201Fall S9emester SEPTEMBER THROUGH DECEMBER Hello and thank you for your interest in Watermark University! The foundation of Watermark University (WU) is to provide meaningful opportunities to learn, teach and grow, resulting in a life of overall well-being. Research shows that learning and keeping our mind active and sharp supports healthy aging.
At Watermark Retirement Communities® we are committed to encouraging our residents and associates to lead balanced lives, full of meaning and purpose, grounded in self-awareness and infused with curiosity. Our Watermark University courses help achieve this goal.
By focusing on the Seven Dimensions of Well-being: Physical, Social, Intellectual,
Spiritual, Emotional, Environmental, and Vocational we offer the opportunity to achieve a balanced life and we see the benefits across the country in every class, every day.
Sincerely,
Lauren Granata Lauren Granata Community LIfe Director COURSES FACULTY DAY AND TIME LOCATION
Acrylic Painting Maralyn Adlin Thursdays at 11:15am Art Studio
This class focuses on learning the techniques and skills needed to create representational and abstract paintings. Students will learn how to paint different compositions such as still life, landscapes, figure and portrait paintings. All skill levels are welcome!
1st & 3rd Denise Taylor and Amy The Inn/The Springs Art and Beyond Monday/Thursday of the Guyette The Villa/The Lodge Month During these bimonthly sessions, Therapeutic Arts Specialists Denise Taylor and Amy Guyette offer residents the opportunity to learn new techniques and approaches to art with a variety of materials and media. Art is beneficial to us in so many ways as it can relax, motivate, validate, promote empowerment, encourage fine and gross motor skills, as it makes us feel good about ourselves.
Art Through The Ages ArtScapades Monthly at 2:00pm The Auditorium
Tuesday, September 3~The Italian Renaissance The styles of the great Italian artists who worked in the 15th & 16th centuries who laid the foundations for the development of western art will be discussed. The focus is on Sandro Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Micelangelo Buonarroti. Tuesday, October 15~Dutch and Flemish Baroque In Dutch and Flemish Baroque, we will detail how art moved forard led by the Dutch Realism School of the 17th century, leaving religious themes behind. Works by Peter Paul Rubens, Rembrandt van Rijn, and Jan Vermeer will be discussed. Tuesday, November 5~Neoclassicism In Neoclassicism, we will give you the history of factors that brought Neoclassicism into including the rise of scientific thinking and the social changes brought about by the French Revolution. This lecture covers Angelica Kauffman, Jacques-Louis David, and Jean Auguste-Dominique Ingres. Tuesday, December 10~French Impressionism In French Impressionism, we will give you the history of factors that brought the movement to Paris including the redesign of the city, the growth of the cafe culture, the impact of the Industrial revolution and advances in materials and technology. We will look at Edouard Manet, Claude Monet, Pierre Auguste Renoir in this lecture. COURSES FACULTY DAY AND TIME LOCATION
Audubon Center Bent of Ken Elkins One Wednesday a Month Meeting Room the River September 11- Help Birds on their Journey Fall migration is a challenging time for birds. Find out what birds are stopping in your yard or local park during migration. Learn how to turn your yard or park into an oasis for migratory birds. The right plants provide important food, and reduce hazards by turning off lights at night and making your windows bird- friendly. October 9- All About Owls Open your eyes wide for a fascinating look into the secret lives of all eleven species of owls that have been known to appear in Connecticut. A few species are much more common than most people realize, but we’ll discuss the threats to all owls created by humans. The group will learn more about their natural history by sharing their personal experiences with owls. November 13 - Species on the Brink Shrinking and shifting ranges could imperil nearly half of U.S. birds within this century. Audubon's scientists are plotting a future for birds. Here's how they could survive. December 11 - Nocturnal Birds Owls are the most popular nighttime birds, but there are actually many more nocturnal species to watch and listen for than you may realize.
Alternate Thursdays Bios by Request Sherry Thomas at 1:00 pm The Inn
A bi-weekly exploration of the biographies of famous people reveals surprising facts that their lives are sometimes not so different from our own. Classes always consist of an introductory verbal sketch of the actor. A biography from the "Legends of the Silver Screen," will offer a full picture of their lives and there will be a viewing of an example of their work afterward.
2nd Tuesday of the Book Club Carolyn Shanks Card Room Month at 11:00am “A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies . . . The man who never reads lives only one.” – George R.R. Martin...Join us in exploring the world of adventure, mystery, romance, and drama in our monthly book club. If you are interested in joining, please contact resident Carolyn Shanks to find out how!
Canvas Painting Group Audrey Zanzal Monthly The Springs
Once a month, we will gather together to create beautiful canvas paintings! Whether you're a beginner or advanced artist, this class is for you. Come socialize and let your creative juices flow! COURSES FACULTY DAY AND TIME LOCATION
Caregivers Support Last Wednesday of the Denise Julian Art Studio Group Month at 6:00pm The Director of Health Services, Denise Julian leads this monthly forum of sharing new and different information for residents about the Watermark community. Each month, topics will be relevant to residents like you! Don't miss out on these lively, informative sessions.
Chair Yoga For All Karen Terebessy Fridays at 10:00am Club
Chair Yoga is a gentle and restorative form of yoga, designed to increase flexibility, strength, balance, and circulation. Chair Yoga encourages proper breathing and better posture while also releasing stress, tension and balancing the body's systems for an overall sense of well-being. Each class includes breath work, stretching and strengthening, a brief stress-reducing meditation and gentle neck and shoulder massage at the conclusion.
Culture and Cuisine From Audrey Zanzal Monthly The Springs Around the World Each month we will pick a different country to focus on. We will talk about the country's history, traditions, and discuss recipes the country is known for!
Tuesday, November 12 at Current Events: Iran Mark Albertson Auditorium 1:30pm Join Historian Mark Albertson as he discusses the current events that fill our daily new headlines regarding Iran.
October 10th 3:00pm Decorative Plate Designs Audrey Zanzal Art Studio December 12th 3:00pm Come join us as we create decorative plates! In this class, we will transform glass plates into beautiful fall and winter themed creations using fabric and mod podge. Keep your plate for yourself or give it away as a homemade gift to a loved one or friend! COURSES FACULTY DAY AND TIME LOCATION
The Dick Cavett Show: First Thursday of the Sherry Thomas Auditorium Hollywood Greats Month at 3pm "Growing up in Nebraska, Dick Cavett never dreamed that the movie stars he worshiped on the silver screen would someday be guests on his show." With A-List names such as: Fred Astaire, Marlon Brando, Bette Davis, Katharine Hepburn, Alfred Hitchcock, John Huston, Groucho Marx, and Orson Welles, it is easy to see why Cavett would never have expected his personal dreams be realized. Our dreams are realized as we watch these cinematic icons become humanized under Cavett's uniquely skillful probing. Join us as we enjoy these priceless private moments, inside stories, and endless laughter.
Last Saturday of the Diners, Drive-Ins, & Dives Tasha Jones Main Lobby Month at 11:00am Join Tasha for this bus trip to an unknown destination! She will be mirroring the basic premise of the show and bring you to a local Diner, Drive-In, or Dive which serves up some unexpected treats. She will bring you some of the house favorites and tour you through the drive along the way. Review the chef's specials and decide while enjoying lunch if this is a local treasure or just a run of the mill location. Discuss and learn some Diner lingo... and the inspiration for these local haunts.
First Wednesday of the Discovery Series HealthPro Rehab Auditorium Month at 1:00pm Our rehab facilitators, Health Pro Rehab will provide monthly interactive programs to discuss important health topics, followed by a screening or physical clinic. Don't miss out on these important programs that could positively impact your health and well being!
Drawing for Everyone Maralyn Adlin Mondays at 10:00am Art Studio
In this workshop, you will learn how to use a drawing pencil to create expressive lines, contour, value (tonal), perspective, shape and form. Learning these tools will make what what you draw jump off the page to make the illusion believable. All skill levels are welcome! Come and try something new!
2nd, 3rd, and 4th Ecumencial Bible Study Reverend Cindie Holden Meeting Room Mondays at 11:15am
Interested in studying the Bible, the meaning of gospel, and the history and background of biblical sayings? Join Reverend Holden from the United Church of Christ as she leads a Biblical discussion of different verses, their meanings and impact on our daily lives.
COURSES FACULTY DAY AND TIME LOCATION
Emergency Preparedness: Thursday, October 10th Skip Savino Auditorium Emergency & Evacuation at 1:30pm Plans Do you know what the protocol is if there is a fire in our community? Do you know what is in place in our building to protect you? What happens in the event of a hurricane, blizzard or tornado? Join Skip Savino for an informative session on emergency preparedness. He’ll walk you through what you should do in the event of any natural disaster emergency so that you will feel prepared at all times.
The Fall Night Thursday, October 3 at Parker Moreland Auditorium Sky/Astronomy 101 1:30pm Join Parker Moreland as he introduces you to the fall night sky. Starting with the constellations of the Northern sky, we will then focus on the major seasonal constellations, moon and planets in the Southern Sky. We will use ipad and PC interactive apps and astrophotography to recognize and learn more about these wonders in the sky. Using thee apps and your own PC or ipad, you can continue to explore the sky, as seen from any location and at any time in the comfort of your Watermark home.
October 23, November Feel Good Tunes: Bill Tasco 13 & December 11 at Auditorium A Potpourri of Music 1:30pm A mix of the best songs and sketches of the 1950's, including some opera performers, string bands, Jimmy Durante and more! Come join Bill for a great time, great music and great musical memories from the past! A new show on every date!
3rd Wednesday 10:30am The Inn Health Exchange Kathleen Pye 3rd Tuesday 10:30am The Villa 4th Tuesday 10:30am The Lodge Everyone wants to be as healthy as possible. During monthly classes, Kathleen Pye, Nursing Supervisor for Health Services at Watermark, presents relevant topics including, current research, discussion and reviewing good daily habits like eating well, exercising, fluid intake, sleep, social pursuits and many other pertinent subjects for overall optimal well-being.
Hot Topics Watermark Residents Fridays at 11:00am Auditorium
Come together each week to enjoy stirring, intelligent conversation and exchange of views with others. Discussions include what is going on in the news around the world, in our country, state & local levels.
COURSES FACULTY DAY AND TIME LOCATION
Tuesdays September 24, It's Five O'Clock Jeff Williams October 22 and W Lounge Somewhere November 19 at 3:00pm Micro-breweries are popping up all over Connecticut, so maybe we need to get in on this trend and see what’s brewing! Join Jeff and have a sampling of some Connecticut based and brewed beers, ales, IPAs, stouts, and lagers. We’ll also enjoy some appropriate “beer snacks” to go along – pretzels, nuts, etc.!
First Thursday of the Jewish Faith Talks Rabbi Eric Polokoff Auditorium Month at 11:00am Jewish history and the central tenets of the Jewish faith will serve as a springboard to question and discussion. Rabbi Polokoff will also engage participants in a discussion about faith and how Jewish Heritage and culture plays into our daily lives.
Kindness Rocks Lauren Granata Monthly Art Studio
Join the global phenomenon of painting kindness rocks! Explore your creativity while spreading kind and inspirational words through painted designs and messages on rocks. Then we'll place them outside in the Community for others to view, find or keep for their own personal inspiration. Become a part of this movement sweeping the nation!
Kitchen Creations Tasha Jones One Saturday per Month The Villa
Pies, cakes, cookies; all types of sweet treats! Tasha and the Villa residents will be baking up a different dessert to enjoy every month.
Fridays September 13, Latin & Caribbean Music Donald Alfano 20, 27 & October 4, 11 & Auditorium 18th at 1:30pm Latin & Caribbean Music is a mini course that discusses the music, culture and background of selected countries in the Caribbean and Latin America. The music of this region has become internationally popular and captivating due to the unique blending of various cultures namely the African, European and indigenous population. The classes will highlight both familiar and more obscure styles of music with recorded examples and visual aids. Partial list of topics discusses will be: Jamaican popular music, Trinidadian Steel bands, the many styles of the Spanish Caribbean (Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic) Haiti and the French Caribbean, Mexico and her music, the marimba in Guatemala and Nicaragua, music in Andean Peru, traditional music in Colombia, the African and European influence on Brazilian Music, Argentine vocal and instrumental music, and the tango. COURSES FACULTY DAY AND TIME LOCATION
Leroy Anderson Sherry Thomas Fall 2019 Auditorium/OutTrip Biography Event You may not recognize his name, but if you hear any of his compositions, you'll know him instantly: Sleigh Ride, The Syncopated Clock, The Typewriter and the number one hit of 1952, Blue Tango. Leroy Anderson may have been born in Cambridge, MA and spent much of his life associated with Harvard and the Boston Pops, but his true home from 1953 to 1975 was in Woodbury, CT! His Mid-Century Modern home was designed by architect Joseph Stein and sits on an 11 acre site just 6 miles from Watermark. We will begin by viewing an hour long PBS biography narrated by Dick Cavett on the day before our visit. The Leroy Anderson Foundation owns and offer tours of the house on select weekends in the fall. Together, we will learn about the magic of the man and his manse. Lunch will follow at one of the delectable Woodbury eating establishments.
Mad Men 101 Sherry Thomas Every Monday at 3:30pm Cinema
If you were alive during the 1960’s, watched television, read a magazine and lived your life even somewhat aware of what was going on around you, this class will be as familiar as your own family photo album. The AMC series, Mad Men, ran for 92 episodes between July 19, 2007 and May 17, 2015. The setting is in the Sterling Cooper advertising agency on Madison Avenue and in the homes and haunts of its characters. The passage of time over the decade includes not only the ins-and-outs of the ad game, but also the historical events of that turbulent decade and their effects on the men, women, races and culture of the era. The critically acclaimed series’ writing and acting earned numerous awards: 16 Emmys and 5 Golden Globes. This historically accurate show is considered to be one of the best television programs of all time. Together, we will watch the weekly episode and then discuss the plot lines, highly developed characters, historic representations and evolving cultural mores. Because of the historical arc of this series ranges from 1960 to 1970, and the grounding of historical events throughout, new viewers are encouraged to join. There will be a lot of familiarity and nostalgia.
Moving to Music Health-Pro Rehab Team Monthly The Villa
Join HealthPRO-Heritage Rehabilitation once a month to enjoy a program that incorporates music to improve the ability to move! Data indicates that the use of music and movement can boost mood and improve focus while allowing individuals to connect with fond memories.
Every Wednesday & The Villa/The Inn Music Therapy Infinity Music Therapy Saturday The Lodge Music Therapy sessions include: Sensory music therapy, music appreciation, drum circles, music games, adult choirs and music for movement. These sessions are for individuals who are looking to improve their overall wellness through music. COURSES FACULTY DAY AND TIME LOCATION
Musical Flash Mobs From First Sunday of the Parker Moreland Meeting Room Around the World Month at 2:00pm A flash mob is a group of at least 10 people who assemble suddenly in a public place, perform then quickly disperse. Come join Parker Moreland for an entertaining collection of flash mob videos from all over the work.
Sept.: Musical Flash Mobs from Around the World Oct.: More Musical Flash Mobs from Around the World Nov.: Even More Musical Flash Mobs from Around the World Dec.: Christmas Musical Flash Mobs from Around the World
Sundays, September 15, Musical History Jeffery Engle October 13, November Meeting Room 10 & December 8 Music is found in every known culture, past and present, varying widely between times and places. Join Jeffery as he will focus his lectures on Rossini, Bernstein and others through his interesting and informative programs. Sit back and listen to the music of these famous artists.
Susan Schimmel & Tom 1st, 2nd & 4th Outdoor Adventurers Out Trip Tozzo Wednesdays at 1:00pm Get out and explore nature! Our outdoor adventure group will visit area walking trails and parks around our surrounding communities. Outdoor walking increases your vitamin D, improves your mood and overall health and well being! Don't miss this opportunity to get outside!
Last Wednesday of the Open Forum Denise Julian Meeting Room Month at 10:00am Denise leads a monthly forum sharing new or different information for residents about Watermark. Each month the topics will be relevant to residents like you! Please join these lively, informative sessions.
PBS: American Last Thursday of the Sherry Thomas Auditorium Experience month in the afternoon We will explore our country's history by watching the acclaimed PBS series, American Experience. Our guide, Sherry Thomas, will be offering conversation before and after the viewing in order to give context to the facts and aid in understanding. Subjects will range from the Civilian Conservation Corps, the Arts of the Works Progress Administration, the Orphan Trains and a two part biography of JFK: Like No Other. COURSES FACULTY DAY AND TIME LOCATION
Pearl Harbor: A Day of Monday, December 16 at Mark Albertson Auditorium Infamy 1:30pm Historian Mark Albertson returns to discuss a defining moment in American history. Join him for a talk on the bombing of Pearl Harbor and how it marked America's official entrance into the second World War. December 7, 1941, The Day of Infamy: America enters the global conflict which would lead to the demise of European colonialism and the advent of the Cold War. December 1941 was the turning point of the conflict; and Pearl Harbor, together with the Soviet Army’s victory over Hitler’s forces at Moscow, charted the course of the eventual defeat of the Axis Powers.
Newtown Strong Therapy The Villa, The Inn, The Pet Therapy Monthly Dogs Lodge, The Springs Pet therapy is a broad term that includes animal-assisted therapy and other animal-assisted activities. Animal-assisted therapy is a growing field that uses dogs or other animals to help people recover from or better cope with health problems, such as heart disease, cancer and mental health disorders. Newtown Strong Therapy Dogs has been training many dogs, and their handlers, to comfort residents all over CT.
Play Reading Tony DiFabbio Mondays at 1:00pm Auditorium
Enjoy reading contemporary and classic plays with an emphasis on building skills for staged readings. We will explore acting techniques through improvisation and theater games to help develop confidence and a sense self-expression. These one-hour sessions promise to be action filled! Come and try out this new program!
Presidents - Facts and One Sunday a month Meeting Room Susan Schimmel Follies at 2:00pm As a child, Andrew Jackson, our seventh President, known as "Old Hickory" was a practical joker. His favorite trick was to move people's outhouses during the night so they couldn't find them. Join Susan to review each President already covered last semester, with their nicknames, end with a fun Presidential trivia game (with candy rewards) and have our history brought alive by revealing the stories we are not taught in school all in a half hour program. COURSES FACULTY DAY AND TIME LOCATION
Sept. 24 Rachel, Rachel 1:30 -3:00 pm Sherry Thomas Auditorium/Out-trip Movie Event Sept. 25 10:30am-2:00pm In keeping with our success in pairing Connecticut-made movies with viewing the film one day and visiting the filming locations the next, we travel to Bethel and Georgetown to see the sites of the 1968 film, Rachel, Rachel. In his directorial debut, Paul Newman, showcases the acting talent of his wife, Joanne Woodward in her role as a spinster schoolteacher who blossoms into her real self over a special summer. What a treat to see the Connecticut countryside as a backdrop against the fine work by Woodward, her real daughters and several local neighborhood children. The movie received Oscar nominations for Best Picture, Best Actress (Joanne Woodward), Supporting Actress (Estelle Parsons), and Adapted Screenplay. For lunch, we will go to the historic (since 1931!) Heibeck's stand, right there on Route 7 in Wilton to enjoy their famous hamburgers, hot dogs and ice cream. Voted the best dogs in CT, best burgers in Fairfield County and the best lobster rolls around! Note: cash only.
SnackCrate: Snacks From Last Wednesday of the Meg Maier Meeting Room Around The World Month at 2:00pm SnackCrate is a monthly subscription program that sends out a box of global goodies to your door step! Join Meg and take a peak inside these monthly mystery boxes to uncover what's inside and to try out new snacks from around the world!
3rd Wednesday of the The Villa Spiritual Explorations Chaplain Samuel Dexter Month The Springs 10:30am/11:00am Join Chaplain Samuel Dexter to connect with your own personal spirituality. That may be a traditional religion, a combination of beliefs, or a non-traditional spirituality. The flexibility and guidance that will be spoken of may help you reconnect with your spiritual self.
Thursday, November 21 Spymistresses John Cilio Auditorium at 1:30 John Cilio is returning to The Watermark, with the story of Allied Women Spies of WWII. Through personal stories of espionage, sabotage and resistance, John will take you on a journey through this historic time where these women were especially prevalent in the Special Operations Executive, a cobbled-together network of spies and amateurs that wrought havoc on German-occupied Europe. These women were trained to handle guns and explosives, memorize complex codes, organize munitions and supplies drops, endure harsh interrogation, and, in some cases, were in charge of thousands of men. To follow their stories is to follow the trajectory of the war. COURSES FACULTY DAY AND TIME LOCATION
Karen Liotta Stitch This! Tuesdays at 12:30pm Art Studio Marcia Bartow After having completed our Twiddle Muff project for our fellow residents in the Villa and the Springs, our group is branching out to other projects to give to others. Whether you crochet, knit, or stitch, come join our lively group for some learning and fun. All skill levels are welcome, as we can teach you any and all stitches. Haven't done it in a while? Well, its like riding bike-your fingers never forget!!
Mondays at 10:00am Club Tai Chi Ann Sullo Thursdays at 10:15am The Lodge If you're looking for a way to reduce stress, consider tai chi (TIE-CHEE). Originally developed for self- defense, tai chi has evolved into a graceful form of exercise that's now used for stress reduction and a variety of other health conditions. Often described as meditation in motion, tai chi promotes serenity through gentle, flowing movements.
Technology James Chapin Wednesdays at 2:00pm Wall Street Room Troubleshooting James Chaplin, technical educator and instructor is available in the Wall Street Room on Wednesdays. He can teach you how to clean up, set up, and revamp your computer equipment. Do you need to learn to use Wi-Fi? Maybe a new program is giving you are hard time? Or do you have questions about your smart phone? James can help!!
Wellness Chat: Healthy First Tuesday of the Azell Wolynski Meeting Room to Thrive Month at 10:00am Join Watermark Nurse Azell Wolynski as she hosts this monthly wellness chat! A new topic every month will be discussed to educate you on ways to keep you healthy and to thrive in your wellness journey here at The Watermark at East Hill.
3rd Thursday of the Wine Tasting Susan Schimmel W Lounge Month at 3:00pm Wine tasting is the sensory examination and evaluation of wine, while learning history, geography and understanding different cultures. Since the practice of wine tasting is as ancient as its production, a more formalized methodology has slowly become established from the 14th century onward. Join Susan from Community Life for this popular class as she offers tastings of different wines every month. COURSES FACULTY DAY AND TIME LOCATION
Wisdom Seekers/Singers Sherry Thomas Fridays at 11:00am The Lodge
As a group with varied religious backgrounds, we gather to explore the common ground of the basics of most faiths: God, Spirit, Wisdom, and more. Every other week, we go into depth on a single subject as we thoughtfully brainstorm our feelings on such topics as "What is Prayer," "Define God," "What is Wisdom," and the like. On the alternate weeks, we express our spirituality by listening to religiously themed music in the categories of Catholic ritual, Protestant liturgy, Jewish klezmer, the ecumenical Christian music of the Iona Community and the many forms of Gospel. As we sing hymns together, we are surprised at the universality of their origins.
Connecticut Historical Thursday, October 17 at Witches in Connecticut Auditorium Society 2:00pm The harrowing story of the hanging of witches in Colonial New England continues to haunt our present- day imagination. The trials and executions of witches in Connecticut predated the more famous Salem witch panic by over 40 years. Hear the stories of some of the women and men accused, tried, and executed as witches and learn how Connecticut successfully controlled the spread of witch accusations long before Salem erupted in panic and violence.
Writer's Workshop Michael Ruscoe Wednesdays at 1:30pm Card Room
In this workshop, we work together as a community to explore the writing process and how we can master it. Under the direction of author and university writing instructor Michael Ruscoe, residents will learn to hone their craft and express themselves in the written word. Residents are free to write fiction, non- fiction, poetry, life journals, memoirs or in any genre that engages their minds and creativity. Authors of all levels or experience are welcome!
Watermark Residents & Wood Shop: Toys for Kids Monthly Wood Shop/Art Studio Associates It's not the North Pole but rather the new Watermark at East Hill workshop where residents will be designing, constructing, and painting cars, planes, tractors etc. to be donated to local children. Beautiful, simple wooden toys, the kind you or your parents or grandparents might have played with more than a half-century ago will be constructed with love! Whether your strength is with tools, construction or art/painting, all are welcome to be a part of this exciting new program. COURSES FACULTY DAY AND TIME LOCATION
Thursday, December 5th Wreath Making Flanders Nature Center Art Studio at 1:30pm Flanders Nature Center staff will demonstrate wreath-making, while teaching about different kinds of local evergreens, from spruce to pine. Decorate one wreath that we will use to decorate our community during the holiday season! Faculty Biographies NAME OF INSTRUCTOR CLASS NAME
Canvas Painting Group, Culture and Cuisine From Audrey Zanzal, TRD Community Life Around the World, Decorative Plates Audrey joined our Watermark team in June of 2018 as our Therapeutic Recreation Director in the Springs. She has worked with seniors in a variety of environments for over ten years. It has been her passion working with this population and finding each individual’s interests to help them achieve their best quality of life. When not at work, Audrey enjoys Orange Theory Fitness, shopping at TJ Maxx, kayaking, cooking, spending time with her family, and curling up with her dog and cat.
Bill Tasco, Transportation Feel Good Tunes: A Potpourri of Music
Bill joined The Watermark team in May 2016. He enjoys the everyday conversations with residents as he brings them to their destinations. He like to bowl, play chess and watch sports and television. On weekends, he spends time with his family and loves to visit his granddaughter.
Open Forum Denise Julian, Director of Health Services Caregivers Support Group Denise has been a member of the staff since the community's inception 25 years ago. Her inspiration comes from "working with our residents who are so eager and willing to share their life experiences and knowledge with us." She has certification for working as a Certified Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia Care Trainer and enjoys providing support care to families and residents who are dealing with the effects of Dementia.
Denise Taylor, Therapeutic Art Specialist Art and Beyond
With a Master's Degree in Expressive Arts Therapies from Lesley University, Denise specializes in developing therapeutic arts programs for seniors and individuals of all ages, as well as those needing assistance. Her classes stimulate cognition, strengthen communication, boost self-confidence and empowerment, and provide coping strategies through the creative process.
Donald Alfano Caribbean & Latin Music
Donald Alfano has operated a successful independent piano studio in the New Haven area for the past several years and is committed to teaching students of all ages and levels. His varied teaching experience includes teaching in public schools and on the college level. Donald received his Bachelor of Music degree from Boston University, and his Master of Music degree from Manhattan School of Music. He earned his Doctor of Musical Arts degree from Case Western Reserve University and the Cleveland Institute of Music where he was the recipient of the Victor Babin Award in Piano and was awarded an accompanying fellowship. In addition to teaching and performing, Dr. Alfano has had several articles published in both foreign and American journals on a variety of musical subjects. NAME OF INSTRUCTOR CLASS NAME
James Chapin, Technical Educator & Instructor Technology Troubleshooting
James has been working with Chapin Business Services since 2010 as a Field Technician. He also volunteers at the Southbury Public Library and Pomperaug Woods answering questions, giving instruction and solving technical issues.
Jeffery Engel Music History
For more than fifteen years, Jeffery Engel has been giving lectures devoted to music history in libraries, colleges and retirement communities throughout Connecticut. He believes that music lectures should be entertaining, as well as informative. To that end, his explanations are never too technical and he infuses his material with amusing anecdotes and musical illustrations. After graduating college with a BA in Music, Jeffery Engel settled in Paris where he resided for fourteen years. There, he studied cello, art history at the Sorbonne and earned diplomas in the French language. Recently, Jeffrey was selected by Litchfield Magazine as one of the fifty most influential people in Litchfield County.
Karen Liotta Stitch This!
Karen joined us at the Watermark one year ago after retiring from a 25 year career in Banking. Karen moved from Pawling, New York to Heritage Village in to be closer to her son and his family. A strong believer in community involvement, Karen reached out to her new hometown, writing articles for the Heritage Village "Around the Ponds" magazine, volunteering for the Southbury Land Trust, Meals on Wheels, the Fulton Street Garden in Waterbury, The Jewish Federation of Western Connecticut, and The Woodbury Senior Center. Attending classes at OLLI at Uconn gave her a new view of continued education- inspiring her to share her knowledge of crocheting and knitting. With her love and enthusiasm for others, her positive attitude and her "you can make a difference" belief, Karen joined us and is excited to be a part of our University.
Karin Terebessy, Certified Yoga Instructor Chair Yoga For All
Karin believes Yoga is accessible to anyone. She has had a wonderful time teaching Yoga to seniors, pregnant women, moms, babies, kids, teenagers, folks living with chronic conditions and everyone else in between. Karin believes Yoga should always make you feel better about yourself and your place in the world. Laughing and smiling are big with Karin and she looks forward to sharing her passion with all. NAME OF INSTRUCTOR CLASS NAME
Kathleen Pye, RN, BSN Health Exchange Supervisor of Assisted Living Services A graduate of Stony Brook University, Kathleen has almost thirty years’ experience in the nursing field. Kathleen loves caring for our residents and is inspired by the dedication and care provided by her fellow associates. When she is not at The Watermark, Kathleen enjoys working as a holistic nurse with her husband, a Naturopathic physician. She also is blessed with being the mother of two teenagers, two dogs and a very talkative parrot!
Ken Elkins, Education Program Manager Audobon Audubon Center Bent of the River
Ken holds a degree in Environmental Biology and started his career in conservation education at Westmoore Park and quickly moved onto the Connecticut Audubon Society. Ken now serves at the Education Program Manager at the Audubon Center at Bent of the River in Southbury.
Lauren Granata, Community Life Director Kindness Rocks
Lauren joined The Watermark Community in October 2017 as the Community Life Director. Lauren holds her Certificate in Therapeutic Recreation, a Bachelor's Degree in Sports and Leisure Management and a Master's Degree in Park and Recreation Administration. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, especially her husband and her 8 year old twins.
Marcia Bartow Stitch This!
Marcia is a retired teacher of 35 years in Connecticut. She earned her BS Degree from Indiana University where she grew up. Marcia came east to Greenwich and than moved to Brookfield, wanting more land where her children could run and play. Marcia continued her education earning a Master's Degree as a reading consultant specialist and after 32 years in Brookfield, she moved to Heritage Village. Always thirsty for learning Marcia attended classes at the Olli program which opened a door to volunteering at the Fulton Street Garden Project--planting and harvesting food that was donated to those in need. This led to her volunteering with the Jewish Federation and similarly donating food to the Southbury Food Pantry. She is currently a volunteer at the Woodbury Senior Center. Marcia's community involvement is a important part of her life. She continues to follow her passion for teaching and had joined the Watermark as a instructor. NAME OF INSTRUCTOR CLASS NAME
Mark Albertson, Educator & Historian
Mark is both an author and a professor of History at Norwalk Community College for the Lifetime Learners Institute. In May 2005, he was presented with a General Assembly Citation by both houses of Congress in Hartford for his efforts in commemorating the centennial of battleship Connecticut. He is the historical research editor at Army Aviation Magazine, and has been a longtime member of the untied State Naval Institute.
Michael Ruscoe, Writing Professor Writer's Workshop
Michael is an author, journalist, and university instructor who began his career as a reporter with the Connecticut Post in 1985. The author of the novel You'll Do Anything and the anthology Baseball: A Treasury of Art and Literature, Ruscoe is a member of the English Department faculty at Southern Connecticut Sate University where he has taught writing for more than 25 years. He has also taught at Quinnipiac University and Brooklyn College of the City University of New York and has written several education texts. Ruscoe live in Middlefield with his two beautiful children and goldfish.
Parker Moreland, Resident Fall Night Sky/Astronomy 101, Flash Mobs
Parker Moreland, after living in Danbury, CT for 41 years, moved to The Watermark in Sept., 2014. After training as a physicist, Parker has done basic research, managed industrial R & D, and taught high school physics. He has been using computers since 1956 and is currently a heavy user of his iPad, iPhone, and MacBook. Having dabbled with astronomy since earning his PhD, he started doing more serious amateur astronomy while teaching and has been a founding volunteer of the John J. McCarthy Observatory at New Milford High School since 1999. He helps coordinate the Observatory's monthly public star party/lecture/open house event, called Second Saturday Stars.
Rabbi Eric Polokoff, B'nai Israel of Southbury Jewish Faith Discussions
Rabbi Eric Polokoff is the founding Rabbi of B'nai Israel of Southbury. He has been active in the local Jewish and general communities for more than two decades. He's long been involved as a regional and national board member of the Anti-Defamation League. His is the informal moderator of the Southbury Clergy Association, sits on the St. Mary's Hospital and Waterbury Hospital Ethics Committees and is the Associate Jewish Chaplain of the Taft School. Rabbi Polokoff's rabbinic ordination, Master's Degree and Doctor of Divinity are from the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in New York. He received his Sacred Theology Master's from Yale Divinity School and his undergraduate degree from Johns Hopkins University. NAME OF INSTRUCTOR CLASS NAME
Reverend Cyndie Holden, United Christ Church in Ecumenical Bible Study Southbury Reverend Holden is Minister of Pastoral Care and Adult Education at the United Church of Christ in Southbury. Cyndie and her husband, Richard have lived in Southbury for 30 years. Cyndie was formerly a Pastor in Southington and is a graduate of Yale Divinity School.
Reverend Samuel Dexter, United Church of Christ Spiritual Exploration
Reverend Dexter is an ordained minister of the United Church of Christ and is a licensed clinical social worker. He is the manager of the Spiritual Care Program at Regional Hospice and Homecare in Danbury, CT. Samuel lives in Middlebury, Connecticut.
Bios By Request, The Dick Cavett Show: Hollywood Greats, Mr. Deeds Movie Event, Mad Men 101, Sherry Thomas, Community Life Associate Musical Friends, PBS: American Experience, Wisdom Seekers/Singers Sherry Thomas has been a member of the Community Life team since February 2018. In 2008, she earned a Master of Divinity from Andover Newton Theological School, and was a Davis Scholar at Wellesley from 2007-2009. Her primary focus has been in ministry to the elderly which led to a career as a hospice chaplain to those of all faiths at end-of-life. In June, 2017, she earned the designation of Certified Dementia Practitioner.
Skip Savino, Director of Plant Operations Emergency Prepardness
Skip began working at The Watermark Community in November 2016 as the Plant Operation Director. Prior to this, Skip worked in the Apartment Industry since the age of 17. While not at work, he enjoys spending time with his family, working around the house and fishing!
Susan Schimmel, CPT, Community Life Associate Presidents-Facts & Follies, Wine Tasting
Susan began working in the Watermark Community in December 2017. Susan is a certified personal trainer. Her passion for the senior population led her to focus on that demographic for the past nineteen years. Her belief that everyone is an individual is brought to each class. Susan worked as a trainer/instructor at the Heritage Health Club for seventeen years, has worked at Pomperaug Woods for nine years and with individuals in their homes for the past ten years. NAME OF INSTRUCTOR CLASS NAME
Tasha Jones, Transportation Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives, Kitchen Creations
Tasha has been an associate at the Watermark for 3 years, but has been driving her "precious cargo" for more than 18 years. She is the third child of four and has four children of her own who she loves spending times with. She is active in many charitable organizations which include; Making Strides, VA Services and the Connecticut Patriot Guard Riders. She asks that we always remember to take the time to thank a Veteran. INDEPENDENT LIVING • ASSISTED LIVING • MEMORY CARE • REHAB & SKILLED NURSING 611 East Hill Road • Southbury, CT 06488 • 888-570-6659 • watermarkcommunities.com