Bridging g enerations, Building Futures
Barb Carter, a Garden Spot Village resident since February 2022, enjoyed tandem skydiving at Maytown Skydiving Club earlier this year.
EMBRACE VIBRANT
LIVING WITH PURPOSE AND JOY. Bruce and Alice Bishop, residents at Frederick Living, love their sense of community and purpose. Alice welcomes guests as a marketing receptionist, while Bruce stays active by working out in the Body Shop. Their lock-and-leave lifestyle allows for exciting travel adventures. Similarly, at Garden Spot Village, Resident Barb Carter bonded with team members when they went skydiving to celebrate her birthday, forming lifelong friendships. Both communities offer vibrant lifestyles, with opportunities for travel and shared experiences that create lasting memories.
ENCOUNTER
SATURDAY, APRIL 26, 2025
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LANCASTER
DISCOVER
THE JOY OF WORKING AT GARDEN SPOT COMMUNITIES
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FEATURES
FALL/WINTER 2024 | ISSUE 31
62 The Spark Starts with Us
Garden Spot Communities CEO Steve Lindsey reflects on the power of the Envisioned Future to Spark a Pro-Aging Revolution and transform our perspectives on aging.
67 Creating A Legacy
For more than 25 years Garden Spot Communities has been creating powerful intergenerational relationships, which impact people of all ages.
71 CrossGenerational Friendships
When you live and work at Garden Spot Communities, you can’t help but build friendships that impact the way you view the world. Relationships between residents and team members are encouraged and make Garden Spot Communities a very special place to live and work.
When Katie Kauffman went to Kenya to meet her sponsored child through Missions of Hope International, she discovered their many shared connections.
DEPARTMENTS
FIRST WORD
BRIDGING GENERATIONS: A LEGACY OF CONNECTION
Garden Spot Communities is known for providing abundant opportunities for those seeking to live with purpose in community in retirement. Within the retirement living industry, Garden Spot Communities is recognized as an innovative role model. This means that in a variety of significant areas, Garden Spot Communities is ahead of its time.
Intergenerational engagement is one of those areas. In 2006, the entire leadership team participated in an off-site meeting at the Hershey Hotel. We used an Open Space meeting format. The fascinating thing about an Open Space meeting is that it has a very loose structure. There’s a group ideation session followed by breakout groups. The tenets of an Open Space meeting include several characteristics.
Whoever comes are the right people. Whenever we start, we start. Whatever happens is the only thing that could happen. And when it’s over, it’s over. There is one additional interesting characteristic: the idea of the bumblebee. Participants can buzz around different areas of interest that have surfaced during the meeting.
On the basis of resident feedback, a group of leaders determined a need to intentionally create intergenerational opportunities. While residents appreciated living in a 55-plus community, they also wanted to interact with younger adults and children.
Over time there have been dozens of intergenerational initiatives. Some have come and gone. Others have gone on for years. Many were initiated at the request of residents. Examples include a long-standing pen pal program between residents and grade school kids, a Grandparents in Residence program at a local summer camp, the Wisdom Course involving residents and college students, the annual half-marathon and Kids Fun Run at Garden Spot Village, and the newly introduced Steady Freddie 5K at Frederick Living.
As originally conceived by their founders, Garden Spot Communities are not islands unto themselves. They’re involved in the greater community and around the world, intentionally engaging across generations and involving people of all ages.
In this issue of Destination , we celebrate intergenerational initiatives and activities. Our cover features a resident skydiver supported by younger Garden Spot Communities team members; see page 70 for the story. You’re invited to “dive in” to this issue and into one of the Garden Spot Communities, regardless of your age.
SCOTT MILLER Brand Editor & Chief Marketing Officer
BRAND EDITOR & CMO
Scott Miller
EDITOR & STORYTELLER
Juanita Fox
STORYTELLER
Betsy Natter
VISUAL DIRECTOR & DESIGNER
Brandon Adams
PHOTOGRAPHY AND ILLUSTRATIONS
The Premise Studio:
Jeremy Hess
GSC Creative Team: Brandon Adams, Sharon Sparkes, Haley Delgiacco
PLEASE SEND COMMENTS OR ARTICLE SUGGESTIONS TO: info@gardenspotcommunities.org
PLEASE SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO: info@gardenspotvillage.org
PUBLISHED BY: Garden Spot Communities
433 S Kinzer Avenue New Holland, PA 17557
VIEW ONLINE: destination.gardenspotcommunities.org
Sustainably printed to reflect Garden Spot Communities' commitment to environmental stewardship.
ISSUE NO. 31
PUBLISHED BIANNUALLY
Discover the Joy iN EVERY SEASON
Hit the target with our thrilling fall pumpkin smashing from the ziplines.
Experience the joy of a half million Christmas lights.
Feel the crisp air of autumn and the quiet beauty of winter at Refreshing Mountain. Every season, you can enjoy breathtaking adventures and peaceful moments. Navigate the ziplines surrounded by fall foliage or take a serene walk amidst our vast display of Christmas lights. Each visit promises a unique and memorable experience. Plan your visit
“THAT’S WHAT CHRISTMAS IS ALL ABOUT!”
Join us at the Garden Spot Village Christmas Market on Saturday, December 7, 10am–3pm
Bring your family and friends to shop at our Makers Market, stores, and Wood Shop, and enjoy our restaurants and cafes. Don’t miss the familyfriendly activities, including the Train Room Open House, cookie decorating and readings of “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” which captures a child’s view of shepherds, angels, and a baby in a manger.
For more information, visit gsc.gl/christmasmarket
PEOPLE OF THE COMMUNITY
THE PEOPLE WHO LIVE & WORK HERE
PEOPLE OF THE COMMUNITY
Frederick Living residents Joe and Jane Genuardi visited quite a few communities in their search for a new place to call home in their retirement years. Visits elsewhere left Jane, in particular, feeling “not quite right” about making a move. Initially they were not even aware of the opportunities available at Frederick Living, but once they visited the campus, toured the villa that is now their home and shared a meal with another couple from the community, they were certain that Frederick would be their new home.
As Joe says, “Jane was right, this was the place.”
Jane agrees. “We’re very happy here. The people are just great—friendly, caring and sweet,” she says.
They especially enjoy their beautiful backyard, which they can easily view from the large sliding glass door that is
central to their living room. Flowers they brought from their home in Collegeville and transplanted around their patio create a colorful display throughout the spring to fall seasons. “The grounds here are so well manicured and are head and shoulders above other communities,” says Joe.
Jane’s love of nature is evident in the photographs she has captured of the many visitors to their garden and bird feeders. Bluebirds make a home in the nearby nesting box, hummingbirds visit the feeders, and foxes, deer, rabbits, ducks and chipmunks amble through the yard regularly. She also captures nature themes in the watercolor art she produces in their sunroom. She mostly creates notecards, which she gives to friends for their birthdays or special occasions. This creativity builds on her previous vocation of curating, matting and framing prints and selling them to local businesses. Her company, Picture This, once had the distinction of providing all the artwork for Pottstown Hospital, as well as for a nearby medical building.
Being active in the community and connecting with neighbors is very important to Joe and Jane. Jane loves to visit the community’s swan and serves with the Swan Club, which feeds him. Since she had prior experience assisting the gift shop manager at an area pharmaceutical company, Jane was eager to help establish N.B.’s Nook, the gift shop at Frederick Living. She volunteers there three days a week and enjoys greeting customers and organizing merchandise. “This was something I enjoyed doing, so I thought it was a good way for me to contribute and help out,” says Jane.
Joe, too, is active both on campus and in the greater community. Twice a month he volunteers at Valley Forge National Historical Park, both in the Visitor Center and on the Hut Brigade, making sure that the soldier huts scattered throughout the park are kept in repair. As a child, Joe visited his uncle in nearby Betzwood and has fond
memories of running through the open fields of what was then state-owned property. Maintaining the park’s beauty and its rich history inspires Joe in his volunteer work. “I’m proud to be a part of maintaining for future generations this place that meant so much to me as a kid.”
He also puts to use his experience in cost control within the hospital industry by serving on various committees and boards. Shortly after moving to Frederick Living, Joe was elected president of the Resident Association. He served two years and now continues in an advisory capacity. He additionally had the privilege of being the first resident to be appointed to the board of directors. This year his fellow board members also appointed him to fill Frederick Living’s seat on the larger Garden Spot Communities Board of Directors. He says, “I am truly honored to serve our community in this way and I look forward to working to provide even more opportunities for vibrant living
within the larger community.”
Joe and Jane also enjoy spending time outside the community and having the freedom to pursue hobbies and to travel. Joe is an avid golfer and likes playing the many courses that are in proximity to Frederick Living. He participates in the annual golf outing fundraiser sponsored by the local Perkiomen Valley Chapter of Knights of Columbus (Council #3633), of which he is a member. The organization provides thousands of dollars in scholarships to Catholic high school students annually.
When the biscotti jar on their kitchen counter gets close to empty, it’s time to head to Italy, one of the Genuardis’ favorite vacation sites. Joe and Jane love visiting the home of their ancestors, where Joe learned to make pasta by hand and Jane found inspiration for artwork that adorns their walls at home. They are thankful for both the opportunity to travel and a special place to call home.
PEOPLE OF THE COMMUNITY
SOCIALLY SPEAKING
TAPESTRY
EXPLORING OUR SHARED HUMANITY
nIthe summer of 2022, a set of Story Shacks appeared in key areas around the Garden Spot Village campus. Handcrafted by members of the Wood Shop and handpainted by members of the Art Guild, the miniature libraries were filled with memoirs and biographies that explore the African American experience. The following summers, the libraries have held books about other cultures such as indigenous peoples and Latinos. Story Shacks are just one part of the cultural awareness that Tapestry brings to Garden Spot Village.
A HISTORY OF CULTURAL AWARENESS
SaraJane Munshower, a Garden Spot Village resident since May 2019, says, “In the summer of 2020, in the wake of George Floyd’s death, Chet Yoder [director of Pastoral Services] invited me to a prayer vigil that the ELANCO Ministerium was hosting at the New Holland Community Park. After the prayer vigil, Chet and I began to talk about what might be done to explore racial literacy at Garden Spot Village.”
Paul Kelley, a Garden Spot Village resident since June 2007, joined SaraJane and Chet as they explored a series of book studies. “We previewed a dozen or so books over the
summer of 2020, with the intention of representing male and female and White and Black voices and different generations. We also wanted to challenge people intellectually and worked very hard not to bring a political bias to the group,” SaraJane says.
Forty-five people participated in that first set of book studies. Chaplain Karyn Nancarvis joined the committee as a discussion group leader; she continues to serve as pastoral leadership of the team.
Over the next couple of years, a movie series, presentations, a podcast, additional book studies and learning tours expanded cultural awareness at Garden Spot Village. Ruth Dunlap, a Garden Spot Village resident since March 2018, also joined the group.
In 2023, the group enlisted the help of the New Holland Historical
Ruth Dunlap, Paul Kelley and SaraJane Munshower represent Tapestry, a group dedicated to providing cultural awareness opportunities at Garden Spot Village. Story Shacks are just one of the many educational opportunities the team provides.
Society as they explored the experience of African Americans and indigenous peoples on the nearby Welsh Mountain. A storytelling bus tour engaged so much interest that repeat tours were scheduled.
Tours and presentations in May 2024 explored the Latino experience in Lancaster County. People from local Spanish churches were involved. This year, for the first time, the group invited the greater New Holland community to participate.
WEAVING A FUTURE
In 2024, the group adopted the name Tapestry.
Chet says, “We chose Tapestry because we felt it reflected what we were trying to achieve. We want to create a space where we can recognize how our stories, our differences and our lives weave together, like a tapestry.”
To celebrate, the group scheduled a series of Tapestry Talks. These presentations included people from the Garden Spot Village community— board members, residents, team members—who brought unique perspectives and strands to make the tapestry stronger.
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PEOPLE OF THE COMMUNITY
STAFF SPOTLIGHT
SUZANNE CARPER
DRIVING CONNECTIONS, DELIVERING HAPPINESS
Climbing into the driver’s seat of the blue Frederick Living Express— FredEx for short—Suzanne Carper is full of energy and ready to go on the day’s deliveries and requested transportation pickups. The rear compartment of the electricity-driven jitney is loaded with packages destined for residents’ homes. A voice comes over the walkie-talkie announcing a resident’s request to be picked up and driven to the main building for lunch. The FredEx quietly hums to life and Suzanne is on her way.
Suzanne, who has been a member of the transportation services team at Frederick Living for six years, knows the campus well. Point to any home and she most likely knows who lives there. And she probably knows who gets regular deliveries of Chewy dog treats or Keurig K-Cups. Visiting resident homes and apartments regularly has allowed her to really get to know many of the people on campus, which is a favorite part of her job. “I love the residents,” she says. “I love the community life here. I love that they are retired and can just enjoy their lives here.”
excellent service to the residents. I want to make it easy for them.”
Sometimes it is the little extra things that Suzanne enjoys doing the most. When a visitor to the community dropped off two dozen bouquets of snapdragons to share with residents, Suzanne delivered one to a particular resident who had recently undergone surgery. “It was a simple way to bring him some cheer.”
Above: Suzanne Carper delivers packages doorto-door with FredEx, the Frederick Living Express.
Several years ago, Suzanne was working part-time as a nurse aide in home healthcare and filling in hours as a driver at Frederick Living. She liked the driving position better, so when the opportunity for a part-time slot became available, she eagerly accepted it. She enjoys seeing the residents regularly, chatting with them during their rides to the Bistro for dinner and especially taking them to doctor appointments off campus. Whenever a new resident moves into Frederick Living, Suzanne quickly learns their habits and preferences. Where might they like a package left? Who might benefit from a little chat along with the package delivery? “I see it as a way to provide
Suzanne also loves listening to the residents’ stories and histories. “I find people interesting,” she says. “I especially love older adults because they have so many experiences and so much wisdom to share with the rest of us. They have more wisdom because they have been there before us, and we can learn so much from them.”
As Suzanne drives throughout the community, both residents and team members wave and shout hello, reflecting the sense of community and connection that Suzanne so appreciates at Frederick Living.
PEOPLE OF THE COMMUNITY
A LASTING LEGACY
ART THAT REFLECTS A LIFE
Viola (Vi) and Richard (Dick) Weber moved to Garden Spot Village in March 1999. The couple moved from their home in Akron, where they were deeply involved in their local community. Vi worked as a fashion coordinator at Doneckers in Ephrata for 25 years. Dick was a district sales manager for Concordia Publishing House as well as Thomas Nelson. They quickly connected to their community at Garden Spot Village and made many lasting memories with their new friends and neighbors.
“I’ve enjoyed watching the community change and grow over the years,” Vi says.
Officer, to consider her options.
Wendy presented several opportunities to Vi.
“When Vi was considering what she might like to do in the Legacy Garden, she reflected that she always loved gardening, and spent a good bit of time thoughtfully re-designing the garden space around her cottage. She loves thinking outside the box and being creative,” Wendy says.
Vi ultimately chose to purchase a sculpture. Because the sculpture was going to be in a yet-to-be-developed part of the Legacy Garden, Vi determined that she wanted to do something very different—a departure from what previous donors had presented.
When a Dale Rogers sculpture entitled “Love Birds” was presented, Vi says, “I became attached to the art quickly. I liked the presentation of the heart and the cardinals. When it arrived, I discovered the dragonflies stamped into the heart.”
The significance of the cardinals, who typically mate for life, impacted Vi because she and Dick had been married for 63 years.
The sculpture will be part of a gathering place that will include a fire pit and benches near the outdoor pavilion. “I hope that others will enjoy the sculpture,” Vi says. “I hope it will be meaningful to them and enjoyed for years to come.”
Above: Vi Weber poses with the sculpture she donated to Garden Spot Village in the spring of 2024 in honor of her husband, Dick Weber.
One of Vi’s favorite places on campus has been the Legacy Garden. She has enjoyed taking long walks there. Through the years she has watched the original plantings mature and grow, and she has admired the sculptures, benches and trees that others have donated in honor of their loved ones.
When Dick passed away in late 2016, Vi began to consider honoring Dick’s memory with a similar donation. On her many long walks she considered what she might like to offer as a legacy to the community where they made so many memories together.
After several years she approached Wendy Nagle, Chief Mission Advancement
NOTE: Residents and family members can dedicate trees, benches and sculptures in the Legacy Garden as lasting memories of loved ones. Donations benefit the Garden Spot Village Benevolent Fund. The Benevolent Fund is for residents who, for reasons beyond their control, can no longer pay for their daily expenses, so they can continue to call Garden Spot Village home.
PEOPLE OF THE COMMUNITY
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
FRANK & SANDY MORGAN
PURSUING NEW IDEAS AND MAKING THEM HAPPEN
Frank and Sandy Morgan have always led an active and creative lifestyle, so when they moved to Frederick Living nearly three years ago, they went straight to work volunteering within the community.
The Morgans volunteer in a variety of capacities, including serving on various Resident Association committees, giving tours to prospective residents and producing full-scale entertainment shows. When it comes to getting involved in community life, “You can do a little or a lot, whatever you want,” says Sandy.
with team members is amazing. We especially love it when the college kids come back to work during the summer. They remember your name and it really makes you feel at home.”
Opposite: Frank & Sandy Morgan share their enthusiasm for life at Frederick Living with prospective residents through tours and Lunch & Learn.
Sandy was always interested in caring for others, which led her to a career as a registered nurse. During the span of her career, she worked as a director of nursing in long-term care and as a personal care administrator. Life has even come full circle for Sandy, who worked part-time at Frederick Living as a night nurse in the 1970s, when she was raising her children. Her background enables her to communicate confidently to prospective residents that Frederick Living is an excellent choice when selecting a retirement community to call home.
When giving a tour or sharing a meal during a Lunch & Learn event, Frank and Sandy always make sure that prospective residents know about Frederick Living’s welcoming environment. “Everyone is so friendly,” says Sandy, “and the interaction
Frank is a very busy volunteer throughout the community and is especially skilled at drawing others into his creative ideas. In addition to serving on various resident association special project committees, Frank has also produced several shows for the community: a Frederick version of The Tonight Show, two separate runs of Café 2849, and the latest venture, Frederick Feud, a game show that featured friendly competition between residents and team members in a battle of wits. While adding to the richness of community life, each event has also raised money for the Benevolent Care Fund.
As a young man in the Army, Frank played drums in his post’s show band, so entertainment and management are in his blood. Additionally, his career in marketing and production management serves him well as he produces each show from concept to execution—lining up performers, procuring music and sets, and making sure the technical aspects of each show are well run.
Sandy helps him with whatever is needed. Shortly after a show is finished, another idea begins to percolate. “We’re always working on another show idea,” says Frank. He loves the support they receive from the team at Frederick Living. “You can have an idea for a new program, go to a team member and they will work to get you whatever you need. It is such an open community, where you are free to pursue ideas and make them happen,” he says.
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PEOPLE OF THE COMMUNITY
SANDY ABNETT WORDS OF WISDOM
SANDY ABNETT, A GARDEN SPOT VILLAGE RESIDENT SINCE JANUARY 2021, PARTICIPATED IN THE 2023 WISDOM COURSE. SHE SHARES THE WISDOM SHE DISCOVERED WHILE REFLECTING ON HER LIFE STORY AND SHARING IT WITH ELIZABETHTOWN COLLEGE STUDENTS ANNA AND KENNY.
1
2
REFRAMING YOUR PAST CHANGES YOUR PERSPECTIVE. For years I believed I was missing out on family dynamics. Walking through the Wisdom Course and reflecting on how my family shaped my life helped me realize that while I didn’t have siblings, I was blessed with an abundance of cousins, aunts and uncles and loving grandparents who lived nearby.
CONVERSATIONS CAN CHANGE THE COURSE OF A FAMILY.
When I was 4, my younger sister died at age 3. My sister was born with developmental and many health issues. One of my earliest memories is her passing. My mother and father never talked about it. As I began to explore this part of my family history, my older cousins shared memories that helped me learn more about that time in my life and my sister’s life.
3
EMBRACE SECOND CHANCES.
My husband and I divorced after 10 years. I now realize I never learned how to navigate conflict in a healthy way. My daughter-in-law was influential in bringing reconciliation to our relationship. Today my ex-husband and I are friends and communicate via emails and enjoy watching our granddaughters compete in their volleyball tournaments.
4 ASK FOR FORGIVENESS. After she heard my life story, Anna challenged me to ask for forgiveness. I did and now I am at peace with myself.
5 ASK FOR HELP.
As a divorced parent I felt I had to do everything myself. Finally, via the Wisdom Course, I recognize that I can’t do it all, and I need to ask for help. When I begin to worry, I take my concerns in prayer to my heavenly Father.
6 INTERGENERATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS ARE SO IMPORTANT.
The college students listened to my story and provided their perspective, understanding and feedback. I learned it is very beneficial to have different generations in my life and to listen to what they have to say.
To learn more about the Wisdom Course, check out the Purpose in Retirement Podcast at: gardenspotcommunities.org/podcast
Live well with tailored care
FREDERICK LIVING offers a range of healthcare services designed to meet your unique needs. Whether you need assistance with daily activities, memory care, or skilled nursing, our dedicated team is here to provide the highest level of care.
• ASPEN VILLAGE MEMORY CARE
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A CELEBRATION OF FOOD
FEATURING SWEET AND SAVORY DISHES WITH APPLES
THE TABLE
Apple Vanilla Tart
A hint of vanilla enhances this delicious fall treat. Recipe by Jessica Chadwick, Frederick Living, on page 46
Seared Halibut with Apple-Lemon Brown Butter
Flaky halibut drenched in lemon and brown butter apples celebrates the flavors of the season.
Recipe by Jessica Chadwick, Frederick Living, on page 47
THE TABLE
Schnitz & Knepp
Apples, ham and dumplings offer warm comfort.
Recipe by Chef Michael Pezzillo, Garden Spot Village, on page 47
Pork Tenderloin with Apple Chutney
Roasted tenderloin with savory apple chutney melds autumn flavors.
Recipe by Chef Michael Pezzillo, Garden Spot Village, on page 48
THE TABLE
Apple Fritters
the season.
Homemade apple fritters blend the scents and flavors of
Recipe by Chef Michael Pezzillo, Garden Spot Village, on page 49
RESTAURANT REVIEW
THE INN AT ST. PETER’S VILLAGE
WITH FAY STRICKLER
Nestled along a twolane road, just off of Pennsylvania Route 23 in Knauertown, St. Peter’s Village offers a step back in time. The Inn at St. Peter’s Village was built in 1881 by the town’s founder, Davis Knauer, who recognized that the unique wooded location on the banks of French Creek offered the potential for a delightful weekend respite.
THE TABLE
The Inn at St. Peter’s Village continues to offer a respite—a place to stop and relax, to gather with friends and enjoy a delicious meal.
Two large, covered decks overlook the rocky French Creek, a popular place for locals to hike and explore. The decks offer a delightful space to relax and unwind for lunch. The sound of running water, the abundance of songbirds, and mature trees providing a shade canopy create a unique ambiance.
On a recent Friday afternoon, a friend and I settled in for a two-hour lunch. It had been a while since we had connected, and we were looking for a good spot to catch up while enjoying a delicious meal.
We were delighted with what we discovered at The Inn at St. Peter’s Village. The restaurant was easy to find, and convenient parking was located just across the street. We arrived about 2pm, just after the lunch rush and well before Happy Hour. Our waitress, Jennifer, had worked
at the establishment for years and was more than happy to share information about the history of the inn, explain the menu, and offer suggestions about her favorite dishes.
We were seated on the deck. The sunshine, calming breeze and view of the ancient granite rocks that filled the French Creek was incredible. The wooded location felt secluded and was distraction-free—as if we had traveled several hours to the mountains, but instead it was just a short drive.
While we were there for a late lunch, the menu was appropriate for any time of day. The menu included a mix of sandwiches including burgers and paninis as well as entrees, salads and pasta. A robust wine list was also available. Every item was made to order and specific ingredients were listed, which meant we could be confident about our selections.
We started by sharing an
order of stuffed mushrooms as an appetizer. They were extra-large and stuffed with crab meat. They were absolutely delicious! For the main course, my friend ordered a Cobb Salad. She was offered three dressings out of six choices to accompany her salad, which was fresh and plentiful. The grilled chicken and avocado were just right.
I chose the Lobster Pasta Cheese Bake, which was heavenly. The combination of cold-water lobster, Wisconsin cheddar cheese and cavatappi was baked to perfection. Did I mention it was heavenly?
For dessert, we shared a generous serving of Dark Side of the Moon. The rich fudge cake was soaked with coffee liqueur and filled with chocolate mousse. It was topped with a layer of chocolate ganache. It was excellent.
We finished our dessert and conversation just as the band was setting up to play for the evening. We walked through the main dining area and admired the comfortable features of the historic inn.
I look forward to returning with
friends to the Inn at St. Peter’s Village. It’s a new favorite—a place to relax, unwind, and enjoy good food, excellent service and dear friends.
Fay Strickler, Garden Spot Village resident, has a master’s degree in Agriculture and Extension Education from Penn State. She also has extensive experience training restaurant staff on food safety and has served as a food judge at Pennsylvania fairs.
Explore more of Fay’s Restaurant Reviews: gsc.gl/restaurants
RECIPES
EMBRACING THE HARVEST
The abundance of orchards in Lancaster, Montgomery, and surrounding counties makes pick-your-own and farm-fresh, locally-grown apples easy to source in late summer and early fall.
Executive Chef
Michael Pezzillo from Garden Spot Village and Assistant General Manager of Dining Services Jessica Chadwick at Frederick Living offer their favorite appleinspired fall recipes here.
APPLE VANILLA TART
Yields 8 servings TART DOUGH
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed, at room temperature
¼ cup sugar
1 large egg yolk
1 cup flour
1/8 teaspoon salt
FILLING
4 medium apples, about 1½ pounds
2 large eggs
½ cup granulated sugar, plus 2 tablespoons granulated or raw cane sugar, for finishing
¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pinch salt
1 cup heavy cream (or halfand-half)
2½ tablespoons apple brandy
1. Mix the butter and sugar together in a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment on low-to-medium speed, until combined, about 1 minute. (Do not whip.) Add the egg yolk and mix on low speed for 30 seconds. Mix in the flour and salt on low speed until the dough comes together. If necessary, add a sprinkle of water if the dough feels too dry. Don’t overmix.
2. Shape the dough into a disk and place it in the center of a 9-inch removable bottom tart pan. Use the heel of your hand and fingers to press the dough across the bottom and up the sides of the pan, getting it as even as possible. Refrigerate or freeze the dough until ready to use.
3. Preheat oven to 350 F.
4. Peel, core and slice apples into eighths. Place slices in circles in the unbaked tart shell.
5. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, ½ cup sugar, vanilla extract and salt. Whisk in the heavy cream and apple brandy, until the mixture is smooth.
6. Pour the filling mixture over the apples in the tart dough. Sprinkle the top with 2 tablespoons of sugar and bake the tart until deep golden brown on top, about 45 to 50 minutes. (The tart should not leak but if you are concerned it will, bake it on a parchment or foil-lined baking sheet.)
7. Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack.
SEARED HALIBUT WITH APPLE-LEMON BROWN BUTTER
Yields 4 servings FISH
4 halibut filets (6 ounces each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt to season FOR THE SAUCE
4 tablespoons butter, unsalted
1 cup apples, finely diced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon parsley, chopped
1. Generously season both sides of the halibut filets with salt.
2. Heat a medium sauté pan over high heat and allow to heat for at least 30 seconds.
3. Add olive oil to the pan and warm for 10-15 seconds.
4. Carefully add the halibut to the hot oil and sear on high for 1 minute.
5. After 1 minute, turn down the heat to medium and allow the fish to gently cook for another 2 minutes.
6. Using a spatula, carefully flip each filet and continue cooking over medium heat for another 2 minutes.
7. Remove the fish from the pan and let rest on a paper towel-lined plate to soak up excess oil.
8. Drain the oil from the pan and return it to the heat.
9. Add the butter and allow to melt and begin to brown (approx. 1 min).
10. Add the apples and allow to sauté for 1 more minute.
11. Add the lemon juice and chopped parsley and stir; turn heat off.
12. Plate the fish on a dinner plate and spoon the sauce over top!
SCHNITZ & KNEPP
Yields 6-8 servings
2 cups apples, sliced and cored (schnitz)
2 lbs. ham (knepp)
1 onion, sliced
¼ cup brown sugar
½ teaspoon cinnamon
2 cups flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 egg, lightly beaten
3 tablespoons butter, melted
½ cup milk
½ cup apple butter
1. Toss apples in sugar and slow roast at 300 F for 15 minutes; the apples will begin to dry and caramelize.
2. The next day, simmer the ham, covered, for one hour. Add the onions and apple slices. Simmer, covered, one more hour.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the dumpling dough. Mix the flour, baking powder, salt and pepper in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, mix the egg, melted butter, milk and apple butter. Mix this into the flour mixture. Stir until blended (don’t overwork the dough). Let dough rest for 30 minutes.
4. Remove ham, onions and apples from pot and place them on a plate or in a bowl. Remove ham bones and discard. Add brown sugar and cinnamon to the cooking liquid.
5. Drop spoonful-sized bits of dough into the simmering liquid in the pot. The dumplings are ready when they expand and soak up the broth. Add the apples and ham back into the pot and serve.
PORK TENDERLOIN WITH APPLE CHUTNEY
Yields 4 servings
1 pork tenderloin
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
APPLE CHUTNEY
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup onion, minced
2 cups apples, chopped
½ cup dried cranberries
1 tablespoon ginger
½ cup cider vinegar
3 tablespoons maple syrup
TO PREPARE PORK
1. Brush the pork loin with olive oil. Whisk together the pepper, garlic powder, salt, brown sugar, onion powder and paprika in a small bowl and sprinkle generously all over the pork tenderloin. Save any remaining spice rub for another recipe.
2. Place the seasoned pork loin on a baking sheet and let it sit for at least 20 minutes at room temperature as you preheat your oven.
3. Preheat the oven to 475 F.
4. Place pork in oven and roast for 15 minutes.
5. Lower heat to 350 F and continue roasting the pork for 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork loin roast is about 145 F. Allow 10 minutes of rest time before slicing.
TO PREPARE APPLE CHUTNEY
1. Heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the minced onion and cook for about one minute to soften.
2. Add the apples, cranberries and ginger to the saucepan. Season with salt and cook for about two minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the vinegar and maple syrup and lower heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 30 minutes, or until the apples have cooked down and the chutney is thick and flavorful.
4. Adjust seasoning with salt, if necessary. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
APPLE FRITTERS
Yields 10 servings
1½ cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1½ teaspoons cinnamon
1/3 cup milk
2 eggs
3 tablespoons applesauce
2 large Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples, peeled, cored and diced
canola oil or vegetable oil for frying
GLAZE
2 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt and cinnamon in medium bowl.
2. Make a well in the center and add 1/3 cup milk, eggs and applesauce. Stir just to combine. Fold in apples.
3. Heat 1½ inches of oil in heavy skillet, dutch oven or deep fryer to 375 degrees. Drop about ¼ cup of batter per fritter into hot oil, spreading it out as you drop. Cook each side until golden brown, approximately 2 minutes per side.
4. Use a slotted spoon to move to paper towels to drain.
5. Whisk together ¼ cup milk, powdered sugar and vanilla. Dunk each fritter in the glaze, turning over to make sure both sides are coated. Place on wire racks to air dry and drip.
6. Store fritters wrapped loosely in paper towels in a brown paper bag.
TAKING
ON THE MOVE
LOOKING FORWARD STEVE & CHERYL AUCOTT INFLUENCED BY COMMUNITY
ON THE MOVE
Steve and Cheryl Aucott first visited Garden Spot Village in 2012 when Cheryl’s aunt, Sharon Amey, moved to the community.
“We immediately noticed a strong sense of fellowship. No matter where you are on the campus, people are joyful and engaged in life. At first we thought it was a coincidence, but as we’ve watched Sharon and her husband Gary over the past ten years, we realized it’s not a coincidence! Gary and Sharon are both still working and serving,” says Cheryl.
“We want to age in a way that we can be involved in missions and serving. We want to live vibrantly,” she adds.
AN ACTIVE LIFESTYLE
Steve and Cheryl love to bike the Rails to Trails in Lancaster County. They plan monthly rides for their Adult Bible Fellowship group at Calvary Church in Lancaster, which challenges them to find new sections of trails to explore. In addition, Steve loves to swim and looks forward to regularly using the pool at Garden Spot Village. He previously participated in a U.S. Masters swimming program and competed in the National Senior Games. “I would love to find a team and swim again,” he says.
Cheryl volunteers with The Haven in Lancaster, teaching English as a second language to Afghan refugees. A former financial analyst and 4th grade teacher, Cheryl uses her gifts and career experiences in this volunteer opportunity.
Steve retired as a financial analyst from IBM several years ago. As an encore career, he served as the Fiscal Vendor Management Divison Chief for the Pennsylvania Department of Aging. “I took care of people like me,” Steve says. “I handled the grants and interfaced with financial officers in 52 Pennsylvania
Access to green spaces and the beautiful gardens at Garden Spot is very important to
Above and Opposite: Steve & Cheryl Aucott thrive when they spend time outdoors.
Cheryl.
counties,” he explains. He recently retired for the second time.
A PASSION FOR GARDENING
“One of the things that attracted us to Garden Spot Village was the gardens,” Cheryl says. “I have a strong interest in gardening. It’s trial and error—half of it trial, half of it error,” she says with a laugh.
The couple enjoys gardening at their home as well as visiting Longwood Gardens. “We pick up a lot of ideas there for what we can do with our own shade, sun and vegetable gardens,” Steve explains.
“The gardens at Garden Spot encourage you to linger and explore. The artistry of the gardens’ design adds to the community’s richness and diversity. It helps to keep your mind fresh, creative and engaged,” Cheryl says.
A VISION FOR THE FUTURE
Steve and Cheryl joined the Radar Screen in fall 2023, choosing a cottage as their home of choice. “We are happy to have a four to six year transition. It gives us time to go through our possessions as we prepare to move from a 3,600 square foot home,” Cheryl says.
“We chose a cottage because we want to be right in the middle of the action, but still have the privacy a cottage offers,” Steve adds.
As they explore their involvement at Garden Spot Village, they look forward to participating in Travel with Purpose trips, engaging in intellectual opportunities and spending time in the gardens.
“The most important part for us is the sense of community at Garden Spot. We look forward to being part of the vibrant community,” Cheryl says.
ON THE MOVE
ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR MOVING
YOUR GUIDE TO AN EFFORTLESS MOVE
Moving into a new home is an exhilarating experience, filled with the promise of new beginnings. Whether you’re moving to a new city or just around the corner, your new home provides an opportunity to create a living space that truly reflects your personality and needs. To ensure a smooth transition and make the most of this exciting chapter, listed below are essential moving tips for a fresh start in your new home.
• PLAN AHEAD. A successful move begins with careful planning. Create a moving checklist to organize tasks such as packing, hiring a senior move manager such as Sterling Senior Life Solutions, notifying utility companies and updating your address. Starting early and staying organized will reduce stress and ensure you don’t forget any important details during the move.
• DECLUTTER BEFORE YOU MOVE. Moving presents a perfect opportunity to declutter your life and, in the process, offset some of the costs associated with the move. Before packing, go through your belongings and decide what to keep, sell, donate or discard. A clutter-free home not only feels more spacious but also simplifies the moving process. Selling unwanted items can provide you with extra funds to cover moving expenses or invest in new furniture and decor for your new home.
• SET A BUDGET. Moving can be expensive, so it’s essential to establish a budget. Factor in costs such as hiring movers, purchasing packing supplies, and any home improvement projects you plan to undertake. Having a clear budget will help you make informed decisions and prevent overspending.
• CREATE A FLOOR PLAN. Before moving in, create a floor plan for your new home. Doing this will help you visualize where your furniture and belongings will go and make the unpacking process smoother. It’s an excellent opportunity to consider any new furniture or decor you might need.
• GET TO KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD. Take the time to explore Garden Spot Village or Frederick Living. Visit local shops, restaurants and parks. Introduce yourself to your neighbors. Building a sense of community can make your new place feel like home when you arrive.
• PERSONALIZE YOUR SPACE. One of the most exciting aspects of moving into a new home is the opportunity to personalize it. Add your unique touch by decorating with colors, artwork and furniture that reflect your style and personality. A personal touch can instantly make a house feel like home.
• TRACK YOUR MAIL. For about a year prior to your move, keep track of mail you receive from different companies and organizations. Keep a running list so you don’t miss an important address change when you move.
• EMBRACE THE JOURNEY. Moving into a new home is a significant life event, so remember to enjoy the journey. It’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and apprehension, but with careful planning and a positive mindset, you can turn your new house into a warm and welcoming home.
By planning ahead, decluttering, budgeting, and personalizing your space, you can create a comfortable and inviting environment that truly feels like home. Embrace this exciting chapter in your life with optimism and enthusiasm and your new home will become the backdrop for countless memorable moments and cherished experiences.
This article was adapted from a blog post by Sterling Life Solutions, a Senior Move Manager based in Wyomissing, Pennsylvania. To learn more about the services they offer, visit sterlinglifesolutions.com
YOUR DOWNSIZING SOLUTION
LOOKING FOR PEACE OF MIND AS YOU NAVIGATE THE NEXT SEASON
OF LIFE?
We help you sell your home and the possessions in it, so you can focus on living the fullest life possible.
Our DOWNSIZING SERVICES include decluttering, organizing, and staging your home for sale, with options to pack and unpack, and providing tailored oor plan solutions. As part of our TRANSITION SERVICES, we o er guidance on selling, donating, or recycling items you no longer need. We also provide physical, virtual, and digital shredding services to keep your information safe, and connect you with moving partners to handle the heavy li ing.
When it comes to HOME SELLING, we o er traditional real estate listings or auction options, and even a home purchase option if needed. We can provide nancing to bridge the gap during the selling process and enhance your home’s appeal with professional deep-cleaning and light landscaping services, including mowing, trimming, and weed control.
LARRY HESS
Realtor, ABR, e Hess Group
Keller Williams Elite
ON THE MOVE REAL ESTATE UPDATE
10 STEPS TO CONSIDER WHEN MOVING TO A RETIREMENT COMMUNITY
Carol Lehman, a local Realtor with Hostetter Realty in New Holland, regularly helps people move from their home of 50 or 60 years to a retirement community. As a certified Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES), she has the training and expertise to make your move to Garden Spot Village or Frederick Living as smooth as possible.
Carol says, “This past year I assisted clients who had lived in their home for 64 years. It was the only house they had ever owned and this move was a huge change in their lives. They had collected many personal items and had a lot of questions about what they would take to their new home. They were nervous and excited at the same time. They called me several months before they expected to move and we sat down and discussed the important steps.”
These are the steps Carol encourages everyone to consider:
• YES. NO. MAYBE. Walk through your home and label each personal item with Yes (I’m definitely taking), No (I’m definitely not taking) or Maybe. Invite family members and friends to help evaluate your items and to see if anyone would be interested in the items marked No or Maybe.
• BEGIN TO LIQUIDATE. Ask your Realtor for a list of recommended companies who can pick up the No items and help you sell them at auction or online.
• SERVICE MECHANICALS. Find a local professional to service all of your mechanicals. Document their findings and updates so you can share them with your Realtor when it’s time to sell.
• TALK WITH A REALTOR. A Realtor can help you determine small updates for large returns—for example, touching up paint, removing wallpaper, etc.
• CONSIDER A PRE-INSPECTION. Your Realtor may suggest you complete a pre-inspection, which may help prospective buyers waive the home inspection at the point of contract.
• KEEP UP EXTERIOR MAINTENANCE. Curb appeal is huge; keep the landscaping and exterior of your home (including your driveway) tidy and show-ready.
• CONSIDER IF YOU NEED FINANCING. To complete the move, will you need the proceeds of the sale of your home? If so, consider how a home equity line of credit could make the transition smoother. Your financial planner can help you weigh the costs and benefits.
• DOCUMENT. Start collecting records from improvements that were made on your property throughout the years you’ve lived there, such as when the roof was installed or the heating system upgraded. Any records you have are valuable when it’s time to fill out the Pennsylvania Seller’s Property Disclosure Statement.
• CLEAN OUT. It’s easy to collect a lot of items in your garage, basement and attic. Start moving stuff out as quickly as you can. When it comes time to move, you will be glad for your proactive work.
• FIND A PROFESSIONAL AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. Meeting early provides peace of mind and helps you create a road map for success. Even if your move is three or four years out, contact a professional to talk through the steps that are most appropriate for you.
Real Estate Update: Inventory in the Lancaster County real estate market continues to be low, which makes it a great seller’s market. More than ever, presentation is important. Recent studies show that buyers are willing to pay top dollar when a home is presented with current styles and colors and in nice condition.
Learn more: hostetterrealty.com
filled with opportunityand purpose
Discover a community
Explore the abundant opportunities you have to live with purpose in community at Garden Spot Village.
WAYS TO LEARN MORE:
• Attend a Look & Learn: gsvlookandlearn.org
• Complete The Road to Garden Spot Village online at: gsc.gl/road-to-garden-spot-village
• Watch videos on our YouTube channel
• Like our Facebook page
• Follow us on Instagram
Scan To B k!
GARDEN SPOT COMMUNITIES PRESENTS
BRIDGING GENERATIONS
EXPLORE THE POWER OF INTERGENERATIONAL CONNECTIONS AND DISCOVER HOW GARDEN SPOT COMMUNITIES IS FOSTERING FRIENDSHIPS AND CREATING LASTING LEGACIES ACROSS ALL AGES.
THE SPARK STARTS WITH US p. 62 CREATING A LEGACY p. 67
CROSS-GENERATIONAL FRIENDSHIPS p. 71
THE SPARK STARTS WITH US
s Par K ing a P ro - aging re V olution
"YOU ARE NEVER TOO OLD TO SET ANOTHER GOAL OR TO DREAM A NEW DREAM." — LES BROWN
Steve Lindsey, Garden Spot Communities CEO, believes that if we harvest our wisdom and share it with others we can spark a pro-aging revolution where aging results in an inspired and impactful season of life.
“SPARKING A PRO-AGING REVOLUTION HAPPENS ONE LIFE AT A TIME WHEN PEOPLE BEGIN TO SHIFT FROM JUST BEING AN OLDER PERSON TO BEING A TRUE ELDER AS THEY HARVEST THE WISDOM OF THEIR LIVES AND THEN USE THAT TO IMPACT THE LIVES OF THOSE AROUND THEM.”
– STEVE LINDSEY, GARDEN SPOT COMMUNITIES CEO
In March 2023, Garden Spot Communities unveiled an Envisioned Future to Spark a ProAging Revolution. This was a pivotal moment when Garden Spot put words to an audacious goal the seeds of which had been planted decades prior.
At the heart of the pro-aging revolution is a societal return to a place where all generations live, work and serve together: a place where older adults are no longer marginalized but recognized for the wisdom and life experience they can share with the people around them.
Garden Spot Communities CEO Steve Lindsey frequently references a white paper
recently released by the Stanford Center on Longevity. He states, “The study says that at the beginning of the 20th century (early 1900s) the United States was one of the most age-integrated cultures in the world. By the end of the 20th century, we were the most age-segregated. Everything we do is segregated by age. As a result, we have lost so much as a society. You can see proof of it as our society starts to fray a little bit. We have lost the wisdom that comes with age and life experience. We need to bring some of that wisdom back. I believe Garden Spot Communities can do that—we can be that spark and one of those voices demonstrating how good
life can look at any age.”
Revolutions often require an uprising or a violent overthrow of societal norms. Steve believes this revolution will be fundamentally different.
He says, “Sometimes we think about a revolution and ageism and we begin to think this is all about our rights. Over the years, we've seen different movements in which people are demanding their rights. A pro-aging revolution is fundamentally different.”
“Instead of people slamming their fists on the table and demanding rights because they have reached a certain age, the revolution is about people saying, I have something to give. Allow me to give the wisdom I have accumulated in my life and share it with others for the betterment of society. That should be a message that all of us can embrace,” Steve continues.
Garden Spot Communities will spark a proaging revolution in a variety of ways. A recent initiative that is gaining traction in multiple communities is the Wisdom Course. The Wisdom Course challenges participants to harvest the wisdom they have accumulated through their life experiences and share that wisdom with first-semester college students. The inaugural class began in May 2022 at Garden Spot Village and partnered participants with Elizabethtown College students. A second class started in
May 2024 at Frederick Living and connected participants with Ursinus College students. Inquiries about the course have come from Indiana and Maine. Garden Spot looks forward to fostering those inquiries and replicating the class in new places.
Another emerging initiative includes middle school-aged students receiving dementia training and embracing opportunities to volunteer at Meadow View, Garden Spot Village’s memory care neighborhood.
In addition, initiatives such as pen pals, Grands & Kids Camp, Living History in the Classroom and others have for years been setting the stage for a pro-aging revolution.
If the pro-aging revolution is successful, Steve believes, “We will reach a place where we are once again an age-integrated culture, where we see the blessings and where we have revived the role of the elder. I’m not saying that just by reaching a certain age, you have earned the respect of everybody, but for those who are willing to do the work to truly be an elder ... to be that voice in the community and bring wisdom, life experience and guidance to future generations ... the opportunity for impact is significant.”
Listen to Episode 31 of Purpose in Retirement to hear more from Steve Lindsey about Garden Spot’s vision to “Spark a Pro-Aging Revolution.”
Residents
Bob and Rosey Hess enjoy time with their grandchildren; Garden Spot Village Resident Connie Williams interacts with her granddaughter; Garden Spot Village Future Residents
Dave & Tina Park enjoy time with their grandchildren in the Legacy Garden; Garden Spot Village Resident Katie Kauffman connects with her sponsored child in Kenya.
Left to right: Steve Lindsey applies face paint during an intergenerational event; Sycamore Springs
DON'T MISS EPISODE #31: A VISION FOR PRO-AGING
Join STEVE LINDSEY, CEO of Garden Spot Communities, and hosts Scott Miller & Juanita Fox, in Episode #31 as they explore the Envisioned Future for Garden Spot Communities: Spark a Pro-Aging Revolution. In 2024 Scott and Juanita talk with authors, writers and social media influencers who are using their voices to raise awareness of ageism in our culture and our world.
LISTEN NOW AT: gardenspotcommunities.org/podcast or catch us on your preferred podcast platform
Raquel Versoza, Garden Spot
Village Future Resident
CREATING A LEGACY
INTERGENERATIONAL CONNECTIONS MAKE A HUGE IMPACT ON BOTH CHILDREN AND ADULTS . ACCORDING TO THE LEGACY PROJECT, BASED IN TORONTO, “RESEARCH SHOWS CHILDREN NEED FOUR TO SIX INVOLVED, CARING ADULTS IN THEIR LIVES TO FULLY DEVELOP EMOTIONALLY AND SOCIALLY. THE PROBLEM TODAY IS THAT CHILDREN OFTEN GET TOO MUCH PEER SOCIALIZATION, TOO MUCH MEDIATED CONTACT THROUGH COMPUTERS AND TEXTING, AND NOT ENOUGH ONE-ON-ONE, PERSONAL TIME WITH MATURE ADULTS.”
At the other end of the spectrum, older adults—grandparents, great grandparents, great uncles and aunts—benefit from investing in the children in their lives. Studies from Harvard, Washington University and Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine show that adults who invest in the lives of children— whether through volunteering as mentors or tutors or simply spending time with the children they know—have greater physical and mental well-being.
In an essay based on his book How to Live Forever: The Enduring Power of Connecting the Generations, Marc Freedman writes, “In his book Aging Well, [Harvard psychiatrist George] Vaillant illuminates the importance not only of bonds
with partners and peers but of ties spanning the generations. ‘In all three Study cohorts,’ he wrote, ‘masters of Generativity tripled the chances that the decade of the 70s would be for these men and women a time of joy and not of despair.’ Generativity means investing in, caring for, and developing the next generation; older adults who did so were three times as likely to be happy as those who did not.”
Urie Bronfenbrenner, a Russianborn American psychologist who studied human development, famously said, “Every child needs at least one adult who is irrationally crazy about him or her.” For the past 25 years, Garden Spot Communities has been facilitating opportunities for adults to build relationships with children and
in turn be that “one adult who is irrationally crazy” about a child.
Opportunities like the Wisdom Course, Grands & Kids Camp and the Grandparents in Residence program with Kenbrook Bible Camp make a difference to everyone involved.
Each of these initiatives challenges stereotypes that the generations believe about each other and builds lasting memories.
Open the fold to take a journey with us and explore some of the ways Garden Spot Village, Frederick Living and Maple Farm residents make an impact in the lives of children in our communities.
Original illustrations created by Haley Delgiacco.
Read more: legacyproject.org greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/what_happens_when_old_and_young_connect
INTERGENERATIONAL INTERACTIONS
FOSTER EMPATHY, UNDERSTANDING AND A SENSE OF COMMUNITY, ENRICHING LIVES ON BOTH ENDS OF THE AGE SPECTRUM.
CROSS-GENERATIONAL FRIENDSHIPS
FRIENDSHIP IS A BUILDING BLOCK FOR COMMUNITY AT GARDEN SPOT COMMUNITIES.
Team members and residents are encouraged to share life experiences, build relationships and be present for each other. Events such as the Summer Fair at Garden Spot Village create opportunities for team members and their children, as well as residents and their families to enjoy time together. On Travel with Purpose trips, team members, residents and family members serve internationally, forging incredibly strong connections. During weekend retreats residents and team members explore their faith and deepen spiritual ties. The friendships formed at Garden Spot Communities are too numerous to count. The following examples represent relationships at Garden Spot Village, Maple Farm and Frederick Living.
BARB CARTER, KARYN NANCARVIS & TRACI LEED
Wanna skydive? Their common need for adrenaline rushes compelled Garden Spot Village Resident Barb Carter, Garden Spot Village Chaplain Karyn Nancarvis and Garden Spot Village Dining Supervisor Traci Leed to drive to Maytown Sport Parachute Club in early June 2024. Barb, a resident since February 2022, and Karyn connected shortly after Barb moved to Garden Spot Village through organized small group activities. Barb and Traci had built a friendship through daily interactions at Garden Spot’s fast-casual dining venue, The Harvest Table. Jumping out of a plane together? That made the adrenaline junkies friends for life.
TIANA MAHR & BETH STEEN
Tiana Mahr, director of nursing for Personal Care at Frederick Living, and Resident Beth Steen have the type of relationship that embodies relational care. An impromptu visit, a pleasant chat and the knowledge that someone will always check in create a sense of family. The ladies connect with each other to share encouragement, and Tiana enjoys the opportunity to soak in wisdom from Beth’s life lessons learned. Whether talking about Beth’s progress in studying the ukulele or pausing to unwind for a few moments during Tiana’s busy days, both ladies are mutually blessed by their friendship.
EMILY WILSON & GLORIA WOLF
Emily Wilson started working at Maple Farm as a certified nursing assistant shortly after graduating from high school. Since then she has built relationships with the people who live at Maple Farm. They celebrated with her when she graduated with her LPN degree. They celebrated when she married. As time passed, they celebrated as she welcomed her children. Over the years Emily has developed a special bond with Gloria Wolf. The ladies regularly spend time walking the Maple Farm grounds together. Gloria shares childhood memories and Emily shares stories about her girls. Their memory-sharing makes them friends.
The Road to Garden Spot Village
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT WHAT IT MEANS TO LIVE IN A CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY?
The Road to Garden Spot Village is a 9-week online course that will explain the difference between fee-for-service and life-care communities, talk through the process and value of downsizing as well as the community and culture at Garden Spot Village.
Sign up online at GARDEN
3784 Horseshoe Pike (Rt 322) Honey Brook, PA 19344
Mon-Fri: 8 AM - 6 PM Sat: 8:30 AM - 12 PM Sun: Closed
610.273.2887 HONEYBROOKAH.COM info@honeybrookah.com
YOUR PETS DESERVE THE BEST
As a devoted pet owner, you desire the highest quality of care for your beloved companions.
At Honey Brook Animal Hospital, we are committed to providing just that. Our experienced staff is trained in the care of companion animals including cats, dogs, reptiles and amphibians, rodents, ferrets, and other small mammals. We offer complete medical and surgical services, but prefer to stress preventive care. Your questions are always welcome, and we invite you to stop in, meet us, and take a short tour of our hospital.
COMING IN 2025!
WE INVITE YOU TO EXPLORE TRELLISWORKS , A GARDEN SPOT COMMUNITIES FOUNDATION.
Planting seeds of creativity to redefine aging.
OUR LOGO EXPLAINED:
Led by the wisdom only age can bring, TrellisWorks is a connected framework of creativity where your ideas will take root and flourish.
e mark included with the name TrellisWorks includes interwoven T’s, re ecting the lattice of a trellis. e mark also represents the intersections of many di erent people’s journeys in life coming together to create a strong and generous community. We invite you to join us by exploring our website or by connecting with Wendy Nagle!
trellisworksfoundation.org | 717.355.6215 | 433 S Kinzer Avenue, New Holland
NEARBY& BEYOND EXPLORING OUR COMMUNITY AND OUR WORLD
ON THE ROAD
LOU & JO ANN BROOKS
JOURNEYING WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS
NEARBY & BEYOND
Travel for Lou and Jo Ann Brooks always includes two things—family and friends. So, this past summer, Lou and Jo Ann locked up their cottage at Frederick Living and headed out on a 15-day trip filled with new adventures and time to connect with lifelong friends. From Cape Cod, Massachusetts, to the scenic coast near Rockport, Maine, to the mountains of Keene, New Hampshire, the Brookses made the most of every moment.
Their trip began in Cape Cod with granddaughter Nina and her boyfriend, Bill. A trip on the Cape Cod Central Railroad took them past cranberry bogs, marshes and the vertical-lift railroad bridge that connects Cape Cod to the mainland.
Next, a flight over Martha’s Vineyard and the Cape Cod coastline was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, especially for Jo Ann. Bill, a retired airline pilot, and Nina had started a helicopter touring service a few years before and had been trying to get Jo Ann to take a ride, but she was very anxious. On this trip, Jo Ann finally said yes. Reflecting on the experience, she said, “At my age, I figured, what the heck! When I first saw the helicopter, I thought it looked awfully small. But it was fun.”
A shopping trip to Tumbleweed Quilt Shop was a must on this trip because Nina had requested that her grandmother make a new quilt to coordinate with Nina’s recently renovated bedroom. Jo Ann, a prolific quilter, has sewn dozens of quilts for family members over the years, utilizing the spacious second floor room in their cottage in the Meadows. Jo Ann left the shop loaded with new fabrics and a project to tackle.
Heading north, Lou and Jo Ann entered the world of lighthouses and lobsters. Here they visited with their daughter and son-in-law who manage the American Lighthouse Foundation and the Owls Head Lighthouse near Rockland, Maine. In between munching on lobster rolls and shrimp, they also visited the statue of Andre the Seal, a very special harbor “attraction,” and the Marshall Point Lighthouse—both of which have been featured in movies, the lighthouse being the terminus of Forrest Gump’s cross-country adventure.
Rounding out their trip, the Brookses visited close friends from their college days, as they do every year, in the town of Keene, New Hampshire, where they had attended Keene College and lived in a married-student
apartment complex. There, they enjoyed meals with their former classmates and walked down Appian Way, the pedestrian walkway that had been a public street during their years on campus. They delighted in spending time with good friends from days gone by. From the university one can see Mt. Monadnock as it stretches into the sky at 3,165 feet. Mount Monadnock is said to be the second most frequently climbed mountain in the world, with Mount Fuji in Japan being the first. Lou believes this is because “so many college students and their families climb it every year.” Lou himself has climbed the mountain six to eight times.
RETURNING HOME
While traveling, Lou and Jo Ann were confident that everything back home was in order. A few days before heading out on the trip, Lou discovered a leaky pipe in their garage. He informed the maintenance team at Frederick Living and was confident that everything would be fixed before they returned home. “All the people here are really good,” he said. He also rested easy knowing that his neighbors would water all the plants in the garden behind their home and check the house regularly.
Lou and Jo Ann are thankful for the freedom that comes with community living so they can take advantage of new experiences and visit old friends.
invitations postcards calendars directories bulletins mailings envelopes brochures menus booklets and more! business cards newsletters yard signs posters labels books art prints letterhead design services
OGO VARIATIONS At Buehler Family Dental we believe that good oral health is a key component to your overall health. We strive to provide the highest quality of care necessary to achieve and much more.
Enjoy the variety of shopping venues at Garden Spot Village.
NEARBY & BEYOND
Linden offers the latest trends with distinctive apparel, jewelry and unique merchandise, as well as greeting cards, local foods, frozen treats and grocery essentials.
Discover handcrafted wood items, stained glass, pottery, paintings, quilts, jewelry and more—all made by talented artisans who live at Garden Spot Village.
Share & Care Thrift Shop offers an ever-evolving collection of lightlyused furniture, housewares, jewelry and home decor. For
ON THE CLOCK
PAUL KURTZ
DRIVING THE FUTURE
Aserial entrepreneur, Paul Kurtz, a Garden Spot Village resident since March 2018, has dabbled in a variety of industries throughout his career–from dairy farming to a household retail store to crop farming to hardware stores and owning a coach bus company. Along the way he made “common sense” business decisions and was blessed in seeing his businesses succeed.
In 1991, Paul and his wife, Marie, moved their family to Lancaster County when their daughter Deanna expressed interest in attending Lancaster Mennonite High School. They settled in New Holland and Paul began a side business buying and selling grain. They found a 97-acre farm nearby and Paul began crop farming the fields surrounding and including Garden Spot Village. He fondly remembers navigating
the piles of dirt as Garden Spot Village began to take shape.
In 1995, he sold his hardware stores and “retired.” Looking for something to do, he approached Elite Coach to see if he could get a job as a driver. He was hired and was quickly invited to become a part-owner.
“When I became part-owner of Elite Coach in 1997 I said, If I’m going to be in this industry, I want to have premiere equipment. We are going to build a real company. We're going to hire good people, smart people. We’re going to buy good equipment, and we’re going to be the best coach company in the eastern United States. That was my vision,” says Paul.
Over time, Paul bought out the other owners one by one and implemented his vision. He transformed the fleet from six older coaches to forty state-of-theart coaches.
As a result, Elite Coach provides tours and on-demand charter bus service to a wide range of customers, including tour companies, universities, the military, schools, professional sports teams and Garden Spot Village.
Since 2001, Garden Spot Village residents have enjoyed touring the midAtlantic region, visiting places like New York City, Cape May, Washington, D.C. and more with Elite.
Paul has been instrumental in shaping Elite Coach's success, infusing the business with a dedication to quality and cutting-edge technology. The team of professional drivers and mechanics ensures a seamless and enjoyable journey for every client.
“Our mechanics are proactive and do not hesitate to replace parts ahead of schedule if it means we can avoid a breakdown on the road,” Paul says. As a result, their breakdown percentage is well below the national average.
In addition to luxury, Elite Coach is committed to sustainability, investing in eco-friendly technologies and practices. This dual commitment to luxury and environmental responsibility sets Elite Coach apart.
Elite Coach is authorized to provide service in all 48 continental United States, Washington, D.C., and six Canadian Provinces.
“Wherever anyone wants to go, we’ll take them,” says Paul.
Nearly 30 years after Paul approached Elite for a part-time driving job, the company is thriving. Paul’s son Brian, who joined the Elite team in 1999, manages the day-to-day operations of the business. Brian became president in 2006 when he and Deanna joined Elite as partners. Paul enjoys driving occasionally and interacting with the other drivers, customers, and team members.
“People ask if I’m retired and I say, ‘I don’t know. I just enjoy the business,’” Paul says. “My employees, customers and vendors—there’s just a whole ministry there. When you interact with that many people and you’re a Christian, there are so many opportunities to serve. And that is what I’ve been able to do.”
From left to right: Nicholas T. Gard, Linda Kling, Nicole M. Gard, Michael D. Smoker
NOW INTRODUCING
Rediscover the charm of a classic casual steakhouse featuring local hand cut steaks, fresh seafood, and farm-fresh seasonal cuisine in a rustic setting.
HOURS: Sundays & Thursdays 4pm to 8pm, Fridays & Saturdays: 4pm to 9pm 9 Queen Road, Intercourse, PA 17534 | 717-455-0700 | inn-spa.com/olde-mill-restaurant
Discover the Joy of Community Living!
From top left clockwise Loren Bender, Michaeline Rogers, R. Fred Groff III & Randy Stoltzfus
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT
THE OLD COUNTRY STORE
TIMELESS CRAFTS, MODERN CONNECTIONS
In1833, Jacob Wenger built the first store in the fledgling village of Intercourse.
It was located along the King’s Highway, which stretched from Lancaster to Philadelphia. Moses Eaby took over the store a year later and his son Jason eventually joined him in his work. A fire destroyed the store in 1881; it was quickly rebuilt, this time with brick.
Over the next 100 years, various owners provided goods to their neighbors and to travelers who stopped in Intercourse. Located at the intersection of Old Philadelphia Pike and Newport Road, it was a natural stop for people traveling north and south or east and west.
The store was named The Old Country Store in 1978. It quickly became a popular stop for tourists because of the unique Amish/Mennonite-crafted goods offered. After a brief closure in 2013, Dean and Jan Mast and their partners purchased the building and reopened The Old Country Store in 2014. They offer quality goods to their community
and to tourists who delight in the sights and sounds of Lancaster County.
Shoppers can still find locally crafted handmade items—from exclusive woolwork to hand-cut scherenschnitte. Unique and practical kitchen gadgets, as well as preserved food items, handmade soaps and salves, offer useful souvenirs from Lancaster County.
In 2017, the store was recognized by Better Homes & Gardens’ Quilt Sampler Magazine as “One of the 10 Best Quilt Shops in the United States.” Jan works directly with local quilters, sourcing quality, handquilted family heirlooms.
“We curate the best handquilted pieces from Old Order Mennonite and Amish quilters. I personally know the quilters,”
Jan says. “This distinction makes the collection of quilts at The Old Country Store unique.”
Thousands of bolts of fabric and a wide variety of sewing notions fill the shop and entice quilters and other crafters to begin new projects. Prepackaged project kits in a variety of quilt patterns make starting a new project easy.
“We partner with the top fabric manufacturers. Our staff is very knowledgeable and is happy to help sewists with their selections and yardages,” Jan says. “We relate to sewists and quilters of all levels of ability—from people who are new to quilting or sewing to those who are putting the final touches on their 50th award-winning quilt. We want to celebrate our customers’ workmanship and be a key to their success.”
A bustling online business supports quilters and crafters nationwide with fabric and notions. The Old Country Store offers customized longarm quilting services as well. Quilters ship their quilt tops to the shop, where staff can add edge-to-edge longarm quilting, batting, backing and binding, before shipping it back at no cost.
The Old Country Store partners with Hinkletown Sewing Machine Shop in
Ephrata, Bernina’s largest dealer, to teach new Bernina owners machine embroidery, software and overall machine success.
The store supports local and regional quilters and sewists by offering beginner and advanced sewing, piecing and quilting classes. Sally Mittelstadt, a Garden Spot Village resident since January 2005, and Sally Rapp, a Garden Spot Village resident since August 2011, regularly teach classes at The Old Country Store.
The classes are held in the building next door to The Old Country Store. The classrooms, filled with sewing machines, design walls and workspaces make it ideal for learning. Kids classes offer inspirational learning opportunities for the next generation of sewists. The Old Country Store partners with Hinkletown Sewing Machine Shop to offer an annual Youth Sewing Contest. Young sewists can win a sewing machine or gift cards.
Interested in a space for a quilters retreat? The Loft, a quilter and crafter retreat space, offers accommodation for eight people, Bernina sewing machines, a large work area, sitting areas, and an eat-in kitchen. It is available for rent year-round.
The Old Country Store is located at 3510 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse, Pennsylvania, and is open Monday through Saturday, 9am to 5pm and Thursday, 9am to 9pm.
Note: The Garden Spot Village Quilters often partner with The Old Country Store for events like Airing of the Quilts or the Quilt Fest, which is set for September 28. Learn more about the Quilt Fest at gardenspotvillage.org/events
The Experience the Heart of Lancaster County
OldCountry Store
STEP INTO A WORLD OF TIMELESS TRADITION AND WARM HOSPITALITY AT THE OLD COUNTRY STORE.
Discover quality fabrics, fat-quarter bundles, kits and notions, designed to inspire new and experienced sewists and quilters. Or, explore our unique collection of locally crafted handmade items—from exclusive woolwork to hand-cut scherenschnitte to soaps and salves.
Kids Fun Run
For Kindergartners-8th graders | join the fun at Garden SPot Village
Friday, April
25,
2025, 6pm Start
Calling all energetic kids for the ultimate Kids Fun Run. Conquer our exhilarating one-mile loop on the Garden Spot Village campus! And here's the icing on the cake...or rather the whoopie pie on the run! Each participant gets a special race t-shirt, epic finisher's medal and a delicious whoopie pie.
Resistration: $20 per runner / Register before 4/7/25
LEARN MORE & REGISTER ONLINE AT:
