APRIL 2020VOL. 18 NO. 4 Community web site: http://hggcc.com Community Channel: Channel 98 on TV

Artist Group on page 3

Alpha Gamma Nu 14th Home Tour Success on page 3

HOA Telecommunications on page 4

By Joan White, Herons GlenPhotos by Roger Lancaster, Herons Glen On Sunday, March 8, the Herons Glen Artist Group held their 22nd annual juried Fine Art Show and Sale. The art show committee together with the maintenance crew transformed the ballroom into one large art gallery, once more. A t 6 : 3 0 a . m . , 2 9 participants plus many of our members and spouses set up the displays of their creative efforts. At 8 a.m. sharp, our guest judge, Fort Myers artist Tracy Cullimore with assistance, selected winners from five categories of artwork media.

Artist Group

Yearning to Breathe Free by Anne Nelson

Driven to Abstraction by Marni Young

Breakfast by Roger Lancaster

By Susan Oliver, Herons Glen T h e 1 4 t h A n n u a l Herons Glen Home Tour sponsored by Alpha Gamma Nu chapter of Beta Sigma Phi sorority was held on Sunday, Feb. 23. Six unique homes on the tour were: “Al’s Man Cave” presented by Al Sutherland and Pat Roth, “Lakeside in the Glen” presented by Roger and Rene M’Sadoques, “A

By Anita Sharninghouse, Herons Glen Although we’ve been forced to slow down due to COVID-19, there are some residents, employees, and contractors who don’t believe that speed limits are important or stop signs are meant for them. Recently one resident was pushed off the road while on his golf cart by a speeding car. Another resident recently had their driver’s side mirror on his parked car removed by a passing vehicle. It was extremely lucky someone wasn’t walking into the road beside their car or we would have had a fatality. At the corner of Palo Duro, Herons Glen Boulevard, and Via La Quinta, numerous vehicles are continually seen ignoring the stop signs. A walker recently reported being brushed with a car that couldn’t wait to run the stop signs. What can you do besides obey the speed limits yourself whether you are driving a car, riding a bike or driving a golf cart? You can call the sheriff’s office with as much information as possible identifying the dangerous driver who is breaking a law. You can assure you don’t allow unauthorized drivers to operate your golf cart. You can stop your bicycle at stop signs. You can count to 10 or higher when you feel rage enveloping you when you see someone going slower than you want to drive. The HOA and the HGRD are doing what is in their power to inform all drivers to obey the laws. You can help by following the laws. We love our neighbors, visitors and pets. Please slow down and drive safely! The speed limit on Herons Glen Boulevard is 26 mph. The speed limit on all other streets is 16 mph. Stop signs mean stop!

Safety In The Glen

The winners are: Best in Show: Marni Young – Driven to Abstraction, mixed media Watercolors: First Place: Tootie Stark – Fishing Shacks; Second Place: Shirley Schmidt – Floating on a Breeze; Third Place: Kathleen Lynch – Charlotte Rose-Birds

By Karen and Jim Mars, Herons Glen In early 2018 the HOA Board established the Telecommunications Broadband Services (TBS) Committee to evaluate the broadband needs of the entire community. The committee began holding open meetings in early April of 2018 and selected Keith Dresch as chair. One of the first undertakings of the committee was to develop two questionnaires. One questionnaire was distributed to the residents to determine private residential needs for broadband services to operate TV, Internet, and home automation such as Google, Alexa or other services. Seven hundred seven individual homes responded to the resident questionnaire. The second questionnaire was provided to the management of both the HGRD and the HOA to determine needs for broadband to operate public community-wide services such as TV, the irrigation system, the climate control system and security cameras. Next, a new TBS website was developed for the HOA. In an effort to keep our residents informed of progress throughout the process, the committee requested the webmasters create a dedicated TBS portion of the Herons Glen website. The TBS portion can be reached from the top drop-down menu under

“Related Sites” or by going directly to http://hggcc.com/related_sites/tbs/files/tbs_index.htm. This site contains notes from the meetings and other items of interest. The committee and the HOA Board also agreed early on that professional help would be employed to handle the negotiations of the agreement and the legal issues. Over the summer and fall of 2018, the committee held public meetings to evaluate and vet three consulting firms. In November 2018, the committee recommended and the HOA Board authorized the hiring of Converged Services Incorporated (CSI) as the firm to conduct a potential provider search, analyze the responses and assist in agreement negotiations. This firm is experienced in the telecommunications industry. CSI arranged for and scheduled presentations during open committee meetings from the five service providers (Broadstar, Comcast, Blue Stream, Hotwire and Century Link) who expressed an interest in providing services to our community. These presentations took place over the next few months and the providers discussed such things as fiber vs. copper for the backbone and from the backbone to the home,

HOA Telecommunications Broadband Services Committee Update

Labor of Love” presented by Debra and Zenon Gluszczak, “Flora and Fauna” presented by Jeanne Winans and Roy Brandt, “The Garden of Joy” presented by Joy Venker, and “Our Blue Heaven” presented by Patrick Sanders and Shari Critchley. Exceeding the high demand of the past, all 300

Acrylics and Oils: First Place: Tom Rogers – Lake Aldred; Second Place: Joan White – Cypress Lake; Third Place: Tootie Stark – Stay on the Trail

Bonnie Lucas and Barbara Evans Patty Panek

Alpha Gamma Nu 14th Home Tour Success

Page 2, Herons Glen

Editorial Staff VolunteersPhotos by Dick Muller

Pam Scheid - Editor

Karen Jessop - Editor

Linda Lynch - Editor

Anita SharninghouseNewspaper Coordinator

The HOA Communications Committee serves as the supervisory body for The Heron per Article IX of our by-laws.

Peter Overs is the committee liasion from the HOA Board of Directors.

The Heron Editorial Policy is on fi le in the HOA offi ce.Articles for The Heron may be dropped off or mailed to

The HOA Offi ce, 2250 Avenida Del Vera or emailed to hgnewspaper@gmail.com

Rick and Pat ScharfDelivery Coordinators

Article Deadlines For The Heron

Articles should be sent toHGNewspaper@gmail.com

May 2020 Sunday, April 19June 2020 Saturday, May 16

Community NewsComing SoonApril 16 TAT 2 RestaurantApril 20 Bloodmobile Parking LotApril 23 Tim and Rosanne RestaurantApril 25 End of Season BallroomApril 26 Paddock Party BallroomApril 30 Jay Smith RestaurantMay 2 Derby Day BallroomMay 7 Bubba Upchurch LoungeMay 14 Sellouts LoungeMay 21 Smalltown LoungeMay 25 Memorial DayMay 28 TAT 2 Lounge

WelcomeLeonor GomezLesley and Nicholas HallCindy and Douglas KornetzkeJeanne and Timothy McKennaConnie and Paul RubelAnnette and John SlocumPatricia and Michael Sperduti

In MemoriamMary LynchCharlie MartinSuzy MillerGerry Trueblood

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 April 14 To May All committee meetings are in HOA Conference Room unless noted otherwise. April 14 Architectural Review Committee, 9 a.m.April 15 Board Meeting, 5 p.m. April 16 Activities Committee, 1 p.m.April 21 Communications Committee, 10:30 a.m.April 23 Finance Committee, 2 p.m.April 24 Security, Safety, and Emergency Preparedness, 8:30 a.m.April 28 Architectural Review Committee, 9 a.m.May 5 Board Workshop, 1 p.m.May 12 Architectural Review Committee, 9 a.m.May 13 Board Meeting, 5 p.m.May 14 Grounds Committee, 2 p.m.May 19 Communications Committee, 10:30 a.m.May 22 Security, Safety, and Emergency Preparedness, 10 a.m.May 26 Architectural Review Committee, 9 a.m.May 28 Finance Committee, 2 p.m.Calendar Of HGRD Meetings April 13 To May All meetings are in Card Room C unless noted otherwise. April 13 Long Range Planning Committee, 9:30 a.m.April 20 Long Range Planning Committee, 9:30 a.m.April 20 Facilities and Amenities Committee, 2:30 p.m.April 27 Finance Committee, 9:30 a.m.April 7 Board Workshop, 2 p.m.April 29 Board of Supervisors Meeting, 2 p.m. May 4 Resident Events, Activities Room “A, ” 2 p.m.May 18 Board Workshop, 2 p.m.May 20 Board of Supervisors Meeting, 2 p.m.

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By Linda Lynch, Herons Glen I rv ( I rwin) Dol iner has been a Herons Glen resident since 1998 and has been teaching pottery classes here for most of those years. I r v w o r k e d i n communications in the military and afterwards went to work for Western Electric (the manufacturer of the equipment he used in the military) and eventually AT&T. While working, the company paid for him to attain a bachelor’s and a master’s degree, and he published a number of papers related to mathematics. He also worked at the famous New Jersey Bell Labs for a couple of years. When AT&T offered Irv early retirement, the incentives were too great to turn down. Irv and his wife Esta then moved to Three Oaks. One day, Irv saw a TV show in which a character was making pottery. He mentioned to Esta that it looked interesting, and she wisely suggested that he look around for a class to explore it. He found the Cape Coral Arts Studio and took pottery classes there for four to five years. Before long, Irv had purchased his own potter’s wheel to be able to throw clay projects at home. Meanwhile, close friends at Three Oaks moved to Herons Glen, and when Irv and Esta visited, they liked what they saw here. They ended up purchasing the house next door to their friends. Irv brought his wheel to Herons Glen, but it sat in his garage, so he donated it and began offering pottery

classes. He teaches students to make pottery items using handbuilding techniques (with and without forms). Handbuilding is an ancient pottery-making technique that involves creating forms without a pottery wheel, using the hands, fingers, and simple tools. Irv can guide you in making a pinch, slab or coil pot. For students looking for more challenge, Irv teaches students to throw a pot using the wheel. Irv is also knowledgeable about different types of glazes and how to use them to bring clay items to life. In over 20 years of teaching, Irv has encountered Herons Glen residents interested in conventional pottery techniques but also some who have tried their hand at sculpting. His wife even took classes with him for several years. During his pottery career, Irv has worked freehand and with the wheel and has experimented with different glazing techniques, including the Japanese-inspired raku. He has participated in a few shows and has sold pieces, but has also held onto a number of favorite items and has given many away. He estimates he’s made 300 to 400 pieces over the past 20 or so years and says with a grin that he is no longer welcome to bring them home. Irv is also a music enthusiast. He was the original Doctor DooWop DJ on Punta Gorda radio early on during his retirement. He also participated, with his wife, in the Herons Glen Chorus and currently sings in a barbershop chorus and quartet. In his free time, he plays a mean hand of poker. If you are interested in exploring pottery-making as a hobby, Irv can be found in Activities Room B on Monday from 1 to 4 p.m. You can reach him at (239) 567-0215 or by email at hg-potter@embarqmail.com. As we often hear around the Glen, if you’re bored while here, it’s your own fault. And whether you lean towards the arts or the sciences, or mathematics, if you’re looking for something new, maybe pottery is your thing!

From Math To Pottery

Irv Doliner

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Herons Glen, Page 3

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tickets were sold within six hours. As a thank you for the continued support of the home tour, those who purchased tickets were entered in a chance to win a beautiful gift basket. Congratulations to the winner Patty Panek. A Home Tour Appreciation Luncheon was held on March 12 at the Nest’s private dining room. Bonnie Lucas, president of Alpha Gamma Nu, thanked the homeowners for allowing their homes to be included in the tour, to all the sisters who worked together to make the tour happen, and to all the Herons Glen residents who participated. Bonnie presented a donation to Barbara Evans, chief development officer of the Harry Chapin Food Bank in Fort Myers. Evans extended her thanks for the donation and gave a brief history of the Harry Chapin Food Bank. This year’s donation is going to the Care and Share Senior Feeding Program. This program supplements the diets of more than 2,300 low-income seniors in Lee, Collier and Charlotte counties with nutritious, easy-to-prepare food. Eligible seniors age 60 and over receive kits containing canned fruits and vegetables, canned protein, grains, cereal, and other food each month. She stated that every dollar donated would provide $8 worth of food for the needy through their operations and was pleased to announce we have received a matching grant which doubles our donation. While the Harry Chapin Food Bank is the major recipient of the sorority’s fundraising other charities receiving

Barbara Evans, Shari Critchley, Joy Venker, Al Sutherland and Jeanne Winans

Alpha Gamma Nu 14th Home Tour Success from page 1 donations from the proceeds of our home tour include The American Heart Association, The ALS WALK, The American Cancer Society Breast Cancer Walk, Pretty in Pink, Immokalee Fair Housing and Partners in Breast Cancer. The resident participants in the home tour, were delighted to learn that their efforts in opening their homes provided great food assistance to others in need. In order to continue our donations, we request your support for our annual home tour. Anyone interested in having their home included in the 15th Annual Home Tour in 2021, please contact Mary Ann Simpson.

Pen/Pencil/Ink: First Place: Carol Commodore – Peaceful Swan; Second Place: Jack Nelson – Boy Meets Butterfly; Third Place: Bonnie Bickel – Peace and Harmony Mixed Media: First Place: Anne Nelson – Yearning to Breathe Free; Second Place: Peggy Parker – The Great Dane; Third Place: Marsha Ohlgart – Royal Bouquet Photography: First Place: Roger Lancaster – Breakfast; Second Place: Sandee Harraden – Everglade; Third Place: Lin McAllister – Tears Sculpture: First Place: Carol Commodore – Elegant Avis Honorable Mentions: Connie Thorpe, watercolor – Red Beauties; Dee Fugere, watercolor – Morning Fly; Erliss Pung, acrylic painting – Sunny; Jerry Kulyk, acrylic painting – Global Warming, Art Williams, watercolor painting – Enchanted Forest Thank you to all the wonderful viewers who came to our show to enjoy and buy our art while listening to the lilting piano tunes of Pat Bussan Sam. Perhaps, you also enjoyed some tasty ice cream.

Lake Aldred by Tom Rogers

Fishing Shacks by Tootie Stark

Peaceful Swan by Carol Commodore

Artist Group from page 1

Page 4, Herons GlenPage 4

Community Interests on page 5

Community Interests

how they would address future technologies, customer support, the equipment currently used at the headend and their vision as to the best way to provide our community with video and Internet so that both our private residential and public area needs are met. The public area needs identifi ed in the questionnaire included: Cameras (HOA and HGRD), TVs (HOA and HGRD), VoIP, Thor Warning System, Davis Weather Link Control System, golf course irrigation, golf course maintenance building, HGRD supervisors office, HGRD and HOA offices, time clocks, and wireless WiFI usage. Future requirements may include fi tness center FOB system, fi tness center TVs, fi tness center cameras, fi tness center WiFI, additional kitchen cameras, additional clubhouse cameras, ballroom sound room and new HGRD storage building. Private residential needs identified in the questionnaire included: Reliable video service with up-to-date features and increased bandwidth to accommodate the increasing use of WiFi in our homes. The committee used the information from the questionnaires, the provider presentations, visits to potential providers during which they reviewed the company’s customer service operations and headend facilities and calls to other communities to assist in their evaluation prior to their recommendation to the HOA Board. The committee felt Blue Stream best met the combined private residential and public area needs of the community. After further review by the HOA attorney, the HOA Board approved and signed the agreement at their February 2020 meeting. For the public areas the new agreement provides:• Digital Core TV service and music channels for – clubhouse (all rooms and offi ces), pro shop, restaurant, lounge, fi tness center, golf course maintenance and guardhouse.• Internet services of up to 1Gbps symmetrical for – clubhouse (all rooms and offi ces), public WiFi for clubhouse, pro shop, restaurant, lounge, billiard room, fi tness center, golf course maintenance building and cart barn, golf course and irrigation pump houses, irrigation controllers, golf course weather alert stations, tennis and surrounding courts and community security camera system • Service to 15 more new homes once the community has been built out. For private residential properties, the new agreement provides:

HOA Telecommunications from page 1 • Digital Core + Digital Plus program package. 140 channels with set-top box or Smart TV. More channels available for rental purchase. Around 75 to 80 channels out of the wall non-Smart TV. • 50 music channels.• On-demand programming. • Direct access to streaming services such as – Amazon, Netfl ix, Hulu and others.• Two community TV channels. • Android based set-top boxes and two voice controlled remotes.• Cloud DVR recording storage for up to 200 hours.• “Start Over” command if you miss the start of your show. • “Catch Up” command allows you to go back 72 hours to watch a show.• 4K TV compatibility.• Internet speeds 300 Mbps symmetrical, 400 Mbps beginning of third year, 500 Mbps beginning of fi fth year.• Video and Internet services delivered to the community via new fiber-optic cable backbone – no more Dish Network satellite dishes pixelating on overcast days.• Fiber from the backbone to the home – not coax.• All new equipment – no outdated or refurbished Broadstar equipment. • Option to go wireless or hardwired in your home. • “Blue2Go” – downloadable app for your Ipad, smartphone, laptop or Smart TV. This allows you to watch your Blue Stream programming (minus local channels) anywhere, anytime you have an Internet connection. • In-home training during installation.• Phone service is not part of the bulk agreement but is available from Blue Stream on an individual retail plan.• Improved Customer Service Department, added levels for both video and Internet services. • Blue Stream has a system “Network Operations Center” (NOC) that monitors our system for problems. CSI will continue to assist the committee and the Board by attending community presentations, answering resident questions throughout the different phases of the project and handling agreement legal issues. The HOA has engaged a lawyer that specializes in telecommunications agreements for communities. She is on retainer for the length of the agreement. They also have a project management fi rm on board to work with Blue Stream during the design and installation phases to assure Blue Stream is meeting agreement terms. The new system is projected to break ground this fall and to be operational by June 1, 2021, at the expiration of our Broadstar contract.

By Pat Stuchly, Herons Glen The HOA Activities Committee is planning on hosting an Ice Cream Social on April 26 at 6 p.m. at the gazebo. Hopefully the c ommunity will be off of quarantine and ready to mingle. A little secret: Sonny will be entertaining us with his wonderful accordion music. Come hear him share his wonderful music with all the friends of the Glen.

Save The Date

Getting Ready For Your Trip BackBy Sarah Schoon, Herons Glen If you are a part-time resident in Herons Glen, when you are preparing to leave for the season, you probably have a long list of tasks to do to keep your home maintained in your absence. One of the most important things to do that is relatively easy is to let the administration offi ce know of your change of address from winter to summer home, and the name of the neighbor watching your house who has access for emergencies. The administrative offi ce has an exhaustive list for preparing your home before your departure. The web address is: http://www.hggcc.com/hoas/hghoa/pdfs/community_info/closing_home.pdf. Otherwise, they have printed copies at the HOA office. (Please note that there are underscores between community and information; and closing and home.) You can decide if the suggestions within it will work for you, but some are not just good ideas, they are things you must do. One example is taking outdoor furniture, pots, and decorations inside to a protected area, not left in your lanai or elsewhere outside. Think of Dorothy’s house in The Wizard of Oz. Your pots and furniture could quickly become airborne in times of extreme wind and go fl ying through a neighbor’s window. Homeowners, who are full-time residents, may want your potted plants if you wish to get rid of them before leaving. Sending a message via the Google group for Herons Glen might be the best way to do this. Getting contact names and number for utilities and local Herons Glen offi ces is a great idea. Make sure, too, that you have the phone number and address of the resident who has a key to your house. It might save you from some anxious moments after you have left for the season. What publications do you need to stop? Have you notifi ed the post offi ce of your change of address? Your appliances may need some attention to prepare them for your absence, and don’t forget to put your defenses in place for keeping bugs away, and to have security measures to keep your home safe from intruders. Many homeowners are adding new technological devices to give them peace of mind for monitoring their homes from afar. The easiest security measure is to lock your windows and doors. If possible, don’t have overgrown plants obscuring windows or doors. Florida is a very humid place in the summer months. As you are cleaning appliances and bathrooms, you might want to take some special measures to prevent mildew such as adding a cup of bleach to the toilet bowl water and covering the bowl with plastic wrap, and cleaning the shower and sink with bleach. Emptying your pantry of everything but canned items is suggested on the list. You could put sugar, fl our, and dry mixes in the refrigerator, and set it to a warmer temperature. Give your air conditioner a little love before leaving by changing the filter. Even if it is set at a warmer temperature, it will be working hard for you. Safe travels to all who are heading elsewhere for the summer. We will look forward to seeing you when you return.

Tech Talk – The Ins, Outs And Whys Of Blogs And BloggingBy Vivian Manning, Herons Glen Tech Talk gets more questions! If you have a question that Tech Talk may be able to help with, please email your question to hgnewspaper@gmail.com and we’ll do our best to address it. Recently Tech Talk received a question about “Blogs” (originally called “Web Log” – now shortened to “Blog”): What they are; how to fi nd them; how to subscribe to them, and how to read them. Blogs can be described as an equivalent of podcasts (the subject of the last Tech Talk column), but written, rather than spoken information. Blogs, like podcasts, are a free (generally) Internet service that allows you to read information about subjects of interest to you. At their simplest, blogs are online journal websites: The blog writer posts articles to their journal and the blog website arranges the articles in reverse chronological order, with the most recent article placed at the top of the blog page – each new post pushes older posts down the webpage. The blog will usually be indexed and key-worded, allowing readers to easily search all posts, no matter how old. For an example of a simple blog, visit: https://clutterfreenow.com/blog/. Some blogs allow for comments on each post, where readers can voice their views on the information contained in the blog post. You may immediately see a problem: It’s unlikely you’ll want to read just one blog. You may have many interests, or you may wish to read many different blogs about one interest: That would mean regular visits to many different blog websites, not knowing whether a new item has been posted since your last visit. Some bloggers post daily, some weekly, some irregularly. Visiting each blog website can result in a massive waste of precious time. Hence, blogs may be “subscribed” to, for free, allowing delivery of new posts to either your blog reader of choice (more on that in a minute), or to your email. I prefer blog reader software to keep my email inbox from being fl ooded by blog posts.

There are a number of free and paid blog reader software packages that may be installed on your computer or mobile device to organize subscribed blogs (I like to organize my blog subscriptions by subject matter, such as cooking, photography, tech) and to help you keep on top of new posts. My blog reader of choice is the free version of Feedly, but there are many other blog readers that may work better for you. A list of current readers can be found here: https://blog.elink.io/rss-reader-apps/, along with more information about how they work. Each blog reader will have a help fi le to assist with its setup. If you decide to go with a blog reader, each time you open it, the reader will automatically check each blog subscription and pull in new posts. A blog reader will also help you discover blogs that might be of interest to you. Use its built-in search feature and key words that describe your interests. Subscribe to the blogs that appear in the search results and organize your subscriptions in a way that works for you. If you fi nd that any subscribed blog doesn’t interest you after reading a few posts, just unsubscribe. For more information, see: https://www.wpbeginner.com/beginners-guide/what-is-a-blog-and-how-is-it-different-from-a-website-explained/. Once you’ve discovered the world of reading other writers’ blogs, and how much information is available to you for free, you may fi nd that you want to become a blogger yourself and share your interests and expertise with others. Setting up your own blog can be done for free (but not always – cost depends on your choices). A useful resource setting out how to start your own blog can be found here: https://www.bloggingbasics101.com/how-do-i-start-a-blog/ (Note: This article has a specifi c point of view about various services but is still a good starting point for further research). As with podcasts, the world of blogs, either reading or writing your own, holds endless possibilities for interests: cooking, sports, music, knitting, gardening, movies, politics, religion, parenting and grandparenting, senior interests. You name it, at least one blogger will already be writing about it!

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Herons Glen, Page 5

Community Interests from page 4

Snowbirds! on page 6

Life In The Glen During The 2020 Global PandemicBy Pam Scheid, Herons Glen “These are the times that try men’s souls …” (Thomas Paine) Since the Revolutionary War, Americans have experienced a number of “trying times,” which failed to corrupt our souls or dampen the Amer ican sp i r i t . Th is particular American crisis is unique in that every citizen in the homeland is called upon to do his or her share to personally help combat the spread of COVID-19. Residents, administrators, and staff in Herons Glen have heeded the call by cancelling community activities and other social gatherings, complying with “social distancing,” and basically “sheltering in place.”

However, as frustrated and bored we may become under these conditions, Glenners should realize how extremely fortunate we are. Unlike those living in high rises or in cold, rainy climates, we can leave our houses. Our weather is ideal for solitary walks and sidewalk chats with friends while keeping a 6-foot distance. Bicyclers are free to ride on our streets. Evening cart cruises around the community are popular and a chance to wave to neighbors at driveway parties where distancing rules are also observed. We are also fortunate to have a golf course and practice range open to residents, who abide by the one person per cart rule for league play. Since public restaurants are closed, we are especially fortunate to have our own. Management and staff should be praised and supported for their innovative ways to continue offering us this pleasant and precious amenity. Taking advantage of takeout from the Nest is good for our restaurant and good for

us who are tiring of our own cooking. (Leaving a little extra in the tip jar is an additional way to express our appreciation.) We are indeed fortunate to be living in the Glen during this crisis. While we may long for life to return to normal, we can hardly complain of hardships. In the meantime, it is important we continue to look out for each other and to follow the distancing rules as our patriotic contribution to the state’s and nation’s battle to stop the spread of this deadly virus. Thomas Paine would be gratified to know we do not “shrink” from our responsibility.

That explains why I had no golf cart driving skills. Golf carts seem relatively simple especially if you have been driving one on the golf course for many years. However, for somebody who has driven only cars, there are a number of disturbing differences. The braking system is unique because you can just tap a tiny corner of it to slow down gradually. When I first started driving our golf cart, I was slamming it down out of fear. It turns out that isn’t necessary because they don’t go very fast. I like that about them. You can’t get in nearly as much trouble at lower speeds. Going in reverse out of the driveway is probably the hardest for me for a number of reasons. Number one is that loud ear-shattering beeping, which I realize is a safety feature, but to a novice driver it added to my stress level. The other issue is that you have to step on the accelerator fairly hard to get it go in reverse unlike a car. Driving the golf cart on the multi-use trails is maybe the most challenging for me when I meet another cart. The other golf cart drivers don’t realize that I don’t have the best depth perception. In my head, the golf cart is the same size as my Cadillac. It’s not, of course, but it is hard for my head to believe that. My first solo trip driving our golf cart was to my yoga class, and I very much needed yoga afterwards. All went well, but sometimes the fear about something turns out to be much worse than the actual experience. I also got the thumbs up from my kind neighbor as I headed out. I needed that. I really do love riding or even driving the golf cart now because I love the open air feel of it. We have had some very happy moments this past month “cruising” through the neighborhoods enjoying the beauty of Herons Glen.

Keeping Up While AwayBy Linda Lynch, Herons Glen Do you wonder what is going on in Herons Glen while you’re away? You can always access an electronic version of our community newspaper, The Heron, to keep up. To see the online version: • Go to hggcc.com. • Across the top place your cursor over “Other HG Websites.” • Then scroll down to the second i tem “The Homeowner’s Assoc.” and click on it. • Next, go to the left side of the page and click on the image of the newspaper in the box marked “Electronic Newspaper (Archive of Past Heron Newspapers).” You may have to scroll down along the left side to find the Electronic Newspaper. • Then go to the middle of the page for an archive of the past year’s issues, 2018/19, shown as pdf files. • Click on the issue you’d like to read, and it will come up on your screen. • From here, you can read the paper online or print it out to read hard copy. There is also a link to the HG newspaper archives in The HOA Weekly Bulletin from HOA Manager Joyce Gillespie. The link is towards the bottom of each bulletin on the right. If you click on the link, it will bring you to the 2018/19 pdf version of each issue.

Snowbirds!By Linda Lynch, Herons Glen The term “snowbird” is a nickname for a migrating bird that mates and breeds in Canada and the northern states but heads south to winter. The bird is the dark-eyed junco. A member of the sparrow family, it is commonly called a snowbird because of its sudden appearance at winter bird feeding stations. The bird varies geographically and was originally thought to be five different species but is actually a single species. The birds are 5 to 6½ inches long with a pinkish bill and dark eyes. The feathers range from dark grey to dark tan depending on their geographic origin. A “snowbird” as more commonly thought of by Glenners is a North American person who migrates from the higher latitudes and colder climates of the Northern United States and Canada to the warmer southern areas of the United States, such as Florida, California, Arizona, and Texas, or even south of the United States to Mexico or the Caribbean. Snowbirds, the people variety, are typically retirees who wish to avoid the cold temperatures, snow and ice of northern winters but want to maintain their ties with their family and friends by returning north for the milder parts of the year. Many go to the same southern location every year and consider their southern neighbors as their second family. It’s not unusual for snowbirds to spend five to six months in their southern residence. Historically Florida and Arizona have been the top snowbird locations, though snowbirds are not limited to these areas.

Doing outdoor chores

Golf cart cruising

On the practice range

On the putting green

Grilling at the ballroom

Bicyclers enjoying outdoor freedom

Enjoying the cookout takeout

Sarah ready for a solo trip

Spreading Your WingsBy Sarah Schoon, Herons GlenPhoto by Doug Schoon, Herons Glen As a relative newcomer to Herons Glen, one of the first skills I had to learn was how to drive a golf cart. Yes, I am one of the few people here who doesn’t golf. It just never worked for me. I took lessons a long time ago, and I think my husband was embarrassed to golf with me because I was so horrible and slow.

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Page 6, Herons Glen

Snowbirds have a big impact on the economics of the areas where they winter. They spend money for all kinds of goods and services, sometimes work seasonal jobs, and often do volunteer work. A large number of snowbirds evolve over time and eventually make their southern home their permanent residence while traveling back north for a few months each year. They thus become “sunbirds.” According to estimates from a University of Florida study conducted more than a decade ago, Florida absorbs an estimated 900,000 to a million seasonal residents who stay a month or more every winter, raising the state’s population by about 5 percent. Their average stay is five months, usually November through March. That figure doesn’t include tourists. However, the snowbird population could be much higher. Since the U.S. Census doesn’t count temporary residents, agencies and municipalities use a variety of ways to estimate their numbers, but there is no standard method. For example, a related couple who stay for two months in your spare bedroom wouldn’t be included in those figures. So as the people snowbirds head back north, the people sunbirds enjoy the peace and quiet that comes with a reduced Florida population.

Enjoying Paradise By Linda Lynch, Herons Glen It’s not unusual to hear someone from Herons Glen refer to our community as “Paradise.” There are numerous aspects of living here that indeed make it our paradise. Our wonderful neighbors and friends, the diversity of activities available, the beautiful landscaping, the generally fine winter climate – these all contribute to making paradise. And it’s also the magnificent wildlife with which we share our neighborhood that adds to the paradisiacal quality here. Being Herons Glen, it’s not unusual to sight great blue herons and great white herons. We have our resident sandhill crane families, ibises, egrets, pelicans, and an occasional roseate spoonbill. Ospreys and hawks are common, and eagles are not a surprise. Owls, woodpeckers, cormorants, anhingas, and mourning doves are just a few of the other birds typically spotted around the Glen. Our paradise wildlife also encompasses the alligators and turtles seen in our ponds, along with the wild boars most favorably seen across Route 41. Coyotes show up from time to time, and there are wild cats that are sometimes identified as bobcats or as panthers. Truly, it is a privilege to share our habitat with these creatures who do so much to enhance our community.

Snowbirds! from page 5

Mom, where are you? I’m taller so I’m the oldest!

Eagle on our golf course

Flock of ibis flying over the Glen

Three of the family

You’ll find the doctor on Kayla Way.Blue heron

Pet Safety RemindersBy Linda Lynch, Herons Glen There are so many things cat and dog owners can do to assure the safety of their pets that sometimes it’s helpful to get some reminders. And in hot weather, there are even more reasons to be mindful of pet safety. A perusal of pet safety literature yields a number of suggestions for maintaining the general and hot-weather health of your four-legged friends. Here are some tips, in no particular order. Pet owners should visit their vet regularly to get a checkup for their pets and to receive needed vaccinations and tests for common diseases and conditions. In fact, Lee County requires a regularly administered rabies vaccine for all dogs and cats. All pets should have identification attached to their collars and/or they should be microchipped so they can be returned to their owners if lost.

Pets need plenty of fresh clean water, especially in hot or humid weather. In fact, if you go out during very hot weather, consider leaving two bowls of water for your pet in case one is knocked over. Be sure rubber bands and strings are kept away from pets. These are particularly dangerous for cats and, if ingested, may need to be removed surgically. If a cat or dog swallows string but some is still visible, contact your vet to have it removed; don’t try to pull it out yourself. Indoor and outdoor plants should be chosen carefully to avoid those that are toxic. If cats or dogs chew on poisonous plants, they will get sick. Similarly, rodent poisons as well as lawn and garden insecticides and pesticides are noxious for pets, so always keep them out of reach and don’t allow pets to play on lawns that have been treated. Food and drink commonly found at barbeques and parties can also be dangerous for pets if ingested, so keep pets away from these items. Alcohol is particularly harmful, as is chocolate (primarily for dogs). Also be sure to keep cigar and cigarette butts away from pets as chewing on them can cause nicotine poisoning. Many dogs love riding in a car with the windows open. Just be sure to keep your pet’s head and paws inside the car and make certain your pet is properly restrained. In hot weather, all of these suggestions, especially the one calling for plenty of water, continue to apply, but there are some other suggestions for safeguarding your pets. Never, ever leave your pet in a hot car. It takes only minutes – minutes – for a pet to develop heat stroke and/or suffocate in a car. Pets should not get too much exercise in very hot weather and many should be kept indoors much of the day. Being outdoors should be confined to the cooler hours of the day. And don’t forget that surfaces like asphalt or metal can get hot and burn your pet’s paws. If your pet has a thick coat, consider a summer haircut. But keep the hair at least an inch long to avoid sunburn. Yes, pets can get sunburn! Your pets should not be unsupervised around a pool. Not all are good swimmers and drinking pool water with its chlorine and other chemicals isn’t a good idea. Most importantly, always pay attention to your dog and cat, but particularly in hot weather. Most pets show signs of discomfort or pain, so if you notice something seems different, you will be able to seek treatment from your vet in a timely fashion. One final aspect of pet safety that is sometimes overlooked is the use of a leash when outside. Keeping a dog (or cat) on a leash is not just good common sense to assure the welfare of your pet, but it is often what the law requires. In Herons Glen, our Covenants state that: “No pets are permitted to run free. If the owner fails to honor such rule, the pet may be removed or a fine or other penalty may be imposed by the Board of Directors … Household pets shall at all times whenever they are outside a unit be confined on a leash held by a responsible person.” And it isn’t just Herons Glen that mandates a leash for dogs. Under the statutes enacted by Lee County, all dog owners are prohibited from allowing the dog in their control from becoming stray or roaming at large on public streets, sidewalks, school grounds or in the vicinity of school vehicles, beaches, parks, or the private property of others without the property owner’s consent. For a dog to be considered under direct control, it must be within immediate and continuous physical control of its owner at all times, and statutes dictate that any leash, cord, or chain used to control the dog must not exceed 6 feet. Pet owners generally want to keep our furry friends safe from harm. By following these tips, you can maximize your pet’s safety.

What do you mean stay 6 feet away from you?

Wildlife Around The Glen!

Herons Glen, Page 7

Community ActivitiesActivitiesBy Pat Stuchly, Herons Glen We can all recall where we have been these past few weeks with the outbreak of COVID-19. Our activities have been curtailed and our lifestyle has been changed temporarily. But the question is: Where were you on Feb. 17 and March 1? Do you remember? Let me help you. The Shredding Event of Feb. 17 was happening! Thank you Herons Glen residents for supporting us and for your generous donations. Secure Shredding told us that we had almost 1.2 tons of paper shredded. Very impressive!

Operational support was given by committee members Kathy Petrillo, Pat Scharf, Jeanne Winans, Theresa McGarry, Jean Lambeseder and Nancy Orr. And a special thank you goes out to Tony McGarry and Bud Stuchly. They were ready to help by unloading cars, golf carts and assisting in any way. This year we coordinated the Shredding Event with the Firewise Community Event hosted by the SSEP Committee. A very busy day at the Glen! We will be sponsoring this event next year, so hold tight to all your unwanted, obsolete papers/documents and we will be happy to have these shredded for you! On Sunday, March 1, the second Home Improvement and Garden Showcase was held in the ballroom.

Over 22 vendors were represented from many different sectors such as interior home decorators, storm windows, pavers, curbing, and gardeners. The residents spent their time stopping at the various booths to gather information and set up appointments with some of the vendors. It was also a great time for residents to pause on a Sunday afternoon and say “hi” to neighbors and friends and share thoughts about some of the booths represented. Thanks to all the residents who supported this event. The showcase was sponsored by the HOA Activities Committee, under the outstanding leadership of member Theresa McGarry and the committee of Pat Scharf, Kathy Petrillo and Jean Lambeseder (and Tony). Thanks for helping to making this another event well received by the residents!

Annual Canadians Of The Glen BreakfastBy Vivian Manning, Herons Glen On Saturday, March 12, the Glen Canadians gathered together at Herons Glen restaurant for their annual breakfast and to meet and enjoy the company of their fellow Canadians of the Glen. Many thanks go to hosts Joyce and John Haist for once again doing a fantastic job in organizing the breakfast, and also to all the volunteers who assisted in putting together this annual event. Approximately 85 Canadians attended the breakfast and, after the singing of the Canadian anthem, Oh Canada, the festivities began. It was noted that there are more than 100 Canadians who call the Glen home through the winter months, many longtime residents along with a number of newcomers, all who have come to love spending the coldest winter months in the warmth and welcome of the Glen. Through the sea of red and white outfits, hats, glasses and scarves, residents of almost every province were identified by way of answers to some very tough but very enjoyable Canadian trivia questions. The fun was followed by a presentation from members of the HGRD Board on the bond issue currently being voted upon by members of the Glen. The information provided was of great help in determining the choices to be made when voting. After the feast, fun and festivities ended, the traditional chocolate maple leaves and loonies were a wonderful parting treat. Many thanks to the dining room staff for the great food and service! Looking forward to seeing everyone next season.

Butterfly Society Of The Glen March MeetingBy Vivian Manning, Herons GlenPhoto by Vivian Manning, Herons Glen Twenty-eight members attended the March 12 meeting of the Butterfly Society of the Glen in Activities Room A at the clubhouse. Beth Burnett, president, opened the meeting with thanks for all those present and all those who support the society. Congratulations to Carol Schultz who was the winner of the garden gift basket fundraiser. Carol generously re-donated some items from the basket towards a future fundraiser for the society. Thank you, Carol, for your generosity! President Beth thanked everyone who contributed towards the fundraiser

garden gift basket, including Powell’s Nursery in Punta Gorda, and also thanked all who donated craft items and jewelry to sell at the Glen’s 3-D art show, in support of the society. Joy Barber announced that the society was able to raise $420! Congratulations to 50/50 raffle winner Barb Peet! Our guest speakers at the meeting were Rick Molek and Sharon Gilbert of Thrifty Garden in Fort Myers. Rick spoke on the topic of Florida Gardening Basics, providing information on:• Native Florida planting• Thrifty garden favorites• The crucial importance of garden diversity• Basic planting tips and pest management Sharon Gilbert conducted a plant talk quiz and giveaway of many items for correct quiz answers. Much fun and good information was had by all! Many thanks to Sharon and Rick for a very interesting and useful presentation! In closing, members were reminded of the upcoming fundraiser plant sale to take place on April 4 (tentatively) from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., outside Activity Room A and the gazebo area, with a reminder to correctly label plants provided for the sale and to send a list of all the donated plants so that a proper care sheet can be prepared. Members were encouraged to keep a lookout for future guest speakers. Big thanks to Sandy Bennett for providing cookies for the meeting! If you have an interest in butterflies and gardening for butterflies, please come join the society – our next meeting is scheduled for April 9 at 6:30 p.m., Activities Room A (please check to confirm date, as meeting may be rescheduled due to the Coronavirus).

Easter Memories And TraditionsBy Anita Sharninghouse, Herons Glen My favorite memories of Easter begin with the wonderful sunrise service I was allowed to attend. As the sun rose over the congregation, the words and hymns brought feelings of love and comfort. The sunrise service and a dramatic walk to our church pew was the beginning of my own Easter parade. My personal Easter parade began in the early ’50s but the Easter parade tradition dates back to the mid-1800s. The song lyrics of Easter Parade depict exactly how I felt “In your Easter bonnet, with all the frills upon it, you’ll be the grandest lady in the Easter parade.” We often had snow on Easter but the spring clothing and the shiny black shoes were worn anyway with a coat carried on my arm so the new outfit could be seen. I may have done a few pirouettes as I walked to our family’s church pew, just in case anyone missed the shoes. My Easter hat was taken on and off multiple times during the church service until dad would quietly tell me to stop. The thought of the patience my father had while raising his four noisy children still amazes me. The shiny shoes were always my favorite. Cleaning the shoes so you could see your reflection was done with loving care. I used petroleum jelly, but I recently learned that home baked biscuits could be used. The lard used to make the biscuits made the shoes shinier than new.

M o n a rc h b u t t e r f l y o n milkweed

Easter Memories And Traditions on page 8

Easter memories of patent leather shoes

Page 8, Herons Glen

Although many of the ladies in our small village liked to walk through town to show off their finery, my dad drove us back home for a delicious ham dinner that was ready to enjoy when we arrived. I don’t recall having ham any other day of the year as I grew up but the smell of it baking when we opened the front door is still clearly ingrained in my mind with pictures from past Easters. I’ve carried on many traditions with my children and grandchildren not knowing their history. Many cherished Easter traditions have been around for centuries. The Easter bunny first arrived in America in the 1700s with German immigrants who settled in Pennsylvania and transported their tradition of an egg-laying hare called Osterhase. Their children made nests where the bunny could lay its colorful eggs. Children often left carrots for the bunny in case he got hungry from all his hopping. The white gloves I wore on Easter Sunday often covered the multicolored stained fingers I had from decorating eggs. This tradition dates back to around the 13th century. One explanation for this custom is that eggs were formerly a forbidden food during the Lenten season, so people would paint and decorate them to mark the end of the period of penance and fasting. Eating them on Easter was a tasty part of their celebration. The first official White House egg roll occurred in 1878 and continues today. Easter egg hunts and egg rolling have always been enjoyed by our family. We’ve held our family hunts and participated in community egg hunts. The laughs and cheers as the eggs are found can still be heard. Seeing a large decorated basket full of candy was wonderful on Easter morning. Researching the history of Easter baskets, I was surprised to find that Easter is the second best-selling candy holiday in America. Among the most popular sweet treats associated with this day are chocolate eggs, which date back to the early 19th century Europe. Jellybeans became associated with Easter in the 1930s. For the past decade, the top-selling nonchocolate Easter candy has been the marshmallow Peep. The original Peeps introduced in the 1950s were handmade, marshmallow-flavored yellow chicks. Other shapes and flavors were later introduced including chocolate mousse bunnies. Our family has moved away from the big baskets of candy and the special Easter shoes. As we build new family traditions, enjoying the memories of years past is wonderful. My older body may not be as easy to get ready to attend a sunrise service as it was in the past, but my heart and memories are still enjoying the thought of rushing out of bed to begin a wonderful Easter.

Line Dancing Is For EverybodyBy Sarah Schoon, Herons Glen If you thought line dancing was something that only a select group of people could manage, think again. Herons Glen offers free line dancing classes in the ballroom, taught by Ginger Williams. Ginger says that her classes are for all skill levels. “If you can count to eight, you can dance with us! I am blessed to have wonderful people in my class who are always willing to help someone new. What I like most about teaching someone to line dance is seeing the joy on their face when they learn a new dance.” If the desire to dance isn’t enough, consider the health benefits it offers. “Many medical studies have been done regarding the

Easter Memories And Traditions from page 7 benefits of all forms of dancing for our brains; connecting the rhythm of the music to moving your feet to the beat in a repetitive pattern has proven to be brain beneficial, and there is also the aerobic benefit,” said Ginger. If you are not a fan of county music, line dancing is adaptable to other genres of music such as pop tunes. Ginger says she likes to mix it up with the music selections for teaching line dancing. “Any song with a good beat can be utilized to dance. You just have to pair the right dance to the right song. I have people in my class, who are very good at helping me to do this, and that makes me happy because then teaching becomes collaborative.” To further assist you, Ginger can send you instructional line dancing videos and steps to practice at home. It will help you feel more comfortable with the steps practiced, and who knows, maybe you will take it a step further someday and go public with your skills.

Keep Your Tickets To Lovers And Other StrangersBy Linda Dentel, Herons Glen The board of the Players of the Glen made the difficult decision last week to postpone this year’s production of Lovers And Other Strangers until next March. Please hold on to your tickets. They will be honored next March. We would like to thank all of the dedicated volunteers who worked so many hours for this year’s production and we want to thank everyone who purchased a ticket to attend. We hope to see all of you next year at our 2021 production of Lovers And Other Strangers. Thank you for all of your support. Stay healthy. Sincerely, The Board of the Players of the Glen: Dick Barrow, Phyllis Johnsen, Rose Hansford, Wayne Bryan, Gloria Selander, Katie Tolstyka, Linda Dentel and Director, Trish Perry.

Meet The Quilters Of The GlenBy Linda Lynch, Herons Glen Collectively, these 17 women have over 350 years of quilting experience. Some started quilting back in 4-H; others have a family history of quilting. Still others took it up after years of sewing. The group meets weekly on Wednesday and Thursday, and participants attend when they can. When these women get together, their combined energy, enthusiasm, and capabilities are palpable and exciting. One member, while renting in the Glen, attended a quilters meeting and felt so welcome that it was a key factor in her and her husband’s decision to purchase a house in Herons Glen. The current group of quilters consists of Carolyn Bowles, Joyce Crawford, Anne Deane, Debra Gluszczak, Diane Green, Judy Jessop, Karen Jessop, Donilyn Keesling, Dianne Kline, Jill Knowlton, Susan Kowalski, Carolyn McPherson, Karen Mars, Dotti Pierce, Sharon Salminen, Carol Tombari, and Jane Zerkel. These talented women bring a variety of skills and experience to their quilting gatherings and are more than willing to share their knowledge with their fellow quilters. Some of the Herons Glen quilters do hand quilting, while others prepare the top and have the quilting done elsewhere. Judy Jessop has a quilting machine here in the Glen that some use. There are quilters who add embroidery or appliqué to their quilts and even some who paint. The quilting group at Herons Glen was originally started by resident Betty Baker over 20 years ago. Since there weren’t many Herons Glen quilters at the time, Betty also invited nonresidents to participate. As the number of quilters has increased, the group is now made up entirely of Herons Glen residents. While many of the Herons Glen quilters are quite seasoned, there are also relative newbies, and a number of current members were not quilters before they joined this group. Current members recall former resident Ruth Leonard, who at the young age of 92, became active with the group and made her first quilt. Members of the Herons Glen quilting group are also members of the Southwest Florida Guild of Quilters which has nearly 200 members and exists to promote the art and heritage of quilting. The Guild meets monthly at the North Fort Myers Recreation Center and sponsors six to seven classes led by professional instructors per year. Judy Jessop, one of the Glen quilters, is the current president of the Guild. Through the Guild, quilters can participate in the biennial Quilt Show. The most recent, which was their 12th, took place in February, with HG quilters winning 14 ribbons. Debra Gluszczak of Herons Glen was a cochair of this year’s show. In the off-year, the Guild sponsors a retreat at the 97-acre DaySpring Episcopal Retreat Center in Parrish, Fla., where various quilting classes taught by national experts are held. Dianne Kline, another Glen quilter, is responsible for organizing these retreats. One of the quilters described it as a pajama party with wine, but in reality, it is also a serious event where quilters learn and share with one another. Herons Glen quilters, along with their peers in the Guild, are also very involved in community service. For several years, several Herons Glen quilters have contributed a quilt to our Herons Glen Pretty In Pink fundraising campaign. The Guild also

provides quilts for the Guardian Ad Litem Foundation (children in foster care), Early Head Start and Head Start programs, Hope HealthCare Services (children, hospice patients, veterans), the Lee Health System including the Golisano Children’s Hospital, and the Ronald McDonald House of Southwest Florida. Guild members donate approximately 75 quilts of various sizes each month to these organizations. They also donate food and canned items to the Harry Chapin Food Bank several times a year. While there are currently no men in the Herons Glen Quilters Group, the Cape Coral Guild has a male member or two, and Heron Glen has had a few men in the past. Familiarity and ease with a sewing machine certainly help if you find yourself interested in quilt making, and local quilt shops serve as excellent resources for newer quilters. In addition, joining the Guild provides members with numerous opportunities to take classes with nationally recognized teachers. Plus, the Quilters of the Glen are available to help in numerous ways. Anyone who would like to know more about or join the Herons Glen Quilters is invited to just show up at one of their gatherings. They meet starting around 9 to 9:30 a.m. every Wednesday and Thursday in Activities Room A and are always happy to welcome new members.

Slow Down, Please!By Jack Nelson, Herons Glen When I made my first visit to Herons Glen in 1990, there was only a handful of houses built. The first thing I noticed were the speed limits. Who ever heard of 16 and 26 miles per hour? But those numbers caught my immediate attention. The developers must have had some profound insight to the future, with a keen mind for safety. The Avenida del Vera was our main drag then, stretching from the front gate all the way back to the hinterlands, only a couple of stone throws away from I-75. Now, in the year 2020, there is a total of 1,284 homes lining our streets, and along the way, the moniker of the Avenida gave way to Herons Glen Boulevard. Our community is a bustling place, with our streets active from dog walkers all the way up to semis. As we motor our cars around the Glen, we need to be ever so alert and keep our speed down. Unfortunately, there are countless drivers who have their own speed limit. In my observation, delivery trucks are at the top of the list, and there are many golf carts, with “enhanced” speed capability, that maneuver our streets with impressive speeds. But I hope those cart drivers never hit any vehicle head on, for fear they may become another statistic. Last week, as I drove along Palo Duro Boulevard, I approached two pickup trucks, belonging to landscapers. I slowed to 10 mph as I neared the trucks, and I’m very thankful that I did. Without any warning, a cute little puppy darted out in front of me, using up all of its owner’s leash. No contact, thankfully, and the pet owner quickly reeled in her little doggie like a fish on a line. Now I’d like to discuss the busiest and most dangerous intersection (in my opinion, of course) in the Glen: Via La Quinta/Palo Duro and the Boulevard. Courtesy and alertness are of paramount importance here. The long, angled crosswalk is quite a stretch for walkers and golf carts, so patience is the rule here. And there are certain times of the year when the setting sun beams its rays directly into drivers’ eyes heading west on the Boulevard. More caution needed here. Finally, I’ll discuss our wildlife. How many times have you had to come to a complete stop, especially on the Boulevard, for those squawking sandhill cranes? They certainly take their time going from A to B, and they give you a look that suggests you’re trespassing on their turf, even though it’s macadam. But I’m thankful for those majestic avian critters, for when I see them eating those grubs from our lawns and golf course, I’m thankful they’re here; and how about the squirrels and rabbits? They’re always darting out in front of us, and the squirrels keep you guessing as to which way they’ll go; darting about in zigzag fashion. I always slow down for them. In summary, every time I enter the Glen, I always notice the 26 mph sign on our main street, and I keep thinking, “That always seems slow to me, but I can live with it.” And when I enter Palo Duro, there’s that 16 mph sign, and my reaction is the same. After all, I’m retired, so what’s the rush?

‘Can You Spare A Square?’By Pam Scheid, Herons Glen Our current national obsession with toilet paper brings to mind a memorable line from The Jerry Seinfeld Show’s Elaine, who is in a stall with no TP, asks the woman in the next one if she “can spare a square.” The woman’s refusal would seem to foreshadow today’s idea of the value of paper products. Fear of tissue bankruptcy has sparked a “run” on retailers and the hysterical hording of this precious commodity. Perhaps the stock market’s decline has caused “investors” to shift their holdings to toilet paper in the hope of realizing some profit when demand exceeds supply. Understandably, as people prepared to heed the social

Ginger Williams

‘Can You Spare A Square?’ on page 9

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Herons Glen, Page 9

distancing requirements and the prospect of spending an indefinite period of time at home, they headed out to stock up on supplies. Bread, milk, eggs, canned goods, and liquor quickly disappeared from the shelves. However, it was the carts loaded with toilet paper that was apparently unanticipated with no thought to limit the customers’ TP purchase. Soon, with little to none available those who were desperate to get in on what looked to be a promising investment opportunity have turned to hoarding paper towels and napkins. If confinement to our homes extends to a long period of time, we may need to be wary of desperate neighbors, who did not stock up on TP. To protect our own dwindling supply, we may have to lock our doors and activate our security systems. More likely, however, in our community a severe shortage of TP and other staples would result in a neighborhood barter system (money has no value in situations like this): six eggs for a roll of toilet paper. As usual, our social behavior has become the inspiration for cartoons. One shows a man opening his wall safe to take out one “square” and then relocking his safe. Another features a person at a claw machine attempting to grab a roll. There is even a video depicting an illegal, back alley exchange between a TP dealer and his buyer. Perhaps this gentle poking fun at recent behavior will appeal to people’s better instincts and they will not continue to purchase more than they need. In the meantime, use your TP sparingly; it’s precious stuff.

Operation SERE Described To VOGBy Pam Scheid with Bruce Johnson, Herons Glen At the last meeting of the season, the Veterans of the Glen’s featured speaker was its vice president, retired Senior Master Sergeant Bruce Johnson. For all of his 23-year career he worked with the Survival, Evasion, Recovery, and Escape (SERE) program designed for pilots and other military personnel who are shot down or become isolated in enemy territory. During World War I, there was very little training for those who were captured or had to evade in Europe. However, as airpower and long-range bombing became a more common military action in World War II, more rigorous programs were required and developed. Recovery operations had to be developed for downed pilots and escaped POWs. World War II was fought on two fronts, so training pilots in the Asian as well as European theaters presented new challenges for the Air Force and the SERE team. Some of the items issued to pilots and other soldiers were special water-resistant maps and “chits,” some made of silk or rayon. The chits had a picture of the American flag and a message written in local languages offering “friendlies” a reward for helping an American. By the time Bruce joined the Air Force and the SERE program, war fighting was unconventional in the sense that battle lines were often undefined and enemy recognition difficult. From the Korean, Viet Nam, and Middle Eastern conflicts, the SERE team has worked to develop better survival kits containing improved maps and high tech equipment for pilots and other military personnel. The new chits and maps were printed on a durable Tyvek-like material with greater detail and more survival information. Language experts were recruited to make sure the different dialects were correct on the chits. On display for the members to see was an impressive collection of SERE maps and chits. He even had a World War II packet carried by his father, who was a bomber pilot. Many artifacts in Bruce’s collection are one-of-a-kind products from the team’s research and development. One of those special chits, written in an Arabic dialect, was framed and presented to Bruce when he retired. Before the meeting closed, it was announced that table reservations for the Veterans Day dinner dance, Nov. 11 can be made by contacting Fred Obermueller.

Western DanceBy Candace Huetteman, Herons GlenPhotos by Zenon Gluszczak, Herons Glen “Great night! One of the best events ever held in the ballroom.” “What an amazing night! Great music, awesome decorations.” “Kudos to everyone behind the scenes on the Resident Events Committee and to the staff that provided the food and beverages.” And, “Thank you to everyone who worked so hard to make it a perfect evening.” These are just a few of the comments that appeared on the Google group site the day following the Western Dance held on

Feb. 25. The same sentiments were being expressed on the bocce courts, in the lounge, at the pool, and just about everywhere as people talked about what a great time they had that night. The Ben Allen Band provided lively entertainment for the 263 country fans that crowded the ballroom. And almost everyone was dressed for a western party. Candace Huetteman was singled out as the best dressed woman and Al Southerland and Pat Roth were the best dressed couple. The Resident Events Committee, under the leadership of Linda Nickerson, deserves praise and thanks for planning another season of fun.

fronds must be tied into bundles of 50 pounds or less. Few of us in Herons Glen are likely to exceed 50 pounds of yard waste in a given week! In preparing yard waste for pickup, be sure to use paper bags or waste cans instead of plastic bags. Lee County workers have to separate yard waste that is placed in plastic bags from the rest of the landscaping yard waste, and the plastic bags must be disposed of as trash. Paper bags are biodegradable and compatible with mulch and compost production. They are widely available at local home improvement and hardware stores. Better yet is the use of waste cans or bins because they can be reused over and over and save you the cost of the bags. Cans and bins are also fast and convenient for workers who can just empty them and move on. In 2018, 10,000 tons of yard waste were placed in plastic bags, requiring manual separation. About 92 percent of Lee County residents now put their yard waste in paper bags or waste cans, so if you aren’t one of these, resolve to join them. Yard waste is shredded for mulch and distributed at five locations around the county. It is also a primary component in OrganicLee® compost. Free mulch from yard waste is available in North Fort Myers in the county park behind the library on Old U.S. 41. The free locations are not attended, so you must bring your own containers and a shovel to procure the mulch for yourself. OrganicLee® compost is produced by the Lee County Solid Waste Department at its Compost Production Facility at the Lee/Hendry landfill. It is available in 20-pound bags for purchase at the Resource Recovery Facility in Burlington or the Topaz Court Solid Waste Annex in Fort Myers. Any questions about the Lee County yard waste collection program can be resolved by calling one of their customer service representatives at (239) 533-8000 or checking their website at www.leegov.com/solidwaste.

‘Can You Spare A Square?’ from page 8

A Cool Way To Get FitBy Sarah Schoon, Herons Glen You may have wondered about the weekly “pool party” going on in Herons Glen on Tuesday mornings. There is lively music and residents are moving to the beat, following the instructions of an energetic woman on the pool deck. It is Aqua Zumba®, taught by Stacy Kobert, and is offered year-round in Herons Glen. During this 60-minute class, you will experience a full range of dance fitness moves done at a slower pace with the buoyancy of the water to cushion the stress to your body. With the added arm movements, Aqua Zumba offers a dynamic, full-body workout. According to Stacy, the water pressure can improve one’s heart health by increasing blood circulation and reducing resting heart rate. Another key benefit often overlooked includes improving brain activity to avoid or lessen the effects of dementia. The music alone can elevate your mood and reduce anxiety.

For most participants, this hour-long class goes by quickly, and when you get out of the pool, you will feel pleasantly relaxed like a trip to the spa. Unlike traditional Zumba, if you don’t get the moves quite right, nobody will notice because most of the movement is done underwater. Join Stacy and the rest of the Aqua Zumba participants for a great time on Tuesday morning at the pool.

Yard Waste FundamentalsBy Linda Lynch, Herons Glen Lee County has a robust recycling program, both curbside and drop-off. In addition to traditional recycling of glass, paper, plastics, aluminum, etc., all residents receive one curbside yard collection per week to retrieve grass clippings, tree limbs and branches, palm fronds, leaves, fallen fruit, and dead plants and flowers. Even Christmas trees can be considered as yard waste if all tinsel and decor have been removed. To be eligible for pickup, yard waste must be placed in a container and weigh 50 pounds or less or be securely tied into bundles with a weight no heavier than 50 pounds and not longer than 6 feet. Up to 50 pounds of unbundled palm fronds may also be placed at the curb, while additional

Where My Heart BelongsBy Sarah Schoon, Herons Glen

Photo by Sarah Schoon, Herons Glen

Like a migratory bird,I fly back to the land

Of the tall corn.

But my heart is divided,Between my home state,And this land of sunshine

And palm trees.

Shore birds and tiny lizards,Rose-red sunsets and white Ibis,

As well as friendly neighbors make it hardTo leave.

Florida, you have won my heart.Someday I may decide to stay

And never go back.

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Page 10, Herons Glen

Sports NewsBocce Association Fish FryBy Pam Scheid, Herons Glen Dozens of Bocce Association members gathered on the lawn at the home of Dick Gariepy for the annual fish fry. This much anticipated event was hosted by Dick Gariepy and Tom Schneider who, at the deep-fryer, kept a steady supply of fish filets on the buffet for their eager diners. Assisting the cooks by breading fish and helping with setup and cleanup were George Minot, Mary and Bill Macklen, Joe Tumillo, Art Fient, Karen Schneider, and Debbie Baker. As the large crowd gathered, Rick Scharf directed traffic and parking for cars and golf carts. Association members contributed to the feast by bringing their favorite side dishes to share.

The Herons Glen Bocce Association has grown to more than 200 members. Because bocce can be played by people of all ages and skill levels, it has become a popular activity in the Glen. Players have been drawn to the courts for the open and league matches where they’ve found opportunities to make new friends and to enjoy friendly competition. Special tournament events and social occasions like the fish fry make being part of the Bocce Association special.

Week Of Feb. 19HGMGA – Herons Glen Championship Round No. 3Two Best Balls Of Four Low NetFirst Flight: Jack Cotter, Don WilliamsSecond Flight: Butch Kohut, Wayne HeardHGLGA-18 – 1 Best Ball Of 2First Flight: Janice Esdale, Joanne CotterSecond Flight: Ann Bazinet, Jayne SchwarzHGLGA-9 – Low Net Vs. Front 9First Flight: Richie Kowalski, Becky GignacSecond Flight: Pat Quiston, Karen RobertsWeek Of Feb. 26HGMGA – Low Net Best Two BallsFirst Flight: Foster, Agate, Barrow, DreyerSecond Flight: Birecree, Brandt, White, StoriesHGLGA-18 – No games due to weatherHGLGA – 9 – No games due to weatherWeek Of March 2HGMGA – Quota All Balls FoursomeFirst Flight: Gussinick, Lemere, Miller, DesmetSecond Flight: Kilkady, Marshall, Holton, HaistHGLGA-18 – Low Chapman TeamFirst Flight: Sharon Scaife, Trish FarrowSecond Flight: Diane Trent, Joann FosterThird Flight: Paulette Miller, Ann BazinetHGLGA-9 – Low Net PlayerFirst Flight: Richie KowalskiSecond Flight: Denise JohnsonWeek Of March 9HGMGA – Outback Vs. HistoricOutback – 95Historic – 91HGLGA-18 – Odds And Evens ShootoutFirst Flight: Karen JensenSecond Flight: Dianna DumontThird Flight: Jan RaftisFourth Flight: Maryann PolvinenFifth Flight: Trish PerrySix Flight: Lynette WarrenHGLGA-9 – St. Patrick’s Day Ribbon ScrambleFirst Place: Bonnie MacGregor, Erna Dreyer, Janet Slater, Andrea MeadSecond Place: Nicki Baxter, Sue Wilcox, Becky Gignac, Ellen HalleranWeek Of March 16HGMGA – Cancelled due to weatherHGLGA-18 – Pretty In Pink First FlightFirst Place: Robinanne Wales, Jayne Schwarz, Elaine Sawyer, Jean GrecoSecond Place: Karen Jensen, Jan Paris, Carlene Pasche, Marianne McLeanThird Place: Carol Davie, Pat Kulkowski, Linda Birecree, Donna SpaideFourth Place: Cindy Brown, Sandy Viets, Jean Lambeseder, Louise MeehanHGLGA-9 – Pretty In PinkSecond FlightFirst Place: Donna Barber-Dunn, Sarah Hare, Denise Walton, Brenda LevenSecond Place: Joanne Buesing, Ginger McAlister, Norma Rystedt, Becky GignacThird Place: Patricia Farrow, Janice Boots, Nancy Hentges, Peggy MasonFourth Place: Barb Callaghan, Kim Basile, Carol Dyer, Ann Adam

Softball Team Wins The SeasonBy Karen Jessop, Herons GlenPhoto by Sharon Allen, Herons Glen Congratulations to the Herons Glen Softball Team for a fantastic season. We started the season with 23 players and welcomed a few new faces. There were so many great games including one shutout. We did have one rainout game when the skies opened up and in a matter of seconds, we all looked like a bunch of drowned rats. Another game went nine innings, unfortunately we lost by one run in the bottom of the ninth. That was one of only three games lost all season. What great team spirit, guys were willing to run the bases for other teammates, Doug Manning was willing to play for an opponent when the other team didn’t have enough players to field a team near the end of the season. Coach Jim Stone even coached third base for another team that was short of players. He was more than fair sending a couple of players from the other team in to score. Now that’s teamwork! Injuries begin to take their toll as the season moved along. But, never let it be said “older” men aren’t just as competitive as the young, even sliding into base. Now that part is a bit scary!

This season Herons Glen Eagles scored 307 singles, 58 doubles, 26 triples and seven home runs. The following players each had a home run: Tom Braunscheidel, Steve Brogan, Rich Morea, Mark Zaun and Pat Sanders had three. There were 242 runs scored this season – way to go team. We had nine players with batting averages of over 600 with Rich Morea finishing the season with a batting average of 692. Unfortunately, the season ended a couple of games early due to COVID-19. As always, we have the best fans in the world. They were there rain or shine cheering their hearts out with voices and noisemakers. This year the fans could order shirts to match the players uniforms and hats were worn by any number of guys as spectators. It was really nice to see such team spirit by all, either watching or playing. A thank you to our sponsors this year, Steve’s Painting, Sozio Construction and our anonymous donor. They helped provide new uniforms and equipment in addition to helping defray the cost of playing at the fields in Punta Gorda. To our residents, please keep saving those aluminum cans because that also helps defray the cost of the umpires, etc. Unfortunately, both the league party and the Herons

Golf Winners Week Of Feb. 12HGMGA – Stableford Vs. Flight First Flight: Phil SatyshurSecond Flight: Robert TrentThird Flight: Jim RystedtHGLGA-18 – Low PuttsFirst Flight: Tracy ChipmanSecond Flight: Pam BedoreThird Flight: Jean MottFourth Flight: Helen MisenerHGLGA-9 – Duke And DuchessFirst Place: Bruce and Donna JohnsonSecond Place: Dale and Karen RobertsThird Place: Steve and D’Arcie Kisner, Terry and Jo Potts

Front row: Karen Jessop (scorekeeper), Jim McCarthy, Ed Schmidt, Frank Krawczyk, Bob Foster, Steve Brogan, Doug Manning, Dan Keesling and Donilyn Keesling (scorekeeper). Back row: Mavis Kelley (scorekeeper), Coach Jim Stone, Tom Spenceley, Tom Braunscheidel, Rich Morea, Tom Schneider, Pat Sanders, Mark Zaun, Bill Allen, Bill Abbott, Bill Years and David Kelley. Missing: Bob Huetteman and Rich Pierce.

Softball Team Wins The Season on page 11

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Herons Glen, Page 11

Glen team party were cancelled out of caution, we’ll make up for it next year. A special thank you to Coach Jim Stone for another great year and to Tom Spenceley for keeping everything running smoothly in the dugout. Wishing everyone a safe summer, stay healthy and hope to see you all in the fall.

We Had a Ball!By Arlene Franchini, Herons GlenPhotos by Arlene Franchini, Herons Glen The Herons Glen Tennis Association and the Pickleball Association held their second annual combined dinner dance at the Herons Glen Ballroom on Feb. 19. The theme for this year’s social event was “Let’s Have A Ball.”

Softball Team Wins The Season from page 10

Sports News on page 12

Close to 200 association members, family and friends were treated to a lavish buffet prepared by the Herons Nest restaurant. Wonderful music for dancing was provided by TAT2, a favorite band of the Herons Glen community. Master of Ceremonies, John Avigliano kept the evening’s pace lively, initiating some great dancing from the guests. Dan Liebner, Tennis Association president, and Howard Nutt, Pickleball Association president, welcomed all to this annual group event that has become a highlight of the season. The 50/50 raffle coordinated by Frank DeSantis, brought cheers from the audience as the winners were drawn. Other prizes were given out by John Avigliano and Shirley DeSantis. All in all, everyone left the event looking forward to next year’s gala. Thanks to all involved who helped make this for a wonderful evening of dining, dancing, and friendship.

Pretty in Pink Exceeds All ExpectationsBy Shari Critchly and Sharon Pederson, cochairs and Linda Lynch, Herons Glen Despite the cloud of the COVID-19 virus, the Pretty in Pink (PIP) Tournament far exceeded all expectations. Some of the planned events had to be canceled, but on March 25, 77 women turned out to golf and enjoy the beautiful day, all while playing safely as directed by John Abbott, our golf pro. A key factor in the success of this campaign is the dedication over countless hours of the many committee chairpersons and the arduous work of all the members. And as usual, the generosity of Herons Glen community residents and the support of the men’s golf groups were overwhelming and inspiring.

Our HGRD manager, J. B. Belknap, “blindly” drew all the winning tickets for the raffle prizes. The winners were: ladies’ diamond necklace – Joan Darcy; ladies’ golf bag with clubs – Laura Cretens; Southwest Airline tickets – Bob McDonald and Scott Young; virus survivor basket – Karen Popp; Lake Tahoe vacation home – Linda Lynch. Many individuals also bid on silent auction items. Winners of these prizes include: Viva Italia basket donated by Alpha Gamma Beta Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi – Pam Nahass; two nights at Outrigger Beach Hotel donated by the hotel – Pam Nahass; golf at Warwick Hills and Captains Club in Grand Blanc, Mich., donated by Bob and Mari Kay Scott and the Captains Club – Don Misener. Not to be overlooked as major sources of contributions to the campaign are all the hole sponsors, many of whom donate year after year. Thanks to all of these various efforts, this year Partners in Breast Cancer Care Inc. will receive over $30,000 from Herons Glen, allowing them to serve many uninsured or underinsured men and women with breast cancer. This year’s contribution is especially important as funds for all charitable organizations are in jeopardy. Shari Critchly and Sharon Pederson, cochairs of PIP, are extremely grateful to the entire community for their assistance and support for this important cause.

2020 Pretty In Pink Golf WinnersFirst FlightFirst Place: Karen Jensen, Sandy Viets and Trish PerrySecond Place: Janice Boots, Jo DeLuca and Linda ProtaniThird Place: Mary Donoghue, Nancy Brown and Pat McQuistonFourth Place: Jackie Stratton, Nancy Gruezke, Nancy Raczka and Kathleen OlsenFifth Place: Barb Callaghan, Rose Hansford and Christine LemereSixth Place: Cindy Brown, Jan Rafts, Carol Dyer and Connie DavisClosest to the Pin: Janice Esdale (No. 4), Dianna Dumont (No. 7), Janice Esdale (No. 11), Jan Raftis (No.14)

Page 12, Herons Glen

By Karen Wills, Herons Glen The HOA Security, Safety, and Emergency Preparedness Committee (SSEP) held its annual Firewise Community Event Day. This was the sixth successful Firewise Community Event held on Monday, Feb. 17 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Affordable Carts gave free golf cart inspections. Waste Connections hosted a delicious barbecue prepared by Mission BBQ. Hot dogs, hamburgers and ice cream

Thank You Herons Glenwere also available. A raffle was held, and many great donated prizes were given away. In conjunction with the Firewise event, the Herons Glen Activities Committee held its annual shredding event in the clubhouse parking lot. The Florida Forestry Service had an equipment display and information booth. The North Fort Myers Fire Department, Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Lee County Blood Mobile, Herons

Glen CERT committee and other emergency responders all attended and provided lifesaving information to community members. Over $2,000 will be donated to the Fallen Firefighters of Florida. SSEP Committee members, CERT team members and others in the community volunteered their time to make this event such a success.

Sports News from page 11

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