Dennis J. Magid, President

Jertish Home.for the Elduly

A Special lvlessage toOur Federations

Tl" Jt-;th Ht., lt , ,*?fu-ngenry of thelbllowing ranmunity

organizations:

Greenwih Jewish Federation, Inc.

United Jetuislt Federation af Wstpart,

Weston, Wilton, Norwnlk, Inc.

Jewish Center for Community Serties

Jez;ish Federation af Greater Danbury

Jewish Federatian af Greater

Stamford, New Canaan and Darien

We thank these organizationsand the communlties for

their support!

Eliot BlackChairman,JHE

Dennis B. PosterChairman, JHE Foundtrtion

DennisJ. MagidPresident,JHE

BarbaraJ. TavrowExecutive Directoa JHE Faundation

ZoE StetsonEditor, Chai Lights

2 Shades of GreyDesign U Layaut, Chni Lights

Chai Lights

2 CHAI LIcI]rs

Administrative Perspective

The NewMillenniumThe Mission of theJewish Home is to

provide an integrated network of high

quality healthcare and related personal

services, primarily for the frail Jewish

elderly, in an environment which

enhances and respects Jewish values,

traditions and lifestyles, thus enabling

each individual to achieve the highest

quality of life attainable.

Our Vision ofJHE for the year 2005 is

to be the premiere provider of care for

the elderly. As such, JHE will assure

its position as the first choice resource

for family and health care

professionals. It is imperative that we

both affirm and ensure our Mission

and take all steps necessary to move

toward our Vision.

Recently, the B oard voted

unanimously to adopt a compre-

hensive 3-year plan. This represented

the commitment of a very hard-

working Chairman, Carl Glickman,

our Strategic Planning Committee,

numerous department heads and other

staff who participated in our task

forces. Our job now is to fully

implement the identified priorities -

and we are extremely committed to

this.

Our first prioriry is ensuring quality.

There are akeady some exceptional

examples of our staff's creativity and

teamwork to better the lives of those in

our trust.

Many Residents experience physical

barriers, so we developed a "Learn

Computer" program, detailed in our

cover story.

A year a1o, the Work Center

underwent a major renovation to

consoiidate two work spaces into one.

This created an environment that is

pleasant and comfortable, better lit,

and has improved social interaction for

Residents and Adult Day Health Care

clients.

In Adult Duy Health Care,

recreational and inter-generational

programming provides mental and

physical stimulation, and promotes

feelings of success among participants.

A support group and a resource center

have been established for caregivers.

And this year, c^regivers and the

public also took advantage of free

blood pressure screenings.

Alumni of our national award-

winning rabbinical student internship

program state that they received more

from JHE than they ever gave.

These examples just scratch the

surface of the wonderful new or

enhanced programs and services at the

JHE. Many more are identified

throughout this issue o{ Chai Lights.

Qrality of care and quality of life are

our foremost priorities. They are

inextricably tied to our Mission and

Vision, and will continue to be our

greatest focus. 'll

cover

with the opportunity to

allow more Residents

to participate in the

program, we feltprivileged to be able to

strengthen the support

ofthe project."

Ileene Chernoff sees

the positive effect

the program has

had on physicallychallenged Residents

and those suffering

from different levels ofdementia. "We use the

Internet to browse to

places and things that

they can remember, so

continued page 7

WrNrr.p. / 2001

Away Physical BarriersThe sight of a mouse no longer

scares Resident Jerome Maltz.A computer mouse, that is! Mr.Makz is one of 20 Resident

participants taking in-house

classes designed to put the

Internet at their fingertipsl

Now, with the click of a mouse,

Jerome and his classmates

communicate with familymembers all over the world and

surf the Net. According to

Ileene Chernoff, Director ofInformation Technology, and

the program's co-founder, "The

Residents have been able topick up the use of the mouse

with relative ease, and it is

exciting to watch them as they communicate with their

grandchildren in different parts of the country."

The unique program called "Learn Computer" is the

brainchild of the JHE s Information Technology and

Therapeutic Recreation departments, and involved the

teamwork of departments throughout the Home.

The JHE Foundation's Endowment Fund provided the

start-up for a three computer lab in the library. The

Sustaining Donor Program has enthusiastically

committed to purchasing additional computers, reference

materials and assistive devices for the physically

challenged. A program coordinator will be hired to assist

the Residents and coordinate Volunteer schedules to

maximize the lab's use.

Betsey Selkowitz, Chairman of the Sustaining Donor

Program, said, "The computer lab was created out of an

initial contribution given to the Endowment Fund toenable the Residents to learn how to navigate the Internet

and use electronic mail. The measure of the program's

success is in our Residents' enthusiasm for learning.

When the Sustaining Donor Committee was presented

Resident Bess Horowitz is assisted by (leftto right) Ellen Ashkins, Director ofTherapeutic Becreation, lleene Chernoff, Director of lnformation Technology,

and Laura Mack, Volunteer.

t.It*

?'

for a few moments they are not frustrated about not

remembering the present," she said.

'After our class visited the Wailing Wall and left a prayer,

I heard one Resident comment that people say you can't

be in two places at once - and last week we were in Israel

and Fairfield at the same time. When you are in 'two

places at once' and communicate around the world, you

have indeed broken down all the physical barriers

associated with living in a nursing home," she said.

Special adaptive equipment, supplied by the Sustaining

Donors, has even made surfing the Net possible for

severely disabled Residents. "Their ability to

independently navigate the Net has been a real boost to

their self-esteem," said Ellen Ashkins, Director ofTherapeutic Recreation and the program's co-founder.

One ambitious 87*year-old Resident, Ruth Golding, even

enrolled in an on-line course offered this fall by Tunxis

Community College. Secretary of the Residents'Council,

Harold Wolfson, is developing his own web site where he

plans to showcase his poetry. And another Resident

Over 200 guests attended the Twenty-

seventh Annual Meeting of the JewishHome and the JHE Foundation. The

festive event, with an election year theme,

was a look back on the year's

accomplishments - with an eye to the

future. It was also the opportunity for the

Home and Foundation to elect Officers

and Directors, and to bestow

humanitarian honors and recognition

awards on individuals who have put the

Jewish Home at the forefront of long-

term care. Charles S. Weiss, Past

President of the Men's Club, hosted the

Annual Meeting of the Membership

as its Chairman of the Day.

In his welcoming remarks, President

Dennis Magid recounted the Home's

accomplishments over the past year.

"We have been blessed with visionary

thinkers, hard workers, generous

supporters, and great leadership," he

said. "You can be justifiably proud ofour achievements to date."

Foundation Chairman Dennis Poster

Self-professed "computer maven" and ResidentHarold Wolfson took the podium to share how the

new computer lab has "opened a new world" to him.

then conducted the Foundation's

Annual Meeting. Carl Glickman,

Chairman of the Foundation's

Nominating Committee, presided

over the election of Officers and

Directors, and Foundation Executive

Director Barbara Tawow delivered her

annual report.

"The assets of the Foundation and,

especially its Endowment, now reflect

measurable success," she said. "We

have developed gifts, pledges and a

credible bequest program which,

Corrine Lotstein, current member of the Women's Auxiliary anda past member of the JHE Foundation Board of Directors,presented the Louis Lotstein Award for Distinguished Seruice,to Michael Stashowef current member of the Foundation's

enhanced by our growing

investments, afe now

bringing us to a place where

we will soon be poised to

contemplate our next

fundraising strateg"y. We are

committed to enriching and

creating programs that

make our Home a place that

not only addresses excellent

health-care, but embodies

all that is associated withliving in an environment

that our Residents m ythink of as Home."

\ - .t-.

Women's Auxiliary President Marilyn Flom (standing left) and Muriel Brown,Past President, (standing right) share a moment with Valerie Schwartz (left)

and Lisa Zinner (right).

4 CHAr Lrcurs

A higtrlight of Barbara's report was the presentation of the

Endowment Fund Campaign video entitled "Our Precious

Legacy." The video features a testimonial from U.S. Sen.

Joseph Lieberman and other moving, first-person accounts

of the Home's impact on the lives of our Residents, their

families and friends.

Keeping with tradition, awards for excellence were presented

to talented lay leaders and professionals. Dennis Poster

presented the first of two Special Recognition Awards to

Muriel Brown for her more than 2}-year commitment to the

Women's Auxiliary.

"Muriel Brown has been a steadfast supporter of the

Womenb Arxiliary chairing and working on a multitude ofevents and finally rising to the Auxiliary's Presidency in

t\

1998," he said.'As President, she oversaw the fulfillment ofthe Auxiliary's $1 million pledge to the Endowment FundCampaign, helping to secure the future for generations ofelderly in need. Muriel's vision and tenacity further led the

Women's Awiliary to embrace a second commitment of $1

million to the Endowment Fund, ensuring the financial

resources required to preserve and enhance the JewishHome's reputation for excellence. "

Charles Weiss then presented the second Special

Recognition Award to Carl Glickman. Carl was cited forhis "devotion, wise counsel and visionary leadership" and forhelping to position the JHE to meet the health care

challenges of the future.

Carl serves as Chairman of the JHE's Strategic Planning

Committee and an Officer of both the JHE Board and

Foundation Board. He is also a member of the Home's

Finance Committee, and for the past two years has served

as Vice Chairman of theJHE Board.

The Louis Lotstein Award for Distinguished Service was

given to Michael Stashower.

Mr. Stashower joined theJHE's Board of Directors in 1988

when he was elected to serve as Governor from the

Westport community. Elected to Director in 1990, Mr.Stashower was installed as Treasurer in 1993 and served

until 1995. He was Treasurer again tn 7997 and served three

terms. He is currently on the JHE tr'oundation's Investment

Committee.

A special speaker was Resident Harold Wolfson, a selF

professed "computer maven." In a heartfelt account, he toldhow the JHE's computer technology classes have opened a

world to him beyond the Home's walls.

Mary Young, 1.999 recipient of the futhur and Gladys

Lunin Humanitarian Award, presented this year's award toMarcia Lieberman, Honorary Director for Life of the

Women's Auxiliary and mother of U.S. Sen. JosephLieberman.

Because of the many demands of the presidential campaign,

Mrs. Lieberman videotaped her acceptance in which she

said, "The Home is dear to my heart. I'm very proud to

receive this award. My love to everyone at the Home - and

that will be my home one day."

Charles Weiss concluded the program and joined guests inenjoying a delicious brunch.'R

WrNrEn / 20015

Benefits Abound Each Day at Adult Day Health Care

As our population continues to live

longer, seniors face many age-related

illnesses. These illnesses, which often

include Alzheimer's Disease,

dementia, stroke or Parkinson's, are

sometimes not severe enough to

require around-the-clock care or

nursing home residence. This is where

facilities like the JHE's Adult Day

Health Care (ADHC) center PlaY

such a valuable role.

Adult Day Health Care can be manY

things to many people. At the Jewish

Home, the area's senior citizens have

received much needed services for 23

years.

ADHC is open MondaY through

Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30

p.m. and is staffed bY trained and

caring professionals who heiP

older adults rise to their fullest

level ofindependence and dignity.

Transportation to and from the

Center is also available.

According to Director Donna

Lange, RN, "Our Program

provides a safe haven for older

adults with varying needs and

abilities - people who can benefit most

from companionship in a medicallY

secure, therapeutic and social setting.

Our clients can tap into the resources'

medical clinics, theraPies and

amenities available at the Jewish

Home in addition to participating to

the varied daily activities we offer on-

site." Donna also stressed that

intangibles like increased feelings of

self worth and a sense of purpose are

other benefits of client participation.

Kosher lunches and snacks are

provided daily, as are a varietY of

games and activities that keep clients

mentally and phYsicallY engaged.

Client-made goods that ranged from

watercolors and framed Prints to

crocheted baby clothing and holiday

ornaments were a big hit at a recent

craft fair at the Home where all of the

proceeds benefit other client activities.

Students from nearbY Notre Dame

High School also participate in inter-

generational activities that have

included an annual Prom and luau.

'Just as important," said Donna, "when a

loved one is in our program' caregiving

families receive essential emotional

support and respite time to restore

themselves or simPlY meet

weekday obligations. Families

discover true piece of mind, secure

in the knowledge that their loved

one is in a safe and secure daYtime

setting."

Donna and her staff recognized,

however, that the caregiving role

could be a stressful exPerience'

This is why she started a suPPort

group that meets on the first

Thursday of every month at 6:30 P.m.

at the Center. Participation is open to

those with a familY member in the

program, as well as communitY'iresrdents. '{ I

For nore infornation about the caregivers'

supplrt group or to receive a free trial visit for

a family memben please call (203)365-6470.

6 CHel LtcHrs

IHE S ic PIsnGenerotesThe JHEs new strategic plan has created

quite a buzz w\thin the Home - and has

generated excitement outside. Nearly a year

in the making, the Board*approved plan has

the potential to position the JHE as the

premier provider of care for the elderly and

the first choice for families and health care

professionals by the year 2005.

Carl Glickman serves as Chairman of the

Strategic Planning Committee, a group that

identified six priorities that form the basis ofthe strategic plan. Carl and his Committee

have been instrumental in overseeing the

work of small planning groups comprised ofenthusiastic volunteers from the JHE'smanagement and staff and the Board

of Directors. Catherine Wynkoop, an

experienced consultant, facilitated the group

discussions and planning process.

Q"lity of Resident care and employee

worklife issues were identified as a major priority along with marketing, community

outreach and image; maintaining financial security; expanded information systems

and technology support; expanded continuum ofcare; and streamlined governance

and communications.

Listed under each priority are action points that focus staff attention and

organizational resources on successful implementation of the plan. Over the next

three years, teams comprised of employees and the Strategic Planning Committee

will take the necessary steps to ensure the JHEt place among the finest long-term

care providers in the country, notable for proactive and creative programming,

cultural relevance and technological innovation.

New teams are now being formed to address each priority and move the overall plan

forward. Enthusiasm for implementation is high. In his remarks at the Annual

Meeting, JHE Board Chairman Eliot Black said, "It is an excellent tribute to the

collaborative efforts of so many members of management and staff from all

departments, plus high level lay leader support. Nearly everyone has been a part ofthis dynamic learning process."

Eliot thanked Chairman Carl Glickman and the Committee's membership for their

"perseverance and vision." He also acknowledged the importance of such an

undertaking and the positive consequences that will flow from it. "The implemen-

tation of this action plan will surely bear fruit for many years to come," he said.

Updates will be provided in future issues of Chai Lights.'n

SurfingAwayPhysical Barrierscontinuedfrom page 3

recently e-mailed his college

fraternity and received his

lifetime membership after 63

years.

Betsey Selkowitz urges

potential donors to consider the

benefits of expanding this

exceptional program when

making pledges to the 2001

Sustaining Donor Campaign.

"Contributions will help keep

our Residents connected to

their loved ones and to the

world," she said. 'Just look at

what a few Residents have

achieved in such a short time.

Imagine how many more willbenefit in the future!"

"Our Residents can now travel

all over the world without

leaving the Jewish Home," said

Ileene Chernoff. "The ability to

use the Internet has opened up

a whole new world to them.

Each week someone learns

something new - and usually

it's me."

For additional information about

the 2001, Sustaining Donor

Campaign and the Residents'

computer lab, please contact the

JHE Foundation at (203) 365-

6409 or e-mail Ski Lawenza at

slawenza@jhe.org. 'F

WrNrr.p. / 2001 7

women's auxiliary 0

Marilyn Flom is NewWomen's ArDdl iary Pre sidentThe Women's Auxiliary celebrated its 32nd General

Membership Meeting in October and saw President Muriel

Brown pass the gavel to Marilyn Flom.

"Muriel's dedication to the Auxiliary these past two years has

been remarkable," said Chairman of the Day, Lynne Weiss.

"She sets an example for all of us with her boundless energy'

tireless dedication and good humor."

Marilyn Flom was installed as the Arxiliary's 15th President

along with Vice Presidents Judy Weiss and Diane Serlin and

President-Elect Lynne Weiss.

Barbara Tavrow, Executive Director of the JHE Foundation,

said, "We congratulate Muriel on her very successful presidency

and look forward to working with Marilyn Flom in the next

two years. The Women's Auxiliary has been the jewel in the

crown of JHE supporters and we are grateful for their never

ending efforts. Muriel joins a remarkable group of past

Pictured from left to right are JHE President Dennis J. Magid with Muriel

Brown, Marilyn Flom, and Barbara J. Tavrow.

presidents who give so much more than just their time...they

give their love and commitment to making this the finest

Home for our Residents."'tl

Members of the planning

committee are (from left).

Spring Luncheon

Chairman Judy Weiss;

Helene Bingler; Karen

Wolf; Joan Carp; Muriel

Brown; Marilyn Flom;

Lynne Weiss; Sue

Ci mmino; Ch e ryl S ilkoff;

and PatW Green.

Mark your 2001 calendar for Monday, June 4, the

date of the Annual Spring Luncheon and Boutiques

sponsored by the Women's Arxiliary. The full day of

fun and feasting begins at 10:00 a.m. ^t

Rolling Hills

Country Club in Wilton. Shoppers can browse the

boutiques before the 12:30 p.m.luncheon and choose

from an arcay of unique goods handcrafted by the

Northeast's finest craftsmen and artisans.

Proceeds benefit the Homeb Residents. Please make

reservations early for this traditionally sold-out event

by contacting the Auxiliary at (203) 365-6488 or by

e-mail at womensarxiliary@j he.org.'ll

GalaclimpsesVeteran performers Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme treated over

600 Jewish Home supporters to renditions of music by America's

best loved songwriters at the 2000 Fall Gala. The event, sponsored

by the Women's Auxiliary was held at the Qrick Center for the

Arts at Fairfield University.

The tented dinner featured a live auction that raised over $40,000

to support the Auxiliary's second $1 million pledge to the

Endowment Fund Campaign. Following Steve and Eydie's

unforgettable performance, a winnin g raffle ticket was drawn for a

2001 Volvo automobile.

Benefactor and sponsorship participation

helped the Women's Auxiliary to raise

over $90,000 to benefit Resident care.

Thanks to Chairman Diane Serlin and the

hard working Fu[ Gala Committee that

included Lynne M. Weiss as Auction

Chairman, and Janet M"gtd and Alana

Fodeman as Raffle Co-Chairmen. Ginger

Speicher was Chairman of the dinner. 'llCaptions fron top to botton

Muriel Brown, (left), lmmediate Past President of the

Women's Auxiliary, plses with Gala Chairman

Diane Serlin.

JHE President Dennis Magid greets Boni and Allan Lang before dinner.

Selling raffle tickets at the pertornance are, from left, Judy Weiss, Janet B. Magidand AIana Fodenan.

Pausing atthe evening's celebration are, from left, Corrine Lotstein,

Elsie Steinberg and Marcia Lipton.

Mary Young, (left) and

Siri Laurenza toast the

festivities.

WrNrBn / 2001 9

i;&

staft S

"I haoe had 18 wonderfullears

at the Jewish Home. It is one of

the premier geriatric complexes

in the country), and I am

- DonnaJoye

Allison Szewczul and YarmaalMetellus were crowned Aueenand King.

HapPyHolidays!The December Staff Holiday Party was

one of the livelies, {tb *$t successfirl in

our history with ndarly 300.ffiployeesenjoying an evening bf dining, dancing and

friendship. Parties were also held at the

JHE for those who had to work. The

kindness of family members and other

donors helped make this fun-filled and

memorable event possible. 'n

l. Therapeutic Recreation Departmentemployees toast the New Year.

2. President Dennis Magid; Chairman

Eliot Black; and Harry Sheketoff,

Honorary Directory for Life and

Chairman of the Facilities Committee,

enjoy the evening.

3. Games like this balloon stuffingcontest were a hit.

4. Dennis, Eliot and Tawana Williams setthe night to music.

5. Did we have fun or what?

confdent it willcontinue its

exemplary care."

Donna loyce RetiresAs the JHEs Senior Vice President of Health Services and Administration,

Donna Joyce was a familiar face to both Residents and stafl and a respected

administrator. To many who knew and worked with Donna through the years,

her December retirement marked the end of a distinguished career that

significantly touched many lives. Her enthusiastic and dedicated leadership at the

helm of health services at the Jewish Home will surely be missed.

President Dennis l.4agid worked closely with Donna and echoed the sentiments

of many when he said, "Donna has been a highly energetic Vice President and

her dedication to making our Jewish Home one of the finest caregiving

institutions in the country is unparalle1ed. I can unequivocally say that she willbe

gready missed by our Residents, families, and the Board and staff of the JHE."

Donna's professional accomplishments at theJHE never diminished her personal

touch. A family member praised her "wonderful honesf' and said, "It was

Donna who so kindly and sensitively explained (my mother's condition) to

me.,.my deepest appreciation for helping me and guiding me through these last

weeks."

Donna joined theJHE in 1983 as the Director of Staff Development and Nurse

Clinician, In 1987, she became the Director of Nursing, and three years later

assumed her recent position and the responsibility of supervising several

departments with nearly 400 employees. ,

Donna helped to secure accreditations for programs and services, and was

instrumental in providing clinical experience opportunities to student nurses

from area colleges and universities. In 1996, she was specially recognized for her

contributions to nurse training by Sacred Heart University's nursing programs.

Two years earJier, she had received the University's first Special Leadership

Award.

Donna has also taught leadership and management courses toJHE staff and has

lectured on Medicare and Medicaid at Sacred Heart University. 'n

WrNrp.p. / 2001 rI

/ltt&lr

,t

{,{.'

lli:":*' -tr\ill Is7*\*qc*!ir "

\gJ ?/2 -trri

around the home sExercisingtheir Right

Residents cast their votes for President via

absentee ballot with assistance from the

Fairfield League of Women

Voters. The activity was

coordinated by Shelley

Berman, Assistant

Director of Social

Services.

I :l 4at' '-., ..3 11,

:J'

,ilr rr i.-\:,

1:w.xffi --q.'ffi wr4

'qd_ . .:ilii,

&ntr'tr:isa'.!

J,-"4

t,

"Repairing the World"The concept of tikkun olam, repairtng the world, is an

ancient tradition. Its focus is tzedakah or the

performance of just action, especially charitable giving.

While this concept is rooted in Judaism, the tenets ofall religions point to rightfi.rl conduct as the path to

improving the World.

As philanthropy becomes more sophisticated and the

options for charitable giving are increasingly plentiful,

we must strongly beiieve in the worthiness of the

charities we select and the integrity with which donor

support is used. Donors should consider contributing to

institutions that are committed to furthering ethical

mitzvat, those acts of loving kindness that have a direct

bearing on relieving societal problems and enhancing

the quality of life of others.

The Jewish Home for the Elderly is a prime example ofan organizatton that meets these criteria. Here, we seek

to provide a home that engenders warmth and love and

that provides the finest healthcare to those who share

their lives with us. It is an environment that raises hope,

teaches skills, and reinforces self-esteem. At JHE, our

Residents are encouraged to achieve maximal self:

sufficiency and opportunities for comfort and joy.

Our programs make us proud. Residents, many in their

nineties, are speaking to their grandchildren and great-

grandchildren on the Internet. They are contributing

foundation

their skills in

Activity Center

enjoying outings

and concerts.

our Work

and are

to theatres

At JHE, lives can rejuvenate.

Lives can begin. Our skilled

and capable professionals are

wholly committed to the

enrichment of our Residents'

good health and well-being.

We are confident in our

capabilities to serve those

viewpoint S

BarbaraJ.TawowExecutive DirectorJHE Foundation

who rely on us. But, we need your help. The resources

to enable us to work uncompromisingly with our

Residents and short-term patients are scarce, and the

opportunity for us to offer the very best care in the most

appropriate environment is dependent on those of you

in our community who recognize the need and believe

tn tileleun olam.

Please consider theJewish Home one of your priorities.

Your decision to support us in whatever way you can

will reap benefits for many years. We have multiple

opportunities from which you may choose. Please call

me to arrange a visit to JHE and see for yourself why

the Talmud describes tzedakah as "equal to all the other

commandments combined.",ll

W Siri M. LaurettzaPromotedThe JHE Foundation is pleased to announce the promotion of Siri

Laurenza to Assistant Director of Development. In her new role, Siri

will direct the Sustaining Donor Program, supervise special events

activities and spearhead Foundation and corporate grant writing efforts.

Siri has been at the Jewish Home for more than 1.4 years. For the past

nine years, she served as Foundation Associate and Special Events

Coordinator, and has worked diligently with the Women's Auxiliary and

Men's Club.

Congranrlations are also extended to Siri on her recent marriage. 'l?

Eighty-six JHE employees were

awarded for their years of service at

the 22ndannual recognition dinner in

May. The 'Americana at JHE"themed event featured a festive,

red, white and blue millennium

tribute to the employees' 5, 10,

1.5,20 and 25 years of service to

Residents. It also recognized the

"Class of 2000" - those

employees who were part of the

Kuriansky expansion 10 years ago. As in years past, Jacquelyne

Solomon, Director of Human Resources, chaired this

celebration as the official way of recognizing the JHE's most

valuable asset...its people.

President Dennis Magid thanked the audience of nearly 200 for

their strong work ethic and teamwork. "I am confident that I

speak on behalf of the Residents and their families in thanking

you for your tireless devotion to the 360 Residents we care for

today and the over 2,400 who have called the JHE home

through our almost 28year history" he said.

Following the service awards presentation, JHE Chairman Eliot

Employee Aruards frjlr..,ln'- outs'fandins

Black bestowed two Chairman's

Awards on deserving emPloYees,

Susana Ortiz (not shown) of

Environmental Services and Karen

Julian of Social Services. Co-workers

nominated these sPecial women for

displaying all of the qualities that

Other recognition awards were

given to Donna Reda, CNA, who received the Mary Williams

Certified Nursing Assistant Award; Lydia Baruga, LPN, who was

given theJacqueline Purcell Professional Nurse Award; and Alice

Ogwok, CNA, who received the Charney Family Award from

family member Ginger Speicher. Each of the honorees was also

nominated by their peers and received an engraved plaque and a

$100 check for demonstrating exemplary professionalism,

outstanding care and extraordinary dedication.

Two employees joined the Qrarter Century Club for theit 25

years of service.The names of Luisa Senese, Laundry Supervisor,

and Evelyn Nash, RN, Head Nurse, will be engraved on the

attractive plaque located in the tndet Lobby. 'll

Gonnecticut Nurcing ShortageThrcatens Patient Gare

The reason these ladies are sniling is because four of them recentlybecame LPNs. Formerly Certified Nursing Assistants, they underwent a l4-month training program at Bullard Havens that was paid for by the JHE. lnreturn for this sponsorship, the women have agreed to stay employed by the

JHE for at least twl years. This is one of the creative ways that the Home is

responding to Connecticut's nursing shoftage. From left to right are:Shaneen Johnston; Taheerah Muhanned; Mary Jane Negron; Diann Papp,

Director of Nursing Education and lnfection Control; and Tanisha Ewing.

Connecticut's nursing homes, hospitals and home care

services are among the best in the nation. However, the State's

current nursing shortage threatens the quality of care we have

come to expect from our health care facilities and will reach

crisis proportions, if not immediately addressed.

Nurse vacancy rates in Connecticut are up 50 percent since

1995. More than 3,200 nurses have left the State or given up

licenses since 1996. Three of the State's nursing schools closed

in recent years. The remaining schools graduated 616

Registered Nurse candidates this year, down from 915 in

1996.

The JHE has addressed this issue by hiring nine nurses from

the Philippines. We continue to advertise, and have also

created a scholarship program for Certified Nursing

Assistants (CNAs) at Bullard Havens in Bridgeport. Four ofour CNAs have already graduated and three more have begun

this ]"4-month course to become Licensed Practical Nurses.

But this is still not enough!

Today, there are 43,400 licensed registered nurses in

Connecticut and their ^ver^ge

age is 48 - three years older

than the national avetage. Many of these professionals are

.ln!:al" lli

Connecticut's hospitals, and nursing hornes and home care

associations haae recently launched a public-priaate ?rlgram to

address the nursing shortage. Recommendations include:

* Recruiting a new generation of healthcare workersthrough a comprehensive public relations effort;

* Encouraging high school students to consider the benefitsof a rewarding nursing careerl

* Encouraging Connecticut's institutions of highereducation to expand health care education opportunitiesthrough more support for our colleges and universities,and additional financial aid for Connecticut students whoplan tojoin the health care field;

* Researching and developing new, innovative trainingprograms, such as night, weekend and internet-basedprograms;

* Enacting regulatory reforms to provide flexibility in theuse of staff so that nurses and health care workers canspend their time providing patient care; and

* Instituting a comprehensive campaign to attract andretain the most talented people to nursing and health care

professions.

stafr oexpected to retire within the next four years. We must

work together to find solutions to filling the vacancies

created by these retirements.

To alleviate this crisis, Connecticut lawmakers and

health care providers must immediately join together in

a public-private partnership to find and enact solutions

to recruit, train and retain health care workers - or the

sick and elderly of our society will not get the care they need

and deserve.

Fifteen years ago, Connecticut was one of the first states in

the nation to deal with the teacher shortage, and a similar

effort is needed now to deal with the nursing shortage. The

State, hospitals, nursing homes, health care organizations and

nursing associations must now work together to bring

thousands into the nursing profession.

Any solutions must have the strong support and endorsement

of lawmakers, health care providers and the public. Reaching

out to the public to explain the seriousness of the nursing

shortage is the first step in encouraging an outpouring of calls

and letters to the Governor, legislators and he media. Tell your

stories and make this a priority legislative issue this term. rll

WrNrr,R / 2007 17

Sustaining Donors Enhance

Qraliry of Resident LifeAn August dinner celebrated the more than $150,000 raised by the 2000

Sustaining Donor Campaign to benefit Residents. Chairman Betsey

Selkowitz proudly announced to the 150 guests that the money was used to

refurbish the Main Dining Room and renovate the Work Activity Center,

one of the first geriatric sheltered workshops in the nation.

"We are eternally grateful for our Sustaining Donors and this evening gives

us an opportunity to show that appreciation," Betsey said. "Each ye r we arcjoined by over 1,200 donors to support Resident programming and capital

projects that

simply cannot be

funded due to

I

I

Members of the 2001 Sustaining Donor Committee meet to discussstrategies for the coming year. Seated leftto right are Lena Stoogenke;Betsey Selkowitz; and Betg Liebensohn. Standing are Siri Laurenza;Milton Sutin; Clifford Steinberg; Herbert Steinhardt; Jay littman; LouisGinsberg; Lynne M. Weiss; Alice Weissman; Deborah Zuckerman; andZoE Stetson.

Enjoying the celebration are (leftto right) Eileen and Carl GlicknaEliot Black, Chairnan of the Board; Barbara J. Tavrow, ExecutitDirector of the JHE Foundation; and Betsey Selkowitz, Chairmanthe Sustaining Donor Program.

dwindling government reimbursements. Our program is an opportunitfor donors to join together and make quantifiable advances in the lives o

our Residents."

In 1999, the program purchased a 36-passenger, wheelchair accessiblr

bus. It accommodates up to 16 wheelchair-bound Residents who ride ir

comfort to off-site therapeutic recreation programs.

Funds have also been used to support the award-winning muscl

strengthening program, purchase physical therapy equipment, and instal

a security system that monitors the safety of Residents with Alzheimer'

Disease. The 2001 Campaign will enhance projects like the Residents

computer lab. "F

Pressmans Do laygroundThe sound of childrent laughter ca heard in the new

play and enjoy a

Svlvia and Paul

Pressman, long time JHE supporters.

The Pressmans have brightened the

which helps the Center

"The jren and to otr,Residents," said

of the JHE Foundati

teer at the JHE since 19!

partment. Both she and

children's lives

were

The Child Care Center has a new playground thanks to thegenerosity of the Pressman family. Pictured are SylviaPressman (center), surrounded by her children andgrandchildren.

administrator for 34 years, and Paul was anactive in Gmple Israel, Westport,

playground at the Child Care Center. Tvariety offun equipment thanks to the generosi

h their

rtles

like vis;

Fund'g

rB CHar LrcHrs

Paul,

as an

Fio*lof"-ify F""1

:-'- A south-of-the-border theme set the

tone for the Men's Club's Ninth Annual

Family Day celebration in September. Sombreros

were in abundance during an afternoon of children's activities, music and

outdoor family fun.

"Family Day is our favorite event," said Martin Burger, President. 'As

many as four generations gather each year in the Home's courtyard for

a few hours ofcelebration and togetherness."

A highlight was a performance by Cantor

Congregation Rodeph Shalom in Bridgeport.

"The Men's Club would especially like to

wonderful memories for our family members,"

Marty said.

Stephen Cohen was Chairman, and a dedicated team of Men's Club

Board Members and Junior Volunteers assisted with decorations and

planning the days attractions. The free annual event is open to all Mens

Club Members, FamilyMembers, and Board Members of theJHE and

JHE Foundation. rfi

President Dennis Magid greets GeorgeSamuel Shapiro and Bernard Dommu.

'fe I

ir6*lxRs,3,*r.;:::,irxl:llilIl: l&;; iirLE*W-'&i eausing for a family portrait are Anna and Gerry Maisner.'.' and daughters, Jessica and Alyssa.

Yeshaya Grama of

thank Anna and GerrvNlaisnerwho have trworked on our Familv Dav since irc *Finception and have helped to build

q ;

fumicnaet Weinstock, lmmediate Past President, waits for1,

fi face painting with his children, Zachary and Kimberly.

klFd4*fb*\{ -#rtdlF-S LI l- '

WTNTER / 200I 19

Pausing before teeing off are (fron left)

Michael Weinstock, Paula Mandell, and John

Whalen.

The 2000 George Lipton Golf and

Tennis lnvitational has been touted

as an outstanding success by the

Board of Directors of the Mens

Club. Record breaking sponsorship

helped to raise over $85,000 to

benefit the Men's Club's second

pledge of $250,000 to the Home's

Endowment Fund Campaign. The

event was held on Monday, June

26th ^t Rockrimmon Country

Club in Stamford and nearly 200

golfers and tennis players

contributed to the event's success.

A& r"'t*r.rgr {lp14;1

st ! ilra:a lulrrf,l;dlt.iJreg' Ss*sfs*{ri,r$

George Lipton, Chairman, welcomes guests t0 the event.

"My heartfelt appreciation to this year's underwriters,

sponsors and participants," said George Lipton, for whom

the outing is named. 'A committed team of Board

Members helped us to deliver what rve believe was one of

the finest events in our history. We would especially like to

"::l:

Winners of the first low net in the afternoon

golf tournament are (from left) Bill MitchelL

Harold Muftha, and Mike Usdanoff'

thank Bill Mitchell and

family for sponsoring

dinner, Joe Sweedler for

again providing gifts for our

guests, and the Lapine family

for their generosity on behalf of

our raffle," he said.

Mark your calendar for the

200L Golf and Tennis

Invitational, which will take

place on Monday,June 25th. 'F

his

our

once

2o Crrnt Ltculs

Maftin S. Burger (right) newly installed President of the

Men s Club, greets UConn Men's Basketball Coach Jim Calhoun.

VisualTherupyResidents will soon be able to choose from

an array of prints to brighten their rooms -

and spirits - thanks to an Art Cart program

sponsored by the Women's Auiliary. The

fut Cart is based on studies demonstrating

that participants experience positive healing

and stress reduction through the placement

of transcendent landscapes and stilllifes in

their rooms.

The JHE-owned print collection willbecome a permanent lending llbrary for the

Residents' enjoyment, healing and reni:wal

of spirit. Residents will have the option to

rotate their artwork.

A committee of JHE representatives willselect the images, with participation from

artists and geriatric therapists. Ellen

Ashkins, Director of Therapeutic

Recreation, and her stafl will distribute and

circulate the prints.

Marilyn Flom, President of the JHEWomen's Auxiliary strongly endorses the

project. "The Auxiliary's mission has always

focused on offering support to projects that

meaningfully adda dimension to the quality

of life of our Residents. The fut Cart willsurely do a gteart deal to raise spirits and

promote Resident involvement," she said. 'R

Ji- Calhoun Guest Speaker atMen's Club Annual MeetingUConn Huskies' Men's Basketball Coach Jim Calhoun drew a record-

breaking crowd of nearly 200 members and guests when he spoke at the

Men's Club's 17th Annual

Meeting.

Marty Burger, the Club's

newly installed President,

spoke for the enthusiastic

audience when he said, "We

are grateful to Mr. Calhoun

for his generosity. It was a

thrill for our guests to meet

him and to have a chance to

discuss his championship

coaching methods." He

extended the Men's Club's

appreciation to Board chairman of the Evening Altan Alper (left) congraturates

Member Bill Mitchell for MichaetWeinstock, Immediate Past President.

contacting Coach Calhoun

and coordinating his appearance.

Highlighting the evening was a tribute to Michael Weinstock who served

as President of the Men's Club for the last two years. Martin Burger was

installed as President, along with Vice Presidents Allan Alper; NeilLieberthal; Dr. Stewart Gross; and Edward Burger. Leonard Leader was

installed as Secretary; and Dr. Howard Zinner was named Treasurer.

Dr. Stephen Moskowitz was appointed Assistant Treasurer. .ll

WrNraR / 2007 2r

Volunteer Awards Dinner SalutesOne Million Hours of Seruice

Over 250 Volunteers,

staff members and

guests attended the

25th Annual Volunteer

Awards Dinner at the

JHE last summer. The

event celebrated ^

significant milestone -

one million hours

of service that our

Volunteers have given to

the Home's Residents

and staffl

From Left President Dennis Magid; Barbara Tavrow;

Janet Gordon; Evelyn 0chsner; and Michael

Silverman enioy the festivities.

President Dennis Magid and chairman Eliot Black saluted

individuals from communities throughout Fairfield county who

were given service hour awards for their contributions. Marilyn

Zimmer, Volunteer Coordinator, and Ellen Landowne, Volunteer

Statistician, presented the awards to 150 committed Volunteers for

their 1"00 to l-0,500 hours of individual service.

Special guest speaker U.S. Rep. Christopher Shays paid tribute to

the Volunteers and congratulated them for giving over 150,000 hours

ofservice tn7999.

The evenings highlightwas the presentation of theJHE Volunteer

of the Year Award to Evelyn Ochsner' According to Janet Gordon,

Director of Volunteer Services, "Evelyn has distinguished herself by

giving generously of her time and love for nearly six years. She truly

exempli{ies the spirit of volunteerism."

Another award was presented to Deb Fail1aci, Director of the work

Activity Center, and her staff for the caring relationship they have

with their Volunteers.

Barbara Tavrow; Executive Director of the JHE Foundation,

presented two young Junior Volunteers, Michelle Lee and Diana

shapiro, with the Mathilda and Julius Fleischer Junior Volunteer

Award for their outstanding commitment to community service

through volunteerism.

If you are interested in learning of the many volunteer opportunities

available at the JHE, please call Janet Gordon at (203) 365-6472 or

e-mail her at jgordon@jhe.org. 'F

22 Cutt LtcHts

Hadassah ChaptrAdoptsttResident GrandmothersEight young women from Westport's Hadassah chapter have

adopted JHE "grandmothers" through a new program called

Adopt a Grandmother. The adoptive "granddaughters" and their

children now brighten the lives of their Resident grandmothers

through visits, phone calls, gifts and shared projects.

The collaboration with the JHE was initiated by Sheri Warshaw,

Westport Hadassah's community outreach coordinator. "I have

always had a passion for working with the elderly," she said. "I have

two young children who are now in school, so I had time to devote

to a project."

Sheri called Janet Gordon, JHEb Director of Volunteers, with her

idea about adopting a grandmother and said the two "bonded

instantly."Janet had been interested in starting a mother/daughter

program of her own - and the idea took off

Janet worked with Ellen Ashkins, Director of Therapeutic

Recreation, to identi$' Residents who could benefit from one-on-

one visits. She also organized an orientation for the Hadassah

volunteers where they each received the name of theirgrandmother. The women also got some how-to tips on bonding

with their new friend that included activities that the two might do

together.

According to Janet, "Each Resident grandmother has been visited

at least once and they love the interaction. In fact, Sheri and her

adopted grandmother, Fanni Hepner, were the subject of aJanuary

feature story in the Connecticut Post newspaper. We anticipate that

this wonderfirl program is the start of a long relationship between

Hadassah and the Home.".l'?

Jr,qAn Va/.'*AzowChanging the Future

Ifyou have a desire to help others and are interested involunteering a few hours of your time, we can help you.

Applications are currently being taken for the theSummer Junior Volunteer Program. Interested applicantsranging from 14 and on, please contact the VolunteerDepartment directly at (203) 365-6453

When you walk into Gertrude Glickmant room at the Jewish

Home, you are welcomed by the warmth of a proud mother who

immediately escorts you to the

bronze sculpture created by her

son, Carl, and the rolodex of

photos of the beautifrrl Glickman

family. It is a fitting introduction

to those values that magnificendy

charactertze Carl and Eileen and

the lives they lead.

Carl and Eileen Glickman,

residents of Westport for more

than 25 years, have three

daughters, Rachel, Susan and

Janet and four grandchildren

with one more on the way. In

March, the Glickmans will

Family man Carl Glickman poses with (from left), daughters Rachel and

Janet; his mother Geftrude, who is a JHE Resident; wife Eileen; and

daughter Susan.

successfril outcomes including tenures at General Foods and

Ovaltine, where he served as president.

Carl enjoys a number ofpassions

that keep him busy. His

sculpting was recendy featured in

a prominent iocal gailery. He is

an avid sailor and looks forward

to his morning walk on the

shores of the Long Island

Sound.

It is the Jewish Home that

occupies a gre t deal of Carl's

generous time. He is an Officer

of both the JHE Board and the

JHE Foundation Board. He is

also a member of the Homet

Finance Committee. In the past

celebrate their 40th anniversary their first encounter having been

at aBar Mitzvah of a mutual relative.

Eileen, a graduate of Hunter College, is a classically trained singer

who performs in the choir of Temple Israel in Westport, at our

Jewish Home, and at schools and other community organizations.

Eileen's repertoire ranges from folk and popular music to operatic

arias. She has taught Hebrew school for many years at Beth Israel

Synagogue in Westport and is committed to Jewish community

life.

Carl, raised in Brooklyn, attended Columbia University and New

York University, receiving degrees in engineering and an MBA,

respectively. He served in the Korean War, where he was

decorated for bravery. Soon after, he brought his business acumen

to the corporate world where he led several companies to

two years, Carl has chaired the Strategic Planning Committee,

which has resulted in an exciting blueprint for the Home's future.

Carl's work atJHE has earned him the resPect of many of our lay

leaders who value his professional input and selflessness. He was

presented with the coveted Special Recognition Award at the

JHE Annual Meeting in October.

Carl's frequent presence at the Home allows for plenty of time to

visit with his mother, Gertrude, an active and busy Resident. She

is a grand raconteur whose pride for her children, grandchildren

and great-grandchildren is boundless.

We are gatefirl to have Carl and Eileen in the Jewish Home

family and our Home is richer for the generosity and love that the

Glickman family shares with us. 'Fl

Jewish Home for the Elderly175 Jefferson StreetFairfield, CT 06432