Host: Dale Johnson Guests: John Rushmere & Fred Deubert Description: Host Dale Johnson talks to WV residents, John Rushmere & Fred Deubert about their childhoods during WWII. These two men share a unique bond forged by their childhood experiences during the intense period of the Blitz in World War II. One of them hails from England, while the other spent their formative years in Munich, Germany. In delving into their narratives, we explore not only the similarities that unite them in the face of adversity but also the distinct stories that characterize their respective wartime upbringings.

Host: Carol MacAllister Guests: Tim Ryan & David Clingan Description: Tim Ryan (Lakes) and David Clingan (Manor) are the Managers of Maintenance on our two Willow Valley campuses. They share with host Carol MacAllister the breadth and depth of the work their departments do. Residents can SEE that they fix what is broken and replace what can’t be fixed in their homes, but in fact, they do so much more. Everything that has to do with the Brick and Mortar of WV, inside and out, is their domain. For every activity, function, or special event that needs a setup (and take down), (think Cultural Center and Chautauqua Hall), the maintenance department is there. Holidays like Christmas double their workloads, though the staff does not increase. Winter snows create round-the-clock efforts. This is a well-oiled operation, often invisible to the residents.

Host: Candace O'Donnell Guest: Gina De Vitry Description: Candace O’Donnell talks to Gina De Vitry, one of Willow Valley’s skilled and empathetic physical therapy assistants. They discuss Gina choosing this career after 20 years of teaching math, her training, the multiple techniques she uses, her teamwork with other therapists, and the joys that her work with Willow Valley residents brings her. Gina’s story is typical of all levels of continuing care at Willow Valley Communities.

Should you wish to contact Cassandre:Cassandre's email: [email protected]

Pat's office in the Lakes is behind the concierge Desk and at the Manor building, also behind the concierge desk.her email is: [email protected]

Host: Don Helin Guest: Corey Baughman Description: Maintaining fitness is an important part of the aging process and it can be a huge problem if you have health issues. Many of us are interested in improving, but sometimes never seem to get started.  So, whether you regularly exercise and want to improve, or it’s been a while and you aren’t sure how to get started on a fitness program, this podcast is for you. Corey Baughman, a fitness specialist at the Fitness and Aquatic Center explains what they have to offer and how they can help get you started on your own fitness plan.

Host: Dale Johnson Guest: Betty Palmieri Description: Betty Palmieri has taken the lead in overseeing the resident-operated Cash & Carry Program at Spring Run for an extensive period of time. Betty offers an exclusive glimpse into the inner workings of this initiative at Spring Run, as well as at other Willow Valley communities. Cash & Carry involves the collection of items donated by residents, the meticulous organization of a 3-day sale, and the contribution of the proceeds to a benevolent fund designed to assist residents facing financial hardships. The next Cash & Carry event at NORTH: November 30 - 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM December 1 - 9:00 - 10:30 AM - 1/2 off sale December 2 - 10:45 - 11:30 AM - $3 bag sale The next Cash & Carry event at SPRING RUN: December 5 - 1:00 - 5:00 PM December 6 - 10:00 - 4:00 PM December 7 - 9:00 - 10:45 AM - 1/2 price sale December 7 - 11:15 - 11:45 AM - $2 bag sale

For pet club, membership, you do not need to own a pet. There are no fees. Meetings will typically be held every other month on the second Wednesday of the month at 3:30 pm, beginning in January of each year. At Pet Club meetings, animal educational and topical information is shared. Location of meeting venues are rotated throughout the communities in WV.

Host: Ray Loewe Guest: Carol MacAllister Description: While an Associate Professor of Social Work at New Mexico State University, Carol took a summer job as a National Park Wilderness Ranger at the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. She was the first woman ever to be given this assignment (they were desperate), so they let her have her two dogs with her for protection. There was no electricity, the nearest store was 10 miles away, and the nearest help from the main ranger station was 50 miles away. Daily she cut wood, cleaned out houses, doused abandoned campfires, navigated invading cattle and sheep (it was an open range), avoided snakes and bears, coped with difficult campers, and rescued hikers from deep in the canyon It was a summer of adventure....and yes, she met a real cowboy rounding up his Brahman bull.

Host: Candace O'Donnell Guest: Lindsey Rawlings Description: A Willow Valley Social Worker and facilitator of the Caregivers Support Group talks to Candace O’Donnell about why she became a social worker and how she brings her heart and training to the WV Caregivers Support Group, helping those who are helping their loved ones embrace the challenges of the final years of life.

Host: Carol MacAllister Guest: Kristin Holloway Description: When Kristin Holloway returned to her home in Central Pennsylvania, she searched for a book that would tell her where to find day hikes she could explore alone or with her son and husband. There was none to be found. So, after deciding a book would take too long, she spent nine months learning how to construct a website. Her photography rivals that of professionals, and her tips for hikers is thorough and unique. Look for yourself. https://www.lancastercountydayhikes.com/

Host: Candace O'Donnell Guest: Bob Davis Description: Candace O'Donnell interviews Bob Davis about his upcoming play, The Companion Plan, which will open on October 10th at Spring Run Auditorium, and later at North Auditorium. Next, a surprise interview with Tina Anderson, director/producer/writer/actor, as she describes theater groups at Willow Valley and future productions.

Host: Carol McAllister Guest: Kristin Holloway Description: Kristin Holloway shares with host Carol MacAllister how her initial curiosity about beekeeping evolved into a fascination with these complex and master communal-living engineers. Honey bees live entirely for the community's welfare, which enables their critical role as pollinators of the foods humans and animals need to exist. Keeping her four hives healthy and happy is one way Kristin contributes to combating the decline of our pollinators due to Global Warming.

Official Rollettes Video 

Host: Candace O'Donnell Guest: Jack Himes Description: Candace O’Donnell interviews Willow Valley Resident Jack Himes about how his national championship line dancing career, was derailed by an injury and how he recovered using both a cane and a brace. Jack's drive and perseverance allowed him to resume his line dancing. In additional bonus content, line dance teacher Dottie Gersch and Podcast host Ray Loewe talk with Jack about his journey to recovery and how he motivates people to persevere.

Host: Candace O'Donnell Guest: Judi Schiff Description: Willow Valley resident Judi Schiff shares with interviewer Candace O'Donnell how she turned her four pet dogs into therapy dogs.  Her dogs shared their calming magic with grade school students, stressed-out college kids at test time, nursing home residents, and even those facing the last hours of life on earth. She is a daily witness to what the presence, touch, and affection of a dog can do for others. Judi also shared what goes into training a therapy dog, the certification required, and how Therapy dogs differ from Service Dogs. Anyone interested in having Judi and her canine "magicians" visit or even how to get involved themselves can email Judi at [email protected], 717 -464-6729.

Host: Bill Adams Description: Hosted by Bill Adams, the Willow Valley Team Member Education Fund has awarded more than $1 million to further Team Members' educational goals since its inception in 2008. Bill Adams talks about the Education Fund and interviews two of the forty-seven scholarship winners. Scholarship recipients Jenna Devinny and Kunyu Pan discuss their education and career goals made possible by the fund.

Host: Ray Loewe Guest: Cori Steiner Description: Ray Loewe interviews Social Worker Ms. Cori Steiner, Director of Resident Services at Willow Valley. She leads a team of four Social Workers who help Independent Living residents. In this podcast, Cori tells us what her team of Social Workers does to help residents transition smoothly to different levels of care. She also informs us about the Social Work Education Series of presentations coming soon to Willow Valley residents. These presentations include information about legal, insurance, and emergency room issues. Please listen to this important and informative podcast.

Host: Bill Adams Guest: Betty Price Description: Bill Adams interviewed Ms. Betty Price, a member of the Willow Valley Board of Directors, in order to introduce her to Podcast Club listeners. Ms. Price, a retired Air Force colonel, was born in Northern Virginia, and performed with the singing group Up With People during college. She joined the U.S. Air Force after college and worked to plan for the arrival of women cadets at the Air Force Academy. Later, she worked in Air Force Intelligence. Please listen to the story of a very interesting Board member and Willow Valley resident.

Host: Candace O'Donnell Guests: Dottie Giersch, Christine Johnson Description: Do you like to waltz, tango, clog or line-dance? You can do them all in the Willow Valley Dance Club. Residents Dottie Giersch and Christine Johnson talked to Candace O’Donnell about when, how, and why these dance classes were formed. Christine and Dottie shared the similarities and differences between each type of dance, and why learning how to change weight on both feet is essential to each. The overall message of this podcast: Get out there and dance, everybody! It's FUN!

Host: Jim Comey Guests: Writer's Group Description: Potpourri is defined as a mix of dried petals and spices in a small sack that adds fragrance. It can also be a mixture of things, especially a musical or literary medley. Our four guest writers present a medley of six original poems, as well the inspiration for them. Their poems are a delightful mixture of sharp wit, deep emotion, maternal whimsy, and unexpected imagery

Host: Don Helin Guest: Corey Baughman Description: As many of us age, balance becomes more and more of a challenge. Fortunately, Willow Valley conducts balance classes run by highly trained fitness trainers. These six-week classes are designed to help residents achieve a better balance. Sue O’Neill and Don Helin both signed up for one of the classes under the tutelage of Fitness Trainer Corey Baughman. These six weeks turned out to be very helpful for Sue, Don, and the other residents in the class. Enjoy hearing their stories.

Host: Carol MacAllister Guest: Ann Willets, Dale Johnson & Tom Gehr Description: Discover the charm of Lancaster County and Lancaster City through the eyes of esteemed long-time residents, tracing its rich history from 1730 to the present. Uncover the secrets behind its recognition as the best retirement destination in the country. This captivating region offers picturesque landscapes, friendly locals, diverse cultures, vibrant art, and a walkable downtown. Willow Valley adds the perfect touch to this remarkable experience. Get enchanted by the timeless allure of Lancaster County and Lancaster City.

Guest: Jeff Coon Host: Candace O'Donnell Description: In this installment, Willow Valley’s own actress Candace O’Donnell takes on the role of interviewer. Her special guest is her friend, Jeff Coon, the multi-talented actor, singer, and Annual Fund Director at the prestigious Fulton Theater. With his vast experience in the entertainment industry, Mr. Coon offers intriguing behind-the-scenes revelations about the inner workings of the Fulton Theater. Moreover, he treats the audience to a delightful sneak peek of the upcoming season, promising an unforgettable theatrical experience for all.

Host: Ray Loewe Guest: Dr. Terry Webb, Ph.D. Description: Dr. Terry Webb is a 90-year-old resident of Willow Valley, who has had long experience counseling in the area of Substance Use Disorder. She has written many books on the subject, and discusses her counseling career in this podcast. Dr. Webb invites listeners to telephone her at 717 464-0962 for a free confidential conversation, and invites listeners to visit her web page at [email protected]

Host: Candace O'Donnell Guest: Lynn Andrews & Tom Latus Description: In this episode, we shine a spotlight on the LGBTQ+ group at Willow Valley, a community dedicated to fostering diversity and creating an environment that embraces everyone. This group, initiated with the assistance of Willow Valley Communities, plays a crucial role in advocating for inclusiveness while also offering understanding and support to family members of individuals belonging to these demographic groups.

Guest: Tom Wright Host: Dale Johnson Description: In celebration of National Ice Cream month, we had the pleasure of interviewing resident Tom Wright. With a remarkable career spanning over three decades, Tom concluded his journey as a Vice President at Turkey Hill. While reminiscing about his professional path, Tom also took the time to enlighten us about the intricate process of ice cream production. Furthermore, he shared fascinating tidbits about this beloved frozen treat, and naturally, we delved into a delightful discussion about our preferred ice cream destinations near Willow Valley.

Host: Ray Loewe Guest: Ellen Haas Description: Podcast sound engineer Ellen Haas discusses her experience with the world of sound. Sound is all around us, but many don't have any idea of the part that sound plays in our lives. Ray Loewe hosts an interesting discussion on the important sounds in our lives, and what they mean to us.

Host: Don Helin Guest: Susan Culbertson Description: Susan Culbertson is a seven-year-old girl when this Podcast opens. She has just learned her father Captain Gene Culbertson was shot down in Korea and is Missing in Action. We follow Susan through the years as she tried to gain more information on her dad while dealing with the pain of his being a MIA.

Host: Ray Loewe Guests: Camp Willow Green Group Our Camp Willow youngsters and camp counselors are interviewed. We find out where they are from and they answer a very interesting question…..What would be a question you would like to ask your grandparents?

Host: Ray Loewe Guests: Camp Willow Yellow Group Our Camp Willow youngsters and camp counselors are interviewed. We find out where they are from and they answer a very interesting question…..What would be a question you would like to ask your grandparents?

Host: Ray Loewe Guests: Camp Willow Orange Group Our Camp Willow youngsters and camp counselors are interviewed. We find out where they are from and they answer a very interesting question…..What would be a question you would like to ask your grandparents?

Host: Dale Johnson Guests: Betty Schweitzer, Jessie Styers, Ms. Flora and Harling, Ms. Nancy and Xailia. Description: In this episode, we shine a spotlight on the Willow Valley pen pal program, a resident-led initiative that began 15 years ago. Join us as we delve into the program's objectives and its operational framework, featuring insights from Betty Schweitzer, the coordinator for Willow Valley residents, and Jessie Styers, the coordinator for teachers and students of Burrows Elementary school in Lancaster City. Furthermore, we engage with two pairs of pen pals, allowing us to explore the personal connections formed between students and residents within this heartwarming program.

Host: Don Helin Guests: The Writer's Group: Jane Armstrong, Tillie Casler, and Lynne Heins Description: Our guests read three different short fiction stories. Jane Armstrong reads a spooky Halloween story, with Beelzebub as a surprise character. Tillie Casler narrates a schoolday story, asking whether anything good can come from being sent to the principal's office. And Lynne Heins reads a story about a disturbing encounter with an old college friend.

Guest: Joel Schock Host: Carol MacAllister Description: In a conversation, Joel Schock, the grounds manager at Willow Valley, discusses the recent development of a green master plan for the community, made possible through a grant. He emphasizes the importance of striking a harmonious balance between the aesthetic appeal of the grounds and their sustainability, as Willow Valley aims to be more conscientious stewards of the environment. Joel also shares insights into his personal journey, recalling how his passion for plants and trees blossomed from an early age.

E61: Host: Candace O'Donnell, Guest: Bill Longnecker. Description: Bill Longnecker, a resident of Willow Valley, shares his love for Civil War reenactments while offering intriguing perspectives on the history of the era. Mr. Longnecker, a Captain in the 3rd US Infantry Regiment Company B, (a Union Forces Soldier), talks about what happens in a Civil War battlefield reenactment, the background and history of the Civil War, and advances in medical science in this war. Come listen to a fascinating podcast!

Bonnie Hillman ShayMariposa Photo Organizing.comwww.MariposaPhotoOrganizing.com847-494-0636Bonnie@MariposaPhotoOrganizing.com Alexandra KoyWebsite: https://lightenarrangements.com/Phone Number: (312) 373-0847

Host: Don Helin Guest: Bill Davis Description: In today's interview, we have Bill Davis, a Willow Valley resident and purple heart recipient. Bill shares his captivating firsthand account as a participant in the historic June 6th invasion of Normandy, also known as D-Day.

Host: Bill Adams Guest: Barry Sipe In this episode, we delve into the expertise and compassion of Barry Sipe, the resident life and wellness coach at Willow Valley. He sheds light on his invaluable role in supporting new residents as they embark on their journey toward a fulfilling life within the vibrant Willow Valley Communities. Through our conversation, Barry's exceptional skills and genuine care for others become evident, showcasing him as the ideal individual to guide and empower newcomers in seamlessly transitioning to their new home and fostering a positive sense of belonging within the community.

Host: Dale Johnson Guest: Jen Rynier Team member Jen Rynier provides a comprehensive rundown of the various offerings available at the Cultural Center. This includes scores for lectures, classes, physical fitness and wellness activities, special events, and concerts. Additionally, she offers an insider's perspective on the production of the Renaissance Magazine and the planning and coordination of our exceptional evening concert series.

Host: Candace O'Donnell Guest: Bill Hawes Description: In this segment, Bill Hawes, the director of the Willow Valley Chorale, reflects on his career in directing chorales and musicals. Additionally, he offers a sneak peek into the upcoming 20th-anniversary Chorale presentation, scheduled for this May. Bill also sheds light on the behind-the-scenes efforts involved in organizing a chorale performance.

Host: Tina Anderson Guests: Chuck Powers & Elaine Eichner Description: In this episode, George Burns and Gracie Allen are conversing with Alexa and discussing Mother's Day plans at Willow Valley.

Host: Carol MacAllister Guest: Carol Still During our conversation with Carol Still, a tap dance teacher and resident, we delve into her enduring passion for dance and teaching. With a remarkable 18-year tenure teaching tap dancing at Willow Valley Communities, Carol shares details about her diverse range of classes, her memorable students from years past, and what continues to drive her love for teaching and tap dancing. Alongside Carol is Jean Mitchell, one of her current students, who shares a valuable perspective on Carol's teaching style and impact from a student's viewpoint.

Host: Don Helin Guest: Jean Mitchell, Dick Narvett & Jim Comey Description: We welcomed three members of the Willow Valley Writers Group who each discussed his/her memoir and the Tipping Point for their story (the narrative event that launched the main action). We hope this may help our listeners begin their own memoirs. Please feel free to contact resident Don Helin with any questions.

Host: Candace O'Donnell Guest: Linda Dobbin Our guest Linda Dobbin was the force behind designing and building a labyrinth at the Manor Courtyard at Willow Valley Communities. A labyrinth is made of a group of paths, often curved, with a singular path leading to a center. Linda also tells us some of the history and mystery of the labyrinth and how it is used. Labyrinths were designed and used in the ancient world, and some are at least 4000 years old. She also tells us how to walk a labyrinth, and how to get the most out of a labyrinth walk.

Host: Bill Adams Guest: Kristen Loose Description: In today's podcast interview, Kristen Loose, VP of Healthcare Operations, discusses her role in helping design innovative programs for the upcoming Memory Care Center. Some of these programs have already been initiated in our existing facilities, and Ms. Loose also explores the use of technology to enhance operations. Additionally, the estimated opening date of the Memory Care Center is addressed.