Pathways to Learning at Home

A Visit to the Greenhouse

If you are weary of a drab January landscape, you will enjoy this tour through the Medford Leas Haddon Greenhouse with Debbie Lux, Medford Leas Horticulturalist.

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Napa Wines

Enjoy this program as Dr. James D’Amico, Medford Leas Medical Director, and favorite Medford Leas Sommelier discusses the wines of Napa Valley.

In the Napa Valley of California, they say “Cab is King.”  And yes, Cabernet Sauvignon is the most widely planted grape with over 50% of the vineyards planted to this grape.  However, it is only one of 27 grape varieties that are planted throughout the valley.  Cabernet Sauvignon is followed by Chardonnay, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Zinfandel, in that order.

You are invited to grab a bottle of your favorite Napa Valley wine-or not –and enjoy this wine class with Dr. D’Amico.

CALIFORNIA WINES

Thank you for joining us for this program. This brief history of California wine helps to set the stage for the program. Grab a bottle of anything “Napa”, and see you soon!
California produces 90% of the wine produced in the United States (Napa however only produces 4% of California wine).
Although the first recorded planting of a vineyard was back in the late 1600s, in 1779 Franciscan missionaries under the direction of father Junipero Serra planted California’s first vineyard in San Diego. Father Serra founded eight other California missions and has been dubbed the “Father of California Wine”. The variety planted which originated in Spain, became known as the mission grape (criolla) and dominated the California wine production well into the late 1800s.
California’s first documented European vines were planted in Los Angeles in 1833 by Jean-Louis Vignes, which became part of the first winery in California.
The California gold rush brought an influx of people to Northern California– many of them arrived in San Francisco. This resulted in a significant increase in demand for wine and increased wine production in that area. In the 1850s, Augustin Haraszthy, a Hungarian merchant, made several trips to import cuttings from over 100 of the greatest European vineyards and brought them to California. He is known as the founder of the California wine industry as almost single-handedly these so-called “suitcase clones” really signaled the rebirth of the California wine industry. He founded Buena Vista winery in Sonoma, which is still around today.
In Napa, John Patchett planted the first vineyard in 1854 and established a winery in 1858. In 1861 Patchett and Charles Krug, who previously worked for Haraszthy, founded his namesake winery in St. Helena. Krug became an important leader for winemaking in the Napa Valley. He also served as a mentor for Karl Wente and Jacob Beringer, both of whom became important winemakers themselves. In 1879 captain, Gustave Niebaum established Inglenook winery in Rutherford California, which was the first Bordeaux style winery in the USA. His wines won gold medals at the world’s fair in Paris in 1889.
In 1863 species of Native American grapes were taken to a botanical garden in England. These cuttings carried a species of root louse called phylloxera, which attacks and feeds on the vine roots and leaves. Phylloxera is indigenous to North America and our native vines had developed resistance. European vines however did not. By 1865, phylloxera had spread to vines in Provence. Over the next 20 years, it decimated nearly every vineyard in Europe. Total French wine production dropped about 75% between 1875 -1889. The French offered a 300,000 francs reward and evaluated over 1000 remedies including burying a live toad underneath vines, sulfides, flooding, even urinating on the vines. Finally, Thomas Munson, a horticulturist (from Texas of all places), suggested grafting the European Vitis vinifera vines on to American Vitis riparia rootstocks. Then began the long laborious process of grafting every single vine in Europe onto the roots of American vines. This saved the European wine industry from extinction. Interestingly, there are areas around the world that do not have phylloxera. Phylloxera cannot live in sandy soil. There are areas of Chile and actually in Washington State, Columbia Valley in particular which will still sell wines that say vinifera rootstock on the bottle. Meaning the European Vitis vinifera vines also have Vitis vinifera roots. Turns out that does not really mean too much. The French were afraid that American roots would effect the taste of their wine but that never turned out to be the case either.
The destruction of the American wine industry would not come from phylloxera but from prohibition. Other than individual homeowners being allowed to make 200 gallons of wine per year, the only other wine allowed to be produced was sacramental wine. Beaulieu vineyard (BV), got this contract which helped keep them alive. They are still around to this day. Actually, in Rutherford, the district is just south of St. Helena.
Therefore, people all over the country were trying to make wine in their basement and therefore grape growers in California switched to varieties that would ship well to the rest of the country. Everyone replanted their fine wine varieties with low-quality grapes. This actually persisted until the 1970s. By the time prohibition was repealed in 1933 California wine production dropped 94% from 1919 levels. While there were more than 2500 commercial wineries in the United States prior to 1920 less than 100 survived by the end of Prohibition. By 1960, that number only rose to 271. California had 713 wineries before prohibition; it took until 1986 before that many were operating again. University of California at Davis and Fresno State University assisted a new breed of wine growers who arrived in California in the 1960s and were committed to producing higher quality wines.
Andre Tchelistcheff is credited with ushering in the modern era of winemaking in California. BV founder and owner Georges de Latour hired him in 1938. He introduced new techniques such as aging wine in French oak barrels, cold fermentation, frost prevention and malolactic fermentation. One of his students was Miljenko “Mike” Grgich, a winemaker from Croatia who immigrated to north America in the 1950s.Meanwhile in Napa, some person named Robert Mondavi who was working at Charles Krug estate opened his own winery in Oakville in 1965. Although some quality wines were produced, word was not getting out until a journalist, Frank Schoonmaker, suggested to introduce the German idea of labeling wines based on the varietal rather than their region as was done in the rest of Europe. Mondavi was one of the first to label the majority of his wines by varietal (grape name).
On May 24, 1976, a blind tasting was held in Paris with a panel made up exclusively of French wine experts. After comparing six California Chardonnays with four French White burgundies, three of the top four were from California including the winner from Château Montelena (whose wine maker was Mike Grgich). When the Cabernets were evaluated Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars was ranked number one. This competition, now known as the judgment of Paris, put Napa on the map and also became the subject of a book and subsequent movie called “Bottle Shock”. Now some 45 years later here we are discussing Napa wines at Medford Leas….

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Birds in Winter (Parts 4 and 5)

Raptors & Woodpeckers (Part 4)

Adapting to a Changing World (Part 5)

Continuing our sharing of programs from our friends at the Burlington County Parks System, we wanted to share some seasonal topics for you to experience.

Please enjoy these programs dedicated to the natural environment right here in Burlington County.

For additional information visit :  www.co.burlington.nj.us/919/County-Parks

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Spiritual Opportunity of De-Cluttering

We all struggle to some degree with “clutter” in our lives—both physical and emotional.  The process of “de-cluttering” is intended to lighten one’s burden that these items can sometimes bring.

Abigail Burford formed her business, “Lighten Up” as a way to help others through life’s inevitable transitions.  Abby provides professional assistance by working with clients who have a desire to lighten their burden.  The goal of this clearing out process is to leave individuals with a functional and healthy live space.  The “light” symbolizes a sense of inspiration, guidance, and humor to what can be a challenging scenario.

Her mindful exercises allow individuals to evaluate and reflect on the objects and treasures people tend to hold onto.

Taking the first step to lightening up is never easy, but with today’s program, you will get some ideas as to how to move forward.

Abigail is a member of the Religious Society of Friends, and holds the tenets of simplicity ,non-violence and integrity in her life.

Learn from Abigail Burford, how to de-clutter your life.

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Autumn Leaves & Birds in Winter Program Series

Again this month, we are most appreciative of our friends at the Burlington County Parks System for allowing us to share their programs with you.  Please take a look at these programs dedicated to the natural environment here in Burlington County.

For additional information visit :  www.co.burlington.nj.us/919/County-Parks

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Arch Street Meetinghouse

This program today is a great way for us to connect with  our Quaker roots. Sean Connolly is the Executive Director of the Arch Street Meeting house Preservation Trust. Arch Street Meeting House at Fourth and Arch Streets in Old City is one of the largest Quaker Meetinghouses in the world. It hosts over 30,000 visits from school students and tourists each year and has been central to Quakerism and key events in American history for over 200 years.

The Arch Street Meetinghouse was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1971, and declared a National Historic Landmark in 2011. Join Sean as he discusses the buildings fascinating history and the legacy of Quakers throughout Philadelphia’s history.

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Balance for Older Adults

Balance for Older Adults is a program that truly exemplifies resident engagement. This program will give you some tips to improve your balance and thus help to prevent falls. As you would before beginning any exercise program, we suggest that you connect with your primary care provider to secure clearance for undertaking any new exercise program.  

Each year, millions of older adults—those 65 years and older—fall.  Statistics from the government show that more than one out of four older adults fall each year, but the challenge is that less than half report this to their health care provider.  While many falls do not cause injuries, one out of five falls does cause a serious injury such as a broken bone or a head injury.  The result of these injuries can make it difficult for one to go about their normal activities.  Many people who fall can become afraid of falling.  This fear may cause a person to cut down their normal activities, and when a person is less active, they can become weaker and actually increase their chance of falling.  

So, what is one to do to manage this challenge of falling?  Well improving your balance is a great step forward.   This class is geared to help you build your strength, which will then help you to improve your balance.  Balance Training has moved from a trend, to a staple in fitness programs.  A core tool in reducing the risk of falls, balance training combined with strength and flexibility activities can help all adults to maintain stability during daily activities.

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Introduction to the Wines of Bordeaux

Join in with Dr. D’Amico, Medford Leas Medical Director, as he hosts this program on the topic of the wines of Bordeaux. Not only is he a highly acclaimed and appreciated physician, he is also a noted connoisseur of wines.

Bordeaux produces arguably the most famous and highly coveted wine blend in the world. Like many regions with a long history, there is a lot to learn. So, buckle up for a quick zip through the grapes, appellations, climate, and history that make Bordeaux wines so sought after. It is also the home of many affordable wines, so if you would like to taste along with the program, you could consider purchasing the following wines:

• Chateau Du Retout, 2016, Haut-Medoc (red Cabernet blend)

• Chateau Teyssier, 2018, Bordeaux (red Merlot blend)

• Augey, 2018, Bordeaux (white Sauvignon Blanc blend

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Container Gardening

Enjoy this program hosted by Debbie Lux, Medford Leas Horticulturalist, as she shares tips on how to plant a container garden that you will enjoy through the summer.  Learn all about the theory of the filler, spiller and thriller that will make your container garden a hit for the season!

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The Music of Glenn Miller

Take a journey back to the forties with the music of Glenn Miller.

Miller  was an American big-band trombonist, arranger, composer, and bandleader in the swing era. He was the best-selling recording artist from 1939 to 1942, leading one of the best-known big bands. Miller’s recordings include “In the Mood”, “Moonlight Serenade”, “Pennsylvania 6-5000”, “Chattanooga Choo Choo”, ” A String of Pearls”, “At Last”, Kalamazoo”, “American Patrol”, “Tuxedo Junction”, “Elmer’s Tune”, “Little Brown Jug” and “Anvil Chorus”. In just four years Glenn Miller scored 16 number-one records and 69 top ten hits—more than Elvis Presley and the Beatles did in their careers.

Enjoy as Danielle Boyd, Medford Leas Music Therapist shares some favorites.

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Barton Arboretum and Nature Preserve-Celebrating Forty Years

Often around Medford Leas you may hear the expression—April is for Arboretum!  It is a wonderful time of the year to celebrate the Arboretum and all that it offers. This program will highlight a bit of the history of the origin of the Arboretum as well as share various components and relationships that have developed over the years.

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Stories of Slavery in New Jersey

Thanks to our Leas Forum Committee for engaging Rick Geffken on the topic Stories of Slavery in New Jersey. In this program, Geffken shares his research to explain the reasons for the little known fact that New Jersey was in 1866, the last northern state to abolish slavery,

Geffken has written numerous articles on various aspects of New Jersey history for local newspapers, magazines and newsletters. An energetic and popular speaker, he has spoken at the New Jersey History & Historic Preservation symposia, Rutgers and Monmouth Universities and dozens of libraries and historical societies throughout the Garden State.

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Artifacts-  Forgotten Stories of the Delaware Valley

Artifacts-a program developed by the Leas Forum Committee is an eye-opening collection of Delaware Valley history, lovingly extracted from the region’s rich heritage of items that have not always gotten proper attention or, in some cases, have been ignored completely.  

Having presented a number of times, Hal Taylor is a favorite Leas Forum speaker. He has been a graphic artist for over 30 years — researching, writing, and creating artwork for his books, including Before Penn, an early history of the Delaware Valley.  Incorporating a love of history, this project reveals interesting facts related to this area. 

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Music and Cognitive Fitness Exercises

Join in this program to experience the musical talents of Danielle Boyd, Medford Leas Music Therapist as she shares on the topic of how music can play a role in cognitive fitness exercises for the brain.

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How to Maximize Your Hearing and Listening

Join in to learn about new innovations and techniques!

Almost 40 million Americans have hearing loss.   For most, recognizing and addressing it can be hard–but you are certainly not alone. Changes in hearing can negatively impact our participation in life and are associated with other healthcare issues including social isolation.  This session will focus on how modern hearing solutions can improve not only your hearing but your quality of life.  Did you know that we hear with our brains?  Or that changes in hearing can make you tired at the end of the day?  You will learn about that and more in this informative session. Information is power. This program will help to equip you on your journey to better hearing.

Presenter:

Maegan Mapes, Au.D., brings to the program 22 years of clinical experience in many different settings such as hospitals, ENT practices, and schools.  She has also been an adjunct professor at Richard Stockton University for the last 4 years.  Dr. Mapes is currently employed by the hearing aid company Oticon as an education and training specialist, where she educates audiologists and hearing instrument specialists about the latest hearing aid technology.

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Virtual Geology Tour of Main Street – Mt. Holly, NJ

Join in to experience a virtual guided geology tour of the historic buildings found along Main Street in Mount Holly, New Jersey.  Presented by Pierre Lacombe, a retired USGS geologist. Pierre will discuss the local rock used to construct the Historic Prison Museum and other early buildings in Mount Holly, as well as the bricks and other local building materials. Learn why there is a Mount in Mount Holly and many other interesting geologic facts pertaining to this area.

Thanks to our friends at the Burlington County Parks System for collaborating with us to share this program.  For additional programs, visit: https://www.co.burlington.nj.us/1885/Virtual-Programs

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MECHA Chocolates—Give in to that Craving and Enjoy

Chocolate is one of the most popular sweets of all time.  Some people crave it, others hoard it and Aztec kings were said to have been the first to eat it.  Join in this program to explore the basics of chocolate and learn of some of the benefits associated with this delectable treat.

Remember—moderation is key as you enjoy chocolate, but why not learn about this treat so you can appreciate it even that much more.

In this video, we visit Melissa Crandley, Owner/Chocolatier, of MECHA, to learn the ins and outs of chocolate.  Melissa has taken what was a passion for chocolate and developed it into a business with a store front in Haddonfield, NJ.  MECHA marries her background in culinary arts along with her interest in chocolate to bring together a variety of chocolates—some are sweet and salty, and others offer a savory note.  No matter which you sample, you are sure to enjoy the finest ingredients which are used to create natural and individually crafted chocolates.

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The Benefits of Walking

This program features Dr. Jeff Ranalli, a member of our Medford Leas Health and Wellness Team—as he is out and about on our Medford Campus on our Woodlands Trails.

Dr. Jeff will share information for all of us to enjoy, with the goal of encouraging viewers to begin a walking program of their own.

We all know the importance of exercise, but in this program, you will learn the specific benefits of walking and how you can begin your own program.

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Lumberton Campus Meadow Walk

Enjoy this walk to experience the Meadow on the Medford Leas at Lumberton Campus. Meadows provide habitat for butterflies, insects, birds, and small mammals and delightful vistas for all.

Without annual mowing, our meadows, would give way to pioneer trees — cedar, sweetgum, sassafras, winged sumac — and in time, become forested once again.  The Fall is an especially good time to enjoy the colors of the season.  You are invited to view this walk and be inspired by the seasonal beauty of the Barton Arboretum and Nature Preserve.

The Lumberton Campus is an extension of the Barton Arboretum and Nature Preserve.   In the summer of 2014, a project was begun to renovate the Lumberton Meadow, which had been taken over by invasive plants.  That summer, the existing vegetation was killed and removed. The entire meadow was then seeded and live plants and plugs were planted in selected areas. The plan included native grasses and wildflowers to provide a wonderful and diverse landscape for both residents and wildlife.

We are certain you will enjoy this walk with our Lumberton Campus resident Miriam Swartz.  Miriam works with a number of residents as they conduct socially distanced walks for others to enjoy as they learn more about the benefits of the Meadow.

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Electoral College-  Everything You Always Wanted To Know

We decide our Presidential elections not by popular vote, but by the Electoral College. The Electoral College is a process, not a place.  The Electoral College consists of 538 electors. A majority of 270 electoral votes is required to elect the President. Your state’s entitled allotment of electors equals the number of members in its Congressional delegation: one for each member in the House of Representatives plus two for your Senators.

Who are these electors and what if they don’t vote for who they are supposed to? Can’t we just abandon this “archaic system” and move to a popular vote?   This timely talk will provide you with just about everything you want to know about our Electoral College System.

Presenter:

Dr. Kelly Jackson is a long-term faculty member at Camden County College and has chaired their faculty governance body for 20 years.  Jackson, a graduate of Franklin and Marshall College went on to earn her Master’s Degree in Community College Education from Rowan University and her Master’s Degree in Statistics from the University of Delaware.  In 2013, Dr. Jackson received her doctorate in Educational Leadership from Rowan University.

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POLST Form:  Making Your Wishes Known

Making your wishes known is important for individuals of all ages.  These wishes are often deeply personal and based upon your particular values and beliefs.

You will gain valuable insight on this topic from Dr. James D’Amico, Medford Leas Medical Director.  In particular, Dr. D’Amico will focus on POLST—Practitioner Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment.

POLST is a healthcare planning tool that empowers individuals to work closely with their medical team to detail their wishes in terms of their personal goals and medical preferences when facing a serious illness.   Unlike other documents, such as an advance directive, a completed POLST form is an actual medical order that becomes a part of an individual’s medical record.  It is valid in all healthcare settings.

View this program to gain constructive knowledge on this important topic.   The goal of this session is to share information and to encourage participants to then engage in discussion with loved ones, family members, and healthcare professionals so that your wishes will be known and honored.

Speaker:

Dr. James D’Amico

Dr. D’Amico, DO, FACOI, Medford Leas Medical Director, is a graduate of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey.  He offers Medford Leas residents a strong and comprehensive background in internal medicine, geriatrics, rehabilitation and long-term and hospice care.  Dr. D’Amico works collaboratively with our health and wellness professionals and is proud to be the leader of the Medford Leas Health and Wellness Team.

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Benefits of Exercise for Older Adults

We all know that exercise benefits all of us—no matter what our age, but how does exercise specifically benefit older adults?

Regular exercise can boost your energy, protect your heart, manage pain, improve memory and help to manage weight.  As a result of regular exercise, you may find that your mobility and flexibility is heightened, your balance improved and your cognitive function enhanced.

Join in to view this discussion between Ken Roland, Medford Leas Fitness and Aquatics Manager and Roberta Foss, Medford Leas resident, as they explore this topic.

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