Shell Point Life Nov-Dec 2021

INSIDE: Concert Series Kicks Off • Holiday Celebrations • Rock Steady Boxing Nov/Dec Nov/Dec 2021 2021 Vol. Vol.16 16 Issue Issue 66

Flying

High

WWII Vets Take to the Sky

Sing to the LORD with Thanksgiving; Sing praises to our God on the lyre.

–Psalm 147:7

A Season of Thanks There is so much to be thankful for this year, along with so many ways to enjoy the holiday season at Shell Point! Inside this issue, you’ll find all the details about delicious holiday dining options, festive tree lightings at The Island and the Tribby, neighborhood holiday socials, and uplifting services at The Village Church – along with inspiring and interesting stories about your Shell Point friends and neighbors.

Flying High

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Over two magical days, 18 Shell Point residents took the flight of a lifetime from Page Field as part of Dream Flight’s 2021 mission to honor our country’s World War II Veterans. With hearts full of pride, grateful spouses, children, grandchildren and friends stood by as their loved one lifted off in a Stearman biplane donated to Dream Flights

by Shell Point resident Roland Garlinghouse. Read more about Roland and our resident WWII Veterans on page 6.

Fighting Back

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Shell Point’s Rock Steady Boxing Group is pulling no punches in their fight against Parkinson’s disease – and the benefits are amazing. Learn more about the physical and mental benefits this new class provides its participants on page 24.

On the Cover Roland Garlinghouse (Enclave) reunited with his beloved Stearman biplane during the Dream Flights “Operation September Freedom” event commemorating the end of World War II. 2

Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

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

Director of Marketing and Communications Lynn Schneider Editor Kara Hado Creative Director Rich Cerrina Senior Graphic Designer Wendy Iverson Contributors Chanelle Bastardo, Pat Bubb, Claude Emler, Don Pullen, Maria Festa, Janine Hammond, Andrew Hawkins, Jon High, Anette Isaacs, Steve Morton, Don Pullen, Emily Reese, Lisa Rizzio, Laura Slack, Debbie Stapleton, Susan Uhleman, Michael Weiss, Peggy Zimmerman Shell Point Life is available online.

You can find this 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

TRIBBY ARTS CENTER

RECOGNIZED WITH REGIONAL AWARD

BY KARA HADO

The Tribby Arts Center at Shell Point Retirement Community was recently honored with a Grand Aurora Award for its innovations in architecture and interior design.

Completed earlier this year, the $25 million Tribby Arts Center earned top accolades in the regional award’s “Best Commercial Project – 20,000 Square Feet & Over” division. The 44,000-square-foot space features a 400-seat auditorium, three art galleries, and designated studios for residents to practice music, painting, pottery, photography, glass, quilting, crafts, and the performing and literary arts. A café, gift shop and outdoor sculpture garden complete the hub of creative and cultural activity at Shell Point.

To help make the Tribby Arts Center vision a reality, Shell Point tapped a pair of professional partners who over the years have collaborated on other project teams throughout the 700-acre community. Chris Lee, principal of Christopher J. Lee Architects, Inc., previously served as

design architect on Shell Point’s Coastal Commons clubhouse in the Coastal Links neighborhood in 2016, while Lori Wegman of Wegman Design Group created interiors for Shell Point’s new Welcome Center in 2018, along with several amenity and common space renovations around the campus. Wegman is also currently overseeing the creative interior design for Shell Point’s new six-floor Larsen Health Center.

The 200,000-square-foot facility will offer professional healthcare services, a state-ofthe-art medical center, and modern skilled nursing care with private rooms featuring water and preserve views.

“At Shell Point, we continually invest in our community with both regular capital updates and the addition of new facilities and exciting amenities,” said Adam Hinds, Vice President of Operations. “Partnering with true professionals like Chris and Lori allows us to explore the creative possibilities as we offer our residents the best possible retirement lifestyle.”

Additional Tribby Arts Center team

Architect Christopher J. Lee; Shell Point Vice President of Operations, Adam Hinds; Designer Lori Wegman; Shell Point President Martin Schappell

members included Hole Montes, Stantec, Fiber Solutions, TSG Design Solutions, Siebein Associates, Liebl & Barrow Structural Engineering, and Energy Concepts of Southwest Florida.

Presented annually by the Florida Homebuilders Association and the Southeast Building Conference, the Aurora Awards celebrate residential and commercial construction professionals who are actively involved in projects located in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and the Eastern Caribbean.

2021 Employee Christmas Fund

Expressing Gratitude To Those Who Serve Us C A M PA I G N C H A I R S P E T E A N D D AW N H E R R ( T U R B A N )

Each day, our hearts are filled with gratitude for the caring, dedicated service the Shell Point Retirement Community employees provide as they make our lives safe, comfortable and oh, so pleasant. Yes, we respond with words of thankfulness and praise as often as possible, but at this time of year we wish to go beyond a spoken word and express our gratitude in a more tangible and meaningful way.

This Christmas season, through the Employee Christmas Fund, we have an opportunity to thank and bless all of the employees. A monetary gift, delivered just before the holidays, is a heartfelt demonstration of our gratitude for their hard work, faithful service, and pleasant attitude. The gift makes a real difference in the lives of the employees and their families.

There are three easy ways to show your appreciation by participating with an Employee Christmas Fund contribution:

can give by check made payable to Shell Point.

• You Please put Employee Christmas Fund on the memo line, and send it via campus mail to Cashier/Administration

can give a recurring donation online at • You www.shellpoint.net/christmasfund can give a one-time donation • You online at www.shellpoint.net/christmasfund

Time for contributing to this year’s Employee Christmas Fund is running out. The deadline to give is Wednesday, November 24. Expressing gratitude to Shell Point employees with a gift will bring enjoyment to the holiday for everyone – the giver and the receiver!

Questions? Visit www.shellpoint.net/ christmasfund

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Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

A Festive Holiday Dining Preview Shell Point’s welcoming dining locations offer delicious ways to share Thanksgiving, savor the spirit of Christmas, and celebrate the New Year in style, along with traditional Family Feasts for entertaining guests in your own home. For reservations, call Palm Grill at (239) 454-2059 and The Crystal at (239) 454-2199.

Thanksgiving

HOLIDAY HOURS

A buffet of culinary delights served in the Grand Cypress Room in The Woodlands will feature Roasted Turkey, Veal Osso Bucco, Citrus Glazed Baked Ham, Grilled Salmon Piccata and a plentiful selection of holiday side dishes and desserts for $32, all-inclusive. Make your reservations through the Palm Grill beginning Wednesday, November 3.

The Crystal’s buffet will include an impressive array of Thanksgiving favorites, salads, and a delectable dessert display for $32, all-inclusive.

Reservations are underway.

THANKSGIVING Island Café ........... Closed The Crystal............. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Palm Grill............... Closed Grand Cypress ...... 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Blend...................... Closed

Christmas Day

An à la carte Christmas Day feast in the Palm Grill will include a choice of Filet Mignon, Veal Chop, Chicken Oscar and Florida Red Snapper for $38, all inclusive. Reservations begin Wednesday, December 1.

Christmas Day will offer a very merry buffet in The Crystal with traditional Christmas favorites, salads and decadent desserts for $32, all-inclusive. Reservations are underway.

New Year’s Eve

Island Café............ 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Crystal ............ Closed Palm Grill............... 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Blend...................... Closed CHRISTMAS DAY Island Café ........... Closed The Crystal............. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Palm Grill............... 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Palm Grill’s special à la carte menu will offer a choice of Filet Mignon, Twin Florida Lobster Tails, Fresh Florida Grouper, or Colorado Lamb Chops. A chocolate dessert station, non-alcoholic champagne and live music add to the celebratory ambiance for $50, all-inclusive. Reservations begin Wednesday, December 1.

Family Feasts

CHRISTMAS EVE

Blend...................... Closed NEW YEAR’S EVE Island Café ........... 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Crystal............. 11 a.m to 7 p.m.

Palm Grill .............. 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Hosting a small gathering in your home? Let us do all the cooking! Family Feasts feature your choice of a 12- to 14-pound turkey with dressing, whipped potatoes, turkey gravy and cranberry sauce, or a six-pound baked honey-glazed ham with raisin sauce, and candied sweet potatoes. Both meals are accompanied by a vegetable medley, dinner rolls, and your choice of pumpkin or apple pie! Designed to feed four to six people, the meal is $70 plus 18% gratuity.

Call The Crystal to order the Thanksgiving Feast by Sunday, November 21 at 2 p.m. Pickup will take place at the Social Center on the Island from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thanksgiving Day. Order the Christmas Feast by Sunday, December 19 at 2 p.m. Pickup will take place in the Social Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Christmas Day.

Blend...................... Closed NEW YEAR’S DAY Island Café ........... 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The Crystal............. Closed Palm Grill .............. 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Blend...................... Closed

Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

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Take

Flight

BY LYNN SCHNEIDER

Roland Garlinghouse Shares His Love of Flying with Veterans 6

Shell Point Life | September/October 2021

R

oland Garlinghouse (Enclave) on war construction projects and was born during World War II in from 1943 to the end of the war, Pasadena, California when the entire Gar-Bro was focused on procurecountry, including his family’s business, was ment and maintenance service dedicated to winning the war. focused on the war effort.

Roland (L) drove his MG-TC from Pasadena, CA to Macon, GA to pick up his friend (R) on the way Garlinghouse Brothers, known as Garto sophomore year at Rensselaer Polytechnic Bro, was founded in Los Angeles in 1923 Institute in Troy, NY. From An Early Age

by Roland’s grandfather, Leslie Holmes Garlinghouse, to provide specialized equipIn addition to working for ment and engineering services to the con- the family business, Roland’s father, Leslie and highway projects, were located in outstruction industry.

Holmes Garlinghouse, Jr., was also a general of-the-way locations across the country. My At that time, civil engineers were busy aviation pilot, so Roland grew up around father got his pilot’s license to be able to building roads in the state of California; airplanes. But it wasn’t the glamour that advise our customers and transport equiphowever, Western construction methods attracted him to flying. “I was a ‘gear head’ ment and materials to the sites that were differed a great deal from those of previous from the age of seven. I just loved machin- not near commercial airports.” decades in the East. Something as From an early age, Roland knew simple as transporting wet concrete he wanted to be a mechanical engi“I was a ‘gear head’ from the age of in traditional wheelbarrows that neer and work in the family business. were made with wooden wheels seven. I just loved machinery of any “Growing up I spent my free time and steel rims became impossible. working at the metal-working plant kind and I was especially attracted Leslie, or L.H., as he was known, doing a variety of odd jobs, sweeping talked to Harvey Firestone and floors, operating a shear and an ironto the mechanics of airplanes.” got him to make a pneumatic tire worker, and helping around the ware(rubber filled with air), which became a very ery of any kind and I was especially attracted house.” popular improvement to the lowly, yet indis- to the mechanics of airplanes,” he said.

When he wasn’t at the plant, Roland pensable, wheelbarrow.

“Flying airplanes was part of the busi- was working on machines at home. “I From 1923 to 1930, the company ness because commercial flights often did bought a wrecked MG-TC when I was specialized in construction plant layouts not take us where we needed to go. Most of focusing particularly on helping contrac- Gar-Bro’s major accounts, such as big dams Continued on next page tors who were building dams, bridges, roads and other large-scale commercial projects that were occurring at a rapid pace throughout the United States. From 1930 to 1937, Gar-Bro utilized engineering ingenuity to develop cost-saving methods during the Depression. From 1937 to 1942, the company concentrated on developing and manufacturing new products. When World War II started, the company began assisting engineers and contractors Roland’s grandfather, Leslie Holmes Garlinghouse, founded Garlinghouse Brothers in 1923.

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Take Flight Continued from page 7

14, and my father and I totally stripped it down to the bare frame and put it all back together in time for my 16th birthday,” he recalled fondly.

When it was time to head off for college, Roland chose the oldest engineering school in the United States: Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York.

Needless to say, this Southern Californian was not prepared for New York winters.

“I had never been east of Arizona before leaving for RPI, and the first snowfall hit on Halloween. I was not a fan and questioned why in the world I did this. It was just so cold! I had an aluminum slide rule that I really liked, but when winter came it stuck to my fingers and I needed to buy a bamboo one so that it wouldn’t freeze up on the walk to class.”

One good thing that came out of his cold college years was meeting the love of his life, Gail Bock, who was attending Russell Sage College, an allgirls school nearby. The couple were set up by friends on a

blind date at a fraternity party.

“I thought she was great,” he said, “but I am not so sure she was that impressed with me at the time.” However, Roland kept after the beautiful brunette. “After dating her for three months, I found out from another girl in her dorm that she put a sign on her door that said, ‘California, here I come!’ I thought that was a good sign.”

When Roland asked Gail’s father for her hand in marriage, he had to make two promises. “Her father said I had to wait until she was not a teenager and since I was graduating before her, I had to promise that she would finish college. I made good on

both of those promises.”

Roland graduated from college in 1966 as a mechanical engineer and married Gail one month after graduation on July 30, just after her 20th birthday. The couple immediately moved to Maryville, Tennessee where Roland went to work for Alcoa and Gail enrolled in Maryville College to complete her degree in art education.

“My dad said that I should be out in the real world for five years and get some practical experience before joining the family business,” said Roland. “Gail taught elementary school until the couple welcomed their boys, Jeffrey and John.

California, Here We Come!

“In 1970, we moved to California and I started working at Gar-Bro. By then, my grandfather had passed away and my father was very active

Above: Roland, Gail and sons Jeff and John (left) and brother Les and his family with then-Arkansas Governor Bill Clinton at a Gar-Bro plant dedication in 1979.

A Gar-Bro bucket at work on the Revelstoke Dam in British Columbia, Canada.

The operator is just starting to pull on the lanyard.

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A birds-eye view of a dam under construction, with a 12-cubic-yard cableway bucket depositing concrete. The bucket with the pink arrow is just standing by (not hooked to its cableway).

Shell Point Life | September/October 2021

"When I found the Stearman airplane – that’s the plane that stole my heart. I had that airplane for 27 years, and it was just a wonderful old friend," said Roland.

in the company. I started out as a designer and then got involved in managing the shop. After I became very familiar with the various products and how they were used, I was sent to construction sites around the country to advise contractors on equipment selection and assist with problem solving.”

In 1977, Roland’s father retired and Roland became president. By then, Los Angeles had grown into a major city with some major problems and in 1978, Roland decided to move the family business from Los Angeles to Heber Springs, a small town in Arkansas.

Roland was familiar with Heber Springs because it was the site of a major dam that Gar-Bro had supplied equipment and services to during its construction.

The town was also located near the center of the United States, which made travel much easier to get to clients working on major construction projects such as locks, dams and roads.

Into the Wild Blue As president of Gar-Bro, Roland decided that he needed to learn how to fly.

In 1979, he took the lessons and became a pilot.

“I flew for the next 40 years,” said Roland. “At first I flew for business reasons, but once I really got into it, I found

out that I loved flying.

That inspired me to get the instrument rating, the multi-engine rating, the float plane rating and finally a commercial license. I owned a series of non-business airplanes Gail and Roland enjoy volunteering with Dream Flights. just for the enjoyment of it, starting with a Piper Super Cub, which I put on floats for a while the airplane was behind the front wheels. so that I could fly out of the back yard of our So, if you were landing the airplane and summer house in the Finger Lakes of New didn't have it aligned properly with the York. But, when I found the Stearman air- runway it wouldn’t straighten itself out, plane; that’s the plane that stole my heart. I it would actually get worse, which would had that airplane for 27 years and it was just cause what's called a ground loop. That’s where you would drag a wing and spin a wonderful old friend.

“The Stearman airplane has an inter- around. If you learned how to handle the esting history,” said Roland. “The Stearman plane and had good reaction time and good airplane was designed by Lloyd Stearman sight adaption you could avoid that. But, and the WWII versions came out of the if you were clumsy in any way it showed Boeing factory in Wichita, Kansas. Identical up very quickly. The rule during training airplanes were built for both the Army and was you get one ground loop. If you had a the Navy. Mine was built in February 1943. second one, you were moved to the ships It became a Navy airplane and was used as a or the infantry.

“That separated a lot of people very primary trainer during World War II. “The way the airplane was designed, quickly in the first couple of weeks of their there were several traits specific to the flying program. Another thing was that the Stearman that allowed the Army and Stearman’s fuel tank was mounted on top Navy to separate the pilots from those who of the top wing so your center of gravity in should be on shipboard or infantry men,” the airplane when it was on the ground was he explained. “First, it was a taildragger, Continued on next page which means that the center of gravity of Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

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Take Flight Continued from page 9

not particularly stable. This would aggravate those problems when landing as well.

Plus, you sat in the back seat of the airplane when you were flying a solo, so you had this long tunnel of fuselage blocking your forward view when the tailwheel was on the ground.

“With all these hindrances, it seemed like the Stearman was an unusual choice for a training plane, but it was actually an excellent choice,” explained Roland, “because this was exactly what pilots would be dealing with when they got into one of the actual fighter planes like a Corsair or a P51 Mustang.”

“In those planes, pilots would not be able to see ahead either, so the Army and Navy both thought this was a good thing for training purposes and would help pilots get used to those facts. It would teach them how to ‘S-turn’ when they were taxiing on the runway so that it started to feel natural and they would already be used to it when they transitioned from the training plane to an actual fighter plane. So it was really a very good and well-designed aircraft to serve as a training airplane.”

When Roland found his own original Stearman airplane, he got it airworthy and brought it home. He flew it for almost two years and then decided take it completely

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apart and restore it fully.

“I wanted it to be hopefully better than it was when it originally came out of the Boeing factory in Wichita,” he said. “After that I flew it for 25 years. I went all over the country and took it as far as upstate New York from Arkansas, to Florida and out west as far as Sedona, Arizona. It was just a wonderful airplane.”

Barnstorming Across America “Flying an open air cockpit airplane is a lot different from a normal airplane,” said Roland. “In an open cockpit, there is no heater or defroster. You are out there in the elements. That’s the wonderful part.

When you are in the open air and flying over pastures, you can smell the grass and feel the wind through the cockpit. You can tell when you are moving towards moisture or going through a little bit of a cold zone in the atmosphere.

“The downside is you've got to dress in layers because the lapse rate or the cooling of the air is about 3 degrees per 1,000 feet, so when you're on the ground on an 80 degree day and you climb to 5,000 feet, now it’s a 65 degree day. You have to be a little Houdini-like to be able to get in and out of clothes as you go. Then the next problem is where do you store the clothes

Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

Roland and Gail in their Shell Point home.

and not just accidentally launch them over the side while you are up in the air. I probably wallpapered several areas below with aviation charts that I was trying to unfold to see where I was. Back then there wasn’t computer or GPS navigation. It was just the paper charts, and those things could easily rip apart and fly right out of your hands.

You learned to look for a water tower as you were coming into a town and circle it once to read the name on it to make sure that you were in the right place. There were a

lot of differences in flying a plane like the Stearman, but they were just part of the joy of it.”

Sanibel Snowbirds In 1988, Roland and Gail moved to Sanibel, Florida. Roland continued to commute back and forth to Heber Springs to run the company. In 2020, the couple moved into their new Shell Point home.

“We just love The Enclave,” said Roland. “Gail and I have met so many new people and everyone here is eager to make friends, so it is very social.”

Garlinghouse Brothers still operates as a family business. Although Roland has retired as president, he continues to be involved in the business and serves on its board of directors, as do his sons Jeffrey and John. Roland travels back and forth to Heber Springs for board meetings and various functions, but these days he travels by commercial airplanes. After more than four decades of flying, and almost three decades of flying his beloved Stearman, Roland decided it was time to stop flying and give others the chance.

Operation September Freedom Roland became acquainted with Darryl Fisher, the founder of Dream Flights (formerly Ageless Aviation Dreams). Darryl also came from an avid aviation family, and among their airplanes they also owned a Stearman.

Darryl began to wonder what it would be like to fly some senior adults who lived in nursing homes or retirement homes. He sent out an inquiry and made contact with a facility in Mississippi where three fellows wanted to try it. Darryl knew he was onto something exciting after the first flight.

“The way one of those first participants described the experience was he got into the airplane at 90 years old and got out feeling like he was 19,” he said. “It put the spark back in their eyes.”

Since then, Darryl and many other volunteer pilots who have joined him, have given over 4,300 flights to veterans and nursing home residents.

“When I got to the point that I realized I probably shouldn't be flying anymore, I contacted Darryl,” said Roland. “I said I’ve got a nice Stearman,

Above: Dream Flights Founder and President Darryl Fisher is personally driven to offer every WWII Veteran in America their “ride of a lifetime” in one of his six Stearman planes. The largest barnstorming event ever in the United States – Operation September Freedom – has given flights to over 800 veterans. Since 2011, Dream Flights has given more than 5,000 flights to veterans.

“We are here to say thank you,” said Darryl. “We are here to give you a gift, and that gift will seem somewhat trivial compared to what you gave us – because you gave us freedom.”

Below: Gail and Roland with signs honoring our WWII veteran residents with Shell Point Director of Resident Life Laura Slack.

Continued on next page

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Take Flight Continued from page 11

it’s beautifully restored in military colors, and I would like you to have it. That was the beginning of my relationship with Dream Flights.”

In 2020, the non-profit organization noticed the number of World War II veterans was decreasing rapidly among the people they were flying. The pandemic forced the group to suspend their flights, but in 2021, when they could start flying again they planned a special series of flights called “Operation September Freedom.”

Working with retirement communities and nursing homes across the country, the group tried to find as many World War II veterans as they could find, regardless of whether they were pilots in the war or not. They wanted all World War II vets to have the chance to take a flight.

“There’s nothing more moving than when we fly these people, and after they land they don’t want to get out of the airplane,” said Roland.

“They say, just leave me alone for a minute and you know that they are experiencing a flood of memories, often accompanied by a few tears.

It’s just a wonderful experience for everybody involved.”

Roland continued to volunteer in the organization and assist at the various ceremonies.

He was pleased when two days of flights were scheduled for the Fort Myers area.

“I was thrilled that Shell Point agreed to participate,” he said. “It was really wonderful to see the outpouring of interest in it.

Roland worked with the Shell Point Resident Life team and the Shell Point Veterans’ Group led by Colonel Jim Stapleton to locate Shell Point residents who were former World War II veterans and offer them this opportunity. Those who were interested in taking a flight were interviewed to capture their personal history in World War II. A dossier on each person was prepared and announced during the ceremony as each veteran went out to the airplane for their ride. 18 Shell Point residents, ranging in age from 92 to 102 participated in the grand adventure over two days at Page Field in Fort Myers.

“I am pleased at how well this worked out, and I am proud to have been a part of this meaningful event,” said Roland. “My airplane has flown many special people since it became part of the Dream Flights fleet, and it has just been a thrill to help them.”

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Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

PELZER LYNAH (Springs), 97

U.S. Navy Lieutenant, Junior Grade, 1944 -1946 Served as an Instructor Pilot at the Jacksonville, Florida Naval Air Station

BILL REIFF (Eagles Preserve), 97

Army Air Corps First Lieutenant, 1943 - 1945 Fighter Pilot (P51), flew out of England Awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and Air Medal with Eleven Clusters

GEORGE GOSKO (Parkwood), 97

Army Air Corps B-17 Pilot 1943 - 1946 286 Flight Hours and 35 Combat Missions as part of the 94th Bombardment Group. “My plane was the ‘Gremlin Hotel’.”

KEN HOEKWATER (Harbor Court), 95

Army Air Corps Sergeant, 1944 - 1946 Served in Texas, Nevada, Iowa, Nebraska, Mississippi, Illinois and Oklahoma. B-17 Crew, Served as a Link Trainer Instructor

Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

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Take Flight

Darryl Fisher, Roland Garlinghouse, Jason Smith and Jim Stapleton

JIM MOCKLER (Junonia), 92

U.S. Army Technician, Fifth Grade 1946 - 1948 Fort Richardson, Alaska “I had enlisted, but my older brother who was drafted ended up in my squad for Basic Training, where I was his squad leader. I will never forget my trip to Alaska on a Liberty Ship. So many got seasick, I spent most of the time above board!”

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Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

HARRY NELSON (Springs), 102 U.S. Navy, Seaman First Class 1942 - 1945 Coxswain, Staten Island Atlantic

JAN VAN LAER (Turban), 94

U.S. Navy Seaman First Class, 1944-1946 Yeoman duties in Norman, OK and Bainbridge, MD

PHIL HILTON (Springs), 92

U.S. Navy Airman First Class, 1947-1950; Illinois, Florida, Tennessee, Maryland; U.S. Air Force Second Lieutenant, 1952-1954 Texas, Mississippi, Tachikawa, Tokyo and Misawa, Japan; Received a Korean War Medal

LOUIS FREYRE (Springs), 94

Merchant Marine Cadet, 1945-1946; U.S. Army Sergeant, 1946-1948; U.S. Air Force, First Lieutenant, 1951-1958

CARL STEHMAN (Lakewood), 96

U.S. Navy, U.S. Naval Reserve Commander 1943 – 1985 WWII: 1943 – 1946 Korean War: 1951 - 1954 Awarded Rank in Binghamton, NY while C.O. of Training Center and Ithaca, NY, while in USNR “I took the last leg of the USS Nimitz CVN-68 Active Duty Cruise from Rota, Spain to home port in Norfolk, Virginia. I was the guest of my son, USN Lieutenant Roger Stehman, who served on the Nimitz.”

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Take Flight DAN DRUMMOND (Springs), 97 U.S. Navy Quartermaster Third Class, 1944-1945; USS Slater, Philippines Saw the cloud from the atomic bomb dropped on Japan.

ED RAND (Coquina), 98

U.S. Air Force First Lieutenant, 1943-1946; Guam, Iwo Jima, Philippines, Tinian, Japan On Runway Able on Tinian's North Field in the Mariana Islands, watched the first A Bomb being loaded onto the Enola Gay on August 5, 1945

Fort Myers Fire Department Truck 11 and Lee Country Port Authority Firemen supported the Dream Flights event.

Left: Cypress Lake High School Junior Officer Training Command.

GEORGE NELSON (Springs), 92

U.S. Marines Corps, Private, 1947 – 1949; Camp Lejeune U.S. Army Corporal, 1951-1953 Korea; Awarded Bronze Star and Purple Heart. When serving in Korea with a 240 Howitzer Battery, a North Korean shell exploded and overturned a 155 Howitzer onto George.

RICHARD CORBIN (Springs), 98

U.S. Army Sergeant, 1942-1946; France and Germany Awarded a Bronze Star. Dick’s platoon captured a castle in Hanover, Germany. He was awarded the Nazi flag that flew over the castle.

LOUIS SLATER (Arbor), 98

U.S. Army Machine Gunner England, France, Germany, Belgium, Holland

Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

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Take Flight

ROD MCGEARY (Arbor), 95

U.S. Navy Air Corps Cadet 1943-1947 Stearman Plane Captain

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis visited with Dan Drummond after his flight and thanked him for his service to our country.

ROY SCHAETZEL (Harbor Court), 95

Army Air Corps Private First Class, 1944 - 1945; Cadet Training in Waco, Texas and Administration in Oscott Field, Illinois. Among the last group of air cadets held in reserve until the war ended.

George Gosko enjoyed the view as he flew over the Caloosahatchee, Shell Point and the Sanibel Causeway.

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Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

ARTHUR SHERRILL (Springs), 95

U.S. Navy Lieutenant, Junior Grade 1943 – 1946 Japan and China LST #626 Advisor to Chinese National Navy

Shell Point resident Bill Reiff with Lee County Commissioner Ray Sandelli

Come along for the ride!

Watch the Shell Point Dream Flights Video at www.shellpoint.org/dreamflights

A dedicated crew helps make Dream Flights a reality for our deserving veterans.

Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

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Celebrating Our Favorite Cuddly Companion: The Teddy Bear

BY A N E T T E I S A AC S , AC A D E M Y O F L I F E LO N G L E A R N I N G

On Thursday, September 9, The Academy of Lifelong Learning paid homage to world-famous toy maker Margarete Steiff (1847-1909), the woman behind the Teddy Bear. The date of this delightful program was not chosen arbitrarily: September 9 is National Teddy Bear Day in the United States. Reason enough for the Academy to present the awe-inspirMargarete Steiff ing story of a young girl from Southern Germany who overcame incredible challenges and turned her tiny workshop into one of the most recognizable international brands, no less in the male-dominated world of the 19th century!

Margarete tragically contracted polio when she was just a toddler. Interestingly enough, it was this handicap that led her to pursue an independent life that was not going to be defined by marriage and motherhood. She was blessed to have supportive parents who welcomed her idea to open a dress making shop in the modest family home in the tiny town of Giengen near Stuttgart in Southern Germany. Margarete and her two older sisters started designing and sewing beautiful women’s clothes and even hats. One snowy evening in December of 1879, the young designer was looking through a fashion magazine when she came across a sewing pattern for a pin cushion that looked like a little elephant. Thinking that this would be the perfect Christmas present for one of her cousins, she created the endearing pin cushion that very eve20

ning. As a frugal Swabian seamstress, the Roosevelt, who became the namesake of the talented designer used felt leftovers that she Teddy Bear. The stars aligned for Margarete found in her studio and filled the little ele- in 1904 when she and her 19-inch Steiff phant with shear wool that she happened to bear with movable limbs were the hit at the World’s Fair in St. Louis. The German seamhave on hand.

The next day, Margarete took this stress won the Grand Prize in the category adorable little sewing accessory and vis- “toys and stuffed animals,” and during the duration of the World’s Fair ited her cousin Lina alone she sold over 12,000 for a pre-Christmas bears to an enchanted Kaffeeklatsch and gift American audience. The exchange. Lina was year 1907, though, is comthe mother of four monly known as the Teddy young boys, and when Bear Year: the craze around they saw this spethe adorable animal was so cial gift that “Cousin intense that exactly 975,000 Gretchen” (a pet name Steiff bears were sold in the for Margarete) had U.S.A. Not only did this sewn for their mother, Margarete's first creation was a pin cushion that make her name synonymous they could not conlooked like a little elephant. with the Teddy Bear, but it tain their excitement also meant that in 1907 and demanded to play with it. Overjoyed, they ran through the over $1 million U.S. dollars were transhouse and hugged and kissed the little ele- ferred to the Steiff Company in Giengen phant and vowed to not give it back to its by American retailers and wholesalers. intended owner but to keep it for them- Imagine being the unsuspecting mayor of selves. This was the exact moment when that town and receiving business taxes on the entrepreneurial Ms. Steiff realized that $1 million, just from Ms. Steiff’s profesa stuffed animal would make a wonderful sional endeavors alone! No wonder she was children’s toy – and from then on there was revered not only in her home town, but in all of Germany. After all, she was the only no stopping her. female CEO of a major company prior to World War I! A Business is Born Close to 100 Shell Point residents just In the ensuing years, she built a world-famous business that is still beloved adored hearing this incredibly inspiring by so many youngsters and adults alike. In story, and several of them brought their own 1897, business-minded Margarete published well-loved Steiff bears to the Grand Cypress her first English language toy catalogue in room for a fun Show and Tell. What a order to conquer the British and American delightful way to celebrate National Teddy markets. She was helped, of course, by the Bear Day with the Shell Point Academy of immense popularity of President Theodore Lifelong Learning.

Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

UPCOMING ACADEMY HIGHLIGHTS The Shell Point Academy of Lifelong Learning has a number of wonderful presentations and classes in store for you that will make your autumn educational, entertaining, and oh, so delicious! Here are a few highlights:

Zotter once worked at the famed 5-star hotel The Pierre in New York City before returning to his native country and launching a chocolate factory in one of the stables at his parents’ farm. In the last three decades, the business has evolved into a, as he likes to call it, “competency center for chocolate.” Currently there are over 50 flavors to choose from, continuously developed by Mr. Zotter himself, in collaboration with his daughter Julia. The family venture with 200 employees is proud to be ranked among Austria’s most sustainable businesses.

Cole Porter Tribute

Zotter chocolates from Austria are delicious works of art. Be sure to catch this tasty class Journey of Chocolate: From Bean to Bar on December 4.

After the amazing success of his Irving Berlin tribute in September, the music lovers at Shell Point will no doubt want to hear Prof. Thomas Cimarusti’s brand new program on Cole Porter (FLL32) on Monday, November 29 at 4 p.m.. This time, our favorite musicologist is accompanied by Prof. Krzysztof Biernacki, who is not only the Director of FGCU’s Bower School of Music, but also a successful singer in his own right. Come and enjoy their renditions of Cole Porter’s iconic hits such as I’ve Got You Under My Skin and Night and Day.

Subzero's ice cream is prepared using liquid nitrogen. Attend National Science Day on November 10 to learn more and enjoy a sweet treat.

Delicious Science The Academy is celebrating National Science Day (FLL17) on Wednesday, November 10 at noon with a very cool treat: Doug and Jill Shenk from Subzero in Sarasota will delight us (and our taste buds) with an interactive and educational science presentation that uses liquid nitrogen to create delicious ice cream!

Learn More If you haven’t heard of Zotter, you are in for a sweet surprise. The Academy is hosting Barbara Dolleschal, education manager and U.S. Distributor of Zotter chocolates, who will present the Journey of Chocolate: From Bean to Bar (FLL36) on Saturday, December 4 at 2 p.m.

The Austrian company Zotter counts among the best and most innovative chocolate producers in the world, and of course, we will also be able to taste this absolutely delicious treat. The company’s founder Josef

Please refer to the current Academy of Lifelong Learning brochure for a complete listing of classes, locations, and fees. Academy brochures are available at either Concierge Desk. See you in class!

Join Professor Thomas Cimarusti for a new music program entitled Cole Porter on November 29.

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A Slice of

HISTORY

By Kara Hado

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Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

In the United States, mincemeat pie takes its place among pumpkin and apple as a familiar favorite on holiday tables from Thanksgiving through Christmas. The pie’s origins date back to the 12th century and the Crusades, since it was a good way of preserving meat without curing or smoking it. The large pies were filled with a mixture of fruit, spices, and mutton, beef, rabbit, pork or game. By the late 14th century, a recipe for mince pie had already made its way into one of the oldest known English cookbooks, “The Forme of Cury,” according to historian Katherine Clements.

English settlers brought mincemeat pie to New England in the 17th century.

While it was originally a Christmas pie in Britain, the Puritans did not celebrate Christmas, causing the pie’s associations in the region to shift toward the American holiday of Thanksgiving.

Across the United States, the sweet and spicy scent of mince likely evokes warm memories of happy holidays spent with generations of family, listening to stories gathered around the dining room table.

But for Nicole Ryan (Sundial), mincemeat pies hold a particularly special meaning.

Nicole’s paternal grandfather, Oscar Frank Soule, partnered with G. Lewis Merrell in 1868 to open a fruit and vegetable canning factory in Syracuse, New York. In 1873, the company patented a process for canning corn and also began experimenting with methods to reduce the moisture content in mincemeat to help increase its shelf life. In 1885, the Merrell-Soule Company introduced its famous None Such condensed mincemeat.

Merrell-Soule also developed an innovative method for drying milk, and their powered milk product Klim, or “milk” spelled backwards, was sold throughout the world. After a powerful earthquake devastated the Japanese cities of Tokyo and Yokohama in 1923, Merrell-Soule shipped tons of Klim to feed the survivors. At its peak in the 1920s, Merrell-Soule had 26 American

By 1925, None Such mincemeat was so popular that the company produced enough Mincemeat to fill 12 million pies!

Courtesy of Onondaga Historical Association

and Canadian factories and employed 900 people, with about half working in Syracuse. In 1928, the Borden Company purchased the facilities and products of the Merrell-Soule Company. Today, JM Smucker Company produces and markets Borden None Such Mincemeat – a nod to its Merrell-Soule origins.

Born in Montclair, New Jersey in 1941, Nicole moved to Fayetteville, New York near Syracuse, when her father, Frank Channing Soule, answered the call to work at WFBL, a radio station owned by his father, Oscar Frank Soule.

“Moving back to New York really opened up a lot of things to us as kids, and I had a very interesting childhood,” she laughed, recalling how she and her two older sisters were allowed to announce the weather on air over the weekend. They also learned about constructing smokehouses and icehouses.

“My grandfather wore many hats,” she explained. “Along with the radio station, he had a gentleman’s farm and he was very interested in experimenting with safer ways of preserving food, including canning,” said Nicole. “I had wonderful grandparents who were really interested in helping other people help themselves. My grandfather also believed in public education and felt that everyone should have the same chances.” Today, the Onondaga County Public Library’s Soule Branch

honors his contributions to the region.

Nicole is a second-generation Shell Point resident: her mother, Ruth “Dolly” Soule, lived here from 2007 to 2014, and Nicole continues to honor her family legacy today. Along with being a master gardener, she is an accomplished home chef who loves blessing her neighbors with comforting homemade chicken soup, wonderful plum cakes, and delicious mince-filled baked apples, pears and pies.

“People need other people, and Shell Point is a wonderful place to be,” she said.

The entrance to Nicole’s home honors family — including her paternal grandfather, Oscar Frank Soule.

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RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Ed Hayward (Harbor Court) and Coach Angie Moran

Fighting Back Against Parkinsons

Shell Point Launches New Rock Steady Boxing Program Through Rock Steady Boxing (RSB), the program also provides a sense of a new, non-contact boxing style camaraderie for both boxers and their fitness program, Shell Point residents caregivers. No boxing experience is necwith Parkinson’s are empowered to “fight essary, and people of all ages around the back” against their disease and improve United States participate in this program.

Shell Point’s RSB classes are taught their quality of life.

RSB is based on Cleveland Clinic studies that suggest that intense, “forced” exercise programs may be neuro-protective by actually working to delay the progression of symptoms.

RSB provides encouragement through a “tough love” approach, inspiring maximum effort, speed, strength, balance and flexibility through a circuit-training format designed to develop agility, speed, muscular endurance, accuracy, hand-eye coordination, footwork and overall strength.

Coaches Deb Stapleton, Melanie Brod and Along with the physical benefits, Angie Moran 24

Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

by certified coaches, and Head Coach Angie Moran brings six years of experience teaching RSB classes. “After a long career in the fitness industry, these classes are the most rewarding classes I have ever had the pleasure to teach,” said Angie.

“It brings me joy when a fighter tells me they no longer need a cane or walker, or when they say they went out to a meal with friends and were able to take part in the fun and conversation.”

Angie added that Fitness Coordinator Melanie Brod, who is the newest RSB coach, is “a real natural.”

Fitness Supervisor Debbie Stapleton, who brings two years of experience as an Assistant Coach, said, “We are so blessed to have this program for our residents here at Shell Point!”

Lucille Dickinson (Periwinkle)

Hal Drake (Cameo)

Carol Heath (Oakmont)

Frank Damico (Parkwood)

Quill Ruffner (Lucina)

Ed Hayward (Harbor Court)

Shell Point residents are eager to share their experience and explain the difference that the RSB program has made in their lives.

“Before Rock Steady, my confidence was very low, stability not good, and my strength was poor due to lack of exercise.

Meeting the coaches and the other class members made me feel accepted and gave me the encouragement I needed to begin the fight against Parkinson’s!” said Hal Drake (Cameo). “The challenges have become easier, and I feel happier and more secure in balance and walking. I know that I am building strength.

I also find myself secure enough to carry my cane and not use it. I feel thankful and more positive about my Parkinson’s.

Thanks to our coaches Angie, Debbie and Melanie for all the hard work they do at each class. Life is good!”

Several of the participants echoed that the class has made a huge impact as they navigate their Parkinson’s journey.

“My balance has improved, and I can go longer between doses of my Parkinson’s medication,” said Hutch

(Bob) Hutchinson (Harbor Court).

“My favorite is when we put our boxing gloves on! We have fun while working hard,” said Frank Damico (Parkwood).

“We have good Coaches. The program is well designed – it’s an intense workout, with a lot of variety.”

Angie noted that Frank was promoted from PD4 to PD 2/3, after showing remarkable improvement in balance and coordination.

Lucille Dickinson (Periwinkle), said, “It’s given me confidence in myself. I do more than I thought I could do. It’s more fun than any other exercise class that I do. It’s great to be with others who are experiencing the same things as I am.”

Before participating in Shell Point’s Rock Steady Boxing program, an assessment is required. Afterwards, residents may purchase a Rock Steady Boxing start-up kit that includes boxing gloves and a “Fighting Back” T-shirt. There is a monthly fee for the class that meets Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. To learn more, contact Fitness Supervisor Debbie Stapleton at (239) 454-2107.

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This Holiday Season, Think Salon and Spa!

B Y R O B Y N C H U R C H , S A LO N A N D S PA M A N AG E R

Shell Point offers a wide array of professional salon and spa services with many options to help you look your very best.

Our diverse team – including 11 hair stylists, two nail technicians, three massage therapists and three skin care professionals – provides services in a tranquil, relaxing environment.

If you are new to Shell Point, you may not be aware of all the fabulous services we offer. Please see our menu of services in our Island and Seagrape Salon & Spa brochures for more details. n Hair Cutting & Styling

n Full Body Waxing Services

n Hair Coloring & Perming

n Manicures and Pedicures

n Foiling & Balayage

n Gel Polish

n Deep Conditioning and Scalp Treatments

n Fingernail and Toenail Clip & File

n Keratin Smoothing Treatments

n Comprehensive Menu of Facial Treatments

n Eyebrow Shaping and Tinting

n Micro-needling

n Eyelash Tinting

n Full Range of Massage Services

n Make-up Consultations

n Body Scrub

20% of f

NEW CUSTOMERS receive 20% off your choice of one service!

ONE SPECIAL PER CUSTOMER, PLEASE. EXPIRES FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021.

10% of f

Already a valued customer?

Relieve holiday stress with a relaxing massage or facial and save 10%.

ONE SPECIAL PER CUSTOMER, PLEASE. EXPIRES FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021.

Our salon sanitation steps of service include all staff wearing an N95 mask while delivering services, a freshly laundered styling cape for all hair care services, and sanitation and disinfecting of all touch services between customers.

We are committed to your safety.

Monday, January 10 Banyan Banquet Room

Fashion Show If you felt like you missed something this past October, never fear! The Community Thrift Store’s Annual Fashion Show is scheduled for Monday, January 10.

During “The Unveiling,” you will learn some interesting tidbits about each Shell Point resident and employee model as they show off fashions from the Community Thrift Store.

We will enjoy a delizioso Italian luncheon, featuring chicken Parmesan, pasta, salad, garlic rolls, dessert, and beverage catered by The Olive Garden.

Sign-ups begin Wednesday, December 1 at the Concierge Desks Doors Open: 11:45 a.m.

Lunch: Noon – 1 p.m.

Show: 1 – 2 p.m.

Cost: $20 (includes gratuity) Presented by the Community Thrift Store, Resident Life and Seagrape Salon and Spa.

Check Facebook for upcoming sales throughout the holiday season!

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Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

SHELL POINT IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THE SIXTH ANNUAL

2021 HEALTHCARE SPEAKER SERIES HIGHLIGHTS LEADING-EDGE MEDICINE

SIGN-UP REQUIRED

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The Legacy Foundation is pleased to present the 2021 Medical Breakthroughs & Discoveries Series, an annual healthcare speaker series designed to share updates on the latest advances in medical research and healthcare practice.

The presentations are free, but sign-up is required by contacting the Legacy Foundation at (239) 466-8484 to register. Seating is limited; masks are required.

MEDICAL BREAKTHROUGHS PIONEERED THROUGH U.S. FOREIGN AID PROGRAMS AND PRIVATE PHILANTHROPIES Monday, November 22 at 2 p.m. • The Village Church Presented by: John Norris, Deputy Director for Policy and Strategic Insight, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation As an accomplished author who has served in a number of senior roles in government, international institutions, and nonprofits, John Norris draws on his experience to discuss medical advances that have been accomplished through foreign aid and private philanthropy – including the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, which has for over 20 years been committed to fighting the greatest inequities in the world to ensure every person has the opportunity to live a healthy productive life.

MEET THE PRESENTER John Norris Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Deputy Director for Policy and Strategic Insight

In addition to his current role, John Norris has also served as the chief of political affairs for the United Nations Mission in Nepal; the Washington Chief of Staff for the International Crisis Group; Director of Communications for U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Strobe Talbott; and Speechwriter and Field Disaster Expert at the U.S. Agency for International Development.

He was a Senior Fellow at the Center for American Progress and the Executive Director of the Enough Project. In 2014, John was appointed by President Barack Obama to the President’s Global Development Council.

The Medical Breakthroughs & Discoveries Series is sponsored by:

Genesis Wealth Management

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November & December LifeQuest Happenings Six Dimensions: Physical • Emotional • Spiritual • Educational • Community & Social • Natural Environment CHECK THE WEEKLY REMINDER FOR UPDATES ON ANY CHANGES TO THE PROGRAMS LISTED IN THIS CALENDAR AS THINGS MAY CHANGE. For questions about upcoming events or activities, please contact either concierge desk. Unless otherwise noted, sign-up for each event will begin on the first business day of the month. If you are unable to attend a program that includes a fee, five business days’ notice is required to receive a refund.

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ECO CRUISE TO MATLACHA VIA SUZY Q WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 3 DEPART: 9:30 A.M. RETURN: 2:30 PM. COST: $10 (LUNCH ON YOUR OWN) Join us for a special trip up to Matlacha with Suzy Q Captain Russ Spence and our guide for the day: Steve Canton (Harbor Court), who is an aquatic ecologist with over 40 years of experience looking at water quality effects on aquatic life throughout the U.S. On the way, we'll look at some of the features of Pine Island Sound between Cape Coral and Pine Island. Plus, we'll learn about some of the research being done as part of the Punta Gorda-based Coastal & Heartland National Estuary Program. Once docked in Matlacha, you will have the opportunity to grab lunch at one of the local restaurants.

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FARMERS MARKET THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 4 9 A.M. TO NOON ADMINISTRATION COURTYARD/IS Enjoy the beauty of the Island Courtyard while shopping for

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locally grown produce, homemade baked goods, honey and other food-related items. There will also be a special salsa and guacamole cooking demonstration with samples for you to taste, along with live music provided by the Shell Point Strings. The Ma Petite Creperie food truck will be on site from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. offering delightful lunch options.

Special note: This season, we will be hosting the Farmers Market at Shell Point twice a month, as well as adding a special off-campus trip to another Farmers Market in the area. However, we will be having a food truck on Thursdays (except Thanksgiving) from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. by Friendship Point/Island parking lot with lunch options. Be sure to check the Weekly Reminder each week to see which Food Truck is visiting campus!

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WALK WITH THE DOCS FRIDAYS, NOVEMBER 5, 12, 19 DECEMBER 3, 10, 17 7 A.M. MEDICAL CENTER BUS STOP/IS Lace up your walking shoes and join Shell Point’s physicians every Friday morning in an exhilarating 1.5-mile morning walk around the beautiful Island neighborhood.

You will have the opportunity to learn about the medical staff while also getting physically fit together.

Mask requested

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Sign-up required; call a Concierge Desk: Island: 454-2282, Woodlands: 454-2054

Walking required

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BIKE WITH THE DOCS FRIDAYS, NOVEMBER 5, 12, 19 DECEMBER 3, 10, 17 4:15 PM MEDICAL CENTER BUS STOP/IS Hop on your bike and join Shell Point’s physicians every Friday for a 5-mile bike ride around the beautiful Shell Point campus. For your safety, helmets are required.

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We are excited to welcome The Jades, one of Southwest Florida’s newest oldies group, featuring Shell Point Front Desk Guest House team member Barbara McQuillen!

Come enjoy this FREE outside concert overlooking the lagoon and hear some of the greatest songs of the 50s and 60s. No sign-up is required. Bring your own snacks.

Beverages will be provided.

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This Rodgers and Hammerstein musical has touched the hearts of audiences around the world for decades. Follow Maria, the high-spirited, aspiring nun as she is sent from her convent to be the governess to seven unruly children of a strict father, Captain von Trapp. The timeless score includes Do-Re-Mi, My Favorite Things, Climb Every Mountain, Sixteen Going on Seventeen, Edelweiss and The Sound of Music.

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 10 8:30 / 8:40 / 8:50 / 8:55 / 9 A.M. IS / WDL / EST / ENC / EP APPROXIMATE RETURN: NOON FREE TRANSPORTATION

VETERANS DAY PROGRAM THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 11 11 A.M. THE VILLAGE CHURCH A brief Veterans Day program will follow Seth Mendell’s (Tellidora) Academy lecture about World War II from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Those arriving at 11 a.m. will be seated just for the Veterans Day portion of the program. Following the presentation, all are invited to enjoy a Veterans Day lunch social at The Crystal, where veterans will receive a 50% discount on their meal. Call The Crystal for reservations at (239) 454-2199.

BROADWAY PALM DINNER THEATRE: THE SOUND OF MUSIC WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 10 10:50 / 11 / 11:10 / 11:15 / 11:20 A.M. IS / WDL / EST / ENC / EP APPROXIMATE RETURN: 4 P.M. COST: $64 (INCLUDES LUNCH BUFFET, SHOW AND TRANSPORTATION)

LAKES PARK FARMERS MARKET

The outdoor Lakes Park Farmers Market features local produce, fresh seafood, native plants, cut flowers, artisan foods, and more. Shoppers are welcome to stay and eat breakfast or lunch at a picnic table while listening to live music and enjoying one of Lee County’s most beautiful parks. This event requires significant walking.

WATER’S EDGE CONCERT: THE JADES TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 9 6 P.M. FRIENDSHIP POINT/IS

Stairs

NAPLES SHOPPING EXCURSION: 5TH AVENUE SOUTH SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 13 8:40 / 8:50 / 9 / 9:10 / 9:25 A.M. IS / WDL / EST / ENC / EP APPROXIMATE RETURN: 3 P.M. COST: $6 (LUNCH ON YOUR OWN) Let’s go shopping at one of the nation’s most exclusive addresses, featuring a unique collection of shops that are an irresistible mix of glamour and charm. 5th Avenue South stretches from Tamiami Trail to the Gulf of Mexico in Old Naples and is home to upscale fashion and jewelry, spas, one-of-a-kind gifts, artwork, home décor, fine dining, and entertainment. What a wonderful way to spend a Southwest Florida Saturday!

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BEACH DAY ON SANIBEL MONDAY, NOVEMBER 15 8:30 / 8:40 / 8:50 / 8:55 / 9 A.M. IS / WDL / EST / ENC / EP APPROXIMATE RETURN: 2 P.M. COST: $18 (LUNCH INCLUDED, ICE CREAM ON YOUR OWN)

Frank’s Hot Dog food truck will be on site from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with plenty of tasty options.

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Let’s enjoy a relaxing day at the beach! Just a short trip away, the Sanibel Lighthouse Beach offers beautiful white sand and a multitude of seashells. A picnic-style lunch will be served for you. On the way home, we will make our traditional stop for ice cream at The Shack of Sanibel – the island’s newest frozen custard shop. Remember to bring your own chair, beach accessories, and sunscreen.

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FOOD TRUCK RALLY AT THE TRIBBY TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 16 • 5 – 6:30 PM OUTSIDE DRIVE/TRIBBY ARTS CENTER

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18 9 A.M. – NOON ADMINISTRATION COURTYARD/IS Come check out the freshest produce and more from local vendors at the Shell Point Farmers Market. Live music will be provided by local musician Michael Anthony. Uncle

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Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

LUNCH OUTING TO GREEN FLASH ON CAPTIVA

Why not join us on a lunch outing to The Green Flash Restaurant, Captiva Island’s finest waterfront restaurant with outdoor dockside dining? Situated on the waters of Roosevelt Channel, The Green Flash Restaurant overlooks the Intracoastal Waterway, the tranquil waters of Pine Island Sound, and the pristine beauty of Buck Key. You will enjoy the picturesque view, watch the wildlife, and ponder the elusive green flash while you await your culinary delight!

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 17 2:15 PM SOCIAL CENTER/IS

FARMERS MARKET

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 23 8:30 A.M. CENTER COURT/WDL

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 29 10 / 10:10 / 10:20 / 10:25 / 10:30 A.M. IS / WDL / EST / ENC / EP APPROXIMATE RETURN: 2 P.M. COST: $6 (LUNCH ON YOUR OWN)

SHELL POINT LIBRARY BOOK TALK

The third annual panel discussion by the medical staff of Shell Point will feature A Long Road to Goodbye by resident author Floyd Fought (King’s Crown). A new drug for the early treatment of Alzheimer’s will be the topic of discussion.

TURKEY TROT FUN WALK

Let’s get in some cardio before that big turkey dinner! Begin and end your fun walk or run at Center Court, where you can either take a “thankful” one-mile lap or go full “feast mode” with two laps around the Woodlands walking trail.

Grab a friend or two and enjoy a fun time together.

Enjoy Southwest Florida’s favorite food trucks right here at Shell Point, with Dave’s Cosmic Subs, Uncle Franks Hot Dogs, Big Smoke BBQ, and Horse Eyed Jake’s American Sliders. Live music and lawn games add to the fun!

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ECO CRUISE TO MATLACHA VIA SUZY Q WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 1 9:30 A.M. APPROXIMATE RETURN: 2:30 P.M. COST: $10 (PLUS LUNCH ON YOUR OWN) Join us for a special trip to Matlacha with Suzy Q Captain Russ Spence and our guide for the day: Steve Canton (Harbor Court), who is an aquatic ecologist with over 40 years of experience looking at water quality effects on aquatic life throughout the U.S. On the way, we'll look at

Mask requested

Sign-up required; call a Concierge Desk: Island: 454-2282, Woodlands: 454-2054

some of the features of Pine Island Sound between Cape Coral and Pine Island. Plus, we'll learn about some of the research being done as part of the Punta Gorda-based Coastal & Heartland National Estuary Program. Once docked in Matlacha, you will have the opportunity to grab lunch at one of the local restaurants.

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Walking required

Programming staff for a good time of fellowship and conversation. Light refreshments will be served.

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FLORIDA REPERTORY THEATRE: WEST SIDE STORY WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 8 11 / 11:10 / 11:20 / 11:25 / 11:30 A.M. IS / WDL / EST / ENC / EP APPROXIMATE RETURN: 4:30 P.M. COST: $65 (LUNCH ON YOUR OWN)

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY THURSDAY DECEMBER 2 FRIENDSHIP POINT/IS 6 P.M. WELCOME REMARKS AND PRAYER 6:10 P.M. TREE LIGHTING COUNT DOWN 6:15 P.M. LIVE ENTERTAINMENT BY THE NAPLES BRASS BAND It’s the kickoff to the holiday season at Shell Point! Mark your calendar and join us as we celebrate Shell Point’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting. The Naples Brass Band will be on hand playing all of your favorite Christmas songs. Come enjoy time with your Shell Point neighbors, grab a sweet treat, and sing along to your favorite carols while honoring the real meaning of Christmas.

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Stairs

ISLAND NEIGHBORHOOD HOLIDAY SOCIAL MONDAY, DECEMBER 6 3 P.M. SERENITY COVE/IS

In this Broadway musical, the iconic music and dance transport the story of Romeo and Juliet to the backstreets of New York in 1957. Tony and Maria are teenagers from opposing gangs who fall in love, but a deep rivalry threatens to keep them apart. Celebrating over 60 years onstage, West Side Story is an indelible American classic filled. After you enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants on First Street in downtown Fort Myers, we will meet at the theatre for this 2 p.m. matinee performance.

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SHOPPING EXCURSION TO MIROMAR OUTLETS THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9 9:30 / 9:40 / 9:50 / 9:55 / 10 A.M. IS / WDL / EST / ENC / EP APPROXIMATE RETURN: 3 P.M. COST: $6 (LUNCH ON YOUR OWN) Come along for a trip to Miromar Outlets in Estero to finish up your Christmas shopping. There’s something for everyone, with a wide variety of stores including Vera Bradley, Coach, Cole Hann, The Loft, Nike, Haggar and many more.

Enjoy strolling through the beautifully decorated mall and grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants.

Let’s get together! This month, enjoy an opportunity to meet, greet and connect with your neighbors. These drop-in events will take place at the various neighborhoods around campus. No sign-up is necessary. Mark your calendars to come out and join the Resident

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FARMERS MARKET THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9 9 A.M. – NOON ADMINISTRATION COURTYARD/IS

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16 7:15 P.M. THE VILLAGE CHURCH/IS

Come check out the freshest produce and more from local vendors at the Shell Point Farmers Market. Music provided

by Shell Point Strings. Uncle Frank’s Hot Dog food truck will be on site from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with plenty of tasty options.

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SHELL POINT WALK FOR THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION FRIDAY, DECEMBER 10 8:30 A.M. – MEET AT THE VILLAGE CHURCH PORTE COCHERE 8:50 A.M. – WALK STARTS

Join your friends and neighbors at the Village Church for the Shell Point Singers’ Holiday Fun and Faith concert.

Enjoy many of the familiar songs of the season as this talented group of musicians celebrates the holidays with song.

Free, no sign up required.

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Shell Point is hosting our own “Fun Walk” in support of the American Heart Association. Once again the Shell Point Thrift Store will provide a generous donation to the American Heart Association on behalf of our entire community. This walk for a good cause is also an excellent way to boost your physical and emotional health! You can do the 1-mile loop around The Island, or keep going for another mile and head out to the Woodlands. All you need to do is sign up and show up for what is sure to be a funfilled day all while supporting a great cause!

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WOODLANDS NEIGHBORHOOD HOLIDAY SOCIAL MONDAY, DECEMBER 13 3 P.M. BACK PATIO/WOODLANDS COMMONS Hello, Woodlands! This month, enjoy an opportunity to meet, greet and connect with your neighbors. These drop-in events will take place at the various neighborhoods around campus. No sign-up is necessary. Mark your calendars to come out and join the Resident Programming staff for a good time of fellowship and conversation. Light refreshments will be served.

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SUZY Q CAROLING

HOLIDAY BAKING AT KITCHEN SOCIAL FRIDAY, DECEMBER 17 11:05 / 11:15 / 11:25 / 11:30 / 11:35 A.M. IS / WDL / EST / ENC / EP APPROXIMATE RETURN: 3 P.M. COST: $55 The holidays are just around the corner, so there’s no better time to make professional-quality baked goods to share with family and friends! Let’s head to Kitchen Social in Fort Myers and let their chef walk you through making different kinds of simple, gourmet holiday treats – from truffles to cookies. Eat some there, and save a few to take home! Kitchen Social provides a comfortable, interactive personalized experience that you will be sure to enjoy.

Invite a few friends to come along with you. A light lunch of pizza appetizers will be served upon arrival.

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COASTAL LINKS NEIGHBORHOOD HOLIDAY SOCIAL MONDAY, DECEMBER 20 3 P.M. BANYAN BANQUET ROOM Calling out to Coastal Links! This month, enjoy an opportunity to meet, greet and connect with your neighbors. These drop-in events will take place at the various neighborhoods around campus. No sign up is necessary.

Mark your calendars to come out and join the Resident Programming staff for a good time of fellowship and conversation. Light refreshments will be served.

DECEMBER 14, 16, 17, 20, 21, 23 6 P.M. SUZY Q DOCK Celebrate the sights, lights and sounds of the season with some good old-fashioned caroling on the Suzy Q. Lift up your voices in song and spread the Christmas spirit as we cruise Palm Acres and the local waters. Cruises are 90 minutes long, and as tradition dictates, eggnog and cookies will be on hand for all carolers. Report to the dock no later than 5:45 p.m.

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SHELL POINT SINGERS HOLIDAY FUN AND FAITH CONCERT

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Mask requested

Sign-up required; call a Concierge Desk: Island: 454-2282, Woodlands: 454-2054

Walking required

Stairs

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EDISON AND FORD WINTER ESTATES HOLIDAY TOUR

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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 21 5:20 / 5:30 / 5:40 / 5:45 / 5:50 P.M. IS / WDL / EST / ENC / EP APPROXIMATE RETURN: 9:30 PM COST: $25

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 23 9 A.M. – NOON ADMINISTRATION COURTYARD/IS

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Come check out the freshest produce and more from local vendors at the Shell Point Farmers Market. Dave’s Cosmic Subs food truck will be on site from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with an array of delicious choices.

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MEDICAL LEARNING SERIES: HOW TO LIVE HEALTHY IN 2022 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 23 NOON SOCIAL CENTER/IS Dr. Gary Goforth will present specific strategies you can incorporate into your daily and weekly routines that will help you become healthier and achieve a more active lifestyle. Refreshments will be served. Be sure to register as seating is limited. Register at the Concierge Desks.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 29 6:00 P.M. • FREE Join us for an enjoyable evening out under the stars watching Hoosiers – “the best movie of all-time” – according to Resident Program Manager Jon High Starring Gene Hackman as Norman Dale, along with Barbara Hershey and Dennis Hopper, Hoosiers tells the story of a small-town Indiana high school basketball team and the obstacles they encounter as they compete for the state championship. Yes, it is a movie about basketball, but it also has a number of compelling storylines that will tug at your heartstrings.

Enjoy the dazzling display of thousands of Christmas lights and decorations at The Edison and Ford Winter Estates Holiday Nights Tour on McGregor Boulevard.

Stay tuned for more information in the Weekly Reminder and on Shell Point TV.

FARMERS MARKET

MOVIE NIGHT AT FRIENDSHIP POINT

FORT MYERS FARMERS MARKET THURSDAY, DECEMBER 30 8:30 / 8:40 / 8:50 / 8:55 / 9 A.M. IS / WDL / EST / ENC / EP APPROXIMATE RETURN: NOON We’ll head off campus to Centennial Park for the downtown Fort Myers Farmers Market to check out the bounty from Southwest Florida’s farmers.

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NEW YEAR’S EVE ‘SOLO’ PARTY MIXER FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31 1:30 PM. GRAND CYPRESS ROOM/WDLS You don’t want to miss the Shell Point Solo Christmas Party! What is a solo party? You come as a party of one to meet new people, connect with other Shell Point residents, and make new friends. Socialize and participate in Christmas-themed activities, games and brain teasers in a comfortable setting. Refreshments will be provided and beverages will be served in, what else but … a Solo cup!

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At the Tribby As summer winds down, things are heating up at the Tribby. Our 2021-22 concert season will get a red carpet kick off on November 4 and 5 with the 17-piece Charlie Rosen Broadway Big Band, and continues with 17 more concerts through the end of March 2022. Residents groups, including The Illusionists Club, Jazz ‘N Stuff, The Shell Point Singers, and the Musicians Guild, all have performances scheduled, and the Writers Guild is launching a monthly open mic poetry reading the first Wednesday of each month. Read on to see all the Tribby has to offer…and to get a sneak peek at the full 2022 gallery schedule.

BY MICHAEL WEISS, FINE AND PERFORMING ARTS MANAGER

HOLIDAY CHEER

THE ARTS LIBRARY THE LITERARY LOUNGE

Ornaments created by members of the Crafters Guild

TRIBBY CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19 1 P.M. • THE GRAND ATRIUM Sure to become an annual tradition, join us as we light the Tribby’s first Christmas tree! Organized by the Crafters Guild, the 15-foot tree will feature over 500 custom-made ornaments from all of the Tribby studios and the Wood Shop. Vintage Brass will perform holiday favorites.

A MUSICIANS GUILD MERRY CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY CONCERT SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11 2 P.M. • CONNIE BROWN HALL FREE Featuring Jazz ‘N Stuff, Nostalgia, Seabreeze, Vintage Brass, special soloists and more. Tickets are required for this free event; available now at Tribby box office.

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Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

A monthly focus on parts of the Arts Library’s 1,500-volume collection continues. NOVEMBER features books on Impressionism, one of the most beloved and familiar of all art movements. But in 1870s Paris, the small group of artists who developed it were viewed as radicals. In conflict with “academy” norms, Impressionism featured freer strokes, color and changing natural light, often done outdoors. Included in the developing group were Claude Monet, Auguste Renoir, Alfred Sisley, Camille Pissarro, and Paul Cezanne among others. DECEMBER focuses on four great sculptors: Donatello and Michelangelo of the Renaissance era in Florence; Rodin of late 19th century Paris; and Henry Moore of 20th century England. Each made innovative and lasting changes to sculpture.

RESIDENT PERFORMING ARTS INTRODUCTION TO JAZZ DANCING WITH RAVAH DALEY MONDAYS: NOVEMBER 1, 8, 15, 22, AND 29 WEDNESDAYS: NOVEMBER 3, 10, 17, 24 AND DECEMBER 1 11 A.M. TO 12:15 P.M. • PERFORMING ARTS STUDIO $65 FOR 5 SESSIONS; $115 FOR 10 SESSIONS MONDAYS, DECEMBER 6, 13, 20, 27 WEDNESDAYS, DECEMBER 8, 15, 22, 29 11 A.M. TO 12:15 P.M. • PERFORMING ARTS STUDIO $50 FOR 4 SESSIONS; $80 FOR 8 SESSIONS Ravah Daley, a jazz dancer who has shared the stage with Mikhail Baryshnikov and Tina Turner, offers a dynamic course that features the famous “Luigi Jazz Technique” warm up and dances to classic jazz music.

This jazz technique was designed to align the body and prevent injuries.

No previous dance experience is required, and we encourage “curious beginners” to enroll. Sign up required.

THE ILLUSIONISTS (L-R): David Lee (Lucina) Jay Wright (The Estuary) Charles Ketteman (Eagles Preserve) Terry Furhovden (The Estuary) Warrin Meyers (The Estuary) Bill Colehower (The Estuary) Kenneth Saccaro (The Estuary) William Stell (The Estuary) Not pictured: Dick Brown (Parkwood)

A MAGICAL EVENING WITH THE ILLUSIONISTS CLUB FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12 7 P.M. • CONNIE BROWN HALL FREE Be amazed and amused as silks and flowers appear from everywhere, balloons do the most unnatural things, and mentalists astound you with their predictions. There will be audience participation and more than a few laughs – some even intentional! “We’ve been practicing diligently for the performance and we’re having a great time,” said Warrin Meyers, founder of the Illusionist Club. “Most of us have never done something like this before, so it’s a challenge, but it’s fun even if some tricks don’t turn out the way we practiced.” Tickets are required and available for free now at the Tribby Box Office.

JAZZ N’ STUFF EVERY WEDNESDAY 2:30 P.M. • CONNIE BROWN HALL NOVEMBER 3 – THE COMPOSERS, IRVING BERLIN 10 – THE COMPOSERS, RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN 17 – THE COMPOSERS, JOHNNY MERCER DECEMBER 1 – THE COMPOSERS, RODGERS & HART 8 – THE COMPOSERS, COLE PORTER 15 – CHRISTMAS MUSIC PART 1 22 – CHRISTMAS MUSIC PART 2 29 – FROM THE ATTIC Shell Point’s resident big band offers free Wednesday concerts each week that are sure to put a spring in your step and a song in your heart!

SHELL POINT PLAYERS FIRST AND THIRD FRIDAYS 2 P.M. • CONNIE BROWN HALL As the holidays approach, Shell Point Players will get in the spirit of the season. Friday, November, 19 and Friday, December 17, they will present Writers Guild SPARKLE selections. On Friday, December 3, holiday-themed skits and readings will be featured. You can participate, or you can relax in the audience. Everyone is invited to attend!

(Note: No performance November 5)

SHELL POINT DRUMMERS (FORMERLY PERCUSSION WORKSHOP) EVERY MONDAY 10 A.M. INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED 11 A.M. BEGINNERS DRUMS PROVIDED $10 PER SESSION Start your week off with a bang when you join the Shell Point Drummers on Monday mornings at the Tribby! You’ll have a blast playing on hand drums with fellow residents under the direction of professional percussionist Isaac Fernández Hernández. Sign up at the Concierge Desks.

“Drumming is a great way to enjoy music, learn new rhythms and have fun, while giving your cognitive skills a real workout.”

– Geri Harrand (Eagles Preserve) Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

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At the Tribby WRITERS GUILD WORKSHOP: POETRY WITH NICK RANSON TUESDAYS, NOVEMBER 2, 9 3 – 4 P.M. • LITERARY STUDIO Nick Ranson (Periwinkle), who served as Associate Professor and Chair of the English Department at University of Akron, Ohio, continues his poetry workshop. Open to all who wish to take their writing skills to the next level by receiving informed and sympathetic response and input. Sign up at the Concierge Desks.

AUTHOR TALK: MICHELLE FISHBURNE, WHO WE ARE NOW: WHAT WE LOST AND FOUND DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 17 4 P.M. • LOCATION TBD Michelle Fishburne, daughter of Stokes and Patricia Fishburne (Estuary), traveled 12,000 miles across America interviewing hundreds of ordinary people about their lives during the pandemic.

Her book has been covered by ABC-TV and many publications, and her COVID-19 oral history will be preserved for posterity by Purdue University Institute, where she is a scholar in residence. Register at the Concierge Desks.

READING: GIFT OF THE MAGI AND CHRISTMAS STORY WITH ALBERT MYERS WORKSHOP: POETRY OF ROBERT FROST WITH DOUG CARTWRIGHT TUESDAYS, NOVEMBER 16, 23, 30 3 – 4 P.M. • LITERARY STUDIO Retired high school English teacher Doug Cartwright (Lakewood), who has taught courses in drama, American literature, grammar, speech, analytical and creative writing, and journalism, presents a series of three workshops on Robert Frost. The first session introduces Frost – from his approach and definition of poetry and his body of work in general, to his career as a New England farmer, poet, and teacher – using some of his most famous poems, including: “Stopping By Woods on a Snowy Evening,” “Birches,” “Nothing Gold Can Stay,” and others. The second session examines Frost’s poetry based on a close reading of many misinterpreted poems, including “Mending Wall,” “The Road Not Taken,” “Take Something Like a Star,” and others. The third session explores the wit and whimsical side of his poetry, starting with "Departmental,” “Fire and Ice,” and “A Dust of Snow.”

Sign up at the Concierge Desks.

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Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

MONDAY, DECEMBER 13 3 P.M. • LITERARY LOUNGE Akron, Ohio native Albert Myers (The Arbor) has a doctorate in theology and ethics from Vanderbilt University and several masters-level degrees. He was a long-time member of Shell Point’s Own Theater (SPOT) and Play Readers, and he is a regular participant in three Shell Point discussion groups.

Refreshments will be provided to celebrate this festive season. All are welcome. No sign-up required.

IN THE GALLERIES

TRIBBY CHALLENGE EXHIBITIONS: PART III

SPARKLE: IN FUNCTION

THROUGH DECEMBER 24 LEGACY AND OVERLOOK GALLERIES

THROUGH NOVEMBER 27, TUESDAY- SATURDAY 10 A.M. – 3 P.M. • SHELL POINT GALLERY

ABOUT FACE

Shell Point potters were challenged to create works that incorporate or suggest faces.

Presented as art, such things as teapots, beach paths, weathered fences, wooden kegs, worn gears and more are transformed. Fabric becomes collage, utensils are in balance and tiny jars are meant to hold dreams.

LITTLE BY LITTLE

Shell Point painters were challenged to create a small (8” x 10”) painting or drawing.

MOVING FORWARD

Shell Point woodworkers were challenged to create kinetic sculptures.

SPARKLE: ENCORE

SERENDIPITY: THE SHOP AT TRIBBY ARTS CENTER

DECEMBER 2 - 24, TUESDAY- SATURDAY 10 A.M. – 3 P.M. • SHELL POINT GALLERY The culmination of the six previous SPARKLE shows, ENCORE brings back all the award-winning pieces (Best in Show; Best Interpretation of Theme; Young at Art; Judge’s Choice; and People’s Choice awards) in this grand finale of the Tribby’s inaugural exhibition series. From this group of initial award-winners, judges will select and announce six SPARKLE Grand Prize Winners during Art Chat LIVE!, an event open to all residents at 4 p.m. on Thursday, December 2 in Connie Brown Hall.

TUESDAY THROUGH SATURDAY 10 A.M. – 3 P.M. Located within the Shell Point Gallery, the shop features works by Shell Point artists and craftspeople.

ART CHAT LIVE & SPARKLE AWARDS PRESENTATION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2 4 - 4:45 P.M. CONNIE BROWN HALL • FREE Join Marge Lee (Lucina), host of the Shell Point TV segment Art Chat, in this lively presentation on the stage of Connie Brown Hall. Marge will be joined by the three members of the faculty and staff from Florida Gulf Coast University’s Bower School of Music & the Arts who judged the SPARKLE! series of exhibitions. The six grand prize winners of the SPARKLE! exhibitions will be announced, and the judges will share their thoughts about the overall body of resident works in the series and the six winning artworks.

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At the Tribby Our Biggest Season Ever!

SPONSORED BY

2021|2022

SHELL POINT CONCERT SERIES

A 17-piece Big Band and trio of Broadway vocalists kick off Shell Point’s biggest season ever.

CHARLIE ROSEN’S BROADWAY BIG BAND TWO PERFORMANCES!

Thursday, November 4 at 7 p.m. and Friday, November 5 at 7 p.m.

Resident Tickets: $45 Don’t miss the season kick off as Broadway goes Big Band in this concert created by Tony Awardwinner Broadway Music Director, Arranger and Orchestrator, Charlie Rosen.

Get ready for an evening of big band arrangements of some of Broadway’s most popular tunes, including selections from Anything Goes, Carousel, Guys and Dolls, Hello, Dolly!, Kiss Me Kate, Sweet Charity, West Side Story, and more.

Walk the red carpet as Shell Point’s paparazzi snap photos and video of this exciting event! Each guest will also receive a sweet treat at the end of CHARLIE ROSEN this special evening.

Rosen is one of Broadway’s fastest rising talents, and has become one of the most sought after orchestrators and arrangers. His work can be heard in recent Broadway productions, including Be More Chill, Prince of Broadway, Honeymoon in Vegas, and Moulin Rouge. He has also done orchestrations/ arrangements for concerts at Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall, as well as for the Boston Pops; Neil Patrick Harris’ Best Time Ever on NBC; the Williamstown Theater Festival; the Public Theater; and The Kennedy Center.

GERARD CANONICO

From the Broadway productions of Les Miserables, Spring Awakening and American Idiot

KEITH WHITE

From the Broadway production of A Bronx Tale

Tribby Box Office • Tuesday through Saturday from 10 A.M. to 3 P.M. • (239) 415-5667 38

Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

THE VEGA QUARTET with Pianist William Ransom

Nate Dorn, Dorn Brothers Photography

Thursday, November 11 at 7 p.m. • Resident Tickets: $35 Sponsored by Madge and Chuck Ringbakk The Vega Quartet has won international awards, including the Bordeaux String Quartet Competition, as well as top prizes from the Coleman Chamber Ensemble Competition, the Carmel Chamber Music Competition, and the National Society of Arts and Letters String Quartet Competition.

They have toured throughout the world, including performances in Weill and Zankel Halls at Carnegie Hall, and Duke Hall at the Royal Academy of Music in London. Its members have collaborated with some of the world’s finest musicians including Eliot Fisk, Christopher O’Riley, William Preucil, Richard Stoltzman, Robert Spano, Charles Wadsworth and the Eroica Trio.

A graduate of The Juilliard School, William Ransom regularly appears in recital, as soloist with orchestras, and as a chamber musician throughout the world. He has performed in New York's Weill Hall at Carnegie Hall and in Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center.

“His playing really caught fire, filling the hall with WILLIAM pianistic sparks that brought the audience to its feet.”

RANSOM – The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Program includes: Antonín Dvořák

String Quartet No. 12, in F Major, Op. 96 “American”

I. Allegro ma non troppo

Piano Quintet No 2, in A Major, Op. 81

I. Allegro ma non tanto Maurice Ravel

String Quartet in F Major

II. Assez vif, Très rythmé

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

String Quartet No. 1, in D Major, Op. 11

II. Andante cantabile Ludwig van Beethoven

String Quartet No. 9, in C Major, Op. 59 No. 3

IV. Allegro molto George Gershwin

Rhapsody in Blue for Piano Solo

THE DEPUE BROTHERS BAND Tuesday, November 23 at 7 p.m. • Resident Tickets: $45 The DePue Brothers Band encompasses a vivid blend of bluegrass, classical and rock genres. They coined the term “grassical music,” pioneering this style in the early 1990s.

Each of the DePue brothers is a classical violin virtuoso in his own right and brings rich and diverse talents to their sound. Their music is a family affair that they joyfully fit in among individual careers, and their concerts are an exhilarating mix of styles and music from Copland to Van Halen.

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At the Tribby KASSIA ENSEMBLE with Mary Elizabeth Bowden, Trumpeter Tuesday, November 30 at 7 p.m. • Resident Tickets: $35 Based in the Pittsburgh area, Kassia Ensemble’s members hold positions in the Pittsburgh Opera and Ballet orchestras, the West Virginia Symphony, the Wheeling Symphony, and the Erie Philharmonic.

Classical trumpeter Mary Elizabeth Bowden has been described by Gramophone magazine as “brilliant” and “radiant in new repertoire for trumpet.”

She has performed with orchestras throughout the U.S., won First Prize in the International Women’s Brass Trumpet Competition, and is a Gold Medal Global Music Award Winner.

MARY ELIZABETH BOWDEN

Program includes: Giacomo Puccini “Nessun dorma” from Turandot

Hoagy Carmichael “Stardust”

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Rondo Alla Turca

THE FOUR FRESHMEN

Tuesday, December 7 at 7 p.m. • Resident Tickets: $45 Sponsored by Penny Wilkinson and Dick Boehning When the original Four Freshmen came together in 1948 at Butler University, they initially performed as a barbershop quartet. When they shifted to lush, jazzinspired vocal arrangements, they created a sound that has endured for six decades, and influenced generations of other artists, including Brian Wilson, The Mamas & the Papas and The Manhattan Transfer.

They have recorded 50 albums, 70 top-selling singles, and received six Grammy nominations. Downbeat magazine readers named them Best Vocal Group five times, and they were inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2001.

Although the group’s singers have changed through the years, the vocal harmonies that started on a college campus continue to be enjoyed by audiences around the world to this day.

“The Four Freshmen have endured for the simple reason that they are tops in their class.” — Charles Osgood, CBS Sunday Morning

Tribby Box Office • Tuesday through Saturday from 10 A.M. to 3 P.M. • (239) 415-5667 40

Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

InternationallyAcclaimed Vocal Quartet

A JAZZY LITTLE CHRISTMAS with Ernie Haase and Signature Sound Friday, December 10 at 7 p.m. • Resident Tickets: $35

One of the most popular and beloved quartets in all of Southern Gospel music, Ernie Haase and Signature Sound (EHSS) has performed in front of millions at concerts worldwide, a feat that has not been accomplished by any other Southern Gospel quartet. The group’s tight harmonies, exceptional musicianship, showmanship, and warm humor have won them legions of fans.

Grammy-nominated and Dove Award-winning, EHSS is a radio favorite in the United States and internationally and a leader in CD sales and long-form music video sales, with several Gold and Platinum DVDs. With a vintage vocal sound and a program of Christmas classics and seasonal sacred songs, A Jazzy Little Christmas is overflowing with holiday cheer.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA SYMPHONY’S HOLIDAY POPS Monday, December 13 at 7 p.m. at The Village Church Resident Tickets: $37 The Southwest Florida Symphony returns to Shell Point for its annual Christmas concert. This year’s performance will be the Symphony’s brassiest, featuring favorite holiday tunes with the flair of a merry and bright Big Band!

THE PIANO MEN starring Jim Witter Celebrating the Music of Billy Joel and Elton John Thursday, January 6 at 7 p.m. • Resident Tickets: $45 Award-winning Canadian recording artist Jim Witter has been charming audiences for more than 20 years with his renditions of Billy Joel and Elton John hits, such as Candle in the Wind, Rocket Man, Your Song, Crocodile Rock, and Just the Way You Are. Witter and his talented band take audiences back to the 1970s, revisiting the people, sights, sounds, newspaper headlines, and even TV shows that shaped the decade—year-by-year, hit-by-hit—through the widely popular songbooks of Billy Joel and Elton John.

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At the Tribby ANNOUNCING THE TRIBBY’S

2022 Exhibitions

BY MARGE LEE, (LUCINA) R E S I D E N T C U R AT O R

In 2022, Tribby Arts Center offers a variety of exhibition experiences to engage all residents of Shell Point. Display of works by Shell Point resident artists continues to play a prominent role in the coming year. In addition, and new this year, display of work by outside artists provides additional interest to help expand our audiences.

JANUARY The Shell Point Gallery’s SHELLEBRITY exhibition displays new paintings incorporating shell motifs by popular Sanibel artist Myra Roberts, paired with a display of intricate shell arrangements by resident Gos Gosselin (Cameo) and a series of progressively sized, wooden nautilus sculptures created for this exhibition by resident Dennis Staley (Lucina).

In the Legacy Gallery, Shell Point presents the works of the 2022 Legacy Artist Honoree, Phil Hilton (The Springs).

Also in January, in conjunction with The Academy of Lifelong Learning, the Overlook Gallery presents OUT OF AFRICA: Works Inspired by the Life and Writings of Karen Blixen. Participating Shell Point artists include painters Sandy Ehlers (Oakmont) and Karen Meredith (Lakewood), photographer Gerald Langberg (Sundial), and potter Bob Kaplan (Turban).

FEBRUARY All Tribby Arts Center galleries display Ageless Creativity II, a non-juried exhibition that invites all Shell Point resident artists to submit one work, with no limitations on date of creation. Details are in the Call for Entries now available at the Tribby Box Office and all Concierge Desks.

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Left: Shellebrity by Myra Roberts Below: Flower Arrangement by Karen Meredith

MARCH As part of the goal to forge partnerships with colleague arts organizations, the Shell Point Gallery hosts IMAGINARY LINES: Artworks by the Sanibel-Captiva Art League. This large group of talented artists includes some Shell Point artists.

Also beginning in March, members of the Shell Point Wood Shop and the Photo Club display their creative works for two months in the Legacy and Overlook Galleries. The 2022 Art Show and Sale

Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

takes place in the Shell Point Gallery from March 31 through April 2.

APRIL The Shell Point Gallery presents THE STYLE OF PLACE: New Works

by Suzanne Bennett (Turban), Keith Johnson, and Peter Zell. All three award-winning painters – Suzanne being the Shell Point artist in the trio – are painting pictures of the same ten local scenes.

The fascinating differences in the paintings

Saturn “Mercury” by Collette Crutcher from Hubcap as Art

demonstrate the important role that artistic style plays in creating art.

MAY/JUNE All Tribby galleries present ON THE ROAD AGAIN: The Hubcap as Art. This quirky and fascinating exhibition displays artworks on loan from the Landfillart Project. The works have been created by professional artists, from around the globe, on or with discarded hubcaps. You will not want to miss this exhibition!

JULY/AUGUST The fun continues with FIREWORKS & FISHIN’: Scenes of Summer and the Fish-art Challenge.

This exhibition, which invites all Shell Point artists to create art that speaks of summer, with a special challenge to create three-dimensional works of or evoking

Bowditch Beach by Suzanne Bennett (Turban)

fish, is not juried, but works must have been created since July 2019. Registration details will be announced after January 2022. In the Legacy Gallery, GONE FISHIN’: Woodworks by Roger Ruth and Tom Young continues the theme, while WINGIN’ IT: Photography by Sallie Rich presents stunning avian photos, including some surprising images that will make you laugh.

SEPTEMBER /OCTOBER Tribby Arts Center hosts an inspiring exhibition of artworks curated and toured by the Prison Art Project. In this Shell Point Gallery exhibition, you will see the work and learn the stories of people who are incarcerated and finding strength and hope through faith and creativity. The Legacy and Overlook Galleries will display work by members of the Glass and Pottery Studios.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER Ending the 2022 season in the Shell Point Gallery is FLORA & FAUNA: The Art of Nature in Paint and Clay, presenting work by resident artists Augusta Crane (Parkwood), Betsy Conrad (The Estuary), Renée Chastant (Harbor Court), and Annie Wainwright (Parkwood), and nonresident artist, potter Martha Grattan.

The Legacy and Overlook Galleries display works created by members of the Quilting Studio and Painters Guild.

With its wide and varied themes and mediums by so many artists, the exhibition program of Tribby Arts Center provides something of interest for our residents and the greater Fort Myers community. Whether you create art or simply enjoy viewing it, there is something for you in the exhibitions of Tribby Arts Center in 2022. Be sure to visit often and experience the joy it brings.

Right: Image from Unconfined Creativity: Works from the Prison Art Project Far right: A River Runs Through It. Wood table with inlay by Tom Young (Turban)

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Music

on

Mondays

A series of world-class performances by renowned artists, Music on Mondays is presented on the big screen in Connie Brown Hall at Tribby Arts Center on Mondays at 1 p.m., and broadcast on SPTV Channel 12 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 8

Claudio Abbado conducts November 8

The Berlin Philharmonic

Claudio Abbado, best known for his work as Music Director for La Scala (1971-1986), conducts the Berlin Philharmonic along with the Swedish Radio Choir, the Eric Ericson Chamber Choir, Barbara Bonney and Bryn Terfel in A German Requiem by Johannes Brahms. Premiered in 1868, this is Brahm’s longest composition, a profoundly moving piece progressing from darkness to light. Many have noted that unlike traditional requiems that offer prayers for the souls of the dead, Brahms’ German Requiem is more concerned with offering comfort to the living.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 22

Nicholas Angelich with Quator Ebene

American pianist Nicholas Angelich, considered one of the great pianists of our time, is joined by the Quator Ebene, a French string quartet known for its versatility and mastery of the Beethoven quartets. In this concert, Angelich and the Ebene Quartet are performing a Franck Piano Quintet and a Beethoven string Quartet at the 2010 Verbier Festival, an international classical music event that takes place each summer in the mountain town of Verbier, Switzerland.

November 22

MONDAY, DECEMBER 6

Jascha Heifetz, December 6

God’s Fiddler (Documentary)

Jascha Heifetz, God’s Fiddler, offers an inside look at the life of one of the twentieth century’s most influential violinists. The program includes rare film and audio clips and features interviews with prominent contemporary violinists and former Heifetz students. It follows Heifetz from child prodigy roots in Russia, where he was a student of Leopold Auer at the Saint Petersburg Conservatory, to his immigration to the United States and longtime residence in Southern California. In addition to his private and somewhat lonely personal temperament, the documentary highlights Heifetz’s rigorous sense of discipline and emphasis on scales.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 20

Bach’s Christmas Oratorio December 20

Over the course of his life, Bach composed many oratorios that became the bedrock of the modern classical music canon. One of his most celebrated of the genre is his 1734 masterpiece, Christmas Oratorio. Soprano Dorothee Mields, countertenor Damien Guillon, tenor Thomas Hobbs, and bass Peter Kooij join the celebrated Collegium Vocale Ghent under their music director and founder, Belgian conductor Philippe Herreweghe, for a performance of J.S. Bach's beloved Christmas Oratorio at Brussels' Palais des Beaux-Arts in 2012.

Music on Mondays is underwritten by the Friends of the Tribby.

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Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

Shell Point Film Society presents

Movies

at The Tribby MONDAY NIGHT MUSICALS 7 P.M. in CONNIE BROWN HALL ALSO ON SPTV/CHANNEL 12

Seven Brides For Seven Brothers (1954)

SUNDAY CINEMA MATINEES 3 P.M. in CONNIE BROWN HALL ALSO ON SPTV/CHANNEL 12

The Empire of the Sun (1987)

Monday, November 1 Directed by Stanley Donen, this foot-stomping musical with choreography by Michael Kidd stars Jane Powell and Howard Keel.

Hard to believe that this classic was considered by MGM to be a “B” picture; they had higher aspirations for the more expensive Brigadoon. For this reason the studio slashed the budget, forcing Donen to use painted backdrops instead of filming on location.

Sunday, November 7 Steven Spielberg directs this story of an English boy interred in a Japanese camp during World War II. Jamie, played by Christian Bale, is separated from his parents, but meets two American hustlers played by John Malkovich and Joe Pantoliano. Based on the semi-autobiographical novel by J.G. Ballard, the film was nominated for six Academy Awards, all of which were lost to The Last Emperor.

The Unsinkable Molly Brown (1964)

Sunday, November 21 Grifters Robert Redford and Paul Newman team up for the ultimate con in this winner of seven Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director for George Roy Hill, who directed Redford and Newman four years earlier in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Regarded as having one of the best screenplays ever written, The Sting was selected for preservation in the U.S. National Film Registry of the Library of Congress as being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.”

Monday, November 15 Debbie Reynolds stars as Molly Tobin (based on the real life Margaret Brown, a survivor of the Titanic), who “strikes it rich” when she marries goldminer J.J. Brown, played by Harve Presnell. Directed

by Charles Walters, this Meredith Wilson musical is Reynolds’ only Oscar-nominated performance and a personal favorite of all her movies.

Oklahoma (1956)

Monday, November 29 This Rodgers and Hammerstein musical (Oscar winner for best musical score) stars Shirley Jones (making her film debut) and Gordon MacRae. Keep an eye out for James Whitmore playing Gloria Grahame’s father (Ado Annie), despite being only two years older than her. Tone deaf, Grahame sang without dubbing, which required that her songs be edited together from recordings made almost literally note by note.

The Music Man (1962)

Monday, December 27 Shirley Jones and Robert Preston star in this Meredith Wilson classic directed by Morton DaCosta, who also directed the original Broadway production. Preston originated the character of Harold Hill on Broadway. As Hollywood does when adapting stage works, the studio sought a star – Frank Sinatra. However, Wilson was opposed to the idea and told them it was Preston or nothing. Warner Brothers then offered the part to Cary Grant, who had the good sense to insist that the part could only be played by Preston.

The Sting (1973)

The Man Who Invented Christmas (2017) Sunday, December 5 Dan Stevens, Christopher Plummer and Jonathan Pryce star in this biographical glimpse into the life of Charles Dickens.

Facing bankruptcy, Dickens must come up with a winning novel in six weeks. The result is “A Christmas Carol,” the timeless tale that would redefine Christmas and add “Scrooge” to the English lexicon.

Joyeux Noel (2005)

Sunday, December 19 Based on a series of true events during World War I, when numerous sections of the Western Front called an informal and unauthorized truce to peacefully meet in No Man’s Land on Christmas Eve. Oscarnominated for Best Foreign Film, the film features operatic vocals performed by Natalie Dessay and Rolando Villazon.

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Finishing Strong, Together

Generous Contributor Offers $1 Million Challenge Grant to Help Complete the Larsen Health Center Campaign B Y J E F F C O R Y, E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R , L E G A C Y F O U N D A T I O N

The Challenge One anonymous Shell Point resident has established a $1 million challenge grant designed to inspire the charitable spirit of other residents to accelerate the successful completion of the $20 million campaign for the new Larsen Health Center prior to its opening. Every gift designated to the Larsen Health Center before December 31, 2021 will be matched dollar for dollar.

The bottom line...if together we raise $1 million in new gifts and pledges before December 31, 2021, the Vision 2020 goal will be achieved. Every gift will make a meaningful life-changing effect on you, your neighbors, and the caring staff at Larsen Health Center.

Donors can make gifts or pledge commitment payable to Shell Point (for Larsen Health Center Challenge). To learn more about the Larsen Health Center $1 Million

Construction of the new Larsen Health Center is expected to conclude before the end of the year, with a planned opening in early 2022.

Let’s FINISH STRONG together!

Larsen Health Center $1 MILLION CHALLENGE

Challenge or the benefits of gifts of appreciated stock, real estate, IRA gifts or available named giving opportunities, please

contact Jeff Cory or Maria Festa at the Legacy Foundation at (239) 466-8484 to schedule your appointment today.

Caregivers Connection

Day Retreat at The Springs Shell Point’s Day Retreat at The Springs is a program of supervised planned activities for people with memory impairment. Many caregivers use the Day Retreat program as a respite or “break” from caregiving. It is a time for the caregiver to participate in activities or just take a nap, knowing that their spouse is safe. But another important aspect or “jewel” that a caregiver recently shared is that the Day Retreat program is also an opportunity for the person with memory changes to have a “break” from their caregiver!

Memory impairment can be isolating, as the person starts having more difficulty maintaining friendships and participating in activities. As participation in outside activities dwindle for the person with mem46

ory impairment and they spend more time at home, the caregiver becomes their main source of interaction.

Daily responsibilities like laundry, bill paying, and appointment scheduling takes the caregiver’s time and attention away from their loved one with memory impairment. It’s challenging to be chef, cook, bottle washer and the prime source of entertainment for another person!

By participating in Day Retreat, the spouse with memory impairment maintains connections with others, which can facili-

Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

tate the person being more accepting of receiving other types of care, such as home care or transitioning to Assisted Living. Day Retreat activities also provide cognitive stimulation and can contribute to a greater sense of well-being.

For more information on Day Retreat program, contact your Healthy Living Coordinator at (239) 454-2299.

Do you have a caregiver tip or “jewel” to share with others? Whether you think your tip is a diamond, emerald or ruby, all are valuable so please share the wealth! Please send your tip to Emilyreese@shellpoint.org.

HEARING ENRICHMENT

Support Groups ALCOHOLIC ANONYMOUS THURSDAYS, NOVEMBER 4, 11, 18, 25; DECEMBER 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 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 alcohol addiction. This AA meeting welcomes those who struggle with alcohol issues. For information, call the intergroup phone number, (239) 275-5111.

CONNECTIONS CIRCLE - CAREGIVER SUPPORT WEDNESDAYS, NOVEMBER 17; DECEMBER 15 10 A.M. SPRINGS COMMUNITY ROOM This group offers support for residents or family members that are caregivers for someone with dementia. Participants will have the opportunity to connect with fellow caregivers, share ideas and discuss the stresses, challenges and rewards of providing care for a loved one. If there is a need for respite, a coinciding group offering supervised activities for your loved one with dementia is available. Pre-registration is required. If you have questions about the group, contact Emily Reese, Connections Program Coordinator, (239) 454-2134 or call Channelle Bastardo, Healthy Living Coordinator at (239) 433-7974 to register your loved one for the supervised activity program.

DIABETES SUPPORT FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 5; DECEMBER 3 1 P.M. SOCIAL CENTER\IS Anyone impacted by Diabetes or looking to learn more including spouses or family members are invited to attend the Diabetes Support Group. Each monthly meeting covers a different topic and includes an open discussion and an opportunity to share. Call Healthy Living Supervisor Vivian Ciulla (239) 225-2929 for more information.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 1, 29 1:15 P.M. SOCIAL CENTER/IS Poor hearing can affect many aspects of one’s life. This group seeks to help residents cope with hearing loss, share information, learn about services and products that may help and offer support to each other. This is a great opportunity to try out the assisted listening devices available in the Social Center. For more information, call Healthy Living Coordinator Robert Torres at (239) 433-7975.

PARKINSON’S ENRICHMENT TUESDAYS, NOVEMBER 2; DECEMBER 7 10:15 A.M. SOCIAL CENTER/IS The Parkinson’s Enrichment Group aims to provide support and educational opportunities to those affected by Parkinson’s disease as a patient, caregiver, family member, or friend. Meetings include speakers, group discussions, and emotional support. For more information, call Healthy Living Coordination at (239) 454-2299.

HEART HEALTHY MONDAYS, NOVEMBER 1; DECEMBER 6 10 A.M. MANATEE ROOM/IS The Heart Healthy group aims to provide support and educational information to individuals living with heart disease. The goal of the group is to allow members to share their experience, fears and solutions in an effort to help everyone from the newly diagnosed to those managing heart disease for many years. For more information, please call Healthy Living Coordinator Nola Mokeyane at (239) 433-7976.

VISION ENRICHMENT TUESDAYS, NOVEMBER 9; DECEMBER 14 2:15 P.M. SOCIAL CENTER/IS This group provides educational opportunities and support for those individuals dealing with low vision. Discussions may include the emotional aspects of vision loss, investigating solutions, helpful tools, and sharing resources. At every session, you will learn a “quick eye exercise” that you can utilize at home and share with others. Please join us to share your story, your knowledge, as well as your experiences with other residents. For additional information, contact Healthy Living Coordinator Katy Quinones at (239) 454-2101.

GRIEFSHARE

THURSDAYS, NOVEMBER 4, 11, 18, 25 DECEMBER 2, 9,16, 23, 30 1:30 P.M. SABAL ROOM/WDL This thirteen-week program provides help and encouragement after the death of a loved one. GriefShare is a special weekly seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life. We know it hurts and we want to help. Led by Jim and Judy Mayer (Junonia). Call them at (239) 454-3139 for additional information.

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Nativities from Around the World

Each piece represents a moment, a memory

BY KARA HADO

When traveling, it’s common practice to commemorate one's trip with a memento as a reminder of a time in a wonderful place with loved ones. The result is typically a random collection of tchotchkes, knickknacks, and trinkets.

Maureen Smitt Grabowksi (Sundial) eschews such a haphazard approach. “I’ve never been much of a t-shirt person,” she laughed. Instead, Maureen has over the years assembled an impressive collection of nativity scenes purchased from local shops during her journeys around the world.

Today, she estimates she has more than 50 nativities, most of them serving as a special reminder of wonderful trips with her husband, children and grandchildren that she can enjoy each holiday season.

She gestured to a beautiful nativity carved of rich olive wood. “I fell in love

Israel

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L-R: Poland, Italy, Poland, Buenos Aires and Germany

with it during a trip to Israel in 1980, but gourd that caught her eye in Aruba, to it was a little out of my price range,” said a delightful folk art corn husk rendition Maureen. She reluctantly left the store, sourced during a trip to Kenya with her walking away empty handed, only to have granddaughter in 2019.

“I didn’t even notice when we the owner come running after her. walked through the store, but I She counts the set among the first heard Stephanie call out, “Did in her vast collection. you see that nativity, Nana?”

And while a few of her A devoted Rotarian, nativities are from the Maureen met husband United States – including Zbigniew Grabowski, a Polish nearly all the thirty-plus nuclear physicist and professor pieces of the popular at Purdue University, through Lenox China Jewels the organization. Several nativity collection pieces in her collection were – it’s some of the acquired during their trips to smaller nativiPoland and Eastern Europe. ties she treasures “Zbig knew John Paul before he most. The materiLisbon was the Pope,” she added, gesturing to als vary depending upon the regions, adding to a nativity from a church shop there.

Maureen has passed the wanderlust the rustic charm – from a small scene fashioned in a gene to her ten grandchildren, introduc-

Shell Point Life | November/December 2021

Barcelona

Guatemala

ing them to destinations of their choice around the world for a special trip together. They’ve traveled to where she grew up in Blackpool, in the historic county of Lancashire, England on the Irish Sea coast. They’ve also explored Alaska, the Canadian Rockies, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, Costa Rica and Africa. Her 16 great-grandchildren will no doubt be inspired by her travels too. She continues another longstanding Christmas-related tradition every year by gifting personalized ornaments to each family member.

Nowadays, as a solo traveler, Maureen prefers cruises as a way to see the world.

“It’s also a wonderful way to meet interesting people,” she said. After a year without travel, Maureen is eager to journey once again this season, with a few more trips planned – including an Amazon cruise that will take her to Manaus in South America. “I hope to see Devil’s Island, the site of the terrible jail that was the subject of the film Papillon.”

No doubt, a nativity or two will find its way into Maureen’s luggage, commemorating her voyage as they join the fantastic collection in her Shell Point home.

Tanzania

Kenya

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Out & About Hope for Haiti Shell Point’s Core Beliefs of Life, Love, Stewardship and Integrity were in full force with a donation of relief supplies for those affected by the recent earthquake in Haiti.

Joseph Julmeus, a 31-year Shell Point employee, initiated the team effort between Shell Point’s Human Resources and Purchasing departments to quickly identify and gather surplus supplies. Joseph transported four full pallets to Good Shepherd Haitian Baptist Church in Lehigh, which coordinated supply delivery to the hardest hit areas. The supplies – including wipes, hand sanitizer, alcohol pads, masks, gowns and gloves – will help many who were

Joseph Julmeus

among the more than 12,200 injured as a result of the 7.2 magnitude quake.

Purchasing Manager Dennis Robinson mobilized his staff members to assist. “It takes a team to do this,” said Dennis. “We are always here to help with our core values.”

Beyond disaster relief, Joseph coordinates support for Haiti throughout the year with clothing drives.

Cruising on the Suzy Q

“I’m thankful to Karen Anderson and all of Shell Point for supporting and responding quickly,” said Joseph. “They always help.” Along with the supplies, Shell Point sends our heartfelt prayers for the people of Haiti.

Purchasing team members JT Tyson, Mauricio Morrow, Dennis Robinson, Jim Quero and Chris Epps

Captain Russell Spence

Getting there is half the fun for Shell Point residents cruising on the Suzy Q! Featuring a fresh new look, the Suzy Q was Matlacha-bound with Captain Russ at the helm. "Since we get a lot of inquiries when we go out, adding a more prominent logo is a great way to increase our visibility," said Russ.

Residents were ready bright and early for the exciting expedition featuring unique shops and plenty of choices for a delicious lunch on the artsy fishing island.

“I love being on the water,” said Judy Charland (Sand Dollar). “It really takes all your worries away.”

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Writers Guild Meeting In September, nearly 50 members and prospective members of the Shell Point Writers Guild attended the group’s inaugural meeting in Connie Brown Hall. Featured speaker President Martin Schappell, who spoke about the ability of the arts to educate, motivate, encourage and entertain, noted “There is power in the written and spoken word.”

Tanya Hochschild, President of the Writers Guild and Chair of the Writers

Guild Board, explained the Guild’s mission of encouraging residents to produce original works in a variety of formats and offering a way for members to gather, learn about, create, present and critique written work.

The Guild collaborates with the Academy on educational classes and exhibits and present members’ work in the Tribby.

The Guild also fulfills the vision of the Arts as Healing Committee, co-chaired by Patricia Armstrong and David Lee, of bring-

ing the Tribby to all residents. During a recent Artful Afternoon the Writers Guild hosted a poetry reading for residents in assisted living. Don Adams, Steering Committee Chair; John Topliff, Educational Programs Chair, and Judy Horgen, Librarian complete the Writers Guild board.

There will be an Open Mic Poetry reading on Wednesday, November 3 at 4 p.m. in the Literary Lounge. Bring a poem of your own or a favorite to read!

Community Connections A group of Shell Point resident volunteers met one-on-one with more than 30 students from Florida Gulf Coast University’s Occupational Therapy Program to discuss active aging and practicing a healthy lifestyle. Residents enjoyed the opportunity to share their experience and knowledge, and students were able to practice the essential interviewing skills they’ll need as they progress in their career path. Shell Point Volunteer Coordinator Carol Sperlak facilitated the inter-generational community connection with Florida Gulf Coast University’s Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy Brigitte Belanger.

Carol Sperlak and Brigitte Belanger

On the left, Collette Krupp (Eagles Preserve), a retired occupational therapist who served on FGCU’s staff for more than 20 years, delighted in seeing some of her favorite students at Shell Point. Collette is joined by her former FGCU coworker, Brigitte Belanger, on the right.

The students present a succulent to Ray Galligan (Eagles Preserve)

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Ordination Celebration

Director of Employee Ministry Jim Clark Ordained by The Christian and Missionary Alliance B Y K A R E N A N D E R S O N , V I C E P R E S I D E N T, H U M A N R E S O U R C E S

Director of Employee Ministry Jim Clark serves as an essential bridge that connects our employees to Shell Point’s mission as a ministry of The Christian and Missionary Alliance and our core beliefs of life, love, stewardship and integrity. In the two years since he joined our Shell Point team, Jim has brought an upbeat attitude, positive energy, and spiritual guidance to staff meetings and prayer groups.

Along with members of The Village Church congregation, I was honored to attend Jim’s Ordination by the Christian and Missionary Alliance on Sunday, August 29.

Ordination is an opportunity for ministry candidates to be trained and equipped for the ministry they’re called to, and it’s also an opportunity for the church as a body to test and affirm that calling to ministry.

“When I accepted my position at Shell Point, it was with the understanding that I would be ordained and licensed by the C&MA,” said Jim. “Ordination allows for a closer alignment between Shell Point and the denomination.”

Jim explained the Ordination process required extensive reading, writing papers on different theological positions, and online and in-person training courses.

Guided by his mentor Don Pullen,

Praying over Stephanie and Jim are (L-R): Rev. Bob Formica (Cameo), Rev. Andy Hawkins, Rev. Tom Flanders, and Rev. Greg Sund.

"On behalf of all Shell Point employees, we are very proud of Jim's accomplishments within the denomination and congratulate him on this milestone,” said Shell Point President Martin Schappell.

Associate Pastor of The Village Church, Jim completed the rigorous preparation process that culminated with a lengthy oral examination in front of a licensing board.

“My ministry and calling is to the employees of Shell Point, and I want to be as equipped as I can be to not only know God’s Word, but to be filled with His Spirit as I do ministry around our campus,” said Jim. “It allows me to be better equipped for those conversations and to be able to share the hope of the Gospel.”

The inspirational service featured “Rise Up, O Men of God” and “Take My Life and Let It Be” – hymns that were personJim was joined by (L-R): his parents, John and Mary Clark; ally selected by Jim. daughter, Rebecca; wife, Stephanie; son, Matthew; and his aunt and uncle, Nancy and George Briechle (Rosemont).

During his sermon, 52

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Rev. Andy Hawkins, Senior Pastor of The Village Church, likened Jim to Nehemiah, who is seen as an illustration of a Godcentered man of compassion, prayer, vision, leadership, courage and integrity. “You are the man God has called for such a time as this,” said Rev. Hawkins.

When asked how his Ordination will help him serve Shell Point, Jim shared, “The biggest impact is the training and preparation to know God’s Word well, and to be equipped for ministry as best as I’m able. As situations arise with employees and their families, or here on our campus, I can be sharing the hope of the Gospel with as many people as possible.”

Jim has demonstrated a commitment to the Lord and to His Word through his character, lifestyle, and the values by which he lives, and his ordination fortifies his integral role at Shell Point as we work together to care for, serve and satisfy both our residents and our more than 1,100 employees.

A Season of Song

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

You will have songs as in the night when you keep the festival, And gladness of heart as when one marches to the sound of the flute, To go to the mountain of the LORD, to the Rock of Israel.

(Isaiah 30.29) Are you singing yet?

Operative word: “yet.” Because we’re fast approaching the season of song. We know it as the holiday season. Once Halloween is over (and I don’t know any Halloween carols), like lightning, the holiday season is upon us. November is Thanksgiving; December is Christmas. Let the singing begin!

We might not realize it, but even Thanksgiving has its characteristic songs, some secular, some sacred. And the range of styles is astonishing. From Nat King Cole’s “Autumn Leaves” and Ray Charles’ “Sweet Potato Pie,” to Bing Crosby’s “I’ve Got Plenty to Be Thankful For.” From Bette Midler’s “Wind Beneath My Wings” to Johnny Cash’s “Thanksgiving Prayer.”

Nothing much beats Vince Guaraldi’s trio playing their “Thanksgiving Theme” – one of the Peanuts holiday hits.

And in the church there are a few classic Thanksgiving hymns that mark America’s original holiday: “Come, Ye Thankful People Come,” “Now Thank We

All Our God,” and “We Gather Together.”

We plan to sing those for our Shell Point Community Thanksgiving Eve service on Wednesday, November 24 at 10 a.m.

But once Thanksgiving is over, Advent begins and the songs of Christmas explode, both outside and inside the church. There are memorable songs of Advent, the season of anticipation of Christ’s birth, like “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” and of course glorious carols of Christmas like “Joy to the World” and “Hark the Herald Angels Sing.”

There are four Sundays of Advent, and on each one we will be singing. Even more, we will be exploring the songs of the incarnation, songs of the coming of the Son of God in the flesh.

Luke, as it turns out, loved to sing.

That’s the only conclusion I can come to.

In the first two chapters of his gospel he records four songs, each sung by a different person overflowing with the truth of the coming of Messiah.

First, there is Mary’s song, the

Magnificat. “My soul magnifies the Lord...” she began. A glorious tribute to the babe in her womb.

Then there is Zacharias’ song, the Benedictus. Once his tongue was loosed upon the birth of John the Baptist he exclaimed “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel.” Benedictus means blessing, and Zacharias blesses God in song for blessing His people.

Then the angels get in the act, entertaining the shepherds: “Gloria in Excelsis Deo.” “Glory to God in the Highest.”

And finally, there is the aged Simeon’s song: “Nunc Dimittis,” which means “Now You are Dismissing.” He intones, “Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace.” He has seen the Christ child; all there is for him to do is sing and die.

In our four Sunday advent services we will explore each of these songs, enriching our worship, thrilling our hearts, filling us with the meaning of the incarnation of the Son of God. So get ready to sing – ‘tis the season!

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Introducing DR. TIM YODER

BY REV. AND REW HAWKIN S , P H . D. , S E N I OR PASTOR, T H E V I LLAG E CH URCH

The Village Church is delighted to nering with such New York based artists as an Alliance school, and he was the Minister introduce you to Dr. Tim Yoder, our Jerome Hines of the Metropolitan Opera of Worship and Fine Arts at the Fairhaven new Minister of Worship and Music. He and Stephen Clapp of the Juilliard School. Church of the C&MA in Dayton, Ohio for and his delightful wife Maryann come to us He has directed orchestras and choirs, large 14 years.

In addition to his studies in organ and small, and performed on the piano from the Lancaster, Pennsylvania area.

Dr. Yoder is extremely well qualified and organ with the Dayton (OH) Jazz performance at Nyack College, Tim has a master’s degree in conto assume the leadership of ducting from Wright State this important dimension University (Dayton, OH) of the Shell Point commuand a Doctor of Worship nity. A gifted pianist and Studies from the Robert organist, Tim is also an E. Webber Institute of accomplished vocalist, conWorship Studies. He has ductor and arranger. He has served as an adjunct faculty served such churches as the member at Nyack College, historic Calvary Baptist Lancaster Bible College, Church in New York City, and Pillar College, as well as and he was a professor of having studied additionally Church Music and Choral at the noted Westminster Studies at Indiana Wesleyan Choir College.

University. Most recently, Maryann, a native of he served as the Director of Brooklyn, NY, has been a Music and Worship Arts at wonderful partner in his the Westminster Presbyterian Welcome Maryann and Tim Yoder to The Village Church. Tim will be serving as the new Minister of Worship and Music ministry over the years, Church in Elgin, Illinois. and has often been a creTim will be no stranger to the Tribby Arts Center. His commitment Orchestra, the Miami Valley Symphony, ative energy in many of Tim’s musical productions. We trust that you will take to the arts has been central to his minis- and the Pontecorvo Ballet Studio.

Tim has significant roots in the every opportunity to welcome Tim and tries wherever he’s been. He developed the Celebration of the Arts at Calvary Baptist Christian & Missionary Alliance, the Maryann to our wonderful community, in New York City, celebrating the musical, denomination with which Shell Point and to enjoy his leadership of worship, theatrical, movement, and visual artistic is associated. He, along with his wife music and the arts at The Village Church gifts of his church community, and part- Maryann, are graduates of Nyack College, and in the Shell Point community.

Alpha 2022 Begins Tuesday, January 11 The Alpha course explores the answers to the big questions with which we all struggle.

Fast-moving video presentations provide a natural lead-in to the small-group conversations that focus on discovery rather than dogma. You will find that there are no dumb questions!

Whether you attend church or not, Alpha will provide refreshing insights and answers to Life’s Big Questions. Join us as we gather together for 10 evenings in January through March to share experiences and 54

opinions, to learn from each other, and to form new friendships.

Sessions take place in the Woodlands Grand Cypress Room, starting promptly at 4:30 p.m. and ending at 6:45 p.m. Each session begins with a complimentary dinner catered by the Palm Grill, followed by a video and small group discussion.

Alpha is sponsored by The Village Church and the Academy of Lifelong Learning. The course, which is underwritten by The Village Church, is free to participants.

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Are “Life’s Big Questions” on your mind? You are not alone!

Register by January 6 either online at www.villagechurchshellpoint.org/ alpha or by calling the church office at (239) 454-2147. Space is limited.

Joy

THE

World TO

PRESENTED BY WOMEN’S CONNECTIONS

Community Thanksgiving Eve Service Wednesday, November 24 10 a.m. The Village Church Featuring music and an encouraging message from Pastor Andy, this hour-long Thanksgiving celebration will include Shell Point residents and staff members sharing their special “thanks.”

Laughter is medicine to our soul, and medical science has proven that laughter is healing. Christian Humorist, Cherie Nettles, will present “Laughing All The Way.” Wednesday, December 8 The Village Church 9:30 a.m. – Refreshments 10 to 11:15 a.m. – Program Sign up November 14 and 21 or at the church office.

Celebrating the Christmas Season at The Village Church

The Village Church Christmas Concert

Christmas Caroling in the Assisted Living Facilities

Christmas Hymn Sing

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service

Sunday, December 5 · 6 p.m.

Sunday, December 12 · 6 p.m.

Sunday, December 19 · 3 p.m.

Friday, December 24 · 6 p.m.

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Natu re’s Noteb ook

The Gift

BY STEVE MORTON, DIRECTOR O F L A N D S C A P E O P E R AT I O N S

My mother returned from Christmas shopping without any presents, and we were somewhat, selfishly disappointed. My father would have liked something to eat, while I was dreaming of wrapped packages that would be hidden away until Christmas. But instead, she thrust her arms toward me and said, “Take this to the kitchen.” Rather dimly, I asked, “What is it?” She replied, “It’s a Christmas Cactus.”

As I grasped the plant, I observed it consisted of a multitude of stems emanating from a central point. The stems cascaded over the lip of the pot pendulously. They had flattened, fleshy segments about an inch long and cinched at the ends like links of sausage. Each stem had a tubular fuchsia flower. My mother engaged her remarkable power of clairvoyance and explained, “It’s called a Christmas Cactus because it blooms at Christmas time.”

The Christmas Cactus earned a place in our kitchen by virtue of its beauty.

My father crafted a plant stand to place it in the sunny, southern window. After Christmas, the flowers shriveled and dropped, yet the plant did not die. By next fall, we were excited that the larger, fuller cactus would soon bloom again.

However, by December we were desperately seeking any sign of a flower bud. As we boxed up the last glass ornament from the tree, I told my mother, “Looks like we got a dud. The mighty Christmas Cactus struck out.”

In January, during dinner of kielbasa and mashed potatoes, we discussed the fate of the plant. Each of us had opinions,

but considering the vivacious amount of growth, none of us were Grinch enough to just dispose of it. Finally, my mother looked at me with that look that indicated Pay Attention, and said, “I want you to go to the library and learn everything you can about the Christmas Cactus. Find out why it didn’t bloom.”

The reference librarian saw me coming from across the room. The determined look in my eyes signaled “Book Report,” and she cringed at the thought of another search for Lincoln biographies. I soon learned how to navigate the card catalog and then mastered the intricacies of the Dewey Decimal System. As a library denizen, I prowled among the mystical book stacks like slot canyons in a Carlos Castaneda novel.

Dozens of books were strewn about the library table, all open to the pertinent cac-

tus paragraph. They appeared as a flock of white birds, finally free to fly.

Liberated from their golden cage, they shared secret knowledge with me. Each paragraph taught me more about the Christmas Cactus until finally, I had my “Aha Moment.”

It was the longest word I had learned in my short life. Well, except for supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. I sounded out each syllable slowly. Pho…to…pe…ri… od…ism. Photoperiodism is the developmental responses of plants to the relative lengths of light and dark periods. The Christmas Cactus needed long periods of darkness to initiate the blooms.

The sunny southern window and bright lights in the kitchen provided too much light!

I waited until just the right moment during dinner to share my revelation. After receiving the praise of a conquering hero, we discussed the simple plan. The week before Halloween, the cactus would be banished to our cool, dark basement for 15 hours a day. The following Christmas, our cactus bloomed again just as predicted by the sacred texts in the secret books.

Now, whenever I see a perky little Christmas Cactus in a department store, I reflect back upon that year when my mother brought home no presents, but gave me a most precious gift. I often wonder if she was fully aware of the path in life she aimed me toward. It is too late to ask her now. She gave me the gift of curiosity, the gift of tenacity, and above all, the love of the natural world in all its complexity. Thank you, Mom.