South Mountain Memory Care celebrated its official opening with an open house and ribbon cutting ceremony May 1.

Approximately 50 people attended the event.

The newly constructed facility is on 201 S. 7th Street in Emmaus and opened its doors Feb. 9. The facility features 20 spacious private rooms and four spacious semi-private rooms with natural light and a private bathroom.

The design and layout of the facility was intended to minimize overstimulation, confusion and distractions for its residents who are managing dementia issues. The 24-room center features two 12 room houses and a shared central town hall. The central area can be used for arts and crafts, dining and group activities.

Visitors to the open house enjoyed a variety of appetizers such as asparagus wrapped in goat cheese and mini quiches. Local wines were served alongside a fruit and vegetable plate. Three stacked pineapples centered the table and a watermelon, carved with the company logo was designed by Kristen Hartman, the life enrichment director. Desserts included cream puffs, mini assorted cheesecakes, dark chocolate truffles, lemon truffles, pecan bars and raspberry cream cheese brownies.

The facility has a breakfast nook and two additional dining areas for lunch and dinner. Cheryl Feist, of Catasauqua, is the food service director and has worked in the food service industry for over 30 years. Fiest and Chef Bridgette Doyle, of Emmaus, work well together because they complement each other.

“Bridgette likes to cook and I like to bake,” Feist said.

The size of the facility was a big draw for her as well.

“It’s nice because it’s small,” Feist added.

Vickie Snyder, executive director for South Mountain Memory of Germansville, who has spent over 35 years serving the seniors of the Lehigh Valley, reflected on the ribbon cutting ceremony.

“Today’s event not only gave all of us the opportunity to introduce this beautiful building to our community, it afforded us a venue to share our philosophy of care. South Mountain Memory Care was founded on the concept that loving, compassionate and quality care, offered in a small house model, naturally promotes a culture of resident-centered care.” Snyder said.

For more information go to www.southmountainmemorycare.com