“We’re very proud that 89 cents of every donated dollar goes directly to Parkinson’s research,” said Haley Deal, Associate Director of Advancement for the Michael J. Fox foundation. “It all goes strictly to research funding and finding a cure or improving the lives of people living with Parkinson’s.”

Deal visited Arbour Square as a presenter for the monthly Parkinson’s support group meeting, which is held the fourth Wednesday of every month. “We discussed how the Michael J. Fox foundation started, as well as some of the current research that is going on,” said Deal. At the conclusion of Deal’s presentation, the Arbour Square Resident’s Association made a donation of $1,000. This donation was matched by Arbour Square resident and Dean Mininger, as well as another couple in attendance, for a total donation of $3,000.

“The presentation was very helpful in understanding the disease,” said Mininger, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s 12 years ago. “It was a tough diagnosis for me to accept. It’s all symptom related; there are no blood tests for it.”

Mininger did not go in to the meeting expecting to make a donation, but he was impressed with Deal’s presentation and her knowledge of the disease. “I read about it all the time and stay up to date with it. She was very educated,” Mininger said. “You donate a dollar and you know where it goes; you can’t say the same about some other organizations.”

Mininger has been attending the monthly Parkinson’s support group since he first moved in at Arbour Square. “It’s nice to be there with people experiencing the same things as you; some people deal with it differently, but depression is common in people diagnosed with Parkinson’s, so they need that support,” said Mininger. “Being informed and staying informed is key.”

Arbour Square of Harleysville is an all-inclusive, independent living community that promotes a vibrant retirement lifestyle. Services include delicious home cooked meals served in our beautiful dining room, activities and social events, exercise and wellness programs, trips and transportation, housekeeping services and much more. Arbour Square offers residents a month-to-month lease with no long-term contracts or entrance fees. For more information, please call Julie Kline, director of marketing, at 267-677-1200, or visit www.arboursquare.com

The Selection Committee has only bestowed this honor to four recipients of the 9th District Pennsylvania American Legion.

Weaver, 89, a 50 year member of the American Legion, was presented with the award by 9th District Commander, John Pashley; Deputy District Commander, William Douglass; and Past Department Commander of Pennsylvania, Joseph V. Glazier. She was bestowed the award in honor of her longevity of service to the Pennsylvania American Legion.

The American Legion is the nation’s largest wartime Veterans service organization aimed at advocating patriotism across the United States through diverse programs and member benefits. There are more than 800 American Legion Posts across the state of Pennsylvania; the 9th District encompasses Bucks and Montgomery Counties.

Her commitment to serving others began early in her life. While a nurse at Camp Indian Run, Weaver, then 22, heard a radio announcement referencing the turmoil in Korea.

“I decided to put my money where my mouth was and joined the Air Force,” said Weaver.

She reported for duty on Dec. 4, 1950. She did not receive basic training because while in high school she was in the Civil Air Patrol, which taught her military courtesy and discipline. Instead, on her second day she was placed in a psychiatry ward, and was trained in neuropsychology.

After her service during the Korean War, she married and spent the next ten years in the Active Reserves. Weaver then went on to employment as a Suicide and Crisis Intervention Counselor for the City of Philadelphia, retiring in 1986. She also served as the American Legion’s chairperson of the Children and Youth Committee for Pennsylvania.

“I’ve had a very full life. It’s a great honor to be recognized and receive this award from the Legion,” said Weaver, smiling.

As part of the award, she was presented with a legion cap that is worn at all legion meetings, special appearances, and other ceremonies. Weaver cherishes her cap and is proud of her dedication to serving others has culminated to this honorary award.

“We are fortunate to have wonderful residents with an outstanding and caring staff who make a difference in their lives, ” said Mimi Kehan, executive director of Arbour Square of Harleysville. “Our goal has always been to exceed our residents’ expectations, and the community staff and leadership team dedicate themselves to delivering on that promise. The residents and families always have many compliments about living at Arbour Square of Harleysville, as seen by the positive feedback they share on Caring.com. We are honored to be recognized as a Caring Star of 2018.”

Online reviews help Americans research and select the best senior care providers for aging or ailing loved ones. In multiple Caring.com research studies, the majority of family caregivers have indicated that they turn to the Internet and consumer reviews when narrowing their options among senior living communities in their area, and have relied on these perspectives as much as or more so than in-person recommendations from geriatric professionals or medical personnel. Now entering its seventh year, the Caring Stars annual list helps consumers see which senior living communities are top rated by other families just like theirs – which is particularly helpful as families gather for the holidays and discover increased or urgent senior care needs for their parents or grandparents.

“Congratulations to Arbour Square of Harleysville for achieving this award after earning accolades from residents and their loved ones on Caring.com, ” said Karen Cassel, Caring.com CEO. “This important milestone speaks volumes about the positive difference Arbour Square of Harleysville is making in serving older adults, and we join with the local community in celebrating their accomplishment.” Some of the positive feedback that led to Arbour Square of Harleysville being a Caring Star of 2018 includes: • “The Campus Executive Director Mimi is super visible leading a great team and her leadership is extremely genuine...she knows every single resident on a first name basis.”

•“Nothing can compare to Arbour Square. Its run very personal and professional and the staff is extremely caring and knowledgeable.”

• “We are so grateful to the entire staff that do such an amazing job in making Arbor Square a wonderful place to spend the golden years of your life.” Read the full text of these reviews and others on Caring.com: https://www.caring.com/local/independent-living-in-harleysville-pennsylvania/arbour-square-of-harleysville. To learn more about the Caring Stars program and view the complete winner list, please visit: https://www.caring.com/bestseniorliving

The Arbour Square Residents Association invites local community members to this unique thrift store formerly only open to residents and their guests. The Nifty Thrifty Shoppe began Fourth of July weekend in 2014, while residents were collecting donations to sell at the annual Holiday Bazaar held in November. Some residents started asking if they could purchase items, and it sparked an idea. Arbour Square resident and thrift shop originator Dot Hendershot, 83, took the idea to Executive Director Mimi Kehan and the concept of the Nifty Thrifty Shoppe was born. Since then, the thrift shop has grown in popularity as a hot spot for purchasing gently used clothing, household items and furniture.

“Our residents are really unique. Many have a fantastic entrepreneurial spirit, and when they came to us with this idea, we couldn’t say no. The store is completely run and managed by residents, who take enormous pride in it,” says Kehan.

Hendershot and fellow resident, Lyn Serianni, 82, oversee the operations of the Nifty Thrifty Shoppe in collaboration with The Arbour Square Resident Association. When residents aren’t stopping by to browse or purchase various goods, many frequently volunteer their time to help sort, price and tend to the shop. “We have little knick-knacks, kitchenware items, furniture pieces, clothes, and personal care items,” said Hendershot. Both women agree that the hottest item for donation and purchase is furniture.

To uphold Hendershot’s and Serianni’s strict standards, only items donated by Arbour Square residents are accepted because each item goes through an inspection and approval process before being sold. All of the donation proceeds benefit local charitable organizations. Funds are regularly donated to the local EMS, police and fire departments, as well as other community-based charitable organizations. In the past, donations were made to Keystone Opportunity Center in Souderton and Manna on Main Street in Lansdale.

Arbour Square of Harleysville’s mission is to promote the independence of residents and provide an enhanced living experience. Diverse activities, services and expanded amenities, such as the Nifty Thrifty Shoppe, support that pursuit. The thrift shop has become a social hub within the senior living community. Hendershot enjoys her time spent here. “I’m more active and more social because there are always people in and out of the store. I get to meet all the new people when they’re moving in,” said Hendershot with a smile. “It has created a camaraderie among all the residents.”

Local community members are invited to stop by the Nifty Thrifty Shoppe at Arbour Square and take a look at all the fantastic items for sale. “We offer everything, other than food items at affordable prices,” said Serianni. The Nifty Thrifty Shoppe is open to residents and the public Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Rathschmidt, 82, admits she was overcome with nervousness during her first attempts but found the overall experience soothing thanks to the patience of her instructor, Louisa Wismer. “I never thought I’d be able to do it, but Louisa is very encouraging,” said Rathschmidt. “She offers guidance and support. You can’t find instructors like that.”

Wismer is a well-known Bucks County artist and art teacher. She teaches all media and enjoys seeing students explore and experiment with color and different mediums to discover their hidden talents. Wismer teaches Watercolor 101 at Arbour Square twice a month.

Rathschmidt finds the watercolor class easy to follow and continues her newfound hobby outside the classroom. She set-up her own painting area in her spacious apartment to accommodate her passion, and is now able to produce artworks whenever a creative mood strikes her.

Recently, Rathschmidt entered her painting into Arbour Square’s annual Artisan Exhibit, where residents and staff members showcased their collection of artworks. In addition, family members and local community members came out to show support for the artistic abilities of the residents.

Mary Ann Flynn, Rathschmidt’s daughter, is thrilled about the class and is noticing a change in her mother’s demeanor. “All the activities at Arbour Square are wonderful. She’s really excited, she enjoys painting and looks forward to the next class,” said Flynn. “The watercolor class has encouraged my mother to try more activities.”

If you are interested in joining the watercolor class or learning more about the activities offered at Arbour Square, please call Julie Kline, director of marketing, at 267-677-1204.

Zheng recently graduated from Souderton Area High School, and was ranked in the top five percentile of his graduating class. “Jerry is among the most extraordinary and unique students I have known,” said Souderton Area High School’s Principal, Sam Varano. “His potential to contribute to our local, regional, and world communities is limitless.” Zheng currently works as a buffet server at Henning’s Supermarket in Harleysville, as well as Country Garden Chinese Restaurant, which happens to be owned by his family. Zheng’s desire to pursue a career in the culinary arts was sparked by his time spent at his family’s restaurant. “Even though my family owns a house, we practically live in the restaurant,” said Zheng.

There are a number of other influences that helped impact Zheng’s decision to pursue the culinary arts as well. “Watching people create opulent dishes was my inspiration,” Zheng said. Although he admits to never watching cooking shows when he was younger, he did see a number of skills on display while growing up in the restaurant industry. “Chef Charles Cole, Mrs. Jane Mitchell, Chef Mark Tarlecki, and Pastry Chef Alan Delong have all helped me fuel my dreams and ambitions.”

In addition to his exceptional talent in the kitchen, Zheng has also gone above and beyond in the classroom. Zheng was the first student from Souderton Area High School to earn the highest score in the state for the Academic Decathlon season, making him the individual state champion in 2017. “Jerry is unique as a student because he attempts to squeeze every inch of productivity out of his system,” said Phillip Cerami, Zheng’s Academic Decathlon coach and teacher at Souderton High School. “Where other students might be willing to take deserved rest, Jerry sees this as inefficient. He is driven to be the absolute best at whatever he is pursuing, whether that be culinary arts or the Academic Decathlon. He sees rest as weakness.”

At his middle school, Zheng took an aptitude test which revealed a high desire to serve others through hands-on work. “I always loved hands-on work. I enjoy carpentry, using electrical tools, and menial labor chores,” said Zheng.

“Many teachers have approached Jerry with things he’s ‘capable of’, such as science, engineering, medicine – all within his grasp,” said Cerami. “I see Jerry as a possible Alton Brown-style cook; mixing food and science to create something we’ve never seen before. Speak to Jerry and you’ll understand this passion. I’ve already reserved my table.”

The Keith Michael Howe Memorial Scholarship is named after a graduate of Souderton Area High School who passed away due to injuries sustained in a car accident in late 2012. This scholarship, in his memory, is awarded to a student who has demonstrated a gift in a vocational field, a passion for working closely and professionally with individuals of all ages and has a team-player personality. Howe was a role model to all who worked with him in the Arbour Square Community. He touched the hearts of all the senior and staff members.

The Presidential Award is chosen by the President of the ACF Philadelphia Chapter and is given to a member of the chapter who has gone out of their way to support the chapter in any way that they can.

“I actually had several people I looked at for this award, but Dave has really been a huge help to the whole organization in general,” said Mike McCombe, ACF Chapter President. “He’s just a great guy and I just thought he’s given so much of his time, which is why I thought he was deserving of the award.”

As the Director of Culinary Services at Arbour Square, Lademann is responsible for all kitchen operations and maintaining a healthy menu for the residents. Prior to working at Arbour Square, Lademann worked at The Blair Mill Inn for 15 years as the executive chef. He and his wife currently live in Jenkintown with their three daughters. Dave and his family dedicate a lot of their free time to help the ACF with its events.

Part of the reason McCombe chose Lademann for the award is due to his willingness to volunteer for just about everything. “Last year we put a Phillies game tailgate party together and Dave organized everything. He got all the food and got items donated and then he and his family came and cooked at the event. When they were done, they took the excess food to be donated to a shelter,” McCombe said. He continued to praise Lademann and his family for their consistent contributions to the ACF.

According to McCombe, nothing is ever too much for Lademann. He and his ACF chapter have worked with Gift of Life, which is an organization dedicated to coordinating life-saving transplants. In the past year, Lademann has also worked with Fuse to help raise money for students trying to earn scholarships. “Dave comes out to the schools and judges the exams and he’s really good with kids that are struggling; he’s really kind and nice to those kids,” McCombe said. “He truly is an amazing guy.”

For more information about Dave and how he provides healthy dining options for residents at Arbour Square, or to speak with someone about how your loved one can live life to the fullest at Arbour Square, please call 267-677-1200.

Residents visited the high school for a Candy Land themed night full of dancing, music, and food.
   The Seniors’ Prom is open to any seniors who live in the Souderton area and residents of Arbour Square were all given an invitation by the Resident Life Department. Arbour Square resident, Lois Diephaus, was there to experience the evening. “It was a lot more than I ever expected it to be,” she said. As the guests arrived in their prom attire, they were greeted at the entrance and escorted via golf cart to the reception area.
   Although Diephaus was set up with her date, she insists it’s not just a couples’ event. There were a number of people dancing with friends and there was no couples stigma. “I was amazed at how many of these people were out there dancing, and I mean, they could have been professional dancers,” she said. “The music was fabulous. It was 50s, some 60s and even some 40s, going back to Glen Miller’s music and that type of thing,” said Diephaus. “They had some faster music like jitterbugging and at one point they were even teaching different kinds of line dancing.” She and her date danced a lot, about 80 percent of time they were there, and the results were very sore knees and a very sore back.
   Despite the soreness, Diephaus could not have been happier with the night. “I sure would go again next year; I would highly promote it,” she said. “The DJ was fantastic; he knew the type of music to play for the group that was there.” She offered nothing but praises about their “limousine” as well, “Funny thing about it is we were riding over in the van in all of our formal dresses. I’ve been in limos many, many times but this is the first time I’ve been to a dance on a bus!” Residents were escorted by Resident Life Assistant, Pat Malvoso, who not only helped transport everyone, but also attended the dance himself. “Pat did a fabulous job of getting everyone on the buses and over there. Needless to say, I just love this place so much,” said Diephaus.

“The Top Workplaces award is not a popularity contest. And oftentimes, people assume it’s all about fancy perks and benefits,” says Doug Claffey, CEO of WorkplaceDynamics. “But to be a Top Workplace, organizations must meet our strict standards for organizational health. And who better to ask about work life than the people who live the culture every day—the employees. Time and time again, our research has proven that what’s most important to them is a strong belief in where the organization is headed, how it’s going to get there, and the feeling that everyone is in it together.” Claffey adds, “Without this sense of connection, an organization doesn’t have a shot at being named a Top Workplace.”

“We are especially honored to be receiving this award for the second year in a row,” said Campus Executive Director Mimi Kehan. “Our associates prove on a daily basis that they are willing to go above and beyond to provide outstanding service to our residents. What makes this accomplishment unique is that it is based on our employee feedback, which is a true testament to our culture and mission statement at Arbour Square. Our employees present themselves with a positive and respectful attitude to residents and families, as well as their fellow employees.”

Every year during the holiday season, the Residents’ Association at Arbour Square chooses to donate to a food pantry or other charitable foundation. This was the first time the Residents’ Association donated to Manna on Main Street. “We wanted to broaden our horizons into the community,” said Residents’ Association President Patricia Frey.

“We were very thankful when we were told that the Residents’ Association at Arbour Square would be coming to donate the $1,000 check; it was a wonderful visit,” said Manna on Main Street Development Officer Paige Harker.

The Residents’ Association did not donate the money to one specific department at Manna on Main Street, so the funds will be distributed as needed. “We appreciate that kind of donation because it’s what we really need,” said Harker. “When a resident [of the North Penn region] shows need, we help them get over the hump financially. We are so grateful to have such wonderful community support. There are so many businesses who really care and want to give back to the community; ‘Mom & Pop shops,’ as well as big corporations.”

Manna on Main Street is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation that provides emergency food services for people who are “food insecure” in Montgomery County. There are 3,500 people, or 11% of people in the North Penn region who fit into this category. Manna provides a variety of services to help these people meet their food needs. In the 2016 fiscal year, Manna on Main Street raised $116,000 in financial aid (www.mannaonmain.org).

For more information about charitable opportunities, or to speak with someone about how your loved one can live life to the fullest at Arbour Square, please call 215-677-1204.

Arbour Square of Harleysville News

Michael J. Fox Foundation receives charitable donations from Arbour Square & friends

Arbour Square resident named honorary 9th District Commander of the Pennsylvania American Legion

Arbour Square of Harleysville Honored among top senior living communities in the nation -- named "caring star of 2018" for service excellence in independent living

Senior entrepreneurs open thrift shop to the public

Arbour Square’s watercolor class enriches resident’s life

Jerry Zheng receives Arbour Square’s 2017 Keith Howe Memorial scholarship

Arbour Square’s Director of Culinary Services earns ACF Presidential Award

Residents of Arbour Square attend annual Senior’s Prom

Philly.com names Arbour Square of Harleysville winner of the Delaware Valley 2017 top Workplaces award

Arbour Square Residents’ Association donates $1,000 to Manna on Main Street