Press & News affecting Independent Living on Long Island
Telecare TV Interview: Msgr. Jim Vlaun & Karen Danca-Smith and Paul Wasser CEO of Dominican Village.
Legislative Resolution
NY Senate Open Legislation - Commending Gerard F. Scavelli upon the occasion of his designation for special recognition.Learn More
First NYAHSA Member to Receive New Assisted Living Licensure
The NYAHSA Center congratulates Dominican Village, the first member of NYAHSA to receive licensure as an Assisted Living Residence (ALR). Dominican Village, in Amitytville, N.Y., is sponsored by the Sisters of Saint Dominic. "The assisted living licensure is the culmination of many years of hard work toward recognizing that assisted living in New York is a major component in the continuum of care for our elderly," said President and CEO. Dominican Village’s accomplishment was the result of the hardworking sisters, who were diligent during the application process, he said. Given that Dominican Village already had been licensed as enriched housing, not much has changed for the residents. They continue to receive the same quality services in a warm, home-like environment. The new licensure and the more commonly used term "assisted living" may make it easier for consumers to use long term care insurance policies. The Assisted Living Reform Act was passed in 2004, with ALR regulations implemented in March 2008. At this writing, nine entities statewide have received licensure. The Department of Health is reviewing approximately 270 applications for licensure, and many more organizations likely will receive licenses in the coming year.
Multicultural Month
Senior residents at Dominican Village experienced a month filled with multicultural activities and events. The month included a hot and sizzling experience of Latin America. The Latin Dance Show with Luis D. Dance Company had residents captivated with their hip moving Dance performance. The Dance Company shared a synopsis and history of each dance performed. Seniors not only enjoyed participating in Latin Dance lessons but also had an opportunity to taste a well know dessert called flan which is similar to crème brulee.
Dominican Village Seniors Dance to the Beat of Steel Drums
Senior residents at Dominican Village experienced the second of a series of multicultural activities and events. This event featured a celebration of Caribbean cultures, including a performance by the Jamaican steel drum band “Hearts of Steel” and an assortment of Caribbean foods. The band played a musical variety and gave a brief history of the steel drums.
Festival of Lights
Dominican Village , a not-for-profit, non-sectarian, Independent and Assisted Living Retirement Community, recently celebrated its annual Festival of Lights ceremony. The ceremony, which took place in Helen Butler Hall, began with a prayer service to commemorate Hanukkah and Christmas. Hundreds of bulbs were lit to honor and remember loved ones. The evening continued with a holiday sing-along, lead by Gabe Abbinante, as hot chocolate, and gourmet cookies were served. The event was well attended by family and friends of Dominican Village residents and staff. The evening’s program was one of reflection, appreciation, love, honor, and praise. All children in attendance anxiously awaited Santa’s arrival and then received a candy cane and a photo with Mr. Claus. This event was truly a memorable occasion for everyone, and a wonderful time to gather together, and get into the holiday spirit. Thank you, to all our volunteers, especially the students from St. John the Baptist High School, in West Islip.
Foxy Fran Celebrates a Century
Amityville, NY, December 7, 2007 - Frances Misso, or "Foxy Fran" as she is known to friends, recently celebrated her 100th birthday at Dominican Village. Born in Brooklyn, Frances has lived in Queens and various areas of NYC throughout her life. She now resides at Dominican Village, where she has been a resident for the past 15 years. Family, friends and staff all worked together to throw a surprise party to celebrate this momentous occasion. Frances enjoyed the party with her sisters, nieces and nephews, who all contributed with speeches and their favorite memories of her lifetime. Despite her age, Frances continues to be active and enjoyes writing poetry, which she strives to share with fellow residents and friends.
Veterans Day Tribute
Amityville, NY, November 12, 2007 - On Friday, November 9, 2007, 26 Dominican Village resident Veterans were honored at the William Rall Elementary School in Lindenhurst. The celebration was planned by the principal, Mr. Epstein, the PTA, teachers and students. After enjoying a delicious catered lunch, the Veterans were presented with a beautiful cake, inscripted with a heartfelt message from the school. The 1st through 5th graders then gave a special performance, which included singing patriotic songs and quizzing the residents on "Presidential Trivia." The residents were able to share their stories and memorabilia with the students. Each resident received a giant card of thanks, an award, and a button.