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Year: 2018

Blessed are the Peacemakers

Sun, October 14, 2018 Published by

Each year a team of people working for Webster’s Dictionary meet to decide which new words to add to their latest edition. They apparently make their selections based partly upon these questions: is the word in widespread use? Does it have staying power, or is it a passing fad?

Recent new inclusions include the words hangry (becoming bad tempered as a result of being hungry), newsjacking (the practice of aligning a brand with a current event in an attempt to generate media attention and boost the brand’s exposure) and Kompromat (compromising information collected for use in blackmailing, usually for a political purpose).

The words which we choose to use matter. The usage and creation of new words often reflects the preoccupations and values of a culture. I wonder then what these words say about our culture?

This year a group of people involved in peacebuilding have proposed that the word peacebuilding be given a dictionary definition. It seems reasonable they argue, that the activities of the many people around the world who are committed to the prevention of conflict and the promotion of a lasting peace be included in the dictionary alongside warmongers, firebrands and rabble-rousers. In 1992, the UN defined peacebuilding, alongside peacekeeping and peacemaking (both already in the dictionary), as a distinct and essential means to helping war-torn societies transition from violence to peace.

Peacebuilding is, by its nature, an unheralded and hidden activity. It is a word which describes something which is difficult, something that requires stamina and patience, and there are particular dispositions found in those called to that work, whom the prophet Isaiah called “repairers of the breach”.

One such peacebuilder, Martin Luther King, once said that “the arc of the moral universe is long but it bends towards justice.” Others today endorse that hopeful trajectory with statistics suggesting that a less violent humanity is evolving. I pray for that to be true. If it is, then we are going to need even more peacemakers to keep us on track.

We live in a time of great verbal as well as physical violence. And verbal aggression is often a precursor to physical. Our words do matter. Jesus said “blessed are the peacemakers.” And I believe that, and ask your prayers for all involved in that effort, but we must also remember that the inheritors of peace are also blessed. We may not live our lives in that awareness, but we are blessed in this country by an inheritance of a peace built upon the efforts of others who have tried to weave together the fabric of a diverse and free society to create something whole.

Perhaps we need a new word which more fully acknowledges that, and perhaps we also need to acknowledge that we are all called to be peacemakers, peacebuilders and peacekeepers today so that those who follow us can inherit the same.*

Money

Sun, October 14, 2018 Published by

Money. Even under the best of circumstances, it’s a subject few people want to discuss…even with individuals in their own family. But as people age, it becomes important—and sometimes necessary—that the senior’s adult children or another trusted person has an understanding of their financial situation—what is sometimes referred to as “financial caregiving.”

It happens too often that an older person suffers a sudden serious health event, and no one knows how or is able to access the person’s money in order to do things like pay household bills, taxes, or medical expenses. Where is mom’s checkbook? Where’s the safe deposit key? What company is the custodian for her IRA? Oh wait, my name isn’t on any of mom’s accounts, so I can’t even access the funds. It’s a difficult situation to navigate, especially on top of the stress of dealing with your loved one’s health crisis.

Another all-too-common scenario: a senior, perhaps in the early stages of dementia or even with normal age-related cognitive decline, begins forgetting to pay their bills. Or it could be that they can’t recall where they put their checkbook and the stamps. Or worse, maybe they have been taken advantage of by a scam artist of some type. Such situations can result in utilities being turned off or a foreclosure on their home, ruin a senior’s credit rating, and even drain the savings they have worked so hard to build up over their lifetime.

These example situations are just a few of the reasons why it’s important for adult children to initiate a conversation with their aging parent(s) about their finances and then take steps to put a plan in place to handle such scenarios where financial caregiving may be necessary. And if your parents are of an advanced age, there really is no time like the present to broach this topic.

But oftentimes, both parties—parent and adult child—put off this crucial discussion. As with most topics that deal with the realities of getting older and even dying, it is human nature to want to avoid these taboo subjects.

Aging parents may be in denial about their level of cognitive and/or physical decline, adamant that they are still perfectly capable of remaining independent, both with their living arrangements and their finances. Adult children may struggle with seeing their parents deteriorate with age and thus want to avoid the misperception that they are “meddling” in their parents’ business.

But the important point for all parties to keep in mind is that this is really just one of the steps that everyone should take in order to prepare for the unknowns of the future. Just as you create a will, save money for retirement, or purchase insurance coverage, taking steps to plan for handling a senior’s finances if they are no longer able to do it themselves should be on the list of things to do before a crisis arises.

Speaking to adult children here: in order to initiate the conversation with your aging parent(s) about putting a plan in place to manage household finances if needed, it is often best simply to find your moment, and dive into the subject. A gentle way to start might go something like this:

“Dad, you know how as most people get older, they may need a little extra help with things like yardwork or chores around the house? Well, I wanted to talk with you about how I might be able to help lift some of the burden off of you when it comes to managing your household finances, just in case it should ever become a challenge for you to do it on your own. I know you and mom worked hard to financially prepare for your retirement and future care needs, and I want to be sure that we have a plan in place so that, if the time comes, we are able to easily access those funds to help take the very best care of you and mom.”

Those of you reading this who are the elders with children, please think of the gift that you can give your children by having this conversation without it being a crisis. 

Many of you know that my own mother passed away this summer, so I am able to tell you with specific reference, here are a few of the specific tasks you will want to consider completing:

Create power of attorney documents, designating someone who will have the ability to make important decisions—including financial decisions—for the senior should they become incapacitated.

Get yourself or another trusted loved one added as an authorized signatory on the banking accounts and the safe deposit box.

Contact the individual retirement account (IRA) custodian company to determine if they have their own specific power of attorney documents that must be completed in order for a loved one to access the IRA’s funds.

If you live far from your parents but still want to prepare for the “what ifs” of their future, you can explore hiring a professional daily money manager—a person who will sit down with your loved one and help them pay bills, file insurance paperwork, balance their checkbook, and much more. Visit American Association of Daily Money Managers to find an insured, bonded money manager in whom you feel confident.

Taking these steps now, before an issue arises, can save you and your loved ones a lot of heartache and headaches down the road should something happen that prevents the senior from being able to attend to their own finances.

Sons, daughters, decision makers: if you’re still feeling unsure or overwhelmed by the prospect of assisting your aging parent with the management of their household finances, there are a number of places you can turn for help.

Visit the National Caregivers Library site and search for “financial caregiving,” or go to “Money Matters” in the navigation. You’ll find an extensive array of articles on the topic.

Similarly, visit org and search their site for the phrase “financial caregiving.” For example, they have an informative whitepaper entitled, “Family Financial Caregiving: Rewards, Stresses, and Responsibilities.”

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has several guides on managing someone else’s money, which can help financial caregivers navigate the process and their responsibilities.*

October Town Hall Recap

Sun, October 7, 2018 Published by

Rev. David W. Ragan, Senior VP of Resident Services, called the meeting to order at 2:15PM welcoming residents and thanking Gregorys’ Fresh Market for their service and generosity in providing free bags of produce for many of the attendees. Three residents were at a Town Hall for the first time, and David encouraged residents to reach out to new neighbors and encourage them to attend these meetings and find out all that is happening on campus. David also noted that the Welcome Coffee for new residents is held at 2:00PM in the Life Center on the fourth Friday of every month, October 24th this month. All are invited to attend and meet the new residents and learn where they are from, what special interests they have, and what led them to our campus. A slide show of clever pumpkins and Halloween jokes reminded us that the holiday will soon be upon us.

Barbara Carpenter, Residents Council President, provided a report of the September Council Meeting. Director of Life Enrichment, Jon Schilling, promoted the upcoming Active Aging Week activities and also noted that Recreation and Transportation offices have been moved to the former Marketing offices in the Plaza South building. Joe Kane, Dining Services Director, spoke on the new Bistro menus and encouraged residents to communicate dining experiences through the comment cards and kiosks. Bylaws and Elections Chairman, Herb Komnick, distributed final guidelines for the elections for Building Representatives and promoted attendance at an informational session for current Representatives. Dining Services Chair, Pat Dellasanti, shared many positive and a few negative comments that the committee received. All responses are taken seriously. She advised that the Halloween dinner and party will be on October 31st. Bette Henriques, Employee Appreciation Chair, urged residents to participate in the 50/50 raffles and to remember that personal contributions to the Fund are greatly appreciated by the staff. October 31st is the final day to contribute to the 2018 Fund. Environment Chairman, Gerald Roseberry, reported that refrigerator magnets reminding us to use water wisely have been distributed and the committee continues to work to provide a more sustainable future for the campus. Roger Benson, Facilities Committee Chair, cited the new flooring in the Central Park buildings and noted that remodels will be underway in the Life Center and Care Center public bathrooms. There is new signage for the exterior trash and recycling rooms in the Central Park buildings and the new sign for the entrance is up and looking good. Fire safety is a continuing discussion item. Committees giving reports in October include Communications, Community Relations, Health and Wellness, Life Enrichment, Spiritual Life and the Welcome Committee. Senior Area Representatives, Nils Larson of Plaza View, Kathleen Hall of Plaza South and Hollister Newlin of Central Park South each reported about the good things happening in their buildings. Resident, Norma Buckwald, spoke about “Stitches of Love”, a dedicated group of both campus and outside volunteers who made new clothing, etc., for over 4,000 underprivileged children this year. Mim Hoover, Lifelong Learner’s Chairman thanked the council for their support of the HUB proposal and noted over 100 residents have already registered for fall classes. The next Residents Council Meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 10th at 2:00PM in the Life Center.

David Ragan called attention to the beautiful new Beatitudes Campus sign in front of the. A generous gift provided for this important addition to the Campus.

Success Matters Director, Jessica Meyer, introduced Courtney Ramos to residents. She is an occupational therapy student at A.T. Still University and will be interning with us for the next three months. Courtney said that she especially enjoys working with seniors and she is excited to be here on campus. Jessica also called attention to several Driver Safety Awareness events. First, Safety Checkups on Tuesday, October 16th or Thursday, October 18th from 1 to 2PM is offered in Agelink Great Hall. Occupation therapy students from NAU help with the workshop which helps to ensure that your driving skills are as good as you would like them to be. Also, Down the Road: Driving Decisions and Alternate Transportation Alternatives on Tuesday, October 23rd at 1PM in Agelink Great Hall. Also, the AARP Safer Driving Course is being offered on Thursday, November 8th from 9AM to 1:30PM in the Agelink Great Hall. The charge for this course is $15 if you are an AARP Member and $20 if you are not a member. Lunch is included. Finally, offered on Friday, November 16th is Carfit at Helen Drake Senior Center (27th Ave and Orangewood) from 9 to 11AM (drop in). At this event, you and your car are looked at to ensure that the mirrors are in the right position for you, the seat as well, etc. To register for the workshops in Agelink Great Hall and for additional details about any of these events, call Jessica Meyer at x16110.

Ruth Crowley, Chairman of the Health and Wellness Committee, discussed an upcoming workshop, “Listen to Your Heart: How to Make the Most of Your Blood Pressure Monitoring”. The workshop is Friday, October 12th at 2PM in Agelink Great Hall. Participants will have an opportunity to win a blood pressure gauge, learn about the latest blood pressure recommendations for older adults, and practice measuring your blood pressure for the most accurate results. There will be a presentation first and then small groups will practice. Jessica Meyer was able to obtain 3 blood pressure cuff monitors which will be used and then raffled off. Jessica is able to order these cuffs for residents at a good price.

Josephine Levy, Success Matters Resource Navigator, reminded residents that Medicare Open Enrollment is October 15th through December 7th. Ellen Dean, of Dean and Associates, will be on Campus to answer your Medicare questions on Mondays and Fridays, October 15th through November 30th. If you would like to meet with her to review your present plans and make sure they are the best ones for you, call (602) 266-9200 for an appointment.

Beatitudes Director of Dining Services, Joe Kane, discussed the changes in the Bistro menu. Many items stay permanently on the menu and many more change weekly, such as the variety of chili, the panini sandwich, the specialty sandwich and quesadilla, and specialty entree selection. The new Creative Station will serve everything from subs to Asian bowls to pizza to wings and much more. The menu is printed in the Roadrunner weekly. Joe asked that residents keep communicating through the comment cards and the kiosks. Tell Dining Services what you want and they will put it on the menu. Variety is the name of the game!! Town Hall attendees gave Joe a hand in appreciation for the new menus.

Life Enrichment Specialist, Monica De La Rosa, thanked residents for their spirited participation in Active Aging Week. A gift card and fish bowl was won by Earl Geller, a new resident. A thank you was extended to all of the many staff members who worked very hard to make the week a success. Monica announced a lunch outing on Friday, October 12, at 10:45AM to Joe’s Diner and another outing on Tuesday, October 16th at 10:45AM to Zookz. There will be a trip to Harkins Theatres and lunch at CC’s Pizza on Tuesday, October 23 at 10:00AM. Movies will be determined Thursday, October 18th and will be posted in the Recreation Room. For any of these trips, please call transportation at #12905 to reserve your seat on the bus. Check the Roadrunner for details about Veterans Week, Monday, November 5th through Sunday, November 11th.

Bill McGrue, Campus resident, informed attendees about the Singles group which is in the process of forming. The second round of the Let’s Get Acquainted Program will be a “Singles Mingle” on Monday, October 22nd at 6PM in Elaine’s Fine Dining. Refreshments will be provided and we hope to see you there. The concept is new, so you are invited to provide your feedback. Come have some fun at the first “Mingle”.

Mike Smallwood, Fitness Specialist, provided a Brainsavers Update. Class A on Tuesday and Friday at 11AM in the Recreation Room will be covering Leisure Activities and Socialization, Sleep Research, the History of Exercise, and Energy in Energy out. Class B which meets on Mondays and Wedsnesdays at 10AM in the Recreation Room will be covering Aquatic Fitness, Nutritional Supplements, and Connecting with the Past, Present and Future. Walk-ins are welcome. No signup or registration necessary. Beatitudes Campus has become a SilverSneakers location. “Fitness Foundations” and “Functional Fitness” classes will now be titled “Strength and Balance”, the SilverSneakers name for this type of exercise. In conjunction with SilverSneakers, we will now have an additional class “Walking Outdoors” which will meet every Tuesday and Thursday from 7:30 to 8:15AM beginning in the Recreation Room. Beatitudes residents will be able to attend all fitness classes as normal regardless whether they decide to become a SilverSneakers member or not. SilverSneakers will pay Beatitudes Campus $2.50 each time a SilverSneakers member participates in our class. Why??? Research has proven that insurance companies save millions of dollars in health care costs if they were to pay for older adults to participate in Fitness classes. Sign up at SilverSneakers.com or call Mike at x18482 and he will help you sign up. David noted that membership in SilverSneakers allows residents access to any SilverSneakers location. There are over 14,000 such places. It costs nothing to join as Medicare pays the costs. Mike also told residents that Mary Colosimo will be instructing the Water Aerobics class on Wednesdays and Fridays at 8:30AM. The Tai Chi class with Carol Ann meets at 11AM on Tuesdays and 11:45am on Thursdays in Agelink Classroom #1. The B-Fit winner for October is Lidia Runge.

David Ragan advised that the Arizona Republic newspaper is now available for sale at the Plaza Bistro for $2. Five copies have been ordered on a trial basis. Residents can become informed about the upcoming Arizona ballot measures on the November 6th ballot from the League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan group dedicated to voter education. The event will be held on October 16th at 10AM in the Life Center. Don’t forget the Power of the Purse on November 4th from 2 – 5PM in the Plaza Bistro and on the Central Park Mall (CM). Resident tickets are $45. Please call Barbara Wood in the Foundation Office if you want to purchase a ticket (#16136). On Thursday, October 25th at 7PM in the Life Center, PFLAG Phoenix and Beatitudes Campus invite you to a special screening of the movie, Real Boy. It is a documentary about a son’s transition and a mother’s transformation. David said that the video is a story of a genuine struggle, and is powerful and educational. Viewers will come away with a greater sensitivity to the subject. David also said that we have staff people on Campus who are exactly what this documentary is about.

Don’t forget the Hootenanny every Wednesday at 5:45PM. Bring your friends and enjoy the free entertainment. Sundaes with Dave will be on Wednesday, October 17th from 2 to 4PM in the Bistro. Get a free yogurt sundae and share your thoughts or just enjoy the sundae!

The next Town Hall will be November 7th at 2:00PM in the Life Center. Come and stay up-to-date on what is going on right here at Beatitudes Campus!

Entertaining Angels

Sun, October 7, 2018 Published by

Would you think your Chaplain a bit looney if I tell you I believe in angels? I believe that God is an active presence in the world and I am persuaded that angels are not just a figment of an overactive imagination.  Rather than it being an ever-shrinking area, the bounds of spiritual experience continue to expand for me as I get older. I have listened to an increasing number of people who hesitantly shared an other-worldly experience with me so I know those mystical experiences are real. Studies have found that 77% of people believe in angels. It seems like there has always been a fascination with the subject of angels. We have seen countless books, movies, television shows, songs, paintings and a host of other things that emphasize the existence and presence of heavenly beings. The collectibles industry in particular has gotten in on this big time, and there are all kinds of pictures,  statues, ornaments and other likenesses of angels to be found.

Angels are part of almost every religion and generally seem to have the role of messenger. Many traditions believe in guardian angels who serve to protect whichever person God assigns them to and present prayer to God on that person’s behalf. In the movie “It’s A Wonderful Life” an angel helps a compassionate but despairingly frustrated businessman by showing what life would have been like if he never existed. Remember Clarence? Every time a bell rings, an angel gets it’s wings. There are four visitations of angels associated with the birth of Jesus. The great musicians of the world have used angels in their compositions. Most familiar is probably from Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel, When at Night I Go to Sleep, fourteen angels watch do keep.  Handel includes an aria with these words: “Angels, ever bright and fair, take, oh take me to your care.” And children love the spiritual, All Night, All Day, angels watching over me my Lord.

The book of Hebrews says, “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” The angels around us may not look like what we expect. We never know to whom we are talking, whom we are welcoming or turning away, to whom we are offering a much needed embrace or a cold shoulder, for the strangers who come into our lives come in many different shapes, sizes, colors, and conditions.*

Active Aging Year

Sun, October 7, 2018 Published by

It was so fun to celebrate Active Aging Week like we did.  The weeklong events were fun and the culmination of the Street Fair down Central Park Mall was a fiesta and featuring some of the talented crafters and artists among our residents.  But truth be told, every week is active aging week at Beatitudes Campus.  As a matter of fact, it is Active Aging Year at Beatitudes Campus every year.

The International Council on Active Aging wanted the week to challenge society’s diminished expectations of aging by showing that, regardless of age or health conditions, adults over 50 can live as fully as possible in all areas of life—physical, social, spiritual, emotional, intellectual, vocational and environmental. Any given week, all you have to do is look around and you will see those diminished expectations burst before your very eyes.

Look at all the resident run efforts and programs and one quickly sees that nothing could be further from the truth if one thinks that seniors in this senior living community don’t have high expectations of themselves and their abilities to make a difference.  You residents started a campus wide recycling program and continue to guide its success.  You started the Beatitudes Campus Center for Lifelong Learners, now having offered almost 200 classes and enrolling 150 or more each semester.  You serve on Residents Council committees, design and contribute from everything like recreational outings and events to health and wellness programs.  The fitness classes are overflowing and the Fitness Center is rarely empty.  During the summer months, and even in the winter, the folk in the pool are always making waves. 

And it doesn’t stop there!  I am amazed at all of the residents who are volunteering for non-profits off Campus, and with our CAREcorps program even more are volunteering on Campus.  You residents teach new games to each other, start Dart Clubs, run the Pottery Studio and facilitate heady endeavors like Science and Spirituality.  You help in the Gift Shop, run the Beatitudes Backstreet Boutique through the Auxiliary and till the Beatitudes Community Garden making it the envy of every other Life Plan Community. You sing, dance and plan events for your floors and buildings, drawing our community closer and closer together.  When a new resident moves in, you cannot wait to send another welcoming resident to unleash the radical hospitality that makes this community shine.  You volunteer with the schools and teach in our English Language Assistance program (resident run) giving our immigrant brothers and sisters a chance at a better life.

I know I speak for all of us who are fortunate enough to be able to work and serve at Beatitudes Campus when I say that you all are paving the way for the rest of us and inspire us every day.  I only wish your contemporaries knew what you know and do with your lives and see that, if they think a community like ours is for “old people”, then the only thing “old” is their thinking.  You have created a vibrant, energetic, inspiring and anything but inactive community. 

It’s Active Aging Year this year and, thanks to you, will be every year hereafter.*

The Power of Women

Mon, September 17, 2018 Published by

“Women have a unique power of being able to look at the world’s problems and discover solutions that transform lives and make the world a better place.”

We will be able to witness first-hand how true that sentiment is at the Power of Women: Women, Wine and Conversation event, which will be held Tuesday, September 25th from 5-7PM in the Life Center, where we will shine a light on four amazing women who are shaping the Phoenix community. Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams, Children’s Museum of Phoenix President and CEO Kate Wells, our very own President and CEO Michelle Just, and Letitia Frye, auctioneer, author and speaker, who will moderate the panel. They will be discussing their life journeys – the ups and downs and in-betweens – and talk about how connection and support from their community has been transformational in their lives.

Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams

Chief Williams has served the community for nearly three decades in law enforcement – 22 of those years were serving Phoenix. She brings a unique perspective to her role, as a law enforcement leader, a wife, a mom and a daughter. Chief Williams brings all of those lenses to the police department to create an atmosphere of accountability and transparency.

Children’s Museum of Phoenix President and CEO Kate Wells

Kate Wells co-founded the Children’s Museum of Phoenix 20 years ago with a group of moms and friends to create a learning environment through play for children and the adults who care for them. From this grassroots effort, the Children’s Museum is now rated among the Top 10 in the country. Kate, too, wears many hats as a mom, daughter and wife. Kate’s mom, Eileen Bell, is a Beatitudes Campus resident.

Beatitudes Campus President and CEO, Michelle Just

Michelle Just, as we all know, is the amazing leader of Beatitudes Campus. But we may not all know how her professional and personal journeys intersect in her many roles as a leader, a daughter, a sister and a friend. Michelle has made enormous contributions nationally in the field of aging services.

Letitia Frye, Auctioneer, Author and Speaker

Letitia Frye has made a big impact on the Phoenix nonprofit community, having raised more than $400 million for nonprofits by doing “her thing” as an auctioneer. You have seen her in action at Power of the Purse! Every year, Letitia becomes more motivated to give back, in part due to the many personal challenges that face her.

At Power of Women: Women, Wine and Conversation, you will have the opportunity to meet these amazing women who are leading the way for a better community. These women are our thought leaders who have made a difference. They are our mentors and yet they learn from others, too. These are the women who encourage us to get involved and work to influence positive change.

At Power of Women, you can hear these leaders talk about their passion in shaping our Phoenix community and find out first-hand how they are making a difference.

We invite you to join us at Power of Women and be part of the Women, Wine and Conversation. Tickets are $25 (wine and appetizers included) and can be purchased by calling me (Barbara Wood at x16136) or online at BeatitudesFoundation.org. Please call me if you have any questions. I hope to see you there!*


Blessed Be the Work of Our Hands

Sun, September 2, 2018 Published by

This is the week in our country set aside for Labor Day, that time when we are to honor the labor movement in America and reflect upon work and its significance.  My first job was working in the accounting department of a large law firm in San Francisco and then out of college I worked as a cast technician in an orthopedist’s office.  After much discernment I came to understand that with the gifts and skills that God has given me my work was to be as a minister.  Each of us devotes our life to certain labors, there are those who work in offices and warehouses, in stores or factories, those who work in the home raising a family; those who buy and sell; those who work by strength of arm or skill of hand; those who teach and those who govern.  Every day I see the laborers here on campus cutting grass, painting walls, serving food, emptying garbage, washing laundry, answering phones, holding hands, teaching classes and I am reminded that the psalmist prayed: “Bless the work of our hands, O Lord.” The work of our hands doesn’t stop when we retire for we still labor to care for others, care for the earth, and live out our God-given purpose.  Every day I see your labors serving others and serving this community in countless ways.  This week let us show honor and appreciation for the work of the hands around us, and let us also be thoughtful of those who are unable to work through disability or unemployment. May the Holy Spirit bless all our labors. 

Blessed be the hands that touch young lives – babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.

Blessed be the hands that embrace others with compassion.

Blessed be the hands that administer medicine, give aspirin, bandage wounds.

Blessed be the hands that prepare meals.

Blessed be the hands that wash dishes, clean floors, arrange flowers.

Blessed be the hands that anoint the sick and offer blessings.

Blessed be the hands that grow stiff with age.

Blessed be the hands that comfort the dying and have held the dead.

Blessed be the hands that capture a memory in art and poetry and song.

Blessed be the hands that guide the young.

Blessed be the hands that greet strangers.

Blessed be the hands that learn the way of justice.

Blessed be the hands that fill out applications, write papers, carry books, send e-mails.

Blessed be the hands that receive and sort information, and hands that determine budgets.

Blessed be the hands; we hold the future in these hands.

Blessed be our hands, for they are the work of your hands, O Holy One. AMEN.*

A New Day is Dawning!

Sun, September 2, 2018 Published by

I hope the excitement swept you up if you were able to attend the Special Joint Town Hall of staff and residents where I was able to share how a new day is dawning for our Campus Community. It was standing room only in our Everett Luther Life Center and, for good reason, as we are assuring that our mission and purpose is firmly secure for the next 50 years as we break ground in November of this year on the first phase of our redevelopment plan. Dr. Nelson, and the Church of the Beatitudes, UCC had the courage to establish  Beatitudes Campus 50 years ago, and 50 years later, we are talking about the next 50 years.

Let me start with the news that got the greatest ovation. A little before the coming New Year, the beloved old Garden Apartments are coming down. You have made it clear that this is one of your number one hopes for our community and I am pleased to finally be able to make this happen as part of our redevelopment plan. The Board and the Administration showed a lot of courage, as well as blood, sweat and tears in putting together this plan. Every process has been thought through, causing at least twelve variations of the plan over the last three years. The ultimate goal of the redevelopment is the renovating our vintage buildings—Plaza North and South, Plaza View and the Health Care Center as we expand to new living areas as well. The plan was taken and approved by the Board of Directors on June 18, 2018.

This master plan allows for five separate financings and decision points which will each involve Tax Exempt Financing. This assures there will be no financial burden to you, our residents. Changes in the market, economic outlook, etc., can be considered and changes made at each of the decision points. The plan will call for welcoming approximately 250 new residents and 70 new staff team members. It also allows for the renovation of Plaza North and South without the buildings being occupied—another aspect I was committed to figuring out so as to minimize any disruption to your lifestyles.

What you really want to know, though, what’s the timeline? Please keep in mind all of this is still subject to potentially significant changes.

Phase #1 includes the building of 34 new Patio Homes along Myrtle Avenue and 17th Drive, and the demolition of the Garden Apartments. This work will take 12 months, beginning in November of 2018 and being completed in October of 2019. To date, we have pre-leased 25 of the 34 homes to be built. That’s more than we needed to trigger our first financing.

Phase #2 consists of building 90 Courtyard Apartments where the Garden Apartments currently reside. The timeline runs from June of 2020 to December of 2021, a period of 19 months. Also, 132 new rental units will be built on the East side of the campus. This timeline runs from June of 2020 to November of 2021, a period of 18 months. Both buildings will have ground level parking space beneath them with apartments beginning on the second floor. In addition, the Plaza View and Plaza Bistro kitchens will be combined. This will take place from February of 2021 to December of 2021, a period of 11 months. This will be the main kitchen and the Town Plaza will host Buckwald’s Arizona Grille, Plaza Bistro, Elaine’s Fine Dining and a Coffee & Bar all as a one-stop experience of variety. Some of the other amenities currently in Town Plaza will move to other spaces, including the Nelson Administration Building and the new Courtyard Apartment homes.

Phase #3 includes the building of 54 more Courtyard Apartments from January of 2022 to March of 2023, a period of 15 months. In addition, the Plaza North Apartment Building will be completely renovated between December of 2021 and November of 2022, a period of 12months. Plaza North residents will be moved into the brand new East side rental units. I know you are wondering, but your monthly service fee will remain at the same rates you would expect if you had stayed in your old apartment.

Phase #4 consists of renovating the Plaza South Building into an Assisted Living Building. This will be accomplished between December of 2022 and November of 2023. This will greatly enlarge our Assisted Living space from 92 studio rooms to 130 assisted living apartments Plaza South residents will be moved into the newly renovated Plaza North Building. Again, your monthly service fee will remain at the same rates you would expect if you had stayed in your old apartment.

Phase #5 includes renovation of Plaza View to become the Health and Memory Center. This work will be done from January of 2024 to November of 2024, a period of 11 months. We will be expanding our early memory support program from 29 to 48 rooms. Once complete, residents living in the Health Care Center will be relocated to the significantly renovated Health and Memory Center. Also, the renovation of the 3rd and 4th floors of the Health Care Center into Administration Space will be accomplished between November of 2024 and May of 2025, a period of 7 months. The first two floors of the Health Care Center will be utilized for resident amenities if needed.

This is a historic time in the life of Beatitudes Campus. Over 50 years ago, Dr. Culver Nelson and the Church of the Beatitudes, United Church of Christ, had a vision that called for courage, risk, faith and commitment to see that vision become a reality that would one day make life better for the people it served. Today that same spirit of courage, risk, faith and commitment to a this vision will assure that the next 50 years will continue to be everything that Beatitudes Campus’ long held mission, values and purpose has been about since day one. If there was a time when that was in question (and there was), I am proud to say that such a time is no more. A new day is dawning for Beatitudes Campus.*

Leaning Back in Our Seats

Sun, August 26, 2018 Published by

Flying back from my vacation this week I saw three kinds of behavior when the seatbelt light was turned off. Some people pushed their seat back immediately with an air of entitlement. Some sat bolt upright throughout the journey. Others appeared to wait until they were ready to go to sleep, and before reclining looked over the back of their seat and sometimes spoke to the person behind, before deciding what to do.

An aircraft cabin is a microcosm, a sealed community brought together for a few hours. It is a snapshot of life, a good study of our increasingly individualized society dominated by a push for the priority of individual rights over those of a larger group. I spent eleven hours musing on this while my legs were pinned against the reclined seat in front of me. I could almost hear the person in front thinking “I can push my seat back because I have a right to do so: if it cramps you, then pass on the pain and push your seat back into the person behind.” As the British would say ‘I’m alright Jack, so pull up the ladder’. In other words; I’m okay- never mind the rest!

Our rights of determination and ability to make independent choices and are important ones, however God didn’t create a world filled with the diversity and wonder of humanity for us to ignore each other, or for us to focus only on enforcing our own individual rights to the detriment of others.

Its difficult though isn’t it. I will admit it. I too reclined my seat, and by doing so probably squashed the person behind me. Thinking beyond the example of the airplane however, it is important for us to all recognize that the lives we lead and the choices we make have an impact on others. When our choice is one of whether to recline our plane seat, the impact is minor, however the crisis comes when we apply that same logic to issues that affect our wider society or global community.

There are often a whole host of reasons that we narrate in order to convince ourselves and others that we are helpless to make a choice which is mindful of the needs of others. We have all played semantics when it comes to loving our neighbor, and living our lives in ways that is mindful of others. It is easy to say “Jesus says that we are to love our neighbor, but he wouldn’t have said that if he had met my neighbor!”

How many times do we simply refuse to look at the effects and impacts of the decisions we make, simply because it is easier to do so? I am sure that many of you have read in the news recently stories of huge islands of plastic waste floating around the world’s oceans, and have heard estimates stating that 100 million marine animals die each year because of that pollution. Has there been an uprising of the masses in response to such a shameful failure in our stewardship of creation? Or is it easier to look the other way, regardless of the impact that our choices?

We all have different ideas about how and why we came to share this world. Perhaps we can all agree that if we see other human beings not simply as an obstacle to the full exercise of our own rights, our relationship with others can be the starting point for our own spiritual and ethical development. Let’s not simply lean back in our seats regardless.*

Stay Tuned

Sun, August 26, 2018 Published by

As you all know by now, to save you from potential substantial increases in costs, the cable television provider on campus is being converted to DirecTV. This change will also significantly enhance the programming included with the tier of service provided as part of your residency on campus. The channel array will now include a 150+ channel package along with all of DirecTV’s premium service packages (HBO & Cinemax Package, Showtime – Movie Channel – FLIX Triple Play package, Starz Encore Super Pack, and more). The service will include one high-definition cable box. Additional high-definition cable boxes can be provided for $5 per month and a digital video recorder (DVR) can be added to your service for $10 per month. There is no charge for the programming regardless of the number of television locations you have in your apartment, just the equipment charges listed above if you want a DVR or a second TV attached to the service.

We are doing all we can to add more options that to date are not available to us, such as music, Pac 12 Sports, Major League Baseball and NFL packages. Because these cannot be ordered individually per apartment, we must negotiate, if available at all, a bulk package covering the entire campus. I will keep you posted on our progress.

As a reminder, for those of you that are purchasing enhanced television services from Cox, you will likely be receiving a letter directly from Cox explaining that they will no longer be able to provide these services on campus. Don’t be alarmed by this, as it is because we will be redirecting the campus’ television infrastructure to the new DirecTV service.

One special note: for those of you who use a Cox email account, unless you are able to work out an agreement with Cox independently, it will, in time, become unavailable to you. Once DirectTV is installed in your apartment, the lines are no longer able to carry the Cox system. Please be prepared upon installation for how you will access your Cox email. In the event that Cox will not allow you to keep your Cox email address (usually for a fee), please put in a work order for IT to assist in setting up a free email account through Gmail, Yahoo or another service depending upon your preference. This will require you notifying all friends, family and businesses you want to be aware that your email is changing. We are sorry for this inconvenience. We will do all we can to support you with this change.

After DirectTV is installed campus-wide, a free WiFi system will be placed in every building for all internet users. When that time comes, we will assist you in getting you connected. The only change will be that you will no longer need to pay Cox or the campus for internet services—it’s free!

The implementation of the new service will take place building by building. There will be no interruptions in services. You will have access to your current Cox channels until the new DirecTV service is installed in your building. Watch the Community Channel 1960 for the latest updates on when you might be up next for the installation.

Once we have all adjusted to the new system, you should love the enhancements, here is hoping.*

Peace, David

August 2018 Town Hall Recap

Sun, August 19, 2018 Published by

Rev. David Ragan, Sr. VP of Resident Services, called the Town Hall to order at 2:15PM and welcomed residents. There were several residents who were attending Town Hall for the first time and David encouraged all residents to join us at Town Hall and catch up with what is happening here at the Beatitudes. The next Welcome Coffee will be held on Wednesday, August 22nd at 2:00PM in the Life Center. Come to meet and learn about our new friends on Campus. Residents watched a segment from The Gong Show featuring our own resident, Igor Glenn, performing as a “cowboy aviator”. Residents were also treated to a series of quotations by famous people. For example—“The secret of a good sermon is to have a good beginning and a good ending; and to have the two as close together as possible” (George Burns) or “We could certainly slow the aging process down if it had to work its way through Congress” (Will Rogers).
David introduced Michelle Just, President and CEO, and congratulated her for being named as one of the Most Influential Women of 2018 by the Arizona Business Magazine. Michelle talked about an upcoming Power of Women panel to be held on Tuesday, September 25th from 5-7PM in the Life Center. The panel will include Kate Wells, CEO of Children’s Museum of Phoenix, Chief Jerri Williams, Phoenix Chief of Police, and our own Michelle Just. The panel will be moderated by Letitia Frye, our Power of the Purse auctioneer. The Power of the Purse will be held on November 4th with a goal of $125,000. Sponsorships have already brought in $92,000 toward that goal. Title Sponsors are Weitz Construction and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona. Michelle noted that there will be a Special Campus-Wide Town Hall on Wednesday, August 29th from 2:00 to 3:00PM in the Life Center to provide residents and staff with the latest redevelopment update. There will be a question and answer session after the presentation. Last, but not least, Michelle congratulated David Ragan on being accepted to the eleventh class of the LeadingAge Leadership Academy. The Academy consists of 45 leaders across the nation coming together to learn and share ideas.
Barbara Carpenter, President of the Residents Council, reported on the June Council Meeting. David Ragan opened the meeting and reported that the patio home pre-sales are going well, reminding residents of the opportunity to earn money through successful referrals to Marketing. By-Laws and Elections Chair, Herb Komnick, said the committee is recommending two by-law changes, one concerning filling vacancies on the council and the other opening the choices for secretary. A vote will be taken at the August meeting. Dining Services Chair, Pat Dellisanti announced an upcoming Western theme lunch in August and Halloween dinner on October 31st. Her committee looks at each and every comment card and works to improve the dining experience for all of us. The committee bid farewell to Chef Brian Rocco and a welcome back to Chef Cosmin Barbu. Bette Henriques, Employee Appreciation Chair, said the committee has been holding 50/50 raffles at theme dinners and will be promoting the fund from now until October 31st. Environment Committee Chair, Gerald Roseberry, said that a number of the Environment Committee toured the SRP marketing facility to learn ways we can conserve our water. He asked residents to look for “water tips” in the Roadrunner and on the Community Channel. Facilities Committee Chair, Roger Benson, reported on many new campus improvements including the Administration building restrooms and new carpeting for the Central Park buildings. A new entrance sign is coming soon and will include lighting for the flag. Senior Area Representatives, Nils Larson of Plaza View, Kathleen Hall of Plaza South, and Hollister Newlin of Central Park South reported about the things happening in their buildings, activities they are doing and events coming up. Please support your building representatives and committees in their work by attending our meetings. The next Residents Council Meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 12th at 2:00PM in the Life Center.
Andrew Moore, Associate Chaplain, discussed a retreat to be held on Saturday, September 15th from 10:00AM – 4:00PM in the Life Center. The retreat will allow residents to rest, recuperate, learn, grow, and come together in worship. Lunch and materials will be provided, therefore reservations are required. Please call Kimberly Bravo at 18465 by September 1st to reserve your place.
Success Matters Resource Navigator, Josephine Levy, told about a “Going Places?” session to be held on Tuesday, August 7th at 1:00PM in AG1. Josephine will be providing the basics on GoGo Grandparents and other off-Campus transportation options. She also will be providing a workshop on the ABC’s (and D) of Medicare on Tuesday, August 21st at 10:00AM in Agelink Great Hall. Josephine said that Medicare is not as complicated as it might seem. She volunteers with the Area Agency on Aging answering telephone questions about Medicare, so bring your questions to the workshop.
Dining Services Director, Joe Kane, introduced our new Executive Chef, Cosmin Barbu. Chef Barbu started here at the Beatitudes in the Care Center, working up to Sous Chef before leaving for an Executive Chef position. Dining Services is very happy to welcome Chef Barbu back to the Beatitudes as Executive Chef. Joe also encouraged the use of the kiosks for commenting on dining services. Comments made on the kiosks go directly to Joe Kane via email. The Kitchen Tours continue through September and provide a great example of what is done each day. Residents were encouraged to sign up in the Bistro to take the tour on Saturdays at 2:00PM. Joe announced that Ben Ennis, Events Set-up Person, is now working for the Grounds Department, and he welcomed Asmir Smakovic who will be our new Events Set-up Person. Asmir has previously worked in the Bistro and as a Diet Aide in the Care Center.
David Ragan announced that DirecTV will be coming to the Beatitudes in September. Reasons for the change include—DirecTV is the highest ranked cable TV provider; their top tier service which includes all the movie channels will be provided at no extra cost; two drops per apartment and the DirecTV boxes will be provided at no extra cost; DVR’s will be available for those who want them for approximately $10 per month; and the change should result in a significant monthly savings if you are using more services from our current provider. In addition, we will be transitioning to Wi-Fi at no cost to residents. A letter will be sent to residents with more information. A door-to-door survey will be taken to ascertain how you are set up and what services you currently have.
Life Enrichment Specialist, Monica De La Rosa, discussed the volunteer tutoring program at Maryland Elementary School, located at 24th Avenue and Maryland. Leroy Calbom, who has headed this program for several years, talked about how rewarding the work is for volunteers. Seeing young children learn and grow is exciting. Students at Maryland Elementary speak 28 different languages and come from a variety of backgrounds. You can tutor students individually or in a group on a subject of your choice. Fingerprint clearance is provided for free by the District and a Maryland School representative will call and connect you with a teacher and student(s). If you are interested in taking part in this program, Volunteer Applications are available in the Life Enrichment office. Monica introduced Sherwin Block, Interim Chairman of the Life Enrichment Committee, who discussed lunch outings to different restaurants in the Valley. They include Black Bear Diner, Bobby Q’s, Kiss the Cook, Olive Garden, Red Lobster and others. On Friday, August 10th, the lunch outing will be to Macayo’s Mexican Restaurant and on Tuesday, August 21st, we will be going to the Cracker Barrel. The kick-off at Chompies was a big success. Look for information in the Roadrunner and on the monthly calendar. Didi Cruz, Life Enrichment Specialist, said there is a Western theme Lunch planned for Saturday, August 11th in the Life Center. Doors open at 11 AM. Short and Sweet will be providing entertainment and the Employee Appreciation Committee will be hosting a 50/50 raffle. Tickets can be purchased at the Bistro for $11.50. Didi also discussed a new program which aims to aid single seniors in finding a good friend on campus. The kick-off for this “Let’s Get Acquainted” program will be held in Elaine’s on Monday, August 20th at 6:00PM. Come and share your feedback on how we can improve the program!
David noted that the Ceramics Studio has ceramics for sale and when purchased they can be taken to the Studio for firing in the kiln. The Studio is open Thursday mornings at 10:00AM and will be open more often if there are more residents interested in ceramics. The cost for ceramic sugar-style skulls for Halloween will be $16 each, or two for $30.
Lynn Leonard, Lifelong Learning Committee member, told residents about the Second Annual Film Festival to be held in the Life Center on August 23rd and 24th. There will be four movies, two on Thursday and two on Friday. Free popcorn will be provided, and, if you wish, you may buy a lunch ticket in the Bistro and enjoy a buffet lunch between the movies. A drawing will be held for a free Harkins movie pass. Watch for more information in the Roadrunner.
Michael Smallwood, Fitness Specialist, provided residents with a Brainsavers and Workout Wellness Class update. He said that the classes are now switching to a new quarter and classes are structured so that new participants can get a fresh start in either class. Participants can choose a class that best fits their schedule. The third quarter class is on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10 to 11AM. The fourth quarter class is on Tuesdays and Fridays from 11AM to noon. The class is not too demanding with one-third of the class dealing with physical fitness. Some topics to be covered include Hydration and the Brain; Maintaining Healthy Bones; Cultivating Gratitude; Nutritional Supplements; Sleep Research Update; Food for Thinking; and Connecting the Past, Present and Future. There is plenty of room in both classes so feel free to join anytime. The July and August B-Fit Winners are George Krekeler and Nils Larson. Mike asked if any of the residents were members of the Silver Sneakers Program. If so, please contact Mike at 18482 or [email protected]
Rod Bailey, Sr. Vice-President of Marketing and Sales, welcomed Jaime Sackrison as our Senior Community Outreach Ambassador. Jaime will be taking the message of what we do out and about in the community. Jaime is from Wisconsin and she has a great deal of experience in community and home care. Jonathan Gibbs is now a Residency Counselor.
David reminded residents to tune in to Channel 1960 to learn all about what is going on, and gain further information about the ceramics studio. Don’t forget to go to the Hootenanny each and every Wednesday evening at 5:45PM in the Life Center. Bring your friends and enjoy the free musical entertainment. Our heartfelt thanks go to Gregory’s Fresh Market for bringing their produce to us, and also for the volunteering that they do for seniors throughout the community. As always, Wednesday Sundaes with Dave will take place on Wednesday, September 19th from 2:00 to 4:00PM in the Plaza Bistro. Enjoy a free yogurt sundae and share your thoughts with David.
The next Town Hall will be held on September 5th at 2:00PM in the Life Center. We hope to see you there!!!

Rev. David Ragan, Sr. VP of Resident Services, called the Town Hall to order at 2:15PM and welcomed residents.  There were several residents who were attending Town Hall for the first time and David encouraged all residents to join us at Town Hall and catch up with what is happening here at the Beatitudes.  The next Welcome Coffee will be held on Wednesday, August 22nd at 2:00PM in the Life Center.  Come to meet and learn about our new friends on Campus.  Residents watched a segment from The Gong Show featuring our own resident, Igor Glenn, performing as a “cowboy aviator”.  Residents were also treated to a series of quotations by famous people.  For example—“The secret of a good sermon is to have a good beginning and a good ending; and to have the two as close together as possible” (George Burns) or “We could certainly slow the aging process down if it had to work its way through Congress” (Will Rogers).

David introduced Michelle Just, President and CEO, and congratulated her for being named as one of the Most Influential Women of 2018 by the Arizona Business Magazine. Michelle talked about an upcoming Power of Women panel to be held on Tuesday, September 25th from 5-7PM in the Life Center.  The panel will include Kate Wells, CEO of Children’s Museum of Phoenix, Chief Jerri Williams, Phoenix Chief of Police, and our own Michelle Just.  The panel will be moderated by Letitia Frye, our Power of the Purse auctioneer. The Power of the Purse will be held on November 4th with a goal of $125,000.  Sponsorships have already brought in $92,000 toward that goal.  Title Sponsors are Weitz Construction and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona.  Michelle noted that there will be a Special Campus-Wide Town Hall on Wednesday, August 29th from 2:00 to 3:00PM in the Life Center to provide residents and staff with the latest redevelopment update.  There will be a question and answer session after the presentation.  Last, but not least, Michelle congratulated David Ragan on being accepted to the eleventh class of the LeadingAge Leadership Academy.  The Academy consists of 45 leaders across the nation coming together to learn and share ideas.

Barbara Carpenter, President of the Residents Council, reported on the June Council Meeting.  David Ragan opened the meeting and reported that the patio home pre-sales are going well, reminding residents of the opportunity to earn money through successful referrals to Marketing.  By-Laws and Elections Chair, Herb Komnick, said the committee is recommending two by-law changes, one concerning filling vacancies on the council and the other opening the choices for secretary.  A vote will be taken at the August meeting.  Dining Services Chair, Pat Dellisanti announced an upcoming Western theme lunch in August and Halloween dinner on October 31st.  Her committee looks at each and every comment card and works to improve the dining experience for all of us.  The committee bid farewell to Chef Brian Rocco and a welcome back to Chef Cosmin Barbu.  Bette Henriques, Employee Appreciation Chair, said the committee has been holding 50/50 raffles at theme dinners and will be promoting the fund from now until October 31st.  Environment Committee Chair, Gerald Roseberry, said that a number of the Environment Committee toured the SRP marketing facility to learn ways we can conserve our water.  He asked residents to look for “water tips” in the Roadrunner and on the Community Channel. Facilities Committee Chair, Roger Benson, reported on many new  campus improvements including the Administration building restrooms and new carpeting for the Central Park buildings.  A new entrance sign is coming soon and will include lighting for the flag.  Senior Area Representatives, Nils Larson of Plaza View, Kathleen Hall of Plaza South, and Hollister Newlin of Central Park South reported about the things happening in their buildings, activities they are doing and events coming up.  Please support your building representatives and committees in their work by attending our meetings.  The next Residents Council Meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 12th at 2:00PM in the Life Center.

Andrew Moore, Associate Chaplain, discussed a retreat to be held on Saturday, September 15th from 10:00AM – 4:00PM in the Life Center.  The retreat will allow residents to rest, recuperate, learn, grow, and come together in worship.  Lunch and materials will be provided, therefore reservations are required.  Please call Kimberly Bravo at 18465 by September 1st to reserve your place.

Success Matters Resource Navigator, Josephine Levy, told about a “Going Places?” session to be held on Tuesday, August 7th at 1:00PM in AG1.  Josephine will be providing the basics on GoGo Grandparents and other off-Campus transportation options.  She also will be providing a workshop on the ABC’s (and D)  of Medicare on Tuesday, August 21st at 10:00AM in Agelink Great Hall. Josephine said that Medicare is not as complicated as it might seem.  She volunteers with the Area Agency on Aging answering telephone questions about Medicare, so bring your questions to the workshop.

Dining Services Director, Joe Kane, introduced our new Executive Chef, Cosmin Barbu.  Chef Barbu started here at the Beatitudes in the Care Center, working up to Sous Chef before leaving for an Executive Chef position.  Dining Services is very happy to welcome Chef Barbu back to the Beatitudes as Executive Chef.   Joe also encouraged the use of the kiosks for commenting on dining services.  Comments made on the kiosks go directly to Joe Kane via email.  The Kitchen Tours continue through September and provide a great example of what is done each day.  Residents were encouraged to sign up in the Bistro to take the tour on Saturdays at 2:00PM. Joe announced that Ben Ennis, Events Set-up Person, is now working for the Grounds Department, and he welcomed Asmir Smakovic who will be our new Events Set-up Person.  Asmir has previously worked in the Bistro and as a Diet Aide in the Care Center.

David Ragan announced that DirecTV will be coming to the Beatitudes in September.  Reasons for the change include—DirecTV is the highest ranked cable TV provider; their top tier service which includes all the movie channels will be provided at no extra cost; two drops per apartment and the DirecTV boxes will be provided at no extra cost; DVR’s will be available for those who want them for approximately $10 per month; and the change should result in a significant monthly savings if you are using more services from our current provider. In addition, we will be transitioning to Wi-Fi at no cost to residents.  A letter will be sent to residents with more information.  A door-to-door survey will be taken to ascertain how you are set up and what services you currently have.

Life Enrichment Specialist, Monica De La Rosa, discussed the volunteer tutoring program at Maryland Elementary School, located at 24th Avenue and Maryland.  Leroy Calbom, who has headed this program for several years, talked about how rewarding the work is for volunteers. Seeing young children learn and grow is exciting.  Students at Maryland Elementary speak 28 different languages and come from a variety of backgrounds. You can tutor students individually or in a group on a subject of your choice.  Fingerprint clearance is provided for free by the District and a Maryland School representative will call and connect you with a teacher and student(s). If you are interested in taking part in this program, Volunteer Applications are available in the Life Enrichment office.  Monica introduced Sherwin Block, Interim Chairman of the Life Enrichment Committee, who discussed lunch outings to different restaurants in the Valley.  They include Black Bear Diner, Bobby Q’s, Kiss the Cook, Olive Garden, Red Lobster and others.  On Friday, August 10th, the lunch outing will be to Macayo’s Mexican Restaurant and on Tuesday, August 21st, we will be going to the Cracker Barrel. The kick-off at Chompies was a big success.  Look for information in the Roadrunner and on the monthly calendar. Didi Cruz, Life Enrichment Specialist, said there is a Western theme Lunch planned for Saturday, August 11th in the Life Center.  Doors open at 11 AM.  Short and Sweet will be providing entertainment and the Employee Appreciation Committee will be hosting a 50/50 raffle.  Tickets can be purchased at the Bistro for $11.50.  Didi also discussed a new program which aims to aid single seniors in finding a good friend on campus.  The kick-off for this “Let’s Get Acquainted” program will be held in Elaine’s on Monday, August 20th at 6:00PM.  Come and share your feedback on how we can improve the program!

David noted that the Ceramics Studio has ceramics for sale and when purchased they can be taken to the Studio for firing in the kiln.  The Studio is open Thursday mornings at 10:00AM and will be open more often if there are more residents interested in ceramics. The cost for ceramic sugar-style skulls for Halloween will be $16 each, or two for $30.

Lynn Leonard, Lifelong Learning  Committee member, told residents about the Second Annual Film Festival to be held in the Life Center on August 23rd and 24th.  There will be four movies, two on Thursday and two on Friday.  Free popcorn will be provided, and, if you wish, you may buy a lunch ticket in the Bistro and enjoy a buffet lunch between the movies.  A drawing will be held for a free Harkins movie pass.  Watch for more information in the Roadrunner.

Michael Smallwood, Fitness Specialist, provided residents with a Brainsavers and Workout Wellness Class update.  He said that the classes are now switching to a new quarter and classes are structured so that new participants can get a fresh start in either class. Participants can choose a class that best fits their schedule. The third quarter class is on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10 to 11AM.  The fourth quarter class is on Tuesdays and Fridays from 11AM to noon.  The class is not too demanding with one-third of the class dealing with physical fitness.  Some topics to be covered include Hydration and the Brain; Maintaining Healthy Bones; Cultivating Gratitude; Nutritional Supplements; Sleep Research Update; Food for Thinking; and Connecting the Past, Present and Future. There is plenty of room in both classes so feel free to join anytime. The July and August B-Fit Winners are George Krekeler and Nils Larson.  Mike asked if any of the residents were members of the Silver Sneakers Program. If so, please contact Mike at 18482 or [email protected]

Rod Bailey, Sr. Vice-President of Marketing and Sales, welcomed Jaime Sackrison as our Senior Community Outreach Ambassador.  Jaime will be taking the message of what we do out and about in the community. Jaime is from Wisconsin and she has a great deal of experience in community and home care.  Jonathan Gibbs is now a Residency Counselor.

David reminded residents to tune in to Channel 1960 to learn all about what is going on, and gain further information about the ceramics studio.  Don’t forget to go to the Hootenanny each and every Wednesday evening at 5:45PM in the Life Center.  Bring your friends and enjoy the free musical entertainment.  Our heartfelt thanks go to Gregory’s Fresh Market for bringing their produce to us, and also for the volunteering that they do for seniors throughout the community. As always, Wednesday Sundaes with Dave will take place on Wednesday, September 19th from 2:00 to 4:00PM in the Plaza Bistro.  Enjoy a free yogurt sundae and share your thoughts with David.

The next Town Hall will be held on September 5th at 2:00PM in the Life Center.  We hope to see you there!!!

Positive Aging

Sun, August 19, 2018 Published by

Positive Aging: Changing Your Mindset About Growing Older

What is your attitude about the aging process? Do you view it as a positive rite of passage or a negative phenomenon that must simply be endured?

I recently read an inspiring article written in 2017 by oil tycoon T. Boone Pickens in which he reflects on his life’s “fourth quarter.” Having suffered several strokes in the past few years, which necessitated extensive speech therapy, and a bad fall that required hospitalization, he acknowledges that he is facing his own mortality.

Yet, at 90 years old, Pickens remains invigorated by life. “Be the eternal optimist who is excited to see what the next decade will bring,” he advises. “I remain excited every day, engaged and thrilled in the office and on the road. I thrive on that activity, and I’m going to stick to it, no matter the setback.”

Pickens’ attitude is inspirational by almost anyone’s standards, yet not everyone views the aging process as positively as he.

How ageism distorts views on aging

Much has been written about ageism. It’s a hot topic and a societal issue that some say is becoming more endemic than even sexism or racism.

The World Values Survey (WVS), which is an ongoing research project conducted by social scientists around the globe, asked over 83,000 people of all age groups in 57 countries about their feelings on aging. The World Health Organization (WHO) analyzed the WVS data and found that 60 percent of survey respondents said that they don’t think older people are respected. Interestingly, the lowest levels of respect for older generations were reported in higher income countries. These negative attitudes about aging and older people reflected in the WVS can have a significantly detrimental impact on the physical and mental health of seniors. A 2002 study by psychology researchers in Yale University’s department of epidemiology and public health looked at the long-term health consequences of ageism on seniors. The researchers determined that age discrimination actually has the potential power to shorten seniors’ lives. The Yale study followed 660 seniors age 50 and older. Among the study group, seniors who held more positive views about the aging process actually lived 7.5 years longer than people who negatively perceived aging. Older people who perceive themselves as a burden to others view their very lives as less valuable, which in turn ups their risk for depression and social isolation, both of which have been shown to be “silent killers” for seniors.

The positive aging movement

Of course, some facets of a person’s health, good or bad, are genetic and thus out of their hands, but many aspects of health and the aging process in general are well within our control. However, as we age, “health” isn’t just about the absence of ailments. The concept of “positive aging,” also referred to as “healthy aging,” is achievable by every older person as we work to make better choices in the near-term to improve our lives in the long-term.

Positive aging is basically adopting a positive view of aging as a healthy, normal part of life. I see this happening is so many of our Beatitudes Campus clubs, service groups and our Life Long Learners program.  And it’s the mindset that you will do whatever is needed in order to continue doing the things that you love and are important to you as you grow older. Just like T. Boone Pickens working hard to regain his speech after his strokes and getting back to work — in a 60-year career he still loves — after his fall.

Tips for positive aging

Dr. Manfred Diehl, professor of human development and family studies at Colorado State University, focuses on successful and healthy aging. He has done extensive research on adults’ perceptions and understanding of their own aging process and also how changing middle-aged and older adults’ negative views on aging can facilitate the adoption of behaviors that are known to promote positive aging.

Dr. Diehl created a list of ways to adopt a more positive attitude toward your own aging process. He suggests that seniors:

Stay physically active by doing at least 30 minutes of movement or exercise every day.

Exercise your brain by engaging in mentally challenging activities, and never stop learning new things.

Adopt an overall healthy lifestyle by eating healthfully, getting enough sleep, managing weight, and not drinking in excess or smoking.

Stay connected to other people by nurturing relationships with your spouse or partner, family, friends, neighbors, and others in your community, including young people.

Create positive emotions for yourself by practicing positive emotion exercises and learning to feel good about your age.

Don’t sweat the small stuff; accept what you cannot do, and ask for help when needed.

Set goals for yourself and take control of the steps needed to achieve them.

Minimize life stress; practice healthy coping techniques, and learn to relax and unwind.

Have regular medical check-ups, take advantage of health screenings, and engage in healthy preventive behaviors.

A positive outlook for a healthier life

With his positive outlook and can-do spirit, T. Boone Pickens seems to have mastered the art of positive aging. For those of you who may struggle with maintaining optimism about the aging process, you’re certainly not alone. But by reframing your thoughts on growing older and focusing on Dr. Diehl’s healthy suggestions, you can improve your mindset, and hopefully, following your example, your fellow campus residents see an example that they can embrace, as well.

Drop me a note anytime you have an example of how the positive aging environment at Beatitudes Campus has enriched your life.  We’re kicking around the idea of a marketing piece that highlights these benefits.  Stay cool!*

Easing Arthritis Pain

Sun, August 19, 2018 Published by

According to mayoclinic.org, arthritis is a leading cause of pain and disability worldwide, but there are a variety of approaches to minimize the effects.  Recently, NAU occupational therapy instructor and certified hand therapist, Dr. Ivy, Cindi, presented an educational seminar on hand arthritis treatment and management.  Because the hand arthritis event was so well-received and not everyone was able attend Dr. Ivy’s seminar, Dr. Ivy will be available for individuals to drop in and learn personalized tips for hand arthritis management on August 31st from 1:30-2:00PM in AgeLink 1. 

For those who experience arthritis in any form, Success Matters would like to offer you four general tips to reduce the pain and stiffness:

Warm up: Warm up before doing an arduous activity with the affected joints. This can be done by using heat (heating pad, warm shower, or Beatitudes hot tub) to begin warming up the joints, followed by gently stretching and moving the joint through its full range of motion several times.  After a proper warm-up, your joints will be ready for activity with less pain and stiffness. 

Protect your joints: Joint protection involves using the bigger muscles to do challenging or repetitive tasks.  For example, carry objects close to the body so less stress is put on the smaller joints, use proper posture, and use simpler push/pull movements rather than twisting movements whenever possible.  Additionally, wearing a brace, such as a back brace or wrist brace, during activities can help ensure proper body mechanics and joint support.

Find the right tool for the job: Built-up tools (pictured) create a larger surface area, which puts less stress on the fingers and wrist.  Other practical tools, such as reachers or long handled tools, help users avoid strain from bending or reaching, and some tools like the bottle opener pictured, allow for a push/pull movement rather than a twisting movement.

Move it or lose it: The most important principle of arthritis management is to keep the joints moving.  While our instinct can be to avoid using a joint when we have pain or stiffness, over time, this will lead to muscle loss, increased stiffness, and as a result, more pain.  It’s important to interrupt this cycle by incorporating the appropriate amount of activity, stretches, and exercises to keep the joints strong and mobile for the long-term. 

We hope you’ll use these tips to minimize the effects of arthritis, and consider dropping by Age Link Classroom1 on August 31st from 1:30-2PM for hand arthritis advice from guest Dr. Cindy Ivy.*

Our New Program is Beginning!

Sun, August 19, 2018 Published by

Stop by Elaine’s on Monday, August 20 at 6PM to hear about the new “Let’s get Acquainted” program that is beginning.  We will be sharing how we see the program running and how folks can get involved.  Refreshments will be provided so be sure to make your way down!

We will be celebrating all August birthdays on Thursday, August 23 at 1PM in the Great Hall.  Gaylan Taylor will be here entertaining with cake and punch provided.  It does not have to be your birthday month to come and boogie, so please come down and celebrate with us!

Are you interested in being a part of the campus’s annual Christmas cards?  If so, submit your painting with a Christmas theme and we will be looking at having your painting published.  For any painting that is used, the owner who submitted it will receive copies of cards for their pleasure.  If you are interested or have questions, call Didi at x18473.  Deadline to submit is the beginning of November.

Do you have an interest in painting?  We have Angie’s Open Paint Class every 2nd and 4th Friday at 2:30PM in the Recreation Center. There is no sign up required, just stop by and join the class. Angie specializes in teaching painting and would love to increase her number of students.  There is no class fee other than bringing your own supplies.  For any questions, call Didi at x18473.  No experience necessary.

Be on the lookout for Active Aging Week material that will show all the events and programs we have scheduled at the end of September. What is Active Aging Week? Every year we join this National Celebration to promote Active Aging through fun, creative and interactive outlets. Learn more at: www.activeagingweek.com/about.php

Opportunities to get Involved

Sun, August 19, 2018 Published by

Multi-Faith Food Drive and Native American Film and Drumming

The Beatitudes Campus has always been a place where residents continue to learn and grow, and participate fully in the wider community. There are some events coming up over the next few weeks that offer you the chance for just that.

The first event coming up is a food drive sponsored by friends of Campus, the Islamic Speakers Bureau of Arizona (ISBA) founded by Azra Hussain. It has been an honor to participate in food drives with ISBA in the past as they strive to heal and help those in the community.

This Multi-Faith 9/11 Food Drive is a way to honor those who died on 9/11/2001 by bringing people of many religious traditions, ethnicities and ages together to care for those in need in our community.  Both residents and employees are encouraged to participate in the food drive.

Labeled food donation boxes will be set up in the lounges of the apartment buildings around campus. We are asking for peanut butter and tuna only to be donated as these are items that are always in need at local food shelters. Simply place your donations of peanut butter and/or tuna in these boxes when it is convenient for you between Monday, August 20 and Sunday, September 9. 

Another way you can support this food drive is by making a monetary donation in cash or check. If by check, make it out to Beatitudes Campus and on the memo line (at the lower left-hand corner of your check), write “Food Drive”. You can drop off your monetary donation to Chaplain Peggy’s office or call Nancy Splain at x18484, or Kimberly Bravo at x18465 to coordinate drop off/pick up of your donation.

Last year we were able to assist two different local food banks through your generosity.

Another event coming up is a screening of the short film, “We Are the Ones We’ve Been Waiting For” – Hopi Prayer and Prophecy brought to Campus by award winning documentary filmmaker Fidel Moreno. Fidel is a water and peace activist who identifies as Huichol, Yoeme and Mexican-American. He will also be able to give us an update on the happenings at and his participation in the gathering at Standing Rock regarding protection of our water resources.  Following the viewing of his film we will have the unique opportunity to witness and participate in traditional Native American healing chants and drumming. Mark your calendars for Friday, August 31 at 2:00 p.m. in the Life Center for this unique, inspiring and educational experience.

Our outside community is a blessing to us by offering these amazing opportunities to serve and grow and by allowing us the gift to be a blessing in return.*

On Children

Sun, August 12, 2018 Published by

On August 22nd my husband and I will be taking our daughter Maddie up to Northern Arizona University to begin college.  There have been many plans and preparations throughout her senior year as she diligently applied to various colleges and scholarships and took all the required preparatory exams.  Then came the BIG decision—which college will it be?  When she decided on NAU there was momentary relief that the decision was made and then the next stage of preparations began as we learned about all that she needs to bring with her, who will be her roommate and in which dorm she will live.  During these days attention is mostly showered on Maddie as people ask with excitement where she will be going to college?!  However, I’m finding that those same people turn to me to ask, “And how are you doing mom?  You’re going to be an empty nester!”  When the kid flies from the nest everyone wonders what the parents are going to do with all their newly found time!  My heart is not breaking as my child leaves home. She is excited to test her wings and learn about life as an independent adult.  I, of course, will miss her and I’m sure I will worry more than I need to at times but I am excited that her life will be filled with fresh and new experiences.  It’s helpful to remind myself that life is a balance of holding on and letting go.  The prophet Khalil Gibran’s poem On Children says it all:

Your children are not your children.

They are the sons and daughters of Life’s longing for itself.

They come through you but not from you,

And though they are with you yet they belong not to you.

You may give them your love but not your thoughts,

For they have their own thoughts.

You may house their bodies but not their souls,

For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow,

which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.

You may strive to be like them,

but seek not to make them like you.

For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterday.

You are the bows from which your children

as living arrows are sent forth.

The archer sees the mark upon the path of the infinite,

and He bends you with His might

that His arrows may go swift and far.

Let your bending in the archer’s hand be for gladness;

For even as He loves the arrow that flies,

so He loves also the bow that is stable.

Perseverance (A Redevelopment Update)

Sun, August 12, 2018 Published by

Great works are performed not by strength but by perseverance”

—Samuel Johnson.

This is how I can best describe the campus master planning process. Over the last three years and approximately 17 versions of a potential plan, the Beatitudes Executive Team, Board of Directors along with financial, architectural and marketing experts have all worked diligently to create a plan that carries our mission of non-profit service to you and other older adults well into the future. It will expand and beautify our community, while also adding new amenities and renovating our vintage buildings. The plan is too complex to share here so, I invite you to a special Town Hall/All Staff meeting to be held on August 29th at 2:00PM in the Everett Luther Life Center.

I, along with the Board of Directors, want to thank you for your patience as we completed the process. I am excited to share the plan with you.*