Crane’s Mill Celebrates the “Longest Day” to Support Alzheimer’s Awareness

Crane’s Mill Retirement Community in West Caldwell was one of thousands of senior facilities throughout the nation that participated in the “Longest Day,” an event sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association.   Held every year on the Summer Solstice, the Longest Day focuses on raising awareness to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and to those caring for them, where every day is the “longest day.” The event also raises money to  fund research for a cure.   This year, the event was held on June 21, and residents and staff at Crane’s Mill purchased floating lanterns, which were dedicated in memory or in honor of a loved one.  The lanterns were blessed during a ceremony in Hinman Hall, which included poetry readings, music, and refreshments.  At sunset, the lanterns were lit, and set afloat in the pond behind Crane’s Mill.  All the lanterns were collected the following morning. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pictured above are Ralph Perri, engineering director; Dick Carter, a resident who photographed the event; Nicole Smith, director of community programming,; and Barbara Davey, director of community relations. The event raised $1,242.