications Available Online...
Go to www.tgocsa.org then click on CSA documents/ forms/application for committee assignment. Fill out the form and deliver to the office. Or ask for an application at the CSA office. If you have previously filled out an application, please redo your application to bring it up to date.
Keep Your Swing Up To Par
Whether it’s back pain, stiffness, or limited range of motion, Chiropractic Care keeps you in alignment - so you can focus on your swing, not your symptoms.
At Active Spine Center, we offer personalized therapies and techniques designed to make your journey to pain relief, recovery, and total-body wellness effective and rewarding. We provide an array of specialized services to help get you back on your feet and and keep you moving forward with confidence and ease.
• Chiropractic Care
• Spinal Decompression
• Near-Infrared Laser Therapy
• Dry Needling
• Body Contouring Shrinks the Fat Cells and Helps in Losing Weight
• Neuropathy Treatment
Dr. Erin Przybyla, D.C.
in October and
be used any time up to May 1, 2026.
AGGIES
BEARS
BENGALS
BOBCATS
BLACK BEARS
BLUE HOSE BUCCANEERS
DUKES
EAGLES
FIGHTIN’ BLUE
HENS
FIGHTING
HAWKS
FLAMES
GREAT DANES
GRIZZLIES
HAWKS
HORNETS
KANSAS STATE
LSU
LUMBERJACKS
MUSTANGS
OSU
OU
OWLS
PHOENIX
RAMS
RUNNIN’ BULLDOGS
SEAWOLVES
SPIDERS
THUNDERBIRDS
TIGERS
TRIBE VIKINGS
WILDCATS
ACTIVITIES OFFICE - Logo Items
Inside the Hobbyland Building
Carmella Zielinski • 321-289-0150
BLUE HERON RESTAURANT
321-385-9100
11:00 am - 8:00 pm Daily
Lunch and Dinner or Take-Out Food www.blueheronrestaurant.org
THE CAFÉ at the Blue Heron Restaurant
321-385-9100
Entrance Door just past Golf Shop Door
Lunch and Dinner
11:00 am - 8:00 pm Daily
CSA OFFICE - 321-268-9767
Monday - Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Closed 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
100 D Plantation Drive
EAGLE’S PRIDE - 321-383-0288
RV Parts, Service and Supplies
Monday - Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Closed Weekends Eaglespriderv@yahoo.com
EAGLE’S PRIDE RV SALES - 321-383-4495
Consignment RV Sales Lot
Monday - Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Closed Sunday • sales@eaglespriderv.com
GUARD GATE - 321-383-2004
Call to alert Courtesy Patrol about any TGO community problem. Call to request assistance from CSA On-Site Maintenance.
GOLFCARTS UNLIMITED - 321-268-4882
Yamaha - Club Car - MadJax - DACH Sales, Service and Rentals
VISITOR ACCESS - 321-383-8802 Call to arrange a one day or two day Guest Pass for a visitor.
THE HAPPENINGS
Open Monday - Friday • 8:00 am - 5:00 pm • 100D Plantation Drive
The Great Outdoors Community Services Association (CSA) publishes The Happenings for the information and enjoyment of its members and their guests. The CSA assumes no liability for any information, omission or inadvertent error contained herein; or injury or damage resulting from the use of this information. The ideas, opinions, suggestions, classified ads, and commercial ads are to be used at the reader’s discretion. The CSA and group or individual contributors do not signify any approval, authentication, or endorsement by inclusion in this publication. For advertising rates or editorial information, contact The Happenings: Happenings@tgocsa.com
BATTLING THE MYTHS OF Mammography
It’s expensive, it can be painful, and a few other misconceptions we wish to explore.
Myth 1: Insurance won’t cover it, or I won’t be able to afford the co-pay/deductible.
“Mammography is usually covered under most health plans, including Medicare, once a woman reaches an age determined by the insurer,” says Shannon Luker, RN, BSN, Parrish Healthcare Oncology Navigator.
If you have Medicare and are age 65 or older, Medicare pays for most of the cost of a screening mammogram every 12 months.
Myth 2: The test is too painful.
Yes, the test can be a bit uncomfortable, but most women don’t consider it painful.
Compression helps hold the breast still, evens out the breast tissue and allows lower doses of X-ray to be used. If you feel pain, speak up. The technologist may be able to lower the compression and relieve some of the pressure on your breast. And remember that any discomfort is brief; the actual X-ray takes less than a minute.
HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT BREAST CONDITIONS, EXAMINATIONS AND TESTS?
Shannon Luker, RN, BSN, Parrish Healthcare Oncology Navigator, is here to help.
Myth 3: I just don’t have time.
Contact Shannon at 321-268-6111, ext. 3544.
From start to finish, the three-dimensional (3D) mammogram offered at Parrish Healthcare takes 30 to 45 minutes.
State of the art technology, such as this, makes it easier for providers to diagnose certain types of breast abnormalities, especially in women with dense breasts. The result? Early detection and better outcomes reduce the number of deaths from breast cancer for women ages 40 to 69, especially those older than 50.
Myth 4: Breast cancer only affects older women. Breast cancer can occur at any age. Additional factors that may raise your risk include obesity, heavy alcohol consumption and a sedentary lifestyle.
