Weekly Updates

Upcoming Events:

• Civic Voices
• Understanding Medicare Health Talk
• Choir Practice 
• Vaccine Clinic (Oct 22)

Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Upcoming Events:

• Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Upcoming Events:

• National Assisted Living Week
• Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Upcoming Events:

• Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Upcoming Events:

• Resident Council Formation Meeting
• Labor Day BBQ
• Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Upcoming Events:

• Resident Forum
• Labor Day BBQ
• Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Upcoming Events:

• Senior Cinema outing to the Avalon Theatre
• Labor Day BBQ
• Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Upcoming Events:

• • Labor Day BBQ
  • Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Upcoming Events:

• • Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Dear Residents and Families,

Happy Friday! 

Thank you to everyone who attended the Cocktails, Mocktails, & Conversation event with us this afternoon. We appreciate the comments, suggestions, and commendations. We look forward to continuing the conversations as we work to continuously improve services to everyone at Grand Oaks.

We are pleased to share this week’s activity schedules for both Assisted Living and Oasis below. We hope you will take a moment to review the programs, outings, and opportunities planned for the week ahead. This Sunday, we will be celebrating National Ice Cream Day! Residents are invited to join us for a sweet treat and enjoy some summertime fun together. We look forward to celebrating with everyone.

As always, thank you for being an important part of the Grand Oaks community. We hope you have a wonderful week ahead.

Upcoming Events:

• • National Ice Cream Day Celebration

Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Dear Residents and Families,

We are pleased to share the upcoming activity schedules for both our Assisted Living and Oasis Memory Care neighborhoods. We hope you will take a moment to review the many programs and opportunities planned for the week ahead.

Next week, we will be celebrating National Ice Cream Day with a special treat for our residents. We look forward to enjoying a fun and delicious celebration together.

We are also looking to support our residents in forming a formal Resident Council. A Resident Council gives residents the opportunity to meet independently, share ideas, discuss topics that are important to them, and have an active voice within the community.  To help residents learn more about the process, we will be hosting an informational session with the Long-Term Care Ombudsman next week. The Ombudsman will explain the purpose of a Resident Council, how residents can establish one, and how Grand Oaks can support their efforts. Please see the flyer below for more information.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership, have a wonderful weekend.

Upcoming Events:

• National Ice Cream Day Celebration
• Your Voice, Your Power!

Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Dear Grand Oaks Family,

This Saturday, our country turns two hundred and fifty years old. For two and a half centuries, America has been built and carried by people like you, by the hands that worked and the hearts that hoped, and by the many among you who once wore this nation’s uniform and answered when it called. Your lives are part of the very story we celebrate on the Fourth of July, and there is no one I would rather honor it beside than you.

Message from Jordan Asrat, Director of Activities:

I am writing to you a little early this week, as I will be away for the month of July. I could not let this holiday arrive without first wishing each of you a happy and meaningful Fourth.

Our celebration takes place this Saturday, July 4, from 11:30 in the morning until 1:30 in the afternoon. With hot and rainy weather in the forecast, we have brought the whole celebration indoors this year, where the afternoon can be enjoyed in comfort.

The rest of the week will be very warm, with temperatures reaching the high nineties and near one hundred. Please drink plenty of water, stay where the air is cool, and look after one another until the heat passes.

While I am away, our Activities team will be here for you in every way. Melvin Gordon and Adela Armendi Dunbebin will be glad to help you in Assisted Living, and Alba-Yanira de Cruz will be here for you in Oasis. Laurie Henley, our Executive Director, will be overseeing and supporting the team, and she will be sending your weekly update letter along with the activities schedules for both neighborhoods and the flyers for every event.

Thank you, as always, for being such a wonderful part of the Grand Oaks family. If you or your loved one needs to speak with someone, our nursing supervisors are here around the clock, and the concierge can reach the right person at any hour at 202-349-3400.

As for me, I intend to spend July resting, doing gloriously little, and being thoroughly missed. I will be back in August, right on time, because a few of you have made it very clear that coming back late is not one of my options.

Upcoming Events:

• 4th of July
• Your Voice, Your Power!

Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Dear Grand Oaks Residents and Family,

As June comes to a close, we have a few important updates to share with you this week.

Final Reminder | Fourth of July Celebration: Saturday, July 4
Our Fourth of July celebration is just around the corner, and the RSVP deadline is fast approaching. If you have not yet let us know that you or your loved one will be joining us, please RSVP before June 27 by calling our concierge at 202-349-3400. We would love to celebrate the day with you.

Thank You for Our Monthly Resident Forum
Thank you to everyone who joined us yesterday for our monthly Resident Forum. This is your community, and your voice is what shapes it. We are grateful to every resident who spoke up and shared with us as we work together to make Grand Oaks the home you deserve. Please keep talking with us and letting us know how we can do better. Your voice always makes a difference.

As you have requested, we have included the contact information for the Long-Term Care Ombudsman along with our updated Grievance Policy, both attached to this email for your reference.

Civic Voices at The Commons : Tuesday, June 30 | 6:30 p.m. | The Commons
This month, the spotlight belongs to one of our very own residents. Eugene L. Bialek will present “Strait of Hormuz and South China Sea” in The Commons on Tuesday, June 30, at 6:30 p.m. It promises to be a fascinating evening, and you will not want to miss it. Please see the attached flyer for more details.

Thank you, as always, for being part of the Grand Oaks family. If you or your loved one needs to speak with someone over the weekend, our nursing supervisors are available and here for you. You are also welcome to call our concierge at 202-349-3400, and they will be happy to direct you to the right person.

Wishing you and your loved ones a warm and restful weekend.

Upcoming Events:

• Civic Voices
• 4th of July

Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Dear Residents and Families,

Happy Friday from all of us at Grand Oaks!

As we head into the weekend, we would like to take a moment to recognize two meaningful occasions this week: Juneteenth and Father’s Day.

Today, our nation observed Juneteenth, a day that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and celebrates freedom, resilience, and hope. We are grateful for the opportunity to reflect on this important part of our nation’s history and honor the diversity, strength, and shared humanity of our community. Sunday, we look forward to honoring the fathers, grandfathers, and father figures in our community during our Father’s Day BBQ.  We are excited to celebrate with residents, families, and friends as we recognize the important role these special men have played in the lives of those around them.

Below, you will find next week’s programming schedules for both our Assisted Living and Oasis Memory Care neighborhoods. We encourage residents and families to review the many opportunities available for engagement, enrichment, wellness, and social connection throughout the week.

Additionally, we have included an invitation to our upcoming Fourth of July celebration. We hope you will make plans to join us as we come together to celebrate Independence Day with our residents, families, and team members.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support and partnership.  We wish everyone a wonderful weekend and look forward to seeing many of you at our Father’s Day BBQ on Sunday.

Upcoming Events:

• Civic Voices
• 4th of July

 Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Dear Grand Oaks Family,

Happy Friday! We hope this week treated you well and that you are ready for a lovely weekend ahead. Next week is shaping up to be a full and exciting one here at Grand Oaks. On Tuesday, our Lunch Bunch heads out to Gregorio’s for an afternoon of great food and even better company. Then Thursday brings a wonderfully busy day, starting with our senior cinema outing to the Avalon in the morning, followed by choir practice in the afternoon, and wrapping up with our Care Connection meeting with Michelle. There is truly something for everyone, and we hope you will join us.

Red, White & BBQ | Our 4th of July Celebration

This year, our nation celebrates 250 years, and what a celebration it will be. For two and a half centuries, America has been built, carried, and lifted by people like you, by your families, and by generations who gave of themselves so that others could live freely. Your stories, your service, and your sacrifices are woven into the very fabric of this country, and we can think of no better way to honor that legacy than to celebrate it together.

Please join us on Saturday, July 4, in the Grand Oaks Courtyard and Dining Room for Red, White & BBQ, an afternoon of great food, cold drinks, and live music. Family members and friends are warmly invited, and we would love a full house. To RSVP for your guests, please call our concierge at 202-349-3400 by Saturday, June 27. The flyer is here with all the details.

A Note Before Jordan Annual July Vacation

As many of you know, Jordan will be away on her annual July vacation. If there is anything you need from her before she leaves, please reach out between now and June 30 so she can take care of it for you. As always, our wonderful team will be here to keep everything running smoothly while she is away.

Thank you, as always, for being such a wonderful part of the Grand Oaks family. Over the weekend, if you or your loved one needs to speak with someone, our nursing supervisors are available and here for you. You are also welcome to call our concierge at 202-349-3400, and they will be happy to direct you to the right person.

Wishing you and your loved ones a warm and wonderful weekend.

Upcoming Events:

• Care Connection
• 4th of July 

 Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Dear Grand Oaks Family,

Can you believe it is already June? The year is moving fast, and as always, there is plenty happening here at Grand Oaks. Before we get into everything, we hope you had a restful week and that you are heading into the weekend feeling good.

IMPORTANT: Gravel Lot Parking Notice

Please take note of an important update from our Director of Facilities, Jermaine Pendleton. Beginning the evening of Monday, June 8, seven parking spaces in the gravel lot will be temporarily blocked off to accommodate equipment needed for our upcoming window replacement project. The spaces will remain unavailable until the project is complete and all equipment has been removed. We appreciate your patience as we work through these important building improvements. The full memo from Jermaine is here, and he is happy to answer any questions at 202-349-3413.

Newsletter Submissions Due June 10

Our quarterly newsletter is heading to print, and we would love to include your voice in it! If you would like to advertise, share an announcement, or contribute anything, please submit it to Jordan Asrat by Wednesday, June 10. The final print deadline is June 15, and we want to make sure nothing gets left out.

Upcoming Event Reminders

Father’s Day Celebration | Sunday, June 21

The RSVP deadline is this Sunday, June 14. Please contact our concierge at 202-349-3400 to reserve your spot. 

Lunch Bunch at Gregorio’s Trattoria | Tuesday, June 16

Sign-up deadline is Thursday, June 11. The bus loads at 11:15 a.m. and departs at 11:30 a.m. Contact our concierge at 202-349-3400 to reserve your spot.

Trip to the National Museum of American History | Tuesday, June 23

Spaces are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Deadline to sign up is Thursday, June 18, at 10:00 a.m. Contact our concierge at 202-349-3400.

Thank you, as always, for being such a wonderful part of the Grand Oaks family. Over the weekend, if you or your loved one needs to speak with someone, our nursing supervisors are available and here for you. You are also welcome to call our concierge at 202-349-3400, and they will be happy to direct you to the right person.

Wishing you and your loved ones a warm and restful weekend.

 Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Happy Memorial Day, Grand Oaks Family!

We hope everyone has had a wonderful week and is feeling ready for the long holiday weekend ahead. Before we share what is coming up, we want to take a moment to reflect on what Memorial Day truly means. This is a time to honor and remember the courageous men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Their bravery and dedication are a lasting reminder of the freedoms we cherish each day, and we are deeply grateful for their legacy.

In celebration of this holiday, we will be hosting our annual Memorial Day BBQ on Monday, and we hope to see every one of you here. As we head into the week, we have a few important updates and events we want to make sure are on your radar.

Grand Oaks Choir | First Concert Thursday, May 28 at 2:30 p.m. | The Commons

We are so proud to announce that the Grand Oaks Choir will be performing their very first concert this Thursday, May 28, at 2:30 p.m. in the Commons. This is a truly special milestone, and we could not be more thrilled for our talented residents. We warmly invite all residents, family members, and friends to come and hear them sing. We cannot wait to share this afternoon with you.

Resident Forum Wednesday, May 27 at 2:00 p.m. | The Commons

Please note that due to the Choir Concert, our monthly Resident Forum will be held this Wednesday, May 27, at 2:00 p.m. in the Commons. We encourage every resident to attend. This is your meeting, and your voice matters. Come share your ideas, ask questions, stay informed, and have your voice heard as we work together to continue making Grand Oaks the best it can be for all residents.

Father’s Day Celebration Sunday, June 21 | 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Father’s Day is just around the corner, and we would love for you to join us in celebrating the wonderful fathers in our community. We have something very special planned for them, and we are confident it will be a morning to remember. For all the details, please see the flyer attached to this email.

Recycling Program Update

We are happy to share that the recycling bins for resident apartments have been ordered and will be arriving soon. Once they arrive, we will be in touch to coordinate placing them in your home. We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you for your patience and for working so graciously with our housekeeping team as we continue to strengthen our recycling program. Your cooperation truly means a great deal to us.

Thank you, as always, for being part of the Grand Oaks family. Over the holiday weekend, if you or your loved one needs to speak with someone, our nursing supervisors are available at 202-437-0346 and here for you. You are also welcome to call our concierge at 202-349-3400, and they will be happy to direct you to the right person.

We wish you and your loved ones a safe, peaceful, and very happy long weekend.

 Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Dear Residents and Families,

Happy Friday!

Below, you will find next week’s activity schedules for both our Assisted Living neighborhood and Oasis Memory Care. As we continue through the spring season, we would also like to remind everyone about our upcoming Memorial Day BBQ celebration. Please RSVP to the concierge desk if you will be joining us. We look forward to bringing residents, families, and team members together for an enjoyable afternoon of food, family and fun.

Next week, we are excited to host our “Knit & Stitch” Club. We encourage residents, families, and community members who enjoy knitting, crocheting, stitching, or simply gathering socially to join us for this special event.

We have also attached information regarding our upcoming Grief Support Group. This group is intended to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals navigating loss, grief, and life transitions, and we encourage anyone who may benefit to attend.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support, partnership, and trust in our team. We are grateful for the opportunity to care for your loved ones and remain committed to creating a warm, vibrant, and welcoming environment for all residents.

We wish everyone a wonderful weekend and look forward to another great week ahead at Grand Oaks.

Things to Look Forward to:

Upcoming Events and Activities:

• Bingo – 3x a week
• Garden Club – Every Wednesday
• Knit & Stitch Craft Club – May 19
• Grief Support Group – May 20
• Activities Planning Meeting – May 21
• Memorial Day Celebration — May 25
• Choir Spring Concert — May 28

If you have any questions or suggestions for new activities and programs, please do not hesitate to reach out to Jordan Asrat, Director of Activities, at yasrat1@jhmi.edu. We appreciate your involvement in our community and look forward to continuing to serve you and your loved ones.

 Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Dear Residents and Families,

We hope everyone is enjoying the beautiful spring weather and settling into the month of May.

Below you will find next week’s activity schedules for both our Assisted Living neighborhood and Oasis Memory Care. Our teams continue working hard to provide engaging programs, meaningful social opportunities, and enriching experiences for all residents throughout the week.

We are especially excited to celebrate Mother’s Day this weekend and look forward to welcoming many families to our Mother’s Day Brunch on Sunday. This is always a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time together while honoring the incredible mothers, grandmothers, and mother figures in our community. We are grateful to share these special moments with you and appreciate everyone who has made reservations to attend.

I have also included information regarding our upcoming Memorial BBQ celebration, along with a flyer for our upcoming Grand Oaks Choir concert. We encourage residents and families to review the details and join us for these special community events in the coming weeks.

As always, thank you for being part of our community and for the continued trust you place in our team. We look forward to another great week ahead.

Things to Look Forward to:

Upcoming Events and Activities:

• Bingo – 3x a week
• Tech Together Workshop – Every Monday
• Scenic van rides – Every Tuesday
• Garden Club – Every Wednesday
• Memorial Day Celebration — May 25
• Choir Spring Concert — May 28

If you have any questions or suggestions for new activities and programs, please do not hesitate to reach out to Jordan Asrat, Director of Activities, at yasrat1@jhmi.edu. We appreciate your involvement in our community and look forward to continuing to serve you and your loved ones.

 Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Dear Residents and Families,

Happy weekend! As we step into the beautiful month of May, we are looking forward to warmer days, blooming flowers, and meaningful time spent together in our community. With longer daylight hours ahead, there are more opportunities to enjoy time outdoors, soak up the sunshine, and take part in seasonal activities.  I have attached the activities programs for next week for both the Assisted Living and Oasis neighborhoods below. 

A quick reminder that our Mother’s Day Brunch will take place next weekend, and we are excited to celebrate all the wonderful mothers and loved ones in our lives.  The deadline to RSVP is today.  Let us know you intend to join by calling 202-349-3400. We want to ensure we have everything prepared for a joyful and memorable gathering.

Later this month, we will also observe Memorial Day, a time to honor and remember those who have served our country.  We will be hosting our annual BBQ, additional information will be sent in a future update.

As always, thank you for allowing us to care for you/your loved one.  We hope you take time this weekend to enjoy the fresh air, connect with loved ones, and appreciate the beauty of the season.  

Things to Look Forward to:

Upcoming Events and Activities:

• Bingo – 3x a week
• Tech Together Workshop – Every Monday
• Scenic van rides – Every Tuesday
• Garden Club – Every Wednesday
• Mother’s Day Celebration — May 10

If you have any questions or suggestions for new activities and programs, please do not hesitate to reach out to Jordan Asrat, Director of Activities, at yasrat1@jhmi.edu. We appreciate your involvement in our community and look forward to continuing to serve you and your loved ones.

 Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Happy Friday, Grand Oaks family!

Can you believe we are already wrapping up April? This month went by so fast! We hope everyone had a wonderful week and is feeling great going into the weekend. We have some exciting news to share, so let’s get right into it.

Welcome, New Team Members!

We are thrilled to announce that we have two wonderful new additions joining the Grand Oaks family!

Many of you already know and love Idys Laguna Pinell from the dining room. Idys has taken on a dual role and will now also be serving as our Oasis Weekend Activities Assistant. She has completed her training and shadowing and is officially on the floor starting this weekend! You can find her in the Oasis on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

We are also pleased to welcome Melvin Gordon as our new full-time Assisted Living Activities Assistant. Melvin is new to Grand Oaks but comes with a wealth of experience in recreational and activities programming. He has completed his onboarding and online training and will begin his on-the-job training on Monday, April 27. His schedule will be Sunday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Please give them both a warm welcome when you see them!

The Activities department is now fully staffed with the following team members: Jordan Asrat, Director of Activities; Adela Armendi Dunbebin, AL Activities Assistant; Alba-Yanira de Cruz, Activities Assistant; Melvin Gordon, AL Activities Assistant; and Idys Laguna Pinell, Oasis Activities Assistant. Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact Jordan at 202-660-7881 or yasrat@jhmi.edu.

Mother’s Day Celebration: Your RSVP Is Due Soon

A few weeks ago, we shared details about our upcoming Mother’s Day celebration, and we are so looking forward to it. If you have already sent in your RSVP, thank you so much! If you have not, please do not wait much longer.

RSVPs are due by the end of the day on Friday, May 1st. We are not able to accept reservations after that date. RSVPs are for guests only. Residents do not need to register. To submit your RSVP, please call 202-349-3400.

This deadline allows us to plan properly and ensure that every family is well taken care of on the day of the event. We kindly ask that attendance be limited to the guests included in your RSVP, as last-minute additions make it difficult to provide the experience that everyone deserves. Please refer to the original invitation for the full event details.

A Friendly Reminder for Oasis Families

To all of the families who visit loved ones in our Oasis memory care neighborhood, thank you so much for the love and time you pour into your visits. It truly means the world to us all.

We want to remind everyone to please be mindful when entering and exiting the Oasis neighborhood. Before stepping out, please take a moment to make sure that only the individuals who came in with you are leaving alongside you. If a resident attempts to follow you out, please notify a staff member immediately. We appreciate your awareness and cooperation more than you know.

Housekeeping Update

We have great news from our housekeeping team! They have officially completed the bathroom floor deep cleaning project. It was a big undertaking, and they did a fantastic job. Thank you to everyone for your patience while that work was being done.

Beginning Monday, April 27, the team will kick off their next project with a full carpet shampooing in the dining room, running through Friday, May 1. We thank you in advance for your patience and flexibility as the team continues to keep our community looking its best.

Thank you for being such a wonderful part of our Grand Oaks family. If you need any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact our concierge at 202-349-3400, and they will direct you to the appropriate department. For after-hours or weekend support, our nursing supervisor is available at 202-437-0346.

Wishing you all a wonderful and restful weekend!

Things to Look Forward to:

Upcoming Events and Activities:

• Bingo – 3x a week
• Tech Together Workshop – Every Monday
• Scenic van rides – Every Tuesday
• Garden Club – Every Wednesday 
• Monthly Resident Forum – April 30
• Mother’s Day Celebration — May 10

If you have any questions or suggestions for new activities and programs, please do not hesitate to reach out to Jordan Asrat, Director of Activities, at yasrat1@jhmi.edu. We appreciate your involvement in our community and look forward to continuing to serve you and your loved ones.

 Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Happy Wednesday Grand Oaks Residents and Families,

I hope everyone is enjoying the beautiful spring weather. The mornings have been especially pleasant with cooler temperatures, followed by warm, sunny afternoons. If you haven’t had a chance yet, I encourage you to get outside, enjoy some fresh air, and take in the season. As temperatures begin to rise into the 90s, please remember to wear sunscreen and stay well hydrated when spending time outdoors.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Passover dinner. It was wonderful to see everyone celebrating together. We truly value these shared moments as a community and look forward to many more celebrations ahead.

With Mother’s Day just around the corner, we are preparing a special celebration for you to share with the mothers and mother figures in your life. The team at Grand Oaks is working to create an event filled with great food and a warm, family-centered atmosphere, and we look forward to honoring and celebrating you.

Please remember that RSVPs are due by the end of the day on Friday, May 1st. We will not be able to accept reservations after this date. This deadline allows us to plan appropriately and ensure adequate staffing to accommodate all guests. We kindly ask that you adhere to this deadline and limit attendance to those included in your RSVP, as last-minute changes impact our ability to provide the best experience for everyone. For your convenience, the invitation with full event details is below.

As always, thank you for being such an important part of our community. If you need assistance, please contact our concierge at 202-349-3400, and they will direct you to the appropriate department. For after-hours or weekend support, our nursing supervisor is available at 202-437-0346.

Wishing you all a peaceful and enjoyable rest of the week.

Things to Look Forward to:

Upcoming Events and Activities:

• Bingo – 3x a week
• Tech Together Workshop – Every Monday
• Scenic van rides – Every Tuesday
• Grief & Loss Support Group — April 22
• Freecycle Event — April 23
• Mother’s Day Celebration — May 10

If you have any questions or suggestions for new activities and programs, please do not hesitate to reach out to Jordan Asrat, Director of Activities, at yasrat1@jhmi.edu. We appreciate your involvement in our community and look forward to continuing to serve you and your loved ones.

 Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Dear Residents and Families.

I hope this message finds you all doing well and that you’ve had a wonderful week. As we head into the weekend, we are looking forward to some beautiful weather ahead, and I encourage everyone to take full advantage of it. If you are able, please spend some time outside, enjoy the fresh air, and soak in the sunshine. It’s a great way to refresh and recharge.

As always, while you are out and about, please remember to stay hydrated. Our dining team continues to support this by providing fruit-infused water in the library for residents to enjoy. This refreshing station is set out each morning and is refreshed again in the afternoon to ensure it stays cool and inviting throughout the day.

We are excited to share that the Grand Oaks Resident Choir will be holding rehearsals next Thursday at 1:30 PM in the Commons. The choir is led by a professional choir director and warmly welcomes new members. Whether you enjoy singing often or simply want to try something new, all are encouraged to join.

Wishing you a safe, relaxing, and enjoyable weekend ahead.

Things to Look Forward to:

Upcoming Events and Activities:

• Bingo – 3x a week
• Tech Together Workshop – Every Monday
• Scenic van rides – Every Tuesday

If you have any questions or suggestions for new activities and programs, please do not hesitate to reach out to Jordan Asrat, Director of Activities, at yasrat1@jhmi.edu. We appreciate your involvement in our community and look forward to continuing to serve you and your loved ones.

 Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Dear Residents and Families,

Happy Easter to everyone celebrating today, and warm wishes to those observing Passover this week. We hope you are able to spend the holiday with family and friends and enjoy the day together. In recognition of Passover, we will be hosting a Seder Dinner on Wednesday at 5:00 PM, and we look forward to welcoming all who will be joining us.

As a friendly reminder, if a resident plans to leave the community overnight or for a few days to visit loved ones, please notify the wellness office at least 48 hours in advance. This advance notice allows our nursing and care teams the time needed to properly prepare medications, review care needs, and ensure that everything required for a safe and comfortable visit is ready before departure. This preparation helps prevent delays and ensures that residents have the medications and support they need while away from the community.

Below you’ll find the latest Oasis and Assisted Living activity schedules, along with flyers for several upcoming events.

Wishing everyone a wonderful Sunday and a great week ahead

Things to Look Forward to:

Upcoming Events and Activities:

• Bingo – 3x a week
• Tech Together Workshop – Every Monday
• Scenic van rides – Every Tuesday
• Civic Voices – April 7
• Passover dinner – April 8
• Book club – April 9

If you have any questions or suggestions for new activities and programs, please do not hesitate to reach out to Jordan Asrat, Director of Activities, at yasrat1@jhmi.edu. We appreciate your involvement in our community and look forward to continuing to serve you and your loved ones.

 Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Dear Residents and Families,

We are providing an important update regarding the recent “phishing” emails and hacking activity some of you experienced this past weekend.

What Happened & What We Have Done

Our investigation confirmed that a hacker gained access to some personal computers by sending fake emails asking for “favors” or gift cards. We discovered that the hacker did leave behind software such as LogMeIn, TeamViewer, or GoToMyPC on several computers.

It is important to understand that these are normally legitimate software tools often used by IT professionals or even your own family members to help you with technical issues. However, the hacker used them as Remote Access Trojans (RATs), installing them without permission to bypass normal security and gain secret entry into the systems.

To ensure your safety, we have been working with a third-party security specialist to identify and remove these unauthorized tools from residents’ computers. We have confirmed that these “backdoors” are now closed, and residents can use their computers safely.

Ongoing Safety Steps

While the immediate threat has been cleared, we ask that you remain vigilant:

• Disconnect if Suspicious: If you ever suspect your computer is being controlled or if a strange window appears, immediately disconnect from the Wi-Fi or internet and call Jordan Asrat (202-660-7881) or the front desk for assistance.
• Ignore Unexpected Requests: No legitimate business, bank, or staff member will ever ask you for money via Apple Cards, gift cards, or wire transfers.
• Verify Before Paying: Do not, under any circumstances, send any form of payment to anyone, no matter how real or urgent the story sounds. With the help of AI, hackers are now using cloning programs to sound and act exactly like your friends or loved ones. Even if a request comes from a familiar phone number or email, please call that person directly or reach out to me before taking any action.
• Report New Issues: If you are still experiencing any technical glitches or receive more suspicious requests, please reach out to Jordan directly so we can take further action. You can contact her at Jordan Asrat, Email: yasrat@jhmi.edu, Phone: 202-660-7881.

Your security is our top priority. We are committed to maintaining a safe digital environment for everyone at Grand Oaks.

Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we resolved this issue.

Things to Look Forward to:

Upcoming Events and Activities:

• Bingo – 3x a week
• Tech Together Workshop – Every Monday
• Scenic van rides – Every Tuesday
• Easter Brunch – April 5
• Passover dinner – April 8

If you have any questions or suggestions for new activities and programs, please do not hesitate to reach out to Jordan Asrat, Director of Activities, at yasrat1@jhmi.edu. We appreciate your involvement in our community and look forward to continuing to serve you and your loved ones.

 Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Dear Residents and Families,

As we welcome the arrival of spring, we are excited to share a wonderful lineup of events and opportunities to enjoy the beauty of the season together.

Cherry Blossom Outings
Next week, we will begin taking a special trip to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom. This is always a highlight of the season, and we look forward to spending time outdoors enjoying the fresh air, scenic views, and the company of friends. Please be sure to dress comfortably and wear appropriate footwear for walking.

Easter Brunch Invitation
We are also pleased to invite you and your loved ones to our upcoming Easter Brunch. Additional details and RSVP information are included here we hope you can join us for this special celebration.

Warmer Weather & Staying Hydrated
With the warmer temperatures arriving, it’s a great time to get outside and enjoy the sunshine. As we become more active, we want to gently remind everyone about the importance of staying well hydrated. Drinking water regularly throughout the day helps maintain energy, supports overall health, and is especially important when spending time outdoors. We encourage residents to keep a water bottle nearby and to take advantage of the refreshing beverage stations available throughout the community.

We look forward to a week filled with connection, celebration, and the beauty of the season. See below the activity schedules for each neighborhood as well as flyers for upcoming events.  As always, please reach out if you have any questions or need assistance.

Things to Look Forward to:

Upcoming Events and Activities:

• Bingo – 3x a week
• Tech Together Workshop – Every Monday
• Scenic van rides – Every Tuesday
• Easter Brunch – April 5

If you have any questions or suggestions for new activities and programs, please do not hesitate to reach out to Jordan Asrat, Director of Activities, at yasrat1@jhmi.edu. We appreciate your involvement in our community and look forward to continuing to serve you and your loved ones.

 Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Dear Residents and Families,

Happy Friday!

We are pleased to share our weekly programming schedules for both our Assisted Living and Oasis neighborhoods, which are below. Our team has prepared another engaging week filled with activities, opportunities for connection, and meaningful moments for everyone to enjoy.

We are especially excited to highlight a few upcoming programs:

• Grand Oaks Choir – A favorite program returning to our community, the choir brings residents together through the joy of music.
• Tech Together Workshop – This partnership program presented with Legacy Rehab gives residents the chance to build confidence with technology, ask questions, and learn how to stay connected with loved ones in new ways.
• Civic Voices featuring D.C. Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb – We are honored to host this engaging program, offering residents the opportunity to hear directly from and connect with a respected civic leader. Programs like this reflect our ongoing commitment to lifelong learning and meaningful engagement with the broader community.

As we head into the weekend, we’re especially grateful for the warm weather in the forecast. Sunshine and fresh air can do wonders for the spirit, and we encourage everyone to spend a little time outdoors.  Warmer days always bring a renewed sense of energy and joy to our community.

This week brought many positive moments worth celebrating.  Here in our own community, we’ve witnessed residents supporting one another, families staying closely connected, and staff going above and beyond to create meaningful experiences each day. These everyday acts of care truly make our community special.

Thank you for your continued trust, involvement, and partnership. We are grateful for each and every one of you.

Wishing you a restful, sunny, and joy-filled weekend!

Things to Look Forward to:

Upcoming Events and Activities:

• Grand Oaks Choir – March 5
• Tech Together Workshop – Every Monday
• Civic Voices featuring D.C. Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb – March 3

If you have any questions or suggestions for new activities and programs, please do not hesitate to reach out to Jordan Asrat, Director of Activities, at yasrat1@jhmi.edu. We appreciate your involvement in our community and look forward to continuing to serve you and your loved ones.

 Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Happy Monday everyone,

I hope you all had a pleasant weekend and are looking forward to the warmer weather that is headed our way this week. After the recent snow and ice, it has been satisfying to see the remaining piles finally begin to melt. A little sunshine always brightens the mood.

Thank you to everyone who joined us on Saturday evening for our Valentine’s Day celebration. It was a wonderful evening of live music, dancing, and celebrating love. It was so much fun to see people singing, enjoying the live trio band, and spending time with one another.

CELEBRATING ASH WEDNESDAY:
In observance of Ash Wednesday, Father Andy will be here to lead Ash Wednesday Mass for our residents on Wednesday, February 18, at 1:30 PM in the 2nd-floor Country Kitchen across from the library.

CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH:
Looking ahead, we invite you to join us on Friday, February 20th, from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM in the Commons for Celebrating Black History Month: History and Performance of Music by Black Composers, led by Everett Williams, Minister of Music. Everett will perform on piano, accompanied by two singers and a trumpet player, followed by a dramatic reading by a guest artist, along with a brief presentation highlighting the contributions of African American musicians and composers. We hope you can come and be part of this celebration of music and history.

Wishing you a wonderful week ahead.

Things to Look Forward to:

Upcoming Events and Activities:

• Ash Wednesday – Feb 18
• Black History Month Celebration – Feb 20

If you have any questions or suggestions for new activities and programs, please do not hesitate to reach out to Jordan Asrat, Director of Activities, at yasrat1@jhmi.edu. We appreciate your involvement in our community and look forward to continuing to serve you and your loved ones.

 Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Things to Look Forward to:

Upcoming Events and Activities:

• N/a

If you have any questions or suggestions for new activities and programs, please do not hesitate to reach out to Jordan Asrat, Director of Activities, at yasrat1@jhmi.edu. We appreciate your involvement in our community and look forward to continuing to serve you and your loved ones.

 Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Dear Grand Oaks Residents and Families,

Can you believe it’s already the 1st of February? With last week’s snow and the cold weather, please be careful outdoors, as melting snow may create icy spots.

As we step into a new month, I am excited to share that February is officially designated as National Senior Independence Month. Our mission has always been to provide the support and resources you need to live autonomous, fulfilled lives. This month is a reminder that independence isn’t just about what you can do on your own. It’s about having the dignity, the resources, and the voice to shape your own life safely and confidently.

Empowerment and Advocacy
True independence thrives when we speak up. We encourage all our residents to be active participants in our community. Whether it’s sharing feedback during Resident Forum meetings or speaking to local D.C. governing bodies about senior-specific provisions, your voice matters. We want Grand Oaks to be a place where you feel empowered to advocate for the services and accessibility that matter most to you.

Speaking Up Without Fear
I want to take a moment to remind you that you have the right to speak up without fear of retaliation. Residents’ Rights protect this freedom all year, but National Senior Independence Month is a perfect time to remember that your thoughts, concerns, and ideas are valued. Whether you are speaking with our staff or reaching out to the D.C. Long-Term Care Ombudsman, you should always feel safe and respected.

Your Ombudsman Contact Information:

• Ombudsman: Purley Jones
• Phone: 202-434-2190
• Email: pjones@aarp.org        

Building a Stronger Community
We can’t wait to hear you all singing together at our new Grand Oaks Choir led by a professional director on February 5th, dancing to live music during our Valentine’s Day celebration, discussing your book in Book Club, sharing your views and listening to our guest speaker at the Civic Voices Tuesday meeting at 6:30 pm, exploring your creativity in Watercolor Class, enjoying a good laugh with friends during Cocktail Hours, learning new skills in Tech Classes, and joining the Daily Exercise Class at 11 am led by our professional trainer. Have a wonderful week!

Upcoming Events and Activities:

• What’s up with ICE? – Feb 2
• Grand Oaks Choir – First Meeting
• Health Talk – Feb 5

If you have any questions or suggestions for new activities and programs, please do not hesitate to reach out to Jordan Asrat, Director of Activities, at yasrat1@jhmi.edu. We appreciate your involvement in our community and look forward to continuing to serve you and your loved ones.

 Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Dear Grand Oaks Residents and Families,

Happy Sunday! I hope your weekend went well and that you are ready for the week ahead. As we begin a new week, I want to share updates from across our community to keep you fully informed.

Clinical Update:
As the “super flu” continues to circulate in our surrounding area, please be assured that all precautionary safety measures remain in place to protect the health of our community. Your well-being is our highest priority. Residents are encouraged to notify a nurse immediately if they experience even mild symptoms, such as a cough or body aches, so that support can be provided promptly. We also ask that family members postpone visits if they are feeling unwell or wear a mask while in the building if they choose to visit. Surgical masks are available at the front desk for residents or guests who wish to use one. Thank you for your continued cooperation as we work together to maintain a healthy environment at Grand Oaks.

Housekeeping Update:
To ensure your spaces remain safe, clean, and well-maintained, the Housekeeping Team will begin a deep cleaning of bathroom floors on Monday, January 19, 2026. This Bathroom Floor Deep Cleaning Project will continue throughout February, with staff working each day from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM across all floors. Housekeeping staff will be present in the bathrooms during this time, performing their work carefully to maintain cleanliness and safety while minimizing any disruption to your daily routine. We appreciate your patience and cooperation as this important project is completed. For any questions or concerns, please contact Polima Sainvil, Housekeeping Manager, at psainvi1@jhmi.edu.

Grand Oaks Newsletter:
The third quarterly issue of the Grand Oaks Newsletter was distributed to all residents last week. We hope you are finding it engaging and informative. This newsletter is created for residents, by residents, and we invite anyone interested to join the Newsletter Club and provide feedback on content for the next issue. All suggestions and write-ups should be submitted to the writers by February 20 to be included. Submission details are available in the “Letter to the Writers” section of the newsletter.

We also wish to correct a detail from the previous issue: Ms. Heimann’s correct birthday is March 1. We appreciate your understanding as we continue refining each edition of the newsletter.

We encourage residents and families to review the schedules and reach out with any questions or interests. Thank you for your ongoing engagement, communication, and trust. We wish you a safe and healthy week ahead.

Upcoming Events and Activities:

• None for now

If you have any questions or suggestions for new activities and programs, please do not hesitate to reach out to Jordan Asrat, Director of Activities, at yasrat1@jhmi.edu. We appreciate your involvement in our community and look forward to continuing to serve you and your loved ones.

 Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living

Dear Residents and Families,

Happy New Year!

We hope that 2026 is off to a great start for you and your loved ones. It was such a joy to celebrate the holiday season together with all of you. As we begin the new year, we want to continue keeping you informed about important updates that support seamless communication and the daily services you rely on.

We want to let you know about a phone message you may have heard when calling Grand Oaks landline phones. The message says:

“You have reached the Cisco Unified Communications system.”

If you happen to hear this message, please come to the front desk and let the concierge know. If you are unable to come to the front desk, notify your care manager or the closest team member, who will report it to the concierge on your behalf. The concierge will then submit a ticket to Sibley IT, which will resolve the matter and ensure that staff lines remain fully operational for your needs.

Thank you for working with us to maintain seamless communication and reliable support for your daily needs. Your partnership helps ensure that everything continues to run smoothly and efficiently.

As always, if you have any questions or need assistance during the weekend, our nursing supervisor is available at 202-437-0346.

Wishing you and your loved ones a happy and healthy New Year!

Upcoming Events and Activities:

• None for now

If you have any questions or suggestions for new activities and programs, please do not hesitate to reach out to Jordan Asrat, Director of Activities, at yasrat1@jhmi.edu. We appreciate your involvement in our community and look forward to continuing to serve you and your loved ones.

 Weekly Program Updates:

• Oasis
• Assisted Living