Around The Cracker Barrel - The Refreshing at La Posada with Beth Ernst and Andrea Ott Telford - (Aired 11/28/2025)

This week on Around the Cracker Barrel, host Guy Atchley broadcasts from Posada Java to explore how La Posada at Green Valley keeps its campus updated, and future-ready. Guy is joined by Beth Ernst, Vice President & COO of La Posada Communities, and Andrea Ott-Telford, Director of Facilities, who break down the major investments and careful planning that go into maintaining one of Southern Arizona’s premier senior-living campuses. From annual capital improvements totaling $5.5 to $7 million, to designing brand-new amenities like the upcoming Cultural Arts & Crafts Building, La Posada’s commitment to continuous enhancement shines through.Beth and Andrea provide a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at how remodels happen—from full 10-year overhauls of resident homes to layout updates, new cabinetry, lighting, flooring, bathrooms, and more. With a 79-member facilities team and dozens of skilled craftsmen, La Posada completes more than 148 remodels a year, all handled entirely in-house—a rarity in the senior-living industry. They also discuss common-area renovations, major assisted-living upgrades, new elevator installations, and a campus-wide focus on safety, accessibility, and sustainability.The conversation also highlights La Posada’s strong culture of communication and community involvement. Residents regularly provide input through monthly meetings and resident-driven committees, shaping projects like the Secret Garden, Center Stage, and upcoming improvements. La Posada’s nearly 600 employees support everything from dining and transportation to wellness and security, with many team members staying a decade or more thanks to supportive leadership, generous scholarship programs, and meaningful connections with residents.As the holidays approach, Beth and Andrea share how the culinary team prepares to serve more than 700 residents and families for Thanksgiving—while also feeding night-shift employees to show appreciation for their service. The episode closes with an invitation for listeners to tour the campus, meet the residents, and experience firsthand why La Posada is known for exceptional care, strong values, and a warm, community-driven approach to retirement living.