PLEASE JOIN US FOR OUR 4th ANNUAL

MARCH MEATBALL MADNESS (A taste competition to determine who makes the best Meatballs in the Mohawk Valley)

Sunday, March 3, 2013 Crystal Ballroom

Hotel Utica 102 Lafayette St. Utica

Noon – 3 p.m. Meatball Eating Contest Celebrity Judge’s Panel Children’s Judge’s Panel with Winners of the Children’s Poetry Contest

Free Taste Testings of Cheeses & Meats by Little Italy Imports, Pastries by Caruso’s Pastry Shoppe & Pizza by DeIorio’s Bakery, Inc. Mike Viti, DJ ****Meet Spicy the Meatball!!! *****Free Kids’ Facepainting Tickets: Adults $10.00 ******Kids 6-17 $5.00 ***** 5 & Under Free

See Page 11 for advance tickets.

Mission Statement

Abraham House is rooted in the philosophy

that we provide our guests with a secure, loving environment

while providing physical care as well as emotional and spiritual support to the terminally ill in our

community with absolutely no financial burden to our guest or

their family.

Newsletter • 02/2013 1203 Kemble Street • Utica, New York 13501 • Phone: 315.733.8210 • Fax: 315.733.8210 • www.theabrahamhouse.org

Executive Director Patty Shenberger Medical Director Dr. Roger Moore Care Coordinator

Barbara Ryczek Sheila Vellone President Al Shaw

Vice- President Kim Witchley Treasurer Stephen Powers Secretary Judy Galimo

Board of Directors Kimberly Kolch Candace Miller Joyce Rossi Joseph Saba Lucy Viti

An Afternoon of Big Band Music featuring:

3rd Annual Steve Falvo’s

Easy Money Big Band &

Comedy Review Saturday, April 20, 2013

3:00-6:00 p.m. Club Monarch

Oriskany Boulevard, Yorkville

Tickets: $20.00

Cash Bar/Small Menu items available for sale during performance.

Tickets available at the door, at Abraham House or by mail (see page 11 for advance tickets):

In Memoriam: We are saddened by the recent death of Mrs. Ruth Shaheen. She and her husband Dr. A. Louis Shaheen donated our Victorian home

many years ago and they have been gracious supporters of Abraham House throughout the years. Mrs. Shaheen

was a classy and unassuming lady. We were always honored when she attended many of our fundraisers.

She will be missed.

to Dr. A. Louis Shaheen for his recent donation to fund a per diem office manager with the addition of

Missy Biamonte to our family. Funds were also donated to have a fund development consultant in 2013 to help

us create greater financial stability.

Keep in touch and receive Abraham House updates through Facebook.

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2nd Annual

“Singing Sensations” Talent Show

We are looking for the most talented area singers from age 5-18 to participate in our talent show

Friday, May 17, 2013 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Mohawk Valley Community College Theater

(Information Technology, Conference & Performing Arts Building) 1101 Sherman Drive, Utica

25 singers will be selected 4 Prizes Awarded in two age categories:

5-12 & 13-18 Year Olds

1st Place Winners--$100 2nd Place Winners--$50

If your child has a youtube video link, please list this below. Otherwise, children must submit a CD by mail or drop off by

Wednesday, April 17th to Abraham House, 1203 Kemble Street, Utica, NY 13501 or email

to: info@theabrahamhouse.org. Children will be notified if selected to participate. There is no entry fee for contestants-Families do pay for their own tickets.

Child’s name:_____________________________ Age_________ Address: _________________________________ EmailAddress:_____________________________ Phone#:___________________________________ YouTube Video link: Link:_____________________________________

Tickets for the Talent Show: $10.00 Adults; $5.00 18 years & under Tickets available at the door, at Abraham House or

by mail (see page 11 for advance tickets) "As long as we can love each other, and remember the feeling of love we had, we can die without ever really going away. All the love you created is still there. All the memories are still there. You live on-in the hears of everyone you have touched and nurtured while you were here. Death ends a life, not a relationship".

By Mitch Album

Abraham House is celebrating 15 years of providing a welcome home to the dying

A Celebration of 15 Years -Reflection by Dr. Roger Moore, Medical Director I am often asked from whence the name Abraham House. My responses vary to some degree, always retaining with some nuance adherence to fact, but sometimes my reply admittedly, but with charity, is edited to fit the inquirer. Abraham, of Biblical renown, is certainly a worthy reference. Abraham (the A in A,L. Shaheen) is also a worthy reference indeed. Melding the two makes a powerful combination in whatever proportion seems appropriate. Fifteen years ago, under the umbrella of St. Francis De Sales and its inimitable pastor Fr. Fred Daly, Abraham House was born by the generosity of Dr. A.L. Shaheen and family, who donated the property, the doctor’s former office. Although initially owned by St. Francis DeSales, Abraham House soon evolved into independence, currently governed and managed by the Board of Directors and our gracious Director. In the beginning AIDs was universally lethal and Abraham House was a merciful haven for folk terminal with the malady. As the years have passed our guests have harbored a bevy of diagnoses in the final descent. Our challenge, our role, has consistently been to salve that inevitable journey and add quality, to the degree that is possible, to the passing experience. Needless to say, human beings are infinitely different; too is the dying drama. The staff at Abraham House, especially the volunteers, observes and participates in the drama uniquely. Their efforts are not always perfect (although often they are). To mollify pain, physical and otherwise, and with word and deed to ease the transition at hand is the ubiquitous task. To persevere in this mandate is our purpose. Abraham House exemplifies the following sentiment in "The Dying Person's Bill of Rights".

THE DYING PERSON'S BILL OF RIGHTS I have the right to be treated as a living human being until I die. I have the right to maintain a sense of hopefulness, however changing my focus may be. I have the right to be cared for by those who can maintain a sense of hopefulness, however changing this may be. I have the right to express my feelings and emotions about my approaching death in my own way. I have the right to participate in decisions concerning my case. I have the right to expect continuing medical and nursing care even though "cure" goals must be changed into "comfort" goals. I have the right not to die alone. I have the right to be free from pain. I have the right to have my questions answered honestly. I have the right not to be deceived. I have the right to have help from and for my family in accepting my death. I have the right to die in peace and dignity. I have the right to retain my individuality and not be judged for my decisions, which may be contrary to those of others. I have the right to expect that the sanctity of the human body will be respected after death. I have the right to be cared for by sensitive, knowledgeable people who will attempt to understand my needs and be able to gain some satisfaction in helping me face my death.

Celebrating 15 Years! By Patty Shenberger, Executive Director With Abraham House celebrating 15 years from its inception, we must take the time to thank all of those whose vision for Abraham House was realized. Thank you to all of those who gave of their time, love, skills and gifts of money or services over these past 15 years. It not only takes a village to raise a child, it takes a community to ensure that their dying members have a place to die with dignity. Please know that no matter how you have contributed to Abraham House over the years, that it has all mattered and been appreciated. Ultimately, it is our guests who have benefited from your support. Our guests were able to be surrounded by love and treated with such dignity at this very vulnerable time in their life because of you.

Page 3

We want to express our heartfelt appreciation to the following individuals and businesses who gave monetary donations, household items or services to Abraham House from September 2012 through January 2013. We could not have done it without you! Richard & Christine Abbass Gloria Abounader Mary Abraham Daniel Acker Barbara Acquaviva Christina Acquaviva-Cinque Adirondack Bank Advanced Power & Light Inc. Louis E. Aiello Marcia Alcuri American Legion Post 229 AmeriCU Credit Union Bob & Vicki Anderson APT (Poland Teachers) Mary & Joseph Artessa Mary Ruth Ashmore Richard & Shirley Astle John & Donna Attili Bagel Grove, Matt Grove Marytherese Balutis Cynthia Banas Bank of America Charitable Foundation Robert Bannigan Kathy Barcomb & family Mr. & Mrs. Jan Barendse Barone, Howard & Co., CPAs, PC Estelle Barton Frank Basile, CPAs Hans & Jeannette Baumgartner Howard & Sharon Baye Maria Beck Robert & Janice Bedell Maura & Jim Bednarczyk Ray & Sharyn Belfield Francis A. & Dolores J. Benedetto Rosemary H. Benson Mary & Thomas Bentley Frank Benvenga Rose Berry Terry Bierman Dick & Vivian Bigelow Angela Biggs Arlene Black Janet F. Blaney BNY Mellon Community Partnership Employee Funds Bette Boise Jane Bolan Catherine Bolton Bonacci Architects (David & Regina Bonacci) Lindsay M. Bonanza Betsy & Roger Bonsel William S. Bonsted Angeline Booras Kenneth Bord Richard Borowlec Borza Recreation Center (Tim & Elaine Borza) Sandra & Dennis Bova, Sr.

Cheryl Bowen Jacqueline L. Bragg Jeffrey C. Brandstadt Black River Systems Jill Breckel Edith C. Brennan Amy Breton Janet Brown Mr. & Mrs. Richard T. Brown Steven Bryant Bryla Chiropractic & Physical Therapy Lisa Buck Winifred C. Buehler Art Bullock Archie & Regina Burton & Sons Denise Brannick Marlene Brown Lisa Buck Faye Bunk Joanne L. Burns Barbara Burrows Paul Butnoris Robert & Mary Byrd John & Ronda Cacek Teresa Cackett Mary Cahill Frank J. L. Calaprice Steve & Wanda Calhoun Leo P. Callari Robert Calli Calvary Cemetery Staff R. M. Camesano DMD Melissa Swald Camman Brad & Joann Campbell Candellas Virginia V. Cannon Elena Cantarero Nicholas & Marilyn Capuana Carbone Automotive Group Juan J. Cartarero Caruso’s Pastry Shoppe Carmela Caruso Enrico Caruso Rick Caruso Michael & Sherri Cash Charron & Franco Caparello Gerard T. Capraro Christine Carleo Mr. & Mrs. John Caruana Carmela Caruso Enrico Caruso Rick Caruso Joan K. Cecconi Louis & Carol Ceci Dolores Chainey Chanatry’s Supermarket Cynthia Chappel LCSW-R Charitable Trust Share UTD Thelma Chase David A. & Theresa Chickering Jacqueline H. Ciagnlia Sandra Cirrincione Phyl P. & Philip A. Cittadino Citation Services Babette (Babs) Clapper Dale L. Cleckner Vincent & Robert Clemente Bob & Karen Clendennen Clinton United Methodist Women

Sean & Jennifer Clive CNY Business Solutions Robert & Janice Coffin Terry & Dan Cohen JoAnn Colacicco Patricia R. Colbertson Anthony & Joyce Collea James & Jane Collins John A. Collins, Jr. Robin J. Collins Michael Colucci Colgate University-(Cove) Maureen Connelly Kathleen Cooke Coriale Web Design (Chris & Donna Coriale) Ben Coriale Dyana Cornaechia Bill & Valerie Corrigan Mary R. Cosgrove Lucille A. Costello Sally Cox Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Crimmer Dianne Cronauer Cross Point Church Carl & Kathleen Cuccaro Anthony & Marie Cucinotta Martha Culan Joan C. Cummings Maria Cummins Lorraine S. Curtis Eileen D. D’Agostino James & Carol Daly Diane D’Amore Dellarose H. Debbold Flora A. DeFazio Elisabetta DeGironimo Corinne A. Dellaera Alyce Demma Louis & Linda Denato Benita Denemark Alyce Demma Pat Dennison Jaymie & Russell Denny Msg. Carl J. Denti Foundation Inc. Tom & Flo Desimone Diane L. Destefanis Michael Diana & family Shirley & Joseph DiCesare George DiFabio Richard & Michele Diliberto Diodati Family Donald & Marie DiOrio James & Nancy Dischiavi Mr. & Mrs. James DiSpirito Leslie E. & Patricia Diven Celia J. Dlugolecki Edward Kaminski Janice Dinardo-Kaminski DML Sales Inc. Susan L. Dolan Barry & Jeanne Donalty Marie Dooley William Dooley Frances Doti Richard M. Drake Paul J. Drobin Elizabeth Droz

Anne Mercurio Dunn Justin Dyer Michael & Deborah Dyer EV Roofing Corp. Eannace Funeral Home Anita Eannace Maryrose Eannace Mike & Nancy Eannace Mr. & Mrs. Calvin Edmiston Ann Eisenhut Francis & Bonita Enjem Edward A. Ezick Andrew J. Faber Faith Furniture (dba) Trinity United Methodist Church Gary Falchi’s Carpet/Furniture Cleaning Peter & Barbara Falzarine Joanne Fanelli Image Group Josephine Fanelli Father John Faris Dawn Farrell Deborah Lee Favata Faxton Hospital School of Nursing Alumni Faxton-St. Lukes Healthcare, Ed. Dept. Janice Felitto Phyllis K. Fenton First & Main LLC (Barbara Griffin) First Presbyterian Church of Whitesboro First Utica Presbyterian Society, Inc. John H. Fitzsimmons Laurie Flagg Pat Fletcher Patricia A. Flihan Sharon A. Forcey Audrey Forcier Blake & Kathy Ford Linda S. Forsythe Melvin & Barbara Foster Patricia R. Francis Peg Francis Franco’s Pizza (Kathy Soldato) Dan & Cindy Freudenberger Casimir J. Gacek Family of John Gacek, Sr. Ralph Gacek Brian A. Gaetano Heather Gaetano July Galimo Lisa Gallimo & Ferris family Judith A. Galimo GALS Club (Erin Santa Maria) Barbara Galvin Dennis Garek Stanley Garek Brian Gatesman Gene taska Club of New Hartford General Electric Foundation Kathleen George John & Viola Giaquinto Joan A. Gilbert Gilroy, Kernan & Gilroy, Inc. Ralph & Pauline Giovinazzo Anthony & Catherine Giruzzi F. P. Giruzzi Joseph & Mary Giruzzi Violet Gladwin Steve Gonyea

Bartle & Judith B. Gorman Julie L. Gorczynski Mr. & Mrs. Donald F. Gossin A.C. Graf Nancy Graziadei Theresa & George Graziadei Christopher & Dorothy Greco Eugene Greco Nancy & Gene Greco Kathy Gregory-Salvo Deborah H. Griffith Paul & Barbara Grimaldi Barbara T. Groves Sandra Gubbins Beth Guzski Jane Halbritter Hamilton Business Office Cheryl G. Hammond Rev. Arthur Hapanowicz Sophia & Francis Hartman Mr. John Harvey George Haskell Ann Hayduk Scott Healy & Associates Mary Alice Hebert Maria & Joseph Heck Mathias & Jean Helbach Pam G. Hemma Heidi Hicks Darlene Hill Brian Hill Linda Hill James & Barbara Hinman Stuart Hirshfield Richard & Karen Hnat Bedelia Hobaica Jim & Cindy Hockenberger Charles & Holly Horner James Horth Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. Hotel Utica (Charles Gaetano) Sylvia Hough Warren & Joan House Kirk & Carolyn Hudson Caroline Hughes Francis & Kathy Humhrecht Joyce P. Hunt Melinda Hurley M. Grace Huther Jewell Hyde Indium Corporation & Macartney Family Foundation Gloria Mary Infusino Insight House Patricia O. Ireland Senatro & Jean Iuorno Vern & Peggy Jackson Irene O’Toole Jamieson Gary & Carol Jardieu Janice D. Jennings Sharon Jennings & Family Richard & Marilyn Joseph Wendy Jenkins Diane Jordan Alice F. Jury Marcia Kaczor Rita M. Kanfoush Harnel Kaplan

Amelia T. Karam Winifred R. Kauth Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Kearney Ann & Kevin Kelly Cynthia Kelly Rosemary K. Kelly George & Irene Kener George & Nancy Kennedy Kids Oneida Inc. Rita M. Kimball Frederick W. Kincaid Kirby’s c/o 2 Food Serv Inc. Alison Kirk Bill & Lynda Klein Patricia Klosek Marcia & Patrick Knapp Knights of St. John International, St. Anthony of Padua Commander #385, Msgr. Carl J. Denti Foundation, Inc. Martha Kodsy Raouf Kodsy, Phy P.C. Patricia Kogut Joanne Kolch Kimberly Kolch Michele Komacek Ray Kosiewicz Ed & Darcel Koziarz Betsy & George Kratzert & Family Nancy J. Kratzert Kratzert-Schreppel Family Dr. & Mrs. William R. Kritzler Pinny & George Kuckel Kathy Kulak Carolyn Kupiec Irene Kurtelawez Joan M. Kwasniewski Nicholas & Joan LaBella Jodi Labella Carol LaFache William F. Lafferty Connie & Francis LaGase Nicholas F. Laino, HCCC Foundation David & Suzanne LaLonde Brenda R. Lambert Kim Landon Ted & Nancy Lange Joseph LaPaglia Angelo O. Lapertosa David & Karen Larimer Carol & Bob Lawless LB Security Fran Leo Team Leonardsville Anthony C. Leone, Jr. Kathy Leslie Toby & Kathleen Levy Kevin Lieber Anneliese Light Christine Lindquist Thomas M. Lindsey Memorial Foundation Mirella Londeretta JoAnn Longo Josephine A. Longo Robert & Bonnie B. Loomis Amy Lopez Lisa Lopez Karen & Kathleen Lorraine. Lowe’s

Thomas & Linda Lowry Mrs. Joseph P. Lubertine Mary Ellen Luker Ellen V. Luley Thomas & Loretta Luley John Lusky Mr. & Mrs. Mario D. Macera, Sr. Carmel Eannace Maciolek Linda Mackos Linda Madia Richard & Dawn Maggiolino M. Malowielei Joann Mammone Lisa Mammone Billy Manfredo Maria R. Marafioti Nancy Cox Marafioti Marie E. Marchetti Linda Marcy Marcy Town Court JoAnn & Ken Mariano Martin & Earlene Marietta Kim & Kevin Maring Anthony, Jr. & Judith Mariotti Donald & Josephine Mark Bill & Joan Markis Eileen R. Markis Michael W. Markis Patricia & Stanley Markis Karleen M. Markowicz Carole Martin & Family Diane Martin Marcia & Wayne Martin Massoud’s Tree Farm Leonore & William Mastrangelo Betsey Matthews Phyllis & Mary Mattson Richard J. & Jean M. Matuszewski Ricardo J. Mauro, Esq. Dr. & Mrs. Theodore Max Jean & john Maziarz Albert Mazloom Thomas Mazza Brenda Mazza-Majka John & Patricia McCabe Cindy McCoy Thomas E. McCracken Robert McDermott Sharon McEwan Cecilia McGauley Christy McGibeny James F. McGowan Therese McGuire Bonnie L. McLean Lynda W. Metz Michael T’s Restaurant & Bar Lorna Michael Tony Mielnicki Elizabeth Militano Sara & Bill Militello Beverly R. Miller Candy Miller Anne & Paul Milograno Daniel & Kathleen Mineo Ryan & Rebecca Misencik Karen E. Kunkel Moldt Philip & Elizabeth Montana Philip & Marie Montana

Barbara Micante Monti Janet & Randy Moore John & Ludmilla Moore Roger & Joanna Moore Suzette Moore Teresa Morelle Dave Morgan Maria & Charles Moriarty Marie A. Morosco James & Karen Mortis Louis J. Mounser Bernice J. Mrzlikar Connie Mulcahy John F. Mulcahy, Jr. Peter & Ann Murray Dolores P. Musa Peter & Joanne Muskal Donna Mutolo Cynthia Napiorkowski Christopher & Sharon Nash National Property Inspections (Matt & Maddie Barlow) New Hartford American Legion Post 1376 New Hartford Teachers Assn. & Services of New Hartford Senior Center Dorace Newman Ray Niznik Julia & Carl Noeth John Nogas Richard E. & Cynthia A. Noon Paul V. Noyes Angela & Larry Obernesser Carol & Tim O'Connor Donald Olivadoti Omnicare Mr. & Mrs. James O’Looney Jean C. O'Neill Rev. Richard O’Neill Onsite Imaging, Inc. Assn. of Operating Room Nurses-Mohawk Valley Chapter (Frank B. Souza) Oriskany Retirees Organization Judith & Melvin Oster Sarah Ortolanio Edward & Janet O’Toole William & Helen Owens Adele M. Ozart Danielle Padula (Bella’s Event Planning) Joseph A. & JoAnn Palumbo Paniccia Family Sandra Paniccia Kimberly & Joseph Panko Janis M. Paolozzi Gabby Papale Paragon Fitness Center Parkway Drugs Kathleen Pasch Stephen Passalacqua A. Beverly Pellegrino Shelley Penge Ronald Pernat Betty M. Perrault Mr. & Mrs. John Perrone James & Barbara Perry James & Bernadette Peters Mary A. Peters Kathy Peters of Kathy’s Quills William & Margaret Pfieffer

James Pfisterer Daniel & Betsy Phillips Phoenician Restaurant David Pierce Ellen Pierno Diana M. Piperata Douglas & Karen Pirnie Sophie & George Pitman Theresa Pitrel Alayne Podeszek Poncell Construction Company Stephen & Mary Ann Powers Mary Austin Pratt Precision Computer Works, Jonathan Smith Presbyterian Women of Utica Presbytery of Utica James F. Pronteau Property Management Co. Inc. Chris & Rick Proulx Tim Pryputnewicz Camille Pryputniewicz Mickey & Carolyn Pryputniewicz Gerri Pryrtdewie Pugliese Pest Solutions, Inc. F. J. Pugliese Rosalie Piccolino Puleo Eugene & Mary Theresa Quadraro Radisson Hotel Steven Raffuel Emma R. Rauscher Stella & Ted Rdzanek Lisa Reynolds Barbara C. Rhodes Lucille Ricci Mary Lou Ricci Anna H. Richards Barbara J. Richards Marilyn Richards Mary Rieman Frances J. Rightmier & family Dominick & Joyce Robertello Michael & Lynn Roberts Dave & Cindy Roefaro Mr. & Mrs. Frank Roefaro Charles B. Rogers Nancy Rooney Rosa’s Italian Bakery Alan & Marsha Roseen Alan J. Rosenblum Matthew J. Ross (Med-Care Administrators, LLC) Joyce Rossi Rita Ann Rotundo Bridget Rubino Helen M. Rusinek Barbara & Jon Ryczek Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Saba, Jr. Rose R. Saba Louise H. Sally Lisle & Ceil Sanhorn Joe & Bridget Santa Maria Saratoga Hilton Scalzo, Zogby & Wittig Insurance, Inc. Anthony & Teresa Scalzo Scampone Real Estate Alma Scheidelman Nancy K. Schindler

James A. Schmidt Karl M. Schmidt Carl & Judy Schmitt Mary Schneider Joshua Schreppel Fred & Elaine Schwenzfeier Mr. & Mrs. Vincent Scialdone Kathleen M. Seeley Mary Ann Seelman SEFA for the Valley & Greater Utica Area Debbie & Dave Sellars Seneca Wine Neil Sexton George T. Sfeir Dr. & Mrs. A. Louis Shaheen Sara Shaheen Marsha Shahoud Caitlin Shenberger Francis A. Shenberger Patricia Shenberger Varinya Sheppard Patricia A. Sheridan Richard Sherman Patrick Shields Richard & Donna Shoemaker Dr. & Mrs. Richard Silverman Sharon & Anthony Sirianni Sisters of St. Joseph Anthony & Joanne Sisti Mr. & Mrs. Donald Skermont Terry J. Slocum SMS Services, Ron & Susan Miller Bill & Linda Smith Carmella & Douglas C. Smith Lewis & Jane Smith John B. & Marlene Snyder Dominic & Cathy Soldato Marie Soldato Sophie Soltys Daisy Spina George Sandy Srour St. Anthony of Padua Alumnae Assn. St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church St. Elizabeth Hospital Case Management Dept. St. Elizabeth Hospital School of Radiography (Freshman Class) St. Elizabeth Hospital School of Radiography (Senior Class) St. Elizabeth Medical Center St. Elizabeth’s Radiology Department St. Elizabeth’s X-Ray Department St. George Orthodox Church St. John’s Episcopal Church St. Joseph’s-St. Patrick’s Church St. Margaret’s Corp. of Utica St. Mary of Mount Carmel Blessed Sacrament Church St. Moura Ladies Society St. Patrick’s-St. Anthony’s Religion Class Augustine Stagliano Carmine & Mary Jane Stagliano Dick & Selwa Stemmer Priscilla Storm Strategic Investment Advisors, Inc. Jianna Stucchi Ann Sugate Jayne M. Synkowski

Diane Szablak Dolores Szczygiel SZW Services, Inc. Insurance Fred & Rosemary Talarico Joseph & Filomain Talerico Cynthia Tamer David & Dorothy Tauss & Son Maryanne B. Taverne Christine Taylor Fran Taylor Team Leonardsville Richard & Joanne Tehan The Hartford Scott & Eileen Tibbits Mike & Sue Timian Dennis & Helene Toczala Jeffrey & Roxanne Toczydlowski A Touch of Chocolate (Marlene Cieslak) Mr. & Mrs. Norman Toukatly Pat Toussant Arlene Trevisani Frank & Sandra Trevisani Rosa Trisolino Richard & Mickey Trombetta Daniel & Rick Trunfio Michael & Maryann Trunfio Stanley & Marie Trzepacz Mary Tupaj UFCW Charity Golf Classic UFCW, District Union Local One United Way of Central New York Utica First Insurance Company Utica Lodge #47 Dave & Mary Liz Valentine Karen & Bob Van Gorder Daniel Van Leeuwen Joan Varin Samuel & Catherine Vedete Frank & Sheila Vellone Julie Ann Venezio Jeanette Ventura John & Joanne Vetere Village Floral Fran Vitale Vincent’s Heating and Fuel Service Vineyard Christian Fellowship of Cambridge Dave Viti Home Improvements Jennifer A. Viti Lucy & Guy Viti A..Vitullo, Inc. Donna Vivero Duke Vorr Mary E. Vrooman Mary E. Walker Jenna & Kathleen Ward Ken & Carolyn Ward Michele & Ken Ward James W. Wattenschaidt Kelly Weaver Nancy & Donald Weimer Richard R. Welchons Robert C. & Carol J. Wheeler Richard & Diane White Timothy Wilcox Dennis & Roberta Wilson Linda J. Wilson Jamie Weiler

Richard Welchons Karen & Jim Winkler Kimberly Viti Witchley Joan S. Witte Gloria Wocek Matthew & Elizabeth Worth Robin Wrench Richard D. Wroblewski Russell M. Wuest James & Deborah Wurz Lucille Yagby Village of Yorkville Board of Trustees Carol H. Young Bradley Zacek Mr. & Mrs. Francis Zakris Ted & Carole Zaniewski Francesca S. Zarelli Valerie & Marty Zarnock Zion Lutheran Church Lorenzo L. Zizio Mary T. Zogby John Zuchowski

To Team Leonardsville for donating the funds to have our kitchen cabinets repainted. It created such a brighter space for

our guests & family to enjoy their meals with us.

to the anonymous donor who donated money to enhance our home with new furniture, bedding, curtains, televisions,

conference chairs, etc. You helped change our world for the better!

to Utica Lodge #47 for their ongoing support & their $2,000 annual donation to the Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida

Counties, Inc. for a $5,402 grant for consultants to assist us with a strategic plan.

to The Indium Corporation & Macartney Family Foundation for their generous donation of $10,000.

Board Spotlight Thank you to Joe Saba for his leadership as Board President. We are so pleased that Joe will continue as a member of our Board. Thank you to Candy Miller who served well as Secretary all these years. Thank you to Judy Galimo for her new role as Secretary.

New Board President: Albert Shaw, Jr.

Al joined our Board in 2012 and brought with him his skills of leadership and management. Shaw’s professional experience includes 34 years in the educational system. He retired recently from the position as the Director of Special Education for Whitesboro Central School District. Al resides in Utica and has a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from Utica College and a C.A.S. and S.D.A. from SUNY Cortland. He is currently an adjunct Professor in the Education Department at SUNY College at Cortland. Al serves on the R.C.I.L, Good News Foundation & St. John the Evangelist Church Boards.

New Board Member: Deacon Paul Salamy Deacon Paul is currently employed by Oneida County BOCES as a Teacher of Incarcerated Youth. He has a B.A. in Secondary Education/English. Deacon Paul resides in Utica and was ordained a Permanent Deacon in 1995. He serves the St. Louis Gonzaga as well as the Catholic Community at large and facilitates bereavement support groups for his parish.

WISH LIST

Baby Wipes Bottled Water (small bottles) Canada Dry Ginger Ale-

(small bottles) Clorox

Clorox Wipes Crackers Creamora

Fruit Packs High Efficiency

Laundry Detergent

Ice Melt/Pellets Postage Stamps Utica City Blue

Bags (large)

Gift Cards: Grocery Stores Office Supplies

Hardware Stores

“Every house where love abides and

friendship is a guest, is surely home, and

home sweet home for there the heart can

rest” By Henry Van Dyke

Volunteer Spotlight:

Welcome To Our New Volunteers:

John Carroll Kathy Crofoot Suveera Dang

Christina Elacqua

Jenny Emmi Sean Farrell Pam Flemma Erma Gaspa

Renee Heiland Linda Huckabone Anne Mercurio-

Dunn Barbie Piacenti Sharon Waite-

Swift

Wanted: Buddies: Do you want to be a buddy for our guests? Buddies do not do personal care unless they want to be trained. Wanted: Caregivers who are willing to do personal care. Training is provided. Call 733-8210.

Page 8

5th Annual Gala

Abraham House Notes of Appreciation

We raised approximately $25, 000 from our 5th Annual Gala. All money goes to the operations of Abraham House to ensure our mission continues of providing loving care free of charge to our terminally ill neighbors and friends. We thank the people who came out to support us that evening and also to the individuals who made donations to the Gala who were not able to attend. Thank you to all who supported our Ad book and donated to our Silent and Live Auction. Thank you to the following individuals and businesses:

Dave Morgan & staff of the Blue Flag Room & Hotel Utica *Carmela Caruso for Caruso’s Pastry Shoppe for their delicious centerpiece cakes

*Peter Maneen of Maneen Studio for capturing our Gala event *Playin’ Again for their gift of music

*Coriale Flowers for their beautiful flowers

THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING SPONSORS: AmeriCu Credit Union, Eannace Funeral Home, Dr. Raouf Kodsy & UFCW Union Local One

Thank you to the Gala Planning Committee for the fabulous job they did in creating such a wonderful event. What a great team you make!

Mike Viti, Chairperson Sylvia Hough Nancy EannaceViti Mary Theresa Quadraro Martha Kodsy Tom & Flo DeSimone Lucy Viti Brenda Mazza-Majka Kimberly Viti Witchley Joyce Rossi Michele Ward

A special thank you goes out to Nancy Eannace Viti and Eannace Funeral Home for all their financial support over the years and also the hours of dedicated time Nancy and her staff devote to assisting us with many of our fundraisers, not just the Gala. You’ve been a great friend to the House and we really appreciate it!

“The tide recedes, but leaves behind bright sea shells on the sand. The sun goes down, but gentle warmth still lingers on the land. The music stops and yet it echoes on in sweet refrain, for every joy that passes something beautiful remains.” unknown Page 9

3rd Annual Festival of Wreaths

Abraham House is pleased to announce the 2012 winners for wreaths designers from The Festival of Wreaths, which was held Sunday, November 20 at Valentino’s Banquet Hall in New Hartford. There were 101 wreaths submitted by local businesses and individuals that the public voted on as their favorites in four categories. There were so many stunning wreaths it was hard to choose from them all. Here are your winners: “Christmas Tea Time” designed by St. Elizabeth School of Radiology-Senior Class won for Most Original. “A Soldier’s Christmas designed by Kelly Rossi won Best of Theme. “Gift of Love” designed by Rita Rotundo won Best of Show. “Blinging in Christmas” designed by Linda Hill won Children’s Choice.

Thank you to our 2012 Festival of Wreaths Sponsors: Valentino’s Banquet Hall Kirby’s Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. Massoud’s Tree Farms Michael T’s Restaurant

Thank you to Mike Viti, DJ , Utica College Child Life Society, Chi Beta Sigma Sorority, Robert & Diana Piperata, Melissa Camman, Michele Ward and Mindy Hurley for making it such a successful event. Maria & Chuck Moriarty from Valentino’s were fabulous to work with for the entire Festival of Wreaths. Thank you to our Festival of Wreaths Committee: Patty Shenberger, Judy Galimo, Joyce Rossi, Cheryl Bowen, Linda Mackos, Edward Anderson & Amanda Conte. We raised over $5,000 from your great work. Thank you to all those who tapped into their creative side and made such beautiful wreaths. The Festival of Wreaths is always the Sunday before Thanksgiving. It is not too early to start thinking about and planning for your next wreaths. Abraham House is pleased to announce we are offering our first bereavement support group exclusively

for the family and friends of a loved one who died at Abraham House.

Starts: Wednesday, April 3, 2013

6:30-8:00 p.m.

New Hartford Presbyterian Church

45 Genesee St. New Hartford

Meets for six Wednesdays in a row

Led by our volunteer, Paul Butnoris, who has extensive experience in compassionately supporting the

bereaved from facilitating support groups and individual counseling. Pre-registration is required for these

free sessions by calling 733-8210.

Page 10

Honoring One of our Own

One of our very own volunteers, Michele Ward, received a prestigious award during St. Elizabeth Medical Center’s 146 anniversary celebration in December 2012. Michele received the Mother Berardina Award, which is named after the Medical Center’s founder and is presented to an employee. The winner of this award is chosen by Medical Center employees for significant contributions to the Medical Center, exemplifying its mission, vision and philosophy and for always going the extra mile. Michele has been employed at the Medical Center for 32 years. She is currently an angiography technologist in the Radiology Department. Michele has been a volunteer with Abraham House since 2008 as a surrogate caregiver and with our fundraising events. Congratulations Michele!

Michele Ward and Mr. Richard Ketcham, President/CEO of St. Elizabeth Medical Center _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Abraham House is now able to take credit cards for Visa and MasterCard for regular and memorial donations, for ticket sales and during fundraising events. For advance tickets, please complete the form below and enclose in attached envelope.

March Meatball Madness Tickets- March 3 (Send ticket request by Monday, February 25th)

$10.00 x _________ = $____________ Adult Tickets to March Meatball Madness $5.00 x __________ = $____________ Kid Tickets to March Meatball Madness

Steve Falvo’s Easy Money Big Band-April 20 $20.00 x _________ = $____________ Adult Tickets to Steve Falvo’s Easy Money Big Band

“Singing Sensations” Talent Show-May 17 $10.00 x _________ = $____________ Adult Tickets to Talent Show $5.00 x __________ = $____________ Kid Tickets to Talent Show (18 years and under) Total Amount enclosed for tickets:$____________________________ Credit Card __Visa __MasterCard Card Number________________________________ Expiration Date:__________________________ Signature __________________________________ If you are unable to attend any of the above events, but would like to support Abraham House, please send your tax deductible donation in the enveloped provided in this newsletter. Thank you.

For State Employees, Abraham House is listed under our legal name, Comfort House.

Abraham House does not receive any grant funds through United Way. We

can receive your designated donations by writing Abraham House on your pledge form. Page 11

Abraham House Non-Profit Org. 1203 Kemble Street U.S. Postage Paid Utica, NY 13501 Utica, NY Permit No. 30

Just like hummingbirds, with the magical whisper of their wings, there is something in our soul that wants to hover at beautiful moments in our lives, making them freeze in time. There is something in us that wants to fly backwards and savor once more the beautiful past. The hummingbird is the messenger of these beautiful moments. We at Abraham House embrace the hummingbird for never losing faith and reminding us of those moments we all want to savor.

Printed by PJ Green, Inc. : February 2013

Hope is the thing with feathers

That perches in the soul, And sings the tune without the words,

And never stops at all.” Emily Dickinson