BY PROGRESSIVE CENTER SUMMER 2020 orward VOLUME 70 FQUARTERLY NEWSLETTER | SERVING OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1996.
DISABILITIES IN THIS ISSUE PG 3 The Age of Ageism DO NOT PG 5 Consumer Scams DISCRIMINATE PG 8 Recreation Corner PG 11 Finding Silver Linings PG 12 PCIL’s New President A personal reflection on the topic of discrimination in PG 13 Your Right to Vote the United States from the perspective of a person living PG 14 30th ADA Anniversary with disabilities by Scott Elliott, Executive Director of PG 15 Provide Possibilities the Progressive Center for Independent Living. PG 16 Gateway Program PG 17 Back at Work do not have the experience or knowledge to write PG 18 Mercer County Library I about strong or specific view points on prejudice, PG 19 Rutgers Virtual Services racism, or discrimination as a whole in our society. I PG 20 Power of Attorney do have extensive experience living with a significant Explained disability and seeing so many individuals with disabilities dealing first hand with discrimination because we are different. By no means am I comparing This publication is brought to you what many of us with a disability deal with to racism, by staff of Progressive Center for sexism, ageism or other social injustices. What I will Independent Living and Mercer County ADRC FORWARD SUMMER 2020 “I think we all just want equal treatment and VOL 70 should treat people how we wish to be treated.” tell you is that disability is the largest diversity population on earth and that it ince being in the human services field, affects the entire human race; all ethnicities, Sand even before, I have advocated and ages, and genders. fought for civil rights, integration, inclusion and promotion of *diversity in our society, consider myself very lucky however communities, workplace, social gatherings I to have grown up and learned from and everyday activities. my parents and close friends the true nature of humanity and its meaning; eople first language, treatment, and compassionate, sympathetic, or generous Prespect is all people with disabilities and behavior or disposition: the quality or state their families ask and hope for in this world. of being humane. My childhood was a The same must apply to “all” people who great foundation to be better prepared to are “all different”. understand the difference between good and bad and not focus on the difference in *Diversity; the condition of having or being human beings. I think we “all” just want composed of differing elements. equal treatment and should treat people how ■ we wish to be treated. Scott Elliott THE AGING OF AGEISM IT’S GETTING OLD
PHOTO FROM CUMANAGEMENT.COM ON JAN 1, 2020
This article was authored by Eileen Doremus – Excecutive Director Mercer County ADRC
e are experiencing what some have one that can be revisited edition after Wcalled parallel pandemics- that of edition of FORWARD. COVID -19 and that of racial inequality. Having been blessed to be able to spend And yet another –ism has resurfaced that 37 years enjoying a social worker’s career I am eager to explore- that of ageism. in aging, it was 15 years into it that I Headlines scream that those residing in was reminded that there exists a strong nursing homes were some of the hardest perceived stigma associated with the hit with the onset, spread and eventual topic of aging. Standing before a class numbers of deaths. Why weren’t they full of continuing education students as a protected? Why did we allow those who facilitator/teacher for the Rutgers School should be most revered have to succumb to of Social Work, I presented an exercise the ravages of the coronavirus as they did? that began the course entitled Resources Initially we were told the older population for Older Adults. I pre-wrote the word was most susceptible to the virus, it across the top of the flip chart – O L D. was due to the underlying conditions After introductions, I asked students to call experienced by them to include respiratory out what immediately comes to mind when ailments, heart problems, and more. they hear the word old. We have since learned, sadly, younger Immediately the words such as frail, coronavirus patients are also susceptible forgetful, irritable, cranky, entitled, – far more than additionally thought. But dependent, impatient were spoken. It that is not the purpose of this article. I’d wasn’t until at least twenty-some words like to begin a discussion about ageism… were shared that I finally heard the
PG 3 THE AGING OF AGEISM - IT’S GETTING OLD words wise, experienced, productive – new ways of thinking and ultimately act the negative words far outnumbered the and react more compassionately. Instead empowering words. I know my work was of using the word wanderer to describe cut out for me that day. It also reminded a behavior, by replacing it with ‘being me that this is also a societal view of what curious’ or ‘shopping’ or perhaps, ‘ looking it is to age and grow older. for something to eat’ will cause us to From that experience on, I am dedicated to respond differently with far more success in individually keep taking steps to eradicate allowing positive communication. the stigmas associated with the aging process. Much of what we can control So how we say what we say can be is how we communicate about aging; powerful in the messaging as it invites specifically the language we use. Why a response that can be more effective in do we always refer to ‘having a senior communicating about the process of aging. moment’ when we forget something, or This writing is just a start. Readers, help cannot find the right word? It happens to me develop this topic; help me learn along us all. Why are there ‘anti-aging creams’? with you the how ageism impacts any Perhaps staying hydrated and staying aspect of your life. A review of ageism in protected from the sun should be a life- health care, in the media, in housing, in the long practice. Is a ‘senior center’ the workplace will follow. An exploration of best name for a center that allows for life- projects that are helping to erase ageism long learning, productive and purposeful will also be shared. Send your thoughts/ activities? How about activity center, or ideas to [email protected] or directly center for active living, community center to me at [email protected] and café (which suggests food/beverage availability), or maybe Aged to Perfection ■Eileen Doremus Center? Having spent 10 years in the employ of the Alzheimer’s Association one of the books that was my constant companion was entitled Rethinking Alzheimer’s Disease (1996) by Sam Fazio, MA. In it he explores the impacts of words on thoughts on our actions and reactions. The essence of the use of empowering terminology encourages people to learn, and help create
PG 4 PROTECTING YOURSELF FROM CONSUMER
PHOTO FROM CUMANAGEMENT.COM ON JAN 1, 2020 SCAMS This article was authored by Ryann M. Siclari, Esquire, and Daniel I. Rubin, Esquire, both senior staff attorneys and Marissa Fisher, a paralegal at Central Jersey Legal Services.
nfortunately even during challenging purporting to be from the IRS is a scam. times such as the one we are currently U Donations facing due to the pandemic caused by Consumers should try to do some research COVID-19, scammers are still active. before donating to a charity. A simple We’ve compiled this list as a reference for online search can yield information about consumers to avoid falling victim to scams. prior complaints or scams associated with If you believe that you have already been that charity. Be wary of anyone who scammed, we have also provided resources specifies how your donation should be and information to report those scams made, (e.g., by gift card or wire transfer), Stimulus Checks as this is a red flag that the “charity” is The CARES Act provides for the not legitimate. The best way to protect automatic release of stimulus funds to yourself is making your donation via check eligible individuals. You won’t need to or credit card. release any personal information to receive If you believe that you have already your money, so if you receive a call telling made a donation to a scam “charity”, you to “sign up” for your relief check, report the donation to the Federal Trade hang up immediately. Keep in mind that Commission (www.ftc.gov) and the NJ this request may also come via e-mail. Office of the Attorney General’s Division The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will of Consumer Affairs Charities Registration never call you and ask for your personal or Section (https://www.njconsumeraffairs. banking information in order to send your gov/charities/Pages/default.aspx). The stimulus payment. Any call you receive PG 5 PROTECTING YOURSELF FROM CONSUMER SCAMS WRITTEN BY CENTRAL JERSEY LEGAL SERVICES
Charities Registration Section website attempts to steal your personal or financial provides a directory of compliant, non- information, or worse, you could receive compliant, exempt, retired, revoked, and dangerous or unapproved products which denied charities in New Jersey. could result in severe health problems or Cures, Home Testing & Vaccination Kits even death. In the midst of the pandemic, everyone is If you have already purchased any item rightfully concerned about their health and that claims to treat or prevent COVID-19, access to health insurance. Sadly, scammers visit the FTC website to file a complaint at are attempting to prey on these fears in www.ftc.gov. order to steal your personal and financial Delivery Services information. Local government agencies New Jersey’s stay-at-home order and have reported complaints from seniors who social distancing requirements have made received phone calls from persons claiming it difficult to obtain daily necessities, to be affiliated with Medicare or Medicaid particularly for seniors. The Consumer asking to verify their Social Security Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has number, date of birth, and other personal received complaints of scammers who information so that they can be tested for have offered to help seniors run errands the coronavirus. They may even ask for to pick up medication or groceries. These credit card or bank information to pay for scammers take payment up front and then the test. Currently, coronavirus testing in never return with the items they were New Jersey is limited to individuals who supposed to purchase. have symptoms of the virus and have received a referral from their primary care If you need help getting food, medicine, physician to go to a testing site. You should or other necessities, make sure to use never provide your Social Security number a reliable delivery service established or any personal or financial information in through the store that you are purchasing response to an unsolicited phone call. from. Keep in mind that legitimate delivery services are overwhelmed with requests As of the date of this writing, there are right now, so it is best to order as far in no known products available to treat or advance as possible. prevent COVID-19. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Food & Drug The CFPB has also received complaints Administration (FDA) have jointly of online sellers falsely claiming to have contacted companies who have marketed hard-to-find items in stock (toilet paper, products falsely stating that they can treat hand sanitizer, etc.). Seniors have placed or prevent COVID-19, advising them that orders for these items and paid the seller, they must immediately cease making these but delivery is never made. There currently false claims. These advertisements may be are widespread shortages of many products, PG 6 WRITTEN BY CENTRAL JERSEY LEGAL SERVICES
and it will take some time before supplies would not be posted on a hacked social are restocked. If Amazon and Wal-Mart media site. Contact other family members are out of certain items, it is extremely to find out where the grandchild or loved unlikely that an online retailer that you one is currently. NEVER send cash, gift have not previously heard of has them. cards, or wire transfer funds. Social Security Scams Central Jersey Legal Services Scammers are using sophisticated CJLS’ attorneys and paralegals assist technology to make the number from individuals facing problems with Medicaid which they are calling appear to be from eligibility, government entitlements the Social Security Administration. It is such as food stamps and unemployment important to know that the SSA will never benefits, housing issues such as eviction, call you to threaten your benefits or tell family issues including divorce and child you to wire money, send cash, or purchase support, and consumer debt issues, among gift cards. many others. All people, regardless of If you have already verified your Social their financial situation, deserve a fair shot Security number or shared personal at justice – and that requires legal help. information with a scammer, you can visit It’s not justice when a senior or disabled https://www.identitytheft.gov/SSA to find person is denied health care services out the steps you can take to protect your or a family loses their home simply identity. because they couldn’t afford the legal help they needed. Central Jersey Legal Grandparent Scams: Services provides access to legal help and The fright caused by scammers posing as information for clients in life-changing a loved grandchild has caused many to fall legal situations who could not otherwise victim to this scam. Typically they’ll say afford an attorney. they’re stuck in a situation – at this time possibly hospitalized with COVID-19 or If you need legal help, please contact our arrested for violating a stay-at-home order Mercer County office at 609-695-6249 to – and need funds immediately so that they be screened for eligibility. can be treated or released. The purpose of this article is to present a If you receive a call like this, resist the general overview of common consumer urge to immediately do what the caller has scams. It is not intended to be used as asked. Instead, first, and most importantly, legal advice. Each client’s case is unique try to verify the claim by asking the and merits individual substantive and scammer to answer personal questions that procedural legal advice from an attorney. only that individual might know, and that ■ R. Siclari, D. Rubin, and M. Fisher PG 7 PCIL has taken to ZOOM for their Community Connections Program every Thursday afternoon and it has been very successful at keeping the PCIL community connected.
RECREATION CORNER ■ Reed Thomas aybe I’m showing my age here, but connections and re-connections I see Mthe phrase “what a long, strange people making on my computer’s screen, trip it’s been” seems to resonate with the about big smiles in a time when they experiences of this year more than it has seem hard to muster, and about continuing any other time in my 40-plus years on the Community Connections Recreation this planet. From the suddenness of the Program’s over-arching goals under onset, to the major disruptions in all of restrictive circumstances. our daily routines, COVID-19 has forced us all to adapt and overcome a series of o, I think it goes without saying that our challenges that few of us ever saw coming. Smodel of larger community gatherings It is in that spirt, one of perseverance and has been out-of-the-question for months. determination, which I find myself writing The goals behind that model have not been this article for you all. abandoned, in fact we have held them closer than ever, as we morphed to meeting in a ormally I’d be writing about the virtual environment. It is important to us Narrival of warm weather, about the that social connections can be forged and great places in our community that allow strengthened among the participants in our you to enjoy the summer, and about the program. So much care is taken through great future activities we’ll hold to continue planning and using the features of the Zoom to explore the outdoor spaces and unique meeting software to create an environment opportunities summer provides. This year where people feel connected. This includes I’m sadden by the fact I can’t do that, building in time specifically for socializing however, I can write about the amount of like introducing oneself, sharing how people we’ve been able to bring together you’ve been experiencing the current through alternative means, about the social events, and talking about techniques for
PG 8 FORWARD “It is important to us that social connections can be SUMMER 2020 forged and strengthened among the participants in VOL 70 PG 9 our program...” coping during stressful times. This translates carefully choose the activities, the presenters, to an environment of open communication and the accompanying information shared. where participants are freely sharing with one We have sought out teachers of skills such as another. Couple that with the ability to select art and music, things which a participant can which microphones are active, and spotlight learn, then use independently. We have also the person speaking, and it begins to feel like tried to identify and bring on organizations an honest exchange between people hanging that have offerings which can be accessed out for an enjoyable shared experience, each now, to fill up the toolbox of enjoyable with a complimentary role within the larger activities a person can access. Groups like whole. After a number of sessions we’ve Special Kind of Improvisational Theater seen people who were strangers at first (SKIT), One Yoga Center, A-Plus Tutoring recognize each other, ask about topics shared and Learning Center, and others have in previous activities, and start to know the provided not just fun experiences for one hour nuances of each other’s personalities. Social of the week, but also piqued the interest of networks growing and expanding is a big part multiple participants who are now exploring of what our program is all about. how they can get involved in a deeper way, outside of our program. This exposure to resources and exploration of one’s personal interests in a way that is further reaching than just a one-off experience with our program, is one of the ways we measure our success, and promote independence.
ith our virtual activities happening Wweekly, there have been too many to list them all the way I normally would. I know that I miss seeing everyone in person, Participant Tina is showing off her and the same has been expressed numerous creation to the group. times by many other people. I am proud to report that we’ve been able to adapt to a utside of socialization, learning skills rapidly changing world, to offer enriching, Ofor independence and learning about engaging, and entertaining programming community resources are the other pillars through very different means than is typical, of the Community Connections Recreation to continue to further the values of the Program. For these to continue we need to independent living philosophy, and to offer RECREATION CORNER CONTINUED WRITTEN BY CENTRAL JERSEY LEGAL SERVICES
Looking back on our summer of zooms. Community Connections has taken on some fun projects virtually from learning how to draw to musical jams and yoga to improv and more! We cannot wait to show you what the fall has in store for you - virtually!
people a way to connect when that has become so much more difficult than it was just a few months ago. JOIN OUR UPCOMING VIRTUAL EVENTS his article is not a lament, nor does it Tlook back on a time that has past. Our If you’d like to find out more recreation program activities will continue please contact us by email at: in the Zoom virtual meeting format for the [email protected] foreseeable future, every Friday afternoon. We’re planning activities such as gardening, nutrition, yoga & meditation, jewelry making, Or follow us on Facebook and many more. Despite its differences and www.fb.me/ difficulties, we are committed to staying the progressivecenternj course, until such a time when we can enjoy each other’s company face to face. ■ Reed Thomas PG 10 WRITTEN BY CENTRAL JERSEY LEGAL SERVICES Finding the
Silver Lining■ Tina Provost
inding the silver lining in being Each park is unique and has its own at home for the past four months personality. All of them have level Fwas sometimes difficult. My usual surfaces for easy walking. In Marquand routine is disrupted. My parents came Park and Heritage Park most of the up with some really interesting things trees and shrubs are marked for your to do, that I love. I YouTube travel all enjoyment. I love learning the names over the world, watch Broadway Shows, of the trees. In Marquand Park, there is paint rocks, join the Special Olympics a tree with an arm for you to sit on and virtually, Zoom with Reed on Fridays, allows you to linger awhile. In Heritage journal, read, play with our dog, Buttons, Park I found a black walnut tree. My dad and walk, walk, walk. We walk a lot. We likes to bake, so maybe in the Fall we found lots of interesting, beautiful places can go collect some black walnuts. At to walk in Mercer County where you can Colonial Lake Park you might see turtles socially distance and be safe. sunning themselves, or a heron looking for fish. Crystal Lake is a grass path We love being outside. Parks are wide carved around corn fields. open spaces. It’s calming and provides me with a sense of well being, too. I love Before Covid19, I didn’t even know these to commune with nature and hear the parks were so close to my home. Maybe birds sing. Personally, I feel at ease. It’s some of you will visit these parks, and a good way to lower stress levels during who knows, maybe I’ll see you there! difficult times, like now. Going to the park helps me deal with stuff.
The parks we found and love to walk are: Heritage Park, Allentown, NJ Colonial Lake Park, Lawrence, NJ Crystal Lake, Burlington, NJ Marquand Park, Princeton, NJ PG 11 FORWARD SUMMER 2020 PG 12 VOL 70
PCIL ELECTS NEW PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD
MEET STEVE
Hello, My name is Steve Gruzlovic and I am the newly elected President of the Board for the Progressive Center for Independent Living. I have been a board member and volunteer advocate, as well as a consumer at PCIL for a number of years now. I have a Political Science Degree from Edinboro University and I currently serve as the Transportation ■ Steve Gruzlovic, Chair for the New Jersey Statewide Independent newly elected Living Council, as well as a number of other boards President of the and organizations throughout the state that advocate Board at the for the rights of individuals living with disabilities. I Progressive Center am excited to bring my experience and passion for for Independent the community to my new role, and I hope to bring Living. a fresh perspective to the PCIL board, while still maintaining a family organizational culture. In my spare time I enjoy watching sports, playing Scrabble, and spending time with friends and family. I look forward to continuing to help individuals and families, and I’m committed to helping PCIL continue to grow and expand both the scope and quality of services to our community. ■ Steve Gruzlovic FORWARD by Progressive Center: One place, many services.
JENNIFERvoting is your IS right, regardless of race, religion, disability, or any other factor. If you’re unsure, I would point you to multiple VOTING pieces of American civil rights legislation that support this fact. The ADA, VRA, VAEHA, NVRA, & HAVA acts, going as far back as 1965, support at the federal level a person’s IS YOUR right to vote, and attempt to remove any barriers both physical and social that may stand in your way. RIGHT! There are any number of ways to educate yourself on the voting process and options. ■ Reed Thomas The state of NJ has a division of elections “Vote as if your life depended on it… with an online voter information portal: www. because it does”. – Justin Dart state.nj.us/state/elections The US government has a website with This quote from the man that is considered information about the process and important to be the father of the Americans with dates & events which lead up to Election Disabilities Act feels more poignant today Day: www.usa.gov/election then in any other time I can remember. The direction our country goes in, how we handle Websites like www.vote411.org and www. social justice issues, issues of public health, ballotpedia.org offer non-biased information how public funding is spent, how we interact about candidates, policies, and statistics with the greater world around us, and many relating to the election. And organizations more factors of great importance, literally fall like The American Association of People with to one thing… your vote. Disabilities (www.aapd.com) have sources online that specifically talk about candidate’s I am not writing this to tell you which options policies that affect the disability community. are right, how you should think, how you should feel, or how you should vote. You Disability Rights NJ offers a program of need to make those decisions yourself, based protection and advocacy for voters with on the best information you can gather. I am disabilities which can assist with registering writing to underscore the weight your vote and address any issues of discrimination carries, and to encourage you to take in as or accessibility. (https://www.drnj.org/ much information, from as many non-biased pavaprogram.htm). sources as you can, digest it, consider what it The right to vote comes with a responsibility means to you and your family, and then make to decide what future you feel is right for you. the decision you feel is right. If you experience problems, or need further I would hope that by the year 2020 anyone assistance, please feel free to contact PCIL. of age who is reading this understands that PG 13 TH ANNIVERSARY OF THEADA u3ly 26th, 20200 marks the 30th but these activities are not the best reflection anniversary of the signing of the of what this law has really done for the Americans with Disabilities Act disability community. That can be found (ADA). The ADA is a civil rights law in the first-hand accounts of those whose Jthat prohibits discrimination against individuals rights have been protected, who have found with disabilities in all areas of public life, acceptance, employment, education, and shed including jobs, schools, transportation, and all the mantle of exclusion and excommunication public and private places that are open to the thanks to the ADA. general public. The purpose of the law is to make sure that people with disabilities have To see this ground-floor view of this the same rights and opportunities as everyone community the ADA National Network began else. The ADA gives civil rights protections its #ThanksToTheADA Campaign, asking to individuals with disabilities similar to those everyone to share via social media a moment provided to individuals on the basis of race, in their lives when they were thankful for color, sex, national origin, age, and religion. It the ADA. The responses were immense, guarantees equal opportunity for individuals tweets, Facebook posts, pictures, videos with disabilities in public accommodations, and much more were created and linked employment, transportation, state and local by the hashtag. Statements like “The ADA government services, and telecommunications. has impacted my life by allowing me to go The ADA is divided into five titles (or sections) anywhere in the community or even travel that relate to different areas of public life. the US”, and “Thanks to the ADA requesting accommodations at work can be simple and Many of you reading this may already be empower you to be your most successful familiar with the details of this landmark piece in the workplace”, are only a tiny fraction of legislation. If you’re not, and would like of the responses. If you’d like to add your to know more please visit the ADA National testimony to those of people from all across Network for the history, titles, amendments, and our nation simply post and use the hashtag all things ADA at www.adata.org #ThankstoTheADA.
Celebrations are happening all over the country For more information on this campaign and over this 3-decade landmark. NJ’s Centers for further details about how to participate visit: Independent Living held a different celebratory www.adata.org/thanks-to-the-ada-campaign activity each day in the month of July this year, PG 14 FORWARD SUMMER 2020 VOL 70 PG 15 Provider Possibilities
ver the course of the past the Division of Developmental few months, your day to Disabilities has begun approving Oday activities may have some “remote” services. Remote changed a little. Here at Progressive meaning individuals can access Center for Independent Living, service via “FaceTime” applications. we are always looking for new Examples of other “Goods and and innovative ways to get our Service” providers are horseback community involved and engaged riding lessons, music lessons, game in activities. Did you know that design lessons and tutoring services. if you are a company that teaches individuals, or promotes community inclusion, there is potential for individuals with disabilities to use their Supports Program or Community Care Program budget for your services?
s a Support Coordinator for Division of Developmental ADisability services, I am f you are a company that is always striving to speak with able to provide services such as companies about registering their Ithese, feel free to contact me, business with the division. Right Sara Olexsak, at the Progressive now it is more important than Center for Independent Living and ever to find new services, as lots I can help you through the steps of services are on hold due to of becoming an approved provider COVID-19 community precautions. with the Division of Developmental Prior to COVID-19 pandemic, Disabilities. There are individuals examples of approved services out there looking for new ways in community included gym of engaging in their hobbies and memberships, swimming lessons and activities! Please don’t hesitate to sewing lessons. Transportation/Taxi reach out! Company authorizations continue ■ be approved at this time. This Sara Olexsak year due to COVID-19 pandemic, FORWARD SUMMER 2020 PG 16 VOL 70
HUNTERDON CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL’S GATEWAY TO SUCCESS PROGRAM UPDATE
s the Summer sun gets brighter, places such as a dog grooming Athe Hunterdon students of business, a youth day camp, and PCIL’s Gateways to Success a local emergency squad… and program also continue to shine! they are still going strong! Along The participants spent the last few with all of the hard work they are months of their school year adjusting performing, the students are also not only to doing all of their continuing to participate in monthly schoolwork from home, but also “peer group sessions”, where we meeting with me once a week using review additional topics that will a virtual app. Together, we covered help them meet their employment topics such as where and how to and educational goals for the future. apply for jobs, how to conduct I am beyond proud of each of them oneself during a job interview, for their dedication to the Gateways and how to keep a job once hired. program and wanting to persevere! Summertime has brought them opportunity to use what they learned ■ Laura Tapp to get some work experience! So far, they have been able to build- up their resumes by working at FORWARD by Progressive Center: One place, many services.
BACK AT WORK
n July 3, 2020, I celebrated my six-year Oanniversary working at Costco. I went back to work on June 1st after deciding to stay home at the end of March to avoid being exposed to COVID-19.
My co-workers showed how happy they were to see me. That welcoming feeling eased my return to work a lot. Before starting work each day, I had to answer a few questions about any symptoms of or exposure to others with COVID-19. I wear a face shield over a face mask and a pair of work gloves when working. I also wash my hands as often as I can. I bring and drink plenty of water from home. My co-workers often give me cold bottles of water while working too. I work with cashiers at check-out lanes. Every Costco employee wears a badge on their name tags which says: “Costco Cares. We are following social distancing. Please stay 6 feet away.”
The first thing I do when I get home is taking a shower. Since my return to work, my supervisor has scheduled me to start my shifts half an hour earlier so that I work more during slower periods of the day. So far, I have been lucky to stay healthy. I am glad that I can stay busy while doing something helpful to others.
Monica Koppstein ■ Monica Koppstein reporting to work.
PG 17 MERCER COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM RESPONDS ■ Mercer County Library Systems lthough the Mercer County Library ASystem’s branches are presently closed to For a wide variety of information for school the public, with a planned limited reopening work, personal research, or just curiosity, take in August, we continue to serve our patrons, advantage of the library’s always-available keeping them engaged through this difficult databases by visiting our Virtual Branch time, with expanded free, online content and page of the library’s website, www.mcl.org/ services, as well as a no contact pick-up of reference/databases and our blog, which can library materials service. be found on the main page of the library’s website. Reference questions are being Visit the MCLS website at www.mcl.org for answered remotely via our eReference service, access to online magazines, eBooks, television Ask a Librarian, https://mcl.org/ask-librarian, shows and movies, comic books, audiobooks, or you can take advantage of our readers’ and music or to find out about our curbside advisory, resume and college essay review delivery of library materials. services. How-to videos for using our virtual resources, Keep up with what our MCLS family is doing as well as computer classes, may be found on by frequently visiting our website and social the MCLS YouTube channe. media sites – Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, If you are missing visiting the library for Blogspot, Pinterest, Goodreads and YouTube. children’s programming, go to our Kids’ Tell us how you are keeping busy staying at Page or the MCLS YouTube channel for home, and participate in our daily challenges, access to online story times in English and including our LEGO challenge and upcoming Spanish, crafts, music and science sessions, photography contest. Keep checking back – and activities presented by our youth we are offering new content every day! services librarians and some of your favorite Don’t have an MCLS library card, but think entertainers. Our YouTube videos are not just you are eligible for one? We’ve set up a for children though – you can find cooking, temporary online application service to assist. DIY tutorials, book reviews, and a host of Staff will issue temporary cards between the other content geared toward all ages. We hours of 10 am and 3 pm daily, until the library currently have over 750 videos posted, with re-opens to the public. For more information almost 40,000 views! about this NEW and temporary service, see Content is being added daily to our Facebook https://www.mcl.org/online-registration. page at www.fb.me/mclsnj including our Please be assured, no library materials will be Tuesday Trivia Night events at 7:00pm and due during our closing, and no overdue fines Wednesday evenings at 8:00pm for discussions will accrue, so please hold on to your library of readily-available short stories, TED talk materials until you can visit us again. discussions, and other virtual events. A library card is not necessary to visit any of the For now, we look forward to serving you library’s social media pages. through the library’s online offerings! FORWARD by Progressive Center: One place, many services.
series/wellness-wednesdays.php to see the schedule and to register.
Stay in touch! Visit our Facebook page (www. facebook.com/RutgersFCHSMercerCounty) Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Mercer and our website (https://mercer.njaes.rutgers. County is offering virtual services and edu/fchs/). programs to the public! Visit our website (https://mercer.njaes.rutgers.edu/) for more Read our Visions newsletter: https://njaes. information. Please note that the office is rutgers.edu/visions/ currently closed due to COVID-19, but staff members are available by email. If you would like information on our programs, please contact Michelle Brill at Home Horticulture [email protected]. Do you have a home gardening question? Contact Margaret Pickoff, County SNAP-Ed Program Horticulturist, at [email protected] Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program for assistance. Margaret and a team of trained (SNAP) Education, or SNAP-Ed, is also Rutgers Master Gardeners are standing by to offered by the FCHS department, and provides help answer your plant and insect queries. Be programs to SNAP-eligible audiences to sure to include a detailed description of your increase the likelihood they will make healthy, question or problem, your contact information, budget-friendly food choices and lead more and a few clear photos of the plant or insect. active lives.
Family and Community Health Sciences Due to COVID-19, all of SNAP-Ed’s classes The Department of Family & Community will be offered virtually for the rest of 2020; Health Sciences (FCHS) promotes health some of the topics we cover are: “Stretching and wellness throughout the community Food Dollars”, “Meal Planning”, and “Healthy through education, research, collaboration Beverages”. and partnerships with a focus on food, nutrition, and healthy lifestyles. In-person SNAP-Ed also works in collaboration with and virtual programs are available as are community partners to improve healthy food newsletters, webinars, videos, and professional access throughout Mercer County. development workshops. If your organization is interested in hosting Join us every Wednesday at 2:00 for our a class via Zoom, or you would like more “Wellness Wednesdays” webinars on nutrition information about how you can partner to topics relevant to a wide range of audiences. improve food access, please contact Joan Visit https://njaes.rutgers.edu/online-event- Healy at [email protected]. PG 19 POWER OF ATTORNEY EXPLAINED This article was adapted from and article authored by authored by Ryann M. Siclari, Esquire, and Daniel I. Rubin, Esquire, both senior staff attorneys and Marissa Fisher, a paralegal at Central Jersey Legal Services. It has been shortened to fit into this publications. If you would like to see the full article, visit Central Jersey Legal Service online.
What is a Power of Attorney? power to sell real estate, the power to create A power of attorney is a legal document by trusts, the power to hire professionals, such which you (the principal) appoint someone as accountants or attorneys, and the power else (the agent or attorney-in-fact) to manage to make gifts in accordance with your estate your financial affairs if you are alive but plan. If a power is not listed, your agent does incapable of doing so yourself due to physical not have the authority to do it. As such, a or mental incapacity. A durable power of carefully drafted power of attorney is critical attorney is a power of attorney that continues when it comes to managing your affairs, even if the principal becomes incapacitated especially in the event long-term care is after it is signed. The Power of Attorney agent needed. does not have authority to make medical or healthcare decisions. The agent for healthcare There are two types of powers of attorney: decisions is appointed in a separate document immediate and springing. An immediate known as a Healthcare Proxy or Advance power of attorney is effective the date that it is Directive. signed, meaning the agent can write checks or handle transactions on your behalf that day. A power of attorney will specifically list the powers that you are giving your agent. Whereas a springing power of attorney Some of the most important powers include “springs into action” orbecomes effective only banking powers, such as writing checks, the when you become incapacitated. Each PG 20 FORWARD SUMMER 2020 STATE OF NEW JERSEY VOL 70 PG 21 DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES has pros and cons. The pro of the immediate power of attorney is that your agent doesn’t have to take any additional steps to handle financial issues on your behalf. Additionally, you are not giving up your right to make your own decisions as long as you still have capacity. The con of the immediate power of attorney is that many people do not necessarily want to give someone that authority if they are healthy. However, this con is mitigated if you choose a responsible agent that you trust (see below on how to pick an agent). The pro of a springing power of attorney is that it only goes into effect if you are incapable PERSONAL of managing your own affairs. The con is that it is often very ASSISTANCE difficult, and sometimes impossible, for the agent to prove that you are incapacitated. The agent would need two doctors to SERVICES certify in writing that you are incapable of managing your own affairs. Often doctors are reticent to write these letters. Even PROGRAM if your agent can get the letters, the bank may reject them as Grants for the insufficient as the bank has discretion to determine if the power services you need! of attorney terms requiring incapacity has been satisfied. The only way to remediate this con is to have an immediate power of PASP offers consumers attorney. choice, flexibility, control and the opportunity to How do I pick an Agent? manage their personal care Your selection of an agent should not be based solely on age, services through the receipt relationship, gender, or the fact that you do not want to hurt of a cash allowance. someone’s feelings. Your selection of agent should be based on who you believe is most suitable for the job. An agent under your CONTACT US NOW! power of attorney is a fiduciary which means they are acting on your behalf for your benefit. You are essentially hiring someone Pamela Mazzucca to manage your finances for your benefit. Qualities you should PASP Consultant at ADRC consider include trustworthiness, financial 609-989-6459 savviness, credit or lack thereof, history of bankruptcy, and [email protected] 640 South Broad Street someone who has likeminded spending habits. PO Box 8068 The most important responsibility of an agent is to manage the Trenton, NJ 08650-0068 assets of principal for the benefit of the principal. To do that, the agent must manage the principal’s assets carefully by paying bills on time, cancelling unnecessary bills, investing money appropriately, and obtaining government assistance where appropriate, among many other tasks. The agent must also keep POWER OF ATTORNEY EXPLAINED Estado de Nueva Jersey ■ Ryann M. Siclari of Central Jersey Legal Services. Departamento de Servicios Humanos the principal’s assets separate from their own. The agent is not a joint owner of the principal’s assets; the agent manages the principal’s assets on his or her behalf. Additionally, the agent must keep excellent records to show how the principal’s assets are spent. For a PDF guide from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau titled “Managing Someone Else’s Money: Help for agents under a power of attorney” visit https://files.consumerfinance. gov/f/documents/cfpb_msem_power-of-attorney_guide.pdf. This guide will help you, and your agent, more thoroughly understand PROGRAMA DE their responsibilities. SERVICIOS DE Do I need a Power of Attorney? Every single adult who is eighteen (18) or over who has capacity ASISTENCIA to sign a power of attorney, should have a power of attorney in PERSONAL place and they should not get it off the internet. What if I do not Subvenciones para los have a Power of Attorney? If the person becomes incapable of servicios que necesita managing his or her own financial affairs without a power of attorney in place, then their family must become legal guardian in PASP ofrece a los order to be able handle the financial affairs. consumidores opciones, flexibilidad, control y la When does a POA end? oportunidad de administrar A power of attorney gives the agent the authority to handle your sus servicios de cuidado financial affairs while you are alive. A power of attorney ends personal a traves del recibo de at the earlier of (1) its revocation or (2) your death. Revocation una asignacion en efectivo. means that you still have capacity and you put in writing your decision to end the power of attorney you previously signed. CONTACTANOS AHORA! This can be done with a written document stating that you are revoking your power of attorney or, more commonly, you draft Pamela Mazzucca a new power of attorney. If the power of attorney is revoked, Consultor PASP en ADRC it is important that all banks or financial institution receive 609-989-6459 notification that the prior agent no longer has authority. [email protected] 640 South Broad Street PO Box 8068 If you need legal help, please contact the Mercer County office Trenton, NJ 08650-0068 of Central Jersey Services at 609-695-6249 to be screened for eligibility. POWER OF ATTORNEY EXPLAINED THIS PUBLICATION IS A COLLABORATION BETWEEN TWO AGENCIES TO BRING YOU MORE INFORMATION! ■ Ryann M. Siclari of Central Jersey Legal Services. Articles and photos in this issue have been curated by both the Progressive Center for Independent Living and Mercer County Aging and Disability Resource Connection.
BOARD MEMBERS MERCER STAFF President Treasurer Executive Director Support Coordinator Steve Gruzlovic Kelly Klein Scott Elliott Lisa Acton Program Manager Amanda Bamrah Vice President Members Renee Pfaff Samantha Culbertson Matt Panyko Eric Laufenburg Program Specialist Lisa Marie Duran Reed Thomas Brittney Miller Jill Novotny, Secretary Gateway Instructor Lauren Agoratus Manager Lauren Gosciniak Sara Olexsak HUNTERDON STAFF RAMP Instructor Kim Such, Program Specialist & Support Coordinator DaMonique Walker Supervisor Laura Tapp Mentor Coordinator Office Assistant Support Coordinator Edson St. Juste Lauren Pfaff Christine Hanneken
MERCER COUNTY AGING & DISABILITY RESOURCE CONNECTION
ADMINISTRATIVE ADRC STAFF NUTRITION STAFF STAFF Bilingual Community Nutrition Program Executive Director Service Aide Director Eileen E. Doremus Monica Maldonado Jenifer Williams Program Planner/ Monitor Health Insurance Benefits Social Services Kaitlyn Adlerman Clerk Coordinator/ Principal Accountant Tina Spoto Administrative Assistant Gail Derry Seyed Azhir PASP Consultant & Administrative Assistant/ Disability I & A Specialist Nutrition Program Farmer’s Market Pam Mazzucca Monitor Tahirih Gomez-Smith Coordinator ADRC Receptionist Lisa Marion Denise Knighton One place, many services.
VOL 70 SUMMER 2020 One place, many services.
Progressive Center for Independent Living FREE MATTER FOR 3635 Quakerbridge Road THE BLIND AND Suite 40 HANDICAPPED Hamilton, NJ 08619
Phone: 609-581-4500 Fax: 609-581-4555 E-mail: [email protected] Site: www.pcil.org