Hudson Valley/Rockland/Westchester, NY Chapter
Administrative Office
2 Jefferson Plaza, Ste. 103
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601-4060
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Poughkeepsie, NY
Permit No. 51
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Newsletter of the Hudson Valley/Rockland/Westchester, NY Chapter
Published quarterly for our donors, volunteers, advocates, and friends in the Alzheimer’s community
Administrative Office and
Dutchess/Ulster Regional Office
D: 845-471-2655 U: 845-340-8474
Winter, 2007
By Claudine Larocque, Director, Principal Gifts, Alzheimer’s Association
Orange/Sullivan Regional Office
O: 845-342-2247 S: 845-794-3774
Westchester Regional Office
914-428-1919
Putnam Point of Service
845-878-9890
www.alz.org (national web site)
www.alzhudsonvalley.org (chapter web site)
info@alzhudsonvalley.org
1-800-872-0994
1-800-272-3900 (24-hour Helpline)
Research - New Alzheimer Gene Discovered
The researchers looked at 29 different
"variations" in small sections of the
SORL1 gene in a total of about 6,000
people from nine different distinct
ethnic or geographic groups. They
identified two regions on the gene, each
of which contains several of these
variations, that showed strong association
with increased risk of Alzheimer's in six
of the nine different populations.
Researchers believe the diseasepromoting variants of SORL1 act by
suppressing the gene's activity.According
to the researchers, SORL1 provides the
genetic blueprint for proteins that act
like "traffic cops," moving the amyloid
precursor protein (APP) to different
places in the brain cell. In one place in
On Monday, Nov. 13, 2006, the Alzheimer's
Association's Zenith Society hosted a special
Chapter News 2 gathering of philanthropic and scientific
leaders at the historic Waldorf-Astoria Hotel
Winter Programs: 4 in downtown Manhattan. Members and guests
heard from Association President and CEO
Memory Walk
6 Harry Johns and a panel of distinguished
Dear Stephanie 8 speakers on the state of Alzheimer research:
Dr. Michael Wolfe, Associate Professor,
Save These Dates! 8 Harvard Medical School and Brigham and
Women's Hospital; Dr. Michael Hutton,
Support Groups 9 Associate Professor, Mayo Clinic; Dr. Eric
Siemers, Medical Advisor, Lilly Research
Recent Special 10 Laborator ies; with special remarks by
Events
Princess Yasmin Aga Khan, Honorary Vice
Memorials & 11 Chair, National Board of Directors and
General Chair, Alzheimer's Association Rita
Tributes
Hayworth Galas.
Inside this issue:
Rockland Regional Office
845-639-6776
In a study published recently in Nature
Genetics, an international team of
researchers identified a gene called
SORL1 as strongly associated with risk
for the most common type of
Alzheimer's (late onset sporadic disease)
in populations of several ethnic groups.
Building a Zenith Society
the cell, APP is broken down into the
toxic beta amyloid that forms the
plaques found in Alzheimer's. In other
places in the cell it is broken down into
innocuous pieces. SORL1 proteins favor
the "good" pathway (innocuous
breakdown). When SORL1 produces
too little protein, this deficiency
channels more APP into the toxic
pathway, which generates more beta
amyloid.
This study contains the first evidence
that genes that control the movement of
the APP around brain cells can
contribute to Alzheimer's risk.
Next steps for this area of research
include further confirmation of these
findings by other scientists in different
populations, identification of the specific
variation or variations of the gene that
alter the processing of APP, and
evaluation of this gene as a target for
therapy and a possible aid to diagnosis.
It is unlikely that this discovery will
generate a genetic test that will be
available to physicians or consumers.
"Teasing out" the specific impact of one
gene is very difficult as Alzheimer's
involves multiple genes, not just a single
"yes or no" gene trigger. Additionally,
there are environmental/lifestyle risk
factors, and there may be other genes,
and also environmental elements, that
affect the expression of SORL1.
Nevertheless, this study is a significant
advancement to our knowledge about
the cause of Alzheimer's disease, and
SORL1 is the first gene strongly
associated with late onset Alzheimer's in
many years. Only one gene, called
APOE, has been firmly identified as a
risk factor for late- onset Alzheimer’s
disease.
The Alzheimer's Association is one of
the funders of this important research,
along with the National Institute on
Aging, the Canadian Institutes of Health
Research, and several others.
Research
12 ZENITH SOCIETY
~ Our Mission ~
For sixteen years the Zenith program has
represented the highest level of philanthropy
and has set the bar on leadership giving at the
Alzheimer's Association. As a group, Zenith
members have played a direct and historic role
in helping to create the leadership necessary
for the Alzheimer research field to advance.
Jerome H. Stone, founder and honorary
chairman of the Association, conceived of the
Zenith Program in 1990. He envisioned
bringing together individuals from around the
country who cared deeply about Alzheimer's
disease and who had the means to turn this
interest into action - by investing their
philanthropic support in strategic and
histor ically significant ways.
To eliminate
Alzheimer’s disease
through the
advancement of
research; to
provide and
enhance care and
support for all
affected; and to
reduce the risk of
dementia through
the promotion of With his leadership, Zenith members have
collectively given over $36 million to the
brain health.
Association, creating the Zenith research
grants program, which has grown to become
one of the most distinguished awards in the
scientific field, funding researchers from
around the world. Perhaps most importantly,
Zenith members have provided significant
resources and attention to innovative areas
of Alzheimer research at a time when
others were not.
Today, the Zenith members are a vibrant group
of philanthropic leaders who are interested
in the full mission of the Association:
research - care - and prevention. Members are
individuals and organizations that commit at
least $1 million to the Alzheimer's Association.
They are a diverse group of thoughtful,
talented, and committed individuals who
can more powerfully address the devastating
impacts of Alzheimer's locally, nationally
and globally through the Association and
this program.
THE ZANE/BENNETT ZENITH
SOCIETY CHALLENGE
The Zenith program has been issued an
exciting leadership challenge by new
members Sandy Zane and Ned Bennett.
This husband and wife team has pledged $2
million to the Zenith program if the
Alzheimer's Association can secure four
new or renewing Zenith memberships.
This is an outstanding opportunity for
supporters considering the program to
leverage their giving and help the
Association secure $6 million in new
monies towards our mission of a world
without Alzheimer's.
Don’t Miss the
Public Policy Forum:
March 18-20, 2007
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Memorials and Tributes
Chapter News
Board of Directors
Rochelle S. Berger, Chair
Bret Jacobowitz, First Vice Chair
Charlotte Östman, Second Vice Chair
Marian Crapanzano, Secretary
John Levin,Treasurer
Susan Bunce
Maureen Coughlin
Karen Ganis
William J. Higgins, M.D.
Debra Kagan-Birkeland
Debbie Marks Kahn
Melissa R. MacCaull
James B. McEvoy
Janet Newberg
Steven A. Schurkman
Andrew B. Sillin
Jannette Swanson
Marie Tarver
Staff
It’s not hard to understand why. Alzheimer’s
disease still carries a tremendous stigma. People
are afraid that they or their loved one will be
treated differently, that they will no longer be
allowed to carry on their favorite activities or to
enjoy their independence. Alzheimer’s is the last
taboo,one that has outlived cancer and AIDS.
Yet for attitudes to change, and to find an
effective treatment or cure, those who care
about Alzheimer’s need to speak out. We need
to tell our stories ... to raise the consciousness of
our friends and neighbors and legislators . . . to
make Alzheimer’s disease a national priority.
Elaine Sproat, President/CEO
Meg Boyce, Director, Programs & Services
Jennifer Scheuermann,Director,Finance & Operations We have two special opportunities in March to
Alison DaMore, Director of Development
do just that, and possibly to influence funding
Poughkeepsie
Gina Faustner, Program & Development Asst.
Karen J. Gauvin, Communications Specialist
Amy Kotash, Program & Development Asst.
Pamela Perkins-Dwyer, Special Events Manager
Alicia Terrana, Care Consultant
Mary Varano, Bookkeeper
Middletown
Sarah E. Ruter, Care Consultant
Janet Troia, Administrator, Regional Office
New City
Maria Paliotta,Administrator, Regional Office
Camille Sharp, Care Consultant
Barbara Webb, Care Consultant
Patterson
Stuart Greif, Program Development Specialist
White Plains
Ruth Ahearn,Assoc. Dir., Programs & Services
Ellen Imbiano, Care Consultant
Terry Kean, Special Events Manager
Erva Randolph,Helpline Coord./Admin.Asst.
©2007 Alzheimer's Association, Hudson Valley/ Rockland/
Westchester, NY Chapter, Inc., except where specifically
stated otherwise. All rights reserved. All material in
newscope is offered as information to our readers. The
Alzheimer’s Association, Hudson Valley/Rockland/
Westchester, NY Chapter cannot warrant, endorse, or
recommend any provider, program, or product.
We are grateful for all the memorials and tributes given to the Alzheimer’s Association. These gifts honor friends and loved
ones while helping us meet needs for education, family support, advocacy, and research. Listed below are individuals honored from
7/1/06 to 9/30/06.
Among Friends
Recently I had the opportunity to speak with
a member of one of our early-stage support
groups.“The word dementia sounds like ‘don’t
mention it,’” he said. “That’s how many
people feel about Alzheimer’s disease and
related disorders.”
for Alzheimer care and research as well.
The first is on Tuesday, March 6, when our
chapter will charter a bus and travel to Albany
to meet with our state legislators. The goal of
our state Advocacy Day is to put a personal
face on Alzheimer’s and to share concerns
related to living with or caring for someone
with dementia. That’s why we need you to
participate. The bus is FREE. It will leave from
Westchester and then
travel up the NewYork
S t a t e T h r u w a y,
stopping at exits 11,16,
17, 18, and 19. For
more information or to
make a reservation,
please call the chapter at
1-800-872-0994.
Memorials
The second opportunity to make a difference
is March 18-20, when the Alzheimer’s
Association Public Policy Forum will be
held in Washington,D.C.
The Forum will give us the chance to learn
about advocacy issues and to meet with our
members of Congress . . . to tell them why
Alzheimer’s is important to us and why we
must increase federal funding--now!--for
Alzheimer's research.
To reduce the cost of attending the
Public Policy Forum, this year’s Forum is
a day shorter than previous events, there
is a group registration discount, and our
chapter is offering a $600 scholarship to
an individual or couple who attend. For
more information about the Forum, go
to www.alz.org. To apply for the chapter
scholarship, please contact the chapter at
1-800-872-0994 by February 16.
Elaine Sproat
Don’t Mention It!
I have been diagnosed as having
dementia or early stage Alzheimer’s
disease. The word dementia is an
awful word--it almost sounds like
“don’t mention it.” And this is how
many people feel about it--don’t
mention it.
It is really not contagious like so
many other diseases which affect
our bodies.
It is a hidden
deterioration of the brain, which
no one can see! But, “they” can see
the effects of it on how a person
thinks and acts.
So far, I really don’t see the effects
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of this disease on my body or how
I act. But others apparently do!!
Actually, as I write this, I feel fine!
Maybe I’m a little more tired than
usual, but then again maybe not!
Oh well! For now, I’ll go along
with the diagnosis. And, certainly
I’ll be taking my medicine faithfully,
“just in case”! But, when you see
me, don’t treat me any different
than you used to. Be my friend!
And certainly I’ll continue to be
yours!! Thank you!
A Member of One of the Chapter’s
Early-Stage Support Groups
May Ackermann
Samuel Acquaro, Sr.
Kathryn Agnew
Michael Amoroso
Ivy Anders
Antoinette Armbruster
Rose Arrons
Mannie Asen
John Auld
John Baccalore
Shahan Baer
Isabelle M. Baker
Ceasar Barbieri
Dick Bennison
Dorothy A. Bevins
Camille Biancardi
Theodore Bicos
Walter Bischak
Ted Boniface
Kathleen Branigan
Marjorie Braun
Shirley Breiman
Fred Brenner
Dorothy Myrah Breuninger
Ted Brown
Roger Burns
Karolyn Caddle
Angelina Calligaro
Lillian Campanella
Robert Campbell
Vincent Capone
Louis Carollo
Frances Casterella
Evelyn Catalano
Anthony Colavito
Dr. Nancy Ann Condro
Paul Connell
Marjorie Cuomo
Michael "Mickey" Dahowski
Ann De Noble
Caye Devlin
John Diamond
Jeanette Dobson
Kathleen Elizabeth
Theresa Dolce
Mrs. Drennen
Virginia D'Siena
George Durham
Emma J. Dutcher
Theresa Falanga
James P. Fanning
Dorothy Feeney
Margurite Ferrara
Ralph Ferrusi
Lucille Field
Anita Fiocco
Theresa Flanga
Florence Fenichel
Aranka Fogel
Betty Owen Folster
Ruth I. Foster
Nicholas Franco
Felicia Gabryszewski
Robert Gage
Virginia Galati
Vivian Geitz
William J. Gerbe
Israel Goldstein
Barbara Ann Grasso
Nelson Greenberg
Wilson Guilianelli
Theresa Hafner
Florence Halperin
Winifred Hamill
Douglas Harris, Sr.
Minnie Harris
Dorothy Harvey
Yetta Heitner
Marion Holt
Floyd "Sonny" Hornbeck
Signe Jacobson
Rose A. Kay
Mildred Keegan
Ann Keller
Edwin Kennedy
Arminda Kerner
Beatrice Kirschenbaum
Anna Marie Kirtio
Fannie Labarbera
William P. Lane
Fran Lewis
Dasha Lifton
May Lipson
Ruth Luman
Erminia Macchia
Alfred Malecki
Ana Mayas
Genevieve McCabe
Alex McNeil
Dorothy Medovich
Joseph Meehan
George Mekss
Hilda Menshen
Mary Mileo
Grace Miracolo
Joseph Montano
Marie Moretti
A. S. Morrow, Jr.
Serafino "Sal" Mucci
Anita Muitz
Caroline C. Mulvey
Gertrude Nadel
Francesco "Frank" Nitti
Beatrice Obermeyer
Richard G. O'Dell
Kathleen O'Hare Branigan
Anna Olivieri
Ann Ondich
Hugo Pasquarelli
Betty Payne
Florence "Flo" Pendergast
Frances Perrin
Concetta Picciano
Lena Poritzky
Theresa Preece
Lena Puppolo
Edwin Purcell
Mrs. Quigley
Genevieve K. Reim
Cecelia Rescigno-House
Velma Ricci
Adelaide Rider
Theodore Rivlin
Ernestina Rodriguez
Mildred Rosi
Margaret Russo-Jones
Frank Sabella
Edna Sanzari
Betty Schneider
Bud Schreiber
Sara Sergio
Harry Sharp
Rose Siciliano
Margaret Simonetti
Marion Sloan
Viloet Spinola
Lillian Spree
Elliot Stahl
Dorothy Stein
Blanche Stone
Mildred Stutzbach
Elliot Sugarman
Kenneth Sutherland
Walter Szulwach
Marie J.Tangredi
Harold Thurston
Harold Todd
Josephine Turturro
Peter Coffin Vincent
Lucy Wallace
Helen Walls
Helen Waraniuk
Mr. Leslie Waters
Pauline Weber
Mr.Wolkin
Mildred Wrege
Bernadette Yandoli
Alexander Yiannakou
John Zoccolillo
Tributes
Arthur Abbadusky
Alzheimer's Association
Silver Anniversary
Charles Beagan
Viola T. Birdsall
Charles & Nancy Clarvit,
on their 25th anniversary
& Nancy's 50th birthday
Patricia Collins
Dr. Andrew Decker
Doris Dezarn
Arnold Feidelman
Beth Ann Fleming & Dave
Marris, on their wedding
Jerome Franklin
Mathilda Fuzo
Richard Gans, Esq.
Jay & Elenor Glat, on their
50th anniversary
Abe Gold,
on his 75th birthday
Ellen Greenfield
Emil Greif,
on his 90th birthday
Stuart Greif
Rita & Dick Haas
Edith Hershey
Jeff Kaufman
Alan Kenig
Dolly S. Marks
Jose Matta
Phyllis McGuire
Norma Ormland
Cathy Patterson
John Segalini
Eleaner Senft
The Regulars
Louis L.Vessecchia
Robert Weisman
Victor & Helen Welch
Dominic Yannocone
Esther Zitzerman
Save the date!
The Chapter’s annual black tie benefit,“A Night
of Wine & Roses,” will be held at The
Grandview, the
newest
addition
to
Poughkeepsie’s waterfront, on Saturday, April 28.
This very special event will honor Charles S.
North, President & CEO of the Poughkeepsie Area
Chamber of Commerce, and Elaine Sproat,
President & CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association,
Hudson Valley/Rockland/Westchester, NY Chapter.
To make early reservations, place an advertisement
or personal tribute in the event’s Souvenir
Journal, or donate an item for the evening’s
auction, please contact Pamela Perkins-Dwyer,
Special Events Manager, at 845-471-2655, 1800-972-0994, or Pamela.Dwyer@alz.org.
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Chapter News
Recent Special Events
8th Annual Golf Tournament
Raises Over $67,000
The Alzheimer's Association’s 2006 Golf Tournament provided
a non-stop day of fun as golfers, sponsors and volunteers
enjoyed a BBQ lunch, 18 holes of golf (Scramble Format),
course refreshments, cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, and a buffet
dinner.Tourney presentations, day of event raffles, top team and
skill prizes, and a major raffle drawing rounded out the day.
Held at the Hampshire Country Club in Mamaroneck, NY,
the event generated vital funds for the Alzheimer’s
Association, raising over $67,000 to support our full mission
of research, education, advocacy, and support!
Rockland Goes Italian
Thank you to the Hon. John
Murphy (Committee Chair and
Rockland County legislator), Dr.
Nunzio Pomara, and all the
dedicated committee volunteers
for making the Alzheimer’s
Association’s first “Eat Italian”
fundraiser last October a reality!
Participating restaurants included Del Arte, Orangeburg Heather’s Open Cucina, Nyack - Scoozi Restaurant,
Garnerville - Gennaro’s Restaurant, Stony Point - La Terraza,
New City - Pasta Cucina, Stony Point - Mia Cucina,
Blauvelt - Caffe Dolce, Suffern - Mariella’s, New City - and
Lanterna Tuscan Bistro, Nyack.
Luminary Ceremony Is Tribute to
Love and Courage
From left to right: Fred Haffner, long -time tournament committee
member/supporter, Ron and Donna Sylvestri,Tournament Co-chairs,
& Tom Foldy, long-time tournament committee member/supporter.
The tournament was hosted by the New York City District
Council of Carpenters Relief and Charity Fund and was cochaired by Ronald Sylvestri, Senior Vice President of
Hudson Valley Bank and Donna Sylvestri, President of
Madison Home Management, founders of the tournament.
The Alzheimer's Association wishes to thank the event's sponsors,
chairpersons, committee members, and day-of-event
volunteers for their dedication to making the event such a
success. Special thanks also go to our major raffle donors,
American Airlines, Ron & Donna Sylvestri, and Jim & Gail
Vernon.
Two Very Special Events
Fifty people celebrated National Alzheimer’s Disease
Awareness Month by gathering together during a crisp,
beautiful fall evening at Mahopac Chamber of Commerce
Park and lighting over 190 luminaries in honor of and in
memory of friends and family members who have been
affected by Alzheimer’s disease or a related illness.
Many thanks to event visionary Richard Reynolds and the
Putnam County Memory Walk Committee for making the
Luminary Ceremony possible, to program participants
Sheila Gayle, Michael Battenfeld, the Rev.Timothy Wiggins,
Radovich & Dean Music, and The Plaza at Clover Lake, and
to the Alzheimer’s Association’s Stuart Greif who wrote the
moving dedication presented during the ceremony.
Holiday Celebration with Elvis!!!
We are grateful once again to
Eric Bressi, a.k.a. Elvis, for
entertaining at the Alzheimer’s
Association’s December social
event in Sullivan County.
Thanks also to Bonnie Lewis
of the Caregiver Resource
Center for co-sponsoring
our socialization programs.
Noah Scheuermann, born to
Jennifer & Will Scheuermann
September 29, 2006
Emerson Joseph (EJ) Skelton,
born to Karen & John Skelton
January 16, 2007
Pictured are Cynthia Niven
and her mom Norma, who was
celebrating her 86th birthday!
Transitions
“No Money, No Mission”
The Alzheimer’s Association, Hudson Valley/Rockland/Westchester,
NY Chapter welcomes a new staff member and a new Board
member.
Former National Alzheimer’s Association Board Chair Orien
Reid used to say, “No money, no mission.” Both the
Alzheimer’s Association, Hudson Valley/Rockland/Westchester,
NY Chapter and our National headquarters in Chicago rely
on the generosity of donors to carry out our shared mission
of patient and family services, education, advocacy, and
research. Until recently we were competing with each other
for these vital funds. However, as of July 1, 2006, we changed
the way we were doing business!
Pamela Perkins-Dwyer joined the
Association in late November as
Special Events Manager in the
Poughkeepsie office. Pamela came to
us from the Poughkeepsie Journal,
where she was National Sales
Manager; previously she held positions
as an advertising account executive at ABC, USA Today,The
Los Angeles Times, and various consumer magazine
companies. In addition to her experience in marketing and
sales, she has created and participated in fundraising events, in
a volunteer capacity, for organizations such as the Barrett Art
Center, Jazz at Lincoln Center, the American Cancer Society,
and the New York Region of the National Council of
Negro Women.
Andrew B. Sillin was elected to the
Chapter’s Board of Directors in
December. Andy was born and raised
in Dutchess County and has lived in
Ulster County for the past 30 years.
Now on the brink of retirement, he
has served as Associate Dean for
Continuing Education at Dutchess
Community College for almost as long. As an Alzheimer’s
family member, he says, "I know of no better way to volunteer
my time than to be a part of the Alzheimer's Association." He
has previously served as President of SUNY's Career
Development Organization, Chairman of the Board of the
Dutchess Co. Chapter of the American Red Cross, a member
of the Board of Osiris Country Club, a member of ERVK's
Task Force on Racism, and a United Way Loaned Executive.
Job Opportunity
Our chapter is growing, and we are seeking to fill a new position
in our Poughkeepsie office! Responsibilities will include PR,
media relations, and marketing activities throughout our
chapter territory, as well as desktop publishing and design and
web-site management. Exper ience with gover nment
relations or an interest in public policy would be a plus.
You may have noticed that Alzheimer’s Association fundraising
appeals now look different and that the enclosed remittance
envelopes are addressed to a Post Office Box rather than to
a chapter office. This is because, while we are still separate
corporations with our own boards of directors, starting July
1 we adopted a new "shared fundraising" program. By raising
money together, we are reducing fundraising expenses while
sharing revenues in a mutually agreed-upon way.
These appeals are part of the Alzheimer's Association's direct
marketing program. The direct marketing program plays a
vital role in donor acquisition and renewal and is expected to
raise over $29 million to support our mission during the
current fiscal year. However, we understand that not
everyone likes to receive the premiums that some of these
appeals contain, or more than one appeal each year. If you
are receiving multiple mailings, or unwanted premiums, you
need only let us know your preferences and we will code our
database accordingly. Please be aware, however, that mailings
of this sort are started far in advance of the actual mail date, so
it may take up to three months for any changes to take effect.
Please be aware also that not all solicitations bearing
words “Alzheimer’s” or “Alzheimer’s research” are from
Alzheimer’s Association. To be sure you are donating to
highly-regarded Alzheimer's Association, please look for
logo on the front of this newsletter!
the
the
the
the
Chapter Offers Tax Information
for Caregivers
With tax season in full swing, you may be wondering how
tax laws may affect people with Alzheimer’s disease or their
care partners. Are the Costs of Caring for a Person with
Alzheimer’s Disease Deductible? explains how taxpayers may be
able to deduct long-term care costs, including the costs of
If this sounds like your dream job, please send a letter of nursing homes, assisted living facilities, respite care, adult day
interest and your résumé to Elaine Sproat, Alzheimer’s care, and other expenses.
Association, 2 Jefferson Plaza, Ste. 103, Poughkeepsie, NY
For a copy of the article, contact your local chapter office
12601. A complete job description is posted on our web site,
(see back page) or check the information on line at
www.alzhudsonvalley.org.
www.alz.org/documents/national/taxes.pdf.
Page 4
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Alzheimer’s Association Winter Programs
Understanding Memory Loss
What: This program will cover general information about
normal and abnormal memory loss, including the ten
warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease, how to get a proper
diagnosis, stages of the disease, related disorders, and
medications currently available.
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Where: Suffern Free Library, 210 Lafayette Ave.,
Suffern, NY
When: Monday, March 19, 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Info/Registration: Alzheimer's Assoc., 845-639-6776
Where: Fallsburg Library, 12 Railroad Plaza, South
Fallsburg, NY.
When: Thursday, April 5, 2007, 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Info/Registration: Alzheimer’s Assoc.,845-794-3774.
What: A special invitation for family caregivers and
professionals to learn about chapter programs and services.
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Where: Ulster County Office for the Aging, 400
Stockade Dr., Kingston, NY
When: 12 p.m. - 2 p.m.,Wednesday, February 14
(snow date:Wednesday, February 28)
Info/Registration: Alzheimer’s Assoc., 845-340-8474
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What: Persons recently diagnosed with early stage memory
loss and their care partners are invited to a 4-week seminar.
Topics to be discussed will include the nature of memory/
cognitive disorders, taking control of the "problem," memory
enhancement, management of symptoms, issues such as
driving, family issues, depression and anxiety, legal and
financial planning, and supports and resources available.
Where: Alzheimer’s Association, 785 Mamaroneck
Ave., Building 4, Room 307,White Plains, NY.
When: Days and time TBD.
Info: For further information, please call Ellen
Imbiano at the Alzheimer’s Association, 914-428-1919.
Where: Jeffersonville Public Library, Center &
Jeffersonville Avenues, Jeffersonville, NY
When: March 22, 2007, 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Info/Registration: Alzheimer's Assoc., 845-794-3774
Getting Connected
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Taking Control of Memory Impairment: An
Education Program for Persons with Early
Memory Loss and Their Care Partners
Alzheimer’s Disease: Across the Stages
A series of three informational programs for family and
professional caregivers that will be offered at varied times
throughout our chapter territory:
“An Orientation to AD” is suitable for the person with
dementia as well as family members. The last program is a
panel with representatives from various care communities.
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Dutchess/Ulster Regional Office: Wednesday,
March 14, 12 noon - 2 p.m.
Orange/Sullivan Regional Office: Wednesday,
March 21, 12 noon - 3 p.m.
Rockland Regional Office: Wednesday,
February 7, 12 noon - 1 p.m. and Wednesday,
March 7, 12 noon - 1 p.m.
Westchester Regional Office: Wednesday,
March 28, 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Info/Registration: Please call local offices (see back page)
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Other Programs
Partnering with Your Doctor
Where: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public
Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville, NY
When: Monday, February 26, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Info/Registration: 845-639-6776
w
What: An Orientation to Alzheimer’s Disease—A
Medical Introduction to Dementia, Diagnosis, &
Treatment,with Dr.Jeffrey Escher,a well-known geriatrician
and member of the Memory Evaluation Treatment
Service at Burke Rehabilitation Hospital
Where: Sunrise Senior Living,500 N.Columbus Ave.,
Mt.Vernon, NY
When: Tuesday, March 27, 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Info/Registration: Alzheimer’s Assoc., 914-428-1919
What: Living with Change As Alzheimer’s Progresses
Where: Catskill Regional Medical Center,
Adult Day Care Center
When: Monday, February 5, 7 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Info/Registration: Alzheimer’s Assoc., 845-794-3774
What: Living with Change As Alzheimer’s Progresses
Where: Alzheimer’s Association White Plains Office
When:Wednesday, February 28, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Info/Registration: Alzheimer’s Assoc., 914-428-1919
What: Exploring Future Care Options
Where: Alzheimer’s Association White Plains Office
When:Wednesday, March 28, 10:30 a.m. - noon
Info/Registration: Alzheimer’s Assoc., 914-428-1919
Alzheimer’s Association Support Groups
Page 9
All support groups are free and open to the public, but pre-registration is required. Since the number of
groups offered has grown, we can no longer include detailed information about each group in the newsletter.
For exact location, support group leader contact information, and general questions, or to confirm a group is
meeting in case of inclement weather, please call your local chapter office (see back page).
FAMILY SUPPORT
GROUPS
** Nanuet
Meals on Wheels
Weds., weekly, 1 p.m.
Mount Vernon
Sunrise Assisted Living
Last Thursday, 6-7:30 p.m.
New City
Sunrise Senior Living
2nd/4th Mon., 6:30-8 p.m.
Mount Vernon
The Meadowview at Wartburg
1st & 3rd Weds., 2-3:30 p.m.
Hopewell Junction
Hopewell Reformed Church
3rd Tues., 1 p.m.
Palisades
Esplanade
2nd /4th Thursdays, 1 p.m.
Poughkeepsie
Alzheimer’s Association
1st Wed., 11 a.m.
New: Port Chester
1st/3rd Thurs., 10-11:30 a.m.
Contact Ruth Ahearn,
914-428-1919, for information.
Pearl River
Pearl River Meth. Church
Last Tues., 7:30 p.m.
Rhinebeck
The Thompson House
2nd Mon., 6 p.m.
SULLIVAN COUNTY
Harris
Catskill Regional Medical Ctr.
1st Mon., 7 p.m.
Sleepy Hollow
Phelps Memorial Hospital
1st/3rd Th., 7:30-9 p.m.
#### Harris
Catskill Regional Medical Ctr.
3rd Mon., 7 p.m.
Somers
Call Ruth Ahearn,
914-428-1919 for info.
ULSTER COUNTY
Ellenville
Canal Lodge Adult Day Care
4th Wed., 1 p.m.
Valhalla
Westchester Meadows
2nd/4th Tues., 4-5:30 p.m.
DUTCHESS COUNTY
Beacon
Fishkill Health Center
3rd Wed., 3 p.m.
ORANGE COUNTY
** Goshen
Valley View Center for
Nursing & Rehabilitation
Last Mon., 7 p.m.
** Goshen
Valley View Center for
Nursing & Rehabilitation
2nd Tues., 2-3:30pm
** Middletown
Webb Horton Pres. Church
3rd Wed., 11 a.m.
Newburgh
Elant at Newburgh Conf. Rm.
2nd Tues., 7 p.m.
PUTNAM COUNTY
Carmel
The Plaza at Clover Lake
2nd/4th Wed., 6:30-8 p.m.
ROCKLAND COUNTY
#### Haverstraw
Action Partnership
(CAPROC)
1st Wednesday, 7-9 p.m.
** Kingston
Greenkill Ave. ADC
2nd Tues., 3 p.m.
Woodstock
Christ Lutheran Church
3rd Tues., 2 p.m.
WESTCHESTER COUNTY
Cortlandt Manor
The Seabury at Fieldhome
1st/3rd Wed., 10-11:30 a.m.
Hawthorne
Morningside House ADC
2nd/4th Thurs., 10-11:15 a.m.
## Mt. Kisco
Call for information,
914-428-1919
Rye
The Osborn
2nd/4th Tues, 2-3:30 p.m.
White Plains
Alzheimer’s Association
2nd/4th Mon., 10-11:30 a.m.
White Plains
Alzheimer’s Association
2nd/4th Wed., 6:30-8 p.m.
Closed to newcomers due to size
New, starting 2/19:White Plains
Alzheimer’s Association
1st/3rd Mon., 6:30-8 p.m.
* White Plains
Alzheimer’s Association
1st/3rd Mon., 2:30-4 p.m.
#### White Plains
Call for information,
914-428-1919.
EARLY-STAGE GROUPS
Note: pre-registration
interviews are required. For
an appointment, please call
the staff member listed
below.
ORANGE COUNTY
Sarah Ruter, 845-342-2247
DUTCHESS COUNTY
Meg Boyce, 845-471-2655
ROCKLAND COUNTY
Camille Sharp, 845-639-6776
WESTCHESTER COUNTY
Ellen Imbiano, 914-428-1919
A Fond Farewell!
Thank you to Carole and
Clayton Hager for their
commitment and dedication
as support group leaders
over the past five years.
Their loyalty to their group
made their decision to step
back difficult. They will
remain involved with the
Chapter in other ways!
Not Able
to Attend a
Support Group?
Help is just a mouse click
away at the Alzheimer’s
Association’s message boards
and chat room at www.alz.org.
The forums for online
conversation allow people
to discuss issues and share
thoughts and experiences.
Among the 10 forums are
groups for caregivers, health
professionals, and people
with memory loss.
* Early Stage Caregivers ** Free respite is offered during the group (pre-registration is required).
## Adult Children Caregivers #### Spanish-speaking Group
newscope
Page 8
Caregiving
Dear Stephanie:
You have written a lot about Support
Groups. But I wonder why you don't write
about the Internet Chat Rooms that deal
with Alzheimer's disease.
There is a Support Group near my home,
but I wonder if I need to go to such a group.
My husband was recently diagnosed and is
in the very early stages of Alzheimer's.
Anne in Armonk
Dear Anne,
I very strongly urge you to attend a
Face-to-Face Support Group. While
the Internet can provide a great deal of
information, and is certainly a valuable
resource for family members who for
one reason or another cannot get to a
Support Group meeting, there is
nothing like being with one’s peers
who are facing the same problems. I
know that I could never have gotten
through the ordeal of my mother's illness
without the support and help of the
friends I made at the Support Group.
You will find new friends who are
sympathetic and helpful in dealing with
situations as they come up. Different
caregivers are dealing with different
stages of the disease, and they can be
very helpful when new symptoms and
problems arise. There is also the
socialization factor. It is lovely to make
friends with people who have the same
problems you do. Many people end up
socializing outside of the support group
meetings, often with the family
members they are caring for. One
doesn't have to apologize or be
apprehensive about less than perfect
manners or behavior. I hope you know
about the Sunday Socialization parties
for caregivers and their loved ones.That
is another opportunity to make friends.
Face to face encounters, for me, are
always preferable to telephone
conversations or Internet mailings or
chat rooms. Somehow, putting a face to
a name is so much more meaningful.
Stephanie Cohen
welcomes questions
relating to Alzheimer’s
disease
or
caregiving. Please
send
your
inquiries to “Ask
Stephanie,” c/o the
Alzheimer’s Association, 2 Jefferson
Plaza, Ste. 103, Poughkeepsie, NY
12601 or to info@alzhudsonvalley.org.
By the way, if your husband is in the
early stages of Alzheimer’s, you might
very well consider an Early Stage
Support Group for him. The men and
women who are in these groups are
very gratified to be with people who
understand their problems, and
socialize with them.
Please try to attend a few Support
Group meetings. There are meetings
during the day, and at night. Since I do
not drive at night, I attended during the
day. I found great solace, and even
enjoyed a laugh or two at these meetings.
They also provided a chance for me to
leave the house for a few hours off,
which certainly couldn't happen when
I was on the computer, and my mother
kept asking why I was typing so much,and
why I couldn't pay more attention to her
I wish you and your dear husband well,
and want to remind you to take good
care of yourself. Caregivers are not
effective if they are exhausted or ill. As
always, please feel free to call us for any
information, or help we can give. I am
sure you know we do not charge for
our services.
Stephanie
Thank You!
Special thanks to the U.S. Administration
on Aging, the New York State Office for
the Aging, and Dutchess County Office
for the Aging for partial funding of the
Hudson Valley/Rockland/Westchester,
NY Chapter’s fall educational conference.
newscope
Page 5
Alzheimer’s Association Winter Programs
Save These Dates!
Caregiving Series
The annual Spring Educational Conference
sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association,
Hudson Valley/Rockland/Westchester,
NY Chapter, will be held this year at the
Holiday Inn, Suffern, on Friday, May
11, 2007.
The eight modules in our Caregiving Series, covering a full
range of caregiver issues, will be offered at different times
and in different locations throughout the year. Each
program is 1-2 hours long. Caregivers may select whichever
programs are of interest.
The keynote speaker will be Dr.
William Thies, Vice President for
Medical and Scientific Relations at the
National Alzheimer’s Association. Dr.
Thies oversees the world’s largest private,
nonprofit Alzheimer’s disease research
grants program. He has also played a
key role in launching Alzheimer’s &
Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s
Association and in establishing the Research
Roundtable, a consortium of senior
scientists from industry, academia and
government who convene to explore
common barriers to drug discovery.
Where: Alzheimer’s Association, 2 Jefferson Plaza,
Ste. 103, Poughkeepsie, NY
When: Wednesday, March 7, 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Info/Registration: Alzheimer’s Assoc., 845-471-2655
Conference brochures will be mailed
in early April. To ensure you receive a
brochure, please call the Chapter’s
Rockland Regional Office, 845-6396776, or call 1-800-872-0994.
The Alzheimer’s Association’s Annual
Adele Rohrlich Memorial Lecture
will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday,
May 15, 2007 at Hudson Valley
Hospital Center in Cortlandt Manor, NY.
The featured speaker, Teepa Snow,
MS, OTR/L, FAOTA, a nationallyknown expert in geriatrics, dementia
care, functional abilities and individual
care. The topic of her talk will be
“Positive Interactions: Understanding
the Person with Dementia.”
Later the same day, Ms. Snow will
present a four-hour workshop,
“Dementia Caregiving: Building Skills
for Successful Hands-on Care,” for
nursing assistants, nurses, recreation
staff, and home health care staff.
For further information, please call the
Chapter’s Westchester Regional Office,
914-428-1919, or call 1-800-872-0994.
Strategies for Safety in the Home
Managing Difficult Behaviors: Handling
Resistance During Care
Where: Sunrise Assisted Living of New City, 233
N. Main St., New City, NY
When: Thursday, February 22, 2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Info/Reservations: 845-639-6776
Respite: Please call 845-639-6776 to reserve space
Caring for the Caregiver
Where: The Promenade at Blue Hill, 582 Veterans
Memorial Dr., Pearl River, NY
When: Tuesday, March 13, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Info/Reservations: 845-639-6776
Respite: Please call 845-639-6776 to reserve space.
Legal and Financial Planning, Concerns about
Abuse, and Community Resources for Caregivers
Speakers will include Robin P. Freimann, Attorney at Law;
Susan Ferlauto, Pace University Law School Women's Justice
Center; and Illese Forgang, LMSW, Geriatric Care Manager.
Where: Larchmont Temple, 75 Larchmont Ave.,
Larchmont, NY
When: Thursday, April 19, 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Info/Registration: Alzheimer’s Assoc., 914-428-1919
Dementia Care Training Program
This is a condensed version of the Dementia Care Specialist
Program, taught by Meg Boyce, LMSW. Topics include
General Information about Alzheimer's Disease and Related
Disorders, The Art of Communication, Managing
Challenging Behaviors, and Caring for the Caregiver.
Where: Business Resource Center, Ulster County
Community College,1 Development Ct.,Kingston,NY.
When: Saturday, March 31, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Fee: $49, payable to Ulster County Community College
Info/Registration: For info about the course, contact
Meg Boyce, 1-800-872-0994. To register, contact
Ulster County Community College, 339-2025.
Social/Activities Programs
The Thursday Club
What: A bi-weekly Activity Program for early-stage
individuals who need activities more than a support group.
Sponsored by the Alzheimer's Association in cooperation
with Morningside House Adult Day Services, the program
is facilitated by Cathy Burke, Recreation Therapist, and is
concurrent with a support group for caregivers facilitated
by Lisa Goldberg, LMSW.
Where: Morningside House Adult Day Services, 50
Broadway, Hawthorne, NY.
When: 2nd and 4th Thursdays, 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Info/Reservations: Caregivers or individuals
interested in this program should contact Ellen
Imbiano at the Alzheimer’s Assoc., 914-428-1919.
Early-Stage Demonstration Project
What/When: Pottery Classes, dates TBD
Where: Barrett Clayworks, 485 Main St.
Poughkeepsie, NY
Info/Reservations: For information, call Meg
Boyce, 845-471-2655 or 1-800-872-0994
Celebrations
What: Individuals diagnosed with dementia and their primary
caregivers are invited to attend Sunday Social Programs
that offer fun, food, and an opportunity to maintain social
contacts in a comfortable, non-judgmental atmosphere.
Where: Burke Rehabilitation Center (Bldg. 7,
Room G-41) 785 Mamaroneck Ave,White Plains, NY.
When: Sundays, Mar. 25 and Apr. 22,12:30 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Info/Reservations: The programs are free, but
space is limited and reservations are required. For
reservations, please call 914-428-1919.
What: “Smell” the Roses and “Tempt” your Taste Buds!
Chef Shawn Comfort will present a sweet program--an easy
chocolate demonstration highlighting the benefits of dark
chocolate and fruits in our diet. Also, Ag Educator Tara
Berescik and student volunteers from the Tri-Valley Future
Farmers of America will demonstrate flower arranging and help
participants create “Roundy Moundies.” All caregivers and
Alzheimer families will be able to leave with a flower
arrangement! Refreshments will be served.
Where: Cornell Coop. Ext., 64 Loomis Rd.,
Liberty, NY
When: Friday, February 23, at 7 pm.
Info/Reservations: Please call 845-794-3774 or
292-5250, ext. 122 to reserve your spot for this free
program so we can can prepare needed materials.
newscope
Page 6
Memory Walk ‘06 - A Huge Success!
Once again, friends of the Alzheimer's
Association made the 2006 Memory
Walk a huge success! We are close to
reaching our $350,000 goal, and pledges
and matching gifts continue to come in!
Thanks to our Sponsors:
National Presenting Sponsor
Genworth Financial
National Corporate Sponsors
Creative Memories
Kindred Healthcare
Silver Sponsors & Media Partners
Atria Senior Living Group
CRM: Compensation Risk Managers
1-866-I Don't Know
Ridgefield Crossings
WPDH (101.5 FM/ 106.3 FM/ 106.1 FM)
WRRV (92.7 FM/ 96.9 FM)
Mix 97.7 (97.7 FM)
The Wolf (94.3 FM/ 97.3 FM)
WKNY (1490 AM)
Radio Disney (1390 AM/ 1340 AM)
Bronze Sponsors & Community Partners
Ancient Order of Hibernians
Burke Rehabilitation Hospital
Classic Residence by Hyatt
Crystal Run Healthcare
Elant, Inc.
Friedwald Center for Rehab. & Nursing
Hebrew Hospital Home
Kiwanis International
Kiwanis - Circle K
Kiwanis - Key Club
Morningside House ADHCP
Ortho-McNeil Neurologics, Inc.
Senior Bridge
The Seabury at Fieldhome
The Wartburg Adult Care Community
Willow Towers
Copper Sponsors
A&T Healthcare
Edna Lillian Roker Social ADC
Center
Elant at Brandywine
Elant at Fishkill Health Center
Health Quest
Hearthstone at The Esplanade, Palisades
Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union
Kingston Hospital
Makovic Designer Homes
Northern Services Group
Orange Regional Medical Center
Pier Sixty
Putnam Ridge Nursing Home
St. Joseph's Nursing Home
Schnurmacher Nursing Home
Somers Manor Nursing Home
Sunrise Senior Living of Westchester
Sunrise Senior Living of New City
The Fountains at Rivervue
The Osborn
The Promenade at Blue Hill
The Woodlands
TD Banknorth
ValleyView Ctr.for Nursing Care and Rehab.
Thanks also to all our teams and
individual walkers. We would especially
like to recognize the outstanding efforts
of the 42 Walkers who heard the call
and who each raised more than $1,000!
$10,000+
Shelley Danziger,
in memory of Yetta Heitner
$7,500 - $9,999
Joan & Alan Zale
$5,000 - $7,499
Peter Brent
Alex Danziger
Martin Olivieri, Jr.
$2,500 - $4,999
Marian Crapanzano
Catie Lucas
Kevin and Kristin Mulvey
Deborah Niven
Michael Sabatino
Myrna Sameth
Barbara Van Wie
$1,000 - $2,499
Shelly Berger
Ken Carter
Kris Charter
Laurence & Denise DeGennaro
Kenneth Folster
Richard & Kathy Fraites
John Gaffney
Claire Hodgdon
Sister Anne-Marie Kirmse
Nicole Klammer
newscope
Page 7
Thank You for Your Support
Margaret Lachmann
Regina Minena
Edward Moore
Dennis Murphy
Nancy O'Connor
Denise O'Neil
Frances Pantaleo, Esq.
Mary Anne Rathmann
Helen Rossetti
Benjamin Salomon
Vicki Savitch
Janet Scherf
Stephanie Small
Brian Stitzel
Marianne Taylor
Christine Tsaldaris
Patricia Vetterman
Louis Werbalowsky
Claudia White
Victor Zugibe, Inc.
Learn how you can join this elite group
of fundraisers next year, by raising
$1,000 or more during Memory Walk
2007. Contact your local Memory
Walk Coordinator &/or watch for
kick-off dates in future editions of
newscope for more information!
Congratulations also to our chapter's
Top Fundraising Teams for Memory
Walk 2006 (standings as of walk wrapup events):
Dutchess County
1st Place: Brent Financial Group
Captain: Peter Brent
2nd Place: Team Betty Folster
Captains,Kenneth & Patti Folster & Joan Greene
3rd Place: Memory Lane Walkers
Captain, Karen Skelton
Orange County
1st Place: Valley View Center
Captain, Ken Carter
2nd Place: Orange Regional Medical Ctr.
Captain, Frieda Napolitano
3rd Place: Park Manor Nursing Home
Captain, Kathy Mecca
Putnam County
1st Place: Ernie's Ts
Captain, Christine Tsaldaris
2nd Place: Mr. B's Buddies
Captain, Patricia Vetterman
3rd Place: Putnam County OFA: RSVP
Captain, Sidney J. Gibson
Rockland County
1st Place: False Echoes
Captains, Larry & Denise DeGennaro
2nd Place: Sharp Memories
Captain, Camille Sharp
3rd Place: Olympus
Captain, Kathleen Maier
Sullivan County
1st Place: The SC Chamber of Commerce
Captain, Lisa Mills
2nd Place: Community Bank of Sullivan Co.
Captain, Alice Newell
3rd Place: Clarice's Classics
Captain, Marcia Fink
Ulster County
1st Place: Rotron Roadrunners
Captain, Margaret Lachmann
2nd Place: The Thompson House
Captain, Susan Close
3rd Place: Team A.E.K.
Captains, Linda Lendvay & Flora Whitter
Westchester County
1st Place: Bronx/Westchester So. Kiwanis
Captain, Sister Anne Marie Kirmse
2nd Place: For All the Parents
Captain, Nancy O’Connor
3rd Place: Mary's Marchers
Captain, Carmen Chetti
Special Thanks to our committee
chairs, site hosts, media friends,
entertainers, and donors of
refreshments, prizes and goodie
bag items.
And thank you to all of the dedicated
Memory Walk Committee Members
and Day of Event Volunteers!
Committees are now forming for
Memory Walk 2007! Please contact
your local office of the Alzheimer's
Association to learn more about
volunteer opportunities with the walk
nearest you.
newscope
Page 6
Memory Walk ‘06 - A Huge Success!
Once again, friends of the Alzheimer's
Association made the 2006 Memory
Walk a huge success! We are close to
reaching our $350,000 goal, and pledges
and matching gifts continue to come in!
Thanks to our Sponsors:
National Presenting Sponsor
Genworth Financial
National Corporate Sponsors
Creative Memories
Kindred Healthcare
Silver Sponsors & Media Partners
Atria Senior Living Group
CRM: Compensation Risk Managers
1-866-I Don't Know
Ridgefield Crossings
WPDH (101.5 FM/ 106.3 FM/ 106.1 FM)
WRRV (92.7 FM/ 96.9 FM)
Mix 97.7 (97.7 FM)
The Wolf (94.3 FM/ 97.3 FM)
WKNY (1490 AM)
Radio Disney (1390 AM/ 1340 AM)
Bronze Sponsors & Community Partners
Ancient Order of Hibernians
Burke Rehabilitation Hospital
Classic Residence by Hyatt
Crystal Run Healthcare
Elant, Inc.
Friedwald Center for Rehab. & Nursing
Hebrew Hospital Home
Kiwanis International
Kiwanis - Circle K
Kiwanis - Key Club
Morningside House ADHCP
Ortho-McNeil Neurologics, Inc.
Senior Bridge
The Seabury at Fieldhome
The Wartburg Adult Care Community
Willow Towers
Copper Sponsors
A&T Healthcare
Edna Lillian Roker Social ADC
Center
Elant at Brandywine
Elant at Fishkill Health Center
Health Quest
Hearthstone at The Esplanade, Palisades
Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union
Kingston Hospital
Makovic Designer Homes
Northern Services Group
Orange Regional Medical Center
Pier Sixty
Putnam Ridge Nursing Home
St. Joseph's Nursing Home
Schnurmacher Nursing Home
Somers Manor Nursing Home
Sunrise Senior Living of Westchester
Sunrise Senior Living of New City
The Fountains at Rivervue
The Osborn
The Promenade at Blue Hill
The Woodlands
TD Banknorth
ValleyView Ctr.for Nursing Care and Rehab.
Thanks also to all our teams and
individual walkers. We would especially
like to recognize the outstanding efforts
of the 42 Walkers who heard the call
and who each raised more than $1,000!
$10,000+
Shelley Danziger,
in memory of Yetta Heitner
$7,500 - $9,999
Joan & Alan Zale
$5,000 - $7,499
Peter Brent
Alex Danziger
Martin Olivieri, Jr.
$2,500 - $4,999
Marian Crapanzano
Catie Lucas
Kevin and Kristin Mulvey
Deborah Niven
Michael Sabatino
Myrna Sameth
Barbara Van Wie
$1,000 - $2,499
Shelly Berger
Ken Carter
Kris Charter
Laurence & Denise DeGennaro
Kenneth Folster
Richard & Kathy Fraites
John Gaffney
Claire Hodgdon
Sister Anne-Marie Kirmse
Nicole Klammer
newscope
Page 7
Thank You for Your Support
Margaret Lachmann
Regina Minena
Edward Moore
Dennis Murphy
Nancy O'Connor
Denise O'Neil
Frances Pantaleo, Esq.
Mary Anne Rathmann
Helen Rossetti
Benjamin Salomon
Vicki Savitch
Janet Scherf
Stephanie Small
Brian Stitzel
Marianne Taylor
Christine Tsaldaris
Patricia Vetterman
Louis Werbalowsky
Claudia White
Victor Zugibe, Inc.
Learn how you can join this elite group
of fundraisers next year, by raising
$1,000 or more during Memory Walk
2007. Contact your local Memory
Walk Coordinator &/or watch for
kick-off dates in future editions of
newscope for more information!
Congratulations also to our chapter's
Top Fundraising Teams for Memory
Walk 2006 (standings as of walk wrapup events):
Dutchess County
1st Place: Brent Financial Group
Captain: Peter Brent
2nd Place: Team Betty Folster
Captains,Kenneth & Patti Folster & Joan Greene
3rd Place: Memory Lane Walkers
Captain, Karen Skelton
Orange County
1st Place: Valley View Center
Captain, Ken Carter
2nd Place: Orange Regional Medical Ctr.
Captain, Frieda Napolitano
3rd Place: Park Manor Nursing Home
Captain, Kathy Mecca
Putnam County
1st Place: Ernie's Ts
Captain, Christine Tsaldaris
2nd Place: Mr. B's Buddies
Captain, Patricia Vetterman
3rd Place: Putnam County OFA: RSVP
Captain, Sidney J. Gibson
Rockland County
1st Place: False Echoes
Captains, Larry & Denise DeGennaro
2nd Place: Sharp Memories
Captain, Camille Sharp
3rd Place: Olympus
Captain, Kathleen Maier
Sullivan County
1st Place: The SC Chamber of Commerce
Captain, Lisa Mills
2nd Place: Community Bank of Sullivan Co.
Captain, Alice Newell
3rd Place: Clarice's Classics
Captain, Marcia Fink
Ulster County
1st Place: Rotron Roadrunners
Captain, Margaret Lachmann
2nd Place: The Thompson House
Captain, Susan Close
3rd Place: Team A.E.K.
Captains, Linda Lendvay & Flora Whitter
Westchester County
1st Place: Bronx/Westchester So. Kiwanis
Captain, Sister Anne Marie Kirmse
2nd Place: For All the Parents
Captain, Nancy O’Connor
3rd Place: Mary's Marchers
Captain, Carmen Chetti
Special Thanks to our committee
chairs, site hosts, media friends,
entertainers, and donors of
refreshments, prizes and goodie
bag items.
And thank you to all of the dedicated
Memory Walk Committee Members
and Day of Event Volunteers!
Committees are now forming for
Memory Walk 2007! Please contact
your local office of the Alzheimer's
Association to learn more about
volunteer opportunities with the walk
nearest you.
newscope
Page 8
Caregiving
Dear Stephanie:
You have written a lot about Support
Groups. But I wonder why you don't write
about the Internet Chat Rooms that deal
with Alzheimer's disease.
There is a Support Group near my home,
but I wonder if I need to go to such a group.
My husband was recently diagnosed and is
in the very early stages of Alzheimer's.
Anne in Armonk
Dear Anne,
I very strongly urge you to attend a
Face-to-Face Support Group. While
the Internet can provide a great deal of
information, and is certainly a valuable
resource for family members who for
one reason or another cannot get to a
Support Group meeting, there is
nothing like being with one’s peers
who are facing the same problems. I
know that I could never have gotten
through the ordeal of my mother's illness
without the support and help of the
friends I made at the Support Group.
You will find new friends who are
sympathetic and helpful in dealing with
situations as they come up. Different
caregivers are dealing with different
stages of the disease, and they can be
very helpful when new symptoms and
problems arise. There is also the
socialization factor. It is lovely to make
friends with people who have the same
problems you do. Many people end up
socializing outside of the support group
meetings, often with the family
members they are caring for. One
doesn't have to apologize or be
apprehensive about less than perfect
manners or behavior. I hope you know
about the Sunday Socialization parties
for caregivers and their loved ones.That
is another opportunity to make friends.
Face to face encounters, for me, are
always preferable to telephone
conversations or Internet mailings or
chat rooms. Somehow, putting a face to
a name is so much more meaningful.
Stephanie Cohen
welcomes questions
relating to Alzheimer’s
disease
or
caregiving. Please
send
your
inquiries to “Ask
Stephanie,” c/o the
Alzheimer’s Association, 2 Jefferson
Plaza, Ste. 103, Poughkeepsie, NY
12601 or to info@alzhudsonvalley.org.
By the way, if your husband is in the
early stages of Alzheimer’s, you might
very well consider an Early Stage
Support Group for him. The men and
women who are in these groups are
very gratified to be with people who
understand their problems, and
socialize with them.
Please try to attend a few Support
Group meetings. There are meetings
during the day, and at night. Since I do
not drive at night, I attended during the
day. I found great solace, and even
enjoyed a laugh or two at these meetings.
They also provided a chance for me to
leave the house for a few hours off,
which certainly couldn't happen when
I was on the computer, and my mother
kept asking why I was typing so much,and
why I couldn't pay more attention to her
I wish you and your dear husband well,
and want to remind you to take good
care of yourself. Caregivers are not
effective if they are exhausted or ill. As
always, please feel free to call us for any
information, or help we can give. I am
sure you know we do not charge for
our services.
Stephanie
Thank You!
Special thanks to the U.S. Administration
on Aging, the New York State Office for
the Aging, and Dutchess County Office
for the Aging for partial funding of the
Hudson Valley/Rockland/Westchester,
NY Chapter’s fall educational conference.
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Page 5
Alzheimer’s Association Winter Programs
Save These Dates!
Caregiving Series
The annual Spring Educational Conference
sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association,
Hudson Valley/Rockland/Westchester,
NY Chapter, will be held this year at the
Holiday Inn, Suffern, on Friday, May
11, 2007.
The eight modules in our Caregiving Series, covering a full
range of caregiver issues, will be offered at different times
and in different locations throughout the year. Each
program is 1-2 hours long. Caregivers may select whichever
programs are of interest.
The keynote speaker will be Dr.
William Thies, Vice President for
Medical and Scientific Relations at the
National Alzheimer’s Association. Dr.
Thies oversees the world’s largest private,
nonprofit Alzheimer’s disease research
grants program. He has also played a
key role in launching Alzheimer’s &
Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s
Association and in establishing the Research
Roundtable, a consortium of senior
scientists from industry, academia and
government who convene to explore
common barriers to drug discovery.
Where: Alzheimer’s Association, 2 Jefferson Plaza,
Ste. 103, Poughkeepsie, NY
When: Wednesday, March 7, 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Info/Registration: Alzheimer’s Assoc., 845-471-2655
Conference brochures will be mailed
in early April. To ensure you receive a
brochure, please call the Chapter’s
Rockland Regional Office, 845-6396776, or call 1-800-872-0994.
The Alzheimer’s Association’s Annual
Adele Rohrlich Memorial Lecture
will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday,
May 15, 2007 at Hudson Valley
Hospital Center in Cortlandt Manor, NY.
The featured speaker, Teepa Snow,
MS, OTR/L, FAOTA, a nationallyknown expert in geriatrics, dementia
care, functional abilities and individual
care. The topic of her talk will be
“Positive Interactions: Understanding
the Person with Dementia.”
Later the same day, Ms. Snow will
present a four-hour workshop,
“Dementia Caregiving: Building Skills
for Successful Hands-on Care,” for
nursing assistants, nurses, recreation
staff, and home health care staff.
For further information, please call the
Chapter’s Westchester Regional Office,
914-428-1919, or call 1-800-872-0994.
Strategies for Safety in the Home
Managing Difficult Behaviors: Handling
Resistance During Care
Where: Sunrise Assisted Living of New City, 233
N. Main St., New City, NY
When: Thursday, February 22, 2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Info/Reservations: 845-639-6776
Respite: Please call 845-639-6776 to reserve space
Caring for the Caregiver
Where: The Promenade at Blue Hill, 582 Veterans
Memorial Dr., Pearl River, NY
When: Tuesday, March 13, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Info/Reservations: 845-639-6776
Respite: Please call 845-639-6776 to reserve space.
Legal and Financial Planning, Concerns about
Abuse, and Community Resources for Caregivers
Speakers will include Robin P. Freimann, Attorney at Law;
Susan Ferlauto, Pace University Law School Women's Justice
Center; and Illese Forgang, LMSW, Geriatric Care Manager.
Where: Larchmont Temple, 75 Larchmont Ave.,
Larchmont, NY
When: Thursday, April 19, 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Info/Registration: Alzheimer’s Assoc., 914-428-1919
Dementia Care Training Program
This is a condensed version of the Dementia Care Specialist
Program, taught by Meg Boyce, LMSW. Topics include
General Information about Alzheimer's Disease and Related
Disorders, The Art of Communication, Managing
Challenging Behaviors, and Caring for the Caregiver.
Where: Business Resource Center, Ulster County
Community College,1 Development Ct.,Kingston,NY.
When: Saturday, March 31, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Fee: $49, payable to Ulster County Community College
Info/Registration: For info about the course, contact
Meg Boyce, 1-800-872-0994. To register, contact
Ulster County Community College, 339-2025.
Social/Activities Programs
The Thursday Club
What: A bi-weekly Activity Program for early-stage
individuals who need activities more than a support group.
Sponsored by the Alzheimer's Association in cooperation
with Morningside House Adult Day Services, the program
is facilitated by Cathy Burke, Recreation Therapist, and is
concurrent with a support group for caregivers facilitated
by Lisa Goldberg, LMSW.
Where: Morningside House Adult Day Services, 50
Broadway, Hawthorne, NY.
When: 2nd and 4th Thursdays, 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Info/Reservations: Caregivers or individuals
interested in this program should contact Ellen
Imbiano at the Alzheimer’s Assoc., 914-428-1919.
Early-Stage Demonstration Project
What/When: Pottery Classes, dates TBD
Where: Barrett Clayworks, 485 Main St.
Poughkeepsie, NY
Info/Reservations: For information, call Meg
Boyce, 845-471-2655 or 1-800-872-0994
Celebrations
What: Individuals diagnosed with dementia and their primary
caregivers are invited to attend Sunday Social Programs
that offer fun, food, and an opportunity to maintain social
contacts in a comfortable, non-judgmental atmosphere.
Where: Burke Rehabilitation Center (Bldg. 7,
Room G-41) 785 Mamaroneck Ave,White Plains, NY.
When: Sundays, Mar. 25 and Apr. 22,12:30 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Info/Reservations: The programs are free, but
space is limited and reservations are required. For
reservations, please call 914-428-1919.
What: “Smell” the Roses and “Tempt” your Taste Buds!
Chef Shawn Comfort will present a sweet program--an easy
chocolate demonstration highlighting the benefits of dark
chocolate and fruits in our diet. Also, Ag Educator Tara
Berescik and student volunteers from the Tri-Valley Future
Farmers of America will demonstrate flower arranging and help
participants create “Roundy Moundies.” All caregivers and
Alzheimer families will be able to leave with a flower
arrangement! Refreshments will be served.
Where: Cornell Coop. Ext., 64 Loomis Rd.,
Liberty, NY
When: Friday, February 23, at 7 pm.
Info/Reservations: Please call 845-794-3774 or
292-5250, ext. 122 to reserve your spot for this free
program so we can can prepare needed materials.
Page 4
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Alzheimer’s Association Winter Programs
Understanding Memory Loss
What: This program will cover general information about
normal and abnormal memory loss, including the ten
warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease, how to get a proper
diagnosis, stages of the disease, related disorders, and
medications currently available.
w
w
w
Where: Suffern Free Library, 210 Lafayette Ave.,
Suffern, NY
When: Monday, March 19, 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Info/Registration: Alzheimer's Assoc., 845-639-6776
Where: Fallsburg Library, 12 Railroad Plaza, South
Fallsburg, NY.
When: Thursday, April 5, 2007, 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Info/Registration: Alzheimer’s Assoc.,845-794-3774.
What: A special invitation for family caregivers and
professionals to learn about chapter programs and services.
w
Where: Ulster County Office for the Aging, 400
Stockade Dr., Kingston, NY
When: 12 p.m. - 2 p.m.,Wednesday, February 14
(snow date:Wednesday, February 28)
Info/Registration: Alzheimer’s Assoc., 845-340-8474
w
w
w
What: Persons recently diagnosed with early stage memory
loss and their care partners are invited to a 4-week seminar.
Topics to be discussed will include the nature of memory/
cognitive disorders, taking control of the "problem," memory
enhancement, management of symptoms, issues such as
driving, family issues, depression and anxiety, legal and
financial planning, and supports and resources available.
Where: Alzheimer’s Association, 785 Mamaroneck
Ave., Building 4, Room 307,White Plains, NY.
When: Days and time TBD.
Info: For further information, please call Ellen
Imbiano at the Alzheimer’s Association, 914-428-1919.
Where: Jeffersonville Public Library, Center &
Jeffersonville Avenues, Jeffersonville, NY
When: March 22, 2007, 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Info/Registration: Alzheimer's Assoc., 845-794-3774
Getting Connected
w
Taking Control of Memory Impairment: An
Education Program for Persons with Early
Memory Loss and Their Care Partners
Alzheimer’s Disease: Across the Stages
A series of three informational programs for family and
professional caregivers that will be offered at varied times
throughout our chapter territory:
“An Orientation to AD” is suitable for the person with
dementia as well as family members. The last program is a
panel with representatives from various care communities.
w
Dutchess/Ulster Regional Office: Wednesday,
March 14, 12 noon - 2 p.m.
Orange/Sullivan Regional Office: Wednesday,
March 21, 12 noon - 3 p.m.
Rockland Regional Office: Wednesday,
February 7, 12 noon - 1 p.m. and Wednesday,
March 7, 12 noon - 1 p.m.
Westchester Regional Office: Wednesday,
March 28, 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Info/Registration: Please call local offices (see back page)
w
w
Other Programs
Partnering with Your Doctor
Where: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public
Library, 10 W. Ramapo Road, Garnerville, NY
When: Monday, February 26, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Info/Registration: 845-639-6776
w
What: An Orientation to Alzheimer’s Disease—A
Medical Introduction to Dementia, Diagnosis, &
Treatment,with Dr.Jeffrey Escher,a well-known geriatrician
and member of the Memory Evaluation Treatment
Service at Burke Rehabilitation Hospital
Where: Sunrise Senior Living,500 N.Columbus Ave.,
Mt.Vernon, NY
When: Tuesday, March 27, 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Info/Registration: Alzheimer’s Assoc., 914-428-1919
What: Living with Change As Alzheimer’s Progresses
Where: Catskill Regional Medical Center,
Adult Day Care Center
When: Monday, February 5, 7 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Info/Registration: Alzheimer’s Assoc., 845-794-3774
What: Living with Change As Alzheimer’s Progresses
Where: Alzheimer’s Association White Plains Office
When:Wednesday, February 28, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Info/Registration: Alzheimer’s Assoc., 914-428-1919
What: Exploring Future Care Options
Where: Alzheimer’s Association White Plains Office
When:Wednesday, March 28, 10:30 a.m. - noon
Info/Registration: Alzheimer’s Assoc., 914-428-1919
Alzheimer’s Association Support Groups
Page 9
All support groups are free and open to the public, but pre-registration is required. Since the number of
groups offered has grown, we can no longer include detailed information about each group in the newsletter.
For exact location, support group leader contact information, and general questions, or to confirm a group is
meeting in case of inclement weather, please call your local chapter office (see back page).
FAMILY SUPPORT
GROUPS
** Nanuet
Meals on Wheels
Weds., weekly, 1 p.m.
Mount Vernon
Sunrise Assisted Living
Last Thursday, 6-7:30 p.m.
New City
Sunrise Senior Living
2nd/4th Mon., 6:30-8 p.m.
Mount Vernon
The Meadowview at Wartburg
1st & 3rd Weds., 2-3:30 p.m.
Hopewell Junction
Hopewell Reformed Church
3rd Tues., 1 p.m.
Palisades
Esplanade
2nd /4th Thursdays, 1 p.m.
Poughkeepsie
Alzheimer’s Association
1st Wed., 11 a.m.
New: Port Chester
1st/3rd Thurs., 10-11:30 a.m.
Contact Ruth Ahearn,
914-428-1919, for information.
Pearl River
Pearl River Meth. Church
Last Tues., 7:30 p.m.
Rhinebeck
The Thompson House
2nd Mon., 6 p.m.
SULLIVAN COUNTY
Harris
Catskill Regional Medical Ctr.
1st Mon., 7 p.m.
Sleepy Hollow
Phelps Memorial Hospital
1st/3rd Th., 7:30-9 p.m.
#### Harris
Catskill Regional Medical Ctr.
3rd Mon., 7 p.m.
Somers
Call Ruth Ahearn,
914-428-1919 for info.
ULSTER COUNTY
Ellenville
Canal Lodge Adult Day Care
4th Wed., 1 p.m.
Valhalla
Westchester Meadows
2nd/4th Tues., 4-5:30 p.m.
DUTCHESS COUNTY
Beacon
Fishkill Health Center
3rd Wed., 3 p.m.
ORANGE COUNTY
** Goshen
Valley View Center for
Nursing & Rehabilitation
Last Mon., 7 p.m.
** Goshen
Valley View Center for
Nursing & Rehabilitation
2nd Tues., 2-3:30pm
** Middletown
Webb Horton Pres. Church
3rd Wed., 11 a.m.
Newburgh
Elant at Newburgh Conf. Rm.
2nd Tues., 7 p.m.
PUTNAM COUNTY
Carmel
The Plaza at Clover Lake
2nd/4th Wed., 6:30-8 p.m.
ROCKLAND COUNTY
#### Haverstraw
Action Partnership
(CAPROC)
1st Wednesday, 7-9 p.m.
** Kingston
Greenkill Ave. ADC
2nd Tues., 3 p.m.
Woodstock
Christ Lutheran Church
3rd Tues., 2 p.m.
WESTCHESTER COUNTY
Cortlandt Manor
The Seabury at Fieldhome
1st/3rd Wed., 10-11:30 a.m.
Hawthorne
Morningside House ADC
2nd/4th Thurs., 10-11:15 a.m.
## Mt. Kisco
Call for information,
914-428-1919
Rye
The Osborn
2nd/4th Tues, 2-3:30 p.m.
White Plains
Alzheimer’s Association
2nd/4th Mon., 10-11:30 a.m.
White Plains
Alzheimer’s Association
2nd/4th Wed., 6:30-8 p.m.
Closed to newcomers due to size
New, starting 2/19:White Plains
Alzheimer’s Association
1st/3rd Mon., 6:30-8 p.m.
* White Plains
Alzheimer’s Association
1st/3rd Mon., 2:30-4 p.m.
#### White Plains
Call for information,
914-428-1919.
EARLY-STAGE GROUPS
Note: pre-registration
interviews are required. For
an appointment, please call
the staff member listed
below.
ORANGE COUNTY
Sarah Ruter, 845-342-2247
DUTCHESS COUNTY
Meg Boyce, 845-471-2655
ROCKLAND COUNTY
Camille Sharp, 845-639-6776
WESTCHESTER COUNTY
Ellen Imbiano, 914-428-1919
A Fond Farewell!
Thank you to Carole and
Clayton Hager for their
commitment and dedication
as support group leaders
over the past five years.
Their loyalty to their group
made their decision to step
back difficult. They will
remain involved with the
Chapter in other ways!
Not Able
to Attend a
Support Group?
Help is just a mouse click
away at the Alzheimer’s
Association’s message boards
and chat room at www.alz.org.
The forums for online
conversation allow people
to discuss issues and share
thoughts and experiences.
Among the 10 forums are
groups for caregivers, health
professionals, and people
with memory loss.
* Early Stage Caregivers ** Free respite is offered during the group (pre-registration is required).
## Adult Children Caregivers #### Spanish-speaking Group
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Chapter News
Recent Special Events
8th Annual Golf Tournament
Raises Over $67,000
The Alzheimer's Association’s 2006 Golf Tournament provided
a non-stop day of fun as golfers, sponsors and volunteers
enjoyed a BBQ lunch, 18 holes of golf (Scramble Format),
course refreshments, cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, and a buffet
dinner.Tourney presentations, day of event raffles, top team and
skill prizes, and a major raffle drawing rounded out the day.
Held at the Hampshire Country Club in Mamaroneck, NY,
the event generated vital funds for the Alzheimer’s
Association, raising over $67,000 to support our full mission
of research, education, advocacy, and support!
Rockland Goes Italian
Thank you to the Hon. John
Murphy (Committee Chair and
Rockland County legislator), Dr.
Nunzio Pomara, and all the
dedicated committee volunteers
for making the Alzheimer’s
Association’s first “Eat Italian”
fundraiser last October a reality!
Participating restaurants included Del Arte, Orangeburg Heather’s Open Cucina, Nyack - Scoozi Restaurant,
Garnerville - Gennaro’s Restaurant, Stony Point - La Terraza,
New City - Pasta Cucina, Stony Point - Mia Cucina,
Blauvelt - Caffe Dolce, Suffern - Mariella’s, New City - and
Lanterna Tuscan Bistro, Nyack.
Luminary Ceremony Is Tribute to
Love and Courage
From left to right: Fred Haffner, long -time tournament committee
member/supporter, Ron and Donna Sylvestri,Tournament Co-chairs,
& Tom Foldy, long-time tournament committee member/supporter.
The tournament was hosted by the New York City District
Council of Carpenters Relief and Charity Fund and was cochaired by Ronald Sylvestri, Senior Vice President of
Hudson Valley Bank and Donna Sylvestri, President of
Madison Home Management, founders of the tournament.
The Alzheimer's Association wishes to thank the event's sponsors,
chairpersons, committee members, and day-of-event
volunteers for their dedication to making the event such a
success. Special thanks also go to our major raffle donors,
American Airlines, Ron & Donna Sylvestri, and Jim & Gail
Vernon.
Two Very Special Events
Fifty people celebrated National Alzheimer’s Disease
Awareness Month by gathering together during a crisp,
beautiful fall evening at Mahopac Chamber of Commerce
Park and lighting over 190 luminaries in honor of and in
memory of friends and family members who have been
affected by Alzheimer’s disease or a related illness.
Many thanks to event visionary Richard Reynolds and the
Putnam County Memory Walk Committee for making the
Luminary Ceremony possible, to program participants
Sheila Gayle, Michael Battenfeld, the Rev.Timothy Wiggins,
Radovich & Dean Music, and The Plaza at Clover Lake, and
to the Alzheimer’s Association’s Stuart Greif who wrote the
moving dedication presented during the ceremony.
Holiday Celebration with Elvis!!!
We are grateful once again to
Eric Bressi, a.k.a. Elvis, for
entertaining at the Alzheimer’s
Association’s December social
event in Sullivan County.
Thanks also to Bonnie Lewis
of the Caregiver Resource
Center for co-sponsoring
our socialization programs.
Noah Scheuermann, born to
Jennifer & Will Scheuermann
September 29, 2006
Emerson Joseph (EJ) Skelton,
born to Karen & John Skelton
January 16, 2007
Pictured are Cynthia Niven
and her mom Norma, who was
celebrating her 86th birthday!
Transitions
“No Money, No Mission”
The Alzheimer’s Association, Hudson Valley/Rockland/Westchester,
NY Chapter welcomes a new staff member and a new Board
member.
Former National Alzheimer’s Association Board Chair Orien
Reid used to say, “No money, no mission.” Both the
Alzheimer’s Association, Hudson Valley/Rockland/Westchester,
NY Chapter and our National headquarters in Chicago rely
on the generosity of donors to carry out our shared mission
of patient and family services, education, advocacy, and
research. Until recently we were competing with each other
for these vital funds. However, as of July 1, 2006, we changed
the way we were doing business!
Pamela Perkins-Dwyer joined the
Association in late November as
Special Events Manager in the
Poughkeepsie office. Pamela came to
us from the Poughkeepsie Journal,
where she was National Sales
Manager; previously she held positions
as an advertising account executive at ABC, USA Today,The
Los Angeles Times, and various consumer magazine
companies. In addition to her experience in marketing and
sales, she has created and participated in fundraising events, in
a volunteer capacity, for organizations such as the Barrett Art
Center, Jazz at Lincoln Center, the American Cancer Society,
and the New York Region of the National Council of
Negro Women.
Andrew B. Sillin was elected to the
Chapter’s Board of Directors in
December. Andy was born and raised
in Dutchess County and has lived in
Ulster County for the past 30 years.
Now on the brink of retirement, he
has served as Associate Dean for
Continuing Education at Dutchess
Community College for almost as long. As an Alzheimer’s
family member, he says, "I know of no better way to volunteer
my time than to be a part of the Alzheimer's Association." He
has previously served as President of SUNY's Career
Development Organization, Chairman of the Board of the
Dutchess Co. Chapter of the American Red Cross, a member
of the Board of Osiris Country Club, a member of ERVK's
Task Force on Racism, and a United Way Loaned Executive.
Job Opportunity
Our chapter is growing, and we are seeking to fill a new position
in our Poughkeepsie office! Responsibilities will include PR,
media relations, and marketing activities throughout our
chapter territory, as well as desktop publishing and design and
web-site management. Exper ience with gover nment
relations or an interest in public policy would be a plus.
You may have noticed that Alzheimer’s Association fundraising
appeals now look different and that the enclosed remittance
envelopes are addressed to a Post Office Box rather than to
a chapter office. This is because, while we are still separate
corporations with our own boards of directors, starting July
1 we adopted a new "shared fundraising" program. By raising
money together, we are reducing fundraising expenses while
sharing revenues in a mutually agreed-upon way.
These appeals are part of the Alzheimer's Association's direct
marketing program. The direct marketing program plays a
vital role in donor acquisition and renewal and is expected to
raise over $29 million to support our mission during the
current fiscal year. However, we understand that not
everyone likes to receive the premiums that some of these
appeals contain, or more than one appeal each year. If you
are receiving multiple mailings, or unwanted premiums, you
need only let us know your preferences and we will code our
database accordingly. Please be aware, however, that mailings
of this sort are started far in advance of the actual mail date, so
it may take up to three months for any changes to take effect.
Please be aware also that not all solicitations bearing
words “Alzheimer’s” or “Alzheimer’s research” are from
Alzheimer’s Association. To be sure you are donating to
highly-regarded Alzheimer's Association, please look for
logo on the front of this newsletter!
the
the
the
the
Chapter Offers Tax Information
for Caregivers
With tax season in full swing, you may be wondering how
tax laws may affect people with Alzheimer’s disease or their
care partners. Are the Costs of Caring for a Person with
Alzheimer’s Disease Deductible? explains how taxpayers may be
able to deduct long-term care costs, including the costs of
If this sounds like your dream job, please send a letter of nursing homes, assisted living facilities, respite care, adult day
interest and your résumé to Elaine Sproat, Alzheimer’s care, and other expenses.
Association, 2 Jefferson Plaza, Ste. 103, Poughkeepsie, NY
For a copy of the article, contact your local chapter office
12601. A complete job description is posted on our web site,
(see back page) or check the information on line at
www.alzhudsonvalley.org.
www.alz.org/documents/national/taxes.pdf.
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Memorials and Tributes
Chapter News
Board of Directors
Rochelle S. Berger, Chair
Bret Jacobowitz, First Vice Chair
Charlotte Östman, Second Vice Chair
Marian Crapanzano, Secretary
John Levin,Treasurer
Susan Bunce
Maureen Coughlin
Karen Ganis
William J. Higgins, M.D.
Debra Kagan-Birkeland
Debbie Marks Kahn
Melissa R. MacCaull
James B. McEvoy
Janet Newberg
Steven A. Schurkman
Andrew B. Sillin
Jannette Swanson
Marie Tarver
Staff
It’s not hard to understand why. Alzheimer’s
disease still carries a tremendous stigma. People
are afraid that they or their loved one will be
treated differently, that they will no longer be
allowed to carry on their favorite activities or to
enjoy their independence. Alzheimer’s is the last
taboo,one that has outlived cancer and AIDS.
Yet for attitudes to change, and to find an
effective treatment or cure, those who care
about Alzheimer’s need to speak out. We need
to tell our stories ... to raise the consciousness of
our friends and neighbors and legislators . . . to
make Alzheimer’s disease a national priority.
Elaine Sproat, President/CEO
Meg Boyce, Director, Programs & Services
Jennifer Scheuermann,Director,Finance & Operations We have two special opportunities in March to
Alison DaMore, Director of Development
do just that, and possibly to influence funding
Poughkeepsie
Gina Faustner, Program & Development Asst.
Karen J. Gauvin, Communications Specialist
Amy Kotash, Program & Development Asst.
Pamela Perkins-Dwyer, Special Events Manager
Alicia Terrana, Care Consultant
Mary Varano, Bookkeeper
Middletown
Sarah E. Ruter, Care Consultant
Janet Troia, Administrator, Regional Office
New City
Maria Paliotta,Administrator, Regional Office
Camille Sharp, Care Consultant
Barbara Webb, Care Consultant
Patterson
Stuart Greif, Program Development Specialist
White Plains
Ruth Ahearn,Assoc. Dir., Programs & Services
Ellen Imbiano, Care Consultant
Terry Kean, Special Events Manager
Erva Randolph,Helpline Coord./Admin.Asst.
©2007 Alzheimer's Association, Hudson Valley/ Rockland/
Westchester, NY Chapter, Inc., except where specifically
stated otherwise. All rights reserved. All material in
newscope is offered as information to our readers. The
Alzheimer’s Association, Hudson Valley/Rockland/
Westchester, NY Chapter cannot warrant, endorse, or
recommend any provider, program, or product.
We are grateful for all the memorials and tributes given to the Alzheimer’s Association. These gifts honor friends and loved
ones while helping us meet needs for education, family support, advocacy, and research. Listed below are individuals honored from
7/1/06 to 9/30/06.
Among Friends
Recently I had the opportunity to speak with
a member of one of our early-stage support
groups.“The word dementia sounds like ‘don’t
mention it,’” he said. “That’s how many
people feel about Alzheimer’s disease and
related disorders.”
for Alzheimer care and research as well.
The first is on Tuesday, March 6, when our
chapter will charter a bus and travel to Albany
to meet with our state legislators. The goal of
our state Advocacy Day is to put a personal
face on Alzheimer’s and to share concerns
related to living with or caring for someone
with dementia. That’s why we need you to
participate. The bus is FREE. It will leave from
Westchester and then
travel up the NewYork
S t a t e T h r u w a y,
stopping at exits 11,16,
17, 18, and 19. For
more information or to
make a reservation,
please call the chapter at
1-800-872-0994.
Memorials
The second opportunity to make a difference
is March 18-20, when the Alzheimer’s
Association Public Policy Forum will be
held in Washington,D.C.
The Forum will give us the chance to learn
about advocacy issues and to meet with our
members of Congress . . . to tell them why
Alzheimer’s is important to us and why we
must increase federal funding--now!--for
Alzheimer's research.
To reduce the cost of attending the
Public Policy Forum, this year’s Forum is
a day shorter than previous events, there
is a group registration discount, and our
chapter is offering a $600 scholarship to
an individual or couple who attend. For
more information about the Forum, go
to www.alz.org. To apply for the chapter
scholarship, please contact the chapter at
1-800-872-0994 by February 16.
Elaine Sproat
Don’t Mention It!
I have been diagnosed as having
dementia or early stage Alzheimer’s
disease. The word dementia is an
awful word--it almost sounds like
“don’t mention it.” And this is how
many people feel about it--don’t
mention it.
It is really not contagious like so
many other diseases which affect
our bodies.
It is a hidden
deterioration of the brain, which
no one can see! But, “they” can see
the effects of it on how a person
thinks and acts.
So far, I really don’t see the effects
Page 11
of this disease on my body or how
I act. But others apparently do!!
Actually, as I write this, I feel fine!
Maybe I’m a little more tired than
usual, but then again maybe not!
Oh well! For now, I’ll go along
with the diagnosis. And, certainly
I’ll be taking my medicine faithfully,
“just in case”! But, when you see
me, don’t treat me any different
than you used to. Be my friend!
And certainly I’ll continue to be
yours!! Thank you!
A Member of One of the Chapter’s
Early-Stage Support Groups
May Ackermann
Samuel Acquaro, Sr.
Kathryn Agnew
Michael Amoroso
Ivy Anders
Antoinette Armbruster
Rose Arrons
Mannie Asen
John Auld
John Baccalore
Shahan Baer
Isabelle M. Baker
Ceasar Barbieri
Dick Bennison
Dorothy A. Bevins
Camille Biancardi
Theodore Bicos
Walter Bischak
Ted Boniface
Kathleen Branigan
Marjorie Braun
Shirley Breiman
Fred Brenner
Dorothy Myrah Breuninger
Ted Brown
Roger Burns
Karolyn Caddle
Angelina Calligaro
Lillian Campanella
Robert Campbell
Vincent Capone
Louis Carollo
Frances Casterella
Evelyn Catalano
Anthony Colavito
Dr. Nancy Ann Condro
Paul Connell
Marjorie Cuomo
Michael "Mickey" Dahowski
Ann De Noble
Caye Devlin
John Diamond
Jeanette Dobson
Kathleen Elizabeth
Theresa Dolce
Mrs. Drennen
Virginia D'Siena
George Durham
Emma J. Dutcher
Theresa Falanga
James P. Fanning
Dorothy Feeney
Margurite Ferrara
Ralph Ferrusi
Lucille Field
Anita Fiocco
Theresa Flanga
Florence Fenichel
Aranka Fogel
Betty Owen Folster
Ruth I. Foster
Nicholas Franco
Felicia Gabryszewski
Robert Gage
Virginia Galati
Vivian Geitz
William J. Gerbe
Israel Goldstein
Barbara Ann Grasso
Nelson Greenberg
Wilson Guilianelli
Theresa Hafner
Florence Halperin
Winifred Hamill
Douglas Harris, Sr.
Minnie Harris
Dorothy Harvey
Yetta Heitner
Marion Holt
Floyd "Sonny" Hornbeck
Signe Jacobson
Rose A. Kay
Mildred Keegan
Ann Keller
Edwin Kennedy
Arminda Kerner
Beatrice Kirschenbaum
Anna Marie Kirtio
Fannie Labarbera
William P. Lane
Fran Lewis
Dasha Lifton
May Lipson
Ruth Luman
Erminia Macchia
Alfred Malecki
Ana Mayas
Genevieve McCabe
Alex McNeil
Dorothy Medovich
Joseph Meehan
George Mekss
Hilda Menshen
Mary Mileo
Grace Miracolo
Joseph Montano
Marie Moretti
A. S. Morrow, Jr.
Serafino "Sal" Mucci
Anita Muitz
Caroline C. Mulvey
Gertrude Nadel
Francesco "Frank" Nitti
Beatrice Obermeyer
Richard G. O'Dell
Kathleen O'Hare Branigan
Anna Olivieri
Ann Ondich
Hugo Pasquarelli
Betty Payne
Florence "Flo" Pendergast
Frances Perrin
Concetta Picciano
Lena Poritzky
Theresa Preece
Lena Puppolo
Edwin Purcell
Mrs. Quigley
Genevieve K. Reim
Cecelia Rescigno-House
Velma Ricci
Adelaide Rider
Theodore Rivlin
Ernestina Rodriguez
Mildred Rosi
Margaret Russo-Jones
Frank Sabella
Edna Sanzari
Betty Schneider
Bud Schreiber
Sara Sergio
Harry Sharp
Rose Siciliano
Margaret Simonetti
Marion Sloan
Viloet Spinola
Lillian Spree
Elliot Stahl
Dorothy Stein
Blanche Stone
Mildred Stutzbach
Elliot Sugarman
Kenneth Sutherland
Walter Szulwach
Marie J.Tangredi
Harold Thurston
Harold Todd
Josephine Turturro
Peter Coffin Vincent
Lucy Wallace
Helen Walls
Helen Waraniuk
Mr. Leslie Waters
Pauline Weber
Mr.Wolkin
Mildred Wrege
Bernadette Yandoli
Alexander Yiannakou
John Zoccolillo
Tributes
Arthur Abbadusky
Alzheimer's Association
Silver Anniversary
Charles Beagan
Viola T. Birdsall
Charles & Nancy Clarvit,
on their 25th anniversary
& Nancy's 50th birthday
Patricia Collins
Dr. Andrew Decker
Doris Dezarn
Arnold Feidelman
Beth Ann Fleming & Dave
Marris, on their wedding
Jerome Franklin
Mathilda Fuzo
Richard Gans, Esq.
Jay & Elenor Glat, on their
50th anniversary
Abe Gold,
on his 75th birthday
Ellen Greenfield
Emil Greif,
on his 90th birthday
Stuart Greif
Rita & Dick Haas
Edith Hershey
Jeff Kaufman
Alan Kenig
Dolly S. Marks
Jose Matta
Phyllis McGuire
Norma Ormland
Cathy Patterson
John Segalini
Eleaner Senft
The Regulars
Louis L.Vessecchia
Robert Weisman
Victor & Helen Welch
Dominic Yannocone
Esther Zitzerman
Save the date!
The Chapter’s annual black tie benefit,“A Night
of Wine & Roses,” will be held at The
Grandview, the
newest
addition
to
Poughkeepsie’s waterfront, on Saturday, April 28.
This very special event will honor Charles S.
North, President & CEO of the Poughkeepsie Area
Chamber of Commerce, and Elaine Sproat,
President & CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association,
Hudson Valley/Rockland/Westchester, NY Chapter.
To make early reservations, place an advertisement
or personal tribute in the event’s Souvenir
Journal, or donate an item for the evening’s
auction, please contact Pamela Perkins-Dwyer,
Special Events Manager, at 845-471-2655, 1800-972-0994, or Pamela.Dwyer@alz.org.
Hudson Valley/Rockland/Westchester, NY Chapter
Administrative Office
2 Jefferson Plaza, Ste. 103
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601-4060
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Poughkeepsie, NY
Permit No. 51
newscope
Newsletter of the Hudson Valley/Rockland/Westchester, NY Chapter
Published quarterly for our donors, volunteers, advocates, and friends in the Alzheimer’s community
Administrative Office and
Dutchess/Ulster Regional Office
D: 845-471-2655 U: 845-340-8474
Winter, 2007
By Claudine Larocque, Director, Principal Gifts, Alzheimer’s Association
Orange/Sullivan Regional Office
O: 845-342-2247 S: 845-794-3774
Westchester Regional Office
914-428-1919
Putnam Point of Service
845-878-9890
www.alz.org (national web site)
www.alzhudsonvalley.org (chapter web site)
info@alzhudsonvalley.org
1-800-872-0994
1-800-272-3900 (24-hour Helpline)
Research - New Alzheimer Gene Discovered
The researchers looked at 29 different
"variations" in small sections of the
SORL1 gene in a total of about 6,000
people from nine different distinct
ethnic or geographic groups. They
identified two regions on the gene, each
of which contains several of these
variations, that showed strong association
with increased risk of Alzheimer's in six
of the nine different populations.
Researchers believe the diseasepromoting variants of SORL1 act by
suppressing the gene's activity.According
to the researchers, SORL1 provides the
genetic blueprint for proteins that act
like "traffic cops," moving the amyloid
precursor protein (APP) to different
places in the brain cell. In one place in
On Monday, Nov. 13, 2006, the Alzheimer's
Association's Zenith Society hosted a special
Chapter News 2 gathering of philanthropic and scientific
leaders at the historic Waldorf-Astoria Hotel
Winter Programs: 4 in downtown Manhattan. Members and guests
heard from Association President and CEO
Memory Walk
6 Harry Johns and a panel of distinguished
Dear Stephanie 8 speakers on the state of Alzheimer research:
Dr. Michael Wolfe, Associate Professor,
Save These Dates! 8 Harvard Medical School and Brigham and
Women's Hospital; Dr. Michael Hutton,
Support Groups 9 Associate Professor, Mayo Clinic; Dr. Eric
Siemers, Medical Advisor, Lilly Research
Recent Special 10 Laborator ies; with special remarks by
Events
Princess Yasmin Aga Khan, Honorary Vice
Memorials & 11 Chair, National Board of Directors and
General Chair, Alzheimer's Association Rita
Tributes
Hayworth Galas.
Inside this issue:
Rockland Regional Office
845-639-6776
In a study published recently in Nature
Genetics, an international team of
researchers identified a gene called
SORL1 as strongly associated with risk
for the most common type of
Alzheimer's (late onset sporadic disease)
in populations of several ethnic groups.
Building a Zenith Society
the cell, APP is broken down into the
toxic beta amyloid that forms the
plaques found in Alzheimer's. In other
places in the cell it is broken down into
innocuous pieces. SORL1 proteins favor
the "good" pathway (innocuous
breakdown). When SORL1 produces
too little protein, this deficiency
channels more APP into the toxic
pathway, which generates more beta
amyloid.
This study contains the first evidence
that genes that control the movement of
the APP around brain cells can
contribute to Alzheimer's risk.
Next steps for this area of research
include further confirmation of these
findings by other scientists in different
populations, identification of the specific
variation or variations of the gene that
alter the processing of APP, and
evaluation of this gene as a target for
therapy and a possible aid to diagnosis.
It is unlikely that this discovery will
generate a genetic test that will be
available to physicians or consumers.
"Teasing out" the specific impact of one
gene is very difficult as Alzheimer's
involves multiple genes, not just a single
"yes or no" gene trigger. Additionally,
there are environmental/lifestyle risk
factors, and there may be other genes,
and also environmental elements, that
affect the expression of SORL1.
Nevertheless, this study is a significant
advancement to our knowledge about
the cause of Alzheimer's disease, and
SORL1 is the first gene strongly
associated with late onset Alzheimer's in
many years. Only one gene, called
APOE, has been firmly identified as a
risk factor for late- onset Alzheimer’s
disease.
The Alzheimer's Association is one of
the funders of this important research,
along with the National Institute on
Aging, the Canadian Institutes of Health
Research, and several others.
Research
12 ZENITH SOCIETY
~ Our Mission ~
For sixteen years the Zenith program has
represented the highest level of philanthropy
and has set the bar on leadership giving at the
Alzheimer's Association. As a group, Zenith
members have played a direct and historic role
in helping to create the leadership necessary
for the Alzheimer research field to advance.
Jerome H. Stone, founder and honorary
chairman of the Association, conceived of the
Zenith Program in 1990. He envisioned
bringing together individuals from around the
country who cared deeply about Alzheimer's
disease and who had the means to turn this
interest into action - by investing their
philanthropic support in strategic and
histor ically significant ways.
To eliminate
Alzheimer’s disease
through the
advancement of
research; to
provide and
enhance care and
support for all
affected; and to
reduce the risk of
dementia through
the promotion of With his leadership, Zenith members have
collectively given over $36 million to the
brain health.
Association, creating the Zenith research
grants program, which has grown to become
one of the most distinguished awards in the
scientific field, funding researchers from
around the world. Perhaps most importantly,
Zenith members have provided significant
resources and attention to innovative areas
of Alzheimer research at a time when
others were not.
Today, the Zenith members are a vibrant group
of philanthropic leaders who are interested
in the full mission of the Association:
research - care - and prevention. Members are
individuals and organizations that commit at
least $1 million to the Alzheimer's Association.
They are a diverse group of thoughtful,
talented, and committed individuals who
can more powerfully address the devastating
impacts of Alzheimer's locally, nationally
and globally through the Association and
this program.
THE ZANE/BENNETT ZENITH
SOCIETY CHALLENGE
The Zenith program has been issued an
exciting leadership challenge by new
members Sandy Zane and Ned Bennett.
This husband and wife team has pledged $2
million to the Zenith program if the
Alzheimer's Association can secure four
new or renewing Zenith memberships.
This is an outstanding opportunity for
supporters considering the program to
leverage their giving and help the
Association secure $6 million in new
monies towards our mission of a world
without Alzheimer's.
Don’t Miss the
Public Policy Forum:
March 18-20, 2007