Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
June 2020June 2020
Mat-SuMat-Su
Senior ServicesSenior Services
1132 S. Chugach St.1132 S. Chugach St.
Palmer AK 99645Palmer AK 99645
907-745-5454907-745-5454
CORE PURPOSECORE PURPOSE
Seniors Quality of LifeSeniors Quality of Life
CORE VALUESCORE VALUES
Respect • Trust • Independence • Security • Compassion • UnityRespect • Trust • Independence • Security • Compassion • Unity
Mat-SuMat-Su
Senior Senior
ChatterChatter
What’s Inside:
CURRENT MSSS BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Bob Shaw, President Dave Sapp, Vice President
Jennifer McCrary, Treasurer Betty Keegan, Secretary
Dee Brown • Gloria Brown • Linda Combs Jo Ehmann • Andy Hess • Sally Weiland
Election EditionBoard of Director Seats 4, 5 and 6
The inner workings of Mat-Su Senior Services goes on despite COVID-19. This year, we are expanding our Absentee and Mail-In-Ballot program, as well as including ballots (and envelopes) in this edition of the newsletter. There will also be an opportunity to vote in person at this months Membership Meeting on June 24th.
Board of Director terms are up for Dave Sapp, Andy Hess and Sally Weiland. MSSS would like to thank them for their years of service and dedication.
Starting on page 4 of this newsletter you can read short bios for the candidates that were put together based on their answers to questions in their board application.
To have your absentee vote counted, you must mail in or hand deliver it to the Palmer Senior Center by 5:00 p.m. on June 24th, 2020.
More details about the June 24th Membership Meeting will be shared as we get closer to that date.
Election Intro..1BoardMembers........1MSSS Services.........2President’sReport............3CEO Letter......3Candidates..4-8Voting Rules...9June Menu.....10Birthdays.......11Wall ofHonor....... 11-12
1132 South Chugach Street, Palmer, Alaska 99645Phone (907) 745-5454 Fax (907) 746-5173
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
CONGREGATE MEALS: (Suspended due to COVID-19)Served Monday through Friday 11:30am to 12:30 p.m. at the Palmer Senior Center Headquarters.
HOME-DELIVERED MEALS: Call-in by 9:00 a.m., Monday - Friday.
ADULT DAY SERVICES: (Suspended due to COVID-19)Monday thru Friday 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
CHORE & RESPITE SERVICES (Limited due to COVID-19)
NOTARY SERVICE: (Limited due to COVID-19)Traveling notary available.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES (Suspended due to COVID-19)
SENIOR HOUSING CHUGACH AND COLONY ESTATES: Call 761-5001 for information on Senior Housing.
FACILITY RENTAL AND CATERING: (Suspended due to COVID-19)Call 761-5006 for information and rates.
TRANSPORTATION: (Limited due to COVID-19)*For lunch at the Center or changes to home-delivered meals, please call before 9:00 a.m. that day.*For medical trips in Palmer or Wasilla call ahead for an appointment - One week notice preferred.
VOLUNTARY DONATIONS ARE ACCEPTED FOR ALL SERVICES
SUGGESTED DONATIONSCONGREGATE MEALS:........................................$5.00HOME-DELIVERED MEALS:................................$5.50TRANSPORTATION: Palmer (Round Trip)........................................$5.00 Wasilla (One Way)..........................................$8.00
MEMBER OF UNITED WAY OF MAT-SU, FOOD BANK OF ALASKA, COALITION OF MAT-SU
SENIOR CENTER, AGENET, AND ACOA
Funding for this Newsletter was provided in part by:DIVISION OF SENIORS AND DISABILITIES SERVICES.
MISSION STATEMENT
MAT-SU SENIOR SERVICES’ primary mission is to promote honor, dignity, security, and independence for older Alaskans and to assist them in maintaining meaningful, quality lives. Eligibility includes older Alaskans, individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease or Related Disorders and anyone of any age on the Home and Community Based Medicaid Waiver Program. Our Core Purpose is accomplished through programs including, but not limited to, the following:
• Congregate Meals* providing nutritious meals and socialization in a congregate setting;• Home Delivered Meals* providing nutritious meals at home;• Transportation* to/from medical appointments, the Center, Adult Day Services;• Family Caregivers Support* providing support for the family caregiver;•Adult Day Services* a day program for eligible individuals;•Chore* assist individuals in maintaining their home; • Respite* provides family caregiver a much needed break; • Information and Referral* helping seniors reach needed services;• Outreach* for those unable to get to the Center;• Colony Estates and Chugach Estates Senior Housing for individuals 55 years and older;• Activities* which include Card & Board Games, Bingo, AARP driving courses, Classes, Bible Studies, Veterans’ & First Responders Circle, etc.;• Health Promotion & Disease Prevention* Senior Strength, Strong Women, Zumba Gold, New You, Qigong, Yoga• Volunteer Opportunities* contact out administration office at 745-5454• Notary Services, including traveling a notary to your home.
*Programs provides services for eligible individuals in Palmer, Wasilla, Houston, Big Lake, Butte, Talkeetna, Trapper Creek, Willow, Sutton, Chickaloon, Knik, and all areas in between.
MAT-SU SENIOR SERVICES DEPARTMENT MANAGERSMAT-SU SENIOR SERVICES DEPARTMENT MANAGERSChief Executive Officer…….....................................................….……..Elaine Phillipps Chief Executive Officer…….....................................................….……..Elaine Phillipps
Chief Operating Officer……......................................................……….Beth Westland Chief Operating Officer……......................................................……….Beth Westland
Chief Financial Officer ……....................................................…….…Amanda WatsonChief Financial Officer ……....................................................…….…Amanda Watson
Human Resources ….................................................Beth Westland & Focus SolutionsHuman Resources ….................................................Beth Westland & Focus Solutions
Adult Day Svcs Mgr………….................................................…..……….Vivian SavageAdult Day Svcs Mgr………….................................................…..……….Vivian Savage
Chore & Respite Manager.……...................................................…….…..Nancy KovalChore & Respite Manager.……...................................................…….…..Nancy Koval
Facilities/Transportation Mgr…….........................................................……..Tim PettitFacilities/Transportation Mgr…….........................................................……..Tim Pettit
Kitchen Manager....................................................................................Phyllis MooreKitchen Manager....................................................................................Phyllis MoorePage 2
Bob Shaw’sBob Shaw’s
Board CornerBoard Corner
Elaine Phillipps’Elaine Phillipps’
CEO MessageCEO Message
The Governor stated, in his announcement on May 19, 2020, that Alaska is opening most businesses, though, Health Alerts still remain in effect, including Health Alert 7, which suspended services in congregate settings. As Health Alert 7 states: The Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) has suspended statewide, all long-term services and supports that occur in congregate settings, including senior centers, adult day services, and any site-based day habitation where individuals gather together. DHSS is working with federal partners to determine if services may be offered in a more flexible manner.
As you can see in this issue, we are preparing for our Mat-Su Senior Services Annual Membership Meeting and the election of three new Directors to join the MSSS Board of Directors. Please keep checking the Mat-Su Senior Services Facebook page (click on “Like” the page and you will receive regular updates) or our website (www.matsuseniors.com) often for updates on the status.
I, for one, can’t wait for that day when we can meet again over a cup of coffee or a hot lunch. Please keep your spirits up, stay healthy, and safe.
We are getting through this together!
March 17th – A day that will remain in my mind for years ahead. There was no way to have known when I woke that day how drastically our lives would change within 24 hours. It felt much like a gigantic wrench being thrown into the gears of our daily life. Congregate meals ended with little warning; ADS, Chore, and Respite services were suspended, and transportation was reduced to serve only “medically necessary” rides.
We regrouped and found our footing. We also found new ways to support Seniors.
Now, we look ahead.
We are beginning to evaluate how and when to reopen congregate meals, potentially sometime this month; however, it will look VERY different than before. Seating will be limited and subject to RSVP’s. We will offer two seating’s (11:00am and 12:00pm or 11:30am and 12:30pm) and operate more like a restaurant - bringing food to seniors at their table. We will not be restarting congregate transportation and will encourage seniors to remain on HDM program if unable to transport themselves to the center. We will choose a formal start date and evaluate potential adjustments based on state and local COVID-19 updates.
Page 3
Candidate Name: Kenneth SmithOccupation: RetiredYears in Alaska: 43Membership Status: Active
Catherine Hall is an involved member of the MSSS family. She has served as a Member, Volunteer, Board Member and as Board President. She also enjoys putting together her “Deetours” where she takes
fellow Seniors to community events.
Catherine says she would like to be on the board so she can “continue to serve our center and community.” If elected, she says she would be most interested in Volunteers and Events.
To the Board, she would bring her experience. “I believe I have learned leadership skills, work well with other people - outgoing personality and fair.” Shew also says she can “make important decisions when needed.”
Meet the
CandidatesCandidate Name: Catherine HallOccupation: RetiredYears in Alaska: 6Membership Status: Active
Kenneth Smith has been a part of the MSSS family since 1986. He has served as a Member, Volunteer and an Employee. He says that experience gives him “first hand knowledge of affairs in MSSS.” He says
he “could mentor newcomers to MSSS and set an example to newbies.”
Kenneth is a lifetime member of Post 35 American Legion and a 50 year member of the Masons. He has also served as the President of two German American Clubs.
If elected to the Board, he says he would be most interested in Membership, Volunteers, and Resource Development.
To the Board, he can bring “A view of 87 years of life -- good and bad.”
Page 4
Ted Cessop has been and active and involved Member of Mat-Su Senior Services for the last 5 years and now feels it the right time to take on a leadership role.
Ted says he “ran two clubs in Minnesota” and “worked with people for my whole life.
If elected to the Board, he says he would be most interested in Membership, Resource Development, and Facility Planning /Construction.
To the Board, he would bring “years of experience volunteering and leadership.”
Candidate Name: Ted CessopOccupation: RetiredYears in Alaska: 20Membership Status: Active
Lisa Smayda is an involved and active member of Mat-Su Senior Services and the Valley Community. Before retiring, she worked as a registered nurse starting in 1976 with experience providing services
to the elderly in their homes and hospitals.
Lisa is also a board member for the Mat-Su Health Foundation, Member of the Valley Interfaith Action -Social Justice Issues and a Volunteer for the Palmer Veterans & Pioneer Home.
If elected to the board, she says she would be most interested in Governance, Membership and Resource Development.
Lisa says she would bring years of “volunteer service to the elderly, public health experience, care coordination & disability experience.”
Candidate Name: Lisa SmaydaOccupation: RetiredYears in Alaska: 42Membership Status: Active
Meet the
Candidates
Page 5
Meet the
Candidates
Christine Olsen brings new and excited energy to Mat-Su Senior Services and the Palmer Senior Center.She became a member at the beginning of March and
jumped in with both feet.
In her time at MSSS she has already found a way to give back by caring for the plants and flowers in and around the Center.
If elected to the board, she would be most excited to help with keeping the Center nice and planning events to bring members together.
Before retiring, Christine worked as a caregiver for WWII Veterans. She is also an active member of the Lion’s Club.
Candidate Name: Christine OlsenOccupation: RetiredYears in Alaska: 7Membership Status: Active
Linda Derflinger has a long history with Mat-Su Senior Services starting back in 2000 when she worked as a nurse’s aid at Adult Day Services and then in the kitchen at the Palmer Senior Center.
Linda is also a volunteers at Bishop’s Attic and at the Palmer Food Bank. She says “I love to help the needy and I try to be a friend to the young, the young and children.”
If elected to the board, Linda says she would be most interested in Membership, Events, and Facility Planning and Construction.
She says “I am happy to be able to be a part of any mission that improves the health and well-being in our elderly and serve them in all areas of my expertise.
Candidate Name: Linda DerflingerOccupation: RetiredYears in Alaska: 68Membership Status: Active
Page 6
Meet the
Candidates
Eileen Johnson-Grape is and active member of Mat-Su Senior Services and participates in a number of the regular events offered at the Palmer Senior Center. That said, she wants to join the board so she can be even more involved with the community.
Aside from MSSS, Eileen is active with the 49th State Street Rodders where she serves as a Board Member and Secretary.
If elected to the board, she would be most interested in Events and Membership issues.
She says “I am good at organization and love paperwork.”
Candidate Name: Eileen Johnson-GrapeOccupation: RetiredYears in Alaska: 40Membership Status: Active
Not PicturedDue to Candidates
Request
Michael McGinty is an active and life long member of Mat-Su Senior Services who can often be found volunteering with Commodities.
He says he “would like to serve Mat-Su Senior Services in Palmer to help Seniors.”
Before retiring, Micheal worked for the Dept. of Corrections and was a member of the Alaska Police Officers Association, even serving as President from 1995-1998.
If elected to the board, Micheal would be most interested in Membership, Volunteers and Events.
Candidate Name: Michael McGintyOccupation: RetiredYears in Alaska: 25Membership Status: Active
Page 7
Meet the
Candidates
Mary Campbell is an active and involved member of Mat-Su Senior Services.She says “I would love to help the Mat-Su Seniors and be involved in the decisions that are made to
better the center.”
For MSSS, Mary Volunteers regularly with Commodities but she is also volunteers for Youth Camps (12 years) and twice a year goes on Mission trips (8 years).
Mary also speaks two languages (English and Spanish) and has a degree in Business Administration.
If elected to the board, Mary would be most interested in Events and Volunteers.
Candidate Name: Mary Ellen CampbellOccupation: RetiredYears in Alaska: 2Membership Status: Active
Sponsor the Mat-Su Senior Services Newsletter and Have Your Company
Logo Displayed Monthly
For more information on how you
can sponsor “The Chatter” call
(907) 761-8006 or email
Page 8
Included with this newsletter please find the Palmer Senior Citizens Center, Inc d.b.a., Mat-Su Senior Services (MSSS) 2020 Absentee Ballot.
Absentee Ballot Rules:
• Absentee Ballots shall be the same as those cast in General Election.
• All Absentee Ballots must be hand delivered, or postmarked, by 5:00 p.m. on June 24th, 2020.
• Dues must have been paid by May 15, 2020 in order to be eligible to vote!
• Be sure to return your ballot with your name clearly written on the outside of the envelope.
• The return envelopes are not prepaid, so you will need to supply the stamp.
If you have any questions, please contact Mat-Su Senior Services at (907) 745-5454.
Sincerely,
The MSSS Board of Directors
Now, that you met the candidates,
What’s Next?
Page 9
***Menu is Subject to Change******Menu is Subject to Change***
* ON FISH AND LIVER DAYS THERE WILL BE AN ALTERNATE CHOICE.* ON FISH AND LIVER DAYS THERE WILL BE AN ALTERNATE CHOICE.
* MILK AND VARIOUS JUICES SERVED DAILY* MILK AND VARIOUS JUICES SERVED DAILY
June June MenuMenu
5Cat Fish w/ RiceBroccoli
BreadDessert
8Ham & YamsMixed Veggies
BreadDessert
9Chicken NuggetsTater TotsLima Beans & Corn
BreadDessert
10Pork CutletsMashed Potatoes & GravySan Francisco Veg.BreadDessert
11Broccoli stuffed potatoCarrots
Bread Dessert
12Fish PattyFrench friesCapri Veggies
BreadDessert
15Meat loafMashed Potatoes& GravyKey Largo VeggiesBreadDessert
16Turkey StewBrussels Sprouts
BreadDessert
17Chicken Fajitasw/ RiceCornShells
Dessert
18ChiliCauliflower
BreadDessert
19Crab stuffedPollock w/ RiceMediterranean VeggiesBreadDessert
22Hot Turkey & StuffingCarrots
BreadDessert
23Stuffed Peppersw/ Rice
Bread Dessert
24 *Membership* Corned Beef& CabbageCarrots
BreadDessert
25Beans & HamPeas & Carrots
BreadDessert
26Pollock PattieScalloped PotatoesPrince William Veg.
BreadDessert
29
HamburgerPotato ChipsBaked Beans
BreadDessert
30BBQ HamFrench FriesPeas
BreadDessert
Congregate Meals Congregate Meals Will Resume When Will Resume When it is Deemed Safeit is Deemed Safe
2Pork RibsRoasted Potatoes
BreadDessert
1Chicken Fried Steak w /Mashed Potatoes & Gravy Green beansBreadDessert
3Sweet & Sour Meat Balls with RiceVeggies
BreadDessert
4Hot Dog & SauerkrautCauliflower
BreadDessert
Page 10
Leave a lasting legacy at Mat-Su Senior Services by being part of our
Wall of Honor.You can use your plaque to display your name, a loved ones name, or even your business. Let everyone who enters the Palmer Senior Center see you proudly support MSSS.
Mat-Su Senior Services would like to wish a Happy Birthday to Betty J Brickel, Carol Sizemore, Catherine Hall, Don Corey, Eileen Grape, Evelyn Mielke, Geoffrey Tamplin Gerry Chambers, Harold & Agnes Wilson Sr., Helen Davis, Jennifer McCrary, Linda Combs, Marge Wheeler, Marilyn Kvarford, Mary Patania, Pansy Herring, Patricia Gray, Phyllis Bottari, Phyllis Moore, Rita M Davila, Robert Hammaker, Robert Woolsey, Sally Weiland, Sherron Farrar, Steven Bergeron and Susan Mohr!
Page 11
Leave a lasting legacy at Mat-Su Senior Services by being part of our
Wall of Honor.You can use your plaque to display your name, a loved ones name, or even your business. Let everyone who enters the Palmer Senior Center see you proudly support MSSS.
NON-PROFIT ORG
U.S. POSTAGE PAID
PALMER, ALASKA 99645
PERMIT #99
MAT-SU SENIOR SERVICES
1132 S Chugach Street
Palmer, AK 99645
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
