To launch off a summer stuffed with lectures, performances, excursions, celebrations, and educational opportunities celebrating America\u2019s 250th birthday, The Heritage of Green Hills in Cumru Township, Berks County, hosted a large, lively outdoor picnic featuring patriotic music by the Belle Tones, exciting games, specialty food and drinks, and residents and team members dressed as iconic American figures, including George Washington, Paul Revere, Ben Franklin, the Statue of Liberty, Uncle Sam, and a majestic eagle.<\/p>\n
The premier senior living community\u2019s popular silver poms cheerleading squad, The Heritage Hotties, also performed an energetic new routine.<\/p>\n
It was an epic afternoon of fun, music, friendship, and patriotic pride.<\/p>\n
Throughout July, The Heritage featured a wide variety of patriotic-themed lectures, performances, outings, and special events designed to bring history to life while encouraging lifelong learning, social connection, and active engagement.<\/p>\n
At the festive 250th Fourth of July celebration buffet, residents were encouraged to wear red, white, and blue as they gathered together to celebrate the nation\u2019s birthday.<\/p>\n
History enthusiasts enjoyed several presentations, including \u201cWashington the Warrior & Ben Franklin\u201d and \u201cSave Our History: The Declaration of Independence & Secrets of the Founding Fathers.\u201d Oxford-educated historian and performer Dr. Jack Covington returned with his acclaimed portrayal of Patrick Henry in \u201cThunder of the Revolution.\u201d<\/p>\n
Residents could enjoy a showing of the classic (and thematically appropriate) film \u201c1776\u201d on campus or attend a live performance of one of America\u2019s greatest musicals, \u201cWest Side Story,\u201d at the Fulton Theater.<\/p>\n
Off campus, residents traveled to several historic destinations. At Ephrata Cloister, they explored William Penn\u2019s legacy, and at Landis Valley Village, they learned about early American farmers\u2019 revolts<\/p>\n
Music lovers attended a Carillon Concert at Valley Forge Washington Memorial and danced along as the Swing Time Dolls performed the American Hit Parade of the 1940s and classics of the Vietnam era at the nostalgic trio\u2019s America 250 concert.<\/p>\n
Residents also experienced the excitement surrounding the 250th anniversary tour of Union Pacific\u2019s Big Boy No. 4014, one of the world\u2019s largest operating steam locomotives, during a whistle-stop event paired with a visit to the historic Quentin Tavern.<\/p>\n
For a classic American summer experience, residents cheered on the Reading Fightin Phils against the Binghamton Rumble Ponies in a minor league baseball game and enjoyed postgame fireworks.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese events are about much more than history,\u201d said Well By Design Director Cheryl Anderson. \u201cThey\u2019re opportunities to learn, connect, explore, and create new memories together while celebrating an important milestone in our nation\u2019s story.\u201d<\/p>\n
All activities are part of The Heritage\u2019s Well By Design philosophy, which supports intellectual, social, physical, emotional, spiritual, environmental, vocational, and health-focused wellness.<\/p>\n