For years The Garlands has been known as of the premiere senior retirement communities in the country, a place that truly redefined what active senior living could be. And now we're doing it all over again!

Building on the success that The Garlands and its members have enjoyed, our new Phase II construction aims to provide nothing less then the finest senior living community in the country.

I'll be updating this blog with news of our construction progress, so check back here to watch us grow!

Tom Herb

Labels: active senior living, Chicago assisted living, Phase II, senior living facility, senior retirement communities

If you've visited The Garlands lately, you're sure to have noticed all the activity surrounding construction of the second phase of our upscale retirement community--read all about it on the Phase II Construction Blog. As for this blog, I'll be keeping you up to date on the bevy of others exciting aspects of The Garlands. While we are all thrilled about the new buildings, we also have a fully developed and vibrant community that we're eager to share with you.

Labels: Chicago assisted living, chicago retirement community, chicago senior living, From the Executive Director, upscale retirement community

Join The Garlands Phase II Founders Club and enjoy the following benefits:

- 10% pre-opening savings
- An average $96K savings over opening day
- Discount more than compensates for most lowered home values
- Best locations/views
- Best selection

Plus take advantage of The Garlands complimentary "All the Right Moves" home staging and relocation services. Then relax and dream of living your best life at The Garlands.

To learn more about becoming a Founders Club member, call 847-304-1996.

Labels: active retirement communities, Chicago assisted living, Chicago independent living, chicago retirement community, Midwest retirement home, upscale retirement community, upscale senior living

Please forgive me for not writing, because friends should stay in touch, but this has been a wild time. As I get older any change in my routine turns me upside down, and this holiday season had me chasing my elusive tail.

We had things to wrap in noisy paper with ribbons all over the floor. And then there was a fake tree without any real outside smells. Even my play time and walks outside took a back seat to cookie baking, which I hadn't experienced in a long time; actually that wasn't too bad. As the chief floor cleaner-upper, I did a super job licking up all the sweet stuff that fell in my direction.

And of course the freezing nasty weather put me in a funk. The patio snow was so deep even my caregivers felt sorry for me when I reluctantly rang the outside bell. Oh, did I tell you that my caregivers hung a bell on our patio door? All I have to do is hit it with my paw and, boy, do they come fast. But there is one blessing; kudos to the Member Service Staff. They took pity on me and shoveled path after path for my daily "must dos." They are always ready and willing to help all of us. Aren't we lucky!

A cool piece of good news. Megan and Sarah Seibert, my Barrington relatives (also super buddies) have been promised a humongous gift, one like me, and the family search is on. Several shelters have been visited, paper work completed and recommendations checked. They even match the size and dog personality to the adoptive parents. It seems like the process is taking forever; but whatever, big, little, in-between like me, boy or girl, it will be loved. I'm so excited!!

Speaking of a loving family, I have a new friend at the Garlands, Jan Stojack. When we meet on my scooter rides, she is so happy to see me. A treat is always in her kind hand and praise plus oodles of petting are heaped on my furry coat. She also gives me the latest news about another mutual friend, Max Keller, Harry's dog. Then my outside walking companion, Bucky, has been back taking me out if weather permits. How lucky can one get!

Well guess I'd better sign off before this becomes a tome. Happy New Year! Love, P.D.

Labels: active senior living, Chicago assisted living, chicago retirement community, pd the dog

Phase II of The Garlands is making great strides; our latest progress being in Building D, the superstructure of which was completed on schedule in August 2009. And a model unit--showcasing the luxurious living offered by our new residences--is finished and ready for visitors. We hope you can stop by and take a look!

Other progress you'll notice on your visit:

Roof trusses for this project are quite complicated and have been described by many as a most challenging geometric design. But the challenge has been met and these trusses are nearly complete at the west end of the building with the final roofing scheduled for completion by Thanksgiving.

With the completion of the roof trusses, the huge crane seen looming over our site has recently been dismantled and removed as its work is done.

The installation of the trusses and roofing enables the work on the exterior walls to progress. The exterior masonry is now 85% complete with the anticipated completion of all exterior wall masonry is mid November.

The Garlands goes green:

Insulation board is being installed behind the masonry, and when combined with the fiberglass insulation within the walls, we'll get exceptional energy efficiency in the residential units. In addition, the exterior Tyvek wrap system has been designed and installed per DuPont's standards to include special fasteners and flashing around the windows, all done to provide excellent protection against water intrusion through the exterior wall. All told, these will be extremely well made and efficient residences, which are easy on the heating/ cooling bills, as well as friendly to mother nature.

The east half of the building is already weather-tight, allowing the interior to be finished. The mechanical, electrical, HVAC and plumbing tradesmen have already completed their rough-in work in the east half of the building. In this location, drywall is being installed as well as ceramic tile, wood doors, millwork, cabinets, painting and appliances.

The residential units at the east end of the building will start to approach completion by this year's end. This completion sequence will march west through the building throughout the winter months.

At ground level, the building will begin to take it's final form during late Summer of 2010 when driveways will be paved, landscaping installed and construction trailers removed.

The current schedule targets building completion by October 2010--less than one year away!

Labels: Chicago assisted living, Midwest retirement home, Phase II, upscale retirement community, upscale senior living

Excuse me, please. I've got a gripe, and I just have to get it off my chest. I hate to complain crack out of the box but maybe after I tell you what the deal is, you'll understand. At least those of you who ever have owned a kitten or a cat will get it.

You see, it's now getting cold outside and frankly I love to curl up in the warmest softest spot available. Well, my caregivers have tagged me with a new name, "Cuddle Puss." Do I look or act like a kitten, cat or a four legged animal that purrs or says "meow?" Please, the next time you see us around, set the guy on the scooter straight. My name is P.D. Perfect Dog. And if you believe that, I'll sell you The Garlands' bridge.

Now on a happier note, have I got news for you! Remember I was planning a play date with Toni, the French poodle. Well, it was perfect with one exception. We met as planned, but who was hiding in the bushes...Toni's old boy friend. But he was so fat, with a belly dragging on the ground, that he was no match for Toni's slim figure and swift graceful pace. Of course, I'm used to running along side my scooter, so we out paced him in no time and enjoyed our day together chasing the squirrels and sniffing out other park smells.

And there's more news since the last time I wrote. Stuffed in our cubby were two letters addressed to me. One from Willie and another from Jewel, Bill Youngberg's family buddy. The sad news is that Jewel thinks I'm not big or strong enough to play with him. He didn't even give me a test run. But I have hopes that Willie will come soon for a romp. No way will any other dog take Toni's place, but because she has been shipped off to boarding school, I'm glad to find another friend.

By the way, Jill, do you suppose I could have my own mail box? I've got two snoopy caregivers, and they read my mail before I get a chance to see it. But then, where would I hide the key? I have a big enough problem remembering where I bury my bones. Looking forward to seeing you in the park before the snow flies.

Love, P.D

Labels: active retirement community, Chicago assisted living, chicago senior living, pd the dog, senior living facility

We have recently completed our annual member satisfaction survey, and are excited about the results! We are appreciative of our membership's honest feedback and in general, the news is good (actually, great!). Although there is always room for improvement, we are pleased to report that:

• The average score in 99% of the categories rated "Exceeded Expectations"

• The average score for overall satisfaction among Independent Living members was 3.96 on a scale where 3.0 or higher means "exceeds expectations."

Although the numbers are wonderful, I'm most please by the kind comments we received from our residents:

"I never expected service of this caliber."

"The cleanliness of the entire community is outstanding. A tribute to all the staff involved."

"The work done by staff is excellent. I have had nothing but superior work from every single person. I am always greeted with a cheerful voice early in the morning and late at night!"

"We continue to believe that The Garlands is one of the finest CCRCs in the country.
We are very pleased that we made the decision to live here."

"I am proud to tell my friends where I live, and they seem to be impressed. You are doing a wonderful job."

Labels: active retirement communities, active retirement community, Chicago assisted living, Phase II, retirement community

You just won't believe it, because I don't. After sniffing out the entire neighborhood, just maybe I have found a new companion. I can even "humm..." in the rain when told to go outside. Why? Well, I'll put my paw to a pen and tell you all about my good luck!

After my last letter, I received an unbelievable fantastic response. The writer, a poodle named Antoinette, "just call me Toni," enclosed her picture. She looks yummy enough to chew on, and I dream about slobbering her with more kisses than one can count. Actually, her beauty defies description, and I'll even venture to guess that her groomer comes from France!

Not only did she offer T.L.C. for my painful paw, but she is eager for a play date with just the two of us. She even told me that her old boyfriend is past history. How lucky can a guy get?

Her letter has a special hiding place right under my bed, close to my thumping heart. Do you suppose that they have a pacemaker for dogs? Forget e-mail, Twitter, even Facebook. A letter means so much more for you can keep it forever. And this piece of paper will never be chewed up!

There is one problem, however, that I want to share with you. When and if we meet nose-to-nose, will she accept my funny face? To be honest, I lack those pedigree papers that say that your parents came from special families. Mine, however, so I've been told, were so much in love that it didn't matter, even though my Dad was a Shih Tzu and Mom, a Bichon. I guess you might say their blood lines were "black and white" while Toni is as blue as blue can be.

No doubt, Toni's caregiver, C. Peterson, who owns a greeting card company, sent her to a fancy boarding school, while I had only two hours with the "Dog Man" in Arizona, and he didn't teach me anything (so I've been told). In other words, we come from two different worlds. Do you suppose that matters?

And now I am planning our first meeting on the bridge overlooking our garden pond. Let's hope the bleeping bull frog and honking geese won't scare her away. Wish me luck!

Now, please forgive my abrupt departure for breakfast is ready. And guess what I've barked for: a new tasty passion...French toast. Bow wow!

Labels: active retirement communities, active retirement community, Chicago assisted living, pd the dog, upscale retirement community

Hans and Istvan, The Garlands Gourmets.

"Gourmet food at a retirement community? You gotta be kiddin'!" said my wife, Rita.

"No. I'm not!" I replied. "Istvan Abdai, Director of Food and Beverage, and Hans Ladwein, Executive Chef, have joined culinary forces to create a gourmet night at the Roycroft, our upscale restaurant."

And so off we went . . .

Hans has a reassuring German accent that lends authority to his role as master chef. Istvan prides himself on having studied and mastered the subtle art of matching wine to cuisine, and he describes it in a distinctive Dutch tone, adding to the mystery of the wine.

The Chef's Table was where twenty gathered at the Roycroft about five thirty to begin a gourmet treat. Standing, the members mingled enjoying white and red wines, hors d'oeuvres and excited conversation--an appropriate beginning to the long-awaited evening.

A grand u-shape of tables with white table cloths, scattered flowers, assorted wine glasses and fancy silver cutlery set the mood for "Gourmet." The open end of the u directed us to Hans and Istvan who carefully and knowledgeably prepared us for the meal.

Hans and Istvan detailed the excellence to come: Chilled Swiss Cucumber Soup with a white Riesling Kabinett 2006 from Hirschbach und Sohne— introduced the high level of dining. Then a medley of spring greens, tossed tableside with cider vinegar, olive oil, honey poupon and walnuts. All nursed with a Camelot Chardonnay 2007. Pan-seared Diver scallops (hand picked deep in the ocean) placed over black cappelini in truffle oil and lemon-basil beurre blanc (a rich hot butter sauce with a white wine reduction) announced Hans' five-star ability. Istvan's kept this great food tied-in to the Camelot Chardonnay 2007.

We stopped for an amuse-bouche: a Blood Orange Sorbet, to refresh our
palettes before the main course.

The Marsala glazed lollipop veal chop was set on braised baby leaks. Roasted mushroom potatoes, tomato Florentine and shitake caps blended well with the veal as did the Estancia Central Coast Merlot 2007.

Great restaurants in our "Upscale Senior Living" retirement community demand a great finish to a great meal. Hans hit it on the nose with Cappuccino mousse and chocolate ganache on pomegranate coulis with chocolate and berry garnish.

As we left fully satisfied, I asked, "Are you a convert to exquisite dining here at the Roycroft?"

"I've been converted!" Rita replied, "Can't wait until Hans and Istvan have another 'Gourmet Delight."

Labels: Chicago assisted living, Jack and Rita, Midwest retirement home, upscale retirement community, upscale senior living

Garlands member Mary Barnes studied with Barnet Rubenstein at the School of Museum of Fine Arts as well as Fred Berger from the Evanston Art Center. Mary attended Bowling Green University in Ohio and the Art Institute of Chicago. In addition, Mary has won numerous awards and honors for her work and has exhibited her work in many museums across the country. An accomplished painter, Mary is generously teaching other members in the art of still life painting.
We're proud to have such a talent artist among us, and excited to see what other budding painters she might unveil with her class!

Labels: active retirement communities, Chicago assisted living, Fitness and Activities, upscale retirement community

Throughout my years as Executive Director at The Garlands, I've enjoyed many conversations with our members. And given the inquisitive nature of our members, I've fielded my share of questions as well. It's very important to me to be available and interactive with our community, because 1) I enjoy it, and 2) that's where I get the best feedback on how to maintain The Garlands high standards and lifestyle.

In addition to impromptu talks, we've set up regular Q&A sessions to discuss dining and activities. In addition to these Q&As on general topics, we look for feedback in our suggestion box, survey members annually and ask for their input/act on their suggestions and host monthly chats with the executive director as well as regular "state of the union" member meetings. Community and lifestyle are what's most important to us at The Garlands, and nobody knows how we're doing better than our members who live it everyday. That's why I like to say, "when you're a member here, you've always got my ear!"

Labels: Chicago assisted living, chicago senior living, From the Executive Director, Midwest retirement home, retirement community

If you've been following our better balance report since it started in January, here's a review of what we've learned:

• Your sense of balance needs to be used often to stay in good shape.
• When you were younger, your daily activities exercised your sense of balance and kept it in good condition.
• As you get older, and your activity level decreases, your sense of balance gets less stimulation, causing the quality of your balance to deteriorate.
• Strong legs can help prevent falls and improve quality of life.
• There are many simple changes you can make to your home to decrease your chance of falling there.
• The combination of doing balance exercises, increasing leg strength, and reducing tripping hazards gives you the best chance of avoiding falls, maintaining independence and enjoying a high quality of life.

~Mike Ross, author of "The Balance Manual,"

www.balance-exercises.com

Labels: better balance report, Chicago assisted living, Chicago independent living, Fitness and Activities, senior retirement communities, upscale senior living

Many of our members sell their homes before moving to The Garlands, so we know that prospective members may be thinking about putting their own house on the market right now. Here's a tip we recently came across: list your home with a very exact price--like $472, 775, instead of $475,000. Sound bizarre? Well, a recent Cornell University study found that homes actually sell for more when the list price is exact.

The researchers found that in a sample of 30,000 recently sold homes in New York and Florida, having a terminal zero in the list price lowered the ultimate sales price by .72%. Psychologically, people tend to see numbers that end with zeros as larger than those that don't, hence the marketing gimmick of everything ending in .99 or .95. And a number like $472, 775 will show up in more Internet searches since people often look in ranges that a round number could be left out of.

So if you want it to sell high, make it exact!

Source: The Price is Right by Jan Cullinane

Labels: active senior living, Chicago assisted living, chicago senior living, garlands blogger, senior living facility, upscale retirement home

The number of retirees that are taking control of their health and joining fitness centers is growing every year. In this installment we will look at how a traditional senior fitness program affects your balance. The chief reason people go to the health club is because their daily lives don't provide enough movement to keep them in good shape. The various machines at the club help fill that activity void. Since we don't have very much time, we try to fit an entire day's worth of movement into an hour or two at the fitness center. Walk on this. Pedal that. Pull this down. Press that up. Go home.

The only problem is that when you use machines for cardio and strength training, you are leaving out one crucial ingredient--balance. Think about the treadmill. You are walking, but you are also holding tightly onto the handles to keep you balanced. There are no curbs or potholes to dodge, no rabid dogs to get away from, just you in a perfectly controlled and unchallenging environment. How about a typical exercise bike? What are the chances that it might tip over? I would say about slim to none. As far as balance goes, most exercise bikes are about as demanding as lying on the couch. What about strength machines? Almost all of them require you to sit during use. Some even have seat belts (why don't they include cup holders while they're at it).

You get the idea. If you use these machines like many seniors do, you may become strong, and you may improve your endurance, and I think that's great. Unfortunately, they won't do much for your balance. Having strong muscles and good endurance without good balance is like having a truck that has four hundred horsepower and gets fifty miles per gallon but tips over every time you turn a corner.

That's why you need to train your balance with balance exercises. Better balance will enhance the benefits of both strength and cardio training. In just ten minutes a day, you can train your sense of balance to keep it in shape or even improve it. You can do balance exercises at your health club or in your home whenever it's convenient for you.

Stay tuned for Part 4 where we'll take a closer look at balance exercises.

Mike Ross
Author of "The Balance Manual"
balance-exercises.com

Labels: active retirement communities, active senior living, better balance report, Chicago assisted living, Fitness and Activities, senior living facility

Do you have a fear of falling? Do you feel less steady than you used to? Many would say this is just a natural part of getting older, but there's a lot more to it than that.

You've probably heard of the "use it or lose it" principle in regards to health and fitness. It basically states that if you don't get enough physical activity, your heart, bones, and muscles will get weaker. This principle also applies to balance. If you don't regularly put your body in situations where it needs balance, your sense of balance will get worse. You are telling your brain and body, "Balance is not important to me." Your body will adapt to your lifestyle. The brain generally does not see any reason to keep certain capacities adept if those capacities are not being used very much.

After a certain age, many people start to move less and less. This usually happens after retirement. Take a minute and think about how much activity you get on a typical day compared to twenty years ago. Generally, as we get older, activities that involve a lot of movement (like sports, yard work, and playing with kids) are slowly replaced with activities that involve a lot of sitting (like reading, watching TV, playing cards, and going out to eat).

Here's the problem--movement requires balance, sitting does not. The activities you were doing when you were younger were not only keeping your heart, bones, and muscles strong--they were also keeping your balance in good shape. Over the years, as time spent moving decreased and time spent sitting increased, your sense of balance got less "exercise," which allowed it to deteriorate. Now here you are, years later, with a sense of balance that is a shadow of its former self.

The good news is that the "use it or lose it" principle is a two-way street. Everyone knows that you can train your heart and muscles to make them stronger. You can also train your balance as a part of active senior living lifestyle. Stay tuned for Part 2 in the series when we will examine a common ways to help with poor balance.

Mike Ross
Author of "The Balance Manual"
balance-exercises.com

Labels: active senior living, better balance report, Chicago assisted living, chicago retirement community, Fitness and Activities, Midwest retirement home

At The Garlands, we believe that a life of continued learning is a big part of a well-rounded lifestyle. As such, our active senior living community is proud to present the following Harper College sponsored lectures and events as a part of our Lifelong Learning Center.

Short Story Treasures
Through May 18, 10am-Noon in the Robie Lounge
Edith Maynard returns to facilitate this favorite class. You need to purchase the book prior to class date. Please contact Jill for more information.

American Jazz in Paris
Friday, May 22, 1-3pm
European critics embraced jazz before anyone in the United States wrote anything complimentary about the music. The reasoning is wrapped up in the cultures of both France and the United States. Scott Cashman will discuss the cultural and historical implications of jazz in both the United States and France while listening to the music from the earliest period to the present as it has been played in the City of Light. Scott Cashman earned a Ph.D. in Anthropology by studying the economics of being a jazz musician in Paris.

Great Decisions Sampler
Tuesday, June 30, 1-3pm,
Try it, you'll like it! Register for this course and get a sample of our Great
Decisions Discussion class. Join Enrico Chiappetta for a lively exchange of opinions on "Dealing With Iran." Prior to the discussion you will receive a briefing booklet prepared by the Foreign Policy Association. You must register by June 15 in order to receive the materials.

Labels: active senior living, Chicago assisted living, chicago senior living, From the Executive Director, Midwest retirement home

Skilled Nursing Program Earns 5-Star Rating

Prairieview at The Garlands skilled nursing program recently earned an overall five-star rating by the federal government's Center for Medicare Services (CMS). Prairieview at The Garlands offers around-the-clock assisted living and skilled nursing services within the context of the Garlands of Barrington's premier Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) located in Barrington, IL.

Prairieview's skilled nursing program is one of the only skilled nursing programs within a 25-mile radius to earn a five-star overall rating and consistently top marks for health inspections, staffing and quality.

"This is a remarkable accomplishment and a true testimony to the quality and
value The Garlands skilled nursing program offers our residents in the event
they should ever need short-term rehabilitative or long-term care services,"
says Thomas S. Herb, President of Barrington Venture Holding Company LLC,
owners and managers of The Garlands.

Due to state licensing agreements, access to the highly rated skilled nursing program at Prairieview is limited to members who currently live within The Garlands CCRC as independent living or assisted living members. As such, the peace of mind that comes with having access to such top-notch care should it ever be needed is an added benefit for Garlands members and one to consider when looking into The Garlands lifestyle for yourself or a loved one.

The CMS Five-Star quality rating system helps consumers, their families and caregivers compare nursing homes more easily. The ranking system is important because skilled nursing programs vary in the quality of care and services they provide to their residents. Reviewing health inspection results, staffing data, and quality measure data are three important ways to measure nursing home quality. This information gives consumers a "snap shot" of the care individual nursing homes give.

For more information about the CMS ratings visit www.medicare.gov and select "nursing home compare."

Labels: active retirement community, Alzheimer's Care, Chicago assisted living, From the Executive Director

The Card Players by Paul Cezanne

The Card Players

Thursday afternoons: two o'clock--sacred time for the men at this active retirement community. Usually, fourteen gather before two o'clock to draw for a seat at the different tables. The men chat; little gossip, lots of sports, hints of politics but many "Ifs"--if I'd only caught a club, if I'd held onto my ace, if I'd stayed-in--I'd a won. Maybe! Marvelously, poker focuses on improving short term memory. After every hand, we test each other by asking, who dealt? Six or seven at the table think about it. Eventually a player recalls, and the game goes on. Constant memory exercise.

Good card games have great characters playing. Let's mention some of them: Organizer is first to set up poker-chips for each player. $10 required to play and another $5 in case of a bad-luck day. Lose $15 and you're out. This happens. Chips: blue 50¢, red 25¢ and white 10¢. Small money, lots of fun. Creator's long chamber list of crazy 'Dealers Choice' games maintains our interest. Some players get in a rut dealing the same game over and over again, seldom playing other great games, especially from Creator's list

Avocateur thinks winning is just the luck-of-the-draw and talent is baloney. Studying the case proves talent wins over time. Impatient signals a good hand by asking others to bet quickly--he's never that attentive with a weak hand. Analyzer fingers his cards tenderly, peeks at them repeatedly, verifying their strength before betting and then cajoles all to play properly.

Betting patterns tell stories about players' hands. Dropper quits game after game waiting for good cards. When Dropper, raises or bets--look-out--he's loaded and will take your money. Cautious, on the other hand, is always figuring the odds of winning, like trying for a bridge grand slam. Cautious drops out of some games with a winning hand--his losses are treasured by all.

The subtleties of poker are often spoiled by players dropping out-of-turn because of a poor hand. Bluffer tries now and then to win by bluffing, but is foiled when Impatient throws his hand down, out-of-turn, forcing the weak player before him to call Bluffer just to keep him honest.

Avocateur now respects evidence showing there is more to winning at poker than luck alone. There are regrets that other remarkable players like North Star, (a natural card counter), Accountant, (alertly tracks bets and antes) and Seven (lucky number fan) sat at the second table. Names have been changed to protect the Bluffer. Sharing this active senior life is a special joy for all. Come join us Thursdays.

Jack Roche

Labels: active retirement communities, active senior living, Chicago assisted living, chicago retirement community, Jack and Rita, senior retirement communities, upscale senior living

In addition to our exciting Phase II construction, Prairieview's memory care program, which typically receives very little public attention, is also growing. What is most important to note about this program is that our members--particularly their caring families--are quite pleased with our specialized memory care services. In fact, The Carroll family, a lovely family of six kids from the northwest suburbs, recently shared their family's story with us as testimony to our program. As Frances, the eldest daughter says,

"Our mother taught all of her kids the fine art of caring. With the help of the people at Prairieview, we are honoring her legacy."

As you read through their family's experience with Alzheimer's Disease, their rationale for choosing Prairieview for assisted living needs and their experiences with the program, we think that, like us, you will be very pleased with the services we offer families who are on this very difficult journey.

Labels: active senior living, Alzheimer's Care, Chicago assisted living, chicago retirement community, chicago senior living, From the Executive Director, upscale retirement community

Early on, our crew made the decision to use metal stud partitions that are prefabricated off site. Why? First and foremost, the panels arrive in nearly perfect condition. Producing precisely sized, beautifully square panels like these is very difficult on a work-site, and the time spent reworking them into shape is time we'd rather spend on the building itself. The panels are fabricated on an assembly line in Alpharetta, Georgia that has been designed specifically for our application and then shipped to our site here in Barrington, Illinois. This decision has saved us money and time, allowing us to maintain the brisk construction schedule for this grand addition to our upscale retirement community.

Labels: Chicago assisted living, chicago retirement community, chicago senior living, Phase II, upscale retirement community

Despite the constant barrage of cold weather, construction of the "Phase II" addition to our upscale retirement community continues to progress right on schedule. The crew is currently assembling the superstructure of the new building, which consists of load bearing wall panels, structural steel beams, metal decking and the pouring of concrete floor slabs. Construction on the west wing has began with the framing of the 1st floor, while the central section has now sprouted a 2nd floor, and work on the eastern wing is now all the way up on the 4th floor. We plan to begin putting up roof trusses and installing roof materials in the spring.

With many lower levels now enclosed, construction has sped up considerably--who doesn't like working indoors on days like these? Our tradesmen have completed over half of the suspended plumbing, electrical, and fire protection piping. The large intake/exhaust fans and their related runs of ductwork are now up. The installation of the electrical vault for the new power system is scheduled to begin next week--a critical milestone for all construction projects.

Labels: active senior living, Chicago assisted living, chicago retirement community, chicago senior living, Phase II, upscale retirement community

The men of our upscale retirement community quickly embraced the fitness course set up by our trainer, Sandra Sieber. This New Year they promised themselves to stay in condition during 2009. They flexed their muscles and then followed Sandra as she gently guided them through a systematic exercise of the body.

They raised and lowered legs, bent their ankles and toes, then stretched the knees and thighs, carefully working all their muscles up to and including shoulders and necks--nothing omitted. (The Dry Bones song came to mind: the foot bones connected to the ankle bone...)

Sandra had the men do squats using chair support, if needed. Personal assistance by her helped members occasionally, but generally not required because the careful flexing of body avoided any macho activity. After class, some men used the modern exercise equipment to pursue a circuit: working one machine after the other. Sandra evaluates individual physical needs and limitations and suggests which machines to work and how to operate each safely.

Peeking into the ladies "Cane Do" class led by Jill Lund, Director of Activities the women wore black Top hats, carried a cane and danced to Broadway music. Several Ginger Rogers types in the group kept the action lively. The exercise was fun and not too strenuous. The women talked, more than the men did, about the New Year and resolutions. Their goals--weight loss, tightening of certain muscles, more use of exercise equipment and dieting.

Some ladies at the fitness center follow their own plan. The treadmill, with TV screen and earphone sound, is a favorite. The Power Plate, a vibrating platform, is a well used innovation to alleviate muscle problems.

Members say they feel better after exercise and they look better--active senior living at its finest. The group camaraderie encourages members to participate regularly. And, Sandra is there to help each member improve. Come join a class!

Labels: active senior living, Chicago assisted living, chicago retirement community, chicago senior living, Jack and Rita, upscale retirement community

As one of the premiere active retirement communities in the country, The Garlands has a first rate theater. And now, the wait is over! Director George Flint named the full cast for the play reading of the three-acts play, The Man Who Came to Dinner, written by George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart. Just as on Broadway, many actors and actresses were excited with their parts, while others were disappointed having personally visualized a different choice role. Some did not win a desired spot in the play reading.

George, a former Owner/Director of the Renaissance Theater, San Diego, CA commented to the aspirants at the casting session about the acting profession. Paraphrasing George--one learns quickly the exhilaration and despair of the Theater. Joy comes easily when winning a part, while rejection hurts. It is the way of life in the Theater that must be managed.

The movie, released on New Years Day 1942, starred Monty Woolley, Bette Davis, Ann Sheridan and Jimmy Durante among others. Here is the list of our Thespians selected by George.

Congratulations to all!

Sheridan Whiteside....................Dick Matre
Mr. Stanley.................................Jack Roche
Mrs. Stanley...............................Mary Betz
June Stanley...............................Esther Marshall
Richard Stanley..........................Carl Peterson
John............................................Don Reed
Sarah...........................................Cary Loomis
Miss Preen..................................Carol Holmes
Mrs. Dexter/Mrs. McCutcheon..Betty Guthrie (Both parts)
Maggie.........................................Rita Roche
Bert Jefferson..............................Chuck Allison
Lorraine.......................................Janet Hansen
Dr. Bradley..................................Len Wickland
Harriet.........................................Marilu Matre
Banjo............................................Ron Silver
Beverly Carlton............................George Flint
Westcott.......................................Connie Porth
Expressman.................................Dave Guthrie

Rehearsals will be after winter vacation in March and April.
Opening Night: 7:15 PM Wednesday, April 22, 2009 in the Performing Arts Center.

Break a Leg!

Jack Roche

Labels: active retirement communities, active senior living, Chicago assisted living, chicago retirement community, chicago senior living, Jack and Rita, upscale retirement community

A new challenge, from the Lutheran Community, Arlington Heights, to compete playing eight-ball pocket billiards, home and away, was accepted. The new challenge reminded us of their first challenge a year ago. The Garlands had no team when the challenge arrived, but we accepted it at once. Our Director of Activities, Jill Lund, talked up the challenge and convinced eight of our braver men to volunteer for the battle. They practiced on occasion, but not seriously--maybe they were concentrating more on the bus ride and free lunch.

Excitement and optimism was high as the Garlands bus stopped at Lutheran Community. That's when our optimism was shaken because a dozen men greeted us, each wearing a green polo shirt with their team name printed on the front, and most of them carried their own private cue-stick in a dark leather case. These men were like professional billiard players not simple retirees. We lost five games to three there but then they came to the Garlands and destroyed us seven games to one. Later, the code expression W.C. (Who Cares) eased the temporary embarrassment of our team.

History has a way of repeating itself. This year we tried again and proudly went off to battle the Lutherans wearing our new colorful blue monogrammed game-shirts loaned to each Garlands player for the billiard tournament by our activities group. I couldn't tell whether our new flashy shirts impressed our opposition but I can tell you that their private cue sticks still bothered us because they looked so professional. They won at their home again, five games to three--we almost tied four games to four but scratched sinking the eight ball, an automatic loss.

Our active retirement community still doesn’t have an official team, but many of us actually practiced for the return match. Spirited and optimistic, our men could hardly wait for lunch to finish, in order to beat our friendly adversaries. We played 16 games, alas, they won 12 games to four. It was interesting to note that one of our two-man teams won three out of four games and that team practiced regularly. That must be the key--practice. Our billiard team has adopted the Chicago well-known sports lament--Wait 'till next year.

Labels: active retirement communities, active retirement community, active senior living, Chicago assisted living, Jack and Rita, senior retirement communities

Rita and I walked rapidly to the Performing Arts Center (PAC) at the Garlands carrying our scripts of the three-acts play, The Man Who Came to Dinner, written by George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart in the late 1930s. Garlands member George Flint, a retired surgeon and former owner and director of the Renaissance Theater in San Diego, CA. invited all members to try out for a part in his new play reading.

George aided by his wife, Vally, is the successful team now directing their third play reading for the Garlands. The members in the PAC, when we arrived, talked excitedly about the various characters in this lively comedy--each wondering which part they would get. Viewing the original movie a week earlier helped all to understand the play.

The full room now included members just watching how casting is done professionally. The talents and limitations of many members are well known to George because of prior performances; still all aspirants are welcomed equally. George, starting with the major roles, invites various members to read selected parts and then he encourages others, not selected, to try for any part--and many do.

The readings create much local humor and laughing caused by mistakes: mispronunciation, missing cues, reading someone else's lines... and more. It is great fun and camaraderie. George is very patient and understanding, but does stay on target guiding us to make real the script. After a day of guessing who gets which part, George will announce the chosen cast and rehearsals will begin.

The biased audience of members, relatives and town people will have an exciting time "Opening Night." Stay tuned for unbiased observations! :=)

Jack Roche

Labels: active retirement communities, active retirement community, active senior living, Chicago assisted living, Jack and Rita, senior retirement communities

The trek may be virtual, but the benefits are real.

A group of Garlands members are on a their way to Paris (more than 4,140 miles away from Barrington) by walking, swimming, biking, even climbing! About 40 men and women--all senior citizens--are participating, counting the miles logged while exercising against their goal. They're currently just over half-way. Members report that having a goal makes exercise easier and more fun.

Au revoir! See you in Paris!

Labels: active senior living, Chicago assisted living, Fitness and Activities, senior living facility, senior retirement communities

We have every reason to believe we can meet our first milestone of having the first third of the building under roof by the end of the year. The process involves:

• Finishing the support columns in the basement
• Pouring the slab on grade in the basement
• Framing the eastern third of the building by floors 1-4
• Setting the roof truss system
• Placing the roof to "dry in" the areas beneath so that the following trades of mechanical, electric and pluming can start their work

This new Phase II project is going to change the way you think about active senior living, check back often for more updates!

Labels: active retirement communities, active senior living, Chicago assisted living, Phase II, senior retirement communities