The walking paths and scenic courtyards set on 52 lush acres just minutes from the shores of Lake Michigan provide endless inspiration for residents at Newcastle Place. Located in Mequon, Wisconsin, just north of Milwaukee, Newcastle Place is a senior living community that values artistic pursuits of all kinds. In fact, the community encourages involvement in the arts and collaborates with residents who offer unique ideas for experiences surrounding the arts and other activities.
From Nature and Photography Good Things Grow
Don Cohen, a four-year resident of Newcastle Place, is a retired architectural engineer with a penchant for the great outdoors. Don spent many years volunteering at nature centers and leading outdoor scouting activities. Also, an avid photographer, Don has been able to apply his unique artistic talents to complement the activities at Newcastle Place. So much so actually, that some of his nature photos hang in the halls of the community.
Don serves as co-editor of the community’s monthly newsletter, The Courier, and regularly provides photographs of residents participating in various community activities to each edition. He also co-serves on the welcoming committee.
“We meet with new residents or those who are considering moving here and have lunch or dinner with them. We interview and do a bio for those that decide to call Newcastle Place home, and I’ll take their picture for The Courier. We’re always looking for ways to make new residents feel like part of our family,” says Don.
Don’s personal interest in photography has sparked a long-running lecture series at Newcastle Place, with each speaker covering topics relevant to their personal expertise.
Recent lectures include a realtor talking about the changes happening in the city, a psychologist, international graduate students talking about their home countries, and even residents who spoke about their experiences as Prisoners of War.
A City Transformed
Don not only translated his love of photography to his life at Newcastle Place, but he also shared his expertise and love of architecture with fellow residents whose response was overwhelming.
“Because I played a role in the architectural and engineering work in Milwaukee starting back in the 1950s, and because the city’s landscape has changed so drastically since I retired, I decided to set up bus tours for residents at Newcastle Place. It was marvelous for all of us to see how the character of the city and the social atmosphere has changed,” says Don.
Residents come to the community with unique talents, experiences, and wisdom to share. Don was able to take elements of his past and translate them to enhance the lives of his new neighbors, and many other Newcastle Place residents have enjoyed the talents of Don and residents like him.
“My goal in living here, as long as I’m able to, is to bring a smile – some happiness – into someone’s life every day,” says Don.
Newcastle Place works to bring the arts in every form to its residents whether it be education or for pure enjoyment. To learn more about the programs and activities at Newcastle Place, call 262-421-9050.
