Community Corner

Aspiring Eagle Scout Creates Garden For Memory-Care Residents

Jake Otjen selected the Murrieta facility where his grandpa resides as the site to build raised garden beds for his scouting project.

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Murrieta teen and aspiring Eagle Scout Jake Otjen with his grandfather Mike “Lonnie” Kienitz at Vineyard Place. (Courtesy of Anthem Memory Care)
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Anthem Memory Care residents plant flowers in new raised beds in Murrieta. (Courtesy of Anthem Memory Care)
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Mike “Lonnie” Kienitz enjoys the raised garden beds, courtesy of his grandson, at Vineyard Place. (Courtesy of Anthem Memory Care)
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Kaye Johnson at Vineyard Place. (Courtesy of Anthem Memory Care)
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Terry Brickel (left) with son Jake Otjen and grandfather Mike “Lonnie” Kienitz. (Courtesy of Anthem Memory Care)
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Maria Mariano, Vineyard Place assistant (left) and Miyoko Tsuchiyose. (Courtesy of Anthem Memory Care)

MURRIETA, CA — For a project to earn his Eagle Scout ranking, local teen Jake Otjen chose to build raised garden beds for residents at Vineyard Place, a memory-care community where his grandfather, Mike “Lonnie” Kienitz, lives in Murrieta.

“Jake has given the residents a true gift, especially in this time of pandemic when outdoor activities are even more important,” said Chris Balmes, the facility's life engagement director. “Many of our residents used to garden earlier in their lives, and the raised beds allow them to continue this pursuit they love so much.”

Located at 24325 Washington Ave., Vineyard Place is operated by Anthem Memory Care, a nationwide company that offers community living for individuals struggling with memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia.

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Way to go, Jake! Congrats on a great project! Check out the photo show ...

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