News from
Sarah Reed Senior Living
227 West 22nd Street
Erie, PA 16502
814-878-2600
www.sarahareed.org
April/May/June
2015
Happy Spring!
Spring is finally here, and there are exciting things happening at Sarah Reed Senior Living! After
much anticipation, our new bus has arrived. We continue to be blessed with generous donations
which enhance the lives of our residents. You can read more about these topics in this edition.
Gale Magyar, Executive Director, and Karen Brobst, Administrator, are spending countless hours on
the plans for the expansion to the skilled nursing building. The architectural drawings are being
finalized, as is the financing of the project. There are naming opportunities for donors who wish to
assist us by offering financial contributions. Our goal is a July groundbreaking.
We continue to enjoy high occupancy in our Residential & Personal Care apartments, the Special
Care Unit, and our Skilled Nursing and Short-Term Rehab areas. We encourage you to keep
referring family and friends to Sarah Reed. Our commitment to quality care and services is
paramount. As we forge ahead with our exciting plans, Sarah Reed will remain a preferred choice in
the Erie community.
W
Hitting the Road!
ith great excitement
we unveil the new
Sarah Reed Senior Living
Bus! This brand new 2015
Chevrolet
vehicle seats 14 passengers
and has a wheelchair lift.
The bus was purchased
through Hallman Chevrolet in Erie, and was built to
specifications out of town,
then delivered to
Hallman’s.
The residents are looking
forward to going on special outings and shopping trips in their new ride. We will also utilize the
vehicle to transport residents to and from their medical appointments.
The bus was funded through specified donations, a special holiday appeal, and the resident Special
Purpose Fund. We are truly grateful to the generous donors!
With a contemporary and fresh design, Sarah Reed residents will be travelling through Erie in style!
Give them a wave if you see them passing by.
Spotlight on Dining Services
We often hear the expression “Food is Life”! Dining and services offered
by the Dietary Department play an integral part in the lifestyle at Sarah
Reed.
The residents’ health and wellness is significantly supported through
socialization in the elegantly appointed dining rooms, and nutritious
home made meals. We offer the opportunity for residents to have guests
for meals with advance reservations, and have a private dining room for
special gatherings.
Our Food Service Director reports that “comfort foods” are among
residents’ favorites. They enjoy soups, meatloaf, mac and cheese, and traditional dinners. They also
love homemade donuts on Saturday mornings. A personal birthday cake is made for each resident on
their birthday.
The Dietary Department routinely offers presentations and information with topics that may be of interest to residents, and include health discussions regarding medications/food interactions, osteoporosis
and your diet, and more. Fun events, like chocolate tastings, penny candy history, tea parties are also
offered. Residents may also consult with the dietitians regarding their specific dietary concerns.
Featured on these pages is a special presentation and nutrition tips offered by one of our dietitians.
History of Cookies Presentation
Jumbles, Plunkets, and Cry Babies, oh my! Last month, Kerry Clelland,
Sarah Reed’s Food Service Director and Registered Dietitian, treated the
residents to a presentation on the History of Cookies. Our residents learned
that these puzzling and whimsical terms were names given to cookies in
early American cookbooks.
Kerry researched and shared some really fun and interesting “Cookie Facts”.
The first cookies were created by accident. Cooks used a small amount of
cake batter to test their oven temperature before baking a large cake. These
little test cakes were called “koekje” meaning “little cake” in Dutch. These
“little cakes”, which we now call cookies, are made with sweet dough or
batter, and are baked in single-sized servings or as dessert. Cookies are
consumed in 95.2 % of the U.S. households. Americans alone consume over
2 billion cookies a year, or 300 cookies annually for each person!
Did you know that many states have a designated state cookie??? Kerry learned that there are several
bills which have been sponsored and introduced to adopt the
chocolate chip cookie as the official cookie of the Commonwealth of
PA. The most recent bill was introduced in 2003. The House and
Senate have been in disagreement or debate since these bills were
introduced. The bills have been tabled so as of this writing
Pennsylvania is without a state cookie!
Of course no cookie presentation would be complete without a
sampling of many of the cookies discussed! Our staff baker, Renee,
whipped up batches of some of the favorites: peanut butter cookies,
sugar cookies, snickerdoodles, and of course, chocolate chips! The
attending residents really enjoyed this event.
Page 2
THE REEDER
Health Benefits of the Mediterranean Lifestyle
Research has shown that following a Mediterranean diet can reduce the chance of developing
conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity and even Alzheimer's disease; Studies suggest that this diet may help keep aging brains sharp, promoting decreased loss of cognitive function, memory, and alertness. For some, the diet may also reduce
the need for certain medications by helping to prevent many of the chronic conditions where
treatment may indicate the use of these medications.
Ultimately, the Mediterranean diet represents a healthy lifestyle choice.
General Principles










Maximize your intake of vegetables, peas and beans
(legumes), fruits and whole-grain cereals.
Limit your red meat intake - fish and poultry are healthy
substitutes.
Where possible, use mono-unsaturated olive oil or canola
oil in place of animal fat such as butter or lard.
Limit your intake of highly processed 'fast foods' and
'ready meals', which can be high in saturated fat and salt.
Eat moderate amounts of dairy products, preferably lowfat ones.
Avoid adding salt at the dinner table. Use herbs and saltfree seasonings instead.
Snack on fruit, dried fruit and unsalted nuts rather than
cakes, crisps and biscuits.
Drink (red) wine during meals, but no more than two small glasses (6 oz. each) a day for men
and no more than one small glass a day for women.
Water is the best 'non-alcoholic beverage' (as opposed to sugary drinks), although health
benefits have also been claimed for various teas and coffee.
Exercise – whatever you can tolerate will help preserve muscle mass and reduce risks of poor
health.
Mediterranean Diet on the Cheap
Buy sale items in bulk, as long as you can use them prior to the use-by/expiration date.
Try canned (low sodium where available) and frozen fruits and vegetables, which are processed at their peak nutrient value and quality.
Purchase fruits and vegetables in season. This spring, enjoy asparagus, spinach, and strawberries, just to name a few.
Your slow cooker can tenderize less expensive but tougher cuts of meat.
Cook in large batches and freeze. Freeze single-sized servings and pull out later for a quick
meal for just one or two.
Use those discount cards and coupons. Scan the sale circulars and use them on sale items
and save big.
Page 3
The Spirit of Giving
The Reed Terrace Lounge has a new addition! A fantastic,
huge, flat screen TV was recently donated by a generous
anonymous donor. The residents enjoy having this new
amenity. Stop by the lounge to check it out. It’s also a great
way to view Sarah Reed’s in house TV channel, and get all
the information about activities and menus.
We have been very fortunate over the years with gifts and
resources from giving programs and fundraising events.
Every donation is greatly appreciated. As we embark on the
building expansion and renovation projects, we explore
many avenues for funding. There are naming opportunities
for recognizing or memorializing loved ones. As with the
television donation, we respect the wishes of donors who
wish to remain anonymous.
For those who may be receiving a tax refund, or doing some financial planning, please consider Sarah Reed
in your plans. Following are some ways you can help:
 Make a cash gift any time!
 Make a cash gift in memory or honor of a loved one.
 Participate in Sarah’s Fall Fling, our fun-filled, annual fundraising extravaganza!
 Include Sarah Reed in your will, by giving cash, stocks, bonds, mutual fund shares, or personal property.
This may provide tax savings!
 Consider establishing a charitable remainder trust to Sarah Reed Senior Living. This benefits you by providing you with income and tax savings while supporting our mission.
 Consider naming us as a beneficiary of a life insurance policy or annuity.
For contributions of $1,000 or more, your name will be engraved on our beautiful Giving Tree, located in our
main atrium. Your donation will also be noted in our annual report. Monetary donations can be made for
various projects or left to our Board’s discretion as to use. We are available to discuss your goals and funding preferences.
The Legacy Guild
Legacy Guild members are considered commitment leaders among those who give
to Sarah Reed Senior Living. Through gifts and pledges they have made a significant impact upon the lives of current and future residents. Three distinct giving
levels fall within The Legacy Guild:
Founders – $100,000 or more
Investors – $50,000 to $99,999
Leaders – $10,000 to $49,999
These legacy contributions are recognized by large dominate engraved elements on
the Giving Tree. Founders’ names are engraved on brass benches at the base of the
tree. Investors’ names are engraved on plaques depicting Swallows among the tree;
and Leaders’ names are engraved on Rose Buds.
Major Giving Society
Major Giving Society members are among those who understand the need to give back to the community.
They give so that we can carry on Sarah Reed’s mission to future generations. Contributions are recognized
as follows: Gold leaves – $5,000 to $9,999
Silver leaves – $2,500 to $4,999
Bronze leaves – $1,000 to $2,499
For more information on contributing contact Gale Magyar, Executive Director at 814-878-2610 or email
[email protected]. We are a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. We are a charitable organization, so all
gifts and monetary donations are tax deductible to the full extent of the law.
Page 4
THE REEDER
We at Sarah Reed Senior Living
celebrate our residents. Your
wisdom, experience, and service to
our community is valued. Thank you
for touching our lives!
Older adults are a vital part of our society. Communities across the country have shown their gratitude by celebrating Older Americans Month each May. This year, in honor of the 50th anniversary of
the Older Americans Act (OAA), the focus is on how older adults are taking charge of their health,
getting engaged in their communities, and making a positive impact in their lives and lives of others.
The theme for Older Americans Month 2015 is Get into the Act.
When Older Americans Month was established in 1963, only 17 million living Americans had reached
their 65th birthday. About a third of older Americans lived in poverty and there were few programs to
meet their needs. Interest in older Americans and their concerns was growing. A meeting in April 1963
between President John F. Kennedy and members of the National Council of Senior Citizens led to designating May as “Senior Citizens Month,” the prelude to “Older Americans Month.”
Historically, Older Americans Month has been a time to acknowledge the contributions of past and
current older persons to our country, in particular those who defended our country. Every President
since Kennedy has issued a formal proclamation during or before the month of May which asks the
entire nation to pay tribute in some way to older persons in their communities.
The theme “Get into the Act” also reflects on the 50th anniversary of the Older Americans Act. President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Older Americans Act into law in July 1965. Since that time, the Act
has provided a nationwide aging services network and funding that helps older adults live with dignity in the communities of their choice for as long as possible.
At Sarah Reed we provide services to older adults that truly help them “Get into the Act”. Many of
our apartment residents enjoy the Silver Sneakers exercise program offered here. Others participate in
crafting groups that provide items and raise funds for children in need. Our short-term rehab residents engage in challenging rehabilitation so they may return to their prior level of living and regain
their independence in the community. Residents who have made Sarah Reed their permanent home
engage in music programs, games, and restorative nursing programs which enhance their level of
functioning. The social interaction they experience with visitors from clergy, volunteers, and community groups, such as Scouts, empowers them to actively share their wisdom.
Thanks go out to our residents, for “Getting into the Act”!
Sarah Reed Senior Living Welcomes New Board Members
Please join in welcoming two new Board Members to Sarah Reed’s Board of Directors. Mr. Sydney
Smith is a graduate of The Pennsylvania State University and has retired from Union City Chair Company as President and General Manager. Sid volunteers for Love in the Name of Christ and has been a
past board member of several boards including Union City Memorial Hospital, Union City Foundation,
Northwest PA Manufacturers Assn., Union Township Municipal Authority, St. Vincent Board of Incorporators, Beaverdam Mennonite Church and Ohio Mennonite Conference Board.
Mrs. Barbara Johnson is a graduate of Mercyhurst College and retired as Director from Flagship Niagara League. She volunteers for Habitat for Humanity and the Millcreek Government Study Commission. Barb has served several boards, including Habitat for Humanity, Flagship Niagara League and
Zeta Tau Alpha Fraternity.
Sid and Barb are excellent additions to Sarah Reed’s Board as they bring years of non-profit experience
and a fresh perspective to our board. Welcome Sid and Barb!
Page 5
Staff Anniversaries
Congratulations to Chris Czarkowski,
Laundry Department, who celebrated 25 years
of service and is congratulated by supervisors
Mary DiMarco and Debbie Mann.
Lorraine Dietlin, Laundry Department,
celebrates her 10th Anniversary and is
congratulated by her
supervisors! Congratulations Lorraine!
Thank You To Our Volunteers!
Sarah Reed Senior Living would like to extend their deepest and sincere appreciation to its volunteers; they are dedicated and committed to providing a service that enhances the lives of others.
Our volunteers provide a variety of services, such as assisting residents, caring for the library, pet
therapy, assisting with activities and with special parties and functions, all functions of Sarah’s Attic, assisting with holiday decorations and events, calling bingo, Eucharistic ministry and religious
events, music programs and more.
We applaud our volunteers for their constant dedication and they truly deserve our deepest appreciation. Thank you for your willingness to give to others!
Professional Recognition Weeks
Long Term Care
Administrators Week
March 16-20
Administrative
Professionals Week
April 20-24
Licensed Nursing
Recognition Week
May 4-8
Thank you for your dedication and service to our residents!
Page 6
THE REEDER
News Around Sarah Reed
Suzanne Weschler, RN announces the
engagement of her son David Weschler to
Nicole DiTullio. Nicole and Dave are
planning their destination wedding on the
sunny beaches of Riviera Maya, Mexico on
October 10, 2015. Congratulations!
Who Knew She Could Dance?
Marie Dreyfus, Accounting Department,
performed the Kaamulan Dance, February
14th at the Mary D’Angelo Performing
Arts Center with ladies from Ohio & Erie.
The Erie Festival of Dance takes place
every 2 years and is by invitation only.
Pictured above is Lauren Dreyfus, Daughter
of Marie Dreyfus, Accounting. Lauren is
pictured finishing up a week at the Film
Academy in NYC. This summer Lauren will
head to Los Angeles Film Academy and
hopefully next year to Paris.
Welcome Emma Grace!
Krista Peeters, Social Worker, her husband Christopher and big sister Clare are excited to announce
the arrival of Emma Grace Peeters. Emma was
born on Thursday, February 5, 2015 at 8:23am. She
weighed 7 lbs, 5 oz. and was 21" long. Clare is over
the moon in love with her little sister!
Page 7
Board of Directors
President
Terrence Carlin
Directors
Thomas Aaron
William Coleman
Vice President
Janet Dean
Michele Cavalier
Barbara Johnson
Corresponding Secretary Mitchell Kalkhof
Camilla Decker
Anne Jane Kulhanek
Linda Liken
Recording Secretary
Mary Lou Neithamer
Jane Carney
Penny Qualls
Treasurer
Carol Lee Restifo
Georgia English
Sydney Smith
Assistant Treasurer
Cheryl Wiegle
Charles Kibler
Past President
Attorney Joel Snavely
Resident Council
Reed Manor Representatives
First Floor
Millie Kuntz
Second Floor John Kinsinger
Third Floor
Jane Joslin
Fourth Floor Paul Ostergaard
Reed Terrace Representatives
First Floor
Bob Moore
Theresa Steadman
Second Floor Wallace Brumagin
Helen Johnson
Members-At-Large
Open—Terrace
Marilyn Stansbury—Manor
Reed House
Open - RH1
Carole Smith - RH 2
We appreciate your referrals!
If you know anyone in need of our services feel free to share our contact information:
Tours and Information for Residential Apartments, Personal Care & Memory Support
Carey Vieira – 814-878-2651
[email protected]
Tours and Information for Skilled Nursing Care
Dina Scribner – 814-878-2626
[email protected]
Readers:
If you would like to receive future editions of The Reeder via
Email, or if you have news that you would like to share, please
email Debbie Redditt at [email protected] or call
814-878-2612.
The Reeder is a quarterly
publication of Sarah Reed Senior
Living. Chartered as Erie’s First
Welfare Agency in 1871, Sarah
Reed is a private non-profit
corporation committed to providing a
comprehensive approach to
retirement living.
It provides this through a continuum
of care for its residents in a secure
and supportive environment by
offering quality health care and
services as well as opportunities for
mental, physical, recreational and
spiritual programs at a reasonable
cost.
Page 8