The Heron
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Resident Photographer Spotlight: Dan Lim
SUE MCCOY, HERONS GLEN
PHOTOS BY DAN LIM
Author’s Note: I interviewed Dan for this article about a month ago, after the editorial team decided to feature his photography in our first online issue in November. Dan was delighted to have been chosen and enjoyed selecting the photographs that are featured in this issue. Unfortunately, Dan passed away before this went to publication. We are publishing the article as originally written as a tribute to Dan and Seu for their many years of capturing the fun here at the Glen through their photography.
Our featured photographer this month is long-time Glenner Dan Lim. Dan and his wife Seu moved into their home in the Glen in September of 2005. The couple have been married since October 1, 1972 and recently celebrated their 52nd wedding anniversary. They go back and forth between their other home in Fort Washington, Maryland and the Glen, several times a year. Their favorite things about living in the Glen are the people, who are like their second family, and the activities. Dan and Seu play bocce, attend all the concerts and parties, and like going to the Nest on Thursday night for the entertainment.
DAN AND SEU LIM
Dan was born in Washington, D.C., on Leap Day in 1948. His father had immigrated from Southern China to South Dakota, enlisted in the United States Army for World War II, and eventually settled in our nation’s capital city. Dan grew up there and eventually attended the University of Maryland graduating in 1971. With a degree in electrical engineering, Dan worked for PEPCo, the electric utility in Washington, D.C., for 33 years.
At about age 14, in the early 1960s, Dan’s cousin got him
interested in taking photos and developing black and white film. His first camera was an Ansco. He currently has two Nikon SLRs and a Nikon “point and shoot.” When asked about using a cell phone as a camera he explained that they are good cameras when used for their optical ability; however, the digital zoom is not as good as with a camera’s optical zoom lens.
Within Herons Glen, a few of Dan’s favorite photo ops are the lake on Via Verde for sunsets and the lake at Hole No. 5, as
well as all social events. All of us are grateful for the fun pictures he and Seu take! Outside of our bubble, he likes resorts and historic places, and anyplace on or near the water.
If you are interested in photography, Dan advises having fun and experimenting with digital cameras. The results are immediate and there are no costs involved in taking lots of photos!
The History Of Thanksgiving
CANDACE HUETTEMAN, HERONS GLEN
In a 1789 proclamation, President George Washington called on the people of the United States to acknowledge God for affording them “an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness” by observing a day of thanksgiving. Devoting a day to “public thanksgiving and prayer,” as Washington called it, became a yearly tradition in many communities.
Thanksgiving became a national holiday in 1863. In that year, during the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln made his Thanksgiving Day Proclamation. He asked his fellow citizens “to set apart and observe the last Thursday
of November next as a day of thanksgiving and praise. ...”
It was not until 1941 that Congress finally designated the fourth Thursday in November as Thanksgiving Day, thus creating a federal holiday. But, of course, Thanksgiving did not originate as a result of presidential proclamations. Native American festivals had been celebrated for centuries before the colonial celebrations of the late 16th century. Thanksgiving, as we know it today, began in the early 1600s when settlers in both Massachusetts and Virginia came together to give thanks for their fields and their faith. The most widely known early Thanksgiving is the celebration of the Pilgrims in Plymouth,
Massachusetts. They feasted for three days with the Wampanoag people in 1621.
Did the Pilgrims and Wampanoags feast on turkey? Nobody knows for sure, but “wild fowl” is certainly mentioned in historical accounts along with venison and shellfish. So why is a traditional Thanksgiving celebrated with turkey today? It is because at one time turkey was considered a rare treat. During the 1830s, an eight-to-10-pound bird cost a day’s wages. Even though turkeys are affordable today, they still remain a “celebratory symbol of bounty.” In fact, astronauts Neil Armstrong and Edwin Aldrin ate roast turkey in foil packets for their first meal on the moon.
The Travel Club Honors Jim Gormley
DUANE PARKINSON, HERONS GLEN
On Monday evening, October 14, the Herons Glen Travel Club met for our October meeting in the ballroom to honor Jim Gormley and his 17 years of leadership to our club. Jim has worked tirelessly to plan and coordinate activities for our club for a myriad of destinations. The club has taken many local, national and international trips under Jim’s leadership. We also showed Jim’s video of club activities over the past year on our new huge screen in the ballroom. The new overhead projector and screen system worked flawlessly. Thank you, HGRD! The club honored Jim and presented him with a gift card to the Nest that he and Darlene can use. Thank you, Jim!
So, what does the future hold for the club? Rhonda and I are very excited to work with members to plan out other interesting locations for us. The club now has 298 members, with about 35 “first timers” at our September meeting and 35 paid new members. A big “thank you” to Carol Bryant, Sue McCoy, Jo Potts, Marla Pierce and Rhonda Parkinson for checking people in and collecting dues. Remember, our dues are $5 per fiscal year (September to August 2025). You can attend meetings
without being a paid member, but you must pay those $5 annual dues to attend outings, our dinners, etc.
Our September meeting was cancelled because there was an AC issue for the ballroom, so we have had to revise our upcoming schedule for the next year. In short, our new schedule is:
November 13 to 14: Overnight trip to the Stetson Mansion in DeLand, Fla., and the Morse Museum of American Art the next day in Winter Park, Fla. The Stetson Mansion has “over the top” Christmas decorations in each of the interior rooms on the first two floors of the mansion. The Morse Museum holds
the world’s largest collection of Tiffany art glass, from the traditional lamps we commonly visualize when we think of Tiffany glass, to huge cathedral windows that he designed and built. We have 52 people going on this overnight trip.
December 4: Our Christmas dinner in the ballroom. Signups will open in early November.
January 2025: We will take a motorcoach up to Snook Haven in Venice to see and hear the Southwest Florida Banjo Society. They play on Thursday at lunchtime, so we will enjoy lunch, have a beverage, and listen to some entertaining music.
JIM GORMLEY
February 13, 2025: A combo meeting of hearing from Dr. Norma Hudson’s experiences of living and working for 34 years in Saudi Arabia’s culture and seven years in Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia. The Saudi culture is extremely different from our Western culture and presents some particular challenges. We will also have a final details meeting at this time for our Celebrity Caribbean cruisers.
February 17 to 27, 2025: A funpacked 11-day, 10-night cruise to St. Thomas, Antigua, Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Kitts, and Nevis. We have 87 Glenners going on the cruise.
April 28, 2025: Potluck dinner in the ballroom.
March, June, July, and August: Program to be determined. We have numerous people here in the Glen with amazing travel experiences to Africa, Antarctica, the Galapagos Islands, Vietnam, Cambodia, etc. Lots of guest speaker ideas. Our members love to travel, have new experiences and learn about interesting locations.
Come and join in our travel fun.
JIM GORMLEY AND DUANE PARKINSON
COMING SOON
Community News
Note: location may change based on ballroom completion
11/13 VOG Meeting Activities Room “A”
11/14 Sunsets Duo Restaurant
11/14 Farmers Market Parking Lot
11/16 Opening Season Party Ballroom
11/17 Marbles Ballroom
11/19 Socialites Ballroom
11/20 Littleton Fundraiser Ballroom
11/21 Farmers Market Parking Lot
11/21 Smalltown Duo Restaurant
11/28 Thanksgiving Ballroom
12/3 Jack & Jill Luncheon Ballroom
12/4 Travel Club Dinner Ballroom
12/5 Farmers Market Parking Lot
12/5 Ron Lorenzo Restaurant
12/7 Holiday Tour Homes
12/8 Golf Cart Parade Ballroom
12/11 Singles Group Meeting Activities Room “A”
12/11 VOG Meeting Activities Room “A”
12/12 Farmers Market Parking Lot
12/12 Double Dare Restaurant
12/14 VOG Christmas Dinner Ballroom
12/17 Socialites Ballroom
12/18 Candlelight Dinner Restaurant
12/19 Farmers Market Parking Lot
12/19 Sunsets Duo Restaurant
12/25 Christmas
12/26 Farmers Market Parking Lot
12/26 Smalltown Duo Restaurant
12/30 Bloodmobile Parking Lot
12/31 New Year’s Eve Ballroom
ARTICLE DEADLINES
Issue Month/Year Date Due To The Heron December 2024 November 15 January 2025 December 21 Articles should be sent to HGNewspaper@gmail.com.
Dan Lim Ted Socha
Shirley Spicer
Janice and Terry McElfresh Lisa and Ross Thompson
Charlene and Benjamin Youngblood
HOA AND HGRD SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS
The following is a listing of HOA and HGRD meetings known at the time of publication. As these dates are subject to change, please check the Herons Glen website calendar and the community channel for updates.
Calendar Of HOA Meetings November 12 To December.
All committee meetings are via Zoom/HOA Conference Room unless noted otherwise.
11/12 Architectural Review Committee, 9 a.m.
11/13 Board Meeting, 5 p.m.
11/14 Grounds Committee, 1 p.m.
11/20 Communications Committee, 1 p.m.
11/21 Activities Committee, 10 a.m.
11/22 SSEP Committee, 8:30 a.m.
11/26 Architectural Review Committee, 9 a.m.
11/28 Finance Committee, 1:30 p.m.
12/3 Board Workshop, 1 p.m.
12/10 Architectural Review Committee, 9 a.m.
12/11 Annual Meeting, 4:30 p.m., Ballroom
12/11 Board Meeting, 5 p.m., Ballroom
12/12 Grounds Committee, 1 p.m.
12/18 Communications Committee, 1 p.m.
12/19 Activities Committee, 10 a.m.
12/24 Architectural Review Committee, 9 a.m.
12/26 Finance Committee, 1:30 p.m.
12/29 SSEP Committee. 8:30 a.m.
Calendar Of HGRD Meetings November 11 To December. All committee meetings are via Zoom/Card Room C unless noted otherwise.
11/11 Facilities and Amenities, 9 a.m.
11/18 Board Meeting, 9 a.m.
12/2 Golf Committee, 9 a.m.
12/2 Resident Events Committee, 1 p.m., Activities Room “A”
12/9 Board Meeting, 9 a.m.
12/16 Long-Range Planning Committee, 9 a.m.
Community Activities
The winners of the $100 September 28 final receipt drawing of the season were D’Arcie and Steve Kisner.
S en ior L i v i n g
SAILING MODEL SAILBOATS
THOMAS MYERS, HERONS GLEN
The radio controlled sailing sport, or hobby whichever you prefer, is not a well-known pastime. It is very popular in many retirement communities but also in some cities like Dallas and San Francisco where major racing events are held. The American Model Yacht Association (AMYA) has over a hundred registered clubs and Herons Glen is Club No. 329. The AMYA recognizes 34 classes of boats that are the most popular with the racing community because of their design and sailing abilities.
A recognized class boat is not necessarily one that looks classy, but one that is controlled by a set of rules defining the hull size and shape, sail area, keel length, weight or water line length and rigging. The rules are strictly enforced so when members are competing, all boats are equal and the racing results reflect sailing skills or sometimes lucky wind gusts. Hulls can be painted or decorated with decals to help identify them from other boats in the fleet but they must conform to the class rules.
The different classes vary by a wide margin. The smallest is the Footy, properly named because it is 12 inches long. The largest is
the J boat which can be 8 feet long and weigh 90 pounds. It comes to the pond on wheeled carriers and takes two to launch it. Our standard club boat is one of the most popular new designs; the Dragon Flite 95, which is 38 inches long, weighs 5.5 pounds and costs $500.
The AMYA and class secretaries sponsor regional and national regattas for most classes, and there are global organizations that sponsor world-class events. One popular class of boat is the International One Meter (IOM) which is a technical design and costs about $3,000. A recent Global Regatta of the IOM held in Croatia had 67 entries from 37 different countries and the winner was from Croatia. The Dragon Flite 95 is a new class but global regattas are being scheduled.
The club has two 95s for sale, one used (62) and one new. For specifics on these boats, email tomy1746@gmail.com.
PLAYERS OF THE GLEN JANICE RADCLIFF, HERONS GLEN
Bring your acting chops and your love of theatre for next year’s production. The Players of the Glen have been their usual busy selves reading through many scripts as possibilities for the spring 2025 season. This season’s selection will make you laugh while keeping you guessing. Keep tuned to The Heron , HGRD Newsletter, HG TV Channel, HG Google, and Herons Glen Facebook for more postings. Nah, we’re not going to spoil the surprise with the upcoming selection just yet.
Mark Your Calendar
Auditions: December 7 and 8, Card Room C, 2 to 4 p.m. Performances: March 14, 15, and 16, 2025
For more information contact Trish Perry, director, at (203) 232-8142 or trishzp@aol.com; or Janice Radcliff, stage manager, at (804) 334-9878 or jbr0818@comcast.net.
SOCIALITES GATHER AGAIN IN OCTOBER
PAM SCHEID, HERONS GLEN
It was good to be together again in the ballroom for the season opening luncheon. President Janet Kerns welcomed everyone back and introduced several new members. Vice President Karen Coburn announced that the Socialites would again sponsor the Angel Tree Christmas gifts for HG employees’ children. Kathleen Colletti described future luncheon menus, and Rhonda Parkinson announced upcoming programs. Table decorations Chairman Mary
Lou Pierozzi was complimented on the hurricane lanterns in the center beside a small pot of marigolds that were awarded to drawing winners.
Treasurer Bev Groft reported that the first member donation of the season to the All Souls church outreach program totaled $285. Other announcements included the Socialites bake sale during the craft fair with proceeds going to All Souls, and Secretary Bonnie Lucas reminded the group of the Jingle Tour sponsored by Alpha Gamma Nu.
Following the luncheon, program Chairman Rhonda Parkinson
presented Socialite member Karen Wills, a retired high school chemistry teacher, who represents the SSEP in the Glen. This group is perhaps most visible as it controls traffic during the Christmas Cart Parade. The Security Safety Emergency Program is a volunteer organization of HG residents that work with the Lee County sheriff’s office and the local fire department whenever it can be of assistance in the Glen. The SSEP also partnered with the sheriff’s office to raise funds to support its program to help keep kids off the streets. The HG SSEP raised $700. Karen also spoke of CERT
(Community Emergency Response Team) whose functions require special training and certification. She recognized fellow Socialites member Kathy Petrillo who is a certified CERT member.
The Socialites was founded over twenty years ago as a social club and a means for women in the Glen to get acquainted. Over the years programs and speakers were included to help members learn more about services and agencies in nearby communities. Although the Socialites is not a philanthropic organization, it has made donations to various service agencies.
Not all the programs are serious. Members look forward to the Christmas meeting and the performance by students from The North Fort Myers Academy of the Arts. The annual spring fashion show is also a fun meeting.
Socialites is open to every Herons Glen woman resident. It meets at 11 a.m. in the ballroom on the third Tuesday, October through May. Its annual dues are $15, and the cost of the meal is charged to the member’s house account.
KATHY PETRILLO AND KAREN WILLS
ALPHA DELTA MU IS OFF TO A GREAT START
CANDACE HUETTEMAN, HERONS GLEN
The sisters of Alpha Delta Mu Sorority (ADM) are off to a great start this season. The social calendar is full and the donations to our charities this year will be generous and plentiful as always. Our first donation of the season was to Blessings In A Backpack, a program created to help with weekend food insufficiency. Needy children will leave school each Friday with enough food to feed them for the weekend. We specifically targeted our donation to help the children of Littleton School. Alpha Delta Mu has plans to work at All Souls in support of its Outreach Program and to volunteer at the Harry Chapin Food Bank. Each November we give generously to the charities of the Veterans of The Glen (VOG) and this year will be no exception. Our financial strategies for the year are not complete. ADM realizes that it is you, the residents of Herons Glen, who enable our sorority by your donations of furniture, household goods, and home decor to help the veterans and other needy individuals in Lee County. Thank you.
Looking at our busy calendar: On October 6, we went to the Belle Theatre to see a production of Saturday Night Fever. Then on October 17, we held our annual Wine and Cheese Rush Party. We are looking forward to an afternoon matinee at the Broadway Palm Theatre where we will see Chicago on October 28. Finally, on October 30, the sisters of ADM will present a Merchant Marine flag to the VOG so they can hang it with the military flags that we see on stage during the VOG dance.
MARY PORTER, MAUREEN MCCARREN, TERRY ROSEN, RUTH POSTER, CANDACE HUETTEMAN, ELAIN QUILLIAM, CHERI BRANDT, JOY VENKER AND JOAN DARCY
Community Interests
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT … HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE HOA WEEKLY BULLETINS
FROM YOUR HOA
COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE
This listing highlights important articles covered in recent HOA Herons Glen Weekly Bulletins distributed by email to residents listed with the HOA Office. These issues affect every property owner, their renters, vendors, and guests.
The articles are intended to help residents better understand the actual requirements for our restricted community and may also include safety information. Reading about and understanding these issues could eliminate an escalation of problems that may result in potential fines.
October 18, 2024 – The Heron Online Magazine Debut in November (replaces hard copy newspaper), Links to HOA Online Forms, Board Minutes & Financials Online, Resident Resources – Blk Cable & Internet, Water, Sewer, Telephone, Trash/Recycling/Yard Waste, Irrigation
October 11, 2024 – Lee County Solid Waste, Report Solicitors & How to Protect Yourself When Hiring Contractors, Exterior Work Needs HOA Approval through the ARC or Grounds Committee, Golf Cart Battery Safety from SSEP
October 4, 2024 – Paying HOA Assessments, Holiday & Special Events Decorations Regulations
September 27, 2024 – Election of HOA Board Members, Century Link/Quantum Fiber Work in HG
September 13, 2024 – Nominating Committee Accepting Nominations for HOA Board, Herons Glen HOA Communications & Media
September 6, 2024 – Herons Glen HOA 2024/2025 Operating Budget Approved and Quarterly Assessments, Bicycle Helmet Safety from SSEP
Please keep this reference guide in a location that’s easy for you to find when needed.
Their wedding was planned, and the date set with their local Catholic church, but a scheduling snafu had the church doublebooked. They met with the other couple and agreed to move one wedding up to an earlier time and the other wedding back to a later time. A sigh of relief and they were back on track. The wedding went off without a hitch.
Skip worked at General Motors for 39 and a half years. He started working with computers on April 1, 1960 when they were huge towers kept in a special airconditioned room. Phyllis returned to work after her children were older and enjoyed being a secretary at the Detroit Medical Center for many years.
RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT –SKIP AND PHYLLIS BAILOR
SUE MCCOY, HERONS GLEN
It’s a love story for the ages! Phyllis and Skip met in high school on a blind date, dated for three years, and married at ages 19 and 21. That was 65 years ago (in 1959) and they never looked back.
This lovely couple both grew up in Lyndhurst, Ohio and attended the same grade and high schools. But it took a blind date to bring them together to meet their destiny. And what destiny it has been!
Skip and Phyllis had three wonderful children, two daughters and a son. They have unfortunately outlived their son and one daughter. These were perhaps the worst times in their marriage, but they got through them as a family and kept on. These days they are thankful for their surviving daughter and their four terrific grandchildren. The exciting news is that they have twin greatgrandbabies due in January.
When they retired, they became Glen snowbirds in 2004, and full-time residents in 2020. They love the Glen and have enjoyed
most of the activities offered here including golf, bocce, bingo, marbles, and pinochle. They also enjoy traveling and have visited all 50 states. They especially loved Hawaii. For their 50th anniversary they took the whole family on a cruise to the 50th state that was also celebrating its 50th anniversary as a state that year. Can you figure out where they went?
Both agree that being married for 65 years takes “a lot of effort.” Phyllis advises to just say “yes, dear” then do what you want. Skip laughs at that, and agrees, but adds more seriously that “whatever we’ve done, we’ve done together and that’s how you stay together.”
Congratulations Skip and Phyllis on 65 blessed years of marriage – a great achievement!
SKIP AND PHYLLIS BAILOR
ARE YOU PLANNING A PROJECT FOR YOUR PROPERTY?
FROM THE HGHOA ARC AND GROUNDS COMMITTEES
All residents of Herons Glen live in a deed-restricted community. Upon purchase, all owners have signed documents agreeing to the rules put in place by the Herons Glen Homeowner’s Association (HOA). As a result, you may encounter standards for your home and property here that are not applicable in other communities.
The HGHOA has two committees charged with assuring that properties are kept to the HOA standards.
• The Architectural Review Committee (ARC) ensures that future construction, reconstruction, and improvements are similar to existing construction. This includes making sure the applications for these projects are in compliance with HGHOA Architectural Standards and related information.
• The Grounds Committee ensures that installation of or alteration to lawns, landscaping, exterior yard decorations, fountains and flagpoles are done according to HOA standards and procedures.
WHAT PROJECTS NEED ARC APPROVAL?
The following list enumerates most of the projects that need ARC approval but is not totally inclusive. If in doubt, check the HOA website, call the HOA Office (239) 731-0322, or attend an ARC meeting.
• Painting or repainting of all exterior surfaces
• Installation of storm shutters
• Exterior screening and rescreening
• Lanai extension and lanai or front entry enclosures
• Any changes to all exterior doors, garage doors and screen doors
• Installation of garage screen
• Pool and/or spa installation
• Any type of solar panel work
• Changes to front yard light fixture and/or post and mailbox post
• Addition or changes to gutters and downspouts
• Replacement of windows
• Changes to driveway, walkway, roof, or walls
• Installation of whole home generators
WHAT PROJECTS NEED GROUNDS COMMITTEE APPROVAL?
The following list enumerates most of the projects that need Grounds Committee approval but is not totally inclusive. If in doubt, check the HOA website, call the HOA Office (239) 731-0322, or attend a Grounds Committee meeting.
• Replacement of all or a majority of shrubs in a landscape bed
• Installation of additional shrubs to satisfy a violation notice
• All modifications to size (enlargement or reduction) or design of existing landscape beds, installation of new landscape beds, and removal of existing landscape beds
• Landscape beds modified to include a decorative item that incorporates as part of its design the use of materials such as mulch, stone, or rock or any other type of materials
• Planting or removal of trees
• Installation of a free-standing flagpole
• Installation of fountain or water features located outside the front entry and outside the lanai
REQUESTING COMMITTEE
APPROVAL
For any of the projects listed above, the homeowner must fill out an ARC Application Form or a Grounds Request Form and submit it to the appropriate committee. The request must include a detailed plan showing the location and description of the work. Many ARC requests require submission of a sample, such as a paint chip, roof tile, or paver, while others may require a photo. The application form will specify if this is the case.
If you reside in the Fairways, Meadows, or Solana, you must have your proposed work approved by your sub-association before submitting it to the ARC or Grounds Committee.
Also, keep in mind that some projects, such as a lanai extension, may require both
ARC and Grounds approval. If in doubt, check the forms or call the HOA Office.
There is also a required Neighboring/Adjacent Property Owner Acknowledgement Form for any ARC projects that may require you to use your neighbor’s side of the property or encroach on their back property when potential damage may occur to your neighbor’s property. Homeowners having this type of work done must fill out this form and make reasonable attempts to get this form signed by the adjoining neighbors. (This form is not required for grounds projects.)
No work is permitted to start until the appropriate committee has reviewed and approved the request. Work that begins without approval may be subject to fines imposed by the HGHOA Board of Directors.
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
The HOA Office (239) 731-0322 and the ARC and Grounds Committee are available to answer your questions and provide clarification. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need more help.
Here are five questions to test your memory and common knowledge. Don’t peek until you’ve finished. Good luck!
1. What was the first month and year that the Ford Mustang was made available for sale?
2. What is the only Great Lake located entirely within the U. S. border?
3. In the movie The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, who shot Valance?
4. Who did Richard Nixon defeat in the 1968 presidential election?
5. Where was Mark Twain born?
TRIVIA CORNER
THE HISTORY OF NAMING HURRICANES
CANDACE HUETTEMAN,
HERONS GLEN
While we won’t forget the name Milton any time soon, I thought you, the reader, might be interested in learning the history of naming hurricanes.
In 1950, a formal practice for storm naming was developed by the U.S. National Hurricane Center. At that time, storms were named according to a phonetic alphabet (e.g., Able, Baker, Charlie) and the names used were the same for each hurricane season: in other words, the first hurricane of a season was always named “Able” the second “Baker” and so on.
In 1953, to avoid the repetitive use of names, the system was revised
Native Americans called these destructive storms” hurakons” after “a great spirit who commanded the east wind.” Spanish explorers adopted the word and then began giving hurricanes the names of patron saints on whose feast days the storms occurred. Then in the 1800s, hurricanes were identified by longitude and latitude, where the storms occurred and the places they hit.
so that storms would be given female names. This mimicked the habits of old naval meteorologists who named storms after their wives or girlfriends, much like ships at sea being named after women. In the late 19th century, Clement Wragge, a weatherman in Australia, was the first person to give a tropical storm a female name.
In 1979, the system was revised again to include both female and male names. Today, naming hurricanes is the responsibility of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), which makes up lists of names that are set in advance. There are six alphabetical
lists of names and they are rotated every six years. Some revisions, when necessary, can be made to the lists. For example, there are some names that you may never hear again! Whenever a hurricane has a major impact, the country affected by the storm can request that the name be “retired.” This, of course, must be approved by the WMO. And what name do you think is the one most recently retired? Ian, of course. Ian caused more than 150 fatalities and over $112 billion in damage. It is currently the costliest hurricane in Florida’s history and the third costliest in the U.S.
Have you ever heard of a hurricane starting with the letter Q, U, X, Y, or Z? Certainly not, because there are not enough Spanish, French or English names beginning with these letters. Therefore, they do not make any of the WMO’s six lists of hurricane names. The WMO doesn’t only name hurricanes that occur off the shores of North America, they maintain lists for all areas affected by tropical cyclones. Let’s hope we don’t hear another name from the list this season. November 30, the end of the hurricane season, can’t come soon enough!
NOVEMBER 5, ELECTION
DAY 2024
CANDACE HUETTEMAN, HERONS GLEN
Why November 5? Why not another day in another month? Back on January 7, 1789, the electors were chosen for the first U.S. presidential election. George Washington was then elected president on February 4. Over half a century later, on January 23, 1845, the first Tuesday following the first Monday in November was designated Election Day for future presidential elections. Back then, the U.S. was more of an agricultural society. Therefore, November was considered a
good time for elections because the busy harvest season was coming to an end. Many country folks had to travel a long way to get to a polling station, so it made sense to hold elections on a Tuesday. Tuesday did not conflict with church attendance and religious holidays.
Here in Herons Glen, I hope that pruning your plants, picking avocados from your back yard tree, or weeding your garden did not keep you from voting this past November 5.
DENISE JOHNSON, HERONS GLEN
THE OCTOBER ISSUE OF THE HERON CONTAINED AN ARTICLE “FALLEN TREE ART.” OUR FALLEN TREE HAS HAD A MAKEOVER! THANK YOU TO THE ANONYMOUS TREE ART RESIDENT(S) FOR CONTINUING TO MAKE US SMILE.
ARE YOU KIDDING ME?
JACK NELSON, HERONS GLEN
One of my favorite pastimes was airline travel, which afforded many memories, both fond and surprising. My favorite airline was US Airways because I lived in the Philadelphia area, and Philly was a hub for the airline. This meant that most of my flights were nonstop, and, as you know, not having to make a connecting flight is a blessing. I was a frequent flyer, which gave me many perks, including being upgraded to first class if space was available. Happily, I was booted up to first class on numerous flights during my career as an air traveler.
On one trip in the mid-1990s, I was on my way from Philly to Pensacola, with a connecting flight in Charlotte. While waiting to board my flight to Pensacola, I gave my name to the gate agent to be put on the upgrade list. I was at the top of the list, and voila! I was upgraded to the front row, a window seat, which meant I would be first to be served lunch, drinks, whatever.
As I strapped in, a young lady, probably in her early twenties, sat next to me. She was gorgeous! And friendly! Her name was Lisa. We struck up a conversation immediately. We were both imbibing gin and tonics, and by the time we backed up from the gate, we had consumed two drinks, and we were already feeling giddy. I
was falling in love with her! After two drinks, age difference meant nothing to me. But realistically, she was like a daughter to me.
Halfway through the flight, we were over the Atlanta area at 34,000 feet, and by this time, we knew all about our family histories, our likes and dislikes, and favorite everything: colors, cars, movies, ad infinitum. After we deplaned, we walked together to the baggage claim area where I met her mother, a truly delightful lady. And Lisa lit a cigarette! I was totally surprised. She noticed my reaction, and promptly told me that she was trying to quit. The three of us parted company, but not before we hugged. What a delightful experience.
My next excursion was a nonstop flight from Philly to Seattle, a five-hour ride on US Airways. Accompanying me was my daughter. We were upgraded to first class, front row, and for such a long flight, that was a most welcome relief. Our plane was a Boeing-757, my favorite, and a favorite of many pilots as well.
When we got in line on the jetway, we noticed a lady with her daughter just in front of us leading a pig on a leash! Are you kidding me? The animal was full-grown and must have weighed at least 300 pounds! Needless to say, my daughter and I were astounded. And to add to our surprise, the
ladies and their pet porker were assigned seats directly across the aisle from us. As we boarded, I told a lady flight attendant how unreal it was having a full-grown pig on board. She told me they were livid about the situation, and that the captain had to contact company headquarters to get approval before departure. They gave their thumbs up. How lenient they were.
So, there we were, cruising at 36,000 feet with a monster pig lying on the floor against the bulkhead. It was completely covered with a blanket, which was intended to keep it quiet. Fortunately, it worked. To my surprise, the animal slept through the entire flight.
As we deplaned in Seattle, the pet pig owners were instructed to wait for all the other passengers to leave first. Later, my daughter and I learned that the pig became disorderly and caused quite a ruckus while leaving the plane. So, it was a wise decision to make the porker wait for others.
The next day, The Philadelphia Daily News published their lead article on the front page about the pig flight, with a large cartoon at the top of the page showing a pig with a big smile on its face riding on top of a US Airways plane. It was hilarious, but I’m sure those lady flight attendants weren’t smiling.
REDUCING HOLIDAY WASTE
LINDA LYNCH, HERONS GLEN
It’s often called the “most wonderful time of the year” – but it’s also become one of the most wasteful celebrations.
Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa, the list of waste includes wrapping paper, gift returns, food waste, decorations, etc.
How much waste? According to the EPA, American household waste increases by more than 25 percent between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. This translates into an additional 1 million tons of refuse each week.
Of course, the Lee County Solid Waste Department and their partner, Waste Pro, will whisk it all away, but small changes can yield a reduction of trash this holiday season. With this in mind, here are some helpful suggestions pulled from the Internet to reduce your holiday waste. Gifts
• Choose items of value, purpose, and meaning, not those destined for a yard sale.
• Focus on the experience by gifting event tickets, museum memberships, gift certificates, or your time and talents.
• Open a savings account or make a donation to a favorite charity in a recipient’s name.
• Give home-baked goodies in reusable containers like baskets, tins, or jars.
• Use a reusable cloth bag for your purchases and avoid store bags altogether.
Gift Wrap
• Reuse packing and shipping materials such as foam peanuts.
• Save ribbons, bows, boxes, gift bags, and décor for the next holiday, and put them where you’ll remember to reuse them.
Celebrations
• Use Energy Star energy-efficient lighting, such as LED holiday lights and unplug or turn off holiday decorations when not in use or use timers.
• Recycle your aluminum pans that are used for cooking holiday meals.
• When possible, eliminate the use of disposable plates, cups, napkins and silverware, or buy items that can be recycled or are made with recycled content.
• At gatherings, have clearly marked recycling containers available for bottles and cans.
• Send leftovers home with guests by having reusable storage containers available.
• Freeze leftovers to be enjoyed at a later time.
Recycle Or Reuse
• If you can’t reuse it, remember to put as much as possible in your curbside recycling – paper, cards, boxes.
• Metallic cards, envelopes, wrapping paper, and ribbons are not recyclable as paper.
• Live trees, wreaths or boughs (minus any decorations) can be put out with yard waste.
• Foam peanuts can be recycled at local shipping outlets (like UPS).
• Plastic shopping bags can be recycled at local grocery stores.
• Donate unneeded items rather than throwing them away.
The holidays are a wonderful time of year for spending quality time with family and friends. With a little forethought, holidays can also be made more environmentally friendly. And the careful use habits you cultivate during the holiday season will serve you throughout the rest of the year as well. Happy holidays!
Sports
BOWLING
MIKE STROPES, HERONS GLEN
Herons Glen Mixed Bowling League commenced matches on Tuesday, October 1 at Bowlero Coral lanes in Cape Coral. There are 16 four-person
teams competing, of which one is a “bye” team. If you are interested in becoming a member of the league, send an email to HeronsGlenBowling@ gmail.com stating if your preference to bowl either fulltime on a team or as a substitute bowler that
fills in for fulltime bowlers that are absent. Plus, also include your contact information. Here’s the current bowling league statistics.
Week 2 - October 15,
LADY NINERS HOST KISS EVENT
DENISE JOHNSON, HERONS GLEN
The Herons Glen (HG) Lady Niners hosted their annual KISS (keep it simple summer) event on Wednesday, October 23. The HG 9-Hole League is a member of Lee County Council of Ladies’ Nine Hole Golf Association (LCCLNHGA) of which there are 25 clubs. KISS events start in May of each year and end around the first of November; there is usually a theme for each event. Our theme this year was Halloween.
We had 31 players from six Lee County golf courses: Hideaway, Myerlee, Colonial, Hunters Run, Legends and Del Tura. Registration started at 8 a.m. with the ladies picking up morning goodie bags and coffee. There were three special trick or treat holes:
TEEING OFF WITH OVEN MITTS ON HOLE 11
1. Hole 11 – Everyone had to tee off wearing oven mitts.
2. Hole 14 – Drive over the water and you win treats; drive in the water and you receive a new ball.
3. Hole 17 – Agatha’s Snake Stew; draw a green snake from the cauldron and the ladies get a mulligan; draw a black snake from a cauldron and the ladies get to tee off from the 200-yard marker.
After playing a fun nine holes of golf, we gathered in the Formal Dining Room for a delicious lunch of soups, salad bar and a Halloween cake for dessert. Thanks to our chef, our Food and Beverage Director Janine, and the restaurant staff.
JOYCE HAIST AND KATHLEEN COLLETTI
A big thank you goes to Carol Ross for organizing this event and the KISS committee for their great ideas and table decorations. We also would like to thank the Pro Shop staff (Bruce, Mike, Linda, and our rangers) for their assistance in making this a great golfing event.
We look forward to hosting another great KISS event next year.
April, 1964
Huron
John Wayne
Hubert Humphrey
Florida, Missouri
Trivia Answers
TRIVIA CORNER
EVAN SLATER WITH CAULDRON DIVING FOR SNAKES ON HOLE 17
FRED GIGNAC AND CHUCK MILLER HANDING OUT BALLS OR TREATS ON HOLE 14
Photos by Dan Lim
OFFICIAL SOURCES FOR INFORMATION
Herons Glen Golf and Country Club website: http://hggcc.com
HERONS GLEN
http://hggcc.com
RESOURCE HUB
Herons Glen Homeowners Association website: http://heronsglenhoa.org
Herons Glen Recreation District website: https://heronsglencc.com
Herons Glen Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/HeronsGlen
HOA weekly bulletin emails and online: http://www.hggcc.com/hghoa/files/office_news.html
HGRD weekly newsletter emails and online: https://heronsglencc.com/group/pages/communications
The Heron newspaper online: http://hggcc.com/hghoa/files/newspaper.htm
Community TV Channels 901 and 902
NEED TRANSPORTATION?
The following is a list of volunteers that will be taking calls for transportation assistance.
Note: This doesn’t include rides to the airport
Kathleen Colletti (239) 822-1573
Bruce Johnson (716) 472-3860
Donna Johnson (716) 450-7740
Polly Middleton (703) 407-6381
Jim Noffsinger (270) 881-7640
Mike Zarella (541) 292-2714
We are always looking for volunteers. If you are interested, please contact Jack Cotter at (860) 490-2183.
The Heron newspaper is going through some changes, but these changes are exciting and are bringing about new opportunities! 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!