The Village Voice

The Villages of San Luis Obispo
55 Broad Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Volume 15 | Issue 8 — August 2015
The Village Voice
A Newsletter Sharing Our Continuum of Care Story
MA R GA R I TA I S
I N T H E K I TC H E N !
I N S C RÍ BETE SU FAMOSA
SA LSA Y F RI TAS A H O RA !
Orders Placed by August 24th @
The Palms Front Desk -orCall (805) 543-2300
The Villages of San Luis Obispo
Retirement Living
Assisted Living
Memory Care
55 Broad Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
The Palms: 805.543.2300
The Oaks: 805.543.2342
73 Broad Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Administrator: Lea Bogoyevac
License #: 405800467
Garden Creek: 805.543.2311
1234 Laurel Lane
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Administrator: Kellie Gallegly
License #: 405800577
Sydney Creek: 805.543.2350
For More Information:
Jane Lefebre —805.543.2300
[email protected]
For More Information:
Julie White Eyes —805.543.2350
[email protected]
For More Information:
Jane Lefebre —805.543.2300
[email protected]
www.villagesofslo.com / www.sydneycreek.com
Back by popular demand for the 6th
year in a row, our own Margarita Perry
has returned to the kitchen to prepare
her mother’s secret salsa recipe. Trusted
sidekick Jeri O’Neill will assist, and
even she will never be told the secret
ingredient. Tickle your taste buds and
help find a cure for Alzheimer’s Disease at the same time! Sign up now to
order your own private stash of the best
homemade salsa and fresh corn tortilla
chips, warm from the oven.
Choose from three styles: If you like
yours hot hot hot, straight from hell’s
kitchen, order Diablo. If you like it very
warm but wish to save your tongue, order Caliente. If you can’t stand the heat
but love the tangy flavors, order the
Gringo. A generous container of salsa
only, is $5. The salsa and chips combo
is $10.
This popular annual event is fun,
delicious, and for such a good cause.
All orders must be paid and placed
in advance by August 24th, 2015. Call
805-543-2300 to sign up. Or stop by the
front desk at the Palms to pay and order
yours. We’ll tell you when to pick them
up. Delivery day is TBA.
All proceeds will be donated to the Alzheimer’s Association. Viva Margarita!
Viva la salsa!
August - Spicy Summer Fun
Summer is here and we are going to celebrate it with Salsa and
Song! Join us as we listen to jazz, dance the Jitterbug, and help the
Alzheimer’s Association by enjoying some of Margarita’s delicious
salsa. Grab your favorite tortilla chips and gather with your friends
for some summer fun across all The Villages campuses. We’ll see
you there!
Send a Song at Garden Creek!
Tuesday, 18th - Thursday, 20th
Some cardiologists suggest that all people could boost the health of their
hearts by listening to music. What a better way to enjoy a tune than being
sung to in person! The first singing telegram was delivered July 28th,
1933. It was delivered over the phone to Rudy Vallee, a famous American crooner and actor from the 30s, for his 32nd birthday. This week in
August, residents, families, and staff can request a singing telegram to
be sent to someone at The Villages Community and because it’s good for
our hearts, we are paying it forward even further; the proceeds of all sales
go to The American Heart Association.
Two for the Road Jazz Duo at The Villages!
Friday, 28th @ 3:00pm
The Palms Living Room
Two for the Road is back for another performance! Their music is guaranteed to be a delight. We know the musicians will do their best because
you need to hit all your notes when your mother is in the audience! That’s
right! Jim Miller is half of the duo that makes up Two for the Road and he
will be looking out for you, Jeanne!
Jitterbug Social at Sydney Creek!
Friday, 28th @ 3:00pm
Sydney Creek Community Center
New research published in the New England Journal of Medicine shows
that dancing dramatically reduces the symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Freestyle dancing requires constant, quick, decision
making, which is the key to maintaining intelligence because it forces
the brain to regularly rewire its neural pathways, helping better cognitive
responses. Life Enrichment is hosting a Jitterbug Social on August 28th
at 3pm in our Community Room. We encourage our residents to dress up,
come eat, drink, listen to music, and dance!
August -- Sun, Fun, and BBQ!
Retirement Living
The Palms & The Oaks
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR’S NOTE:
Dear Residents,
One of the first questions I get from
new acquaintances is, “How long have
you worked at The Palms?” When I
respond that I’ve been on the job for
18 years, and that I currently hold the
record for the longest employed person
at The Villages, I usually get the reply,
“Wow, that’s unusual nowadays!”
Things really have changed over the
last few decades. I remember it being
commonplace for people to remain with
a company their entire lives. According
to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the
average length of employment in 2014
was 4.5 years.
Out of curiosity, I researched how
long our workers have remained on the
job. Out of a total of 60 employees, 1/3
have been connected with The Palms
and Oaks five years or more. Because
server positions are comprised of
students, the biggest turnover occurs
in Dining Services. We employ about
30 servers. If you deduct the transitory
staff from the regulars, the percentage of
long timers goes up to 50%. I’d say that’s
pretty impressive.
So, what are the benefits to you? Lee
Beall, in an article entitled, “The Value
of Long-Term Employees” believes that
organizations with workers who have
remained on staff for extended periods
create a more stable company. “Longterm employees are brighter because
they’ve seen it all--including what works
and what doesn’t.” The author suggests
that a long-timer gets to know the
[residents] and their preferences. Thus,
they react quicker and supply better
results.
I’ve observed that when a valued
employee mentors new hires, the rate of
customer satisfaction increases as well.
Our ultimate goal is to keep you happy,
no matter how long an employee has
worked at The Villages. We are here to
serve you.
Best wishes,
Jeri O’Neill
Assistant Director
LIVING LIKE AN ARISTOCRAT AT
THE VILLAGES
By Jeri O’Neill
There are many big fans of the PBS Masterpiece Classic Anthology, series,
Downton Abbey. Set in the post-Edwardian era, Downton Abbey transports
the dedicated viewer to a aristocratic life style that most of us can only dream
about. How wonderful would it be to have a staff that would accommodate
our every whim: butlers, maids, cooks, gardeners, exercise trainers, private
tutors, event planners, chauffeurs, and craftsmen? But wait a minute, isn’t life
at The Villages a modern version of “Living the good life”?
You may not have a butler, but you do have receptionists who greet visitors
at our “front door” and respond to your wishes when you require answers to
your inquiries, transportation appointments, meal arrangements, and emergency medical care.
Friendly and helpful housekeepers, take on the role of loyal maids, who
sweep, vacuum, mop, and clean your apartment and change your bed linens.
When it’s time to eat, there’s no need to worry about deciding what’s for
dinner; there is an entire staff of chefs, prep cooks, and servers at your disposal, scurrying around the kitchen, preparing a delicious and nutritious evening
repast for you.
Planting, weeding, fertilizing, watering, repeat--such is the daily routine of
a dedicated gardener. At The Palms and The Oaks, those chores are done for
you by our hardworking landscaping team. Your only job is to smell the roses,
and enjoy the antics of visiting hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. There’s
nothing so relaxing as taking a stroll around the complex at dawn or dusk to
surround yourself with nature’s bountiful beauty; rivaling the Crawley family’s
park-like English estate.
The Life Enrichment crew may not use old fashioned leather medicine
balls or clumsy steel and wood rowing machines, but they do a fantastic job of
keeping you fit with water aerobics, Tai Chi, Zumba, balance/core, and light
weights classes. Craving your favorite cocktail? Allow our in-house barkeep
to mix it up for you at one of our many parties. Learning is a never ending
process. To keep your mind stimulated, participate in a discussion group or
explore your thoughts in the writers’ coterie.
Although they don’t wear chauffer’s caps and jodhpurs, our drivers provide the best transportation service in town! Schedule an appointment for
wherever you want to go in the city of San Luis Obispo, Monday-Friday. On
Saturdays, they’ll whisk you away to scenic drives, special events, or Farmers’
Markets throughout the county. Sundays are reserved for rides to houses of
worship. Simply sign up the night before for the religious service of your
choice.
If a light bulb burns out, your toilet won’t flush, or you accidentally drop
your ring down the drain, our modern day craftsmen, the maintenance team,
are a phone call away.
So ladies, stow your parasols, and gents, doff your top hats and gloves, it’s
time to put your feet up, relax, and enjoy living like an aristocrat!
Mark Your Calendar!
Sydney Creek Support Group
Tuesday, 4th @ 5:30pm
Resource Room
Connect with other families and explore ways to cope with the wide array
of feelings and emotions that arise when a loved one lives with Alzheimer’s
disease. You are not alone. Join us and our Support Group Leader as they
offer help and comfort for the families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and
dementia.
Sports Center
Wednesday, 5th @ 3:00pm
Community Room
There are many suitable exercise opportunities that may be beneficial for
people in the early or middle-stages of dementia. Life Enrichment has started
an activity called “Sports Center.” This provides a range of organized exercise and physical activity sessions, such as ball games, golf, indoor bowling,
balloon tennis and dance!
Our Sports Center also offers the sport we are playing to be shown on our
big screen for residents who cannot participate. Come join us and cheer our
residents on!
Massages & Manicures - A Touch of Compassion
Tuesday, 11th @ 3:00pm
Community Room
Our Residents here at Sydney Creek with Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia
have not lost the capacity for human emotion or recognition of a compassionate touch.
There are several benefits massage and manicures offer to our residents,
including increased body awareness and alertness, as well as a reduction in
the feelings of confusion and anxiety.
Life Enrichment also provides this activity around “Sun downing” time when
our residents need a little extra special care.
Sydney Creek Family Dinner
Thursday, 27th @ 6:00pm
Sydney Creek Lobby
It’s summertime and it’s the perfect time for a Country Family BBQ! Join
your loved ones for a Country BBQ with all the fixins and let the Sydney
Creek staff take care of you! Our residents have made crafts that will be
on display and the food is sure to be a highlight of your summer vacation!
Please RSVP to the Front Desk by Tuesday, August 25th. Seating is limited.
NOTABLES:
New Residents
Barbara Dahlberg
Don Hurley
Resident Birthdays
Doreen Anderson - 5th
Staff Birthdays
Leticia Martinez-Morales - 2nd
Michelle Garza - 9th
Emily Helms - 16th
Juanita Datol - 22nd
Aida Cardenas - 23rd
Staff Anniversaries
Joel Contreras - 12 Years
Crisencia Rodriguez - 11 Years
Gerald Nisperos- 2 Years
James McKell - 1 year
Good-Bye
Jim Curry
Laddie Gorski
Gene Eagle
India McKennon
In Memory Of
Gladys Rubinstein
Sports Center
brings out
the friendly
competitive side of
our residents!
Paul Baum
Our talented residents
enjoy expressing
themselves through
music!
Memory Care
Sydney Creek
ADMI N I ST R ATOR’S N OTE:
Dear Family and Friends,
August -- Tastes of Summer!
Resident Spotlight
- Edna Cantrell By Robert Cantrell, Son
Sydney Creek will be participating in the annual Alzheimer’s
Association Memory Walk which
is scheduled for October 24th.
We are eager to raise donations
for our local chapter and we can
really use your help. If you are
interested in joining our team
please see Linda at the Front Desk
so she can add you to our list of
participants. If you are unable to
participate in the walk but would
like to sponsor one of our walkers please see Lushana Watson in
Life Enrichment and she will be
happy to help you fill out a pledge
form. The Alzheimer’s Association offers invaluable services to
San Luis Obispo County and we at
Sydney Creek strive to help them
in their mission which is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease. Every
penny raised for this cause helps a
family in need.
Best regards,
Kellie Gallegly
Executive Director
Edna Anglin was born January 22, 1922.
She was the fourth of five children. Her father Noah, and mother, Ellie, raised their family in a small farm house near Wetumpka,
Oklahoma. As a young girl, Edna experienced the
Great Depression and the Oklahoma Dust Bowl
era. They were primarily self-subsistent, growing
fruits and vegetables, raising poultry and livestock.
They made their own clothing, and in these challenging times, a pair of new
shoes was a special treat.
At the age of 15, Edna married Leonard Cantrell, who would be her lifelong
partner. Leonard was a very good man, and her happiness was his top priority.
In 1940, they ventured down Route 66, thus, leaving Oklahoma for the
promise of high-paying jobs in the shipyards and defense factories in California. They made their home in Oakland, and both worked at building the
vessels. Edna spent many days operating a rivet gun assembling warships.
In the late 40’s, Edna and Leonard moved to the lower San Joaquin Valley.
They settled in Taft, California, where Leonard found work as a carpenter. He
was soon hired at Maricopa School, and they transferred there to raise their
family.
Edna and Leonard had their first child, Joann, in 1938. It was very sad when
their beloved little girl lost her life to pneumonia at only 30 months of age.
They went on to have four more children – all boys. Charles was the oldest,
followed by Gary, Roger, and myself, Robert. The consecutive string of boys
continued as they have five grandsons and three great-grandsons. After a
string of 12 boys, Edna was very happy to be blessed with a great-granddaughter named Abby.
Edna and Leonard were very involved with their athletic family of rowdy
young men. They both spent many days and nights attending and coaching their boys’ activities. They were always there for the boys, from Pee-Wee
leagues through college sports.
In 1962, Edna began working for the Desert Palm Shirt Corporation in
downtown Taft. Edna was employed as a floor supervisor for the company
which primarily made doctors’ and nurses’ uniforms. Edna enjoyed this job
and worked there for 15 years. She made many good friends and always enjoyed the company-sponsored bowling team’s “girl’s night out” on Fridays.
In 1979 Edna and Leonard retired. They built a small, modern farm on the
outskirts of Bakersfield. They returned to their roots and enjoyed raising small
scale livestock and tending a large garden. Edna was also able to rejoin her
hobbies of sewing, crocheting, making quilts, canning vegetables, and baking.
After 52 years of a very happy marriage, Leonard passed away in 1989. It was a
heartbreaking loss for Edna, but she continued to live there by herself.
In 2006, at the age of 84, the farm got to be too much for Edna. She moved
to Arroyo Grande to live with me and my wife, Sue. In a short amount of time,
she also began to live with her other son, Charles, in Tucson, Arizona. She
rotated back and forth from Arroyo Grande and Tucson for a few years but the
travel and change became too hard. She settled in Arroyo Grande and soon
became a resident at Sydney Creek.
I’m the youngest of her four sons. On a sad note, Edna faced the untimely
death of her two middle sons, Gary and Roger. Growing up with Edna was a
joy. Our family didn’t have an abundance of money but we always managed
fine. In perspective, Edna and Leonard taught me how to work hard, be honest, and through it all, everyone was always loved.
It’s a busy month!
Summer BBQ’s!
Courtyard 3 & 4 Summer BBQ
Thursday, 6th @ 12:00pm
The Palms Central Courtyard
-and-
Oaks Summer BBQ
Thursday, 27th @ 12:00pm
Oaks Poolside
The Villages want to celebrate the summer with you! IN the next two month’s,
our dining department will be hosting four BBQ’s for our residents to enjoy
while basking in our wonderfule Central Coast weather! So, put on your sun hat
and sunscreen and come with an empty stomach ready to be filled with delicious BBQ food!
Cal Poly Tour
CELEBRATIONS:
New Residents
Karla Gibson
Resident Birthdays
Viola (Ann) Peterson - 2nd
Saturday, 15th @ 1:00pm (Bus Departure)
Meet in The Palms Living Room
Lawrence Field - 3rd
San Luis Obispo is home to the California Polytechnic University and it is our
pleasure to take you on a bus tour of their expansive campus. With a student
population of 20,186 and status as one of SLO counties largest employers, the
Cal Poly campus is truly a city within a city. Join Stan and Natalie as they provide fun facts and history of this local giant.
Rosie the Riveter Luncheon
Dick Ingels - 3rd
John Romanelli - 7th
Margaret Duff - 8th
Gertrude Romanelli- 11th
Vida Dawson - 15th
Wednesday, 19th @ 12:00pm
The Palms Dining Room
Nanette Hummel -20th
Annually, The Villages Dining Department and Activity Department team up to
create a memorable luncheon for the women in this community. The proceeds of
this special event benefit a local nonprofit within San Luis Obispo County. It is
our pleasure to invite you to our Rosie the Riveter themed women’s luncheon to
benefit The Women’s Shelter Program of San Luis Obispo County. 1 in 4 women
will experienced intimate partner violence in their life time. The Women’s Shelter Program is a non-profit agency committed to providing comprehensive services to all those affected by intimate partner violence and child abuse. Join us
as we support the women of this county to reach out, to find help, and to thrive.
Together, we can do it! Invitation to follow.
Bonnie Starr - 24th
Passport to Culture!
Mathew Thomas - 15th
Friday, 21st @ 3:00pm
The Palms Living Room
Maggie Quinn - 24th
Carol Parke - 30th
Employee Birthdays
Lisa Hulse - 4th
Simon Ford - 9th
Jonathon Castellanos - 20th
Geisha girls, Zen gardens, karaoke bars and more! Come learn about the sights,
sounds, and tastes of Japanese culture! A simple trip to the Palms Living Room
can transport you half way around the world. Konichiwa!
Grisett Hernandez Ruiz - 22nd
Bruce Ihle - 23rd
Employee Anniversaries
Jane Lefebre - 1 year
Raphael Imboden - 2 years
Teddie Hicks getting close to
Equine Therapy horse, Ozzy!
Juan Martinez Rodarte - 2 years
Elizardo Santiago - 10 years
Assisted Living
Garden Creek
Resident Spotlight
ADM I N I ST R ATOR’S N OTE:
CAN YOU MATCH EACH STATE
TO ITS CAPITOL?
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Albany
Annapolis
Atlanta,
Augusta
Austin
Baton Rouge
Bismarck
Boise
Boston
Carson City
Charleston
Cheyenne
Columbia
Columbus
Concord
Denver
Des Moines
Dover
Frankfort
Harrisburg
Hartford
Helena
Honolulu
Indianapolis
Jackson
Jefferson City
Juneau
Lansing
Lincoln
Little Rock
Madison
Montgomery
Montpelier
Nashville
Oklahoma City
Olympia
Phoenix,
Pierre
Providence
Raleigh
Richmond
Sacramento
Saint Paul
Salem
Salt Lake City
Santa Fe
Springfield
Tallahassee
Topeka
Trenton
HOW MANY DID YOU GET RIGHT?
Lea Bogoyevac
Executive Director
August -- Summer Surprises!
-Eric Murrell-
Eric Murrell was born to Beatrice and
Gilbert Murrell in England on May 8, 1919.
He had one older sister and they grew up
in the Midlands near Birmingham. Eric
attended the Military College of Science
where he majored in Artillery. After college
he signed on with the British Army Staff
in Washington D.C., became a Warrant
Officer 1, and worked on the Land-Lease to
give aid to Britain and China.
After the war, in Washington D.C., Eric
met his wife. He recalls a buddy of his dragged him to a dance.
It was a “Paul Jones,” a dance method of changing partners that
led him to meeting Katherine, who became his dance partner for
life. Eric and Katherine lived in many different cities, like Silver
Springs and Baltimore, Maryland, Cincinnati, Ohio, Inglewood,
Pasadena and Paleo Verdes, California. Eric worked to support his
family at Procter and Gamble for over 29 years. They had three
children: Tom who lives in Shell Beach, Karen in Nipomo, and
Eric Jr. in Boise, Idaho.
Eric and Katherine loved to travel outside of the U.S. and went
to the UK, Belgium, Holland, France, Sweden, Norway, Australia,
New Zealand, Singapore and Japan. Eric has a really interesting
story from his travels to the Pacific Islands where he was chased
by a rather large Komodo dragon. Thankfully, he was able to out
run that venomous lizard and has a great tale to tell his grandchildren.
After retiring from work and travels, he built a home in the
country club area of San Luis Obispo. Eric’s wife passed away
after sharing 60 years of love together. In 2005 he moved to live
at the Oaks and about three years ago he came to live at Garden
Creek with his friend and companion Katie Milnar. Eric enjoys
spending his days reading, doing crosswords, playing bingo and
spending evenings with Katie watching some of their favorite
programs. Eric enjoys playing Bridge with a group of friends on
Sundays and if you want to hear more about his Komodo dragon
story you can find him, most mornings, reading the paper in the
living room. We are glad to have Eric here at Garden Creek.
Don’t Miss These Dates!
Louise’s YouTube Party
Wednesday, 5th @ 3:00pm
1st Floor Living Room
“Getting information off the internet is like taking a drink from a fire
hydrant,” Mitchell Kapor. We are now living in a very technological age
where the internet is a doorway to a new world of educational and entertainment possibilities. Garden Creek resident, Louise has discovered the
World Wide Web and the amazing things you can find using one of the internet’s most popular sites called YouTube. You can “search” for just about
anything and YouTube will have hundreds if not thousands of videos to
choose from. Louise has “bookmarked” a collection that she has enjoyed to
share with everyone!
American Artist’s Day
Saturday, 15th
1st Floor Living Room
Since it is American Art Appreciation Month, we are featuring American
Artists, such as Jackson Pollock, Norman Rockwell, and Andy Warhol as
we showcase their art at Garden Creek. Our Living Room will be transformed into our very own art gallery for everyone to be able to observe and
learn about the lives and art of famous American artists.
Missing Mona Lisa
Friday, 21st
Garden Creek
On this day in 1911, the Mona Lisa was stolen off the walls of the Louvre in
Paris, France. An Italian criminal claimed he had wanted to return the famous painting to da Vinci’s native country. It was recovered in December
of 1913. Today the Mona Lisa has suddenly gone missing again! If you find
her hidden around Garden Creek, return her for a special reward!
“I Left My Heart in....Garden Creek.”
Tuesday, 25th @ 2:00pm
1st Floor Living Room
This month in 1926, singer Tony Bennett was born Anthony Dominick
Benedetto in Queens, New York. By 1965, he had 24 top 40 hits under his
belt, including “Rags to Riches” (1953), “Stranger in Paradise” (1953), and
“I Left My Heart in San Francisco” (1962). We are celebrating this month’s
birthdays with a Tony Bennett Birthday Party! Come enjoy a pre-dinner
glass of wine and jazz music by Tony Bennett!
CELEBRATIONS:
Welcome
Jim Aura
Laura Smith
Resident Birthdays
Natalie Fredman – 11th
Catrina Lebed – 15th
Eleanor Holland – 28th
Staff Birthdays
Maria Rowan – 19th
Hayley Cushing – 23rd
Staff Anniversaries
Gudelia Arroyo - 1 Year
Abraham Ceronio - 1 Year
Sherry McCormick - 2 years
Monica Rodriguez - 2 years
Virginia Vasquez - 4 years
Andrea Tate - 11 years
Mabel Trujillo - 12 years
Amalia with Mary Kay, helps Evelyn
pick out her perfect shade.
Helen celebrated her birthday with
friends at a picnic!
Assisted Living
Garden Creek
Resident Spotlight
ADM I N I ST R ATOR’S N OTE:
CAN YOU MATCH EACH STATE
TO ITS CAPITOL?
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Albany
Annapolis
Atlanta,
Augusta
Austin
Baton Rouge
Bismarck
Boise
Boston
Carson City
Charleston
Cheyenne
Columbia
Columbus
Concord
Denver
Des Moines
Dover
Frankfort
Harrisburg
Hartford
Helena
Honolulu
Indianapolis
Jackson
Jefferson City
Juneau
Lansing
Lincoln
Little Rock
Madison
Montgomery
Montpelier
Nashville
Oklahoma City
Olympia
Phoenix,
Pierre
Providence
Raleigh
Richmond
Sacramento
Saint Paul
Salem
Salt Lake City
Santa Fe
Springfield
Tallahassee
Topeka
Trenton
HOW MANY DID YOU GET RIGHT?
Lea Bogoyevac
Executive Director
August -- Summer Surprises!
-Eric Murrell-
Eric Murrell was born to Beatrice and
Gilbert Murrell in England on May 8, 1919.
He had one older sister and they grew up
in the Midlands near Birmingham. Eric
attended the Military College of Science
where he majored in Artillery. After college
he signed on with the British Army Staff
in Washington D.C., became a Warrant
Officer 1, and worked on the Land-Lease to
give aid to Britain and China.
After the war, in Washington D.C., Eric
met his wife. He recalls a buddy of his dragged him to a dance.
It was a “Paul Jones,” a dance method of changing partners that
led him to meeting Katherine, who became his dance partner for
life. Eric and Katherine lived in many different cities, like Silver
Springs and Baltimore, Maryland, Cincinnati, Ohio, Inglewood,
Pasadena and Paleo Verdes, California. Eric worked to support his
family at Procter and Gamble for over 29 years. They had three
children: Tom who lives in Shell Beach, Karen in Nipomo, and
Eric Jr. in Boise, Idaho.
Eric and Katherine loved to travel outside of the U.S. and went
to the UK, Belgium, Holland, France, Sweden, Norway, Australia,
New Zealand, Singapore and Japan. Eric has a really interesting
story from his travels to the Pacific Islands where he was chased
by a rather large Komodo dragon. Thankfully, he was able to out
run that venomous lizard and has a great tale to tell his grandchildren.
After retiring from work and travels, he built a home in the
country club area of San Luis Obispo. Eric’s wife passed away
after sharing 60 years of love together. In 2005 he moved to live
at the Oaks and about three years ago he came to live at Garden
Creek with his friend and companion Katie Milnar. Eric enjoys
spending his days reading, doing crosswords, playing bingo and
spending evenings with Katie watching some of their favorite
programs. Eric enjoys playing Bridge with a group of friends on
Sundays and if you want to hear more about his Komodo dragon
story you can find him, most mornings, reading the paper in the
living room. We are glad to have Eric here at Garden Creek.
Don’t Miss These Dates!
Louise’s YouTube Party
Wednesday, 5th @ 3:00pm
1st Floor Living Room
“Getting information off the internet is like taking a drink from a fire
hydrant,” Mitchell Kapor. We are now living in a very technological age
where the internet is a doorway to a new world of educational and entertainment possibilities. Garden Creek resident, Louise has discovered the
World Wide Web and the amazing things you can find using one of the internet’s most popular sites called YouTube. You can “search” for just about
anything and YouTube will have hundreds if not thousands of videos to
choose from. Louise has “bookmarked” a collection that she has enjoyed to
share with everyone!
American Artist’s Day
Saturday, 15th
1st Floor Living Room
Since it is American Art Appreciation Month, we are featuring American
Artists, such as Jackson Pollock, Norman Rockwell, and Andy Warhol as
we showcase their art at Garden Creek. Our Living Room will be transformed into our very own art gallery for everyone to be able to observe and
learn about the lives and art of famous American artists.
Missing Mona Lisa
Friday, 21st
Garden Creek
On this day in 1911, the Mona Lisa was stolen off the walls of the Louvre in
Paris, France. An Italian criminal claimed he had wanted to return the famous painting to da Vinci’s native country. It was recovered in December
of 1913. Today the Mona Lisa has suddenly gone missing again! If you find
her hidden around Garden Creek, return her for a special reward!
“I Left My Heart in....Garden Creek.”
Tuesday, 25th @ 2:00pm
1st Floor Living Room
This month in 1926, singer Tony Bennett was born Anthony Dominick
Benedetto in Queens, New York. By 1965, he had 24 top 40 hits under his
belt, including “Rags to Riches” (1953), “Stranger in Paradise” (1953), and
“I Left My Heart in San Francisco” (1962). We are celebrating this month’s
birthdays with a Tony Bennett Birthday Party! Come enjoy a pre-dinner
glass of wine and jazz music by Tony Bennett!
CELEBRATIONS:
Welcome
Jim Aura
Laura Smith
Resident Birthdays
Natalie Fredman – 11th
Catrina Lebed – 15th
Eleanor Holland – 28th
Staff Birthdays
Maria Rowan – 19th
Hayley Cushing – 23rd
Staff Anniversaries
Gudelia Arroyo - 1 Year
Abraham Ceronio - 1 Year
Sherry McCormick - 2 years
Monica Rodriguez - 2 years
Virginia Vasquez - 4 years
Andrea Tate - 11 years
Mabel Trujillo - 12 years
Amalia with Mary Kay, helps Evelyn
pick out her perfect shade.
Helen celebrated her birthday with
friends at a picnic!
Memory Care
Sydney Creek
ADMI N I ST R ATOR’S N OTE:
Dear Family and Friends,
August -- Tastes of Summer!
Resident Spotlight
- Edna Cantrell By Robert Cantrell, Son
Sydney Creek will be participating in the annual Alzheimer’s
Association Memory Walk which
is scheduled for October 24th.
We are eager to raise donations
for our local chapter and we can
really use your help. If you are
interested in joining our team
please see Linda at the Front Desk
so she can add you to our list of
participants. If you are unable to
participate in the walk but would
like to sponsor one of our walkers please see Lushana Watson in
Life Enrichment and she will be
happy to help you fill out a pledge
form. The Alzheimer’s Association offers invaluable services to
San Luis Obispo County and we at
Sydney Creek strive to help them
in their mission which is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease. Every
penny raised for this cause helps a
family in need.
Best regards,
Kellie Gallegly
Executive Director
Edna Anglin was born January 22, 1922.
She was the fourth of five children. Her father Noah, and mother, Ellie, raised their family in a small farm house near Wetumpka,
Oklahoma. As a young girl, Edna experienced the
Great Depression and the Oklahoma Dust Bowl
era. They were primarily self-subsistent, growing
fruits and vegetables, raising poultry and livestock.
They made their own clothing, and in these challenging times, a pair of new
shoes was a special treat.
At the age of 15, Edna married Leonard Cantrell, who would be her lifelong
partner. Leonard was a very good man, and her happiness was his top priority.
In 1940, they ventured down Route 66, thus, leaving Oklahoma for the
promise of high-paying jobs in the shipyards and defense factories in California. They made their home in Oakland, and both worked at building the
vessels. Edna spent many days operating a rivet gun assembling warships.
In the late 40’s, Edna and Leonard moved to the lower San Joaquin Valley.
They settled in Taft, California, where Leonard found work as a carpenter. He
was soon hired at Maricopa School, and they transferred there to raise their
family.
Edna and Leonard had their first child, Joann, in 1938. It was very sad when
their beloved little girl lost her life to pneumonia at only 30 months of age.
They went on to have four more children – all boys. Charles was the oldest,
followed by Gary, Roger, and myself, Robert. The consecutive string of boys
continued as they have five grandsons and three great-grandsons. After a
string of 12 boys, Edna was very happy to be blessed with a great-granddaughter named Abby.
Edna and Leonard were very involved with their athletic family of rowdy
young men. They both spent many days and nights attending and coaching their boys’ activities. They were always there for the boys, from Pee-Wee
leagues through college sports.
In 1962, Edna began working for the Desert Palm Shirt Corporation in
downtown Taft. Edna was employed as a floor supervisor for the company
which primarily made doctors’ and nurses’ uniforms. Edna enjoyed this job
and worked there for 15 years. She made many good friends and always enjoyed the company-sponsored bowling team’s “girl’s night out” on Fridays.
In 1979 Edna and Leonard retired. They built a small, modern farm on the
outskirts of Bakersfield. They returned to their roots and enjoyed raising small
scale livestock and tending a large garden. Edna was also able to rejoin her
hobbies of sewing, crocheting, making quilts, canning vegetables, and baking.
After 52 years of a very happy marriage, Leonard passed away in 1989. It was a
heartbreaking loss for Edna, but she continued to live there by herself.
In 2006, at the age of 84, the farm got to be too much for Edna. She moved
to Arroyo Grande to live with me and my wife, Sue. In a short amount of time,
she also began to live with her other son, Charles, in Tucson, Arizona. She
rotated back and forth from Arroyo Grande and Tucson for a few years but the
travel and change became too hard. She settled in Arroyo Grande and soon
became a resident at Sydney Creek.
I’m the youngest of her four sons. On a sad note, Edna faced the untimely
death of her two middle sons, Gary and Roger. Growing up with Edna was a
joy. Our family didn’t have an abundance of money but we always managed
fine. In perspective, Edna and Leonard taught me how to work hard, be honest, and through it all, everyone was always loved.
It’s a busy month!
Summer BBQ’s!
Courtyard 3 & 4 Summer BBQ
Thursday, 6th @ 12:00pm
The Palms Central Courtyard
-and-
Oaks Summer BBQ
Thursday, 27th @ 12:00pm
Oaks Poolside
The Villages want to celebrate the summer with you! IN the next two month’s,
our dining department will be hosting four BBQ’s for our residents to enjoy
while basking in our wonderfule Central Coast weather! So, put on your sun hat
and sunscreen and come with an empty stomach ready to be filled with delicious BBQ food!
Cal Poly Tour
CELEBRATIONS:
New Residents
Karla Gibson
Resident Birthdays
Viola (Ann) Peterson - 2nd
Saturday, 15th @ 1:00pm (Bus Departure)
Meet in The Palms Living Room
Lawrence Field - 3rd
San Luis Obispo is home to the California Polytechnic University and it is our
pleasure to take you on a bus tour of their expansive campus. With a student
population of 20,186 and status as one of SLO counties largest employers, the
Cal Poly campus is truly a city within a city. Join Stan and Natalie as they provide fun facts and history of this local giant.
Rosie the Riveter Luncheon
Dick Ingels - 3rd
John Romanelli - 7th
Margaret Duff - 8th
Gertrude Romanelli- 11th
Vida Dawson - 15th
Wednesday, 19th @ 12:00pm
The Palms Dining Room
Nanette Hummel -20th
Annually, The Villages Dining Department and Activity Department team up to
create a memorable luncheon for the women in this community. The proceeds of
this special event benefit a local nonprofit within San Luis Obispo County. It is
our pleasure to invite you to our Rosie the Riveter themed women’s luncheon to
benefit The Women’s Shelter Program of San Luis Obispo County. 1 in 4 women
will experienced intimate partner violence in their life time. The Women’s Shelter Program is a non-profit agency committed to providing comprehensive services to all those affected by intimate partner violence and child abuse. Join us
as we support the women of this county to reach out, to find help, and to thrive.
Together, we can do it! Invitation to follow.
Bonnie Starr - 24th
Passport to Culture!
Mathew Thomas - 15th
Friday, 21st @ 3:00pm
The Palms Living Room
Maggie Quinn - 24th
Carol Parke - 30th
Employee Birthdays
Lisa Hulse - 4th
Simon Ford - 9th
Jonathon Castellanos - 20th
Geisha girls, Zen gardens, karaoke bars and more! Come learn about the sights,
sounds, and tastes of Japanese culture! A simple trip to the Palms Living Room
can transport you half way around the world. Konichiwa!
Grisett Hernandez Ruiz - 22nd
Bruce Ihle - 23rd
Employee Anniversaries
Jane Lefebre - 1 year
Raphael Imboden - 2 years
Teddie Hicks getting close to
Equine Therapy horse, Ozzy!
Juan Martinez Rodarte - 2 years
Elizardo Santiago - 10 years
August -- Sun, Fun, and BBQ!
Retirement Living
The Palms & The Oaks
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR’S NOTE:
Dear Residents,
One of the first questions I get from
new acquaintances is, “How long have
you worked at The Palms?” When I
respond that I’ve been on the job for
18 years, and that I currently hold the
record for the longest employed person
at The Villages, I usually get the reply,
“Wow, that’s unusual nowadays!”
Things really have changed over the
last few decades. I remember it being
commonplace for people to remain with
a company their entire lives. According
to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the
average length of employment in 2014
was 4.5 years.
Out of curiosity, I researched how
long our workers have remained on the
job. Out of a total of 60 employees, 1/3
have been connected with The Palms
and Oaks five years or more. Because
server positions are comprised of
students, the biggest turnover occurs
in Dining Services. We employ about
30 servers. If you deduct the transitory
staff from the regulars, the percentage of
long timers goes up to 50%. I’d say that’s
pretty impressive.
So, what are the benefits to you? Lee
Beall, in an article entitled, “The Value
of Long-Term Employees” believes that
organizations with workers who have
remained on staff for extended periods
create a more stable company. “Longterm employees are brighter because
they’ve seen it all--including what works
and what doesn’t.” The author suggests
that a long-timer gets to know the
[residents] and their preferences. Thus,
they react quicker and supply better
results.
I’ve observed that when a valued
employee mentors new hires, the rate of
customer satisfaction increases as well.
Our ultimate goal is to keep you happy,
no matter how long an employee has
worked at The Villages. We are here to
serve you.
Best wishes,
Jeri O’Neill
Assistant Director
LIVING LIKE AN ARISTOCRAT AT
THE VILLAGES
By Jeri O’Neill
There are many big fans of the PBS Masterpiece Classic Anthology, series,
Downton Abbey. Set in the post-Edwardian era, Downton Abbey transports
the dedicated viewer to a aristocratic life style that most of us can only dream
about. How wonderful would it be to have a staff that would accommodate
our every whim: butlers, maids, cooks, gardeners, exercise trainers, private
tutors, event planners, chauffeurs, and craftsmen? But wait a minute, isn’t life
at The Villages a modern version of “Living the good life”?
You may not have a butler, but you do have receptionists who greet visitors
at our “front door” and respond to your wishes when you require answers to
your inquiries, transportation appointments, meal arrangements, and emergency medical care.
Friendly and helpful housekeepers, take on the role of loyal maids, who
sweep, vacuum, mop, and clean your apartment and change your bed linens.
When it’s time to eat, there’s no need to worry about deciding what’s for
dinner; there is an entire staff of chefs, prep cooks, and servers at your disposal, scurrying around the kitchen, preparing a delicious and nutritious evening
repast for you.
Planting, weeding, fertilizing, watering, repeat--such is the daily routine of
a dedicated gardener. At The Palms and The Oaks, those chores are done for
you by our hardworking landscaping team. Your only job is to smell the roses,
and enjoy the antics of visiting hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. There’s
nothing so relaxing as taking a stroll around the complex at dawn or dusk to
surround yourself with nature’s bountiful beauty; rivaling the Crawley family’s
park-like English estate.
The Life Enrichment crew may not use old fashioned leather medicine
balls or clumsy steel and wood rowing machines, but they do a fantastic job of
keeping you fit with water aerobics, Tai Chi, Zumba, balance/core, and light
weights classes. Craving your favorite cocktail? Allow our in-house barkeep
to mix it up for you at one of our many parties. Learning is a never ending
process. To keep your mind stimulated, participate in a discussion group or
explore your thoughts in the writers’ coterie.
Although they don’t wear chauffer’s caps and jodhpurs, our drivers provide the best transportation service in town! Schedule an appointment for
wherever you want to go in the city of San Luis Obispo, Monday-Friday. On
Saturdays, they’ll whisk you away to scenic drives, special events, or Farmers’
Markets throughout the county. Sundays are reserved for rides to houses of
worship. Simply sign up the night before for the religious service of your
choice.
If a light bulb burns out, your toilet won’t flush, or you accidentally drop
your ring down the drain, our modern day craftsmen, the maintenance team,
are a phone call away.
So ladies, stow your parasols, and gents, doff your top hats and gloves, it’s
time to put your feet up, relax, and enjoy living like an aristocrat!
Mark Your Calendar!
Sydney Creek Support Group
Tuesday, 4th @ 5:30pm
Resource Room
Connect with other families and explore ways to cope with the wide array
of feelings and emotions that arise when a loved one lives with Alzheimer’s
disease. You are not alone. Join us and our Support Group Leader as they
offer help and comfort for the families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and
dementia.
Sports Center
Wednesday, 5th @ 3:00pm
Community Room
There are many suitable exercise opportunities that may be beneficial for
people in the early or middle-stages of dementia. Life Enrichment has started
an activity called “Sports Center.” This provides a range of organized exercise and physical activity sessions, such as ball games, golf, indoor bowling,
balloon tennis and dance!
Our Sports Center also offers the sport we are playing to be shown on our
big screen for residents who cannot participate. Come join us and cheer our
residents on!
Massages & Manicures - A Touch of Compassion
Tuesday, 11th @ 3:00pm
Community Room
Our Residents here at Sydney Creek with Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia
have not lost the capacity for human emotion or recognition of a compassionate touch.
There are several benefits massage and manicures offer to our residents,
including increased body awareness and alertness, as well as a reduction in
the feelings of confusion and anxiety.
Life Enrichment also provides this activity around “Sun downing” time when
our residents need a little extra special care.
Sydney Creek Family Dinner
Thursday, 27th @ 6:00pm
Sydney Creek Lobby
It’s summertime and it’s the perfect time for a Country Family BBQ! Join
your loved ones for a Country BBQ with all the fixins and let the Sydney
Creek staff take care of you! Our residents have made crafts that will be
on display and the food is sure to be a highlight of your summer vacation!
Please RSVP to the Front Desk by Tuesday, August 25th. Seating is limited.
NOTABLES:
New Residents
Barbara Dahlberg
Don Hurley
Resident Birthdays
Doreen Anderson - 5th
Staff Birthdays
Leticia Martinez-Morales - 2nd
Michelle Garza - 9th
Emily Helms - 16th
Juanita Datol - 22nd
Aida Cardenas - 23rd
Staff Anniversaries
Joel Contreras - 12 Years
Crisencia Rodriguez - 11 Years
Gerald Nisperos- 2 Years
James McKell - 1 year
Good-Bye
Jim Curry
Laddie Gorski
Gene Eagle
India McKennon
In Memory Of
Gladys Rubinstein
Sports Center
brings out
the friendly
competitive side of
our residents!
Paul Baum
Our talented residents
enjoy expressing
themselves through
music!
The Villages of San Luis Obispo
55 Broad Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Volume 15 | Issue 8 — August 2015
The Village Voice
A Newsletter Sharing Our Continuum of Care Story
MA R GA R I TA I S
I N T H E K I TC H E N !
I N S C RÍ BETE SU FAMOSA
SA LSA Y F RI TAS A H O RA !
Orders Placed by August 24th @
The Palms Front Desk -orCall (805) 543-2300
The Villages of San Luis Obispo
Retirement Living
Assisted Living
Memory Care
55 Broad Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
The Palms: 805.543.2300
The Oaks: 805.543.2342
73 Broad Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Administrator: Lea Bogoyevac
License #: 405800467
Garden Creek: 805.543.2311
1234 Laurel Lane
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Administrator: Kellie Gallegly
License #: 405800577
Sydney Creek: 805.543.2350
For More Information:
Jane Lefebre —805.543.2300
[email protected]
For More Information:
Julie White Eyes —805.543.2350
[email protected]
For More Information:
Jane Lefebre —805.543.2300
[email protected]
www.villagesofslo.com / www.sydneycreek.com
Back by popular demand for the 6th
year in a row, our own Margarita Perry
has returned to the kitchen to prepare
her mother’s secret salsa recipe. Trusted
sidekick Jeri O’Neill will assist, and
even she will never be told the secret
ingredient. Tickle your taste buds and
help find a cure for Alzheimer’s Disease at the same time! Sign up now to
order your own private stash of the best
homemade salsa and fresh corn tortilla
chips, warm from the oven.
Choose from three styles: If you like
yours hot hot hot, straight from hell’s
kitchen, order Diablo. If you like it very
warm but wish to save your tongue, order Caliente. If you can’t stand the heat
but love the tangy flavors, order the
Gringo. A generous container of salsa
only, is $5. The salsa and chips combo
is $10.
This popular annual event is fun,
delicious, and for such a good cause.
All orders must be paid and placed
in advance by August 24th, 2015. Call
805-543-2300 to sign up. Or stop by the
front desk at the Palms to pay and order
yours. We’ll tell you when to pick them
up. Delivery day is TBA.
All proceeds will be donated to the Alzheimer’s Association. Viva Margarita!
Viva la salsa!
August - Spicy Summer Fun
Summer is here and we are going to celebrate it with Salsa and
Song! Join us as we listen to jazz, dance the Jitterbug, and help the
Alzheimer’s Association by enjoying some of Margarita’s delicious
salsa. Grab your favorite tortilla chips and gather with your friends
for some summer fun across all The Villages campuses. We’ll see
you there!
Send a Song at Garden Creek!
Tuesday, 18th - Thursday, 20th
Some cardiologists suggest that all people could boost the health of their
hearts by listening to music. What a better way to enjoy a tune than being
sung to in person! The first singing telegram was delivered July 28th,
1933. It was delivered over the phone to Rudy Vallee, a famous American crooner and actor from the 30s, for his 32nd birthday. This week in
August, residents, families, and staff can request a singing telegram to
be sent to someone at The Villages Community and because it’s good for
our hearts, we are paying it forward even further; the proceeds of all sales
go to The American Heart Association.
Two for the Road Jazz Duo at The Villages!
Friday, 28th @ 3:00pm
The Palms Living Room
Two for the Road is back for another performance! Their music is guaranteed to be a delight. We know the musicians will do their best because
you need to hit all your notes when your mother is in the audience! That’s
right! Jim Miller is half of the duo that makes up Two for the Road and he
will be looking out for you, Jeanne!
Jitterbug Social at Sydney Creek!
Friday, 28th @ 3:00pm
Sydney Creek Community Center
New research published in the New England Journal of Medicine shows
that dancing dramatically reduces the symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Freestyle dancing requires constant, quick, decision
making, which is the key to maintaining intelligence because it forces
the brain to regularly rewire its neural pathways, helping better cognitive
responses. Life Enrichment is hosting a Jitterbug Social on August 28th
at 3pm in our Community Room. We encourage our residents to dress up,
come eat, drink, listen to music, and dance!