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Poland SOV remembers Idora Park
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Arvella Harris (left) and Bob Clark beamed with joy as they rode sat in a replica of the Idora Park roller coaster, The Wildcat, during Poland Shepherd of the Valley 40th anniversary.
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Adreona Goudy (left), Markeysha Dozier(center) and Ashley Dozier enjoyed the food and festivities during Poland Shepherd of the Valley’s 40th anniversary celebration July 15.
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Mya Scott (left) and Peyton Kliem showed off the fish they won during Poland Shepherd of the Valley’s 40th anniversary celebration July 15.
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Matt Cowles( left) and Jeni Keating sold tickets and greeted visitors during Poland Shepherd of the Valley’s 40th anniversary celebration July 15.
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Neighbors| Eartha Terrell.Poland Shepherd of the Valley employee, Lucy Burtner, smiled with therapy dog, Sheba, during the facility’s 40th anniversary celebration July 15.
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Christine Porter (left) and Patricia Ahlswede were excited to be reacquainted with Idora Park during Poland Shepherd of the Valley’s 40th anniversary celebration July 15.
By EARTHA TERRELL
Poland Shepherd of the Valley residents, employees and community members took a trip down memory lane and revisited their experiences of Idora Park during the facility’s 40th anniversary celebration July 15.
In honor of SOV’s 40th anniversary, Poland Shepherd of the Valley hosted a party with an Idora Park theme full of costumes, memorabilia and even original music from the amusement park.
“It’s been wonderful. Both the residents and their families have a lot of history and meaning. They’ve been telling us their stories of Idora,” said Associate Director Kelly Stansloski.
The hallways of the facility were transformed into an amusement park full of excitement for people of all ages. There were games of chance, popcorn, hot dogs, a saloon and enough fun for everyone. Residents relived the fun times of riding the roller coaster, The Wildcat, as they sat in a replica with loved ones for photos. Children devoured cotton candy and learned about the history of Idora Park.
“It’s exciting and joyous to be around. It’s wonderful to be reacquainted with Idora Park. You can feel the joy. This is indicative of a family-oriented business,” said resident Christine Porter.
The event was also a way to thank the surrounding community for its support over the years.
“We’re part of a community and other than a celebration of our anniversary it’s also a way to thank the community,” said Executive Director Donald Kacmar.