What a cool lesson to learn! Children attending the Growing Years Early Learning Center in Bedford went on a brain-freezing field trip to learn how to make ice cream. Thanks to Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard (Rita's of Bedford) for making learning a real treat! 🍨 (fb)

ALSM is fortunate to have exceptional residents, families, and team members who make our community truly special. Enjoy the first installment in our series, “Coming Together To Do Great Things!” A Full-Circle Welcome: The Louder Family’s Legacy with ALSM As we open our arms to welcome new cottage residents at The Oaks, it feels especially meaningful to greet The Rev. Larry Louder and his wife, Linda—a couple whose connection to ALSM runs deeper than most. For years, Pastor Louder was often the one offering the warm welcomes. Now, in a touching role reversal, he and Linda are the newest faces in our cottage community. Pastor Louder's bond with ALSM began when, as a young boy, he would accompany his father to work for Dr. Luke Rhodes—the visionary who founded ALSM. Those early days left a lasting impression. Young Larry spent countless hours at The Lutheran Home in Hollidaysburg, visiting, volunteering, and witnessing the deep compassion that would define ALSM's legacy. Over time, the Louder family became woven into the fabric of ALSM. To date, thirteen of Pastor Louder’s relatives—his grandmother, parents, aunts, uncles, and more—have called The Lutheran Home or The Oaks their home. Pastor Louder himself has served the organization in numerous roles, including Director of Development, Director of Pastoral Care, and as a member of the Board of Trustees. When the Louders moved to Centre County for Pastor Louder’s call to Grace Lutheran Church in State College, the connection to ALSM remained strong. When his mother, affectionately known as Tuckey, needed more support, she moved from her cottage at The Lutheran Home to personal care at The Oaks to be closer to Larry and Linda. Later, she returned to The Lutheran Home for skilled nursing care. Pastor Louder remembers her gratitude clearly. “She would say, ‘I’m good. I know I’m good and the reason for that is because I am here.’” He added, “I was happy she was there. She received quality care, and the staff treated her as if she was their own mother.” Linda Louder has also given generously of her time and heart to ALSM. Whether volunteering at the Acorn Shop, attending programs, or simply offering a kind word to residents and staff, she has long been a cherished member of the community. Today, she visits The Lutheran Home often, where her twin sister resides. “It’s a calling for those who work in long-term care,” Linda shared. “You can tell they love what they do. My sister doesn’t speak much, but she smiles—and I know she’s comfortable, content, and safe.” Though their roots run deep in both Blair and Centre Counties, the Louders have made their home in State College for many years. But when the stairs in their condo began to feel like more of a challenge, they started thinking ahead. “We’re in our mid-70s and realized it would only get harder to manage a house with multiple levels,” said Linda. “We attended an open house at The Oaks and knew a cottage would be the right move. We could keep the same doctors and church we love, all while living in a home better suited for our future.” Pastor Louder agreed: “It’s really nice here. We feel safe, and it brings peace of mind knowing there’s staff available to help when needed. I don’t have to mow the lawn anymore, and if anything changes in our health, we know we have options for more care.” The Louder family’s story is one of faith, family, and enduring commitment to a mission of care. From those early days walking alongside his father to a new season of life in a cozy cottage at The Oaks, Pastor Louder and Linda have brought grace, service, and joy to our community. We are honored to welcome them home. (fb)