Cast of characters
Natalie Reid Miller/Observer-Reporter
Clarence and Nancy Spicer portray “Green Acres” characters Oliver and Lisa Douglas, with Arnold the Pig, during a photo shoot Friday at Strabane Trails Village.
Natalie Reid Miller/Observer-Reporter
A call sheet for the Friday photo shoot
The cast of “Green Acres” was resurrected Friday by a troupe of Strabane Trails Village residents. Lisa Douglas was there, as were Oliver Wendell Douglas, Mother Douglas, Eb and Mr. Haney. And, even though she hails from “Gilligan’s Island,” Mary Ann and her iconic brunette pigtails made an appearance, too.
“I’m loving it,” said resident Cathy Helms, who was preparing to don the Mary Ann wig. “This is the first time I was asked to be a part of this and I’m honored.”
Natalie Reid Miller/Observer-Reporter
Natalie Reid Miller/Observer-Reporter
Debbie Panei of UPMC applies makeup to Strabane Trails resident Cathy Helms, who portrayed Mary Ann of “Gilligan’s Island.” Mary Ann’s wig is in the foreground.
The residents took on roles of recognizable television series characters for a calendar, the proceeds of which benefit the UPMC Senior Communities Benevo1lent Care Fund, which assists those who outlive their financial resources.
About 15 residents got the star treatment in preparation for the photo shoot, with makeup, hair and wardrobe treatment.
“This is a big to-do for the residents. It’s quickly becoming a tradition,” said Jon Ebel, communications coordinator.
Colleen Dille, activities coordinator, has been an employee of Strabane Trails since it opened, about 16 years ago. She said residents were thrilled to take part in the fundraiser.
“Every year, it gets more and more fun to come to work because of things like this,” Dille said.
Previous calendars included infamous musical acts and record covers.
UPMC Senior Communities has been producing the calendar for nine years. Through the Benevolent Care Fund, more than $4 million is provided annually in uncompensated care and charitable relief to residents in need.
Natalie Reid Miller/Observer-Reporter
Natalie Reid Miller/Observer-Reporter
Residents, front row, from left, Catherine Walker and Don Dever, and back, Robert Walker, Nancy and Clarence Spicer, get direction from photographer Kevin Cooke.
This year’s finished product, shot by photographers Marc Soracco and Kevin Cooke, will be released in October, in time for the organization’s yearly dinner and auction.
Among the first to be photographed Friday were Robert and Catherine Walker, who celebrated 78 years together Sunday, and Nancy and Clarence Spencer.
Clarence, a retired CPA, couldn’t contain his mirth upon seeing Nancy in a pink boa and blond wig as Lisa Douglas of “Green Acres.”
“Every time I saw her, I busted out laughing,” Clarence said. “I better stop because I don’t want to sleep in the car.”