Harbor Light February 2024 The Embracing CHANGE!
2 - The Harbor Light Change Invites Opportunities for Exciting Experiences I am a creature of habit! I follow in a long line of structured lifestyle people. For as long as I can remember, my father woke up at the same time, put on his work gear, carried his shoes and socks to the same chair, and finished dressing while waiting for the machine to brew his Maxwell House coffee that he poured into the same cup he used at home and at work. I find myself with a similar pattern. I have practices, habits, and rituals that I adhere to, almost without thinking. Only when there are changes do I take note of what is different … and I generally am not a fan! This edition of The Harbor Light is themed around embracing change – something our residents have done throughout their lives. Looking at the biographies of our residents, several of which are included in this edition, we see people who have achieved in industry, the arts, education, and civic leadership. What we don’t read in the biographies is the overwhelming changes that each person has made from where they started to where they are now. There are incredible stories of transformation, the handling of life’s hardships, and the commitment to a life well lived. Summer Rentsch will highlight how we go about changing our habits. Again, this is a simple concept that requires great effort and dedication. What is most compelling to me about habit change is the support of community. In that respect, Plymouth Harbor is a great change agent. This community is full of people who can support, encourage, and lead others towards a desired outcome. Community is so important when faced with FEBRUARY change – both the change we want, and the change we may not want, but is required. Our residents have resources here to help with making change and the support to help us embrace the changes ahead. I hope you enjoy this edition of The Harbor Light. Thanks to all who contribute to making this magazine possible. Jeff Weatherhead President & CEO
The Harbor Light - 3 The Peninsula Revitalization Project continues to take shape in late January, in hopes of a March 2024 completion. Dozens of Harbor Club members visited in mid-January to get a special peak at their potential new home and hear an informative presentation from Liz Sparr, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. Birthday celebrations have become a monthly happening at Plymouth Harbor, held in the Private Dining Room. The delicious cake from our Dining Services team, along with the great conversations, is a winning combination! Random Camera There's always something happening at Plymouth Harbor, and every issue we'll be featuring a page of photos taken by the Random Camera! If you have captured some fun or interesting activity on your smartphones, or "old fashioned" digital cameras, please submit to Ray Porter, Communications Manager, at [email protected] Steve Umbarger and Lyndall Hare visited Plymouth Harbor in January for the start of their "Acting Our Age" film project which will chronicle the lives of several of our residents. The Fund Shop held a special Thank You Party on Jan. 29, which attracted dozens of residents to The Mezzanine. The resident fundraising enterprise had its most successful year ever in 2023!
4 –The Harbor Light Plymouth Harbor Residents Embrace Change Change. The word itself means different things to different people. The meaning can even shift, day to day, week to week. Sometimes it can bring feelings of foreboding and angst. Other times, it can inspire an overwhelming sense of renewal and revitalization – a return of vigor, resolve and renewed purpose. Over the past several months, there has been an ever-present sense of change here at Plymouth Harbor on Sarasota Bay. Residents have witnessed project after project unfold as we tackle the necessary upkeep and transformation of a community that is rapidly nearing our 60th anniversary. From the Tower Lobby cosmetic remake, to the North Garden atrium demolition and reconstruction; from the Peninsula Park and Bird Rookery revitalization, to the move of the Marketing Department to the previous Club Room area; from major window washing projects, to major A/C and water system improvements; from future planning for improvements to the Spa on the Bay facility, to the potential construction of the new Northeast Tower – change is ever-present at Plymouth Harbor. As we enter 2024, another amazing year of change is on the drawing board and project schedules for Plymouth Harbor. Residents can and should expect no slowdown to the almost constant list of changes coming to our community. Each of us can take comfort in the fact that so many changes in our own lives have somehow led us to this time and this place. Our life paths can be quite instructive as we head into an unknown future. They reflect the nature of our community, our nation and indeed our world. "What's past is prologue " is a famous quotation of William Shakespeare from his play The Tempest, and in contemporary use, the phrase reinforces the idea that history sets the context for the present. Here are just a few examples of the paths our residents have taken which have led to their present lives here at Plymouth Harbor. And as we reflect on these stories, let's embrace an understanding that change is ever present in all our lives. Pat and Jim Anderson (2019): Pat and Jim arrived at Plymouth Harbor in 2019 after an interesting and exciting life of world travel and family and career moves. The Andersons were both born in Texas, but their paths didn't cross until after each had married, had three children and then divorced. After their college years, Pat and Jim both ended up in Dallas working at Republic Bank, where Jim was manager of IT systems and Pat was a systems analyst. After a few years, Ross Perot, with whom Jim had worked previously, asked the Andersons to develop and implement a totally new computer system for the merger of two large Swiss banks. The work was challenging and they loved the next eight years in Basel, Luxembourg and London. When the world travelers returned to the U.S., Pat became Vice President and part owner of Vector, SGI, which developed systems for the back office of banks. Jim worked on a project in Oakland, California, for a year and then retired. Five years later, Pat reluctantly also retired, and they moved to Longboat Key where they lived until moving to Plymouth Harbor in April 2019. "At first, I was reluctant to move here," recalls Pat. "But now I absolutely love it! What I truly love is meeting all the fascinating people. I've
The Harbor Light — 5 been volunteering on the Wellness Committee and the IT Committee so I can meet and work with other residents. I also started the monthly birthday celebrations because it gives me even more opportunities to meet new and interesting people." While Pat realizes that not all change is easy or beneficial, overall her outlook and enjoyment of life has been greatly enhanced by the opportunities for expanding her social connections at Plymouth Harbor. "It's the best move we ever made!" said Pat. Pam and Ed Baran (2019): Pam and Ed met in 2009 after a social worker from the school where Pam worked brokered a meeting between the two. Ed wrote down her email address on a cocktail napkin and the rest is history. It was a second marriage for both of them after widowhood, bringing Ed’s three children and seven grandchildren together with Pam’s son and two grandchildren. When they first came to Sarasota, they lived near Sarasota’s charmingly informal Main Street, then moved to a condo behind the Ritz-Carlton. From that vantage point, the view of Plymouth Harbor is clearly impressive and definitely irresistible. Pam, a former sailor, loved living on the water, so when the time came to make a choice, it felt like the decision had already been made. In the several stages of her life, Pam’s emphasis has always been on service to others. She has volunteered in a variety of settings, from a soup kitchen to the Ravinia Festival. She loves writing and teaching children. As a two-time cancer survivor,
6 — The Harbor Light she has also taken life’s “speed bumps” in her stride. "We have been here over three years now, and we've become very involved with the community and made so many new friends," said Ed. "Pam loves to write and is very talented, and through Gretchen Dawson and the Biography Committee, we have met so many interesting and accomplished people. By telling their stories, Pam has expanded her knowledge and social connections. We are so very fortunate to be a part of Plymouth Harbor – it's a fascinating community filled with remarkable people!" Sue and Bob Lifeso (2023): The story of Sue and Bob Lifeso is the very definition of the word "change." The couple has traveled the world and experienced a wide variety of situations, both exhilarating and frightening. After Bob’s medical internship in Toronto, the couple spent the next year working in British Columbia, salting away funds to finance their dream of driving around the world via the Pan Asian Highway. It took one and a half years for the couple to cross Europe, the Middle East, Turkey, Iran, and Afghanistan. While dodging tribal wars, they precariously trekked from Pakistan into Kashmir. The Indo-Pakistani War trapped them in Kathmandu, Nepal, but with peace, the couple resumed travel through Thailand and Malaysia, finally reaching Australia. Bob practiced medicine in Sydney to replenish finances and get them home via the Trans Siberian railway. Once back home, Bob had several job offers in the medical field, but one particularly intriguing opportunity came to him – to travel to Saudi Arabia and work in King Faisal's first modern hospital. He was asked to be the first and only spine surgeon, and took the offer. A two-year commitment eventually stretched to a decade, and Bob wound up becoming the personal surgeon to three kings. The couple's young children attended the Riyadh International School. "Our lives were certainly adventurous when we were younger, and there was obviously danger involved," explained Bob. "But I always tell people I was just sort of blundering along. We weren't fearful of change, and we took opportunities as chance presented them. It's made for a very interesting life!" Bob and Sue still travel frequently (their next trip will take them to the Canadian arctic on an "icebreaker" cruise ship; and then to Portugal). But now they are introducing their children and grandchildren to the world, which adds immensely to the experience. "We're opening up this kind of lifestyle to more generations, and that's so rewarding," Bob noted. What attracted the couple to Plymouth Harbor? "It's definitely the people," said Bob. "We've met so many interesting, accomplished, educated and just wonderful people with so many amazing life stories. I find it fascinating to talk with them and learn from their experiences and adventures." Bob and Sue also enjoy the lifestyle offered at Plymouth Harbor, and take part in the fitness facilities, the delicious dining experiences and the educational programs. "I've met five other orthopedic surgeons since we moved in last year," said Bob. "Plymouth Harbor has been everything we hoped it would be, and more! We still travel and visit places we've never been, and revisit places we enjoyed on past trips. And when we return, and we have a new group of friends and a new place to call home." Bob noted that many people have an intrinsic fear of change, and as a result can become more sedentary and comfortable with a particular daily pattern and lifestyle. But here at Plymouth Harbor, with the wide assortment of people and their colorful backgrounds and experiences, the community itself generates a vibrant, energetic and fun-filled atmosphere – where change is embraced!
The Harbor Light — 7 New Year's Eve Celebration: 2024 Has Arrived! The New Year brought residents, team members and visitors together for another joyous celebration at the Mayflower Restaurant and Cafe. Top left photo, Dan and Susan Juda; then counter-clockwise, Sarah Pappas, Greg Solomon, Montse Landron and Dr. Joe Militello; Eva and Tom Johnson; the Dining Services team; and Marcella Schuyler. Photos by Nancy Guth
8 — The Harbor Light Scholarship Winners and Donors Honored Many of our 2023 Plymouth Harbor Scholarship recipients visited our community on Jan. 16 for a special Donor/Scholar reception event to honor their dedication and scholarly pursuits. The Plymouth Harbor Foundation, led by Beth Watson, Vice President of Philanthropy, is already hard at work evaluating applications for 2024 scholarships. Photos by Nancy Guth Lindsay Storace, Aryan Thach Crook (scholarship recipient) and Alida DeJongh enjoy the special reception for scholarship recipients and donors held on Jan. 16. Residents and scholarship sponsors Jorgen "JJ" Jensen and Esther Jensen are shown with Kyle Meyer, who received a 2023 James Arnsby Scholarship and Foundation Scholarship. He is in his third year at Florida State College of Law. Kyle is the son of Joy Meyer, Administrative Assistant in Concierge Care Management. Lily Elseser (daughter of Mary VanSant, SCC Admissions Coordinator) is shown with her father, John. Lily won the 2023 Charleen Sessions Scholarship and the Esther and Jorgen Jensen Scholarship. She attends the University of Tampa and is seeking her degree in Film Studies. Matt Slattery and Kristina Marie are shown with Kristina's daughter Skylar, who won a 2023 Summer Camp Scholarship. Matt and Kristina are engaged - congratulations!
The Harbor Light — 9 We are thrilled to share with you the remarkable ways in which our Foundation has positively impacted the lives of both residents and employees alike. Our Foundation is dedicated to fostering a sense of community, empowerment, and growth. Through various programs and initiatives, we have witnessed firsthand the transformative effects on the lives of our residents as well as our team members and their children. From educational opportunities to healthcare support, Plymouth Harbor strives to create an environment where individuals can flourish and achieve their full potential. One of our flagship programs, the CNA Training Initiative, has been instrumental in changing the lives of team members and residents. By providing access to quality education, vocational training, and mentorship, we empower individuals to break the cycle of low income expectations and build a brighter future for themselves and their families. Many success stories have emerged from this initiative, showcasing the profound impact of education in transforming lives. Furthermore, our commitment to health and well-being has resulted in initiatives that prioritize the physical and mental wellness of our residents. From wellness workshops to healthcare partnerships, we aim to ensure that every individual under Plymouth Harbor care has the necessary resources to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. Equally important is the impact our foundation has on employees. We recognize that the backbone of any successful organization lies in its dedicated and motivated workforce. Through professional development opportunities, employee recognition programs, and a supportive work culture, we strive to create an environment where our staff can thrive both personally and professionally. Our Foundation's success is a testament to the collaborative efforts of our passionate team, supportive donors, and the resilient spirit of our community. Together, we are creating lasting positive change that ripples through the lives of those we serve. Meet Joy Olaince! Joy came to Plymouth Harbor through the Big Brothers/Big Sisters Youth Mentoring Program last year while a Senior at Booker High School. Within a few short weeks of starting the mentorship program, Joy began working here as a Dining Room Server in SCC. Being around nurses prompted her to inquire about the CNA Training Initiative. She just recently attended all her classes and sat and passed her state CNA exam. Joy will soon transition to working here as a CNA. Joy hopes to continue pursuing her nursing studies and will be seeking a scholarship for her LPN degree. The Spirit ♥♥f Philanthropy The Plymouth Harbor Foundation is an Agent of Change By Beth Watson, Vice President of Philanthropy Thank you to all our generous residents who support the Foundation’s Scholarship Program! If you are considering making a contribution to our educational assistance program, don’t delay as the scholarships will be awarded shortly. Summer Camp Scholarships will be awarded just after April 15 and Academic and Vocational Scholarships will be awarded just after May 31. Just call Beth Watson at Ext. 398 for more information.
10 — The Harbor Light I n our Jewish and Christian traditions, we spend time reflecting, remembering, praying and celebrating. For Christians, we are approaching Lent, a time for personal reflection and repentance. Repentance means “turning around,” changing our way in order to promote peace and unity. The question asked is “What can I do differently that will bring comfort and joy to those around me? This is a personal journey, a time to grow as a person. For our Jewish brothers and sisters, Passover is celebrated to remember their history. They share food, wine and stories to teach about their past so they don’t forget their history. They share the story of how God released them from slavery to freedom and guided and led them. They continue to hope that someday they will make the journey to Jerusalem and celebrate Passover as their ancestors did. These are lessons that all of us can use no matter where we fall on our spiritual journey. When we are open to change and see it as an opportunity rather than something bad, change can actually bring comfort and reassurance that we are alive and hopeful to what tomorrow may bring. As we enter these holy seasons and take part in the observances here at Plymouth Harbor, let us all reflect on the numerous blessings we all share in this unique community. Also, let's reflect on how we all first became a part of the community, and recognize that it was a major change in our lives. When Moses led the Israelites in the Exodus from Egypt in ancient times, this was an incredible journey of change. The perilous trek led to the parting of the Red Sea and the miraculous escape from the pursuing soldiers. The journey also led to Mount Sanai, where God revealed himself to Moses and handed down the Ten Commandments. After 40 days and nights in the mountains, Moses received the divine tablets inscribed by God's own hand and was instructed to provide these laws to the people of Israel. At first, the people resisted this major change in their lives, as they reveled in sin during their leader's absence. But after Moses smashed the tablets in anger, the people relented. Moses created new stone tablets, and these laws were to guide the new nation of Israel until the present day. Change was essential for all of these Biblical occurences to take place, and by embracing change in or own lives, we mirror the philosophy of Christians and Jews throughout the world. Thomas Matthews started as our interim Chaplain at Plymouth Harbor in December 2022. His column for The Harbor Light runs bi-monthly, focusing on all non-denominational faith-based programs and spiritual events at Plymouth Harbor. Please feel free to call him with questions or comments at Ext. 587. Be Open to the Changes in Life's Journey! By Thomas Matthews, Interim Chaplain
The Harbor Light — 11 Why does the doctor keep telling me to change (lower) my salt intake? How? By Kay M. Perrin, PhD, MPH, RN As individuals age, blood pressure tends to rise, making it increasingly crucial to limit salt intake with each passing year. Since many elderly individuals are on medications that can interact with sodium levels, such as diuretics (water pills) and antihypertensive drugs, high sodium intake can diminish the effectiveness of these medications. Reducing the consumption of high-sodium foods can offer numerous benefits, even for those who do not have hypertension. Sodium, more commonly referred to as salt, is a vital mineral naturally produced by the body and present in both foods and food additives. Its role includes regulating the body's water balance, preventing dehydration, maintaining blood pressure, ensuring proper muscle function, and facilitating nerve signal transmission. Excessive sodium in the bloodstream can lead to water retention within blood vessels, potentially causing long-term damage to vessel walls and raising the risk of conditions like hypertension, heart attacks, strokes, impaired kidney function, increased bone loss, heightened susceptibility to certain digestive-tract cancers, vision problems, and other adverse health effects. Considering that Americans typically consume approximately 3,440 milligrams of sodium daily, it is highly likely that your diet contains a substantial amount of salt. To align with recommended guidelines, the American Heart Association and the Institute of Medicine's Food and Nutrition Board advise: • Individuals aged 51 to 70 limit their daily salt intake to no more than 1,300 milligrams. • Individuals over 71 should cap their daily salt intake at 1,200 milligrams. Therefore, the most effective approach to reducing your sodium consumption involves adhering to the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet. This dietary plan prioritizes the inclusion of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, legumes, low-fat dairy products, poultry, and fish. Here's a clear breakdown of sodium content in various foods: How to reduce salt intake: 1. Select fresh foods like fruit and vegetables. 2. Read nutrition labels and choose lowsodium products (less than 120 mg per serving). 3. Limit processed foods, such as canned soups and frozen dinners. 4. Be cautious of high-sodium foods like soy sauce, olives, and pickles. 5. When cooking at home, avoid packaged sauces and instant products. 6. Enhance flavor with herbs and spices instead of salt. 7. Choose fresh meats and seafood over bacon, ham, and lunchmeat. 8. Select fresh, frozen (unsalted), or lowsodium canned vegetables. 9. Rinse canned foods (beans and vegetables) to reduce the salt. 10. Pick low-sodium snacks or veggies like carrots and celery. 11. Use light or reduced-sodium condiments, See KAY M. PERRIN, Page 19
12 — The Harbor Light Live Well With Change By Summer Rentsch, Director of Wellness & Programming “The only things certain in life are death and taxes.” – Ben Franklin Most of us are familiar with this age-old (and slightly depressing) saying. And while it may be true, I’d argue it should include an additional life certainty – change. Change is a constant force in our lives that is ever-present on our journey of personal growth and well-being. Because the unknown is often intimidating, “change” is also frequently viewed with a negative connotation. Why is this true? Humans are creatures of habit, and embracing life changes – big or small – can sometimes seem insurmountably difficult. However, doing so is truly essential for fostering a positive and fulfilling life. In the realm of personal well-being, accepting change becomes a powerful catalyst for transformation. Lifestyle changes often require us to willing step out of our comfort zone and break free from routine. By challenging ourselves to embrace something new, we can unlock hidden potentials and unveil aspects of our well-being that we may not have even known we had! Perhaps your doctor has encouraged you to walk more, but your current schedule doesn’t appear to leave an opportunity to fit this in. Are you willing to alter your daily routine to include this somewhere? How could you accommodate this when you haven’t before? How will this change make you feel? What immediate concerns come to mind about this change? What is something positive that will come by implementing this change? These are all great questions to ask ourselves when faced with the choice of change. Embracing change nurtures a mindset of flexibility versus rigidity, which empowers us to proactively adjust our habits, goals and priorities. When it comes to physical fitness, having change in your routine regularly is imperative. When exercising over time, your body becomes stronger and more balanced. And while this is a great thing, in order to continue improving and even maintaining, it’s important to change up your exercises to work your muscles differently. Even a small change challenges the body in a new way! Mentally, as mentioned before, the thought of
The Harbor Light — 13 change can be overwhelming for many. And while it’s perfectly OK to acknowledge these feelings, we mustn’t live in the fear-zone forever. Remaining proactive by making a realistic plan around implementing or accommodating a change helps to ensure success. Acknowledging your fears about the change also brings it out of the dark thoughts that may be swirling in your head, and into the light of actual reality that can be handled. Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced. Emotionally, everyone reacts to change differently. We may not be able to control what happens in life, but we do have control over how we respond. Remaining calm and levelheaded in the face of change helps provide a sense of confidence in being able to handle whatever is being thrown at you. Seek support from friends and family as well. Venting or sharing your feelings with someone you trust helps unload emotions in a positive and safe environment so that you can move forward feeling a little lighter. While I could go on and on listing all the areas of well-being impacted by change, I know the seasons of life you have already weathered up to this point have allowed you a front-row seat to the fact that change is inevitable. And I’m confident you have weathered it in the past both positively and negatively. Attitude is important. As Socrates said, “The secret of change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new.” Know that your Plymouth Harbor family is here to support you through changes as they come, both personally and to our community. We’re all in this together! Salon on the Bay Special Discounts Plymouth Harbor's own Salon on the Bay is offering discounts through the end of February in recognition of Valentine's Day (Wednesday, Feb. 14)! Just give them a call at Ext. 254, 393 or 164 to schedule your next nail service and receive a 10 percent discount. In addition, all retail salon products are being sold throughout the month at 10 percnt off! And remember - this is a leap year, so you get an extra day of savings! That only happens only every fourth year! Embracing change nurtures a mindset of flexibility versus rigidity, which empowers us to proactively adjust our habits, goals and priorities.
14 –The Harbor Light FICTION Absolution, by Alice McDermott Alex Cross Must Die, by James Patterson (LP) Armour of Light, by Ken Follett* Barbacoa, Bomba & Betrayal, by Raquel Reyes Before Your Memory Fades, by Toshikazu Kawagucho* Blood Lines, by Nelson Demille* Central Park West, by James Comey Countdown, by James Patterson* Day, by Michael Cunningham Dayswork, by Chris Bachelder & Jennifer Habel* Fall, by Tracy Clark Guest, by Emma Cline (LP) Keeper of Hidden Books, by Madeline Martin* Last Devil to Die, by Richard Osman Love Song of WEB DuBois, by Honoree Jeffers* Night Island by Jayne Ann Krentz North Woods, by Daniel Mason Oceans andStars by Mark Helprin* On the Line, by Fern Michaels* Overboard, by Sara Paretsky* Pushcart Prize XLVII, ed. By Bill Henderson* Resurrection Walk, by Michael Connelly The Secret, by Lee & ANdrew Child* Sniffing Out Murder, by Kallie Benjamin This Other Eden, by Paul Harding Unnatural Death, by Patricia Cornwell Whole Body Reset: Your Weight-Loss, by Stephen Perrine NON-FICTION Bill Gates Problem, by Tim Schwab Death in Malta: An Assassination, by Galizia Caruana Flight of the WASP by Michael Gross Gator Country, by Rebecca Renner Immense Word by Ed Young Inside Comedy, by David Steinberg* Kingdom, the Power and the Glory, by Tim Alberta BIOGRAPHY Class: a Memoir of Motherhood, by Stephanie Land How to Say Babylon, by Safiya Sinclair My Name is Barbra, by Barbra Streisand* President Garfield, by C.W. Goodyear LP = large print * = donated book book A friendly reminder from your Library Committee When removing books from the library, please be sure to sign “the check out card” found in the pocket in the back of the book. Then place the card in the wooden box now located on top of the catalog. We have found that a growing number of our books are disappearing … they are no longer on the shelves, and we have no "check out card" in our files. So please cooperate, and help keep our wonderful library in tip-top shape! Please honor the ‘honor system! Investing in Knowledge What's New in the Library? The artwork of Pamela Olin is on display on The Mezzanine through the end of February. Above is Pamela with one of her favorite pieces called “Spiral Reflections," created using resin, PVC and rocks. The art display also includes the work of Plymouth Harbor resident Marie Belcher.
The Harbor Light – 15 Friends and Neighbors D e b r a J a c o b s Buttaggi A p t . T- 1 4 0 7 , E x t . 2 9 7 Debra loves living at Plymouth Harbor for many reasons, but particularly because she has a great view of the cross on top of St. Armands Key Lutheran Church where she and her husband Bill were parishioners. In fact, he designed the lights that adorn the steeple as well as the meditation garden. Debra grew up in Rochester, New York, and earned a BS summa cum laude from Utica College of Syracuse University and her MBA from the University of Rochester. She started her career in the banking world as a trainee at Central Trust in Rochester. During the ensuing 15 years, she worked her way up to be Senior Vice President before moving to Sarasota. She has lived in Sarasota since 1985 in 10 different residences! These moves were caused by the fact that Bill enjoyed buying, building, and renovating homes. While Bill was busy with these projects, Debra immersed herself in the Sarasota community, starting as an Executive Vice President of SunTrust Bank, Gulf Coast, where she worked for 11 years. Then she moved to Ringling College of Art and Design as Vice President of Institutional Advancement, where she fell in love with helping individuals discover the happiness that comes from philanthropy. Next, she became President of the William G. and Marie Selby Foundation. (Interestingly enough, our own Sarah Pappas followed her in this job!) During her 10 years there, she did such a great job she was recruited to become President/ CEO of the newly formed The Patterson Foundation, a position she still holds. A self-described workaholic, Debra built this organization from the ground up – helping to craft the mission, putting together a Board and setting up giving guidelines. This $250 million Foundation was established by Dorothy Patterson. Its mission is to strengthen individuals, organizations, and communities, in ways that foster wide participation around shared aspirations. On the personal side, Debra had 40 years of “marvelous memories married to Bill Buttaggi, who after 4 months of medical anguish joined the heavenly choir in August 2022”. She has two married stepchildren, Alana in Buffalo (with 3 children) and Bill 2 in Raleigh, North Carolina (with one son). Following in their father’s footsteps, they helped her decorate and move into her new home in Plymouth Harbor. Although Debra is still working full time, she is looking forward to making new friends at Plymouth Harbor. By Alexandra Armstrong — Biography Committee
L i n d a a n d Pa t O'Brien A p t . E - 2 1 1 , E x t . 3 4 8 Pat and Linda's life story is a compelling narrative of love, professional accomplishments, community involvement, and the pursuit of new adventures. Pat earned a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree from Northern Illinois University and is a CPA. Linda earned her BS degree in Accounting at Butler University in Indiana. Pat found himself in Indianapolis on an assignment where Linda, an Indianapolis native, was working as a senior accountant. Eventually, Linda moved to Chicago where Pat was located. While on a trip to Paris, Pat proposed and they recently celebrated their 46th wedding anniversary. With the arrival of two children, Linda became a full-time mother while skillfully managing their real estate business from home, including the management of 83 apartment units. Community engagement was a cornerstone of their lives. Pat served as Chair of the Park Board, taught Sunday school, and coached their children's soccer teams. He was named "Citizen of the Year" by their community. Linda was equally passionate about making a positive impact in the community through school-related activities, serving on boards of several community organizations and supporting adults with special needs. She was awarded a Distinguished Service Award for her efforts. Pat's professional journey concluded as the Chief Financial Officer of Utilities, Inc., specializing in investments in small water utilities in Illinois and the Southeast. Approximately 17 years ago, their adventures led them to Sarasota. Enchanted by its vibrant downtown and rich cultural offerings, they purchased a downtown condo. Initially, they divided their time between Chicago and Sarasota but after eight years, they became full-time Sarasota residents. Pat is one of the founders of a citizens' group dedicated to enhancing downtown Sarasota’s quality of life and became a board member at the Bird Key Yacht Club. The couple shares a passion for movies and sports, avidly following college sports and pro football. They love traveling and have a fondness for cruising. The geographical diversity of their children's residences — Chicago and San Diego — provides ample opportunities for U.S. travel. As they settle in Plymouth Harbor, they anticipate making new friends, engaging in diverse activities, and indulging in the culinary delights of the area. 16 – The Harbor Light By Kay Perrin — Biography Committee
The Harbor Light – 17 Although Linda Elsheshai, (say EL-SHUHSHY) moved into the East Garden in 2022, she did not join us permanently until very recently, when she moved to the 16th Colony. A native of Indiana whose father was a professor at Purdue, Linda grew up with an interest in mathematics, which led her to Indiana University where she met her match - a husband who very quickly thereafter became a professor of statistics and quantitative methods. It was said jokingly that they "communicated by formula." That makes Linda sound a little cold, but when you meet her you can see that she is anything but! While her husband Kamal taught at Georgia State, Linda loved being home with their four children, and eventually she and Kamal became foster parents to two other children. Linda says, "Children were our life,"and describes a lake house in the Appalachian foothills where she enjoyed a happy and busy family life, one she still enjoys when she leaves Florida in the summer for North Georgia. Her four children are scattered in four different states, but they and her six grandchildren still return frequently to the house at the lake. As the children grew up, Linda started a business of her own, providing private-duty caregivers for seniors in need of help. She retired after 35 years, and now her daughter is running the business. Linda and her husband came to Sarasota on their vacations. His hobby was painting, and the views from Longboat Key were a special pleasure, which is how Linda came to know of Plymouth Harbor. Linda Elsheshai A p t . T- 1 8 1 2 , E x t . 5 6 1 Now that she has settled here, she looks forward to the possibility of a cousin moving here too. We should all take note that, with all of Linda's deep knowledge of the needs of the aging, it is Plymouth Harbor she chose as her home. Once you meet Linda, you will be glad she did. By Catha Abrahams — Biography Committee Please don't forget - utilizing our Wellzesta digital platform (life.wellzesta.com), you can post your own biography! Just visit your directory listing and add the information to your "About Me" field. We have already added many biographies which have appeared in The Harbor Light over the years. But you have the ability to tell your own story as well – if you choose to do so! Introduce yourself to the Plymouth Harbor community today!
18 – The Harbor Light Tom and Susan embarked on a new chapter in their lives when they relocated to the East Garden, following years of residing on Bird Key. Their journey together spans an impressive 33 years of marriage, preceded by seven years of dating. Tom, a proud patriarch, has a sizeable family of six children, 12 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren. Susan's career evolution is noteworthy. She began as a dental assistant but later found her true calling as an elementary school teacher, specializing in first, second, and third grades. Tom, on the other hand, launched his career with a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering, which eventually led him into the food industry. He furthered his education by obtaining an MBA and ascended the corporate ladder, ultimately retiring as President. Tom's professional journey took them to various locations across the United States, with their longest stint being in Birmingham, Alabama. Beyond their careers, Tom has harbored a lifelong passion for Blackjack and Poker. This enthusiasm has taken them to exotic locales like Monte Carlo and has resulted in numerous memorable weekends spent at Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas. Nowadays, Tom continues to host weekly games with friends. He was once an avid tennis player but had to bid farewell to the sport due to knee issues, now venturing into the world of golf. Susan, on the other hand, revels in her love for the Opera and has lent her melodious voice to church choirs and choral groups throughout her life. Her vocal talents have often led to solo performances, including renditions of the National Anthem at various events. In Sarasota, she is a lead singer for the First Baptist Church on Main Street. Like Tom, Susan has also taken up golf as a shared interest. In the past, their love for travel saw them enjoying cruises to various destinations in Europe and the Mediterranean. However, as their children dispersed across different locations, Tom and Susan decided to stay put in Sarasota, allowing the family to visit them instead. This chapter of their lives is marked by cherished family moments and a strong sense of togetherness. S u s a n a n d To m Pinzino Apt. E-215, Ext. 228 By Kay Perrin — Biography Committee
salad dressings, and seasonings. 12. Be cautious of food terms such as cured, smoked, pickled, or brined. 13. Control portion sizes and share meals when dining out. 14. Choose lower-sodium options at restaurants and request sauces on the side. These tips can help you manage your salt intake and promote better overall health. You can look for nutrient claims on food and beverage packaging to quickly identify those with reduced sodium content. Here's a guide to common claims and their meanings: • Salt/Sodium-Free: Contains less than 5 mg of sodium per serving. • Very Low Sodium: Contains 35 mg of sodium or less per serving. • Low Sodium: Contains 140 mg of sodium or less per serving. • Reduced Sodium: Contains at least 25% less sodium than the regular product. • Light in Sodium or Lightly Salted: Contains at least 50% less sodium than the regular product. • No-Salt-Added or Unsalted: No salt is added during processing, but please note that these products may not be entirely salt/sodium-free unless explicitly stated. In conclusion, sodium is a vital mineral with numerous roles in our bodies, including regulating water balance, blood pressure, muscle function, and nerve signal transmission. However, excessive salt intake can lead to a range of health issues, particularly among elderly individuals who may be more sensitive to its effects. With the average American consuming a high amount of sodium daily, it is crucial to heed the recommendations of organizations like the American Heart Association and the Institute of Medicine's Food and Nutrition Board, which emphasize the importance of limiting salt intake. Adopting the DASH diet and following practical tips for reducing sodium consumption can offer significant health benefits, even for those without hypertension. Furthermore, recognizing nutrient claims on food packaging, as explained in the guide, can be a valuable tool for making healthier food choices. Lastly, the breakdown of sodium content in various foods serves as a practical reference for understanding the sodium levels in common dietary items. By raising awareness of salt intake and making informed choices, individuals can take proactive steps to promote their overall health and wellbeing. References: 10 tricks to reduce salt (sodium) in your diet - Harvard Health JAMA. doi:10.1001/jama.2023.23651: Effect of Dietary Sodium on Blood Pressure A Crossover Trial; Published online November 11, 2023. How Much Sodium Do Seniors Need in Their Diets? (weekand.com) How Much Sodium Should the Elderly Consume? (weekand.com) Sodium in Your Diet | FDA Vitamins and Minerals for Older Adults | National Institute on Aging (nih.gov) The Harbor Light – 19 KAY M. PERRIN From Page 11
Harbor Light Staff Ray Porter Communications Manager Liz Sparr Vice President of Sales and Marketing Beth Watson Vice President of Philanthropy Issue Contributors Jeff Weatherhead Beth Watson Summer Rentsch Chaplain Thomas Matthews Ray Porter Margaret Melun Kay Perrin Molly Schechter Kip O'Neill Pam Baran Gretchen Dawson Alexandra Armstrong Catha Abrahams Nancy Guth Jeff Charlotte Chair, Plymouth Harbor, Inc. Board of Trustees Jeff Weatherhead President & CEO, Plymouth Harbor @PlymouthHarbor facebook.com/PlymouthHarbor life.wellzesta.com/plymouth-harbor/