Dearborn, Michigan – Oakwood Common recently celebrated the completion of a major renovation–unveiling the retirement community’s trendy new bistro, an inviting lounge with cherry wood wine cabinets for residents’ social hours, a newly decorated entry way, parlor and salon along with an expanded fitness area, billiard room and new outdoor patio.
Hand carved “Connolly’s” sign
Brian Connolly, president and CEO of Oakwood Healthcare, Inc., attended the special renovation celebration to include dedication and naming of the new lounge as “Connolly’s,” in memory of his mother Margaret, a ten year resident of Oakwood Common. A gift from the Connolly family was used to help fund the beautifully decorated lounge that includes a mosaic art tiled fireplace.
Oakwood Common residents Lillie Washington, at left, and Irene Brown raise their glasses to toast the new renovations in Connolly’s lounge.
During the dedication, Connolly affectionately recalled how his mother became friends with Oakwood Common resident Betty Fitzgerald, who was the mother of Gerald Fitzgerald, former president and CEO of Oakwood. Fitzgerald and his wife Jan joined the Connollys at the special reception and dedication.
Oakwood Healthcare President and CEO Brian Connolly, center, accepts a special tribute from State Representative George Darany. Joining Connolly are from left, Elizabeth Goch, division president of post acute care at Oakwood, Brian Connolly’s wife Darcy, and Kathy Cronin of the Oakwood Foundation.
Other guests included State Representative George Darany who presented a plaque and special tribute from the State of Michigan to Oakwood Common.
Elizabeth Goch, division president of post acute care for Oakwood Healthcare, and the staff of Oakwood Common welcomed guests to tour the renovations and sample specialty hors d’oeuvres and delicacies prepared by chefs from Morrison Senior Living, which is responsible for residents’ dining program and the recipient of a Culinary Excellence award.
“The response to the renovations from residents, family members and visitors has been extremely positive,” said Goch. “Our staff has received several responses of simply ‘Wow.’ This is especially true of first time visitors or people who had not stopped in since the renovations began.”
The renovations were begun earlier this year in response to the requests and interests of active seniors who enjoy the intimacy and unique amenities available at Oakwood Common including an underground parking garage, private balconies and gardens, and close proximity to shopping, transportation, healthcare facilities and cultural attractions.
About Oakwood Common
Oakwood Common offers one and two bedroom apartments located at 16351 Rotunda Drive, within a beautiful 29-acre retirement community that includes exquisite landscaping, nature trails and scenic views along the historic Rouge River Gateway in Dearborn. Oakwood Common apartments, available with flexible payment options, offer exceptional amenities for independent living and can be readily customized. Assisted living and a comprehensive rehabilitation and skilled nursing center are also available for those with additional needs. For more information and to arrange tours, call 800-642-4663 or visit www.oakwoodcommon.org.