Production
Staying Connected
JANE BREISCH, EDITOR CVGOLFERS@GMAIL.COM
To our returning seasonal members – welcome! We have missed you! These pages contain a ton of upcoming fall activities… from Book Club, to the Fall Craft Show on October 24, To UClub programs, to Fitness & Wellness Committee presentations, to the Heritage Palms Veteran’s Assoc. Golf Outing on October 26, etc. You should never be bored at HP! Check ’em out in this issue!
To ensure you’re entertained once you’re at HP, I’ve also created a listing of the many productions taking place at four of our area theatres this coming season. They begin on page 38.
Speaking of productions… my husband and I have attended two Candlelight Concerts this summer. They are a unique experience, and definitely worth catching! According to their website, “It’s all about the mix: spectacular venues, unmatched energy, thousands of candles, and a curated selection of songs played in a way you’ve never heard before. Classical music, reimagined. Yes, every genre.
From Antonia Vivaldi to rom-com and sci-fi soundtracks, jazz, and even tributes to Coldplay, Abba, Queen, Adele, Taylor Swift, and the Beatles.” Go to https:// feverup.com/en/fort-myers/candlelight to see the performances offered in downtown Fort Myers. The Florida Repertory Theatre is hosting 16 concerts, just between this October and December, with many more in 2026. ***********
For all of you Halloween aficionados, please see my article Halloween Unveiled …
on page 10. It even includes multiple choice trivia questions to test your knowledge of the holiday. ***********
Do you know anyone who has shot their age, or better, on one of our HP golf courses? If so , please let me know, and I’ll highlight that rare achievement in an upcoming issue. Speaking of which, please go to page 44 to see who shot better than her age on the Sabal golf course in August!
***********
Did you know there’s a resource on our HP website that lists the names of contactors and other service providers your fellow members have recommended? It’s called the Services Referral Book . Check it out before you think of hiring that contractor. We’ve also recently updated the listings, and are definitely in need of more referrals. For more details, see my article titled Stop Before You Hire That Contractor ... on page 28.
I believe most of you read this issue in the magazine format on-line. If you choose to download it to your computer as a PDF (Adobe) for viewing, it’s easy to do. When BTP is first opened, scroll down to the bottom of page 1. When there, simply click the downward arrow icon (see sample #3 at right) to download the magazine
as a PDF on your laptop, iPad, or cell phone. For viewing purposes, on the right-hand side of the PDF page, click the display icon and choose “Two-page view” and “Show cover page.” It will appear just like the on-line magazine version! If you download the issue, you can print any page you like, and also store any current or prior issue on your laptop. It’s easypeasy!
Should you have an article to submit for the November issue, my deadline is October 1. Post Cards are always welcome! Please email to cvgolfers@gmail.com .
Labor Day Scramblin’ Fun
JANE BREISCH, EDITOR
PHOTOS BY DAVID DEVEREAUX
HP’s annual Labor Day Scramble was held on the Sabal course Monday morning, September 1, under sunny skies. The 131-player field was divided into five flights, with 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places earning $100, $90, and $80 respectively per team in Pro Shop credit. Teams also competed for skins in each flight, with $100 available per flight. A total of 27 skins were won.
The first-place winners per flight were:
• Flight 1: Sue & Chris Hibberd, Ron Decock, and Joyce Preiss.
• Flight 2: Paula & Glen Hyre, and Linda & Steve Sergesketter.
• Flight 3: Shawna & Bob Fay, and Lisa & Tony Gordon
OSLER JR. KICKED OFF THE MORNING WITH A TRUMPET RENDITION OF THE NATIONAL ANTHEM.
• Flight 4: Elena & Doug Muller, Carole Condon, and Todd Widholm.
• Flight 5: Norene & Brian McFadden, Cathy O’Shia, and Allyn Leake.
Following golf, players gathered in the Palms Dining Room for a delicious buffet.
SCOTT
L-R: RAY & KIM MILLER, AND KIRSTEN & ROB SHOVLIN.
L-R: DAN & KATHY CARVER, AND LAURA & BOB O’FLYNN.
L-R: CAROL GIDDENS, JAMIE UNGER, MELANIE ROETTING, AND BARB BARLOW.
L-R: LISA & TONY GORDON, AND SHAWNA & BOB FAY.
L-R: JON & LORI SWANELL, AND REBECCA & CARROLL MAJORS.
FOR MORE PHOTOS SEE PAGE 54 OR CLICK HERE
Halloween Unveiled…
COMPILED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES BY
Halloween is a time of year when the veil between fact and fiction seems to blur, where the ordinary becomes eerie, and the history of this holiday often gets lost amidst the costumes and candy. How much do you really know about the origins of Halloween, the reasons behind our traditions, and the ways it’s celebrated around the world? Test your knowledge with some Halloween trivia that might just surprise you.
Multiple choice trivia questions (answers found at the bottom of the article – no cheating!):
1. Halloween originated in which country? – Ireland, USA, Mexico, Greece
2. Who is known as the “Friendly Ghost?” – Danny, Casper, Slimer, Boo
3. How many bones are there in the average human skeleton? - 200, 197, 364, 206
4. Before pumpkins, jack-o-lanterns were carved using what? – watermelon, papaya, turnips, pineapple
JANE BREISCH, EDITOR
5. Which is the only mammal that can fly? – bat, pigeon, butterfly, bee
6. What do you call a group of witches? –coven, guild, salem, divination
7. How many legs does a spider have? –6, 8, 10, 4
8. Which movie killer is known for his hockey mask? – Ghostface, Michael Myers, John Kramer, Jason Vorhees
9. What is a lycanthrope? – a mummy, a vampire, a witch, a werewolf
10. Who wrote “Frankenstein?” – Mary Shelley, Louisa May Alcott, Harper Lee, Jane Austen
11. Why was it called a bonfire? – Bonds between people are meant to be made around it, they used to be made of bones lit on fire, originally “bornfire,” which was used in rituals for conception, derived from the word “Bon,” a popular Japanese festival
12. Which well-known figure died on Halloween? – Michael Jackson, Harry Houdini, Bram Stoker, Alfred Hitchcock
13. Who created iconic horror characters such as Pennywise, Carrie White, Annie Wilkes, and Jack Torrance? –Wes Anderson, George A. Romero, HP Lovecraft, Stephen King
14. Transylvania, the home of Dracula, is located where? – Romania, Portugal, Liechtenstein, Kosovo
15. On Halloween, what are you supposed to see if you wear your clothes inside out and walk backward? – vampire, devil, ghost, witch
16. What kind of ghost is known for making noises and throwing things around? – Dybbuk, Oni, Wendigo, Poltergeist
17. According to botanists, in which category does pumpkin fall into? –fruit, vegetable, root crop, nut
18. Halloween is based on the pagan festival of which group of people? –Greeks, Egyptians, Celts, Aztecs
19. Which U.S. state produces the most pumpkins? Illinois, Texas, Iowa, Missouri
20. Which feature is the legendary Sleepy Hollow best known for? – he lacks a head, his horse is in flames, he has no eyes, he turns into a bat
21. Who sang the original rendition of “Monster Mash?” – Ray Parker Jr, Survivor, Bobby Pickett, Michael Jackson
22. What was candy corn originally called? – guitar pick, poultry pick, chicken feed, cobble gobble
23. The concept of zombie originates from a voodoo religion of which country? – Egypt, Haiti, Spain, Dominican Republic
24. Without considering inflation, what is the highest-grossing horror movie of all time? –Jaws, It, The Exorcist, Annabelle
25. Halloween and its traditions are based on which pagan festival? – Imbolc, Eostre, Samhain, Beltane
History of Halloween
Halloween has evolved from ancient rituals. Halloween celebrations trace back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. This event marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. The Celts believed that on the night of October 31, the boundaries between the living and the dead blurred, allowing spirits to return to Earth.
All Saints’ Eve Transition
As Christianity spread into Celtic lands, the pagan customs merged with Christian observances. November 1 was designated as All Saints’ Day, a time to honor saints and martyrs, incorporating some of the traditions of Samhain. The evening prior was known as All Hallows’ Eve and later Halloween.
Spread to North America
Your modern Halloween festivities were shaped significantly as immigrants brought their various practices to North America. It melded Irish and Scottish customs with American traditions,
transforming into a community-centered holiday with activities like trick-ortreating and pumpkin carving.
Halloween Customs and Traditions
Halloween is imbued with time-honored practices ranging from door-to-door candy collection to donning disguises and carving pumpkins. You walk from house to house, usually in costume, seeking treats with the phrase “Trick or treat.”
You don intricately themed costumes and gather at parties where you celebrate with games and festivities, showcasing an array of supernatural and pop-culture figures.
Jack-o’-Lantern Lore
You carve pumpkins into jack-o’-lanterns, lighting them to ward off evil spirits, a practice stemming from the Irish myth of Stingy Jack, encapsulating the blending of folklore and fun in your Halloween celebrations.
Trivia Answers: 1) Ireland 2) Casper 3) 206 4) turnips 5) bat 6) coven 7) 8 8) Jason Vorhees 9) a werewolf 10) Mary Shelley 11) they used to be made of bones lit on fire 12) Harry Houdini 13) Stephen King 14) Romania 15) witch 16) poltergeist 17) fruit 18) Celts 19) Illinois 20) he lacks a head 21) Bobby Pickett 22) chicken feed 23) Haiti 24) It 25) Samhain
On Friday, August 29, the Palms Dining Room was decorated with 80’s themed decorations –bright colored flashy sunglasses, fake transistor radios, and huge remote phones. 139 HP members
Totally 80’s at HP
JANE BREISCH, EDITOR
gathered for a delicious buffet, and scrumptious desserts made by our F & B staff. We danced to tunes from the 80’s (and more recent years) performed by Double Dare. It was a blast from the past!
JANE BREISCH, EDITOR
HP’s GM Traci Irons Izzo and Board President Ron Assisi hosted both a presentation and a questions and answers session on Friday, August 8 from 10 a.m. to noon. 87 members attended in person, with another 35 or so participating via Zoom. Members were given a number of
updates on current HP “projects,” and the opportunity to comment/ask questions on same. All questions submitted in advance were addressed and responded to during the meeting.
Traci shared a Power Point presentation which can be viewed on our website. Just scroll down to “Coffee with…” at the bottom of our Documents page by clicking here: documents page. The actual meeting was recorded on Zoom, and is also available on our website at the same location, or by clicking here .
L-R:
GM TRACI IRONS IZZO, AND BOARD PRESIDENT RON ASSISE.
“Living Well Longer” Series Begins
LISA SCHNECK, CPT, CNC, TPI-2 WELLNESS AND ACTIVITIES DIRECTOR
LSCHNECK@HPGCC.COM
We all know the saying: “everyone wants to grow old, but nobody wants to feel old.” For many of us, the vision of “aging well” is less about stopping the clock, and more about making the most of the time left on it. By maintaining our energy, clarity, and independence, we can truly enjoy these years! At Heritage Palms, our new Living Well Series is designed to explore exactly that.
Beginning in October, this monthly lunch and learn series will take members on a journey through the science and practice of longevity. Each session will focus on one of the pillars of healthy living – movement, nutrition, brain health, sleep, healing, and functional independence – while offering simple, evidence-based tools that you can start using immediately.
Why Start with a Blueprint?
The first seminar, The Longevity Blueprint: Science & Mindset for Healthy Aging, lays the foundation for the entire series. It begins with a fascinating question: why do we age the way we do? Science tells us it isn’t just about the number of birthdays we’ve had. Aging reflects the gradual changes in our cells and systems – from how our mitochondria (the “power plants” of our cells) produce energy to how our bodies handle inflammation and repair damaged DNA.
But here’s the hopeful part: these processes are not set in stone. Researchers refer to them as “modifiable factors.” That means the choices we make every day – how we move, what we eat, how well we rest, even how we think about aging – can influence how gracefully we move through the years.
Mindset Matters
One of the most surprising discoveries in longevity research is the role of mindset. Studies show that people with a positive outlook on aging not only live longer but also recover faster from illness and injury. If you think of aging as decline, your body often follows that script. If you view it as an opportunity to keep learning, moving, and connecting, your biology responds differently.
This seminar will help members recognize those hidden scripts and begin rewriting them. Along the way, you’ll learn how to set meaningful health goals, track small but powerful changes, and build habits that stick.
Practical and Action-Oriented
The Longevity Blueprint isn’t just a lecture. It’s a chance to reflect, ask questions, and leave with a clear understanding of next steps. We’ll translate the science of aging
Congratulations Jill!
JANE BREISCH, EDITOR
Our own Jill Eaton, HP’s Director of Membership Services, earned her CAM (Community Association Manager) License on July 30!
In Jill’s words… “Earning this license has been a goal of mine for quite some time, and I’m grateful for the support I’ve received from my co-workers, supervisors, and family along the way. It took quite a bit of studying, but it was well worth it. I’m on the ARC Committee, and with my background in construction, I believe holding my CAM License will be helpful.
JILL EATON, CAM
“The process required an application, fingerprinting, and background check, along with completing a 16-hour pre-licensing course. I chose Larson Educational Services for the course, which came highly recommended by both Joney Kelly and Traci Iron Izzo. Fun fact: Rick Larson, the owner of the school, is also a member here at HP –always nice to support local businesses!
“After completing the exam on July 28, I was thrilled to learn immediately that I had passed (though no score was given). Based on my practice exams – my last two were 91% – I feel confident I did very well.”
Please join me in congratulating Jill on her achievement next time you see her!
Tennis: World’s Healthiest Sport
CHAD DYER, CDYER@HPGCC.COM
As you were watching the U.S. Open this past month, you may have viewed it during the commercials, or seen it on Arthur Ashe Stadium Court: “Tennis: World’s Healthiest Sport.”
When we step onto the tennis court, we know we are in for a fun, competitive game. However, what many don’t realize, is that tennis is often ranked as the “world’s healthiest sport.” Studies and health experts consistently highlight the game we all love as one of the best activities for overall well-being. Playing tennis regularly is one of the best investments you can make in your health. Here is why tennis holds that title…
1. A Total – Body Workout
Every rally in tennis is a blend of mini sprints, lunges, pivots, and swings. Tennis involves multiple muscle groups, and keeps the body moving in all directions. All help with improved cardiovascular fitness, stronger bones, enhanced flexibility, and better balance.
2. Mental Sharpness
Tennis is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. Each point challenges us to think strategically, stay focused, and make split-second decisions. Research shows
that playing tennis regularly can improve concentration, problem-solving skills, and even memory – all while reducing stress.
3. Social Connection
One of the best parts of tennis is who we share the court with. Whether it’s a friendly singles or doubles match, tennis builds camaraderie, teamwork, and lifelong friendships. Being part of a club/ team means not only improving our game but also strengthening our community.
4. Longevity and Quality of Life
Perhaps the most impressive benefit: studies show tennis players live longer than those who don’t play. The Copenhagen City Heart Study stated, playing tennis added an additional 9.7 years of life expectancy compared to being sedentary. This is due to the powerful combination of physical activity, mental stimulation, and social interaction. Simply put – tennis keeps us healthier and happier for years to come.
5. A Sport for Every Age
From juniors learning the basics, to seniors staying active, tennis is truly a sport for life. You can play with larger, slower balls; shorter courts to full-court singles or doubles. Tennis scales to your
current fitness and mobility. You can play at your own pace, adjust the intensity, and still gain all the wonderful benefits. It’s never too early – or too late – to enjoy the health advantages tennis provides.
Tennis is much more than a game… it’s a path to lifelong health, vitality, and joy. Next time you pick up your racquet, remember you’re not only improving your skills, but also investing in your well-being. If you’re brand new to tennis, or haven’t played tennis in a while, at Heritage Palms we have beginnerfriendly clinics where you will learn the fundamentals, hit more tennis balls, and have fun immediately. That’s why tennis proudly holds the title of “the world’s healthiest sport!”
Boys2Men Mentors at Pottorf Elementary Prepare for 2026
LOU BOTTITTA LBOTTITTA@GMAIL.COM
Welcome to Our New Mentors!
First, we are pleased to welcome Jayson Skyberg and Dr. Dennis Jensen to the Boys2Men team! Both Jayson and Dennis bring great energy and commitment, and we’re excited to have them on board.
New
and Improved for 2026
Volunteers Lou Bottitta and Rick Larson have been hard at work on several significant changes to the program for 2026:
• A totally redesigned 4-color student guide, with a focus on role models for each Integrity trait.
• For the first time, we’ll have a Mentor Guide to help our volunteers prepare for each week.
• A parent/caregiver Boys2Men Introduction designed to encourage parent involvement.
While doing our research for these changes, Rick discovered an outstanding resource we’re exploring:
Character Counts! – A framework that helps PK–12 students and educators build strong character and positive school cultures. It’s built on the Six Pillars of Character. We have permission to use some of their graphics and have been inspired by their content.
Modern Role Models – Integrity in Action
We’re updating our integrity trait sections of the student guide with youthful and relatable role models:
• Nicholas Lowinger – Responsible | Provides new shoes to homeless kids across the USA.
• Malala Yousafzai – Respectful | Advocate for girls’ education and equality.
• Roberto Clemente – Caring | Baseball legend and humanitarian.
• Ryan Hickman – Good Citizen | Recycling advocate improving his community.
• Hannah Alper – Fair-Minded | Youth activist for justice and the environment.
• Gitanjali Rao – Trustworthy | Inventor tackling real-world problems; TIME’s 2020 Kid of the Year.
New Developments & Growing Interest
Looking ahead to 2026, exciting news: a church in downtown Fort Myers is planning to adopt a school and launch a Boys2Men program for 5th graders there. They’re following the lead of Lexington CC and HPGCC.
As always, we are happy to welcome new mentors, financial supporters, and willing volunteers.
Contact Lou Bottitta at 484-788-2160 or via email if you’d like to talk about how you can help. Videos and other info available on our YouTube channel.
Used with permission from The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University, home of CHARACTER COUNTS®
JANE BREISCH, EDITOR
Stop Before You Hire That Contractor...
Did you know there’s a resource on our HP website that lists the names of contactors and other service providers your fellow members have recommended? It’s called the Services Referral Book. Check it out before you think of hiring that contractor. There are 50+ specific categories of contractors and services listed, from (A)
Air Conditioners to (W) Window Treatments.
This reference book is maintained by the Communications Committee, and a yearly review keeps it up to date. We’ve recently updated the listings, and are in need of more referrals. So… if you’ve discovered a good floor cleaner, electrical contractor, home watch person, painter, appliance repair, or pool service, now is the time to add them to our Services Referral Book ! Just go to www. hpgcc.com>Community>Resource Center>Services Referral Book > Submit a Service Referral . There you will find a form you can complete and submit electronically… easy-peasy. Your fellow members will thank you for saving them time in searching for a service to complete their home project.
So…next time your computer crashes, your home needs a redo, an errant golf ball breaks your window, or you need a new hairdresser, look up this guide. It’s just one of many amenities HP offers its residents. Use it—you’ll like it!
HPVA Supports Spirit of ’45
JANE BREISCH, EDITOR
In 2010, the U.S. Congress unanimously agreed that a national “Spirit of ’45 Day” be observed on the second Sunday of August, coinciding with the anniversary of August 14, 1945, the day President Truman announced the end of World War II.
Eryka Aptaker began the Lee County version of the Spirit of ’45 in 2010. She again hosted a gathering of WWII Veterans, their families, and supporters, at Pelican Preserve on Sunday, August 10. These events are very special due to the age of these WWII Veterans.
Unfortunately, the soldiers, sailors, airmen, and others who threw themselves at the Axis forces and paid a huge price in lives and injuries, are quickly a vanishing breed, and are very close to being just memories.
REPRESENTING THE HPVA WERE (STANDING L-R): BOB BREISCH, DAN BARDEN, ROGER MOYER, RICH JENKINS, AND BUD JASON. SEATED (L-R): JANE BREISCH, VICKI BARDEN, BARB JENKINS, AND ELAINE JASON.
Interestingly, attending this event were 17 WWII Veterans who were 96 or older. One gentleman was 107! Different family members spoke about the service their parent or spouse experienced in WWII. All comments were sobering, but often humorous. Guns n’ Hoses Pipes n’ Drums entertained the audience with
patriotic music. The HPVA generously donated $1,500 toward the ceremony, and also sponsored a table.
Please take time to thank our current Veterans, and all active-duty military personnel who continue to serve our country.
GUNS N’ HOSES PIPES N’ DRUMS PERFORMING.
Start this Season on a Healthy Note
KAREN JENSEN, FITNESS & WELLNESS COMMITTEE CO-CHAIR KARENPISH@MSN.COM
AND DIANE HANSON, FITNESS & WELLNESS COMMITTEE CO-CHAIR DIHANSON@COMCAST.NET
The goal of the Fitness & Wellness Committee is to provide our members with opportunities to learn about improving health. Our upcoming Wellness Sessions will provide those opportunities. Here is our schedule for the first half of the season. Registration is encouraged, and will be available online one month prior to each event. All sessions take place in the Activity Center.
Also, please note the following On Spot Dermatology dates: October 21, November 19, December 15, January 15 and 30, February 9, March 3 and 25, and April 3 and 22.
The need for blood donations in our community is great! Please consider donating on one or all of the following dates: October 21, December 17, February 17, and April 14.
102 HP members came to test their luck on HP’s August 13 Bingo Night. After enjoying a delicious buffet, players had several delectable dessert choices. Then the games began! $1,360 was in the pot to be shared over ten games. There were 9 lucky winners, with Joan Jannelle and Linda Barnas winning two bingos! Jane and Bob Breisch called the lucky numbers that evening.
HP Bingo Night Results
THE LUCKY BINGO WINNERS
(L-R): KRISTIN CALCARA, BRANDI MITCHELL, JACKIE ANDERSON, SCOTT OSLER, JOAN JANNELLE, JEANIE ANDREW-BRENNAN, ROSE BAUER, LINDA BARNAS, AND JOYCE PREISS.
Lunch Bunch Tradition Continues…
BY
K.C. GROSSE.
ONCE A MONTH DURING THE SUMMER, HP RESIDENT KITTY JEDD HAS BEEN HOSTING LUNCHEONS AT VARIOUS LOCAL RESTAURANTS FOR LADIES WHO ARE ON CAMPUS DURING THOSE MONTHS. ON TUESDAY, AUGUST 12, 42 LADIES JOINED THE “LUNCH BUNCH” GATHERING AT THE CANTINA LAREDO IN FORT MYERS. THERE WAS DELICIOUS FOOD AND TONS OF CAMARADERIE!
PHOTOS
Annette’s Book Nook Resupplied… Again
JANE BREISCH, HP LIBRARY CHAIR
Our HP Library has collected some 7,000 older books and puzzles for Annette’s Book Nook on Fort Myers Beach since Ian ravished the store three years ago. These donations enabled Annette to re-open her used book store in October, 2024. A number of HP members helped in that effort, as well as in delivering books to her location. Terry Houle has made a number of trips, and an HP library volunteer, Joan Collins, just delivered another car load in August. These donations are made possible by our many members who continually bring their gently used books to our library for all members to enjoy. Many thanks!
ANNETTE AT HER GRAND REOPENING ON OCTOBER 19, 2024.
HP MEMBERS (L-R) CAROL CROSS ANELLO, BECKY MAJORS, AND LAURA O’FLYNN HELPED ANNETTE GET HER STORE READY FOR REOPENING.
JOAN COLLINS WITH HER CAR LOAD OF BOOKS AND PUZZLES.
Empathy: A Core ingredient of Emotional Intelligence
ANDREW WEINER WEINER@UKY.EDU
As indicated in previous articles, Emotional Intelligence is comprised of understanding self and understanding others. I have spent print on the various ways to increase understanding one’s thoughts and feelings and how they drive behavior. For this article I want to focus on part 2 of EI, which involves understanding others, or social awareness. For me, one of the most significant ways we can understand others is have some level of “empathy.”
Loosely defined, empathy is the ability to sense the feelings of another person and respond to those feelings effectively. So, in essence, we have two parts comprising empathy: sensing and responding. Are there people who read the feelings of others quite well but, either don’t respond, respond negatively, or even manipulate that understanding for self-gain? Yes.
In my opinion, “sensing is a gift,” and not everyone has that ability to read others. When I was in graduate school, the counseling program had a required course called “Interpersonal Communication,” which focused on the ability of future counselors/ therapists to be able to read a client’s feelings and respond effectively. Surprisingly, some of the doctoral candidates in the class lacked empathy, and were eliminated from going further (my guess is they pursued the research or experimental tract).
If you want a more objective test rather than the opinion of experts or others, try watching a TV program without sound, record it, and guess what emotions the actors are expressing. Then play the recording back to determine accuracy. When I did an internship at a youth development center, I came in contact with some of the best readers of feelings ever but, unfortunately, the responding part was absent or detrimental.
In summary, the following represent my thoughts regarding empathy.
• As the famous leadership expert, Stephen Covey, once stated “seek first to understand and then to be understood.”
• As you converse, listen for content (words) and feelings, and don’t be surprised if the two are incongruent. Many of us try to hide our feelings behind words, so separating them, would be a good beginning for future conversation.
• In my opinion, it is very difficult to teach someone how to sense the feelings of another.
• Manufactured responses to someone’s problems without truly sensing the emotions behind them, may present as ingenuine or phony.
• It is difficult to be empathic all the time as it can be draining. Think of it as a resource to be used wisely.
A Fond Farewell for Sue
JANE BREISCH, EDITOR
Alas, all good things must often come to an end. Sue and Dennis Moody recently sold their HP residence and moved to Cypress Cove. They’ll be sorely missed by many members; however, they’re excited about what their future has to offer.
As a farewell, Jan Donaldson, Tina Wright, and Bonie Panther hosted a lovely luncheon in the Palms Dining Room on Monday, August 25. As Sue’s favorite color is purple, that color graced the table decorations, as well as a delicious cake. Attendees enjoyed a PowerPoint presentation which highlighted the many years of Sue and Denny’s life here at HP. It was a joyous occasion where fond memories were shared.
SUE MOODY STANDING NEXT TO ONE OF
L-R: PAT THORNTON, STASIA ARCARESE, CATHY WANGENSTEIN, KATHY BELL, TINA WRIGHT, SUE MOODY, JANE BREISCH, BARB BOTTITTA, JOANN O’CONNELL, AND DIANE JANSEN.
L-R: JOAN COLLINS, CAROL PAGANO, BONNIE PANTHER, CINDY WARD, SUE SAURO, SUE MOODY, JAN DONALDSON, RITA DARGAN, LYN BROWN, AND CAROL ANN WENTZELL.
Fort Myers Theatres’ 2025-26 Season Productions
JANE BREISCH, EDITOR
Here are four Fort Myers regional theatre offerings for the coming season. Contact these venues now for the best seats and pricing.
Florida Repertory Theatre, 2268 Bay Street, Fort Myers. The FL Rep is celebrating their 28th season as “one of America’s top repertory theatres” according to the Wall Street Journal. Check their website at https://www.floridarep.org for tickets for the following shows:
• The Rat Pack Lounge By James Hindman and Ray Roderick
October 3 - November 9, 2025; previews
September 30 - October 2 ArtStage Studio Theatre
This fresh and funny musical revue celebrates the music of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis, Jr. In the magical story the famous “rat pack” trio, now in heaven, returns to earth for one special night to treat audiences to over 30 hit songs.
• Doubt, a Parable By John Patrick Shanley
October 31 - November 16, 2025; previews
October 28 - 30
Historic Arcade Theatre
The fireworks begin as the exacting principal of a Bronx Catholic school—feared by students and colleagues alike—suspects improper relations between a charismatic priest and a student. She’s forced to wrestle with what’s fact, what’s fiction, and just how far she’ll go to expose what she sees as the truth.
• The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge By Mark Brown
December 5 - 21, 2025; previews December 2 - 4
Historic Arcade Theatre
This spirited twist on the classic holiday tale is set a year after Scrooge’s miraculous transformation. Now back to his old ways, Scrooge is suing Jacob Marley and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future for breaking-and-entering, kidnapping, slander, pain and suffering, attempted murder, and the intentional infliction of emotional distress.
• Advice By Brent Askari
December 12 - January 11, 2026; previews
December 9 - 11
ArtStage Studio Theatre
A hilarious new comedy follows a married
scrappy Sister from last summer’s Late Nite Catechism , tackles the meaning of love, life, and the ritual of marriage. Drawing inspiration from her own life – and the advice of the audience – The Bride tackles the decision of a lifetime: Will she, or won’t she?
Players Circle Theater, 13211 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers (only about 20 minutes from HP!).
Started by FL Repertory Theatre founders Bob Cacioppo and Carrie Lund, Players Circle is in its eighth season. Check their website at https://www.playerscircle.org for tickets for the following shows:
• Rumors A Neil Simon farce.
October 24 - November 16; previews October 21 - 23
At a posh New York townhouse, the Deputy Mayor’s self-inflicted gunshot wound and his wife’s disappearance spark chaos. As four couples arrive for an anniversary party, secrets unravel and confusion reigns. Misunderstandings multiply in this fastpaced farce filled with cover-ups, rumors, and non-stop comedic twists.
• Ho! Ho! Ho! The Christmas Show Created by Robert Cacioppo
December 5 - 21, 2025; previews December 2 - 4
A favorite holiday tradition is back and better than ever! Come celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with this original musical revue brimming with love, laughter, and all your favorite holiday songs.
• Little Women Based on Louisa May Alcott’s Classic Novel
January 9 - February 1; previews January 6 - 8
A story that swept the nation is brought to life in this epic musical! Full of showstopping melodies and uplifting spirit. This timeless tale about the enduring power of family is guaranteed to capture your heart and astonish!
• Over the Tavern By Tom Dudzick
February 13 - March 8; previews February 10 - 12
A beguiling family comedy set in Buffalo in the Eisenhower 1950s. The Pazinski family has a lot going on in their cramped apartment over Dad’s bar. But all hell breaks loose, when 12-year-old, wise-cracking Rudy questions being Catholic.
• 4,000 Miles By Amy Herzog
March 20 - April 5; previews March 17 - 19
A Pulitzer Prize Finalist! After a crosscountry bike trip, young Leo makes an unplanned visit to his feisty 91-year-old grandmother Vera in her Greenwich Village apartment. Over the course of a single
month these unlikely roommates, infuriate, bewilder, and ultimately reach each other in this charming dramedy.
• I Loved, I Lost, I Made Spaghetti By Giulia Melucci
April 17 - May 3; previews April 14 - 16 This tasty comedy invites you into Giulia’s kitchen as she recounts a string of botched romances and failed love affairs while preparing a home cooked meal.
The Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers (239) 278-4422. Check their website at https://broadwaypalm. com/. for tickets for the following shows:
• Pretty Woman, the Musical October 3 to November 15, 2025
• A Christmas Story, the Musical November 21 to December 28, 2025
• Fiddler on the Roof, the Musical January 3 to February 14, 2026
• Cats February 20 to April 4, 2026
• All Shook Up – Featuring the Songs of Elvis Presley April 10 to May 16, 2026
• The Sounds of 1967 – A Summer that Changed Everything May 22 to June 20, 2026
• The Wizard Z June 26 to August 8, 2025
Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. For further info on their 2025-26 Broadway Series go to: https://www.bbmannpah.com.
• Some Like it Hot – January 13 to 18, 2026
• & Juliet – February 3 to 8, 2026
• Back to the Future, the Musical –February 17 to 22, 2026
• Mama Mia! – March 10 to 15, 2026
• Kimberly Akimbo – April 1 to 5, 2026
• Moulin Rouge, the Musical – April 7 to 12, 2026
From The Pro Shop
BOB KELLY, DIRECTOR OF GOLF BKELLY@HPGC.COM
Hello from the Golf Shop. October is here and the season is fast approaching. Summer maintenance is scheduled to be completed shortly with a tentative opening date for both courses of Monday, October 13.
The renovation of the driving range turf is coming along nicely, and we plan to have grass ready for use sometime in midOctober. In conjunction with the range project, we have purchased new range ball crates to replace the existing ball pyramids we use. These crates hold more than twice the balls the pyramids do, and this will help us keep the range better stocked with balls. We have also purchased new club cleaners to further enhance your driving range experience.
Registration is currently open for our Men’s & Ladies’ Golf Leagues. Everyone who has an established handicap in our GHIN system, has received an email with registration links for MGA White, Gold, Silver, and Ladies’ 9 & 18-hole leagues. If you experience any issues getting registered, please contact the Golf Shop. The registration links will close at the end of October. Any new sign-ups after that should contact the Golf Shop directly.
A few event reminders for the upcoming months. Sign up is still available on Golf Genius for the 10th Annual HPVA Golf Tournament on October 26. Also, registration is still open for the 2025 Ladies’ Member Guest on November 10. Please contact the Golf Shop for more event details or to get signed up.
CONGRATULATIONS, JOHN!
Lastly, I would like to recognize John Osbrink, who is reaching the milestone of 25 years of service at Heritage Palms this month. John came to HP in the fall of 2000 just as the final nine holes of Sabal were opened for play. Over the years John has played a major role in the success of our golf leagues and the many major golf events we host. Thank you, John, for your dedication and service to the members of Heritage Palms for these past 25 years!!
The entire golf staff is excited and ready for a great season ahead. As always, please let us know how we can enhance your golf experience at the club. See you all soon!
GOLF OUTING GOLF OUTING
S
U N D A Y , O C T O B E R 2 6
Sign Up: Starting Sept. 1 on Golf Genius. Make your own 4-somes.
The day begins with registration and a continental breakfast at 7:00 AM followed by the opening ceremony at 8:30 AM, then the tart. After golf, join us for lunch and y in the Palms Dining Room.
CHOPPERDROP CHOPPERDROP
SIGN SPONSORS SIGN SPONSORS $125 per player
dropped to a flag on the driving range. Closest 4 balls to the target win big!! Cash Prizes totaling 25% of total sales.
To purchase Chopper Drop Balls: email Bill Przybylski at golfgang@sbcglobal.net or Jeff Paul at jpaul92460@gmail.com
Balls are $10 each and will be charged to your member account. When emailing please be sure to include your member number and number of balls purchased.
For more information or to join please visit: www.hpvets.org or email postmaster@hpvets.org.
MGA News
ANDY WHITE, MGA SECRETARY AGTCAWHITE@ROGERS.COM
Welcome to the new season of MGA golf. Our schedule is somewhat similar to last year’s, with some changes based on member feedback. Some new twists have been added, including Team Stableford, a new twist to Pick-A-Partner, and a change to who plays which hole for the Lone Ranger.
Based on the results of the membership survey conducted earlier this summer, we’ll have a mixture of shotgun and tee time starts.
Back by popular demand:
• Aggregate Scoring
• A 2-day MGA Tournament
• An MGA Member/Guest
• Two Pick-A-Partner tournaments
• Match play
• Three Happy Hours, and three league luncheons
Our MGA kickoff Happy Hour will be held Wednesday, November 5, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Our first league event will be held Thursday, November 6, and is a 2 Best Ball. The full schedule will be posted on the MGA website within the month.
Looking forward to another great season of golf and renewed friendships.
Anne Kim Shoots Less Than Her Age!
JANE BREISCH, EDITOR
On Tuesday, September 2, Anne Kim shot an 86, two strokes below her age! She’ll turn 89 this December. Her feat was achieved on the Sabal course from the red tees. She obviously played “lights out,” as her GHIN handicap is 28.5. She had two birdies – on holes 5 and 11 – and putted extremely well. Congratulations, Anne, on an exciting round of golf!
ANNE KIM
Do You Know the Rules?
DAVE KRAFT DKRAFT_SR@YAHOO.COM
Your ball lies partially on a red or yellow painted penalty area line and partially on the Golf Course. Is your ball in the penalty area?
Rule 2.2c Determining Area of Course Where Ball Lies
The area of the course where a player’s ball lies affects the Rules that apply in playing the ball or taking relief.
A ball is always treated as lying in only one area of the course.
If part of the ball is in two specific areas of the course, it is treated as lying in the specific area that comes first in this order: penalty area, bunker, putting green.
In the Question above your ball is in the penalty area.
Question 2
Your ball is partially on a white out of bounds area line and partially on the Golf Course. Is your ball out of bounds?
Rule 18.2a: When Ball Is Out of Bounds
A ball is out of bounds only when ALL of it is outside the boundary edge of the course.
For a ball to be out of bounds the ball needs to be completely on or completely over the white line.
In Question 2 your ball is Not completely on or over the white line so your ball is in bounds.
There is a difference between red penalty area lines and white out of bound lines.
Next month my article will be about red penalty area lines painted on the cart path.
Here is this month’s golf etiquette tip: Just a reminder. We are getting back into season and shotgun starts will be happening. On shotgun start days the balls on the driving range are for warming up. Hit 12 to 15 balls, then make the area available for other players waiting to warm-up.
Community Relations Committee News
MARYANN
PRESTON
MARYANNE@HIRING-SOLUTIONS.COM
The CRC serves the Board and all HP members by developing and enhancing our relationship with the larger Ft. Myers/Lee County Community.
Read On…
KAREN HARRIS
We have a great season planned! Mark your calendars now to save the dates for our 2025/26 events:
• November 17, 2025: Lee Health – New hospital update
• January 4, 2026: State Attorney Amira Fox – “True Crime in Lee County”
• January 12, 2026, from noon to 3 p.m.:
4th Annual Volunteer Fair – Palms Dining Room
• February 2, March 6, and April 6, 2026: TBD
HERITAGEPALMSBOOKCLUB@GMAIL.COM
The HP Book Club will meet on Friday, October 24, at 2:30 p.m. in the Activity Center to discuss The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon. This novel of historical fiction, set in 1789 Maine, is centered on midwife Martha Ballard, who is called on to examine the body of a man found frozen in the river. Her investigation uncovers a web of secrets and the possible involvement of powerful men in her small tight-knit community. One reviewer described the book as “a twisty mystery with an intriguing protagonist and rich period detail.” Chris Carlson will lead the discussion.
Club meetings are open to all residents who read the book. If you wish to be added to the HP Book Club mailing list, please email me.
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
Beautiful HP Sunsets
We have the most amazing sunsets in our community! Here are some member photos.
TAKEN BY PENNI BERRI FROM HER LANAI LOOKING OUT OVER SABAL #7 ON AUGUST 16.
TAKEN BY LOU BOTTITTA OUTSIDE OUR CLUBHOUSE ON AUGUST 23.
THESE SUNSETS WERE TAKEN BY JANE BREISCH ON AUGUST 13.
Post Cards
From Stasia Arcarese: I went on a FGCU Wet Walk organized by the Friends of the Six Mile Slough Preserve. It was in the FGCU wetlands, and led by Naturalist William Greene. In this photo we’re standing in an area called the Cypress Dome in hip-high water. Luckily, we didn’t encounter any alligators.
From Jan Donaldson: My husband, Larry, and I joined Joan and Skip Collins to celebrate our 50th wedding anniversaries at Capital Grill on August 22. Our anniversary is August 22; the Collins’ on August 23.
L-R: LARRY, JAN, SKIP, AND JOAN.
From Ken Swanson: My wife, Mary, and I visited Tom and Mary Anne Smith at their home in Madison, Wisconsin in August. This picture was taken in their back yard on the shore of Lake Monona. The small image across the lake is the Wisconsin State Capitol.
Oops!
ON SATURDAY, AUGUST 30, ONE OF OUR RECIPROCAL GUESTS MISSED A TURN AND SOMEHOW LANDED ON THE BANK NEAR THE GREEN ON #9 SABAL.
Which New England State Was Once Its Own Country?
COMPILED FROM HISTORY FACTS BY JANE BREISCH, EDITOR
Not everyone wanted to be part of the United States when the Revolutionary War broke out. Vermont, for instance, declared itself an independent republic from 1777 to 1791, due in part to ongoing disputes with neighboring New York, which claimed the land as its own. The future Green Mountain State adopted its own constitution and operated as a de facto independent country. After briefly being called New Connecticut, the region eventually settled on the name State of Vermont, but was also known as the Vermont Republic. In addition to having its own currency and postal service, Vermont also abolished slavery on July 2, 1777— the first American territory to do so. (Vermont at one point toyed with the idea
of joining the Province of Quebec in the early 1780’s before ultimately deciding against it.)
Though the Vermont Republic wasn’t officially recognized by the U.S., it was largely left to its own devices. No less an authority than George Washington advised against military action in 1783, in
part because the area was “very mountainous” and its citizens were “a hardy race, composed of that kind of people who are best calculated for soldiers.” Vermont eventually settled its differences with New York and voted to ratify the U.S. Constitution in 1791, officially joining the new nation.
HP Craft Show October 23
LYNNE THOMPSON LYNNEBOBFLA@EARTHLINK.NET
The Heritage Palms Fall/Christmas Craft Show will be held here in the Palms Dining Room on Thursday, October 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This will be on a smaller scale due to the lack of space and parking, and is only open to Heritage Palms resident vendors. Please mark your calendars and plan to stop by and see what great talents are right here in our community.
If you are interested in being a vendor, please send an email to me at lynnebobfla@earthlink. net or call me at 239-281-8747. We could really use a jewelry vendor as we do not have any at this time. If we don’t get at least ten vendors, we will need to cancel this event.
L-R: TODD WIDHOLM, CAROLE CONDON, AND ELENA & DOUG MULLER.
L-R: SAMUEL DAVIS, PEARSON TIMMONS, SCOTT DAVIS, AND JACOB DAVIS.
L-R: CHAR WINGERT, CHRIS DUTOIT, JEANNIE ANDREW-BRENNAN, & DAN MCDANIEL.
L-R: DENNIS & LINDA CALHOUN, AND CHERYL & BOB WHILES.
AND JEFF ROBERTS.
L-R: BOB & JANE BREISCH, AND BETTY & ROD RUPPEL.
L-R: KEVIN MCELROY, SANDEE CACCAVO, JEFF BEAVERS, AND JIM WESOLOSKI.
L-R: JEANINE PETSCHE, DARLENE SLOWIK, BARB DIGANGI, AND LYLA OTT.
L-R: TIM CORNETT, AJ & ANN MANN,
