ISSUE 2 • VOLUME 4 • WINTER 2015 TheThe St.St. DominicDominic VillageVillage FROM OUR HOME TO YOURS VoiceVoice St. Dominic Village Rehabilitation and Nursing Center • The Assisted Living at St. Dominic Village • The Independent Living at St. Dominic Village • Angel House • Pope Saint John XXIII Priest Residence

I encourage everyone to get involved this year. Whether Message from through volunteering with our residents, becoming involved with our Committees and Board, or attending one or more of our many Amy... fundraising events, each individual can make an impact here at St. Dominic Village. My door is always open tand I would love the appy New Year everyone! opportunity to discuss ways for everyone to find their niche here. HI hope that the holidays and the end of 2014, brought everyone Amy Shields, LNHA a great deal of peace, renewal Chief Executive Officer and happiness with family and friends! Thank you again to everyone who came out and supported our residents during their many Christmas events! It is such a joy to see how happy our residents are when Letter from Chairman they are surrounding by people who care about them. Mr. Frank Rizzo I think a new year is always an exciting time! A fresh start, but also a time to reflect upon the past! That is no different here at St. Dominic Village! 2015, will Greetings, be our 40th Anniversary. In this newsletter you will read about our rich history. We are so proud of the od bless you all as we enter a very exciting year at St. Dominic four decades that we have been able to serve seniors GVillage. While 2014 was a year filled with many success stories in our community. Over the last 40 years we have for us, it was also an interesting year as we transitioned from our been able to expand our services to meet the needs former CEO, to new management under our current CEO Amy of a broader spectrum of seniors, from Independent Shields. It was a year that forced us all to take a deep breath as the Living to the Rehabilitation/Healthcare Center. We Board of Directors re-focused and re-committed to strategic goals. are so proud of the spectrum of services we are able to It was also a year that saw some very hard work from Staff, as St. offer our community. Spiritual, healthcare and social Dominic Village gained a 4 star rating; transforming it into one of the programs truly set us apart from our competitors and premier retirement communities in the area. So it comes as are what make this campus to special to so many of no surprise for me to say with all confidence, that in 2015 we will only us. build on that success. St. Dominic Village is a Catholic community that provides In moving forward to the next 40 years, my hope a continuum of quality care with dignity and the compassion of is thart we remain true to our mission of serving Christ. This is our mission and this is what the future holds for our seniors with the compassion of Christ. I am also community, a continuation of quality care as we work toward our looking forward to making some cosmetic changes goals for 2015. Quality is what sets St. Dominic Village apart from our to our campus and facilities. These changes will be competitors and that quality goes beyond just care givers. From top to gradual, but hopefully will make a huge difference bottom, quality is something all staff members at St. Dominic Village to the residents that currently call this home, and for strive for, and we see it evident not only throughout each department, those we are yet to serve. but from our volunteers and consultants as well. Continued on page 2 CONT. FROM PAGE 1

Of course none of this would be possible without the efforts of the St. Dominic Village to Celebrate people who work at St. Dominic Village. On behalf of the Board of Directors, I 40th Anniversary By Lisa May, Director of Archives & Records would like to say thank you to all of our Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston employees, the fruits of your labors are evident in the smiles on the faces of our t. Dominic Village may be preparing Diocese are not isolated or moved to residents. Your efforts have not gone un- Sto celebrate its 40th anniversary, but rooms to live out their days in loneliness, noticed and we are all very proud of your its roots go back to the start of the 20th our decided to use the 17 acre accomplishments. century. In 1906, the Dominican Sisters campus to be purchased as a total Diocesan I’d also like to say a special thank you opened St. Agnes Academy on the outskirts Center, combining facilities and activities to our donors and supporters, without of downtown Houston, and they also bought for the young, for the deaf, for the aged you, our mission would be a tremendous property along Almeda Road. Twenty - in short, for everyone in the Diocese.” struggle. Because of your kindness we are years later, the Dominicans moved their As a first step in that process, the able to accomplish something very unique motherhouse from its former college at St. Dominic Village. We are glad you original site in Galveston dormitories, Rosary share our vision of providing quality care to the Almeda property. and Siena Halls, were and appreciate all the support you have Two decades after that, renovated. In August given us. We look forward to a continued in September of 1945, of 1975, they opened relationship as we move forward and from the Sisters received a as an independent- our heart to yours, you are truly special. charter to open Sacred living facility, under Heart Dominican the direction of an Finally, to our residents; thank you College, a liberal arts “administrator of for allowing us to serve you here at St. college for women. housing & programs Dominic Village. As we move into 2015, With the University of for the elderly.” Plans keep in mind that we are in this together St. Thomas, it was one were also made for and are looking forward to the opportunity of only two Catholic a $1 million nursing to make you even more satisfied this year colleges in the Diocese. home, “to provide than you were last year. You are what In 1974, facing complete, long- drives our passion and we are committed declining enrollments and a large debt, term care for 100 persons.” to giving you the best care possible. the Dominican Sisters made the difficult Bishop Morkovsky and what was then Thank you for reading this message.W decision to close the college at the end of the Senate of Priests (now the Presbyteral St. Dominic Village will be striding the next academic year. The official date of Council) also had in mind the needs of forward this year and we are happy you closing was May 11, 1975. In January of that retired priests in the Diocese. In May of have taken the time to get involved in year, Bishop John Morkovsky announced a 1977, Msgr. , then the our mission. From that perspective I am three-year campaign to raise $3.5 million, Chancellor of the Diocese, announced reminded of the New Testament verse in “to purchase Dominican College and on behalf of the Bishop that a committee James 2:14, “What good is it, my brothers convert it into a Diocesan Center with would be formed “to continue to study the and sisters, if you say you have faith but emphasis on the Home for the Aged.” As feasibility of a retirement home for priests.” do not have works? Can faith save you?” part of the campaign, a film was produced Two years later, on December 1, 1979, Whether you are an employee, resident, to be shown in parishes, with the ambitious Bishop Morkovsky broke ground for the volunteer, or donor, being involved is really goal of reaching facility on the the only way St. Dominic Village will everyone in the St. Dominic stride forward; so please, stay connected Diocese. Sadly, Center and get involved, we would hate for you no copy of this grounds. It to miss an opportunity to be a part of film seems to would include something great. have survived. rooms for eight Bishop residents, Respectfully, Morkovsky had as well as Frank Rizzo for many years communal Chairman of the Board of Directors been concerned areas and a St. Dominic Village about affordable small chapel. housing for Construction Top: The groundbreaking for the retirement the elderly, moved center was Dec. 1, 1979. Shown are Msgr. Dexter especially quickly and George, Jack Earthman (architect) and Bishop those on a fixed income. But he the building was completed in July of John Morkovsky. had more than just shelter in mind. the next year. The summer of 1980 also Bottom: Construction of the Nursing Home, As the campaign materials stated, brought the completion of St. Dominic February of 1981 “To make certain that the aged of this Nursing Home, a 120-bed facility.

2 ∙ St. Dominic Village | January 2015 By Lisa May, Director of Archives & Records Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston

The next year of 1981 would bring In 1999, the Diocese made the decision Corps is to promote the Village around the several milestones. Both the nursing to merge its elder-care facilities, St. Dominic Archdiocese. One of the major fundraising home and the priests’ residence, named for Nursing Home, St. Dominic Residence events for the Village is the annual “Bishop Pope John XXIII, were blessed by Bishop Hall, and Pope John XXIII Residence, Rizzotto Golf Classic,” the first of which Morkovsky in July that year. As part of the into one community, St. Dominic Village. was organized under the sponsorship of ceremonies, Mass was celebrated in the The goal was to create “a continuum of Auxiliary Bishop Vincent Rizzotto in 2003. center’s new Warren Chapel. Honoring care,” in the words of Susan Stromatt, then St. Dominic Village continues to expand Jack and Dorothy Warren “for their the Director of the Secretariat of Social its services in providing the continuum generosity and encouraging support,” it Concerns for the Chancery. As she told of care. Earlier this year, a 14-bed skilled had been completed in April. That fall, the the Catholic Herald at the time of the nursing unit opened for short-term Diocese acquired an additional 9.7 acres merger, “People can move in here and live rehabilitation. And in September, Daniel on the site from the Dominican Sisters. independently, knowing that if they ever do Cardinal DiNardo joined The facilities at St. Dominic Center need nursing home care they can stay here Emeritus Joseph Fiorenza, Auxiliary soon increased with the new property. In . . . they won’t have to move.” Two years Bishop , and Auxiliary 1990, a 10-suite addition to the Pope John later, the dedication of the St. Dominic Bishop Emeritus Vincent Rizzotto, to break XXIII Priests Residence was completed. Village Tower added additional facilities ground for the new “Archbishop Joseph A. It was blessed the same day as the new for independent and assisted living. Fiorenza Priest Retirement Residence.” diocesan buildings on the site, the Cameron St. Dominic Village takes as its motto, It is scheduled to open in the fall of 2015. Retreat Center and the Chancery, as well “Caring for our elders with the compassion as the St. Vincent de Paul House. Over the of Christ.” To assist in that ministry, it has Clockwise: Clem Wead, manager of next few years, the retirement home would always relied on the generous support the gift shop. - December of 1976 add buildings to accommodate residents of donors and volunteers, in addition to The photo of the dedication of needing different levels of care. The first, in the work of the dedicated staff. In 2001, Warren Chapel by Bishop Morkovsky 1992, was Dorothy Hall. In 1996, Maloney the St. Dominic Village Patron Corps was on July 26, 1981 Hall, the gift of Estelle and Davis Maloney, established, with two goals. The first is to Dorms of St. Dominic Village, provided assisted living and nursing care for provide funds for “extras” such as exercise renovated in the summer of 1975. priests and religious. Later that same year, equipment and furniture for common areas. Charlotte Hall opened, built with grants from A rose garden and fountain honoring Corps The dedication of Dorothy Hall by the Scanlan and Cameron Foundations, the member Rose Carrabba was dedicated Bishop Fiorenza. Cameron gift in honor of Charlotte Cameron. in 2006. The second goal of the Patron

St. Dominic Village | January 2015 ∙ 3 LITURGICAL SCHEDULE – FIRST QUARTER OF 2015 St. Dominic Village Spiritual Schedule ORDINARY TIME BEGINS 8 Sunday - Third Sunday of Lent 18 Sunday - Secovnd Sunday in Ordinary Time 13 Friday - Stations of the Cross – 3:00 p.m. 22 Thursday - Holy Hour of Prayer for the Legal Protection of 15 Sunday - Fourth Sunday of Lent - Laetare Sunday Unborn Children – 1:00 p.m. 19 Thursday - Solemnity of Saint Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin 25 Sunday - Third Sunday in Ordinary Time Mary and Patron of the Universal Church 20 Friday - Stations of the Cross – 3:00 p.m. FEBRUARY 2015 22 Sunday - Fifth Sunday of Lent 1 Sunday - Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time 25 Wednesday - Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord 2 Monday - Feast of the Presentation of the Lord with Blessing of 27 Friday - Stations of the Cross – 3:00 p.m. Candles – 8:15 a.m. HOLY WEEK BEGINS 3 Tuesday - Memorial of St. Blaise with Blessing of Throats – All Masses 29 Sunday - Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord 7 Saturday - Order of Malta Archdiocesan Mass for the Anointing 30 Monday of Holy Week of the Sick – 10:00 a.m. at Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart 31 Tuesday of Holy Week 8 Sunday - Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time MARCH 2015 15 Sunday - Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time 1 Wednesday of Holy Week LENT BEGINS THE TRIDUUM (from sundown on Thursday until sundown on Sunday) 18 Wednesday - Ash Wednesday 2 Thursday - Mass of the Lord’s Supper – 7:00 p.m. 20 Friday - Stations of the Cross – 3:00 p.m. 3 Friday - The Passion and Death of the Lord (Good Friday) – 3:00 p.m. 22 Sunday - First Sunday of Lent 4 Saturday - Vigil of Easter – 7:00 p.m. 27 Friday - Stations of the Cross – 3:00 p.m. 5 Sunday - Resurrection of the Lord – 10:00 a.m. 1 Sunday - Second Sunday of Lent EASTER SEASON CONTINUES THROUGH PENTECOST 6 Friday - Stations of the Cross – 3:00 p.m.

Mass for the Anointing of the Sick

ORDER OF MALTA FEDERAL ASSOCIATION, U.S.A. HOUSTON REGION

Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart ∙ 1111 St. Joseph Parkway, Houston, TX 77002

For more information on Mass schedules and to register for the Anointing Mass, please contact: Patricia Egerman, Coordinator, Spiritual Care & Volunteers Phone: 713-741-8718 ∙ Fax: 713-748-168305 ∙ [email protected]

4 ∙ St. Dominic Village | January 2015 SPIRITUAL CONT. A Prayer for the New Year Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children What shall I ask for the coming year Thursday, January 22 What shall my watchword be anuary 22 is the anniversary of Roe v. Wade and has been formally named as the “Day What should you do for me, dear Lord What can I do for thee? Jof Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children.” On this day St. Dominic Village will celebrate the Mass for Giving Thanks to God for the Gift of Human Life. Lord, I would ask for a holy year Spent in your perfect will As this is also a day for Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in Warren Chapel, we will Help me to walk in your very steps have a Holy Hour of Prayer for the Protection of Unborn Children beginning at 1:00 p.m. Help me to please you still. Lord, I would ask for a trustful year Blessing of St. Blaise Give me your faith divine Tuesday, February 3 Taking my full inheritance “Through the intercession of St. Blaise, bishop and martyr, may God deliver Making your fullness mine! you from ailments of the throat and from every other evil. In the Name of the Lord, I would ask for a year of love Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” O let me love you best Give me the love that never fails n Tuesday, February 3rd, we celebrate the Memorial of St. Blaise. Legend has it Beneath the hardest test. Othat while Blaise was being taken into custody during a persecution of Christians, a distraught mother, whose only child was choking on a fishbone, threw herself at Lord, I would ask for a year of prayer his feet and implored his intercession. Touched at her Teach me to walk with thee grief, he offered up his prayers, and the child was cured. Breathe in my heart the Spirit’s prayer Consequently, Saint Blaise is invoked for protection against Pray you your prayer in me! injuries and illnesses of the throat. Lord, I would ask for the dying world At St. Dominic Village on this day the blessing of St. Blaise Stretch forth your mighty hand will be given at all Masses: two blessed candles are held in Your truth proclaim, your power display a crossed position by a priest near the throat of the faithful while the blessing of St. Blasé This year in every land. is invoked. Lord, I would ask for a year of joy Your peace, your joy divine St. Joseph Day at St. Dominic Village Springing undimmed through all the days Be your days of shade or shine. Thursday, March 19 St. Joseph Day Table - An Age-Old Italian Tradition Lord, I ask for a year of hope Looking for you to come aint Joseph is one of the most beloved saints among Italian-Americans. As the patron And hastening on that year of years That brings us home to you. Sof workers and the protector of the family, he is honored with a feast on March 19. Herald of Light According to legend, there was a famine in Sicily many centuries ago. The villagers prayed to St. Joseph, foster-father of the Infant Savior, and asked his intercession before the throne of God. Their prayers were answered. With the ending of the dreadful famine, UPCOMING a special feast of thanksgiving was held in commemoration of the Saint. This celebration became tradition. Wealthy families prepared huge buffets. They then invited the less EVENTS fortunate people of the village, especially the homeless and sick. February 6 at 1:30 p.m. Join us in Charlotte Hall Social Area after the 8:15 a.m. Mass as the St. Dominic Village Valentine's Day Dance St. Joseph Table is blessed and we share food and fellowship in honor of St. Joseph. Bring co-sponsored with the Office of Aging your favorite St. Joseph Day food! All financial contributions are welcome and, in keeping with the tradition of a St. Joseph Table, go to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul to provide March 12 for those less fortunate. 2015 Bishop Rizzotto Golf Classic BlackHorse Golf Club May 11 at 6:30p.m. An Evening with the

St. Dominic Village | January 2015 ∙ 5 SPIRITUAL CONT.

Fast and Abstenence During Lent Palms to Ashes sh Wednesday is February 18th this year. Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are days of As we prepare for Lent, we make plans to Afast and abstinence. Fridays of Lent are days of abstinence. collect last year’s blessed palms and burn Fasting is obligatory for all who have completed their 18th year and have not yet reached them into ashes which will be placed on our their 60th year. In other words, anyone 60 years or older is not required to fast at all. Please foreheads on Ash Wednesday. Look for the note, if you are fasting, fasting allows a person to eat one full meal. Two smaller meals may container in Warren Chapel at the beginning also be taken, not to equal one full meal. of February and place your blessed palms in If possible, the fast on Good Friday is continued until the Easter Vigil (on Holy Saturday it. On Wednesday, February 11th, weather night) as the ‘paschal fast’ to honor the suffering and death of the Lord Jesus, and to prepare permitting; we will have a Ritual Palm ourselves to share more fully and to celebrate more readily his Resurrection. Burning outside of Warren Chapel. Abstinence (from meat) is obligatory for all who have reached their 14th year. Fridays in Lent are obligatory days of complete abstinence (from meat) for all who have completed their 14th year. Changes coming to Assisted Through our works of prayer, fasting, and abstinence, let us heed the Prophet Joel’s Living Dining.... exhortation to return to God with our whole heart (2:12).” By Lynn Gillespie, IL/AL Administrator ecember brought some changes to Dthe Assisted Living Dining room to Fasting and Feasting enhance the residents’ dining experience. By William Arthur Ward We looked to, Rey Garcia, our new Food Lent can be more than a time of fasting. It can also be a joyous season of feasting. Lent is a time to Service Director and Chef to help us fast from certain things and to feast on others. It is a season to: establish a new serving plan that would Fast from judging others; feast on Christ living in them. allow for a more individualized service. Fast from emphasis on differences; feast on the unity of all life. Staff will also be trained in some easier Fast from apparent darkness; feast on the reality of light. and more efficient ways to serve and clean Fast from thoughts of illness; feast on the healing power of God. tables. We have some new china and are Fast from words that pollute; feast on phrases that purify. looking for glassware that will be easy to Fast from discontent; feast on gratitude. hold yet not to heavy when filled with a Fast from anger; feast on patience. beverage; it is a tricky issue. This is also Fast from pessimism; feast on optimism. an issue with cups; things of the aging Fast from worry; feast on appreciation. process that we want to solve successfully. Fast from complaining; feast on appreciation. We are looking at table linens, aesthetic Fast from negatives; feast on affirmatives enhancements, and a positive atmosphere Fast from unrelenting pressures; feast on unceasing prayer. for dining. The food for Assisted Living is Fast from hostility; feast on non-resistance. prepared in the main kitchen and brought Fast from bitterness; feast on forgiveness. over in insulated carts then placed in Fast from self-concern; feast on compassion for others. the steam table, on my wish list is a new Fast from personal anxiety; feast on eternal hope through Jesus. steam table!! We will be continuing this Fast from discouragement; feast on hope. process into the New Year. Fast from lethargy; feast on enthusiasm. Fast from suspicions; feast on truth. Fast from idle gossip; feast on purposeful silence. Love to shop online? Fast from thoughts of weakness; feast on promises that inspire. Consider AmazonSmile & Make a Contribution to Fast from problems that overwhelm; feast on prayer that undergirds. St. Dominic Village, A Senior Care Community Fast from everything that separates us from the Lord; feast on everything that draws us to the Lord. When you shop at smile.amazon.com, you’ll find the exact same low prices, vast selection As Prioress of the Dominican Sisters and on behalf of all the Dominican and convenient shopping experience as Sisters in Houston, our heartfelt congratulations on your 40th Anniversary.

“ Amazon.com, with the added bonus that It was a sad moment when we had to sell Dominican College, but we knew it Amazon will donate a portion of the purchase

would be used in a new way in the service of God. And it certainly has! All the price to St. Dominic Village. wonderful ministries that are present in St. Dominic Village “ are a testament to that reality. We are especially grateful for all levels of care that are provided. So the next time you shop Amazon: Our sisters benefit from therapy after surgeries and others for long term care. 1. register at smile.amazon.com We remain grateful and keep the Village in our prayers. 2. choose St. Dominic Village — Carol Mayes, O.P. Prioress, Dominican Sisters 3. shop It’s that simple! For more information, visit, We are working with Sr. Mary Magdalen, archivist for the Dominican Sisters to smile.amazon.com. bring you more historical information on St. Dominic Village.

6 ∙ St. Dominic Village | January 2015 BIRTHDAYS Happy Birthday, Baby! January March Margaret Arnold Doug Baxter Katherine Burda Marjorie Bieter Jose Cabral February David Clark Iola Crawford Robert “Bob” Frank Veronica Daniluk Fr. Gabre Adhana Helen Guthrie Mary Ann Fanning Efren Batungbacal Melville “Mel” Gutierrez Nina Faulkner Mary Baxter Theresa Jarrell Leocadia Fusilier Virgie Clue LC Jones James Hamlin Frances Dupree Mary Langley Eugene “Gene” Lynch Izola Gite Patricia Leblanc Maurine Markewich Mary Macey Mildred Lewis Margaret “Peggy” Mellody Norma Potier Naomi Moore John Mitchell Karlene Rhinier Martha Parful Elvira Pesina Van Roberts Reba Perry Jose Sanchez Geraldine “Gerrie” Steward Beatriz San Pedro William Pickard Rose Stranahan Theresa Plunkett Sergio San Pedro Mary Welhoelter Kenn Rodriguez Cheryl Sollid Bernice Wolters Fr. Joe Rousell, Jr., C.S.B. Annie Sprta Michael Ruppert David Vaughn Oscar Walker Gertrude Welsh Michael Young

Letter from Fr. Carl Belish, CSB

Dear Lynn,

said Mass at Warren Chapel on IFriday, the day after Thanksgiving. I asked a couple of the ladies who were attending the Mass whether they had A Rare “Find” spent Thanksgiving with their families n the last seven years which I have spent in St. Dominic Village, I am lucky to report that I have or spent it at St. Dominic’s. Both of them Imet a “Potpourri” of residents who have a great deal to offer and who draw a unanimous vote! had stayed at St. D’s for Thanksgiving Ergo, I should like to introduce to you our professional “in house” nurse, Susan McDaniel. In and both of them remarked that they had all that she does she accomplishes greatly in such a good time! They were glad they her quiet, humble way after having analyzed a spent the day “at home” rather than be situation thoroughly with a doctor or an official. with family. How very lucky we are to have her here with us! The next time you need her services, such as Thank you and the staff for making needing a flu shot, take a minute to observe how St. Dominic’s such a friendly place calm, cool and collected her approach is. Therefore, and making those ladies have such a a potentially stressful happening, joined by the wonderful holiday. Holy Spirit, presents a successful solution to our Susan McDaniel. And thank you so much for all you do and have done for us Basilians. As for me, I have told Susan publicly that if anytime she is going anywhere, to please let me know, because I want to go with her! Smile! And may God bless you always, Susan. Sincerely, Respectfully submitted, Gina A. Pettinati Fr. Carl Belisch, CSB

St. Dominic Village | January 2015 ∙ 7 TRIBUTES

TRIBUTESPlease note that the cross in front of a name represents a memorial & gift to a deceased DONATIONS loved one.

Mr. and Mrs. John Martinez Annual Bake Sale Nursing Home + Ellen Milam Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Wilson Ms. Mary Lou Daniel Mr. and Mrs. Joe Egan + Zorina Najarian Mr. and Mrs. John Sellers Mr. Paul Norris Mr. and Mrs. Mark Newell Mary Frances Najarian Mr. and Mrs. Paul Scharf Dr. and Mrs. Charles DeJohn Mr. and Mrs. Ronalds Manning Msgr. Fred O'Conner Mr. and Mrs. Rudolf Marent Mr. and Mrs. Lemuel L. Leach, III Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Bevans Fr. Roy Oggero Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Koval Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert Lazo Mr. John F. Hammond + Mary Abramcik + Edith L. Pereira Ms. La-Verne Burch Ms. Zee Klein Mr. John Milutin, P.C. + Rose Babaian Bishop Rizzotto Mr. Robert F. Van Cleve Dr. and Mrs. Richard Babaian Ms. Ann Cashiola Ms. A. Pinet McBride + Frederick William Bischoff Mr. and Mrs. Jay Chaffee Ms. Anna Sprta Annunciation Orthodox School Ms. Evelyn Franz Ms. Bettye White Mr. James Hamilton Miller Ms. Colleen Jennings Ms. Dona Cornell + Joseph P. Bobb Mr. and Mrs. Michael Kaney Ms. Emily Ponte Mr. and Mrs. Jerry E. Bruley Mr. and Mrs. Joe Matejka Ms. Frances Schneider Ruth Ann Boyd Mrs. Joe Talamantez Ms. Julia Reyser Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Sengele Dr. and Mrs. Guillermo Trabanino Ms. Lynda Eichler + Frank G. Chavez Margarita Saenz Ms. Lynn Schriber Bishop Wendelin J. Nold Assembly Ms. Maria Garcia Ms. Patricia Egerman + Msgr. Joe Crosthwait Natalie C. Sample Ms. Ruth Gonzalez Mr. and Mrs. Gustave Mistrot, III Ms. Susan Sample Ms. Zee Klein Betty Daily Gloria Sawka Rev. Msgr. Frank Rossi Mr. and Mrs. Domenic Dell'Osso Ms. Marian Nimon + Millie Dampf + Viola Shu & +Thomas O'Toole Christmas Appeal 2014 Mr. Donald Dampf Ms. Linda O'Toole Deacon John Singer Alyce Fahy + Mr. Lewis Senese Dr. and Mrs. Charles DeJohn Mr. and Mrs. Peter Quinn Ms. June Woroski Dr. and Mrs. Edward Poa Julia Fojo + Viola Shu Dr. and Mrs. Guillermo Trabanino Ms. Isabel Sanchez Ms. Ellen W. M. Gray Mr. Albert Suhor + Victoria Galvan Anna Sprta Mr. and Mrs. Bryant E. Parker Mr. and Mrs. Johnny Hendricks Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Krajca Mr. and Mrs. David Hessel + Josaphine Gilmore The Staff of St. Dominic Village Mr. and Mrs. Domenic Dell'Osso Ms. Ada Francescon Mr. Tom Viviano Mr. and Mrs. Elliott Jones + Ina Claire Haynes + Candelaria Vasquez Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert Lazo Ms. Janet H. Box Ms. Irene Vasquez-Mauch Mr. and Mrs. Harry Hasenpflug, Jr. + Kay Hebinck Gladys Viltz Mr. and Mrs. Howard Batt Ms. Shirley Westbrook Mr. Kathleen Mitchell Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Koehl Berney Hebinck Gertrude Welsh Positively Houston, Inc. Mr. Don Welsh Mr. and Mrs. James Gibson + Vicki Horecka + Mary Weisensel Woodard Mr. and Mrs. James Salvato Advance Midstrem, L. P. Ms. Ginny Cunningham Mr. and Mrs. Jay Chaffee + Robert Lee Ms. Barbara DeWitt Mr. and Mrs. Jim Daniel Mr. Edgar Sharp, Jr. Ms. Tanya Dominguez Mr. and Mrs. Joe Matejka + John Lopez, Jr. Gretchen Stephens Holdings Trust Mr. and Mrs. John Brentin Mr. and Mrs. Joe Baiardi Mr. and Mrs. B. Edward Heathcott Mr. and Mrs. John Martinez Ms. Dollie Contreras Ms. Phyllis Heinrichs Mr. and Mrs. John Stranahan Mr. Steven Kelly Ms. Patricia Lassen Mr. and Mrs. Johnny Hendricks Mr. and Mrs. Leopold Moreno Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Marchand Mr. and Mrs. Kirk Girouard Ms. Mary Moreno Michael and Michele Davis Family Fund Mr. and Mrs. Lemuel L. Leach, III Ms. Fran Walsh Mr. and Mrs. Brian Redd Mr. and Mrs. Michael Kaney + Uncle Louie Ms. Nancy Slattery Mr. and Mrs. Paul Hermanson Ms. Gina Baccaro-Sigman Mr. and Mrs. Donald Venker Mr. and Mrs. Peter Quinn Ruby and Doris Mach Ms. Christine Wagener Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Clay Deacon John Singer Dr. and Mrs. J. L. Williams Mr. and Mrs. Richard Montegut Josie Martinez

8 ∙ St. Dominic Village | January 2015 Mr. and Mrs. Ron Abramcik Mr. and Mrs. Richard Tennille Mr. and Mrs. Keith Brumbaugh Mr. and Mrs. Tom Shipp Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Kuper Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Thomson Mr. and Mrs. William Bielenda Mr. and Mrs. William Wood, III Mr. and Mrs. Mark Williamson Mr. and Mrs. William Thurber Mr. Edward Hensley Mr. and Mrs. Scott Brumbaugh Mr. David Fitzgerald Mr. Frank Theall Mr. and Mrs. Sergio San Pedro Mr. Don Welsh Mr. George Najarian Mr. and Mrs. Steven Puglia Mr. Donald Dampf Mr. Gerald Wolff Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Knight Mr. Lawrence Sellers, Jr. Mr. J. Michael Griffin Mr. Bernard Hebinck Mr. Louis Francescon Mr. James Watts, Jr. Mr. Carl Southern Mr. Paul Potier Mr. Thomas Daly Mr. Diarmuid Edward Nicholson, Jr Mr. Thomas Lightsey, Jr. Mrs. Madelyn Bambace Mr. Jaime Roman-Pavajeau, M.D., P.A. Mr. Tom Viviano Mrs. Mary Little Mr. Joseph Canino Mrs. Anne Meixner Ms. Francine Fleming Mr. Thomas Jimenez Mrs. Mike Mullally Ms. Lynn Gillespie Mrs. Adela Robinson Ms. Alberta Rogers Ms. Susan Stromatt Mrs. Dolores Yurmanovic Ms. Ana Paredes The Marek Family Foundation Mrs. Eun Cho Ms. Ann Cashiola Mrs. Katherine Burda Memorial / In Honor of Ms. Colleen Jennings Mrs. Mary Clare Wilsford Anonymous Donor Ms. Cynthia Fernandez Mrs. Suzanne Brumbaugh Airbus Helicopters Ms. Ellen W. M. Gray Mrs. Theresa Plunkett Annunciation Orthodox School Ms. Evelyn Franz Ms. Alice Fahy Dr. and Mrs. J. L. Williams Ms. Isabel Sanchez Ms. Anna Sprta Dr. and Mrs. Richard Babaian Ms. Janet H. Box Ms. Cecilia Batungbacal Dr. and Mrs. Richard Thomson Ms. Jo Therese Phalen Ms. Cecilia Weston Gretchen Stephens Holdings Trust Ms. Kathleen Mitchell Ms. Consuella Fusilier Michael and Michele Davis Family Fund Ms. La-Verne Burch Ms. Gina Pettinati Mr. and Mrs. Andy Barko, Jr. Ms. Linda O'Toole Ms. Ginny Cunningham Mr. and Mrs. B. Edward Heathcott Ms. Maggie Mercier Ms. Gladys Viltz Mr. and Mrs. Brian Redd Ms. Maria Garcia Ms. Lucille Moratto Mr. and Mrs. Danny Daniel, Sr. Ms. Marian Nimon, Jr. Ms. Margaret Mellody Mr. and Mrs. Donald Venker Ms. Mary Lou Daniel Ms. Margaret Nolte Mr. and Mrs. Gustave Mistrot, III Ms. Pauline Womac Ms. Maria Hensley Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Sengele Ms. Shirley Westbrook Ms. Marylyn Fonteno Mr. and Mrs. Jerry E. Bruley Ms. Minh Trinh Bishop Rizzotto Golf Classic 2015 Mr. and Mrs. Joe Baiardi Ms. Raquel Crawford Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Van Gheluwe Mr. and Mrs. Leopold Moreno Nursing Home Mrs. Raye G. White Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Krajca Dr. and Mrs. Guillermo Trabanino The Marek Family Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Marchand Dr. and Mrs. Robert Bryan Mr. Edgar Sharp, Jr. Grants For the care of Retired Priests Mr. Jack Hebert Anonymous Foundation Dr. and Mrs. Robert Bryan Mr. James Hamilton Miller John G. and Marie Stella Kenedy Memorial St. Martha Church Strake Foundation Mr. Paul Norris Mr. and Mrs. Michael Feldman Mr. Steven Kelly Gifts Medallion Foundation Mrs. Irene Bodden Mr. and Mrs. Virgil Gant William E. and Natoma Pyle Harvey Charitable Trust Mrs. Joe Talamantez Mr. and Mrs. Jacinto Hernandez Isla Carroll Turner Friendship Trust Ms. Barbara DeWitt Mr. and Mrs. James Coleman Ms. Christine Wagener Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Cashiola Patron Corps Ms. Dollie Contreras Ms. Virginia Case Judge Frank Rynd Ms. Fran Walsh Mr. Mario Sanchez Most Rev. Vincent Rizzotto, D.D., J.C.L Ms. Gina Baccaro-Sigman Mr. and Mrs. A.J. Goertz Mr. and Dr. James Dyer Ms. Irene Vasquez-Mauch Mr. Llayron Clarkson Mr. and Mrs. Brian Redd Ms. June Woroski Mrs. Christine Imber Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Metzger Ms. Mary Lou Daniel Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Kilchrist Mr. and Mrs. George Rizzo Ms. Mary Moreno Ms. Elaine Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Grady Mullins Ms. Nancy Slattery Mr. and Mrs. Henry Legendre Ms. Patricia Lassen Consider remembering a birthady or anniversary Mr. and Mrs. James Bilnoski, Jr. Ms. Phyllis Heinrichs with a gift to St. Dominic Village. Mr. and Mrs. James Coleman Ms. Susan Sample For more information: Call the Development Mr. and Mrs. John Johnston Ms. Tanya Dominguez Department at 713-391-2685 Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Breslin Positively Houston, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Kirk Girouard Please call Emily Ponte, editor of the St. Dominic Warren Chapel Collections Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Horrigan, Jr. Village Voice at 713.741.8722 to contribute stories Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Thomson Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Martingano Mr. and Mrs. C. J. Tobias or photos, or to make suggestions as to what Mr. and Mrs. Peter Quinn articles you would like to see. Please accept our Mr. and Mrs. Ramón San Pedro Mr. and Mrs. Harold Shupack Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Slotnick apologies for any misspellings or errors. We will Mr. and Mrs. Richard Montegut offer any corrections in the next edition.

St. Dominic Village | January 2015 ∙ 9 HIGHTLIGHT Sharing Memories: The First Officers of St. Dominic Village; Msgr. Frank Rossi, Q A Burney Hebinck and Susan Stromatt & environment within a community of their of the experience of most of the senior peers in which they receive quality care management. They cooperated but, as I at a reasonable cost. A home in which was to learn later, were terrified and did not they could age in place surrounded by know what to expect. It turned out to be caregivers with whom they were familiar. a great bonding experience for everyone, Additionally, married couples could receive enhanced working relationships and was the appropriate level of care in separate the beginning of the formation of a truly facilities located on the same property. well-functioning team. This proximity allowed them to visit each Burney Hebinck other regularly. Being elected first Chairman by the Board Burney Hebinck of Directors and helping to form a sound Q | Why did you decide to incorporate? To care for the elderly with the compassion foundation for St. Dominic Village Msgr. Rossi Susan Stromatt of Christ, serving as the only Catholic a) To provide a continuum of care for retirement/nursing home in the ARCHGH Because St. Dominic had a functioning elders by connecting the three existing Msgr. Rossi nursing home and independent residence elder care facilities and adding an The vision for St. Dominic Village was before the incorporation of St. Dominic assisted living facility. to provide a campus dedicated solely to Village, we had the presence of residents b) To provide economy of human, physical the loving care of elders in a Catholic on campus when we met. These wonderful and financial resources, e.g., one environment. With a continuum of care, women and men had a keen interest in the Executive Director, one administrator, someone who became a resident when they work of the Board and were very willing to one director of nursing services, one were able bodied and independent would give "unsolicited advice" on what we should overall budget, etc. be able to remain on the same campus do and how we should do it. Some of my c) To establish a board of directors to as they needed assisted living or nursing favorite memories are having residents provide policy and financial guidance home care. Having stability for residents walk into our meetings and telling us from and fundraising. was of utmost importance. their experience what we should be doing. Burney Hebinck Q | What were those early meetings like? Q | Any instrumental people you would like Archbishop Fiorenza made the decision to recognize? to combine and restructure various Susan Stromatt Susan Stromatt components of SDV The early board meetings were filled with getting to know each other, approving by- Instrumental in the formation of St. Msgr. Rossi laws, establishing budgets and laying plans Dominic Village was Archbishop Joseph The Archdiocese wanted to be able for the future. They were both creative and Fiorenza, Msgr. Frank Rossi and Mr. to clearly articulate that there was a exciting. Tom O’Toole. Archbishop Fiorenza was commitment to the loving care of our unwavering in his support and guidance Burney Hebinck elders by providing a campus with with every aspect of the development of Hardworking, cooperative, challenging and facilities that provided a continuum of the Village. Msgr. Rossi, then the Diocesan productive care. Thus when one heard the words Chancellor, represented the Archbishop on "St. Dominic Village" you knew it was Msgr. Rossi the Board of Directors and was invaluable a place where senior members of our As with any new endeavor, the early in his participation in the conversations community would be cared for in a meetings were spent looking at the "big of the Board. Tom O’Toole, the Diocesan Catholic environment. By having the picture" of how we wanted to lovingly care business manager at the time, provided Village completely dedicated to the care for our residents and provide for them at sound financial guidance as we developed of the elder population, more avenues for any stage in their aging process. It was only budgets, financial reports and issued bonds financial support from foundations were after achieving clarity on the vision and to build the new Assisted Living facility. available. mission that we were able to begin to look at These men were my mentors throughout facilities, functionality and fundraising. the years that I served as Executive Director. Q | What was your vision for St. Dominic Burney Hebinck Village? Q | What is your favorite memory? Susan Stromatt Susan Stromatt Susan Stromatt as the most influential, My vision for St. Dominic Village was My favorite memory was the first senior helpful and inspiring mentor any Chairman to provide a HOME for elders, a safe management retreat at Circle Lake Retreat could have hoped for Center. Such retreats were not a part

10 ∙ St. Dominic Village | January 2015 Msgr. Rossi Q | Why is taking care of our elders and friends I have referred to St. Dominic My first memory of St. Dominic was in important? Village – all of whom have gratefully 1975 soon after Bishop Morkovsky had Susan Stromatt thanked me and many times expressed purchased the property from the Houston Providing care for elders in a community their appreciation and admiration of the Dominican Sisters and began to office environment is important primarily because extraordinary kindness and care the St. some of the chancery departments on they deserve the best. In today’s world, it Dominic Village Staff have provided to the campus. One department was Youth becomes more necessary because so many make their “final years” more comfortable Ministry, of which I was a teen leader. The of their family members work full-time and pleasant. founding director of the diocesan campus jobs and are unable to provide either the Msgr. Rossi met with us teen leaders and encouraged us physical care or socialization their elders The parishes of the Archdiocese of to financially support the renovation of the need. Being homebound all day without Galveston-Houston should actively support dorms for senior living and the construction anyone can be a very lonely experience. St. Dominic Village as an expression of a nursing home for elder care. I clearly Burney Hebinck of their fulfillment of the mission of the recall donating to this cause as I thought of Lord, as well as an honoring of the former my own grandparents and would want them They are our special members of God’s community and need and deserve the parishioners who now call St. Dominic to have a nice Catholic retirement residence Village their home. to live in if they so desired to do so. I have respect, nurturing and honored treatment been a supportive fan of St. Dominic Village their years have earned. ever since. Msgr. Rossi Thank you for your vision! The loving care of our elders is fundamental Q | What is it about St. Dominic Village to the social justice teaching of the Catholic that makes it unique to elder care? Church. The Lord gave us the command Susan Stromatt to have a preferential option of care for the St. Dominic Village is unique in its most vulnerable in our society. The very Catholicity. Residents include priests, nuns, young and the very old tend to be the most and lay persons. Mass is celebrated daily in vulnerable. To lovingly care for our elders Warren Chapel, several times a week in the is an expression of the dignity they deserve nursing home and in the Assisted Living as humans and a tribute to those who lived facility. The Village would certainly appeal their lives caring for others. The residents to Catholics but is open to all regardless of of St. Dominic Village have earned our love, race, color or creed. respect and care, and they deserve our love, respect and care. Burney Hebinck I’m thankful for everything that God has Catholic, Christian atmosphere with Q | If you had the opportunity to talk to “given me, because of it weren’t for my kind, caring and competent staff and each Parish about St. Dominic Village (and beliefs, I wouldn’t find the people that administration. ask for their support of the mission), what help me through life, starting with, of course, my parents Msgr. Rossi would you say? and my wife. If it Susan Stromatt St. Dominic Village is unique in that it is wasn’t for her the only Catholic elder care facility owned I would stress all the strengths of SDV – leadership and operated by the Archdiocese. Because Mass every day within walking distance and for us being St. Dominic Village is identifiably Catholic, and in a community of peers. A home in the Church all the faith and morals of the Catholic faith with great care and activities on a beautiful her life, I wouldn’t are actively present at the campus. There campus. Location near and part of the be here today as is a chapel for daily and weekend Masses; Texas Medical Center. I am. I lost her St. priests to celebrate the sacraments of the Burney Hebinck Patrick’s Day the

anointing of the sick and reconciliation; the I would tell each Parish that they should year it was on

moral principles of health care and end of support the mission of St. Dominic Village Holy Week. So, I’m trying to take up life are known and supported; and there is because I can give personal and unqualified where she left off and trying“ to do things an aura of spirituality that permeates the testimony of the wonderful care St. Dominic for people. That’s a little summary. I campus. Village gave my 96 year old mother, her could go on and on. sister (my Aunt Helen Jones), my father-in- law Ed Tanner and dozens of other clients - Carl Southern as quoted in the November 25th edition of the Texas Catholic Herald

St. Dominic Village | January 2015 ∙ 11 SPOTLIGHT

to see all the jars filled with different items. St. Dominic Village Voice Interviews: Some days the girls would take us to the soda fountain, which is now the gift shop. We would go swimming in the pool during the Dorothia Denkins and her Mom day with them. When you grew up, why did you want Q | What led you to St. Dominic Village? Q | What is it about the place and the Q | A | My mother people that has inspired to stay and work for St. Dominic Village You go where God leads you. He worked here first you? A | brought me here at a young age knowing when it was the A | My coworkers have been Dominican College, a pleasure to work with. The that I would return years later to work with then when it became atmosphere is a homely one our seniors. St. Dominic Village. where as everyone is on a She needed someone first name basis. That says a to work in the lot about the work place. evening, and I needed Q | What is your fondest a part time job memory? Why? because I was going A | My fondest memories are when I to TSU at the time. So this was God’s plan worked on station 4 as the Activity Director. for me to follow my path to bigger and better The ladies would fold the laundry and blessings. we talk about how they would sew their Q & A with Ms. Laura Denkins: Q | What made you stay? children’s clothing. They would talk about Q | What do you remember about the A | The joy within my heart that I felt the material they used back then. Time Dominican College? interacting with seniors. It is a pleasure to would pass and they did not realize that that A | The girl’s lived in different rooms and see their faces light up when you talk with they were folding the same clothes over some were from other countries. There was them. and over until we were finished. We were this one young lady that would stop and talk Q | What roles have you served? too busy talking and having fun! Another with me for hours every day. A | Well my first job was working part favorite memory is when I took the IL residents on a trip to College Station for the Q | What is your favorite memory? time in the laundry, then I worked as the A | One year they had an end of the year ward clerk on Station 2 until one day Ruth first time to see the Christmas lights there. It made the residents faces light up and they party for the young ladies who were leaving. Stanley asked if I ever thought of becoming It was around the swimming pool and we an Activity Director. At the time I had never talked about it for months, so every year we look forward to going back to see what have BBQ’d and had a good time with the staff and heard of an Activity Director. She told me the young ladies. to find out about the classes and go take they added on. How long were you with the College? the course and I did. They were planning Q | What do you want people to know Q | Well, I worked there for 7 years before on opening two more units (station 3 & 4), about St. Dominic Village? A | they closed down. and she felt that I would be very good as an A | St. Dominic is a very caring place; Activity Director for the stations. Last but it cares about the dignity and respect of Q | How did you make the transition from not least, I am the Activity Director for the the residents and the employees. We the College to St. Dominic Village? Independent Living area. My saying is that are all family here no matter what your A | When the College closed down Mr. I can always learn something new because background, your faith or your job is. Gentempo, the director at the time, asked you never know what God has planned for me to stay and be over the housekeeping Q | Why are activities important? me next. department of the new senior building. Years A | Activities are important because as Q | What do you like about your job? people get older their bodies and mind later, the Director called me in and told me A | Activity Directors are not just playing slow up. An activity helps them stay happy, that they were going open a nursing home. games with the residents we are more: we healthy and independent as they grow He asked me if I would be over the laundry are a Doctor, a Nurse, a shoulder to lean older. It’s important they remain active in and housekeeping department there. on, an ear to listen when no one else will, their daily lives, to continue to do the same Q | What was your role? and a heart healer when it is broken. We are activities as they have done all of their lives. A | Head Housekeeper for the College and God's chosen ones for this position. You find Activities help them stay independent as the Senior living building. Supervisor for the yourself being that person that looks forward they get older. I feel good inside knowing laundry and housekeeping department of the to seeing them every day. Some don’t have that I am able to keep them HAPPY. nursing home family close around them so they like to Q | What are your memories of the Q | How long were you with St. Dominic treat you as their family and I feel they are a Dominican College Village? part of my family too. The residents bring a A | Well, I must have been around 8 or 9 A | Over 30 years lot of joy to my job. It may it be a kind word, years old when my mother would bring me a smile or just a hug, but they make my day a and my sister here. I would go to visit the joyous day. science lab – it was very interesting to me Thank you! 12 ∙ St. Dominic Village | January 2015 RECOGNITION

Vu "Docker" Tran OF THE MONTH HR/Payroll ManagerEmployeeEmployee

Congratulations to HCSG employee Ms. Emma Dixon who is retiring after serving the St. Dominic Village EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR EMPLOYEE OF THE month november 2014 december community for over Yolanda Stewart Sr. Maria Hernandez Dorothia Denkins 20 years!

Board treats the staff to a cookout to celebrate our 4 star rating St. Dominic Approaches it's 40th Anniversary By Meg Pohodich, Director of Marketing s St. Dominic Village approaches we were in college!” family. She also fondly remembers all of the Aits 40th anniversary, we would like The Village has come a long way since friends she has made over the years, some to recognize some of our more tenured the community bathroom days. With who have already come and passed on. She residents. We have three residents that have the addition of assisted living and the remembers one of her first friends when she been part of the St. Dominic Village family Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, it is now moved to St. Dominic Village. “She kind of for over 22 years! Rose Stranahan, Martha a full continuum of care so that residents can eased me in. I still miss her, even though Parful, and Eleanor Tuffly have all had truly age in place. The retirement residence she’s been gone a long time.” She recalled front row seats to watch the changes across for priests, Pope John XXIII, is also an all of the hard work and time she spent campus over the past couple of decades, important part of our campus and mission, organizing and taking care of the resident including watching buildings come down and will continue with the new Archbishop library, which we are very much appreciative and go up. “When I moved in, Dorothy Hall Joseph A. Fiorenza Retirement Residence of! It is now too physically taxing to was brand new. The Nursing Home wasn’t (to be completed in 2015). volunteer in the library but she finds other here yet but we still had the old dorms from Mrs. Tuffly has referred three residents activities to fill her time. the College.” says Mrs. Stranahan. that have come to live at St. Dominic Village. We love and appreciate all of our St. Dominic Village sits on 27 acres at She says the Christmas party is our nicest residents and are honored that these three Holcombe and Almeda where the Sacred event and she enjoys it the most. “My family have has chosen to call St. Dominic Village Heart Dominican College used to be. has always enjoyed it, and the music adds so home for the past 22 years and hope there Dorothy Hall was built in 1982 and still much to it. The Christmas tree with the blue are many more to come!!! serves as a home for 35 independent living lights and the decorations outside this year residents and houses 14 Angel House rooms are great!” She has volunteered in the gift for patients (and their families) receiving shop and for the past 17 years has worked at treatment in the Texas Medical Center. the cashier in the dining room. “When I first came here, I lived in Sienna Of all the benefits of living at St. Dominic Hall, the old dorms,” says Mrs. Tuffly. “I used Village, Mrs. Stranahan enjoys the comfort the bathroom at the end of the hall, just like of knowing she is not a burden on her Martha Parful, Eleanor Tuffly, Rose Stranahan

St. Dominic Village | January 2015 ∙ 13 We are Family is not only a great song from 1979 by Sister Sledge, it’s also what takes place every day at St. Dominic Village. We are a true community, a family we are made up of residents, staff, board, committees, volunteers and the relatives who visit. We share a bond as we strive to ensure the dignity of each person as we care for elders with the compassion of Christ. The photos below represent months of parties, festivities and everyday life around campus. Thank you for your support and commitment to St. Dominic Village and to the retired priests, religious sisters and the men and women who call St. Dominic Village home. Family The next time you get an invitation – join us!

14 ∙ St. Dominic Village | January 2015 St. Dominic Village | January 2015 ∙ 15 WE ARE FAMILY CONT.

16 ∙ St. Dominic Village | January 2015 AROUND CAMPUS Independent and Assited Living By Lynn Gillespie, IL and AL Administrator

ew Year’s, Valentines, St. Patrick’s Christmas morn celebrated in the Office of Aging through the kindness of NDay --- a great way to start 2015 !! beautiful surroundings in Warren Kathy Bingham, Director of the Office of A Happy New Year to all and a big Chapel as well as the Assisted Living Aging and our Board Member. Thank Thank You to all who make our holidays and Rehabilitation and Nursing Center; you , Kathy. so special at the Village – At the center choirs with heavenly music, St. Dominic February will bring great fun at the of our celebrations, daily thanks to God Village Chorus performances, Open Valentine Dance on February 6th and for all our blessings, surrounding these houses, Santa’s arrival, scrumptious food, continue with Happy Hearts time – prayers --- lots of decorations, good food, time spent with friends and family….. many activities dealing with Valentine’s great programs, and, most importantly, all filled us with the joys of the season from crafts to trivia to parties to good our Village family … clergy, residents, without leaving our Village !! New movies to stay out of the cold! February families and friends. Year’s 2015 rang in with great fervor at 18th - Fat Tuesday – will bring our Mardi A quick glance back at Oct, Nov, and 7:00 p,m. – we beat everyone else to the Gras party where we will “Let the Good December – an outing to the Cathedral New Year’s toast for a good 2015 for all! times Roll” before beginning our Lenten of the Sacred Heart with a special tour Other spiritual activities include: Ave journey of prayer ….. led by Bishop Vincent Rizzotto. It was a Maria Rosary making group that is Although during the time of Lent, special presentation for he residents as supplying rosaries to many outside March will bring the thought of spring he was chair of the committee charged communities in need of them; The Serra so we will be planting, praying for warm with securing all the religious statuary Club Prayer Group who send up prayers weather, and on March 17th a time for for the cathedral. In October, Adoration for those in religious life also send cards celebrating St. Patrick’s Day by singing of the Blessed Sacrament included a to seminarians; Daily rosary prayed great Irish Songs having a celebration Holy Hour for Life; Blessing of the Pets especially for our residents in special where everyone is Irish for a ‘wee bit of on the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi. need; bible study and Communion time. The prayers service known as Lecio services. Please check out calendars online Divna was introduced to the residents We concentrated on programs with and join us when you can……… May 2015 and takes place on the 5th floor of good health tips for the wintertime; bring you and yours many blessings of the Tower in that peaceful setting. safety in your room as well as on weather good health, peace and joy. November brought us the celebration strewn roads; learned about laughing of All Saints’ and a beautiful All Yoga and the benefits of a good chuckle; Soul’s day service directed by Patricia Tai’Chi; Drumming for Health and lots As you wander through our many Egerman, Coordinator for Spiritual Care. of Trivia to keep us sharp. gardens, you’ll see lovely flowers Residents and Staff brought photos and On to 2015 with great enthusiasm… “welcoming you in every season, mementos and we honored our loved Who knows what the New Year holds so as do doves, pigeons and little ones in prayer and song. Our traditional we start off in the best way on January squirrels. It’s a pleasure to leisurely Veteran’s Day Mass and celebration was 1 by asking Mary the Mother of God, stroll through these unique well attended and our Veterans were on her feast day, to bless our future. magnificent, well-kept landscapes, rightly commended. Our Thanksgiving Plans we are making include………… new no matter in what kind of weather. Day Mass is a time for reflecting on exercise paths; pedometers for all who One sees many saintly statuettes, little hanging bird houses on many our blessings, and was followed by a would like them to walk the Village; species of trees and sparkling delicious traditional Thanksgiving redesigning our exercise room and Art fountains leading your way. Dinner complete with Turkey, carved in Room II; and perhaps a separate room This is always a happy, peaceful

the dining room, and all the trimmings. for showing movies. place. These become your gardens,

Advent Wreaths and Prayer services Our activity directors will be trained your house with its spacious“ dining reminded us to ‘Prepare Ye the Way to facilitate a program called “A Matter and recreational areas. You will be of the Lord’ and set the spirit of all of Balance” that “emphasizes practical living and loving it here at the Christmas celebrations to come strategies to reduce fear of falling and St. Dominic Village. together to form a bountiful receptacle increase activity levels” from National - Anna Maria Migliore for the love surrounding the birth of Council on Aging. We have this the Christ Child --- Mass … Vigil and opportunity through the Harris County

St. Dominic Village | January 2015 ∙ 17 AROUND CAMPUS Visiting Nursing Center The Wellness Center By Susan McDaniel, R. N., Wellness Manager - Independent and Assited Living Staion 3 and 4 uring October and November, indigestion, experience muscle and joint Dthe residents were receiving the aches or cramps, experience constipation n stations 3 and 4 our residents are our Flu Immunizations as a courtesy from and urine is a darker color than normal. Onumber 1 priority. The care provided the Village. We feel offering the Flu It is also important to dress for the cooler is highly individualized to meet the special Immunizations without charge to our weather and some tips are: needs of each of our residents. It is truly residents is a preventative measure to ward 1. Dress in layers so as to be comfortable heartwarming to witness the compassion off illness. We will continue to offer the Flu outdoors and indoors. that is carried by each of the professional Shots until Spring. 2. Make sure you cover your neck and caregivers here on stations 3 and 4 and it is If an effort to keep our residents enjoying chest area reflected in the smiling faces of our residents optimum health, we continue to offer 3. Wear heavy socks – wool is good and family members. The team strives each programs that address nutrition, safety, and 4. Always wear a hat and gloves with day to maintain the best possible quality well-being. Some tips to help with everyday going outside. of life for the residents here. Though with living during the upcoming months: To avoid slips and falls at any time, especially each new day there comes a new challenge, Hydration: It is very important to increase in bad weather: the staff on stations 3 and 4 are determined your intake of water during the months that 1. Wear shoes with non-skid surfaces and put forth nothing less than our best. The are cooler and more time is spent inside fit correctly SDVNH core values provide a strong in a heated environment. If you are used 2. If you use a walking cane, replace with foundation and stand to remind us of why to drinking a cup of coffee in the morning, tip with a new rubber tip so that it will we chose the healthcare profession. during these months, it is important to also not become slippery on a wet surface, add a glass of water. A good trick is to fill Station 3 provides a unique opportunity to 3. If you use a walking cane or walker care for retired priests who have dedicated glasses with water in the morning and be ‘sometimes’ be sure to take if with you sure you have finished the water by the their lives to God and the community. This is with the weather is bad even if you “don’t an experience that I will always hold dear. time you go to bed. Some signs that you think” you need it. Safety first !! are not getting enough water – known as We welcome our families to participate dehydration – is that you are more tired than in the care planning process each week in usual, have a headache, experience more order to ensure that our resident’s needs are being met. AED Defibrillators required By Robbie Bradford, R.N., Chief Nursing Officer Wish List t is a requirement of the Texas law and the regulatory department that oversees nursing Ifacilities to have in the facility automated AED’s installed. SDV has purchased and is in That each of our residents and their families the process of installing the AED’s and providing training to staff on campus should there have a merry Christmas and a safe and be a need to use an AED defibrillator. They are located throughout the campus in various happy New Year. locations. Station 3 and 4 Unit Manager, Automated external defibrillators, or AEDs, are a medical product that many people Debbie Trotter LVN have heard of, but might not know much about. An AED defibrillator can be used during sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). SCA generally occurs when a person’s heart stops beating due to ventricular fibrillation. When this happens the victim’s ventricles (the lower pumping chambers in the heart) begin beating erratically and out of rhythm. If a person’s What is Restorative? heart beat is not returned to normal quickly by being “defibrillated” their chances of By Renota Gaudet, Director of Restorative Care survival can drop 7 to 10 percent for every minute during the time their heart is not beating Dominic Village provides a normally. If the SCA is no treated within minutes, the person can die. Having an AED Continuum of Care. Under this defibrillator close at hand can make it possible for anyone trained in their use, including St. concept resident care services are aimed at non-medical personnel, to treat a heart attack victim and increase their chances of survival. assisting the resident to gain or maintain AEDs have been designed to make resuscitation easier for lay people, even those with functionality and self care, which is the ability no medical training, to perform. Adhesive electrodes that are connected to a computer to take care of themselves. within the automated defibrillator are placed on a person’s chest. Once they are attached The 1987 Omnibus Reconciliation Act to the SCA victim the computer checks the heart’s rhythm and calculates whether or not (OBRA) requires the facility provide to “each defibrillation is needed. If it is, a recorded voice will instruct the person administering resident the necessary care and services treatment to press the AED’s shock button. They are safe to use and are 100% accurate in to attain or maintain the highest practical evaluating the heart rhythm and determining whether a shock should be applied. physical, mental, and psychosocial well The AED's are located at each nurses station at the RNC, the main dining room of IL and being in accordance with the comprehensive Charlotte Hall. assessment and plan of care.” continued on page 19

18 ∙ St. Dominic Village | January 2015

CARE SERVICES What Does The Director of Restorative “ Be Proactive Not Reative Do? The role of Restorative Manager manages “ to Our Residents Needs the daily activities for the Restorative Care What Restorative Care Includes: program. ROM-Active and passive The role of Restorative Nursing Aide Eating or swallowing provides restorative care services under the Transfer direction of Rehab Program Manager and Amputation or prosthesis care clinical oversight Restorative Manager. Walking What are Restorative Care Services Communication • Assist or promote the resident’s ability to Dressing or grooming gain or maintain functionality Favorite Story: • Incorporate the Interdisciplinary Team’s Husband and wife: The husband was assessment and treatment of resident bed bound and his wife had a stroke. • Carried out under the direction of Nursing Her problem was she could not stand or (DON) walk. All she wanted was to stand by her • Provided by trained Certified Nursing husband’s bed lean over and give him a Assistant kiss. WOW. The day came with tears in • Have measurable goals and objectives my eyes when she stood, walked with a • Are evaluated regularly hemiwalker, leaned over his bedside and • May be provided in groups of 4 or less gave him a Kiss. The simple things in life. Renota Gaudet, Director Restorative

By Preeti Sawarbandhe, Director of Rehabilitation helped him tremendously for swallowing and What is Rehabilitation? speech. ehabilitation is the clinically driven treatment therapy and Speech therapy. We have 3 full We have a resident “B” who was in hospital Rwhere the goal is to achieve maximum time Physical Therapists 1 Physical Therapy due to infection. When she came to our facility, functional level of independence for the patient. Assistant, 1 full time Occupational Therapist, 2 was very weak unable to communicate, walk It is teamwork where Rehab team, Nursing team PRN Occupational therapists and 2 Certified due to weakness the nursing staff were using and Physicians collaborate to achieve the goals occupational therapy assistants, 1 full time a Lift to transfer her. After rehab for around for the patient and treating complex medical Speech Therapist and PRN staff to assist during 30 days she is able to transfer with minimal conditions. We evaluate, make individualized weekend treatments and evaluations. assist, able to walk again with roller walker care plan and treatment protocols, Discharge Tell us about outpatient therapy with assist. She is able to communicate better planning to attain the highest level of Rehab We provide outpatient therapy for in-house as the speech therapist used vita-stim for her potential and be able to return to prior level of residents of St. Dominic village Assisted living speech and swallowing which helped her living before the hospital stay. and independent living only at this time. tremendously. She is highly motivated and has We treat the medical conditions like but not How can someone participate positive attitude towards life. limited to stroke, musculoskeletal/orthopedic disorders, traumatic brain injury, neurological All therapy treatments are physician ordered. She said “it was a miracle”. impairment, spinal cord injury, Cardio- In order to participate in therapy we need Somebody has quoted: pulmonary disorders, Amputations, post surgical physician orders or script that the therapy Think about how far you have come patients. services are needed or warranted. Insurances are verified before we start the evaluations and “TODAY” and how much farther you will go What are the various types of equipment treatments. “TOMMORROW”- unknown used Quotes from residents “The body achieves what the mind believes” We use lot of manual therapy (hands on “I was able to return home because of Rehab” — unknown approach) on the hi-low automatic mat table, “They do excellent job” Seeing the finish line and have strength and balance boards, exercise balls, SCIFIT bikes, “ It was a great experience” therabands, weights, parallel bars, standing faith to achieve it—is what we do!! frame, different kind of modalities like but not Any story that stands out Preeti Sawarbandhe, MPT limited to Interferential Interferential current, We have a resident “A” who was bed ridden Director of Rehabilitation Transcutaneous electrical Muscle stimulation, due to neurological deficit. The therapists Ultrasound (used for Pain management, worked on his sitting and standing balance, muscle stimulation, increase blood flow, reduce transfers, used the modality, all kinds of edema) Hot packs for Pain management therapeutic activities, pre gait training. Currently and strengthening. Therapeutic peg boards, is able to stand for atleast 30 min in standing Therapeutic putty and all functional daily living frame, able to take 2-3 steps with the help of activities with training of assistive aids/devices if placement of the foot and therapists verbal needed. and physical cues. He is able to transfer with 1 person assist. ST also worked with him with vita- What type of therapy do you offer stim (modality) and different techniques which We provide Physical therapy, Occupational

St. Dominic Village | January 2015 ∙ 19 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID 2401 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77021 Houston, TX ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED Permit No. 2402

St. Dominic Village BOARD OF DIRECTORS Frank Rizzo, Chairman Ben C. Mazzara, Vice-Chairman Bernard L. Hebinck, Treasurer Bichlan N. Thai, Secretary Katherine Bingham John M. Connolly Tom Daly James J. Davis Aimee D. Garcia, M.D. David Hessel Steven G. Marget Sr. Carol Mayes, O.P. Phung Ngo-Burns Rev. Thomas F. Rafferty Roger Sahni Most Rev. George Sheltz Patrick J. Studdert James A. Watts, Jr.

ADVISORY BOARD John Michael Griffin Suzanne Lehman Johnson Judith Raines

Amy Shields, CEO

Produced by the Development Department Designed by Ari Wong-Ruiz