Karaoke Night at the Rocky Point Ale House
As regulars at the Rocky Point Ale House poured in for Karaoke Night on July 30, you could hear lively conversations among patrons about the songs they wanted to sing, while others wondered who the reserved seats were for at the front of house.
That’s when people supported at the Shoreham Intermediate Care Facility (ICF), and staff, entered wearing party hats and boas, ready for a night on the town.
Among those in attendance were none other than Patty McCarthy, Paul Schlender, Jeffrey Bloch, roommates from the Magnolia house, and Vince Marino and Michel Iver, roommates from the Rosewood house. They arrived ready to listen to music, perform, and dance.
As fellow Ale House patrons took their turns, the five listened attentively, dancing along and showing support. Soon, it was time for the first of the crew to sing, Patty and Maura!
Patty and Maura sang “We Are Family” by Sister Sledge. The famous disco song had everyone clapping and singing along. While holding an acoustic guitar, Paul sang “Ring of Fire” by Johnny Cash with Sabrina Cenite and Nicholas Stewart, who are Direct Support Professionals (DSPs). It was a classic choice, delighting everyone in attendance.
Next up was Vince, who sang his favorite song, “Jingle Bells.” No matter the time of year, Vince enjoys listening to and singing holiday songs. Everyone welcomed his festive holiday energy, as the Ale House erupted into holiday cheer!
“He just made my entire year,” Maura said. “The smile on his face made me so happy.”
To end the night, Patty and Maura sang “Love Me Tender” by Elvis Presley. Everyone was so moved, they gave a standing ovation. As Patty left with her friends, she told the crowd that she would be back soon.
Throughout the evening, Rocky Point Ale House staff worked diligently to ensure everyone had what they needed for a night of music and letting loose.
This was not the first time people who reside and work at the Shoreham ICF visited the Rocky Point Ale House.
“We came on opening day for the Mets game,” Maura said. “We all got on our Mets t-shirts and our hats, came down, and had the best time, meeting some amazing people who live in the community. And we found out about karaoke night, so we practiced.”
Many of the people who reside at the Shoreham ICF have complex medical and behavioral needs, but daily, the staff work with each person individually to ensure they are living full and enriching lives. Whether it’s planning a personalized birthday celebration or organizing a karaoke night outing at the local ale house, great things are happening at Shoreham all the time.