New officers take the helm - Hebrew Home of Greater Washington
New officers take the helm - Hebrew Home of Greater Washington
New officers take the helm - Hebrew Home of Greater Washington
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Visit <strong>the</strong><br />
Shalom Mall<br />
Wedding bells<br />
at Ring House<br />
Area<br />
dentists<br />
contribute<br />
Page 3<br />
Page 5<br />
Page 6<br />
June 2007/No.5<br />
<strong>New</strong> <strong><strong>of</strong>ficers</strong> <strong>take</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>helm</strong><br />
At its Annual Meeting in May, <strong>the</strong> Charles E.<br />
Smith Life Communities celebrated its first year<br />
under <strong>the</strong> new name representing its system <strong>of</strong> care.<br />
At <strong>the</strong> same time, <strong>the</strong> <strong>Hebrew</strong> <strong>Home</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Greater</strong> <strong>Washington</strong>,<br />
which anchors <strong>the</strong> system, marked 97 years <strong>of</strong> service to seniors<br />
in our community.<br />
<strong>New</strong>ly installed Chair Hanita Schreiber credited “growing up<br />
in a home where being Jewish was <strong>the</strong> essence <strong>of</strong> my family” as<br />
<strong>the</strong> beginning <strong>of</strong> her journey to this moment. She spoke <strong>of</strong> two<br />
major initiatives: marking “<strong>the</strong> amazing milestone in 2010 – our<br />
centennial year” in a meaningful way, and creating a vision and<br />
strategic plan for <strong>the</strong> next five to seven years.<br />
President/CEO Warren Slavin said, “We have <strong>the</strong> vibrancy<br />
and enthusiasm <strong>of</strong> a young organization built on a solid foundation<br />
<strong>of</strong> competency and experience,” qualities he will call upon to<br />
meet <strong>the</strong> “tsunami-like” demographic forces that will impact<br />
future senior care.<br />
(Photos left to right) 1. <strong>New</strong>ly installed Chair Hanita Schreiber with<br />
Immediate Past Chair Arthur Dykes. 2. Warren Slavin addresses <strong>the</strong> 97th<br />
annual meeting. 3. Hymen Goldman Award Recipient Marc Solomon with<br />
Joseph H<strong>of</strong>fman, who presented <strong>the</strong> honor. 4. Morris Tepper, who resides at<br />
Landow House, “plays a mean game <strong>of</strong> bridge,” Hanita noted in her remarks.<br />
“He will let me know if we are falling down on <strong>the</strong> job.”<br />
Mrs. Schreiber, a health care consultant<br />
who has played a leadership role with <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>Hebrew</strong> <strong>Home</strong> since 1998, was installed for a<br />
two-year term in a meeting capably chaired by<br />
Rob Selzer. David A. Samuels is chair-elect.<br />
Arthur J. Dykes is immediate past chair.<br />
At <strong>the</strong> annual meeting, Marc F. Solomon received <strong>the</strong><br />
prestigious Hymen Goldman Humanitarian Award and was<br />
commended for his “steady, personal and heartfelt commitment”<br />
over almost 20 years. He is valued for his guidance and active<br />
participation as <strong>the</strong> organization tackled key issues in finance,<br />
employment, real estate and planning.<br />
<strong>New</strong>ly installed as <strong><strong>of</strong>ficers</strong> with Mrs. Schreiber are Vice Chair<br />
for Finance/Treasurer Harry A. Harrison, a partner in Aronson<br />
—Continued on page 3<br />
HEBREW HOME OF GREATER WASHINGTON • SMITH-KOGOD & WASSERMAN RESIDENCES • LANDOW HOUSE<br />
RING HOUSE • REVITZ HOUSE • HIRSH HEALTH CENTER • RESEARCH INSTITUTE ON AGING
Generation to Generation<br />
When Joining a Support Group Makes Sense<br />
Carole King’s classic 1971 song “You’ve Got a Friend”<br />
highlights one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> best strategies for coping with medical crises or<br />
hard times. Turn to an understanding, caring friend to “brighten up even your<br />
darkest night.” One place to find this type <strong>of</strong> support is in a support group.<br />
Broadly defined, a support group is a ga<strong>the</strong>ring <strong>of</strong> individuals who meet regularly to<br />
discuss a commonly shared problem or concern. Whe<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong> issue is physical or mental<br />
illness, divorce, abuse, grief, rape, weight, caregiver burnout, or any <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
countless maladies and hurdles in today’s society, <strong>the</strong>re will likely be a support<br />
group—real or virtual—to provide much-needed moral support and guidance.<br />
“The diversity and ubiquitousness <strong>of</strong> such groups is astounding,” observes Pr<strong>of</strong>essor<br />
Morton Lieberman, an expert on <strong>the</strong> power <strong>of</strong> support groups to assist those struggling<br />
with adverse challenges.<br />
What’s in it for me?<br />
“Depending on your circumstances…it may be helpful to turn to o<strong>the</strong>rs outside your<br />
immediate circle for help,” writes a Mayo Clinic advisor. A support group can provide<br />
you with <strong>the</strong> comforting sense that many people face and even overcome <strong>the</strong> kind <strong>of</strong><br />
extraordinary pain, hopelessness, and confusion you are currently experiencing.<br />
In a group’s accepting atmosphere, you can:<br />
• Express fears openly and honestly<br />
• Receive meaningful information and feedback<br />
• Discover better approaches and coping strategies<br />
• Develop confidence and strength to handle<br />
any situation<br />
• Become part <strong>of</strong> a social network that suits<br />
your immediate needs. ■<br />
“Unlike “pr<strong>of</strong>essional” help, which is steeped in <strong>the</strong>ory<br />
and has pr<strong>of</strong>essional customs, support groups evolve from<br />
<strong>the</strong> members’ collective experiences and shared problems.<br />
. . . personal experience is <strong>the</strong> best teacher. ”<br />
— Morton Lieberman, Ph.D.,<br />
University <strong>of</strong> California, San Francisco<br />
Laurie C. Goldman, LCSW-C<br />
Initiatives<br />
The <strong>Hebrew</strong> <strong>Home</strong> Caregiver Support Group,<br />
led by Laurie C. Goldman, LCSW-C, welcomes<br />
individuals caring for seniors living at <strong>the</strong> <strong>Home</strong><br />
as well as throughout <strong>the</strong> D.C. metropolitan area.<br />
“What’s said in <strong>the</strong> group is confidential,”<br />
states Goldman. “It’s a safe place for people to air<br />
conflicting emotions that arise when caring for a<br />
loved one who has pr<strong>of</strong>ound and constant needs.”<br />
Topics that members might never bring up within<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir own families are acknowledged in <strong>the</strong> group<br />
with an understanding nod.<br />
Goldman, who is clinical supervisor in <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>Home</strong>’s Social Work Department, urges group<br />
members to be realistic about illnesses that will<br />
inevitably worsen and become sensitive to how<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir attitude affects <strong>the</strong> care-giving relationship.<br />
Goldman holds an MSW from <strong>the</strong><br />
Wurzweiler School <strong>of</strong> Social Work, Yeshiva<br />
University.<br />
Finding <strong>the</strong> right group<br />
This requires some research and asking.<br />
Turn to:<br />
• Medical pr<strong>of</strong>essionals or area hospitals<br />
• Religious leaders<br />
• Social workers or service organizations<br />
• Friends with relevant experiences<br />
• The Internet (search by topic, plus <strong>the</strong> words<br />
“support group,” and your state or location)<br />
• National or local organizations dealing with<br />
your issues<br />
• The Commission for Women in Maryland,<br />
which holds small workshops on diverse<br />
issues. Visit:<br />
www.montgomerycountymd.gov/cfw<br />
• Libraries<br />
• Local newspaper calendar listings<br />
• The American Self-Help Group Clearinghouse,<br />
online.<br />
Page 2 | June 2007 www.smithlifecommunities.org LifeTimes
<strong>New</strong> <strong><strong>of</strong>ficers</strong><br />
<strong>take</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>helm</strong><br />
continued from page 1<br />
and Co., a Rockville accounting<br />
firm, and Judith Rae Peres, a<br />
social worker with Kaiser<br />
Permanente, as Vice Chair<br />
for Quality Improvement.<br />
Andrew S.<br />
Friedlander and Irving<br />
P. Cohen continue in<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir roles as vice chairs<br />
for development and<br />
strategic planning,<br />
respectively.<br />
<strong>New</strong>ly elected to<br />
<strong>the</strong> Board <strong>of</strong> Governors<br />
are Jeffrey Distenfeld,<br />
principal with First<br />
<strong>Washington</strong> Realty in<br />
Be<strong>the</strong>sda; Robert<br />
Fleshner, president <strong>of</strong> Xtend Fitness and Health<br />
in Be<strong>the</strong>sda, and Alan Freeman, partner with<br />
Blank Rome, LLP in <strong>Washington</strong>. For a complete<br />
list <strong>of</strong> 2007-2009 <strong><strong>of</strong>ficers</strong> and board members, visit<br />
www.hebrew-home.org, and click on About Us. ■<br />
“Retail <strong>the</strong>rapy” benefits our residents —it’s as easy as 1, 2, 3!<br />
1Go to www.hebrew-home.org and<br />
click on “Giving Opportunities” or<br />
“Donate Now!”<br />
Members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Red Hat Society at Ring House<br />
greet guests arriving at <strong>the</strong> 97th annual meeting.<br />
Browse our brand new online Shalom Mall for unique ways to<br />
brighten <strong>the</strong> day for <strong>Hebrew</strong> <strong>Home</strong> residents.<br />
2On our Giving Opportunities<br />
page, scroll down to Shalom Mall.<br />
Healthcare pr<strong>of</strong>essionals sought as<br />
volunteer patient representatives<br />
The Volunteer Department at <strong>the</strong> <strong>Hebrew</strong> <strong>Home</strong> <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>Greater</strong> <strong>Washington</strong> is seeking healthcare pr<strong>of</strong>essionals to<br />
become patient service representatives in <strong>the</strong> Rakusin<br />
Rehabilitation Center. Individuals with backgrounds in<br />
medicine, nursing, physical <strong>the</strong>rapy and o<strong>the</strong>r health fields<br />
may participate in this new program – <strong>the</strong> first <strong>of</strong> its kind<br />
at <strong>the</strong> nursing home. A commitment <strong>of</strong> three hours a week<br />
is requested.<br />
“We are proud <strong>of</strong> our reputation for quality care. We<br />
want to expand on our success,” said Hedy Peyser, Director<br />
<strong>of</strong> Volunteers, “This new program aims to quickly resolve<br />
small problems that might impact a short-stay patient’s<br />
experience. Volunteers will move from room to room and<br />
meet individually with patients and family members,<br />
working closely with <strong>the</strong> unit teams and conveying<br />
important information and concerns to staff.”<br />
Peyser notes that patient service representatives are<br />
available in some hospitals, but considers this a groundbreaking<br />
endeavor in a nursing home.<br />
The position <strong>of</strong>fers flexibility for 21 volunteers who can<br />
serve from 9 a.m.–noon, from 1–4 p.m., or from 6–9 p.m.,<br />
weekdays or weekends. Contact <strong>the</strong> Volunteer Department<br />
at <strong>the</strong> <strong>Hebrew</strong> <strong>Home</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Greater</strong> <strong>Washington</strong> at<br />
301.770.8333. ■<br />
3The Charles E. Smith Life<br />
Communities Shalom Mall <strong>of</strong>fers five<br />
ways to transform tax deductible donations<br />
into creative gift giving: Music Therapy,<br />
Resident Counseling, Birthday Parties,<br />
Shabbat Meals, and a month <strong>of</strong> Movie Nights.<br />
Follow directions to complete your order.<br />
LifeTimes<br />
www.smithlifecommunities.org<br />
June 2007 | Page 3
<strong>Hebrew</strong> <strong>Home</strong><br />
Redesigning <strong>the</strong> dining<br />
experience<br />
Traditionally, mealtime in<br />
<strong>Hebrew</strong> <strong>Home</strong> residences, as in most<br />
nursing homes, has meant three<br />
nutritionally balanced meals a day<br />
served to residents on trays. The<br />
trays, each containing a complete<br />
three-course meal, are about to<br />
become history.<br />
Our seniors will soon be enjoying<br />
an entirely new level <strong>of</strong> dining experience.<br />
Yes, nutrition will remain <strong>the</strong><br />
cornerstone component, but emphasis<br />
will now shift to creating a warm,<br />
inviting “bistro” atmosphere in each<br />
dining room, with tempting aromas<br />
filling <strong>the</strong> air and a more sociable<br />
ambiance.<br />
Food will be plated and served in<br />
separate courses. While <strong>the</strong>y await<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir hot entrees, our seniors can start<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir meals with rolls and salads that<br />
This <strong>Hebrew</strong> <strong>Home</strong> is testing a “bistro”<br />
style meal service to replace <strong>the</strong> current tray<br />
service. Virginia Figueira prepares to serve<br />
<strong>the</strong> main course from a buffet stand in <strong>the</strong><br />
residents’ dining room that keeps food at <strong>the</strong><br />
proper temperature.<br />
will be available at <strong>the</strong>ir tables.<br />
In a pilot project currently<br />
underway on <strong>the</strong> second floor <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Smith-Kogod Residence, <strong>the</strong><br />
response has been resoundingly<br />
positive; residents are excited, <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
families are thrilled, and <strong>the</strong> staff is<br />
delighted to put <strong>the</strong> change into<br />
motion. The new bistro-style service<br />
is expected to be implemented in all<br />
units by <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> year. ■<br />
Hirsh Health Center<br />
Two members <strong>of</strong> our Hirsh Health<br />
Center medical team, Dr. Anna B. Korzan<br />
and Dr. Zeba S. Geloo, are currently<br />
accepting new patients, with less than a<br />
one-month wait for an initial visit.<br />
Dr. Korzan’s areas <strong>of</strong> interest include<br />
coronary artery disease and lipid disorders.<br />
Dr. Geloo specializes in wound<br />
management and joint injections. Both<br />
physicians are board-certified by <strong>the</strong><br />
American Board <strong>of</strong> Internal Medicine.<br />
The Hirsh Health Center has a<br />
brochure with tips for new patients.<br />
Please call 301.816.5004 for more information<br />
or to schedule an appointment. ■<br />
Landow House<br />
Dr. Zeba S. Geloo<br />
Dr. Anna B. Korzan<br />
<strong>New</strong>s from<br />
At Landow House,<br />
resident Harry H<strong>of</strong>berg reminisced<br />
about his Babe Ruth-autographed baseball;<br />
<strong>the</strong>se props set <strong>the</strong> scene for his talk.<br />
Harry H<strong>of</strong>berg had a story to tell<br />
about his prized baseball autographed<br />
by Babe Ruth, and his Landow House<br />
neighbors came to hear it.<br />
“On a cold day 84 years ago, I<br />
went down to <strong>the</strong> Times Herald newspaper<br />
building in <strong>Washington</strong>. The<br />
<strong>New</strong> York Yankees were in town, and<br />
Babe Ruth was tossing balls out <strong>of</strong> an<br />
<strong>of</strong>fice window <strong>the</strong>re. About 150 – 200<br />
youngsters with baseball mitts, wearing<br />
heavy coats, vied for <strong>the</strong> balls.<br />
“The organizers <strong>of</strong> this event saw<br />
that <strong>the</strong> smaller boys couldn’t compete,<br />
and I was <strong>the</strong> smallest. I heard a<br />
low voice next to me, asking, ‘Sonny,<br />
what is <strong>the</strong> number on your ticket?’<br />
Then I heard my number being<br />
announced -- I had won a ball!”<br />
Harry, with <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r winners,<br />
was ushered to <strong>the</strong> ro<strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> building,<br />
where Babe Ruth autographed <strong>the</strong> prize<br />
balls and posed for a photo. The smallest<br />
and youngest, Harry sat on Babe<br />
Ruth’s lap.<br />
Harry’s enthusiasm for baseball<br />
brings a lively sparkle to his eyes. As a<br />
copy boy at <strong>the</strong> Times Herald, he saw<br />
<strong>the</strong> Senators win <strong>the</strong> pennant in 1933,<br />
and he remembers paying 55 cents to<br />
sit in <strong>the</strong> bleachers at Griffith Stadium.<br />
A linotype operator by trade, Harry<br />
played ball with <strong>the</strong> Union Printers,<br />
and batted .398. His team won <strong>the</strong><br />
championship in 1936-1940, and a<br />
Landow House neighbor remembers<br />
seeing Harry play in <strong>the</strong> tournament.<br />
“It is <strong>the</strong> greatest game in <strong>the</strong> world.”<br />
Page 4 | June 2007 www.smithlifecommunities.org LifeTimes
Ring House<br />
Sometimes two heads are<br />
better than one; likewise, two<br />
organizations can <strong>of</strong>ten tackle a<br />
project better as a duo. Here’s a<br />
perfect example:<br />
The Jewish Community<br />
Center <strong>of</strong> <strong>Greater</strong> <strong>Washington</strong><br />
(JCC) wanted to arrange special<br />
summer activities for seniors but<br />
space was an issue. Ring House<br />
had <strong>the</strong> space, and thus began a<br />
winning partnership, <strong>the</strong> beneficiaries<br />
<strong>of</strong> which will be JCC members, as<br />
well as Ring, Landow, and Revitz<br />
residents, all <strong>of</strong> whom are invited to<br />
par<strong>take</strong> in a line-up <strong>of</strong> stimulating<br />
classes, lunches, and concerts featuring visiting performing artists.<br />
Beginning June 11, on Thursday mornings, participants can join a choral group<br />
led by Frieda Enoch, with festive music <strong>of</strong> Yiddish, <strong>Hebrew</strong> and English origin, or <strong>the</strong>y<br />
can attend a social action group to discuss selected current events and be treated to<br />
some exceptional speakers. The schedule includes Noah<br />
Sadan <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Refugee Training Center, Nathan Goodman <strong>of</strong><br />
The Forward, and Marilyn Praisner,<br />
president <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Montgomery<br />
County Council.<br />
Participants can sign up<br />
for lunch and <strong>the</strong>n stay on<br />
for a 1 p.m. concert. For <strong>the</strong><br />
full schedule, please contact<br />
Selma Sweetbaum, JCC<br />
Adult Division Director, at<br />
301.348.3860. ■<br />
Wedding bells: Meet Jim and<br />
Joyce Lyman, who met each<br />
o<strong>the</strong>r as Ring House residents.<br />
It was love at first sight…<br />
really, first dance. They<br />
were wed in March.<br />
Research Institute<br />
Can you hear me now?<br />
If you are over <strong>the</strong> age <strong>of</strong> 75, chances are<br />
about 50-50 that you have some hearing<br />
loss. Among nursing home residents, <strong>the</strong><br />
prevalence <strong>of</strong> hearing loss is even greater:<br />
between 70 and 90 percent have some<br />
degree <strong>of</strong> hearing impairment. However,<br />
Salute our Ring House WWII Vets! Every Friday morning<br />
<strong>the</strong>y join a ga<strong>the</strong>ring <strong>of</strong> about 40 <strong>Washington</strong> area<br />
veterans <strong>of</strong> all wars for reminiscing and socializing over<br />
breakfast. From right to left: Daniel Goodman (Marines);<br />
Martin Horner (Army); Abe Sterman (Army); and driver<br />
Harry Pollack (Navy).<br />
Mildred H<strong>of</strong>berg and her daughters<br />
Sandy Bobb and Susan Pittleman<br />
at H<strong>of</strong>berg Pavilion dedication<br />
ceremonies.<br />
<strong>the</strong> use <strong>of</strong> hearing aids in this population<br />
is very low.<br />
The Research Institute on Aging has<br />
published a series <strong>of</strong> papers on this common<br />
chronic ailment, and on <strong>the</strong> wide<br />
range <strong>of</strong> barriers that prevent individuals<br />
from using hearing aids, including cost,<br />
Revitz House<br />
If you walk by on a Tuesday<br />
afternoon, you might see a crowd <strong>of</strong><br />
enthusiastic viewers watching opera.<br />
Then, if you’re lucky you might hear<br />
<strong>the</strong> wonderful presentation by <strong>the</strong> man<br />
we know simply as “Opera Irv.”<br />
Irv, whose real name is Irv Nurik,<br />
has been coming to Revitz House with<br />
his opera program for five years. He<br />
brings his enthusiasm and love <strong>of</strong> opera,<br />
not just to Revitz but also to <strong>the</strong> JCC,<br />
Irv Nurick, “Opera Irv,”<br />
helps Revitz House<br />
residents develop an<br />
appreciation <strong>of</strong> opera.<br />
Holiday Park, and<br />
o<strong>the</strong>r venues.<br />
Perhaps Irv’s<br />
music comes from<br />
his background as a<br />
ma<strong>the</strong>matician. (Neurologists now tell<br />
us music and math abilities are both in<br />
<strong>the</strong> same part <strong>of</strong> our brains.) Irv ran a<br />
family business in <strong>New</strong> Jersey, served<br />
in counter-intelligence during World<br />
War II and has a B.A. from <strong>New</strong> York<br />
University and a master’s degree from<br />
Columbia University. He has four<br />
grown children and seven grandchildren.<br />
He has lived in this area for 11 years.<br />
The residents say he makes opera<br />
“clearer” for <strong>the</strong>m. One <strong>of</strong> our residents,<br />
Alice Gutter stated, “He supplies us with<br />
music to lift our spirits.” ■<br />
inconvenience, fear <strong>of</strong> calling attention<br />
to <strong>the</strong> handicap, and problems with <strong>the</strong><br />
devices <strong>the</strong>mselves.<br />
For additional information contact<br />
Dr. Jiska Cohen-Mansfield at<br />
cohen-mansfield@hebrew-home.org. ■<br />
www.smithlifecommunities.org June 2007 | Page 5
LifeLines<br />
Torah Project earns<br />
national award<br />
This spring brought ano<strong>the</strong>r cause for<br />
celebration involving <strong>the</strong> new, lightweight<br />
Torah commissioned for <strong>the</strong> <strong>Hebrew</strong><br />
<strong>Home</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Greater</strong> <strong>Washington</strong>: <strong>the</strong> yearlong<br />
project that brought this scroll into<br />
being received <strong>the</strong> Association <strong>of</strong> Jewish<br />
Aging Services’ 2007 award for creative<br />
Jewish programming.<br />
The award was announced at <strong>the</strong><br />
international association’s annual conference<br />
in <strong>New</strong> Orleans. “After <strong>the</strong> award<br />
was presented, leaders from nursing<br />
homes all over <strong>the</strong> country inquired about<br />
<strong>the</strong> program and said how much <strong>the</strong>y<br />
admired <strong>the</strong> vision <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Home</strong> and <strong>the</strong><br />
donors who made <strong>the</strong> project possible,”<br />
said Rabbi James Michaels, director <strong>of</strong><br />
pastoral care at <strong>the</strong> <strong>Home</strong>. “This Torah<br />
scroll is <strong>the</strong> first ever commissioned by<br />
a nursing home.”<br />
The Torah Project, generously funded<br />
by <strong>the</strong> Helyn and Louis Fanar<strong>of</strong>f Charitable<br />
Foundation, created a scroll light enough<br />
for frail seniors to lift and carry, and<br />
involving as many elderly residents<br />
as possible in its creation. ■<br />
Dental volunteers, including<br />
dentists and hygienists,<br />
staffed 98 clinic sessions at<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>Home</strong> last year, bringing<br />
dental care to our residents.<br />
In addition, <strong>the</strong><br />
Alpha Omega Foundation<br />
has generously supported<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>Hebrew</strong> <strong>Home</strong>. Drs.<br />
Bud Rothstein, Ralph<br />
Rothstein, Richard Meltzer<br />
and Ben Williamowsky<br />
present a donation <strong>of</strong><br />
$1,000 to President/CEO<br />
Warren Slavin (fourth<br />
from left).<br />
Letter to <strong>the</strong> entire 2-West Staff,<br />
All Shifts, Wasserman Building<br />
FROM: Donna Bailey, daughter <strong>of</strong> Bessie Jenkins<br />
RE: My Sincere Thanks<br />
My mo<strong>the</strong>r’s sudden illness <strong>of</strong> Meningitis devastated me and forever<br />
changed my life. In <strong>the</strong> past, I have heard nothing but horror stories<br />
regarding nursing homes. Having to make <strong>the</strong> quick decision in one day<br />
to send my mo<strong>the</strong>r to such a place for recovery troubled me. You all have<br />
shown me that every nursing home isn’t <strong>the</strong> same; that one home<br />
shouldn’t paint <strong>the</strong> picture for all nursing homes.<br />
You all caring for my mo<strong>the</strong>r made all <strong>the</strong> difference in <strong>the</strong> world and<br />
I want you to know that I appreciate it so, so much. From <strong>the</strong> persons who<br />
patiently explained everything to me regarding her care, to <strong>the</strong> person who<br />
administered medicines; from <strong>the</strong> person who always called to keep me<br />
updated, to <strong>the</strong> person who checked her vital signs; from <strong>the</strong> person who<br />
changed momma’s clothing and cleaned her, to <strong>the</strong> person who cleaned <strong>the</strong><br />
room; from <strong>the</strong> person who spoon-fed her, to <strong>the</strong> person who turned on her<br />
music, TV or placed her in her wheelchair. Even to those <strong>of</strong> you who just<br />
dropped in to speak with her and pray over her. I can’t thank God enough<br />
for each and every one <strong>of</strong> you.<br />
THANK YOU so much for caring for my beloved mo<strong>the</strong>r. The excellent<br />
care and compassion you gave was a BLESSING. You made this tragic<br />
experience a lot easier to cope with. May God bless you abundantly.<br />
I appreciate it so much and I will not forget what you’ve done. ■<br />
Rabbi James Michaels shows resident Dvoira<br />
Rososhanskaya and Sophia Presman <strong>the</strong> award.<br />
Page 6 | June 2007 www.smithlifecommunities.org LifeTimes
Speaker Lauren<br />
Weisberger meets<br />
some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> residents<br />
who attended <strong>the</strong><br />
Aunt Minnie<br />
Luncheon as guests.<br />
Author charms<br />
Aunt Minnie guests<br />
Almost 600 guests came<br />
toge<strong>the</strong>r for <strong>the</strong> annual Women’s<br />
Auxiliary Aunt Minnie Luncheon<br />
on April 25 at <strong>the</strong> Be<strong>the</strong>sda North<br />
Marriott Hotel and Conference<br />
Center.<br />
Guest speaker Lauren<br />
Weisberger, author <strong>of</strong> The Devil<br />
Wears Prada, won over <strong>the</strong> audience<br />
with her humor and unaffected<br />
manner; she entertained guests<br />
with her experiences as <strong>the</strong> assistant<br />
to <strong>the</strong> Editor-in-Chief <strong>of</strong> Vogue<br />
magazine and <strong>the</strong> story <strong>of</strong> how<br />
her bestseller came into being.<br />
The Auxiliary honored Judy<br />
Protas with <strong>the</strong> Aunt Minnie<br />
Goldsmith Award for outstanding<br />
volunteer service to <strong>the</strong> community.<br />
Special thanks to Valerie<br />
Lederberg, president <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Women’s Auxiliary, and her<br />
dedicated committee for making<br />
this annual event a success. ■<br />
EventMakers<br />
Author Lauren Weisberger chats with<br />
luncheon guests as she autographs<br />
copies <strong>of</strong> her bestseller.<br />
Women’s Auxiliary President<br />
Valerie Lederberg pulls a winning<br />
door prize number at <strong>the</strong> Aunt<br />
Minnie Luncheon.<br />
Aunt Minnie Award honoree Judy<br />
Protas and her husband Martin<br />
enjoy <strong>the</strong> program.<br />
Photos by Randy Sager<br />
An endowment for charity care<br />
When Irving P. Cohen, past chairman <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Hebrew</strong> <strong>Home</strong>,<br />
told President/CEO Warren Slavin that he would like to bring<br />
his friends Louis and Libby Pohoryles to visit <strong>the</strong> <strong>Home</strong>, he<br />
never could have predicted that <strong>the</strong> meeting would create a<br />
lasting relationship.<br />
Louis Pohoryles, a Holocaust survivor, and his wife Libby<br />
were very impressed with <strong>the</strong> <strong>Home</strong> and <strong>the</strong> entire Charles<br />
E. Smith Life Communities. After learning about a number <strong>of</strong><br />
funding opportunities, <strong>the</strong>y asked what was <strong>the</strong> most pressing<br />
need.<br />
The <strong>Hebrew</strong> <strong>Home</strong> is very pleased to announce <strong>the</strong> creation<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Louis and Libby Pohoryles Philanthropic Endowment for<br />
Resident Charity Care. This most generously funded endowment<br />
will enable <strong>the</strong> <strong>Home</strong> to stay true to its core mission <strong>of</strong> providing<br />
care for <strong>the</strong> elderly, particularly those in greatest need.<br />
Mr. and Mrs. Pohoryles are actively involved in Montgomery<br />
County life. Their three children and five grandchildren keep<br />
<strong>the</strong>m busy, but <strong>the</strong>y still make time to continue <strong>the</strong>ir involvement<br />
with local charities. Libby was a volunteer at <strong>the</strong> <strong>Hebrew</strong> <strong>Home</strong><br />
over 30 years ago and is considering returning to volunteer again.<br />
We welcome <strong>the</strong>m to <strong>the</strong> <strong>Hebrew</strong> <strong>Home</strong> family and thank<br />
<strong>the</strong>m for <strong>the</strong>ir generosity and caring. ■<br />
Calling all golfers and runners!<br />
It’s not too early to start training – mark your calendar now<br />
for <strong>the</strong>se two great fall events.<br />
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18<br />
Charles E. Smith Life Communities<br />
Golf Outing<br />
The Members Club at Four Streams<br />
Chair: Devin Schain<br />
The field is limited to 100 players,<br />
so check <strong>the</strong> website for registration<br />
information and sponsorship<br />
information, or contact<br />
301.770.8351 or<br />
lerner@hebrew-home.org<br />
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 30<br />
The <strong>Home</strong> Run 10k/5k/fun run<br />
Chair: Harvey Goodman<br />
This community event benefits <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>Hebrew</strong> <strong>Home</strong> and Jewish Foundation<br />
for Group <strong>Home</strong>s. This year features<br />
a new race route, which will end at<br />
Federal Plaza on East Jefferson Street.<br />
Post-race activities will include lots <strong>of</strong><br />
fun for kids, prizes for winning runners<br />
and great food and beverages, in a<br />
festive new setting. For information<br />
check www.hebrew-home.org ■<br />
www.smithlifecommunities.org June 2007 | Page 7
HEBREW HOME OF GREATER WASHINGTON<br />
LANDOW HOUSE • RING HOUSE • REVITZ HOUSE<br />
HIRSH HEALTH CENTER • RESEARCH INSTITUTE ON AGING<br />
6121 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852-4856<br />
NON-PROFIT<br />
U.S. POSTAGE<br />
PAID<br />
Permit #2913<br />
Rockville, MD<br />
20850<br />
Jewish holidays, Russian Victory Day and Cinco<br />
de Mayo – residents at <strong>the</strong> <strong>Hebrew</strong> <strong>Home</strong> find<br />
many reasons to celebrate life. Edna Gilmore<br />
and Marie Dean enjoy Flamenco dancers who<br />
performed at <strong>the</strong> <strong>Home</strong>.<br />
How to<br />
Reach Us<br />
■ <strong>Hebrew</strong> <strong>Home</strong><br />
301.770.8476<br />
www.hebrew-home.org<br />
■ Hirsh Health Center<br />
301.816.5004<br />
■ Landow House<br />
301.816.5060<br />
www.landowhouse.org<br />
■ Revitz House<br />
301.881.7400<br />
www.revitzhouse.org<br />
■ Ring House<br />
301.816.5012<br />
www.ringhouse.org<br />
■ Volunteer Programs<br />
301.770.8333<br />
www.smithlifecommunities.org<br />
LifeTimes is published quarterly by <strong>the</strong> <strong>Hebrew</strong> <strong>Home</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Greater</strong><br />
<strong>Washington</strong>, Inc. The <strong>Hebrew</strong> <strong>Home</strong> is registered in Maryland as<br />
a charitable organization. Documents and information filed under<br />
<strong>the</strong> Maryland Charitable Solicitation Act may be obtained from<br />
<strong>the</strong> Maryland Secretary <strong>of</strong> State, 410.974.5534. We are an equal<br />
opportunity employer and we provide access to community<br />
programs without regard to race, age, national origin, familial<br />
status, religion, sex or disability. Our services and programs are<br />
open to all in <strong>the</strong> community.<br />
Hanita Schreiber, Chair<br />
Warren R. Slavin, President/CEO<br />
Marilyn Feldman, Editor<br />
Nicholas Simmonds, Vice President,<br />
Development and Public Affairs<br />
© 2007 by The <strong>Hebrew</strong> <strong>Home</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Greater</strong> <strong>Washington</strong><br />
6121 Montrose Road, Rockville, MD 20852-4856<br />
301.881.0300<br />
Support <strong>the</strong> <strong>Hebrew</strong> <strong>Home</strong> through your gift to United Way/CFC. ■✓Check 8111.<br />
CampusCalendar<br />
Special Events<br />
1st Monday <strong>of</strong> every month<br />
“Lunch & Learn,” at Ring House, 12:30–1:30 p.m. with Rabbi Samuel Scolnic, Rabbi Emeritus <strong>of</strong> Beth El<br />
Synagogue. Treat yourself to lunch at <strong>the</strong> Ring House snack bar prior to <strong>the</strong> program and to thought-provoking<br />
discussions. Parking available across <strong>the</strong> street at Panera.<br />
3 June<br />
Builders <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Future brunch, 10:30 a.m. at Ring House, featuring Laura Cohen Apelbaum <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Jewish Historical<br />
Society, speaking about “Jewish <strong>Washington</strong>: Scrapbook <strong>of</strong> an American Community.” RSVP at 301.770.8342.<br />
18 September<br />
Golf Outing, Members Club at Four Streams, see page 7.<br />
30 September<br />
<strong>Home</strong> Run Race, course begins at <strong>Hebrew</strong> <strong>Home</strong> and ends at<br />
Federal Plaza, register online at www.hebrew-home.org.<br />
Financial Planning Fall Series<br />
PLAN AHEAD:<br />
December 8th<br />
Starlight Ball<br />
Philip W.S. Fish <strong>of</strong> Sandy Spring Bank will present a special three-part series<br />
on “Comprehensive Estate Planning.” Sessions on November 1, 8, and 15 will cover “Fundamentals <strong>of</strong> Estate<br />
Planning,” “Wills vs. Trusts – Which is Best For You?,” “Executing Your Comprehensive Estate Plan.”<br />
Admission is free. Reservations are required. Call 1.800.399.5919 ext. 6795, or register online<br />
at www.hebrew-home.org<br />
Family and Caregivers Support Group<br />
This support group is open to caregivers in <strong>the</strong> community as well as Charles E. Smith Life Communities families;<br />
second and fourth Fridays <strong>of</strong> each month, 1–2 p.m. in <strong>the</strong> Smith-Kogod Residence. Contact Laurie Goldman,<br />
301.770.8490.<br />
Page 8 | June 2007 www.smithlifecommunities.org LifeTimes