15 minute read
Out and About
Out & About
Ready to Rally
Even a hurricane can’t stop Shell Point’s pickleballers from serving up a good time! Just two weeks after Ian, players got back to playing their favorite game. The group’s skill set ranges from beginner to advanced—but regardless of experience, all players are happy to greet a newcomer and encourage them to join in the fun as they rally on the courts every day of the week.
Harry and Margaret Nesteruk (Estuary)
Adventure to Cabbage Key
A group of 20 residents embarked on a trip to Cabbage Key, famously known as the inspiration for Jimmy Buffet’s hit song Cheeseburger in Paradise. The journey began bright and early from McCarthy’s Marina aboard the 45-foot Santiva, where residents enjoyed a relaxing and informative boat ride as they made their way through Pine Island Sound. Friendly gopher tortoises welcomed residents to the island as they made their way up to the restaurant to share a lunch of burgers, seafood, and slices of key lime pie. Afterwards, some residents relaxed and soaked in the tropical scenery, while others climbed an overlook tower for an amazing view of surrounding islands or walked along nature trails leading to overlooks of different waterways.
Bob and Jan Barger (Junonia), Jay Wright (Estuary), Paul Friedler (Junonia), Bibi Stein (Junonia)
Patricia Mowbray (Royal Bonnet) and Maddy Hanlon (Harbor Court)
You Scream, I Scream
Everyone loves a good scoop of ice cream, especially when it is served up compliments of The Legacy Foundation! Residents socialized while enjoying each other’s company and an assortment of delicious flavors from Black Pearl Homemade Ice Cream from North Port. Favorite flavors included the deliciously smooth “Best Vanilla Bean You’ve Ever Had” and the decadent “Cookie Monster.”
Perhaps one of the most popular card games enjoyed by Shell Point residents is Samba, a strategic game formerly known as Canasta from the Rummy family. Shell Point’s Samba Games were originally started in 2012 by Barbara Milligan (Larsen Health Center) and Dorothy Zablotsky (Oakmont), and ten years later, the club has more players than ever with roughly 150 members.
Serving as the director of Samba Games since its inception, Dorothy decided it is time to pass on the torch to Mary Mazur (Junonia), who will take on the responsibility of the club as it continues to grow. Before stepping down, Dorothy emphasized the desire for more residents to join in on the fun. “We are looking for new players and will be glad to teach the game to all those who are interested,” she said. “You won’t be sorry you’ve learned this wonderful game.” The group meets several times throughout the week, and with the new addition of a detailed Samba rule book authored by resident Leland Mills (The Arbor), it is easy for anybody to get involved and participate in the exciting game.
Although members of Samba Games clearly appreciate the game in itself, the club provides an opportunity for something much more valuable. Players use the time to socialize and catch up with friends within the community, as well as meet new ones through events like “Samba Sweet Night,” when nearly 50 members and non-members came together to have some tasty desserts and play a game they enjoy. The club certainly fosters a social environment, and as a result, it is not uncommon for players to lose track of their games as they get carried away in conversation. For anybody looking to make new friends and try something new, Samba Games just might be worth a try.
Barney and Karen Pultz (Sundial)
Karen Chamberlin and Lillie (Junonia)
Give Samba a Try
Eunice Murray (Oakmont), Mary Waters (Oakmont), Deborah Hiser (Eagles Preserve) Nancy Ferguson (Rosemont), Susie Means (Oakmont), Morton Zablotsky (Oakmont), Nancy Kofira (Oakmont)
Ilse Franklin (Palm Acres), Stephanie Johnson (Enclave), Mary Coddens (Oakmont), Dorothy Zablotsky (Oakmont)
Shell Point Fire Safety Officer Patrick Blanchard and Iona Fire Department Division Chief John Wisdom
In late summer, Shell Point Retirement Community hosted the Iona McGregor Fire District as they led a multi-week training program for Lee County firefighters in an ideal acquired structure: the empty Larsen Pavilion on The Island.
Together, crews from Fort Myers, Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel, Cape Coral, Lehigh, Estero and Bonita Springs focused on different aspects of firefighting operations and trained on skills such as search operations, rope operations, communication and Rapid Intervention Teams. Firefighters on different shifts from multiple agencies were eager to practice their skills and train in an unfamiliar highrise setting.
“This training is a unique opportunity to deploy our hose lines and make our fire attack simulations in a building we actually used to respond to in our district,” said Iona Fire Department Division Chief John Wisdom. “We don’t get the opportunity very often to get inside these buildings when it is not an emergency, so being able to get together and practice our skills— especially with our neighbors from six different agencies—is an amazing experience and an amazing opportunity. Thank you, Shell Point, for welcoming us so we can have fun, train, and be better prepared to serve you.”
As a retired fireman, Shell Point’s Fire Safety Officer Patrick Blanchard recognized the benefits of offering the Pavilion for training purposes.
The crews used rope systems to practice highrise rescues as they rappelled down the Larsen Pavilion.
“We appreciate everything the Iona McGregor crew does for us,” said Patrick. “Shell Point is happy to help support them with this space and opportunity.”
According to Megan Contreras, Iona McGregor Fire District’s Community Relations and Education Coordinator, training at Shell Point gives firefighters an opportunity to build relationships with staff and residents too. “We hope those who saw the training have confidence and trust in their local first responders and recognize the hard work they put in daily to keep us all and themselves safe.”
To simulate a fire response, engines pumped high-pressure water lines into the building and crews worked through dark hallways filled with theatrical smoke (similar to what is used at a concert).
The Firefighter Experience
Brian Hinds, Chief Information Officer; Kevin May, Director of Facility Operations; Justin Schiff, Director of Project Development; and Paul Tison, Director of Dining
Carol Sperlak, Resident Engagement Manger and Shirl Stringer, Island Concierge
Kevin May, Director of Facility Operations
The Iona Fire Department graciously offered to let interested Shell Point employees experience what it is like to be a firefighter—and several accepted the challenge! The exercise included donning nearly 60 pounds of gear, taking a hose load up four flights of stairs to the fire area, crawling low in a smoked environment, and searching for a victim in the smoke. After the experience,
Kevin May, Director of Facility Operations, shared his thoughts:
“Suiting up in full firefighting gear and participating in a full training exercise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience most people never have an opportunity to do. While putting on the equipment, my first thought was “This is heavy!” It was also inspirational, and it felt like armor to give you courage.
I was blessed enough to borrow Patrick
Blanchard’s old firefighting gear, and I wanted to honor his name that was on his helmet
I was wearing. The sense of anticipation as I climbed the stairs was a huge adrenaline rush. I was trying to listen to the instructor while thinking about what we would see—or not see—when inside the smoke-filled hallway. This opportunity demonstrated the physical aspect of firefighting, which was very apparent with all the gear on—but that is secondary. My adrenaline was going through my veins even though I knew I was in a safe environment and not in mortal danger. The “ emotional and mental aspects of firefighting are second to none. After the exercise, Patrick asked me how I felt, and then he told me that it’s exactly that feeling that gets inside of you and makes you want to keep doing it and putting yourself in harm’s way. It is amazing to me to think how firefighters willingly put their lives on the line to help save other people.
Shell Point Veterans
Never Stop Serving
The Shell Point Veterans Group, which honors the ideals of all veterans at Shell Point and promotes programs in support of veterans, their families, and surviving spouses, has been an important resource for the past 13 years. After its founding in 2009 by Jack Hubbard, a retired United States Air Force Major and a former Royal Air Force B-17 Bomber, the group has been sustained over the years by dedicated residents including Karen Hubbard (Turban), Helen McDonald (Oakmont), and Paul and Jane Hoden (Oakmont).
Jim Stapleton (Harbor Court), a retired Army veteran who has coordinated the group since 2018, has focused on organizing meetings with informative and interesting speakers, planning annual activities, and communicating with the community’s veterans.
“I’ve also been working on improving engagement, especially for our veterans in Assisted Living,” said Jim.
Jim has been joined by a pair of Harbor Court residents to help lead the group into 2023: Teri Romano, a retired defense intelligence inspector and her husband Bob Cardin, retired Army Lieutenant Colonel and Vietnam War pilot.
Plans for the new year include recruiting new volunteers to help in a variety of areas, including identifying speakers; serving as court coordinators; increasing coordination of VA benefits for members and surviving spouses; and acting as a liaison both for veterans in Assisted Living and surviving spouses. There is also a need for volunteers to visit sick veterans and participate in Hope Healthcare’s VALOR program Honor Guards. “Our plans provide more veterans with leadership opportunities to become more involved and will allow us to continue to serve our Shell Point veterans and their spouses,” said Bob. All Shell Point veterans, family and friends are welcome to join the group and attend events—there is no official “membership” involved. “One thing that will stay the same in 2023 is the group’s mantra,” said Jim. “Never Stop Serving.”
Jim Stapleton, Teri Romano and Bob Cardin (Harbor Court) will lead Shell Point’s Veterans Group into 2023. The group commemorates Veterans Day, Memorial Day, and National Vietnam War Veterans Day each year.
Shell Point’s WWII Veterans were honored with special Dream Flights in 2021. Another event to honor our Veterans is planned for 2023.
SHELL POINT VETERANS BY THE NUMBERS
MORE THAN 300
VETERANS, SPOUSES AND SUPPORTERS
BRANCH OF SERVICE
U.S. Army.........................................88 U.S. Navy..........................................39 U.S. Air Force.............................34 U.S. Marines..................................14 U.S. Coast Guard..................1 Royal Air Force.......................2 Royal Canadian
Air Force...........................................2 WAR TIME ERA: WW II 39 KOREA 36 VIETNAM 117 IRAQ 1
The Chapel in the Larsen Health Center
A Haven of Peace During Challenging Times
BY LYNN SCHNEIDER AND JOSEPH PINK
The recent events brought about by Hurricane Ian created a number of significant challenges for the residents and staff here at Shell Point. During this trying time, it became more important than ever to have safe spaces where individuals could find peace in the midst of chaos.
One such space has been the beautiful chapel in the Larsen Health Center. This chapel, which was generously provided by Dee (Horne) Nesselroade in memory and honor of her late husband Jerry Horne, provides a quiet place where residents, family members, and staff can find peace and comfort in their relationship with the Lord.
Residents come to the chapel to talk with God, pray for friends and family, and ultimately be reminded that no earthly possession is greater than receiving His love. The atmosphere of the chapel provides an opportunity for occupants to feel His presence and be grateful for His many blessings even in a time of much uncertainty, making it an invaluable resource to Shell Point and all who reside here.
The chapel was initially constructed in the Larsen Health Center to provide a place for all residents and staff to separate themselves from the troubles of the outside world. It is not uncommon to find a small room in hospitals and different healthcare facilities designated as a place of worship, however, they are often no bigger than a
closet and have little consideration put into them. “Every aspect of this chapel was designed with the needs of our residents in mind,” said Martin Schappell, President of Shell Point.
The chapel is located on the ground floor of the Larsen Health Center. To the right of the lobby, there is a hallway that leads past Lindy’s Café, two educational rooms, and the Pavilion Auxiliary workroom. At the end of the hallway, on the left, is the chapel. “The chapel’s location in the Larsen is somewhat secluded, but the hope was that it would provide a place of quiet solitude away from the hustle and bustle of the main lobby while still being easily accessible to everyone who lives in, visits, or works within the building,” he said.
“Time slows down in the chapel,” said Dee. “As you sit in the quietness of this restful chamber, you relinquish the tyranny of the urgent desire to ‘do’ and accept the reality to simply ‘be.’ It is at that moment that we can hope to hear the still, quiet voice of the Holy Spirit.”
As individuals visit the chapel, they are greeted by calligraphy artwork at each side of the entrance that prepares hearts for introspection. The first is the beautifully illustrated Lord’s Prayer taken from Matthew 6: 9-13, and the second is Psalm 23: The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; he leadeth me beside still waters. He restoreth my soul; he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies; thou annointest my head with oil, my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
Once inside, the chapel is an intimate space, while providing seating for 16 people. The focal point is a beautiful altar table crafted from wood with a top that appears to float above a delicate stainedglass structure created by Shell Point’s own resident artists. On the altar is a gleaming brass cross, a large Bible, and two brass candlesticks.
Behind the altar, a large glass window looks out onto a large white cross anchoring a small seating area overlooking the nature preserve. A white pergola provides shade to the outdoor seating area. The ceil-
ing treatment inside the chapel mirrors the outdoor pergola effect. The chapel’s interior walls are engraved with a delicate vine motif that reminds us of Micah 4:4, which states: “But they shall all sit under their own vines and their own fig trees, and no one shall make them afraid.” The chapel is open at all times for both residents and staff. “People find peace in this little refuge,” said Sunny Torres, Director of Spiritual Services. “In a community dedicated to the service of God and the care of his people, spiritual peace is often the rock underneath our feet. This chapel is just one of many ways Shell Point emphasizes spiritual wellness and care for its residents.” Sunny added that “residents of the Larsen can be going through one of the most challenging times of their lives, and these times require spiritual strength. More often than not, faith is the thing that keeps residents standing up and spiritual care can be just as important as medical. The chapel can be used by residents and families for their everyday relationship with God, for times of loss and closure, or Dee (Horne) Nesselroade any other crucial moment in life that might require a calm and peaceful ‘‘Time slows down in the chapel. As you sit in the quietness of this restful chamber, you relinquish the environment, and it is important that this resource is available.” “The chapel is a sacred space,” said Dee. “Just as Jesus went into the garden alone to pray, we often come to the chapel alone. But we are not alone. It is here that the Holy Spirit is waiting for us when we need his love tyranny of the urgent desire the most.” Following recent events like to ‘do’ and accept the real- the Covid pandemic and weather catastrophes, the new chapel fills a ity to simply ‘be.’ It is at that need in the community that is more important than ever. It is no secret moment that we can hope that the pandemic and Hurricane Ian to hear the still, quiet voice made a large impact on the lives and mental health of all those residing in of the Holy Spirit.” the community, and the chapel has the potential to provide spiritual relief from physical and personal loss for all those affected. It is times like these where Shell Point’s dedication to God’s people and their spiritual care is most important, and the Larsen Health Center chapel will always be a place for just that.
