The Harbor Light - November 2021

HarboTrhe Light

David Beliles

Bob Boltuch

John Williams

STARS & STRIPES

Plymouth Harbor
veterans share

treasured stories

Al Jennings Dick Cooley

NOVEMBER 2021

NOVEMBER

Serving Above Self

As a former Rotarian, I am most celebration of
aware that the phrase Service Veterans Day is
Above Self is the motto of Rotary. something that
I know that Rotary Founder, the reminds us, again,
late Paul Harris, wouldn’t mind if I of our strength in
borrowed this motto for just a few numbers. It’s been
moments as I recognize those who a common theme
served our country in the various as the COVID-19
branches of the service. These include pandemic continues to be a topic of
the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, conversation in our day-to-day lives —
Marines, National Guard, Navy, Royal we are a better world with the support
Navy, and of course the Navy WAVES. of one another.
This is the epitome of Service Above It matches up with the challenges
Self. of COVID-19, too. We are much
I am so proud of our residents and better off as a community because
Harbor Club members who served our of the selflessness and dedication of
country. In their own way they helped our “troops” of scientists and medical
preserve the freedom and pride we feel professionals. This includes Plymouth
today as citizens of the United States of Harbor’s healthcare heroes.
America. I also never lose sight of the So, as we reflect on this Veterans
importance of the treasured spouses Day, we say thank you to the men
and significant others of these veterans. and women who were once members
We must celebrate their contributions of the United States’ military forces,
of making sure the families “back and we know that we will continue
home” were safe and that life in the to persevere through life because of
States would continue while so often committed and strong people like
their loved ones were far away fighting them — no matter what comes our
for the freedom we cherish today. way.
Each one of these veterans have
exceptional stories they often share
with one another. I have heard my fair
share, believe me. Harry Hobson
I can’t help but feel as if the President & CEO

2 —­ The Har bor Light

STARS & STRIPES

Happy Veterans Day 2021

By Emmalee Molay | Communications Manager

There's arguably no greater dedication to our nation
than serving in the United States Armed Forces.
Within our rich community of residents and Harbor Club
members, Plymouth Harbor's veterans have lots to share
about those experiences during their committed service.

As we celebrate this year's Guard, as well as the UK Royal
Veterans Day, we have the Navy.
wonderful opportunity to honor
Plymouth Harbor's veterans with Each veteran has a unique story,
our annual pinning ceremony, and however they contributed to
along with our friends from the cause — each has a narrative
Tidewell Hospice. It's a treasure that is specific to them.
to recognize these individuals in
person for the first time in two And of course, our attempt was
years. to identify as many veterans at
Plymouth Harbor as possible,
Plymouth Harbor has identified however, we may have missed
more than 60 men and women in some. Whether or not your name
our base of residents and Harbor is listed, know that your service
Club members who served in every to your country in making the
branch of service — Army, Navy, world a better place does not go
Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast unappreciated. We thank you for
your service!

STARS & STRIPES The Har bor Light — 3

Martin Abrahams Jim Anderson Marvin Baker Michael Bennett
Army Air Force Harbor Club Harbor Club
Vietnam Navy
1955-1956 1961-1964 Army Vietnam
Payson Adams Captain Korea 1963-1967
1953-1955
Harbor Club Medical Corps Four tours in Vietnam
Army Tom Belcher Bob Boltuch
Air Force Air Force
Vietnam, Korea Vietnam
Desert Storm 1953-1957 1965-1967
Staff Sergeant
1969-1972 Medical officer, flight
Reserves 1969-93 physician, surgeon

Colonel Bob took this
Jim Ahstrom photo of
Army/Navy President Lydon
B. Johnson visiting
WWII Cam Ranh Bay in
1943-47, 1950-52 1966 — in which he
served at the 12th
Terry Aldrich USAF hospital as a
Air Force physician.
Since becoming
David Beliles a veteran, Bob
Marine Corps says the most
significant award he
Korea ever received was
1948-1952 gratitude.
Sergeant "It was always an
emotional moment
Arthur Ancowitz when another
Army/Navy Vietnam veteran
WWII, Korea said, 'Welcome
home, brother,'"
1940-42, 1950-52 he said. "To me
One of Arthur's duties it was a way of
in the Army was in After his service in the saying, 'Whew we
the Pentagon as an internist, Army, Arthur returned to survived.'"
with the responsibility of the Veteran’s Administration
accompanying VIPs assigned where he served as the Section STARS & STRIPES
Chief in Internal Medicine at
by the President on numerous the Bronx VA Hospital. He
air flights across the world. says he enjoys being a veteran
Among these VIPs was and equally enjoyed both the
General Omar N. Bradley — Army and Navy.
one of the United States’ most "I was very fortunate to
distinguished and respected come back from everything in
generals. good health," he said.

4 ­— The Har bor Light

Bill Brackett Dodie Dashiell Ed Dupree Tom Goddard
Army Navy WAVES Harbor Club Navy
Korea
WWII Army Vietnam
1953-1955 Decoded Vietnam 1964-1968
Reporter, disc jockey German messages 1951-1972 Lieutenant
Bob Dawson Lieutenant Colonel; Jim Griffith
Richard Carroll Air Force Distinguished
Army Vietnam Flying Cross, Two Navy
1969-1973 Bronze Stars WWII
Larry Coffey Ike Eisenfeld 1945-1946
Air Force Carl Denney Army/Air Force Medical Corpsman
1954-1956 Coast Guard WWII, Korea Colin Harris
1958-1964 Tom Elliott Royal Navy (UK)
1st Lieutenant Lieutenant, Army 1953-1956
Captain of 95- Vietnam Served for
Richard Cooley foot long ship, 1959-1962 Great Britain
Army Commanding officer Mary Ann Fair Gregory Hetter
at LORAN station Army Army
Vietnam, Desert Vietnam Al Higgins
Storm, Somalia 1960-1963 Marines
Nurse Corps during 1955
1966-2000 Berlin Crisis
Colonel; Legion of Michael Fox The Har bor Light — 5
Merit, Three Bronze Army
Stars, Purple Heart, Vietnam
Knowlton Award Major
Warren Coville Don Fosselman
Army/Air Force Army
Korea
WWII 1953-1955
1943-45 Greg Fosselman
Aerial photographer Army
STARS & STRIPES Korea
1950-1952
Richard Friedman
Korea
1951-1953
2nd Lieutenant

Tom Hopkins Jack Kidd Karen Olson Jay Rixse
Harbor Club Air Force Harbor Club Harbor Club
Cuban crises
Air Force 1963-1968 Air Force Navy
Vietnam Security Division 1973-1993 Vietnam
1969-1974 John Kittle Lieutenant Colonel 1963-1991
Captain; Harbor Club David Pearah Captain
KC-135 navigator National Guard Ed Rogers
Tramm Hudson 1967-1973 Navy Air Force
Harbor Club 1st Lieutenant Vietnam Korea
Lewis Lawrence 1964-1966 Charles Resnick
Army Harbor Club Lieutenant Harbor Club
Cold War Jamo Powell Army Air Corps
1975-1979 Navy WWII
Reserves 1979-1996 Cold War Army
Al Jennings 1959-1964 Korea
Air Force Helicopter pilot 1958-1988
Vietnam tracking enemy Colonel; Legion of
1954-1980 submarines Merit with Oak Leaf
Legion of Merit Arnold Kropf Cluster, Bronze Star
Medal, Distinguished Harbor Club
Flying Cross, Air Force David Signori
Meritorious Service Vietnam Army
Medal, Air Medal 1952-1984
Fighter pilot Vietnam
Bill Johnston Richard March 1968-1970
Army Captain; Meritorious
Navy Service Medal
Sidney Katz Gus Nimick STARS & STRIPES
Army
WWII Army
WWII
1942-1945 1946-1947
Major in Gary Olson
Medical Corps Navy
1963-1969
6 —­ The Har bor Light Naval Air
Reserve Program

Bill Steele Sallie VanArsdale John Williams
Air Force Navy WAVES Navy
1956-1960 WWII Korea
1944-46
Pilot 1951-1954
Phil Starr WAVES — for Air intelligence
Women officer on five
Army Accepted for different carriers
1957-1959 Volunteer
Budget Officer Emergency Service As a veteran of
— was the women's the Korean
branch of the United War, John, the retired
States Naval Reserve lieutenant junior
during World War grade, has quite the
II. It was established story serving as the Air Intelligence
on July 21, 1942 by Officer of VF-21. On May 26, 1954, John
the U.S. Congress. was aboard the USS Bennington when its
During her times hydraulic system in the catapult exploded
with the WAVES, while operating on the coast of Rhode Island.
Sallie worked for the "After the first launch, three of us were
supply corps. leaving the ready room as it happened," he
said. "An Air Force exchange officer was first
Ky Thompson Herb Waltzer out and was blown down the passageway. The
Marine Corps Air Force man in front of me, pushed me back in. I was
1955-1957 two steps from death.
Vietnam "After 30 minutes, I finally got someone on
1964-1989 Roger Weiss the intercom. I told him I was getting all the
Lieutenant Colonel; Army pilots out of there. He said I couldn't. I told
Purple Heart Medal him I would, as it was my job. I had everyone
David Thomas Vietnam tie their ties around their noses to avoid the
Harbor Club 1959-161 fumes. My roommate led the parade with
Ordnance Corps eyes closed, and everyone had their hand on
Army Dale Woodling the shoulder of the one to the front. When
Vietnam Harbor Club we reached the flight deck and saw who was
1971-72, 1991-93 there, and my best friend wasn't. I told the
Bronze Star, Army skipper I was going down to find him. He said,
Vietnamese Service Cold War 'You can't,' and I said, 'I'm sorry, but you can't
Ribbon; Captain/ 1979-2006 order me to not do my job.' I found him as a
Temporary Major medic was trying to get a needle in his arm,
Tom Towler but the veins were collapsed. He died in my
arms."
Army John's best friend, lieutenant junior grade
Korea Charles Hopper, was one of 104 officers and
men lost in the accidental explosion that day.
STARS & STRIPES John was assigned the unpleasant job of
flying to Washington to arrange the funerals.
Now age 92, John says he still often thinks
about his dear friend — carrying parts of his
memory with him every day.
"He taught me how to play bridge, and still
I don't think I'm as good as he was," John said
with a smile.

The Har bor Light — 7

LET'S GET LIVE

Check out some featured live programming for the month of November. For any
questions, please contact Anne Casanova at Ext. 252 or [email protected].

Every Friday at 7:30 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall — Friday night movies in Pilgrim Hall! Check the
Weekly Flyer for movie titles each week and join friends to watch!

Every Monday at 7:30 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall — Monday mini-series shown in Pilgrim Hall!
Continuing with the series "Designated Survivor" — Who is in line of succession to be the
next President when the president and most of the Cabinet are wiped out?

Every Tuesday and Thursday at 4 p.m. — Join the group to play Bocce with friends on the
back terrace behind the outdoor pool through November 15.

Monday, November 1 at 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the Mayflower Restaurant — Join us for acoustic
guitar or piano entertainment for Monday Melodies in the Mayflower. Music will also be
played on Monday, November 8, Monday, November 15 and Monday, November 22.

Tuesday, November 2 and November 16 at 2 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall — “Tuesday Tech at
Two” features computer and technology members from TUBE Tech to teach a technology
session. The class runs for one hour, but you may sign up ahead of time to meet with the
instructor after class to help you individually with specific issues. These appointments are
between 3 to 5 p.m. The team will be here every two weeks. Please call Anne with any
questions, to sign-up for the session and to sign-up for one-on-one with the team afterward.

Thursday, November 4 from 8:45 to 11 a.m. in
Pilgrim Hall — Plymouth Harbor is a founding sponsor
of the Senior Friendship Centers' virtual series titled
"The Reinvention Convention." Contact Anne to
reserve a seat to watch this session in this series live via
Zoom in Pilgrim Hall — The Human Brain: Practical
Tools for Living Long & Aging Well.

8 —­ The Har bor Light AROUND CAMPUS

Tuesday, November 9 at 3 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall — Resident Paul Groen
leads a sing-along group called "Choraleers" for all residents. All are welcome
— folks who like to sing music in the classic four parts.

Tuesday, November 9 at 4:30 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall — Resident and
former Executive Director of the National Assessment Governing Board,
Roy Truby, gives a presentation titled "The Nation's Report Card: State
Comparison & International Assessments in Education."

Wednesday, November 10 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. (East Garden Colony Room) — Residents
should call Anne Casanova at Ext. 252 to schedule appointment for a FREE Hearing Spa Clinic.
Please specify if appointment is for wax removal, hearing aid cleaning or hearing screening.

Thursday, November 11 at 2 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall — Plymouth Harbor
honors its veterans with a pinning ceremony joined by our friends from
Tidewell Hospice. This ceremony is limited to invitation only for veterans
and guests. Please check with Anne Casanova for any questions.

Thursday, November 11 at 3 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall — Local author and
94-year-old veteran Chuck Palmeri joins us for a presentation "Eyewitness
to Dauchau" in honor of Veterans Day. Open to all residents via
reservation — contact Anne to reserve your seat as Chuck speaks on his

book "Boy Soldier."

Friday, November 12 at 7:30 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall — The Sarasota Orchestra's
Piano Quartet joins us for a dazzling performance. Don't miss members
Jennifer Best Takeda, assistant concertmaster; Matthew Pegis, assistant
principal viola; Christopher Schnell, assistant principal cello and Jonathan
Spivey, principal keyboard. Reservations required to Anne Casanova.

Monday, November 15 through Sunday, November 21 — November's
week for "Destination Dining" will take you on a trip to India! Keep an eye
out for entertainment associated with the theme throughout the week! Don't
forget to bring your Destination Dining Passports with you for your stamp.
Dinner Reservations may be made by calling Ext. 258.

AROUND CAMPUS The Har bor Light — 9

Wednesday, November 17 at 7:30 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall — Come join
the performers of International Productions by Tahja, bringing you a
music and dance tribute to the magical and mystical land of India. The
performance will be a combination of Bollywood and Classical dance
styles, as well as music, song and folklore of India. We look forward to
seeing you there — reservations required to Anne Casanova.

Wednesday, November 17 at 3 p.m. in Pilgrim Hall — Resident Paul Groen leads sing-along
for ALL who love to sing but cannot necessarily sing parts or even carry a tune, with this group
focusing on Thanksgiving and Holiday songs. All voices welcomed and appreciated!

Thursday, November 18 at 6 p.m.
in the Café; following with 7:30 p.m.
in the East Garden Atrium — The
Sarasota Chorus of the Keys has been
entertaining Suncoast audiences for
more than 70 years, and they join us
for two performances. The quartet
will entertain in the Mayflower Dining
Room and follow with a formal riser-
performance in the East Garden Atrium.

Monday, November 15 through Friday, November 19 — The Wellness and Programming
Department holds its annual Resident Wellness Week to celebrate healthy living amongst us all!
Check out the following special events throughout the week.

Monday, November 15 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. — Visiting the Ringling
Museum: Take a free tour through the historic Ringling Museum, viewing 21
different art exhibits including prints, ceramics, glass work and sculptures.
For an additional fee, explore the Ca d’Zan and Circus Museum. Lunch
is available for purchase onsite at the Ringling Grill. RSVP REQUIRED
— contact Anna Olsen at Ext. 350 or Summer Rentsch at Ext. 377 by the
deadline of Friday, November 5.

10 ­— The Har bor Light AROUND CAMPUS

Tuesday, November 16 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. — Kayak Adventure: Join “Kayaking
SRQ” for a guided tour through the mangroves, the perfect way to experience the beauty of
Sarasota’s hidden tunnels. We will spend a few hours on the water, launching from Ted Sperling
Park. After the tour concludes, a picnic lunch will be provided. RSVP REQUIRED — contact
Anna Olsen at Ext. 350 or Summer Rentsch at Ext. 377 by the deadline of Friday, November 5.

Wednesday, November 17 from 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Ceramic
Painting: In partnership with local art studio, The Artful Giraffe,
we bring an artful experience to you! Join us as we paint holiday
ornaments in the Wellness Group Exercise room. We bring the
supplies, you bring your smiles. RSVP REQUIRED — contact Anna
Olsen at Ext. 350 or Summer Rentsch at Ext. 377 by the deadline of Friday, November 5.

Wednesday, November 17 from 3:30 to 4 p.m. — Mindful Meditation
& Music Therapy: Join fitness instructor and concert musician, Tasha
Robinson, as she creates a relaxing and calm atmosphere using musical
instruments to guide you through a rejuvenating and mindful meditation. We
welcome you to come practice with us in the Group Exercise room.

Thursday, November 17 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. — Demo
Day: Join fitness instructor, Sandy Bellino, as she demonstrates a fun and
invigorating fitness class as well as a calm and focused Qigong class. No
experience necessary; both standing and chair-based options will be shown.
Following this demonstration, Health Services Exercise Specialist, Clee Elie,
will transition us to the Fitness Center to demonstrate and educate on cardio
equipment, as well as holding a Q&A session.

Thursday, November 17 from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. — Ice Cream Social: Indulge in a refreshing
scoop of ice cream with fresh fruit toppings while mingling with friends, neighbors and
instructors in the Wellness Commons area.

Friday, November 19 from 9 to 9:45 a.m. — Turkey Trot: A guided “Turkey Trot” route will
begin at Plymouth Harbor’s Tower Main Lobby entrance and end at the entrance of Bird Key
Park with refreshments!

Friday, November 19 from 9:45 to 10:15 a.m. — Skyline Stretch in Bird Key
Park: Join yoga instructor, Reena Malik, in a stretching sequence that rejuvenates
the muscles and mind while overlooking the skyline of the city of Sarasota.

AROUND CAMPUS The Har bor Light — 11

SIMPLE REMINDER

Plymouth Harbor team members Free lunches, additional gratuity
work very hard to make our lives safe checks, etc., all of which have been
and comfortable, especially throughout greatly appreciated by the staff.
this COVID time period. Residents What’s the best way to show your
have expressed their appreciation to appreciation on a daily basis? Be kind.
team members in a number of ways. It’s that simple. Just be kind.

CONSERVATION TIP

More than 70% of Earth’s At Plymouth Harbor we every day. Many are already
surface is covered with water. can access clean water any making wonderful suggestions
Only about 3% of the water on time of day by just turning to their neighbor. Here are
our planet is not salt water. on the faucet. Many people a few of their suggestions of
around the world do not have actions that really work:
Of this tiny amount of running water in their homes
fresh water, much is locked or even access to clean water. • Turn off the water while
in ice and glaciers. Of the They must gather water from you are brushing your
remainder, less is available sources like communal wells, teeth or shaving.
to humans because of rising sewers, rivers, streams, ponds,
populations and increased lakes or swamps. Depending • Make sure you only
pollutions. This tiny bit of on where they live, there could run your dishwasher or
fresh water is often polluted be all kinds of undesirable clothes washer when full.
by oil spills, bacteria and other items in their water like fish,
organisms, toxic chemicals plants, other wild life, trash, • Have Housekeeping
and litter, even run-off from wastes, chemicals and more. change your linens every
city streets, industrial waste two weeks.
and much more. We are very Recognizing this situation, it
lucky in the United States to is important that residents and • See if you can keep
have sources of fresh water staff alike constantly seek ways your shower time to five
and sanitation facilities. to use less water each and minutes or less.

• Don’t flush your toilet
during the night. Wait
until morning!

Submitted by Bill Brackett — Conservation Committee

12 —­ The Har bor Light AROUND CAMPUS

New in the Library

Fiction

Another Kind of Eden by James Lee Burke
Beautiful World, Where Are You by Sally Rooney
Bewilderment by Richard Powers
Black Ice: a Thriller by Brad Thor
Complications by Danielle Steel LP
Dreaming of Chocolate by Susan Bishop Crispell and

Gathering of Secrets by Linda Castillo: Double Book LP*
Harlem Shuffle by Colson Whitehead
Intimacies by Katie Kitamura
Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles
Madness of Crowds by Louis Penny
The Noise by James Patterson*
Of Blood and Bone by Nora Roberts*
Slow Fire Burning by Paula Hawkins LP
Three Seconds by Roslund & Hellstrom*

Non-Fiction *donated

All In: An Autobiography by Billie Jean King LP
How the Word is Passed by Clint Smith*
I Alone Can Fix It by Carol Leaning & Philip Rucker*
Killing Crazy Horse by Bill O’Reilly & Martin Dugard*
Peril by Bob Woodward
Red Comet by Heather Clark

New in the Library The Har bor Light — 13

WELCOME, NEW FRIENDS!

Introducing your newest neighbors

BARBARA ENDRIZZI

Apartment E-309; Ext. 238

When contacted for her her to apply to to Plymouth
biography, Barbara said, “I an NBC television Harbor even
don’t have much of anything program, “3 on though she was
interesting to tell you; I was a Match.” She unfamiliar with
a suburban housewife.” took the trivia Sarasota.
Five minutes with this lively, test, went on the
humorous well-traveled show, and won a Barbara
woman will tell you that she car, a bedroom has traveled
has been far more than “just set, a diamond extensively
a housewife.” ring, a piano and to Russia,
enough cash to Australia/
Barbara lived for 42 years pay the taxes! If New Zealand,
in Huntington, Long Island, Plymouth Harbor has a trivia Ireland, Great
married, and had a daughter contest, you definitely want Britain, France, Italy, Spain,
and a son. Divorced after 24 Barbara on your team! the Dalmatian Coast and
years, she resumed a career Greece. She looks forward
as secretary that had begun This highly independent to visiting Lake Como and
as “second secretary” in the woman has moved twice to the Canadian Rockies, and
office of the Chairman of communities where she knew she would love to meet other
Mobil Oil Corporation. She no one. First, when she was people at Plymouth Harbor
retired as Administrative newly retired, she moved to who enjoy travel.
Assistant to the owners of a Canton, Georgia, where she “Just a housewife?” Hardly.
L.I. Importing Company, a job was lured by the subdivision’s Not surprisingly, Barbara has
she was offered because she many tennis courts, beautiful already made friends here
was the only applicant who golf course and many who have introduced her to
could take shorthand, thanks volunteer opportunities. many others. When you meet
to her post-college training at Tennis is now limited because her, you will quickly feel that
Katherine Gibbs School. of a knee injury, but she you have also become one of
looks forward to finding those new friends.
Early in her marriage, pickleball games. She moved Welcome, Barbara!
Barbara’s brother challenged

By Penny Thomas — Biography Committee

14 —­ The Har bor Light

ROBERT WILK

Robert is an adventurous with teaching him discovered Sarasota, soon
man of many talents! the elegance and found Plymouth Harbor and
Sculpture is his most recent power of simplicity. realized he had found his
re-invention of himself. next home. Although his
Standing on Second Street After retiring, he heart may remain in Venice,
outside of the Urbanite moved to Venice, he is very happy to be part
Theater in Sarasota is one Italy, again re- of a "quality community" at
of his works, a stack of red inventing himself Plymouth Harbor. His Motto?
boxes precariously balanced. as a "Culinary "Life is as good as you make
Impresario," creating it!"
One of his most “Roberto’s Italian
favorite works was at the Table — Culinary Welcome, Robert!
Berkshire Art Museum in and Cultural
Massachusetts, the sole Holidays in Italy.”
sculpture in front of the For the next 10
museum. "Coming from that years, he arranged
part of the country, I was highly sought-after
thrilled!!!” luxury weeks in
Venice, Florence,
His boyhood home was in Rome and Portofino
the Berkshires. As a young for an international
man, fresh with a degree clientele. Each group
in Philosophy, he arrived enjoyed a week in a
in New York, where, it grand hotel, specially
seemed, no one was hiring hosted dinners
philosophers. Instead, he was at outstanding
hired by the Ford Agency to restaurants,
model and became the face private cultural
of the Budweiser Man on visits to important
beer trucks throughout the sites, musical
nation. Then he met Ralph performances in private
Lauren and learned real life palazzos and country villas
marketing from a master. and daily cooking lessons by
different chefs. “The Sunday
Following a six-month Times” in London chose him
marketing project In Tokyo, as "the Perfect Host" of one
he stayed for 25 years, of "Our Top Ten European
working as a marketing Cookery Schools."
consultant to American and
European companies entering When it was finally time to
the Japanese market. He loved return to the States, Robert
living there and credits Japan

By Gretchen Dawson — Biography Committee

The Har bor Light — 15

The Spirit f Philanthropy

The Rich and Abundant Season of Gratitude

There’s no better time friends and
than the pending season family near
of gratitude to express The and far.
Foundation’s deep appreciation For many,
to the Plymouth Harbor there will
community. What an honor be trips to
and privilege it was to be able see and
to turn to each other for care, spoil the
compassion, leadership and grandkids,
friendship during yet another for others hosting celebrations of
difficult year of uncertainty. life delayed because of the virus.
As we soon gather around These will be emotion filled
the table and give thanks, this moments as we celebrate life
particular and give thanks
holiday season "To speak gratitude is for all that
will no doubt courteous and pleasant, we have been
be filled with to enact gratitude is blessed.
a renewed
sense of hope generous and noble, but You have also
been a blessing
as we return to live gratitude is to to Plymouth
to somewhat Harbor as your
normalcy and touch Heaven." generosity
celebrate with
Johannes A. Gaertner throughout the

Beth Watson has been the Vice President of Philanthropy of The Plymouth Harbor
Foundation since 2019. Please feel free to call her with questions or comments at Ext. 398.

16 ­— The Har bor Light The Spirit f Philanthropy

years has helped — THANK YOU!
create a Year-end giving is
lasting
impact critical to The
on the Plymouth Harbor
lives of Foundation. For
your fellow those wishing
residents, their to make a
gift before the
families and team new year, please
members. respond to the annual
Your many acts of appeal letter that will be
kindness this past coming to your mailboxes
year is inspiring. Your gifts shortly. Thank you so very, very
provided a steady stream much.
of flowers and musicians
for services in our beloved Yours in faith and gratitude,
MacNeil Chapel, enabled the Beth Watson
saws to keep buzzing in our Vice President of Philanthropy
Wood and Craft Shop, provided The Plymouth
delightful programs in Pilgrim Harbor Foundation
Hall and allowed many capital
enhancements throughout our
campus.
Your continued generosity to
our team members has been
simply amazing. Your support
has given comfort in their time
of financial hardship, provided
many delicious free lunches
and awarded scholarships
to help them pursue their
academic dreams. On behalf of
the 26 students YOU awarded
scholarships to this past summer

The Spirit f Philanthropy The Har bor Light — 17

Staying HEALTHY in Florida
DEALING WITH FATIGUE

By Elyse Rogers And then, how can we get some of your choice, etc.
old zip back into our lives? Rethink Your Daily Exercise
I don’t know about you, but • Give exercising a new spin
I’m “tired.” Really tired! And I As most of you readers by shuffling your routine
think many of my friends and now know, whenever I am in • Move it to a new location
family are tired out, too. quandary I start the solution • Try a new “time of day”
process by making hopeful, for it, or add a brief slice
So what’s this ambiguous workable lists. So, here goes: of exercise in a new time
feeling of tiredness, or general- slot
ennui that I’m referring to? List of New Actions to Get • Add a short “outside in the
I’m not even sure what to Us Out of the Doldrums open air” dimension
call it, but as a start, I looked Try Something Brand New • Design a new Exercise
up the word fatigue in the • Learn a new language Action Program and call
Merriam-Webster Dictionary. • Start keeping a diary it something crazy like
Here’s what I got: Weariness or • Write poetry Cruise Prep, 100-miler
exhaustion from labor, exertion, • Take up knitting Plan, Suzy’s Steps or
or stress. whatever sounds fun and
or crocheting (or zany to you.
Well, I guess that definition woodworking, or…) To get you started, here’s
will suffice to capture the Phone an Old Friend
overall general malaise • Call your old high school some interesting fitness titles I
that’s permeating much of best friend found on Google:
the citizenry in our own • Call the family member
communities. And, I have a you’ve lost touch with • Sweat/SweatFest
sense that it also describes • Call someone you’ve • Power Hour
the mood among many other worked with and admired • Curls n'Crunches
citizens around the world. and tell them so • Abs Fab/FabAbs
• (Hmm — but maybe • Walk this Weigh
Normally, we’d combat fatigue not an old squeeze — • Sanity Session
with a good night’s sleep or you don’t need more • F-abs Fridays
an impromptu afternoon nap, problems…) • Lunch Crunch/Lunge
but unfortunately the kind of Do a Disagreeable Job or Two • Wishful Shrinking
fatigue we’re discussing isn’t This may sound like • Werk It!
cured by such quick fixes. Alas punishment, but most will Read an Upbeat Book
— it’ll take more than a bunch agree that completing a Everyone enjoys reading,
of ZZZs to cure the weariness disagreeable job or jobs that and we’re lucky that we have
in our souls, or to diffuse the you’ve put off, really does perk libraries and bookstores
inertia that surviving COVID one up. Clean out that junk in our communities. But
seems to bring on. drawer, sweep the back of the choosing titles that will be
garage, pack up those long-ago- both interesting and good for
So, what can we do to combat finished books for the charity
these present-day doldrums?

Elyse Rogers has been a Plymouth Harbor resident since 2019. Her column for The Harbor Light entitled Staying
Healthy in Florida runs monthly. Elyse is a Registered Nurse with advanced degrees in nursing, education and
medical communications. Please feel free to email her with questions or comments at [email protected].

18 ­— The Har bor Light Staying HEALTHY in Florida

our souls can be a challenge. and read the morning papers they have volunteer lists or
Fortunately, we have many or the stock of magazines bulletin board requests from
sources of help on selecting provided. If one wants to take reputable non-profits who need
books. a book back to read later, it’s volunteer help. Most are eager
an easy-to-use honor system to for volunteer recruits that come
Now that both libraries and sign out books for a two-week from interested and involved
bookstores are open, we can period. There’s also a special people who live in the area they
do in-person visits. If we don’t bookcase with books that are serve.
have “wheels” we can either free to take. These are usually
“Uber it” or find a friend who older books or duplicates, but Remember that there
does. Or, we also have digital often you’ll find one that’s a are usually many more
books available from most little different from your usual opportunities than willing
libraries (Selby Library in reading fare, and who doesn’t volunteers, so do take a little bit
Sarasota has a good collection). enjoy a surprise read now and of time before signing up with
Online book services are also then? I recently picked up an an organization — particularly
available through Amazon. old Agatha Christie collection when it’s not an organization
Many of us already swap books of short stories that was both you know much about. Better
with our friends and family fun and nostalgic! to take some time investigating
members. And, of course, and planning before
friends and family members Volunteer to Help at a Local committing, than to jump in
are also excellent sources for Non-Profit Organization too soon and then want to quit
book recommendations. when you realize it’s not a good
I’m sure most of us know fit for you. As with most things
I should not forget to numerous organizations that in life, impulsive and restless
mention book clubs, as they can and do use volunteers. acts are usually not good for
are popular and easy to set Both smaller organizations you or fair to others.
up. Most book clubs work on with a special focus, and
the premise that everyone in organizations that have a wide Be Patient
the club will read the same appeal use volunteers and Even if we all do everything
assigned book, and then are usually delighted when a right to get back the “joie
participate in a scheduled newcomer expresses an interest de vivre” we had before the
group discussion of that book. in volunteering. COVID-era, it’ll probably take
The discussion session is led a while for all the old, familiar
either by a club member or a If you or a friend are pieces to fall back into place.
special guest, and often begins interested in getting involved But they will with patience and
with a short book review. with a new organization in the confidence.
In our modern technology community, it’s probably best Remember, my tennis
age, it’s fairly easy to arrange to start by asking family or pro who was getting tired
virtual meetings (think Zoom friends for their suggestions. of the “fake it” routine that
sessions), or use email to pass Or inquire at your local place his expensive coach had
notes and comments from one of worship about the good prescribed? You know, the
member to the next. organizations that they know feeling of “Yeah, yeah, but
of and/or like to support, when’s it ever going to actually
I can’t resist mentioning and then ask further about happen?” And then it did!
our own in-house Library volunteer opportunities. So keep that “smile on your
at Plymouth Harbor. We are face and song in your heart”
so fortunate to have a cozy, Another good starting while we all charge merrily into
well-stocked library for both point could be with local the dawning of 2022!
selecting books and to provide facilities, such as community See you there!
a comfy space to hang-out gyms or local libraries that
you frequent. Ask them if

Staying HEALTHY in Florida The Har bor Light — 19

facebook.com/PlymouthHarbor Dr. Bruce Berg
@PlymouthHarbor Chair, Plymouth Harbor,

Inc. Board of Trustees
Harry Hobson
President & CEO

HARBOR LIGHT STAFF
Anne Casanova
Programming and
Events Coordinator
Joe Devore

Senior Vice President of Health Services
Emmalee Molay

Communications Manager
Liz Sparr

Director of Sales &
Community Relations

Beth Watson
Vice President of Philanthropy

Tena Wilson
Vice President of Resident
& Team Member Relations

HARBOR LIGHT BIOGRAPHERS
Gretchen Dawson — Chair
Catha Abrahams
Carlotta Cooley
Lorna Hard
Kathy Hendricks
Joy McIntyre
Estelle Silbert
Penny Thomas
Sallie VanArsdale