Village by the Shore Fall 2019
Get Social with Village by the Shore Fall is a time of hustle and bustle with school starting, leaves falling and holidays abound. For many, the transition from fall to winter is a time to get social and stay active. For $18 per month, Village by the Shore has dozens of activities, like gardening, soap making and cooking classes, just to name a few, that keep seniors engaged in the community all year long. Insightful and fast-paced conversation is what’s brewing at Coffee Klatch. These 90-minute, interactive workshops, where everyone is welcome to speak their mind, have attracted special guest speakers, including Southern District of New York bankruptcy judge Shelley Chapman and NJ Assemblyman John Armato. Attendees enjoy refreshments while talking politics, technology, world events, the arts, religion, and more in a respectful and moderated setting. Coffee Klatch is free for Village members and occurs once a month in the JCC boardroom from 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon. Each month, Lunch Around Town guests gather at a local eatery to enjoy friendly conversation and a delicious meal. Past restaurants have included The Crab Trap, Downbeach Deli, Gilchrist Restaurant and Agnes Café. Guests can order directly from the menu and pay their own way. As an added treat, Village members receive a discount from five to fifteen percent depending on the venue. Experience the thrill of storytelling by capturing your life’s loves, adventures, desires, history and ancestry in a monthly workshop led by Drexel University Professor of Creative Writing and published author, Harriet Levin Millan. This exciting Memoir Writing Workshop is held in the JCC small activity room from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. monthly. Specialized events, including local theater productions, dance socials, cooking classes, flower arranging, trips to area baseball games and more are offered complimentary or at reduced cost to Village members throughout the year. These programs are made possible through the generous support of the Jewish Federation of Atlantic and Cape May Counties. In partnership with the JCC, Village members over 60 also enjoy free entrance to Water Wellness and Creative Writing and may take advantage of JCC member pricing for Brunch & Learn, Mahjong Brunch and Dinner and a Movie. To keep up-to-date with all Village events and programs, email villagejfs@jfsatlantic.org to be added to the monthly mailing list or visit www.jfsvillagebytheshore.org.
2 I Program Spotlight:
4 I Boomer Spotlight
3 I Volunteer Spotlight
5 I Special Events
Kosher Meals on Wheels Marla Rosenthol
Bring Harmony to your Habitat
6 I Turkey Drive 7 I Community Connections 8 I Membership Spotlight
Program Spotlight
Strength in Community
jfsatlantic.org
Kosher Meals on Wheels Thursday is Sylvia’s* favorite day of the week. That’s when she sees Bob, a JFS volunteer, who delivers a week’s worth of nutritious meals. Once Bob is finished putting the meals away, he and Sylvia sit in the dining room with a fresh pot of coffee – hazelnut, Bob’s favorite – and talk about current events, family and their shared love of the Philadelphia Phillies. Kosher Meals on Wheels (KMOW), like so many Village programs, keeps people like Sylvia connected to the community, allowing them to age in place for as long as it is appropriate and safe. The program provides healthy, easy to prepare meals to Village members. Each meal contains a variety of food, including fruits and vegetables; hearty soups and breads; entrees like chicken, turkey or fish, and dessert. Many KMOW clients live alone and the program not only provides meals but contact, conversation and a means of checking on their health and well-being. Kosher meals are $7.50 per meal, however sliding scale discounts are available based on income. For more information on becoming a KMOW volunteer or to receive meals, please contact Vanessa Smith at (609) 822-1108 x249 or vsmith@jfsatlantic.org. *Sylvia’s story is a composite created from several different JFS clients and used to protect the privacy of members.
Staff Spotlight Susan Clark As a Social Service Liaison, Susan Clark offers Shalom House residents a variety of concierge-style services and leads educational presentations that focus on health and well-being. Susan joined JFS in May 2019. She previously worked as a volunteer coordinator for a hospice company and as a social worker in assisted living communities and nursing homes. “My favorite part of the job is getting to know the residents and knowing that I am helping them in some small way when they need it,” said Susan. A graduate of West Chester University, Susan holds a bachelor’s degree in social work. In her free time, she enjoys bike rides on the boardwalk, practicing yoga and doting on her Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Wynnie, who is working on becoming a therapy dog.
Jessica Jones Jessica Jones joined JFS in July of this year as a Care Coordinator for Village by the Shore. By supporting Village members through a variety of services; including care coordination, transportation to doctor’s appointments, and running errands; Jessica is able to help Village members comfortably age in place. “My favorite part of the job is the people,” said Jessica. “Being able to meet new people and work with others who are dedicated to helping the community keeps me motivated.” Jessica earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Georgian Court University and is currently working toward her master’s in clinical counseling with an emphasis on trauma. She previously worked as a case manager in a behavioral health day program. In her free time, Jessica enjoys reading fictional novels and writing short stories.
Donald Cassidy, Ph.D. Donald Cassidy, Ph.D., serves as the Director of Trauma Training & In-Home Therapy, supporting Holocaust Survivors and their caregivers with counseling services using Person-Centered Trauma-Informed (PCTI) therapy. He also provides training for community professionals and volunteers to better educate them on the impact of the Holocaust on Survivors. “As a clinical psychologist, educator and workshop trainer, this position feels like a perfect opportunity to use my professional experiences to help our JFS clients,” said Donald. Prior to joining JFS, Donald served as the Director of Counseling Services at Stockton University. He holds a bachelor’s degree in English literature from Swarthmore College and a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Fielding Graduate University. Donald is currently pursuing a master’s in Holocaust and Genocide studies at Stockton University. In his free time, Donald enjoys spending time with this wife, Judy, and their three children and one grandson.
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Volunteer Spotlight
Strength in Community
jfsatlantic.org
Marla Rosenthol Marla Rosenthol can’t sit still. An avid ballroom dancer, trained triathlete and world traveler, this busy mom to three still finds time to volunteer with JFS. Through the Kosher Meals on Wheels (KMOW) program, Marla spends Thursday mornings packing bags full of food and delivering them to Village members who might otherwise go without. In addition to providing nourishing meals, Marla also looks forward to chatting and spending time with her “Villagers.” Born and raised in the Philadelphia suburbs, Marla began her career in the advertising world and soon transitioned into printing and publishing, ultimately retiring a few years ago from a custom invitations and stationary business. With daughters Paige, Hallie and Leila now living in the New York area, Marla and her husband, Leonard, decided to establish roots in Margate. Having benefited from Jewish Family Service while in college, Marla knew she wanted to give back in some way now that JFS was in her own backyard. “All of our Villagers had full lives and spent much of it working, raising a family and contributing to the world,” said Marla. “As a volunteer, we are on the front lines showing them the respect that they deserve now that they are in their older years.” Marla’s generosity and compassion for others stems from her 99 year-old, Las Vegas dwelling grandmother. “I would love to be doing these things for her, so instead, I am helping out other people’s mothers and grandmothers,” said Marla. “It really is my pleasure!” In addition to KMOW, Marla also volunteers through In-Home Grocery Shopping and Delivery and as a house hostess for the annual JFS House Tour. “Villagers have a lifetime of wisdom to pass on,” said Marla. “It is an honor and a privilege to converse with them and serve them.” For more information on volunteer opportunities at JFS, contact Vanessa Smith at (609) 822-1108 x249 or vsmith@jfsatlantic.org.
High Quality Care in the Comfort of Home BAYADA Nurse, Maria N.
BAYADA is dedicated to keeping people of all ages safe in the comfort of home. Services include: • Short-term nursing and rehabilitation to help people recover from illness, injury, or surgery • High-tech nursing for children and adults, including tracheostomy and ventilator care • One-on-one care at school • Help with bathing and grooming • End-of-life hospice care To learn more, call 800-305-3000. bayada.com
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Boomer Spotlight
Strength in Community
jfsatlantic.org
Bring Harmony to your Habitat A Room with Mess means a Boomer in Stress Today’s boomers are more active than ever before – traveling, hobbies, volunteering and active social lives are the norm for the over fifty-five crowd. For the boomer who’s always on the go, a house full of clutter can halt active lifestyles, and can even be detrimental to their health.
Cluttered Room, Cluttered Mind All that stuff sitting on shelves and piled in corners can actually be causing stress. Research shows that removing or donating unnecessary belongings can not only increase productivity, but a neat environment can also make you happier. Tidying up your home may inspire you to make other positive changes in your life, like being more physically active and making healthier dietary choices.
Delicate Conversations over Delicate China As boomers grow older, so too does the volume of unwanted keepsakes. According to The New York Times, today’s young adults represent a significant shift in material culture. Instead of inheriting from their parent or grandparents, millennials would rather acquire household goods they consider disposable or temporary from big box stores, such as Target or Ikea. It is no longer the norm of passing down mementos from one generation to the next. So if you no longer have a use for it and your children have no interest in receiving it, consider donating your unwanted items to charity.
Tips for Tidying Up When you’re ready to take the next steps to simplifying your life, remember to start small. Most professional organizers recommend tackling one room at a time, using the three box method – one box for stuff to keep, one box for stuff to donate and one box for stuff to throw out. Another approach that has gained popularity is the KonMari Method. Created by organizing consultant Marie Kondo, this process encourages people to only keep items that “spark joy” or bring them happiness.
If You Need Support For some people, the process of decluttering and organizing can be too overwhelming to take on alone. Professional companies and support groups can make the process easier. Village members can also receive discounts from vetted service partners, like Ellen Farber Strategic Design, who regularly works with seniors and families to determine interior design changes that improve and promote independence, comfort and safety. The Mental Health Association in Atlantic County also has resources for those that need a little extra help. Services include a support group for those struggling with too many things and who need the tools and knowledge to tackle the clutter; Buried in Treasures (BIT), an intensive 16-week workshop designed to build long-term skills; and home based intervention.
GERIATRIC HOUSE CALLS
Call 609.464.4981 to speak with an Account Manager in your area.
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Special Events
Strength in Community
jfsatlantic.org
JFS House Tour Raises $45,000 Tuesday, October 29, 2019 @ 6:00 pm
Enjoy Cookie’s three-course vegetarian dinner made with seasonal herbs and vegetables complimented with an interactive discussion by Herbalist Gayle Gross and Functional Nutritionist Diane Melano.
9700 Amherst Avenue, Margate
$100 per guest Nearly 700 attendees got an exclusive look inside eight stunning Downbeach homes on August 5 for the 32nd Annual JFS House Tour, benefiting Village by the Shore. This year’s homes offered breathtaking views of the ocean, eclectic design elements and 1920s charm. Pictured above, a group of friends admire a living room designed by awardwinning architect Terri J. Cummings.
(Seating is limited) Proceeds benefit JFS Health & Wellness Initiatives
$25 wine raffle (Every entry wins) Pick a Cork, Win a Bottle
To register:
609-822-1108 • jfsatlantic.org
6th Annual Card Party a Success
“Home Health Care with Feeling” • Care for Infants, Children, 800.603.CARE (2273) • PreferredCares.com Adults, and Seniors • Skilled Nursing (RNs, LPNs)
Home Health Care & Nursing Services, Inc.
• Pediatric/Adult Ventilator Care • Home Health Aides • 24-Hour Live-In Aides
Held on August 29 at Harbor Pines Golf Club, the JFS Card Party raised nearly $13,000 to support Village by the Shore. Over 100 guests gathered for a fun afternoon of games, including canasta, mahjong and bridge. Attendees also enjoyed a delicious buffet lunch, shopped local vendors and bid on exciting prizes. This popular event continues to sell out year after year.
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• Private Pay and Most Insurances Accepted LICENSED • BONDED • INSURED
800.603.CARE (2273) PreferredCares.com
Turkey Drive
Strength in Community
jfsatlantic.org
Gobble, Gobble! Support JFS Turkey Drive
3 ways to help
Every day, families turn to JFS for help to put food on the table. The holidays are no different. Thanksgiving is a time when families come together, enjoy a warm meal and count their blessings. But for struggling families that deal with food insecurity on a daily basis, the promise of a traditional Thanksgiving meal is an added expense they cannot afford.
1 Donate a complete meal
$36
$36 (or more) provides a family with a Thanksgiving turkey plus the holiday trimmings.
2 Fill a bag
For just $36, you can provide a family with a complete Thanksgiving dinner. Last year JFS was able to supply meals to hundreds of local families and this year’s need is anticipated to rise.
Each meal JFS provides is complete with a variety of side dishes. Fill a bag with one of each of the following: • stuffing • yams • corn • mac & cheese • gravey • string beans • mashed potatoes •cranberry sauce
3 Add a gift card
Help JFS reach our goal of feeding 450 families this Thanksgiving. For more information or to donate to this year’s Turkey Drive, visit jfsatlantic.org or contact Vanessa Smith, Supervisor of Volunteer Services at (609) 822-1108 x249 or vsmith@jfsatlantic.org.
A $20 donation or local grocery store gift card allows the family to purchase a turkey to complete the meal.
Lig ht Housekeep ing Bat hing A ssist ance Everyd ay Healt h Rem ind ers Transp ort at ion/ Errand s
Post Surg ery/ Rehab Care A m b ulat ion A ssist ance Meal Prep arat ion Laund ry
Bond ed & Insured Careg ivers A vailab le 24 Hours-a-Day Hosp it al Discharg e A ssist ance/ Transp ort at ion
Cust om ized Sched ules Three lines of t ext t o d escrib e t he cit ies, count ies or areas you serve
HOMECARE WITH HEART
Local Senior Care Specializing in Alzheimer’s and Dementia KELLYKARE.NET (609) 703-4336
6 0 9 .788.8236
10% discount for Village members
w w w .rahnjshore.com
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Community Connections
Strength in Community
jfsatlantic.org
Jodi Lewis-Smith, CSA Safer Senior Living, Your Goal, Our Mission
Certified Senior Advisor
856-904-0800 856-985-0084 609-257-0805
Village members put on their dancing shoes and enjoyed live music by “Even Betta” during the Spring Fling on May 2.
jodis@carepatrol.com
Village & community members cheered on the Lakewood BlueClaws as they defeated the Greenville Drive during a trip to the ballpark on July 29.
“Because Some Things Are Worth Protecting” SERVICES: • Medicaid application assistance • Protect your life savings • Estate Planning documents • Certified social worker for care coordination • Enhance quality of life • Ease caregiving burdens • Patient advocacy
Holocaust Survivors, friends and family gathered together on August 25 for the Annual Intergenerational Brunch at Beth El Synagogue.
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LIFE CARE PLANNING | ELDER LAW | ESTATE PLANNING | SPECIAL NEEDS PLANNING
Garden Goddess, Liz Donaghy helped attendees create beautiful container gardens during June’s featured Village event.
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Member Spotlight
Strength in Community
jfsatlantic.org
Traveling the world as a Navy Chaplain with the Third Marine Division in the late 1950s, Rabbi Krauss fondly recounts several humorous stories about life as a Jewish American Chaplain looking for Kosher food and restaurants in Morocco, Taiwan and Okinawa – and finding them. The only child of an old-fashioned Orthodox Jewish family, his mother, Ida, was from Bridgeport, Connecticut, and his father, Max, immigrated from Lithuania, where he attended the Ponevezh Yeshiva, commonly known as the place where poor people gathered to learn.
Rabbi Aaron Krauss
For Rabbi Krauss, education was always a driving force. As a child, he attended Barnum Public School, where he was one of only two Jewish students in the class. By middle school, he was attending RJJ Yeshiva with his cousin. At recess, he happily recalls walking through the very narrow alley then across the street to buy chickpeas for a penny and then visiting another vendor for a two-cent roll. All total, his threecent custom sandwich was a delicious treat!
Rabbi Krauss went on to study at Yeshiva University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. He received his rabbinical ordination, Master of Hebrew Literature and Doctorate of Divinity from the Jewish Theological Seminary. While pursuing graduate studies at Columbia University, he attended lectures by John Randall, head of the Philosophy department, and Paul Tillich, a well-known theologian scholar. In 1962, Rabbi Krauss received a call that ultimately led to his relocation to the uptown Atlantic City inlet area. There, he became the Rabbi at the Community Synagogue, the first conservative shul in the area. Organized more than 100 years ago following World War I, the synagogue served a thriving community that included 11 Kosher butchers and a multitude of Jewish organizations, Kosher hotels and guest houses. However, with the changing landscape in the late 1970s, Rabbi Krauss shared, “When the casinos moved in and began acquiring properties, Atlantic City became the tale of two cities – the casino industry and the rest of AC.” He added, “People were being displaced by the urban renewal.” Eventually, some members of the beloved Community Synagogue broke away and formed Beth El Synagogue in Margate. From 1983 to 2003, Rabbi Krauss led the congregation. Following a brief retirement, he once again returned to lead Beth El and holds that position today. A community advocate, Rabbi Krauss was instrumental in the formation of the Greater Atlantic City Human Relations Forum, President of the Zionist Organization of America – Mid-Atlantic Region, a three-term President of the South Jersey Board of Rabbis and President of Trocki Hebrew Academy. He was also part of the founding of The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey (now referred to as Stockton University) and currently serves on the university’s Board of Trustees. Throughout his life, Rabbi Krauss has also been recognized with an array of awards both locally and nationally. With a life filled with events and experiences, perhaps his most heartfelt accomplishment was marrying his beloved wife, Millie, raising their two children and doting on their four grandchildren. Now, after proudly ministering to the needs of our community, when asked what brought him and Millie to the Village by the Shore, he shared, “When I was talking about giving up my car and facing the physical limitations of aging, my friends, Dave and Sylvia, recommended that I call the JFS Village.” He added, “They love the Village and now we do too. It’s been tremendous! It’s made all the difference.” Millie explained, “We like chicken soup and I don’t have to cook it! It’s a big help to know that you can go to the freezer and have supper.” The Krauss’ use the Village transportation and Kosher Meals on Wheels programs, and recently attended Coffee Klatch, where they enjoyed a fast-paced conversation about national and international politics, technology, families and the arts.
Village by the Shore 609.822.1109 villagejfs@jfsatlantic.org 607 North Jerome Avenue, Margate, NJ 08402
jfsvillagebytheshore.org
JFS is an affiliate agency of the Jewish Federation of Atlantic and Cape May Counties and a partner agency with United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey in Atlantic County.
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