When walking into the Crossings at Landis Homes, you never know what aroma will greet you. It could be rotisserie chicken, crispy bacon, or fresh baked bread, all wafting from the Owl Hill Bistro.
Enriching
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elicious smells are not the only thing that is welcoming in the restaurant. Willie Arnold, former
Bistro Manager, now Catering Manager, can often be found behind the counter, helping with meals for residents or chatting with the guests. “I grew up with a classic Southern Baptist family down south,” Willie says. “Every holiday was centered around food, always cooked in creative ways by my mother and grandma.”
After high school, Willie attended culinary school at the Art Institute of Charlotte and worked part- time for the Billy Graham Library and Headquarters, where he met Executive Chef Jean-Claude Mille. Jean-Claude was impressed by Willie’s work and immediately took him on as a mentee and sous chef. “I didn’t much enjoy cooking in the ritzy industry. I wanted a bigger meaning for the food that I make. I wanted to use my food for God’s purpose, for the love of God, and grow in that way,” he states. It was this passion that led Willie to work with Jean-Claude in various locations all over the United States.
After the tragic passing of Jean-Claude in 2016, Willie married his fiancé, Emma, and they decided to move back to Emma’s hometown in Lancaster County. Once they settled in, Willie took a job as the Lead Cook in West Kitchen at Landis Homes. During his five years at Landis Homes, Willie progressed from Lead Cook, to Sous Chef, to Owl Hill Bistro Manager and is now serving as the Catering Manager.
Willie is very health conscious when making food decisions. Te Calvin G. and Janet C. High Learning & Wellness Center location of the Owl Hill Bistro influences his food creations. He is always delighted to share information about the items on the menu with residents and team members. Willie consistently gives out recipes for his meals and performs food demonstrations for interested individuals.
“Willie is so good," resident Betty Tompson remarks. “He really cares about the food. He’ll add a bit of herbs and seasoning and it will completely change the flavor. What he does with food is amazing. He’s very careful and meticulous.”
Resident Arlene Clemens adds, “He makes the food here gourmet. It is extremely fresh, beautifully served, and delicious. Te mark of a professional is someone who makes something difficult appear easy – and Willie does just that with food!”
When asked what he enjoys most about working at Landis Homes, Willie states, “It’s the joy that I see when I bring food to residents. Food is a language, and I enjoy showing the love and joy of Christ through food.”
Landis.org | FLOURISH | Spring 2022 • 13
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