Shell Point Life June 2020

ALSO INSIDE: Summer Gardening • Staff Spirit Week • Innovative LifeQuest June 2020 Vol. 15 Issue 6

IDEAS ON THE

RUN Professional Problem Solver Covers alot of Ground

WALK WITH ME BRINGING JOY THROUGH FACEBOOK

But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles.

A Sunshine State of Mind

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Every season is special at Shell Point, but there is something special about summertime.

So far, residents have been spotted admiring early morning sunrises, strolling and kayaking along the Caloosahatchee, reading on the lanai during gentle afternoon showers and bicycling throughout the community’s many neighborhoods.

Residents and staff have found many creative ways to encourage each other. For example, Cellana resident Dotty Morrison tried on her photojournalist hat by using her camera to capture beautiful nature and

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friendly faces from her daily outdoor walks. Turn to page 20 to “walk” with Dotty and enjoy a curated collection of her photos.

There are also plenty of opportunities to engage in the world from the comfort and safety of home. Beginning on page 9, you’ll find an article covering how the innovative Resident Programming team has adapted to changing circumstances while continuing to provide uplifting LifeQuest activities.

Another great example is found in Connected Living at The Springs.

The activities team at the memory care center has noted tremendous

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results following the purchase and use of a new flight simulator, detailed

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

Director of Marketing & Communications Lynn Schneider Editor Sarah Nadal Creative Director Rich Cerrina Senior Designer Wendy Iverson Graphic Designer Brianna Dorsey Contributors Dawn Boren, Pat Bubb, Robyn Church, Claude Emler, Michelle Emmett, Barbara Hill Freeman, Janine Hammond, Jonathan High, Gabriella Kelly, Ginny Miller-Plaza, Dotty Morrison, Steve Morton, Dave Nixon, Don Pullen, Ashley Robbin, Emily Rose, Laura Slack, Jami Smith, Carol Sperlak, Lilli Spolar, John Thorp, Michelle Tompkins, Susan Uhleman, Michael Weiss, Peggy Zimmerman Do you have story ideas or photos to share?

Contact Editor Sarah Nadal by emailing sarahnadal@shellpoint.org Shell Point Life Available Online You can find the current issue as well as back issues of Shell Point Life magazine at www.shellpoint.org/shellpointlife.

on page 17, as well as the donation of a new piano, seen on page 32.

On The Cover Junonia resident Wendell Leimbach tries to make the world a better place each day, a fact to which his 13 patents (and two pending!) can attest. Get acquainted with Wendell in the cover story that begins on page 28 2

-Isaiah 40:31a

Shell Point Life | June 2020

RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

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

Shell Point Achieves Prestigious Recognition

Retirement Resort Lifestyles and the Assurance of Lifecare

Waterfront Resort Offers Healthy Lifestyle for Seniors On June 1, Shell Point was officially recognized for its ability to provide Retirement Living at its Healthiest® and certified as a Retirement Resort by Senior Hospitality International (SHI). Shell Point earned this recognition for the healthy lifestyle residents enjoy at the more than 700-acre community.

According to SHI, the top priority of the new generations of seniors is staying healthy. As they look for communities with healthy lifestyle options for the body, mind, soul and spirit, the Retirement Resort awards are intended to identify a select group of communities for their demonstrated commitment to providing comprehensively healthy environments.

Communities who receive the award have invested in healthy campus amenities with an attention to facilities, staff-

ing and programming; resident activities designed to fulfill the body, mind, soul and spirit; and active community engagement through resident clubs and groups.

Shell Point’s positive programming philosophy of LifeQuest emphasizes wellness and active aging throughout all levels of care. “Shell Point offers an impressive array of healthy lifestyle options for residents to enjoy,” said J. Keesey Hayward of Senior Hospitality International. “Management and staff are relentlessly focused on helping their residents enjoy the many dimensions of healthy living.”

Shell Point remains committed to integrated LifeQuest programs and resources that promote a culture of wellness, enhance residents’ daily lifestyle and offer support for personal growth, healthy living and a positive life experience.

Shell Point Life | June 2020

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A Lighthouse in the Family

BY BARBARA HILL FREEMAN

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Shell Point Life | June 2020

T

om Gillis of Cameo has a small waterfront garden plot on The Island at Shell Point. Every morning and every afternoon, he shares his garden with Beth, his wife of 61 years. She’s a resident of Connected Living at the Larsen Pavilion. Visits to the garden are good for both of them, reminiscent of sun-soaked summer days spent at Wings Neck Lighthouse, a home that has been in the family for generations.

At the end of a long peninsula – a “neck” that separates Buzzards Bay from Cape Cod Canal in Massachusetts, shaped roughly like a wing – sits the aptly named Wings Neck Lighthouse. It was built in

1859 as a beacon to ships using the Cape Cod Canal that shortened the distance between New York and Boston.

For 80 years, or half of the lighthouse’s existence, its story has been inextricably intertwined with the story of Tom and Beth, as well as their family’s past and present. To Tom and the children he raised there with Beth, and the grandchildren who’ve known it since birth, the lighthouse is more a repository of treasured family traditions and stories than it is a local landmark.

“The whole thing started back in the ’30s,” said Tom. “My wife, Beth, was eight years old. Every fall before school started, she’d go off with her father, Frank, to have

lunch together out on this point of land called Wings Neck Point, and they would talk about the upcoming year.”

It was in 1938 that they arrived and noticed a new sign saying the lighthouse was going to be sold as part of the federal government’s effort to replace manned lighthouses with automatic lights. Young Beth said it would be sad that they couldn’t go out there anymore, and her father made up his mind then and there that he’d try to buy the lighthouse.

He wrote and requested information about the auction of the ten-acre property.

Continued on next page Shell Point Life | June 2020

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A Lighthouse in the Family

Wings Neck Lighthouse 1939

Continued from page 5

When Frank received the auction papers, they included a notice saying there was not fresh water on the point. Water had to be trucked in.

Soon afterwards, Frank went down to the little town of Pocasset, about five miles away. “He came across an old gentleman who said, ‘As a boy, I used to work there, and my job was to pump water for the horses. There’s plenty of water out there. I’ll show you where the pump was.’ He took my father-in-law to the exact spot and said, ‘You dig down here and you’ll have all the water you want,’” explained Tom. Reassured by what the man said, Frank submitted the paperwork to see if he could purchase the lighthouse. His was the high-

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Shell Point Life | June 2020

est bid, so he and his wife, Irene, found themselves the owners of Wings Neck Point. In addition to the lighthouse, the property came with a house for the keeper and an enclosed breezeway connecting the two buildings. The purchase also included a barn that had been home to the lightkeeper’s horses, and a separate home for the assistant lighthouse keeper.

Frank and Irene Flanagan made some changes to the main house, replacing some of the old windows with picture windows to take advantage of the spectacular views.

They didn’t stop with the lightkeeper’s house; they turned the barn and other buildings on the property into comfortable cottages. It was a passion project for them.

Even though the traditional lighthouse was no longer in service, there was still a need for a beacon to help control boat traffic. “The government took the light out, but they left the glass in,” said Tom. “That was a big issue; with other lighthouses, they took the whole top off.”

The government erected a steel tower with a light on top, which replaced the decommissioned lighthouse and continues to occupy part of the property. At first, the tower was manned 24 hours a day, and the men who worked there became good friends with the Flanagans. Technology evolved over the years, and now the beacon is connected to a building further up the canal, which directs boat traffic on both ends of the narrow waterway.

Family Time Because Beth showed an early aptitude for music and the piano, her parents purchased a piano and located it in the base of the lighthouse tower so Beth could continue practicing during the summer months. She excelled at piano and went on to study music at Manhattanville College. She played so well that, after graduation, she went on tour and played in many concert halls. She also regularly perThe winding staircase of the lighthouse must have been an interesting challenge for Tom and his bride Beth on their wedding day. The couple dressed in their formal best and said their “I do’s” to passing ships and a beautiful view of the Cape Cod Canal.

always pretty special,” said formed with the Boston Pops Christina, Tom and Beth’s under the direction of the legdaughter. endary maestro Arthur Fiedler.

One of the family’s summer It was at one of these pastimes was swimming. It had Boston concerts that she and its challenges, though. The old Tom made a connection. Their lighthouse sits very close to the mothers were acquainted, and water, almost too close, so the Irene mentioned that Beth government responded to rising might like to meet him. “I went water levels by shoring up the backstage after a concert and rocks that rim the entire point, talked to Beth. I thought she with more rocks. In addition, was pretty nice, and she thought Frank installed a stone jetty.

I was OK,” he said. “I asked her All those uneven stones out then and there. Fifteen didn’t make it easy to get into months later, we were married.” the water; still, they managed.

After a wedding cere“The water was too rough to mony at a church in Pocasset, have a dock, but we would go Massachusetts, the guests made swimming,” said Tom. “If the their way to Wings Neck Point tide was right, we could swim all and the lighthouse for the the way around the point and reception. The date was August come out on the other side.”

1, 1959. “It was a perfectly beautiful day for an outside event,” A Family Compound said Tom. They feasted and danced, After Tom and Beth were and when it was time to toss the married and living in Dover, If you look closely, you’ll spot Tom in one of the bride’s bouquet, Tom and Beth they and their children (and places he loves best at Shell Point: his personal garden, which is located on The Island, not far from climbed the many steps to the later their grandchildren – 13 the Butterfly Habitat and Orchid House. top of the 40-foot-high lightin all!) spent as much time as house tower. She leaned over possible at Wings Neck. When the railing and threw her flowers Beth’s father passed away, pieces As on any perfect August day, there of the land went to various family members. to the young women gathered below. That group was soon replaced by all the single were many boaters on the waters around As a result, the area has become something men in the party, who were eager to catch Wings Neck Point; but that day there of a family compound. were even more sailors than usual. “About the garter a few moments later.

Irene passed away five years later. She a dozen boats from the New York Yacht deeded the lighthouse to Beth, who in turn Club were sailing by on their way up to deeded it over to her daughter Christina Marblehead for race week, and they all when the time was right. “It was hard to tooted their horns and waved when they maintain the lighthouse, but we wanted to saw us out atop the lighthouse,” said Tom. keep it in the family,” said Christina. “After my grandmother Irene died, my parents wondered what to do with a 200-year-old Summers at property on the Cape, and the lighthouse Wings Neck Point When Beth was a girl, the Flanagans property fell to me.”

Christina renovated the interior and would transplant the family from the Boston suburb of West Roxbury to Wings restored the exterior. She replaced the Neck each summer. They’d enjoy the cool- picture windows with more authentic, sixing breezes, beautiful surroundings and over-six paned windows. She added a lot charm of the location. They became part of of insulation, since the lighthouse sits on the community, and when the time came, an old stone foundation and has to endure winds from all directions, and she put back Frank and Irene retired there.

The Gillises carried on this family the old iron baseboard radiators. The town tradition. Each summer, they’d pack up of Bourne, Massachusetts, has now deemed the children and head from their primary the building an historic site.

As often they can, Christina and home in Dover, Massachusetts, to Wings Neck. The renovated barn became their seasonal home. “When we visited, it was Continued on next page Shell Point Life | June 2020

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A Lighthouse in the Family Continued from page 7

her family visit from their home in Southborough, Massachusetts. They enjoy the views from all sides, the multitude of stars in the night sky, and the peace and quiet of the point. Because the lighthouse also serves as a rental property, it has the requisite Wi-Fi, laundry and other amenities.

Christina has four children, who also love the lighthouse. “We hope to keep it in the family for a long, long time,” said Tom. Christina agrees.

From Wings Neck Point to Shell Point As the seasons change and the cold sets in, New Englanders tell each other to “winter well.” The Gillises did just that by

avoiding the Massachusetts winters altogether and vacationing in Venice, Florida.

Beth visited often while Tom was still working up north; and as he neared retirement, she spent some of her time scoping out places to live once they were free to move to Florida. At one point, a friend gave her the use of a condominium on Sanibel for a week. “After just a couple

of days, she called me and said, ‘You know that plan you had to find a place to retire?

Tear it up. I found it; we’re going to retire on Sanibel,’” laughed Tom.

“We bought a building lot in the early 1980s, and Beth found a builder and organized the whole thing,” said Tom. They traveled back and forth between Sanibel and Dover for about five years. When Tom retired, they moved to Sanibel full time.

The couple had a boat at their dock on a canal, and could walk two minutes to the beach. “While I cooked dinner, Beth would sit at her Steinway grand piano and play.

We’d keep the large sliding doors open so the neighbors could hear. It worked out great,” recalled Tom. Eventually, Tom and Beth decided a continuing care retirement community was the best next choice for them.

“We used to come over to Shell Point on weekends as a kind of vacation, and in 2016, we decided to move in.”

Now they enjoy their daily routine.

It includes walks around The Island, and visits to tend Tom’s garden near the Orchid House. Who knows what opportunities will bloom next for this close-knit family? n

Fourth of July Parade and Holiday Lunch Special 10 a.m. • Saturday, July 4

N Enter Your Golf Cart N Enter Your Bicycle N Parade Route Seating N The Naples Brace Band N Flags For Waving N All American Lunch

You are invited to join your friends from the Resident Programming team for a morning of holiday fellowship and fun! Plan to celebrate the country’s independence with a Shell Point community-wide parade held on Saturday, July 4 at 10 a.m.

The Resident Programming Team will accept 30 golf cart and 10 bike entries, starting on June 10. At that time, a set of guidelines will be given to each participant.

Several areas along the parade route will have chairs placed for audience seating, and flags will be delivered to each internal mailbox for your participation. The Naples Brace Band will be part of the parade, playing patriotic favorites.

Following the fun parade, the dining venues at Shell Point will feature an all-American fare of ribs, hot dogs and hamburgers, with all the fixings.

Please be sure to practice social distancing as you Let Freedom Ring!

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Staying Positive with LifeQuest B Y L I L L I - A N N E S P O L A R , M A R K E T I N G E V E N T S C O O R D I N AT O R

LifeQuest is Shell Point’s positive programming philosophy that emphasizes wellness and active aging throughout all levels of care. During this challenging time, as residents have adjusted to temporary self-isolation and social distancing, Shell Point is more committed than ever to providing residents with some normalcy through integrated programs and resources that continue to promote a culture of wellness, enhance residents’ daily lifestyle and offer support for personal growth, healthy living and a positive life experience.

Due to the cancellation of group gatherings and activities, the Resident Life team is getting even more creative with specialized programming. Their team is committed to meetActivities Coordinator (and former zoologist) Ashley Robbin hosts Ashley’s Animals on SPTV. In this episode, which was filmed at The Shell Factory and Nature Park, she fed a porcupine while discussing their Florida habitat.

ing every resident’s wellness needs from the comfort and safety of their homes.

Innovative programming has been implemented to keep residents active during this time by broadcasting Academy of Lifelong Learning and fitness classes on Shell Point Television (SPTV). By using this in-house resource, residents can stay engaged intellectually and physically at their leisure.

Some other special programming, created to connect residents to the world of arts and nature, are new segments on SPTV such as Michael Weiss’ Exploring the Arts, Jami’s Pinterest Pinch and Ashley’s Animals.

Each segment embodies one of the six

dimensions of wellness: social, educational, spiritual, physical, natural environment and emotional. In addition to weekly programming, the Resident Life team will continue to provide activities around campus that adhere to the new guidelines of social distancing, while keeping residents active and engaged.

Residents are also taking it upon themselves to stay busy and have a purpose-filled life. Residents are choosing to not only exist, but to flourish; many have found new purpose as they have embraced their changing lifestyle. They are staying actively engaged with their neighbors, families and community, while not letting social distancing be a limiting factor.

Anne Woodruff of Junonia recently shared how she is spending her time amid the coronavirus pandemic. Anne has spent her days walking the trails of The Island, The Woodlands, and Eagles Preserve, enjoying the landscape and beauty of her new home, Shell Point. Anne Continued on next page

Fine & Performing Arts Manager Michael Weiss has offered artful insight and historical education in his SPTV segment Exploring the Arts, in which he shows residents how to navigate YouTube to learn more about arts topics. Activities Coordinators Jami Smith and Michelle Emmett host an SPTV segment called Pinterest in a Pinch with a focus on at-home craft projects – like this demonstration of how to make an indulgent sugar body scrub.

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OSPREY WATCH

STAYING POSITIVE WITH LIFEQUEST

Estuary residents Pat and Stokes Fishburne take their daily walks around The Island and enjoyed watching the progress of the osprey nest at the Shell Point Marina. Three chicks were born in late February. Photos by Pat Fishburne.

Continued from page 9

has spent time de-cluttering her home by cleaning out her storage and identifying what to donate to the Thrift Store, all while enjoying some entertainment. With technology at its peak, Anne has taken advantage of subscriptions for Netflix and Hulu, to keep her Anne entertained when she does spend time in her Woodruff apartment. She has also adapted her ways of attending her weekly church service by watching online, and has utilized Skype and Zoom to stay connected to friends and family.

Tapping Into the Creative

IT’S ALL IN THE EYES Osprey females feed the chicks. Because the chicks grow so fast it’s hard to tell which is the chick and which is the adult.

Note the difference in eye color; the adult’s eye is yellow, while the chick’s eye is orange.

WE HAVE LIFT OFF This chick finally got the courage to fly out of the nest for the first time and, after soaring for a minute, it landed on the nearby dock post.

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Shell Point Life | June 2020

Another way many residents are flourishing in this time of uncertainty is by tapping into their creative side. Art and music have always been methods of creative freedom, and can be therapeutic and adventurous. Dusting off your sketchbook or canvas is the perfect way to capture the tropical trees located on the island, the enchanting lakes in The Woodlands or the exotic birds that can be viewed in Eagles Preserve. There are so many captivating locations around campus that could fill an art gallery, and residents are taking advantage of less foot traffic to sit, admire and capture the essence of the beauty that surrounds them.

Two residents who are no strangers to the art world are Pat and Stokes Fishburne of The Estuary. As many know, Pat and Stokes are a part of the Shell Point Photo Club, and have a passion for capturing wildlife in their natural habitat. It should come as no surprise that they have continued to Pat and Stokes nurture their love of photography Fishburne by exploring the local area.

Each morning, Pat and Stokes take their morning walk on The Island, and recently they have been watching the progress of the osprey nest at the Shell Point Marina. Over the past few weeks, they have photographed the growth of three chicks in the nest, as well as capturing the chicks as they began flapping their wings and getting ready to fledge.

While keeping an eye on the ospreys, Pat and Stokes were told about an eastern screech owl on Sanibel Island.

Upon finding the owl, they found that it had camouflaged itself in a dead palm tree. The resulting photograph shows just how perfectly he matches An Eastern Screech Owl the tree! perfectly camouflaged Aside from continuing their in its tree house.

photography, Pat and Stokes have been making the most of their time at home.

“The first thing I did was deep-clean my house: every surface, cabinet, drawer and closet,” said Pat. Once their home was spotless, she began enjoying new recipes that she had collected through the years, but had not had a chance to try out. “We’ve been eating bean soup, white bean chili, chicken Capri, cornbread, cookies and so forth,” said Pat. Another way that Estuary residents are staying connected, while practicing social distancing, is by waving at their neighbors every Tuesday. Some residents sit at the end of their driveways while others get in their golf carts or bikes, and ride around the neighborhood waving to each other.

Residents have found creative ways to fulfill their purpose by using their gifts of time, talents and treasure to benefit others. Above, Pat Specht plays the piano in her Lakewood home. Meanwhile, King’s Crown resident Michael Hopkins brings a smile to others with his artwork. Fellow King’s Crown neighbor Nan SpragueHoltje volunteers to sort and deliver mail within her building.

Using Time, Talents and Treasure Assisted living residents have also begun to volunteer within their buildings to ensure the safety and well-being of their neighbors. King’s Crown resident Nan Sprague-Holtje volunteers each day to help sort and deliver mail within her building.

She uses her personal protective equipment to keep herself and others safe while making sure they receive their personal mail.

Since social interaction is difficult and limited, residents are determined to put smiles on their friends’ faces and bring some much-needed cheer. Pat Specht of The Springs has been entertaining the residents and staff by playing her piano each day.

Residents stop outside her apartment to listen to the joyful music coming from her piano. To shake things up a bit, Pat even went through her belongings and found a collection of music that she hadn’t played in many years.

Michael Hopkins of King’s Crown has brought joy to his fellow neighbors by wearing themed socks each day. Staff have enjoyed watching him walk around, showcasing his whimsical socks to his

friends. Whether they be alligators, cherries or corn, Michael is having a great time and spreading cheer to those around him by showing off his sock collection.

Independent living residents have also stayed busy making masks and knitting various items to donate. Many are sending notes of encouragement and making phone calls of good cheer to one another. Many more are writing notes of support and gratitude to the Shell Point staff.

It would be easy to assume that, since normal life has ceased and routines have changed, many people would feel lost or lonely. But within the Shell Point community, that is not the case. Many Shell Point residents are a part or experienced the greatest generation; they have faced adversity much greater than this, and have not only survived, but thrived.

Circumstances throughout life change constantly, but residents have proven that they will not be stifled as they continue to stay active, stay creative and lend a hand to their neighbor – now more than ever. If this experience has demonstrated anything, it is that the Shell Point community is stronger than ever, and each person is dedicated to the care and service of their neighbors.

Shell Point Life | June 2020

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Out & About

Each day brings a new adventure at Shell Point.

This collection of photos provides a brief peek at daily life within the community, catching residents staying active and getting engaged in a variety of pastimes – from appreciating the beautiful outdoors to getting creative within the comfort of home.

Covered Cottontails Marge Lee of Lucina has put little masks on the cute critters that are scattered throughout the resident gardens on The Island. These bunnies illustrate current safety precautions in a lighthearted way, amusing the residents who head outdoors for a walk or bicycle ride.

An Attitude of Gratitude The Resident Programming team recently partnered with residents to send messages of support to employees. Many residents stopped by organized stations at the Island Commons to fill out colorful greeting cards with words of appreciation and encouragement for Shell Point staff. The cards, which were collected over a period of several weeks, made their way to many employees, sharing messages of hope, gratitude and love.

A Pop of Color Sylvia Longaker of Oakmont has a smile for everyone she meets during her daily bicycle ride. But it’s not just her positive attitude that brightens up the community. Sylvia has been slowly decorating her bicycle with the colored wristbands that residents and staff receive after completing a proactive healthcare screening, which is required daily to travel between neighborhoods at Shell Point.

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Shell Art Challenge The Resident Programming team recently challenged residents to “shell-abrate” art by decorating and hiding a variety of shells around the community’s more than 700-acre campus. Residents picked up shells and paint from activity tables located in the Woodlands and Island Commons. They were also encouraged to get creative using whatever items from around their home – sharpies, glitter, rhinestones, etc. – and include both initials and the date on their masterpiece.

“How fun is it to be out for your daily exercise and you find a hidden treasure?” smiled Volunteer Coordinator Carol Sperlak. “You could keep the shell, or keep the fun going by re-hiding it for someone else to find!”

One Piece At a Time John and Karen Knapp recently completed this 2,000piece puzzle in the library lounge at the Island Commons, with assistance from Bob and Karen Formica of Cameo. While Karen is already an avid puzzler, and her skills certainly came in handy while tackling this puzzle, her husband Bob was just trying it for the first time! It turned out to be a fun experience for everyone who participated. More puzzles are available at the activity tables located in both the Island and Woodlands Commons buildings.

Two By Air Residents of The Estuary have welcomed a few winged visitors in recent weeks. A pair of bald eagles – following appropriate social distancing guidelines – made their way around the Shell Point Golf Course, Coastal Commons building and The Estuary neighborhood. Photo by Pat Fishburne Shell Point Life | May 2020

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Employees Unite To Kick COVID-19 B Y E M I LY R O S E , P U B L I C R E L AT I O N S C O O R D I N AT O R

Shell Point’s human resources department recently launched a week-long initiative to provide all staff members, who have been working hard during these challenging times, with an opportunity to let loose, have fun and get creative. Each day, employees got the chance to dress in themed attire and show off their inspired looks. Residents played along, donning cheery outfits of their own each day.

On Monday, “crazy socks” were seen throughout the hallways and sidewalks of Shell Point. Many staff members put

Patrick Blanchard

Continued on next page

! y a D k c o S y Craz Tom Irwin

Julie Mohr Debbie Cranford Marcia Hawkins

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Meta Spielman

During Kick COVID-19, Shell Point Today anchor Dan Philgreen introduced the day’s theme with a fun assortment of props.

L-R Carol Sperlak, Dawn Boren, Gabriela Kelly, Jami Smith, Ashley Robbin, Laura Slack and Monica Tison Odile Auquino Fernandez Jerry Wilson

Hat Day!

Steve Ford Darryl Miller

! y a D n o Ne Shell Point Life | June 2020

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Red Day!

Employees Unite!

Continued from page 15

their best foot forward with unique patterns and brightly colored pairs. On Tuesday, everyone put a cap on COVID-19 with a fun “hat day.” From tea party style to Western cowboy brims, employees from a variety of departments donned their finest caps.

On Wednesday, things took a bright turn with the bold theme of “Neon-No COVID-19 More!” Hot pinks, lime greens and highlighter yellows were a few of the lively colors sprinkled throughout the campus buildings that day.

On Thursday, Shell Point staff wore their red “fighting colors” to help spread awareness to stop the spread of the coronavirus. The week came to an end on Friday with a festive Hawaiian theme as staff members said “Aloha” to COVID-19 with tropical prints and accessories.

From the cheerful colors to the smiles spread by staff, it’s clear: Were all in this together.

Peg Felix

Sandy Williamson

Amanda Pendergrast and Tiffany Keene

L-R: Anne Lehotsky, Inga Bredahl, Gina Banasiak, Julie Davey, Sue Beaty and Maureen Thompson

Neon Day!

Hawaiian Day!

Kayla Carillio

John Thorp and Ruth Watson

L-R: Chris Ferrell, Lori Sparks, Jessica Head, Marcelle DeMarco and Don Miknis

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Dave Nixon

Julie Dewitt

Melanie Brod

Taking Flight New Simulator Takes Connected Living Residents to High Places

W

hen it comes to keeping the residents of Connected Living at The Springs entertained and fulfilled, the sky’s the limit! At least, that’s what the building’s activities team found after the purchase of a special flight simulator allowed two former pilots to relive a cherished hobby.

Each day, the Connections team engages their residents through a program called It’s Never Too Late (IN2L). “As part of the IN2L program, activities team members ask residents about their hobbies and interests. The answers are then used to develop engaging activities that will spark a positive reaction,” said Memory Care Activities Leader Tiffany Keene, who works at Connected Living at The Springs.

The activities team soon learned that quite a few residents had past aviation experience. “We bought a Microsoft Flight Simulator X, which works in tandem with the IN2L program and can simulate the experience of flying a plane or glider with the use of a joystick,” she explained.

The simulator’s maiden voyage was piloted by resident Chuck Durrell, who flew during his time in the service.

“During our flight in the glider, we chatted about many things and even fiddled with the weather effects within the simulation. With tears in his eyes, he said the program seemed so realistic that it reminded him of the good old days flying

Chuck Durrell

in Cuba,” said Tiffany. “Chuck will be filing a flight plan for a future adventure!”

Next on the runway was resident Darryl Miller, whose Cessna C-172 had a full tank of fuel, ready for take-off. “As soon as we safely lifted off the runway, I knew we were in for a wonderful flight,” laughed Tiffany.

Darryl skillfully handled some early turbulence to find clear skies up above. “Daryl said that the plane’s engine made him feel as if he were flying ‘the real thing.’ When he was a small child, he learned to fly from a neighbor on a nearby farm,” said Tiffany.

“We were able to take off and land from the very same airport in Youngstown, Ohio, using the very same plane that Darryl once flew in his youth. He was even so kind as to give me a lesson, energetically explain-

Darryl Miller

ing what each gauge on the dash meant, what they did, and how one could fly just by using the gauges when it was cloudy or raining hard.”

Several Connected Living staff members expressed how it felt to watch the simulated flights. “Watching our residents ‘take flight’ in Connected Living and seeing the excitement in their faces is all you need to realize how much technology can enhance quality of life! This has left our hearts full,” said Director of Connections John Thorp.

“I had never seen anything like this before. And the residents looked so happy!” said Memory Support Specialist Marial Febles, a longtime Shell Point employee.

“This is why we do what we do. It’s all about the smiles.”

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Arbor resident Betty Symes and her daughter, Cathy, know a thing or two about putting down roots. Betty’s beautification efforts have transformed the raised garden beds outside her window, pictured here in early spring.

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Grounded in Tradition Family Floral Business Sprouts A Lifetime Love of Gardening B Y E M I LY R O S E P U B L I C R E L AT I O N S C O O R D I N AT O R

orticulturist, green thumb and floral extraordinaire are just a few of the terms used to describe someone with a passion for gardening. They can also be used to describe several residents at Shell Point.

Just ask Betty Symes. At 95 years old, Betty spends many of her days tending to the flowerbeds located just outside her assisted living apartment at The Arbor.

“Gardening takes me back to my roots,” said Betty. “I married into the floral business when I was in my 20s and it’s been a passion of mine ever since.”

For more than 50 years, she and her husband, Jack, owned and operated Symes & Son Flowers located in Canton, Ohio.

The blooming business, including an expansive greenhouse, spread out over multiple acres of land and an accompanying floral shop that Betty ran with the help of her family. “Our two kids grew up in the business,” she said.

“I remember having my daughter Cathy in her bassinette beside me in the greenhouse as I worked.

She basically grew up surrounded by flowers.”

After moving to Shell Point, Betty wasted little time getting involved in the horticultural programs offered throughout the community and even initiated some new ones with the help of Shell Point’s staff. Each year, residents at The Arbor celebrate “Arbor Day” with a special program created by Betty. Since the annual celebration began, she has planted an assortment of trees in honor of former residents and her late husband, Jack.

In addition to the colorful flower beds and trees, Betty also has a passion for butterflies. “I’ve loved butterflies since I was a kid,” smiled Betty. “I remember spending endless hours chasing them through my grandparent’s farm in Ohio.”

Her love for the winged-creatures followed her to Shell Point after she planted several milkweed plants outside her apartment, which now attract numerous Monarch butterflies every day. Betty is also a volunteer at the Shell Point Butterfly Habitat, where she shares her interests with like-minded friends and neighbors.

Planting, watering and growing a variety of blooms have all become popular family traditions for Betty. Her daughter Cathy visits her often at The Arbor and they work together, creating floral masterpieces for everyone to enjoy.

“Gardening is a very therapeutic process,” said Cathy. “My mom is able to stay active and healthy doing something she’s always loved in the beautiful Florida sunshine. Plus, it brings back such happy memories from our childhood.”

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Vicki Waterstradt in Rose Garden

Passion Flower

Mallard

Sue and Malcolm Harpham

Shell Point Life | June 2020

Walk With Me Bringing Joy Through Facebook

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

It began with my hobbies—birding and photography. It was March 20, 2020, and one much-anticipated spring trip had already been canceled with two more in doubt. Meetings and activities were disappearing from my calendar so, enjoying the late March temperatures, I began spending two hours or more walking around Shell Point—my camera and binoculars always at the ready, with my friend, Pam Blough (Cameo.)

Later that day, I decided to post a “Walk With Me” photo album on Facebook. The first one included photographs of someone biking, a double-crested cormorant, a blue jay and a gardenia. My caption said, “Nothing exciting, but everything precious.” Little was I to know that would be prophetic.

The next day, I stopped by the Butterfly Habitat and took time to capture a julia and a zebra longwing butterfly. Nearby I found a yellow-bellied sapsucker and took the first of many shots of the six osprey nests around The Island.

On Facebook, two of the first people to respond were a couple who had already been confined to their apartment in Spain for three weeks and a friend who had moved to Hong Kong to begin a new job and was quarantined in his hotel for two weeks.

They both began “walking” with me, as did a teacher near Chicago whose trip to Florida was replaced by snowflakes out her kitchen window. Many Facebook friends thanked me for my photographs and many

knew well from their time in Minnesota.

They also lived near the tree with an Eastern screech owl and began relaying information about when and where to see it. I contacted both couples when a pair of oystercatchers appeared at the beach on The Island, another rarity to Shell Point. We also reported sightings of three red-breasted mergansers who visited for about a week. The shared adventure of seeing birds together helped our friendZebra Longwing ships grow.

Some days, I visited the Butterfly Habitat and took a long time just standing, enjoying the dozen or more species of butterflies flitting back and forth, challenging my camera with a “Catch me if you can!” attitude.

Over several visits and by taking time to stand and wait, I was able to capture photographs of spotted birds rarely seen around Shell Point. several species I had never photographed As Pam and I walked, now six feet apart, we before, including the malachite butterfly. spotted pairs of pileated woodpeckers which My patience was also rewarded by observcalled, danced and hammered all around ing and photographing both a gold-wing swallowtail and a pipevine swallowtail in The Island.

Friendships blossomed as I began run- the process of laying eggs.

I also began photographing ways in ning into fellow birders, Malcolm and Sue Harpham (Harbor Court) and David and which other Shell Point residents were Kathy Erbel (Tellidora). Kathy was the one responding positively to our new way of who called me one evening and announced, life. Every day I saw gardeners working alone in their private plots, watering, “I’m seeing the loon right now!”

Sure enough, a dash to the river side weeding and planting. Others cleared, of The Island allowed a look at a juvenile common loon—a bird Kathy and David Continued on next page said they were encouraged by the posts.

As I added The Woodlands to my daily walks, I also posted landscape photographs of the various neighborhoods of Shell Point for those who had never visited here, as well as for friends who had connections through parents or siblings.

As April’s temperatures warmed up, I continued to benefit from my walks as I

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Little Sulphur Butterfly

Red-Bellied Woodpecker

Brown Thrasher

John Nelson Playing Dulcimer

WALK WITH ME Continued from page 21

planted or trimmed flora in the Butterfly Habitat. Individual volunteers also cared for the orchids and even brought plants outdoors for visitors passing by later to enjoy.

In the gardens, the Butterfly Habitat, and around the courts, I began stopping to photograph hibiscus, passion flower, pipevine flower, orchids, zinnias and roses. The responses to these on Facebook indicate I have given people in Ohio, Thailand or Oregon a reason to smile.

So many people who might normally 22

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spend an hour or so in the fitness centers now waved at each other from a distance on the walkways, rode bicycles or scooters, or practiced Tai Chi on the beach. The only change was the increase in the number of people wearing masks as the weeks wore on.

Employees began taking on different responsibilities and I sometimes stopped one to take a photograph. I found my hairdresser and the captain of the Suzy Q manning an entry gate, while a housekeeper handed out cleaning supplies. Instead of serving a meal to my table, I encountered waiters and even a chef delivering meals to resident apartments. No matter where they were, each one always had a smile and

always asked how I was doing, no matter what their new assignment.

As I write this, the new normal of my life and the lives of those around the world continues to limit our circumstances. Those same limitations have blessed me in ways I would not have imagined a year ago. My extended time outdoors has brought me in touch with birds, butterflies, and plants in a new way. I have seen friendships grow, even with the restrictions of social distancing. Most importantly, my heart has been warmed to realize I have been able to reach into others’ lives via social media to share the beauty I have found around me.

Here’s to finding the beauty that tomorrow will bring.

Magnolia Blossom

Marsh Rabbit

Malachite Butterfly

Indian Blanket

Bicyclist Transporting Poinsettias

Shell Point recently “topped off” the flagship 200,000-square-foot health center, which will include professional healthcare services, a stateof-the-art medical center and a modern skilled nursing facility.

Larsen Health Center Reaches Pinnacle of Construction B Y E M I LY R O S E , P U B L I C R E L A T I O N S C O O R D I N A T O R

Shell Point recently reached a major construction milestone as it “topped off” its future 200,000-square-foot medical facility, the Larsen Health Center. The six-level, 180-bed skilled nursing facility will feature private rooms, a full service health clinic, physical therapy services, pharmacy, enhanced memory care spaces and more.

“For the first time in our 50-year history, residents will now have the option for private rooms or companion suites as well as increased access to state-ofthe-art healthcare services in a more comfortable and convenient setting,” said Shell Point President Martin Schappell.

When finished, the Larsen Health Center will include a grand entrance and lobby, rehabilitation center with therapy pool, dental suite, nursing stations, dining and living rooms, salon and day spa, sunrooms and a pharmacy.

The anticipated date for the project’s completion is fall 2021.

The Larsen Health Center will expand Shell Point’s robust healthcare system, which already consists of two medical centers staffed by a team of fulltime health professionals. This includes five primary care physicians, five nurse practitioners and dozens of healthcare support professionals.

A nationally recognized leader in the retirement industry, Shell Point is the largest single-site continuing care retirement community (CCRC) in Florida and the second largest in the country with 2,500 residents and more than 1,200 employees.

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Larsen Health Center will provide a nurturing environment for compassionate resident care, offering private rooms, tailored lifestyle programming and excellent healthcare services.

Navigating the Process

of Reporting Resident Concerns B Y N O L A M O K E YA N E , H E A LT H Y L I V I N G C O O R D I N A T O R

Here’s a frequent scenario: You, a benevolent person, notice one of your neighbors beginning to decline in his functioning. He lives alone, has some mobility challenges and takes care of his activities of daily living – cooking, cleaning and shopping for groceries – on his own.

As a caring neighbor, you offer to help; but the more you offer assistance, the more you wonder what this person does while they are alone in their home. Then, in an even worse-case scenario, they have a medical event that causes you to be even more concerned about their ability to live independently.

What do you do? How much help should you offer this neighbor without overextending yourself or enabling them?

Who should you call to report your concerns? What exactly does Shell Point do to help these residents?

We Are Here to Help The Healthy Living Coordination department frequently receives calls from residents reporting concerns about a neighbor’s decline in health status. This is both encouraged and appreciated, as it is good for residents who see their neighbors regularly to voice their concerns to this department so that the team may offer assistance.

The challenge for a reporting neighbor is that of wondering, “What happens now?”

Due to HIPAA laws regarding confidentiality, a healthy living coordinator (HLC) is not authorized to share the outcome of a report made by a concerned resident. This may leave the reporting neighbor wondering if anyone has followed up with the resident of concern and what actions have been taken. In some cases, a resident may determine in their mind that their neighbor should move to assisted living, and may be wondering when the healthy living coordination team will arrange this move.

When HLCs receive a call about a resident of concern, rest assured there are

Are you ready to be connected with an extensive network of helpful resources and tools, expertise and collaborative support? The Healthy Living Coordination team may be reached by calling (239) 454-2299.

a number of steps taken to address this issue. First, the healthy living coordinator will follow up with a visit to the resident’s home without mentioning the name of the reporting resident(s). This ensures that trust remains in the relationship between neighbors.

During this visit, HLCs will first assess the resident’s home environment and relevant aspects of their health status, and will then offer various resources to help residents live as safely as possible in independent living. These resources include, but are not limited to, home care, Meals On Wheels, respite or the Day Retreat program, follow-up appointments at the J. Howard Wood Medical Center, etc.

A resident and their HLC may also decide to revisit assisted living planning to determine if a move is closer on the horizon than it may have been in the past.

Lastly, and if necessary, the HLC may contact family members or the resident’s healthcare surrogate, if appropriate, to inform them of concerns for their loved

one. The healthy living coordinator may also express concerns to the Shell Point healthcare team, including the resident’s physician and/or the behavioral health department.

It is important to note that while it is natural to want to see a visible and viable resolution to your concerns, it is imperative that the Healthy Living Coordination team prioritize each and every resident’s right to self-determination, treating them with dignity and respect. It’s essential for concerned residents to know that healthy living coordinators will follow up on a reported concern.

Please keep in mind that, unless there’s a question of a resident’s capacity to make their own healthcare decisions, which can only be determined by a physician, every resident has the right to make their own choices. It is the HLC’s role to support them and their family in these healthcare decisions, while ensuring that the decisions also support the resident’s safety in independent living.

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Protecting Yourself from Fraudulent IRS Calls

B Y A N N A S M I T H , M A N A G I N G E X E C U T I V E O F F I N E M A R K N AT I O N A L B A N K & T R U S T

While the U.S. government’s recent decision to extend the federal tax filing deadline to July 15, 2020 for all taxpayers may allow many Americans to breathe a sigh of relief during this uncertain time, it also may provide fraudsters with additional opportunity to take advantage of unsuspecting citizens. This article discusses the intimidating tactics used by IRS phone call scammers and shares tips for identifying them.

As the 2020 tax season continues,

taxpayers should be wary of any phone calls they may receive “from the IRS.” In this common gambit, IRS fraudsters use sophisticated call-spoofing technology to make incoming phone numbers appear to be legitimate.

For example, to entice their victims to pick up the phone, scammers will spoof the

telephone assistance service number of the IRS (800) 829-1040 or call from numbers that have the same area code as the victim.

Once their target is on the line, scammers will try numerous intimidating tactics to convince their victims to pay the “IRS,” including threatening them with arrest, jail time and seizure of assets.

As always, FineMark is here to help! If you have any questions about this article, please contact the branch office on The Island at (239) 461-5999.

Common IRS Phone Fraud Tricks

To help protect clients from this type of fraud, FineMark has compiled a list of tricks that IRS scammers often use when making fraudulent phone calls. To convince you to pay a phony IRS bill, scammers may: • Spoof the IRS toll-free number (800-829-1040) on caller IDs to make it appear that the IRS is calling.

What to Do If You Receive A Fraudulent Call If you or someone you know receives a fraudulent IRS phone call, hang up immediately. Never provide any personal information over the phone or via email to anyone.

If you believe the IRS is legitimately trying to contact you, call the IRS directly at (800) 829-1040. To report a fraudulent phone call, contact the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) at (800) 366-4484. To learn more about tax scams, visit the Tax Scams and Consumer Alerts web page on the IRS. gov website at https://www.irs.gov/uac/ tax-scams-consumer-alerts.

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• Use background noise to mimic the sounds of a busy call center.

• Leave urgent callback requests through “robo-calls” or via phishing emails.

• Use fake names and recite fake IRS badge numbers.

• Recite the last four digits of a victim’s Social Security Number (SSN). Never share your SSN over the phone or via email with anyone.

• Use the victim’s name, address and/or other personal information to make the call sound official.

• Threaten victims with jail time or driver’s license revocation. To support these claims, scammers may call back and pretend to be a local police officer or DMV agent.

• Ask for immediate payment, usually through a prepaid debit card or a wire transfer.

• Send bogus IRS emails to support their fraudulent phone calls.

of Lifelong Learning At

Seeing 20/20:

Asking the Right Questions

She ll

P oi nt

JUNE PREVIEW EGYPT: HISTORY AND CULTURE SERIES Professor Adrian Kerr

B Y J O N H I G H , M A N AG E R O F T H E AC A D E M Y O F L I F E LO N G L E A R N I N G

In the educational world, asking questions is a vital part of the learning process. This concept has been drilled into students from their early grade school years through higher education – and perhaps more so at those higher levels. It has been said that asking a lot of questions unlocks learning and improves one’s interpersonal relationships.

When you ask a question, what are you really doing? According to Alison Wood Brooks in her 2018 Harvard Business Review article entitled The Surprising Power of Questions, “Questioning is a uniquely powerful tool for developing connections, exchanging ideas, building rapport or trust, and uncovering the unseen, potential pitfalls. It spurs learning and can positively contribute to the depth, breadth and value of one’s experience.”

Some people are naturally inquisitive, and asking a question or two is just routine – and somewhat predictable. This “desire to know more” has often been the fuel that inspired innovation, leading to discovery and the enlightenment of mankind.

History has recorded the amazing achievements of those individuals who just had to ask the question, “What’s next?”

Asking the right questions may be just as important in the living room or hallway as it is in the laboratory or boardroom. Questions that you ask in your normal, everyday conversations reveal a lot about who you are and what you value.

“A conversation is a dance that requires

partners to be in sync – it’s a mutual pushand-pull that unfolds over time,” said Brooks. Transparency, authenticity, and genuineness in conversation are the building blocks of trust and are essential to the development of any lasting relationship.

Asking good questions is an important part of The Academy of Lifelong Learning at Shell Point. The very definition of what it means to be a “lifelong learner” encompasses the desire to learn and seeking to know more, which will cause you to ask good questions.

Why do so many hold back when it comes to asking questions? Are students too egocentric or even apathetic, and don’t care enough to ask? Or perhaps, do they worry that they’ll ask the wrong question and be viewed as impolite or incompetent? It has been said that once an individual learns how beneficial good questions can be, they will end far fewer sentences with a period and many, many more with a question mark.

So, what questions are you asking?

The real challenge is to ask yourself those questions that will inspire you to expand your knowledge, mind and perspective, which will help you grow and ultimately fulfill your God-given purpose.

As the month of June unfolds, be sure to consider these learning opportunities offered by The Academy of Lifelong Learning. Stay connected by watching SPTV and reading the Weekly Reminder for updated schedules and course offerings.

MUSIC OF THE WORLD Dr. Thomas Cimarusti

INTRODUCTION TO SHAKESPEARE, LECTURE AND DISCUSSION ON OTHELLO Mr. Ray Boyce (Rosemont)

WORKS OF VINCENT VAN GOGH Carol Jonson

FRAUDS, SCAMS, AND IDENTIFY THEFT Peggy Lance, Lee County Sheriff’s Office

1,000 BIRDS AND COUNTING Dotty Morrison (Cellana)

TECH TALKS Presented by Shell Point residents

THE SWAMP

A film hosted by the J.N. Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge

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Ideas on the Run Behind the Scenes with an Accomplished Inventor B Y B E T H FA L L E T TA

The residents of Shell Point might recognize Junonia resident Wendell Leimbach by his gait, or gym shorts, t-shirt and sneakers as he tackles his morning run around the impeccable community grounds.

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W

endell Leimbach of Junonia is one of several inventors at Shell Point, although he is perhaps the most active with 13 patents and two pending. When you see him along the jogging path, it is likely he is formulating his next invention. “Everybody has to have a place where they do their creative thinking, and mine is when I run,” he said about his penchant for running.

Whether Wendell’s inventions were made during his career as an engineer or now, in the comfort of his Shell Point living room, they are created to fill the gap in a process. “I reach this inventive space

by using what I call the ‘Fuzzy Front End,’ which means I listen to the end user, introduce a solution and develop what will work in the marketplace,” he said.

Professionally, Wendell has been involved in manufacturing engineering and business management throughout his career. After graduating from Johns Hopkins University with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, the inventor began his career and spent 17 years at Black & Decker in engineering, automation and global management. During that time, he also earned a master’s degree in business management from Johns Hopkins University.

Filling the Gap It was at Black & Decker where Wendell’s first invention was conceived nearly 50 years ago. “As a problem solver, I analyze situations where an enhancement would create a more efficient means to achieve success,” he explained.

For his very first invention, as part of a team of engineers, a small part for an electric motor was created to introduce greater automation to an existing product, ultimately leading to huge financial savings for Black & Decker.

Continued on next page

“Everybody has to have a place where they do their creative thinking, and mine is when I run.”

–Wendell Leimbach

Wendell’s daily runs eventually turned into training for United States Marine Corps Historic Half Marathons, which he has raced in stride with his son. When the 2020 race was cancelled, Wendell completed the run virtually on May 16 with a team of Shell Point residents cheering him on!

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INVENTING ON THE RUN Continued from page 29

Subsequently, Wendell held management and consulting positions for numerous companies, including American Express and Texaco. He also headed up several of his own companies, most recently including Bollman Associates, LLC, in his home state of Maryland.

Many years and several patents later, following the 2015 Baltimore riots, Wendell conducted a root cause analysis of the incident to determine the gap in the law enforcement’s means of

Bringing Ideas to Life

managing the situation. Ultimately, he concluded the police were in need of additional tools to handle varying levels of offenders. That determination led to his invention of the Lockup Net, a netting system that facilitates situational closure without going hands on with the combatant. This, in turn, minimizes the risk of injury to both officer and suspect.

In Maryland, Wendell teamed up with his county police department, as well as neighboring counties, to fine-tune the product, along with its patented storage container.

Wendell’s latest patent, issued in February 2020, is a mode of transport that

allows for more efficient transportation and land access for the military. His product is currently being considered by the U.S. Marine Corps. “As the father of a Marine Corps colonel, this project is the one of which I am most proud and excited to see come to fruition,” said Wendell.

Hot Off the Press Once the idea is created, an integral part of the invention process is creating a prototype. In Wendell’s case, a userfriendly, CAD software program created

by Google provides the tools he needs for the design aspect. Thanks to a Christmas

What’s an inventor to do when they need to pitch their big idea? Make a prototype, of course!

Galvanized by the 2015 Baltimore riots, Wendell invented a field device for law enforcement called the Lockup Net. RIGHT: Wendell developed prototypes with netting that is traditionally used for lacrosse goals. When thrown, the device can be pulled tight by two officers working in tandem to detain a subject. Wendell created the full prototype (ABOVE) by modifying everyday objects and utilizing his 3D printer to customize select components.

When it’s time to make an idea into reality, Wendell uses the 3D printer in his Junonia home office to create prototypes.

The pieces of this colorful mobile came from his 3D printer.

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gift of a 3D printer from his son, the prototyping process can be accomplished in the comfort and convenience of Wendell’s home at Shell Point.

Using the 3D printer sitting atop a desk in his office, Wendell can transform the creation on his computer monitor into an accurate, to-scale replica. “Whatever you can conceive of or draw, you can print out,” he explained, displaying several prototypes he has created.

“It is something that people at Shell Point could do if they were mechanically inclined enough to want to do it,” he added, as it relates to the 3D printing process.

Next Steps So, what can be expected next from this creative inventor? His current passion project is developing potable water systems and the means of supplying household electricity, as well as an energy-efficient cooking device for those who live in developing countries.

These ideas were prompted by a presentation given by a Junonia neighbor, who shared with their men’s group about his experiences as a missionary in Sierra Leone. To bridge this gap, Wendell is looking forward to developing life-changing solutions for the rural

and desperately poor people in developing countries through missionaries around the world, in collaboration with ECHO Global Farm in Fort Myers and The Village Church at Shell Point.

Beyond working on this project, Wendell has entered three of his 3D printed art creations into the upcoming SPARKLE! competition held for Tribby Arts Center and he is delighted that all have been accepted for display. When not limited by social distancing, he also spends up to three mornings a week on the pickleball court, and prioritizes family time with his wife, Sally. n

LEFT: Another bright idea, Wendell designed a 138-foot, high-speed armored amphibious assault vehicle that he calls the Medium Load High Speed Connector (MLHSC). The 42-meter craft can transport troops from ships to the shore, and can also serve as a recon landing craft. ABOVE: And tuck this one closer to Wendell and the display setup Wendell brought his invention to the Marine Corps War Fighting Lab, which showcased roughly 100 mature technologies for top Navy and Marine Corps leadership to consider for acquisition. His presentation included the results of an advanced naval technology exercise that involved ship-to-shore maneuver exploration and experimentation that took place at Camp Pendleton in San Diego, California.

Wendell has also taken an interest in developing household electricity and cooking solutions for underdeveloped countries in Africa. He has already drafted plans and created the prototype for an outdoor, alternative-energy stove that can be used in rural villages.

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The Music of Love B Y C A R O L S P E R L A K , V O L U N T E E R C O O R D I N AT O R

Some time ago, the Connected Living team was approached by resident volunteers because they wanted to do something special for the residents of Connected Living. In keeping with the mission of Shell Point Retirement Community, the volunteers saw an opportunity to achieve many aspects of the organization’s mission.

Often, the mission of Shell Point is abbreviated to a few words within the larger context: Dedicated to the service of God and the care of His people. Those few words truly can guide staff and volunteers in what they do each and every day.

But so much more is included in Shell Point’s mission. The community’s services are “designed to enhance the independence and dignity of its residents through Claire Smith-O’Neil and spiritual, social, recreational and Evelyn Landbo physical programs.” The generhas the ability for anyone to osity of the Connected Living “play” songs, as there are preresident volunteers has helped programmed songs that can be Shell Point meet that goal in “played” by someone who has such a meaningful way. no musical talent. What great It’s well known how fun to have a sing-along! important music is in everyAnd of course, it can be day life. It provides entertainplayed by those who do have ment, joy and meaning. The musical skills. Arlys Bowman, volunteers recognized this and Arlys Eubanks a resident of Connected agreed that a piano would be a wonderful gift to residents. The piano Living at The Springs, was the first resident that was purchased for Connected Living to tickle the ivories. Arlys has a passion for

music and served as the music director at her church.

Arlys and Richard Eubanks, a memory support specialist, were very helpful in setting up the new piano.

Staff also learned that Arlys’s husband, Leon Chuck Durrell Bowman, will be able to tune the piano from time to time, as he has an extensive background in that area.

Chuck Durrell, who also resides in Connected Living at The Springs, is pictured performing for residents and staff alongside Ruth Watson, the activities leader at Connected Living. Chuck was part of his church choir and enjoys collecting sheet music for the piano. Also pictured is Claire Smith-O’Neil and Evelyn Landbo. Both ladies were part of their respective church choirs.

Ruth Watson and Tiffany Keene, who lead activities at Connected Living, look forward to Arlys and Chuck’s playing for their fellow residents, adding another spiritual and social program to the Connected Living routine.

All of the staff at Connected Living at The Springs would like to thank the kind and generous volunteers for this amazing gift of music for residents to enjoy.

Ahead of the Pack B Y D AW N B O R E N , D I R E C T O R O F R E S I D E N T P R O G R A M M I N G

Have you heard what the Boy Scouts have been doing to bring a little cheer to residents? Island Concierge Monica Tison and her son Daniel spearheaded an initiative by the Boy Scout Pack 1740 of Sanibel Island to assist in writing and decorating cards for Shell Point residents.

Twelve diligent Boy Scouts embraced this service project, making cards with messages of hope, support and good cheer. Such messages as, “Let’s beat COVID-19,” “We can do this 32

Shell Point Life | June 2020

together,” “I care about you” and “You are not alone” are just a few of the messages that have been shared encouraging residents to “Make each day beautiful.”

Getting an encouraging card is a wonderful treat. Shell Point would like to say a big “thank you” to Monica Tison and the Boy Scouts from Pack 1740 for giving of their time and service to bring a smile to residents. Have a great day, Shell Point; and as always, stay busy, stay connected, stay positive and stay well!

TRIB NOTES

Let’s Go Shopping at The Tribby

BY MICHAEL WEISS, FINE & PERFORMING ARTS MANAGER

In addition to the galleries; dance, music and art studios; theater; garden; literary lounge and café at Tribby Arts Center, you will also find Serendipity – a specialty shop tucked inside the Shell Point Gallery on the first floor.

Serendipity will carry unique artist and artisan-made items, including: • Fine and Decorative Arts • Art Quilts and Decorative Textiles • Art-Related Items (i.e., Notecards with Images of Paintings or Photographs) • Photography

• • • • •

Artful Crafts Wearable Art Books and Other Literary Works CDs and Recordings DVDs and Other Media

The Inventory Selection Process Begins With its intimate size, the shop will have some limitation on the number of items it can carry. However, that does not mean its inventory can’t reflect the range of high quality work produced by Shell Point’s creative community.

A juried selection process will facilitate the rotation of resident artwork on an annual basis.

This summer, Shell Point creators will be invited to submit several pieces representing their work for a juried review.

Outside professionals with experience in galleries and museum shops will recommend which creators shall have their works carried in Serendipity, from the opening through December 31, 2021.

Literary works, recordings and other media will be reviewed by professionals in those fields.

Each year, the juried selection process will take place, ensuring a rotation of artists and craftspeople on an annual basis.

It will be the creators themselves who will be selected, not necessarily the items they submit. The jurors will be looking to get a sense of the medium, style, fit, finish and feel of the types of pieces they make.

The jurors’ evaluations and, ultimately, recommendations, will be based on representative categories of items, ensuring that Serendipity carries as broad a variety of items as possible.

If you would like information about how to submit works for consideration to be a Serendipity supplier, please contact Mary Buck of Parkwood at (239) 246-4454.

So, when you’re stopping in for an afternoon at one of the studios or coming

by Tribby Arts Center for a performance in the Connie Brown Hall, be sure to check out Serendipity and the array of unique items that will be there.

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10 Fine Hair Secrets B Y R O B Y N C H U R C H , S A LO N & S PA M A N AG E R

Fine hair is a type of hair texture, which is classified in terms of the width or circumference of the actual hair strands. If you have fine hair, your individual strands are smaller in diameter than someone with coarse hair.

Hair density is completely different.

Density refers to the how close the hair follicles or strands are to each other. It is entirely possible to have fine hair that is thick, or coarse hair that is thin.

If you have fine hair, you know it can be both a blessing and a curse. On the bright side, your skinny strands don’t need much product to coat them. Often, fine hair is naturally silky, smooth and responds to heat styling easily. On the downside, fine hair can be tricky to obtain volume and can take some finagling to look great, especially if you have fine hair with low density.

10 Secrets To Great Looking Strands If You Have Fine Hair 1. To avoid limp strands, wash every day or every other day with a volumizing shampoo. Look for a lightweight, sulfate-free shampoo designed to remove build up, while also nourishing and strengthening hair to reveal its natural beauty.

2. While you want to keep your locks

conditioned, overly moisturized hair can end up flat and lifeless. Use conditioner sparingly, focusing on the ends of the hair.

You can also use a leave-in treatment that will repair and detangle.

3. Keep in mind that fine hair is much

more susceptible to breakage when it is wet. After you shampoo, pat the moisture out of your hair with a towel rather than vigorously rubbing it. Use a comb or a “wet brush” for the same reason.

4. Eat biotin-rich foods like nuts and bananas.

5. For instant body, use a lightweight volumizing product to give your fine hair bounce without weighing it down. Less is more with fine hair, so don’t overdo it.

6. Blow dry on medium-low heat, upside down, using your fingers. Too much brushwork can make your fine hair limp. Dry your hair at least 90% before styling with your round brush.

7. A small amount of volumizing powder at the crown will add some additional volume but, again, less is more. Volumizing texture sprays or root lifters are also effective. Finish with hair spray to lock out humidity and maintain the volume you have just created.

8. The foundation for beautiful hair

includes great products and a great cut! In general, the best haircuts for fine hair are shorter. This is all thanks to gravity. If your hair doesn’t have natural volume or high density, the weight of longer hair will only weigh it down more. If you are not willing to sacrifice your length, there are haircuts and products to make this possible.

9. When looking for a new style, be

sure you are selecting one that matches the fineness or coarseness of your hair, as well as the density of your hair, to avoid disappointment. Share pictures with a stylist you have a relationship with for an honest and professional opinion as to whether or not the styles you selected are achievable.

10. A few hairstyle ideas for fine

hair include a “bob” hairstyle; long layers, because if layers are too short, the volume will be difficult without heavy product use for a stiff feel; wispy bangs, keeping them lightweight and avoiding heavy bangs; and a texturized style for additional movement.

The stylists at the Shell Point Salons have fine experience in this area, and will gladly take time to guide you with any styling challenges you may have while selecting the right style for you.

Consultations are always complimentary!

34

Shell Point Life | June 2020

JUNE SPECIAL OFFER

10% off

Volumizing Shampoo, detangler (shown) and volumizing styling aides.

THE COVID

Sabbath

B Y R E V. A N D R E W H A W K I N S , P H . D . , S E N I O R P A S T O R , T H E V I L L A G E C H U R C H

As someone wryly observed,“Quarantine has turned us all into dogs.

We roam the house all day looking for food. We are told ‘no’ if we get too close to strangers. And we get really excited about car rides.”

The whole episode with the coronavirus has changed us. We have had to behave in radically different ways. We have been “social distancing,” “self-quarantining,” “sheltering in place,” wearing masks and washing our hands until they’re ready to fall off.

I wonder how many of our behavior changes will be permanent? What kinds of things will we continue to do when all this is over? I hope we won’t be condemned for shaking someone’s hand. I can’t imagine a community where we’re ostracized for giving someone a hug. I certainly don’t want to have to wear a mask every time I go to the grocery store. I really do hope we can leave some of those behavior changes behind.

Now washing hands more frequently – I can live with that. Covering a sneeze – of course. Staying home when we’re sick – sure, let’s do it.

But something else has happened to us during this episode. We stopped. That’s right, we just stopped. Magically our social calendars cleared. Our obligations evaporated. Our commitments were cancelled.

We slowed down. We put the brakes on.

That sounds vaguely familiar. Israel was commanded to stop and put the brakes on. It was called the Sabbath. It even made the top ten!

“Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the LORD your God. In it you shall do no work...” (Exodus 20:9-10, NKJV).

Israel’s Sabbath was to be a blessing. God promised to provide seven days of provisions in six days of work – what a deal! But over time Israel looked a gift horse in the mouth. They didn’t trust in God’s provision. They ignored Sabbaths for decades. And eventually, God enforced a Sabbath. The Promised Land needed a rest. So God threw them out of the land. It was called the Babylonian Captivity. Judah would remain in Babylon for 70 years, “... until the land had enjoyed her Sabbaths” (2 Chronicles 36:21).

COVID-19 has been an enforced Sabbath. The earth has benefited. Smog has lifted from cities perpetually inundated with pollution. Rivers have cleared. The oceans can catch a breath.

Some of us have benefited too! We have actually experienced Sabbath. Instead of squeezing our personal time with God, our prayer life and our Bible reading into our busy social calendars, we’ve majored in spiritual refreshment.

One member of our community shared this — Finding peace and comfort just being at home has enabled me to slow down, feel closer to God and appreciate [my husband] and [our dog] more fully.

It enhances my sensitivity to know that Jesus is right here at home and I sense His precious presence more intensely! I think of Him almost constantly, not because of need, but because I am renewed in His greatness, sovereignty, knowledge of me and all things!

Another wrote — God has brought to my heart, mind and thoughts those folks whom God wants me to remember in prayer, mostly so that each would find feelings of friendship when separated by distance.

And another — During this whole period of time I have spent time in prayer and reading God’s Word. I have thought of others I know from The Village Church who have recently lost their spouses and I have been praying for them. This is a great opportunity to grow closer to the Lord, to become aware of the needs others have and to pray for a revival in our land.

That’s the essence of Sabbath keeping.

And I hope that’s a behavior change we will keep. May God bless you as you find His presence especially satisfying in your times of Sabbath.

Shell Point Life | June 2020

35

Natu re’s Noteb ook

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

Copacabana

I was immediately suspicious as the opening credits rolled, and sharply protested, “This looks like a musical.” My mother reasoned, “It has Groucho Marx, so it must be a comedy.” I was about to depart, leaving her to watch the wretched musical alone, when Groucho suddenly appeared in the scene, instantly cracking wise. He was accompanied by a tall beautiful woman, fashionably dressed. I quickly found the sofa.

The Caatinga is a biome located in the Northeastern part of Brazil that juts out into the Atlantic and appears as if it were made to fit into the indentation of Africa’s west coast like the pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. In the local Tupi language, Caatinga means “white woods,” because of the bleached white and droughtstricken plants. The trees here are small, thorny and tough.

But, the Caatinga also has a three-month rainy season when the desert comes alive.

Flowers bloom, insects flourish and life lives vigorously in this short window of plenty.

Although Maria was born in Portugal, her family soon immigrated to Rio de Janeiro. As a young girl, she worked in the city boutiques learning to construct couture hats for stylish ladies. At home she sang and danced the operas of Bizet that her father enjoyed on his phonograph.

Maria’s performing talents earned her the familial nickname of Carmen.

In the next scene of the film, the fashionable woman was on the stage of Club Copacabana with a full orchestra playing a Latin beat. She sang something that was not quite English, but rather a repeating “rikki tikki tavi” sound. Her dress was ruffled and sparkly like a New Orleans debutant. Her hat was captivating. I could discern a banana and grapes clearly, yet the other fruits were round, fabric orbs that could have been oranges, or apples, or even pomegranates. I stared incredulously at the skyscraper of fruit balanced upon Carmen Miranda’s head for my first time.

Angelonia is the Latinized spelling. The scientists that named this plant believed that the individual flower appeared as the wings of an angel. The tiny, multiple flowers are produced on

tall spikes, one stacked upon another. In the Caatinga, angelonia are pollinated by a special oil bee and the flower produces an oily floral substance from minute hairs in the flower’s inner corolla to attract their helper bee. Adapted to hot conditions of Brazil, this flower excels in the hot weather of the Southwest Florida climate too, earning the common name of summer snapdragon.

As an import from Brazil, and with flowers stacked like the fruit in her signature headdress, the angelonia is the Carmen Miranda of flowers. I believe that Shell Point will be as enchanted by this attractive blossom as I was with the original beauty from Brazil so many years ago. Sadly, like Carmen Miranda, the angelonia is a shortlived splendor. The time to see the show is now. As your maître d’hotel, I have reserved a front row table just for you.

You are invited for a command performance at the Copa, Copacabana.