Senior Living News, November 2025
Tribute at Black Hill Newsletter
Around the world with Atlas - November 2025 - Australia
Resident’s Birthdays
Marcia P. – 8th
Bianca S. – 14th
Nancy K. – 23rd
Alice L. – 27th
Joanne S. – 27th
Month's Celebrations
Around the World: Australia
Veteran’s Day
Election Day
Friendsgiving
Events Spotlight
Join us for a Friendsgiving at Tribute at Black Hill!
Celebrate friendship, food, and gratitude together.
Australian Joy
Alexa, play Down Under, by Men at work.
Released in 1981, “Down Under” quickly became a defining song of Australian identity. With its catchy flute riff and witty lyrics, it celebrates the country’s laid-back spirit, humor, and pride. More than a global hit, it remains an unofficial anthem—an upbeat tribute to Australia’s culture, people, and sense of adventure.
The Heart behind the Apron
Cooking the Thanksgiving feast for a large crowd often starts long before Thanksgiving Day. The day before Thanksgiving—Wednesday, November 26, this year—is a day to honor these intrepid holiday chefs and the aprons they so dutifully don. It’s Tie One On Day.
Writer EllynAnne Geisel founded Tie One On Day in 1999. While writing an article about aprons, she was struck by the unique beauty of apron fabrics and design, leading her to curate a traveling exhibition featuring more than 600 aprons. She calls aprons the “armor of domesticity” and shows a true passion for the art of homemaking.
The central tenets of Tie One On Day are qualities of kindness and generosity. Geisel urges us to celebrate by wrapping some home-baked goodies inside an apron and gifting it to someone you care about. Write some kind words on a note and tuck it into the apron pocket, and your gift is bound to warm both their belly and their heart.
Welcome Gaby Portillo (Sales Counselor)
Born in El Salvador and raised in the U.S. from the age of eight, I’m a dedicated sales counselor and full-time mom with over four years of experience in assisted living. I’m passionate about helping families find the right care and support for their loved ones while building meaningful connections every day.
Welcome to Australia
Around the World with Atlas
Australia, the world’s largest island and smallest continent, is a land of striking contrasts—from its vast deserts and tropical rainforests to its bustling coastal cities. Indigenous Australians have lived on the continent for over 60,000 years, developing rich spiritual traditions and deep connections to the land. Their art, music, and stories remain an essential part of the nation’s cultural identity today.
European settlement began in 1788 with the arrival of the First Fleet from Britain, marking the start of Australia’s colonial era. British influence shaped the nation’s language, institutions, and political systems, though this period also brought immense hardship to Indigenous communities. Over time, Australia evolved from a collection of colonies into a unified federation in 1901, forging its own democratic and multicultural identity.
Modern Australia is known for its relaxed lifestyle, love of the outdoors, and vibrant cultural mix. From iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Uluru to its world-class art, music, and sport, the country reflects both its ancient heritage and modern dynamism—a place where tradition and innovation coexist under the southern sun.
Talkin' Turkey
When it comes to barnyard birds, turkeys and chickens rule the roost, but not in the same way. November might be the turkey’s time to shine (or roast), but chickens hold their own all year long. Let’s start with turkeys. Wild ones can fly—surprisingly fast and far, actually—and they sleep in trees. They’re also pretty clever at dodging predators and, yes, humans. Domesticated turkeys, on the other hand, aren’t quite so nimble. Their flashy fans and “gobble gobble” calls are iconic this time of year, but only the males gobble; females stick to more modest clucks and chirps.
Chickens, meanwhile, are the overachievers of the coop. They come in all sorts of breeds, from poofy-headed Polish chickens to speckled Sussex. They each lay about 250–300 eggs a year, which is pretty impressive considering they’re also known to chase bugs, peck your shoelaces, and form complicated social hierarchies.
In fact, chickens have become so popular that many people now keep them in their backyards. Urban and suburban chicken-keeping has taken off in recent years, with folks raising hens not just for fresh eggs but also for their quirky personalities and surprisingly therapeutic company. You don’t need a full farm—just a small coop, a little space, and a willingness to embrace a bit of daily chicken drama.
As for turkeys and Thanksgiving, the tradition dates to the 1800s, when turkey became the centerpiece partly because it was large enough to feed a crowd and not typically used for eggs or milk like other livestock. These days, though, more people are switching things up—serving roast chicken, Tofurky, lentil loaf, or lasagna layered with roasted squash for Thanksgiving’s main course. Some people even decide on breakfast-for-dinner, with stacks of pancakes and cozy casseroles taking center stage. Whether you prefer a traditional meal or trying something new, the spirit of the holiday isn’t in the bird—it’s in the gathering. No matter what’s on the plate, it’s the company that counts.
Tips for the Aging Minds
At Tribute at Black Hill, we believe that staying mentally active is just as important as keeping the body moving. A healthy mind helps improve memory, boost mood, and support overall well-being. Here are a few simple ways to keep minds sharp and spirits bright:
1. Stay Social
Enjoy conversations, group games, or community events. Staying connected with others keeps the mind engaged and reduces feelings of isolation.
2. Keep Learning
Try something new! Whether it’s a craft, a new recipe, or reading about an unfamiliar topic, lifelong learning strengthens brain connections.
3. Move Your Body
Gentle exercise like walking, stretching, or chair yoga increases blood flow to the brain and improves focus and memory.
4. Eat Smart
Brain-boosting foods such as salmon, nuts, berries, and leafy greens can help maintain cognitive health and energy levels.
5. Get Good Rest
Quality sleep allows the brain to recharge and process memories. Establishing a relaxing bedtime routine makes a big difference.
6. Challenge the Mind
Puzzles, trivia, or word games keep the mind active and support problem-solving skills.
7. Manage Stress
Calm moments of prayer, meditation, or music can ease the mind and bring a sense of peace.
8. Stay Positive
A grateful heart and a positive outlook can enhance emotional and cognitive health.
At Tribute at Black Hill, we encourage our residents to nourish their minds every day through purposeful activities, social connections, and joyful experiences. Together, we can keep our minds active and our hearts happy!
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Share our good news:
Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, reflection, and togetherness. Rooted in early harvest feasts shared between settlers and Native Americans, it has grown into a cherished American tradition.
To give thanks for all blessings in life
Golden Wattle, a possible inspiration for the choice of colours
The national colors of Australia are green and
gold. These colors were officially proclaimed
on April 19, 1984, and have since become
synonymous with the country’s identity and sporting heritage.
Resident of the Month
Janet Adams
Janet Adams holds a special place in our hearts as one of the very first residents to call Tribute at Black Hill home! From the moment she arrived, Janet has been the light of every room she enters — always smiling, laughing, and lifting the spirits of everyone around her.
She’s known for her love of animals, her competitive spirit during bingo games, and her fondness for relaxing afternoons watching the news. Janet enjoys chatting with friends, sharing stories from her life, and spreading positivity throughout our community.
Her warm personality and infectious smile remind us of all what it means to find joy in the little things. Janet truly embodies the spirit of togetherness here at Tribute at Black Hill, and we’re so lucky to have her as part of our family.
Associate of the Month
James Youngblood
This month, we’re excited to recognize James Youngblood, who has been part of the Tribute at Black Hill family for four years in our Maintenance Department. James is always willing to lend a helping hand wherever he’s needed — whether it’s fixing something around the community or assisting another department.
His positive attitude, reliability, and genuine care for our residents make him a true asset to our team. It’s no surprise that James is loved and appreciated by everyone here at Tribute!
Thank you, James, for all that you do to keep our community shining!
Collaborators
