Fall 2019
A WILLOW VALLEY COMMUNITIES PUBLICATION
Live Your Life Forward Residents of Willow Valley Communities know how! page 8
Living Life Forward, Today and Tomorrow
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eflecting back on the summer that has now yielded to fall, I am struck with how we’ve experienced yet another season of memorable moments fueled by a way of living that we call Life Lived Forward. This philosophy was evidenced in many instances here at Willow Valley Communities in recent months. The outdoor pool at The Clubhouse was in full swing with family members of multiple generations taking in all the magic that shared time together brings. The VUE, our rooftop lounge at The Vistas, was another space where families and friends gathered to enjoy views of summer sunsets, food, fun, and live music. Willow Valley Communities welcomed former NFL football great, Ron Jaworski, for an inspirational talk and meet and greet. Residents danced well into the night to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Woodstock with several 60’s tribute bands. In August, our annual Lobster Fest at Chautauqua Hall, always a festive event, was enjoyed by hundreds of residents. You’ll see in this issue of Willow how our Willow Valley Communities Culinary Services Team coordinates this event— along with so much more—every day. Our award-winning Camp Willow, now in its 10th year, welcomed 75 of our residents’ grandchildren for a week-long visit in June. It’s always rewarding to observe these children engaging in activities with their grandparents and other residents from the many clubs at Willow Valley Communities. Later in this issue, we’ll take a look back at how it got started and what it has evolved to today. As we look ahead, autumn is a favorite time of year, with Willow Valley Communities’ campuses glowing in the colors that only this season can bring. Changing leaves and the beautiful mums planted by our capable Landscaping Teams provide a pop of color at every turn. Autumn, seen by some as a new beginning, is the time when our annual Health Expo hosts hundreds of residents and guests to learn about the latest research in health and wellness.
Fall 2019
Soon, the holiday season will fast approach. Twenty-five decorated Christmas trees will adorn our campuses, along with tens of thousands of twinkling lights to usher in the season, all arranged by team members and residents working together in the true spirit of the season. The annual Holiday Bazaar, held in our Cultural Center, is the perfect start to the holiday shopping season. Showcasing hundreds of crafts and the talents that our residents bring, it offers truly unique gift buying opportunities. And along with the change of seasons, the many events, activities, and celebrations, our 35-year history of innovation and growth continues at Willow Valley Communities. A significant renovation at The Glen is nearing completion. Plus, excitement continues to build with the very recent ground breaking at our newest addition to the community, SouthPointe at Lakes, where 88 new villa homes and up to 120 deluxe apartments will be constructed, with first move-ins occurring next summer. As always, with our focus on the future and paving new paths, we have looked to downtown Lancaster, three miles from Willow Valley Communities, for our newest project just announced in June, an urban expansion in Lancaster City. I invite you to visit Willow Valley Communities—in any season—to witness our traditions, our celebrations, and our special way of living. Come and learn about our exciting plans for the future as an innovative leader in senior living and learn what Life Lived Forward is all about. Kind regards,
John G. Swanson Chief Executive Officer Willow Valley Living
Contents
Willow is a publication of Willow Valley Communities
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2 Live Your Life
Forward
Meet some Willow Valley Communities’ residents and see how they Live Their Life Forward!
12 Culinary Services at
Willow Valley Communities: One Team, One Mission “Wowing” residents every day, at every meal.
18 Camp Willow:
Excellent. Innovative. Fun! An interview with Camp Willow’s manager, Jen Rynier.
20 Athletes Put
“Life Lived Forward” into Action at the National Senior Games What it truly means to train and compete at the National Senior Games.
22 Fernando Garcia-Aguila:
One Meal Can Change Everything for a Child
28 Let’s Get Social!
Connect With Us on Social Media How you can connect with Willow Valley Communities online.
29 New at Willow Valley
Communities SouthPointe at Lakes
We’re excited to announce plans for our newest community!
Chef Fernando shares his passion for culinary arts with the Power Packs Project.
26 Community Outreach
“There is no greater gift than giving back.” Helping children in need throughout Lancaster.
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w i l low va l l e y com mu n i t i e s
LIVE YOUR LIFE Forward
At Willow Valley Communities, residents live their lives the way they want, however active or social they choose to be. Willow Valley Communities offers opportunities to pursue new passions—or delve more deeply into existing ones. Often, these opportunities come to life in our amenity-rich spaces. Our 80,000 squarefoot Cultural Center, which includes a spectacular 500-seat performing arts theatre, art gallery, Day Spa, Vitality Café, and aquatics and fitness centers, is an inviting central gathering place for residents. The 30,000 square-foot Clubhouse, with outdoor swimming pool and tennis courts, golf simulator, bowling alley, vintage arcade, and a full-service gourmet restaurant, offers even more opportunities for enjoying every day. Hundreds of classes, clubs, lectures, presentations, and shows take place in our community. At Willow Valley Communities, residents have the pleasure of selecting from over 90 different, thoughtfully designed floor plans, as well as special features and options to create the perfect home for their lifestyle. What’s more, it’s all located on 210 acres of stunning, meticulously landscaped campuses just three miles from the vibrant city of Lancaster. Our residents hail from 37 states across the country, representing a rich variety of backgrounds, interests, and passions. But they all have one thing in common: They are all Living Life Forward at Willow Valley Communities. Enjoy getting to know a few of them on the following pages.
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John and Trish Evenwel
Rocking
Life Forward J
ohn and Trish Evenwel came to Willow Valley Communities in 2010 from Connecticut. However, they did not move in completely until 2014. During the four years between, they slowly moved in and used their beautiful one-bedroom apartment as a sort of hotel room as they explored Lancaster and elsewhere. Trish is a retired art and science teacher and John is a retired respiratory therapist and instructor at Yale New Haven Hospital. They have found that once they retired, they had much more time to pursue their number one passion: seeing the Rolling Stones. “We were just too busy with our home and careers before that,” they agreed. So far, John and Trish have seen 39 Rolling Stones concerts worldwide. They are both quick to add that if they include the number of times they have traveled to see concerts performed by the Rolling Stones’ backup musicians, the number is closer to 100. They also enjoy traveling to Boston to see art shows put on by Rolling Stones’ lead guitarist, Ronnie Wood, and visiting rhythm guitarist Keith Richards’ restaurant in Connecticut. Now that the Evenwels are living at Willow Valley Communities full time, they say their passion for Rolling Stones concerts is even easier to pursue. The geographic location of Lancaster makes it easy for them to travel to see concerts in Philadelphia, New York, and Boston, whether they drive or take the train. Their one-bedroom residence at North Garden Apartments is filled with Rolling Stones memories of their many rock and roll adventures. The Evenwels say they can lock their front door and know their home will be secure while they are traveling. The 4
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maintenance-free living style of Willow Valley Communities means they don’t have to worry about home repairs or any home emergencies. What’s more, the many close friends the Evenwels have at Willow Valley Communities are happy to take care of their Classic Maine Coon cat, Kapi, when they are away. That close network of friends, also rock and roll fans, often go out together locally to dine, enjoy live music, and dance. “Willow Valley Communities is close to where the action is!” said John. The Evenwels also note that the Lifecare contract they have as residents of Willow Valley Communities gives them peace of mind knowing their future is secure. Any supportive care they may need is already budgeted. Lifecare promises that monthly service fees will not increase because of a need for an increased level of care later in life. John chuckled, “I can now just plan to spend my money on concerts!” The couple does not have children and Trish explained, “Even if we did have children, we would want to be kind to them and not burden them with caring for us.” The Evenwels love their carefree rock and roll life at Willow Valley Communities. They say they plan to continue to follow the Rolling Stones—as long as the Rolling Stones keep touring. With Lifecare and the maintenance-free lifestyle at Willow Valley Communities, John says, “My biggest worry now is just getting that front row ticket.” WillowValleyCommunities.org
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Lynnette Olson
Dogging
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hen Lynnette Olson embarked on a cruise trip to Belgium and the Netherlands from her home in Duluth, Minnesota in 2015, she never dreamed that would be the start of a Life Lived Forward at Willow Valley Communities in Lancaster, PA for her—and her two dogs. While on the cruise, Lynnette happened to meet about 40 Willow Valley Communities’ residents and team members. She spent some time getting to know the group and learning about Willow Valley Communities. “Everyone was so friendly and nice,” she recalled. “I had been considering a move to a senior living community, so I decided to come out to visit.” Lynnette, who is widowed, was living in a 1,100 square-foot home with a guest cottage in Duluth with her two dogs, Tony, a 11-year-old Papillon, and Lily, a 10-year-old Japanese Chin. One day while carrying laundry downstairs, Tony ran into her and she tripped down the stairs. She wasn’t hurt, but the experience got her thinking. “I don’t have children, I don’t talk to my friends every day, and if anything happens to me I don’t have any immediate family who would care for me.” Lynnette was intrigued by Lifecare at Willow Valley Communities (Lifecare promises that if there is ever a need for an increased level of supportive care, residents’ monthly fees are not increased because of the increased care.) Lynnette said she didn’t want to wait until she was
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desperate, and she wanted to move sooner in order to be able to take advantage of all the opportunities Willow Valley Communities offers. “I want to be in control of my own life. I want to make my own decisions,” she states. In 2016 Lynnette selected a 625 square-foot apartment at Willow Valley Communities. This meant that Lynnette—along with Tony and Lily—needed to “rightsize” their belongings and their lifestyle. Lynnette adopted the mindset of “Swedish Death Cleaning.” Swedish Death Cleaning is not about actual cleaning; rather, it is about a permanent removal of items and clutter. It is a form of organization that makes everyday life run more smoothly
Life Forward
because of less clutter. Lynnette has always believed that you “grow into” your home, filling it up with belongings, as she had done. Lynnette questioned why this happens. “Why do you need so much room to parade around in? That has never made any sense to me.” Lynnette took charge, got rid of belongings she no longer needed, and made her move to Willow Valley Communities. Tony and Lily also had to change their mindset, but this was not difficult even though they were used to a large yard with lots of room. Pets are welcome at Willow Valley Communities—with two large dog parks (one on each campus), picturesque pathways, conveniently located
waste receptacles, and homemade doggie treats for sale at the Marketplace Coffee Shop. Now, Tony and Lily enjoy their daily walks to the dog park to meet friends. Lynnette has also enjoyed being welcomed by the community of pet parents at Willow Valley Communities who are always up for a play date or available to help with pet sitting, when needed. “There’s a difference between accepting pets and really wanting them here,” says Lynnette. “And Willow Valley Communities really works at including them.” “I couldn’t be happier,” says Lynnette. “This is my life— my life with my dogs—and I love it.”
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John and Debbie Mischo
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ohn and Debbie Mischo have lived in Broomall, PA, for 34 years. Debbie is currently a high school math and business teacher and John is an electrician. They started exploring senior living communities about eight years ago, motivated by the experience of seeing their parents’ assets lost to the high cost of fee-for-service care later in their lives. They started their research by attending an open house called Explore Retirement Living (ERL). The ERL is a cooperative open house among Lancaster County’s 18 senior living communities; it takes place on a single day each autumn. It’s the perfect weekend to compare all of the communities in Lancaster County. During their visit, the Mischos fell in love with Lancaster and knew it was where they wanted to retire. But when they learned that Willow Valley Communities is the only exclusively Type A contract Lifecare community in Lancaster County, John says, “That was the cherry on the top. That clinched it for us.” Lifecare means that Willow Valley Communities’ residents’ monthly service fee will not increase if there is ever an increased level of supportive care needed. “Whatever assets you have you can spend,” says John when talking about the predictable costs associated with Lifecare. “You don’t have to worry about spending money to take a vacation. You know how much money you need for the future.” John added, “That whole cloud is taken away.” They recently purchased an apartment in Willow Valley Communities’ Manor community and are currently enjoying it as a hotel room of sorts for weekend getaways
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Training Life Forward
Lancaster is John and Debbie Mischo’s weekend getaway. Some of the things they enjoy are live performances at the Fulton Theatre, shopping at local boutiques, and exploring Central Market. to Lancaster until Debbie retires in a few years. With every trip they discover something new to love about the area. “Lancaster is our weekend getaway. It’s like our shore home or our home in the Poconos,” Debbie explains. “It’s our escape.” The Mischos take the Amtrak train from Paoli, PA, and in only 45 minutes they are in Lancaster. One of their favorite ways to spend a Saturday is to walk to downtown Lancaster from the train station, have lunch, and then attend a live performance at the Fulton Theatre, where the Mischos recently became season ticket holders. They are also enthusiastic fans of baseball—all baseball, and have discovered Lancaster’s Clipper Baseball Stadium located near the train station. They enjoy watching the Lancaster Barnstormers play, but also know that once they become permanent residents of Willow Valley Communities, it will be an easy trip for them to see their beloved Philadelphia Phillies. They’ve also enjoyed day trips to Lititz, Hershey, and Reading exploring those inviting towns. With each weekend trip, the Mischos discover something new... Lancaster’s museums, colleges, restaurants, theaters,
boutiques, and churches. “It’s an easy city to navigate,” they agree. “There is something for everyone.” The Mischos were also pleased to learn that Lancaster is close to Harrisburg International Airport, so air travel to more further destinations is convenient. The Mischos are looking forward to their permanent move to Willow Valley Communities. Debbie says she plans on doing all the things she wants to do that, now, she does not have time for while she is still working outside the home. “I want to join a bowling league. I want to learn to paint. I want to learn how to play bridge,” she lists. But, meanwhile, they are enjoying their weekend getaways to Willow Valley Communities and experiencing the richness that today’s Lancaster has to offer. “Lancaster is easy to navigate and it’s not just farmland or outlets as many people believe,” says Debbie. “It’s a legitimate city with so much to see and do. There’s everything you need here, including Wawa!”
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Brian Giersch
Sailing Life Forward
John Henderson, Ron Dillon, Brian Giersch, Davis Giersch
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hen Brian Giersch moved to Willow Valley Communities with his wife, Dorothy, he had no intention of giving up his passion for sailing. He has a long history of it—both cruising and racing. “I just can’t get it out of my system,” he says. “I absolutely love it.” Brian is a retired teacher and principal from Maryland public schools. He retired in 2001 after 37 years of service and moved to North Carolina with Dorothy. The couple moved to Willow Valley Communities in August of 2018. Soon after moving into their beautiful apartment at the North community, Brian purchased a 19' Flying Scot sailboat to race on the nearby Susquehanna River. As Brian and Dorothy settled into their lives at Willow Valley Communities, they were pleased to meet other residents who also shared Brian’s love of sailing. The next step for Brian was to organize a “crew” that was willing to sail regularly with him. Two residents, Ron Dillon (Spring Run) and John Henderson (Gables) excitedly came on board. One more resident enthusiastically joined Brian, and perhaps
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he was the most meaningful... Brian’s brother, Davis, a resident of Gables, had moved to Willow Valley Communities 18 months prior. The two brothers had been separated by hundreds of miles for more than 50 years. With Davis joining Brian’s crew, the two now have the special opportunity to reunite and reconnect every week. The four are now racing Repreez, a 19' Flying Scot, in the Wednesday Night Series at the Susquehanna Yacht Club in Wrightsville, about 30 minutes from Willow Valley Communities. Brian’s boats have always had musical names: Overture, the beginning; Encore, the end; and now, Repreez, a take off on reprise—play it again, one more time. At the yacht club, the group is known as “The Willow Valley Guys.” Win or lose out on the race course, the guys from Willow Valley Communities have a wonderful time simply enjoying sailing, being out, and bonding as new friends. As their wives have also gotten to know each other, the four couples enjoy socializing with each other on and off the water. Brian couldn’t be happier. He’s still on the water, and he’s still enjoying his lifelong passion in retirement. He has a new group of friends who share his love of sailing. But he’s especially grateful for that renewed, “reprised” connection with his brother.
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CULINARY SERVICES at WILLOW VALLEY COMMUNITIES
One Team, One Mission
“Wow at every meal, every day.”
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hen Sharon Habanec, Vice President of Culinary Services at Willow Valley Communities, talks about her team, she beams with pride. Sharon started at Willow Valley Communities in 1986 as a parttime hostess at the Lakes. “My family had just moved to Lancaster shortly after my daughter was born and I was looking for an opportunity to interact with adults,” Sharon explains. That part-time position turned into a full-time passion for Sharon. “The opportunities were there for me year after year, and Willow Valley Communities appreciated and cultivated my talents. I love the atmosphere here and I love our residents,” she added. Surprisingly, Sharon says she is not a foodie. “Of course I love food, but I leave the recipe building and cooking up to the experts on our culinary team. My true passion is team development. Identifying and nurturing the skills and abilities on the team has allowed us to develop a robust culinary program and a top-notch service team,” Sharon said. With a department of 500 team members, Sharon has the ability to allow them to go as far as they want. Eight chefs and three sous chefs oversee the kitchens and manage the culinary offerings at each community. An additional five managers and 20 supervisors manage day-to-day operations and team member scheduling and training. “We strive for a high level of excellence at Willow Valley Communities, and that certainly includes our culinary offering,” Sharon stated.
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With more than 2,500 residents at Willow Valley Communities, Sharon and her team are busy. Eleven culinary venues at Willow Valley Communities, including those in the residential and supportive living buildings, serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner 365 days a year. The team operates two cafés and coffee shops, including Marketplace and Vitality Café on the Lakes campus, The Overlook Artisanal Coffeehouse and Wine Bar, and The Clubhouse Café and Ice Cream Parlor on the Manor campus. In addition, the team manages two fine dining venues: Four Seasons at Spring Run, and Willow Valley Communities’ full-service gourmet restaurant, Local Table, located in The Clubhouse. Additionally, the team is in charge of the food and beverage offerings at The VUE, the exciting rooftop lounge at The Vistas community. It also oversees Corner Sweets, Willow Valley Communities’ demonstration bakery located in the North community. Less widely known is the production kitchen that has been in operation for
nearly 26 years. Located on the ground level of the North community, a team of five produce 105 varieties of soup from scratch for all of Willow Valley Communities, as well as stocks, gravies, and most desserts, including gluten-free and no-sugar-added options. Catering special dinners and events provides residents with the ability to entertain family and friends without having to do the work. Sharon’s catering team includes a chef and a catering manager, who plan every detail and execute delicious meals, creating memorable experiences for all. The catering team also coordinates special culinary events at Willow Valley Communities. One of the most popular is the annual Lobsterfest. Each August, members of the team travel to Maine to personally pick up fresh lobsters for the nearly 200 residents who attend this annual event held at Chautauqua Hall. The scope of service the Willow Valley Communities Culinary Services team provides is somewhat mind-boggling. Willow Valley Communities has 2,500 residents from 37 states, age 55 and better, covering several generations. Ninety percent of the food served to residents is prepared from scratch in Willow Valley Communities’ kitchens. There are a lot of dietary preferences and palates and Sharon’s team is able to satisfy most all of them. “Whether someone is vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, calorie conscious, has specific dietary requirements, or anything in between, we
Willow Valley Communities
FUN ANNUAL FOOD FACTS:
Total meals served – 1.7 million 11,505 gallons of ice cream in 45 different flavors, scooped
1,028 turkeys, basted and roasted 6,137 pounds of beef tenderloin, carved 19,470 gallons of soup, 105 varieties, prepared on site in the production kitchen
5,000 recipes in our system Over $100k spent on fresh farm produce during the growing season
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“We take residents’ feedback very seriously.” — Sharon Habanec,
Vice President of Culinary Services
cater to them.” Three different entrée items that change daily are offered in the main dining venues, but the options don’t end there. There are a variety of alternatives available upon request. The offerings cycle around the four seasons, allowing for creative menu planning. With most items cooked to order, residents can meet both dietary requirements and satisfy their personal tastes. One Willow Valley Communities resident tells her story of how in November 2017, she transitioned to a whole food, plantbased diet to lose weight and lower her blood pressure and cholesterol. And
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she’s forthright about the challenge she presented, saying, “I admit, I drove the culinary team a little crazy with all my questions and needs. However, their willingness to make changes in the menus and preparation of the food has been most welcome. I’ve lost the weight and dropped 40 points in blood pressure and 71 in my cholesterol. My husband has also become healthier. Our success in reaching our goals has been helped tremendously by the Willow Valley Communities Culinary Services Team.” The Willow Valley Communities Culinary Services Team is a self-managed operation with the freedom to design and manage all of
its own programs. However, there is a high level of resident involvement. “We take residents’ feedback very seriously. It’s so important to us,” says Sharon. “We make every attempt to please them and exceed their expectations.” One of the keys to success for her team is that it is constantly analyzing food offerings. Her chefs have the creative freedom to come up with new recipes, and they work very hard at maintaining open communication with residents. “We are very transparent,” explains Sharon. At the most basic level, Sharon says, “Table touches are very important. My front-of-the-house supervising staff continually interacts with our diners at each meal period to get residents’ feedback.” They email a detailed report to Sharon every evening with residents’ thoughts on the meal and service. Residents also have the opportunity to complete comment cards, which are reviewed by the Culinary Services Leadership Team. In the first six months of this year, 30,000 comment cards were collected.
Three Dining Committees, which include resident representatives from all locations and the culinary management team, meet monthly. It’s a great opportunity to share what is happening in the department and review culinary selections and possible improvements that can be made to recipes, production, or products. At special taste-testing sessions held quarterly, the Culinary Services Team presents new recipes to residents. Recipes are created by the chefs, or may come directly from residents’ suggestions. Residents taste the dishes and provide their feedback. Willow Valley Communities’ chefs plan the next season’s culinary offerings based on the outcomes of these tastings. Willow Valley Communities Manager of Nutrition and Culinary Services, Stephanie Sodak, also works with the chefs through the menu planning process, assessing the menus for overall nutritional balance, and, of course, taste. “Food can have a significant impact on our quality of life and can help us to maintain good health. As a registered dietitian, I think it is very important to make informed decisions about what we eat,” she explains. Stephanie nutritionally analyzes the recipes and makes them available on Net Nutrition, a nutrition analysis webpage that allows residents to make smart food choices. Stephanie also plans nutrition education programs and provides one-onone education to residents upon request. Sharon is also very proud of Willow Valley Communities’ extensive Farm-toTable program. “We are so lucky to be in Lancaster,” she says, “The produce here is second to none.” Culinary Services Supervisor, Dwight Hess, heads up the farm program and says he has enjoyed getting to know local farmers and working directly with them to plan and grow seasonal produce for Willow Valley Communities’ menu cycles.
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“The produce is picked at peak freshness and is full of natural flavors and vitamins,” Dwight explains. “We can drive to the farm and see the fields, look at how the crop is doing, watch the daily activity on the farm, and see what we are going to get as an end product. We can stand behind the product because we truly know where it grew and how it was tended.” He added, “If a resident asks me where the heirloom tomatoes are from, I can say, ‘Just down the road in Quarryville, a nearby town.’ ” The Farm-to-Table program is also part of Willow Valley Communities’ commitment to our planet’s sustainability. Craig Thompson, Executive Vice President of Residential Operations and Chief Sustainability Officer for Willow Valley Living, the management company for Willow Valley Communities, explains, “From a sustainability standpoint, the produce doesn’t have to be frozen or
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preserved and shipped long distances. This means less time on a truck and fewer greenhouse gases going into the atmosphere.” Scott Megill, Corporate Chef, shares his perspective on how the culinary department approaches the wide variety of dietary needs and desires of the residents. “A good metaphor is a tightrope walker with a long pole for balance. On one side are the residents who adhere to a vegan, or gluten-free diet, or have a desire for more ethnic foods—and on the other end of the pole are the residents who just want simple home-style meals like chicken pot pie and meatloaf. With the majority of the residents in the middle, we use their feedback to find a balance and walk that line. That pole manifests itself with the variety in our menus, the number of ‘always available’ items, and the staff’s willingness to make modifications to recipes based on resident needs. The culinary
department is working on developing a mindset of, ‘If we can do it, we will do it.’ ” Sharon says Willow Valley Communities’ Culinary Services Team strives to exceed expectations and provide a level of food and service that is synonymous with the level of quality experienced throughout Willow Valley Communities. She is incredibly proud of her team—especially of how well they work together. Quoting the team’s motto, Sharon says, “We really are one team with one mission. And that mission is to wow Willow Valley Communities’ residents every day, at every meal.”
Try these two favorite recipes from Willow Valley Communities in your own kitchen. Let us know what you think!
Turkey & Sweet Potato Stuffed Portabella Mushrooms 1 lb. ground turkey 1/2 cup onions, diced 1/4 cup celery, diced 1/4 cup carrots, diced 1 Tbsp. garlic, minced 1 Tbsp. ginger, minced 1 Tbsp. parsley, chopped
1 Tbsp. sage, chopped 1/2 Tbsp. rosemary, chopped 1 sweet potato 4 slices provolone 4 portabella mushrooms 1/2 Tbsp. salt 1 Tbsp. olive oil
Wrap the sweet potato in aluminum foil with a teaspoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Bake in a 375 degree oven for about 30 minutes, or until very tender. Let cool to room temperature, remove foil, peel skin and fork mash. Reserve. Sauté garlic, ginger, and mirepoix (onions, celery, and carrots) in the remaining oil on medium-high heat, add ground turkey and cook until vegetables are tender and turkey is cooked through. Fold in herbs and sweet potato mash, season with remaining salt. Reserve. Remove the stem and gills from the portabellas and remove any dirt with a brush and or a towel. Lay bottom side up on a baking tray and top evenly with turkey mix and bake for 10–15 minutes in 375 degree oven. Top with provolone cheese and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
Scott Megill, Corporate Chef; Manny Martinez, Chef, Manor North
Yolk Pasta Dough Herb Inlay 9 egg yolks 6.2 ounces Tipo 00 flour (A fine-ground flour, smaller ground than an all-purpose flour. Found at most grocery stores.) 2.3 ounces Semolina flour 1 Tbsp. Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) 2 Tbsp. cold water 1 tsp. cold water to brush on dough 2 sprigs of fresh oregano, basil, parsley 4 chives cut into 1-inch pieces
Photo credit: Dan Marschka, LNP/LancasterOnline
Combine the flours in a bowl. Turn out onto your workspace and create a well in the center. Combine yolks, water, and EVOO inside the well, being careful not to allow the liquid to exit the center. Use a fork or fore and middle fingers together to gently begin to whisk the yolks and liquid together. Slowly begin to pull the sides of the well walls into the yolks. This process of slowly combining the flour and yolks helps to aid in the proper building of gluten in the dough, which will give the tooth or “al dente” desired in the texture of this dough. Once all of the flour is combined with the yolks, begin to knead the dough to continue building gluten. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until there is a 3/4 spring back in the dough (press thumb with medium to light pressure into the dough until the dough resists that pressure and springs 3/4 of the way back to original state.) Mold the dough into a smooth disk and wrap gently with plastic. Chill for one hour before use. Once chilled, roll out on a pasta roller to #8 thickness using the classic method of twice through each setting. Using a 3-oz. portion of dough at a time will yield about a 2-ft piece. After rolling out, randomly place herbs here and there on half of the dough being sure to leave some space at the edges of the dough. Gently brush the perimeter of the dough with a very small amount of water to ensure the dough stays together. Fold the dough in half, encasing the herbs in the dough. Gently press down to create a seal. Set the pasta roller to the #6 setting. Feed your pasta through the setting twice, then #7 twice. Bring 1 gallon of water to a boil (the rule being about 1 pound of pasta dough to 1 gallon of water), add two generous pinches of salt. Cook pasta for about a minute (fresh pasta absorbs water much quicker than typical store bought dried pasta) until al dente. Dress in your preferred sauce or try just a touch of butter, Parmesan and black pepper.
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Forrest and Kay Collier with Jen Rynier, manager of Camp Willow
Excellent. Innovative. I
t happens every June at Willow Valley Communities. A special tradition that brings a special energy to the air. A special excitement—It’s Camp Willow.
Camp Willow is Willow Valley Communities’ annual weeklong day camp for residents’ grandchildren. Each June, 75 children, ages 7-12, come from across the country— 19 states were represented this year—to Willow Valley Communities to spend a fun-filled week of activities, crafts, swimming, bowling, fishing, games, trips, and more. They also spent the week creating a lifetime of memories. Jen Rynier, Willow Valley Communities Events Coordinator, manages Camp Willow and has been in charge of the camp since its inception 10 years ago. She remembers when the idea for an organized camp first came up. Residents, Forrest and Kay Collier, had their two granddaughters spend a week with them; a week of “camp like” life with all kinds of activities including crafts, mystery trips, and special meals. The girls called it “Granny Camp.” It was great fun for everyone. In a conversation with Jen, Forrest and Kay spoke about their experience and the idea of a similar event for residents’ grandchildren at Willow Valley Communities. Jen got to work, did the research, and Camp Willow was born. 18
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Fun!
Today Camp Willow is an award-winning, weeklong, activitypacked intergenerational day camp. One of the benefits of the camp is how it helps bring families together. There are camp activities keeping the campers engaged all day long, as well as other planned activities throughout the week to provide opportunities for grandparents to bond with their grandkids. A welcome breakfast is spent with them, as well as the farewell lunch. There is also a day trip with campers and their grandparents to share. “It’s a busy, busy week,” Jen says. Jen plans the entire weeklong 9-to-4 schedule. There is never a theme because she feels that would limit the scope of the camp. “Themes are what every other camp does. Camp Willow is different. For example, we don’t just paint a picture on a piece of paper. We paint it on a canvas and display it in our art gallery for all residents to see and enjoy. Having the artwork displayed in the Willow Valley Communities Art Gallery makes the kids feel special,” explained Jen. “Willow Valley Communities has a spirit of excellence, and so does Camp Willow. It’s what we do.”
Jen added that the events and the programming for Camp Willow get better and better each year. “I’m always looking,” she says. “I’m always thinking about it throughout the year. I love meeting new people who can share their skill, trade, or talent with our campers.” Jen believes the best part of Camp Willow is the activities that other Willow Valley Communities’ residents coordinate. Residents from many of Willow Valley Communities’ 100 clubs are involved, sharing their talents with presentations and activities for the campers. The Wood Shop, Camera Club, and Fishing Club are just a few who enjoy taking part in the camp. There are also other traditional camp activities such as swimming, a mobile game truck, various art projects, and time in the Willow Valley Communities Clubhouse enjoying bowling and the vintage arcade. Jen says the outstanding amenities at Willow Valley Communities give her many awesome options for the campers. Jen also explained how Willow Valley Communities’ team members enjoy helping with the camp. “It’s a nice change of pace and for those who are planning to enter the education field, it’s excellent experience.” She estimates that over 500 children have experienced Camp Willow over the past ten years. The very first Camp Willow campers are now in their twenties and Jen is always interested in getting updates from their grandparents about what they are doing now. She also enjoys seeing campers return year after year and noticing how they have grown. She especially loves seeing the family resemblances between the campers and their grandparents—the residents she sees every day. Camp Willow has been recognized for its excellence. LeadingAge, a senior industry professional association with over 6,000 members, has given Camp Willow its Innovation of the Year award. Camp Willow was also selected as the Favorite Day Camp in LNP’s (Lancaster Newspapers) Readers’ Choice Awards. Jen is not surprised by these awards. “That’s what we do at Willow Valley Communities... excellence is our culture. We do it for seniors; why not for children?”
Kay and Forrest Collier remember with Jen Rynier how Camp Willow got started.
Kay and Forrest Collier pose with two of their grandchildren, Troy and Megan, at Camp Willow. But, the accolades Jen cares about most are the ones she receives from resident grandparents and from parents at the end of the week. “You can’t ever imagine all that Camp Willow does for us,” wrote one grandparent. “I am forever grateful to your amazing Willow Valley Communities staff for going that extra mile to make us current and important to our grandchildren who are growing up in such a different world.” And of course Jen relishes in the thanks she receives from the campers themselves. “When I hear from a camper at the end of the week, ‘This is the best camp I’ve ever been to,’ that’s very meaningful to me.” “When you sit back and think about what this does for a family, it’s really quite amazing,” Jen added. Jen described how Camp Willow has allowed adult children of residents to be able to spend quality time with their parents while their own children are enjoying camp activities. Parents have been able to go on a vacation alone knowing their children were happy and spending time at Camp Willow with their grandparents. Campers have come across the country— from as far as California—to have a weeklong visit with their grandparents. “The adults recognize the gift it is for multiple generations of a family to be able to spend that kind of quality time together. One grandparent wrote me to say that her granddaughter was 12 and that was the first time they had ever spent time alone together without her mom being involved. They really got close that week and now they text each other regularly.” Jen reflected a little more and said, “All that the children understand now is that camp is fun. But what they don’t understand is the memories they make today, they will cherish the rest of their lives.” “Camp Willow is one very special—and very fun way kids will remember their grandparents for the rest of their lives.” WillowValleyCommunities.org
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WILLOW VALLEY COMMUNITIES’
Athletes Put “Life Lived
The 2019 Willow Valley Communities’ National Senior Games Team
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Pam Schorr Wellness Manager, Willow Valley Communities
Cody Sensenig Lead Fitness Specialist, Willow Valley Communities 20
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he National Senior Games Association (“The Games”), a 20-sport competition for men and women 50 and over, is the largest multi-sport event in the world for seniors. The Games take place every other year, and athletes must qualify at state-level games in order to participate at the national level. NSGA member organizations hold annual games with qualifying competitions in the year preceding The Games. Athletes who meet specific criteria while participating in the State Senior Games, qualify. When Willow Valley Communities first attended The Games in 2007, six residents participated. Fast forward to just over a decade later in 2019, 30 Willow Valley Communities’ athletes competed at The Games held in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The athletes were escorted by Willow Valley Communities’ Wellness Manager, Pam Schorr, and Cody Sensensig, Lead Fitness Specialist.
The two coordinated the travel arrangements and other logistics for the group and helped with training for the competitions. Willow Valley Communities supported the athletes by covering a portion of the cost of attending. “No other community is as committed to its athletes as Willow Valley Communities,” said Pam. “I truly enjoy the planning and getting our athletes to their competitions. I know how hard they have worked for this and I know at that point they are ready,” Pam added. “It’s really an opportunity for me to see our residents in a different capacity.” This year’s competitors brought back a total of 39 awards: 5 gold medals, 8 silver medals, 3 bronze medals, and 23 ribbons in a variety of sports competitions. “It’s a very tough competition,” explained Pam. “Gold is first place, Silver is second, and Bronze is third. The ribbons award 4th through 8th places—that’s very impressive!”
Forward” into Action
at the National Senior Games.
Cody, who is 25 years old, was also very impressed with the level of competition at The Games. “These are absolutely legitimate athletes,” he said. “I was just shocked. You have no idea until you see it in action. They have never lost that fire, that competitive edge.” Both Pam and Cody quickly agreed that even though the seniors were serious, competitive athletes, it was a very friendly atmosphere with everyone supportive of each other. “There was a lot of cheering going on for everyone,” they both remembered. Pam said that was one of her favorite parts of the entire experience. “It’s so amazing to cheer them on. It inspires me to inspire others. It sparks interests and motivation. It makes others think, ‘Hey, I can do that too.’ ” Del Moon, Communications and Media Director of the National Senior Games Association, echoed with similar sentiments. “The Games,” he said, “are really about Fitness, Fun, and Fellowship.” He adds that surprisingly, it’s a small minority of participants who have been athletic all their lives. “Typically the athletes have either picked up a new sport in recent years, or have returned to a sport that they had to leave decades ago because of life’s obligations.” Del also explained that training and competing in The Games may or may not add years to your life, but it will definitely add life to your years. “Find something you love to do and don’t stop doing it,” he said. Pam and Cody encourage others to consider participating in the National Senior Games. “Check it out,” said Cody. “With so many different sports to compete in, there is something for everyone. And who knows? You may just surprise yourself at what you can accomplish!” WillowValleyCommunities.org
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Willow Valley Communities Supports Lancaster’s Power Packs Project With Catering Chef Fernando Garcia-Aguila
Photo Credit: Dan Marschka LNP/LancasterOnline 22
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One Meal Can Change Everything for a Child —Chef Fernando Garcia-Aguila
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n just about any day of the week, residents will find catering chef Fernando Garcia-Aguila effortlessly creating show-stopping recipes for events held at Willow Valley Communities. His culinary repertoire covers traditional American dishes, as well as those tried and true from his native Cuba. His smile never dims and his love of serving never falters. Fernando knows what it’s like to need help. But he also knows what it’s like to get that help. It took Fernando eight attempts before he successfully escaped his native communist Cuba on July 4, 2007. Eventually finding himself in Lancaster, PA, without knowing a word of English, he worked hard and studied hard. Beyond learning the language, his focus was always on his goal of becoming an American citizen. Along the way, Fernando was helped by many Lancastrians who never forgot their own immigrant roots. And Fernando has never forgotten their kindness. He recalls the story of one couple he met while working at a produce stand at Lancaster’s vibrant Central Market. The job was a tough one for Fernando; he knew only a few words in English for the many fruits and vegetables he was trying to sell at the stand. Many people ignored him—too impatient to try to understand what he was saying— too much in a hurry to purchase their produce from someone who had to struggle with the words. Fernando, filled with frustration, was brought to tears several times, until the day he met a couple who said they wanted to teach him English. He graciously took them up on their offer. During one of the language tutorials in their home, Fernando asked the couple why they were helping him. Fernando says that he will never forget the response. The man went upstairs and returned with an old photo album, which was filled with black and white photos of his family who had come to America from the Czech Republic. “He then looked at me straight in the eyes,” Fernando recounts, “and he said, ‘The same way someone helped my family when they came here, that’s how I want to help you.’ ” “That’s what it came down to. He just wanted to help me,” Fernando remembers. “What an awesome gesture.” WillowValleyCommunities.org
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Children have fun while learning about cooking from Willow Valley Communities’ Chef Fernando. And now, Fernando is delighted that he is now in a position to be able to give back and help the Lancaster community he has grown to love. He’s working with a Lancaster nonprofit, Power Packs Project. Power Packs provides nutritious meals over weekends to children when school breakfast and lunch programs are unavailable to them. Power Packs’ executive director, Jennifer Thompson, explains, “Nutrition plays a vital role in children’s ability to succeed in school. Hungry children can’t learn.” Power Packs currently serves 1,350 children 32 weeks out of school year. It operates through private donations. www.powerpacksproject.org Through Willow Valley Communities’ partnership with Lancaster’s Power Packs Project, Fernando is able to share his passion for culinary arts with the children of the School District of Lancaster. Fernando, working with Power Packs, runs fun, educational cooking demonstrations using the food items donated each week to the students. He shows the children how to prepare the meal, and he talks to them about the different ingredients and spices. It’s his hope that the children he works with will take what they learn from him and share it with their families at home. “It’s not so much about cooking it, but about talking about it. To be involved as a family,” Fernando explains. Fernando appreciates his position as catering chef at Willow Valley Communities and the flexible creativity it allows for him to be able to do this.
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“You never know what passion you are awakening within a child when you are teaching,” Fernando says. He hopes that through this program with Power Packs, some of the children may consider culinary arts as a career path. “It would really be rewarding for me if one of the children in the program comes back to me in 20 years as a chef and says, ‘Hey, I was that kid...’ ” Fernando truly believes that one meal can change everything for a child. As a boy growing up in Cuba, he had to cook for his two younger twin brothers while both of his parents worked. “Food is what started everything for me,” he remembers. “Food makes people happy and it brings people together. Mealtimes are sharing times,” he says. But whether that one demonstration affects a child’s entire life, or just stays with them for one meal, Fernando says that even one meal with his or her family is a gift. “Every smile behind a plate is priceless,” he says with a wink.
WillowValleyCommunities.org
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COMMUNITY OUTREACH: Helping Children in Need throughout Lancaster
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ori Steiner, Manager of Resident Services at Willow Valley Communities and chair of the Willow Valley Community Outreach Committee, can’t hide her passion for helping children throughout Lancaster County. It all started 13 years ago when she decided to wrap a few presents for a Christmas party for children in need. Today, Cori and her committee of ten coordinate three annual events throughout the year: Sneakers for School, Corn Hole for a Cause, and the Holiday Gift Giving Project.
“There is no greater gift than giving back.” — Cori Steiner
Chair of the Willow Valley Communities Community Outreach Committee
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The work of the committee helps thousands of children through several Lancaster area organizations. Sneakers for School provides hundreds of pairs of new sneakers and socks to children for their first day of school. Cornhole for a Cause raises money to help high school seniors take their next step toward long-term success after graduation. The annual Holiday Gift Giving Project party is a wonderful holiday celebration for children and their families, providing hundreds of practical gifts. Willow Valley Communities’ residents and team members work together closely to plan, prepare for, and execute the events—collecting, wrapping, shopping, and serving, to make each one successful and meaningful. Cori says that since Willow Valley Communities’ residents come from a wide variety of backgrounds and geographical regions across the country, the committee benefits from their wealth of experience and breadth of ideas. Willow Valley
Communities’ clubs and organizations help, too, by donating their time and talents with special projects. Cori is proud of the impact the committee has. “Every penny we raise, every item we collect, helps a child in need in Lancaster County,” she said. “It makes a huge difference.” Cori went on to explain that poverty often has an impact on three generations of a family. “Sometimes this lifestyle is all a family knows.” Cori highlighted Willow Valley Communities’ latest initiative, Cornhole for a Cause. Monies raised during this fun tournament go toward the fees that are often associated with a high school graduate transitioning to life after school. “There are always costs associated with a graduate moving on to higher education or a place in the workforce,” Cori explained. “Whether it’s college application fees, or work boots for a trade job, sometimes
these costs can literally keep a child from taking the next step in life. Cornhole for a Cause helps break that cycle of poverty.” Cori is also appreciative of the support she receives from Willow Valley Communities’ vendors during Cornhole for a Cause. Cori has saved each “thank you” note she has received from every child and every organization that has been helped by Willow Valley Communities. “People are truly thankful for what we do,” said Cori. Cori is always looking for new causes and new ways to help the children of Lancaster County. She’s grateful for all the support she receives from Willow Valley Communities’ residents and team members— but she’s really not surprised. “This is our culture at Willow Valley Communities,” she explained. “We serve and we help any way we can.”
Dr. Damaris Rau, (third from left) Superintendent of the School District of Lancaster, smiles as WIllow Valley Communities’ residents deliver sneakers to Families in Transition at Carter and MacRae Elementary School. WillowValleyCommunities.org
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N E W AT W I L L O W VA L L E Y C O M M U N I T I E S :
SouthPointe at Lakes W
illow Valley Communities is excited to announce plans for our newest community, SouthPointe at Lakes. Located at the south end of our beautiful Lakes campus, SouthPointe at Lakes will include all new villas ready for occupancy beginning summer of 2020, and deluxe apartment homes coming soon. Here, you’ll enjoy the many amenities, carefree lifestyle, and our Lifecare promise that make Willow Valley Communities an ideal choice for today’s senior living.
SouthPointe Park—Villas
Home to 88 modern, yet classic, villas, SouthPointe Park is a community within a community. These brand new villa homes will feature four distinctive designs with floor plans ranging from 1,645 to 2,010 square feet. All feature premium interior elements like granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and hardwood floors in select areas of the homes. Each will include its own two-car garage.
SouthPointe Village—Apartments
Imagine the ease of luxury apartment living in any of the residences that comprise SouthPointe Village. The apartments will be offered in two floor plans—two bedroom/two-and-a-half baths or two bedroom/two-anda-half baths plus study—that will have you agreeing that maintenance-free living couldn’t be easier. Plus, you’ll enjoy all of the benefits and amenities that Willow Valley Communities offers across our extended community. For more information about Willow Valley Communities’ newest community, visit: www.SouthPointeWVC.org
WillowValleyCommunities.org
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Life Lived Forward
600 Willow Valley Square Lancaster, PA 17602
Willow Valley Communities features 210 beautifully landscaped acres located 3 miles from downtown Lancaster. Come for a warm, welcoming visit today!
The Willow Valley Communities Way For 35 years, Willow Valley Communities has been dedicated to helping people pursue exceptional lives. Our mission is simple: to inspire each person to embrace the possibilities of a Life Lived Forward. We are committed to innovative programming, operational excellence, and prudent financial practices.
Our communities provide the security of Lifecare, which includes short- and long-term care should you need it later — with no change to your monthly service fee due to the increased level of care. And we are grateful to have been affirmed for our efforts. In addition to the many awards and recognitions
we receive every year from various organizations, we consistently receive an “A” rating from Fitch Ratings, affirming our proven financial stability. Our most important recognition, though, comes from the people who have made Willow Valley Communities their home.
Phone 866.642.7330 | www.WillowValleyCommunities.org | www.LifeLivedForward.org | info@willowvalley.org
