Ulster County News

FROM: ULSTER COUNTY PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE

DATE: January 24, 2002 

Sheree Cross, Acting Director at Golden Hill Health Care Center, is pleased to announce that on January 30^th at 1:30 P.M. there will be a Tree of Life ceremony at Golden Hill Health Care Center. The opening ceremony is to introduce the new "Tree of Life" and what it represents-the celebration of residents’ lives and recognition of the special care the staff at Golden Hill Health Care Center provides. All Ulster County legislators have been asked to attend this celebration. This ceremony is also opened to the public and everyone is urged to stop by and take a look at the beautiful "Tree of Life" blooming in the lobby.

The Tree of Life began as a Labor Management Committee response to a heart- felt need expressed by family members and friends. The Labor Management Committee consists of both union members and management staff at the Golden Hill Health facility. The committee meets monthly to work together to creatively find ways to improve morale and working conditions at the Golden Hill facility. Staff, family member and friends wanted a permanent, visible way to express their feelings, appreciation and celebration of life. The Tree of Life became the answer. Anyone can express their appreciation, gratitude or celebrate a life or a life event through the leaves of the tree. The charge per leaf is $75 which includes engraving up to sixty characters by Timely Signs.

The shining brass tree was pieced together and mounted by maintenance employees of the facility on a rich oak background skillfully crafted by staff of the County’s Buildings and Grounds Department. The tree hangs on the left as you enter the lobby, just past the reception desk where it can be studied and enjoyed by residents and all who enter the building.

Currently there are over 300 leaves on the Tree of Life. Unlike some local "Trees", the charge for a leaf at Golden Hill is just a one-time fee and the leaf remains permanently affixed. For further information and order forms, please call the Golden Hill Health Care Center at (845) 340-3390.