Gilbert a Presence at Jacob's Outlook Opening

Gordon Gilbert wasn't about to miss one of the biggest days in the history of his beloved Gumbo Limbo Nature Center.

Unable to attend in person, the 93-year-old Gilbert took advantage of modern technology to enjoy the Jacob's Outlook ribbon cutting via Facetime.

“To view it really warmed my heart,” Gilbert said. “And just to see all the different people and what they had to say about it, it was marvelous.”

A District Commissioner from 1978 - when Governor Bob Graham appointed him - until 2008, Gilbert is the visionary behind Gumbo Limbo. He served as the center's director from its opening in 1984 until his 2003 retirement.

A marine biology educator most of his life, including a stint at Boca Raton High School, Gilbert moved to the Memphis, Tenn., area a couple of years ago to be closer to his daughter.

About 15 minutes before the ribbon cutting, Gilbert's good friend Connie Talcott Smith held her phone high as she entered the Gumbo Limbo Center, allowing Gilbert to “experience” the festivities via Facetime.

As soon as event attendees saw who was on the other end of the phone, dignitaries and staffers alike flocked to Talcott Smith to get a few moments to chat with their friend.

“Technology is a wonderful thing that we get to enjoy Gordon's company even though he's hundreds of miles away,” District Commissioner Suzi Vogelgesang said. “I think he's always going to be a part of Gumbo Limbo in spirit.”

Boca Raton Mayor Scott Singer and several of the city council members made sure to visit with Gilbert.

Following the ribbon cutting, Talcott Smith took Gilbert for a walk along the boardwalk to the tower, then climbed to the newly opened Jacob's Outlook.

“It's tremendous, I think,” Gilbert said. “Great improvement.”

Rain cut the trip to Jacob's Outlook short, leaving Gilbert wanting more.

“You can view it all you want over the screen, but I know that just to be able to see it in person, it has to be something,” Gilbert said. “It's marvelous what they've done.”

Even if Gilbert can't make it back in person to enjoy Jacob's Outlook, he's certain Talcott Smith will continue to take him for Gumbo Limbo strolls to enjoy the view.

“I really owe a lot to Connie for actually remembering and trying to put me on it,” Gilbert said. “I've always said Boca Raton is a cut above other cities. What they do is first class.”