ROYAL PALM FRONDS

March 2001 Table of Contents

ROYAL PALM FRONDS
by Betsy Bracey

You read in last month's Abaco Journal that Mort Kaplan was killed in an automobile accident in early January. Those of us who have been Mort and Kay's neighbours and friends for many years will miss him greatly and are deeply saddened by his loss. Life will not be the same without Mort's presence. He was president of the RPCA in the early years and helped to establish the policies under which we still live, policies which have stood the test of time. His contributions to RPCA were valuable and his time freely given to benefit all at Royal Palm as well as many members of our local community whom he flew to Fort Lauderdale when they suffered illness or injury. He was a gracious and generous gentleman and we extend our deepest sympathies to his wife of over 40 years, Kay, and to his sons, David and Danie to know that Kay will continue to spend her winters here at Royal Palm.

Sadly, another member of our community has passed away. Thomas Rathslag was an infrequent visitor but had been an owner for many years. We extend our sympathy to his surviving family members.

Many Royal Palm neighbours celebrated the birthday of Bill Firstbrook's mother, Ruth. Lorna and Bill hosted a lovely party and Ruth, who recently moved here from Mexico, was ushered into her 96th year with flair. Happy Birthday, Ruth Firstbrook!

We are sorry to learn that Woody and Nancy McKay have sold their condo but pleased to know that Stewart and Nancy Stripp have bought it and will remain Royal Palm residents. Woody and Nancy, we'll miss you. Congratulations Stripps!

Friday evening Deck parties have begun being hosted by owners who enjoy the gathering. This is not an exclusive event, rather a casual get-together for Royal palm residents and guests, as well as home owners and guests on the island who would like to join with us. Please bring whatever you wish to enjoy and come to The Deck on Friday evenings at six. You may call the Royal Palm office at 365-8777 to check on dates.

Many other owners are in residence: director Bill Draper and Kathleen, director Jerry Hill and BJ, Nan and George Gregory, MaryLou and Bill Nielsen, James and David Nielsen, Roger Hedge, Paola and Fabrizio Ghersel, Nan and Bud Camferdam, Salli and Bill Schiffmacher, James and Katherine McAllister, Jo Schneider (who are joined by daughter Vanessa and friend), and Linda and Buddy Gerald. Archie Dargan came for a brief stay and Jerry Freisinger just arrived to catch up on his fishing and diving time. recently departed are new owners Phillipa and Robert Harris, director Hagen and Peggy Peters, as well as Jack Tupper. I have just returned from an eventful week caring for four of my grandchildren in Newport Beach. At ages 9, 8, 5 and 3, they surely kept me active but I enjoyed them immensely and hope to see them with their folks, Celia and Eric Sutherland, here in August.

With the bulk of our Floyd reconstruction project complete, owners may look forward to enjoying their renovated condominiums and four sparkling swimming pools. The weather is heavenly and we've had water days as still as a pond. There is no reason to stay in the cold when Abaco offers the opportunity for such enjoyment and relaxation in addition to good company. Do remember to let Mrs Lowe or Mrs Roberts know of your arrival in case of an emergency. Come back soon!

March 2001 Table of Contents