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Beth Abraham Adult Day Health Care Program
and R.J. Bailey School Celebrate Intergenerational Program
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White Plains, NY, December 20, 2006 - With hopes of spreading some holiday cheer, students from the R.J. Bailey Elementary School recently performed for disabled and chronically ill registrants of Beth Abraham’s Adult Day Health Care Program - Westchester, a member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services. For the past ten years, the children involved in Bailey’s Intergenerational Program have lifted the spirits of registrants by making regular trips to the center in Greenburgh.
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Whether it is performing songs and dances, participating in arts and crafts projects, or simply spending quality time with the registrants, the students have truly become part of Beth Abraham’s Adult Day Health Care Program family.
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Beth Abraham Health Services Holds
"Expressions in Art Therapy"
An Exhibit Showcasing Selected Works of Its Talented Residents
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Bronx, NY, December 14, 2006 – As the holiday season quickly approaches, many people often feel a renewed sense of inspiration and hope for the new year. On December 7, these sentiments were also felt throughout the halls of Beth Abraham Health Services, a member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, as they celebrated the grand opening of a special art exhibit entitled “Expressions in Art Therapy.” The exhibit showcases selected pieces of artwork created by some of Beth Abraham’s talented residents.
The exhibit consists of a variety of vibrant creations, from hand painted water colors to sketches, and arts and crafts. Although the artists, who range in age from 24 to 93 years old, are similar in that they all reside at Beth Abraham -- their unique styles, personalities and abilities can be seen in each of their creations.
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Pictured (standing l-r): Michael Fassler, President and Chief Executive Officer, Beth Abraham Family of Health Services; and Beth Abraham Health Services staff Fidelma Dolan, Associate Administrator; Bernadette Covington, Therapeutic Recreation Specialist; and Silvia Blumenfeld, Therapeutic Recreation Specialist; withartists Roberta Josephy, Concetta Previte, and Bertha Lindsay-Goldstein.
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The artists, some of whom use adaptive devices to create their work, suffer from a wide range of debilitating disabilities such as traumatic brain injuries, strokes and spinal cord injuries.
“‘Expressions in Art Therapy’ is an opportunity for the Beth Abraham family to come together to celebrate both our talented residents and our Therapeutic Recreation Specialists, who motivate our residents to overcome their challenges by exploring their feelings and emotions in a supportive and comforting environment,” said Connie Tejeda, Corporate Director of Marketing and Public Affairs for Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, “The determination and courage of our residents is an inspiration to us all.”
The exhibit is due in large part to the dedication of Beth Abraham’s Therapeutic Recreation Specialists who provide treatment services and recreation activities to our residents. Therapeutic recreation helps patients rediscover the skills, joys and little pleasures in life that they knew before becoming ill or disabled. Our therapists work as part of a creative team to add absorbing and therapeutic activity to our residents’ days by coordinating activities that allow them to enjoy a full and rewarding life. Using a variety of techniques, including arts and crafts, animals, sports, games, dance and movement, drama, music, and community outings, they treat and maintain the physical, mental, social and emotional wellbeing of our patients. Therapists help individuals reduce depression, stress, and anxiety; recover basic motor functioning and reasoning abilities; build confidence; and socialize.
Susan Simpson, a resident a Beth Abraham since 2005, can attest to the benefits of recreation therapy. “Participating in the art program lifts my spirits,” she says, “Art makes me feel like I’m somebody.”
Community members are invited to visit the exhibit, which will be on display throughout the holiday season at Beth Abraham’s 612 Allerton Avenue facility. For more information about “Expressions in Art Therapy” or to learn more about Beth Abraham Health Services, please call (718) 519-4156 or (718) 519-4154 or visit us on the web at www.bethabe.org.
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From the Joy of Knitting to the Joy of Giving:
ADHC Registrants Donate Knitted Projects
to Open Arms Shelter in White Plains
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White Plains, NY, December 20, 2006 -- The members of the Knitting Club at Beth Abraham’s Adult Day Health Care Program (ADHC), a not-for-profit health care organization and a member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, recently donated hats and scarves to the Open Arms Shelter in White Plains, NY, turning the joy of knitting to the joy of giving. The items were included in the gift bags which were given away to individuals being helped by the Shelter at their annual holiday party. The Knitting Club, which is made up of registrants with a variety of physical disabilities, uses knitting to reduce stress, strengthen hand-mind coordination, and increase artistic creativity.
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Pictured from left to right are Cary Andrews, director of the Beth Abraham ADHC Program-Westchester; Sam Beamon, ADHC Registrant and member of the Knitting Club; Jeffrey Brown, Open Arms Shelter alumnus; Charlie Beuer, Deputy Director of Open Arms Shelter; Susan Weisfeld, volunteer at Open Arms Shelter and coordinator of their Annual Holiday Party; and Barbara Smith, Volunteer Coordinator, Open Arms Shelter.
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Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation and
Bed Stuy Senior Citizen Task Force Present
the 9th Annual Gospel Fest and Awards Presentation
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Brooklyn, NY, December 7, 2006 - The Bed-Stuy Senior Citizens Task Force and Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation, a member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, recently celebrated their 9th Annual Gospel Fest and Awards Presentation. The eventserved as an opportunity to honor exemplary community leaders while providing the uplifting sounds of local Gospel Choir talent.
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Pictured (l-r) Clari Gilbert, Senior Vice President of Operations, Beth Abraham Family of Health Services; Rose Jeffcoat, Member of Evening Star Baptist Church; Alonzo Hines, Director, Concord Home Services For The Elderly, Inc.; Dr. Mona Pervil-Ulysse, Chief of Rheumatology at Interfaith Medical Center and Member of the French Speaking Baptist Church; Marina Williams, Member of Fort Greene Hazel Brooks Senior Center; Cecily Baker, Vice President of Home Care,Beth Abraham Family of Health Services; Marion Cooper, Member of The Greater St. Mary's Church of Christ; Deloris Olff, Former Volunteer Coordinator and Member of Bed-Stuy Task Force at CNR; Lidia Leudo, Assistant Director of CNR's Centralized Referral, Intake and Admission; Assemblywoman Annette Robinson; and Gospel Fest organizer, Jacqueline Kennedy-Saddler, Community Relations Manager at CNR.
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CNR Commemorates World AIDS Day
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Brooklyn, NY, December 7, 2006 -- On December 1, 2006, staff members of Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation’s AIDS Home Care & Long Term Home Health Care Program commemorated World AIDS Day with a series of presentations regarding the current AIDS crisis.
Entitled “Stop AIDS…Keep the Promise” the event featured a performance by African drumming group “L.A. & Simply Skins: Daughters of the Drum.”
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Pictured (standing l-r): CNR staff members Alease Coleman, Team Clerk; Sterling Berkeley, Social Work Supervisor; Carmen Cruz-Lee,
Community Affairs Coordinator;Cheryl Bellamy, Director, AIDS Home Care Program; Cecily Baker, Vice President of Long Term Home Health Care; and Josephine Stark, Performance Improvement Manager; with members of
“L.A. & Simply Skins: Daughters of the Drum.”
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CNR, a member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, provides a full range of continuing care services through programs such as adult day health care, long term home care, AIDS home care, rehabilitation, and nursing home care to the frail elderly and chronically ill in Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, and the Bronx.
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Margaret Tietz Holds Celebratory Breakfast for Legislators
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Pictured from left to right: Linda Spiegel, Director of Public
Affairs, MTC; Ruth Wimpfheimer, Chief of Staff for
Assemblyman Mark Weprin; Gerald Hart, Executive Director,
MTC; SenatorFrank Padavan; Assemblywoman Nettie
Mayersohn; and Assemblyman Rory Lancman.
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Queens, NY, December 7, 2006 - A Celebratory Breakfast was held at Margaret Tietz Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, a member of the Beth AbrahamFamily of Health Services, to congratulate legislators who were either re-elected or newly elected in November. Senator Frank Padavan, Assemblywoman Nettie Mayersohn and Assemblyman Rory Lanceman were in attendance. The Chief of Staff for Assemblyman Mark Weprin was also present. This opportunity enabled MTC to introduce its new Executive Director, Gerald Hart, and bring the representatives up to date on the upcoming expansion and renovation projects as well as the ce new affiliation with NYU Medical Center Rusk Institute as their exclusive site in Queens.
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Beth Abraham Housing Celebrates Annual Cider Sip
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Bronx, NY, December 7, 2006 - Beth Abraham Housing recently had its Cider Sip as part of its Thanksgiving celebration for residents. Assemblywoman Naomi Rivera donated 8 turkeys, which we raffled off to the residents in all four buildings.
Pictured are Assemblywoman Naomi Rivera; Nellie Toro, Tenant Relation Coordinator, and Daniel Camejo, director of Housing; with Elsie Vélez and Miguel Bermudez, tenants who won the raffle.
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Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation
Community Advisory Board Donates State-of-the-Art
Mobile Computer Workstation for CNR Residents
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Brooklyn, NY, November 28, 2006 – Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation (CNR), a member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, held a ribbon cutting ceremony of their new, state-of-the-art Mobile Computer Workstation on November 17, 2006 at their 520 Prospect Place, Brooklyn, NY facility.
Recognizing the potential benefits of computer technology and internet access in improving residents’ quality of life at CNR, Brenda Torres, CTRS, Recreation Manager, started working on a proposal to acquire a mobile computer workstation that is adaptable to residents’ needs and abilities. Although there are computers stationed throughout CNR for resident use, the Mobile Workstation is a portable computer system that will allow patients who are bed bound and have restricted motor skills the ability to surf the internet and use software with the help of specially designed adaptive devices. With the use of large button wireless keyboards, alternative pointing devices, touch screen monitors, and educational software, residents will be able to learn new skills and increase sensory stimulation.
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Dr. Patricia Hazlewood, President of CNR’s Community
Advisory Board, presents a $10,000 donation to
Michael Fassler, President and CEO, Beth Abraham
Family of Health Services, for the purchase of a new
mobile computer workstation for CNR residents.
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The Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation’s Community Advisory Board read Torres’ proposal and donated the proceeds of their bi-annual Excel Awards Ceremony to the purchase of the Mobile Computers, in memory of two deceased board members Grace Agard Harewood and Dorothy Fisher. A contribution was also donated by the Fort Greene Senior Citizens Council, Inc. in memory of Harewood, who was their Executive Director. For more information, please click here to view our press release.
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Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation
Welcomes Two New Senior Hires
Veteran nursing professional and established rehabilitation therapist
join staff at comprehensive skilled nursing facility in Brooklyn
BROOKLYN, NY, November 3, 2006 – The Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation is pleased to announce the addition of dedicated health care professionals Arlette Stewart, RN, MSA,RAC-C, as the new Director of Clinical Services and Randolf Palmaira, MSPT, MSA, DOR as the newly appointed Director of Rehabilitative Services.
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As Director of Clinical Services, Stewart is responsible for ensuring the delivery of the highest level of resident-centered care by coordinating the activities of all clinical disciplines.
Keeping in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, Stewart intends on working closely with her nursing leadership staff to deliver exceptional direct patient care.
A self described “hands-on manager,” Stewart remains committed to developing a continuing education program for nurses and anticipates implementing an intense nursing recruitment and retention program to continually strengthen CNR’s nursing department.
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Arlette Stewart, RN, MSA, RAC-C
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Prior to joining CNR, Stewart served as the Director of Nursing at the 219-bed Nicholas A. Rango Health Care Facility in Manhattan, where she was responsible for the operation of their clinical services department for nearly three years. Stewart began her health care career in 1974 as Head Nurse of the Medical/Surgical Unit of Georgetown Public Hospital in Guyana. Since arriving in the United States, she has successfully established an extensive career which has spanned more than thirty years.
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Randolf Palmaira, MSPT,
MSA, DOR
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Randolf Palmaira also joins the staff as the Director of Rehabilitative Services which includes the Physical and Occupational Therapy, and Speech Pathology departments. Palmaira will continue to support CNR’s commitment to promoting, restoring and maintaining patient health through the implementation of innovative rehabilitation services. Palmaira anticipates incorporating new tools into the rehab area by including an audio/visual “Education Corner” which will include visual demonstrations of daily living exercises for patients and their families. Palmaira is also interested in developing an accredited rehabilitative stroke specialty unit in response to the evolving medical needs of CNR’s community.
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Prior to joining CNR, Palmaira was the Director of Rehabilitation at the 240-bed Bishop Henry B. Hucles Episcopal Nursing Home in Brooklyn, NY for nearly nine years. A fifteen year veteran of the healthcare industry, Palmaira has worked extensively with the clinical internship programs of educational institutions such as Touro College, Long Island University and La Guardia Community College and has presented at a variety of venues in the NY Metropolitan area about rehabilitative services.
“We are proud to welcome Ms. Stewart and Mr. Palmaira to the CNR family. Their extensive professional accomplishments, combined with their determination and dedication to direct patient care, have made them a natural choice as the leaders of our clinical and rehabilitation departments. We are confident in their abilities in guiding CNR on our culture change journey and are delighted to have them on our team,” states Winsome McLean Davis, Administrator of the Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation.
About Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation
CNR, a member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, is amulti-faceted, 320-bed skilled nursing facility. In addition, through programs such as adult day health care, long term home care, AIDS home care, rehabilitation, and nursing home care, CNR is able to provide a full range of continuing care services to the frail elderly and chronically ill through in Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, and the Bronx. For more information, visit www.cnr.org.
About Beth Abraham Family of Health Services
Founded in 1920, Beth Abraham Family of Health Services is a not-for-profit, continuing care organization established to care for poor, chronically ill and disabled adults of varying ages and backgrounds. In the forefront of continuing health care, Beth Abraham's services include four residential skilled nursing facilities, adult day health care, home care, AIDS home care and independent housing facilities for the elderly and disabled. Beth Abraham sponsors the nation’s largest Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) through Comprehensive Care Management (CCM). Its world-renowned Institute for Music and Neurologic Function is dedicated to advancing scientific inquiry on music and the brain and developing clinical treatments to benefit people of all ages. With more than 3,000 employees, Beth Abraham Family of Health Services serves nearly 5,000 people daily and remains committed to making life better for people. For more information on Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, please visit www.bethabe.org.
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Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation and
Bed-Stuy Senior Citizen Task Force Present
the 9th Annual Gospel Fest and Awards Presentation
Brooklyn, NY, November 8, 2006 – Members of the community are cordially invited to kick off the Thanksgiving weekend by joining Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation (CNR), a member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, and The Bed-Stuy Senior Citizens Task Force at the 9th Annual Gospel Fest and Awards Presentation. The event, scheduled for November 25 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Greater St. Mary’s Church of Christ, 493-5 Monroe Street Brooklyn, NY 11221, will serve as an opportunity to honor exemplary community leaders while providing the uplifting sounds of local Gospel Choir talent.
This year’s honorees include Cecily Baker, Vice President of Home Care, Beth Abraham Family of Health Services; Alonzo R. Hines, Director, Concord Home Services For The Elderly, Inc; Dr. Mona Pervil-Ulysse, Chief of Rheumatology at Interfaith Medical Center and Member of the French Speaking Baptist Church; Deloris Olff, former Volunteer Coordinator and member of Bed-Stuy Task Force at CNR; Rose Jeffcoat, a member of Evening Star Baptist Church; Marion Cooper, member of The Greater St. Mary's Church of Christ; and Marina Williams, a member of Fort Greene Hazel Brooks Senior Center.
A suggested donation of $10 is appreciated. For more information or to purchase tickets, please call Jackie Kennedy-Saddler at (718) 636-1000 ext. 437.
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Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation’s
Adult Day Health Care Program
Celebrating 10 years of helping people live independently!
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Pictured (l-r) Winsome McLean Davis, Administrator of CNR; NaomiBerger, VicePresident of the Adult Day Health Care Programs; Sheva Turk, Program Director of CNR’s ADHC Jamaica Program; Dr. Andrew Rubin, Jamaica Hospital Medical Center; and Jane Kane, Music Therapist at CNR’s ADHC Program.
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JAMAICA, NY, November3, 2006 – Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation (CNR) Adult Day Health Care Program (ADHC), a member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, recently hosted a celebratory breakfast in honor of its 10 year anniversary. Since opening its doors in 1996, CNR’s ADHC has proudly served adults with chronic medical conditions and physical disabilities throughout Queens.
During his remarks, guest speaker Dr. Andrew Rubin of Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, stressed the importance of being proactive in meeting the healthcare needs of the senior population. “CNR’s Adult Day Health Care Program is a special place where registrants develop a renewed sense of purpose in a safe and pleasant environment,” said Dr. Rubin, “For the past ten years, it has remained a shining star within our community.”
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Jane Kane, music therapist at CNR’s Adult Day Health Care Program also spoke about how therapeutic recreational programs, such as music therapy, promote social and physical well being. According to Ms. Kane, “Music provides the key to opening a world of communication and self-expression. It lifts the mood and spirit of those who are depressed and enables those facing a variety of challenges to feel successful.”
In addition to recreational activities, registrants have access to quality medical, rehabilitative, nutritional, and social work services. “Registrants receive the health care services they need while having the opportunity to live independently by remaining in their own homes” added Naomi Berger, Vice President of Adult Day Health Care for Beth Abraham Family of Health Services.
In close coordination with each registrant’s primary care physician, CNR’s skilled nursing staffmonitors medical conditions and render treatments as ordered. Assistance with activities of daily living is also provided. For more information about CNR’s Adult Day Health Care Program, please call Sheva Turk, Program Director at (718) 297-4700.
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Beth Abraham Health Services Donates Patient Beds
to Georgetown Public Hospital in Guyana
BRONX, NY, October 30, 2006 – In an effort to continue the humanitarian work of our organization, Beth Abraham Heath Services, a member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, recently donated nearly 30 patient beds and other medical equipment to Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) – Guyana’s largest medical center.
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Clari Gilbert, Senior Vice President of Operations for Beth Abraham Family of
Health Services (center), stands along side Bissoonauth Briglall, Churaman Mohan (sitting), Clari Gilbert, Lisa McKenzie-Wayne, and Lalldhar Briglall, Beth Abraham employees from Guyana, on the loading dock as donated beds make their way into the shipping vessel headed for Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.
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In close collaboration between GPHC and Beth Abraham’s Materials and Facilities Management departments, the beds were packed and shipped by professional movers from Laparkan, an experienced shipping company that specializes in ocean freight and deliveries to the Caribbean. The beds, which were packed in late September are currently en route via an ocean freight vessel and are scheduled to be received in Guyana at the end of October.
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“We are proud to support Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation with our donation of patient beds and hope that our contribution will assist them in providing qualityhealth care to the people of Guyana,” said Clari Gilbert, Senior Vice President of Operations forBeth Abraham Family of Health Services.
There are nearly a dozen Guyanese employees at Beth Abraham, and all were eager about the prospect of helping patients in their native land. For Certified Nursing Assistant Lisa McKenzie-Wayne, this donation was especially symbolic, “I was born in Guyana at Georgetown Public Hospital and know firsthand just how important its services are to the people of the community. I was excited to learn of this venture and am happy in knowing that we were able to help people in my homeland.”
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Beth Abraham’s Adult Day Health Care Program
Celebrating 10 years of helping people live independently!
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WHITE PLAINS, NY, October 11, 2006 –Beth Abraham’s Adult Day Health Care Program (ADHC) Westchester, a member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, recently hosted a celebratory breakfast in honor of its 10 year anniversary. Since opening its doors in 1996, Beth Abraham’s ADHC has proudly served adults with chronic medical conditions and physical disabilities throughout the county of Westchester.
In her featured keynote address, “Enhancing Quality of Life and Reducing the Cost of Healthcare” guest speaker Christine Fitzpatrick, Executive Director of the Adult Day Health Care Council, spoke about the benefits registrants receive by utilizing ADHC programs. Citing a recent study in which Beth Abraham Westchester ADHC was a participant, Ms. Fitzpatrick described how chronically ill ADHC patients had a significantly lower amount of hospitalizations than similarly situated Medicare patients.
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Pictured (l-r): Cary Andrews, ADHC Program Director;
Caity Selleck, representative from Assemblymember
Brodsky's office; Paul Feiner, Greenburgh Town Supervisor; Naomi Berger, Vice President, ADHC Programs, Beth Abraham Family of HealthServices; Christine Fitzpatrick, Executive Director, Adult Day Health Care Council; and Michael S. Fassler, President and CEO, Beth Abraham Family of Health Services
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According to Naomi Berger, Vice President of Adult Day Health Care for Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, “This impressive result is attributed to the continual health monitoring and case management patients receive in adult day health care programs. Registrants receive the health care services they need while having the opportunity to live independently by remaining in their own homes.”
Yet the benefits of ADHC programs often extend beyond the registrant and to their families – with caregivers who were surveyed expressing a decrease in their stress levels and some experiencing an increase in their sense of well being. Beth Abraham’s skilled nursing staff works in close coordination with eachregistrant’s primary care physician, monitoring medical conditions and rendering treatments as ordered. Assistance with activities of daily living is also provided. Registrants have access to quality medical, rehabilitative, nutritional, and social work services in a community setting. Beth Abraham’s Adult Day Health Care Center also has a dynamic therapeutic recreational program which promotes social and physical well being.Formore information about Beth Abraham’s Adult Day Health Care Program, please call Cary Andrews, Program Director at (914) 993-7868.
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Margaret Tietz Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
and Rusk Institute Rehabilitation Network
Announce Partnership
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QUEENS, NY, September 28, 2006 -- A Press Conference was held at the Margaret Tietz Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, a member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, to announce the selection of MTC by NYU Medical Center, Rusk InstituteRehabilitation Network, as their site of choice for rehabilitation in the borough of Queens.
This prestigious partnership now affords Queens residents rehabilitative care consistent with Rusk Institute protocolswithout havingto go to Manhattan.
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Pictured from left to right are Linda Spiegel, Public Affairs Director at Margaret Tietz; Assemblyman William Scarborough; NYU Vice President of Operations Carl Willemin; Assemblywoman Nettie Mayersohn; .Margaret Tietz Executive Director Gerald Hart; Assemblywoman Ann-Margaret Carrozza; and James Karkenny, Executive Director of ContinuingCare at NYU.
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2006 Music Has PowerTM Awards
Featuring Performance by Rob Thomas
Honoring Acclaimed Neurologist and Author Dr. Oliver Sacks
September 20, 2006 (New York, NY) – On November 6, 2006 The 6th Annual Music Has Power Awards benefit will once again return to the Allen Room, Frederick P. Rose Hall, home of Jazz at Lincoln Center. The awards show is presented by The Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF), a member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services and will be hosted by Emmy award-winning PBS Anchor Rafael Pi Roman. Actor Dustin Hoffman will be on site to present the award to honoree Dr. Oliver Sacks. Scheduled to perform at this year’s star-studded event are Grammy-award winning singer/songwriter Rob Thomas, Grammy-nominated folk singer Patty Griffin, dynamic virtuoso violinist Timothy Fain, and fourteen year old violin prodigy and national concert artist Jourdan Urbach. Additional attendees include Lisa Edelstein, star of Fox’s Emmy-winning “House.”
This year, the IMNF is proud to honor renowned neurologist and author Dr. Oliver Sacks. “We celebrate his 40 years at Beth Abraham and honor his outstanding contributions in support of music therapy and the effect of music on the human brain and mind,” said Dr. Concetta Tomaino, Executive Director of the IMNF.
Dr. Sacks has written extensively about his experiences and findings and in 1973, he penned the highly acclaimed book “Awakenings” based on his work at Beth Abraham Health Services. His literature was later adapted into the 1990 Oscar-nominated Hollywood movie, “Awakenings” for which Dr. Sacks was the inspiration for Robin Williams’ character.
The Music Has Power Award was established six years ago to celebrate and recognize the significant accomplishments of the men and women who have brought new understanding to the use of the power of music to awaken and heal. Through this celebration, funds raised will support music therapy programs, along with clinical and scientific research. Past sponsors have included Kettle One Vodka; MTV; NAMM, The International Music Products Association; Steinway & Sons; and VH1.
The 2006 Music Has Power event begins at 7 p.m. For tickets, sponsorship and journal tributes, please contact: Cheryl Burgos at (718) 519-5880. All tickets include admittance to a special VIP reception.
Founded in 1995 at Beth Abraham Health Services in The Bronx, the IMNF is unique in that it is driven by 35 years of clinical observations on the actual effects of music on different types of physical and neurological trauma. Directed by renowned music therapist Dr. Concetta Tomaino, with medical guidance from distinguished neurologist Dr. Oliver Sacks, its distinctive setting allows researchers to not only apply their theories, but to follow patient rehabilitation in the long term. The Institute actively collaborates withresearchers and practitioners at other leading organizations to advance world progress in understanding and applying the power of music to promote healing and wellness. Some of the Institute's most promising research has been in the areas of music and language, memory, and recovery from nerve injury -- leading to groundbreaking discoveries as to how music therapy can heal.
The Institute for Music and Neurologic Function is recognized internationally for its success in treating a variety of neurological conditions including strokes, trauma, dementia, Alzheimer's, and Parkinsons. Most recently, the IMNF expanded its work in music therapy for childhood developmental conditions including autism.
Please click here to download our press kit.
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The Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation’s Community Advisory Board read Torres’ proposal and donated the proceeds of their bi-annual Excel Awards Ceremony to the purchase of the Mobile Computers, in memory of two deceased board members Grace Agard Harewood and Dorothy Fisher. A contribution was also donated by the Fort Greene Senior Citizens Council, Inc. in memory of Harewood, who was their Executive Director. “The Community Advisory Board is pleased to be able to donate the Mobile Workstation to the residents of Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation,” said Dr. Patricia Hazlewood, President of CNR’s Community Advisory Board. “We are delighted to be able to support CNR in such a meaningful way.”
“The addition of a Mobile Workstation will benefit the residents of CNR by giving them the opportunity to reconnect with family members through e-mail, join on-line support groups and virtually travel the world without leaving the comfort and safety of CNR,” said Michael Fassler, President and CEO of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, “We are grateful for the generous donation by CNR’s Community Advisory Board in helping to turn this dream into a reality.”
About Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation
CNR, a member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, is a multi-faceted, 320-bed skilled nursing facility. In addition, through programs such as adult day health care, long term home care, AIDS home care, rehabilitation, and nursing home care, CNR is able to provide a full range of continuing care services to the frail elderly and chronically ill through in Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, and the Bronx. For more information, visit www.cnr.org.
About Beth Abraham Family of Health Services
Founded in 1920, Beth Abraham Family of Health Services is a not-for-profit, continuing care organization established to care for poor, chronically ill and disabled adults of varying ages and backgrounds. In the forefront of continuing health care, Beth Abraham's services include four residential skilled nursing facilities, adult day health care, home care, AIDS home care and independent housing facilities for the elderly and disabled. Beth Abraham sponsors the nation’s largest Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) through Comprehensive Care Management (CCM). Its world-renowned Institute for Music and Neurologic Function is dedicated to advancing scientific inquiry on music and the brain and developing clinical treatments to benefit people of all ages. With more than 3,000 employees, Beth Abraham Family of Health Services serves nearly 5,000 people daily and remains committed to making life better for people.For more information on Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, please visit www.bethabe.org.
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Beth Abraham's Una Stewart
"Caught in the Act" Providing Exemplary Service
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BRONX, NY, September 2006 -- The exciting "Caught In The Act" Employee Recognition Program is now underway at Beth Abraham Health Services, providing immediate, on-the-spot recognition to employees who provide exemplary service.
As an employee is "CaughtIn the Act" of exemplary service, he/she is immediately recognized by a Department Head/Supervisor/Manager, and is presented with an adhesive gold star on his or her ID card. Any staff member who is caught on four separate occasions (four stars) will be given a $25 gift certificate.
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Ms. Una Stewart,Nurse Manager, pictured here with Jean McKenzie, Asst. Director of Nursing; Celeste Smith, HR Director; and Margaret Rivers, Administrator; is the first recipient of a $25 gift certificate.
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Beth Abraham and CNR Adult Day Health Care Programs
in Westchester and Jamaica Celebrate
10 Years of Helping People Live Independently
September 21, 2006 -- Beth Abraham and CNR's Adult Day Health Care Programs (ADHC) in Westchester and Jamaica, respectively, members of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, are celebrating ten years of helping people live independently.
Beth Abraham's ADHC Program - Westchester will be hosting a celebratory breakfast in honor of its 10 year anniversary on Friday, September 29, 2006 from 9 -11 a.m. The breakfast, which will be held at the 335 Old TarrytownRoad in White Plains will feature guest speaker Christine Fitzpatrick, Executive Director of the Adult Day Health Care Council, who will speak on "Enhancing Quality of Life and Reducing the Cost of Health Care." Please click here for more information.
CNR's ADHC Program - Jamaica will be hosting a 10th Anniversary Celebration Breakfast on Thursday, October 19, 2006 from 9:30 -11:30 a.m. at 97-35 Allendale St. in Jamaica. Guest speaker Dr. Andrew Rubin of the Jamaica Hospital Medical Center will speak on "Enhancing the Quality of Life for the Frail Elderly and Disabled" and highlight pertinent topics relating to Adult Day Health Care. Please click here for more information.
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Margaret Tietz Staff and Residents
Enjoy "A Day at Shea"
| QUEENS, NY, September10, 2006 -- Staff at Margaret Tietz Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, a member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, treated its residents and residents' family members to "A Day at Shea." This is one of many activities that are in line with MTC's dedication to providing non-traditional careservices in atraditional nursing facility. Itsresidents enjoy not only quality health care but alsoa lineup of various recreational activities that help enhance their quality of life. |
Margaret Tietz residents enjoy a beautifulday at Shea Stadium with Executive Director/Administrator Gerald Hart and Public Affairs Director Linda Spiegel |
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CNRResidents and Staff Participate in
"Hope and Possibility" Race
With medals displayed upon their chests, Team CNR Brooklyn, accompanied by Jacqueline Rome, CNR recreation therapist and Brenda Torres, CNR recreation manager and volunteers coordinator raise their arms in victory as they celebrate
at the finish line. |
NEW YORK, NY, August 2006 -- Residents and staff of Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation (CNR), a member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, recently participated in this year’s Achilles Track Club “Hope and Possibility 5M” race/walk.
The event, which occurred in Central Park, drew a crowd of more than 1,200 participants.
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Margaret Tietz Holds "Jazz for Peace" Concert
QUEENS, NY, August 17, 2006 -- A benefit concert was recently held for the Margaret Tietz Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, a member ofthe Beth Abraham Family of Health Services. Jazz for Peace featured Rick DellaRatta, an international jazz pianist, vocalistand composer. More than 100 supporters of the Margaret Tietz Center attended the event and weretreated to a great time. The concert was held in the beautiful courtyard garden of the Center which lent itself perfectly to a summer night concert. All look forward to next summer's Concert series. Below are some event highlights.
Gerald Hart, MTC Executive Director, says a few words
as LindaSpiegel, MTC Public Affairs Director, looks on. |
More than 100 supporters of the Margaret Tietz Center
were treated to a night of good music.
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Jazz pianist, vocalist and composer Rick Dellaratta and his band
at the "Jazz for Peace" concert held at Margaret Tietz. |
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Local Entrepreneur Steven Squitieri Honored at
Beth Abraham Family of Health Services'
7th Annual Golf Classic
Michael Fassler, President and CEO, Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, presents a plaque to this year’s Annual Golf Classic Honoree Steven Squitieri, Vice President andFounder of D&J Ambulette
Service, Inc. and President of Sanitation Salvage Corp. |
BRONX, NY, July 28, 2006 – Despite soaring temperatures onMonday, July17, nearly 200 golfers gathered to support Beth Abraham Family of Health Services at its 7th Annual Golf Classic at Century Country Club & Brae Burn Country Club in Purchase, NY. Sponsored by Amalgamated Bank, this year’sGolf Classic honored Steven Squitieri, Vice President and Founder of D&J Ambulette Service, Inc. and President of Sanitation Salvage Corp.
“Beth Abraham isproud to have honored Mr. Squitieri asour 2006Golf Classic honoree,” states Michael S. Fassler, President and CEO, Beth Abraham Family of Health Services. “We commend Mr. Squitieri for his invaluable leadership and appreciate the contributions he has made to our community.”
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Born and raised in the Morris Park section of the borough, Squitieri’s penchant for hard work and his entrepreneurial spirit drove him to build a trio of successful businesses that truly serve his Bronx neighbors. Whether providing people with taxi-style transportation through the CitiCar private car service, or ensuring that the vital transport needs of frail, elderly and disabled people are met via their fleet of D & J ambulettes, Squitieri’s companies are fulfilling a very real community need by safely and securely taking people where they need to go.
For Steven Squitieri, responding to need is not simply a business practice. Bronx little league sponsorships, support of Beth Abraham Health Services and countless charity events from the Alzheimer’s Association to a children’s hospital in Queens are but a few examples of Squitieri’s commitment to giving back to the larger community.“Through theyears, D&J Ambulette Service has had the opportunity to work with Beth Abraham by providing safe and reliable transportation to the frail, elderly and disabled clientele they serve,” says Squitieri, “I am privileged to have been their 2006 honoree and look forward to continually supporting Beth Abraham in their mission to ‘make life better for people.’”
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Beth Abraham Celebrates "Rainbow Crescent"Opening
Beth Abraham Resident Rodolfo Guevara
Bags First Place Finish at Annual Central Park Challenge
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BRONX, NY, June, 2006 -- ON A ROLL! Beth Abraham Health Services resident Rodolfo Guevara, age 23, celebrateshis first place victory inthe male wheelchair division from the recently concluded YAI – National Institute for People with Disabilities“21st Annual Central Park Challenge.”
Although a gun accident left him paralyzed nearly three years ago, Rodolfo remains an ongoing source of inspiration to all thatknow him. An avid athlete, Rodolfo enjoys playing basketball, softball, and tennis and believes that“your life is not finished if you’re in a wheelchair.” He looks forward to returning as a participant in this year’s New York Marathon. |
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CNR Long Term Home Health Care Program
Co-sponsors "Continue to Remember" Conference
| BRONX, NY, June, 2006 -- On Wednesday, June 21, 2006, the Center for Nursingand Rehabilitation's AIDS Long Term Home Health Care Program, a member of the BethAbraham Family of Health Services, participated and co-sponsored this year’s “Continue to Remember” conference. Thegoal of the conference was to raise the clergy’s awareness about HIV/AIDS in the Bronx, promote education, encourage dialogue between laity and those infected/affected by the virus. The keynote address was by Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrion, Jr. This was an official event of “Bronx Week 2006.” Ms. Cheryl Bellamy, Director of Patient Services, presented CNR’s AIDS Home Health Care Program and introduced our newest staff member Mr. Loius Bailey, Community Affairs Coordinator forManhattan. Also, Ms. Carmen Cruz-Lee, Team Marketing Manager, was part of the planning committee and received a donation from the M.A.C. AIDS Foundation and from POZ Magazine. |
Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrion,
Jr. with CNR's Carmen Cruz Lee. |
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Beth Abraham Health Services Holds
6th Annual Health and Wellness Fair
BRONX, NY, June, 2006 -- On Tuesday, June 13 and Wednesday, June 14, Beth Abraham Family of Health Services held the 6th Annual Health and Wellness Fair in the Auditorium and on the patio of its 612 Allerton Avenue facility. Organized and coordinated by Wendy Brizer-Maciol, Corporate Director of Quality and Risk Management, this year’s event proved to be yet another success. Throngs of friends and neighbors from the community enjoyed the beautiful weather and visited more than 30 learning stations. Visitors received free blood pressure and asthma screenings while health educators were on hand to provide information about nutritional information, stress management techniques, medication safety and more. Below are some event highlights.
Michael Fassler, President and CEO; Wendy Brizer-Maciol,
Corporate Director of Quality and Risk Management;
and Derek George, Compliance Operations Manager |
CCM's Brenda Acevedo and Pat Moore
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Below: MUSIC HAS POWER AT BETHABRAHAM. Assistant Director Benedikte Scheiby, MA, MMEd, CMT, DPMT (right) mans the music therapy booth with volunteers to educate attendees on the benefits of music therapy.
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Above: JUST US, a band formed by former
Beth Abraham music therapy patients with
music therapist Tom Mc Clelland (left),
entertains the crowd.
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Health Fairorganizer and Beth Abraham Corporate
Director of Quality and Risk Management Wendy Maciol
with our friends from Stew Leonard's,
Stewie the Duck and Wow the Cow.
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Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation (CNR) also
participated at the Health Fair.
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Closing the Gap: P.S. 114 Students Visit Registrants
at the CNR Adult Day Health Care Program
CNR registrant Thelma Mercer acceptsflowers from first grade students of P.S. 114 |
Jamaica, NY, July 5, 2006 – On Tuesday, June 13, senior registrants of the Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation (CNR) Adult Day Health Care Program - Jamaica, a member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, were visited by first grade students from PS 114, Belle Harbor, Queens. After corresponding for several weeks, an “intergenerational meeting” finally occurred to the delight of both registrants and students.
The idea of the “intergenerational meeting” was spearheaded by Jane Kane, music and recreation therapist at CNR and Robin Levy, the children’s music teacher. Kane and Levy, both of whom reside in Rockaway Park, are “generationally” linked as well, being mother and daughter.
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Accompanied by the children’s firstgrade teacher Maria Silva and several parents, the children and registrants performed a number of songs together, including “It’s A Small World” and “This Little Light of Mine.” In addition, the students brought beautiful plants for the registrants as a special gift and reminderof their visit sothat they would be “rememberedforever.”
A special moment of the day came when the children wereintroduced to Ms. Hinson, a 103-year-old registrant who attends CNR regularly. When it was time for the children to leave, they asked if they could stay for the day andthe registrants wanted toknow when their new little friends were returning. On the bus going home, the children told their music teacher, Ms. Levy, “This was our best trip ever!” |
Martha Wright (left), a long time registrant gives a welcoming hug to first grader
Martha Bennett
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Above: CNR Music andRecreation Therapist Jane Kane (4th from l.), music teacher RobinLevy (5th from l.) and fioard member moby, and board member Beverly Taki to commemorate their generosity and tireless support towards furthering the IMNF's mission of using music therapy to heal, rehabilitate,and inspire.
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Beth Abraham Health Services Celebrates
the Grand Opening of "Rainbow Crescent"
BRONX, NY, July 28, 2006 -- Beth Abraham recently celebrated the opening of "Rainbow Crescent.” In continuing on their culture change journey, Rainbow Crescent is the 4th unit to be fully renovated at Beth Abraham. By creating self-contained communities where integration, creativity, compassion, and caring are incorporated into the residents' daily routine, residents are ableto experience the benefits of ‘person centered care.’
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Pictured are Michael Fassler, President and CEO; Clari Gilbert, Senior Vice President of Operations; Margaret Rivers, BAHS Administrator; with Rainbow Crescent staff and residents' family members during the ribbon cutting ceremony.
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"Happy Days" at Schnurmacher
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WHITE PLAINS, NY, July 26, 2006 -- Staff members atSchnurmacher Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing, a member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services (BAFHS), were recently treated to the fun-filled “Happy Days at Schnurmacher.”
The event was designed to educate staff members about the wide range of services being offered to residents, patients and community members by the entire BAFHS. Attendees enjoyedgames, raffles, prizes, and music.
Pictured: Jo Ann Davis, Director of Community Outreach, CCM; and Cary Andrews, Director of ADHC Westchester at the "Happy Days" event
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Schnurmacher Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing
Awarded Re-accreditation from Joint Commission
WHITE PLAINS, NY, June 22, 2006 – By demonstrating compliance with the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organization's national standards for health care quality and safety, Schnurmacher Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing, a member of the Beth Abraham Family of Health Services, has once again earned the Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval™.
“We sought re-accreditation for our organization because we want to emphasize our commitment to residents’ safety and quality care,” says Linda Murray, Administrator for Schnurmacher. Murray praised Schnurmacher employees in working to meet the Joint Commission's benchmarks of quality. “Everyoneworks hard to achieve this recognition. We view obtaining a Joint Commission re-accreditation as another step toward achieving excellence.”
Founded in 1951, the Joint Commission is dedicated to continuously improving the safety and quality of the nation's health care through voluntary accreditation. Schnurmacher received Joint Commission re-accreditation after an on-site review of its long-term care program in February of this year. Only about 950 long-term care organizations have received accreditation nationwide.
"Accreditation standards exceed federal and state requirements," says Marianna Kern Grachek, R.N., executive director, Long Term Care Accreditation Program, Joint Commission. “Furthermore, because this is a voluntary program, accreditation represents Schnurmacher’s decision to be recognized for its efforts to providing safe, quality care.”
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Beth Abraham Family of Health Services
to Honor Local Entrepreneur Steven Squitieri
at the 7th Annual Golf Classic
BRONX, NY, June 10, 2006 – The Beth Abraham Family of Health Services invites our friends and neighbors to join us for our 7th Annual Golf Classic on Monday, July 17, 2006 at Century Country Club & Brae Burn Country Club in Purchase, NY. Sponsored by Amalgamated Bank, this year’sGolf Classic will honor Steven Squitieri, Vice President and Founder of D&J Ambulette Service, Inc. and President of Sanitation Salvage Corp.
“BethAbraham is proud to have Mr. Squitieri as our 2006 Golf Classic Honoree,” states Michael S. Fassler, president and CEO, Beth Abraham Family of Health Services. “We commend Mr. Squitieri for his invaluable leadership and appreciate the contributions he has made to our community.”
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News Archives: 2007