June 19, 2002

Pavilions opens cottages, aquatic wellness center

Cottages part of residential community for older adults

By LISA PERKINS
Herald staff writer
       Grand Traverse Pavilions hosted a dedication ceremony last Thursday for the newly completed Aquatic/Wellness Center and the opening of Hawthorn and Willow Cottages on the grounds of the Grand Traverse Commons.
      "Everything we see here was a dream 13 or 14 years ago, this is even beyond our dreams," said Ralph Soffredine, chairman of the Grand Traverse County Family Independence Agency board.
      "It's amazing that we here in Grand Traverse County have a facility like we have to make life better for the citizens of our county - it makes our county a better place to live," he noted.
      Two turn-of-the-century Victorian buildings on the grounds of the Grand Traverse Commons have been restored and join the previously opened Evergreen Cottage, as part of a residential community for older adults seeking independent and supportive living accommodations.
      One of the first buildings on campus, Willow Cottage was originally constructed in 1892 and was formerly the Traverse City State Hospital Museum. The building now offers 23 assisted living suites and one overnight respite accommodation for seniors. Hawthorn Cottage, built in 1904, has also been restored and is currently the home to 26 studio and one bedroom apartments for older adults.
      "I've just been here a few weeks, but I think this place is great," said Virginia Nelson, a resident of Hawthorn House.
      The Aquatic/Wellness Center offers rehabilitative therapy services to residents of Grand Traverse Pavilions and to the community. The center is designed to aid individuals who are recovering from hip, knee, back or other surgeries, heart attack or stroke. Any adult who wants to improve cardiovascular health, muscular strength and endurance, balance, flexibility or neuro-muscular coordination may also benefit.
      The Center features a uniquely designed deep, warm water pool, strength and cardiovascular equipment, treatment rooms and men's and women's locker rooms. A certified team of physical, speech, aquatic and occupational therapists is on staff.
      "This Center is the icing on the cake, we were glad to be able to add this, as it was not part of the original plans. We know how important preventative and rehabilitative health care is," said Richard Marion, CEO and administrator of Grand Traverse Pavilions.
      Grand Traverse Pavilions is operated by the Grand Traverse County Family Independence Agency Board and owned by Grand Traverse County. For more information, call 932-3051 or 932-3050.