Westminster, Author at Westminster Communities of Florida

A groovy 1970s celebration marks 70 years at Westminster Oaks

Posted on June 7, 2024June 7, 2024 by Westminster

Residents, team members and local civic leaders marked the occasion in celebration of the organization’s 70 years of serving older adults

TALLAHASSEE, June 7, 2024 – With a groovy 1970s-themed party with tie-dyed shirts and a special celebration by Tallahassee Mayor Pro Tem Curtis Richardson, Westminster Communities of Florida celebrated its 70th anniversary of serving older adults with more than 200 attendees and guests at Westminster Oaks.

The organization, first established as a ministry of the Presbyterian Church (USA) as Presbyterian Homes of the Synod of Florida, began its service when the Life Plan Community today known as Westminster Manor opened in 1961. Westminster Oaks, its fourth community, opened in 1982 and is now the organization’s largest community, set on more than 120 acres with more than 600 residents. Today Westminster Communities of Florida has 23 communities spanning the state of Florida, serving more than 7,000 residents with 2,300 team members.

The party featured a tie-dyed homage to the 1970s in celebration of the organization’s 70th anniversary, including live entertainment with songs from the ’70s, a caricature artist and a photo booth with real strips of printed photos.

Shannon Sauls, Executive Director of Westminster Oaks, thanked the attendees with a word of welcome. “I am very proud of what this community has accomplished and I am thankful that we are all here celebrating our organization’s success,” said Sauls. “Throughout our history, one thing remains constant: Our Mission. It has always been centered around serving older adults, since 1954.”

“We are here today to celebrate a milestone that not many organizations get to celebrate: 70 years,” said Chief Executive Officer Terry Rogers. “We have never slowed down, not for one day since then, growing and serving older adults. We are so proud that we have so many residents here today, and we are happy to have you here at Westminster Oaks.”

Mayor Pro Tem Richardson represented the City of Tallahassee in presenting his remarks of congratulations. “We cherish the relationship that we share with Westminster Oaks in providing services to our seniors. “Now I have just a few brief remarks of congratulations to make.” Richardson said. “Over the past seven decades, Westminster Communities of Florida has remained steadfast in its mission to enhance the lives of its residents. This celebration is not just a reflection of past achievements, but is also a reaffirmation of the values that drive this organization forward.”

Following the ceremony, residents, future residents and team members enjoyed an afternoon of live entertainment, resident art and history exhibits, and even outdoor axe-throwing. Attendees enjoyed a variety of delicious breakfast treats provided by the Westminster Oaks Dining Services team.

Westminster Communities of Florida, the state’s largest not-for-profit provider of active senior living, emphasizes whole-person wellbeing for its older adult residents. With communities in Bradenton, Jacksonville, Lakeland, Orlando, St. Augustine, St. Petersburg, Tallahassee and Winter Park, the organization serves more than 7,000 residents statewide with a lifestyle featuring active living, wellness and lifelong learning.

Norma Christie King Balances Full-Time Job and Graduates with Honors from California Baptist University

Posted on June 4, 2024June 4, 2024 by Westminster

Alongside her full-time duties as Administrative Coordinator for Affordable Housing & Clinical Services at Westminster Communities of Florida, Norma Christie King has achieved a significant milestone by graduating from California Baptist University. Her pursuit of higher education over the last two years was supported by Westminster’s Tuition Reimbursement Program.

Current team members who enroll in courses at accredited institutions can take advantage of the program’s reimbursement benefit, which supports those seeking to advance their careers. After a rigorous two-year period, taking four classes each semester online alongside her full-time job, Norma has now obtained a bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership.

“At Westminster, there are opportunities for growth whether it be on-the-job training, learning from our high cadre of leaders, or through professional development at universities or community colleges,” Norma said. “The tuition reimbursement program helps cushion those stressful moments as you further your education!”

Despite the challenges of managing her studies and full-time employment, Norma’s consistently high grades each semester motivated her to keep up her efforts. Her dedication was recognized with her induction into the Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society, honoring her academic excellence and leadership among her peers.

“Norma did a beautiful job of balancing her professional workload and her studies simultaneously,” said Westminster Communities of Florida Human Resources Manager Donna Seide. “She is an integral part of our organization, and her performance did not budge while she was studying for her degree.”

Norma actively engaged in dialogues about different ideas and strategies with Donna and fellow team members.

“I received support not only from the Tuition Reimbursement Program, but also from various people that if I had an assignment I was doing, I would ask, ‘What do you think of this?’” Norma said. “I could share my ideas and I would learn something.”

Norma started a degree in business administration in Jamaica but switched to an associate degree when her husband fell ill. Following her husband’s passing, Norma sought the academic program that best aligned with her goals. After thoughtful consideration and prayer, she began her studies in organizational leadership in January 2022, leveraging credits from her associate degree while continuing her full-time job.

“Norma is driven, dedicated, and motivated. She demonstrates a high level of professionalism and ensures that any project she is involved with is executed flawlessly,” Donna said. “Aside from being a wonderful professional and co-worker, Norma shines in her role as a mother to her adult son, Jaime.”

Thanks to the Tuition Reimbursement Program, both Norma and her son were able to attend her graduation ceremony in California. Embodying a spirit of relentless pursuit of knowledge, Norma shared her philosophy, “My head is always open – I want to know, I want to learn.”

Her advice to others? “Never stop learning. Upgrade yourself at all times. Your personal development is what you have,” Norma said. This mindset not only propelled her through her academic challenges but continues to inspire her professional growth and personal achievements.

If you are interested in joining the team at Westminster Communities of Florida, serving seniors throughout the state, and pursuing your professional development goals, explore the opportunities available at https://www.WestminsterCommunitiesFL.org/careers today!

Westminster Lakeland Cuts Ribbon On New Name, Celebrates Joining Westminster Family

Posted on May 30, 2024May 30, 2024 by Westminster

Following a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, residents, team members and distinguished guests celebrate the community joining the Westminster Communities of Florida family

LAKELAND, May 30, 2024 – Today, Westminster Lakeland officially celebrated its new name and affiliation with Westminster Communities of Florida. The community, formerly known as Florida Presbyterian Homes, is a Life Plan Community serving more than 250 residents, and now part of the not-for-profit family of 23 communities throughout Florida.

Following a program of special remarks by distinguished guests such as Lakeland Mayor Bill Mutz, LeadingAge Southeast President Steve Bahmer and Westminster Communities of Florida Chief Executive Officer Terry Rogers, the community celebrated with a special ribbon-cutting and outdoor party.

The affiliation between Florida Presbyterian Homes and Westminster Communities of Florida was first announced in September 2023. These two not-for-profit organizations share a common Presbyterian heritage, and Westminster Lakeland was founded in 1955, just one year after Westminster Communities of Florida’s establishment in Bradenton in 1954.

“Today is a very special day in the history of Westminster, and I couldn’t be more pleased to call all of you family!” said Terry Rogers, Chief Executive Officer of Westminster Communities of Florida.

Executive Director Doug Pinson led the event as master of ceremonies, and he said that the entire Westminster Lakeland community had been enthusiastic to hold the celebration. “We’ve been waiting for this day to come for a ribbon-cutting,” Pinson said. “From the very bottom of my heart, thank you for being here today and celebrating with us. This is a very special time, and I couldn’t be more humbled to be a part of this and proud to be a member of the team.”

Meanwhile, Lakeland Mayor Bill Mutz celebrated the community’s extensive history in Lakeland. “This has been such a wonderful organization and community for so many years, and has been so life-enriching,” he said. “I am incredibly grateful that this community will be here for the future needs.”

Lucia Solomon, Westminster Lakeland’s Resident Council President, said that she was delighted to welcome all of those in attendance. “It is my pleasure to welcome you to Westminster Lakeland, a beloved community with a new name,” Solomon said. “Thank you for being here!”

The ceremonial ribbon-cutting was performed by Ms. Solomon. The ceremony also featured a blessing from the Rev. Dr. Etta Owens, chaplain at Westminster Lakeland, and a benediction from the Rev. Richard Huggins, a resident at the community.

Congratulations to Our 2023 Team Members of the Year and Volunteers of the Year

Posted on May 23, 2024May 23, 2024 by Westminster

On May 22, 2024, we were pleased to recognize the best of the best — our Team Members of the Year and Volunteers of the Year from throughout the state — at our Annual Awards Banquet at the Rosen Plaza Hotel in Orlando. These amazing individuals performed incredible acts of service and brought the Mission of our organization to life every day.

In addition, we congratulate our two CEO award winners, whose awards were announced by Chief Executive Officer Terry Rogers:

Adrina Hawkins, Westminster Towers Human Resources Generalist, recipient of the CEO Award
Dominick DeSarro, Vice President of Pharmacy Services, who received the CEO Mission Leadership Award

“Adrina has truly served from the heart since 1997,” Rogers said in presenting the award to Hawkins. “She is determined and never satisfied, and she is fun, energetic, compassionate and determined. She has good humor, good spirit and a strong faith. It is my honor to recognize Adrina Hawkins for the CEO Award for 2024!”

In addition, Rogers congratulated DeSarro for contributing to the fulfillment of Westminster’s Mission in presenting him with the CEO Mission Leadership Award. “We have returned over $5 million to our Foundation and our communities during your tenure, and those dollars are a significant way that we are able to fulfill our historic Mission. Thank you for your professional leadership.”

The evening’s master of ceremonies, Jeff Mock, CGC, a member of the board of Westminster Communities of Florida, also offered the ceremony’s invocation and benediction asking God’s blessings on the organization and all of our team members and residents throughout the state.

Congratulations to all the amazing people who make Westminster Communities of Florida a great place to live and work!

We also thank our banquet sponsors for their generous contribution to supporting this event. Thank you to Clancy & Theys Construction Company, Seni, TridentCare, Westminster Home Care and Westminster Pharmacy Services.

You can read all about our Team Members of the Year and Volunteers of the Year and their amazing stories in the booklet below.

6 Ways to Improve Your Overall Wellness This Summer

Posted on May 21, 2024May 21, 2024 by Westminster

During the warm summer months, it’s essential to not only relish the outdoor activities but also to prioritize your health, especially for seniors who might be more susceptible to the effects of heat and humidity. At Westminster Communities of Florida, we believe that well-being is more than just physical wellness. It’s the belief that in order to be “well” you must consider the entire being: body, mind and spirit. We take this to heart, and offer residents and team members an active and engaging lifestyle inspired by our exclusive MyWLife well-being program. Continue reading for more advice on how seniors can enhance their health and overall wellness during these summer months.

Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is crucial for good health. It regulates body temperature, lubricates joints, and protects the spine. Aim for eight glasses of water daily and adjust based on your needs. Factors like activity level, climate, and health affect fluid requirements. Avoid sugary drinks as they dehydrate and contribute to weight gain and choose water, herbal tea, or black coffee instead.

Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise is crucial for seniors in summer. High temperatures can worsen health conditions and increase heat-related risks. Opt for low-impact exercises like brisk walking, swimming, cycling and yoga. These activities improve cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles, and enhance flexibility. Seniors with limited mobility can try seated tai chi, resistance band arm exercises, or marching in place while watching TV.

Protect Your Skin
Protect your skin from sun damage by applying SPF 30+ sunscreen to all exposed areas. Reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Wear protective clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat, lightweight long-sleeved shirts and pants made from breathable fabrics.

Maintain a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is vital for seniors in summer. Include fresh fruits and vegetables for essential nutrients, fiber and a strong immune system. Leafy greens, berries and citrus fruits are especially beneficial. Choose whole grains for fiber, vitamins and minerals to support digestion and satiety.

Get Enough Sleep
During sleep, the body repairs itself, releases hormones, and consolidates memories. Seniors should aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night to maintain cognitive function, support immunity, and reduce inflammation. Establishing a relaxing bedtime routine can help seniors improve the quality of their sleep. This may include activities like taking a warm bath, reading a book, or practicing relaxation techniques.

Relieve Stress
Stress can harm physical and mental health. Relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga reduce stress. Pleasurable activities like reading, gardening, or spending time with loved ones distract from worries. Social activities foster community and purpose, reducing stress and promoting well-being.

Taking care of your health and well-being during the summer months is essential for seniors. By following these tips, you can optimize your overall well-being. Remember to listen to your body, adjust your habits based on your individual needs and prioritize self-care. By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can enjoy a healthy and fulfilling summer season.

When you choose to live at a Westminster community, you’ll have access to a plethora of well-being opportunities to exercise your mind and body. Learn more about the lifestyle you can enjoy and find the community near you today!

Outdoor 1950s-themed party and City of Orlando proclamation mark Westminster Towers’ celebration of our organization’s 70th anniversary

Posted on May 10, 2024May 10, 2024 by Westminster

ORLANDO, May 10, 2024 – With an outdoor, 1950s-themed party at Westminster Towers and a special proclamation of celebration from Orlando City Commissioner Patty Sheehan, Westminster Communities of Florida celebrated its 70th anniversary of serving older adults with more than 100 attendees and guests at Westminster Towers.

The organization, first established as a ministry of the Presbyterian Church (USA) as Presbyterian Homes of the Synod of Florida, began its service when the Life Plan Community today known as Westminster Manor opened in 1961. Westminster Towers, its third community, was founded in 1975 and affiliated with Westminster Communities of Florida in 1980. Today Westminster Communities of Florida has 23 communities spanning the state of Florida, serving more than 7,000 residents with 2,300 team members.

The outdoor party featured a 1950s theme to celebrate the organization’s founding in 1954. A DJ played hits from the era, and a late-’50s vintage Bentley car was the centerpiece of a photo booth for participants to get a souvenir.

David Randazzo, Executive Director of Westminster Towers, thanked the attendees with a word of welcome. “Today’s celebration honors our current residents, as well as the countless lives we have touched over the last 70 years,” said Randazzo. “Not only that, but there are many exciting things in store for the future.”

“I hope that today you will congratulate yourselves, too,” said Chief Executive Officer Terry Rogers. “To be around for 70 years is a huge accomplishment for our organization that was made possible by our Board of Directors and all of the stakeholders, especially residents like all of you. When you put it all together, our organization has had the opportunity to touch thousands and thousands of lives.”

Commissioner Sheehan brought a special Proclamation from the City of Orlando. “I am delighted to be here this morning and to see all of you here,” Sheehan said. In reading the Proclamation, Sheehan said that on behalf of herself and Mayor Buddy Dyer, “We… do hereby proclaim May 10, 2024, as Westminster Communities of Florida 70th Anniversary Day.”

Attendees also enjoyed an invocation by the Rev. Dr. Walk Jones, a chaplain who formerly served at Westminster Towers, and benediction from Rev. Dr. Paul Gibson, Associate Minister at First Presbyterian Church of Orlando. The event program featured highlights of the history of downtown Orlando by Rachel Williams from the Orange County Regional History Center, and congratulatory remarks from Resident Council President Gene Shoaf.

Following the ceremony, residents, future residents and team members enjoyed a morning of outdoor live entertainment and games at the community’s brand-new outdoor patio. Attendees enjoyed a variety of delicious breakfast treats provided by the Westminster Towers Dining Services team.

Westminster Woods on Julington Creek Celebrates Receiving Governor’s Gold Seal Award

Posted on April 23, 2024April 23, 2024 by Westminster

Community and local civic leaders marked the recognition by State of Florida leadership of excellence in quality of care

JACKSONVILLE, April 23, 2024 – Residents, team members and civic leaders marked a very special occasion at Westminster Woods on Julington Creek: Receiving Florida’s Gold Seal Award recognizing the community as one of Florida’s top providers of quality nursing care.

This prestigious award, which is awarded by a panel of experts and approved by the Governor of Florida, was given to only three communities in the greater Jacksonville area and only 12 total in the state. Westminster Woods on Julington Creek, a Life Plan Community, is one of the three. Communities recognized with the Governor’s Gold Seal must demonstrate excellence in long term care over a sustained period while promoting the stability of the profession and facilitating the physical, social, and emotional well-being of nursing center residents.

Health Services Administrator Andy Andre expressed his gratitude to the hard-working team members of the Nursing Center. “Thank you for the sweat and the tears that goes into producing great services that ultimately lead to this achievement,” said Andre. “Because of your work this entire event was possible.”

“This team has done such a great job of documenting your excellence, every detail day by day, moment by moment,” said Mark Niemeyer, Executive Director. He thanked his team for the challenging work they do every day that led to the award. “This award belongs to all of us here today,” Niemeyer said.

Joining the celebrations were St. Johns County Commissioners Roy Alaimo and Christian Whitehurst; Teresa Scott, CEO of Penney Retirement Community and a representative of the Governor’s Gold Seal Panel; and senior leadership from Westminster Communities of Florida, including Chief Operating Officer Garry Hennis, Senior Vice President of Operations Jim Polaski, and Chris Callahan, Regional Vice President of Operations.

Hennis observed that the award recognized a long period of excellence in quality care. “I commend the entire leadership team for leading the community to a new level of excellence,” said Hennis. “For years we have had very strong clinical leaders and the current team stands on their shoulders, while taking this to the highest level.”

Commissioner Whitehurst said that he and his family live in Julington Creek and know the community’s reputation, already stellar, would now be further improved. “My neighbors always say that when the time is right for them, ‘I wouldn’t mind living at Westminster Woods.’ So it seems fitting that you have received the Gold Seal Award from the Governor,” Whitehurst said.

Chaplain Leslie McCarrick offered a benediction: “We are blessed beyond measure, Lord,” she said. “Their work is their ministry and because they have given their best and continue to give of their best, our life at this community is made very rich indeed.”

Following the ceremony, the attendees enjoyed a brunch with a delectable menu provided by the Dining Services team, including a special carving station with roast beef, a smoked salmon salad, shrimp and grits, and an egg Florentine frittata.

\Westminster Woods on Julington Creek is a Life Plan Community ideally situated on more than 90 acres of woods and lakes along the half-mile wide Julington Creek, in suburban St. Johns County. We have served senior adults in Jacksonville for more than 60 years, with an emphasis on wellbeing and Lifelong Learning, and backed by a financially strong and Mission-inspired, faith-based organization.

Westminster Winter Park celebrates our organization’s 70 years of service to older adults

Posted on April 19, 2024April 19, 2024 by Westminster

Residents, team members and local civic leaders marked the occasion with outdoor evening celebration

WINTER PARK, April 18, 2024 – With an outdoor festival and a special pronouncement of congratulations from Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, Westminster Winter Park celebrated Westminster Communities of Florida’s 70th anniversary of serving older adults with more than 250 attendees and guests.

The organization, first established as a ministry of the Presbyterian Church (USA) as Presbyterian Homes of the Synod of Florida, began its service when the Life Plan Community today known as Westminster Manor opened in 1961. Westminster Winter Park, its second community, was founded in 1965. Today Westminster Communities of Florida has 23 communities spanning the state of Florida, serving more than 7,000 residents with 2,300 team members.

Scott Cairns, Executive Director of Westminster Winter Park, thanked the attendees with a word of welcome. “Thank you to all of those who will be celebrating today for being a special part of our first 70 years,” Cairns said.

“I think every year is special here at Westminster, but this year is our platinum anniversary year! I am so happy to be here and celebrating with you tonight,” said Chief Executive Officer Terry Rogers.

Demings brought a special congratulatory congratulating Westminster Communities of Florida for the occasion. “There’s a great group of people who work here and who live here to make this a wonderful place,” said Demings.

Attendees also enjoyed an invocation by the Rev. Jeff Parkkila, Chaplain at Westminster Winter Park, and the Rev. Maynard Pittendreigh, a retired minister, and a program featuring congratulatory remarks from Betsy Gardner, President of the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce, and Residents’ Council Chairperson Sandy Dooley.

Following the ceremony, residents, future residents and team members enjoyed an evening of outdoor live entertainment and games under the shade of one of the community’s majestic trees. Attendees enjoyed a variety of delicious appetizers provided by the Westminster Winter Park Dining Services team, including a trio of sliders, crab cakes, pretzel bites and special-made desserts.

How Older Adults Can Celebrate Earth Day in 2024

Posted on April 15, 2024April 15, 2024 by Westminster

Earth Day is next week, a global event that promotes environmental protection that began in 1970 is now celebrated in over 193 countries. For older adults, Earth Day holds particular importance as they become more conscious of their environmental impact and have the time and resources to contribute to environmental causes. We’ll explore five simple things that older adults can do to celebrate Earth Day and support the well-being of our planet.

Plant Trees and Pollinator-Friendly Plants

Planting trees in your garden or neighborhood has numerous benefits. They absorb carbon dioxide, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and release oxygen for us to breathe. Trees also filter pollutants and prevent erosion, contributing to cleaner water. Additionally, planting pollinator-friendly plants attracts vital butterflies, bees, and other pollinators, supporting our ecosystem. Lastly, trees and these plants provide shade and habitat for local wildlife, enhancing biodiversity and enriching your local ecosystem.

Reduce, Reuse and Recycle

Reducing consumption means making conscious purchase decisions and buying only what’s necessary, reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions. Reusing items extends their lifespan, reducing the need for new products. Seniors can mend, repurpose, or donate items like clothing and furniture. Using reusable bags, bottles, and cups is also beneficial. Recycling saves resources and reduces landfill waste. Seniors can participate in local programs or set up home recycling systems. Every small act makes a difference in preserving the planet!

Conserve Water

To conserve water and protect aquatic ecosystems, seniors can take these simple actions:

Take shorter showers, aiming for under 5-10 minutes.
Fix leaking faucets promptly to eliminate water wastage and reduce utility bills.
Water lawns deeply but infrequently, allowing water to reach the roots. Watering in the morning or evening minimizes evaporation. Using collected rainwater for gardening further reduces freshwater usage.

Conserve Energy

Older adults can have a significant energy-saving impact by:

Turning off lights when leaving a room to reduce energy waste.
Unplugging appliances when not in use. Unplugging televisions, computers, and kitchen gadgets, can help save a substantial amount of energy over time. Power strips can be used to make unplugging multiple appliances easier and more convenient.
Opt for public transportation or carpooling. Taking buses or trains for errands and social events, as well as carpooling with friends or neighbors, helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save energy.

Supporting Sustainable Businesses

Choosing sustainable businesses helps protect the environment by prioritizing responsible resource use and production processes. These businesses minimize waste, reduce energy consumption, and use renewable resources. Opting for local and organic produce reduces carbon emissions from transportation, supports local farmers, and promotes a healthier ecosystem by minimizing pesticide use.

How are you celebrating Earth Day and making a difference for the environment this year? Discover how residents at Westminster communities across the state are celebrating Earth Day by finding a location near you today!

We celebrated 70 years of serving older adults and the founding of Westminster Communities of Florida with a special ceremony in Bradenton

Posted on April 5, 2024April 8, 2024 by Westminster

Residents, team members and Bradenton civic leaders mark occasion with special ceremony and outdoor carnival celebration

BRADENTON, April 5, 2024 – With an outdoor carnival and a special proclamation from Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown, Westminster Communities of Florida celebrated its 70th anniversary of serving older adults with roots in the founding of Westminster Manor in 1954.

The organization, first established as a ministry of the Presbyterian Church (USA) as Presbyterian Homes of the Synod of Florida, began its service when the Life Plan Community today known as Westminster Manor opened in 1961. Westminster Communities of Florida today has 23 communities spanning the state of Florida, serving more than 7,000 residents with 2,300 team members.

Terry Carr, Executive Director of Westminster Manor and Westminster Point Pleasant, thanked the attendees at the special ceremony with a word of welcome. “Thank you to all of those who will be celebrating today, and thank you all very much today for being a part of our first 70 years,” Carr said.

“This year will be a special year,” said Chief Executive Officer Terry Rogers in celebration of the anniversary. “I think every year is special here at Westminster, and I am so happy that we are starting our celebration here in Bradenton where it all began.”

Brown brought a commemorative copy of a proclamation congratulating Westminster Communities of Florida for the occasion. “We are still a small town here in Bradenton,” Brown said, “and we wouldn’t have… what the Presbyterian Church saw and started in our community without that sense of pride and longevity.”

The City of Bradenton’s proclamation read, in closing, “Now therefore it be resolved, as the Mayor of the City of Bradenton, I do hereby proclaim April 4, 2024, as Westminster Communities of Florida’s 70th anniversary… and encourage all citizens to congratulate them on 70 years of serving older adults in Bradenton.”

One resident, Patti MacKay, had a personal connection that she shared as part of the presentation: Her mother, Jeanne Oliver, attended the ground-breaking for Westminster Manor and later lived there as a resident. “I’ve shared Mom’s story, and our story. But what I want to end with today is YOUR story,” MacKay said. “Today is just another chapter!”

Attendees also enjoyed congratulatory remarks from Jacki Dezelski from the Manatee Chamber of Commerce, who celebrated the organization’s 350 team members in Bradenton; Sharon Barhorst from Bradenton Kiwanis; and Ruth Anne Rood representing the Bradenton Tropical Palms, a neighbor of Westminster Manor.

Following the ceremony at Westminster Manor in the morning, residents, team members, and civic members attended an outdoor carnival in the afternoon at Westminster Point Pleasant. The afternoon featured highlights like a “Jeopardy!”-style game with trivia about Westminster, a photo slideshow highlighting the last 70 years of history, and live outdoor entertainment by The Boomers, a local music act.

Senior Chaplain Dino Silvestrini opened the afternoon’s event with a special invocation, which closed with: “Today, we pray for the next chapter of our story. May our commitment to serve from the heart remain unshakeable. May our innovations continue to break barriers… May our legacy echo through generations, a testament to Your grace and our commitment to inspiring older adults to enjoy happy, healthy and purposeful lives.”

Author: Westminster