December 2018 Celebrating the Winter Solstice

Assisted Living Residences

Celebrating the Winter Solstice

December 2018

On Friday, December 21st, all who dwell in the Northern Hemisphere will experience the shortest day and longest night of the year?? the winter solstice. Also known as "midwinter" and "Yule," this day has long been an occasion for worldwide celebration. For generations, people have interpreted the solstice as a symbol of hope and rebirth, and scheduled holidays and celebrations to coincide with the day. Although officially the first day of winter, the solstice also begins the gradual lengthening of days in the buildup to spring.

What makes this day so short? During the solstice, the North Pole is tilted at its furthest distance from the sun, at 23.5 degrees. Around midday, the sun appears at its lowest point on the horizon all year. People near the North Pole will have no sunlight at all, while people close to the South Pole will enjoy 24 hours of sunlight.

Different cultures have their unique ways of acknowledging the solstice. In the west, one of the most famous celebrations occurs at Stonehenge. The mysterious pillars of Stonehenge, constructed around 2000 BC,

are arranged in a way that lines up perfectly with the sun's trajectory during the solstice. People travel from all over to observe the sun on this short, cold day.

In China, Taiwan and other East Asian countries, families gather to honor their ancestors and feast on Tangyuan (glutinous, multi-colored rice balls) and jiuniang (rice wine). This is one of the most important celebrations of the year, known as the Dhongzhi Festival.

Around the 3rd century, the Roman Emperor Constantine established the official date of Christmas to coincide with the winter solstice. According to the Roman calendar, December 25th was thought to be the shortest day and longest night. The newly converted Constantine thought it would be a fitting date for the new Christian holiday.

Whether you view this pivotal day as a strictly astronomical curiosity, an occasion for spiritual renewal, or a little of both, we wish you a happy winter solstice and a healthy winter!

Resident and Family Holiday Party

Thursday, December 6 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Celebrate the holiday season with family, friends and staff.

Music & Performance

Community Outings

Classical Pianist MinKyung Oh Sunday, December 2 at 2:00 PM MinKyung Oh has won numerous awards and competitions in Korea, Europe and the United States. At the age of 15 she performed as a soloist with the Seoul Symphony Orchestra and had performances broadcast on television and radio in Korea. She earned her BM and MM with Distinction in Performance from New England Conservatory and a Doctor of Musical Arts from Boston University. Her recordings have been praised by Steve Reich as "a beautiful addition to piano literature." Ms. Oh currently teaches at the Rivers School Conservatory.

Holiday Special with Nancy Day & John Georges Tuesday, December 18 at 2:00 PM An accomplished pianist, singer and composer, Nancy Day consistently thrills audiences with her dynamic performances and infectious optimism. Her vocals have been described as "soaring with emotional brilliance" and her piano playing as "strong, clear and decisive." This month, Day teams up with drummer John Georges for a special holiday performance! Georges' style has been ranked with the likes of Stan Kenton and Buddy Rich. Together, the two will perform a selection of popular Christmas songs, carols and more, along with their usual cross-genre mixing of jazz, ragtime, musical theater, country and enchanting love songs.

Happy Birthday!

Loyola C. Louise D. Dolores D. Joan M. Carol F. Peter B.

December 1 December 4 December 8 December 8 December 11 December 18

The Stockyard

Wednesday, December 5

Depart: 11:00 AM

Return: 2:00 PM

Cost: $ for lunch

Join us for a jaunt to Brighton's famous Stockyard and

let your stomach do your ordering for you! The lunch

menu includes crowd-pleasing appetizers, light salads, the

famous sirloin Stockyard burger, a selection of seafood

entrees and much more.

Jimmy's Steer House

Wednesday, December 19

Depart: 11:30 AM

Return: 3:00 PM

Cost: $ for lunch

A neighborhood favorite, Jimmy's Steer House serves

up prime rib and high quality steaks, as well as delicious

potatoes, burgers, swordfish and more.

Holiday Meals

Please remember to make meal reservations for your holiday guests. Dining Room reservation forms are available at the Reception desk.

If you are planning to enjoy your Thanksgiving meal with guests at Youville Place, please complete the form in your mailbox and we will reserve a table for you. We always welcome guests in the Dining Room, and encourage families and friends to stay for lunch or dinner when they visit. Please provide advance notice so we can accommodate all of our residents and guests.

Merry Christmas!

Celebrate with Pianist Neil Green Monday, December 25 at 2:00 PM Enjoy a wonderful concert following the Christmas meal.

Residents born in December are invited to lunch in the Private Dining Room to celebrate on Friday, December 21 at 12:00 PM.

2

Like Us On Facebook

Visit our Facebook page any time for updates, photos, videos and more. When you "like" us on Facebook, we will send you updates and links to our most recent news. Just search for Youville Assisted Living on Facebook and click "like." See you on the web!

Monthly Highlights...

A Blundering Generation: 1846-1861 Lincoln! Lincoln! Lincoln! with Professor Gary Hylander Saturday, December 1 at 2:00 PM During the election of 1860, the Democratic Party split into warring factions. Lincoln maintained that, if elected president, he had no intention of abolishing the "peculiar institution." Rather, the Republican Party contended that as long as slavery was not allowed to expand beyond the boundaries of the fifteen slave states, slavery would eventually "wither on the vine." However, shortly after his election, seven slave states led by South Carolina seceded from the Union and created the Confederate States of America.

Broadway Seated Dance with Phyllis Rittner Wednesday, December 5, 12, 19 & 26 at 9:30 AM Broadway Seated Dance is a music and dance program for older adults who love the upbeat tunes from movie musicals, Broadway and the popular performers dazzling audiences between the 1930s and 1960s. This program includes a gentle warm up, easy-to-follow body movements and a relaxing cool down. The exercises are designed to improve cardiovascular function, range of motion, muscle tone, posture, circulation and flexibility. Be sure to join us on Wednesday mornings!

ArtMatters Presents . . . Mother & Child Tuesday, December 11 at 2:00 PM Artists have long been fascinated by the bond between mother and child. Their works throughout the ages have depicted this timeless relationship with stunning variety, nuance and innovation. Join us for a look at some of history's most celebrated works featuring the bond between mothers and their children.

Seasonal Songbook with Jack Craig Thursday, December 13 at 1:30 PM Sing along to the traditional carols and lighthearted favorites that are central to our celebration of the winter holiday season. Jack Craig will lead the sing-along and share the fascinating stories behind the songs we've sung for generations. We will sing carols, secular songs and standards of the season.

Principles of World Religions with Professor Jason Giannetti Friday, December 14 at 2:00 PM Professor Giannetti will examine the underlying similarities between apparently disparate religions. The lecture/discussion will explore Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Buddhism. Professor Giannetti received his B.A. degree from Binghamton University, a Master's of Theological Studies from Harvard Divinity School, and a Master's of Near Eastern and Judaic Studies from Brandeis University.

Silent Movie with Richard Hughes Saturday, December 15 at 1:30 PM Master pianist and movie expert Richard Hughes takes you back to the magical era of silent movies. It was a time when films flickered in black and white on the big screen and the action unfolded in pantomime, accompanied by dramatic "mood music" performed live on an upright piano. These vintage films were full of personality, charm and hilarity. In this signature presentation, Mr. Hughes provides live musical accompaniment to a handpicked silent film.

Jazz Talks with Peter Gerler The Roots of American Swing Monday, December 17 at 2:00 PM Most people think of "Swing" as the musical era or movement associated with Big Bands. In this presentation, we will find that swing rhythm can be found in all styles, from the physical actions of plantation work songs and religious celebration to the blues. As Duke Ellington quipped, "it don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing."

Acrylic Painting with Eddie Bruckner Friday, December 21 at 2:30 PM This 1.5 hour class will guide participants through a traditional landscape painting. Working with acrylic paints, instructor Eddie Bruckner will demonstrate different techniques during hands-on painting such as the preparation of materials, color mixing and specific brush techniques.

3

December 2018

Transportation Hours Monday through Friday

8:00 AM- 2:00 PM

PS Salon Hours Thursday & Friday 9:00 AM - 2:30 PM

Manicures w/ Joanne Monday, December 10 & 17

4:30 PM - 6:00 PM

Country Store Hours

Monday, Wednesday & Friday 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

On Site Dental TBA

On Site Hearing Screenings Friday, December 14 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

9:30 Stretch & Flex

1

11:00 Fatima Rosary Group

2:00 A Blundering Generation:

Lincoln! Lincoln! Lincoln!

w/ Gary Hylander

3:00 Winter Warmers

7:00 Movie: Miracle on 34th Street

10:00 Stretch & Flex 10:45 Black Jack 2:00 Classical Pianist

MinKyung Oh 3:15 Sip & Sit Social 7:00 Classic Movie:

The Red Shoes

2

9:30 Balance Challenge

3

10:30 Low Vision Support Group

2:00 The Lives & Times of

Biblical Women Series

w/ Rabbi Natan Margalit

3:30 Bingo

7:00 Movie: The Hundred Foot

Journey

9:30 Stretch & Flex

4

10:15 Advent w/ Mark

11:00 Chaplet of Divine Mercy

2:00 Christmas Tree Decorating

3:00 Ballroom Dancing

w/ Michael Winward

7:00 Movie: The Inn of the Sixth

Happiness

9:30 Broadway Seated Dance 5

10:30 Centering Prayer 11:00 Lunch Trip: The Stockyard 2:00 A Christmas Bouquet

w/ Character Actor Stephen Collins 7:00 Documentary Movie: Landmarks of Western Art:

9:30 Stretch & Flex

6

10:30 Programs Planning Mtg.

1:00 Trans. to Lexington Ctr.

2:00 Music & Musical Film:

Les Miserables

5:00-7:00 Resident & Family

Holiday Party

7

9:30 Balance Challenge 9:30 Shopping Trip:

Lexington Stop & Shop 10:15 Picture Poetry 2:00 Fit for Fall Movement w/ Liz 3:15 Black Jack 7:00 Movie: Spider-Man

9:30 Stretch & Flex

8

11:15 Trip: Reagle Players

1:30 Celebrate Hanuakkah

w/ Alan Pearlmutter, piano

& Linda Poland clarinet

7:00 Movie: How the Grinch Stole

Christmas

10:00 Stretch & Flex 10:45 Black Jack 2:00 Student Recital 3:15 Sunday Sundaes 7:00 Classic Movie:

The African Queen

9

9:30 Balance Challenge 10

9:30 Shopping Trip: Christmas Tree Shop

2:00 Drumming Circle w/ SoulWorks Rhythm

3:30 Bingo 7:00 Movie: Hidden Figures

9:30 Stretch & Flex

11

10:15 Advent w/ Mark

11:00 Chaplet of Divine Mercy

1:00 Blood Pressure Clinic

2:00 ArtMatters presents...

Mother & Child

3:15 Black Jack

7:00 Movie: Parental Guidance

9:30 Broadway Seated Dance12

10:30 Centering Prayer 2:00 Christmas Reflections

w/ Kathleen 7:00 Documentary Movie:

Ancient Mysteries: Mystical Monuments of Ancient Greece

9:30 Stretch & Flex

13

10:30 Nurse's Chat

1:30 Songs of the Season

w/ Jack Craig

4:00 Celebrate Hannukah

@ Happy Hour

7:00 Music & Musical Film:

Cinderella

9:30 Balance Challenge

14

9:30 Shopping Trip: Bedford S & S

12:00 Birthday Luncheon

2:00 Principles of World Religions

w/ Jason Giannetti

3:15 Flower Arranging

7:00 Movie: Mamma Mia!

Here We Go Again

9:30 Stretch & Flex

15

10:30 Cooking with Christie

12:00 Computer 101 with Riya

1:30 Silent Movie w/ Richard Hughes

3:00 Winter Warmers

w/ Girl Scout Carolers

7:00 Movie: The Nativity Story

10:00 10:45 2:00 3:15 7:00

16

Stretch & Flex Black Jack Student Cello Recital Sip & Sit Social Classic Movie: Three Coins in the Fountain

9:30 10:15

2:00

3:30 7:00

Balance Challenge 17

Connecting with Nature: Dipped Pinecone Ornaments Jazz Talks: Roots of American Swing w/ Peter Gerler Bingo Movie: Slumdog Millionaire

9:30 Stretch & Flex

18

10:30 Advent w/ Mark

10:30 Chaplet of Divine Mercy

11:00 Confessions

2:00 An Afternoon of Music

w/ Nancy Day & John Georges

3:15 Black Jack

7:00 Movie: The King's Speech

9:30 10:30 11:30

2:00

7:00

Broadway Centering

Seated Prayer

Dance19

Lunch Trip:

Jimmy's Steer House

World Chocolate Trends

w/ Cocoa Beantown

Documentary Movie:

Pope Francis: A Man of

His Word

9:30 1:00 2:00 4:00 7:00

20

Stretch & Flex Trans. to Lexington Ctr. Forever Fit! North Pole Happy Hour Movie: White Christmas

9:30 Balance Challenge

21

9:30 Shopping Trip: Bedford S & S

10:30 Current Events w/ Pam

1:30 Caring Canines

2:30 Acrylic Painting Class

w/ Eddie Bruckner

7:00 Movie: Home Alone 2:

Lost in New York

9:30 Stretch & Flex

22

10:30 A Morning at the Spa

1:30 Bonus Bingo

1:30 Matinee Movie: George

Balanchine's The Nutcracker

3:00 Winter Warmers

7:00 Movie: Balanchine's

The Nutcracker

10:00 Stretch & Flex

23 9:30 Balance Challenge 24

2:00 Christnas Trivia & Stories

10:45 Black Jack

30 3:30 Bingo

2:00 Painting with Breanna

7:00 Movie: A Christmas Carol

3:15 Sunday Sundaes 7:00 Classic Movie: TBA

9:30 Balance Challenge 2:00 Wordathon

31

3:30 Bingo

7:00 Comedian Mel Smons

25 9:30 Broadway Seated Dance26 9:30 Stretch & Flex

27 9:30 Balance Challenge

28

Merry Christmas

10:30 Centering Prayer

10:30 Coco & Conversation

2:00 Let's Talk Food

2:30 Celebrate Christmas

2:00 December Jeopardy Trivia 2:00 Forever Fit!

1:30 Bonus Bingo

w/ Pianist Neil Green

3:15 Winter Warmers

4:00 Best of 2018 Spectacular 3:15 Flower Arranging

7:00 Movie: It's a Wonderful Life 7:00 Documentary Movie:

Happy Hour

7:00 Movie: Victoria & Abdul

Christmas Unwrapped:

7:00 Music & Musical Film:

The History of Christmas

Shall We Dance

29

1:30 Matinee Movie: When Harry Met Sally

7:00 Movie: When Harry Met Sally

The Celebration of Hanukkah in America

Hanukkah has become one of the most anticipated holidays for Jewish American families - especially those with children. From a purely religious point of view, this winter celebration pales in comparison with the High Holy Days and Passover. Nonetheless, the celebration of Hanukkah has great cultural significance, largely because of what it tells us about the the complicated experience of being a Jewish American in the 20th century.

When the first wave of Eastern Jewish immigrants came to America in the early 20th century, they encountered Christmas, a relatively new phenomenon that had risen to popularity during the Victorian era. Many Jewish immigrants were probably encountering the seasonal trappings of wreaths, ornaments and gifts for the first time. While these festivities seemed harmless enough, the celebration as a whole was distinctly Christian. How could Jews assimilate to this American "holiday season" while remaining true to themselves?

A renewed cultural emphasis on Hanukkah, a holiday that usually occurs close to Christmas, proved to be the answer. Hanukkah commemorates the Maccabean rebellion of the second century B.C., an important military victory in which the Jews persevered against their Greek oppressors and recovered their basic religious and culturual freedoms. This ancient story resonated with the Jewish Americans of the 20th century, for whom religious intolerance was often a menacing reality.

Hanukkah became a modern symbol of cultural perseverance. The celebration of Hanukkah affirmed Jewish identity in America while at the same time establishing a place for the Jewish community in the holiday season. The exchanging of gifts, not originally a part of Hanukkah, became a common feature of the holiday.

Hanukkah starts this year on Sunday, December 2 at sundown. On Saturday, December 8, Alan Pearlmutter and Linda Poland will perform traditional Jewish music on piano and clarinet to celebrate the holidays. On Thursday, December 13, we will celebrate Hanukkah during a special afternoon Happy Hour.

The Tree that Keeps Giving

On Tuesday, November 20, a 46-foot tall white spruce arrived at Boston Common on the back of a truck from Nova Scotia. A town-crier from Nova Scotia was there to present the tree as workers hoisted it off the truck and trimmed the base of the trunk for fitting into a hole dug into the ground.

The tree was not the only cargo delivered by the Canadian emissaries. A bundle of letters arrived from elementary students in Halifax. The addressees of these letters were on site to receive them ? fourth grade pen pals from an elementary school in Dorchester, Massachusetts.

As Chris Cook, Boston's parks commissioner remarked to the Boston Globe, "You have these two cities, two different locations, two different ountries, and you have the spirit of unity and connection bewteen them. I just think it's symnbolic of the best we can be."

The Backstory On December 6, 2017, a massive explosion ripped through Halifax after a ship carrying explosives collided with another vessel in the harbor. Known as The Halifax Explosion, it destroyed virtually every building within a half-mile radius and shattering windows five miles away. Some 1,800 people died, and hundreds more were injured.

As news spread of the disaster, Boston sent a trainload of rescue workers, doctors, volunteers and relief supplies up north. By the time the train reached Halifax, the crew from Boston was able to provide much needed relief that would prove critical to Halifax's recovery.

As an expression of gratitude, Nova Scotia has donated and delivered a prize tree to Boston every year since 1971. Standards for selecting the tree are high: it must be between 40 and 50 feet tall, symmetrical, "attractive," and either a white spruce, balsam fir or a red spruce. Nova Scotians consider it a great honor to have their tree selected and even compete for this privilege.

6

 ................
................

In order to avoid copyright disputes, this page is only a partial summary.

Google Online Preview   Download