Around the world with Atlas - April 2025 - Greece
Resident's Birthdays
Independent Living
Sue Novac 4/01
Frank Niebuhr 4/02
Lynn Klien 4/10
Paul Noreen 4/15
Brenda Morrow 4/26
Memory Care
Annie Schofield 4/30
Month's Celebrations
April’s Fool Day 4/01
National Garden’s Day 4/14
National Librarian Day 4/16
Easter Day 4/20
National Earth Day 4/22
Arbor Day 4/25
Events Spotlights
Waffles with Directors 4/04
Easter Lunch Brunch & Egg Hunt Extravagant 4/12
Gardening Party 4/22
April Birthday Bash 4/25
Greek Heritage
Alexa play "Conquest of Paradise" from "Vangelis"
“Conquest of Paradise“ is a musical composition by Greek Composer Vangelis, created for the 1992 film 1492: Conquest of Paradise directed by Ridley Scott. The film depicts Christopher Columbus’ journey to the New World, and Vangelis’ score perfectly captures the sense of adventure, discovery, and grandeur.
April Fools’ Day
April Fools’ Day, in most countries the first day of April. It received its name from the custom of playing practical jokes on this day—for example, telling friends that their shoelaces are untied or sending them on so-called fools’ errands. Although the day has been observed for centuries, its true origins are unknown and effectively unknowable. It resembles festivals such as the Hilaria of ancient Rome, held on March 25, and the Holi celebration in India, which ends on March 31.
How did April Fools’ Day start?In France a fooled person is called a poisson d’avril, or “April fish.”
Some have proposed that the modern custom originated in France, officially with the Edict of Roussillon (promulgated in August 1564), in which Charles IX decreed that the new year would no longer begin on Easter, as had been common throughout Christendom, but rather on January 1. Because Easter was a lunar and therefore moveable date, those who clung to the old ways were the “April Fools.” Others have suggested that the timing of the day may be related to the vernal equinox (March 21), a time when people are fooled by sudden changes in the weather.
There are variations between countries in the celebration of April Fools’ Day, but all have in common an excuse to make someone play the fool. In France, for example, the fooled person is called poisson d’avril (“April fish”), perhaps in reference to a young fish and hence to one that is easily caught; it is common for French children to pin a paper fish to the backs of unsuspecting friends. In Scotland the day is Gowkie Day, for the gowk, or cuckoo, a symbol of the fool and the cuckold, which suggests that it may have been associated at one time with sexual license; on the following day signs reading “kick me” are pinned to friends’ backs. In many countries newspapers and the other media participate—for example, with false headlines or news stories.
Easter
Easter is a Christian festival celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, marking the triumph of life over death and the beginning of a new life in Him.
Here’s a more detailed explanation:
• Religious Significance:
Easter is the most important festival in the Christian calendar, commemorating Jesus’s resurrection three days after his crucifixion.
• Biblical Basis:
The New Testament details Jesus’s crucifixion, death, and burial, followed by his miraculous resurrection, which is the core belief of Christianity.
• Symbolism of New Life:
Easter is a time of renewal and hope, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil and the promise of eternal life for believers.
• Timing and Traditions:
Easter falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon after the spring equinox (around March 21st). It’s a time for church services, reflection, and various traditions like Easter eggs and the Easter bunny, which have evolved to incorporate symbols of new life and rebirth.
• Historical Context:
Easter’s timing and some traditions are linked to the Jewish festival of Passover, as Jesus’s crucifixion and resurrection occurred during the Passover festival.
• Pagan Influences:
Some scholars suggest that the name “Easter” may have been derived from Eostre, a pagan goddess associated with spring and fertility, and that certain symbols and customs associated with Easter, such as eggs and rabbits, have roots in pagan traditions.
Greek Heritage
Around the World with Atlas
Greece, the cradle of Western civilization, is a land where ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture come together. From the awe-inspiring ruins of the Acropolis of Athens, where the Parthenon stands as a symbol of classical Greece, to the mystical sanctuary of Delphi, once considered the center of the world in ancient times, Greece is rich in heritage and mystical past.
The whitewashed cliffs of Santorini showcase Mediterranean charm. Whether exploring ancient ruins, sun-drenched islands, or dramatic landscapes, Greece captivates with its timeless beauty and profound legacy.
Resident of the Month
Madeleine Sparks
Born in Des Moines, Iowa, on August 2, 1943, she was the oldest of five children. Her family moved from Pennsylvania to Alabama after her father was stationed there following his service in the army. Settling in Decatur, she embraced her first love, music, playing the piano and joining the school band, where she met her high school sweetheart. She was also active in the choir, while her husband excelled as a talented athlete.
After graduating in 1961, she married Vincent “Wayne” in 1966 and welcomed a daughter who now thrives in Huntsville. With a passion for learning, she earned a degree in Mathematics from Birmingham-Southern College and built a successful career as a mathematician. She mastered a programming language and contributed her expertise at Amtran, specializing in man-machine interface computers.
Her dedication led her to become the head of delegation for the International Standards Organization, providing her with opportunities to travel the world. She explored diverse places such as Brazil, Tokyo, England, Germany, and Hawaii, leaving her mark by publishing standards for computer graphics functionality, preserved in the Library of Science.
Eventually, she discovered Monark Grove through her caregiver, Clarinda. Embracing this new chapter, she found a place she truly cherished, a testament to her resilient spirit and unwavering pursuit of happiness.
It's a Spring Thing!
Healthy Tips for the New Season
Spring cleaning
We’re sure you’ve been anticipating a thorough house/garage cleaning after the long winter months concluded. While this may seem like a laborious chore, tidying up your living space will make your home and mind feel clearer. Just as organizing your home will make spaces feel larger and cleaner, this act will have a similar effect on your mental health. Clearing clutter and putting your things where they belong and out of your path will help you clear your mind and check items off your mental checklist.
Eat more greens
Have you been surviving on soups and comfort food this winter? Try swapping these out for lighter dishes that better reflect the new season, like salads or fish. The greenery that is starting to emerge around you may inspire you to add green foods into your diet more often. The farmers’ markets will feel more inviting when the sun is shining, or if you have a green thumb, you can get back to your garden for your own fresh vegetables and herbs.
Get moving!
It probably feels more achievable to start an exercise regimen in the sunny springtime than in the cold, dark winter. Some say springtime is the real new year, and some people find their exercise resolutions easier to stick to in March, April and May. Runners will enjoy getting back outside for their jogs; but if you prefer other forms of exercise, try a bike ride on one of Rhode Island’s bike paths or gather some friends for a game of tennis at your local court.
Be mindful
Spring is a great time to begin a new mindfulness exercise. This doesn’t have to mean full meditation—we know how difficult a clear state of mind is to achieve. Consider a quiet activity on which you can focus your mind solely, such as art, yoga, or journaling. Any activity that relaxes you and allows you to quiet your mind is a step toward mindfulness.
Reconnect with others
Now that our winter hibernation is over, it’s time to re-enter our social lives and make plans with friends and family. Many people prefer staying in during the winter, but the warmer weather may serve as a motivator to get out and be social. Call up a friend you haven’t seen in a while or plan a picnic with your family to reconnect and spend quality time with loved ones.
Treat the first day of spring as a fresh start with these tips. Rediscover health and wellness with the onset of more sunlight and blooming flowers. Happy spring!
The Origins of Earth Day
April Fools’ Day, in most countries the first day of April. It received its name from the custom of playing practical jokes on this day—for example, telling friends that their shoelaces are untied or sending them on so-called fools’ errands. Although the day has been observed for centuries, its true origins are unknown and effectively unknowable. It resembles festivals such as the Hilaria of ancient Rome, held on March 25, and the Holi celebration in India, which ends on March 31.
How did April Fools’ Day start?In France a fooled person is called a poisson d’avril, or “April fish.”
Some have proposed that the modern custom originated in France, officially with the Edict of Roussillon (promulgated in August 1564), in which Charles IX decreed that the new year would no longer begin on Easter, as had been common throughout Christendom, but rather on January 1. Because Easter was a lunar and therefore moveable date, those who clung to the old ways were the “April Fools.” Others have suggested that the timing of the day may be related to the vernal equinox (March 21), a time when people are fooled by sudden changes in the weather.
There are variations between countries in the celebration of April Fools’ Day, but all have in common an excuse to make someone play the fool. In France, for example, the fooled person is called poisson d’avril (“April fish”), perhaps in reference to a young fish and hence to one that is easily caught; it is common for French children to pin a paper fish to the backs of unsuspecting friends. In Scotland the day is Gowkie Day, for the gowk, or cuckoo, a symbol of the fool and the cuckold, which suggests that it may have been associated at one time with sexual license; on the following day signs reading “kick me” are pinned to friends’ backs. In many countries newspapers and the other media participate—for example, with false headlines or news stories.
More Articles
5 Easter Activities for Seniors and Families to Enjoy Together This 2025
Why Is It Important to Make Easter Special for Seniors—at Home or in Retirement Communities? Because Easter can do more than fill a basket—it can …
National Healthcare Decisions Day: 10 Ways for Seniors to Plan for the Future
Share our good news:
Recipe of the Month
Classic Greek Salad (Horiatiki)
Ingredients:
4 ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
1 cucumber, sliced
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
½ cup olives (dark or green)
1 block of feta cheese (about 200g)
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp red wine vinegar (optional)
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
Crusty bread (for serving)
Directions:
In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper.
Add the olives and gently toss everything together. Place the block of feta cheese on top of the salad. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar (if using). Sprinkle with dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Serve immediately with crusty bread on the side.
Associate of the Month
Christy McCoy
We proudly congratulate Christy McCoy for being named our April Employee Spotlight! At 36 years old, Christy stands out as a dedicated and passionate team member who excels in writing and embraces a diverse range of music. She values the relationships she has cultivated with both residents and staff, making her an integral part of our community as one of our outstanding servers in the dining room.
As a proud mother to her child, Salina, Christy also represents her roots from Caledonia, Mississippi, and has firmly established herself after 15 years in Alabama. Her favorite color is purple, and she possesses ambitious goals, including writing a movie. Christy’s journey with us began out of necessity, and it has quickly proven to be one of her best decisions. Her favorite number, 8, embodies her vibrant and confident spirit. We are proud to count Christy among our incredible team members!
Olympic Mascots
Collaborators
Julie Campbell
