December 2008

THE GADSDEN

GAB

Volume 227

President’s Message Myers Hall Read Cloister Cottages/Apartments

2 6 7 9

Arcadia The Chaplain’s Corner Birthdays/Community News

9 11 14

Celebrate the Gift of our Choir this Christmas Barbara Tuck

This Christmas season at Bishop Gadsden, we’ll be celebrating the first anniversary of our choir, a group that we now couldn’t think of being without. It might be said that serendipity played a role in the choir’s initiation. When he was a chef here, Rob Phillips overheard Chance Scrantom and Jeannne Herndon speaking of the possibility of starting a BG choir. Having conducted church and community choral and orchestral programs for 30 years in Canada, Rob introduced himself to Chance and Jeanne and told them that he would be glad to work as choir conductor. Rob, who started singing in choirs at age six, had to give up music because he was having hearing problems with large groups. The BG choir with 12 singers is the perfect size, and Don’t Forget

he says that it fills a creative gap for him. At the same time, Rob’s contribution has given those in the choir the opportunity to lift their voices in song to glorify the Lord. As for the BG congregation, the choir has been a truly wonderful gift. This Christmas Eve, the choir will be singing “The Heavens are Telling” and a special arrangement of Amazing Grace done in counterpoint to Pachelbel’s Canon. We give Rob, who now works full time in food service at the VA Hospital, our thanks for his generosity of spirit. And to the members of our choir, we extend our thanks for offering their time and talent to add to the beauty of the Liturgy in our chapel.

Cotton Candy Day December 7th Christmas December 25th

Chocolate Day December 29th

Our Choir from the left: Rob Phillips, Jackie Jacobs, Jack Cooper, Chance Scrantom, Doris Lifton, Frances Alexander, Jeanne Herndon, June Dickerson, Mary Louise Turner, Jean Howe and Peggy Cooper. View the Gab in color on-line at www.bishopgadsden.org/GAB.pdf

President’s Message Bill Trawick

My article this month is not to be confused with that of our chaplain although I am going to refer to scripture. I think all of us, regardless of our particular faith, become more cognizant of our many blessings—the abundance for which we have to be thankful— during the holiday season which includes Thanksgiving, Hanukkah and Christmas. We who are privileged to live and work at Bishop Gadsden— even amid the changes in the financial, political and social landscape around us that we may or may not agree with and that cause us, too, some degree of anxiety—have far more for which to be thankful than most in the greater community and in our world. However, as the Bible teaches us, “To whom much is given, much is required.” As the priest at my church read the Gospel on Sunday, I could not help but reflect on how Bishop Gadsden, as a community, has responded to the parable of the Last Judgment wherein Christ says to those who are to inherit the kingdom, “I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was

naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.” Bishop Gadsden’s mission states that “we reach out with a generous spirit.” As we enjoy the holidays, we can be thankful that we are part of a community of individuals who believe in this as an ideal and act upon it in very meaningful ways, both collectively and individually. Through our outreach, we have funded and built homes for two families through Habitat for Humanity, assisted the lowest income senior citizens in the Charleston area, provided for women leaving prison to have a safe haven and an opportunity to build a new life, and given to children with burns and other illnesses at MUSC. We have remembered our service men and women in the military overseas with clothing and goodies. We have provided low-cost clothing and housewares through Eliza’s Attic and gifts through our Village Shop, both of which support our ministry of resident assistance. Our resident assistance program has funded nearly $250,000 this year to those in financial need. Our excess food is picked up daily by Crisis Ministries. Our Employee Appreciation Fund has brightened the holidays of our deserving staff. Our Employees Help- Continued on Pg. 10

Report to the Gab regarding Treats for Troops By Dee Garforth This is a “Thank You” to you, which comes from deep in my heart. On November 10 th, we mailed around 50-55 priority mail boxes to our service men and women. Our Sit and Stitch Group, led by Fran Ireland, knitted about 10 helmet caps and 2 scarves for our troops. Great job, ladies!! They also continue to knit caps for the newborn babies at Roper Hospital. Donors this year are: Charles B. Luce, John & Lib Hostutler, Herb & Beryl Arnold, Ursula Holahan, Larry and Ginny Schroeder, Ray and Muriel Willeford, Frances Carlisle, Larry and Edith Montano, Art and Jean Howe, Sarah Tipton, Geoff & Jan Place, Kent Freeman, Eleanor Jaskunas, Louise Crosby, Don and Mary Moore, B. Bower, Taki and Louise Andriadis, Kurt and Joan Wassen, Betty O’Connor, Joan Bailey, E.K. and Jean Wallace, Bill and Jane Gregory, Herb Scholz, Jack and Jackie Bowe, Libby Williams, Jennifer Hartig, Marie Putney, Tish Sansbury, Polly Graustein, Bud and Fran Brawner, Katie and Fred Kelsey, Hank and Lora Moses, Helen Hamer, Ginny Weckel, Mary Louisa Ball, and Bud and Dee Garforth. If anyone’s name was left off, please forgive me. Bishop Gadsden is a retirement community with a tremendous sense of Patriotism and a BIG HEART!!! Thank you all again! MERRY CHRISTMAS, HAPPY HANUKKAH, & HAPPY NEW YEAR 2

View the Gab in color on-line at www.bishopgadsden.org/GAB.pdf

Christmas CHEER? by Nancy Wise Dear People, What follows is the gospel truth and, although it isn’t tendered in the form of a question or a problem, I had to get it off of my chest and y’all are the unfortunate recipients of that need. Today started pretty well, Parkinson’s-Disease-wise. I was able to fix breakfast and feed two hungry golden retrievers as well as three very choosy cats and get the kitchen straightened up before noon. Okay, so I’m slow. Isn’t everyone? I gathered my library book, a covered (and relatively spill-proof) Dr. Pepper, and prepared to settle into my lift chair for a long winter’s nap with my Siamese cat, Blue. But THEN I decided that, since my Christmas tree was up and completely decorated, I’d just waltz on over there and turn it on. That was my first mistake. Leaning over to plug it into a floor outlet, I somehow managed to fall forward into the tree, taking it and me down in a shower of tinsel and decorations. Lollipop, our extremely shy and quite neurotic rescued cat, had been under the tree when it fell and she got tangled up in lights, cords, and other flotsam and jetsam, raising a shriek that would have made a banshee proud. Finally extricating herself from the mess, she streaked off down the hall and shot under the bed. Meanwhile, the tree and I were having quite a time of it trying to regain our upright positions. The tree had less trouble than I did, but it took both of us a lot of energy and time and when we were both upright, I collapsed in a chair for a short rest because I was barely able to breathe by then. Gasping for breath, I surveyed the damage around me and spotted one of the golden retrievers snacking on a gingerbread man. Meanwhile, back at the ranch, I was trying to vacuum the mess in the den when I spotted Lollipop -- who urinates wherever she wants to when she’s upset, coming out of the fireplace, through the little divide in the fire screen curtains, where she had just finished urinating on the very expensive gas logs. Not being able to clean it up because the logs are quite porous, I cleverly decided to light the logs (sans cat, of course) and burn the smell out of them. I put all the dogs and cats out and lighted the logs -- which immediately began to fill the house with the worst smell I have ever encountered. The stench was overwhelming even to me -- and I usually can’t smell anything! I left the logs burning, figuring that HAD to work eventually, turned off all of the heat, and began opening windows to air out the house. At that point, Lucy, our black & white adoptee cat, jumped through the window with a bird in her mouth which escaped, coming to roost in the rafters of our 20-foot ceiling. The dogs were jumping & barking, the cats were trying to get to the beams, the horrible smell was still coming from the burning logs, and the windows were still open. My neighbor called to inquire if there was a problem, my cat started throwing up miscellaneous unidentifiable animal parts, and the bird fell off the rafter (maybe from heart failure), immediately being caught and swallowed by our male Golden Retriever, Chance, feathers and all. I went to the refrigerator and grabbed a wine bottle plus a nearby aspirin bottle, and fleetingly considered either getting drunk or overdosing. Suffice it to say that it all ended, I didn’t get my nap, the mess got cleaned up, the smell finally cleared out of the house, and I called Curtis to say that I would not be cooking dinner tonight because it had been a really awful day. He decided to stop by for a short visit with Colonel Chicken and arrived home with a bucket of grease and the information that we were having 40 guests that coming Saturday night for a “drop in” between 6:00 and 9:00 PM -- which he imagined I’d need to plan for. Oh, yes. One more thing. The dog vomited bird feathers and parts on the new oriental rug, but by then Curtis had gotten home, and I magnanimously told him he could clean it up. If any of you have the 800 number for the Witness Protection Program, please send it post haste. Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and God bless us everyone. View the Gab in color on-line at www.bishopgadsden.org/GAB.pdf

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December Birthdays! Bess Burrows Clarice Foster Fran Pfaff Jarvis Egan Michael Hazzard Gordon Lyle Dick McLaren Molly Stender Joan Middleton John Smith Bob Clement Marion Jones Corinne Petit Frances Brawner Elizabeth S. Williams Margaret Williams Joan Hubbard Nancy Attaway Charlie Luce

1 4 4 6 9 10 11 12 13 13 14 14 15 15 15 15 16 16 17

Adele Grimball Jackie Mappus Bettye Mitchell Peggy Magathan Edna Wiggins Jo An Cushman Martha Ann Heyward Carol Ragsdale Ted Stern Essie Boykin Noel Ferguson Claire Irwin Jim Aichele Ruth Walker Bill Thomas Joyce East Maynard Pearlstine Larry Schroeder

20 20 20 23 24 25 25 25 25 26 26 27 27 28 29 31 31 31

Planning for 2009 - Your Help Will be Needed! Kimberly Farfone, Director of Development & Public Relations

The Office of Development & PR wishes to express our thanks to those who helped us meet the need for resident assistance in 2008. The challenge was set and through your monthly giving, your contributions to our Mothers and Fathers Day Appeal, memorial contributions and your other acts of generosity throughout the year, you raised an estimated $250,000, this allowed for the BG Resident Assistance Fund to support nine of your fellow residents. Now, as we plan for 2009, it is clear that our challenge will be even greater. Just as each of you may be affected by the instability in our economy, we believe that the need for 2009 will grow by an estimated 20%. Therefore, our goal will be to raise $330,000. Your help will be needed in 2009, and we would like to ask you to consider any of the following options which would be a great help to us and our ministry of resident assistance. You can make a donation now if you choose. ~If you are a resident, you can submit your 2009 Monthly Giving Form (sent to you the first week of December) that will allow you to 4

spread your gift out through the year. ~Follow the lead of fellow residents, and take all or a portion of your 3% credit and donate it back to the Resident Assistance Fund. ~If you are 70 ½, you can make a charitable gift directly from your IRA of up to $100,000 per year without any tax penalty. ~You can also contribute to the Guerry Endowment (supports the Resident Assistance Fund) by setting up a Charitable Gift Annuity with BG. As always, any gift is most appreciated. While uncertainty in the financial markets has affected everyone, we must ensure that we are able to keep current residents here at Bishop Gadsden. Please plan to support this most important aspect of our ministry in 2009. If you should have any questions or would like to discuss any of the options outlined above, please contact me at 406-6334, or stop by my office located across from Blackmer Hall. The Office of Development & Public Relations wishes you and your family a very blessed Christmas Season and thanks you again for your generosity throughout 2008.

View the Gab in color on-line at www.bishopgadsden.org/GAB.pdf

Master Craftsman & BG Resident receives honor from the Embroiderers Guild of America

Jackie Jacobs recently received the Magnolia Award at the Coastal Carolina Fair in honor of her contribution to the Magnolia Chapter of the Embroiderers Guild. Her chapter decided to honor her this year by displaying the steps Jackie used in order to achieve this title and certification of A Master Craftsman. The display educated the public on Jackie’s personal aspirations towards this achievement by showing how comprehensive this process can be. Jackie has described in her own words below the steps she took to obtain this goal: When considering the Master Craftsmen’s Program, I was made aware that obtaining this recognition would require 6 projects over a span of 6 to 8 years. I started this adventure in May 1987 and finished it in April 1994. Since my primary interest was in canvas embroidery, I selected Canvas I from a list offered for achieving Master Craftsmen for the Embroiderers’ Guild of America, Inc. (EGA). With the Canvas I selection it was also recommended that I take two additional courses. These c o u r s e s were: Design

and Color. I was assigned Ann Harris as my teacher. Once I began the Master Craftsman process, I worked on Canvas I and Color courses simultaneously. After finishing the Color course I then continued with the Design course. My notebooks for both Color and Design courses are included. They are the ones shown in the cases with the rainbow design on the cover. The Canvas I project included 6 different steps ranging from a simple canvas and becoming more complex through the steps of the program. The final canvas, project #6, - Rosie the Camel (shown in the case) was considered my masterpiece. Rosie the Camel was an original design. I created the design on the canvas and then stitched the design according to certain specifications given to me by the teachers. Each of the 6 steps were judged by 3 different teachers who specialized in Canvas Embroidery. Each teacher graded the project with a pass, fail or pass w/corrections. If the project received a PASS, then I went to the next project. If the project received a pass w/ corrections, I needed to make the requested changes in the project and resubmit the project to be graded. Once the project was approved by the three teachers, I was sent the subsequent project.

View the Gab in color on-line at www.bishopgadsden.org/GAB.pdf

Jackie’s chapter showcased her work at the Coastal Carolina Fair.

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Myers Hall Calendar Cynthia Marterre

Dec 4 We’ll be trimming our Christmas Tree in the Myers Hall Living Room. Come help us! Dec 6 Gary West will present a concert of seasonal favorites for your enjoyment. Dec 7 Lessons and Carols will be shared by the Grace Church Choir in our Chapel. Dec 9 An Afternoon of Art with Mindy. All supplies are provided — just bring your creativity. Dec 10 Trip to The Church of the Good Shepherd for seasonal music and a delicious luncheon. Dec 12 The Advisory Council hosts their annual Christmas Party for Myers Hall residents. Let’s show them our appreciation for all they do for us by attending. Dec 16 Kay and Duncan Weeks return to share a Holiday Concert of duets. Don’t miss them! Dec 16 Trip to see the Holiday Festival of Lights at the James Island County Park. Please sign up. Dec 18 Current Events discussion with our faithful volunteer Noel Ferguson. It’s always interesting. Dec 20 The Youth Group from St. Philip’s Church will visit to spread some Christmas cheer. Dec 24 Christmas Eve Eucharist Service led by Father Frank Russ in our Chapel. Dec 29 Christmas Afterglow in the Living Room around our beautiful Christmas tree. Dec 31 New Year’s Eve Party in the Frederick Dining Room with fun for all! Our theme is “Roaring 20’s” so put on your beads & feathers and join us as we ring in 2009! BE SURE TO CHECK YOUR WEEKLY AND DAILY SCHEDULES FOR MORE.

The Friday afternoon Happy Hours for Myers Hall, the Cloister & Arcadia residents were cosponsored by Holy Communion and Holy Trinity during the month of November. The delicious treats served by the volunteers were a hit with everybody. Thanks so much!

Shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child Myers Hall residents filled 22 shoeboxes to donate to Samaritan’s Purse for their Operation Christmas Child project.

Dolls, balls,

socks and lots of love are packed in and sent to children around the world.

Thanks to all

who donated their time and money to help us accomplish our annual endeavor. Pictured are Jenny Juhasz and Ann Zlatoper (top left), Carrie Stegall (bottom left) and Nell Gunter (top right).

We truly agree with Ethel Van

Deusen Humiston as she wrote: I surely wish with all my heart, This day of Jesus’ birth, That peace and love and happiness 6

Soon cover all the earth. View the Gab in color on-line at www.bishopgadsden.org/GAB.pdf

Read Cloister Christy Smith

Fall into Fashion Residents and staff alike enjoyed the Eliza’s Attic Fall Fashion Show on November 12. Models pictured above L-R are our very own BG employees: Perry from Environmental Services, Jennifer from Wellness Center and Terry Sue in Dining Services. They are looking sharp and ready for the Fall Season. REMINDER TO OUR CLOISTER FAMILIES Please RSVP for the Holiday Dinner on 12/11 by 12/4. You may call Christy at 406.6272 or Carol at 406.2359. We hope to hear from you soon!

On the left is a snapshot from our Employees Helping Employees Bake Sale Fundraiser. Tasty Treats were made by residents, families and staff and enjoyed by ALL. Happy Fall Ya’ll Pictured right are Erl Hoefler from Myers Hall with Belle enjoying a front row seat at the Eliza’s Attic Fall Fashion Show. View the Gab in color on-line at www.bishopgadsden.org/GAB.pdf

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Have you [m]Powered Today? Jennifer Hartig

Medical research studies conducted over the past decade conclude that seniors who consistently engage in rigorous cognitive exercise over the long term can reduce their risk of dementia by as much as 63%. Developed just for seniors, the [m]Power cognitive fitness system transforms standardized neurological tests and exercises into highly produced, truly compelling and really fun games in six cognitive domains. [m]Power takes the hassle out of brain fitness. It self-adjusts the level of challenge in real time, so players are always at the optimal level-always stimulating but never too difficult or too easy. Stop by the Lewis Fitness Center between 8 AM and 5 PM Monday through Friday to try the [m]Power. If you try it and like it, we’ll set you up with your own profile that will customize a program for your cognitive level. This is another great advantage of life here at Bishop Gadsden, as this program was donated by a generous family as part of our variety of wellness programs offered. The system is very user-friendly, so even if you have no computer experience you will be a pro in no time!

Meet the Staff: Susan Gallo Taki Andriadis

Susan Gallo is our new Human Resources Director. She was born in Wilson, NC and comes from a family of North Carolinians. Her father was a tobacco grower and trader traveling around the world selling and buying tobacco. Susan graduated from Peace Junior College majoring in Psychology. She later attended UNC at Chapel Hill where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. After graduation, Susan joined the Aston Johnston Company, in N. Charleston which manufactures paper machine clothing. Initially, Susan planned to stay for six months, but she stayed for more than 18 years. She joined Bishop Gadsden in October 2008. As Human Resources Director, she will be responsible for employment of staff, compensation and benefits, succession planning and many others. 8

Susan’s husband Steve was born in Charleston and graduated from Clemson with an engineering degree. He is now employed by the Robert Bosch Company, located in North Charleston which makes products for the automotive industry, such as anti-lock braking systems and fuel injectors. The Gallos have two young children - Gavin, eight months old and Georgia, three years old. They attend Ashley River Baptist Elementary School. Susan is very happy in her new job. She finds the atmosphere at Bishop Gadsden very friendly and the management and staff very cooperative and supportive. We welcome Susan Gallo and wish her success in her new position.

View the Gab in color on-line at www.bishopgadsden.org/GAB.pdf

Compliments and Thanks to BG Rehab. Two weeks after a total knee replacement, I went back to my surgeon for a follow-up visit, and he was very impressed with my progress and the rehab treatment I had received at BG Rehab. He said that after two weeks, I was as far along as some of his clients have been at 6 wks. This is a real testimonial to the job that Lucy and Mark do. Mason Alexander

Activities: Apartment & Cottages Gail Strickland

November was packed with incredible outings as the Charleston Concert Association began its season, bringing us the Warsaw Philharmonic. Many of you have commented to me that it far exceeded any other concert you have ever attended. Many insightful programs were held here during the past month including talks with Gibbes Art Museum Executive Director, Angela Mack, College of Charleston’s art history expert, Michael Haga and the Shepherd’s Center programs. Our month not only ended with many thanks, but with many laughs shared at the quarterly birthday party. This holiday season will be felt throughout our community with activities and events scheduled for December. Outings include the Vienna Boys Choir, Citadel Candlelight Service, CSO Gospel Choir, “A Christmas in Wales” and many trips to the James Island County Park to see the Christmas lights. Jack Cooper is our host for the outings to the park and shares with us his knowledge of the displays, providing us with a very special insight into the history and particulars of each. We also have many programs at Bishop Gadsden which are sure to be inspiring, including the Tree Trimming, Christmas Carols with Frances Carlisle and Nelloise Disney, and Andrew Armstrong’s performance in the Chapel. Please be sure to check the weekly activity calendar for a list of these, plus more information regarding activities at Bishop Gadsden Apartments and Cottages.

Arcadia Close Kay Jenkins

The Christmas season in Arcadia Close will begin with a bang! The Family Christmas Dinner will be on December 4th with delicious food from Dining Services and music by pianist Lawson Roberts. The festivities this year will include a drive through the light show at the James Island County Park, a treetrimming Happy Hour with the Cloister, caroling, an Andrew Armstrong concert, Lessons and Carols, Gary West, Olde Pipes Consort, the Bel Canto Christmas Chorus, and many performances by children. Check the calendar on our website and join your resident for some of the activities. We will not have a family meeting in December during the busy season. Look for a mailing before January with dates for the 2009 meetings. View the Gab in color on-line at www.bishopgadsden.org/GAB.pdf

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New Resident: Frank Saltarelli Marilou Watts

Frank Saltarelli has lived at Bishop Gadsden for only six months and is already a Bocce Champion. He was born in Jamestown, NY, and went to the University of Buffalo before joining the Navy where he was a pilot in the Pacific Theatre before the war. Frank’s career with General Motors took him to many cities including Pittsburgh, PA, where he met his wife Dorothy. They were married for 41 years. He has been a widower for several years. Frank is a swimmer and loves to hike in the Rockies. He travels a lot and plans to spend Christmas in Boulder, CO. With a name like Saltarelli, he thinks people might be surprised to know that his father was a Baptist Minister for 50 years, and his grandfather started the first Italian Baptist Church in the United States in 1870. Frank finds Bishop Gadsden a cheerful place with something to do all the time. He likes happy hour and the movies. His philosophy is to enjoy life to the fullest and try to see the best in everything. He has only one problem - he says he is getting too fat.

New Resident: John Coussons Barbara Tuck

Born in Louisiana, Dr. John Coussons was ready to get his Masters in History when he was mobilized in the Naval Reserve during the Korean War. He went to OCS and served for more than three years. Back at LSU, John had already taken a job with West Texas State when Dr. Davis, head of the History Dep’t, called him into his office. Dr. Davis had just read an article about General Mark W. Clark taking over at the Citadel in the Christmas issue of Life Magazine, and he thought an opening in the History Dep’t at the Citadel was just made for John. So on the July 4th weekend of 1952, John first came to Charleston. He stayed at the Francis Marion Hotel for $5 a night, and his first impression of the city was that “the paint people hadn’t found this place.” But when he entered Bond Hall at the Citadel and saw a cannon with a plaque that said it “had been fired into the city by the Abolitionist Fleet and returned to the Citadel by the Secretary of the Navy under Woodrow Wilson,” the history buff in John was intrigued, and he took the job. Except for several years of absence while John went back to LSU to earn his PhD and when he was recalled into the Naval Reserve once more, John called The Citadel home. He became head of the History Dep’t there and “loved every minute of it.” After teaching at the Citadel for so many years, John has lots of surrogate children. 10

Please join us for our annual Tree trimming December 4th at 4:30 in the Gussenhoven Living Room. If you would like to donate an old Christmas Ornament to our collection, please bring it with you to our gathering. Hope to see everyone there!

President’s Message continued from Page 2

ing Employees Fund has assisted co-workers in times of unexpected financial setbacks. The acts of kindness and generosity go on and on, some known, many more unknown. There is no way for us to say “Thanks be to God” enough as our blessings are too abundant and too profound for us even to imagine. However, as we enter this season of thanksgiving, just to be part of a community that acknowledges both its many blessings and believes in “reaching out with a generous spirit” feels like a good place to be.

View the Gab in color on-line at www.bishopgadsden.org/GAB.pdf

The Cobbler and His Guest Father Frank Russ

We will soon celebrate the mystery of the Incarnation— God taking on the flesh of our humanity in the person of Jesus Christ. I’d like to share a favorite Christmas story with you that illustrates the miracle of the Incarnation in our world today. There once lived in the city of Marseilles an old shoemaker, loved and honored by his neighbors who affectionately called him, "Father Martin". One Christmas Eve, as he sat alone in his little shop reading of the visit of the Wise Men to the infant Jesus, and of the gifts they brought, he said to himself, "If tomorrow were the first Christmas, and if Jesus were to be born in Marseilles this night, I know what I would give Him!" He rose from his stool and took from a shelf overhead two tiny shoes of softest snow-white leather, with bright silver buckles. "I would give Him these, my finest work." Replacing the shoes, he blew out the candle and retired to rest. Hardly had he closed his eyes, it seemed, when he heard a voice call his name..."Martin! Martin!" Intuitively he felt a presence. Then the voice spoke again..."Martin, you have wished to see Me. Tomorrow, I shall pass by your window. If you see Me, and bid Me enter, I shall be your guest at your table." Father Martin did not sleep that night for joy. And before it was yet dawn, he rose and swept and tidied up his little shop. He spread fresh sand upon the floor and wreathed green boughs of fir along the rafters. On the spotless linen-covered table, he placed a loaf of white bread, a jar of honey and a pitcher of milk, and over the fire he hung a pot of tea. Then he took up his patient vigil at the window. Presently he saw an old street-sweeper pass by, blowing upon his thin, gnarled hands to

warm them. "Poor fellow, he must be half frozen," thought Martin. Opening the door he called out to him, "Come in, my friend, and warm yourself, and drink a cup of hot tea." And the man gratefully accepted the invitation. An hour passed, and Martin saw a young, miserably clothed woman carrying a baby. She paused wearily to rest in the shelter of his doorway. The heart of the old cobbler was touched. Quickly he flung open the door. "Come in and warm yourself while you rest, you do not look well," he remarked. "I am going to the hospital. I hope they will take me in and my baby boy," she explained. "My husband is at sea, and I am ill, without a soul." "Poor child!" cried Father Martin. "You must eat something while you are getting warm. No, then let me give a cup of milk to the little one. Ah! What a bright, pretty fellow he is! Why, you have put no shoes on him!" "I have no shoes for him," sighed the mother sadly. "Then he shall have this lovely pair I finished yesterday." And Father Martin took down from the shelf the soft little snow-white shoes he had admired the evening before. He slipped them on the child's feet...they fit perfectly. And shortly the poor young mother left, two shoes in her hand and tearful with gratitude. And Father Martin resumed his post at the window. Hour after hour went by, and although many people passed his window, and many needy souls shared his hospitality, the expected Guest did not appear. "It was only a dream," he sighed, with a heavy heart. "I did not believe; but he has not come." Suddenly, so it seemed to his weary eyes, the room was flooded with a strange light. And to the cobbler's astonished vision, there appeared before him, one by one, the poor street-sweeper, the sick mother and her child, Continued on Pg. 12

View the Gab in color on-line at www.bishopgadsden.org/GAB.pdf

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Cobbler story continued from Page 11

and all the people whom he had aided during the day. And each smiled at him and said, "Have you not seen me? Did I not sit at your table?" Then they vanished. At last, out of the silence, Father Martin heard again the gentle voice repeating the old familiar words. "Whosoever shall receive one such in My name, receiveth Me...for I was hungry, and ye gave Me meat; I was athirst, and ye gave Me drink; I was a stranger, and ye took Me in...verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these, ye have done it unto Me" (from Matthew chapter 25).Have a joyous and blessed Christmas! Share the spirit of the season with someone.

Special Holiday Services in the Chapel ~Sunday, December 7 at 4:00 p.m. - A Festival of Lessons and Carols with the St. Gregory Choir of Grace Episcopal Church, Dr. Scott Bennett, director. The Rev. Canon Michael Wright, rector will be the officiant. ~Christmas Eve, December 24 at 4:30 p.m. - Festival Celebration of the Holy Eucharist. Carol singing will begin at 4:00 p.m. If you would like to give poinsettias or wreaths in honor or in memory of someone special, order forms are available on Sundays at the chapel, or you may call Rosa Barnes at 406-2467.

THE MUSC SENIOR MENTOR PROGRAM We are looking for new mentors for first year medical students. In 2007 enough BG residents volunteered to serve as mentors for almost an entire class of firstyear medical students. The program is recruiting mentors now for January 2009. Deronda Corbin will be at BG on Monday, December 15 at 4pm in Blackmer Hall to answer questions and sign you up. You can contact Deronda at (843) 7923699 or visit the Center on Aging Website, www.musc.edu/aging/ for more information. Margaret Kunes will also have information about this program and you can stop by her office or reach her by calling 406-2454.

WHAT IS THE SENIOR MENTOR PROGRAM? The Senior Mentor Program is a volunteer program that connects medical students from the Medical University of South Carolina with people aged 65 years and older living in the greater Charleston, SC area. The goals of the program are: To encourage medical students to have positive attitudes about caring for older adults. To help reduce stereotypes about aging. To improve the way future doctors care for older persons.

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View the Gab in color on-line at www.bishopgadsden.org/GAB.pdf

Book Review by Marilou Watts Bishop Gadsden is a community of readers. Our library is a busy place. Therefore, most folks here are glad to hear of a wonderful book that is fun, easy to read and enriches our lives. The book to read is The Madonnas of Leningrad by Debra Dean. Marina, an elderly Russian woman who has raised her family and lived in America for many years, now has trouble with her memory from minute to minute. Her mind takes her back to her youth in Leningrad where she was a docent in the Hermitage. While she struggles with the here and now, her grandchild’s wedding in the present, her mind takes us on a tour of the Hermitage and a description of the marvelous art there. She remembers the hardships of 1941 when Leningrad was besieged by the Germans and how she and her lover were reunited after being separated by the war. We get a glimpse of the Hermitage and a little history of WWII. The love and support of her daughter and husband will be an inspiration to us all as we read this beautifully written and wellcrafted book.

Do you Still Need to buy Christmas Cards? You do not have to leave Bishop Gadsden or fight the crowds: Christmas cards, designed by Bishop Gadsden residents, are available at the Village Shop and Eliza’s Attic. Cost is only $10 per package of 10 cards and envelopes. All proceeds from the sale of the cards go to the Resident Assistance Fund.

Notice: Phone solicitations are likely to pick up as the holiday season has arrived and we are approaching the end of the year. Remember not to conduct business over the phone. It is always better to request printed materials. And if it sounds too good to be true most likely it is. Always consult a friend or family member before making a donation or purchase from an unfamiliar organization.

IN LOVING MEMORY

Janet Richardson January 5, 1931 ~ October 31, 2008  Dr. EK Wallace August 16, 1923 ~ November 14, 2008  Diane Piet June 2, 1932 ~ November 10, 2008

Dr. Bill Logothetis November 8, 1931 ~ November 25, 2008  Elephare Zimmerman July 10, 1921 ~ November 28, 2008  Dr. Charlie Jumper November 4, 1934~ November 29, 2008

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Jack Cooper’s long connection with the Holiday al v i t s e

of

s ight By: Barbara Tuck

Jack and Peggy Cooper first became volunteers at James Island County Park a dozen years ago as Campground Hosts for three months of the year. That evolved into being volunteers for the Holiday Festival of Lights which began modestly and now has 300 light displays all designed (and some animated) by artist Rich Robb. It takes five or six weeks for volunteers from around the country to prepare the displays (with two million bulbs), and after all this time, Jack says it’s a new thrill each year when the lights are turned on. Dubbed Low Jack now because he sits on a walker or stool while changing bulbs, Jack says he’s just loved being part of it all. The star of the show, in his opinion, is the Ravenel Bridge display, with lights going from the new bridge to the old bridges behind it—“It just brings tears to your eyes,” says Jack. Jack describes the details of the displays on bus rides through the park. Be sure to sign up.

Come Celebrate Chanukah at Bishop Gadsden The first night of Chanukah is Sunday, December 21. On that day, at Sunday Brunch, not only will brisket be on the Buffet, but the Action Station will be preparing latkes (potato pancakes). Since Chanukah is the celebration of the miracle of a little bit of oil lasting eight days and nights, traditional foods for this holiday are cooked in oil, like the latkes. If you have not ever eaten a latke you are in for a special treat. Then on Tuesday evening, December 23, we will light the Bishop Gadsden menorah in the Gussenhoven Living Room at 5:15 pm. Everyone is invited to join in this fun ceremony, hear about traditional prayers, songs and games. So plan on enjoying the food and all the traditions.

Update Meetings

elcome Apt/ Cottages Peter & Anne Moss 15 Charlie Drayton 14

Myers Hall 1062

795-5010

No Meetings this Month!

406-6364

View the Gab in color on-line at www.bishopgadsden.org/GAB.pdf

This year I resolve to buy new bedroom shoes. I want the kind that look like my feet are being eaten by huge, mutant rabbits. This year I promise to stop going to the jewelry store for breakfast. I propose a “beef cake” calendar this year, one that will photograph the most handsome men at Bishop Gadsden. In Speedos. Instead of traveling to Paris or Rome, which have been overdone in my experience, I plan to lead elderly groups through interesting trouble spots of the world. We will visit any number of foreign capitals in the process of bloody coups, wars, and/or other power struggles. Insertion will be by air; we will fly over the trouble spots and push you out. Parachutes will be provided, but they will carry an additional surcharge. Another resolution on my list is to bungee jump from the railroad bridge which separates Zaire from Zimbabwe. Nobody ever tries it except crazy Americans. If the jump doesn’t kill you, the rebel sharpshooters will.

I promise to ask my friends to stop swimming in the Pineapple Fountain.

I promise to stop trying to push my rolls of flab into girdles and any other kind of “shape wear.” If God had intended me to have a shape, he would have given me one. In the year 2009, I plan to go to McDonalds and order champagne with my fries. Heck! I’ll probably wear my new Rabbit slippers. Also, this year I intend to have Comcast block all political programming for the next century-- unless it's a political penguin. Research indicates that pets lower blood pressure so I intend to present Bishop Gadsden with a whole herd of tap-dancing penguins in rabbit slippers. Ten percent of all proceeds will go to needy penguins who don’t have any rabbit slippers.

By Nancy Wise View the Gab in color on-line at www.bishopgadsden.org/GAB.pdf

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Don’t Forget Eliza’s Attic! Please remember Eliza’s Attic (BG’s Thrift Store) takes ALL household goods. We will take and sort through anything - so when you’re cleaning out your closet or making room for those new Christmas presents, don’t forget to give us a call. If you have any questions, please call Martha Roberts at 795-7996.

There is interest in starting a Chess Club. If you are a chess player, please contact Mindy Crawford at 406-6647.

The Gadsden Gab is a monthly publication written by and for the residents of Bishop Gadsden. Submissions are welcomed from all residents and are used on a space-available basis. Committee members are: Barbara Tuck, Editor Kent Freeman

Tommy Thorne

Suzanne Mersereau

Caroline Meyer

Joan Knauer

Dan McKnight

Marilou Watts

Goodie DiRaddo, Photographer

Katie Jayne, Managing Editor

Taki Andriadis

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View the Gab in color on-line at www.bishopgadsden.org/GAB.pdf