Activity Update
November 2025 Activities Newsletter Article
By Laura Zechin
Let me tell you a story of one of the Twentieth Century’s greatest men: Winston Churchill. Born into an aristocratic British family with an American mother, Churchill chose an active life in the British army, serving in India, the Middle East, and South Africa. His military/political career progressed as he was then voted in as an MP (member of Parliament) and made First Lord of the Admiralty. His career path seemed stellar. As First Lord of the Admiralty, Churchill was in charge of the World War I effort in the Dardanelles campaign and the fiasco at Gallipoli which resulted in over 300,000 British and French casualties. He was replaced by his superiors and at a low period of his life. He had failed and was wallowing in that failure. Depressed and defeated as he was, his sister-in-law convinced him to try his hand at oil painting. At the age of 40, Churchill found that he had a knack for painting. His landscapes (done under a pseudonym) won prizes! He also found painting to be a respite and a stress relief at a dark period of his life. His painting honed his attention to details, for which his public speaking was later known. This new hobby brought Churchill through his bleakest time and readied him for later service as the undefeatable Prime Minister of Britain during the awful days of the Blitz and World War II. He found time to paint during the uncertainties of those times, as well. Can we imagine Britain and the US defeating the Germans in that awful war without his leadership? No. New skills are a useful tool for everyone, just as they were for Winston Churchill.
Our activity department believes this is true for each resident. We offer new cooking recipes to try, new tastes to sample, new arts and crafts and coloring, new music, and more. As we embrace and reminisce about past times, we can try something fresh, something refreshing. We want to do this in the wonderful season of holidays—with their joys and their memories that sometimes make us wistful and a bit sad. We miss what we had and what we were. “Finding New Joys & Respites” is a great goal to put on our “I Am Thankful for This Ability” lists this season! Let us encourage you to do this with us.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Dietary Update
Hello from the Montrose Dietary Department! As the holiday season is approaching, I just wanted to remind everyone about coming to MHC to enjoy our holiday meal with our residents. We all love having visitors! It will be on Thanksgiving Day from 11am to 1pm. We will be serving Oven Roasted Turkey, Stuffing, Cinnamon Maple Roasted Carrots, Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, Mini Corn Muffins with Honey Butter, and Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes. If you would like to join us for Thanksgiving, please call our facility at 319-463-5439 and RSVP. There is a $10 charge for our holiday meal. We hope to see you!
Happy Thanksgiving
Brandy Jenkins
Dietary Supervisor
Nursing Update
🍁 MONTROSE HEALTH CENTER
FALL FAMILY NEWSLETTER — November 🍁
Dear Montrose Families,
As we welcome the season of gratitude, we are reminded of the many blessings that surround us here at Montrose Health Center. The changing leaves, cooler air, and gathering of loved ones offer a beautiful opportunity to reflect on the bonds we share within our community.
A Heartwarming Thanksgiving Season
Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and we are excited to celebrate this special holiday with our residents and their families.
We will once again be hosting a Thanksgiving meal, where families are invited to join their loved ones for a warm and joyful gathering. This holiday is always one of our favorites, as the dining room fills with laughter, shared stories, and meaningful connection. More details will be shared soon regarding dates, times, and RSVP information—we look forward to having you at our table.
Halloween Fun & Community Joy
We kicked off the fall season with an evening of Halloween magic! The halls were filled with excitement as our residents passed out candy to local children, who arrived in their creative costumes. Smiles, giggles, and sweet treats made it a night to remember. Our residents always enjoy being part of the joy and energy of the community, and this tradition continues to bring so much happiness to all involved.
A Full House: A True Testament to Quality Care
We are proud to share that Montrose Health Center recently reached full census.
This milestone is a true reflection of the trust placed in us by families and a testament to the compassionate, high-quality care our team provides each and every day. We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to care for so many wonderful residents—it is an honor we do not take lightly.
A Family Within Our Walls
Here at Montrose Health Center, we believe that care extends far beyond daily tasks—it’s about connection. Over time, we’ve had the privilege of getting to know not only our residents, but their family members as well.
This closeness has created something truly special:
a large, blended family made up of residents, loved ones, and staff.
We are grateful for your partnership, your trust, and your presence. Whether you are here often or supporting from afar, you are an important part of our community.
As we gather this season—around tables, in conversation, or simply in spirit—we are thankful for each of you. Thank you for allowing us the privilege of caring for your loved ones and for helping make Montrose a place filled with warmth, respect, and belonging.
From our Montrose family to yours,
Wishing you a Thanksgiving full of love, peace, and gratitude.
With warmest appreciation,
Jensen Riley, Director of Nursing🍂
Activity Update
November 2025 Activities Newsletter Article
By Laura Zechin
Let me tell you a story of one of the Twentieth Century’s greatest men: Winston Churchill. Born into an aristocratic British family with an American mother, Churchill chose an active life in the British army, serving in India, the Middle East, and South Africa. His military/political career progressed as he was then voted in as an MP (member of Parliament) and made First Lord of the Admiralty. His career path seemed stellar. As First Lord of the Admiralty, Churchill was in charge of the World War I effort in the Dardanelles campaign and the fiasco at Gallipoli which resulted in over 300,000 British and French casualties. He was replaced by his superiors and at a low period of his life. He had failed and was wallowing in that failure. Depressed and defeated as he was, his sister-in-law convinced him to try his hand at oil painting. At the age of 40, Churchill found that he had a knack for painting. His landscapes (done under a pseudonym) won prizes! He also found painting to be a respite and a stress relief at a dark period of his life. His painting honed his attention to details, for which his public speaking was later known. This new hobby brought Churchill through his bleakest time and readied him for later service as the undefeatable Prime Minister of Britain during the awful days of the Blitz and World War II. He found time to paint during the uncertainties of those times, as well. Can we imagine Britain and the US defeating the Germans in that awful war without his leadership? No. New skills are a useful tool for everyone, just as they were for Winston Churchill.
Our activity department believes this is true for each resident. We offer new cooking recipes to try, new tastes to sample, new arts and crafts and coloring, new music, and more. As we embrace and reminisce about past times, we can try something fresh, something refreshing. We want to do this in the wonderful season of holidays—with their joys and their memories that sometimes make us wistful and a bit sad. We miss what we had and what we were. “Finding New Joys & Respites” is a great goal to put on our “I Am Thankful for This Ability” lists this season! Let us encourage you to do this with us.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Dietary Update
Hello from the Montrose Dietary Department! As the holiday season is approaching, I just wanted to remind everyone about coming to MHC to enjoy our holiday meal with our residents. We all love having visitors! It will be on Thanksgiving Day from 11am to 1pm. We will be serving Oven Roasted Turkey, Stuffing, Cinnamon Maple Roasted Carrots, Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, Mini Corn Muffins with Honey Butter, and Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes. If you would like to join us for Thanksgiving, please call our facility at 319-463-5439 and RSVP. There is a $10 charge for our holiday meal. We hope to see you!
Happy Thanksgiving
Brandy Jenkins
Dietary Supervisor
Nursing Update
🍁 MONTROSE HEALTH CENTER
FALL FAMILY NEWSLETTER — November 🍁
Dear Montrose Families,
As we welcome the season of gratitude, we are reminded of the many blessings that surround us here at Montrose Health Center. The changing leaves, cooler air, and gathering of loved ones offer a beautiful opportunity to reflect on the bonds we share within our community.
A Heartwarming Thanksgiving Season
Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and we are excited to celebrate this special holiday with our residents and their families.
We will once again be hosting a Thanksgiving meal, where families are invited to join their loved ones for a warm and joyful gathering. This holiday is always one of our favorites, as the dining room fills with laughter, shared stories, and meaningful connection. More details will be shared soon regarding dates, times, and RSVP information—we look forward to having you at our table.
Halloween Fun & Community Joy
We kicked off the fall season with an evening of Halloween magic! The halls were filled with excitement as our residents passed out candy to local children, who arrived in their creative costumes. Smiles, giggles, and sweet treats made it a night to remember. Our residents always enjoy being part of the joy and energy of the community, and this tradition continues to bring so much happiness to all involved.
A Full House: A True Testament to Quality Care
We are proud to share that Montrose Health Center recently reached full census.
This milestone is a true reflection of the trust placed in us by families and a testament to the compassionate, high-quality care our team provides each and every day. We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to care for so many wonderful residents—it is an honor we do not take lightly.
A Family Within Our Walls
Here at Montrose Health Center, we believe that care extends far beyond daily tasks—it’s about connection. Over time, we’ve had the privilege of getting to know not only our residents, but their family members as well.
This closeness has created something truly special:
a large, blended family made up of residents, loved ones, and staff.
We are grateful for your partnership, your trust, and your presence. Whether you are here often or supporting from afar, you are an important part of our community.
As we gather this season—around tables, in conversation, or simply in spirit—we are thankful for each of you. Thank you for allowing us the privilege of caring for your loved ones and for helping make Montrose a place filled with warmth, respect, and belonging.
From our Montrose family to yours,
Wishing you a Thanksgiving full of love, peace, and gratitude.
With warmest appreciation,
Jensen Riley, Director of Nursing🍂