Connections

September 2015

E M P LOY E E N E W S L E T T E R

From the President & CEO Although the end of summer is near there is still ample opportunity

left to enjoy the mild weather. Several fishing trips are planned for our residents at the pond on our campus. Let’s hope the weather cooperates for this activity. I hear staff enjoyed the Italian theme picnic last month on the veranda of the Lutheran Home. This is an annual event at which managers serve the meal to thank staff for their hard work all year round.

Andrew E. Peterson, President & CEO

Much work has been done over the summer to improve our physical environment. As reported last month the beauty shop in the Martin building was significantly renovated. The reaction of residents who have used it has been very positive. Also in the same building the carpet in the first floor hallway from the rehab gym to the classroom was replaced with tile. Renovation of the patient rooms on the Gordon rehab unit continues to make them more inviting. Plans are underway to make modest improvements to several of the Katherine building dining rooms next year and also to the staff breakroom in the basement of that building. The adult home submitted to the state health department two applications to initiate different levels of assisted living. Hopefully, at least one, if not both are approved by yearend. This is a current service gap which we hope to close. Inside this issue:

Clinton Farmers Market

Staff

2

Educational Piece

2

Pastor McCaffrey’s Retirement

3

Practicing the Golden Rule

4

How We’re Doing

5

Hamilton Serves

5

KLRHC Resident Activities

6

LHCNY Resident Activities

7

Human Resource Vacation

7

Flu

7

SPEED LIMIT — SAFETY Our campus speed limit is 10mph. Please watch for residents outside who walk slowly or moving by wheelchair.

is still open every Thursday on the green. Come and get some fresh vegetables!!!

Staff Editor of Connections: Marie Goodman Resident Editor: Carmella Jeffalone (also known as “CJ”)

Staff Celebrations ANNIVERSARIES Linda Nowakowski 44 yrs., Cynthia Eisleben 40 yrs, Robin Orsino 40 yrs., Darla Dahl 37 yrs., Diane Powers 32 yrs., Donna Klis 31 yrs., Gail Ferguson 27 yrs., Paul Harney 22 yrs., Josephine Rahn 21 yrs., Sheila Vincent 16 yrs., Julie Gouse 15 yrs., Denise Kitchen 14 yrs., Michelle Carroll 13 yrs., Heidi Alsante 12 yrs., Tanya Burdick 11 yrs., William Gronosky 11, Bobbi Bush 10yrs., Brian McCaffrey 9 yrs., Tricia Mungo 8 yrs., Frank Jacobs 7 yrs., Therese Scholl 7 yrs., Melissa Dunne 5 yrs., Yvonne Bronga 4 yrs., Michael Seymour 4 yrs., Krystal Hence 3 yrs., Paula Atkinson 2 yrs., Hajrja Korkutovic 2 yrs., Delmina Mujic 2 yrs., Kristine Ryan 2 yrs., Erica Shinkarewich 2 yrs., Anita AntwiNuamah 1 yr., Celeste Billins 1 yr., Sonya Hughes 1 yr., Melissa Mudge 1 yr., Annabelle Mae Randall 1 yr., and Amanda Williams 1 yr.

BIRTHDAYS Anita Antwi-Nuamah, Nieyetta Archie, Kristie Barcomb, Jason Bishal, Yolanda Carr, Ashley Cassano, Jonathan Copeland, Nancy Davies, Jennifer Dropp, Sarah Fenton, Jack Fogelman, Amy Forrester, Lindsey Frenyea, Krystal Hence, Aida Hodzic, Christine Humphrey, Frances Hyde, Catherine Mackin, Corey McCarthy, Judy Miller, Fatima Muminovic, Sefika Nadarevic, Bonnie Pawlick, Rebecca Pearsall, Sieglinde Phillips, Steven Remington, Jamila Revill, Adela Rizvanovic, James Robertson, Erika Rondon, Sehveta Sabanovic, Stephanie Sroka, Leslie Steele, Tonay Stewart, Brittany Stockbridge, Sheri-Lynn Sullivan, Rachel Turner, Arnela Vincevic, Abigail Williams, and Victoria Zimmerman.

Mutual support behavior: key to effective teamwork! Good teamwork is essential in caregiving and research shows that it strongly depends on one particular skill known as mutual support or backup behavior. “Mutual support refers to the ability to anticipate the needs of other team members to be able to offer help,” explains Dr. Renee Bridges, of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Nursing So, what are examples of mutual support behavior? • Keeping an eye on one another, so that it’s easier to recognize when a coworker is falling behind, and offer them help before they ask. • Getting to know the tasks and responsibilities of each and every fellow team member. You may not be able to provide the help they actually need, if you don’t know exactly what they do. • Seeking assistance if you are overwhelmed by tasks. No matter how difficult this may be…. It is crucial to ensure the safety of the elders in your care. • Working ‘all-hands-on-deck’ to get the job done when the workload becomes too heavy. • Volunteering to fill in for a coworker who is unable to perform a certain task. Here are some tips for successful implementation: • When offering help, be clear about what you can do and how much time you can give. • Always ask for help in a courteous and respectful manner. • Avoid behaviors that may stop team members from asking for help, such as being elusive, unkind or unavailable. • If you are unsure about whether or not you should offer your help to a coworker, or seek assistance yourself, think about what is best for your elders, and you’ll know what to do. Teamwork is an effective way of improving the quality of resident care and safety while improving resident satisfaction. Allen Light, RN, BS Assistant Director of Nursing Director of Staff Development Page 2

C O N N E C TI O N S

OUR PARTNERSHIP IN THE GOSPEL 3

I thank my God every time I remember you, 4 constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, 5 because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now. 6 I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1:3-6)

The time that Helen and I have spent at LutheranCare and in Upstate New York Synod has been filled with joys, challenges, experiences of beauty and Pastor Brian McCaffrey sorrows. We have met so many new friends, and colleagues who have prayed for us, and who have shared questions and stories of God’s faithfulness: We can share our glimpses of God’s grace at any time in life. The glimpses are like seeds that get planted; they can literally take a lifetime to grow and bear fruit; Grace, Faith, Hope, Love (any gift of the Spirit) needs nurturing, support and encouragement. Paul was constantly reminding his readers to “remember” that our identity is intimately connected to Christ Jesus; so connected that whether we live or whether we die we are the Lord’s. To practice this way of having God in all aspects of our being breaks down the numerous compartments we break our lives into: Sunday – Monday, Work – Home, Young – Old, or even Friend – Enemy. God is to be found in every aspect of life. Whatever your position here at LutheranCare: CNA, food service, maintenance, PT/OT, housekeeping, IT, central supply, support staff and volunteers look for the Grace of God and offer your unique perspective to make the world a better place. (Check out 1 Corinthians 12-13) Your task is to work together to create a space in which Grace, Faith, Hope, and Love are valued and nurtured. I go from here thankful for our partnership in the gospel and confident that the one who has begun a good work in us will bring it to completion on the day of Jesus Christ.

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One nomination has been received for Random Acts of Kindness award since the last publication of Connections. Nominators are co-workers and family members who recognize the work of an employee who has gone over their responsibilities and duties. One lucky person per nomination cycle wins the drawing for a $25 Mall gift certificate and an additional prize from LutheranCare. John Smith, CNA nominated by Wanda Johnson who wrote: Even though John has left our unit to go the third floor, he well deserves a title of “I CARE & UNDERSTAND and “WHAT CAN I DO FOR YOU?” He’s the best!!!

James Robertson, hskp nominated by Cassandra Snyder who wrote: James was moving things in residents rooms and on his hands and knees cleaning floors. He is really thorough in cleaning the rooms.

Michelle Carroll, LPN nominated by Amanda who wrote: While our unit manager was gone, Michelle picked up the extra slack and kept our unit running smoothly, always with a smile on her face.

Anita Larmon, CNA nominated by Elaine Kulesza who wrote: Anita answers lights quickly. She is very pleasant and works very hard. Anita should teach other aides.

Yvonne Gardner, LPN nominated by Michelle Carroll who wrote: Yvonne is being recognized for being a team player, helping out and keeping the unit organized.

Deborah Panzone nominated by Martha Ryan who wrote: Deb has worked on Applewood a long time and for all that time, whenever I visit my Mom, Deb fills me in on how Mom has been. Her kindness & attention to Mom helps me know Mom is well cared for. Thanks!!

Kim Robertson, CNA nominated by Herman Friske who wrote: Kim goes all over doing trips with residents to the hospital. Kim helps out all over this place, is helpful and kind. Valerie Gathers, LPN nominated by Wanda Johnson who wrote: Valerie is the most caring person and thorough nurse I have ever had! She always does her best, along with all her other duties, to make me feel good about myself. She even finds time to spend when I need it. Valerie deserve more than she gets, I’m sure!!! Yolaida Parra, CNA nominated by Wanda Johnson who wrote I have sent in other names as we have a number of great staff and all excellent nurses. I must not forget one name, Yolaida. As a young person she has personality, compassion and a continual smile. Never rough and always willing. Michelle Carroll, LPN nominated by Bryance Fovosk who wrote: While our unit manager was out sick, Michelle picked up the extra work attending meetings and didn’t let it stress her out. Thank You!! Melissa Aceto, CNA nominated by Wanda Johnson who wrote: I have never seen her cross with residents or even coworkers. Always a pleasant greeting when she enters my room and leaves me smiling when she leaves. Kim Deming, LPN nominated by Wanda Johnson who wrote: Kim always greets and cares for us in a courteous manner. She gives me just enough sympathy when I need it without spoiling me. Sherri Sullivan, CNA nominated by Cassandra Snyder who wrote: Sherri offered to stay to work 2-10 so that I could go back to my unit when floated. It is greatly appreciated!!

Michelle Carroll, LPN nominated by Yvonne Gardner who wrote: While unit manager was out Michelle went out of her way to help make unit run smoothly. Tracy Lamanque, stopped in one day and helped TR with Bingo and while assisting residents noticed that some of them had a hard time finding prizes they liked. Tracy then took the time to make a display board and added jewelry to it to give them an easier way to see and decide. She also donated items to the prize selection. Thank you Tracy, for being generous with your time and donations. The residents and TR truly appreciate it!! SAUL UNIT nominated by Ray & Terry who wrote: We want to just pass on our deepest appreciation and love, in caring for our Aunt Roberta Wright. THANK YOU!! Shana Fortnam wrote: To the entire TR department for going the extra mile while working short through vacations and staffing changes and extra responsibilities, and taking initiative to do things without being asked, and working as a team with good communication together. Nice job everyone, it’s noticed and very much appreciated. Thank you !

Winner is... Tracy Lamanque

John Smith, CNA nominated by Bryanna Forrester who wrote: John is always willing to help me when I am behind. Page 4

C O N N E C TI O N S

EXTRA EXTRA READ ALL ABOUT IT Observer Dispatch leaves several copies of the newspaper in the reception lobby early morning for our residents. Several times the count is down. Please do not remove the OD papers as they are all counted for and you are on camera!! Several residents expect the paper at a certain time to read (their routine). One paper is left in the reception area to share and one in Time Out Café. Those papers are to be left in that area to share and not removed. The Observer Dispatch can be purchased and delivered at your home or viewed on the internet at home. Please be considerate.

DID YOU KNOW...

By Tracy Margott, Administrator

…….Fall is right around the corner ? I can’t believe how quickly this summer passed. I always hate to see the end of summer approach but those changing leaves sure are beautiful and we live close to some of the most beautiful places to “leaf peep.” The largest part of the state will peak in the second and third week of October but you can probably get an early start in the Saranac Lake and Lake Placid areas the last two weeks of September. Jamestown, NY is also a good bet the first week of October. The last two weeks of October are peak for anywhere along the Hudson and Great Lakes area. Make sure to take a relaxing day trip or even an overnight to get away from the stress of the daily grind. I know I will be. Happy Fall !

INCIDENT REPORTING Accidents happen but need to be reported to Human Resources within 24 hours. Employee incident reports are located on all Nursing Units and departments within the facility. They are also in the Nursing Supervisor’s Office, outside Central Supply and Human Resources. All sections of the form must be filled out and a supervisor must be called. The supervisor’s section MUST be completed (front and back), signed and returned to HR within 24 hours of the incident. If you have any questions or concerns please call me at ext. 7122.

Don’t forget to keep up the monthly 10 mile walk (half mile around our building x20). September cards are available in the Human Resource Office. September is the last month before a celebration of the summer months of exercise!!!!

Hamilton Serves! On the morning of Wednesday, August 26, a group of eager and enthusiastic students from Hamilton College visited the LutheranCare campus to volunteer their time and talents for the benefit of our residents. The 11 young people split into groups to help transport, flip pages, set bowling pins and generally interact during resident activities. Page 5

Katherine Luther ResidenƟal Health Care & RehabilitaƟon Center Resident AcƟvity for September 9/4 Red Hat Bingo at 2:30 –CR 9/9 Night Bingo at 7 pm –MLH 9/10 Howie Bartolo performs at 10:30 –CR 9/11 Depart for shopping trip at 10:30 am 9/11 Trivia League at 2:30-MLH 9/12 Big Al sings at 2:30 –CR 9/14 Apple Baking Group-2:30 -AR 9/15 Harp Therapy visits begin at 10 am –ML 9/16 Apple Pastry Cook-Off at 3 pm -CR 9/16 Harp Therapy visits begin at 10 am –KL 9/16 Paul Ryder performs at 7 pm –CR 9/17 Special breakfast on MV at 7 am

CR — Community Room KLH — Katherine Luther Home NA—Nolte Auditorium

July Safety Winners:

MLH — Martin Luther Home OSC — Our Saviour Chapel DR—Dining Room

9/18 Night out at the Track departs at 6:30 pm 9/20 Bingo with the Lutheran Churches at 2:30 –CR 9/21 Depart for fishing trip at 9:30 am 9/24 Monthly Birthday Luncheon at 12 pm –CR 9/25 Trivia League at 2:30-MLH 9/28 Resident Council meeting-OSC at 11 am 9/30 Remnants perform at 7 pm -CR

Bertha won a trophy for Rookie of the year and a cerƟficate for a high score. Bill Sheppard won a trophy for best team average and he got a cerƟficate for a high score as well.

Amela Bulaja –Lutheran Home - $150.00 Jack Fogelman– M/HK/L - $100.00 Martin Luther — 4 lost days

Rachel Turner – Dietary - $50.00 Susan Ochoa – KL - $150.00

Child Care Grant Program UFCW Women’s Network There is a grant available to UFWC members to help pay for childcare. You must have the following criteria to apply for the grant: *have a dependent child (or Children) in need of dependent care *Parents must work outside of the house *Use a qualified child care provider either licensed by the state or on file with the IRS *Applicant must be a member of UFCW in good standing for 1 Yr *Grant winners from prior years are not eligible for the following year, but may apply in future years. If you meet the above criteria, please stop down to Human Resources for a Grant Application. All completed applications must be returned to Human Resources by December 15, 2015. Page 6

C O N N E C TI O N S

Lutheran Adult Home AcƟvity Highlights 9/4 – Baking Group (NA) Biscuits and Honey Social (NA) 9/8 – Resident Council (DR) Wal Mart Shopping (sign up) California Dreamin’ Social (NA) 9/9 – KFC Luncheon (sign up) (NA) 9/10 – Birthday Dinner (DR) Clinton Farmer’s Market (sign up) 9/11 – Book Sale (Administration Building) Remembering 9/11 (NA) Classical Music Appreciation (NA) 9/12 – Miniature Golf (NA) HOMECOMING WEEK 14-18 9/14 – Senior Picture Day (ADSP) Back to School Lunch (NA) Back to School Bee (NA)

9/15 – Music Class (NA) History Class (ADSP) 9/16 – Art Class (ADSP) Science Class (NA) Homecoming Bonfire (outside, weather permitting) 9/17 – Pep Rally (NA) Homecoming Football Game (NA) 9/18 – Home Ec Class (NA) Homecoming Dance (NA) 9/21 – Wal Mart Shopping (sign up) 9/22 – Menu Meeting and Nutrition Talk (DR) Traveling the Underground Railroad (NA) 9/24 – Fall Canning (NA) 9/25 – Baking Group (NA) Johnny Appleseed Social (NA) 9/29 – Dollar Tree Shopping (sign up)

2015 Vacation Time Human Resources Leeann Light, DHR Just a reminder with 2015 more than half over; you need to watch your vacation balances. Hourly employees can carry over 37.5 hours into 2016. Any vacation time over 37.5 hours will be subtracted from your vacation balance on December 31, 2015. Any carry over balance must be used by June 30, 2016. If you have any questions, please call Leeann at extension 7122. Eighty percent of success is showing up!

Woody Allen Let us all chip in and save the environment by helping with recycling. As a reminder there are bins throughout the facility for recycling paper along with five cent can recycling boxes. Turning off lights can also save on energy and cut costs on electrical bills. Let us all chip in and save the earth.

Get Flu Shot or MASK UP The state health department requires that staff who don’t receive the flu immunization must wear a mask in resident care areas during a flu outbreak as determined by the state health commissioner. The state health department really wants all health care staff to receive this immunization. Immunization programs are more effective at limiting communicable disease outbreaks when the vast majority of people are immunized. So avoid possibly wearing a mask during flu season by taking advantage of the free immunization provided by LutheranCare. Our immunization effort should be getting underway in late September or October. Margarete (Peggy) Wermter,RN/ADON Director of Employee Health/Infection Prevention SEPTEMBER 2015

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August 12th Italian Staff Picnic