Community Interests
BEING PREPARED FOR HURRICANE SEASON!
LINDA
LYNCH, HERONS GLEN
This year National Hurricane Preparedness Week runs from May 4 through May 10, but if you’ve missed it, it’s not too late to prepare for the upcoming Florida hurricane season. The official season runs from June 1 through November 30.
But what does being prepared actually mean? Well, reading through this entire article is a step in the right direction as you start getting ready for whatever powerful summer weather comes our way.
DETAILED PLANNING
One reliable source of detailed information that you can access at the HOA website is the Herons Glen Emergency Preparedness Plan issued by the Security, Safety, and Emergency Preparedness (SSEP) Committee. Here is the direct link: https://hggcc. com/hghoa/pdfs/ssep/emergency_plan.pdf.
This HG Plan incorporates information from Lee County (also available at their website,
http:/leegov.com/hurricane ). Additional information is also available through the State of Florida in conjunction with the National Weather Service at their website, http://weather.gov/ safety/hurricane-plan .
Regardless of what information you consult and your degree of pre-planning, it is necessary to realize that being prepared will take time and energy on your part and really must be done BEFORE a hurricane strikes so you already know what you need to know and do.
SEASONAL RESIDENTS
Prior to the arrival of a storm, it is the responsibility of all residents of Herons Glen to prepare and secure their own property. If you are a winter season resident, your house and yard need to be prepared for the possibility of a storm or hurricane before you leave. This includes assuring your yard and porches are free of any loose objects, such as grills and pottery, which could be blown about by high winds. Securing your windows with storm shutters before you depart is also highly recommended.
YEAR-ROUND RESIDENTS
For year-round/summer residents of Herons Glen, there are a few more steps in your hurricane preparation:
• Be sure to have a full tank of gas in your car.
• Put aside a gallon of drinking water per person per day of need.
• Assemble a first aid kit.
• Check to assure you have needed prescription drugs and any special medical equipment.
• Have a battery-operated radio and a flashlight available, both with spare batteries.
• Fully charge your cell phone and consider an additional battery pack or power bank.
• Provision canned and nonperishable food and drink items.
• Gather eating utensils, a manual can opener, sanitary care items (toilet paper, etc.), mosquito repellent, plastic bags and containers, and bleach.
• Compile copies of your homeowner’s insurance policies, other important papers (wills, checkbook, tax information, credit cards, etc.), and proof of residency (driver’s license with Herons Glen address, tax receipt, utility bills).
• Consider keeping some cash on hand.
PET OWNERS
If you have a pet, securely fasten up-todate identification on the pet’s collar, carry a photo for identification purposes, have a pet carrier (or leash or harness) to secure the pet if needed, pack food and water, and gather immunization records and medications. The HG SSEP Plan provides additional tips related to pets. In the event of a mandatory evacuation, Lee County will designate a cat- and dog-friendly evacuation center.
EVACUATION ORDERS
It is each individual’s responsibility to comply with voluntary or mandatory evacuation orders. Evacuation decisions are made by the local government based on the severity and characteristics of a storm. Notification is provided through numerous TV and radio stations.
Herons Glen lies in Lee County Evacuation Zone D. It is a good idea
to think through an evacuation route in advance, but you’ll need to consider the most current local information before heading out.
If you evacuate, be sure to let family or friends know where you are headed, as well as the HOA or HGRD or Security.
Information about when it is safe to return to Herons Glen will be provided via TV and radio.
HOA COMMUNICATIONS
The Herons Glen HOA will also notify residents by email news bulletins, text messaging, community channel, and the official HOA Bulletin Board.
LOCAL SHELTERS
For those unable to leave the area, Lee County provides shelter, at the North Fort Myers Academy of the Arts (1856 Arts Way) and the North Fort Myers Recreation Center (2000 N. Recreation Park Way off of Business 41, near the library).
While you can’t prevent a hurricane, you can avert or mitigate many of the problems that result from one. As Herons Glen residents who have sheltered through past hurricanes already know, being prepared, helping each other, and sharing information are the best ways to maximize everyone’s safety.
ALPHA DELTA MU’S BUSY END OF SEASON
CANDACE HUETTEMAN, HERONS GLEN
Alpha Delta Mu (ADM) had a full calendar this season: March 19, Annual Pool Party; April 2 volunteering at All Souls Outreach Program; April 3, Sound Bath experience; April 5 and 6 Annual Downsizing Sale to benefit veterans; and April 14 ADM delivered Easter cards to Windsor Court senior facility. And, of course, the sorority’s charity work continued throughout the year.
SOUND BATH WITH RUTH POSTER, CHERI BRANDT AND CLARA REDA
JOY VENKER, CHERI BRANDT, JOAN DARCY, CANDACE HUETTEMAN, CATHY BARBAL, RUTH POSTER, AND ELAINE QUILLIAM AT ALL SOULS
CHERI BRANDT, TERRY ROSEN AND CANDACE HUETTEMAN WITH RESIDENT AT WINDSOR COURT
99 AND COUNTING!
LINDA LYNCH, HERONS GLEN
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2024 there were about 101,000 centenarians – individuals who are age 100 or older. Well, in 2025 there will be at least one more, and she lives right here in Herons Glen!
On June 30, Dorothy “June” Clarke of Valparaiso Boulevard will celebrate her 100th birthday.
June was born in 1925 and had two sisters and a brother. Her mother died when she was only 3 years old. Initially she and her siblings were raised by her father and her grandmother, but June lived with a variety of other relatives over the years. Because of the Great Depression, her father was often unemployed and looking for work, not always in the Baltimore area.
At age 16, June opted not to finish school but to go to work instead at a Baltimore shoe factory. Thereafter, she held many positions in many companies and, despite her lack of education, was a very quick learner.
As she stated, if she could get a nickel more, she’d move to another organization. As a tiny sample, she worked at Lever Brothers, General Electric, Western Electric, and Two
Guys (discount chain). She ended her multifaceted career working as a nanny and housekeeper in the Annapolis area.
It was while working at General Electric that she met her future husband, Stan (Phillip Stanley) Clarke. With the advent of World War II, Stan flew with the Army Air Force. One of his key roles was bombing the oil fields in Romania. At the time, Romania was Hitler’s major source of oil since he had failed to conquer the Russian fields. Stan’s role in the war was critical and extremely dangerous but he made it back to June.
in 2009, Sharon persuaded her mom to move from Maryland. Sadly, Sharon passed away in 2018.
Meanwhile, during the war, June held various factory and other jobs and was one of the many Rosie the Riveter females who supported the war effort at home.
In 1948 June and Stan were married and had a daughter, Sharon. June and Sharon were very close, and June considered her daughter as her best friend. They thoroughly enjoyed traveling and hanging out together.
Sharon eventually married Dale Gisselman and at retirement they bought a home on Mykonos Court in Herons Glen. When June’s husband Stan passed away
June has made numerous friends here in the Glen and fortunately has a loving son-in-law nearby to keep an eye on her and help her as needed. For the most part, however, June is still fairly independent and able to take care of herself other than having given up her license and car.
For June’s upcoming birthday, Dale has planned a party for close friends and family to celebrate the occasion. Happy 100th June!
JUNE, HER DAUGHTER SHARON, AND GRANDDAUGHTER KELLY
STAN AND JUNE CLARKE
ALPHA DELTA MU’S ANNUAL BIRTHDAY PARTY
CANDACE HUETTEMAN, HERONS GLEN
Alpha Delta Mu’s Annual Birthday Party was hosted by sorority president, Candace Huetteman. There was no shortage of good food to eat since each sister brought her favorite appetizer in hopes of being chosen the best of the year. Elaine Quillian took home the honors. After the purse exchange, every sister had a new purse to take home.
NEW MEMBERS: KAREN KATZ AND CATHY BARBAL
FIRST
ROW: JOY VENKER, CANDACE HUETTEMAN; SECOND ROW: ELAINE QUILLIAM, TRISH CHESNOV, CHERI BRANDT, TERRY ROSEN, AND VICKI REID
OLD GLORY
LINDA LYNCH, HERONS GLEN
Way back in 1916 President Woodrow Wilson established June 14 as Flag Day. Then, in 1949, an Act of Congress proclaimed June 14 as National Flag Day, making it an official national holiday to commemorate the adoption of the flag of the United States on June 14, 1777, by resolution of the Second Continental Congress.
The 1777 resolution did not set the size or proportions of the flag, or even what shape the constellation of stars should be. As a result, flags of the era showed the constellation of stars in different arrangements, and flags were made with differing proportions. It was not until 1912 that the flag’s design was standardized.
In fact, until 1818, a new stripe was also added for each new state. The famous Star-Spangled Banner that inspired our national anthem after the battle of Fort McHenry in Baltimore Harbor had 15 stars and 15 stripes.
Like the original U.S. flag, there are now 13 stripes on the flag, beginning with red on top and alternating red and white. The upper left rectangular shaped blue section contains the stars, one for each of the 50 states but originally one for each of the 13 original colonies. New state stars are added on the Fourth of July following the new state’s admission to the Union. The most recent star was added in 1960 for the state of Hawaii.
According to the Smithsonian Institute, the flag got its nickname “Old Glory” from William Driver, a Massachusettsborn resident of Nashville, Tenn. Driver’s flag was originally given to him as a present on his birthday when he was made captain of a merchant ship. The flag was hoisted above his ship and, as it opened to the ocean breeze for the first time, Driver hailed it as “Old Glory!” This
flag accompanied him on many seafaring voyages around the world. In 1836, he gave up seafaring and moved to inland Nashville where he proudly displayed his flag from a locust tree. He even updated the flag in 1861 to reflect 34 stars and added an anchor in the corner to indicate his sea service.
When Tennessee seceded from the Union, Driver remained faithful to the Union and had his daughter conceal his flag inside a quilt, which was overlooked in numerous raids on his house. Driver’s flag remained in the quilt until February 25, 1862, when Ulysses S. Grant captured Fort Donelson and occupied Nashville. On that day Driver uncovered the flag, marched through the streets to the capitol building, climbed to its dome, and hoisted “Old Glory,” as Driver continued to call the flag, for all to see.
As news of what had happened in Nashville spread, the term “Old Glory” became popular, and it is still today a commonly used nickname for the U.S. flag.
NEED HELP WRITING YOUR ARTICLE?
If you would like staff from The Heron to assist you with an article about your activity or event, we are happy to help. Just let us know in advance if you want us to write an article, help you write it, take photos, or whatever you’d like. We will do our best to accommodate your needs. You can drop off your request at the HOA Office, 2250 Herons Glen Boulevard, or email us at hgnewspaper@gmail.com .
HOA IMPORTANT NOTICE
FROM THE HERONS GLEN HOA BOARD
The Herons Glen HOA Board wishes to express their appreciation and thanks to all the volunteers and to the many that were able to attend the Volunteer Appreciation Event.
Volunteer Appreciation Event Presentation
We hope you will consider volunteering again! Volunteers are an important part of the success of the community. All committee member terms are for one year, beginning October 1 and ending on September 30. Full-time and part-time residents can volunteer. Each year the HOA Board appoints committee members at their September Board Meeting. New terms for HOA volunteers begin on October 1, 2025.
If you are interested in serving on an HOA Committee, please complete a volunteer form.
Click> HOA Committees
Click> Online Volunteer Form
Download> Volunteer Form
THE MAGIC OF JIMMY WILSON
JACK NELSON, HERONS GLEN
The Serengeti ecosystem is a geographical region in Africa, spanning the Mara and Arusha Regions of Tanzania. The protected area within the region includes 11,583 square miles of land, including the Serengeti National Park and several game reserves. There are nearly 90 species of mammals living in the park, which borders Kenya to the North.
Riding in a Land Cruiser on a safari in the Serengeti were six nature lovers, plus driver Abu Lapsuga. One of the passengers sported a topof-the-line digital camera slung around his neck. It was Jimmy Wilson, a nature lover and prizewinning photographer.
Shortly after 30 minutes into the tour, the group encountered a herd of elephants grazing not more than a hundred feet away. Driver Abu stopped for photo ops for his tourists. Noticing the group was a male elephant, with tusks that seemed to reach the sky. The gargantuan beast was angered by the intrusion of humans and suddenly charged the Cruiser at full gallop.
Without hesitating, Jimmy jumped out of the Cruiser and started walking calmly toward the charging pachyderm with outstretched arms. The huge beast was startled by this gesture, as were Abu and the other tourists. Just a few feet away from Jimmy, the elephant came to a sudden halt, creating a cloud of dust that nearly covered Jimmy from head to toe. Then, with a gesture of friendship, the elephant wrapped its trunk around Jimmy and pulled him close.
Everyone was flabbergasted. When the tourists came back to reality, cameras were clicking away at a dizzying pace, capturing the event of a lifetime. Abu was upset with Jimmy’s recklessness, breaking a safety rule of touring, but remained silent because of the incredible outcome. The other tourists praised Jimmy for averting what was destined to become a disastrous event.
Onward they journeyed, looking for more wildlife. It didn’t take long to spot a pride of lions, 17 of them, prancing along the shoulder, looking for a shadowy spot to take their afternoon nap. There was a mixture of males, females, and four cubs sticking close to their moms.
Abu pulled alongside the felines for more photo ops for his tourists. Jimmy sat in a left seat, which was right next to the pride. Cameras were busy again. Suddenly, without any warning, a male lion, with a beautiful thick black mane, reached in to grab one of the tourists. Abu quickly reached for his rifle,
but it wasn’t necessary. Jimmy reached out to take hold of the lion’s paw.
Then everything came to a halt, the Cruiser and the lions. Jimmy jumped out and started stroking the cat’s beautiful mane. In return, the cat rose up on its hind legs and wrapped its paws around Jimmy’s neck, hugging him tightly. It was love at first sight. The cubs, in a show of affection, pranced around Jimmy’s feet. By now the tourists were ready for another spectacle, and they were photographing another amazing episode.
When the tourists returned to the home base, Abu and the tourists thanked Jimmy for his bravery. They all agreed to meet again next year for another safari, and Abu would be their guide. It would become an annual event, and the group would be looking for more of Jimmy Wilson’s magic.
TRIVIA CORNER
1. What is the next number in this sequence? 2, 5, 9, 14? ___
2. Which city is closer to the equator, Miami or Honolulu?
3. How many movies did Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall make together?
4. What is triskaidekaphobia?
5. Whom did Franklin Roosevelt defeat in the 1940 presidential election?
JACK NELSON, HERONS GLEN
IT’S FIVE O’CLOCK SOMEWHERE
WINE TRIVIA 101, PART 5
CANDACE HUETTEMAN, HERONS GLEN
As promised in Part 4 of Wine Trivia 101, this article will try to solve the mystery behind “tannins.” This is a word I’ve heard associated with red wines since my first sip of Cabernet Sauvignon. Tannins, by definition, are natural compounds that give red wines their structure, texture, and astringency; they also contribute to color stabilization and mouthfeel. Tannins typically can cause a puckering or drying sensation in the mouth. Tannins come from five main sources: grape seeds, skins, stems, oaks and additives such as tannin powder. The oak barrels used can also contribute tannins during the first few years of aging.
I’m sure you have more questions about tannins. Are they good for you? Yes, wine tannins contain antioxidants that protect cells from damage and may have antimicrobial and antiviral properties. However, they can also interfere with nutrient absorption which can potentially hinder the body’s ability to absorb iron. Also, some people complain that they get headaches, upset stomachs or migraines from drinking red wine. So, be careful when considering red wine as a significant health additive. Some doctors, however, will agree that a glass of red wine on occasion can be good for you.
Tannins help wines age well. Therefore, more expensive wines tend to have more tannins. The quality and taste of red wines improve significantly with age, so the tannins will be less bitter in older wines.
The primary role of tannin, as it is found in nature, is to keep animals from eating unripe fruits which tannin makes taste bitter. Just as you would avoid eating bitter fruit, I hope that you don’t think that I’m suggesting that you avoid red wine because it has tannins. Remember, in Part 4 of Wine Trivia 101, we learned how red wines can be full-bodied with rich fruity taste and a thick, viscous mouthfeel. Plus, they taste good and go well with meat and pasta.
Final trivia facts: If I don’t drink red wine, where else would I find tannins? They are in tea leaves, walnuts, almonds, and other whole nuts (with skins), dark chocolate, cinnamon, clove, and other whole spices, pomegranates, grapes and açaí berries. So, whether you get your tannins from wine, nuts, fruits or spices, enjoy!
Until the next issue of The Heron, “Pozdrawiam,” that’s cheers in Polish.
HINTS FOR WRITING AN ARTICLE FOR THE ONLINE MAGAZINE
LINDA LYNCH, HERONS GLEN
You may be assigned the writing of an article for the Herons Glen online magazine about your organization’s event or activity, and you aren’t sure where to start. This article will give beginners, as well as more seasoned writers, some helpful tips.
First you need to gather notes with the who, what, when, where, why, and how of the topic. If you are able to obtain some quotes from organizers or participants about the topic, that can add interest to your article. Once you have assembled all the information:
• Write an opening (lead) sentence for the article designed to grab the reader’s attention. This sentence should provide a preview or teaser for the article, covering the basic facts without lots of elaboration.
• Add sentences/paragraphs with details about your story. Proceeding in chronological order is often the best approach. Elaborating on the who, what, when, where, why, and how will give the reader a clear picture of all aspects of your story.
• Insert several quotes to summarize or emphasize key points of your story.
• Write a closing sentence or paragraph that wraps everything up and/or provides instructions on how to obtain additional information (contact name, phone and/or email, Internet link, etc.). Sometimes a quote can be helpful in the closing.
• Create an informative and engaging headline. Where possible, relate to some key item in the article.
It might be helpful to know that some writers don’t start at the beginning and proceed through these steps as outlined above. Sometimes you can’t figure out how to start, so you can begin in the middle with the details about the story. That often helps you figure out what the opening should be and how to wrap the article up. In some instances, you can write the closing first and work backwards. Different topics and your own mindset may lend themselves to different approaches. Just keep in mind that when you’re done, you should have covered all the items listed above.
After you’ve written your first draft, go back and read it carefully to correct any grammar, spelling, or punctuation
errors. Check your article for specific and clear language and avoid using the same words too many times. Be sure you haven’t included any inappropriate biases. Try reading your article aloud to yourself as this can help you identify parts that are unclear or have excessive words or convoluted logic in your sentence structure. You can also ask a friend to review your copy before finalizing and submitting the article.
Some writers like to consult style manuals while writing. Popular ones include The Careful Writer by Theodore Bernstein, The Elements of Style by Strunk & White, Dreyer’s English by Benjamin Dreyer, The Chicago Manual of Style, and The New York Public Library Writer’s Guide to Style & Usage.
Once you’ve submitted your article, don’t be offended if the editor makes revisions or changes. You’re focusing only on your article, while the editor is looking at the newspaper issue in its entirety regarding content, article length, and point of view.
No matter what, don’t let writing intimidate you. Just jump in and get started somewhere. With more experience, the process gets easier and more enjoyable. In fact, as you become a more experienced writer, your articles may deviate from the formula and display more creativity and more of your individual writing personality.
BABY CRANES HAVE ARRIVED
HEIDI PRICE
BARB CALLAGHAN
D ENISE JOHNSON UNKNOWN
Community Activities
THE HERONS GLEN CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT SCORES BIG!
STEVE CHRISTIANSEN, HERONS GLEN
On Sunday, April 27, Herons Glen was buzzing with excitement during the much anticipated Cornhole Tournament. With 114 players competing, it was a full day of friendly rivalry and community fun.
The event wasn’t just about tossing beanbags. The Nest restaurant kept participants and spectators fueled with juicy burgers, hot dogs, and drink specials, while “Scoops on First” offered refreshing sweet treats that were a hit with all ages.
Congratulations To Our Champions!
• First Place: Mike Fell and Terri Maley
• Second Place: Brian Mills and Chantal Garrard
• Third Place: Don Offutt and Pam Johnson
• Consolation Champions: Tom Spenceley and Peggy Lindquist
Looking Ahead: Open Play
Residents had the opportunity to sign up for open play sessions, promising even more fun to come. Stay tuned for more details in upcoming announcements.
Big Thanks To Our Committee, Sponsors And Tourney Helpers
A huge shoutout to the Herons Glen Cornhole Committee for organizing this event as well as the numerous volunteers
REGISTRATION TABLE: DENISE FELL, SHELLY CHRISTIANSEN AND SHERRI LONG
(e.g., court monitors, setup and teardown individuals and our sound man Tom Foster) who gave their time and special skills to ensure this tournament ran flawlessly and resulted in being such a huge success.
A special thank-you also goes to Denise Fell and Shelly Christiansen who spent countless hours in the coordination of this Cornhole Tournament as well as the following individuals who used their carpentry skills to craft eight sets of identical cornhole boards.
• Ron Decker
• Mike Fell
• Bruce and Mary Kelley
• Tom and Sally Fleshman
We are thrilled to report that due to the GENEROUS donations from residents $5,100 was raised which is the amount needed to buy the required cornhole equipment (e.g., cornhole boards, bags and Astroturf for protecting the
shuffleboard play surface) for future play on the shuffleboard courts.
Cornhole would not have been possible if there wasn’t the support of the Herons Glen Recreation District Board of Directors and the residents who have shown support in
SECOND PLACE: BRIAN MILLS AND CHANTAL
so many ways (participation in the tournament, cheering for those in the tournament, positive words to the members of the Cornhole Committee, etc.) to make cornhole a sanctioned activity in Herons Glen. Thanks again!
See you on the courts this fall!
3rd Place
THIRD PLACE: DON OFFUTT AND PAM JOHNSON
CONSOLATION CHAMPIONS: TOM SPENCELEY AND PEGGY LINDQUIST
FIRST PLACE: MIKE FELL AND TERRI MALEY
MIKE FELL, RON DECKER, TOM FLESHMAN, MARY KELLEY, SALLY FLESHMAN AND BRUCE KELLEY
GARRARD
TANGLED ROOTS POTTING BAR
DENISE FELL, HERONS GLEN
On Saturday, May 10, Herons Glen residents participated in the Tangled Roots Potting Bar, creating personalized potted plants. The event sponsored by the HOA Activities Committee united neighbors through laughter, conversation, and a shared love of gardening. With materials and expert guidance provided by Michelle from Tangled Roots, even first-time gardeners succeeded. It was a blooming success, fostering community spirit one pot at a time.
TRIVIA CORNER
Trivia Answers
1. 20
2. Honolulu
3. 5
4. Fear of the number 13
5. Wendell Wilkie
HG SINGLES PLAN SUMMER ACTIVITIES
PAM SCHEID, HERONS GLEN
The Herons Glen Singles Club kicked off its summer agenda with new leaders, Dawn Sullivan and Ginny Varney, two highly active members in the club, who are credited with improving communications and arranging fun outings and events. The new leaders thanked the previous leaders Betsy Willigan, Louise Roessler, and Marla Pierce for their contributions to the growth and popularity of the HG Singles.
The other important item on the agenda was the announcement of upcoming events and opportunities. Among the offerings were an evening at the Visani Comedy Club and Singo Bingo in Port Charlotte, and the summertime third Friday Music Walk in downtown Fort Myers. A table for Singles will be reserved for club events, and a Tuesday evening outdoor Game Night was also suggested.
The summer season activities began early on April 28 when 15 Singles gathered at the Island Breeze miniature golf course. The event was capped off with dinner at Carrabba’s Italian Restaurant.
Herons Glen Singles meets in Activities Room A on the second Wednesday at 4 p.m. during the summer and at 4:30 p.m. during the “season.” The club welcomes all residents who are single.
KAREN KATZ, GINNY VARNEY, MARY MARTIN, AND DAVE GOERS
BARBARA BENKE, CAROL BRYAN, CHRIS NABERHAUS, AND APRIL MCGARVEY
