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December 2013

A Year in Review Newsletter

LeadingAge Connecticut Annual Meeting

On October 8, 2013, LeadingAge Connecticut held its annual meeting and award ceremony at The Aqua Turf Club in Plantsville, Connecticut. Local TV personality Scot Haney kicked off the event by paying tribute to our “Heroes of the Storms.” Five individuals were honored during the annual LeadingAge Connecticut awards ceremony. Patrick J. Gilland, President of Church Homes, Inc. was honored with the Distinguished Service Award. The Distinguished Service Award is presented to an individual whose dedicated leadership, outstanding service and personal commitment over the years have furthered the goals of LeadingAge Connecticut and enhanced the quality of life for the elderly we serve. Ralph Mann from Southington Care Center/CCSHS was awarded the LeadingAge Connecticut Humanitarian Award. This award is presented to an individual whose personal integrity, decency and contributions to the elderly best exemplify the ideals of the LeadingAge Connecticut member organizations and their missions. The LeadingAge Connecticut Volunteer of the Year Award is a special award that honors a person who generously volunteers their time to serve seniors. Mark Simon, a volunteer from Notre Dame Convalescent Home, was the recipient of this year’s Volunteer of the Year Award. LeadingAge Connecticut was pleased to also present the Legislators of the Year Award to State Representative Catherine Abercrombie and State Senator Gayle Slossberg . This award is presented to one or more legislators that have distinguished themselves by developing and supporting public policies that are beneficial to LeadingAge Connecticut members and aging individuals in our society. A special Chair’s Award was presented to Patty Morse, President of Connecticut Baptist Homes for her huge personal commitment to ensuring the success of the first LeadingAge Connecticut Leadership Academy.

Patrick J. Gilland being presented the Distinguished Service Award by Joe Guticelli, Sodexo Senior Living, Trish Walden, Chair, and

Molly Savard, Awards Committee Chair

Mark Simon being presented the Volunteer of the Year Award by Sister Marie Lucey, Joe

Guticelli, Sodexo Senior Living, Trish Walden, Chair, and Molly Savard, Awards Committee

Chair.

State Representative Catherine Abercrombie being presented the Legislator of the Year Award by Joe Guticelli, Sodexo Senior Living,

Trish Walden, Chair, and Molly Savard, Awards Committee Chair

Patty Morse being presented the Chair’s Award by Trish Walden, LeadingAge

Connecticut Chair

2014 LeadingAge Connecticut Board of Directors

Many thanks to the Grand Sponsors of the Annual Meeting: BlumShapiro, McKesson Optum (formerly Ever‐care) and Omnicare. Thank you to the Awards Sponsor Sodexo Senior Living, Cocktail Reception Sponsor Wiggin and Dana, Gift Sponsor Murtha Cullina and all the reception exhibitors.

Elections of the new officers and members to the Board of Directors was held at the Annual Meeting in October. The 2014 Officers

and Board of Directors for LeadingAge Connecticut include:

Officers

Patricia Morse, Chair, Connecticut Baptist Homes, Inc.

William Fiocchetta, Vice Chair, Mercy Community Health, Inc.

Lynn Iverson, Treasurer, Saint Joseph Living Center

Bonnie Gauthier, President & CEO, Hebrew Health Care, Inc.

Patricia Walden, Immediate Past Chair, Central Connecticut Senior Health Services

Directors

Peter Belval, Sharon Health Care Center

David Bordonaro, McLean

Bill Fairbairn, New Samaritan Corporation

Patrick Gilland, Church Homes, Inc.

David Hunter, Mary Wade Home

Stephen McPherson, Masonicare

Jason Rosenman, Fairview

Mary R. Windt, The Marvin/Under One Roof, Inc.

Newly sworn in members of the 2014 Board of Directors from left to right: Trish Walden, Immediate Past Chair(CCSHS), Bonnie Gauthier, Secretary

(Hebrew Health Care, Inc.), Jason Rosenman (Fairview), Stephen McPherson (Masonicare), David Hunter (Mary Wade Home) and David Bordonaro

(McLean)

Thank you to the Annual Meeting Grand Sponsors

Trish Walden passing the gavel to newly elected Chair Patty Morse

Honoring the Heroes of the Storms

Over the last twelve months, Connecticut faced two historic weather events – Super Storm Sandy and the February Blizzard of 2013. LeadingAge Connecticut decided to look back on those events to celebrate the manner in which staff members rallied together to ensure the health and safety of the elderly we serve. These “Heroes of the Storms” stood out for their extraordinary efforts and they represented the dedication and commitment of all your staff members who care for our elderly each and every day. Scot Haney, WFSB Weatherman attended the LeadingAge Connecticut Annual Meeting to assist in honoring the tremendous efforts of our “Heroes of the Storms.” LeadingAge Connecticut would like to honor the following “Heroes of the Storms”: Alzheimer’s Resource Center: Bob Swaby, Liz Gilbert, Andy Alicki, Rita Berstrand, Lela Heltke, Jessenia San‐chez, Angelene Jordan, Lydia Rivera, Haydee Martinez, Lourdes Cabrera, Dorothy Porter, Pertia Wright, Katie Fullam, Ligia Nieves, Margaret Shover, Glen Eccelston, Angelene Jordon, and Tom Hayden Cherry Brook Health Care Center: The entire Cherry Brook Team Crosby Commons, United Methodist Homes: Mary Ann Griffiths Hebrew Health Care, Inc.: Paulette Vanrelle, David Dionne, RN, Verna Wilson, Shirley Alexander, Rabbi Gary Lavit, Helen Steiner, Robert Morris, and Rhoni Yearwood Hoffman Summerwood Community: Katelyn Sullivan, John Buccini, Robin Lund, Cheval Atkins, Brittany Hud‐son, Philip Penna, Lillian Stewart, and Joan Carney Jefferson House: Robert Pettinicchi Mary Wade Home: The Mary Wade Team Masonicare Home Health & Hospice: Dot Baliban, Julie Lopiano, Elizabeth Tracey and Brian Jin Masonicare at Ashlar Village: The Maintenance Crew and Dining Staff Masonicare Health Center: Ken Jenkins, Brett Festa, Joel Melendez, Bozena Duszynka, Theresa Amendola, Maryrose Sola, Dave Coyle, Kelly Sturtevant, Jenny Wills, Carl Anderson, Jack Abascal, Tony Hernandez, Tony Armelin, John Basile, Andy Proulx and Owen Wilks Masonicare at Newtown: The Masonicare Newtown Team Masonicare Home Health & Hospice and Masonicare Partners Home Health & Hospice: The Home Health and Hospice Teams Monsignor Bojnowski Manor: Rosie Centeno, Heather O’Bright, Julio Ortiz and Chris Williams Saint Mary Home: Bill Hall Seabury Retirement Community: Steve Long Southington Care Center: Rit Swenton St. Luke’s Eldercare Services: Marvin Hendricks The Bradley Home: Fred Miglietta and Luz Miglietta The Marvin/Under One Roof: Jeff Shapiro of Creative Culinary Services, Ivan Obando, Edguardo Delgado, Samantha Ruiz, Barbara Hoffman and the Masonicare team of Retrinda Thomas, Berth Choeur, Joe LaBaze, and Lucy Guijda, Yolanda Milambwe, Maria Maldonado, Chris Francello, and Jose Vivieca

A few of the “Heroes of the Storms” recognized at the 2013 Annual Meeting

New England States Night Out in Dallas

The LeadingAge Annual Meeting took place in Dallas, Texas on October 27‐30, 2013. Over 10,000 national members gathered to learn and network at the over 200 educational sessions, tradeshow and other various meetings. Seventy‐five representatives from LeadingAge Connecticut travelled to Dallas and participated in this outstanding conference. LeadingAge Connecticut joined the other New England states for a night out at the iconic Gilley’s. The popular New England State's Night Out featured a delicious array of appetizers and was a relaxing evening. Those that attended enjoyed the change of pace from the meetings and educational sessions during the day. LeadingAge Connecticut would like to thank Sodexo, and HJ Sims for generously sponsoring the event. The 2014 LeadingAge conference will be October 19‐22 in Nashville, Tennessee. We hope to see you there!

Kathy Mon and Zell Gaston Teresa Wells and David Hunter Linda Langlais and Chris Newton

Congratulations to the 2014 LeadingAge Connecticut Leadership Academy Class

LeadingAge Connecticut would like to congratulate the class of fellows accepted into the 2014 Connecticut Leadership Academy.

Amanda Aaron, Hebrew Health Care, Inc. Kimberly Bumbera, Alzheimer’s Research Center

Stacy Carleton, Southington Care Center Bill Dadlani, Masonicare Health Center

Sylvia DiBiasi, Seabury Retirement Community Sarah Fields, Connecticut Baptist Homes

Cindy Harrigan, Seabury Retirement Community Thomas Hayden, Alzheimer’s Resource Center

Matthew Lahickey, Central Connecticut Senior Health Services Kimberly Magalhaes, Masonicare

Will Menoche, Arbor Rose at Jerome Home Cheryl Olson, Central Connecticut Senior Health Services

Almerinda Onorato, Whitney Center Michelle Pandolfi, Qualidigm Lori Piscani, Mulberry Gardens

David P. Stevens, The McAuley/Mercy Community June Taraschuk, Hebrew Health Care, Inc.

LeadingAge Connecticut's Summer Series Sizzled

This past summer, LeadingAge Connecticut held an Actionable Series for Proactive Planning. The series was comprised of six different comprehensive webinars and workshops designed to provide education on health care reform and create thinking points for each member organization’s future. The Summer Series began with two webinars from Simione Healthcare Consultants on “What Role can Homecare Play in Your Strategic Plan?” and “How Might Hospice Enhance Your Scope of Services?” Mid July, Michael Slavik from CliftonLarsonAllen presented a self assessment strategic planning tool in a webinar titled “What Your Organization's Self Assessment May Never Reveal.” In August, Kate McEvoy, Interim Director of Health Services, Connecticut DSS, Michael Slavik, CliftonLarsonAllen and Irving Stackpole, Stackpole Associates presented a workshop on “How Actionable Are Your Organization’s Future Goals?” Maureen Weaver, Esq and her associates from Wiggin and Dana presented an insightful webinar on “Legal Issues to Avoid When Creating Strategic Partnerships.” The entire series concluded with a comprehensive wrap up webinar by Lois Dostalik where she helped attendees pull together everything they learned from the series and how to use it to create actionable steps for their own facility’s proactive planning. LeadingAge Connecticut would like to thank the multiple speakers that made this series possible as well as the support from All Star Therapy and Morrison.

Kate McEvoy, Interim Director of Health Services, Connecticut DSS speaking on August 5th

Transfer of Assets and Applied Income Legislation Program

Beginning October 1, 2013, new legislation will provide Connecticut skilled nurs‐ing facilities two new options for tackling bad debts . LeadingAge Connecticut led the passage with this new transfer of assets and applied income law and we were pleased to join Wiggin and Dana to co‐host a member program on August 29th at Workers Compensation Trust in Wallingford, CT to explain it. Maureen Weaver, Esq., Steve Malech, Esq. and Matt Brown, Esq. presented on the new legislation, provided strategies for tackling bad debts and gave examples of legal lessons learned from their combined experiences. Many thanks to Wiggin and Dana for not only for this presentation, but also for their tremendous assistance in passing the legislation. The importance of this issue to our membership was shown by the standing room only attendance at this program!

Left to right: Matt Brown, Esq, Maureen Weaver, Esq. and Steve Malech, Esq.

2013 at a Glance

The 53rd Annual Meeting welcomed LeadingAge Connecticut’s newly elected Board Chair, Patricia Morse, President, Connecticut Baptist Homes and recognized our numerous “Heroes of the Storms” during a special ceremony hosted by WFSB Weatherman, Scot Haney.

The Annual LeadingAge Connecticut Awards Ceremony honored individuals for their contributions to our field and to those we serve. This year we honored Distinguished Service Award recipient Patrick J. Gilland, Hu‐manitarian Award recipient Ralph Mann, Legislators of the Year Award recipients State Representative Cath‐erine Abercrombie and State Senator Gayle Slossberg and Volunteer of the Year Award recipient Mark Simon.

LeadingAge Connecticut’s legislative and regulatory advocacy efforts remained strong as we combined to lead with a legislative agenda aimed at shaping the future of aging services in Connecticut. Together with our excellent advocacy team of Wiggin and Dana our legal counsel, Robinson & Cole our lobbying firm, and Blum Shapiro our reimbursement consultants, we provided exemplary representation on behalf of our members in the halls of the State Capitol and the offices of our state agencies. LeadingAge Connecticut members were kept‐up‐to‐date on our advocacy efforts and current events through the

member‐only “Capitol Line” weekly e‐newsletter, our timely legislative alerts, and a comprehensive legislative year end summary prepared by Wiggin and Dana. LeadingAge Connecticut members, staff, and consultants were active participants in the state’s various task forces and committees charged with assisting in the transformation and rebalancing of the Medicaid program and we continued to have a representative on the Money Follows the Person Steering Committee and the Long Term Care Advisory Committee. We also maintained an active presence at the Medicaid Network Adequacy Task Force and the Alzheimer’s Task Force. LeadingAge Connecticut held timely and insightful programming to assist our members in thinking strategically

about the future and in making the strategic decisions necessary to position their organizations for the new landscape of long term services, supports and housing. A strategic priority for the association, we will continue to provide education, information and services that will help our members develop strategies to position their organization now for long term sustainability. LeadingAge Connecticut Leadership Academy graduated our first class of bright and eager fellows who experienced a year‐long leadership development program modeled after the LeadingAge national leadership program. In January, eighteen new fellows will be entering the second class of this statewide Leadership Academy.

LeadingAge Connecticut members were inspired at the Annual EXPO and Tradeshow in the spring which featured a keynote address by Connecticut Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman and the Annual Employee of the Year Awards. Attendees were entertained by our “LeadingAge Connecticut’s Got Talent” competition on the tradeshow floor. Save the date of May 14th for EXPO 2014. Excellent educational opportunities were offered throughout the year. A six part actionable series for proactive planning entitled “Expanding the Possibilities: Leveraging Change to Build a Resilient Organization” was launched to assist members with the strategic planning process. LeadingAge Connecticut’s Board of Directors

meetings, open to the membership, featured valuable and timely information and discussion. Member‐only educational breakfast sessions on timely topics were also held prior to the Board meetings. Savings opportunities continued with Nick DeFrancesco helping members access our Group Purchasing program, Value First, which provides excellent pricing on products focused on the needs of long‐term care and senior housing providers. Sign up today! It’s simple, just contact Nick at [email protected], 860.828.2903.

LeadingAge Connecticut offers a strong and distinct voice for our members from across the continuum of aging services, supports and housing. Together with our members we work to expand the world of possibilities for aging. The

following highlights from the past year demonstrate our mission to inspire, serve and advocate.

Looking Ahead to 2014

January 14: Board of Directors and Membership meeting January 23‐24: Leadership Academy session 1 February 5: State Legislative session begins February 6: MDS 101 training February 11: Board of Directors meeting February 25: Smart Moves conference February 27: MDS 101 training snow date March 5: Maintenance and Housekeeping Symposium March 11: Board of Directors and Membership meeting March 17‐19: LeadingAge Leadership Conference in Washington, DC March 27‐28: Leadership Academy session 2 April 8: Board of Directors meeting May 7: State Legislative session ends May 14: LeadingAge Connecticut EXPO and Tradeshow June 10: Board of Directors meeting June 13: Senior Living Symposium June 16‐17: Leadership Academy session 3 July 8: Board of Directors retreat September 11‐12: Leadership Academy session 4 September 9: Board of Directors and Membership meeting October 14: LeadingAge Connecticut Annual Meeting October 19‐22: LeadingAge Annual Meeting & Exposition in Nashville, TN November 6: Annual Survey & Certification Program November 11: Board of Directors Meeting

Bishop Wicke at Wesley Village Completes Renovation Project

Bishop Wicke Health and Rehabilitation Center at Wesley Village celebrated the completion of a renovation project which brings relationship centered care closer to their residents. The renovations included re‐designed nursing stations which removed the physical barriers that prevented families and residents in wheelchairs from connecting with staff. Nursing stations have evolved into “interdisciplinary work centers” and encourage interaction between staff, residents, families and guests. Also part of the upgrades, which were reviewed and critiqued by staff, residents and families during the renovation project, were updated sitting and dining areas, therapy rooms, furniture, artwork, flooring, ceiling, lighting, technology and more. Bishop Wicke received a waiver from the state for this innovative care initiative, which was considered “out of the box” idea for their 120 bed facility.

New Bishop Wicke entrance

Elim Park Healthcare Center has seen changes of huge proportions in the past year. Changes began in March 2013 and continue on an exciting path. This path, which leads us to the revamped and refreshed Patio, is fun to explore. What was once a mere concrete slab, with a few lonely chairs, is now a home to animals and gardens, and most importantly, our reinvigorated residents. At any given time, we see inpatients, outpatients, staff and volunteers frequenting the Patio. Residents are introducing their guests to the enhancements and together are exploring our neighborhood ducks, chickens, koi pond, vegetable gardens and raised herb beds. You can look – but please don’t pick the veggies. They are probably on the menu for tomorrow’s luncheon made by participants in our dynamic Therapeutic Recreation program. And when they get cooking, everybody’s on the guest list. Come see us and experience the changes. Take a tour and visit our new country kitchen. There will always be a place set for new friends as all are welcome at Elim Park. Come have your expectations exceeded. The transformation of the garden area began with residents planting Swiss chard, kale, beets, carrots, corn, and string beans from seed. This fall, Elim had a bountiful harvest of 50 ears of corn from 12 plants, 15 eggplants from five plants, and a few bushels of string beans. In the herb garden, they continue to grow and dry rosemary, two types of basil, thyme, oregano, lavender, eucalyptus, and catnip. Residents, under the watchful eye of Jennifer Kolstad, Director of Therapeutic Recreation and her dedicated team, have cooked up delicious homemade tomato sauce, eggplant Parmesan, Swiss chard strata, and other mouth‐watering dishes with the produce from the homegrown herb and vegetable gardens. The residents themselves are flourishing with the mission of tending the gardens and cooking for their fellow residents. Staff and visitors alike are able to partake and are enjoying the fruits of these labors of love.

In April, nine ducks arrived at Elim Park as one‐day old ducklings, including eight females and one drake named Ralph. When the ducks began to lay their eggs in September, the residents resourcefully used the eggs to make delicious egg custard. In May, they set about hatching chickens in incubators and now have 21 hens, which the residents are all eager to pick names for. The hens are expected to lay their eggs soon and as young chickens they will lay an egg a day. Residents are already planning all of the wonderful desserts and dishes that they will make with the future eggs. The two story chicken coop, built to allow

residents using wheelchairs to roll up and gather eggs without any assistance, was custom made for Elim Park by Amish carpenters in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

The chickens and ducks have become a major attraction at Elim Park. On weekends, the courtyard is full of residents and families watching and discussing the antics of the animals. The chickens enjoy the attention of the residents and will walk up to the perch near the windows to be hand fed by residents. The functional ability of many folks has been increased because of the new initiatives. These responsibilities are bringing residents closer to one another, their language skills and communication abilities are stronger. Their attitudes are positive and there is a pep in their step, not always seen before. Quality of life increased and the trend seems to be contagious. Both skilled residents and independent living residents have easy access to the patio. Now decorated with seasonal décor, the space has been transformed into a relaxing and entertaining space for all to enjoy.

Elim Park’s Creative Take on Recreation and Dining

On June 25, 2013, Hebrew Health Care was honored with the Workforce Innovator Award. The award was presented by the MetroHartford Alliance Careers (MACH), which is made up of Capital Workforce Partners (CWP) and the Connecticut Women’s Education and Legal Fund (CWALF). The award was in recognition of Hebrew Health Care’s positive contributions to the health care workforce. Hebrew Health Care partners with the Collaborative on training a new generation of certified nursing assistants. Kathy Mon, Vice President and COO at Hebrew Health Care remarked, “We are proud to be part of a Collaborative that is training the next generation of exceptional workers to care for the aging population serviced throughout any of our affiliates.”

Hebrew Health Care Honored with “Workforce Innovator” Award

Aliza Jenkins, owner of Aliza’s Creative Strokes (and past resident at Cherry Brook) recently loaned Cherry Brook a small sampling of her impressive art collection to be displayed in the Center’s front lobby and is open to the community to view. Aliza was 38 years old and working full time and attending college to obtain her MBA when she sustained a major stroke in July 2007. She then resided at Cherry Brook Health Care Center

Cherry Brook Health Care Center Presents: Aliza’s Creative Strokes

for a year and worked hard every single day in therapy until she was well enough to move out and live on her own. Prior to her stroke, Aliza was right handed and very artistic. Among other things, she wrote calligraphy, solved Sudoko puzzles, baked and decorated cakes and was a fierce scrabble player. After her stroke, Aliza added another artistic hobby: she started painting. Although her right side was affected, Aliza was determined NOT to have that deter her. She paints with her non dominant, left hand! She chooses the style and subject matter of the artwork and, with the assistance of another artist, Judith Bird, owner of Expressive Arts in Burlington, CT (who she met at Cherry Brook), Aliza does all the painting herself. To date, she has painted over 50 pieces. Aliza started her own company, Creative Strokes, where she sells her artwork at local art fairs.

Aliza Jenkins and a sampling of her paintings on display at Cherry Brook

Health Care Center

SummerWood held a ribbon cutting ceremony as it officially opened a new library for residents which includes a comfortable reading room and a reading machine for those with low vision. Residents, family members and friends have been generous in donating books and magazine subscriptions chosen by the library committee members Edith Ziffer and Sylvia Pasternak. On the same day, another ribbon was cut by SummmerWood’s Member Council President, Leah Bronner as The Club was re‐opened with a new “pub” atmosphere, featuring a new bar, flat screen TV, fireplace, and other accessories, making it a more enticing spot for residents to socialize.

Hoffman SummerWood Community Opens New Library and Re‐Opens Club

SummerWood resident Edith Ziffer as she cuts ribbon at opening of the new library.

The Sister’s Project Gift Benefits Masonicare’s Hospice Program

The Inpatient Hospice Unit at Masonicare Health Center in Wallingford has received special pressure‐relieving air mattresses, clinical care recliners, and a mobile patient lift thanks to a generous donation to The Masonic Charity Foundation of Connecticut from The Sisters’ Project. The Sisters’ Project is a 501 (c) 3 charitable organization founded by a group of women in Wallingford committed to raising funds in support of cancer patients and their families. Turning its attention to projects within the community, the group decided to direct proceeds from its annual dinner dance event to the Inpatient Hospice Unit. “Thanks to the support of our family, friends and the Wallingford community at our annual fundraiser,” said Johnna Schlosser of The Sisters’ Project, “we were again able to provide essential equipment for the patients of the Inpatient Hospice Unit to assist and comfort them during a very difficult time.” Purchases made possible by the Sisters’ Project donation will provide hospice patients and their loved ones with increased comfort at a time when they need it most. The new mattresses and clinical care recliners will help with pain and symptom control in terminally ill patients, while the Maxi Move device will help clinical staff lift patients safely and comfortably. An integrated scale is an added feature. This is the third year The Sisters’ Project has focused its fundraising efforts on the Inpatient Hospice Unit at Masonicare Health Center, and the group has graciously pledged its continued support in 2014.

Members of The Sisters’ Project join Masonicare executive management staff in the Inpatient Hospice Unit at Masonicare Health Center

Celebrating 40 Years and a New Name: Jewish Senior Services

Celebrating 40 years as a leader in senior care services in Southern Connecticut, The Jewish Home has developed a new name to better reflect its full range of service offerings: Jewish Senior Services. “As we approach our 40th anniversary, we recognize the need to better communicate the wide range of services we already offer to seniors and their families,” said President & CEO Andrew H. Banoff. “The name Jewish Senior Services reflects that we are much more than a nursing home. Providing the best healthcare for seniors – wherever and whenever they need our services – remains our top priority.” The new tagline, “excellence in our home and yours,” reinforces the commitment, compassion, and trust that have earned the organization a strong reputation as senior care experts in the community and the industry.

Fairview Celebrates Groundbreaking of New Thames Edge Senior Living

The groundbreaking ceremony for Thames Edge Senior Living Community at Fairview took place on Saturday, September 7, 2013. The spectacular weather was a fitting start to the latest expansion of the Fairview, Odd Fellows Home of Connecticut campus. The event honored the long history and service provided by Fairview, Odd Fellows Home in southeastern Connecticut and welcomed new residents planning to occupy the new homes when they open in the second quarter of 2014. The groundbreaking was attended by State and local dignitaries, representatives from Odd Fellows’ Grand Lodge and Board of Directors, the project’s design and construction team, and staff and residents of the Fairview campus. Phase One construction of the new $13 million residential project includes 23 new independent‐living homes, a new 3,753 square‐foot recreation building with a seasonal pool, a small village green, and a main entrance and roadway off of Military Highway. Designed by Amenta/Emma Architects P.C., of Hartford, CT and being built by KBE Building Corporation, of Farmington, CT, this additional housing component at Fairview is being developed to provide seniors with the ability to continue to live in the beautiful greater Groton‐New London community in an independent capacity while, enjoying the benefits of community living and a guaranteed continuum of five star care throughout their lives.

Left to right: KBE Building Corporation Principal Simon Etzel; Stategic Building Solutions Project Manager Michael Bouwman; DiCesare Bentley

Principal Clint Brown; Fairview CEO & Administrator James Rosenman; Amenta Emma Architects Principal Robert Emma, and KBE Building

Corporation Preconstruction Manager Nigel Light

Overview of the new independent living homes at Thames. (Rendering courtesy of Amenta/Emma Architects)

Thames Edge at Fairview also includes a new 3,753 square‐foot recreation building with a seasonal pool. (Rendering courtesy of

Amenta/Emma Architects)

Lt Governor Nancy Wyman's Visit to The Marvin

In August, Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman visited The Marvin's full‐day, full‐year child daycare program and senior housing component to gain a better knowledge of how the intergenerational program works. Under One Roof Executive Director Mary Windt had invited the Lt. Governor and visit The Marvin the next time she was in Norwalk. "I reached out to the Lt. Gov. because I thought it would be a good opportunity for her to see how wonderful our programs are and to see the state's tax dollars at work," Windt said. "I'm thrilled to have her visit." The Marvin's congregate housing component was completed in 1997, which included the renovation of the former school building into a residential program space, including 14 housing units and an additional 36 units in a new addition. During her tour, Wyman chatted with

several residents who expressed contentment with their living situation. An abundance of intergenerational programming, which pairs the seniors with the young students, is one of the highlights Windt said makes the center different from traditional senior housing or child care facilities. "It's a great place to stay," said 98‐year‐old Betty Mayer. "We have everything we need and spending time with the children keeps us from getting old!" Wyman said she and Malloy are committed to providing quality senior services to ensure seniors live longer and enjoy happier lives. "I think this is such a great program and a great place," Wyman said. "This kind of situation and what you have here is absolutely wonderful."

Lt. Governor Wyman visiting with a child at The Marvin’s daycare

Lt. Governor Wyman visiting with The Marvin’s residents

A New Era in Group Purchasing has Arrived

A group purchasing organization of LeadingAge and State Affiliates

HOW TO ENROLL Enroll at no cost to you.

Contact Nick DeFrancesco at 860‐828‐2903 Ext. 16

or [email protected].

James Judson, RN, BSN, has joined Masonicare as the Director of Quality Improvement. In this role, Mr. Judson is responsible for planning and implementing quality improvement programs designed to enhance the high level of quality care and services Masonicare provides to patients and residents throughout the continuum.

LeadingAge Connecticut Member Spotlight

Jewish Senior Services is pleased to announce the appointment of Larry Condon as the new Administrator of The Jewish Home in Fairfield. Larry brings 25 years of experience and has dedicated his career to the care and support of seniors. He has served as Administrator in a number of communities and most recently, he served as the District Director of Operations for a large proprietary chain of nursing homes in Connecticut.

Jewish Senior Services is pleased to welcome Vittoria Gassman, M.D. as the organization’s new Medical Director of Long Term Care. Dr. Gassman, a well‐respected Geriatrician, received her medical degree from New York University School of Medicine, and her Bachelor of Arts from Harvard University.

Cherry Brook Health Care Center is pleased to announce the appointment of Tracy Reynolds, OT to the position of Director of Rehabilitation. Mrs. Reynolds is a seasoned professional with nineteen years of experience and has a diverse background in program development to include oversight of a successful Return To Work Program for injured employees.

Masonicare is pleased to announce that Thomas Gutner has been appointed to serve a 2 year term on the Connecticut Commission on Aging. A longtime member of Masonicare’s management team, Mr. Gutner served as Administrator for Masonicare’s Newtown campus for 28 years, Administrator at Masonicare Health Center, and since 2012, has been Assistant to the President & CEO.

Hilde Sager has been promoted to the position of Executive Director for Masonicare at Ashlar Village in Wallingford. She had been serving as the retirement community’s Assistant Administrator for Independent Living prior to her promotion. Ms. Sager recently completed the inaugural Leadership Academy program developed by LeadingAge Connecticut.

Elyse Dent has been named Administrator for Masonicare at Newtown. Previously, Ms. Dent served as Campus Administrator for New Canaan‐based Waveny Care Network, where she oversaw the Skilled Nursing Facility, Assisted Living, Adult Day Care Program and the Geriatric Evaluation clinic. She has also worked with the U.S. Army and taught Quality in Healthcare as an adjunct in the Master’s program at Western.

Ideas for Programs?

Many of our best program ideas have come from member suggestions. If you have an idea or see a need for a particular educational event, please contact Andrea Bellofiore at LeadingAge Connecticut at:

[email protected] 860‐828‐2903 x11

Tower One/Tower East Assisted Living Community

KBE Building Corporation has completed the fifth phase of renovations on the Tower One/Tower East assisted living community in New Haven, CT. Tower One, which opened in 1971, has been undergoing renovations since 2000, while Tower East, which opened in 1982, has been under renovation since 2012. The work is sponsored by the New Haven Jewish Community Housing Corporation. The multi‐year, multi‐phase project consists of six phases that have converted approximately 40% of the 336 apartments in the two towers into assisted living units. The work has been performed in accordance with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Assisted Living Conversion Process (ALCP). These ALCP units are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. At a cost of approximately $7 million, the first phase of the project renovated 40 apartments on six floors of the Tower One high‐rise and constructed a 6,000 square foot dining room, a covered drop‐off, a main entrance area, and one floor of resident services and administrative offices. The $2 million second phase renovated 20 apartments on two floors, the $4.2 million third phase converted 24 apartments on three floors, and the $5 million fourth phase renovated four studio apartments into three ALCP units on each of eight floors and added an exterior elevator. At a total cost of $2.3 million, the fifth phase of renovations consisted of 14 apartment conversions on Tower East, two each on seven floors, plus kitchen renovations that included a new walk‐in freezer and a walk‐in refrigerator. “We’re proud that the Tower One work was the first ALCP project in the entire country – for which we’ve received four separate HUD grants ‐ and we’re very appreciative that KBE has been with us from day one”, said Mark Garilli, President and CEO of Tower One/Tower East. “It’s no mean feat to complete renovations to an assisted living facility while it is occupied, but KBE has been efficient and very respectful of our residents at each stage of the process.” The next (6th) phase of construction for Tower One will begin in September 2013, and include six floors of renovations, with two ALCP conversions per floor, at a cost of $1.6 million.

The 2014 LeadingAge Connecticut EXPO will be on May 14, 2014 at The Aqua Turf Club.

Save the Date

Welcome New Business Affiliate Members!

LeadingAge Connecticut is pleased to welcome Business Affiliate Members that joined our membership this quarter.

First Niagara Healthcare Lending Group Provides Financing

to St. Joseph Living Center

First Niagara Financial Group announced it has issued a $5 million tax‐exempt bond to Saint Joseph Living Center . The bond allowed St. Joseph Living Center to refinance existing debt, thereby generating new working capital for interior refurbishment. The refinance was managed by First Niagara’s Healthcare Lending Group, which provides financing solutions tailored to the specific needs of the healthcare industry including hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, senior living communities, doctor’s offices, health centers and clinics, and outpatient care facilities. “Saint Joseph Living Center was looking for a lender that understood its needs and financial profile as a healthcare provider, and First Niagara welcomed the opportunity to work with them,” said Scott Frazer, Vice President of First Niagara’s Healthcare Lending Group. “We’re pleased to provide financing that will allow the staff at SJLC to upgrade the comfort and aesthetics of its center, providing an enhanced experience for its residents.” “First Niagara’s Healthcare Lending team has an in‐depth knowledge of our industry, including the attributes and challenges associated with our business, so no time was wasted bringing them up to speed,” said Lynn Iverson, Administrator, Saint Joseph Living Center. “We’re thrilled to have a banking partner that is plugged into the changing healthcare landscape in our region.” Since 2009, First Niagara’s Healthcare Lending Group has committed more than $1.3 billion across its foot‐print to healthcare industry organizations. The group provides traditional commercial, real estate, construction and acquisition financing for healthcare facilities in New England, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Delaware, Northern Maryland and Northern Virginia. “Four years ago, First Niagara recognized the potential for growth in the healthcare industry and assembled a team of talented, knowledgeable bankers, each with extensive experience in healthcare financing,” said First Niagara New England Regional President and Managing Director of Enterprise Banking, David Ring. “The growth of our healthcare lending portfolio shows us that hospitals, senior living centers and other facilities are actively seeking lenders that understand the healthcare space and can provide creative, customized financing options.”

2013 LeadingAge Connecticut Staff Directory

LeadingAge Connecticut 1340 Worthington Ridge

Berlin, CT 06037 860‐828‐2903

www.leadingagect.org

Mag Morelli President

[email protected] Extension 13

Beth Ricker Finance Manager


Andrea Bellofiore

Director of Member Programs & Services [email protected]

Extension 11

Nurka Carrero Office Manager


Value First ‐ Nick DeFrancesco [email protected]

Extension 16

1340 Worthington Ridge Berlin, CT 06037

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