Presbyterian Village North (PVN) marked a remarkable milestone over the weekend of May 30–June 1, celebrating 45 years of enriching lives with a fun-filled lineup of activities for residents, teammates, family members and friends. The anniversary weekend was a tribute to the spirit of community that has made PVN a cherished home to generations.
A Grand Kickoff
The celebration began on Friday evening with a lively cocktail reception, complete with hors d’oeuvres served in the McGowan Auditorium, Great Room and Alcove. Guests were entertained by harpist, Laura Logan Brandenberg, during the cocktail reception and as the party continued, the excitement was evident. Residents mingled, reminisced and enjoyed remarks from several people key to PVN’s history who discussed the “rearview mirror and the windshield”. One particularly poignant presentation on how far PVN has come from one of the creators himself, Doug Hawthorne.
Attendees raised a toast to 45 years “and thriving” before transitioning into an elegant gala dinner—an affair that reflected the warmth, class and care that define PVN. Guests enjoyed:
Butler-Passed Appetizers
- Mini Beef Wellington
- Stuffed Zucchini Blossoms
First Course
- Crab Louis Salad over Butter Lettuce
Duet Entrée
- Veal and Idaho Trout
- Smashed Fingerling Potatoes
- Spring Vegetables
Dessert
- Flaming Cherries Jubilee Cake (which was a big hit at each table)
A highlight of the evening was the specialty cocktail crafted just for the occasion: the 45th Tini—a refreshing mix of vodka, elderflower liqueur, dry vermouth, sparkling wine and fresh lemon juice.
A Weekend to Remember
Saturday was filled with festive, family-friendly fun and some unique gifts including a 45th commemorative booklet and a cross body water bottle holder/keys/mobile phone holder:
- A Kickoff Walk around Gazebo Circle energized the morning.
- Residents tested their wits in a Poker Scavenger Hunt and relaxed with a Sound Bath in the Chapel.
- The lawn outside the cafe hosted a friendly croquet match, while the ever-popular Hamburger Man Food Truck offered classic fare for lunch.
- The afternoon brought a variety of performances and programs in the auditorium, including:
- PUPS and Line Dancers
- Trivia hosted by Corbet Bryant
- Historically Speaking with resident historian Betty Muse
- Singing of “God Bless PVN“
- A film session on Movies as Visual Storytelling with Larry Gleeson
- A playful new “Splash” Game
- Creative opportunities also abounded at the Art Center, which welcomed residents to explore hands-on projects including a quilt created by many residents especially to mark this momentous anniversary.
ASSISTED LIVING JOINED THE FESTIVITIES
PVN Assisted Living (AL) residents enjoyed the festivities as well. They enjoyed their own festive reception in which each resident received an embroidered 45th anniversary blanket. Following the celebration, they exited the building to participate in a butterfly release in honor of thriving for 45 years.
Sunday: A Heartfelt Finale
The weekend concluded on a high note with a Strolling Violinist serenading brunch guests on Sunday morning. A worship service which included former chaplains Carolyn Mitchell and Brent Ashby and performance by the Village Singers (enhanced by some brass musicians) in the auditorium followed, offering a beautiful moment of reflection and harmony. The celebration officially closed with a reception in the Alcove, bringing the community together one last time to honor this significant chapter. Be sure to stop by the east wall in the Great Room to see the PVN timeline as it was lovingly created by resident, Celine Hubler, and will be on display for a limited time.
Celebrating the Past, Embracing the Future
For 45 years, Presbyterian Village North has represented compassionate care, connection and vibrant living. This anniversary celebration was a testament to the lasting bonds formed here, the memories made and the promising future still to come.
Here’s to 45 years—and thriving!
