Judy Collins provides 'sweet conclusion'

For many of us, summer is our favorite time of year on the barrier island. No lines at our favorite restaurants. No traffic. Warm ocean waters to swim in, and miles of empty beaches.

But where have all our snowbirds gone? To cottages on Nantucket? Lake houses on the UP of Michigan? Mountain homes in North Carolina? It would be fun to know where the largest clusters of our seasonal residents gather in the summer. I’m going to make finding out a project for next winter.

I know two of our snowbirds, David and Barbara Morgan, head back to Manhattan. Before they left Vero, they hosted a gorgeous brunch for their long time friend, Judy Collins. I bet she could create a beautiful summer theme song for Vero Beach called “Where have all the snowbirds gone?”

Judy was in town for a concert to benefit the Mental Health Association of Indian River County. The packed audience at the Riverside Theatre got a substantial taste of this exquisite creative genius, who is extraordinarily gifted with a voice unlike any other.

When you hear a song like Both Sides Now, you immediately are transported to a special moment in your personal history. And that is what made the concert so special… you were connecting with parts of your own past, as you sat there in the year 2008, listening to this cultural icon.

But the morning after the event, in the living room of the Morgan’s beautiful waterfront home in The Shores, 20 supporters of the association and I got more than just a taste of Judy Collins’s talents. We were treated to “dessert”…..or what a 100 year old friend of mine calls “a sweet conclusion.”

When does anyone get to hear Judy Collins sing Amazing Grace in a living room? For one hour, Judy spoke of her history with alcohol abuse and the difficulties many people, especially creative people, seem to face with mental health issues, including her own attempt at suicide.

She talked about the importance of getting help, and how she conquered her demons with the help of great therapy, and a healthier way of living….including lots of exercise and healthy eating.

Her son was not as fortunate, as he committed suicide in his thirties. She spoke her truth about all her issues, and challenges. Her candor made everyone in the room feel honored to be in the company of such a creative and sensitive warrior.

Then without any fanfare, she started to sign Amazing Grace a capella. There were many who cried. Witnessing perfection can do that.

Bravo to the Mental Health Association for increasing awareness of mental health issues that affect almost all of us.

This organization always manages to inspire us with creative and unforgettable moments, bring us the wonderful painted turtles that brighten our community. Ellen Collins, and Nancy Ofsie were co-chairs of this year’s gala, and they pulled off another winner.

The May Pops event at Windsor on- May 4th to benefit the Indian River Hospital Foundation was a huge success (see Pops story). I spoke with Helen Post, the former Chairman of their Board, about this annual event.

We both agreed on the importance of having reasonably priced events for all members of our community, and the lawn tickets for $25 are always well worth the price of admission.

A highlight for the audience was watching all the young children (admitted free) dance on the grass in front of the stage. Watching the little ones twirl and prance to live music on the gorgeous Windsor field ranks right up there with the gardenias as a springtime Vero treat.

“Going Green” was the theme of the Environmental Learning Center’s annual event on April 12th. Over $90,000 was raised for the ELC’s environmental education programs. Once again, it’s the pure creativity of those who create these events, that make them so successful.

This year it was Tuny Hill and Alice Cole, who co-chaired the festive evening. Bill Clary, magician, illusionist and comedian, entertained guests – who also danced to the music of LEGGZ, which made its Vero Beach debut – and Clary later served as auctioneer for a Silent Auction and drawing for a $4,200 necklace.

One of just seven items auctioned was the coveted Bell Puzzle Table, designed by the renowned designer Robin Bell. The table was hand crafted by The Hill Group for the event. Toby Hill generously agreed to make a second one when King and Dace Stubbs offered up an additional bid.

One thing for certain, Vero Beach residents have good taste, and an appreciation for rare creative talent. These Bell Puzzle Tables can be found in the White House and at Camp David, and they are so rare, that they are never for sale.

Everyone seemed to have had a blast at the annual St. Edward’s School benefit on May 2nd. In keeping with the Cuban theme of “Havana Nights”, I hear the party was hopping, magically nocturnal, and most importantly a financial success.

Summer seems to have come early this year, but by the time you read this, the rains will have started. We certainly have been looking forward to some nice rain clouds, as the island was very dry as May drew to an end.

I told Judy Collins that when I was a kid, I thought she was singing “Send in the Clouds” and she smiled. (I am sure I am not the first to tell her they had confused “clouds” and “clowns.”)

But the summer rains are welcome, as will be the return of our snowbirds in the fall. Just be patient with us when you get back. It takes us awhile to get used to all the commotion and excitement of the season.

Until the next moment,

Leslie