DID YOU KNOW?

In this first month of a new year, let’s all vow to be more positive, kinder, to keep on learning and to have fun every day. With that said, I think it’s fun to mull over factoids I maybe didn’t know. Here’s a few to tickle your brain cells.

If you cut down a cactus in Arizona, you be penalized up to 25 years in jail. It is similar to cutting down a protected tree species.

The first movie ever to put out a motion-picture soundtrack was Snow White and the Seven Dwarves.

At birth, a baby panda is smaller than a mouse. (see photo)

Forrest Fenn, an art dealer and author, hid a treasure chest in the Rocky Mountains worth over 1 million dollars. It still has not been found.

German Chocolate Cake is named after an American baker by the name of Samuel German.

The first service animals were established in Germany during World War I. References to service animals date as far back as the mid-16th Century.

75% of the world’s diet is produced from just 12 plant and five different animal species.

Tirana, the capital of Albania has a lot of things in common with other European capitals – except one. It’s one of two capitals without a McDonalds. The second is Vatican City.

Blessings to All!
Jan McAlister, Executive Director

January has arrived and we have new activites for the new year! Check out our January Newsletter to see what is happening this month!

Semi-annual Resident Photo Day

Saturday, January 11th @ 10-11:30 a.m in the Lobby

All Residents, come get an updated photo taken in the lobby. You get an 8 x 10 free. It will be put into the acrylic frame outside your room. We will not remove anything that is currently in your frame. If you prefer an earlier year’s photo you can still use that one. If you want more copies, of the newer photo just let Barbara know. All Residents who do not currently have a photo outside their room need to come get one taken. All we need is you and your smile! See you there!

Veteran's Donations

Pickup on Wenesday, January 15th

On January 15th the Veteran’s truck will be coming to pick up your donations. Clothing, jewelry, household items, small pieces of furniture, working small appliances (no TVs or computers), and miscellaneous household items are all welcome. Bag or box your donations up and leave the night before to the right of the front desk in the lobby.

Birthday Party for the Month

Fourth Friday of the Month @ 3:00 in the Lobby

We have a special little celebration for the residents whose birthday it is that month. Of course, each day we acknowledge residents who are having a birthday with a sign at the front desk. Table mates, family and friends might add to the day with a special cake or card or even flowers, presents or balloons. We do celebrate anyone turning 100 in an extra special way, for example with special write ups, a cake at their table and even champagne! Should we all be so lucky to reach 100! Join in on wishing residents a Happy Birthday – and many more!!

DIY Crafts with Daiana

1st & 3rd Wednesdays @ 12:30-1:30 in the Activities Center

Don’t Miss Out! We know we have some crafters at the Villas! Be sure to come get your creativity on! Daiana does an amazing job with the craft, music to craft to and a special treat to enjoy! Often the crafts are related to the season – Easter, Christmas, Mother’s Day, etc.

Learn Spanish

Fridays @ 2:00 in the theater

Everyone welcome. This is a DVD presentation of a top professor teaching us Spanish.

Touched by an Angel

Sundays @ 11:00 am in the theater

Come join us for this wonderful series! This show will touch you, challenge you, and bless you. Come Join us!

Classic Senior Ladies

Fridays @ 9 a.m. in the Theater

Led by Louise B & Morgan M. This group gets together to talk about life. Members share their week. A topic of discussion is presented and everyone contributes their feelings and experiences pertaining to the topic. They celebrate birthdays and periodically go out to lunch together. It’s a “tight knit” group, and a kind of “sisterhood”. Louise is well-known to the Villas as an RN and a helper to seniors. Morgan is a young San Clemente gal that has loved visiting the group and has now become a regular. Looking for new members! Come check us out!

Water Aerobics with Sandra

Wednesdays at 3:00

This activity is perfect for people who need to exercise, but have difficulty standing and walking. The water holds you up and allows you to do your aerobics without fear of falling. Sandra is a Physical Therapist who specializes in water aerobics. This activity will be held “weather-permitting”. Join us any time! Sandra Wong, MPT

Fireside Chat with Chaplain Mark

First Wednesday of the Month @ 3:00pm in Library

For all residents this is a special time to just come share, learn, listen, fellowship with Chaplain Mark.

Join Us for Bingo!

Mondays 2:00, Wednesdays 2:00, Saturdays & Sundays 3:00

The residents of San Clemente Villas would like to invite adult family members, friends, community members and visitors to come play Bingo with them! $5.00 for 5 games! The more the merrier! Meet new friends! See you there? We hope so!

Monthly Resident Meeting

1st Thursday of the Month

These meetings are a time to learn "what's going on," ask questions, and share concerns. It's also a time to give praise where praise is due!

Don't Miss Them.

January 2020 Employee of the Month

Dianna Mendoza

Dianna Mendoza is an exemplary employee here at San Clemente Villas. Dianna is a driven and highly dedicated human. She has a very strong passion for making people smile and making them feel comfortable and at home. Dianna is a single mother of 3. Her oldest, Brianna is 9, Damian is second, he’s 6 and the smallest is Isaiah of 4 years. She loves to spend time with them and care for them. Dianna enjoys service for others. In her spare time when she is not with her kids, or best friend Esmeralda, she likes to experiment with makeup, hair styling, and coloring. Dianna started working here in the summer of 2009. She was recommended by her mother Patricia Farias who is the housekeeping service Manager. Ever since then, she has been working in basically every department the Villas has to offer. She worked as a caregiver for 8 years then moved to front desk, then to the kitchen as a server, then a driver, assisted in memory care, activities, and is now the Marketing assistant. She also was hired as a personal DJ for Aileen’s parties which she thought was super fun. Dianna loves to work here at San Clemente Villas. She is definitely a great multitasker. Dianna is always available to help in any way she can and always with a smile on her face. We are extremely blessed to have her here as part of our staff. Congratulations, Dianna, on being Employee of the Month!

We Love the ACTIVITIES at the Villas

Here are some of our recent events & activities at San Clemente Villas by the Sea. Our Activities Director, Barbara Tancredi, does a wonderful job, Thank You Barbara!

Welcome December!

Being Santa!

Being Santa must be fun!

Giving gifts to everyone

And riding on a magic sleigh

Jingle jingle all the way.

He’s read a billion Christmas lists,

Employed some elves to wrap the gifts,

Fed the reindeer, tied his boots

And slipped into his nice red suit.

Setting out on Christmas Eve,

Flying over towns and trees,

To every place, down every road

To all the children round the globe.

It’s such a feat of dedication

Speeding to each destination

With a smile upon his face

Then onwards, to another place.

When he’s been all round the world

To every boy and every girl

And left some presents to be found,

His work is done; he’s homeward bound!

Mince pies and milk, he’s had plenty.

His heart is full, his sack is empty.

He cheers as he returns, a winner.

Home in time for Christmas dinner!

“Being Santa” is a short Christmas poem

by English Poet, Ms Moem

Merry Christmas to everyone from Dianna Mendoza and Esmeralda Lopez

A HOLIDAY QUIZ from the desk of the Executive Director

Have a little fun! Get a piece of paper and write down all your answers. Then check them all with the answers listed in another section of the newsletter.

1. According to the poem “Twas The Night

Before Christmas,” which is not one of

Santa’s eight reindeer?

A. Prancer

B. Comet

C. Archer

D. Cupid

2. Roughly translated, the song title of the

New Year’s Eve standard Auld Lang Syne

means:

A. Peace be With You

B. Good Old Times

C. Best Wishes to You

D. Watch Your Back

3. It is said that the Three Wise Men (also known as Magi) came to Bethlehem

bearing what three gifts?

A. Goats, sheep, and song birds

B. Silk, wine, and perfume

C. Gold, frankincense, and myrrh

D. Corn, camel hair, and olive oil

4. Who is credited with writing the 1857 version of the song Jingle Bells,

which went on to become one of the most performed and recognizable holiday

songs in history?

A. James Lord Pierpont

B. John Philip Sousa

C. Frank Bridge

D. Stephen Foster

5. Turkey makes for a favorite holiday feast. Which two states lead the U.S.

in turkey production, combining to account for about 32 percent of all

birds?

A. South Carolina and Tennessee

B. Indiana and Ohio

C. California and Arkansas

D. Minnesota and North Carolina

6. Which statement concerning Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is not

true?

A. He had a very shiny nose

B. He first appeared in 1937 in ads for General Electric

C. He was forbidden from playing “Reindeer Games”

D. He was created to promote Montgomery Ward department stores in 1939

7. According to Dr. Seuss, the Grinch is “cuddly as a cactus” and has “termites

in his smile.” But what is the No. 1 reason for him disliking Christmas?

A. His dog Max is allergic to wreaths

B. He was once poisoned by arsenic in his eggnog

C. All the Hoos in Hooville sing out of tune

D. His heart is two sizes too small

8. Which is not an ingredient in traditional plum pudding (also known as

Christmas pudding)?

A. Plums

B. Eggs

C. Raisins

D. Suet (beef or mutton fat)

9. According to Forbes, the top-grossing Christmas movie of all time is?

A. Elf

B. White Christmas

C. How the Grinch Stole Christmas

D. The Polar Express

10. According to Billboard Magazine, the artist with the best-selling Christmas

album of all-time is?

A. Nat King Cole

B. Mariah Carey

C. Bing Crosby

D. Elvis Presley

Blessings to All!
Jan McAlister, Executive Director

December is here and the activites are abundant! Check out our December Newsletter to see what is happening this month!

Free Photos with Santa

Saturday, December 7th @ 10:00-11:30 in the Lobby

“Chris” and the Mrs. will be in the San Clemente Villas Lobby All Residents, Family Members, Grandkids, Neighbors, Friends Don’t miss it!

Jeff Harnar

Friday, December 27th @ 1:00 in the Lobby

Join us in welcoming Jeff Harnar back to the Villas for his concert Too Marvelous for Words featuring songs of the 1930s!

New Year's Eve Party

Tuesday, December 31st @ 5:45-7:15

“It’s Midnight Somewhere” when it’s 7:00 p.m. here. In fact, when we ring in the New Year, it will be midnight in: Asuncion (Paraguay), Belem (Lisbon), Brasilia (Brazil), Buenos Aires, Cayenne (French Guiana in South America), Cordoba (Argentina), Fortaleza (Brazil), Stanley (capital of the Falkland islands in the South Atlantic ocean), Sao Paulo (Brazil), Santiago (Chile), Salvador (Brazil), Rio De Janeiro (Brazil), Recife (Brazil), Qaanaaq (Greenland), and Paramaribo (Suriname).

So let’s join with these folks in ringing in the New Year! Come dressed to impress! Music! Snacks! Prizes for Best Dressed and Best Dancers. Music by “The Swingin’ Quintet”

DIY Crafts with Daiana

1st & 3rd Wednesdays @ 12:30-1:30 in the Activities Center

Starting the first and third Wednesdays in December, and every month following. Daiana will be bringing timely crafts to the residents. In December she has Christmas crafts lined up of course! Come join her!

Learn Spanish

Fridays @ 2:00 in the theater

Everyone welcome. This is a DVD presentation of a top professor teaching us Spanish.

Touched by an Angel

Sundays @ 11:00 am in the theater

Come join us for this wonderful series! This show will touch you, challenge you, and bless you. Come Join us!

Classic Senior Ladies

Fridays @ 9 a.m. in the Theater

Led by Louise B & Morgan M. This group gets together to talk about life. Members share their week. A topic of discussion is presented and everyone contributes their feelings and experiences pertaining to the topic. They celebrate birthdays and periodically go out to lunch together. It’s a “tight knit” group, and a kind of “sisterhood”. Louise is well-known to the Villas as an RN and a helper to seniors. Morgan is a young San Clemente gal that has loved visiting the group and has now become a regular. Looking for new members! Come check us out!

Water Aerobics!

Wednesdays at 3:00 (weather permitting)

Now being taught by Physical Therapist, Sandra Wong! Water Aerobics is a low-impact class designed to promote joint flexibility, range of motion, while building cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength. The buoyancy of the water reduces stress on the joints allowing greater ease of movement in a fun, supportive environment. The ability to swim is not required to participate. Sandra Wong, MPT

Fireside Chat with Chaplain Mark

First Wednesday of the Month @ 3:00pm in Library

For all residents this is a special time to just come share, learn, listen, fellowship with Chaplain Mark.

Join Us for Bingo!

Mondays 2:00, Wednesdays 2:00, Saturdays & Sundays 3:00

The residents of San Clemente Villas would like to invite adult family members, friends, community members and visitors to come play Bingo with them! $5.00 for 5 games! The more the merrier! Meet new friends! See you there? We hope so!

Monthly Resident Meeting

1st Thursday of the Month

These meetings are a time to learn "what's going on," ask questions, and share concerns. It's also a time to give praise where praise is due!

Don't Miss Them.

December 2019 Employee of the Month

Marina Gomez

Marina Gomez is an amazing woman, mother, friend, grandmother and employee at the Villas. She is a very patient, extraordinary human being. Those are some of the many reasons why she has been chosen for this month’s Employee of the month. Marina was born in Nayarit, Mexico. She is a mother of 5: 4 girls, and 2 boys. She is a grandmother of 10 grandchildren. In her spare time she likes to visit them and care for them. Her youngest grandchild is 18 months and oldest granddaughter is 14 years old. She enjoys taking her to Starbucks to have grandmother and granddaughter time. Marina is part of a Catholic Spanish Catechism Ministry called “Jovenes para Cristo.” She is involved in a prayer group where she enjoys prayer and bringing people to Christ. She is a woman full of faith and hope. She values family and is very proud of the accomplishments in their lives. Marina has a family full of scholars, scientists, artists, athletes etc. Marina has been devoted to her job as a housekeeper since March, 2011. She was first introduced to this place by bringing her grandchild to an Easter photoshoot. She was invited by our driver Alicia Aguilar, who had worked with her in her previous job. As soon as she walked in she noticed the warmth and love in the atmosphere. So Alicia told her to apply because she also loved it very much here. Marina mentioned that in a previous position she did not feel the same type of resident care and service that she sees here and she is very thankful for that. The top thing that she loves about the Villas are the activities provided here and how the residents engage especially to get up and dance even when they are in wheelchairs. “It’s a very beautiful thing to see.” Marina values serving others as she truly believes that everything she does, she does for the Lord. (Colossians 3:23). She says that she never likes to take days off because she loves what she does. “Whatever you do in your life you must do with grace and gratitude towards God.” She also believes that each person is placed to serve as a part of a community that is good for the soul and she believes she has found that place here in a senior community.

We Love the ACTIVITIES at the Villas

Here are some of our recent events & activities at San Clemente Villas by the Sea. Our Activities Director, Barbara Tancredi, does a wonderful job, Thank You Barbara!

Welcome November!

I am so thankful for my family, my brother and nieces, my sister in laws and my friends. I am grateful for my job, health and the amazing experiences I have had in my life. But most of all I am grateful for the incredible parents I had. Esmeralda Lopez

A Thanksgiving Poem
May your stuffing be tasty
May your turkey be plump
May your potatoes and gravy
Have not even one lump
May your yams be delicious
May your pies take the prize
But most of all…
May your Thanksgiving dinner
STAY OFF OF YOUR THIGHS!!!

Esmeralda Lopez, Director of Marketing & Dianna Mendoza, Marketing Assistant

Happy Thanksgiving San Clemente Villas!

From Jan’s Desk It’s Fall, the heat of summer, for the most part, has passed. It’s now time to plan our Thanksgiving feasts, those wonderful, traditional foods we have on Thanksgiving Day: Turkey with cranberry sauce, dressing, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans, sweet potatoes (yams), ham, apple salad, pumpkin and pecan pies. Generally, I can’t wait until Thanksgiving to have my favorites, so I will “jump the gun” and cook a turkey before the actual holiday. At San Clemente Villas, Salvador, our Director of Food Service Director extraordinaire, is planning a special Thanksgiving meal as well for the lunch hour. He and the Dining Room Staff do a terrific job of preparing those traditional dishes we like and his staff serves them with love! Please tell your family and friends to make their reservations early if they are planning on having their Thanksgiving meal here. I also want to remind residents Salvador has a “Food for Thought” meeting on the 3rdWednesday of every month at 1:00 p.m. in the library. Those meetings give you, as a resident, one on one time to express your wishes to Salvador. If you would like to plan a tour of his kitchens, please let him know! Let’s all think of something we are thankful for this year. For me, it is the fact I have a very large extended family and we all care about each other! We are fortunate to live in the U.S.A., in Southern California, and in particular to live or work at San Clemente Villas by the Sea! I’d also like to encourage everyone to remember the military, past and present, and their families on Veteran’s Day (November 11th) and always. We will be having a program in the Lobby on Veteran’s Day. Check the calendar for more information.

Blessings to All!
Jan McAlister, Executive Director

November is here and the activites are blustering! Check out our November Newsletter to see what is happening this month!

See’s Candy Sale

Tuesday, November 5th in the Lobby

Stock up on boxes or bags of See’s for Thanksgiving, Christmas presents or for yourself! Cost is the same or less than if you went to the See’s store. Your purchase benefits CHOC [Children’s Hospital of Orange County]! Bring cash, check or credit card

Learn Spanish

Fridays @ 2:00 in the theater

Everyone welcome. This is a DVD presentation of a top professor teaching us Spanish.

Touched by an Angel

Sundays @ 11:00 am in the theater

Come join us for this wonderful series! This show will touch you, challenge you, and bless you. Come Join us!

Veteran's Day

November, 11th @ 1:30 pm in the Lobby

Join us and the Scouts as we remember the military, past & present, and their families.

Water Aerobics!

Wednesdays at 3:00 (weather permitting)

Now being taught by Physical Therapist, Sandra Wong! Water Aerobics is a low-impact class designed to promote joint flexibility, range of motion, while building cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength. The buoyancy of the water reduces stress on the joints allowing greater ease of movement in a fun, supportive environment. The ability to swim is not required to participate. Sandra Wong, MPT

Fireside Chat with Chaplain Mark

First Wednesday of the Month @ 3:00pm in Library

For all residents this is a special time to just come share, learn, listen, fellowship with Chaplain Mark.

Join Us for Bingo!

Mondays 2:00, Wednesdays 2:00, Saturdays & Sundays 3:00

The residents of San Clemente Villas would like to invite adult family members, friends, community members and visitors to come play Bingo with them! $5.00 for 5 games! The more the merrier! Meet new friends! See you there? We hope so!

Monthly Resident Meeting

1st Thursday of the Month

These meetings are a time to learn "what's going on," ask questions, and share concerns. It's also a time to give praise where praise is due!

Don't Miss Them.

November 2019 Employee of the Month

Estela Mena

Estela Mena is a caregiver at San Clemente Villas. She is a very hardworking employee with a very positive attitude. She has been working here for 9 years since August 2010. Estela says that she loves working here at the San Clemente Villas. She believes that “to work here you have to be a caring person and be patient and understanding to be able to provide great service to the residents.” Estela highly values family time. She also has many family members that work here at the Villas in the kitchen staff and caregiving. She comes from a big family, where everyone is very caring and love to spend time together. She is married with three kids. She has 2 daughters and one son. They have a home in Ladera Ranch. She loves to go to the movies and go out dancing when she gets the chance. We really enjoy having Estela as part of the team. Her patience, dedication, and hard work is exemplary overall and especially in a job like San Clemente Villas.

We Love the ACTIVITIES at the Villas

Here are some of our recent events & activities at San Clemente Villas by the Sea. Our Activities Director, Barbara Tancredi, does a wonderful job, Thank You Barbara!

Welcome October!

Falling leaves are summer waving goodbye. So that means that this month calls for colder weather, hot cocoa, warm blankets, cozy sweaters and everyone preparing for a spooky Halloween. It’s always fun to be a part of Halloween. Whether it’s preparing your home with all the scary decorations, lights, chocolates and candies or being the parent/grandparent taking the kids out to trick-or-treat, seeing their gleaming faces when receiving treats and how astounded they are by all the décor, lights, and others costumes. Here at San Clemente Villas, we hope everyone has a safe and HAPPY HALLOWEEN. We also wish San Clemente Villas a Happy 17th Anniversary!

OCTOBER

THE MONTH OF OCTOBER,
THE AIR TURNS COLD.
THE LEAVES ARE ALL CHANGING,
TO RED AND TO GOLD.
THE MONTH OF OCTOBER,
AND PUMKINS I’VE SEEN.
THEY’RE OUT TRICK OR TREATING,
IT’S NOW HALLOWEEN
[to the tune of “On Top of Old Smokey”]

Esmeralda Lopez, Director of Marketing & Dianna Mendoza, Marketing Assistant

Happy Anniversary San Clemente Villas!

I would like to congratulate Aileen and the rest of the Brazeau family on what an accomplishment San Clemente Villas by the Sea is after 17 years! I remember “the vision” Aileen and Paul Brazeau had for building their own Assisted Living Senior Community because I met Aileen in 1999 when she stopped in for a tour at another large community where I was working. In her usual enthusiastic way she said, “I’d like to take a tour of your building because my husband and I are thinking about building an assisted living community ourselves.” Then, in the year 2000, I ended up working for them on Saturdays at the “corner trailer,” helping to rent apartments that weren’t even built yet. It was exciting seeing the Community being built from the ground up and meeting all the anxious “soon to be” residents and their families. Little did I know, it was a community I would be working at eventually full time and really loving my job and what I do. There is no assisted living community like “The Villas!” Here’s to another 17 successful years! Let’s celebrate this month!

Jan McAlister, Executive Director

Happy October from San Clemente Villas! There are all kinds of happenings this month! Be sure to check out the calendar in our October Newsletter!

Jeff Harnar

October 2rd @ 1:00 in the Lobby

The fabulous Jeff Harnar is back to entertain us! 

Octoberfest Party!

Thursday, October 3rd @ 3:00 p.m. in the lobby

Wear your Lederhosen and Dirndls or just come as you are! Oompah Band Hors d’ oeuvres!

Robin Dier Seminar

October 5rd @ 10:30am in the Lobby

If you were really sick and had trouble communicating, would you like others to know what is important to you and offer suggestions on how they can be helpful? Come join Robin Dier and fellow residents for a lively discussion as we come up with ideas and then choose those statements that express our own wishes, called “Quality of Life” Statements. These statements will serve as an attachment to our health care directive. We will also discuss the purpose of estate planning documents and the importance of choosing a financial advocate who will always have our best interest in mind. About Robin: Robin is a California Licensed Professional Fiduciary, a retired CPA, and a former Long Term Ombudsman for the San Clemente Villas who investigated cases of financial abuse.

Join the Villas’ Chorale!

Monday, Ocober 7th @ 3:15pm in the Activities Center on Lower Level

We’re starting rehearsals We will be rehearsing for our Christmas performance Which of course will be in December. Sopranos, Altos, Tenors and Basses needed Just show up for rehearsal! See you then!

Water Aerobics!

Wednesdays at 3:00 (weather permitting) It’s baaaack!

Now being taught by Physical Therapist, Sandra Wong! Water Aerobics is a low-impact class designed to promote joint flexibility, range of motion, while building cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength. The buoyancy of the water reduces stress on the joints allowing greater ease of movement in a fun, supportive environment. The ability to swim is not required to participate. Sandra Wong, MPT

Fireside Chat with Chaplain Mark

First Wednesday of the Month @ 3:00pm in Library

For all residents this is a special time to just come share, learn, listen, fellowship with Chaplain Mark.

Join Us for Bingo!

Mondays 2:00, Wednesdays 2:00, Saturdays & Sundays 3:00

The residents of San Clemente Villas would like to invite adult family members, friends, community members and visitors to come play Bingo with them! $5.00 for 5 games! The more the merrier! Meet new friends! See you there? We hope so!

Monthly Resident Meeting

1st Thursday of the Month

These meetings are a time to learn "what's going on," ask questions, and share concerns. It's also a time to give praise where praise is due!

Don't Miss Them.

October 2019 Employee of the Month

Aracely Sanchez Perez

Aracely Sanchez Perez is a very hardworking and kind employee that we have the privilege of having on staff. Aracely loves spending time with her kids, taking them to the park, school, and fun adventures. She is a mother of 6 children, 5 girls and one boy. She adores talking about her family and how important it is to always give them love, respect and time. Aracely’s dream in life is to be able to see the three youngest girls keep studying and go to a nice university.

She very much loves working here at the Villas as a house keeper and says it is a blessing to work in a place for the seniors. Aracely has been working here for 3 years. She treats the residents with a lot of love and respect as if they were her actual family. She always walks around with a smile and has a very positive attitude. What she likes the most about her work is that she likes to work for the elderly because she learns a lot from them and she wants to give them the care and attention they deserve. We are very happy to have Aracely on staff, she is a wonderful employee and an amazing human being.

We Love the ACTIVITIES at the Villas

Here are some of our recent events & activities at San Clemente Villas by the Sea. Our Activities Director, Barbara Tancredi, does a wonderful job, Thank You Barbara!

Fall is Coming!

For most of us, September makes us think of back-to-school preparations and the upcoming Fall holidays. We also think of New York as it will be 18 years since the 9/11 tragedy. It’s true what they say.You don’t remember what you did one week ago but you will never forget what you were doing that morning of 9/11. I was getting ready for school and my grandma usually made my breakfast. Well, not that morning. She was sitting in front of the TV crying and I remember asking her what was going on. That day at school no one did any work, all classes had the TV on watching the news. It was a horrible day. Please take time this month to honor our emergency personnel, i.e. fireman, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, police, hospital staff, armed forces, the Red Cross as well as the many emergency non-profit organizations. San ClementeVillas would like to thank our First Responders for being there for all of us!

Esmeralda Lopez, Director of Marketing & Dianna Mendoza, Marketing Assistant

Dear Residents, Families and Staff,

September is the month I think of students of all ages returning to school and the possibility they may meet someone or already have a friend who will become a lifetime one! When I was in the 4th grade, I met a girl who became my best friend and has been near and dear to me for 50+ years! She knows who she is, so I won’t mention her name in my article, but I wanted to pay special tribute to her since this is her birthday month as well! She is a person that has seen me through thick and thin, only a phone call or text away if I need to talk. We, as best friends, have had our ups and downs over the years, but truly, aside from family, she is someone I can trust completely with those confidentialities I confess to her. I have probably laughed the loudest and hardest with this person…. her sense of humor is beyond funny! She is a gracious host when you visit her at home and has incorporated me into her very large family. I am simply known as, “Aunt Jan”. I can only advise the younger generation to cherish your friends you meet along the way in school….go to the family weddings, the funerals, the birthday parties! Stay in touch however you can. You will be blessed and so will they!

Jan McAlister, Executive Director

It's September & we are excited for fall activities here at San Clemente Villas! Check out our September Newsletter to see what is happening this month!

Join the Villas’ Chorale!

Monday, Ocober 7th @ 3:15pm in the Activities Center on Lower Level

We’re starting rehearsals We will be rehearsing for our Christmas performance Which of course will be in December. Sopranos, Altos, Tenors and Basses needed Just show up for rehearsal! See you then!

Learn to Play Mah Jongg

September 3rd & 15th @ 1:00 in the lower level card area

Your instructor will be Eleanor Izac. Every first & third Tuesday she’ll be there to teach all who want to learn how to play. So come one, come all! This is a great opportunity to learn to play the game! But we also need experienced players to help and of course, to have fun! See you there!!

Play Scrabble with Jen & Monica!

2nd & 4th Mondays @ 9:00 a.m.in the Kahuna!

These wonderful gals are volunteering to play Scrabble with you. YOU DON’T HAVE TO KNOW HOW TO PLAY – they’ll teach you! Please come, and if you DO know how to play, come help out – and have fun, of course!

The Hut

Open 1:30-3:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays

The Villas’ has its own little store on the lower level across from the activities center. It will be open for its regular hours from 1:30-3:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Resident Mr. Hobart is in charge, and he says that if you have an emergency and really need something, see him. He’s always glad to open up shop for you!

Fireside Chat with Chaplain Mark

First Wednesday of the Month @ 3:00pm in Library

For all residents this is a special time to just come share, learn, listen, fellowship with Chaplain Mark.

Join Us for Bingo!

Mondays 2:00, Wednesdays 2:00, Saturdays & Sundays 3:00

The residents of San Clemente Villas would like to invite adult family members, friends, community members and visitors to come play Bingo with them! $5.00 for 5 games! The more the merrier! Meet new friends! See you there? We hope so!

Monthly Resident Meeting

1st Thursday of the Month

These meetings are a time to learn "what's going on," ask questions, and share concerns. It's also a time to give praise where praise is due!

Don't Miss Them.

September 2019 Employee of the Month

Rosario Hernandez

Rosario was born in Leon Guanajuato, Mexico. She came from a big family of 16 siblings. Rosario is number 6 on the younger end. She came to the U.S. about 35 years ago with her family. Her dad was born in the U.S. and would go every year to work here, then in December he would go back to Mexico and stay with the family for a couple of months. Eventually her dad got the necessary papers to bring the family to the U.S. Once they all came, the family members each got jobs. Rosario and a sister first worked at San Clemente Ranch, packing tomatoes, cucumbers, etc. She worked for about 6 months there, but then got laid off because they didn’t have any more to harvest. Then she started another job as a seamstress for many years. Rosario has three children, sons Uriel and Osvaldo and daughter Crystal. Rosario loves working at the Villas because the residents are really nice. She feels that they are so grateful for the care she does for them, and for her that means a lot. She’s been at the Villas more than 12 years. She’s really happy working with the residents and says, “We have really nice residents, we really do.” Rosario, you’ve been Employee of the Month in the past, and are most deserving of it again! Thank you for your service and your loyalty to the Villas and to the residents.

We Love the ACTIVITIES at the Villas

Here are some of our recent events & activities at San Clemente Villas by the Sea. Our Activities Director, Barbara Tancredi, does a wonderful job, Thank You Barbara!

August is here & activities are sizzling at San Clemente Villas! Check out our August Newsletter to see what is happening this month!

Alzheimer's OC Support Group

Monday, August 5th @ 3:00 pm in the Villas' Library

Note that this group is for the family members and caregivers of folks with memory issues. If you know a family member or caregiver who is concerned about or caring for someone with dementia, Alzheimer’s or other memory issues, please let them know about this group. ALL RESIDENTS ARE INVITED as are your family members or friends who are interested.

Annual Villas Luau

Wednesday, August 7th @ 1:00pm in the Lobby

All residents, employees, family and friends invited! Wear your grass skirt, coconut top and lei if you’ve got them! Our thanks to “The Hula Connection”

Learn to Play Mah Jongg

August 6th & 20th @ 1:00 in the lower level card area

Your instructor will be Eleanor Izac. Every first & third Tuesday she’ll be there to teach all who want to learn how to play. So come one, come all! This is a great opportunity to learn to play the game! But we also need experienced players to help and of course, to have fun! See you there!!

Play Scrabble with Jen & Monica!

2nd & 4th Mondays @ 9:00 a.m.in the Kahuna!

These wonderful gals are volunteering to play Scrabble with you. YOU DON’T HAVE TO KNOW HOW TO PLAY – they’ll teach you! Please come, and if you DO know how to play, come help out – and have fun, of course!

The Hut

Open 1:30-3:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays

The Villas’ has its own little store on the lower level across from the activities center. It will be open for its regular hours from 1:30-3:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Resident Mr. Hobart is in charge, and he says that if you have an emergency and really need something, see him. He’s always glad to open up shop for you!

Fireside Chat with Chaplain Mark

First Wednesday of the Month @ 3:00pm in Library

For all residents this is a special time to just come share, learn, listen, fellowship with Chaplain Mark.

Join Us for Bingo!

Mondays 2:00, Wednesdays 2:00, Saturdays & Sundays 3:00

The residents of San Clemente Villas would like to invite adult family members, friends, community members and visitors to come play Bingo with them! $5.00 for 5 games! The more the merrier! Meet new friends! See you there? We hope so!

Monthly Resident Meeting

1st Thursday of the Month

These meetings are a time to learn "what's going on," ask questions, and share concerns. It's also a time to give praise where praise is due!

Don't Miss Them.

August 2019 Employee of the Month

Toni Sale

Toni is again our employee of the month. She’s a treasured worker for the Villas. She came to the Villas in October of 2009. Toni works many hours because she loves to make the lives of seniors better. It’s her passion in life. She’s happy working with them. When they have a problem, she says, and she can help them, it’s so rewarding. Toni helps provide for a nephew who is in school, and a brother with impaired vision. Her hobby would be Scrabble is she had more time to play! Toni, thanks for your positive attitude, your willingness to help wherever needed and your loyalty to the Villas! We appreciate you so much. And congratulations on once again being Employee of the Month.

We Love the ACTIVITIES at the Villas

Here are some of our recent events & activities at San Clemente Villas by the Sea. Our Activities Director, Barbara Tancredi, does a wonderful job, Thank You Barbara!

Paul Brazeau

I am proud to call myself one of the daughters of Paul Brazeau. He was the strongest man I knew and brought strength to our family and people around him! It is very painful to lose a loved one. My father was always there for me and so many others. I was fortunate to be able to spend time with him when he needed me the most. These precious memories will last a life time!

A father to me is a man that can be dedicated to a lifelong responsibility, whose guidance, strength and love grows throughout our life. He gives you room to grow and make mistakes but somehow keeps you from stumbling along the way. The older I get the wiser my father seemed to be to me!

Leslie

Time to Refer a Friend or Relative!

We want residents, family members and friends of the community to know that now is the time to refer your friends and family to move into our community!

But why the Villas? Well, we asked a few of our residents what they love about living here, and here’s what they said.

Wayne and Sandy S. have been living at the Villas now for three years. They enjoy the social hour three days a week. They love both listening and dancing to the music. They also love how friendly everyone is.

Dot W. has been living here for two years and says she enjoys everything, but especially going on our outings.

Elba J. has been here for two years and she, too, loves how friendly everyone is, the residents, the family members and the employees. And she made it very clear how much she loves to dance! There are certainly lots and lots of opportunities to do that at the Villas! Elba’s great.

When Dianna or Esmeralda in marketing are touring a prospective resident, Elba is always so friendly, stopping to tell them how much she loves living here.

And for our Residents we’d like to say that with many new residents comes a need for more resident ambassadors. If you’ve lived here 6 months or more and want to be a buddy to a new resident, showing them the building, and the “ropes”, come see Dianna or Esmeralda in the Marketing Office. We’ve got a special treat for you for helping out!

Contact Esmaralda Today to Refer a Friend!

"How to Keep Being Mentally & Physically Fit" on 2-22-19 to be held in the Villas Activities Center. Brad Budde Shares His Proven System Helping Families Preserve Mental & Physical Fitness Today and In the Best Years Ahead. NFL Veteran USC Hall of Famer and Physical Therapist Brad Budde’s background as a professional athlete has provided him with the unique opportunity to develop leadership abilities and identify the vital link between the mind and body in achieving one’s highest potential. He specializes in geriatric therapy, especially in Senior Wellness Programs. For the last 17 years, Brad has rehabilitated senior citizens as President of Budde Physical Therapy, Inc."

Resident of San Clemente Villas by the Sea

Don Lusk in this undated image. Photo: Courtesy of Slip Lusk via The Hollywood Reporter 

 If you’ve ever seen one of Disney’s classic films or Hanna-Barbera shows or some of the Charlie Brown editions, there’s a good chance Don Lusk worked on one of them. Lusk’s career as an animator includes a staggeringly impressive list, such as Bambi (1942), Fantasia (1940), and Alice in Wonderland (1950).

 But it was San Clemente where he ended up spending his final years. Lusk died on Dec. 30 at the San Clemente Villas by the Sea at age 105, according to close friends and entertainment media outlets.  According to his close friend, Juliette Paskowitz—the widow of famed physician and surfer Dorian “Doc” Paskowitz—she befriended Lusk during his final years, as they both resided at the San Clemente Villas.

“He’d been here five years, and I’ve known him for three, and one of my young sons who is an artist and gave him a beautiful painting,” Paskowitz said. “We were so close. I knew all about his life, wife, children, and he confided in me. Like Josh (her son) says, he was such a unique person.”

Paskowitz said due to random and assigned seating, she was introduced to Lusk for the first time a few years ago. While she said she didn’t think she belonged at the residence that is meant for retired people, she quickly found companionship with the famed cartoonist.

 “I came downstairs for dinner and came to see my son, Izzy, and he said, ‘Pretend like it’s the first day of school,’ and he introduced me and, you know, I never realized that behind all those gray hairs are beautiful stories, and I’ve met so many good friends here, including Don. He was just amazing and so smart and so funny.”

Don Lusk, left, with Juliette Paskowitz in this recent photo taken at San Clemente Villas by the Sea. Photo: Courtesy of Juliette Paskowitz 

 Paskowitz said then-post-centenarian Lusk would tell her all kinds of stories, not necessarily related to his work with Disney, Hanna-Barbera and other entertainment titans. She said although he would ask for seconds when they had wine with dinner, he would frequently share.

 “After the other people would leave, he was so slow to finish, so I always sat by him, and we would go through the tales of his life together,” Paskowitz said, adding that their friendship was like two spirits passing each other between this world and the next.

Details of Lusk’s memorial were not available.

San Clemente Villas by the Sea
January 2, 2019