Senior Living News, July 2025
Monark Grove Madison Newsletter
Around the world with Atlas - July 2025 - United States of America
Resident's Birthdays
Independent Living
07/02 Georgia Simons
07/06 Betty Williams
07/08 Mary Finazzo
07/15 Judith Brown
07/18 Bonnie Johnston
07/18 Chuck Lindsey
07/25 Mary Greve
07/26 Ron Joyce
07/28 Wilna Van Hoose
07/30 Jean Wilder
7/31 Carol Bailey
Memory Care Birthdays
07/16 Nancy Stone
07/26 Nancy Ryan
Month's Celebrations
July 1st
Canada Day
July 4th
Independence Day
July 29th
National Chicken Wings Day
Events Spotlights
July 2nd– MGM Peace on Earth Choir 4th of July Performance
July 31st– July Birthday Bash
One of the most enduring symbols in the United States is the bald eagle—a majestic bird chosen in 1782 as the national emblem.
Freedom Folk
Alexa play "Masters of War" from "Bob Dylan"
A scathing antiwar protest song from 1963, stripped down to voice and guitar. Dylan’s lyrics pulled no punches, making it a rallying cry for peace during the Cold War and the Vietnam era. From his second album, The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan.
Folk music gave America its voice of protest and unity. Rooted in tradition, it flourished in times of change—speaking out against war, injustice, and inequality with acoustic guitars and powerful words.
Rock & Roll
Hall of Fame
Alexa play "All Along the Watchtower" with "Jimi Hendrix"
Hendrix transformed Bob Dylan’s folk ballad into an electric storm. With layered guitars and powerful vocals, it became a defining anthem of the Vietnam era and a staple of psychedelic rock. The year was 1968, and the album was Electric Ladyland.
Health Articles
Summer is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities and warm, sunny days, but it is important to keep your health a number one priority. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people aged 65 or older have a harder time adjusting to sudden temperature changes. Prepare for a safer summer with the following warm weather tips for older adults.
-Reduce Strenuous Activities
With high temperatures, seniors should stay in air-conditioned or cool places and out of the sun. It’s important to reduce any strenuous or physical activities as the more movement, the higher the body temperature.
-Keep Hydrated
Drink plenty of water, even if you’re not thirsty! As you increase your intake of water, minimize your intake of caffeinated or alcoholic drinks, as these only dehydrate your body. Fresh fruits and vegetables are also recommended to help keep you hydrated. Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
-Protect Yourself in the Sun
Use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher when going outside, even on cloudy or overcast days. Be sure the sunscreen blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Reapply sunscreen after any water activities. Discard expired sunscreen as the ingredients deteriorate over time and may no longer be effective in protecting you. Hats are also a great idea for protecting against the sun. When possible stay in shaded areas like covered patios or shady trees.
-Wear Light Clothing
Stock your wardrobe with light-colored and loose-fitting clothes to keep cool and stay comfortable. Natural fabrics such as cotton also help to keep cool as opposed to synthetic fibers.
-Be an Early Bird or Night Owl
If you must be outside during a summer heat wave, limit your outdoor activities to the morning and evenings since the sun is the strongest between 10 am and 4 pm.
-Watch For Heat Stroke
It’s important to be mindful of signs of a heat stroke, which include confusion, disorientation, dry skin, excessive tiredness, headache, lethargy, nausea, and rapid pulse. Make sure you seek medical attention immediately if you or someone you know experiences these symptoms.
-Review Your Medications
Many seniors take medication on a daily basis. Some medications are known to cause side effects such as increased sensitivity to ultraviolet rays. Be sure to review with your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns.
-Protect Your Eyes
Too much exposure to the sun can irritate and cause damage to your eyes. When outside, wear sunglasses that protect from UV rays.
-Eat Some Ice Cream!
Treat yourself to ice cream, a popsicle, or frozen yogurt to keep cool over the summer!
-Schedule a Check-up
No matter the season, remember to schedule regular check-ups with a primary care provider to maintain optimal health, prevent illness, and
Fun Facts about United States
– No official language: While English is the most widely spoken language, the US has no official national language, according to multiple sources.
– Melting pot culture: The US is known for its diverse population and cultural mix.
– Independence Day: The US celebrates its independence from British rule on July 4th, according to Global Admissions.
– Temperature system: Americans use Fahrenheit instead of Celsius for temperature measurements.
– Date format: The US typically writes dates as Month/Day/Year, unlike many other countries.
– Largest river system: The Mississippi and Missouri rivers combine to form the fourth-longest river system in the world, according to Edwise International.
– Olympic dominance: The USA has won more Olympic medals than any other country.
– State variations: Montana has more cows than people.
– The Statue of Liberty: A gift from France, it was presented to the US in 1886.
– Hollywood: Los Angeles is known as the movie capital of the world.
– Metric system: The US is one of the few countries that has not fully adopted the metric system.
– Space exploration: The US is the only country to have successfully landed humans on the moon.
– A nation of immigrants: The US has a long history of immigration and is often called a “nation of immigrants”.
– Land of the free: The US is known for its ideals of freedom and democracy.
– The American flag: The 13 stripes represent the original 13 colonies.
Welcome to United States of America
Around the World with Atlas
The United States of America is a vast and diverse nation, shaped by a bold spirit of freedom, innovation, and cultural fusion. From towering skyscraper cities to serene national parks, from the sounds of jazz and rhythm & blues to the electrifying pulse of rock & roll, the U.S. radiates a restless energy that has left a lasting cultural impact around the globe.
More than a global superpower in terms of industrial influence and technological innovation, the United States is also a leading force in the arts and cultural development. It has played a central role in shaping the modern world as we know it. The rise of Silicon Valley and the culture surrounding today’s tech giants is the result of a long legacy of American ingenuity and creative drive.
- The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has issued over 11 million patents since its founding in 1790.
- Among the most famous early patents: the light bulb (Edison), the airplane (Wright brothers), and the telephone (Bell).
- Home to world-leading research institutions like MIT, Harvard, and Stanford.
- The Internet, GPS, and personal computers were all developed in the U.S.
- The birthplace of jazz, rock & roll, blues and hip hop.
Resident of the Month
Patricia McNeely
Mrs. Patricia, or Patty was born on June 17, 1930, in Dublin, Kentucky, during a challenging period in American history known as the Great Depression. Growing up on a farm without electricity or indoor plumbing, she developed a deep appreciation for the simpler things in life. Mrs. Patty has vivid memories of significant historical events, including the attack on Pearl Harbor and President Roosevelt’s subsequent speech. Her family played a significant role in shaping her values; her two grandmothers, who were best friends, lived on neighboring farms and often spent time fishing together. Embracing her Christian faith, Mrs. Patty chose to be baptized in a pond, seeking the authentic experience of feeling the mud between her toes, much like Jesus did. Throughout her professional life, Mrs. Patty held several esteemed positions. She worked as a secretary for the President of Murray State University, taught grades 3-6 at a local school in Dublin, and contributed her talents to the Atomic Energy Commission in Oak Ridge. Ultimately, she retired after successfully running her own picture framing shop. Mrs. Patty met her husband, Jim McNeely, in high school in Mayfield, Kentucky. Their relationship blossomed after he returned from military service in the Korean War, leading to their marriage. Following this, he completed his degree at Murray State University and went on to have a rewarding career as an engineer, particularly during the early Apollo missions. The couple embraced the various relocations that came with Jim’s job, ultimately settling in Milan, Tennessee, to be closer to family. Mrs. Patty’s daughter, Paula, resides in Madison, while her son lives in Huntsville. The family speaks fondly of her, often reflecting on how she has been an inspiration in many unique ways. For instance, her commitment to fitness encouraged her grandson to pursue weight training, ultimately guiding him to become a head strength coach. Known for her warmth and hospitality, Mrs. Patty delighted in hosting friends and organizing gatherings. As a savvy investor, she has often expressed a desire to have explored a career as a stockbroker earlier in her life. Her interests span a variety of fields, including politics, business, and scripture; she has also made an impact by teaching Sunday school to high school girls. Moreover, Mrs. Patty enjoyed traveling with her church group, embraced her passion for reading, and took great pleasure in playing the piano. She has positively contributed to her community through her involvement in a nursing home ministry, where she shared her musical talents with residents, among other endeavors.
Fun facts about July
• Named after Julius Caesar:
July was originally called Quintilis, but was renamed in honor of Julius Caesar after his death.
• Independence Day Celebrations:
The Fourth of July, commemorating the Declaration of Independence, is a major holiday in the United States.
• Warmest Month in the Northern Hemisphere:
July typically experiences the highest average temperatures in the Northern Hemisphere.
• Dog Days of Summer:
The hot and humid days of late July and early August are often referred to as the “dog days of summer”.
• Baseball Milestones:
Many significant events in baseball history have occurred in July, including Mel Ott’s 100th career home run.
• Birthstones and Flowers:
The birthstone for July is the ruby, and the birth flowers are larkspur and water lily.
• Space Exploration:
July is also notable for the first moon landing in 1969.
• Historical Events:
Many historical events have occurred in July, including the discovery of the Rosetta Stone and the end of the Korean War.
• Disability Pride Month:
July is also celebrated as Disability Pride Month worldwide.
Nutrition Tips for Ages 60+
Eating habits change throughout the life span. Learn how the foods and drinks choose each day help you meet daily nutrient needs, maintain a healthy body weight, and reduce the risk of chronic disease.
• Eat seafood, dairy or fortified soy alternatives, beans, peas, and lentils to help maintain muscle mass.
• Add fruits and vegetables to your meals and snacks. If slicing and chopping is a challenge, choose frozen, canned, or ready-to-eat options.
• Turn eating into a social event. Meals are more enjoyable when you eat with others. Invite friends to join you or take part in a potluck at least twice a week. Some community centers and places of worship offer meals that are shared with others. There are many ways to make mealtimes pleasing.
• The body’s ability to absorb vitamin B12 can decrease with age. Taking certain medicines can also lower absorption. Eating enough protein and fortified foods can help the body get the vitamin B12 it needs. Speak with your healthcare provider to learn if you should take supplements and what is right for you.
• If you use or are thinking about taking dietary supplements, talk about this with your healthcare provider to learn what is right for you. This includes nutrition supplement drinks, which can have added sugars. The My Dietary Supplement and Medicine Record can help you track your supplement and medicine use.
Be Active
Being physically active can help you stay strong and independent. For older adults, regular physical activity supports a number of health benefits, including brain function, balance, and bone strength.
• Try to get at least 150 minutes (or two and a half hours) of moderate activity per week. Moderate means any activity that gets your heart beating faster.
• Do activities that make your muscles work harder than usual at least two days of the week.
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Recipe of the Month
Southern Peach Cobbler
Ingredients:
4 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (or use high-quality canned peaches, drained)
1 cup granulated sugar (plus a bit more for sprinkling)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
Optional: cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm touch
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss peaches with lemon juice and 1/2 cup sugar; set aside. In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and the remaining sugar. Stir in milk until smooth. Pour melted butter into a baking dish—do not stir.
Pour batter over the butter, then spoon peaches and juices on top. Do not mix. Sprinkle with extra sugar (and cinnamon, if using). Bake for 40–45 minutes, until golden and bubbly. Best served warm with vanilla ice cream!
Associate of the Month
Christopher Stewart-Benford
We would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Chris Stewart-Benford for being recognized as our July Employee Spotlight!
Chris, a proud native of Madison, Alabama, finds joy in spending quality time with family and friends. His dedication to connecting with and assisting others, combined with a deep appreciation for the outdoors, exemplifies his compassionate spirit. In November 2023, Chris completed his Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program and passed the state exam in February 2024, marking a significant milestone in his journey. Since joining the team at Monark Grove in March 2024, he has demonstrated unwavering commitment to advancing his career in the medical field, aspiring to become a Registered Nurse (RN) and specialize in Radiology. Chris embodies dependability and dedication, proving to be an invaluable member of our team.
Collaborators
Julie Campbell
