6th Annual "Room at the Inn" Event
The 6th annual “Room at the Inn” was held in St. Matthew’s chapel on December 1 and 2, with over 500 people attending during the weekend event. Oak Park resident Susan Greeley displayed her amazing collection of over 300 nativity scenes, and the free exhibit was open to the public. Many visitors have returned each year for this non-commercial Advent event. They comment on the wonderful variety of scenes and the sense of peace they enjoy while here.

For the first time this year, the exhibit was opened a day early for school field trips. 220 students ranging from pre-school through 5th grade, came through the chapel. Susan Greeley prepared scavenger hunt lists to help them find some of the details in the scenes. After seeing the exhibit, students from Christian Heritage Academy gave a lively performance of Christmas songs for residents.

Birthday
On December 7, Geneva Parrish celebrated her 105th birthday! Her family and friends helped her celebrate with a big cake, flowers and decorations. Geneva's advice on how to live a long time: "Just keep working on it!"

.

Navy Pier Outing
In September, on a beautiful warm day, the St. Matthew bus took residents, staff and volunteers for an outing to Navy Pier. After seeing the stained glass museum and conservatory, they headed to the food court for lunch.

The aviary by the business office at St. Matthew Center for Health has four new baby birds. They lined up and posed nicely for photos.

Annual St. Valentine's Day Dance
A favorite event at St. Matthew is the annual Valentine’s Dance, this year held on February 12. Dan Sabados provided the musical entertainment, playing a variety of love songs and dance music. Residents, family, and staff joined the fun, which was highlighted by the traditional Limbo parade and the crowning of the King and Queen of the dance.

Food service director Leslie Rieser and Diane at the Valentine’s Dance.	After being crowned King and Queen of the evening, Andrew and Stella danced for their subjects.