May Runner May 2021
“Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May, And summer’s lease hath all too short a date.” ~ William Shakespeare
Animal of the Month – Ferret Special Days Ferrets are small, carnivorous mammals that have brown, May Day white, and/or black fur, small May 1 ears, a mask-like darker area across the eyes, and longtails. Cinco de Mayo They typically weigh between May 5 one and a half to four and a Mother’s Day half pounds. Pet ferrets are domesticated polecats. There May 9 are also wild ferrets, such as were kept by ancient Egyptians. Armed Forces Day the black-footed ferret native Male ferrets are quite a bit bigger (U.S.) to North America, which is on than female ferrets. These furry, May 15 the endangered species list. inquisitive creatures are native to many places across the world, Victoria Day (Canada) The highly social ferret has including North America and May 24 become a very popular pet, Europe. Because they are social with several million now living and affectionate creatures, it is Memorial Day (U.S.) in homes acrossAmerica. recommended to keep them in May 31 Ferrets were domesticated pairs or in a small group.Ignored around 2,500 years ago and pet ferrets can die of loneliness.
Flower – Lily of the Valley Birthstone – Emerald The flower for the month of May is The verdant emerald is the the lily of the valley. It is prized for its birthstone for May and the sweet fragrance—once considered anniversary gemstone for the so precious that water laced with its 20th anniversary of marriage. essential oils was stored in gold and The ancient Romans associated silver containers. It’s a common folk this brilliant green stone with belief that the scent of this inedible fertility and rebirth. They dedicated the gem to flower in the spring air is the signal for Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. Even nightingales to begin their seasonal today, some believe wearing an emerald brings singing and choosing of a mate. Legend has it wisdom, growth, and patience—qualities that King Charles IX of France was given this essential to fulfilling and lasting love. Emeralds flower on May 1, 1561. He reportedly then gave are found in the Middle East and South America the gift of lilies of the valley to all the ladies of and get their green hue from small amounts of his court each year on May 1. the chemicals chromium and/or vanadium. MARCH RUNNER May 2021 Take a Birthday Bough More Than Tacos
Poplar: May 1–11 they have a well-developed The Mexican holiday of Cincode sense of justice. They make Mayo (May 5) commemorates Those who fell from the poplar great friends who are often Mexico’s victory over French tree have a very artistic nature turned to for sound advice and forces in the 1862 Battle of and loving heart. They are a shoulder to cry on. They can Pueblo. Napoleon III’s army good organizers and like their usually be trusted with a secret. had come to Mexican shores surroundings to be neat and to recover unpaid war debts, clean—but also enjoy indulging Ash: May 24–31 but instead they were soundly their creative side. They’re defeated. deep thinkers, fascinated by People who sprung from the psychology while also able to ash tree are vivacious, fun-loving, keep the big picture in mind. spontaneous, and carefree. In May Zodiacs relationships, they often use Chestnut: May 12–23 their brain instead of their heart to Taurus (The Bull) make decisions, but also May 1–20 Those who come from the have a deep appreciation Gemini (The Twins) chestnut tree are extremely for romance. They are May 21–31 faithful partners who often fall ambitious and won’t allow in love only once. Honesty is anything to stand in the very important to them, and way of their goals. May, which has 31 days, gets its name from the Roman goddess of spring and growth, Maia Majesta. In Greek mythology, Maia was the eldest and most beautiful of Atlas’ seven daughters. She was the goddess of spring, warmth, and nursing mothers. Maia was also the mother of Hermes and was loved by Zeus. The goddess adopted Zeus’ son Callisto, who was posthumously sent to the sky to become Ursa Major. This constellation of stars includes the Big Dipper, which to this day shines brightly in the sky on clear May nights. May Day Fun May Birthdays May Day is celebrated on May 1. This secular Dwayne Johnson (actor) – May 2, 1972 holiday goes back to ancient times and is a yearly James Brown (singer) – May 3, 1933 ritual to celebrate the bounty of spring. Typical Audrey Hepburn (actress) – May 4, 1929 festivities include flowers, dancing, and maypoles, Tammy Wynette (singer) – May 5, 1942 which are tall poles decorated with ribbons and Orson Welles (filmmaker) – May 6, 1915 flowers erected for revelers to dance around. Traditionally, wreaths of posies adorn heads Don Rickles (comedian) – May 8, 1926 and bouquets are quietly left on the doorsteps of Rosario Dawson (actress) – May 9, 1979 neighbors and friends as gestures of friendship. Natasha Richardson (actress) – May 11,1963 What’s Lucky in May? Florence Nightingale (nurse) – May 12, 1820 Katharine Hepburn (actress) – May 12, 1907 Lucky Color: Teal Lucky Animal:Dolphin Perry Como (entertainer) – May 18, 1912 Lucky Letter: N Jimmy Stewart (actor) – May 20, 1908 Lucky Day: Sunday Stevie Nicks (singer) – May 26, 1948 Lucky Plant: Hydrangea Clint Eastwood (actor) – May 31, 1930
Page 2 May 2021
5/1 Raymond Andrews 5/16 Judith Cohen 5/1 Stephanie Andrews 5/16 Mary Finnegan 5/1 Elizabeth Ciaccia 5/18 Carlyn Gases 5/2 Elaine Parelman 5/20 Naum Rivkin 5/2 Ruth Paster 5/22 Rose Pitchon 5/3 Helen Barrett 5/23 Irene Lieberman 5/5 Louis Baldwin 5/24 Loretta Katz 5/7 Robert London 5/26 Nancy Auster 5/8 Claire Kessler 5/27 Marie Biedzinski 5/8 Marian Manco 5/27 Selma Eiseman 5/9 Michael Freeman 5/28 Louis Dallago 5/11 Ann Cohn 5/28 Joan Hammond 5/12 Marlene Solimeo 5/29 Katherine Chazotte 5/13 Shirley Smuckler 5/29 Leonard Hoffner 5/14 Beverly Desher 5/29 David Lupin 5/14 Frank Engel 5/31 Mary Freeman 5/14 Joan Lampart 5/31 Harry Schenk 5/15 John Steinkirchner
To residents Joe & Dot Waldowski on their milestone 75th Wedding Anniversary on May 25, 2021
Page 3 EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS EDITION May 2021 Our third and final COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic was held on Sunday, April 11, 2021. It was the Second dose of the vaccine for those who received their first dose on March 21, 2021.
The COVID-19 vaccine is an important step in protecting ourselves and our loved ones. It is just as important to continue to practice physical/social distancing, hand hygiene and wearing a mask.
It is still possible to contact and spread COVID-19 after you’ve been vaccinated, although the chances of being symptomatic are greatly reduced. Re-opening plans for the Dining Room, Transportation, Community Life, Spiritual Life, Laundry and Trash are being developed and we will implement them in a manner that follows safety guidelines. The safety of our residents is our highest priority. A few changes in Community Life and Spiritual Life have already taken place, but for the other re-openings and changes our target is mid May. We will share that information with you as it gets closer to the implementation date.
Now that the weather is warmer, it is a good time to go outside for some fresh air and a change of scenery. There are chairs on the porch and benches throughout the grounds waiting for you.
Sincerely,
William R. Hines Executive Director
Page 4 MUSIC THERAPY NOTES May 2021
Paul’s Run serves as a clinical training site for music therapy students. In the past year we have hosted ten weekly fieldwork students and one full-time music therapy intern. It’s not only a great opportunity for students to hone their clinical skills, it also introduces our community to new ideas and different perspectives. We have hosted students living in Vietnam & China, students that are award winning musicians, and students who are working with older adults for the very first time.
This month I would like to introduce two graduate Drexel music therapy students who will be completing their fieldwork with us virtually on Mondays & Fridays until June: Cindy Silvero Navarro and Rachel Chang.
Cindy Silvero Rachel Chang
Cindy was born in Ascunion, Paraguay and moved to the United State in 2016 to obtain a bachelor’s in violin performance at Emporia State in Kansas. She is fluent in three languages: Spanish, English & Portuguese and is learning Russian and German. She previously completed a fieldwork at Temple Psychiatry – Episcopal Campus.
Page 5 MUSIC THERAPY NOTES May 2021
Rachel has a degree in music and psychology from Skidmore College and is a New York State native. She is a black belt in karate and teaches karate to young children. She previously completed a fieldwork at Royer-Greaves School for the Blind.
I am looking forward to working and sharing our amazing community with them.
As always, I am thinking of each of you. Wear your mask. Wash your hands. Social distance. Stay well. I wish you the best!
Musically, Molly
Page 6 RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES May 2021 A WALK IN THE PARK by Jack Birnbaum
As a walk is part of Rehab that, norm is a daily theme Movement is more than necessary to reach this dream Each day 3meals bring in fuel in support of the scheme A fractured femur left leg, brought me to rehab on this trip The staff applies T.L.C. plus a use of demands to “get a grip” committed to safety, and to a well doing of the given task If this output every day is perfection, not, it’s still a lot to ask Staff does it every day and in every way and this is my way of saying thank you---- You are the best
Leadership and Opportunity by Jack Birnbaum
While many were a part of the revolt it was George Washington’s leadership which in fact led the way In eulogy the father of Robert E Lee, called him first in peace, in War, & hearts of countrymen this day George a 7th son sans wealth lost his father, his step- mother. acquiring land that he managed unto wealth He now a soldier much admired with four bullets in his coat, two horses shot under him, courage and health with revolution in the air, it was no question as to choice In all of America George Washington was a chosen voice
Page 7 RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES May 2021 Leadership and Opportunity continued By Jack Birnbaum
But in war he did wonder if Congress saw them as dupes debating all excepting the funding of his army, the troops George’s contracting governance was the key to change Strong exec sans royal, check & balance was not strange Led to Jefferson’s creed the Declaration of Independence In 1791 the Constitution, freedoms law & its good sense But America was not done with George Washington yet retirement? A need was a first President George, you bet!
For 8 years he molded the presidency and kept the peace Twix Hamilton and Jefferson to doing it in only his way Had no entanglements to France or England in spite of advisers Jefferson, Lafayette, and Jay all of them getting a say Political parties formed in his two terms as the president He was often the people’s agent in this new, political tent His role in America was unique as being the one who can It’s George Washington, and he was the indispensable man ********************************************************* Is that Opportunity knocking at the Door? By Jack Birnbaum
There are instances in a nation’s past life where a solution has been needed and then applied. In fact, such application could cover more than one problem deviling national life, but otherwise could remain unseen re- infecting the body politic at another time and in another place. I am referring to immigration and the surge of unattended immigrant adults and children at our Southern border in contrast with the 1933 great depression and a program entitled the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC).
Page 8 RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES May 2021 Is that Opportunity Knocking at the Door? Continued By Jack Birnbaum The great depression fostered a surge of 38% to the unemployment figures at a time when the infrastructure needed upgrading and its being a disruption of all things including financial, learning programs, the supervision of children at home as well as with family life President F.D. R .IN 1933 said, “I propose to create the CCC to be used in complex work not interfering with normal employment and confining itself to forestry, the prevention of soil erosion, flood control and similar projects. I call your attention to this kind of work is of definite, practical value not only through the prevention of great present financial loss but also as a means of creating future national wealth”. The CCC operated for 30 years and served some 300,000 persons mostly unemployed men and boys who worked in camps on public land near a conservation site. The program where camps served as temporary communities with barracks for housing (family, ind.), food facilities, schools, recreation, and of course extensive vocational training. It even included CCC groups who were chronically under employed because of race, language or ethnicity and was rated as one of the most successful programs that emerged from the great depression. It was of course, much easier on the eye than a 30-foot wall and more promising when dealing with today’s global warming issues and at the same time helped moving our nation from a crisis and then unto new levels of prosperity
Page 9 RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES May 2021 About Destiny by Jack Birnbaum
Life and living surround you, pointing out dimensions perceived, understanding it as a part of fate and destiny Having finished a poem about Lincolns assassination, I picked a book at random, one unbeknownst to me Its title “Lincoln and the abolitionists,” about slavery in our Union and addressing a great anomaly in our history
George Washington’s final address was a guide to future To presidents he left 6 pillars of wisdom to help run a nation One pillar is to beware of partisans who see only one side of an issue which can often only worsen a dire situation.
Thomas Jefferson, a slave owner, wrote the Declaration of human rights that added to this new and expanding nation As Fred Kaplan the author noted the slave states unified by need, not necessarily fidelity, into the union as an association A second Washington pillar called for unity as a strength of a democracy an element which helped us a nation in staying free Unity is however, is not an element used for a single goal it’s a mechanism for sharing of those ends where mostly all agree
A house divided cannot stand, nor union cleaved without unity but if it’s built with sand without concrete and/or rock will it stand? So, a nation of slavers fight only for slavery not for a union band value of unity a respect for each man a miss; War was now at hand
Page 10 RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES May 2021 About Destiny continued By Jack Birnbaum
The richness and beauty that was America must have evoked awe from those who saw her with a dawns early first sight As with any suitor that first sight gave life to a wish to possess and hold her to our bosom, oh so tight It was true in the 1920’s as my parents crossed the ocean so my sister and I were added to this citizenship scheme in the1500’s black Africans, the indentured, prisoners became slaves’ part and parcel of the white man’s dream
The destiny of those decisions began to take hold during the 1770’s British war debts incurred had to be paid The war debts (Spain-France) Parliament ordered taxes (tea-stamps) collectors harried with continuous delays Parliament after a delay repealed the stamp act Feb.1766. Dec, 16,1773 100 men clad as Indians in protest of the tea tax threw 90,000 pounds of Indian tea into Boston’s harbor
As a response to the onerous taxes, then each side escalated events and with organized hostility amidst rising rancor The Four principals in these disputes were: a) The Continental Congress Selected by the 13 colonies as their official voice in the disputes b) The Parliament, the combined legislatures (Commons, Lords) along with the king, issuers of statutes c) The conciliators individuals or groups, either English or colonists, advocating continuation of the empire d) The king who expected fealty and now demanded pelf
Page 11 RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES May 2021 About Destiny continued By Jack Birnbaum
Hostile events of the next 3 & ½ years continued and with more violence taking place
Oct. 14,1774-Congress adopts a declaration of rights and grievances against the British State
Oct. 19, 1775-The battles of Concord and Lexington a first within a colonial space
June 17, 1775-The Battle of Bunker Hill although victory was claimed, British casualties, left them out of place
Aug. 25, 1775-King George issued a proclamation to suppress rebellion and Sedition which continued apace
Jan. 10,1776 Thomas Paine published Common Sense claiming the English Constitution existed only in space
July 4,1776 Congress adopts the Declaration, thereby declaring a new nation was now in place
And now we have America and since the 1800’s see each other face to face as well as eye to eye
While Jefferson sought New Orleans France thought the Louisiana territory was a better buy
The new world slave rebel’s loss in Haiti versus a river open to commerce and opportunity
These were the variables amongst the many now available as the most viable course of destiny France got 15 million, the USA twice sized, Spanish, & French speaking slavers, many Indian tribes A compendium of difficulties to a new nation, some of which are still in process and even yet survive
The two main contenders against slavery were similar in many respects and impressive in their roles John Quincy Adams (6th), and Abe Lincoln (16th), Presidents, were literal and forward- looking pols Page 12 RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES May 2021 About Destiny by Jack Birnbaum continued
Adams associated not a party man, Lincoln, a party man one of the founders of the Republican organization They agreed in all areas save slavery Lincoln sans trust in absolution, Adams foresaw a multi-racial nation Without assassination, civil rights Kaplan writes, due to entrenched southern racism it could be a long bitter fight And here we are in 2020 still occupied with racial issues progress made in an election year but Kaplan was right
*********************************************************
Sticks and stones may break our bones By Jack Birnbaum May 2021
As a child some 90 years ago in Brooklyn N.Y. this ditty was a get out of jail card as a pass that let me freely move in our bigger city Except for times my mom had errands she wanted me to do her rules what or what not I and my sister could or could not do, Myself elder was in fact a semi-supervisor ere a new life To Manhattan in a Laundry shop, staffed by mom and pop new grammar school and high schools’ boys for me, girls my sisters fife High school was for me was an academy for a life time education It opened my ears to music as a part of my life forever it made me love the arts and a devotee of scholarship as a vocation It opened my heart to democracy the plight of mankind was my lever While drafted I vowed my career would help the world be a better place My service time over, my Social work career that I hoped had filled the spaces
Page 13 RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES May 2021
It would seem that America has practiced Democracy longest of all Core documents the Constitution, the Declaration, now a third gets a call George Washington’s his final work, a presidential six pillars of advice for men seeking methods to run the show.
Pillar 1 NATIONAL UNITY the unity of governance constitutes you as a citizen and it is dear to you He foresaw it as a main pillar of the edifice of independence so very true Citizens of birth, choice in a common country which shares your affection
Pillar 2 political moderation
Moderation is a weapon to avoid factional effects in party dissention alternate domination of rival factions tends to distract the public councils and enfeeble public administration an effort by public opinion to mitigate and to assuage it is our weapon
Pillar 3 debt and taxes
Cherish Public credit using little, as possible court peace to avoid debit timely disbursements prepare for danger, prevent larger disbursements accumulated debts from unwanted wars should be discharged at peace which can breed revenues mindful that taxes are never popular revenues
Page 14 RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES May 2021 Sticks and stones may break our bones by Jack Birnbaum continued
Pillar 4 Virtue and Religion
In political success mortality and virtue are both necessary by support it’s dangerous to suppose morality can exist outside of religious principle Educated minds use morality both with and sans religious principle
Pillar 5 Education Public opinion should be enlightened
In democracy it is important citizens expect it and they have the right to know In proportion to the government structure, opinion, should be also be enlightened
Pillar 6 A Foreign Policy Of Independence
Extend commercial relations to all and as little political ties as possible If, however some belligerent nation will not lightly hazard us to giving us provocation when we may choose peace or war, we shall be guided by Justice
And so, we have traversed some ninety-five years and there are some lessons learned some boos some cheers
Page 15 RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES May 2021 Old Whitey By Arnie Escourt
Old Whitey was always the one Who tried his best to get his tasks done. He always seemed on the run but he was patient and persistent To all disturbances he was usually resistant.
He seemed to attend to his duties with eagerness and joy His behavior reminded me of the actions of a young boy. When he worked out in the woods, he always tried his best If he didn’t finish his duties, we gave him a blanket so he could rest.
And now Old Whitey has passed away in his bed. There is so much more that needs to be said. You could sort of tell he was of Polish decent But he always did as told and went where sent.
His fur was white, soft and had a shine Old Whitey was the perfect example of a fine canine. His paws were huge like a large man’s fist And when he licked your face, you knew you were kissed.
We enjoyed using him on all our fox hunts He seemed to understand each of the fox’s stunts. We could always see his white fur running by He never got tired, he always seemed to try.
Yes, there is much more that we can say But those remarks will have to wait for another day!
Page 16 RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES May 2021 Love By Arnie Escourt There are usually too many emotions in our daily life Including anger, hate, longing and strife. After deep consideration and much thought Love is the one that needs to be sought.
Young love is so tender and usually so sweet Love makes singles into pairs, more complete. It is a sentiment some find hard to declare. Because of love people often forget how or where.
Love tends to bring happiness and joy and such It often brings blushes to the cheeks and thrills to the touch. It is the first phase to making baby boys and girls Each with ten little fingers and pretty little curls.
Romance and happiness bring great pride And it makes all of us feel so good inside. Love requires caring and sharing and being kind. It encourages giving flowers or gifts we can find.
Intimacy build the limbs of the family tree And strengthens the bonds of humanity. Love can end the strife between nations and foes How all this works, I’m sure nobody really knows.
Love is always forgiving and showing we care It abounds around us, something we need to share. Love is God’s gift, like a beautiful symphony When we listen, we can live in peace and harmony.
Love can be friendly or it can be intimate It can be romantic or it can be playing catch with a mitt. A sensitive touch, a kiss, a hug or a feeling of soul. Keep searching for more love, it’s a wonderful goal! Page 17 RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES May 2021 May 2021 By Ed Scully
Some Paul's Run residents who may not be from Philadelphia or its environs, and even those who have lived here most of their lives may not be aware of the many FIRSTS that took place in our city since our founding fathers started it all. To help enhance residents' knowledge about what's been going on, please read on.
1731- First subscription library (By Benjamin Franklin) 1748- First hospital in America, the Pennsylvania Hospital 1755- Marine Corps was founded in the Two Tun Tavern 1765 -First medical school, Penn's Medical School 1777- First U.S. Capitol-- from March 1,1781 to June 21, 1783 1790- First stock exchange in America 1791- First U.S. Mint 1794- First African Methodist Episcopal Church, Mother Bethel A.M.E. 1805- First art institution, Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts 1809- First theatre in America, Walnut Street Theatre 1848- First and only women's visual arts college, Moore College 1874- First zoo in America (Chartered in 1859) 1876- First World's Fair in America (Centennial Exposition) 1877 -First department store in America, Wanamaker's (Now Macy's) 1901- First escalator in America (in Snellenberger's Department store) 1919- First Thanksgiving Day Parade 1928- Edwin E. Scully was born four months late, but still premature 1932- First totally air conditioned building (PSFS Building)
(More to come in subsequent RUNNERS)
Page 18 RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES May 2021 May 2021 Ed Scully continued
We thankfully are on the precipice of defeating the COVID-19 pandemic - an awful catastrophe that was dealt very well with at Paul's Run Retirement Community. We can say that soon we may be foot-loose and fancy-free and starting to eat our meals together in a large room that we used to call our dining room. We residents extend our greatest appreciation to a dedicated Paul's Run management and staff, who in the past fifteen months did everything possible to keep us sheltered and safe; and of course, the food service chefs, cooks, and the food servers who delivered meals so that no one went hungry, but rather ate as well as one eating at Four Seasons downtown. Steaks, lamb chops, crab cakes, many other wonderful entrees and desserts were worth waiting for.
The youngsters who delivered our meals deserve some special recognition for ringing our doorbells and presenting our meals still warm and ready to eat with little or no added preparation required by us. A gentleman at a Men's Club meeting mentioned that he has gained ten pounds; and another said he gained five .There is little need to wonder why!
Celebration of May Day is a tradition at Bryn Mawr College, a rather elite college in a western suburb outside Philadelphia. It will be memorialized this year on Saturday May 1 following a tradition since 1900. Activities from dawn to late evening include Maypole dancing, hoop racing, concerts, plays and colorful Renaissance pageantry that are FREE and open to the public (which includes us at Paul's Run).
Page 19 RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES May 2021 May 2021 Ed Scully continued
The celebration begins at 5:45 A.M., when sophomores awake seniors with flowers and song. A mix of old and new traditions of the day includes a hoop race that predicts who will be the first to earn her doctorate. (My grandmother almost won it in 2015). In addition to the traditional Maypole event, students in the mid- 1980's added a distinctly feminist May Hole dance, celebrating women's liberation through the symbolic release of flowers into the air. By the way, it could be that Bryn Mawr College is all female.
A day-long re-enactment of the Elizabethan rite of Spring ends with the screening of "The Philadelphia Story" starring Bryn Mawr's most famous graduate, none other than Katharine Hepburn. Since she is mentioned here a little bit about her is presented below. Before that, you are informed of the prestige that she holds because of the great status within the college that awards the Katharine Hepburn Medal every four years to a leader in arts and activism. The medal is in recognition of women who change their worlds; and, whose lives and contributions embody the intelligence, drive and independence of the four-time Oscar winner and her trailblazing mother, class of 1899. Recipients of the medal are actors Lauren Bacall and Blythe Danner; musician Jane Golden; humanitarian Helene Gayle; and Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor.
Katharine Hepburn was known for being fiercely private and would not give interviews or talk to fans. She rarely appeared in public, even avoiding going to restaurants and once wrestled a camera from a photographer when he took a picture without asking.
Page 20 RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES May 2021 May 2021 Ed Scully continued
Otherwise she was an active person reportedly swimming and playing tennis every morning. She told a journalist “I’m an atheist, and that’s it. I believe there’s nothing we can know, except that we should be kind to each other and do what we can for other people”. Katharine also liked to go barefoot and wear trousers. Her acting career was great as anyone’s and it’s appropriate to cover it later in her biography.
Her only marriage was to Ludlow Ogden Smith, a socialite - businessman from our fair city of Philadelphia when she was 21 ending in a quick divorce. Her most significant relationship was with Spencer Tracy, her co-star in nine films. She died from cardiac arrest at the age of 96 having signs of dementia in her final years. She requested that there be no memorial service. ******************************************************* Just about all of us residents are able to recall the television show "Dallas" and the often heard question" Who shot JR?" but really nobody shot him at all. Here at Paul's Run we also have a JR but nobody ever shot him either because he moves around oh so very quickly. This JR is a lead mechanic in charge of the Maintenance Department of three painters and ten mechanics, having acquired his skills at the Orleans Technical School on Red Lion Rd. with a specialty in Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC).
JR may have never been out of Northeast Philadelphia because he was born here ,went to grammar and high school here, as mentioned above want to trade school here, was also probably married here, he still lives here and he has worked here at Paul's Run in the Northeast for 26 years. It's planned to buy him a SEPTA pass so that he may ride the 58 bus out of Northeast Philadelphia sometime, even though he looks forward to being here at least another twenty or so years --simply because he likes it here with all of you. Page 21 RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES May 2021 May 2021 Ed Scully continued
Every day is an adventure to JR because he still doesn't know what we residents may be up to causing, from a leaky faucet to a flooded kitchen. While being employed at Paul's Run, he has dealt with lightning on the roof and a very nearby tornado. The title of his department, Maintenance, really means everything that needs to be attended to and also what may need repair or replacement. In closing, while you continue to enjoy your food here, you are reminded that his department also keeps the kitchen equipment going.
Some space is now given to someone here at Paul's Run less than twenty-six weeks: Elise Baranak who, as a Christmas present, became our new General Store Coordinator. Raised in Warrington, graduating from Abington Friends, majoring in Women's Studies at Penn State, she succeeded Josh somehow because her boyfriend, Brian, is his brother.
Elise's staff consists of twelve uncompensated volunteers, ten of whom are sisters living in Paul's Run as their retirement home. Her responsibilities are varied with an inherent objective to at least break even with possibly a little profit that will accrue to "Friends of Paul's Run", spent charitably as needed. To accomplish that, her tasks are as varied as one would have in any neighborhood store: ordering, stocking, maintaining inventory, assessing residents' needs, adding new merchandise, eliminating poor sellers, meeting needs for various specially desired items, shopping for specials, and maintaining sanity.
Elise will have a break to celebrate her July birthday by taking a trip to Disney World with her parents and boyfriend. The store will remain open for you during her absence.
Page 22 RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES May 2021
May 2021 Ed Scully continued
It's indeed a pleasure to let you residents know that Jennifer in the Housekeeping Dept. probably sets records when she works on residents' beds. Last Wednesday, she stripped my bed of the sheets and the cases on four pillows; and then replaced everything with the freshest of linens---- all in the seemingly miraculous time of 81/2 minutes. WOW!
**********************************************************
The very long televised courtroom trial of the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis has also caused a focus on police departments across the nation, including ours in our fair city of Philadelphia--particularly because the defendant is Derek Chauvin a former police officer. This may bring attention to the Philadelphia Police Department, and to give you residents an insight into its organization, the following is presented:
It is the nation's fourth largest police department, with over 6600 sworn members and 800 civilian personnel. Three years ago, I attempted to become a police officer but I was considered past the maximum sign-on age of 40 and was unable to obtain an age waiver. Without me, it patrols and protects a 142.5 square mile area with a population of close to 1.5 million, including us who reside here at Paul's Run. Its mission is to make our city one of the safest cities in America by fighting crime, reducing a fear of crime and terror although some days it may not happen. Like many other police departments, it has incorporated many special units such as a K-9 squad, SWAT, Bomb squad, marine unit, and community relations. The highest ranking officer is Commissioner Danielle Outlaw.
Page 23 RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES May 2021 May 2021 Ed Scully continued
The adherence to "Training of Police Personnel" has a prominent place in the above cited George Floyd trial and, accordingly, a summary of the training all Philadelphia police officers receive--- which is much more than how to write tickets, direct traffic, control crowds and participate in parades. Some of it is presented for your edification: Each new officer is provided training in the basic requirements to perform the duties of an officer during the first five weeks as an officer. A later eleven weeks in training are offered as a continuation of training in a patrol platoon emphasizing on the job duties which leads to their graduation as officers from the Police Academy.
Listed as an Officer in Development (OID) he/she has entered the Field Development Program under the guidance of a trainer with experience, ability, proper demeanor and professionalism of a sergeant. An evaluation after that training phase includes a rating of these observed duties:
Vehicle Operation, Community Interaction, Traffic Enforcement, Demeanor/Attitude, Written Communication, Patrol Procedures, Physical Skills/ Force, Tactical Safety, Verbal Communication, Arresting/Use of Force, Criminal Laws, Appearance
The OID will also spend time with a Compstat Officer, a District Crime Analyst, and Crime Prevention Officer to understand Crime Analysis, consisting of Mapping and Analysis, Crime Patterns, Offender Focus, Crime Prevention, Departmental Tasks, and Reviewing Conditions Conducive to Crime. This listing is only the beginning of continuing training in much more complex duties as he/she advances to more responsible and detailed positions within the department. We look forward to never having a happening within the Philadelphia Police Department as it did in Minneapolis.
Page 24 RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES May 2021 May 2021 Ed Scully continued
Since January 20,2021 our Vice President of United States has been Kamala Harris, the first female ever to hold that office. In many past years, it has mostly been a ceremonial office so little regarded that Vice President John Nance Garner said that the office wasn't worth a bottle of warm water although it is very strongly acknowledged that he used much more explanatory language.
Much of her time in office has been spent waiting for the dedicated Vice President home to be finished rehabilitation – which occurred most recently. Now she is settled down and is pleased with the assignment given her by President Joe Biden: Straighten out the immigration mess at our southwestern border with Mexico and the Central American countries from where most immigration is taking place.
This will be a great task for her but it can, to a certain extent, be considered a training project and a learning experience for her in how to be president. This is not too wild a thought since, to date, fifteen vice presidents have later become president. They served under forty-five presidents; and statistically exploring, Kamala Harris therefore has a thirty-three percent probability of someday becoming President. What do you think?
In case you may think Kamala Harris may be the first presidential nominee, a list of those who already have done so is provided for your review: VOTES Jill Stein 2012 Green Party 468,907 Jill Stein 2016 Green Party 1,457,218 Hillary Clinton 2016 Democratic 65,853,516 Jo Jorgenson 2020 Libertarian 1,865,724 Page 25 RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES May 2021 May 2021 by Ed Scully continued
An anonymous gentleman stopped by and asked if he could provide a joke for inclusion in the Runner. He was informed that whatever he wished to publish would be as welcome as the flowers in May and also because this is the May issue. Here it is:
A friendly couple living in Florida became even more friendly and decided to marry but were undecided where they would live. She wanted to definitely live in Canada but he was staunchly determined to continue living in Florida. He told her he does not want to live in Canada. She would not change her mind and he also remained unchanged and told her he has no desire to live in Canada and dislikes her latitude. The End!
If any of you residents feel that you have a joke to publish let me know especially if the one you have is as uproariously funny as the introductory joke above. ********************************************************************** In the middle of April, the funeral of Prince Philip of Great Britain took place with some strikingly moving ceremonies as he had suggested while he was still with us. An event at the beginning of the funeral was the playing of the hymn “God Save the Queen” which, somehow showing our closeness to Great Britain, is to the same tune as our often-played song, “America” (My Country Tis of Thee)
Page 26 RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES May 2021
May 2021 by Ed Scully continued
What is also amazing is that the funeral was televised worldwide (142 countries) even on all our local channels and all major cable stations for three hours. An underlying outcome of this televised funeral is that it helps to show (at least a little bit) that practicing religion may not be as woeful as it may appear. Note that religion is practiced by more people than you may think. Statisticians have determined there are nine major religions such as: Christianity (which includes Roman Catholicism) Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Confucianism, Hinto and Taoism. These nine are taken from an estimated 4200 religions practiced throughout the world. How about that!
Practicing religion is highlighted at Paul’s Run directed by our Chaplain Julie, who does much more than what is called for in her job description. Prior to COVID-19, a Catholic mass was celebrated daily in our chapel by neighboring parish priests. Other Protestant and Jewish religious ceremonies were and are regular occurrences both in the chapel and as needed in the auditorium. Pastor Julie also calls on residents who may be in need of counseling, comfort, and prayer – a service that is seldom provided in other retirement centers. Pastor Julie, on the side, also participates in distributing goodies to residents.
Page 27 RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES May 2021
May 2021 by Ed Scully continued
Liberty Lutheran consists of several entities throughout the immediate and distant areas. There’s something far away as Boston because I’ve gotten invoices from there. A good friend recently moved into The Hearth in Bala Cynwyd and loves it there. (I hope to visit him soon) Something is also going on up the road, a business management staff and center there similar to Paul’s Run: Artman at Ambler. There are also two other centers: Manor at York Town and Village at Penn State. I wonder what could be next.
A facility that I was familiar with many years ago was a railroad station at 41st and Parrish Streets in West Philadelphia that Liberty Lutheran acquired. The well-established center provides free delicious hot lunches and conducts activities and classes to help seniors in enhancing their lives.
Page 28 CROSSWORD OF THE MONTH May 2021 Weeds and Wildflowers Use the clues to fill in the crossword.
DOWN ACROSS 1. Yearly 2. Climbing plant 3. Unwanted lawn growth 6. Floral chain flower 4. Queen Anne’s _____ 8. Dirt 5. Pretty parts of a flower 9. Small light yellow flower 6. Done with a spade 11. Plant’s beginning 7. Flower stalk 13. Cutting tool 8. Shoot up 14. Air current 15. Prickly plant 10. Feline intoxicant 17. Fragrance 12. Weed with yellow blooms 18. Light purple flower 16. Patch of grass
Page 29 APRIL CROSSWORD SOLUTION May 2021 Mother Nature (solution)
Page 30 CLASSIFIEDS May 2021 MAIL ISSUES Like Us On RESIDENTS ARE ASKED TO RETURN TO THE Facebook RECEPTIONISTS ANY MISDIRECTED DELIVERY FROM THE UNITED STATES POST OFFICE. PAUL’S THE RECEPTIONISTS WILL ASSURE IT IS RETURNED TO RUN THE POSTAL WORKER FOR DELIVERY TO THE CORRECT RECIPIENT
THE GENERAL STORE FRIENDLY REMINDER HOURS OF OPERATION Our lobby is so beautiful. Please be (During COVID-19) careful when eating or PAUL’S RUN drinking in that area. MONDAY 10:30AM-3:30PM Beauty Shop Thank You. By Appointment Only No Walk-Ins TUESDAY 10:30AM-3:30PM Call Anne Amato WEDNESDAY HOUSE 215-934-3055 KEEPING 10:30AM-3:30PM
THURSDAY THE HOUSEKEEPING 10:30AM-3:30PM DEPARTMENT IS ASKING A Request from FOR YOUR COOPERATION IN Maintenance: As much as MAINTAINING A SANITARY we like to hear from you FRIDAY ENVIRONMENT FOR ALL OF about repairs you need, 10:30AM-3:30PM OUR RESIDENTS. we ask that you contact REMEMBER TO WASH YOUR the front desk and put in a SATURDAY 11AM- HANDS FREQUENTLY WITH work order so the repair 3:30PM SOAP AND WATER OR WITH HAND SANITIZER WHEN request gets recorded and AWAY FROM SOAP AND not forgotten about. SUNDAY 11AM-3:30PM WATER.
Page 31