 |
Sign up for email updates, and a chance to win a free spa day! |
|
1-203-502-7593
3030 Park in the News
Phyllis Peckar Clamage will have her exhibit, “Looking Back”—a reflection on her art through the years— on display in the ArtPlace Gallery @ The Watermark at 3030 Park in Bridgeport
|
Bridgeport, CT - The Watermark at 3030 Park is pleased to announce the recent addition of Debra Basaldua as Director of Sales of the continuing care retirement community located at 3030 Park Ave in Bridgeport, Connecticut. |
The Watermark at 3030 Park is pleased to present student artwork from Sacred Heart University’s (SHU) Department of Graphic Design and Visual Arts. Student work is currently available for the public to view at The Watermark’s Gallery Café through December 5.
Ten students are represented in the exhibition: Jaclyn Fede of Massapequa Park, New York; Melissa Macdonald of Darien, CT; Chris Balzano of North Branford, CT; Maria Damianou of Monroe, CT; Kelly Gilleran of Redding, CT; Amy Rossi of Madison, CT; Aaron Rauth of Scarborough, Maine; Bryan Carmel of Manchester, CT; Julia Goldstein of Bellingham, MA; and Michelle Navarro of Piscataway, NJ.
“Part of the creative process is sharing your work with the public so that you can receive feedback and appreciation for all your hard work,” said Professor Nathan Lewis, Assistant Professor of Art at SHU. “The residents of The Watermark at 3030 Park expressed how much they love seeing artwork from our students, and we are very excited to have the opportunity to display student work again at the community.”
Last fall, The Watermark at 3030 Park partnered with the Department of Graphic Design and Visual Arts and The Gallery of Contemporary Art at SHU for its first student exhibition at the retirement community located on the Bridgeport/Fairfield line.
As part of its growing partnership with SHU, The Watermark at 3030 Park will be awarding a $1,000 scholarship to a student that has participated in an exhibition at the community. The award winner will be chosen by the art and design faculty at SHU, and the scholarship will be awarded in March during the annual student show at The Gallery of Contemporary Art on the SHU campus.
The student gallery at The Watermark at 3030 Park is open to the public Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, please call The Watermark at 3030 Park at 203-374-5611.By JUSTIN MAY
The Watermark at 3030 Park is pleased to announce three upcoming lectures offered through Watermark University, a continuing education program designed with interesting courses and topics to keep seniors’ brains and bodies fit.
On Friday, August 19, 2011 at 2:00 p.m., local historian Walter Matis will present “Industrial Revolution,” which will address the rise of industry in Bridgeport. Matis works as Program and Volunteer Coordinator for the Fairfield Museum and History Center.
On Sunday, August 21, 2011 at 2:30 p.m., Bridgeport Fire Department Lieutenant Robert Novak will lecture on the history of the Bridgeport Fire Department. Novak served as Executive Director of the Derby Historical Society for 14 years, and has been a professional local historian since 1991. In late 2010, Novak launched his website, Hometown History CT, with the mission of promoting Southwest Connecticut's history and heritage.
On Monday, August 22, 2011 at10:30 a.m., Roger Hart will present a lecture called “Country Dreams.” Using a slide show presentation with photos, music and narrations, Hart will illustrate country living in New England. Hart is a photographer that gives presentations on a range of topics.
The lectures are free of charge and open to the public. For more information, please call The Watermark at 3030 Park at 203-374-5611.
About The Watermark at 3030 Park:
The Watermark at 3030 Park, located at 3030 Park Avenue on the Bridgeport/Fairfield line in Connecticut, is a distinctive community for seniors, offering exceptional independent living, assisted living, skilled rehabilitation and memory care.Monica Szakacs, Staff Writer
BRIDGEPORT-- As Latin flare pumped through the iPod speakers in a small exercise room, five non-resident club members grooved to the music during a Zumba Gold fitness class at The Watermark at 3030 Park's Vitality Fitness Center.
Josephine Olsen, a 74-year-old Fairfield resident and first-time participant, said she loved every moment of the class. "It was easy to follow and she (the instructor) went at a good pace," Olsen said. "I didn't want to go to any local gyms because I didn't think I could keep up with the younger folks, but I wanted to be active."
Watermark at 3030 Park is a community for seniors that offers independent living, assisted living, skilled rehabilitation and memory care that first opened in 2006. About three and a half years ago, the Vitality Fitness Center opened up as part of The Club, which is a 20,000-square-foot wellness center.
The club includes a resort-style salon and day spa, Gallery Cafe, heated indoor pool, locker room facilities, fitness center with equipment designed for active older adults, personal trainers and exercise classes taught by nationally certified fitness instructors.
Watermark wanted to reach out to the 50-plus community with a less intimidating and comfortable setting to exercise, according to the Cindy McGuire, fitness director. Last week Vitality Fitness Center hosted an open house for more non-residents to have the opportunity to become members.
"Fitness is extremely important for all ages," McGuire said. "You're never too old to exercise and you're never too old to get the benefits of exercise."
As people get older, McGuire said their bone and muscle density and skin elasticity decreases. Keeping the body in motion, such as cardio workouts and working out the muscles with weights, help in these issues as well as other medical problems.
Other targets that the fitness center focuses on are stretch and balance.
"All the classes implement some type of balance and stretch, but we have one class that specifically targets stretch and balance," she said.
McGuire teaches three classes: stretch and balance, splash fitness and fun aerobics. She said it makes her happy when the older community benefit from the programs.
"I like to see members come in and two to three months later they have results, such as climbing stairs without huffing and puffing or they're able to decrease their medication," she said.
Although McGuire does not instruct zumba gold, taught by Suzanne Palazzi, she said it is her favorite class because of the music and moves. Palazzi said zumba brings pleasure to all walks of life.
David Carasso, 89-year old Bridgeport resident, and his wife Colette Carasso, 77, said the zumba gold class is a full body workout. Carasso said she feels good when she gets home. "My favorite part is the whole thing, but the stretching really puts the icing on the cake," she said.
"It's worth every penny, especially when they start to shake, because it's a sight for sore eyes," Carasso said.
The Carassos said the fitness center is interested in their health and constantly monitor the members. "Exercise is tedious and I've been to many gyms before, but here there is a welcoming aura and a comfortable non-judgmental environment," Colette Carasso said.
Bridgeport, CT - From May 3 through June 29, Fairfield and Westport based artist David Pressler and Westport based artist Toby Michaels will have their work featured at ArtPlace Gallery @ The Watermark at 3030 Park in an exhibit titled “Creative Diversity.” A reception will be held at the gallery on Wednesday, May 11, at 2:00 p.m., at which time they will present their work, engage guests in discussion and answer questions.
The title of the exhibit, “Creative Diversity,” relates to both the creative variety found within both of the artists’ individual works, but also the creative diversity between their two collections of work.
Pressler holds a BFA in Industrial Design from Rhode Island School of Design and has studied at the Smithsonian Institute, Washington, DC, and Silvermine Guild Arts Center, New Canaan, CT, where he is currently a Guild Member and former Trustee. His work is in numerous collections, including Bridgeport Hospital's Heart Institute in Fairfield and St. Vincent's Hospital Special Needs Center in Stratford. He has exhibited his work at a number of galleries, corporations and organizations including: the Silvermine Guild Arts Center, Westport Arts Center, Nylen Gallery in Westport, Vertrue Corporation, American Museum of Natural History in New York City, Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago, and The Hudson River Museum in Yonkers, New York.
“For my exhibit, I have selected groups of work that are diversified and that may be viewed as visual chapters in my creative activity over time,” said Pressler. “I look forward to meeting residents and guests at the reception, answering questions and providing a tour of my work.”
Michaels, a registered art therapist and licensed counselor, started out as an elementary school art teacher before becoming interested in the emerging field of art therapy. After earning degrees in art therapy and counseling, she initiated a therapy program for Norwalk Hospital's Department of Psychiatry, where she was in practice for 17 years, and later Silver Hill Hospital in New Canaan. She lives in Westport and continues to counsel adults through her private practice.
Michaels has selected a spectrum of works for this exhibition that demonstrate how her spiritual and metaphysical adventures have yielded multiple forms of expression.
“Making art for me becomes a doorway into Self-Knowledge, allowing for a deep connection to a Higher Source, the basis of all creativity,” said Michaels. “My abstract paintings inspire me to inquire into the “unseen,” the endless cosmic and universal possibilities that give life to artistic expression.”
ArtPlace’s main gallery is located at 11 Unquowa Road in downtown Fairfield. The collaboration between the retirement community and non-profit, cooperative art gallery aims to provide both residents and guests of The Watermark at 3030 Park with the opportunity to experience the work of fine artists such as Rohrer.
ArtPlace Gallery @ The Watermark is open Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, please call The Watermark at 3030 Park at 203-374-5611.
About The Watermark at 3030 Park
The Watermark at 3030 Park, located at 3030 Park Avenue on the Bridgeport/Fairfield line in Connecticut, is a distinctive community for seniors, offering exceptional independent living, assisted living, skilled rehabilitation and memory care. The Watermark at 3030 Park is professionally managed by Watermark Retirement Communities, a company committed to creating extraordinary communities where people thrive. For more information, please visit www.watermarkcommunities.com/3030park.
About ArtPlace Gallery
Formed in 1981, ArtPlace is a non-profit, cooperative art gallery comprised of painters, printmakers, photographers and sculptors. With its main gallery located in the center of downtown Fairfield next to the Community Theater, ArtPlace presents regular monthly exhibitions, free of charge and open to the public. ArtPlace members and invited guest artists represent a broad spectrum of focus and perceptions expressed through a variety of media
“At The Watermark at 3030 Park, we are constantly working to create a community that celebrates the arts and can serve as a resource for the public,” said Kevin Hunter, Executive Director at The Watermark at 3030 Park. “We are pleased to have ongoing partnerships with visual and performance artists from the area and we regularly feature prominent authors and musicians at our community, always free of charge and open to the public. Our partnership with SHU is just one more example of the direction we are looking to take the community.”
The concept behind the SHU student exhibit was developed by Watermark resident Al Johnson, who began working with Sophia Gevas, SHU’s Director of The Gallery of Contemporary Art, in September 2010. Johnson believed The Watermark would offer the perfect setting to feature the artwork of students from around the area.
“I always thought it would be wonderful to feature a continuum of artwork from a range of artists, including area grade school students, university students, and professionals,” said Johnson. “We have so many great spaces at our community to utilize and so many wonderful artists in the Greater Bridgeport and Fairfield area whose work should be featured for the public to appreciate.”
Gevas agreed with Johnson’s concept and contacted Professor Nathan Lewis, Assistant Professor of Art at SHU, for his help. The two worked with Hunter, Johnson and Marlane Argianas, Community Life Assistant at The Watermark, to finalize the details and install the artwork.
“One of the factors of growing older and staying vibrant is to incorporate culture in your life,” said Gevas. “The student gallery at The Watermark will give the residents and the public the opportunity to view work from young, exciting artists, and will also give the students significant exposure that they might not have had otherwise.”
Eleven students are represented in the exhibition: Kristen Buchholz, Julia Goldstein, Aaron Rauth, Stephany Ferrebee, Amanda Wenger, Kelly Gilleran, Asami Green, Maria Damianou, Bruna Zavan, Markie Schmidt, and Ryan Calder, as well as one piece from Professor Lewis.
“The wealth of talent, skill and imagination of the students is evidenced by their work,” said Professor Lewis. “The exhibition is a wonderful example of The Watermark and SHU strengthening the artistic community, the department is delighted to have the opportunity to work with the Watermark to highlight our students’ artwork.”
There will be a closing reception for the featured students in the Gallery Café on Thursday, March 31 at 7:30 p.m., free of charge and open to the public. The gallery is open to the public Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, please call The Watermark at 3030 Park at 203-374-5611.
"I love it here," she said. "There is a swimming pool and..."
"And a lot of men that are not as good looking as me," said Seymour, 85, who lives at Embassy Towers.
"What else do you do, besides fooling around with me," he asked, obviously flirting.
"Well, what else is there to do besides fooling around with you," Leigh said, playing along.
Leigh and Seymour, like the others participating in Watermark's first senior speed dating event declined to give their last names, had fun getting to know each other Wednesday afternoon -- if only for five minutes.
The event, which was hosted by CTMatch.com, got off to a rough start. Only 16 of the 20 men who registered actually showed up, while about 24 women participated.
But, the single seniors quickly got into a groove. Although the men were supposed to visit a different lady's table every five minutes until they had met everyone, some men doubled back when no one was looking.
Peter and Lynn, for example, chatted twice, discussing the government bailout and deficit. An hour into the event, Peter was the only person Lynn thought had potential for a second date. Everyone else, she said, was well, too senior.
The 57-year-old said she hadn't expected all of the men to be 70 or older. "The guys over there, they can't hear you and they get tongue-tied," the part-time aerobic instructor said. "The last guy I dated was 44 and couldn't keep up with me."
Westport resident Lois, 71, whose husband died two years ago, also wished the men were younger.
"My husband would have been the age of some of them," she said, "but he looked much better."
Every participant had a different tactic Wednesday in the speed dating event.
Richard liked to tell the women about his love for watching the stock market on television, which elicited very different reactions. "Oh, I love it; I love the stock market," was Lois' response.
But Jeanette, 72, who was hoping for instant attraction or chemistry with someone, preferred traveling over television.
"How depressing," was her response to Richard's daily entertainment choice. "What do you do for fun?" she asked him.
"What do I do for fun? I watch the stock market," Richard said.
"Oh, that's not fun," Jeanette replied.
Dottie, a Fairfield resident in her early 70s, said she was looking for someone who shared the same interests. "I would like to go to a movie or dinner or a walk or a concert with someone else, with a man," she said. But alas, five minutes was not long enough to determine whether someone was worth seeing again, she determined.
Only men and women who had circled "yes" next to each other's names would be given contact information.
"What I tell people is if the time goes by quickly, circle yes," said Robert Tamiso, the CTMatch.com event organizer. "If the time drags on, circle no."
Kevin Hunter, executive director at Watermark, said the purpose of the event was to get the seniors to socialize and meet new people, especially in time for Valentine's Day. "The folks here still have a lot of years ahead of them," he said. "So many folks are so isolated if they are not active in their church or a senior center. That's not healthy."
A second speed dating session scheduled for March is already booked and the Watermark is considering making the event a monthly occurrence. Of the hundreds of residents living at the Park Avenue facility, there are only 14 married couples.
See photos here.
Read Advance for Long Term Care Magazine’s “Trends in Long Term Care Design” feature, which takes a look back at the magazine’s 2010 Architecture and Design columns and identifies the best of the best and biggest trends in design.
The workshops will be offered through Watermark University, a continuing education program designed with interesting topics and activities to keep seniors’ minds and bodies fit.
The first workshop, “Drawing from a Still Life Arrangement,” will take place on Wednesday, Jan. 5 at 2 p.m. Participants will have their choice of working with pastel or watercolors. The second workshop, “An Introduction to Printing Techniques,” will take place on Wednesday, Jan. 19, at 2 p.m. Both workshops are open to artists of all skill levels.
Zolan is a founding member of ArtPlace Gallery in Fairfield. She received her master’s degree in fine arts from Hunter College and studied art at the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon, Pratt Manhattan Graphic Center and The New School. She has taught children and adults, and formerly taught printmaking at the Museum of Modern Art.
Zolan currently works with pastels, collage and printmaking, and specifically focuses on the relationships between color and form. She serves on the curatorial committee of the Kershner Gallery at the Fairfield Public Library. In addition to ArtPlace Gallery, she is also an artist member of Silvermine Guild of Art.
To attend Watermark University’s upcoming art workshops, please RSVP by calling 203-816-6986. For more information or to request a Watermark University course catalog, call The Watermark at 3030 Park at 203-374-5611.
Suzanne Bastos is Rehabilitation Supervisor at The Watermark at 3030 Park.
Before and after surgery, or when faced with unexpected health issues, seniors require more specialized care to remain independent. This specialized treatment could come in the form of skilled nursing care.
Many seniors think, "I'm active enough. I can recover on my own without anyone's help or without leaving my home." However, skilled nursing care can be far more beneficial than trying to recover on your own or with home care. Whether located in a stand-alone building or part of a larger community, skilled nursing care can mean the difference between a smooth healing process and a slower, more challenging recovery.
Skilled nursing care operations offer prehabilitation, rehabilitation, balance assessment, fall pervention and aqua therapy.
Typically, a stay in a skilled nursing care center is short term, until the patient is cleared by a therapist or doctor. Services are provided five to six days a week, versus two to three days a week in home health services. Skilled nursing typically has a wider variety of equipment than the patient may use in a home health care setting, as a home health therapist is limited to what he or she can carry with them in their car and what the patient may have in the home
. One of the most important features of skilled nursing care is human interaction on a daily basis, which helps patients cope with rehabilitation mentally and physically. Patients act as support systems for one another. In short term rehabilitation facilities, recreational therapy is also offered, providing individuals with entertainment and socialization opportunities.
A doctor's referral is required for rehabilitation services according to insurance guidelines. In order for Medicare to cover a short term rehabilitation stay, a three-day hospital stay is required. Medicare will continue to cover rehabilitation services in a skilled nursing care center for a period of up to 100 days, as long as the individual is making progress in rehabilitation. Medicare also covers home health services and outpatient rehabilitation services after a stay.
Suzanne Bastos is Rehabilitation Supervisor at The Watermark at 3030 Park.
Architecture & Design
Over the past several years, we have seen a dramatic swing in the way we design space for today's seniors. A new generation of vital seniors demands a living environment that not only reflects their active lifestyle, but also represents a space where they are comfortable and feel at home. The sterile, drab institutional setting is simply no longer acceptable.
Teaming Up
In August 2006, Watermark Retirement Communities acquired New England's first CCRC, in Bridgeport, Conn. The Watermark at 3030 Park property is a 10-story high-rise residence sitting on 14 acres of land, with views of the Long Island Sound and just minutes from transportation to New York City.
Unfortunately, there had been very few updates to the building itself since it was built in the 1960s. The campus had deteriorated over the years and offered little for its residents in terms of recreation, dining and social interaction, and the community was ultimately placed in state receivership.
With the help of investment and development partner the Freshwater Group, Watermark invested more than $40 million in renovation and expansion of the historic retirement community. They created a space that appeals to today's seniors looking for a stylish, vibrant and active environment.
Transforming the Space
The design team started by renovating an under-utilized ground level in the tower building, creating The Club, a 20,000 square-foot wellness center that includes a resort-style salon and day spa, a heated indoor pool, and a fitness center featuring a Pilates room. Additionally, an eco-friendly, sidewalk-style café with fireside seating was added, offering residents and guests plenty of opportunity for socializing on their way to and from The Club.
With its high energy colors complemented by natural earth tones, layers of warm lighting and views of indoor and outdoor activities, The Club encourages social interaction. Eco-friendly materials, such as bamboo and lyptus, were used throughout the space. Cool colors and glass accents in the pool create a relaxing environment for therapeutic exercise.
The renovation of the main building involved turning 330 studio apartments into 180 one- and two-bedroom residences. Ranging in size from 597 square feet to 1800 square feet, independent living apartments were completely revamped to reflect the needs of today's seniors.
Each apartment now features oversized windows and modern kitchens with solid surface countertops, frost-free refrigerators, cook top/oven combinations, microwaves and dishwashers.
Some apartments were also renovated to offer single and double balconies with views of the Long Island Sound. Crown molding and upgraded base molding, along with wall-to-wall carpet and ceramic tile add to the upgrades. Each apartment also has ample closet space and was wired with individually controlled thermostats for heating and cooling.
In addition to the Gallery Café, the renovation and repositioning plan included a new dining venue, The Mark, which features an open floor plan with large walls of glass overlooking the community gardens. Additionally, the adjacent W Room was added to be a relaxed environment for enjoying a casual meal separate from the main dining room. Regularly featuring sporting events and other programs of interest on high-definition, flat screen televisions, the W Room is now a favored gathering place for residents to enjoy a glass of wine before dinner with family and friends.
New Options
Designed to attract the younger senior and replicate a higher-end home, Watermark and the Freshwater Group created The Cottages at 3030 Park: four limited availability, upscale options for seniors. Each residence has two bedrooms and contains over 2,000 square feet of private living space. Residents of The Cottages have access to all of the services and amenities available to residents of The Watermark at 3030 Park.
Each cottage contains a large great room with vaulted ceilings, a gas fireplace with marble and stone surround and a wet bar. The spacious open design kitchen features high-end finishes, stainless steel appliances, ceramic tile flooring with backsplash and a breakfast nook.
French doors made with custom hardware open to separate the dining room or den from the rest of the space. The master bedroom features a vaulted tray ceiling and walk-in closet, master bath with double vanity fixtures, ceramic tile and a heated floor. Each cottage has a second bedroom with a full guest bath.
In addition to creating The Club, renovating the main building and adding The Cottages, the team also renovated a two-story auxiliary building connected to the main building. Opened in the winter of 2009, the health center features three areas: The Inn, which houses assisted living apartments; The Springs, a state-of-the-art rehabilitation and skilled nursing center; and The Gardens, a space for residents coping with memory loss issues that also features an outdoor garden. Each area allows residents to bring their own furniture and other belongings into their spaces to make it feel like home.
Inspired by today's seniors, we feel we have created an ideal environment for residents and guests to make connections, engage in a variety of meaningful programs, and feel comfortable at the same time.
Rachel Rangelov is regional construction director for Watermark Retirement Communities, Bridgeport, Conn.
Ms. Shalen is a teacher of drawing and painting from life, and portfolio development at both the Art Students League of New York and Silvermine Guild Arts Center in New Canaan, Conn. She has exhibited in New York City at Allan Stone Gallery, in London at Abbot & Holder, in Martha’s Vineyard at the Carol Craven Gallery, and currently at Fielder & Fielder in Chilmark, Mass. Ms. Shalen has been awarded for her artistic achievements by the Hudson Valley Art Association, the Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club, and received the High Winds medal from the American Watercolor Society.
“My art reflects my surroundings,” said Ms. Shalen. “While teaching in New York City, I have been affected by the plight of the homeless and it is my hope that my work will draw attention to their predicament. I usually create work in a series using multiple media including charcoal, reed pen and watercolor to capture the spirit and body language of the subject.”
ArtPlace Gallery @ The Watermark is open Monday through Saturday, 8 to 8, and Sunday, 8 to 5. Information: 203-374-5611.
“Watermark University courses are designed to help seniors discover new passions and interests,” said Michelle Bettigole, Executive Director of The Watermark at East Hill. “From language and poetry, to Pilates and cooking, we have so many courses to choose from, and we always encourage residents, associates, family members and guests to come out and share what they love with the community.”
In an effort to help seniors stay active in both mind and body, Watermark University offers senior-specific strength training and splash fitness courses. Both communities feature The Club, a senior health and wellness center that includes a heated indoor pool, salon and day spa and fitness center with equipment designed for seniors.
“Whether it’s in the fitness center or in the pool, seniors can begin a regular training program at any time to help build strength, muscular endurance and flexibility, as well as improve posture,” said Cindy Fallon McGuire, The Watermark at 3030 Park’s Fitness Director. “Consistent physical activity will leave seniors feeling great, and as their fitness level improves they will be amazed by their progress and potential.”
All Watermark University courses are open to the public, and most of them are free of charge. For more information on Watermark University at The Watermark at East Hill, please call 203-262-6868. For more information on Watermark University at The Watermark at 3030 Park, please call 203-374-5611.
Read the post. New window will open.
Geraldine W. Johnson of Bridgeport is well known for her years of hard work and dedication to the school system and the community.
Now The HistoryMakers, a national nonprofit video archive of African-American history, is coming to Bridgeport to make sure Johnson’s story is included in a collection that includes the video oral history interviews of President Barack Obama, Gen. Colin Powell, Marion Wright Edelman and almost 2,000 other people from across the United States and abroad.
Johnson, 91, was the first female and first African-American school superintendent in Bridgeport from 1976 to 1981. Earlier, she had been the first female and African-American school principal in Bridgeport. She later served as Fairfield interim school superintendent.
A few years ago, a new city public school off North Avenue was named after Johnson, who remains active in the community and lives at The Watermark at 3030 Park retirement community.
While in Connecticut, The HistoryMakers also will interview multi-cultural educator Donald George in New Haven and investment executive Gwendolyn Smith Iloani in Hartford.
Julieanna L. Richardson, founder and executive director of The HistoryMakers, said the goal is to archive the oral histories of 5,000 African-Americans on digital video. The HistoryMakers previously interviewed Peter Hurst, chief executive officer of The Community's Bank in Bridgeport.
According to HistoryMakers publicity material, not since the recording of former slaves during the WPA Movement of the 1930s has there been a methodic and wide-scale attempt to capture the testimonies of African-Americans.
The content of The HistoryMakers archive is accessible on its Web site at thehistorymakers.comMillions of adults and their families across the country are affected by memory loss issues, including Alzheimer's disease, a brain disorder that destroys brain cells. As life expectancy increases, the number of people who are impacted grows, making memory loss an even more prominent issue for Americans, particularly those over the age of 60. Families often mistake the initial stages of memory loss or Alzheimer's disease, writing it off as forgetfulness or normal aging; correcting this misunderstanding is best achieved through education and awareness.
What is Alzheimer's
Alzheimer's disease was first diagnosed in 1906 by Dr. Alois Alzheimer, a German neurologist and psychiatrist. Its symptoms were once considered to be synonymous with normal aging or senility, until the 1970s when the medical community developed new tests to identify the disease. Over the last 20 years, specialists have established genetic links to the disease through pathophysiology, making it possible to slow Alzheimer's progression using a range of treatments and exercises.
Risk factors
Age continues to be the strongest risk factor for experiencing memory loss. People over the age of 65 are at higher risk than the population overall, and this risk increases with age. Additionally, people with an immediate relative with memory loss issues or Alzheimer's disease have a 10 to 30 percent higher risk of developing the disease. Other genetic factors, such as a history of cholesterol problems or diabetes, increase the risks for developing Alzheimer's. Overall, evidence suggests that three lifestyle components -- social, mental and physical activity -- are inversely associated with memory loss and Alzheimer's disease. In other words, the more you interact with others and stimulate your brain and body, the smaller the chance that you will experience memory loss.
Knowing the signs
Memory impairment is the most prominent symptom of Alzheimer's disease, and is often its earliest symptom. Language dysfunction is also an initial sign, including difficulty finding words, ambiguous or roundabout speech and reduced vocabulary. The misplacement of items or difficulty navigating in first unfamiliar, then familiar terrain can also indicate memory loss. Later signs include the inability to recognize objects and faces. Family members and coworkers may also notice that someone suffering from memory loss issues or Alzheimer's disease is generally less motivated and engaged, and are likely to be agitated, uninhibited and may even act irrationally at times.
How to avoid and deal with memory issues
So you may ask: "What are some measures I can take to slow down the process of memory loss, or what can my parents or grandparents do to try to prevent any issues from arising?" While there is no simple answer to these questions, we have found that as long as there are no other serious medical conditions, seniors should maintain or increase physical activity and exercise, especially those with early signs of memory loss, or those at a higher risk.
Similarly, seniors should continue to partake in activities that stimulate their brains, such as taking fun language courses or solving crosswords and other puzzles. Additionally, maintaining social interaction with neighbors, friends and loved ones can help slow down the process of memory loss. Eating a healthy diet can also help, including less cholesterol and fats, and more antioxidants.
Options for families
For seniors suffering from mild to moderate memory loss who live assisted living or memory care communities, a home-like environment is the ideal setting.
This allows for the caregiver to provide the resident with individualized, hands-on care without administering drugs, which is imperative in helping those suffering from memory loss issues or Alzheimer's disease remain social and in a positive mood. Some potentially beneficial options include a towel bath, aromatherapy, music and pet therapy, exercise training, and message and touch therapy.
The structured routine of a home-like environment also helps people with memory loss or Alzheimer's disease to remain independent. This setting allows for social interaction with other residents and enhances visits from family and friends, who feel more comfortable visiting their loved one in a home-like setting as opposed to a "facility," which feels sterile or institutional. It also provides their families with the peace of mind that their loved one is being supervised and promptly taken care of if in need.
Many of us are affected by the difficult issues that memory loss and Alzheimer's disease present, but if you are armed with the right attitude and the right knowledge, you can help a loved one continue to live a positive, fulfilling life.
Dr. Rahul Gupta is the memory care medical director at The Watermark at 3030 Park on the Fairfield line.
The Watermark at 3030 Park will host a Lunch & Learn program, "An Inside Look at Alzheimer's disease and Memory Care for Seniors," on Tuesday, April 20, from noon to 2 p.m. at the senior living community located on the Bridgeport/Fairfield line. The program is free of charge and open to the public. Gupta will be the guest speaker for the program and will be available to answer any memory loss or memory care questions guests have. R.S.V.P. by April 18 by calling 203-374-5611.
The Watermark at 3030 Park will offer nearly 40 courses for local senior citizens, covering topics such as U.S. history, world cooking, wine, travel, computers, fitness and yoga.
Watermark University is a continuing education program for seniors, designed to keep their minds and bodies fit and to discover new passions and interests.
John Dos Passos, a Watermark at 3030 Park resident, will teach the History of the United States course. It will focus on the stories of the many courageous men and women who have shaped the country.
World Exploration Culinary 101 with Chef Tom Minotti will allow participants to learn about the traditions and languages of various cultures across the world, through cooking lessons.
Cindy Fallon McGuire, Watermark fitness director, will offer senior-tailored strength training and splash fitness courses. “Through consistent physical activity, seniors can reap the many benefits of exercise and properly condition muscles that are essential to carrying out daily activities,” McGuire said.
All Watermark University courses are open to the public, and most are free. Request a course catalog by calling 203-374-5611.
Parkinson's support group
The Watermark at 3030 Park, 3030 Park Ave., Bridgeport, will host a Parkinson's Support Group meeting Thursday from 10 to 11:30 a.m. The meeting will feature guest speaker Dr. Janine Hatch, clinical associate professor in the physical therapy program at Sacred Heart University. The topic of her lecture is "Exercise Essentials for Quality of Life with Parkinson's Disease."
Hatch will educate guests on the elements of a safe and effective exercise program as it pertains to people living with Parkinson's disease, as well as how maintaining their physical fitness will help them achieve a higher quality of living. Parkinson's Support Group meetings at the Watermark at 3030 Park take place the second Thursday of each month, and are always free and open to the public. For more information call Ann Marie Fekete at 203-374-5611.
Program on personal wellness
Dr. David Brady, vice provost of the University of Bridgeport Division of Health Sciences and director of the Human Nutrition Institute, will answer many commonly asked health questions when he speaks at the Trumbull Library, 33 Quality St. at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday. Brady's free lecture, "Just What You Need to Know to Stay Vital, Resilient, and Healthy in a Sick World," will cover such issues as making sense of conflicting diet advice, simple lifestyle changes to reduce stress, the safety and effectiveness of herbs, and whether or not vitamins and supplements are really necessary. The presentation will be followed by a question-and-answer session. For more information, call 203-576-4978.
Colon cancer program
Norwalk Hospital is sponsoring a program on "The Prevention and Treatment of Colon Cancer" on Tuesday at 7 p.m., in the hospital's Richard S. Perkin Auditorium. Dr. Seth A. Gross, a gastroenterologist and Director of advanced endoscopy at the hospital, is the featured speaker.
Call 203-852-2250 for more information.
Mammography screenings
St. Vincent's Medical Center's SWIM Women's Imaging Center will offer the following free and low-cost digital mammography screening for women age 35 and older during March:
n Thursday, 1 to 5 p.m., St. Mary's Church, 76 Gulf St., Milford
March 17, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Park City Primary Care, 64 Black Rock Ave., Bridgeport
March 25, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Stratford Health Department, 468 Birdseye St.
March 29, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Carriage Green at Milford, 77 Plains Road.
Mammograms are free for those who do not have health insurance, have financial limitations and qualify for assistance. For those who do not have insurance but do not qualify for free services, mammograms are discounted. Appointments are necessary and a physician order and insurance card must be brought to the appointment.
To schedule an appointment or to find out when the unit is scheduled, call St. Vincent's SWIM Women's Imaging Center at 203-576-5500.
To schedule a screening site for a business, community center, school or church, call 203-576-5505.
Sleep Expo at hospital
Bridgeport Hospital's Center for Sleep Medicine will host a free health fair focused on sleep disorders from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Thursday in the hospital's main lobby, 267 Grant St.
Participants have an opportunity to learn about sleep apnea, links between sleep disorders and other conditions, such as diabetes, and other topics, such as adjusting to daylight saving time, which begins Sunday when clocks are moved one hour ahead. Screenings also will be offered.
Smoking cessation program
Those looking to quit smoking may want to check out a free smoking cessation program that begins March 18 at Norwalk Hospital. The hospital's pulmonary medicine unit is offering this six-session program that runs March 18, 23, 25 and April 1, 8 and 22. All sessions run 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the third- floor respiratory classroom, 34 Maple St.
The program provides information about smoking and quitting and provides social support. Early registration is requested. For more information or to register, call 203 852-2484.
Camp for special guests
Children who have been diagnosed with cancer are invited to attend the American Cancer Society's Camp Rising Sun Mini-Camp Weekend March 20 to 21 at Camp Jewell YMCA in Colebrook.
The free overnight stay affords time for exploring, activities and making new friends. The camp is open to children 5 to 17 who are being treated for cancer or who are in remission.
The full session of camp will take place Aug. 22 to 27. Activities will include swimming, photography, magic tricks, board games, hiking, horseback riding and boating.
For more information or to register, visit www.cancer.org/camprisingsun, e-mail tina.saunders@cancer.org or call 800-227.2345
Weston artist Binnie Birstein and Fairfield artist Susan Newbold will have their work featured at ArtPlace Gallery @ The Watermark at 3030 Park through April 30. The title of their exhibit is “Looking Back.”
Birstein is an award-winning artist originally from New York City. Her work has been shown throughout the country, most recently at the Silvermine Guild Art Center in New Canaan. Birstein also teaches workshops for teachers and offers small group and private instruction at her studio in Weston.
Newbold is an award-winning mixed-media artist who has exhibited, taught and studied extensively within the United States and abroad. Her work has been collected by private donors, as well as institutions, and she has been invited to participate in solo and juried exhibitions at several regional museums, galleries and art centers.
The collaboration between the senior living community and non-profit, cooperative art gallery aims to provide both residents and guests of The Watermark at 3030 Park with the opportunity to experience the work of local artists such as Birstein and Newbold. A reception will be held for both artists on Wednesday, March 10 at 2 p.m., at which time they will talk about their work on display and answer guests’ questions.
ArtPlace Gallery @ The Watermark is open Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, please call The Watermark at 3030 Park at 203-374-5611.
On Thursday, February 18, The Watermark at 3030 Park will host a guest lecture from Augusta Read Thomas, composer-in-residence with the New Haven Symphony Orchestra (NHSO). The event will be held in the main lounge at 1:30 p.m., and is free of charge and open to the public.
Thomas' orchestral compositions have been performed by the Berlin Philharmonic, the New York Philharmonic, the Philadelphia Orchestra, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, the Cleveland Orchestra, the National Symphony, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the BBC Symphony Orchestra.
Thomas' lecture at The Watermark at 3030 Park will precede "Kavafian Plays Mozart," NHSO's performance with violinist Ani Kavafian, on Friday, February 19 at the Edgerton Center at Sacred Heart University. "Kavafian Plays Mozart" will feature a performance of Thomas' composition, Prayer & Celebration.
"Ms. Thomas will share her composition process, from inception to completion, with residents and guests of The Watermark at 3030 Park," said Aric Isaacs, Director of Patron Services for NHSO. "Additionally, she will discuss her composition that will be performed in concert the following evening at Sacred Heart University."
Thomas studied composition at Tanglewood, Yale and the Royal Academy of Music in London. Her discography includes 43 commercially recorded CDs.
"I have always found delight in sound and have had a curiosity for its many elements; I love making things up out of thin air," said Thomas. "The love of other composers' repertoires, and an overall love of instruments and playing music, inspired me to pursue music composition as a career. I hope to continue to improve and grow as an artist, and to compose many more works for performance."
In 2007, Thomas' composition, Astral Canticle, was one of two finalists for the Pulitzer Prize in Music. In 2009, Thomas was elected a member of The American Academy and Institute of Arts and Letter, an honor considered the highest formal recognition of artistic merit in the United States.
On Sunday, January 31, The Watermark at 3030 Park will present award-winning authors Jim and Nikoo McGoldrick as part of its acclaimed Book and Author Series. The husband and wife writing team will speak from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. in the auditorium of the senior living community.
For over 30 years, the McGoldrick’s have been writing together using various pseudonyms, which change depending on the type of novel that they are writing. The two primarily write contemporary mystery/suspense novels under the pen name “Jan Coffey,” but have also written historical romance novels as “May McGoldrick” and historical romantic comedy as “Nicole Cody.” Altogether, the McGoldrick’s have penned 29 bestselling and award-winning novels.
“We each have our own strengths. Sometimes we write different chapters and then edit each other’s work, and other times we are sitting next to each other at the keyboard, fighting over words and phrases,” said Nikoo McGoldrick. “It is a creative and often comical process, which we are looking forward to discussing with residents and guests of The Watermark at 3030 Park.”
Nikoo McGoldrick was born in Iran and comes from a background in mechanical engineering. Jim McGoldrick is a former college professor with a Ph.D. in British Literature. Their historical novels have taken readers to the Scottish Highlands and the courts of the Tudor kings, while their mystery and suspense novels have taken place in the mansions of Newport, the mountains of Kurdistan, and the dark recesses of a hijacked nuclear submarine.
The McGoldrick’s will also discuss their newest project, an intergenerational tale of three women fighting for freedom in Connecticut and the streets of Iran, at The Watermark at 3030 Park. Light refreshments will also be served.
Two resident artists from The Watermark at 3030 Park are featured in the 2010 edition of Watermark Expressions, a calendar celebrating active aging and the arts.
Artists from The Watermark at 3030 Park competed against hundreds of residents from 11 Watermark communities across the country for a place in the 2010 calendar. Expert judges assessed work at each community, selecting the best pieces to be sent to Watermark Retirement Communities' headquarters in Tucson, Arizona. From there, the finalists were selected and awarded a place in this year's calendar. Among the winners from The Watermark at 3030 Park are Frances Barry and Bob Hartmann.
"Our community is filled with artists and art lovers and we're glad they have the opportunity to showcase their creative talents in the annual calendar competition," said Roger Sliby, Executive Director of The Watermark at 3030 Park. "From the newly established ArtPlace Gallery at The Watermark, to Watermark University art courses, we offer our residents and the community several options to explore their creative side."
Resident Frances Barry's winning submission "A Farm in Vermont," is featured for the month of April. Adept at acrylics and oils, Ms. Barry recently expanded her brush skills to include watercolor, which she describes as "extremely challenging, but lots of fun."
A former public school teacher, Ms. Barry is an active volunteer at The Watermark at 3030 Park, serving as Residents Council Chair of Education and Culture, Library Committee Chair, and as a pen pal in The Watermark's Intergenerational Program with fourth graders of Curiale Elementary School. Ms. Barry grew up in Santa Fe, New Mexico and is the former Art Director for the Museum of Northern Arizona.
Resident Bob Hartmann's scrimshaw money clip, "Treasure Ship," was awarded honorable mention for 2010. A retired Engineering Manager of Exploratory Research at DuPont Remington Arms, Mr. Hartmann has practiced woodworking, sculpting, scrimshaw, and photography for over 70 years.
The calendar is available to the public at no charge while supplies last. If you would like a calendar, contact The Watermark at 3030 Park at 203-374-5611.
Cate M. Leach to exhibit “Recent Works” at senior living community through December
Bridgeport, CT (October 30, 2009) – Starting November 2, Darien artist Cate M. Leach will have her work featured at ArtPlace Gallery @ The Watermark through the month of December. ArtPlace Gallery @ The Watermark is located at 3030 Park Avenue on the Bridgeport/Fairfield line, and is free of charge and open to the public.
Originally a dancer with the New York City Ballet, Leach is an accomplished painter who cites music as an influence for her work. Leach has exhibited throughout Connecticut and New York, and is a member of such artist organizations as the Silvermine Guild Art Center, Connecticut Women Artists, and Loft Artists Association. She is also a former Darien Arts Council board member.
“My work represents what is most personal to me; my love of color and my love of painting,” said Leach. “I am very pleased to have the opportunity to share my work with both residents and guests of The Watermark at 3030 Park.”
The collaboration between the senior living community and non-profit, cooperative art gallery aims to provide both residents and guests of The Watermark at 3030 Park with the opportunity to experience the work of local artists such as Leach. A reception will be held for Ms. Leach on Wednesday, November 11 at 2:00 p.m., at which time she will address her work on display and answer any questions guests might have.
ArtPlace Gallery @ The Watermark is open Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, please call The Watermark at 3030 Park at 203-374-5611.
The Connecticut Chapter of The Alzheimer’s Association and The Watermark at 3030 Park are pleased to present the four-part HBO documentary, “The Alzheimer’s Project.” The public is invited to view and discuss this multi-platform series, which reveals groundbreaking Alzheimer discoveries and the effects this debilitating and fatal disease has on seniors and their families.
The Watermark at 3030 Park will host screenings of the documentary and panel discussions on October 29, November 5, 12 and 18 at 6 p.m. in the auditorium of the senior living community.
For More Information:
Phone: 860-839-1538
The Watermark at 3030 Park in Bridgeport recently hosted a luncheon to honor six women for living extraordinary lives. Honorees included Frances Barry, former art director for the Museum of Northern Arizona; Geraldyn "Gerry" Eckber, a former freelance writer and photojournalist; Geraldine Johnson, Bridgeport's first female and African-American principal and superintendent; Jan Park, founding member of the Bridgeport Child Advocacy Coalition; Mary Beth Stickley, director of Early Childhood for the Bridgeport Board of Education and developer of the Classical Studies Academy; and 106-year-old Leonette Wishard, former director of the Student Center for the American Baptist Foreign Missions.
Bestselling author Prill Boyle spoke following the luncheon as part of Watermark's "Book and Author" series. Boyle read from and discussed her book, "Defying Gravity: A Celebration of Late Blooming Women," stressing the importance of acting on our dreams, whether we're 18 or 80.
The book recounts the stories of 12 "ordinary" women who have done extraordinary things later in life. A former teacher of writing and literature at Norwalk Community College, she wanted to present women who would serve as role models for her students, capturing the subjects' voices in a way that emphasized the power of their stories. Boyle spent two years interviewing women for the book, most of whom she heard of by word of mouth.
"As much as good nutrition and exercise keep us healthy, our dreams give us hope and keep us excited about getting up in the morning," she said. "Dreaming is, at its core, a wellness issue and when we act on our dreams, we inspire the people around us and give them hope."The Watermark at 3030 Park recently kicked off its fall Watermark University semester at the senior-living community located on the Bridgeport/Fairfield line. With a curriculum tailored specifically for seniors, Watermark University is a continuing education program designed with interesting topics and activities to keep minds and bodies fit.
"Watermark University is offering over 30 courses this fall, most of which are free and open to area seniors," said Shannon Ruedlinger, executive director of The Watermark at 3030 Park. "From music, art, and dance classes to international culture, computer technology and cooking, these courses allow seniors explore new hobbies and interests. We encourage our residents, family members and area residents to come and learn more about these great fall classes."
One offering through Watermark University is the intergenerational program with Classical Studies Academy, a K-6 school located in Bridgeport. The program provides both student and senior participants with the opportunity to interact with and learn from people from a completely different generation.
With a commitment to help seniors to stay fit, agile and smart, Watermark University offers senior-specific strength training and splash fitness courses with Cindy Fallon McGuire, The Watermark's fitness director. In addition to teaching exercise classes for over 25 years, Cindy is also an adjunct professor at Sacred Heart University with an extensive background in senior fitness and injury prevention.
Seniors from Greater Fairfield are encouraged to check out the wide range of fall courses available through Watermark University. From "Literature That Feeds Our Faith" with Fairfield's Reverend David Rowe, to "Wine Travel" with renowned wine expert Jon Haight, there many interesting courses for seniors and their families to discover.
For more information on Watermark University or to request your fall course catalog, please call The Watermark at 3030 Park at 203-374-5611.
Bridgeport, CT – October 12, 2009 – The Watermark at 3030 Park is pleased to announce the recent addition of Roger Sliby as Executive Director of the senior living community located on the Bridgeport/Fairfield line.
Sliby brings to The Watermark at 3030 Park more than 25 years experience in the healthcare field, including service at Greenwich Hospital and St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Bridgeport. While at St. Vincent’s Sliby held the positions of Director of Managed Care, Director of Budget and Reimbursement and Director of Finance. Since 2004, Sliby has served as the Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer for The Jewish Home for the Elderly in Fairfield, Connecticut.
“My vision for The Watermark at 3030 Park is to build on the outstanding foundation that was created by my predecessor, Shannon Ruedlinger, and his team. This is an incredibly vibrant community – both residents and associates. Together, we’ll create new and exciting programs and services for our seniors,” said Sliby. “I look forward to being part of a great team helping residents to thrive in mind and in body.”
Sliby will be succeeding Ruedlinger, who began as Executive Director of The Watermark at 3030 Park in 2007. Ruedlinger was responsible for a number of innovative initiatives at the continuing care retirement community, including forming key partnerships with St. Vincent’s Medical Center, The Jewish Home for the Elderly, Fairfield Theatre Company and ArtPlace Gallery of Fairfield. Ruedlinger also oversaw the successful completion of over $40 million in renovations and additions to the community, including The Watermark at 3030 Park’s state-of-the-art Senior Health and Wellness Center.
Sliby holds a BS in Accounting from the University of New Haven, is a licensed Nursing Home Administrator, and is former President of the Healthcare Financial Management Association’s Connecticut Chapter. He has also been part of a volunteer organization, The Walter Camp Football Foundation, located in New Haven, for the past 15 years and served as Treasurer of the organization for 10 years. Sliby lives in Orange, Connecticut with his wife and two daughters.Author of Defying Gravity guest speaker at event honoring
extraordinary senior women.
Bridgeport, CT (October 8, 2009) – The Watermark at 3030 Park recently presented best-selling author Prill Boyle as part of its “Book and Author” series. Boyle read from and discussed her book Defying Gravity: A Celebration of Late Blooming Women at the senior-living community located on the Bridgeport/Fairfield line.
Boyle’s book, Defying Gravity, recounts the stories of 12 “ordinary" women who have done extraordinary things later in life. Boyle herself is a late bloomer, having graduated from college at 38. A former teacher of writing and literature at Norwalk Community College, she wanted to present women who would serve as role models for her students, capturing the subjects’ voices in a way that emphasized the power of their stories. Boyle spent two years interviewing women for the book, most of whom she heard of by word of mouth.
For her lecture at The Watermark at 3030 Park, Boyle stressed the importance of acting on our dreams, whether we’re 18 or 80.
“As much as good nutrition and exercise keep us healthy, our dreams give us hope and keep us excited about getting up in the morning,” said Boyle. “Dreaming is, at its core, a wellness issue and when we act on our dreams, we inspire the people around us and give them hope.”
Prior to Boyle’s lecture, a luncheon was held to honor six residents from The Watermark at 3030 Park for living extraordinary lives. The residents honored were: Frances Barry, former Art Director for the Museum of Northern Arizona; Geraldyn “Gerry” Eckber, a former freelance writer and photojournalist; Geraldine Johnson, Bridgeport’s first female and African American principal and superintendent; Jan Park, founding member of the Bridgeport Child Advocacy Coalition; Mary Beth Stickley, Director of Early Childhood Bridgeport Board of Education and developer of the Classical Studies Academy; and 106 year-old Leonette Wishard, former Director of the Student Center for the American Baptist Foreign Missions.By DJ Sixsmith
After the death of his grandmother in 1997, Charlie Lillicraf looked to find a way to honor one of the most important figures in his life. He created the group "Remember Alzheimer's" to honor his grandmother's memory and raise awareness about Alzheimer's in Fairfield County.
Initially, Lillicraf took small steps by raising money at community gatherings as well as designing a leather bracelet based off of the idea created by LiveStrong. Ultimately, he launched his mission at last year's Alzheimer's National Memory Walk.
"By founding Remember Alzheimer's, I was able to learn more about the disease that was affecting my family so greatly," said Lillicraf, an Easton resident.
Lillicraf showed that he was immediately committed to the process as he raised close to $10,000 with his friends and family. His team, Remember Alzheimer's, was the leading team in the state of Connecticut. Impressed by his dedication and commitment to the cause, the Connecticut Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association asked Lillicraf and his close friend Brian Soohoo to co-chair a youth movement that would run during the school year and provide people from the community with education on Alzheimer's. Lillicraf could not have been more excited -- not only was he able to honor his grandma's memory, he could also give back to the community at the same time.
"I think it is very important to be involved in your community. I was so glad to be given the honor to lead this project," Lillicraf said.
Since the partnership with the Alzheimer's Association began in January, the group has grown to 19 members from the Fairfield County area. The Remember Alzheimer's movement has made major progress in its first year, as the Alzheimer's Association honored Lillicraf and Remember Alzheimer's as the number one non-corporate fund-raising team in the state. Regional Director Ana Nelson said she is blessed to have Lillicraf as well as the rest of his family on board in the effort to raise awareness.
"Charlie has been phenomenal and inspirational to the entire group. Most importantly, his family as a whole has been very instrumental and supportive of coming up with ideas to raise awareness," Nelson said.
The biggest event held to date for this group was the Alzheimer's Café, which took place two weeks ago at the Watermark Café at 3030 Park. The event enabled Alzheimer's patients and caretakers to gather together in a social setting. The purpose of the gathering was to raise further awareness about Alzheimer's as well as provide caretakers with useful tips about dealing with the disease on a daily basis. Shannon Ruedlinger, activity director at the Watermark, was stunned at the amount of effort put into the event by the young people and, in particular, Lillicraf's commitment.
"It was amazing to see so many kids trying to make a difference for those inflicted with Alzheimer's, especially Charlie, who was so passionate," Ruedlinger said.
The Watermark Café is a unique housing situation for those with the disease. It houses 14 residents, so caretakers and those with Alzheimer's are able to establish a personal relationship, which Nelson said helps immensely in facilitating the every day processes. Among the perks is that those living at the Watermark can ask for anything they would like to eat at any time during the day. Ruedlinger believes that the accommodation and personal relationships set the Watermark a part from any other living situation.
"It is very important to keep personal relationships and help in creating experiences that remind those inflicted of the past. Because we house only 14 residents, we at the Watermark get to know each person's needs, likes and dislikes, which makes the whole process much easier," she said.
Support to raise awareness about Alzheimer's has reached some in government, too. State Rep. Tony Hwang, R-134, was present at the Alzheimer's Café to honor Lillicraf for his efforts. Having worked so hard to raise awareness and form Remember Alzheimer's, Lillicraf said he was particularly happy to see Hwang present.
"Tony Hwang was very inspirational and allowed us to see how much progress we have made in such a short period of time. He is very supportive of our cause," Lillicraf said.
A father himself, Hwang will be the first to tell you how important he feels it is for kids to be involved in projects like this one.
"It is so important for us as state officials to recognize young people making a difference . . . I am impressed, motivated and energized to see kids in this day and age making a difference," said Hwang.
Heading off to Providence College this year, Lillicraf will now look to balance his schoolwork with the leadership of the group. However, wherever Charlie goes, he is determined to keep the goals of this mission a top priority.
"Our main goal when we started out was to spread awareness and get as many people involved in our youth movement as possible," he said. "We want to get as much information out about Alzheimer's as we can. This will allow people to understand the disease as more than just, 'They can't remember things.' "
The Alzheimer's Association will continue to support Remember Alzheimer's as they have already planned several presentations and support groups to promote awareness in the Fairfield Country area.
For more information about Remember Alzheimer's and the disease, visit www.alz.org/ct
ArtPlace poised to begin new chapter
By Phyllis A.S. Boros
staff writer
Updated: 09/04/2009 04:12:45 PM EDT
Perseverance pays off.
Just ask the members of the nonprofit ArtPlace, which lost its long-time gallery in the southbound Southport train station in a January 2008 fire.
The artists' cooperative -- each of the 29 members is responsible for the organization's growth and well-being -- has spent the past 20 months relying on the kindness of colleagues, presenting its shows as a guest at such venues as the Fairfield Arts Council gallery, the Carriage Barn in New Canaan, the Greenwich Arts Council gallery and the Housatonic Museum of Art in Bridgeport.
All the traveling comes to an end on Saturday, when the group reopens a gallery in its new home at 11 Unquowa Road, in the heart of downtown Fairfield.
Like a "phoenix rising from the ashes, that's us," says artist-member Dave Pressler, laughing.
The new gallery, in leased retail space a few doors from the Community Theatre, opens Saturday from 5 to 8 p.m. with a free reception that's open to the general public. This new chapter in ArtPlace history begins with an exhibition that features the work of all 29 members, the majority of whom live in Connecticut and Westchester County.
"We are really excited to be a part of the community, with the Fairfield Library and the Fairfield Arts Council as neighbors, a commercial location and great exposure," say Cecilia Moy Fradet, of Weston, and Lori Glavin, of Darien, co-chairs of the grand opening celebration.
The exhibition, they say, is aptly named "Odyssey," reflecting the journey ArtPlace has taken from its former Southport home to its present space, as well as the artistic journeys of its members as they developed new works.
On view in "Odyssey" will be representational and abstract works in a variety of media, including painting, drawing, printmaking, encaustic, collage, digital imagery, fiber and sculpture. The show runs through Sept. 27.
In addition to Pressler, Fradet and Glavin, other noted participating artists include Elisa Khachian, Mary Jo McGonagle, Susan Newbold, ArtPlace co-president, and Diane Pollack, all of Fairfield; Florence Zolan of Bridgeport; Barbara Harden of New Haven, ArtPlace co-president; Margot Bittenbender of Greenwich; and Sandy Meagher of the Rowayton section of Norwalk, chair of the "Odyssey" exhibition.
A second event, "Meet the Artists," which also is free and open to the general public, is scheduled for Sept. 25 from 6 to 8 p.m.
A former Fairfielder who now lives in Shelton, Pressler also points out that ArtPlace is concurrently opening an adjunct gallery, ArtPlace @ The Watermark, a residential community for senior citizens, at 3030 Park Ave. in Bridgeport.
Pressler, a frequent ArtPlace spokesman, says the group has been invited by The Watermark to present exhibitions and programs in a beautifully renovated space. It's an opportunity to fulfill its mandate as a nonprofit organization to offer educational programs and services for the community, he says. On the second Wednesday of each month, ArtPlace members will present lecture receptions for the residents, their families and artists. Similar programs for the general public also will be presented at The Watermark, on a soon-to-be-announced schedule, Pressler adds.
Founded in January, 1982; ArtPlace from its very beginning had operated out of the Southport Train Station, subletting space from the Town of Fairfield's Parking Authority, which in turn leases the building from the state Department of Transportation. A rebuilt Southport Train Station was completed earlier this year, designed to reflect its original 1880s architecture, Pressler explains. Although ArtPlace had initially hoped to return to its former space, the renovation work included such touches as chair rails and wainscoting, details that made the space inappropriate for the hanging of art, he adds. When it became apparent that they would not be able to return to Southport, a search began for new gallery space. The new gallery is in space formerly occupied by Ulla Surland's Gallery Eleven.
Pressler says that ArtPlace members are excited and pleased by these new developments.
Members, he says, are so determined in fact to embark on this new chapter that they have "embraced a greater financial burden," with their monthly dues "having doubled" in order to rent the Fairfield gallery.
"We're starting to feel a new energy and I think we will realize it in the coming months. Our goal is to stay in Fairfield and to encourage the arts in the Greater Bridgeport area. We want to make this work, we will make this work for the artists and the community at large."
ArtPlace, at 11 Unquowa Road in downtown Fairfield, is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. For additional information, visit 203-292-8328 or visit www.artplace.org
The Watermark at 3030 Park and The Jewish Home for the Elderly announce joint initiative
BRIDGEPORT - The Watermark at 3030 Park in Bridgeport and The Jewish Home for the Elderly of Fairfield are pleased to announce a joint effort designed to enhance services and provide substantial benefits for residents and clients at both locations.
Under this new collaboration, Dr. William Covey and Dr. Kenneth Fine of The Jewish Home will provide physician oversight and administrative and nursing assistance to The Watermark at 3030 Park, as well as physical therapy services to The Watermark's newly re-opened Health Care Center.
The Watermark at 3030 Park will in turn provide consulting support to The Jewish Home for the Elderly as their community develops new independent and assisted living services.
Additionally, long term care residents of The Jewish Home for the Elderly will be able to take advantage of offerings from The Club, The Watermark's 20,000 square foot senior wellness center that features a fitness center, heated indoor swimming pool, salon and day spa and café.
"The Watermark at 3030 Park and The Jewish Home for the Elderly each share a passion for providing the highest levels of care and service," said Shannon Ruedlinger, executive director at The Watermark. "Our central common value lies in ensuring that our residents and clients lead healthy, fulfilling lives. This partnership celebrates that value and enables us to provide the highest levels of care for seniors."
For over thirty years, both The Watermark and The Jewish Home have played an important role in senior living in the Bridgeport and Fairfield areas, serving residents, clients, and families. Following the revival of the community at 3030 Park by Watermark Retirement Communities in 2006, Mr. Ruedlinger began working with The Jewish Home for the Elderly to build a partnership benefiting both communities.
'Remember Alzheimer's' raising awareness
By DJ Sixsmith
After the death of his grandmother in 1997, Charlie Lillicraf looked to find a way to honor one of the most important figures in his life. He created the group "Remember Alzheimer's" to honor his grandmother's memory and raise awareness about Alzheimer's in Fairfield County.
Initially, Lillicraf took small steps by raising money at community gatherings as well as designing a leather bracelet based off of the idea created by LiveStrong. Ultimately, he launched his mission at last year's Alzheimer's National Memory Walk.
"By founding Remember Alzheimer's, I was able to learn more about the disease that was affecting my family so greatly," said Lillicraf, an Easton resident.
Lillicraf showed that he was immediately committed to the process as he raised close to $10,000 with his friends and family. His team, Remember Alzheimer's, was the leading team in the state of Connecticut. Impressed by his dedication and commitment to the cause, the Connecticut Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association asked Lillicraf and his close friend Brian Soohoo to co-chair a youth movement that would run during the school year and provide people from the community with education on Alzheimer's. Lillicraf could not have been more excited -- not only was he able to honor his grandma's memory, he could also give back to the community at the same time.
"I think it is very important to be involved in your community. I was so glad to be given the honor to lead this project," Lillicraf said.
Since the partnership with the Alzheimer's Association began in January, the group has grown to 19 members from the Fairfield County area. The Remember Alzheimer's movement has made major progress in its first year, as the Alzheimer's Association honored Lillicraf and Remember Alzheimer's as the number one non-corporate fund-raising team in the state. Regional Director Ana Nelson said she is blessed to have Lillicraf as well as the rest of his family on board in the effort to raise awareness.
"Charlie has been phenomenal and inspirational to the entire group. Most importantly, his family as a whole has been very instrumental and supportive of coming up with ideas to raise awareness," Nelson said.
The biggest event held to date for this group was the Alzheimer's Café, which took place two weeks ago at the Watermark Café at 3030 Park. The event enabled Alzheimer's patients and caretakers to gather together in a social setting. The purpose of the gathering was to raise further awareness about Alzheimer's as well as provide caretakers with useful tips about dealing with the disease on a daily basis. Shannon Ruedlinger, activity director at the Watermark, was stunned at the amount of effort put into the event by the young people and, in particular, Lillicraf's commitment.
"It was amazing to see so many kids trying to make a difference for those inflicted with Alzheimer's, especially Charlie, who was so passionate," Ruedlinger said.
The Watermark Café is a unique housing situation for those with the disease. It houses 14 residents, so caretakers and those with Alzheimer's are able to establish a personal relationship, which Nelson said helps immensely in facilitating the every day processes. Among the perks is that those living at the Watermark can ask for anything they would like to eat at any time during the day. Ruedlinger believes that the accommodation and personal relationships set the Watermark a part from any other living situation.
"It is very important to keep personal relationships and help in creating experiences that remind those inflicted of the past. Because we house only 14 residents, we at the Watermark get to know each person's needs, likes and dislikes, which makes the whole process much easier," she said.
Support to raise awareness about Alzheimer's has reached some in government, too. State Rep. Tony Hwang, R-134, was present at the Alzheimer's Café to honor Lillicraf for his efforts. Having worked so hard to raise awareness and form Remember Alzheimer's, Lillicraf said he was particularly happy to see Hwang present.
"Tony Hwang was very inspirational and allowed us to see how much progress we have made in such a short period of time. He is very supportive of our cause," Lillicraf said.
A father himself, Hwang will be the first to tell you how important he feels it is for kids to be involved in projects like this one.
"It is so important for us as state officials to recognize young people making a difference . . . I am impressed, motivated and energized to see kids in this day and age making a difference," said Hwang.
Heading off to Providence College this year, Lillicraf will now look to balance his schoolwork with the leadership of the group. However, wherever Charlie goes, he is determined to keep the goals of this mission a top priority.
"Our main goal when we started out was to spread awareness and get as many people involved in our youth movement as possible," he said. "We want to get as much information out about Alzheimer's as we can. This will allow people to understand the disease as more than just, 'They can't remember things.' "
The Alzheimer's Association will continue to support Remember Alzheimer's as they have already planned several presentations and support groups to promote awareness in the Fairfield Country area.
For more information about Remember Alzheimer's and the disease, visit www.alz.org/ct
Fairfield Theatre Company partners with Watermark
By Elizabeth Keyser
Posted: 08/07/2009 01:00:54 AM EDT
Musicians and performers, with their air of eternal youth, don't seem destined for retirement, let alone retirement homes. But performers at the Fairfield Theatre Company stay overnight at the Watermark Retirement Community at 3030 Park Ave. in Bridgeport.
Sounds strange? It doesn't seem strange once you see the accommodations at the Watermark.
The one-bedroom apartment and the two-bedroom/two-bath apartments where the performers stay are spanking new, and decorated in a comfortable, upscale contemporary style. Each apartment has a full kitchen, and the Watermark stocks the refrigerator with the performer's preference of snacks and beverages.
"We try to spoil them rotten," says Shannon Ruedlinger, the executive director of the Watermark.
The performers also have access to all the amenities of the Watermark's 14-acre campus, which has undergone a $40 million renovation. That includes the Aveda salon, workout room, heated pool and solarium, café, dining room and in-house branch of People's Bank.
And there's plenty of room for bands to park their tour buses. (Some groups, like Boyz to Men, prefer to sleep on their tour bus.)
The Watermark is also providing the performers with food at FTC's shows at Stage One on Stanford Street in Fairfield and at the Klein Auditorium in Bridgeport.
This is saving the nonprofit cultural arts organization about $500 per show. When you consider that FTC does about 200 shows a year, that's a big help for an organization that has struggled during flush economic times, let alone in the current recession.
In return for the food and accommodations, FTC recognizes The Watermark from the stage before each show, and acknowledges the Watermark on show programs and on FTC's Web site.
"I'm a huge fan of the arts," says Ruedlinger, in describing how he got the idea for the partnership. He was speaking to the FTC's marketing director about arranging to take 20 residents to a Smothers Brothers show when he started to wonder how the Watermark could help the cultural institution.
When Watermark Retirement Communities, which is based in Tucson, Ariz., and has retirement communities in Massachusetts, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware and Arizona, bought 3030 Park Ave. in 2006, it wanted to become part of the Fairfield County community.
"In the old days, the gates were closed," Ruedlinger says, "We are embracing the community."
GE retirees hold their meetings at the Watermark, and a partnership with Bridgeport public schools brings residents to the schools to tutor, and students to the Watermark. The Watermark also hosts speakers.
"I salute this group," says Eileen O'Reilly, FTC's managing director. "They are a lot of fun." O'Reilly says the performers have "really enjoyed" staying at the Watermark.
Johnny A., a guitarist who stayed at 3030 Park is a fan. "Totally pleasurable experience," he wrote by e-mail, "Great alternative to the traditional hotel. Very clean and easy access."
"The food is good, it's a real variety," adds O'Reilly.
Ruedlinger, who has been with Watermark Retirement Communities for 13 years, moved to Fairfield from Kansas City.
Giving a tour of the accommodations and amenities, he notes how quiet 3030 Park is. It was built in 1968 of poured concrete. The high-rise apartment windows give views of Long Island Sound, the Brooklawn Country Club, and closer, 3030 Park's tree-filled grounds and the residents' vegetable garden.
"It's a rural setting in an urban environment," he says.
As Ruedlinger greets cheerful residents by name, preconceptions of a retirement home as depressing are blown away.
The final stop on his tour is the 250-seat auditorium. Where, someday, he hopes, an FTC performer will play for the Watermark's community.
The Watermark Retirement Communities Receive Medicare Certification
Watermark Retirement Communities' two Connecticut locations have received Medicare certification by the state. The Watermark at 3030 Park in Bridgeport and The Watermark at East Hill in Southbury now officially accept Medicare patients, allowing seniors in the area to utilize the skilled nursing and rehabilitation services offered by both communities.
Staffed 24 hours a day and using the latest technology, The Watermark ensures the highest quality and personalized attention for patients. Rehabilitation or a short stay at The Watermark includes three made-to-order meals per day with diet advice from a registered dietician. Additionally, a recreational therapist and resident life director is also on hand to ensure that short-term patients and residents stay active and enjoy their time at the community.
Get Involved, Get an Education
Fairfield Citizen Staff
Posted: 04/17/2009
On Wednesday, we explained the origins of Earth Day, April 22, and the importance of protecting and improving our environment. We implored readers to celebrate Earth Day all year round.
In continuing that theme, we are prepared to provide readers with a few suggestions on how they can help right here in their community as well as in their homes.
But first a quick recap: Thirty-nine years ago, nearly 20 million people participated in the grass-roots effort called Earth Day, which was founded by former U.S. Sen. Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin. Through his movement, he hoped to draw attention to environmental issues and add them to the political agenda. A lot of worthwhile, important measures and legislations have emerged from those first efforts, among them the Clean Water Act and the Safe Drinking Water Act.
As the years progressed, people became even more aware of our fragile environment, and the informal (and derogatory) moniker of "tree hugger" suddenly because a badge of honor.
In Wednesday's editorial, we wrote: "Now, Earth Day takes on a whole new meaning. It's no longer about what the government can do to help the environment, but what we as a society can do to protect our natural resources." So toward that end, our message today is simple: Get an education and/or help out by participating in some kind of environment-based activity. We have some suggestions.
First, we all can help the environment, protect natural resources for future generations and save some money by assessing our homes (and offices) for energy efficiency. To start, visit the various utility companies' Web sites for useful information and tips. Those sites are www.uinet.com, www.cl-p.com, www.soconngas.com.
Next, try visiting www.fairfieldct.org/towngreen.htm, on which residents will find a wealth of information about Fairfield Town Green, a nonpartisan coalition of residents, organizations and town officials "committed to motivating, facilitating and communicating impactful, local acts of stewardship in order to preserve, protect and promote the environmental viability of the town of Fairfield and encourage clean energy and environmentally responsible lifestyles. The goal is to raise awareness of environmental issues such as global climate shifts as related to everyday lifestyle and habits, and to provide meaningful opportunities for individuals, businesses, schools and government to actively affect change." Several links are provided on the Web page to further residents' knowledge and participation, Additionally, visitors will find a litany of what has been accomplished thus far in and for the community.
A number of activities or lectures will be taking place over the next week or so that residents might be interested in attending:
"U.S. Rep. Jim Himes, D-4, will participate in a discussion on energy and environment from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday at Greenfield Hill Congregational Church. The town hall-style meeting will include Roger Smith, executive director of Clean Water Action; Richard Johnson, president of the Fairfield Prep Political Awareness Club; and Kathleen Casey, president of the Fairfield Ludlowe Democrats.
"Fairfield University will host "More Green Cleaners Party," a free event to educate the public on why it's a healthy and smart move to whip up eco-friendly homemade cleansers using benign components, such as olive oil and castile soap. The event will take place from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. April 21 in Bannow 319 on the university campus. To reserve a spot, contact msregan@mail.fairfield.edu.
"The Sacred Heart University Marketing Club is hosting an Earth Day celebration from 11:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. April 22. There will be a number of demonstrations, and one of the highlights will be the planting of the "Giving Tree" in the garden outside of Seton and Merton halls.
"The Watermark at 3030 Park is hosting Tisha Ferguson, director of outreach at Connecticut Fund for the Environment, who will lecture on the need for clean water in Bridgeport and Long Island Sound, storm water, legislative help given to older cities regarding watershed lands and the protection of river banks. The lecture will take place from 2 to 3 p.m. April 22 in the auditorium. To reserve a seat, call 374-5611.
"The Fairfield and Sasqua Garden Clubs are sponsoring the symposium "Going Green in Your Own Back Yard" at 7 p.m. April 22 at the Southport Congregational Church. The event will feature Jay Feldman of Beyond Pesticides and Chip Osborne of Osborne Organics. For information, call Alice Cooke at 847-7109 or Courtenay Hardy at 259-7865.
"Ecologist and economist Robert Constanza, Ph.D., will deliver Fairfield University's Earth Day lecture on April 23 at 6:30 p.m. in the Kelley Center.
"The Sasquanaug Association for Southport Improvement will conduct its annual cleanup of Southport Village on April 25 starting at 10 a.m. at the entrance of Southport Park.
And finally, the town of Fairfield's annual Earth Day celebration will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 9 at Fairfield Warde High School. The event is still being organized but it will include a number of exhibitors as well as demonstrations and entertainment. One of the highlights is the Connecticut Resources Recovery Authority's residential electronics collection, which will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. More information on the town's annual event will be published in the Fairfield Citizen in the next few weeks. Residents can visit www.fairfieldearthday.wordpress.com for more information.
Until then, residents have plenty of opportunities to get an education about the environment and start helping to preserve it.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Patrick McGloin
on behalf of The Watermark at East Hill
860-841-3921
pmcgloin@gbpr.com
The Watermark at 3030 Park Hosts
Earth Day Event
Guest speaker Tisha Ferguson, Director of Outreach at Connecticut Fund for the Environment, to lecture on Bridgeport and Long Island Sound
Bridgeport, CT – April 13, 2009 – In celebration of Earth Day on Wednesday, April 22, The Watermark at 3030 Park will host a lecture featuring guest speaker Tisha Ferguson, Director of Outreach at Connecticut Fund for the Environment (CFE). The free lecture is open to the public and will be held in the Auditorium from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. Light refreshments will also be served.
After many years of volunteer service to conservation and environmental groups, Tisha joined the Connecticut Fund for the Environment, an organization committed to protecting and improving the air, land and water of Connecticut and Long Island Sound since 1978.
During her April 22 lecture at The Watermark, Tisha will discuss several topics including the need for clean water in Bridgeport and Long Island Sound, storm water, and legislative help given to older cities like Norwalk, Bridgeport and Trumbull regarding watershed lands and protection of river banks.
For more information, or if you would like to attend Tisha Ferguson’s Earth Day lecture at The Watermark at 3030 Park, please call Ann Marie Fekete at 203-374-5611.
About The Watermark at 3030 Park:
The Watermark at 3030 Park, located at 3030 Park Avenue on the Bridgeport/Fairfield line in Connecticut, is a distinctive community for adults 65 and older, offering exceptional independent living, assisted living, skilled rehabilitation and memory care. The Watermark at 3030 Park is professionally managed by Watermark Retirement Communities, a company committed to creating communities full of spirit, character, integrity, creativity, compassion and adventure – where everyone is encouraged to express their true selves. Watermark communities are located in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Arizona. For more information, please visit www.watermarkcommunities.com/3030park.
Watermark at 3030 Park, Jewish Home to Provide Services to Each Other
Bridgeport News
Friday, March 06, 2009
The Watermark at 3030 Park and the Jewish Home for the Elderly have reached an agreement designed to enhance services and provide benefits for residents and clients at both facilities.
Under the collaboration, Dr. William Covey and Dr. Kenneth Fine of the Jewish Home will provide expert physician oversight to the Watermark at 3030 Park. The Jewish Home also will offer administrative and nursing assistance and physical therapy services at 3030 Park’s newly re-opened health-care center.
The Watermark at 3030 Park retirement facility, in turn, will provide consulting support to the Jewish Home as it develops new independent and assisted living services in the future. Additionally, long-term care residents of the Jewish Home will be able to use The Club, the Watermark’s 20,000-square-foot senior wellness center that has a fitness center, indoor swimming pool, salon and day spa, and café.
Shannon Ruedlinger, Watermark executive director, said the agreement will benefit both organizations. “Our central common value lies in ensuring that our residents and clients lead healthy, fulfilling lives,” Ruedlinger said. “This partnership celebrates that value and enables us to provide the highest levels of care for seniors.”
Andrew H. Banoff, Jewish Home for the Elderly president and CEO, agreed. “Not only will residents benefit but this unique partnership promises to add value to the communities of Bridgeport and Fairfield overall,” Banoff said.
Bridgeport News (CT)
December 18, 2008
Section: News
Page: 1A, 9A
Public gets first look at new 3030 Park
Brad Durrell; Editor
John Dos Passos, a retired engineer, was running on a treadmill at the Watermark at 3030 Park. He moved into the retirement community in Bridgeport's North End in August, a month after retiring at age 82.
"I like the food, the accommodations, the safety systems and the employees, many of whom have been here 20 years," Dos Passos said. "Above all else, though, I like the fitness center."
He previously lived in upstate New York and Florida and had spent more than a dozen years working in Saudi Arabia, but wanted to move to Fairfield County to be close to a daughter in Weston.
"I designed and inspected buildings like this," said Dos Passos, still running on the exercise machine. "This is a premier example of how these places should be built."
After $40 million in renovations, the owners of the Watermark at 3030 Park held an open house last weekend to show off the place.
Visitors were able to see improvements made throughout the high-rise structure on upper Park Avenue, as well as the renovated health center building next door and the 14 new cottages being built on the 14.7-acre property.
"This has been a major transformation," said Shannon Ruedlinger, executive director.
The facility opened in 1968 as the first retirement community of its kind in New England. "It started a whole movement," Ruedlinger said.
It went through some tough times less than a decade ago, eventually going into state receivership, but then was bought in 2006 by Watermark Retirement Communities, a well-established company with facilities in Massachusetts, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware and Arizona.
The company, also known as the Freshwater Group, owns and operates another Connecticut retirement community in Southbury.
Two years of renovations
Watermark made the improvements to 3030 Park after receiving a tax break from the city and, through a unique state program, being able to sell bonds through the city at a reduced rate. Construction started in
2007 and is almost done except for the cottages, which offer independent living with access to group facilities and services a few hundred feet away.
City Council President Thomas C. McCarthy, a frequent visitor to 3030 Park, said the facility is a plus for the city and the neighborhood he represents.
"One of the selling points with the package the council approved a few years ago was that they said they were committed to getting involved in the community," McCarthy said. "And they really have been."
Residents and staff have formed a particularly close relationship with Classical Studies Academy, a public school in Bridgeport. Students regularly visit 3030 Park to learn about jazz, cooking, crochet and other subjects, and 3030 Park residents go to the school to tutor, mentor, and read books to students.
Many 3030 Park residents come from the surrounding suburbs, with prices for residential units starting in the high $100,000s and going much higher for larger units with better views of Long Island Sound.
There also are monthly fees that cover food and other services, and an owner doesn't receive the entire purchase price when a unit is resold. Residents of the health center only will be charged monthly fees.
One of the Watermark at 3030 Park's strengths is its many longtime employees, according to Ruedlinger. The average tenure is 15 years, and some have been there for 35 years. "That's almost unheard of in this business," he said.
The facility now has 110 full-and part-time employees, and should add about 50 more when the health center opens soon.
Fewer, larger units
The renovation of the main building involved turning 330 studio apartments into 180 oneand two-bedroom residential units. The lower level now has the health club, a heated indoor pool that offers views of the surrounding area, an Aveda salon and day spa, and a café with a fireplace. The club, pool, salon/spa and café are open to the public.
An auxiliary building has been turned into the health center, with residences that offer assisting living, skilled nursing and memory care (dementia) services. Residents will be able to bring their own furniture and other belongings to avoid an institutional atmosphere, Ruedlinger said.
The auxiliary building had been mothballed in 2002. Watermark expects to receive a certificate of occupancy so people can move into this part of the complex early next year. "Everything is brand new in this building," Ruedlinger said.
Nora Vayser of Fairfield was impressed with the tour of the renovated facility. "I thought it was excellent," Vayser said. "I want to join the fitness club. The pool is heated to 86 degrees, and you can join by the month. It's impressive. This adds a lot to the greater Bridgeport community."
Vayser, who is widowed, said she might consider moving to 3030 Park but would first have to sell her home. That would be a challenge in today's real estate market, she said.
She was enjoying coffee and scones in the main dining room with two friends, Pauline Daigle and Rose Pereiro, both of whom live nearby in the North End and toured 3030 Park with Vayser. "They did a beautiful job, especially with the health center," Pereiro said.
Dos Passos, the resident and retired engineer, said he's been impressed with the artwork found throughout 3030 Park's public areas. He is a bit of an artist himself. "I like to paint," he said, finally finishing his late morning workout.
A view of the newly renovated Watermark at 3030 Park from the outside, left, and a display case to be kept near a dementia patient's room in the new health center.
Copyright 2008, Hersam Acorn Newspapers, All Rights Reserved
Bridgeport News (CT)
November 6, 2008
Section: News
Page: 1A, 6A
Memo: "I want you to know all of us who stand on your shoulders appreciate you very much."
School Supt. John Ramos
Brad Durrell; Editor
The first time Marlene Roberts met city School Supt. Geraldine W. Johnson, she was walking up the steps of City Hall 33 years ago to sign her initial contract to become a Bridgeport teacher. A friend pointed out who Johnson was, and they were introduced.
"A new teacher?" an enthusiastic Johnson said upon meeting Roberts. "I love new teachers. They bring new ideas to the classroom."
Roberts now is in her first year as principal of the new Geraldine Johnson School off North Avenue. She spoke about the experience of first meeting Johnson, the city's first female and first African-American top school administrator, at a ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony at the new 105,000-square-foot facility Sunday.
"It was a warm and sincere welcome," Roberts said of the chance encounter many years ago with Johnson, now 89, and still a Bridgeport resident. "Mrs. Johnson's handshake has left a lifelong impression on me."
The new school serves 750 students in pre-kindergarten to eighth grade. It replaces nearby Webster School, and serves students who previously attended other schools as well. Johnson School is the fifth new school to open in Bridgeport in the past 18 months.
The event to honor Johnson included remarks, student musical performances, poetry readings, and opening and closing prayers. Four students read a poem written for Johnson titled, "A Great Woman is She." Soloist Reginald Roberts performed at Johnson's request.
Johnson still volunteers in the school system at Classical Studies Academy through the Watermark at 3030 Park, the North End retirement community where she lives.
Current School Supt. John J. Ramos Sr. called Johnson a trail-blazer who has left "a legacy for all of us to model, including children.
"I want you to know all of us who stand on your shoulders appreciate you very much," Ramos said.
Serving the community
Johnson said she was "overwhelmed" by the ceremony and by having the school named after her. She stressed that a school's impact isn't determined by its infrastructure - no matter how new or impressive - but by its teachers, students, parents and community.
Today's youngsters must acquire the skills and knowledge to successfully compete in the modern economy," she said. "I know this can be a lighthouse in this community, with its doors open to all."
School board President Maximino Medina Jr. praised Johnson for her "dignity, intelligence, integrity and class." He said he's not surprised she still can be found working with students. "She has never stopped caring," Medina said.
City Council President Thomas C, McCarthy, who represents the district where Johnson lives, echoed that thought. "She decided to get more involved despite being at the age of retirement and relaxation," McCarthy said.
State Sen. Edwin A. Gomes called Johnson a mentor and a person worthy of having a school named after her. He said he's pleased a Bridgeport school's name recognizes a local person of accomplishment rather than a national or international figure. Johnson was born, raised and educated in Bridgeport.
Johnson grew up in the East End, often walking to the downtown library to study with other family members. She also was a teacher, principal and assistant superintendent during her 37-year education career.
Johnson was the city's first female and black school principal. She later served as interim school superintendent in Fairfield.
She was superintendent from 1976 to 1981, a turbulent time in the city school system. The time period included a prolonged teachers' strike, a desegregation lawsuit and confrontations with then-Mayor John Mandanici over adequate funding.
Speakers pointed out Johnson also was a cellist in the Greater Bridgeport Symphony for 10 years. "You're a renaissance woman," Mayor Bill Finch said.
"Respect and admiration"
Finch said Johnson was well respected for her accomplishments. "There are not many people in urban American education who command the respect and admiration that Geri - Dr. Johnson - does," Finch said
Finch said his older sons benefited from Johnson's vision by attending a magnet school, High Horizons, she pushed to start. "So many of us benefited from you," he said.
He said Johnson was known for building up school libraries and supporting teacher's aides. "She would demand respect from the teachers and results in the classroom," Finch said.
School board Vice President Barbara P. Bellinger said she first met Johnson when she had concerns about safety at her children's bus stop a few decades ago. "I found her to be a person with a listening ear and empathy for parents," Bellinger said.
Bellinger said Johnson always has been an advocate for children. "She's a living testimony to the excellence in education I know we will have at this school," she said.
Johnson School eighth-grader Sandra Martinez said she loves the new school. She previously went to Blackham. "There are so many more teachers here," Sandra said.
Fifth-grader Anjelique Negron, who had gone to Maplewood Annex, called the new school "clean and very organized."
Roberts, the principal, said Johnson loves to visit the school named after her, where students often are in "awe" of her presence. Roberts said Johnson always asks students if they are doing their homework.
Old photos and newspapers about Johnson's career hang on a wall near the main school entrance.
Geraldine W. Johnson School Principal Marlene Roberts
Copyright 2008, Hersam Acorn Newspapers, All Rights Reserved
Bridgeport News (CT)
September 25, 2008
Section: News
Page: 6A
Watermark at 3030 Park upgrades
The Watermark at 3030 Park has completed a $2 million, 20,000 square-foot expansion called The Club, built with ecologically sustainable materials. The expansion at the North End retirement community includes a fitness club, salon and spa, wellness center, restaurant and bank.
The fitness club, built specifically for seniors and called Vitality, has strength and cardiovascular equipment. Classes offered will include Pilates, yoga, qigong, and water aerobics in the heated indoor pool. A personal trainer is available.
The first-ever collaboration between an Aveda salon and a retirement community has led to Indulge, the salon and spa. Services include massages, facials, and treatments for the hair, nails and body.
Renew, the wellness center, has experts to provide advice on nutrition, exercise programs, and massages and spa treatments. The center will host talks on topics such as medication interaction, exercise and diet.
The Gallery Café serves coffee, scones, pastries, soups, salads, hot entrees and handmade panini, all in eco-friendly packaging.
Renovations have been completed in the facility's auditorium, which hosts the Watermark's Meet the Author series. It's also been used for meetings and other events by schools, organizations and hospitals.
The People's United Bank branch enables Watermark residents and employees to handle banking matters onsite.
Watermark residents automatically are members of The Club, and memberships are available to non-residents age 50 and older. Charter memberships cost $49.95 per month, providing access to the fitness center, pool, and fitness and aquatic classes, as well as a 20-percent discount at the spa and restaurant. For information go to watermarkcommunities.com.
Copyright 2008, Hersam Acorn Newspapers, All Rights Reserved
Bridgeport News (CT)
June 26, 2008
Section: News
Page: 3
School volunteers receive thanks for efforts
The School Volunteer Association (SVA) of Bridgeport recently sponsored a reception and program to thank volunteers for their dedication to Bridgeport's public school students. The program at the Watermark restaurant, 3030 Park Ave., attended by various local public officials, was the final event in the SVA's 40th anniversary celebration.
Anne Gribbon, Bridgeport coordinator of volunteer services, told volunteers they have had a positive effect on many city school children.
Her comment was echoed by SVA President Bernadette Baldino. "It is our belief that everyone who shares the joy of reading, tutors, mentors or works as a volunteer with the students in the Bridgeport schools, makes an outstanding contribution to the quality of their lives and educational experience," Baldino said.
Mayor Bill Finch applauded the volunteers, telling them they are people who really care and are adept at looking at the glass half full rather than half empty.
Keynote speaker Robert Francis, Regional Youth Adult Substance Abuse Project executive director, talked about celebrating the strengths of community and children in his talk, "Youth and Adults' Assets: Working Together to Make a Healthy Community."
Baldino said SVA volunteers provide hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of services to benefit Bridgeport children.
She said the value for a volunteer in Connecticut is a reported $25.75 an hour, and 550 SVA readers gave 13,800 hours valued at $355,504; 140 SVA tutors gave 8,960 hours worth $230,720, and 130 SVA mentors contributed 5,200 hours valued at $133,900.
Additional SVA volunteers work in other capacities with students and at special events such as the association's annual, citywide Read Aloud Day in October.
The SVA was established in 1967 and is one of the first volunteer organizations of its kind in the nation. The non-profit agency's mission is to enrich and support the learning of Bridgeport's public school students through the involvement of trained volunteers from Bridgeport and surrounding towns. To volunteer call 576-7808.
Helen B. Wasserman, left, and Geraldine Johnson at the School Volunteer Association's 40th anniversary volunteer recognition ceremony. Wasserman has served on SVA's executive board for 40 years, and Johnson is a former city school superintendent and current volunteer.
Copyright 2008, Hersam Acorn Newspapers, All Rights Reserved
Bridgeport News (CT)
June 12, 2008
Section: News
Page: 1, 14
Memo: Larry Locke debuts Fabrizi film.
New North End school gets a name
Former School Supt. Geraldine Johnson to be recognized
The new school nearing completion in the lower North End will be named after the city's first female and African-American school superintendent, Geraldine Johnson. "It's a great honor and privilege," said Johnson, a product of the city's school system who later was school superintendent for a year in Fairfield.
She has been observing the new school being built between North and Chestnut streets, with no inclination it would someday be named in her honor.
"I've driven around the school," she said. "It's very large. I've kind of watched the structure go up and never dreamed it would be named after me."
Johnson oversaw the Bridgeport system from 1976 to 1981, a period that included a 19-day teachers' strike in 1978 that sent shock waves throughout the state's educational and political establishment. Close to 300 teachers were jailed during the salary contract dispute.
School board President Maximino Medina Jr. said Johnson deserves to have a school named after her.
"Mrs. Johnson is one of the pillars of our community," Medina said. "She served our children and school district with distinction for many years. She's a wonderful role model."
Medina said he's also admired how Johnson has remained involved in young people's lives in her retirement, as a volunteer. "She's continued giving back to our community," he said.
Johnson said she's optimistic the new school being named after her will open in the fall, despite current budget problems that have led to talk of possibly not opening all of the three new schools or closing several small schools this fall.
"There's always been problems with the budget," she said, noting it's hard to balance the goals of meeting children's needs, offering innovative programs and paying employees fair wages with the city's limited financial resources.
Johnson School will replace nearby Webster School on North Avenue. The new name was chosen by the city Board of Education. The 105,000-square-foot facility will serve 750 students in kindergarten to eighth grade.
A passion for teaching
Johnson, 89, grew up in the city's East End and attended McKinley School before graduating from Harding High in 1936.
She earned a bachelor's degree at New Haven Teachers College, a master's degree at New York University and a sixth-year teaching certificate at the University of Bridgeport.
Her maiden name is Farrar, and her mother Alice lived to be 108. Alice Farrar was a beautician and church organist, and Johnson's father was a power engineer at Bridgeport Brass.
Johnson said the East End was a wonderful place to grow up at the time. "Stratford Avenue had lovely stores, two theaters, trees and fruit stands," she said, recalling how she often would roller-skate to the neighborhood library to take out books.
She always knew what she wanted to be when growing up. "We would play school, and guess who always wanted to be a teacher?" Johnson said. "I guess it's in my blood.
Johnson's aunt, Lillian Whiting Hamilton, became the city's first black teacher in 1920. The school board also had considered naming the new school after Hamilton.
Johnson's family also has been active in politics. Her sister, Laurayne Farrar-James, was a City Council member from the East End, and Johnson's daughter, Adrienne Farrar Houle, unsuccessfully sought the Republican nomination for mayor in 2003 and now is involved in education, social service and political activities.
Johnson served as a teacher, principal and administrator in the school system before becoming superintendent. Her first job as a principal was in 1961, when her high score on a civil service test qualified her for the job. Her first job as an administrator was directing federal programs designed to help poor children to do better.
"We had some wonderful programs back then to enhance reading and involve parents," she said. "We also started school libraries and expanded school health clinics."
'Mutually enriching'
For more than five years, Johnson has lived at the Watermark at 3030 Park retirement community, where she has remained active by volunteering. She previously had lived in Lake Forest for many years.
She and other 3030 Park residents work closely with students at Classical Studies Academy, formerly Maplewood School, where Johnson once taught.
"The kids are excited about being taught by older people, and the older people like being around young people," she said. "It's mutually enriching."
Johnson's accomplishments have been recognized before. She has received honorary doctorate degrees in education from Fairfield University, Sacred Heart University and the University of Bridgeport.
She also was included on a list of the 100 most distinguished women in Connecticut by then-Gov. Ella Grasso's office in the late 1970s.
Other recent Bridgeport schools have been named after Jettie S. Tisdale, a longtime city teacher and principal who died in 2004, and Cesar A. Batalla, a Puerto Rican community activist who pushed for education equality. The new Barnum and Waltersville schools will keep their names, but the new South End school also will have to be named.
-By Brad Durrell
Geraldine Johnson
Copyright 2008, Hersam Acorn Newspapers, All Rights Reserved
INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | SKILLED NURSING & REHABILITATION | MEMORY CARE
The Watermark at 3030 Park | 3030 Park Avenue | Bridgeport, CT 06604 | 1-203-502-7593
Request Info | Map | Careers at Watermark | Privacy Policy
© 2012 Watermark Retirement Communities®
