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Apr 15, 2013

(Omaha, Neb.) – The Good Samaritan Society – Millard is humbled by the generosity and kindness of its many volunteers. One volunteer in particular, Mike Tucker (pictured at right), has so openly and graciously shared his heart with residents and friends at the campus that staff members have nominated him for a national award.

The Salute to Senior Service contest is an annual event hosted by Home Instead Inc., part of a national network of in-home senior care providers. The contest is a way to recognize seniors for the impact they make in their communities.

The Good Samaritan Society – Millard has nominated Mike Tucker for the Salute to Senior Service contest. Here is why staff member Erica Brock believes Mike is a deserving recipient:

Mike Tucker has been a major contributor to our Senior College program, which allows our residents and seniors from the community in enroll in free educational classes. The Senior College courses cover a variety of topics, including painting, travel, technology and humor, and allow participants to stay mentally active in a welcoming social environment.

During Senior College sessions, Mike helps transport participants to and from the classes, provide refreshments before and after classes, and assist with any issues that may arise during the classes. As a former school principal, Mike highly values education; his support at Good Samaritan Society – Millard helps us provide quality, fulfilling and fun lifelong learning opportunities through the Senior College program.

Apr 12, 2013

Sing to Him, sing praises to Him; tell of all His wondrous works!  – Psalm 105:2

By Charley Falmlen
Resource Development Director, Good Samaritan Society – St. Johns

(Kearney, Neb.) – It is not every day that a critically acclaimed musician performs for Good Samaritan Society – St. John’s residents. Grammy award-winning songwriter Jim Salestrom has recorded and performed with John Denver and Kenny Rogers. His performances with Dolly Parton’s band have appeared on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, The Academy Awards, and two HBO specials. He has performed in 23 different countries and for four U.S. presidents.  

When Jim came to St. John’s recently, however, he was known as Jan Salestrom’s son. Jan, a St. John’s resident, sat in the front row and beamed while Jim strummed his ukulele and sang an endearing rendition of Somewhere Over The Rainbow.

Left: Jim and Jan Salestrom

Back in Jan’s room after the performance, Jim handed his mom a copy of a guitar magazine in which he was highlighted.

Apr 05, 2013

Marguerite Upham with Dietary Supervisor Yvonne Kleppe during a special holiday meal

(West Union, IA) - When Marguerite Upham moved to Good Samaritan Society – Cedar Court Senior Apartments seven years ago, she knew she’d be well taken care of for many years to come. The 102-year-old West Union native appreciates a place that doesn’t just remind her of home; it is home.

Mar 22, 2013

(Wamego, Kan.) – Gilbert and Gladys Wille are featured on WIBW.com for celebrating their 79th wedding anniversary. Click here or the image above to watch the video about their lasting love.

Mar 19, 2013

Click here to view Stillwater's Drum Circle in action.

(Stillwater, Minn.) – Tuesday’s weekly schedule at Good Samaritan Society – Stillwater has been shaken up with a new group: Drum Circle!

Music Therapist Michelle Sieben facilitated drum circles in the past, so Music Therapist Christy Holland encouraged her to add Drum Circle to the activities calendar.

What is Drum Circle? The simple answer is, “We sit in a circle and play drums.” On the surface, Drum Circle is very noisy and a little chaotic, but there is much more happening than what is immediately visible. Goals and benefits of this group are numerous.

Several of the drums are very colorful and eye-catching. The lead drum sets a deep and stable rhythm, to which everyone else adds. Participants listen to each other and respond appropriately. For example, if the lead drum slows or quietens, everyone adapts their playing to match. As the lead builds to a crescendo, all follow. In this respect, Drum Circle creates an instant community, which can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation.