 When plans were being made for the design of the Center for All Generations, taking care of details was critical. One that didn't slip through the proverbial 'crack' was Jimmy's Place. The concept of Jimmy's Place was inspired by Jimmy Scarborough a volunteer for the Council on Aging's Meals on Wheels Program for ten years.
Jimmy passed away in 1998, but his love of animals and his work with the Council is being remembered by the creation of a pet shelter. The shelter will provide boarding for the pets of elderly and disabled persons while their owners are hospitalized or while they are in the special needs shelter.
Many elderly or disabled persons hesitate to receive in-patient medical services for fear that their pet will not have daily care. Jimmy's Place will avoid these dilemmas. "He loved animals, especially Heidi, our little dog," reminisced Pat Scarborough, Jimmy's wife. "He had a huge heart for people in need and for animals." Pat began the funding with a $10,000 contribution and has since raised money by encouraging people to donate to the Council on Aging in lieu of flowers for funerals. "The flowers are beautiful, but the money could have such a lasting impact for so many persons and their pets if given to the Council instead," she stated. "I know Jimmy is up in heaven right now, taking care of the animals, always looking out for those that can't fend for themselves." |
|
 Clyde Pierson believed in America. After serving in the U.S. Army during World War II and being awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Clyde returned to Ohio where he married Ila Foust, and owned and operated Marion Electric Motor Service. He moved his family to Kissimmee in 1960 where he raised his children, mentored and guided his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and left an indelible mark on this community. Just ask his old gang at Joanie's Diner on Broadway in Kissimmee. Clyde could be found there most any morning sharing his favorite breakfast of biscuits and gravy with his grandchildren, great-grandchildren or one of numerous friends, though he and his friends were more likely found at the famous Liar's Club table where Clyde was known to hold his own with tales of his travels.
On April 25, 2006, Clyde Pierson, or GP as he was fondly referred to, passed away leaving a saddened family and a community and a country with one less loyal American. So as never to be forgotten, his wife of 60 years, Ila, decided to make a generous contribution in his name to the Osceola Council on Aging.
Clyde's extended family has long been involved with the Council, volunteering to deliver meals on Thanksgiving and Christmas, serving on Council Boards and Committees and contributing to the many events and programs offered by the Council. Now something lasting will be a living testimony to the long time resident who called Osceola County his home. That memory will be in the form of one of Clyde's favorite places and will be located inside the most ambitious project the Council on Aging has ever taken on. It will be called Clyde's Café, situated beside the congregate program rooms in the Barney E. Veal Center for All Generations. With a theme that takes pride in America and reflects on its leadership in the defense of freedom, the café will be a permanent connection to future generations encouraging patriotism and gratitude to our country. "Clyde would be so proud and I'm sure he'll be there in spirit everyday, " said Ila. "I know all his friends won't be able to resist paying a visit and share some memories of Clyde, maybe even a good tale or two".
Clyde's Cafe is open Monday thru Friday, 9am until 2pm for Continental Breakfast, soups, sandwiches and salads. Please call for specials and to schedule the Cafe for special events. |
