The Village at Penn State recently held a reception to celebrate the official opening of Palmer Park.
On Sept. 12, 2013, when the park was first introduced as a plan for a multipurpose outdoor recreation area, The Village hosted Arnold Palmer, who had just turned 84 years old. The Arnold Palmer Design Company keeps his memory alive along with his legendary skills on the golf course with this new addition, which opened on Sept. 17.
The plan came to fruition in all ways at the celebration as residents, distinguished guests and the public strolled the walkways and admired the flowers and the putting green. There is also a bocce court and a place to play cornhole included in the design which adds to the multi-recreational feel of the park.
Ellen Corbin, executive director of the Village at Penn State, welcomed the assembly.
She praised Dave Deluca, Liberty Lutheran’s director of real estate development for his idea, and Thad Layton, senior design architect with the Arnold Palmer Design Company, and his team, for their guidance throughout this project.
Luanne Fisher, president and CEO of Liberty Lutheran, said, “As we stand here, overlooking this charming landscape, I can’t help but feel a sense of joy driven by the fact that now The Village at Penn State stands as one of Pennsylvania’s premier retirement communities.
“In addition to opening Palmer Park today, we also had other projects that occurred the past few years, including several new cottages which surround the park, along with the 409 Bistro and Creamery Terrace,” she continued. “Both offer outdoor dining overlooking the park with exceptional views.”
As a university-based retirement community, the Village offers various opportunities for lifelong learning and an active life, according to Fisher.
“We’ve also added an inviting entryway and lobby which provides a warm atmosphere and pleasant welcome to residents and guests alike,” she said. “Finally, a new community room with generous, flexible seating to accommodate a variety of functions and events and a connector hallway that unites The Village and care areas.”
“The park, visible from the cottages and buildings, draws you out — makes you want to participate and get outside,” said Layton. “Whether you are a golfer or just stroll the walkways, it enhances life in The Village.”
Layton made a presentation of Palmer’s 8802 to Ellen Corbin, which she said would be placed outside the Bistro for all to see.
The Village at Penn State Executive Director Ellen Corbin speaks to those who gathered for a ceremony officially opening Palmer Park on Sept. 17. Photo by Connie Cousins
