May 2017 Schooner Flash Newsletter

The Schooner Flash

May 2017
Issue 110

Writers:
Your Schooner Family
Editor-in-Chief:
Sue O’Brien
Designer/Co-Editor:
Linda Hildonen

In This Issue:

• Mother’s Day Photos
• Upcoming Events
• Welcome
• Sawyer Memorial
• Word Search
• Tea Party Review
• Garden Plots
• Frederick Moyer
• Quilt Show
• Lifeline Screening
• Independence
• Cape Cod Trip

Calling all Schooner Ladies

As Mother’s Day approaches on Sunday, May 14th, here at Schooner we will be taking our annual ladies photo to celebrate this special, upcoming day. All who reside here are welcome to be in the picture.

The photos will be taken on Wednesday, May 3rd for Apartments, Studios, Residential Care, and Memory Care. See your monthly calendar for locations and times.

Everyone in the photo will receive a copy. We hope to see you all there!

“A mother is a person who, seeing there are only four pieces of pie for five people, promptly announces she never did care for pie”

This Way to the Fun

From concerts to events and even a fabulous two night trip, we have an exciting line up of things to do for the month of May.

• The Park St. Methodist hand bell ringing concert, on Monday, May 8th at 6:30 pm in our Village Green.
• A wool spinning demonstration from the Pineland Wool Spinners on Tuesday, May 9th at 10:00 am in the Village Green.
• A trip to Cape Cod, Massachusetts starting May 15th through May 17th.
• Concert Pianist Frederick Moyer, Monday May 22nd at 6:30 pm in the Camden Living Room

Plus a lot more! As usual, check your monthly calendars for further information on these and other upcoming events.

It is with great pleasure that we welcome you to our community!

• Pauline Delehanty, Studios
• Judy Smith, Apt. 646

2017 Sawyer Memorial Season

Spring has arrived and that means the start of a popular event that we all enjoy, the shows at Sawyer Memorial in Greene. Sign up for a shuttle ride for an “afternoon out” to one or all of these fabulous shows. Their 2017 Spring season started on Friday, April 7th and Schooner is happy to provide transport on selected Fridays. All are free to the public and presented from April through October. Programs include narrated travel films, wildlife films, lectures, musical shows and more. Our shuttle leaves at 1:15 p.m. for the 2:00 p.m. show.

Please call the receptionist at 784-2900, ext. 100 to reserve a seat. Check out your activity calendars for all monthly show information.

Happiness is a Cup of Tea

A delightful event was held in our Tenants Harbor Room on April 9th, an old-fashioned tea party complete with tasty delicacies on fancy serving trays, an assortment of teas, colorful teapots and cups. We heard that the ginger and cream cheese sandwiches were the hit of the party! Forty nine people attended and a total of $555.00 was raised for the Alzheimer’s Association.

Thank you to all who attended this festive party fundraiser. We’ll have it again next year!

A “Must See” Performance

World renowned concert pianist Frederick Moyer will deliver a concert performance for us on Monday, May 22nd at 6:30 p.m. in our Camden Living Room. He has performed for us several times in the past and we are excited to have him back.

Mr. Moyer has appeared as piano soloist with most of the major orchestras of the United States as well as many in Europe, Asia, South America, Africa and Australia. Don’t miss this concert!

Almost Time for Planting

Soon it will be time to think about planting, and we have the perfect area, right here at Schooner. Located behind Schooner on the fire road out back, we have several raised garden plots that are used by residents for growing flowers and vegetables. Memorial Day, which is the official time to start planting outdoors, arrives on Monday, May 29th. Check with Mark Prevost for more information on garden plot availability.

Quilters Wanted!

Join us on Tuesday, May 23rd at 2:30 pm to view a beautiful display of handmade quilts. Listen to each quilter as they tell you “the story” of their quilt. Simply put, a quilt is a work of art and each and every quilter is proud to show you their creation!

Contact Giselle Prevost in the Camden building if you have a quilt you would like to enter in the “Show and Tell”. We will be delighted to have you there!

Refreshments will be available.

This event will be held in our Tenants Harbor Room.

2017 Life Line Screening

Schooner Estates is pleased to once again host a preventive health event. “Life Line Screening” will be here with a day of preventive health screenings on Monday, May 8th, 2017.

Screenings are fast, painless and offered at low cost. They involve the use of ultrasound technology and scan for potential health problems related to: blocked arteries which can lead to a stroke, aortic aneurysms which can lead to a rupture, and plaque buildup in the arteries in the legs which is a strong predictor of heart disease.

Five screenings will be offered:

Carotid Artery Screening
Screen plaque buildup in the carotid arteries.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Which can lead to a ruptured aorta.

Peripheral Arterial Screening
Hardening of the arteries in the legs which is a strong predictor of heart disease.

Atrial Fibrillation
Irregular heart beat which is closely tied to stroke risk.

Osteoporosis
An ultrasound measurement of the heel bone to determine abnormal bone mass density.

ALL 5 screenings for only $149.
Call 1-888-653-6450.

Appointments required.
Appointment spaces are limited and pre-registration is required. Call and set up an appointment with them, you will be glad you did.

The Ultimate Independence

Being in control of one’s life until the end of one’s life is almost without fail the desire of every human being who realizes his own mortality. Loss of independence in decision making can be much more devastating than loss of mobility or memory. Human dignity is dependent on independence of mind. Making decisions for oneself in planning the remainder of life no matter what befalls us, can be done when one considers all options available in senior living. A senior care facility assures this independence and frees the mind and body of retirees and their families. Decisions made early eliminate later stresses – think about it!

Let’s Go on a Trip

“Spring Fever” has officially begun! Here at Schooner we are taking full advantage and starting off with a three-day getaway. The destination is beautiful, scenic “Cape Cod” in Massachusetts.

Leaving on May 15th and returning on May 17th, this fun filled trip includes sight seeing, dining, shopping, entertainment and don’t forget the sandy beaches! We already have a full sign up list and they are all quite anxious to go.

We’ve said it many times before and it is so true…Schooner is the place to be for exciting senior programs, events and activities.

November 2016 Independent Living Activity Calendar
November 2016 Assisted Living and Residential Care Activity Calendar
November 2016 Memory Care Activity Calendar

August 2016 Schooner Flash Newsletter

The Schooner Flash

Issue 101
August 2016

Writers:
Your Schooner Family
Editor-in-Chief:
Sue O’Brien
Designer/Co-Editor:
Linda Hildonen

Inside This Issue

• August Seafood Buffet
• Tai Chi
• Welcome
• Our Commitment
• American Experience
• July Cookout Photos
• Our Billiard Room
• Open House 2016
• Word Search
• An Important Decision
• New Hampshire Trip

Calling All Seafood Lovers

Even though we do not want summer to move along too quickly, we are looking forward to our upcoming “Seafood Buffet Cookout” on Wednesday, August 31st. If you love seafood, you certainly won’t be disappointed. Come and enjoy the hospitality of our wonderful staff and a meal you won’t soon forget! The entire Schooner team is looking forward to welcoming you and your family. Please call our front desk at 784-2900 for sign up and ticket information. Our menu:

• Served Seafood Chowder
• Strawberry and Goat cheese Spinach Salad with Toasted Almonds, Shaved Red Onion and Balsamic Vinaigrette
• Fruit Salad
• Smoked Seafood Platter
• Maine Lobster Rolls
• Steamed Clams
• Fried Maine Shrimp
• Broiled Haddock with Lemon Herb Butter
• Native Corn
• Dill Buttered Red Bliss Potatoes
• Seafood Alternate Only: Blueberry BBQ Grilled Half-Chickens
• Red Berry Prosecco and Strawberry Lemonade Sorbet
• Blueberry Crisp
• Fresh Cream Cheese Biscuits

Balance, Breath, Energy

Come learn more and try Tai Chi, an ancient Chinese tradition that, today, is practiced as a graceful form of exercise. It involves a series of movements performed in a slow, focused manner accompanied by deep breathing.

Mike Elliot has taught this beneficial form of exercise for decades. He will be here at Schooner Estates on Tuesday morning, August 16th at 10:45 a.m. in the Tenants Harbor Room.

Residents, staff, friends and family are all encouraged to attend. Come and see for yourself the benefits Tai Chi can have in store for you.

A Commitment to Excellence

From our perspective, there can be no better place to live or work than right here at Schooner. We don’t pretend to say that Schooner is perfect, but it offers a tremendous wealth of experiences for all types of individuals. It has been an inspiration to see so many new relationships and friendships being formed. How very much courage you all exhibit in how you deal with the aging process.

Our community has developed into a large family that really cares for one another. No one loses their own individuality, we only gain in as much as we can let others into our lives (with all their imperfections). Our observation is that those who do let others into their lives are the happiest of people. Love of neighbors, it’s not an original idea of ours, but there sure seems to be a lot of truth in it.

A Bit of Presidential Energy

For all you presidential history buffs, watch channel 10: American Experience, a television program and documentary series which airs documentaries about historic events or historical figures. They will present an interesting six part biography series of six past presidents and the qualities that make an effective president and shape a legacy.

JFK: Mon.-Tues. – August 8-9 at 9 pm
LBJ: Weds. – August 10, at 8 & 10 pm
Nixon: Thurs. – August 11 at 8 pm
Jimmy Carter: Mon. – August 15 at 9 pm
Reagan: Tues. – Weds. – August 16-17 at 9 pm
George H.W. Bush: Thurs. -August 18 at 8 pm

Resident Article from Tonie Ramsey: Open House 2016

One of the real highlights of living at Schooner Estates comes in the form of it’s annual Open House. Have you been a participant in the past? What did you find most exciting?

Join the Schooner staff and residents, and their friends and family for an afternoon of fun on September 10th from 11 am to 3 pm. You will be greeted by a welcome committee that is happy and proud to share their community with you. There will be refreshments (including a cookout from 12-1:30 pm), tours of the campus, displays featuring the accomplishments and interests of our residents, and live music starting at 2:30 pm.

Invitation postcards are available if you would like to invite your own friends and family to experience this event. The Schooner Estates Open House is a happy time for those who wish to invite others into their Schooner home, and show off the active, involved and energized lifestyle that so many of us seniors continue to live!

Tonie Ramsey is the President of the Tenants Advisory Council, and a long-time Schooner Resident.

I’m Not Ready Yet

We hear that comment so often when talking to people about the lifestyle at Schooner Estates and sometimes find it difficult to answer in a brief way. The article below, says exactly what we would like to say to folks who are trying to make this decision.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
How often a strong and vigorous man or an active and gracious woman enter their retirement years and use this excuse to postpone the planning and decisions that could free them to enjoy the time.

They’re not ready yet…

•To live in an attractive and comfortable home without the effort of maintaining it.
•To enjoy excellent meals, graciously served in an attractive dining room, and give up the chores of constant shopping, cooking, and cleaning up.
•To eliminate worry concerning health, security and transportation.

They’re not ready, in short, to simplify their lives. They wait for some sign, some failing, to justify or even compel a move from the home that’s too big, or chores and possessions which require a great deal of attention. Sometimes they wait too long.

Sometimes they find they have wasted what could have been some of their better years. Moving to senior living shouldn’t mean retiring from life, but simplifying life to enjoy new interests and activities, or the old ones there wasn’t enough time for. One doesn’t step into old age by moving to a community, but opens a new door to an active, dignified and interesting life.

What does the senior living home have to offer? Independence, a sense of community, friendships, a place to be private and security.

Our best gift? A gift of time to use constructively and personal services to be used as needed.

Destination: New Hampshire

Are you yearning for another Schooner mini vacation trip? Well, we are in the process of planning a 2 night Fall trip to the beautiful state of New Hampshire, a place where there is never a shortage of things to do! Take a look below at the fun that awaits you!

•Travel to Moultonborough to “Castle in the Clouds”.
•Two nights – motel accommodations.
•Dinner out at “Hart’s Turkey Farm Restaurant” and “Jonathan’s Seafood Restaurant”.
•Ride the M.S. Mount Washington; a motor ship, on Lake Winnipesaukee.
•A train ride aboard the Conway Scenic Railroad.
•And of course a delicious breakfast and lunch each day and sightseeing.

Trip dates: Tuesday, September 13th, Wednesday, September 14th, and Thursday, September 15th.

Check with Mark Prevost, our Resident Services Director, for sign up information.

July 2016 Schooner Flash – 100th Issue

The Schooner Flash

Issue 100
July 2016

Writers:

Your Schooner Family

Editor-in-Chief:

Sue O’Brien

Designer/Co-Editor:

Linda Hildonen

In This Issue:

• Our 100th Issue
• June Cookout Photos
• Welcome
• July Cookout
• Creation Story Art
• Garden Plots
• Gentlemen’s Photos
• A Past Article
• Schooner Centenarians
• Resident Guest Article
• Our Editor, Sue O’Brien
• A Word from Barbra

100 Issues and Still Young!

We are very pleased and excited to announce that our July issue of the Schooner newsletter is number 100! Our first issue was printed in November of 2007. New things were happening at that time including renovations of our Theatre and Exercise room. The Schooner cottage was being transformed into a temporary guest room and our “Schooner Centenarian Club” welcomed it’s first member.

For our 100th anniversary issue, we’ve doubled our content and prepared a mix of guest articles from you, our wonderful residents! We have included a variety of stories we hope you will find special, along with regular monthly newsletter articles. We have also included a feature from the November 2007 issue.

Who’s New in the Neighborhood?

It is with our great pleasure that we welcome you to the Schooner Community!

• Maurice Albert, studio 106
• Virginia Houston, Residential Care
• Blanche McLeod, Residential Care
• Ellie Rolerson, Apartment 647

Barbecue Number 2: Red, White and Blue

Look through your closets for your red, white and blue star studded attire! Our second cookout of the season, the “Red, White and Blue Cookout” is scheduled for Wednesday, July 6th.

Our menu will be loaded with a delicious variety of “4th of July style” foods prepared by our Chef Seth Lyons and his amazing culinary crew.

We are always excited to have your friends and family attend these fun social events. Be sure to invite them! Please call our front desk at 784-2900 for sign up and ticket information.

~ Our Americana Menu ~

Salads
Tossed
Cucumbers in Apple Cider Vinegar
Green Onion Slaw
Macaroni with Shrimp and Peas

Mains
Southern Fried Chicken
Mini Cheeseburgers Deluxe
BBQ Shrimp Skewers
Homemade Mac n’ Cheese
Baked Pork n’ Beans
Corn on the Cobb

Desserts
Apple Pie with Ice Cream
Strawberry Rhubarb Shortcake
Fresh Fruit Cups

Blast from the Past: Odds and Ends, Something to Think About

Below is an article taken directly from our November 2007 issue. Submitted by our former Business Office Controller, Mr. Brian French.

TO ALL THE KIDS WHO SURVIVED THE 1930’s, 40’s, 50’s, 60’s AND 70’s!

First, we survived being born to mothers who smoked and/or drank while they were pregnant. They took aspirin, ate blue cheese dressing, tuna from a can, and didn’t get tested for diabetes. Then after that trauma, we were put to sleep on our tummies in baby cribs covered with bright colored lead-based paints. We had no childproof lids or locks on medicine bottles, door or cabinets and when we rode our bikes, we had no helmets, not to mention the risks we took hitchhiking. As infants, we would ride in cars with no car seats, booster seats, seat belts or air bags. Riding in the back of a pick up on a warm day was always a treat.

We ate cupcakes, white bread and real butter and drank Kool-aid made with sugar, but we weren’t overweight because, we were always outside playing! We did not have video games, cell phones, or computers…WE HAD FRIENDS and we went outside and found them.

We rode bikes or walked to a friend’s house and knocked on the door or rang the bell, or just walked in and talked to them. Back then we had no cell phones—no one was able to reach us all day. And we were O.K.

These generations have produced some of the best risk-takers, problem solvers and inventors ever! The past 50 years have been an explosion of innovation and new ideas. We had freedom, failure, success & responsibility, and we learned HOW TO DEAL WITH IT ALL!
If you are one of them… CONGRATULATIONS!

Looking Fabulous at 100!

In recognition of our 100th issue, we found it fitting to share with you a list of Schooner residents who have reached the distinguished age of 100, or more! Since living this long is quite an accomplishment to say the least, we feel this is quite a lengthy list. Our “Schooner Centenarian Club” began in 2007. Listed below are our current members.

• Eleanor Ness
• Hope Weston
• Irving Isaacson
• Barbra Trask
• Doris Robinson

The Creation Story, Told Through Works of Art

We are proud to provide a wide variety of scheduled activities for our residents to choose from throughout each month. From musical events, day and overnight trips, theme barbeques, educational presentations, plus much more. We have something for everyone.

The month of July brings backs to us, Cynthia Lee Peer from “Peer Presentations”. She will present us with a beautiful slide show displaying the “Creation of the World” unfolding through historic works of art. See the creation of the heavens and earth, the fish, birds, animals and Adam and Eve. Shown in our Tenants Harbor Room on Tuesday, July 12th at 2:15 p.m. See Sue in the Camden office for a color brochure of this event.

Welcome to My Garden!

A note to all you casual gardeners; it’s better to be proud of a small garden than to be frustrated by trying to take care of an oversize one. In order to help you accomplish this rewarding task, Schooner has several raised garden plots that are used by residents for growing flowers and vegetables. These small plots make gardening fun and easy to do. It’s not too late to start a flower garden or a tomato plant or two!

Check with Mark Prevost, Resident Services Director, for more information on garden plot availability. The plots are located behind Schooner on the fire road. Enjoy!

Memorial Day, which is the official time to start planting outdoors, arrives on Monday, May 30th. Check with Mark Prevost, Resident Services Director, for more information on garden plot availability. The plots are located behind Schooner on the fire road.

Guest Column: Advice from Betty Hayes

Elizabeth “Betty” Hayes, a new resident living in the Rockport building with her husband Dell, graciously agreed to write the following column of advice for those considering making the move to Schooner.

A wise man once said we all want to live long lives, but none of us wants to grow old.  Here at Schooner we see many examples of living long, but staying young at heart. Anyone can take part in many of the activities here, or be the audience for entertainment.  Trips are also arranged as well as local transportation, voiding the necessity and expense of maintaining a vehicle.

Dell and I feel carefree without housekeeping duties and upkeep of the house, yard and gardens.  You might say the living is easy as we enjoy safety, housekeeping, meals, and the option to arrange for healthcare. One can be as social or reclusive as you desire.  We have found everyone to be congenial at every level.

We share a table at dinner (served at noon) with two youngsters, Joyce and Rene Poulin, who exemplify taking advantage of what Schooner has to offer. They participate in the activities and go to most of the entertainments while staying close to their children.  Dell’s brother and his wife Rachel occupy a nearby table and Glenn has a penchant for telling funny stories.  We may lose our hair, teeth and youthful figures but not our sense of humor.

We would urge everyone to plan ahead, and if a future move to a retirement community seems likely, arrange to do it while you are still energetic and active enough to pack, unpack and enjoy the activities and trips offered here.  Dell and I refused to accept reality and waited until this spring hoping we would still have a bit of spring left in our step.

A saying comes to mind.  “There are no strangers here, just friends you may not have met yet.”

Hail to the Chief: Our Editor, Sue O’Brien

We’d like to take a moment to acknowledge Sue O’Brien, current Editor-in-Chief of the Schooner Flash. Sue has been working at Schooner for eighteen years, and has worked on every issue of the Flash since it was started by Jane Morrison, former Director of Operations. Sue is proud of both the Flash, and her time here, saying that the great thing about working at Schooner is that it’s like having a second family.
Sue and her husband live in Gray, and recently celebrated an addition to the family: her Grandson George Daniel was born on June 4th. Congratulations Sue, and thank you for all the hard work!

A Word from Our President

A decade ago, John and I bought Schooner Estates. We believed then, and do now, that the power of community is something that can make an enormous difference in the lives of seniors, their families, and the people who work with them. Every day, we’re proud to hear stories of our residents, employees, and community partners enriching each other’s lives. The Schooner Community is truly a family, and we’re so lucky to be a part of it.

As with any community, communication plays a vital role in strengthening our bonds and uniting us together. That’s why I’m so proud of the Flash. In this newsletter, we have celebrated the present, learned of future changes, and observed the significance of our past. In sharing our experiences, we have grown wiser, closer, and stronger.

I want to thank and congratulate everyone who has been involved with the Flash in these past 100 issues, and invite everyone in our community to be a part of it in the future, not only by continuing to read, but by sharing ideas and articles. Always remember, Our Community is Your Community.

-Barbra Crowley, President of Schooner Estates

June 2016 Schooner Flash Newsletter

The Schooner Flash

June 2016
Issue 99

Writers: Your Schooner Team
Technical Editor: Sue O’Brien

Inside This Issue
**************

• June Barbecue
• Hydration
• Welcome
• Centenarian Club
• Northern Hospitality
• Mother’s Day Photos

It’s Barbecue Time

While we are near the end of another season of temperamental spring weather, summer is on our minds and will soon be on the horizon! And speaking of summer, the plans for our popular summer barbecues have been put in place. Below are the scheduled dates and themes in order to help you plan ahead:
June 8th…Hawaiian Luau
July 6th… Americana Red White and Blue
August 31st… Seafood Outing
September 21st…Oktoberfest

So Save the Date and make sure you don’t miss out on one of these highlighted events. Before you know it, summer will be knocking at the door letting us know that it’s time to take the party outside!

Our first outdoor get together of the season, the Hawaiian Luau barbeque, scheduled for June 8th, is just around the corner! Stop by or call the front desk at 784-2900 to pick up your guest ticket. We look forward to seeing you there, dressed in bright and colorful Hawaiian attire! The menu for this event will be posted soon.

A Need to Hydrate

It cannot be said enough – no matter what time of year it is, staying hydrated is essential! Drink plenty of water and try to limit your caffeine consumption. Here at Schooner, check out our Brass Rail Café in the Village Green and the Camden coffee bar area. We have ice cold, fresh fruit flavored water available daily. Stay hydrated and stay healthy!

Who’s New in the Neighborhood…

It is with great pleasure that we welcome you to our community!

• Bea Lowell, studio 106
• Phyllis Schneider, apartment 515

We Welcomed a New Member

We had the honor of inducting a new member into our distinguished Schooner Centenarian Club in May. Residential Care resident, Doris Robbins, was welcomed into the club in celebration of her May 12th, 100th birthday!

This special celebration included all her Schooner friends and many staff members. Knowing she is an avid quilter, her friends gave her a beautiful assortment of handmade “signature quilt” squares, which she will soon be piecing together! Doris is shown receiving a lovely Schooner Centenarian plaque from Mark Prevost, our Resident Services Director.

Schooner Estates: Northern Hospitality at It’s Best

I often think of the time I spent working at Senior Living Communities in Mississippi and Alabama.  Staff conversations often centered around the term “Southern Hospitality”, or how we welcomed strangers into our home…..The Community we lived at. The staff and I experienced it and tried to practice it everyday.  Saying that, as good as Southern Hospitality is, it often runs a distant second to our style of Northern Hospitality we practice at Schooner Estates.

Let me give you an example.  People often comment on how much I enjoy touring potential residents, their families, friends or members of our community at Schooner Estates.  And I do.  One of the things I enjoy the most about showing off our community is the conversation we have with our Tenants.  In some other communities I might have to take the long way on the tour (if you know what I mean!).  I always have a member of our Schooner Estates family stop me and want to engage in conversation with the people touring.  It is always a great experience for me, the person touring and the tenant.  The conversation goes to: When are you moving in? – talking about the staff, our health care team, how maintenance promptly takes care of challenges, how transportation went out of their way or how wonderful the food is.

I only have to sit back, make the introduction and smile.  Pure Northern Hospitality, the Schooner Estates way! So when you see me touring folks here, stop and say hi and enjoy the conversation!

~ David Cassidy, Director of Marketing and Community Relations

So when you see me touring folks here, stop say hi and enjoy the conversation!

Schooner Ladies’ Photos 2016

We hope everyone had a lovely May Mother’s Day! The Schooner ladies photos are a yearly tradition here at Schooner. As you can see, we had a large turnout!

May 2016 Schooner Flash Newsletter

The Schooner Flash

Issue 98
May 2016

Inside This Issue
**************

• 2016 Schooner Award
• Resident Award
• Welcome
• Words of Wisdom
• Senior College
• Tea Party
• Adult Coloring
• Books Are Fun Event

2016 Assisted Living Award

For the second year in a row, Schooner Estates has been awarded the Best Assisted Living Award from the Lewiston-Auburn Area from SeniorAdvisor.com. This award is based on real reviews from people who live and visit here and recognizes outstanding senior living and home care providers who have received consistently high ratings. Winners of the SeniorAdvisor.com Best of 2016 Awards are located all over the country and represent the top tier of in-home care, assisted living, and other senior living providers in the country. Winners are placed in the top one percent of senior care providers nationwide.

Thanks to all who submitted reviews, to everyone who lives and works here and for making Schooner Estates great!

And the Award Goes To…

A nice group of family and Schooner friends of Tonie Ramsey attended the 14th annual “Remember Me” photo exhibition and recognition ceremony at the Augusta Civic center on April 5th. Despite the cold weather, honorees came from all over the state to be recognized by the Maine Health Care Association for lifetime achievement to their nation, state, and local communities. Mrs. Ramsey was recognized for the incredible number of accomplishments she had throughout her life, championing new programs and associations to benefit the Lewiston/Auburn area. She served as president and director of too many groups to mention. Her list of organizational and leadership skills is very impressive. Congratulations Tonie!

Who’s New in the Neighborhood…

* Eugenie Brown, Residential Care
* Arlene Fellman, apt. 425
* Robert Treworgy, apt. 316

Words of Wisdom

Each month, our Schooner newsletter will include a new selection of positive affirmations and quotations, that we have collected from you, our residents! We’re glad to share them and hope that you find inspiration from them.

“Enjoy your children while they’re young, spend time with your family and friends, and live life to the fullest.”

Brenda Gurney

Thank you Brenda!

Senior College

Here at Schooner, residents and outside attendees are currently in the midst of their Spring Senior College class. The class, “An Introduction to the Study of Religion”, is brought to us by the USM Lewiston-Auburn College. It is being taught by Senior College Instructor, Charles W. Plummer. Schooner hosts the senior college classes yearly in our Tenants Harbor Room.

All courses held here are open first to Schooner residents. Yet another of the many wonderful benefits of living at Schooner Estates.

Time to Relax…

Coloring books are no longer just for kids. In fact, adult coloring books are growing more popular everyday. Researchers, having studied the calming benefits of this activity for over a decade, are letting us know that coloring does offer a list of mental benefits. It definitely has therapeutic potential to reduce anxiety and create focus. Coloring also allows us to switch off our brains from other thoughts and focus only on the moment, helping to alleviate stress.

Here at Schooner, every 2nd and 4th Friday of each month, we are pleased to offer an adult coloring session. This therapeutic session starts at 2:30 p.m. in the 2nd floor Study, materials are provided. These classes are sure to put a smile on your face!

Senior College

Here at Schooner, residents and outside attendees are currently in the midst of their Spring Senior College class. The class, “An Introduction to the Study of Religion”, is brought to us by the USM Lewiston-Auburn College. It is being taught by Senior College Instructor, Charles W. Plummer. Schooner hosts the senior college classes yearly in our Tenants Harbor Room.

All courses held here are open first to Schooner residents. Yet another of the many wonderful benefits of living at Schooner Estates.

Books and Gifts Galore

Schooner is happy to be hosting another “Books Are Fun” event. The fair will be loaded with gifts and books from hundreds of great publishers. All are at great discounts of 30, 40 and even 50 percent off the manufacturer’s suggested retail price. You are sure to find something special. So stop by and browse through their many items!

The fair will be held in our Village Green on Friday, May 20th from 9-4 p.m.

A Spot of Tea

All the elements of an old-fashioned tea party were present: tasty delicacies on fancy serving trays, an assortment of teas, pretty teapots and cups, vases holding assorted colors of roses, and ladies wearing hats. The room was alive with the sound of chatter and clinking of china. Thank you to all who attended the American Heart Association tea party fundraiser on April 24th, held right here at Schooner Estates.  A wonderful time was had by all! We hope to make this an annual event.  If you have suggestions for future events please contact Mark at 784-2900, extension 132.

April 2016 Schooner Flash Newsletter

The Schooner Flash

April 2016
Issue 97
Writers: Your Schooner Team
Technical Editor: Sue O’Brien

Inside This Issue

**************

• Words of Wisdom
• Kitchen Renovations
• Welcome
• Lifeline Screening
• Entertainment
• Calendars Wanted
• Wellness Board
• Spring Sawyer Program

Words of Wisdom Surveys

Thanks to all who filled out and returned surveys with their “Words of Wisdom”. Reading through these has revealed so many gems that we can’t wait to share! For instance, when asked about love and marriage, Beverley Heath gave us this piece of advice: “Marriage is not a 50/50 proposition, but giving the best of yourself, If you can achieve this, your glass will be half full”.
Be on the lookout, as we find creative ways to share these Words of Wisdom throughout the year!

Linda Hildonen

Changes are on the Way

During the month of April we will be starting an upgrade on our main kitchen, off the Village Green. We feel this is important in order to best serve the very important needs of our residents. While this work is being done, the Schooner cottage will be used as a temporary kitchen. Please be assured that you will receive the same level of Schooner quality and services that you are accustomed to. We intend to blend modern convenience and function to the main kitchen. Monthly updates will be added to our newsletter in order to keep everyone informed with updates on the progress of this exciting endeavor. We will do our utmost to keep everything running smoothly and efficiently. As always, we will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding this project.

Who’s New in the Neighborhood…

It is with great pleasure that we welcome you to our community!

• Shirley Bornstein, Residential Care
• Rose Derocher, studio 113
• Betty Howland, Memory Care
• Roberta Moulton, Residential Care
• Colleen Weston, apartment 512

Choose to Be Healthy

Schooner Senior Living Community is pleased to offer a preventive health event.  Life Line Screening, a leading provider of community-based preventive health screenings, will host their affordable, non-invasive and painless health screenings on Monday, April 11th.  Five screenings will be offered that scan for potential health problems related to: blocked arteries which is a leading cause of stroke; abdominal aortic aneurysms which can lead to a ruptured aorta; hardening of the arteries in the legs which is a strong predictor of heart disease; atrial fibrillation or irregular heart beat which is closely tied to stroke risk; and a bone density screening, for men and women, used to assess the risk of osteoporosis.

Register for a Wellness Package which includes 4 vascular tests and osteoporosis screening from $149 ($139 with our member discount).  All five screenings take 60-90 minutes to complete.

In order to register for this event and to receive a $10 discount off any package priced above $129, please call 1-888-653-6441 or visit this website: www.lifelinescreening.com/community-partners.

Wanted…Calendars

How many of us have a stack of old calendars that we are not quite sure what to do with…but it seems like such a waste to throw away quality glossy paper with pretty pictures, right? Well, the folks in our Residential Care craft group will be happy to take them off your hands! They will be using them for one of their many craft projects this year. What a great way to make use of dated calendars and provide materials for their wonderful “works of art”.

Calendars may be dropped off at Sue’s desk or the front desk in the Castine building. Thank you!

Rolling Turtle and the Old String Band

We are excited to announce Paul “Rolling Turtle” Cavitt, scheduled on our April calendar – for Thursday, April 7th in our Village Green. Playing mandolin for 25 years, he has recorded five albums as a solo artist, and the newest CD features the entire band. Turtle has played live venues throughout the United States. Rolling Turtle is a “preservationist”, not a songwriter, whose passion is preserving multiple folk traditions encompassing a variety of American musical genres, including Old-Time Appalachian and other traditional Americana, as well as Celtic and traditional Gospel Hymns.

Hope to see you there!

The Greatest Wealth is Here

Have you checked out the “Wellness” board, located right outside the Searsport dining room on the ground floor. For the past several months staff in each department at Schooner have had the opportunity of setting up a new display, each month. Stop by and read about some healthy lifestyle tips!

With Spring, Comes Sawyer

Get in the spirit of warmer weather with a shuttle ride to Greene for an “afternoon out” to Sawyer Memorial. Their 2016 Spring season starts on Friday, April 1st and Schooner is happy to provide shuttle service to each show. All are free to the public and presented on Fridays from April through October. Programs include narrated travel films, wildlife films, lectures, musicals, magic shows and more. The Schooner shuttle leaves at 1:15 p.m. for the 2:00 p.m. show. Please call the receptionist at 784-2900, ext. 100 to reserve a seat. See your activity calendars for all monthly show information. Enjoy!

January 2016 Flash Newsletter

The Schooner Flash

January 2016
Issue 94
Writers: Your Schooner Team
Technical Editor: Sue O’Brien

Inside This Issue
**************

• 2016 Campaign

• Robin Dow Kick-off

• Welcome

• Fred Moyer Concert

• Tonie Ramsey Award

• Mardi Gras 2016

• Year in Review

• TWC Service

Happy New Year!

Russian concert pianist, Mark Demidovich will present to us another amazing piano recital on Tuesday, January 5th at 3:00 p.m. A performance sure to impress all! Right here in our Camden Living Room.

2016 Campaign: Words of Wisdom

Here at Schooner Estates, our Residents have lived full and fascinating lives. You’ve lived through good times and bad, prosperity and need, love and loss. You’ve seen wars, progress, invention, and political upheaval. You’ve seen all the things that have changed this world of ours, and what’s more, you’ve seen all constants that have endured. What you’ve gained through all this is something invaluable: your unique and experienced perspective.

This year, Schooner Estates would like to continue the trend of focusing our marketing and awareness efforts on you, our amazing residents. We’re hoping that you will share your words of wisdom with us so that we can, in turn, share them with others: here in the flash, on our Facebook page, maybe even in the Newspaper and beyond!

We will be hosting a video and photo shoot on Wednesday, January 13th at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. in the Castine Living Room. We hope you’ll come by and tell us what it is you’ve learned in life that you hope other people can benefit from knowing.  We can’t wait to hear your words of wisdom!

Linda Hildonen

Robin Dow 2016 Kick-Off Meeting

The Robin Dow Senior Citizens Club will resume meetings in the Tenants Harbor Room on January 13th and will still be held the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month. This meeting brings together seniors from the local area. Living here at Schooner, you have the advantage of not having to go out on cold winter days.

Doors open at 10:30 a.m. for socializing with free fresh brewed coffee and sale of raffle tickets to members only, prior to the 11:30 a.m. meeting. You are invited to attend as a guest. Members enjoy many scheduled activities such as birthday celebrations. Stop by and enjoy some time with the group. They look forward to seeing you!

Who’s New in the Neighborhood…

It is with great pleasure we welcome you to the community!
* Joan Collins apt. 631 * Joyce Coyne stu. 110
* Masumi Curtis apt. 626 * Anna Karelas apt. 327

Piano Player Extraordinaire!

World renowned concert pianist Frederick Moyer will deliver a concert performance for us on Wednesday, January 27th at 4:00 p.m. in our Camden Living Room. He has appeared as piano soloist with most of the major orchestras of the United States as well as many in Europe, Asia, South America, Africa and Australia. Don’t miss this concert!

And the Award Goes To…

Congratulation’s goes out to our own Tonie Ramsey. On December 3rd, at the Lewiston Ramada Inn, she and two other women were presented with the inaugural Women of Achievement Award for the YWCA of Central Maine. This prestigious award, the first established by the YWCA to recognize women’s contributions in our community, recognizes women who have made extraordinary accomplishments through community service and dedication to the YWCA mission.

“The Tonie Ramsey Service Award”, was inspired by decades of volunteerism and service to boards of directors, including Central Maine Medical Center’s Bennett Breast Care Center, the Woman’s Literary Union, the Auburn Public Library, the Sarah Frye Home, Androscoggin County United Way and the Women’s Hospital Association.

Mardi Gras 2016

Dust off your beads, try on your mask and get ready for Mardi Gras 2016, right here at Schooner! This year’s date is Tuesday, February 9th and we are counting down the days already, planning for it’s early February arrival. Over the years it has become an annual event here at Schooner. During the month of January, you will be receiving information regarding guest sign up and buffet seating times.

Year in Review

This January marks my one-year anniversary of working for Schooner Estates as the Director of Marketing and Community Relations, and it’s been a wonderful year.  While my job can keep me very busy at times, I’ve never felt that I have to work hard to convince people to live here. That’s because there’s something you can feel when you walk through the door here at Schooner for the first time. I remember my first visit, back in December of 2014. When I walked in the main entrance, I could feel it.

What is “it,” you ask? “It” is the positive and caring feeling of a happy community. “It” is staff members that greet you with a smile, tenants that love where they live, and families that trust us, and love coming here to visit their loved ones.  “It” is the quality that everyone should look for in a Senior Living Community, and, let me tell you, Schooner has plenty of “It”!

I’ve had the good fortune to manage, work at and visit many Senior Living Communities, and I can tell you first-hand that Schooner Estates is at the top of the list. I have never felt so close to tenants: when I have a stressful moment in my day, I only need to look up and see Wilhelmina, Cornelia, Sue or Mark walking by with a big smile and a cheerful “hello” to make me feel at ease once again. So many of our tenants are invested in the success of our community, and stop by to share their thoughts and ideas. It’s their caring, and the hard work of our excellent staff, that gives Schooner Estates the reputation of being unparalleled in quality in every level of care. I thank you all for being the reason we have “it.” You’re what “it” is all about!

David Cassidy

Time Warner Cable Announcement

In order to provide our residents with excellent customer service, our bulk cable television/entertainment needs provider, Time Warner Cable, has provided Schooner Estates with a dedicated customer care number. The number is 844-725-4339. Feel free to start using it immediately for any questions or concerns you may have regarding this service.