A special event in support of our troops overseas brought smiles, tears, and a swinging good time at Juniper Village at Cape Coral.
It was our 4th Annual Boogie Woogie Happy Hour.Donation boxes were placed in the lobby as residents, families and friends arrived for a special afternoon. Cartons of food, toiletries, and personal items filled our lobby, and it is estimated that donations in the amount of $500.00 were collected and sent out to our very special friends - the military men and women serving our country overseas.
Our guests were adorned with yellow ribbons as they entered which were prepared by children of our staff. As always, our wonderful dietary staff prepared snacks and party food, and some friends that work in the community provided non-alcoholic beers and wines - and the party was a hit.
The music that was provided by our favorite entertainers, Bob and Joan, brought back wonderful memories of the 40's, 50's, 60's and 70's. "God Bless America" brought a standing ovation after the room came to attention and belted out the song with all its might.
Jonathan, age 5, shown below in his red shirt, was so touched when his mother who is a member of our dietary staff told him about the special event and how we need to reach out to our service men and women. He designed beautiful cards for the soldiers, and personally signed each one. Jonathan receives a modest monetary reward for good behavior each week and asked his mother if he could use that reward to purchase supplies so he could make something for the troops.
Our Activities Staff and Dietary Services Staff were decked out in their 40's finest, while our Wellness Staff showed their support in their camouflage outfits.
The finale of the event was a tribute to a local Cape Coral Serviceman, Michael Arauzo, who was recently wounded while serving our country. His father, Tyler, gave a short speech to our audience which was truly a highlight of the day. Juniper Village looks forward to intertwining this wonderful family with our Juniper family.
