Senior Living News, December 2025
Monark Grove Madison Newsletter
Around the world with Atlas - December 2025 - France
Resident's Birthdays
Independent Living Residents
Cora Johnson – 12/02
Joellen Webb – 12/04
Ray Clark – 12/04
Faye Cobb – 12/04
Jackie Cobb – 12/08
Earl Finley – 12/10
Carol McGrane – 12/23
Wayne Bryant – 12/31
Memory Care Residents
Glenda Phillips – 12/24
Tommie Johnson – 12/26
Belkis Gallardo – 12/27
Dennis Howley – 12/28
Month's Celebrations
December 9th, National Pastry Day
December 19th, National Ugly Sweater Day
December 24th, Christmas Eve
December 25th, Christmas Day
December 31st, New Year’s Eve
Events Spotlights
December 12th Holiday Soiree MGM Open House with Santa, LB
December 12th Monark Grove Residents Christmas Joy Performance, LB
December 17th Independent Living MGM Christmas Potluck & Gift Exchange, DN
December 18th Memory Care Christmas Party
From France with Love
Alexa, play Vanille Fraise, by L'Impératrice.
“Vanille Fraise” by L’Impératrice(2015) is a dreamy, stylish blend of soft synths, smooth vocals, and modern French disco flair. Sweet, nostalgic, and effortlessly cool, it captures the band’s signature mix of elegance and groove in one irresistible track. It shows why L’Impératrice is one of France’s most exciting contemporary bands.
Fun Christmas Story
A Christmas Carol is a story about Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly and cold-hearted man who transforms his life after being visited by three spirits on Christmas Eve. The Ghost of Marley warns him of his fate, followed by the Ghost of Christmas Past, who shows him his lonely youth; the Ghost of Christmas Present, who reveals the joy of the Cratchet family despite their poverty and the illness of Tiny Tim; and the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come, who shows a grim future of his own lonely death. Upon waking on Christmas Day, Scrooge is filled with remorse and joy, becomes generous, and embraces the Christmas spirit.
Fun Fact about France
France is the world’s most popular tourist destination, has the most Nobel Prize winners for literature, and is home to the largest museum in the world, the Louvre, which is also the most visited art museum. France is the largest country in the European Union and sometimes called “L’Hexagone”. Interesting laws and customs include it being illegal to throw out edible food, the prohibition of couples kissing on train platforms, and a superstition that it’s bad luck to turn a baguette upside down.
Culture and history
• National motto: The national motto is “Liberté, égalité, fraternité” (Liberty, Equality, Fraternity).
• Camouflage: The French army was the first to use camouflage in 1915 during World War I.
• French toast: French toast was not actually invented in France.
• Croissants: Croissants were invented in Austria.
• The Eiffel Tower: The Eiffel Tower was only intended to be a temporary structure.
• Kissing on train platforms: A law was passed in 1910 that prohibits couples from kissing on train platforms.
• Shortest reign: Louis XIX had the shortest reign of any king in France, lasting only 20 minutes.
• Dying is illegal in the town of Y: There is a town in France with a law that makes it illegal to die within its limits
Welcome to France
Around the World with Atlas
France is a country built on centuries of history, artistry, and revolutionary ideas. From ancient Gaul and the rise of the Frankish kingdoms to the birth of the modern French state, its story is one of transformation. The foundations of France took shape through the coronation of Clovis in the 5th century, the brilliance of Charlemagne’s empire, and the evolution of a nation that would eventually stand at the center of European culture and politics. Over time, France became known not only for its kings and cathedrals but for a spirit of curiosity and change that shaped the world.
French culture has left an indelible mark across the arts, philosophy, cuisine, literature, and fashion. From the Enlightenment thinkers who reimagined human rights to the painters who transformed visual expression — Monet, Renoir, Cézanne, Degas — France has long been a beacon for creativity. Its influence extends into cinema, music, architecture, and the culinary traditions cherished worldwide, from buttery croissants to slow-cooked Coq au Vin. Every corner of French life carries a sense of refinement balanced with a deep appreciation for pleasure, beauty, and daily rituals.
To explore France is to step into a living tapestry of medieval villages, grand boulevards, vineyards, seaside cliffs, and cafés where time seems to slow down. It is a country that invites discovery — whether through the echo of cathedral bells, the quiet glow of a museum hall, or the simple joy of strolling along the Seine. France welcomes visitors not just to see its landmarks but to feel its spirit: a blend of elegance, history, and poetic charm that has captivated the world for centuries.
Resident of the Month
Betty Williams
Congratulations to Betty Williams for being our December Resident Spotlight. Betty’s life story is a testament to resilience, adventure, and community. Born on July 6th, 1939, in Dumfries, Virginia, Betty grew up close to her sisters, sharing a strong bond. Her father served in the Army and was a contractor, while her mother was a homemaker. Betty moved from Dumfries to Raleigh, North Carolina, after marrying John in 1956. Their journey included stays at Fort Monmouth, NJ, and Huntsville, Alabama. John’s love for motorcycles and electronics showed his adventurous spirit—taking cross-country trips and inspiring Betty with his kindness and strength. They raised two children, John and Susan, and had five grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and a great-great-grandchild.
Betty’s career ranged from being a secretary to supporting space exploration at USBI, where she watched shuttle launches and received the Silver Snoopy Award. She later worked in HR at TRW/Northrop Grumman before retiring after nine years. Betty’s vibrant spirit shines through her love of bridge, church activities, and her lifelong pursuit of community and connection. Her story inspires us to embrace adventure, nurture relationships, and leave a positive mark.
Christmas in Paris
Christmas in Paris is a magical experience with festive lights, numerous Christmas markets, and special events. Key attractions include the dazzling light displays on the Champs-Élysées and in the department stores, various markets like the one in the Jardin des Tuileries and near Notre Dame, and activities such as ice skating and festive concerts. Reservations are essential for Christmas Eve/Day dining and special events, which often sell out quickly.
Lights and decorations
• Champs-Élysées: The famous light display will be on from late November through January, on nightly from 5 PM to 2 AM, and all night on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
• Department stores: Major department stores like Galeries Lafayette and Printemps Haussmann feature elaborate window displays and a spectacular Christmas tree, often with special themes.
• Other areas: Look for beautiful lights and decorations on Place Vendôme, Avenue Montaigne, Rue du Faubourg-Saint-Honoré, and at the Jardin des Plantes’ Festival of Lights.
Christmas markets
• Notre Dame: A popular market is held in the 5th arrondissement near the cathedral.
• Jardin des Tuileries: This market is another major attraction, offering rides, ice skating, and food.
• Hôtel de Ville: Another key market location in the city.
• La Défense: Find a large Christmas market in this business district.
Winter for Elderly Tips
To help the elderly stay safe in winter, keep indoor temperatures at or above, dress in warm layers, and avoid going outside unless necessary. Prevent falls by wearing non-slip footwear and clearing ice from walkways. Additionally, encourage hydration, maintain social connections, and take precautions against hazards like carbon monoxide from heaters.
Outdoor and general safety
• Limit outdoor time: Avoid going outside unless absolutely necessary. If you must go out, dress warmly, wear a hat and gloves, and change out of wet clothes immediately.
• Stay informed: Be aware of weather reports, as wind and wetness can increase heat loss.
• Be aware of medications: Talk to a doctor or pharmacist about how your medications might affect your body’s ability to regulate temperature.
• Install safety devices: Ensure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, especially if you use any fuel-burning devices for heat.
Medical and emergency preparedness
• Know the signs of hypothermia: Be aware of symptoms like shivering, confusion, drowsiness, or slurred speech and seek medical attention if they occur.
• Get vaccines: Stay up-to-date on recommended flu and pneumonia shots, especially in the colder months.
• Have a plan: Prepare for emergencies like power outages by having an evacuation plan. Contact family or friends to check on each other during extreme weather.
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Happy Holidays! May this season bring you peace, happiness, and a little extra sparkle.
Associate of the Month
Terry Vines
Congratulations
to Terry Vines for being named the December Employee Spotlight. Terry, a proud mother of four daughters and a grandmother to eight grandchildren, exemplifies dedication and kindness. In her free time, she finds joy in exploring new places and supporting her loved ones in times of need. Her passion for cooking is a heartfelt way for her to spread love and happiness through every meal. As our Breakfast cook, Terry’s commitment and compassion inspire us all and make our community stronger. Thank you, Terry, for your remarkable spirit.
Collaborators
Julie Campbell
