“The bee is more honored than the other animals, not because she labors, but because she labors for others.” –St. John Chrysostom
One can draw many parallels between the team of hard working volunteers at Pickersgill Retirement Community and the busy life of honey bees. Perhaps that is why it is appropriate that BEES were the theme of this year’s event honoring our remarkable volunteer corps! Pickersgill welcomed over one hundred guests at the annual Appreciation Luncheon on Wednesday, May 10.
Luncheon keynote speaker, Dr. Josephine ‘Jody’ Johnson, known as “the bee expert,” presented a talk titled “What’s Happening to Our Bees?” Dr. Johnson is a Lutherville resident who has a PhD in toxicology from the University of Maryland School of Medicine and is the founder and owner of a Lutherville-based company, Cullaborate LLC, that conducts pollination studies locally as well as around the country. Her recent clients have included Cylburn Arboretum, The Almond Board of California and commercial beekeepers. Through Dr. Johnson’s presentation the audience gained deeper understanding of the crisis that exists for the world’s bee population, the reasons bees are disappearing and the long term concerns. “This is just the type of contemporary issue that the members of our community like to explore and become knowledgeable about,” said Volunteer Coordinator, Lenore D’Adamo.
This was the 15th annual volunteer luncheon and lecture, an event that is anticipated by residents, board members and community volunteers for weeks in advance. Honorees arrived through the main lobby where they were serenaded by the sweet sounds of the Pickersgill Singers which set the tone for a delightful afternoon. Each guest was given a bee pin wear on their lapel. The pins, beautiful creations by needlepoint artist Mae Strom, were made expressly for the occasion.
After guests were seated, Executive Director, Barry Eisenberg, offered sincere thanks to the volunteers stating that “(our volunteers) create a sense of community that binds us all together, they promote the (high) quality of life that we have in abundance. It’s your commitment that makes Pickersgill so special.” The Reverend Ernest Smart gave a witty, heartfelt blessing, and everyone enjoyed a delicious lunch prepared by Chef Richard Blake and the Pickersgill kitchen team. Faye Tully, Board President, presented door prizes and thanked each volunteer for their service and support of Pickersgill.
The spirit of giving to others is central to the ideals that established Pickersgill Retirement Community over two hundred years ago, the volunteers honored at the luncheon carry that spirit forward.
“we must find time to stop and thank the people who make a difference in our lives” –John F. Kennedy
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