Senior Q 2008
By: Mike Tucker
For the fourth year in a row, Hawgeyes BBQ teamed up with Smokey D's BBQ, and Sunnyview Care Center, in recognition of Senior Q Month. The goal was to provide a special group of seniors' some of the best BBQ the nation has to offer, and to entice family members to join in the Celebration. Also attending were members from the Iowa BBQ Society, a volunteer and her therapy dog from the Animal Rescue League, a full Sunnyview Staff, and the Mayor of Ankeny, Steve Van Oort.
This year's event was held on October 11. The weather was outstanding, with highs in the upper 70s. The volunteers met at 7am, and the smokers were cooking by 8am. The facility has a great outdoor activity area, where tables and chairs were set up in a picnic like atmosphere. Family members began arriving around 10am, and the residents began eating around 11am. Several Hundred people flowed through the serving line. The buffet included smoked brisket, pulled pork, smoked chicken, smoked baked beans, coleslaw, lemonade, and lemonade. Hot dogs were available for the kids, and the Sunnyview staff of cooks came up with a beautiful dessert spread. People continued to flow through the serving line until 2pm. At 2, after the food was gone, Jimmy the therapy dog arrived. Jimmy offered the residents another "taste of home". Jimmy made his rounds about the facility, like the seasoned pro that he is. He received pats and treats along the way. A guitar player was also performing during the day, which blended perfectly with the gathering.
Having done this for four years now, I've gained a much better understanding and appreciation for both the residents, and the care providers at senior care facilities. Granted, there are some less than desirable housing conditions out there, but Sunnyview is a night and day difference between the facility that inspired me to start this program. Maybe next year we'll visit that facility again, except this time we'll let them know we're coming. Seems they were caught off guard last time.
Thanks to all of the Sunnyview Staff and its director (Greg Friedrich), the Mayor of Ankeny (Steve Van Oort). Also thanks go to the following list of Iowa BBQ Society Members; Bret Wram, Mick Beauchamp, Steve Burch, Fred Horstman, Becky Wram, Rod Anderson, David Anderson, Kenna Jo Lambertson, Darren Warth, and Josie Wram, and Mike Tucker.
Thanks to Mayor Van Oort, the City of Ankeny now has a proclamation that states October is officially "Senior Q Month".
Thanks also go to Lotta Bull, Russ and Franks, and Cookies BBQ, for their donation of sauces and dry rubs.
