National Chocolate Day, carryout meals on Tuesdays and musical entertainment

On July 7, staff members received a chocolate candy bar of their choice for National Chocolate Day.

Each Tuesday, residents vote on a restaurant or carryout meal for lunch.

"This is divided up during the month per hallway because we have so many guests," Laurels Activity Director Sonjia Allonas said.

Three musical entertainers visit each month.

Recent performers include Chief and the Tribe, Nate Wieland and Ophelia Ramirez-Mailloux. "Our guests loved the beat and their voices," Allonas said. "We for sure will have them back soon."

Guitarist Mark Staicer performed for the memory care unit and in the activity room. “Our guests love him and we look forward to seeing him back,” said the activity director.

The staff is planning sight-seeing trips for residents.

"We  have been busy with outside visits and getting ready for bus tours to  see the many changes in the city as well as bingo, ice cream sandwiches,  ice cream bars and popsicles," Allonas said.

Beer and wine were served July 16 during a celebration of tattoo art.

Smucker's Day

Festive preparations were underway on July 19 as the Laurels of Mount Vernon held Smucker's Day.

The J.M. Smucker Co. donated Smucker's bags full of their products to all of the residents, Allonas said.

"We had strawberry smoothies and Swedish meatballs using the amazing Smucker's products that we purchased from the store," she explained. "Our guests loved it."

Other activities the week of July 19 included Taco Bell carryout and a hot dog fundraiser, with hot dogs, chips and pop for staff.

Church services return

After months of social distancing, the Laurels is once again offering in-facility church services two days a week.

"We are so excited to have church back in our building," Allonas said. "We are greatly blessed that Bob and Linda Arnold come to our facility each Wednesday for church service."

On Sundays, Jim Young officiates the service.