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Santa Claus, also known as Saint Nicho- Pierropoulos, M 12/04 las, Saint Nick, Kris Kringle, Father Christ- Urban, B 12/09 mas, or simply Santa, is a legendary figure Kavooras, I 12/09 of Western culture who is said to bring to Argianas, G 12/12 the homes of well-behaved ("good" or "nice") Klebe, J 12/14 Inside this issue: children on Eve ( 24) and the early morning hours of Christmas Karavas, J 12/15 Melidones, I 12/16 Special Points of Interest / Birthdays Day (December 25). Yomine, H 12/16 Activity Happenings is generally depicted as a portly, Zaxarias, V 12/22 Christmas Giving Tree joyous, white-bearded man - sometimes with spectacles - wearing a red coat with white Tremulis A 12/24 Volunteers Needed fur collar and cuffs, white fur-cuffed red Tzovanis E 12/24 Moments To Remember trousers, and black leather belt and boots and Hutchison, R 12/25 Life Enrichment Calendar who carries a bag full of gifts for children. Pantazelos, B 12/25 This image became popular in the United Froustis, T 12/28 National Aids Day States and Canada in the 19th century due to Zielinki,K 12/28 Special Thank you the significant influence of the 1823 poem "A Klebe, M. 12/31 Questionnaire about Santa Claus Visit From St. Nicholas" and of caricaturist and political cartoonist, Thomas Nast. This image has been maintained and reinforced through song, radio, television, children's books, films, and advertising.

1 Activity happenings ... December 1- World AIDS Day History

Welcome December, one of the most joyous months of the year, full of happenings, giving and sharing World AIDS Day serves to remember those who have died from AIDS and to bring about with our dearest friends, and unforgettable moments including the birth of our Lord. awareness of HIV/AIDS through education and publicly held events. HIV is a virus that attacks

As we expected, November was a busy month. The beginning of the month began with our residents the body's immune system and makes it progressively more difficult to fight infections and diseases. Once HIV advances and becomes so severe that the body's immune system is too weak casting their votes for the Presidential Election. We celebrated the Cub’s World Series Victory with a to fight off many infections and diseases, it is called AIDS. There is currently no cure for HIV or grand party; residents and staff dressed in Cubs gear, enjoyed ‘ballpark’ food while they watched the AIDS and if left untreated by antiretroviral medication, patients' immune systems fail leading to death. World AIDS highlights of the World Series games in the first floor activity room. On November 21 we celebrated the Day is also an opportunity for people to show their support for people living with HIV. Feast Day of our Chapel, Ta Eisodia Tis Theotokou, The Entrance of the Theotokos, with a Divine Litur- gy and Artoklasia. His Eminence Metropolitan Iakovos presided and was assisted by Father Chrysanthos World AIDS Day is one of the 8 WHO Global Health Days. The day was created by the World Health Organization Kerkeres, Father Sotiri Malamis, Deacon Vasilios Smith and Deacon Chris Avramopoulos. Our residents, in 1988. Since its inception over two decades ago, the world has managed to halt and reverse the spread of HIV. According to the WHO, the occurrence of new cases has decreased 35% between 2000 and 2015, while AIDS-related families and guests thoroughly enjoyed this auspicious Liturgy and celebration. Afterwards all were deaths have decreased by 24% over the same time frame, all thanks to antiretroviral treatments and widespread AIDS treated to a lovely reception hosted by the Women's Auxiliary who provided an abundance of delicious education and awareness. World AIDS Day is observed on December 1st of each year. homemade pastries and desserts. We would like to extend our gratitude to everyone who came to make this day truly special.  The theme for World AIDS Day in 2015 was Getting to Zero

Some of the residents had the opportunity to enjoy a wonderful afternoon at the Saint Haralambos  The Red Ribbon is the universal symbol of support for those living with HIV/AIDS. Holiday Bazaar. It was an incredible luncheon with many delicious foods, pastries, beautiful tables,  The AIDS Memorial Quilt Project allows friends and family members of someone who has died from AIDS to and a visit with Santa. The finale of the month was captured with the Thanksgiving holiday party. On this construct a quilt panel and have it placed in the quilt. The quilt travels and is displayed throughout the US. day all residents with their families and staff celebrated with a grand Thanksgiving feast with all the  The first case of what is now known as AIDS was reported in the US in June 1981. trimmings. This delicious meal was prepared by our wonderful kitchen staff and donated by Mr. Peter  According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than a million people in the are living with Marinis of Fresh Market Place. We truly give thanks to him and his entire family! HIV infection, and almost 1 in 5 are unaware of their infection.

With the holiday season in full swing we ask that you keep track of all our special events, including the  According to World Health Organization, AIDS has claimed over 39 million lives globally. Family Holiday Brunch, Residents Christmas Party and Residents New Year’s Eve Party. In addition, we look forward to all the school groups, the various organizations and our Philoptohcos ladies who will visit and spread good cheer throughout December with their angelic voices and delicious treats.

Please remember to assist us by picking up a name or two from our Christmas giving tree. Special thank you to all

Thank you all and Happy Holidays! Vasiliki Stratikopoulou, Life Enrichment Director We would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to all of our volunteers. We truly appreciate all that you have done for the residents and the facility over the years. We know that this is a commitment of your time and talents.

The Life Enrichment Department is thankful for all of your help with our monthly activities. The facility is thankful for the time you spend keeping our residents company and bringing them your sweets, but most especially, sharing your love with them. 660 Lake Cook Road 1913 Waukegan Road Deerfield, IL Additionally, I want to thank all churches, schools, silogous and Philoptochos groups that Glenview, IL Phone: 847-940-0777 will come during the Christmas holidays. Your visits make this special holiday season Phone: 847-486-1988 Hours: Mon-Sun 6am– 4pm even better and brighter. A special thank you to Demetri’s Restaurant in Deerfield for hosting Please support this wonderful We look forward to your visits in the near future.

monthly lunch outings for our Residents. establishment with great quality food. God Bless You All!

Kids Questions to Santa from In the spirit of giving, we thought it would be nice to make sure the holidays are special for each and every one of our residents. Around the World ... Is there really a Santa Claus? To participate: 100%....Santa Claus is as REAL as the "Spirit of Christmas" found within your Heart and as  Pick a name from the Giving Tree  Chose one of the three listed gifts to purchase OLD as "Christmas Past and Future". After all, if I wasn't real, who would be typing this now  Return the gift you purchased in a gift bag and replying to all the e-mails?  with the enclosed label (NO boxes please)

We will be labeling items before they are given to The residents to make sure nothing gets lost and What was the FIRST toy Santa Claus every made? everyone receives a gift. It was a hand-carved piece of wood that looked like a cat, Santa gave this wooden carving to a child, and all the other children heard about this and wanted Santa to make them one. He called We ask that you return all gifts no later than this wooden carving a TOY.....the first time the word was ever used. From that time forward December 15, 2016 children have called fun things to play with TOYS. Our Life Enrichment Department will pass out the gifts at the Resident Christmas Party. Thank you for your generosity and have a blessed holiday!

Why does Santa Claus give toys to children? **For further details, please contact He gives toys only to good boys and girls, as he loves putting a smile on there faces and mak- Vasiliki Stratikopoulou, Life Enrichment Director ing them happy. at 847-459-7000 ext 1044 or via email at [email protected]

Why does Santa Claus where RED? Volunteers needed … Mrs. Claus made his RED suit from the very first day he started to deliver toys on and he has worn it every since. Red was a bright and cheerful color and made Santa stand Have you ever wondered to yourself how you can make a positive out from other grownups so the children could see him better. impact on another person’s life? Well, becoming a volunteer can be a very rewarding experience.

Here at the Greek American Rehabilitation and Care Centre we are always looking for friendly, outgoing and passionate individuals to lend a helping hand. There are many ways you can be of assistance such as, visiting with the Residents, providing additional support during activities, assisting with special projects How does Santa deliver all those toys in ONE night? or events, helping provide clerical assistance or even volunteering in our gift shop. Actually its almost like 2 nights....because when it is day on one part of the world.....it is night To begin your volunteering experience today, visit our website at www.garcc.org and complete the volunteer on the other.....so he delivers on one side...then the other side of the world when it turns night. application, or feel free to stop in and pick up an application from our first floor receptionist. So he doesn't have to deliver all the toys in one night, you see. * * If you have any questions in regards to volunteering, please feel free to contact Vasiliki Stratikopoulou, Volunteer Coordinator @ (847) 459 - 8700 ext. 1044 or email her at [email protected]. .

Therapy Corner DAY - A Letter of Appreciation

The following letter to the Director of Therapy is from Maria Yes, there really was a Christian Saint Nicholas. He lived in the Pekarska who spent almost a month on the second floor at country of Greece, just a couple hundred years after the birth of Greek American Rehab and Care Centre for short-term Christ. December 6 is the day we honor Saint Nicholas and his life. rehabilitation. We hope all of our patients are as successful with their therapy as Maria was. Saint Nicholas became a priest, and later, a Bishop of the early Catholic and Apostolic Church. True to the Christian concept of Dear Rehab Director, giving up belongings and following Christ, St. Nicholas gave up all of his belongings. He was well known for giving to the needy people, I am writing to express my gratitude for a wonderful experience during my rehabilitation. I especially children. There are may stories and tales of him helping children in need. sincerely appreciate Dr. Brodsky for his professionalism and attention. I am very thankful to the entire Greek American Rehabilitation team, especially nursing with Arvin Decolon- The practice of hanging up stockings originated with Saint Nicholas. As the ancient legend gon, Jolanta Osie, Elize Dulangion, Andrea Cordero; therapy department with Joellyn goes, Saint Nicholas was known to throw small bags of gold coins into the open windows of Schwartz, Marina Levit and Lindsay Davidson; admissions director Joan Thorholm; social poor homes. After one bag of gold fell into the stocking of a child, news got around. Children worker Gert Walsh; Vasiliki Stratikopulos with activities. Their warm and sincere care soon began hanging their stocking by their chimneys "in hopes that St. Nicholas soon would helped me in my recovery. I am leaving this wonderful place in good spirits. May it always be there". be like this for patients in the future. It wasn't until the 1800's that the spirit of St. Nicholas' life evolved into the creation of Unfortunately, I don’t speak any Greek. But it was a great pleasure to stay in a Greek at- Santa Claus, which happened in America. Santa Claus emerged (or mosphere because my maternal grandmother was Greek. She died however, before I was evolved) from the stories and legends of St. Nicholas. Santa Claus was born. It gave me a chance to get in touch with my heritage. Once more, thanks for every- always kind and generous to children. thing. Have a happy St. Nicholas Day. Sincerely, Maria Pekarska Holiday Family Branch LIKE US On Facebook… It will be a great honor if you join us in our annual Family Holiday Brunch

On Saturday, December 3rd. We plan to have a day full of celebration and surprises. Families are invited to their love Have a Facebook? Like us and stay up-to-date with everything that’s happening, ones respective floors to enjoy a holiday meal together. After sharing a lovely meal, join us including pictures, specials activities and programs, as well as, in the Activity Room on the first floor for live entertainment. new changes in Medicare and Medicaid services!

http:// httpwww.facebook.comGreekAmericanRehabilitationandCarecente We look forward to seeing you and enjoying a wonderful and memorable day together.

4 Greek American Rehabilitation & Care Center December 2016 Life Enrichment Calendar

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

1 2 3 10:00 Orthodox Service CH 10:00 Kick the ball 11:00 BAKE SALE 2:00 Bingo 2FL 10:20 Stretching the mind 2/3FL 11:30 CHRISTMAS 3:00 Greek Coffee with St. Haralambos– 2FL 2:00 Bingo 3FL FAMILY BRUNCH 7:00 Christmas Carols with 3:00 Arts and Crafts: 1:30 Music Time With United Methodist Make your own Gifts 3FL Niko 1Fl Church 4:00 Sing along with me 3FL 2:00 Catholic Service 2FL 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 10:00 Morning Exercise-2/3 FL 10:00 Light & Lively 2/3 FL 10:00 Bible Study– CH 10:00 Orthodox Service CH 10:00 Sit and Be Fit - 2/3FL 11:00 Christmas Carols 10:00 Morning Stretch 3 11:00 Sing Carols With Daniel 1:30 Jewish Group 2FL 10:30 Stretching The Mind 2/3FL 2:00 Let’s WII with Yarelli 10:30 Let’s be more beautiful w/ Saint Demetrios 2FL 10:15 Greek Service 2/3 Wright Junior High 2:00 Bingo-2FL 2:00 Christmas Show with – 2FL 2:00 Holly Cross Visit TV Lounge School 2FL 3:00 Greek Coffee with with Vassiliki 2:00 Movie N’ Snack Sandy 2Fl 2:00 Fabulous Food Club - 3:00 Bingo 2FL Friends -2FL 2:00 Bingo 3FL 3:00 Bingo 2 FL 3:00 Bingo 2FL 3:00 Bingo-3FL Kourabiedes 2FL 4:00 Dinner Time Set Up. 6:30 Wheel of Fortune-1FL 6:00 Christmas Carols with 4:00 TV Classics - 4:00 Dinner Time Set Up 3:00 Bingo – 2FL 5:00 Outing: children of Saint John 2&3Fl

6:15 Board Games 1FL the Baptist 6:15 Scrabble Club-1FL

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 10:00 Morning Stretch 10:00 Morning Stretch 2/3 10:00 Light &Lively-2/3FL 10:00 Bible Study– CH 10:00 Orthodox Service 10:00 Morning Stretch - 2&3FL 10:00 Movie Classics 2&3 2&3 10:30 Stretching The Mind 2/3 FL 11:00 Singing carols w/ children 2:00 Lets WII with Yarelli 2FL 1:30 Jewish Group 2FL 11:00 Train your mind– 2&3 FL 2:00 Choir with our 10:15 Greek Service -2&3 2:00 Greek Hour & Music with of Guardian School 3:00 Bingo– 2FL 2:00 Greek Coffee with St. 2:30 Music and Bingo 3FL friends 2FL TV Lounge Victoria 2FL of Saint 4:30 Dinner Time Set Up Demetrios, Elmhurst 6:15 Hangman—1FL 2:00 Catholic Service 2:00 Christmas Carols 2:30 Birthday Bash & Pizza 2:00 Fabulous Food Club - 3:00 Bingo – 2FLR 2fl w/ Holy Trinity 6:30 Wheel of Fortune 1FL Party w/ Saint Haralambos 2FL CHEESEPIE 2FL 3:00 Bingo time 2FL Philoptochos 3:00 Bingo—2FL 3:00 Bingo-3FL 6:15 Card Games-1FL

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

10:00 Light &Lively-2/3FL 10:00 Morning Stretch - 10:00 Morning Stretch 2/3FL 10:00 Bible Study– CH 10:00 Orthodox Service 10:00 Morning Stretch 2/3FL 10:00 Movie Classics-2&3 10:30 Kick the ball 2/3FL 2&3 10:30 Stretching The Mind 2/3FL 2:00 Making your 1:30 Jewish Group 2FL 10:30 Stretching The Mind-2/3F 2:00 We will make our 3:00 Bingo –2 FL 2:00 Greek Hour With Victoria 2:00 Fabulous Food Club- own presents 2FL 2:00 Christmas Party with 11:00 Let’s be more beautiful own cake 2FL Visit from Santa 6:00 Christmas carols 3FL MELOMAKARONA 2FL 3:00 Bingo-2FL with Vassiliki 3:00 Bingo 3:00 Bingo—2 FL 3:00 Bingo-2FL w/ children from 3:00 Bingo 3FL 4:30 Dinner Time Set Up 2/ 3 FL 2:00 Lucero sings for us 2FL 4:00 TV Classics– 2&3 6:00 Monopoly time 6:30 Wheel of Fortune 1FL St John the Baptist 3:00 Bingo- 3FL 6:15 Board Games 1FL 6:15 Scrabble 1FL

25 26 27 28 29 30 31 NEW YEAR’S EVE 10:00 Morning Stretch 2&3 10:00 Light &Lively-2FL&3FL 10:00 Bible Study– CH 10:00 Orthodox Service 10:00 Morning Stretch 2/3 FL 10:00 Movie Classics-2&3 10:30 Target Toss 2/3FL 1:30 Jewish Group 2FL 10:30 Christmas Trivia 2 FL 10:30 Stretching The Mind 2/3 FL 2:00 Resident & Food 2:00 New Year’s Eve 2:00 Visit with Lakonian 2:00 Greek Coffee with 2:00 Pick up your present 2:00 Greek Hour w/ refresh- Council Meeting 2FL Party 2FL Brotherhood the Ladies of 3FL ments w/ Victoria 3FL 3:00 Bingo - 2FL 3:00 Bingo-2FL Achladokampos 3:00 Bingo—3FL 3:00 Bingo 3:00 Special Christmas 3:00 Bingo—3FL 6:15 Card Games 1FL 4:00 Dinner Time Set Up 3:00 Bingo 3FL 4:00 TV Classics– 2&3 Bingo - 2FL 6:15 Board Games 1FL

All activities are subject to change. All changes will be posted on the large Life Enrichment Calendar on each floor. Moments to Remember