Ruth and Jake Strauss moved into LHS on March 26, 1986 from Nutley, New Jersey. Jake had just retired and they wanted a smaller home and less up-keep. After looking at several retirement communities in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, they chose Lions Head South for a number of reasons. They wanted to be able to travel easily to their family members in North Jersey and Pennsauken areas. The nearby Parkway and Route 70 made this possible. The quality of home construction and variety of models, golf course, and amenities were appealing as well. It was an adventure unfolding, with new streets being paved and sections of homes being built and sold one new area at a time.

"There was a feeling of camaraderie among the residents who stepped up to volunteer to organize and develop an active lifestyle. We all were starting a new chapter in our lives and hoped we had made the right choice to move into an Adult Community," Ruth said.The Committees were forming and there were many parties, activities to enjoy, as well as philanthropic fund raising events for residents needs as well as for the Brick Community. When the Lionettes were unable to find a sponsor for a Fashion Show for their fundraiser, which each year had provided a scholarship for graduating students at both high schools in Brick, they decided to perform an all-male mock wedding. The wedding of Susan Mock and William Wedding was hold in April of 1992, for 350 people at Mike Doolans in Spring Lake Heights (Jake agreed to be "Bride" and Ed Merlino the "Groom") with complete Bridal Party, parents, dignitaries, etc. It is still fondly spoken of today."We jumped in with both feet" said Ruth. Husband Jake was appointed as a Trustee representative (Lions Head Corporation still had Board Control) due to the resignation of a resident for health reasons, and then he ran for office and served two more terms. Additionally, he was inspired to organize and institute the Holiday Party at Christmas for income challenged school children in Brick, sadly he passed away on December 11, 1998, the night before the first party. However, the party was held and the parties continued for ten more years with support and love from so many Lions Head volunteers.

"It was a wonderful decision moving here. The residents are more than neighbors, they are like family; helpful and generous with their time and concerns," Ruth stated. "Because we are a pocket community, with no through streets, we have peaceful, green nature blessed surroundings, yet just short distances to areas that address our needs," Ruth said with a smile on her face. Her hope is that all the new residents will soon be able to enjoy all the activities LHS has provided her for so many years.