HOWLAND - It was a trip down memory lane as visitors to Shepherd of the Valley in Howland celebrated 40 years with trivia and memorabilia from the 1970s to the present.
Shepherd of the Valley is marking its 40th anniversary this year with celebrations held at Shepherd of Valley locations in Niles, Boardman, Poland and Howland.
Lynn Miller, marketing for Shepherd of the Valley, said the event included a gathering of staff and residents, performances by the Shepherd of the Valley bell choir, music, trivia, prizes and games.
Shepherd of the Valley began in 1972 when area Lutheran churches committed to providing housing for the area's elderly. The Lutheran Women's League provided the first gift of $10,000.
Earlier this year, Shepherd of the Valley got another gift.
Doris Hyde of Howland wanted to honor the memory of her son, Dr. Gary Hyde, in a visible way that would reflect his dedication to his patients.
This wish came true when a new ambulance entrance canopy was dedicated at Shepherd of the Valley in Howland. Doris Hyde made a gift to completely underwrite the cost of building and installing the ambulance entrance canopy.
Hyde presented this gift to Shepherd's Foundation in memory of her son who died this past September.
"This gift will meet a very important need that has long been identified here to better serve our residents," said Tamara Salvino, associate director of the Howland site.