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July 24, 2025
Dear Residents and Families,
Happy Summer! I hope everyone is enjoying the warm weather and all the outdoor spaces our campus’ have to offer.
We are looking forward to the staff appreciation parties beginning in July and continuing into August. Chelsea Jewish Lifecare’s employees are the absolute best and it’s important to let them know how much we appreciate them.
In May we had three staff members graduate from the LeadingAge Leadership Academy: Eleanor Langstaff (Director of the Adult Day Health Center, Peabody), Kitabou Minteh (Director of Nursing, Leonard Florence Center for Living, Chelsea) and Jennifer Fazekas (Director of Marketing, Chelsea). You can read about the program and these outstanding individuals elsewhere in this newsletter.
Sally Little, Food Service Manager in Peabody, is in the news. Sally, who was asked back to the LeadingAge Leadership Academy as a Teacher’s Assistant, is also a recent recipient of the 2025 Dining Distinction Award. Congratulations Sally!
Last, but certainly not least, we held a birthday “high tea” celebration on July 17th for six Kaplan Estates residents who are turning 100 this year. They range in age from 100 to 111! These centenarians are an inspiration to us all.
My best,
Megin
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July 9, 2025
[L-R: Eleanor Langstaff, Kitabou Minteh, Jennifer Fazekas and Sally Little]
Congratulations are in order for Chelsea Jewish Lifecare staff members who recently graduated from the 2025 LeadingAge Massachusetts Leadership Academy. This is an incredible accomplishment for all!
Graduates include Eleanor Langstaff LICSW, Executive Director, Shapiro-Rudolph Adult Day Health Center, Peabody; Kitabou Minteh, RN BSN, Director of Nursing, Leonard Florence Center for Living, Chelsea; Jennifer Fazekas, Director of Marketing, The Estates on Admiral’s Hill, Chelsea. Additionally, Sally Little, Food Service Manager, Peabody, a past participant in the program, was asked back this year to be a Teacher’s Assistant, which is an impressive tribute.
“Being selected to take the Leadership class with LeadingAge was a true honor,” said Jennifer Fazekas, Director of Marketing for the Chelsea Campus. “The class strives to have each participant grow into their best selves, so they may further the aspirations of their organizations in the field of aging services.”
Jen noted that the program was important to her professional growth.” As a participant, I felt like this was a deep dive into myself, which in turn opened my mind to see things in a different light. I now have a deeper understanding of how to navigate difficult conversations, conflicts, and resolutions. The tools that this class has provided me with have allowed me to further build trust with colleagues and customers, moving towards the ultimate goal of enhancing our organization’s mission to better serve the aging population.”
The LeadingAge Massachusetts Leadership Academy is a powerful, nine-month experience that cultivates connection, insight, and personal transformation. It is unique in terms of training programs as it is designed specifically for aging services professionals. Specifically, the Academy helps participants uncover their unique leadership strengths, deepen emotional intelligence, and develop the tools to lead with purpose and impact.
Eleanor Langstaff, Executive Director, Shapiro-Rudolph Adult Day Health Center, remarked how valuable the leadership program was for her. “I learned a lot about myself and ways to improve my leadership style,” explained Langstaff. “The biggest takeaway was the importance of keeping the big picture in mind of providing the best care for our day center participants when addressing difficult situations. The course also reinforced for me the importance of working as a team, reinforcing one of my favorite sayings: ‘Teamwork makes the dream work!’ Added Langstaff, “I am very grateful to Legacy Lifecare for the opportunity to attend the Academy.”
Megin Hemmerling, Regional President Chelsea Jewish Lifecare, congratulated the graduates and remarked upon the program’s long-term impact. “We are so proud of you all for completing this prestigious program,” said Hemmerling. “Your commitment to leadership and growth strengthens our entire organization. We can’t wait to see the impact you will continue to have in our organization!”
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July 28, 2025
Charley Kanter, a beloved resident at Cohen Florence Levine Estates Assisted Living, was recently honored at the Massachusetts Assisted Living Association (Mass-ALA) Excellence Awards Dinner. Kanter received the Resident Spirit Award, which is presented every year to a resident who embodies the heart and soul of their assisted living community. The award highlights residents who are actively engaged, supportive of others, and who make a meaningful impact on the lives of their fellow residents.
“We are all thrilled that Charley Kanter was recognized by Mass-ALA,” said Kristen Donnelly, Executive Director of Cohen Florence Levine Estates Assisted Living. “He’s such a cherished member of our community, helping with activities and bringing joy to residents and staff alike. Charley lights up a room the moment he enters.”
Charley, a young 100, was born and raised on a farm in Connecticut and settled in Springfield, MA with his wife and two daughters. Charley made his living selling and distributing eggs. At 65, he retired to Florida, soaking up the sun until, at age 90, he moved back to Massachusetts. Today, a resident at Cohen Florence Levine Estates Assisted Living, Charley is fond of saying,” I am now living the best part of my life!”
Donnelly echoed the sentiments of everyone in the Chelsea Jewish Lifecare/Legacy Lifecare organization. “Watching Charley accept this award and receive a well-deserved standing ovation was truly inspiring,” said Donnelly. “We feel so fortunate to have him live in our community.”
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July 23, 2025
The Boston Herald
Story by: Stuart Cahill
Photography by [above photo]: Mark Stockwell
A birthday celebration honoring six remarkable women, ranging in age from 100 to 111, was held at Kaplan Estates on Thursday, July 17. Cupcakes and tea were on the menu for the astounding residents.
Click here to view pictures and listen to the story.
Peabody Weekly News & Itemlive
Story by: Amanda Lurey
Photography by: Amanda Lurey
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July 23, 2025
Activities are in full swing at Kaplan Estates and Brudnick Center for Living. From blooming gardens to festive celebrations, residents and staff have been enjoying the bounties of summer. Here’s a look at the memorable moments that have brought our communities together:
Planting the Seed
The residents at Harriett and Ralph Kaplan Estates enjoyed participating in a Horticulture Group Activity. This class was a collaborative effect lead by Jennifer Ferringo COTA & Chrissy Riley PT with Legacy Lifecare VNA as well as Laurie Faria, Activities Assistant, at Kaplan Estates. Occupational Therapy utilizes horticulture planting therapy to improve cognitive skills, motor skills, social interaction, strengthening and fine motor coordination. Physical Therapy was incorporated to focus on standing balance and lower body strengthening while performing planting. The residents planted succulents and seeds for wildflowers and herbs. We can’t wait to see them grow!
School Days
Shapiro-Rudolph ADHC participants and director Eleanor Langstaff enjoyed lunch at the student-run café at Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School in Wakefield. In addition, our organization partners with the school’s nursing program, enabling some of the sophomore students to volunteer at our Adult Day Health Center while members of the junior class help out at Brudnick Center. It’s an enjoyable and informative experience for all.
Nursing Home Week
The Peabody campus hosted activities for this year’s Nursing Home Week in honor of the remarkable nurses in our organization. Our staff were delighted to sample specialties from the renowned Kowloon restaurant in Saugus. Kowloon brought their mobile truck for lunch for all Brudnick employees. Residents were treated to delicious root beer floats while listening to Zigy, one of their favorite entertainers. In addition, memory and long-term residents had a great day outside in the courtyard enjoying a festive luau. Everyone agreed that the best part of the day was the fact that they were all together.
Sassy Pot Ladies
Over at Kaplan, residents stepped back in time to reminisce about fashion trends of days gone by. Take a look at the cute pots they created using curlers, retro glasses, and bandannas. Such creativity! The ladies loved the finished products. Next up: adding plants to these colorful pots.
Hats Off to Our Residents
The ladies of Kaplan Estates beat the heat this summer with a bevy of stunning hats. Residents participated in a hat decorating activity, using colorful straw hats, flowers, and butterflies. Once the hats were completed, residents modeled their creations outside at a photo shoot. Summer never looked this good!
Over 100 and Going Strong!
Kaplan Estates honored six assisted living residents who have reached the remarkable milestone of turning 100. Residents included Florence Fournier (100), Jennie Ruggerio (101), Alice Wallack (102), Marie Cassidy (104), Kay Morocco (105), and Rose Regis (111).
Amidst singing, dancing and much laughter, residents and staff savored a “High Tea” with traditional English tea sandwiches and assorted decorative cupcakes. Musical entertainer Alan LaBella, a beloved favorite, had the crowd clapping and tapping. Barbara Lee, Director of Resident Life, emceed the event and distributed honorary certificates to each of the birthday gals. Take a look at the photos from the party. Happy Birthday to our ladies. You are an inspiration to us all!
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July 7, 2025
We are pleased to announce that Sally Little CDM, CFPP, Food Service Manager, received the prestigious 2025 Dining Distinction Award from the Association of Nutrition & Food Service Professionals. The award was presented at the Annual Conference & Expo in Bloomington, MN.
“We are thrilled that Sally Little is the recipient of such a notable award,” said Megin Hemmerling, Regional President of Chelsea Jewish Lifecare. “Sally is an integral part of our organization; her energy, leadership, and unwavering positivity make her a true asset to the field—and a most deserving recipient of this award.”
Little joined Chelsea Jewish Lifecare in 2005 and has held various positions within the Dietary Department. Little holds an associate’s degree in culinary arts/chef training from Norh Shore Community College and is a Certified Dietary Manager and Certified Food Protection Professional (CDM, CFPP). With more than 22 years of experience in senior nutrition and foodservice, Sally combines culinary expertise with a deep commitment to resident-centered care.
“I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Chelsea Jewish Lifecare for their unwavering support and commitment to excellence,” said Little. “It is a privilege to be part of an organization that values innovation, compassion, and quality.” She added, “This recognition honors an incredible team that strives every day to provide exceptional dining experiences while inspiring us to keep raising the standard for nutrition and food service excellence.”
Sally, along with her husband and two children, reside in southern New Hampshire. Outside of work, she enjoys crafting, playing softball, and creating new recipes in her kitchen.
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July 2, 2025
[Sheryl Birenbaum, Andrew Birenbaum, Amanda, Theo, Mark Singer, Steven Birenbaum, Paula, Amelia Linehan, Brad, Riley, Chase, Logan, Elaine Silver, Howard Silver and Evan]
Three years ago, Mark Singer, 70, suffered a major stroke while playing golf, a sport he enjoyed at least three times a week. It was unexpected as Singer was in good health, incredibly active and ran a financial planning firm on the North Shore. He loved his job and never considered retirement. Additionally, Singer was a contributor to the Lynn Item and wrote four books on financial wellness and retirement.
As a result of the stroke, Mark lost his ability to speak, swallow, eat and even perform the most basic functions. He required a feeding tube for months. His recovery started at Lahey Clinic and continued at Spaulding Rehabilitation; he was transferred to the Brudnick Center for Living 2 ½ years ago. Through intense physical therapy and a passion for rebuilding his life, Mark can now walk 33 steps at a time and converse with his usual eloquence, charm, and wit.
“I am a financial planner, but I never planned for this,” admits Singer. “I don’t think anyone ever does. But when a crisis happens, you deal with it the best you can. And sometimes, as in my case, it gives you a whole new perspective.”
For Mark, the hardest part of this experience was his loss of independence. Before his stroke, he was doing ten things at once. “I loved keeping busy with my family, my job and various activities, but in hindsight, I realized was never really present.” Mark cites his new ability to remember names as an example. “Before my stroke, I never remembered people’s names. I was always trying to do a million different things. Now, when I am introduced to a person, I take the time to repeat the name and memorize the face. I want to get to know them. In fact, the staff at the Brudnick Center are always asking me the names of visitors!”
Mark loves that his friends and family members pop into the Brudnick often throughout the day. “It’s such a welcoming environment and I really do feel like it’s home.” Most days, he can be found taking exercise classes and playing trivia. “And whenever there’s a poker game, I’m in!” He also enjoys hearing the birds chirp, a pastime he never had time for before. “My mom loved birds. Now I make sure I go outside every day and listen to the birds chirping. I think of her each time.”
Singer credits the Brudnick Center staff for making the skilled nursing residence such a special place. “The staff is utterly amazing. They possess the unique ability to create a sense of community. You can tell they really care about the residents.” He is also impressed with how the organization treats both staff and residents. “From the top down, they treat every person with dignity and respect. That’s rare.”
There is no doubt that Mark’s family is his top priority. His partner Sheryl, their four children and five grandchildren are his greatest joy. Like every grandparent, he can’t resist bragging a bit. “Three years ago, I took my eleven-year-old granddaughter, Lailani, to try-out for the gymnastics team. She left in tears because she didn’t make the team. Last month she won the State Gymnastics Championship,” he said proudly. “She too learned the importance of hard work, perseverance and to ‘never give up.’ Guess that’s the new family motto,” he said with a laugh.
Today, Singer gives motivational talks all over the North Shore. Recently he addressed a group of financial planners at the Four Seasons Hotel in Boston, stressing the importance of trust and teamwork. He also just completed yet another book and is collaborating with an editor prior to publication. And while he’s still mulling over titles, the book’s message is clear: “Slow down, be patient, celebrate the small victories, and enjoy life!”
Without a doubt, Mark Singer is enjoying every day to the fullest.
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May 28, 2025
Executive Director of Cohen Florence Levine Estates and Chefetz & Florence Home for Specialized Care
Kristen Donnelly knew she chose the right career path after speaking with one of her assisted living residents. “This is the best time of my life!” exclaimed 100-year old Charlie Kanter. For Kristen, it was the ultimate reward. “There is nothing better than knowing our residents are happy and fulfilled,” remarked Kristen.
After graduating from Westfield State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications, Kristen embarked upon a teaching career but quickly realized it was not the right choice for her. She explored different options, ending up in the fundraising department of the ALS Association. While there, Kristen met Barry Berman and Judy Mastrocola (a former longtime LFCL staff member) and the three stayed in touch. Kristen worked for a year at the Muscular Dystrophy Association and then found her professional home at Chelsea Jewish Lifecare. She joined the organization as Walk Director for the ALS/MS Walk for Living, transitioned to CFLE Marketing Director and then became Executive Director.
Growing up in Boston’s western suburbs, Kristen split her time between Newton and Natick after her parents separated when she was young. “The divorce worked to my benefit because I hit the jackpot with an amazing stepmom and stepdad!” said Kristen. She and her husband Alan grew up a few streets apart from each other, first crossed paths in middle school and started dating at age 15! After marrying in 2010, the couple embarked upon building a life together. First came Lily, a beautiful black lab, who lived to the age of 14, passing away just last year. Kristen and Alan have two amazing boys, Sean (10) and Tommy (7). Both play elite club hockey as well as baseball. It is a very busy, sports-oriented household!
The residents are a key reason why Kristen loves working at the at The Estates on Admiral’s Hill. “I truly enjoy sitting down with the residents and talking about everything,” said Kristen. “Plus, they always give me great advice!” She also believes the environment in the Chelsea assisted living is unique. “When you enter CFLE, you will often hear the staff singing and the residents laughing. There is a lightness about the staff here that I believe is rare. Most importantly, the quality of care is exceptional. Our staff takes the best care of the residents. They are family.”
Reflecting on which individuals had the biggest impact upon her career, Kristen was quick to mention staff members. “Judy Mastrocola, who I worked with for many years on the Walk for Living, taught me early on just to be myself. Megin Hemmerling showed me the realities of being an Executive Director and how to incorporate balance into my life. Last but certainly not least, Mrs. Mullen set a wonderful example for me on how to lead with heart.” Kristen is also grateful to the Bermans. “I feel blessed to work for Mr. Berman and Adam,” said Kristen. “They have given me such wonderful opportunities. I am just thankful that they have believed in me!”
In her spare time, Kristen and her husband can be found at her sons’ games, which usually involve a hockey rink. An avid reader, Kristen read 65 books last year and is currently on number 30 this year. Most days she makes time for Pilates. “It keeps me sane,” said Kristen with a laugh. Family and friends are important to Kristen. “I love spending time with my with my family and cherish the friends I grew up with. These relationships mean the world to me.”
As Executive Director, Kristen’s goal is, quite simply, to keep the residents happy. “I want our residents to feel like they are living life to the fullest,” explained Kristen. “Health and longevity are my passion. Studies have shown that ‘blue zones’ – areas where people live exceptionally long lives – can be attributed to a sense of community. More than anything, I want to give my residents the community that they need to thrive and live long, beautiful lives.”
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May 12, 2025
Skilled Nursing Residence Receives Deficiency-Free Survey!
Click below to read the story in various publications!
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May 2, 2025
[Photo caption: Staff at Katzman Family Center for Living Celebrate Achieving Deficiency-Free Survey!]
The Katzman Family Center for Living recently achieved a deficiency-free survey. This designation, conducted by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, means that the skilled nursing residence adheres to the highest standards of care, safety, and quality, with no violations or deficiencies.
“We are so pleased to have earned a deficiency-free survey,” said Ginny Person, Licensed Nursing Home Administrator at Katzman Family Center for Living. “This achievement would not have been possible without the hard work, dedication, and loyalty of every single person on our staff. The survey highlights our commitment to providing exceptional, high-quality care to our residents.”
Person noted that the survey is a valuable tool for prospective residents and families. “Receiving a deficiency-free survey means individuals can expect the highest level of care,” explained Person. “This is an important consideration when choosing short-term rehab, long-term care, and memory support.”
Katzman Family Center for Living, the flagship property of Chelsea Jewish Lifecare, was founded to create individualized care in a real home setting. After undergoing a dramatic $16 million renovation, the skilled nursing residence reflects the Green House® model of care, with an abundance of open spaces, natural light, and kitchens on every floor.
Congratulations to everyone at Katzman Family Center for Living. Your dedication, hard work and attention to detail made this significant achievement possible!
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