Shell Point Life July-August 2020

ALSO INSIDE: Shell Point Strong • Migration Vacation • Summer Fitness Jul/Aug 2020 Vol. 15 Issue 7

RESIDENT CELEBRATES BIRTHDAY OF THE CENTURY!

FOURTH OF JULY PARADE PLANNED

YARNTASTIC SERVICE PROJECT

Military Service Shapes Veteran

Top Stories for July/August 2020 will certainly be remembered as an eventful year. As we continue to practice appropriate social distancing, we can also take some comfort in the positive stories that continue to abound here at Shell Point. Here are a few highlights from articles within this bi-monthly issue of Shell Point Life.

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Earl Kennedy

We start with a fascinating article about one of Shell Point’s very special veterans, Earl Kennedy. Earl has been collecting military items large and small from various wars and combat operations that span decades of American history. Earl’s collection of jeeps, scrapbooks, uniforms, medals, memorabilia and more has become almost a military museum and we get the opportunity to take a peek starting on page 4.

Bird Migration

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Birds of a feather migrate together. Resident Dotty Morrison shares her special affinity for avian creatures in an article on page 10 that highlights this year’s unusual bird migration pattern. Several migratory species that normally do not come to Florida, made a stop here following storm activity. Over several days, Dotty and other birding enthusiasts spotted these visitors that normally do not travel to this region.

Shell Point Strong

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Shell Point employees are stronger than ever when working together! Shell Point has been celebrating the dedicated men and women that make up the Shell Point team with Shell Point Strong.

Turn to page 24 to check out some of the happy, smiling faces (behind the masks) that greet and serve our residents every day.

On The Cover Jay Bubb (Parkwood) received a Purple Heart during his Army service in the Vietnam War. 2

Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.

– Galatians 5:1a

Shell Point Life is published for the residents of Shell Point Retirement Community.

Director of Marketing & Communications Lynn Schneider Creative Director Rich Cerrina Senior Graphic Designer Wendy Iverson Contributors Dawn Boren, Pat Bubb, Robyn Church, Claude Emler, Michelle Emmett, Janine Hammond, Jonathan High, Gabriella Kelly, Ginny Miller-Plaza, Dotty Morrison, Steve Morton, Don Pullen, Ashley Robbin, Laura Slack, Jami Smith, Carol Sperlak, Michelle Tompkins, Susan Uhleman, Michael Weiss, Peggy Zimmerman Shell Point Life Available Online You can find the current issue as well as back issues of Shell Point Life magazine at www.shellpoint.org/shellpointlife.

RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

13921 Shell Point Plaza • Fort Myers, FL 33908 (239) 466-1131 • www.shellpoint.org Shell Point is a nonprofit ministry of the Christian and Missionary Alliance Foundation, Inc.

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Enter Your Golf Cart Enter Your Bicycle for the Parade N Parade Route Seating N The Naples Brass Band N Flags For Waving

Fourth of July Parade and Holiday Lunch Special 10 a.m. • Saturday, July 4 Join your Resident Programming team for a morning of everything red, white and blue! Plan to celebrate our country’s independence with a Shell Point community-wide parade held on Saturday, July 4 at 10 a.m., starting at the Village Church, circling The Island, then The Woodlands, Eagles Preserve, The Estuary, The Springs, Connected Living, and ending back at The Island.

The Resident Programming Team

will accept 30 golf cart and 10 bike entries, starting on June 10. At that time, a set of guidelines will be given to each participant. Get ready to show off your creative side and deck out your golf cart or bike in all things patriotic.

Several areas along the parade route will have chairs placed for audience seating (while adhering to social distancing guidelines, of course).

American flags will be delivered to each internal mailbox so you can show

your pride along the parade route. The Naples Brass Band will be part of the parade, playing patriotic favorites.

Following the parade, The Crystal patio will be hosting a grab-and-go 4th of July cookout from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The menu will include: ribs, corn on the cob, cornbread and festive cookies, all in a convenient to-go box! All carryout or delivery pre-orders and payment of $15 can be taken by the delivery phone line at: 239-433-7949.

Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

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Resident Profile

EARL KENNEDY

Preserving Pride in Service

BY CRAIG HANDEL

O

n more than one occasion, Earl

but Earl does, from a self-proclaimed “man cave”

Kennedy of Parkwood has been

that is located just down the street from his home

picked up by law enforcement while

at Shell Point.

driving around Fort Myers. No, not for speeding.

The Pennsylvania and West Virginia native

But a man driving a 1940’s jeep with a machine

has jeeps from 1943 and 1945 in a storage

gun on top has a way of getting attention.

unit along with an Army trailer, 19 mannequins

Earl chuckles at the memories. “I’ve been

wearing military uniforms from different wars, a

pulled over by the police and the FBI, several of

replica of Teddy Roosevelt charging up San Juan

them on different occasions,” he said. “Once they

Hill, World War II historical pieces, various war

get to know me and find out what it is, they want

antiques, and articles and literature related to

a picture taken.”

various United States conflicts.

The mounted gun on the jeep no longer works;

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Continued on next page

Earl’s extensive military collection includes items he has found as well as those gifted to him by others. His collection includes jeeps, scrapbooks, uniforms, medals, and a wide variety of memorabilia.

Continued on next page Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

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A Rough Rider, which is depicted from the Spanish American War includes an original saddle, suspenders, saddle bags, eyeglasses and even an entire uniform.

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Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

The wildlife in Vietnam’s jungle was impressive. While working to clear a path with a machete through the thick vegetation, Earl once found himself faceto-face with one of the many species of monkey found there.

EARL KENNEDY Continued

“It’s become a miniature museum, dedicated to patriots,” said Earl. “I started collecting and couldn’t stop.

The mannequins are all dressed in uniforms from a certain period. I found good, original clothing – although I cheated with Teddy Roosevelt; he has Civil War boots.”

“I didn’t think I had any capability to be any kind of artist. I had to make the mannequins fit the uniform because men back then were smaller.

I had to do surgery and use my multitool to make them fit.”

Giving regular tours over the past year, Earl tells a number of stories from his experiences. He admits it can be hard at times but feels it’s important to share the history of what really happened in Vietnam. “It never leaves you,” he said.

Earl Kennedy is a long-time military man. He attended ROTC training at WVU. After 15 months of training at Fort Benning in Georgia and Jackson, South Carolina in 1970 and 1971, he spent more than 10 months in Vietnam. In that time, he took officer, infantry and paratrooper

training, then groomed troops in basic training. While in Vietnam, he became a platoon leader and field company commander. On more than one occasion, he led the way walking through areas rife with booby traps.

Florida Senator Rick Scott and his staff are working with Earl to process paperwork that would make him a recipient of a Purple Heart.

“Earl, he’s great,” Vietnam veteran and Purple Heart recipient Jay Bubb said. “He

drives that jeep all around. The police are always pulling him over.

He’s the real deal.”

Earl took shrapnel in his backside – “I wondered later why I had a hole in my pants” – dealt with boils that almost became gangrene and suffered numerous injuries after falling down mountains and walking through the jungle while carrying an 80-pound ruck sack on his back.

“In 2000, I thought I had cancer,” Earl said. “A lump had worked its way up. I went to see my family doctor and she said, ‘There’s a piece of metal in there.’ She said it would eventually work itself out. It did in about 2008.

“When you’re in the jungle, fighting to save the day, you don’t have showers, hot food, clean clothes. I have a picture and I Continued on next page

Rear installation — After being out in the thick jungle for three or four weeks, infantrymen were helicoptered in and out to take cold showers.

Nice clean fatigues on.

Firebase 1971 — Rarely coming out of the jungle for two or three days, this was right after finding a large cache of ammunition.

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In the background, a WWI helmet from England and an Army hat from WWII. In the foreground, is a blue hat from the Air Force circa 1950s.

Earl’s personal equipment – billy club, holster and handcuffs from his service as a military police officer.

Top shelf includes a WWII pith helmet, and a United States Army dress uniform hat. Bottom shelf holds an old turn-of-the-century Army SpanishAmerican War Era hat.

WWII Army chest that a soldier used in the barracks and authentic Civil War boots

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Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

Patriotic music plays in the man cave as Earl enjoys his collection.

EARL KENNEDY Continued

can’t believe how dirty and filthy I got.”

Earl remembers his time during the war clearly. “As a platoon leader, I was not supposed to lead the way searching for booby traps but I did. I started up a ditch, very cautiously, when I heard metal under my feet. My whole life flashed before me.

I froze. I had stepped on what they called a ‘Bouncing Betty.’ When you step on it, the plunger goes down and when you take the foot off, the plunger goes up and the body of the mine goes up 3-4 feet in the air.

Guys came over and used a machete to keep it down. I don’t remember much because I was trying to maintain my composure.

Fortunately, it was a dud because water had rushed through and rusted it up.”

We came across a large cache of ammunition and rifles. We couldn’t carry it out because we were in the middle of the jungle, miles from civilization. It took seven cases of TNT to blow it up. It leveled the jungle like a football field. You could see big tree stumps fly up. Our discovery was reported in the Stars & Stripes.”

Earl finished his tour in Long Binh Army post where he became a military policeman. One of his last memories was when the Viet Cong rolled up in tanks during the April offense of 1972.

“Many of our men had returned home,” he said. “I had a few men, some South Vietnamese, cooks, medical people and some anti-artillery. They had a lot of men.

Fortunately, the war was de-escalating and nothing happened. But they rolled in want-

ing to show that they could.”

After returning to Fort Campbell in Kentucky/Tennessee as an infantry officer and company executive officer, Earl tried civilian life, then went into the Army Reserve Unit as a military police officer.

He retired as a major in military police and reserves.

In 1992, Earl thought he’d be headed to the Gulf War when military officials denied his retirement request. “I was ready to go to the Gulf War,” he said. “Then one day, I went to my mailbox and there were the retirement papers.”

Using his leadership skills, Earl oversaw hundreds of employees in safety and security for a West Virginia coal company.

When he retired early, he started his own company, which dealt in gas, oil and coal.

At 72, he still dabbles in business.

Earl joined a number of military groups – Disabled American Veterans; Combat

Infantryman’s Association (CIA); Veterans Administration; American Legion; VFW; AmVets; and Sons of the American Revolution. With the CIA, he was a national commander from 2009-11.

He used to get a number of nightmares and flashbacks from the war; but a support group with fellow soldiers makes listening and talking easier.

“It really helps to know there are others you can communicate with,” Earl said.

“I didn’t want to miss a meeting. It’s so helpful because you’re not the lone guy on a totem pole.”

Despite the hardships, Earl Kennedy has no regrets. He believes the experience also made him what he is today.

“It turned a kid into a man,” he said.

“I was lucky to be one. I always worked in management. I ran my own business. I don’t think I could’ve done that without being in the military.” n

As National Commander of Combat Infantryman’s Association, Earl had the honor of presenting a wreath at The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. He has been privileged to do so several times.

Award from the Sons of the American Revolution.

He has several grandparents that served in the Revolutionary War. He received this award for his service in Vietnam.

Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

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Brings a Blast from the Past!

B Y LY N N S C H N E I D E R D I R E C T O R O F M A R K E T I N G & C O M M U N I C AT I O N S

Bingo became popular in the United States during the early twentieth century and, although it is a simple game, it continues to be popular today. Here at Shell Point, Bingo became the perfect activity to host during the days of social distancing when residents were spending more time in their homes. Live Bingo was broadcasted from the Shell Point TV Studio and Wednesday soon became “Bingo Day” as residents at home had the opportunity to play the game for fun and prizes.

Laura Slack, director of resCarol Sperlak ident operations, was the weekly bebops in the host and each week she had a 1950s style. special mystery guest from Shell Point’s staff. Gabriela Kelly helped answer the phone line as residents enjoyed decorating the TV studio. called in their winning Bingo numbers.

Hundreds of Shell Point residents “This was a lot of fun for both residents and staff,” said Laura. In addition tuned in each week to watch the game and to the one hour of live Bingo games, each to try to win a prize. “It was a lot of fun,” week had a different theme. There was said Barbara Milligan of Periwinkle. “I did Retro Week, Americana, Hollywood and not win anything, but Laura Slack was more. Staff dressed up in costumes and hilarious and made the show fun to watch.”

SPTV Manager Dave Nixon and Dan Philgreen shoot the live broadcast in the SPTV studio.

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Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

Laura Slack was an enthusiastic Bingo host.

Gabriela Kelly answered the Bingo phone hotline.

The SPTV live broadcast team (L to R): Laura Slack, Jami Smith, Dan Philgreen, Ashley Robbin, Michelle Emmett, Dave Nixon, Carol Sperlak, Gabriela Kelly and Rich Nation.

Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

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Kathy Erbel birding

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Bay-breasted Warbler

Swainson’s Thrush

Cape May Warbler

Migration Comes To Shell Point

BY D OT T Y M O R R I S O N (C E L L A N A )

Every spring and fall, birders in the Southwest Florida area “flock” to Sanibel, or parks in Cape Coral or Naples, when a storm forces birds migrating across the Gulf to seek shelter and food at their first landfall. In my 12 years of living and birding at Shell Point, I had never seen those migratory species here – but this year, of all years, it happened!

On Thursday, April 30, I was on my lanai in Cellana, looking to see if the morning rain had stopped. I noticed two little birds in the Cuban laurel between my lanai and Sand Dollar and grabbed my binocu-

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Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

lars, expecting to see local birds. Instead, I was astounded by finding two bay-breasted warblers – birds which only occur in Florida during migration.

I quickly grabbed my binoculars and camera and headed outside, where I soon spotted a male rose-breasted grosbeak. I decided to check the trees in the park by the Orchid House and what I found caused me to grab my phone and call fellow birders Malcolm and Sue Harpham (Harbor Court) and Kathy and David Erbel (Tellidora).

Over the next three days, we spotted 14 migratory species, 12 of which I have

never seen at Shell Point. The little figs in the laurel trees provided the nourishment, the mangroves across the canal provided the shelter, and the weather pattern, with winds coming from the north for three days, meant that we had hours and hours to enjoy the spectacle.

During the weeks prior to April 30, I had increased my time walking outdoors.

On those walks, I had become better acquainted with other residents interested in birds. Malcolm and Sue Harpham have been well-known birders in the area for many years. While living on Sanibel,

Cedar Waxwing

SPOTTED!

Male Indigo Bunting

4 American Redstart 4 Bay-breasted Warbler 4 Blackpol Warbler 4 Cape May Warbler 4 Cedar Waxwing 4 Gray-cheeked Thrush 4 Indigo Bunting 4 Northern Parula 4 Red-eyed Vireo 4 Rose-breasted Grosbeak 4 Ruby-throated Hummingbird 4 Scarlet Tanager 4 Summer Tanager 4 Swainson’s Thrush

Scarlet Tanager

Gray-cheeked Thrush

Female Rose-breasted Grosbeak

they had been active volunteers at the J.N. “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge, leading weekly birding tours of the refuge, as well as training volunteers. They are also active with the Sanibel-Captiva Audubon Chapter, leading bird outings and participating in the Christmas Bird Count.

On walks during March and April, Kathy and David Erbel had introduced themselves to me (from a responsible distance). While living in Minnesota, they became interested in birdlife in that state and wanted to point out a juvenile loon that they had spotted on the Caloosahatchee.

We discussed other birds we were seeing on

Male Rose-breasted Grosbeak

The Island, such as an Eastern screech owl near their apartment.

When the migratory flocks arrived, I was excited to share the news with these birding friends. For three days, beginning on April 30, the migrating birds ate their fill of the figs and bugs in the tops of the Cuban laurels while the five of us stood in the grass below, eyes straining, necks aching, arms weighed down with binoculars and cameras, spotting and identifying the many species. Normally birders will crowd around the person who spots a bird, which can be difficult to see behind leaves and branches. Masks and correct

Female Summer Tanager

social distancing made this a different kind of birding experience.

Iver Brook (Royal Bonnet), a wellknown birding expert for many years, was astounded to see my photographs. “I’ve occasionally seen a warbler on The Island,” he said, “but your experience is like nothing that has happened in my 18 years.”

We will all remember the spring of 2020 for its many changes to our lives. But I will treasure the memories and photographs of those days at the end of April, when a flock of migratory birds landed at Shell Point. It’s a special blessing that came literally from the heavens.

Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

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Jay Bubb A Heart of Purple Jay Bubb of Parkwood is a member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, a decoration given to combat-wounded veterans serving in the line of duty.

As a Purple Heart recipient, Jay went through a variety of emotions before, during and after the Vietnam War.

BY CRAIG HANDEL

“It’s an honor that most soldiers don’t want to earn. Many were awarded posthumously because they were killed in action,” Jay pointed out. Those are the real heroes.

In Jay’s case, the Purple Heart was awarded because of a combat wound that took him out of action. “I remember when it happened. I was directing fire and leading my platoon. The shot that wounded me came out of nowhere. The medic pushed me down and told me to stay there. I was very angry and wanted to get back up and continue fighting.” While recovering, Jay didn’t fully realize the significance of the Purple Heart but has since become a bit of a history buff on this topic.

“George Washington, as Commander of the Continental Army marched to a 14

Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

cantonment in Windsor, New York after Yorktown to spend the winter there. He wanted to reward enlisted men for gallantry in combat. In 1782, he gave the Badge of Military Merit to the first three recipients.

Although never officially abolished, the badge was not used again until after WWI when General Douglas McArthur, in his role as Army Chief of staff under Roosevelt, decided to revive the Badge of Military Merit on the bicentennial of Washington’s birth. He renamed it the Purple Heart because the original badge was heartshaped and made from purple material with the word ‘Merit’ embroidered on it. During WWII, the Purple Heart was initially only given to members of the Army, but later Continued on next page

Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

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ded

emy

f an

med

A HEART OF PURPLE Continued

the Marines, Navy and Air Force were also included. The new design boasts a bust and profile of George Washington.”

Duty to Serve

1968 was a turbulent year with riots in the streets and on many college campuses.

Jay was in the midst of finishing an MBA at Rutgers and was subject to the draft when he decided to volunteer and apply for officer candidate school. “I felt it was the right thing to do. An obligation is an obligation.”

Jay took the oath on November 6, 1968, and was sent to Fort Dix in New Jersey, then to Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri before becoming an infantry officer candidate at Fort Benning, Georgia, graduating in September of 1969. He chose Ranger training over Airborne but an ankle injury prevented him from acquiring the coveted Ranger tab. Jay took on the role of TAC officer, which led to a staff role as a battalion adjutant and later as a platoon leader.

The Benning class still gets together periodically and it has been a great connection for all these years. Next was survival training at “jungle school” in the Panama Canal.

From there, he boarded a plane for Vietnam where the weather is “10 times worse than a humid day in Florida!”

Platoon Leader

Arriving in Vietnam in 1970, Jay replaced a platoon leader who had been killed in action. He faced two major challenges. First of all, “A platoon leader’s life expectancy was 24 minutes” he said.

“They were churning through them like crazy.” In addition to that, he would be in charge of 22 men in a war zone who were skittish because their previous leader had been killed. Jay worked closely with his Platoon Sergeant Thompson who had 10 months experience on the ground in Vietnam. “I told him to handle the men and I would handle everything else. This included always knowing where we were.

When we found the enemy in the middle of nowhere this was critical information so I could call in for backup support.

This skill saved my life. On September 15, 1970, while on patrol in Song Be near the 16

Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

Jay Bubb proudly displays many of his military awards in an impressive shadow box in his home.

Cambodian border, we engaged in a fire fight New Jersey on the site of the former Somerville with the Vietnamese. I was hit on the right Armory. It features a beautiful monument to the shoulder blade where the neck joins the shoulder Military Order of the Purple Heart. Since its dedblade. I later found out that if the round had hit ication in July of 2006, the American Legion and 3/8" closer to the spinal column, I would have Merchant Marines also added their monuments been much more severely injured. How lucky am and the site is regularly used for Memorial Day I! I was also hit with a tracer round that caused and Veterans Day events. “We set the model,” phospherous burns that eventually needed about Ted said. “It took a lot of teamwork on the squad three months of treatment and recovery before to get this done. It reminded me of our time in I could return to active duty back at Fort Dix. Vietnam; different objectives but a common proWhile on the ground, I called in our coordinates cess.” The group also collected funds by soliciting and was hauled up into a helicopter. The war was shoppers at supermarkets to support charitable over for me. A few days after arriving at a MASH activities such as providing parties for disabled unit in Bien Hou, my commanding officer came vets at the local VA hospital and helping other needy vets whenever possiover to my bed, put the ble. “We support wakes and Purple Heart on my pillow The Purple Heart is burials, wives and families and shook my hand. Shortly awarded to those who of soldiers,” Jay said. The after that, I was transferred have been wounded group is a closeknit “band to Camp Zama, Japan for suror killed in any action of brothers.” gery. Eventually, I ended up These actions led to a at a Navy hospital in New against an enemy of the handful of New Jersey townYork for the final stages of United States or as a ships and counties deciding burn treatment.” result of an act of any to become Purple Heart The physical scars on such enemy or opposing communities. Jay was happy Jay’s shoulder blade and armed forces. to find out that Lee County back remain with him. So is a Purple Heart county and does his love of German Shepherds. After he was wounded, it was one Fort Myers is a Purple Heart city. Nearby Cape of these dogs who pinpointed his location so he Coral is also a Purple Heart community. When he came to Shell Point, Jay became friends with could be rescued.

In 1973, President Nixon ordered a ceasefire his Parkwood neighbor, Earl Kennedy. Earl is curand we withdrew our troops. Returning soldiers rently working with Senator Rick Scott to become were actively harassed, Jay remembers. Some a Purple Heart recipient himself. Earl introduced college professors failed vets in their class just Jay to the Combat Infantryman Association because they were veterans. “When I was looking and they attended an event in Fort Myers in for a job after the Army, the employment consul- early March before the coronavirus interrupted tant I was working with told me not to put my all of our lives. “Jay is a combat veteran and I service history on my resume. I did put it on and know what an infantryman is and what he did,” was hired by PNC Bank where I was involved Earl said. “I can testify to what kind of man he in lending, sales and finance. After working my is because I know what he had go through. We way up to Senior Vice President, I retired in made a common bond right away and have talked about things that not a lot of others understand.”

December of 2004.

Jay wears his Purple Heart proudly and his relationships with his fellow soldiers are as strong as ever. “I don’t regret a moment I spent in the Army. I met some of the finest people I’ve ever In 1990, Jay joined the Military Order of The met in my life. I learned to deal with all kinds Purple Heart in New Jersey where he became of issues. You learn to get along with people and close friends with fellow recipient, Ted Dima. Ted what it takes to be an effective leader. You become describes Jay as “very easy to get along with. We part of something larger than yourself and learn had a lot in common due to being wounded in discipline. You learn to make sure the people who combat and we both loved golf.” Jay and Ted each work for you get fed before you do.

Jay is helping to start a Shell Point Veterans served as Commander of Chapter 27 of the New Jersey Purple Hearts. The group is proud of many Group led by resident Jim Stapleton, a retired accomplishments including getting approval Army Colonel and West Point graduate. Both for a $2 million, 22,000 square foot veteran’s are looking forward to a time when Shell Point’s plaza that was built in downtown Somerville, veterans can get together again. n

The Purple Heart Organization

Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

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Protect Your Skin from the Summer Sun B Y R O B Y N C H U R C H , S A LO N & S PA M A N AG E R

We often associate a bronzy glow with a healthy appearance, but over time, sun exposure actually accelerates the signs of aging and puts you at risk for skin cancer.

Sunlight travels to earth in a combination of visible and invisible rays, and many of these rays are made up of ultraviolet (UV) light. When UV rays hit your skin cells, they throw off body processes that affect the appearance of your skin and the growth rate of your skin cells.

There are two types of UV rays. Longer UV rays are called UVA rays, while shorter rays are called UVB rays. Excessive exposure to UVB rays can lead to sunburn and surface damage to the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). UVA rays are longer and can penetrate deeper into the thickest layer of the skin (dermis), resulting in more permanent damage. IR wavelengths manifest as heat on the skin’s surface and penetrate into the subcutaneous layer of the skin.

While UVB rays are less prevalent mornings and evenings, UVA rays are always present. It is important to use a broad spectrum sunscreen with protection from both UVB and UVA rays. Be sure to apply sunscreen every morning, regardless of what your plans are for the day. Even

five-minute increments of sun exposure build up over time.

Your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight is based on three main factors, your age, skin tone and the climate or season in which you are spending time outdoors. As you age, it becomes harder for the skin to repair itself and, over time, UV damage can affect the skin’s connective tissue. Skin tone plays a significant role as those with fair skin are highly sensitive to UV light and more likely to burn. Those with darker skin pigment are less likely to burn as they have a higher number of melanocytes, as melanin helps block damaging UV rays. In the middle of summer the UV index in Florida is very high while in the winter the UV index can drop to the medium risk range.

Two Types of Sunscreen There are two types of sunscreen, physical and chemical. Physical (mineral) sunscreen reflect and block the sun’s rays before they penetrate the skin. Physical sunscreens will contain titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide, as these are the only two filters approved by the FDA for sun protection. These two ingredients are least likely to cause adverse skin reactions for those with sensitive skin.

Chemical sunscreen contains carbon based organic compounds designed to absorb UV rays upon contact and disperse them as heat. Chemical sunscreens tend to be thinner, making them easier to spread evenly across the skin and

leave less residue. Chemical sunscreen must be applied 20 minutes before sun exposure, as it’s not effective immediately.

Obagi Physical and Chemical Sunscreens are broad spectrum to protect against UVB and UVA rays, have a sun protection factor (SPF) of 50, and are water resistant. If you are in the direct sunlight for extended periods of time, it is important to reapply every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends an SPF of 30 or greater for protecting your skin from the sun. In addition, they recommend seeking shade between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., wearing a wide-brimmed hat plus UV blocking sunglasses, and every month conducting a self-check from head to toe for changes in your skin followed by an annual exam with a dermatologist.

Don’t Sizzle This Summer!

Free Gift of a travel size hairspray with the purchase of Obagi Sunscreen.

Offer expires 8/31/20

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Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

Make a Splash and Get Fit in the Water!

BY M I C H E L L E TO M P K I N S , WELLNESS MANAGER

If you are looking for a way to stay fit and cool in these hot, summer months, why not get in the pool?

According to Fitness Coordinator Melanie Brod, “Water exercise is great for all fitness levels. In the water your workout is what you make it; putting more power into it with bigger motions creates a more challenging workout.” There’s no doubt that it’s a safe way to get in a workout without the risk of injury or falling. The buoyancy and resistance of the water provides a low-impact option to land exercise. The cardiovascular system can be challenged through various exercises including pool walking, jogging, and of course swimming

laps. Because the resistance is different in the water than on land, you can build muscular strength using pool noodles or no equipment at all. Fitness Supervisor Debbie Stapleton shares, “In the water, you get multidirectional resistance, which is great for anyone with joint issues.”Another benefit is enhanced balance and coordination while

exercising in an environment that puts significantly less stress on joints – meaning painfree exercise for a longer duration. Whether you are a beginner or seasoned participant of aquatic exercise, there’s no reason not to get in the pool to exercise. Put on your hat and sunscreen to try the following exercises in any of the pools at Shell Point.

THREE AQUA EXERCISES FOR TONING AND STRENGTHENING A One-Legged Balance Act

Plank in the Pool Many people know that “planks” are a popular core-strengthener on land and require a good amount of abdominal strength to hold for a period of time. However, planks in the water can also challenge the abdominals in a different way.

How to do it: Stand on the pool floor.

Hold a “noodle” vertically in both hands.

Press it straight down into the water and lean forward until your body is on an even incline, keeping your head out of the water.

Try to keep yourself stable for 1 to 2 minutes and really feel it in the core.

Try a Cardio Jog Get the heart pumping during this version of jogging. By creating several currents in the pool and then running through them, you’ll strengthen all your core stabilizing muscles. Be sure to jog with proper alignment with ears, shoulders and hips in one vertical line; this will enable your core to be challenged as well as your cardiovascular system.

How to do it: Jog in a zigzag pattern from one end of the pool to the other, then quickly turn around and go back through all the currents.

Strengthen your legs and core by balancing on one leg with less risk of falling.

How to do it: Standing in waist-high water, lift your left knee up and place the middle of a noodle under your left foot.

Keep your hands by your side and balance with your left foot on the noodle for one minute. Then move your left knee out to the side and balance for another minute.

Switch legs and repeat with the right knee lifted and the right foot resting on the noodle. For an advanced challenge, lift both arms up over your head as you balance.

Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

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Out & About Drive Up & Drop Off Food Drive

Marcia Sund helps to receive the food items.

Once again, The Village Church is sponsoring a food drive for the South Fort Myers Food Pantry, but due to the pandemic, this one is a little different. According to Associate Pastor Don Pullen, “We decided to make this a simple, contact free food drive. Residents can just pull up to the table outside and drop off their canned food.”

The Drive Up and Drop Off Food Drive runs from Thursday, June 18 through Thursday, July 2. So far, more than 350 cans of food have been received. “There will still be a couple of days in July before we take the food to the food bank.”

Jan Emrich helps to unload a trunkful of food at the Drive Up and Drop Off Food Drive.

Residents Bob and Jan Barger of Junonia stopped by with several cans of food.

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Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

Associate Pastor Don Pullen and Jan Emrich promote the Drive Up and Drop Off Food Drive for the South Fort Myers Food Pantry.

Prayers for Shell Point During this challenging time, it helps to know that people are praying. The Village Church recently put up a banner to encourage Shell Point residents and employees. As always, church staff are available to talk to or to lend a helping hand. The Village Church staff (L to R): Karen Solomon, Luis Lopez, Marcia Sund, Jan Emrich, Pastor Andy Hawkins, Associate Pastor Don Pullen and Jon Lough.

Watering the Garden

Chain Gang Wristbands are given to residents and staff as they are screened each day as a Covid precaution. Carol and David Krafft of The Estuary have a collection of more than 160 colorful wrist bands, which they have crafted into a “daisy chain.�

Pictured right is Jacquie Boyce of Rosemont turned hers into a colorful necklace.

Bobbi Dill of Periwinkle waters the butterfly habitat to ensure a lsuh environment for Shell Point butterflies.

Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

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Birthday of the Century!

B Y LY N N S C H N E I D E R , D I R E C T O R O F M A R K E T I N G & C O M M U N I C A T I O N S

June’s son sent one hundred Birthdays may come and go colorful roses. every year, but it’s not often you get to celebrate 100 years! the Korean War, the space race, June Lockhart of Junonia was the Cold War, Vietnam and so recently surprised by the Resident many more.

Programming team with a birthday June has been a resident of celebration for her 100th birthday Shell Point for 20 years. Early in her namesake month of June. on, she quickly became an inteThe staff brought forth balloons, gral part of the arts at Shell well wishes, serenaded her with a Point. June joined the Pottery song and a cupcake, and cheered Studio shortly after becoming her as friends in her building a resident. “The pottery studio looked on. Her apartment was already established when quickly overflowed with flowI came here,” said June. The ers, including a bouquet of 100 original founders were Jane roses from her son.

Hicks and Undie Graham. But But that’s not the only celeJune quickly became indisbration that took place that day. pensable to the studio’s operA birthday parade was organized ation. “I fit in here because

by June’s church, Iona Hope it had everything to offer Episcopal to celebrate the occathat I like,” said June. “It has sion. 50 cars lined up to parade interesting, talented people slowly by as they honked and and always needs organizing, waved to the birthday girl. The which I love to do.” June also parade had extra meaning for helped teach new residents June because each car helped The Resident Programming team surprised June on her with no pottery experience raise money for a local food panbig day with balloons, a banner, cake and a song as how to get started. June pointed try. More than $5,000 was raised residents in her building looked on. to a shelf that contained coffee to help feed families in this area.

“This birthday was a birthday to beat all Johnson, Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, mugs, small vases, animal figures, small Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, George plates and other simple items. “Beginners birthdays,” said June.

June was born in 1920, when Woodrow H. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, are often intimidated to get started, but I Wilson was president, and she has seen Barack Obama, and Donald Trump. June show them these items and tell them that every president since then: Warren Harding, vividly remembers so many exciting changes they will be able to make any one of them Calvin Coolidge, Herbert Hoover, Franklin that have occurred throughout the past 100 on their first day.”

Happy birthday to Shell Point’s Roosevelt, Harry S. Truman, Dwight D. years. She also remembers moments in hisEisenhower, John F. Kennedy, Lyndon tory such as the Depression, World War II, newest centenarian!

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Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

One Skein

Yarn Challenge

B Y LY N N S C H N E I D E R , D I R E C T O R O F M A R K E T I N G & C O M M U N I C A T I O N S

In March, while Shell Point residents were practicing social distancing, Jane Hoden, a resident of Oakmont and the volunteer leader of Knitter’s Anonymous (KA), had an idea that would give residents a practical way to utilize some of their time and talents to benefit others. She proposed a One Skein Yarn Challenge to all residents who liked to knit or crochet with the understanding that all items made would be donated to one of KA’s charities.

“There are thousands of things that can be made from one skein, which is about 220 yards of yarn,” said Jane.

Residents could use their own yarn or a skein from the KA yarn stash. Patterns were found on the Internet and in doz-

ens of books maintained in KA’s resource library. Most crafters already had their own needles or hooks but KA had an ample supply to loan.

The timeframe for the Challenge was one month. “Residents submitted 36 items for the Challenge,” said Jane. The donations were attractive as well as varied and included infant and children’s hats, scarves, children’s sweaters, booties, arm warmers, dish cloths and toys.

The entries were judged for creativity and skill by guild-level residents Pat Meredith and Joyce Crone, both of Sundial.

The three winners were Joan Watson of Sand Dollar, Lois Forsythe of Lakewood and Jane Isebrand of Parkwood, who each

received a $25 gift certificate to Michaels.

“It was wonderful to have people get involved in this activity, which allowed them to be creative and productive while also producing items that would benefit worthy causes,” said Jane. Knitters Anonymous is a ministry of The Village Church. Items crafted by the group are donated to five outof-state charities including United Indian Missions International, Amnion Pregnancy Center, Envision Atlanta, Christmas at Sea and Collaboration of Friends. Items donated included 64 hats (baby, child and adult), 62 sweaters (baby, child and adult) and 26 blankets (baby and adult). In addition, KA also included scarves for adults and children, dish cloths, booties, infant gowns and toys.

Jane Hoden was delighted when residents submitted 36 items for the challenge.

Joyce Crone (left) and Pat Meredith (right) both of Sundial, served as judges of the entries One Skein Yarn Challenge. Joyce and Meredith enjoyed the opportunity to see so many fine examples of “yarnmanship.”

Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

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Staying Connected: A Challenge of Present Times

B Y A N D R E A G U T I E R R E Z , H E A LT H Y L I V I N G C O O R D I N A T O R

Without a doubt our daily lives have not been the same for some time.

Living through COVID-19 has presented us with many challenges ranging from health, finances, change in routine, and isolation. We have found ourselves living in a strange time where we have been encouraged to stay home in order to stay safe, while realizing that it is not how we want to continue to live life.

At this point in the journey, many have and continue to experience the hardships of social distancing.

This major change in our lives has introduced new ways of doing things. Some have stepped back in time to communicate by handwriting letters, calling more often or calling for the first time in years.

Others are learning more about the latest technology in order to stay in

touch. These alternatives still are not fully satisfying to our soul’s desire to seek connection and community.

Social distancing has brought us a sense of gratitude for the things we once might have taken for granted. It helps us recognize that staying connected goes beyond physically participating in activi-

ties or routines and teaches us the importance it plays in our happiness, intimacy with others and overall quality of life.

While we may not know what the new normal will be or for how long we will have to keep our distance, we can hold on to the lessons we have learned. We can continue to fortify our connections and relationships in new, creative ways, remembering that social distancing does not mean social isolation and making the best of what we have.

“We weren’t designed to be alone.

We are relational beings. No matter how introspective or shy or private we might be, we are all designed for community. We are meant to benefit from one another… That’s why God himself called an intervention.” – Judah Smith from How’s Your Soul?

Magicians

Club Now Forming “The art of a magician is to create wonder.

If we live with a sense of wonder, our lives become filled with joy.”

– Doug Henning Have you been fighting the urge to saw your partner in half…and then re-assemble them? Good news! A magicians club is forming, the Illusions Magic Club at Shell Point.

This club is for anyone who has an interest in the art of illusion, from beginners to those who are expert at pulling rabbits out of hats. We’ll share tricks and tips, learn new magic effects and polish presentation skills. Members may also have opportunities to perform on campus and in the community. For more information contact Warrin Meyers at 239-770-6016 warrinmeyers@themagicclub.community.

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Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

TRIB NOTES

Legacy Gallery’s Inaugural Show to Honor Residents

BY MICHAEL WEISS, FINE & PERFORMING ARTS MANAGER

When the Tribby Arts Center opens, three members of Shell Point’s creative community will be honored with the first Tribby Arts Center Award for Distinguished Service in the Arts, Mike Klein, June Lockhart, and Herb Sklar.

The award is given in recognition of their leadership and longevity in Shell Point’s arts community.

As part of this honor, an exhibition of their works will be the inaugural show in the Tribby’s Legacy Gallery on the second floor.

Mike Klein

Physicist Mike Klein (Nautilus) worked with the Army Corps of Engineers in Fort Belvoir, Virginia, where he was on the team that developed night vision goggles.

Mike and his wife retired to Sanibel Island, where the first floor of their home served as his pottery studio. In addition to serving two years as Sanibel’s Mayor, Mike helped establish BIG ARTS, the center of the Sanibel arts community.

Who or what most influenced you to become an artist?

My father and brother influenced me.

I don’t consider myself an artist. I consider myself a craftsperson. My father did shoe Continued on next page Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

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TRIB NOTES repair. There was a workbench in the basement with tools neatly hanging over it. He and my brother taught me how to use those tools. Growing up during the Depression, we made our own toys. We would scrounge up materials and make the things we played with.

How has your work developed over the years?

My wife got me started in pottery. She

took a class, and then I took one. I built a small kiln and started making dishes and all sorts of little things.

I eventually bought a bigger kiln. Then my wife, who was a weaver, and I started showing at craft fairs around Virginia, where we lived.

When I retired to Sanibel, I continued making pottery and sold in a shop there. When I moved to Shell Point, I got involved in the pottery studio here.

In one sentence what advice would you give someone who is thinking about trying

his or her hand at art?

Go for it.

June Lockhart

June Lockhart (Harbor Court) is a graduate of Kingwood School Cranbrook and Wheaton College in Massachusetts. She attended classes at the Cranbrook Academy of Art while at Kingwood and also during summers while attending Wheaton. The distinguished sculptor Marshal Fredricks (1908-1998) mentored June, while the well-known sculptor Carl Milles (18751955) also influenced her; both men were resident sculptors at Cranbrook.

Workshops at Chautauqua Institution, Penland School of Crafts, and Haystack School of Crafts also provided June’s learning opportunities.

She founded the clay program at the Canton Art Museum, Canton, Ohio, where she was a trustee and contributed many lifesize paper sculptures. She also created sculptures for public places, including a brass eagle for Ashland University in Ohio.

Who or what most influenced you to become an artist?

I was very fortunate to have gone to the Cranbrook School in Michigan. There was an art school there, and students started art training from the 7th or 8th grade.

From an early age I knew I wanted to be a sculptor.

How has your work developed over the years?

I have gone from one thing to another, and worked with a lot of different materials: clay, bronze, paper (I once made a 26' tall Statue of Liberty out of paper), and even puppets.

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In one sentence what advice would you give someone who is thinking about trying his or her hand at art?

Go for it.

Herb Sklar

Herb Sklar (Eagles Preserve) attended NYC’s High School of Art & Design, and Pratt Institute. After graduating he worked for major Manhattan advertising agencies as art and creative director. He then started his own agency and won more than 50 awards for outstanding designs in print and television media. Herb has displayed his black-and-white photographs in a one-man show at the Berkshire Museum in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. His work has also been on display at the Alliance for the Arts in Fort Myers among other places.

Who or what most influenced you to become an artist?

When I was 12, my 18-year-old cousin, Dorothy, who went to Music and Art High School in Manhattan, thought I drew pretty well. She decided it was time for me to go to a real museum. One Saturday

we took the train from the Bronx to Manhattan to the Museum of Modern Art. There was a huge banner hanging down the side of the museum that read, Monet. I had no idea what that meant.

Inside she sat me down in front of a very large painting called Hide-And-Seek.

She told me to keep staring at it and let her know what I saw. It was nothing more than a big tree. As I stared at it I noticed there was a child in the tree. Then I saw another child, and another. I got so excited that all these kids were hiding in the tree. It was so intense and creative.

On the way home I realized that what I wanted to do for the rest of my life was be an artist.

How has your work evolved over the years?

I went from commercial to fine art to photography to experimental with digital prints.

I had a long and successful career in

commercial art in the advertising business.

When I retired, the commercial part of my life was over and that 12-year-old kid inside of me finally got a chance to do fine arts.

I tried almost every medium and subject. I painted in oil and acrylic, tried pastels and colored pencils. I discovered that I loved doing portraits and oil-painted every friend and relative who would let me.

My love of photography also came back, and I did a photo show of portraits taken with an antique camera.

For the exhibit at the Tribby I will be showing a series of 20 digital portraits. I painted them on my mini iPad. Each one took about 40 hours to complete.

In one sentence what advice would you give someone who is thinking about trying his or her hand at art.

Do it.

Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

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Resident Programming

We Are Shell Point Strong

Jeff Martin and Peter Burt

Shell Point employees are stronger than ever when working together!

We recently highlighted the unconquerable spirit of our employees during Shell Point Strong Day.

Amy Nicholson

Mauricio Morrow

Paul Tison

Steve Lake

Jaydon Caro James Jacobs

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Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

Concepcion Cruz Morales

Mark Shilling

Carrie Sharkey

Shane Scott Julie Davey and Jordan Meiser Todd Glaesmer and Watson Bissainthe MaryLou Marcial

Doug Potts

Kevin May

Beverly Hill

Golf Course maintenance

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The Secure Act and You

How New Tax Legislation May Affect Shell Point Residents B Y J E F F C O R Y, L E G A C Y F O U N D A T I O N

The Setting Every Community Up For Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act came into effect on January 1, 2020.

With it came many questions for both individuals planning for retirement and current retirees.

Passed as a part of a significant spending bill before the year’s end, the SECURE Act has given communities the most important retirement legislation since 2006. Changes could have an impact on you, while others may affect the beneficiaries who you name in your plans.

ing RMD’s from your IRA from 70 ½ to 72 years-old for those born after July 1, 1949.

3. IRA beneficiary rules have changed.

Traditionally, beneficiaries of IRA’s could elect to take distributions over the course of their lifetime. This offered significant tax savings for beneficiaries. The SECURE Act retains this option for spousal beneficiaries, but repeals this option for non-spousal IRA beneficiaries. Non-spousal beneficiaries will now be required to withdraw the entire amount within 10 years.

What Remains

Key Takeaways

1. You can contribute to your IRA longer. Previously, you could not contribute to your IRA after reaching age 70 ½. Today, more Americans are working past that age.

The SECURE Act repeals this age limit, allowing people more time to save, as long as they are working.

2. The required minimum distribution (RMD) age has changed. The SECURE Act modified the age that you must begin tak30

Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

If you are age 70 ½ or older, you can continue to make a tax-free gift to a qualified charitable organization. These gifts, known as a qualified charitable distribution (QCD), allow you to transfer up to $100,000 a year from your IRA to charity without paying income tax on the distribution. Your required minimum distribution can make up a portion of this qualified charitable distribution. Your gift to charity can be used today, allowing you the opportunity

and enjoyment of seeing the difference your gift is making.

Review Your Current Plans

Now would be a terrific time to speak with your financial and legal professionals to see if the SECURE Act will impact your current retirement and estate plans.

You can review your plans (including beneficiary designations) to insure your wishes and goals remain on track.

If you would like to learn more about making a qualified charitable distribution (QCD), or naming Shell Point as a beneficiary of your IRA, please contact Jeff Cory at the Legacy Foundation at (239) 4668484. Naming Shell Point as a beneficiary of a retirement plan qualifies for membership in the Shell Point Legacy Society.

Shell Point and the Legacy Foundation do not provide legal or tax advice. The information above is meant to be general in nature. Please consult with your professional legal and financial advisors regarding your specific situation.

The Celebration Conundrum

BY REV. ANDREW HAWKINS, P H . D. , S E N I OR PASTOR, T H E V I LLAG E CH URCH

It was the 4th of July and we were all in Washington, D.C. – Jean and I, our son Matt, daughter Kate, and their special friends, Crystal and Brad. We took the Metro downtown early in the morning to get a place on the west lawn of the Capitol where we could watch the evening concert, “A Capitol Fourth” broadcast by PBS every year.

We had done the 4th on the Mall before with our kids, but we were looking forward to sharing the unique experience with Matt and Kate’s respective girl and boyfriends. It was always an exciting celebration. The Mall packed with people. Food trucks and fiddles and frisbees and flags and fireworks – all day long. And what better place to be on the

4th of July than surrounded by the Capitol, the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, the Jefferson Memorial, the National Gallery of Art, and the Smithsonian.

It rained.

And rained and rained and rained some more. Early and often. Thunderstorms interrupted by downpours interrupted by thunderstorms. All day long. The most rain in Washington, D.C. on the 4th of July in 25 years. We were getting drenched. It was hard to celebrate.

I remember going into the Air and Space Museum just to get a break from the weather. We bought tickets to go to a movie in the Planetarium and promptly fell asleep.

It was a great place for a good nap. I had

never paid for a nap before.

Sometimes it’s hard to celebrate.

Perhaps the 4th of July this year is one of those times. Our nation is in turmoil.

The economy is troubled. COVID persists. An election is looming. Politics are contentious. And even if we wanted to, we’re not allowed to gather in ways to which we are accustomed. So celebrating is tough.

It was hard for Israel to celebrate at times. “By the rivers of Babylon, There we sat down, yea, we wept when we remembered Zion. ... How shall we sing the LORD’s song in a foreign land?” (Psalm 137.1, 4, NKJV) They were a displaced people, exiled, refugees. Their circumstances made celebration a challenge.

Nevertheless, somehow Israel found it possible, even compelling, to celebrate – in spite of the exile: “I will sing of the mercies of the LORD forever; With my mouth will I make known Your faithfulness to all generations.” (Psalm 89.1, NKJV; a psalm written during the exile) Why would we celebrate in the midst

of these circumstances? Two reasons come to mind.

First, for thanksgiving. “... in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

(1 Thessalonians 5.18, NKJV) Israel got it. From another psalm of the exile: “Lord, You have been favorable to Your land ... You have forgiven the iniquity of Your people; You have covered all their sin. You have taken away all Your wrath; You have turned from the fierceness of Your anger.” (Psalm 85.1-3, NKJV) Israel understood the need for thanksgiving, even in the midst of challenging times. We can celebrate our nation’s birthday because we are genuinely thankful for the blessings of our national heritage.

And second, in faith. Celebration is an act of faith. We trust God to continue to provide for us as He has in the past. Another psalm from the exile: “Truth shall spring out of the earth, And righteousness shall look down from heaven. Yes, the LORD will give what is good; And our land will yield its increase.

Righteousness will go before Him, And shall make His footsteps our pathway.” (Psalm 85.11-13, NKJV) Those are the impulses of faith. We can celebrate on the 4th of July, even in our difficult circumstances, in faith, confident that God will get us through.

It stopped raining. Just in time for the concert. A glorious evening. Wonderful music.

Fireworks. Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture complete with cannons. We celebrated after all.

And memories made with our future daughter and son-in-law. (That the two didn’t run as far away as possible from the Hawkins clan after that experience is nothing short of miraculous!) It was a celebration of thanksgiving, and it was a celebration in faith.

Our circumstances are difficult this year. Our celebrations this year may be different. But may we still celebrate our nation’s birthday with thanksgiving and in faith!

Shell Point Life | July/August 2020

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Natu re’s Noteb ook

BY ST E V E M O RTO N , D I R E C TO R O F L A N D S C A P E O P E R AT I O N S

C

Have You Ever Seen the Rain?

umulus clouds formed heavily in the south, like huge wolf packs heaped up in threatening disorder.

The monsoon season had already started as I drove north on Highway 10, passing the Tucson city limits. On the left side, rather close to the road was Sentinel Peak.

The huge “A” letter was placed onto the large hill by a forgotten freshman class, boldly announcing the presence of The University of Arizona. The snarling clouds pursued me relentlessly; flashes of lightning snapped at my heels like ravenous jaws. Abandoning the trek to Home Depot, I sought shelter at the University parking lot near the Nugent Building.

The tears of Calandra fell from the sky as she wailed pitifully for her dead husband Orestes, the son of Zeus. Oblivious of poor Calandra’s misery, Englishman Robert Scott Troup peered intently through the torrents of her despair while observing a Golden Jackal foraging under the tree canopy. This was the “ah ha” moment for Troup as he watched the rain-soaked Jackal gnaw upon the long slender pod to obtain the bean-like seeds inside. First one, then another, the Jackal was hungry today. In 1911, Botanist Robert Troup, developed his theory that the Golden Jackal was the seed dispersal agent of the Cassia tree of India.

For over a thousand years, the people of India and Southeast Asia have been using the parts of the Cassia tree as a medicinal. With the pods pounded into a sweetened pulp, it was consumed for its purgative effects. The leaves were used as fodder for livestock and the wood, which is dense and heavy, was used to make agricultural implements. But no description of the tree that the Hindis

call the “Amaltas” is complete without an examination of the flowers.

I parked on the north side of the Nugent building as shelter from the oncoming storm. The wind funneled between the university buildings, driving the rain sideways in angry sheets of water. The car rocked wildly with each gust, and the windshield wipers lifted up shuddering in fear. Calandra once again reminded the mortals of her eternal anguish. Yet, amid the chaos of sorrow, stood a beacon of yellow hope. A tree covered with more flowers than I had ever seen. The flowers grew in pendulous chains nearly two feet long. I had to learn more about this specimen.

After many telephone calls, I reached the University of Arizona’s, Director of the Campus Arboretum. I described the tree and Ms. Davidson gently laughed at my query. “I get more calls about that tree than anything else on campus this time of the year.” She further explained the tree was known by the common name of The

Golden Shower Tree, and the scientific name was Cassia fistula. She added that I was fortunate to find the tree in its peak, yet short blooming period.

Like the university, Shell Point also has a Golden Shower Tree. Our sole specimen is tucked away in the Flowering Tree Arboretum located near the Gazebo behind the Arbor. The blooming period is often in the summer, but it is irregular and shortlived. I often wonder if anyone has seen the bloom of this remarkable tree. Yellow flowers cover the canopy with strands like vertical Hawaiian leis. The volume of flowers certainly makes up for the short duration of bloom. Once you witness the bloom of this remarkable tree, you will ask everyone that you know; have you ever seen the rain?