Past News Articles
July 2004
Celebrating
40 Years of Life
What does “Celebrating 40 Years
of Life” mean to you? To the residents, staff, sisters and
friends of St. Anne Home is means that during its four decades of existence, St.
Anne Home has provided the love and care necessary for their residents to enjoy
their lives and live them out with pride. Over the last 40 years St. Anne Home
has taken each resident by the hand and treated him/her with love and respect as
they journey to their eternal home. The values of compassion, dignity and
respect for the whole person are experienced as the visible expression of the
presence of Christ. A holistic approach to caring is demonstrated as a ministry
where staff nurture the mind, body, and soul of every resident. With this
approach St. Anne Home has become an extended family to 40 years worth of
residents where they, their family members, and the staff have shared happiness
and sadness, arrival and departure in a very sensitive and caring way.
The spirit of Christ's healing
power is the heart of St. Anne Home. When the heart no longer
exists, or
is not present, the spirit cannot thrive. For 40 years the spirit has thrived
due to the loving hearts of our staff that give of themselves daily to ensure
the residents quality of life. However without their residents, St. Anne Home
would not exist. St. Anne Home’s 40th anniversary is also a
celebration of the thousands of residents who have called St. Anne Home “home”
over the last 40 years.
To celebrate 40 years of life
in the Greensburg community, St. Anne Home, in conjunction with UniScripts LTC,
has planned a “Concert in the Park” celebration on August 22, 2004. This day
will be filled with fun activities and music for all ages, beginning with a mass
at 3pm celebrated by Bishop Lawrence E. Brandt in the chapel. Immediately after
mass, refreshments will be served and the musical entertainment will commence.
Various groups are set to play on the campus outdoor stage from 4:30-7:00pm.
Please bring a blanket or lawn chairs for your comfort. The day will conclude
with a candlelight prayer service.
If you are interested in
attending or volunteering at the concert, please call St. Anne Home at
724-837-6070. Please bring along your family and friends for this
celebration. The residents of St. Anne Home feel they have so much to
celebrate and would love to see the campus grounds filled with those who feel
the same.
To learn more about the
celebration event, Click HERE
A Salute to the St. Anne
Home Nursing Staff
St. Anne Home proudly saluted its nurses during
National Nurses Week (May 3-8, 2004). A special treat for the RN/LPN staff was
a luncheon hosted by the certified nurses aides for each shift. During the
prescheduled time for the luncheon the administrative and secretarial staff
attended to the residents on the units so the nurse aides and the RN/LPN could
dine together. The nurse aides purchased gifts for each nurse to include travel
mugs, pins of appreciation, and a fun "Top Ten" list. The meals were entirely
planned by the nurse aides on each shift. The meal together could not have
taken place without the administrative staff’s support of attending to the
residents on each unit during the meal.
To
represent our caring and dedicated nursing staff, Nancy Kern has been chosen by
Becky Flack, Director of Nursing, as a nurse who has shown great advancement in
the profession of nursing.
Nancy graduated from Latrobe Hospital School of Nursing and has been a nurse for
34 years and in long term care for the last 25 years. She attended Carlow
College where she earned her BSN and will graduate in December 2004 with her
MSN. In addition to working part time at St. Anne Home as a relief supervisor,
Nancy is a part time clinical instructor at Westmoreland County Community
College and a substitute school nurse for Connellsville Area School District.
At St. Anne Home, Nancy serves on the Infection Control Committee, substitutes
in the RNAC office and also coordinates education classes.
Becky Flack explains what sets
Nancy apart from other nurses: “Nancy's strength is problem investigation and
problem solving. She utilizes her knowledge to investigate a problem from
management to the staff providing care at the bedside. Nancy then processes the
information until it reveals the break or the weakest link in the many steps it
takes to provide quality care. She also utilizes her educational skills to
in-service staff on new processes being implemented or changes in current
workflow that will enhance quality care. One of Nancy's strengths is providing
continuing education to the nursing staff covering a multitude of nursing
topics, which enhances the nursing care within the facility. Nancy’s
contribution to the nursing profession includes providing continuing education;
organizing complex processes/procedures in a step-by-step and easy to follow
fashion resulting in quality nursing care and resident comfort.”
THANK YOU to Nancy and all the nurses at St. Anne Home
who strive to make this house a home.
“Happy Days are Here
Again”
St. Anne Home celebrated National Nursing Home Week from
May 9-14, 2004 with the theme “Happy
Days are Here Again.” And what a happy week it was! Fun filled activities for
both residents and staff were carefully coordinated for the entire week.
Bishop Emeritus Anthony G. Bosco celebrated mass on
Monday, May 10 and attended a social with the residents and mayor of Greensburg,
Karl Eisamen, who made a proclamation for National Nursing Home Week. Our
residents spent Tuesday afternoon Rockin’ and Rollin’ as the staff performed to
different hit tunes from the YMCA to Don’t Worry, Be Happy. During this show,
resident Josie Bartosik was honored for living at St. Anne Home longer than any
other resident. Kathy Pastrick, LPN, was honored for her nearly 35 years of
faithful service. On Wednesday
a
picnic lunch was held for the residents, staff members, and construction workers
and roofers who are doing the renovation project. The State Police were also
invited to join the picnic. It was a nice opportunity to meet and eat lunch
with our neighbors.
Throughout the week residents were treated to their
favorite musical performers Kevin Solecki, Chuck McCurdy and Harry Franey. To
close out the fun filled week, a time capsule was buried. All departments as
well as residents were asked to contribute an item for the capsule. As St. Anne
Home celebrates it’s 40th anniversary this year, the time capsule is
a wonderful way to show those 25 years from now what was going on in 2004.
Everyone who participated in the celebration is to be
thanked for all their hard work. The entire week was enjoyable for the
residents, their families as well as the St. Anne Home staff and sisters.
Good Food,
Good Friends
We thought it could not get any better than last year’s
event, but we were wrong. Our guests once again
wined and dined in style as they progressed through various homes in what was
deemed another successful event for St. Anne Home. Nearly 70 guests attended
the second annual Progressive Dinner, which was held on May 1, 2004.
The Progressive Dinner included a four-course meal,
which was served in the homes of friends and family members of St. Anne Home.
The guests were assigned where they would partake in the different courses and
when one course was done, they were asked to “progress” to the next assigned
home. The travel time between homes allowed the guests to take a break before
the next course.
The guests raved about the menus that were carefully
prepared for the event. Each host is given full reign over what they wish to
prepare. Natale and Betty Carbone, Hugh and Ruey Dempsey, and Vince and Patty
Quatrini in their respective homes hosted Hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. These
menus included jumbo shrimp, specialty nuts, fylo dough stuffed with spinach,
and much more. Various cocktails were served to the guests as they mingled
during the first part of the event.
Soup and salad hosts included Peter and Marcia Balmert,
Joe and Bernie Biss, Pat Fenton, Sam and Diane Flannagan, Joe and Verene Harvey,
and The Benedictine Sisters of St. Emma’s. Some salads prepared by our hosts
included homemade chicken salad, anti pasta, fresh fruit plate, and strawberry
spinach salad with poppyseed dressing. The soups were served piping hot and
included potato, wedding, lobster bisque, and vegetable, just to name a few. Is
your mouth watering yet?
Hosts serving the entrée were Rev. Michael Begolly and
Natale and Melanie Pantalone, in their respective homes, Thomas and April
DeGregory at the Baggy Knee Café, and Ronald and Lauren Raimondo and Suzanne
Mahady at the Latrobe Country Club. These hosts out did themselves with
menus
that included filet mignon, chicken kabobs, salmon, and veal chops.
Dessert, which included cheesecake, fresh fruit,
homemade cupcakes, double chocolate fudge cake and many others, was served at
the Greensburg Country Club, hosted by George and Janet Desko and Jim and Joanne
Skatell.
The committee working on the
event included s. Bernice M. Fiedor, Administrator of St. Anne Home, Dawn
Waller, Director of Development and Public Relations at St. Anne Home, Bernie
Biss, chairperson, Lauren Raimondo, Karen Lynch, Betty Carbone, Jo Milie, and
Jean Conte. All proceeds from the Progressive Dinner benefit the residents of
Villa Angela at St. Anne Home and the St. Felix Care Fund.
Renovation
Progress
As reported in the last edition
of the AngeLines, St. Anne Home is undergoing a renovation project that
when completed will add an elevator, four new dining rooms, a new underground
rehabilitation suite and a new courtyard.
Now that spring has sprung the
construction crews are working even harder to get this renovation
project completed. Major milestones in the project have been reached recently.
The elevator shaft is completely built and is under roof. The framework for a
bridge to connect the elevator to the convent on the third floor is also
complete. The elevator car and controls have been ordered and are on their way.
The new dining rooms in Villa
Clare and Villa David have been closed in and have windows installed. The
rehabilitation suite has all its framing, rough-in plumbing, electrical, HVAC,
and drywall installed. The skylights are in place and have been bricked
exteriorly. Above the rehab. suite, the courtyard has been waterproofed and
backfilled. Landscaping will be done in the near future which will include a
pond with a waterfall.
There is still plenty of work
to be done but the residents and staff are being patient. The residents are
often seen watching over the workers. They pay close attention to what is being
done and are continually updated on the progress. The workers have even come
to know many of the residents by name and walk the halls with smiles and give a
friendly hello.
Donations toward the CAMPAIGN
FOR PROGRESS, the building fund, are now being accepted. Named gift
opportunities are available for items such as courtyard benches, window boxes,
various areas in the rehab. suite, and the dining rooms, just to name a few.
More information on donation options is available by contacting the St. Anne
Home Development Office at 724-837-6070.
To learn more about the
renovation project and the Campaign for
Progress, Click HERE
A Note from our
Administrator...
Dear Friends,
As most of you are aware,
2004 marks St. Anne Home’s 40th year of ministry in the Diocese of Greensburg.
Forty years! That does not seem like a long time in terms of years, especially
when we celebrate 100-year birthdays with our residents. But I do believe that
the numbers tell the true story, a more interesting and more realistic
story.
St. Anne Home’s 40th
anniversary means that 40 years of compassionate, quality care has been given to
approximately 2,608 residents. In order to continue the healing mission of
Jesus Christ, 35 Felician Sisters and 7 Sisters of other communities committed
themselves to the ministry of St. Anne Home. A total of 5 chaplains have been
present around the clock to visit, anoint, and pray with the residents on the
daily basis. Over the years the Home has been blessed with 3,005 employees who
were and are willing to care for and assist the residents throughout the years.
Now, that number does not include the many outside contracted services such as
pharmacy, rehabilitation staff, dietary service, lab technicians, x-ray
technicians and numerous other vendors. There is no way that we can even begin
to count the number of dedicated and loving people that have passed through the
doors of St. Anne Home. But the largest number that I could identify was the
cost that has spanned these 40 years. To date St. Anne Home’s total expenses
have reached the astounding amount of $115,855,966.
We have much to celebrate,
much for which we must be proud and grateful. We are planning a grand finale to
celebrate this joyous occasion (details of the event are enclosed). As we
sing in one of the hymns during Mass: “All are welcome, all are welcome, all
are welcome to this place.
Thank you and God bless
you!
s. Bernice M. Fiedor, CSSF,
NHA
March 2004
Building
for Our Future
St. Anne Home is dedicated to serving the
growing needs of older adults. The commitment of the
St. Anne Home to respond to these changing needs began with the addition of
Villa Angela, which broadens our scope and continuum of care. However, as the
age population trends indicate, there are several urgent needs that remain.
A long awaited
renovation project began in December 2003 after a blessing ceremony conducted by
Father Anthony Wozniak, chaplain. Construction crews estimate the entire
project will be complete by fall 2004. The staff at St. Anne Home is excited
about seeing the end results. Every part of the renovation will offer countless
benefits to the residents when completed.
To accomplish the highest level of resident
independence, St. Anne Home offers a comprehensive rehabilitation program,
including speech, occupational, and physical therapies. Included in the
renovation project is a new Rehabilitation Suite that is more than three times
the size of the existing room. It will also include a private treatment room, a
speech therapy room, a large area for therapy equipment, a kitchen and a
restroom. The new Rehabilitation Suite will allow us to expand and improve the
therapy services provided on campus.
This new
rehabilitation area will be located under the courtyard between Villas Benjamin
and Clare. In January, a bobcat and mini excavator were hoisted into the
courtyard by a large crane. Three-fourths of the ground in the courtyard will
be excavated to make room for the new rehabilitation suite. After the new room
is built, a new courtyard will be placed over the rehabilitation area. This
courtyard will contain skylights, a grass-covered area, benches, tables with
umbrellas, and flower filled window boxes.
Many Nursing Center residents need extensive
care and help with all daily activities, particularly eating meals. Because
more residents are unable to have their meals in the main dining room due to a
lack of space for one-on-one help, St. Anne Home will provide more intimate
dining spaces on the units where staff can offer extra help. The renovation
plan includes four new dining and activity spaces that will accomplish this
goal.
The renovations also include an additional
elevator that will facilitate resident and staff travel between the two levels
of the Nursing Center. This elevator will also provide the Felician Sisters
needed assistance in traveling to their convent on the third floor. A fire
protection sprinkler system will be installed in the renovated and adjacent
areas. Lastly, a new and stronger emergency generator will be added.
St. Anne Home has a distinguished history of
providing compassionate care and service for older
adults and their families. The campus has served thousands of residents from
all walks of life, and residents, family members, and other health care
facilities speak highly of St. Anne Home. The Nursing Center Renovations will
expand and enhance the unique and unparalleled care provided on the St. Anne
Home campus.
To improve the quality of life and care and
to anticipate future needs, St. Anne Home has initiated these projects. Funds
for the project will include a combination of financing, reserves, and public
support. If you are interested in making a monetary gift to the CAMPAIGN FOR
PROGRESS, please contact the Development Office at 724-837-6070 or mail your
gift to St. Anne Home, 685 Angela Drive, Greensburg, PA 15601.
To learn more about the renovation project and the
Campaign for Progress, Click
HERE
“Celebrating 40 Years of Life”
As the
world rang in the New Year, St. Anne Home welcomed the beginning of a yearlong
celebration of life. 2004 marks the 40th Anniversary of the loving
and compassionate tradition of St. Anne Home.
Throughout
this joyous year St. Anne Home will be celebrating in many ways. The most
exciting celebration will come on August 22nd with a “Concert in the
Park.” This event is scheduled to kick off at 3pm with a mass in the chapel
followed by several bands and musical groups performing on the St. Anne Home
campus. Refreshments and other entertainment will also be a part of the
celebration. More information on the event will be available as the time
nears. This event will be free and open to the public. – Mark your
calendars!
To learn more about the 40th
Celebration, Click HERE
Pharmaceutical Assistance Tips
PACE and PACENET are funded by
the Pennsylvania Lottery and administered by the Pennsylvania Department of
Aging. These programs offer comprehensive prescription coverage to older
Pennsylvanians and cover most medications that require prescriptions, including
insulin, syringes and insulin needles. These programs do not cover
over-the-counter medicines, medical equipment or doctor, hospital, dental or
vision services. There are no premiums or monthly fees charged to people who
enroll in these programs.
PACE
As of January 1, 2004 to be
eligible for PACE, you must be 65 years of age or older, a Pennsylvania resident
for at least 90 days prior to the date of application, and you cannot be
enrolled in the Department of Public Welfare’s Medicaid prescription benefit.
Eligibility is also determined by your previous calendar year’s income, but
you can apply with your 2002 income through March 31, 2004. For a
single person, your total income must be $14,500 or less. For a married couple,
your combined total income must be $17,700 or less. Once you are enrolled in
the PACE program, a benefit card will be sent to you, and you will pay a $6
co-payment for each generic prescription medication and a $9 co-payment for each
brand name prescription at your pharmacy.
PACENET
As of January 1, 2004 to be
eligible for PACENET, the age, residency and Medicaid requirements are the same
as with PACE. However, the income limits are higher. Again, the income is
based on the previous calendar year’s income, but 2002 income can be
used through March 31, 2004. A single person’s total income can be
between $14,500 and $23,500. A couple's combined total income can be between
$17,700 and $31,500. Once you are enrolled in the PACENET program, a benefit
card will be sent to you, and you must meet a $40 monthly deductible.
The deductible is cumulative if it is not met each month.
Once you meet the $40 deductible each month, you will pay an $8 co-payment for
each generic prescription medication and a $15 co-payment for each brand name
prescription medication. Prescriptions purchased prior to your enrollment in
PACENET cannot be applied toward your deductible.
PACE and PACENET ENROLLMENT
Enrollment is easy! Just fill
out the application form and submit it with proof of age, residency and income.
The same simple application form is used for both PACE and PACENET. An
application can be obtained online at the following link:
http://www.fhsc.com/pennsylvania/paceenrollement, or by calling toll free
1-800-225-7223.
Source: Pennsylvania Department
of Aging Website
http://www.aging.state.pa.us/aging/cwp/view.asp?A=293&Q=173876
New Rule on Protected Resources for Medicaid
Applicants/Recipients
Medical Assistance, or Medicaid, is a program of
financial assistance funded by the federal and state governments to help pay for
medical care, including care in a nursing facility. Medicaid payment for long
term care is available for people who do not have enough income and resources to
pay for their care. This benefit is based on a person’s income and assets they
have available. To qualify, a person must meet the financial resource limit as
well as require nursing care services.
Currently, a person’s countable resources must be down
to $2,400.00 before being eligible for Medicaid. Countable resources include
cash, bank accounts, stocks and bonds, mutual funds, all vehicles except one,
non-resident real property, IRA or Keogh fund, and some of the cash value of
certain life insurance.
The Department of Public Welfare has issued a new rule
effective 10/31/2003. This rule states the following:
-If an applicant’s total
monthly income in the year 2004 is under $1,692.00, then the Department of
Public Welfare will disregard $6,000.00; and their countable resource limit will
be $2,000.00.
-If an applicant’s total
monthly income in the year 2004 is over $1,692.00, their countable resource
limit will remain $2,400.00.
Any questions regarding this new rule can be directed to
your local County Assistance Office or the Welfare Helpline at 1-800-692-7462.
Pride in our Food Service Workers
Food
service workers serve nutritious meals and snacks to individuals in nursing
homes, hospitals, retirement centers, schools, correctional facilities and
military services. Here at St. Anne Home, our employees receive training in
food safety and sanitation and in food service preparation. Each day, our
residents, staff, friends and family appreciate our food service workers for
their dedication to purchasing, preparing and serving safe and appropriate food
according to physician orders.
Pride in Food Service Week was established by the
Dietary Managers Association (DMA) to recognize the efforts and achievements of
food service workers. Pride in Food Service Week was celebrated nationwide
February 2-6, 2004.
As our population grows older, the food service
department’s role as part of the long-term care team is becoming more and more
vital. Food service professionals can mean the difference between a person
eating nourishing and safe food or simply taking the chance with the food they
consume. The DMA and St. Anne Home recognizes our front-line food service
professionals for their excellent work ethic and diligent dedication.
December 2003
In the
Company of Angels
When the guests
entered the beautiful ballroom of the Greensburg Country Club on November 1st,
it
truly felt as if angels were present. The theme of the seventh annual “A
Harvest of Blessings” Dinner and Auction was centered on the angel quilt
assembled by the sisters and staff of St. Anne Home. This event is St. Anne
Home’s largest fundraising event of the year, which benefits the residents in so
many ways.
As the guests entered
the room they were greeted with the sounds of beautiful dinner music played by
Brandon Shutty on a keyboard. The guests were encouraged to browse and bid on
over 60 Silent Auction baskets, which were filled with donated items from
businesses around the community and the Pittsburgh area. Some crowd favorites
included Steelers tickets, a Franco Harris autographed football, Spa Packages,
Longaberger baskets, Golf Packages, Wine Baskets, and a two day get away to
Nemacolin Woodlands Resort and Spa, just to name a few. Other chances for
prizes included a Chinese Auction, a 50/50 drawing, a 10 to 1 chance to win cash
and two raffle prizes. Those who took home spectacular raffle prizes were Anne
Morgenstern who won the framed embroidered angel done by Sister M. Pulcheria
Saukaitis and Pat Mistick who won the $500 worth of PA Instant Lottery Tickets,
graciously donated by Disco Products.
The guests enjoyed a delicious sit-down dinner of Filet Mignon and Crab cakes
atop round tables decorated with blue and silver centerpieces. Sue and Pat
Thomas of Joseph Thomas Flower Shop created the centerpieces out of hurricane
lamps, silver candles, blue and silver stars and fresh greenery. The Thomas’
also donated two large urns filled with dozens of long stemmed roses, which were
later given to the women who attended the event. For dessert, the tables were
topped off with a large plate of homemade cookies, consisting of over 17
varieties of pastries and baked goods, which were prepared by a team of talented
volunteers. Guests were also invited to take home the angel favors placed at
each seat which were made from upside down roses. The talented hands of Jessica
Kurnocik, Sr. Jessy, Sr. Rose and s. Bernice M. Fiedor made these crafty
angels.
This year’s event was
co-chaired by Kathy Kerestes and Dawn Waller, Director of Development and Public
Relations at St. Anne Home. The auction committee included: Anne Aungier, s.
Bernice M. Fiedor, Phyllis Kluska, Jo Milie, Mindy Shaw, Joanne Skatell, Sandy
Tangretti, Sue Thomas, Loretta Ulakovic, Bob and Diana Yuhas and Jason Yuhas.
This team of volunteers is not only dedicated to the success of the auction but
also to the mission of St. Anne Home.
A special guest was
among the crowd of nearly 200 who gathered to support the mission of St. Anne
Home. Lei Hennessy and her husband David Owen came to the auction to make a
very special presentation. Lei is the Seattle Washington artist who created
“Freedom’s Angels”, three sculptures in memory of the September 11th
attacks. She donated one of her replica angels to St. Anne Home to use at the
auction. Lei’s beautiful 5-foot creation was put on the Live Auction block and
brought in $1600 from Mr. & Mrs. Bob Mistick, who graciously donated the angel
back to St. Anne Home. The angel is currently being displayed in the front
lobby of the facility until a permanent outdoor location can be established.
Lei and David also presented another angel to a very special friend of St. Anne
Home – Read more about Lei and her angels further on in this edition of the
AngeLines.
The
highlight of evening came when it was time to auction off the “Angels Among Us”
quilt. This quilt was an original design by Karen Phillips-Schwallon, who was
present to see her quilt raise funds for St. Anne Home. Also present were all
the individuals who dedicated time into embroidering the five unique angels
including, s. Bernice M. Fiedor, Administrator of St. Anne Home, Sister M.
Innocent Karpel, Sister M. Evelyn Labik, Sister M. Pulcheria Saukaitis, Rebecca
Flack and Kate Hepler. Starting the bidding at $1000, auctioneer Mark Ferry,
was able to work up the bidding to $5100 and sold the one of a kind quilt to
Karen Mickus, who is also the proud owner of the 2001 “Nicks In Time” quilt.
Karen explained that she has two daughters and plans on using the quilts as
wedding gifts for them one day.
Thank you to
the corporate sponsors who once again came through with generous donations and
spirited participation in the event. This year, the list included Platinum
Sponsor: Yanni and Company Investment Advisors, Inc., Gold Sponsors: First
Commonwealth Bank and Parente Randolph, Silver Sponsors: Mistick Construction
and Buchanan Ingersoll, and Bronze Sponsors: McKesson Medical, Perkins Eastman
Architects, PC, Smail Automotive, Mr. & Mrs. William Thompson and UniScripts,
LTC.
s. Bernice M. Fiedor and the auction committee wish to extend their sincere
gratitude to all of our “angels” who played a role in this year’s dinner and
auction. Whether you donated items, baked cookies, helped to wrap baskets, were
a corporate sponsor or attended the dinner, your participation helped to enhance
the successful outcome of the event. THANK YOU!!
High Atop St.
Anne Home
Visitors and residents of St. Anne Home
may have noticed some activity on the roof of Villa David over the past month.
St. Anne Home is in the process of having a new roof installed. The existing
EPDM (rubber) roof was installed in 1986 over top of the original built up roof
that was installed in 1964. It has served the Home well for the past 17 years
but now it is time to remove both of them and install a new roof.
In September of 2002, the home
contracted Advanced Technical Systems, Inc. of Evans City to conduct an infrared
roof inspection. The purpose of the scan was in identify areas of the roof that
had moisture trapped under the water barrier membrane. The scanning process
covered the 62,280 square feet of roofing over the nursing center. The results
of the infrared scan revealed that there was moisture trapped under the rubber
membrane in 25 areas covering a total area of 8,647 square feet. This square
footage constituted 13.88% of the roof and alerted us that it was time to
re-roof before serious problems
started to occur.
It was decided to install a three-ply
hybrid modified/built-up system designed by the Garland Company Inc. 23
additional roof drains were designed into the system.
The project was put out to bid to three
roofing contractors and Tuscano-Maher Roofing, Inc. of Saltsburg was the
successful bidder. They started the project in early November, however being
that it is so close to winter, the whole project is not expected to be completed
until late spring 2004. Due to the enormity of this project, St. Anne Home is
accepting donations to help defray the cost of the new roof.
Pictured are workers of Tuscano-Maher
Roofing installing new roofing over Villa David. We are sure that the new roof
will provide security from the weather for residents, visitors, and staff for
many years to come.
Angels Do Exist
Lei
Hennesey and her husband David Owen were present for the Seventh Annual “A
Harvest of Blessings” dinner and auction. The reason for her visit was due to a
relationship she formed with a 14-year old cancer patient. Lei recently
attended a welcome home parade for a serviceman in Blairsville, but while there
she was determined to find a young lady named Jessica Kurnocik, who has been
battling a rare form of synovial cell carcinoma for the past two and a half
years. Lei wanted to give Jessica an angel pin, which is a replica for her now
infamous angel memorials. During their initial encounter, Jessica and her
mother Tracey, who is an administrative secretary at St. Anne Home, related to
the artist how wonderful St. Anne Home and its employees have been to them
during Jessica’s difficult treatments. Lei was so moved by the story, that she
decided to create a five-foot replica of the Freedom Angel for the annual dinner
and auction as a thank you for all that St. Anne Home has done for the Kurnocik
family.
Just prior to the start of the Live Auction, Kathy
Kerestes, Mistress of Ceremonies, called Lei and David up to the podium so they
could tell their story. Lei explained to the guests that following the attacks
on September 11, 2001, the International Association of Firefighters contacted
her and asked for a sculpture commemorating that horrific day. After some
thought, she chose the angel design.
Lei went on to say that the angels are made of donated
steel and have been installed at the site of the World Trade Center, the
Pentagon, and along Skyline Drive, just outside Shanksville in Somerset County,
the site where 44 people aboard Flight 93 were killed after being high jacked by
the terrorists. The angel at the World Trade Center disaster site stands 30
feet tall and weighs approximately 5,000 pounds. The Shanksville angel stands
20 feet tall.
Lei then called on Jessica Kurnocik to come up to the
front of the room because she had a special gift for her. She and David wanted
to give Jessica a replica of the angel. Without a dry eye in the ballroom,
Jessica and Tracey gave a heartfelt thank you to not only Lei and David, but to
everyone who has supported them and St. Anne Home over the years.
St. Anne Home would like to thank Lei for her generosity and for attending our
annual event. Thanks to Lei and Mr. & Mrs. Bob Mistick, who purchased the angel
in the live auction and generously donated it back to St. Anne Home, our home
will forever have a reminder of those who gave their lives so that others could
live.
St. Anne Home Employees are
Appreciated
St. Anne Home
held the annual Employee Appreciation Day and Awards Ceremony on October
23, 2003. The day was filled with excitement as employees were treated with a
fabulous dinner provided by Dietary Services. Throughout the day, prizes were
given out to employees whose names were pulled out in a random drawing. In the
afternoon, the Awards Ceremony was held in the chapel, which was lead by Bishop
Anthony Bosco. All staff members were asked to stand and rededicate themselves
to serving the residents with love and fulfilling the mission of St. Anne Home.
The
following employees were honored with anniversary pins for reaching milestones
in their careers at St. Anne Home: 5 years – Lori Appel, Dave Champion, Angela
Forish, Romayne Kowalsky, Chris Piper, Debbie Potts, Cheryl Shipley, Tracy
Thomas, Marlene Tiberio, and Janey Toomey. 10 years – Tammy Irgang and Carl
Munk. 15 years – John Alwine. 20 years – Annie Bickel, Terry Dreier, Virginia
Hall, Bill Morrison, and Diana True. 25 years – Ruth Dowds.
s. Bernice
M. Fiedor had the pleasure of presenting the 2003 Distinguished Service Award to
Thelma Jean Ward. Before accepting her current position as a Physical Therapy
Aide, Jean was a LPN and a CNA. Jean’s supervisor will tell you she is a
resident advocate, maintains a high achievement level and handles difficult
situations with ease. It’s obvious why Jean was chosen for this award.
Congratulations Jean and to all the St. Anne Home employees on jobs well done.
Keep up the terrific work. It is appreciated!
September 2003
Angels Among Us
They are at it again. The Felician
Sisters and staff members of St. Anne Home have once again put
together a unique work of art. To accompany the angel theme for the 2003 “A
Harvest of Blessings” auction and social, an angel quilt is being
assembled. The quilt is entitled “Angels Among Us” and includes one large
embroidered angel as well as four smaller angels, ribbons, bows, doves and a
beautiful boarder, all done in shades of silver and blue.
This impressive creation is the third
quilt put together by the talented group at St. Anne Home. “Nicks of Time”
(2001) and the Snowman Quilt (2002) were both appliqué quilts and raised $4300
and $5000 respectively for St. Anne Home. “Angels Among Us” is unique because
there is no appliqué on the quilt. The entire quilt was finished with
embroidery and beadwork. Techniques included on this one of a kind quilt are
bouillon roses, French knots, backstitch, fern-fly and seed stitch, just to name
a few.
The
quilt is currently being hand quilted by a group of Amish women. This tedious
process will take approximately two to three months to complete. When the quilt
is returned to St. Anne Home, it will be displayed in the front lobby until the
auction on November 1, 2003. This will be the main item on the live auction
block for the evening. All profits from the annual dinner support the St. Anne
Home mission of providing superior care and support for its residents, families
and their caregivers.
Those women who have been diligently
stitching this year's work of art include Sister Bernice M. Fiedor,
Administrator of St. Anne Home, along with Sister M. Innocent Karpel, Sister M.
Evelyn Labik, Sister
M. Pulcheria Saukaitis, Kate Hepler, and Rebecca Flack. The quilt was made
through Kate & Becca’s Quilt Patch, Scottdale, PA. The designer of “Angels
Among Us” is Karen Phillips-Schwallon who designed the angels using three
dimensional embroidery techniques. Karen is also the owner of the Quilted Heart
and a published author.
In addition to the quilt, a single
embroidered angel wall hanging, handmade by Sr. M. Pulcheria Saukaitis, is sure
to be a big hit at the auction. This angel is done in pink and taupe hues,
accented with beads and is displayed in a ornate 26’x33’ frame with a taupe
matting. This handmade work of art will be raffled off the evening of the
auction. The angel is currently hanging in the front lobby and tickets can be
purchased at the front desk. They are 1 for $5 or 3 for $10.
For more information on the angel quilt,
wall hanging or the auction, please contact the Development Office at St. Anne
Home by calling 724-837-6070.
Quilt Show Results
The 2002
Snowman Quilt was recently entered in a quilt show at the West Overton Museums
and won second place in the Collaborative Category. Kathy Merlino, who
purchased the quilt at the 2002 “A Harvest of Blessings”
auction, donated the $100 cash prize to St. Anne Home. This money was used to
help defray the cost of producing this year’s quilt, “Angels Among Us.”
“Celebrating Life at St. Anne Home”
…was the theme
of the Open House commemorating the Feast of St. Anne and kicking off our
celebration of 40 years of ministry. Held on July 27, 2003, the St. Anne Home
staff presented demonstrations of each department’s role in our home.
As our guest walked through the door
they were greeted by staff members and given a program of all the events and
sessions they could attend. The front lobby was full of captivating pictures of
the residents, newspaper articles featuring the groundbreaking and dedication of
St. Anne Home in 1964, pictures of our staff and fundraising events. Here is a
sampling of the programs presented throughout the day.
Scott
Appel, Director of Dining Services, presented a modified food textures
presentation and started his session asking this question, “What is the first
thing you eat with?” Most said utensils or their fingers, but actually the
answer is your eyes. Depending on how appealing the food “looks” will either
invite or discourage meal consumption. In long-term care, this is very
important. Because of dementia, some residents may not know exactly what foods
are being served, but quite often, when the plate presentation is neat,
colorful, and coordinated, there is little hesitation for these residents to
taste the foods.
During the open house, Scott
demonstrated an impressive plate presentation of pureed foods. He showed a plate
that was made up of a 3 scoops of pureed food, chicken, cauliflower, and whipped
potatoes. Being that all the foods were white in color and all the same round
shape, the meal looked dull and unappetizing. Next, Scott prepared a molded
pureed chicken breast topped with homemade barbeque sauce, next to a pureed pea
& carrot soufflé, and piped au-gratin potatoes from a pastry bag on the side….
and suddenly the foods looked “alive”. A variety of colors and shapes now were
displayed atop a round white canvas (plate). Many guests even sampled the foods
because they where so “appetEYEzing”.
Villa Angela at St. Anne Home opened all
three floors to visitors during the open house. Each of the
floors highlighted different aspects of life at Villa Angela. The garden level
invited the visitors to participate in “sitersize,” an exercise program done by
the residents on a regular basis. Another point of interest on the garden level
is the shrine dedicated to Our Lady of Czestochowa. The courtyard level hosted
a gathering in the living room area that included pictures of previous events as
well as goodies prepared by the residents. Finally on the terrace level, five
residents opened their rooms for tours so the guests could see the different
room setups and how they decorated their living space.
The Activities Staff hosted a Hawaiian
theme, with aquatic and floral decorations adorning the Activities Room. The
residents took part in a Drum Circle presentation that lasted a half hour and
our guests were able to join in. The staff served strawberry and banana
smoothies and pictures of residents participating in past activities were
displayed.
Other sessions included tours of the
facility and campus grounds, a children’s play area, bible stories in the
chapel, preventing falls in the home presentation, resident’s rights Bingo and a
financial overview. The Felician Sisters gave a tour of their home in the
convent. While upstairs, guests were taken into the choir loft and given a
bird’s eye view of the chapel.
Thank you to all who attended our Open
House and celebrated the feast of St. Anne with us. With your continued
support, St. Anne Home can move into its 40th year with great
confidence and will continue to be a thriving member of the Greensburg
community.
Give the “Gift of Life”
Thank you to all who participated in the two blood
drives St. Anne Home sponsored this year. The turnout for our drive in May was
very impressive; 38 productive units of blood were collected.
Special treats awaited those giving blood at our second
drive in August. St. Anne Home sponsored the “Grateful Life Tour” where each
presenting donor received a free “groovy” tie-dyed t-shirt. After the donor
completed giving blood, hot pizza compliments of Pizza Siena, awaited them. 30
productive units of blood were collected during this blood drive.
For every unit of blood that is collected, three lives
are potentially saved. This means, because of your assistance, we were able to
help approximately 204 people by giving the “Gift of Life!” Remember to sign up
when you see signs for our next blood drive!
Congratulations Sr. M. Innocent
On August 20, 2003, Sr. M. Innocent Karpel was honored
at a banquet in Michigan where she received
the Peacemaker/Reconciler Award from the Franciscan Federation. Sr. M. Innocent
was nominated for this award by a colleague who felt that her selfless work over
the years was deserving of an award such as this. This honor is given to the
unsung hero (heroine), the one person who knows what to say at just the right
time, the one who lifts spirits and diffuses tensions. If you have ever met Sr.
M. Innocent you know that she is that one person who does all of the above and
more. She makes a difference! Congratulations Sr. M. Innocent on your award.
We are proud to have you as part of our St. Anne Home family.
Spa Time
Just like you or I, our residents love to be given the
royal treatment. A new favorite activity does just that. We call it “Spa
Time.” During these sessions, the residents are able to relax while they are
given hand and neck massages with fragrant lotions. The staff explains to them
all about the soothing ingredients that make them feel and smell so good. They
are also given fresh fruit and cool drinks to refresh their taste buds. Our
residents truly enjoy their time at the “Spa” and would like to have this
activity more often.
The products used during “Spa Time” get to be costly,
however our residents enjoy this activity therefore we are asking for your help
to keep it going. Currently we are seeking donations of unused scented lotions,
sprays, scrubs, hand held massagers or any other product that could be used
during “Spa Time.” Relaxation music and water gardens would also enhance their
experience. If you are able to supply us with any of the items listed above,
simply drop off your donation at the front desk. We appreciate any help you are
able to provide.
A Note from our
Administrator...
Dear Friends,
On July 26 we celebrate the feast of Sts. Anne and
Joachim, the parents of Mary and the grandparents of Jesus. On July 27, in
honor of this feast and as a stepping-stone into the St. Anne Home’s 40th
anniversary celebration, we held an Open House.
Many demonstrations were presented by the
Department Directors to illustrate what happens in a resident’s day at St. Anne
Home. It was in effect a “show and tell” in which visitors were able to
participate. The highlight of the visit, I am sure, were the refreshments.
I would like to thank all the visitors who took
time to Celebrate Like at St. Anne Home with us. It was a joy to be with folks
that have had family members here in the past. We are now looking forward to a
grand celebration of the 40 years of ministry that continue to happen at St.
Anne Home. Join us during the year to thank God for the many blessings he has
showered upon us during these 40 years.
God bless you,
s. Bernice M. Fiedor, CSSF, NHA
Administrator
June 2003
A
Culinary Success!
It was a night filled with wonder and awe as the guests
of St. Anne Home’s newest fundraising
event entered the homes of our generous hosts for what was going to be one of the
finest meals they ever ate. The Progressive Dinner, held on May 3, 2003, proved
to exceed the expectations of all our guests who enjoyed meeting new people and
being served exquisite cuisine.
The Progressive Dinner included a four-course meal,
which was served in the homes of friends and family members of St. Anne Home
from around the local communities. The guests were assigned where they would
partake in the different courses and when one course was done, they were asked
to “progress” to the next assigned home. The travel time between homes allowed
the guests to take a break before the next course.
Hors d'oeuvres and cocktails were hosted by Hugh and
Ruey Dempsey and Carol Atkinson, in their respective homes and Ron and Lauren
Raimondo at the Latrobe Country Club. Soup and salad hosts included Ernie and
Carol Vallozzi, John and Joanne Hudock, and Pat Fenton, in their respective
homes, The Benedictine Sisters of St. Emma’s Monastery in their Retreat House
and Suzanne Mahady, at the Latrobe Country Club. Hosts serving the entrée were
George and Janet Desko and Joe and Verene Harvey, in their respective homes and
Dr. Thomas and April DeGregory at the Greensburg Country Club. Dessert and
coffee was served at Villa Angela and hosted by the residents, staff and family
members of Villa Angela at St. Anne Home.
In addition
to the dinner, a raffle was held at the end of the evening featuring a $100 gift
certificate donated by Rizzo’s Malabar Inn and Italian Restaurant, won by
Michele Bononi and a $500 cash prize sponsored by Union Prescription, won by
Father Edward McCullough.
The committee working on the event included s. Bernice
M. Fiedor, Administrator of St. Anne Home, Dawn Waller, Director of Development
and Public Relations at St. Anne Home, Bernie Biss, chairperson, Lauren Raimondo,
Karen Lynch, Betty Carbone, and Jean Conte. The committee agreed that due to
the success of this event, it will become an annual affair for St. Anne Home.
All proceeds for this event benefited the residents of Villa Angela at St. Anne
Home and the St. Felix Care Fund.
What are Villa Angela and the St. Felix Care Fund?
Villa Angela at St. Anne
Home provides assisted living in a caring, residential setting. This
44-apartment community offers a wide variety of services, including health
assessment, medication management, and assistance with daily routines, such as
cooking, laundry, and cleaning.
Currently there are no
federal or state funding mechanisms to help older citizens meet the cost of
assisted living. St. Anne Home realizes that some residents who live at Villa
Angela may eventually deplete their resources. If a resident does spend down
his or her assets, Villa Angela can present several alternatives, including
changing apartments, living with a roommate, or obtaining a financial sponsor.
St. Anne Home has also instituted the St. Felix Care Fund to help residents of
Villa Angela maintain their apartments and services. The purpose of the St.
Felix Care Fund is to assist the residents with the greatest need who do not
have other options for help available to them.
If you are interested in receiving more information
about the St. Felix Care Fund or you would like to make a donation to the fund,
please contact St. Anne Home at 724-837-6070.
Around
St. Anne Home in Five Days…
was the
theme of this year’s observance of National Nursing Home week at St. Anne Home.
The week long salute, which took place May 12th – 16th,
was kicked off by Karl Eisaman, the Mayor of Greensburg, declaring the beginning
of the celebration. Each day of the week celebrated a different country and
it’s ethnicities. The themes were carried out by serving the residents ethnic
food, hosting an afternoon activity that pertained to the country and staff and
residents were asked to dress in the country’s national colors. The countries
that were featured included Italy, India, Poland, England, and of course, The
United States of America. Some of the afternoon activities included Music with
Joe Marotta,
who sang many Italian selections; International Rhythm Band, where the residents
had a chance to play many different instruments; and Afternoon Tea, served with
scones and berries. The week was brought to a close with the Most Reverend
Bishop Anthony Bosco presiding over mass on Friday morning. After mass, the
Bishop took time to share in donuts and coffee with the residents. The
residents enjoyed this week long tour of the world without having to leave the
comforts of home.
Say hello to HIPAA!
We want to take this opportunity to introduce you to the
new HIPAA privacy rules. By now, you have probably heard this word at least a
dozen times, at your doctor, your dentist, the hospital and of course your
nursing and personal care facility. But what is HIPAA? HIPAA is an acronym
that stands for Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996.
The new HIPAA privacy regulations have arrived and
became effective on April 14, 2003 for most every health care provider.
The coming together of three major factors has resulted
in Congress passing the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of
1996. The first factor is the demand for privacy and confidentiality in
individual patient medical records. The second is the rapid increase in the
transmission of electronic data containing individually identifiable information
relating to medical records and treatment. The third factor is the need to
standardize the 400+ formats currently utilized for the electronic submission of
health claims in the United States, with the recognition that the lack of
standardization is expensive and makes it difficult to develop and maintain
software, and also minimizes the ability of health care providers and health
insurance plans to achieve efficiency and savings. Contained within these HIPAA
regulations are the privacy rules, which focus in the confidentiality of
resident health information.
By now all residents of St. Anne Home’s nursing facility
and personal care facility, Villa Angela, should have received our Notice of
Privacy Practices. This notice is used to provide the following information:
-
it describes how we may use and disclose resident
personal health information at St. Anne Home,
-
it describes your rights regarding your personal
health information in a long term care setting, and
-
it describes where you may file a compliant if you
believe your privacy rights have been violated.
A common misunderstanding with these new privacy rules
is that long-term care facilities are not allowed to share your personal health
information with a family member, close friend, including clergy, who is
involved in your care. St. Anne Home may disclose this personal health
information to these people as long as the resident or responsible person does
not object. Clergy involvement in the spiritual care provided at St. Anne Home
is vitally important and strongly encouraged. Our mission at St. Anne Home is
to continue the healing mission of Jesus Christ and families, friends and clergy
play an important role in implementing our mission. Thank you for your
continued support of this mission.
We are all a little Irish on
St. Patty’s Day!
What comes to mind when you think of green beer, green
bread, or even green mashed potatoes? 
Probably St. Patrick’s Day…of course. Scott Appel, Director of Dining Services,
decided to get away from the every day fan-fare and treat the lasses and lads of
St. Anne Home to a more original collection of traditional Irish recipes this
year. Warm cabbage salad with bacon dressing started the St. Patty’s Day meal.
The entrée was a beef and Guinness stew (yes, our chef actually put in a few
pints of Guinness ale in the stock)! The stew was served with two freshly
grated Parsnip Pancakes. Topping off this Irish dinner were individual Irish
muffins served with pistachio pudding. By the resident’s responses, it seemed
that the change of tradition was digested quite well.
Legend of Saint
Patrick
Good St. Patrick
traveled far, to teach God's Holy Word
And when he came to Erin's sod, a wondrous thing occurred
He plucked a shamrock from the earth and held it in His hand
To symbolize the Trinity that all might understand
The first leaf for the Father, And the second for the Son
The third leaf for the Holy Spirit, All three of them in one.
The
power of a gift to St. Anne Home
Have you ever said, “What would I do without St. Anne Home?” or “Where would
mom/dad be today if St. Anne Home didn’t exist?”
A great way to ensure
that St. Anne Home will be around for many years to come is to make a commitment
of a planned gift. A planned gift now will not only allow you to help St. Anne
Home after you are gone but also enable you to shelter your taxes. The best
thing about planning a gift now is that you know exactly where your money is
going and that you have left a legacy that will live on forever at St. Anne
Home.
A
very important part of your estate plan is your will. With a well-written will,
you can pass more of your assets to the people or organizations you choose and
fewer of your assets to the government. One of the ways in which you can do
this is through a charitable gift. Because charitable gifts qualify for an
unlimited estate tax deduction, you are able to give more than you thought
possible without taking away from the people you love. The following are all
ways in which you can contribute to the future of St. Anne Home: Life Insurance
Policy, Charitable Gift Annuity, Charitable Remainder Trust, Charitable Lead
Trust, IRA’s, 401K’s, Gifts of Real Estate, Stocks, Bonds and Mutual Gifts, and
Bequests
No
matter which avenue you choose, a charitable bequest to St. Anne Home allows us
to continue our work in the community and stay
devoted to the mission of providing a
continuum of care and supportive services for older adults, their families, and
their caregivers.
If you wish, The Development Office at St. Anne Home can provide you with a list
of professionals who can help you with this important decision. If you have any
questions regarding giving to St. Anne Home, planned or immediate, please
contact the Development Office at St. Anne Home.
“We brought
nothing into this world…we can take nothing out of it.”
– I Timothy 6:7
Welcome to 685 ANGELA DRIVE!
St. Anne Home recently received an official ANGELA DRIVE
street sign. John Morgenstern, shown with the new sign, was instrumental in
getting the sign installed. In the near future speed limit signs will also be
installed in an attempt to keep our visitors, residents and employees safe.
Please remember to always drive slowly through the parking lots and be aware of
other drivers and pedestrians.
Safety First
Recently, Scott Appel, Director of Dining Services, and
John Suprano, Assistant Director of Dining Services, successfully completed a
National Restaurant Association program regarding safe food handling. The
two-day program known as “ServSafe” is The Educational Foundation’s food safety
program. It focuses on the foodservice leader’s role in measuring risks, setting
policies, and training and supervising dietary staff. In addition, Scott and
John received a three-year certificate from ServSafe, which is accepted in most
jurisdictions that require training for food safety. Way to go Scott and John!
March 2003
New
Event to be held May 3, 2003
The Development staff is pleased to
announce a new fundraising event that will make its debut on May 3, 2003. The
event is a Progressive Dinner and this will be the first time that St. Anne Home
has hosted such an event. All proceeds for this event will benefit the
residents of Villa Angela at St. Anne Home and the St. Felix Care Fund.
The Progressive Dinner will include a
four-course meal, which will be served in the homes of friends and family
members of St. Anne Home from around the local communities. The courses will
include: hors d'oeuvres/cocktails, soup/salad, and an entrée. Dessert/coffee
will be hosted by the residents of Villa Angela at St. Anne Home. A timeline
will be followed so our guests can progress to all the houses and enjoy their
meals in a timely fashion. We have a number of families who have graciously
volunteered to serve as hosts and hostesses for the evening.
In addition to the dinner, a raffle will
be held at the end of the evening featuring three fabulous prizes. This drawing
will take place when the guests arrive at Villa Angela for coffee and dessert.
Tickets for this raffle will be mailed out in the invitations, which will be
mailed in late March or they may also be purchased at the Front Desk of St. Anne
Home or from a committee member for a $10 donation.
The committee working on this event
includes s. Bernice M. Fiedor, Dawn Waller, Bernie Biss, Lauren Raimondo, Karen
Lynch, Betty Carbone, and Jean Conte. We feel this event will not only be a
beneficial event for Villa Angela at St. Anne Home but also an enjoyable evening
for all those who participate.
If you are interested in serving as a
host/hostess for this event, please contact the Development Office for more
information.
Christmas Wishes Come True!!!
The scene was set as the residents sat
around the Christmas tree, singing Christmas carols and
anxiously awaiting Santa Claus’ arrival. They anticipated the jingle of his
bells and his boisterous ho-ho-ho’s. The residents are bright eyed as he
appears and they welcome him with “oh there’s Santa” and “hi Santa, I’ve been
real good this year.” Santa even brings Mrs. Claus at times when he can get her
away from the North Pole. It was a heartwarming scene as the employees got to
see their “extended family” reminiscence of their “youthful days.” The
employees participated by singing, decorating, serving cookies and eggnog and
passing out the Christmas gifts. Thank you to the employees, volunteers and
families that helped to make the season bright.
Special
thanks to the individuals and organizations that participated by purchasing
gifts or donating monies for the Christmas Wish Program. We realize that it
takes time to choose just the right gift or search for that special color of
blue, or even wrapping the gifts. This time you have given up to make the
resident’s holiday season extra special is much appreciated. Your generosity
and tremendous outpouring of love touches everyone at St. Anne Home. Without
you, this program would not be a success.
Thank you all
for your support and participation of the Christmas Wish Program!
Personal
Care Home – Proposed Regulations Update
On December 11, 2002, at the Clairon
Hotel in Carlisle, PA a public meeting was held to review the over 800 comments
sent in to The Department of Public Welfare (DPW) on the proposed personal care
home regulations. These comments came from personal care home administrators as
well as residents, and their friend and family members in opposition to the
proposed regulations. The Office of Licensing and Regulatory Management wrote
the proposed regulations over the past year in hopes that they would be approved
and implemented immediately. Fortunately, this has not been the case.
Deputy Secretary William Gannon stated
that DPW would continue to work with stakeholders over the next two years to
make revisions to the proposed regulations. Several sections of the proposed
regulations will be researched and revised by individual workgroups. These
sections include: assessment and support plan, administrative training,
medication training, staff training and annual inspection. Workgroup meetings
are being held throughout the state of Pennsylvania to negotiate and develop the
final regulations.
News
from the Development Office
Did you know…
·
Data shows that 85% of companies will match 100% or more
of employees’ gifts!
·
Nearly 90% of companies that match gifts don’t require
their employees to be affiliated with the nonprofit to which they’re giving!
·
Thousands of matching gift companies will match even
part-time employees’ gifts!
Ask your company today if they will match a gift that
you make to St. Anne Home! Contact the Development Office for more information,
724-837-6070.
Source: Blackbaud News – 12/18/02
December 2002
September 11 Memorial Service Held
On September
11, 2002, one year after the
tragic terrorist attacks took place on America, St. Anne Home held a memorial
service for all those who died as a result of the attacks. A service was
held in the chapel and we had several special people present. All
veteran residents were brought to the front of the chapel and given a rose to
thank them for their service to our country. Also a representative from
the following organizations was present: The Greensburg Volunteer Fire
Department, The Greensburg Police Department, The US Marines, The US Navy and
The US Air Force. Thank you to all who participated to make this an extra
special day.
Click
HERE for more pictures from the service.
Biomedical Ethics Committee is
Formed
In early
summer 2001, Christy Kremer, Director of Social Services, and Jennie Long,
Assistant Director of Nursing, set out on a journey to start the Biomedical
Ethics committee at St. Anne Home. After some research and education, the
Biomedical Ethics committee became a reality on February 28, 2002. The
committee currently consists of 13 members which includes St. Anne Home staff
(Certified Nurses Aides, Registered Nurses and Administrative Personnel), a
physician, clergy members, community members and a former resident’s family
member. At the recommendation of the St. Anne Home Board of Directors, the
committee hopes to add three additional members in the near future. The Ethics
committee members have diverse backgrounds, which will allow for different
perspectives on each topic that are addressed at the meetings.
The Ethics committee will be used for several purposes including: policy writing
and review, education (for both staff and family members as needed), and case
reviews as issues arise. The committee is in the primary phase of gathering the
necessary information and tools to be certain they fulfill their purpose. The
members are also getting acquainted with one another and getting a feel for
working together. Over the last few months, several policies were already
reviewed and rewritten. The committee’s next endeavor is to write a mission
statement that truly reflects the established goals of the committee. If you
have any questions or concerns or are interested in becoming a committee member,
please contact Christy Kremer or Jennie Long.
September 2002
An Italian Celebration
The
residents of St. Anne Home participated in an Italian Community Day Celebration
on July 15 on our campus. The event was co-sponsored by Dante Alighieri and
Basta Che Non Fuma Lodges. Chairperson Marco Caroccia and co-chair Judy Lesnick
spearheaded the event, which included a performance by the newly formed Italian
Choir and over 30 members of both lodges.
Our residents
anxiously gathered together in the festively decorated dining room, which was
full of green, red and white streamers and balloons. Italian sing-a-longs and a
guest appearance from Peppino, the Italian Mouse, entertained the residents and
their guests for over an hour. Residents were also treated with samples of
Italian foods such as pizza, homemade pizzelles, Italian Ice, punch and lots of
La Famiglia love!
“A Harvest of
Blessings” - In The Snow
The 6th annual St.
Anne Home “A Harvest of Blessings” auction/social is just around the
corner. This years’ event will be held on November 2, 2002 once again at the
Greensburg Country Club. The event will consist of a Chinese, Silent, and Live
auction as well as a raffle, hors d’oeuvres and dinner. The social committee
has decided to go with a snowman theme this year to compliment the handmade
snowman quilt, which will be on the live auction. Snowmen will be spread
throughout the room and will serve as centerpieces and prizes.
This year’s live auction
items are sure to attract high bidding. One item is the beautiful snowman quilt
that the sisters and staff members have been working on for several months. The
quilt from last year, “Nicks of Time”, brought in $4300 for the benefit
of St. Anne Home. We are hoping for the same fantastic results this year!
Another item of interest, especially to those who grew up in area, is a complete
set of Westmoreland Milk Glass dishes and accessories. Over 140 pieces in the
set makes this a collector’s dream! Be sure to spread the word to friends and
family members who may be interested in coming to place a bid.
As in the past, we will have
themed baskets for the silent auction. These baskets will contain items such as
Penguin and Steelers tickets, paintings, baby accessories, golf course passes,
autographed memorabilia, electronics and much more. The Chinese auction is a
great place to take a chance on smaller items.
Please consider coming to the
auction this year. It is sure to be a wonderful night out with your friends,
family members, or co-workers. The price to attend this year’s event is $75 per
person, which includes a sit down dinner. If you are interested in attending,
please see Dawn Waller in the Development Office.
We are also looking for
donations for the auction. If you or someone you know would be interested in
donating an item that we can use, it would be greatly appreciated. Please drop
all donations off in the Development Office. You will receive a letter of
receipt for your donation.
Let’s Have a Party!
Where
can we have it? Who can make the food? Where do we get a cake? What should we
have to drink? These are all common worries of the party planner. Let the Lil’
Shoppe Staff at St. Anne Home help you out! Our Lil’ Shoppe is available for
our residents and their families to use for small parties and gatherings. You
may choose your menu from a large variety of choices as well as order a homemade
cake or other desserts. It is the perfect place for birthday and anniversary
parties or just an everyday gathering. Contact Carol Atkinson, Lil’ Shoppe
Manager, for more information.
Hot Off the
Presses!
Reviews regarding the St. Anne
Home Harvest of Blessings cookbooks have been outstanding! Those who have
purchased the book and prepared some of the delectable items within have been
overwhelmed at how simple and delicious the recipes are!
More than 800 of the books have
already flown out the door and only 200 remain. Don't wait until it is too
late. Call St. Anne Home now to reserve your own copy for just $20 (add $3 per
book if you would like it mailed to you). All proceeds benefit the home. Call
724-837-6070 for more details.
Bon Appetit!!!!
Cookbook Corrections
We extend our sincere apologies to the following supporters of our Harvest of
Blessings cookbook for the unfortunate errors listed:
To Lucia Borgna who contributed Lucy Borgna’s Fetuccini Alfredo recipe in memory
of Catherine Borgna Sphon. Please note the following correction: ½ c. butter
(not 12 c. butter). If you added 12
cups of butter, we hope you called your cardiologist!
To Rosemary Abeles who contributed the Caramel-Filled Chocolate Cookie recipe.
Please note the following correction: 2¼ c. flour (not 1¼ c. flour).
To Mike Miller who contributed the Heavenly Hash recipe. Please note the
following correction: 3 cups peanuts and 3 cups marshmallows (not 5 cups each).
To Larry Richert, KDKA, Thai Salmon Salad and Pike Run Country Club, Boursin
Cheese Chicken, for not highlighting them among the list of celebrities and
restaurants. We are sincerely grateful for your participation and contribution
in our Harvest of Blessings cookbook.
To request
a copy of the corrections that will fit right into your cookbook, please call
the Development Office at 724-837-6070.
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