DECEMBER 2023
Founders’ Day celebrates PPH, honors residents and staff The Philadelphia Protestant Home (PPH) held its Founders’ Day ceremony on Wednesday, Nov. 21 in the Social Hall. The annual event affirms the PPH mission to provide a caring senior living community that affords its residents the opportunity to achieve their highest possible quality of life. It honors the vision of a group of German ministers, who, in collaboration with members of the community, set forth to accomplish something they all strongly believed in — caring for aging parishioners. This vision resulted in a vibrant senior living community and the founding of PPH as we know it today.
Residents of the Year
Each year during Founders’ Day, PPH recognizes a “Resident of the Year” in each level of care (Independent Living, Personal Care and Pathways). PPH Vice President of Health Services Jennifer Honeyford annouced Emil Scharer as the Reggie and Betty Beauchamp IL Resident of the Year.
In This Issue...
“Emil has a special ability to make others feel appreciated and engaged,” said Jennifer, who noted that Emil volunteers in various areas throughout the community. Jennifer also spoke on Emil’s commitment to recognizing PPH employees through the Guardian Angel program, showing his deep appreciation for the compassion and quality care many employees gave to his late wife, Patricia. He has continued the tradition in honor of Patricia by recognizing those whose roles consist of much work behind the scenes. Aiyana Carter-Thomson of Social Services announced Marie Lohwasser as the Gertrude Corley Personal Care Resident of the Year. “Marie volunteers in Scoops, enjoys many activities and always encourages others to join in,” Aiyana said. “She greets new residents, makes everyone feel welcome and always has a positive attitude.” Pathways Manager Kyle Ozimkiewicz announced Marianne Vescovich as the Carmela Heine Skilled >>>Continued on page 6
Independent Living Resident of the Year Emil Scharer with family.
Personal Care Resident of the Year Marie Lohwasser with family.
Pathways Resident of the Year Marianne Vescovich with family.
• PPH welcomes new staff • Schea Scholarship recipients • PPH walks for Alzheimer’s 6401 Martins Mill Road, Philadelphia PA • www.PPHFamily.org • 215.697.8000 Facebook.com/ThePhiladelphiaProtestantHome
Family Focus PPH welcomes two new staff members, one returning face Marianna is a graduate of the University of Scranton and obtained her Master of Arts degree from Rider University. Marianna has commented on the “warm welcome” she has received from so many staff members and residents, and looks forward to meeting everyone throughout the PPH family. “My first impression is the warm atmosphere of caring and support and treating residents like family, which is important to me. Family first. PPH puts people first,” she said. When not at PPH, Marianna enjoys spending time with her family and friends. Reading, baking, taking walks, and going “down the shore” are some of her interests. Marianna also enjoys watching movies and listening to music. And who could forget —watching the Phillies and Eagles and rooting them on is always good for the soul! Marianna can be reached at 215-697-8508 or mcalabrese@pphfamily.org.
Director of Donor Development
In early November, PPH warmly welcomed Marianna Calabrese to the Development Department as Director of Donor Development. Marianna, having served in health care for over 30 years in the fields of community health, engagement, and outreach, has worked with employees, the community, and donors. She is looking forward to connecting with residents and working collaboratively with senior leadership, the Board Marianna of Directors, and our employees. Calabrese Marianna’s responsibilities will include donor relations and philanthropy strategies to increase contributions in support of PPH. Her focus will include the Benevolent Care Fund, the Eberhard and Helen Schea Endowment Fund, Guardian Angels, as well as tribute, employee and honorary giving.
overseeing 17 kitchens which consisted of skilled nursing, independent living, and asPPH welcomed a new Executive Chef in sisted living. late October, Chef Rashaad Dandridge. Chef Rashaad and his twin brother run Rashaad attended culinary school in New a catering company and teach cooking York and graduated with a degree in culinary classes for a local nonprofit organization. arts. After culinary school, he broadened his He is a proud and doting father of a beautiexperience by joining the American Culinary ful two-year old daughter. Foundation (ACF) and becoming a Certified Chef Rashaad When asked about his new role at PPH, Executive Chef. His extensive culinary expeDandridge Chef Rashaad shared, “Thank you for riences include upscale hotels, family-owned welcoming me into your home and this community. restaurant concepts, movie theaters and corporate I’m excited to be here and look forward to connecting dining. Chef Rashaad most recently worked in health with everyone in the dining room.” care where he served as the Regional Executive Chef
Executive Chef
Mike will create content for REACH and PPH's social media channels, and write for PPH's blog page. You'll likely find him around campus taking photos and videos during events and activities. “It's a pleasure to be back! It's great to see familiar faces [without masks], and meet new residents and staff,” he said. For any content recommendations or REACH submission ideas, please contact Mike at 215-697-8194 or mberman@pphfamily.org.
Communications Specialist PPH is excited to welcome back Mike Berman to the Communications Specialist position. Mike held the postion at PPH from December 2019 to March 2022. While away from PPH, Mike Mike Berman worked at a public relations and marketing firm, and is looking forward to bringing the experience he gained in PR and social media campaigns to this role.
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PPH President & CEO John Dubyk announces resignation John Dubyk announced his resignation as PPH’s President & CEO on Oct. 31. John will continue to serve in the role until Wednesday, Jan. 17 and is working in partnership with PPH’s Board of Directors to develop a smooth transition plan. Updates on a transition plan will be shared with residents, residentfamily members and PPH staff as
they become available. “PPH has always been special to me. I have made many friends and have many fond memories over the years. I want to personally thank all the staff, the Board of Directors, residents, and resident-family members for your support, especially these last few challenging years during the COVID-19 pandemic,” John said.
John became PPH’s President & CEO in July 2020. He held PPH’s Controller position from 1989 to 1995, returning in 2017 as PPH’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO). After his departure, John will begin serving as a CFO at another local senior living community. For more information and a farewell to John, please see the January issue of REACH.
Congratulations to the 2023 Schea Scholarship recipients Congratulations to the four recipients of the 2023 Eberhard and Helen Schea Endowment Fund for Healthcare Education Scholarship. This year’s recipients are: Shyla Pastore, a recreation therapist in Chapters; and Jeremiah Destin, Brigid Hurst and Natgeene Joachim of Dining Services.
The Schea Scholarship is named after Eberhard and Helen Schea. Shyla attends Lincoln Technical Institute and is enrolled in a nighttime, two-year LPN program. Jeremiah attends Gwynedd Mercy University and is planning to study occupational therapy. Brigid attends Saint Joseph’s University’s Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and is studying to obtain her Doc-
tor of Pharmacy degree. Natgeene attends Indiana University of Pennsylvania and is studying Speech Pathology. The Eberhard and Helen Schea Endowment Fund for Healthcare Education was established in 2007 to support continuing health care education programs, which promotes the overall well-being of PPH residents and staff. The fund is named in honor of longtime PPH supporters, donors, and residents, Mr. Eberhard “Ebbie” and Mrs. Helen Schea. Ebbie was the manager of the PPH Board of Pensions and an emeritus member of the PPH Board of Directors, while Helen was a member of the PPH Auxiliary. The Scheas’ children, Fred Schea and his wife, Kathleen; and the late Caroline Schea Lloyd and her husband, Jim, established the endowment to honor their parents’ memory and continue the family tradition of generosity. Winners are chosen based on financial need, academic merit and a 500-word essay on how the funds will be used to advance their
(Pictured clockwise from top left) Shyla Pastore (Recreation Therapist), Jeremiah Destin (Dining Services), Natgeene Joachim (Dining Services), and Brigid Hurst (Dining Services)
careers in healthcare and senior services. Staff members can visit the Human Resources office to pick up a Schea Scholarship application.
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Hernando’s Hideaway By Maryann Volk Lawndale Manor resident Did you ever feel like you just wanted to get out of your space, wished you had someone to talk to, would like some small thing to do or don't know where to take garments to be adjusted? Well, there is a place like that right here at PPH — the Crafts Room! It is located on the second floor Commons Building right next to the Activities Room and diagonal from the Fellowship Room. During the course of any week there are about 15 volunteers laughing, working, talking or just visiting. Craft room activities include embroidering, knitting, crocheting, quilt making and plastic canvas projects. Residents and volunteers create decorations for all holidays and special events. Mondays' core group of volunteers includes Anna Morell, Alpha resident, with 20 years of experience in jewelry-making, jewelry repair and other crafts. In addition, Anna provides watch repair and battery replacements. Mondays also find Anne Marie Steinhofer (a trained tailor) at our new industrial sewing machine, creating and mending anything that needs to be sewn. Anne Marie also creates small decorative quilts and small pillows. Margaret Gentles, Lawndale resident, another key Monday volunteer, has 20 years of service in the Crafts Room. Margaret is affectionately referred to as “Our Girl Friday,” who is willing to do anything that is needed to keep activities running smoothly. Both Margaret and Anne Marie make our quilts. Our new volunteer, Anne Marie Theisen, comes in on Mondays and
Stop by the Crafts Room Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays or Saturdays to join in on activities, visit or just hang out at Hernando's Hideaway!
Tuesdays, creating colorful crocheted items. Residents Lucille Hite and Mary Anne Crowley lend their talents on Mondays. We also thank the group's original leader, June Wodowski, for her many years of service. June is now a resident in Personal Care. Two glass cases, located in the Esplanade, offer a small sampling of crafts that are made in the craft room. Everything is for sale, with proceeds going to Benevolent Care, which helps residents remain at PPH when their own resources have been depleted. Tuesdays find a group of happy friends, sharing laughs and stories as they work on crocheting and knitting projects. Some you may already know: Betty Bedford, Dolly Lafferty, Isabel Edwards, Marianne Vescovich, Ruth Ann Feil and Terry Dougherty. They share complimentary lunches together and often bring homemade treats. These talented crafters regularly produce baby blankets, hats, and sweater ensembles. They also create lap covers and Afghans for the elderly and infirmed. Thursdays' evening group of volunteers makes the famous PPH
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butterflies. Gratitude goes out to to Jean Blood, Carol Evans, Marie Tucci, Ronnie Quinn, Peg Slusarczyk and Albina Kriger. Barbara Mylod joins this group and creates our beautiful wreaths. Then there is the Saturday crew composed of Jean Blood, Cathy Bluett, Angela Emanuele, Barbara Mylod, Priscilla Henry and Maryanne Gillespie. Chaplain Linda Lewis also joins the group on Saturdays. Their activities are of a different nature. In recent years, physicians and counselors have been suggesting that to keep calm and deal with stress, adult coloring has calming results. Our Saturday group does more than coloring: they communicate, share life stories, and build community. In addition to the work they do, these talented women share in creating decorations for various holidays and special events. You may have missed a lot of this because, like Hernando's Hideaway, we are off the beaten track. At certain times, many other volunteers wander in when they find time. You are welcome to visit at any time to assist or just hang out. I'll meet you there!
PPH walks for Alzheimer's Awareness November is Alzheimer's Awareness Month, a time to heighten awareness about Alzheimer’s disease. Many PPH staff and residents participated in Walks to End Alzheimer's (on and off campus) in support of the more than 6.2 million Americans living with the disease.
Discussions and reflections with the PPH Men’s Group PPH's Men's Group meets on the third Friday of each month at 11 a.m. in the Learning Center. For November, the group discussed world events, entertainment, technology, sports and shared
memories of their personal lives during the 1990s. If you missed November's meeting, feel free to
Unheralded Heroes
attend December's (12/15, 11 a.m.), which will be a continuation of the '90s discussion.
Marie M. Daly (April 16, 1921 – Oct. 28, 2003) Marie Daly grew up reading a lot about scientists and their achievements, fostering her love of science from a young age. After graduating college and obtaining a Master’s degree at New York University, she enrolled in a PhD program at Columbia University, where she was the first African American to receive a PhD in Chemistry. Daly worked on a lot of different important research areas and one of them was the understanding of high cholesterol. She found a strong correlation between high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels in the blood, and clogged arteries, which was a groundbreaking discovery at that time. This discovery served as a foundation for future research into the causes of Atherosclerosis and other high blood pressurerelated diseases. Daly also worked on characterizing histones, a type of protein that bundles our DNA into tiny packs of coils forming chromosomes in our cells. However, back in the 1950s, nobody really knew what histones were or what they were made of. Her work contributed to our basic understanding of histones and the organization of our DNA.
by PPH resident Velma N'Jai Dr. Gladys West (Oct. 27, 1930 –) Dr. West was the daughter of black sharecroppers and worked the fields as a child. She knew education was her way to a different life, so through hard work, she excelled and received a scholarship to Virginia State College. She earned an undergraduate degree in mathematics and continued on to pursue a Master’s degree. In 1956, she began her career at the US Naval Weapons Laboratory. Her role was to collect and process data from satellites, which she used to help pinpoint their exact locations in space of GPS. This experience as a “human computer” helped Dr. West lay the foundation for modern technology. Today, GPS is used constantly, but we don’t really think about what it is or how it works. The United States relies on a constellation of 31 satellites in Earth’s orbit, according to the FFA. They work in concert with ground stations that pinpoint the precise position of these satellites at any given time. Receivers are what we utilize (our phones, car infotainment systems, etc.) to access the GPS network.
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NEWS BRIEFS ★ COVID-19 protocols for visitors: Masks are no longer required for staff, residents, or visitors while on our campus, and employees are not required to wear masks when interacting with residents. Residents, employees, and visitors may continue wearing masks if they feel comfortable. Masks and PPE will still be required in some cases of isolation or if there is a significant concern for serious illness. Please advise your guests
to refrain from visiting if they feel sick or have been exposed to COVID-19. ★ Food Collection: The PPH Food Drive — a 2021 Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service Project — will continue indefinitely, as long as PPH’s neighbors are in need of food. Food will be collected the last week of the month, and then delivered the first day of the following month. There are two collection sites: the vending machine
Nursing Resident of the Year. “Marianne loves learning new things, and recently has taken an interest in football and baseball in order to join her neighbors for parties in the common areas,” said Kyle, noting that she always makes sure other residents are included in activities.
President’s Award
PPH also presents the President’s Award each year, which recognizes a staff member who demonstrates PPH’s core values and provides residents with quality care and exceptional customer service. The recipient is selected
★ Trips: Fees for trips are now added to each resident’s monthly bill (NO CASH). If you’d like to cancel, you must call the Business Office (ext. 8010) to have the trip fee removed. ★ TED Talks: See the December calendar. >>> Continued on page 7
PPH Auxiliary President Patricia Coyne presents an $8,000 check to PPH. From left to right, Director of Donor Development Marianna Calabrese, Patricia, President & CEO John Dubyk and VP of Marketing & Communications Shannon Grieb.
IL and PC Life Enrichment Activities Director Kathy Nucero with various family members after accepting the 2023 President’s Award. >>>Founders, continued from page 1
area, located near the Wellness Center, and in front of the Security office. For more information, call Tom Sexton at 8368.
from a pool that includes Guardian Angel nominations and Employee of the Month selections. This year’s recipient is longtime Life Enrichment staff member Kathy Nucero. “Kathy is a true team player. She works well with every department, always has a smile on her face and her laugh is contagious,” PPH President & CEO John Dubyk said. “No matter what, Kathy always puts her residents first.” Family members of all four award recipients were on hand to surprise and congratulate the winners.
PPH Auxiliary
The PPH Auxiliary — which consists of residents, staff and outside community members — supports Benevolent Care & staff/resident
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gratitude activities by promoting engagement and support of PPH’s mission. The Auxiliary presented an $8,000 check to PPH for Benevolent Care. Patricia Coyne, Auxiliary President, thanked members and volunteers for their support.
20+ Year Residents
Director of Community Relations Bill Conaway recognized PPH’s three 20+year residents: Hazel Peatman, 31 years; June Wodowski, 27 years; and Delores Clarkson, 23 years. “Through the years, you have witnessed the growth and transformation of our community. Your wisdom, resilience and positive outlook have been inspiring to all,” Bill said.
NEWS BRIEFS >>>continued from page 6 ★ Independent Living Residents Association: There is no Resident Association meeting for December. ★ PPH Auxiliary: The Auxiliary will hold its next meeting in the Social Hall on Tuesday, Dec. 12 at 11:30 a.m. and broadcast live on PPH TV channel 7. Membership in the PPH Auxiliary is open to PPH residents, staff, and community supporters (only $5 per year). Dating back to its origins as the PPH Ladies Aid Society in 1889, the Auxiliary continues its initiatives to support the heart of PPH’s fundraising mission, Benevolent Care, as well as supporting staff/resident gratitude activities. Contact Auxiliary President Patricia Coyne at cameo1200@gmail.com or 8403 to become a member or for more information. ★ Volunteer Opportunities: Our Volunteer Department is always looking for new volunteers. If you are interested in any volunteer opportunities, please contact Carol Cherrington at ext. 8027. ★ Calling all Veterans: It is important to PPH that we identify all veterans living in our community. We want to make sure you are receiving the meeting notices,
ceremonial invitations, and other veteran specific information. If you are new to the community and/or you have not completed the May 2021 veteran survey, please contact Bill Conaway at ext. 8031. ★ MLK Day of Service: Martin Luther King Jr’s birthday is known as and celebrated nationally as a Day of Service. The program committee planning the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Observance program is compiling a listing of the various services completed by residents of PPH on MLK Day of Service. In past years, many residents prepared meals, some cleaned vacant lots, others visited the sick and shut-ins and much more. Those interested in sharing past or planned MLK Day of Service activities, or speaking on the impact MLK made in his or her life are encouraged contact one of the persons listed below. Velma N’Jai – 8049 Selma Young – 8167 Evelyn Washington – 8315 Thank you for your participation and support. The MLK Jr. Day Observance will be held on Monday, Jan. 15, at 2 p.m. in the PPH Social Hall and will broadcast live on PPH TV
channel 7. Rebroadcasts: Jan. 20 and 27 at 10 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. on PPH TV channel 4.
Happy retirement!
PPH recognized Debbie Timmons, a laundry aide in the Environmental Services department, for 36 years of dedication and service as she heads into retirement! While Debbie is certainly looking forward to retirement, she says she'll miss the PPH residents and that she enjoyed her 36 years working in the community!
Employee of the Month: Falisha Tyson-Brooks Falisha Tyson-Brooks has been with PPH since July 2019 in our Personal Care Department as a CNA. Her caring demeanor and warm heart are an asset to the department. She is a very hard worker and treats the residents she cares for as family. Congratulations Falisha! Thank you for doing “Whatever it takes.” For employee of the month nominations, contact Daphne Floyd at 8015 or dfloyd@pphfamily.org. For volunteer of the month nominations, contact Carol Cherrington at 8027 or ccherrington@pphfamily.org.
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Reflections support each other and process grief together, sharing as is comfortable for you. There are no expectations. Details will Anne Eichner, be posted throughout campus Pastoral Care or reach out to any of us listed Assistant below. This season, I encourage you to take time to be still and reflect on your own memories and traditions. May you find renewed hope and light. May your faith reaffirm that you are loved, unique and accepted. May you shine brightly and live authentically, recognizing your sorrow, and find growth and goodness amidst your losses. May you live in such a way that you reflect love and peace and compassion to those around you. And may you experience a very blessed and memorable holiday season! For more information, contact: • Pastor Peter Ahn: 8012 or pahn@pphfamily.org • Chaplain Linda Lewis: 8006 or llewis@pphfamily.org • Anne Eichner: 8563 or aeichner@pphfamily.org
Traditions and Memories
What comes to your mind this time of year, as the holiday season approaches? Perhaps your thoughts flow back to memories that are vivid and hold special meaning of childhood delights and family traditions that were simple and full of goodness. Wonderful aromas coming from the kitchen and the anticipation of indulging in holiday treats, laughter, singing, games and gifts. Our minds hold many memories that bring warmth to our soul, we can feel reflective, nostalgic, and long for days gone by. We grieve those who have passed or are no longer in our lives. We struggle to make sense of the changes as we age, the adjustments we must make along the challenging road of life. Life experiences can settle into sadness, anger and loneliness. Often bittersweet, the holiday season holds a blend of warm and joyful memories along with those of pain and loss. If this resonates with you, the PPH Pastoral Staff invites you to attend our monthly “Good Grief Bereavement Support.” A time to gather as a community (residents, staff, and friends) to genuinely
Heritage Society reception PPH held a reception for members of the Heritage Society on Tuesday, Nov. 21 in the Private Dining Room. The Heritage Society recognizes generous donors who have made the commitment to remember PPH through a planned gift such as a charitable gift annuity, a bequest through a will, IRA, life insurance or other gift. New Director of Donor Relations Marianna Calabrese thanked those in attendance — made up of residents and outside donors — for their continued support of PPH, and expressed appreciation for the warm reception she has received from residents, colleagues, donors, senior leadership and the Board of Directors since joining PPH in early November.
Board of Directors member William Gross, donor Stephen F. Schreiber, Board member Russell Koerwer, Director of Donor Relations Marianna Calabrese and former PPH President & CEO Anthony Manzo enjoy snacks at the Heritage Society reception.
THE PPH MISSION Guided by Christian values, the mission of The Philadelphia Protestant Home is to provide a caring senior living community that affords its residents the opportunity to achieve their highest possible quality of life. 8