2023 Spring Live More

Live More

SPRING 2023

STEWARDING CEDAR COMMUNITY’S FACILITIES FOR THE FUTURE

sp C rin om g in of g 20 24 !

Signature Living Awaits

Cedar Community announces a new definition of distinction for adults 55 and better–The Lofts at Cedar Lake. Maintenance-free, private residences ranging in size from 1,100 to 2,000 square feet offer the opportunity to enjoy, explore, and embrace your best life.

Located on Cedar Community’s 245-acre wooded campus, the independent living residences offer secluded, lake country living within minutes of shopping, fine dining, entertainment, cultural events, an award-winning farmer’s market, and so much more!

The Lofts at Cedar Lake are nestled in the natural beauty of the Kettle Moraine—surrounded by lakes and prairies, hiking trails, and forests—all providing a picturesque landscape. Enjoy the beauty of the changing seasons and the wildlife that abounds.

Every detail, design, and interior finish is selected to provide comfort, peace, and spaciousness.

Amenities included: · Outdoor green space, trails, and lake access · Spacious design and wooded views · Exercise atrium · Lounge and gathering spaces · Pet friendly · Secure, private storage · Indoor parking garages

Preconstruction benefits are available for a limited time only!

Abby 262.338.4617

West Bend, WI | cedarcommunity.org

Renderings provided by EUA

Be the first to discover lake living at its finest by scheduling a tour today.

Live More featuring...

Guiding principles and priorities: TEAM Update from CEO Nicole Pretre | 4–5

From the editor’s desk Message from our chief administrative officer | 6 785 opportunities to holistic wellbeing Message from our vice president of spiritual care and wellbeing | 8–9 Resident profile Life on the farm with Louise Bonlender | 10–13 Time, talents, and treasures Art therapy: An exploration of emotions | 14–15 Stewarding Cedar Community’s facilities for the future Planning and prevention | 16–19 News you can use Updates and more! | 20–21

Enjoy, explore, and embrace your best life!

Live More is published for the neighbors of Cedar Community. If you would like to add a neighbor’s name to our mailing list, please contact us at 262.338.2819.

To view Live More online, visit cedarcommunity.org/ live-more-magazine/.

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Sarah Malchow

A life of service An interview with Orville Larsen | 22–23

MANAGING EDITOR Carrie Sturn

Volunteer highlight Join hundreds of volunteers who share time and talents at Cedar Community | 24–25

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Cyndi Frohmader

Making a move—our unwavering decision Meet Marv and Debbie Wolf | 26–27 Hospice team provides care and compassion Resident, Barb Kasper, shares her journey | 28 2022 Sheboygan County 4-H Alumni Association Award Henry Umstadt receives lifetime achievement award | 29 Feed your soul at Cedar Valley A message from Cedar Valley UCCI | 30 Spring brings new life and renewed beauty Message from our director of philanthropy | 31

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There will be a lot of exciting endeavors in the months to come— and you won’t want to miss out.

ON THE COVER Members of the facility services team keep a watchful eye on buildings and systems.

OUR MISSION To model Jesus’ love by creating life-enhancing relationships, services, and environments.

Guiding principles and priorities: TEAM

In each issue of Live More, we celebrate the many individuals who are so incredibly important to the amazing environments, amenities, and healthcare services we provide at Cedar Community. We are grateful for the talents, compassion, and dedication shown by our volunteers, residents, community and business partners, and donors. However, today, I want to talk about our team.

I was recently speaking with a resident who volunteers in several areas around our various campuses, and they commented how amazed they were at the size and scope of our operations and services. We don’t often tout this fact, but Cedar Community is the largest senior living and healthcare organization in Southeastern Wisconsin, and the second largest in the state. According to LeadingAge, we are the 133rd largest nonprofit provider in the United States— serving more than 900 residents across our campuses in Washington and Sheboygan counties. This work takes a tremendous number of people including: ∙ front-line team members who are in our licensed care areas providing nursing and dining support 24 hours a day, seven day a week, 365 days a year; ∙ facility service and grounds team members who are responsible for millions of square feet of buildings and more than 550 acres of land; ∙ business office, administration, business services, and professional teams who handle financial, regulatory, quality, and human resource programs and services; ∙ our business partners who provide key support services across all of our campuses; and ∙ our executive council members who provide steady leadership to their teams.

Nicole Pretre Chief Executive Officer

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With this in mind, there is no doubt that our most pressing challenge as an organization is recruiting and retaining a quality workforce. The term ‘crisis’ is not an exaggeration, especially in healthcare. We’ve come to understand that this is not a short-term predicament of people just not wanting to work—it is a population problem. Our overall population has been in decline since the year 2000, and continues to shrink. There are simply not enough people to fill job openings.

With 10,000 adults turning 65 every day—a trend that will continue over the next 20 years—the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the senior living industry will need to fill an additional 2.5 million new job openings by 2040. And like every other senior care organization, Cedar Community is already facing these challenges today.

While we are being incredibly intentional in our efforts to be a supportive and exceptional workplace of choice, the impact of this workforce reality continues to be felt across the organization.

The most significant impact is that we must balance the number of new residents we can bring into our community based on the number of team members we have available to work our three shifts—especially in our licensed healthcare areas. As resident safety is paramount, we cannot and will not bring in more residents than we can safely care for. That, in turn, impacts our revenue, while labor costs (agency and pool staff, and overtime expenses) continue to be higher than normal. Couple this with historic inflation impacting our food and supply expenses, and this creates a very challenging environment for all.

We are working diligently to recruit and retain team members—employing creative and out-of-the-box strategies to do so. We are reaching out in person and virtually to new audiences through new venues to find potential employees. We are leveraging social media more than ever, and developing partnerships with high schools, technical colleges, and traditional universities. We are offering flexibility, incentives, and unique benefits that appeal to a younger generation— including optional pet insurance! We also provide an on-site medical clinic for team members and their immediate family members to help them avoid the high cost of medical care.

While much of this may sound daunting, I am proud that our team members truly are the heart of Cedar Community. Because of their tireless efforts, we continue to shine as a best-in-class, five-star Medicare rated organization. The Cedar Lake Health and Rehabilitation Center has been named to the U.S. News & World Report “Best Nursing Homes” for the fifth consecutive year, putting us in the top 15 percent of all nursing homes considered high performing nationwide! Skilled nursing and rehabilitation, along with our assisted living and home health and hospice programs, continue to consistently have citationfree health surveys from the State of Wisconsin.

Independent living continues to be recognized nationally as top-of-class in customer service and satisfaction by third-party reviewers including Pinnacle Quality Insight and U.S. News & World Report.

While we focus a great deal on wellbeing for our residents, we must also focus on mental health and wellbeing for our team members. We recognize that many are working long hours—taking overtime, extra shifts, and juggling the responsibility of family and children at the same time. We have support programs that offer counseling, chaplains on staff, and a meditation app available for team members and their families. We have invested in training and education programs for both our clinical teams and our leaders and managers. We are working to develop professional, sustainable career paths for those who want to advance at Cedar Community with scholarship programs and the development of short- and longterm succession planning. We are also continually improving technology for both residents and team members, including enhancing internet services, cellular services, implementing software programs to enhance productivity and resident engagement, and leveraging communications platforms that help enhance our ability to share information across multiple channels.

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As we celebrate our successes and the incredible growth and progress in our future, I want to share my heartfelt gratitude for every single individual who comes to work each day at Cedar Community. Our team rises to the challenge—through every kind of crazy weather, through a worldwide pandemic, through trying economic times, and through the personal challenges they face. Thank you, champions, for being the foundational rock which makes it possible for us to provide professional, compassionate, and unparalleled care and services. You truly do make us a community.

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From the editor’s desk Over the years, stars have been immortalized in song, in paintings, in literature, and in lore. Since time began, humankind has navigated by the stars—using these far-off heavenly bodies to plot journeys over land, sea, and air.

Sarah J. Malchow, CFRE Chief Administrative Officer

As I mentioned in this year’s annual report (Winter 2023 edition), Cedar Community’s Board of Directors and Executive Council members recently established new guiding principles and priorities. These are more than statements about community, team member, quality, and responsibility—they represent a very public commitment to how we will hold ourselves accountable in all facets of our operations and mission. They are—in short—our north star, helping us navigate Cedar Community’s journey as a mission-driven entity.

You are navigating a journey, too.

Life’s journey.

In each and every edition, it will be our pleasure to share some of the interesting and inspiring journeys and highlights of Cedar Community residents, friends, neighbors, and team members; our commitment to quality and exceptionalism; and our focus on responsibility and stewardship.

Some highlights in this issue: ∙ Decorated U.S. Army veteran and independent living resident, Orville Larsen, shares reflections on his life of service. “Everything was dangerous and war is a bad idea.” ∙ Independent living residents Marv and Debbie Wolf come full circle— returning to Cedar Community with retirement in full swing. Yard work: optional. Glamping: mandatory. ∙ Cedar Community’s facility services team supports day-to-day operations and strategically sets the stage for the future. Hard hats and spreadsheets required. ∙ The story of assisted living resident Louise Bonlender’s journey includes acres of farmland and generations of family. And a piglet named Arnold.

It is our hope that you are uplifted, inspired, and encouraged on your own journey—whatever that may be.

May the road rise up to meet you, my friend.

MISSION

To model Jesus’ love by creating life-enhancing relationships, services, and environments.

GUIDING PRINCIPLES AND PRIORITIES

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SPRING 2022 We| do this by2023 building respectful

AL QU ITY

We nurture a culture of purpose, excellence, and belonging.

We challenge ourselves to be exceptional in everything we do.

We do this by respecting,

We do this by delivering

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We create a sense of community where residents, families, and partners can thrive with purpose, dignity, and joy.

TEAM

ONSIBILI P T ES

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We steward our resources wisely.

cedarcommunity.org We do this by honoring our

Our team members are the champions of our community.

Join our Cedar Community family!

Our team members are the champions and heart of our community! We offer more than a paycheck; we offer opportunities for growth and development, while making a difference in someone’s life—every day!

Be a champion!

We offer excellent benefits, including: · Competitive wages · Annual wage increases · Recognition and rewards programs

Contact Samantha Arndt, senior human resources specialist, to learn more or request a job shadow at 262.306.4214!

· Tuition reimbursement · Advancement opportunities · Team building, leadership, and training programs · Flexible schedules

To apply online, visit our careers page at cedarcommunity.org.

· Shift differentials · 401k plan/match · Referral bonuses · On-site clinic for team members and their immediate family members · On-site pharmacy

Learn more about our career growth opportunities and discover your unlimited potential. cedarcommunity.org

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BY: Julie Jennings Vice President of Spiritual Care and Wellbeing

Stress is a natural and normal part of life; but, all of us have our limits.

May each of us find the resources we need and use the supports available to manage the stressors we face.

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Helpful strategies for stress relief:

∙ Exercise–even a short walk can boost your mood. ∙ At the end of each day, note your daily accomplishments—not what you didn’t get done. ∙ Set short-term goals to help you feel more in control of the moment and long-term tasks. ∙ Consider talking to a therapist or your healthcare provider about your worries.

cedarcommunity.org

I have been thinking a lot about stress, lately. All of us experience stress in our lives—some more than others, and some at certain times more than other times.

Some of us display our stress in the deepening furrows across our brows or in the tone we take with others. Some of us experience stress as an opening pit or gnawing in our bellies, or in the tightening of muscles along our spines or across our shoulders.

Thanks to a couple of decades of more focused study and clinical research, we know a good deal about stress—what it is and what prolonged experiences of it can do to our overall health and wellbeing. We know that the stress we feel is a state of physical, mental, or emotional strain or tension, and that it comes about during adverse or very demanding circumstances. Chronic stress can cause cardiovascular or respiratory issues, exacerbate existing health conditions, and contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental and emotional symptoms.

Daily stress prevention tips:

Over the last few months and for several months yet to come, the noise and disruptions of our ongoing campus renovations may be a source of stress for residents and team members who must endure them. The continued unpredictability of supply chains and staffing can be stressful to the individuals tasked with keeping the project on schedule.

Seeing the stripped-down bones of our building—the beams and trusses and columns and joists which have stood now for many decades, bearing the weight of roofs and ceilings, floors and walls, people and the furnishings we bring to add life and care to rooms and halls, and the inevitable snow and ice and wind and rain—has me recalling my engineering education and practice and thinking about stress in a different way.

Mechanically and structurally speaking, stress is simply pressure or tension exerted on a material object. The strength of those objects is a measure of their resistance to that stress.

Strength determines the quantities and spacings of objects that will bear the stress and carry the load of the structures around them. These objects—the major beams and trusses and columns and joists, as well as the minor studs and frames—are designed for stress. In fact, they are designed, at least in part, for the chronic stress of bearing up under consistent pressure.

Human beings are not designed for this.

It is true our incredible human bodies are designed to respond to occasional stress in ways that better equip us to cope with the present demand. Experiencing stress can increase our alertness and cognitive performance, increase our immunity and resilience, even improve our learning and memory function. But continued activation of our stress response causes wear and tear on our entire beings—body, mind, and spirit.

At Cedar Community, we understand that stress is real, and we offer a variety of opportunities to support holistic wellbeing in the midst of everyday and more extreme stressors. Our clinical teams are alert to signs of stress and distress. Our wellbeing team offers exercise, nutrition, and other self-care classes and activities. Our life enrichment team provides daily programs to foster fellowship and social connection, cognitive engagement, and emotional expression. Our spiritual care team facilitates individual and group spiritual practice and connection to a higher power. We support our teams through a host of benefits targeting mental, physical, and emotional health and wellness.

∙ Try relaxation activities, such as meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, and muscle relaxation.

∙ Accept that you can’t control everything.

Find ways to let go of worry about situations you cannot change.

∙ Take good care of your body each day by eating right, exercising, and getting enough sleep.

∙ Learn to say “no” to additional responsibilities when you are too busy or stressed.

∙ Stay positive and practice gratitude, acknowledging the good parts of your day or life.

∙ Stay connected with people who keep you calm, make you happy, provide emotional support, and help you with practical things.

Adapted from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/11874-stress

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Resident profile:

Life on the farm with Louise Bonlender BY: Gladys Sachse Resident, Cedar Community Independent Living

Louise was born and raised on a farm in the Town of Ashford—the second oldest of eleven siblings. Her family has a long tradition of farming—which, happily, continues with today’s generation. As one of the oldest on a large family farm, Louise worked long hours and had little time away from chores.

As a young girl, Louise helped with milking about 30 cows. At threshing time, neighbors would help each other harvest crops, which meant the workers were served big meals involving a lot of cooking—the girls helped in the kitchen and served food. Louise learned to bake pies at age 11. She recalls when she was 14 years old, she and her 13-year-old sister were asked to do the milking while her dad and brothers were helping other neighbors with their threshing. The girls couldn’t lift the machines, so they milked the 30 cows by hand. Louise thinks she was her dad’s favorite, as he would ask her to go with him walking in the woods and in springtime look for morel mushrooms.

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Louise attended high school up to ninth grade when her mother became ill and she was needed at home. In years following, she got her high school diploma by going to night school. She said her mother insisted that the house be kept spic and span clean. Louise and her sisters were also often called upon to help a relative or neighbor for several weeks after a new baby was born. On Saturdays, her brothers invited the neighboring Bonlender brothers to their house to watch wrestling on TV. Her husband to be, Joe Bonlender, was one of them. Their farms adjoined over the hill at the back fence. Louise and her brothers and sisters often went dancing at Gonrings on Cedar Lake. The Bonlender brothers did, too. One evening, Joe asked if he could drive her home.

They dated for several years and were married on September 1, 1953. Initially, they lived with Joe’s parents while sharing the farm because their income was very limited. For a time, Louise also worked at Amity Leather in West Bend.

Louise and Joe were blessed with nine children—five girls and four boys, (the fourth and fifth babies were twins). They have 29 grandchildren and, soon to be born, the 37th great-grandchild. Louise says she always loved having children around her. Each of their families helped each other with farm chores and milking.

Occasionally, their oldest sons would run the farm so they could get away. One year, after the crops were in and during a quieter time of the season, Joe and Louise went to Canada for a week of fishing. Louise says she and Joe did everything together. They enjoyed playing Sheepshead with friends, and were actively involved with their church.

The family raised a big vegetable garden and Louise canned everything she could. They raised their own meat, made sausages, and fresh eggs came from their chickens. Louise also loved to sew, doing that at night after the children were in bed. When their oldest son was three, she made him a coat and snow pants from her husband’s old overcoat. She also sewed many of the other children’s clothes. She made a wedding quilt for each of her children—hand quilted with help from the neighbor ladies’ quilting bee. One Christmas she made each of her (then 16) grandchildren a quilt.

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Eventually, she and Joe owned two farms—milking cows in both places. They also raised beef cattle, chickens, ducks, geese, and pigs. Louise remembers a tiny pet piglet they named Arnold that they brought into the house.

The children enjoyed playing with Arnold. They kept him under the sink in a box with a ticking clock. She fed Arnold a bottle every three hours. It was a sad day when he was big enough and had to be put in the barn with the rest of the litter.

After 50 years of marriage, Joe and Louise built a new house on the farm near the pond and sold the remaining two farms to two of their sons. Their sons have grown the farms to several thousand acres, with additional rented land for raising crops. They also raise beef cattle. The 2,200 to 2,400 dairy cows are milked 50 at a time in a state-ofthe-art, fully automated circular milking parlor. She says the cows absolutely love it! The cows walk in the robotic milking machine, it gives them a quick wash, attaches the pump to the utters, and milks them. By the time the cows have made it around the circular parlor, the milking is done! Today, her son’s farms employ 35 workers. Many of her children and grandchildren also help on the farm— especially in the summer. The girls cook meals for the workers and take food out to them in the fields. Louise admits her children are unbelievable—they’re so kind and helpful to her, each other, and the neighbors.

Nearing retirement, Louise trained to be a reflexologist and also sold vitamin supplements. She planned seminars and put out a monthly newsletter for the products she sold—building a good business. Louise and Joe went on nine cruises that she earned through sales. They also traveled to London, Africa, and Hawaii twice.

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In later years, Joe developed health problems and was in and out of assisted living care at another facility. The family was not happy with the care he was receiving. They heard about Cedar Community, toured, and found the care here was what they wanted for their dad. Joe and Louise moved to Cedar Community’s assisted living in 2018. They were so pleased with the care he received. Joe passed away in June of 2022. Louise continues to keep active, attends activities, and has made many new friends.

She is working on writing a book about their family history and life on the farm. Louise appreciates the good care, attentiveness, and help she receives at Cedar Community.

Her apartment is spacious and is often filled with laughter during many family visits.

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Time, talents, and treasures: Art therapy | An exploration of emotions Jenna Schmaelzle, MSAT, ATR, is Cedar Community’s art therapist. She discovered the burgeoning field of art therapy while studying fine art at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She also had an interest in psychology—the two easily went hand-in-hand through art therapy. Jenna earned a bachelor’s degree in fine art from Madison and a master’s in art therapy from Mount Mary. She is a credentialed art therapist which requires a master’s degree, 1,000 hours of supervised work experience, references, and recommendations to become registered through the Art Therapy Credentials Board.

Art Studio Group

Independent living residents on the Cedar Lake Campus are learning new art mediums, while also perfecting some of their own skills. The new Art Studio Group already has 12 members and meets on the first and third Wednesday of the month at 2 p.m. in the art studio on the ground floor of the Cedar Lake Health and Rehabilitation Center, near Carport AB in the back of the building. The group is led by Jan Braby and Carol Davidson and offers learning opportunities, as well as time to work on your own projects.

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Jenna’s 25 years of experience includes working with hospice, memory care, children and adults with special needs, persons afflicted with addiction/substance abuse, and owning a fine arts/decorative painting business. As a substance abuse counselor, she helped people learn new coping and self-expression skills—how to verbalize on paper what was going through their minds through art therapy. “Oftentimes, they get past the defensiveness. The artwork is often more honest than what people will tell you. It’s kind of a subconscious process,” says Jenna. A big part of her training is knowing the questions to ask that help people learn more about themselves through their art.

There is increasing evidence that art therapy enhances brain function by impacting brain wave patterns, emotions, the nervous system, and raising serotonin levels. Some of the many benefits of art therapy can include: ∙ Reduced stress and depression

Working with older adults has always been a passion for Jenna. “I was inspired by my grandma who was in assisted living. I often volunteered— instructing paint and sips where she lived.” Jenna is excited to see senior organizations hiring art therapists and the field opening up more. “At Cedar Community, we are committed to supporting holistic wellbeing. Art therapy effectively crosses multiple dimensions of wellbeing—helping residents connect thoughts and feelings while promoting creative expressions that tap into individual spirituality. We are fortunate to have Jenna on our team, and we are grateful for the impact her considerable gifts are having on the lives of people living on our campuses and receiving services from us,” says Julie Jennings, vice president of spiritual care and wellbeing.

∙ Reduced pain

∙ Grief support ∙ Improved brain function and memory ∙ Increased social interaction ∙ Enhanced motor skills ∙ Greater self-expression ∙ Emotional growth and support

At Cedar Community, Jenna has been facilitating groups in assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing care, hospice, and hosting open studio time for independent living residents. She also offers one-on-one sessions for residents who prefer a more intimate setting. “I like to introduce residents to a variety of media to see what really clicks,” says Jenna. “A lot of people are afraid of creative activities and many feel they are not artists and are going to be critiqued.”

One introductory medium that she finds helpful is creating mandala circles–a form of art therapy meant to relieve stress and increase focus, while exercising the brain and expressing creativity. Starting the creative process within the boundaries of a circle can be less intimidating than starting with a blank piece of paper. Jenna notes, “People tend to feel more creative with this type of art therapy, it reduces anxiety and keeps them focused in the moment.” Studies have shown it can also help create new connections in the brain.

The aging population is not immune from the challenges of dealing with loneliness, depression, and boredom. They may also be focusing on the limitations of their minds and bodies as they age. Art therapy helps people to feel comfortable learning and trying new things. It can also help when dealing with loss, change (like moving and downsizing), pain and illness, memory, vision and hearing loss, or making connections with new people. Group art therapy also helps people work on their socialization skills.

Another process that Jenna has introduced involves creating a peaceful collage, in which residents choose images out of magazines that conjure peaceful feelings.

“As I work on this project with residents, we talk about things that have brought them peace in the past—evoking those long-term memories,” says Jenna.

Jenna is happy to share in their experiences. “Residents are getting more comfortable with being creative and are excited to participate. I enjoy being able to help them express their emotions,” says Jenna.

cover story

“ My team is awesome and when I need them—even if it’s 2 a.m. when something goes awry— they all show up!

Todd Miller, FMP Vice President of Facility Services

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STEWARDING CEDAR COMMUNITY’S FACILITIES FOR THE FUTURE Cedar Community’s Cedar Lake Campus repositioning project is moving along under the watchful eye of Todd Miller, FMP, vice president of facility services. As we continue to serve our current residents, we have a vision to provide for future generations. The Willows at Cedar Lake provides independent living plus for those living independently, but with add-on services available, if needed—allowing seniors to age in place. The Lofts at Cedar Lake will provide signature living for those wanting more spacious apartments ranging in size from 1,100 to 2,000 square feet. Also, in the scope of work are renovations in our rehabilitation spaces, main reception, and Cedar Lake Café.

The responsibility for project oversight aligns well with Todd’s broad professional background. His work experience includes construction, project management, facilities, and real estate development of multi-million-dollar homes, condominiums, and apartments. He holds several licenses and certifications including State of Wisconsin home inspector, professional environmental inspector, indoor air quality consultant, HAZMAT certified, high- and lowpressure boiler, and aquatic facility operator.

Todd’s background includes director of facility services at University School of Milwaukee, where he supervised all aspects and personnel in the planning, maintenance, and operations of the campus. Additionally, he spearheaded facilities planning and maintenance improvement, which included long-range planning, cost analysis of construction projects, and procedural efficiencies. He also worked locally at the Kettle Moraine YMCA and West Bend Clinic in similar capacities. Todd has extensive experience in construction, having owned his own remodeling and restoration company for 25 years. He began his career at Cedar Community in 2019.

At Cedar Community, Todd is responsible for the overall management and supervision of the facility services team.

When he arrived, there was not a preventative maintenance plan in place. Maintenance activities were reactive— running equipment and systems until they were inoperable, then replacing them. “That is actually how a lot of facilities ran in the 60s and 70s because replacing equipment didn’t cost as much as it does today. Also, labor wasn’t as expensive then,” notes Todd. “With the cost of equipment and technical labor costs being so high today, there needs to be a balance of putting preventative maintenance into a machine, until we are at that curve of letting it fail, and planning financially for its replacement.”

OPPOSITE PAGE, COUNTER CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT

Tom Riggert, Todd Miller, Jesse Mosca, Cheri Manthei, and welcoming Jodie Roden to the team.

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Initially, he intended to assess everything himself. He then realized it could be a 10-year process if he didn’t hire outside contractors to help with the assessments. They looked at every piece of equipment at Cedar Community and quickly determined there was almost one million dollars in necessary maintenance that needed to be done.

That assessment process was done on every mechanical system—in every building. “Once we assessed everything, we began to put a plan together to bring it all back up to where it needed to be,” says Todd.

While it may seem like the team is always dealing with reactive maintenance issues, they are also allocating time for preventative maintenance. Todd assures the team, that with their current plan in place, the preventative maintenance will eventually take over the reactive.

TheWorxHub, a computerized maintenance management system, streamlines maintenance work orders and provides more efficient operations. “Our preventative maintenance now gets added to TheWorxHub as a timed calendar or meter event that will generate a work order for the team to follow up with,” says Todd.

Preventative maintenance plans includes infrared technology and vibration analysis on more expensive equipment, including the chillers with magnetic drive motors at the Cedar Lake Health and Rehabilitation Center and Cedar Ridge. One motor is $50,000 to replace if it goes down, so a vibration analysis meter will monitor the vibration of the motors as they spin to see a trend, and from that trend, more accurately determine when it’s going to fail, and replace it before that happens. “Todd’s incredible experience and knowledge has helped to elevate our facility services across the board. Our preventative maintenance program will ensure we are being the very best fiscal and environmental stewards when it comes to our physical plant, our hundreds of natural acres, and our life safety programs,” says Cedar Community CEO Nicole Pretre. “And as we look to grow as an organization, I am highly confident in the success of our current repositioning project, as well as future projects because of his leadership.”

Strategic management of every building and every piece of equipment on Cedar Community’s four campuses is a demanding task. “One of the big things we did was the capital replacement plan which allows us—based on a condition assessment—to project when we think a piece of equipment is going to need to be replaced,” Todd explained. “Once determined, we map this into a spreadsheet, attach a budget amount, and forecast which budget year to plan for.”

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“I love what I do. It’s challenging and never the same,” says Todd. While no two days are ever alike, that is no truer than today, with the construction project underway and crews on-site every day. Supporting Cedar Community CEO Nicole Pretre’s vision for better utilization of underleveraged spaces, Todd worked side-by-side with her, considering all the options. “We explored one extreme to another—from demolishing to remodeling. I gathered information from our executive team about past projects to improve the process,” says Todd.

The professional team supporting Cedar Community’s Cedar Lake Campus project includes owner’s representative Ric Miller from Ric Miller Construction Consulting, the architectural team from EUA (Eppstein Uhen Architects), and construction management firm, VJS Construction Services.

Cedar Community’s facility services team continues the day to day management of campus operations while the construction project is in full swing. They never know what each day will bring, but Todd says, “My team is awesome and when I need them—even if it’s 2 a.m. when something goes awry—they all show up!” The restructuring of several roles and some promotions on the team will allow Todd to focus more closely on strategic planning and process and systems improvements.

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Cheri Manthei was recently promoted to director of facility services. In this role, she manages emergency preparedness, life safety, campus security, and compliance efforts. She will also take a course through the International Association for Professional Facility Managers and earn a certification as a Facility Management Professional (FMP). Todd has also enlisted the help of a mentor for Cheri. “Being a female in a male dominated profession, I wanted Cheri to have a woman who has worked in the field to be a resource for her, and available if she has questions or concerns,” says Todd. In the United States, only 20 percent of directors of facility services are women.

Other promotions within the facility department include Tom Riggert who was promoted to project manager, and will oversee all construction and capital improvement projects across all Cedar Community campuses. In addition, Jesse Mosca, facility operations supervisor, is now responsible for maintenance of all of Cedar Community’s West Bend campuses, including Cedar Ridge, Cedar Ridge Homes, Cedar Lake Village Homes, The Cottages, The Willows at Cedar Lake, Cedar Bay West, and the Cedar Lake Health and Rehabilitation Center.

You may not see every member of the facility services team every day, but 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, they are the eyes and ears on every inch of Cedar Community’s campus. Thank you, team!

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All Around The Bend Business Showcase The West Bend Area Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the West Bend School District, is excited to offer chamber members and area businesses this NEW opportunity to show off what they do best at the All Around the Bend Business Showcase. Cedar Community will be there with information about our living options, home-based services, and more. Stop by our booth and say hello Saturday, April 29, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at West Bend High School Fieldhouse, West Bend.

Cedar Community Announces New Vice President of Assisted Living Cedar Community is pleased to announce the promotion of Jen Fullhart to vice president of assisted living. Fullhart has been with Cedar Community for nine and a half years. Her career path is a great example of the advancement opportunities available at Cedar Community— she got her start in nurse scheduling, transitioned to human resources, was promoted to administrator of The Cottages, and then to director of assisted living. She has continued to develop her strong leadership skills and enhanced her education along the way. Fullhart has a Bachelor of Science in healthcare administration, a minor in business administration, and a master’s degree in human resources and labor relations.

Jen will continue to lead the assisted living division along with her team–Assisted Living Director of Nursing Jess Mohr, The Cottages Administrator Lindsay Sauer, The Willows at Cedar Lake Manager Emily Verran, and Elkhart Lake Campus Director Rachel Wolfe. “Jen’s thoughtful and caring approach with residents, families, and team members will help her continue to grow in her new role, while also being an important voice on the executive council for Cedar Community,” says Nicole Pretre, CEO.

Jen Fullhart Vice President of Assisted Living

TEAM MEMBER OF THE YEAR

Congratulations to Music Therapist Lisa Kelling who was chosen as Team Member of the Year. The winner is chosen by the Team Member of the Quarter committee from all the current year’s winners.

“Team member of the Year 2022 honors are well deserved for Lisa.

She is a very hard worker who puts her heart and soul into everything she does. She goes above and beyond to help the residents of Cedar Community in whatever way she can. Lisa is very talented and we are thankful for her contributions every day!” says Erin Faust, life enrichment director.

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Cedar Community Commits to Improving Heart Failure Care Participation in the American Heart Association’s IMPLEMENT-HF initiative aims to improve patient outcomes, bridge gaps in care Heart failure (HF) ranks among the costliest health conditions to treat and takes a tremendous toll on patients’ quality of life and longevity, according to the American Heart Association, the world’s leading voluntary health organization devoted to a world of longer, healthier lives for all. Approximately six million Americans live with the condition—a number expected to reach epidemic proportions as the population ages.

To tackle this growing problem, Cedar Community joined more than two dozen health care systems across the country in the American Heart Association’s IMPLEMENTHF™ initiative, launched in 2020.

“Cedar Community joined the American Heart Association’s call, demonstrating our commitment to quality heart failure care,” said Heather Suarez Del Real, director of nursing. “This national initiative aims to create a healthcare ecosystem for heart failure that emphasizes implementation science and patient engagement.”

IMPLEMENT-HF will work to bridge communication and coordination between care settings, health care professionals, and patients to achieve precise heart failure management and improve outcomes.

The initiative will use established American Heart Association primary data collection approaches, including the Association’s hospital-based Get With The Guidelines® - Heart Failure program, to identify, implement and evaluate processes to develop new standards for heart failure patient management.

The American Heart Association’s National heart failure initiative, IMPLEMENT-HF, is made possible with funding from founding sponsor, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, and national sponsors, Boehringer Ingelheim and Eli Lilly and Company.

Cedar Community Receives 2023 Customer Experience Award from Pinnacle Quality Insight Cedar Community is proud to announce that it has earned the Pinnacle Quality Insight 2023 Customer Experience Award, with honors in independent living. Qualifying for the Pinnacle Customer Experience Award means that Cedar Community has placed in the top 15 percent of care providers nationwide across a 12-month average.

Sarah Malchow, chief administrative officer, describes receiving the award as an honor, stating that, “This award truly belongs to our team of Cedar Community Champions who tirelessly support our family of residents, neighbors, and friends. From our humble beginnings to our emergence as the region’s largest faith-based, not-for-profit senior living community—Cedar Community’s commitment to excellence, and to our residents, has not wavered.”

Throughout its 70-year history of serving friends and neighbors in the greater community, Cedar Community has placed a strong emphasis on ensuring that the individual needs of every resident are met. Over the course of 2022, a sampling of Cedar Community’s customers and their families participated in monthly telephone interviews that included open-ended questions, as well the opportunity to rate Cedar Community in specific categories. Every month, Cedar Community gathers real-time survey results to gain a better understanding of the resident’s needs as part of our commitment to continuous improvement.

To learn more visit, pinnacleqi.com/awards/the-recipients.

For more information about IMPLEMENT-HF, visit heart.org/implementhf.

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A life of service: An interview with Orville Larsen BY: Tom Blumenberg Resident, Cedar Community Independent Living

Orville was ordered to Davis-Monthan Army Air Base in Tucson, Arizona. There he was assigned to a crew of 10 airmen which consisted of four officers and six enlisted men. He recalls a story when on a practice bombing run he used a hand-held movie camera to document the effectiveness of the mission. The crew did such a fine job they were given a fully fueled B-24 and a three-day pass—they spent their leave in Texas.

At war

The early years Orville was born in Milwaukee in 1925. His mother, Genevieve, had three children and worked in the grocery business of her parents. His father, Johan, was the captain of a freighter ship that sailed the Great Lakes. When WWII broke out, he was commissioned as a lieutenant commander as he continued plying the waters of the Great Lakes hauling steel for the war effort.

Enlisted In 1943, Orville was in high school at Boys’ Technical High School learning the auto repair trade. He knew he would be drafted at age 18, so he enlisted. He told me everyone was interested in the Army, but he really wanted to pilot a P-38 aircraft.

Orville entered duty at Fort Sheridan, Illinois, in January of 1944, and was detailed to Jefferson Barracks, Missouri. He did not pass the difficult initial testing to become a pilot. Instead, Orville was placed in gunnery school where he learned all the intricacies of a .50 caliber—a heavy machine gun that was used extensively in WWII. His military occupational specialty indicated he was trained as an aerial gunner at Tyndall Field in Florida.

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In January of 1945, Orville boarded the SS Timothy Dwight bound for Marseilles, France. Arriving there he lived in a tent city until he was reassigned to Italy. Before arriving in Naples, the ship he was on delivered Gurkha troops returning from the battle zone to Algiers.

He talked of the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the troops—using scrap parts from planes to fashion makeshift heating units for their tents. Orville recalled flight patterns from Italy, crossing the Adriatic Sea. On one mission, on route to Regensburg, Germany, his aircraft malfunctioned. The bombs they were carrying were dropped into the Adriatic, and they were forced to land at a forward base in Yugoslavia.

Orville detailed his responsibilities aboard the aircraft, including manning the nose gun on the B-24 and operating the auxiliary diesel alternator, which was required for takeoff and landing. The aircraft was not pressurized or heated, which Orville recalled, resulted in a frozen gun barrel and a rock-hard Reuben sandwich.

Flying in about a dozen missions, Orville’s experience took him to campaigns in Rome-Arno, Po Valley, Rhineland, and Central Europe. With the war nearing an end, Orville started his trip home. Leaving Toronto, Italy, aboard the SS West Point on April 15, 1945, he arrived in Newport News, Virginia, two weeks later.

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Thank you for your service!

Back in the U.S.

Reflections

Orville was not discharged immediately, but worked as an administrative clerk in the Sick and Wounded Office. His duty included accompanying soldiers back to their homes.

He was honorably discharged from duty, with a pay of $300, from Patterson Field, Ohio, in February of 1946. His discharge papers listed six decorations and citations.

Orville was proud of his service and categorized it as an interesting experience. He did not identify any single event as being exceptionally dangerous but observed that, “Everything was dangerous and war is a bad idea.”

Life goes on Orville was glad to be home in Milwaukee, and he easily adjusted to civilian life. He finished the last semester of high school and earned his diploma. Orville got a job with a phone company and made it a career for 35 years.

He married in 1950 and he and his wife, Helen, raised two children.

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Cedar Community Orville has lived at Cedar Community since 2008. On appropriate holidays, he continues to serve by helping to place American flags at many locations on the Cedar Community campus.

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Join hundreds of volunteers who share time and talents at Cedar Community Cedar Community is so thankful for our team of champions—the heart and soul of our community. Team members and volunteers make an impact in the lives of our residents each and every day! Cedar Community’s 300+ volunteers are not only an inspiration, they are also vital to our mission.

2022

Barb Connor

Mary Schwittau

29,222 volunteer hours

Volunteer, 7 years

Volunteer, 10 years

“My mom was a resident of Cedar Community and volunteering is my way of giving back to an organization that took such good care of her.”

“I like the variety of volunteer opportunities.

I can pick and choose what best fits my interests and schedule.”

$875,199 value of volunteer time

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VOLUNTEER | MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN SOMEONE’S LIFE

You are invited Adults, families, teens, church groups, and school groups can find meaningful and fulfilling ways to share their time and talents with older adults who live at Cedar Community. Whether you wish to volunteer for an hour or a day, once a year, once a month, or once a week—there are countless opportunities to make a difference.

Volunteer opportunities · Pontoon boat captains, “bug” trail vehicle drivers, and van drivers for outings · Theme party, cookout, holiday, and happy hour helpers · Spiritual and religious service assistance

You will make a difference Volunteering can bring extra meaning to your life—providing a sense of purpose and fulfillment while you help others. There are many benefits to sharing your time and talents with others— connecting with the community, making new friends, and learning new skills. Volunteering doesn’t have to involve longterm commitments or take up too much time out of your busy day. Giving in the simplest of ways and helping out with the smallest tasks can make a real difference in someone’s life.

· Cedar Community hospice visitors · Game leaders, readers, friendly visitors · Gardening and landscape assistance · Musical, dance, theatrical, educational, or artistic program providers · Companion assistance for outings

You can learn more

· Help transporting residents within building

To learn more about becoming a champion for Cedar Community as a volunteer, contact Bonnie Amerling, volunteer coordinator, 262.306.4218 or bamerling@cedarcommunity.org. “I have been blessed with an amazing career at Cedar Community, spanning 38 years. My favorite part of being the volunteer coordinator is seeing the outpouring of love and dedication from our volunteers and the respect they have for one another. I have enjoyed so many new friendships over the years,” says Bonnie.

· Clerical help · Cedar Treasures Resale · Cedar Closet Resale · Group or corporate volunteering opportunities · Shopping volunteers

Whether you wish to volunteer for an hour or a day, once a year, once a month, or once a week, we can help you find an opportunity that best fits your interests and schedule.

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Making a Move—Our Unwavering Decision “After our initial meeting with Sales Director Cathy Majkowski about the variety and availability of independent living options at Cedar Community, I was sold. I was just wondering how I was going to convince Debbie, since we had lived in our current home for 30 years,” says Marv Wolf.

Following a tour of Cedar Community’s Cedar Ridge Homes, Debbie walked out the door, turned to Marv and said, “When can we move in?”

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The Wolfs have lived in West Bend their entire lives, and are only a few miles from where they raised their son. Their new home offers a similar amount of space, but the best part is their home is now worry-free—with Cedar Community taking care of maintenance and snow removal. “Moving here also fit into our love for camping or ‘glamping in our fifth wheel,’ as we call it. We can lock the door, leave, and know it’s secure. The best part is not worrying about cutting the grass while we are vacationing,” says Marv. “It’s a great amenity here—being taken care of.”

Marv attended Holy Angels School and went on to high school at DeSales Preparatory Seminary in Milwaukee, while Debbie attended St. Frances Cabrini and then West Bend High School. After Marv decided that attending the seminary was not his chosen path, he met Debbie at the University of WisconsinWashington County where both were studying. Marv eventually received a degree in urban and regional planning from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and Debbie earned a teaching degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

After graduation, Marv began his career in landscape design and maintenance—working right out of college for a local landscaper. His path also included a role on the Cedar Community grounds team, and then eventually, West Bend Mutual where he spent 25 years— retiring in 2015. Marv can be credited at creating over 60 acres of prairie on the 160-acre West Bend Mutual grounds and planting well over 12,000 trees. “I stopped counting,” jokes Marv. Believe it or not, after all those years, he still enjoys working in the yard and plans to help Cedar Community’s grounds crew with some plantings on the Cedar Ridge Campus.

Debbie retired in 2010 after a 30-year teaching career at West Bend West High School. She loves math and taught algebra, geometry, and advanced algebra.

In January of 2021, the Wolfs saw the new floor plans for the Cedar Ridge Homes and made their down payment. “It snowballed really quickly. We didn’t hesitate because we just knew it was the right choice. Cedar Community’s philosophy and Christian-based values have not changed over time, and they still reflect what Rev. Riesch started—that we take care of our people.

These were all of the selling points for us,” reflect both Debbie and Marv.

With retirement in full swing, the Wolfs now have time to volunteer—something that full-time jobs and raising an active son did not always allow extra time

for. Debbie is a Partner at Froedtert West Bend Hospital, volunteering 20 to 30 hours a week in the gift shop as a cashier, curating retail displays, and wholesale merchandise buyer. Her volunteer work has afforded her many travel opportunities on buying excursions for the gift shop. “I have been to Minnesota, Chicago, Las Vegas, Atlanta, and Dallas—who knew I would be on a plane so often in retirement,” says Debbie. She loves to see the new retail trends and displays at the shows. “It’s very satisfying when people come into the gift shop and buy what I picked out,” says Debbie. When Debbie is not busy volunteering, she enjoys puzzles, reading, scrapbooking, camping, hiking, and biking.

For nearly eight years, Marv has worked a ‘retirement’ job at Holy Angels Cemetery—20 to 30 hours a week— cutting grass, maintaining the grounds, and assisting with burials. Marv can also be found assisting as a lector, sacristan, and server during worship services as well. At Cedar Community, Marv assists with the maple syrup collection process, helps Grounds Supervisor Andy Henckel, (a team member he hired while he was working at Cedar Community), and helps out with projects at the woodworking shop.

The Wolfs are content and absolutely love retirement.

They made the decision to move to a senior living community because they did not want their son to be left with all the decisions and stress if something happened to them. “All the things we had to do and go through when my dad and Debbie’s dad died—funeral planning, selling their homes. We didn’t want our son to have to go through that,” says Marv. “Also, if we need additional care, there will be a place for us, and Brian wouldn’t have to worry about our future care as well.

It’s peace of mind that everything will be taken care of,” says Debbie.

The Wolfs both agree, there is much to love about living at Cedar Community—the peaceful campuses, trails, lake access, prairie, and the people. “I like my house and the layout, and everyone is so friendly. We have met so many new friends,” says Debbie. “This place is such a wonderful environment and the team is amazing. They are always willing to address questions and concerns, and so quick to respond,” says Marv.

Whether it’s welcoming their son, daughter-in-law, and two granddaughters for a weekend in their new spacious home, or hitting the road for some glamping, the Wolfs could not be happier with their choice to make a move to Cedar Community where they can enjoy, explore, and embrace their best life!

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Hospice team provides care and compassion Barb Kasper has lived at Cedar Community for 23 years—21 years in independent living and two years in assisted living. Over the years, she has had to add extra services as she needs them. Recently, she added the hospice team to support her on her journey with congestive heart failure.

The hospice and assisted living teams support Barb in a variety of ways including—checking in regularly, providing spa baths and massages, visits from our chaplains, and art and music therapy. “The staff is always here checking on me. We have a good time, we joke. The ratio of residents to care team is very good and I feel well taken care of. As soon as I push my call button, they are here. If I have any questions or concerns, they always say, ‘I will find you an answer.’

They take as much time with you when you do need it.

It’s more than just sticking their head in the door and asking what you need. It’s a personal relationship,” says Barb.

The care Barb receives has far exceeded her expectations. “The care, compassion, and services I have received are definitely over and above.” Barb feels everyone is working together so she can live life to the fullest on this part of her journey—embracing what each day brings.

Staying active and involved is important to Barb and she attends as many activities as she can. She enjoys three meals a day in the dining room, and when she doesn’t feel well, her meals are delivered to her room. “Everything seems to work really well,” says Barb. She couldn’t ask for more.

From Cedar Community’s perspective, the patient is the most important member of the hospice team.

Our award-winning hospice team members provide support not only for the patient, but for the family— ensuring comfort, dignified support, and the highest quality of care.

For more information on Cedar Community’s Hospice services, call 262.306.2691.

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Cedar Community Hospice provides: ∙ Specialized care in pain management and symptom control. ∙ Social workers for emotional support, care planning, and connection to assistive resources. ∙ Home health aides for extra help with personal care and assistance. ∙ Chaplains for spiritual guidance and support for you and your family. ∙ Physical, occupational, and speech therapy as needed. ∙ Trained volunteers for support and companionship. ∙ Music, art, and massage therapy. ∙ Bereavement services to help with grief and loss for family and loved ones.

H

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HENRY UMSTADT Al

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Henry Umstadt was presented with the 2022 Sheboygan County 4-H Alumni Association Award for his lifetime achievement in 4-H. Henry celebrated the award with his family, along with residents and team members at Cedar Community’s assisted living in Elkhart Lake. Henry started in 4-H when he was 10 years old. He said it was a good outlet for him after his mother passed away. Henry only missed one Sheboygan County Fair in all his years in 4-H and that was due to his Army service.

He mentored members of his family through the 4-H program, along with countless other youth and community members.

Congratulations, Henry, for your dedication to volunteerism and mentoring through the Sheboygan County 4-H program!

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Spring is in the air at Cedar Valley The grass is getting green, trees are budding, flowers are blooming, and the birds are certainly chirping! It is a wonderful time of year to explore the beauty of Cedar Valley. Awaken your soul when you walk the trails, visit Spirit Chapel, discover the gardens, and more. Photographers, birdwatchers, walkers, and seekers—this place will fill your cup! Give us a call or stop at the front desk when you visit.

Spring brings growth and new life to our spirits. Spending time in creative pursuit and with creative companions is our passion. We are thrilled to welcome Vanessa Johanning—more well-known as KiKi—for two art workshops this spring. Kiki is an international full-time multimedia artist, instructor, and garden designer. She has been featured in local news stories and national magazines, and has a new project with Bloom TV Network called, “Embellish Your Life!”

In her work, Kiki loves to create with unusual materials, bright colors, florals, glittering embellishments, and more. She wholly embodies the creative life, and her joy and enthusiasm are contagious!

Gather a few friends and join us!

Spring art workshop schedule: Cost includes supplies. Full day and weekend classes include lunch.

Plein Air Field Study 1 with Lorin Willey April 15–16 | 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Overnight: $370; Commuter: $110

May Day Cookie Bouquet with Amy Schermetzler Saturday, April 22 Morning session: 10 a.m.–12 p.m.; Afternoon session: 1–3 p.m. $60

Watercolor Exploration with Ed Fenendael May 5–7 | 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Overnight: $440; Commuter: $180

5349 County Road D West Bend, WI 53090

Floral Still Life Mosaic Workshop with Kerry Tharp May 19–21 | 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Overnight: $440; Commuter: $180

Pocket Memory Art Journal with KiKi Johanning June 3 | 10 a.m.–3 p.m. | $80 (includes most supplies)

Plein Air Field Study 2 with Lorin Willey June 17–18 | 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Overnight: $370; Commuter: $110

Developing Artistry in Oils–Portrait essentials for oil, acrylic, and pastel painters

Find more information and class descriptions at ucci.org.

You may register online or by calling 262.629.9202. Call or email cedarvalley@ucci.org with any questions.

June 23–25 | 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Overnight: $465; Commuter: $200 Cedar Valley, a property owned by Cedar Community, is managed by United Church Camps, Inc. (UCCI). UCCI hosts camps, retreats, and events at three sites: Cedar Valley, Daycholah Center (on Green Lake), and Moon Beach (near St. Germain).

Browse events and register online at ucci.org. These sacred places are for your enjoyment and spiritual renewal.

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Spring brings new life and renewed beauty As I walk through the seasons of life, spring is one of my favorite times of the year. My husband and I eagerly talk through what our garden plans are for the upcoming season.

While he focuses on the vegetables, I dig deep in the dirt of my endless flower beds. Every bud and bloom bring me joy, and I believe its nature’s way of reminding me this is a season to pause, be patient, reflect, renew, and water my soul. It’s my garden of hope!

Jenny Zaskowski Philanthropy Director

Nurturing comes in many forms—sunshine, clouds, rain, and maybe a little Miracle Grow! I look at our work of philanthropy through a very similar lens. All things in life thrive in different environments.

Philanthropy grows in time. Your investment today, without pause, will be the watering can that serves others for years to come.

We all hope to grow old in life and we all hope to have enough funds to support our journey. However, sometimes unexpectedly, we may face a different plan. We have many donors who support the journey of others with a common theme: “I give today because I can,” or, “I hope I don’t need to ask for support, but if I do, I know it will be available because of people like you.” For residents who require Medicaid and government supports for their long-term and skilled nursing care, gifts to Partners In Caring™ help support the high-quality, dignified, and compassionate care they deserve—no matter their ability to pay.

“

I hope I don’t need to ask for support, but if I do, I know it will be available because of people like you.

My role at Cedar Community is to support you as you consider where to plant your seeds. Is it Partners in Caring, where we invest $2-4 million annually to cover the cost of care for these friends and neighbors who need it? If so, your gifts go directly into action—helping others within weeks.

Are you looking for guidance in your estate planning? We can refer you to legal experts to help. Do you have a desire to gift a Partners in Caring legacy for the future? Or are you seeking guidance on how you can support another charitable cause that is near and dear to your heart? We are happy to connect you with others.

During my short time at Cedar Community, I have discovered that kindness grows here. As you look to plant your garden this year, whether it be from a seed, plant, or the desire of your heart—thank you for thinking of how you may share your harvest with others. Happy planting!

To learn more about how you can support this year’s Partners In Caring campaign, please contact the philanthropy team at 262.338.4625. Thank you! cedarcommunity.org

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Non-profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID West Bend, WI Permit No. 24 5595 County Road Z | West Bend, WI 53095

CEDAR COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTORY Independent Living West Bend · Cedar Ridge Apartments · Cedar Ridge Homes · Cedar Lake Village Homes · The Lofts at Cedar Lake 262.338.4617 · The Willows at Cedar Lake 262.306.4299 Elkhart Lake · Cedar Landing Homes 920.876.4050 Assisted Living West Bend · Cedar Bay West · The Cottages (memory care) 262.306.4299 Elkhart Lake · Cedar Bay Elkhart Lake 920.876.4050 Short-term Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing · Cedar Lake Health and Rehabilitation Center 262.306.4240

Outpatient Rehabilitation 262.306.2150 Home Health & Hospice 262.365.5200 or 262.306.2691 Restaurant and Catering · Top of the Ridge Restaurant 262.338.2812 Cafés · Market Café (Cedar Ridge Campus) 262.338.4614

Cedar Community Salon & Spa Services · Cedar Lake Health and Rehabilitation Center 262.306.4281 · Cedar Ridge Apartments 262.338.2813 · Cedar Bay West 262.306.2130, ext. 4429 · The Cottages 262.365.6500, ext. 5405

· Cedar Lake Café (Cedar Lake Campus) 262.306.2100, ext. 4128

Cedar Lake Pharmacy 262.306.4289

Resale Shops · Cedar Treasures (Cedar Ridge Campus) 262.338.8377

Cedar Community Main Number 262.306.2100

· Cedar Closet (Cedar Lake Campus) 262.306.2100, ext. 4119 Volunteers 262.306.4218 Philanthropy 262.338.2819

Careers cedarcommunity.org

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