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NYSHA - New York State Hamaspik Association
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| Support from the Top |
NYS Governor David Paterson Lauds,
Rallies Hamaspik at Legislative Breakfast
Feb. 2010
The guest of honor at Hamaspik’s recent gala was no mailman, but this past January 28, 2010, neither snow nor ice nor bumper-to-bumper New York State Thruway traffic stayed New York Governor David A. Paterson from swiftly completing the personal delivery of a very special message to the Hamaspik community.
The Hamaspik Inaugural Legislative Breakfast, held on a surprisingly snowy Thursday morning, was designed to foster and strengthen the voluntary agency’s relationship with elected officials and public servants. It drew a capacity crowd to Hamaspik Terrace, the on-site social hall at Hamaspik of Rockland County’s main office on Monsey’s Route 59 thoroughfare.
As the weather laid a blanket of snow on the ground outside, Gov. Paterson laid the groundwork for improved relations between Hamaspik and several levels of government—and improved Hamaspik-related communication between those levels of government.
“For all Hamaspik consumers and their families, the honor of having the Governor of New York State at our agency for an official event was a dream come true,” said Meyer Wertheimer, Executive Director of Hamaspik.
All hands on deck
Though the event officially began at 9:00 a.m., Hamaspik staffers were on site as early as 7:00 in the morning, opening the doors for a flood of caterers, technicians and logistical staff to execute final touches on extensive plans laid in previous weeks and days.
By 8:30 a.m., dozens of staffers from Hamaspik of Rockland, Orange and Kings Counties were milling about and socializing with the first of the sizable crowd of guests that had already arrived. Though a moderate snow was falling outside, the inclement weather didn’t stop several dignitaries from showing up early.
A group of consumers were clustered around the front lobby area, which had been appropriately redecorated per the high-caliber visit. Two trays of custom-made, individually-wrapped chocolates, each imprinted with a Hamaspik logo and greeting, were on hand for guests to enjoy. The consumers also brandished specially-printed flags with which to greet the governor.
While Gov. Paterson’s aides and security paced the lobby outside the hall as they awaited the arrival of their boss, whose vehicular convoy was delayed by the snowstorm, emcee Brenda Katina took the podium at a few minutes past nine to officially start the event.
Thanks and gratitude
After opening remarks, Mrs. Katina welcomed State Assemblywoman Ellen Jaffee (D-95th Dist.), joking that the public servant speaks 12 languages. Assemblywoman Jaffee was then called upon to speak.
In her brief comments, Jaffee talked about the contributions of Hamaspik of Rockland County’s social-services system, emphasizing Hamaspik’s Early Intervention programs. “As you all know, research has proven that early intervention is extremely critical to a child’s developmental success—the earlier the intervention, the better chance the child has to maximize his or her potential,” said the public servant.
Jaffee then mentioned “one young man,” a Hamaspik group resident, whose “passion for politics” drives him to call her office frequently, saying that Hamaspik allows him and others like him to be “vital members of our Rockland community.”
Drawing upon her own past experience as a special education teacher, Jaffee then stressed the importance of the right staff. “Your compassionate and highly professional staff delivers the highest quality services. I know how hard you work, as do the families and the consumers we serve,” she declared. “We’re all grateful that you recognize the special strengths of every single person you care for. Ultimately, Hamaspik is about families… I applaud you for your determination that your child gets the best possible services… Your programs enrich our entire community.”
Katina then introduced retiring OMRDD Associate Commissioner Kathleen Broderick.
By way of introduction, the emcee shared the story of an elderly Roman citizen carrying a soldier’s pack for the required one mile—and then some. When the soldier asked why he persisted, the man explained that while the first mile was duty, the second was service.
“Kathy has always gone the extra mile,” said Katina. Ms. Broderick then took the podium.
“I think we all carry things an extra mile because we get so involved in what we do and it has become our lives,” Broderick began, segueing into a soliloquy on gratitude. Never forget to say thank you to at least one person each day, especially consumers, she advised, noting that consumers and their families are likewise grateful. “They also thank you because you have been a difference in their lives… without you, their children would have no life.”
“The answer to so many families is Hamaspik,” continued Broderick. “You are doing such a tremendous job for the people that you serve. I encourage you to never forget why it is we are here…You are a success because... of what you have formed: You have formed a community that makes a difference.”
In the midst of her next point, however, sustained applause suddenly erupted with the entry of Governor David A. Paterson, who had just worked a receiving line of consumers outside the hall.
Hail from the chief
After instructing the standing crowd to take its seats, Mr. Wertheimer reiterated a formal opening: “Ladies and Gentlemen: Welcome to the Hamaspik Inaugural Legislative Breakfast; welcome, Honorable David A. Paterson, Governor of New York State.”
In his concise, compelling comments from the podium, the Governor spoke from the heart.
See the video
Paterson first thanked Hamaspik founder and Executive Director for “23 sound years of service,” then thanked his “colleagues in government,” including Congressman John Hall, Senator Tom Morahan and Assemblywoman Ellen Jaffee, though Hall and Morahan could not attend. “To all of you who have been of assistance to this great organization, I want to thank you on behalf of the people of the state of New York.” Vigorous applause broke out, with the crowd of Hamaspik employees and their supportive public servants internalizing the high praise from no less than a governor.
The governor next took note of Hamaspik’s growth from a single ICF in 1987 to a network spanning 12 New York State counties. “That is incredible development in a short period of time,” he asserted, also pointing out that New Yorkers of all backgrounds now benefit from Hamaspik’s care.
Paterson commented that Hamaspik employs thousands. “What better job would there be than the service and care of others?” he rhetorically asked.
“We had a long, big word we used to talk about: deinstitutionalization,” continued the Governor, recalling that his workforce career began over 25 years ago working with mentally disabled defendants at the Manhattan DA’s office. “The problem with deinstitutionalization is that we effected it so quickly that there weren’t the kind of service providers that were strong enough to care for them. And that’s what gave Mr. Wertheimer the idea of creating Hamaspik… What you did was give people who are disabled greater opportunities than they ever would have had before to be part of our society.”
Affirming his personal support for Hamaspik’s work as both a disabled person and New York’s first legally blind governor, Paterson railed against the “staggering” unemployment rate in America’s disabled community, averaging to 37 out of every 100 disabled indivi-duals, and thanked Hamaspik deeply for its work. The Governor elicited a fierce round of applause upon declaring his desire to bring “the kind of integrated care that Hamaspik has brought to the Hudson Valley and New York City and Long Island and Westchester… all over the state. I can’t thank you enough.”
“Hamaspik,” the Governor continued, may mean “provider.” “But it isn’t just a word. It’s your work that informs people who are the recipients of your care, the family members, or those even at the administrative level of the state who observe the tremendous way you give of yourselves for others,” he stated.
Continuing his supportive, almost folksy rhetoric, Paterson said, “There is a new sheriff in town” while playfully putting fist to hip, noting that his administration would be working with state agencies “so we can expand your facilities and expand your wonderful service to those who need it all over the state.”
The state’s chief executive then outlined his affinity for Hamaspik’s line of work, connecting on a powerful personal level with the Hamaspik crowd.
“There were a few Hamaspiks before Hamaspik. There were a few organizations that cared for those who had ability but not opportunity, whom society did not believe in, the stones that that builder refused. I tell you that because I am one of them,” he shared. “If I hadn’t got the opportunity to be mainstreamed into public education but at the same time have organizations that could help me with the special needs that I have, I wouldn’t be standing here as Governor—I don’t know if I would even be employed. I’m lucky. I am one of the truly blessed people.”
Wrapping up his poignant remarks, Paterson concluded that he would be “remiss” if he didn’t purvey executive backing to Hamaspik and like agencies for inspiring special-need individuals to life’s highest aspirations. “Maybe they can go out and help save the world,” the Governor pointed out.
A robust round of cheers subsided as Emcee Katina introduced her own Family Care child, 14-year-old Trani, who recited a special message of thanks for Paterson, who stood by looking on, visibly moved. Katina then presented the governor with a gift from Hamaspik: an elegant music box that plays “What a Wonderful World.”
With the band playing the appropriate Frank Sinatra classic “New York, New York,” the crowd clapped once again as the Governor made his way to the exit.
“Gov. Paterson’s visit is sure to go a long way to demonstrate equality and integration for people with disabilities,” Mr. Wertheimer later told the Gazette. “We were all inspired by his words, which he delivered with compassion and grit. We also received feedback from parents of consumers about the Governor’s speech and they loved every word. The speech was amazing in its breadth of the issues at hand, and the deep commitment to the wellbeing of severely challenged individuals.”
Public servants, public thanks
After a brief intermission that allowed the excitement to drop down a notch, Mr. Wertheimer took the podium to respectfully ask Ms. Broderick to resume her talk.
Taking the floor where she had been preempted by Gov. Paterson, Broderick elicited chuckles by saying, “I didn’t become Associate Commissioner by not knowing when to move out of the way.” After noting the “privilege” of meeting the governor and hearing his recognition of Hamaspik, Broderick reiterated that behind all the paperwork and occasional frustration of special-needs work is the difference that said work makes in consumers’ lives.
“Never forget that everything that you do matters,” said Broderick. “Thank you for everything you do.”
Mr. Wertheimer returned to the podium to individually acknowledge the numerous public servants present, coupled with words of appreciation for each.
Mentioned first were Rockland County Legislators Wolfe, Schoenberger and Soskin. “The Rockland County Legislature is in the forefront of creating legislation for the welfare of the community,” Mr. Wertheimer noted. “Rockland County was the first [county in the country—ed.] to pass laws in regards to cell phones, consumer credit gift cards, and it goes on and on. We are proud to have them as our Legislators.”
The Executive Director next acknowledged “a partner in county government,” Rockland County Coordinator of Long Term Care Susan Lettre, as well as Rockland County Dept. of Social Services Commissioner Susan Sherwood, who, unlike Lettre, was unable to attend. “To the credit of Susan, Hamaspik became the largest agency in the county providing consumer driven personal care aides,” continued Mr. Wertheimer. “This program is… the least restrictive and least bureaucratic, and today, in our own county, we serve close to 200 individuals who remain in the community and did not have to be placed into nursing homes.” Mr. Wertheimer also noted that Hamaspik’s recently-acquired LHCSA contract will only enhance, not circumvent, its existing CDPAP program. “Thank you, Susan, and thank you to our Commissioner,” Mr. Wertheimer concluded.
“I want to welcome the East Ramapo Board of Education who works so tirelessly to get services to the special needs population: Aaron Wieder, Eli Solomon, Moshe Hopstein and Moshe Cohen,” continued Mr. Wertheimer. “Thank you so much for all the efforts. I know you have no easy task, and we will continue to bombard you and to bother you until things will be settled.”
Likewise acknowledged with warm words of praise New Square Deputy Mayor Israel Spitzer, recently-elected Spring Valley Mayor Noramie Jasmine and Trustee Joseph Gross, retiring OMRDD Associate Commissioner Kathleen Broderick, incoming OMRDD Associate Commissioner Jill Gentile, Brooklyn DDSO Director Donna Limiti, Hudson Valley DDSO Director Mike Kirschmer and Deputy Director Jackie Spring, Brooklyn DDSO Deputy Director Sheila Gholson, Brooklyn DDSO Director of Community Services Janet Strauss and Rockland County Team Leader Vivian Street.
Comparing the numerous government officials present to family, Mr. Wertheimer went on to thank several more by name along with words of appreciation. These included Hudson Valley DDSO Director Jill Gentile and Deputy Director Jackie Spring, and Orange County Team Leader Eileen Wood.
“Yes, indeed: G-d bless America,” concluded Mr. Wertheimer. “But G-d blessed New York State with these individuals being in public service.” The crowd responded with heartfelt sustained applause.
Mr. Wertheimer’s heartfelt thanks to the governor for his expressed desire to assist Hamaspik were followed by a recital of “G-d Bless America” and the National Anthem by Cantor Bentzion Weiss.
Working together
After the vocal renditions, Katina proudly introduced her daughter to the crowd, and then invited Associate Commissioner Gentile to share a few words.
“We’re honored to be partnering with Hamaspik on a day-to-day basis to develop services for your members and family members,” said Gentile from the podium. “Over the years, the quality of your services is evident. The passion and commitment that is in this room is evident, and it’s exciting to continue on this partnership. Our mission at OMRDD is to help individuals live richer lives, and truly, Hamaspik does that, day in and day out,” she concluded to applause.
Winding down the program, Katina quipped, “I’m debating whether to continue entertaining you until the food is gone… but by me, an event is not complete if Jackie Spring is there and I didn’t say anything.” Katina then thanked the long-time friend of Hamaspik for her notable attentiveness towards the organization. “You’re assisting us with such grace, doing everything to perfection,” concluded Katina, smilingly adding while looking in Spring’s direction, “Sorry—I had to say something.”
Mrs. Katina then praised Mike Kirschmer for his involvement with Hamaspik, beginning with a day 15 years ago when one of the first residents of Hamaspik’s Dinev Inzerheim ICF in Monroe, then an infant, was placed in the facility. Kirschmer had paid a personal visit to the child at the time—and today, Katina noted, he is a strapping lad of 15. “And we’re looking forward to many, many more,” she ended.
Praising Donna Limiti for doing her job “and then some,” Katina graciously called upon the Brooklyn DDSO Director to share a few words.
“To tell you the truth, I’m really happy that I had the opportunity to publicly tell people how much I really, really like this agency,” said Limiti. “I’m not saying I have any favorite agencies—I’m not saying that—but Hamaspik might be right up there. I’ve had wonderful experiences from the very first person that I met… and what has always struck me is what others have said: Passion about the service that’s delivered is just exceptional—and everybody just seems so young! I welcome to continue this relationship.”
Limiti also had a few kind words for Hamaspik of Kings County Executive Director Joel Freund. “And you know, Joel, I’m going to keep pressing you and asking you to do favors for us, and you always come through.”
“I have to also say that Hamapik is one agency that has time and time again come to the plate to serve people who are incredibly difficult to serve—and Joel has never said ‘No’ flat-out. He’s always said, ‘Let me see what I can do.’ If he can’t do it, he’ll be honest—but in most cases, Joel, you’ve come through, and I just want you to know, we really do appreciate it. So thank you.” The crowd vigorously applauded.
New Square Deputy Mayor Israel Spitzer rose to share a few words of support for Hamaspik and Mr. Wertheimer, recalling how the Executive Director went well out of his way, and on a Jewish fast day to boot, to help Spitzer’s community assist a child with special needs. “I wish him the great success,” Spitzer simply stated.
“Thank you so much to all of you for enhancing this event, this historical event,” said Katina in officially capping the program. “Thank you for giving us this opportunity to share.”
The crowd then slowly dispersed, socializing around the hall’s food-laden tables and spilling into Hamaspik’s hallway, lobby and offices.
Looking forward
As staff and public servants mingled, the Gazette made its rounds of the crowd. Hamaspik Gazette Yiddish Editor Isaac Schnitzler was overheard personally thanking Mike Kirschmer, both as an employee and a special-needs parent, for the OMRDD-driven Hamaspik services received by the Schnitzlers’ two-year-old Down Syndrome daughter Malka Brucha.
In the main hallway, the Gazette caught up with the Brooklyn DDSO’s Donna Limiti and Sheila Gholson, inquiring about the OMRDD’s internal reaction to the budget-cutting winds currently blowing from Albany. “It’s forced us to think outside the box, to brainstorm and think creatively,” said Gholson. Fiscal conservatism? “That’s exactly right,” Gholson replied.
Still, Limiti added, the Brooklyn DDSO was able to recently release new RFS proposals—demonstrating that, with a little tweaking and ingenuity, individuals with special needs can always be helped.
And on that, Governor Paterson, the OMRDD and Hamaspik can surely agree.
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