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The fountains at Canterbury in the News
(OKLAHOMA CITY) - The Fountains at Canterbury, in conjunction with the Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, present this month's "Neuro Night" Tuesday, Oct. 18 at 6 p.m. in Town Center of The Fountains at Canterbury.
The topic this month is "The Adolescent Brain." A panel of experts including scientists and clinicians from the Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience will each present a portion of information and viewpoints on the topic. After the discussion, the panel will answer questions from members of the audience.
"Neuro Night is a free event that is open to the community and guests of all ages," said Chrissie Amman, sales and marketing director at The Fountains at Canterbury. "This event draws a great, interactive crowd and the presenters always have new and interesting viewpoints to share."
Please call (405) 217-4254 for more information, or to register for this event. A light dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m. with the presentation starting at 6 p.m. Next month's presentation on Nov. 15 will discuss the "The Injured Brain" and will be the last presentation for the year. Neuro Night will continue in January 2012.A $1 million construction and improvement project is underway at The Fountains at Canterbury of Oklahoma City, 1404 N.W. 122nd. The senior living community has plans for several innovative and upscale updates and renovations. The focus of most efforts will be in The Springs, which provides skilled nursing care and short term rehabilitation programs.
“These updates are tangible milestones we feel are necessary to take The Springs to the next level of outstanding service and outcomes,” said Scott Steinmetz, executive director. “Upon the completion of the larger, private patient suites and recovery through the use of our new state-of-the-art physical and occupational therapy suites, The Springs patients will be able to resume their activities of daily life sooner.”
This $1 million renovation includes extensive demolition, construction and interior design to hallways and numerous patient rooms as well as open spaces providing additional areas for programs, events and to provide welcoming places for patients to gather.
The current floor plan will be redeveloped to create more than 700 additional square feet for therapy suites and accommodate new equipment and nine additional private patient rooms. Renovations are set to be completed in late November.
”We are all very excited to see the completed project later this year. Updating this space will not only generate better results, the new lay out is designed to allow our associates to increase the amount time spent with patients and provide more customized, individualized services,” said Steinmetz.
Retirement home The Fountains at Canterbury in northwest Oklahoma City offers skilled nursing and physical therapy at The Springs, which began a $1 million renovation in June.
BY DYRINDA TYSON
Judy Kinworthy was ready to leave the hospital after a fall in July, but she wasn't ready to go home to her apartment at The Fountains at Canterbury. So she took a detour to The Springs, The Fountains' skilled nursing and physical therapy facility.
photo - This hallway to resident rooms in the 600 wing at The Springs is extra wide and well lighted.
And boy, was she surprised.
“It's so colorful,” she said, sitting in what will be the facility's courtyard, which will offer residents a place to congregate. The flat-screen television and the Wii that will anchor the area hadn't arrived, but bright tile underfoot formed flowers and ribbon that practically glowed in the light filtering through the skylight overhead. “It makes you feel more up,” she said.
The Fountains, 1404 NW 122, built in 1985, is the flagship for Watermark Retirement Communities, which now has sites in more than a dozen states. It offers everything from independent living to skilled nursing care, along with mix-and-match amenities such as three prepared meals a day, a variety of floor plans, classes and activities and a fitness center — complete with pool — simply called The Club.
But a $1 million renovation at The Springs, which kicked off in June, is about more than paint and carpet. It's about creating a new professional mindset as well, even though the average patient spends 34 days within The Springs' walls.
“There's a trend across the country now to move away from that medical model of care and more toward the social model of care,” said executive director Scott Steinmetz.
No one wants to live in a hospital, he said.
“What we've done is soften the edges,” he said.
That meant pulling out the nurses' station that once dominated the lobby to make room for the courtyard. It meant adding 700 square feet to house therapy suites and new equipment.
It meant turning rooms that once housed patients in pairs into private suites with amenities such as flat-screen televisions — a pleasant surprise for Kinworthy.
“I don't have that at home,” she said with a laugh.
Rooms are getting snapped up as soon as they are overhauled.
“We are filling up fast,” Steinmetz said.
It's all part of The Fountains' move toward a more holistic approach to residents' care. Quality care is still paramount, Steinmetz said, but the broader approach can help them “thrive versus just survive.”
And it's not just confined to retirement living.
“When I was born 45 years ago, my birth took place in a sterile, medical operating room,” he said. “Today, parents are having their babies in lavish birthing suites that look more like nice hotel rooms than operating rooms.”
But the renovations will help The Springs in its core mission of rehabilitation. The new occupational therapy suite is outfitted with the everyday things that could pose a problem for someone just emerging from a hospital stay: a full kitchen, laundry area and bathroom.
“The idea here is we want the therapist to practice with the patient before he or she returns home,” Steinmetz said.
Meanwhile, stacks of boxes in the newly expanded physical therapy gym hint at what's to come. New equipment means even better care for patients, said fitness and wellness director Jim Story.
“We can deal with anything they have going on with them — joint replacement, stroke victims, cardiovascular disease,” he said. “All that we can handle here on campus.”
One machine has a seat that can be removed to allow wheelchair access. Another, which functions as a recumbent bike, is outfitted with straps that help keep hands and legs in place, which allows people with varying degrees of paralysis to exercise. And that exercise can be critical.
“It increases circulation to the lower extremities, and it helps reduce the presence of pressure sores,” Story said. “And if they have any, it helps heal them by additional blood circulation in there. So it's a wonderful, wonderful tool.”
New equipment means therapists can handle any case coming their way.
“And that's the key,” Story said. “Whoever comes, you can give them the best service and hopefully improve their quality of life.”
Both the occupational and physical therapy facilities will be open to seniors who don't live at The Fountains, just as The Club has been for years. The move is “part of Watermark's commitment to healthy aging and being a resource to seniors in the Oklahoma City market,” Steinmetz said.
Fountains resident Jim Glasgow suffered a mild heart attack in March — “It didn't seem mild at the time,” he noted — and after a week in the hospital, he spent about 10 days at The Springs working on his balance and endurance.
“They had four or five therapists in a room about a third, a fourth the size of this one,” he said, chuckling as he looked around the expanded gym. “This is looking pretty good.”
EDMOND — The Fountains at Canterbury of Oklahoma City is undergoing a $1 million construction and improvement project scheduled for completion in late November.
The senior living community is adding upscale updates and renovations throughout the area with focus in The Springs, an area which provides skilled nursing care and short-term rehabilitation programs.
“The updates are tangible milestones we feel are necessary to take The Springs to the next level of outstanding service and outcomes,” said Scott Steinmetz, executive director in a recent release.
“Upon the completion of the larger, private patient suites and recovery through the use of our new state-of-the-art physical and occupational therapy suites, The Springs patients will be able to resume their activities of daily life sooner.”
Steinmetz said The Springs was built in 1987.
The renovation includes demolition, construction as well as interior design to hallways and patient rooms. Open spaces will be provided for areas for programs and events.
The current floor plan will be redeveloped to create more than 700 additional square feet for therapy suites and accommodate new equipment and nine additional private patient rooms.
Homer “Dale” Yocum has been a patient of The Springs since July 8, 2011.
“Our focus is for Dale to come home, so we just work hard during therapy so that can happen,” said Dale’s wife, Norma Yocum.
“I really enjoy the fact that I can come in whenever I like and just be with him. We have been married for 62 years and that is what we do — take care of each other. I love the fact that we get to sit after his therapy sessions and just reminisce about all of the great years of our life.”
A natural rock wall is a focal point in the central area that is visible from each side of the community and specialized millwork is present throughout. Bright colors, fresh patterns and textures as well as new furnishings are set to flank the renovated space, and a ‘Centiva’ flooring system that is laser cut into flowers and ribbons will be assembled on-site.
“Updating this space will not only generate better results, but the new layout is designed to allow our associates to individualize services,” Steinmetz said.
Lambert Construction Company of Stillwater has been chosen to update the project bringing 20 workers on-site each day and 12 sub-contractors to complete the project which includes renovated therapy suite, and updates to rooms, hallways, floor and wall coverings.
Are you thriving or just surviving? It’s a question that every senior adult needs to ask themselves routinely.
At The Fountains at Canterbury in Oklahoma City, the answer is never in doubt. Scott Steinmetz, is the
executive director of the retirement community. He says the Fountains at Canterbury offers a retirement lifestyle like no other.
“We’re a continuing care retirement community and we offer independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing,” Steinmetz said. “The nice thing is you don’t have to worry about the upkeep of your home and if your health situation does change you don’t have to leave the friends you’ve met here you can transition to an area right here on the property and get the support you need and still be part of The Fountains at Canterbury family.”
Located on a beautiful campus in northwest Oklahoma City, the Fountains at Canterbury offers residents relaxed living with all the amenities of home and even a few amenities that aren’t at home.
Le Cordon Bleu-trained Chef Bo prepares unique and savory meals for residents.
In June, residents were treated to the monthly theme dinner. This month Chef Bo prepared New York strip topped with a red wine mushroom sauce. This prime cut of meat was served with brown rice and green bean almondine and then finished off with a fabulous strawberry swirl cheesecake.
And at the Fountains, a premium is placed on remaining active.
The Fountains at Canterbury has opened The Club, a full-service fitness center, to the public. Seniors in the Oklahoma City area now have the opportunity stay fit and active with the new offering.
“I look forward to going to The Club every day. Coming here makes me feel better,” said Dr. Joel Corn, a retired family practitioner and member of The Club. “The staff is very knowledgeable. They really
understand how to handle everyone’s needs and know where my limitations may be.”
Residents at the Fountains have full access to The Club.
The Club provides specific amenities seniors need to stay fit and active, including an initial fitness assessment and personalized exercise program. Other amenities included in The Club membership are two complimentary meals per month at The Fountains at Canterbury, invitations to educational and social events, access to conference and guest rooms and priority access to respite services in The Inn, The Gardens and The Springs.
“By offering this valuable program to the community our goal is to help these individuals attain a more healthy and active lifestyle and keep their independence,” said Jim Story, director of fitness at The
Fountains at Canterbury. “We have had more than 35 telephone calls from those interested in The Club and many have signed up to start working out. We are excited to provide structured exercise programs to help these individuals.”
Any seniors may become a member of The Club for only $29 a month or $40 a month per couple. Members enjoy access to the fitness center, heated indoor pool and expert instruction by certified personal trainers who specialize in the aging and special populations.
The Fountains at Canterbury is dedicated to being the first choice in senior living. With innovative ideas and top-notch technology as well as numerous living options, The Fountains at Canterbury is committed to creating an extraordinary community where people thrive.
Steinmetz believes residents enjoy having all the amenities but not having them spread out.
“I think people like the fact that we’re not this big, huge monstrous place,” Steinmetz said.
The Fountains features 78 independent living apartments with nine of those serving as cottages, or free-standing homes. An additional 33 beds are available at The Gardens, the memory care residence at The Fountains.
The Fountains at Canterbury is a membership community and with membership comes benefits.
Educational opportunities are also always on the horizon at the Fountains at Canterbury. Various lunch and learn days are set each month to help residents, their families and future residents stay informed on topics that are relevant to them at their stage in life. The focus of the Lunch and Learn is to let guests know how the residents at Canterbury thrive everyday.
Watermark University is also an opportunity for residents to both learn and teach. Residents can teach and attend a variety of classes from learning simple French, making jewelry, wine tasting, to a discussion group on women in power throughout history.
Steinmetz says some residents thrive by continuing to be involved in the groups, committees and clubs they had been a part of prior to moving to Canterbury. Others thrive by being able to be around their friends and family regularly or attending theme dinners and dancing with friends.
Mars, Venus have different brains
Learn more about how gender affects brain development at a “Neuro Night” event tonight at Town Center in the Fountains of Canterbury, 4400 NW 122. Scientists and clinicians from the Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience will speak about “Female vs. Male Brains” and answer questions. The event is free and open to the public. A light dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m. The presentation will begin at 6 p.m. For more information, call 217-4254.(OKLAHOMA CITY) - Southmoore High School senior Karlee Liner performed a vocal medley July 8 for residents at The Fountains at Canterbury in Oklahoma City. Liner is the first local recipient of a Watermark for Kids award presented by The Fountains at Canterbury and the national non-profit organization, Watermark for Kids.
Liner performed "Lullaby of Broadway Medley" from "42nd Street," "Home" from "Beauty and the Beast," "Practically Perfect" from "Mary Poppins, the Broadway Musical," "Someone to Watch Over Me" from "Oh, Kay!," "Happy Working Song" from "Enchanted," "Ave Verum" written by Mozart and "Lipstick on Your Collar" written by Connie Francis for residents.
"We are thrilled to have Ms. Liner perform for our residents," said Jill Hofer, executive director of Watermark for Kids. "Our residents and associates work very hard throughout the year to raise funds and they love to see their efforts help local youth thrive."
Liner is a student in the musical theatre production class at the Lyric Theatre and Thelma Gaylord Academy of Oklahoma City who applied to be a Watermark Kid as a supplement for tuition. She has previously appeared in "Grease" and "Bye Bye Birdie." She also performed in Southmoore's production of "Cinderella" and is involved in the fine arts department. Liner began singing at the young age of five, and now plans on pursuing singing and music as a career.
Watermark for Kids is partially funded by Watermark Retirement Communities, which manages The Fountains at Canterbury. Watermark for Kids empowers youth with new opportunities to thrive. Kids age six to 22 who seek to make a difference in their lives and the lives of others, are eligible to apply.
The Fountains at Canterbury, in conjunction with the Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience, present “Neuro Night” at 6 p.m. Tuesday in Town Center of The Fountains at Canterbury.
This month “The Brain and Hearing Loss” will be discussed by a panel of three experts including scientists and clinicians from the Oklahoma Center for Neuroscience. Topics to be discussed include hearing, language, strokes, autism, movement disorders, dementia, environmental influences and genetic effects among others. Following the presentation, members of the audience will have the opportunity to interact with the panelists to further explore the implications of the new findings.
This presentation is free to attend. Call 217-4254 for more information or to register for this event. A light dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m. with the presentation starting at 6 p.m. “Neuro Night” is presented on the third Tuesday of every month.
The Fountains of Canterbury and Le Cordon Bleu Master Chef Bo Kbabra have joined for two “Evening with the Chef” programs at Canterbury. The first will be at 5 p.m. Tuesday when Chef Bo will prepare and showcase a cheese and appetizer course in the kitchen of an apartment at Town Center in Canterbury. Admission is free and guests will be able to taste the variety of cheeses along with a Summer Delight Watermelon Salad. Each appetizer will be accompanied by a white wine.
The second evening will be at 5 p.m. July 19 when Chef Bo will present the entree and dessert portion of “An Evening With the Chef.” Again, the evening will be free of charge to guests.
(OKLAHOMA CITY) - The Fountains at Canterbury of Oklahoma City and Le Cordon Bleu Master Chef Bo Kbarbra welcome you Tuesday, July 12 at 5 p.m. for "An Evening with the Chef." While attendees watch, Master Chef Bo will prepare and showcase a cheese and appetizer course in the kitchen of a beautifully appointed apartment at Town Center.
Master Chef Bo will serve a variety of cheese samplings along with a Summer Delight Watermelon Salad with beautiful mixed greens and juicy orange slices, topped with a lemon vinaigrette and balsamic glaze. Each appetizer will be accompanied by a white wine.
"This event is a unique opportunity for guests to sample our fantastic food as well as tour our beautiful community," said Chrissie Ammann, assistant sales director at The Fountains at Canterbury. "We have several renovated apartments at Town Center as well as many physical changes being completed in The Springs that we are excited to showcase."
To reserve your spot for July 12 or July 19, please call 405-381-8165.
This event is the first of a two-part event. The entree and dessert portion of "An Evening with the Chef" will be Tuesday, July 19 at 5 p.m. at The Fountains at Canterbury.
by Mark Schlachtenhaufen
EDMOND — One day Harry Gilbert and Joe Caskey struck up a conversation. Harry is 93, Joe is 92. They live with their wives at the Fountains at Canterbury, a retirement community near Quail Springs Mall.
They learned they are both World War II veterans.
They served in the Pacific.
They were in the Philippines.
They landed at Leyte.
And they were both on Red Beach.
“That has happened in the past, many times, I’m sure across the country,” Harry said of that moment when fellow soldiers meet. “You just have a bond. You were there at a difficult time in the same place and you can appreciate what it was like.” This year marks the 70th anniversary of the bombing of Pearl Harbor, which brought the U.S. into World War II, and the 67th anniversary of the Leyte invasion.
As you might expect, having the war experience in common, a friendship began. Both men are extremely respectful of the other’s military service.
“I know enough about Harry now to be respectful of his job, Army career, his life in general,” Joe said. “He is a gentleman and a fine one to know.”
“And that goes both ways,” Harry said. “He’s a very fine gentleman. I use this expression, he’s a good ol’ boy. Now that means something in the southwest. In Oklahoma and Texas, if you’re a good ol’ boy it means you’re just a good all-around person.”
Harry was born in Tulsa and served in the U.S. Army from 1941-46. He transitioned from field artillery to a truck officer and transported supplies, everything from small tanks to bombs and fruit. He originally had signed on for a 12-month tour. Pearl Harbor — Dec. 7, 1941 — changed that. Besides Leyte, he also was part of operations involving New Guinea.
Joe was born in Des Arc, Ark. He began his military career in the National Guard and served in the U.S. Army from 1941-45. He was in combat, an artillery officer. Besides Leyte, he also was part of operations involving Australia and New Guinea.
In October 1944, during the invasion of Leyte, Gen. Douglas MacArthur, leading an army of more than 250,000 men, waded ashore on the island at Red Beach, Palo, Leyte.
During that time, Joe recalls the troops doing “a lot of firing” to protect themselves. He remembers moving on to several other islands, and being attacked by many Japanese kamikazes.
“Fortunately, most of them were shot down,” he said. “One went right into this ship that was next to me, right by us, killed a bunch of people. But you just go on.”
Harry said his unit had been on the island of New Guinea for a couple of years island-hopping. He unit contained 600 two-and-1/2-ton trucks, which were usually not all used in one location.
“We were attached to the 1st Cavalry Division for the invasion,” Harry said. “Being service troops, as opposed to fighting troops, we don’t go ashore with the first wave or two. We go in behind them. By the time we landed, they had moved inland about probably a thousand yards.”
Harry said his job was to take the supplies deposited on the beach to the units that were going to use them, like Joe’s battery. On Red Beach, however, some service troops were ahead of the artillery because of the terrain, Harry said. Combat troops also needed the supplies including gasoline and artillery shells as they went inland.
“Even a thousand yards is a lot to move some of that stuff,” Harry said.
In January 1945, U.S. troops landed on Luzon. After the conquest of the Philippines was complete it was on to Iwo Jima and Okinawa. On Aug. 6 and Aug. 9, 1945, the U.S. dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. On Aug. 14, 1945, Japan surrendered.
Harry is the proud grandfather of a soldier was has served several tours in Iraq.
Single memberships are $29. Couples memberships are $40.
The Club will provide an initial fitness assessment and personalized exercise program. Members will also receive two free meals per month at The Fountains, invitations to educational and social events and priority access to respite services. Members may use the fitness center and heated indoor pool. They can receive expert instruction from certified personal trainers “who specialize in the aging and special populations,” according to a news release.
OKLAHOMA CITY) − The Fountains at Canterbury of Oklahoma City and the national non-profit organization, Watermark for Kids are proud to announce Karlee Liner as the first local recipient of a Watermark for Kids award.
Liner is a junior at Southmoore High School who applied to be a Watermark Kid as a supplement for tuition at the Thelma Gaylord Academy at the Lyric Theatre. She began singing at the young age of five, and now plans on pursuing singing and music as a career.
The award was presented by Scott Steinmetz, executive director of The Fountains at Canterbury as well as Jim Story, director of fitness and Christy Hrencher, sales and marketing director. The Fountains at Canterbury hosts fundraisers to provide donations to the Watermark for Kids program.
"Watermark for Kids was created to help underserved kids thrive," said Jill Hofer, executive director of Watermark for Kids. "We are proud to welcome Ms. Liner as our newest Watermark Kid.”
Watermark for Kids is partially funded by Watermark Retirement Communities, which manages The Fountains at Canterbury. Watermark for Kids empowers underserved youth with new opportunities to thrive. Kids age six to 22 who seek to make a difference in their lives and the lives of others, are eligible to apply.
Photo : Karlee Liner receives the first Watermark for Kids award in Oklahoma. Pictured (from left): Kathleen Liner, Scott Liner, Stephen Hilton, Scott Steinmetz, Robert Matson, Christy Hrencher, Karlee Liner and Jim Story.
If you have an interest in learning more about the Watermark for Kids program or how to assist, please visit www.watermarkforkids.org. For more information concerning The Fountains at Canterbury please call (405) 381-8165 or go online to www.watermarkcommunities.com.
The Fountains at Canterbury of Oklahoma City presents Kathy Brigham as guest speaker in the free seminar, “Sell Your House in 90 Days,” at 3 p.m. Thursday. Brigham will share outstanding strategies to sell a house in today’s real estate market. To learn more or to register for this free event, call 751-3600.
Brigham is the managing broker for Brigham & Reagan Realty LLC in Oklahoma City. She has been selling real estate as well as setting industry standards for more than 10 years in the Oklahoma City area. Prior to her real estate career, Brigham provided commercial interior design services for 20 years.
Ian Parker Reporting KFOR
OKLAHOMA CITY -- It's been 63 Valentine's Days since Maggie and Larry Hayes met. "We had two classes together [in college]," Maggie said. "One followed the other, and so we started walking together."
Now they're married and living in The Fountains at Canterbury Retirement Community.
Fifty-nine years ago on Valentine's Day, Jim Glasgow gave his future wife, Anne, his fraternity pin.
Anne recalls the night she and Jim first met: "I was with somebody else," Anne said. "And he was with somebody else, but we were sitting next to each other. He started a conversation with me and I started a conversation with him and from there on, it went."
And it went pretty far; Jim and Anne are married and also living in the Fountains at Canterbury.
We asked these two successful couples to give some advice on making a relationship last; they said there's one key ingredient:
"Doing things together has been very important," Anne said. "We both love to play golf."
"She forced us to do that [golf]," Jim said. "She said she didn't want to walk around following me, watching me play golf, so she learned how to play."
But more than your time, these couples say you've got to work, and give a piece of yourself everyday.
"Every day is Valentine's Day to me," Larry Hayes said.
"Just give it everything you have. Because it's really important," said Maggie Hayes.
Both couples say they won't do anything special for this Valentine's Day; for them, every day together is special.
They say, if you can give as much as you take, you just might end up as happy as they are.
"I wouldn't trade Maggie for anything in the world," Larry said.
Oklahoma City, Okla. – Individuals age 75 and older are being invited to join a year-long research project being conducted by University of Central Oklahoma at The Fountains at Canterbury in 2011. UCO faculty and students are looking for people interested in improving their strength, balance and quality of life. The study, called the Lift/Hipp Research Study, is a safe, supervised resistance exercise program led by trained students from the UCO’s Department of Kinesiology and Health Studies. Researchers will collect evidence-based results from study subjects who agree to participate in the year-long exercise study.
Complete information about the Lift/Hipp Research study will be available to the public at The Fountains at Canterbury, 1404 NW 122nd Street, on December 20th, from 2 pm to 4 pm.
Orientation for study participants will be held on Jan. 5th or January 10th at 1:30pm in the Commons Room at The Fountains at Canterbury. The study will begin January 12th.
According to Jim Story, Director of Fitness for The Fountains at Canterbury, Dr. Melissa Powers and her group will compare the impact of traditional resistance training (LIFT) to functional power training (HIPP) on body composition and functional impairment associated with sacropenia, osteoporosis and obesity. The results, he says, will aid in the continued evolution of safe and effective exercise programs for older adults throughout Oklahoma and the U.S.
“Recent evidence indicates that power training has a greater impact on functional outcomes than traditional resistance training but these studies are not of sufficient duration to observe meaningful changes in body composition,” Dr. Powers said. “We still do not understand the most effective type, duration, frequency and intensity of exercise training to target those body composition changes.”
“This will be interesting to see what the UCO study will do over a year long process and help us really see what the HIPP program can do for the general population,” Story added.
Story earned personal training certifications from the Cooper Institute in Dallas qualifying him as a Master Fitness Specialist, Fitness Specialist for the Aging Population, Fitness Specialist for Special Populations and a Health Promotion Director. He has completed five research projects as chief investigator with the aging population, and has served on the advisory committee for UCO’s Department of Health Science and Kinesiology. Story says he has been effectively using a power training program at The Fountains at Canterbury to assist individuals affected by stroke and Parkinson’s.
For more information, interested parties may call Jim Story at 405-751-3600 or contact the LIFT/HIPP research team at 405- 974-5309.
Oklahoma City, OK - Some of Oklahoma City’s distinguished military Veterans are sharing life lessons they learned in service through a project spearheaded by Watermark Retirement Communities, one of the nation’s leading operators of senior living communities. Senior veterans living at The Fountains at Canterbury are among dozens interviewed by Watermark. Here’s what some of them said:
Wallace Hoyt – Mr. Hoyt served from May 1943 to June 1947 in the Army Air Corps (after the war the name was changed to Air Force). He Graduated from Aviation School on August 25, 1945, a couple of weeks after Japan surrendered to the U.S., bringing an end to WWII. He was made Second Lieutenant and was given Wings for being a Flying Officer. When asked the number one lesson he learned, he said: “Discipline. Every young man should serve his country; it helps them grow up.”
James Cannon - Mr. Cannon served in WWII from 1942 to 1946. He was a quarter master in the Navy and served on landing ship 449. The #1 lesson he learned is: “Don’t take life for granted.”
George Smith - Mr. Smith served in WWII and beyond, from 1940 to 1957. He was a Master Sergeant in the Army Air Corps. His #1 Lesson: “Do your job the best you can”.
Mr. Harry Gilbert – Mr. Gilbert was a member of ROTC until his joining the Army in 1941. He served 37 months in the Pacific, mostly in New Guinea and the Philippines, during WWII. He was an Army Motor Officer in charge of trucks and his unit was attached to infantry and cavalry divisions. His job was to pick up and take supplies to combat units. His unit was attached to the first cavalry division involved in the Battle of Leyte, which was the first attempt to take back the Philippines from the Japanese, a battle involving MacArthur in which he exclaimed, “I have returned.” Mr. Gilbert said, “In the Army you experience the real dedication of America overcoming a war. We all did our part, even the civilians. Everyone focused to get the job done.” He learned: “Americans truly have the fighting spirit.”
Mr. Merle Galyon - Mr. Galyon was in the Air Force from 1942 to 1946 during WWII. He was a qualified Tech Mechanic for planes. Most specifically he was a crew chief for a B-41 fighter plane in the South Pacific. He was stationed on Iwo Jima the last year of fighting. His planes escorted American bombers coming from Sai Pan to Japan. He received a Presidential Citation, Good Conduct Medal and Asiatic Pacific Combat Medal. His service taught him: “Obey what they tell you to do. The military will train you for your job and expect you to do good at that job. If you are in the service, work to do the best you can.”
Dozens of sage life lessons lrom veterans coast to coast are published for public viewing at www.watermarkcommunities.com/veteransday. Stories and comments from other veterans are welcome there.
The Fountains at Canterbury welcomes the public to attend its Salute to Veterans on November 11th. Residents will begin the day with a Pancake Breakfast from 7:00 to 9:00 a.m. At 9:00 a.m. in the Town Center Building, Corporal Archie Pierce of the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs will be the guest speaker. He served in the Marine Corps for four years, spending 13 ½ months in Vietnam. Following, resident Guielo Ferlo, who served in the U.S. Army in WWII, will lead a ceremonial flag raising directly in front of the Town Center with resident Margaret Hanna, a member of the DAR, reciting a Veterans Day Poem along with other thoughts and quotes she will be sharing about Veterans.
Guests are invited to stay for refreshments, mingle with veterans and view a supersized exhibit of personal military photos, uniforms and other memorabilia on display, courtesy of Fountains residents.
Later in the day, at 3:00 p.m. speaker Bill Brown from the Oklahoma City Veterans Center will share some stories about his own experiences serving in the Armed Forces, at The Inn (the assisted living neighborhood of The Fountains).
Scott Steinmetz has joined The Fountains at Canterbury, 1404 NW 122nd St., as Executive Director. He brings with him nearly 30 years of experienced leadership in senior living services.
“We are thrilled to have at the helm an executive with Scott’s leadership experience,” said Managing Director Chris Casteel. According to Casteel, Steinmetz’ appointment was made after an extensive, nationwide executive search, conducted by Watermark Retirement Communities. Watermark recently resumed management of The Fountains at Canterbury after a five-year hiatus.
Since commencing his career as a dietary aide at a nursing home, Steinmetz has been a change agent, according to Casteel.
“The traditional nursing home I started in is no longer an acceptable model of care,” Steinmetz said.
“Over the past 29 years, I’ve remained committed to improving the lives of individuals living and working in the field of senior living. That means pushing the boundaries of traditional approaches to care and services as well as challenging individuals’ views about seniors.
“Today’s seniors are demanding more choices, higher quality services and better value,” he continued. “I believe Watermark is committed to surpassing the expectations of today’s savvy senior. I’m excited to be joining the team of senior living professionals at Watermark because I share their passion for creating extraordinary communities where people thrive.”
September 14, 2010, Oklahoma City – Every first and third Tuesday this Fall semester finds 20 students paying rapt attention as instructor Jim Story talks about fossils, faulting, folding and formations. The course is Geology of Oklahoma through the Eyes of an Oklahoma Geologist.
What’s unique about these students is their advanced age, averaging over 80. In October, they will board a bus for a field trip to gather rose rock, Oklahoma’s state rock, and visit the first oil well drilled and produced in Oklahoma.
Story, a retired geologist, volunteers to teach the class--one of dozens offered for free to area seniors on the campus of The Fountains at Canterbury through Watermark University. Keeping brains and bodies active is the goal of Watermark University, a nationwide collaboration of Watermark Retirement Communities, Inc. and the communities it manages.
Story knows a thing or two about brain and body fitness. After 20 years as an exploration geologist in southern Oklahoma, he earned personal training certifications from the Cooper Institute in Dallas qualifying him as a Master Fitness Specialist, Fitness Specialist for the Aging Population and a Fitness Specialist for Special Populations.
Story, whose day job is as Director of Fitness for The Fountains at Canterbury, says he has found his true passion helping seniors apply fitness for prevention, retention of functional independence and attainment of the best quality of life during what he calls “the most exceptional time of their lives.”
During Active Aging Week, September 20-26, area seniors are encouraged to “be active their way” by the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA). The Fountains at Canterbury invites the public to experience opportunities for active aging as offered through Watermark University and The Fountains at Canterbury throughout the year.
In addition to Geology of Oklahoma, Watermark University currently offers the following classes at The Fountains at Canterbury: Beginning Spanish, History and Art of Doll Collecting, Essential Oils and their everyday uses, he Art of Makeup and Manicures, Reading and Writing Short Stories and Poetry, The French Experience: Chef Abe Pierson demonstrates the Art of French Cooking, Building Simple Birdfeeders, Beginning French and Yoga for Seniors.
Oklahoma City, Okla. -- On July 27, The Fountains at Canterbury, 1404 NW 122nd St., hosted “A Mad Hatter’s Tea Party” for 150 curious residents and guests. Dining Services Director, Abe Pierson gave everyone a peek through the looking glass into the history and traditions of the English pastime, as costumed characters from Alice in Wonderland served as hosts.
According to Pierson, a culinary graduate of Johnson & Wales, the wonderland tea encompassed not only the whimsical but also the traditional elements of a “Full Tea” which includes savories (tiny sandwiches), scones served with jam and lemon curd and pastries which will include tea cookies and cakes. Recipes were made available to guests wishing to recreate this experience for friends and family.
No tea was thrown overboard and no political speeches were made.
Lots of love and promises kept are gifts that keep on giving
Oklahoma City, Okla. – A new tie or a new rake may top the list of gifts many kids will give their fathers on June 20th. However, experienced fathers at an Oklahoma City retirement community are shifting the focus of the holiday to what lasting gifts fathers can pass on to future generations.
Associates of The Fountains at Canterbury, 1404 NW 122nd St., recently sat down with six dads in residence to ask their opinions about fatherhood. The interviews were conducted as part of a nationwide project spearheaded by Watermark Retirement Communities. Following is their advice for young fathers today.
Joe Caskey, 91, raised three sons in Denver, CO and Oklahoma City, OK. He said, “It’s so important to maintain healthy habits with life and especially with food. Be sure to have a healthy diet to help them grow. Encourage them to study, enjoy school and get a great education.”
Dr. Charles Freede, 89, raised one son and three daughters in Oklahoma City, OK. He tells young dads today, “Get an education as far as you can afford or further if you can.”
Werner Gubelin, 93, raised a son and a daughter in New York. His advice: “Give your children as much time as possible. Do not devote all your time to business.”
Dan Axt, 79, raised four daughters in Lower Michigan and Central Florida. He adds another important perspective: “Love your kids’ mother so they can see loving parents throughout their childhood.”
George Smith, 91, raised three sons and one daughter in Borger, Texas. He covers all the bases when he says, “Be true to your wife and take care of her, go to school, get an education, get a good job, be honest with your kids and be a good companion to them.”
Tom Stevenson, 82, raised two sons in Plymouth Meeting, PA. Looking on the lighter side, he advises, “If you get a job you don’t like, don’t stay with it. Pick a job that you like to do. When raising your kids, tell them whatever they do…to always have fun.”
Each of these fathers raised their families a half century ago. Such perspective lends both clarity and credibility to their advice.
By speaking out, these members of an experienced generation are offering young fathers today a most valuable Father’s Day gift.
Oklahoma City, Okla. – Creativity never ceases to blossom with age. That’s the message folks of The Fountains at Canterbury will send loud and clear to the public at Expressions: An Exhibit Celebrating Active Aging and the Arts. The show goes up this Tuesday in the Town Center of The Fountains at Canterbury, 1404 NW 122.
A public opening will be held Friday, June 4th from 3pm to 5pm. At the opening, adult guests will be free to view the art, sip champagne cocktails and sample Canterbury signature menu items, while June Carter and Lou Ann Rice provide musical entertainment. Guests are welcome to attend by calling 751-3600.
More than 25 Canterbury residents will showcase their artistic creations in a variety of media, according to Becky Strong, Community Life Director. Three local judges will select “best of show” pieces to be entered into a nationwide competition amongst residents of 26 communities managed by Tucson-based Watermark Retirement Communities. Finalists will be featured in the company’s award-winning “Expressions” calendar.
“Our resident artists are very excited about this exhibit,” said Strong. “Some are lifelong artists while others have only just recently given art a try. All are living proof that it’s never too late to express yourself.”
“Creativity is also an important part of overall brain fitness, which is vital to healthy aging,” added Jill Hofer, spokesperson for Watermark Retirement Communities.
According to Hofer, Watermark further promotes brain and body fitness through Watermark University, which will be coming soon to The Fountains at Canterbury campus. Watermark University engages seniors in innovative learning and fitness programs such as yoga, Pilates, dancing, songwriting, storytelling, theater, drumming, languages, cooking, floral design, gardening, jewelry making, Facebook, and more. Courses are now being finalized for the Fall Semester Catalogue. For more information, contact Becky Strong at 751-3600.Barbeque Competition to Benefit Children of Fallen Military Heroes Will Follow
Oklahoma City, Okla. - Residents and guests will gather at The Fountains at Canterbury, 1404 NW 122nd St., on May 31st at 10:30am for a memorial service led by Reverend Bill Hesse to honor those who gave their lives for our freedom, in the Town Center Chapel.
Following the service, Memorial Day poetry and verse will be recited by Fountains at Canterbury resident Margaret Hanna, a long time member of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
At noon will be a Flag Raising Ceremony in front of the Town Center building. Attending the flag will be Fountains at Canterbury resident and veteran, Dr. Ulrich Laquer, U. S. Army Medical Corp Captain. The ceremony will be dedicated to the memory of Gillis Johnson, who passed away May 16, 2010. Johnson was a Canterbury resident who had served as a Major General and Pilot in the Air Force Reserve during WWII.
“It’s important for all Americans to pay our respects to patriots who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country,” said Executive Director Greg Guymon. “So many of our residents are veterans who served our country on foreign battlefields and left comrades behind. We will honor them all on this day,” he said.
All military veterans and members of the public are welcome to attend the service and ceremony, space permitting. For reservations, call 751-3600.
Immediately following the flag raising ceremony, the mood will turn to light hearted and downright sticky as Oklahoma takes on Texas in Canterbury’s Inaugural Red River Rib Rivalry. Two Canterbury Chefs, Mitchell Werito and Abraham Pierson, have accepted the challenge from their boss (Guymon) to determine, once and for all, who makes the best BBQ, Texas or Oklahoma? Canterbury residents will have to be the judge. And their mouths are already watering.
A source close to the situation (Guymon) says the odds could be on Mitchell Werito, a native Oklahoman and die-hard OU fan. Werito first worked at The Fountains at Canterbury while attending Platt College. After graduating in 2006, he accepted a position as Head Cook at Rose State College and was soon promoted to Food and Beverage Manager. He recently returned to Canterbury, where he now works closely with Dining Services Director, Abe Pierson. Although they work in the same kitchen, their recipes for BBQ are distinctly different – and strictly secret.
Pierson is a Texas native who has been in the food and beverage industry for about 15 years. He graduated from Johnson & Wales University in 1996 with an Associate's Degree in Culinary Arts. He started his career at a 4-star restaurant in Houston and continued his career in restaurants and casinos. Abraham started in the healthcare industry about 5 years ago working for Sunrise Senior Living in Dallas and transferred to the Fountains at Canterbury last year as the Executive Chef until he was recently promoted to Dining Services Director. Pierson is a die-hard Longhorn fan. But don’t let that disqualify him from receiving your vote, warns Guymon.
“We haven’t determined exactly how the winner will be decided,” Guymon admitted. “It’s really stacked against Abe. He’s not from Oklahoma and everybody already knows our BBQ/Football is the best. However, if we’re pressed to vote, after a few brews and some BBQ, it may be appropriate to simply whoop and holler for the best BBQ,” he said.
Admission to Canterbury’s Inaugural Red River Rib Rivalry is free to Canterbury residents and outside reservations will be restricted due to space limitations. In lieu of a plate charge, $10 donations will be accepted on behalf of Snowball Express, a charity for the children of fallen military heroes.
US News and World Report published this about Snowball Express. “Since Sept. 11, 2001, more than 8,000 children have lost a U.S. service-member parent as a result of the ongoing conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. To help these children succeed, to help them understand that they are valued and important, a group of folks founded an organization called Snowball Express, "a charity for the children of our fallen military heroes." Its mission is a simple one: to bring families experiencing the loss of a service-member parent together so that they can realize they are not alone.” – Peter Rolf, October 27, 2009.
Renee Weatherford, RN has joined The Fountains at Canterbury, 1404 NW 122 St., as Director of Nursing for The Springs, the community’s onsite Medicare-certified skilled nursing center, announced Greg Guymon, Executive Director. Weatherford brings 10 years of DON experience to her new role, which commenced March 29th.
Weatherford said, “I'm excited to be here at The Fountains at Canterbury, which is now part of Watermark, and I look forward to creating extraordinary opportunities for each resident.”
“We do whatever it takes to help residents feel at home at The Springs,” added Guymon. “Renee understands excellent customer service as well as excellent nursing care, so she is a great fit for our team,” Guymon said.
Darci O’Connor also rejoined The Fountains at Canterbury on May 3rd, after a three-year absence. O’Connor will serve as Director of Community Relations for The Springs, where she will share her extensive knowledge about senior living and health care, skilled nursing and rehabilitation services, Medicare and supplemental insurance as a consumer resource, and promote smooth care transitions from hospital to home.
O’Connor said, “My return to Canterbury really feels like coming home. Helping people get the care they need is my calling. My main focus at The Fountains at Canterbury is to give people viable options.”
Inaugural River Rib Rivalry will feature two Canterbury chefs, Mitchell Werito and Abraham Pierson.
A rib competition will follow Memorial Day services Monday at The Fountains at Canterbury, 1404 NW 122.
Canterbury’s inaugural Red River Rib Rivalry will follow a noon flag-raising ceremony. Two Canterbury chefs have accepted the challenge to determine who makes the best barbecue, Oklahoman Mitchell Werito or Texas native Abraham Pierson. Canterbury residents will judge.
Werito first worked at The Fountains at Canterbury while attending Platt College. After graduating in 2006, he accepted a position as head cook at Rose State College and was soon promoted to food and beverage manager. He recently returned to Canterbury, where he works closely with Pierson, the dining services director.
Although they work in the same kitchen, their recipes for barbecue are distinctly different.
Pierson has been in the food and beverage industry for about 15 years. He graduated from Johnson & Wales University in 1996 with an associate’s degree in culinary arts. He started his career at a four-star restaurant in Houston and continued his career in restaurants and casinos. He entered the health care industry about five years ago, working for Sunrise Senior Living in Dallas.
Pierson was transferred to the Fountains at Canterbury last year as executive chef and recently was promoted to dining services director.
Admission to Canterbury’s Inaugural Red River Rib Rivalry is free to Canterbury residents. Outside reservations are welcome but restricted by space limitations. For reservations, call 751-3600.
In lieu of a plate charge, $10 donations will be accepted on behalf of Snowball Express, a charity for the children of fallen military heroes.
Seven Senior Women at The Fountains at Canterbury Offer Words of Wisdom
Oklahoma City, Okla., May 1, 2010 – Seven local moms with years and years of experience are among 150+ mothers nationwide who are speaking out in time for Mother’s Day. Even though they raised their own children decades ago, the sage advice of these moms is just as meaningful today as it was some sixty years ago. In between managing today’s hectic family schedules, working, carpooling, cooking PLUS diaper changes, young moms in 2010 can use all the advice they can get.
The collective advice ranges from tips on raising kids to advice for the moms’ personal lives. For example, Oklahoma City resident Wilma Pojezny, who raised three children here, offers this advice: “When you ask your children to do something, whatever age they are, you should hold them accountable for their actions. Discipline is important.”
Other local mothers’ advice includes:
“Love your children dearly. When they get older make sure they know about Jesus.”
-Marvene Musgrove, raised 1 son in Oklahoma City, OK
“Spend all the time you can with your children.”
-Louise Jones, raised 2 children in Tulsa, OK
“Stay calm! Stick with it. It’s a full time job.”
-Gwen Thomas, raised 2 daughters in Pryor, OK
“Have Fun! Be yourself 100% because that’s how they learn.”
-Maxine Booth, raised 4 children in Oklahoma City, OK
“Love them a lot, teach them to be kind and productive.”
-Ann Hardy, raised 3 children in Atlanta, Chicago, Birmingham, Memphis, Little Rock, and Oklahoma City
“Just love em!”
-Janice Roberts, raised 3 children including twins in Texas, Georgia and California
All seven of the local senior mom experts interviewed for this project reside at The Fountains at Canterbury, 1404 NW 122nd Street.
Watermark Retirement Communities Reappointed as Manager for Fountains Portfolio
Watermark Retirement Communities, Inc., formerly Fountains Retirement Communities, has been reappointed as manager for 16 retirement communities previously managed by Sunrise Senior Living, announced David N. Barnes, President/CEO of Watermark Retirement Communities.
“Watermark was the obvious choice for managing the Fountains portfolio because we know the communities so well,” said Barnes.
After selling 18 properties within the Fountains brand to Sunrise in 2005, Fountains Retirement Communities was renamed Watermark Retirement Communities. Over the past four years, with his partner David Freshwater, former Fountains CEO, Barnes has grown Watermark’s management portfolio to 11 communities plus three home health agencies in six states. The addition of the Fountains portfolio brings Watermark’s total managed communities to 27 in 16 states.
“We very much look forward to the coming weeks and months as we personally welcome back so many former residents and associates into the family of Watermark communities. It feels like we’re putting the band back together,” stated Barnes.
Watermark Retirement Communities has owned and operated successful, innovative senior housing communities for more than 20 years. According to Barnes, Watermark is committed to creating extraordinary communities where people thrive and a culture where everyone is encouraged to express their creativity, passion and inner child – to express their true selves. As a result, Barnes says, Watermark communities are full of spirit, character, compassion and adventure.
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