On Tuesday, Aug. 19, St. Andrews Village residents, staff, and invited guests came together to celebrate the retirement community’s 25th anniversary.

On a picture-perfect Maine day, attendees enjoyed a gourmet Polynesian lunch on the back patio and lawn areas of the Inn. Guests’ attire complimented the luau-themed colorful affair. Jazz quartet Mickey Felder and Friends provided music.

Lincoln Hospital president, Cindy Wade, Administrator/Executive Director Cheryl Wusterbarth, and Marketing & Sales Manager Bob Drury, each provided a welcome introduction.

“I applaud the forward thinking and planning that happened by the Board and CEO, Peggy Pinkham, more than 25 years ago. The strategy to provide a full continuum of care for seniors in our community was brilliant and as you can see today St. Andrews Village is thriving and providing much needed access to care and living for many people,” said Wade.

Wusterbarth spoke about how so many staff members have made valued contributions to the success of Village operations over the years. She recognized many of the staff who have 20 plus years with the organization, some of whom were in attendance.

There was an opportunity for story-sharing and comments. Liz Hall, an integral part of the community’s inception, shared some of her personal thoughts stating "St. Andrews Village was founded by a group of visionary individuals who believed deeply that members of our community should have the opportunity to remain in the place they love. Inspired by that mission, a group of dedicated volunteers brought the idea to the Hospital Board.”

Hall continued with “Leaders like Peggy Pinkham, Ron Vachon, and Village Board Chair Harry Pelton devoted hundreds of hours to the effort, alongside Hospital Board members such as Nan Davison and Bruce Tindal, as well as YMCA Director Mike Harrison and the Emery Family. Together, they worked tirelessly to turn this dream into a reality. I’m proud to have been part of that remarkable team, contributing to the building's design, marketing materials and strategy, and organizing events that helped build our waiting list—proving that the Hospital’s leap of faith was a risk worth taking. Today, that dream lives on as St. Andrews Village.”

Additionally, Hall read a note from Peggy Pinkham who was unable to attend the luncheon. "St. Andrews Village was the first comprehensive retirement community in Maine. Although the buildings and surrounding grounds are beautiful, it was the heart and dedication and joy of many people...that made the Village come alive!"

Several residents in attendance openly shared their personal thoughts, stories, or comments.

“I love it [here] and am incredibly grateful to everyone for being so accepting of my dog Tahoe and of me. All the staff and residents have been welcoming...I couldn’t be more fortunate. A special thank you to those who had a vision of this and turned it into a reality,” said resident Betsy Nelson.

After her husband passed away in 2021, resident Joyce Marshall was left alone and insecure. “…I moved to the Village at 89 years old, where I became a part of this [family]…Here I feel welcomed, protected, and secure…I am most content,” said Marshall.

Judie Allen and Margo Atwood shared memories of three couples (Virdens, Atwoods, and Allens) making trips to visit existing retirement facilities, to get a feel for the community and services offered. They both recall how much they got out of those trips and how they reported their observations and experiences back to the Hospital Board.

Also joining the afternoon’s silver jubilee were past members of the then known "St. Andrews Hospital and Healthcare Center Board of Trustees," including: Cynthia Edwards, Nan Davison, Bruce Tindal, Kathy Bugbee and Peter Gardner.

Residents, staff, and guests brought a lot of energy and joy to the party. The nostalgic aura was felt by all.

The afternoon concluded with attendees browsing displays of old photos, newsletters, news articles, and memorabilia including the ground-breaking shovel!

To our residents, families, staff, and community friends: Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Cheers to 25 amazing years—and to many more filled with joy, laughter, and meaningful living.