“It’s all about bringing joy to the people.”
Sister Anece Salay (in red) joyfully flaps along in the Chicken Dance-Off with Betty Aiello Oberst, a 1952 graduate of Mount Assisi Academy, and other residents of Mt. Assisi Place on July 26, 2024.
For the Love of Joy
SISTERS ‘FLOAT’ & ‘FLAP’ THEIR WAY
THROUGH A FUN-FILLED SUMMER EVENT
To the delight of onlookers, Sister Kevin Berdis races through the Flamingo Frenzy obstacle course on July 26, 2024. Participants had to complete four challenges while wearing a flamingo-shaped pool float.
Each summer, Mt. Assisi Place in Pittsburgh, which occupies our former Mount Assisi motherhouse, hosts its Hilltop Olympics & Summer Picnic to celebrate the residents, employees and family members who make up the personal care community. While everyone enjoys a traditional picnic lunch outdoors, staff members and friends participate in fun, friendly competitions to entertain the elderly Residents. This year’s event was on July 26, the same day that the real 2024 Olympics kicked off in Paris.
Among the outstanding “athletes” were our very own Sisters Kevin Berdis and Anece Salay. The fleet-footed Sister Kevin turned in an impressive performance in the Flamingo Frenzy obstacle course, her veil lifted by the breeze as she seemed to float over and around each obstacle. Her 32-second time was enough for the silver medal.
Later on, everyone — no matter their mobility level — took part in the Chicken Dance-Off. Residents, staff members and even grandchildren laughed and flapped their way through multiple rounds of the quirky dance that is a staple of wedding receptions. With her energetic effort and a contagious smile, Sister Anece was one of three dancers to take home a trophy. Sister Elaine Hromulak also took part.
The fun was just a bonus, as true grace and a spirit of togetherness filled the day. “Did you see how happy everyone was?” Sister Anece exclaims. “It’s all about bringing joy to the people.”
Thanks to Sister Roselyn Kuzma for snapping these fun photos.
The smiles of Sisters Anece and Kevin outshine even their trophies.
Sister Jo Goolish (right) shares a picnic lunch with Sister Lois Jean DiFalco.