ORANGE PARK – Palagio Senior Living was presented not one, not two, but three Best of Clay awards during a red carpet ceremony on May 1.

Best of Clay is an annual contest hosted by Clay Today, during which the community has the opportunity to acknowledge the best businesses, stores, services, restaurants and more in Clay County. 

Best of Clay 2024 received an unprecedented 181,186 votes and 29,355 nominations, making this year's contest the biggest yet. 

Determined by Clay County voters, Palagio was voted the first-place winner for memory care, assisted living and senior living.

Marketing Director Ashley Robinson was honored Palagio was recognized by the community as being the best choice for their loved ones for the second year in a row.

"Winning Best of Clay is a tremendous honor because it is an award voted by the community. When we come to work, it's like we're coming in to care for our family. We're a part of their world as much as they're a part of ours," Robinson said. 

She said she appreciated each and every vote. 

The Best of Clay award ceremony also announced Crystal Major as the new executive director. 

"Crystal (Major) comes with a phenomenal knowledge of senior communities, and her energy and professionalism are a welcome addition to the Palagio team," Robinson said. 

Major has over 20 years in the healthcare industry, specializing in senior living for the last 10 years.

"I'm very excited. I'm excited to be a part of Palagio and to start our family. We have a great team, great people. (It is) very welcoming," Major said. 

She said working in memory care is an intrinsically meaningful part of her profession, one that she looks forward to. 

"(Those in memory care) are our most vulnerable population. They just want love and to spend time with you. We are here for those who can't advocate for themselves," Major said. 

According to Palagio's website, the facility utilizes The Montessori Method for cognitive memory care, an approach that combines rehabilitation and education.

"In older adults with dementia, this has been shown to benefit both mood and mental health because the individual is engaged constructively and positively."

Palagio is located at 1525 Kingsley Ave. Orange Park and the senior living facility host events for residents and their families throughout the year. Robinson invites those interested in joining the Palagio family to call to set up a tour at 904-639-4700.