Today marks the second annual Grandparents Day Fundraiser at the Eckville Manor House. From 11:30am to 3:30pm residents and guests were treated to a barbeque, musical entertainment by artist Randy Judson, a vintage vehicle show in the parking lot and photo booth pictures with clothing items and accessories such as a massive black hat with a veil, and a blue feather boa.
The fundraiser brings in financial support for resident programs including Christmas events, spring and fall teas, picnics, church services and musical guests. Kelly Judson, Recreation Coordinator for the Manor, was busy at the entrance, greeting residents and visitors while signing people up for door prizes including a bird feeder with seeds and an owl-shaped planter.
Locals from around Eckville lined the parking lot with vintage vehicles to show off their handiwork. Ray Byzitter posed with his cream Dodge 65 Polara. Dianne Andersen enjoyed a Coke while sitting on the back of a green Dodge Polara and visiting with Dick Edwards.
The barbeque was a summer picnic with all the trimmings including baked beans, potato salad and pans of burgers cooked by volunteers Bob Leschert, Ruth Huhn, Dwayne Hammell and Robbie Osbourne of Cenovus Energy.
Wanda Frillman has worked at the Manor for 11 years and took a moment to visit while grabbing a glass of water for a resident she nicknamed “The Terrorizer.” When she first started at the Manor, she drove residents around town and became privy to a plethora of stories from immigrants who helped build the community. Frillman expressed her feeling of awe at the strength homesteaders brought with them from Finland and Ireland, just to name a couple of the diverse places people came from to start farming in Clearwater County.
The Manor provides housing and 24/7 care and support for those unable to manage their own home but do not qualify for long-term care placement. The Manor provides services such as: meals and housekeeping, linen and laundry service, recreation programs and 24-hour safety and emergency response services. Healthcare services are provided by Home Care on a scheduled basis.
