The Fall 2026 issue of Flourish®: A Senior Living Magazine is all about Going Places -- celebrating the stories of older adults whose lives are still unfolding, with connections growing and moments waiting to be discovered.
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A CEDARHURST PUBLICATION
FALL 2026
Stories of lives unfolding, connections growing and moments waiting to be discovered. Going Places
OUR MISSION & CORE VALUES
To create communities where each person feels loved, valued, supported and able to live life to the fullest.
RESPECTFUL We are humbled by the responsibility that residents and their families place in our hands. We pledge to respect and support our residents in living life to the fullest with dignity and independence.
TRUSTWORTHY We share each person’s desire for a safe, joyful life. Demonstrating this through outstanding service, honesty, and dedication to each other creates genuine trust within our community. POSITIVE Our optimism and sunny outlook fill each day at Cedarhurst with energy and exciting possibilities. We smile, laugh, forge friendships, and make memories together.
APPROACHABLE Our communities are close-knit circles including staff, residents, and their families. This fosters genuine relationships, open communication, personalized service, and loving care.
PASSIONATE Everyone on the team
approaches their work with love, is sincerely devoted to the people they serve, and believes in the power of compassionate care.
EMPATHETIC We are healthcare professionals who listen, understand, and personally relate to everyone’s desire to get the most from life. We support wants and needs stemming from this desire every day, at every level of care.
Almir Sajtovic President of Cedarhurst Senior Living A message from Welcome to the fall issue of Flourish®! There’s something about this time of year that naturally brings people together. As the weather cools and the pace of the season begins to change, we find ourselves spending more time with family and friends, enjoying familiar traditions, and appreciating the connections that make a place feel like home. That same sense of comfort is at the heart of our Cedarhurst® communities. It can be found in familiar faces greeting you each morning, a favorite meal shared around the table, laughter during an activity, or a team member taking a few extra minutes to listen and connect. These everyday moments may seem small, but together they create something incredibly meaningful: a place where people know one another, care for one another, and truly belong. Fall is a wonderful reminder of the importance of familiar traditions, meaningful connections, and time spent together. At Cedarhurst, that means our commitment to creating communities where each person feels loved, valued, supported, and able to live life to the fullest. It means celebrating traditions while making room for new ones, sharing stories while creating new memories, and finding reasons to enjoy each day together.
Throughout this issue of Flourish, you’ll see that spirit reflected in the people and stories that make Cedarhurst special. They remind us that home is about much more than where we live. It’s about the relationships we build, the experiences we share, and the feeling that we are surrounded by people who care. Thank you for being part of the Cedarhurst family and for helping make our communities places of warmth, connection, and belonging. I hope this fall brings you meaningful time together, great conversations, and new memories with the people who matter most. Almir Sajtovic
CEDARHURST SENIOR LIVING | FALL FLOURISH 2026 1
CONTENTS
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IN THE SPOTLIGHT Honoring the dedicated Cedarhurst teammates who uplift our communities with their core values. GROWING WITH PURPOSE New communities and cottages expand the Cedarhurst experience to more residents and families.
HER CROWNING MOMENT Ginger Briscoe earned the crown during a joyful celebration at Cedarhurst of West Plains. TASTE OF THE SEASON Crafted by Cedarhurst ® brings new seasonal flavors to the table while keeping choice at the heart of every dining experience. BEYOND THE CALENDAR How Cedarhurst creates meaningful moments of connection, purpose and joy tailored to each resident. SHARING HER LIGHT A family book signing brought generations together through stories, creativity and connection at Cedar Creek of Logansport. RETREAT RECAP Celebrating leaders and award winners shaping Cedarhurst’s mission and core values. A DECADE TOGETHER Cedarhurst of Jacksonville celebrates 10 years of relationships, memories and meaningful connections. HELPING FAMILIES REMEMBER Candice Stonebraker turns her senior living experience into a heartfelt resource for children and families. WALKING TOGETHER Cedarhurst communities came together across eight states to walk, give and support the fight against Alzheimer’s.
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DREAMS TAKE FLIGHT One unforgettable weekend brought Cedarhurst dreams, adventure and connection to life in St. Louis.
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BEYOND THE PURPLE HEART Two veterans at Cedarhurst of Blue Springs reflect on service, sacrifice and what it means to be remembered. FAITH FINDS A HOME A weekly Bible study at Cedarhurst of Lebanon leads to friendship, renewed faith and an unforgettable baptism. LIVING TRUE Explore all the vibrant activities in our communities. Stay connected on social media for updates! WHERE CONNECTION GROWS A love of butterflies becomes an experience that brings the Cedarhurst of Yorkville community together. THE NEXT CHAPTER Lifelong librarian Barbara Pace finds purpose, connection and community among the shelves at Cedarhurst of Hamburg.
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FLOURISH ® – A CEDARHURST PUBLICATION 300 HUNTER AVE., SUITE 200 ST. LOUIS, MO 63124 FLOURISH@CEDARHURSTLIVING.COM CEDARHURSTLIVING.COM
WRITTEN BY: RYAN DAVIS, CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
DESIGNED BY: DANIEL BRIAN ADVERTISING
ON THE COVER: CEDARHURST OF ARNOLD’S RICK KINNEY, DAN CHARLEVILLE, HELEN COOK & LOIS DURBIN
Now Open!
CEDARHURST OF LINCOLN Cedarhurst of Lincoln is now open at 7095 Pine Lake Road, offering 63 Assisted Living apartments and 26 Memory Care suites. The thoughtfully designed community features a movie theater, landscaped courtyards and spaces for wellness, recreation and social connection. Residents also enjoy chef-inspired, all-day dining through Crafted by Cedarhurst and personalized experiences through Living TRUE, Cedarhurst’s resident-focused life enrichment program. CEDARHURST OF SHAWNEE Now open, Cedarhurst of Shawnee is a newly built community offering Assisted Living and Memory Care in a welcoming, thoughtfully designed setting. Residents enjoy personalized support, spacious apartments and amenities including an on-site theater and salon. Crafted by Cedarhurst provides flexible, all-day dining, while weekly housekeeping and a pet-friendly environment help residents spend more time enjoying the people, experiences and activities that matter most.
7095 Pine Lake Rd. Lincoln, NE 68516
(531) 278-8141 CedarhurstLincoln.com
6920 Lackman Rd. Shawnee, KS 66217
(913) 912-6544 CedarhurstShawnee.com
INDEPENDENT LIVING COTTAGES AT CEDARHURST OF FRANKFORT
The new Independent Living Cottages at Cedarhurst of Frankfort offer a maintenance-free lifestyle designed for greater freedom, convenience and connection. The 32 cottages provide residents with the privacy and comfort of their own home while offering access to the services, amenities, activities and social opportunities that are part of the Cedarhurst lifestyle.
21507 Wolf Rd. Frankfort, IL 60423
(779) 324-5045 CedarhurstFrankfort.com
INDEPENDENT LIVING COTTAGES AT CEDARHURST OF TOPEKA
The new Independent Living Cottages at Cedarhurst of Topeka offer a maintenance-free lifestyle with the comfort and privacy of home. The 34 cottages feature thoughtfully designed living spaces while giving residents convenient access to Cedarhurst services, amenities and social opportunities. Residents can enjoy greater freedom to spend their time on experiences and activities that matter most.
6732 SW 17th St. Topeka, KS 66615
(785) 730-2775 CedarhurstTopeka.com
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We are proud to pay tribute to the following dedicated teammates whose efforts propel Cedarhurst forward. They consistently elevate our communities to new heights.
Victoria “Vickie” Kasprzak Victoria is someone residents, families, and team members know they can always count on. No matter how busy the day is, Vickie makes time to listen, support, and help others feel valued. Her warm smile and approachable nature create an environment where people feel comfortable sharing questions and concerns. Thoughtful and deeply empathetic, Vickie often recognizes what others need before they even ask. Her compassion, reliability, and commitment to finding meaningful solutions strengthen the entire community and make a lasting difference each day. Resident Care Manager, Cedarhurst of McHenry
Clayton Walden Clayton put his hair—and beard—on the line for a great cause! As part of the community’s “Cuts for a Cause” fundraiser, Clayton pledged to shave both if residents and team members raised $500 for the Alzheimer’s Association. They answered the challenge, raising more than $800. With the community cheering him on and the salon stylist donating her time, Clayton followed through—complete with a Super Mario-inspired celebra- tion afterward. His willingness to have a little fun for an important cause brought everyone together while making a meaningful difference. Environmental Services Director, Cedarhurst of Tesson Heights
Rachel has made a remarkable impact through her leadership, reliability, and passion for serving residents. When the community found itself without a dining director, Rachel stepped up without hesitation, taking ownership and helping transform the dining experience. Her strong work ethic and heartfelt commitment are reflected in every meal she prepares, earning frequent praise from residents for both the quality of the food and the warmth she brings to the dining room. Through her dedication and care, Rachel creates experiences that nourish both body and spirit. Dining Services Director, Cedar Creek of Warsaw Rachel O'Brien
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Anita McLaughlin Concierge, Cedarhurst of Jacksonville
For 10 years, Anita has been a familiar and beloved presence at Cedarhurst of Jacksonville. From Resident Assistant and Housekeeper to her current role as Concierge and Driver, Anita has brought a genuine love for people to everything she does. Residents, families, and team members know her for her kindness and thoughtful spirit. That generosity shines each Christmas, when Anita gives every staff member a personalized gift she has spent the year selecting. Her decade of service, caring heart, and commitment to others have helped shape the community Cedarhurst of Jacksonville is today.
Kristen Hostmeyer
Senior Regional Director of Nursing, Cedarhurst Senior Living
Kristen brings passion, expertise, and collaboration to every community she supports. A trusted resource for clinical teams, Kristen is well-versed in regulations across multiple states and readily provides guidance to those navigating the complexities of senior living. She is especially committed to developing Directors of Nursing new to Cedarhurst, helping them build confidence and connect with the right resources. Kristen also works closely with legal and regional clinical teams to strengthen policies and processes. Her knowledge, leadership, and willingness to support others make her an invaluable resource across Cedarhurst.
Renee Montague Concierge, Cedarhurst of O'Fallon
Renee has been an invaluable source of stability and support during the community’s transition to Cedarhurst. Her deep knowledge of the community, combined with the trusted relationships she has built with residents, families, and team members, has helped make the transition a welcoming one. Renee greets everyone who walks through the doors with a warm smile and genuine kindness, always ready to answer a question or lend a hand. Her approachable nature, willingness to help, and commitment to those around her make Renee a true gem and an important part of the Cedarhurst of O’Fallon family.
Alyssa Becker Executive Director, Cedarhurst of Bethalto
Alyssa’s journey with Cedarhurst reflects her leadership, dedication, and continued growth. She joined the organization in 2020 as Director of Community Relations before advancing to Sales Specialist in 2022 and Assistant Executive Director in January 2025. In August, Alyssa was promoted to Executive Director at Cedarhurst of Bethalto. Throughout each role, she has embraced new challenges while building strong relationships with residents, families, and team members. Alyssa embodies Cedarhurst’s core values through her positive approach, commitment to others, and willingness to lead by example.
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One unforgettable weekend in St. Louis brought together big dreams, new adventures and a Cedarhurst resident who was finally ready to take flight.
As the Cedarhurst Senior Living hot air balloon began to rise above Forest Park in St. Louis, Karen Lindner turned toward the ground with a smile and waved.
Below, friends and family waved back.
For Karen, a resident of Cedarhurst of Tesson Heights, it was a moment years
in the making. She had climbed aboard a hot air balloon once before, but that balloon was tethered to the ground and never went anywhere.
This time was different.
Karen was taking flight during the Great Forest Park Balloon Race as part of Cedarhurst’s Dream Come TRUE ® program, choosing the experience in remembrance of her mother-in- law, Rose Marie. “I was so happy I got to go up in the balloon in memory of her,” Karen said afterward.
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The weekend also highlighted another way residents at Cedarhurst of Tesson Heights have turned an idea into an experience all their own. On Friday evening, eight members of the community’s resident-led cheer team took the main stage at Emerson Central Fields. In front of the Balloon Glow crowd, the team performed two cheers before dancing to “Dancing Queen,” bringing plenty of energy and an enthusiastic response from the crowd. Karen is a member of the cheer team herself. She also serves as a Resident Ambassador at Tesson Heights, and adventure has long been part of her story. She and her husband, Michael, spent six years participating in the Senior Olympics, competing in bowling, shuffleboard, miniature golf and bocce ball. Her story captured plenty of attention throughout the weekend, too. Karen shared her excitement about the upcoming flight with all three St. Louis television stations, FOX2, KSDK and KMOV, as cameras followed the story leading up to Saturday’s race.
Her flight capped a weekend in St. Louis built around a fitting theme for Cedarhurst: Where Dreams Take Flight. Throughout the Great Forest Park Balloon Glow and Race, Cedarhurst invited visitors to think about dreams of their own. At the Cedarhurst booth, guests wrote something they hoped to experience or accomplish on colorful hot-air-balloon cards and added them to a growing Dream Wall.
By the end of the weekend, 300 dreams covered the wall.
Some were ambitious. Others were wonderfully simple. Each represented something meaningful to the person who stopped long enough to write it down. More than 1,000 people visited the Cedarhurst booth Friday evening alone, part of an estimated 90,000 people who attended the two-day event.
But when Saturday arrived and it was finally time to climb aboard, Karen did not hesitate.
There were no signs of nerves as she climbed into the basket and prepared for takeoff. Her son Johnathan, who also lives at Cedarhurst of Tesson Heights, was there to watch, along with fellow residents and members of the Tesson Heights team.
For Cedarhurst, the idea behind the wall mirrored something happening every day across its communities.
Then, the balloon lifted from the ground.
“Dream Come TRUE is about learning our residents’ stories, their passions and the things that are meaningful to them, and then finding ways to bring those experiences to life,” said Ryan Davis, Cedarhurst Corporate Communications Manager. “Every dream is different. It’s about creating meaningful experiences and memories for our residents and their families.”
Karen waved to everyone below before turning her attention to a view she had never experienced before.
Her favorite part?
Seeing Forest Park from above.
“The pond was so pretty,” Karen recalled.
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The adventure was not over when the balloon came back to earth. After navigating around trees and wires near a subdivision, the balloon made a landing before the chase crew could reach them. Neighbors came outside and helped hold the balloon down until the crew arrived. It was another memorable chapter in a day Karen will not soon forget — one that included meeting people throughout the event and even joining all the balloon pilots for dinner after the race. Karen's flight was one of more than 50 Dream Come TRUE experiences Cedarhurst will help make happen in 2026, including seven hot- air-balloon rides. Other residents have gone skydiving, experienced NASCAR rides and pursued adventures inspired by their own interests and stories. For Davis, Karen's weekend captured exactly what the program is meant to celebrate. “Karen is a great example of what Dream Come TRUE is all about because this experience was personal to her,” Davis said. “She had been in a balloon before, but it never left the ground. This time, she got to actually take flight in remembrance of Rose Marie.” For one weekend in Forest Park, hundreds of people stopped at the Dream Wall and imagined where their own dreams might take them, while getting a glimpse of what Cedarhurst is all about: celebrating each person’s story, passions, and possibilities.
Karen got to find out.
And this time, there was no tether holding her down.
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CEDARHURST SENIOR LIVING | FALL FLOURISH 2026 9
Scan here for Barbara's Fox56 Segment
For Barbara Pace, finding the right book for someone has always been about more than locating a title on a shelf.
Along the way, a librarian named Lynn Herrick helped Barbara see that her interests could become something more. "She guided me toward thinking that I could become a librarian," Barbara said. "She showed me the skills she used to help a library run smoothly and taught me how to determine what kinds of books should be in a library based on the needs and interests of its visitors."
It is about the smile that follows.
Barbara has spent much of her life surrounded by books, beginning with a childhood love of reading that quickly grew into something more. She enjoyed sorting and organizing her own books, sharing favorites with friends and helping classmates find information they needed for homework.
Decades later, Barbara thought her days as a librarian were behind her.
Years later, that natural inclination to help others would become a career.
Then she visited Cedarhurst of Hamburg.
During her first tour of Cedarhurst, Barbara shared that she had spent her career as a librarian. The response was immediate: “Good! We need a librarian!”
Barbara began working as a library technician in Germany, where she served military families at an Army library. She later worked in a medical library in Washington before moving to Kentucky, attending library school at the University of Kentucky and continuing her career as a librarian.
Barbara was immediately intrigued.
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"My first thought was, 'Wow, they have a library!'" she recalled.
loved reading. As her eyesight declined, however, she believed reading was something she could no longer enjoy. Barbara led her to the library's collection of large- print books. The resident's face immediately lit up and she eventually read every large- print book the library had.
In fact, she became so interested in exploring the library and its collection that she realized she had barely paid attention to the rest of the community during her tour. She had to go back and see everything she had missed.
But Barbara already knew something important.
"I realized right then that this was home."
"I love seeing the smiles on their faces and the joy in their eyes when they find a book by an author they love," she said. "I imagine them curled up in their favorite chair, completely immersed in the story." More Than Books The library Barbara helps care for isn't only a place to find something to read. Residents come for different activities, conversations and companionship.
A Familiar Purpose
Today, Barbara once again has a library to care for and people to help.
The collection at Cedarhurst has largely grown through donations from residents, creating shelves that Barbara believes tell a story of their own. Mysteries, histories, romances and other genres reflect the different personalities and interests of the people who call Cedarhurst of Hamburg home.
"The collection is a reflection of the people in the community," Barbara said. "Together, they help create a well- rounded collection of knowledge and experiences."
Barbara compares the library to the living room of the home where she grew up, a comfortable gathering place where reading and conversation naturally brought people together. That feeling extends beyond the library. It's there at breakfast, as friends discuss the weather and their plans for the day. It's found throughout the community and in the team members who make Barbara feel welcome. For someone who has spent a lifetime helping others find their next story, Barbara has found a pretty good one of her own. And she encourages others to keep searching for theirs. "Look for something new every day to keep your mind active," Barbara said. "The library provides a place to discover something new and gives you the time and opportunity to explore many different adventures through books."
For Barbara, tending to that collection has also rekindled something she thought she had left behind in retirement. "It has given me a reason to get up every day instead of staying in my apartment and doing nothing," she said. "It has rekindled my love of helping people find what they are looking for and making their lives more interesting."
One interaction in particular showed Barbara just how meaningful that could be.
A fellow resident with poor eyesight came into the library and told Barbara how much she had once
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Beyond the Purple Heart Two Cedarhurst of Blue Springs veterans reflect on service, sacrifice and what it means to be remembered.
For Francis H. Winsor and Elliott Dan Pemberton Jr., the memories of Vietnam span more than six decades. Their memories are filled with friendships forged during difficult circumstances, the bonds they formed with those who served beside them and experiences that have stayed with them ever since. For both men, the return home came with little of the recognition afforded to veterans today. But on Purple Heart Day this August, the two Cedarhurst of Blue Springs residents experienced something much different. The Cedarhurst of Blue Springs team brought together residents, families, fellow veterans, and members of the greater community for a special ceremony honoring Francis and Dan—not only for how they served, but for the lives and stories behind that service. For Francis, that story began in 1963 in the small town of Easton, Kansas. Looking for something beyond his hometown, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps alongside his friend Paul through the “Buddy System.” The friends went through basic training together in San Diego before their paths separated. Francis
continued training in California before his service eventually took him overseas.
In April 1965, Francis arrived in Vietnam, where his unit made an amphibious landing at Da Nang Bay. He remembers helping fellow Marines who struggled to swim to shore. He also remembers the smaller moments that reveal how deeply the men depended upon one another. With food scarce, the Marines sometimes combined their rations in their helmets so everyone could share what little they had. “We may not have wanted to be in that war, but we did it,” Francis said. In December 1965, Francis was wounded by shrapnel from a grenade. He returned to Camp Pendleton to complete his service before finally heading home.
Like many Vietnam veterans, Francis
remembers returning to a country deeply divided over the war. Through it all, he said, the servicemen continued to have one another.
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Nearly 50 years later, his unit reunited in Las Vegas in 2012 and received an official welcome home. “It was a great feeling,” he recalled. “An honor to see all of my buddies again after all those years.” Dan’s path to Vietnam began differently. A schoolteacher before being drafted into the United States Army, he arrived in Vietnam in May 1969 and initially served with the 4th Battalion, 47th Infantry Regiment of the 9th Infantry Division. For four months, he lived aboard a Navy LST anchored in the Mekong River, departing on assault missions aboard “Tango Boats.” Dan later transferred to the 5th Battalion, 60th Infantry, serving from a base camp in Rach Kien in the Mekong Delta. During combat operations, his willingness to put himself in harm’s way to help others earned him two Bronze Stars with “V” device for valor. In July 1969, Dan crossed exposed terrain under fire to aid wounded soldiers and evacuate them to safety. Two months later, he again exposed himself to enemy fire while attempting to reach his mortally wounded platoon sergeant during an intense attack. Dan went on to receive two Army Commendation Medals with “V” device and two Purple Hearts after being wounded in combat in August 1969 and again in March 1970. He also earned his sergeant’s stripes while serving in the field before returning home in April 1970.
Francis felt much the same.
“I was truly grateful,” he said. “It was nice that my friends and family were here to celebrate with me.” Today, a simple “thank you” carries special significance. Francis says his service taught him to be loyal and hardworking, while Dan’s experiences strengthened his faith and helped shape the life that followed. Both hope younger generations continue listening. Francis hopes they understand the sacrifices made while never having to experience a war like his generation did. At Cedarhurst of Blue Springs, the Purple Heart Day celebration was about more than recognizing military service. It was an opportunity to better know the people behind that service—to listen to the experiences that shaped them and make sure their stories continue to be shared. For Francis and Dan, recognition today cannot change the welcome they received decades ago. But surrounded by friends, family, neighbors, and team members, it can remind them that their service—and the stories they carry—have not been forgotten.
Because every Cedarhurst resident arrives with a lifetime of experiences worth knowing. Behind Francis and Dan’s medals and uniforms are friendships forged, sacrifices made and stories that deserve to live on.
Like Francis, the recognition waiting for Dan decades later stood in stark contrast to his return from Vietnam. That history made the Purple Heart Day ceremony at Cedarhurst of Blue Springs even more meaningful.
Surrounded by people who came together specifically to listen, remember and honor their experiences, Dan’s family described “pure joy” on his face.
Scan to watch FOX4's coverage of their story.
Faith Finds a Home A resident-led Bible study becomes a source of friendship, purpose, and one unforgettable milestone at Cedarhurst of Lebanon.
Every Wednesday morning, a familiar group gathers in the
introduce himself and invite him to Wednesday's gathering.
Four Seasons Room at Cedarhurst of Lebanon. Bibles are opened, hymns are sung, prayer requests are shared, and neighbors encourage one another through faith and fellowship. For nearly six years, resident Ralph Calhoun has led the community's non- denominational Bible study—a ministry that began with a simple question shortly after he and his wife moved to Cedarhurst. Having previously taught Bible study at another senior living community, Ralph asked if he could continue that tradition at Cedarhurst. What started with just four or five residents has grown into a weekly gathering of nearly 20 participants who come together to worship, learn, and support one another. "Our residents want to continue their faith in God," Ralph said. "We reinforce each other each week." That spirit of fellowship has become one of the group's defining characteristics. When new residents move into the community, Bible study members make a point to welcome them personally. That's exactly what happened when Ray Bohannon arrived at Cedarhurst.
"I immediately noticed he became emotional," Ralph recalled. "He said, 'I will be there.'" Ray quickly found more than a Bible study. He found friendship, encouragement, and a place where he felt at home.
"I like his message. I like the way he talks," Ray said of Ralph. "I like the lessons that he brings and everything about it. I like Ralph." As Ray continued attending each week, his faith deepened. After accepting Christ during one of the Bible study gatherings, he shared with Ralph that he wanted to take the next step in his spiritual journey by being baptized.
Ralph stopped by Ray's apartment to
Because Ray had previously suffered a stroke and faced mobility challenges, traveling to a church baptistry wasn't practical. The Cedarhurst team, however, wasn't focused on the obstacles—they were focused on making Ray's wish a reality. Executive Director Kimberly Douglas, Life Enrichment Director Justin Stephens, Ralph, and Ray's family came together to create a plan. The community's Assisted Living spa, with its walk-in therapeutic tub, would become the setting for a baptism surrounded by family, friends, fellow residents, and team members. "It was important for our team to honor Ray's wishes because his baptism was deeply meaningful to him," Kimberly said. "We wanted to help make this important moment a reality by bringing the baptism to him."
Moments like Ray's baptism remind us that wellness extends beyond physical health. It also includes supporting each person's emotional, social, and spiritual well-being while honoring what matters most to them. By listening to Ray's wishes and finding a way to make them possible, the Cedarhurst of Lebanon team ensured an important milestone in his faith journey could be celebrated in the place where he had found friendship, encouragement, and belonging. It all traces back to a simple conversation years ago, when Ralph asked if he could lead a Bible study. What began with just a handful of residents has grown into a thriving weekly gathering where friendships are formed, prayers are shared, and newcomers are welcomed with open arms.
Justin, who also serves as an ordained deacon, performed the baptism.
"It was important to Ray because he loves it here," Justin said. "He wanted to do it around friends and family in the place where he made his decision."
For Ray, it became the place where he rediscovered his faith.
For everyone who witnessed his baptism, it was a beautiful reminder that caring for the whole person means honoring not only physical needs, but also the beliefs, relationships, and moments that give life its deepest meaning.
The intimate ceremony filled the spa room with smiles, tears, prayers, and an overwhelming sense of joy as Ray publicly celebrated his renewed faith in the community he now calls home. What had been designed as a place for healing the body became, for one afternoon, a place of healing for the soul.
For everyone present, it was an emotional celebration.
For Ray, it was unforgettable.
"I felt blessed," he said. "I really did. I felt like I was somebody special. I still feel that way to this day. There's nothing about that day that I didn't enjoy."
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WEST PLAINS, MO
NEWBURGH, IN
BEAUMONT, KY
Living TRUE A Journey through Cedarhurst’s Vibrant Communities
BLUE SPRINGS, MO
FORT WAYNE, IN
BLUE SPRINGS, MO
FARMINGTON, MO
BETHALTO, IL
WOODSTOCK, IL
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Don't forget to follow your local Cedarhurst community too!
HIGHLAND, IL
McHENRY, IL
COLUMBIA, MO
ST. CHARLES, MO
SALINA, KS
DYER, IN
WENTZVILLE, MO
LINCOLN, NE
CEDARHURST SENIOR LIVING | FALL FLOURISH 2026 17
It Takes a Community One team member’s love of butterflies has blossomed into an experience that brings residents and team members together at Cedarhurst of Yorkville.
For several weeks this summer, there was always something new to see at Cedarhurst of Yorkville. Tiny caterpillars grew a little bigger. Chrysalises began to form. Eventually, butterflies emerged, ready for the moment residents and team members had been anticipating — release day.
“I enjoy hummingbirds and butterflies and am always showing the residents pictures of hummingbirds that come to my feeders,” Angie said. “I thought it would be fun to give the residents something to look forward to every few days, something we could talk about and watch.” Last year, the community raised five butterflies. The experience was such a hit with residents, families and team members knew they had to do it again.
By then, everyone was invested.
Residents gathered outside to give each butterfly a proper sendoff. Those who participated received a “Budding Entomologist” certificate, complete with the name they had given their caterpillar. Then came the best part. Angie Lewis, Director of Nursing at Cedarhurst of Yorkville, carefully placed a butterfly into a resident’s hand and waited. Sometimes it immediately fluttered away. Other times, it lingered on a hand or landed on a shirt, giving everyone a few extra seconds to enjoy the moment.
This year, they went bigger — raising 20.
Over several weeks, residents watched the caterpillars eat and grow before forming chrysalises and eventually emerging as butterflies. Rather than being confined to a scheduled activity, the experience traveled throughout the community. Angie brought the caterpillars to exercise programs, kept them near the front desk and visited residents individually in their apartments so they could see the latest developments. Assisted Living residents joined in the fun, too. That ongoing interaction is part of what made the experience special.
“Just pure joy,” Angie said. “It makes it all worth it.”
The celebration marked the culmination of the community’s second year raising butterflies — an idea that began with one of Angie’s own interests.
“It turns out to be weeks long versus just an hour-long activity,” Angie said.
For residents living with memory loss, Angie believes there is something particularly meaningful about an experience that can be enjoyed exactly as it is happening. “It’s very in the moment,” she said. “You do not have to remember what happened yesterday to enjoy it that day.”
And when other team members see leaders getting
involved, Angie hopes it sends a simple message.
“It doesn’t matter what department or title you have,” she said. “Anyone has the ability to make someone’s day.”
Sometimes, those moments even unlock stories. Residents have reminisced about gardening and shared other memories inspired by what they were seeing.
Kristen sees that philosophy come to life when team members outside of Life Enrichment approach her with an idea of their own or ask if they can lead an activity.
Creating meaningful experiences for residents, she believes, belongs to everyone.
For Life Enrichment Coordinator Kristen Recchia, the experience is a reminder that a sense of wonder doesn't have an age limit. “Many of us share the experience of catching butterflies when we were children,” Kristen said. “Who is to say we can’t experience that joy again at any age?” But perhaps what makes Yorkville's butterfly project most special has little to do with butterflies at all. Angie is a nurse. Her primary responsibility is ensuring residents receive excellent care. But to her, caring for someone extends beyond their medical needs. “I want them to feel comfortable and connect with me outside of the nursing role too,” Angie said. “It helps build relationships.” Residents remember her for the butterflies. They remember when she brings her
That might mean raising butterflies. It could be bringing in a beloved pet, sharing a hobby or simply sitting down for a conversation. Angie’s advice to team members who have something they love and wonder whether residents might enjoy it too?
“DO IT!” she said. “You never know who you will connect with by doing it.”
At Yorkville, it started with a handful of caterpillars.
A few weeks later, there were butterflies taking flight — and an entire community gathered to watch them go.
dog to visit. Those shared interests become conversation starters and opportunities to know one another differently.
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Life Enrichment Is More Than a Calendar At Cedarhurst, meaningful engagement isn't measured simply by attendance. It's about discovering what brings each resident joy, purpose and connection — and creating opportunities for those moments every day.
Walk into a senior living community and it can be easy to think of Life Enrichment as what appears on the activity calendar — the outings, exercise classes, games, celebrations and other programs scheduled throughout the week. At Cedarhurst Senior Living, that's only part of the story. “Life Enrichment is more than keeping a person busy,” said Tara Burrow, Director of Education and Engagement at Cedarhurst. “It isn't only about entertaining a crowd in the activity room. It's about honoring the individual, one interaction at a time.” For the past two years, Cedarhurst has been intentionally expanding its approach to Life Enrichment around a simple understanding: What makes one person's day meaningful may look completely different for someone else. For one resident, enrichment might mean joining friends for a scheduled program. For another, it could be reading a book, tending to a garden, crocheting or sharing a conversation
over dinner. It might be helping prepare for an activity, welcoming a new neighbor or simply spending time with a team member who has taken the time to get to know them. Cedarhurst begins learning what those moments might look like through each resident's Life Story, which helps team members understand their interests, experiences and preferences. That process continues through one-on-one conversations, resident council meetings and surveys — because interests and needs can change over time. The result is an approach designed to meet residents where they are rather than expecting every resident to engage in the same way. At Cedarhurst of McHenry, that philosophy can be found in the community's library. Resident Barb Lambke had the idea to transform an existing loft into a more formal library — and then took ownership of making it a welcoming place for others. She
Barb Lambke
George Young
Karen Zmrhal
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says doing so thoughtfully is more important than simply increasing the number.
puts different books on display, waters the plants, adds fresh flowers and introduces new residents to the space. After reading her newspaper, she leaves it in the library for someone else to enjoy.
An enriching moment, after all, can't be defined the same way for everyone.
“It's anything that brings someone joy,” Burrow said. That individualized focus has helped Cedarhurst expand from approximately 167,000 tracked enrichment opportunities in 2024 to 192,000 in 2025, with approximately 205,000 projected for 2026.
At Cedarhurst of Woodstock, it recently sounded like music.
After learning that new resident Karen Zmrhal had once been a choir director and missed playing the organ and piano, the team brought out a keyboard and invited her to play. Soon, Karen was making music again while other residents gathered to listen.
But for Burrow, success isn't found in a participation total.
“She was in heaven,” said Life Enrichment Director Dawn Haymond.
It's found when a resident says they love living at Cedarhurst because they have a role to play. It's in the relationships formed over meals, the conversations in the lobby and the resident who finds purpose by welcoming others, helping set up an activity or leading one themselves. “These are the moments I know that we have made a difference,” Burrow said. “We have provided something special to that resident that didn't fit in the typical box of scheduled group activities.”
The moment helped Karen feel more comfortable in her new home — and may only be the beginning. She has already talked about starting a choir at the community. At Cedarhurst of Dyer, resident George Young discovered an artistic talent that has grown into an opportunity to help others. Today, George creates art projects and portraits while also leading art groups and helping fellow residents with their own work. Those moments illustrate another important part of Cedarhurst's philosophy: Life Enrichment is for all — and created by all. It isn't solely the responsibility of a Life Enrichment Director. Executive Directors host activities each week, managers lead monthly programs, caregivers and concierge team members assist with evening activities and outings, and team members throughout the community build relationships through everyday conversations and interactions. Cedarhurst tracks those different forms of engagement — scheduled group programs, one-on-one experiences and independent activities — with a goal of helping every resident experience at least two enriching moments each week. Eventually, Cedarhurst hopes to increase that goal to four, but Burrow
Because a full calendar can offer plenty of things to do.
A life enriched is about discovering what matters to the person living it.
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Comfort, Choice and a Taste of the Season Crafted by Cedarhurst ® brings new seasonal flavors to the table while keeping choice at the heart of every dining experience.
There is something about fall that makes familiar flavors feel especially inviting. As temperatures cool, comforting dishes, seasonal ingredients and the tastes residents know and love begin making their way back to the table. At Cedarhurst, those seasonal favorites are part of a dining experience built around something that never changes: choice. Through Crafted by Cedarhurst®, residents can choose from daily featured entrées or explore a wide variety of options available throughout the day. Breakfast favorites, salads, sandwiches, burgers, soups, pizzas and other selections provide flexibility to order what sounds good in the moment. Many items can also be customized, giving residents even more ways to make each meal their own.
“Our goal is to develop recipes that are approachable, visually appealing and well-suited for the changing season, while continuing to provide variety and value for our guests,” Christian said. That balance between familiar favorites and something new is at the heart of Crafted by Cedarhurst. A resident might choose the seasonal entrée one day and a favorite sandwich the next. They might enjoy breakfast for dinner, customize an omelet or pair a featured entrée with a preferred side.
The choice belongs to them.
Because while the seasons, and the menu features, may change, Cedarhurst’s approach to dining remains the same: offer residents great food, plenty of variety and the freedom to choose what sounds good today.
Seasonal menu development adds another layer to that variety.
“As we transition into the Fall and Winter seasons, our recipe development focuses on creating comforting, flavorful dishes that highlight the warmth and richness associated with the colder months,” said Christian Gullet, Corporate Executive Chef for Cedarhurst Senior Living. Chef Christian and the Cedarhurst culinary team look to seasonal ingredients and classic flavors for inspiration, while finding creative ways to make familiar dishes feel fresh and exciting. One of the newest examples is Roasted Turkey Breast with a Cranberry Glaze. Tender roasted turkey is paired with a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze for a dish that captures familiar flavors of the season with a fresh approach.
Scan to explore Crafted by Cedarhurst ®
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From the Kitchen with Chef Christian
Bring a taste of the season to your own table with this comforting recipe from the Crafted by Cedarhurst ® kitchen. Roasted turkey breast is seasoned with rosemary and paired with a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze for a combination that feels familiar, festive and full of fall flavor. Featured as part of Cedarhurst’s Fall and Winter menu, this recipe reflects Corporate Executive Chef Christian Gullet’s approach to seasonal dining: start with familiar flavors, add a fresh touch and create something meant to be enjoyed together. Roasted Turkey Breast with Cranberry Glaze Ingredients • Turkey Breast: 1 (3-pound) boneless turkey breast, thawed • Herb Butter: 3 tablespoons softened butter, 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper • Cranberry Glaze/Sauce: 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, ½ cup orange juice, ¼ cup honey or brown sugar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water • Prep the Turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Mix the softened butter, rosemary, salt, and pepper into a paste, then rub it all over the turkey breast. Place the turkey in a baking dish. • Roast: Roast the turkey in the oven for 1 to 1.5 hours. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. • Make the Glaze: While the turkey roasts, combine the cranberries, orange juice, and honey in a small pot over low heat. Stir in the cornstarch and water mixture. Simmer for 15 to 25 minutes until the cranberries pop and the liquid thickens into a glossy glaze. • Rest and Serve: Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Spoon the warm cranberry glaze over the sliced turkey. Directions • Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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A Crown, A Celebration, and a Whole Lot of Joy
Cedarhurst of West Plains was filled with smiles, laughter, and plenty of excitement as 15 residents took center stage for the community's 2026 Ms. Cedarhurst Pageant. Designed to celebrate the women who call Cedarhurst home, the pageant brought together residents, families, and team members for an afternoon focused on confidence, connection, and joy. Family members helped participants prepare for the event, while team members worked behind the scenes to make each resident feel special. When the judges announced Ms. Ginger Briscoe as the 2026 Ms. Cedarhurst Queen, she was caught completely by surprise.
event that made every participant feel valued and celebrated. According to organizer Kim Harralston, the goal was never just to crown a winner. "We wanted to make each lady feel special," she said. "We invited everyone to participate and worked with families to help make the day memorable." Each participant received a rose, and multiple trophies were awarded to ensure every resident was recognized. Throughout the afternoon, bright smiles filled the room as families gathered to celebrate their loved ones. "What stood out most were the residents' smiles," Kim said. "We made each one feel as special as possible."
"I was very surprised," Ginger said with a smile.
For Ginger, one of the most meaningful parts of the experience was simply participating alongside her fellow residents and having family members help her get ready for the big day. Hearing cheers from loved ones, friends, and neighbors made the moment even more memorable. When asked what she would say to someone who believes pageants are only for younger people, Ginger's answer was simple: "That is wrong. It's for anybody who wants to do it."
The celebration concluded with a champagne toast, and the joy created that day remained evident long after the crowns and trophies had been handed out. As Kim summed it up, the event created "so much joy" for everyone involved.
The pageant was organized by Cedarhurst of West Plains team members who wanted to create an
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