Golden Lakes Village

Love in Action 

By Ruth Tschudin

(8-26-21)

As August draws to a close, so does the read-ing of our chapter-a-day in the Book of Proverbs. This time I’m reading the 31 chapters in two translations: the Revised Standard Version used by my parents (given to Mom by Dad on Christmas Day, 1957) and "The Message" (a modern paraphrase by Eugene Peterson). Every chapter of Proverbs is a wealth of wisdom well-worth our while. I’m always admonished by the verses that refer to talking too much. Here’s a good one from Chapter 21 in Peterson’s vernacular: "Watch your words and hold your tongue; you’ll save yourself a lot of grief." ("And others, too!"… that’s my own 2-cents based on my own experience.)

On the other hand, I’m always inspired by verses that speak of generosity… like my longtime favorite: "One man gives freely, yet grows all the richer… one who waters will himself be watered (chap. 11 in RSV)." I bet LIA members and supporters could add a lot of fascinating two-cent comments to this truth! When we sow seeds of love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (called fruit of the spirit) they increase in our lives, too. And the "icing on the cake" is that we draw closer to our Maker by serving Him with gladness while gaining lasting friendships along the way. Here, for example, is what Sydelle wrote in honor of a very special, recently-deceased LIA friend:

"Truly one of a kind. Always a smile and a warm greeting for me—and a happy, cheerful demeanor whenever others joined us. Earnest with her question "How are you today?" and sincere when she’d say "I do hope you feel better. Always a pleasure to be in her company, as she was eager to help anybody in whatever way she could.

"Cooking, her favorite hobby. Recipes gladly shared. An overall generosity that knew no boundaries. Missed by her many friends here in Golden Lakes. A dear and treasured friend. May she rest in peace."

And here is what David, an LIA friend and supporter, said about Lenore when he helped us Zoom into her memorial service. Obviously he, too, was:

"I got to know Lenore shortly after arriving at GLV in 2009. My first encounter with her was at the computer club where she was the program chairperson.When she found out I was a computer person she was always after me to speak at a meeting. I joined and began to learn that Lenore was much more than just a fellow computer club member. I gradually found out how much she had done for Golden Lakes over the years and was still doing as a member of almost every organization.

"My next encounter with Lenore was when my wife and I received a handwritten anniversary note from Lenore, a personal note written in a loving style that touched our hearts. Then I found out that she sent birthday greetings, get-well notes, sympathy cards and was the Board's Condolence Committee. It was much later that I learned the full extent of Lenore's influence on Golden Lakes Village (GLV) and its residents. She was an involved, loving, and caring person."

I (Ruth) will now add an additional "4-cents" because I was close to Lenore and think of her each time I pass her street en route to our condo (which is almost every day.) I, too, first met her at the Computer Club and her welcoming, affirming outreach to Hugo and me as newbies to GLV meant a lot to us. I also fondly remember her positive, enthusiastic response to my idea of a Love in Action group in Golden Lakes. From day one she was active in our group—in fact, she was the first secretary of our fledgling all-village organization. And after retirement from that leadership position she made up for it by still being a faithful and active member. She supported many of our activities; always brought something for our pre-Covid refreshment table and gladly jumped right in whenever we needed help at the refreshment or sign-in tables. She also gave containers of her homemade soups to her LIA friends and to the housebound.

We end with a lovely poem (also written by Sydelle) that’s all about friendship. I can just hear Lenore adding her 2-cents of appreciation as she often did by saying: "Thank you, kindly!" You’re welcome, dear friend. We look forward to honoring you and others who have gone before at LIA’s November "Celebration of Lives" Memorial Gathering.

LOVE IN ACTON (LIA) THANKS GUEST WRITERS...

GOOD FRIENDS

by Sydelle Banks, 2018

Good friends are worth more than mere words can say.

They brighten and lighten and lift every day.

When our world seems in ruins they comfort and care,

They listen, advise and simply "are there."

And as we grow older with each passing year

Good friends of all types become much more dear.

So hold on to the "oldies" and welcome the new

You’ll be glad that you did—and they will be, too!

(Above) Sydelle Banks: gifted singer, actress and writer, and longtime LIA member. Sydelle started the "Still Young at Heart Club" in GLV, which brought people together for all sorts of fun activities. She did a fabulous job interviewing the nonagenarians (those turning 90 or more) who were honored at LIA's 2019 Birthday Bash. And most of all, she’s been a great friend to so many. Even during Covid, Sydelle visited her friend Lenore (right) every week, even when it meant standing outside, just waving to her and mouthing "I love you!"

David Barbieri: well-known on the GLV campus and loved by all who know him. LIA is especially grateful for his help in running big-event slide shows on the auditorium screen. After completing a tour of duty in the Air Force and retiring from a 38-year career in Connecticut as a computer programmer and manager, he and his wife Mary moved to GLV in 2009. He served on the Board of Directors for a number of years, first as President, and now, as the web site administrator. He is also on the interview/orientation committee (welcoming newbies into the community) and active in Golden Lakes Phase A Italian-American Club. He and Mary enjoy traveling and visiting family.

"98th birthday celebrated by longtime LIA member, Florence Laudicina"

Enjoying a grand celebration 

in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 

with family.

Surrounded by son and grandson,

both Anthony.

In her honor great-grandchildren Angelina and AJ proudly wear special shirts that say: "It took me 98 years to look this good!"

(8-12-21)

Let’s go on a Treasure Hunt! Let’s see how many hidden treasures we can find in those whose paths cross ours. Things like talents, interests, hobbies, accomplishments, stories to be told and wisdom to be shared.

The great thing about this Treasure Hunt is that we don’t have to go somewhere else or do anything special; the "acres of diamonds" are right in our own backyard. We only have to adjust our sights and keep in mind that what we think we know about ourselves and others is just the tip of the "iceberg" of who we really are. There’s lots to learn about each other that is well worth sharing.

With this in mind, Love in Action (LIA) invites you, dear readers, to join us as we grab our imaginary "goodness geiger counters" for a fun challenge to search out the best in others. Each new treasure brought to light makes a positive difference by warming hearts, softening stances and changing both thoughts and actions for the better.

Let’s also turn the geiger counters on ourselves to magnify and mine those wonderful memories, experiences, dreams and desires just waiting to enrich our and others’ lives. I think of Harold Sussman, our periodontist friend who wrote the LIA column last October telling about when he and his wife, Jackie, moved from NY to Golden Lakes Village (GLV). I recently found out that he and Jackie produced a book back in the 80’s, along with a related DVD, for teachers and students in NYC Public School District 75 (where Jackie was working as a Special-Education Speech therapist at the time). Not surprisingly, the topic is the care of our teeth. Here is his story:

by Dr. Harold I. and Jacqueline S. Sussman

Cast of Characters: Samara Squirrel, Mother Squirrel, Rebecca Rabbit, Bradford Beaver, Daddy Dentist, Teacher Turtle, Clifford Crocodile and Tamatha Tiger

Drawings by Richard Kushner

Voiceover on DVD by Joseph Sirola

Book Design by Samara B. Sussman

"I spent over 20 years on the teaching staff, as a Clinical Professor of Periodontics at New York University School of Dentistry. This was in addition to my private practice in Manhattan. My wife Jacqueline was employed by the New York City Board of Education as a speech therapist in special education at a pubic school in the Bronx, NY. She worked with special-ed students that were autistic and/or physically and mentally challenged.

"In 1985 she asked me to write a children’s book to teach oral hygiene techniques to her students. We collaborated and went on to produce a book entitled " A Smile for Samara." It had a cast of animal characters and contained the names of our four children: Bradford (Beaver), Clifford (Crocodile), Samara (Squirrel) and Tamatha (Tiger). Guess who Daddy Dentist is!

"The main character, Samatha Squirrel, did not brush her teeth after eating and when she went out to play, Rebecca Rabbit said to her "Your teeth look dirty and your mouth smells." Samara felt bad and went home to sleep—without brushing her teeth then or upon awakening and eating breakfast.

"That next day Bradford Beaver’s daddy, who was a dentist, came to their school and taught the children about oral hygiene techniques. He gave the children disclosing tablets to chew, which showed up red on their teeth where they had not brushed. He then gave each of the students a toothbrush and some toothpaste, and showed them how to brush using a giant toothbrush on a huge plastic mouth.

"The children then brushed their teeth at individual sinks. Afterwards he showed them how to use dental floss, too. Samara Squirrel brushed her teeth so thoroughly that she no longer had anymore red stain on them! The story ends with Samara taking good care f her teeth, eating better foods and being more popular with her classmates. As Teacher Turtle says: ‘Your smile is the most important sign of friendship you have.’

"This original book was illustrated by a patient of mine, Richard Kushner, who was an artist. Another patient of mine, an actor named Joseph Sirola (noted for the Wendy and Boar’s Head voiceovers) agreed to supply the voices for a DVD of our book for the NYC Board if Education.

"I sent a copy of the DVD to the America Dental Association and they awarded us a $5,000 grant to create a book version of it for challenged children. My wife Jacqueline, along with our daughter Samara created a velcro, interactive book for use by the children. The creation of an interactive book for children with speech deficits was considered very innovative at that time. About five dozen of these were hand-crafted, which was a very laborious task.

"We then went out to various public schools with Special-Education classes. We showed the DVD to them, and gave them a copy along with copies of the interactive Velcro books for use in their classrooms. I still have one copy left of the original Velcro book, which uses Meyer-Johnson symbols. If anyone is interested in perusing it, please contact me and I will show it to you."

LOVE IN ACTION (LIA) THANKS:

Harold Sussman for sharing with us his story about a little squirrel who had a lot to learn about caring for her beautiful teeth—and ended up helping Special-Education youngsters in NY Public schools also learn about oral hygiene. Harold was born in Manhattan, attended City College of NY for his BS in Biology and Chemistry, then earned his DDS in dentistry from Columbia U. After a stint in the Navy (stationed in Norfolk, VA and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba) he got his MSD in periodontics at NYU. He then taught in NYU for 23 years and Columbia U. for 7 seven years—and he still travels to lecture, etc.

 education. She was in the Peace Corps for 2-and-a-half years, serving in Liberia. She met Harold through her cousin (who was a summer-camp counselor along with her). The couple lived near Washington Sq. in Greenwich Village, then in a Brooklyn brownstone, then Scarsdale (Westchester) NY. They have four children and are also proud grandparents and great-grandparents. Now, unfortunately, Jackie has severe rheumatoid arthritis. She is a profile in courage, battling the constant, unbearable pain by exercising at least six hours a day: swimming, biking, walking several miles per day (on softer, grassy surfaces when possible), and working out in the gym. Harold also walks their dog Dolly, swims and bikes. "The Secret to a Happy Marriage" says he, "is COMPROMISE." Without it, he explains, no union will last. Good advice from one who knows what it takes, with 52 years together and counting…

Harold and granddaughter Cora (visiting this week from Maryland) hold the book which inspired the DVD, and the interactive book made by Samara Sussman for the Special-Education students in the NY public school system.

Jackie has been a lifelong artist and their home is filled with her creativity. Hubby Harold caught the spirit with creative art projects of his own (such as carving decorative walking sticks, shown in photo). Here he and Jackie display their award ribbons from this year's S. Florida Fair competitions—where they won best-in-show in more than one category.

(7-29-21)

The Book of Proverbs has always been a favorite of mine. What’s not to like about consolidated wisdom, insightful observations, practical suggestions and divine inspiration—with a little humor thrown in, to boot? If you’d like to read it for the first or umpteenth time, the month of August is a perfect time to do so. Its 31 chapters are ideal for the 31 days in August. I’ll read along with you. Let’s see if "A chapter-a-day keeps stupidity at bay!" After all, it’s wisdom from King Solomon himself! And at this stage in my life I’m ready to see things through new and deeper perspectives.

I have already thrown caution to the wind and let my hair go gray during the pandemic. What do you think of my new column-head-shot? I know… it’s a change that will take some getting used to. But I’m in good company: Rabbi Gelman of the God Squad recently updated the photo on his syndicated column, which appears weekly in the Palm Beach Post. I miss the younger rendition of this great man, but I admire more than ever the man I see him as now.

At this stage in my life I need to slow down and listen to some of those cute little ditties and sayings we grew up with (such as "A stitch in time saves nine" and ‘Beauty is as beauty does" etc.). It seems there was an apropos saying for every occasion—great reminders that we’re not alone. Many have trod where we are now treading and this is what they gleaned from their everyday experiences. Ben Franklin is a good source of helpful sayings ("Early to bed and early to rise, make a man healthy, wealthy and wise") and Shakespeare gifted the world with countless quotes cloaked in gorgeous Elizabethan language ("Striving to better, oft we mar what is well," a favorite of mine.)

Also during the COVID I learned passages by heart from each of the 66 Books in the Judeo-Christian Scriptures. The one from Proverbs is "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths." I look forward to facilitating a group of Scripture Searchers (sponsored by my charitable non-profit, Open Doors an Amazing Grace Foundation) to join me in 2022 as we walk through each of the 66 Books that comprise the Greatest Love Letter Ever Written—from the One who loves us so. But before I have time to do that, I must simplify, declutter and "slow down to catch up" as my dear friend Batya often advises. During August I will concentrate on getting rid of the backlog of important to-dos that so easily get pushed aside by the multitude of small but urgent things that crop up constantly and often unexpectedly. I must get out of the middle of things and be content to do just those things that the Lord leads me to do. Like Solomon when the Lord asked what he would like, I too ask for discernment so I know when to lead and when to follow, what to do and what not to do.

For now, I will follow a simple a-b-c that comes to mind. A: Appreciate who I am, where I am and what I have, as well as who others are as we experience life together on a worldwide level never before possible. B: Believe… in a Creator who is omnipotent and omnipresent; in myself and in others as uniquely-created persons so fearfully and wonderfully made—and dearly loved. C: Celebrate the goodness, the blessings and the miracles that are ours when we open our hearts to them.

We just had the most wonderful Love in Action (LIA) Gathering! We so appreciated being able to socialize without masks and to see that winning smile of the talented young man who entertained us (and whose story is told in the photos that accompany this article.) We also appreciate the many good people in our village who before, during and after the COVID restrictions, have helped LIA to make good things happen both here in GLV and beyond. These were possible because we believed in the LIA vision and in each other, and together we made a positive difference in our own lives as well as in others’.

Finally, we love to celebrate and will continue to do so because of the many blessings we have received, shared and freely given. Two of my Dad’s favorite sayings were "Don’t worry, the Lord will provide" and "You can’t out-give the Lord—He has a bigger shovel (to shovel more blessings your way.)" In the famous words of Tiny Tim in Dickens’ "A Christmas Carol," we leave you with this prayer: GOD BLESS US EVERY ONE!

Photos courtesy of Love in Action unless otherwise noted:

In March of 2017 Yvonne and her 8-year-old friend, Jacqueline King (right), joined Ruth and her 7-year-old granddaughter Jessica for a fun time in downtown WPB, eating in the "dining car" at the Mellow Mushroom. By fall 2017 Jacqueline was receiving chemotherapy for leukemia.

In November of 2017 Ruth and Hugo celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary as a benefit for the King family and for POST (the Pediatric Oncology Support Team) that was helping the family as Jacqueline (center-right) fought the cancer.

Photo by Jimmy Shirley

LIA member Bill Jackowski and his friends from American Legion Post #367 fell in love with Jacqueline and supported her throughout her ordeal.

At our July 13th Gathering this past month Christopher, invited by family friend Yvonne, entertained us once again, in celebration of his sister’s full recovery and his amazing mastery of the piano.

Photo by Jimmy Shirley

His mom, Marlene, took off from work to surprise and attend, too. He started playing at age four and since age seven has been church pianist. Now, at age 16, he is entering his junior year at the Sun Coast High School as a computer science major.

Photo by Jimmy Shirley

Christopher with 

POST Natalie Cremean.

Photo by Jimmy Shirley

When asked what charity Love in Action should donate to in his honor, Christopher immediately chose POST, the Pediatric Oncology Support Team that helped his family so much. Special guest from POST Natalie Cremeans, pictured above with Christopher, accepted the LIA check presented by Christopher and thanks us for supporting their good work. During the pandemic they found new ways to help families of kids with cancer: delivering over 3,000 hot meals, drive-through holiday parties and so much more. She also thanks Condo News for running ads in each issue to get the word out about what their non-profit does: helping local families courageously fight childhood cancer by offering compassionate emotional and financial support.

Today Jacqueline (above) is a healthy, happy cancer survivor! Because of hospital stays and strong doses of chemo she lost a year of school (grade 4). Although chemo is known to affect the brain’s 

ability to learn, Jaci was not only able to pass the year-end tests for grades 4, 5 and 6 but received recognition from Duke U. for earning such high grades in so doing. Most recently, she studied on her own to take the 7th grade test a year ahead and scored 100 on it enabling her to skip grade 7 and enter this school year as an 8th grader! school honors classes completed. (Hearty congrats to her, too.)

Says mom Marlene: "Our family is thriving.Our faith and love for each other carries us through life’s obstacles." The family thanks the many people who have been a part of their heartwarming story! And that includes Condo News, LIA, GLV and American Legion Post #36, especially the late beloved Bill Jackowski.

(7-15-21)

It’s time for Love in Action (LIA) to take a restful, relaxing, reflective, restorative respite! And it starts this week with a special "Appreciation Gathering." Instead of our usual informative speaker and old/new LIA business, we’ll have music, gratitude, joy and camaraderie on the agenda. The presenter of honor will be our teenage friend and gifted pianist, Christopher King. He entertained us at LIA’s 2018 Christmas-in-July party for families of kids with cancer when his sister Jacqueline had leukemia. The good news is that she is now free of cancer and brother Christopher has continued with his mastery of the piano. The concert is dedicated to his sister and will benefit POST (the Pediatric Oncology Support Team), a non-profit organization that helped his family so much during that time of need.

We’ll have tables instead of chairs-only to create an elegant nightclub ambience, and after the concert we’ll enjoy getting to know each other better as we’re treated to a super spread of snacks served by the Leadership Team. An open mic will invite folks to share talents and words of inspiration & appreciation. We’re encouraging all friends, members and readers to join us during the rest of July and throughout August in being still, pondering our best and highest thoughts and counting our blessings. I have already started doing this as I write this column.

Gratitude wells up in my heart as I recall myself as a pre-schooler wanting so much to write that I took a sheet of an older sibling’s lined paper and drew a long, wavy line in each space, then held it at arms length to admire my "story." As a fifth- and sixth-grader I lapped up our English teacher’s creative assignments, like writing limericks and stories with lots of imagination (such as from the viewpoint of an inanimate object). In junior and senior high school I’d write stories and poems about other blessings in my life, thereby expressing my appreciation of them. I’ve written about faith, cats, kids and here is a favorite called…

Music, oh music! What would I do if my life didn’t revolve around you?

Band 7th period, 4 days out of 5; two nights a week I’m hep to the jive—

The Jazz Band rehearses "September in the Rain,"

followed by "Stardust" and then "Night Train."

Wednesday afternoon 2:30-3: the orchestra meets and that includes me.

Evening rehearsals again and again Tuesday and Thursday 7:30-10:.

During football season we march till we’re lame 

in preparation for Saturday’s game

Pep assemblies, of course, are right up our alley, 

so we’re ready to play for the Hackensack rally.

Tours, concerts, programs and such

keep us away from homework too much.

Teachers give zeroes for homework undone,

but who gives a hoot—we have lots of fun!

I kept diaries for years starting at about age 12—unfortunately I haven’t kept them in the other sense so I can’t enjoy them now. But the daily writing practice over the years has given me a priceless payback in self-expression through the written word. As an elementary teacher I’d write or adapt plays for the kids to perform, including a school-closing tribute with all classes taking part. For seventeen years I led the kids choir at church and wrote annual shows for them to perform. Somehow music and inspiration were always an important part of any of my productions.

In hindsight I’m so thankful that I grew up in a faith-filled family and have a husband who always encourages me to follow my passions. Thanks to Hugo I wrote my first book, further encouraged by a year’s sabbatical at half-pay from my school to write it. It was published by Parker, a subsidiary of Prentice Hall.

Hugo is also a writer and still edits my work. He had two business books published by a German company, and in later years we self-published our own books and booklets. Now, here I am, 77 years old and still writing. In fact, I have what every writer dreams of—a column in which to write from the heart, which is exactly what I’ve had these past five years, thanks to the great folks at Condo News. Every two weeks I’m reminded of important truths, such as: it’s never too late or too early to pursue interests and utilize talents, joy follows gratitude rather than vice versa, and there’s so much good in the world and in people if we just look a little closer. The great love, support and inspiration that GLV and LIA give me on regular basis is beyond words—even loquacious me/myself/I cannot express the depth of meaning these dear folks give to my life. Here, for example, is an inspiring story shared by Barbara Stein, friend and LIA member:

"The only bird that dares to peck an eagle is the crow. The crow sits on the eagle’s back and bites his neck. The eagle does not respond, nor fight with the crow; he does not spend his energy on the crow. Instead, He just opens his wings and begins to rise higher in the heavens. The higher the flight the harder it is for the crow to breathe and eventually the crow fall off due to a lack of oxygen.

"Learn from the eagle and don’t fight the crows, just keep ascending. They might be along for the ride but they’ll soon fall off. Do not allow yourself to succumb to the distractions… keep your focus on the things above and continue rising!"

Meaning different things to different people:

For Ruth, it’s REMEMBERING her lifelong love of writing, her happy childhood and those who lifted her along the way. This early poem (at age 9-photo below) was written spontaneously upon request by her Aunt Margaret and Uncle Bill:

"I WONDER" by Bam (Ruth’s nickname) Olnowich

Always when I look up high

 I wonder what is in the sky,

It could be a planet 

or it could be a moon

and I’m still looking up 

when it comes afternoon.

I’m still looking up 

when I hear my mother call

Hurry up in! 

There’s going to be a rain fall

I asked my mother 

what’s that in the sky

Hurry up in! 

You’ll get a drop in your eye.

For Vincent (our master artist, storyteller and writer of previous LiA columns) it’s RECUPERATING in the Luxe Rehab Center, due to a recent accident. He expects to be back home soon and thanks for our prayers.

For Candi it's REMINISCING and dancing with her 96-year-old dad on Father’s Day at a phase A dinner 

& show event.

For Jean it’s REJOICING that Phase B renovated the dilapidated old bench (that was replaced by LIA’s new red bench) and moved it into his neighborhood, just as he had requested.

For sisters Pat and Carmen it’s RE-PURPOSING their adult trike by donating it to LIA so a needy GLV resident can enjoy it.

For Arlyne and David it’s REACHING OUT as part of a team that gets donated food to those villagers who most need it.

For Jeri it's RECEIVING many "Thank-You’s" for introducing her acupuncturist, Dr. David Schnitzer, at an LIA Gathering. He explained how his own quest for health led 

him to holistic, natural approaches. 

He led us in trying some qigong exercises for posture, movement and breathing, then spoke on how acupuncture can improve 

our quality of life.

For Barbara, it’s RIDING 

her bicycle around the village 

and helping people as she can. 

It’s she who contributed the 

"Lesson of the Eagle and the Crow" story, the concluding highlight of the LIA column.

For Doreen it's READING and RETURNING thoughts in sign language. Here she and Ruth's grandson, Dionisio, communicate via sign language.

Meet our Guest Columnist, Vincent Daddiego

Vincent "hit he ground running" five years ago when he moved from NY to Golden Lakes Village. He enjoys playing pool with his buddies, painting and creating works of art in his upstairs-unit studio, walking and exercising, and taking part in dramatic and musical groups in the village. He has also taught many art classes, organized art shows, and led a discussion group on the topic of the great movie classics.

Our beloved artist and storyteller, Vincent Daddiego, points to the palm tree in his painting of Morocco. Read his column to find out why…

(7-1-21)

There is not enough space in this newspaper to recount even a partial list of the shameful, brutal events that the world has suffered through during the past year and a half. Just trust your eyes and ears, and fasten them to your TV screen—which is what most people are doing for most of their day.

Television: Our highway to reality and unreality; and our side road to an endless stream of television commercials each and every day—and relentlessly during the nights as well. With our world in turmoil, there is one facet of our daily lives that is as sure as the Rock of Gibraltar—television commercials. No matter what catastrophe is taking place it is unfailingly certain to be followed by commercials.

You may recall it happening during the tragedy of 9-11. More recently, TV commercials quickly followed events like mass shootings, mass riots and the January storming of the United States Capitol. Well, what’s more important—learning about such events or knowing what’s available as toppings for you favorite pizza?

Of course, if you get your news from commercial-free TV channels or on an electronic device of one kind or another, you are spared the incessant TV advertising.

Another thought: presently, over 65 percent of commercials advertise some form of medically-related products for acne, diabetes, diarrhea, prostate, and post-nasal drip. And, we are all enticed into believing they work.

By way of example, we’ll see a person with COPD, barely able to breathe, and a moment later, he or she is preparing for the Boston Marathon. So force yourself to stay tuned to those commercials–and hide your zapper in the microwave!

As a teenager growing up on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, it was my custom—more often than not—to take a leisurely, solitary stroll through the captivating quiet canyons of the Wall Street area. And quiet it was, since the walks always followed my attendance at church on Sunday morning.

My love of great architecture was fully quenched by street after street of marvelous buildings, most of them erected In the late 1800’s and 1930’s. The Municipal Building, the exquisite Woolworth Building, Foley Square that appeared to me as a flawless replica of the Roman Forum. These countless marble and stone wonders are mostly gone, wantonly replaced with monstrosities of flat steel and glass.

My special attention to these stone and marble monuments always focused on the tops of these buildings which revealed intricate designs, scroll work and often rows of Angels!

When I relocated from New York to Golden Lakes five years ago, my memory carried visions of my buildings, and reality offered me… palm trees.

Yes, I have always had a special, life-long affection for palm trees, indulging that affection on various trips to Florida, the Keys, the islands of the Caribbean, and finally right here in our own backyard.

My Google tells me that there are close to 2600 varieties of palm trees right here in Florida. If I knew a botanist, he or she could rattle off their Latin-scientific names, and give you chapter and verse.

When you’re out for a walk, look up at these soft and mellow beauties that surround us. Scan the tops of these trees. Tell them how you’re feeling. Ask them how THEY are feeling. Touch their trunks (No one will try to have you institutionalized, I promise.) And remember, when most of the trees of the North are naked and cold, we have our palm trees—all 2600 varieties of them.

So promise yourself to look up at the palms. Perhaps you may even see an angel or two… or three.

OUR JUNE 25TH OUTDOOR SPRING-FLING FLEA MARKET

There were twenty-three tables of treasures (LIA’s, GLV Temple’s and individual vendors'), a snack table, and more. Great weather, priceless camaraderie and a good time was had by all!

Vincent displayed his "Turn Over a New Leaf" art pieces (aka designer grape leaves), "Time to Come out of your Shell" with cartoon Shelly inside, "Pick Me Up Pods"—upcycled poinciana pods—and orchid-tree squiggles. All are made from Nature’s discards here our village.

REBECCA enjoyed Mr. Balloon Man, John Watkins, who kept her laughing as he made an adorable doggie balloon just for her. A line of kids waited patiently to talk with him. Parents and grandparents had a blast, too, as he made a special balloon masterpiece for each child. John also donated large balloon sculptures for the event

LIAer, Batya, took part in the event by preparing a "Save the Manatee" donation table. Using the materials from our adopted manatee, she laid out the info and painted the backgrounds for both the sick manatee (to the left of the poster) and the healthy, happy one (to the right side). This on-going project will provide gift certificates to schools, churches, boy & girl clubs/scouts, etc. to bring attention to the manatees’ plight and encourage people, especially the new generation, to team up and help them.

Above are some of those who helped to make the event such a success.

Willi, Ruth and Marilyn transported LIA's unsold merchandise to the nearby Hospice Thrift Shop on Okeechobee Blvd. Other remaining treasures also found happy homes locally through St. Ann Place’s outreach to the homeless and needy, and to Resource Depot (www.resourcedepot.com). The GLV Temple donated its unsold items to a veterans group.

Photo at left:LIA Member Monika Dietlin, earned her United States citizenship last month. She was born in Switzerland, where she was educated, married and raised her family. After her husband died, in 2015, she came to the US to be near her son and family, and chose Golden Lakes because of its proximity to Grace Fellowship Church and the Berean School (which her grandchildren were attending). She has worked long and hard learning English and preparing for her citizenship test, which she passed with flying colors. She is a super-energetic and big-hearted villager, and can be seen riding her motorized trike, swimming early in the morning, walking a dog, taking Phase A exercise classes, baking and sharing tasty European recipes, dancing endlessly at village events and playing drums in the GLV Players concerts under the direction of Marlene Shane. "I miss my son and family, who now live in Chicago, and my two daughters still in Switzerland," says Monika, "but the music, drumming and great friends keep me smiling!" Photo at right: Monika, Samantha (Sammy) and David riding around the village delivering goodies and watching for ways to help others.

Meet our Guest Columnist, CS Stern

CS’s expertise, experience and example in the field of health fits right in with the philosophy of Love In Action (LIA): to be our best and give our best as we journey through life together. It’s also in line with the most recent speakers at our monthly Gatherings. In May Dr. Schnitzer, acupuncturist, spoke about natural approaches to health; and this month Devin from Conviva spoke on how to understand the ingredient information on packaged foods so we can purchase and eat healthier.

CS and Alice, married 73 years, have a flair for life that’s as amazing as it is contagious. They do almost everything as a couple and often dress to complement each other, as shown in the pre-COVID photograph (above left) and as boy-and-girl scouts (above right) during last October’s Phase B Halloween party.

(6-17-21)

Growing up, I was the youngest in my family and I considered everybody around me to be "old folks." I observed many of them and their friends complaining about stomachaches, headaches, rashes, fevers, and other health challenges. Being a curious person and not wanting to become like them, I wondered how I could prevent some of those things from happening to me.

In the early 1970s I came across a small booklet about weight loss. It presented information on how to get and stay healthy through exercise and a proper diet of mostly plant-based foods. It made a lot of sense to me, so my wife, Alice, and I followed that advice, and even bought lifetime memberships to Bally's Health Spas. We got pretty religious about using their facilities, and our energy levels and general health benefitted substantially.

The "health bug" affected me enough that I walked easily the one- mile-plus to and from work, five days each week for about three years.

In 1982 we moved to Tampa, walked every day, and maintained pretty much the same food choices. In 1987 we attended classes on good health practices taught by Susan Stockton, who authored a few health-related books—and we both still have diplomas certifying our completion of her course.

In 1996, Alice and I attended a three-week natural-health program at the Hippocrates Health Institute. It featured daily exercises, organic foods only, no television, no newspapers, no alcohol, no tobacco, no fried foods, no animal foods, and no cooked foods except for soup one day weekly. I sincerely believe the experience was well worth the expense because it further enhanced our ability to protect our health.

After completing the program, we moved to Golden Lakes Village, conveniently located right next door to the Health Institute. We soon volunteered to pick up newly arriving and departing Hippocrates guests. We also gave occasional talks, and attended several lectures that were complimentary to us as volunteers. Of course, we learned even more about natural health during our volunteer work.

At Golden Lakes, a 55+ community, I observed many residents afflicted with poor health. I believed that with increased knowledge and better lifestyle choices they could improve their health and even prevent some illnesses. So I volunteered to write a monthly column for the village newsletter/magazine entitled "Help Yourself To Better Health." It was a challenge which required ongoing research to be accurate, and to never offend or cause harm. My only wish was to help folks to learn some positive ways to benefit, so I created 111 monthly columns, each about one full page and sometimes a little more in length.

For over nine years, my column was quite popular, and I received many positive compliments. People rarely share their personal health matters with anyone other than their doctors, so I can't evaluate the overall results of my efforts. I do, however, feel gratified that many of my readers got the opportunity to "Help Themselves to Better Health" and utilized that knowledge beneficially.

Of course, we don’t now live the extreme practices we were engaged in during the 3-week course at Hippocrates, but we and our family do incorporate many of the wonderful health-enhancing and health-protecting benefits we learned there. Alice and I are careful about our food purchases, and almost never miss eating a large daily salad containing a variety of fresh veggies. We are careful about our health, drink lots of fresh clean water, and exercise vigorously and often. We are very careful to examine the content labels on all packaged foods; many contain health-damaging substances. We minimize sugars and animal fats such as cow's milk, cheese, etc. Hippocrates guests are generally there to get rid of serious ailments mainly by eliminating intake of all health-negative "foods" and other health-harming practices, while adding highly healthful foods and activities. I sincerely believe the closer folks anywhere can practice that lifestyle, the healthier they will become.

So, how is our health now compared to most people? Well, I am 95 years old and Alice is 94. Both of us are very healthy, and dance vigorously whenever we hear suitable music. We laugh heartily each and every day, and exercise far more than most younger folks. We visit our doctor twice a year and he keeps saying: "I'm not sure how you do it, but just keep doing what you're doing!" Neither of us have any chronic health problems. Our blood and urinalysis lab tests have never been outside normal ranges. We never have headaches, use no prescription drugs, and are very much in love with each other. We are both a little underweight and our number one challenge is needing cushions to sit on because of our bony butts!

We have no doubt that regular good health practices really pay off. We very highly recommend it to everyone. It's not that hard to accomplish.

It's too bad that even though most doctors tell their patients to eat a healthy (most plant based) diet, drink plenty of water, and get enough exercise many of us ignore his/her expert (and expensive) advice.

Please, everybody, help yourself get and stay healthier. Life is fun ... when you feel good!

DANCE, DANCE, DANCE: 

NOW A MONTHLY HIT IN PHASE A

"Dance, Dance, Dance" event, socializing and "tripping the light fantastic!" (an old expression meaning to dance nimbly and lightly. It has its roots in the poem L'Allegro written by John Milton: "Come, and trip it as you go / On the light fantastic toe." In this case, the word trip means to dance nimbly and the word fantastic means extremely fancy.

Left to right: Tony, Judy, Michael, Andrew, Karen (featured in our previous column, instructor of the GLV Line Dancers, hosting this event), Russ and Lisa.

Nellie and Toni (seated) celebrated their June birthdays with friends Maggie and Janis (standing)

Theresa and husband

Virginia and Harry

And here they are:

Alice and CS !

FATHER’S DAY CELEBRATION

Let’s join together in getting "in tune with June!" And how we do that? By enlarging the boundaries that have hemmed us in for so long. With the CDC restrictions eased it’s the perfect time to:

Get out of our shells and turn over a new leaf. During the COVID our master artist Vincent encouraged us to do just that with his uniquely– and colorfully-painted shells and leaves (just a few left at $10 each). And in tune with June he’s once again offering his free art class on Mondays at 2:30 in the Phase B Multi-Purpose Room. Everyone is welcome, both residents and friends.

Be sure to thank those who kept things going throughout the COVID. In our village it’s been our two highly-regarded social directors, Gina and Silvia. We enjoyed take-out meals, breezeway events, limited exercise classes and poolside activities. Today, Memorial Day, both phases are having full indoor events!

Love in Action (LIA) kept things going with its Angel Network, helping to get food and meds to those stuck at home, praying for those requesting it, providing home-cooked meals to residents in need, and keeping people informed via our monthly email blasts. The "tuning for June" got an early start with full LIA Gatherings starting in March and large all-village charitable events in May (Walkathon and Cereal Drive for children in need.).

A very special individual who comes to both mind and heart for keeping us happy and healthy before, during and after the lock-down is our featured writer for this issue, KAREN MASSINELLO. Here is:

"I moved to Florida from Westchester County, NY, 50 years ago at age sixteen. I finished high school and college here, so I consider myself a Florida girl and love living in the Sunshine State. I worked as a licensed Lab Technician for over 30 years, then during Hurricane Wilma I studied and obtained my real estate license which led to the opening of my own company, Massinello Realty, LLC, which I am presently running.

"My truest love, however, has always been dancing. My parents were terrific dancers and, while growing up, my whole family loved to dance. I trained with Arthur Murray in Pompano for six months in my early 20’s but due to a broken ankle I had to quit. Though I did not return to the class, I never forgot what I learned there about dancing. Ten years ago, after a divorce, I finally rekindled my love of dancing and after several years of training I began teaching beginner’s Ballroom and Latin Dancing at two high schools here in Palm Beach County through the Adult Education program.

"Trying to bring Ballroom and Latin Dancing to Golden Lakes Village (GLV) presented some challenges, so I decided to start a Line Dance class since it requires no partners or experience. And just an hour a week of fun-filled music and movement pays big dividends to participants in terms of both health and happiness.

"‘The Line Dancers of GLV’ started off slowly, but as word got around and people saw our group dancing together at various village events, interest grew—and so did the class size! What makes me the proudest about this class are the friendships that began to form among the students who might never have met if not for their common love of dance. The camaraderie grew so fast among the class, it did not matter, age, race, religion, experience—only the new friendships that were being made. We laughed together, we cried together, we mourned together, and we helped one another as our new family grew.

"Not only do we love to dance together, but we also enjoy performing. We have performed several showcase dances as a group and were invited to dance at a nursing home in Wellington during the holidays before COVID. We featured Tony and Lisa (father & daughter) in our Waltz showcase—boy, how I wish I could have done that with my dad!

"During COVID, when everything was locked down, we continued to dance each week outside in the parking lot of the Phase A clubhouse, six feet apart until the heat became too much and we were allowed back in the auditorium under CDC guidelines, but we never stopped dancing!

"I am so proud of these people who have truly become my family. I volunteer my time to teach this class but the gift I’ve gotten back from them all is far greater than any monetary payment I could have ever received."

And here are a few comments from her dancers:

Sharon: I have been a member of Karen’s line dancing class for the past few years. I look forward to Monday nights and the opportunity to dance with all the amazing people who attend the class. We became great friends who danced through the tough COVID times, able to forget about what was going on in the world for at least one hour a week.

Judy H: Dancing is so therapeutic and has increased my confidence both on the dance floor as well as in other areas of my life (social and work). I love Karen and my dance family and I am extremely thankful for them all! Line dancing keeps us young and flexible. I am so glad we have it here at GLV.

Kim: Karen teaches line dancing in our community every Monday night. She does not get paid for teaching, she loves to dance and wants to share the joy of dancing with others. I have been going to line dancing for the past three years. It’s great exercise and makes me smile. I have met wonderful friends through line dancing and am very grateful for this activity.

Lisa: Having Karen teach our villagers line dancing with such patience and grace has fostered a great camaraderie among the dancers. She has brought a terrific group of people together through dance. I would never had made as many friends through line dancing if not for Karen.

Judy D.: I have been coming to GLV Line Dance group for a few years. The line dance group got me doing something that I have always loved, dancing. I have made wonderful friends that I might not have met if I had not taken the class. I love the class, the dances, and all the dancers. Karen is an excellent instructor. She and some of the other dancers (Kim and Sharon) have helped me master the dance steps. I still make mistakes, but I can laugh at myself and keep on dancing. Dancing is good for my soul. It’s a fun cardio that I never get tired of. I’m so grateful for the class and my dance family. Happy dancing!

Love in Action Thanks: 

Karen Massinello, Our Featured Writer

Karen has lived in Golden Lakes for nine years, is a highly-respected GLV real estate broker and is renowned for bringing line dancing to the village. She is also bowls with the GLV bowlers, is on the Phase A Social Activities Committee and a member of the full-village Woman’s Club and Love in Action. Her big-hearted company sponsored the veterans’ meals for the Phase A Memorial Day event. Read her story in this issue to learn more about her and the line dancing group.

On Saturday, June 12th, the Line Dancers will sponsor their third event to showcase the joy of getting out on the dance floor and just moving to the beat! At the first one (before COVID) Karen and her professional dance partner Damien Maloney demonstrated the waltz, the quick-step, the foxtrot and the pasodoble. She has competed in a number of pro+amateur dance contests over the years. The $5 GLV dance events include DJ music, bring-your-own edibles and a relaxing evening of fun with other dance aficionados. Read the accompanying column to learn more about Karen and the dancers.

Above, BEFORE COVID

DURING COVID

(dancing in the parking lot)

A BIG THANK-YOU ALSO TO:

The 2021 LIA Leadership Team: Dorinda, Kim and Joy.

For the great job they’re doing initiating and overseeing this year's LIA activities. Kim (center) headed the May 23rd "LIA Walkathon 2021" which benefits special-needs kids. All three women are active in cooking meals for, and distributing food to, GLV residents as needed—and they are busy making a variety of other good things happen both in our village and beyond.