Glenn Slaby

Articles published in My Daily Visitor

February 15^th, 2008 Friday

 A Sad Power

Our anger, a raw, explosive emotion creating situations from which we may never fully extricate our self is an unfortunate part of the human condition. Today’s Old Testament reading discusses that evil acts can erase ones accomplishments. Does not anger do the same? What do we foremost remember of a person – temper or deeds? Once damage is done the past can never be fully restored.  Satan enjoys exploiting our weaknesses.

As the Good News states, anger results from and can lead to other non-desirable conditions of this life. Jealously, envy, bigotry, etc., can become intertwined with anger. My condition can arouse these feelings as I see others functioning in ways I no longer can. Give it, bring it to the altar, Our Lord wants it for Himself and for us to live.

I pray I can lay this root cause of much despair at your feet, Lord.

February 16^th, 2008 Saturday                     

The Most Difficult Love

The Gospel continues with rules on being a good disciple. As with yesterday’s, another is explored today, but let’s not forget those not preached from the pulpit. Our Lord, enhances some, rejects others. They are there to read and followed.

We must love thy enemies; loving our neighbors is no longer enough. How difficult to accept, then and now. Are we to love, pray and care for souls who willingly follow fascism, racial supremacy, infanticide? Those who kill civilians residing in total innocence? The KKK, AlQueda. Maybe it shows how far we must travel to be true disciples.

I believe many can and have been turned.  Their past freely admonished. Care and pray accomplishes much. Remember, the greatest song ever written – Amazing Grace – was composed by one who dealt in the trade of human flesh.

Lord, where I am blind, show me where and how love can heal.

February 17^th, 2008 Sunday

A Deep Darkness, An Unbelievable Light

Fear. It drives deep into our bones, removing all the hopes and comforts our lives may enjoy. Timothy states we must bear such with God’s given strength. The Transfiguration is reinforcement for the darkness to come.

To me the Transfiguration is the most beautiful of all the Luminous Mysteries. Unlike the casting of the demons and cattle into the sea, here we envision rays of brightness and purity, concluding as God’s voice booms with approval and satisfaction. In our own dark times would it not be wonderful to receive our own Transfiguration. My wife seems to be one of those who are able to accept many of life’s valleys thru faith in the Lord’s way. Maybe for the rest of us it is there, we just have to look deeper to find it.

Lord, can dark times be avoided? I believe not, so please, strengthen my soul.

February 18^th, 2008 Monday

 Human Traits to Pass Over

 Some say that the Gospel of Luke is the most beautiful book ever written. Are you, like me, putting off, procrastinating until when? Every act of joy and enjoyment initially started with some effort or chore. Like a new dish to be tasted, some small effort must be undertaken. An unknown must be quantified. I’m certainly glad I didn’t refuse chocolate for some silly reason.

We hear today, in Luke, three simple lines to cease in condemnation and judgment. How easy it is to glance at someone and place an arbitrary standard on them. (How easy this lapse from judgment of the one can carry to all of the same kind/family). Is this how we want Jesus to judge our lives? There’s more than what meets the human eye. Open thy heart, remove the beam.

Lord, have Divine patience with me in the recognition, redemption and correction of my faults.

February 19^th, 2008 Tuesday

Every Day Advice

“Lead by example.” “Do as I say not as I do.” We are familiar with these phrases. They survive generations because of their underlying truth. As a father and husband, I try to follow the former, but the latter sometimes applies. The Lord knows my weaknesses. He wants us to recognize them, and at least try to improve. We must be aware of how our behavior affects so many. Our actions can be such a wonderful light for those around us.

Isaiah states how one should behave and Jesus admonishes those given the responsibilities of leadership but do not heed the Prophets. In only a few other places does our Lord’s anger compare. They have miserably failed in their mission in life.  Do they not understand what’s at stake? Do we know our responsibilities?

Correcting old habits are difficult Lord; help ease this path to Your perfection

February 20^th, 2008 Wednesday

Patience, Frustration and Serving

Divine patience. That is definitely what Jesus has. Today, He tells his disciples of His imminent suffering and death and the next verse they argue who shall sit at the place of honor. Not only are they talking on a physical level, but still fail to grasp His teachings and love.

We’ve all experienced frustration, especially in dealing with children. And that is what the apostles were and who we are as God’s creation – children who must obey and love God as God loves us.

There can be so much pleasure out of serving. Our culture of having, degenerates these wonderful acts. Personally, doing the little things for others can be energizing. It creates wonderful feelings of satisfaction and accomplishment for a God who requires so little  – just love each other.

Guide me, gently, by Thy will toward others, rejecting the urgings of our culture.

February 21^st, 2008 Thursday (St. Peter Damian, bishop & doctor of the church)

With the human condition’s many imperfections, there are times when we lapse into disrepair, where discipline and intention are lost. For individuals and their institutions, these are times for someone to come to the forefront and reestablish the goals and purpose. Circa 1000, our church had Fr. Peter Damian. I have my wife. We must be thankful for having the right person coming at the right time. God provides, we must ask and desire.

Jeremiah, warns us in today’s reading about the perishable ness of earthly things, but also shows us the strength and comfort of Faith, freely offered. This is something I must keep reminding myself – the quick fixes of today and this world exist only in the now. Our society is like the products it makes – disposable. Remember your soul. Remember the goal.

Lord, I thank You and know someone will come into my life when needed.

End

Articles published in My Daily Visitor

February 8^th, 2008 Friday St Jerome Emiliani & St. Josephine Bakhita

Freeing the Soul

Today, we celebrate two very different saints, both of whom faced imprisonment of body and mind. Only through this prison was their spirit able to grow. As a prisoner of war in the early sixteenth century, one was forced to find inner meaning, finally learn how to pray. About 1875, St. Josephine was sold into slavery at seven years of age. Childhood, adolescence, body stolen from her.  Even her name was a sad play on her life – Bakhita means fortunate. While in the prison of slavery she was drawn to Catholicism.

We are all prisoners. Our individual crosses bear heavy upon our bodies and soul. We must find a way to release ourselves/soul and seek deeper harmony with our God – a God who knows our struggles. Remember we have our faith, family and friends.

There are many trials ahead Lord, please be with me. Let me not forget you.

February 9^th, 2008 Saturday                       

Letting Go, Let God

Leaving everything behind. Imagine that. Today’s Gospel tells of the ‘Resurrection’ of Matthew. It is just that. As with all who follow, it’s a new beginning. Death of the familiar, the false tapestries. Cast these off or suffer the pain of serving two masters.

I see elderly parents holding on to the past temporal, trying to control their lives. (Who really has control?) With my mental illness, I too must relinquish, everyday, the old patterns of a prior life and seek other pathways, a new resurrection of mind and spirit.

We must let go, pass through this new door, for a new life. Accept. Grieve the past, fulfilled or unfulfilled. Seek this ascension. Seek resurrection or live with bitterness. A new spirit is waiting, with new tasks and responsibilities. Remember the bigger picture.

May I clearly here your call, Lord and follow the intended way.

February 10^th, 2008 Sunday

That First Step

The readings today focus on temptation and sin. After years of preparation as the child of Mary and Joseph, Our Lord faces his first of many recorded trials. Training is complete with baptism from John and Fatherly blessing/approval. It is time to face the devil – alone. These temptations focus on the human desires. Is our spirit strong enough to overcome the weaknesses of the flesh?

This purification with presumed anxiety was necessary. The first step and test had to be taken. We all have and must continue with the first step. With illness the first step out of bed may be the most difficult. Throughout the day we must apply the discipline learned. Has our training been adequate? Do we have the blessings of our Father? Is the spirit stronger than the flesh?

Lord, please instill within, strength of faith, will and confidence to face my trials.

February 11^th, 2008 Monday Our Lady of Lourdes

 A Warning and Chances

One this date in 1858, Our lady made the initial of many appearances to St. Bernadette  Soubirous. In similarity to other apparitions, The Virgin was humble in front of the most humble of us. At Lourdes, penance was stressed. In today’s Gospel, Matthew writes of the final judgment of nations. Together, they offer a road map for all and a way to return to this desired path thru reconciliation.

Mary appearing to us with humility and respect, knows, understands our struggles and faults. All stray. He offers us the sacrament to return. We must make use of these tools freely given to us. Remember, His forgiveness in unbounded. Their hearts were pierced for us. He does want one thing in return: love Him and others. That’s that only requirement. Isn’t it fantastic.

Lord, I know what you expect of us, but please be my guide with loving patience.

February 12^th, 2008 Tuesday

An Instruction Manual

Today, Our Lord teaches all the greatest prayer. There are many types of prayer, of petition, thanksgiving, the Rosary. Much has been written. Our Catechism offers a wonderful summary. We read our driver’s manual, cook books, how to books, but how many have read the instructions of our faith. Don’t let the title and terminology of doctrines hold you back. It is for you and I. Ask you priest for the latest version or a summary and just browse through. It is not a novel, so read any part that pleases. Inquiry. It can be good for the soul.

Remember, in our first breath of The Lord’s Prayer, we speak its most important word: “OUR”, in every language, in every culture, in every time we are united by Our one true Father.

I pray, all that I read fills my soul with fruit for life and faith.

February 13^th, 2008 Wednesday

Good Fortune for the Enemy

In Jonah, we read that the enemy of the believers believed. Nineveh, the enemy of Israel was saved. But the prophet wanted pain upon those he abhorred. When fortunate things happen to those we distaste, how are to react? Human traits as sour as jealousy, envy and vindictiveness are part of us. They are part of our world and the mystery of God’s actions. We must accept and follow the words given to us. They repented and welcomed God into their hearts and God welcomed them into His fold. Who are we to judge?

We should welcome the fortune of others. For through this we may see God’s handiwork and appreciate our good fortune as well. There is more comfort beyond what sooths the flesh. I must see this in my time of mental pain.

Please, Lord, in times of my darkness, direct me by your beacon of light.

February 14^th, 2008 Thursday Sts. Cyril and Methodius

Simplicity

Two brothers, tied by blood and faith are honored today. They may be considered minor saints, but whose minor in the eyes of Our Lord. We all achieve glory and  no one accomplishes anything alone. There are unnamed friends and helpers, always. We never know whose paths we cross – some minor saint may have or will cross our path, benefiting from our assistance. We all can aid the savior in some way.

Keeping it simple. Our Gospel today, records a sermon by Jesus part of which became known as The Golden Rule. Like many things our Savior taught us, much appears to be common sense, but no one before has ever put Love so simply.

To want from the Lord, we must go to Him. He may provide, but the effort must be our initiative.

Lord, may my actions always be for the benefit of You and Your loved ones.

End

Articles published in My Daily Visitor

February 1^st, 2008 Friday

Growth

A parable for the followers then and now. Another story that crosses not only time but cultures as well. From one millennium to the next, His words are understandable to all whose ears and minds are open. Technological changes abound us. So much is different between generations. So much is obsolete, quickly forgotten by our children. The new is more confusing and the old gadgets lose their meaning and uses/purposes. His parables are understood by all, beyond all the boundaries of space and time.

Today’s parable with the underlying message of growth beyond our understanding, is for us not to question, but realize that as the wheat, we will never fully comprehend the why’s and how’s. The deeper science goes, the more that still remains unfathomable. Trust in the harvester, the sower, our Lord.

Lord, help me to accept my limitations and trust in the sower.

February 2^nd, 2008 Saturday  Feast of The Presentation of the Lord    

 The Merits of Faith

In today’s reading we have the foundations necessary for faith to flourish. Obligation and duty are represented with the sacred ritual of the purification of the Jewish mother. The consecration of the firstborn son to the Lord was also a requirement, but this did not need to be done at the temple. As the Savior, there had to be another sign of what is to come – foretelling of the Joy, Glory, Light and Suffering – the mysteries of the Holy Rosary.

Simeon and Anna (further on in Luke’s Gospel) represent what some, including me, lack today. My illness creates doubt and worry in much of what I do. Imagine their dedication, sacrifices, discipline and trust that build faith. The simple pleasures voluntarily denied. The enormous responsibility to themselves, others and the Lord.

Lord, please instill in me these great attributes of your holy Servants Simeon and Anna.

February 3^rd, 2008 Sunday

 Acceptance and Accepted

 The blessedness of the Beatitudes given to His apostles, to us – all people, is a magnificent prayer, a summit to be reached but never fully acclaimed. We are the weak, the poor, the ones to whom our Savior looks. Has this ever happened in human history, in any religion where God seeks us – the wretched? With my doubts, my insecurities, I certainly belong to those whom Jesus is speaking.

Only through acceptance is there growth. I want to belong to this fraternity who recognize ones fallibilities. This can be wonderful and serene in accepting who we really are – for Jesus welcomes all who do. The Beatitudes are for us seeking the pleasure of obtaining unobtainable goals – the pleasure of climbing to perfection that can only be reached after this life.

Let me see myself, Lord, as I truly am and what I can be.

February 4^th, 2008 Monday

 Power, A Saved Soul and Rejection

 The images presented in today’s Gospel are very stark and slightly disturbing. These few verses tell of tombs, deserted hillsides and darkness. Along with multiple demons controlling a soul which no human can save (someone’s son caught in the devils web. How could this have occurred?). They’re powerful, breaking the strongest chains made by man, and the swine – unclean, therefore a Gentile herd and village – then rejection of our Lord.

Two thousand swine, two thousand demons? Jesus fools them, gives the demons their desired swine to possess and then drowns them. Our Savior’s power is overwhelming with this huge sacrifice to save one human soul. Jesus is then told to leave. Is the village not accepting the loss of the swine/food for a soul? The Gentiles are not ready to be saved.

Lord, help me not to err in choosing the material pleasures over you.

February 5^th, 2008 Tuesday Saint Agatha Virgin and Martyr

Those Who Came Before

The early heroes of our faith, many are unknown, we owe them for the Church of today. Like all things constructed, strong supports are needed for the walls and floors to follow. From the cornerstone, Peter, lives were sacrificed that became the ground floor. These early disciples included St. Agatha (d.251?).

Take the self-centeredness, material greed of our culture, add to that slavery, paganism, etc. and you have the Roman Empire. The hardships we face today are nothing compared to those pathfinders of our faith. Think of the struggles facing these sacrificed ones. We have the forefathers to exemplify, apparitions of the Virgin Mary, countless saints and miracles to remind us of our duty. How do we stand up to the pressures of our culture? How do we measure to these early saints and martyrs?

Lord, I pray that I may be strong enough to support those who follow.

February 6^th, 2008 Ash Wednesday

The Beginning towards Fulfillment

First sorrow, then hope. First the fast and then the feast. First the recognition that we are nothing but the earth from which we came – without the Savior to give us soul, the center of our individual spirituality. Ash Wednesday is the beginning of the end to fulfillment of the scriptures. We must recognize and accept who we really are and to whom this is owed.

This day signifies the beginning of preparation for the immense sorrow to follow our days of penance. Many faiths have such a time of cleansing. They all recognize that we are all impure in some way.  The body, to the earth with which it must return, and the soul are far from the perfection we and our Lord wish us to have. Remember, joy is the final outcome.

I pray Lord, that my penances may be worthy of Your Grace.

February 7^th, 2008 Thursday

Paths to Life

In the words for today, Moses laid the groundwork and our Savior brings us a step closer to what we must do and become. As AA says we must accept our powerlessness in this world. Accept, in this world the trappings it offers us, is the way of escaping the truths in front of us. The chronological world we live projects many false images of pleasure, responsibilities, wealth, etc.

We must accept our weaknesses in our selves and others. We cannot do everything, but to deny our limitations is to deny humanness, our Lord, the faith. Do not be fooled with the electronics pervading us.

The ground rules are laid out before us; a path well worn by those how followed. Just imagine how visible this path would be if more listened.

I pray Lord, that as a community, we all may join together and follow.

End

Published in Mental Health News

“Because I believe in the Bible, which teaches to love and welcome the immigrant and because… I’m an American.”- . What wondrous words by our Cardinal Dolan in regards to the immigration crisis in this country and in the world. (May 12^th issue). A statement that should be placed in front of every church, for we have an obligation and duty as Catholics to assist all those within our means for their needs. We cannot chose only those words of Jesus that pleases us.

We must go forward or our society will eventually fail. Representatives running for office today seem to forget the needs of the least, those who cannot defend themselves in all stages of life. We must step beyond our fears and see how shallow and harmful words and Un-Christian actions can be. The Cardinal’s statement brings hope and faith that can light the way for one person, one family at a time. It is a pity that more cannot be helped. It is a tragedy that so many fail, so many lives lost because of one’s place and time of birth. We all have an obligation and shall be judged by our actions and inactions within our received gifts. Our actions today can effect so many generations to come – hopefully constructively.

#214

Published in Mental Health News

I both enjoyed and applaud your article on the joint recognition of the ADL and our Cardinal’s receipt of the special Award. It is delightful to see our youth of different faiths gathering together, learning and experiencing what other beliefs offer on our journey toward God. Every faith provides something one can learn for their own individual journey.

Judaism, the root of our Catholic faith (and of course all Christianity), clearly has so much that supports and confirms our sacred rituals and prayers. I hope that this sharing of faiths can be done on a parish and/or diocesan level where adults like myself can gladly participate, experience and learn on our mysterious journey.

Published in Mental Health News

It was very gratifying reading about our Church’s proactive policy in the fight against the stigma of mental illness and the fight to improve our lives. Too many people hide their sufferings, too many are ashamed of this illness which is not of their making. I have witnessed this stigma and I am able to write about my experiences, live with mental illness because of the strong support and foundations (which most consumers do not possess) in my life one of which is the Church. My parish has done much to assist and enable me and others in our struggles to move forward. We would like to be seen as individuals with mental illness not as mentally ill individuals.

Today, to admit to mental illness may mean being labeled for a lifetime as abnormal, dysfunctional even feared without concern and reflection of the individual’s condition, their abilities, and their capabilities. Minimizing, erasing the stigma and there will be less of us who suffer seeking ways to ease the pain through self-medicating (alcohol and drugs) and isolation for a disease that’s not of their making; that is no one’s fault. Imagine the peer pressure, the ridicule, the teasing our school children will face every day if they are “exposed” as having mental illness. What family is really prepared to face such challenges? The pain and anguish for those who suffer and their families are awful enough without adding stigma, ignorance and peer pressure into the mix. But it does not have to be this way. While there are no absolute “cures” for mental illness, lives will be better, much better.

Published in the Westchester Guardian, February 2015

The New Rochelle Public Library (NRPL) https://www.nrpl.org. Main Library 1 Library Plaza, New Rochelle, 10801. Tele: 914-632-7878. Huguenot Children’s Library Branch 794 North Avenue, New Rochelle, Tele: (914) 632-8954. Chartered in 1894, this library has been serving New Rochelle in its own building since 1979.
Our Mission: The New Rochelle Public Library is a community resource that seeks to improve the life of every citizen in our city. It is dedicated to encouraging learning in all stages of life, to protecting intellectual freedom and to providing fair and equal access to information.

General Events. Ongoing activities include performances in their own 138 seat theater named after the late actor Ossie Davis. The wide variety of entertaining events occur on a regular basis and are sponsored by the Friends of the New Rochelle Public Library, There is a suggested donation of two dollars per adult per event.   Films, based on a particular theme are also shown in the theater with “Surround-Sound”. Discussions usually follow. Also occurring in the theater are lectures and author visits. In the ‘hopefully arriving soon’ summer there is International dance and music representing regional talents.

Many smaller events occur in other locations throughout this modern three story building. These include book discussions meeting every third week in the conference room. Venues also include Craft Workshops on Saturdays focusing on knitting, crocheting, etc. from September to June. Computer classes covering a large spectrum for beginners to those who just want to brush up on their skills – also free.  For those who enjoy reading words imprinted on paper, The Friends of the Library have a monthly book sale and in the lobby there are always a few hundred books for sale all at bargain prices. Don’t forget to check out the bookstore open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:00 pm to 3:00 p.m., and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., except for Book Sale days.

Occurring every spring and fall is the biweekly Current Events discussion led by Dr. Vincent Bonelli, Professor of History and Political Science, Bronx Community College of the City University of New York. And keep an eye out for those How-to seminars and classes. The League of Women Voters sponsor and host debates, classes and conferences through “Coffee and Conversations” get-togethers on Friday mornings, from January to May and September to November. They also host debates between candidates for City’s School Board of Education and the library’s Board of Trustees. Again, all free.

 Programs and Services: Further contributions to our great community of New Rochelle and Westchester, the Library offers English as a Second Language (ESL) classes offered by Westchester Community College. The class is free but textbook purchase is $35. There are four different levels of intensity.

AARP free tax help is occurring now on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9am to 2 pm and ending in mid-April. This program has trained volunteers from the Tax Counseling for the Elderly program and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance. The County Clerk’s Mobile Office has staff that visits the library assisting residents with requests such as applying for permits, passport applications and confirming the licenses of contractors.

For those unable to come to the library, homebound services are offered through home delivery of materials every three weeks. Want to know more about caregiving and assisting loved ones, the Westchester County Department of Senior Services – Family Caregiver Support Program, maintains a Caregiver’s Resource Center on the third floor. Finally, there is the Senior Benefits Help Center where assistance can be garnered in areas such as Medicare health and prescriptions, HEAP, food stamps, minor home repairs, tax relief, etc. The Senior Benefits Information Center at the BTOP Help Center on the second floor is free, confidential with access to material via hardcopy and online.  Just drop in every Friday from 10am to 1pm.

Another free offering are Family Museum Passes available to Library cardholders who are residents of New Rochelle, over the age of 18 and in good standing. The museums participating include the Bruce Museum, the Children’s Museum of Art, The Children’s Museum of Manhattan, El Museo del Barrio, the Guggenheim and Hudson River Museums, the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum, and the Museum of the City of NY.

One of my favorite areas is The Bliss Music Center located on the third floor, with its collection nearly 4,000 titles ranging from Jazz, Spanish, pop, musicals, movies and rock, country, spiritual, and folk and more! Not too sure what you want, the Center is equipped with Listening Stations that allow patrons to preview their music before making a borrowing decision. For downloading (Free!) music, other audios and videos, their computers have selected resources allowing patrons to record on their “I-Pod or MP3 compatible device, including iPhone® and music-enabled mobile phones.)

Other online listening includes the “Strachwitz Frontera Collection of Mexican American Music, digitized from largest repository of Mexican and Mexican-American vernacular recordings in existence”. “Fifty seconds of any recording is available.” The Belfer Cylinders Digital Connection, provides “online access to digital audio files of cylinders in the Belfer Audio Laboratory and Archive at Syracuse University. Belfer’s cylinder collection includes over 22,000 cylinders, 12,000 of which are unique titles.” Cylinder Preservation and Digitization Project, contains “audio from the turn of the 20th century digitized from the earliest commercial sound recording format, cylinders. Popular music, early jazz and blues, opera and classical music from University of California, Santa Barbara, Davidson Library, Department of Special Collections.” Finally, The Global Music Archive, is a multi-media reference archive and resource center for traditional, popular, music, song and dance of Africa and the Americas. There is so much to experience and discover, why limit ourselves to what is popular, but look deeper, experiment, learn and enjoy.

Exhibits: Local Organizations including the New Rochelle Art Association, The New Rochelle Council on the Arts and Our Children, Our Artists promote exhibits at the library’s Lumen Winter Gallery. From fine art to crafts, outstanding works in various are nearly always on display.

New Rochelle Art Association exhibiting since 1914 presents four exhibitions each year. New Rochelle Council on the Arts, founded in 1975 by New Rochelle City Council, “is an arts advocacy organization that stimulates and encourages the study and presentation of the performing and fine arts.” Our Children, Our Artists, since 1980, promotes art created by children in New Rochelle City School District schools have exhibited since 1980 works by school children. Other times there are shows by local artists, cubs and cooperatives even by individual artists.

Courses and Classes. I could incorporate all that partakes in the classes for children, teens and adults into an article unto itself.  Preschool programs and other children activities can also occur at the Huguenot Children’s library.  For preschool there are Bouncing Babies, Nursery Rhyme Time, Toddler TimePre-School Story Time, and more for all the preschool age ranges. For children slightly older you have Vacation Week Programs, Seasonal Programs and Events and International Dance and Music etc. The library also presents Homework help, Fun web sites, the summer reading game, resources for parents and Spanish resources.

For teens you have Anime & Gaming Clubs, Seasonal Programs and Summer Reading Programs and Activities. “When school’s out during the summer, the library offers a cool retreat for free workshops—including cooking, dance, films, and other programs suggested by and for teens, entering grades 6–12. All are free and available on a drop-in basis, usually after 4:00 pm.”

The teen environment besides the above programs include Real life issues, suggested reading and writings, web connections, college and test prepping and the Science cafe. The college and test prep web connection includes access to 14 other sites and the real life section offers connection to over 20 sites dealing with sexual issues to smoking, drugs, eating disorders and pregnancy, suicide and family issues to drive, and money. It shouldn’t be missed by any teen or parent of a teen.

Adult programs covers all events discussed earlier, i.e. concerts, films, lectures and author visits,  as well as web connections which includes ‘Good Reads’ for all ages containing more than 20 e-newsletter and interviews with more than 1,500 authors. One can join or always start their own book club. And don’t overlook the Spanish resources.  A little extra effort may make our reading a lot more enjoyable.

For adults, teen and children there are courses and classes offered throughout the week and month. Don’t miss these various opportunities.

For Your Business. I need to mention the business resources and databases that are available: the Handelman Business Opportunity Center, Business & Company Research containing ‘AtoZdatabases’, ‘Morningstar-In.Library Access’, Newspaper and Magazine Articles databases, Career Help with Learning Express, First Find and WEBS Counseling services. Business and Employment workshops include SCORE Free Small Business Help. Again, should I dare say – it’s free! 

As with all libraries please see so much that is offered on their web sites. And I didn’t even mention the volume and selection of books.

#1494

Published in the Westchester Guardian, July 2015

“If you can’t feed a hundred people, then feed just one.” Mother Theresa.

“I have no family nor support group, so I must be as self-reliant as I can to avoid institutionalization. MOW (Meals-on-Wheels) fills a critical need by providing me nutritious meals. The volunteers are caring, concerned Samaritans whom I count as good friends and I await their cheerful daily visits.” Anonymous Recipient (Both quotes from MOW brochures.)

Every morning, seven days a week, without fanfare, a small group of dedicated volunteers, quietly and unheralded deliver hot lunches to our homebound men and women of New Rochelle.

The Meals-on-Wheels (MOW) of New Rochelle “client census has remained relatively constant over the last few years averaging about forty-five on weekdays and twenty-five on weekends.” Volunteers, using their own cars, number from fifty to sixty per week, each basically covering a specific day and clientele. The cost of a hot lunch is $4, an optional cold sandwich delivered concurrently, for a meal later in the evening cost $1.80. No one is ever turned away and fees can be based on a sliding scale. But what they really deliver is not sustenance of food but the sustenance of neighborly love and companionship. For a few precious moments the company of others eases the daily pains life offers.  Most are widows or widowers. Unfortunately, for the last few years they have run at a decreasing monetary deficit. (All quotes by Executive Director, Office of the Aging, City of New Rochelle, Ms. Phillis Maucieri, unless stated otherwise.)

The day begins just before 11am with the pick-up of meals prepared at Montefiore Hospital, New Rochelle. Each volunteer gathers his or her stack of trays of specific meals for specific clients. Using their own vehicles, gas and unreimbursed mileage, they are greeted cheerfully, graciously and gratefully. The most difficult part of delivering this generosity is saying good bye, as time, the greatest restraint of all our human endeavors inflicts itself in our physical plane of life. However, the good, sharp-eyed experience of the volunteer, within this limited space of compliance, observes this limited world of the sometimes neglected recipient. They talk, discuss family relations, events in their lives. “Most important, the volunteers note the client’s well-being and promptly report any change to the MOW office who will notify appropriate parties.”

Volunteers are the heart and soul of Meals-on-Wheels. Without them, there is no MOW.  “They are a link in the chain between MOW and other services and organizations, reporting issues to MOW supervisors who then report to the appropriate agencies, family members and even 911.” They are the eyes and ears, the first line of defense, when someone is not functioning correctly. Services are provided 24/7.  Only three days have been missed this winter of 2014/15 due to inclement weather.

The extended family living under one roof is rare in our society due to a sometimes cruel economic system where housing for large families are not economically applicable. The lives of current generations, through no fault of their own, find themselves unable to assist older and/or disabled family members. Events just seem to occur that physical distance, as well as economic and social constraints detach ourselves from others.

Forty individuals served daily in a city the size of New Rochelle certainly does not seen like a large number, but, “for over 30 years (since 1983) the volunteers of Meals-on-Wheels of New Rochelle have delivered more than 300,000 hot nutritious meals to our neighbors.” Now that is an impact that should not go unnoticed nor unappreciated by the general citizenry.

Every meal is prepared by the professional dietitians of Montefiore Hospital, bounded by the dietary needs of the individual client. “Applicants for the programs should be homebound. Referrals come from local hospitals, institutions, etc. Today, the basic age of the patron is between sixty and ninety-five. All doctors, social workers, case managers, etc., are also made aware of the services MOW are providing. Services are available to all New Rochelle residents regardless of age or income who are confined to their homes and are not able to obtain adequate meals for themselves as a result of illness, physical handicap, or disability.”

Ms. Maucieri states, “the average nursing home stay is approximately $91,000 annually. Cuts in Medicare and Medicaid are contributing to the rising costs, and reduction in the number of long-term nursing home beds. When asked, most seniors would prefer to live in their own homes with innumerable family mementoes. There really is no substitute for someone staying safely in their own home environment. Financially, emotionally, community wise, there is currently no greater substitute for this care.  As a truly independent service, little aid is received by MOW from the government.”

“Meals on Wheels originated in the United Kingdom during The Blitz, when many people lost their homes and therefore the ability to cook their own food. The concept of delivering meals to those unable to prepare their own evolved into the modern programs that deliver mostly to the housebound elderly for free or with donations.”  “The first NYS program began in Rochester in 1958.” Wikipedia.

The Financial Aspect: As a Not-for-Profit organization, they file a publically available 990EZ.  For the past few years they recorded deficits that have been given attention to and therefore are decreasing annually.  Their major expense is for two part-time salary positions overseeing all meal distributions, bookkeeping functions, insurance concerns, contacting agencies, families, etc.  There are three major sources of revenue, respectively 2012 and 2013:

Contributions, gifts, grants: $30,781, $38,741.
Program Service revenue: $40,776, $33,205.
Fund Raising Fall Gala, net of expense: $25,324, $25,137.
(Mary:  Eliminate this data and display category only?)

The Human Aspect: The following is an excerpt from a client’s niece about volunteer, Mr. Ken Rinck: “He (Kenny Rinck) has been especially friendly taking time to share about himself and his family with my Aunt.  Aunt “D” has always been extremely independent and self-sufficient and is now facing blindness accompanied by hearing loss. Kenny’s friendliness and compassion have certainly been a blessing and given my Aunt a ray of sunshine in her otherwise darkened world. Thank you for your ministry of Meals-on-Wheels.”

Ken joined MOW about 14 years ago. “After retiring, I looked for something I could do, locally, in the community. I seem to get more out of it (serving) than what the patrons receive. Just what the Bible says, ‘The more you give, the more you get.’ Some of our clients are fun to be around.  The training was basic and not very difficult as you do a few drive-alongs with another experienced worker.”

Mr. Tony Smith, another volunteer delivering meals, “became involved with Meals on Wheels through our Church.  If my memory serves me correctly, I read in the weekly church bulletin that they needed people to help deliver meals.  I called their office and told them that I would help them just this one time.  I enjoyed the experience so much that I have been working in the field with the program going on 5 years.  Simply put, I get a sense of fulfillment from delivering meals to their clients.  I enjoy doing it and I am thankful that God has blessed me and my family so that I am able to do it.  Every client that I’ve delivered to has expressed their gratitude and some even give treats every week.”

Ms. Patricia Showers, MOW Executive Director, “When my last child went off to middle school and thus no longer came home for lunch, I began searching for a community-oriented projects and, serendipitously, MOW of New Rochelle was searching for a part-time Coordinator.  We clicked! Lorraine Clesse, MOW Asst. Director, and I get much the same satisfaction from our daily interaction with our homebound clients as do the volunteers –visiting, comforting, arranging for meals and trying to accommodate preferences – and foibles!…as well as intervening in emergencies.  It is very gratifying to be able to ease some of the anxieties in the lives of our frail elderly neighbors.”

“They are in the planning stages for their annual Fall Gala. Honorees are Charles Fazzino, International Artist; Sebastian Aliberti & Anthony Russo, Owners Modern Restaurant; Karenann Carty, Vice President of Academics at Monroe College; and Anthony Alfano, Vice President/Executive Director, Montefiore, New Rochelle Hospital. Meals-on-Wheels of New Rochelle Inc. can be reached at 50 Pintard Avenue, NR, NY  10801. Or call (914) 576.3865. Web-site: www.mowofnr.org. Volunteers, donations and beneficiaries of their great services/ministry are always wanted.”

#1400

Published in the Westchester Guardian, March 2015

Part I

Our treasure of free public libraries in the American Colonies can be traced back to 1656, when Boston merchant Captain Robert Keayne willed his collection of books to the city. Later, Anglican Reverend Thomas Bray established 70 libraries for public use in the colonies use from 1695-1704.

In 1731, Benjamin Franklin and friends established the Library Company of Philadelphia. This subscription library served as a model and inspiration for many libraries. The American library as we know it today, developed between 1850 and 1900. During the 1920s, the role of public libraries began to shift as federal support for libraries expanded. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_public_library_advocacy)

 The Westchester Library System (WLS).  (540 White Plains Road, Suite 200, Tarrytown, NY 10591, 914-674-3600, https://www.westchesterlibraries.org).  Established 1958, the WLS ties all 38 independent branches and 44 structures (some cities have libraries in two or more distinct locations) of this County’s libraries.  It is state-chartered and run by a 15 member board of trustees. This cooperative’s mission: is to enhance and improve the County’s libraries and to ensure that all residents have excellent library service regardless of their location.

Their responsibilities include but not limited to cataloging and processing, maintaining information technology, Inter library loans and delivery, community outreach and Career and Educational Counseling services.

This interconnection between cities means that patrons have at their disposal every book, magazine, CD, DVD movie in Westchester County – retrievable through the interlibrary loan system.   Through the WLS, with your library card, you also have remote access at home and at a library branch, to extensive electronic, reference databases providing articles and information from hundreds of magazines and abstracts from many publications, books, records tapes, Ebooks, audiobooks music etc., through your absolutely FREE library card!

These electronic sites are available through the WLS web site via the tabs.  Their Listen and Read tab provides: OverDrive, Freading, Project Gutenberg, Comics Plus: Library Edition, Google Books, and Free Music Archive and more. The Job and Career tab provides the following applications: the Learning Express Career Center, the Job and Career Accelerator and the WEBS counseling services. The Learn tab presents the following apps: Learn English, the Lynda.com, University of Fashion, etc. Other services include Career and Education counseling services; various adult services, youth services, job and career programs and TASC (GED) material.

The behind the scenes staff maintains this network and processes the materials entered by member libraries so all of Westchester’s citizens have access. (Sources: www.westchesterlibraries.org, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Westchester_Library_System)

 The Yonkers Riverfront Library Branch: Of its three branches, the Yonkers Riverfront Library is the main site.  1 Larkin Center, Yonkers, New York 10701 (914)-337-1500. https://www.ypl.org/riverfront. Mr. Ed Fancone, Interim Director.

The library, formed in 1883, also consists of the Grinton I. Will branch and the Crestwood branch. All three libraries offer a variety of modern public library services. The Library is a founding member of the Westchester Library System (WLS), a free consortium serving the residents of Westchester County.

Mission Statement: The Yonkers Public Library is committed to serving the community and fostering the personal growth of all its citizens. We encourage a love of reading among children, and support people of all ages in pursuits involving lifelong learning and the enrichment of leisure time. The Library seeks to address the needs and interests of our patrons by providing varied information resources, popular materials, up-to-date technology, expert guidance and a well-rounded program of community activities.

Computer classes are given at all three branches. The Riverfront Library of the Yonkers Public Library offers the full range of modern public library services and collections. Among special collections and services are extensive business, technical, grant and governmental information sources in printed and electronic formats. The region’s collections of federal government documents is housed here, via the Federal Depository collection. There is also access to the Foundation Center Directory Online. The Riverfront Library also has available meeting rooms, and a state-of-the-art auditorium nearly one hundred computers and a typewriter.

As the New York State federal regional federal depository for United States government publications, the State Library receives and permanently keeps a copy of almost every document distributed under the Government Printing Office Depository Library Program.

“The Federal Depository Library Program was established by Congress to ensure that the American public has access to its Government’s information. GPO administers the FDLP on behalf of the participating libraries and the public. Information products from the Federal Government are disseminated to these nationwide libraries that, in turn, ensure the American public has free access to the materials, both in print and online.” (https://www.gpo.gov/libraries/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=federal-depository-library-program.)

Their Federal Depository collection at the Riverfront Branch offers “a core collection and specialized government documents including the US Government Manual, Federal Register, CIA World Fact Book, Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States, census information, and more,” including, The Congressional Record, the Congressional Directory, the Social Security Handbook and so much more, so ask for guidance, there is a lot of interesting information. (The Mount Vernon Library is also a Federal Depository.) In addition, the Library owns a microform edition of depository (1956-June 1992) and non-depository (1953+) Federal documents.

The Grants Information Center is one of more than 400 Cooperating Collections of the Foundation Center having comprehensive information available on foundations and corporate giving. As a partner, the Riverfront branch “houses an extensive collection of free print and electronic resources that help nonprofit organizations and individuals identify sources of grants and foundation funding”.

Children’s services include Homework help, book awards, Learning Express, Online practice test and Parents Guide to summer camps. There are various classes throughout the week (expect Sundays) and they vary greatly from Greyston Garden club to bilingual story time. The Homework Helper program, for children in grades 1–7, this program provides homework assistance during afterschool hours. Mondays – Wednesdays 4:30pm – 6:30pm, Thursdays 4:30 – 6pm in the Arts & Crafts Room. There is also America Reads and Miss. Kat’s Crazy Winter Days events.

Teen programs include homework help, book awards and Learning Express in addition to job, help wanted online postings displaying opportunities in their city as well as the county. Classes for February and March mostly occur from Wednesday to Saturday. Activities are light with the main focus on TASC Connect formerly GED. These TASC classes are for adults as well and occur Wednesday, Friday and Saturdays from 10am to 1 pm and Thursdays from 5 to 8 pm.  There is Teen Thursdays with arts and crafts, apps, movies board and electronic games from three to five pm.

The impressive adult services include computer classes range from “Beginners e-mail” to “Microsoft Word” and book clubs. Other classes include “Tips and Tricks for Resumes”. There is also the Senior Information center and a “Writer’s Corner”. For more entertainment there are feature films on weekends, a book club, February has Black History Month events, and the weekly Knitting and Crocheting workshop Tuesday mornings from 10 – 11:30 am.

Every Tuesday, except the last Tuesday of the month, from 10 am to 1 pm is the Medicare Assistance program. A notary is available but on a limited schedule. A job coach is available every Wednesday from 11:30am – 1:30pm, for free assistance and on alternate Wednesdays at the Will Branch.  Also, there is the Kurzweil Reading Machine, for those blind or have low vision, that scans printed materials and reads them aloud.  All services includes free downloads for eBooks and audiobooks.

The Riverfront’s Computer center called “Tech Zone” is in the planning/development stage but current computers have applications ranging from “General Computer Learning” and a typing class to Windows, Excel, Access, Social Networking and Mobile Apps.

According to the Board minutes “ideas were shared to expand existing youth services at the Library in collaboration with the Yonkers Public. Schools vis-a-vis student volunteers, school visits, student internships, grant writing and donation assistance”. This is an ongoing project to improve the already good relationship between the school system and the library.

Do not forget their collection of CD’s, movies, music and books for those who like the feel of paper and the joy of turning a page. The Friends of the Yonkers Library also holds book sales four to five times a year.

This new and ever growing world of information via electronic formats/computers can seem overwhelming and repetitive. Their great staff is there to serve and please visit their web site or call.

#1388

Published in the Westchester Guardian, March 2014

I do not know how this will affect the mentally ill community and their daily suffering but we have a lot of opinions.

Governor Andrew Cuomo has implemented a plan to redesign our mental health system. Ideally, this should decrease overall cost, improve the safety net and its treatment of the inflicted and their families. The closing of 9 of Our State’s 24 mental health impatient facilities and the conversion to ‘hubs’ should save $43 million upon full implementation. There will be 5 Office of Mental Health (OMH) regions with each region containing 2 or more Regions of Centers Excellence (RCEs) for a total of 15 RCEs. “RCE’s will be regionally-based networks of inpatient and community-based services, each with a specialized inpatient hospital program located at its center with geographically dispersed community service “hubs” overseeing state-operated community-based services throughout the region.” (Per NYS OMH Report, July 11, 2013.) Westchester will be a ‘hub’ under the Hudson River Region, headquartered in Orangeburg and providing adult, child and adolescent inpatient services. NYS mental health spending is twice the national per-capital average.

Local politics, via the state legislature has prevented earlier facility closings. (And mental health is not the only area facing closings. Some prisons and juvenile detention facilities were closed despite opposition.)  The issues: How much of a trade-off between quality and cost is acceptable? Can the safety net be strengthened or even maintained in the face of financial challenges? Can new ways and structures of implementing services be successfully developed? Will the 15 regions be separate and equal in quality?

Quotes form New Windsor Police Commissioner Michael Biasotti, in an opinion-editorial letter (October 14, 2013, Timesunion.com) states “When psychiatric beds go down, incarceration goes up.”  “Because OMH closes state hospitals and refuses to make full use of existing capacity, local psychiatric hospitals become overcrowded. The psychiatrists are put under intense pressure not to admit patients and to discharge those admitted sicker and quicker to free beds for new arrivals. Anyone well enough to walk in and ask for help, is generally not sick enough to be admitted.” “We wait hours for psychiatrists to evaluate them, only to find the doctor overrules us and refuses to admit the patient. If the individual is admitted, they will generally be discharged prior to being fully stabilized or having effective community services put in place.”

In December 2013, the NYS Psychiatric Association states the following developments: RCEs will not take place until local communities are ready, three of the nine hospitals will now remain open until further notice and two new children’s centers are to open. Their Position paper concludes: “Here in New York, if we again embark on another plan to “restructure” the state psychiatric centers to achieve cost savings, we must first plan, implement and adequately fund an alternative state-operated “safety net” to continue to provide crucial services for those children and adults who currently rely on the public hospital system before we dismantle it.”  Is there time and ability to do such?

1955. J. Jaffe of the City Journal “Unlike community-based programs, psychiatric hospitals cater to those who need inpatient services, cannot survive safely in the community, or who refuse treatment. New York currently has about 4,000 state psychiatric hospital beds—roughly 27 per 100,000 New Yorkers, down from 600 per 100,000 in 1955. To meet the generally accepted minimum standard of 50 beds for every 100,000 people in a state, New York needs at least 3,000 more psychiatric beds. As a result of the shortage, at least 9,000 mentally ill New Yorkers are currently incarcerated and thousands are homeless. Closing hospitals and losing even more beds will only make the problem worse.” “Cuomo hasn’t said what, if anything, will replace New York State’s psychiatric hospitals once they close, or what will happen to the patients. The New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH) is circulating a Regional Centers of Excellence Plan containing lots of platitudes but few details. What’s clear is that many previously hospitalized patients will be declared “recovered” and left to fend for themselves. Others will be transferred to distant facilities, making it hard for their families to visit them. Anyone who gets sick after the hospitals close will simply be locked out.”

Positive reviews came from the following reports.

“While it is still very early in the process of analyzing the Governor’s budget proposal, the NYS Council is pleased with the level of support we received for most of our sectors critical needs.  I say ‘most’ because we are deeply concerned that our workforce is once again being asked to defer a COLA that is badly needed,” said Lauri Cole, Executive Director of the NYS Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare.  “The Governor’s budget proposal does a good job putting together a package of investments that we hope will support the rollout of managed care in our service system.  We are counting on the fact that it is enough money to continue New York’s commitment to guarantee access to care through adequate networks composed of behavioral health provider organizations who know best how to meet the complex needs of individuals challenged by an addiction or mental health issue.”

“NYS Governor Andrew Cuomo’s budget proposal for the coming fiscal year addresses numerous long sought budget priorities for NYAPRS members,” said Harvey Rosenthal, Executive Director of the New York State Association of Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services. “Since our origins in 1981, we have long pushed for the state to move resources from institutional settings like state and Medicaid hospitals and adult and nursing homes into the expansion of community recovery services and supports. And we have worked hard over the past 2 decades to help championed the rise and growth of a broad array of rehabilitation, employment, housing and peer run initiatives.   This year’s Executive Budget proposal represents the largest single investment and/or reinvestment in community recovery initiatives in decades. The OMH budget increases by 1.6% or $52 million.”

With such diverse opinions, some political, I am at a loss at what to believe or expect. As one with the constant daily pain of mental illness, I pray and hope all this leads to a better system of growth and healing.

#1029