8th Annual Just Peachy Festival
United Methodist Communities at Pitman 8th Annual Just Peachy Festival was one sweet time for residents and community
Despite the warmer than usual August weather and the ever present threat of rain – UMC at Pitman was able to host its 8th Just Peachy Festival in the courtyard much to the delight of the 100 residents, guests and volunteers who took part in what has become the tastiest community relations event of the year.
A joint Community Life and Sales event, the Festival was a salute to one of South Jersey’s favorite summertime fruits – the peach. Summit City Orchards, Mood’s, Duffield’s and Rowand’s provided Jersey fresh peaches for the event. Not to be outdone Heritage Vineyards donated peach pies and breads while the Mantua Chick-Fil-A donated certificates for free cookies and ice cream cones.
Among the highlights of the evening included music from the duo, Nothin’ But Gina and a Little Bit of Steve, who had the residents up on their feet dancing to country classics from Willie Nelson, Barbara Mandrel and Brooks and Dunn among others. Residents, invited guests and associates also had an opportunity to sample nearly 20 home-made peach desserts, along with peach yogurt and peach tea as well as some freshly picked peaches to take home.
“We like to hold evening activities for residents and community members and this one was a lot of fun. I brainstormed with my colleagues to come up with an event that was sure to appeal to everyone’s tastes and I think is safe to say we all had a sweet time,” said Pam Mezis, Director of Sales.
Who adds, “I am always so impressed by the creativity and enthusiasm of my co-workers and volunteer bakers. When we asked for peach desserts I thought we would get a lot of the same items but we didn’t get two of the same. Our residents and staff loved tasting all the cobblers, cakes, tarts, crisps, salsa and peach-inspired treats that were donated.”
New this year: were several guest judges including Benita Cooper founder of the Best Day program; Mary Ann Sullivan, CAVS Director, Volunteer and Guest Services Inspira Health Network; Michele Epifani Executive Director SJVolunteers.org; and Beth Daddario Director Volunteers, Retail, and Guest Services Inspira Medical Center Vineland who is also the President of NJAHVRP. “These ladies certainly had a difficult time picking the winning entries since everything was just so delicious,” added Mezis.
