Traditions of America

Tag: active adult living

Meet the Lifestyle Director – Traditions of America at Lititz
We love a good happy hour as much as the next person — but do you ever stop to think about the person who set it up in the first place? We do!

At Traditions of America, we know you deserve the best in Active Adult living. This is why there are full-time Lifestyle Directors at each one of our communities. He or she is there to assist all of our homeowners in planning the activities that matter most.

Have an idea for a new club? The Lifestyle Director will transform your ideas into reality. The Lifestyle Director is also your source to the latest and greatest productions in town, and can help you plan your night out! Possibilities are endless.

Join your friends (and make new ones!) at our seasonal parties, happy hours, fitness classes, wine tastings, excursions, and so much more!

For our second edition in the “Meet the Lifestyle Director” series, we would like to introduce Rachel Bechard from Traditions of America at Lititz!

Where are you from?

Born & raised in Lititz, PA. Currently living in Manheim, PA

How long have you been working for Traditions of America?

Two amazing years!

What got you interested in working as a Lifestyle Director?

I love working with people and have a background in Customer Service. I love helping people and the idea of serving the same people every day (helping them grow, make friends, and live their best lives) was extremely appealing to me.

Why do you like working at Traditions of America at Lititz?

Our team is simply the best. Everyone I work with is dedicated, empathetic, and a team player. We all want to see our community succeed, so we go above and beyond and help one another out every day.

What’s the most interesting thing you’ve seen/been a part of while on the job?

We turned the clubhouse into a murder mystery dinner theater for a night and it was spectacular!

What’s something that has surprised you about your chosen career path?

I was surprised at how my previous jobs have prepared me for this one. I’ve had to use knowledge and experience going as far back as my High School job in food service! I am a “Jill of all Trades”, and I love that I get to utilize my various levels of knowledge and experience daily.

If you had one super power to help you with being a Lifestyle Director, what would it be and why?

I would want to get jobs done like Genie from “I Dream of Genie” or Samantha from “Bewitched”. Just *bobs head* or *twitches nose* and *poof* Things get done!

What types of things can people look forward to by moving into Traditions of America at Lititz?

The sky is the limit! We have it all, from games, sports, social activities to volunteer opportunities, and clubs and committees that allow you to make real, deep, lasting friendships. This community is seriously one big family.

What is your favorite part of the Traditions of America at Lititz community?

Probably the volunteers. We have so many homeowners who help make our activities and events all the more magical for their help. Because of them, many of our activities are free or have little cost associated with them. We have homeowners who teach Line Dance, Water Aerobics, Bone Builders, and Yoga! We have others who cook and bake for our events. We have even more who teach art, card-making, sewing, knitting, crocheting, and the list goes on! Beyond activities, we have “Helping Hands”, a club who will help neighbors with trips to the airport, cook or grocery shop for them when they’re sick, and do handy-man jobs around the house. We also have “Community Cares Committee”, who works with local charities to give back to the community of Lititz. They run several programs throughout the year, always helping those in need: Veterans, children, homeless. It’s that attitude of giving back to the community and using your talents for the good of all that makes TOA Lititz so special.

What’s your favorite part of Lititz, PA?

Lititz Springs Park. It’s built up around a natural spring and it’s covered by hundreds-year-old trees, so between the natural spring and the tree cover, the park is always cool. That’s why Lititz is the “Coolest Small Town in America”

If there were three words to describe Traditions of America at Lititz, what would they be and why?
1. Warm: Everyone is always smiling and excited to welcome their new neighbors to the community
2. Active: There is never a dull moment in our community!
3. Generous: Our community is always helping others – through donation drives, volunteer services, and kind acts.
In your opinion, what is the biggest aspect of Traditions of America that sets us apart from other 55+ communities?

The lifestyle. I don’t think any other community offers a life like this. My homeowners have a community in the literal sense: “a feeling of fellowship with others, as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals.”

This or That: Lititz Edition (choose one)
- Indoor Pool or Outdoor Pool? Indoor
- Pool or Hot Tub? Pool
- Billiards or Table Tennis? Billiards
- Bridge or Shuffleboard? Shuffleboard
- Walking Club or Yoga? Yoga
- Happy Hour or Brunch? Brunch!
- Book Club or Bocce Ball League? Book Club
- Line Dance or Texas Hold ‘em? LINE DANCE!
We are blessed to have someone as amazing as Rachel working at one of our communities! Getting to know your Lifestyle Director is the easiest way to start living better and enjoying the active adult lifestyle. Make sure to stay tuned for our next feature in the “Meet the Lifestyle Director” series!
July 9, 2019
Traditions of America 3rd Annual Cross Community Golf Classic

The 3^rd Annual Traditions of America Cross Community Golf Classic was held June 3^rd, 2019. A few years ago, Traditions of America at Liberty Hills kindly extended an invitation to Sewickley Ridge to play in a cross-community golf outing. Both of these Traditions of America communities were fully functioning under their own elected Home Owner Associations, yet wanted the camaraderie to commence – and the Golf Classic was born! Now, there are a total of five local Traditions of America communities that are invited to play: Summer Seat, Pinnacle at Adams, and Cranberry, in addition to Liberty Hills and Sewickley Ridge.

The Classic is categorized as a “scramble”, so skill isn’t necessarily a factor. All are encouraged to attend and participate, with an emphasis on fun rather than pressure. Foursomes that play are usually a mix of people throughout different communities. This way, homeowners are encouraged to get to know one another across different Traditions of America communities. You may think that you don’t know folks from other communities, but in the past, several couples connected with long-lost friends at this event. Homeowners who have participated say that the “cross community” adds to the fun!

This year’s event was our first sell out with 88 players! Players came from Liberty Hills, Sewickley Ridge, Summer Seat and Pinnacle at Adams. Next year, we hope to add additional players from our newest Pittsburgh community – Traditions of America at Cranberry. The winners of this event were 5 under par followed closely by a group at -4.

As Lead Sponsor, the donation from Traditions of America provided a continental breakfast for the players, as well as door prizes. Traditions of America was a big reason for the smiles on those golfers’ faces, and we take pride in helping our homeowners have the fun, active lifestyle that they deserve! This event was a good time for all, and we can’t wait for the next one!

At Traditions of America, we understand that buying a home is not just about the bricks and sticks. It’s about something much larger. When you buy a home at one of our active lifestyle communities, you are not only getting the home you’ve always dreamed of, but you are stepping into a community where you can explore new passions, expand on your interests, and feel like you belong to something much larger. It’s that feeling of community – and belonging – that truly makes a house a home.

June 11, 2019
Your 2019 Spring Cleaning Checklist

The season has finally arrived – the season of spring cleaning, that is. The weather is getting warmer, the sun is shining brighter, and we are ready to get our homes clean and organized!

Traditions of America’s 55+ communities are low-maintenance so you’ll have time to enjoy the best in active adult living. So, to make it easy for our Traditions of America homeowners, we created a Spring Cleaning Checklist for you to follow to leave your home as clean as new.

You can knock it all out at once, tackle each room a different day, or even spread the cleaning out over a couple of weeks. Whatever you decide to do, we are sure your Traditions of America home will be looking better than ever!

Don’t worry – we realize that this is all maintenance for the inside of your home, and not for the exterior. But like we’ve always promised, when you live at Traditions of America, your home’s maintenance schedule will no longer fill up your whole schedule. Do you need your leaves picked up? We have you covered. Is your grass looking too long? We’re on it. No matter the season, you can always count on us to get the job done.

And now that you’ve finally tackled that spring cleaning that you’ve been pushing off for so long, you can start enjoying yourself again! The best place to start living better is the Clubhouse. Not just because of all the 5-star amenities it features, but because it is the natural gathering place for homeowners. So, get out there and enjoy your wonderful community. And hey, maybe even share a spring cleaning tip, or two!

Like they say, “spring breathes new life into the world.”

Are you ready to visit a Traditions of America community? Contact us to schedule a tour today!

April 23, 2019
Springtime Activities at Traditions of America

It’s official – spring is almost here! Although that doesn’t mean the weather will be warmed up completely just yet, it does mean that there is a lot to look forward to in the next upcoming months! All of our active adult communities are conveniently located with easy access to so many fun happenings around the springtime, plus a multitude of things to do right inside your own community.

Traditions of America at Silver Spring:

Every April you can join the town of Mechanicsburg in the Cumberland Valley for their Earth Day Festival, which honors our planet with music, workshops, kid’s activities and more! This will be a great activity for the grandkids, and a wonderful way to enjoy the fresh air of the spring season. Looking for something more your speed? Car show season kicks off with the Spring Carlisle at the end of April! Plus, there will be other spring auto shows at the Carlisle Fairgrounds later in the season!

Traditions of America at Lititz:

We are sure by now you know that Lititz was named one of the Coolest Small Towns in America, which is why you definitely need to make your way to one (or many) of the Second Fridays this Spring that will happen each month from 5pm-9pm. Up and down Main Street and Broad Street in Lititz you’ll find artists, entertainers, musicians, and exhibits that create a fun party atmosphere. Plus, there’s a bonus: the downtown shops, galleries, and restaurants are open late to accommodate the many visitors who turn up each month! Also, don’t forget that the Farmer’s Market will be returning back to Lititz starting in May!

Traditions of America at Summer Seat:

Celebrate Spring with Summer Seat’s first ever Spring Breakfast! This potluck event will be held at the Clubhouse on Saturday, April 6^th! Looking for more to do outside of the community in the upcoming months? During peak flower bloom (early to mid-April), visitors are able to walk the trails of the Wildflower Reserve at Raccoon Creek State Park and see dozens of varieties of wildflowers along the way! Another Spring event you won’t want to miss is Phipps’ new Spring Flower Show that’s bursting with color, The Gardens of Rainbow!

Traditions of America at Saucon Valley:

With the change in weather comes the change in outdoor festivals, so bring on the Spring Festivals! The Bear Creek Spring Wine Festival is coming back on April 6^th and 7^th to the Lehigh Valley in Macungie! This two-day festival features wine sampling, live music, and artisan craft and food vendors. Not into festivals? Don’t worry – let the fresh air of spring carry you through the Lehigh Valley, stopping at many different farmer’s markets in the region. With locally grown produce to unique drinks and crafts, you will want to shop for hours!

March 11, 2019
Meet the Team Behind the Dream: Summer Seat Community Manager Dan DeStefano

Another sneak peek into the Team Behind the Dream…we are pleased to introduce you to Dan DeStefano, Community Manager at Summer Seat, who strives to deliver DreamHomes to homeowners day in and day out. Recently, we talked with Dan about the work that he does, his day to day here at Summer Seat, and some fun facts about him!

Q: What does a typical day at Traditions of America at Summer Seat, active adult community, look like for you?

A: A typical day starts on site at 6:00 am. First, I drive through the community to check the entire site. Then, I make my way through each home to ensure all the scheduled vendors are working and answer any questions they may have. On any given day, I will have multiple scheduled and unscheduled appointments to attend. Another important part of my job is making sure the community appearance is up to our standards and that our homeowner’s needs are met for the day. At the end of every day, I ensure all the homes are closed up and in good order.

Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?

A: I love being able to help the customer through the building process. It is so rewarding to deliver our customers a home that has been carefully built from top to bottom and which has their personal touches and design input throughout…..and then to see how happy they are. That makes my day!

Q: What is your most memorable career moment at TOA?

A: Closing over 50 homes in the second half of the year at nearby Sewickley Ridge, our second community in the Pittsburgh area, a few years ago.

Dan, at far right, speaking to customers about the building process

Q: What is your career theme song?

A: “Takin’ Care of Business”

Q: Best advice ever received?

A: “It’s only a mistake if you don’t learn from it”

Q: If you were a superhero, who would you be?

A: Superman – he is able to help people whenever needed but otherwise appears to be a normal person.

Q: Where would we find you after hours?

A: I am usually at one of my children’s sporting events, regardless of time of year.

Q: If your life had a movie title, what would it be?

Dan raising the flag at Summer Seat

A: “Lucky 7” (for my seven children)

Q: Word that best describes you?

A: Driven

Q: If you were stranded on a desert island and could only have three items, what would they be?

A: A multi-tool, a fire starting mechanism that doesn’t require a fuel source, and a water filtration system.

Q: If you could meet any historical figure, who would it be?

A: George Washington – not only was he a proven leader as a General and as the first President, he was also one of the most innovative farmers of his time. His ingenuity and problem-solving skills fascinate me.

Q: If you ruled the world, what would you change on Day 1?

A: I would ensure everyone has food and water – with the resources the world has no one should ever be starving.

August 29, 2018
The Maverick State: Retirement-Friendly PA

I bet you never thought of a state as a “maverick.” Merriam-Webster defines the term as, “an independent individual who does not go along with a group or party.” Well, when it comes to retirement, Pennsylvania is quite the maverick state. In comparison to its immediate neighbors – New Jersey, New York, and Maryland – all of which rank in the nation’s top five worst states to retire, Pennsylvania truly stands apart from the crowd. Ranked among Kiplinger’s top 14 states to retire in, Pennsylvania has a cost of living below the national average, low health care costs, and is extremely tax friendly for those 65 and older, making it a stellar option for retirees looking to maximize their savings and enjoy a long, care-free retirement. While the Northeast is generally considered a below average region to retire due to its high cost of living and taxes, Pennsylvania is a mighty exception to this rule. So what exactly is up with this retirement-friendly maverick state? Read on for the full scoop:

For starters, Pennsylvania does not tax Social Security income, withdrawals from retirement accounts, or public and private pension income, saving residents potentially thousands annually. In comparison, New York, New Jersey, and Maryland all partially tax withdrawals from retirement accounts. In addition, New York partially taxes private pension income and New Jersey partially taxes both public and private pension income. Maryland also partially taxes public pension income, and fully taxes private pension income.

In New Jersey, property taxes come in with the alarming distinction of highest in the nation. Retiree healthcare costs rank third highest and average $440,299 for a retired couple. The cost of living is the 5th highest in the nation, about 27% above the national average. According to Kiplinger, New Jersey also has the worst ranking for fiscal soundness in the U.S, a major red flag when considering retirement.

Manhattan, with an average cost of living that is 138.6% higher than the national average, is responsible for New York’s high average cost of living, which is about 22% above the national average. In addition, average health care costs for a retired married couple in New York are above average at $433,347.

Maryland ranks 2nd highest in the U.S in average household income for people age 65 and up, yet residents get clobbered by high taxes and costs of living. While Maryland does not tax social security benefits, distributions from individual retirement accounts are fully taxable. Maryland is also one of only two states that has both an estate and inheritance tax, making it one of the least tax friendly states for retirees. Oh – and by the way – the other state that has both is, you guessed it, another one of Pennsylvania’s infamous neighbors – New Jersey!

When considering relocation for retirement, the factors that go into the final decision are different for everyone; proximity to family and friends, weather, hobbies, culture. But one common element weighs heavily for most: where can I live most cost effectively while enjoying a fun-filled and care-free retirement? In considering cost-effective living, Pennsylvania ranks among the best states to retire in the nation. Its tax friendliness, low cost of living, and low healthcare costs make it a clear contender for a long and happy retirement – a true maverick state among its regional peers! With locations all across Pennsylvania, a Traditions of America resort-style community may be a great choice for you!

Sources:
https://smartasset.com/retirement/pennsylvania-retirement-taxes#pennsylvania
https://smartasset.com/retirement/new-jersey-retirement-taxes#newjersey
https://smartasset.com/retirement/new-york-retirement-taxes#q=new%20york
https://smartasset.com/retirement/maryland-retirement-taxes#maryland
https://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/retirement/T006-S001-best-states-for-retirement-2018/index.html

June 26, 2018
New Twists on a Clubhouse Favorite

On any given day, you can find our Traditions of America residents gathering with friends for a friendly game of billiards at our active adult community Clubhouses. Pool is one of the most popular versions of cue sports and while most people are familiar with the American-style Eight-Ball style of play, there are many variations of gameplay that keep things fresh and challenging for even the most avid players.

Cutthroat

Cutthroat is played with three people. The fifteen balls are grouped into sets: “low balls” *numbered 1 to 5), “mid balls” (numbered 6 to 10) and “high balls” (numbered 11 to 15) and each person is assigned a group to protect while the other players do their best to pocket (or pot) the other players’ balls.

A player’s turn continues as long as they continually pocket balls with each shot, including their own (also known as “cutting your own throat”). If a player scratches, or pots the cue ball, one ball from your opponent is returned to the table, which may mean a player can be brought back into the game after losing all their balls!

One Pocket

One Pocket is a deceptively simple game. It’s played with all fifteen balls in the rack. Each player is assigned one of the corner pockets on the table into which they must pot all their balls during the course of the game. First player to score 8 points wins.

Straight Pool

Straight pool uses all fifteen balls and players are able to earn points on any ball they pot. However, they must call which ball and pocket they plan to shoot. Points are only awarded if the designated ball goes into the correct pocket and can be played up to 100 or 150 points (meaning you’ll need to rerack throughout the game; it’s a good way to stretch a single game through the evening). Play continues until the player faults or misses. You can make things interesting by awarding penalty points for misses.

Golf Pool

Golf pool borrows elements from traditional golf. Each player is assigned a single ball and each pocket is assigned a number, typically clockwise starting at the top right corner pocket. Each player then attempts to pot their ball into each pocket in ascending order.

Saratoga

Saratoga is played with thirteen balls (6 stripes, 6 solids, and the winning ball, which is typically the 8-ball). Each player completes a run on solid or stripes, in order starting with the lowest ball on the table. Once you’ve completed your set, finish off by potting the 8-ball to win.

These are just some of the many variations that can be played on a pool table. Games like these can challenge even the most experienced player while still allowing novices to have a fun time.

The heart of each Traditions of America community is the Clubhouse, where residents enjoy 5-star amenities including heated pools, fitness centers, billiards rooms and more. It’s the perfect place to gather and meet new friends, explore new passions or join one of the many resident-led clubs. Discover the Live Better lifestyle at one of our Traditions of America communities!

May 22, 2018
Traditions of America at Silver Spring Residents Living Better Every Day!

Making the move to a 55+ active adult community is a big decision for most people as they approach their retirement years. There will be more free time, as work commitments change or become less. For some, this is a new-found freedom! And, very exciting.

In a recent Wall Street Journal article, David Ekerdt, professor of sociology and gerontology at the University of Kansas, suggests “…Let retirement be retirement. Studies of people who pass from work to retirement consistently find that they prize sovereignty over time—freedom—as the great gift of their new stage of life.”

Residents at Silver Spring say “Bring it on!” Jon Evans, Lifestyle Director at Silver Spring, publishes a weekly newsletter of “goings on” in the community. A quick glance at the latest edition – which was a whopping 11 pages long – confirms that Silver Spring residents are taking advantage of their “freedom” in diverse and rewarding ways.

The Spring 2018 Golf Tournament is front and center on the agenda, along with the start-up of the spring Bocce league. The Men’s breakfast club is in full swing and the Ladies Lunch date for May has been set at the popular Thea restaurant in Mechanicsburg.

Early May is synonymous with some time-honored celebrations…and Silver Spring knows how to roll out a party. First up is the Cinco de Mayo Happy Hour with games, prizes, a BYOB and BYO special dish to share. On its heels is the crowd-favorite Kentucky Derby party! This year, residents have planned a BYO Bourbon for mint juleps. And, of course, there will be games, trivia, a hat contest, and derby food – as The Run for the Roses gets underway.

Book Club devotees are busy with new assignments. There are pottery class signups, interior decorating seminars to attend, and a class on smartphone photography has been brought back a second time due to popular demand! The “Brew Crew” has trips planned to the Harrisburg Senators Baseball game and Tattered Flag Brewery & Still Works. The Kayak Club has several trips on the books with Susquehanna Outfitters. The next trip features an evening float to take in the beautiful central Pennsylvania sunsets from the water. As the weather warms up, so does the activity in the outdoor pool; water aerobics signups are right around the corner.

For thespian-minded enthusiasts, Silver Spring has its own acting guild – the Silver Spring Players Group. Next month’s production is a play entitled “Love Letters” featuring two of Silver Spring’s own residents: Bob Hervey and Kathy Sundberg.

And, we close this entry with a recent comment on our Facebook page by Kathy Sundberg herself: “Lived here for almost 10 years. Love our house, our neighbors, and the lifestyle. Best move we ever made!” That about sums it up! Discover the Live Better lifestyle at Traditions of America at Silver Spring and all of the Traditions of America communities!

April 30, 2018
Traditions of America at Cranberry – the latest and greatest Community coming to Pittsburgh’s North Hills!

Traditions of America is gearing up for its newest community! We are excited to announce the highly anticipated launch of Traditions of America at Cranberry in Pittsburgh’s bucolic North Hills. This is the first ever 55+ Community in Cranberry Township!

Traditions of America at Cranberry will feature 102 Single Family, low-maintenance homes nestled on 48 acres of serene, rolling countryside. The location is minutes from Cranberry’s first-class shopping, recreation and medical services.

Location, location, location: with interstate highways nearby, and the Pittsburgh International Airport and burgeoning arts, dining and sports scene of downtown Pittsburgh only a short drive away, Traditions of America at Cranberry is perfectly positioned for ease and convenience. Heading in to the city to see the Pirates or Steelers play couldn’t be easier!

Traditions of America at Cranberry will showcase best-in-class architecture and the ability to create your DreamHome with our professional designers and renowned customization program. The 24/7 Clubhouse will feature a brand-new, state of the art design by KTGY Architecture. Among the highlights are a Fitness Center, Exercise Room, Sports Bar & Lounge, Business Center & Café, Seasonal, Heated Pool, and more!

The Clubhouse is the quintessential setting for forging new friendships, exploring new hobbies, getting in shape or hosting a party for friends and family in the catering kitchen. There’s always a reason to come together: book club, Super Bowl, Mardi Gras, Kentucky Derby, your favorite community service project, or just a regular Friday night Happy Hour. You decide!

You are sure to Live Better from day one! Traditions of America at Cranberry – our 25th community – and it just might be our best yet!

April 6, 2018
What to Expect When Buying a New Home with Traditions of America

The goal of everyone at Traditions of America is ensuring our customers are WOW’ED by their new home from day one. At each stage, our team works diligently to make the process of building and customizing a home in one of our active adult communities smooth and trouble-free. We’ve developed a tried and true approach to homebuilding that delivers a great experience for our 55+ buyers. Here’s a snapshot:

1) Touring your new homesite with your Construction Manager and New Home Counselor is the first exciting step to ensuring that the home we deliver is the home of your dreams. This initial meeting – the Homesite Walk – sets the stage for the ways you can enhance your outside living areas given the grades surrounding your particular homesite.

2) Equally important is the very first design meeting with one of our professional Designers. During the Initial Design Meeting, you will be introduced to the endless opportunities for customization of the finishes and unique features of your home.

3) Next, the fun begins with a series of Design Meetings. Rolling up your sleeves with the Designer and selecting both structural and design features for your home is exciting. If you want to move a wall, now is the time to do it!

4) At the Pre-Construction Meeting, the Project Manager will meet with you to review the entire building process, introduce you to the construction team, review your selections and confirm the construction schedule.

5) Next up is the Rough Inspection Meeting, which takes place 2-3 months prior to settlement. After framing is complete and utilities and insulation are in place, you will tour your new home to again verify your selections and confirm the completion schedule. At this stage, your home is really beginning to take shape and you can start to see the possibilities for Living Better unfold before your eyes!

6) The 45-Day Review, which occurs 45 days before Settlement, consists of a thorough home inspection by our construction team. Following the inspection, you’ll receive a letter confirming your move-in date.

7) The Quality Assurance Inspection occurs next where a rigorous inspection of every facet of construction is tested in your new home.

8) During the Energy Inspection & Testing, which occurs approximately 10 days before Settlement, an independent auditor will inspect your home for proper insulation and conduct blower door testing for airtightness. At Settlement, you’ll receive an independent energy certificate based on the results of the testing.

9) Orientation – one week before Settlement! The excitement is mounting as you tour your new home with a member of the Construction Team and your New Home Counselor. All the features of your home will be demonstrated during the Orientation.

10) At the Pre-Settlement Inspection, you’ll do a final walk-through ensuring that your home is to your liking and any minor cosmetic items identified along the way have been resolved.

11) Rest assured, our commitment to quality doesn’t end at Settlement! At the 60-Day Inspection, a Customer Service Representative will meet with you in your home to identify and correct and concerns that may have arisen in your first two months since Settlement.

12) The One-Year Inspection is an additional opportunity to review any necessary warranty work or other questions you may have about what has hopefully become your DreamHome!

Start your path to Living Better now. Visit a community! Meet with a New Home Counselor. Talk to a Designer. Living Better is really that easy in a Traditions of America active adult community.

March 14, 2018