A PUBLICATION OF JEWISH SENIOR SERVICES® THE JEWISH HOME • VOLUME 101 • WINTER 2019

“I Didn’t Know You Did That”There is not a day goes by that someone says to us, “I didn’t know you did that.” The growth and expansion of services offered by Jewish Senior Services over the past decade has been through an important commitment of our Board of Directors to meet the needs of seniors in our community. The “continuum of care”, or full breath of service now offered is the largest in Fairfield County, and we are so pleased that the answer to most every question is “YES, we can do that!”

The tree below is a graphic representation of our

services, and throughout this issue of Chai Lights and on our website, www.jseniors.org, you can read much more. The goal is to help spread the word about what we do to your family and friends, so that people understand that we are here to help when a loved one needs not only skilled nursing, but also Assisted Living or Memory Care, Short term or Outpatient Rehabilitation, Adult Day Program, Home Care or Hospice, Geriatric Assessment or Medicare Care, and even Long Term Care support through our Senior Choice at Home® program. Please think of us as a resource, and let us know how we can help!

Women’s AuxiliarySpring Luncheon & Boutique 2019

The 2019 Women’s Auxiliary Spring Luncheon & Boutique will take place on Monday, May 6 at The Waterview in Monroe. Over 200 members and friends of the Women’s Auxiliary are expected to attend the afternoon, co-chaired by Rachael Diamond, Kate Fierman and Martha Zuckman. Leticia Moreinos Schwartz, chef and healthy lifestyle expert, will be the guest speaker. (www.chefleticia.com). This year’s Boutique is sure to be a shopper’s dream, as it will include both new and long-time favorite vendors selling items such as jewelry, clothing, gift accessories, and more. (To find a current list of vendors, go to www.jseniors.org and click on Special Events.) Reservations range from $118 to $250 per person. For more information about the event, please contact Susan Freed, Development Associate, at sfreed@jseniors.org or 203-365-6407.

INSIDETHIS

ISSUE

Slice of Lifepg. 3

Volunteer Luncheonpg. 6

Women’s Auxiliarypg. 4

Employee Awards pg. 7

Family Daypg. 5

Long Term Care

Institute on Aging

Rehabilitation Services

Senior Choice at Home®

Adult Day Program

Home Together®

The J Fitness Center

Child Development Center

Geriatric Assessment

Assisted Living andMemory Care Residences

Home Care and Hospice

100 Women Who Care Fairfield County Supports the Center for Elder Abuse Prevention

The Fairfield County, CT Chapter of 100 Women Who Care is a group of women who meet four times a year, each donating $100 to a worthy charity selected by the group. The Center for Elder Abuse Prevention was the beneficiary of their December donations, and to date has received $6,300. The Center is at the front lines of preventing elder abuse, scams, exploitation and neglect of elders in Fairfield County. With this influx of support from 100 Women Who Care, outreach and training can be increased to everyone in our community about the red flags, risk factors and reporting procedure of people being targeted for abuse and exploitation. During the evening, many 100 Women Who Care members shared their own personal stories of family members who had been scammed or robbed of assets by family members and ‘friends’. Only with robust community-wide vigilance and support, can this alarming cycle of targeting elders for abuse, exploitation and neglect be stopped.

Donate Your BirthdayBirthdays are special occasions and opportunities to spend time

with loved ones as well as receive gifts. Facebook now has an

option to turn your special day into a day of giving, not just getting.

The service is free to the user and non-profits are not charged a

fee either, which means everything that is raised from your birthday

fundraiser will actually go to your charity of choice. Please consider

making Jewish Senior Services your designated charity. Helping

those who cannot help themselves is a great gift anytime of the year.

Donating for your birthday on Facebook is easy! Just follow these

steps to set up a Facebook fundraiser for Jewish Senior Services:

1. Click Fundraisers in the left menu of your News Feed

2. Click Raise Money for a Nonprofit Organization

3. Select Jewish Home for the

Elderly of Fairfield County as

your charitable organization

of choice

4. Fill in the fundraiser details

and choose a cover photo

5. Click Create

6. Encourage your family and friends to participate!

To learn more about setting up a Facebook fundraiser,

visit www.facebook.com/fundraisers

Artwork from the Resident Art Therapy Program

Our Annual CampaignThe community’s generous support has helped us to sustain our mission of providing a safe, secure, and beautiful Jewish home, while also bringing the quality programs and activities to Residents that are so vital in enhancing their lives. These gifts to the Annual Campaign also help to ensure that despite an ever-challenging healthcare environment, combined with a growing aging population, we can continue to take care of our community’s seniors for this and future generations.

In one unexpected moment, you or someone you love may require healthcare assistance. Jewish Senior Services is here to help when that moment happens.

Please consider making a gift to the Annual Campaign today by calling 203-396-1000 or www.jseniors.org and click donate.

Thank you.

Chairperson and President’s RemarksAs we come to the end of the winter of 2019, we are so grateful to everyone who has made life possible on The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Campus. We reflect back on the many challenges and obstacles that we needed to address to create this community, and the many people who have made it special. Often we start with reference to the 330 people who live here, and their families

and loved ones who visit. Sometimes we talk about the nearly 900 staff members of Jewish Senior Services who dedicate themselves to serve those in our trust. Our heartfelt thanks are always with the hundreds of volunteers – of all ages – who choose to give a piece of themselves to our Mission. And we cannot miss the many hundreds more that we serve through our Community Services programs and activities, or the countless others touched by the other agencies who have their offices

and activities here. You will read more about all of these things in this issue of Chai Lights, as well as the Women’s Auxiliary and Men’s Club for their ongoing efforts to support our work. Our Foundation continues to reach out to bring resources into our organization to help us achieve our goals, and the hundreds of donors who make a choice to support us.

Our holiday celebrations are over, and now we begin anew, with another year ahead of us to build upon wonderful traditions and to make new memories for all of us.

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Kenneth I. Wirfel Andrew H. Banoff

1. Diane Lichtman and Erena Fitzgerald. 2. Howard Ecker at the Merkaz and JSS Chanukah Celebration.3. Sylvia Rosenthal getting ready for the Super Bowl. 4. Joshua Garcia and Adele Karnal at the Women’s Auxiliary Fall Gala.

5. Enjoying Hibachi lunch together. 6. Marc Frankel and Merkaz students working together to build a Lego menorah.7. Fernanda Branco, Leonard Sobel and Jenny Coba at Doo Wop Diner Day in Assisted Living.

8. Josephine Tramondo and Yasmin Otero enjoy the annual visit from Tzofim Israeli Friendship Caravan. 9. Roslyn Gottlieb and Andrew H. Banoff. 10. Fani Steinberger ready to ring in the New Year.

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Photo credit: Regina Madwed, Capitol PhotoInteractive

Fall Gala Photo credit: Regina Madwed, Capitol PhotoInteractive

The 2018 Fall Gala was a huge success! About 200 members of the community came together in support of Jewish Senior Services to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Women’s Auxiliary on Thursday, October 18, at The Patterson Club in Fairfield.

Co-chaired by Susan Cascella and Linda Lazinger, the evening was truly a night to remember. Tribute was paid to all members of the Women’s Auxiliary, past and present, with special recognition for all attending Past Presidents and their families. Guests were entertained by the musical comedy troupe Capitol Steps, bid on great items at the silent auction, read the beautiful commemorative journal and appreciated the gorgeous décor by Ruth Ridgeway Designs. $124,000 was raised to support many important programs for the Residents of Jewish Senior Services with $12,000 earmarked for the Work Activity Center.

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Thank you to all the businesses

who supported the Fall Gala –

Jewish Senior Services is extremely

grateful for your continued support.

PATRON

Morrison Community Living

PILLARS

The Kadden Group at Morgan Stanley Private Wealth Management and The Steinberg Forman Group at Morgan Stanley Private Wealth Management

KBE Building Corporation

Miller, Rosnick, D’Amico, August & Butler, P.C.

R.D. Scinto, Inc.

Value Rx Pharmacy

GUARDIANS

Cohen and Wolf, P.C.

Cruise and World Travel

Flagship Networks

HJ Sims

Marsh & McLennan Agency

Roland & Co.

PREMIERnyc.com

The Standard Companies

SUPPORTERS

Canon Solutions America

Connecticut Community Bank

Law Offices of Juda J. Epstein

Sacred Heart University College of Nursing

UnitedHealthcare

Yale New Haven Health

DONORS

Abraham L. Green and Son Funeral Home

Bladder Control Center of Norwalk

Chessco Industries

Gaffney Bennett & Associates, Inc

Hooker & Holcombe

OrthoCare Specialist, LLC

Mark Seiden Real Estate Team

United Capital

FRIENDS

BlumShapiro

Dworken, Hillman, LaMorte and Sterczala, PC

Expense Consulting

Goldman, Gruder and Woods, LLC

Medical Specialists of Fairfield, LLC

Perkins Eastman

Raintech Sound & Communications, Inc.

BUSINESS CARDS

A Quick Pick Crane Service

C & H Electric, Inc.

Clearwater Industries

Marlene Fischer Homes

Larry I. Gottlieb, D.D.S., F.A.G.D.

Abraham M. Hoffmann, Attorney at Law

LEW Healthcare Consulting, LLC

Sport Hill Service Station

Thank You!

Annual MeetingOver 50 women gathered in support of the Women’s Auxiliary at the Annual Membership Meeting, co-chaired by past President Sandy Young and Board Member Elaine Stibel. Members enjoyed listening to Debbie Levison, author of The Crate: A Story of War, A Murder and Justice, share highlights of her book which intertwines her parents’ holocaust experiences with a recent crime. Past President Linda Lazinger welcomed and installed seven members to the Women’s Auxiliary Board of Directors, which includes Cindy Epstein, Vivian Epstein, Marsha Goldman, Janice Millman, Sherry Sopin, Ruth Twersky and Evie Wiesner.

Game DayThe Women’s Auxiliary hosted its third annual Game Day on Monday, January 28, attracting over 90 women, in Bennett Hall. It was a casual afternoon filled with friends playing games such as bridge, canasta, mah jong, etc. Board Members Ann Small and Roslyn Stein co-chaired the event.

For More InformationFor further information on how to become involved with the Women’s Auxiliary or the Men’s Club, please contact Dayna Hayden, Development Director, at 203-365-6409 or dhayden@jseniors.org. Women’s Auxiliary annual membership dues are $36 and life membership is $250 (payable over three years). Men’s Club annual membership dues are $75 and $150. Life membership is $1,000 and George Lipton Fellow membership is $2,500 (both payable over three years).

Celebrity BreakfastPhoto credit: Regina Madwed, Capitol PhotoInteractive

The third annual Celebrity Breakfast, hosted by the Men’s Club, was held in September. 200 guests filled Bennett Hall to hear Earl “The Pearl” Monroe, four-time NBA All-Star and Superstar Member of the New York Knicks, tell of his time in the NBA. Monroe shared stories of teammates, travel and lessons learned during his 12 years in the world of basketball. The conversation was followed by questions from the eager crowd. Mitchell Adelstein and Brian Miles co-chaired the morning. With the help of 20 waiters (pictured) and sponsors R.D. Scinto, Inc and Koskoff Koskoff & Bieder, over $30,000 was raised.

Annual Meeting The Men’s Club hosted their Annual Meeting on Thursday, November 1. A variety of beers and beer inspired foods were served for all attendees to enjoy. David Levine thanked outgoing Men’s Club President Jerry Minsky for his hard work and dedication. Through the Lipton Invitational, the Celebrity Breakfast, the social event at Brewport and our various membership drives over $226,000 was raised by the Men’s Club during Jerry’s tenure. The Board is delighted that Jerry plans to continue to be an active participant in Men’s Club activities. David then welcomed Brian Miles as the new President, making him the 16th to take on the position and continue the mission of the Men’s Club. Approximately 30 friends of Jewish Senior Services and Men’s Club members enjoyed the evening.

Family Day 2018Photo credit: Regina Madwed, Capitol PhotoInteractive

Over 500 Residents and family members enjoyed the Family Day Celebration at the Men’s Club’s annual picnic on September 16. The community gathered to spend time with loved ones with a 70th Anniversary for Israel as the theme, complete with Israeli music and food. Ruth Ridgeway Designs transformed the Celebration Courtyard and Bennett Hall into an atmosphere that matched the festive fun-filled day. Guests enjoyed live music from Klezmerfest, plus magic and balloon twisting by Melissa Russo.

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On Monday, June 24 the Men’s Club is hosting the George Lipton Golf & Tennis Invitational at Rolling Hills Country Club in Wilton. The day will consist of a morning Pro-Am golf tournament and an afternoon tennis tournament and golf tournament. Concluding the day’s golf and tennis will be a celebratory dinner reception, tournament award presentations, and a tribute to the legacy of George Lipton. This annual event raised over $70,000 last year.For more information about the event, please contact Susan Freed, Development Associate, at 203-365-6407 or sfreed@jseniors.org.

Planning 33rd Annual George Lipton Golf & Tennis Invitational

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Rehab ReunionThe Goldstein Rehabilitation Center reunion is an annual event for clients and staff. The many stories of successful recoveries created an inspiring atmosphere for those in attendance. Catching up with friends, sharing time and laughter was a great way to spend an evening.

Celebrating VolunteersOur annual luncheon celebration of Volunteers is a great opportunity

to say thank you to a group of talented, compassionate and committed

people who make a difference! “These amazing individuals are an

extension of family and staff. Their contributions of time support Residents

and our organization and they truly help balance quality of care and

quality of life,” commented Ellen Ashkins, Director of Resident Life.

JOIN THE J

Bring This In for a3-Day Guest PassAt 5:00 a.m. on September 1, 2016, the doors to the new J Fitness Center opened to rave reviews. Three years later, we have built an amazing community of J members, and a gym with amenities and staff second to none. The J is your local neighborhood gym, where everybody knows your name, offering you an upscale experience at a competitive price.

• 50+ Weekly Group Fitness Classes – All Inclusive • Most Referred Gym in the Fairfield,

Trumbull and Bridgeport Area• Customized Programming with Accredited

Personal Trainers• Industry Leading Equipment• 25 Yard Pool• Private and Group Swimming Lessons

For more information, contact Kim Fox, Director,at kfox@thejfitness.com.

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Employee Holiday PartyEmployees celebrated with amazing hors d’oeuvres, carving stations and a wide selection of delicious desserts prepared by our own talented chefs, at the annual Holiday Party! The evening was complete with music, dancing and singing, raffles and lots of laughter. “This celebration is such a special event and a great opportunity to thank the exceptional people who are so committed to the Residents, clients and the services we provide to the community”, commented Linda Ciszkowski, Vice President & Chief Administrative Officer.

Giving ThanksIn celebration of the Thanksgiving holiday, employees shared what they

are thankful for with colleagues during a delicious turkey dinner with all

the fixings, prepared by Dining Services and served by management!

We are certainly thankful for“All that They Do.”

CHAIRPERSON’S AWARDMaureen Arszyla • Jean Robert Occean • Adele Reddick

JACQUELINE PURCELL NURSING AWARD*

Esther Thomas

MARY WILLIAMS NURSING ASSISTANT AWARD*

Elizabeth Williams

CHARNEY FAMILY AWARDVeronica Molina

MARIE CAYO HUMANITARIAN AWARD*

Lourdes Medina

COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDHeather Powell

ELAINE “LANEY” POLLACK AWARD*

Jacqueline Wake

SADIE FREEMAN AWARD*

Linda Biancardi

PRESIDENT’S LEADERSHIP AWARDLaurie VanCleft

*Award in memory of a dedicated employee

Employee AwardsIn 2018, we honored 89 employees with 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and

35 years of service. We also honored the following employees

for their outstanding service:

100 Years by Ruth Rosenblatt

I ask for your indulgence as I travel down memory lane for a few minutes.

My children and I were fortunate to have had the privilege of living with and knowing well, Sidney Rosenblatt, a person of high integrity and quality. He set an example for his children which followed into the next generation and beyond.

Sidney and I met through mutual friends in front of the Paramount Movie House in Manhattan, and were separated only by the war period, and then the final days of his life. Together, we enjoyed fine art and music even without much money. Going to the Metropolitan Opera House, standing while others were seated, and reversing during intermission, allowed us to hear the same fine music almost free, but we were there!

This enduring love of music has been a lifelong pleasure taking the form of choral group participation and playing and teaching the piano.

Family vacations were fun when the children were young, though when they got older, the kids outgrew Mom and Dad and made their own plans. My children were fortunate to grow up having a large extended family. The relatives on my side of the family tree (the Payensons) taught holiday observances and practices. I believe that to some degree, some of our younger family members still adhere to these rituals, which

makes me so proud. The fun loving relatives come from the Rosenblatt side. They knew how to laugh and dance, and these characteristics also traveled down to the next generations.

In 1996, I entered a new phase of life – that of widowhood. It taught me how to live alone, have a meaningful life, and not be a burden to my children.

For over a dozen years, my life was spent at the Atria Assisted Living Facility in Plainview, Long Island. There I was fortunate to make many close friendships. Some of my favorite activities there were bible study, book club, participating in and leading Friday afternoon Shabbat services, singing and playing piano for the choir, and participating in group activities with the neighborhood “grandpal” middle schoolers.

As my health needs changed, I moved to the JSS, and life became different. I am taking part in programs that are not as physically active, but are in line with my tastes and abilities. I enjoy knitting with Anke and going to current event discussions, among other activities.

As I am approaching my 101st birthday in October, I have been asked to what I attribute my longevity. I have an answer.

For most of my life, I have been surrounded by love, especially when I met and married my husband and had my children. With each child born to us, I knew life could not get any better. They were there for me in good times and bad, and when Sidney passed away, my children were the rock I leaned on. At this point in time, I do not know which child I gave birth to and which I inherited through marriage. I love them all. The icing on the cake has been my eight grandchildren and their spouses, as well as my seven beautiful great-grandchildren.

Now you know my secret.

Jewish Senior Services®4200 Park AvenueBridgeport, CT 06604

Kenneth I. WirfelChairperson of the Board

Andrew H. BanoffPresident & CEO/ Editor

Contact us at203-365-6400

www.jseniors.org

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Save the Dates 2019

MAY

Monday, May 6Women’s Auxiliary

Spring Luncheon & Boutique

The Waterview, Monroe

Wednesday, May 15Coleman Lecture Series

Jewish Senior Services

JUNE

Monday, June 24Men’s Club

George Lipton Golf

& Tennis Invitational

Rolling Hills Country Club,

Wilton

Family Mail

My mom is thrilled with her therapy

sessions and is making great

progress.

- L. C., Rehab Client

Family Member

What a great place for care and

compassion.

- D. R., Long Term Care

Family Member

Assisted Living and Memory Care Residences • Long Term Care • Rehabilitation Services • Day Services • Home Care • HospiceAdvocacy and Education • Senior Choice at Home® • Home Together® • Child Development Center • Fitness Center

For address changes,

to add a friend or be

removed from the

mailing list email us at

chailights@jseniors.org

or call 203-365-6494

To obtain an application for skilled

nursing or assisted living, please

contact us at 203-396-1024.

There is no application fee

or obligation.

A special thank you to our Federations Jewish Senior Services is a recipient agency of the following community organizations.We thank these organizations and the communities for their support. Federation for Jewish Philanthropy of Upper Fairfield CountyUJA-JCC GreenwichUnited Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan, Darien