Thanks to Mrs. Blair Gerlach [HS/MS Vocational Agriculture Instructor, Bellevue Future Farmers of America (FFA) Advisor; Bellevue Community High/Middle School; Bellevue, Iowa] and her Agriculture FFA Class students for hosting a “Petting Zoo” for the residents, tenants, and staff at the Mill Valley Care Center in Bellevue, Iowa, during the afternoon on Wednesday, May 7, 2025.
A big Thank You to all the families, friends, residents, tenants, staff, volunteers, churches, businesses, schools, teachers, students, and musicians, who contributed to making our week so enjoyable and memorable for the residents and tenants. Your visits, sharing your gifts and time mean the world to everyone here.
We would like to recognize our amazing volunteers for their continued support and dedication. You truly make a difference! We Thank our volunteers for assisting Activities this week: Rev. Andy Upah (Pastor, St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Bellevue, Iowa), Laura and Jr. Steines, and Rick Michels (Catholic Service); Theresa Weber and Jane Weber, Jill Majerus and Maryetta Lampe (KMAQ Radio Bingo). Bingo with the American Legion Auxiliary Ladies: Judi Daniels, Linda Hendricks, with Jill Majerus and Dahlia Beauchamp; Maryetta Lampe, Lynn Muhlenhaupt, with Joy M. (staff); Kindal Klein, Kayla Blaser, Alison Meier, Courtney Maxwell, Lenae Sieverding (Administrator), and Anonymous. Thanks to the faithful Dominoes volunteers: Vincent Schmitt, Merle Kilburg, and Marlyce Tebbe.
Chef Kevin Hebert (HealthCare of Iowa) arrived and prepared breakfast (at the SVAL) and then presented a food demonstration (at the MVCC) for the residents and tenants during the afternoon on Tuesday. Menu Sampling: Puff Pastry, asparagus, & prosciutto bundles with honey Dijon sauce; BBQ Chicken, and fresh pineapple quesadillas with BBQ drizzle, sour cream & green onion; and Mini caramel Apple pies with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce!
Thanks to Bonnie D’Souza (MSN, RN, volunteer) for hosting a visit and sharing the “The Power of the Hug” (referring to a concept that hugs have beneficial effects on physical and emotional well-being, reducing stress, boosting mood, and strengthening relationships) with our residents and tenants during the afternoon on Tuesday. The event featured “Hershey Hugs” chocolates and little “Hug Fruit drinks” to complement the real hugs being offered. [“Global Hugs Weekend (May 2-4)” seems to have evolved from Carol (CC) Miller in January 2008. (See URL: carolccmiller.com).] It was great fun inspiring hearts and smiles throughout the hallways of MVCC & SVAL.
Thanks to all those who helped host a “Petting Zoo” during the afternoon on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, for the residents, tenants, visitors, and staff at the Mill Valley Care Center in Bellevue, Iowa. Special thanks to Mrs. Blair Gerlach [HS/MS Vocational Agriculture Instructor, Bellevue Future Farmers of America (FFA) Advisor; Bellevue Community High/Middle School; Bellevue, Iowa] and her Agriculture FFA Class students for bringing their animals: Garret Bevan (provided a Horse); Melanie Duesing (provided a Dog); Makalila Scheckel and Payton Kettman (provided Cats); Anderson Griebel and Kayeleigh Noel (provided a Goat); Cody Cooke (provided Calves); and the Bellevue Agriculture Program (provided Ducks). Thanks also to Courtney Maxwell (staff) and her husband for bringing in their goat to share with the residents, tenants, and staff. A wonderful time was had by all. Thanks to everyone who made this event possible for our residents and tenants; and thanks for making a difference in our lives and sharing some great memories!
Thanks to Kindal Klein (Dietary Supervisor) for her assistance with Activities during this past week, etc. Thanks to Missy Dostal (owner of the America’s Pride Bake Shoppe; Maquoketa, Iowa) for delivering a box full of delicious cookies for the Nurses (in celebration of Nurses Week) and enclosing a wonderful handmade card, which read: “Dear Nurses, Thank you for taking care of the people in the nursing home. – Jeremiah Staner”. (Jeremiah’s note “touched” the hearts of many staff!) Thanks to Jill Majerus (volunteer) for assisting Activities and the residents during this past week. Thanks to “Above & Beyond Hospice” for the goodies for the staff. Thanks to the Family of Ronald Yeager for their donation of items. Thanks to the Family of Betty Gonner for their donations of items. Thanks to Barb Ries for her donation of items and for her beautiful seasonal decorations displayed at the MVCC. Thanks to everyone for their assistance and support with all the “individualized” activities/events during this past week.
For a more comprehensive listing of upcoming activities and events, visit our website: www.MillValleyCareCenter.com. Click on the “Calendar of Events” or “Activity Newsletter” sections for the latest updates and photos. (Note: All activities, events, and times are subject to change without prior notice.) To confirm the scheduling, one may also call: 563-872-5521. One can also find pictures of the “Happenings/Recap” section of our newsletter or on our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/MillValleyCareSunriseVilla/.
Thank you again for entrusting us with the care of your loved ones and for your support. It is an honor to serve you. Wishing you and yours, safe travels and a happy life.
