GOLDEN ERA OF EDUCATION
“Class” on Tuesday morning, January 12, was very orderly, which greatly pleased Mrs. Miller. Nearly 17 “students” showed up for the “One Room Schoolhouse” session and not one was anointed with the dreaded Dunce Cap. Activities Assistant/School “Marm” Martha Miller hosted another hilariously nostalgic journey back to the old-fashioned, simpler days of school.
Like a seasoned actress, Miller plays the perfect part and delighted residents responded her. She schedules “One Room Schoolhouse” once every three months. Residents (including front row brown noses Alice M., Carole K. and back corner “troublemaker” Pete N.) eagerly show up for this program. Miller’s parody is well understood by residents, who contribute their own “caricatures” leading to a sometime raucous classroom. They definitely get the joke!
Miller’s itinerary called for Arithmetic, Reading Comprehension and New York State Geography. Following school custom, the class recited the Pledge of Allegiance before instruction began. For the most part, residents answered lesson questions very capably. However, Anna R. may have been daydreaming a little. When asked by Miller if she had paid attention to the paragraph just read, Anna replied “No, not really!” In between full out laughter and subtler giggles, Miller held her audience’s attention.
To enhance the one-room feel, Miller set up a variety of props including slates, decades-old lesson books, a clanking school bell, plus that conical Dunce Cap. Most effective, though was the period dress that she wore, which surely conjured images of a “Little House on the Prairie” episode.
At about 11:30am, the hand bell signaled that school was out. Resident faces were plastered with broad smiles. “Martha has created a unique program – a somewhat sophisticated parody that doesn’t ignore that period’s nostalgic appeal,” pointed out Activities Director Gary Sacco. “I’m only disappointed that Pete N. wasn’t able once again, to earn the Dunce Cap!”
CASINO AFTERNOON
On Saturday afternoon, January 16, Activities Staff and volunteers converted the Garden Room into a modest casino. There was plenty of action at a handful of tables offering poker, blackjack, numbers and craps. The Euchre table (played at $5.00 dollars a hand) was also busy. Naturally, fake money was used. Prizes were available for the two gamers who had won the most.
A nice group of residents turned out to challenge house dealers and harness good luck. Pete N., sipping beer and encouraged by daughter Mary Beth, waged a furious craps competition versus house roller and student volunteer Rose O’Toole. Late in the event, Rose finally “broke” Pete! Volunteer Bob Baumgartner attracted attention at his poker venue. In fact, volunteer Eileen Deeth would clean up. Her total of $97 dollars won top prize – a $25 dollar Wegman’s gift certificate. Alice M. wasn’t as successful, laughing after losing most of her initial “bank” of forty bucks at blackjack.
Marie Z., a zealous card player, arrived with her “entourage” of visiting grandchildren. They really spiced up the event competing at the Euchre table AGAINST their Grandma and sitting at the blackjack table. Activities Director Gary Sacco proved to be a very tough dealer to beat on this day! Marie, though, did well enough at the gaming to secure second prize, a $15 dollar Wegman’s gift certificate.
Activities Gary Sacco was very pleased with this event. “I immediately perceived that those there really wanted two things: to play and have fun.” He also gave credit to volunteers Donna Baumgartner and her husband Bob, Malou Basch, Rose O’Toole, and Eileen Deeth. “They really are seasoned and know how to run an event and, most importantly, are great hosts who generate the positive atmosphere at our programs.”
CONSERVATORY TRIP
“Alice in Jungleland?” While it appears that Activities Assistant Martha Miller is looking on helplessly while Alice M. slips into the Amazon, she is actually serving as her guide during a recent trip to the Lamberton Conservatory at Highland Park. Miller, Alice, resident Edna W. and Activities Director Gary Sacco enjoyed a breath of Eden on a cold, snow covered January afternoon, observing rain forest foliage, desert cacti and fruit trees. Sacco declared,“This is definitely a favorite wintertime outing of mine. If it didn’t get so blasted hot in there come springtime, we’d go more often.”
The Conservatory is just one destination conquered by residents willing to brave winter temperatures. The Eastman House and lunch outings qualify as seasonal favorites. Sacco emphasizes that Maplewood tries to offer, on average, one trip weekly all year round. “We love the freedom to go out frequently,” he said. “We don’t believe in there being a season for going on trips and them being pulled back during colder months.” Activities Staff is also very excited about utilizing the van to create more opportunities. “Ever try to park the bus at the Public Market?” Sacco jokingly asked.
A RECIPE OF ENDURING LOVE
By Janet Pater, Resident Columnist
I sat in my trusty wheelchair gazing intently at the store window. I recognized the luxurious hues of pink and red hearts blended together to form a most attractive Valentine’s Day display as a work of art. As I remained seated in front of that window, my eyes were drawn to the romantic display, which evoked memories of tender moments spent with the recently deceased love of my life.
As a young woman, I had always been an extremely shy person. Those of you who know me well, go ahead and laugh! My children could never believe this either. I recall when I didn’t have many prospective admirers. My dear brother would say to me, “Janet you’re too particular and perhaps even a bit stuck-up.” Now I realize that in some ways Jim was correct. I did not want just anyone for a boyfriend and patiently waited for a tall, blond, wavy-haired, good-looking, well-educated young man with blue eyes. Little did I expect to find “Mr. Right” in church one Sunday evening, a few months after we’d both graduated from college. He walked me home that evening and then asked if I’d like to attend a seminary folk dance on the approaching Friday night. Well, bands played and the sun shone brightly. I was quickly on “cloud nine.”
The rest, you know, is history. Immediate marriage was, of course, out of the question. He had just begun his first years of seminary and was already broke. He didn’t even have a car! We patiently waited until his senior year to be joined in matrimony. What marvelous years we shared! I well remember Russ saying, “It’s amazing we’ve been married 50 years – some don’t even last one month.” Of course, we’d always felt that God had planned our meeting and marriage. (Being married to a preacher, I definitely know this to be true.)
I have never been able to fully comprehend how two people who have been in love, suddenly want to dissolve their marriage. Whatever happened to commitment? A few years following my stroke, I asked Russ if he’d like to be free again. Without hesitation he replied, “I made a commitment to you and I intend to keep it and care for you as long as I’m able.”
How utterly sad it is to see a couple, who appear to have it all, fight. This upsets them, extended family members, and (worst of all) children. People who truly love each other just don’t argue over what rightfully belongs to whom. “Marriage is a gift. Husband is head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.” (Eph 5:22) “However, each one of you must also love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.” (Eph 5:23) Oh how I wish, I could have my love again, I’d be whole once more. Meanwhile, I stand by His promise of eternal life that is to come and treasure the memories that we made together.
Shortly after Russ’ passing, I was told that our marriage was sometimes the topic of employee break room conversation. The young aides marveled that two people could share such a loving, beautiful marriage for so many years. They wondered about our dedication to the relationship. I think my son was correct when he stated at our 50th wedding celebration, “I think WHERE mom and dad met had much to do with their lasting love. Indeed Dave was correct. Since Russ’ passing, I’ve often thought about our deliriously happy marriage. It was first rate and could have easily won a blue ribbon in a county fair baking contest. Here is the recipe:
Remember: add all the ingredients slowly and patiently into the marriage batter, mixing well.
One heaping Tablespoon of the same faith,
Remember to have plenty of encouragement for each other,
Be aware that anger can cause a failed recipe,
Use encouragement; don’t berate one another,
Too much yelling/commotion will ruin the recipe,
Knead in time for fun, passion and family activities,
Generously add goals and work together to achieve them,
Work in the concept of being a team,
Add a final ingredient of love, telling each other this often.
Oh, lastly, sprinkle in those rare occasions of being home alone - quietly holding hands, taking time to enjoy each other.
Then, pour batter into a greased pan and bake slowly until your marriage is of the proper consistency. Remove from oven, let cool and settle.
For us, this recipe was delicious for many decades! Please try it.
INTRODUCING DEB SCHIPPER, NURSE PRACTITIONER
Deb Schipper, M.S.N., ANP, will be the most visible member of this new medical team. Her tenure at Maplewood began early in 2010. Schipper brings consistency as she serves Maplewood residents Monday through Friday, 8am-12pm. Staying later than that, however, is not unusual. Most comforting, she is qualified to perform many of the same duties as a medical doctor.
Schipper mentioned that while Nurse Practitioners have licenses to perform independently (though that is not the scenario at Maplewood), most prefer to practice with a physician collaborator. Dr Pingree fills that roll here. She can, in the long-term care arena, write admission orders. However, the initial interview and creating a plan of care is the doctor’s responsibility. Schipper is permitted, alternating with Dr. Pingree, to conduct acute and discharge visits. Combined with Dr. Pingree’s input Deb’s knowledge and versatility will greatly benefit her Maplewood patients.
Schipper appreciates Maplewood’s peaceful ambiance. To her, there is no question that residents are content. She has praise for a happy, friendly staff with good clinical skills and enjoys working with them.
Schipper, a Michigan native, obtained her RN degree at Nazareth College of Kalamazoo, Michigan and earned a Masters from Michigan State’s Family Nurse Practitioner program. She has two daughters and 5 grandchildren. Schipper spends time traveling but possesses a very interesting favorite hobby – flipping houses!
MEDICAL CHANGES ARRIVE IN 2010
Even in this era of de-institutionalization, changes in the medical model provoke the most scrutiny and significance within the community it serves. The Maplewood Community is currently sizing up a new medical point person, Nurse Practitioner Deb Schipper and is being reintroduced to a familiar face, Dr. Thomas Pingree, who practiced here for a few years prior. Both work with Maplewood under the umbrella of the Rochester General Geriatric Physician Practice Group. Administrator Greg Chambery described this practice as a well-respected group affiliated with Rochester General Hospital. This practice serves carefully selected nursing homes on the east side of Rochester.”
In some cases, changes are made to try something a little different and refreshing. In contrast, the reasons for Maplewood’s switch are quite specific. Chambery points out incoming residents have become more and more medically complex. Long-term residents seem to arrive more frail and in poorer health. On the rehabilitation front, Chambery finds that the healing process initiated at the hospital is in a very active state. He also cited chronic afflictions that can cause a person’s physical condition to deteriorate rapidly. The bottom line for Chambery is that, today, facilities need more resources and an ability to respond quickly. He is confident that this can now be provided.
In years past, a more medically stable population made the one doctor approach more feasible. Once upon a time, that medical professional would pop in for a few hours to attend to a prepared list of residents, sign important documents, deal with a few unexpected “problems” and then head off to possibly another nursing home or two. Nowadays, increasing complications (due to reasons Chambery explained above) can really stretch that one person’s capabilities within a limited time framework.
This new approach calls on a small team and gives Schipper an opportunity for more hands-on care. Being here Monday through Friday for hours at a time helps her learn Maplewood’s residents and their needs. Schipper will be backed up by not only Pingree, but also a team of on-call doctors. Thus far, Chambery is very pleased with that process. A few minor details are being refined to further improve this new system.
By emphasizing knowledge, direct involvement and teamwork, Maplewood officials hope this new model ensures that residents receive the best care possible. Schipper’s ground level presence is crucial. She has spent a great deal of time meeting her patients, thus knowing them beyond a flurry of notes in a chart. This familiarity may lead the detection of a healthy issue, as, or maybe even just before, it surfaces.
CHECK PRESENTATION
By Gary Sacco, Activities Director
Our two invited guests waited patiently for a lengthy Resident Council Meeting to finish. Hope House’s Margery Morgan and Lindsay Bureaux, of the Bivona Child Advocacy Center, arrived at 4pm on Thursday, January 21, to receive checks for $907.00 each, monies raised at the November’s Holiday Bazaar. I was impressed, but not surprised, by the professionalism of both ladies. Bazaar Committee Members Ruth G., Connie B., Shirley F. and I represented the Maplewood.
The party soon moved into the Seneca Lounge for the official check presentation. Ruth, Connie and Shirley beamed with satisfaction as they handed both women their promised checks. I stood back and took pictures. After all, these residents are the driving force behind the annual Holiday Bazaar. To them Morgan and Bureaux were the faces of two organizations that residents learned a great deal about. Morgan’s Hope House benefited last year. This was Bivona’s first year.
As I took advantage of the photo opportunity, I reflected on the current threesome. In years past, longest serving member Ruth was worn down by the stress and excitement of planning, then executing this intense event. Support by Shirley and Connie afforded Ruth a chance to rest and eat properly during this year’s Bazaar. “WE did it,” I thought to myself. The teamwork practiced by three varied personalities with differing points of view deserves plaudits. Ruth, for the first time I can remember, bypassed her usual period of reflection and immediately declared her involvement in 2010’s event.
Both organizations are very valuable to the community. Hope House helps so many families. While Webster is generally, and rightfully, considered a prosperous Eastern suburb, the needy also live there. Hope House is indispensable to them. Bivona, located on Lake Avenue in the city, serves abused children and their families. Working with law enforcement, they take steps to initially offer child protection and crucial counseling. After touring both places I left with a great deal of admiration. The residents primarily picked the charities. However, I strongly endorsed their choices!
After I guided our special guests through a tour of Maplewood, they were soon on their way. They thanked us genuinely. I informed the two women that we were “on” for next year with details to follow. The “big three” agreed to meet with me sometime next month to mull over ideas and recommendations for 2010’s event. It is amazing to me that this little event, inaugurated in the cramped Activities Room 5 years ago, has raised over 6000 dollars for various charities.
Lastly, much of our support comes from the Maplewood Community. Without them, our Bazaar wouldn’t be nearly as successful.
DID YOU KNOW…
BOOK CLUB, FOR MOST PART, ENJOYED “BROOKLYN”
By Martha Miller, Activities Assistant/Maplewood Librarian
The Maplewood Book Club has recently completed “Brooklyn” written by Colm Toibin. Set in both Brooklyn and Ireland in the early 50’s, it tells the story of one young woman who crosses the ocean to make a new life for herself. Eilis Lacey has come of age in a small Irish town and, though skilled in bookkeeping, unable to find employment. An Irish priest from Brooklyn offers to sponsor her trip to America, with the promise of a better life. We follow Eilis on this journey, cheering her successes and surprised when she makes choices we do not anticipate or necessarily approve of. We found the plot compelling and were so eager to find out the ending that we scheduled an extra Book Club session in order to complete the book.
Responses to this book were largely favorable. Helen S. found the story “fascinating.” She let it be known that her father came from Ireland and that this aspect of her history made her more interested in the story line. Mary C. especially appreciated the well-drawn character studies. Helen K., also with an Irish connection, found the story “interesting.” Carole K. thought the book lacked clarity and did not feel that she would recommend it. For the most part, I enjoyed reading this book to our Club. A few of the plot twists were rather shocking, but provided us with interesting points of discussion.
Overall, we feel that this book is well written and offers the reader an interesting look back at 1950’s Brooklyn through the eyes of Eilis Lacey, a character none of us will forget soon.
HELP LAUNCH THE “SKYPE ADVENTURE”
The December newsletter issue informed all of you that we have the Skype communication software. Let’s try it now! We would like to set up a demonstration and need your help. If you have Skype and are interested in being on the “other end” of a videophone call opposite residents and Gary Sacco, Activities Director, let us know. You can contact Gary at 872-1800, extension 4017, or at gsacco@maplewoodnursinghome.com. Your loved ones – our residents – will be surprised and pleased when they see this technology in action. This will also provide another opportunity to communicate with your loved ones from just about anywhere. Can you just imagine “calling up” on Skype from a vacation in Cancun? The possibilities are endless!
TERRACE ROOM NEWS
In blustery February, the winds of change in Dining Services are just beginning. Inspired by the recent hiring of Chef Juliana Stojanova, Dining Services Director Mike Fall continues to implement new steps designed to create “a more customer oriented dining experience.” He sees this latest round as another step in a journey initiated years ago of evolving from an institutional model to a restaurant atmosphere. Achieving this is critical, in Fall’s opinion, to offering residents the best quality of life possible.
Beverage Service is one area he is targeting. Instead of a resident arriving with 3-5 pre-served glasses, he wants alá carte orders taken at time of service. Fall is also ecstatic by the popularity of the biweekly Seafood Buffet and Carved Tenderloin. Interacting with chefs in crisp white uniforms as they slice medallions of meat or plate a variety of seafood dishes appeals to the Maplewood Community. Fall promises more of these offerings in the future.
The hiring of Stojanova probably has the biggest impact on Fall’s vision. She has already suggested physical changes in “the back of the house” to modernize the cooking process. Maplewood will definitely benefit from her expertise, dynamic personality and eagerness to interact with “customers.” Walking around the Terrace Room chatting with residents and family members has already become part of her daily routine.
Fall hopes the entire Maplewood Community approaches dining in the Terrace Room as if they’re eating at a top of the line restaurant. It should start feeling more like that soon!
HERE COMES JULIANA, MAPLEWOOD’S NEW EXECUTIVE CHEF
Newly hired Executive Chef Juliana Stojanova has very strong feelings about preparing food! The Alfred State Culinary Arts graduate insists, “You can get to people’s hearts through food.” She brings experience – working at the Del Monte Lodge and Cloverwood Retirement Home – and enthusiasm to her craft. She is ambitiously ready to put her stamp on the dining atmosphere at Maplewood.
Energetic Stojanova feels that the culinary arts go far beyond preparing plates of food. Cooking, in Stojanova’s eyes, incorporates feeling, emotion, traditions and family. It is truly art. To her, color, textures, experimenting with newer foods and borrowing from eclectic cultures define cooking. She recognizes that the learning never ends.
Away from the kitchen, she plays softball and runs marathons that included running in Rochester’s competition twice. Stojanova enjoys charitable work including the Signature Chef’s Auction at Locust Hill this past autumn, which benefited The March of Dimes.
UPCOMING EVENTS:
Join the Maplewood Community to watch and celebrate the Super Bowl! The Garden Room will buzz on Sunday night, February 7, with hardcore football fans and those who enjoy being part of a great event. Fans of both teams should wear their colors and be raucous! Fans anticipate a very good game for the NFL championship. Drinks and food will be available. To create a more pleasant experience, there will be two televisions set up!
On Saturday, February 13, Maplewood’s cherished couples are again honored with another Sweetheart’s Event. This year, couples will be recognized with a concert by Dr. Nick and Gloria. In grand dinner theatre style, the honorees will be seated in front close to the performers. Other Maplewood Community members may come to the concert and enjoy the music. Concert starts at 2:30pm, but couples are asked to appear about an hour earlier to sample an assortment of gourmet desserts and pastries created especially for them.
A talented, enthusiastic church group called “The Friends Club” drops by to play games and possibly play a little music on Tuesday afternoon, February 16, at 2:30. The 9 young ladies are looking forward to spending a couple hours of their Winter break hanging out with Maplewood residents. These intergenerational programs remain a positive force for the entire Maplewood Community.
Holy Trinity Church hosts an Ash Wednesday Service on Wednesday afternoon, February 17, in the Terrace Room. Deacon Ray will dispense the ashes. Family members are encouraged to observe this very important day on the religious calendar. Mass will still take place in its usual monthly slot on Tuesday, February 16, at 10:30am.
Globetrotter Tom DeClaire presents an exciting travelogue titled “Paris to Normandy” on Thursday, February 18, at 10:30am. He will be showing approximately 100 clearly explained slides. Tom also plans to add extra flavor by playing French music before and after his slide program. DeClaire has hosted a few other shows. Residents enjoy the pictures and appreciate his knowledge. One can almost smell the French bread baking!
Resident regretfully missed the George Eastman House’s Gingerbread House display. However, they’ll be a part of the museum’s “Dutch Connection.” Residents tour the venerable home of Rochester’s foremost business magnet on Thursday afternoon, February 19. In addition to the usual historical effects, they’ll cheer the spring inspired sight of many tulips. Tour bus departs Maplewood at around 2:00pm.
A few residents expressed curiosity about Donut’s Delight re-opening a few weeks ago. On Wednesday afternoon, February 24, they’ll pile in the van and experience the Culver Road eatery first hand! The refurbished version of Donut’s Delight is more eclectic, offering breakfast subs and pizza, in addition to the legendary pastries. Maybe a short city ride will help the residents digest their mid-afternoon snacks.
Long-haired, well-groomed “Maggie” leads her furry friends in for Lollypop Farm first visit of 2010 on Friday afternoon, February 28. This pet therapy session has always been popular with Maplewood residents, many of whom enjoyed a multitude of pets during their lifetimes. While the canines predictably enjoy an abundance of attention, some prefer the tactile appeal of velvety soft rabbits.
CHILI COOK-OFF WINNER
Congratulations to our very own Paul Clocksin (Maintenance Department) for winning first place in our second annual “Chili Cook-Off”. Sara Walczak, Maplewood friend, came in second place.