Happy October, Everyone! Break out the pumpkin spice- fall is finally here! October brings the promise of cooler, drier weather after many months of heat, heavy rain, and high humidity.
As promised, this issue of The Happenings features information about our 2025/26 golf memberships. Memberships are now available, and you can join in the Golf Shop. This issue also highlights an article about Mike O’Neal, a 22-year veteran employee of the CSA, who now serves as our Grounds Manager. Mike has one of the most challenging jobs here at TGO: managing our lawn crew. One of CSA’s biggest responsibilities is servicing your lawns - no easy task. Mike’s role requires leadership, hard work, and flexibility, as Mother Nature regularly complicates lawn care here.
Fall is also budget season. Over the past several weeks, I’ve been meeting with CSA managers and supervisors to gather their requests so I can compile a responsible, realistic budget for 2026. This coming year’s budget includes a plan to further strengthen our reserves and prepare TGO for the future. It also includes projects designed to modernize and improve our 35-year-old community.
Our CSA Board of Directors will host their first meeting of the season on Wednesday, October 15, at 3:00 p.m. in the Manor. District meetings also begin next week. Serving on the Board is a time-consuming and sometimes thankless job. In my position, I see firsthand how much effort your elected Board members put forth on behalf of our owners, without compensation or favor. They conduct research, serve on committees, and spend countless hours preparing for meetings. Our chairman, Tom Wheir, devotes extraordinary time year-round to communication, meetings, inquiries, and long-range visioning for our community. As this board season begins, please consider expressing your appreciation to these leaders for their dedication to moving our community forward.
In recent weeks, we’ve also completed several “fall cleaning” projects to prepare for the busy season and the return of our seasonal residents. Vegetation along the Plantation entrance road was cleared to open sightlines and improve the appearance of our entrance. Courtesy Patrol hand-cleaned all road and directional signs throughout the community. We also professionally cleaned the floors at Blue Heron and the Manor. Later this month, we will pressure wash all our common areas and mulch our landscape beds. Many other projects continue behind the scenes to strengthen TGO’s future and protect your property value.
As always, if there is something I can do for you, please don’t hesitate to come see me at the CSA office or reach out to me via email at manager@tgocsa.org. I always enjoy speaking directly to our residents and owners. I hope you are gearing up for a great fall/winter/spring season here at TGO.
Sincerely,
Billy Specht CSA Manager
On the Cover:
For more than two decades, Mike O’Neal has helped shape the appearance of The Great Outdoors, maintaining lawns and landscapes and taking pride in how our resort looks.
TGO Golf Carts available for 9 holes only after 3:30 (time subject to change)
7
Hole Avengers
Not ready for 9 or 18 holes? Want to learn more with an easy scramble event that covers the first 7 holes? Then come join the Avengers every Tuesday at 3:00 pm. Meet new friends, have fun and learn the basics of golf. Everyone is welcome. Sign up at the Golf Shop.
Shop
TGO 9 Hole Fun League
Ladies and Gentlemen - TGO has a 9 hole “play your own ball” weekly league on Saturdays. Play will begin at 3:00 pm (tee times start). Sign-up info will be posted on the bulletin board at the golf shop. You can sign up as a group or individual.
by TGO PGA Professional Chuck Kandt Clinic Information is posted on the information board at the Golf Shop. Private Golf Lessons are Available by Appointment only. Tokens can be purchased in the golf shop.
Bill Schueller President MGA
Come Join our TGO Men’s Golf Association
• Membership fee is only $30.00 for a year of fun!
• Prizes and special event luncheons and end of year dinner!
• Tournaments every Wednesday! Sign-up at the TGO Pro Shop
2025 - 2026 Golf Calendar
November 5 Annual “MGA Welcome Back Scramble & Luncheon”
November 12 “1-2-3” Best Ball Team Competition
November 19 Annual “Turkey Shootout” Better Ball
November 26 Team Better Ball Tourney (1 on 3’s, 2 on 4’s, 3 on 5’s) + MGA Membership Meeting
December 3 Annual Team Skins Competition
December 10 Annual “MGA/LGA Holiday Scramble” & Luncheon
December 17 Team Better Ball (Count 2 on #1-9, Count 3 on #10-18)
December 24 No MGA Golf (Christmas Eve)
December 31 No MGA Golf (New Year’s Eve)
January 7 President’s Cup 1st Round Matches
January 9 Friday) - President’s Cup 2nd Round Matches
January 14 President’s Cup 3rd Round Matches + “Count 2” BB Game
January 16 (Friday) - President’s Cup Final Flight Matches (4)
January 21 MGA “9 Hole Stableford Team Tourney” 9:00 am
January 21 President’s Cup Semi-Final & Final Matches, 1:00 pm
January 28 Annual “Pink Chump Ball” Tourney + MGA Membership Meeting
February 4 Annual “MGA Member-Guest & 2 Man Better Ball Tourney”
February 11 Annual “Canadian Flag Open”
February 18 & 20 Annual MGA Club Championships
February 25 Team Better Ball Tourney (3 on 3’s, 2 on 4’s, 1 on 5’s)
March 4 Annual “MGA Away Day” - Location to be Announced
March 9 “Member-Member” Opening Social, 5:00 pm in the Manor
March 10, 11, 12 31st Annual “Member-Member” Tournament
March 13 “Member-Member Closing Banquet & Awards Night,” 5:00 pm
March 18 Annual “US Flag Open”
March 25 Annual “MGA Beat the Pros Closing Tournament” + BarBQ Luncheon, Awards & MGA Annual Meeting
Cliff Murray 2025 MGA Champion
Come Join our TGO Ladies Golf Association
• Membership fee is only $40.00 for a year of fun!
• Prizes and special event luncheons.
• Tournaments every Monday! Sign-up at the TGO Pro Shop
2025 - 2026 Golf Calendar
October 6 Shamble
October 13 Low Gross/Low Net
October 20 Breast Cancer Tournament
October 27 Invite a Friend
November 3
Scramble - Tee Up Luncheon
November 10 Trouble
November 17 2-Person Team Better Ball
November 24 Los Gross/Low Net
December 1 Bingo/Bango/Bongo
December 8 Team Stableford
December 10 MGA/LGA Day - Pro Shop Sanctioned Event
December 15 Low Gross/Low Net Throw out 2 worst scores or Three Blind Mice
December 22 Santas vs. Elves
December 29 Par 3 Game - New Year’s Theme
January 5 2-Person Team Scramble
January 12 4-Person Team Better Ball 3-2-1
January 19 Los Gross/Low Net Low Putts
January 26 Odds or Evens
February 2 Low Gross/Low Net Throw out worst Par t, Par 4, Par 3
February 9 Valentine’s Day Tournament
February 16-17 Club Championship* Tee Times Party after play on 17th
February 23 4 Club & Putter
March 2
Scramble Annual Meeting
March 9 Team Match Play
March 16-17 Member-Member* Tee Times Party after play on 17th
March 20 St. Patrick’s Day Tournament Pro Shop Sanctioned Event
March 23 Modified Nassau
March 30 Low Gross/Low Net
April 6 Scramble Awards Lunch
April 13 Low Gross/Low Net
April 20 Low Gross/Low Net
April 27 Fun Day Party after play in Pavilion
*20% participation required for major tournament eligibility
Linda Bouvet Tournament Chair
Pam Nalley 2025 LGA Champion
Dawn England LGA President
Mikki Dodge and Nancy Matroniano 2025 Member Member Champions
Roy Houtby Tournament Chair
2025 / 2026
Golf Membership Program
Register At The Golf Shop - Program Effective 10/1/25
TGO Resident
Non-TGO Resident
All Prices are subject to 7% sales tax
Prices include unlimited golf course play and cart use when playing golf (blackout dates may apply). Couple pricing includes up to two (2) children 18 and under still living at home. Additional children are $250 each plus tax
Refer a new member and receive a complimentary 18 hole round for a guest New Member Criteria Not on the active member list the past two programs
Not an employee the past three calendar years (2022-present)
** Referral must be stated prior to payment being made
Membership Benefits
• Golf Shop Merchandise Discounts - 20% on Tops/Bottoms- 10% on Accessories and Equipment Merchandise discounts are applied to original tagged prices. Special sale items may not have member prices.
• Reduced individual range coin pricing. Currently 50%
• TGO Bag Tag or Name Strip if a renewing member
• Complimentary Guest Passes - Based on chosen category of membership 9 and 12 month: SGL =2 Passes CPL = 3 Passes 4 & 6 Months: SGL = 1 Pass CPL = 2 Passes
NEW - Hospitality House Account Credit at Blue Heron
• Each membership will receive a House Account at the Blue Heron that includes Charging privileges - Plus: 9 & 12 Month Memberships will receive a one-time $70 for SGL or $100 for CPL credit to their accounts 4 & 6 Month Memberships will receive a one-time $40 for SGL or $70 for CPL credit to their accounts
• All accounts will be invoiced at the end of each month via email provided at sign up
• All accounts are to be paid in full within 15 days to keep your account active
• Existing golf members may stop by the CSA office to open a House Account but are not elegible for SGL or CPL credits until membership is renewed.
Complimentary USGA GHIN Handicap Service if requested (Service begins 1/1/26)
Add-On Range Program - Unlimited Range Use
• Must match selected membership program - (number of months) and be purchased at time of membership Single = $55 Per Month Couple = $80 Per Month
There are currently no lifetime memberships available.
The Great Outdoors Golf Course 137 Plantation Drive, Titusville, Florida 32780 • 321-269-5524 x2 • tgogolfpro@tgocsa.com www.thegreatoutdoorsgolf.com
They come with an Eight Year Warranty! They also include a new charger, battery meter, and receptacle.
Cost including installation is only $2,200 plus tax.
Stop by if you have any questions.
BattLite is a high-quality, safe, and reliable lithium battery designed primarily for golf carts. They utilize LiFePO4 (lithium iron phosphate) technology, incorporating safety features such as multiple levels of protection and an intelligent Battery Management System (BMS).
We also carry 2025 Certified pre-owned Club Cars starting at $7,995, includes a 2 year Warranty!
Open Mon thru Fri - 8:00 am to 4:30 pm • Sat - 9:00 am to Noon • Closed Sunday
The Great Outdoors Ladies Golf Association 9th Annual Breast Cancer Tournament Monday, October 20
Proceeds Benefit the Jess Parrish Medical Foundation
• Four Person, 18 Hole Scramble Format
• Golf Cart Included
• Lunch with Cash Bar
• Prizes for Course Events
• 50/50 Raffle, Basket Raffles, Mulligans
• This Event is Open to Everyone
forms available at Pro
Sponsorship Packages Available - Contact Lynne Anderson at 757-406-0687
Supporting Parrish Healthcare Oncology in providing lifesaving mammograms for uninsured and underinsured patients in North Brevard
Attention Current and Future LGA Members
The LGA is excited to kick off the 2025-2026 season on Monday, October 6. Membership applications will be emailed for current members. New members applications can be found online at www.thegreatoutdoorsgolf.com or in the Pro Shop or by contacting Vicky Hunter, Membership Chair (vickyhunter58@gmail.com) or Dawn England, President (dawnengland@live.com) with questions or for more information.
Come Join The Fun! The Ladies Golf Association is a great group to be involved with. Make new friends. Get some excercise. Enjoy the sport of Golf.
LGA - September 22
Team Shamble - 2 Better Ball
1st Lynne Anderson 34
Beth Conyer
Pat Hackenberg
Cindy Ehresman
2nd Susan Jensen 24
Janet Facer
Cindy Clark
Draw (Beth Conyer)
Closest to Hole #11 Susan Jensen
LGA - September 29
Match Play Challenge
Singles matches against the field
Matches Won
1st Pat Hackenberg 9
2nd Coletta Gabele 8
3rd Susan Jensen 7
4th Lydia Couch 6
Closest to Hole #16 Lydia Couch
MGA- September 17 Individual Nassau
Chuck’s
Happy Halloween Couples In Costume
All TGO Members, Residents and Their Guests are Invited to Play
YOUR HOSTS: Chuck & Lu Ann Kandt
Remember these costumes from the 2023 tournament?
Saturday, November 1 7:00am to Noon
Time to clean out those garages and storage units!
October 15 - 3:00pm - The Manor
Board Of Directors Meeting
All TGO Residents are invited to attend.
October 16 - 12 to 1:00pm - The Manor
Spine & Pain Center Seminar
All TGO Residents are invited to attend. Complimentary lunch and beverages will be served. See page 13 for reservation details.
October 17 - 3:00pm - Blue Heron Nest
Seminar By Orthopedic Dr. Sands
All TGO Residents are invited to attend. Refreshments will be served. See page 15 for reservation details.
October 19 - TGO Community Church
Operation Christmas Child - Kick Off
This is a great cause to help children in need - brought to you by the Samaritan’s Purse and TGO Church. See page 27 for details.
October 20 - 8:00am - Golf Shop
LGA Breast Cancer Tournament
This annual event benefits the Jess Parrish Medical Foundation. Register to play at the Golf Shop. Contact Lynne Anderson for sponsorship opportunities at 757-406-0687.
October 21 - 1:00pm - The Manor
Activities Committee Meeting
All TGO Residents are invited to attend. This is the first meeting of the Season - Here is your opportunity to get involved with this great volunteer oganization.
October 26 - 3:00 to 5:30pm
Trick or Treat in TGO - See Page 14
All TGO owners/renters and employees are invited
October 29 - 1:00 to 4:00pm - The Manor
Happenings Business Expo
Meet The Advertisers In The Happenings. All TGO Residents are invited to attend. Chance to win some great door prizes.
October 31 - 2:00 to 4:00pm - CSA Office
Halloween Open House - Pumpkin Carving Contest
All TGO Residents are invited to attend. Enter the Pumpkin Carving Contest - 1st, 2nd 3rd place prizes. See info this page.
November 1 - 7:00am - Noon
Community Yard Sale - Get Your Junk Ready!
All TGO Residents - Grab your carts and go buy stuff!
November 8 - 8:00am - The Manor
Artisian Market - Arts, Crafts & Food
All TGO Residents are invited to attend.
November 13 - 7:30pm - The Manor
The Edge Effect - First Show of the season!
Tickets Available at the Activities Center in Hobbyland.
November 14 & 15 - 4:30pm - The Manor
Two Nights - Trivia I & II
Tickets Available at the Activities Center in Hobbyland.
November 23 - 10:00am - TGO Church
Tribute Quartet in Concert
All TGO Residents are invited to attend. Refreshments will be served afterward.
December 3 - 7:00pm - TGO Church
Christmas Cantata
All TGO Residents are invited to attend. Refreshments will be served afterward.
December 4 - 3:30pm - Rally Parking Lot
Golf Cart Parade - Pizza Afterwards
All TGO Residents are invited to attend. 1st, 2nd & 3rd place prizes for Best Decorated Carts. Details in future issues.
October 31 -2:00 to 4:00 pm
Halloween Open House - CSA Offices
The CSA office is hosting a Halloween Open House from 2:00 to 4:00 pm on Friday, October 31. Grab your trick-or-treat bag from the front office and collect candy at each office on your tour!
Pumpkin Carving Contest
Limiting entries to 30 pumpkins. Pumpkins must be brought to the CSA office between 10:00 am and 1:00 pm on October 31. Call 321-268-9767 to reserve your space. Prizes for 1st, 2nd & 3rd place!
Many
Intracept®
mild® – for Lumbar Stenosis
Faster recovery
Lasting relief
Attention All TGO Residents
Our next Community Election will be held on January 26, 2026 and we need your support. Here is what we will be voting on:
1) Candidates for Districts 0, 2, 4, 6 & 8 for both the Board of Directors and the Architectural Review Committee (ARC).
2) We will also be holding a Special Election for the ARC Chairman position as well as a replacement for the District 5 ARC position.
3) ALSO... The Election Committee is looking for members. Please consider volunteering for this important position!
If you are interested in volunteering for any of these positions, please contact Vicki Littlefield, Chairperson of the Election Committee, at 207-798-2278. Step Up. Pitch In. Help Keep Our Community Strong!
Sunday, Oct 26 - 3:00 - 5:30 pm
For Those Handing Out Treats
Starting at noon Friday, Oct 10, please visit my porch at 542 Fairways Dr. to sign up and take a numbered Pumpkin Stake. If you wish to gather in a group to hand out treats, please note the address on the sign-up sheet and estimate how many will be in your group at that address. The sign-up sheet provides for this new option.
On the day of the event, place your pumpkin stake at your curb so the kids will know you are participating. I suggest planning for approximately 75 treats. After the event, we will pick up the pumpkin stakes from the curb.
Kids Looking For Treats
Send an email to ecrtwright1@gmail.com to let me know how many kids will be in your group. I will send back an email no later than Sunday Noon on 10/26 listing the locations to visit on 10/26. The activity is open to children or relatives of TGO owners/renters and TGO employees. Please be courteous and have fun!!!
Ellen Cartwright: 542 Fairways Dr. ecrtwright1@gmail.com 248-330-7691
Bruce Sande, 81, of Titusville, FL, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 10, 2025. He was born on September 14, 1943, in New Haven, CT. Bruce was an accomplished businessman and real estate investor whose professional success was matched by only by his love for life’s adventures. He enjoyed exploring the outdoors, traveling, camping, and boating. Bruce and wife Marie, moved to TGO in 2004. Bruce is survived by his wife, three children, six grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
A service was held August 14 at Our Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery in Royal Palm Beach, FL.
In Memoriam Bruce Sande
Join Us for an Exclusive Seminar with
Orthopaedic Surgeon Dr. Kenneth Sands
At The Blue Heron Restaurant - Nest 137 Plantation Drive, Titusville, FL 32780
Friday, October 17 - 3:00 pm Light refreshments will be served
Dr. Sands will speak about and why you shouldn’t let Joint Pain keep you from doing the things you love.
Dr. Kenneth Sands is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon. A pioneer in advanced joint replacement technique. His specialties include:
• Hip replacements (anterior and revision)
• Knee replacements (kinematic, partial and revision)
• Knee arthroscopy
• Open reduction internal fixation for hip fractures
Dr. Sands earned a bachelor’s degree from Duke University and received his medical degree from Tulane University in New Orleans. He completed an orthopedic surgery residency at SUNY Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn and a fellowship in adult joint reconstruction at the Florida Orthopaedic Institute in Tampa.
He is a diplomate of the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery. His professional memberships include the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons and American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. He is actively involved in implant design and education and has delivered presentations at national and international conferences. He is a former staff surgeon for the U.S. Army.
Dr. Sands has cared for patients in Central Florida since 2011. He believes mobility is the key to a healthy life and is passionate about helping patients restore their function.
Wednesday, October 29 - 1:00 to 4:00 pm Inside The Manor
Introducing The Automated Door App for Fitness Center, Hobby Land and The Juke Box
The Great Outdoors is excited to announce that CSA will be using the pdk.io App and Fob for the automated doors at the Fitness Center, Hobby Land and The Juke Box. The transition will begin after Labor Day weekend. As we transition to the new system, CSA requests that you call to make an appointment by calling CSA at 321-268-9767. Recreation Doors will be open for regular business hours as usual each day, no Fob or App needed during those hours. For after hours, the current key will still be functioning for entry until we conclude our transition. Please be patient as we transition, CSA will accommodate all residents as they return to The Great Outdoors through the Fall busy season. There are two options:
1) Schedule your appointment, exchange key for the new Fob that we activate at our CSA Office. If you don’t have a key, you may purchase a Fob for $20.00 and activate it with us in the CSA office.
2) Schedule an appointment and return your key for a $10.00 refund and activate your pdk.io App for Free. We will ask you a few questions, you will download the FREE pdk.io App on your cell phone. Our CSA office will activate the App and pdk.io will send an invitation to your email for you to activate. You will set up your own access on your cell phone with the code they send you to activate the App. You can then use your cell phone for access and use after hours. Even easier, if no key to exchange - CSA can gather your information and send you the invitation. You can set it up yourself on your cell phone at your convenience.
Executive
Porch Conversions
Accessory Buildings
Custom Building & Design
Bath & Kitchen Remodeling
Door & Window Replacement
Hardwood Floors
Tile Floors
Concrete Work
Drywall
Custom Decks
Entertainment Centers
Siding
Trim Work
Crown Molding And...
Pictures are Susan Jensen Breast Cancer Tournament Chair, Dawn England, LGA President and Christy Rimsky, Jess Parrish Medical Foundation.
Editorial by Linda Day - Photos By Nancy Clark
Sandhill Cranes
The Majestic, Regal Members of Our Community
Catching sight of one of TGO’s spectacular sandhill crane families is always an exciting part of our day. These stately birds move throughout our community, and captivate us with their distinctive “cluck” type call. As a threatened species, we are fortunate to have them among us as their numbers are slowly disappearing.
Our
BETTY SALTER TAKES THE HELM AS NATURE CENTER PRESIDENT
The Nature Center at The Great Outdoors is pleased to announce Betty Salter as the center’s new president. Betty brings a wealth of knowledge, personal contacts and experience to the Nature Center, with an impressive background in education, wildlife knowledge, and groundbreaking work at the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge. Here at TGO she dedicates tireless work as a TGO Wildlife Rescue and Nature Center Trail Guide, and spent years rescuing wildlife at TGO and the surrounding area. She has also led the Nature Center Trail hikes every Monday and Wednesday during “the season” for over 10 years.
A DEDICATED VOLUNTEER
TGO Sandhill Crane Families - by Nancy Clark
There are two families with long histories of traditional nesting areas. One nest site is near the front of the community, while the second site is near Grande Haven Drive.
tours, and to re-introduce golf cart tours of the Blue Heron Water Treatment Plant. Betty realizes many of our TGO residents work during the week, and she hopes to have Saturday morning hikes and more weekend programs.
Through the years the two pairs have raised many young offspring.
TGO Resident and Wildlife Rehabber Nancy Clark is truly passionate about sandhill cranes and all wildlife. She shares her heartfelt stories of these amazing birds.
A true life-learner, Betty’s passion is to share the joy of nature with others, whether it’s knowledge of plants, wildlife, wildlife rescue and preservation, or simply the general love of being outdoors.
For the past several years, I’ve had the privilege of following the sandhill cranes that make their home here at The Great Outdoors. My journey with them began not out of curiosity alone, but out of concern.
Betty’s career began in education, where she was with the school board and an exceptional education teacher assistant. In 1999 she began working for Parks and Recreation, North Area Parks Operation Office, where she initiated many innovative programs. She and her late husband Cary retired in February
Sandhill crane fossils have been dated back as far as 10 million years. Today, they live in freshwater marshes, prairies and pastures. Florida sandhill cranes can be found throughout peninsular Florida, and north to southern Georgia. Florida’s Kissimmee area is home to the state’s largest populations. They are members of the nearly extinct whooping crane - a bird which is being reintroduced to Florida.
Betty has devoted over 7,000 hours of volunteer time to the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. A friend at the refuge encouraged her to consider living in TGO. Betty and Cary moved to The Great Outdoors in October of 2014, and immediately became immersed with The Nature Center. Betty had known Sandy Juba for some time, as Sandy volunteered at the refuge as well. Their great friendship and desire to rescue and teach others about wildlife and nature took off from there.
Sandhill cranes have a mostly herbaceous diet, but they have a wide range of food interests. They feed on seeds, grain, peanuts, berries, insects, earthworms, mice, small birds, snakes, lizards, frogs, and crayfish.
One of the male cranes from the family that nested near our front gate was struck by a vehicle. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) responded, reminding us that sandhill cranes are protected—harming them is a serious offense under state and federal law. Sadly, the same crane was struck again, leaving him with a broken wing.
At that time, Sandy Juba and I decided the best thing we could do was simply let the family be. The parents had two young colts, and both were needed for their survival. What amazed me most was the strength and determination of that injured male crane. Despite his condition, he never gave up. He continued to care for his family, a living example of perseverance and devotion.
Betty jokes that one of the first steps to get involved with wildlife rescue, at Sandy’s insistence, was to overcome her fear of snakes. After researching snakes for many months and creating brochures about them, she overcame her fears, and has frequently rescued many of them! She also became very active with Firewise. Betty initiated the Spring Festival at the Nature Center. She previously developed large festivals for the county and wanted to develop a smaller festival here. Sandy Juba gave Betty a list of local vendors to contact, and the annual festival was launched, continues to grow and become a fund
NATIVE FLORA AND FAUNA
Sandhill cranes mate for life, and their bond begins at age two when they engage in a beautiful mating dance. Both Sandhill crane parents build a nest with grass, moss, and sticks. The female lays two-three eggs that incubate for 32 days and both parents help to incubate. In just 24 hours, the hatchlings will travel from the nest with their parents. The babies or “colts” will stay with the patents until they are 10 months old.
Over time, what began as checking in on an injured animal grew into something much deeper. I became fascinated by the incredible bond between sandhill cranes. These birds mate for life, and their dedication to one another and to their young is remarkable.
Photo was taken immediately after Betty rescued this fawn from drowning. The fawn was reunited with its mother shortly after. (Note: Betty says one should never touch a fawn - she was holding this one as it was just rescued from the water.)
In the years since, I have watched these families face challenges, setbacks, and triumphs. One year, after an accident near the gate where a resident’s car flipped, the crane family was forced to move their colts earlier than expected. Tragically, one was lost to traffic, and the other failed to thrive. Yet the following year, I witnessed an extraordinary story of resilience.
Betty’s nature expertise includes extensive studies of native Florida plants and insects. One of her many butterfly studies led to the discovery of new species not known to our area. (The Variegated Fritillary was not known to be in Brevard County and the Eastern Pygmy Blue was not expected to be west of I-95 but we have it in the marsh here!) Betty’s goals are to develop programs to get more people involved with the nature center’s
PLANS FOR THE NATURE CENTER
Ideas she plans to implement include nature golf cart tours in the community, Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival bird
The Florida sandhill crane can reach a height of 47 inches, and has a wingspan of about 78 inches. The average weight is about 7-8 pounds for females and 8-10 pounds for males. They can live for 20-30 years in the wild, with the oldest on record living for 37 years.
One of the colts from that season had an injured wing and couldn’t fly when the time came to leave the nest. Instead of leaving the chick behind, the father crane stayed with it, patiently protecting and guiding it, while the mother took the stronger colt to learn to fly. Later, when the father’s colt had healed enough, the
Betty Salter on the Betty Salter trail January 8, discussing a recently shedded snake skin. From right: Julie Gifford, Cindy Hinkle, Sandra Miraglia, Betty Salter, Kim Mosely. Photo credit Linda Day
Photo by Linda Day
Beautiful pair of Florida sandhill cranes (Grus canadensis). Sandhill cranes mate for life, and are listed as “threatened” by Florida Fish Wildlifeand Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Pair of sandhill cranes with their tiny young colt following behind. Offspring stay with parents for 10 months before going on their own.
mother returned and taught it to fly as well. In time, both colts left, and the parents remained healthy and strong.
CELEBRATE GOPHER TORTOISE DAY!
This year, once again, the pair at the front of the park welcomed two beautiful colts in May. As of now, both young ones are thriving under the watchful care of their devoted parents.
The Nature Center at TGO will celebrate Gopher Tortoise Day with TGO NatureScape at Tortoiseville (accessible on the Doggie Walk) on Thursday, April 10 from 3 to 6 p.m.
Last year the tortoises were very active! We will have a tent with information where you can learn all about this keystone species -one of the oldest living species on the planet!
GUIDED TRAIL HIKES / LIGHT TRAIL MAINTENANCE
The end of March wraps up our busy season at TGO. There will be fewer scheduled trail activities, however feel free to contact Brian and he’ll be happy to take anyone for a hike. The trails are in great shape and the dry season helps immensely with mosquitos so it’s a great time of year for hikes!
DID YOU KNOW…
Watching these families has been a gift. They remind us of the importance of resilience, of family bonds, and of protecting the wildlife that shares our community. The sandhill cranes are not just birds we pass by on our way out of the gate—they are a living part of The Great Outdoors, and their story continues to unfold right here with us.
May 27 is the average start to our rainy season in Florida, so the St. Johns river is very low now, opening up lots of nearby hiking and mountain biking!
• Sandhill cranes are protected by Federal and State Law. It is illegal to harm, harass, or feed them.
To volunteer, for questions, or for more information, contact Brian Grande at 407-766-7867 or SkinDvr2000@yahoo.com.
TGO POSSUM RESCUE EFFORT
• Sandhill cranes are a threatened species in Florida due to habitat loss.
• Sandhill cranes mate for life and stay together year-round.
• Their young are called colts and can walk and feed themselves within 24 hours of hatching.
Special thanks to Nancy Clark and Sandy Juba (Animal Rescue Committee) for their help March 19 & 20. After a concert at the Manor, Donna Pittman came upon an injured opossum who sadly was left for dead in the road. The opossum was bleeding and struggling. Donna called Nancy, who quickly came to its rescue. Nancy gave the sweet possum
• Families stay together for up to 10 months, until the next breeding season.
• Sandhill cranes can live over 20 years in the wild.
Nature Center Board
Vice President Donna Pittman ncvp23@gmail.com
comfort overnight, and the next day Sandy took it to a rehabber in Christmas. The rehabber discovered the female possum had a broken jaw, with injured babies in its pouch. Sadly, the mother had to be euthanized and two babies are clinging to life. We are heartbroken about the outcome for this sweet family of opossums, but grateful for compassionate people among us
The Florida sandhill crane is protected by the U.S. Migratory Bird Treaty Act and as a State-designated Threatened species by Florida’s Endangered and Threatened Species Rule. This is due to habitat loss by draining wetlands. Sadly, breeding populations have now disappeared from coastal Texas, Alabama, and southern Louisiana due to habitat loss and overhunting.
Sadly, One of this Year’s Colts has Tragically Died!
SPECIAL TORTOISEVILLE ADVENTURE
While little Lucy Antichos was visiting Grandma Sarah Sennett, she took several nature tours. On one tour they stopped at Tortoiseville, where a tortoise posed with her for a picture.
Photo by Sarah Stennett
A few weeks ago, a TGO resident stopped to wait for a sandhill family to cross the road. The vehicle behind her impatiently swerved around her, hit the baby colt, AND NEVER STOPPED OR LOOKED BACK! Yes, we have heartbreaking cruelty here in our community. Nature Center volunteers went through the gut-wrenching actions of delivering the poor bird to a rehabber, where it sadly died from its injuries. One could hear the parents calling for their young colt for weeks afterwards. Members of our community who are feeding them - you are causing cranes to cross roads to get to the various feed stations, adding to their danger.
PLEASE - SLOW DOWN and STOP FEEDING THEM.
President Bet ty Salter ncpresident23@gmail.com
Treasurer Loretta Annè nctreasurer23@gmail.com
Secretary Pat Dick ncsecretary23@gmail.com
Other Points Of Contact
Injured Animals - Please contact these specialists
Sandy Juba 321-543-0502 sjubatgo@gmail.com
Betty Salter 321-223-8073 bet tysalter@hotmail.com
Stories and Articles for The Happenings: nchappenings23@gmail.com
The Nature Center at The Great Outdoors is a 501(c)(3) non-profit self-supporting organization. Donations may be tax deductible.
NATURE CENTER AT TGO
400 Nature Center Trail, Titusville, FL 32780
Open 8:00 am to 5:00 pm 365 days a year
www.NatureCenterAtTGO.org
Facebook - Nature Center at TGO
To schedule the use of our meeting room on M/W/F mornings or T/Th afternoons, call the Manor - 321-264-2393
To schedule the meeting room at any other time OR our beautiful enclosed porch, call Loretta Annè - 321-385-9667
Florida Fish Wildlife and Wildlife Conservation Commission officer at TGO after a sandhill crane was struck by a car. It is illegal to harm, harass or feed them.
TGO FIREWISE INFORMATION
RESIDENTS REDUCING WILDFIRE RISKS
Visit tgocsa.org to view Firewise video and brochure or TGO Firewise on Facebook
Remember, you must have written permission to remove any living shrubs or trees beyond your property line. Contact CSA if you have questions about removal and consult the Architectural Review Board before making landscape changes.
Fire Prevention Week
By Ed Brown
On October 8, 1871, a small fire of unknown origin started in the southeast portion of Chicago, Illinois. There are several ideas as to how the fire actually started from Mrs. O’Leary’s cow kicking over a lantern to a man, Peglin Sullivan, knocking over a lantern looking for beer for a party. Regardless of how the fire originated, it burned from October 8 until the 11th, killed more than 250 people, left 100,00 residents homeless, destroyed 17,000 structures, and burned more than 2,000 acres of land. To commemorate the fire that made the nation aware of exactly how deadly uncontrolled fire can be, Fire Prevention Day was established on October 8, 1920. In 1925 President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed it a national observance. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and other organizations now observe the week that includes October 8-11 as National Fire Prevention Week.
This year, National Fire Prevention Week will be October 5 thru October 11, 2025. Each year the NFPA provides a theme for the week. Fire departments and fire related organizations across the country use this theme for their fire prevention education during this week. This year the theme is CHARGE into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home. Everyone has heard the name Lithium-Ion, and it has become commonplace in most homes and businesses. They are used in smartphones, tablets, watches, power and lawn tools, laptops, e-cigarettes, RVs, golf carts, headphones, and toys to name a few. While they are powerful, convenient and provide power for these devices, if not used correctly or are damaged, they can overheat and start a fire or explode.
Here are three key messages from NFPA about Lithium-Ion batteries that you should remember:
1. Buy only listed products.
a. When buying an item that uses a lithium-Ion battery, research it and look for a stamp from a nationally recognized testing lab on the package and the product. This tells you it meets established safety standards.
b. Many of the products sold in stores and available online may not meet safety standards and could increase the risk of fire.
2. Charge your devices safely.
a. Always use the cable and the charging device that came with the item, as well as follow the manufacturers’ instructions on proper charging.
b. If you need a new charger, buy one from the manufacturer or one that is approved by the manufacturer.
c. Charge the device on a hard surface. Do not place the device under a pillow, on a bed or fabric/leather chair. The heat given off during charging could start a fire.
d. Do not overcharge the device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it is fully charged.
3. Dispose or/Recycle batteries responsibly.
a. Do not throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or in regular recycling bins because they could catch fire.
b. Recycling your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location is the best way to dispose of them. Visit www.cal2recycle.org for information on a location near you. The Brevard County Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center at 3600 South Street in Titusville will take lithium-ion batteries, however they have a limit of 10.
Call 321-409-9430 if you have questions.
By following these suggestions, you can enjoy the benefits of these power sources and limit the potential for fire related issues. Have a fire safe Fire Prevention Week. Be Firewise, Be Safe!
Firewise Committee - Contact Information
Butch Jones Chairman 804-514-4458
Christopher Miller Co-Chairman 407-375-8310
Tim Graham 561-262-8833
Donald Payne 407-222-0583
Ed Brown 321-383-8253
Mike Lavery 585-315-5554
Ron
Albert McGuire
810-338-5646
Fire Prevention Tips Every Homeowner Should Know
Check Smoke Alarms – Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on each level of your home. Test monthly and replace batteries yearly.
Inspect Electrical Cords – Replace frayed, damaged, or overloaded cords. Avoid running cords under rugs or furniture.
Mind Your Outlets – Don’t overload outlets or power strips. Unplug appliances when not in use.
Keep the Kitchen Safe – Stay in the kitchen when cooking, especially when using high heat. Keep flammable items (towels, paper, curtains) away from the stovetop.
Maintain Heating Equipment – Have furnaces, chimneys, and fireplaces inspected and cleaned annually. Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything flammable.
Practice Candle Safety – Never leave candles burning unattended. Use flameless LED alternatives when possible.
Store Flammables Properly – Keep gasoline, paint, and cleaning products in approved containers away from heat sources.
Check Dryer Vents – Clean the lint filter before and after each load, and inspect/clean dryer vents regularly.
Plan & Practice an Escape – Create a home fire escape plan with two ways out of every room. Practice it twice a year with everyone in your household.
Stay Alert with Smoking Materials – If you smoke, do so outside. Use sturdy ashtrays and ensure cigarettes are completely extinguished before disposal.
Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors – Many house fires also produce carbon monoxide. Make sure detectors are installed and tested regularly.
Check Your Fire Extinguishers – Keep at least one multi-purpose extinguisher in an accessible spot (kitchen, garage, near exits) and ensure everyone knows how to use it.
Clear Outdoor Hazards – Trim back trees/shrubs near the house, keep the roof and gutters free of leaves, and store firewood at least 30 feet away from your home.
Check Your House Numbers – Make sure your address is clearly visible from the street, day and night, so emergency responders can find you quickly.
Your Full Service Salon for Over 28 Years
We Have a Professional Stylist for All Your Needs
Located in the CSA Office Building
Experienced and Professional Hair Design for Both Men and Women
• Dimensional Hair Color • Foil Highlighting and Lowlighting
• Waxing - Facial Only • Spa Pedicures • Gel Manicures
Give us a call, we have openings for hair appointments
We now offer Fairy Hair
Jennifer Stevenson, Owner/Master Stylist
Tuesday through Friday - 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Jackie Moore, Licensed Cosmetologist Tuesday through Friday - 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sowandy Palma, Hair & Nails Tuesday, Thursday & Friday - 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Deloris Fox, Nail Technician
Tuesday through Friday - 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Tuesday through Friday • 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Appointment Hours Can Vary
Deloris Jennifer Jackie Sowandy
Activities Events 2025-2026
November 8 Saturday Artisian Market
November 13 Thursday The Edge Effect
November 14 Friday Trivia I
November 15 Saturday Trivia II
December 4 Thursday Golf Cart Parade
2026
January 15 Thursday Rhinestone Cowgirls
January 17 Saturday Sock Hop Social *
January 29 Thursday The Boulevards
February 6 Friday Trivia I
February 7 Saturday Trivia II
February 7 Saturday Parrish Healthcare 5K Walk/Run
February 21 Saturday Line Dance Social
February 26 Thursday Crystal Stark & Adam Ferrara
March 19 Thursday Boy Band Evolution
Concert Dates in Bold. Other events to be added throughout the year.
* Looking for a Chairperson
Monthly Activities Meeting
Our next meeting is October 21, 2025 at 1:00 pm in the Plantation Manor. Everyone is welcome.
Activities Committee Points of Contact
Carmella Zielinski 321-289-0150 tmcmzie@gmail.com
Pat Foley 407-538-8035 patfoley441@gmail.com
Ruth Falusi 219-670-1111 falusirr@yahoo.com
NOTE: The TGO Tickets & Gift Shop in Hobbyland will reopen in October 2025
2025-2026 Concert Series Sponors
Mackey’s Home Renovations
Atlantic Storm Protection Eagle’s Pride RV Sales & Service
Gary L Torres DMD, PA JAD Family Pharmacy
Parrish Medical Center
Starling’s Auto Group, Inc TGO Realty, Inc
A Great Line Up Of Shows For The
2025-26 Season!
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2025 - 7:30 PM
Performing songs by Michael Bublé, Frank Sinatra, Chicago, Michael Jackson and more
THURSDAY, JANUARY 15, 2026 - 7:30 PM
Powerhouse Singers - Classics and Contemporary
THURSDAY, JANUARY 29, 2026 - 7:30 PM
VINTAGE ROCK & ROLL - ‘50s & ‘60s Expert Musicians - High Energy Entertainers!
American Idol Finalist Tribute to Ladies Of Song
THURSDAY
FEBRUARY 26, 2026 - 7:30 PM
Comedian and Actor ADAM FERRARA
“Hilarious” says Entertainment Weekly
BOY BAND EVOLUTION
THURSDAY MARCH 19, 2026 - 7:30 PM
Barber Shop Quartets to Modern Hits Tight Harmonies - Queen, The Eagles
An Interdenominational Christian Church
SUNDAY
WORSHIP SERVICE
10:00 am
Watch the LIVESTREAM on our Church Website: www.tgochurch.org
Dr. David Price
Lead Pastor
J.B. Kump
Minister, Small Groups, Visitation and Retreats
Dan Zahn
Minister of Prayer & Visitation
321-383-0303
Richard Harleman Director of Music
Nancy Reinish Director of Bells
Leanne Craig
Office Administrator
Georgi Zeigler
Administrative Assistant Send e-mail to: info@tgochurch.org www.tgochurch.org
Watch Bible Study and Services
Pastor David’s Bible Study is LIVESTREAMING on Thursday mornings at 10:00 am on the church website: tgochurch.org. In-person bible study is 11:00 am in the Fellowship Hall.
If you miss the livestream of any service, you can watch it from our website: tgochurch.org by clicking on the Resources tab at the top of the homepage, then click on Archived Videos to find the service.
Pastor Dan Zahn’s Bible Study
Year-round on Thursday evenings at 6:30 pm by Zoom. Contact Pastor Dan for the link at 321-446-7966.
Ray Z’s Bible Class Starts October 6 at 11:00 in Fellowship Hall.
Calling ALL Singles - Join us for fun events!
The SINGULARS of Great Outdoors Community Church are continuing their enjoyable schedule. Get on the email distribution list for all the events for this group. Send your email, with the subject line “Singulars Email” to: info@tgochurch.org or call the church office at 321-383-0303 to keep up on the latest news for the Singulars. Please contact our coordinator Pastor J.B. Kump at: 321-543-1608 or email: jb.kump@gmail.com.
Memory Garden Open to All TGO Residents
Interested in a Memory Walk Paver or Columbarium Niche? Inquire at The Great Outdoors Community Church - 321-383-0303. Monday 11:00 am - 1:00 pm, Tuesday - Friday 9:00 am - 1:00 pm.
Listen to Verse by Verse
With David Price on WPIO 89.3 FM every Monday - Friday at 4:40 pm and 9:13 pm
Prayer Shawl Ministry
Prayer Shawl Ministry meets on the 2nd and 4th Friday of each month from November through April and meets in the Narthex. Contact Rosalind Zahn for more information at 321-446-7968.
Great Outdoors Community Church has a ministry that provides services to TGO residents. The areas of support and their points-of-contact are as follows: Home Repairs Heidi Turner 321-514-3719 hsturner44@gmail.com
Lending Closet Jeff Craig 248-880-7462 jcraig26@protonmail.com
Temporary Meals Clariece Lewis 321-693-9864 clariece13@gmail.com County Services Bev Houghton 810-919-1629 bhoughto10@hotmail.com
Transportation Charlie Wood 847-609-1222 charliewood847@gmail.com
Operation Christmas Child 2025 starts October 19
For additional gift ideas and more, visit samaritanspurse.org/occ
More details coming in our Sunday bulletins.
Shoeboxes will be available in Narthex Sunday, October 19
Shoeboxes to be completed and delivered to: Fellowship Hall By Sunday, November 23
For all questions, please reach out to: Mary Selby 941-713-5555 Jan Lundeberg 763-221-1605
Be A Good Human
If you have food or clothing that you would like to donate, these are the locations our TGO Church recommends. There are a lot of local people in need.
Titusville Food & Clothing
Donation Locations
SPCA Thrift Store
4220 S. Washington Ave.
321-267-2210
Hours: Monday - Saturday - 9:00 am - 8:00 pm
Sunday - 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
North Brevard Charities
4475 S. Hopkins Ave.
321-269-6555
Hours: Monday - Friday - 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Saturday - 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sunday - 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Women’s Center Upscale Resale Store
3216 S. Hopkins Ave.
321-362-5885
Hours: Tuesday - Saturday - 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Food Drop-Off - Fresh & Staples
Liberty Lodge Ministries
4150 Mt. Sterling Ave. 321-264-0757
Hours: Monday - Friday - 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Saturday & Sunday - closed
• Tow Set-Up
• Hitch Installation
• Braking Systems
• Shock/Sumos Installation
• Motorcycle Lift
• Awning Installation and Repair
• Air Conditioning/Furnace
• Lithium/solar upgrades
• Refrigerator Repair and Installation
• Satellite Dishes and Electrical
• Full RV Collision Repair
• We Work with All Insurance Companies
• Extended Warranty Work
• Warranty and Recall Work on Most Manufacturers
Eagle’s Pride RV Service & Parts - 108C Plantation Drive, Titusville, FL 32780
Open Monday - Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Call or email us... 321-383-0288 or eaglespriderv@yahoo.com RVs, Motorhomes, 5th Wheels and Travel Trailers Annual Services: Lube, Oil, All Fluids, Filters, Batteries, Generators and More!
• We Buy RVs, 5th Wheels and Travel Trailers • We Accept Trade-Ins • We Consign RVs • We Can Provide Financing • We Sell Warranties • RVs Are Always Plugged in with Air Conditioning On • We Provide Free RV Appraisals • We Have a 24 Hour Security Guard with Cameras Eagle’s Pride RV Sales - 98 Plantation Drive, Titusville, FL 32780 Open Monday - Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Saturday 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Hooked on Florida, Family, and The Great Outdoors
Mike O’neal
Mike O’Neal has been a familiar face around The Great Outdoors for more than two decades. As the Supervisor of Lawn and Maintenance, he’s the guy who keeps the grounds looking their best and ensures the community stays well cared for. But there’s more to Mike than mowers and hedge trimmers - he’s a lifelong Floridian with a passion for fishing, hunting, and sharing the outdoors with his family. In this Q&A, Mike provides us a close up look at his background, his work at TGO, and his love for the simple pleasures of life in Florida.
Well, Mike, tell us a bit about your background. Where were you born? Grew up, etc?
I was born at Parrish Hospital, right here in Titusville. Raised in Mims, and I’ve lived here ever since.
That definitely makes you a true Floridian. Which high school did you go to? Play any sports?
Astronaut High School. Yeah. Didn’t play any sports, but I loved to hunt and fish. Really like river fishing, caught a lot of redfish, participated in a lot of local tournaments... bass fishing tournaments. Did some ocean fishing also. Back then it was something I did every day after school - mainly catch and release. I still like to fish a lot, I take my wife and kids with me whenever I can.
You mentioned hunting - what for?
Mainly hogs - some deer. There’s not a whole lot else in Florida. The deer hunting in Florida is totally different than up north - which is way better than here. I mean, you just, it’s so hot here. I did some deer hunting up north. My family had land in Tennessee, so I was able to go up there. During season, we would shoot some dove and deer - not a whole lot else. My wife and her son like to duck hunt out on the refuge and lagoon.
Now tell us about your wife - Jillian, correct? You guys met at TGO, right?
Met in September of 2021 and just married January this year. Jillian used to work out here, she was head of beautification for a little bit. She has a son named Dylan and a daughter named Madyson. Dylan really likes to fish, so we fish together a lot. We actually all like to go fishing and hunting as a family.
So, let’s back up a bit - after high school did you continue on to college?
No. Right after high school I started working at JB’s Lawn Control, which is off of Hopkins. I worked there for three and
a half years and left there to come to work here. That was October of ‘03 - I’ve been here ever since.
If we’re doing the math right, that’s 22 years. Yep, coming up on 22 years on October 21.
How’d you find out about this job?
Through a family friend. Todd Kinsey was the manager out here at that time. My mom had taught his mom and said they were hiring out here, so I filled out an application and was hired right away. Continued...
Mike O’neal
So you came here 22 years ago. Can you remember who was running TGO at the time?
Bob Wilcox - he was our park manager. The lawn supervisor at that time was Ken Freeman, then a few years later Gary Patterson took that position.
How complete was TGO - were they still building houses? They were still building in a lot of areas like in Hidden Lakes, Grande Haven wasn’t finished, neither was Baytree. Hammock Oaks was still putting up houses. Streets like Plantation, Oak Cove, Twin Lakes, Fairways, Sunset - they were all completed, but I had a chance to see a lot of TGO being completed.
What about our commercial buildings?
From what I remember, most of the commercial buildings were here, but there have been a lot of changes over at the CSA Yard. Several new buildings and mechanic shops have been put in. When I first started here, our office was just a ratty trailer. I mean, you were sitting there in the mornings and rats were running across your legs.
So then Francine Novakoff was the one responsible to get us the building we are in now. That’s who the building is named after. She played a big part in TGO along with Lorraine Murphy. Francine was on a lot of committees, like the beautification committee and did a lot to help the CSA workers.
Give us an idea, how many employees work out of the CSA Yard?
All together with Shane’s crewclose to 100. We’re a little down at the moment. I have about 16 on my lawn crew, a couple of trash/debris guys, and a beautification guy - could definitely use more, but, you know, you have to work with the budget you get. I think the crew that we have and the amount of work we have to accomplish each week - they do an amazing job. It’s especially tough this time of year when we’re battling the rains.
So give us an idea, what’s your day like here?
We get here every morning at 6:30, sometimes a little earlier. That way I can get my work orders printed out for my guys
so each crew knows what the plan is for the day - which can change hourly depending on the weather. I’ll pick a crew and go work with them each day. I try to mow with a crew for an hour and help out. There might be some trimming or brush clearing - whatever it takes to keep the crews moving.
Seem like we see you all the time up in one of those buckets trimming palm trees.
That’s one thing good about my job - I can do a little bit of everything. So, yeah, it’s kind of nice. You don’t get stuck doing the same thing. Day after day I can always mix it up.
Worst part about your job?
There’s not one really. The weather can be a problem. It’s hard to keep all the residents happy when we can’t keep on schedule with mowing lawns. Mother Nature can be a bit difficult sometimes.
So, we’re guessing in your free time you’re out fishing. When the weather’s not too hot, you’ll find us out on the St. John’s River - yeah, out fishing for black crappie. I usually bring home 50 at a time. That’s the limit on them.
Wow. And you eat those? Are they good?
Oh, yeah - they taste great. I usually go to 46, out by Sanford. I have this big spider rig that holds seven rods, and I just troll, and then all of a sudden all of the poles will go down.
Really? That sounds pretty cool.
Yeah - I made it. It’s my spider rig. I can put a bunch of poles on it and just troll around. All the poles got these little jig heads on them with a grub on it. Some of these crappie can get pretty big - up to a pound and a half. When it gets cold out, it makes them even better. They’re really good.
Is there a crappie season?
You can catch them all year long. In the wintertime, the schools get bigger and they get tighter together. And when you hit a school, all the poles will go off at one time. Then you get real busy - you’ve got to start reeling them all in, throw them in a bucket, and take them home to clean them. We also catch a lot of bass - I got all the electronics on my boat where you can actually see the fish in the water and all that. I go out a lot with my stepson, Dylan. We hold our own fishing tournaments to see who can catch the biggest fish. It’s good to get the kids outdoors. Fishing is a great sport.
So you still like to hunt?
Oh yeah -Jillian and I bought some land in Breathitt County, Kentucky near Jackson, just to go hunting and fishing - but mainly for hunting. The plan is to build a cabin up there someday so we have a place to spend some time. Mainly deer - but only in season - we clean and eat anything we shoot.
We know at one time, you were doing some hog - let’s saymanagement here in the park. Tell us about that. It’s no secret. At times, we’ve been overrun in this park with wild hogs that have come over from the St. Johns. They wreak havoc on the residents’ lawns and the golf course. They have to be removed. If you’ve ever seen one up close and how big their teeth are, you can see the larger ones would be dangerous to come across, especially if you were walking your dogs. Just a couple hogs can destroy and root up a complete green or a front yard. We’ve taken out easily 80 hogs just back behind Hole #10. At one point, we were getting two to three a night. The biggest we got was 227 pounds - my wife got that one - that may not sound big, but that size hog can do a lot of damage in just one night.
What do you do with them afterwards?
We take them down to the processor in Port St. John who cleans ‘em and butchers ‘em. We don’t waste the meatwe’ll share with the CSA staff. The pork is good meat and can be processed into all kind of different ways, ground, cube steaks, summer sausage, etc.
How do you find these hogs when they are in the park?
We have a few trail cams located where we think they frequent most often. We’ll track them for a few days - by now, we have a good idea where they like to show up and wreak havoc. It’s something that just has to be done - it just has to be managed. Wild hogs are Florida’s most costly invasive species. They breed year round, reach reproductive maturity at just 6-8 months and average 4 to 12 piglets per litter with sows able to have several litters a year. That math ads up real quick to become a huge problem.
Let’s go back and talk about the weather a bit, how hard it is on your crew when it rains like it has this past month. No question, the rain this time of the year makes it difficult. Some of these lawns get drenched due to poor runoff - they may take days to dry out and, of course, our mowers will leave some tracks - but we’re damned if we do, damned if we don’t. Sometimes you’re never going to win, but we still have to get the grass cut. We really have a great group of guys and it’s not easy some days when it’s 90-plus degrees with 50% humidity, but, you know, they show up and make the best of it. These guys all try hard to do a good job.
Bet the rain also plays havoc on the equipment as well. No question, the wet weather takes its toll. Not good at all to cut the grass when it’s that wet - it actually tears the grass more than cuts it. We already have to sharpen the blades two to three times a week, plus the regular maintenance.
So who handles that maintenance?
Each crew is responsible for their own equipment. Every crew has a couple mowers, two blowers, two weed wackers, an edger, and a hedger - they have to make sure they are ready to go each morning. They maintain, change oil, and grease their own equipment - they have a weekly schedule they adhere to. They usually do that at the end of their day so they can start their mowers at 7:30 am sharp.
Well Mike, the one thing we’ve noticed during this interview is that you really take pride in what you do here. Hey... I love this place. I may not live here, but it’s like home for me. I wouldn’t have stayed for 22 years if I didn’t enjoy what I’m doing.
Thanks, Mike, for taking time for this interview. Maybe next time you catch some crappie, you might drop some off. Better - I’ll pick ya up.
In Memoriam Thomas E. Courtney
August 11, 1944 - September 23, 2025
Thomas E. “Tom” Courtney, an 81-year-old husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather known for his vibrant personality, passed away surrounded by love. Born in DeKalb, Illinois, to Thomas and Marilyn (Sanderson) Courtney, he was their firstborn child and cherished first grandchild in both the Courtney and Sanderson families.
Tom had a lifelong dream of living in the mountains of Colorado, a dream he realized after college when he moved to Boulder. There, he began a career in banking and later transitioned into real estate. In 1972, he settled in Colorado Springs, where he began a thriving career, married his beloved wife, Roe, with whom he shared 48 years of marriage, and raised a wonderful family. Tom was known for his charisma, integrity and unwavering dedication to his family, Tom’s real estate career was a testament to his passion and commitment. He worked with respected companies such as Van Schaack & Co., Re/Max, and Colorado Brokers before co-founding Courtney & Courtney with his wife, Roe. After many successful years, he and Roe embraced the adventure of full-time RV living for 14 years, allowing them to connect with people across the country. They spent 20 years off and on in Titusville, FL (TGO) before settling in Montrose, Colorado. Tom’s journey in both real estate and life left a lasting impact on those he met along the way.
Tom was the true embodiment of loyalty, commitment, and a delightful, sarcastic wit. His laughter was like sunshine, brightening every room and spreading joy to everyone he met. It’s no wonder he became known as Santa Tom - a title that captured both his generosity and his ability to make others smile. Fantastic storyteller, Tom, had a way of bringing memories to life. Whether surrounded by friends, gathered at a holiday table, or in the middle of an everyday conversation, he was always ready to share a tale - ensuring those moments could be laughed at, learned from, and cherished for years to come.
Tom didn’t just tell stories - he lived them. And in doing so, he gave those around him the kind of memories that will echo for generations. Tom is survived by his four children: Thomas “Tod” Courtney (Paula) of Castle Rock, CO, Matt Preston (Sheri) of Marietta, GA, Jenna Lanfor (Mike) of Havelock, NC, and Bryan Courtney (April) of Broomfield, CO. He leaves behind a legacy of love through his grandchildren: Rebekah Garcia (Brian), Jordan Courtney, Mckenzy Evans (James), Ryan Preston, and Marley Preston, along with his great-grandchild, Julio Garcia.
Preceding him in death were his parents and his brothers Kevin, David, and Craig Courtney. He will be lovingly remembered by his sisters, Susan Courtney Marshall (Pat) and Erin Hooks (Rob), as well as his nephews and niece, Sean and Kevin Marshall, and Colleen and Chris Hooks.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to share a happy memory of Tom or enjoy a game of golf or pickleball in his honor. At this time, no services are planned, but his spirit will forever hold a special place in the hearts of those who knew him.
MEET BRENDA CULLEN TGO REALTY’S NEWEST AGENT
We’re excited to welcome Brenda to the TGO Realty team! She and her husband, Tony, have proudly called TGO home for the past 10 years. Avid RVers since 2007, their passion for the lifestyle led them on a search in 2015 for the perfect winter destination one that truly felt like home, even when RV parks across Florida were filled to capacity. After visiting several different locations, they found exactly what they were looking for here at TGO and never looked back!
Brenda brings more than 20 years of sales experience in Florida ’s construction industry, a deep appreciation for the RV lifestyle, and the unique perspective of being a full -time resident. She’s eager to share everything that makes TGO such a special place to live and visit. As Brenda puts it: “Ten years ago, I made the decision that I was going to ‘Love It Here” - and I can’t wait to help others feel the same way about TGO. ”
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Now Available Sunday & Monday! 99¢ Chicken Wings! Cheap wings. Big flavor. Zero regrets.
APPETIZERS SALADS & SOUP
Basket of Fries - choice of two sauces 4.99
Quesadilla 10.99
12” flour tortilla filled with sautéed onions, peppers and shredded cheese. Add chicken - 3.00 Add shrimp - 5.00
Pretzel - Served with nacho cheese dip 9.99
Pierogi 9.99
Served with a choice of sauerkraut and horsey sauce or sautéed onions and sour cream
Potato Skins 9.99
Loaded with shredded cheese and bacon, topped with green onions
Fried Okra - Served with ranch 8.99
Onion Rings 8.99
Beer battered, served with a choice of dipping sauces
Spicy Quesadilla 13.99
12” flour tortilla filled with onions, peppers, jalapeños, tomatoes, and buffalo chicken.
Substitute Fried Shrimp - 5.00
Fried Pickles - Served with Sriracha Ranch 9.99
Potstickers 10.99
Pork potstickers, served with Sweet Thai Chili Sauce
Chilled Spanish blended soup, served with croutons or crackers.
Ask your server about our Gazpacho special of the day!
$3. 50 Tacos on Thursday
Music at The Blue Heron
Friday, October 3 Bill Collins
Friday, October 10 Sammy
Friday, October 17 Sammy
Friday, October 24 Mike Johnson
Friday, October 31 Tiki Band
CONSUMER ADVISORY
Dates and Acts are subject to change
Consuming undercooked meat, poultry, eggs, or seafood may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions. Please inform your server of any special dietary needs.
BURGERS AND SANDWICHES
Blue Heron Burger - Angus beef with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle. Served with french fries. 12.99 Add cheese 1.00
MOAB Burger - Mother Of All Burgers. Angus beef with American cheese, onion rings, bacon and BBQ sauce. Served with french fries. 15.99
Chicken Sandwich - Grilled or fried chicken breast with lettuce and tomato. Served with french fries. 12.99
Chicken Parm Sub - Fried chicken, marinara and cheese. Served with french fries. Half 10.99 Full15.99
Cheesesteak - Steak or chicken, sautéed peppers, onions and mushrooms, topped with provolone cheese. Served with french fries. Half 10.99 Full14.99
Heron Club - Sliced turkey or ham, bacon, lettuce, tomato and mayo on your choice of bread. Served with french fries. 14.99
On The Green Burger - Angus beef with provolone cheese, spinach, avocado and house aioli. Served with french fries. 15.99
J&B’s Patty Melt - Angus beef smothered with caramelized onions, on marbled rye bread with Swiss cheese. Served with french fries. 13.99
Meatloaf Sandwich - House meatloaf with gravy, lettuce and tomato. Served with french fries. 13.99
Eggplant Parm Sub - Fried eggplant, marinara and cheese. Served with french fries. Half 10.99 Full15.99
Meatball Sub - Meatballs, marinara, provolone cheese on a toasted sub. Served with french fries.
Half 10.99 Full14.99
The Reuben - Thinly sliced corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, Thousand Island dressing on marbled rye. Served with french fries. 14.99
ENTREES AND PASTAS
Potatoes and vegetable of the day are subject to change. Ask your server what we have today.
Chicken Tenders - Served with French fries and choice of dipping sauce. 10.99
Fish and Chips - Beer battered fried Haddock, served with french fries and coleslaw. 14.99
Spaghetti and Meatballs - Meatballs over spaghetti pasta with marinara sauce with garlic bread. Half 9.99 Full 14.99
SIDES
Replacement options require an up charge. Ask your server for more information.
French Fries Sweet Potato Fries Onion Rings Side Salad Side of Fruit Coleslaw
Summer Hours
11:00 am to 8:00 pm
Grilled Salmon - Choice of grilled or blackened salmon, served with vegetable of the day. 21.99
Chicken Alfredo - Grilled chicken over fettuccine alfredo. Served with garlic bread. Half 12.99 Full 15.99
Albatross Pasta - Creamy marinara, penne, basil, and Parmesan. Choice of chicken or meatballs. Half 10.99 Full 15.99
DESSERTS
Personalized cakes are custom to order. Contact us for more information regarding our bakery services!
Ask your server about our Dessert of the day!
From flying across the globe to hitting the fairways in TGO to advocating for breast cancer awareness, meet
Susan Jensen
So, Susan, tell us about yourself.
I was born in Sioux City, Iowa, but grew up about 20 miles away in Climbing Hill. It was a tiny town - about 97 people, two streets, one stop sign, a grocery store, a bank, two gas stations, a cafe, a bar, a beauty shop, and three churches. Of course, everyone knew everyone. It was a farming community, but my dad was a banker and sold crop insurance.
What did you do in school?
I played girls’ basketball back when it was still half-court play. You were either a forward or a guard, and you stayed on your half of the court until the ball went the other way. Girls’ basketball was huge in Iowa, and our games often drew bigger crowds than the boys. I also ran track and was a majorette in the marching band.
Did you go to college?
I went to Iowa State but never quite found my passion. Even in high school, I’d said I wanted to be a flight attendant. At the time, you needed either two years of work or two years of college, so after two and a half years I left school, applied to airlines, and started stewardess training in May of 1969. I ended up flying with Northwest Airlines for almost 40 years. When I started, they had three hubs - Washington, D.C., Minneapolis, and Seattle. Minneapolis was the main hub, so that’s where I trained and lived.
What were some of the places you flew?
For the first seven years, I mostly flew domestic - pretty much all over the United States, though a lot of it was in the northern part of the country. We went coast to coast, to Florida and California, and more cities were added as the airline grew. Eventually, I was able to hold an international schedule, and at that time Northwest focused mainly on the Orient - Japan, China, the Philippines, and Taipei.
Did you have any favorite countries?
Yes - Italy. As Northwest expanded into Europe, I flew to all the major cities, but Italy is my favorite. I love everything about itthe people, the wine, the architecture, the Vatican - it’s just such a special place. I also really like Belgium.
Later, when Northwest opened a hub in Chicago with nonstop flights to Tokyo, that was a big deal. I transferred my base there. At the time I was married and living in St. Petersburg, Florida, so I commuted from Florida to Chicago to work my flights.
As a flight attendant, you bid month to month. Say your trip leaves Wednesday morning and gets back Friday night - you just have to be at your base two hours before departure. After you land, how you get home is up to you. It can be great, but it can also get hectic.
One thing people don’t realize: you only get paid when the engines are running. You’re not paid for the two hours spent
checking equipment, stocking food, or boarding passengers. Pay starts at pushback from the gate. Flight attendants have to fly 80 hours a month. That doesn’t sound like much, but since it only counts when the engines are running. That’s why I preferred international flying - I could do a few long-haul trips and be done for the month. For example, Chicago to Tokyo nonstop, layover 24 hours, then nonstop back was worth 26 hours. Compare that to domestic flying, where you’d need eight or nine days just to reach the same total.
There’s actually a big lawsuit right now where flight attendants are pushing to change the pay structure so they’re compensated for all the time they’re actually working on the plane, not just when the engines are on.
So, you said you were married. Tell us more. I got married, but that ended after two years. About a year later, I married Loran. We were both flight attendants at that time and lived in Wolf Point, Montana and commuted to Chicago to fly our trips. Loran had many roles with Northwest - ground services, baggage handeling, flight attendant, purser and station manager of Ft. Lauderdale and West Palm. Sometimes we even flew together, which was like a regular vacation. The company handled everything: when you landed, a bus or limo took you to a hotel that was already paid for, and they told you the pickup time the next morning. Between flights, it was entirely up to you.
How did you and Loran discover TGO?
We were living in Fort Lauderdale, where Loran was a station manager overseeing the airport operations. We loved the
area, but life was hectic. Our condo was on the beach, and our motor home was stored 30 miles away, uncovered, dirty, and unplugged. Using it was such a pain that we decided to move, since Loran had retired - but I still wanted to be within an hour of a major airport, so I could commute.
On a drive to Savannah for the weekend, we passed TGO and thought it looked interesting. A couple of weeks later, we returned for the John Glenn space launch event - it felt like Woodstock for the over-50 crowd! We looked at houses but didn’t find anything that suited us. That was early 1999.
A few months later, we decided to spend summers in Minnesota and winters in Florida with the RV. We sold our condo, packed everything into a U-Haul with our cat, and started the drive from West Palm Beach. The realtor, Sandy Perry, called with a house whose previous offer had fallen through. We stopped overnight to see it, and the next morning - U-Haul, cat, and all - we toured the house. It had everything we wanted.
The owners had already moved, but Sandy called them and within 30 minutes, we made the deal - with one contingency: we wanted to move in immediately. By noon, we were unloading and settling in.
That was July 1999. We turned in the U-Haul, flew to Minnesota where our motor home was waiting, and returned in August. I think I hold the record for living in the same house for 26 years. There might be others who’ve lived here longer, but probably not in the same house.
Wow! That’s a great story. Were you golfing back then?
Not really - I did a little, but I was still working. I didn’t really start playing regularly until I retired in 2009. By then, I was based in Detroit, which was better for accumulating flight hours for Asia and Europe. Now, I golf four or five days a week and also go to line dancing.
One of the most impressive things you do is drive your motor home by yourself. When did you start doing that?
Loran passed in 2011. We had a 42-foot motor home and towed a Tahoe, which I thought was too much for me, so I sold it and didn’t travel for almost a year. Then I decided I needed to go somewhere, so I bought a 24-foot Mercedes Sprinter motor home and traveled solo for four years. Later, I met Charlie Dunn online, and the 24-footer was too small for the two of us and two cats, so I upgraded again. Charlie and I were together about five and a half years before he passed.
For the last couple of years, Coletta has been traveling with me. It’s helpful to have someone along - even for small things like finding gas stations. She’s also handy and resourceful, always researching fixes on YouTube, and she’s a great golf partner. We always golf on our trips.
Tell us how you got involved with the breast cancer tournament. I’ve had breast cancer twice. The first time was in 1998 in Fort Lauderdale. It had spread to my lymph nodes, so I had two surgeries, chemo, and radiation. I lost 30 pounds in a month, but
everything turned out fine. Thirteen years later, it came back in the other breast, I caught it early. This time, no chemo was needed - just radiation.
So the tournament is dear to your heart?
Yes. Both cancers were detected on mammograms - I couldn’t feel either one. I’m a big proponent of mammograms. The money we raise goes to help people who can’t afford them. After self-examination, it’s a first line of defense, and the process is quick and simple.
Was the tournament your idea?
Kind of. It started small with the ladies’ LGA group. I wanted the money to stay local and go directly to people in need - not large organizations where much goes to administration. After experimenting with a few groups, we partnered with Parrish’s breast cancer program. They provide vouchers for mammograms, wigs, prostheses, counseling - everything a patient needs after diagnosis.
How much have you raised through the tournaments?
I don’t have the exact number, but we started in 2016, and this will be our ninth year. We have raised almost $50,000. This year, we already have 108 players signed up, with a maximum of 144 that can play. Thanks to new sponsors and Chamber of Commerce advertising, we’ve attracted both corporate and individual contributions, some up to $1,000.
Well, you’re not too far away. You’re under 30 days.
Yes! Now it’s all about logistics - who’s bringing coolers, providing baskets, and other donations. Bob Evans is even donating five of his handmade bags. It’s exciting to see the community come together.
It’s definitely a great cause. We know The Happenings is on board and will be hanging out at Hole #10 with the TGO Realty group. Yes... we get a lot of support from the businesses in the resort and the residents. We really appreciate it. We look forward to seeing everyone out there on October 20.
Lynne Anderson has been co-chair of the breast cancer tournament and has worked closely with Susan to help make the event a success. Now Bobby, on the other hand, never misses an opportunity to put his arms around a couple of ladies.
October 29
1:00 to 4:00 pm
In The Manor
Display space available only for Happenings Advertisers
Come join us at the TGO Business Expo, where you’ll have the chance to meet face-to-face with the advertisers you see each issue in The Happenings. This is your opportunity to get to know the people behind the ads, ask questions, and learn more about the products and services they provide. Whether you’re looking to schedule appointments, compare options, or simply discover new businesses that can make your life easier and more enjoyable, The Happenings Business Expo brings it all together in one convenient place - right here at TGO.
Attendees will have a chance to win some great door prizes, including gift certificates from our advertisers and other fun giveaways. Beverages, Cookies and Treats will be served. Vaccinations will also be available from Jad Pharmacy
All TGO Residents Are Invited
These Advertiser Will Be Attending As of 10/0325
Florida First Roofing
Parrish Medical
Blinds of All Kinds
Loris Space Coast Travel
Edwards Jones
Custom Golf Carts
Harbor Financial
TGO Realty
Assurance Aire
CounterCraft
Compton Air & Heat
Black Cat Coffee
ASAP Pest Solutions
Jad Pharmacy
Active Spine Center
RV Roof Maintenance
Trimmers
Miracle Ear
Un-BEElievably Clean
SPS Mobile Cleaning
TGO Church
Keller Williams
Orange Plumbing
Atlantic Storm Protection
Golf Carts Unlimited
Jon Kirk Construction
Turf Masters
Space Coast Dentistry
Traveling
RV Technicians
River Lanes Family Entertainment
Funny Thing Is… The Shortest Line Syndrome
I’ve discovered through years of experience that you should never, ever, EVER get in the shortest line. I know it doesn’t make sense, but here’s proof. Have you ever gotten into the shortest lane on a multi-lane highway and it suddenly slows down or stops while the lane next to you starts moving right along? At the first opportunity you hit the gas and get in the other lane. What happens? Your lane slows down or stops and the other one starts moving right along. Frustrated by this, because you really need a pit stop quick, you dart back into the other lane and what happens? Bingo. You stop and the other lane starts moving. Why is this happening? You’re caught in the “shortest line syndrome.” Second example; you have just finished your grocery shopping and you approach the checkout line. All the lines are about the same but one is a little shorter so you jump in. Bad move. The slowest cashiers always have the shortest line because everyone else knows about the syndrome except you. After you put your stuff on the belt and look up you see a cashier who looks like a character in one of those slow motion scenes from a horror movie. This particular one feels obligated to report all the top news stories to every customer. It’s the syndrome. Last example; you’re in the ticket line at a theme park. It’s hot but you’re not worried because you got in the shortest line which, despite the curse of the syndrome, is actually moving right along. Then they get to the person in front of you and what happens? He can’t speak English and can’t communicate with the employee because neither understands the other’s language. While waiting for an interpreter to show up you realize short is too long if your time is too short. So don’t get in the shortest line ever. You don’t have time for it! - Dr. Sammy -
Refresh Renew - It’s What We Do!
Pressure Washing of Resort Homes Executive Suites, RV Pads & Ports Gutter Cleaning
Now Offering Pruning of Ornamental Palms, Shrubs and Monthly Weed Control.
Licensed & Insured
Call,Text or Email to Schedule an Appointment:
Florida’s Gentle Giants - The Manatees
When most people think of Florida wildlife, they picture flamingos, alligators, or maybe sea turtles. But one of the state’s most beloved residents is the slow-moving, gentle manateeaffectionately known as the “sea cow.”
Manatees are marine mammals that can grow up to 13 feet long and weigh over 1,000 pounds. Despite their size, they are graceful grazers, spending most of their day munching on seagrass and freshwater vegetation. They typically eat 10–15% of their body weight daily - that’s hundreds of pounds of greens!
Florida is home to the largest population of West Indian manatees in the United States. These gentle giants prefer shallow, slow-moving waters - rivers, springs, and coastal areas - making the Sunshine State the perfect habitat. During the colder months, especially as October gives way to winter, manatees migrate to warm-water refuges, such as natural springs or power plant outflows, to escape water temperatures below 68°F.
Manatees are fascinating not just for their size and feeding habits, but for their gentle nature. They have no natural predators, and they’re curious about humans, often approaching boats or swimmers - though interaction should always be done respectfully. Florida law protects manatees from harassment or harm, and their conservation status has improved thanks to decades of dedicated efforts.
Despite their calm demeanor, manatees face real threats, primarily from watercraft collisions and loss of warm-water habitats. Residents and visitors can help by observing posted manatee zones, reducing boat speed in critical areas, and reporting injured animals to local wildlife authorities.
Manatees are more than just a Florida icon - they are a reminder of the state’s unique ecosystems and the importance of protecting them. Next time you’re near a spring or river, keep your eyes peeled. You might just catch a glimpse of these gentle giants gliding through the water, reminding us why Florida’s wildlife is so extraordinary.
Fairways Drive
Aquacize Manor Pool
Mon - Fri - 10:00 am Weather Permitting Call the CSA Manor Office to ask about any cancellation due to bad weather. Aquacize, or water aerobics, is a fun and easy workout for all ages. It uses the resistance of water to increase cardiovascular endurance, flexibility and muscle tone. Diana Araujo-Fernandez - 321-264-2393
Bingo Plantation Manor Tues - 6:00 pm
Cards Go On Sale at 4:45 pm. TGO Owners, Renters, and Guests Only. All present during play must be 18 years of age or older. Age verification via government ID may be required.
Bike Group Plantation Manor - Thur 9:00 am
TGO Bike Group does group rides every Thursday. We go on bike trails or lightly traveled urban streets, no major roads, between 10 to 20 miles at 8 to 10 miles per hour. E bikes and recumbents are welcome. Meet in the Manor parking lot at 9:00 am on a Thursday. Ed Swan - Text 321-536-0572
Bocce The Bocce Court
The Bocce ball set can be borrowed from the cabinet outside the Fitness Center, Monday through Friday from 8:00 am - 3:00 pm. For weekend play, pick up the Bocce set on Friday.
Bowling River Lanes (SR50) - Titusville
RETURNING IN DECEMBER
TGO bowling - 2025 Season - $1.00 per week for 3 games with free shoe rental. 2 Practice dates: 12/4/25 and 12/17/25 at 1:00 pm. ($5.35 for 3 games with free shoe rental). 12-week league starts 1/7/26 - first date at noon (for meeting) then 1:00 pm for all other Wednesdays. Teams comprised of 4 bowlers per team. Single bowlers welcome - we will find you a team. League is a handicap system, so everyone has a chance to win. Call or text Ruby Logan - 321-749-8642 or email: Ruby@lakesagency.com
Bridge Club Plantation Manor Porch
Mon - 1:00 pm, Thurs - 1:00 pm
For intermediate and advanced level players. Bridge sign-up sheets are on clipboards on the Plantation Manor office door by the stage. Players must sign up by Friday noon to play Monday afternoon and must sign up by Tuesday noon to play Thursday afternoon. For more info, call: John Comeau – 321-269-5525
Bunco The Library
Meet at 6:00 pm on Thursdays; Sep 25, Oct 2 & 23, Nov 6 & 20, Dec 4 & 18, Jan 15 & 29
Cost $1, plus $3 for left, right, center game. All ladies are welcome. No experience necessary. Let’s Roll call Cathy Costello 321-376-2823
Chess The Library
If you are interested in playing chess one-on-one or would like to reactivate scheduled group play, please contact Bill Severance-207-317-1365 or bill@westnetdesigns.com. Join the TGO Chess Players Facebook group.
Cigar Club Windsong Pavilion
2nd & 4th Tuesdays – 3:30 pm. Enjoy a cigar with fellow smokers, swap cigars, share cigar knowledge, join field trips. (Bring a beverage)
Contact: Bob Hazlett – 937-545-7446; or email: rlhazlett999@gmail.com
Clown Alley The Library
RETURNING IN NOVEMBER
Meets on the first and third Thursday of each month at 3:00 pm. For more information call: Pam Campbell Taylor 571-217-0444
Coloring Group Windsong Pavilion
All Year Long - First and third Tuesdays Noon to 3:00 pm and/or Wednesdays 4:00 to 7:00 pm. $10 - Colored pencil supplies provided. Start with a coloring lesson, color at your own pace. Reservations Rquired by the Monday before class. call Tracy Lewis - 425-478-6078 or tgocolor@stuffnthingz.com or
Corn Hole The Shuffleboard Courts
Sunday 3:00 pm, Wednesday 5:30 - 7:00 pm Practice starts a half hour before play. Call: Randy Sanford - 321-505-8353
Croquet Club
Front of Driving Range - Sun - 2:00 pm
No experience needed. Equipment provided. Bring your own chair and beverage. It’s a great way to get outside and have fun with friends and neighbors. Joe DiGuilio 321-398-1816 or Frank Valenza - 407-223-5196
Diamond Painting Library - Mon - 1:30 pm
Try this new craft hobby that’s a mix between Cross Stitch and Paint by Numbers. Tiny resin “diamonds” are applied to a color-coded canvas creating a vibrant mosaic painting. Contact: Nancy Landry - 781-820-7276
Euchre The Library Sat - 7:00 - 9:00 pm
RETURNING OCTOBER 18
Euchre is for all who love the game! Cost is $1. Theresa Crosby - 740-548-0140
Friendly Hobbies Hobbyland
Wed - 9:30 am - 12:00 noon, all year
Bring your knitting, cross stitch, crocheting, and other needle creations. Call: Theresa Sansoucie - 603-491-4515 or Mary Jane Smith - 810-853-8188
Exercise With Charlotte
Manor (M) or Pavilion (P)
Mon (M) 8:00 -9:00 am Strength Training
Mon (P) 9:00 - 9:30 am Low Impact
Tue (M) 8:00 - 9:00 am PiYo Live
Tue (M) 9:00 - 9:30 am Pilates
Wed (M) 8:00 - 9:00 am Medicine Ball
Wed (P) 9:00 - 9:30 am Total Body Toning
Thur (M) 8:00 - 9:00 am Low Impact
Thur (M) 9:00 - 9:30 am Total Body Stretch
Fri (M) 8:00 - 9:00 am Strength Training
Fri (P) 9:00 - 9:30 am People’s Choice
FMCA - Ambassadors Chapter
Plantation Manor
4th Monday (October - April) - 4:30 pm
Seasonal meetings are monthly. Come share your latest RV adventures and get updates on our rally schedule and chapter activities. After our business meeting, we provide a light meal for our members and guests. Please bring your own beverage of choice. If you will be attending, you must send an email to Bob Nebel by the Monday before the meeting so we know how much food to purchase. Call: Bob Nebel at 321-626-1290
Bob’s email: renebeljr@gmail.com
Visit our website at www.TGOAMB.com
Friday Harmony After Lunch Bunch
RETURNING OCTOBER 25
The Pavilion Fri - 1:00 - 3:00 pm. Harmony After Lunch Bunch (HALB) is an all voices chorus headed by a 30-year Barbershop Harmony Society member. Peter Maselli - 714-392-4444
FTTA - Fun Time Travel Association Plantation Manor
3rd Monday (October - April) - 4:30 pm
RETURNING OCTOBER 20
The FTTA is a rally group open to all owners and renters in TGO. Join our monthly meeting for information about rallies and socializing. We will serve food at this meeting. Those who plan to attend, send an e-mail to Monica Fierro by the Friday before the Monday meeting so we know how many chairs to set up and how much food to purchase. Call : Monica Fierro - 321-604-0011
Email: tgomonica@yahoo.com
Put “FTTA” in the subject line.
Game Night The Library
Sun - 6:00 pm, Tue - 6:00 pm
This fun-loving group plays many types of games. Call: Carol Hall - 321-383-3544 or Kathy Smith - 401-742-9766
Hand Knee And Foot Card Game The Library
Wed and Sat - 11:30 am - 4:00 pm
Much more challenging and fun than original Hand and Foot, this is still similar to Canasta. Both days meet all year.
Call: Marie Zeigler - 518-805-8569
Karaoke Plantation Manor - 6:00 pm.
Join in the fun or listen to your friends. Bring snacks and beverages. Don Wheeler - 407-401-3655
Line Dancing Plantation Manor
Tue - 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Beginner class starts at 10:00 am. No dance experience - basic steps taught. Improver class starts at 11:00 am. Michelle Neese - Instructor
Machine Embroidery Club
Hobbyland - Fri - 12:00 - 5:00 pm
Join us in this fascinating hobby. Bring your embroidery machine. Bring your door key for the craft room. Diana Spahn - 207-432-2107
Mad Hatters Plantation Manor
1st Tuesday (November - April) - 11:30 am
All TGO ladies are invited. Lunch is $20.00, cash or check, advance reservations are required. Contact Susan Bonneau at madhatlunch@gmail.com. For any other information contact: Cathy Costello at 321-376-2823 or cathy.costello@gmail.com
Fridays, Oct 3 & 24, Nov 6, Dec 5 & 19, Jan 2 & 16 at 6:00 pm. Bring snacks for your table/BYOB. Bring a roll of nickels to play and $1, per person, for donation to three charities. Bev Moquin - 508-317-0295
Page Turners The Library
Pickleball Pickleball Courts
Six Pickleball Courts are available starting at 8:00 am every day.
• Lights for Night Play • Beginners Lessons
• Organized Tournaments • Clinics to Improve Member Skills
• Open Club Play 9:00 am - 1:00 pm Daily and Wednesday evening 6:00 - 8:00 pm
• Private Games in the Afternoon
You can borrow equipment from the Plantation Manor CSA Office Monday - Friday 8:00 am to 3:00 pm. For more information: tgopickleballclubboard@ gmail.com. Lessons offered from November to midApril, Wednesdays 2:00 - 4:00 pm, by appointment only. Call Pam Howland at 470-400-1168
Quilters Hobbyland
Thur - 9:30 am- 5:00 pm, all year
Join the creative enjoyment of this sewing art. Weekly meetings are held at 1:00 pm November through April. TGO Owners, please bring your door key for the craft room. Call: Debbi Walling - 925-708-3599
Radio Controlled Aircraft
Experience the “high” of flying R/C aircraft. FREE training. The airfield is less than a mile from TGO. We fly all year and are usually at the airfield by about 8:00 am. Bob Netherton - 321-269-3016
Rug Hooking Hobbyland
Tues (October - April) - 9:00 am
The TGO Traditional Rug Hooking Group invites all “Hookers and Lookers”
Call: Terri Strack - 603-540-5921
Shuffleboard Shuffleboard Courts Thurs - October - April - 1:00 pm
Discs and Cues are on the Fitness Center front wall. Please return equipment when you are finished. For after dark, there is a light switch timer by the Tennis Court fence enclosure door that is nearest to the shuffleboard courts. Call: Doug Jensen - 401-885-9731
Sawdust Club The Pavilion
Members meeting - 2nd Tuesday (October-April) - 9:00 am. The club building is near the CSA maintenance yard and open to members 24/7/365. Members may pursue their wood and/or metalworking hobby. Loaner tools are available for any member. Membership is open to all TGO property owners. Laura Sievers 630-408-6461 tgosawdustclub.wordpress.com
Singles At Tgo The Café Wednesday 11:30 am
Join us for lunch every week. Men and women can spend an hour or two in fellowship. Meet old friends and make new ones.
Sammye Madden - 321-383-8530 or Cam Pelletier - 321-264-0691
Stampin’ Up Card Making Class Hobbyland 2nd and 4th Wednesdays at 6:00 pm and 2nd and 4th Fridays at 9:30 am. Make 3 cards for $15. All supplies provided. Reservations Required. E-mail: bdaniels@cfl. rr.com by Monday before classes or call Carol Hall - 321-289-7380
Stitching From The Heart Hobbyland Thurs- 9:30 am - 12 noon, all year. Come join in the fun of stitching your projects while you enjoy a cup of tea. Bring your key to the craft room. Teri Alexander - 321-961-1393 or Theresa Sansoucie - 603-491-4515
1st Wednesday of each month - 6:30 pm Wine is welcome! Please consider joining the fun! The book selection and more information can be found on FACEBOOK at TGO Page Turners.
Photo Club Plantation Manor
1st and 3rd Friday of the month. If you enjoy taking pictures and would like to learn more, come join us. Use your phone or a mirrorless camera, all new faces are welcome to our meetings. David Spahn - 207-468-6760
CSA Patrol is Hiring
Patrol offi cers play an important roll. Here is your opportunity to become an integral part of the community and help keep TGO safe by enforcing traffic rules, and directing traffic during emergecies. If you would be interested in working for the CSA Patrol, go online to our website: www.tgocsa.org then click on CSA Documents/Forms/Application for Committee Assignment. Or stop by the CSA offi ce to pick up an application. We Need You!
Swedish Weavers Hobbyland
Monday - 1:00 - 3:00 pm
RETURNING NOVEMBER 10
Relax with this fun, needlecraft fabric decorating style. The simple technique can be mastered and enjoyed by all ages.
Carmella Zielinski - 321-289-0150
Tai Chi Windsong Pavilion
Monday and Wednesday 8:30 - 9:30 am
For more info call or text Dan Tracy at 608-658-4465
Tennis Club Tennis Courts
Tennis Club Members Match Play:
Mon - Wed - Fri - 8:00 am to Noon
All Tennis Players - Round-Robin - All Skill Levels: Tue - Thu - Sat - 8:00 am to Noon. Open Play Tennis - Daily Noon - 8:00 pm. Join the TGO Tennis Club. Contact any Tennis Club Board Member on court. Or call Belle Maropis - 770-695-8266
Texas Hold’em Juke Box
Tournaments on Tuesdays and Fridays at 6:00 pm in the Jukebox Recreation Room.
Doyle Wilson - 502-751-4657
Texas Hold’em Mixed Groups
Juke Box - Tournaments on Thur at 6:00 pm in the Jukebox Recreation Room.
Call Andy Martenson - 321-246-0033
Texas Hold’em Women’s Poker Club Juke Box - Sunday evenings in the game room from 6:00 - 9:00 pm. HEY GALS! Interested in playing Texas Hold ‘em? Here’s your opportunity to get in on a low-stakes limit game.
Contact Elaine Meier at 716-239-6325
TGO Dance Group The Pavilion
Thurs - 6:00 - 7:00 pm
Fun, safe class learning newest trending dances from social media. FREE CLASS, but tips appreciated Join on FB page: TGO Dance Group
All levels welcome. Call: Angie Woznick 321-269-6609 or Sally MacNevin 508-944-0082
Wood Carving Hobbyland
Monday - 8:00 am - 12 noon
All skill levels welcome. Join us for whittling or relief, chip, and carving-in-the-round styles. Charlie Wing - 321-474-1952
Zumba Plantation Manor
Monday, Wednesday, Friday - 9:00 am
RETURNING OCTOBER 13
Fun fusion of body sculpting and dance movements to lively Latin rhythms that tone your bodyInstructor: Diana-Arujo-Fernandez
RETURNING IN NOVEMBER
Ukulele Group Nature Center Tuesdays - 1:00 - 3:00 pm Join us! All levels of players welcome. Pam Campbell Taylor - 571-217-0444
Chrissy’s Catering Corner:
Did you know “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” is a real English proverb that dates back to the 19th Century. But why? They actually said it to promote apple consumption, but… Primary facts: Specifically, Granny Smith apples are a great source of Vitamin C which is ideal for your immune system and brain function. They are also a good source for potassium (for muscle and nerve function). They promote intestinal health and speed up your metabolism.
Apple Pie Bake:
• 2 packs cinnamon roll dough with icing (Pillsbury Cinnabon works well)
• 4 eggs
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 granny smith apples, diced
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• Vanilla ice cream - optional
Directions: Preheat oven to 375° Cut the cinnamon roll dough into 3 even strips, then cut those strips in 3 pieces, making 9 pieces total per cinnamon roll. Set aside the icing.
In a medium bowl, combine eggs, milk, cinnamon, and extract, stirring until smooth. Set aside.
In a pan over medium heat, combine butter, apples, and brown sugar, cooking until sugar starts to caramelize, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat.
Butter or use baking spray in a 9 x 9 backing dish. Sprinkle the cinnamon roll dough pieces evenly on the bottom. Pour the egg mixture on top, followed by the apples. Drizzle the reserved icing on top. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown. Serve with ice cream!
Health sources: Steps to Health/Smoothie Box/ WebMD Recipe source: Chrissy Elwonger
Board Of Directors Meeting
Plantation Manor • Wednesday, October 15, 2025 • 3:00 pm
The CSA Board of Directors are responsible for the entire operation of The Great Outdoors Community Services Association. The following list shows the current Board of Directors:
Chairman Tom Wheir 253-632-2105 chairman@tgocsa.org
District 0 Ron Wagner 607-542-6376 district0@tgocsa.org
District 1 Doug Matz 516-903-3145 district1@tgocsa.org
District 2 Dan Barnes 570-905-4906 district2@tgocsa.org
District 3 Robert Fraser 407-491-2500 district3@tgocsa.org
District 4 Lauren Clark 607-761-0092 district4@tgocsa.org
District 5 Colleen Marigliano 845-656-8394 district5@tgocsa.org
District 6 Matt Willey 518-321-1134 district6@tgocsa.org
District 7 John Comeau 321-269-5525 district7@tgocsa.org
District 8 Terry Manchik 901-603-6418 district8@tgocsa.org
District 9 Drew Proulx 207-751-9268 district9@tgocsa.org
Also part of the Board of Directors Organization are CSA Manager Billy Specht, Architectural Review Committee Chairman Leon LeBlanc and CSA Secretary Sharon Sanford. The CSA website at www.tgocsa.org has individual biographies and contact information for each director.
President’s Council Meetings
Owners are encouraged to attend all the Board of Direc tor meetings . Green speaker cards are available if an owner wishes to address the board for three minutes about any issue. An informational packet with the meeting agenda is given to each household that attends. Prior to the meeting, the agenda is posted on official bulletin boards. The board meeting is televised LIVE on channel 732.
CSA Board of Directors meetings are held on the third Wednesday from October through May. Planning meetings to set the agenda for the Board of Directors meetings are scheduled October to May on the second Wednesday of the month in the CSA Conference Room at 3:00 pm. They are open to attend for any TGO owner.
District Meetings
There are ten CSA voting districts at The Great Outdoors. They are non-geographical, but are determined by the last digit in each property’s street address. The District Meetings are held monthly from October through May. Various districts join together to hold combined monthly meetings. There are two meetings per month with five districts in each one. Please note the upcoming meeting schedule if you want to attend your district meeting. In the PAVILION: Stay tuned for future dates scheduled for October, 2025.
President Council Meetings will start back on October 21 with meetings at the CSA Pavilion on the third (3rd) Tuesday of each month at 10:00 am. Chuck Benoit is the Chairman of the Council and Ron Young is the Vice Chairperson. Owners are invited to attend.
2024 Condominium/HOA Presidents
Condo President Phone# Email
I Pat Dick 321-848-2813 tgo.condo1@gmail.com
II Kay Dennison 505-350-4340 tgo.condoii@gmail.com
III Ron Young 540-294-4044 tgo.condo3president@gmail.com
IV Blaine Littlefield 207-798-2279 tgo.condo4pres@gmail.com
V Chuck Johnson 978-729-6248 tgo.condo5@gmail.com
VI Penny Harlow 808-561-8559 tgo.condo6@gmail.com
VII Len Perkins 757-651-0582 tgo.condo7pres@gmail.com
VIII Dot Raab 407-968-4795 tgocondo8@yahoo.com
IX Stephen Sohles 804-824-8180 tgo.condo9pres@gmail.com
X Cindy Marini 440-829-8633 tgocondo10@gmail.com
Condo President Phone# Email
XI Leonard Caton 321-567-3009 tgo.condo11board@gmail.com
XII Matthew Willey 518-321-1134 condo12tgo@gmail.com
FHOA Ken Birtwistle 401-580-5071 tgofairways@gmail.com
XIV Laura Dedrick 386-341-7537 tgo.condo14@gmail.com
XV David Spahn 207-468-6760 tgocondo15@gmail.com
XVI Chuck Benoit 978-314-9945 tgo.condo16@gmail.com
XVII Pete Bronson 315-263-6469 tgo.condo17pres@gmail.com
XVIII Dave Legrow 954-701-5770 tgo.condo18pres@gmail.com
XIX Carl Rosner 516-241-1877 pres@tgocondo19.com
APHOA Cammy Miller 407-592-4059 tgoaddison@gmail.com
“Volunteering is an act of heroism on a grand scale. And it matters profoundly. It does more than help people beat the odds; it changes the odds.” - William J. Clinton -
Architectural Review Committee (ARC) Members - Contact Information
Chairman - Harold Witschi* 716-998-6393
District 0 - Lisa Berkis 267-549-3674
District 1 - Harold Witschi 716-998-6393
District 2 - Scott Lancaster 505-269-4851
* Temporary until elections in January ARC Office Hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Closed from Noon to 1:00 pm for lunch.
District 3 - James Alonzo 518-577-7666
District 4 - Pete Bronson 315-263-6469
District 5 - Chris Chistian 931-628-3675
District 6 - Greg Mackey 219-322-5555
District 7 - Doug Jensen 401-885-9731
District 8 - Bill Flatt 321-626-5594
District 9 - Lisa Babcock 903-372-8849
The Architectural Review Committee is looking for a new Chairman and a District 5 representative. They will be elected in our annual TGO elections held January 26, 2026. If you are interested in one of these positions contact Vicki Littlefield, Chairperson of Election Committee at 207-798-2278
Architectural Review Committee
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the next ARC Meetings will be held on Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at 9:30 am on the Manor Porch.
The Architectural Review Committee meets for planning purposes on the Plantation Manor Porch at 9:30 am on Monday, October 6, 2025.
Application Review Agenda: Approve field approvals, old business, non-compliance violations, new business, adjorn. All changes to your property that are visible on the outside require advance approval from the Architectural Review Committee. Application forms and ARC Guidelines may be obtained from the Community Services Association office or printed from The Great Outdoors Community Services Association website at www.tgocsa.org. All completed ARC forms must be submitted to the CSA office by Noon on the Wednesday before the next Wednesday meeting. Results will be available to pick up after the ARC meeting or from the CSA Office.
Be sure ALL necessary paperwork is included with your ARC application. No approval will be given without having all the required data available at the ARC Meeting for review.
The Architectural Review Committee (ARC) will provide owners with a clear understanding of what is allowed and when ARC approval is needed. Gaining ARC approval is facilitated through a responsive process that is easy to use.
The ARC Guidelines and Application Form are available for download at TGOCSA.org or you can also pick up an application in the CSA Office Monday, Wednesday or Friday from 8:00 am until 5:00 pm. Applications must be submitted to the CSA Office by 12:00 Noon on the Wednesday prior to the following Wednesday meeting date to be considered at that meeting.
The ARC is elected by property owners. ARC has eleven members, ten elected from representative districts and one elected by the whole membership to serve as chairman. Each ARC term is two years. Districts are determined by the last number of each address (ex: 324 Plantation would be District 4).
If you have questions regarding ARC, please call the ARC Chairman, your ARC representative, or the CSA Office at 321-268-9767.
TGO Committees - And Their Contact Information
The Great Outdoors is home to several resident-led committees that help keep our community running smoothly and looking its best. These committees occasionally seek new members, and volunteering is a great way to contribute your time and talents. If you have experience or interest in any of the areas listed below, feel free to reach out to the committee chairman to ask about current openings. Your involvement makes a difference!
ARC Committee
Leon LeBlanc tgoarcchair@gmail.com
Elections Committee
Vicki Littlefield vickilynnl@prodigy.net
Finance Committee
Matthew Willey district6@tgocsa.org
Firewise Committee
Butch Jones butch_jones2001@yahoo.com
Human Resources Committee
Lauren Clark district4@tgocsa.org
Infrastructure & Natural Resources Committee
Drew Proulx district9@tgocsa.org
Landscaping and Beautification Committee
Tim Graham dancingcracker@gmail.com
Planning & Building Committee
Ron Wagner district0@tgocsa.org
Rules & Regulations Committee
Lynn Jacobs jjacobs120@aol.com
Safety & Security Committee
John Comeau district7@tgocsa.org
Traffic Infractions Committee
Cindy Marini clmarini@aol.com
Our Fall Menu Is Here
Black Cat Coffee
Coffee Shop and Roastery
3355 Foley Road - Behind Starling Ford
Open Monday - Friday 6am to 3pm Sat - 7am to 3pm Sun - 8am to 3pm The Freshest Coffee in Titusville
940 Cheney Highway - State Road 50 Across from Region Bank
Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 5:30 pm Saturday 8:00 am - 12:00 noon Dr. Mina Zaky
• State-of-the-Art Technology
• Experienced, Well-Trained Staff
• Vaccines, Digital X-Rays, Spay/Neuter, Surgery
• Care for Small Animals, Avian, Exotics, Pocket Pets
• Laser Therapy, Dental Cleaning, Microchipping
• Brevard County Licensing, Emergency Care Call to Schedule an Appointment... 321-607-6897
TitusvilleAnimalCareClinic.com
A short and helpful reference for living in TGO
Get a FREE copy at the CSA Office.
Plantation Manor Pool & Spa
OPEN Every Day: 8:00 am - Dusk
“Dusk” is different throughout the year. Please check the chart in the pool area. Please lower umbrellas after use so they’re not damaged by wind gusts.
Oak Cove Pool & Spa
OPEN: 7:00 am - 11:00 pm
Daily cleaning from 6:00 - 7:00 am
Wear or have in your possession a Pool Wristband. They are FREE and can be obtained from the Plantation Manor CSA Office.
Residents use lime green bands. Visitors use bands that are red, white and blue. Your guests are welcome to keep their bands as a souvenir of their visit to TGO.
Emergency Vehicle Protocol
Florida and TGO share the same vehicle and traffic laws as the rest of the US: Everyone must yield to emergency vehicles. If there’s no shoulder on the road, simply stop to allow an emergency vehicle to pass. We have all been driving long enough to know this. Please, when you see emergency vehicles coming in with lights flashing, pull over and let them pass! It could be your loved ones they are here for.
Contractor Restrictions
Contractors employed for repairs, construction, renovation, or installation at residences that are in The Great Outdoors are not allowed to work on Sunday, except in an emergency or with the advance permission of the CSA. From Monday through Saturday, contractors must leave TGO by 6:00 pm from October 1 to April 30 and by 7:00 pm from May 1 to September 30.
Call the CSA Office at 321-268-9767 during regular weekday office hours to request any exceptions to these contractor work restrictions.
Lorraine Murphy Historic Center
Located in the CSA Conference Room next to Trimmer’s Salon.
Available to tour:
Monday - Friday • 3:00 - 5:00 pm Visit the CSA Office to borrow the key. The Historic Center can be shown on weekends and holidays.
Call for an appointment: Lorraine Murphy at 321-431-4526
Love Nature? Want to Help Protect It?
Ready to make a difference right here in The Great Outdoors? The Firewise Committee is looking for a few passionate volunteers to join our group of dedicated neighbors who care about keeping our community safe and beautiful. We have two openings just waiting for someone like you!
What’s involved?
Spend time outside in the fresh air. Work alongside a friendly, down-to-earth team. Help keep our beautiful community safe from wildfire risks. No experience needed - just bring your enthusiasm and love for the outdoors! Together, we can make The Great Outdoors even greater.
Interested? Stop by the CSA office and pick up an application form or go on-line to the website: www.tgocsa.org, then click on CSA Documents/Forms/Application for committee assignment. Fill out the form and take it to the CSA office.
CSA Trash Pick Up Rules
The CSA crew picks up household trash 364 days of the year (off for Christmas). You’ll see them in a big truck pulling one or more green hoppers behind it. The guy crouching on the hopper grabs your trash bag as they pass by. To make the process efficient, please follow these rules:
• Trash must be placed in plastic bags that are tied closed. Lightweight bags should be tied together. Trash that is not in plastic bags may not be picked up.
• Break down all boxes and put all packing material in a closed bag.
• Place trash within one foot of the road so that it’s within easy reach.
• Dispose of your pet’s waste inside the closed trash bag.
• Put trash out at the curb by 10:00 am - Pick-up time varies within the park.
• Do not mix household trash with organic yard debris or construction materials.
• Do not put trash out at night because by morning it will have been scattered by wild animals.
Please do not allow pets to urinate on trash or debris.
The crew has to pick this up!
• Also, be aware that if you place your trash out on the street too early, the vultures think you have prepared them a sack lunch!
CSA Yard Debris Pick-Up Rules
The CSA crew picks up organic yard debris at least once per week. Tree trimmings should be cut down to a maximum of 4 feet long, weigh less than 50 pounds, and be stacked uniformly at the curb. Loose material such as pine needles, leaves and small twigs must be collected in untied plastic bags or open containers. The CSA will not pick up sod, dirt, tree stumps, construction material (e.g., concrete, wood, drywall, metal), chemicals (e.g., paint, oil), major appliances, or tires. DO NOT bring these items to the CSA Maintenance Yard yourself. They may be dropped off, without charge, at the Brevard County Mockingbird Mulching Facility (321-264-5009) on South Street (SR405). Go past the Lowes SR405 entrance then turn LEFT at the first traffic signal. Most other waste items such as carpet, porcelain plumbing fixtures, etc., that are not mentioned above can be dropped off at the Brevard County Transfer Station (321-264-5048) that is also on South Street (SR405), but 0.5 mile past Lowes on the same side of the street.
Clearing Vegetation on CSA Property
Our Declaration of Covenants states that “No CSA land may be cleared of any vegetation without prior written permission from the Board of Directors or its designee. Unauthorized clearing of CSA property will result in a hearing, with possible fines and ordered replanting.” This only makes sense, as you would not cut vegetation on someone else’s property without permission first. In order to track this better, we will require anyone seeking permission to cut vegetation on CSA property to fill out an ARC permit. An approved permit must include the CSA manager’s signature, and a copy of the permit will be filed in your ARC file for documentation purposes.
Guide to Living With Alligators in TGO
There are 32 lakes in The Great Outdoors and all of them are home to alligators. Please keep these points in mind to be safe when alligators could be nearby:
• It is illegal to feed, taunt or harass an alli gator.
• Do not swim or wade in any of our lakes.
• Do not walk near the shorelines and do not walk your pets near the shoreline.
• Do not allow your pets to swim, exercise or drink in or near our lakes.
• While alligators can be active at any time, they are most active between dusk and dawn and move during the night to different water sources.
• Please give our alligators the respect and space they deserve.
NOTE: If you come across an aggressive alligator, please contact the CSA Office prior to SNAP and allow us to handle any situation.
Service and Set-Up Calls - 833-697-7328
The CSA has a contract with Spectrum that includes Spectrum TV Select and Spectrum Internet services. If you are experiencing problems with their service or need to set up a new service, call the number above. Tell them your community at The Great Outdoors has a bulk agreement known as the Bronze Package.
TGO Community Channel 732
Our television channel of the Community Services Association will be active for broadcasting board meetings. Your TV must be equipped with a Spectrum TV cable box or digital adapter.
Automated Visitor Call-In - 321-383-8802
To call in a visitor at the gate, you must call in No More than 24 hours prior to your visitor’s arrival. You will have two options - you may request a one day pass or a two day pass. The phone number you use must already be registered with the CSA Office for the access request to be accepted. This system can not confirm that your request was received and can not respond to any additional messages.
CSA Trouble Calls - 321-268-9767
If you have questions about lawn spraying, getting sprinklers adjusted, or any other services provided by the Community Services Association, residents should contact the CSA Office by email at service@tgocsa.org or call 321-268-9767 to mention your concerns.
Vehicle Barcodes
If your vehicle needs a barcode installed, call the CSA Office at 321-268-9767 to schedule a REQUIRED appointment. Barcodes are $10 - new or replacement. They install them everyday, but will not do “walk-in” applications.
Propane For Sale
Mon - Fri - 8:30, 9:30, 10:30, 11:30 am By Appointment Only - TGO Commercial Area - West of the CSA Building.
CSA offers LP Gas for your convenience and is currently $4.00/gallon, plus 7% sales tax!
Cash or check accepted.
Call the CSA Office at 321-268-9767 for an appointment or visit during office hours. Payment by cash or check. No credit cards accepted at this time.
TruGreen regularly applies spray applications to our lawns and common areas that includes an herbicide for weed control, a liquid fertilizer, and an insecticide to kill chinch bugs, and other turf-damaging insects.
The application dates for 2025: November 18 & 19
TruGreen is also offering “service-call” visits to TGO. If you are still having problems with lawn pests or weeds, call the CSA Office at 321-268-9767, and we will put your address on the TruGreen list.
Service Call Dates are: October 9 & 23
TruGreen advises all TGO residents to stay off treated areas of your lawn, and to keep your pets off treated areas, until the application has thoroughly dried.
AED Basics (Automated External Defibrillator) Have Someone Call 9-1-1 While You Operate AED
The Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a portable electronic device that diagnoses incorrect heart rhythm patterns that could potentially be life threatening. The device treats the condition with electrical shocks.
AED use requires minimal training because an electronic voice prompts the user through each step. If you are helping a person who collapsed and you’re unsure if a heart attack is the reason, don’t hesitate to use the AED. Every minute counts.
The device determines if the patient needs an electrical shock or not. Simply place the AED pads on the patient’s bare skin, one on the right upper chest and the other on their lower left side. No one else should be touching the patient because false readings could result. The AED will advise you, the device operator, what to do next.
TGO Has Eight AEDs Located at CSA buildings.
1. Blue Heron - Outside Ramp 137 Plantation Drive
2. CSA Office - Outside 100-D Plantation Drive
3. Fitness Center 145 Plantation Drive
4. Hidden Lakes Clubhouse 461 Ambleside Drive
5. Library Kitchen 385 Plantation Drive
6. Oak Cove Pool Bathhouse 434 Oak Cove Road
7. Plantation Manor 145 Plantation Way
8. Windsong Bathhouse 155 Windsong Way
Golf Cart Gas
Monday - Friday - 9:00 - 11:00 am
The Community Services Association offers gasoline at the CSA Maintenance Area for TGO residents’ Golf Carts. Fill-up time is Monday through Friday from 9:00 - 11:00 am. The gas price is based on the prevailing rate charged to the CSA. Payment is CASH ONLY.
SUDOKU puzzles have one solution that can be reached logically without guessing. Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row, column, and 3x3 square must contain one of each digit.
TGO MarketPlace
Randy’s Specialty Services
Classified Ads
Classified Ads are only for tangible and real Property that are For Sale, For Rent or Wanted within TGO. They are not for Services Provided or out of park items. Classified ads are for TGO residents only. Cost is $10 per ad for 25 words maximum. Payment can be made by credit card, cash or check, payable to “CSA” at time of placing your ad. No refunds for early cancellation. You must fill out a Classified Ad Form that is available ONLY at the CSA Office, 100 D Plantation Drive.
RV LOTS, HOMES, MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS FOR SALE OR RENT
FOR RENT: 133 Sunset Drive - Available October 1 - December 31. No Pets. No Smoking. Washer/Dryer. 217-732-2418 (exp 10/17)
FOR SALE: 538 Oak Cove Road. Desirable/Quiet 2Bdr, 2Ba Park Model - W/D. 2021 New HVAC & Water Heater. 2025 New roof, blinds, LVP flooring & paint. 11’ port clearance. $258,500 with $2,500/Month lease option available. Call 386-290-9105 (exp 10/17)
FOR RENT: 429 Plantation Drive - Port site, 14’ clearance. Rate based on length of stay. 440-878-8700 or jeff@ smutek.com (exp 10/3)
We Have Three Committee Openings
Landscape & Beautification Committee
We are looking to fill three positions. This committee helps provide landscaping and beautification project planning for CSA and is also responsible for the general health of the lakes within the community. If you have expertise in landscaping design (especially in Florida), lake biology, or simply want to contribute to making TGO better looking, please stop by the CSA office and pick up an application.
Safety & Security Committee
They are looking to fill the Vice Chair position. This committee monitors the safety, security and communications operations in TGO to assure this is a safe community for our residents, guests and employees. The Committee periodically inspects CSA facilities to insure compliance with established safety and security practices and procedures to identify potential safety hazards and security concerns and recommends policies and/or actions to the Board.
Human Resources Committee
They are looking to fill the Vice Chair position. This Committee works with the CSA Manager on the development and implementation of CSA human resource policies and procedures, and serves as an advisor to the CSA Board and the CSA Manager on human resource policies and procedures.
Applications Available Online...
Go to www.tgocsa.org then click on CSA documents/ forms/application for committee assignment. Fill out the form and deliver to the office. Or ask for an application at the CSA office. If you have previously filled out an application, please redo your application to bring it up to date.
Keep Your Swing Up To Par
Whether it’s back pain, stiffness, or limited range of motion, Chiropractic Care keeps you in alignment - so you can focus on your swing, not your symptoms.
At Active Spine Center, we offer personalized therapies and techniques designed to make your journey to pain relief, recovery, and total-body wellness effective and rewarding. We provide an array of specialized services to help get you back on your feet and and keep you moving forward with confidence and ease.
Dr. Steven Smith, D.C
Dr. Joanie Kriz, D.C Doctor
Dr. Erin Przybyla, D.C. Doctor of Chiropractic
• Chiropractic Care
• Spinal Decompression
• Near-Infrared Laser Therapy
• Dry Needling
• Body Contouring Shrinks the Fat Cells and Helps in Losing Weight
• Neuropathy Treatment
in October and
be used any time up to May 1, 2026.
also offer a one time $49 trial for anyone to test it.
AMBROSIA
APPLE BETTY
APPLE BUTTER
APPLE CIDER
APPLE COBBLER
APPLE CRISP
APPLE PIE
APPLE SAUCE
APPLE STRUDEL
BRAEBURN
CARMEL APPLE
CORTLAND
CRISP APPLES
EMPIRE
ENTERPRISE FALL
GALA
GRANNY SMITH
HEIRLOOM
HONEYCRISP
IDARED JAZZ
JONAGOLD
JONATHAN
MACOUN
MCINTOSH
NORTHERN SPY
PAULA RED
PINK LADY APPLES
RED DELICIOUS SWEET TART
SWEET TANGO
ACTIVITIES OFFICE - Logo Items
Inside the Hobbyland Building
Carmella Zielinski • 321-289-0150
BLUE HERON RESTAURANT
321-385-9100
11:00 am - 8:00 pm Daily
Lunch and Dinner or Take-Out Food www.blueheronrestaurant.org
THE CAFÉ at the Blue Heron Restaurant
321-385-9100
Entrance Door just past Golf Shop Door
Lunch and Dinner
11:00 am - 8:00 pm Daily
CSA OFFICE - 321-268-9767
Monday - Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Closed 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
100 D Plantation Drive
EAGLE’S PRIDE - 321-383-0288
RV Parts, Service and Supplies
Monday - Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Closed Weekends
Eaglespriderv@yahoo.com
EAGLE’S PRIDE RV SALES - 321-383-4495
Consignment RV Sales Lot
Monday - Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Closed Sunday • sales@eaglespriderv.com
GUARD GATE - 321-383-2004
Call to alert Courtesy Patrol about any TGO community problem. Call to request assistance from CSA On-Site Maintenance.
GOLFCARTS UNLIMITED - 321-268-4882
Yamaha - Club Car - MadJax - DACH Sales, Service and Rentals
VISITOR ACCESS - 321-383-8802 Call to arrange a one day or two day Guest Pass for a visitor.
THE HAPPENINGS
Open Monday - Friday • 8:00 am - 5:00 pm • 100D Plantation Drive
The Great Outdoors Community Services Association (CSA) publishes The Happenings for the information and enjoyment of its members and their guests. The CSA assumes no liability for any information, omission or inadvertent error contained herein; or injury or damage resulting from the use of this information. The ideas, opinions, suggestions, classified ads, and commercial ads are to be used at the reader’s discretion. The CSA and group or individual contributors do not signify any approval, authentication, or endorsement by inclusion in this publication. For advertising rates or editorial information, contact The Happenings: Happenings@tgocsa.com
FOCUSED ON THE FUTURE OF PATIENT CARE
As an ACS surgical quality partner, this is our commitment to you: the highest levels of surgical care, constant evaluation of the care we give and a relentless approach to self-improvement.
This hospital is an ACS Surgical Quality Partner by participating in select ACS Quality Programs.