The Season of Giving More

Juniper Village at Brookline hosted their 2nd Annual Trail of Trees event during the month of December.  The Trail of Trees showcases a glittering array of trees which were painstakingly decorated by community businesses, organizations, and Juniper staff. Twenty-five trees in total filled the Senior Living buildings walking path, creating a festive holiday atmosphere.

Throughout December, residents, family, friends, and community members were invited to stroll the Juniper Campus and vote on their favorite trees. On the evening of December 21st, a cocktail reception was held in which all in attendance were welcome to make their final votes prior to the winners being announced. The Board members of the Centre County Geriatric Interest Network were the guest judges and decided the first through third places, and the tree with the most overall votes was announced as the Grand Prize People's Choice Winner. All winners received donations made to the charity of their choices.

*       Grand Prize People's Choice Winner: Good Shepherd Preschool
                Donation of $250.00 made to: Good Shepherd Preschool
*       People Choice for a Juniper Department: Juniper Village Housekeeping
                Donation made to: Centre County PAWS
*       1st Place: Juniper Village Directors of Community Relations
                Donation made to: Bob Ott Seed Grant through the Centre County Council of Human Services
*       2nd Place: Juniper Village Business Office
                Donation made to: Centre County PAWS
*       3rd Place: Adult Transitional Care
                Donation made to: The State College Food Bank

All trees will continue to be on display for the duration of the holiday season for all to enjoy. The Trail of Trees Event at Juniper Village at Brookline is just one more way that Juniper continues to Keep the Spirit throughout the holiday season by providing fun filled opportunities to support those community members most in need.

The Sounds of Music

Anyone visiting us here at Juniper Village at Brookline would be hard-pressed not to feel the Holiday spirit, as the campus starts to come alive with abundant decorations and festive holiday dress. We recognize the importance of also focusing on spreading good cheer through song and fellowship as well.  On December 5th the hills and halls of Juniper Village at Brookline were filled with the sound of (holiday) music provided by the Nittany Knights Barbershop chorus. The Nittany Knights are a thirty-person auditioned men's a Capella chorus which specialize in a barbershop style, four-part harmony.  This harmonious group has been entertaining the Centre region for over fifty years and is always a crowd pleaser when they pay their special visits to our Community. Joining our festive residents in attendance of this special concert were local community members, family, friends, and anyone looking for help in finding their own holiday cheer.  All in attendance were treated to an evening of seasonal favorites in a toe tapping and finger snapping program.

A holiday celebration of music would not be complete without a proper seasonal spread of holiday delights.  Not wanting to be outdone by the wonderful sounds of the season our very own Dining Services Director, Kris Kishbaugh, joined in the festivities by providing a traditionally themed assortments of cheeses, pickled vegetables, house made chips and crab dip, cheesecake bites, and a sampling of local wines. Certainly a pairing of our favorite things to help remind all of us of the joy of the Holiday season.


So long, farewell, and the very merriest of holidays from your friends at Juniper Village at Brookline.

The Season of Giving

The fall season is winding down at the Juniper Village at Brookline campus. On the outside, daylight is becoming shorter, the cold air is blowing in, and on occasion a snow flake flutters past the evergreens. However, on the inside, residents and staff are bustling around transforming rooms and halls into a winter wonderland. Among the winter decorations of snowflakes, figurines, and ornaments, are grocery carts. Yes, that's right...grocery carts. Inside these grocery carts, located at the main entrances of each building, are items being collected for the State College Food Bank.

Each year Juniper Communities holds a Food Drive through the month of November to support the local Food Banks, and community members that benefit from their services. The State College Food Bank serves as the main collection site that services the numerous other smaller sites in Centre County. In 2015, the State College Food Bank alone, served nearly 2, 000 community members, with 11% being older adults.

On November 30th, Juniper Village at Brookline campus delivered the donations collected throughout the month to the State College Food Bank. Items were boxed and weighed, and the results were impressive; in total the collection weighed 668 pounds!

This collection is one of many services that Juniper Communities hold to support local community members. For more information on the State College Food Bank, and to learn how you can help fight hunger, please visit www.scfoodbank.org. To learn how Juniper Communities supports their local community members, please visit their website at www.junipercommunities.com

"If you can't feed a hundred people, than just feed one." ~ Mother Teresa.

December 2016 Events in State College, PA: Celebrate Little Things

Juniper Village nurtures wellbeing by encouraging an active body, an engaged mind and a fulfilled spirit. This month this custom is more evident than ever as we share our celebratory spirit - mind, body and soul. December is a month filled with holidays and celebrations, but at Juniper we like to kick it up a notch! All around the community all of your senses will be stimulated as you see traditional holiday décor, hear joyous laughter and singing, smell heavenly treats baking and taste them as well. We will celebrate all the joyous little things that make this time of year so special. Traditions both old and new will be honored. And through sharing our numerous cultures and traditions with each other we will learn more about each other, opening the door to deeper understanding.

This month take a moment to reflect on the little things that bring joy to your life. Reminisce about the traditions from your past and the new traditions you have started with your family. Celebrate the holiday season with us as we share a bit of ourselves with our annual cookie exchange and ethnic holiday celebrations. December is always an eventful month and we look forward to sharing it with you.

Our fabulous December 2016 events in State College, PA at Juniper Village at Brookline Rehab and Skilled Care include our:

§  Nittany Knights Holiday Knights Holiday Concert Cocktail Concert to enjoy an evening of seasonal favorites by the Nittany Knights Barbershop Chorus at this free concert is sure to get your toes tapping and fingers snapping – you won’t want to miss it – and festive fare will be provided for this family fun event on December 5^th from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm.

§  Trail of Trees our 2nd Annual event, where a glittering array of trees decorated by community businesses and organizations will be on display, so stroll through the Juniper campus to vote for your favorite tree and make sure you stay for the Dash Away Soiree, where the winning trees will be announced, and our top trees will win a donation to the charity of their choice on December 21^st from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. (Trees available for viewing from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm daily until January 7^th.)

We look forward to sharing our December 2016 events in State College, PA at Juniper Village at Brookline Rehab and Skilled Care with you as you Celebrate Little Things.

Juniper Village at Brookline Supports Taste of the Town

Curls of parmesan cheese… pillows of creamy polenta… ladles of rich Bolognese sauce  -- that’s how Juniper Village at Brookline proudly supported Centre County United Way’s signature fundraiser, Taste of the Town in November. Held at the Penn State Hotel and Conference Center, Taste of the Town is a culinary extravaganza, featuring the works the best chefs in our region who donate their time and talents for this wonderful cause. Hundreds of guests enjoyed an array of savory eats and sweet treats offered by dozens of food booths. This year, Juniper Village at Brookline chefs Kris Kishbaugh and Matt Nevling prepared parmesan polenta topped with Bolognese sauce for the crowd. The dish was a big hit, with many returning for second and even third helpings! When asked if Juniper residents really eat this well, Kris and Matt proudly responded, “As a matter of fact, we’re serving this very dish on Tuesday!” At Juniper, we take food very seriously through the “H’art and Soul of Dining”, one of our Signature Programs that nurtures the body, mind, and soul through culinary experiences for our residents.

Empowered Experts

On November 8, 2016 three residents from Juniper Village at Brookline Senior Living became the newest Pennsylvania Empowered Expert Residents Program (PEERs) at the community. Janice Johnson, Jacki O'Harra, and Jim Powers completed a five-part empowerment training through the Pennsylvania Department of Aging Long-Term Care Ombudsman Office, to become PEERs. This graduation ceremony showcased these three individuals receiving certifications of completion of the course by local volunteer Ombudsman, Susan Radis. Name badges were also provided to the new PEERs to inform campus and community members of their new roles, as well as an embroidered polo tee. Jacki's daughter attended the graduation to be a support to her mom. She shared that Jacki had attended her graduations over the years, so she wanted to attend her mother's graduation.

"The PEERs are a great asset to our community. They provide a service to our residents that we, the staff, cannot provide. Not only are they great advocates for their fellow residents, but they are the bridge between our community and the Office of Aging," says Jill McKenrick, Director of Connections at Juniper Village at Brookline Senior Living. These three, along with eight others at Juniper Village at Brookline, serve to self-advocate and empower other residents to maintain the highest quality of life and quality of care. Monthly meetings are held with the PEER group, staff, and local ombudsman to foster open communication and discussion on campus-wide topics.

Annual Giraffe Awards

On November 3, 2016, founder and CEO of Juniper Communities, Lynne Katzmann, visited Juniper Village at Brookline Senior Living, to do something only she can do, award the Golden Giraffe pin to the staff recipients of the annual Giraffe Award. This award is given to employees who have shown excellence throughout the year in 'Walking the Talk.' This Juniper motto is the backbone to the community's belief in nurturing the spirit of life in each individual we touch.

Giraffe's are the mascot for Juniper Communities because giraffe's represent the willingness of staff to stick their necks out for others and also because of their large hearts. Three staff members were honored during the ceremony for their showcasing of these ideals through exceptional service to residents and staff on a daily basis.
The first to receive the award was Brian Richner, a member of our dining staff. Having worked at Juniper Village at Brookline since 2000, Brian is described by his co-workers as providing a "Personalized experience" to all residents during meals. Katzmann shared that Brian's bright smile helps others to "Just feel up" and that he naturally "Walks the talk."  Kathy Cunningham, a housekeeping employee for the past 13 years, received the Giraffe Award for her "Can do attitude" and being a model to others as she leads by example of excellence. While receiving her pin, Kathy shared "It's an honor to have it."  Deb Lyons, Wellness Assistant, received this annual recognition for her calm presence, flexibility, and ability to "Make people light up," says Katzmann.

During this ceremony, recognition was also given to Denny Yeager, Director of Environmental Services at The Inn & The Willows, for receiving the Pennsylvania Health Care Association (PHCA) Employee of the Year Award. Lynne shared that Denny is the first Juniper Communities employee to receive this prestigious recognition.

Thank you Lynne for your visit to Juniper Village at Brookline and thank you Brian, Kathy, Deb, and Denny, for providing exceptional service to our campus and community.

Juniper Village at Brookline Walks to End Alzheimer’s!

On Saturday, October 29, Team Juniper donned their walking shoes for the 9th consecutive year to support the State College Walk to End Alzheimer’s. It was a blustery, bright morning, as hundreds of walkers gathered at Medlar Field, home of the State College Spikes, to raise support for this wonderful cause. Kicking off the opening ceremony was Penn State men’s basketball coach, Patrick Chambers, who proudly supports the work of the Alzheimer’s Association in memory of his late father. It was a special honor to also hear from Dr. Gong Chen, Penn State professor of biology, whose team is breaking ground in diagnostic tools and pharmaceutical advancements to fight Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Chen spoke about his work in regenerating functional neurons of Alzheimer’s patients. Gail Hamlin, president of the Pennsylvania Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, shared staggering statistics about the disease:  over 5 million people are living with Alzheimer’s in the United States, with 300,000 in Pennsylvania alone. She spoke of the financial and emotional toll the disease has on caregivers, and encouraged all walkers to continue to be advocates for the cause. The ceremony concluded with the Promise Garden, in which purple, yellow, orange, and blue flowers were presented as symbols for why people walk to end Alzheimer’s. Juniper’s own executive director of Wellspring Memory Care, Liz Plozner-Chalfa, represented all orange flower-bearers as someone who works to support the vision of a world without Alzheimer’s. So far, a record-breaking $89,000 has been raised by the State College community for this year’s walk, with fundraising continuing through the end of the year. To make a contribution in support of Team Juniper, click here<http://act.alz.org/site/TR/Walk2016/PA-GreaterPennsylvania?team_id=329380&pg=team&fr_id=9278>.

November 2016 Events in State College, PA: Cherish the Journey

Each November we turn our attention to Family with our Alive In All Seasons Theme: Cherish the Journey. We have always enjoyed helping our residents chronical their individual life journeys through journaling. In addition to keeping track of the daily happenings in our lives, journaling has surprising health benefits as well. University of Texas at Austin psychologist and researcher James Pennebaker contends that regular journaling strengthens immune cells, called T-lymphocytes. He also believes that writing about stressful events helps you come to terms with them, thus reducing the impact of stress on your health. Other research indicates that journaling decreases the symptoms of asthma and rheumatoid arthritis. Scientific evidence also shows that writing your thoughts down can help clarify your thoughts and feelings, help you to know yourself better, reduce stress, and problem solve more effectively. An additional benefit of journaling is that you are leaving a legacy for future generations. Review your journal together! Reminiscing about the events in one’s life is a way to affirm who they are, what they’ve accomplished in life and relive happy times. So, pick up a pen and Cherish the Journey, the benefits are endless!

Join our journey through November as we honor and celebrate family and the journey of life with our autobiographical journaling. Help us support our greater community with our annual Food Drive and our on-site support groups. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Our fabulous November 2016 events in State College, PA at Juniper Village at Brookline Rehab and Skilled Care include our:

§  Family Photo Shoot as family and friends are invited to “zoom in” to Brookline to have your photo taken with your loved one; silly props will be provided for funny photos, or you may simply sit and smile as we snap special moments on November 10^th from 10:00 am to noon and 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm. (RSVP to 814.235.2005 by November 7^th if you would like us to have your loved one ready for your visit.)

§  Veteran’s Day patriotic themed reception following a presentation by guest speaker and veteran, Sergeant Sergio Carmona, honoring our resident veterans for their service to this great country that is open to the public on November 11^th from 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm. (No RSVP required.)

We look forward to sharing our November 2016 events in State College, PA at Juniper Village at Brookline Rehab and Skilled Care with you as you Cherish the Journey.

Fall Festival A Great Success!

On Sunday, October 16, smiling faces gathered under sunny skies to raise over $2,000 for the Alzheimer’s Association! For the eighth consecutive year, Juniper Village at Brookline hosted the Fall Festival at Harner Farm, with all proceeds benefiting the local Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

The Fall Festival had something for everyone to enjoy. Most popular was the gigantic corn maze, where people of all ages dared to navigate their way through intricate pathways of cornstalks stretching eight feet high. Face and hair painting were other popular activities, where kids were transformed into sweet kitty cats and scary skeletons! Game stations featured over ten options, from the Ghost Tower to the Pumpkin Float.

And what festival would be complete without food? Penny Jeffries from Juniper’s Wellspring Memory Care building cooked up steaming kettles of her famous autumn vegetable and ham and bean soups. The menu also featured juicy hot dogs on the grill and fresh, cheesy pizzas donated by Pizza Mia in State College. And Juniper employees and residents showcased their confectionery skills for the bake sale, with offerings such as homemade cheesecakes, apple pies, and Halloween bark!

Thank you to everyone who helped to make the Fall Festival a wonderful success, and for your support of the Alzheimer’s Association!

WE ARE... Juniper Village

Throughout the Penn State football season, residents and staff at Juniper Village at Brookline can be found sporting the University's simple but easily recognizable colors of Blue and White. Penn State Football season brings out everyone's excitement, anticipation, and team spirit more than any other time of year. There is one day in particular though that stands apart from the rest, that brings the communities at Juniper Village and Penn State just a tiny bit closer, that blurs the line between Student and Senior; the day of the homecoming parade.

On Friday, October 7th residents and staff from Juniper Village at Brookline participated in the Penn State Homecoming Parade. This parade is a time to celebrate not only Penn State University but also to celebrate and display the numerous organizations, clubs, and special interest groups within the State College area. Residents and staff at Juniper Village took this showcase evening as an opportunity to celebrate and to demonstrate to the community what an asset and partner that they have in Juniper Village. Residents took this chance to gather inside the newly decorated blue and white Juniper bus, waving to parade attendees and reminiscing with each other about their childhood adventures. Not wanting to miss out on the action, Juniper staff joined along in the fun and walked the parade path handing out candy to the thousands of children and adults that can be found mobbing the sidewalks of downtown State College and the Penn State University campus.

A Day of Caring

Nestled in the quiet and quaint rural town of Spring Mills, PA the Old Gregg School provided an education to many children and youth. As the town grew and needs changed, the Old Gregg School evolved to become a community and recreation center. By providing affordable office space, indoor and outdoor recreation areas, and a safe space for locals, this go-to center is used frequently. Juniper Village at Brookline DCRs had the privilege in providing some needed TLC to this center on the annual Day of Caring event in Centre County. Kathryn Bainbridge, DCR of Juniper Village at Brookline Senior Living, and Katie Kensinger Senior DCR of Juniper Village at Brookline Wellspring, weatherized outdoor benches and picnic tables while other volunteers restored stair rails and sidewalks to aide in maintaining this valued community building.  The 2016 Col. Gerald Russell PNC Bank Centre County United Way Day of Caring was not only a way for the Juniper DCRs to give back to the community, it was a time to honor a former resident at Juniper Village at Brookline. Col. Russell was a devoted community member and established the Day of Caring in 1993. Upon his passing in 2014, Centre County United Way found it fit to rename the event in Col Russell's honor. For more information on ways that Juniper Village at Brookline helps support the Centre region, contact Kathryn Bainbridge at Kathryn.bainbridge@junipercommunities. and ask to be added to the highlight card mailing list.

Juniper Village at Brookline Leading the Way at PHCA!!

PHCA, the Pennsylvania Health Care Association, is a statewide advocacy organization for Pennsylvania’s most vulnerable older residents and their providers of care whose members comprise for-profit, nonprofit and government providers. Together, the more than 500 long-term care and senior service providers and their dedicated caregivers share a commitment to the highest level of care to ensure our sickest, frailest elderly and disabled residents live a healthy, safe life and age with the dignity and respect they deserve.

This year, at the annual convention, some lovely ladies from Juniper Village at Brookline – Anne Campbell, Liz Plozner-Chalfa, and Katie Castro – presented on techniques to reduce the use of antipsychotics. Additionally, Dennis Yeager, the Environmental Services Director at Brookline Senior Living, was awarded the PHCA Assisted Living/Personal Care Most Valuable Employee of the Year. Juniper Village at Brookline also won the Bronze Quality Award.

October 2016 Events in State College, PA: Show Your Colors

As we say good bye to Indian summer, we welcome the cooler air and slower pace of the autumn season. From warm apple cider, everything pumpkin and end of season hiking trips, there are so many reasons to enjoy autumn. William Cullen Bryant says it best, “Autumn, the year’s last, loveliest smile.” With the seasonal changes now in full swing we see fall flowers appearing where summer blooms once stood and leaves changing into vibrant shades of yellow, orange and red. The evening air has a slight chill and carries the scent of campfires, leaves and cinnamon spice. Our activities turn from swimming and baseball to raking leaves and football. Not only is Mother Nature showing her colors, but we begin to show our team colors with a focus on sports! Join us throughout the month as we bond over sporting events while cheering on our favorite teams, complete with tailgate parties and snacks.

Throughout October we will show our colors as we sponsor and support local sports teams. We will honor our associates who show their colors by “nurturing the spirit of life” with The Juniper Spirit awards. Alas, October would not be complete without celebrating the season with our annual Halloween Costume Party, which is open to ghosts and goblins of all ages. Join us this month and Show Your Colors!

Our fabulous October 2016 events in State College, PA at Juniper Village at Brookline Rehab and Skilled Care include our:

§  Autumn Sampler Festival on the Brookline patio as we rake up some of Central PA’s favorite traditional treats, and sample tastes of the season, including whoopie pies, apple dumplings, spiced cake, gourmet caramel apples, and Blue Moon Caramel Apple Spiced Ale; you may also ice and decorate your very own gingerbread man, and we promise you won’t “leaf” disappointed on October 13^th at 2:30 pm. (RSVP to 814-235-2005 by October 7^th.)

§  Fall Festival at Harner Farm for a day of family fun at our annual event to benefit the Walk to End Alzheimer’s; there will be kids’ crafts and games, fall treats, a soup and bake sale, and the famous corn maze, so we look forward to seeing you there on October 16^th from noon to 4:00 pm.

§  Safe Trick or Treating as children and families are invited to join residents and staff for a fun evening of candy, costumes, and a “spooktacular” good time as residents and staff will be handing out goodies to those dressed in costume; this event is open to the public, and no reservations are required on October 31^st from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

We look forward to sharing our October 2016 events in State College, PA at Juniper Village at Brookline Rehab and Skilled Care with you as you Show Your Colors.

Time for Spaghetti

September is Friendship Month at Juniper Communities and what better way to celebrate friendship than with a brother or sister. Juniper Village at Brookline hosted a Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser to benefit the Big Brother/Big Sister program through the Youth Service Bureau (YSB) in Centre County. This national program provides local children an opportunity to connect with others while developing positive relationships. "One caring adult can make a significant difference in the life of a child" (ccysb.com).

Juniper Village dished up more than 60 dinners to community members, Juniper staff, and residents throughout the evening with dine in and take out options. Guests enjoyed spaghetti with freshly made meatballs, salad, baked dinner rolls, and house made cupcakes. All attendees were also entered into a raffle to win a fall-themed gift basket. At the end of the evening all money raised was given to the Big Brothers/Big Sisters program for a grand total of $659.25. "Thank you so much for this event. This is wonderful!" said Zach Barton, Centre County Big Brother/Big Sister Program Coordinator who was present for the event and to receive the check.

Be sure to check out the Juniper Village at Brookline monthly calendars for more information on other fundraisers throughout the year.

For more information on the Big Brothers/Big Sisters program through the Centre County Youth Service Bureau, please visit www.ccysb.com.

Sip and Paint

This week the residents of Juniper Village  at Brookline Rehab and Skilled Nursing participated in their very own “Sip and Paint”. Juniper Village has a mascot of a giraffe named “Miles”, “because we stick our necks out and go the extra mile”. So residents and staff are working together to fill a display case with assorted giraffes. For residents - canvases were set out, paints were squeezed onto palettes, brushes were in hand, and favorite drinks were poured for sipping, as the instructor showed step by step how to paint a sunset with a giraffe silhouette. Even those who never had a brush in hand before laughed and smiled as their creative juices flowed. One resident expressed that his granddaughter talks of these classes that she attends regularly, and how he couldn’t wait to tell her he did one of his very own. For staff - adult coloring pages have been put in their break room with assorted colored pencils and the challenge to give their hand a try at creating a masterpiece. And together - staff are invited to bring a resident to the Connections REC room at any time to create together, a giraffe craft for the display. What started out as a simple art project for residents turned into a celebration of community and friendship through the expression of art! Tune in later for a picture of the final project!  

September 2016 Events in State College, PA: Spread Your Joy

As the air begins to cool and summer wanes, Juniper Village ends our “Stay Connected” series by recognizing Friendship and Joy. What is it that brings you joy? Is it the wet nose of a newborn pup? The smile of your first grandchild? The taste of a triple chocolate ice cream cone? Whatever it is we invite you to share that joy with others at Juniper Village this month.

Much attention has been paid to studies regarding the effects of stress on your health, but what about the effects of joy? The landmark “Nun Study,” as it's often known, revealed that positive emotion is correlated with longevity: 90% of the most cheerful quarter of nuns was alive at the age of eighty-five, whereas only 34% of the least cheerful quarter lived to that age. Similarly, 54% of the most cheerful fourth was alive at age ninety-four, versus 11% of the least cheerful. Of the 678 sisters in the original study about four dozen are still living. So go ahead, grab that triple chocolate cone it might just extend your life!

Join us this month as we celebrate friendship and staying connected with calendar events such as our annual daffodil planting and our home warming, birthday party and Best Friend initiatives.

Our fabulous September 2016 events in State College, PA at Juniper Village at Brookline Rehab and Skilled Care include our:

§  Sip and Paint Night Fundraiser with Benchmark Therapies as we enjoy an evening of networking with fellow healthcare professionals while Amanda Kunkle, owner of Happy Valley Sip & Paint, guides the class through one-of-a-kind masterpieces on September 8^th from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. (Please RSVP to Jill at 814-235-2041. Tickets are $35; proceeds benefit the Alzheimer’s Association.)

§  Pennsylvania Clash of the Sandwiches for a friendly East vs. West “Battle of the Buns” in preparation for the upcoming Penn State vs. Temple football game, as we enjoy samples of both Philadelphia and Pittsburgh style cheesesteak sandwiches, so cast your vote for your favorite, and may the best sandwich win on September 15^th at noon.

§  Weekend Winedown to taste for a cause at this annual fundraiser event and silent auction to benefit bound to get your taste buds going wild, featuring signature dishes from local eateries alongside Seven Mountains wine at the winery on September 23^rd at 6:30 pm. (Please RSVP to Liz at 814-234-3135. Tickets are $40 each or $70 per couple; proceeds benefit the Alzheimer’s Association.)

We look forward to sharing our September 2016 events in State College, PA at Juniper Village at Brookline Rehab and Skilled Care with you as you Spread Your Joy.

Quite an After Hours

On August 11th Juniper Village at Brookline partnered with Penn State Health and B Events to host the Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County (CBICC) Business after Hours. Over 150 members and guests of the Chamber attended this networking event. Guests were treated to live entertainment by local string band, Strait and Miller. Attendees also enjoyed in fare prepared by Juniper dining including a large antipasto bar, chicken pops, and chocolate fountain. Featured beverages were provided by Otto's Brewery, Barrel 21 Distillery, and Seven Mountains Winery. During the evening, Dr. Kevin Paul Black, MD Vice President of University Park Regional Medical Campus welcomed attendees to Juniper Village and promoted the developing partnership between Juniper Village and Penn State Health. He shared that Penn State University Park is embarking on a full medical school program for students which will highlight collaboration with area health providers, including Juniper Village at Brookline, to provide rotational sites for medical students to learn and develop hands on experience with older adults.
        
Networking and relationship building amongst community based providers is the foundation for Partners in Caring, which is one of nine Juniper Communities signature programs. Juniper Village at Brookline was thrilled to create such a warm and welcoming opportunity for this level of fellowship to occur and is eager to continue to provide this level of community service.

PAWS for People

Beginning in July our local Centre County PAWS from 1401 Trout Road, State College, PA. began bringing local animals who need homes to visit the residents of Brookline Skilled Nursing. The visits will occur two times per month with varying animals based on what animals they have who need homes. The hope is that in joining together with PAWS there will be several needs met: Both the pets and the residents will receive valuable socialization time as they snuggle and play, and the residents, families, and associates of Brookline will know when the pets are on the Activities calendar so they can meet the animals and pass the word to hopefully help in finding loving homes for adoption.

Pet therapy also has many benefits for this generation. The act of petting causes and automatic relaxation response that can lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health. The movement can also increase joint movement, maintain motor skills, and provide motivation to move more, stretch further, and exercise longer. The visiting animals can lift spirits, lessen depression, decrease the feeling of isolation, and provide comfort. And the group the pets are visiting can share past memories and stories of their favorite pets, which will increase communication and socialization (you can read more about the benefits of pet therapy at www.PAWSforpeople.org).

These kittens are a sibling pair. They were very affectionate and playful. We enjoyed a full hour of hugs, kisses, snuggles, and playtime with lots of laughs and shared stories of favorite pets!

August 2016 Events in State College, PA: Breathe in Life

Each August we turn our focus to the environment by offering social events and educational opportunities on living a more environmentally sustainable life. By making caring choices and creating helpful habits we can all make a difference to our planet.

Did you know that an aluminum can may remain in its current condition in a landfill for up to 500 years? That same can, when recycled, can end up back on your grocer’s shelf in as little as two months. Recycling that aluminum can also saves energy. Enough energy, in fact, to power your television for three hours! Aluminum can be recycled over, and over and over again – without limit. Americans will use about 2.5 million plastic bottles every thirty minutes. If that bottle is not recycled it can spend the next 450 years or more in a landfill. A modern glass bottle will take about 4,000 years to biodegrade. Glass is 100% recyclable and can be recycled again, and again and again. So, the next time you are enjoying a delicious beverage, be conscious of the packaging and make the choice to recycle.

Join us this month as we promote the environment with a focus on our recycling programs – from annual rummage sales to shredding and more; our educational offerings will help you to support our environment and Breathe in Life!

Our fabulous August 2016 events in State College, PA at Juniper Village at Brookline Rehab and Skilled Care include our:

§  CBICC Business After Hours for all Chamber of Business and Industry members, Juniper Village at Brookline is rolling out the green carpet, so come celebrate a wonderful networking event with live music, local brews, and plenty of sweet and savory treats on August 11^th from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. (Register online at www.cbicc.org or pay $5 at the door.)

§  The Buzz About Bees with local apiarist, Mike Dahlberg, from Nittany Ridge Apiaries, who will provide an educational presentation of interesting facts about beekeeping and the busy life of a honey bee complete with an observation hive and honey extraction demonstration for an interactive experience followed by honey-themed appetizers and honey-sweetened beverages on August 17^th from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm.

§  Honey Happy Hour to sing and dance along to the musical talents of Tommy Wareham while enjoying sweet and savory honey infused snacks and refreshing honey mead on August 18^th from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm.

We look forward to sharing our August 2016 events in State College, PA at Juniper Village at Brookline Rehab and Skilled Care with you as you Breathe in Life.

Nurturing the Spirit of FUN

Juniper Village at Brookline celebrated its 2nd Anniversary in style with a week dedicated to Staff Appreciation. Staff were informed the week prior to dress in certain themes for each day of this week of fun. On Monday, staff had the choice to dress in Juniper giraffe apparel or any giraffe themed clothing and accessories. Many residents also carried on this theme and took part in the afternoon ice cream social. Sports day followed on Tuesday and staff chose their team colors to show off during the day. The community was flooded with town-favorite, Blue & White, but scattered throughout was Silver and Green (Philadelphia Eagles) along with Black and Gold (Pittsburg Stealers.) Wednesday was decorated in a Hawaiian theme and staff & residents were treated to a lunch of Hawaiian fare with an afternoon Pina Colada mocktail. Thursday was the day to pull out the old poodle skirts and leg warmers, for Decades Day. Residents enjoyed an afternoon activity of watching staff compete in the Just Dance Wii game followed by treats of tie-dyed cupcakes made by the Juniper dining staff. To end the week, an all-day carnival was held in the Pines front lawn, complete with cotton candy, a bounce house, and dunk tank. Residents, family members, and staff watched throughout the day as different leadership team members voluntarily sat in the dunk tank waiting to take the plunge! Many smiles, laughs, and hugs were shared in a week where staff felt love and appreciation for all the work they do each day at Juniper.

Welcome Katie!

Juniper Village at Brookline Wellspring Memory Care is very excited to welcome Katie Kensinger to their Leadership Team. Katie joined the Juniper family in June as the Senior Director of Community Relations for Wellspring. Katie, at native of Martinsburg, PA, comes to Juniper with eleven years of marketing experience in the industry of senior care services. She earned her degree in Marketing and Strategic Management at Juniata College and moved to the State College area six years ago. Outside of work, Katie volunteers in the community and her passion is in musical theatre and dance.  She is active both on and off the stage with theatre companies throughout the region. In June, Katie performed at the State Theatre as Janet Van de Graff in the The Drowsy Chaperone, but her favorite role was playing Miss Adelaide in Guys & Dolls. When not balancing work and rehearsal schedules, Katie enjoys hiking and watching her favorite baseball team, the Pittsburgh Pirates. With her bright smile and warm personality, Katie has quickly become a great asset to Wellspring as well as the entire Juniper Village at Brookline campus. Welcome Katie!

It's The Most Wonderful Time of The Year

Juniper Village at Brookline has a long history, a 25 year history to be exact, of celebrating Independence Day in style. In keeping with tradition, the weekend prior to the Fourth of July, Juniper Village at Brookline hosts an annual Resident and Family Picnic. Such a picnic isn't complete without professionally installed circus tents, tables and chairs set for 600, the local Lions Club roasting chicken, The Deacons of Dixieland band, and locally made ice cream.  In addition to the chicken and ice cream, guests enjoyed traditional picnic foods of hamburgers, hot dogs, fruit salad, chips, potato salad, cherry and apple pie, and assorted beverages.

To add flair to the festivities, all staff dressed in reds, whites, and blues. Those in attendance enjoyed some new attractions this year including free caricatures by local artist Chip Mock, a beer truck, and chalk drawings. The weather was perfect for this years' picnic and residents from all Juniper Village at Brookline buildings enjoyed the day with their family and staff. One lucky attendee went home with a hand-made crocheted American Flag blanket made by Juniper Village at Brookline Rehabilitation and Skilled Care Executive Director, Kathy Russell.

The Family Picnic is yet another way for staff and residents to celebrate good times together.

July 2016 Events in State College, PA: Stand in Integrity

Ah...the good old summer time filled with lazy, sunny days, ice cold treats, Independence Day celebrations, and get-togethers at the beach. Another sure indication of summer is our Alive in All Seasons theme of Volunteerism.

July is the perfect month to honor all of the many volunteers who contribute thousands of hours of time in service to our communities. From our four-legged volunteers to those of the two legged variety we are proud to say we receive more than 10,000 hours of precious time each year. We simply could not do it without all of your help, and this month we honor you. We will also be promoting the spirit of volunteerism by volunteering our time to help others. If you have some spare time on your hands consider joining us for a volunteer activity or better yet volunteer your time with us, we’d love to have you. What qualities make a good volunteer? Energy, passion, flexibility, creativity, reliability, commitment and perhaps most important of all – integrity.

Volunteerism benefits all parties involved. In addition to making new friends, volunteering also helps increase your self-confidence, provides a sense of purpose, combats depression and helps you stay physically healthy. Helping others also kindles happiness, as the London School of Economics found the more people volunteered, the happier they were.

In addition to volunteering opportunities, plan to join us during July for our summer celebrations and share our thanks as we honor those who Stand In Integrity with us.

Our fabulous July 2016 events in State College, PA at Juniper Village at Brookline Rehab and Skilled Care include our:

§  AMERICAN RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE as we team up with the American Red Cross to host yet another blood drive open to Juniper staff, family, friends and the greater community because with a great turn out in previous blood drives, this collaboration had to make another debut, and with each donation, the American Red Cross can save up to three lives, so we encourage you to stop on by on July 13^th from 12:30 pm to 6:00 pm. (Sign up at www.redcrossblood.org or call 814.235.2005.)

§  MILES FOR MEMORY our 2nd annual fundraising event where participants are encouraged to walk or run at their own pace to raise awareness and funds for our Skilled Nursing Facility’s Music and Memory program, so track your laps and be eligible for prizes and giveaways with light refreshments served on July 19^th with registration at 9:00 am and kick-off at 10:00 am. (No reservations required.)

§  THANK YOU FIRST RESPONDERS COOK OUT as you and your family are invited to a fun-filled afternoon with your local first responders; climb inside a fire truck and learn all about these great volunteers that keep our community safe while we enjoy grilled hot dogs, cool Rita’s Italian Ice and other yummy treats on July 30^th from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. (No reservations required.)

We look forward to sharing our July 2016 events in State College, PA at Juniper Village at Brookline Rehab and Skilled Care with you as you Stand in Integrity.

Juniper Village at Brookline Receives 2016 Bronze National Quality Award

Juniper Village at Brookline received the 2016 Bronze National Quality Award for the high level of care they provide to frail elderly and disabled residents. The award honors nursing homes, assisted living residences and personal care homes for providing quality care to their residents. Bronze award winners demonstrate a commitment to providing a caring professional staff culture as they work with patients, residents and families to ensure high quality care and a high quality of life for seniors and persons with disabilities.

“Quality care is every long-term care providers’ top priority,” said W. Russell McDaid, CEO of the Pennsylvania Health Care Association (PHCA). “These facilities have demonstrated their commitment to quality care by choosing to participate in the American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living’s rigorous quality awards program, and actually achieving the award is a testament to the caring, professional way their caregivers and staff work with residents and their families. We are so proud they are being recognized with this distinction and we congratulate all of them.”

The award is the first of three distinctions — Bronze, Silver and Gold — that the American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living announce each year as part of its National Quality Award Program, which began in 1996.

Facilities begin the quality improvement process at the Bronze level, where they develop an organizational profile with essential performance elements such as vision and mission statements and an assessment of customers’ expectations. Bronze applicants must demonstrate their ability to implement a performance improvement system. A team of trained examiners reviews each Bronze application to determine if the facility has met the criteria. As a recipient of the bronze award, these facilities may now move forward in developing approaches and achieving performance levels that meet the criteria required for the silver level, and after that the gold level.

Silver Quality Award winners will be announced on June 30. Gold Quality Award winners will be announced on August 12.

GIN in the Evening

Centre County Geriatric Interest Network (GIN) was recently treated by Juniper Village at Brookline to a seasonally inspired after-hours event. On a beautiful spring evening, area healthcare professionals were invited to participate in an outside networking event geared towards bringing a community of caregivers together in order to collaborate and inspire while being treated to Juniper's professionally prepared light fare which included fruit kabobs drizzled with Mexican chocolate, smoked chicken pops with chipotle barbeque sauce, brick fire pit beef, and spring themed cocktails. Centre County GIN is compiled of community based providers, which serves in partnering with Juniper Village through our Partners in Caring Signature Program. Partners in Caring is one Signature Program that promotes relationships between Juniper staff and community agencies to provide a holistic approach to care for our residents.  Juniper's nine Signature Programs are the backbone to the highest quality of care to our residents. The other Signature programs that shape the quality of care to the Juniper Community include Connections, First Impressions, Green Canopy, Juniper University, Pride in Practice and Performance, R.E.S.P.E.C.T., and H'Art and Soul of Dining. To learn more about how these programs help us "Walk our Talk," visit our website or any Juniper Communities campus.

June 2016 Events in State College, PA: Live in Wellness

What is wellness? The National Wellness Institute defines wellness as "a conscious, self-directed and evolving process of achieving full potential." At Juniper we believe in fostering this definition of wellness everyday by offering programs and services that help our residents achieve their full potential. As we wind down our Healthy Aging series, this month we focus on Food by highlighting our H’Art and Soul of Dining Signature Program.

Throughout our lives the most important discussions, revelations, decisions and announcements have transpired around the dinner table. When company came over we caught up on the latest gossip over coffee and fresh baked goods. If you needed advice from your parents, it was often given while enjoying Mom’s delicious pot roast on a Sunday evening. Why should that be any different when you enter your retirement years in one of our communities?

With the kitchen often being the heart of the home, we have developed H’Art and Soul of Dining with this in mind. This program strives to impart spirited service, companionship and nourishment through sharing the joy of good food – just like home! Our dining program is designed to not only meet resident’s physical needs, but their emotional and social needs as well. We believe this program provides a perfect balance of nutritious and delicious food choices, comfortable atmosphere and ambiance, social interaction, cleanliness and a spirit of service.

Indulge with us this month as we focus on the “heart” of the home with program offerings centered on food and nutrition such as our hydration program with healthy snacks and juices and educational presentations by a dietitian. Join us in June as we Live in Wellness.

Our fabulous June 2016 events in State College, PA at Juniper Village at Brookline Rehab and Skilled Care include our:

§  Cured Meat Cooking Demo with Matt Nevling to connect to your inner chef, and join our very own dietician, as he demonstrates the fascinating process of curing meat with taste testing permitted and encouraged on June 10th at 2:30pm. (No RSVP required.)

§  Juniper Family Picnic as residents, family members, and invited guests look forward to this event all year long because we’ll have tons of classic cook-out food and drinks under the big tent, along with live entertainment for all ages on June 26th from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. (Watch for your invitation!)

§  Lunch & Learn: Live in Wellness – Dietary Needs for Seniors with registered dietician and Juniper Village at Brookline dietary consultant, Shawnee Kelley, for this informative (and delicious) take on what we need to keep our bodies operating well at any age with a menu to include strawberry mesclun salad and pecan crusted cod on June 29th at noon. (RSVP to 814-235-2041 and let us know of any dietary restrictions.)

We look forward to sharing our June 2016 events in State College, PA at Juniper Village at Brookline Rehab and Skilled Care with you as you Live in Wellness.

May 2016 Events in State College, PA: Grow Strong Daily

We all know that regular physical activity is great for overall health. But do we all understand the dangers in being inactive? Studies indicate that sedentary lifestyles are risky. For the most part, when older people lose their ability to do things on their own, it doesn't happen just because they've aged. It's usually because they're not active. Lack of physical activity also can lead to more visits to the doctor, more hospitalizations, and more use of medicines for a variety of illnesses. In recognition of those facts, Juniper nurtures wellbeing by encouraging an active body, an engaged mind and a fulfilled spirit through our innovative Signature Programs such as Connect4Life, Connections and H’Art and Soul of Dining.

We continue our Healthy Aging Series with a focus on Fitness. In the wise words of J.R.R., Tolkien, "All that is gold does not glitter, not all those who wander are lost; the old that is strong does not wither, deep roots are not reached by the frost." This month we will Grow Strong Daily so as to not wither, but to thrive as we develop strength in bodies, minds and spirits.

This month we invite you to join us as we Grow Strong Daily with activities such as our Daily Brain Builders, Wii, and our Brain Healthy Luncheon. We also invite you to expand your knowledge in our Healthy Aging Library.

Our fabulous May 2016 events in State College, PA at Juniper Village at Brookline Rehab and Skilled Care include our:

§  Penn State Lunch and Learn Bone Up on Bone Health as we join Dr. Roberta Millard from Penn State Hershey Orthopedics, as she discusses the importance of bone health as we age, and talks about the best in bone-heathy diets, exercise, and the warning signs of Osteoporosis and other related conditions, while a healthy lunch is served on May 18^th at noon. (RSVP to 814-235-2041.)

§  Chair Yoga Fitness with Sue Lembeck-Edens, movement therapist, as she invites all those who are interested to enjoy the benefits of chair yoga while she discusses the benefits of staying active throughout all stages of life on May 14^th at 2:00 pm.

§  GIN in the Evening Centre County Geriatric Interest Network (GIN) exciting networking event for all area healthcare professionals who work in, around, or are interested in geriatric healthcare with wonderful food and drink, and sparkling conversation and donations will be accepted for the Multiple Sclerosis Society on May 25^th from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm. (No RSVP Required.)

We look forward to sharing our May 2016 events in State College, PA at Juniper Village at Brookline Rehab and Skilled Care with you as you Grow Strong Daily.