CAMDEN — Quarry Hill used the occasion of its summer Lobster Bake, August 18, to launch the celebration of its 15th year as a Midcoast residential community for adults age 55 and better.

An end-of-summer tradition at Quarry Hill for more than a decade, the Lobster Bake brings together residents, prospective residents, and staff members for an outdoor gathering complete with steamed lobster and other seafood, live entertainment, and socializing. This year's fête also featured a 15th anniversary ice sculpture created by a member of Quarry Hill's Dining Services team and a display honoring the 25 current residents and 31 current staff members who have lived or worked at Quarry Hill since it opened in 2002. A jazz ensemble headed by local musician Glen Sargent brought a few guests to their feet to dance.

Quarry Hill will continue celebrating the 15-year milestone by weaving the theme into the numerous events and social gatherings it hosts for residents and the wider public year round.

The area's only extended-care community traces its roots back to 1996, when a citizens task force began looking for new uses for the site of the former Camden Health Care Center. The concept of an extended-care community emerged as the best way to serve the needs of older adults, and construction of Quarry Hill's 45 cottages and central Anderson Inn began.

Today, Quarry Hill provides independent living and assisted living for adults age 55-plus, as well as short- and long-term nursing care and rehabilitation. The community provides diverse educational programs, support groups, and other events offered throughout the year.