According to Beverly Solomon, the best thing about Lions Gate is the home-cooked food.
“I. Hate. To. Cook!” laughed Beverly. “I was getting tired of cooking for myself, so getting dinner served to me every day here at Lions Gate is a treat. And soon we’ll be eating together in the formal dining room again. If I’d known what a relief it would be to have someone else cook for me, I’d have moved here years ago.”
Beverly and her dog, Skittles, moved into Lions Gate in September 2019. Originally from Haddonfield, NJ, Beverly had been a widow for more than 20 years. Her four sons encouraged her to consider a move to Lions Gate.
“My four boys live all over the country, from Brooklyn to New Jersey to Chicago,” said Beverly. “My boys wanted to find me a new home where I could live among friends, and suggested Lions Gate. I have friends that live here whom I have known for more than 50 years. But now that I live here myself, I have met new people who have also become good friends. My boys never have to worry if it was the right decision to move to Lions Gate. They know I’m treated like family here. This feels like home to me.”
Beverly had been active in the Jewish community all her life, so she was interested in joining the Shabbat services at Lions Gate. “I loved my old synagogue, and wasn’t sure if I would find the same connection with a new Rabbi. But Rabbi Rayna is so genuine and warm, I immediately felt at home. Her services are always thoughtfully prepared, and I appreciate the fact that I come away learning something new every time. I really find it comforting to live among friends who share the same faith as I do. It makes the holidays that much more meaningful.”
Beverly is very optimistic about her future at Lions Gate. “They do everything here to make you happy,” she enthused. “They made the move so easy, and I love my cozy apartment. And they certainly have gone above and beyond during the pandemic to make us feel safe and cared for. The vaccination process was absolutely perfect — so easy. I appreciate the difficulties the staff has had to deal with. They have done a remarkable job!”