Commun ty Matters Emporia Presbyterian Manor
Honoring veterans on Memorial Day Each year on the last Monday in May, we celebrate Memorial Day to honor the women and men who have died while serving in the United States military. The American holiday was originally known as Decoration Day because soldiers would decorate the graves of their fallen comrades with flags, wreaths and flowers. The holiday originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Today, we observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, participating in parades or hosting family gatherings. Emporia Presbyterian Manor plans to observe Memorial Day this year by offering a new program that will allow the community to celebrate our veterans all year long. Starting soon, families can purchase a tree that will be planted on our grounds with a plaque provided in honor of their loved one who lives, or lived, at Emporia Presbyterian Manor. Each year on Memorial Day, families can place a wreath or decorations on the tree, and community members, residents, families and staff can enjoy walking the path to view these trees. More information will be available soon.
May 2018
Decades of service
Deb Burris retires after 33 years Emporia Presbyterian Manor said goodbye to one of its first employees when Deb Burris retired on April 6. “I was hired in November 1985 before the building was finished,” said Deb. “I was instrumental in setting up and starting our home health agency, and assisted living on the third floor. When I started, the carpeting wasn’t down. I got to watch the kitchen being completed.” Deb was originally hired as a licensed practical nurse in health care. About 20 years ago, she became a registered nurse and moved into the role of assisted living and home health director. Deb Burris “At that time, the director was leaving, so I stepped right into the role,” she said. “It wasn’t new to me because I had been working on and off in that capacity.”
Over the years, Deb was responsible for screening residents for placement in independent living or assisted living. She also performed admissions and dismissals, interviewed new employees and took care of the payroll. “I like seeing the department run well. I like seeing the residents’ needs being met and making sure everything is running smoothly according to how it should,” said Deb. However, Deb recalls one particular day when things weren’t running smoothly. “One funny thing that happened early on occurred just as we got the kitchen finished. Ed Bell, the CEO at that time, had come to tour the building. RETIRE, continued on page 3
Artist of the Month: Karen Weatherholt Our featured Artist of the Month for May is Emporia-area artist Karen Weatherholt. Her artwork will be on display throughout the month in the Atrium gallery. Karen will be honored with a reception from 4 to 6 p.m. May 30. Come and enjoy her art, ask questions and learn about her sources of inspiration. RSVP to Crystal Stock at 620-3432613 or cstock@pmma.org by May 25. The display is part of Emporia Presbyterian Manor’s ongoing featured artist program through Art is Ageless. Right: Artwork by Karen Weatherholt
Community Matters is published monthly for residents and friends of Emporia Presbyterian Manor by Presbyterian Manors of MidAmerica Inc., a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Learn more at PresbyterianManors.org. Susan Siepelmeier, executive director Crystal Stock, marketing director To submit or suggest articles for this publication, contact Crystal Stock, marketing director, cstock@pmma.org.
Telephone: 620-343-2613 Fax: 620-343-9195 Address: 2300 Industrial Rd., Emporia, KS 66801-6636 Our mission: We provide quality senior services guided by Christian values. EmporiaPresbyterianManor.org
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Community Matters May 2018
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RETIRE, continued from page 1
The maintenance supervisor told an employee to turn on the fire alarm to show him how it worked, but the employee pulled the plug that activated the dry system instead. This flooded the kitchen with powder (which occurs in case of a grease fire) and it cost around $3,000 to recharge
the system. It was a disaster, but kind of funny,” said Deb. Deb is ready to keep life just as interesting in retirement, and already has a long to-do list. She plans to tackle projects around the house— like thoroughly cleaning her closet, painting and making updates. She’s also looking forward to spending time
hope.
Where there is heartache, there is
with Bill, who is her husband of 48 years, and her four children and eight grandchildren. She’s making time for animals, too. “I want to get back into my hobby of raising geese and chickens. And if I get brave enough, I might get another boxer as a pet,” said Deb. “First, I have to grieve the loss of my friends and family from Presbyterian Manor. I’m going to miss everybody. This is a great organization. I’m a big fan of PMMA, and always will be.”
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Emporia Presbyterian Manor 2300 Industrial Rd. Emporia, KS 66801-6636 Return Service Requested
Emporia Presbyterian Manor’s Post-Acute To Home (PATH®) program isn’t just about getting you home—it’s about getting you back to your life. Call 620-343-2613 today to schedule your personal appointment and tour. EmporiaPresbyterianManor.org 4
Community Matters May 2018
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