Senior Living News, June 2025
The Goldton at St. Pete
Newsletter
Around the world with Atlas - June 2025 - Perú
Resident´s Birthdays
Dorothy F. – 6/17
Larry S. – 6/24
Celebrating June
Great Outdoors Month
Say Something Nice Day
June 1
National Yo-Yo Day
June 6
Flag Day
June 14
Father’s Day
June 15
Juneteenth
June 19
First Day of Summer
June 20
Lightning Safety Awareness Week
June 22–28
National Pineapple Day
June 27
While the Inca Empire is the most renowned civilization of Peru, it was preceded by a rich array of cultures that laid the groundwork for its eventual rise
A Little More About Alexa and Speak2
Tech-Enhanced Senior Living at The Goldton at St. Petersburg
No One Wants a Dumb Apartment — Get a Smart One Today!
At The Goldton at St. Petersburg, we believe technology should enhance—not complicate—daily living. That’s why we’ve introduced smart apartments, seamlessly integrated with Alexa and Speak2, bringing convenience, safety, and joy right to your fingertips (or simply your voice!).
How Alexa & Speak2 Enhance Daily Living
Empowering Independence & Prioritizing Safety:
Our smart properties are designed to support seniors’ independence while ensuring peace of mind for them and their loved ones.
• Emergency Response:
Instantly call a care associate or nurse using simple voice commands.
• Security Features:
State-of-the-art smart security systems help residents and families rest easy.
Explore the Possibilities — Just Ask!
With Alexa & Speak2, residents can:
• Get the weather forecast
• Find out what’s for lunch
• Check daily activities and events
• Call the front desk concierge
• Contact housekeeping or maintenance
• Turn lights on or off
• Video call friends and family
• Set personal reminders
• Get community announcements
• Schedule transportation
• Hear the latest news
• Play favorite music or audiobooks
• Connect with fellow residents who share interests
• Ask questions about almost anything
• Get medication reminders
• Call for help if needed
• And much more…
Sounds of Peru
Alexa play "If I could" from "Simon & Garfunkel"
“El Cóndor Pasa” is so iconic that, in 2004, Peru declared it part of the nation’s cultural heritage. The original version is an orchestral piece from the 1913 zarzuela El Cóndor Pasa, composed by Peruvian musician Daniel Alomía Robles and inspired by traditional Andean music.
The most internationally recognized version is “El Cóndor Pasa (If I Could)” by Simon & Garfunkel, released in 1970 on their album Bridge over Troubled Water. Among hundreds of officially recognized adaptations, this rendition introduced the song to a global audience.
Around the World with Atlas - Peru
This month, let’s take a journey to the magical land of Peru—a country rich in history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. No passport is needed for this adventure, just a little imagination and curiosity.
Mysteries of the Ancient World
Peru is perhaps best known as the home of the ancient Inca civilization. High in the Andes Mountains lies Machu Picchu, the “Lost City of the Incas.” This mysterious city, built in the 15th century, still stands as a symbol of the ingenuity of the Inca people. Though reaching the site requires a steep hike, we can admire it from afar through photographs and documentaries, letting our minds wander through its stone corridors and green terraces.
A Taste of Peruvian Flavors
Peru is a land of culinary delights. Imagine savoring dishes like ceviche, a fresh mix of fish marinated in tangy lime juice and herbs. Or lomo saltado, a hearty beef stir-fry influenced by Chinese immigrants. And let’s not forget chicha morada, a sweet purple corn drink enjoyed throughout the country. Even from our favorite chair, we can sample Peruvian recipes or watch videos of traditional food markets bustling with color and life.
Festivals of Joy and Color
Peruvians love to celebrate. Festivals such as Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun, bring people together to honor their ancestors and the changing of the seasons. Dancers in bright costumes fill the streets, accompanied by lively music. Through online videos or photo books, we can experience these vibrant traditions and feel the warmth and joy of the Peruvian spirit.
Natural Wonders Beyond Imagination
From the Amazon rainforest to the soaring peaks of the Andes and the mysterious Nazca Lines etched into the desert, Peru is a country of natural beauty and wonder. Picture cruising along the tranquil waters of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, where the floating reed islands of the Uros people still drift.
Travel with Our Hearts and Minds
Though we may not physically walk the streets of Cusco or climb the Inca Trail, the beauty of armchair travel is that we can explore the world from the comfort of our community. By watching documentaries, reading stories, listening to music, and trying new recipes, we can connect with Peru’s rich culture and let it inspire us.
So, let’s take a deep breath, close our eyes, and imagine the warm Andean sun on our faces, the sound of pan flutes in the air, and the taste of sweet mangoes from a Peruvian market. Join us as we ‘explore’ Peru this month! Look for activities marked ATW
Welcome to Peru
Around the World with Atlas
Land of Ancient Echoes and Living Wonders
Peru is a place where time weaves a magnificent tapestry of past and present. From the dizzying heights of the Andes to the depths of the Amazon rainforest, Peru is a country of contrasts—mystical, colorful, and vibrantly alive. It’s home to ancient civilizations, awe-inspiring landscapes, and cultural traditions that still pulse with life today.
Whether you’re drawn by the lost city of Machu Picchu, the flavors of ceviche, or the haunting sound of Andean flutes, Peru invites you to explore a land where legends walk beside everyday life.
🦙 Amazing Facts about Peru
Machu Picchu Is One of the New Seven Wonders of the World
Built in the 15th century by the Incas and rediscovered in 1911, this mountaintop citadel is Peru’s most iconic site—and a breathtaking symbol of human ingenuity.
Keeping Minds Active at Any Age
Staying mentally active is just as important as keeping our bodies moving. Simple activities can help keep our minds sharp, boost mood, and bring joy to our days.
Reading, playing games like crossword puzzles or trivia, and trying creative activities like painting or storytelling are great ways to engage the brain. Even chatting with friends, reminiscing about favorite memories, or learning something new can stimulate the mind.
The good news is, it doesn’t take much—small, daily activities can make a big difference in keeping our minds active, curious, and connected.
In astrology, those born between June 1–21 are Gemini’s Twins. Geminis love conversation, and they’re good at it, too! Witty, intellectual, curious, charming, and imaginative, they’re the life of the party. If you were born between June 22–30, that makes you a Crab of Cancer. Crabs are nurturers, dedicated to their home and family. Gentle and kind, they love storytelling around the dinner table and enjoy traditions.
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Recipe Spotlight
Peruvian Citrus Ceviche
Ingredients
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
1 tsp fresh ginger. Grated
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 lb fresh sea bass. Diced in 1/4 in cubes
1/2 cup fresh cilantro. Chopped
1 small onion. Diced
2 small avocados. Pitted, peeled, and cubed
salt and pepper to taste
4 corn tortillas
Instructions
In a medium bowl, combine lemon juice, lime juice, orange juice, ginger, and olive oil.
Add the sea bass. Toss to coat.
Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 2 hours. The flesh of the fish should come out white and opaque.
Add cilantro, onion, and avocado. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve on a corn tortilla
Resident of the Month
Merle Strickland
Meet Merle — Our Resident of the Month!
We are proud to honor Merle as The Goldton at St. Petersburg’s Resident of the Month.
Merle is a remarkable veteran, having served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, achieving the rank of Commander and serving as a dedicated Navy Chaplain for 20 years. His life of service, leadership, and compassion is truly inspiring.
Beyond his distinguished military career, Merle was married to his beloved wife Joyce, and together they raised their daughter, Denise, who remains a special part of his life.
Today, Merle continues to embrace life to the fullest. He enjoys listening to music, playing pool, and participating in his favorite community activities, including exercise classes, happy hour, church groups, and bingo.
Thank you, Merle, for sharing your incredible story, your love for family, and your vibrant spirit with all of us at The Goldton!
Associate of the Month
Stanita
We are thrilled to shine the spotlight on Stanita, our wonderful Activity Assistant, as this month’s Associtate of the Month!
Stanita brings joy, creativity, and compassion to every activity they lead. From engaging art projects and lively music sessions to thoughtful one-on-one visits, she always goes the extra mile to make each day brighter for our residents.
Her positive energy is contagious, and her dedication to creating meaningful moments has made a big difference in the lives of those we serve. Whether it’s organizing groups, encouraging reluctant participants, or simply sharing a warm smile, Stanita embodies the heart of our community.
Thank you, Stanita, for your hard work, kindness, and the special touch you bring to everything you do. We are so happy to have you as part of the Goldton team!
We also celebrate
Celebrities born in June include:
Andy Griffith – June 1, 1926
Morgan Freeman – June 1, 1937
Curtis Mayfield – June 3, 1942
Dean Martin – June 7, 1917
Joan Rivers – June 8, 1933
Gene Wilder – June 11, 1933
Burl Ives – June 14, 1909
Meryl Streep – June 22, 1949
June Carter Cash – June 23, 1929
Mel Brooks – June 28, 1926
Collaborators
Lisa Stouffer
