Alex Norris
Sep 2026
There are so many staffers to honor at Merrill Gardens but I’ve chosen several who I find really outstanding at the work they do. I feel they need a little more than a simple mention for going above and beyond all the time.<br>Wendy our morning angel. She remembers everyone by name and always makes you feel special when she takes the time to thank you for coming to have breakfast with her! And boy can she whip up a terrific start for your day!<br>Kat must be exhausted by the end of the day because she moves in, out and about, showing her staff that she’s a leader by example! I’d never seen the dining room staff so alive and happy!<br>Luke! He has yet to misunderstand who his customers are. If he sees someone that may have been overlooked for anything he jumps right in and asks if they need a coffee refill, asks to make sure their order has been taken and if it’s taken a little more time than usual, he’s headed to the cook’s window to check on things! He’s always polite and has a kind, “How are you today”? for everybody. And he really means it!<br>Janice loves working at the front desk. If she doesn’t she sure is hiding a secret! Her wonderful good mornings, attention to unknown strangers walking in the front door with enthusiasm and her gentle, concerned nature is especially inviting!<br>Blake! He is key in finding and persuading new residents to join us at Merrill Gardens. Blake’s constantly guiding possible new residents on guided tours and he makes what he does look effortless even though we all know it can’t be. He was essential at bringing the 100% capacity to a reality. Finding the people who are the right fit for this community. We had a wonderful celebration recently to celebrate the 100% but he needs to be celebrated for the work he does daily!<br>I saved one of the best for last! Kristina!<br>She works herself to the bone to offer as many fun-filled, interesting, engaging activities as she can pack into the schedule month to month! She smartly holds meetings to make sure ideas that the residents have in mind can be shared with her. She’s inviting to the residents who want to offer help and try’s to involve every resident in one way or another. Either by participating in or being a part of an audience. Dreaming of ways to include and involve each and everyone!<br>Thanks goes to these and other staff members!
