Duane Via, Activities Director

Blue Ridge residents have been having a great time with all the days to celebrate in February.

Each year, the staff members and visitors vote for Valentine’s Day “King and Queen” from each floor. This year’s winners were Franklin Rose and Annie Alley on first floor; second floor winners were Bob Peacock and Agatha Tolbert. West wing winners were Curtis Young and Willie Smith.

Each queen was given a tiara, a box of chocolate, a dozen red roses and a certificate. Each of our kings received a crown, a certificate and a box of chocolate. We are so proud of our winners. During the Valentine’s Day party, many family members came to see their loved one crowned and be part of the celebration. The residents were excited to go to a new restaurant this past week.  As we are on some of our bus trips, we see other places we would like to try out. On trips in Mount Airy, N.C., we noticed an Asian. That’s when some of our residents said they wanted to go and give it a try. They enjoy trying new things and different kinds of food.

On our way back from a bus trip to a new restaurant, the “food critics” go to work. We asked if what they ordered was good, what were their thoughts about the service; was the place clean and if they wanted to come back to this restaurant. We have a good time getting their input on their bus trips and the places they like to go.

Next week the residents will be celebrating “Mardi Gras.” This is always one of their favorite days to celebrate. We will be having beads, masks, feathers and some New Orleans foods. We will also be finding out fun facts about the Mardi Gras Parade, New Orleans and the people that live there. We are currently working on our calendar for March. If you or your group would like to volunteer your time, please call me,  Dee Dee Via, at (276) 694-7161, extension 1804. We would love to put you on our calendar.