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July 2021 JULY RUNNER “Then followed that beautiful season, Summer! Filled was the air with a dreamy and magical light.” ~ Henry Wadsworth Longfellow Animal of the Month – Hamster Special Days Hamsters are one of 19species in the Cricetinae subfamily Canada Day of the Rodentia family. These July 1 small rodents are often kept 2021 Halfway Point as pets, particularly the Syrian July 2 or golden hamster. They were first domesticated in 1939. Independence Day (U.S.) July 4 In the wild, hamsters stay underground during the day These cute, typically solitary Bastille Day (France) and eat seeds, fruits, grasses, little critters are adventurous and July 14 and insects. They have short climb well despite having poor tails, furry ears and feet, and vision. They have a good sense Full Moon long cheek pouches, which of smell and hearing, and they (Buck Moon) are used to transport food communicate with body language July 23 back to their burrows. Their and by using their scent glands. fur comes in a range of Hamsters are born hairless and International Day patterns and colors, including blind, and have a longevity of of Friendship white, brown, orange, gray, two to three years. A group of July 30 and black. hamsters is called a horde. Flower – Larkspur Birthstone – Ruby The larkspur gets its name from its The birthstone for July is the resemblance to a dolphin. The flower’s ruby. The name ruby was scientific name, delphinium, is derived derived from the Latin word from the Greek word delphis, meaning rubens, meaning “red.” Like a “dolphin.” As the larkspur begins to perfect red rose, the ruby’s rich bloom, its petals form graceful arches color speaks of love and passion. Called the and curve in a bottle-like shape similar rajnapura, or “king of precious stones,” by the to the nose of the joyful marinemammal. ancient Hindus, the ruby has been a highly The larkspur is also said to reflect the prized gem throughout history. The gorgeous dolphin’s spirit, and a purple larkspur represents stone is also the most commonly named the soaring emotions of first love. Larkspurs of precious gem in the English translation of the all colors are thought to symbolize feelings of Bible. It is thought to offer wisdom, wealth, and lightness, levity, and an open heart. success in love, as well as to guard against evil.
July 2021 Historic July Firsts for the Record Riddle Me July July 1, 1796 – English doctor July 20, 1969 – If April = 145 Edward Jenner experiments with Apollo 11 astronaut If May = 1353 the first smallpox inoculation—a Neil Armstrong If June = 1064 discovery that saves millions of becomes the first If August = 186 lives each year. person to walk on If September = 1999 the moon. July 20, 1858 – The first What is the code for July? documented admission fee for a July 17, 1986 – baseball game (between Brooklyn Answer: 1074 (10 is the Greg LeMond position of the letter J in the and New York all-stars) comes becomes the firstAmerican in at a whopping 50 cents. to win the Tour de France alphabet. 7 is the position of bicycle race. July in months, and 4 indicates July 1, 1934 – The first X-ray the number of letters in July.) photograph of an entire body is July 22, 1989 – The youngest made at a hospital in Rochester, pilot to fly around the world, NY. It’s a one-second exposure, July Zodiacs 11-year-old TonyAliengena, performed under ordinary returns to John Wayne Airport in Cancer (The Crab) conditions. Orange County, California, nearly July 1–22 July 16, 1945 – The first atomic seven weeks and 21,567 miles Leo (The Lion) bomb is detonated. after taking off in his Cessna. July 23–31 July wasn’t the original name for the month. On the early Roman calendar, July was called Quintilis. Julius Caesar was born in this month, and the name was changed to Julius, or July, to honor him when he was alive. Julius Caesar made major reforms to the inaccurate Roman calendar, and his Julian calendar is still used in Eastern Orthodox Christian countries. The Gregorian calendar that exists today in the West is a slightly edited version of the Julian calendar. July Headlines July Birthdays July 2, 1937: Earhart Disappears in Flight over Pacific Diana (Princess of Wales) – July 1, 1961 July 1, 1943: U.S. Payroll Withholding Tax Kicks Off Jerry Vale (singer) – July 8, 1930 Giorgio Armani (designer) – July 11, 1934 July 27, 1953: Korean War Ends Linda Ronstadt (singer) – July 15, 1946 July 6, 1957: First African American WinsWimbledon Barbara Stanwyck (actress) – July 16, 1907 July 1, 1963: U.S. Begins Using Zip Codes James Cagney (actor) – July 17, 1899 Phyllis Diller (comedienne) – July 17, 1917 What’s Lucky in July? Nelson Mandela (statesman) – July 18, 1918 Lucky Color: Purple Sir Edmund Hillary (explorer) – July 20, 1919 Lucky Animal: Tiger Lucky Letters: J and A Alex Trebek (game show host) – July 22, 1940 Lucky Day: Saturday Barry Bonds (baseball player) – July 24, 1964 Lucky Plant: Pansy Estelle Getty (actress) – July 25, 1923 Page 2
July 2021 7/2 Leonard Eksterowicz 7/17 Theresa Miletto 7/2 Libby Goldstein 7/17 Helen Weitman 7/2 Grace Metrokas 7/18 Stanley Feldman 7/3 Doris Starr 7/18 Eleanor Kuntz 7/4 Mary Ruth Palan 7/19 Mary Fiala 7/4 Marie Taraschi 7/20 Sarah Glaccum 7/5 Ana Kennedy 7/21 Dolores Nocitra 7/5 Miriam Pellegrino 7/22 Albert Mezger 7/5 Charles White 7/22 Annette Parkin 7/6 Leonard Fulton 7/22 Charles Woolson 7/9 Robert Halpern 7/24 Joan Burnes 7/9 Jane Norton 7/24 Allan Gellert 7/10 Beatrice Rudnick 7/24 Dolores Kozlow 7/10 Alfred Schuyler 7/26 Franceline Malone 7/11 Irving Lederman 7/27 Ruth Grill 7/12 Sylvia Flancer 7/28 Rhoda Brown 7/12 Juanita Lewandowski 7/28 Carl DeAngelis 7/13 Michael Coyle 7/28 Sarah Maxwell 7/13 Agnes McDevitt 7/30 John Roehm 7/13 Walburta Nelson 7/31 Andrea Vaudreuil 7/14 Rosalie Scamardi Page 3
EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS EDITION July 2021 Happy July! When I think of July, I think of warm summer days and BBQs and cold drinks, but regardless of the time of year, nutrition is an important part of our health. This month I am sharing a Nutrition News article from Stephanie Kowalski and Lauren Mulvaney, Registered Dietitians NUTRITION NEWS By: Stephanie Kowalski, RDN and Lauren Mulvaney, RDN "Food is the single strongest lever to optimize human health and environmental sustainability on Earth." -The EAT-Lancet Commission on Food, Planet, Health Fundamentals of Fiber Many of us have heard the word Fiber being used by our doctors and health professionals, but do we really understand what it is or what it does? Page 4
EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS EDITION July 2021 NUTRITION NEWS continued Dietary Fiber is defined as: Intact plant components that are not broken down by digestive enzymes in the body. It can be found in fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains. There are 2 types of dietary fiber, soluble and insoluble, both of which have many benefits and should be included in a healthy diet. The main difference between the two is that soluble fiber dissolves in water and forms a gel, while insoluble doesn’t. The difference between the two will be important when discussing the benefits of fiber. Most fruits and vegetables are sources of both types of fiber. For example, the skin of most fruit consists of insoluble fiber, while the flesh contains soluble fiber. It has been shown in studies that populations with higher dietary fiber intake have lower rates of chronic disease. The diseases and conditions that fiber may protect the body against include: • Cardiovascular Disease • Type 2 Diabetes • Certain Cancers (including colorectal and gastric cancer) • Digestive Disorders The Benefits The most common benefit of fiber that people understand is the promotion of regular bowel movements and prevention of constipation. Insoluble fiber is to thank for this benefit. Since insoluble fiber is not dissolved in water it provides bulk to the stool, which allows it to move through the intestines easily. Aging causes our gastrointestinal tract to slow down, making the inclusion of insoluble fiber in the diet even more important. Page 5
EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS EDITION July 2021 NUTRITION NEWS continued Having regular and healthy bowel movements can prevent constipation, hemorrhoids, flare ups of diverticulitis, and even colon cancer. The benefits of soluble fiber are less familiar to most people. Research shows that a diet high in soluble fiber can help control blood sugars and improve blood cholesterol levels. Soluble fiber can slow the absorption of glucose in the intestine, which can improve blood sugar levels, especially for those with diabetes. As mentioned previously, soluble fiber is able to form a gel when dissolved with water, which binds to fat particles in the small intestine. This can aid in lowering LDL or “bad cholesterol” levels. A benefit that both insoluble and soluble fibers have in common is that the both promote feelings of satiety or “feeling full.” A diet high in fiber can help with weight loss or maintenance, as it reduces the desire to eat larger portions and snack frequently. How much fiber do you need? Now that we understand the benefits of fiber, how much do we need? The National Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that the average adult woman get 22-28 g of dietary fiber per day and the average adult man get 28-34 g of dietary fiber per day. Talk to your physician or registered dietitian about your specific needs as these recommendations can vary by age and can be impacted by medical history. Many Vegetarians may consume >50g of fiber per day! Page 6
EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS EDITION July 2021 NUTRITION NEWS continued What are your best fiber sources? • Fruits, especially fresh fruit • Nuts and seeds (discuss with with skin your • Vegetables physician if you have history of • Whole grain products, diverticulosis) such as bread, • Products that contain Bran, cereal and pasta. such as • Beans and lentils cereals and baked goods • Oatmeal and products • Brown rice or Quinoa with oats Additional Additional Tips and Guidelines When increasing your fiber intake, be sure to do it slowly to prevent gas, bloating and diarrhea. Increase the fiber content of one food per day. for example, start using whole grain bread to make your sandwich at lunch today and eat a small piece of fruit with breakfast tomorrow. Be sure to drink adequate amounts of fluids while increasing your fiber intake to prevent constipation. • Read food labels for the amount per fiber per serving (i.e. at least 4 grams of dietary fiber per serving to be considered a high-fiber food). • Use whole wheat flour when you bake. Add Bran Flakes, flaxseeds or chia seeds to add fiber to baking. Sources https://www.eatrightpro.org/-/media/eatrightpro-files/practice/position-and-practice-papers/position- papers/healthimplicationsfiber.pdf https://us.sodexonet.com/home/tools-x0026-resources/guidelines-and-standards/operations/food/wellness- andnutrition/ lifestyle-seminars.html https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/hyg-5583 https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/InteractiveNutritionFactsLabel/factsheets/Dietary_Fiber.pdf Page 7
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS July 2021 PAUL’S RUN GRATEFULLY ACKNOWLEDGES THE FOLLOWING TRIBUTE GIFTS IN MEMORY OF: Morton Shapiro By: Adelyn Brecher Miriam Snyder By: Warren Kurnick IN HONOR OF: Audrey and Sam Kelly By: Steve Thompson Page 8
MUSIC THERAPY NOTES July 2021 Hello everyone, Tommy here. I’m excited to be writing this month’s installment of “Music Therapy Notes”. I am a little more than halfway through my internship here at Paul’s Run. Over the course of my time here I have had the opportunity to share music and lead experiences throughout the community. In the beginning of my internship there was a great deal of restrictions in place to keep us all safe and well. As people have been getting vaccinated and new guidelines are in place, I have slowly started to see things change and restrictions become lifted. It has been such a treat after 3 months to get to see all your faces that have been behind a mask. I’ve gotten to see your smiles and witness the joys of being able to gather again. While things are going back to what at one point was “normal,” we still have a way to go must continue to protect one and other. As we enter the warmer weather, I’ve seen many of you gathered outside to watch live performances by entertainers. It is great to see our community sharing music together in addition to music sharing Molly and I get to do with you in music therapy throughout the week. Summer is my favorite season and I love listening to summer hits throughout the decades. One of my favorites is “Dancing in the Street” by Martha and the Vandellas. The song is energetic, bright, and makes me want to dance. Even on a rainy summer morning the song is a reminder to get up and enjoy the warm weather. I encourage you to explore your summer favorites and enjoy the warm weather. The time is right to play your favorite summer songs and dance, but maybe not in the street. In harmony, -Tommy Page 9
RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES July 2021 Another Book Review Sr. Dorothy Dowd If anyone visiting the library is looking for a challenging read, See No Stranger by Valarie Kaur would “fill the bill.” This book provides an inside observation of our country’s events through the vision of a female Sikh. It has opened my eyes even more to the lives of those who are presently in the minority. Fortunately, something is being done, and has been done, to investigate the problems. Sometimes it appears we are “blowing in the wind” about situations. And many times, it seems like they are insolvable problems. What do I mean concretely? Let me give you an example. A few years ago, I lived in West Philadelphia. One day I went visiting with someone from the neighborhood. The “distant” property owners needed to repair stairs and provide hand railings. I truly regretted that I could not continue to visit again. Possibly if you are from this northern part of the City, you are unaware of the City’s needs. You have all heard of this positive example. My, how great are cell phones. Remember the nine-year-old girl who was able to testify in the George Floyd trial? There were many worthwhile quotes in Ms. Kaur’s book. She states: “A thousand small acts that don’t seem to make a difference, until a critical mass bursts into public consciousness.” The above example came to mind as I read those words. She applies the following statement to justice done to minorities. “In tending our wounds, we show mercy to ourselves, and perhaps a corresponding need to show mercy to others.” Page 10
RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES July 2021 Another Book Review by Sr. Dorothy Dowd continued Surely in our life here at Paul’s Run much mercy and understanding has been shown to us here, to each other from our residents and from those who help us along our “journey.” So – thank you again for mercy shown us here! ************************************************************** ”Foodies” and “Food Club” BY Sr. Dorothy Dowd On a lighter note….. Erin gave us a taste of her cooking skills when she developed two recipes. She took two magazine recipes and produced them before our eyes! You may see someday the Buffalo hummus or the Avocado dip. The following session we had crabmeat stuffed mushrooms from Doris’s recipes. Someone from the fourth floor appreciated the aroma and was finally allowed in to be a “tester.” Oh, we all had a good laugh. Someday you may find a new recipe in the dining room! An Unusual Food Event Quite a few years ago, when I was working in Pinon, Arizona, the pastor was preparing the church for “reentry.” That word does not mean walking in. The Franciscans, priests and brothers, are known for doing more than just repairs. Fr. Blaine had built a chapel inside a church. And plans for a service and a “feed.” Page 11
RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES July 2021 An Unusual Food Event by Sr. Dorothy Dowd continued As we had only a few people who came to our trailer for Mass every Saturday evening, I was anticipating about ten people. Some good women from Chinle were bringing the chile beans and “fixings” for the Navajo tacos. I had begun a few days before cutting the onions, the next day chopped some tomatoes, and lettuce was sliced the final day. Also, I had made a crockpot of chili, just in case it would be needed. After the service, we began an assembly line in the hall part of the building. I was busily handing out plastic ware. In case you have never been on a reservation, you might not know the Native people have a beautiful custom of sharing food. So, when the line ended, I noticed one woman scraping the crockpot. I went over and said, “I’m so glad that I made some stew.” The ladies informed me that was all that they had. The huge vat of chile stew could not be used. It must have been refrigerated too quickly, when still warm! You tell me how we fed about one hundred people with the contents of one crock pot and a few vegetables. I know what I think! Maybe you’ve had a similar experience when you did not let any person go empty handed! Page 12
RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES July 2021 July Newsletter By Ed Scully Although I’m not with you in residence, I am truly in spirit with you as I’m preparing some diatribe for you that may be included in the coming July RUNNER of 2021. Here goes : On the evening of the12th of May, my son Mark and I drove to the Glenside Pub to meet with three friends at the startup of our cross country of travel for anywhere from four to six months. I’ll try to describe the many encounters in a trip we will come across in a way that opens a new perspective about living in our city of Philadelphia. On the 22nd we will become familiar with the Canyon Village of the Yellowstone National Forest where we are now enjoying a 33 degree temperature; and where you in Paul’s Run are now facing 80 degrees. (There will be more to come as we get to Oregon, Lake Tahoe, Nevada, and to New Orleans, Louisiana.) As you may have noticed, the first full day of our trip was on the 13th of May. To many, the fear of that number 13 can possibly get you down . However, you could be susceptible to what’s known as paraskevidekatriaphobia or whatever people call friggatriskaidekapobia instead. Whether you plan on being tucked in bed, it’s worth looking into why the 13th has a bit of a reputation of “Why do people fear the number 13?” First, let’s get into the 13. While culture has an issue into the number 13, that gets you the odd number, there’s no one set of circumstances that make it decidedly unlucky . Common theories behind the fear of 13 include: Viking lore, where unsavory Lori is believed to be the 13th god in the Norse pantheon. A biblical reference to 13 people reportedly sitting at the Last Supper. Numerology, where the 13 is in a lower regard because it follows 12. Page 13
RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES July 2021 July Newsletter by Ed Scully continued If you’re expecting unlucky things to happen, you might even change your habits on days like this. Multiple studies speculate that businesses lose millions of dollars on each Friday the 13th because some people avoid regular behavior like traveling or making investments. When we leave our former neighborhoods, we may tend to lose touch with some old friends and relatives because of distance, this loss of contact with them may often show that it’s happening even more. Even it has been found to be on the rise and it has also been found to increase a person’s risk of dying early. Thus, it becomes rather apparent that maintaining old friendships with someone who can be talked to, someone who can be enjoyed being with is very much recommended. How about trying something out today? Everyone at Paul’s Run has been entertained by Lucile Ball and Desi Arnez over the years but few have visited the Lucy Desi Museum in Jamestown, New York which is open seven days a week. Lucy’s hometown of Jamestown is ninety miles west of Buffalo and Niagara Falls and, of course, it was directly on our way to our first final destination, Roseburg, Oregon. The museum features re- creations of the studio sets of the most beloved comedy of all time - I Love Lucy - including the Ricardo’s New York City apartment living room and kitchen, and their Hollywood hotel suite. Also featured are a life-sized mural of the original studio audience, the opportunity to be a part of your very own Vitameatavegamin commercial, Lucy’s well-deserved Emmy awards, a look into the history and creation of I Love Lucy and much more. Page 14
RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES July 2021 July Newsletter by Ed Scully continued The community itself has also made a great effort to recognize Lucille Ball and before 2012 the local artists completed the first full color “ I Love Lucy” mural in the city. Now, there are a total of five scattered throughout Jamestown. As a feature of the museum, an audio tour narrated by Lucille herself is provided. It includes descriptions of costumes and gowns, photographs, letters, scripts and awards that are among the priceless artifacts on display. When you visit the museum, you certainly will be sure to notice something new. Three blocks away is the National Comedy Center, funded a short while ago with $40 million from the federal government. Unfortunately, the city of Philadelphia was a bidder for the center but was not the winner. However, the center is almost as great as if it were here. We spent an afternoon there viewing a state–of–the art museum dedicated to comedy’s great minds and unique voices , the features and unusual and exclusive collections, world class exhibits and leading-edge interactive technology. It is definitely an unprecedented experience. USA Today named the museum “The Best New Museum”. People magazine called it “One of the reasons to love America”. Visitors rate the experience a “five out of five” and I rate it “A seven out of seven”. My grandmother rates the museum “A nine out of nine “. A visit by anyone and everyone is fun for all in the family, including children who may, while there, draw their own cartoon characters. One may also add sound- effects to a comedy classic, put oneself into a movie or TV comedy, perform on a Comedy Karaoke stage, and do much more for all. Page 15
RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES July 2021 July Newsletter by Ed Scully continued If you have forgotten about a comedian that you enjoyed when you may have been even younger, the very good chances are that you will see him or her during your visit. How about Laurel and Hardy, The Three Stooges, Bud Abbott and Lou Costello, Bob and Ray, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Looney Tunes, Bugs Bunny, Johnny Carson, Jay Leno and even Lucille Ball once again. There are certainly some comedians highlighted at the museum that performed in our fair city of Philadelphia including a comedian unnamed at this moment, who lived on Baltimore Ave. That’s all Folks! We will remember Chicago because of our attendance at a baseball game in Wrigley Field that the Cubs won 8 to 5 against the Washington Nationals --- a game that everyone seemed to enjoy. The next day, in Minneapolis, we saw the Twins lose 2 to 1 to the Chicago White Sox. Because we are equal opportunity baseball fans we went to a minor league game between the Sioux Falls Canaries and a team from Winnipeg that became a runaway game, 8 to 3 for the Canaries, despite a 35 MPH wind blast during the entire game. These games were the only sporting events we saw but we could hear Phillies games most evenings on Satellite radio. We would certainly miss out if our National Parks were not included in our tour of what we had never seen. Therefore, our first such visit was to the Badlands National Park in South Dakota. Its name was given by French trappers who explored the west in the early 1800’s. They called the area a “bad land to cross”. The Dakota Indians labeled it “mako sico” meaning “land bad”. Remember they had no paved roads or visitors centers to make traveling easier. Page 16
RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES July 2021 July Newsletter by Ed Scully continued The great fossils in the Badlands tell a story of strange climates, strange animals of the jungles, rivers, and marshes. The remains of camels, crocodiles, saber-toothed cats, and three-toed horses no bigger than the average dog have all been uncovered . Larger archeology digs have unearthed the bones of dinosaurs and rhinoceroses. If I can find the time, I plan to schedule another visit to the Badlands to possibly track down the burial site there of Jimmy Hoffa. A variety of creatures roam this area , including prairie dogs, porcupines, mice, cottontails, and jackrabbits, black-footed ferrets, snakes, prairie rattlers, antelopes, deer, eagles and coyotes. In the late 1800’s buffalo and big horn sheep were hunted to near extinction in this area. To revive the look of that time period, the National Park Service has reintroduced these animals. I’m amazed that crocodiles could have travelled there from the Everglades). I must mention that the Badlands have vibrant colors, caused by mineral deposits. The layers containing tinges of oxidized manganese have a purple cast. Iron oxide in small quantities produced the orange and tan layers. The volcanic ash, dropped by westerly winds from the Rockies produced the white layers in places where the ash fell and mixed with silt and clay. If our residents look north about four blocks away on Bustleton Ave, they may see some results of Badlands residue that drifted there in March 1928 and has remained there ever since. The next article to follow is one about the Wall Drug which the management of the Badlands recommends that it should be on your list of sites to visit. We went there and it was such a site to behold that a full page must be devoted to telling our Paul’s Run residents all about it. An operation like that in our neighborhood would or could put the chain pharmacies near us out of business. Page 17
RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES July 2021 July Newsletter by Ed Scully continued In December 1931, Dorothy and Ted Husted bought the only drug store in town called Wall on the edge of the South Dakota Badlands. They had talked to a banker, a doctor, and a Catholic priest who told them that Wall was a good place to live with good people also. All three wanted them to come live there. A cousin thought they should not buy something in the middle of nowhere—but they did. Ted heard from his father-in-law who told him Wall is just about as Godforsaken as you can get – but, again they still bought it. Led by two of Dorothy’s aunts who were Dominican nuns, they asked God’s guidance. In the first few months, business was just awful but they decided to give it a total of five years before giving up. They looked forward to Mount Rushmore opening up with more potential customers arriving. However, they were establishing a wonderful reputation especially for preparing prescriptions for sick children. Their pastor, Father John Connolly had become a tower of strength but Dorothy felt that she spent too much time looking out the window for customers. One day she stayed home and saw the myriad trucks going down Route 16A and amazingly she speculated that the drivers must be thirsty. She decided to put up signs that we have plenty of ice and cold water at Wall Drug --- FREE ICE WATER! Guess what happened: I’ll tell you that for hours people came pouring in, all hot and frazzled and the two poured gallons of ice water, made ice cream cones and gave highway directions. Ted, at the end of the day happily told Dorothy that her idea worked quite well. It certainly did and they’ve never been hungry for customers since. The next summer they had to hire eight workers to help them and now (2021) the store is in the good hands of their son. Wall Drug draws up to twenty thousand people on a good summer day. Wall Drug gives away an estimated 5,000 glasses of ice water every day during the summer. (I had two glasses). Page 18
RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES July 2021 July Newsletter by Ed Scully continued Free ice Water brought the Husteads a long way and it taught them that there’s absolutely no place on God’s earth that’s Godforsaken. The family rightfully believes that no matter where you live, you can reach out to other people with something they need. Wall Drug, though called still by that name, is much more that its name suggests. A visitor/shopper can spend an hour or more very easily almost as if he/she were shopping in a mini-department store—in the middle of nowhere. Did I mention that when you are in the store you may pour yourself, for one nickel, a cup of coffee into a real coffee cup as many times that you want to? Our artistic residents at Paul’s Run may be interested in the over 300 original oil paintings in the dining rooms, representing one of the best private collections of original Western and Illustration Art in the country. There is a fine representation of many of our historical masters. A sample of the art includes carvings of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid made from a 187 year old cedar tree. When visiting Wall Drug, it’s suggested: Notice the Silver Dollar Bar. Because of being enraptured by museums, baseball games, national parks, and Wall Drug I’ve become sort of unconcerned about COVID-19 and now have come up with some observations to pass on to you residents as follows: I wondered how to classify the viruses that are not inanimate, they certainly multiply, have genes, and evolve endlessly. However, as they don’t have cells they are not “alive”, can’t convert food into energy, and can’t survive on their own. It seems they may be biological zombies with only one mission to find a host to replicate: YOU Page 19
RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES July 2021 July Newsletter by Ed Scully continued I came across a popular myth that once you’ve had a virus, you’re immune to it but that’s not always the case. When you do get a virus, your body builds up antibodies to fight it. Those antibodies stay in your system, helping you ward off future infections. (This is also how vaccines work.) However, not everyone makes enough antibodies, and they can wear off over time, which is why you need booster shots of some vaccines --- maybe against COVID-19. You can be contagious without ever having or showing symptoms, according to those who are authorities at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Some who reside at Paul’s Run may even be “superspreaders” infecting dozens of others without even realizing it. It is suggested that you take precaution to prevent COVID-19 even when you do not feel sick. OK? Although just about everyone has a fear of COVID-19 because they hear pandemic and automatically think mass deaths, but most people who develop it will recover from it. To help mitigate its effect, whenever you have chest pain, shortness of breath, or severe hydration go to a hospital. In another perspective, most people, even Paul’s Run residents, will recover here. I didn’t find out until three days ago that the virus that causes COVID-19 has been found to be capable of attacking most anywhere in your body, even including your toes. This symptom looks a lot like chilblains which is redness, swelling and itching of the toes (or fingers) in cold weather such as we have had in Philadelphia, even at the end of the month of May. If someone wears a mask regardless of how many vaccines he/she has received, a most correct action is being taken. Doing so helps to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and even other viruses as well. Wearing a mask doesn’t completely prevent you from getting sick, but if everyone wore them in public places, the rate of infections throughout the community (even at Paul’s Run) could be reduced significantly. Also, you are reminded that objects such as these may harbor viruses: phones, keyboards, railings, remotes, faucets, doors and cabinet handles, sheets, pillow cases, blankets, and beer bottles, either empty or full. Last, but profound is a message from Executive Director, Bill Hines,”Don’t give up your guard”Page(or 20 something like it).
RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES July 2021 Solitude By Jack Birnbaum Each day in solitude I walk amongst those that are my many memories I visit with family, I dream dreams as well as the hearing of melodies I remember the days some being sunny and warm, others dark and cold I rejoice in my friendships some being recent and some of a vintage old I recall the loves I have shared along with the many passions of this life Elation in the achieving community amongst despairs that come of strife I’m am grateful for the life coursing through both my body and my soul And while times ravages have taken a toll, my mind still retains the goal To maintain relevance each day and toward becoming as much as I can be So too in my solitude, I take stock of my conduct hoping to a better me Have I been considerate of others in the use of both kindness and humor Has my counsel made their life richer whilst I did not engage in rumor Solitude is also my workshop allowing the use of unfettered imagination To abetting my creative drives and to bring my images into full fruition These being articles as well as the poetry, which result from this mission In solitude, I reflect on my good fortune having been born in this nation Allowing me opportunity to grow and to achieve, through use of education In democracy, with human rights, abetting me to gather those memories As this poem and articles from the now, as well as those in future stories Page 21
RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES July 2021 A First Lady By Jack Birnbaum I began this poem some two and a half years ago after finishing her biography and have no idea why the task took so long I am a longtime admirer of Eleanor Roosevelt and in my father’s home she was considered a singer of a humane song If ever there was an issue that cried out for equality, a quest denied or a right owed, she laid claim of ownership Her life was ruled by the extension of this principle that life is the natural offspring of birth, a passenger on this trip My first encounter with Mrs. R was on radio where she seemed to speak to me an immigrate child across the sea I may not have grasped some words she spoke but I knew she welcomed my entry, to her home with space for me I knew she was the wife of America’s Pres. a woman of merit and now I knew that we two were American A lot of water has flown under the bridges of America since Eleanor and her husband FDR played kick the can I would like to think they both would have been pleased by what this now 95-year-old immigrant put into play We two, my wife and I raised three children, five grandchildren and two great grandchildren (still counting), contributed into the services when called and thirty plus years of service to those handicapped and disabled Page 22
RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES July 2021 A Most Important Election By Jack Birnbaum Donald J Trump an aggressive republican upset the Democrats in becoming the 45th President of the USA The 2020 election seen as a Trump referendum now a re-count may be underway The turnout was an all-time record with Biden the Democrat is certified the winner as Trump has refused to concede Georgia will conduct a run-off to control the U S Senate while Arizona continues the Presidential count yet a need By tradition the outgoing and incoming administrations name transition teams to get their transfer under way However, what if any agreements, made in these talks, are binding on a new administration in the coming days? This is now a question if the transition teams are precedents used similar events, can it be pursued? At onset it should note that our Constitutional Republic exists since 1788, 233 years populated by migrants, natives, slaves and prisoners a divergent citizenry, amongst its many peers Born as British colonies, adapting opportunity and needs we became an important state in a new age In 1771 a first Constitution, the Articles of Confederation, entered revolutionary war with 13 states with a Congress as a deliberative body and all decisions were promulgated as policy by each of the states The Congress was a deliberative body and the states were not able to think past their own fates Page 23
RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES July 2021 A Most Important Election by Jack Birnbaum continued Each year the states chose a president and not provide funds for its operation and fiscal operation close to a mess State leaders were seen most often seen as being closer to British views witness colonist’s low attendance at their own annual stamp Act milieus State confederation militia were in conflict over land claimed by at least two states All states printed money; intra-state was inflated; Interstate moneys; speculation The confederation was seen to Europe not a nation, no credit, no navy, poor mismanaged army, without credit, limited trade In summation: The Articles of Confederation 1-It played a role in preventing further conflict in quest of western part of the U S and had a small role in development of the west 2- It initiated development of trade with England, France and Spain 3-It’s now a classroom to develop democracy and it contributed toward use of freedom and equality which tyranny took away Each new lesson be it royalty, Nazis, supermen that new tyrant are yet to play so governments are deeply rooted of the people, by the people, and for the people are here, to stay Page 24
RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES July 2021 Why I Write By Jack Birnbaum I’ve been advised that several residents have made known their feelings that the Runner is a publication which should contain articles which are intended only to amuse us, and that informative or even controversial articles should not be included, as part of this monthly publication. I know that in the almost 10 years (July) of residence I viewed the Runner as a medium of communication allowing residents to share their perceptions, experiences, opinions and talents, including amusing articles, with each other. Over the first 2 years after my wife and I came to Paul’s Run I enjoyed reading the Runner with its many interesting articles each month, but I didn’t write for the publication during this time period. However, as a member of the program Committee I had discussed with the committee a program in NYC in which I participated, designed to capture an oral history of the Lower Eastside of Manhattan, which would disappear as the elderly population passed on. The committee agreed that Paul’s Ruin population presented a similar situation but we just didn’t have the resources to conduct such a program here. As I had now begun to write up the movie and opera programs in the Runner, I thought I could begin to record an oral history albeit only through my eyes, and wrote four articles entitled “Who I am” for the Runner. The articles were a biographic portrait of four stages of my life to the age of 25 and identified some of the people who helped me to develop my persona. As a next phase I began to write a monthly diary about situations and activities which involved staff and other residents which can be viewed in the context of an oral history. In September of 2015, I became concerned after a Mayoralty election in Philadelphia was decided by the votes of 30 % of those registered to vote and the implications it had for the up-coming Presidential election of 2016. I then began to write additional monthly diary(s) each month focused around three goals: (1) To maximize voter participation (2) To provide information to assist voters to recognize leadership qualifications (3) to provide information about the issues. I did express my opinions about the issues and the candidates clearly identifying it as my opinions and urging the readers to check other sources for differential opinions. In closing let me quote an unnamed scholar who said that “bad officials are elected by good people who do not vote”. Page 25
RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES July 2021 My America By Jack Birnbaum In the eye of my mind, America has always been great, being richly endowed in the faith and dreams engendered by the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution; sired by great leaders, and stewarded through the years of strife and turmoil by leadership in whom we believed, as they too, shared this faith and those dreams. I fear however, that since January of 2017 we must once again fight for this greatness as, under a flag of political incorrectness, a political movement has arisen which has attempted to undermine two of the pillars of our Democratic faith, an independent Judiciary, and a free press. Certainly, such an attempt is not unique in history and its success in Nazi Germany during World War II with its universal catastrophic results, should give pause to any who view it, as not being serious. It is my belief that to combat such forces they and their objectives be defined and exposed so their vitriol properties do not poison our resolve and commitment to continue the great American dream. To begin with we have heard a great deal about “fake news”. Webster’s College Dictionary defines fake as “anything that misleads, deceives, or defrauds others by seeming to be what it is not- a counterfeit: - a sham”. So, it seems that knowing what information is the weapon needed, so as to prevent the adoption of either a sham or a counterfeit. Fakes companion, the lie, is defined by Webster’s (ibid) as “a false statement made with the deliberate intent to deceive”- A falsehood. While a third soul-mate namely “untrue” is defined as being “Not true to fact-incorrect or inaccurate-not true to standard. The latter two concepts are defined as untruths, or as being a divorcement from truth. Page 26
RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES July 2021 My America by Jack Birnbaum continued Clearly verification is required, as is access to verification. of the facts and data, which can identify fallacious, incorrect, inaccurate, or even deliberately falsified information. Strict verification standards of objectivity can then become the tool of an informed citizen for use in identifying malicious or misleading statements. It is not my intent in this article to orient you toward my views, but rather to urge you as citizens to make use of the tools available to make those decisions which serve to continue our great traditions. The use of fact checking programs will enable you to determine what are the facts, so that we can, in the words of Abe Lincoln, assure that this nation will endure and continue as a government reflective of the people, by the people, and for the people. About Determination By Jack Birnbaum Each day is a drama where men and women, animals and machines, take part in a real-life scheme the roles are unwritten, though situations are scripted, the inter-actions are random, resulting in a theme For example, on mornings we walk our dogs, they meet, and animals and people see themselves as swell They walk together every day and man and gal begin to act like family so, now all is well that ends well Having fun is another activity that persons, animals and machines enjoy as stimuli that add to life Television, and movies make use of machines to transmit situations of humor, drama, even strife Page 27
RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES July 2021 About Determination by Jack Birnbaum continued Man with imagination and determination trained and invented animals that enrich our existence Who among us hasn’t enjoyed lassies bark, Kong’s roar, and the antics of a bear doing a dance? Now let us look at activity like dance where fowl and fish and even man it enjoys at every chance Who, in the animal or human world, is there anyone who is not aware that fish all go to school? Or are there any so ignorant that fish, birds or humans travel together as flocks, crowds or pools In fact, most animals travel in herds or packs for protection and organization to survive the predators Not only predators as some human’s hunt in the animal world, as an adventure, use trophies, keep score A phenomenon that seems to echo past experience where protective forces now must be contained the new security makes demands on the main stream it reacts violently with a need to be restrained so, as strange it must seem, the animals now have protection from other men in order to be maintained Page 28
RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES July 2021 Take A Deep Breath By Sr. Mary Franceline Malone, SBS In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was a dark, formless wasteland, but God had plans for it. It was to be home for His children. This wasteland -- a start, but not a very hospitable one. For beauty, fruit and shade, His children would have trees, lots of trees, -- but trees can’t sprout without light. God took care of that! He threw the sun circling around the earth. During the day His children would see marvels unfolding before their eyes and at night, they’d rest those weary eyes. First Father had fun making all kinds of seeds; some to sprout giant trees, others shrubs and plants. Trees would sink roots deep into the moist soil and tasty things would rise up. Wait – moist soil? For life to spring up, it had to get wet! So, the Creator splashed lots of water all over the earth! Let there be LIFE! God filled the earth with flowers, trees, fruits, butterflies, snakes and rabbits, dogs and cats, cows and pigs, wild animals, creeping things, and fish in the sea. When all was ready, in His own image and likeness He created His children – male and female He created them. He took a chance and gave them the ability to think and make decisions. The Bible creation story involves a fruit bearing tree, this article is not about that story. Rather it focuses on the Creator’s lavish gift of trees -- how they make Earth a wonderful place to call home. Did you know trees are often called the “Lungs of Earth”? Remember in grade school we learned that trees and other green plants produce oxygen through photosynthesis. Their leaves also absorb and filter out pollutants and keep the air fresh. Take a deep breath. Your lungs share the oxygen with heart, veins and arteries and off you go. Page 29
RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES July 2021 Take a Deep Breath by Sr. Mary Franceline continued Trees do lots of other things too, like improve water quality and reduce flooding and erosion. By catching precipitation, their leaf canopy slows evaporation before the rain hits the ground. Meanwhile, roots hold the soil in place and check erosion. By reducing the runoff into sewers, streams and rivers, these hard-working trees improve our water quality. According to the National Wildlife Federation “One hundred mature trees can intercept 100,000 gallons of rainfall per year.” Wow! You’re strolling on a hot summer day looking for a place to sit. You spy two benches-- one in the sun and one under a tree. Which will you choose? Why? How does shade lower the temperature and the humidity? Through the cooling effect of slowed down evaporation. Our experience confirms that! One of the hottest places to park a car in July is in a parking lot. Many lot owners squeeze in as many autos as possible to increase their earnings. No room for trees. Yet reserving space for some shade trees can reduce the lot’s surface temperature by 36°F and interior of cars by 47°F (NWF) and, I think, won’t that affect the number of people willing to pay a little more to park there? Who wants to get back into a blazing hot car? Want to reduce the cost of summer’s air conditioning? Plant trees? Really? Yes, but where and how? Place large trees on the house’s sunny- side and they’ll shade it from the hot sun, ergo lower those air- conditioning bills. A bonus, by November they’ve lost their leaves and the winter sun can make your home’s interior cozier so you can lower the thermostat a bit. Conifers, with their year-round needles, placed on the north or northwest side of your home, can cut the wind and lower January’s heating bills. Page 30
RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES July 2021 Take a Deep Breath by Sr. Mary Franceline continued Do elms, maples, oaks and the like have any effect on the economy? Compare the price of homes with trees nearby with those in treeless areas. Homes where trees are part of the neighborhood are valued 9 to 15 percent higher than those divorced from trees. Have a store? Want more customers? “Research shows shoppers lingering longer along a shaded avenue than along one barren of trees and they are willing to pay more for goods and services.” (NWF) Besides benefitting the environment, our comfort level and our economy, what other benefits do trees offer? They create habitat for plants, birds, small animals, improve our health, reduce crime (really?), reduce noise pollution, promote community and help our climate (and that help we really need if we want to leave tomorrow’s children a home here on Earth). Rovers are having trouble finding signs of life on Mars! Here at Paul’s Run, we are blessed with a variety of trees and have benches placed in shady areas. Most of us have spied deer of all sizes, squirrels, ground hogs, cotton tails, lots of robins, sparrows, cat birds, starlings, ravens, crows and of course we’ve heard them too. Recently I spotted a junco among the trees by sunken area. Several days later, I sat down on a bench surrounded by trees. I was about to leave when I saw a small bird fly onto a branch above me. It had a yellow-orange breast with two long black lines on the breast’s either side. I had never seen that bird before, so checking it out in my Peterson’s bird book, I discovered it was a prairie warbler. Page 31
RESIDENT MONTHLY ARTICLES July 2021 Take a Deep Breath by Sr. Mary Franceline continued We often meet other residents on the tree-lined walks at Paul’s Run. Stopping for a greeting, a chat, we get to know one another. While sitting on a shaded bench with camera in my lap, I was disappointed in not seeing any birds one afternoon. Along came another camera lover. We compared starting out using dark rooms, printing our own black and whites, moving up to new cameras which just by opening the lens cap do a lot of our work for us. Yes, having lots of shaded areas with walkways and benches at Paul’s Run convinces me that trees really do create community. Climate! During its lifetime one tree can take in a ton of carbon dioxide! One young tree cannot do much to reverse climate change, but it is a sign of hope. By planting trees together, we build a sense of community and promote environmental responsibility. We Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament no longer own our former school property in Virginia. Before we sold it, a large group of young people came with shovels and saplings and planted fields of native trees in that area near the James River. By their enthusiastic work, they were improving the climate one field at a time, planting hope for the future of Mother Earth, the home of God’s children. What can we do who are no longer living in our own homes? I doubt many of us can be actively engaged in planting trees, but we can encourage it and appreciate what others, like Paul’s Run have accomplished. Let’s get out, talk with each other, admire the trees, the flowers, the birds, and enjoy with each other what Paul’s Run shares with us. And take off the mask! Credit the scientific data with a National Wildlife Federation online article. Page 32
JULY CROSSWORD July 2021 Happy Independence Day Use the clues to fill in the crossword. ACROSS 2. Large outdoor blaze 5. Independence Day sights 6. Five-pointed shapes DOWN 9. Meal at a park 1. Grill over an open fire 10. United States 3. Flag maker Betsy 11. Song of praise 4. of 13. First U.S. president Independence 14. Emancipation 7. Yearly milestone 8. Tent activity 15. Summer month 12. The Statue of 16. Stars’ partners 14. A banner that waves 17. Popular cookout pick Page 33
JUNE CROSSWORD SOLUTION July 2021 Weather Watcher (solution) Page 34
CLASSIFIEDS July 2021 MAIL ISSUES RESIDENTS ARE ASKED TO RETURN TO THE Like Us On RECEPTIONISTS ANY MISDIRECTED DELIVERY FROM Facebook THE UNITED STATES POST OFFICE. THE RECEPTIONISTS WILL ASSURE IT IS RETURNED TO PAUL’S RUN THE POSTAL WORKER FOR DELIVERY TO THE CORRECT RECIPIENT FRIENDLY REMINDER THE GENERAL STORE HOURS OF Our lobby is so OPERATION beautiful. Please be careful when eating or PAUL’S RUN drinking in that area. MONDAY Beauty Shop 10:30AM-3:30PM Thank You. By Appointment Only TUESDAY No Walk-Ins 10:30AM-3:30PM Call Anne Amato WEDNESDAY HOUSE 215-934-3055 KEEPING 10:30AM-3:30PM THURSDAY 10:30AM-3:30PM THE HOUSEKEEPING DEPARTMENT IS ASKING FOR A Request from YOUR COOPERATION IN Maintenance: As much as FRIDAY MAINTAINING A SANITARY we like to hear from you 10:30AM-3:30PM ENVIRONMENT FOR ALL OF OUR RESIDENTS. about repairs you need, we ask that you contact SATURDAY 11AM- REMEMBER TO WASH YOUR the front desk and put in a 3:30PM HANDS FREQUENTLY WITH work order so the repair SOAP AND WATER OR WITH HAND SANITIZER WHEN request gets recorded and SUNDAY 11AM-3:30PM AWAY FROM SOAP AND not forgotten about. WATER. Page 35
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