Atrium Residents Attend The History and Textiles of Guatemala

The Atrium Independent Living residence at the Allendale Community for Mature Living provides a range of cultural events for both its residents and community members. Recently, the Therapeutic Recreation & Community Relations Director of The Atrium, Mary Stampleman, presented a program on the history of Guatemala and discussed the colorful handwoven textiles made by the descendants of the Mayan Indians.

Atrium Resident Michelina Mizerek, Senior Social Club Coordinator Bernadette Hicks and Atrium Resident Fr. Kenneth St. Amand, all of whom were dressed in original Guatemalen textiles, enjoyed the event along with other residents. This seminar was given in honor of Fr. St. Amand, who spent a number of years in Guatemala.

Mary Stampleman states, "As an Art Major in college, I latched onto the colorful textiles of Central America and specifically, Guatemala. After going on a field trip there, I collected many textiles and slides of this country. While speaking with Fr. Ken about his travels, he mentioned that he had spent a long period of time in Guatemala, so I brought back the program in his honor. He made many comments during the slide show regarding the various cities and the unique culture which dates back to the Mayas.

Stampleman added, "Both men and women weave colorful cloth for their clothing in Guatemala. Each town has their own patterns so one can recognize where the person was born." The photo depicts clothing from San Antonio, Aguas Caliente. She added, "It's always a lot of fun dressing up the residents and staff after the slide show!"

The Allendale Community for Mature Living campus-of-care includes The Atrium independent living residence, Carlton Court assisted living and the Allendale Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center. For more information on The Atrium or any of the other Allendale Community residences, please call 201-825-0660 or visit www.allendalecommunity.com. The Allendale Community for Mature Living is located at 85 Harreton Road, off Route 17 South, in Allendale, New Jersey.