By Elizabeth Roman, The Republican

EAST LONGMEADOW– When seniors move in to East Village Place, executive director Pamela Skiba wants them to feel like they are home.

“This is their new home, and we never want it to feel clinical or cold,” she said.

East Village Place is a retirement community on Benton Drive with a program catering to people with memory loss. Skiba was instrumental in redesigning several rooms in the facility as well as a memory garden for residents in the Pathways portion of the building.

Pathways is a program for people who are suffering from Alzheimer’s and other memory loss conditions. Skiba wanted a place for them to be outdoors which was protected, but still felt like a real backyard.

The garden has a cement pathway encircling a large water fountain and pond designed by Picture Perfect Ponds, of Westfield. The garden also had bright flowers during the growing season, and features trees as well as a seating area.

“One big change was the fence we put around the garden. There used to be a very high solid fence that enclosed the space and made it feel smaller,” Skiba said. “Now there is a more traditional looking fence with slits that allows residents to look out at the street.”

Skiba said she also wanted residents to feel comfortable being outdoors.

“The new garden feels like they are stepping out of their home and into their own backyard. They can bring their relatives out here and sit and have a nice afternoon. We just wanted it to be a peaceful, quiet and comforting environment,” she said.

There were also renovations done inside the building including opening up the community room to make it a free flowing space, installing new flooring and most importantly a fireplace, Skiba said.

“The first day we installed the fireplace, one resident pulled up her chair and sat right next to it, just like you would at home if it was a cold or rainy day. We want them to feel totally at home here,” she said.

East Village Place is privately owned. The $130,000 renovations took several months complete.

“I think the changes have made a big difference so far. It feels so much more welcoming, which is what our seniors and their families need,” Skiba said.

Staff photo by Michael S. Gordon - Pamela L. Skiba executive director of East Village Place in a memorial garden on the property with a waterfall and a fountain.

© 2011 masslive.com. All rights reserved.

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LONGMEADOW - When Claire Maki, 79, moved into a one-bedroom studio apartment at East Village Place, she felt like hanging a "Do Not Disturb sign on her door.

"She said 'I've heard all about you and when you come by my door, just keep going - don't stop,'" recalled Dee Chlebus, community life director at the East Longmeadow assisted-living community.

Maki, a retired first-grade teacher, insisted on staying in her room where she just wanted to nap and watch TV. "I'm a solitary, shy person; I have been all my life," she said.

>p>But Chlebus never gave up and finally convinced Maki to take a course in current events at Watermark University, an academic program that offers physically and mentally stimulating classes at East Village Place.

"I thought the course would stimulate my mind more than sitting and watching television," said Maki. "I just needed to grow, and when I started going to class I made new friends. I loved it, I still love it. It's keeping my memory fresh."

Launched in 2008 Watermark University is structured like an institution of higher learning with courses, a faculty of professors, syllabuses, homework and diplomas. There are 10 major subject areas and more than 30 courses in areas such as spiritual faiths from around the world, brain trivia, art, drama, current events, creative writing, old-time radio and other offerings that give residents "brain and body fitness for life."

"We created Watermark University to help people continue to learn. By learning, people keep their mind active and their bodies fit," said East Village director Pam Skiba.

Brain and body fitness for seniors is a critical mission at East Village Place, so much so that nearly all classes are free and open to the public; members of the community even teach some of the courses.

"It creates that feeling of belonging. When people are isolated they don't do well but when you put them in an environment where they're learning and making new friends, they start to thrive and come alive. Now they have a reason to get out of bed in the morning," said Skiba.

"Memory is something people lose slowly, sometimes imperceptibly. At first, places and dates become fuzzy, then some people forget names and faces and may only remember voices," Chlebus said.

There are three levels of care at East Village Place; assisted living, memory care and advanced memory care. Watermark University is available for all residents, tailored to their specific needs.

"As long as we're keeping their brain and body motivated and moving, it slows down the process of Alzheimer's disease and memory loss," said Chebus. "The more active we can keep people mentally and physically, the more they're able to continue on with a normal life," she said.

Maki has taken a full course load including brain trivia, crossword puzzles, current events, "Sentimental Journey," "Music in Motion," and morning stretch classes - and this is a woman who refused to leave her room at first. She even took a drama course and starred in an onstage production of "How We Met."

"Staying in my apartment would have been a pretty lonely existence," said Maki. "This has definitely improved my quality of life."

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East Longmeadow, MA, December 15, 2010-

Watermark for Kids is a non-profit organization founded by Watermark Retirement Communities. The organization is committed to reaching out to underserved kids so that they may express their true selves and thrive. According to Jill Hofer, Executive Director of Watermark for Kids, "Watermark for Kids is built on three fundamental principles. First, all children have an innate greatness and deserve the opportunity to shine. Second, children are our future leaders and true leadership starts with serving others. Finally, the power of the human spirit can change the world."

 

Corey Drouin has never let the fact that he has Spina Bifida get him down. Despite having to use a wheelchair, he is very active on many adaptive sports teams. He is an avid hockey fan and has a passion for Sled Hockey. Through his friend and teammate, Dan Hesser (a Watermark Kid himself), Drouin was introduced to Watermark for Kids. Through Watermark for Kids, Drouin was presented with state of the art adaptive hockey equipment that allows him to play every week to his full potential and also help teach younger players the game.

 

“Now that I have my equipment, nothing is holding me back from my real potential, and I can give back to others by helping them out like Watermark for Kids has done for me,” says Drouin.

 

Corey Druin, Watermark Kid

 

Pictured from left to right, Dan Hesser and Corey Druin

 

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East Village Place, Assisted Living and Memory Care Community of East Longmeadow will participate in Active Aging Week September 20 through September 26. Active Aging Week is the annual health promotion event of International Council on Active Aging (ICAA), initiated to give as many older adults as possible the means to experience activities and exercise in a safe, friendly and fun atmosphere.

East Village Place will host free events throughout the week for local area seniors to attend. These events will emphasize our own Watermark University philosophy: stimulating the mind and strengthening the body has enormous benefits at any age. Dee Chlebus, Community Life Director states “keeping your mind and body active is not just good for you, but lots of fun too!”

Please join us for any or all of the following events:

• Monday, September 20th at 6:00 pm. Wellness Presentation, “The Wisdom Years” presented by Beth Crowley, Occupational Therapist from Sundance Rehabilitation
• Wednesday, September 22nd at 10:00 am. Nutrition Seminar, “Facts on Fats” presented by our own Registered Dietician Renee.
• Wednesday, September 22nd at 2:30 pm. Musical Inspirational Program, “How to Enjoy your Golden Years”
• Friday, September 24th at 1:30 pm. Musical performance by Liz Carter who sings songs from the 20’s to Today (and even a little country!) 

For more information about Active Aging Week or to RSVP for an event, please call 525-8150.

 

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Trumpet provides lifetime of memories

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

By STAASI HEROPOULOS

EAST LONGMEADOW - Phil Estabrook, 85, has marked and saved Tuesday nights on the calendar in his room at East Village Place assisted living community - Tuesday evening is when he plays the trumpet with a community band in Wilbraham.

"When you get 16 guys together in a band, they can make some noise so you're better off if you're in an auditorium," he said.

Estabrook has been playing the cornet or trumpet for most of his life. He was born at home in North Adams. His mother had a friend who was unmarried and had no children. Estabrook was like a son to her.

"If I wanted something she'd move heaven and earth to get it for me," he said. "She indulged the heck out of me."

The woman was Mary Louise Ashton and she loved music. She was a piano teacher and her father played the cornet. When he died, she gave the instrument to Estabrook.

"It was an old one, but a good one. It had rotary valves instead of what you see now, which are piston valves," he said.

Estabrook began playing the cornet in the fourth grade and continued on through high school. He was always in the band, taking lessons, perfecting his technique, and keeping his eye on a young lady who played the violin a few rows away - a girl named Jacynth.

"We were both in the orchestra and she kind of took my eye. I was in math class with her too and I couldn't keep my eyes off her. We were married for 59 years," said Estabrook.

When Estabrook graduated from high school, World War II was raging and after working briefly in sales, Estabrook entered the Massachusetts Maritime Academy. The academy had no band, so Estabrook played the bugle as he trained for war.

After he graduated from MassMaritime in 1944, Estabrook served as an ensign on the Arcturis, a ship that supported amphibious assaults by delivering trucks, food and supplies to American troops.

When the war ended so did Estabrook's tour of duty, and he went back to playing the trumpet in community bands.

"If you were in the forties you liked big bands, we knew all the musicians like people know vocalists now," he said.

No matter where he worked or what his family was up to, Estabrook played in the band, sometimes performing in concerts for up to 800 people.

Today Estabrook just practices with the band in Wilbra- ham - there are no performances, just rehearsals with other men who come from as far away as New Hampshire to play together.

"To still be able to play for two hours it's like trying to run a marathon," said Estabrook, who still practices every day in his room.

"You got to practice; you have to build your lip muscle. If you're going to play a brass instrument you got to have what we call chops," he said.

Music has given Estabrook two great loves - his wife and his trumpet. Jacynth died five years ago. Now, with memories of their days in band together, Estabrook continues playing the songs he and his wife first learned in high school.

"It gives me great joy - I'm glad I can still do it."

 

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EAST LONGMEADOW, MA

At East Village Place, an assisted living and memory care community managed by Watermark Retirement Communities, people are encouraged to express their spirit, vitality, passions to express their true selves. And the culture isn't just for residents, it's for associates as well. Recently, Watermark Retirement Communities recognized five associates from East Village Place with express your Self awards. These awards acknowledge associates who, by expressing their passion, creativity, leadership, compassion and more, make a vital contribution to the community of East Village Place.

Steve MacNaught, maintenance assistant and van driver from East Longmeadow, received an award for express your Compassion. MacNaught's ability to listen, laugh and care for residents has made him an invaluable member of the team. He also teaches one of the most popular courses for Watermark University, called Journey Back in Time. He picks a year and the class discusses what was happening in the world, what cars were driven, costs of common items and much more.

Pat Pietras, a Certified Nursing Assistant from Chicopee, received an express your Devotion award. Her thoughtful personality and ability to provide care with a sense of kindness is unmatched. Residents often speak of her attention to detail and her commitment to making sure the resident's dignity and spirit are elevated with every encounter.

Dee Chlebus, Activities Director from Chicopee, received an Ambassador Award. Chlebus ensures that all residents feel included and have fun, regardless of their physical or cogntive disabilities. She truly listens and is incredibly creative in building programs to fit residents' individual needs.

Jeff Ross, Food Service Director from Springfield, received an award for express your Innovation. Ross has made the Watermark philosophy and mission his own and offers the best quality food and customer service possible. The quality, presentation and customer service provided in the dining room has exceeded all expectations.

Buddy the dog from South Hadley received the Pet Ambassador Award. Buddy, a 10 year old collie/shepherd mix, is always able to bring a smile to everyone's face. Daily, Buddy walks the halls with his owner, Executive Director Pam Skiba, and stops by to see all the dog lovers in the community. He stops by the programs and makes special "get well" visits to any resident or associate who is under the weather.

"When people are empowered to express themselves – their true selves – at home and at work, they make meaningful connections and Watermark communities are formed," said David Barnes, President of Watermark Retirement Communities. "By fostering this culture for our associates as well as our residents, we create vibrant, fun, creative, successful communities. The express your Self awards are as unique as the associates receiving them."

Buddy Skiba received the Pet Ambassador Award.

 

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Republican, The (Springfield, MA)

October 29, 2008

Edition: Final
Section: METRO SOUTH PLUS
Page: SP1

'University' Offers Brain Stimulation
Author: STAASI HEROPOULOS; STAFF The Republican (Springfield, MA)

 

EAST LONGMEADOW - Dr. Eugene Beauchamp is a learned man. He has earned advanced degrees in medicine, has been a general surgeon in Springfield, and has saved lives.

Now the 81-year old resident of East Village Place in East Longmeadow has begun studying again - at Watermark University.

"It's something to do and keeps your brain working so you don't think today was yesterday or two weeks ago," he said.

Watermark University is what East Village calls its new academic program for residents of its retirement community. There is a full faculty of volunteer "professors" that includes members of the staff and East Village residents. They're looking for community volunteers as well.

More than a dozen classes are offered in the university's course catalog for the fall semester, including Brain Trivia, Jamaican Cooking, Current Events, Pottery, Carving and Woodworking.

"Doc" Beauchamp has signed up for Arm Chair Travel, Brain Trivia and Wood Working along with golfing and bowling on the WII video game system.

"I don't want to sit there like a bump on a log. I don't think I'm a bump yet," he said.

This is the first-ever semester at Watermark University. East Village focuses on keeping its residents physically and mentally fit - "developing the brain's plasticity through physical and mental challenges," said executive director Pam Skiba.

"We lift weights to strengthen our muscles, and our stimulating, challenging Watermark University courses are like lifting weights for the brain," she added.

At the beginning of this semester, course instructors handed each student a syllabus outlining the course of study, assignments and expectations - just as when they were back in college.

Classes meet once or twice a week through December. Each student will have homework and earn a certificate when the course is over.

Dee Chalebus, activities director, teaches Brain Trivia, challenging her students to unscramble words and do word searches as part of her curriculum.

"I try to keep them as stimulated as possible. I hate to see residents sitting around sleeping and not engaging," she said.

There are many benefits of keeping the mind active, said East Village marketing director Jessica Szczepanek.

"Keeping active and learning new things can prolong your brain capacity and zest for life," she said.

"You are actually improving the health of your brain by continuing to try and do new things and using all parts of your brain to do that - the creative, emotional and intellectual sides of your brain," Szczepanek added.

Eighty-year-old Catherine Howard is taking courses in painting, knitting and crochet. She's aware of the benefits of staying active, and the risks of sitting around doing nothing.

"You deteriorate and become no, no," said Howard. "You have to keep your mind active, even if you can't exercise. It's good to learn something new every day."

The students at Watermark University will conclude their fall semester soon - and will be waiting eagerly to begin their new course of studies in the spring.

Staasi Heropoulos can be reached at heropoulos@verizon.net

(COLOR) Catherine Howard, 80, is studying painting, knitting and crochet at Watermark University.

(COLOR 2 - PAGE SP5) Dr. Eugene Beauchamp, 82, a resident of East Village Place in East Longmeadow, has begun studying again at Watermark University.

Copyright, 2008, The Republican Company, Springfield, MA. All Rights Reserved. Used by NewsBank with Permission.

 

 

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Edition: Final
Section: METRO SOUTH PLUS
Page: SP1

Seniors Draw on Life or Creative Artwork
Author: STAASI HEROPOULOS; STAFF The Republican (Springfield, MA)

 

EAST LONGMEADOW - The 1900s were busy, historic times for America - and the people who live here. People like Doris Messenger, Connie Stockwell, and Bill Scheumann.

Each had their own special life and accomplishments - and each now lives at East Village Place, an assisted-living community in East Longmeadow.

They were among the top five winners in a recent art contest, where residents could express themselves in any art medium to reveal, describe and interpret their lives using water color, photography, wood, pen and ink, and knitting.

Messenger won the contest with an essay about her life.

"It was about my whole life, really," she said. "The theme is who was I - and I started out with who was I at 17, then graduated from high school and on."

The residents, their families and visitors voted for the winners from among 37 entries.

The top five winners are sent to Watermark Retirement Communities - East Village's corporate parent in Tucson, Ariz. - where they'll compete against entries from seven other Watermark assisted-living facilities from across the country.

The 13 winning entries will appear on an Expressions calendar that Watermark will publish and distribute nationally to all of its communities.

"Not only do the people here get it, they give it to their families and show it off. But it also goes to the other communities which are spread throughout the country," said East Village marketing director Jessica Sczcepanek.

"It's a creative outlet for them," she said. "A lot of the residents did this artwork before they retired and we want to give them a chance to do that while they're here."

Scheumann is a woodcarver. He created his first piece when he was 9 years old. These days the retired mechanical engineer and West Point graduate carves mostly animals - birds, swans - and even a Santa Claus. The pieces adorn his apartment.

"I enjoy it because I can do it when I want to and stop when I want to. It was relaxation and accomplishment of a certain task - being able to design it and make it."

There is much that these people have accomplished, much that they want to talk about and express through their favorite artistic medium.

"It's a way for people to express themselves where they can share their feelings and thoughts," Sczepanek said. "Times are very different now than when they were painting or writing 20 years ago. It's a great outlet for the feelings that they have."

Stockwell is a painter and writer. She uses few words to express her whispered thoughts and memories. She's been a national finalist for each of the last two years, but that doesn't matter as much to her as the chance to express her feelings.

"I write about what's in my soul," she said. "It doesn't matter at all whether I win or lose. It's relaxation. I do it to accomplish something."

(COLOR) The top five contestants in an art contest at East Village Place in East Longmeadow were, standing from left, Suzanne Clifford, Bill Scheumann and Doris Messenger; and, sitting, Connie Stockwell, left, and Helen Hart.

(COLOR 2 - PAGE SP5) A watercolor of cut flowers by East Village Place resident Helen Hart.

(COLOR 3 - PAGE SP5) East Village Place resident Connie Stockwell painted this watercolor of a green egg in a nest.

(COLOR 4 - PAGE SP5) A carved owl by East Village Place resident Bill Scheumann.

Copyright, 2008, The Republican Company, Springfield, MA. All Rights Reserved. Used by NewsBank with Permission.

 

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