Barbecue Challenge - The highlight at Ramapo Rehabilitation and Care Center's first annual Community Carnival was a heated barbecue contest! The challenge was to prepare your top dish for 5 judges. Salmon sliders, ribs, lamb kabobs were to name but a few of the delicious dishes prepared...top prize $500! All participants received a supermarket gift card.
Caribbean Festival - Sans Souci Rehabilitation and Nursing Center recently held a Caribbean Festival for the Community. Over 150 seniors from the YWCA, Five Star Premiere, Westchester Center and Atria sat under a tent on the grounds of Sans Souci for an exciting afternoon. The tables were decorated with flags from every Caribbean country and Authentic Caribbean cuisine was on the menu. Featured performances by Something Positive, a professionally trained dance troupe, transported attendees to the Tropics! A professional stilt walker , known as a “Moko Jumbie” acted as a human limbo that brought everyone out of their seats to join the festivities. For more information on upcoming events please visit the website www.sanssoucirehab.com
Ortho - Dr. Eric Spencer gave an informative lecture regarding knee osteoarthritis, pain management and joint replacement for the community. A patient, who had recently had surgery with Dr. Spencer's practice, spoke to the attendees about the life changing procedure and the progressive rehab she was receiving at Sans Souci. Potential surgical candidates took tours of the facility and were able to make arrangements for their future stay. For more information about upcoming lectures visit our website at www.sanssoucirehab.com
Lunch & Learn - Meadow brook Care Center recently hosted an informational seminar open to the community. The featured guest speaker, Lucille Hughes, RN, Head Diabetes educator for the Catholic Health Systems, helped dispel the many myths surrounding diabetes. Her lecture covered both type 1 (an auto immune disease) and type 2 (a hereditary disease) diabetes. She discussed the benefits of physical activity as well as the role food choices play in managing blood sugars. Attendees were able to engage in a Q&A session as well as have their glucose level tested by Meadowbrook's nursing staff. Residents from Atria Senior Living and the Sandel Senior Center were among those who participated. For upcoming lectures and events open to the community please visit our website www.meadowbrooklongisland.com.
Groundbreaking
New Hope Center - In the heart of Flushing, Queens a very special place exists. Korean seniors celebrate their long standing traditions of food, dance and song. A culture that focuses on self improvement through learning finds a home at this extraordinary social day program. Members can attend daily and be greated with smiling faces and a warm embrace. Visit the website to find out more. www.newhopedaycenter.com
St. James Psychic Event - St. James Rehabilitation and Nursing Center hosted a celestial evening devoted to the art of the spiritual realm. Tarot cards, palm reading, crystal ball predictions were the focus of the evening’s entertainment. Attendees enjoyed a fun event and had a chance to see the future of the facility as they renovate as well as see into their own futures. Wine, dine and socialize at St James!
Sans Souci Carnival
Leisure Gardens Grand Opening - Nearly 300 seniors were in attendance at the Grand Opening of Leisure Gardens Adult Day Program in the heart of Brooklyn. The annual period of mourning in Judaism, also known as the 9 days culminates on the public fast day of Tisha B’Av. On a beautiful , sunny day following this observance, a magnificent dairy spread was provided. Area seniors enjoyed a lavish meal and live entertainment in a festive setting to see what the program was all about. Leisure Gardens was specifically created to keep seniors active and socializing in a supportive setting. Memories of the afternoon live on!
Sweetheart’s Dance - Members of the Glen Cove Senior Center attended a Sweetheart’s Dance at the Pratt Pavilion Center for Rehabilitation and Healing located on the grounds of The Glengariff Healthcare Complex this past Valentine’s Day. The vital seniors sipped champagne, dined on a delectable dinner prepared by the culinary team at Pratt and danced the night away!
Spectacular Spa Event - Recreation Resources created a fabulous marketing and employee incentive event for Ocean Promenade Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. Employees as well as area Social Workers and Discharge Planners enjoyed a relaxing and rejuvenating evening at "The Seaside Spa". The main dining area was transformed into a tranquil escape featuring massage therapy, tarot and palm card reading, astrology forecasting, paraffin wax, make up consultation and a scrumptious chocolatier demonstration. A harpist added to the already serene atmosphere and attendees enjoyed a fabulous buffet and wine bar. The staff as well as participants at the event stated that this was a unique way to show appreciation and one of the many reasons that Ocean Promenade is such a special place to work and live.
Marvelous Mardi Gras - R & R coordinated a fun and fabulous community event for local seniors. The attendees were transported to New Orleans for the annual festival. Ditmas Park Rehabilitation's dining area was transformed with themed decorations. The afternoon featured an authentic Creole menu, Live entertainment and colorful costumes worn by staff. All who participated donned masks and mardi gras beads and danced the day away to the stylings of Michael Harley, renowned performer.
Experience the Magic of Pratt - Pratt Pavilion hosted their annual open house for the community. Attendees included, local politicians, social workers and discharge planners from major area hospitals as well as members of various senior organizations. The facility provided an elaborate cocktail hour, wine bar and dinner as well as live entertainment. The highlight of the evening was Master illusionist, David Blatt, who mesmerized the audience with his unique brand of magic, infused with humor.
1st Annual International Restaurant Night - Shore View "A Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing" recently held its 1st Annual International Restaurant Night benefiting the Brighton Neighborhood Association. The fundraiser featured donations of signature dishes from many area restaurants as well as wonderful raffle prizes donated by local businesses. Shore View's spacious solarium was decorated with flags from all over the world and attendees enjoyed live musical entertainment provided by Frankie Marra while sampling culturally diverse cuisine (see restaurants listed below). Attendees gave a nominal donation to be a part of the evening with all of the proceeds helping the BNA to continue its missions. Suzanne Hogan, Administrator of Shore View, spoke passionately about the facility's devotion as well as its commitment to serving the community at large. Pat Singer, President and Founder of the BNA was filled with gratitude as she thanked everyone who helped make the event such a success.
First Annual Art Exibit - Ocean Promenade Rehabilitation and Nursing Center held its First Annual Art Exibit this past season. After a year of weekly Art therapy classes the residents were ready to make their debut. The boardwalk in Rockaway Beach, which had been evacuated only days earlier due to Hurricane Irene, was the ideal backdrop to showcase the beautiful masterpieces. The colorful creations ranged from landscapes and seascapes to the abstract and impressionist movements. Under the tutelage of an Art Therapist residents have been taught traditional techniques and encouraged to reminisce and explore in hopes of tapping into their inner artist. Many residents have stated that they find the painting classes, which are usually accompanied by music while overlooking the ocean, extremely relaxing.
Dancing with the Stars - Attendees at this spectacular event were treated to an evening that delighted the senses. The ambience was reminiscent of an elegant affair, complete with passed hors'douvres, a full wine bar, mouth watering carving stations and delectable delicaces. The air was filled with anticipation of the remarkable performance being given by professional dancers of "Rising Stars Dance Studio" The evening culminated in an impromptu instructional Merengue lesson. The evening was enjoyed by all!
1st Annual Summer Carnival at the Pratt Pavilion - Pratt Pavilion held its 1st Annual Summer Carnival for residents, staff and families. The magnificent grounds of Glengariff Health Care Center were the perfect backdrop for a fun filled afternoon. Attendees enjoyed, A petting zoo complete with miniature goats, baby chicks, rabbits and a full grown llama named "Pedro". There were games of chance, face painting, a magic show, casino hour, snow cones, fresh popcorn and cotton candy! While clowns entertained to music from a live DJ the highlight of the aternoon was when a Mr. Softee truck pulled right up into the middle of the action. One resident was quoted as having said "I haven't had old fashioned soft serve ice cream in years!"
Arabian Nights - World renowned Belly Dancer "LaUra" twirled her way into the hearts of the residents at our Moroccan Father's Day Event. While Middle Eastern music filled the air she played finger cymbals and manipulated colorful scarves to the oohs and aahs of the attendees. The evening culminated with Audience participation, laughter and many wonderful memories!
Chinese New Year – R & R client helps bring in "The year of the Rabbit" with a traditional Lion dance performance, delicious tangerines and red lanterns for luck! The lion in the dance is enacted by two dancers. One of the dancers handles the head, made out of strong yet light materials like paper-mache and bamboo. The other dancer plays the body and the tail under a cloth that is fixed to the head. The lion is attended by three musicians, playing cymbals, large drum and a gong. A Little Buddha teases it with a fan or a big ball. The head dancer can shift the lion's eyes, mouth and ears for different expression of moods. The lion dance is a perfect blend of art, history and kung fu moves. Normally the dancers are kung fu practitioners. Every kind of move in the dance has a specific musical rhythm. The music played is in the sync with the moves of the lion: the drum follows the lion where as the cymbals and the gong follows the drum player. Thus flamboyantly vivid and wickedly energetic, the brilliant lion dance bears witness to the vibrant richness of Chinese heritage.
Halloween the R & R Way! – Halloween time is always an opportunity to allow residents to relive their youth, step out of their situations and get into character. Each and every staff member takes their job seriously donning crazy hats, shnoz glasses and silly wigs! Spooky music and decorations galore enhance and transform the atmosphere. Candy, "monster: punch and fun are always on the menu at an R & R event!
Latin Fiesta – The Mariachi Band plays, while residents and staff wearing sombreros sip Margaritas, Daquiris and Mojitos. The afternoon culminates with the breaking open of a candy filled pinata. Once again Recreation Resources help transport residents to a tropical locale.
Everyone wins at Shore View! – Recreation Resources can coordinate fun and fabulous events such as an Open House for their client Shore View, located in the historic and culturally diverse Brighton section of Brooklyn. The spacious solarium was transformed into an authentic Las Vegas Casino complete with slot machines. A spectacular buffet complete with a flowing chocolate fountain was prepared for the local communit. Attendees enjoyed a live Jazz performance while shooting craps, spinning the roulette wheel and trying their luck at various card games in the hopes of winning "funny money". To host an event in your facility contact Recreation Resources today!
Recreation Resources rolled out the red carpet for their client Glengariff Health Care Center at the Grand Opening of their newly renovated Pratt Pavilion for Rehabilitation and Healing. – The guests ranged from administrators, C.E.Os, Orthopedic surgeons and facility personnel of six Long Island Hospitals. They were joined by local politicians, religious leaders and nearly 100 former joint replacement patients for a very memorable evening. As attendees drove up to the magnificent estate that houses this luxurious rehab they were welcomed by a strolling violinist. Many chose to remain outdoors surrounded by the breathtaking views, enjoying delicacies prepared by Pratt Pavilion's own chef – a culinary school graduate, and sampling selections from the wine bar while others took a tour of their newly appointed guest rooms and 4000 square foot Rehabilitation Suite. The main event took place under a tent where more than 200 guests were treated to a fabulous sit down dinner, live music, exciting raffles and the highlight, a slide show presentation by renowned surgeon and philanthropist Dr. Eugene S. Krauss. All proceeds raised from the event benefited The Krauss Foundation for Health and Humanity – a nonprofit charity that supports the provision of joint replacement surgery to underserved individuals around the world. For more information about this event and others please contact Recreation Resources today. To give to the foundation please visit their website www.kraussfoundation.org.
Shore View Community Blood Drive – Recreation Resources helped coordinate a blood drive for Shore View Skilled Nursing Facility "A Center for Rehabilitation", in collaboration with a local hospital, opening their doors to the community. Howard Small, Administrator of Shore View, was the first donor to give blood at what turned out to be a hugely succesful drive resulting in more than 20 pints collected. Stuart Rosenhaus, Sr. Mgmt. Consultant for Coney Island Hospital's Blood Donor Program, informed the participants that every year at this time there is a blood shortage and conducting drives is crucial to help save lives.
Hawaiian Luau – Recreation Resources coordinated an authentic Hawaiian Luau for one of our consulting clients. The facility's main area was transformed to resemble a beach on the shores of Maui, complete with palm trees and birds of paradise. The celebration featured a hula dancer with musical accompaniment who provided costumes for all attendees as well as lessons on the ancient interpretive dance of hula. The residents dined on tropical fruit ambrosia with miniature umbrellas and ethnic cuisine. One resident stated the afternoon was "pure paradise!"
Rock 'n' Roll Sock Hop - Recreation Resources helped coordinate a traditional 50's 60's Sock Hop as part of their "Reminiscence" program. Residents traveled back in time when they walked into the main area of Gold Crest Care Center, located in the Bronx, and it was transformed to look like a school gymnasium from 1958. The staff donned poodle skirts and authentic hairstyles and served root beer floats. Live entertainment rounded out the nostalgic celebration while attendees did the "stroll" down memory lane.
Recreation Resources coordinated a wonderful "Open House" for one of our clients - catering to the healthcare community. Social workers and Discharge planners were treated to a special evening at the "Landmark Spa" at Sea Crest Health Care Center. Attendees indulged in Swedish massages and Paraffin Wax Treatments while others were entertained by a tarot card expert and Palm Reader. In addition to an array of fabulous cuisine, artfully prepared by their chef, there was a boutique vendor presenting the latest in fashion trends. Each person who participated in the lavish event spun the wheel and received a special gift. The evening culminated with a proclamation from the Borough President's office presented to the owner, Mr. Ernest Dicker, for more than 40 years of dedicated service to the Brooklyn Community.
Recreation Resources organized a Vendor's Market for one of our clients recently. There were more than 20 booths with clothing, jewelry, gifts and accessories. All residents of the facility and the surrounding community sat in the lovely garden area – eating hot dogs and hamburgers, authentic Spanish cuisine and listened to live music. There was face painting and cotton candy available as well. The event was a fundraiser with all proceeds going to the Resident Council fund. Events like these help draw in the community and help enhance the quality of life for those individuals residing in Health Care Facilities.
Recreation Resources clients participated in a Senior Educational Forum/Boardwalk Fair in the revitalized Coney Island section of Brooklyn. More than 300 attendees heard speeches by physicians and dietitians regarding age-related diseases, what to look for and how to manage the symptoms. Over 30 companies offering services to seniors were involved. These type of events help showcase facilities to the community.
Shoreview Nursing Home - Brooklyn's premier Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, participated at the recent Brooklyn Senior Expo held at The Rotunda at Kingsborough Community College.
Gold Crest Care Center held a once in a lifetime event honoring a group of individuals whose lives have spanned more than a century. One resident, who turned 105 this past month, proclaimed that she never thought she would be celebrating this milestone. Gold Crest payed homage with a huge Birthday Bash in their honor and a visit by the local Bronx City Councilman, who presented each person with a formal citation from the city.
Glengariff Healthcare Center participated in The 13th Annual Culinary Delights Event in Glen Cove, New York. The event, held on Wednesday, April 28th, took place at the newly renovated and luxurious Metropolitan and showcased the area's magnificent gourmets, including the superbly talented chef at Glengariff Health Center.
Sea Crest Health Care Center, located at 3034 West 24th Street in the Coney Island section of Brooklyn, recently held a Community Health Fair and Expo. Participating vendors provided valuable information about available senior resources ranging from long term care insurance, affordable home care, assisted living alternatives and legal services to protect the elderly. Additionally, the entire health care team at Sea Crest exhibited their individual expertise by providing free blood pressure testing, nutritional counseling, balance testing, diabetes screening and more. A healthy cooking demonstration featuring The Kitchenista (www.thekitchenista.com) attracted a large crowd, and visitors were entertained by a strolling violinist as they entered the spacious and inviting facility situated on the lively Coney Island boardwalk.
For more information about this and other upcoming events please visit www.seacresthcc.com
West Lawrence Care Center held their first Annual Olympics, with a Torch Lighting Ceremony, Wheelchair Races, Pie Eating, Shave a Balloon, Egg Toss and Award Presentation. Customized T-Shirts were worn by participants. As appeared in The Rockawave.
Art Therapy at West Lawrence Care Center
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West Lawrence Care Center, located on Seagirt Boulevard in Far Rockaway, celebrated 50 years of Motown with a "MOTOWN MADNESS" Celebration. Staff and residents had a fun-filled day complete with the music stylings from James Brown to the Supremes. Everyone dined on authentic Soul Food and the staff in attendance were decked out in nostalgic costumes reflecting the period. The residents traveled back in time and danced the day away! As appeared in The Rockawave.
Regulations for Therapeutic Recreation are changing . . .
Art Exhibit at Marquis
