The HOA Communications Committee serves as the supervisory body for The Heron per Article IX of our by-laws.
Christine Kozak is the committee liasion from the HOA Board of Directors.
The Heron Editorial Policy is on file in the HOA office. Articles for The Heron may be dropped off or mailed to The HOA Office, 2250 Herons Glen Blvd., N. Fort Myers, FL 33917 or emailed to hgnewspaper@gmail.com.
Dick Muller
Becky Gignac Magazine Coordinator
Linda Lynch Editor
Pam Scheid Editor
Jack Nelson Editor
Sue McCoy Editor
Denise Johnson Editor
COMING SOON
Community News
3/12 Singles Activity Room A
3/12 VOG Activity Room A
3/12 Travel Club Ballroom
3/13 Farmers’ Market Parking Lot
3/13 Butterfly Activity room A
3/13 Jay Smith Restaurant
3/14 Players Of The Glen Ballroom
3/15 Players Of The Glen Ballroom
3/16 Players Of the Glen Ballroom
3/17 St Patrick’s Day Restaurant
3/18 Socialites Ballroom
3/18 Technology Class Card Room C
3/19 PIP Luncheon Ballroom
3/20 Farmers’ Market Parking Lot
3/20 Kat Orlando Duo Restaurant
3/21 Wine Dinner Formal Dining Room
3/22 Chorus Show Ballroom
3/22 Bocce Tournament Courts
3/23 HG Chorus Show Ballroom
3/27 Farmers’ Market Parking Lot
3/27 Bandstand Band Restaurant
3/28 Luau Poolside
3/29 Bocce Banquet Ballroom
3/30 Marbles Ballroom
3/30 Ice Cream Truck Parking Lot
4/03 Dazzling Delrays Ballroom
4/04 Dermatology Mobile Parking Lot
4/04 HG Musicians Ballroom
4/10 Kat Orlando Duo Restaurant
4/12 Double Dare Ballroom (end of season)
4/17 Sunsets Duo Restaurant
4/24 Tina Solomon Restaurant
EVENTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
HOW TO KEEP UP WITH THE HERON MAGAZINE
If you miss the monthly email link to The Heron online magazine that is sent out by the Herons Glen HOA, you can access the magazine directly online.
Simply go to https://hggcc.com/ Wordpress/index.php/hoa/ . From the top menus, click Communications Scroll to the bottom and click The Heron (this will bring you to the current issue)
To view older issues, once you are in the current issue, from the top menus, click Prior Issues; there will be 16 back issues available.
This is how you can keep up with what’s going on in the community whether you are here in Herons Glen or elsewhere.
Community News
HOA AND HGRD SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS
The following is a listing of HOA and HGRD meetings known at the time of publication.
Calendar Of HOA Meetings February 25 To April
As these dates are subject to change, please check the HOA website calendar and the community channel (Bluestream Channel 901) for updates.
All committee meetings are via Zoom/Card Room D unless noted otherwise.
2/25 Architectural Review Committee, 9 a.m.
2/28 SSEP Committee, 8:30 a.m.
2/28 Finance Committee, 1 p.m.
3/4 Board Workshop, 1 p.m.
3/11 Architectural Review Committee, 9 a.m.
3/12 Communications Committee, 1 p.m.
3/12 Board Meeting, 5 p.m.
3/13 Grounds Committee, 1 p.m.
3/20 Activities Committee, 10 a.m.
3/25 Architectural Review Committee, 9 a.m.
3/27 Finance Committee, 1 p.m.
3/28 SSEP Committee, 8:30 a.m.
4/1 Board Workshop, 1 p.m.
4/8 Architectural Review Committee, 9 a.m.
4/9 Board Meeting, 1 p.m.
4/10 Grounds Committee, 1 p.m.
4/16 Architectural Review Committee, 9 a.m.
4/17 Activities Committee, 10 a.m.
4/22 Architectural Review Committee, 9 a.m.
4/24 Finance Committee, 1 p.m.
4/25 SSEP Committee, 8:30 a.m.
Calendar Of HGRD Meetings February 25 To April
As these dates are subject to change, please check the HGRD website calendar and the community channel (Bluestream Channel 902) for updates.
All Committee meetings are via Zoom/Card Room C unless noted otherwise.
2/24 Facilities & Amenities Committee, 9 a.m.
3/3 Resident Events Committee, 1 p.m., Activities Room A
3/3 Board Meeting, 9 a.m.
3/6 Meet The Candidates, 4 p.m., Ballroom
3/10 Finance Committee, 9 a.m.
3/10 Long-Range Planning Committee, 1 p.m.
3/17 Board Meeting, 9 a.m.
3/24 Golf Committee, 9 a.m.
3/31 Facilities & Amenities Committee, 9 a.m.
4/7 Golf Committee, 9 a.m.
4/7 Resident Events Committee, 1 p.m.
4/14 Finance Committee, 9 a.m.
4/18 Facilities & Amenities Committee, 9 a.m.
4/21 Long-Range Planning Committee, 1 p.m.
4/28 Joint Board Meeting with Finance Committee, 9 a.m.
THANK YOU KAREN JESSOP!
After 15 years of volunteer service on The Heron newspaper/magazine staff, Karen Jessop has submitted her resignation. Her extensive knowledge helped us month after month in publishing our community news. Suffice it to say, she will be greatly missed and hard to replace.
Karen, thank you so much for all the hours you put into The Heron. Now take some time for yourself!
THE HERON MAGAZINE EDITORIAL STAFF
Production Directors
Stephen Miller
Elizabeth Miller
Sales Department
Margo Williams
Miranda Ledbeter
Alyssa Debban
Corey Bank
Justein Matthias
Webmaster
Selina Koehler
Production Manager
Lee Nostrant
Production Department
Elaine Donholt
Ruth Nekoranec
Katie Heystek
Dianne Strout
Karen Kalisz
Michelle Feeney
Andie Reynolds
www.seabreezecommunications.com
Seabreeze
The
Community News
PRESIDENT’S REPORT – FEBRUARY 2025
MARY WRIGHT, HOA PRESIDENT, HERONS GLEN
The HOA SSEP Committee held their annual Firewise event on Monday, February 10. It was a huge success. Thanks to all the committee members for their hard work organizing this year’s event.
The HOA Board reminds everyone to submit the name and contact information of a friend or relative of yours who can be contacted in case of an emergency. Please send this to the HOA Office. This is something most of us don’t think about but if something should happen to you the Sheriff’s Office contacts the HOA for that information.
Remember to register your golf cart with the HOA Office. Fill out the form with proof of insurance and receive a sticker for the windshield of your cart. Liability insurance on your golf cart is protection for you.
Timothy McKenna
Daniel and Cathryn Patton
NEED TRANSPORTATION?
The Veterans of the Glen Outreach Committee and Friends Helping Friends Transportation Committee have joined in a partnership to help Herons Glen residents who need transportation to medical appointments, prescription pickup, food shopping or other urgent need. Please do not call for rides to and from the airport.
Residents may contact the following individuals during the period of January 1, 2025, through May 31, 2025. A 24-hour advance notice would be very helpful.
We are always looking for volunteers. If interested, please contact Jack Cotter.
Community Interests
THE PLAY – A LITTLE MURDER NEVER HURT ANYBODY
JANICE RADCLIFF, HERONS GLEN
Get ready for an evening of laughs with Ron Bernas’ A Little Murder Never Hurt Anybody! With its delightful twists, clever wordplay, and outrageous situations, this play is sure to keep the Herons Glen community entertained from start to finish. Trish Perry’s keen eye for comedy and flair for direction brings this production to life. Each member of our talented cast has poured their heart into creating unforgettable
characters, and our dedicated crew has been working behind the scenes to ensure the perfect setting for all the fun and chaos to unfold.
Performances
Friday, March 14 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, March 15 at 7 p.m.
Sunday, March 16 at 4 p.m.
Don’t miss the opening night gala Friday 5:30 to 6:45 p.m., where you can enjoy a stylish mix of dressy attire, delicious hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar (six tickets maximum).
Gala Tickets, $20 Reserved Seating, $15
Ticket Sales Dates And Locations
Main Lobby
Tuesdays 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 11
Wednesdays 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 12
Thursdays 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 13
Prior To Bingo 5 to 6 p.m.
March 11 – Ballroom Lobby
Tickets at the door an hour prior to performance as available
For any ticket-related questions, please contact Shirley Evans, Ticket Chairperson, at (289) 380-2310.
We can’t wait to see you there!
A RARE BUTTERFLY GARDEN VISITOR
LINDA LYNCH, HERONS GLEN
GARY TIELENS, HERONS GLEN
You can never be sure which types of butterflies or moths might be in the Herons Glen Butterfly Garden when you visit. There might be a Monarch. There could be a Zebra Heliconian (Marpesia petreus), which is the State Butterfly of Florida. Or one of many other colorful air travelers.
You might also see an alligator on the bank close by. Sometimes there are rabbits, or squirrels. And of course, a heron now and then in the trees or by the lake.
In January, Gary Tielens of Barnstable Court was witness to an entirely different visitor. One afternoon, around 1 p.m., Gary was in his golf cart on the multi-use path near the exit from the 18th hole when he spotted a bobcat walking through the undergrowth.
He also noticed that it seemed to have a slightly injured right front paw, creating a bit of a limp. Gary and the bobcat saw each other, but Gary moved slowly so as not to startle the creature. And then this guy/ gal seemed to pose for Gary to get a good photo with his cellphone!
Yes, our Herons Glen Butterfly Garden is full of surprises. Be sure to stop by and enjoy this delightful wonderland.
REMEMBERING A LOVED ONE IN HERONS GLEN
LINDA LYNCH, HERONS GLEN
The Herons Glen HOA has established a lovely memorial park to provide members with a place for remembrance of a loved one who has lived here. The park is located on the corner of Herons
Glen Boulevard and Palo Duro Boulevard, near the entrance to our community. If you have not noticed this area, I suggest you stop by and check it out.
Pavers are available for engraving with a former Herons Glen resident’s name. Pavers are installed in groups of ten, so when ten have been requested, those ten will be installed around the memorial in locations best suited for the design of the park.
The engravings are limited to one 6” x 9” paver and may not be combined with other pavers to create a larger memorial. The engraving is limited to the space within the paver surface. Anything representing a commercial advertisement will not be allowed. The cost of an engraved memorial paver is $135.
Care and maintenance of the pavers is provided by the HGHOA. Any pavers that are damaged or broken will be removed and replaced with a nonengraved paver. If contact information is on file with the HOA, the original purchaser will be notified of the removal and offered the opportunity to purchase a new engraving.
If you are interested in honoring a former resident of Herons Glen with a paver, you can fill out an application and submit it to the HOA. Details about the Memorial Park and applications are available online at https://hggcc.com/hghoa/pdfs/policies/ memorial.pdf or you can inquire at the HOA Office.
11TH ANNUAL FIREWISE COMMUNITY DAY
KAREN WILLS, HERONS GLEN
On Monday, February 10, the SSEP (SAFETY) Committee hosted the Annual Firewise Community Day Event. This yearly event is a fundraiser for the Local 1826 Leroy Nottingham Firefighter Paramedic Benevolent Foundation. This charitable organization tends to the needs of our local firefighters, paramedics and EMT’s in their time of need.
The Morgan Stanley Peace River Team sponsored the wonderful lunch meal prepared by Leroy’s Southern Cooking of Punta Gorda. Waste Connections was the sponsor for the grilled items and drinks along with a donation of $5,000.
RON DECKER; JO MOYER; CHET BARTKOWSKI; KAREN WILLS, SECRETARY; CRAIG WOOLLEY, CHAIR; ANGIE YOUNG, LOCAL 1826; MARILYN MAGIERA; BARBARA PEET; JOYCE GILLESPIE, HOA MANAGER
Some of the many vendors that provided timely information to our residents included Investigative and Forensic Services, Amateur Radio Club, United Way, Lee Health, Mosquito Control, North Fort Myers Fire Department, Lee County Sheriff’s Department, Herons Glen CERT, EMS, Local 1826, Florida Highway Patrol, All For Vets, and Gulf Coast News NBC-2.
Residents were able to try their luck at our raffle that included many items from local restaurants, stores, beauty establishments, golf items, and more.
Through the efforts of this hardworking committee a donation in the amount of $10,013 was made to the Local 1826.
The SSEP Committee would like to thank our residents for their continued support.
SPRING CLEANING TIPS
LINDA LYNCH, HERONS GLEN
Ahhhh, Spring! Freshness, youth, vitality, a new beginning! The perfect time to undertake those spring cleaning projects. And while you may be thinking of traditional cleaning – beating the carpets, rotating the mattresses, waxing
the wooden furniture – it’s a great time to think about cleaning out your garage and attic areas. But it’s important to keep in mind that much of what you’ve accumulated in your garage or attic may not be appropriate for your garbage container.
Anything marked flammable, hazardous, caustic, etc., needs proper disposal to protect people and the environment. Items such as these may be disposed of properly by taking them to the Lee County Solid Waste Annex located at 6441 Topaz Court in Fort Myers (off Metro Parkway between Colonial and Daniels). This facility is open on Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on the first Saturday of each month from 8 a.m. to noon (unless closed for a Lee County holiday, such as Presidents’ Day). Their
phone is (239) 533-8000 if you wish to contact them to confirm their hours and availability.
What items are appropriate for the Topaz Court facility?
• Aerosol cans that aren’t empty (if empty, place in your recycle bin)
• Ammunition and fireworks
• Auto/Boat/Motorcycle lead/acid batteries and vehicle fluids such as oil or gasoline
• Batteries including alkaline batteries
AA, AAA, C, D, 9-volt, button batteries for watches and hearing aids, nickelcadmium and lithium-ion batteries found in cordless phones, rechargeable batteries like those in cordless drills
• Cleaners and solvents (such as ammonia, bleach, oven cleaner, etc.)
• Electronics – can be separated from garbage and left curbside or taken to Topaz Court
• Fluorescent bulb ballast fixture, fluorescent tubes, UV bulbs, compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs, and LED bulbs
• Lawn and garden chemicals, including pesticides and fertilizers
• Latex paint (empty or completely dried cans can be disposed of with your regular household garbage)
• Other (oil-based, alkyd, epoxy, etc.) paints, stains and paint thinner
• Pool and spa maintenance chemicals
• Propane tanks
• Pesticides
• Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms (smoke detectors)
At Topaz Court, Solid Waste technicians consolidate the chemicals received into 55-gallon drums and 5-gallon pails for transport via a contracted waste handler to an approved recycling or disposal facility. Approximately 90 percent of the materials brought to the Topaz Court household chemical waste drop off facility are recycled.
Unwanted or unneeded prescription and non-prescription medications may be taken to Lee County Sheriff’s Office prescription drug drop-off boxes Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Our nearest office is the Alpha District Office at 121 Pondella Road, North Fort Myers, (239) 4771810.
Lee County, in collaboration with the Lee County Health Department and participating Lee County fire stations, also sponsors a free used Sharps collection program. Sharps are syringes with attached needles, lancets, or
devices having the potential to puncture or lacerate. They must be disposed of in special red box Sharps containers that are available for free at select hospital locations and for a small fee at most local pharmacies. Once the red box is filled, it can be sealed and dropped off during business hours at participating fire stations. There are three participating North Fort Myers fire stations at 1280 Barrett Road, 16290 Slater Road, and 2900 Trail Dairy.
So don’t confine your spring cleaning activities to the rooms inside your house. Be sure to include your garage and attic and then safely dispose of any dangerous and hazardous items you no longer need.
OHIO CLUB DINNER
ROSE SWISHER, HERONS GLEN
The Ohio Club had its ANNUAL welcome back dinner on January 24!
Bob Nudo served as emcee of the event, and Gary Swisher shared a prayer of blessings for the food and gratitude for those in attendance. Oh, and, also for the National Championship title won by the Buckeyes.
Then, forty-five Buckeyes enjoyed delicious meals of salads, filet, salmon, or chicken with mashed potatoes and mixed vegetables. This was followed by a scrumptious apple dessert with caramel sauce and ice cream!
After dinner the ever popular “game” provided by Bob and Nancy Nudo was played. With a possible score of 24, the team of Art Reiff, Robin Farinet, Christine Naberhaus, and Rita and Doug Schuler scored an impressive 22 and won the prize of bragging rights until next year’s event. A picture of the winning team is included in this article.
Dave Jackman made an informative presentation on Ohio’s presidential history. Dave also shared some up-todate information on the Intel project and another exciting company, Anduril, that will be building a huge operation in the Columbus area. A reminder to all of
WINNERS - ART REIFF, ROBIN FARINET, CHRISTIINE NABERHAUS, PAT SCHULER, AND DOUG SCHULER
us that we can be proud of our Great State of Ohio.
The Ohio Club’s next planned activity is a euchre and game night on February 21. A bocce and shuffleboard day is being planned for March. Watch for details in future emails and announcements.
INTO THE WILD BLUE YONDER JACK NELSON, HERONS GLEN
My best buddy Tony Bartholomew and I were classmates at Brockport State Teachers College. Brockport is a village on the Erie Canal in western New York, between Rochester and Buffalo. In 1953 we were in the middle of our sophomore year.
Tony was the proud owner of a Stearman biplane, a tandem two-seater with an open cockpit, two main landing gear, and a tail wheel. The Stearman,
designated the N-2S by the U.S. Navy, was the training aircraft for would-be naval aviators in the 1930s. President George H. W. Bush trained in the N-2S, and went on to earn his Navy Wings of Gold. It was mid-February, 1953. By early afternoon on the sixteenth, the temperature had struggled to reach the upper twenties. The sun was beaming unobstructed, and the ground was nearly snowfree, unusual for upstate New York at that time of year.
Tony kept his plane hangared at Rochester Municipal Airport, now Rochester International. On February 16th, we had only one class and by 10 a.m., we were free for the rest of the day – a perfect opportunity for my buddy to offer me a plane ride. It would my first and Tony knew I was an aviation enthusiast. He asked me if I was up for it. How could I refuse?
fly. At 2:17 p.m., the control tower cleared us for takeoff. Tony asked me if I was ready, and I gave him a huge thumbs up. As we roared down the runway, I had an exhilarated feeling
like none I’d ever experienced before. When we reached 70 miles per hour, we broke free from the runway. I was jubilant, ecstatic, elated! I was so excited, I nearly wet my pants! For the first time in my life there was space between me and Mother Earth.
At 2 p.m., we were walking around the plane to be sure everything was in order, including the gas and oil levels, and ten minutes later we strapped into our seats with Tony in the rear. Instructors always sat in the rear. We were fortunate to have an enclosed canopy a welcomed advantage due to the frigid temperature.
The engine roared to life, and it took only eight minutes for it to be warm enough to
We headed for a large open field. Tony would be practicing crop dusting. He planned to remove the front seat and replace it with a hopper, which would contain pesticides. When we arrived at the field Tony put us into a steep dive and, when we were only three feet above the ground, we were racing along at 120 miles per hour! When we reached the tree line at the other end of the field Tony pulled up into a sharp climb, made a steep left turn, then another steep left turn, and a dive back to the field. Back and forth
we went. It was like a carnival ride! I was thankful that Tony was an excellent pilot. Crop dusting was a dangerous occupation.
On the way back to the airport, Tony handed the controls over to me and talked to me about the procedures. After about 10 minutes, I was keeping us straight and level, and my gentle turns were wellcoordinated. Tony told me I was a natural. I made up my mind at that moment that I would be a pilot someday.
The year 1957 was a banner year for Tony and me. Capital Airlines hired Tony as a pilot. In no time, he was promoted to captain, flying Vickers Viscounts, with four turboprop engines and a seating capacity of 43 passengers. On Saint Patrick’s Day of that same year, I earned my Navy Wings of Gold. Hallelujah for both of us! Off we went into the wild blue yonder nearly every day and we’d always remember that chilly day in mid-February, 1953.
FALLEN TREE ART
DENISE JOHNSON, HERONS GLEN
DENISE JOHNSON AND BECKY GIGNAC
We have watched the many “faces” of the Fallen Tree since August 2024. Each changing face was quite fun and noticeable. We enjoyed it
IT’S FIVE O’CLOCK SOMEWHERE – WINE
TRIVIA 101
CANDACE HUETTEMAN, HERONS GLEN
You don’t know what tannins are, and you don’t know if you’ll enjoy a full-bodied wine or a blend, but you want to order a bottle of vino to celebrate a special occasion. You’ve heard of a sommelier, but you really don’t know if he’ll be able to help you. What is a
decorated for Christmas through February. Sadly, someone not only cut the tree back, but removed what was left of the remaining piece of art.
We will miss this fun piece of art.
sommelier anyway, and what does he do? Perhaps our look of confusion is what prompts a man to approach our table and ask us if we need help choosing a wine. This person, we assume is the sommelier. Sommeliers, or wine stewards, are trained and knowledgeable wine professionals commonly working in fine restaurants and specializing in all aspects of wine services, including food and wine pairing. Sommeliers typically develop wine lists, train the other restaurant staff, and work along with the culinary team to pair and suggest wines to best complement each menu item. Sommeliers also often work
VALENTINE’S THEME
NO MORE FALLEN TREE
the floor of the restaurant in direct contact with customers to suggest options within their taste and budget.
When the Sommelier brings a bottle of wine that has a screw cap, we figure that he thinks we’re real dummies with no taste and a limited budget at best. He probably thinks that we’re not the usual clientele that eats at such a fancy restaurant. When we question him about his choice, he assures us that screw caps or corks in no way define the quality of a wine. Some wineries in some countries use screw caps while others use corks. Which country uses the most screw caps per capita? New Zealand. 95% of wines from New Zealand have screw caps while 80% of wines from Australia have them. Wines from South Africa and Chile are known to be good, and they each cap about 65% of their bottles. The U.S. only caps about 5% of its wine. France closes 80% of their wines with corks.
While many countries have started using screw caps, Portugal, the country with the largest cork tree in the world, can help meet the demand of those wineries still using cork. Whistler, as this famous cork tree is called, averages over one ton of raw cork per harvest every nine years. That’s enough to cork 100,000 bottles! Cork is one of Portugal’s
biggest and most important exports, and the country is actually the biggest cork producer in the world.
But why have screw caps become such a popular alternative to cork? Contamination can happen during the cork sterilization process, and this can lead to a number of “corked” or infected bottles. Screw caps help wineries avoid such costly and wasteful mishaps.
So, it’s finally time to sample some wines. But, in which order should we drink various wines? We are told the order in which we drink wines can have a big impact on flavor. We must avoid having any one wine dominate and “throw off” our senses. To make sure this doesn’t happen, we should drink white before red, dry before sweet, light body before heavy body, and young before old. After talking to the sommelier, we may feel like we know more about wine, but we’re still thirsty, so let’s open a bottle and propose a toast, “Cin cin.”
Cin cin is the most common way to say “Cheers” in Italian. This is a casual and informal toast that is commonly used among friends and family. “Salute” is another way to say “Cheers” which is more formal and is often used in formal settings such as dinner parties and business events.
Community Activities
ACTIVITIES FAIR
DENISE FELL, HERONS GLEN
Over 200 residents gathered at Herons Glen Ballroom on Sunday, January 26 for the annual Activities Fair sponsored by the HOA Activities Committee. The event featured over 35 clubs, sports, committees, and activities. Highlights included a Bridge Club teaching session and Tai Chi on the veranda, along with raffles from Pretty in Pink and the Grounds Committee, and T-shirt and flag sales by the Veterans Club. Attendees enjoyed connecting with fellow residents and exploring new interests, while representatives aimed to recruit new members.
ISLAND COAST HIGH SCHOOL –GO GATOR EVENT
DENISE JOHNSON, HERONS GLEN
Three Sisters of Alpha Delta Alpha, Rhonda Parkinson (and her husband Dwayne), Paula Klimas (and her husband Ron), and Sandy Croft, attended a “Go Gator” event at Island Coast High School on Friday, January 31. This is a “reward” event that is held every semester for qualifying students. Approximately 200 students reached at least one goal in the last quarter: returning all homework, 100% attendance record, no failures on report card, or being helpful and courteous to all.
The event began by giving each student a treat which was bought with ADA’s semiannual donation. In addition, the donation was used to buy gifts that were placed in a raffle for which each student received ten tickets. The raffle consisted of a television, several headphones, two backpacks with miscellaneous gift certificates, an iPhone, and several other gifts. The students showed their appreciation for ADA with a resounding round of applause from the students for all the support given to them throughout the year.
The Go Gator reward events are sponsored by the Positive Behavior Intervention and Support (PBIS) program at ICHS. The PBIS program addresses undesirable behaviors by acknowledging desirable behaviors. And, by rewarding students who do the
TRISH
WILLIAMS, PBIS COORDINATOR AND ADA SISTERS PAULA KLIMAS, RHONDA PARKINSON AND SANDY CROFT
right thing, it will encourage other students to do likewise. Trish Williams, the coordinator of the program, notes that their job is to notice when a student starts to make a positive turn and reinforce that behavior.
ADA TOURS HEARTS AND HOMES FOR VETERANS
DENISE JOHNSON, HERONS GLEN
GERRY WEINBERGER, HERONS GLEN
Nine Alpha Delpha Alpha Sisters traveled to Hearts and Homes for Veterans on Thursday, February 13. Dale Spain, Director, gave us a tour of the entire facility. The new warehouse manager was also available for a tour of the warehouse. Following the tours, we went to
their conference room for a question-andanswer session. We presented a donation check to Mr. Spain from our recent Foster’s Grill fundraiser. Thank you, Herons Glen residents and friends for your participation.
After our visit to Hearts and Homes, we had lunch at the Farmer’s Market Restaurant, just a few blocks away. We met our adopted veteran there, which gave us the opportunity to get to know her better.
1. What are the colors of the rainbow?
2. What is the speed of sound at sea level?
3. In 1976, what movie took the top four Oscars – picture, director, actor, actress?
4. What NBA basketball team has won the most championships?
5. What was the 48th state to be admitted to the Union and what was the year?
ADA SISTERS AND DALE SPAIN
DALE SPAIN AND GLORIA SELANDER
TRIVIA CORNER
JACK NELSON, HERONS GLEN
CHORUS VISITS SENIORS
ED HUETTEMAN, HERONS GLEN
On February 12, fifty members of the Herons Glen Chorus went to the Calusa Harbour Senior Living Center to serenade the residents. The chorus sang seven of the songs they will be presenting at their annual concert on March 23.
ALPHA DELTA MU CANDACE HUETTEMAN, HERONS GLEN
On February 12, Alpha Delta Mu (ADM) inducted four new members: Cathy Barbal, Maureen McCarren, Karen Katz and Vicki Reid. Present at the induction ceremony were Ruth Poster, Terry Rosen, Cathy Barbal, Cheri Brandt, Candace Huetteman, Maureen McCarran, Elaine Quillian, Trisha Chesnov, Karen Katz, Mary Porter, Vicki Reid, and Clara Reta.
THE PEAK OF PINK JANET SLATER, HERONS GLEN
You’ve heard it coming, seen the flamingos, maybe tasted the baked goods or bought some raffle tickets, and wondered how there could be yet another ad for Pretty in Pink. Now it’s right around the corner— the climax of the annual fundraiser sponsored by the Herons Glen Ladies’ Golf Associations. March 19 starts off with a fun 18-hole golf tournament and continues with a luncheon for golfers and non-golfers alike. The beautifully decorated ballroom will be filled with about 200 women dressed in pink, and rows of gift baskets waiting to go home with lucky raffle ticket holders. A guest
from Partners for Breast Cancer Care, Inc., will speak briefly and receive a check representing the support of the hundreds of Herons Glen residents who supported Pretty in Pink in some way. A highlight of the luncheon will be honoring the survivors of all types of cancer.
Places may still be available for the luncheon or golf tournament. Please contact Bonnie MacGregor for information at (585) 303-0624 or bonniemac@frontier.com.
There’s still time to buy tickets for both the gift baskets raffle and the jewelry raffle! You don’t need to be present to win. Here’s how to get yours: March 18, 2 to 4 p.m., in the Ballroom March 19, 9 to 11 a.m., in the Ballroom
Basket Raffle tickets are $10 for a sheet of 20, or $25 for 3 sheets (60 tickets); cash or check payable to BFBCC Inc. If you’re not attending the luncheon, you can place your tickets March 19 from 9 to 11 a.m. Questions? Contact Nancy Thompson, (315) 466-9091 or dthompso@twcny.rr.com.
Jewelry Raffle tickets for the beautiful sapphire and diamond pendant pictured here are $10 each or 3 for $25, cash or check payable to PFBCC Inc. Questions? Contact Mary Koenig, (239) 989-3052 or mkoenig45@gmail.com.
All money from raffle ticket sales will go to Partners for Breast Cancer Care, Inc., to provide diagnostic testing and breast cancer treatment to low-income, uninsured residents of Lee and surrounding counties.
Thank you for your support!
A GLOW BEYOND THE JEWELRY
JANET SLATER, HERONS GLEN
When Mary Koenig opened her house for her annual Pretty in Pink Jewelry Party on January 28, she had no idea the event would not only raise over $1,000 but also reach beyond Herons Glen and into the hearts of new and old friends.
Mary’s house backs up to the 14th tee box of Magnolia Landing golf course. Whenever carts pulled up that afternoon, partygoers would yell, “The bar is open!” and many golfers came in for an adult beverage. “We’d tell them we were doing a fundraiser for breast cancer,” says Mary, “at which point I made them the drink of their choice and they padded the Tip Jar.” But the most memorable part of the party was not the money raised. “One gentleman told us that his granddaughter was diagnosed with T-Cell Lymphoma at age 4, and in July she would be five years cancer-free. He had us in tears. We had just lost a dear friend and neighbor two months earlier to that cancer.” Later that day, the man came back to Mary’s house to tell them he had talked to his wife
and daughter, and they asked him to get a picture taken with the group at the party.
At the end of the day, Mary’s party raised $575 from the sales of elegant Silpada jewelry and $445 from the Tip Jar. But just as important as the lives that will be helped through that contribution to Partners for Breast Cancer Care, Inc., are the connections it made in the hearts of all who took part. Thank you to all who supported Pretty in Pink at the jewelry party!
JIGSAW PUZZLE COMPETITION
DENISE FELL, HERONS GLEN
The third Herons Glen Jigsaw Puzzle Competition, hosted by the Residents Events Committee, took place on Saturday, January 25, and it was a nail-biting event. Ten teams of randomly selected puzzlers worked on identical 500-piece puzzles of a General Store. Prizes were awarded to the top three teams. The team consisting of Maryann Simpson, Diane Loughlin, and Linda Kuhn secured First Place, impressively completing the puzzle in 1 hour and 25 minutes. Bea Bove’, Kathy Lynch, and Jean Perillo-Roman came in second with a time of 1 hour and 45 minutes, while Alan Payne, Jim Horton, and Stephanie Meierhofer who jumped in at the last moment to sub, helped the
team finish third with a time of 1 hour and 50 minutes. If you haven’t played yet, don’t worry, additional puzzle events are being planned.
FIRST PLACE – MARYANN SIMPSON, DIANE LOUGHLIN, AND LINDA KUHN
SECOND PLACE - KATHY LYNCH, BEA BOVE’, AND JEAN PERILLO-ROMAN
THIRD PLACE – STEPHANIE MEIERHOFER, ALAN PAYNE, AND JIM HORTON
SOCIALITES LEARN TO BE DAMSELS IN DEFENSE
PAM SCHEID, HERONS GLEN
Personal safety was the theme for the Socialites’ February luncheon meeting. Mary Lou Pierozzi introduced Laura Fogerty, who came to talk to the members about ways to protect themselves in public. Representing Damsels in Defense, she explained this nonprofit organization was founded to support “women, nice men, and families.” Very much involved with combatting sex trafficking, the organization established Damsel House, a safe house to shelter rescued girls and young women. In the safe house the girls are cared for and, as a part of their rehabilitation, they are taught skills they can use to improve their lives. (There are two similar facilities in Sarasota and Port Charlotte.) Ms. Fogerty reminded the members of the enormity of the problem of human trafficking throughout the world, including in the United States.
The other mission of Damsels in Defense is to teach women simple ways to protect themselves from would-be predators. The first thing is to be aware of one’s surroundings and to trust one’s instincts to recognize when something is wrong. The next is to be prepared to act. Screaming or loudly demanding the stalker to back off is one way to ward off an attacker. Fogerty also recommended some defensive weapons women can carry and have ready to use when necessary. She had a collection of tasers, pepper spray, and loud alarm sounders, which she demonstrated. At the conclusion of her presentation, Fogerty answered questions from the members. She
also held a drawing for a door prize, which Deb Polenska won.
Before the soup and salad buffet, President Janet Kerns welcomed the group and complimented Mary Lou Pierozzi for the table decorations. She also reminded members to sign up to be models in the April fashion show. She then called on Kathleen Colletti, who announced next month’s menu, and Cheryl Dawes, who introduced new members. Treasurer Bev Groft reported that this month’s member contribution to the All Souls church outreach program totaled $429.
The program for the March luncheon meeting is The ABCs of Chiropractics and Cannabis.
LAURA FOGERTY FROM DAMSELS IN DEFENSE, JANET KERNS, AND MARY LOU PIEROZZI THREATEN AN IMAGINARY ATTACKER WITH THEIR LIGHTED TASERS.
SAUDI ARABIAN ADVENTURES FOR THE TRAVEL CLUB!
DUANE PARKINSON, HERONS GLEN
On Thursday, February 13, over 125 members of our rapidly growing HG Travel Club met in the Ballroom to hear Dr. Norma Hudson’s experiences of living and working in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for 35 years. For clarity, she is my “younger” sister, as she emphasizes, not “little” sister. Norma began her educational career in Saudi as a music teacher in a private international school, one of a dozen schools operated by the Saudi Arabian International School (SAIS) system. She and her husband Bruce (now deceased) taught in the private SAIS schools and, after earning graduate degrees, both became SAIS administrators. After she earned her doctorate, she became superintendent over the entire SAIS system in the Kingdom.
She showed us numerous photos of what it is like to live in a very conservative Muslim country, where customs are quite different than our Western culture. And as you can imagine, your whole lifestyle is different in that desert country. The SAIS schools are modeled after the American education system, and there is significant focus on educational achievement in those schools.
She showed us photos of shopping opportunities, such as jewelry stores, Persian and Afghan rug shops, and modern shopping malls. Additionally, there were photos of restaurants that we think of as American, such as KFC, McDonald’s, Pizza Hut, Hardees, etc. It
was interesting to see the wordage on their signs being in Arabic, but with logos that are familiar to us. Living internationally certainly provides many more diverse types of cultural opportunities than what we have here in the U.S.
I also discussed upcoming meetings and activities for our HG Travel Club. On Monday, February 17, 85 members of the club embark on an 11day, 10-night Caribbean cruise to St. Thomas, Antigua; St. Lucia, Barbados; and St. Kitts and Nevis. I will provide more information and photos of that exciting experience in next month’s Heron .
Our next meeting on Wednesday, March 12 (in the Clubhouse Ballroom from 2 to 4 p.m.) will feature Dick Muller and Suzanne Flynn. Dick will continue his helpful hints on how to enhance the digital photos we take on our smart phones, and Suzanne
will share her recent experiences in the Galapagos Islands off the coast of Ecuador.
On Sunday, April 6, we will have 73 travel club members going to Naples to see the show The Man of La Mancha at the Naples Playhouse on Fifth Avenue and have dinner at one of the nearby restaurants of our choice. This motorcoach trip sold out very quickly.
And Monday evening, April 28, is our Annual Potluck Dinner in the Ballroom. We anticipate over 125 people at this event: details later. As you can see, our club is extremely active in travel and educational opportunities. Anyone can attend our meetings without becoming a paid member ($5 per year), but to go with us on trips or attend the Potluck you must pay that $5 membership fee. Our meeting and travel announcements are posted on the Glen’s Google Group. We have 380 members now, and 82% are paid members. Why don’t you join in the fun with us? If you have questions, then give me a call at (636) 541-4561 or Rhonda at (314) 5666168. Join our interesting club and expand your travel horizons!
Sports
NORTH FORT MYERS SENIORS 8-BALL LEAGUE MIKE STROPES, HERONS GLEN
The Herons Glen team finished the Fall season in sixth place and thus far they are in ninth place after the third week of the spring season! Ten teams are competing instead of eight as in the Fall season. The league matches are each Tuesday evening through March 25. The location of the matches varies but is often here in HG. Al Southerland is the captain of the Herons Glen team. If interested in learning more about the league and the team, please send Al an email at alsailor60@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can check out the League’s website https://cowanh.wixsite.com/nfm-8-ball.
Here are the current standings among the 10 participating communities. Each community has at least one 5-person team and some communities have two teams.
Sports
BOWLING LEAGUE
MIKE STROPES, HERONS GLEN
The HG Bowling League is in its second half of the season which ends on March 18 with a roll-off between the first half winner and the second half winner to determine the overall League champion. While the roll-off is occurring, the remainder of the League’s bowlers will participate in a 9-pin no-tap event. This event scores the games a bit differently in that if a bowler gets nine out of 10 pins on their first ball, it’s scored as a strike. Cash prizes are awarded to the top bowlers. It’s fun for us bowlers that struggle to pick up that pesky 10th pin. Then following the event will be a pizza party in The Nest.
If you are interested in joining the League or for additional information, please send an email to heronsglenbowling@gmail.com. By the time you read this, the League’s
season will be nearing its end, but there will be a new season starting next fall! Bowling in the League offers an opportunity to meet HG residents and stay physically active.
The League was represented at the recent Activities Fair by League President Linda Protani, and bowlers Marilyn and Steve Levin, pictured below left to right.
Here are the current standings and statistics for the League:
HERONS GLEN BOWLING LEAGUE 2024-2025 SEASON
TOP 3 TEAMS FOR THE 2ND HALF OF THE LEAGUE’S SEASON THROUGH 2/11/2025: Place, Team Name & Points
Team Members
1st Place: Bowl-Dacious Fun - 31 Bill Eshbach, Mary Ann Peckham, Ruth Poster, Edie Ochab
2nd Place: Soo Close - 29 Nora Wood, Kimberly Bock, Steve Levin, Frank Krawczyk
LEAGUE’S TOP BOWLERS BY CATEGORY FOR THE 2024-2025 SEASON TO DATE:
Top Female Bowlers
Scratch Series Linda Protani-574 Pat Spagnolo-530 Pam Johnson-518 Melanie Westfall-454
Scratch Game Pat Spagnolo-231 Linda Protani-214 Skipper Cook183 Melanie Westfall-181
Handicap Series Pam Johnson-731 Susan Savage-708 Pat Spagnolo-707 Jan Norris-680
Handicap Game Pat Spagnolo-290 Kimberly Bock & Skipper Cook -262 Andrea Helms-260 Laurie Decker-244
Highest Average Linda Protani-160 Pat Spagnolo-146 Pam Johnson-140 Melanie Westfall-139
Most Improved Pam Johnson 24.5 Joann Owens 11.7 Marilyn Levin 7.9 not applicable
Top Male Bowlers
Scratch Series Dave Jager-683 Ed Schmidt-641 Ron Decker-640 Chuck Minerd-596
Scratch Game Dave Jager & Ed Schmidt-258 Dave Jager & Leroy Moyer-255 Dave Badger-254 Al Casten-226
Handicap Series Steve Levin-742 Tom Radcliff-726 Frank Krawczyk-716 Chuck Minerd-728
Handicap Game John Pope-288 Frank Krawczyk-283 Dave Badger& Ed Schmidt -279 Al Casten-277
Highest Average Dave Jager-194 Leroy Moyer-188 Ed Schmidt-185 Chuck Minerd-161
Most Improved Augie Spagnolo 14.5 Edward Schmidt 13.3 Mike Stropes 13.0 not applicable
Sports
CAN-AM BOCCE 2025
PATTI CUMMINGS, HERONS GLEN
After being delayed due to rainy weather, the Can-Am annual bocce tournament was held on January 18. David Muir, director of the HG chorus, led the group in singing the national anthems of our two countries (pictured below). The day, though cloudy at the start, developed into a beautiful afternoon. Alas, it was not a beautiful result for the American teams as Canadian teams bested the Americans with a 19 to 11 score. Pictured by the scoreboard are Paul Turley, Canadian Captain and Larry Cummings, American Captain. Despite a loss, the American teams look forward to another great Can-Am next season!
CAPTAINS PAUL TURLEY AND LARRY CUMMINGS
FEUD 2025
PATTI CUMMINGS, HERONS GLEN
Yes, there’s a feud going on … a Bocce Feud that is! On Saturday, February 5, two bocce teams played out the annual “feud.” Great efforts were made by both the Schneider and the Cummings teams but in the end Schneider players were the victors. The photo shows team captains Larry Cummings and Tom Schneider by the scoreboard for the games. One little mistake was made, however. The actual score was Schneider – 15 and Cummings – 9 after 24 games were played. Was Schneider trying to inflate the score??? It’s all in fun and everyone had a really good time and really good food, too (provided by our restaurant team).
LADY NINERS PRESIDENT’S CUP
DENISE JOHNSON, HERONS GLEN
The Lady Niners played their annual President’s Cup on January 15 and 29. Cold weather pushed our second round to Jan. 29. Winners will be recognized at our March meeting. The winners are:
Flight 1
1st Place: Karen Popp
2nd Place: Susan Kane
3rd Place: Peg Rabb
4th Place: Paulette Miller
Flight 2
1st Place: Mickey Lowe
2nd Place: Bonnie MacGregor
3rd Place: Terry Viau
4th Place: Carol Moore
Flight 3
1st Place: Kathy Holmes
2nd Place: Helen Misener
3rd Place: Nikki Baxter
4th Place: Donna Johnson
Flight 4
1st Place: Bonnie Bickel
2nd Place: Kathleen Olsen
3rd Place: Kathleen Colletti
4th Place: Ellen Halleran
Overall Winner: Karen Popp
TOM SCHNEIDER AND LARRY CUMMINGS
Sports
DUKE & DUCHESS TOURNAMENT 2025
ARTICLE AND DENISE JOHNSON
The Lady Niners 9-hole golf league held their 25th annual Duke & Duchess Tournament on Wednesday, February 12, at 1 p.m. The game was a two-person Chapman Alternate Shot on the back nine with husbands, significant others or friends as partners. An awards dinner followed at 5:30 p.m., in the formal dining room with cocktails, appetizers and awards with dinner served at 6:30 p.m.
There were two flights this year.
Flight 1
1st Place: D’Arcie and Steve Kisner
2nd Place: Lori and Gary Vivian
3rd Place: Micky and Steve Lowe Flight 2
1st Place: Kathleen Colletti and Dick Barrow
2nd Place: Donna and Bruce Johnson
3rd Place: Janet and Evan Slater
Overall Winners: Duke & Duchess, Steve and D’Arcie Kisner
A trophy was presented to the new Duke & Duchess, 2024-2025. The trophy will be passed every successive year and updated with the new Duke & Duchess names. Gift cards to the Pro Shop were awarded to the winners.
Many thanks to our Duke & Duchess coordinator, Kathleen Colletti and her committee, Carol Ross and Delores Barrow, for arranging the dinner celebration
& DUCHESS, D’ARCIE AND STEVE KISNER
RUNNERS-UP, KATHLEEN COLLETTI AND DICK BARROW
and table décor. We also give big thanks to the Pro Shop, Food and Beverage staff and Chef for coordinating tee times, prizes, the wonderful dinner and the servers for their usual attention to all attendees.
A good time was had by all, and we’ll look forward to the 2025-2026 event.
DUKE
Sports
THE LADY NINERS SILVER ANNIVERSARY
BECKY GIGNAC AND DENISE JOHNSON, HERONS GLEN
On February 25, 2000, an open meeting was held in the Glen with 27 ladies attending. The agenda included Q&A for forming a Ladies’ 9-Hole golf league. Two additional meetings were scheduled: March 4, for nomination of officers and collection of dues, and March 11, to elect officers with committees to be established at the first annual meeting scheduled for the second Wednesday in April.
Herons Glen Ladies 9-Hole Golf Association was officially formed on March 9, 2000, and was commonly known as the “Gold Miner’s Niners.” We now refer to ourselves as “The Lady Niners.”
Many of the tournaments and special events the Lady Niners continue to play in to this day are:
• Rally for the Cure (now Pretty in Pink). $1,815 was raised in 2000. We’ve come a long way since then.
FIRST OFFICERS –
PRESIDENT, GLADYS JODOIN ; VICE PRESIDENT, MARILYN SIMMONS; SECRETARY, SHIRLEY BOWER; TREASURER, BARBARA SIDARIS
• The first annual Duke & Duchess was held on January 24, 2001, with 24 couples, awards and dinner. This tradition continues.
• The first Invitational, Swing into Spring, was played on February 28, 2001, which included 26 players from 12 country clubs. These are now KISS events (Keep It Simple Summer). The Lady Niners now take part in these events through Lee County’s Council of Ladies Nine Hole Golf Association (LCCLNHGA) of which there are 25 clubs.
• The first President’s Cup and League Championships began in the spring of 2001; Barbara Sidaris was the first League Champion and Joan Page was the first President’s Cup winner.
2001 DUKE AND DUCHESS WINNERS –BARBARA AND ED DRELLA
The Lady Niners also instituted a fun prize of dropping a quarter in a can located in the Golf Shop before Wednesday League Day games. If a golfer has a chip-in on any of the nine holes, she wins the “prize pot” of quarters.
Birdies/eagles and holes in one are also reported, and pins are awarded to those golfers at the season’s final meeting.
In 2023, the Historian began compiling the History of the Lady Niners. Information was obtained by scrapbooks beginning in 2000. Pictures and newspaper articles were scanned into a database archived by season (e.g., 20002001). The Historian keeps this database up to date with current events, which can be found on The Lady Niners website: https://mooreflorida.wixsite.com/hg9holes.
HGRD Weekly Newsletter Emails and Online: https://heronsglencc.com/group/pages/communications
The Heron Online and Community TV Channels 901 and 902: https://hggcc.com/Wordpress/index.php/communications/
Calling On All Writers!
The Heron magazine has arrived and with it, new ways to share with the community! How would you like to be a part of The Heron’s growth? We are looking to expand community engagement. Do you write poetry? Do you want to share a great recipe? Do you have a special hobby? Do you have an interesting family history,
story, or event to share? Do you have gardening advice? We know all you “Glenners” out there are experts on something or have stories to tell! We would love to hear from you! Just contact us at HGNewspaper@gmail.com. We can even help you write up your information!
