STATE OF TEXAS
April/May/June 2016
Volume 18, Issue 2
The Abilene State
Supported Living Center
Mission: To empower
people to make choices
that result in a life
of dignity and increased
independence.
Straight Talk by Linda Hinshaw
Inside this issue:
New Employees
Pg 2
Classifieds
Pg 3
Appreciations
Pg 4-5
Let’s Dance
Pg 6
Spring Formal
Pg 7
Extreme Heat Safety
Pg 8
Chaplain’s Corner
Pg 10
Recreation Calendar
Pg 11
Special Olympics
Pg 12
I am HHS
Pg 13
Department News
14-17
Service Awards
Pg 18
Who Rahs
Pg 21
IRIS
IS
HERE!
P.O. Box 451; Abilene, Texas 79604
We had a very good annual survey this year. We did
receive a few standard level deficiencies which we
have corrected. We invited the ICF team to return
June 6 to clear us. They have already returned and
we were cleared of all deficiencies It was a very thorough survey with about 25 surveyors on campus that
week, including two over site surveyors from CMS.
Our training of IRIS our new electronic health record has begun. This is
a very exciting time for us and a little scary. There will be some bumps
along the way, but in the long run it will make things easier for staff in
documenting and ultimately improve the lives of the people we serve.
Our go live date was July 11, 2016. We have people in all departments
on all shifts that are called “superusers.” They have some extra training
and are available to help staff if they run into problems. Many of our
professional staff have worked with electronic health records in other
work settings and will easily adjust to our new systems. For others it will
take a little practice.
We have two major renovation projects starting this summer. The first
one is renovation of all of the showers at the cottages. They will start at
6700 which is an activity center now. Once it is complete then the next
home will move there while their cottage is renovated. Families will be
notified as this happens. The other project involves the central kitchen.
Both of these projects will take a few months to complete, but when
finished will better support the people who live here. We ask for patience
as these projects progress!
Page 2
Maple Street Messenger
Volume 18, Issue 2
New Employees
Alvarez, Aldo – Home 6500
Baker, Shakierra – Home 5972
Barnes III, Charles – Home 6350
Benavides, Selena – Home 5972
Black, Aaliyah – Home 6480
Brown, Collin – Home 6740
Burns, Susan – Home 5972
Cate, Casey – Home 6330
Cockerham, Kylie – Home 6750
Gutierrez, Amanda – Home 6510
Hall, Treya – Home 6720
Holmes, Allison – Home 6360
Robbins, Garrett – Home 6360
Rogers, Shelby – Home 6510
Valero, Vicente – Home 6380
Vieth, Douglas – Home 6730
Renfroe, Desirae - Nursing
Cortes, John – Food Service
Jimenez, Jessie - Maintenance
Casey, Kayla – Home 6500
Crowe, Kelsey – Home 6522
Daniels, Cheyenne – Home 6480
Henry, Tanner – Home 6330
Huckabee, Kristina – Home 6360
Huckaby, Liddie -Home 6360
Hutson, Jamie – Home 5972
Miller, Samantha – Home 6690
Morris, Jimmy – Home 6710
Portillo, Adriana - Home 6522
Watkins, Nancy – Home 6690
DeMone, Pamela - Medical
Shipman, William – Food Service
Bryan, Huey – Information Serv.
Culpepper, Ashley – Home 6510
Haberle, Sharelaine – Home 6450
Lachuga, Christina – Home 6500
Lopez, John – Home 6330
Schaffner, Christopher – Hm 6720
Townes, Innelia – Home 6521
Valencia, Bree – Home 6521
Zimmerman, Janelle – Home 6740
Cedillo, Roman – Home 6330
Dickie, Wes – Home 6380
Kekombe, Elie – Home 6330
Livingston, Sequoia – Home 6500
Mendez, Evelyn – Home 5971
Muffett, Marion – Home 6521
Raborn, Amanda – Home 6360
Rice, Steven – Home 6740
Schmidt, Jay – Home 6710
Stone, Lisa – Home 6720
Tejeda, Taylor – Home 5972
Fowler, Rhonda - Housekeeping
Baird, Walter “Dale” - Grounds
Cauthen, Vonda – Voc. Services
Allen, Cody – Home 5972
Almager, Samantha – Home 6521
Barfield, Ty – Home 6360
Barnes, Linda – Home 6521
Bennett, Siera – Home 6500
Boland, Levin – Home 6730
Daniels, Brenne – Home 6760
Flores, Oscar – Home 6380
Kekombe, Magloire – Home 6521
Larkin, Kyra – Home 6450
Lopez, Jeanette - Home 6480
Perez Lopez, Leonardo – Home 6720
Martinez, Anjelica – Home 6510
Martinez, Ashley – Home 6522
Mason, Michelle – Home 5971
Rangel, Karla – Home 6360
Robbins, Crystal – Home 6510
Rocha, Mandy – Home 6400
Shaw, Zachary – Home 6330
Shirk, Ruth – Home 6750
Spitler, Alissa – Home 5971
Valenzuela, Summer – Home 6522
Wilber, Andrea – Home 6522
Arledge, Tiffany – Home 6500
Bates, Stepanie – Home 6400
Brooks, Thelma – Home 6500
Cardona, Vanessa – Home 6500
Cerda, Alexis – Home 6521
Cholewinski, Alisha – Home 5972
Clay, Zyerra – Home 6400
Colon, Amy – Home 6690
Cooper, Goldie – Home 6400
Dixon, Lacresha – Home 6500
Ellsworth, Lenora – Home 6360
Erwin, Brenda – Home 6510
Estrada, Ashley – Home 6480
Fageyinbo, Bukola – Home 6510
Favors, Dajaa – Home 5972
Finch, Cody – Home 6380
Guerra, Ashley – Home 6400
Jordan, Devante – Home 5971
Lang, Hallie – Home 6690
Langham, Pamela – Home 6500
Martinez, Mark - Nursing
McClain, Brianna – Home 6720
McGowen, Cari – Home 6760
Mizero, Yves – Home 6522
Moreno, Klarissa – Home 6500
Nkundabatwore, Fubrice – Home 6522
Podrovitz, Anthony – Home 6350
Ramirez, Rita – Home 6510
Randle, Deborah – Home 6480
Rodriguez, Arturo – Home 6500
Ruzoviyo, Bakina – Home 6760
Span, Andre – Home 6500
Sparks, Sandra – Home 6330
Strebeck, Tiffany – Home 6510
Strickland, Lucia – Home 6480
Turner, Tayvia – Home 6480
Washington, Tanesha – Home 5972
Walker, Terance – Home 6740
Weeks, Summer – Home 5971
Box Tommy - Nursing
Brown, Jamie – Hab Therapies
Ely, Kimberly – Hab Therapies
Malone, Margaret – Food Service
Cortez, Daisy – Food Service
Hutchinson, Holly – Food Service
Markello, Bradley – Food Service
McElrath, Justin - Food Service
Womack, Linda – Food Service
Martinez, Anita - Laundry
McClure, Curtis - Maintenance
Garcia, Ashley - Recreation
Silva, Alisha - Recreation
Beltran, Enrique – Home 6380
Castillo, Bryan – Home 6730
Garcia, Larissa – Home 6521
Gilbreath, Dakota – Home 6720
Harris, Alexus – Home 6510
Jiminez, Tina – Home 6521
Lopez, Alfredo – Home 6380
Muhorakeye, Jocelyn – Home 6522
Pirie, Isaiah – Home 6480
Rodriguez, Cami – Home 6522
Salas, Jacqueline – Home 6510
Torres, Devin – Home 6740
Wrenn, JayCie – Home 6750
Newton, Penny - Housekeeping
DeLaPaz, Samantha-Housekeeping
Subba, Man Maya - Housekeeping
Trimble, Desiree – Food Service
Arredondo, Jessica – Food Service
McGuire, Rita - Nursing
Hayes, Tracy - Dental
Kaufmann, Brandi–Behavioral Serv.
Maple Street Messenger
Volume 18, Issue 2
Page 3
Classifieds
I am an Ambassador of Plexus Worldwide which is a Health
and Wellness company. Designed to get you healthy from the
inside out, helps you sleep better, gives you energy, helps
lower blood sugars, weight loss, curves those sugar cravings
and so much more. The beauty of it is you don’t have to get
on a special diet or exercise, it does work. For more
information call Rhnetta Beaver 325-668-1715.
Fresh Farm Eggs! $3.00 per dozen or
15 mph
is the maximum speed
limit on campus.
$4.00 for 18 count. Call Pam at 660-6742.
Hepatitis B Shots
Hepatitis B shots will be
given at TR from 7 am
to 9 pm on
July 27th,
August 24th,
September 28th &
October 26th
As a Reminder:
All employees, agents, contractors, and volunteers who suspect or have knowledge of, or
who are involved in an allegation of abuse,
neglect, or exploitation, must comply with the
following reporting requirements. Allegations
of abuse, neglect, or exploitation must be
reported immediately ( within one (1) hour) to
the Director or designee and then to DFPS
(1-800-647-7418).
Retaliation will not be tolerated. If you feel that
you have been subjected to retaliation
because you in good faith reported an allegation of abuse, neglect, or exploitation you must
report this to the Director.
Self Advocates meetings
are
the 2nd Tuesday
There is now a Spanish
language translation of the
State Supported Living
Abilene State Supported
Living Center
is on the web:
www.absslc.org
Maple Street Messenger
Volume 18, Issue 2
Page 4
Thank You…..
To each department that was responsible for the formal dance in April 2016
“THANK YOU”. It was an awesome
event and everything was beautiful.
From the staff who took their time for
the event and who dressed the
residents, to Transportation, to
Recreation, to the decorating
committee—you each went up &
beyond. Thanks to you, James Wells
(Home 6500) and I had a very special
evening! Good Job! Your thoughtfulness is truly appreciated. Thank you!
Calvin and Jody Wells Sharp
Parents of James Wells
Cisco College student juggles schoolwork, job and family..
This article ran in Abilene Reporter-News (TX): 5/12/2016 regarding our own Misty Jordan!
Loretta Fulton
Misty Jordan has a simple answer for how she managed to go to college, work full time, be an attentive wife to
a husband who also works and goes to college, and raise four children.
"We just juggle as much as possible," she said.
The juggling won't end after Jordan, 27, gets her associate degree in vocational nursing Thursday night from
Cisco College, but she will have something to show for it. Once she has her associate degree in hand, Jordan
plans to continue classes at the school's Abilene campus to become a registered nurse.
And, she will continue working at the Abilene State Supported Living Center, the place that made her realize
she wanted to be a nurse.
A native of Slaton, Jordan began working at the Lubbock State Supported Living Center before moving to
Abilene, where she works as a night supervisor. Getting to know the residents on a personal level inspired
Jordan to want to do more than supervise.
"They need nurses who care about them," she said, and decided she could be that nurse.
Jordan and 10 other Cisco College students will receive associate degrees in vocational nursing at 6:30 p.m.
Thursday at First Baptist Church of Abilene. At 7 p.m. Friday, the college's vocational training students will get
their certificates in a ceremony that also will be held at First Baptist Church.
Thursday night's ceremony will be a little extra special for the nursing students. The date -- May 12 -- couldn't
be more appropriate. It also happens to be the birthday of Florence Nightingale, considered the founder of
modern nursing.
Nightingale was born May 12, 1820, in Florence, Italy, and made a name for herself as a nurse during the
Crimean War, 1853-1856. A highlight of Thursday's graduation will be the pinning ceremony, when the future
licensed vocational nurses get a pin that traces to the nurse badge given by Queen Victoria to Nightingale in
1855. The nurse badge was called the Red Cross of St. George.
Even without that historical tidbit, Jordan would have plenty to look forward to. She's on path to a career she
loves and she can check one goal off her list. Her next goal is becoming a registered nurse.
Maple Street Messenger
Volume 18, Issue 2
Law Enforcement Appreciation Week
May 15-21
May 15-21 is designated as Law
Enforcement Appreciation Week.
The spouses of police officer’s here
in Abilene decorate the Law
Enforcement Center with pictures,
cards and banners to show them
the support from the community,
schools and spouses. Our very
own Jill Antilley who is the wife of
Officer Rusty Antilley asked if the
Activity Centers would want to join
in on the decorations to show the Police Department support from the people who live and work here. The
Activity Centers did an amazing job and their posters were hung in the hallways of the Law Enforcement
Center. Thank you to all who participated in making these great posters!
This thank you was received by a staff
member and I thought I would share!
I just wanted to take the time to thank you
all as administrators of this facility for your
support of Law Enforcement Officers. As a
LEO/DPS wife, this last week has really
been hard, I started crying when I saw this
mounted to the front gate as I was leaving
the other day-it had been such a sad, hard
time for police following the Dallas shootings. This facility has always been supportive of our service men and women and
those serving in law enforcement, fire, and
EMS departments; I am so grateful for that.
I know something like this sign might not
mean much to some, but it means the world
to me. If you don't hear it from anyone else,
thank you for supporting law enforcement
officers and their families. It makes it a lot
easier to send loved ones into the chaos
when I know that they have more than their
spouses, kids, and family behind them. It is
an honor to work here.
Thank you!
Page 5
Maple Street Messenger
Volume 18, Issue 2
Let’s Dance!
Page 6
Spring Formal
2016
Volume 18, Issue 2
Maple Street Messenger
Page 8
Extreme Heat Safety
Texas summers mean extreme heat and, in many areas, high humidity. Regions throughout the state experience multiple triple digit
temperature days during the summer months. Extreme heat can pose a serious health concern to both humans and animals. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are more heat related deaths each year than those caused by hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, earthquakes, and floods combined! It is important to protect yourself, your family, and your pets from
the dangers of extreme heat by taking precautionary measures before and during a heat event.
BEFORE EXTREME HEAT
Ready.gov suggests the following steps to prepare for extreme heat:
•
•
•
•
To begin preparing, you should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
•
•
Weather-strip doors and sills to keep cool air in.
•
•
•
Keep storm windows up all year.
•
Be aware that people living in urban areas may be at greater risk from the effects of a prolonged heat wave than are people living in rural areas.
•
Get trained in first aid to learn how to treat heat-related emergencies.
Install window air conditioners snugly; insulate if necessary.
Check air-conditioning ducts for proper insulation.
Install temporary window reflectors (for use between windows and drapes), such as aluminum foil-covered cardboard, to reflect
heat back outside.
Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings, or louvers. (Outdoor awnings or louvers can
reduce the heat that enters a home by up to 80 percent.)
Listen to local weather forecasts and stay aware of upcoming temperature changes.
Know those in your neighborhood who are elderly, young, sick or overweight. They are more likely to become victims of excessive heat and may need help.
DURING EXTREME HEAT
During an extreme heat event, Ready.gov recommends the following actions:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
Listen to NOAA Weather Radio for critical updates from the National Weather Service (NWS).
Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.
Stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available.
Postpone outdoor games and activities.
Consider spending the warmest part of the day in public buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping
malls, and other community facilities. Circulating air can cool the body by increasing the perspiration rate of evaporation.
Eat well-balanced, light, and regular meals. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
Drink plenty of water; even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine. Persons who have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or
liver disease; are on fluid-restricted diets; or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid
intake.
Limit intake of alcoholic beverages.
Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible. Avoid dark colors because they
absorb the sun’s rays.
Protect face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.
Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat, and take frequent
breaks.
Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.
Avoid extreme temperature changes.
Check on your animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat.
Go to a designated public shelter if your home loses power during periods of extreme heat. Text SHELTER + your ZIP code to
43362 (4FEMA) to find the nearest shelter in your area (example: shelter 12345).
Maple Street Messenger
Volume 18, Issue 2
Page 9
Raw Dough’s a Raw Deal and Could Make You Sick
Do you find it hard to resist gobbling up a piece of raw dough when making
cookies, or letting your children scrape the bowl? Do your kids use raw
dough to make ornaments or homemade “play” clay? Do you eat at family
restaurants that give kids raw dough to play with while you’re waiting for
the food?
If your answer to any of those questions is yes, that could be a problem.
Eating raw dough or batter—whether it’s for bread, cookies, pizza or tortillas—could make you, and your kids, sick, says Jenny Scott, a senior advisor
in FDA’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition.
According to Scott, the bottom line for you and your kids is don’t eat raw
dough. And even though there are websites devoted to “flour crafts,” don’t
give your kids raw dough or baking mixes that contain flour to play with.
Why? Flour, regardless of the brand, can contain bacteria that cause disease.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), along with the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state and local officials, is investigating an outbreak of infections that illustrates the dangers of eating raw dough. Dozens of people across the country have
been sickened by a strain of bacteria called Shiga toxin-producing E. coli O121.
The investigation found that raw dough eaten or handled by some of the patients was made with General Mills flour produced in
a Kansas City, Missouri, facility. Subsequent tests by the FDA linked bacteria in a flour sample to bacteria from people who had
become ill.
General Mills conducted a voluntary recall of 10 million pounds of flour sold under three brand names: Gold Medal, Signature
Kitchen’s, and Gold Medal Wondra. The varieties include unbleached, all-purpose, and self-rising flours. Flour has a long shelf
life, and many people store bags of flour for a long time. If you have any of these recalled items in your home, you should throw
them away.
Some of the recalled flours had been sold to restaurants that allow children to play with dough made from the raw flour while
waiting for their meals. CDC is advising restaurants not to give customers raw dough.
Symptoms and Who Gets Sick
Common symptoms for Shiga toxin-producing E. coli are diarrhea (often bloody) and abdominal cramps, although most people
recover within a week. But some illnesses last longer and can be more severe, resulting in a type of kidney failure called hemolytic
uremic syndrome (HUS). HUS can occur in people of any age, but is most common in young children under 5 years, older adults,
and people with weakened immune systems.
Parents of young children should be particularly aware. For instance, if your child is in day care or kindergarten, a common pastime may be art using “play” clay that is homemade from raw dough. Even if they’re not munching on the dough, they’re putting
their hands in their mouth after handling the dough. Childcare facilities and preschools should discourage the practice of playing
with raw dough.
Handle Foods Safely
FDA offers these tips for safe food handling to keep you and your family healthy:
• Do not eat any raw cookie dough, cake mix, batter, or any other raw dough or batter product that is supposed to be cooked
or baked.
• Follow package directions for cooking products containing flour at proper temperatures and for specified times.
• Wash hands, work surfaces, and utensils thoroughly after contact with flour and raw dough products.
• Keep raw foods separate from other foods while preparing them to prevent any contamination that may be present from
spreading. Be aware that flour may spread easily due to its powdery nature.
• Follow label directions to chill products containing raw dough promptly after purchase until baked.
This article appears on FDA’s Consumer Updates page, which features the latest on all FDA-regulated products
Maple Street Messenger
Volume 18, Issue 2
Page 10
“Spiritual” Myopia...” by Chaplain Billy C. Spencer
According to Webster’s Ninth New Collegiate Dictionary, “myopia” is:
(1) “… a condition in which the visual images come to a focus in front of the
retina of the eye resulting esp. in defective vision of distant objects” (near
sightedness); (2) “a lack of foresight or discernment: a narrow view of something…”
I stress the second condition. I content it to be far more prevalent
than the first condition. Not even close! It is rife in the human race.
The vast majority of people on the planet are far more concerned with corrective lenses for the physical
eyes than for foresight and discernment of the heart, mind, spirit, or attitude.
Have you ever had someone say to you, “You mean you cannot see it?! It’s as obvious as the nose on
your face!”? Or how about, “You can’t see the forest for the trees!”? Or, have you to yourself remarked, “I can’t
believe I missed that … it was right there all the time!”?
Myopia. “Spiritual myopia!”
In this “One Nation under God” we have largely lost the ability to see the presence, love, grace, and
goodness of God. Is it because we need corrective lenses … or because we have chosen NOT to see?!
In the Gospel of Luke, chapter 11, verses 33-36, Jesus spoke about lighting a lamp … does one put it
under a bed, or cover it with a bucket, or place it in a dark cellar? No, one puts it in the open, on a lampstand
for all to see and to give light to all in the room. He said the eye is the lamp of the body, and if the eye is sound
(functions correctly), then the whole body is full of light. But if the eye is diseased (or dysfunctional), then the
body is full of darkness.
Luke intends us to understand that Jesus was
the Light of the World, sent by God to illumine the entire
race … on a lampstand for all to see … nothing hidden or
obscured. He was out in the open. The problem was not
with the Light!
The problem was with the perception of those
who looked upon the Light! The remarkable thing: they
were the custodians and teachers of God’s Word … the
religious leaders of the day, who were called and commissioned to perceive and dispense the Light! And they
missed it!
Jesus told them to be careful that the light in
them was not darkness! They saw him heal the sick,
give sight to the blind, and hearing to the deaf … and
attributed His power to Satan rather than to God!
People can be so filled with rage, hatred, greed, jealousy, and resentment that they cannot “see” the
truth before them. For them, light has truly become darkness.
Had a spiritual eye exam lately? We all need one … on a regular basis! “Spiritual Myopia” is both
prevalent … and contagious!
But there is a remedy! It is a changed heart … a renewed spirit … a sensitive and responded soul. Get
that healthy and focused, and your whole life will be filled with Light. Make a conscious decision to oppose …
to deny the Light, and there will be the absence of Light … Darkness. Your choice and your call …
Maple Street Messenger
Volume 18, Issue 2
July
August
7/04
Independence Day Holiday
8/18
Rec Annual Training—All Programs Closed
7/11
IRIS “Go Live Week”
8/19
Rec Annual Training—All Programs Closed
7/11
Food Trucks (Cinema Parking Lot)
8/25
Country/Western Dance @ Gym, 3:00 pm
7/12
Popcorn to be delivered!
8/30
Birthday Parties
7/13
Watermelon served at the Gym.
8/31
Birthday Parties
Melon Festival @ Gym
7/14
Snow Cones (Will be delivered)
7/15
Free Cokes (at the Diner)
7/21
Special Karaoke Dance @ Gym, 6:30 pm
7/28
Birthday Parties
7/29
Birthday Parties
7/29
Blood Drive, 10 am—2 pm
September
October
9/05
Labor Day Holiday
10/01
9/12
West Texas Fair, Expo Center, 10 am-8 pm
10/04-07 State Music Festival
9/13
West Texas Fair, Expo Center, 10 am-8 pm
10/12-16 State Special Olympics Bocce Tournament
9/14
West Texas Fair, Expo Center, 10 am-8 pm
10/27
Fall Festival
9/22
First Day of Fall
10/28
Birthday Parties
9/22-24 Special Olympics Bocce Tournament hosted at
Centennial Park (8-5 each day)
9/23
Blood Drive, 10 am—2 pm
9/29
Birthday Parties
9/30
Birthday Parties
Family Day Picnic (Centennial Park)
Page 11
Maple Street Messenger
Page 12
Volume 18, Issue 2
Athletes from all over Texas participated in the Special Olympic Summer Games in May 26th through 28th, 2016
at Maverick Stadium in Fort Worth. There were 3026 athletes that participated in various sports. There were
1388 athletes, including athletes from AbSSLC that participated in the track and field events.
Liana Gibson
1st 50 Meter
st
1 Standing Long Jump
Josephine Cheatham
Jessica Perkins
1st 25 Meter walk
rd
3 in Tennis Ball Throw
Ann Young
4th 50 Meter
nd
2 Softball Throw
3rd 50 Meter walk
st
1 Tennis Ball Throw
Sharon Culbert
Stephanie Marcellus
2nd 10 Meter w/c
rd
3 in Softball Throw
2nd 50 Meter walk
6th Softball Throw
Bryan Daigle
4th 50 Meter
3 Softball Throw
rd
David Minyard
5th 50 Meter
4 Softball Throw
th
Charlie Caroland
2nd Softball Throw
Steve West
1st 50 Meter walk
2nd Softball Throw
Virginia Scarcella
1st 10 Meter w/c
1 in Tennis Ball Throw
st
Congratulations to all
of the competitors!!
Maple Street Messenger
Volume 18, Issue 2
Page 13
We Are ... Health and Human Services
Each week the Connection features employees who provide wonderful customer service to
the people of Texas and fellow staff members. Our own Diana Workman was in a recent
issue of The Connection. Congratulations Diana!
I am HHS… Diana Workman, DADS
Qualified Intellectual Disability Professional—Abilene
I am part of team that develops plans to enhance and enrich the lives of people with intellectual
disabilities at the Abilene State Supported Living Center. I have a caseload of 18 men ranging in
age from 41 to 63 years old. They are getting older and are starting to have health issues, and
there are some who have behavioral issues. I monitor the delivery of each plan on my caseload. I also work closely with the others make sure all of their needs are being met.
During my sophomore year in high school, my dad took me to the Special Olympics. His military
squadron was helping with the event, and our job was to hug and congratulate the athletes as
they crossed the finish line. This was a life changing event for me. I was touched by their pure
joy and genuine happiness. They were all winners, and they all had such big smiles. That one
event changed my life, and I knew that I wanted to serve and help people with disabilities.
Every day my heart is touched by a smile or a hug and hearing a prayer being said. I thank God for the staff or when a
resident calls my name and is happy to see me. These are moments that give me such joy, and I treasure them in my heart.
From the Nomination: Diana is a great co-worker. She goes above and beyond her job title and is always interested in
what is going on in the home. Diana stays late to go to chapel with clients and is always willing to help out other staff when
they need it. She has been a blessing to the people she serves. Diana also volunteers for different functions we have here
at the Abilene State Supported Living Center and always has a smile on her face.
I am HHS… Amy Hodge, DADS
Behavior Analyst— Abilene
As a behavior analyst, I provide behavioral supports to people at the Abilene State Supported
Living Center. I work on strategies to decrease or eliminate challenging behaviors by teaching
new behaviors. I also work as part of the interdisciplinary team to ensure people living here get
the best supports possible.
I started out as a part time direct care employee in South Dakota 16 years ago. I fell in love with
the job after the first week. I went to fulltime overnights at a group apartment and then to a
home supervisor at the same apartment. I moved and was a relief home manager and then a
home manager for a group home. After moving to Texas I started at AbSSLC at the infirmary in
direct care. I moved to psychiatry as a psychiatric assistant after getting my bachelor’s degree
and then went to behavioral services after getting my master’s degree. I knew as soon as I began working in psychiatry that I
was interested in moving into behavioral services because the work interested me and the people I serve and the people I
work with are amazing.
One experience that stands out the most is working with a woman in South Dakota who was able to attend my wedding in
Las Vegas. She is blind but kept in touch with me. She, to this day, still talks about the wedding and writes to me on a rare
occasion. Her sister wrote to me one day to thank me for allowing her sister to attend the wedding and give her an experience. The feeling you get from helping someone or from knowing you made a difference, however small, in someone's life is
amazing.
From the Nomination: Amy routinely goes above and beyond doing what is necessary to provide excellent services.
She completes paperwork in a timely manner despite being pulled in multiple directions by team members, peer review
committees and the people on her caseload. She helps me make decisions on my caseload whenever I am in need of ideas
and suggestions, and she worked extra hard to complete her certification. She is an awesome co-worker, and she truly
cares about the ladies on her caseload. I am beyond blessed to work with her, and the people she serves adore her.
Maple Street Messenger
Volume 18, Issue 2
Page 14
Departmental
Home 6360 1st Street by Brent Daniels
I want to say thank you to David Daniel for his effort to get holdover and terminations down. The gentlemen at
Home 6360 have enjoyed the rain and the cooler temps. Home 6360 would like to welcome new staff: Liddie
Huckaby, Garrett Robbins, Kristina Huckabee, Alexis Sims, Angela Smythe, and Ty Barfield. They have come in
and are doing a good job learning the ins and outs of Home 6360. Now that summer has arrived, we are looking
forward to getting the gentlemen out and about and finding new adventures for them to enjoy. We are excited
about the IRIS program which will be in swing by the time you read this. Not having to take charts and I-books
everywhere and being able to see what is written instead of having to look in different charts and under different
tabs. We know there will some issues but in the long run it will benefit everyone. Try and stay cool and enjoy the
SUMMER!
Home 5972 Service Ave. by Robert MacDougall
I would like to thank all who helped to make the Spring Formal such a special night. The ladies and gentlemen who live at 5972 Service would not have looked so elegant without all of the extra help that was given. I
would also like to Carisma Ramirez for helping out in many different areas!
Activity Centers by Natosha Jones
Activity Center 6340
We are happy to announce a new addition to the activity center family. Jacque Perry comes to us from Home
6480. Help us welcome him into our family. Welcome Jacque!!
Activity center 5922/5923
The activity center family is happy to announce new additions to our department. Dee Mangum comes to us
from Home 5971 and Raquel Fisher comes to us from Home 6510. Please join us in welcoming Dee and
Raquel into the activity center family. Welcome Dee and Raquel!!
Activity center 6700
The cottages are getting a makeover!! Due to renovations at the cottages, activity center 6700 has moved to
activity center 5921. The grand opening of activity center 5921 was June 13, 2016. Hours of operation remain
the same, Monday thru Friday 8:30 - 11:30 am and 1:30 – 4:30 pm.
Bump ahead!!!! Congratulations go out to Crystal and RJ Fortney who are expecting a precious bundle of joy.
ABILENE VSC FACTS:
•
•
•
VSC stands for Volunteer Services Council
The Abilene VSC has been around since 1959
The VSC raised $400,000 in 1982 to build the Don Cauble Friendship Chapel
The VSC raised over $80,000 for the enclosed swimming pool in 1974. There have been updates throughout the years, including the lifts to assist people getting in and out of the pool.
•
The funds for beautiful Oakwood Trails Lodge were raised by the Abilene VSC and the lodge was built in
1992.
•
Maple Street Messenger
Volume 18, Issue 2
Page 15
Settlement Agreement Office by Tracyl Gandee
In two short months, the Independent Court Monitoring Team led by Ms. Maria Laurence and Dr. Alan
Harchik will re-visit our center. Their focus will continue to be on whether residents are experiencing positive
outcomes. The most important thing residential services staff members can do during the visit is to carefully
follow the program of each resident in their care. In practical terms this means things like; providing continuous
and meaningful active treatment, executing a person’s PNMP as written, and accurately documenting in the
Active Records. I know, easier said than done! With all the competing tasks assigned, it is not possible to
achieve perfection. What we must expect of ourselves is the commitment to continuously improve. So during
this visit and every day; take a big breath, accepting the wonderful fact that you are equipped with the skills and
knowledge to do your job with excellence! Then go do it!
Here are some important information points to keep in mind as you think about the part you
will play in making the upcoming monitor’s visit a successful one.
When:
The monitor’s next visit to our Center is set for the week of August 29th, 2016
Monitoring now occurs every 9 months
Monitoring lasts for one week
Monitoring Methods:
Direct observation
Documentation Review
Staff interview (Job knowledge, Competence, Ability to ensure protection, provision of appropriate medical
treatment, provision of appropriate psychological treatment)
Monitoring Team Composition:
Maria Laurence(On-Site Lead; QA, Risk, Integrated Clinical Services, Community Transitions)
Dr. Ed Mikkelsen (Psychiatry)
Dr. Wayne Zwick (Medical)
Dr. Vicki Lund (Nursing)
Teri Towe (Protection from Harm & ISP)
James Bailey (OT/PT & PNMT)
Susan Thibadeau (Beh. Services & Skill Acquisition)
Did You Know…...you can get a 10% Discount on Subway!
Simply by showing your name badge at Subway #440 (4102 Loop 322 across from BlueCross/BlueShield) you
will receive a 10% discount on your purchase. The discount available at this Subway only and is offered in
appreciation for work done at AbSSLC!
On May 16th, the Hawley Jazz Band performed for our
enjoyment. Thank you!
Maple Street Messenger
Volume 18, Issue 2
6380 Plum by James Mora
Prom is always an event to remember! Working with boys and getting to
see them mature and grow into young adults is amazing. This year’s
prom was something we have been looking forward to since the beginning
of the school year, the boys had an amazing time. It was an honor for the
parents to join us; I know the memories made are going to follow the boys
for years to come.
A Special thanks to the staff and IDT that work on home 6380: We have
some great staff that work on home 6380 that go over and beyond to help
the boys daily, I’m very proud to say I work with the boys and supervise a
great set of staff. I know I can always count on the IDT to do what’s best
and to ensure the happiness and safety of the boys.
Everyone knows Barbara Reid, the director of
Community Relations. Barbara does so much
around campus especially for the boys! A Big
THANK YOU goes to Barbara and the department
she runs for all the help! Community Relations
makes things happen. I look forward to the future; I
know we have some great things happening!
FOOD TRUCK FAN??
You can find the schedule for the food trucks at
s/forms/flyers/2016 Calendar.
All of the food trucks make a donation to the
Abilene VSC from their proceeds. You get
good meals/desserts and help the VSC at the
same time.
Page 16
Maple Street Messenger
Volume 18, Issue 2
Page 17
Unit 1 News by Marie Holder
Boy it’s hard to believe that we are already six months into 2016. What happened? We have been through the
Annual ICF Audit and the follow up. Yea! We have the Settlement Agreement Court Monitors who will be
coming in August and on top of that, we are learning all about IRIS. We also were blessed with rain and more
rain. All the lakes are full and overflowing. Most staff made it to work in spite of the flooding streets. I am very
proud of the people who work in the Unit I areas. We are all striving for the same ultimate goal of providing the
very best life we can, with as much independence as possible and maintain the dignity of the people we serve.
From there we must blend with all the different departments who are working a very difficult task of doing the
ultimate goal with us. The one thing that I see common for everyone is “Love”. We all love the people we
serve.
The Home Activity Specialists have been working hard to ensure that the people we serve get to go to many
places of interest. There are trips to Prime Time, Movies, shopping at the Mall, Frontier Texas, Grace Museum,
Zoo (when it was cooler), Hastings, First Baptist Church Family Life Center, Library, and many more. Everyone
is staying active both on campus and off campus. We recently had the Spring Formal and one of the ladies
was crowned queen. She had a great time and brought home a beautiful tiara. It took a lot of effort from everyone to make it a success and everyone had a wonderful evening.
Daniella has been busy helping get folks beautiful new clothes for the summer months. This has been an
activity for the people in Unit I. Getting to help pick out their clothing items has been a fun experience. There
are 3 Activity Specialists in Unit I: Jennifer at 6510, Rebecca at 6480 and Ollis at 6521. We are so glad to
have them helping to take folks out to off campus activities.
We all have numerous new staff working in the homes/Infirmary. We want to welcome each and every person.
We are so glad you are here with us! Welcome to the Unit I Team! We also want to welcome the new position
of Job Coach. We are thrilled to have this position to help get all the new staff trained.
Kathy Brannon, Safi Renfro and Myah Hawkins have spent time freshening up our outdoor décor with new
coats of paint. Everything looks great! We want to thank each of them for the time and effort making the
outdoors at 6521 look so good Thank you!
The Aktion Club by Jeff Branch
The Aktion Club has been busy. At the last few meetings, flower pots have been decorated and then plants
planted in them. Deniece Wright, Social Worker, took the potted plants to one of the retirement centers here in
town. Deniece reported to the club at the June meeting that the retirement center has started a garden club
with the plants that were donated. She said there were five little ladies that just loved them and that the plants
are flourishing. Also shared was a picture of a Scrabble Board that was done for the fire department. The
board was posted on the Kiwanis International’s webpage. Way to go to the folks that participate in this very
worth while club!
Maple Street Messenger
Volume 18, Issue 2
Page 18
5 Years of Service
John Ruiz
15 Years of Service
Ben Balanay
Patsy Salas
Debra Cagle
Cynthia Baker
Kayla Cogburn
Amanda Shumake
Emily Jenkins
Steve Lassiter
Charles Dortch
Kendrick Swanigan
Cira Jerez
Ismael Mendoza
Lee Fields
Nicole Underwood
Regina Joiner
Eva Power
Jaque Peery
25 Years of Service
10 Years of Service
Bonnie Pitchford
Isabel Cost
Gary Dupree
Roger Rutledge
Tammy Cowling
Gobert Gibson
Charla Scarborough
Criselda Cruz
Amy Gleaton
Rich Watkins
Linda Galvan
Geverna Gloyd
Jimmy Green
Sandra Haynes
James Hubbard
Audrey Moss
Eric Munshower
Olga Perez
Ramesh Pradhan
Laura Hall
Wendy Matthews
Calandra Marshall
Orocella Niyonsaba
20 Years of Service
Clint Kirby
Maple Street Messenger
Volume 18, Issue 2
Page 19
Mosquito Breeding Sites
Clean up leaf litter, but do not rake leaves
Clogged gutters will accumulate water
and other yard waste into the gutter or
and create a place for
storm drains because this prevents water
to breed.
mosquitoes
from flowing and can create ponds that give
mosquitoes a place to lay eggs and develop.
Items such as toys, tires and gardening
tools, when filled with water, can breed
mosquitoes.
Poorly maintained ponds and swimming pools can be
breeding sites for mosquitoes.
Uncovered refuse containers and junk piles
collect water in which mosquitoes can breed.
Leaky outside faucets provide water in
Crawl spaces, attic vents and broken screens allow
which mosquitoes can breed.
mosquitoes to enter your home.
Now that the warm weather is here, so is the mosquito breeding season and the concerns about West Nile Virus. Residents are
advised to take precautions to reduce the risk of mosquito bites:
•
Follow the “Four Ds” to prevent mosquito bites and to avoid contracting West Nile Virus:
1.
Apply insect repellent that contains DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide). Read the label instructions, spray clothes and exposed
skin.
2.
DRESS in long sleeves and long pants when you are outside.
3.
Stay indoors at DUSK and DAWN, times when infected mosquitoes are most active.
4.
DRAIN standing water in your backyard and neighborhood; old tires, flowerpots and clogged rain gutters and mosquito breeding
sites.
Remember, the types of mosquitoes that breed around your home are the same ones primarily responsible for transmitting West Nile
Virus to humans. Currently there is no vaccine for West Nile Virus for humans, but there is one for horses, ask your veterinarian.
For more information, contact the Abilene-Taylor County Health District at 325-692-5600 or the Texas Department of Health
website at www.tdh.state.tx.us
Maple Street Messenger
Volume 18, Issue 2
Page 20
“FIGHT THE BITE”
West Nile Virus Is A Risk You Can Do Something About With A Few Simple Steps
WEST NILE VIRUS (WNV) is now in most of the United States. The most important way people
become infected is through the bite of an infected mosquito. You can reduce your chance of getting
infected by avoiding mosquito bites.
The easiest and best way to avoid WNV is to prevent mosquito bites.
•
When you are outdoors, use insect repellent containing DEET. Follow the directions on the package.
Many mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn. Be sure to use insect repellent and wear long
sleeves and pants at these times or consider staying indoors during these hours.
•
Make sure not to prop open doors leading to the outside so that you will not allow mosquitoes to
enter the home.
•
Get rid of mosquito breeding sites by emptying standing water from flower pots, buckets and barrels.
HOW AND WHEN TO APPLY REPELLANT
• Apply repellents only to exposed skin and/or clothing (as directed on the product label.) Do not use
repellents under clothing.
•
Never use repellents over cuts, wounds or irritated skin.
• Do not apply to eyes or mouth, and apply sparingly around ears. When using sprays, do not spray directly
on face—spray on hands first and then apply to face.
Use just enough repellent to cover exposed skin and/or clothing. Heavy application and saturation are
generally unnecessary for effectiveness. If biting insects do not respond to a thin film of repellent, then apply
a bit more.
•
After returning indoors, wash treated skin with soap and water or bathe. This is particularly important when
repellents are used repeatedly in a day or on consecutive days. Also, wash treated clothing before wearing it
again.
SIGNS/SYMPTOMS of West Nile Virus
• Serious Symptoms in a Few People. About one in 150 people infected with WNV will develop
severe illness. The severe symptoms can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis. These
symptoms may last several weeks, and neurological effects may be permanent.
Milder Symptoms in Some People. Up to 20 percent of the people who become infected have
symptoms such as fever, headache, and body aches, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes swollen lymph
glands or a skin rash on the chest, stomach and back. Symptoms can last for as short as a few days,
though even healthy people have become sick for several weeks.
•
No Symptoms in Most People. Approximately 80 percent of people (about 4 out of 5) who are
infected with WNV will not show any symptoms at all.
Reference: Center for Disease Control (cdc.gov)
Maple Street Messenger
Who Rahs
Donors to the
Second Edition
Ruth Aldridge
Shelia Allen
Cindy Arellano
Diane Atchison
Diane Baird
Rhonda Bilbrey
Lena Bilbrey
Michelle Blanks
Dave & Margie Boyll
Danelle Brand
Cathy Brown
Janie Chase
Debbie Choineire
Bob Coffman
Allison Colwell
Phyllis Conn
Jennie Dodd
Laura Donaway
Jerry Drennan
George & Sandy Dugger
Chris Fanning
Fry Family Estate
Glen & Jan Funkey
Billy & Donna Gee
Trent & Denise Gee
Texa Harper
Kerri Helm
Linda Hinshaw
Bobbie Holden
Melva Ruth Huddleston
Ann Jones
Cynthia Kesner
Susan Langford
Connie Leetsch
Randy Maddera
Hymonda Merkel
Sharon Millican
James Montrose
Joel Morris
Virginia Morris
Jeff Reid
Bo Reid
Leonard Robinson
Mikel Rowe
Linda Scott
Sixth Street Savvy
Travis Smith
Emily Spurgin
Stephanie Thornton
Chris West
Aimee Williams
Volume 18, Issue 2
Page 21
Memorials & Donors
Memorials
In Memory of Freda Brown
Elton Montgomery
Sue Carter
Henry & Ella Vonne West
Bell Helicopter DSC Employees
In Memory of
Amos R. Williams
Shirley Glandon
In Memory of Helen Noyes
Shirley Glandon
In Memory of
Sherry P. Strevel
Linda Hinshaw
In Memory of
Ronald J. Glenn, Jr.
Shirley Glandon
Leadership Gifts
Barbara Reid
Bobbie Holden
Carol Bliznak
Cindy Arellano
Dave Boyll
Dick Dansby
Geoff Gilbert
Hal Griffin
Kelley Bliznak
Linda Hinshaw
Lon Biebighauser
Phyllis Conn
Randy Spiva
Ronica Coldiron-McWhirter
Shirley Glandon
Their Comfort Our
Goal Honors
In Memory of Bobby
Charles & Jean Higgins
In Honor of Karen
Bill & Barbara Harris
In Honor of Rita Varley
J.L. & Mary Varley
In Memory of
William Nesmith
Ruby Nesmith
In Memory of
Bettie Jean Helms
Hazel Joyce Klutts
In Honor of Barbara Reid
Dr. Omer & Judy Hancock
In Memory of Cecelia
Dr. Richard Chengson
In Memory of Cynthia
Samoa Pepper
In Honor of Ricky
Jim & Virginia Morris
In Memory of
J.D. & Udah V. Holmes
Doris Young
In Honor of Lisa
Rose Seifert
In Honor of Mary Lou
May Spruell
Jack Young
Jason & Stacy Acevedo
Jennifer Reynolds
Jim & Virginia Morris
Jon & Terry Hampton
Joyce Klutts
Julie Bucko
June Stephens
Kaitlin Thaxton
Larry & Helen Musick
Linda Marcum
Mark & Dianna Evatt
Martha Bennett
Mary Louise Skinner
Mary McMaster
Mary Spruell
Maurita & Josh Ammons
Mitchell & Annice Cameron
Raleigh & Mary B.
Denison
Roger Bhakta
Rose Seifert
Ruby Nesmith
Samoa Pepper
Shirley Glandon
Wilma Allen
In Honor of Doris
Julie Bucko
Donations of Note
In Honor of Amit
Roger Bhakta
Plants from Walmart—Work
Centers
In Honor of
Barbara, Cindy & Phyllis
Shirley Glandon
1881 Food Truck
Their Comfort Our
Goal Donors
Barber Foundation
Bill & Barbara Harris
Billie Gresham
Brian & Julie Gerron
Butch & Donna Schuman
Charles & Jean Higgins
David & Elena Carpenter
Debra White
Doris Young
Doug & Dee Vinson
Dr. Omer & Judy Hancock
Dr. Richard Chengson
Edith LaPorte
Fred & Donna Reiff
George & Dorothy Dawson
Glen Hall, D.D.S.
Gloria McDaniel
Guy & Peggy Beckham
J.L. & Mary Varley
Cherokee on the Go—Food
Truck
Crabb Shack—Food Truck
Heavenly Delights Food
Truck
Sweetside Food Truck
The Grub Bus—Food Truck
Imagine Nation Books—
Books are Fun
Expo Center of Taylor
County—Tickets to High
School Rodeo Finals
Fort Griffin Fandangle—
Tickets
STATE OF TEXAS
If you do not wish to receive future issues of The Maple Street Messenger,
please return this form to:
Abilene State Supported Living Center
Abilene State Supported Living Center
P.O. Box 451
Abilene, Texas 79604
Messenger Editor:
Pam Huffman
Phone: 325-795-3558
Fax: 325-795-3992
E-mail: pam.huffman@dads.state.tx.us
P.O. Box 451
Abilene, Texas 79604
Attention: Editor
Please take my address off the mailing list for The Maple Street
Messenger.
Name:
Address:
You may also use this form to report a change of address.
Name:
We’re on the Web!
Address:
www.absslc.org
You can also call or email the Messenger Editor your changes.
Contact information to the left of this page.
Cookbooks are still available!
Get yours now with a variety of wonderful different recipes from
numerous great cooks. They are great gift ideas. Give as birthday,
wedding, or anniversary gifts.
The cookbooks are just $8 each and may be purchased (exact change
or check please) at Support Services – Building 641 or at
the AbSSLC Switchboard.
The recipe printed below is one of many fine
recipes you will find in the cookbook.
Sopapilla Cheesecake
2 cans crescent rolls room temperature
2 (8-oz.) pkgs. cream cheese room temperature
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1 stick butter melted
1/2 cup sugar
1 tsp. cinnamon
Grease 9x13 pan. Cover bottom of pan with one can of rolls. Pinch seams together. In bowl, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.
Spread mix over rolls. Place other can of rolls on top of cream cheese mixture.
Pinch seams together. Sprinkle sugar on top and pour melted butter over the
sugar. Sprinkle cinnamon over top. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until
golden brown.