Kirby Pines Retirement Community | The Pinecone

This month, the United States will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, first adopted in Philadelphia on July 4, 1776. Known as America 250, this historic milestone honors the nation’s founding principles of liberty and self-government while also reflecting on how those ideals have evolved over two and a half centuries. Through exhibitions, public programs, and community initiatives across the country, the semiquincentennial will serve as both a celebration of American history and an invitation to consider the nation’s continuing pursuit of a more perfect Union. Independence is the ability to care for your own needs, make your own decisions, and accept responsibility for those decisions while remaining mindful of the people and environment around you. Living in a community like Kirby Pines, however, reminds us that even independent people rely on others. We depend on friends, family, and staff for companionship, entertainment, and care. We also rely on one another as neighbors, creating a community where everyone looks out for each other so that we can all feel safe, happy, and loved. Our front cover features Maury and Barbara Phillips proudly showing their patriotic spirit during our America 250 photoshoot. As you can see, they have a deep love for the United States. We also extend our sincere thanks to Maury for his service in the U.S. Army. Our back covers reflect the tremendous pride and loyalty that our residents share for both their community and their country. In America We Trust - God Bless the USA! INSIDE THIS MONTH’S PINECONE America 250, officially known as the semiquincentennial, marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. As the nation approaches this historic milestone on July 4th, the question of “What it means to me” has sparked a massive nationwide dialogue. Today, I want to give you my impression of what it means to our residents and staff here at Kirby Pines. We celebrate the diversity of our cultures, yet come together as a United Community, where varying opinions canbe sharedopenly and respected. We live in an imperfect city, state and nation, but our country is the best by far. We pray for it every day. We proudly display our flag. Naturally. Respectfully. It is part of who we are. There are things that concern us, we are uncomfortable with the level of public discord between the parties yet support the right of everyone’s opinion. We celebrate all of our Veterans, especially America 250 & What It Means to Me those 78 who live at Kirby Pines. We support our law enforcement and first responders, in all sizes, shapes, and uniforms. On July 1st through July 5th, we will all be wearing red, white, and blue. On Friday, July 3rd, at 6:00 pm, please consider joining us for a night of “Jubilation Jazz!” Reservations are required, but what a way to kick off this “Once in a Lifetime Celebration!” Even if you cannot join us, please find a moment to wish this GREAT, yet imperfect nation of ours a very “Happy Birthday!!” Michael J. Brown, Jr. Executive Director, Kirby Pines at Kirby Pines • 2 • The Pinecone | July 2026 John & Jody Sosh are ready for the 4th of July! Kirby Pines Celebrates Independence BOARD OF DIRECTORS S Dr. James Latimer, Chairman Mr. Rudy Herzke, President Mr. Larry Braughton Mr. Bob Dalhoff Mr. Jim Ethridge Ms. Linda Harrington Ms. Mary Ann Hodges Mr. Rusty Linkous Mr. Brian Lowery RCA STAFF Charlie Trammell President, RCA Michélle Vincent Executive Vice President, RCA Tim Cox Senior Vice President of Finance, RCA Michael Kelly Vice President of Finance, RCA KIRBY PINES STAFF Michael Brown Executive Director, Kirby Pines Mike Abutineh, M.D. Medical Director Deniece Caldwell Healthcare Administrator Ann Marie Bishop Director of Accounting Harold Morris Director of Culinary Mike Rayder Director of Grounds & Landscaping Kayla Holland Director of Hospitality & Life Enhancement Trudy Schenkenberger Director of Human Resources Chuck Neeley Director of Maintenance Anna Bradford Director of Nursing This magazine is produced by RCA 6465 N. Quail Hollow Rd., Suite 400 Memphis, TN 38120, 901-794-2598 Electronic version of The Pinecone is available at www.kirbypines.com