Senior Living News, May 2025

Legacy Reserve at Fairview Park Newsletter

May 2025
México, Around the World with Atlas

Around the world with Atlas - May 2025 - México

Resident´s Birthdays

Carol Hannah – 5/08
Robert Osbourne – 5/08
Martha Fletchinger – 5/16
Marth Rollison – 5/20

Month's Celebrations:

Armed Forces Day – 5/17
National Lucky Penny Day – 5/23
Brother’s Day – 5/24
National Wine Day – 5/25
Memorial Day – 5/26

We Also Celebrate

Mother’s Day Brunch – 5/09
Spring Festival – 5/14

Celebrity Birthdays:
George Clooney – 5/6
Emilio Esteves – 5/12
Priscilla Presley – May/24

Piedra del Sol

The famous Aztec Calendar, shown in its original colors, is also known as the “Stone of the Sun.” It depicts the Sun God Tonatiuh, the fifth sun, at its center.

Associate of the Month

Sam Millmaker

“I like working at Legacy Reserve because I enjoy creating new cooking styles!”

My name is Samantha. I was born and raised in Illinois until I was 13 years old, when my family moved to Powdersville, South Carolina, in 1997. I later graduated from Woodmont High School.

In 2023, I moved to Simpsonville with my three amazing daughters. I’ve been a single mom for 21 years, and I’m proud to say I’ve done it all on my own. I’ve shown my girls that women are strong and resilient.

Shortly after relocating to Simpsonville, I joined Legacy Reserve in March 2024. I’ve worked in this industry for about 13 years, starting my career at a senior rehabilitation center. I truly enjoy cooking, learning, and improving my skills — and I’ve recently discovered a real passion for making soups!

In my free time, I love doing arts and crafts with my girls. With a 20-year-old, a 15-year-old, and a 13-year-old, finding free moments can be a challenge — but always rewarding. I’m also a huge animal lover. I have two birds, two dogs (the only boys in the house!), and I’m the proud grandmother of a dog and a cat.

Sam brings warmth, creativity, and dedication to everything she does — both at home and here at Legacy. We’re so lucky to have her as part of our team!

VIva México !!

Alexa play "Por un Amor" from "Linda Ronstadt"

Featured on Canciones de Mi Padre released in late 1987, the record beautifully captures the depth and beauty of Mexican folk music. Musical direction was led by renowned Mexican composer Rubén Fuentes, alongside the finest mariachi musicians of the era.

The album became a global sensation and remains the best-selling non-English language album in U.S. history.

Discovering Mexico

Mexico, officially the United Mexican States, is a country in North America. It borders the United States to the north, and Guatemala and Belize to the southeast; while having maritime boundaries with the Pacific Ocean to the west, the Caribbean Sea to the southeast, and the Gulf of Mexico to the east.

The people of Mexico are a diverse mix of European, Indigenous, and African ancestry, primarily known as mestizos. While Spanish is the official language, many indigenous languages are also spoken. Mexico has a large population, with a significant portion living in urban areas. The country’s culture is rich and diverse, with a strong emphasis on its indigenous
heritage.

Mexican customs emphasize respect for elders, strong family ties, and hospitality. Greetings often involve physical contact like hugs and kisses on the cheek, especially among friends. Showing respect, such as waiting to be invited to use someone’s first name, and acknowledging elders, are also important.

Viva México !!
Around the World with Atlas

A Land of Spirit, Color, and Eternal Stories, Mexico is more than a country—it’s a heartbeat, a song carried by the wind across deserts, jungles, mountains, and beautyful beaches. A place where ancient civilizations whisper through pyramids and murals, and modern life dances to the rhythm of a strong and unique cultural heritage.

The word “México” comes from the Náhuatl words “Metztli” (moon) and “xictli” (navel or belly button), meaning “the belly button of the moon.” The Mexicas pronounced it “Meshico.”

According to legend, the Mexica people were the last of the nomadic tribes to arrive in central Anáhuac (yep, that was the ancient name for the heartland of what’s now Mexico). They came from a mythical island called Aztlán—which is why they’re also called Aztecs. They were searching for a sign sent by their main god, Huitzilopochtli: an eagle perched on a prickly pear cactus, devouring a snake. That was the sacred place where they were to build their city.

And they did find it—right in the middle of a vast lake called Texcoco. Legend says they took refuge on that small patch of land in the lake and founded their settlement, Tenochtitlan, around 1325. By the time the Spanish arrived in 1519, they were stunned by the sight of a majestic, dream-like well-organized metropolis—Tenochtitlan—one of the largest cities in the world at that time. 

Resident of the Month

Joan Wedmore

Joan was born in Marshall Town, Iowa and attended South Tama High School. After high school, Joan attended Dental Assistant school. She married Rich Wedmore in 1976 and was married for close to 50 years. She has 1 son and 2 daughters. And 5 grandchildren.

Some of Joan’s hobbies are sewing and crafts. She loves baking. Her favorite music to listen to is Christian, Rock & Roll, and Blues.

Joan moved to South Carolina and has lived here for 2 years. She loves living here at Fairview Park because “the people and staff are great. I love just about everything here.”

Keeping Creative as a Senior

Art and creative activities, like painting, crafting, and music, offer numerous benefits for seniors, including improved mental well-being, reduced stress, and enhanced cognitive function. These activities also provide a platform for self-expression, socialization, and a sense of accomplishment.

Types of Art and Creative Activities for Seniors:

Visual Arts: Painting, drawing, sculpting, collage, and mixed media.
Performing Arts: Music (playing an instrument, singing), theater, and dance.
Creative Writing: Poetry, journaling, and storytelling.
Crafts: Knitting, crocheting, sewing, quilting, beading, and jewelry making.
Other Creative Activities: Gardening, cooking, and baking.

Honoring Our Vets on Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a time to honor and remember the members of the Armed Forces who have died while serving their country. Seniors, especially those who have served, can find meaningful ways to commemorate this day by reflecting on their own service, sharing their stories, attending local events, or participating in activities like decorating graves or joining in the National Moment of Remembrance.

Here’s how seniors and their families can celebrate Memorial Day:

For Senior Veterans:
Reflect on their service: Memorial Day can be a poignant time for veterans to reflect on their experiences and the sacrifices made by their comrades.

Share their stories: Sharing personal stories with family and friends can help preserve their memories and connect them with younger generations.

Attend local events: Many communities host parades, ceremonies, and memorial services that offer opportunities to participate in remembrance.

Volunteer: Seniors can volunteer with organizations that support veterans, like the Wounded Warrior Project or the American Legion.

Visit a military cemetery: Paying respects at a local cemetery or memorial, perhaps decorating a grave with flowers or an American flag, can be a meaningful act of remembrance.

honoring-our-veterans-on-memorial-day2-legacy-reserve-fairview-park

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Recipe Spotlight:

Greek Meatballs with Takizi Sauce

What’s in Mexican Salsa?
Roma tomatoes- I like the sweetness that Roma tomatoes give to fresh salsa. However, if you have beefsteak tomatoes, that will work as well.
Red onion- will give the salsa a strong bite and spiciness without the heat.
Jalapeno- whether you like it hot or not, adding a kick like jalapeno or Serrano is essential. If you prefer mild salsa, discard the ribs and seeds of the pepper ( I prefer to keep the whole pepper intact).
Cilantro– adds freshness and herb(y)ness to the sauce. Do not substitute cilantro for parsley. It will NOT work!
Lime- adds that twang! Though you could use lemons, limes are the most traditional.
Garlic powder- because we are already going to have onion breath!
Salt- use kosher salt. Iodized salt is saltier (more concentrated), so a little goes a long way. Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning to taste if you choose to do so.
How To Make Mexican Salsa
First, wash and pat dry the fresh ingredients.
Next, place all of the ingredients into the food processor.
Finally, pulse until the desired consistency is reached. Transfer the salsa to a bowl and chill in the fridge until ready to serve.

Viva México !!
The Corn Tamers

Corn has been a staple of Mexican culture and cuisine for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilizations long before the Mexicas and even the Pre-classical Mayans wich are prior to 1000 BC. It’s used in countless traditional dishes such as tortillas, tamales, pozole, tacos, chilaquiles, enchiladas, sopes and so on.

They were masters in combine native ingredients like chile, cacao, and vanilla, Mexican cuisine has shaped global tastes and preserved a deep connection to the country’s agricultural and cultural roots.

Associate of the Month

Katherine Suttles

Katherine was born in Laurens, South Carolina, where she attended Laurens High School. She attended Piedmont Tech and received her CNA certification. She has worked in nursing care for 45 years. Katherine has been here at Fairview Park for 4 years.

Her hobbies are gardening, home improvement projects, and volunteering at her church. Her musical tastes range from Christian, Rhythm & Blues, to Jazz. Some of her favorite meals are baked chicken, baked potatoes, and yogurt.

Some of the reasons that keep Katherine here at Fairview Park are the residents, and her coworkers. Katherine says making the residents laugh and smile make the job all worthwhile.

Resident of the Month

Roberta Driver

“I like living at Legacy Reserve because I enjoy the residents, and the staff are always warm and helpful.”

Roberta was born and raised in the Clearwater, Florida, area. She met her husband, Ben, shortly after high school, and they were happily married for 54 years until his passing in 2010. Over the years, they lived in Largo and Naples, Florida, before settling in Spartanburg, South Carolina, in 1977.

Roberta began working at the age of 17 and held a variety of jobs throughout her life. She worked as a librarian and at a bank, but her favorite roles were at various needlepoint stores. A lifelong handcrafter, Roberta is especially passionate about knitting today. Her needlework is exceptional, and many beautiful pieces are proudly displayed in her apartment.

An interesting fact about Roberta: her family were among the first settlers in the Sarasota area of Florida, including one of the region’s first doctors.

Roberta has three delightful children, five “very smart” grandchildren, and is excited to welcome her first great-grandchild soon.

She moved to Legacy in September 2023 and can often be found most evenings playing Rummikub in Bernard’s Sports Bar. Roberta especially enjoys the warm, kind, and helpful community here at Legacy.

Colors of México

Collaborators

Shelly Evans | Executive Director | Legacy Reserve at Fairview Park
Shelly Evans
keith-talmadge-lifestyle-director-legacy-reserve-fairview-park
Keith Talmadge

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