ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (September 4, 2019) – Residents at The Fountains at Boca Ciega Bay in St. Petersburg brewed their own craft beer as part of the community’s Homebrewing class. More than 40 residents attended the class and helped to create “Fountain of Youth Brew,” The Fountain’s unique beer that pays homage to the youthful spirit of its residents.
The Homebrewing class was developed after residents expressed their interest in the homebrewing process. During the six-week class – Homebrewing 101 – residents learned about the history of homebrewing, as well as the process. They also played a hands-on role in creating and bottling the beer.
“Residents were involved in the process from beginning to end,” said Melissa Krysh, Community Life Director at The Fountains at Boca Ciega Bay, who helped teach the class. “They helped to boil and steep the hops, bottle the fermented beer and label the finished product. A few even shared memories of their family’s homebrewing along the way.”
The Fountain’s Dining Services Director, Chris Wojewnik, led the course.
The artwork on the bottle label was created by resident Stella Szemela and was inspired by her waterfront view at The Fountains community. Szemela has been featured twice in the Expressions Calendar, published by Watermark Retirement Communities. Her work was also featured in the American Seniors Housing Association (ASHA) State of Seniors Housing Report.
The Fountains at Boca Ciega Bay purchased the homebrewing equipment after being awarded with Watermark Retirement Communities’ Betty Short Extraordinary Program award in 2017. The award included a $10,000 prize, which was used to further enhance the community’s programming to ensure residents thrive.
“It’s always great to see residents light up when they learn about something new and this class was a perfect example of that,” said Krysh. “They had such a great time learning about the process and were thrilled to try a beer they had a hand in making, and toast with their friends at the end of the class.”
The Fountains at Boca Ciega Bay offers educational programming through Watermark University. Residents can attend and even teach classes that showcase their passions and engage their minds.
About The Fountains at Boca Ciega Bay
The Fountains at Boca Ciega Bay is a retirement community in St. Petersburg located at 1255 Pasadena Avenue South on a 14-acre waterfront property. The community offers independent living, assisted living and memory care, with short and long-term skilled nursing and rehabilitation at The Springs, an on-site health center operated by Summit Care. The Fountains’ vibrant lifestyle includes multiple dining options, an extensive calendar of events, outings, classes, clubs and fitness opportunities. Managed by Watermark Retirement Communities, The Fountains at Boca Ciega Bay is committed to creating an extraordinary community where people thrive. For more information, visit bocaciegabay.watermarkcommunities.com.