The Terrace at Priceville residents elect Homecoming Queens
By Lauren Thornton Tobin|Hartselle Enquirer
While Priceville senior students were celebrating Homecoming last week, three different seniors were also showing off their crowns.
The Terrace at Priceville residents elected Homecoming Queens from each section of the assisted living facility — Independent Living, Assisted Living and Rediscovery.
The winners, Masinah Hawkins, Connie Shreve and Jean Silver got to dress up, put on their makeup and fix their hair just right in anticipation of wearing a tiara.
This was the second year for residents to elect queens, Independent Living activities coordinator Cathy Freeman said.
“It builds self esteem and gives (residents) something to look forward to,” she said. “It puts excitement in their lives.”
Freeman said it started after Priceville members called the Terrace and asked if they wanted to be more involved in homecoming festivities.
Bridge to Recovery director Crystal Shedd said this was her first year participating and she enjoys seeing the residents more involved in the community.
The ballots change every year and, just like in high school, residents and staff get to vote for their favorite candidates.
“I think it kind of takes them back to when they were in school,” Shedd said. “It shows them you’re never too old to be Homecoming Queen.”
Each lady beamed as they saw their families and had no qualms with so many people wanting their pictures.
Hawkins, the Independent Living queen, said she was thrilled that her family got to come see her but she was more excited to be in the same parade as her great grandson who plays the trombone in the Priceville Marching Band.
Shreve, the Assisted Living queen, said this is her first year at the Terrace and “it’s pretty good.”
Silver, the Rediscovery queen, said this was her first year to be crowned queen.
She said living at the Terrace was “so far so good. They just tell me what to do and I do it.”
Assisted Living Activity Director Megan Taylor said she thinks all residents, not just the winners, get excited about Homecoming.
“They enjoy being pretty for the day and being recognized,” she said.