“I live in Keizer and unfortunately our annual Keizer “Iris” Fest has been cancelled,” Scott Mills, originally from England truly understands the traditions of the US culture continues “Sadly, our world has changed, hopefully on the temporary side” Mills said with a slight smile “Events are getting cancelled right, left and center due to COVID-19. If we look positively, sometimes we must change the way we do things”.
Mills, who works for Signature Healthcare at Home decided to band together with the senior communities in Keizer that included; Emerald Point, Village at Keizer Ridge, Willamette Lutheran Retirement, The Arbor at Avamere Court, Avamere Court at Keizer and The Oaks at Sherwood Park to make a difference. “The Keizer Fest is something our seniors always look forward to especially because it is during the Iris blooming season and there is a parade! So, we decided to bring part of the festival to them.”
Mills went to Schreiners Iris Gardens and spoke with Liz, one of the owners, and after hearing the story wanted to chip in and help. On Friday, May 15th, which would have been the start of the Keizer Fest, they were able to give 700 Keizer senior residents an Iris. “Although we weren’t able to see the end result because of restrictions and social distancing, we were still aware of how many smiles we put on their faces.” Said Mills “A simple act makes such a difference.” Leah, the activities Director at Emerald
