Kirby Pines Retirement Community | The Pinecone

Congratulations to our CHAMPION of the Month LAVONICA BROWN Medical Supervisor We are extremely happy to announce Lavonica Brown, affectionately known as "L.B.", as our April Champion of the Month! L.B. has been nominated for her unwavering commitment to ensuring the EVS department is well-staffed and running smoothly, no matter the challenges that arise. Since joining Kirby Pines in 2015, L.B. has consistently demonstrated a "can-do" attitude, dedication, and a strong commitment to excellence. Her efforts and positive spirit truly embody what it means to be a Kirby Pines Champion. - Trudy Schenkenberger, Director of Human Resources Describe Your Family: I come from a big family of 16; 11 girls and 5 boys. Describe yourself in five words: Motivated, creative, leader, loyal, team player. What do you do for fun: Plan a movie outing with my grandkids. Do you have any hobbies: Playing volleyball. Your favorite food: Steak. What is your favorite thing about your job: The people here are my second family. Your favorite song: Look at God by Koryn Hawthorne. What is something you are proud of: Completing some of my goals. What would you like people to know about you: I have selective memory, but can be very forgetful. • 8 • The Pinecone | April 2025 Have you heard the BIG news?! Trolls are at the Memphis Botanic Garden to help save the humans. At the great “Trolliefolkyfest” in a secret place, six young trolls made a pact to band together and help save the humans by rediscovering nature and teaching us how to live in harmony with the earth. They recognized the hope within each of us to take action and make positive changes toward a greater future. Lean into the lore that this larger-than-life fairytale brings to the Garden as art, nature, and messages of sustainability intertwine in this unique outdoor exhibition. Ronja Redeye Communicator About Thomas Dambo – Thomas Dambo is considered the world’s leading recycle artist, having been taught from a young age the value of recycling, sustainability, and unlimited imagination. Before embarking on the path of building larger-than-life sculptures, Thomas led a multifaceted life that allowed him to express his creativity via music, street art, and scenic design. After graduating from the Kolding Design School with a master’s degree in interactive design, Thomas began his current journey of using recycled materials to create colorful art installations, building the foundation for his artwork today. Thomas’ vision is to create art that inspires people to go explore, have adventures in nature, and demonstrates that trash can be turned into something beautiful. Today, Thomas is known internationally for his larger-than-life Troll sculptures made from recycled wood. With 87 sculptures all over the world, these Trolls have begun to have a life of their own. Popping up in Denmark, USA, France, Germany, China, South Korea, Chile, and many more on the way, the message of sustainability and unlimited imagination have reached millions through in person visits, shared photos, and international media coverage. Join the Travelers as they head to the Memphis Botanic Gardens for this unique exhibition on Monday, April 14th at 10:15 am - see calendar for details. Kamma Can Creator Ibbi Pip Optimist Rosa Sunfinger Introvert Sofus Lotus Listener Basse Buller Rebel