The CALMRA Communicator The CALMRA

The CALMRA
Communicator
Newsletter for and about CALMRA, INC.
(serving people with cognitive disabilities)
5020 Sunnyside Avenue, Suite 206, Beltsville, Md. 20705
Ph: 301-982-7177
Fax: 301-982-7805 TDD: 301-982-7804
www.CALMRA.org
2012
No. 4
CALMRA’S MISSION: The Mission of CALMRA, Inc. is to improve the lives of persons with developmental disabilities by providing the highest quality residential or other support services in an ethical and loving environment.
2012 CALMRA Board of Directors
Sheila Saville, , President
Sarah Henry, Vice President
Kathy Labukas, Secretary
Alan Schwartz, Treasurer
Patricia Savory
Joseph W. Lowell, Jr.
Hazel Roeder
Fred Windbeck
Elizabeth Tornquist
Joan Echols
Bill Halloran
David Saville
Mark Mazz
Stu Eisen
Sara Henry
William Dent
Lois Funk/
Melynda Pawulak
Administrative Staff
Nancy Tolbert, Executive Director
Danna Zacharek, Director of Operations
Mary Ellen Denny, R.N.
Kelsey Jackson, Director of Finance
Raghad Mohamed, Director of Human Resources
Susie Thompson, Director of Day Services
Peter VanHouten, Program Administrator
Brenda Zupancic, Program Administrator
(Open), Program Administrator
Velma Paris, Program Administrator
Emily Brown, Office Manager
Sharron Spain, Administrative Aid
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and the Annual Dinner & Silent Auction held in
September. CALMRA also holds its annual gift
solicitation campaign in November - so please
remember to give generously to help support
those that we serve. Monies from these events
help to: fund renovation to their homes, provide
bonuses to their caregivers, and to celebrate
with family and staff at the annual family picnic.
Page Index
Letter From the President...................................... .Pg 1
Letter From the Executive Director...…………….Pg 2
Annual Attendance Recognition………………….Pg 2
Birthdays/New Employees….…………………….Pg 3
Gift//Donation……….………….………………...Pg 3
Flu Shot Info…….……………….………..……...Pg 4
CALMRA’s Dinner & Silent Auction……………Pg 5
Annual Golf Tournament……….…………...........Pg 6
Electronic Newsletters……………………………Pg7
Day Program……………………………………...Pg 7
Staff Appreciation Invite...…………………. …...Pg 8
News From The Homes…………... ……………..Pg 9-14
Community Support Program……………… ……Pg 16
Giant Gift Card Order Form……………………...Pg 17
I hope to see you all at the Annual Meeting in
December.
A Letter from the President
Sheila Saville
Calmra is celebrating its 20 year anniversary! I
believe our founding mother, Mary Solko,
would be so very proud of what she and many
others helped us to achieve. Mary and other
family members saw the need for a loving home
environment for their children to move to when
they were no longer able to care for them.
Now, as many those children (our residents)
age, we find the need for more and more handicapped accessible features in our 16 homes.
Everyone at Calmra has been working diligently to obtain funding, have plans draw-up, and
complete remodeling as needed. This year
alone, we will complete 5 new ramps and 2 new
accessible bathrooms. Kudos to our Director of
Operations, Danna Zacharek and the Facilities
Committee members (David Saville, Mark
Mazz, Fred Windbeck, Carolyn Windbeck, and
Bill Dent) for their work in achieving these
renovations.
Two successful fundraisers were held this last
quarter, the Annual Golf Tournament in July
will be held on the second Tuesday. It is at
this meeting we review last year’s activities
and vote in Board Members for the upcoming
year. If you or anyone you know thinks they
would like to become an active part in
CALMRA, please forward your information!
We’d love to have several new members for
the nominating committee to review!
Wishing you all a colorful fall filled with
health and happiness!
Fall marks the time for changes…as the
weather becomes cooler and more livable, we
see schools back in session, schedules back to
regular routines, leaves on trees changing
colors, etc. etc. Here at CALMRA we also
have changes going on.
We welcome Mahawa Jamiru as the new
Community living Supervisor (CLS) at our
Gavin home. She is new to the position but
not to the home or agency as she has worked
there in the FT position for the last year.
Welcome to your new role within CALMRA!
We are also welcome a new Program Administrator (PA), Shirley Smith-Yates. to complete our administrative team.
We are gearing up to start our new strategic
planning process. We hope to develop a plan
that will take us into the next 5 years with a
clear roadmap of where we want to be and
what services we need to provide. Our last
plan called for a Day Program and the result
of all that planning is our Mary Solko Senior
Center.
Last month’s Dinner and Silent Auction was
a great success thanks to Sheila Saville and
her committee members.
Everyone at
CALMRA is grateful to our generous supporters and donators for helping make what
we do a bit better!
We are also gearing up for our Staff Appreciation Day in November…I personally think
CALMRA has the most caring and committed staff ever!! I am so proud of the work
they do caring for and assisting our residents
and Senior Program participants. I always
get compliments on the care they receive
from outside consultants, physicians, licensing staff, and families. Kudos and thanks to
all of you!!
Don’t forget December-our Annual Meeting
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Congratulations to the following employees who were awarded extra vacation time for keeping their sick leave usage below
5 days in the last fiscal year.
Olamiposi Blessing Adesoji
Sonia Akakpo
Sabainah Akinlosotu
Emily Brown
Cassandra Chijoke
Hawa Dosumu
Marc Etonenkwelle
Joyce Fisher Young
Judy Friday
Cinda Gilford
Anita Harvell
Shenekwa Hutchinson
Martha Ibikunle
Isata Jalloh
Lisa Jardine
Lateef Kadiku
Louis Kamara
Adeola Kunrunmi
Tammy M. Money
Elfreda Musa
Rose Nah
Dorcas Olaleye
Shamsideen Onabiyi
Olanrewaju Oshodi
Daniel Oyewole
Velma Paris
Robyn Roundtree
Esther Salubi
Lajuan Sistrunk
Sharron Spain
Danna Zacharek
Lateef Kadiku 12/02
Paula A. Lafemina 12/15
Anita Haruell 12/15
General Donations
CALMRA would like to recognize
the following participants who
have celebrated or will soon be
celebrating their birthdays:
Jennifer Torrico 10/4
Terry Sherman 10/6
Monique Champion 10/17
Alvin Brown 10/25
Lois Funk 11/1
Patricia Gautier 11/7
David Windbeck 11/28
Antonio Benton 12/8
David Ferrara 12/10
Julie Thornton 12/15
Karen Harpster 12/24
Gwendolyn Nyschot 12/28
Godwill Achu
Shanika Brown
Sharon Conto
Mamie Lahai
Adrgboyega Sholarin
Tyrone Anthony Allison
Musa Marray Bangura
Olumayowa Enoma
Edwige Vanessa Matchim Fodoup
Chimma Uzoaku Ugbor
Audrey Lynae Yondji
Barbara Tunstall
Mamie Lahai
Chimma Ugbor
Fadare Rilewa
Donald Funulola
Shirley Smith-Yates
CALMRA would also like to
recognize the following staff who
have celebrated or will soon be
celebrating a birthday:
Dorcas Olaleye 10/1
Emily Brown 10/3
Velma Paris 10/8
Sonia Akakpo 10/15
Genet Gebrehiwot 10/26
Audra Mitchell 11/9
Josephine Gboyor 11/11
Yetunde Ogwuazor 11/15
Shenekwa Hutchinson 11/20
Mahawu Jamiru 11/24
Kavaljeet K. Sethi 11/25
Olamiposi Oyeniyi 11/26
Sharron Spain 11/29
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Damasus United Methodist Church - Harwood
House Thrift Store
James Lanagworthy
R. Doyle
Day Program
John & Hazel Roeder
Gerald Gough
Barbara & Cecil Torrico
Matilda Bradford
James Lanagworthy
Kathy Labukas
William Gautier
Joan & Lester Echols
McKnew Family Trust
Household Donations
Kathy Labukas
(Washer and Dryer)
Stuart Eisen
(Cell Phones)
In Memory of
Thomas Wilson
Dorothy Gay
Barbara Rosenberger
Dr. Gordon Rosenberger
GET YOUR ANNUAL FLU
SHOTS TODAY!!!!!
This is the season to protect yourself and family! There have already been cases
reported by the Public Health Influenza Alert for Maryland Providers. In the past
CALMRA has offered flu shots on-site at a reduced price to staff, family of staff
18 years of age and older and Board members. However due to the lack of participation last year, we will no longer offer the on-site service. In checking locations near the CALMRA Office the following walk-in locations are available to
get your annual flu shot:
SecureMedical Care
10452 Baltimore Avenue
Beltsville, MD 20705
(301) 441-3355
Discounted Price: $25.00
Rite Aid
10456 Baltimore Avenue
Beltsville, MD 20705
(301) 937-4020
Price: $29.00
Including “FREE Coupon
Booklet” to be used storewide
If you have medial insurance check with your primary care physician to see if
you qualify for a free flu shot or reduced rate.
Remember....……..this is the beginning of the flu season
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This year’s event, held at the Sheraton Washington North in Beltsville, MD, Sept. 8, was
attended by approximately 170 family, friends,
guest, residents, and staff-the largest attendance yet!
Vacation weeks on Sanibel Island, FL, Southern Shores, NC, and Ocean City, MD were
among the auction items guests could bid upon.
There was something for everyone including
sports memorabilia, luxury gift basket items,
theatre and sports tickets, golf, wines and spirit
baskets!
Entertainment this year was by our DJ, Dean
Schroyer. It was great to seer everyone having
a good time on the dance floor, in conversation,
and around the auction tables. The food was
Italian to match our theme, which included
Chicken Parmesan, Italian Sausage over noodles with various sauces.
Proceeds raised from this year’s event were
over $9,000! Thank you to those that attended
and we hope to see you again next year.
Many people helped make this a successful
event, but we especially want to thank our
sponsors: ALCO Pharmacy and Mullen, Sondbergh, Wimbish & Stone, PA (Certified Public
Accountants & Business consultants).
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CALMRA Golf Tournament was sponsored
by RBC Wealth Management held at the
beautiful Harbourtowne Golf Course in St.
Michaels, MD. The weather was perfect with
almost no clouds in the sky, about 85 degrees and a slight breeze!
We started with 32 golfers and all had a great
day! The winning foursome lead by Cal Vail
came in at 12 under! The longest drive was
for men was won by Stuart Eisen! -with a 6
iron to the green on number 1.
CALMRA netted about $4,500 for the day.
This came from a combination of golfers,
mulligans sold and our fantastic sponsors!!
Thank you all!!!
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Electronic
Newsletters
For all persons that prefer to read the CALMRA
Communicator on line, we ask that you let us
know so that we can remove your name from our
Quarterly mailing list. The newsletters are available for viewing on the CALMRA website,
www.CALMRA.org. If you do NOT want to
receive the Communicator via snail mail (US
Postal Service, please let Emily Brown know this
by calling (301) 982-7177 or by writing to us at
5020 Sunnyside Ave., Suite 206, Beltsville, MD
20705 or you can send us a email at:
ebrown@Calmra.org.
In the month of the July the ladies wanted to go to
Hawaii!!! Instead we brought Hawaii to us! The
ladies had their 1st Luau. All the ladies showed off
their grass skirts, and flowers in their hair. We had
a wonderful Hula dance instructor who gave a fun
Hula lesson to a nice Hawaiian beat. Of course
you can’t have a Luau without a tasty cold drink
with an umbrella, pineapples and coconut bars.
This was a wonderful summer event.
Summer sure flies when you’re having FUN!!!
The ladies are looking forward to the cooler
weather and the changing of the season’s as Fall
awaits us.
CALMRA’S Day Program kicked of the summer
with our 1st Annual Barbeque. The Barbeque was
held at Murkirk Park in Laurel, MD. The ladies
had a great time as they played games, listened to
music and had a sing a long. The ladies were fully
entertained by our comical staff. We can’t forget
the most important part of the barbeque - the
FOOD!!!!! The Barbeque menu consisted of juicy
hamburgers (grilled by staff), fresh fruit, potato
chips and a nice green salad. The ladies are already talking about the next one.
Support CALMRA
with no cost to you!
Before buying online, go to the website,
www.goodshop.com, and select CALMRA as
your organization. Then link to one of the 700 big
-name stores hosted by the site (Travelocity, Best
Buy, Amazon.com…). GoodShop will automatically donate up to 37 percent of your purchase to
CALMRA!
In the months of August and September the ladies
continued their daily community outings. Some of
the new community outings were, The United
States National Arboretum in Washington, D.C.,
Anne Arundel County Fair, A Tribute to Michael
Jackson at the Publick Playhouse in Cheverly, MD
and a lunch outing at Arundel Mills Mall.
Finally, we want to WELCOME BACK Ms.
Frances Kelly to the day program!!!
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You are invited
To CALMRA’s
Staff Appreciation Event
Open to all Staff and Resident’s Family Members!
When? Tuesday, November 13, 2012,
11:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Where? Sheraton Hotel
4095 Powder Mill Road, Beltsville, MD 20705
(Near movie theatre – across from Giant)
Why? We Appreciate You!
Please RSVP by November 5, 2012 to
Emily Brown (301) 982-7177
Free for all CALMRA Staff, $25.00 for guests
Indicate one of the following meal choices:
Herb Roasted Pork Loin w/sautéed apples, served w/a
bourbon sauce
London Broil with Mushroom Sauce served over fettuccine
noodles
Jerk Chicken Breast served with wild rice pilaf
Tri-color tortellini with a rose sauce
Includes: Coffee, Tea, Punch and Dessert Table
See you there for:
Door Prizes and Lots Of Fun For All!
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Lois, Liz and Judy
Judy, Lois, Liz,
Audra and
Audra’s Mom
BEECHVUE
We visited many new places, went to New York
and visited the Statue of Liberty on the ferry.
Marilyn took the ferry over to Connecticut for the
day and went to the zoo while visiting. We went
on a short trip to Virginia for a weekend visit. We
went to the Shrek Feast at the Gaylord Hotel in
Oxon Hill, MD and got to meet all the characters
from the movie, Shrek. Everyone had a fantastic
time. We really enjoying sitting out on our front
porch in the evenings, relaxing and talking to our
neighbors. We hope everyone had a wonderful
summer, as we all did.
ALLVIEW
Hello to all our friends and CALMRA family! We hope everyone had a safe and fun
summer! We sure enjoyed ours! In July the
ladies went to Dewey Beach! Thank you
Julie and Mrs. Kenney for sharing your
beach condo with us! Both of our staff
Yemisi and Elfreda celebrated another birthday in July.
We are excited about Halloween and the other
upcoming holidays. We look forward to seeing
all of our family’s and friends for the Holidays!
BEAUWICK
Our secret wish for this winter is lots of snow, on
The last three months were hot but also very the weekends, because we love going to our Day
exciting. During this period, the guys at- Programs during the week!
In August, the ladies enjoyed a nice visit
from Audra’s mother! We cooked her a
lovely dinner while she was here. Audra’s
mother enjoyed the ladies and took pictures
with them so that she could share with her tended the musical concerts at the Olney
friends back home in Philly.
Shopping Center that were held there on
Thursdays. David and Andy were always
In September, the ladies participated in the thrilled with all the presentations that they
Silent Auction! They were the hostesses attended. They had side attractions and cold
and did a great job. They especially enjoyed water, ice cream and snacks were served free
the dancing and Julie and Liz were extremely of charge. Also, we attended Toby’s Dinner
happy when they each won a door prize. Liz Theater to see “The Wizard of Oz”. The
celebrated another birthday in September. show was preceded by a lavish buffet and we
Her friends and family celebrated with her at really had fun. In fact, the guys were very
her favorite. You guessed it, Chevy’s! Lois reluctant to leave the premises.
had a chance to go visit with her cousin Joan
in Solomon’s Island. They are very close.
This past summer, two of the guys also visited their parents and other family members,
The ladies continue to be a part of MNCPPC especially David who does so frequently.
and now bowling has finally started so they They shopped and ate at the malls within
are very happy about that. We want to thank their community on Wednesdays and went
Nancy for our New Van! We love it! Also a bowling on Fridays. This is made possible
shout out to Kathy for the running boards for with the assistance and support from our
our van so the ladies can get in and out with counselors, as well as family members.
no problems. Now that we have a new roof
the ladies and I will be having a gathering at The guys and staff owe a debt of gratitude to
our home soon. Take care and enjoy the our new and able Program Administrator for
wonderful Fall colors.
his selfless dedication to our cause and on
the same token we’d like to extend a big
thank-you to our existing maintenance team
Julie, Mary,
for their efforts in keeping up with most of
and Hawa
our repair requests. Andy, Dale, David and
staff wish everyone a safe and meaningful
holiday season in advance.
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Please remember to think of our troops and their
family along with the needy during the up coming
Holidays!
Marilyn, Mona,
and Mary
Marilyn and
Mary
Mona
BRANCH VIEW
BUCKLODGE
Wade, Greg, and Morris are in good spirits.
They're still happy to be in their new home and
are getting very accustomed to their new surroundings. Please let all of our hearts go out to
Greg for being sick in the hospital and hope for
his quick recovery. Morris continues to enjoy
going to the movies, club, watching games at
Hooters, concerts, casinos, spending time with
his friends, and working on his computer. Wade
is still happy go lucky, and still enjoys going to
the movies, dancing at the club, walking in the
mall, swimming, eating out, and walking at the
park and riding anywhere in the van.
Greetings to all friends and family members! It
has been a long time since we have heard from
each other.
Morris Turner enjoying a beautiful day and
music at the “August Blues Festival” in Cockeysville, Maryland
All of the guys are doing great. They are very
involved in their activities with Park and Planning
groups. Last week we’ve just finished the fitness
ball. We are now into bowling and hockey.
Eugene is doing well with The Connection Chorus
Group. For the past months, the guys have been
busy visiting many places. They went to a Bay
sox Game, Washington Mystics Game, and Washington Nationals Game. Eugene went on a camping trip with the CHI Group to Philadelphia. Bernie is busy getting ready to go on a trip to South
Carolina with Park and Planning for four days. On
Labor Day we went on a van ride to Washington,
DC. The guys really enjoy sightseeing around the
Nation’s Capital.
COLUMBIA
We hope everyone enjoyed a safe and happy summer! We are all looking forward to the Fall and
upcoming holidays. The guys enjoyed a week
vacation at the Southern Shores in North Carolina’s Outer banks with their friends from the Durant House in September. We visited a lot of places such as the North Carolina Aquarium and
Southern Shores beaches. We also had cookouts
in the backyard throughout our stay. We really
had a good time!
The guys have been having fun now that they have
started back up with weekly bowling and other
community activities including the monthly dance
at CHI. The guys attended the CALMRA Dinner
and Silent Auction in September at the Sheraton in
Beltsville, where Keith won a dancing award.
Keith also celebrated his birthday in July at Teppenyaki Buffet in Laurel. His housemates and
friends from Allview; Bucklodge and Beechvue
came to celebrate with him along with Peter, his
Program Administrator, and Sham, his CLS and
other house staff. Everyone really enjoyed themselves that day and most came away with birthday
cake to take home for later. Donald celebrated his
birthday in September with his mother and other
family members joining the celebration. Finally,
we are happy to report that Ralph has been very
stable lately and has been able to join his housemates to enjoy many activities.
We wish everyone a happy and healthy Fall!
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What a Summer it has been for these guys to care
and share their time and experiences together, as a
group!
September, the beginning of Fall arrived, but the
guys never skipped a beat! They are still moving
with some foot stomping on P.G. Community College grounds, to blues music, tasty foods, and
many other fun activities at the Blue Bird Blues
Festival.
DRESDEN
Greetings everyone! The ladies of Dresden had a
pleasant summer. Monique enjoys being outside
on our new deck, and taking short walks in the
neighborhood with staff. She tried a few new
hairstyles (braids/plaits), by Dresden’s own personal stylist Vanessa. Monique visits with her
Mom often.
Nancy likes staying active in the community. She
enjoyed a Dinner Theater performance of Hairspray with several CALMRA friends. She liked
the company (Allview ladies) and food (Italian) at
the CALMRA SILENT AUCTION. Nancy enjoys
checking the mail daily, and has made friends with
our neighbors – she loves showing off her photo
album. Nancy also is happy to help with household
chores, and loves shopping – she has a strong
sense of fashion, and loves to dress up – a real
Glamour Girl, so having her nails and her hair
done are very important to her!
DURANT
Greeting To All!!
Our Summer has come to a halt, but not without
the guys here at Durant filling that time with many
great activities. In June, Michael, David and Chris
had a hand clapping and dancing get down time at
CHI Dances’ monthly get together.
In July the guys had a day with Hairspray, a play
that couldn’t be missed. Of course you know they
could not miss it and didn’t miss it. It was a dinner
theatre performance with wonderful music, dinner
buffet and dancing. They also attended a Montpelier Concert at the park located in Laurel, MD,
featuring the Rise Band and many other concert
series at the mansion. Wow! It was so much fun!
Hey! You can’t beat what came along with the
month of August. This time the guys had an opportunity to float about Prince George County,
taking in variety of activities. They started walking in a park, went bowling, eating various foods,
saw a block buster hit at a local theatre. They all
Margery has had some health challenges lately – were so thrilled enjoying every minute.
she is growing stronger and acting more like her
usual self after her recent hospital visit, but please This summer was topped-off with a week long
keeps her in your prayers. She enjoys sitting out on vacation on the Outer Banks of the Southern
the deck on these lovely warm fall days, and wel- Shores in North Carolina. In our travel, we saw
comes visitors – her sister and nephew came to some spectacular views and the weather was pleasvisit last Sunday.
ant throughout the trip. We relaxed on the beach
focusing on where the sky and water met, “what a
We are looking forward to Fall parties – Hallow- scene”. Granted, it was a great stay at a large prieen and Monique’s Birthday this month especially! vate beach house with a cool pool. All of the guys,
including the Columbia House guys who joined us
on the trip, went swimming in the pool, laughing
and splashing around having a wonderful time.
Also, while at the pool, we did our chilling and
grilling, “Oh Yeah!” We went to the aquarium in
Roanoke Island and took some pictures. We visited the museum where the famous Wright Brothers
flew the first airplane in Kitty Hawk. We browsed
through other areas, such as Nags Head, Manteo,
and Kill Devil Hills. With all of the activities, we
did get a chance to enjoy a massage and hot tub. It
was sensational feeling. David was smiling the
whole time, as bubbles came out of the jets.
Between the fleeting weeks of summer the guys
continuously went bowling, attending Sunday
morning services at Good Hope Church, as well as
attending more functions than can be accounted.
Christopher attended the Silent Auction fundraising Event and kicked it with his suave dance
moves. He also will going to South Carolina in
October with MNPPC in a blast off for some more
fun. Chris lets no grass grow under his feet!
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We at Durant wish everyone a continued safe and
healthy year, as we move forward into 2013. May
the New Year be a delightful and prosperous year
for all.
GAVIN
Fall is here!! The air is crisp and fresh, meaning
that Summer is gone but not forgotten. There have
been a few changes here at Gavin! The ladies welcomed their new CLS, Mahawa Jamiru, former full
time Residential Counselor at Gavin. Mahawa is
no stranger to the Gavin ladies, and we would like
to welcome her as the new CLS of Gavin. So far,
we kicked off the new season by going to the movies to see “Sparkle”. The ladies enjoyed the movie
especially Maureen-singing along with the late
great music diva, Whitney Houston. You can tell
everyone had a good time. We went to catch some
grub at Three Brothers. The pizzas there are made
with love, and the slices were so huge there was
no way we could finish it, but funny enough we
did!
GREENCASTLE
Summer is over and we all had a wonderful time
with lots of fun and tasty home prepared food.
The ladies spent their August vacation at Ocean
City, MD where they all had a wonderful time.
We visited the amusement parks and walked the
boardwalk. In September, the ladies watched the
Annual Burtonsville Parade and had lots of fun.
Kristin celebrated her birthday in September with
lots of gifts from family members. On Labor
Day, we had a backyard barbeque where we invited friends and co-workers. Jennifer’s birthday
was celebrated on October 4th. The weekend
before her birthday was celebrated at her parent’s
home with her loved ones.
Welcome to the Fall season and its that time of
Still enjoying the beginning of this beautiful season the year for flu shots. The ladies have all been
scheduled for their upcoming appointments. All
, we jumped in the van and headed to none other
than the ever so gorgeous peaceful harbor in Balti- the ladies and staff are in good health with good
more. It was such a breath taking sight. Looking working relationships.
into the blue water waving at us as we are taking
in the sights. Maureen was really happy. Enjoying what we all were grateful to be a part of, being
able to view the water and smell the salt in the
water as the breeze gently brushed our faces.
The ladies enjoy going to parks. On one occasion
we went to Lane Manor Park, took a stroll, enjoying the crisp fresh air. Shawn was overjoyed that
day. It was calm and peaceful. We feel she sense
the serenity of the park. How can shopping not be
mentions? The ladies went shopping at Prince
George’s Plaza. They go nice clothing, shoes,
blouses and perfumes. The were smelling good
feeling great!
In the house, you know no place is sweeter than
the coziness of the inside of your home, there the
ladies can let loose. Listening to classic rock,
R&B, reggae, and classical music. They have a
collection of variety music to listen to. They love
singing along with the artists. It’s always nice
listening to the ladies signing along with the artists. The look so happy! We recommend to take
time out to visit the harbor. The peace you will
feel out there in the world. Oh yea, there was a
live band there in the world. Oh yea, there was a
Live band there, they were awesome.
Pictures from the Greencastle's’ Ocean City
Vacation
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LACKAWANNA
Wow, I can hardly believe that Summer has actually gone, and Fall is here, no questions about
that. Just look at all the beautiful trees that have
changed colors right in front of your eyes, along
with the many leaves falling everywhere. Like
many of our homes here at CALMRA, we have
struggled with a number of challenges, yet we
have no complaints, due to the many Blessings
that are bestowed upon us here, and our loved
ones, each and every day.
During this news period, the “J” Team started out
by attending Sunday Church Services. As is the
norm, most Saturdays the team decides on a
favorite place to go for lunch, then off to the Safeway, for their weekly choices of whatever food
items they might want, or think they want. For
this weekly event, we thank our Patty’s Uncle
Bill, who is always looking for ways to spoil each
and every one of them. I don’t think he knows the
meaning of the word “No”. He has yet to refuse
them anything. He is another Blessing in our lives,
and we thank God for him and his loving patience.
If it takes them two or three hours in the store, it’s
always okay with him. He never rushes and he
never complains. As is often said, “the more
things change, the more they stay the same”.
This was written for him. When one or two of the
ladies are unable to go do their own shopping, he
remembers what they liked and will purchase
those items for them. Two of our ladies used to
argue over who will push the shopping cart, this
went on every week, how did he solve this issue?
He started giving each their own, and whatever
they put in it, that’s what they came home with.
Uncle Bill is one of those people that believes
whatever it takes to make them happy, they should
have it. Regardless of what it is or what others
may think. His thinking is so in line with the rest
of us here and his personality is one that anyone
would enjoy being around. I guess what moves us
most of all is the love and affection he shows his
loved ones, it is beyond description. Even though
she can no longer recognize him and is unable to
talk to him, it has only served to bring them closer. He dines with her, assists with her feeding,
watches her favorite TV shows with her, and
tucks her in bed before he leaves. In other words,
he is one of those unique individuals that deserves
to be recognized. The “J” team attended a number
of outings this news period, which included a
beautiful evening spent at Allen Pond, cookouts a
friend’s homes, a wonderful jazz concert in the
park
tic and super surprising way. While still enjoying the goodies, a beautiful card arrived from
park and a DC block party with lots of music and our Patsy’s sister, Jeanne, and brother-in-law,
food. There we met many wonderful people who Bill, also expressing their appreciation to staff.
Jeanne thank you so much for your beautiful and
invited us to other events that they believed we
warm words.
would enjoy as well. It’s amazing how warm and
wonderful strangers can sometimes be. With all In closing, Patty, Patsy, Delores and Staff would
the negative stuff that covers the newspapers like to wish our wonderful Board members, and
these days, along with television and radio, it’s Office Staff a wonderfully Blessed Fall.
doubly refreshing when strangers take the time to
introduce themselves, shake everyone’s hands
and start conversations, the whole time smiling
and offering their help. This is just one more
example of how love for one’s fellow man (or
PRINCESS GARDEN
woman) has little or nothing to do with a bloodline.
The cool weather is a delight after suffering from
the heat. The girls are always happy to see one
Our Delores Newman once again attended Speseason end and another begin. Perhaps it is not
cial Challenge week at the Bishop Claggett
just the change in weather but the change in rouCenter in Buckeystown, where she enjoyed
tine. They are back to the routine of Saturday
canoeing, swimming, Hay rides, dances, singing
bowling and very happy to see their friends,
around the camp fire, and exploring the country
many of whom are not in the other Parks and
side. It’s unfortunate our Patty and Patsy were
Planning Clubs. Bowling began on Sept. 22 and
unable to attend this year. While we are at it,
will be every Saturday until May except during
Delores continues to be a member of the Rethe Saturdays of the holidays.
MERNA
source Connection Chorus. They practice twice a
month and perform off and on throughout the The guys at Merna house have had an enjoyable Julie and Melynda attended the Renaissance Fesyear. We also celebrated the CLS’s Birthday in summer, despite their extensive health challeng- tival on September 15th. Melynda says she wants
August with a Pizza party. With the “J” team, es. During July, they went to local shopping to dress up in a period costume next year. They
th
any old excuse will do to celebrate. For Labor malls to “beat the heat” and attended a 4 of July get plenty of exercise with all of the walking at
Day week end, the team was invited to another celebration in Landover. They went to parks in the Festival. They also visited the Maritime Mujamming outdoor Barbeque with staff’s family Bowie and Largo and visited the Farmer’s Mar- seum in the Solomon Islands with The Friendly
members. A very special “Thank You” to Cas- ket in Crofton. In September, Michael attended Bunch, another Parks and Planning Club.
sandra and Family, not just for all the good food the Blues Festival at Prince George’s Community
and drinks everyone enjoyed, but especially for College. He enjoyed the festival sights and great Melynda had several vacations--both of them
the special assistance they provided in getting our blues music. Dwayne enjoys frequent visits from visiting relatives in New York. Next week she is
two wheelchairs up the steps and into their lovely his sister and niece on weekends. He always going on a 4-day mini-trip to Charleston with
home.
Also, we would like to give thanks to looks forward to seeing them.
Parks and Planning. Friends from a cross section
Bill Dent for sharing his fresh garden veggies
of clubs will also be going.
with us. This is something the crew can never eat Overall, the guys are doing well at this moment
and we believe they will continue to do well. The Julie had a good time in Ocean City with her
enough of.
staff at Merna is doing a great job by attending to Mother. When asked what she liked best about
The “J” Team would also like to send a special the needs of our residents and people around us Ocean City, she replied "the Boardwalk". She
thank you to Kathy Labukas ,and Shelia Saville appreciate our services to both the residents and knows the place for action!
for working their magic to make it possible for their families. We received verbal commendation
the “J” Team to attend CALMRA”s annual Silent from the doctors and nurses at Doctor’s Commu- Colleen is recovering very well after having a
Auction and Dinner event. Otherwise, there nity Hospital for taking good care of our resi- shoulder replacement. We were very happy
would have been many hurt feelings left behind. dents. Further commendations come from their when the surgeon recently said, "So many things
At the same time we want to thank all the people primary care physicians and from the CALMRA, could have gone wrong with this surgery, but
who offered to purchased us tickets to this event. Inc. Quality Assurance Team that visited the nothing has gone wrong." She is now out of the
We really are grateful. It seems as if all around house in September. They gave us an excellent wheelchair, but walks with an ambulatory belt.
people continue to demonstrate to the staff just score for doing a great job for our residents. We
how much we are appreciated. Let us not forget will continue to be committed and dedicated to The girls had their flu shots during a recent visit
our very own Executive Director, Nancy Tol- the service for our residents at all times. Thank to their Primary Care Physician, so they are ready
bert, and our Director of Operation, Danna you all.
for the winter. We just have to bring out their
Zacharek , who actually took the time to drive
winter clothes from storage. They are already
out to our homes to show staff appreciation by Michael, Bryan, Dwayne and Staff.
psyched up for soup and cornbread. After
delivering a huge box of International cookies
Thanksgiving they will start feeding the birds
that staff and residents alike enjoyed to no end.
again. As said earlier, it is all a change in rouExcellent choice! This was the first staff had
tine!
heard of “HAPPY DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONALS WEEK”, when they showed up
at our door. I can’t express how great that made
the staff feel to be recognized in such a fantasLACAWANNA (Cont.)
13
SCOTT
SHANANDALE
SUSQUEHANNA
The summer season began with astonishing
We hope everyone is well and enjoying the last
The residents and staff enjoyed a vacation
weather. It was invariably cold and hot at
of the good weather.
for three days in Lancaster County in Penn- times, but we were ready to go always.
sylvania.
Day one was spent visiting historic sites
like the National Christmas Museum. The
ladies had a tremendous time walking
through the incredible exhibits that spanned
over 200 years of Christmas history. Karen
was so joyful at the huge, circular train sets
as they roared through the beautiful trees
and other decorations. She clapped, pointed
and vocalized her happiness the best way
she could! Gloria tried to touch numerous
items and even asked staff a few questions
about what she saw. Gwen sang Christmas
songs all day. They all purchased Christmas
jewelry.
We visited various places throughout the Washington, DC metropolitan Area. There are so
many wonderful places locally in the area to
enjoy. We went to the Inner Harbor many times
to events, Haines Point to picnic, attended a
couple of church picnics, movies, and went to
Potomac Mills to shop and have lunch.
We got to barbeque a lot which the ladies thoroughly loved, especially Dotti. That is one of
her favorite things to do in the summer. My
lovely ladies still enjoy getting out doing different things. I just can’t keep Dotti or Dorri away
Throughout the summer months the guys have
from the flea market and all of the good foods
been on the go and actively involved with famithere to sample.
ly and outside activities. David went home to
celebrate his father’s birthday with his sister in
Frances celebrated her 87th birthday this year.
Virginia and was elated about it. He came
We invited her brother and his daughter over for
home very happy. Antonio and James spent
lunch and dessert. Frances is also doing a lot
their time engaged with environmental awarebetter and is back to her Day Program with her
ness by doing things of their choice and staying
house mates. What a joy… We are in the provery busy.
cess of planning for the holidays. Hopefully we
will be on vacation within the next month or so.
With the Fall season right around the corner we
will be busy, as usual. We are looking forward
Until the next time, everyone take care and God
to the Fall of the year and leaves turning beautibless!
ful colors this time of the year.
Day two was spent at Tanger Mall where
the ladies enjoyed people watching and
shopping. We went to the Sight and Sound
Theatre where we enjoyed the MusicalJonah. The ladies were quiet and seemed to
enjoy all the singing, dancing and theatre as On the behalf of James, Antonio, David and
the biblical character's story was brought to staff, we would like to thank everybody for their
life. We spent day three at a park where we gracious support and God’s blessings to all!
enjoyed watching a hot-air balloon competition. Some of us saw those balloons up
close for the very first time.
Thanks to everyone who supported the ladies vacation this year. We especially want
to thank Nancy Tolbert, Brenda Zupancic,
Yinka Davies and Kawal Sethi for all your
support. It was a blessing to be able to get
out of town for a while and have fun.
14
This quarter the ladies enjoyed visiting some of
the parks and laying back, watching the children
play and the sounds of the birds.
Hello all! With the help of CALMRA staff,
CSLA clients have been keeping very active and
are doing well! One of the highlights for Debbie,
Alan and Linda, Alvin and Bobbie was going to
see “Hairspray”, a dinner theater production at
Montgomery College. It was fantastic and featured Brenda’s daughter, Briana, in the play and as
the waitress. The food was excellent – especially
the frozen hot chocolate at intermission!
birthday this month. He loves walking around in
the City that Never Sleeps!
Ken had a busy summer also – enjoyed several
movies, College Park Aviation museum, bowling,
dining out, and a CHI dance. He recently “retired”
from his workshop, and is enjoying the Senior
Center at CHI daily – especially arts and crafts
projects and concerts. Ken recently had a brace
custom-made for his knee which stabilizes his
Debbie enjoys accompanying one of the Meals on whole leg. He wears it in addition to the one on
Wheels clients (Mary) to numerous doctors’ ap- his ankle.
pointments. Mary is an elderly woman who
doesn’t drive, and, although she uses a cane, Deb Bobbie had a pool party sponsored by her Homehelps her walk safely. Debbie loved a couple of owners Association. This was catered by Dave’s
movies - including Madea’s Witness Protection Barbecue, with Rita’s Italian Ice, and the food was
and Spiderman in 3-D (her first 3-D movie)! The- excellent. There was a DJ and face painting.
se would have been approved of by her parents as Bobbie, who had made many friends with the
they were rated PG. Both of her parents passed lifeguards and some of the homeowners, at the
away within the past ten years, and Debbie visits pool this summer, was sad to see it close for the
the cemetery to remember and honor them on the season. Her sister bought her a new bike at the
anniversary of special occasions. Her father was a flea market and Bobbie was very proud of herself
Naval Officer and is buried at the Maryland Veter- for riding all the way around Laurel Lake! Paula
ans Cemetery in Crownsville. Debbie bike rides and Bobbie went to the Hispanic festival and ate
and loves to swim at a new pool in Glen Arden. In regional food such as roasted chicken, rice and
addition, Debbie celebrated her birthday at Col- beans and yucca fries.
lege Park lanes with CALMRA folks and her
brother-in-law, sister and nephew.
Bobbie, in her own words, had this to say: “This
summer, Paula and I went to the pool a lot and had
Alan and Linda have been continuing with their a lot of fun at the pool party. I met a lot of new
art classes on Wednesdays. They recently made people this year such as the lifeguards who were
toilet paper holders, - made from three cans with from Jamaica. They were very nice to talk to. At
an end cut off and covered with fabric. Alan was the Hispanic festival, we got tattoos all over our
so glad his fabric featured all the sports teams like bodies. There were all kinds of rides, games to
the Redskins, Nats, Giants, etc… On another occa- play and food to eat. CALMRA’s Silent Auction
sion, they made wooden end tables, wood-burned was very nice and well-attended even though it
and painted. Alan and Linda like to bowl using was a bad, rainy night. We had a great day. Brenduckpins. They also enjoyed the Montgomery da bid on and received a wreath I made. I have
County Fair; especially the pig races (piglets rac- been doing Meals on Wheels every other Monday
ing in circles with corny but cute names such as and at the indoor pool I do 10 laps. I’m improving
Porkohantas and Hamtoro). They played games every week. I have been going to art class where
such as the bean bag toss, ring toss and basketball. I’ve been making gift boxes and jewelry boxes. I
They saw Australian animals such as a wallaby, really like to walk with my friends and go bowling
kangaroo and Koala which Linda really liked. whenever I can. I have a great time when we go.”
Alan and Linda also visited the circus, where they
saw tigers and three trick motorcycle riders who Terry enjoyed her annual beach vacation in Ocean
rode around just barely missing crashing into each City, and is looking forward to celebrating her
other in a cage! They saw Spiderman 3-D with birthday this month. Revantha continues to enjoy
Debbie, as well as Hotel Transylvania.
his day program at FCI – rolling and packing the
Gazette each week, and community activities such
Another CSLA client, Alvin, is now working four as movies, bowling, daily walks and the exercise
days a week and is happy to have the extra money. program.
The highlight for him was going to the Verizon
Center to see Jennifer Lopez, most memorable that Thanks to all the CALMRA staff including Brennight for her dancing, and Enrique Iglesias, for his da, Paula, Diane, Anita, Amy…Happy Fall!
singing. They put on quite a show with Enrique
getting very involved with the audience, bringing
girls from the audience up on the stage. Alvin also
saw “Sparkle” featuring Whitney Houston, a bit
like “Dream girls”, and he got sad as he remembered Whitney’s recent death. Alvin is looking
forward to a mini-vacation to New York for his
15
Bobbie Sease, Linda & Alan Snowden
Bobbie Sease
Debbie Burns
Linda Snowden
Liquids often need thickening to keep the
person from aspirating liquids into the
lungs, which can cause pneumonia. Tilting the person’s head forward can help,
as well.
Temperature is important for stimulating
appetite, as well as not injuring the person if food is too hot. Some people may
no longer like hot foods, and others may
no longer like cold foods
When feeding someone who needs help
transferring the food to his or her mouth,
engage with the person directly and in a
kind and patient manner.
Move slowly and allow him or her to
swallow each bite or sip.
Give liquids in between bites if that
helps. Prompt gently when needed.
Portion size may need to be adjusted.
Many elders need smaller, more frequent
meals.
Stay calm and don’t let your worry about
the person not eating make matters
worse. If they don’t want to eat at a
planned meal, you can try again later.
Often, whether from physical problems or
lack of appetite, eating loses its appeal to frail
elders,
younger people with dementia,
chronic illness or a chronic condition. Regardless of the reason the person they are
caring for has for not eating well, caregivers
can be stressed by the situation. We know the
value of nutrition. We know the feeling of
hunger. We want to help them stay nourished.
.
Professional caregivers, such as those in nursing homes, also struggle with the issue. However, nourishment needs to be provided in the
right way, which often depends on why the
person has trouble eating..
Physical issues
As people age and become frail, many people
can have problems properly chewing food
and/or swallowing. The same thing can happen in mid-to later stages of Alzheimer’s and
Parkinson’s disease. Even if the person wants
to eat and feels hungry, the physical effort
may seem too much trouble. It’s up to the
caregiver to help by providing meals that are
as appealing as possible, which is, of course a
challenge in itself. Some advice:
According to an article in Nursing Times,
food should have fragrance and flavor,
and as much texture and density as the
person can physically handle. Even if the
food must be pureed, it should have texture to stimulate appetite.
16
Lack of appetite
End stage dementia and other end stage diseases leads to problems that are physical and
often the ability to chew or swallow is lost.
However, lack of appetite can also stem from
lack of interest, depression, the brain not
functioning to trigger feelings of hunger, a
failing digestive system. It’s difficult for a
reasonably healthy family member who gets
hungry when the body needs food to understand that a loved one who is beginning the
death process may not want food because he
or she can’t digest it..
Think about what would “go down easy”
if you were recovering from stomach flu.
Nice, cool pieces of apple? Juicy strawberries? Pitted cherries? These foods
aren’t going to put weight on a person,
but discovering the kinds of food the
person will eat, and maybe even enjoy, is
important. Maybe Jello or yogurt will do
the trick. Experiment without always
worrying about balanced nutrition or a
food battle, and see what happens.
Good teeth or properly fitting dentures
are ideal. The reality is that many elders
either have decaying teeth, or they have
ill-fitting dentures. Do what you can to
remedy problem teeth.
Keep portions small. A loaded plate of
food may seem overwhelming. A small
dish of fruit, followed by a piece of toast
and later by a nutritional drink could
generally be managed.
The advice of a dietitian is recommended
in any case where a person is not getting
adequate nutrition. He or she may have
sound ideas that you can experiment
with..
Remember that an elderly person or a person
with dementia will not likely have the appetite you have. Respecting the person you are
trying to nourish is important. Don’t let your
worry make matters worse. Be helpful, encouraging and offer choices. Ask for professional advice. If a person is nearing the end of
life, hunger many not be present for good
reason. Many people who care for a person
with dementia or a progressive illness feel
that they are not providing good care unless
they can get a person to eat. A medical person can help you understand this process. It’s
tough knowing that our loved one no longer
wants or even needs food, but understanding
the reasons can help with acceptance.
Giant Gift Card order form
Giant food fundraiser!
CALMRA will be selling Giant Food Gift cards at face value, ($25.00, $50.00, $100.00). You can use these just like cash at any Giant.
PLEASE Consider purchasing these cards for your grocery shopping needs, gift needs, etc.
CALMRA will earn 5% of each card sold. Thanks for helping!!
Date: ______/______/______
Name: ____________________________________________________
Address: ______________________________________________________________________________________
street
City,
State
zip code
Phone: __(______)________________________________________
I would like a total of $ ___________ in giant food cards in the following denomination (s):
_______ x $25.00 card (s)=
$__________________
_______ x $50.00 card (s)=
$__________________
_______ x $100.00 card (s)=
$__________________
Payment options:
______ Cash
______Check
______Credit Card
type: ____Visa
____ MasterCard
____ Am Ex ____Other
Card number: _____________________________________________
Expiration date: _____________________ CVC: _________________
Signature: _______________________________________________________
******************************************Staff use only********************************************************
Date Processed: ______/______/______
Is this a Petty Cash order?
17
YES (
Staff fulfilling order: ________________________________
)
NO (
)
18
2012
CALMRA, Inc.
5020 Sunnyside Avenue
Beltsville, MD 20705