Short Trips From The Garlands
posted by Jack and Rita: Friday, February 26
Our daughter Jennifer said to our grandchildren, nine and five, "Buckle up Zachary and Natalie. We're going to Langendorf Park for a picnic and then for a swim in their great pool." Natalie, using her best fake cry, sobbed,"I want to swim in The Garlands pool. I like it." Grandma Rita says, “Our pool is closed for repair. You'll like the Park pool, believe me." "Ready to launch," shouts Zachary. "All seat belts attached." Ten minutes later, we parked at the Langendorf. The children ran off to the slides and climbing bars while we prepared a summer picnic: hot dogs, bratwurst, soft drinks and desserts. After lunch, the walking trail helped us work off some of the food. Langendorf has a wading pool and the main pool. The slides and high jumps excited the grandchildren. Zachary and others made several dozen leaps and slides from the highest points. Natalie, not to be out done, climbed nearly to the top. Sun and activity tired us, ending a wonderful day. Next day, after church on Sunday, we drove north thirty miles to Volo to see the unusual quaking bogs and then on to the Volo Auto Museum. The children found the bogs a fun playground, although not as exciting as the auto museum. Hundreds of old cars, refurbished like new, sat bumper to bumper for easy inspection. Grandpa saw a 1957 Chevrolet Impala just like the one he had owned. Good for Grandpa, but the grandchildren loved the cars from movies like the Scooby Mobile, Nightrider's Kitt, Flintstones car, Batmobile, etc. Again, the hours evaporated. We must head home. No time to visit our favorite restaurant Le Vichyssois in Lakemoor suggested by Vette Kell or to the Moraine Hills State Park, site of a glacial moraine in McHenry County that Hal Guenther praises. We will have to wait another day to make these short trips with our family. Later in the week, Rita said to me, "What a great weekend we had with the grandchildren, now, I've set up a double-treat for us." "Double-treat, what can that be?" She responds, "Two visits on Wednesday: the Chicago Botanical Gardens and the show at the Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire." "Oh, that's too much in one day." "No. It's easy. We drive East on Lake-Cook Road twenty miles to the gardens, have late lunch, see the exhibits and when ready drive fifteen minutes to the theater for a performance at Marriott's Theater-in-the-Round. It worked out just as she planned a great introduction to Chicago's famous gardens and the Marriott's renowned theater. Musing a bit about our Senior Living Community and its great location, I remembered that the following Sunday The Garlands courtesy limousine would drive us to the Barrington railroad station to take a train to Chicago for the Sunday matinee of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, an hour ride at no charge for seniors. Location is a real asset to us here at the Garlands! See Jack, Rita and the Kids below at the Volo Auto Museum.   Labels: active retirement communities, active retirement community, active senior living, Jack and Rita, senior living, upscale retirement community
Phase II Update--November '09
posted by Tom Herb: Thursday, December 3
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
P.D. Strikes It Rich!
posted by P.D. the Dog: Friday, October 2
 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
Gourmet at The Garlands
posted by Jack and Rita: Thursday, September 10
 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
AMERICAN LION: ANDREW JACKSON IN THE WHITE HOUSE
posted by Garlands Blogger: Tuesday, August 18
By Jon Meacham With her dramatization of Jon Meacham's widely acclaimed biography of Andrew Jackson, Barbara Rinella presents another astounding portrait of a great American, though our seventh President was a man of contradictions who certainly had his critics! From very humble log cabin beginnings, a boy whose father died weeks before he was born and who would become an orphan by 14, Andrew Jackson rose to become the first common man to be elected President of the United States. He is said to have defined the modern presidency. What were the hardships that created this tough and fierce backwoodsman who truly earned the nickname, "Old Hickory?" Recognizing that life is never easy, Jackson stated simply, "I was born for a storm." How was his vision for the country formed by battles, disappointments, hardships, losses and victories? What needs would engulf a person who hungered for family? Will his beautiful wife, Rachel, appear to enlighten us about their exciting love, their improper marriage, her feelings about a husband that is elevated to idolatry as the hero of the Battle of New Orleans and her heartbreaking--literally--treatment by the media? Perhaps it will be the very lovely, strong-willed Emily Donelson, Rachel's niece and wife of Jackson's nephew and ward, who will appear to tell of her aunt's romance and death, which would result in Emily's role as Jackson's White House hostess. Who will come forward to explain the scandal surrounding Margaret Eaton, wife of Jackson's Secretary of War, that brought the destruction of a Presidential Cabinet and ignited the gossip mills of Washington, D.C.? There are many others who could comment on Jackson's actions and reactions. Native Americans certainly have an opinion on the President who fought for Indian removal, believing it to be necessary and practical. Friends who enjoyed the rewards of Jackson's "spoils system" would probably rave about the perks of patronage and political loyalty. Citizens of South Carolina, so upset by President Jackson's strong federal policies that they worried about losing states' rights, might voice thoughts of nullification and even secession. Will looking at Jackson's image on the $20 bring thoughts of his concerns about the Bank of the United States? Turbulent times demanded strong leadership and daring decisions. Andrew Jackson, the man of the people, saw America as his family--a union, one and inseparable! He brought a lion's strength and roar! "He dominated the times, and the evidence of his strength and the aura of his authority led some to think of him as the 'Old Lion.' " Please, come meet the American Lion and his friends and family! Barbara Rinella Luncheon and Dramatic Book Review Friday, September 25, Doors open at Noon, Lunch at 12:30pm, Performance at 1:30pm, $28 Member Fee, $35 for Public Labels: chicago retirement community, garlands blogger, retirement community, upscale retirement community
Elgin Symphony Orchestra
posted by Jack and Rita: Friday, March 13
Members gathered around the concierge desk at the reception center waiting to launch our journey to the Elgin Symphony Orchestra. We received our prepaid Orchestra tickets and invitation to have "Lunch with the Maestro." The Garlands bus arrived about 11 AM driven by one of the Member Services drivers who courteously placed a portable step at the bus door to make it easier for everyone to enter. Seventeen of us chose seats randomly with spouses or friends. Our driver loudly welcomed seventeen and promised to return seventeen. The early departure time assured the on-time arrival for lunch and the anticipated comments by the Music Director, Robert Hanson, about the scheduled composers. Off we went on schedule for the forty minutes drive to Elgin. Quick 'how are you' and 'hellos' attuned all for the ride. We settled into our own conversations about family, friends and the performance. Many good comments about the Elgin Symphony Orchestra and its Conductor Robert Hanson could be heard. The bus pulled in front of the Heritage Ballroom in downtown Elgin, just across from Hemmens Theatre, where our lunch and lecture would be held. A friendly docent led us to a large bright hall with round tables each seating ten. We chose a table close to the front in order to hear the lecture better. Lunch was served promptly, and during desert Music Director and Conductor Hanson talked about the two great composers featured: Tchaikovsky and Shostakovich. He related stories about their lives and contrasted their philosophies and composing techniques. His talk was well received. Most of the Garlands member seats were in row L center, just about perfect. A few of our members had seats in front of us, but the group was together. Musicians arrived, tuned their instruments and arranged their scores for the performance. The Conductor entered quietly to much applause, bowed politely and started the concert: a Tchaikovsky Concerto and a Shostakovich Symphony. Two hours of great music made wondrous our Friday afternoon. The waiting Member Services driver helped seventeen back to their seats, counting a second time to be sure no one was left behind. Then, we departed for Barrington. All were pleased with the trip, the lunch and lecture, and above all, the quality performance by the Elgin Symphony Orchestra. Our members continued the discourse about the talents of the composers--Tchaikovsky and Shostakovich. Back to our upscale retirement community just after four, and pleased with our day--nap-time beckoned. Labels: active retirement communities, chicago retirement community, Jack and Rita, Midwest retirement home, upscale retirement community
World Class Care at Prairieview, Just Like Home
posted by From the Executive Director: Tuesday, February 10
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
Load-bearing Partitions Arrive From Peachtree State
posted by Tom Herb: Wednesday, January 28
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
Record Cold Doesn't Deter Garlands Crew
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
Little Shelves
posted by Jack and Rita: Monday, January 26
 I enjoy the walk from my apartment to the other buildings and activity sites of our upscale retirement community: Resource Center, Surround Sound Theater, Performing Arts center, Fitness Center, the bank and gift shop etc. The pleasurable beauty of the Prairie style architecture, and the cool ceiling and door lighting fixtures are never tiring. I marvel at the information freely given by my neighbors at each door I pass. I use the name plaques to reinforce my memory and visualize those I know. For those I have not yet met, I embed the name in my mind, until I meet that neighbor. But, my favorite pleasure is stopping to closely look at the Little Shelves outside most doors. Take a look yourself and discover some of the special interests of your neighbor. The Little Shelves reveal a lot. I gaze at shelf photos of members and family--many grandchildren. Some photos of good times, long past, and good times just lived. How nice they look, then, now and during the passage of time.  Squeezed onto these Little Shelves are flowers, real & artificial, highlighting the seasons or special meanings. Many arrangements, carefully designed, are beautiful. One will never go hungry during a stroll around our buildings because members offer a variety of sweets to those passing by: chocolates and hard candy. Like the flowers, the types of candy differ at Easter, Halloween & Christmas. The souvenirs, on the little shelves, hint at the travels taken or at some special love of the decorator. There are sculptured birds and grand elephants from India. Dolls displayed for beauty or as a reminder, to oneself, of a reassuring security needed long ago. Yes! There are stories on the Little Shelves, interesting stories worth knowing about. Ask your neighbor tomorrow about their memories resting quietly on their Little Shelves.  Labels: active retirement communities, active senior living, Chicago estate planning, chicago retirement community, Jack and Rita, upscale retirement community
A Peek into the Fitness Center
posted by Jack and Rita: Thursday, January 22
 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
Director George Flint Names Cast
posted by Jack and Rita: Tuesday, January 6
 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
But I have Promises to Keep
posted by Jack and Rita: Monday, December 22
One of our members recalls walking slowly out of the Louvre in Paris in 1973 promising that someday she would learn to paint. Years and many museums later it is still an unfilled promise. Fast forward to 2006, she relocated to the active senior living facility, The Garlands of Barrington. There, to her joy, the activities department arranged a painting class, in water colors, for beginners. Visions of past self-promises challenged her--she joined the class at once. Our member's first attempt to create and paint a mushroom was a disaster, in her mind, but others liked it. Now, her family has to decide who gets the mushroom. Her next painting, a pink orchid, was beautiful, and fortunately, the class continued--she kept painting. The Garlands encouraged an exhibition of the students' art in our gallery outside the Performing Arts Center. Three walls of paintings, from present and prior member painters, hung there. The artists attended, answering questions to other members and guests, while all enjoyed wine and hors d'oeuvres. Some paintings were sold that evening, and our newest artist felt honored when an admirer of her work offered to buy one of her paintings. She declined to sell until her family selects their favorites. Our burgeoning artist is proud for keeping her long-ago promise The Garlands currently has an oil painting class and next month will offer a drawing class--great chances for those who have "Promises to Keep." Labels: active retirement communities, active senior living, chicago senior living, Jack and Rita, senior living facility, senior retirement communities, upscale retirement community
Working Together to End Alzheimer's Disease
posted by From the Executive Director: Friday, September 26
As many families of our residents know all too well, Alzheimer's Disease is a progressive brain disease that destroys brain cells, causing problems with memory, thinking and behavior that are severe enough to affect most every aspect of one's life and the lives of those who care for them. One in eight Americans age 65 or older (13%) has Alzheimer's disease. In honor of our Prarieview residents who have this disease, and in tribute to their legacies, Prairieview is a proud sponsor of the Alzheimer's Association's 2008 Memory Walk. We would like to invite you to join the Prairieview team--comprised of Prairieview staff, family members and concerned members of the community--to "take steps" to end Alzheimer's Disease on Saturday morning, October 4 at the Lake County Alzheimer's Association Memory Walk. The Alzheimer's Association, the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's Disease research and support, is advancing progress in prevention, treatments and an eventual cure and provides support for all those affected by the disease. The Memory Walk is a noncompetitive walk, and a festive event for families, coworkers and friends of all ages. The Memory Walk, a 5K (3.2 miles) walk, is the nation's largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer's care, support and research. The event will be held at Independence Grove, 16400 West Buckley Road in Libertyville. Optional transportation is available to and from The Garlands of Barrington on the day of the walk. Registration starts at 8 AM followed by an 8:45 AM opening ceremony and the walk itself. To join Prairieview in taking steps to end Alzheimer's Disease, as either a walker or a sponsor, contact team captain Amy Nyberg at 847-852-3500. We would love for you to join us! Labels: active retirement communities, Alzheimer's Care, chicago senior living, From the Executive Director, senior retirement communities, upscale retirement community
The Greatest Generation
posted by Jack and Rita: Thursday, September 18
 Where is the Greatest Generation Tom Brokaw wrote about? Some are here at The Garlands. I learned this at a November Veterans' day gathering. One member, a Marine Captain landed in Japan after the Nagasaki bomb to assess damage, another was with Chennault's Flying Tigers group in Shanghai. A Navy man's destroyer lost its bow to a Kamikaze bomber at Okinawa, and a Merchant Marine helped safely guide ships through the oceans of the world. Members flew for our various air forces in combat missions; transferred personnel and materials. Army member won a Purple Heart with oak leaf cluster fighting in Germany at Remagen Bridge. Navy man rode PT gunships into battle. A medic in France tended wounded during the Battle of the Bulge. One of our ladies, a WAC (Women's Army Corp) gladly re-enforced our military medical needs in the United States and another member helped returning troops, refueling at Newfoundland, telephone anxious families. The Greatest--friendly, interesting members: avid world travelers, bridge players, play reading actors, poker players, ladies charitable sewing, fancy car lovers, participants at dances, kite flyers, and, yes, Grandparents! They rarely talk about their war, but there is a lingering pride for having helped defend our Country. Labels: active retirement communities, Chicago estate planning, Jack and Rita, senior living facility, upscale retirement community
Looking Good in Barrington
posted by Tom Herb: Friday, September 12
A slow housing market continues to dominate news headlines. But here at The Garlands we're seeing a different picture than what the real estate news commonly reports. Regionally, home sales are significantly better than national reports. Plus, the 55+ market is less stagnant than other demographics. Perhaps it is because this generation has realized so much appreciation in their homes over the years. As such, residents are choosing The Garlands at a pace that is greater than last year. Another reason for this phenomenon is that we make it so easy. We offer several relocation resources--from help selling an existing home to assistance with packing--our expert Residency Counselors have the experience and the programs to help ensure a smooth move. There has been strong interest in the Phase II Founders Club. The Founders Club offers our members a unique opportunity to take advantage of pre-construction discounts on Phase II units. Founders Club Members also enjoy the benefit of Membership at The Garlands as well as the ability to personalize their new home. Call today to speak with a residency counselor to secure your place in this landmark new addition to our upscale retirement community. Start planning for your future today--the timing couldn't be better! Labels: active retirement communities, chicago senior living, Phase II, senior retirement communities, upscale retirement community
Construction Well Underway on 85 New Residences
posted by From the Executive Director: Monday, August 25
The Garlands of Barrington is currently offering Phase II Founders Club pricing and options to personalize finishing touches on a total of 85 new, private residences. The new homes are scheduled for occupancy starting as early as fall 2010 and include 20 one-bedroom, 49 two-bedroom and 16, 4th story, one-of-a-kind, two-and three bedroom Penthouse Suites. Phase II Founders Club pricing, available now through the end of the year, reflects pre-construction savings of 15% over opening day prices. In addition to these savings, Founders Club members, those who make a deposit of 10% on their Phase II home in 2008, will have the opportunity to personalize their premium cabinetry, appliance and flooring selections. The Garlands Phase II architects, Cochran, Stephenson and Donkervoet, Inc., have predominantly featured the Northern European influences, heavy timber accents and quality materials that have become the hallmark of The Garlands award-winning design. Each private Phase II residence, many of which feature one-of-a-kind floorplans, will boast 9-16 foot ceilings, gracious crown moldings and millwork throughout, a master bedroom suite and full gourmet kitchen with granite countertops. Floor-to-ceiling windows let the fantastic views and an abundance of natural light pour in. Floor plans range in size from 1,000 to over 3,000 square feet. The Garlands Phase II residences will also features the high-quality, signature services that have become synonymous with The Garlands unique, active senior living lifestyle. Service plans include housekeeping, interior and exterior maintenance, landscaping, snow removal, dining programs, social, education and cultural programs, 24-hour security and emergency response system, utilities and membership to The Garlands Fitness Center. Plus, all Garlands members and their families have access to The Garlands amenities including the restaurants, pool, theater and spa. For more information, please call 847-304-1996, visit the website at www.thegarlands.com or call to schedule an appointment to review Phase II floor plans. You can also keep track of construction progress and literally watch as these beautiful new buildings go up, all right on our new blog. Labels: active retirement communities, active senior living, chicago senior living, From the Executive Director, senior retirement communities, upscale retirement community
Delighted
posted by Jack and Rita: Monday, July 28
The frequent visits with Jennifer, John and the grandchildren are a continuing joy. The swimming pool and billiards tables at "GaGa and Papa's big castle" make their trips from downtown Chicago to Barrington exciting, fun-filled adventures. Our son, John Michael's first visit from his home in Brooklyn, NY quickly convinced him that we had made the right choice. Both children are very content that we chose an aesthetically pleasant and safe environment. The various social, educational and athletic activities, as well as, the nearby and on site health care facilities put them at ease. They like our new home, so much so that they suggested putting their names on the waiting list for this upscale retirement community! --Jack Labels: active retirement communities, Chicago estate planning, Jack and Rita, senior living facility, upscale retirement community
Free parking!
posted by Tom Herb: Thursday, July 24
The most significant development lately has been the pouring of the first floor in the underground parking garage. Heated, underground parking is a benefit that members of The Garlands really enjoy--each residence comes complete with a designated parking place, just one of a million conveniences that make up The Garlands lifestyle, and what we feel is a part of upscale senior living. Meanwhile, site utilities for storm and sanitary lines, main electrical feed and being installed in the coming weeks. Labels: Alzheimer's Care, chicago retirement community, Midwest retirement home, Phase II, upscale retirement community, upscale senior living
A Little Background
posted by Jack and Rita: Monday, July 21
We have frequently been asked why we chose the upscale senior living of The Garlands. We hope that our story may be of help to you as you consider a similar move. First, a little background is in order. I retired from a career as a sales and marketing executive in a large corporation, and Rita is a retired operating room nurse. Time passes, and we decided to leave our large townhouse for a retirement community where we could avoid maintenance and repairs. The question became, with the option to move anywhere in the country, where should we go and to which community? The invitations, from many active retirement communities, to have lunch and tour their facilities proved to be exactly what we needed to learn, compare and decide. Visits to nine or more retirement communities revealed many differences. Then our daughter, Jennifer, alerted us to The Garlands here in Barrington. After a few visits we followed our hearts from Philadelphia to Chicago and sealed our choice by selecting The Garlands. -Jack Labels: active retirement communities, Chicago estate planning, Jack and Rita, senior living facility, senior retirement communities, upscale retirement community
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