Generosity Drives Community’s Annual Jewelry Fundraiser

On Saturday, Nov. 16, Piedmont Gardens senior living community will host its 3rd Annual Vintage and Modern Jewelry and Watch Sale. Among the necklaces, medallions, rings, earrings, and bracelets kindly donated by residents, team members and friends of the community, there will be a number of pieces courtesy of Mike Lubin.

The pieces belonged to Mary, his wife of 63 years who passed away earlier this year. The two had been together since the day they met at an acquaintance dance in Boston on Valentine’s Day.

“I’m very fond of the people at Piedmont Gardens; I’m fond of the place. The least I can do is donate some jewelry,” said Lubin, who quipped he wasn’t going to wear any of the fine and antique pieces.

The Lubins always planned to retire in the Bay Area. Mike spent nearly 30 years in the Air Force, retiring as a colonel, then embarked on a second career as an engineer. Mary spent her career in the medical field as a nurse, including in senior living as a director of nursing and administrator.

By the time they moved to Piedmont Gardens in 2015, Mary had been living with Parkinson’s for more than 25 years. Her familiarity with senior living, and Piedmont Gardens’ highly regarded skilled nursing, made the transition that much easier.

“It’s a great community and I’m very glad we moved here,” said Lubin, who now runs the community’s “Make and Mend” repair shop. “The location is wonderful, the people are nice, and there are more activities than I can hope to partake in.”

Piedmont Gardens’ jewelry sale will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 33 Linda Avenue in Oakland. Friends and neighbors are welcomed and encouraged to attend, and all proceeds will help fund many resident-driven programs and activities at the community.