Harbor Light The International Edition October 2023
2 - The Harbor Light We welcome the world at Plymouth Harbor T here is rarely a day that goes by that I don't find myself speaking with one of our residents or team members about the journey that led them to Plymouth Harbor. The stories I have heard are both eye opening and incredible. Our residents have brought to our small community a wealth of experiences, rich and diverse backgrounds, business acumen, personal and family triumphs, and courageous treks to arrive here. We have been a welcoming community since our founding almost 60 years ago, and that is certainly evident in our diverse population. At last count, there are over 26 countries or cultures represented here at Plymouth Harbor – both among our residents as well as team members. This issue of The Harbor Light is devoted to this amazing reality. We are truly representative of the ideal that is immortalized in our national motto "E pluribus unum" – "Out of many, one." Whether you were born and raised in the USA or you arrived at some point later in your life, we are all now part of the fabric of Plymouth Harbor. We bring our experiences, our gifts, and our interests to this special community where we share ourselves to help others achieve lives we want and can be proud of. I trust that as you read the stories contained in this edition you will be inspired by the lives of our neighbors and coworkers. As someone who grew up in a very small farming town (1,200 people) in the Midwest through the 1970’s and 80’s, I find myself amazed at the journeys so many people have made to find themselves here in this place in this time. Each of us has our origin story and it amazes me that we find ourselves in the same chapter now. I feel blessed to be a part of this diverse and incredible community. Enjoy, and I hope you join me in celebrating the unique qualities of each and every person here at Plymouth Harbor. Jeff Weatherhead President & CEO OCTOBER
The Harbor Light - 3 Big Brothers/Big Sisters visited Plymouth Harbor on Sept. 20 for a tour, and several team members introduced their "Littles". Above is John Schale, Director of Safety Services, with Tristan Tran, a senior at Booker High School. John also mentors another student, Jerry Olaince. Anthony Baffo, Vice President of Team Member Relations, gives a talk about public speaking to the Big Brothers/Big Sisters group gathered at Plymouth Harbor. At left, Chaplain Tom Matthews, Lenora Jost, Linda Odom and Judy Diedrich work the table for the Plymouth Harbor Alzheimer's Walk on Sept. 21. Top, residents gather for the August birthday celebration. Bob Dawson, with Joy McIntyre and Sarah Pappas, presented the very popular and humorous seminar "How to Have a Good Conversation" on Sept. 21. 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]
4 –The Harbor Light E pluribus unum Out of Many, One Plymouth Harbor on Sarasota Bay is named for the original 17th century colony founded in 1620 in the area now called Plymouth, Massachusetts. Our founder, The Reverend Dr. John Whitney MacNeil, envisioned an inclusive, progressive interfaith community based on the shared values of trust, open communications, integrity, honesty, innovation, and the highest quality of life. Our community has prospered for nearly six decades, and continues to aspire to those lofty standards for the last many years. The ideal of inclusion has created a diverse group of residents, as well as a unique team member population hailing from many nations and representing many cultures across the globe. From Canada to Cambodia; India to Norway; from the Ukraine to Denmark; Mexico to the United Kingdom; Belarus to Germany; our vibrant community perfectly embodies the spirit of the United States motto "E pluribus unum"– the Latin phrase meaning "Out of many, one." Our Residents Are From Here, There, Everywhere! The current population of Plymouth Harbor hovers around 380 in our independent living, assisted living and Smith Care Center areas. Of that total, a large percentage arrived here from another country – many from Canada; a large number from European nations; several from Central America; and even one from India (Winnie Downes, who grew up in Burma and India). While we can't possibly relate all of their remarkable stories in this issue, we plan to produce a video with various residents telling about their journeys that led them to Plymouth Harbor. In addition, you can peruse the directory section of Wellzesta and read many complete biographies, some produced by our Resident Biography Committee, and others penned by the residents! In the meantime, here are few brief examples! Aase Eriksen and Frederik Bredahl- Petersen – Denmark: Aase (say Osa) was born in Denmark of a Norwegian family. Frederik was also born in Denmark of an American mother. He is an American citizen as well as a Danish one – both have dual citizenships. Esther and Jorgen "JJ" Jensen – Denmark: Another couple from Denmark, they left their native country by ship to New York City and then took a bus cross country to San Francisco. After 30 years in Atlanta, they retired to Florida and eventually arrived at Plymouth Harbor. Gretchen Dawson – Puerto Rico: Gretchen was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, to Italian and Spanish parents. Her husband Bob says this makes for a fiery combination. She is a graduate of the University of Puerto Rico, Magna Cum Laude, and is fluent in Spanish, French and "gets by" in Italian. Winnie Downes – India: The aforementioned Winnie was born to a missionary pastor, college professor, and foreign correspondent, and grew up in Burma and India. Gregory Hetter and Anita Pihl – Sweden: While Anita was born and raised in Sweden, Gregory spent many formative years there (his father was in the Navy and his family moved frequently). They once spent part of the year at a French villa, and love to travel. Heather and Norris Carroll – Canada: The Carrolls, Norris from the Province of New Brunswick, and Heather from Toronto, are native
The Harbor Light — 5 T he American experience began in 1492 – most of us were taught in school – with a dangeous voyage across the Atlantic of three small vessels led by Christopher Columbus. The Niña, Pinta, and Santa Maria arrived and discovered our continent. Of course, historians have since altered the legendary narrative, and we now understand Columbus sailed from Spain searching for a route to the East Indies. He wound up landing on the island now known as the Dominican Republic, an unknown land mass to Europe. Despite the fact that 11th Century Vikings landing in North America nearly 400 years earlier than him, Columbus was credited as the discoverer of the Americas. But long before even Columbus or the Vikings, the ancesters of the "native" American inhabitants encountered by Columbus and other European explorers crossed to the North American continent over land from Asia. They settled in several places, including the Caribbean island where Columbus landed. He called the first inhabitats he encountered "Indians", thinking he might be in the East Indies, and then captured six of them and designated them as "servants" on that first day (an unfortunate harbinger of things to come). Our community of Plymouth Harbor was named in honor of a 17th century colony founded in the area now called Plymouth, Massachusetts. The brief history: • The famous Mayflower story began in 1606, when a group of reform-minded Puritans in Nottinghamshire, England, founded their own church and separated from the statesanctioned Church of England • On Sept. 6, 1620, 102 passengers – dubbed Pilgrims by William Bradford, a passenger who would become the first governor of Plymouth Colony – crowded on the Mayflower to begin the long, hard journey to a new life in the New World. • On Dec. 18, 1620, the English ship Mayflower arrived and its passengers prepared to begin their new settlement, Plymouth Colony, in the dead of winter. • Over the next 400 years, we have become a nation of many peoples from all over the face of the planet. Despite our differences, we have united under one flag and become a multi-cultural society. This idealized version of "The American Dream" has certainly seen its problems and critics. There is still racism and separatism and bigotry of all kinds. But the fact remains that the United States was formed on the basis of guaranteeing individual freedoms, and preserving rights and justice for all. • And our great experiment lives on – 245 years after our Declaration of Independence was signed. A Brief History of The United States Canadians who met and married in Toronto and became U.S. citizens in 1996. Sue and Bob Lifeso – Canada: Their fairytale relationship began at the University of Toronto, where Sue studied dental hygiene and Bob studied medicine (see their full biography on P. 17). Maija Kaufman – Finland: Maija was born Maija Uotila and grew up in Finland, becoming a Registered Nurse specializing in ophthalmology. She longed to see the world and in 1962 went to Boston to study at the Massachusetts Eye Institute. There she met Dr. Herb Kaufman and the two have been together in marriage and professionally ever since. Dr. Meurig "Mike" Williams – UK (Wales): Meurig was born in the small town of Llandeilo, Wales in a land of "ancient castles." He has lived on three continents and enjoyed a fascinating life. Hild Kjeldbye – Norway: Medical researcher, massage therapist, fashion model, hiker, skier, world traveler. Born in Norway, the youngest of four children, she was trained in cytology at Radium Hospital near Oslo. Gerda Maceikonis – Germany: Gerda arrived in the USA with her family in 1964. She was born in the small town of Niederstotzingen in southern Germany, between Munich and Stuttgart, and has >>Jump to P. 6
6 — The Harbor Light Heather Carroll Norris Carroll Gretchen Dawson often visited during the summer in the 60 years since relocating. She noted that with social media and cellular connectivity, the world has become a smaller place and Germany and the USA aren't as different as they once were. Molly and Fred Moffat – Canada: Fred hails from Ontario, Canada, and Molly is a native of New York City. They met while at their families' neighboring vacation homes, and the attraction was immediate and permanent. Ricky Newkirk – England: While still in high school, Ricky taught seven-to-nine-year-olds Wolf Cub Scouts in her native Cheshire, England. Gloria Schranz – Latvia: Gloria was a 12-year-old Latvian schoolgirl when Russia invaded her country at the start of World War II, later followed by German occupation. Karen Sanson – Denmark: Karen was born in Copenhagen, Denmark. She met Willem, her husbandto-be, at a party in New York City and they were married in 1970. Willem was Dutch, so her family is Danish, Dutch and American! Together, she and Willem began a furniture store in New York City called Wim and Karen's Scandinavian Furniture. Aase Eriksen and Frederik Bredahl-Petersen Jorgen "JJ" and Esther Jensen Maija Kaufman Gloria Schranz Ricky Newkirk Karen Sanson Gerda Maceikonis
The Harbor Light — 7 Aryan Thach-Crook Sergii Susha Natallia Dziatsel Many of our Team Members have arrived at Plymouth Harbor on Sarasota Bay from distant lands and now call the United States their home. Here are just a few examples: Macarena "Macky" Bustos Corvalan – Argentina: Macky, who works in Safety Services, was born in a mountainous region of Argentina in the city of Mendoza. She misses the deep family culture of her native land, which she left to pursue economic opportunities in the USA. She also misses the "delicious food" and "natural beauty" of her homeland. Aryan Thach-Crook - Cambodia: Aryan, who works in Safety Services, was raised by a Cambodian-born father and a Native American mother. His grandmother escaped war-torn Cambodia and fled to Thailand with his father, then an infant. They later settled in the USA, where Aryan was born. He has never visited the land of his father's heritage, but looks forward to making the trip some day. Sergii Susha – Ukraine: Sergii, Maintenance Supervisor, relocated to the United States in 2015 after visiting as a tourist. He is originally from Vinnytsia, a small town where he once loved to fish the local lakes for carp, and harvest fresh mushrooms from the local forests. Natallia Dziatsel – Belarus: Natallia is our Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. She and many in her family left Belarus in 2001 for Germany, then moved to the United States, fleeing a political regime not conducive to future success. She fondly remembers the white-barked birch trees so prevalent in Minsk, and the historic architecture in the capital city. Franco Valencia – Mexico: Franco, Operations Manager in Dining Services, is from Mexico City, a megalopolis of 11 million residents, and came to the USA with his father, an employee of Modelo Brewing. Economic opportunity attracted other family members as well, but Franco misses the "out of this world" food from his native country. He noted that despite the extremely busy roads, he notices far fewer accidents during his visits there than on Florida's highways. Many other Team Members come from other nations (including Liz Sparr, newly promoted Vice President of Sales and Marketing, born in Wales, UK). Some are recent U.S. citizens, including Macky and Patricia Nisbet (shown below), who were recognized in July at the CEO Forum. We will be sharing their stories through videos in the coming months. The great tradition of searching for a new home on a distant shore continues in 2023 at Plymouth Harbor! Macky Corvalan The World Teams Up at Plymouth Harbor! Franco Valencia
8 — The Harbor Light Plymouth Harbor to participate in Walk to End Alzheimer's Once again in 2023, Plymouth Harbor is participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer's, to be held on Saturday, Oct. 28 at Benderson Park in Sarasota, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle (near the UTC Mall off Interstate 75). The event begins at 8 a.m. with a ceremony followed by the 5K walk beginning at 9 a.m. Our team name is "Our Shining Starrs." Where do the funds go? All funds raised through Walk to End Alzheimer's further the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer's Association. The Alzheimer's Association is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization. All donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law. Do I have to register in order to Walk? Yes, we want to know you're walking with us and need every participant to sign a standard waiver through their official registration. There is no registration fee for Walk. However, we ask every participant to make a personal donation and commit to raising funds in the fight against Alzheimer's. Watch for more details on Wellzesta!
The Spirit f Philanthropy The Harbor Light — 9 The Plymouth Harbor Foundation wishes to extend our deepest appreciation to a very generous response to the Team Member Hardship Fund appeal in regards to the most recent Hurricane Idalia evacuation. To date, just under $17,000 has been collected. These funds will be used in a myriad of ways to support our team member’s financial challenges. One resident’s sentiments regarding our staff was included alongside a very generous and anonymous donation. We will pass along these kind words to our staff: “We, as residents, deeply value and respect your daily devotion to our health and safety, and especially your splendid efforts during the hurricane evacuation. The heartwarming reassurance you constantly provide to us is recognized and much appreciated. Our donations to the Team Member Hardship Fund are just a token of our gratitude.” Having available funds specifically restricted to the Plymouth Harbor team has made all the difference in making the Plymouth Harbor family stronger. For more information on making a donation to our Team Member Hardship Fund, please contact Beth Watson at Extension 398. Please join us for the Peninsula Groundbreaking Ceremony on Tuesday, Oct. 10 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the lawn near the bridge. The event starts with Welcome Speeches and then the HardHat Groundbreaking. Refreshments will be outside the back entrance at 11:00 a.m. No RSVP is required. Residents can walk over the bridge if they would like after the ceremony, but be aware that this is now a construction zone. Safe walking shoes are highly suggested, and there is already a considerable amount of disrupted dirt areas. The $1.65 million renovation project started with the required tree removal earlier this year and is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2024. The Peninsula Revitalization Project was funded through generous donations from Plymouth Harbor residents. The Spirit ♥♥f Philanthropy Hurricane Idalia Team Member Hardship Appeal – Thank You! By Beth Watson, Vice President of Philanthropy
10 — The Harbor Light “Open my eyes that I may see, Open my ears that I may hear, open my heart that I may feel...” These words come from a hymn written by Clara Scott in 1895. It is based on Psalm 119 verse 18: “Open my eyes that I may see your miracle wonders...” These words speak to all of us no matter where we are on life’s journey, or our faith journey. The words resonate with us because as human beings, we all want to be seen, heard, and understood. But sometimes, these wants get in the way and overtake us, so we end up not seeing, hearing or understanding our neighbor’s needs. We tend to get bogged down in our own needs and tasks that we loose sight of what is happening around and right in front of us. These words remind us of what it means to be in community with each other. We celebrated the High Holidays with our Jewish brothers and sisters at the end of September. Rosh Hashanah celebrates the birth of the earth, and is a time of reflection and renewal. Yom Kippur is the Day of Atonement, a day spent in prayer and contemplation seeking forgiveness for the sins committed the previous year. It is also a time of reflection and seeking forgiveness from those we have hurt or neglected during the past year and seek to be better next year. This is a wonderful practice for all of us. Plymouth Harbor began with a dream. A dream that Reverend Dr. John Whitney MacNeil had just four years after he arrived in Sarasota. He opened his eyes to the vision and possibility of a new place for retired adults to live and experience the highest quality of life. He heard and made it happen. Plymouth Harbor is a diverse, inclusive (though more can be done), interfaith and open to all nationalities and cultures. This is shown through our residents and our Team Members. What makes Plymouth Harbor special is the people. Our diversity is what makes us strong. We learn from each other, share our experiences, share our joys and sorrows, we learn that there are other ways to do things. This is what being in our community is all about. Recognizing and honoring our differences but striving for the same goal is vital to our success. When we open our eyes, ears and heart, we begin to see that we are not the center and it’s not about “me”. We see the needs of our neighbors, but we also see the beauty, the joy and the abundance that surrounds us. We see the opportunities that we as a community have to offer to Team Members and residents. This is how we show compassion We are enjoying the fruits of a dream that started in 1966. The legacy lives on and will continue to live on. May we continue to open our eyes, open our ears and open our hearts. Our diversity is what makes us strong By Thomas Matthews, Interim Chaplain 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.
Now that our personal worlds are back to normal, or at least not as discombobulated as they have been in these years since COVID 19 broadsided us all, how are we all adjusting? And if we are adjusting, and if it’s a bit different, do we have a word or words for it? Well, we’ve gone through “normalcy”—as in “returning to normal,” and or “facing a new normal,” --etc., etc., etc…” and you’re all probably as tired of those labels that we’ve used (and re-used) as am I. But not sure I have anything to replace them with. Do you? Despite what we call these upcoming times, they certainly are “coming.” So, let’s just move on without a formal label. What harm will that do? If we’ve learned anything as adults, hopefully we’ve all learned that God, Mother Nature, (or however you label our globe’s major overseer), has her own agenda and we mortals have little to say about it. Don’t Forget Important Routines All of us have some ongoing appointments, meetings, and chores that are part of our lives. Certainly personal hygiene habits such as showering, washing our hair, etc., are ingrained and should remain so. Also personal or family ongoing appointments remain cogent. We still need our eyes checked, teeth professionally cleaned, toenail fungus controlled etc.—you get the drift. Unfortunately, it’s easy to let things slide when times are different or routines are “off,” but for most people and most health issues, paying attention and tending to all those good practices we’ve learned through the years makes good sense. For those who have other illnesses or conditions that need routine follow-up (such as cancers that were treated and are cured or dormant) there’s usually a recommended schedule of continuing follow-up exams and/or procedures. Adhering to suggested protocols in future days, months, and/ or years is not always easy but it is prudent. And, fortunately, it’s a lot easier when there’s no new scary medical problem looming in the offing. Talk with your own physician about good timing for routine follow-up visits or procedures. Between the two of you, find a schedule that works for you both and is not difficult to follow. And then, of course, stick with it! Embrace and Practice Good Healthy Routines for 2023-2024 and Beyond I’m sure we can all come up with our own lists of healthy routines that work for us, but listing the old basics can often help. After all, healthy routines have been with us for a long, long time, and have been drilled into most of us by loving parents, bossy siblings (with only the best intent for us, of course), Public Health professionals at schools or work-places, and lots and lots of general health and well-being materials that greet us not only in doctor’s offices, but often at the beauty parlor or in any type of business waiting room or alcove. (I remember a huge high-rise in Hong Kong that housed hundreds of businesses, and the elevator cabs were chuck full of health information (sometimes, alas, I thought more scary than helpful…) but they did, indeed have a trapped audience! A Short List to Start Exercise daily—aim for at least 30 minutes of activity such as walking, swimming, bicycling (either on real paths or on a stationary bike. I recently read that new research has found that stationary cycling can also improve overall gait and postural in older adults. Practice good posture whenever you think about it. It’s not hard to get in the habit of “sucking in the gut” or “tucking in the chin,” and/or practicing some “heel to toe walking” while window-shopping at the mall, or even when you’re simply striding from the sofa to the frig to grab a soda at home. I remember a time when that kind of movement was actually labeled as “incidental exercise.” And why not? Using those frequent, commonplace moments to improve our balance and stay active can be kind of fun as well as physically beneficial. Even as, or perhaps I should say especially as we get older, such “incidental-exercise” can be a simple, but surprisingly effective way to help us maintain dexterity and stay fit. And, a final reminder — Mental Health is very important too. Not much point in being physically fit if one is also constantly depressed or cross! So take the time to “smell the roses” and enjoy family and friendships. Cheers! The Harbor Light — 11 Don't Forget Healthy Basics! By Elyse M. Rogers, R.N., B.S., M.A.
12 — The Harbor Light Who doesn’t love the incredible view when looking out over our glistening pool on a bright sunny day? Lucky for us, this amenity serves a greater purpose than simply a sparkling feature on our grounds. Let’s dive into the world that’s making waves in the senior community: aqua exercise. Whether you’re looking to stay fit, relieve joint pain, reduce your fall-risk, or simply have a blast, getting wet can be the best bet. Let’s explore the benefits! 1. Gentle on Joints: Let’s face it; as we age, our joints start talking back. But in the water, buoyancy works its magic to quiet that voice. Aqua exercise reduces the impact on your joints making it an idea choice for seniors dealing with arthritis, joint pain, multiple sclerosis, osteoporosis and Parkinson’s. The fluidity of resistance as you move through the water strengthens your muscles without the harsh impact. 2. Boosted Cardiovascular Health: Not all aqua workouts are slow-paced; you can get your heart pumping in the pool! Water resistance adds an extra challenge by engaging all muscles in movement and control, which prompts your heart to work harder. Especially for those that are no longer able to walk on a treadmill, use an elliptical or go for a jog, the water allows you to Dive Into Better Health – Enjoy Aqua Exercise By Summer Rentsch, Director of Wellness & Programming Aqua exercise in the outdoor pool is a great way to enjoy our unique environment here at Plymouth Harbor while also maintaining a healthy fitness regiment that is easy on the joints and limbs.
The Harbor Light — 13 improve your cardiovascular fitness without the strain of high-impact activities. 3. Improved Balance and Flexibility: As we age, balance and flexibility tend to decrease leaving us less stable on our feet and more prone to easy injury. The water’s natural resistance encourages balance and flexibility training, providing a “no fall zone” allowing you to be even more agile with your movements. 4. Social Connection: Exercising in a group setting by the pool is not just about fitness, it’s also about forging friendships! Residents often find a sense of community in our aqua classes, and in the past have even adopted a fun-loving group nickname called the “Aqua-nuts.” Time spent together with friends and meeting new neighbors creates bonds that contribute to mental and emotional well-being. 5. Mental Health Oasis: The soothing qualities of water can do wonders for your mental health. Most who live here agree already that there is something to be said for a daily dose of “salttherapy” while we live life better on the bay. The serene environment of the warm water wrapping you in a hug can help reduce stress and anxiety, leaving you feeling refreshed and revitalized after a swim session. 6. Weight Management: Aqua exercise is an excellent way to manage weight. The resistance of the water challenges your muscles helping you build lean muscle mass while burning calories. Swimming is one of the biggest calorie-burning exercises out there and is a win-win for weight loss and management. 7. Pain Relief: Hydrostatic pressure from the water can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Our indoor therapy pool is kept at a warm 92 degrees and both this pool and our indoor hot tub offer spa-jets to massage and soothe aching areas such as the back and feet. Even 5-10 minutes of a jet soak can provide lasting benefits for pain management. Here at Plymouth Harbor, we proudly offer four different types of aqua classes for residents to choose from, with a total of 12 classes conducted in the water each week: Aqua Fit – held on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8:30 a.m. in the outdoor pool. This class offers a variety of endurance exercises and strength training movements, all while challenging your mind-body dialog as you work on improving range of motion, flexibility, core power, and stamina. Part of this class will be taught in deep water so that residents can enjoy a reduction in joint stress as you wear a flotation belt and improve your endurance. Aqua Joint & Muscle Fitness – held on Mondays and Wednesdays at 11:30 a.m. in the indoor therapy pool. In the safety and warmth of the indoor therapy pool, this class improves balance, muscle and joint awareness. Specific exercises developed by the Arthritis Foundation focus on your joints from your head to your toes. Light and fun vocalizing with music is sure to being your day with a smile! Aqua Stretch & Strengthen – held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m. in the outdoor pool. Developed through the Arthritis Foundation, this class features gentle strength and conditioning for both upper and lower body in effort to expand the body’s range of motion and flexibility. Walk This Way – held on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. in the outdoor pool. This is an aqua class for everyone concerned with balance and the fear of falling. This class focuses on body movement through walks for balance which improves mind-body dialogue. Fun and simple aquatic routines are taught to increase memory skills and coordination. Not a swimmer? No problem! No swimming skills required or necessary to try these classes. Our instructors will work with each individual and meet you where you are at. We hope you will explore the experience of aqua exercise here in your community!
14 –The Harbor Light While our library doesn't have any new books to report this month, there are many important resources for our residents now available on Life.WellZesta.com, including the 2023 Book Review Schedule (beginning Oct. 13 with Marcella Schuyler reviewing "Daughters of Yalta" by Catherine Grace Katz," at 2 p.m. in The Bistro. Numerous other written resources, including many Resident Association documents, are also available. This is a prime spot to learn so much about Plymouth Harbor. So visit the new digital information portal, and under Resources, then Documents, and then 2023 Book Review Schedule, you'll find the fall and winter book reviews! Valuable Reading Available on Wellzesta Life The artwork of resident Rick Cannon (above) is now on display in The Mezzanine, along with artwork from resident Jorgen "JJ" Jensen. The many drawings of Rick capture our vibrant community in a unique and personal way. Rick’s major work over the years was designing and building scenery. In Sarasota he worked for various theaters including the Golden Apple, Theatre Works, Urbanite and Ringling Circus. However, his major focus was the Asolo Conservatory.
The Harbor Light – 15 Friends and Neighbors Richard Reibman A p t . T- 4 0 3 , E x t . 4 1 4 A powerful argument can be made that what is most compelling and differentiating about Plymouth Harbor is our population. Our community is a magnet for the best and the brightest from a truly splendid variety of backgrounds, geography and experience. That’s what struck me as I was interviewing the subject of today’s new resident biography, Richard Reibman. (Pronounce it with a long “e,” please.) Born in Chicago, Richard became a Floridian at a young age. He lived in St. Petersburg then Coral Gables, graduating from high school there as a National Merit Scholar in 1958. A National Honor Society student in economics at Tulane, he earned his BA in 1962. Three years in the Army as an aviation supply officer in Heidelberg, Germany followed. Then it was on to the Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville and an MBA in Finance. That degree was the foundation of his successful career in financial services, where he was an investment banker at Goldman Sachs, Merrill Lynch and Dean Witter Reynolds (now part of Morgan Stanley). These positions, mostly in Manhattan, included three years in Tokyo and three in Atlanta. Richard’s next assignments would have taken him out of NYC but his late wife loved it too much to leave so he retired for the first time in 1992. To fill his suddenly abundant free time, he took up … running marathons and the New York Road Runners’ Club. He eventually returned to finance but on the consumer side, quickly attracting a large base of loyal clients who valued his unique experience. He retired a second time in 2002. In 2003, Richard moved to Bird Key and plunged right into becoming a Board Member and later President of the Bird Key Homeowner’s Association. He became an Elder and Treasurer of the First Presbyterian Church and held the latter position in the Sarasota Concert Association. He worked with United Way of the Suncoast as a VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) volunteer and with Habitat for Humanity on Rebuilding Hope in New Orleans. Richard is also a sailor who knows the waters from Maine to Trinidad, a shooter who goes weekly to Sarasota Trap, Skeet and Sporting Clays, and a hiker. He has hiked up Mt. Fuji and walked both the Spanish and Portuguese Caminos de Santiago, the 10th Century Pilgrim Trails featured in the film “The Way”. There are good stories that go with these adventures and more, including one about the recent discovery of a brother that he never knew about. To hear some, just meet the multi-hyphen Wall Streeter-churchman-volunteer-runner-sailorhiker-traveller-shooter and Yen bond expert: your new neighbor in T-403. By Molly Schechter — Biography Committee
16 – The Harbor Light WELCOME, NEW FRIENDS! K a t hy a n d M i ke Plunkett A p t . T- 1 1 0 8 , E x t . 3 3 3 Kathy and Mike Plunkett have both led busy and interesting lives, first separately, then, after they met in 2009 at “another” CCRC, where Kathy worked. Kathy, who grew up in the Detroit suburbs, moved with her late husband, daughter and son to Fort Myers in 1985 to leave winters behind. When her two children left for college, she moved…and moved. From Denver to Austin, to Las Vegas and back to Sarasota in 1999. She became a certified Fitness Trainer and, obtained her Aesthetics License in skin care. Although Kathy’s main interests are wellness and fitness, she finds time to read mysteries, travel, golf, stage homes and volunteer in various charities. Mike was born in Moline, Illinois. After getting degrees at Augustana College and Stanford he married in 1959. He and his wife, Carol, raised three sons. Mike worked at John Deere for forty years, eventually becoming Senior Vice President. During that time, he helped the PGA to build a course on a property that had been an Arabian horse farm. He was honored by being asked to hit the first ball on the new course, TPC Deere Run. Mike received an honorary degree from St. Ambrose University due to all his charitable work. He has been involved for years in the YMCA, Junior Achievement, The United Way, and the development of the Moline Civic Center. Both Kathy’s mom & Mike’s late wife died from Alzheimer’s, so they are particularly interested in supporting the Alzheimer’s Association. Kathy and Mike first met in 2009 when Kathy was Director of Member Services at the “other” CCRC. Mike was there for only a year, but six months after he moved out, he called Kathy for a date, and the rest is history. They were married in 2016. Their five children live all over the United States and in Hong Kong, and they share seven grandchildren. They are extremely proud that all their kids are happy and choose to “give back.” And, we can’t forget Kelly, their delightful miniature golden doodle. She loves meeting everyone and is very fond of the receptionists. She learned very quickly that they have treats! The Plunketts have lived on Longboat Key, in Golden Gate, and in Southside Village. They’ve traveled extensively through Europe, but love Italy and Ireland the most. Be sure to look up this lively, interesting couple. You’ll be glad you did. By Penny Thomas — Biography Committee
The Harbor Light – 17 Our protagonists, Sue and Bob Lifeso, have lived as many tales as in 1001 Arabian Nights, and just as magical as Shahrazad’s. Their fairytale began at the University of Toronto, where Sue studied dental hygiene and Bob studied medicine. A honeymoon in Guadeloupe irresistibly tempted them to dream of further travel. After Bob’s internship in Toronto, they 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 Lifesos to cross Europe, the Middle East, Turkey, Iran, and Afghanistan. While dodging tribal wars, they precariously crossed from Pakistan into Kashmir. The IndoPakistani 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. In Toronto, Bob completed his Orthopedic Residency and a spine/trauma fellowship, while Sue worked as a dental hygienist to support the family. Soon 1001 More Magical Travels were in store for Bob and Sue, and the real fairytale Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was where their next adventures would take them! The first modern hospital opened in King Faisel’s date orchard! When Bob was asked to become its first and only spine surgeon, the genie was out of the bottle and granted their travel wish! Off went the Lifesos, now with two daughters, ages 4 and 10 months. An initial two-year commitment extended to a decade, the birth of a son, and Bob becoming personal surgeon to three kings. The Lifesos lived behind the palace walls. The children went to the Riyadh International School. Sue could come and go without facial or head covering. Bob had to relearn many of the diseases of antiquity. Tuberculosis, brucellosis, leprosy, and neglected trauma were endemic. Sue and Bob Lifeso A p t . T- 2 5 C , E x t . 3 8 7 Life in Riyadh revolved around strict adherence to the Koran and the climate. First prayer was at first light (4:30 AM). Bob, constantly on call, would be flown by private plane to the King, who met with Bob at 1:00-2:00 AM, after Majlis (council) (5:00-6:00 PM) or eating the main meal (11:00-12:00 AM). School for foreigners ended at grade 9, necessitating a move. Because the children had been educated in a US curriculum school, the Lifesos moved to SUNY Buffalo. The Lifesos children have since given their parents eight grandchildren, (including two sets of twins!) and are leaders in their work worlds. Their older daughter is head of the Division of Enforcement of the NY Stock Exchange. Their second daughter and son are VPs of other businesses. Vacations brought the Lifesos to Sarasota. Ultimately, in 2005, Bob and Sue bought a home on Lido Key, which became their permanent nest in 2012. Moving to PH was an inevitable denouement to this adventurous couple’s 1001 Magical Travels. We are so happy that Sue and Bob’s sequel of future trips will take flight from our rooftop! By Pam Baran — Biography Committee WELCOME, NEW FRIENDS!
18 – The Harbor Light Our new neighbor Bill Lambrecht has lived in Sarasota for more than 50 years – but only moved into Plymouth Harbor in June of this year. “When I moved here,” he says, “there were only seven tall buildings downtown. Popular topics of conversation in those days were the artists, sculptors and writers who had made Sarasota their home. Everybody looked forward to the annual circus road show dress rehearsals before they went out on tour!” Bill is a graduate of Princeton and the University of Michigan law school, and specialized in business and tax law. But he has had fascinating experiences beyond his work. An avid lifelong sailor, he was drawn to our community because of its proximity to the water and the fact that he can watch sailboats just outside his Tower windows. He and his brother Dick, also a Plymouth Harbor resident, raced yachts in the oceans and on the Great Lakes. He is active at Sarasota’s Church of the Redeemer, and served for nearly 20 years on the board of Selby Gardens, including a stint as Board chair. He helped to send botanists on collecting trips throughout the tropical Western Hemisphere to find and identify previously unknown species of orchids and bromeliads. While he enjoys gardening himself, his great interest at Selby was in rare orchids and the thousands of variations found in the orchid family. He notes that the move to Plymouth Harbor was especially pleasant because “Everyone here is so nice. That includes the staff, not just the residents. I have felt very warmly welcomed.” Please join them in welcoming Bill! Bill Lambrecht A p t . T- 8 0 1 , E x t . 4 6 6 By Lynne Woodman — Biography Committee WELCOME, NEW FRIENDS!
The Harbor Light – 19 S u s a n L ow y a n d Rob Harlan A p t . E - 1 0 1 , E x t . 2 0 2 As a biographer assigned to interview new residents to Plymouth Harbor, one is always hoping (secretly) to find subjects that are attractive, intelligent, well-educated, and traveled. I recently met with Rob Harlan and Susan Lowy and was delighted to learn that I could check all the boxes! After the couple volunteered some background information, the phrase: “And never the twain shall meet” popped into my mind. Fortunately, for them, and for us, they did. Rob was born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama and Susan was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Both were children of professors: Rob went to the Naval Academy and Susan to Boston University. Both hold advanced degrees: Rob in aviation and Susan in education. Rob served as a U.S. Marine Corps helicopter pilot in Vietnam and then went on to fly for PanAm for 25 years and Delta for five. Susan taught German and French for Middle School in Massachusetts and then became a trainer and instructional designer in the Washington, DC area. She has continued as an educator at Goodwill Manasota in Sarasota. They met on a boat trip along the Potomac in Washington, DC. Their first outing was riding bikes on a local trail and the rest is history! These two are active explorers and travelers. Over the past 38 years, they have owned several boats and explored many places around the Chesapeake Bay and the Florida coastline. They have biked on many trails in Florida. They have explored several trails in the U.S. and they even went on weeklong bike trips in four countries: the Netherlands, France, Germany, and Italy. Rob and Susan often visit New England, where Susan’s family still live, and Rob’s daughter and family settled. They have enjoyed many bike rides while visiting, and especially enjoy biking with their three grandchildren on Cape Cod. Having lived in Sarasota for 25 years, they are passionate and committed supporters of the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast. In 2021, they were Partners of the Year! They have supported other non-profits, enjoy going to the theater and museums and, of course, they still enjoy biking and some kayaking. They plan to continue with these activities as they settle into Plymouth Harbor. Please welcome them! WELCOME, NEW FRIENDS! By Kip O'Neill — Biography Committee
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 Elyse M. Rogers Kip O'Neill Lynne Woodman Pam Baran Penny Thomas Jeff Charlotte Chair, Plymouth Harbor, Inc. Board of Trustees Jeff Weatherhead President & CEO, Plymouth Harbor @PlymouthHarbor facebook.com/PlymouthHarbor life.wellzesta.com/plymouth-harbor/