By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Aster to celebrate National Assisted Living week
7282.jpg
Marion and Werner Feutz sit in their apartment at Aster in Monroe on Thursday, Feb. 11. Both Marion and Werner grew up in the small community of Hubbleton, Wi., and have known each other for 85 years. Since the first time they met, both had crushes on each other. The first official date they remember was going to the freshman prom together and Werner couldn't afford a corsage for her. The two eventually married in 1941. "He was the one and only," Marion said. Werner was a cheesemaker at a farmer-owned co-op cheese factory and Marion made ice-cream. Werner retired from cheesemaking in 1952 and then managed a farmer's and merchant's bank until 1975. The two have a son, Richard Feutz, and a daughter, Shari Voss. After retiring, the couple moved to Florida where they lived until 2005, when they moved to Waunakee, Wi. Throughout the years, they have traveled to Switerland, Germany,

MONROE — Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Aster Assisted Living in Monroe is celebrating National Assisted Living Week starting Sept. 13.

The week is celebrated each year beginning the Sunday following National Grandparents Day. Typically, employees at Aster will plan for week-long celebrations to include the residents, employees and the public.

Though they could not celebrate in the same fashion as previous years, it was important to find a new way to celebrate, Aster Sales and Marketing Coordinator Amanda Gerber said. 

“It’s important to take the time to recognize our residents and our team,” she said. “Not only the residents but their families also become a part of our family here.”

This year, the events being held are designed instead to keep residents and staff safe while still allowing for a fun celebration. All events will follow this year’s NALW theme of “Caring is Essential.” 

“We knew that we would get creative in some way,” Gerber said. “We would recognize this no matter what.”

Staff and residents at the assisted living center have been cautious to follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Department of Health Services guidelines and recommendations to keep those living there safe. 

Events throughout the week will include an outdoor tailgate party Sunday in honor of the Vikings at Packers game, various musical celebrations and presentations on travel, food and music.

To avoid bringing presenters into the building and up-close to the residents, they instead will be providing fact sheets sharing the information they would have.

Live music will be played outside so that residents can open their windows to enjoy it and cake and other celebratory snacks will be provided using door-to-door service.

Family members are encouraged to submit photos for residents to decorate their doors with as part of the celebration.