shell point life may 2009

May 2009Vol. 4 Issue 5

2 Shell Point Life | May 2009

Happy May! You might besurprised to seemy face herethismonth.WhenLynnSchneider,our senior editor, offered me theopportunity to step in for this issue,I was thrilled. Especially since it’ssuch a fun one - all about creativ-ity.

You know I once heard that the mostcreative years of a person’s life happen beforethe age of five. And that got me wondering– why?What happens after that fifth year oflife that seems to stunt creative growth?

Is it school? Do we suddenly morph intosponges and simply rely on our teachers toprovide the essential tools we need to suc-ceed? Or perhaps that’s when we begin tounderstand cultural norms and strive to fit inwith the status quo.

Could it be parents? Do parents serve asan authoritative source of knowledge andmuffle a child’s determination to dream? Dothey teach obedience in the form of con-formity?

What about careers? Are careers respon-sible for squelching creativity? Are corporaterules and guidelines to blame for the declinein an adult’s ability to imagine and invent?

And then there’s the question – whathappens after retirement? Based on the trackrecord of life’s ever strengthening shieldagainst creativity, one would have to imag-

ine that by the time we reachretirement, all creative energywill have completely dried up.Right? Wrong!

What I have observed atShell Point suggests the completecontrary. In fact, it appears as

though retirement brings about a rebirth ofcreativity. And as a tribute to the creativitythat abounds at Shell Point, we’ve devotedthis issue of Shell Point Life to exploring andcelebrating your creative endeavors.

In our cover story on page 4, you’ll meetMarilynn Fowler of Turban who has dedi-cated her life to the arts and even created afolk art phenomenon.

A tour of the Tunnel, Shell Point’s “cen-ter for creativity,” begins on page 9 andreveals stories of lifelong artists, as well asthose who have only recently begun toexplore their creative sides.

Lydia Black, the executive director ofthe Lee County Alliance For the Arts, pre-scribes a “daily serving of the arts” as shereviews the link between arts and aging onpage 33.

And you’ll see on page 8 that thismonth’s Academy lineup offers plenty ofopportunities to flex your creative muscles.

I hope you’ll enjoy this issue of ShellPoint Life and that you will be inspired toreclaim your creativity!

ON THE COVER

Turban resident Marilynn Fowler, pictured in front of a background shepainted for a School House Rock production, enjoyed a thriving creativecareer in theater arts as a set and scenic designer and a stage technician.

Reclaim Your CreativityBy Rochelle Cherniawski, assistant editor

Shell Point Life is published monthly for the resi-dents of Shell Point Retirement Community.

Editor Lynn SchneiderAssistant Editor Rochelle Cherniawski

Art Director Rich CerrinaGraphic DesignerWendy Iverson

ContributorsGene McGonigle, Teri Kollath, Linda Rakos,Robyn Church, Rachael Dula, Linda Hicks,

Tom Frackenpohl, Jessica Clark, Mary Franklin,Bev Chandley, Ted Yeatts, Randy Woods,Tim Stephenson, Bev Patten, Sue Taylor,Glenda Stephenson, Paula Watson,

Garth Francis, Peggy Holton, Sue Taylor

Do you have story ideas or photos to share?Contact Rochelle Cherniawski, communica-tions coordinator, by calling 239-454-2055 ore-mail: [email protected] submit suggestions in writing to Rochelle

at the Shell Point Welcome Center.

15101 Shell Point Boulevard • Fort Myers, FL 33908(239) 466-1131 • www.shellpoint.org

Shell Point is a non-profit ministry ofThe Christian and Missionary Alliance Foundation, Inc.

Memorial Day, originally knownas Decoration Day, is observedeach year on the last Monday of May.In 1915 Moina Michael conceived ofthe idea to wear red poppies onMemorial Day in honor of those whodied serving our nation during war.She was the first to wear one and soldpoppies to her friends and co-workerswith the money going to benefit ser-vicemen in need.

We cherish too, the Poppy redThat grows on fields where valor led,It seems to signal to the skiesThat blood of heroes never dies.

-MOINA MICHAEL

Poppy?Whya

Shell Point Life | May 2009 3

Florida congressman ConnieMack recently congratulatedShell Point for receiving certification as aPerson-Centered Care Community. In a let-ter to Shell Point president Peter Dys, Mackrecognized Shell Point’s commitment toexcellence in Southwest Florida.

The Significance ofPerson-Centered Care

Person-centered care is a nationwidecultural shift for residents living in skillednursing facilities. In contrast to a tradition-ally controlled environment, person-cen-tered care focuses on the individual. Thefocus, in essence, moves from an institu-tional setting to a more home-like environ-ment, offering increased freedom of choice— when to get up, when to go tobed, when and what to eat, theappearance and organization of liv-ing spaces, a voice in how the com-mon areas are presented, and choicesabout the general environment.

As a leader in the retirementindustry and a premier provider of sen-ior health care, Shell Point recentlyadded Person-Centered Care accreditationsin Long-Term Dementia Care and Long-

Term Stroke Care to its list ofalready impressive credentials.The totally voluntary processinvolved a rigorous on-sitepeer review that measuredShell Point against 900 stan-dards set by the CARF-CCAC — the nation’saccreditation body for allU.S. continuing careretirement communities.

Shell PointRaises the BarShell Point has the honor of

being the very first retirement communityin the nation to receive all of the accredita-tions at once. This is a testament to Shell

Point’s commitment to excellence.Although the accreditation is pri-marily for the Larsen Pavilion, thestandards of excellence apply tothe community as a whole. SherryBrown, director of long term care,said, “This accreditation also rep-resents the culture of the entirecommunity. Autonomy, diversity,

and individual choice are all part of thequality of life found at Shell Point.”

It is no surprise that Shell Point contin-ues to stay on the cutting-edge by puttingresident quality of life first. The culturalshift to person-centered care strengthensShell Point’s ongoing commitment tohealth care excellence.

Shell Point has the honor of being thevery first retirement community in thenation to receive accreditations in

Long-Term Stroke Care and Long-TermDementia Care at the same time.

Sherry Brown

Florida CongressmanRecognizes Shell Point’s

New Person-Centered CareAccreditations

Florida CongressmanRecognizes Shell Point’s

New Person-Centered CareAccreditations

Congressman ConnieMack sent this letterto Shell Point toacknowledge andcongratulate thecommunity forreceiving thesecertifications.


formostpeopletheater involvessitting inadarkenedaudiencewatching the actors performon stage. Theatergoers attend aplay and find the actors either

remarkably brilliant or somewhat dull. Theyremark on the amazing or not so amazingplot and the characterization. They excit-edly relive or cautiously criticize the action.And more often than not, they forget aboutthe world of theater that takes place behindthe scenes. Spectators are often unaware ofthe technical craft going on before, during,and after a performance. Granted, whenDracula flies out over the audience and flipsupside down with his billowing cape beforeheading off for his next victim; or when Oz’swicked witch points her glowing green faceand broom at spectators while rising into thesky with her black dress filling the wholestage, they tend to admire what the techni-cians were able to accomplish. But typically,the behind-the-scene technicians are unre-markable, and perhaps that’s a good thing.It means that those technicians are doing

their job well, creating a seamless, plausibleatmosphere, appropriate and believable forthe action taking place and for the viewingaudience.

Discovering TalentsOne Shell Point resident knows the

interesting, creative behind-the-scenes of itall. Marilynn Fowler (Turban) was active inperforming arts as a teen. Participating inmusicals, playing piano, and being an activemember of the debate team, Marilynn knewwhat it was like to be on stage in front of anaudience. It wasn’t until later in life thatMarilynn experienced a hands-on discoveryof the world behind the scenes.

In college she pursued interior architec-ture. In preparing for that degree, candidateswere trained in building scale models, pro-ducing watercolor renderings, drafting andproducing blueprints, and giving an overallimpression of a building’s interior.AsMarilynnremembers, “Thosewere the talents inmy toolkit, and those prepared me for becoming anassistant to set and scenic designers.”

InCOLOR

Resident Artist Marilynn FowlerLives a Creatively Colorful Life

B Y S U E T A Y L O R

Full

Marilynn Fowler has dedi-cated her life to the arts —from working in thetheater arts to creating afabric folk art phenome-non — and continues toexpress her creativitythrough paintinghere at Shell Point.

R


While she was inhigh school, Marilynn metDavid Lloyd, a famousAmerican tenor andfounder of the LakeGeorge Opera Festival.Lloyd was passionateabout presenting opera toAmerican audiences, andhe spent time educating

young performers and tech-nicians at the college level.

While in college, Marilynn remained incontact with the Lloyd family. After shegraduated, she took her portfolio and set offfor New York City, seeking the advice andexpertise of Mr. Lloyd. Marilynn was able tointerview and show her portfolio to thedesigner for the Lake George Opera Festival,and she was immediately hired for that sum-mer (the summer of Woodstock in ’69) as adesign assistant. It was during that sum-mer that Marilynn “cut her teeth” onstagecraft.

Working On SetMarilynn quickly learned that the

hectic schedule of a repertory performermeant just as frenetic a schedule for thetechnician. Hired as scenic design assis-tant, Marilynn had the bonus opportunityof working for Clarke Dunham, well-

known New York lighting andstage designer. The LakeGeorge Opera Festival ran arepertory schedule, which meantthat for four consecutive weeks anew show was built and opened. Inthe fifth week, the shows would alternatewith two performances each day. Marilynnremembers, “It could be Don Giovanni inthe afternoon and then The Marriage ofFigaro at night. Each production called for‘putting the set in’ and ‘striking the setdown’ before we would be ‘putting’ and‘striking’ all over again!”

With the helpful advice she acquired fromDavid Lloyd and Clarke Dunham, Marilynnmoved toNewYork that fall. Her portfolio haddevelopedover years, andMarilynnbegan seek-ing work as an illustrator. Landing accountswithW.J. Sloane andBarneysMens Store, sheillustrated during the day, took classes at night,and put her name out as a theater technician.

Spilled PaintMarilynn beganwork-

ing alongside other techni-cians and actors during the

day and socialized with themafter theater hours. Shewas young

and working through her careeroptions and met a slew of other peopledoing the same thing, like Stacey andJim Keach, Judy Collins, Tom Hanks,and F. Murray Abraham. “It was anexciting time as youmade yourself avail-able for whatever the stage and perform-ance needed,” Marilynn explained.“Work as a stage technician gets in yourblood and under your fingernails.” Shewasready for almost anything. When called

about work for Israel Horowitz’s three one-actplays, directed by Jamie Hammerstein,Marilynn was asked, “Can you paint tonight?”Reporting enthusiastically for the work,Marilynn found herself surrounded by a bare

Continued from page 5

Marilynn sits in front of a canvasshe painted when she first got intothe business. The canvas has trav-eled through her family, and nowhangs in her home as a reminderof the history of her craft.

Portrait artist, Larry Lip-sky, captured this photo-graph of Marilynn in the

summer of 1969.

“I’ve so loved thebusinessbecause of thepeople

behind-the-scenes— it’s allsmoke and mirrors,and that’s entertainment.”

6

16’ by 20’ stagewith a five-gallon canof paint, a ladder, a six-inch brush,and a roller. “I guessed I was to paintthewhole stage bymyself, so I just gotstarted,” Marilynn remembered.“Soon I heard a door open, and inwalked, not another painter, but anactor. Whenhe asked, ‘Do youmindif I come up on stage and rehearsemylines?’ I replied from atop the ladder,‘We’ll work around one another.’”

“Working around one another”wasn’t quite what happened.Unfortunately, the actor hit the edgeofMarilynn’s ladder, and her five gal-lons of paint spilled all over him andthe stage floor. An improvisationalskit seemed to take shape asMarilynn and the actor each speedilyaddressed the problem. Marilynnquickly rolled out all the paint, tak-ing care of her mess and getting thejob done. The actor, a youngRichardDreyfuss, stuck his head in the sink,stripped to his “skivvies,” and tookcare of his own mess! We’ll assumehe learned his lines well. Coincidentally, andrather humorous to Marilynn and Richard,the name of the one act plays was Acrobatsand Line!

Marilynn didn’t let a little paint spillstop her or dull her fascination with whatwas behind it all. She would continue to dosummer work in Lake George, buildBroadway shows, and create industrial showsfor IBM, GE, 7 Up, and Avon conventions.As a freelancer, Marilynn developed andtrucked three sets all over the country forUp with People. The multi-media produc-tions for industrial shows simultaneouslydisplayed graphics on a full-stage screenwith fifty projectors behind the screen.Other projects included putting light-catch-ing jewels on backdrops for Disney’s Showon Ice, researching for designers, and con-tinuing her freelance work.

Looking BackAlthough her talents were often subtle

and hidden behind those that took the spot-light, Marilynn had a real love for what shedid behind the scenes. And there were cer-tainly a lot of people who experienced per-formances enhanced by her craft.

Today looking back at all of her accom-plishments, Marilynn still says, “I’ve soloved the business because of the peoplebehind the scenes. It’s all smoke and mir-rors, and that’s entertainment!”

Combining Artwith Business

When someone asked Marilynn to sewa teddy bear for a gift, she took it as a mes-sage from God and went to work with just$50 and a borrowed sewing machine.Remarkably, at her first home show, thecrafty creations brought in $300. Marilynnreinvested the money and tried her hand atmaking sheep. The project was deemed a

success when people began purchasingentire herds. Upon special request Marilynncreated a life-sized dog for one of her cus-tomers. Marilynn played with the leftoverartificial animal fur for months, waiting forit to speak to her. And then it came to her -a rabbit’s tail.

Once again, her creations were aninstant success. She started hiring help andeventually employed 27 women. After hiring

a professional photographer to capturethe life of her rabbits and running anadvertisement in a craft publication,Marilynn’s business boomed. Whilemost of the autobiographical rabbitcharacters were based on individualsMarilynn had met throughout her life,some of the rabbits were custom cre-ations commissioned by her loyal fans.

The rabbit collections were soldaround the country at “mom and popshops” as well as at high-end retailers.She even shipped her rabbits all theway to Germany. However, in 1992Marilynn began to recognize a shift inthe marketplace. So after eight yearsof building her million dollar business,Marilynn decided to thank God forthe rewarding experience and moveon to other art forms. Today shereflects on her business with joy andgratitude as she looks forward to hernext project.


Marilynn, in her home studio, works on a self portrait. In the portrait she is seen painting a canvasstretched across the floor, a technique used to paint large canvases segmented into grids.

A business product sheet shows “Hilda and HenryHarrington” and other popular rabbits from Marilynn

Fowler’s successful Fabric Folk Art line.

The Academyat Shell Point continuesin May with a wide array of life-longlearning classes and speakers.

Computer CollegeThe summer session of the Academy

begins on Friday, May 1, with classes in theComputer College. This semester, in addi-tion to the regular computer classes, enjoythe new School of Technology with CellPhone Prep School and Mental Fitness,using software onNintendoDS Lite stations.Please see the Computer College section oftheAcademy brochure for dates, times, loca-tions, and course descriptions.

Mind, Body, & SpiritBalance Plus! continues with two level-

one sessions, beginning on Monday, May 4.Also on May 4, certified personal trainerLynne Fraser is adding a new conditioningclass, Sports Conditioning, designed forgolfers and tennis players.

In March a healthy brain initiative waslaunched throughout Lee County. This Maywe continue offering classes on the healthybrain initiative with two new five-week-longMemory Training Programs beginning onTuesday, May 12, andWednesday, May 13.

On Friday, May 29, Shell Point salonmanager Robyn Church will lead How toReduce Stress through Aromatherapy.

For the Love of LearningThe Anatomy of a Word begins on

Monday, May 4, offering an opportunity forthose who love the English language tospend time with like-minded folks.

On Tuesday, May 5, Chef Melly returnsto the Academy to help celebrate Cinco deMayo with delicious samples of South of theBorder culinary treats.

Fishermen will be hooked on fly fishingwhen certified casting instructor, DrewChicone, teaches Fly Tying on Tuesday,May 12. On Tuesday, May 19, Drew willteach how to use the new flies during a cast-ing class.

The four-session course on CreatingYour Own Seasonal Wreath will conclude

on Friday, May 15, with tips on transitioningspring decorations for the summer.

On Wednesday, May 27, instructorDennisDial will prove that if you can count tofour, you can play the drums! HandDrumming is a three-session course. And ifyou don’t have a drum of your own, Denniswill have plenty to borrow.

On Thursday, May 28, Professor AdrianKerr will roll out his newest course on theHistory of theUnited States. The coursewillcontinue with two sessions in June.

Music teacher, Pat Specht (Lakewood),will lead Sing Along with Pat eachThursday, beginning on May 28. Have funwhile strengthening your voice and learninghow to keep it strong through correct pitchand breathing.

Academy On The GoAcademy On The Go begins at the Lee

County Recycling Center on Tuesday, May12.The tripwill include informationon “wasteto energy” in our county.

On Thursday, May 28, On the Go hitsthe Barbara B.Mann PerformingArts Center

for the Celtic Woman: Isle of Hope Tour.

Legacy SeminarOn Wednesday, May 13, Timothy

Stephenson, ChFC, executive director ofThe Legacy Foundation, will present a sem-inar on Exploring The Legacy Foundation.You will learn how to put the strength of thefoundation to work for you.

Community EnrichmentOn Friday, May 15, Grace Miller, the

director of volunteer services for CommunityCooperative Ministries, Inc. (CCMI), willpresent up-to-theminute information onHowour community is dealing with the impact ofthe current financial crisis. She will alsoexplain how CCMI serves so many across thegenerations without duplicating services.Please bring a can of food for the Fort MyersSoup Kitchen.

OnThursday,May 28,Warren J.Wright,Fort Myers city councilman; and Ray Judah,chair of the Lee County board of countycommissioners, along with representativesfrom our county, will present information onThe impact of the current financial crisisin our county with specific focus on ourlocal government. This course is open tothe public, so feel free to invite your friendsand family!

Coffee with a NeighborCelebrate National Nurses’ Day on

Wednesday, May 6, by honoring six of ShellPoint’s outstanding nurses. Join SherryBrown, Larsen Pavilion administrator anddirector of Hope Hospice at Shell Point; Dr.Carol Clark, nurse practitioner; Dr. SueStranahan, RN,minister of spiritual care andhealth care chaplain; Margie Pregent, direc-tor of nursing; Stacey Daniels, RN fromTheArbor; and Jolene Salls, RN from the King’sCrown. They will all be together for a veryspecialCoffee with the Shell Point Nurses.

Refer to your Academy brochure for fur-ther details.Also, refer to theweekly reminderand watch theAcademy updates on SPTV toconfirm class information.

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

The Summer Academy Heats UpLearn about Hand Drumming, Cell Phone Use, Fly Tying, and More

Hand Drumming will be taught as athree-session course, with drums avail-able to borrow.Cell Phone Prep School will teach howto make and receive calls, create andupdate address files, and more.


B Y M A R Y F R A N K L I N , R E S O R T S E R V I C E S M A N A G E R


Island LocationKnown as

the “Tunnel”Houses Centerfor Creativity

ArtfulLiving

caption

Island LocationKnown as

the “Tunnel”Houses Centerfor Creativity

TheWebsterDictionary defi-nition of tunnel is a hol-low conduit or recess. But

Shell Point’s definition of tunnel is aplace where creativity, friendship,and art are cultivated on a daily basis.The emergence of the Tunnel as

Shell Point’s creative headquartersdidn’t happen overnight. Manychanges have occurred over the years,and it continues to evolve. One cer-tain constant is the feeling that cre-ativity is an important component oflife at Shell Point.


ArtfulLiving

Art StudioMemories and records reflect that the

original Shell Point Art Group started in1975. The group was informal until 1978,when former resident Rena Feuerbacherrecognized the group’s interest in formingan organized art club. That year a presi-dent was elected to lead the programs andactivities.

In 1990 former resident Glena Bowerhad the vision to start an art class with for-mal instruction. Glena found a localinstructor, Betty Wedeles, to teach thegroup. The class was a big hit, and 19years later, the class is still taught by Betty!Her current class is limited to 12 partici-pants, so she can give individual attentionand help critique art work.

A Place to Call Their OwnIn 1990 the class was held in the

Tunnel, but not where it is located today. Itwas across the hall in the area that is nowused for furniture storage. According toEllie Hance (Arbor), “We started fromscratch.”MaryMacKenzie, (King’s Crown)added, “We were happy to have a place tocall our own.”

The group temporarily moved up to TheIsland Library. However, the space wasshared with other groups sothey continued searching forthe perfect spot. In October1993 The Shell Point Artistswelcomed any residentsinterested in visual arts totheir new studio in theTunnel.

Amazing WorkThere have beenmany amazing pieces of

art, in a variety of different mediums, createdin the art studio. A common artist name inthe studio seems to be Phil Hilton(Rosemont). Phil not only teaches watercolorpainting and calligraphy to Shell Point resi-dents, but also teaches people vacationing oncruise lines.

Each spring, the artists have an opportu-nity to show off their work in the annual Shell

Point Art Show and Sale. TheShow, which has been held for 30years, includes art in all mediums.More than forty presenters exhib-ited their work in the 2009 ArtShow and Sale. Susan Miltner(Parkwood), the 2009 Art Show

Painting by Marge Williamson(Eagles Preserve).

Right: The watercolorclass, led by Phil Hilton

(above), meets eachWednesday at 10:15 a.m.


chairperson, recalled, “The show high-lights the talents of all Shell Point artists,including painters, sculptors, potters,wood artists, stain glass workers, and shelland gem artists. It gives artists an oppor-tunity to display their years of work.”

The Shell Point Artists TodayBarbara Cox (Lakewood) is the cur-

rentArtClub president and is dedicated tocontinuing the success of the group. “Asthe ‘young one’ and the new president, Iadmire and have great respect for thosethat have come before me. It takes a lot ofpeople, and their support, to put togetherall the happenings that go on at the ArtStudio.” Barbara finds that the benefits aretremendous. “Residents gain not only artknowledge but camaraderie and empathy,along with meeting new friends from allover Shell Point.”

The Shell Point Artists are morethan 100 people strong and meet on thethird Friday of each month at 2:15 p.m.in theArt Studio. Meetings feature a res-ident or guest speaker discussing differentaspects of art as well as upcoming grouphappenings.

Left: Painted landscape by Marjorie Dawson of Cameo.

Below L-R: Painting of two ladies by Jane Schwabof Oakmont. Landscape Morning Storm, acrylic, paintedby Philip Gannon of Rosemont. Framing and matting isdone in house for many of the paintings that are createdin the Art Studio. Here, Don Rogowskey of Lucina, cutsthe outside dimension of a mat board for a framing proj-ect that will add the finishing touch to a painting.

“Painting is poetry that is seenrather than felt, and poetry is paint-

ing that is felt rather than seen.”— Leonardo da Vinci

Continued next page Foreground: Ellie Hance (Arbor) works on an oil painting, using two separate photos for reference.Background: Barbara Cox (Lakewood) also attends the Tuesday afternoon art class.


PotteryStudio

The Pottery Studio started at ShellPoint in 1984. Former residents Jane Hicksand Underwood Graham set up shop in thearea that is now the employee cafeteria.The area was perfect because there weresinks for washing up and space for all of thenecessary equipment, such as the kiln andwheel. Jane and Underwood openly sharedtheir knowledge of pottery and taughtclasses to anyone who was interested.

When the Tunnel was remodeled, thePottery Studiomade its one and onlymove tothe location it holds today. Jane andUnderwood were very involved in designingthe new area. However, there came a timewhen there was no leadership in the studio.An instructor from Sanibel offered classes.Unfortunately, due to the charge for her serv-

ices, interest in the Pottery Studio waned.

Along Came JuneJune Lockhart (Harbor Court) broke

the mold in 1999. And throughout the pastten years, she has not only created beautifulpieces of art but has cultivated friendshipsand shared her pottery knowledge withmany residents. “Although we are looselybound, once you come to the shop andwork, you are part of a special fraternity,”explained June. “We care for you and waitfor you to return. It’s not just about pots.”

The pottery studio is equipped with

everything a potter or sculptor could need,including a library collection that aids in thecreation process. All of this has been madepossible over the years by donations fromresidents and support from Shell Point man-agement.

Left: June Lockhart displays her potteryat the 2009 Art Show and Sale.

Above: Mike Klein works on a potwith animal head detail.Left: Arab Village, by Mike Klein,features a mosque surrounded byhouses. The center of the pot holds alight that shines up through the win-dows of the houses. The clay formwon first place at the SouthwestFlorida Craft Guild Show. Below:hippo sculpture by Mike Klein.

Above: Mike Leinhardt holds several potsand bowls he has made recently.

ArtfulLiving

Left: June Lockhart created her firstsculpture at age 14. She was inspired tocreate the sculpture of a seated girlafter seeing a photo of a posed fashionmodel.

The environment has created someinteresting stories along the way. JaneHanks (Junonia) and Dot Eder(Lakewood) have thrived in the studio.Under the direction of Mike Klein(Nautilus) and June, both Jane and Dotlearned to work the pottery wheel. Theynever touched a wheel before they wereeighty and are now comfortable creatingany form they want.

AugustaCrane (Parkwood) andYvonneSchneff are both outstanding pottery artistswho have developed their own potterystyles while working in the studio. Theirwork is now in high demand at Shell Pointart shows and in the resident gift shop.

Over the years the community has cer-tainly benefited from the creativity and crafts-manship that takes place in the PotteryStudio. Communion vessels, baptismalplaques, wedding pots, anniversary platters,and urns for ashes have all been made forloved ones. “Hopefully the works we makeadd pleasure to the homes where they nowlive,” June remarked.

Another interesting service they offer is

making repairs to treasures that have beenchipped or broken. “They are not newagain, but the smile on the faces of thosewho love them is worth the effort,”explained June.

“It is my life and my family…”There is no formal club ormembership to

work in the studio. Anyone who lives at orvisits Shell Point is welcome to take thewheel. The rules are kept to a minimum soeveryone feels welcome and the creativity can

flow. June said that she enjoys her time in thestudio because, “It is my life and my family,and I ammost proud of the job we do to keepit a going concern. I have a great sense of sat-isfaction and pride that at this time inmy lifeI am able to contribute to the community inwhich I live. I could not do it without MikeKlein, Mike Lienhardt (Periwinkle), YvonneSchneff, and Augusta Crane.”

“Although we are loosely bound,once you come to the shop and workyou are part of a special fraternity.”

— June Lockhart


Continued next page

Above: Augusta Crane, a talented pottery artist, stirs a mixture of clay that will work as glue for one ofher creations. Above right: A variety of pots, vases and plates made by residents are fired in the kiln.

Above: Yellow flower plate for sale in theresident Gift Shop by Jane Borkowski(Oakmont).Right: Face sculpture by Sheila Sklar(Eagles Preserve).Far right: Yvonne Schneff (Royal Bonnet)discovered pottery when she moved to ShellPoint three years ago. Her sculpture, titledChiemeka, was inspired by magazine photosof a Maasai tribe.


StainedGlass &LapidaryRoom

The Stained Glass and Lapidary Roomhas seen many changes over the years.However, one thing has remained constant,and that is the presence of resident WesAllison (Junonia).

In 1987 Wes brought all of his ownequipment to Shell Point and found ahome for making stained glass art in asmall area of the originalWoodshop. Thearea today is now the office and libraryroom of the Woodshop.

Weswas contentwith theworkingspace andwas simply happy tohavea place to enjoy his craft. Sometime later, former resident,Victor Kliss, also became inter-ested in stained glass and set upa bench in the storage roomnext toWes’s working area.

Spreading the Joyof Stained Glass

The Wood Shop hadbecome very popular by 1991and needed more space. Wesand Victor were able to move

their supplies to the room that was onceoccupied by the Activities department.

Wes began holding Academy classes inthe mid 1990s, and he was given $100 tobuy supplies, such as pliers and glass cut-ters. His classes were a big hit, and hetaught more than 20 students each semes-ter. The class made a sun catcher in theshape of a fish in 1992, and Wes still seesthem hanging around in different apart-

ments at Shell Point.One ofWes’s favorite mem-

ories is from 1993 whenDennis Bayes, the former vicepresident of finance, askedWes to make him a 2’ by 5’hanging piece for his home.The piece required the needfor water, which was not acces-sible to that area. With hisown money, Dennis paid forthe water to be piped into thestained glass workshop. “He

ArtfulLiving

Frank Lloyd Wright design stained glasswindow created by Jack Dreyer.

Left: Creating stainedglass windows featuringlighthouses comes natu-rally to Wes Allison. Heand his wife, Fran, enjoyvisiting lighthouses andhave photographed morethan 700 of them.Below: A stained glassangel for sale in the resi-dent Gift Shop by RobertFrazee (Periwinkle).

Stained glass wall sconce withbuilt-in candle holder by JackDreyer.


really wanted that piece!” exclaimed Wes.At the same time, lapidary was also tak-

ing place in theWoodshop. Believe it or not,lapidary, the craft of cutting and polishingstones, was located in the current tool storagecloset of theWoodshop. At the time it was asufficient space for the one person who uti-lized it.

Something BeautifulAs theWoodshop continued to grow, it

was time for stained glass and lapidary tofind a new home. Since 2001 several resi-dents have made the area next to the StampRoom a great place to work on their craft.

In 2003 Wes completed his favoritepiece, a Tiffany-inspired cherry-blossomlampshade. He stated, “It was special notonly because it was challenging and had over1,500 pieces in it, but because I made thepiece formy granddaughter and gave it to heron her wedding day.” While Wes flippedthrough his photo album of work he hadcompleted over the years, expressions of joyflashed across his face as he reminisced aboutseveral pieces he had completed.

In 2008 Don Butzin (Harbor Court)moved into Shell Point and quickly beganworking in the stain glass room. “Stainedglass is half of my life; the other half is fish-ing,” joked Don. He has been working withstained glass for morethan 40 years and is cur-rently working on a cov-ering for his recessedlighting in the foyer ofhis new home.

Dr. Bill Moershel(Sundial) has beendoing lapidary worksince he found that hehad extra time on hishands when his kids

grew up and were on their own. Bill said heenjoys lapidary because he is always “creat-ing something beautiful.”When Bill movedto Shell Point from Sanibel, he brought allof his lapidary equipment and donated it to

the community.Even though Bill sells his

pieces in the Gift Shop, herecalled, “I always seem to givemore away than I sell. Oneday I saw a Shell Point resi-dent, and she was wearing apink blouse. I had the perfectstone to match it, and I madeher a teardrop necklace.”

Continued next page

“One can build from ordinary stone ahumble house or the finest chateau.

—Leon N. Cooper

Above left: Earrings made from a slab of a Rhodochrosite stone. Below left and center:Lessie Slater polishes a piece of Rutilated Quartz. She also used the polisher machine topolish a piece of Turquiose. The finished piece will be used as a pendant. Above right: Aslab of jasper stone called Picture Jasper, or wonder stone, was used to create a pendantand matching earrings.

Dr. Bill Moershel (Sundial) enjoys the process ofworking with raw stone and making jewelry. Thependants shown at left are made from HoneyJade, Agate, and Turquoise.


PhotoLabIn 1994 professional photographer Paul

Myatt (Junonia) moved to Shell Point asthe dark room was first opening. Paulreceived a small budget from Shell Pointto outfit the facility. He donated his photoenlarger and other dark room equipmentto complete the room,which was used by residentsto develop black and whitefilm and to make prints.When Ted and Mary

Boynton (Macoma) movedto Shell Point in 2000, theywere delighted to discoverthat Shell Point had a pro-fessional photographic dark-room. Ted, an amateurphotographer and long-timephoto enthusiast, brought allof his photo processingequipment and for a shorttime did photo printing. Tedremembered, “I was just about the only per-son working there!”

After Ted purchased his first digital cam-era, he discovered that he could make excel-lent prints while sitting down at hiscomputer instead of standing for hours in thedarkroom. Plus the digital capabilitiesimproved the quality of his pictures. Thus in2003 Ted had the idea of converting part ofthe darkroom for digital photography. “I feltit was very important to maintain a viable

photo darkroom, because even though noone had used it for several years, one day anew resident would want to do black andwhite photo printing.” His foresight was cor-rect; Bill Benysh (Sand Dollar) enjoys usingthe lab as it was originally intended.

With limited funds and a lot of volun-teer help from the Woodshop, a portion ofthe darkroom was transformed into a digital

photo lab. The counter waslowered to allow space for twocomputers and two scanners.Paul Ford (Cellana) convertedthe counters and cupboards.Wes Allison (Junonia) madeeasels for training manuals anda rack for other equipment.Then popular photo editingprograms, such as PhotoShopElements and PaintShop Pro,were installed on the comput-ers allowing residents to dotheir own color correction andimage manipulation.

Developing MemoriesOver the years the group has

upgraded both scanners and

ArtfulLiving

“Most residents are interestedin converting their color 35mm slides

to digital images on CDs.”

Ted Boynton and Paul Myatt were instrumental in developingthe Shell Point photo lab. Paul helped establish the darkroomwhile Ted helped convert an area for digital photography.

Bill Benysh uses a photo enlarger to cre-ate an enlarged photo from a negative.

Cle Keeley (Periwinkle) uses a scanner toconvert her old travel slides to digital imagesshe can easily share with her family.

computers. “Today we have a superb 35 mmslide and negative scanner, plus a flat bedscanner capable of scanning both slides andphotographs,” said Ted. Most recently adevice has been added to convert VHShome movies to DVDs.

Today the Photo Lab is predominatelyused to convert vintage pictures to CDs. “Iwas surprised to find that what most resi-dents are interested in is converting colorslides to digital images on CDs,” Tedreflected. “Many of us bring slides to ShellPoint and do not know what to do withthem. Now these family memories can beput on a CD and sent to our kids.” ThePhoto Lab is open to all residents. One–on–one training is available on the equipmentand the photo editing software programs.The training follows a step-by-step guide,created by Ted, for walk-in users to reference.

It’s not uncommon for someone toreach retirement and never have pursued ahobby or an artform in their previous yearsof living. In fact, many people will say, “Idon’t have a creative bone in my body.” Butthis is not true. Often new residents will bedrawn to a group or activity that on the sur-face does not appear to be artistic, and yetthrough these groups, creative expressioncan flow out in a number of non-traditionalways. For instance, in addition to the manycreative forms of expression, the Tunnelalso houses a variety of other outlets.

A stroll through the Tunnel revealsaccess to a UPS shipping center, wherea group of volunteers helps other resi-dents assemble, pack, box, and shiptheir gift and personal items as a serv-ice to the community. This may not beperceived as an artform, but it is anendeavor that allows for like mindedindividuals to do something different,meet new people, and provide a mean-ingful service at the same time.

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Literally hundreds of residents utilize theTunnel each day to participate in a variety of

groups, activities, and to enjoy various outletsfor creative expression.

ArtfulLiving

Jim and Marsha Horton currently serve as theleaders for this productive group organizing

and conducting its day-to-day operations.

TheTunnelToday

Creative TechnologyThe Island Computer Lab may look

just like a room full of technical hardware,but residents come in and explore new cre-ative opportunities and endeavors usingtwenty-first century technology. Again, anon-traditional method for finding creativeoutlets. One of the many creative uses theseresidents have discovered in the ComputerLab is making custom greeting cards.Nautilus resident, Nancy Kessler, has taughtmany residents this process.

The Gulf Coast Model Railroad traindisplay in the Train Room is an example of

how a group of engineers,builders, and other “hands-on”thinkers got together toexplore an opportunity forcreativity using their skills.The same can be said for theproductive workers found inthe Woodshop who expresstheir creativity while workingwith their hands and anassortment of tools.

Creative ActivitiesConsider the creative idea behind the

start-up of the Stamp Room ministry nextdoor, and you see yet another unusual exam-ple of creative thinking creating a new and

unique outlet for service and camaraderie.It may be a stretch (pardon the pun)

but the Health Club, which is located atthe entrance to the Tunnel, combinessome creative ways along with the moretraditional opportunities for improvingphysical fitness.

Even the Tarpon Room, located in theTunnel, is a hub of interesting activities,serving as a table tennis area, a practicestage for Shell Point’s Own Theater(SPOT), a gathering place for theRollicking Recorderists to practice, and ameeting place for many other groups.

When reflecting on the evolution ofthe Tunnel — the bonds between creativesouls, and the amazing works that have beenproduced by Shell Point residents — onecan’t help but ponder what the future hasin store for the center of creativity. Onething is for sure, no matter which way youface, there’s always a light at the end of theTunnel.

Phil Steen (Coquina) handles a train on TheGulf Coast Model Railroad in the Train Roomat Shell Point. The 40’ x 40’ model train dis-play, which was built in 1971 by a group ofresidents, is operated and maintained by res-ident volunteers.


Bob Dornburg enjoys working in the Woodshop,which was founded in 1969 by a Shell Point res-ident. Today, the Woodshop is a creative havenfor the men and women who utilize the space tocomplete projects of all shapes and sizes.

Right: The Stamp Ministry was started in1971 by Reverend Robert Searing, a C&MAmissionary in Colombia. When Searing movedback to the States due to his health, volunteersat Shell Point continued the stamp project. Vol-unteers in the Stamp Room trim the stamps,wash them to get the paper off, sort them ac-cording to their design and country of origin,package them, and sell them to stamp dealersraising hundreds of thousands of dollars formissions and ministries in South America.


More than $24,000 was donated by Shell Pointersto the Library’s annual funddrivewhich concludedin mid-March. Librarian Marilyn Hooper and Library StaffCouncil Chair Sallie Soule expressed deep gratitude to themany donors who were so generous in a period of eco-nomic uncertainty. Sallie said, “The enthusiastic responseto the drive confirms that the individuals of our commu-nity value highly the services offered by the library’s facil-ities at the Resident Activity Center, King’s Crown andThe Arbor, as well as at the Genealogy Library in TheWoodlands.”

Seventy volunteers staff the library, donating over10,250 hours annually. This year Shell Point administra-tion installed new carpet at the Resident Activity Centersite, and the administration also coversthe cost of furniture and shelving for alllibrary locations. However, it is theannual library fund drive which makes itpossible for volunteer committees toselect and purchase books, DVDs, musicCDs, and audio books as well as newspa-pers and financial publications. Thus thesuccessful completion of the drive prom-ises another year of good reading, view-ing, and intellectual stimulation.

National Nursing Home Week wasestablished in 1967 by the AmericanHealth Care Association (AHCA) as aweek-long observance, recognizing nursinghomes. It occurs annually,beginning on Mother’sDay each May. The 2009celebration of NationalNursing Home week, withthe theme Nurturing aLove that Lasts, will beheld May 10 through 16.

Nurturing a Love thatLasts encourages peopleto reflect on generations

of parents and grandparents nurturing futuregenerations to carry on life and family tra-ditions. A supportive and caring environ-ment, such as a nursing home, nurtures and

enables residents and families tocontinue growing, learning, andteaching.

Nursing home staff, residents,and volunteers nurture a caringenvironment that values commu-nication, relationships, and part-nership.

Over the past four years, theLarsen Pavilion has chosen to cel-ebrate National Nursing Home

Week with various fun-filled events thatrecognize each department and all of thevarious staff members who work within thebuilding. This is the week that we recognizemedical staff, nurses, CNAs, therapists, res-ident and family services staff, housekeep-ers, maintenance staff, unit secretaries,nutrition services staff, dieticians, activitiesstaff, and all others who work diligentlyevery day to bring the best of care and serv-ices to our residents.

I hope that you join in the celebrationduring the week of May 10 through 16and help us to continue Nurturing a Lovethat Lasts!

Nurturing a Love That LastsCelebrating National Nursing Home WeekB Y S H E R R Y B R O W N , D I R E C T O R O F L O N G T E R M C A R E

Popular DVDs are added to the library inven-tory each month.

Library volunteers team-up to process and enterinto the system all the new books, DVDs and audioCDs before items can be added to circulation.L-R Back row: Channing Jeschke (Rosemont),Jane Williams (Harbor Court), Mark Hoepfner(Oakmont), Dave Ferguson (Rosemont). Frontrow: Mary Sue Thrasher (Tellidora), SusanCleaver (Parkwood), Marilyn Hooper (Lucina),and Barbara McMaster (Cellana).

Library Fund Drive Goal Met!Library Fund Drive Goal Met!


Shell Point residents were “on the go” againwith a recent Academy trip to Bok TowerGardens in LakeWales, FL, located about 50 miles eastof Tampa. The group set out early aboard a charteredbus and traveled through inland Florida, seeing the oldtime Florida many of us forget ever existed. Uponarrival at Bok Tower Gardens, the group enjoyed anorientation program and wonderful lunch before hikingup through the gardens to the tower. Once at the tower,a live, 60-bell carillon concert began and enhanced thesense of serenity most were already experiencing.

Edward Bok, an American editor and PulitzerPrize-winning author, had the tower and sanctuaryconstructed because he wanted to leave the world abetter place. The group from Shell Point would proba-bly all agree that he did just that.

Jan VanLaer (Turban) recalled his childhood mem-ories surrounding the time the tower was constructed.“Back in the early thirties whenI was going to grammar school,we were taught about a numberof people who had immigratedto this country and became suc-cessful American citizens. Therewere – among others that I canremember – Knute Rockne(football coach of Notre Dame);John Ericsson (inventor of thescrew propeller); and EdwardBok, a fellow Dutchman. Muchwas made of the Bok Tower atthe time, I recall, but it took75+ years for me to finally getaround to seeing it. The waitwas worth it.”

Shell Point Residents Visited National Historic LandmarkB Y B E V C H A N D L E Y , R E S O R T S E R V I C E S C O O R D I N A T O R A N D P H O T O G R A P H S B Y J A N V A N L A E R ( T U R B A N )

A D A Y A T

Jan VanLaer waited more than75 years to see the Bok TowerGardens, and said it was wellworth it.

Shell Point residents tour themeandering garden designedby landscape architect Freder-ick Law Olmstead Jr.

The 205-foot Neo Gothic and art deco SingingTower carillon is was designed by architect MiltonB. Medary and ornately crafted by stone sculptor

Lee Lawrie. There are daily concerts from thetower’s 60-bell carillon.


The Café Promenade, located in The Commons of The Woodlands, is acommunity favorite known for their continental breakfast, homemadesoups, fresh salads and sandwiches, ice cream, pastries, cookies, and other dining

delights. And recently The Café Promenade began offering extended hours to bet-ter serve its valued patrons. From 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, The Café

Promenade offers something for everyone – even the sweetest sweet tooth. Stop in early or dropin late to enjoy the friendly service and delicious food at The Café Promenade.

EXTENDED HOURS CONTINUE AT

THE CAFÉ PROMENADE

THE CRYSTAL ROOMINDULGE IN A VERY SPECIAL

BREAKFAST BRUNCH BUFFET

Celebrate Mother’s Day on Sunday,May 10, at the Crystal Dining Roomwith a special brunch. Assorted brunchitems will include seafood bisque, eggsBenedict, omelets, and waffles. Treat momto the juicy prime rib carving station complete with au jus, ororder an entreé item like the chicken marsala, stuffed fillet ofsole, or baked chicken.

A variety of delicioussides will accompany theentrees, such as whippedpotatoes, yellow squashcasserole, spinach soufflé,and pasta primavera withfresh vegetables, herbedolive oil, and farfel pasta.

An extensive saladbar with warm rolls will also be available. And for dessert selectsomething sweet from a wide variety of delicious pastries, cakes,cookies, and pies.

Mother’s Day brunch will be served from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.The price of the buffet is $18.95 per person.

PALM GRILLBEFORE YOUR MEAL TRY THE

SAVORY SHRIMP BISQUE

The PalmGrill celebratesMother’s Day with a spe-cial menu to honor mothers.Dining room manager TomIrwin and Chef Joel will befeaturing Palm Grill PetiteGourmet items, such as

bacon-wrapped sea scallops bruschetta, and escargot in garlic but-ter. The soup will be a fennel, lemon grass, shrimp bisque. Entréechoices include twin tournedos of filet mignon, Florida grouperNewburg, Chilean sea bass and gulf shrimp with risotto, andWoodsong chicken. For a special treat the Palm Grill will alsofeature homemade desserts with Mom in mind! Plan on havingMother’s Day at the Palm Grill in The Woodlands Commons.

The Palm Grill will be serving brunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.on Mother’s Day. Reservations are not accepted, but call-aheadseating is available.

CelebrateMom!

M A Y 1 0 E N J O Y A S P E C I A L M O T H E R ’ S D A Y B R U N C H

OPEN 8 A.M. - 7 P.M.

Bacon-wrapped sea scallops.

Eggs Benedict with fresh fruit.

Mother’s Day


Think about some of the expres-sions you have heard in your life:

“Loose lips sink ships,” is a phrase madepopular during WWII.

“An apple a day keeps the doctoraway,” speaks to the health conscious.

“Little strokes fell great oaks,” a favoriteof landscapers, is a double entendre for allendeavors in life.

I began thinking about these expres-sions, and other common clichés, followinga project completed by the landscape man-agement team. We had been challenged byplanting conditions in The Island park,located along the canal. The Cuban Laureltrees prevent light from penetrating theircanopies, and they consume most of themoisture and nutrients in the soil. Mostplants simply cannot thrive in the shadowof these giants. In such a beautiful park, itseemed a pity that we could not improvethe landscape appearance.

Our plant pest expert, Doug Sharer,came up with a practical and creative solu-tion to solve our dilemma. Upon review ofthe challenge in The Island park, Doug par-layed his knowledge and experience to sug-gest that bromeliads would make a goodchoice to plant under the Cuban Laureltrees. Native to the North and South

Americas, the bromeliad family of plantsconsists of more than 2,400 species andranges in diversity from the Pineapple thatwe enjoy eating to the Spanish Moss thatdecorates our stately Live Oak trees. Thelogic of Doug’s choice was immediatelyapparent. Some species of bromeliads canwithstand low-light conditions. And withtheir own “built-in” water tank and waxyleaves, bromeliads are drought tolerant.Furthermore, bromeliads often have colorfulfoliage or flowers that can brighten a darkarea.

As a fortunate coincidence, Robert andJeanne Fuchs recently moved from theirhome in Palm Acres to their new residencein Oakmont and left an extensive collec-tion of bromeliads for the landscape man-agement department to harvest. The Fuchs’gift to Shell Point was timely, and Doug hasmade good use of this bounty by creating abeautiful garden planting with numerousbromeliad species. With his knowledge ofplants, Doug planted some of the bromeli-ads in the trunks of the Cuban Laurels in acreative design that gives a three-dimen-sional element to the garden. Upon com-pletion of the project, Doug explained,“With all the new bromeliads planted, wewill have an opportunity to harvest the off-

sets and improve other areas at Shell Point.”I invite you to learn a new meaning to

an old expression and visit the bromeliadgarden that Doug has “made in the shade.”The garden is located near the BelaSzathmary memorial seating area in theShell Point Island Park near the canal. Ifyou would like to view even more bromeli-ads, visit the waterfall courtyard at the mid-rise buildings, and also look behindOakmont and Rosemont near the sidewalkadjacent to the lake. And remember, it’snever too late to “turn over a new leaf!”

Made inthe Shade

B Y S T E V E M O R T O N , L A N D S C A P E P L A N N E R

A Cliché in Landscaping

Doug Sharer planted bromeliads in severalareas to maximize color in the shady areas.

Bromeliads Adorn the Rockscapeat the Mid-Rise Garden Park

Bromeliads are colorful, drought-tolerant plantsthat thrive in the shade.


Communication and knowledge arecritical components to the success ofany medication. It is essential that doctors andpharmacists have a complete picture of whatmedications are being taken, because somecombinations can have serious and potentiallytoxic effects.

“Key points to keeping medicationsstraight include using pill organizers, knowingexactly what medications are prescribed,knowing when to take them, and understand-ing what foods to avoid,” explained JoyDarnell, Shell Point pharmacy manager.“Most side effects result because medicationsare not taken as directed.”

Drug InteractionsMost medication interactions are medi-

ated by enzymes foundmainly in the liver. Theenzymes are responsible for breaking downdrugs and helping to eliminate them from thebody. Somemedications, such as Tegretal andDilantin, may increase the enzymes and causea decrease in the amount of another drug inthe body, thus reducing the drug’s effective-ness. Other medications, such as Cipro andTagamet, can decrease the enzymes and causean increase in the amount of another drug inthe body, thus creating over-medication.

Over-the-counter products can also affectthe way medications work in the body. Forexample, decongestants can cause anincreased heart rate. Antacids and other gas-trointestinal medications can decrease theabsorption of medications and should only beused short term.Anti-inflammatory drugs can

affect blood pressure and increase water reten-tion and present possible gastrointestinal sideeffects. Aspirin has both gastrointestinal sideeffects and can cause increased bleeding, so itsuse should be considered only after discussingit with the doctor and pharmacist.

Multivitamins are generallysafe with most medications.However, the verdict is still out onVitamin E, which can causeincreased bleeding. TakingVitamin E should be discussedwiththe doctor or pharmacist to effec-tivelymanage themedication plan.

Another consideration is theuse of herbal products. Echinacea,garlic supplements, ginseng, ginkgobiloba, glucosamine, kava, saw pal-metto, selenium, and St. John’sWart provide many benefits. However, boththe doctor and pharmacist need to knowwhich supplements are being taken to helpprevent negative side effects. For instance, St.John’s Wart should not be used in combina-tion with other anti-depressants; and, ginsengcan increase blood pressure and reduce theefficiency of other medications.

Even certain liquids can create complica-tions with medications. Studies have shownthat grapefruit juice decreases the amount ofmetabolizing enzymes which can lead toincreased levels of certain drugs in the body.Some of these drugs include blood pressuremedications such as Procardia, cholesterollowering agents such as Zocor, and sleep aidssuch asHalcion. Since interaction varies fromperson to person and from drug to drug, it isbest to avoid drinking grapefruit juice withcertain medications.

Administering MedicationProper scheduling of medications is also

important.When certain drugs interact, theymay increase or decrease the absorption lev-els. Some medications act as a sponge, andtheir absorption ratemay decrease within twohours. Other medications, including Bonivaand Fosamax, are particular and require strictscheduling.

Somemedications, such as Ibuprofen andVerapmil, must be taken within 30minutes ofeating. Other medications, like Fosamax andAmbien, must be taking on an empty stom-ach, which means one hour before or twohours after eating.

Patient SafetyManaging medications can be compli-

cated and confusing. It is important toremember that communication is the key tothe success of medications. Utilize the expert-ise of your doctor and pharmacist to help pre-vent medication mishaps. Patients canminimize medication complications by pur-chasing all medications and nutritional sup-plements at one pharmacy.

The Shell Point Pharmacy, with threefull-time and two part-time pharmacists, isavailable to assist all residents with keepingtheir medications straight. The pharmacystrives to keep residents informed about theirmedications using presentations through TheAcademy, and with one-on-one professionalconsultations. Also, at the Shell PointPharmacy, all medications and supplementsare properly screened for potential interac-tions by both a pharmacist and a comprehen-sive computer system.

The Pharmacy is open Monday throughFriday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 454-2234if you have medication questions, or if youwould like to schedule a consultation.

Managing MedicationsMaximizing the Effectiveness ofMedications and Securing Patients’ SafetyB Y P A U L A W A T S O N

The knowledgeable staff at the Shell Point Phar-macy screen all medications and supplements forpotential interactions.

With some medica-tions, it is even neces-sary to monitor theintake of certainliquids.

Broadway and Beyondwith John SadlerTuesday, May 57:00 p.m.Grand Cypress Room/WDLWelcome back bass/baritone John Sadlerfor his fifth performance at Shell Point.This unique vocal program will includeBroadway tunes, familiar opera arias, andnostalgia. There will definitely be some-thing for everyone.

New Activity Group: EuchreThursday, May 72:00 p.m.Game Room/WDLCalling all Euchre players! If you are inter-ested in playing Euchre, join George andJanet Lewia (Oakmont) as they form thisnew activity group. Euchre, pronounced

“you-ker,” is a funcard game that isvery popular in theMidwest.

SPOT Show:Laughter Times FiveThursday, May 77:15 p.m.Church Auditorium/ISCome see 26 of your friends and neighborshaving a grand time presenting five com-edy skits for your pleasure and enjoyment.Two of the skits will be from The CarolBurnett Show…you’ll remember how funnythey were!

Beach DayFriday, May 88:30 a.m. Island pickup8:40 a.m. Woodlands pickup8:50 a.m. Eagles Preserve pickup3:00 p.m. Approximate returnCost: $15.00 (ice cream on your own)“The three great elemental sounds innature are the sound of rain, the sound ofthe wind, and the sound of the ocean” –unknown author. Grabyour beach bag and alawn chair and joinyour fellow resi-dents for themonthly beachday outing. Youwill be glad you did.The trip includes apicnic lunch, transporta-tion, and a stop at Royal Scoop ice creamparlor on the return to Shell Point.

Information Forum:Brain Fitness SupportGroup and Fall AcademySaturday, May 910:00 a.m.Grand Cypress Room/WDLThis important meeting needs your pres-ence. It will be an initiation of the for-mation of a new Brain Fitness SupportGroup. In addition, there will be a “brain-storming” discussion of potentialAcademy classes for the fall term. Helpdetermine what’s next in Brain Fitness forthe Academy, the School of Technology,and the Computer College.

To include a listing for an upcoming event or activity, please contact Mary Franklin, resort servicesmanager, at 454-2152 or email: [email protected]

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Painting by Gail Hamlett (Lakewood)Painting by Gail Hamlett (Lakewood)

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Saturday DVD:The Visitor (2008)Saturday, May 92:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.Grand Cypress Room/WDL

Widowed professorWalter Vale (RichardJenkins, in an Oscar-nominated role) dis-covers an immigrantcouple, Tarek (HaazSleiman) and Zainab(Danai Gurira),squatting in hisManhattan flat andbecomes wrappedup in their lives

when Tarek is thrown into a detentioncenter. A wonderful Hiam Abbass co-starsas Tarek’s mother, who forges an unlikelyconnection with Walter. ThomasMcCarthy won a Best DirectorIndependent Spirit Award for this touch-ing drama.

New Activity Group:Veterans’ ClubMonday, May 1111:00 a.m.Grand Cypress Room/WDLCalling all military veterans! All men andladies who have served theUnited States of Americain any branch and in anycapacity are encouragedto attend the first meet-ing of The Veterans’Club. Jack Hubbard(Lakewood) will beleading the new group. Come to the meet-ing to share ideas for the future of TheShell Point Veterans’ Club.

Summer Documentary:Spellbound (2002)Monday, May 111:00 p.m.Grand Cypress Room/WDLThis extraordinary documentary presentsthe intense, real-lifeexperience of theNational Spelling Beeas seen through theeyes of eight youngspellers. Share intheir private lives asthey train for andcompete in the ulti-mate intellectual

showdown. Within these stories we dis-cover not only their idiosyncrasies, obses-sive study habits, and sometimesheartbreaking sometimes inspiring familydynamics, but also the story of Americaitself.

We “R” Country BandThursday, May 146:15 p.m.Amphitheater/ISWelcome back one of Shell Point’s favoritebands. Harry Hales and his country bandalways have a great time performing any-where people like to have fun. So bringyour friends for some country entertain-ment, performed before the beautiful back-drop of the lagoon at sunset.

Lunch at The Clam BakeFriday, May 1510:30 a.m. Island pickup10:40 a.m. Woodlands pickup10:50 a.m. Eagles Preserve pickup1:30 p.m. Approximate returnCost: $7.00 (lunch on your own)New England style seafood is the claim tofame of this well known Southwest Floridarestaurant. The Clam Bake came highlyrecommended by Shell Point’s programadvisory board. On this trip you will havea chance to find out why it is such afavorite lunch spot. No “clam diggers” nec-essary just sign up today to reserve yourspot. Entrees at The Clam Bake are mod-erately priced.

The Island Cinema —A Special Movie Matinee onSanibelMonday, May 181:45 p.m. Island pickup1:55 p.m. Woodlands pickup2:05 p.m. Eagles Preserve pickup6:00 p.m. Approximate returnCost: $14.00 (snacks on your own)The Island Cinema has undergone a com-plete renovation and is a lovely, comfort-able, and senior friendly place to view acurrent release. The leather seats are softand large with extra arm rest space, andthey are spaced so that everyone has a goodview, regardless of height. There are only67 seats in each of the two theaters, mak-ing the entire theater feel quaint andfriendly. Movie selections will be availablethrough Bev Chandley at the ResidentActivity Center the week prior to theshow. Call 454-2239 for movie selections..

Dessert ReceptionFineMark National Bank & TrustMonday, May 186:15 p.m.The Village ChurchResidents are invited to attend a specialdessert reception to meet the managementteam of FineMark National Bank & Trust.FineMark is the new bank that will belocated at Shell Point and will serve theneeds of the Shell Point community and itsresidents. Come enjoy refreshments, deli-cious desserts, and have the opportunity toask the FineMark bankers questions. SusanChicone and the rest of the FineMark staffwelcome the opportunity to get to knowyou at this “meet and greet” event.

Author Dick MillerTuesday, May 193:30 p.m.Grand Cypress Room/WDLJoin author Dick Miller as he discusses hisnovel The Boxcar Kid. This work of his-torical fiction follows the life of a 13-year-old boy who begins riding the rails duringthe Great Depression and grows tobecome a pilot during WWII. His inter-active presentation will focus on the all-too-true stories of life as a teenager duringthe Great Depression. Mr. Miller willhave copies of his book available for pur-chase and signing.

EVENTS • PROGRAMS • PARTIES • MOVIES • OUTINGS • EXCURSIONS

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PLACES TO GO, PEOPLE TO MEET, & THINGS TO DO

Fun with YourCreative SideWednesday, May 2012:15 p.m. Island pickup12:25 p.m. Woodlands pickup12:35 a.m. Eagles Preserve pickup5:00 p.m. Approximate returnCost: $6.00 (art piece pricenot included in fee)Fused glass art seems to be all the rage thesedays, and there is a studio for it right herein Fort Myers. Customers can simply dropin for an afternoon to learn this nifty newcraft. Individual projects can vary any-where from pendants and ornaments, tobracelets and bowls. It all just depends oneach individual’s preference. The studioalso offers the option to paint pottery.There are so many neat choices for craftprojects at Get Your Paint On. Projectcosts range from $4 to $40 for fused glasspieces. Final products will be delivered toShell Point. Try something new! This out-ing is perfect for beginners. And sign uptoday, because this trip is limited to 20 par-ticipants.

Organ Concert with Karl ColeFriday, May 222:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.Woodlands CommonsWe are pleased to have the talented KarlCole return to Shell Point. His abilitiesand style are first rate. With more thanfifty years of experience, performing ontheatre organs, Mr. Cole is sure to enter-tain as he performs popular and semi-clas-sical tunes. Don’t miss this truly greatentertainer and musician.

Sidewalk Sale Shoppingat Miromar OutletsSaturday, May 23,Memorial Day Weekend9:00 a.m. Island pickup9:10 a.m. Woodlands pickup9:20 a.m. Eagles Preserve pickup3:00 p.m. Approximate returnCost: $6.00 (lunch on your own)Those big holiday weekend “sidewalksales” are sure hard to pass up! Deals andmore deals are just waiting for Shell Pointresidents to find and bring back home.There are more than 140 stores to visit atMiromar, and there are 17 different eater-ies. Stock up for Christmas now while theprices are right. Mall maps will be distrib-uted on the trip. Anyone who would like amap in advance can pick one up from BevChandley at the Resident Activity Centeron the Island.

Memorial Daywith Dick HammMonday, May 2511:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.Crystal Dining Room/ISEnjoy a menu that has something foreveryone and welcome back one of ShellPoint’s favorite performers. Dick Hammwill play patriotic music, old-time favorites,and requests during the Memorial Daylunch at The Crystal Dining Room. Thisis the perfect way to spend a hot MemorialDay afternoon.

Movie Night: The Bridge on theRiver Kwai (1957)Monday, May 25, Part ITuesday, May 26, Part II7:15 p.m.Social Center/ISDirector David Lean’s sweeping epic is setin a Japanese World War II prison campwhere British POWs are forced to con-

struct a railway bridge as a morale-buildingexercise. Yet the real battle of wills isbetween “play by therules” British colonelNicholson (AlecGuinness), who is ded-icated to the project,and his American rival(William Holden),who vows to destroy it.The POWs’ whistlingwork theme becamelegendary and the filmwon seven Oscars.

Library Book TalkTuesday, May 262:15 p.m.Social Center/IS

Mary Ann Saegebarth(Oakmont) will reviewMartha Washington, AnAmerican Life by PatriciaBrady. Refreshments willbe served. All Shell Pointresidents and their friendsare welcome to attend.

The Bay House RestaurantDinner OutingWednesday, May 274:15 p.m. Island pickup4:25 p.m. Woodlands pickup4:35 p.m. Eagles Preserve pickup8:00 p.m. Approximate returnCost: $8.00 (dinner on your own)The Bay House Restaurant is NorthNaples’ best-kept secret. Located directlyon the Cocohatchee River, the restaurantoffers spectacular waterfront dining withunparalleled river views. The Bay Houseprides itself on its intimate, Old Florida-style charm, and true southern hospitality.The cuisine ranges from southern-influ-enced dishes and seafood entrees to neigh-borhood bistro-style fare. All of their dishesare prepared to perfection. Many of TheBay House’s signature meals include localingredients. Recently The Bay House wasrated #1 overall by food critics inSouthwest Florida. Entrée prices typicallyrange $22 to $40.

HAPPENINGS

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

Walkingrequired

Walking up anddown stairs

Boatingattire

Special event buswill be running

Mark Your Calendar

The following activities are planned by a variety of groups. All Shell Point residents are welcome to attend.Check your current Weekly Reminder, or watch SPTV for locations and/or changes.

Sunday9:00 Christian Life Studies (WDL)9:15 Christian Life Studies10:15 Morning Worship1:15 Mixed Golf League6:15 Evening Worship

Monday8:45 Lap Robes (May 4, 18)9:15 Billiards9:15 Pottery9:15 Shuffleboard10:15 Virtual Bowling10:30 Disciple Men’s Bible Study12:00 Mah-Jongg (Sabal Room, WDL)1:15 Table Tennis1:15 Scrabble1:15 Tone Chimes2:00 Beading Club3:15 Virtual Golf4:30 Bourne Jewelers6:45 Duplicate Bridge7:00 Pinochle

Tuesday8:00 Women’s Golf League8:15 Stamp Project

(Stamp Room/Tunnel/IS)9:15 Open Painting Group9:30 Bocce Ball10:15 Through the Bible10:15 Trim & Healthy Support Group

(May 5, 12)1:00 Mixed Progressive Pairs’ Bridge1:30 Stamp Project (Sabal Room/WDL)1:45 The Rollicking Recorderists3:15 Virtual Tennis6:45 Hymn Sing (May 5)

Wednesday7:45 Men’s Bible Study9:00-12:00 Geraci Travel9:15 Model Yacht Club Mtg (May 6)9:15 Watercolor Class9:45 Ladies’ Bible Study10:15 Model Yacht Club(Garden Apt Pond)

11:00 Computer Q&A(May 13, Sabal Room/WDL)

11:15 Computer Q&A(May 27, Osprey Room/IS)

1:00 Chess1:00 Huggie Hearts (Egret Room)2:15 Knitters’ Anonymous (May 20)2:30 Jazz ‘N Stuff3:00 Bible Study (King’s Crown)5:45 Village Church Choir Rehearsal7:15 Prayer & Praise

Thursday8:00 Men’s Golf League9:00 Paddlers’ Club/IS9:30 Current Events10:15 Online Investors (May 21)

1:15Mah-Jongg (LibraryLounge, RAC)1:15 SPOT Play Readers (May 21)2:15 Photo Club (May 14)2:15 Computer Club (May 21)6:45 Pinochle (Mantee Room/IS)7:00 Trailblazers Bible Study

Friday8:00 Intrepid Bike Riders (May 8, 22)8:15 Stamp Project (Stamp Room/

Tunnel/IS)10:00 Genealogy (May 8)10:15 Inquiring Minds1:00 Mixed Progressive Bridge1:15 Quilters1:15 Table Tennis1:30 Vespers (Arbor)2:00 Diabetes Group Appt (May 1)2:15 Art Club (May 15)2:45 Vespers (KC)6:45 Game Night

Saturday8:00 Adopt-a-Road (May 21)9:00 Saturday Coffee9:45 Duplicate Bridge – Supervised Play10:00 Information Forum (May 9)10:15 Model Yacht Club(Garden Apt Pond)

1:00 Chess7:00 Duplicate Bridge

Six Mile Cypress Slough GuidedNature WalkFriday, May 298:15 a.m. Island pickup8:25 a.m. Woodlands pickup8:35 a.m. Eagles Preserve pickup2:30p.m. Approximate returnCost: $9.00 (lunch on your own)Spend some time in nature with yourfriends and fellow residents by joining thisgroup for a guided nature walk through theSix Mile Cypress Slough. This trip willinclude a leisurely one mile boardwalk tourthrough the slough, a visit to the new(2008) Interpretive Center, and a stop forlunch at Uno’s Chicago Grill on the return

trip to Shell Point. Will the wild pigs beout and about? What about the nightherons, pig frogs, turtles, or alligators? Theonly way to find out is to sign up and go onthe adventure!

Mark Your Calendarfor June

Alliance for the Arts CenterExhibit Reception and TourFriday, June 5Join a Shell Point group as they take abehind-the-scenes tour of the newly reor-ganized Alliance for the Arts Center inFort Myers. After their tour residents willbe attend the opening of the 23rd annualall Florida juried 2D and 3D Exhibitionand Reception. Complimentary refresh-ments will be served at the reception.Sign up on June 1 for this event.

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Mother’s Day Specials in May!The Salon wishes all the mothers at Shell Point a very happy

Mother’s Day, filled with relaxation and rejuvenation.Enjoy one or all of these great May specials.

Deep Conditioning Treatment $8 (save $2)Classic Manicure $15 (save $2)

Shampoo/ Cut/ Color/ and Style $69 (save $5)Half-hour Massage $30 (save $5)European Facial $62 (save $8)

We express a lot about ourselvesthrough our outward appearances.Hair cut, color, texture, and style are a bigpart of outward appearances. The choiceswe make about our hair can even give aclue to our personalities.

Whether you think you are a creativeperson or not, you still express somethingabout yourself in how you wear your hair.The right hair style for you is one that isboth comfortable and compatible with yourlifestyle. For example, one person may pre-fer a conservative, balanced style, whileanother will choose a carefree style. A per-son who is very disciplined, punctual, andwell-organized will probably choose theconservative style — neat and symmetricalin appearance with very few drastic changesmade over time. A person who is more of afree spirit or always on the run will probablychoose a style that is “wash and go” or morefree flowing. They may also be more willingto make periodic changes to their style.

Looking Your BestOur hair is not only an expression of

our personality, it impacts how we feel.Looking good and feeling good go hand-in-hand. Have you ever noticed how good youfeel after a hair cut or style? Looking ourbest increases our confidence and emo-tional outlook for the day, improving ourinteractions with others around us becausewe feel our best. While a great style won’tcure arthritis, it may give us just a littlemore bounce in our step with an attitudeready to seize the day.

If you are considering a change or look-ing for a comfortable hair style compatiblewith your lifestyle, schedule a complimen-tary consultation at The Salon or consultwith your stylist during your next appoint-ment. We are here to help and can answerany questions you may have.

Hair – A CreativeExpression of You

Island & Arbor Salon Hours: Mon - Fri: 8 - 4 • Sat: 8 - 12 (Island Only)For appointments call: 489-8400

Men’s Hair Design and BarberingDon Meyers appreciates a qualitymen’s hair cut from The Salon. Don’shair style is traditionally known as anexecutive cut. Don’s style is taperedwith precision, creating a balancedblend of shorter taper into longerlayers through the crown. All the ta-pering and layers are texturized andblended for a seamless transition.Without this finishing step, Don’s cutmay look choppy and uneven.

The style can be finished by ap-

plying minimal styling gel and thencombing into place. The Salon carriesmen’s styling products from Matrixand Redken. These products, includ-ing a men’s hair spray, have a nicemasculine aroma. Just a quick sprayof themen’s hair spray is all you needto control a few renegade hairs.

The Salon offers men’s servicesany day of the week. However,Monday mornings from 8 a.m. tonoon is just for you! New customersreceive 20% off of their first visit.

May’sFeatured Hair StyleB Y R O B Y N C H U R C H , M A N A G E R O F T H E S A L O N

Don Meyers –husband of

Joanne Meyers,home health

manager – sportsan executive cut

known fortapered precision.

Relax and Rejuvenate

Expires May 31


The time has come to sign up for busservice to the 2009/2010 SouthwestFlorida Symphony andCommunity ConcertSeries. The series takes place at the BarbaraB. Mann Performing Arts Hall in FortMyers, and community transportation offersconvenience for Shell Point concert goers.

However, it is important to consider thefollowing venue-specific information priorto signing up for transportation. Walking is

involved from the bus to the building.There are stairs and an elevator for accessto seats located on the upper levels. TheBarbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall doesnot provide wheelchairs.

To sign up for transportation to the con-cert series, call either Resort ServicesService Desks at 454-2282 on The Island or454-2054 at TheWoodlands. Bus passes willbe issued in the fall.

Please note— signing up for trans-portation is separate from purchasing tick-ets to the concert series. To purchase ticketsfor the Symphony Pops Series andSymphony Classical Series, call 418-1500.To purchase tickets for the CommunityConcert Series, call 939-3236.

Getting to Know

The Legacy FoundationLearn About Available Services and ResourcesB Y T I M S T E P H E N S O N ,E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R O F T H E L E G A C Y F O U N D A T I O N

At least once a week, I findmyself in conversation withsomeone who says, “I didn’t realizeThe Legacy Foundation does that!”Many at Shell Point know us as thesource for Academy financial sem-inars, a resource for sound financialadvice, and a helpful listening ear.However, there is much more toyour multi-service foundation righthere at Shell Point.

During the seminar, ExploringThe Legacy Foundation, I will offera new perspective, and suggestsome helpful advice regarding thecurrent financial crisis. We will also explorethe many services offered by The LegacyFoundation, introduce the staff, and show

how The Legacy Foundation has designedits many services to meet the ever- changingneeds of Shell Point residents.

Sign Up Now for TransportationFor Next Season’s Southwest Florida SymphonyandCommunity Concert SeriesB Y D I A N N E M O R T O N , T R A N S P O R T A T I O N A N D S E C U R I T Y M A N A G E R

Legacy staff Deborah Henning, Deena Peters, CarolynDarling, Joan Ball, Timothy Stephenson, and Judy Kessinger(not pictured) are here to assist Shell Point residents.

PRESENTS :

Exploring TheLegacy FoundationUnderstanding Shell Point’sGreat Resident Resource

Wednesday, May 1310:00 a.m.

Grand Cypress Room

Speaker:Timothy A. Stephenson,

Chartered Financial Consultantand Executive Director ofThe Legacy Foundation

Symphony Pops SeriesTransportation Cost: $30

Saturday, December 5, 2009Saturday, December 19, 2009Saturday, January 9, 2010Saturday, February 6, 2010Saturday, March 13, 2010

Symphony Classical SeriesTransportation Cost: $30

Saturday, November 21, 2009Saturday, January 16, 2010Saturday, February 27, 2010Saturday, March 27, 2010Saturday, April 24, 2010

Community Concert SeriesTransportation Cost: $30

Sunday, January 24, 2010Monday, February, 1, 2010Wednesday, February 10, 2010Thursday, March 11, 2010Monday, March 22, 2010


Play, contrary to what your parentsmay have told you, is not a frivolousactivity without intrinsic value. Currentthinking is quite the contrary. Just as play isvital for brain development ininfants and children, so too itseems play is important for adultsof all ages. Research has repeat-edly shown that play, in the formof mental and physical activity, isvital in promoting cognitivewell-being, heightened mood,and improved memory function.

But why would playinggames, reading books, socializing,and having active lifestyles helpus in so many ways? The key liesin stimulating brain connectionsor neuropathways, which in turnhelp to slow and even preventcognitive decline.

The brain is truly miraculousin that it possesses what is tech-nically referred to as plasticity.Plasticity refers to the brain’s abil-ity to heal itself by enlisting othercells to take over for damaged ornon-functioning cells. Evenmoreremarkable is that it is believedthe brain may actually grow newcells to help transmit informa-tion. Therefore, active lifestylesmay in fact promote the creationof new neuro-pathways that helppreserve cognitive function.

In the opposite manner,physical inactivity, or having a“couch potato” lifestyle of staying home-bound and watching television has beencorrelated with cognitive decline. This is nosurprise, as the brain has been found to bemore active during REM sleep than it iswhen watching television.

Dr. Zaldy Tan, a professor at theHarvardMedical School Division of Aging,wrote a wonderful book entitled Age-ProofYour Mind: Detect, Delay, and PreventMemory Loss—Before It’s Too Late. In it hecites a number of leisure activities as partic-ularly effective in helping the brain protectitself against mental decline:• Reading on a regular basis – In an age

when people spend so much time pas-sively watching television, reading pro-vides an opportunity for active mentalengagement. The mental work of making

predictions about a story’s plot and recall-ing details from what was read can furtherenhance the benefits of reading on one’smemory.

• Playing board games – An avenue formuch-needed social interaction, boardgames also encourage critical thinking.

• Playing musical instruments or otherhobbies – The mental disciplinerequired to learn a new hobby or skillhelps ensure that more areas of the brainremain active.

• Dancing – For those who are physicallyable, dancing provides a combination of

physical and mental activity, especiallythe hard work of remembering all thosedance steps!

• Crossword puzzles – Tan notes thatsomeone who completes theNew York Times crosswordpuzzle four days per weekreduces the risk of develop-ing Alzheimer’s disease by 50percent, compared to some-one who does the puzzle onlyonce per week.

Another recognizedresearcher in this area is Dr.George Rebok, a professor ofpsychiatry in the JohnsHopkins Bloomberg Schoolof Public Heath. Rebok stud-ied memory interventionsthat stimulate the brain’smemory-making abilities.An example of a memoryintervention he used is theacronym MOVA, whichstands for

Meaningfulness,Organization,Visualization, andAssociation.The idea behindMOVA,

according to Rebok, is thatinformation is easier toremember when it’s meaning-ful, when it’s logically organ-ized, when one can visualizeit, and when one can associ-

ate it with something that is already familiar.It should be noted that increased

mental activity is no cure-all. For somepeople, cognitive decline and dementiawill occur, regardless of mental activityor lifestyle. But for many people whoadopt a direct approach to mental fit-ness, helping prevent memory loss canwork. Tan and Rebok both emphasizethat with early signs of memory loss, pre-venting more serious cognitive decline isstill possible with lifestyle change, whichis often as simple as taking steps towardincreased social activity and some newhobbies.

Promoting Playful BehaviorMaintaining an Active Lifestyle Can Help Preserve Cognitive Function

Stimulating brain connections orneuropathways helps to slow andeven prevent cognitive decline.


Well known Spanish artist FranciscoGoya created a self-portrait at theage of 80, entitled Aun Aprendo, whichtranslates from old Spanish as “I am stilllearning.” Goya’s introspective exercise atonce inspires and at the same time remindsus of the importance of lifelong learningand how the arts can help enhance theoverall quality of senior living.

A “daily serving of the arts” is part of awell balanced lifestyle, rooted in lifelonglearning. Arts participation provides a ther-apeutic value which research clearly con-firms. Such research, long dedicated to afocus on the beneficial effects of arts educa-tion on youth and adolescent populations,now confirms similar benefits to seniors.Seniors actively engaged in the arts exhibitimproved mental and physical health and ahigher quality of life than those without artsprogramming. Arts education and pro-gramming afford seniors a deep sense ofaccomplishment and enjoyment while theyencourage a healthy aging process. Seniorsreceiving their “daily serving of the arts”typically see improvements in alertness, ver-balization, and socialization skills. They alsoexperience a lessening of anxiety, passivity,and agitation.

Rosemarie Lamm, director of theCreativeAgingCenter atUniversity of SouthFlorida (USF), noted in a recent lecture thatrising levels of depression among seniors canbe attributed to chronic illness and social iso-lation. USF studiesmeasuring seniors’ cogni-tive functions before and after creative artsprograms revealed that patients improvedafter having participated in such programs.

Similarly, researchers studying arts inrelation to memory have documented adecline in the effects of Alzheimer’s diseaseamong seniors enrolled in arts education(particularly painting classes). “Our annualBrushstrokes from the Soul Alzheimer’s artproject highlights the therapeutic value ofcreative arts programs for individuals withmemory impairment,” said Dotty St.Amand, executive director of the Alvin A.Dubin Alzheimer’s Resource Center. “Arttherapy offers a way for individuals toexpress themselves when words are no

longer there.”Arts offerings in Southwest Florida are

as diverse as the region’s flora and fauna.We have access to world-class music, dance,theater, culinary, literary, and visual arts.Opportunities for learning abound. Andsuch offerings certainly complement thestandard menu of sun-soaked tourism inwhich those who visit us on their holidaystypically indulge.

Research geared toward seniors has

spurred the scope and development of artsprogramming for the aging and ensures thatour cultural institutions, schools, and otherorganizations improve best practices, createstronger advocacy tools, and assist inincreasing community appreciation of thearts and arts education. So if you aren’talready, include a “daily serving of the arts”into your daily routine. Dance, draw, drum,sculpt, write, paint, or play and enhanceyour quality of life.

Arts and AgingParticipation in the Arts Enhances Each Stage of LifeB Y L Y D I A A . B L A C K , E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R , L E E C O U N T Y A L L I A N C E O F T H E A R T S

Betty Wedeles, pictured in the white shirt, has taught a painting class at Shell Point for 19 years.Throughout the years, residents have benefitted from this and many other creative forms of expression.

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It has become a tradition each sum-mer for The Village Church Women’sMinistries group to host a Summer Wellnessseries, featuring outstanding health careemployees from Shell Point and the local

community. The programs cover a range oftopics related to physical, emotional, and spir-itual health and usually offer an opportunityfor asking questions. This summer the tradi-tion continues in May, June, and July.

The first program, on Tuesday, May 5,will featureDr.Nancy Spencer from the ShellPoint Behavioral Health Department. Dr.Spencer has worked for many years in theShell Point community and will present aninteresting program about memory loss.

Melissa Schaerf, psychiatric nurse practi-tioner, will speak onTuesday, June 2.Workingin her husband’s local psychiatric practice, she

is well positioned to address important issuessurroundingAlzheimer’s and those who serveas caregivers for Alzheimer’s patients.

Always a popular speaker, Dr. CarolClark, nurse practitioner, will presentresearch and open discussion about depres-sion. Her presentation will take place onTuesday, July 7.

Each session of the Women’s MinistriesSummer Wellness Series begins at 9:45 a.m.in The Village Church auditorium. Theinformative and enriching programs areopen to all women and men in the ShellPoint community.

On Wednesday, May 20, Women’sMinistries of The Village Church willhost Coquina resident, Nancy Pavey, as thefeatured speaker for the Global Outreachprogram.

Nancy Pavey grew up as a childof missionaries in the BelgianCongo. Returning to the UnitedStates, she earned a degree in edu-cation from Wheaton College andmarried husbandDavid fromBristol,England. In 1968 Nancy and Davidjoined International Teams, aninterdenominational ministry, andbegan work alongside two French churches inLyon, France. They were soon hosting weeklyBible studies and opened a coffee house min-istry in town. In the mid-seventies theymoved back to the U.S. to work atInternational Teams headquarters and did sofor 12 years.

As field leaders for teams inEurope,NancyandDavidmoved to Paris in 1989. Eight years

later they transitioned to England, where theyworked for another 11 years. While they havesettled at Shell Point, Nancy and David havenot lost their heart and passion for people inFrance and England. Additionally, both of

their sons live and work in France.Coffee and refreshments will

be served at 10:15 a.m. onWednesday, May 20, in TheVillage Church Hospitality Roomas Nancy shares about God’s workin her life and in the lives of thoseshe has worked with.

We will be collecting smallbathroom and hygiene items such as soaps,shampoos, and toiletries from hotel visits.The donations will be given to the FortMyers Salvation Army ministries for peoplewho come in for shelter, often with just theclothes on their backs. Residents of TheWoodlands who are unable to attend mayleave their donations with Eleanor Perkinsof 9403 Parkwood.

Women’s Ministries GLOBAL OUTREACHA Look at the People of France and England

The Bible has much to sayabout Heaven. Still Heaven

remains shrouded in mystery and in somecases ignorance. It is easy to be confused byall of the Heaven-related stories about after-life issues, near-death testimonials, angelsightings, and the like.

Although no one except our Lord holdsa comprehensive view of Heaven’s glories,many volumes have beenwritten on the sub-

ject, and it is possible to know much aboutthe Christian’s destination.

Throughout the months of May andJune, we will be looking in The Good Bookfor snapshots of Heaven - pictures of comingglory which have been placed there for us toexplore and enjoy. This sermon series willaddress the topic of Heaven and includemes-sages on The Character of Heaven, TheContents of Heaven, Picture Yourself in

Heaven, Paradise of Fools or Faithful, andWho Will Be in Heaven? Music shared inthe services will also express the joy of saintsbound for glory and dwelling in Beulah Land.

You are invited to attend the morningworship services at The Village Church onSunday at 10:15 a.m. throughout May andJune as we celebrate our faith in God andexamine our last and best home – our eter-nal home.

Our Eternal Home A Sermon SeriesB Y K E N N E S S E L R O A D E , S E N I O R M I N I S T E R O F T H E V I L L A G E C H U R C H

Nancy Pavey willspeak on May 20

Global Outreach programs are pre-sented monthly to focus on ministries topeople with spiritual and physical needsboth locally and worldwide. Speakersinclude Shell Point residents who havebeen involved in fascinating ministries invarious parts of the world, current mis-sionaries serving with the C&MA andother mission groups, and representativesof local outreach ministries here in Leecounty.

With changes happening in ournational and local economies, it is easy toview our own lives as if with amicroscope.Global Outreach programs provide anopportunity to look up from the micro-scope to see how God is meeting needs inour local community, and even take a pairof binoculars to view what He is doingaround the world. As we hear what God isdoing around the world, we are remindedthat He also cares for us and desires toguide our lives.

About Global Outreach

SummerWellnessSeries

SummerWellnessSeries

Women’s Ministries PresentsWomen’s Ministries Presents


Create, creation, creative, and cre-ativity are some of languages’ mostrevealing words. They describe a remarkablysingular and universal activity common toall people. Regardless of race, place, time, orgender, human beings have always discov-ered, invented, and brought to light theunknown. Creativity is a primordial drive, acompulsion intrinsic to human nature.

In the BeginningIn the opening chapter of the Bible, the

reader is told only two things: first, God is thecreator; second, humans are made in Hisimage. Since we are told nothing else aboutHimat this point in thenarrative (otherthan thatHe creates), it fol-lows that we aremade in the cre-ative image ofGod. Our benttoward creating, theimago Dei, comes fromGod.He is thewell-spring of humaningenuity.

This means that through common grace,received by virtue of being born into thehuman family, each of us has inherited cre-ative ability and inclination. While not allhave the same kind or level of gifts, everyone– yes everyone – is able to create to somedegree in one’s particular areas of interest.

Creativity EncumberedIt takes effort to create. The heaviness

of the world, a result of the Fall, weighsupon our creativity. To create well is a chal-lenge we all face. Yet great artists, utilizinga creativity which breaks new ground withimagination and with integrity, rise abovethe rest of us and make what genuinelyreaches transcendent heights.

The Imago Dei at Shell PointShell Point residents are fortunate to be

able to develop their individual creativegifts in numerous ways. Performing or com-posing music is always welcome. TheWoodshop and Art Studios are open to all.Gift Shop crafters, photographers, quilters,and flower arrangers consistently come upwith unique creations. Especially notewor-

thy for honing music reading skills are theShell Point Singers, The Village ChurchChoir, and The Celebration Ringers.

In addition, everyone can immerse them-selves in glorious works created by others.Utilizing the creative process of appreciation, awell-writtennovel,musical score, or fine paint-ing has the ability to move the appreciator tolofty levels of aesthetic awareness. Recreatingthe artwork within themind and heart ushersthe individual into another reality.

Creative appreciationmay be cultivatedat concerts, such as those provided by theWheaton College SymphonyOrchestra, theSouthwest Florida Symphony and Chorus,

Chanticleer, and the wonderful programs ofthe Concerts & Conversation Series. Tripsto museums and galleries, films, and theaterproductions are offered from time to time, asare numerous classes in the Shell PointAcademy. Our art and photography shows,as well as the presentations of SPOT, aremuch anticipated events.

God has graced all of us with innate abil-ity and desire to enrich our lives with creativeachievement. Common everyday materialssuch as sound, silence,words, wood, stone, pig-ment, and clay are the raw materials used tobirth great and wondrous art, art which goesbeyond itself and points to the heavenly.

This rich tapestry can be experiencedboth as creative doers of art and as creativeappreciators of art. On both counts, the com-munity in which we live is a place where weare able to fulfill our potential. The key is tofoster the best in our lives, art that is worthyof the King of kings and Lord of lords.Although our making will never be equal tothat of the Creator, our job is to use faithfullywhatever little we have. In so doing, our cre-ative offerings bring glory to God and enrichthe community.

A Pastoral Look atB Y D R . C A L V I N M . J O H A N S S O N ( C A M E O )

Wheaton College Symphony Orchestra performsclassic symphonic praise.

Creativity

God has graced us all with innateability and desire to enrich our lives with

creative achievement.

SPOT performs Every Family Has One.

The Village Church Choir prepares for musicministry.

The 2009 Quilt Show took place in March —and once again offered the entire commu-nity a look at the amazing work of the Shell Pointquilters. The Social Center was filled with hand-made quilts of all sizes, patterns, andcolors. The intricacy and beauty ofthe quilts was complemented by animpressive array of live orchids,provided by the Orchid House vol-unteers.

Nearly 500 people attended theQuilt Show. FourteenShell Point quil-

ters contributed to the Show– alongwith 22 additionalquilts that were “on loan” from other residents. Eachquilt, newor old, had its own special story. Lovely back-

ground music, played by more than 12 resi-dent musicians, provided an ambiancethat led visitors to hail this year’s quiltshow as one of the best ever.

“I thinkwe all believe this year’sshowwas a great success andwe lookforward to another wonderful show

next year,” saidVeraGraham, leader ofthe quilters group.

Wall hanging by Janet Bendall (Coquina).

“Square in a Square” Placemats byJean Arndt (Lucina)

B Y T E D Y E A T T S , P R O G R A M C O O R D I N A T O R

Bed quilt by Jeanne Lekouses (Parkwood)and Marion Sahlmann.

Eagle Soaring quilt by Dawn and Mike Lienhardt (Periwinkle).

A SUCCESSFUL QUILT SHOW

Quilt shown inbackground:“Stormat Sea”BedQuilt byMichelleMcCarthy (Lucina).

L-R: Vera Graham, June Ingraham, Michelle McCarthy, Jo AnnBratt, Dawn Leinhardt , Jean Ardnt, Carolyn Mondora, Sara JaneMaass (back), Erna Hennick, Helen Van Buskirk, Jeanne Lekouses,and Marilyn Fielding.

shell point life may 2009

Documents

issue of shellpoint

atshell point

persons life

theater arts

creative sides

creative endeavors

creative muscles

creative energywill