Willow - Fall 2013

Fall 2013

A WILLOW VALLEY COMMUNITIES PUBLICATION

Coffee with Neanie ––– Emma Stone’s Favorite Role: Granddaughter page 4

The Inside Story

“Growth is the only evidence of life.”

– John Henry Newman

Next year, Willow Valley will celebrate its 30th anniversary. As we approach this significant milestone, we have begun to reflect on where we’ve been and where we are going. We have always been a place made vibrant by the energy and enthusiasm of our residents and team members. To best express this vibrancy, we have made some changes to better reflect who we are and who we plan to be. In addition, we are expanding our services to share our unique approach to successful aging with more people.

You have probably already noticed some of these changes with this Fall issue of Willow you have in your hands. This new format has been designed to give us an updated look and be a pleasure to read.

We are also delighted to share a new name and logo for Willow Valley Retirement Communities. We believe that this new brand identity, with its vibrant color palette, more fully celebrates the vitality of our communities and the people who live in them. While Webster’s defines the word “retire” as “to withdraw, as for rest or seclusion; to give up working or serving, usually because of advancing age; to remove from circulation,” it’s clear that these definitions don’t apply to those who live at Willow Valley. That’s why we decided to drop the word, with all its negative connotations, from our name. “Willow Valley Retirement Communities” is now simply “Willow Valley Communities.” It’s a small change with a big meaning.

“Life Lived Forward” is the central theme of our new Willow Valley Communities brand. We believe this captures both the spirit of those who live in the communities and the innovative and forward-thinking approach of our organization. It also reflects our deep interest in creating communities and possibilities.

Though these changes reflect some new directions for Willow Valley, there is also much that has not changed. For nearly 30 years, Willow Valley has been committed to the people it serves, to its team members, and to creating exceptional, innovative environments and services. The values that have always guided us as an organization continue to guide us into the future. We are grateful to all those who are with us on this journey of Life Lived Forward.

Kind regards,

John G. Swanson President, Willow Valley Communities’ Management Company

Contents

Willow is a publication of Willow Valley Communities

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Grandkids’ camp, Providence Park grows, and seven make it to National Senior Games

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12 Perspective

State–of–the-art fitness, keeping off pounds, winning awards

Out & About PRiMA, an uncommon theater, MA(i)SON redefines “fresh,” and color comes alive at Christiane David’s gallery

Mind, Body, Spirit

10 The Willow Way

of Life

Lifecare—“…a plan you can count on.”

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Feed the Soul Chef Action Stations sizzle

Villas, townhomes, ponds and pools at Providence Park, and introducing The Clubhouse

4 From the Red Carpet to Willow Valley At Willow Valley, famed actress Emma Stone is just another beloved granddaughter.

By Janet Scouten

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Headlines

Townhomes Join the Villas at Providence Park The villas are almost complete, the newly restocked fishing pond is ready, and construction of 12 new townhomes at Providence Park is set to begin. These two-story homes offer first–floor master suites, two–and–a–half baths, granite countertops, double ovens, walk-in tile showers, and daylight basements. Two floor plans are being offered: the two– bedroom, 2,285–square–foot Lyon and the three–bedroom, 3,228–square foot Versailles. Best of all, every model backs right up to beautiful pond views (see page 10 for more updates about Providence Park).

Camp Willow Celebrates Five Years of Intergenerational Experiences Every grandparent wishes not just for more time, but more quality time with their grandchildren. This desire was the genesis of Camp Willow, which brings children aged 7–12 to the Willow Valley campus for a week of activities and overnights.

The kids’ days are filled with fishing, woodworking, photography, crafts, songwriting, swimming, games, and more. This year, they also enjoyed a juggler, carnival, movie night, presentation on whales, and a trip to GoggleWorks Center for the Arts. Resident grandparents can attend selected events, such as the “When You Were My Age” game, which compares contemporary toys, grocery prices, and other experiences to those of two generations ago.

And members of some of Willow Valley’s approximately 100 clubs used their expertise to create educational sessions.

For example, Camera Club members Norm and Phyllis Sanford developed a Light Painting activity for their three grandchildren and the rest of the campers.

This year, Jean Vieth’s grandchildren, 12-year-old Maddy and 10-year-old Evan, attended Camp Willow for the third time.

“It was wonderful for us,” she said. And speaking for grandparents everywhere, she added, “Of course, we spoil them a little bit while they’re here!”

Willow Valley Sends Seven to National Senior Games For some Willow Valley residents, fitness is fun; for others, it’s a passion.

For some hard–working individuals, it’s a chance to compete against seniors from around the country. After meeting challenging qualifying tests at the State Senior games, seven residents won the chance to compete at The 2013 National Senior Games in Cleveland, Ohio.

Willow Valley supported these athletes with uniforms, registration fees, travel, hotel expenses, and the help of Fitness Coordinators Pamela Schorr and Jennifer Buttriss, who joined the residents on the road. Returning home victorious, many of our athletes brought home ribbons in multiple events. Congratulations, Team Willow Valley!

Elaine Eichner Tennis Mixed Doubles, 65–69 age group.

Charlie Homentowski Tennis Mixed Doubles, 65–69 age group.

Norman Linhart Tennis & Badminton, 80–84 age group.

Robert Locke Swimming, Freestyle 50/100, 65–69 age group.

Charles Trumbo Swimming, Freestyle 50, Backstroke 50, Breaststroke 50, Track & Field—Long Jump, Triple Jump, High Jump, Shot Put, Hammer Throw, 80–84 age group.

Charles Wilson Track & Field—Long Jump, Triple Jump, High Jump, 85–89 age group.

Marianne Siecko Track & Field— Shot Put, Discus, Hammer Throw, Javelin, 65–69 age group.

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Out & About

art MA(i)SON

cuisine

While Lancaster is known for incredible local produce, MA(i)SON takes “fresh” to a whole new level by using raw ingredients grown on their own 4.5–acre farm. “Because we can grow obscure things ourselves, we have a very diverse offering of menu items,” notes proprietor and chef Taylor Mason. Not only is MA(i)SON currently cultivating 120 types of tomatoes and 6 varieties of peas, they also raise chickens, rabbits, and honey bees. Produce is prepared the same day it is picked. “The fresher produce is and the longer it is on the vine to ripen, the better it will taste,” notes Mason. MA(i)SON describes itself as “an intimate, farm-driven, urban cookery.” You’ll find it simply delicious.

Visit www.maisonlancaster.com or call 717.293.5060

PRiMA Theatre PRiMA, which bills itself as “Your Cure for the Common Cultural Experience,” aims to be “Central Pennsylvania’s most engaging performing arts organization.” Sponsored in part by Willow Valley Communities and many Willow Valley residents, PRiMA is an innovative not–for–profit theater company based in downtown Lancaster.

Christiane David Gallery

Born and raised in Belgium, Christiane began painting at the age of eight. After studying architecture, Christiane began her career as a designer, while continuing studies in oil and watercolor at the Academy of Art in Brussels.

She has been a member of the Pennsylvania Watercolor Society, the Philadelphia Watercolor Club, the Harrisburg Art Association, and the Art Students League of New York.

Christiane can almost always be found painting in her gallery on Lancaster’s Gallery Row. With a personality as vibrant as her work, she most loves sharing her passion for art with those who walk in her door.

Visit www.christianedavid.com or call 717.293.0809

PRiMA offers the unexpected, like Amish hip hop, cabarets and concerts, or a modern take on the classic holiday variety show. Upcoming shows include Elton John & Tim Rice’s AIDA as well as A PRiMA Christmas.

Visit www.primatheatre.com or call 717.327.5124

theater

Christiane David’s gallery on Prince Street features a dramatic array of watercolors, acrylics, and oils that articulate color, texture, and dimension. Her spontaneous style is grounded by a strong technical background and clear compositions, and she pushes color to capture the soul of her subject and create strong emotional effects on the viewer.

According to executive producer Mitch Nugent, “The residents of Willow Valley are smart people from across the country. They deserve top–notch culture, and we’re glad to provide engaging performances amidst all the other downtown energy.”

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FROM THE

RED CARPET TO

WILLOW VALLEY

By Janet Scouten

As Willow Valley residents and guests filled their plates with Southernstyle barbecue and took their seats at tables decorated with canning jars full of colorful zinnias and seasonal flowers, they looked to the stage, anticipating a unique guest. The folksy sounds of banjos, guitars, and mandolins quieted, and Willow Valley resident Jean Morgan stood to introduce a visitor very near and dear to her heart: her 23-year-old granddaughter, Emma Stone.

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“The public sees Emma walking the red carpet and presenting Oscar awards—but I know her as a loving and thoughtful granddaughter who is even more beautiful on the inside than she is on the outside.” – Jean Morgan

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In the close-knit community of Willow Valley, each visiting child and grandchild is cherished. Yet, as Jean spoke, it became clear that this particular guest was very special to a much larger audience and spent her days on a stage much larger than any at Willow Valley.

“At the age of 15, Emma convinced her family to allow her to move to Hollywood,” Jean said. “At 17, she landed her first role in a movie.”

Since then, Emma has gone on to star in 16 movies and host Saturday Night Live twice. Her image has graced the cover of countless magazines. She is the face of Revlon. She has been featured on Good Morning America, The Today Show, and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, among others.

“Many of you may remember her as Skeeter from the movie The Help, the critically acclaimed film about civil rights in 1960’s Jackson, Mississippi,” Jean said. “And while the public sees Emma walking the red carpet and presenting Oscar awards, I know her as a loving and thoughtful granddaughter who is even more beautiful on the inside than she is on the outside.”

Then Emma took the stage and spoke of her affection for Willow Valley and Lancaster County.

“This is such an incredible place to get away from the hustle and bustle of New York City—I love Lancaster so much!” she said, before rejoining her family’s table for dinner and graciously mingling with and charming the other guests.

Coffee with Neanie It’s clear that one of Emma Stone’s most cherished roles is being Jean Morgan’s granddaughter.

Over morning coffee in her grandparents’ well–appointed living room,

Emma and Jean with the Dining Services team at Willow Valley Communities

Emma spoke about the family gatherings she’s enjoyed at Willow Valley.

As three generations—grandmother, mother, and granddaughter—laughed, talked and shared memories, Emma recalled, “The first time I came here, I was just blown away. Everything is so nice. The size and the quality of everything are just outstanding. And what we can talk about together and what we share here is completely different than anything else I experience.”

New York play was The Fantasticks.

These days, Jean and Emma still enjoy the theater together, but with significantly less anonymity as flashbulbs tend to follow wherever Emma goes.

And sometimes, Jean gets to join Emma on the red carpet, like at the Hollywood premiere of The Amazing Spider-Man, in which Emma played the role of Peter Parker’s love. Emma reprises that role in “The Amazing Spider-Man 2” and has several other film projects underway.

Jean—whom Emma calls “Neanie”— added, “We don’t talk about her career “I’m just so proud of her,” said Jean. “I’m when we get together. We talk about all bursting with pride.” of the other things that matter so much Not surprisingly, Emma credits much more. Sometimes, we just pull out old of who she is today to the love and baby pictures and talk about when guidance she receives from her Neanie Emily Jean was little.”

Emma Stone spoke with great affection for the entire Lancaster area, an easy 3-hour drive from her home in New York City, and especially for the vibrant local art scene, music and restaurants.

Some of their favorite memories include the tea parties Jean used to throw for her grandchild.

“Whenever we’re talking about life, Neanie, I just learn so much from you,” Emma said.

“Oh, Neanie put on a good tea party,” said Emma.

“You do?” Jean asked.

This fun and vivacious grandmother would pull out all the stops, serving tea and goodies on her beautiful china.

The pair would dress up and lose themselves in imaginary play. In addition to creating their own fantastical worlds, Emma and her mother would also occasionally travel to New York with Neanie and take in Broadway plays like Les Miserables and Annie, two of Emma’s childhood favorites. Her first ever

Nodding emphatically, her eyes filled with love, Emma said, “Yes, I really do.”

In the warmth of her grandparents’ living room, nestled in the beautiful Lancaster countryside, Emma Stone, star of the silver screen, is clearly content to simply be Emily Jean, beloved grandchild to Willow Valley resident Jean Morgan.

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Mind, Body, Spirit

FITNESS AWARD-WINNING

GOES HIGH TECH

At age 85, Red Stein can boast of something many men half his age cannot.

“I’m five pounds over my midshipman’s weight,” said the former Navy captain.

Red thanks the Fitness Center at Willow Valley’s Cultural Center for helping him keep fit.

Expresso Bikes include a web-based, fully–interactive video screen. In addition to offering more than 40 virtual courses, this technological enhancement also allows you to set up virtual races with anyone, anywhere who uses the same equipment. If competition isn’t your style, you can pump up your motivation with a video game that lets you chase dragons.

The wellness opportunities at Willow Valley’s Cultural Center are receiving other accolades as well. Willow Valley “These bikes really improve the workout recently won the 2013 “Best 50+Fitness experience,” notes Pam Schorr, Lead & Wellness Program” award from the Fitness Coordinator. “New workout National Association of Home Builders. partners and the video enhancements The Fitness Center offers abundant exreduce boredom and keep exercise ercise and relaxation space, including an fresh and fun. That’s what keeps people aquatic center, cardio and weight traincoming back to the gym.” ing areas, an aerobic room, an indoor Another addition are Krank cycles. track, dance studio, day spa and more.

These machines focus on the upper And the impressive offerings just keep body, and are designed to improve aergetting better. The fitness center has obic capacity and strength. A powerful recently been enhanced with some cross-training tool for anyone, the bikes additions to the state-of-the-art are also great for those with limited leg equipment that has always defined mobility. “The bikes allow users to the Center. New Octane Riders

“I am only five pounds over my midshipman’s weight, and I have the fitness center to thank for that.”

– Red Stein

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break a sweat without pumping their legs,” explains Pam. Such inclusion appeals to Red, who lives in the Willow Gables townhomes at Willow Valley.

“You’ve got a professional group here, and they’re interested in their clients,” he says of the fitness team at the Center.

They also welcome input; Red, who boxed in his Navy days, asked that they consider installing a boxing bag at the Fitness Center. Shortly after that, the bag appeared.

Jean Kahler, 65, who resides in the Spring Run community, finds the center a natural health solution. With

the help of the Fitness Center, Jean has brought her cholesterol down and no longer needs medication. “I took off 10 pounds in four months,” she says. “I walk a lot. I run a little on the treadmill.

I utilize the weights, and I really like the new Octane machine.”

The fitness center also is designed to support the serious athlete. Bob Locke, 66, a Spring Run resident, uses weightlifting to assist with his swimming.

in swimming at the National Senior Games in Cleveland in July.

Bob has high praise for the Center that helped him get there. “You know how close it is. You can walk to it.

So there’s no excuse for not getting to your workout!”

With the recent renovation and additions of the innovative equipment, Willow Valley’s award-winning Fitness Center has something for everyone.

“I lift weights one day and swim another,” It’s designed for a range of personal he says. Free weights—the Center even fitness goals, whether those goals has kettle bells—leg extension exercises, involve chasing dragons or swimming and leg curls augment Bob’s workout. in medal competitions.

The results prepared Bob to participate

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WILLOW VALLEY KEEPS GROWING, BEAUTIFULLY Providence Park, the newest addition to the communities at Willow Valley, will soon be starting its second exciting growth spurt. With the stunning villas nearing completion and the first residents moving in, Willow Valley Communities is looking to complete another new chapter in its story.

Not far from the new, villa–style homes and just on the other side of the grand fishing pond, 12 new townhomes are planned. These two-story homes offer master suites on the first floor and the option of a two– or three–bedroom floor plan, along with two–and–a–half bathrooms and daylight basement that can be finished for extra retreat space, according to Kristin Hambleton, Director of Sales for Willow Valley Communities. Two spacious models will be available: the 2,285 square foot Lyon and the 3,228 square foot Versailles. The townhomes will also feature high– 10

Fall 2013

end amenities and finishes including granite countertops, double ovens, and bathrooms with walk-in tile showers.

Kristin points out another exceptional attribute common to all models: “Every home will have amazing views of the beautifully landscaped Providence Park pond.”

In addition, expansion plans also include a second, artfully landscaped pond ideal for model yacht racing, and an outdoor pavilion area for special events, dining, theater, lectures, and more. One of the most innovative additions to Willow Valley, adjacent to Providence Park, will be its 30,000 square foot Clubhouse. Unlike the typical golf-themed, dark–walled clubhouse, this one features vintage arcade games, bowling lanes, multi-purpose activity centers, and even “pickle ball” courts. The vision is to create a space that’s fun and exciting for people of

The Willow Way of Life

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FIRST FLOOR CLUBHOUSE

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all ages, with a special focus on recreational opportunities that residents can share with their families and grandchildren. It’s all part of what John Swanson, President of Willow Valley Communities, refers to as “ageless thinking.”

“We want to promote an active lifestyle, mostly recreational in nature,” John notes. “And anytime we can do things that encourage visits from friends and family, we will!”

The emphasis on intergenerational activities is clear in the choice of arcade games.

“We plan to include games that could very well foster conversations between grandparents and grandchildren as they explain Pac–Man and Ms. Pac–Man to the young people,” says John.

“There will also be games from the 1950’s and 1960’s, including that longtime

favorite, Skee-Ball. On the flip side, innovation and technology are represented in a golf simulator as well as a state–of–the– art, six–lane bowling alley.”

For those who love to pursue an active lifestyle in the fresh air, the Clubhouse amenities will also include an outdoor pool, scheduled to open in July of 2014, and tennis courts with top–of–the–line, Har–Tru® surfaces.

Though Willow Valley has an extensive fitness facility located in the Cultural Center on the Lakes Campus, there will also be a fully–equipped gym in the Clubhouse with the most advanced cardio and strength–training equipment.

Since all that activity tends to work up an appetite, the Clubhouse will also include three separate dining spaces, two of which can be used for private parties, and a bistro area with adjacent bar, a first at Willow Valley Communi-

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FITNESS

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BOWLING

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ARCADE

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CAFÉ

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GOLF SIMULATOR

ties. John points out that wine lovers will enjoy access to their own special wine lockers, while just about everyone will appreciate the 24–hour business center and wireless access throughout the Clubhouse.

This modern approach to “ageless thinking” will be apparent even in the architecture of the Clubhouse. Visitors will be greeted by a contemporary and classic lobby with a sweeping, semicircular staircase at its center. Warm wood accents and large picture windows complete the creation of an environment that’s more resort than retirement.

Of course, that’s just what you’d expect from Willow Valley, which has, for almost 30 years, led the way when it comes to innovation and healthy, engaging lifestyles.

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Perspective

A WISE INVESTMENT

A SURPRISING VALUE

Joe Nolt and his wife Marianne crunched the numbers, did the research, and now want to spread the word. “We’re happy campers, and we want to let others know why,” Joe says.

“We enjoy the beauty and creativity of the landscape,” Joe says. “People are warm and friendly, and Willow Valley takes care of things. They look to the future.”

Lifelong residents of Lancaster County, the Nolts had family and friends living at several area senior living communities, including Willow Valley. “We considered them all,” he notes.

Valerie and Ken Carter agree. They were already living in a 55+ community in Maryland when they discovered Willow Valley.

The Nolts chose Willow Valley for its wide variety of opportunities, but primarily for Lifecare, a contract that provides personal and nursing care, if needed, at no additional cost.

Joe, who spent his career in insurance, feels people may have a fundamental misconception about Willow Valley.

“People think they can’t afford to live in a place as beautiful as this. But the pricing compares well to other communities.

And you get great value, because the costs include a plan for the future you can count on,” he explains.

With nursing home costs rising everyday, Lifecare is a wise way to protect assets you may have spent a lifetime accruing. Long–term care insurance is expensive, and options are diminishing as many insurance companies discontinue these products. With Lifecare, costly premiums are a thing of the past.

“We had long-term care insurance,” notes Joe. “But the Lifecare program was more comprehensive. We were able to drop that plan when we moved to Willow Valley.”

Like many who are looking at senior living communities, at first, the Nolts considered themselves “not ready.” But when they saw what is now their new home, they “fell in love.”

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“We did a lot of financial research,” said Valerie. “We didn’t see anything that offered as much for the price.”

The Carters appreciate Willow Valley’s easy access to major cities, lower–than–expected cost, and opportunities to do what they love most.

“We’re passionate about travel, kayaking and cycling,” explains Valerie. “And we’ve expanded our horizons through the people we’ve met here.”

Valerie, like other Willow Valley residents, has some simple advice: “Don’t wait until you think you’re ready for a so-called ‘retirement’ community,” she says. “People here are interesting, active, and living life to the fullest.”

The Impact of Long–Term Care Costs More often than not, nursing home costs are not covered by Medicare or private insurance, other than long-term care insurance. Personal care is not eligible for Medicare in most states.

So, with bills in the Northeast typically approaching $6,000 per month for personal care and $14,000 per month for nursing care, even the most healthy nest eggs can be quickly depleted.

Feed the Soul

Chef Action Stations SIZZLE “Chef Action Station” sounds a bit like a superhero activity.

However, at Willow Valley, the heroes are simply our chefs, and the activity is preparing healthy and delicious cuisine right in front of your eyes. This open-air kitchen area is where chefs such as Kristin Holloway craft everything from salmon to stir fry, and is just one of eight dining venues, along with two specialty cafés, available throughout Willow Valley’s four residential communities. Each venue has its own chef, but they are all united by an emphasis on starting with fresh ingredients sourced from Lancaster County’s many nearby farms.

For example, at Willow Valley’s Lakes community, chefs utilize a spectacular stone hearth oven. As expected, this open flame oven is often used to create delicious pizzas, but it also adds a delicious roasted flavor to fish, casseroles, meats, and vegetables, notes Sharon Habanec, Corporate Director of Dining Services. The Lakes campus also offers al fresco dining on the patio two times a week during the warmer seasons. Instead of prepping food in the kitchen and bringing it outdoors, chefs create their masterpiece meals right on the spot utilizing the outdoor patio grill station, and offering a bit of theater along with dinner.

For a more formal feel, many residents choose Spring Run’s grand Four Seasons restaurant. Decorated in the style of an elegant, four-star hotel, this is where the Chef Action Station is the main attraction. Watching the chefs bustle about, chopping, slicing, sautéing, and more, not to mention catching the aroma of their culinary creations, is sure to inspire you to enjoy your favorite dishes and also to try something totally new.

Salmon with Sweet Chili Sauce RECIPE FROM

Kristin Holloway, Chef at Four Seasons, Spring Run INGREDIENTS

6 (5 ounce) salmon filets, skinned ¼ cup water ¼ cup rice vinegar ¼ cup sugar ½ teaspoon fresh ginger root, minced ¼ teaspoon fresh garlic, minced ½ teaspoon hot chili pepper, minced ½ teaspoon ketchup ½ teaspoon cornstarch DIRECTIONS

Bring water and vinegar to a boil. Add sugar, ginger root, garlic, chili pepper, and ketchup.

Reduce heat to a simmer for approximately five minutes.

Preheat grill for medium heat. Lightly oil cooking surface.

Place salmon on preheated grill and cook for 6–8 minutes per side, or until fish flakes easily with a fork.

Brush salmon with sweet chili sauce.

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Life Lived Forward

600 Willow Valley Square Lancaster, PA 17602

The Willow Valley Way For more than 30 years, Willow Valley has been devoted to helping seniors pursue exceptional lives. Our mission, vision, and passion are simple: To enrich your life by engaging your mind, body, and spirit. We are dedicated to innovative programming, operational excellence, and prudent finances, as well as providing the security of

Lifecare, which offers the guarantee of rehabilitative and long-term care at no extra cost. And we’ve been recognized for our efforts. The National Association of Home Builders Best of 50+ Housing Awards recently recognized Willow Valley for Best Lifestyle, Best Dining, and Best Fitness and Wellness Program.

Willow Valley Communities has

Phone 800.770.5445 www.WillowValleyCommunities.org Find us on facebook

consistently received “A” category ratings from both Standard & Poor’s and Fitch, affirming our proven financial stability.

Our most important recognition, though, comes from the people who live here.

Willow Valley Communities.

Life Lived Forward.