Tag Archive for: john knox village of florida

The New Pelican front page, July 3, 2025

JKV in the News: “Scooter” Hayes, Resident Spotlight

If it can be done sitting down, she can do it.

Although John Knox Village resident Terry “Scooter” Hayes is confined to a wheelchair due to a neurological disorder, she remains more active than many people.

Hayes, 66, suffers from primary cerebellar degeneration, which has resulted in complete paralysis in her legs.  However, her slight, small-framed body seated on a wheelchair belies what she’s been able to accomplish despite her physical limitations.  At age 63, she competed on the U.S. Wheelchair Fencing team at the 2020 Paralympics Games in Tokyo.  She was the oldest member of the team, having to compete against others as young as teens.

 

Scooter Hayes U.S. Wheelchair Fencing team headshot

“Scooter” Hayes, Paralympian, U.S. Wheelchair Fencing Team

 

 

When confronted with the reality of the mobility challenges she’d be facing with her medical condition,  she told her doctors, “I’m not gonna live like that.  I’m gonna live.”

Read the full story here.

 

We invite you to learn more and experience our breathtaking campus, astounding amenities, the exceptional team, and our remarkable residents who are all part of what makes JKV extraordinary. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a personal tour.

McKnights Senior Living: From Tragedy, a Chance for Education

The death of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa was a heartbreaking reminder that aging at home can come with unforeseen challenges.

At age 95, beloved actor Gene Hackman was aging at home with his 65-year old wife, Betsy Arakawa as his caretaker.  When Betsy fell ill from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, she passed in their home, leaving Gene without a caretaker which led to his demise days later.

What happened to Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa was devastating and tragic, and it’s an example of what can go wrong when older adults choose to age in place.

As a guest columnist for McKnights Senior Living, Kim Ali, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at John Knox Village of Florida hopes that education about life-plan communities as an option for seniors, in light of this tragedy, may prevent this from happening to others.

Read the full story here.

 

John Knox Village VP of Sales & Marketing Kim Ali

VP of Sales & Marketing, Kim Ali

 

We invite you to learn more and experience our breathtaking campus, astounding amenities, the exceptional team, and our remarkable residents who are all part of what makes JKV extraordinary. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a visit.

GAZETTE – June/July 2025

John Knox Village Gazette - June/July 2025 - Front page

READ THE FULL EDITION HERE!

 

 

Move-In Manager Phyllis discusses design options with two residents, Jackie and Dave while standing in the Design Center

Meet the Experts at JKV: Making Moves Easy: How Phyllis Juber Ensures Seamless Transitions

Whether it’s just around the block or across the country, moving can often be a stressful experience. Transitioning from a long-time house to a new community can be overwhelming. However, new residents to John Knox Village (JKV) in Pompano Beach, Florida, find this move refreshingly smooth. How is that possible? It’s all thanks to our dedicated Move-In Manager, Phyllis Juber, who brings a wealth of expertise to ensure a seamless transition from their old house to their new villa or apartment home at JKV.

Personalized Support Every Step of the Way

Phyllis personally meets with each new resident to understand their unique needs—whether it’s downsizing, packing, handling valuables, or making home upgrades before they move in. She coordinates with trusted vendors, oversees renovation work orders, and ensures new homes are move-in ready, complete with updated flooring, appliances, and any requested improvements.

On move-in day, Phyllis is hands-on, managing logistics, answering last-minute questions, and even providing lunch to make the experience as comfortable as possible.

A Reputation for Excellence

“Phyllis makes the process seamless,” says Kim Ali, Vice President of Sales & Marketing. “She’s a trusted resource, turning a stressful experience into an enjoyable one.”

With 12 years of dedicated service at the internationally-award-winning Life Plan Continuing Care Retirement Community, Phyllis quickly advanced from a Marketing Assistant to her current role due to her strong work ethic and attention to detail.

Prior to JKV, she spent 25 years in Sales and Marketing at an international manufacturing company, where she honed her expertise in vendor coordination, event planning, and marketing strategy—skills that now benefit every new JKV resident she assists.

Resident Testimonials: The Phyllis Difference

Residents Leland and Linda B. share their experience:

“Phyllis worked very hard for us and provided everything exactly as she promised.  As we left our 4,000 sq ft. home for our new Heritage apartment, we found the adjustment unexpectedly easy.  Phyllis became a friend whom we enjoyed working with so very much.  She has the skills to meet your needs and worked tirelessly to make our transition effortless.”

Resident Clark R. shares his experience:

“Kudos to Phyllis Juber! I had the pleasure of working with Phyllis TWICE! My first experience was moving to Cassels Tower in 2020. She helped facilitate my move—from the selection of the house movers to the day the last box was unpacked. She was patient and kind, answering all my questions. She could not have made it any easier! My second move at JKV to Westlake took place just a year ago. Many thanks to Phyllis for making everything look so easy!”

Sherri K., a resident of Village Towers, echoes this sentiment:

“Phyllis holds your hand throughout the move-in process. She has a calming effect, always positive and ready to do whatever is necessary to help. She became my friend and troubleshooter even after my move, and she’s just fantastic.”

More Than a Move—A Lifestyle Upgrade

For more than 50 years, JKV has set the standard for delivering an all-inclusive, resort-style lifestyle tailored to every stage of retirement. The community offers world-class fitness programs, state-of-the-art amenities, delicious and healthy dining, and countless activities designed to promote overall well-being. Residents enjoy peace of mind with unlimited access to on-campus healthcare services, 24/7 EMTs, and security. Plus, with no time or financial limits on long-term care benefits, a Life-Plan contract at JKV provides a fiscal safety net and an unparalleled quality of life.

Ready to Make Your Move?

At JKV, your transition to a new chapter doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With Phyllis Juber’s expert guidance, you can experience a stress-free move and start enjoying all that JKV has to offer right away.  Phyllis is just one of the many experts who make the experience of living at JKV unparalleled.

Your new adventure awaits!

We invite you to experience the vibrant community, world-class amenities, and remarkable residents, and exceptional team members who all make John Knox Village extraordinary.   Contact us today to learn more and schedule a visit.

JKV in the News: At the Apex: ‘Best in Wellness’ Senior Living Communities

John Knox Village of Pompano Beach, Florida, proudly announces being awarded a 2023 ICAA NuStep Pinnacle and Beacon Award for “Best in Wellness”.  The “Best in Wellness” awards shine a light on senior living communities that lead the way in a comprehensive and evolving approach to wellness that enhances the lives of residents and employees.

Although the Journal on Active Aging previously announced the names of 2023’s winners, they are being featured again as part of the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA) published series, highlighting the ICAA NuStep Beacon and Pinnacle Awards’ winning communities.

ICAA awards 25 senior living communities each year with their NuStep Beacon award, recognizing senior living communities that lead the industry in making wellness an integral part of community life. With only the Top 5 receiving the prestige of the Pinnacle award, John Knox Village of Florida is proud to be recognized as one of them.

 

 

Front page of article featuring 'Best in Wellness' Senior Living Communities award winners

 

 

Read the full article here!

 

 

GAZETTE – April/May 2025

READ THE FULL EDITION HERE!

 

 

Fitness Instructor Erik Nenortas stands poolside teaching water aerobics to seniors in the pool

Meet the Experts at JKV: Fitness Manager Erik Nenortas Helps Residents Achieve Their Personal Best

John Knox Village of Florida, Inc. (JKV), an internationally award-winning Life-Plan Continuing Care Retirement Community in sunny Pompano Beach, Florida, is renowned for its innovative wellness and life enrichment for all residents.

Fitness Manager Erik Nenortas, a 28-year employee, is a fitness professional and Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) who leads the Best-In-Class team of licensed professionals, full-time trainers, and class instructors who teach throughout JKV’s 70-acre campus.

Erik is responsible for all fitness staffing, gym equipment, and class implementation. JKV currently has 47 fitness classes per week. Individual personal training and classes are held at the Fitness Studio, Aquatic Complex, Village Centre, Cassels Tower, Heritage Tower, and Village Towers apartment building party rooms. There are many classes to choose from including aerobics, strength & balance, aquatic fitness, karate, Tai Chi, Pilates, yoga, pickleball, meditation, and Parkinson’s Wellness Recovery.

Erik states, “Do your very best to help others succeed in life! By believing in those words, I have based my education and career on making sure I engage in work that assists others to improve both physically and cognitively. Working at John Knox Village for the past 28 years has enabled me to assist residents by promoting various specialized programs to help improve their spiritual, social, physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being.”

According to Gail Sutton-Pauling, Vice President of Hospitality at JKV, “Erik is truly in tune with our residents. He has an incredible knack for understanding their needs and desires, and he consistently implements programs and activities that resonate with them. His dedication and insight make a significant positive impact on the lives of our residents every day.”

Erik Nenortas, Fitness Manager at John Knox Village

Erik Nenortas, Fitness Manager at John Knox Village

Erik earned his Bachelor of Science in Recreation Therapy from the University of Florida in 1996. For 20 years, he dedicated himself to enhancing the well-being of residents at JKV through structured activity programming. Working closely with individuals of varying cognitive abilities, he embraced each challenge as an opportunity to foster meaningful connections and help residents maintain their functional abilities.

In 2009, Erik expanded his expertise by earning his Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) and Group Fitness Instructor certifications from the World Fitness Association. His passion for health and wellness led him to transition from Recreational Therapy to the JKV Fitness Team in 2017. Over the years, he continued to advance his skills, earning additional certifications, including AEA Aquatic Fitness Instructor, PWR! Moves Teacher, Group Meditation Certification, and National Academy of Sports Medicine Personal Trainer Certification.

In May 2024, Erik was promoted to Fitness Manager at JKV, where he now leads a talented team dedicated to helping residents achieve their fitness goals. His approach to his career is rooted in positivity, guided by the philosophy, “Let the beauty of what you love be what you do.”

Reflecting on his journey, Erik shares, “I am most proud of managing two departments — first, assisting residents socially and cognitively in Recreational Therapy, and now, as Fitness Manager. I love working with my team and supporting residents at every skill level.”

We invite you to learn more and experience our breathtaking campus, astounding amenities, remarkable residents and exceptional team members like Erik who all make JKV extraordinary.  Contact us today to learn more and schedule a visit.

JKV in the News: Celebrating an Emerging Role: Resident Technology Support

CAST’s Scott Code, in observance of Careers in Aging month, lauds the impact of and opportunities in teaching older adults “the language of technology.”

Scott Code, Program Director of Resident Technology at Selfhelp Community services, a LeadingAge CAST Patron was curious to learn how the role of Resident Technology Support has evolved over the years and asked our own Technology Engagement Coordinator, Jason Cook, about his trajectory.  

Cook tells LeadingAge he was inspired to pursue work in the field about 10 years ago, when he saw an older woman at the mall staring in confusion at a brand-new iPhone her daughter had just handed to her.  He realized that many older adults had never been taught the language of technology, and an entire segment of the population was being left behind.  

Cook founded and ran his own tech-support business serving older adults until the pandemic, moved to a technology consultancy, and then came in-house at John Knox Village.

Now, he devotes his energy to making technology more accessible and less intimidating for community members. He offers a variety of classes, covering everything from smartphone basics to navigating the community’s cable system, and introduced virtual reality events, where residents can explore the world from the comfort of the community’s tech center.

“One of the most rewarding parts of my job is witnessing those ‘A-ha!’ moments when a resident realizes they can see family photos on their phone, have groceries delivered the same day, or video call loved ones across the globe,” said Cook. “The peace of mind this service provides is invaluable.”

Read the full story here.

 

technology teacher helping a senior with her tablet

Jason Cook, Technology Engagement Coordinator for John Knox Village of Florida instructs resident Benita Ferrara on her laptop during a class.

 

Technology Engagement Coordinator, Jason Cook, offers one-on-one support and personal technology classes to help JKV’s nearly 1,000 independent living residents navigate technology on their devices.      

We invite you to learn more and experience our breathtaking campus, astounding amenities, the exceptional team, and our remarkable residents who are all part of what makes JKV extraordinary.  Contact us today to learn more and schedule a visit.

JKV in the News: Rita Reo, Resident Spotlight

Up, up and away:  John Knox Village resident looks back on her career as a pilot

Not too many of us can look back on our lives and say we helped break the mold.  However, John Knox Village resident Rita Reo can certainly lay claim to those bragging rights.   

In the 1970’s, many young women chose to pursue traditional careers like nursing and secretarial work.  Not Reo.  She was busy learning to master the art of flying the friendly skies — literally.  Reo, now 70, became a commercial airline pilot for U.S. Airways when most young women wouldn’t have dreamt of such a thing.  

Rita Reo

JKV resident and former commercial pilot Rita Reo. Photo credit Martin Lenkowsky/New Pelican

During her fascinating career, she flew many times with Chesley Burnett Sullenberger, known worldwide by his more familiar nickname, “Sully,” who in 2009 famously landed U.S. Airways Flight 1549 into the Hudson River when both engines were disabled after striking a flock of birds.  Also as part of her fascinating career, she recalls her experience flying on the tragic morning of September 11th, 2001.

Read the full story here.

We invite you to learn more and experience our breathtaking campus, astounding amenities, the exceptional team, and our remarkable residents who are all part of what makes JKV extraordinary. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a personal tour.

McKnights Senior Living: Technology Coordinators Help Operators in ‘Bridging Gaps and Trailblazing New Paths’

Technology is flooding into — and changing — senior living communities.  

Technology support no longer is a luxury but a necessity, as senior living residents bring wearables, cell phones and gadgets with artificial intelligence into their living spaces. At the same time, communities are scrambling to keep up with their residents as well as advanced technology that has become a necessity in everyday life.

Enter the technology coordinator, helping communities bridge the gap between lifestyle convenience and operational efficiency.

John Knox Village of Florida located in Pompano Beach recognized this need, and created a needed role in 2023.  Enter Technology Engagement Coordinator, Jason Cook, who offers one-on-one support and personal technology classes to help JKV’s nearly 1,000 independent living residents navigate technology on their devices.      

Read the full story here.

 

technology teacher helping a senior with her tablet

Jason Cook, Technology Engagement Coordinator for John Knox Village of Florida instructs resident Benita Ferrara on her laptop during a class.

 

We invite you to learn more and experience our breathtaking campus, astounding amenities, the exceptional team, and our remarkable residents who are all part of what makes JKV extraordinary. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a visit.