Residents enjoy a stroll through the park
Some of our Health Center residents recently enjoyed a break in the winter weather to take in the sights and sounds of historic Tower Grove Park.
The tour included visiting the park’s 12 pavilions and more than 7,000 trees across the 289-acre park - on a day that never dipped below freezing, despite having snowed just a few days beforehand. The blanket of fresh snow made for remarkable viewing in the park.
For resident Rose Neher, the visit reminded her of the past.
“I remember coming here with my family for picnics,” she said.
But Rosalie Eickhoff said the park tour was something completely new to her.
“I have never been to Tower Grove Park before, and I love hearing about the history.”
According to the park’s website, Tower Grove Park was founded on October 20, 1868, as a gift from St. Louis Merchant Henry Shaw to the city of St. Louis. At that time, there were only 11 parks in the city. The only conditions Shaw imposed on his gift were 1) that it “shall be used as a park forever,” and 2) that an “annual appropriation” be made by the city “for its maintenance.”
Today the park is the only public city park in St. Louis managed by an independent board of commissioners. u
Threesecretsto longevity
When asked about his secret to a long life, resident Gene Beatty shared three key insights
“Fresh air, exercise, and two ounces of bourbon every day,” proclaimed Gene, who turns 103 on March 5th.
He also admits that he might be motivated in part by a competitive spirit.
“My sister lived to be 104 and I am determined to make it to 105 so I can say I beat her,” he said.
Gene’s son Jerry said that the family has been planning a get together to celebrate another birthday for their father.
Gene served as a Radioman in the Navy during World War II, and later built a career as a music teacher in Kirkwood and Webster areas. His hobbies include toy trains and, naturally, listening to music.
Gene has two children, six grandchildren, and a dozen great grandchildren. u
Chocolate takes center seat at celebration
When planning how to celebrate Jim Stice’s 101st birthday party on Jan. 6th, his daughter Susan knew there was one thing that had be on the menu - chocolate.
“We had to have a big old chocolate cake for dessert because he is a chocoholic,” Susan said. “We had enough to feed an army. It was dark chocolate with chocolate chips and a chocolate ganache filling and big frosting dollops on top.”
The cake was big enough that Jim got to enjoy leftovers for a week, and Susan’s brother from Atlanta was able to take some home to the grandchildren.
In addition to the cake, Jim also enjoyed a dinner of Walleye from a local restaurant.
“Dad used to fish for them in Canada,” Susan said. “It was one of his favorite catches, and we wanted his dinner to include a fun little hook.”
Jim celebrated his birthday with a small gathering of family - the big gathering happened the year before on his 100th birthday. He received a University of Missouri sweatshirt - a token of his alma mater, where he earned a degree in journalism - and was able to take in a playoff victory by the Kansas City Chiefs.
Chocolate, however, ruled the day. “Walleye fishing, golf, and chocolate were his hobbies,” Susan said. “I’ve about been excommunicated from the family because I like vanilla.” u
A nice lunch gathering
Life Enrichment Assistant Elizabeth Jordan, Assisted Living residents Dave and Jane Browman, Lorraine McCully, and Carol McSweeney sat down for a nice lunch at The Walnut Grill in Sunset Hills, Missouri.
The weather was a bit gloomy, but they didn't let that stop them from enjoying their day out - and Carol McSweeney couldn't wait for her Bloody Mary! u
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Fax: 913-599-3810
505 Couch Ave.
Kirkwood, MO 63122-5536
AberdeenSeniorLiving.com
Community Matters
is published quarterly for residents and friends of Aberdeen Heights
by Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America, Inc., a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization.
To submit or suggest articles: kemontgomery@pmma.org
Christie Wolff, executive director
Tony Altobella, health care administrator
OUR MISSION: To provide quality senior services guided by Christian values.
Helpingourselves
Devin Ward, Dietary Aide, jumped in to help with a special action station at Assisted Living's dinner - Made to Order Pasta.
Toppings included chicken, shrimp, mushrooms, peppers, sun dried tomatoes, onions, and a variety of cheese options.
Residents could come up to Devin and choose their toppings, then watch it be prepared right in front of them! This made for a delicious and exciting dinner.
We really appreciate Devin’s effort to help with this great event! u
