The Fourth of July is one of the biggest days of the year for Americans, and the nation’s birthday was a big one for residents at communities all across The Arbor Company.
Arbor Terrace of Athens (Athens, Ga.) celebrated Independence Day for the week leading up to the holiday. The fun festivities, all of them safe, senior-friendly and socially distanced, included patriotic arts and crafts, games and an All-American cookout-style lunch with a menu featuring Coney Island hot dogs and Georgia peach pie.
The highlight of the week came on July 3, with a drive-thru parade featuring family members, motorcyclists and some very peppy special guests, the University of Georgia cheerleaders. All of the vehicles were decked out with patriotic flair, and residents wore masks and red, white and blue accessories as they waved flags while watching the parade.
Residents and staff members alike enjoyed the festivities.
“Seeing the residents’ faces and the smiles that were on their faces brought me tears of joy,” said staff member Shica Wright.
Resident Marilyn Farmer caught sight of some familiar faces in the parade.
“We were honored to have many old friends in the parade, including: Sid Cohen, former Arbor Terrace Chef of many years; two former mayors, Doc Eldridge and Nancy Denson; along with current Rep. Houston Gaines (Athens-117),” Farmer said. “We had the motorcyclists and service dogs, which I thought were very nice. Many families and friends joined in. We had a wonderful time celebrating Independence Day! It was a great idea.”
Resident Martha Walker expressed her appreciation to The Arbor staff for putting together the event.
“What a fun day!” Walker said. “Thanks to all the Arbor staff for giving us such a fun time outside!”
The “Athens Banner-Herald” sent out a photographer to capture the excitement. View the newspaper’s online photo gallery.