Throughout Women’s History Month in March, nine PPH women gave presentations on various aspects of their lives.
Topics touched on childhood memories, travel adventures, raising children, volunteerism, advocacy, retirement and much more. Each story offered a glimpse into their life journeys and inspiring lives they've led.
To learn more about our presenters, see page 4.
Joan Smith told stories of her camping travels around the country; Pat Morrissy discussed the process of canning and preserving jars of food.
The PPH Auxiliary donated $4,000 to kick off the PPH 135 campaign!
PPH held a special event in March to commemorate 135 years since the founding of The Philadelphia German Protestant Home for the Aged on March 4, 1890. The program consisted of speaker remarks, a slideshow of historic PPH photos, a look back to 1890, the launch of our PPH 135 campaign and more. To read more about the program and our new campaign, see page 3.
Family Focus
Three team members honored for excellent service
Three PPH team members were recently recognized as Guardian Angels. Each team member was highlighted for various reasons, including compassion, expertise, excellent service, and even some “mean dance moves."
Wellness Coordinator Vincent Barrett was selected by Lawndale Manor residents Walter and Carol Ceglowski.
Since moving to PPH, the Ceglowskis have been impressed with the Wellness Center, as well as the guidance that Vincent has offered.
"Vincent is extremely well-versed in the exercise needs of residents and is well qualified to identify appropriate exercise regimens for the array of residents’ needs,” said the Ceglowskis.
Dexter Wormly
PPH was saddened by the passing of Dexter Wormly in March 2025. Dexter first joined PPH as a volunteer, and over the past 12 years has worked in our Security and Environmental Services departments.
Dexter was known for his pleasant demeanor and his dedication to PPH. Many cited the parking lot renova-
Monica Pace of the Environmental Services Department was recognized by Lawndale Manor resident Pat Ripoll.
“If Monica is cleaning the Lawndale entrance, nary a leaf would dare cross the door," Pat said. "Monica and her yellow cart are inseparable. She is single-minded in making sure that the lobby, the hallways, and the bathrooms are spotless. Should one stop to say hello, she will respond with a wide grin. She is pleasant, dedicated and a fine person. Oh, and by the way, Monica is one mean dancer!”
Gateway Manor resident Marie Tucci honored IT Manager Albert Eschert for the patience and assistance he offered Marie before an
Remembrance
tions in 2013 when he helped direct team members, residents and visitors in and out of the lots, and the safety precautions he took during the COVID pandemic to keep everyone safe.
important Zoom call.
“Albert slowly and precisely explained to me what I needed to do,” Marie explained. “On the day of the call, he showed up at my apartment — much to my surprise — to make sure all went smoothly. Truly, this action brought tears to my eyes as he went over and above what I was expecting. Albert, thank you for a job well done — again!”
For more information on how to express your gratitude and appreciation by honoring a team member's compassion, quality care and excellent service, contact Director of Donor Development Marianna Calabrese at 215-697-8508 or mcalabrese@pphfamily.org
“I could always count on Dexter; he always did the absolute best he could and never said no to any
request,” said Infection Control Preventionist Eileen Bratton. “He had a kind heart and would always stop to talk to our residents while he was completing daily tasks. I am so thankful for all he did for PPH and Pathways.” Our thoughts and prayers continue for Dexter’s loved ones, friends, PPH colleagues and PPH residents.
From left to right: Walter and Carol Ceglowski recognize Vincent Barrett (Wellness); Monica Pace (Environmental Services) thanks Pat Ripoll; Marie Tucci congratulates Albert Eschert (IT)
135 years of compassionate care
The PPH 135 celebration on March 4 acknowledged the past, celebrated the present, and kicked off a giving campaign that looks towards the future.
A special slideshow presentation took attendees on a journey through PPH’s rich history, starting in 1889 when a group of German Protestant ministers sought to establish a home for aging neighbors in need of shelter and care. Just one year later, in 1890, the Philadelphia German Protestant Home for the Aged was founded on N.5th St. In 1899, PPH moved to its current location in the Lawndale neighborhood of Philadelphia.
The slideshow highlighted key moments in PPH’s evolution—from its early days as “The Old Folks Home” in the 1920s to the construction of the Webb Building in the 1960s, the development of Independent Living buildings in the 1970s and 1980s, and numerous expansions and enhance-
ments over the years.
Today, the 13-acre beautifullylandscaped campus on Martins Mill Road offers religious, educational, and social programming, but also comfort and community.
While the people, buildings and society have changed, PPH’s mission of providing a caring community where residents can achieve their highest quality of life remains, as does its commitment to benevolence.
PPH Auxiliary President Patricia Coyne also shared a presentation on the Auxiliary’s history and meaningful contributions to PPH.
Going forward, PPH will recognize its anniversary — March 4 — as PPH Giving Day. Each March 4 will be a day of celebration and serve as an opportunity to acknowledge PPH’s mission.
And to kick off the PPH 135 campaign, the Auxiliary donated $4,000!
We thank the Auxiliary for their generous donation and all that they do for PPH.
To view the slideshow of PPH’s history from the program, please visit our PPH 135 pagepphfamily.org/pph135. If you wish to honor our PPH 135 campaign, choose the $135 gift option for 135 years or select a custom amount on the donation form at the bottom of the page. Be sure to select “PPH 135” from the "Designation" drop down menu. We thank you for any contributions and for your commitment to PPH!
For more information or for any questions, please contact Director of Donor Development Marianna Calabrese at 215-697-8508 or mcalabrese@pphfamily.org.
Chef Rey Gayo prepares an Indian Style Spiced Salad Bruschetta recipe.
PPH Nutrition Care Manager
Kathleen Garrity (right) and LaSalle University student Marlaina Pomales were on hand to discuss healthy options.
The Wellness & Connection Fair on March 13 was a collaborative event between PPH’s Wellness, Culinary, and Social Services teams in recognition of National Nutrition Month and National Social Work Month. Team members from each department spent time connecting with residents on resources, options and nutrition across the Wellness spectrum. Residents in attendance enjoyed the shamrock smoothies, the Italian/Indian fusion, as well as a competitive game of food group BINGO!
Wellness Director Maureen Solomon and Alpha Manor resident Marie Campbell discuss healthy smoothie options.
Social Services Team: Kenneth Lopez, Aiyana CarterThompson, Marge Felix and Temple University student Delia Perez.
Family Focus
Women's History Month Stories
Top Row: Merle Wilson reminisced about her childhood in the Frankford section of Northeast Philadelphia; Patricia Coyne also reflected on her years living in Frankford and her volunteerism; Peg McFadden expressed appreciation of communities "where everybody knows your name."
Second row: Sylvia Metzler introduced each speaker and read from her book of jokes; Arlene Tyner shared her passion for advocacy; Chris Groeber spoke about her career as a lab technician and all of the advancements since she first entered the medical field.
Third row: Sue Roye discussed her love of photography and career as a teacher and principal; Maxine Littlepage shared her ceramic collection, love of puzzles and traveling adventures.
To read more details from the Women of PPH's life journeys, please visit the Blog section of our websitepphfamily.org/about/blog/
St. Patrick’s Day Celebration
PPH residents enjoyed Irish egg rolls, pretzels and more on St. Patrick's Day, as singer Laura Kate entertained the crowd!
Employee of the Month: James Perez
Congratulations to James Perez for being named April Employee of the Month! James has been with PPH's Maintenance team since May 2024. He is a positive presence in Pathways and takes great pride in caring for our residents. James is an asset to PPH as he is always willing to assist residents and coworkers. Congratulations, James!
PPH resident celebrates 108 with family & friends
PPH resident Cecelia Amato celebrated her 108th birthday in March — yes, 108th!
Family, friends and neighbors gathered to celebrate her special day — one notable resident-guest was 105-yearold Marcella, a longtime friend of Cecelia.
When asked a few years ago on secrets to longevity, Cecelia said healthy eating and keeping mentally active are the keys to living a long, healthy life.
Cecelia is PPH’s oldest resident, and one of 15 centenarians as of mid March 2025.
Wishing Cecelia a year filled with joy, health, and continued happiness!
Seniors dining with seniors — Bambies gather for lunch
Volunteer of the Month: Peg McFadden
The Volunteer of the Month for April 2025 is Gateway Manor resident Peg McFadden. Peg has been a PPH volunteer since early 2024. In that time, she has done an excellent job as cashier in Tabor Market. Peg is pleasant, kind and always willing to assist those who enter Tabor Market.
Alumni of St. Hubert Catholic High School for Girls, spanning the Class of 1946 to 1970, shared a special lunch with Bella, Gianna and Shana from the Class of 2025! Special thanks to our Culinary team for preparing the delicious meal and accommodating this group of Bambies as they enjoyed great food and shared stories about their high school days.
Cecelia Amato (yellow shirt) celebrated 108 with her friend Marcella (red shirt), family and fellow residents.
NEWS BRIEFS, HAPPENINGS AND EVENTS
★ Veterans’ Meeting: Tuesday, April 1 at 10 a.m. in the Learning Center. Any questions, call Bill Conaway - #8031.
★ PPH Auxiliary: The Auxiliary will hold its next meeting in the Social Hall on Tuesday, April 1 at 11:30 a.m. and will broadcast live on PPH TV channel 7. (Auxiliary meetings are typically the second Tuesday of each month; please note the early date for this meeting.)
★ Philly Pups: Thursday, April 3 at 7 p.m. in the Social Hall. Come and meet these future service/therapy dogs and watch them as they participate in training exercises.
★ Koffee with Kelli: Independent Living Residents - Come out and chat with Kelli Mills, PPH’s Interim Executive Director, over a cup of coffee or tea in the Social Hall on Tuesday, April 8 at 10:30 a.m. There will be monthly community updates from Kelli and PPH administration.
★ VMSC Emergency Medical Services: VMSC (which has recently affiliated with Burholme EMS) will be available on Friday, April 11 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon in the Fountain Room. Residents will have the opportunity to learn more about services and sign up for VMSC’s Ambulance Subscription program.
★ Quizzo: Monday, April 14 at 7 p.m. in the Social Hall. Quizzo consists of multiple rounds of trivia questions. Be your own team or join up with some neighbors or friends!
★ Guest Speaker: Lillian Gaffney will present on Tuesday, April 15 at 2 p.m. in the Social Hall. Topic: A Special Presentation for the Jewish and Christian Sacred Seasons.
★ Guest Entertainer: Singer Elyse will perform on Wednesday, April 16 at 2 p.m. in the Social Hall.
★ Movie Matinee: "Jesus" from Sight and Sound will broadcast on Thursday, April 25 at 2 p.m. in the Social Hall.
★ IL Residents Association meeting: The April meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 22 at 2 p.m. in the Social Hall and on PPH channel 7.
★ Bingo (IL residents): Thursday, April 24 at 2 p.m. in the Social Hall.
★ Philadelphia Boys Choir: Saturday, April 26 at 2 p.m. in the Social Hall.
★ Coffee with the Little Flower President: Calling all Little Flower alumna-residents, staff and anyone that has a connection to Little Flower Catholic High School. Please join us in the Learning Center on Tuesday, May 13 at 10:30 a.m. to sit and chat with Little Flower’s current president, Kristie Dugan '92. This will be informational and a reminiscing session on all things Little Flower. Please RSVP to Ginny Maciocha by April 30 at #8567.
★ Ladies Day Tea: Thursday, May 15, 2 p.m. in the Social Hall. Must sign up in business office starting April 17. Please wear a fancy hat!
★ Pride Month: June is Pride Month, a month-long observance dedicated to the celebration of LGBTQ pride! If
Continued on page 7
★ NEW: DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging) Monthly Meeting: Embracing Diversity at PPH - Monday, April 14 at 3 p.m. in the Fellowship Room. For more info on this resident-initiated meeting, contact MaryAnn Volk at #8345.
Women’s History Month Collection continues
March may be in the rearview mirror, but PPH residents are extending their Women’s History Month Collection initiative.
Please consider donating the following, all of which will go to PPH residents in Pathways and Personal Care:
•Scented soaps & lotions
•Hair brushes & combs
•Toothbrushes & toothpaste
•Undershirts
•Socks
•Go bags
•Coloring Books
•Crayons, Colored pencils
•Small stuffed animals
•Handkerchiefs
The main drop off location for donated items is the PPH Access
Hub, located in 1124 Lawndale. Other locations include: the Gateway Manor Lobby, the vending machine area between the Wellness Center and the Greenhouse, and across from Tabor Market.
Items will be distributed by PPH’s Social Services team. For any questions, contact Alpha Manor resident Sylvia Metzler at #8577.
Community Connections
PPH and State Rep partner to secure transportation funding
PPH, in partnership with State Representative Anthony Bellmon, secured funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development that will be used to provide a new wheelchair accessible van. This van will be used to transport PPH residents to medical appointments and community outings. Representative Bellmon presented PPH with a generous check for $84,350!
“I was very proud to help secure this funding that will make it easier to get residents out and around,” said Bellmon. “Whether it’s to visit loved ones, shop, attend appointments or simply to get out and connect with the community, this is an added amenity that will continue PPH's excellent service to its residents.”
PPH Administration is working on a plan for the funds that will be implemented in the near future.
Pictured above: PPH Administration and team members who assisted with securing a grant that will be used to obtain a wheelchair accessible van. Also pictured are many of the PPH residents who advocated for and supported this upcoming addition.
Philadelphia Police Department holds Town Hall at PPH
The Philadelphia Police Department (PPD) with Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel, held an evening Town Hall on March 13 in the PPH Social Hall. The panel of officers took questions from the audience.
PPH thanks the PPD for its service and for engaging with PPH and the external community.
P. Cram, Chief Inspector Michael McCarrick and Inspector Frank Bachmeyer.
Briefs — Continued from page 6
interested in participating in residentinitiated Pride events and activities at PPH, please contact Marge Sexton at #8368.
★ PPH Food Drive: PPH's residentinitiated monthly food drive continues! Food is collected the last week
of each month and delivered the first day of the following month.
The four locations for drop off are:
1. Access Hub (1124 Lawndale), 2. Across from Tabor Market, 3. Vending Machine area between the Wellness Center, and 4. Gateway Manor Lobby.
For more info, call Tom Sexton at #8368.
★ Volunteer Opportunities: Our Volunteer Department is always looking for new volunteers to assist throughout the PPH community. If you are interested in volunteering at PPH, please contact Carol Cherrington at #8027.
PPH residents look on as State Representative Bellmon speaks.
From left to right: Deputy Commissioner Myesha Massey, Second District Captain Andrew DiSanto, Police Commissioner Kevin J. Bethel, Deputy Commissioner Patrol Operations Michael
Reflections
What's your story?
Dear PPH Family and Friends,
On Feb. 14 — Valentines’ Day — hundreds of thousands of Philadelphians wore green in celebration of the Philadelphia Eagles Superbowl victory.
On March 17 — St Patrick’s Day —millions around the world wore green in honor of that day. Who was St. Patrick, and why do we celebrate on March 17?
For starters, St. Patrick was not Irish, he was British. He was born in the fifth century in Britain.
At age 16, he was kidnapped by Irish raiders and spent six years in captivity. In Ireland, he served as a slave and a shepherd. During his imprisonment, he converted to Christianity.
After six years of slavery, he felt God spoke to him telling him to “get out of here,” and run away. He obeyed God. He ran two hundred miles to a port. The boat took him to Britain where he grew in his faith.
God spoke to him again, this time to return to Ireland.
St. Patrick returned to Ireland and preached the gospel to the same people who captured him.
He spent the remainder of his life working as a Christian missionary, and his death is recognized as March 17, the day we celebrate him every year.
By Pastor Earl Scott
According to legend, St. Patrick used the shamrock to demonstrate the picture of the Holy Trinity.
Psalm 63 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking God, relying on His love, and finding satisfaction in Him, even in difficult times.
This Psalm is believed to have been written by David during a time of hardship, possibly in the wilderness during his exile from the throne.
Another amazing story in the Bible is found in the book of Genesis.
Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery (Genesis 37). Nevertheless, God used Joseph in a mighty way. He eventually became the Prime Minister of Egypt. When the opportune time came for Joseph to settle the score with his brothers, he said; “You meant it for evil, but God meant if for good.” (Genesis 50:20)
Rather than becoming bitter, St. Patrick became better. He chose to share the gospel instead of seeking revenge. How about you, my friend? Do you have a forgiving heart? God will not bless bitterness. Someone has well said, “Let go, and let God!”
What’s your story today? What will others say about you years from now?
Upcoming services and events from Pastoral Services
★ Bible Study: Tuesdays, April 1 and 15, 10 a.m. in the PPH Chapel and broadcast on channel 5.
★ Passover Celebration: Wednesday, April 9 at 11 a.m. in the Private Dining Room. RSVP only. For any questions, contact Chaplain Linda Lewis at #8006.
★ Prayer Breakfast: Saturday, April 12 at 9 a.m. in the Social Hall. Tickets are $8.50 and may be purchased at the Business Office during the week or at the Breakfast. April's speaker - Randy Brubaker.
★ Quarterly Memorial Service: Tuesday, April 22 at 3:30 p.m. in the Chapel and broadcast channel 5.
We will remember those who passed during the months of January, February and March 2025. All are invited — light refreshments to follow.
★ Shabbat Service: Friday, April 25 at 2 p.m. in the Fellowship Room.
★ Good Grief - Companions in Loss Bereavement Support: Due to a scheduling conflict, April's meeting is canceled. It is scheduled to resume in May, on Wednesday, May 14 at 11:30 a.m. in the Alpha Manor First Floor Lounge.
For PPH's Holy Week schedule, please see the April calendar insert.
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.
