The HOA Communications Committee serves as the supervisory body for The Heron per Article IX of our by-laws.
Christine Kozak is the committee liasion from the HOA Board of Directors.
The Heron Editorial Policy is on file in the HOA office. Articles for The Heron may be dropped off or mailed to The HOA Office, 2250 Herons Glen Blvd., N. Fort Myers, FL 33917 or emailed to hgnewspaper@gmail.com
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VOG Dinner Dance Honors And Celebrates Military Veterans
PAM SCHEID, HERONS GLEN
The ballroom was packed for the annual Veterans Day dinner dance sponsored by the Veterans of the Glen. Guests were seated at tables decorated in patriotic red, white, and blue by members of Alpha Delta Alpha sorority. The banners displayed above the stage, representing each branch of the military, included a new addition this year. Members of the Alpha Delta Mu presented to the VOG at its October meeting a banner representing the Merchant Marines.
VOG President Bruce Johnson welcomed everyone to this festive evening that began with
a brief ceremony to honor USA military veterans. As part of his presentation, Johnson reported that he had recently learned that the remains of a soldier who was killed in World War II had been found and would be returned to the family. With that in mind, Johnson explained the significance of the Missing Man’s Table set up in the front of the room. Johnson also announced that some new innovations like the use of the club’s new video equipment had been added to the ceremony. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by comedian Red Skelton from a charming skit he filmed years ago. A famous patriotic address by President Ronald Reagan was also played, then the video featured a trio of Andrews Sisters impersonators who led our veterans and their guests in singing the theme songs of their military branches.
Celebrating the service and sacrifice by our military is also an important part of this Veterans Day dance. A threeentrée buffet was prepared for the 265 Glenners in attendance, which included a slice of the red, white, and blue cakes
donated by Rich Morea with Caldwell Bankers Realty and by Jerry and Lynn Kaminski.
The celebration continued as energetic dancers enjoyed the music by The Wilburys band sponsored by The Steil Group realtors.
When the band took its break, it was time to draw for the 65-inch TV door prize donated by The Glen Group and for the 50-50 cash prize. The 50-50 ticket sales and those for the raffle prizes were run by members of the Alpha Delta Mu sorority. The generous raffle prize donations by local businesses were collected by VOG board members
Mike Zarella, Sandy Herde, Sue Savage, and Bruce Johnson. Janice Radcliff sponsored photographer Tina Lewis who spent the evening making a permanent record of all the festivities.
This patriotic event and its Christmas dance are major fundraising events for the VOG. The money they raise is donated to organizations and agencies that serve area veterans such as Hearts and Homes, the Lee-Collier Honor Flights, and All for Veterans, a service that focuses on helping veterans find treatment for PTSD.
BRUCE JOHNSON AND REPS FROM ALL FOR VETS
Socialites Introduced To Valerie’s House
PAM SCHEID, HERONS GLEN
November is National Childhood Grief Awareness Month. Socialites learned at their luncheon that meeting the needs of children who have lost a parent or a sibling has been the mission of Valerie’s House, whose belief is that no child should grieve alone.
Socialites’ member Patty Amico introduced Kathy Berg, the representative from Valerie’s House. Patty explained that after her daughter’s death, she is raising her teenage granddaughter. Patty expressed her gratitude for the support of this organization and for what it has done for the two of them.
Berg explained that Valerie’s House is named after Valerie Melvin, who died in 1987 in an automobile accident in Fort Myers. Dealing with her own grief, Valerie’s oldest daughter Angela was inspired to bring this support mission to Southwest Florida.
Located in Fort Myers on what is now named Valerie’s Way, the house offers a home-like environment where program participants can gather after school or work to be with other children, parents, and grandparents who share their feelings of loss. They offer group sessions and individual counselling for children from the age of 5 to 18.
The need for this support program has grown so much there are also Valerie’s Houses in Naples and Punta Gorda. Each house has its hired staff, but the program depends on volunteers. It receives no government money, so it depends on fundraisers and individual donations. At the program’s close, Rhonda Parkinson presented Berg with a check from the Socialites. In addition, because she had put it on her wish list, the Socialites gave Berg several bags of rocks suitable for painting in their art therapy sessions. The bags of rocks
were clever and thoughtful centerpieces arranged by Mary Lou Pierozzi.
Before the program, President Janet Kerns welcomed everyone and introduced Donna Moffatt who reminded the group that Angel Tree gifts are due. Cheryl Dawes introduced two new members, and Treasurer Bev Groft reported November’s member donation to the All Souls food bank totaled $425, and the proceeds from the bake sale totaled $725, which will go to PACE Center for Girls.
Socialites will meet again on December 17, when they will host students from the North Fort Myers Academy of the Arts.
RHONDA PARKINSON, KATHY BERG, PATTY AMICO
CELEBRATION OF LEGACY
Honoring 25 Years of Artistic Excellence: Southwest Florida's Premier Art Festival Join the Tradition This Year. Enjoyment For All Ages.
FEBRUARY 1 & 2, 2025
OPENING NIGHT JANUARY 31
Downtown Fort Myers Riverfront
FREE ADMISSION & EASY PARKING!
Enjoy and purchase some of the best artwork exhibited anywhere in Florida!
1/16 Kat Orlando Duo Ballroom 1/18 Concert Series No. 1 Ballroom 1/19 Ice Cream Social TBD
1/21 Socialites Ballroom 1/23 Farmers’ Market Parking Lot
1/23 Sunset Duo Restaurant 1/23 Showcase Ballroom 1/25 John Housley TBD
1/26 Activities Fair Ballroom
1/29 Trivia Ballroom
1/30 Farmers’ Market Parking Lot 1/30 Jay Smith Ballroom
Ken Cidela
Ricardo Gomez
John Gross
Michael Munson
HOA AND HGRD SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS
Calendar Of HOA Meetings December 10 To January
The following is a listing of HOA and HGRD meetings known at the time of publication. As these dates are subject to change, please check the Herons Glen website calendar and the community channel (Bluestream Channel 901) for updates.
All committee meetings are via Zoom/HOA Conference Room unless noted otherwise.
12/10 Architectural Review Committee, 9 a.m.
12/11 Annual Meeting and Board Meeting, 4:30 p.m., Ballroom
12/12 Grounds Committee, 1 p.m.
12/18 Communications Committee, 1 p.m.
12/19 Activities Committee, 10 a.m.
12/24 Architectural Review Committee, 9 a.m.
12/26 Finance Committee, 1:30 p.m.
12/27 SSEP Committee, 8:30 p.m.
1/7/25 Board Workshop, 1 p.m.
1/9 Grounds Committee, 1 p.m.
1/14 Architectural Review Committee, 9 a.m.
1/15 Communications Committee, 1 p.m.
1/15 Board Meeting, 5 p.m.
1/16 Activities Committee, 10 a.m.
1/23 Finance Committee, 1:30 p.m.
1/24 SSEP Committee, 8:30 a.m.
1/28 Architectural Review Committee, 9 a.m.
Calendar Of HGRD Meetings December 9 To January.
As these dates are subject to change, please check the HGRD website calendar and the community channel (Bluestream Channel 902) for updates.
All committee meetings are via Zoom/Card Room C unless noted otherwise.
The following is a list of volunteers who will be taking calls for transportation assistance.
Note: This doesn’t include rides to the airport.
Kathleen Colletti (239) 822-1573
Bruce Johnson (716) 472-3860
Donna Johnson (716) 450-7740
Polly Middleton (703) 407-6381
Jim Noffsinger (270) 881-7640
Mike Zarella (541) 292-2714
We are always looking for volunteers. If you are interested, please contact Jack Cotter at (860) 490-2183.
Community News
THE HOA NEEDS YOUR PROXY FORM!
FROM THE HERONS GLEN HOA
The annual meeting of the Herons Glen HOA will be held on Wednesday, December 11 at 4:30 p.m. in the Herons Glen Ballroom.
To hold the annual membership meeting, it is necessary to have a quorum of 30% of the voting members – a minimum of 390 members – in person at the meeting or by proxy. Even if you will be attending the meeting, it is important for you to submit a proxy form to the HOA.
The proxy form is NOT a vote on anything. It is a form that states you have authorized either the Secretary of
the Herons Glen HOA or another person of your choice to stand as your representative so that you will count towards the needed quorum.
Proxy forms are available on the table outside the HOA Office or you may request a proxy form by emailing hoaoffice@ heronsglenhoa.org.
An online copy of the proxy form can be found by clicking on the following link: https://heronsglenhoa.wufoo.com/forms/ w18vjzgf0bhf2sp/. You can fill out this form and submit it online.
If you prefer, you can download and print a copy that you can return to the HOA Office. The link to print a copy is: https://mcusercontent. com/83f3a8329d3448e2445bda537/ files/53e7cb3f-c5f2-cb87-6f2032d33b79075b/Proxy_2024.pdf.
Completed proxy forms can also be mailed to: Herons Glen HOA Office, 2250 Herons Glen Boulevard, North Fort Myers, FL 33917 or emailed to hoaoffice@ heronsglenhoa.org. You may also fold the proxy and leave it in the HOA Payment Box outside the HOA main door.
Please take a moment to complete the proxy form and return it to the HOA Office no later than December 10 so this annual meeting can be held. Thank you.
ADM sisters took a fun trip to the Broadway Palm to see the play Chicago on October 27. A few days later several sisters attended the Veterans of the Glen (VOG) meeting on Wednesday, October 30. At the meeting, ADM presented the VOG members with a Merchant Marine flag that will hang with the other military service flags at VOG dances in the future. In a short talk, Edd Huetteman, a former Naval Officer and graduate of the Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, N.Y., described the role that the Merchant Marines play in both war and peace. Edd sailed as a First Engineer on a merchant freighter for 5 1/2 years. He took bombs to Vietnam in 1968 and 1969. He sailed around the world as a cadet when he was just 18. Oh, the stories he could have told that evening.
On November 16 and 17, ADM held its annual downsizing sale with all proceeds going to veteran organizations and
the sorority’s numerous other charities. Following the sale, a party to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of ADM was held at Joy Venker’s house. The sisters are looking forward to attending VOG holiday activities in support of veteran charities. The sorority’s Christmas party will close out the calendar year.
EDD HUETTEMAN, CANDACE HUETTEMAN, JOY VENKER, MARY PORTER, VICKY REID, JULIE BYRNE, CATHY BABAL, KAREN WALTZ, ELAINE QUILLIAN, RUTH POSTER AND TERRY ROSEN
ALPHA DELTA ALPHA BEGINS NEW SEASON
DENISE JOHNSON, HERONS GLEN
Although ADA met in October without many of our snowbirds, our full meeting in November set the tone for the 2024/25 season. We look forward to continuing our community service and support to All Souls Outreach, Hearts and Homes for Veterans and Island Coast High School. We have several social events planned for educational opportunities and just fun.
Our annual Foster’s Grille fundraiser benefitting Hearts and Homes for Veterans will be held on Monday, January 13, 2025. Mark your calendar now. Herons Glen residents continue to turn out to support this worthy cause. It is a fun night of good food with friends and family and even strangers that choose to participate. Hearts and Homes staff will be mingling to answer your questions. Watch for the flyer to appear in December, as well as reminders on Google group.
We look forward to a season of sisterhood and community service this new season.
ELAINE QUILLIAN, TERRY ROSEN, CANDACE HUETTEMAN, MARY PORTER, JOY VENKER AND JOAN DARCY
START OF A NEW SEASON FOR THE CHORUS
DAVID MUIR, HERONS GLEN
The Herons Glen Chorus has been a part of the community for many years. One of its founders, Jim Slater, still sings in the chorus at age 94. But the chorus had been disbanded for 5 years due partly to the retirement of directors and to COVID, when Ed Huetteman pushed to bring it back. Two years ago, Ed, Sue Atkin, Claudia Tweedle and David Muir organized some rehearsals and were overwhelmed by the enthusiasm of the chorus members and support from the community as a whole. Now the reformed chorus is preparing for its third season, and we’d be glad to have you join us if you love to sing.
BENEFITS OF JOINING A CHORUS
The following are some quoted benefits of singing told by many:
• It was in a choir I discovered the sheer joy of making music with others.
• It was in a choir that I discovered my confidence both musically and personally.
• It is in a choir that I always have a source of comfort, a family and a sanctuary away from the world around me.
The science of music talks about:
• The calming effect of music
• The augmentation of memory through music
• The enhancement of left and right hemispheres of the brain
• The feeling of connecting beyond oneself
HOW TO JOIN THE HERONS GLEN CHORUS
Rehearsals begin Sunday, January 5 in the ballroom from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Come watch to see if it works for you. If you know you are joining, please be there at 1:30 p.m.
A Meet and Greet will be held Monday, January 6 at 7 p.m. in Activity Room A for all who are interested in joining the chorus. Please bring your beverage and an appetizer to share.
NEW MARBLES SEASON BEGINS
PATTI CUMMINGS, HERONS GLEN
On October 27, another Marbles Tournament season began. Nine tables of enthusiastic players joined in the ballroom at 6 p.m. for an evening of fun and fellowship with their neighbors. Some of them are in photos accompanying this article. During the evening two teams (both women’s teams) won all three games better known as a
sweep. They are pictured with their names. Due to the women’s great playing they now lead the monthly score with women 14 and men 13. The next Marbles evening will be on November 17; however, this date is after the November deadline so we will report in January. There will be no Marbles in December, but the games will resume January 12, 2025. Make your plans now for many evenings of fun.
IN THE SPIRIT OF HALLOWEEN CANDACE HUETTEMAN, HERONS GLEN
How was the Halloween Dance? Ask the Vampire. He said, “It didn’t suck.” Ask the ghost. He said it was, “spooktacular.” The dance floor was full all night as almost everyone danced to the music of the band, “Double Dare.” Of the 161 partiers, many were baffled as to “who’s who” wearing the “screamingly” fun and clever costumes. With so many entrees in the costume contest and so much yelling and cheering for the favorites, it was hard to choose a winner in each category. However, “The Minions,” Tony and Kelly Johnston were voted the best in the couples’ category and “The Super Herons” won as the best group.
ANNE BILLINGS, ROSIE SWISHER AND THERESA MCGARRY
PAT STUCHLY, CINDY BROWN AND PEGGY LINDQUIST
Congratulations to the Resident Events Committee for hosting a great party. Maybe you should plan now to attend the New Year’s Eve Dance. It’s sure to be another enjoyable event.
FIRST PLACE SINGLE, COLONEL SANDERS AND CHICKEN – PHIL BONDI AND WENDY MURRAY
FIRST PLACE COUPLE, MINIONS – TONY AND KELLY JOHNSTON
FIRST PLACE GROUP, MARVEL HEROES: CATWOMAN AND BATMAN – KATHLEEN AND MIKE ROLLER, SPIDERWOMAN AND UNDERDOG – SYLVIA AND KEN MAROHN, THOR AND STORM – CHARLES AND JERILYN SUNBERG, LORI AND RON DECKER, PATRICK CAHILL – THE HULK, SANDI ALE – POISON IVY, DAN HAMILTON – CAPTAIN AMERICA AND KIM HAMILTON
ALPHA GAMMA DELTA CHAPTER NEWS
NANCY THOMPSON, HERONS GLEN
As the first chapter of the Beta Sigma Phi international sorority established in Herons Glen, Alpha Gamma Delta (AGD) has developed a long history of service-oriented fundraisers supporting charities and donations through a variety of projects. Most recently, Alpha Gamma Delta hosted its annual Herons Glen Craft Fair in the ballroom of our community on Saturday, November 2. With over 47 vendors, both HG crafters and outside
vendors, the ballroom was a kaleidoscope of crafts, products and colors. Represented were artists’ original paintings, ceramics and pottery, crafters’ knit goods, leather goods and other unique handcrafted items. The AGD chapter sisters sold their famous homemade cheddar cheese and beef/ onion cheese balls and over 300 various flavors of artfully decorated chocolate, yellow, white, and spice cake balls. Raffles for $100 of lottery tickets, wine and liquor baskets, along with a Booze Buggy (you guessed it, booze!) and so many, many more, were big hits! This Craft Fair continues to be the primary fundraising project of AGD. All monies earned by the vendors’ table rental fee is donated directly to Special Equestrians, Inc, as a 501(3)(c) charity.
Established in 1987, this organization’s mission is to enhance physical, emotional, and cognitive growth for individuals with disabilities through equine assisted activities and therapies. The organization serves people referred to Special Equestrians by doctors, therapists and teachers, “helping people one stride at a time” is the aim of Special Equestrians.
There is a new program, Horses and Humans in Harmony, specifically designed for the personal unmounted interactions of veterans with the horses. The participant application is located on their website, specialequestrians. net , along with descriptions of their programs and events, donation and volunteer opportunities and contact number, (239) 226-1221.
Our AGD chapter contributes service along with financial support to several other organizations. We donate Bears for Cops to the local police agencies for use in situations where children or a disabled or challenged adult may find calmness and security during stressful interactions. In addition, we contribute to
Hearts and Homes for Veterans, and to the Glen’s annual Pretty in Pink fundraiser.
Our AGD chapter is always eager to embrace questions and to provide information on our group to anyone interested in joining a service-oriented group of women dedicated to sharing ourselves, our treasure, our talent and our love, with our Herons Glen community, our local community, our neighbors and our friends, for the continued celebration of people helping people. Text President Nancy Hentges at (715) 8536281 or Vice President Nancy Thompson at (315) 466-9091.
SAVE THE DATE! Our next annual Craft Fair will be November 8, 2025. Hope to see you there.
TRAVEL CLUB TRAVELS
TO STETSON MANSION AND MORSE MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART!
DUANE PARKINSON, HERONS GLEN
Fifty-one excited members of our very active HG Travel Club boarded our motorcoach on Wednesday, November 13, and our professional driver headed to DeLand, Florida, just north
of Orlando for our Travel Club’s overnight trip. Four hours after departing the Glen, we began our buffet lunch at Cook’s Buffet and Bakery. Even though it is a “buffet,” Travel Advisor reviewers rank it as No. 9 out of 167 restaurants in DeLand. And that ranking did not disappoint us.
Then, we bused over just a few blocks to the Stetson Mansion. It was built in 1886 by the famous hatmaker, John Stetson. At the time, the three-story mansion was the largest mansion and the most beautiful “Gilded Age” mansion in Florida. The current owners spend literally months each summer and fall decorating the interior rooms with “you would not believe” Christmas ornamentation. The rooms of the bottom two stories are full of Christmas memorabilia, including over 50 Nativity scenes from around the world. Greenery. Angels. Trees. Lights. Words just cannot describe the decorations; it has to be literally seen to believe. Or just go to their website to see photos of the decorations (stetsonmansion. com). Our tour guides were extremely knowledgeable of the mansion’s history and why each room was decorated in the way it was. The mansion
has hosted numerous dignitaries in its history, including the King and Queen of England, U.S. President Grover Cleveland, and its electrical system was installed by Thomas Edison.
TIFFANY LAMPS
After a restful night’s sleep at the Courtyard by Marriott, we boarded the motorcoach and departed a short distance for Winter Park, just north of Orlando, and received a guided tour at the Morse Museum of American Art. The museum houses the world’s largest collection of Tiffany art glass. We commonly think of Tiffany glass as those beautiful lampshades. But Louis Tiffany began his artistic career as a painter and then transferred that artistic desire into beautiful glassworks in the late 1800s and early 1900s. In addition to the lampshades that we are familiar
STETSON MANSION
STETSON MANSION INTERIOR
MORSE MUSEUM
TIFFANY BIRDS
with, he has also done many larger stained glassworks such as residence windows and even amazingly beautiful cathedral windows. The museum has room after room of his artwork. It also is a “must see” if you are in the area. And interestingly, his father founded the famous Tiffany jewelry stores. Have any of you ladies received a surprise gift in one of those distinctive teal blue boxes?
After lunch in the area around the museum at one of the many delightful restaurants and exploring numerous local shops and art galleries, we reluctantly (but also wanting to
WINE AND DINE COMING IN 2025
Back by popular demand, the restaurant will offer their dinner and wine pairings in 2025. This intimate setting is limited to 50 people so take note of the following dates:
• Saturday, January 25th
• Saturday, February 8th
• Friday, March 21st
For more information call (239) 731-4545.
get back “home”), boarded the motorcoach and returned to the Glen. We were tired, but excited about what we had experienced with our friends in the Travel Club.
We look forward to many future overnight trips within our wonderful state of Florida and many new experiences together! If you would like to join our club ($5 per person per year), we’d love to have you share our experiences. Our next formal meeting is on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, 2 to 4 p.m. in the Clubhouse Ballroom. Our club now has 306 members; come and join us.
And obviously a huge thank you to Rhonda Parkinson for her wonderful planning of our trip. Thank you, Rhonda.
Community Interests
THE ATALA BUTTERFLY AND ITS HOST PLANT
HELEN GRAZIANO, HERONS GLEN
KIM BASILE, HERONS GLEN
The Atala butterfly (Eumaeus atala) is known for its vibrant colors and fascinating life cycle. It is native to the Southeastern United States and parts of the Caribbean. It has come to near extinction but has resurged, tied to the availability of its host plant, the coontie (Zamia integrifolia) which is a native cycad found in Florida and the Caribbean.
The Atala was thought to be extinct but is a conservation success due to landscaping practices and the coontie becoming popular in residential and commercial gardens. The coontie was once used by the earliest residents of Florida as a source of food. Although the plant is naturally poisonous to humans, the Seminole tribe developed a way of preparing roots and underground stems so toxins were extracted and the remaining starch was used for baking bread.
The female Atalas lay their eggs on the coontie leaves and the larvae feed on the leaves, which provide them with toxic
compounds for defense against predators. After feeding, the caterpillars form pale chrysalises with metallic gold markings.
The Atala butterfly is brilliantly colored, with red or orange bodies and bright yellow spots, which serve as a warning to predators. Adults have velvety black wings with iridescent blue-green scales and a bright red-orange abdomen. While they don’t rely on a nectar source, they help pollinate flowering plants.
With the resilience of this butterfly and conservation practices, including the use of more native plants, the Atala has rebounded and can now be found in increasing numbers. Consider planting coontie in your garden to support the Atala, but it also is an attractive and low maintenance plant in your landscaping. Coonties are drought tolerant and thrive in sunny to partially shaded areas and are a good addition to butterfly gardens.
AND IT’S A NEW SEASON FOR THE EAGLES!
LINDA LYNCH, HERONS GLEN
The snowbirds aren’t the only ones returning to their Florida homes. It’s also the 2024/25 season for Florida bald eagle nesting, and our North Fort Myers celebrity eagles, M15 and F23 (Male 15, Female 23) have returned to their nest about 60 feet up in a slash pine on the Bayshore Road property of Dick Pritchett Real Estate.
From 2006-2014, the original bald eagle pair known as Ozzie and Harriet utilized this nest. Ozzie died in the fall of 2015 and Harriet took a new mate, M15. From 2015-2022, Harriet and M15 successfully raised at least one eaglet every season from this nest.
After eight seasons as a mated pair, in February 2023 Harriet left and never returned to the nest. M15 stepped up and on his own successfully raised their young E21 and E22 (Eaglets 21 and 22) to fledge. For the next season, 2023/24, M15 mated with another female, F23, to initiate a new chapter in the North Fort Myers eagle nest lore.
Bald eagles are known for their nest affinity and often reuse the
same nest year after year. Even if one of a pair dies, as was the case with Ozzie, the existing partner (Harriet) often uses the “old” nest with a new partner (M15). Since last season M15 and F23 have made this nest their home.
Because the Caloosahatchee River is only about a half mile from the nesting site, the river provides a key source of food for the adults and eventually their eaglets.
One of the things that makes this eagle nest special is that
D.F. Pritchett
Real Estate has for 13 years provided a live webcam view of the nest. There are four live feed cameras that provide different views of the nest and its residents, none of which disturb the eagles or make any sounds.
Since M15 and F23 are using this same nest, the cameras continue to provide coverage of their
nesting activities. Thousands of viewers are often online watching the pair and eventually their eaglets. People can also stand outside a fence around the property, using their own cameras and phones to take pictures and videos of the nest and eagles.
This season is now well underway with the arrival of egg #1 on November 8 and egg #2 on November 11. In approximately 30 days, it is hoped the attentive parental care will yield two precious eaglets.
The website is available at https:// dickpritchettrealestate.com/. Using the website, you can watch in real time as M15 and F23 mind the nest, as the eggs hatch, and as the parents feed and care for their eaglets until they fledge.
We are delighted that M15 and F23 have chosen to stay at the Bayshore nest so we can all observe the breeding and parenting activities of these truly enchanting creatures.
MISTLETOE: ITS MEANING, LEGEND, AND LORE
CANDACE HUETTEMAN, HERONS GLEN
Of all the plants used as Christmas decorations, none has the long and interesting history as the mistletoe. The mistletoe tradition says that a man is allowed to kiss any woman standing beneath a sprig or bouquet of mistletoe, and vice versa. If a kiss is refused, bad luck will befall the person who said “No.”
But what kind of a plant is mistletoe? Mistletoe is a semi-parasitic plant that produces yellow flowers and small white berries. It is most easily seen in winter, and it grows almost exclusively in fruit trees, maples and sometimes oak trees. It finds its home, like many seeds do, through bird droppings. Birds eat the white berries and spread the seeds while sitting on the branches. As the seed begins to grow, the plant attaches itself to the host tree in order to get water and the essential nutrients it needs to survive.
Not only is mistletoe a parasitic plant that comes from bird droppings, but the origin of the name itself can be somewhat unattractive. One translation is derived from two Anglo Saxon words, “mistle” meaning dung and “tan” meaning stick or branch. But, another translation of the Saxon word “mistl-tan” translates to “different twig.”
Druid priests saw mistletoe as a “different twig.” They considered it a symbol of life because even when its host is lifeless, it is green and bears fruit in the winter. Its history goes back to the first century A.D. to the Celtic Druids. This ancient civilization of people lived on the British Isles in what is now Ireland and Scotland. Druid priests thought mistletoe was sacred because it didn’t grow in the ground. When they found it growing on an oak, their most sacred tree, they considered it to be the soul of the tree. The high priest would climb the tree on the sixth night of the new Moon after the winter solstice and cut the mistletoe with a golden sickle. Worshippers caught the pieces in their long white robes or on a white cloth spread under the tree. It was bad luck to let even the smallest piece touch the ground. The faithful would wear mistletoe charms for good luck and protection from witches and evil spirits. Sprays of mistletoe hung over the doorway ensured that only happiness could enter the home.
Today we hang mistletoe over our doorways with the hope of getting a kiss. But how did this tradition come about? In old Norse, or Scandinavian mythology, there is the legend of Frigga, the goddess of love, who had a son named Balder who was the god of innocence and light. To protect him, Frigga demanded
that all creatures, and even inanimate objects, swear an oath not to harm her son. But she forgot to include mistletoe. Loki, the god of evil and destruction, learned of this and made an arrow from a sprig of mistletoe. He then tricked Hoth, Balder’s blind brother, into shooting the mistletoe arrow as he, Loki, guided it to kill Balder. The death of Balder, the god of light, meant the death of sunlight and long winter nights followed in the north. Frigga’s tears fell on to the mistletoe and they turned into white berries. She decreed that mistletoe should never cause harm again, but should promote love and peace. From then on, anyone standing under mistletoe would get a kiss. Even mortal enemies meeting under mistletoe by accident had to put their weapons aside and exchange a kiss of peace, declaring a truce for the day.
Have a Merry Christmas, and if you find yourself standing under the mistletoe, enjoy a kiss from your special someone.
CHRISTMAS TREE AND HOLIDAY CANDLE FIRE SAFETY
CRAIG WOOLLEY, HERONS GLEN
The SSEP would like to increase your awareness about holiday fires in your homes.
FACTS ABOUT HOME HOLIDAY FIRES
(Source: National Fire Protection Association)
• One of every three home Christmas tree fires is caused by electrical problems.
• A heat source too close to the tree causes about one in every four Christmas tree fires.
• More than half (56 percent) of home candle fires occur when
something that can catch on fire is too close to the candle.
• December is the peak time of year for home candle fires.
In roughly 11 seconds a Christmas fire can spread to nearby combustibles. Be sure to keep lit candles away from all combustible materials.
Let’s all have a safe Christmas season.
USE GENERATORS SAFELY AT HOME
CRAIG WOOLLEY, HERONS GLEN
With Milton long gone, the SSEP just wanted to follow up on a few portable generator safety tips.
Generators are emergency equipment that provide a
secondary source of power when there is an electric failure. Many of us used portable generators because of power failure in the wake of Hurricane Milton. Generators can be helpful during a power outage, but they present serious health and safety concerns.
Be Aware Of Hazards
• Carbon monoxide poisoning
• Electrocution
• Fire
Safety Tips
Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use the generator.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
• Do not assume that you are safe. Carbon monoxide from generators is completely colorless and odorless, so you won’t know if it’s there. It could kill your family and your pets.
• Do not use a generator indoors or in partially enclosed spaces – including homes, garages, and crawl spaces – even those areas with partial ventilation.
• Do not operate near open doors and windows. Using
fans will not prevent carbon monoxide build-up in the home.
• Install battery-powered carbon monoxide alarms inside your home to alert you of dangerous levels. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommended placement.
• Keep your generator at least 20 feet away from any openings.
Electrocution Or Electric Shock
• Always connect the generator to appliances with heavy-duty
TRIVIA CORNER
JACK NELSON, HERONS GLEN
Here are five trivia questions to test your memory and common knowledge. Don’t peek at the answers until you’ve finished. Good luck!
1. What was the last date of the 20th century?
2. What was the cause of the sinking of RMS Lusitania?
3. What is the smallest ocean on planet Earth?
4. In what two states will you find Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park?
5. Name the three U. S. Army generals who became president of the United States.
extension cords. Do not use extension cords that are frayed, spliced or if the grounding pin is missing.
• Do not run your extension cords through standing water or across roadways.
• Do not use a plug strip to run multiple extension cords off your generator.
Fire
• Keep your generator outside and fuel your generator outside.
• Do not store fuel for your generator in your house.
Gasoline, propane, kerosene, diesel and other flammable liquids should be stored outside living areas in properly labeled, non-glass safety containers.
• Do not store fuel near a fuelburning appliance, for example a gas stove.
• If the fuel is spilled or the container is not sealed properly, invisible vapors from the fuel can travel along the ground and be ignited by the appliance’s pilot light or by arcs from electric switches.
• Before refueling the generator, turn it off and let it cool down. Gasoline or other flammable liquids spilled on hot engine parts could ignite,
and invisible vapors from the fuel can travel along the ground and be ignited by the generator’s pilot light or by arcs from electric switches in the appliance.
HE SAVED THE WORLD!
JACK NELSON, HERONS GLEN
Tommy Brainerd was handsome, loveable, and gifted. He was precocious since the day he was born. At two weeks old, he was winking at his mom. At six months he was walking. At eighteen months he was reciting the alphabet, forward and backward! On his second birthday, he showed his mathematical prowess by mastering long division. He had memorized the periodic table of the elements while a kindergartener.
By the time Tommy had graduated from eighth grade, he’d taken every IQ test that was available on the planet, and he aced them all! His teachers were awestruck with his brain power, and when he was sixteen years old, he was experimenting with chemistry, his favorite subject. His parents had given him permission to set up a lab in their basement.
The situation around the globe was an absolute mess. Neighboring countries were at
war with each other and global warming was accelerating at an alarming rate. Tommy was appalled at the peril of the planet and vowed to take action. He experimented with different mixtures of chemicals. His objective was to create a device that would make a hydrogen bomb look like a firecracker.
But his invention was not to be a weapon of mass destruction. Rather it was a gas that would turn evil into good, expanding and spreading into the atmosphere with incredible speed. On his seventeenth birthday, he
created a formula that would revolutionize human behavior. This formula, when released into the atmosphere, would spread around the globe in just three days, and, when inhaled, would transform everyone into a peaceful state of mind, a love-thy-neighbor attitude.
One week after he celebrated his birthday, he was ready to put his formula to the test by inhaling a tiny amount, only one-tenth of a cubic centimeter, and the result was astounding. His mind was transformed into a state of euphoria, a mindset that
would benefit everyone within whom he had contact. He helped the elderly cross busy street intersections. He tutored classmates who were struggling with their courses, and he campaigned for the sharp reduction of fossil fuels.
Now he was ready. Two weeks after his birthday, with the help of his father, he dragged to his back yard a large cannister, larger than a forty-gallon hot water heater … and opened the valve. With a loud hissing sound, the gas was spreading at warp speed. In just a few hours, the gas from the container spread all
over North and South America. Would his invention work?
Tommy joined his parents in the family room to watch the news. There was nothing unusual reported. Tommy was saddened, so he decided to create another cannister, and spent most of the night getting ready to release his formula for the second time. Shortly after sunrise, father and son lugged the second round of the magic potion for immediate release, and by late afternoon, the gas had reached Europe and Asia.
Again, the Brainerds gave their undivided attention to the news. By noontime the global situation was status quo, but by the time the evening news rolled around, things began to change. Two middleeastern nations who’d been warring with each other for years declared a cease fire. Auto manufacturers around the globe announced plans to sharply increase production of electric vehicles. The crime rate in twenty of the largest cities on the planet dropped to near zero by the previous midnight. Tommy Brainerd’s extraordinary creation was working!
The miracle continued. Four days after Tommy’s release of his magical creation, the six nations with the most powerful military establishments announced plans for total disarmament, with the United States and Russia leading the way. Global warming was stopped in its tracks, and three months later, Mother Earth’s “fever” was cooling. The polar ice caps were expanding once again and polar bears were leaping with joy. Thanks, Tommy Brainerd, thanks for saving the third rock from the sun!
Tommy wasn’t contented with just one invention. His next endeavor would be colossal, monumental, and quite possibly, impossible. He’d be working on a device that would stop hurricanes, blizzards, and tornadoes in their tracks. Stay tuned!
I LIVE HERE TOO BECKY GIGNAC, HERONS GLEN
Hello, my name is Toro and I’m fairly new to the neighborhood. My momma (Lin Sutter) and I moved to a lovely house on Palo Duro Boulevard in May 2024. We drove all the way from Austin, Texas. My sister Randi is still in Austin with my grandmamma.
However, I have cousins Murphi and Maggie who live here too. I get extremely excited when they come for a visit. Hopefully, you will learn more about them in an upcoming story. For now … it’s all about me.
I’m 9 years old and a “Shihpoo,” which is a Shih tzu/poodle
mix. I’m a handsome fellow with my dark and light gray fur. Please do not take that wrong, I’m not stuck up by any means, but I do have a beautiful coat.
Momma found my breeders in the newspaper and learned I would be their last litter. When she came to visit, she fell in love with me right away. Lucky me, especially since I have a couple of health issues, but momma makes sure I get the medication I need and my doctor is pleased with my checkups.
I bet you are wondering how I got my name. It has nothing to do with bullfighting. My Momma’s oldest daughter named me after a guitar player in a band called “My Chemical Romance.” She must have liked that guitar player (maybe they had a chemical romance; hee-hee). The name Toro suits me fine.
I am still getting my “Glen” legs, so I’m shy at first. However, I do eventually warm up to people and other dogs I see daily. Momma walks me 2 to 3 times a day and I have a pretty set routine. In the morning, I turn left and go down Palo Duro and, in the evening, I turn right and go around to
“The Boulevard.” I can be a little stubborn at times; I’ll turn and go home when I’m ready.
I do enjoy seeing the wildlife here, especially the bunnies. However, I got into a yelling match with a couple of Sand Hill Cranes; it turned out okay, but boy were they cranky birds. I also get to see the golfers tee off on Hole 9. I am doing a decent job of not barking at them on their backswing. Momma says that would be most impolite.
We live here full time, and I love our house. I have lots of toys I get to scatter around, such as my hedgehog, bunny, monkey, but my favorite is a soft hamburger (it has to be soft; I’ve had 14 teeth pulled). In the evenings, I normally sleep with momma, but I’m starting to like the nice cool tile floor too.
If you see us out and about, don’t be shy. Stop and say hello; we love meeting people and receiving all the welcomes to the Glen!
HERONS GLEN BOWLING LEAGUE LEADERS THROUGH
3 OF 16 TEAMS
LOOKING FOR SOFTBALL PLAYERS KAREN JESSOP, HERONS GLEN
The Herons Glen Softball Team is looking for new players for the 2025 season. Hoping to add to the team with players who have some experience playing baseball or softball in the past. This is a very competitive “seniors” league and players must be a minimum of 50 years old on or before 12/31/24.
There will be 7 or 8 teams in the league this season and we are striving to improve on our second place finish from last year. Practice and games will be at the ball fields at Carmelita Park in Punta Gorda. There will be a couple of practices in December with times and dates TBD. Games are played on Monday and Wednesday at 5:30 and last about an hour with the season ending around the middle of March. The first game is on January 6. So, dust off your glove and join a great group of guys for fun. This is also an invitation to everyone, come out and cheer on your home team. Don’t forget to save those cans and place them in the trailer near golf course maintenance, this helps defray the cost of the fields and umpires.
If you’re interested in finding out more about the team, please contact Tom Spenceley, coach, via phone or text at (513) 377-5074 or via email at tomspenceley@hotmail.com.
Sports
LADY NINERS OPENING SEASON MEETING
DENISE JOHNSON, HERONS GLEN
The Lady Niners met for their opening monthly meeting/luncheon on Wednesday, November 13. The meeting began with a buffet lunch while Golf Pro Bruce Harris gave results of the morning’s game and answered specific golf questions from the membership.
President Val McCarter called the meeting to order. Topics of discussion were the Duke & Duchess Tournament (January 29), Pretty In Pink (PIP) tournament/fundraiser for Breast Cancer (March19, coordinated with 18-hole ladies’ golf league), future KISS events (beginning May through November 2025) and future invitationals. Members were invited to serve on committees to coordinate these major events. In addition, the Lady Niners will celebrate their 25th anniversary in March 2025. We are looking forward to a fun and exciting new year.
Officers for 2024/25: President Valerie McCarter, Vice President Susan Visner, retiring Treasurer Joyce Haist/new Treasurer Bonnie MacGregor, Secretary Lylette Macdonald, Historian/Publicity Denise Johnson, Website Becky Gignac, Sunshine Donna Johnson, Chip-ins and Birdies Terry Viau, KISS Events Carol Ross, and New Members Ellen Halleran/Diana Baker.
For information about our league, The Lady Niners’ website is at heronsglencc.com/group/pages/golfassociations . Ellen Halleran can also address any questions for new or potentially new members. Contact Ellen at eth2fl@yahoo.com or call (239) 567-4669.
1. December 31, 2000.
2. Torpedoes from a German U-Boat.
3. The Arctic.
4. Arizona and Utah.
5. George Washington, Ulysses S. Grant, and Dwight D. Eisenhower.
Trivia Answers
TRIVIA CORNER
Events
Sunday, December 15 @ 1 p.m.
Christmas Caroling Through the Glen Clubhouse
For more information call (631) 678-3787
Wednesday, December 18 @ 5 to 8 p.m.
Christmas Candlelight Dinner
The Nest
Entertainment by Tina Soloman
For more information call (239) 731-4545
Saturday, December 21 @ 6 to 9 p.m.
Christmas Karaoke Night
The Nest
Music provided by Don and Barb Vanover
Tuesday, December 31 @ 5 to 8 p.m.
New Year’s Eve Dinner
The Nest
For more information call (239) 731-4545
Tuesday, December 31 @ 8 p.m.
New Year’s Eve Party
Ballroom
Music provided by From the Edge
Wednesday, January 1, 2025
Bloody Mary Open Golf Tournament
8:15 a.m. Shotgun Brunch from 12 to 3 p.m.
Ballroom/Veranda
Watch for more information from the Pro Shop.
Sunday, January 26, 2025
Activities Fair @ 12 to 2 p.m.
Ballroom
Reserve a booth by Monday, December 16, 2024 susandgregor@gmail.com or call 203-858-8033
RESOURCE HUB
HERONS GLEN OFFICIAL SOURCES FOR INFORMATION
Herons Glen Golf and Country Club Website: http://hggcc.com
Herons Glen Homeowners Association Website: http://heronsglenhoa.org
Herons Glen Recreation District Website: https://heronsglencc.com
The Heron Online and Community TV Channels 901 and 902: https://hggcc.com/Wordpress/index.php/communications/
Calling On All Writers!
The Heron magazine has arrived and with it, new ways to share with the community! How would you like to be a part of The Heron’s growth? We are looking to expand community engagement. Do you write poetry? Do you want to share a great recipe? Do you have a special hobby? Do you have an
interesting family history, story, or event to share? Do you have gardening advice? We know all you “Gleners” out there are experts on something or have stories to tell! We would love to hear from you! Just contact us at HGNewspaper@gmail.com. We can even help you write up your information!
