(LEWES, Del.) - One hundred Monarch butterflies took flight in Lewes.
It happened Friday afternoon at Cadbury Senior Lifestyles. Many watched in awe as the colorful butterflies filled the sky, landing on plants, trees and even themselves.
"It's a thrilling sight to see them fly all at once, heading towards other official stations along their annual migration to Mexico," said Jean Carpenter, event coordinator at Cadbury Senior Lifestyles. "The release is a colorful and exciting part of all of the vibrancy and activities-rich environment here at Cadbury, and always a delight to the residents, guests and friends."
Executive Director Carol Holzman says the community hosts a butterfly release every year, but Friday's event was particularly special.
"Today is special because we are a way station for Monarch butterflies. We started this four years ago, and it's particularly special because we are celebrating our 10 year anniversary," said Holzman. "We've started out as mud, and now we have beautiful grounds and we're celebrating that."
Cadbury is home to two gardens filled with plants that attract the endangered species. Holzman says Cadbury uses Monarchs to help promote their growth.
"When people come into our community, they feel a sense of home. They feel the warmth from the residents and staff," said Holzman. "We have a policy where we ask that everyone smile and say 'hello,' and it really shows when guests and family members are walking through the community."
Not only does Cadbury provide for its 222 residents, but Holzman says Cadbury also provides for the greater community.
"We serve over 100 other organizations in Delaware in terms of donating money and donating time. We employ 210 employees here, so we contribute to the community's well-being. It's really rewarding working here," said Holzman.
Joan Gaffney, who has been living at Cadbury for nearly three years, says she has fond memories of the butterfly release last year.
"It's a marvelous occasion. Last year was my first year. The garden had just been planted and people were wondering whether the butterflies would like it or not, but they flew right over there and started eating," laughed Gaffney.
In addition to the annual release, Gaffney says there are several things she appreciates about Cadbury.
"The most important thing is that they train the staff here to not treat all the people like grown children, but to continue to treat them as adults," said Gaffney. "Secondly, it is a very well-run, friendly place. It is very beautiful with its lawns and gardens, and I have a porch with flowers for my cats."
But her favorite amenity? The bistro.
"It's very handy to get what you want. The dining room is excellent, and the food is very good. I especially like the Sunday brunches," smiled Gaffney. "I use that as a form of entertainment for close friends to invite them to the brunch."
Cadbury Senior Lifestyles in Lewes is a non-profit full service Continuing Care Retirement Community. The 40-acre site and campus setting is designed for active and vibrant seniors age 62 and greater, and also provides advanced levels of care as residents' lifestyles and health needs change. The community offers independent living cottages and apartments; assisted living at its The Tides; memory support at Safe Harbor; and skilled nursing and rehabilitation services at The Cove. It is the only CCRC located near Delaware beaches. For more information, visit www.cadbury.org/lewes.
