Generations Come Out For Fun, Food and Conversation

Prairie Ridge Village hosted their annual Family Appreciation Day on Sept. 14, where people of all ages came out and enjoyed delicious food, played campfire-inspired games, and caught up with people they might not have had the opportunity to touch base with during the summer.

This event is put together by the staff at Prairie Ridge as a way to thank the hard-working individuals at area businesses who have become family over the years and help out the residents and staff of the assisted living facility. It also provides a chance for residents to get out, see people they might not have the opportunity to see on a regular basis, as well as get the community familiar with Prairie Ridge. "People might not know about Prairie Ridge until there comes a point in their life where assisted living options need to be researched. Putting on this event allows everyone in the community to be familiar with what we do and who we are," said Amber Swindler, director of Prairie Ridge.

Music provided by The Classics and booths from local businesses such as the Glasgow City-County Library, Albertsons, 5th Ave. Pharmacy and Valley View Home, provided much entertainment for those of all ages. Children had the opportunity take a "train ride," courtesy of a side-by-side provided by Scott's Track and Wheel and cars provided by Zerbe Brothers. "I want to go on it again and again," said three-year-old MacKenzie Bigelbach, who just couldn't get enough.

There was much enthusiasm around the photo booth sponsored by FMDH, which allowed attendees the opportunity to dress up, unwind and have a memento from the event. "I absolutely love this!," said an attendee as she was trying props on for a group picture. There was also a kids' table, allowing kids of all ages to color a camp-out inspired picture or create a guitar masterpiece. Even businesses who couldn't directly participate this year donated prizes that were handed out during the evening. "Every year we try and have something different, inviting different businesses to participate. Businesses have always circled back around if they can't participate one year, for sure they will be back the following year. Businesses are also very generous with donations if they are not able to directly participate in the event," said Swindler.

An estimated 300 people made the event a part of their Friday evening, enjoying good conversation, a complimentary dinner and treats provided by businesses that participated. "This event is all about getting the community together. It's a great opportunity for residents to get out and see faces, people, they might not have the chance to see," said Swindler. "It just went fantastic."

Swindler is very grateful for her staff and the businesses for making the appreciation night happen and such a great success. "I can't give enough praise for my staff and the businesses who participate. Everyone has hands in making the event happen." Stay tuned for next year's event as the staff will start gathering ideas and putting plans into motion soon.