decisions. I did all the shopping, prep work and cooking, just as I would have for my own family.” Dinner came out great, and the “Cat in the Hat” cake was secondary. It was the first time Luxenburg used black frosting, which turned into a beast of its own. “I’m flattered when someone asks me to make something for an important occasion or event,” he said. “Each time I create something, I put pressure on myself to WOW the client and make something nicer than I made the time before.” He also told us that everything is as fresh as possible because he cooks and bakes for others just as he does for his family. When asked if his kids help in the kitchen, Luxenburg, the father of four, ages 10 – 14, says they would like to help more than he lets them. They usually go to sleep as the cakes are cooling and see the creations, or photos of the creations, when they wake up in the morning. When completing this story, and stopping by to take photographs, Luxenburg’s table was full. He was preparing and decorating 400 cupcakes that were donated to the Community Thank-You Celebration and BBQ which honored Richard A. Markwardt, Ph.D., upon his retirement from Beachwood City Schools; two bridal shower cupcake cakes; and a ruffle layer cake. Being in awe of the cakes, I never asked Luxenburg whose showers the cakes were for. The icing on the cake was when I walked into a bridal shower the next day, saw one of Luxenburg’s creations prominently on display, and witnessed all of the women’s comments about this beautiful masterpiece. When asked about his future baking plans, Luxenburg said, “I’ll continue to do this as long as it’s fun and challenging. Each time I bake, it’s not just a cake, it’s an experience; and every cake has a story to tell.” Montefiore MeMory Care network Leaders in Providing excePtionaL MeMory care for your Loved one The Willensky Residence, A Montefiore Assisted Living Memory Care Community, on our Beachwood campus, offers quality and compassionate care for individuals with dementia in a loving and safe environment. Our programming provides the stability of a routine while maximizing individuality. Specially-trained staff are on-site 24 hours a day. Some of our distinctive amenities High staff-to-resident ratio Assistance with bathing, grooming and dressing Housekeeping, laundry and linen change Activities to engage mind, body and spirit Innovative “life stations” centered on careers, hobbies & interests All rooms and suites include private bathroom and shower Private entrance and parking “Each time I create something, I put pressure on myself to WOW the client and make something nicer than I made the time before.” We help make this stage of life gentler and easier for residents and their families. New rooms filling up fast. Call today to schedule a tour. montefiorecare.org One David N. Myers Parkway Beachwood, OH 44122 To learn more, contact Kristen Morelli, memory care program manager, at 216.910.2323 or e-mail kmorelli@montefiorecare.org. July 2015 n Beachwood Buzz 37