Commun ty Matters Newton Presbyterian Manor
January 2018
Chaplains corner By Jerroll Martens, chaplain Newton Presbyterian Manor
“….for seasons, and for days, and years.” Genesis 1:14 Time, as we think of it, began on the fourth day of creation. For us, another year has passed and a new one lies ahead. Plans will be made for daily life, special occasions and holidays. The season will largely drive the decision for many events, such as vacations and agricultural matters. Isn’t it wonderful that God has such an orderly universe? God reminds us of time. Solomon speaks to us of such things as a time to be born and a time to die, a time of war and a time of peace, and all the seasons of life. In a sense, time does not pass by. Rather we pass through time. As we do so, time has a way of dimming the eye, diminishing the hearing, slowing the step, bending our bodies and wrinkling our face. God has plans for time. In the fullness of time, Jesus came. He reminds us that our life is very short, “like a vapor that appears for a time.” Today is the right time to accept God’s wonderful forgiveness and benefit through eternity. Time is God’s gift to us here on earth. Let’s use it for God’s glory.
Eleanore Myers shows off a few of the hundreds of origami boxes she has made.
Ancient art of relaxation Resident makes hundreds of origami boxes Eleanore Myers is constantly on the go. We see her everywhere on campus — chairing our Community Assembly, leading the women’s Bible study, and volunteering her time and talents wherever she is needed. It’s hard to picture Eleanore sitting still, but she makes sure to fit some downtime in among all the activity. Eleanore likes to fold origami boxes. Made of several sheets of richly patterned paper, the boxes have become her favorite way to unwind after her busiest days. “If I feel really stressed out, or I’m working on a Bible study and I get really into that, I get so wound up that I’m afraid I’ll not be able to ORIGAMI, continued on page 2
ORIGAMI, continued from page 1
sleep,” Eleanore said. “I just sit down, turn on some music and make a box. It is just a wonderful way to relax.” We love seeing the many hobbies our residents enjoy — sometimes a lifelong pastime, sometimes a new discovery. We have card makers, quilters, woodworkers, painters, crafters and collectors, as well as those who love movies, puzzles and games. We have dog lovers and car lovers and sports lovers. Some, Eleanore included, volunteer their time as their hobby. It’s a gift to turn to an activity that brings you joy.
Community Matters
is published monthly for residents and friends of Newton Presbyterian Manor by Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America Inc., a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Learn more at PresbyterianManors.org. Marc Kessinger, executive director Noelle Dickinson, marketing director Melinda Ebersole, activity director To submit or suggest articles for this publication, contact Noelle at ndickinson@pmma.org. Telephone: 316-283-5400 Fax: 316-284-5900 Address: 1200 E. Seventh, Newton, KS 67114-2862 Our mission: We provide quality senior services guided by Christian values. NewtonPresbyterianManor.org
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Community Matters January 2018
In the three years since she learned the technique, Eleanore estimates she has made hundreds of the eightsided boxes. They are about six inches across, with a lid. The box and the lid each take eight pieces of 6-inch square paper, folded precisely and secured by one brad each – no glue required. She can make a box in about an hour, almost anywhere.
covers the cost of her supplies, but she also gives many away. Eleanore greets new residents with a handmade origami box filled with mints or candy, and she takes some to people when they’re sick. They also make perfect gift card holders.
“I’ve done many hobbies in my life, and this is least expensive, as far as I’m concerned,” she said. “My time That wasn’t always the case.Eleanore making them is something I have first learned origami from her sister- benefited from. We all need to keep in-law, who learned from a Japanese busy and, really, I am just impressed, woman in Omaha, where Eleanore’s living here so long, seeing people brother and sister-in-law live. Her active and living good productive sister-in-law gave her a box as a gift. lives.” Later, she came to visit Eleanore Eleanore still has the first box she at Newton Presbyterian Manor. made. It’s where she keeps her Eleanore decided to turn the craft Christmas jewelry. Every December, into a fun community activity. she pulls the box from the drawer. “There were 13 ladies here. She “It’s fun to get it out and see how taught us in the sunroom,” she said. I’ve improved.” It took them each about four hours Is there a hobby you used to do, or to complete one box. Since then, something you’ve always wanted Eleanore has taken on the teacher’s role and occasionally will give a class to learn? Take Eleanore’s lead and have the courage to try something for a small group of residents. new. It just might become your new She sells her boxes for $2, which favorite thing.
Meet our human resource director Emily Trask, human resource director, began working at Newton Presbyterian Manor in October. We asked her to share a little about herself in her own words: “My husband and I celebrated our 10th wedding anniversary this July. We met while working at Food4Less when we were 17. I have two daughters: Hailey, 10, and Calli, 7. They keep me on my toes and very busy.
“We are big animal lovers. We have three dogs and two cats. I was raised in Wichita and have lived Emily Trask here most of my life. I have a very large family with seven siblings. EMILY, continued on page 5 Like us on Facebook
Emerald Awards Program recognition
Newton Presbyterian Manor honored for achievements Newton Presbyterian Manor received a certificate of recognition from Presbyterian Manors of MidAmerica for reaching goals in fiscal year 2017, covering the months of July 1, 2016, through June 30, 2017. The recognition came through PMMA’s new Emerald Awards Program, designed to encourage its 17 locations and two hospices to achieve high levels of resident and employee satisfaction, meet financial goals, build philanthropic support for the organization’s mission and meet marketing goals. There are 11 areas measured for the Emerald Awards. To receive an emerald, a community has to meet its goals in all 11 areas. Certificates of recognition were given out to communities that reached their goals in one or more category.
Marc Kessinger, executive director of Newton Presbyterian Manor, with Bruce Shogren, left, president and CEO of PMMA, and Bill Taylor, right, COO of PMMA.
Newton was recognized for achieving a five-star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and for meeting financial performance and safety goals.
commitment to the mission of PMMA of providing quality senior services guided by Christian values,” said Bruce Shogren, chief executive officer for PMMA.
“This recognition is a visible sign of Newton Presbyterian Manor’s
Presbyterian Manors of MidAmerica has been providing quality
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senior services guided by Christian values in Kansas and Missouri for more than 65 years. For more information about Newton Presbyterian Manor, contact Marketing Director Noelle Dickinson at 316-283-5400 or ndickinson@pmma.org.
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Bravo of the Month Bravo of the Month goes to Darla Entz in dining services for demonstrating leadership and service.
Tara Stewart writes, “Every holiday, Darla decorates the household tables, and she also consistently bakes and shares muffins, going the extra mile to put smiles on the residents’ faces. It’s not just that she
does this, but that she pays for all of it out of her own pocket. “I want to make sure everyone recognizes her, for in today’s times, it’s not always easy to be able to do this. She puts residents’ happiness first. We are thankful for her.” Thank you for sharing your heart, Darla!
Darla Entz accepting her Bravo of the Month award.
Residents relished Christmas celebrations
Below: A lovely dinner at Cheddar’s and a Christmas light tour of Wichita kicked off the season for a group of Presbyterian Manor neighbors and friends. Many events and trips were held throughout the month of December.
Photos above: The Tuesday morning men’s and women’s Bible studies celebrated the Christmas season together with a coffee and program. Carols, decorations, special music and refreshments were all prepared and led by volunteers from the classes. Chaplain Jerroll Martens shared a devotional about Job’s search for the Daysman who would reconcile him with God.
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Community Matters January 2018
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EMILY, continued from page 2
“My favorite season is summer. I feel like this is a great time to hang out, barbecue and have fun with friends and family. Our family enjoys swimming, fishing, camping and just about anything outdoors. My family and friends would say I have a shopping problem, especially with shoes. “We love college football. My favorite team is the University of Oklahoma Sooners. “My favorite holiday is Christmas. Being with family and giving back
to others just makes everyone more cheerful, and you realize how blessed you are. I really enjoy any time I get to spend with my family, no matter what it may be. “I have been in the health care industry for eight years. Starting as a CNA, then working in medical records, central supply, social services and now human resources.
daily interaction with residents, their families and having that close relationship with co-workers. “When I set out to look for a new position, PMMA caught my eye because of its mission statement, ‘to provide quality senior services guided by Christian values.’
“I left health care for two years to work for Wichita Public Schools, and while I enjoyed my work, I always felt something was missing.
“When I came to Newton for my interview, I was welcomed so warmly by the management team and a resident that I felt right at home. I chose PMMA because it aligns with my love to help others.”
“What I realized is that I missed the
Welcome to the family, Emily!
Upcoming events Tuesday, January 16, 9:30 a.m. – Men’s and women’s Bible studies will start again, with the men studying together in the library while the women’s group meets in the chapel to begin their study of Isaiah. At least half of our attendees are not from our campus, so please invite your friends and family. Monday/Wednesday/Friday at 9:30 a.m. – Although the coffee pot is always on in the main dining room, and tea, hot chocolate, cappuccino and ice cream are always available, neighbors and friends gather three mornings a week for coffee and conversation. You are welcome! Wednesday, January 24, 2 p.m. – Paint and Sip class taught by Studio B of North Newton. Come have a glass of wine or a non-alcoholic beverage and take a painting class. See Melinda Ebersole to RSVP or ask questions at mebersole@pmma.org or 316-283-5400. Friday, March 9 – Deadline for entries for Art is Ageless exhibit. Call Noelle Dickinson at 316-2835400 or check out ArtisAgeless.org.
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Newton Presbyterian Manor 1200 E. Seventh Newton, KS 67114-2862 Return Service Requested
Tell about your history We will feature women’s history in an upcoming issue of Community Matters. We want to know about the achievements of the women who live on our campuses. If you were among the first women in the workforce or elected office, or if you just want to tell the world what you love about your senior living community, we want to share the story. Contact Noelle Dickinson, marketing director, and your story could be featured in an upcoming edition of Community Matters.
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Community Matters January 2018
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