Last Friday OceanView celebrated its 31st anniversary with an Egyptian-themed bash! Our Blueberry Commons room was transformed into the “Valley of Kings” desert, complete with the Great Pyramids, Sphinx and King Tut’s sarcophagus.

Residents, some of whom were in costume, enjoyed appetizers and drinks seated around tables decorated with stones, scarabs, grasses and reeds. Music group “Zapion” added to the exotic atmosphere with performances of Turkish, Arab, Iranian, Balkan, Greek and Armenian dance music.

Residents then adjourned to the Main Dining Room where they were met by our waitstaff dressed in bright belted drapes, and golden head and neck pieces. The special dinner started with Roasted Carrot Soup and Hummus Plates. Entrees included Citrus Marinated Salmon over Tabbouleh, and Hazelnut Encrusted Chicken Breast over Eggplant Caponata. The dinner concluded with Egyptian Basbousa Cake (recipe below!) with Rose Petals and Macerated Strawberries, along with refreshing mint tea.

And so we raise a glass in gratitude to the remarkable OceanView community of residents and staff for making these past 31 years truly unforgettable. Here’s to another memorable year!