Summer has a way of bringing people together.

As the days grow longer and brighter, so do the opportunities to connect. Whether it’s sharing a meal outdoors, enjoying music in the sunshine, or taking a moment to sit and talk with someone new, the everyday moments of summer provide lots of opportunities to connect with others.

This is our 60th edition of Connections, so it’s appropriate that it highlights the many ways people connect across our communities every day. In this issue we’re sharing a few great examples, including intergenerational visits (page 8), outdoor gatherings (page 17), and acts of kindness (page 9). Each story reflects how meaningful relationships continue to grow.

You’ll meet residents reconnecting with lifelong passions (page 16), teams coming together in support of one another, and communities creating spaces where everyone feels welcome. These connections contribute to wellbeing, bring comfort, and enrich daily life.

As you turn these pages, we hope you see yourself in these stories and are reminded of the small but powerful ways we can all stay connected this season.

We are always stronger together. Throughout the past year, I have had the opportunity to visit nearly all of our communities, and I continue to be inspired by the warmth, dedication, and sense of belonging that I see wherever I go. That spirit is especially evident during the summer months, when there are so many opportunities to connect. June was a meaningful time of recognition and celebration across our communities. Filipino Heritage Month, National Indigenous History Month, Pride Month, and Canadian Multiculturalism Day gave our teams opportunities to share experiences, stories, and traditions that strengthen belonging for residents, families, team members, and visitors.

June also marked an exciting new beginning with the opening of Adeline Hall, a new licensed long term care community for 144 residents in Bedford, N.S. The first residents moved in on June 29, 2026, and the team has been busy welcoming each resident and family into their new home. Milestones like this are meaningful not only for those directly involved, but for all of us at Shannex, as we continue to grow and create communities where people can feel at home and live fulfilling lives.

Alongside these larger celebrations, the past few months have also been filled with the everyday connections that matter just as much. As you read this summer issue, I hope you feel a sense of pride in the stories shared here and in the impact they represent. Thank you for the compassion, dedication, and spirit you bring to our communities each day. It is reflected throughout this milestone edition.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs 
• ¼ cup pure maple syrup 
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice 
• ½ teaspoon salt 
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried) 

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet or roasting pan with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towel and arrange them skin-side up on the baking sheet.
4. Spoon about two-thirds of the maple Dijon mixture over the chicken thighs.
5. Bake for 30 minutes, then brush with the remaining glaze. Continue roasting for another 10–15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through, and the skin is golden and slightly caramelized
   (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Spoon any pan juices over top for extra flavour.

As part of Health and Safety Week, team members at Parkland Clayton Park, N.S., demonstrated their commitment to safety by creating a short video focused on responding to a choking incident. The activity reinforced the importance of preparedness and calm action in critical moments. By learning and supporting one another, the team strengthened the connections that help keep everyone safe and confident.

Parkland at the Common, Halifax, N.S., celebrated the opening of its new outdoor terrace with a summer gathering filled with music. Residents enjoyed fresh bites, a signature Parkland Spritz, and lighthearted games, while a 50/50 raffle supported the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia. Located on the fifth floor, the terrace offers a comfortable mix of sun and shade, greenery, and views of the Halifax Common. This welcoming space is open daily for relaxation, socializing, and enjoying seasonal programs.

Team spirit was on full display at this year’s Moncton Dragon Boat Race, where the Faubourg du Mascaret team proudly improved its standing, finishing 6th overall, up from 7th last year. Twenty dedicated team members from Moncton, N.B., raised nearly $2,000 in support of the Lions Sick Children’s Fund Inc. and the Alzheimer Society of New Brunswick. With their strong sense of teamwork and commitment to giving back, they are already looking forward to next year’s race. 

During a friendly best two out of three game of cribbage, maintenance team member Troy Blancher and resident Donna Mitchell shared a moment of connection and friendly competition. By spending part of his lunch break with a resident, Troy exemplified the compassion and sense of community that make, Tucker Hall in Saint John, N.B., so special.

When a Parkland Truro, N.S., resident was unexpectedly admitted to the hospital, her beloved cat, Tommy, was left without anyone to care for him. Knowing how much Tommy meant to her, Client Services Assistant Grant Pardy stepped in.

Grant cared for Tommy as if he were his own, ensuring he was fed, groomed, and never alone. He arranged veterinary visits and made Tommy’s care part of his daily routine, even returning on days off to provide the same comfort and attention.

When it became clear the resident could no longer resume Tommy’s care, Grant welcomed Tommy into his home, where a strong bond quickly formed. His actions reflect the extraordinary lengths he went to support both a resident and someone she dearly loved.

A group lunch initiative at Monarch Hall in Riverview, N.B., is helping residents build new friendships and feel more connected. While residents enjoy welcoming dining experiences every day, this monthly gathering brings together four residents at a time for a smaller, more intimate meal designed to encourage new connections.

Held in a calm, comfortable setting with soft music and thoughtful table arrangements, the lunches provide an opportunity to enjoy good food, conversation, and meaningful connections. Residents have shared how much they value these gatherings, often speaking positively about the experience and looking forward to future invitations.

There’s something special about the moments we share with others, whether it’s a familiar conversation, a laugh over a favourite game, or simply sitting side by side on a sunny day. These everyday interactions may feel small, but they play an important role in how we feel, helping to lift our mood, ease stress, and keep our minds engaged. 

Sometimes, having someone to visit, share stories with, or spend time together can help bring those moments back into daily life. It’s not about doing anything extraordinary, it’s about companionship, consistency, and the comfort of knowing someone is there. Learn more at parklandathome.com

With gloves on and community spirit leading the way, residents and team members at Parkland Clayton Park, N.S., stepped outside for an afternoon of environmental care, collecting several bags of litter from the surrounding area while enjoying the fresh air.

At Cedarstone Enhanced Care, Truro, N.S., residents and team members also took part in a similar effort, coming together outdoors to help care for their local environment and make a positive impact. These activities offer a meaningful way to spend time outdoors, connect, and contribute to the world around us.

Moments, our team member appreciation platform, turns recognition into meaningful action. When Claire Mosher, Administrative Coordinator at Debert Court, N.S., received Moments points for her participation in the Random Acts of Green Challenge, she chose to use her recognition in a way that reflected what matters most to her: caring for the environment.

Through Dots.eco on Moments, Claire directed her points toward several climate focused initiatives with real, measurable impact. These included protecting 100 square feet of land for a nature reserve, helping save 10 sea turtle hatchlings, and removing five pounds of plastic from the ocean. A virtual scratch card revealed where these efforts were taking place around the world, creating a tangible connection between recognition and positive environmental change. 

With a wide range of options available, from environmental initiatives to personal wellbeing rewards, team members can use their Moments points in whatever way feels most meaningful to them. 

Arborstone Enhanced Care, Halifax, N.S., has been recognized nationally for excellence in the Appropriate Use of Antipsychotics. One of only 32 long term care communities across Canada to meet this standard, Arborstone is the only home in Nova Scotia to receive this recognition.

This achievement reflects a strong commitment to compassionate, person-centred care and evidence-informed prescribing practices that prioritize resident safety, dignity, and quality of life. Nationally, many long term care residents continue to receive antipsychotic medications without a diagnosis of psychosis, despite the associated risks.

“Being recognized for our work in the appropriate use of antipsychotics is an important milestone for us at Arborstone,” says Gabby Gaspar-Lidstone, General Manager. “It reinforces our focus on compassionate, individualized care, and our dedication to continuously improving practices that support resident wellbeing.”

This recognition highlights the leadership and clinical excellence demonstrated by the Arborstone team, alongside Dr. Lewis, Dr. Olabisi, Dr. Raju, and Dr. Couture, in supporting safer medication practices.

At Moody Hall, Halifax, N.S., a simple idea shared through Resident Council has grown into something meaningful for the entire community. Residents brought their vision to life with the opening of the “Snack Shack,” a canteen offering treats for residents, team members, and families.

The idea began when council members recognized that not everyone could easily visit local stores and wanted to create a more accessible option.

Guided by resident input, the Snack Shack reflects a shared commitment to choice and inclusion. Items are thoughtfully priced, with all proceeds returned to the Resident Council to support initiatives that enhance daily life at Moody Hall.

The canteen is proudly led by resident Linda Slaunwhite, whose dedication has been central to its success. More than a canteen, it’s a place where connection happens naturally through shared moments and conversation.

This Pride Month, Lorelei Sullivan-Hickey, Workforce Coordinator at Parkland West Bedford, N.S., introduced a simple but meaningful initiative, Pride flag and pronoun pins for team members across the community. The response was immediate and positive. What began as a small gesture quickly encouraged conversations about inclusion, respect, and self-expression, helping to strengthen a welcoming environment for everyone. 

With Pride celebrations continuing beyond the publication of this issue, we look forward to sharing more highlights and stories from across our communities in the next edition of Connections magazine.

Nearly a year of letter writing culminated in a memorable intergenerational gathering when students from Ocean View Elementary School visited their pen pals. Residents and students at Parkland at the Lakes, Dartmouth, N.S., spent the day enjoying games, bowling, conversation, and an ice cream social while getting to know one another beyond the pages of their letters. 

A special highlight was resident Adam Mueller’s cello performance, which inspired everyone to join in singing “O Canada”. The visit was a wonderful reminder of the friendships that can grow when generations come together.

Since joining Shannex in 2011, Hope has built a remarkable career grounded in compassion, dedication, and continuous learning. Starting as a Continuing Care Assistant at Thomas Hall, she spent 13 years supporting residents with kindness and respect while pursuing her Practical Nursing education. After graduating, Hope stepped into an LPN role that led her from Neill Hall and Frederick Hall back to Thomas Hall.

She later embraced the Restorative Assistant role, where she helped revive the sit-to-stand program, supporting residents to maintain mobility, independence, and quality of life. Today, Hope is continuing her journey as an RN student through the UNB Summer Institute Program, balancing work and studying with determination.

Her commitment to growth reflects her desire to provide the highest quality care. For Hope, Shannex has always been a place to learn, grow, and make a meaningful difference in residents’ lives. 

A simple idea became a moment no one will forget. Members of the Ocean Hall and Gordon Hall quilting groups in Moncton, N.B., gathered to create two handmade quilts as retirement gifts for Ocean Hall Community Manager Vivian Follett and Regional Manager Carole Morey. When the quilts were presented, there were tears, smiles, and joy in seeing how deeply their kindness was felt. 

While skilled hands carefully stitch each piece, with support from Grace Johnston, Recreation Coordinator, others came to sit together and enjoy one another’s company. With each stitch, connections are strengthened, creating a sense of belonging that extends beyond the quilts themselves.

Looking ahead, the quilters hope to continue gifting their work to team members and to extend that same warmth to the wider community through charitable donations. 

The Songwriter’s Circle at Opal Ridge Hall in Dartmouth, N.S., brings residents together to create original songs. Led by music therapist Kendall Jones, participants collaborate each month, sharing memories, stories, emotions, poetry, and musical ideas to craft lyrics and melodies in a supportive environment.

Together, they have been creating a song titled Good People Make Good Friends, exploring the meaning of friendship while building meaningful social connections through creativity and shared expression. 

On May 30, Edna Matthews celebrated her 99th birthday, joining her husband Bill, who is also 99. What an incredible milestone for this remarkable couple! Bill and Edna were among the first residents at Parkland West Bedford, N.S., and continue to be cherished members of the community. We wish Edna a very happy birthday and send our warmest wishes to both her and Bill.

As Kay Foster progressed, so did her care. Through physiotherapy and occupational therapy, she reduced pain, regained confidence, and rediscovered her abilities. “Every step felt like progress,” she said. 

Patients at West Bedford Transitional Health, N.S., are encouraged to take an active role in recovery, building independence through personalized plans and activities. For Kay, that included painting the recreation cart, a reflection of her journey through challenge toward the goal of going home. 

By the end of her stay, Kay felt stronger and ready to take control of her life. Her advice: commit to the process, and progress will follow. Looking ahead, she’s eager to return home, get back in the car, and explore Halifax once again. 

Adeline Hall has opened its doors in Bedford, N.S., warmly welcoming residents into a new place to call home. Thoughtfully designed to provide a welcoming and supportive living environment, the new home is located in our Bloomsbury community alongside our existing long term care home, Moody Hall. 

Team members, residents and visitors will enjoy the many unique spaces, such as our Main Street feature, which is designed to support connection, learning and quality of life. It will also be a home where our valued relationship with Dalhousie University, including the work of their new Research Chair, can continue to flourish through collaboration, innovation and a shared commitment to advancing care for older adults. 

Trish Arrowsmith is Adeline Hall’s General Manager. With personal and professional experience on what it means to live in long term care, she is focused on what matters most to families. 

My mother is in long term care, and when I leave after visiting her at Parkstone, I know she’s being cared for to high standards. I want families at Adeline to feel the same confidence. 

Each year, Nursing Home Week in New Brunswick, held from June 8 to 14, is a time to reflect with gratitude on the people who make our communities feel like home. We celebrate the dedication of team members who provide compassionate care each day and the residents who bring warmth and a true sense of belonging. 

At Losier Hall and Bridgeview Hall, Miramichi, N.B., this spirit came to life during the third annual carnival celebration along Main Street at Losier Hall. Residents, families, and team members from Bridgeview Hall and Parkland on the River gathered to share laughter and enjoy treats, a reminder that connection is at the heart of everything we do, especially during moments of celebration. 

At the core of Station Yards in Moncton N.B. is a simple idea: life should be lived in community spaces, where neighbours meet, walkable streets invite conversation, and shared spaces create opportunity for connection. 

Station Yards is a master-planned community in the heart of the city, designed for connection, active living, and everyday ease. Home to three Enhanced Care communities, Garraway, Gordon, and Ocean Hall, soon Station Yards will bring together residences, green spaces, and local amenities in one walkable, welcoming neighbourhood. Construction is expected to begin in Fall 2026. 

Creative Expressions

Each week at Monarch Hall, Riverview, N.B., residents explore their creativity through art using watercolours and acrylic paints, with their beautiful creations displayed in the Book Nook.

A Birthday Dance

A very special moment at Parkland Saint John, N.B., as resident Joyce Folkins celebrates her birthday with a heartfelt dance shared with her husband, Grant.

Nursing Week BBQ Celebration

 Pavillon Richard, Moncton, N.B., welcomed the Greater Moncton Chinese Association for a wonderful performance in honour of the Chinese New Year. 

Honuring Nurses Across Generations 

Current and retired nurses came together at Parkland Ajax, ON, for a nursing luncheon, celebrating their shared commitment and lasting impact on the community. Thank you for everything you do and have done.  

 ConnectingConversations 

The teams from Parkland Saint John and Parkland in the Valley, Quispamsis, N.B., visited St. Andrews for an afternoon of conversation about retirement living.  

Timeless Tunes

The Stepping Stones Troubadours delighted a full house of residents at Parkland Fredericton, N.B., with a lively performance featuring cherished classic favourites.

All Hands in Halifax

The Property and Support Services annual forum was held at Home Office, Halifax, N.S., bringing together team members from Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Ontario.

On a Roll

What better way to celebrate World Bicycle Day than feeling the wind in your hair? Residents of Vimy Court in Bible Hill, N.S., embraced the day on wheels.

National Fudge Day

Helpers and taste-testers at Caritas Residence, Halifax, N.S., prepared for National Fudge Day, crafting salted caramel fudge to deliver to all residents

Celebrating Their Great People

Parkland at the Lakes, Dartmouth, N.S., hosted a team social, offering team members a chance to connect and celebrate their great work. 

Games Across Generations

The Halifax Regional Police youth volunteer group hosted an evening of games, bringing together residents of Parkland at the Lakes, Dartmouth, N.S., together for a little competition and some great intergenerational moments.