The Generation That Lived and Loved Frank Sinatra Celebrates the Legend's 100th Birthday in Style at Ashby Ponds

(Ashburn, Virginia) –December 12, 2015 marks what would have been legendary singer, songwriter, and actor, Frank Sinatra’s 100th birthday. Honoring the man who many consider one of the most popular musical artists of all time, residents at Ashby Ponds, an Erickson Living retirement community in Ashburn, hosted a community-wide sing-along and look-alike contest during their weekly Wednesday night Happy Hour.

More than 50 people joined in the celebration at the community’s Windows lounge as guitarist Tony Greenfield played Sinatra favorites including Fly Me to the Moon, You Are My Sunshine, and Sinatra’s signature melody, New York, New York.

“It’s easy to see why Sinatra was so popular,” said Greenfield, whose mother Carolyn Greenfield lives at Ashby Ponds. “His music really resonates with people.”

As they sang, guests toasted the Hollywood icon over specially-crafted Sinatra Manhattan martinis. Eight, fedora-sporting residents, including two women and six men, participated in a Frank Sinatra look-alike contest.

Jacque Hill, competing with the grace of Frank’s daughter Nancy, received the most votes, taking home a CD of Frank Sinatra classics.

“This is such a fun way to remember Sinatra,” said Hill. “I really didn’t expect to win but I’m thrilled that I did!”

The Sinatra sing-a-long and look-alike contest are just a few of the activities planned for Ashby Ponds’ weeklong 100th birthday celebration. Earlier in the week residents enjoyed a Sinatra Movie Day featuring “Guys and Dolls,” and “The Manchurian Candidate.” In addition, all of the Ashby Ponds culinary venues are featuring a sampling of Sinatra’s favorite dishes including Clams Posillipo and Oyster Rockefeller.

The week’s festivities will conclude on Friday with a performance by local performer and acclaimed Sinatra entertainer, Billy Finch. Previously, Finch has dazzled audiences at The Kennedy Center, Wolf Trap, and the White House.

About Ashby Ponds: Ashby Ponds, one of 18 retirement communities managed by Erickson Living, is situated on a scenic 132-acre campus in Ashburn, Virginia (approximately 30 miles west of Washington, D.C.). The community is home to over 1000 residents and more than 140 resident-run and resident-driven clubs and groups, an indoor pool, a fitness club, transportation services, 24-hour security, and flexible dining options. More information about Ashby Ponds can be found at www.ericksonliving.com.