We are proud to recognize Jeannette Franklin as the recipient of the Heart of Dedication Award for April 2025!

Jeannette was nominated by her peers with high praise, describing her as “a hard worker who goes above and beyond to get goals accomplished.” Whether it’s taking initiative on projects, helping teammates without hesitation, or stepping in where needed, Jeannette is a shining example of what it means to be committed to both her work and her team.

Her consistent positive attitude and team player mindset set the tone for those around her. She brings kindness, reliability, and drive to every task—big or small.

Congratulations, Jeannette! Your dedication does not go unnoticed, and we are so grateful to have you as part of our team. Thank you for everything you do!

Break Time, Upgraded: Grand Reopening of the Employee Break Room

This week marked an exciting moment for our team as we celebrated the grand reopening of our newly remodeled employee break room—with walking tacos and big smiles all around!

The transformation is nothing short of amazing. With brand-new floors, stylish furniture, modern cabinetry, and a sleek new sink setup, the space has been completely refreshed to create a comfortable and inviting retreat for our hardworking staff. Thoughtful decorations add warmth and personality, turning the break room into a place where positive vibes flow as freely as the coffee.

To kick things off, we hosted a walking taco lunch—because no celebration is complete without good food and great company. It was the perfect way to bring everyone together and show our appreciation for the team that keeps everything running.

This remodeled space is more than just a room—it’s a reflection of how much we value our people. We hope it serves as a daily reminder that your hard work matters, and your well-being is a priority.

Here’s to well-deserved breaks, good conversations, and a refreshed place to recharge. You’ve earned it!

Manager Cornhole: A Showdown to Remember: 15 Teams, 1 Champion

This past weekend, 30 facility department managers and assistants gathered for a spirited cornhole tournament that brought out the best in competition—and laughter. With 15 teams formed, the energy was high from the first toss to the final bag.

The tournament followed a single-elimination format, meaning every match counted—and the stakes got higher with each round. As the brackets narrowed, it all came down to the thrilling championship match between Nicolai & Dance and Kendrick & Veronica.

The final game was fast-paced and intense, with both teams showing impressive aim and coordination. But in the end, Kendrick and Veronica pulled ahead, clinching victory with a score of 11 to 8 in what many called “a quick match for the ages.”

From high-fives to friendly rivalries, the event was filled with fun, cheers, and great memories. Whether people came for the competition or just to hang out and watch, everyone walked away with a smile.

We’re already looking forward to next year’s tournament—who will take the crown next time?

Congratulations to Jeannette – April’s Heart of Dedication Award Winner!

We are proud to recognize Jeannette, a valued Environmental Services worker, as the April 2025 Heart of Dedication Award winner at Manhattan Nursing and Rehabilitation Center LLC!

Jeannette’s commitment to excellence and unwavering work ethic make her an irreplaceable member of our team. Whether she’s ensuring a clean and comfortable environment for our residents or supporting her coworkers, Jeannette brings heart and professionalism to everything she does.

Her strength, team-first attitude, and remarkable consistency do not go unnoticed. She never complains, always shows up with a positive spirit, and sets an example for all of us through her dedication and care.

Thank you, Jeannette, for going above and beyond every single day. We’re lucky to have you, and we celebrate you for your outstanding contributions this month and always.

Congratulations, Jeannette—you truly embody the heart of dedication!

Hoppin’ Into Fun: Easter Egg Hunt for Our Amazing Staff!

Spring has sprung, and so has the spirit of celebration at Manhattan! This Easter season, we wanted to show our appreciation for the incredible dedication and compassion our staff brings every single day—so we organized a special Easter Egg Hunt just for them!

Colorful eggs were hidden throughout the facility, adding a touch of fun and surprise to everyone’s workday. But these weren’t just any eggs—some held sweet treats, while others contained something even more exciting: gift cards to local shops and restaurants!

The golden eggs were especially popular, each one packed with a little extra joy in the form of bonus prizes. Whether you found a candy-filled egg or struck gold with a gift card, we hope this event added a bit of springtime cheer.

Thank you for all our team members do for our residents and for making this community so special. We loved seeing your smiles and excitement—you deserve every bit of fun!

Here’s to more moments of joy and appreciation all year long!

Heart of Dedication Award – March 2025: Sally Jackson

We’re proud to shine the spotlight this month on an extraordinary team member whose dedication and heart have made a lasting impact: **Sally Jackson**, our LPN Unit Manager and Employee of the Month for March 2025!

Sally began her journey with us all the way back in 1985, bringing with her not only professional excellence but a deep compassion for the residents she serves. Over the years, she has become a cornerstone of our care team, leading by example and consistently going above and beyond to ensure that every resident receives the highest quality care.

Her commitment to resident satisfaction and quality outcomes is unmatched. Whether she’s mentoring new staff, checking in on residents with a warm smile, or finding ways to improve care processes, Sally always puts her whole heart into the job. Her passion and professionalism continue to inspire everyone around her.

Sally, thank you for nearly four decades of dedicated service, leadership, and love. Your unwavering work ethic and compassion truly make a difference every single day. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!

This past Tuesday, we had the pleasure of welcoming visitors to our **Open House** at Manhattan Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, and what a wonderful event it was! Families, community members, vendors and prospective residents joined us for an inside look at our community, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the turnout and support.

**Event Highlights**

✨ **Guided Tours:** Guests enjoyed a personal look at our facility, including our beautifully maintained common areas and a special showcase of a vacant private room, giving them a glimpse of the comfort we provide our residents.  Recently we made several additions to highlight a home like environment such as our renovated living room, dining room, and day rooms.

🤝 **Meet & Greet:** Visitors had the chance to connect with our department leaders and caregivers, learning firsthand about the dedication and passion behind our care.

🏡 **Remodeled Areas:** Many attendees were impressed by our recently updated spaces, designed to enhance both comfort and engagement for our residents.

🍽 **Delicious Refreshments:** Our culinary team delighted guests with a variety of delicious food and beverages, making the experience even more enjoyable.

The positive feedback we received was overwhelming, and we are thrilled to have had the opportunity to showcase what makes Manhattan Nursing and Rehabilitation Center such a special place. Thank you to everyone who attended and to our incredible team members for making this event a success!

If you couldn’t make it but would like to learn more, we’d love to arrange a personal tour for you. Contact us to schedule a visit!

At Manhattan Nursing and Rehabilitation, we take pride in the compassionate and hardworking individuals who make our community feel like home. This month, we are thrilled to highlight **Mya Lee** a recent hire in our Social Service Position, a dedicated member of our team who is committed to ensuring our residents receive the support and care they deserve. She will be responsible for assisting third floor and first floor residents.

**Meet Mya Lee**

Mya earned her Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Southern University and A&M College in Baton Rouge, LA, in 2020. Her passion for healthcare stems from personal experience—she remembers a time when she didn’t have the help she desperately needed. Since then she has made it her mission to ensure that no one, especially the elderly, feels unsupported.  Mya is passionate about making every resident feel comfortable, valued, and cared for. Her goal is not only to provide exceptional support but also to grow in her profession and continue making a meaningful impact in the lives of those she serves.

**Why Healthcare?**

“I chose healthcare because I remember a time where I didn’t have the help that I desperately needed, and I never want that for anyone else,” Mya shares. “Specifically, the elderly, being that they’re the most vulnerable. I try to help as much as possible, even in areas I’m not as good in. You can rely on me to get the job done!”

We are so grateful to have Mya on our team. Her dedication, kindness, and work ethic truly embody the heart of [Nursing Home Name]. Thank you, Mya, for all that you do!

Join us in celebrating Mya and the incredible work she does!

We are excited to invite you to a special Open House at Manhattan on **February 25th, 2025**. Come and see the exciting updates we’ve made to enhance the comfort and well-being of our residents.

**Highlights of the day include:**

– A tour of our **newly remodeled dining room, living room, and common areas** — designed to create a warm, welcoming environment for both residents and families.

– A closer look at our **state-of-the-art Therapy Department** and the services we offer, including our **Short-Term Therapy** options to help residents recover and regain independence.

– Opportunities to meet our dedicated team and learn about the exceptional care and services we provide.

**Event Details:**  

**Date:** February 25, 2025

**Time:** 11AM-1:00PM

**Location:** 4540 Manhattan Rd, Jackson, MS 39206

We look forward to sharing these exciting changes with you and answering any questions you may have. Light refreshments will be served.

We hope to see you there!

Warm regards,

Nicolai Hooppaw

Executive Director

Manhattan Nursing and Rehabilitation Center LLC

This year’s Christmas party at our nursing facility was a truly special occasion—one that brought together staff, residents, and their families for an afternoon filled with joy, laughter, and plenty of holiday cheer. We decided to make this year’s festivities extra fun by incorporating some *Minute to Win It* games, and let’s just say, the results were as heartwarming as they were hilarious.

The day started with a festive atmosphere as the halls were decorated with twinkling lights, Christmas trees, and stockings. Residents and staff alike donned their holiday best, and the sounds of classic Christmas tunes filled the air. But the real excitement began when we kicked off the *Minute to Win It* challenges, designed to bring out everyone’s competitive spirit in a lighthearted way.

The best part? It wasn’t just the staff competing against each other, but residents joining in on the fun too! Some of them surprised us all with their hidden talents and quick reflexes, while others brought a smile to our faces with their infectious laughter and joy. Everyone, regardless of age or ability, participated in the games, making it a truly inclusive celebration.

It was a beautiful reminder that Christmas is about more than just decorations and presents—it’s about love, community, and sharing special moments together.

**A Truly Memorable Christmas Celebration**

The Christmas party at the nursing home wasn’t just about the games, the presents, or even the delicious holiday snacks. It was about creating moments that brought us all closer together—staff, residents, and families. It reminded us that even in the simplest of activities, we can find joy and make memories that last a lifetime.

As the event ended, there were smiles all around, and many of the residents were already asking when the next party would be. We can’t wait to see what next year’s celebration will bring, but we know one thing for sure: the *Minute to Win It* games will definitely be back!

This year’s Christmas party at our nursing facility was a truly special occasion—one that brought together staff, residents, and their families for an afternoon filled with joy, laughter, and plenty of holiday cheer. We decided to make this year’s festivities extra fun by incorporating some *Minute to Win It* games, and let’s just say, the results were as heartwarming as they were hilarious.

The day started with a festive atmosphere as the halls were decorated with twinkling lights, Christmas trees, and stockings. Residents and staff alike donned their holiday best, and the sounds of classic Christmas tunes filled the air. But the real excitement began when we kicked off the *Minute to Win It* challenges, designed to bring out everyone’s competitive spirit in a lighthearted way.

The best part? It wasn’t just the staff competing against each other, but residents joining in on the fun too! Some of them surprised us all with their hidden talents and quick reflexes, while others brought a smile to our faces with their infectious laughter and joy. Everyone, regardless of age or ability, participated in the games, making it a truly inclusive celebration.

It was a beautiful reminder that Christmas is about more than just decorations and presents—it’s about love, community, and sharing special moments together.

**A Truly Memorable Christmas Celebration**

The Christmas party at the nursing home wasn’t just about the games, the presents, or even the delicious holiday snacks. It was about creating moments that brought us all closer together—staff, residents, and families. It reminded us that even in the simplest of activities, we can find joy and make memories that last a lifetime.

As the event ended, there were smiles all around, and many of the residents were already asking when the next party would be. We can’t wait to see what next year’s celebration will bring, but we know one thing for sure: the *Minute to Win It* games will definitely be back!

We are thrilled to introduce Ashley Mahoney as the newest member of our leadership team here at Manhattan Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. With her extensive experience in office management and commitment to delivering exceptional service, Ashley is here to ensure that all administrative and financial aspects of our operations run smoothly. She has spent the last year as the Assistant Business Office Manager developing her skills and knowledge.

She will be overseeing billing, trust fund, insurance inquiries, and general administrative tasks, and will be a key point of contact for both families and staff regarding financial matters. We are confident that Ashley will be a valuable asset to our team and to our residents and families.

Please join us in welcoming Ashley Mahoney to our community!

This year’s Thanksgiving celebration at our nursing home was truly one to remember, filled with warmth, laughter, and heartfelt moments shared between residents, their families, and the dedicated staff. It was a day of giving thanks, cherishing memories, and creating new ones together.

The atmosphere was filled with holiday cheer as the dining hall was beautifully decorated with autumn-themed centerpieces, pumpkins, and vibrant fall leaves. Residents and their families gathered around tables, eager to enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving feast, but this event was more than just a meal—it was a celebration of love, connection, and the bonds that unite us all.

A Feast to Remember

The highlight of the day was, of course, the Thanksgiving dinner. The kitchen staff went all out, preparing a spread that included all the traditional favorites: roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, stuffing, green bean casserole, and pumpkin pie. The smell of home-cooked comfort food filled the air, and everyone, residents and families alike, were eager to dig in and share the meal together.

We are glad to say that the dining room and living room were both filled to the brim with families and residents. As everyone sat down to enjoy the meal, there were smiles all around, with families reconnecting, residents sharing stories from past Thanksgivings, and laughter echoing through the room. It was a reminder of how much the little things, like sharing a meal with loved ones, truly matter.

Gratitude and Giving Back

To make the event even more special, residents and family members participated in a small gratitude activity. We invited everyone to write down something they were thankful for on a leaf-shaped card. It was heartwarming to see all the thoughtful messages of thanks: from appreciating family bonds to the simple joys of good health, the tree quickly became a vibrant reflection of the collective gratitude in the room.

As the day came to a close, there were hugs, handshakes, and promises to gather again soon. The event wasn’t just a Thanksgiving celebration—it was a chance to create lasting memories and strengthen the bonds between residents and their families. It was a day filled with gratitude, laughter, and love that will be cherished for years to come.

The Thanksgiving celebration at the nursing home was a testament to the power of community and the importance of family, especially during the holiday season. It reminded us all that even in the busiest of times, there’s always room for gratitude, connection, and celebration.

We’re already looking forward to next year’s Thanksgiving event, but in the meantime, we carry the spirit of gratitude and togetherness with us every day.

We are pleased to announce that Lawanda Welch has joined our team as the new Director of Nurses at Manhattan Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. With 30+ years of nursing experience, including extensive leadership roles in long-term care settings such as Director of Nurses, Medicare Utilization Review Nurse, and Clinical Operations Nurse, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to providing high-quality care to our residents.

Throughout her career, Lawanda has demonstrated a strong passion for nursing leadership, fostering collaborative teams, and ensuring the well-being of both staff and residents. Her approach is centered around compassion, professionalism, and continuous improvement in care practices.

We are excited to have Lawanda as part of our team and are confident that her leadership will further elevate the care we provide to our residents.

Please join us in welcoming Lawanda to our community!

We are excited to introduce Jason Mann as our new Assistant Executive Director. With over 20 years of experience as a Certified Therapeutic recreation Specialist, Jason brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for enhancing resident experiences. He has spent the last two years as a licensed nursing home administrator, where his focus has been on improving resident engagement and satisfaction. Jason holds a Bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation, which has helped shape his approach to creating meaningful and enriching activities for residents. We are confident that his expertise and dedication will make a significant impact in his new role. Please join us in welcoming Jason to the team!

Dear residents, families, and staff,

I am both honored and excited to introduce myself as the new Executive Director of Manhattan Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. With a strong commitment to providing exceptional care and fostering a supportive environment, I look forward to working alongside each of you to ensure our community thrives.

 Manhattan’s mission statement is comfortable, compassionate, care and my mission is to continue to build on the foundation of excellence that this organization is known for. While always striving to enhance the quality of life for our residents. I believe in open communication, teamwork, and innovation, and I am here to listen to your concerns, ideas, and aspirations. Together, we will create a place where both residents and staff feel valued, respected, and cared for.

I’m excited to get to know everyone and collaborate in achieving our shared goals. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or would like to introduce yourself.

Thank you for the warm welcome, and I look forward to working together for the betterment of our community.

Sincerely,

Nicolai Hooppaw

Executive Director

Manhattan Nursing and Rehabilitation Center LLC