Despite cold temperatures and snow-covered streets, Beaumont residents found ways to enjoy winter - indoors and out. We were cheering on the Eagles football team to Super Bowl victory, celebrating the Organ renovation, watching the Oscar-nominated films, and enjoying musical performances. Some even dared to sled down the hill on a snowy afternoon! Along with our special dining delights and everyday goings-on, we find there are plenty of reasons to just stay here.
New Years Eve Celebration
Champagne welcome for Don and Jacqueline Mykytiuk.
Residents dine in the Beaumont Room.
Ladies take to the floor to celebrate.
Zack Margolis makes dumplings with Health Center residents to celebrate Chinese New Year.(photo by Bernadette Bevilacqua)
Richard Kihlstrom and Ann Thompson indulge at the chocolate tower for Valentine's Day. The Fitness Center kept us moving and heart-healthy.
Seafood and Ice Sculpture Display
David Randolph and Bunny Solomon enjoy a dance. February Celebrations
Resident Holiday Party
Staff Holiday Party
Decorating Cookies and Trimming Trees
Marjorie Billington and Nell Mecray.
Santa’s Dancing Team
The staff fills the Beaumont Room to celebrate.
Marlynne Clothier and Wistar Morris brighten the party.
Maria Villanueva, Martha Aviles, and Susanti Zuhri enjoy the afternoon.
Christmas sweater competitor Kristin Szoke.
Peggy Campolo, with Felicia, Eileen Ware and Harriette Goldenberg enjoy the buffet.
Staff make the Holiday Dinner fun and delicious.
Brad Kling happily fills his plate.
Snowflake Festival - The Austin Family Traditions
Photos by Jane Ruffin
Residents were welcomed in early December to Liseter Hall for an afternoon with the Austin family to enjoy their home and their holiday traditions. We were met at the local train stations and escorted to the mansion by staff. The ladies were met by Rebecca Austin (DeeDee Ballard), oldest daughter, who gave us each a holly sprig as a wish for good health in the next year. The gentlemen followed the Butler (Richard Stephens) into the Billiard Room where topics of the day were discussed and smoking was allowed. In the guest dining room, Mrs. Austin’s tradition of baking her own holiday treats was presented by her pastry assistants (Phil and Lisa Ciarrocchi) on a table full of cookies, nuggets, biscotti, sweets, and fruits. In the family parlor and music room, youngest daughter Anna (Dottie Clapham) shared
their gift of knitted stockings and special stuffers for all the staff and their children and the aroma of lavender grown in the estate garden. Mrs. Austin herself (Linda Madara) greeted us in the family dining room where snowflake ornaments were created for hanging on the Christmas tree. And as a special greeting Mr. Austin (Richard Lange) pulled out all the stops on the magnificent Aeolian organ with his Joy to the World hymn for all to join in singing. House maids (Mary Huff, Cathy Leahy, Paige Welby, Lauren Scott, Norma Fabian, Louise Hughes, Audrey Walsh, Sherrill Kling) assured that all the guests were welcomed and properly fed before their trip back home. Our afternoon was not just a walk through Liseter Hall, it was also the opportunity to share the Austin tradition of giving to family, friends, and staff.
Austin Family
Sounds of Music in the Winter
Opera singers, a string quartet, an accordion & soprano duo, a college acapella group, the Austin organ, and our own folk singers and jazz bands have filled our mansion with music to keep us warm through these snowy months. “Baby, it’s cold outside…”
Beaumont chorus directed by our new conductor, Jason Straub.
Skyy Brooks, soloist, with musicians from Chester Children's Choir
Christmas Carolers and residents sing before the Holiday Dinner.
Richard Lange and Ann Baruch perform under Kevin Chun’s watchful eye.
Residents hear the story of Kevin’s love for, and restoration of, the Austin Organ.
Childrens’ Choir brought smiles during the holiday season.
Kevin Chun brings the organ to life again.
Our own Peter Godfrey, a 1947 alumni, joins the wildly entertaining Harvard Krokodiloes.
Wynlyn Jazz Ensemble warms an afternoon with love-ly jazz tunes.
Mexican Art Collection of Dee Welge
Residents had the chance to enjoy the crafts of Mexico when Dee Welge shared some of her collection in the Beaumont Room this winter. When she attended Skidmore College, Dee had received a scholarship for a semester abroad to study Spanish. Through her host family in Cuernavaca, she studied, traveled, and learned about Mexican culture, arts, and literature, but could only afford the purchase of an embroidered huipil (blouse) she still displays. Over the years with many return visits to Mexico, Dee has collected colorful wood carvings unique to Oaxacan culture - a coyote, snake, armadillo, and black angel were on display. Ceramics and fabrics add texture and beauty. She has most recently added a pair of Panamanian mola style boots, made from plant-based materials designed with layers of cut-out shapes. Although
the purchase was made at The Philadelphia Flower Show from a Colombian born artist, the colors and spirit of the Central American indigenous cultures are part of Dee’s love for, and memories of, Mexico.
Featured Canine Resident - Peaches Wilson
Peaches, daughter of Beverly, is like the little blue box from Tiffany’s - small but precious. Found wandering the streets of Philadelphia 14 years ago, this tiny matted furball, alive with fleas and weighing all of 5 pounds, was taken to the SPCA, given TLC and a spa treatment, and turned out to be a lovely little terrier mix ready for a forever home.
As luck would have it, Beverly strolled by her local pet store which featured Peaches as its weekly rescue dog for adoption. Seeing “the doggie in the window,” Beverly was smitten and home they went.
Winter Scenes
Peaches knows she hit the lottery leaving life on the streets. She lives in a lovely Middle Road villa, eats well, sleeps in her mother’s bed, or on the sofa, or either of two other beds! She loves visitors, traveling, and her “other mother” Kaki Hoover. Should you stop by and knock on the front door, Peaches will bark fiercely as she considers herself a mighty guard dog. Beverly hasn’t the heart to tell her that at 9 pounds she is not exactly a threat.
Geranium Alley assures sunshine and flowers blooming through the winter.
Dottie Clapham and Helen Vinick sledding down Mansion Hill. (Photo by Catherine Herrmann)
Our hard-working Grounds team had plenty to do this winter.
Staff Appreciation
Food & Beverage Awards
Betty Phelps Retirement
For the past five years, Zack Margolis, Director of Food and Beverage, has recognized his team members who have made a special impact and shown superior performance during the year in putting together not just the special events that make a Beaumont party, but also the everyday breakfasts, lunches, and dinners for our community. Individuals are selected by a vote of their colleagues as an opportunity to recognize each other and create an environment of support and care. The 2025 awards have been presented to:
Manager/Supervisor of the Year:
Ernest Jimenez, Assistant Dining Room Manager
F&B Employee of the Year:
Monique McDonald, Dining Room Server
Golden Pineapple Award (Dietary):
Scott Thompson, Aide
Gold Frying Pan Award (Culinary):
Anthony Birch, Cook 1 (Bistro & Grille)
Silver Service Award (Dining):
Najee Hector, Dining Room Server (not pictured)
Congratulations and many thanks from all of us! (And ask Zack for a special look at the Beaumont Dining Wall of Fame. The elegant plaques were made by Doc Snyder in the woodworking studio a few years ago.)
In Memory of David Tyler
You will remember Betty for her service to us all in Personal Care and the Health Center. During her 28 years at Beaumont, Betty was not only the “go-to” person at the front desk, she was also behind the scenes making sure all the charts were documented and up-to-date in the Medical Records room. We wish Betty all the best in her new retirement years.
Patty
Valenza Retirement
Who could miss Patty’s smile and greeting at the Wellness Center? You could always count on her to answer your call, get you an appointment, and get you checked in and out, promptly. Patty was at Beaumont for 10 years and is now off to a new home in Portugal. What a great retirement and our best to you, Patty!
Howard Barron Retirement
Howard was always visible at Beaumont. You could find him cleaning the carpets, checking inventory, and in most cases, prepping rooms in the Health Center. He was dedicated to his Housekeeping position and cared about his co-workers, residents and their families. After 15 years of service, Howard deserves all our wishes in his new retirement endeavors.
We pay tribute to David Tyler, a beloved member of the Beaumont family for 16 years. In the Housekeeping Department, David always greeted you with a smile. No matter what the task, he did it willingly and with good humor. He would proactively check in with all the departments when he started his shift to see if they needed assistance. Beaumont offers sincerest condolences to his wife and family.
Welcome Tamara Hoffmann
Whisked out of Chicago within months of her birth, Tamara Hoffman became a California girl living in Los Angeles for over 80 years. She body surfed at Will Rogers State Park Beach, snow skied at Mammoth Mountain, raced sail boats around Catalina Island, and danced to the songs of The Beach Boys. She brings that west coast vibe to Beaumont as she has moved east to be with her daughter, son-in-law and two grandsons who live in Wynnewood.
Tamara received her BA degree in Sociology and Social Studies from UCLA. Her first job was teaching high school in the LA area where, with her husband, a rocket scientist in the aviation industry, they started a privately owned commuter bus service that ultimately became the largest in the US. With that success behind her, and while raising her two children, she returned to teaching at the very same high school in LA from which she had graduated. For 32 years, she taught AP History, Government, Economics, and Sociology. She enjoyed trips with the students to Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and Valley Forge National Park, and still speaks of how these students enriched her life and remember her even today.
Welcome Ralph Johanson and Anne Barker
A friendship from 60 years ago has brought Ralph Johanson and Anne Barker to our Beaumont community. Ralph was raised in the Boston area, graduated from Yale University, and attended Columbia Law School where he met George Barker and his wife Anne. Days and evenings of lively talk and fun times in New York cemented years of contact between the men and their wives, even though Ralph married and moved onto a career and life in international and corporate law, and George and Anne settled in Columbia, Maryland.
Ralph’s legal career started with a law firm in New York City, but he soon joined the International Nickel Company working mainly on a project in Indonesia with Japanese partners. Loving the international and corporate work, he later joined Mobil Oil Company and, for over 25 years, he handled international joint ventures and transactions, with a particular focus on Saudi Arabia, corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions. He and his wife travelled around the world with homes in New York City, Washington, D.C., and the Poconos.
Through this time, Anne graduated from Antioch College and, while raising three children, returned to school at Johns Hopkins University, earning a degree in Nursing. She worked for many years serving the underprivileged communities in and around Baltimore, where she was born and raised.
With the summer months always a vacation, Tamara travelled the world and became dedicated to the collection of ethnic art. She served on the Ethnic Art Council and was active in The Fowler Museum, The Gene Autry Museum of Native American Art, and The Los Angeles County Museum of Art. She supports scholarships at UCLA, had season tickets to all the football games, and still roots for the men and women’s basketball teams.
Moving here in November, Tamara brings with her a unique collection of ethnic art and her 17-year-old Maltipoo, Charlie. Although she misses the sunshine and feels like she is “hibernating” out here, Tamara is joining in our activities, meeting neighbors, spending special time with her family, and getting to know this side of the continent. Welcome Tamara.
Ralph’s wife died, as did Anne’s husband, and they have now shared seven years together as partners. After retiring from Mobil, Ralph volunteered in a retired executive organization (SCORE) assisting entrepreneurs and served on the Board of the Washington Institute of Foreign Affairs. Anne remained active in her community in artsrelated activities and in public health service.
They selected Beaumont to be close to Anne’s younger daughter and her family who live in Gladwyne. Ralph has already joined the chorus and he and Anne are meeting other residents each day and learning how interesting our community is. And what a story of friendship we will learn from them. Welcome to Beaumont.
Tamara Hoffmann
Ralph Johanson
Anne Barker
PRESIDENT’S CORNER
by Joe Peduzzi
Planned for 2026, The Wellness Center will undergo a transformative renovation. The remodeled space will boast a larger physician office area, expanded therapy department, classroom and office suites, and modern beauty and barber services.
The physician office area will be significantly enlarged and designed with privacy and comfort in mind. Three exam rooms will assure a confidential and relaxed environment for one-on-one consultation and care. Both for staff and patients, and whether for routine check-ups or specialized care, there will be more efficient use of space, more privacy and more comfort.
The therapy department - physical, occupational, and speech - will see substantial growth in space and resources. There will be larger treatment areas and the latest therapeutic equipment. Better patient flow and more space for personalized care, whether for post-injury recovery, chronic pain management, or
A Beaumont Moment
In Memoriam
Priscilla macNeal
December 15, 2024
Pierce archer
December 29, 2024
laura bulliTT
January 6, 2025
margareT (Peggy)
WolcoTT
January 23, 2025
mary mcadoo
February 4, 2025
doroThy haWke
February 5, 2025
PhiliP yediNsky
February 16, 2025
aNNe deardeN
February 25,2025
The Beaumont Community extends deepest sympathy to their families and friends.
overall wellness, will be the focus. It is designed to be calm, to aid healing, and to foster a sense of well-being.
A state-of-the-art classroom is being added and designed for workshops, seminars, and courses aimed to improve health literacy and wellness skills. Whether a nutrition workshop or stress management seminar, the classroom will have all the latest technology needed to enhance the learning experience.
An interdisciplinary office suite is being added. This innovative design will promote communication among the healthcare professional team itself and ensure residents receive comprehensive and coordinated care for better health and well-being.
A modern beauty and barber shop will be in a sleek new space that is luxurious, calm, and rejuvenating. Newly designed spacious and accessible public restrooms will be added.
Whether a resident is seeking medical care, rehabilitation services, educational opportunities, or simply a place to unwind and look your best, the Wellness Center will be better equipped than ever to meet those needs and fulfill its mission to enhance the well-being of everyone who walks through the doors.
BEAUMONT NEWS
The Beaumont News is published by the residents and staff of the Beaumont Retirement Community, 601 N. Ithan Avenue, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Editor Catherine Wylonis
Photo Editor Linda Madara
Quality Control
Production
Cathy Leahy
Articus, Ltd.
Contributing Writers DeeDee Ballard, Mary Caulder, Linda Madara, Zack Margolis
Photographs by Linda Madara, Jane Ruffin, Beverly Wilson, Catherine Herrmann, Bernadette Bevilacqua
And they got back up the hill….!
Eagles Win the Superbowl - Beaumont Shares the Joy
After several disappointing seasons, a slow start, and some worrisome injuries, THE PHILADELPHIA EAGLES defied the odds and won Super Bowl LIX, beating the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22. Beaumont Residents came out to a Pep Rally and a Watch party. Everyone dressed in their favorite player jerseys and wore the Green. The Eagle (Audrey Walsh) was flying. The Fralinger String Band provided music and color and excitement. The Cheesesteak Trolley arrived to serve our favorite Philly food. Here’s the fun we had.
