Shell Point Life May 2015 by Shell Point Retirement Community

May 2015 Vol. 10 Issue 5

SAILING UP, UP & AWAY

RACING ACROSS THE WATER

ON THE WATERFRONT THE JOY OF NAUTICAL PURSUITS

She is clothed in strength and dignity; and she laughs without fear of the future.

The Meaning of Mothers and Memorials By Mary Kay Grimaldi On two days in May, we pay special honor to those we respect and treasure. The idea for Mother’s Day was conceived by Anna Jarvis in West Virginia in 1905, the year her beloved mother died. Anna’s mother was a peace activist who had cared for wounded soldiers on both sides of the Civil War and created Work Clubs to address public health issues. Anna wished to set aside a day to appreciate and honor all mothers, “the person who has done more for you than anyone in the world,” by writing a personal letter expressing love and gratitude. In 1914, Woodrow Wilson signed the proclamation creating Mother’s Day, the second Sunday in May, as a national holiday. It is now celebrated all over the world. Memorial Day also originated after the Civil War. Observed as a national holiday on the last Monday of May, many people visit cemeteries and memorials, placing a flag on each grave to honor those who died in military service. The red lapel remembrance poppy,

the

—P —Proverbs roverbs 31:25 31:25

inspired by the World War I poem “In Flanders Fields,” also has been used since 1921 by the American Legion to commemorate soldiers killed in that war. In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row. There are many ways to leave a legacy, and Jeff Cory describes some meaningful contributions at Shell Point (page 37). June marks the start of hurricane season, so plan to attend the meeting on May 28 to learn how to prepare if a storm heads this way; read more on pages 32-33. Boating is a deeply rooted lifestyle for some Shell Point residents; enjoy reading their varied approaches to finding adventure on the high seas (pages 4-19). A group of assisted living residents was delighted by their day on the water (page 29). If the summer months call you to distant shores, please travel safely…and remember to submit the “comings and goings” form (page 38) so we can monitor your home here while you’re away.

Cover

Ed and Sheila Thomson (Lucina) recall sailboat racing in San Francisco Bay

Shell Point Life is published monthly for the residents of Shell Point Retirement Community. Editor Mary Kay Grimaldi Director of Marketing & Comm. Rich Cerrina Senior Graphic Designer Wendy Iverson Graphic Designer Kathy Grove Contributors Heather Battey, Teri Kollath, Bev Chandley, Ginny Miller-Plaza, Melody Desilets, Inga Bredahl, Roy Nestor, Katelyn Van Scoy, Robyn Church, McKenzie Millis, Claude Emler, Jeff Cory, Janine Hammond, Linda Rakos, Dawn Boren, Dotty Morrison, Sarah Nadal, Steve Morton, Brad Blackburn, Linda Forcey, Cathy Miskell, Ann Erickson, Susan Uhleman, Peggy Zimmerman, and Marilyn Fowler Do you have story ideas or photos to share? Contact Mary Kay Grimaldi, editor, by calling (239) 454-2055 or emailing marykaygrimaldi@shellpoint.org Back Issues Available Online Is there an issue of Shell Point Life that you just have to have? Was your friend or family member in a recent issue but you lost it? You can find the current issue as well as back issues of the magazine at www.shellpoint.org/shellpointlife

15101 Shell Point Boulevard • Fort Myers, FL 33908 (239) 466-1131 • www.shellpoint.org Shell Point is a non-profit ministry of The Christian and Missionary Alliance Foundation, Inc.

aboard their 30-foot sloop Arriba. 2

Shell Point Life | May 2015

Shell Point

Summer Concert Series B

a w n

o r e n

d i r e c t o r

o f

e s i d e n t

f e

2015

Shell Point is pleased to announce the lineup for its 5th annual Summer Concert Series. During summertime in Florida, many local residents are searching for activities. Typically, things slow down and there aren’t as many entertainment options avail- CROSSROADS QUARTET able as there are “in season.” Saturday, June 13, 7:30 p.m DICK HYMAN – BIG BANDS & COMBOS That’s why the Shell Point Summer Concert Series has been either service desk at 454-2282 or Thursday, September 10, 7:30 p.m. so popular the last few years. Shell Point 454-2054; charges will be billed to your residents and members of the community Shell Point account. (No refunds or enjoy the diverse musical options at a exchanges. All artists subject to change, substitution, or rescheduling based on unforeseen great low price! Our goal is to make the Summer circumstances.) All concerts are held in the Village Concert Series affordable to all. We encourage you to secure your tickets early, Church Auditorium on The Island; genand invite a friend or neighbor to join you. eral seating only. The complete Summer Concert Series of four concerts is $60; individual tickets are $20 each. Ticket cost for bonus concert is $25 each. To purchase tickets, call

RIVER CITY BRASS ENSEMBLE– A PATRIOTIC TRIBUTE

SPECIAL BONUS CONCERT! SOUTHWEST FLORIDA CHAMBER SYMPHONY

Thursday, August 13, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, July 10, 7:30 p.m.

WOODWORKS

Tuesday, August 25, 7:30 p.m.

*SAVE

WHEN YOU BUY THE ENTIRE SERIES! Shell Point Life | May 2015

Ron Terciak is known as the safety guy and has a trusted reputation with the Shell Point boaters as someone who can help ensure your boating experience is as safe as possible.

Shell Point Life | May 2015

Navigating Waters the

Surrounding Shell Point

o some, a boat is just a hole in the water that you throw money into; they say their happiest days were when they bought it and when they sold it…or sunk it! True boaters call these people “landlubbers” who never found their sea legs, felt the power of the tides, or navigated to the call of a sailing wind. Imagine relaxing in the warm sun, being lulled into serenity by the motion of the waves; charting a course through waterways that display a panorama of nature’s beauty not seen from land or air; savoring the briny scents and salty drops that spray up with each dip into the sea. Whether sailing or motoring to lounge, fish, snorkel, or simply watch sea life and birds at sunrise or sunset, the Shell Point marina is home to some avid boaters who choose to cruise their way to tranquility each fine-weather day. Boating represents freedom to discover new worlds. But boating is more than a joyride. Safety is paramount, as weather conditions can change suddenly, nearby boaters may be reckless, and the boat itself may break down. In 2013, the U.S. Coast Guard reported 4,062 accidents that resulted in 560 deaths, 2,620 injuries, and more than $39 million in property damage as a result

of recreational boating accidents. Rather than relive his varied boat experiences, Shell Point Boat Club member Ron Terciak (Lucina) prefers to talk about, teach, and examine the safety features of boats. He recently returned from a volunteer vessel check requested by Dee Whited and Lee Moore (Junonia), owners of the catamaran About Time docked at Shell Point marina slips #128-144. “It was a quick process because they were prepared, experienced boaters,” Ron said. “I made sure their flares weren’t outdated; their navigation lights worked; verified the condition of their ‘PFDs’ (personal flotation devices); checked the battery, horn, and bell; and matched their registration to the numbers on the boat.” It would have taken longer if they had a bigger galley with all its equipment.

Safety on High Seas “Many people don’t realize that the Coast Guard or any law enforcement agency can stop and board a boat at any time; it’s not like a car where police need continued next page Shell Point Life | May 2015

NAVIGATING THE WATERS SURROUNDING SHELL POINT Continued from page 5

probable cause. So you have to be prepared,” Ron advised. “If you are charged for a violation, they may choose to fine you or escort you to the nearest marina, likely not your home port, where you remain docked until the problem is fixed.” Safety requirements include, among other things, approved, wearable life jackets on board for each person on the vessel; a throwable floatation device if the boat is longer than 16 feet; functional navigation lights, fire extinguisher, and distress signals (such as a whistle, horn, and flare). “Boating on a lake is much different than the sea,” said Ron. “In the Gulf, 12 inches of water can look the same as 12 feet deep. Polarized sunglasses can help you see what’s in the water, but if you’re watching your charts, you’ll know if you’re off course…and where you should be.” Ron recently scheduled an excursion with friends, traveling 75 miles for lunch near Marco Island. “You don’t have to have a big boat to go far around here,” he said, although with his “ABC” (America’s Boating Course) designation, Ron has advanced skills that allow him to navigate with a sextant by observing the stars. Most often, today’s boaters navigate by global positioning satellite (GPS), keep nautical chart plotters handy, and use depth

Ron Terciak (Lucina) is a fivetime Commander in the San Carlos Bay Power Squadron, a unit of the United States Power Squadrons, and a certified Vessel Safety Examiner. He is pictured here with some of the safety materials a boater is required to have onboard.

continued next page

Methods of the Ancient Mariner First implemented around 1730, a sextant is a doubly reflecting navigation instrument used to measure the angle between any two visible objects. The primary use of a sextant is to determine the angle between an astronomical object and the horizon for the purposes of celestial navigation. Sighting the sun at noon or Polaris at night (in the Northern Hemisphere) determines latitude. Measuring the lunar distance between the moon and another celestial object (such as a star or planet) can determine Greenwich Mean Time, and hence longitude. At sea, results within several nautical miles, well within visual range, are acceptable.

Shell Point Life | May 2015

(Top to bottom) Bob and Mil Anderson (Turban) return from a cruise in their 22-foot Hurricane pleasure boat in January 2013; Shell Point Boat Club traveled as a group to Rum Runners in January; Pontoons-a-plenty at Shell Point: Dave Lee (Lucina) is captain at the helm of this floating fun fête, with passengers (left to right) Bob Hommez (Harbor Court), John Eder (Lakewood), and first mate Margie Lee.

sounders to determine water depth. Technology is a friend to many boaters, Ron claimed, describing how “digital selective calling” works with a maritime mobile service registration. It’s tied into the GPS on a boat radio and recorded with the Coast Guard. They can dispatch a search boat directly to your location when a distress signal is sent. Ron recalled an incident in November 2014, returning from Tampa when his boat broke down in Charlotte Harbor; he had to call for a tow into Bokeelia. Luckily he had “SeaTow” membership, similar to AAA for boats. The trip that started at 10 a.m. didn’t end until 11 p.m. “You can’t anticipate what might happen on the water,” he said. “You might not plan to be out all day, but if something happens, you would need your running lights after dark.”

Tips and Tricks for Boaters

Docking can be particularly tricky, and knowing when the high and low tides are scheduled, the “draft” (depth of a ship’s keel below the waterline), and practicing how a particular vessel handles are critical. Operating a boat is nothing like driving a car; there are no brakes to make it just stop. Heavier boats will keep moving once in neutral, affected even more by wind and the current. A boat with twin engines can maneuver more easily when docking or turning, running one in reverse and the other in forward. Also, it’s important to make sure the crew onboard knows what they are supposed to do to assist… before the boat is actually in motion. Modern fiberglass boat building is sturdier, heavier than aluminum construction, and minimizes some of the maintenance required of more classic timber boat structures, which are prone to rot and corrosion from the harsh sunlight and temperatures of tropical climates. continued next page Shell Point Life | May 2015

NAVIGATING THE WATERS SURROUNDING SHELL POINT Continued from page 7

Nautical enthusiasts occasionally revel in a seemingly never-ending list of chores – neatly coiling lines, flushing engines, and even hosing bird droppings. It’s more than the joy of a job well done. Safety is signaled by the gleam of brass and chrome fittings and a well-polished teak deck glinting in the sun. Another task required for safe, relaxing, and entertaining boating is stocking the proper supplies aboard. In addition to the safety equipment required by law, navigation tools such as a GPS device or compass, waterway charts, radio and charged cell phones, anchor and ropes, flashlight and first aid kit are valuable. Water and crackers are basic refreshments to have on hand, helpful to prevent dehydration and ward off seasickness in rough waters.

Finding Safe Harbor

“I remember an incident about three years ago, coming back from Sarasota. A storm came up faster than we anticipated, and the waves were so big we couldn’t turn around,” Ron said. “We were in Charlotte Harbor and decided to put into Matlacha to be protected. Even though another boat in our group was just 100 feet ahead of us, we couldn’t see it. A normal 15-minute ride took us over an hour.”

Shell Point Life | May 2015

Captain Ron Terciak and his wife Carole recently gathered a flotilla to navigate the mangroves to Pincher’s Crab Shack in Fort Myers Beach, taking several Shell Point residents aboard their 23-foot boat, Irish Rover.

A resident of Shell Point for almost 10 years, Ron and his wife Carole were attracted by the free boat dockage at the marina on campus. Their 23-foot Grady White, called

Irish Rover, has a 225-horsepower outboard Yamaha engine and a Cuddy cabin that keeps things dry. “It’s an extremely wellmade boat and handles well in rough water,” Ron said. Ron recommends taking one of the monthly boating classes offered by the local San Carlos Bay Sail & Power Squadron. A boating safety certificate confirms the captain’s knowledge of boating etiquette and rules, safety, operation, navigation, and reading weather conditions. “You don’t know what you don’t know,” he said. “We teach everything from channel markers, to tides and sand bars.” For more boating advice, visit their website at www.SCBPS.com, or take online boating safety courses at the federal website: www.USPS.org. This organization was formed in 1914 to teach navigation to the U.S. Navy during both world wars.

LifeQuest: Emotional Dimension

Sharing Hope for Your Emotional Wellbeing B

e a t h e r

a t t e y

r e s o r t

s e r v i c e s

Health is a dynamic process – it is always changing. We all experience times of good health, times of sickness, and maybe even times of serious illness. As our lifestyle changes, so does our level of health. Those who participate in regular physical activity, do so partly to improve the current and future level of their health. We strive toward an optimal state of wellbeing and overall feeling of fulfillment and happiness. As our lifestyle improves, our health also improves, and we experience less “disease” physically and emotionally, leaving us more comfortable. When most people are asked what it means to be healthy, they normally respond with the four components of fitness: cardio ability, muscular ability, flexibility, and body composition. Although these components are a critical part of being healthy, they are not the only important contributing factors. The other key components of health are just as important as physical health, and include social health, mental health, spiritual health, and emotional health. Emotional health refers to your overall psychological condition and a positive sense of wellbeing. It includes the way you feel about yourself, the quality of your relationships, and your ability to manage your feelings and deal with difficulties. It can lead to success in work, relationships, and health, as well as increase healing and dealing with change, and help you to grow. In the past, researchers believed that success made people happy, but newer research reveals that it’s the other way around. Happy people are more likely to work toward goals, find the resources they need, and attract others with their energy and optimism.

Sharing Hope Shell Point offers several support and enrichment groups that can help with emotional wellness, which are coordinated by Resident Support Services Case Manager Janine Hammond. (For a list of these support groups and contact information, see page 28.)

a n d

w e ll n e s s

m a n a g e r

Resident Susan Moore (Lakewood) currently participates in the Parkinson’s Enrichment Group, which offers an opportunity for residents to share emotional support with others who have similar experiences. The group is about “sharing hope,” Susan said, “and from time to time, we all need to lean on someone.” Members of this group and others, such as the COPD support group, provide a warm environment to share information and encourage each other when times are especially challenging. “It helps just to be in the presence of others who understand what you are going through,” said Ken Peterson (Oakmont). “Who will understand you better than someone who has walked in your shoes? It’s nice to know that there are others who are willing to help.” Florence Putman (Eagles Preserve) has been part of the Vision Enrichment Group for more than six years. “I love the companionship you feel with others who are struggling with the same things,” she said.

“If they can do it, I can do it too.” Many speakers bring valuable information and success stories. “The Shell Point support groups are filled with dynamic positive people who are living life to its fullest,” said Janine.

What’s Your Quest?

LifeQuest Discussion Group Keep Your Life in Positive Balance Presented by Teri Kollath Sat., May 23, 10 a.m. • Grand Cypress Room/WDL People who are emotionally healthy are aware of their emotions and their behavior. They are able to handle life’s challenges, build strong relationships, and recover from both small and large setbacks. But just as it requires effort to build or maintain physical health, so it is with emotional health. Join Teri Kollath, The Academy and Auxiliary manager, as she shares her integrated approach to overall emotional wellness, through some tips on keeping your life in positive balance. Participants will look at where they are, and where they want to go through a brief and revealing exercise.

Shell Point Life | May 2015

Houseboat Man-Cave Redefines Concept of

John Eder spends quality time tinkering and tending to his beloved houseboat NoMo, moored at the Shell Point marina.

inety-two-year-old John Eder (rhymes with “Better”) (Lakewood) is a self-described bachelor who has the man-cave of his dreams. It’s a 34-foot, three-level houseboat called NoMo (short for “No More boats” chosen mostly because of his age, he admits), tied up at Shell Point marina slip #72. “I call her my ‘mistress’,” John said, but sadly his first mate Dorothy, wife of 73 years who he met in high school in Huntington, Long Island, passed away suddenly a couple years ago, after about a dozen years living together in retirement at Shell Point. “A boat this big, you really need two people to run it,” said John, “and we would go out in any kind of weather. It’s a nifty boat, and now it’s a place for me to be on the water… even if it’s tied to the dock.” Catering to this gentleman’s lifestyle, the NoMo is made of fiberglass and features wood paneling, a fully equipped galley (kitchen), and can sleep six. The upper level is the bridge, or control area, with a steering station and navigational electronics. The middle deck is an enclosed cabin with duplicate controls in a center console and “social” space; two deep chairs open to sleep additional guests. The bottom deck, below water level, holds a shower, toilet, and sink, as well as bunks to sleep four. From here, John can access the bow (front) with its mechanical instruments. John bought the 15-year-old NoMo previously owned by a “good mechanic” in Fort Myers. “She ages well and moves well,” he said, explaining that it originally had twin inboard engines, but was refitted with an outboard motor. “In our salty coastal environment, it’s easier to maintain. If you don’t use it frequently, the engine can seize up. This way I can just call and have the motor replaced.”

Stretching His Limits Living in Naples and Marco Island for almost 25 years, John was an elementary school teacher, earning a master’s degree

As a teacher, John covered a range from third, fourth, and fifth graders to military cadets. “When I said jump, they asked, ‘How high?’” said this captain of the NoMo houseboat.

from Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York. He lived on a houseboat for 12 months while building a multi-unit apartment complex on Harbor Drive in Naples. “I could cook and eat on the boat docked right there at the construction site; it was like a house for me and met all my needs,” John said. In his youth, John was a bombardier instructor for the U.S. Air Force, dropping munitions on practice targets over California, Texas, and New Mexico; he lived there and became familiar with the climate and typography of these areas. “As we grew older, we spent five years deciding where we would live out our retirement years,” John said. He traveled through Georgia and the western U.S., and finally settled here in Southwest Florida. “My mother-inlaw originally lived at Shell Point many years ago, and it has lived up to and

even surpassed my expectations.” A member of the Shell Point and national boating clubs, John also maintained his private pilot’s license and belonged to a flying club. With all this mechanical experience, John claimed his boating mentor is local club member Ron Terciak (see story on page 4). “He teaches me about local maritime laws and helps me focus the right attention on my boat,” John said. “When they send out email notices about meetings, Ron will let me know and take me along.” John is the first to admit that computers developed while he was teaching, and he only learned the rudiments. “A man’s got to know his limitations,” he joked, quoting Clint Eastwood as “Dirty” Harry Callahan in the movie Magnum Force. On his boat the NoMo, John can set his own limits. Shell Point Life | May 2015

Dock Maintenance and Preservation

Protected and Pleasing to the Eye Shell Point is taking a leadingedge and environmentally friendly approach to maintain and preserve its marina and docking facilities. “The tropical climate in Southwest Florida, with sun, saltwater, and storms, creates extremely harsh and corrosive conditions for our docks,” said Paul Yacovitch, director of Facilities Operations. “Accordingly, we’re taking proactive steps to preserve this key Shell Point asset.” Time, temperature, and tides will take a toll on any seaside facility. The concrete bulkhead, often used to stabilize waterfront properties, is pounded by waves from passing boat traffic and the tides; wooden structures, such as docks and pilings, are subjected to bio-deterioration from organisms, such as marine borers…not to mention the constant proliferation of barnacles that must be scraped off periodically.

For this reason, Shell Point contracts with Diversified Concepts, a company specializing in custom marine construction, maintenance, and preservation. Owner Steve Dameron starts by regularly assessing the condition of bulkheads, both above and below water level. The company installs underwater synthetic filtering devices that stop erosion behind the seawall. In addition, they treat the wood pilings with an epoxy 12

Shell Point Life | May 2015

Dock rehab workers from Diversified Concepts, including owner Steve Dameron (in wet suit), monitor for signs of deterioration at the Shell Point marina; (left) detail of damaged plank.

encapsulation above the water line in the “atmospheric zone” using a high-density polyethylene formula. “This can extend the dock’s use by decades – 70 to 80 years or more,” said Steve. “Preventative maintenance of our marine structures and continual assessment of their service life are essential before they become costly issues and

impact marina operations. We must be proactive to stay ahead of the challenges presented by the environment and use current, environmentally friendly materials and techniques to our advantage,” Paul said. “Maintaining and preserving what we have now ensures many more useful years of our marine facilities for our boating residents.”

Learn Lessons for Life

By Mary Kay Grimaldi Bill and Carolyn Bartholet (Turban) have grown both together and as individuals from their experiences living on and near the water. “Once you have lived on a boat, where you learn to rely only on yourself and each other for everything, it’s never the same being on land again,” said Bill. Carolyn agrees. “You can’t get away from each other in such close quarters. You learn to understand the meaning of the word ‘compromise’,” she said. This maturing, confidence- and character-building process was reinforced along “The Great Loop.” continued next page The 36-foot catamaran Someday Soon was home for Bill and Carolyn Bartholet during their 1999 voyage of The Great Loop, as they traveled through lots of locks and intra-coastal waterways.

Shell Point Life | May 2015

“LOOPERS” LEARN LESSONS FOR LIFE Continued from page 13

As Bill recalled stories of their waterway voyage, he pictured the route they took aboard Someday Soon, a 36-foot catamaran they bought in 1991. After seeing it at the Annapolis Sailboat Show, they fell in love and commissioned it to be built by PDQ Yachts in Whitby, Ontario, Canada. They later returned to this momentous spot as a special stop along their Great Loop trek. Boaters since the 1960s, they started with an 18-foot sailboat with no engines. “Then we jumped up to this with nothing in between!” Carolyn said. The Bartholets retired at age 55, and lived on the water as much as possible, sailing to the Bahamas, the Florida Keys, and through Biscayne Bay – returning often to Carolyn’s home town of Miami, where her grandfather had settled in the 1890s. Someday Soon had one mast and two sails (jib and main). With two outboard motors (10 horsepower each), it could travel at speeds up to 7 mph when motoring or 12 mph under sail. In addition to the cockpit and state rooms, it was equipped with solar panels, a wind generator, and a hand-started gas generator. These supported a full galley with refrigerator and

Shell Point Life | May 2015

Documenting this momentous journey, Bill and Carolyn Bartholet created scrapbooks of their nine-month sailing trip. The pages contain photos of the friends they met and the many adventures they had along the loop. They also included booklets, brochures, and other memorabilia of locks and canal systems they navigated and sight-seeing side trips, including a car show they attended in Ontario, Canada.

freezer large enough to store six meals and ice cubes! There was a roomy “head” (bathroom) with wet locker. They took along their favorite books and music, Bill’s guitar, and their folding bicycles. Bill had been a systems analyst with Con Edison in New York City, and Carolyn was an occupational therapist in private practice. Working and living together within the confines of a floating home only 18 feet wide, they counted on these technical, mechanical, and medical skills to find ways to travel thousands of nautical miles safely on their own.

Launching the Adventure

Their Great Loop Trip started in March 1999 – right in Shell Point’s “back yard,” known to boaters as green route marker #101. They headed east through Lake Okeechobee, then up the intracoastal waterways (ICW) along the eastern coast of the United States. With land always in sight on this first leg, they meandered along the 5 mph no-wake zones of the

ICW, observing a wide range of scenery – unoccupied mansions, then quiet, green expanses with flourishing wildlife – with a tasty seafood restaurant available at almost every turn. “The boat was like our own private island, with austerity and nature all around us,” said Carolyn. Bill described how they navigated by sight from marker to marker, but were surprised that much of the Florida coast is a “no man’s land.” Along the way, they preferred to anchor overnight rather than to pull up to a marina. They enjoyed the marshes of the Georgia low country where they had to strain to see any sign of life. They Green route reconnected with marker #101. the area around their one-time home in Oriental, North Carolina, thanking the friends who had loaned their Great Loop navigation charts, and enjoying stories shared with fellow sailors, some

Above: This postcard, along Erie Canal, documents the mule-drawn barges from 1825 used to transport lumber, coal, and hay in Buffalo, New York. Left: George Washington Bridge

of whom had circumnavigated the globe. Eventually, of course, they reached the nautical version of the sprawling New York metropolitan area’s hustle and bustle. This was Bill’s “hometown.” “After passing Cape May, New Jersey, we crossed open waters to reach New York Harbor,” Bill said. “It was a dramatic moment for me going under the George Washington Bridge, since I had spent so many years looking at it from above and traveling over it. Seeing the Statue of Liberty from the water reminded us that is how we got here. My father came in via Ellis Island in the 1920s.”

Maritime Rush Hour

Their 36-foot sailboat was dwarfed in this massive mecca of marine commerce, sharing the waterways with huge cruise ships and freighters. “It was even more overwhelming when we were beside the big warships docked at the U.S. Naval base in Norfolk,” Carolyn claimed. They first noticed the “big hills” of the Catskill Mountains in upstate New York when sailing up the Hudson River. At this point, Bill determined it was important to lower the mast and continue under motor power. “We eventually had to keep the mast down from just below Albany all the way to Mobile,” he explained. “It wasn’t a wind

or traffic issue; there were just too many bridges and narrow channels. For sailing, you want open water.” When describing their route along the Erie Canal, they both broke into song, “I’ve got a mule, and her name is Sal, fifteen miles on the Erie Canal,” recalling the mule-drawn barges from 1825 used to transport lumber, coal, and hay, and responsible for transforming the “Empire State.” “You feel a part of history when you’re on this canal,” Bill said, describing these engineering marvels – “bathtub” locks placed side by side that raised and lowered continued next page

Shell Point Life | May 2015

“LOOPERS” LEARN LESSONS FOR LIFE Continued from page 15

their boat 85 feet or more, and other locks designed with belts on rollers that moved the boats up the canal like railroad cars. Across Lake Ontario, they continued up through the canal system into Georgian Bay and the North Channel, timing it for July, when the water is just warm enough for swimming. “This man always brings good weather,” Carolyn said of her husband. “We had temperatures between 75 and 85 degrees, and only three days of rain in two years on the boat…of course, we always kept moving!”

Point of No Return Rounding the Mackinac Straits and starting to head back south on the Great Loop into Lake Michigan, they enjoyed a bike ride on the famous Mackinac Island, known for its Grand Hotel, horse-drawn carriages, and fudge. “We used our folding bicycles there…and everywhere, riding from docks to stores,” Carolyn explained. “Loading these bikes into and out of a small dinghy is a real feat.” When they reached Chicago, Bill motored under the State Street Bridge, one of many they “ducked under” there, and

Shell Point Life | May 2015

found a dock so they could get to Daley Plaza to see the famous Picasso sculpture. “I enjoy art, and he was one of my favorites,” said Bill. Further along the Illinois River, they passed through even larger locks designed for heavy commercial barge traffic. “We had to wait two to three hours for our turn,” said Carolyn, who enjoyed listening to the captains’ tales on the VHF radio. Bill claimed you didn’t have to go far on the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal (also known as the Drainage Canal) to see the industrial waste and treated sewage flowing – a huge contrast to the scenic beauty they had been enjoying for many months. Through the Ohio River tributary, then along 216 miles of the Mississippi River, they passed one particularly massive floating structure – 35 barges tied together being pushed by three tugboats. The captain of each tug was responsible for coordinating the two 2,000 horsepower engines needed to propel his “tow” of coal, rock, and sand upstream. “The waves behind this were enormous,” said Carolyn. They enjoyed another barge flotilla, a self-contained floating RV campground, with a cookout in progress. Near the Demopolis Marina in Alabama, they were treated to a surprising sunset serenade. “One tug at our dock had a widow’s walk perched on its top like a wedding cake,” Bill explained. “The captain was playing

Amazing Grace on his bagpipes. It was so incongruous, but so right; it brought tears to our eyes.”

End in Sight They traveled through the Cumberland Canal near Paducah, Kentucky, to Mobile, where their mast was finally raised once again. Into the “western ICW” then to Apalachicola and out into the Gulf of Mexico, they sailed the remaining 170-mile overnight trek in open water to Tarpon Springs. “As soon as we arrived, we found a dock then collapsed for some much-needed sleep,” Bill said. They then meandered down the intracoastal waterway back to their starting point, where the western ICW meets the Okeechobee Waterway, in sight of Shell Point. “The rest is history; it changed our lives. Along the trip, there were millions of little moments that make you glad to be alive,” said Carolyn. “At any time, we might see almost anything, or anyone, speaking any language. You make a lot of friends on a boat; some we have kept in touch with a long time.” Bill labels living on a boat a “great equalizer,” with everyone changing their own oil or sharing a fish caught on the line and cleaned as a gift. There is a bond, a trust among boaters. “At an anchorage with

Who Are The Great Loopers? (Source: Wikipedia)

many boats, you could announce on the VHF radio that you had a problem, and you would have at least five dinghies on the way to help in minutes,” he said. Life on the water was never boring, they agree. They comfortably relied on each other, one picking up skills the other already had – just in case, in an emergency, they were needed. “You could be just a few miles from shore and still Bill and Carolyn Bartholet sold their live-aboard not see it. These catamaran in 2011 when they realized they were no experiences taught longer putting the sail up. “We now have a ‘water taxi’ you to be totally pontoon called Slow Dance,” said Bill. independent,” Bill said. “The confidence we gained by Southwest Florida with a large group facing the challenges of fixing any potenof boating friends anchored off Marco tial problem enriched us and our lives.” Island to watch the sunset and ring in Thus ended their millennial the year 2000. year loop, celebrating their return to

The circumnavigation of Eastern North America by water is known as The Great Loop. The trip varies from 5,000 to 7,500 miles, traveling through 25 states, depending on the route taken. The trip can take six months, a year, or longer. The boats used range from personal watercraft (jet-skis) to 60-foot yachts. Both sailboats and powerboats are used, but the main factors that govern the size of the boat are the limited draft (five feet in some locations) and the height of one bridge (only 19 feet, located in Chicago). People traveling The Great Loop are known as “loopers,” and the number of people attempting this voyage, more than 150 per season, is growing as baby boomers reach retirement age. Some loopers retire, sell everything, and live on their boats; others loop every year, with the record being nine complete Great Loops (as of 2007). Most Great Loop cruisers travel counterclockwise, taking advantage of the downstream currents on the rivers, and safety during the 30-mile stretch of open Atlantic Ocean heading into New York Harbor. To avoid summer hurricanes and winter ice, most loopers head north in the spring, spend the summer in the Great Lakes region, and head south on the rivers in the fall, arriving in Florida before December. Looper reunions and networking are designed to allow for sharing of stories and tips, as well as general lessons on safety, vessel checks, and other valuable cruising information and local advice. Boaters can broadcast requests for anything from docking, anchorage, water depth, hazards, repairs, and fuel prices, to dinner reservations.

Shell Point Life | May 2015

Ed and Sheila Thomson aboard Arriba

Sailing Up, Up, and Away By Mary Kay Grimaldi

Shell Point Life | May 2015

Arriba! It means “up, up, and away,” according to Lucina resident Ed Thomson, and it’s the name of his 30-foot sloop. Arriba came to Shell Point with Ed and his wife Sheila in April 2014. “Sailing is fun,” said Ed, who learned to sail in a sailing canoe on Georgian Bay of Lake Huron when he was six. He sailed on a lot of different boats, and started to race in the ocean off San Francisco in 1964 in a Cal20. He graduated to Arriba in 1970, racing and cruising actively on the west coast, including ocean races as far as Ensenada in Baja California, Mexico. “Arriba is a nice boat to sail,” Ed said. “In extreme winds, she has planed with an average speed of 15 knots for more than 20 miles. When that has happened, there has been a big rooster tail off the stern, but the boat handles easily.” That was one of his more memorable experiences in seven decades on the water. San Francisco Bay and the offshore area are perfect for sailboat racing; Northern California around Point Reyes is one of the windiest in North America. The average depth of San Francisco Bay is about 100 feet, going down to 350 feet under the Golden Gate Bridge. Heading west beyond the Farallon Islands, Ed explained that boaters pass the continental shelf, and the depth drops off “like a cliff” to more than 4,000 feet.

Western Florida Comparison

Contrast that with the relatively calmer winds of the Gulf waterways, replete with sand bars that pop up unexpectedly and the mangrove-dotted coastline with meandering estuaries that are popular with boaters, fishermen, and kayakers alike. There are, however, deeper waters in the Gulf of Mexico fit for sailing. “Here in Florida, I’m learning my way along shore, where the channels are…and aren’t. It’s nice to head out, especially if there are congenial people on board.” Before retirement, Ed and Sheila lived in Tiburon, California, in northern Marin County. Ed, Sheila, and their son Patrick cruised on Arriba around San Francisco Bay and its delta. Sheila was exceptionally good

The Thomson’s son Patrick, skippering at the age of 17 with a crew of adults, competed against a large fleet of sail boats, some quite bigger and all skippered by experienced adult sailors; he won this race.

at arranging excellent food for these boat trips, which made for a happy crew. Ed has been a member of the San Francisco Yacht Club since the mid-1960s; he became Commodore in 1992 and is now an honorary lifetime member. Thinking about a long-term plan, they decided it was time to pay a long-awaited visit to Ed’s cousin at Shell Point, Nip Wilson (Nautilus). “We liked that it was right on the water,” Ed said. “Shell Point appealed to us because of so many active and involved residents living here.” The move to Shell Point was enhanced by Ed’s enthusiasm for sailing and the ability to have Arriba here in the marina.

Racing Memories

Most races that Ed participated in were held on a single day, although some longer courses could last five days, with a four- to five-person crew on duty non-stop day and night. “In a race to Ensenada,” Ed recalled, “we were finishing just about midnight on the fifth day. We were way ahead but the wind dropped; the Ensenada Bay was a glassy calm. Two boats caught up with us, and we were fighting for every inch we could get.” Each member of the crew has assigned duties that rotate in shifts, he explained. “Studies prove that after one hour of steer-

ing, concentration fails, so we switch that role often. Some crew will be assigned to keep watch, others to trim the sails,” said Ed. “You need at least a helmsman and two others to be efficient. Some boats have bigger crews to sit on the weather rail to provide weight to hold the boat down when the sails are full of wind. Arriba does well with a small crew. Sheila was an active crew member.” Arriba is a relatively light boat, weighing about 7,500 pounds. Its hull shape has a wider beam of about 10’6”, which means a flatter bottom that helps it stay upright. “The challenge in racing is to play strategically with the wind and the capability of your boat,” said Ed. “But there are tradeoffs. If weight or shape is different, you’ll pay for it in another way.” The interior of Arriba has berths for seven, though it has never slept that many during a race. “She has a full galley and even a fireplace, which is nice on cold evenings near San Francisco, but probably won’t be used here,” Ed said. “It would have been wonderful to sail to Shell Point from California through the Panama Canal, but we didn’t have the three to four months it would take,” said Ed. “In the end, it was easier to truck Arriba to her new home in Florida.” She is now settled in at Shell Point marina, slips #30-34. Shell Point Life | May 2015

From Ancient Times to Modern Day

Discoveries Around Our World and In Your Own Home B

e r i

o ll a t h

, M

a n a g e r

o f

t h e

COFFEE WITH A NEIGHBOR On Monday, May 18, we spend time with Al Slickers, director of Shell Point Hospitality Services, as he shares with us his Many Years of Food at the helm of all the Shell Point dining venues.

FOR THE LOVE OF LEARNING

The Anatomy of Words group meets every Monday morning (beginning May 4) to discuss the amazing and sometimes perplexing English language. They welcome all who share this interest, and who just might have a unique word of their own to share. Herb Sklar (Eagles Preserve) introduces a new photography workshop by sharing more than 100 photos taken with

Shell Point Life | May 2015

u x i l i a r y

a n d

h e

c a d e m y

o f

i f e l o n g

e a r n i n g

require a lot of supplies. Join her all four Wednesdays in May for Experience Color Pencil Painting. Pat Smelkoff returns to Shell Point for another all-day Saturday workshop Batik Project on May 9. Not only do they exemplify their topic, The Art of Aging Joyfully on Monday, May 11, but Eagles Preserve presenters Sandy Ehlers and Sheila Sklar have a lot of creativity, experience, and knowledge to share from long careers in psychology (Sklar) and art/writing (Ehlers). Professor Kerr brings us his latest class, Iran: Its History and Today. Taking us from settlements that date back to 4000 B.C. through the fall of the Shah Join Professor Adrian Kerr on Tuesday, May 12 and and the hostage crisis that fol19, for his latest class, Iran: Its History and Today. lowed in 1979 to current-day Learn about the regions’ earliest civilations and walk Iran, Professor Kerr will share through the ages to a discussion of current events. the history of one of the world’s oldest continuous major civilizations. Session one takes place a phone in his lecture The Aesthetics of on Tuesday, May 12, and Session two on Phone Photography on Monday, May 4. Tuesday, May 19. Angel Duncan, M.A.MFT, direcTwo Phone Photography Workshops will follow on Tuesdays, May 5 and 12, and May tor of Education/Clinician at the Neuropsychiatric Research Center of 19 and 26. Professor Adrian Kerr’s popular history Southwest Florida, brings us a fascinating classes take us to Stonehenge on Tuesday, introduction to the growing field of art therMay 5. Beginning with the period 10,000 apy in her presentation on Thursday, May years ago, he will discuss the importance of 14, Psychological Implications of Art on the Aging Brain. this burial location in Southern England. Dotty Morrison (Cellana) will once Learn how to create, save, and reproduce your designs, turning a flat piece of again teach Lightroom for Beginners, a paper into a 3-D object, with June Lockhart popular photo-editing system for computers (Harbor Court) in her class Paper Sculpture on two Thursdays, May 21 and 28. We all grew up hearing the wonderon all four Wednesdays in May. Karen Hubbard (Lakewood) will once ful tale of Helen of Troy and the epic poem again teach the techniques of a popular written by Homer about the Trojan War. and growing art medium that is portable, Professor Kerr elaborates as only he can in his relaxing, non-toxic, fun, and does not course on Tuesday, May 26, Helen of Troy:

The Face that Launched 1,000 Ships. On Tuesday, May 26, we welcome back Carol Clark, Ed.D., Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner at Shell Point Medical Center; Nancy Spencer, Psy.D., Clinical Psychologist for Shell Point Behavioral Health; and Sue Stranahan, RN, Dr.PH, director of Shell Point Spiritual Services, for a holistic look at the challenging aspects of moving through the seasons of life, as they present Letting Go on Tuesday, May 26. McKenzie Millis, Healthcare Marketing Specialist, has organized Virtual Dementia Tours (walking in the shoes of someone with dementia) on Thursday, May 28, to give us a better understanding of this disease that 5.3 million Americans face.

LEGACY SEMINAR

Join Gail Neuharth, Senior Wealth Advisor, and Betsy Alderman, Wealth Strategist, for Northern Trust on Wednesday, May 20, for What Now? This is good advice to prepare for what happens when your loved one passes away.

ACADEMY ON THE GO

Discover the Center for Great Apes on Monday, May 4, created for chimpanzees and orangutans that have been rescued. They are happy now, so come with us to Wauchula, Florida, and celebrate their good fortune with them.

Join Eagles Preserve presenters Sandy Ehlers and Sheila Sklar for The Art of Aging Joyfully on Monday, May 11.

support each other on the path to making the most of the technology available to us. Penny Modrich (Nautilus) brings several knowledgeable and generous resident assistants with her to the iPad, iPhone Walk-In Clinic held every Tuesday morning this semester beginning May 5. It’s an excellent weekly opportunity to bring your own questions to these people who want to help!

COMPUTER COLLEGE

Richard Nelson (Lakewood) has been introducing Shell Point residents to the computer for more than 10 years. If you want to give it a try (or a re-try), this is the T3 – TECHNOLOGY for you – Basics Prep School, on all TODAY & TOMORROW class four Wednesdays in May. If you would like to join more than 250 Which Technology Is Right for Me? held on Tuesday, May 5, brings residents million internet users, Russ Kraay (Oakmont) with knowledge of the various technolo- offers a course Fun on the Internet on two Wednesdays, May 13 and 20. gies together to compare and If you have purchased a contrast features and determine new computer, Jim Plummer the direction you want to go. (Parkwood) will help you Larry Brock (Eagles Preserve), become more familiar with the Bruce Findley (Sundial), Bob new operating system during his Jakubiac (Lucina), Russ Kraay class Windows 8.1: Coaching (Oakmont), Penny Modrich in Fundamentals on three (Nautilus), and Jim Plummer Thursdays beginning May 7. (Parkwood) will each give a Which Technology Is Right for Me? Find out Russ Kraay (Oakmont) brief presentation. You will hear on Tuesday, May 5, offers a fundamentals course about PCs, MACs, Androids, when experienced techand Apple iPad, iPhone, iPod savvy residents explain Making Word Work for You on all four Mondays in May. technology. You will also hear the pros and cons of various equipment. Would you like to get your about the other ways residents

computer files organized? Join Al Kaplan (Oakmont) on two Tuesdays, May 19 and 26, for his course Organize Your Files and Start Shredding. Only someone who has been instrumental in the development of the personal computer and the internet can bring the depth of knowledge necessary to simplify the computer for you. Paul Neighbors (Rosemont) is just the man. Join him for Understanding Your Computer on three Tuesdays, May 5, 12, and 19. Floyd Jamison (Parkwood) offers So You’ve Got Windows 8 – Now What Are You Going to Do with It? on two Wednesdays, May 6 and 13. Join him to increase your skills and answer your questions. Writing Your Memoirs on the Computer is offered nearly every semester by two generous and knowledgeable residents who want to make sure everyone gets the skills and support they need to capture the highlights of their lives. Join Lakewood residents Lucille Peterson and Marty Gibson on five Tuesdays beginning May 5.

STAY TUNED

Please see The Academy of Lifelong Learning brochure for complete information, including fees, pre-requisites, times, and places. Each course is confirmed in the Weekly Reminder, and you will hear about any last-minute changes on SPTV and the resident website, www.shellpoint.net.

Shell Point Life | May 2015

The Health Connection

www.shellpoint.net/healthconnection

Dynamic Activities, Programs, and Presentations Leave You Feeling Super! B

e a t h e r

a t t e y

r e s o r t

s e r v i c e s

Wellness Specialty Classes

Our Shell Point fitness professionals enjoy guiding and motivating you to improve your overall level of health and wellness. In May, you can mix and match your workouts by trying dynamic and fun fitness classes, and even incorporate some specialized, one-on-one personal training. For instance, try Pilates Stretch on Mondays and Wednesdays at 3 p.m. at the Island Health Club, and combine it with a Fitness Room Orientation on Tuesdays at 1 p.m. to learn how to effectively use all the equipment offered at the Shell Point health clubs. If both land and water workouts are what you prefer, try Bend, Breathe, and Balance on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:15 a.m. at the Island Health Club, and get your feet wet at Aqua Agility and Conditioning on Mondays and Wednesdays at 3:30 p.m. for a full week of full-body workouts. We will also continue Aqua-Pilates Stretch on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 1:30 p.m. at the LifeQuest Aquatic Center, and Advanced Senior Strength will begin a new session on Monday, May 27, at 12:45 p.m. at the Island Health Club. For this advanced class, please Try a low-impact contact Fitness Coordinator water fitness class like Aqua Agility and Craig Norling at 691-3764. Conditioning on Mon- This advanced class will days and Wednesdays teach proper strength trainat 3:30 p.m. ing techniques through the use of resistance machines, free weight, and body exercises.

Shell Point as Your Resource

Do you feel yourself hunching forward

Shell Point Life | May 2015

a n d

w e ll n e s s

m a n a g e r

or slouching in your chair? Well, Lindy Smith will be here to present the perfect class for you. Posture ranks at the top of the list when talking about good health. It’s as important as eating right, exercising, getting a good night’s sleep, and cognitive health. Good posture is a way of doing things with more energy, and less stress and fatigue. This one-time class Posture is the Answer: What is the Question? will take place on Saturday, May 23, at 9:30 a.m. in the Osprey Room. Cost is $8, and it’s certain to be a lot of fun and educationally interactive. Integrative health coach Maria Roelle will be back at Shell Point to educate you about Super-Foods and their Healing Properties on Wednesday, May 27, at 10 a.m. in the Grand Cypress Room. Come to this “super” informative presentation, and open the door to new food options and ideas to help improve your overall health.

Your Medical Community “Step WiseLee” is a program presented by Educator Mark Tesoro in conjunction with Lee Memorial Health System that saves lives through fall prevention. Mark works in trauma surgeons’ offices, analyzing trends in emergency rooms to develop programs that reduce falls and injuries throughout the county. Falls are the leading cause of injury and death in Lee County alone, even surpassing motor vehicle crashes in the older population. Preventing falls goes far beyond just strength and balance. There are many other factors that contribute to the high amount of trips and falls. Come to this useful presentation on Thursday, May 7, at 10:15 a.m. in the Social Center on the Island to learn what you can do to prevent falls. Another important presentation called Therapy Continuum – Minimizing the Risk of Return to the Hospital takes place

Maria Roelle presents Super-Foods and their Healing Properties on May 27.

on Wednesday, May 13, at 10:30 a.m. in the Oak Room with Program Director of Outpatient and Inpatient Therapy Services Christine “CJ” Gulotta. There are many stages in the rehabilitation process that can help minimize the risk of re-hospitalization and health decline. By following this three-part continuum, you can minimize your risk of illness and returning to the hospital in an untimely manner. At Shell Point, we offer this continuum to assist in a healthy journey. Inpatient skilled therapy, home health services, and outpatient therapy are all important components in completing CJ Gulotta, director of rehab. CJ will be pre- rehabilitation therapy, presents Therapy Consenting with Darren tinuum – Minimizing Long, area director of the Risk of Return to the operations for Senior Hospital on May 13. Home Care, about the benefits of using this continuum and answer questions about understanding this process. Their goal is to help residents stay healthy and safe, and minimize frequent trips to the hospital.

Art Show & Sale Sparks Creative Conversations B

e l o d y

e s i l e t s

, V

o l u n t e e r

o o r d i n a t o r

Above: Terry Halatek (Lucina) holds a note card purchased from artist Marilynn Fowler (Turban). Below: Holly B. English (Cellana) and Lois Sullinger (Cameo) display samples of their art.

Kathy McCallum (Tellidora) and Roger Ambrose (Junonia)

Ron and Gail Schongar (Lucina) along The exciting twist to this year’s annual Art Show and Sale proved to be a with grandson, Keith, attended the show great success, with more than 750 guests perus- on both March 20 and 21, and thoroughly ing and purchasing artwork directly from the enjoyed the selections. Being a random winner of a “Lucky Bucks” gift certificate also talented artists who created the pieces. made the experience more special This two-day event held for Keith. “When I won the gift in March at the Woodlands certificate, I realized that I had Commons showcased original the difficult task of picking which paintings, pottery, photograpiece of artwork I was going to phy, woodwork, stained glass, purchase,” he said. “Ultimately, I jewelry, and collage. decided on some pottery designed Floyd Fought (Sundial), a by artist Marilyn Schmidt, and I wood turner who participated Floyd Fought (Sundial) am so pleased with my purchase – in the show, was impressed with with Stacey Geisler of the outcome. “I had a great time FineMark National Bank a gift for my girlfriend.” With guests traveling from interacting with the guests who and her daughter. many states in the U.S. as well stopped to admire my work,” he said. “I was able to explain the inspiration as Canada, it was evident that the talent we and the process of creating my art, and when have in our community is quite a draw. If you they purchased an item, I felt they had a per- were unable to attend this year’s Art Show sonal story to go along with their piece. I was and Sale, be sure to visit the Island Gift Shop also able to negotiate my own prices, which where a few of our resident artists sell their made for some fun interactions with those works. Beginning May 1, the Gift Shop hours who were looking for something unique at are Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. a great price!”

Left: Bob Dornburg (Oakmont) with a guest who purchased one of his handmade Lazy Susans.

Right: Linda and Hans Friedebach (Lucina) display handmade dog leash holders.

Above: Roger and Kate Ruth (Turban) with handmade polished animals in the shapes of dolphins, turtles, and alligators. Shell Point Life | May 2015

www.shellpoint.net/events To include a listing for an upcoming event or activity, please contact Heather Battey, Resort Services and Wellness manager, at 454-2152, or email: heatherbattey@shellpoint.org

Friday Market Place

Friday, May 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29 8:30-11:30 a.m. 8, 15, 22, 29 Administration Courtyard/IS

Join us for the weekly market in the courtyard. Our friendly vendors will gladly help you find what you’re looking for, whether it’s fresh local produce, handmade baskets, local honey, homemade bread, or even a gift of jewelry for that special someone.

WWII: A Survivor’s Story

Wednesday, May 6 2:15 p.m. Social Center/IS WWII: A Survivor’s Story shares the causes, incidents, and results of the war through stories and song. Gary Vidito portrays his father, J. Marcus Vidito, who was aboard the USS Susan B. Anthony off the coast of North Africa, Sicily, and Normandy. There for the D-Day invasion with 2,500 men on board, the USS Susan B. Anthony struck two mines and went 24

Shell Point Life | May 2015

down. Hear the harrowing story of courage, survival, and determination of the “Greatest Generation” that defended the freedoms we enjoy today.

Photo Club Meeting

Thursday, May 7 2:15 p.m. Social Center/IS All are welcome to attend the monthly meeting of the Shell Point Photo Club; 2015 Best of Show: Two for Tea by Phyllis Ingalls

Events

•

Programs • Parties • Movies • Outings • Excursions

Singles Ice Cream Social

club membership is not required. We will review the Photo Contest and Show, featuring all exhibitors, with discussion of the winning photos by the judge via DVD. Come and learn about other upcoming opportunities.

Mother’s Tea & Vintage Fashion Show

Friday, May 8 2:30 p.m. Grand Cypress Room/WDL Cost: $5 per person To celebrate Mother’s Day, join us for an elegant fashion show featuring beautiful vintage dresses dating back to the 1800s. An assortment of tea and refreshments will be served as we honor our special guests. Daughters are welcome to join in the celebration with their mothers.

Saturday DVD: Hidalgo (2004)

Saturday, May 9 2:00 & 7:00 p.m. Grand Cypress Room/WDL Based on a true story, this movie follows Frank Hopkins (Viggo Mortensen) and his mustang, Hidalgo. As underdogs, they challenge the finest Arabian horses and their riders in a 3,000 mile race across the Arabian Desert’s punishing terrain. Hopkins and Hidalgo must thwart the evil plots of competitors who vow to be victorious at any cost. This film is a story of personal triumph, filled with unforgettable characters, making it one of the most thrilling adventures ever.

Beach Day

Monday, May 11 8:30 a.m. Island 8:40 a.m. Woodlands 8:50 a.m. Eagles Preserve/EST 3:00 p.m. approximate return Cost: $16 (ice cream on your own) A favorite outing for many residents, beach day gets us out in the sun, sand, and surf. The group will head to Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park in Naples for fun, food, and friendship. A picnic lunch will be served, and a traditional stop for ice cream will be included on the trip back to Shell Point.

Calusa Heritage Trail Presentation

Wednesday, May 13 2:15 p.m. Social Center/IS Please join us for a delightfully fun social event for all singles at Shell Point. Make your own ice cream sundae while making new friendships along the way. There will also be a brief discussion about a future singles group activity.

“Gods and Heroes – Masterpieces from Paris” Exhibit and Tour at the Baker Museum

Friday, May 15 8:15 a.m. Island 8:25 a.m. Woodlands 8:35 a.m. Eagles Preserve/EST 2:30 p.m. approximate return Cost: $37 (luncheon included)

Tuesday, May 12 1:15 p.m. Social Center/IS Cindy Bear, coordinator of programs and services for the Randell Research Center (RRC) and Calusa Heritage Trail, will give a presentation on archaeology and the Calusa. RRC is a program of the Florida Museum of Natural History, which has conducted research and education programs in Southwest Florida since 1983. Don’t miss this fascinating talk about Florida’s history.

Baker Museum Director Frank Vanpoorton claims that the “Gods and Heroes” exhibit is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and the most important show to ever grace Naples’ Baker Museum. The exhibit features 150 masterpieces (paintings, drawings, and sculptures) that rarely leave France. Masterpiece after masterpiece are displayed in this exhibit that no art lover should miss. Luncheon will be served following the docent-led tour, with free time if possible. Shell Point Life | May 2015

Happenings

Places

to go,

Saturday Shopping at Venetian Bay Saturday, May 16 9:15 a.m. Island 9:25 a.m. Woodlands 9:35 a.m. Eagles Preserve/EST 3:00 p.m. approximate return Cost: $8 (lunch on your own)

The Village on Venetian Bay is a favorite Naples shopping experience for Southwest Florida residents. The boutique-style shops are intriguing to snoop around in, ranging from smart/casual to hippie/chic to relaxed/ sophisticated to formal/fun. Waterfront dining is available, and the restaurants vary as much as the stores.

Sunday Matinee: North By Northwest (1959)

Sunday, May 17 2:30 p.m. Grand Cypress Room/WDL Cary Grant plays a Manhattan advertising executive plunged into the realm of a spy (James Mason) and counter-spy (Eva Marie Saint). Mistaken for a government agent by foreign infiltrators, he is abducted, framed for murder, chased by a crop-dusting plane, and finally hangs on for his life from the facial features of Mt. Rushmore’s presidents. Don’t miss this enjoyable thriller!

Shell Point Life | May 2015

People

Meet, & Things

Authentic Maine Lobster Bake

Monday, May 18 6:00 p.m. Cost: $35 (per person, all inclusive) Woodlands Commons/WDL Enjoy fresh-from-Maine flavor as we host this year’s Lobster Bake cooked right here at Shell Point. The meal will include one (1 ¼ lb.) lobster (or bar-b-que chicken for $21), creamy New England chowder, Maine steamers, fresh Maine mussels, red bliss potatoes, corn on the cob, cole slaw, hard-boiled egg, dinner rolls, drinks, and fresh-dawn butter. Top it off with fresh homemade strawberry shortcake.

An Evening on Sanibel: Dinner at CIP’s Place

Tuesday, May 19 4:30 p.m. Island 4:40 p.m. Woodlands 4:50 p.m. Eagles Preserve/EST 8:00 p.m. approximate return Cost: $7 (dinner on your own) “Discovering CIP’s Place was like finding an island dining treasure,” said one Shell Point employee after experiencing her first dinner at this wonderful family-owned Sanibel dining establishment. The meals are cooked to perfection, and the ambiance is warm, friendly, and unpretentious. Patrons can select indoor or covered patio seating, if they want the true island outdoor dining experience. Entrée prices are $16.95-$26.95, and the meals are worth every penny.

Name That Tune

Thursday, May 21 1:15 p.m. Social Center/IS This event is filled with fun and laughter as residents test who can name that tune. The game-show-based event will focus on music from the 1940s. Prizes will be awarded for best ‘40s attire and for the winning team. Don’t miss a beat, come to compete!

Computer Club

Thursday, May 21 2:15 p.m. Manatee Room/IS Mike Peterson from Computer Medics will answer all your computer questions before the Computer Club breaks for the summer. Mike requests that you write down your questions before you come, so he can quickly cover as many as possible. No question is too trivial.

Do You Know Your Neighbor? (Poland)

Friday, May 22 2:15 p.m. Social Center/IS Rich in beauty and culture, Poland gives us much to appreciate. Join us for an interactive social event to celebrate this country. If you are Polish, have an interest in the culture, have ever traveled or lived there, this event is for you.

Behind the Scenes Tour: Shell Point Golf Course

Tuesday, May 26 9:30 a.m. Island 9:40 a.m. Woodlands 9:50 a.m. Eagles Preserve/EST Would you like to explore the beautiful golf course and all it has to offer? The staff will take you on a tour of the maintenance and equipment repair facilities, and will

Sign-up required for this activity. Call Island (454-2282) or Woodlands (454-2054)

explore the technologies used for operation. A tour of this Audubon-certified course will highlight water conservation efforts, native habitat conservation, and management practices. The tour will take approximately 2 – 2 ½ hours. Space is limited.

Library Book Talk

Tuesday, May 26 2:15 p.m. Social Center/IS Philip Gannon (Rosemont) will review George W. Bush’s best seller 41: A Portrait of My Father. Discussion and refreshments will follow the presentation.

Movie Night: My Sister Eileen (1955)

Tuesday, May 26 6:45 p.m. Social Center/IS Eileen, a beautiful aspiring actress, and Ruth, a loveless would-be writer, move to New York to chase their dreams. After suave magazine editor Robert Baker insultingly rejects Ruth’s corny romantic tragedies, Ruth takes his advice and writes about something she knows best – her sister’s power over men. Ruth’s secret jealousy of

Special event bus will be running

Eileen leads to a web of lies and much more. Don’t miss this movie filled with lively fun and charm. (Please note the change in date for observance of Memorial Day.)

Resident Hurricane Seminar

Walking up and down stairs

with the U.S. Air Force, this reconnaissance aircraft operated in hostile airspace with complete impunity. Come hear Bob Haase (Junonia) speak about this unique and interesting airplane.

Thursday, May 28 The Village Church/IS 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. In the event of a hurricane, proper planning is essential for a safe evacuation. Attend this resident hurricane seminar to learn valuable information about planning ahead and the steps that Shell Point will take to assist you and secure your safety.

Aviation Club Meeting

Walking required

Thursday, May 28 1:15 p.m. Osprey Room/IS The Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird is the world’s fastest aircraft propelled by airbreathing engines. It has set numerous records, flying at more than three times the speed of sound and at an altitude above 80,000 feet! In 24 years of active service

Let’s Do Lunch: Slate’s in Cape Coral

Friday, May 29 10:00 a.m. Island 10:10 a.m. Woodlands 10:20 a.m. Eagles Preserve/EST 1:30 p.m. approximate return Cost: $7 (lunch on your own) Slate’s is the newest addition to the long and illustrious restaurant careers of chefs and owners, Allan and Nancy Cotter. “Retiring” to Southwest Florida in 2010 from the island of St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Chefs Cotter reignited their passion for creating exquisite food featuring their much-heralded signature Cajun- and Caribbean-infused dishes. Their vision was to create a casual/fine-dining experience that simultaneously evokes a feeling of pure enjoyment among friends and patrons. Selections for lunch average $12-$14

What a Treat! Celebrate Mother’s Day · Sunday, May 10

Mother’s Day Brunch at the Crystal Room 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Join us at the Crystal Room for a delicious Mother’s Day Brunch. The menu will feature an extensive salad bar and assorted brunch items, including Eggs Benedict, omelets prepared to order, cheese blintz with sour cream and strawberries, and assorted pastries.

We will be carving Prime Rib of Beef and Roasted Turkey, as well as Tarragon Salmon and Baked Ham, accompanied by a variety of hot vegetables and a large dessert buffet, featuring a chocolate fountain. Cost is $26.95. All the ladies will receive a flower! Shell Point Life | May 2015

Alcoholics Anonymous Thursdays, May 7, 14, 21, and 28 4:30 p.m. Sabal Room/WDL This is a fellowship of those who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other to solve their common problem and help others recover from alcoholism. This “open” meeting of AA welcomes those who struggle with alcohol as well as those who support them. For more information, contact the intergroup phone number, 275-5111.

Cancer Support 1-on-1 Mentoring The goal of this resident-led program is to establish group mentoring connections between newly diagnosed cancer patients and cancer survivors. Contact Barbara Maruchi (Springs) at 333–0120.

Caregiver Support Group Tuesdays, May 5 and 19 Group 1: 9:15 a.m. Group 2: 10:30 a.m. Medical Center Conference Room/IS This therapeutic group is aimed at helping residents deal with issues of being a caregiver for someone with a memory disorder, whether the resident is cared for in independent living, assisted living, or skilled nursing. Dr. Nancy Spencer facilitates the group and can be reached at 454-2043. Sign-up is required.

Diabetes Group Appointment Friday, May 1 1:00 p.m. Social Center/IS Both insulin and non-insulin diabetics are encouraged to attend this meeting. Each monthly meeting covers a different topic and includes open discussion.

Finding Joy (for Caregivers) This group is on summer break and will reconvene in October. This group will assist participants with coping as a caregiver, through shared experiences and uplifting programs. Contact Jane Johnston (Lucina) at 464-5903 for more information.

Healing Journey Grief Support This group is on break. However, if you had a recent loss, our grief facilitators would be happy to meet with you on an individ28

Shell Point Life | May 2015

Support Groups ual basis. Please contact Dotty Morrison (Cellana) at 337-4015, or Judy Mayer (Junonia) at 454-3139. You may also contact the Village Church office at 454-2147.

Hearing Enrichment Group Wednesday, May 27 1:15 p.m. Manatee Room/IS Poor hearing can affect many aspects of one’s life. MaryJude Moffat, case manager, 225-2929, will be facilitating this group that will help residents cope with such issues.

Memory Care Therapy Groups Individual assessment is required before joining one of the following groups. Individual appointments are also available. Kathy Fratrick, LCSW, 454-2073, facilitates the groups.

Neuropathy Support Group Wednesday, May 20 11:00 a.m. Oak Room/WDL This group provides support for those dealing with neuropathy. Contact Lenny Wodarczyk (Parkwood) at 443-4769.

Parkinson’s Enrichment Group Monday, May 4 10:15 a.m. King’s Crown Community Room/IS This group aims to provide support and education to those affected by Parkinson’s disease as a patient, caregiver, family member, or friend. Each meeting includes a speaker, group discussion, and opportunities for emotional support. For more information, call 454-2186.

COPD Support Group Tuesdays, May 5 and 19 Group 1: 9:15 a.m. Group 2: 10:30 a.m. Behavioral Health Conference Room/IS Wednesdays, May 6, 13, and 20 3:00 p.m. Behavioral Health Conference Room/IS

This group meets quarterly; the next meeting will be on Tuesday, July 28. The objective is to provide information and discussions that will be relevant to individuals with a range of breathing problems, as well as those dependent on supplemental oxygen. For additional information, call Ken Peterson at 482-3779.

The Vision Enrichment Group These groups are designed to provide education and support to residents who have some type of memory disorder. The objectives of the groups are to identify practical strategies to help residents better manage their memory loss, address long-range planning, and offer an environment that fosters a sense of purpose and heightened self-esteem.

Tuesday, May 12 10:15 a.m. Social Center/IS This group is for networking and sharing stories and information. Florence Putman (Eagles Preserve) is the chairperson. For more information, contact Case Manager Angie Prichard at 454-2134.

Shell Point volunteer tour guide Bill Saunders (King’s Crown.)

Above: Harry Wolf (King’s Crown) and Miranda Fleming, activities coordinator. Below: Gregory Vicente (The Springs)

Helen Baller (K ing’s Crown)

rbor) Joyce Brown (A

Tom and Ruth Borgen (The Springs)

Searching for Sea Life aboard the Suzy Q B

Bald eagles and dolphins were among the wildlife seen during the excursion.

n g a

r e d a hl

, A

s s i s t e d

i v i n g

On a recent sunny morning, residents of King’s Crown, The Arbor, and The Springs embarked on a grand marine voyage, led by our fearless captain and first mate on the Suzy Q. While cruising the waterways, passengers enjoyed the fresh sea breezes and a delicious picnic lunch. Admiring the crystal-clear, turquoise waters, our Shell Point volunteer tour guide pointed out local wildlife, including several dolphins splashing nearby and a pair

c t i v i t i e s

u p e r v i s o r

of majestic bald eagles flying overhead. He explained the important role the mangroves play in protecting this area’s environment, and shared the history of Punta Rassa, a thriving cattle-shipping town dating back to the 1800s. Many will cherish these fun memories of boating and relaxing together aboard the Suzy Q, and are looking forward to the next sea-worthy adventure – pirates not invited!

All Aboard!

Dennis Carlson (King’s Crown) Shell Point Life | May 2015

G.M. Collin Skin Care Where Nature Meets Technology B

o b y n

h u r c h

s a l o n

a n d

s p a

m a n a g e r

489-8400

G.M. Collin products are derived from natural plant and marine extracts, including certified organic ingredients, and are biotechnologically developed to achieve results. G.M. Collin abides by the strictest manufacturing regulations – ones that comply with pharmaceutical standards set by Health Canada and the FDA in the United States. We offer several G.M. Collin clinical treatments to hydrate and rejuvenate your skin: Lunch-Time Peel.

This 30-minute treatment exfoliates the skin’s surface layers for cell renewal, improving the texture of the skin. A series of four to six treatments once weekly is recommended to reduce the signs of aging and hyperpigmentation. $60 Algo Radiance. This enriching

treatment provides immediate and long-lasting hydration. Its thermocooling effect on the skin makes it a remarkably soothing treatment, ideal for dehydrated/sensitive and rosacea-prone skin. $85 Sea C Spa. A powerful age-defying

treatment designed to delay the visible signs of aging, providing long-lasting results on fine lines and wrinkles. This energizing antioxidant treatment improves cellular regeneration and natural defenses. This is a one-hour luxury treatment to ensure skin rejuvenation, elasticity, and suppleness. $110

Collagen Resurgence. This 90-minute

intensely rejuvenating treatment dramatically minimizes deeper lines and wrinkles, while tightening the skin by stimulating cell metabolism. The skin is quenched, leaving it optimally hydrated and radiant for immediate and long-lasting results following a series of treatments. $135 Introductory Offer! Receive a free Chemical

Peel with Algo Radiance, Sea C Spa, or Collagen Resurgence ($20 value).

May Salon Special — Renew Your Skin and WIN!

$410 ! Value 30

Shell Point Life | May 2015

CLINICALLY PROVEN RESULTS AFTER JUST ONE TREATMENT WITH COLLAGEN RESURGENCE: • An increase in hydration by up to 107% • A decrease in total area of wrinkles by up to 86% • A decrease in the total length of wrinkles by up to 75%

All customers rejuvenating their skin with a G.M. Collin facial or skin treatment during May will be automatically entered for a chance to win a Complete Phyto Stem Cell Home Care System, with a retail value of $410. Spectacular results with this innovative cream, serum, eye contour, and mask for remarkable wrinkle reduction! We will draw the winner on Friday, May 29.

Reap the Rewards The Salon & Spa is offering valuable customer rewards! Rejuvenate your skin with 6 skin treatments, and receive one FREE (equal or lesser value.) Purchase 6 professional home care products, and receive one FREE (equal or lesser value.) Ask for your loyalty/reward card with your next purchase!

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT...

Planning for a Move to Assisted Living

Thursday, May 7 9:00 a.m at The Arbor Call 454-2299 to RSVP

Get answers to your questions • Find out what to expect during the move-in process Receive helpful tips on downsizing • Learn where to begin, and what’s next

Join case managers Stephanie Devlin, Mary Jude Moffat, Janine Hammond, Angie Prichard, and Sandee Webber for a helpful assisted living presentation.

Please join us at The Arbor on Thursday, May 7, at 9:00 a.m. for an informational presentation by the Shell Point case managers on “What to Know When Planning For a Move to Assisted Living.” If you or a loved one are planning to move to any of Shell Point’s three assisted living locations (King’s Crown, The Arbor, or The Springs) in the next six months, or if you have already added your name to the assisted living wait list, you will not want to miss this helpful presentation. Topics will include what to expect during the movein process, tips on downsizing, and where to begin. For more information or to reserve a space, please call Pat Cunningham at 454-2299.

Get the ‘Sweet Scoop’ on the Larsen Pavilion

Tour the Rehab Center and Learn More About Skilled Nursing

Learn what to expect during a short-term rehab stay.

Please join us at The Larsen Pavilion on Thursday, May 14, at 2 p.m. for an ice cream social and tour. Enjoy a delicious scoop of Love Boat Homemade Ice Cream while listening to an informative presentation by Sherry Brown, director of Long Term Care. This is the perfect opportunity to have all your Rehab and Skilled Nursing questions answered, before touring the beautiful Pavilion facility. You will learn more about these medical services and what to expect during a short-term rehab stay. For more information or to reserve a space, please call Rhanda Lee at 415-5432.

Get the Sweet Scoop on the Larsen Pavilion Thursday, May 14, at 2:00 p.m The Larsen Pavilion Call 415-5432 to RSVP

Shell Point Life | May 2015

Hurricane Awareness and Preparation

Vital Information for Potential Weather-Related Emergencies B

o y

e s t o r

h u r r i c a n e

a n d

With the unpredictable nature of hurricanes, Floridians need to be prepared! Fortunately, if a hurricane threatens the community, Shell Point residents have the benefit of on-site safety in the hurricane shelter located on The Island. And while the hope is that the shelter will not be needed, it is still vital to be prepared. Activating Hurricane Plan A detailed Shell Point hurricane plan is used by staff as a guideline in the event of a weather-related emergency. The particular circumstances of the storm and the time available to perform certain tasks may dictate changes in the sequencing of the plan, or even which tasks are completed. The plan is set in motion by the Shell Point Hurricane Management Team as soon as a tropical storm becomes named. The first step is actively tracking the storm. The team may activate the detailed and organized evacuation plan approximately 36 to 48 hours prior to landfall, based on the following criteria: • An assessment of the distance, relative to Shell Point, that tropical force winds extend out from the storm’s center, and the overall size and strength of the approaching storm. • Recommendations to evacuate by Lee County Emergency Management and a consulting meteorologist. Accurate and up-to-date storm tracking is critical, and the Shell Point Hurricane Management Team will rely on different sources and use various means of communication to inform residents and employees of all decisions and plans. Resident Responsibilities While the staff at Shell Point is committed to maintaining its core values of caring, serving, and satisfying residents in 32

Shell Point Life | May 2015

s a f e t y

c o o r d i n a t o r

The Shell Point hurricane shelter provides safe shelter from the high winds and driving rains assoicated with hurricanes.

the event of an evacuation, residents must also take part in ensuring their own safety by preparing well in advance. It’s the residents’ responsibility to stay abreast of information provided by Shell Point. The president, or his designee, will direct specific communication of storm updates to the Resident Council via in-person meetings, phone calls, and/or e-mail updates. The Shell Point Hurricane Management Team will maintain up-to-date information on the Resident Information Hotline at (239) 339-2541 (toll-free 1-866-551-6013), on Shell Point TV – Channel 11, the resident website at shellpoint.net, and through any other expedient means of communication. Please consult these intra-community forms of communication first, as they are the quickest way to release important information to the entire resident population. Expect the normal routines of the Shell Point staff to be interrupted as they prepare for an impending storm. Once we begin preparing for a storm, please direct your questions to the court representatives or their designees. Helping Hands “This is the time of year when residents start calling to ask if we need volunteers

during hurricane season,” explained Teri Kollath, Academy and Auxiliary manager. “The answer is simple – ask your court rep how you can lend a helping hand.” Help before the storm includes duties like assisting people in your court prepare their hurricane supplies. Help during the storm involves providing assistance in the shelter, sharing reading materials and games, and offering general assistance as needed. Some volunteers may also be needed to help clear the shelter after a storm. Comfortable Seating Each resident should have a comfortable folding chair or a cot to use in the hurricane shelter, as long as it is no more than 27 inches wide, and is lightweight and portable. In the event of an evacuation, chairs and cots will likely be brought to the shelter in advance. Proper identification attached to the chair will help the crew with set-up and also help you locate the chair quickly when you reach the shelter. Hurricane Shelter Kit The Shell Point hurricane plan indicates that resident hurricane kits are to be transported to the shelter in advance of an actual evacuation, if time and circumstances allow. Therefore, the kits must not include any perishable food, beverages, medications, or valuables. (Simple, basic non-perishable meals and minimum daily water supply will be provided by Shell Point for those staying in the shelter.)

Kits should be assembled in a small, zippered tote bag labeled with an ID tag with your contact information. Consider packing the following items in your kit: • Sanitary wipes or small liquid hand sanitizer (since water will not be available for bathing) • Disposable toothbrush/tooth wipes • Hand towel or wash cloth • Three-day supply of dietary needs • Full one-liter water bottle • Change of clothes • Flashlight and batteries • Small pillow • Entertainment materials • Ear plugs • Small bug spray • Small snacks Personal Medical Needs Plan to bring medications and oxygen supplies with you during evacuation. Considering that the infrastructure in the region could be damaged, it is recommended you obtain no less than a two-week supply of all medications. Portable oxygen tanks should be used during transportation to and from the shelter, and for time spent settling in at the shelter. Following set-up, emergency generators will be able to accommodate oxygen concentrators. The generators should also be able to accommodate residents who use CPAP machines. Emergency supplies of oxygen will be available in the event of a power or equipment failure. Personal Automobiles During evacuation, all residents are asked to leave their vehicles and golf carts in their designated parking spaces. It is a good practice, however, to fill your gas tank in the days leading up to a possible evacuation. Transportation will be provided to and from the shelter. Never go to the shelter on your own. Use the Shell Point transportation provided for you. For Your Pet Shell Point pet owners have several options for caring for their pet during an evacuation. The first option is to arrange for off-site kenneling with a reputable facility that is equipped to offer boarding services throughout the duration of a hurricane. The second option is to consider whether

you have local friends or family members who may be willing to care for your pet. This would entail developing a plan to transport your pet well in advance of declining weather conditions. The final option is to shelter your pet in the Shell Point designated pet shelter on campus. This space is separate from the space that is designated for residents, and would be available only to pets that are registered as Shell Point pets. Pet owners will not be able to spend time with their pets during an evacuation. While some assistance may be available, you may be required to transport your pet to the shelter, so please plan accordingly. Detailed instructions will be provided in advance of a potential evacuation. All pets in the Shell Point shelter must be housed in a sturdy pet carrier, sufficiently sized to allow the pet enough room to stand and turn around comfortably. The carrier must be labeled with your contact information, and it should have a photograph of the pet taped to the outside, including details of any particular characteristics of the pet, such as temperament, required medications, dietary needs, etc. Your pet should also be wearing a name tag and, if possible, have an identification chip previously installed under its skin. Also provide the following: • Plastic or unbreakable food dish • Water bowl or water “licker” dispenser • Pet food labeled with your name and your pet’s name • Leash and collar for walking dogs • Litter for cats properly filled and sized for the carrier • Up-to-date rabies inoculation certificate for review by shelter management • Necessary medications Learn more important information about care for your pet during an evacuation at the Pet Owner’s Hurricane Seminar on Thursday, June 18, at 10:15 a.m. in the Social Center on The Isalnd. Stock Up It’s important to stock your home with needed essentials prior to hurricane sea-

Sample hurricane kit

son. Be sure to have drinking water, nonperishable food, and a two-week supply of prescription medications. With the possibility of an extended power outage, it’s also recommended to have a battery-powered emergency alert radio, a flashlight (not candles or flammable fuel lamps), and spare batteries. Residents requiring oxygen are encouraged to maintain a minimum three-day supply of oxygen in their apartments throughout the hurricane season to help compensate for any weather-related shortages that may occur. Remember, proper planning is essential for a safe evacuation. As a general rule, all items intended for use in the shelter must be labeled with your name and court to expedite an organized set up of the shelter. It will also ensure that all items are returned to their proper owners. After the storm passes and everyone is cleared to leave the shelter, you should take all medications, oxygen supplies, keys, flashlights, and your purse or wallet with you when you leave the shelter. Please contact your court representative with any questions.

Plan to attend the Resident Hurricane Seminar Thursday, May 2, 10:30 a.m. The Village Church Shell Point management will provide detailed information and answer questions. If you cannot attend the seminar or would like to review the information, a DVD copy of the presentation will be available at the main resident library on The Island, or online at shellpoint.net. When a hurricane threatens, upto-date information is available on the Shell Point Resident Information Hotline at (239) 339-2541 (toll-free 1-866-551-6013).

Shell Point Life | May 2015

Anchors

Define Generous Volunteers in 2015 B

e l o d y

e s i l e t s

, V

o l u n t e e r

o o r d i n a t o r

Splashes of magenta, This grand event was a true reflection royal blue, and bright of the generosity our yellow greeted 450 volunteers have conresident volunteers on tributed throughout March 26 as they entered the 2014 calendar The Woodlands Commons, year, which amounted which was converted into to 131,000 total hours! a nautical wonderland, The magnitude of this complete with a 20-foot service is only accomanchor balloon sculpture, plished through commaritime dĂŠcor, and seamitted volunteers who food delicacies. Shell Point President Peter Dys greeted volunteers are anchored in the misThe theme, Resident sion of Shell Point and Volunteers are an ANCHOR in the Shell Point Community, showcased who believe in giving back to their comthe fact that volunteers have become a munity and beyond. mainstay here in the community, anchorIt is a great honor to celebrate these ing special interest groups, and providing special volunteers, and their steadfast unparalleled leadership. dedication is most appreciated.

Janet and Dave

Jean and Fritz Knox (Lakewood)

Kate Sullivan (Eagles Preserve)

s Preserve)

Howard (Eagle

Shell Point Life | May 2015

Elaine Nabors (Rosemont) and Ruth Rodgers (Palm Acres)

Suzy Q May Schedule

Take a Ride on the Suzy Q

Join other nautical lovers for an escape by boat, on our own Shell Point Suzy Q.

MONDAYS 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Matanzas on the Bay (Fort Myers Beach) Pam Blough (Cellana), Dotty Morrison (Cellana), Herb and Sheila Sklar (Eagles Preserve)

FIRST AND THIRD TUESDAYS 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Woody’s Waterfront Restaurant (Pine Island) SECOND AND FOURTH TUESDAYS 10:15 a.m. – 2 p.m. Gramma Dot’s Restaurant (Sanibel Island) WEDNESDAYS Available for private charters; contact Melody Desilets, Resort Services, at 454-2290 THURSDAYS 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Rum Runners (Cape Harbor)

Paul and Jane Hode (Oakmont)

FIRST FRIDAY (MAY1) 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Doc Ford’s Waterfront (San Carlos Island) SECOND FRIDAY (MAY 8) 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Green Flash Restaurant (Captiva Island) Third Friday (MAY 15) 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. St. Charles Yacht Club (Iona Shores) NOTE: RESORT ATTIRE REQUIRED, AND GUESTS MUST PAY BY CREDIT CARD.

Elaine and Michael Gadaleta (Eagles Preserve) and Charles Lehnert (Eagles Preserve)

Cost per excursion is $5 per person, round trip (charged to resident’s Shell Point account); cost for meals on your own. Guests and family are invited, but no children under five allowed. For reservations and information, call 454-2136. May hours: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m Shell Point Life | May 2015

The Legacy Foundation and The Academy of Lifelong Learning Present

What Now?

What happens when your spouse or loved one passes away? What do you do? What will the next year bring? These experts will discuss the estate settlement process, so you know what to expect on the financial front during this delicate time of transition. Please RSVP to either service desk.

What Now? Wednesday, May 20 10 – 11 a.m. Grand Cypress Room/WDL Presented by: Gail Neuharth, Senior Trust Advisor, and Betsy Alderman, Wealth Strategist, from The Northern Trust Company

Betsy Alderman

Gail Neuharth

(LS01)

For All Your Automotive Needs… and Golf Carts Too! Introducing Auto Services at Shell Point “We can do everything for your car – all makes and models – and golf carts too, whether electric or gas,” said Scott Janson, owner of Scotty’s Automotive, which opened in mid-March at the Shell Point Garage on The Island. “If we can’t do it here, we can take it to our big shop on McGregor. We have specialty, ASCcertified, master mechanics for Mercedes, BMW, Lexus, and all domestic brands.” Scotty’s offers more than just oil changes and tune ups, tire balancing and alignment, replacement belts and hoses. His customized, customer-friendly services include road calls to fix flat tires and jump start dead batteries, a tow if needed, with a “drive home and pick-up” feature upon request via Scotty’s distinctive bright bluepainted golf cart. “There’s only so much equipment we can fit here into two bays, and there’s no place to store used tires,” said Scott, who will personally be on site for the coming year as he sets up an efficient system that works for Shell Point residents’ needs. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8

Shell Point Life | May 2015

a.m. to 5 p.m. In addition, customers can drop off their cars at any time, complete a service request form, and safely deposit it along with the keys in the office door slot. Scott sets up an account for each customer and maintains a record of service history. The shop phone is (239) 454-0200. Regulars assigned to work at the Shell Point Garage are Mike, the licensed car mechanic, and Paul, the golf cart expert. Nestor is scheduled to work certain days on complete car detailing.

“Residents are asking now about our summer service, and we’re happy to continue that Jerry’s Garage tradition,” said Scott. “It includes disconnecting the battery, monitoring and moving the vehicle short term if Shell Point building maintenance is required in the parking garage, and prepping it for any scheduled return dates with a complete cleaning and check for battery restart.” In addition to the comprehensive 16-step process for annual golf cart maintenance, Scott also recommends that residents get a monthly check-up on their carts. “Just stop by so we can top off the water levels in all the electric batteries and check the air in the tires, both of which are important during hot summer temperatures,” he said. “This will keep it safer and help extend the life of the cart.”

Leaving A Legacy Full of Meaning B

e f f

o r y

, E

x e c u t i v e

i r e c t o r

Everyone wants to leave a legacy – some indication that he or she lived well and made a memorable impact on others. Some leave an obvious legacy that affects future generations. As residents of Fort Myers, we don’t have to look far…the names of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford come to mind quickly. All of us will leave a legacy of some kind, perhaps more modest than that of Edison and Ford, but we don’t have to change the world to make a difference. Instead, a person can change his/her family, neighborhood, or community. The scale might be smaller, but the work is equally critical. What does “leaving a legacy” mean at Shell Point? Here are just 10 examples of how residents have left an indelible mark on our community; there are many more!

, T

• • • • • • • • • •

h e

e g a c y

o u n d a t i o n

a t

h e ll

Friendship Fund LifeQuest Aquatic Center The Larsen Pavilion at Shell Point The J. Howard Wood Medical Center Rehabilitation Center at Shell Point Friendly Dog Park Suzy Q V Shell Point Beach Steinbach Chapel in The Larsen Pavilion Gazebo at The Arbor

o i n t

The incredible benevolence at Shell Point is exhibited in the exceptional services, programs, and buildings we all enjoy. Benevolence takes us from being great, to being extraordinary. Shell Point is able to provide better, faster, and higher quality services through philanthropy. Sir Edmund Hillary said it best, “People do not decide to become extraordinary. They decide to accomplish extraordinary things.” We owe a special thank you to the exceptional residents (both past and present) who accomplished extraordinary things through their legacy to make Shell Point a great place to live! To learn more about opportunities to leave your mark at Shell Point, contact the Legacy Foundation today at 466-8484.

2015 Library Fund Drive Raises $30,000 B

i n d a

o r c e y

a r k w o o d

)

Hooray! Thanks to the generous contributions of so many residents, we have passed the $30,000 mark for funds raised in the 2015 drive to assist the Shell Point Library…and we are still counting. Our 70 volunteers extend appreciation to all these wonderful donors. This is a once-a-year appeal that provides the fuel that keeps our beloved library system vibrant and successful, which would not be possible without your support. This support means the various components of our library system can be updated and maintained every year, such as purchasing new books (including large print), DVDs, and audio books. It also supports renewal of local newspapers, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Barron’s so residents can keep up with local, national, financial, and international news. The main library also supports the specialized genealogy library located at The Woodlands and the reading centers at King’s Crown and The Arbor. These libraries receive at least two new large-print books per month, along with books and DVDs from the main library. We also appreciate your support, including books, any time of the year.

Florence Wieder (Royal Bonnet) is a regular Shell Point Library patron who commonly references the Value Line and Morningstar materials for investment research. For entertainment, she also enjoys checking out the latest movies, as well as the classics, from the large DVD library.

Shell Point Life | May 2015

Summer Hours for Popular Shell Point Destinations

Gift Shop

Comings & Goings

Beginning Friday, May 1, the Gift Shop will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

Keeping Your Home Safe While You’re Away Completing a “Comings & Goings” form will help Shell Point staff know when to keep an eye on your home if you are away from the community for an extended period – whether it’s three days or three months. A weekly check on a vacant unit is wise. The “Comings & Goings” form confirms how long you plan to be gone, provides alternate phone or email contact information, and whether you wish to have your monthly statement forwarded to another address. In addition, you can choose to continue having your home cleaned while you are away, and residents on the Morning Assurance program generally have this service placed on hold. Shell Point staff works to assure the safety and security of your home and its contents, making periodic checks of the unit to monitor for leaks from rain, faulty plumbing, or other major issues, and to ensure that windows and doors remain closed and locked.

Shell Point Life | May 2015

If you plan to be away for three weeks or more, staff will turn off the water and adjust the air conditioning to 76 degrees to control humidity. Power also will be turned off to all appliances, except the refrigerator. Everything is turned on, of course, prior to your return. Any time a staff member enters your home, whether for maintenance or housekeeping, they will leave written notification on the kitchen counter, indicating the date they made the check. Forms are available online at shellpoint.net/comingsandgoings.html, or in paper form from either service desk or your court representative. You can return completed forms online, at the service desk, or hand it to security at the gate as you leave. Forms are filed at the Call Center, which can be reached at 454-2190. Supervisor Keri Perkins requests advance notice of 24-48 business hours, when possible, to allow time to enter the information in the system.

Open Tuesday – Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Gulf Coast Model Railroad

Closed May through October

www.shellpoint.net/christmasfund

IT’S AN ATTITUDE OF “YES”

Is This Customer Service? B

a t h y

i s k e ll

, 2015 E

m p l o y e e

Sometimes I find myself waiting at a “customer service” counter – at a pharmacy, an airport, a hospital – watching while the clerk across from me stares at his/her computer screen, taps some keys, and, from time to time, asks me a question. It’s not that they’re being rude, but I think that sometimes modern technology has brought us to a point where employees no longer have relationships with their customers. Rather they have relationships with what their computer screens are telling them about their customers. For the customer, that’s pretty much a “No” experience.

h r i s t m a s

u n d

o m m i t t e e

h a i r

Nancy Reid serves sandwiches with a smile at Café Promenade at The Woodlands.

Contrast that with the treatment we receive from Shell Point employees. They look at us, they smile at us, they listen to us, they lean toward us if we happen to speak softly. Everything about this interaction says “Yes, I see you; you are important”

… because that is their attitude, that is their training, that is their heart. The 2015 Employee Christmas Fund gives us a chance to say “Yes” back to these marvelous people – to say, “Yes, I see you too, and I appreciate you.” It’s easy to give: donation forms can be found at either service desk or on-line at www.shellpoint.net/christmasfund. You can donate by check or by monthly billing. If you have questions, suggestions, or stories that reflect “An Attitude of ‘Yes’,” please call me at 464-7313 or email cmiskell@vail.net.

Global Outreach

MAKING A DIFFERENCE…

HERE AND AROUND THE WORLD

b y

o t t y

o r r i s o n

e ll a n a

)

In June 2013, Janelle Beaber joined New Missions Systems International (NMSI), a nonprofit organization headquartered here in Fort Myers. Her goal was to make a difference in the lives of others. NMSI serves in 26 countries around the world, helping individuals by providing business training and start-up costs, rescuing girls from sex-trafficking, providing educational and community health resources, as well as training pastors and planting churches. Locally, they are working in partnership with another organization to provide job opportunities and resources to young women who have been exploited and trafficked in our area of Florida. You are invited to hear Janelle Beaber,

Investing in Hope... Transforming our Nation Through Prayer! Janelle Beaber

director of Project Advancement for NMSI, at the monthly Global Outreach meeting on Wednesday, May 20, in the Social Center on The Island at 10:15 a.m. Invite a friend, and come at 10 a.m. for refreshments.

National Day of Prayer May 7 In celebration, please offer a prayer for our nation and its leaders. Shell Point Life | May 2015

y S t e v e M o r t o n , l a n d s c a p e m a n a g e r

Nature’s Notebook

Listen for the Tradition of an Indiana Home For much of my lifetime, he has sung the song. Each year, I wait impatiently for the rich, buttery, baritone voice as the harbinger of something bigger, something exciting. Annually on Memorial Day weekend, a simple “Tin Pan Alley” pop song becomes transformed by an unlikely troubadour into a magnificent love song dedicated to the entire state of Indiana…and romantics in the rest of the world.

Back home again in Indiana, And it seems that I can see The gleaming candle light, still shining bright, Through the Sycamores for me. The new-mowed hay sends all its fragrance From the fields I used to roam. When I dream about the moonlight on the Wabash Then I long for my Indiana home. Jim Nabors has been singing Indiana to herald the start of the Indianapolis 500 Mile

Race since 1972. When you first observe “Gomer Pyle, USMC” standing at the microphone, it seems improbable that he could sing a melody, yet he does so with a grace that has endeared him to millions of racing fans. Nabors’ performance has become a cherished launch of a summer tradition. Traditions are important because they give people a sense of permanence in uncertain times. We seek out our traditions because they can be counted on year after year. In the Shell Point landscape, we have a summer tradition of planting Dwarf Allamanda flowers. During the winter, this South American native plant could be easily overlooked. With pale leaves and no flowers, there is no particular reason to pay attention to the humble “PFC,” Private First Class. Like Jim Nabors, the Dwarf Allamanda waits until the start of summer to shine. June brings clusters of musket-like, yellow flowers that explode without quarter until the armi-

stice of fall. While Allamandas appear to be summer annuals, due to their vigorous flowering routine, these troopers are perennials and can be returned to service year after year. Some of our old soldiers have been in the field for five years, while taking winter leave in our nursery. On May 25, 2014, Jim Nabors once again stepped up to the microphone, accompanied by the Purdue University All-American Marching Band, and began to sing “Back Home Again.” Simultaneously, 10,000 red, white, blue, and yellow helium-filled balloons were released from a tent in the track infield. This was Nabors’ final show, and he gave the fans the performance of his life. At the end of Jim’s song, the traditional command to “start your engines” is given. This year, near the end of May in honor of our traditions, a command will also be given in the Landscape department. “Gentlemen, plant your Allamandas.”