On Friday, June 13th, 2025, The Lodge at Bethany hosted a spirited Father's Day celebration, ‘Take Me Out to the Ballgame’ with a fun and nostalgic baseball theme! Since many of our Dads and residents are devoted Braves fans and fans of other favorite teams, it was the perfect way to honor the great men in our Bethany community.
Bethany’s population of men is small, with 5 incredible dads currently residing at the Lodge, this event was filled with heart, laughter, and love. Each Dad was honored as an ‘All-Star’ with a personalized trophy and a baseball-themed goodie bag complete with classic baseball socks and surprises.
The celebration kicked off earlier in the week with a ‘pre-game party’ on Wednesday. Residents packed the room to enjoy the inspiring baseball movie The Hill starring Dennis Quaid. The true story deeply resonated with many and were all coming out saying, On Friday, the community came alive. Residents and family guests were encouraged to wear their favorite team’s T-shirts, jerseys, and baseball caps. The dining room transformed into a mini ballpark, complete with a baseball-themed backdrop, red, white, and blue balloon arch, and festive table settings.
Lunch was a home run! The TLAB dining room featured a full hot dog cart with all the fixings. (chili, cheese, onions, coleslaw, relish, sauerkraut, and more). Mr. Bill and Beth Akins, long time volunteers and friends of the Lodge, graciously manned ‘Grilling the Dogs’.
At 2:00 p.m., the real party began! Residents and guests enjoyed ice-cold Coca-Cola, boiled peanuts, Cracker Jacks and cupcakes decorated with a baseball theme. Music filled the room and everyone joined in singing, clapping, dancing, and moments of pure joy.
Jerri Mathis, Engagement Director, reflected on the meaning of fatherhood. “I know how important having a Dad is in your life. I see through my husband what it means to be a father, a leader of the family, loving, supportive, and always present.”
Bethany echoed these sentiments, reflecting on the incredible fathers in our community, men who have served our country, led successful careers as businessmen, pastors, educators, farmers, and even rocket scientists. We are truly blessed to know and celebrate each one.
To all our Dads,You are our heroes,our anchors and our All-Stars. Thank you.
