Monthly Happenings at PHS

Carol Bruder Art Show

Carol Bruder is a resident who is an amazing painter and artist. She paints beautiful scenes from pictures she takes of gardens and the world around her. She was kind enough to donate some art to the home, adding two new paintings to the many she has already gifted to us, beautifying the home, and adding a touch of color in each hallway. She personally guided each resident through the exhibit if they had questions, and all visitors were able to enjoy sparkling cider and charcuterie.

Chef Demo

Chef Tom led another amazing class and demonstration. This month he showed us how to make latkes- potato pancakes. They are a traditional Hannukah treat, and the oil used to fry the latkes represents the oil used for the menorah for 8 nights. He showed us how to make the latkes and gave us some to try!

Occupational Octaves Program

We’re so excited to share about Occupational Octaves, an innovative piano program created by Lee D. Stockner! Using colorful rings for each finger and a special book, this program teaches piano in a fun and unique way. Our residents had an incredible time trying it out and, believe it or not, they were able to play their first song in just 30 minutes!

Huge thanks to Lee D. Stockner for creating this awesome experience and sharing it with our community!

Valentine’s Day Party

What an unforgettable Valentine’s Day Party! Our residents had the best time dancing, enjoying incredible love songs by the talented Maria Manetti, and indulging in sweet cookies and refreshing drinks. The dining room was a beautiful sea of pink and red, setting the perfect mood for an evening filled with love and laughter.

Girl Scout Troop 1351

A huge thank you to Girl Scout Troop 1351 for bringing their amazing upcycling craft to our residents! Together, we created beautiful garland decor using strips of textiles from used clothing that might have been tossed away. It was a wonderful way to repurpose, get creative, and make something special!

Howie’s Heart Little Box of Kindness

A big thank you to Howie’s Heart for allowing us to host their Little Box of Kindness! Staff and residents have been exchanging thoughtful notes and donations, and it’s been amazing to see the kindness spreading throughout our community. We’re so grateful for this beautiful initiative that’s bringing us all closer together.

Girl Scout Troop 1351

We are so grateful to the amazing girls of Girl Scout Troop 1351 for their creativity and kindness! They introduced our residents to upcycled planters made from plastic bottles, giving them a second life instead of being tossed away. Each planter was hand-painted with love, and zinnia seeds were planted inside, ready to bloom soon! Thank you, Troop 1351, for helping us grow both flowers and hearts!

Spring Flowers Painting Craft

Spring is in full bloom at Plattduetsche art programs! Our residents brought the season to life with a Spring Flowers Painting craft—adding vibrant color to their canvases and creativity to the air! Each masterpiece is a celebration of spring and a reminder that art and joy always blossom together.

Cinco de Mayo Activities

Residents celebrated Cinco de Mayo with a lively game of Lotería! The room was full of laughter, friendly competition, and festive fun as everyone played for prizes. A colorful, cultural way to mark the holiday together!

Homestead School Kindergarten Choir

Our hearts were full as the Homestead School Kindergarten Choir performed for our residents—complete with garden poems, spring-themed songs, and adorable dance moves! Their energy lit up the room and brought joy to everyone here at PHS. Our residents were all smiles—what a beautiful moment of intergenerational joy!

Beautiful Me Program

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Joanne from the Hance Foundation’s Beautiful Me program, who led two incredible sessions focused on confidence, self-love, support, and personal growth.

Her warm and empowering approach created a safe space for meaningful conversations and reflection, leaving our participants feeling uplifted and inspired.

Thank you, Joanne, for sharing your time, energy, and compassion with our community—we are truly grateful!

Newcomers Tea

Welcome to the neighborhood! We recently hosted our Newcomers Tea—a warm and welcoming event where new residents had the chance to introduce themselves, meet fellow neighbors, and chat with our friendly staff.

Over tea, coffee, and delicious pastries, conversations flowed and connections were made. It’s just one of the many ways we help our newest residents feel right at home here at Plattduetsche Home Society.

We’re so glad you’re here!

Concerts In the Park

Everyone had a fantastic time at the Andy Cooney concert, enjoying an evening filled with lively music, singing, and dancing! Even better? Our residents got to meet Andy himself—a truly unforgettable moment!

Our residents and staff had an amazing time at German-American Night at Eisenhower Park!  With the sun shining and the bands playing, the atmosphere was full of energy, joy, and great music.

Trips to Lido Beach

Our residents had a wonderful time at Lido Beach this July! They enjoyed leisurely walks along the shore, refreshing swims in the pool, and a beautiful beachside lunch.

There’s nothing better than great company, good food, and the soothing sound of the waves in the background – a perfect recipe for a summer outing!

City Stars Orchestra – Big Band Trip

Our residents attended an evening concert at Floral Park featuring the City Stars Orchestra. The musicians performed lively, familiar big band music, which residents recognized and enjoyed. The event drew a large crowd, and our group was engaged throughout, clapping along and enjoying the upbeat atmosphere. This outing gave residents the opportunity to experience live music, socialize, and share in a fun community event outside the home.

Elmont Library – King Lear Performance

Residents took a trip to the Elmont Library to see a performance of Shakespeare’s King Lear put on by community members. The show was well-staged, and the performers brought great energy and passion to their roles. Residents were able to enjoy an afternoon of culture and theater while spending time together. This trip offered both entertainment and enrichment, connecting residents with a meaningful cultural experience.

Oktoberfest Lunch

Today we celebrated Oktoberfest—a tradition especially close to the hearts of our German residents. The day was filled with the sights, sounds, and flavors of the season, from delicious food to festive music that brought everyone together. It was a wonderful opportunity to honor culture, share joy, and create lasting memories in the community. ✨

Tea Party

An afternoon of elegance and gratitude! Our residents gathered for a delightful Tea Party to honor Florence Reiss, who worked here at PHS and later became a resident. Florence founded the Klatsch Blatt, our community newsletter, and dedicated 38 years to sharing resident stories, event highlights, and community news. This celebration was our way of thanking her for all she has contributed to PHS and for the lasting legacy she has created. 💐

Fall Crafts

Residents enjoyed a variety of creative activities that showcased their artistic flair and seasonal spirit. Some of the crafts included pumpkin painting, cup design, optical illusion hand art, bracelet making, and watercolor painting. Each activity was a fun and engaging way for residents to express their creativity and keep their hands and minds active!

Steuben Day Parade

Our residents, staff & Ladies Society had a blast at the Steuben Day Parade! We rode the PHS float, cheered with the crowd & celebrated German culture together.

Miracle of Music Program

The Miracle of Music program brought smiles, songs, and even a few dance moves!

Residents received personalized headphones loaded with their favorite tunes — and the happiness was contagious! Residents, Chaminade High School students, and staff shared laughter, conversation, and singalongs, connecting through the power of music.

Special thanks to Chaminade High School for volunteering their time and to Goidel Law Group for their generous donation of music equipment.

Veterans Recognition Events

We were honored to welcome the Blue Star Mothers, who presented our resident Eleanor—a proud Army nurse and World War II veteran—with a handmade pillow crafted from a retired American flag. This thoughtful gift recognized her remarkable service and dedication to our country. Thank you to the Blue Star Mothers for this meaningful gesture and to Eleanor for her incredible service and strength.

Eleanor also attended a special celebration in Mineola honoring Sgt. Anthony Catalano, who recently turned 105! Together, these two remarkable veterans share 209 years of life, service, and wisdom.

Christmas Eve Party

PHS residents enjoyed a joyful Christmas Eve celebration featuring a festive singalong, a delicious meal complete with appetizers and a beautiful charcuterie spread, and plenty of laughter shared among friends.

There was even a special visit from Santa Claus, complete with a fun photoshoot that captured smiles and holiday memories to cherish.🎄🎅

Christmas Caroling

Our residents had a wonderful time singing along as the Babylon Chorale performed festive songs, including “Deck the Halls,” during their holiday visit! Tambourines, bells, and joyful voices filled the room, creating a festive atmosphere full of cheer and community spirit.

Music truly brings everyone together—what a magical way to celebrate the season! 🎶