Village by the Shore Spring 2021 Newsletter by Beth Joseph

Village by the Shore Spring 2021

JFS Rolls Up Their Sleeves Against COVID-19 Staff and volunteers assist with vaccination process When reflecting on a year, most people remember the highlights – special occasions, quality time with family and friends, or fabulous vacations. As we surpass the anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic, and how it's altered our personal and professional lives, that reflection has a different meaning. “In March 2020, we had no idea what the coming year would bring. However, the JFS staff knew the importance of reaching out and helping clients, especially our older adult population, including Holocaust Survivors,” said Andrea Steinberg, JFS CEO. When vaccines became available in early 2021, JFS staff and volunteers worked diligently to educate and secure vaccinations for all Village members and Holocaust Survivors. In addition, Village members, their family and friends were able, and can continue to, participate in the monthly Nurse’s Roundtable program presented by Nurse Educator, Lori Pasahow. This free Zoom program provides pertinent information about COVID research, vaccinations and the latest updates. In total, more than 1,500 individuals have received vaccine education through JFS. JFS volunteers have spent more than 200 hours assisting with vaccination registration and appointments, as simply trying to navigate the online system could be frustrating and confusing. For many area seniors, including a 99-year-old member and her daughter who both received the vaccine in March at the Atlantic City Mega-Site, having help made the difference. We are proud to share all members who wanted a vaccine have been scheduled. While there’s still news evolving regarding the vaccines’ long-term effectiveness, getting one has provided safety and peace of mind as people begin to return to in-person activities and spend quality time with family and friends. JFS will continue the fight against COVID-19 by assisting with vaccination efforts. For more information or assistance with scheduling a vaccination or education workshop, contact Sharon Simon, Rothenberg Center for Family Life Supervisor, at 609.822.1108 x152 or ssimon@jfsatlantic.org. 2 I Program Spotlight

4 I Boomer Spotlight

3 I Volunteer Spotlight

5 I Healthy Living

“JFS' outreach to those eligible for vaccination enabled me to get a spot at the mega-site in Atlantic City when I had tried repeatedly on my own.” – Nancy L., Village Member

VAX FACTS • COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. These vaccines cannot give you COVID-19. • For the Pfizer vaccine, the interval between the first and second dose is 21 days. For the Moderna vaccine, the interval between the first and second dose is 28 days. • You may experience side effects after vaccination, but these are normal. Side effects may include muscle pain, redness, swelling, headache and chills. Any concerns, contact your PCP. • It typically takes two weeks after being fully vaccinated for the body to build protection (immunity) against the virus. Information provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For additional details, visit cdc.gov.

6 I Member Spotlight

Program Spotlight Care Coordination Having someone to rely on for help to understand your health, sort through paperwork and provide guided support to better the quality of your life is what encompasses JFS’ Care Coordination program. As part of the Village by the Shore membership, agency Care Coordinators are focused on assisting people navigate each day a little easier which can help reduce stress and anxiety sometimes associated with how to get things done. For instance, a Care Coordinator will accompany a client to a doctor’s appointment, never leaving their side. They serve as an extra set of eyes and ears when the doctor is providing a diagnosis, test results or answering a patient’s questions. A JFS Care Coordinator also makes phone calls to insurance companies, businesses, banks, medical facilities, cable, electric and gas companies representing the member to handle necessary matters. In addition, a Care Coordinator will explore to see if a member qualifies for any additional governmental benefits based on their household income or coverage. Just as important, in this current environment, they will research any unexpected inquiries to ensure a client is not being scammed. Care coordination can also reach out through a friendly phone call to check on a member’s well-being. JFS has the dedicated staff to handle a client’s needs with compassion and care in a safe environment. As a client continues to age, and they require alternate living arrangements, a Care Coordinator can assist with either hiring homecare or research and visit assisted living, skilled nursing, and/or memory care facilities. From appointments and running essential errands to on-site visits, a Care Coordinator wants a member to feel safe and comfortable in their surroundings. Overall, a JFS Village Care Coordinator handles the ‘leg work’ to make a client’s day-to-day life experience and environment as anxiety-free and comfortable as possible. For more information on the Care Coordination program, contact Village by the Shore at 609.822.1109.

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Volunteer Spotlight Congetta “Gigi” Marino Volunteerism is part of Congetta Marino’s fabric. Best known as Gigi, the 50-year-old mother of two, weaves in a multitude of volunteerism efforts when not working a full-time job as a Slot Services Associate at the Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa. Gigi became familiar with JFS when her company hosted a Community Vendor Fair. With more than a dozen organizations in attendance within the ballroom, Gigi took her time and visited just about every table – American Red Cross, Humane Society of Atlantic County, Salvation Army and more. At the JFS informational table, Gigi was drawn to the diverse programs and services as well as the flexibility to volunteer when her schedule permits, which is usually two days a week. “Gigi takes tremendous pride in her volunteer work. She handles every task with a smile on her face. Gigi understands the importance of having someone or someplace to rely on if needed.” said Mary DeMarco, JFS Retired Senior Volunteer Program Coordinator. As a three-year JFS volunteer, Gigi with her soft tone voice, makes a bold presence when entering a room with her neon green Borgata logo t-shirt and meticulously polished fingernails. She assists the agency by re-stocking the pantry with cans of hearty soups knowing they will help fill somebody's empty stomach. Gigi also keeps busy making check-in calls to Village by the Shore members, especially Fran. During her weekly call, Gigi takes Fran’s grocery order and chats about how her family is continuing to adjust to the pandemic restrictions – plus they spend time reviewing what they are cooking. Gigi shares her latest dessert recipe incase Fran wants to add the ingredients to her grocery order. When the pandemic hit and seniors were unable to go grocery shopping, Gigi stepped in to help with food shopping and delivery for clients on the island. She has also volunteered as a hostess at the popular JFS House Tour fundraiser. Whatever the “ask” is for her day of volunteering, Gigi is always ready to help. “Honestly, I tried volunteering once and I was hooked,” she shared. “The feeling you get inside yourself from helping someone and the good vibes come back ten-fold.” In addition to her JFS efforts, Gigi, who garnered approximately 100 hours volunteering in 2020 alone, also supports the Marine Mammal Stranding at their Whales & Ales Fundraiser, Field of Dreams, which provides disabled children with the opportunity to participate in baseball, and the Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City, making PPE masks for kids. “Volunteering makes me feel joyful that I could make someone’s life a little better while also getting a learning experience for me to develop new skills, discover new passions and gain new insights about myself and life around me. Just as importantly, it keeps me humble and grateful for what I have in my life,” said Gigi. When Gigi’s not volunteering, working or spending time with her daughters, she can be found in the kitchen cooking chili, stew and kugel or making cheesecake, brownies, and cookies – from her Aunt Irene’s cookbook. Her Borgata co-workers are all smiles when they see Gigi walk across the casino floor carrying sweet treats. “Besides that I love baking, it’s my way of giving back to my casino colleagues who are there to help each other,” Gigi said. NOTE: As part of the MGM Cares program (Borgata’s parent company), the 10 associates with the most volunteer hours on an annual basis are awarded $250 for the charity of their choice. Gigi chose JFS.

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Boomer Spotlight Keeping Your Health in Harmony: The Benefits of Music Music is an important part of everyday life. Many of us listen to music when in the car, hum along to a television show’s theme song or listen to what’s playing on overhead speakers in the store. At times, there is one poignant song, whether big band, jazz, country, rock ‘n’ roll, contemporary or classical, that takes us back to a certain time and place. Research has found that music can promote relaxation, reduce stress and improve productivity. For music listeners, pleasing melodies deliver benefits for physical, social and mental health, especially being isolated during the pandemic. As a Johns Hopkins Otolaryngologist said, “There are few things that stimulate the brain the way music does. If you want to keep your brain engaged throughout the aging process, listening to or playing music is a great tool. It provides a total brain workout.” Recent studies show that people who listen to music often experience a better nights’ sleep, increased energy levels and mobility, and an overall boost in cognitive abilities. Music has shown to enhance moods, improve interest levels and increase positive emotions. With today’s technology, music is more abundant than ever before and right at your fingertips. Here is a variety of music activities to consider: • Use an electronic device and create a personalized playlist with songs from your favorite genres • Turn your radio to a station that plays your preferred music • Check out YouTube and discover up-and-coming singers • Plan to attend a socially-distance outdoor summer concert in the community • Use online tutorials and learn to play an instrument like the piano, flute, violin or guitar With Village by the Shore, you can listen to your favorite music while participating in the Memoir Writing Workshop. The background music may help jolt some of your fondest memories as you capture your life’s experiences. During the Village’s Positivity Project, you can relax and meditate to the soothing sounds of waves, raindrops or even birds chirping as you participate in mindful self-care exercises. Also, this summer, several towns will offer outdoor music and movies including: Don McLean (Friday, July 2 on the Ocean City Music Pier), Sunset Cinema & Concert (Last Wednesday of each summer month on Ski Beach in Ventnor Heights) and Margate’s Beachstock 2021 (Saturday, June 26 between Huntington and Granville Avenues) to name a few. Be sure to check each town’s website for up-to-date information on concerts and events.

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Healthy Living New Dietary Guidelines for Seniors Good health is important at any age. Maintaining a healthy weight, using a nutritious dietary pattern and adopting an active lifestyle benefits each of us as we age. Start by introducing nutrient dense food and beverages into your regime which will provide vitamins, minerals and other healthful ingredients. It will also help to reduce added sugars, saturated fats and sodium. JFS Nurse Educator, Maggie Weaver, RN, suggests trying foods and beverages that are nutrient dense and with limited calories including: • Vegetables (beans, peas, and lentils as well as vegetables that are dark green, red or orange) Fruits (berries, apples, bananas – virtually all fruits) • • Dairy (fat-free or low-fat milk, yogurt and cheese) • Protein (lean meats, poultry, eggs, seafood, nuts and seeds)

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Apples

This recipe is an easy and healthy side dish for any time of the year!

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes YIELds: 4 servings Ingredients:

Try to watch the amount of sugar, saturated fats, and sodium as well as limit alcoholic beverages. The recommended daily amounts per day are: • Added Sugar – Less than 10% of calories • Saturated Fat – Less than 10% of calories • Sodium – Less than 2,300mg • Alcoholic Beverages – two drinks or less for men and one drink or less for women

A healthy eating routine is important at every stage of life. Choose options that are full of nutrients to make every bite count. You can create a healthy plate by using the recommendations below. • Make half of your plate fruits and vegetables. Use a rainbow of colors for variety • Make a quarter of your plate whole grains or starchy vegetables Make a quarter of your plate protein and vary your lean • meats, seafood and beans • Add low-fat or fat-free dairy milks or yogurts

To calculate calorie intake based on age, height, weight and physical activity, visit https://www.nal.usda.gov/fnic/dri-calculator/. For information on creating a healthy plate, visit www.myplate.gov. Each month, the Village by the Shore presents a free virtual program, Comfort Cuisine, hosted by Bernadette Getzler. You’ll learn how to cook your favorite recipes in new and inventive ways by taking existing ingredients and substituting healthier options. For information on this Village program, contact Tina Serota at tserota@jfsatlantic.org.

• 1 lb brussels sprouts, washed, trimmed and halved 1 • large Granny Smith apple, cored and diced • ¼ cup olive oil • 2 tablespoons maple syrup • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. 2. In a large bowl, combine the brussels sprouts and apple. Set aside. 3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup and balsamic vinegar. 4. Pour the olive oil mixture onto the brussels sprouts mixture and toss to coat. 5. Transfer the brussels sprouts onto a large baking sheet. Season liberally with salt and pepper. 6. Roast in oven for 15 - 20 minutes, turning once halfway through or until sprouts are tender and brown.

Note: For a low sugar option, omit the maple syrup.

Nutrition Information: (Average Per Serving) Calories: 276; Total Fat: 18g; Saturated Fat: 3g; Trans Fat: 0g; Unsaturated Fat: 14g; Cholesterol: 12mg; Sodium: 303mg; Carbohydrates: 23g; Fiber: 4g; Sugar: 14g; Protein: 7g

Member Spotlight BettyJane Rabinowitz “I hope the Village continues for a long time, it’s needed in our community,” explains BettyJane Rabinowitz, a Village by the Shore member for nearly four years. BettyJane takes advantage of all that the Village has to offer. "The benefits are great. The drivers have taken me in their chariots to doctor appointments and the hairdresser. I’ve received Kosher Meals on Wheels one or two times. The food is tasty and comes pre-packaged so you just need to heat it up,” said BettyJane. Perhaps her favorite component of the Village are the events. “I used to love attending the Coffee Klatch and luncheons before the pandemic. Now, the Village offers programs virtually and they are just as fun and interesting." The bespectacled, soft-spoken octogenarian, who stands barely five feet tall, makes a presence whether in-person or virtually. Her thirst for knowledge is also evident as she shares, “Even at my age, I still want to learn and understand everything I can whether it involves fixing a problem in the house, cooking a new version of a recipe or reading something in the newspaper.” It’s that same self-assured presence she displays when participating in the Village Zoom programs – Positivity Project, Nurse’s Roundtable, Comfort Cuisine, Bingo, Movie Society, and especially Trivia Game Day. “I’m a history buff so I really enjoy that category of the game,” said BettyJane. When not participating in the Village, BettyJane and her friends enjoy a weekly virtual book club, in which Hamlet is the novel the group is currently reading. She’s also taken up a new hobby, adult coloring books. “I use color pencils and work my way through the Vogue book coloring animals, women, fashion accessories and more. It’s wonderful for steadiness and fun to see the finished product,” BettyJane shared. However, she is looking forward when she can safely meet with her friends and go back to her other two hobbies, playing Mahjong and Canasta. A Margate, New Jersey, resident for more than 50 years, BettyJane was born in Philadelphia and raised in Atlantic City – right near the former high school. “I was a Labor & Delivery Nurse at the local hospital and then worked in a doctor’s office. When I met my husband, Samuel, I became a homemaker and enjoyed my proudest career – being a mother and raising our four children,” shared BettyJane. Today, BettyJane is beginning to enjoy the slow turn back to normalcy by spending time with some of her children and 12 grandchildren. Recently, her daughter visited and she was able to tightly hug her – something she hadn’t done in more than a year. “I so missed those warm hugs that I didn’t want to let go. As more family and friends get vaccinated, I’ll be able to spend more time with them and hopefully, the Village will also be able to get back in-person programs. Tina (Serota) has done a terrific job creating imaginative programs for the members. I am truly so glad I joined the Village.”

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Learn more about how neighbors are helping neighbors. Give back safely! JFS follows all CDC recommended COVID-19 guidelines. Vanessa Smith Volunteer Supervisor

609.822.1108 x249 vsmith@jfsatlantic.org

Village by the Shore 609.822.1109 • villagejfs@jfsatlantic.org 607 North Jerome Avenue, Margate, NJ 08402 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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