At Thursday’s ceremony, Farrow explained how Morning Pointe came to the Calhoun community.

 

“Back in 1999, in the early infancy of this company, we acquired this building that had been built by some local folks who had come together after deciding to serve local senior citizens by creating Regal Residence,” said Farrow. “They did a great job getting this property up and running, and then we came along in 1999 with an acquisition and formally launched it as Morning Pointe Senior Living. This is one of the early buildings that we had in our portfolio and the Lord continually blessed us as we continued to grow. We based ourselves in Chattanooga, and we’ve grown into one of the area’s largest providers. We’re blessed with our growth and we’re blessed to be here serving our seniors in the Southeast.”

 

Tracy Clements, executive director of Morning Pointe of Calhoun, said it’s one of her greatest pleasures to get to go to work at Morning Pointe each day.

 

“It’s a joy to be with these residents; to hear their stories, to hear their advice, because they have lots of advice to give. With age comes knowledge,” said Clements. “I love to take in everything they tell me, and use it.”

 

Clements also introduced her staff, saying they are very dedicated to Morning Pointe. Staff members introduced included: Director of Nursing, Beverly Shaw; Community Relations Director, Virginia Smith; Food Services Director, Nina Keiser; Activities Director, Keisha Cox; Business Office Manager, Rebecca Williams; Maintenance Director, Bruce Harkins; Lantern Program Coordinator, Rose.

 

Calhoun Mayor Jimmy Palmer read a little of a proclamation from five years prior, at Morning Pointe of Calhoun’s 20th anniversary celebration, saying the company has the mission of serving seniors through a positive corporate culture and reflects Christian values.

 

“(The founders) shared one vision, to change the senior care industry,” said Palmer. “Morning Pointe of Calhoun is committed to providing services that enhance the wellness, lifestyle and enjoyment of senior living in a secure environment that promotes hospitality, dignity, independence and quality of life. Morning Pointe Senior Living has become what it is today because of the trust that families placed in them, their compassionate associates and the countless number of volunteers that help them exceed expectations and by providing exceptional senior living and Alzheimer’s care. I thank them for their commitment to our community and I appreciate what they have done; many of us have family or friends at this facility and we know the value they bring to our community. I congratulate them on 25 years.”

 

Eddie Brannon, owner of Max Brannon Funeral Home, spoke of his experience with Morning Pointe of Calhoun after his father, Max, the founder of the funeral home, was placed in care at the senior living facility.

 

“I am a self-appointed ambassador for Morning Pointe Senior Living and the Lantern, and I’ve been an ambassador for them for quite a few years,” said Brannon. “I saw the work they did here and became a part of it; my wife called BINGO and I always came with her. My dad was here for three-and-a-half years. I tried to keep dad at home, and with me working 24/7…I couldn’t give him the care he so desperately deserved and so desperately needed. So I knew, without a shadow of a doubt, where my first call was going to be, and it was here at Morning Pointe. Dad loved it here and I loved coming up here. Dad was so peaceful (here). I’m glad to be a part of the Morning Pointe family. I appreciate everything they are doing here; the remodel is beautiful. Remember, if you have a loved one that needs the kind of care that’s being give here, Morning Pointe is the place to go.”

 

Retired Calhoun City Schools administrator Kay Baxter, who is now a resident of Morning Pointe, spoke of the wonderful atmosphere that makes Morning Pointe home to her and her fellow residents.

 

“My husband was here at The Lantern for two years and he was treated with great skill, and kindness and understanding by everyone who was there,” said Baxter. “The motto at Morning Pointe is, ‘This is your home,’ and (the staff) asks ‘how can we assist you?’ I cannot think, at our age, for a better home. Thank you, Morning Pointe, for hiring the wonderful people (who work here).”

 

In addition to speakers and a ribbon cutting, the Calhoun High School Trio and Quartet performed several selections of music, and the Gordon Central High School JROTC presented a Flag Ceremony, while Morning Pointe of Calhoun resident Raymond Goza, veteran of the U.S. Army and Air Force Reserves, led the Pledge of Allegiance. Small, guided group tours were offered, along with chef-prepared specialty desserts for those in attendance.

 

For more information on Morning Pointe, visit morningpointe.com or find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MorningPointeofCalhoun. You can also call them at 706-629-0777.