Newhaven Court at Clearview turns everyday dining into festive celebrations
BUTLER, Pa. – What do Dolly Parton, Mardi Gras, the Pittsburgh Steelers, Las Vegas and the Grinch have in common?
At first glance, not much. But at Newhaven Court at Clearview, these icons fuel themed dining experiences that bring joy, creativity — and a few surprises — to the table. The senior living community’s dining experience team turns ordinary meals into celebrations, one themed day at a time.
“These days are special because they are a fun way to celebrate something seemingly ‘small,’” said Krystle Pry, Executive Operations Officer at Newhaven Court at Clearview. “They turn an average day into a day of fun and good food.”
Recently, Newhaven Court at Clearview celebrated Dolly Day — a nod to the country music superstar and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Dolly Parton. The main entrée of chicken and dumplings was followed by Dolly’s favorite dessert, banana pudding.
A big fan of Dolly Parton, Newhaven Court at Clearview resident John Salopek appreciated Dolly Day as part of the senior living community’s themed dining days.
On April 12, also known as Area Code 412 Day in Western Pennsylvania, residents donned Steelers black and gold, waved Terrible Towels and dined on classic Pittsburgh fare. National Submarine Day coincided with an under-the-sea theme – tuna fish on a croissant, goldfish crackers and soup.
Activities such as golf or camping inspired themed dining days. So did National Cow Appreciation Day. Pizza is celebrated at Newhaven Court at Clearview, too. The Super Bowl, Las Vegas casinos, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and The Grinch all had their (dining) days.
Newhaven Court at Clearview resident Soni Laughead shares a moment with The Grinch during a holiday-themed dining day.
“I think our residents and team really enjoy the themed meals because they bring a fun break from the everyday routine,” said Heather Allison, LifeStages Director at Newhaven Court at Clearview. “We all dress up to match the theme, and the residents get a real kick out of it.”
“Many residents even join in and dress the part themselves,” Allison said. “We love transforming all three of our dining rooms to match the occasion. It’s exciting for everyone, and trying something new on the menu adds to the adventure.”
Family members are invited too, and many eagerly join in. “We love when families come in dressed up and enjoy the day with us,” Allison said. “It strengthens the bond between the community and our residents’ loved ones.”
For the residents and team alike, themed dining days are a chance to step out of the ordinary and into something joyful — proof that even a regular day can be extraordinary with a little creativity and a lot of heart.
For more information, contact Heather Allison, LifeStages Director, Newhaven Court at Clearview, at hallison@integracare.com or call 724.477.8701.