SEPTEMBER 2026 Life Style PARK PLACE OF ST. JOHN
Life at Park Place of St. John A Message from Melissa
September Book Club The Secret Life of Sunflowers Marta Molnar, Dana Marton A gripping, inspiring novel based on the true story of Johanna Bonger, Vincent van Gogh's sister-in-law. When Hollywood auctioneer Emsley Wilson finds her famous grandmother's diary while cleaning out her New York brownstone, the pages are full of surprises. The first surprise is, the diary isn't her grandmother's. It belongs to Johanna Bonger, Vincent van Gogh's sister-in-law.
Well, I don’t think anyone was anticipating Northwest Indiana spending August recovering from a terribly destructive storm! God was good to Park
Place of St John and its residents. We were spared from severe damage, our residents remained unharmed and our power outage was short compared to most. In Isaiah 41:10 God tells us, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Our prayers continue for those still dealing with the aftermath of this unfortunate event. In the month of September, we are looking forward to Park Place of St John’s annual Ice Cream Social on the 16th. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet the most important people in our residents’ lives! We will once again say goodbye to Summer and welcome Fall which is always a wonder to see God’s handiwork in the foliage. There are more good times planned and much fellowship ahead as we continue our journey together at Park Place of St John. Genuinely,
Johanna inherited Vincent van Gogh's paintings. They were all she had, and they weren't worth anything. She was a 28-year-old widow with a baby in the 1800s, without any means of supporting herself, living in Paris where she barely
spoke the language. Yet she managed to introduce Vincent's legacy to the world. The inspiration couldn't come at a better time for Emsley. With her business failing, an unexpected love turning up in her life, and family secrets unraveling, can she find answers in the past?
Melissa Augustson Life Enrichment Director
www.ParkPlaceStJohn.com (219) 351-5200 | ppsj@provlife.com | 10700 Park Place | St. John, IN 46373
PARK PLACE OF ST. JOHN Life Style
September Activity Highlights All activities are subject to change – watch the weekly calendar for changes to this newsletter. Some of the following Activities will require Sign Up and you will see that noted next to the Event.
Entertainment, J. Jay Brook Friday, September 4 @ 2:00 p.m. Café Breakfast at Sophia’s Tuesday, September 8 @ 9:00 a.m. Sign Up Required PPSJ Assisted Living Visit Wednesday, September 8 @ 9:15 a.m. Sign up Required Craft, Fall Door Decoration Wednesday, September 8 @ 12:30 p.m. Sign Up Required/Creation Studio Book Club Discussion Wednesday, September 8 @ 2:30 p.m. Gathering Room
Walgreens & Rise ‘n Roll Bakery Tuesday, September 1 @ 9:00 a.m. Sign Up Required PPSJ Assisted Living Visit Wednesday, September 2 @ 9:15 a.m. Sign Up Required
St John Shopping Bus Thursday, September 3 @ 9:00 a.m./12:30 p.m. Sign up Required
St John Shopping Thursday, September 9 @ 9:00 a.m./12:30 p.m. Sign Up Required
CapTel Phones Presentation Thursday, September 3 @ 11:00 a.m. Community Room
Fruit Mocktails on the Patio Thursday, September 9 @ 12:00 p.m.
www.ParkPlaceStJohn.com (219) 351-5200 | ppsj@provlife.com | 10700 Park Place | St. John, IN 46373
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PARK PLACE OF ST. JOHN Life Style
Resident September Birthday Party Friday, September 10 @ 12:30 p.m. Main Dining Room Backyard BBQ Friday, September 10 @ 4:00 p.m. Main Dining Room Veteran Coffee Klatch Monday, September 14 @ 10:00 a.m. Club Room
PPSJ Assisted Living Visit Wednesday, September 16 @ 9:15 a.m. Sign Up Required
PPSJ Ice Cream Social Wednesday, September 16, 4:00-6:00 p.m.
Front of IL Building Sign Up Required
St. John Shopping Thursday, September 17 @ 9:00 a.m./12:30 pm Sign Up Required Entertainment, Dune Country Band Friday, September 18 @ 1:00 p.m. Café
Men’s Breakfast with Pastor Mark Tuesday, September 15 @ 9:00 a.m.
Main Dining Room Sign Up Required
Sunrise Greenhouse Tuesday, September 15 @ 10:00 a.m. Sign Up Required
T Kal-Bro Produce Tuesday, September 22 @ 10:00 a.m. Sign Up Required
PPSJ Assisted Living Visit Wednesday, September 23 @ 9:15 a.m. Sign Up Required
Great Harvest Bread Company Great Harvest orders will be due on Tuesday, September 15th.
Aurelios Pizza Lunch Wednesday, September 23 @ 12:15 p.m.
Main Dining Room Sign Up Required
www.ParkPlaceStJohn.com (219) 351-5200 | ppsj@provlife.com | 10700 Park Place | St. John, IN 46373
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PARK PLACE OF ST. JOHN Life Style
“Home Safety & Fall Prevention” Symbria Presentation with Julia Minton 12:00 p.m., Community Room Town Hall Friday, September 25 @ 11:00 a.m. Café Fall Happy Hour Friday, September 25 @ 12:30 p.m. Café National Coffee Day Coffee Bar Tuesday, September 29 @ 9:30 a.m. Café PPSJ Assisted Living Visit Wednesday, September 30 @ 9:15 a.m. Sign Up Required Incredible Eats: Puff Pastry Apple Rings Wednesday, September 30 @ 11:30 a.m. Creation Studio Sign Up Required
St. John Shopping 9:00 a.m. and 12:30 a.m. Bus Departures Sign up required • Thursday, September 24th
9:00 a.m. — St. John 12:30 p.m. — Meijer
www.ParkPlaceStJohn.com (219) 351-5200 | ppsj@provlife.com | 10700 Park Place | St. John, IN 46373
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PARK PLACE OF ST. JOHN Life Style
Chaplain’s Corner Lament. Devastation. That’s what northeast Illinois and
critical, that even unbelievers suddenly believe in God when disaster strikes. But the Bible is clear about this: God is not to blame. Well, we respond, then who is? I have to remind myself to look in the mirror. I’m guilty. So are you. So is the entire human race. The Bible’s first book of Genesis explains the truth we don’t like (or re- fuse) to admit. When humanity initially rejected and rebelled against God, severe consequenc- es followed. The human race became broken. And the planet became broken. Natural disas- ters of every variety became part of life. At the same time, the Bible is also clear that God is moved by human suffering. He hates it. Deplores it. Grieves it. Blame leads to com- plaining and complaining leads to all sorts of negative consequences: relationship conflicts, those who could help refuse, more and worse anxiety, discouragement or depression leading to emotional, physical, and mental breakdown. And more suffering. What’s the alternative? Lament. We see many Biblical characters who lament during terrible times. In fact, there’s a whole book entitled
northwest Indiana expe- rienced last month when several tornados brought an apocalyptic night-
mare to thousands and thousands of people, homes, businesses, roads and infrastructure. Here in September people are still attempting to recover. Natural disasters bring up that all too common refrain, “Why?” “Why me, why my family and friends,” why…well, why everything? After the whys come the next phase: blame. If we humans are experts at anything, it’s blame. Blame knows no class, race, intellect, achieve- ments, or nationality. Blame is an equal oppor- tunity employer. We regularly blame the governing authorities or whatever group or organization that either caused the devastation or is somehow sup- posed to ride to our rescue. But there is Some- one who gets the most frequent and vicious blame: God. It’s almost laughable, if not hypo-
Continued
www.ParkPlaceStJohn.com (219) 351-5200 | ppsj@provlife.com | 10700 Park Place | St. John, IN 46373
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PARK PLACE OF ST. JOHN Life Style
“Lamentations”. Lamenting is grieving losses (of all kinds) and anguishing trials and difficulties. It appeals to God and others without blame or complaining. At the same time, it seeks out options that may help resolve the issues. Yes, some situations take time to resolve. In those times, Psalm 27 exhorts us, “Wait patiently for the LORD. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the LORD.” Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” While these may sound like “pat answers,” millions have found comfort, strength, and wisdom that lifts them up from their difficulties or sorrows to find divine power to move forward.
Perseverance is another Biblical principle when addressing really hard or not easily remedied issues. Given time, when we truly trust the Lord, we find His promises become a reality in our lives. Yes, life is often hard. The Bible doesn’t “su- garcoat” life. Trials and difficulties will make life challenging. But they also often bring people together to help each other. Perseverance pays off. But far better, those who trust in the Lord and seek His guidance and help experience supernatural benefits. And while God grieves the consequences of life’s storms, He also uses them for eternal good.
www.ParkPlaceStJohn.com (219) 351-5200 | ppsj@provlife.com | 10700 Park Place | St. John, IN 46373
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PARK PLACE OF ST. JOHN Life Style
Sharing Life & Making Memories August was packed with joy, laughter, and community spirit. From celebrating birthdays and tapping along with rhythm sticks, to friendly rounds of cards — every moment was filled with connection and fun. Take a look back at the highlights, share in the smiles, and enjoy the snapshots of a community that truly knows how to make the most of each day.
www.ParkPlaceStJohn.com (219) 351-5200 | ppsj@provlife.com | 10700 Park Place | St. John, IN 46373
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PARK PLACE OF ST. JOHN Life Style
Senior Fitness with Symbria Ten Ways to Celebrate “Curiosity Has No Age Limit” During September Is Healthy Aging® Month 2026 September is Healthy Aging® Month 2026 and curiosity is one of the best ways to keep life interesting at every age. Whether you’re learning a new skill, exploring a different place, or simply asking more questions, each new experience can broaden your perspective. Here are 10 simple ways to celebrate September Is Healthy Aging® Month and this year’s theme, “Curiosity Has No Age Limit.”
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6 Embrace technology. Learn how to use a new app, device, or online tool that can enhance your daily life. 7 Pursue a creative interest.
Learn something new. Take a class, attend a workshop, watch a tutorial, or explore a subject that has always interested you.
2 Explore your community. Visit a museum, park, historic site,
Write, paint, photograph, cook, garden, craft, or make music simply for the joy of learning.
restaurant, or neighborhood you’ve never experienced before.
3 Try a new physical activity.
8 Ask more questions.
Consider walking, pickleball, yoga, tai chi, swimming, dancing, or another activity that challenges you in a positive way.
Curiosity begins with a willingness to wonder and explore.
9 Revisit an old dream. Consider a hobby, destination, skill, or goal you’ve always wanted to pursue. 10 Say yes to a new experience. Growth often begins when we step outside familiar routines.
4 Read outside your comfort zone.
Choose a book, magazine, or article on a topic you know little about.
5 Connect with people of different generations.
Curiosity Starts Today What are you curious about?
Meaningful conversations across age groups can offer fresh perspectives and new ideas.
Source: Healthy Aging Magazine (www.healthyaging.net)
www.ParkPlaceStJohn.com (219) 351-5200 | ppsj@provlife.com | 10700 Park Place | St. John, IN 46373
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PARK PLACE OF ST. JOHN Life Style
SURVEY We want to hear from you! Our resident satisfaction survey will be open from September 14 – September 28, 2026. If you need assistance accessing your survey, please reach out to Patrick Johnson. All surveys are
NEW BUS We have been blessed with a new bus at Park Place of St John. As you may have noticed, we no longer have the storage shelf behind the driver’s seat on our new bus. Our Thursday shopping trips usually allow residents to put their groceries in the empty seat next to them. Melissa has large reusable grocery bags on the bus for residents to borrow which can hold multiple store bags for transporting. The bus bags can either be returned directly to Melissa or the Front Desk. When we have special shopping trips such as Walgreens, it is important to remember that the bus is usually full, and your purchases will need to remain on your lap or depending on size, under your seat. Please understand that our campus transportation opportunities are not meant to accommodate the same space as personal transportation.
confidential unless you choose to share your name in the comments section.
MOVIES At the request of our residents, we now offer six nights of movies and one night of documentary learning. Please remember to silence your phones when entering the Community Room. If it is necessary to receive or make a phone call during the movie, we kindly ask that you do so outside of the Community Room.
www.ParkPlaceStJohn.com (219) 351-5200 | ppsj@provlife.com | 10700 Park Place | St. John, IN 46373
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PARK PLACE OF ST. JOHN 10700 Park Place | St. John, IN 46373 | (219) 351-5200
www.ParkPlaceStJohn.com
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