Wartburg Hosts 3 Local Authors At Literary Meeting Of The Minds

MOUNT VERNON, NY — Wartburg hosted three local authors at a Book and Author Reception held in the Berkemeier Living Center, Wartburg’s new Alzheimer’s and Dementia care facility.

Dr. Emily Bloom, Victoria Brooking and Dr. Concetta M. Tomaino each spoke about their connection to Wartburg, talked about their books, read excerpts and answered questions for those gathered.

Dr. Emily Bloom, a Sarah Lawrence College Public Humanities Fellow and faculty member, is collaborating with Wartburg in Mount Vernon to connect undergraduates and seniors in a series of conversations about objects, memories, and the things that matter to us all.

Her book, "I Cannot Control Everything Forever," is a memoir that explores the author’s journey towards and through motherhood. Bloom writes that the path that has become laden with data and medical technology as they navigated the care of a child with special needs.

"Even if this book is not about my time at Wartburg, much of what I have learned here about care and humanity has infused the pages of this book," Bloom said. "I am so proud to have Wartburg's name appear on the dust jacket."

Author Victoria Brooking’s mother spent her final years at Wartburg.

"It was wonderful to be part of this literary event, launching the Berkemeier Living Center into its inaugural year." Brooking said. "Her book, 'Garden of Forget me Nots,' is a portrayal of her mother’s decline into the world of dementia and Alzheimer’s and her family’s story of loss, hope and coming to terms with one's mortality."

Founder and Executive Director of the Institute of Music and Neurologic Function, Dr. Concetta M. Tomaino, also shared her book "Music Has Power in Senior Wellness and Healthcare."

Tomaino, a pioneer in the field of music therapy, shares more than 40 years of clinical research experience in her book. The book has been praised for "offering a comprehensive guide to music therapy for better, more fulfilling caregiving across all senior health care settings."

"It is always a pleasure to speak to others about music and health," Tomaino said. "I’m especially grateful to be part of an organization that encourages shared learning and creativity."

Wartburg President, David J. Gentner said that the reception was more than just a learning opportunity — it was an experience that showed just how many lives the Wartburg community has touched.

"What a pleasure it was to meet three special authors and to learn more about their relationship with our organization," Gentner. "The residents, staff and those in attendance had a meaningful and fun experience."