Wow! No slackers here in the Glen. While showing up on Nov. 24, 2025 to cover the annual Herons Glen entrance decorations, I counted at least 20 people scurrying around placing decorations everywhere! It resembled a labor of love.
Paul Chipman was hanging over the entryway wall ensuring the garland was evenly strung so the Herons Glen crest was placed in the middle, while Walt Westfall gingerly climbed the extended ladder supported by Russel Long and others to make sure his miniature lights were evenly spaced. Susan Wasserott and Suzanne Offutt were padding down the netting lights mimicking how you knead dough with Joyce Forman standing behind and cheering them on. Glancing over to the Santa sleigh Mike Spurdutti was fixated on assembling Santa’s ride. Wife Patti Spurdutti was running down the lane asking person-in-charge Denise Fell where wreaths should be placed.
Rather than the HOA hiring outside light installers to put up our Holiday Wonderland, the HOA Activities Committee took on the task. What does it all entail? Lights are strung on palm trees and shrubs; garland is placed around the entrance walls; Santa with sleigh, snowman, Nativity scene, Menorah, and Joy are set up to greet residents and guests entering and exiting the Glen. It’s not just the Activities Committee that can take credit for this undertaking; it’s our community neighbors and family! They come out to participate and provide a smile, all because – this is our community. People whose past employment include postal workers, sales executives, bankers, and real estate agents work together! It’s a melting pot of giving volunteers!
To those who showed and volunteered their time, thank you! A slap on the back and a big shout-out to: Mike Brown, Paul Chipman and his son Renzi Chipman, Shelly Christiansen, Susan Darcy, Gail and Gary DaRos, Mike and Denise Fell, Joyce Forman, Russell Long, Suzanne Offutt, Mike Popp, Jeremiah Radle, Mike and Patti Sperduti, Bud and Patty Stuchly, Eric Sundberg, Jim Troicke, Gary Vivian, Susan Wasserott and Walt Westfall. Apologies if anyone was missed, you are appreciated.
The date each year is the Monday before Thanksgiving. Jot that down on your calendar for next year and consider being part of the team toward a wonderful community event. It’s so fulfilling especially when you see our lights shining on Highway 41 and then are greeted by Santa, a snowman and yes, the guard.
