Los Angeles Jewish Home's Blog

Sending Love and Supplies to Children in Need

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 02 Oct 2015 00:05:00 +0000

On a recent August afternoon, the Zuckerman Board Room at Eisenberg Village (EV) was bustling with busy hands and happy hearts. About thirty-five EV residents volunteered their time to be part of an international mitzvah to benefit poor Ethiopian Jewish school children in Haifa, Israel.

An initiative of the Association of Jewish Aging Services (AJAS), Project Avodah, or serving God, is a global effort, partnering AJAS member communities, such as the Los Angeles Jewish Home, with an organization in Haifa. AJAS secured funding to purchase 360 backpacks for the children. The Home stepped up to guarantee 100 of the backpacks would be filled with everything needed to start the school year, including a Jewish calendar, notebook dividers, glue, erasers, scissors, markers, crayons, pencils and pens, zippered pencil cases, pencil sharpeners, small calculators, book covers and name tags.

And the residents? They rolled up their sleeves and got to work. “We have a mitzvah assembly line going,” exclaimed Rabbi Karen Bender, the Home’s director of spiritual life. And so it was, with each person adding their particular item, such a box of colorful markers, to the backpack and passing it on to the next person to add their item. At the end of the line, each backpack was filled with school supplies… and lots of love.

“This is a beautiful thing to do,” said resident Muriel Drucker, “and I’m so happy to be a part of this project.” Myrtle Feenberg expressed her joy in “reaching out across the generations to help young kids.” Rhoda Newman and Joyce Horowitz talked about how they “love volunteering and are happy to do this.”

Their sentiments were echoed by Rabbi Bender, who spoke of the tradition of tzedakah, or charity. “From a Jewish point of view, even someone who is a recipient of tzedakah should give tzedakah. This is a wonderful opportunity for our residents to bring cheer to others, and it gives them a sense of purpose and connection. It’s good for the spiritual health of our residents.”

Thank you to the residents of the Jewish Home for reaching out to the children of Israel with love and compassion.

Generation to Generation Society: Making Waves in the Valley

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 28 Sep 2015 23:33:00 +0000

Delving into cutting edge topics like "How Memory Works in the Brain and How To Make It Work Better, Longer" with internationally recognized speakers, like Dr. Marc Milstein, the Jewish Home's Generation to Generation (G2G) Society offers stimulating gatherings for its members in gratitude for their significant philanthropic investment in the Jewish Home.

On Sunday evening, September 20, Dr. Milstein will be speaking on this topic to our members and guests who might have an interest in learning more about the Generation to Generation Society and perhaps becoming a member. The event will take place in a private home in Encino.

"We're building a community of Valley donors for now and into the future. We enjoy each other's company and like to think we are making a difference in the lives of our Jewish Home's seniors and in the community we serve", says Arthur A. Greenberg, G2G Chair.

Earlier in the summer the group became tourists in their own city by enjoying a docent-led architectural tour of downtown Los Angeles, a tasting of sumptuous Italian wines and a delicious dinner at Drago Centro. The event entitled "An Evening of Good Food & Gratitude", will be an annual complimentary event for members, each year with its own unique twist.

Founded earlier this year, the Generation to Generation Society is the premiere philanthropic venue for Valley based donors who contribute $5,000 or more annually to the Jewish Home through The Executives support group. The Generation to Generation Society honors these individuals, who are committed to helping fulfill the promise to care for our community's precious seniors, in body, mind and spirit.

With 38 founding member households and growing, it is just beginning and welcomes your involvement and participation. For more information on membership or to join us on September 20, contact Lesley Plachta at Lesley.Plachta@jha.org or (818) 774-3282.

The Joyce Eisenberg-Keefer Medical Center Welcomes Jerry Wahagheghe

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 24 Sep 2015 23:06:00 +0000

We are proud to announce Jerry Wahagheghe, R.N. has joined the world-renowned staff at the Los Angeles Jewish Home as the director of nursing for the Joyce Eisenberg-Keefer Medical Center (JEKMC). In his new position, Jerry manages and directs the JEKMC's nursing department and will explore new and more efficient ways to serve our senior community.

Jerry was born and raised in Indonesia, and at the age of 19 decided to relocate to Southern California where he would make a living helping those in need. Through hard work and dedication, Jerry has found much success in nursing. After beginning his career as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) and then a licensed vocational nurse (LVN), Jerry has worked in a variety of capacities within the nursing field, including serving as a charge nurse, nursing supervisor, assistant director of nursing, director of nursing services, and director of clinical services. Along with his distinguished work history at several senior healthcare systems, Jerry's educational background includes an Associate of Science in Nursing and training in licensed vocational nursing from Glendale City College as well as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Phoenix.

Jerry explains how his past experience has benefitted him in his current position as the director of nursing. "I worked my way up the rungs of the career ladder and, in many ways, my previous professions taught me to respect the duties of each nursing position. Now I am able to better understand the work my team performs on a daily basis and act as a more efficient manager."

JEKMC's CEO-Administrator Ilana Grossman agrees. "Jerry's strong body of knowledge and his unique work experience have positioned him to become a wonderful leader and role model for the staff. In the short period of time he's been here, he has made great effort to get to know everyone. We are extremely happy to have Jerry on our team."

From the moment he came on board as the director of nursing, Jerry set his sights on ambitious goals for the future. He plans to help maintain and even improve the high quality of care the Home provides to its seniors. While Jerry settles in to his new position, he is taking the time to appreciate being part of the Jewish Home team.

"I've only been at the Home for a little over a month, but my first impression is it is a wonderful organization. Everything we do as a staff is patient driven. The Home is incredibly different than anywhere I've ever worked before — I can see a huge difference in the way we serve the community with such warmth. We all truly care for the seniors."

The Meaning of the High Holy Days

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 11 Sep 2015 22:25:00 +0000

The High Holy Days begin this year on Sunday, September 13th, with the eve of Rosh Hashanah. Rosh Hashanah comes on Day 1 of the month of Tishre. On Day 10 of the very same month comes Yom Kippur. The eve of Yom Kippur is thus on Tuesday, September 22nd.

But what are these holidays really all about?

We know that in the simplest terms, Rosh Hashanah is the New Year, based upon the birthday of the creation of the world, and Yom Kippur is the Day of Atonement. Yet there is so much more to the holidays than that.

The Rabbis linked the 10 day period between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur and entitled them "The Days of Awe" or "Yamim Hanora'im." For the Jewish People, this has become a period of transformation. In other words, if you went to every service, ate apples and honey on Rosh Hashanah and fasted on Yom Kippur, but you came out of the 10 day period unchanged, then you missed the entire point of the holiday season.

This is best captured in one particular prayer of the High Holy Days. Do you remember the one that says, "On Rosh Hashanah it is written and on Yom Kippur it is sealed, who shall live and who shall die?" That image of a Book of Life is haunting, ridiculous or profound, depending upon how you look at it.

With seniors at the Jewish Home, we talk about how this is not to be taken literally. However, everyone can find great meaning in looking at their past—things that have happened to them and things they have done. Indisputable is the idea that our words and actions are imprinted in history and time. We know what we do and say matters, just as we understand what has been said to us and done to and for us matters. Life is therefore meaningful and we are each impactful, no matter where we live or how often we interact with others.

The Unetaneh Tokef, which is the name of the above prayer, crescendos with some brilliant advice: REPENTANCE, PRAYER and TZEDAKAH can remove the severity of the decree. What does this mean? Regardless of your past, regardless of the wounds you may be living with, regardless of the injuries you may have inflicted on others, hopefully unintentionally, but even intentionally, regardless of your mistakes, your biggest regrets, you can change your future via sincere apology, prayer, introspection and giving of yourself through charity or deeds of loving kindness.

Judaism is so optimistic! Judaism is so healing if we allow its blueprint to guide us toward growth and betterment. The power of the High Holy Days is that we are all in it together. Each of us has our own story, our own pain and our own triumphs. But we trek through this invitation of renewal as a community.

Please consider joining the Jewish Home seniors and staff in celebrating the High Holy Days. Services and holidays meals are open to the community on our Eisenberg Village campus in Reseda. Please contact Allison Tepper at (818) 774-3386 or EVRSVP@jha.org for more information. Tickets are required.

You can also reach out to loved ones with our beautiful holiday card, featuring The Twelve Tribes stained glass created more than a century ago. Please contact Denise Horowitz at (818) 774-3324 or Denise.Horowitz@jha.org to purchase.

From everyone at the Los Angeles Jewish Home, we wish you L'Shanah Tovah!

Save the Date! Celebration of Life: Reflections 2015

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 04 Sep 2015 21:44:00 +0000

On Sunday, November 8, 2015, the Los Angeles Jewish Home will host its annual gala, Celebration of Life: Reflections 2015 honoring its CEO-President, Molly Forrest. Save the date for what promises to be one of the most exciting events of the year! Join in our celebration of Molly's twenty years of outstanding service and the future of the Home under her continued visionary leadership.

Celebration of Life: Reflections 2015 will be held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. The evening will begin with cocktails at 5:30 p.m. followed by dinner and program at 6:30 p.m.

Co-chairs for the gala are Cecilia and Jeffrey Glassman, Lenore and Fred Kayne, and Pam and Mark Rubin. Internationally acclaimed American/Israeli actor and entertainer Mike Burstyn will serve as Emcee with music provided by the Skye Michaels Orchestra.

As always, Celebration of Life: Reflections 2015 brings the community together to celebrate the spirit of philanthropy that makes the Home's life-enhancing programs possible. A highlight of the evening is sure to be the premiere of this year's Jewish Home video, which will feature a retrospective of the accomplishments and expansion of the Home's programs and services over the past twenty years under Molly's guidance, as well as plans to serve even more seniors in need in the future.

For more information about Celebration of Life: Reflections 2015, please contact Corey Slavin atCorey.Slavin@jha.org or (818) 774-3031.

Rabbi Karen Bender Joins the Journey for Justice

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 02 Sep 2015 00:24:00 +0000

This summer, more than 100 rabbis will join the NAACP in the Journey for Justice -- a 860-mile march from Selma, Alabama, to Washington, D.C. The theme of this historic march will focus on the racial inequalities we still face today -- "Our lives, our votes, our jobs, our schools matter."

Today, the Los Angeles Jewish Home's very own Rabbi Karen Bender joined the march.

"50 years ago a Torah accompanied Martin Luther King Jr.'s march for civil rights in Selma, Alabama. When Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel marched with King he said he felt as if he was praying with his feet. In this march, a Torah accompanies the 40 day ‪#‎JourneyforJustice from Selma, AL to Washington, DC. Today, I am praying with my feet in NC just as I use my words and my heart to pray every day for this country to become whole. We can overcome racial hatred and will someday achieve true equality -- not only in the eyes of the law but in the every day interactions of people. On this journey, I've met remarkable people -- I have learned so much from these phenomenal, passionate, life-long activists. I am honored to have participated in this historic march for racial justice."

Hebrew Union College Students Visit the Home

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 31 Aug 2015 22:00:00 +0000

Each summer, Hebrew Union College (HUC) students studying at the Zelikow School of Jewish Nonprofit Management visit Jewish institutions, agencies, and non-profit organizations in the Los Angeles area in a required course called "Introduction to Jewish Communal Institutions." These visits, also known as "Wacky Wednesdays," expose students pursuing careers as Jewish professional leaders to the inner workings of the Jewish non-profit world. On Wednesday, July 15th, the HUC students visited the non-profit Jewish Home's Eisenberg Village campus, met with our corporate officers, and toured of our award-winning facilities.

After CEO-president Molly Forrest welcomed the students, the officers — chief financial officer Sherri Cunningham, chief medical officer Dr. Noah Marco, vice president of planning and community-based services Arnold Possick, and Jewish Home Foundation senior vice president Ira Schreck — offered their perspectives about what makes the Home so special. They discussed the behind the scenes work that goes into ensuring seniors receive quality care, working with the government to receive funding, enhancing community awareness of the Home's services, and ongoing fundraising efforts. Forrest explained there is more to the Home than its campuses. "Aside from being an outstanding source of senior housing in Los Angeles, the Home strives to meet the growing need for senior care within the community. We provide quality care to over 5,000 seniors in our Home and in their own homes each year."

The group was then taken on a tour led by fund development staff member Aaron Levinson (an HUC class of '95 alumnus). As Levinson guided the students through the Home's incredible medical, residential, and community buildings, they were able to see how the Home's staff, leaders, donors, and volunteers worked together to make the Home the incredible place that it is.

Levinson commented on the importance of the visit. "These students are the future leaders of Jewish non-profits and it is imperative they understand how this remarkable organization cares for so many of our community's seniors."

Associate director of the School of Jewish Nonprofit Management Mandi Richardson expressed her gratitude for the presentation and the tour. "Thanks to experiences like this, the students are exposed to both the possibilities and realities they might encounter in their professional lives. The students and I are appreciative for the chance to learn from the exceptional staff of the Los Angeles Jewish Home."

Residents Enjoy Films at the Laemmle Theater

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 21 Aug 2015 23:22:00 +0000

Greg Laemmle, Molly Forrest, and the Home's seniors gather
outside of the Encino Laemmle Theater.

Movies and popcorn. A classic pastime. And, for many of us, it's an integral part of life's enjoyments. Thanks to the efforts of Greg Laemmle, residents from the Los Angeles Jewish Home now enjoy films — as well as popcorn and a soft drink — in the Encino Laemmle Theater.

"This is a generation that remembers going to the movies," said Greg Laemmle of the famed Laemmle family. "Going to the theater was a very special experience. It was a weekly occurrence — if not more often — they remember doing for most of their lives." Laemmle has made sure this enriching experience is still very much part of life for seniors at the Jewish Home by opening the doors of the Laemmle Theatre to the Home's seniors at very agreeable rates.

"We try to give back to the community. One way is to make going to the movies accessible for seniors.

Our overall philosophy is to keep pricing low so more in the community can enjoy going out to see movies in a theater. This keeps the theater experience accessible to our community's seniors," added Laemmle.

According to Jewish Home CEO Molly Forrest, "75% of Jewish Home residents rely upon Medi-Cal. Low income seniors are often on very tight budgets and don't have discretionary funds for going to the movies and other social activities. Through the generosity of Greg Laemmle, many of our residents are enjoying the movies!"

This is particularly important for Jewish Home residents who are considered "Medically Needy Only." Forrest explains, "These seniors, who are on government assistance, only receive $20 per month as a personal allowance. $20 needs to cover a wide range of necessities including over the counter drugs, clothing, personal items such as hearing aid batteries, shampoo, Kleenex and other such items. Obviously $20 cannot cover basic necessities much less pay for telephone service, beauty/barber service or an occasional lunch out or movie going experience."

Getting out into the community for social occasions is beneficial for the well-being of seniors. At all ages, it is important to stay active, socialize and enjoy stimulating activities. Resident Priscilla Siegel concurs. "This is excellent! What a wonderful idea. Movies are a great escape from everyday life. It is also a way to see different ways of living."

"I've lived in this community for more than 40 years," explained resident Jeanette Crane. "This theater is like home to me! I love film and enjoy being able to still see movies here."

Activities Director Caryl Geiger notes that "the residents always come away from the movie experience with divergent views and lively discussions."

Jewish Home resident Rhoda Newman sums it up best, "I really look forward to going to the theater. It is a great form of entertainment."

The Joyce Eisenberg Keefer Medical Center Centenarian Club

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 14 Aug 2015 00:21:00 +0000

We are proud to announce that 19 of our 239 residents living at the Joyce Eisenberg Keefer Medical Center at LAJH are 100 years of age or older. Six of these centenarians are 100 years of age and include Albert Weber, Vivian Toplinski, Pearl Pondel, Ben Weisel, Helen Jacobs and Rose Pomonik. Five members of the group are 101 years of age: Kate Tobias, Gertie Tennenbaum, Faye Dragon, Annette Halpern, and Dorothy Goldman. Two of the centenarians are 102: Maria Rosenstein and Michael Shiller. The four centenarians who are 103 are Ana Parker, Estelle Curtis, Frederika Frank and Morris Steinberg. Our 104 year old is Marion Stern.

The final member of the group is our 105 year old, the magnificent Edna Shankman. Edna was visited this past week by a small group of relatives who flew in from the east coast to celebrate her 105th birthday with cupcakes, kisses, flowers, and balloons! Edna was presented with three certificates from the mayor and city councilman’s representatives. She was smiling and joking with everyone, thrilled that her family was all there to celebrate her special day.

Over the years, this group of sage seniors have shared many words of wisdom with us. Here are a few of our favorites: Stay young at heart and try new things like yoga classes and tai chi and other things that improve your balance and make you stronger. Don’t worry so much, just try to live and go with the flow. Eat good food, not too much junk. Sleep and have sex. Move and exercise every day. Make friends. Keep in touch with the outside world so you don’t get lonely. Remember to laugh and don’t take yourself too seriously. Learn how to use the internet! And last but not least, believe, have faith, and pray for the best.

Devorah Small-Teyer, M.S.W., A.C.S.W.

Director of Social Services

Joyce Eisenberg Keefer Medical Center

Save the Date for the Walk of Ages XVI

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 12 Aug 2015 00:26:00 +0000

The Los Angeles Jewish Home's sixteenth annual Walk of Ages will be held at Woodley Park on Sunday, November 15th, 2015. Members of the community will gather in the park for a morning of fitness, friends, and fun — all to support the seniors of the Jewish Home.

Exercise enthusiasts rejoice — this year, we've added a 10k! For those who have completed 5k races in the past, this is your chance to push yourself to new limits and take a crack at the brand new 6.2 mile course. Walk of Ages co-chair Stuart Lorch feels the 10k is an excellent addition to the popular event. "For the first time in 16 years, we are bringing a 10k race to the Walk of Ages. We want to make supporting the Home accessible to participants of all physical abilities. We are confident this new race will help to draw in passionate athletes who don't usually attend the shorter 5k races."

Registration fees for individuals are $36 for adults (13-79), $18 for children (0-12), and free for seniors (80+). Registration fees will be waived for participants who raise $100 or more by November 9th. All participants will receive a Walk t-shirt. Children, seniors, and the top three finishers in each age and gender division will receive a medallion.

Walkers and runners can now set up their own customizable individual and team fundraising pages and ask their family and friends to help them reach their fundraising goals using the convenient online donation feature. Top fundraisers will take home exciting prizes based on the amount of money they raise.

Break out your sneakers and join us on November 15th. Whether you choose to walk, run, fundraise, support, cheer, or volunteer, your participation will help to make a difference in lives of our community's seniors.

For more information and to sign up for the Walk of Ages, click here or contact Denise Horowitz at (818) 774-3324 orDenise.Horowitz@jha.org

Wish of a Lifetime Reunites Cousins

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 31 Jul 2015 23:48:00 +0000

Jewish Home resident Ernie Braunstein, age 91, was born in Germany. Many of his childhood memories include his cousin, Lilly. During World War II, Ernie was sent to a labor camp before being moved to a concentration camp. In 1945 when World War II ended, Ernie began to search for Lilly. He found her in Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, which had been liberated by the British. The two would then go their separate ways: Lilly to Israel, where she still lives today, and Ernie to Los Angeles, where his brother lived. They would each go on to marry, have children, and live meaningful lives. The cousins saw each other several times over the years. The last visit was when Lilly flew to the US for the joyous occasion of the bar mitzvah of Ernie's grandson. Since then, Ernie had been hoping they would be able to see each other again.

Enter Wish of a Lifetime (WOL), a non-profit organization that grants wishes for senior citizens. Elderly men and women often have something in their life they have always wanted to do or see, but for many different reasons they are unable to live out those dreams. The WOL foundation wish fulfillment program aims to change that by creating opportunities to ensure each of these very special wishes can come true.

Ernie's daughter, Gilda Evans, learned about WOL and contacted them with her father's wish: to see his cousin Lilly again. The organization was very receptive and initially offered to make his wish come true by bringing Lilly to Los Angeles. It turned out that Ernie's wish was the 1,000th to be granted.

When Ernie learned Lilly was unable to travel, he was heartbroken; WOL was undaunted. Instead, they offered to fly Ernie and Gilda to Israel via El Al to reunite with Lilly. "El Al knew I was coming," exclaims Ernie. "There was a photographer there at the airport, waiting to take my picture." Once on board, the special treatment continued. "The flight attendants couldn't do enough for me," says Ernie. "Every two hours they got me up to take a walk on the plane." Upon arrival, they were once again greeted with photographers as well as a TV crew. Ernie, now with Lilly by his side, was interviewed by a Russian station. That night, the family watched the interview together on TV.

During Ernie's time in Israel, WOL made sure he had everything he needed: a beautiful hotel (two doors down from Lilly's home), wonderful meals, a tour of Jerusalem, a trip to Tel Aviv. One night Ernie, Gilda and Lilly were dinner guests at the home of the mayor of Jerusalem, Nir Barkat. Many meals were shared at Lilly's home so she could make Ernie all of his favorite foods. The two spent hours catching up and sharing family stories and memories.

When the family visited the Western Wall, a kind stranger offered to take Ernie to the men's section. He got a chair for Ernie so he could sit and be comfortable. People were handing their kvitels (prayers or requests written on small pieces of paper) to Ernie to place in the Wall. "This gentleman took one of my kvitels and placed it high up on the Wall, closer to God," Ernie recalls. (It turns out this kind stranger is a makeup artist in Hollywood, and put Gilda in touch with someone at the Jerusalem Post. The reporter wrote a wonderful article about WOL and Ernie's visit.) Another stranger was praying and took Ernie's hand to pray with him. On his way out, Ernie stopped to give charity to a rabbi.

Sooner than anyone could believe, it was time for Ernie and Gilda to return home. "I've been to Israel a few times, but I can't explain this trip," says Ernie. "To see my cousin again was my greatest wish. And to see what was once a desert is now a beautiful town…it's amazing! I can't express the feeling!"

Shortly after his return, Ernie received a call from WOL inviting him to speak at their annual gala in Denver. Once again, Ernie and Gilda were jetting away, this time to share their story with people who had helped make Ernie's wish come true. "Ladies and gentlemen, I thank you for letting me have my wish come true," Ernie said to the crowd. "In my religion, when we have a special occasion we tell each other you should live to be 120. I wish you health, I wish you wealth, and I wish you live to 120." Afterwards people were lining up to take a photo with Ernie, and ladies of all ages were filling up his dance card.

In Ernie's words, "It was an amazing experience."

He has shared his Survivor story with many and currently leads the Home's Survivor Group at Eisenberg Village. Mazal tov to Ernie on the granting of his wish of a lifetime…a wonderful gift for a true mensch.

MNO Update - AB 1319 Moves on to Appropriations Committee

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 28 Jul 2015 22:48:00 +0000

On July 9th, AB 1319 (Medically Needy Program Extension) was passed unanimously by the Senate Health Committee. The bill will be presented at the Senate Appropriations Committee meeting on August 17th. Visit the California Legislative site and enter "1319" in the quick search box on the upper right hand corner for the latest updates on this bill.

Associates-IMC to Bestow Honors at Tree of Life Luncheon

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 24 Jul 2015 23:35:00 +0000

With summer already here, Associates-IMC, the premier women's support group of the Jewish Home, has been busily planning for its 85th Tree of Life Luncheon to be held on Tuesday, August 18, at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. Two exceptional individuals, whose commitment to the Home and Jewish community is unparalleled, will be honored: Diane Miller will receive the Zelda White "Woman of the Year" Achievement Award, and Rick Bender will be recognized with this year's Humanitarian Award.

As a prelude to the August fundraiser, a beautiful afternoon reception was recently held at the home of Earl Greinetz, one of the organization's fundraising vice presidents. Board members and friends had an opportunity to congratulate each of the honorees. After Florence Gorlin, luncheon chair, welcomed everyone and thanked the honorees for their dedication, she shared the many reasons why Diane and Rick are so deserving of their honors.

At the Jewish Home, Diane has served as president of The Associates and founded Operation Friendship, the group's foremost resident-involved program. She currently serves as Parliamentarian of the board of directors of Associates-IMC. Diane also chairs the organization's Author's Day program and the annual Installation Luncheon.

Rick has served on the board of directors of the Home since 1978 and currently serves as vice-chair of the Home's budget & finance committee. He has also served as president of The Guardians, another long-standing support group of the Jewish Home. In addition, Rick was instrumental in the formation of the Home's Marilyn & Monty Hall Statesman's Society.

The Tree of Life Luncheon will begin at 10:00 a.m. with a multi-vendor boutique and Opportunity Drawing. At noon, the doors of the Beverly Hills Ballroom will open, and guests will be invited to take their seats in the stunningly decorated venue. Following a welcome by president Madeleine Rosenberg and a Jewish Home update from CEO-President Molly Forrest, lunch will be served. Entertainment will be performed by pianist and vocalist Larry Lederman.

Honorary chairs of the event include Rabbi Ed Feinstein, Marion Goldenfeld, Sandy and Bill Goodglick, Joyce Eisenberg-Keefer & Mel Keefer, Evy Lutin, Malkah Schulweis, Edna Weiss, Drs. Hannah and Robert Wexler, and Rabbi David Wolpe.

Event chairs for the luncheon are Terri Bloomgarden, Joy Brook, Roberta Delevie, Earl Greinetz, Claire Kunin, Linda Matloff, Nancy Salka, Melinda Seltzer, Sandra Stackler, and Gloria Stoddard.

By attending the Tree of Life Luncheon and/or purchasing a tribute journal ad or sponsorship opportunity, you will be sustaining the thousands of seniors the Home serves each year through its extraordinary continuum of care.

Associates-IMC extends its gratitude to Joyce Eisenberg-Keefer and Mel Keefer for underwriting this year's luncheon.

We welcome your support and hope you will contact the Associates-IMC office at 818-774-3375 orDebbie.Fishel@jha.org for additional information.

Telling Your Story: A Way to Cope and Share Memories

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 21 Jul 2015 23:26:00 +0000

Over the years, healthcare professionals, especially those who work in end-of-life care, have tried a variety of therapies to help people cope with the reality of their death. Dr. Harvey Chochinov, a psychiatrist at the University of Manitoba, did extensive studies to determine what troubled people most about dying. The answer he found: the idea that they would cease to exist after their death. To address this fear, Dr. Chochinov created Dignity Therapy, an opportunity for the dying to assert themselves by telling the story of their life.

Dr. Chochinov compiled a list of questions designed to help the person focus on the story they wanted to tell, such as:

What parts of your life do you remember most or think are most important?
When did you feel most alive?
What are the most important roles you have played in your life?
Are there particular things you feel need to be said to your loved ones?
What are your hopes and dreams for your loved ones?

After the interview, a document would be presented to the family; in some cases, an audio transcription would be recorded. Their loved one's words would live on forever.

At the Jewish Home's Skirball Hospice, a similar program began in 2014. Led by volunteer coordinator Lee Rothman, M. Ed., M.A., Skirball Hospice offers their patients the opportunity to create a life review video. Using Dr. Chochinov's questions as a guide, the patient is filmed talking about their life experience and sharing their most precious thoughts. "We find the questions are helpful for most people," explains Lee. "For others, they have a particular story they want to tell."

Family members are encouraged to share photos that can be incorporated into the video. The final version is copied to a DVD and/or thumb drive and given to the family.

On her 93rd birthday, Anne Stern (of blessed memory) shared her life story on video. In preparation for filming, her daughter, Joan, went through a lifetime of photos with Anne. "We looked though the photos and talked about the people in them and the events taking place" says Joan. "My husband and I watched the video at my mother's bedside during her last days. Though she wasn't awake, I feel as if she may have been listening." Since then, Joan has shared the video with family and close friends. "The video is a priceless gift of memories to cherish always, and also gave me more insight into my mother's experiences and how they shaped her. I am so grateful to Skirball Hospice for making this opportunity possible."

"With each family we are learning more about what is meaningful at the end of life and how the process can help families grow closer and potentially heal old wounds before their loved one dies," says Lee. "Each video is unique to the person telling their story."

According to Dr. Ira Byock, a pioneer in the field of palliative medicine and hospice care in the United States, we can view the time at the end of life as a developmental stage, such as adolescence or mid-life. According to Dr. Byock, "This developmental crisis, this notion that life is coming to an end, has lots of capacity for suffering, but there is obviously a capacity to grow from this experience, too." Lee would like to think "the life review video project gives the patient and their family a chance to grow and heal until the end of life."

The life review video team is made up of a staff member (spiritual counselor, social worker or volunteer) who is close to the patient, a volunteer videographer and volunteer film editor. "We greatly appreciate our volunteers for playing such a big part in making this special memory possible," says Lee.

For more information about volunteering with Skirball Hospice or the life review video program, please contact Lee Rothman, volunteer coordinator, at Lee.Rothman@jha.org or (818) 774-3040.

MNO Update - Bill 1319 Passes Through the Health Committee!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 13 Jul 2015 18:54:00 +0000

Assembly Bill 1319 (Medically Needy Program Extension) passed another hurdle and was approved by the Senate’s Health Committee! With the approval of just one more committee, our bill will be in the hands of Governor Jerry Brown. Thank you for all of your support – we are so close to our goal of significantly improving the lives of California’s Medically Needy seniors.

Stay tuned for further updates!

Red Hat Society 2015 Barbecue

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 02 Jul 2015 21:07:00 +0000

On Tuesday, June 2nd, over 100 members of Eisenberg Village's Shayna Punim chapter of the Red Hat Society assembled in Bagno Park for a barbecue. The annual event, sponsored by Gerrie Wormser and John N. Levi, Jr., was the largest gathering of the Home's Red Hat Society chapter on record.

Decorations in red and purple — the society's colors — adorned tables and chairs. Gorgeous edible centerpieces of sweet seasonal berries, grapes, and plums ornamented each table. Jewish rock group YA'ALEH took the stage and performed original Hebrew songs inspired by liturgical texts as well as classic favorites like Let it Be and Hey Jude. Society members enjoyed the backyard barbeque staples of pink lemonade, iced tea, potato chips, beef ribs, hot dogs, and hamburgers, along with all the traditional condiments and toppings.

After lunch, attendees enjoyed a beautiful dance recital performed by three members of the City Ballet of Los Angeles while indulging in delectable miniature cakes. On their way out, guests took turns posing for pictures with fun props in a photo booth.

Eisenberg Village resident Esther Berlin is quite a fan of the Red Hat Society events. "When they do something right, they sure do it right," says Esther. "I've been at the Jewish Home for the past 12 years and I've always attended Red Hat events. Every party has been better than the last. Gerrie and John always arrange for us to have the best entertainment and the best food at the best venues. It's wonderful!"

For Gerrie, sponsoring Red Hat events is an incredibly rewarding experience. "I started getting involved with the Red Hat Society over a decade ago. Each year, we all look forward to getting together and enjoying each other's company. Organizing these events for the residents brings me so much joy. I feel great when I see them having such a good time."

Please click here to view photos from the 2015 Red Hat Society Barbecue.

Special thanks to Gerrie Wormser, John N. Levi, Jr., YA'ALEH, the City Ballet of Los Angeles, the Jewish Home's dietary and housekeeping departments, and our community volunteers for making this event such an incredible success.

Staff Appreciation Week 2015

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 26 Jun 2015 23:34:00 +0000

From May 15th to May 21st the Jewish Home staff, residents, and visitors celebrated Staff Appreciation Week. Employees from all of the Home's facilities were encouraged to join this week of food, friends, and fun at the Grancell and Eisenberg Village Campuses. Events included a carne asada luau barbecue, instant recess, delightful pancake breakfast, variety show, and Employee Recognition Ceremony.

The employee variety show was a highlight of the week. Fantastic dancers stunned audiences with Santa Rita Bailable, traditional Indian, Cha-Cha, Hawaiian, modern hip hop, retro rock and roll, Bollywood Bhangra, and Flamenco dance performances. Employees also performed routines to Be Our Guest from Beauty and the Beast, Don't Go Breaking My Heart by Elton John and Kiki Dee, Uptown Funk by Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars, Shake it Off by Taylor Swift, Lazy by Bruno Mars, as well as the theme songs to The Addams Family and The Brady Bunch. A talented staff member sang the American and Israeli national anthems, while another employee sang and played Iridescent Eyes, an original song. Other groups wowed spectators with an exhilarating drum drill and an amusing game show skit.

Staff Appreciation Week concluded with the Employee Recognition Ceremony. Outstanding employees were showered in applause and appreciation for all of the contributions they've made to the Home over the years. Long standing staff members who have been working with the Home for 5, 10, 13, 15, 20, 25, and 40 years were honored for their diligence within the community. Preselected staff members were welcomed to the Jewish Home Home Team, a special team of 160 employees recognized by peers, visitors, and families for their outstanding contributions to the Home.

As the Home's staff members revert to their normal work schedules after a multitude of shared meals, exciting events, and fun festivities, they do so with a sense of joy and pride knowing their hard work makes a difference within the Jewish Home's community. Vice President of human resources Sharon Ginchansky commented on the importance of this celebratory week, "Staff Appreciation Week is the one week we shine the spotlight on our staff's commitment to excellence as well as the passion and pride they exude in their daily duties. It's an honor to celebrate the achievements of our peers and to give our thanks to the people who make the Home the wonderful place it is."

Please click here to view photos from Staff Appreciation Week 2015.

Special thanks to the Home's Human Resources, Dietary, Housekeeping, and Maintenance Departments for working so hard to make sure this week of festivities was an incredible success.

MNO Update - Bill 1319 Moves on to the Senate!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 22 Jun 2015 23:56:00 +0000

NEWS UPDATE: Assembly Bill 1319 (Medically Needy Program Extension) was passed unanimously by the Assembly on June 1st. In the coming days, Bill 1319 will be voted on by the Senate.

Visit the California Legislative site for updates on AB 1319. To those of you who have become advocates of the Medically Needy seniors of California – thank you for all of your support. We are half way there!

Luncheon Honors Jewish Home Legacy Circle Members

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 19 Jun 2015 23:44:00 +0000

Nearly 100 members of the Legacy Circle of the Los Angeles Jewish Home gathered on May 21 at the Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills for the annual Legacy Circle luncheon.

The Legacy Circle is comprised of individuals who have made provisions in their estate plans for the Home. Naming the Jewish Home in their estate plans helps ensure its future for generations to come.

Each year significant funds come to the Jewish Home from legacy gifts. Although many of these donors choose to be anonymous, members of the Legacy Circle set a standard that others emulate, helping to secure the future of our Home. Regardless of size, or how they are legally and technically structured, it is these gifts which communicate these donors' personal legacy: their values, priorities, and inspirations. Hosting the annual luncheon is the Home's way to thank generous individuals.

The Home's CEO-President Molly Forrest provided guests with an informative update on the state of healthcare in America. The keynote address was presented by the Jewish Home's Jack H. Skirball Director of Spiritual Life, Rabbi Karen Bender, who noted she is learning from those in attendance, since they have all followed many mitzvot through their plans and remarkable generosity.

For more information about the Home's Legacy Circle, please contact Aaron Levinson, planned giving officer, at (818) 757-4416 or Aaron.Levinson@jha.org.

Music Opens Doors To Memories

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 13 Jun 2015 00:08:00 +0000

Have you ever heard a favorite song from your distant past and immediately felt like you were taken back in time? You could see the people you were with and remember what you were doing, maybe what you were wearing, as the music played. You actually feel — mentally and physically — like you are there in that long ago moment. How can that possibly happen?

Current research finds our brains are actually hard-wired to connect music with long-term memory. According to the non-profit organization MUSIC & MEMORY^®, even persons with severe dementia can tap deep emotional recall. Favorite music or songs associated with important personal events can trigger memory of lyrics and the experience connected to the music. Beloved music often calms chaotic brain activity and enables the listener to focus on the present moment and regain a connection to others.

Founded by executive director Dan Cohen, MSW, in 2006, MUSIC & MEMORY^® has a simple goal: to provide new and used iPods to nursing homes so each resident can enjoy music personalized for them. In 2012, a documentary about the program, Alive Inside: A Story of Music and Memory, helped greatly in boosting awareness and interest in the benefits of music related to memory.

The organization's ongoing research and evaluation shows consistent results:

Residents are happier and more social.
Relationships among staff, residents and family deepen.
Everyone benefits from a calmer, more supportive social environment.
Staff regain valuable time previously lost to behavior management issues.
There is growing evidence that a personalized music program gives

professionals one more tool in their effort to reduce reliance on anti-psychotic

medications.

The Los Angeles Jewish Home is happy to announce our participation in the MUSIC & MEMORY^® certification program. With trainings taking place for staff of the Home's skilled nursing facilities, Brandman Centers for Senior Care (BCSC), and Skirball Hospice, we will be initiating MUSIC & MEMORY^® across our campuses and in the community. Approximately 25 employees are participating in the training, which includes a series of three 90-minute webinars, taught by founder Dan Cohen. The webinars provide instruction on creating an iTunes library, managing resident playlists, handling equipment and security concerns, integrating digital music into daily care plans, and evaluating the program's effectiveness.

After certification, the Home will receive one year of coaching support from MUSIC & MEMORY^® to ensure success of the program and ten iPods with headphones. Additional iPods will be purchased and/or donated, both new and gently used.

Rolling out the program across the Home began with the BCSC team. Susie Fishenfeld, executive director of BCSC, previously experienced the MUSIC & MEMORY^® program and knew the impact it can have on seniors as well as their families and caregivers. "Our goal at BCSC is for our participants to enjoy increased stimulation and activity. We also believe it will be a way to bring families and caregivers closer with participants through sharing the music they love and the memories it brings."

Timothy Carlson, RN, resource clinical advisor for the Jewish Home, is serving as the point person for MUSIC & MEMORY^® in other areas of the Home, including skilled nursing and Alzheimer's and dementia care. "This is a powerful program to enrich the lives, move the spirits, and stimulate the minds of the cherished seniors we care for at the Home," Tim explains. "Music moves us all, and the MUSIC & MEMORY^® program brings this truth front and center."

The Home's Skirball Hospice is also participating in the certification. "We will begin our training this month," says Lee Rothman, volunteer coordinator for Hospice and point person for this project. "We will initially introduce the program to our patients who have a diagnosis of Alzheimer's with dementia, which currently is about one-third of the individuals we serve. We are excited to be involved in this program with the goal of improving the quality of life for our patients and their families."

"We are pleased to provide MUSIC & MEMORY^® in addition to all the amazing and innovative programs we offer at the Jewish Home," says Tim.

We will be bringing you updates about the program as it is implemented throughout the Home. Check out future issues of e-News and Jewish Home News for the latest information.

Auerbach Geriatric Psychiatry Unit Welcomes New Director

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 05 Jun 2015 18:33:00 +0000

The Los Angeles Jewish Home is proud to welcome Heather Hendrick, MSN, as program director of the Auerbach Geriatric Psychiatry Unit (AGPU). Located in the Joyce Eisenberg-Keefer Medical Center (JEKMC) on the Home's Grancell Village Campus, AGPU provides short-term in-patient psychiatric care.

Heather, a board certified registered nurse, has over 15 years of progressive experience in an acute care setting. Her leadership roles, including lead crisis RN and program manager, have resulted in her depth of knowledge regarding the complexity of patient care and healthcare administration.

Prior to the Jewish Home, Heather was employed at Northridge Hospital Medical Center for eight years. As inpatient program manager, her duties included supervision and teaching of the medical center's Pro-Act (professional assault crisis training) class as part of employee orientation. Heather then served as nurse clinician for the partial hospitalization program, which allows individuals to commute to the center for treatment of mental health issues and remain living at home. In that position, she was a key member of the acute mental health team of medical professionals providing leadership and management of staff. Working with psychiatrists, Heather developed comprehensive treatment plans for patients diagnosed with a range of illnesses including intense depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance abuse and severe anxiety.

"I am very excited to be part of the Jewish Home," says Heather. "As program director for AGPU, my goals are simple: to provide the best care for our patients and to create a great environment for our staff to excel, to be empowered to make a difference in the lives of our seniors."

"In searching for the right person to serve as program director of AGPU, we focused on finding a manager who is aligned with our mission and values," explains Ilana Grossman, CEO/Administrator of JEKMC. "We also wanted someone who could partner with our hospital leadership in positioning our program for future growth. Heather brings a combination of strong clinical and leadership management skills, along with a warmth and a commitment to create a safe, quality healing environment for our seniors."

Heather received her Masters of Science in Nursing with specialization in leadership and management from Walden University in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

On behalf of the Los Angeles Jewish Home, we welcome Heather and look forward to working together to improve the health of our seniors.

Virtual Bowling Strikes at Fountainview

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 29 May 2015 23:53:00 +0000

Fountainview at Eisenberg Village is home to more than one hundred thirty active seniors with independent lifestyles. A handful of these spirited seniors recently became enamored with an incredibly trendy activity: fitness gaming.

Wii Sports is an interactive video game that lets players virtually partake in activities such as golf, tennis, baseball, boxing, and bowling. Because these sports are solely based in the virtual world, they allow the player to enjoy the sport without leaving the comfort and safety of their own homes. Just like in real life, these simulated sports provide gamers with an outlet for physical activity and friendly camaraderie.

Of all the activities offered in the Wii Sports repertoire, bowling has emerged as the clear favorite among Fountainview residents. With Wii bowling, seniors can attain the nostalgic feeling of playing the classic sport with a simple swing of the arm.

Fountainview director of resident services Shelley Smilen explains, "Wii Sports is an incredible tool for seniors. Our residents can forget about the hassles of driving down to the bowling alley, lugging around heavy balls, and wearing slippery shoes. Instead, they can take a short two minute walk to the Creative Arts Studio, grab a Wii Remote and play a few frames while catching up with teammates. This low-impact activity is a great way for our seniors to exercise and to participate in a sport they might not have normally been physically able to do."

Wii Bowling also gives participants another way to socialize with others in the community. The Fountainview Bowling Team often attends Wii Bowling tournaments at neighboring senior communities, where the proud members of the Fountainview Bowling Team don their neon green polo shirts and put on game faces.

Ninety-two-year-old Fountainview resident and bowling enthusiast Sam Berman takes each game very seriously. After an incredible amount of practice and real life experience, Sam has mastered Wii Bowling. In fact, he's thrown so many strikes he almost always bowls a perfect game. To date, Sam has bowled 62 perfect games, but he's still looking for new ways to win. "I'm constantly testing out new techniques," says Sam. "For example, I'll try putting a fresh spin on the ball or holding the Wii Remote in a different position. The way I see it, there's always room for improvement."

Whenever Sam sees his friends are in need of a little guidance, he is ready to lend a helping hand. On one occasion, a team member became frustrated with a poor score. Sam stepped in and offered a suggestion on how to position his virtual character in order to bowl more successfully. Sure enough, on his next try, the teammate managed to bowl a strike. Sam congratulated his peer with an enthusiastic pat on the back. Sam exclaimed, "You got it! I knew you had it in you!"

Wii Bowling is just one of the many engaging activities and programs residents can choose. Fountainview's active seniors also enjoy exciting games of poker and bridge, thought provoking discussions and lessons, challenging salsa and ballroom dancing classes, and much more.

To meet Fountainview residents and experience their active lifestyle firsthand, join us for a tour. Make your reservation today by contacting the Fountainview marketing department at 818.654.5550.

The Healing Power of Touch

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 26 May 2015 23:36:00 +0000

Stop for one moment and think about all the ways you have physically touched — or been touched by — someone recently. Perhaps it was a warm hug from an old friend, holding hands with that special someone, or a caring arm around your shoulder. It could even be a friendly handshake with someone new or an enthusiastic high five with a co-worker. Think about those moments and how they made you feel. Cared for ... loved … comforted … connected ... happy.

Touch is a powerful healing tool. The casual or affectionate touches we experience go a long way to improve our mental and physical health. When we are touched in a positive way, our bodies release oxytocin, also known as the love hormone, and decrease the release of cortisol, the stress hormone. This can lower blood pressure, lessen stress and anxiety, and decrease the symptoms of depression, such as fatigue and irritability. Your immune system can benefit as well, and your risk of heart disease can go down.

"Today's doctors have many tools that give them significant information about their patients; in fact, you can be anywhere in the world and still receive this info," says Dr. Noah Marco, chief medical officer for the Jewish Home. "Yet what modern medicine is in danger of losing is one of the most powerful tools in healthcare: the healing nature of human touch. When I touch my patients, I believe I am conveying to them that I am present with them to help them through their journey."

The same benefits hold true for the healing touch we receive when we get a massage. In addition to all the benefits a casual touch brings, a professional massage can also relieve physical pain and decrease autoimmune illnesses, such as lupus and arthritis. On an emotional level, massage can help you cope during a troubling time and help you deal with the effects of a past trauma.

Another simple way to enjoy a healing touch is by making an appointment with your hairdresser or barber. Yes, just sitting down in that chair is the beginning of some well-deserved and oxytocin-producing happy time. From the shampoo, which hopefully includes an invigorating scalp massage, to the blowout, a marvelous combination of the sensations of brushing and warmth, the experience is guaranteed to lift and calm your spirits. And, as an extra added benefit, you feel refreshed and ready to face the world.

At the Jewish Home, many of our residents have regular standing appointments at our beauty salons. The desire to look our best is part of our psyche at any age, and the healing power of our hairdressers is bountiful.

For resident Esther Weiss, 93, a visit to the Eisenberg Village beauty salon is a regular treat she enjoys tremendously. "When I was younger, I had a standing appointment with my hairdresser each week," she says. "Having a salon here on campus helps me easily continue that routine, and it's so important. Some of us may have forgotten the joys of "special" appointments. It makes me feel good…still young, still beautiful."

Fred White, 86, also enjoys his regular visit with barber Hershel Smuckler. "It's relaxing, and I feel great when I leave!" Herschel has been cutting hair at the Home since he retired 18 years ago. "It gives me great pleasure to make the residents feel and look good."

Ninety-seven year old Evelyn Lipka appreciates the transformative experience of a visit to the salon. "When I come out of the shop, I feel like a new person," she says. "I feel good about myself and it lifts my spirits."

Hairdresser Ana Servin has been pampering the ladies, and some of the gentlemen, of the Home for 29 years. "I feel blessed to be able to show our residents some love, and it also makes me feel good. We all need it, especially as we get older."

The Jewish Home thanks all of our wonderful hairdressers for showing such care and compassion for our residents:

Vallada Bakaitis / Tamara Chizhik / Riva Lerman

Hershel Smuckler / Ana Servin / Myriam Stanley

And remember … share a healing touch with someone every day! It's good for them, and good for you.

Bridging the Generational Divide

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 15 May 2015 23:04:00 +0000

On Friday, March 13th, a group of Eisenberg Village seniors embarked on a short trip to Cleveland Charter High School (CCHS) to take part in one of the school's long-running traditions: Adopt-a-Grandparent Day. From the moment the residents arrived on the CCHS campus, they were warmly received by dozens of smiling students, eager to take part in the festivities.

Each senior was assigned to a group of students who would be their adopted grandchildren. Principal Cindy Duong warmly welcomed the seniors to the school. "Thank you all for joining us for this special event. Senior citizens have a lifetime of experience to share with our youth. For many of our students, chance interactions with seniors are few and far between. Each year, we host Adopt-a-Grandparent Day to give our students the chance to connect with you, as well as to give you an opportunity to forge a lifelong connection with some of the younger members in this community. We hope this program can offer new insights and help to bridge the gap between your generations."

The seniors and their newly adopted grandchildren were then given questionnaire forms to facilitate meaningful interaction. The groups discussed their family backgrounds, heritage, customs, memories, experiences, accomplishments, and interests.

The students wowed residents with a variety of performances. From Bollywood dancing and ukulele playing, to pop and lock dance routines and a drill and band performance, the students pulled out all the stops to ensure the seniors thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Each student also donated a homemade dish to share with the guests. As the seniors chose from a wide array of offerings, students helped by serving them the delicious dishes.

At the end of a very eventful day, Assistant Principal Stephanie Slaughter concluded the ceremony with a short closing statement. "We have hosted the Adopt-a-Grandparent program at Cleveland Charter School for more than two decades. Every year, we bring in seniors from the community so they can share their stories with our students, and our students can share theirs as well. We put on this event because we want these teenagers to understand and appreciate the important contributions made by our elders. Thank you."

In clear summation of the importance of the event, Principal Duong underlined the fact that these types of intergenerational interactions are necessary to strengthen the sense of community. "For our seniors, talking to a younger person is a welcome change of pace and a breath of fresh air. For the youngsters, the valuable lessons afforded by the seniors are a vital part in their upbringing."

"This wonderful event gives the youth the opportunity to show their appreciation for our community's seniors," Eisenberg Village activities director Caryl Geiger says. "It's touching to see how the seniors react to the compassion and genuine interest the students show them. Our residents simply glow with appreciation and joy."

Jewish Home resident Ernie Braunstein summed it up best: "I look forward to this event every year. Having the chance to bond with these wonderful kids is such a blessing. I love all my adopted grandchildren."

Brandman Centers Welcome New Leadership

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 08 May 2015 21:02:00 +0000

Susie Fishenfeld joined the Los Angeles Jewish Home as executive director of the Brandman Centers for Senior Care (BCSC), a Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), in November 2014. She has over 30 years of healthcare administration experience, including 17 years as senior general manager for Vitas Healthcare Corporation, Vitas Innovative Hospice Care. Ms. Fishenfeld was responsible for local functioning of corporate program operations, regulatory compliance, fiscal management, quality improvement, patient and family satisfaction, human resource management, strategic planning, and program development and expansion.

"It's wonderful to work with the outstanding, knowledgeable and dedicated staff of the Brandman Center," says Susie. "I am proud to lead this high-quality, comprehensive Program for All-inclusive Care for the Elderly."

Prior to her position at Vitas, Ms. Fishenfeld had a 13-year tenure at Encino-Tarzana Regional Medical Center, with the last 5 years as vice president of patient care services. She was responsible and accountable for operations related to patient care in a combination of health care arenas (acute, long-term care, and outpatient services).

Ms. Fishenfeld received her undergraduate education at University of California, Berkeley and Bachelor's of Science in Nursing from University of California, San Francisco. She holds a Master's Degree in Nursing from California State University, Long Beach in Administration and as a Critical Care Clinical Nurse Specialist.

Ms. Fishenfeld has been involved with many professional organizations, most recently holding committee positions with both the California Hospice and Palliative Care Association and California Association for Health Services at Home. She was on the Executive Committee for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Association in 2014.

BCSC promotes independence for nursing home eligible seniors in the comfort of their homes by providing high quality, comprehensive healthcare services. The program offers primary medical care, preventive health services, rehabilitation, social activities and transportation to and from the Center.

For more information about the Jewish Home's Brandman Centers for Senior Care, please call (855) 774-8444 or visit their website at www.brandmanseniorcare.org.