Press Releases

Terry G. Stone
Community Outreach
(321) 269-4240
(321) 269-5428-fax
commreach@cfl.rr.com

BACK TO CURRENT PRESS RELEASES

DR. SUE MITRA INVITES PUBLIC TO OPEN HOUSE

MELBOURNE, FL – Sue Mitra, M.D. will hold an Open House at her office on Wednesday, October 13, 2010 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Dr. Mitra invites the public to come out to meet her and her staff. Her office is located at 6769 Imperial Plaza, the building behind Fiesta Azteca on Wickham Road.

Talk one-on-one to Dr. Mitra and learn what she can do for her patients. She is board certified in Internal Medicine and works closely with her patients on a variety of issues. Refreshments will be available. Dr. Mitra’s Open House is sponsored by Amedysis Home Health Services and Hospice of St. Francis.

For more details or more information, please visit www.suemitra.com

THIRD ANNUAL “FALL SENIOR HEALTH FAIR”

Titusville, FL – North Brevard Association of Health Services (NBAMS) will be hosting its third annual “Fall Senior Health Fair” on Thursday, October 21, 2010 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Hospice of St. Francis located at 1250-B Grumman Place, Titusville 32780 (corner of SR405 and Grissom Parkway). Admission is free, parking is free and the public is welcome to attend.

This free event presents a wide array of services and products with more than 30 senior-focused vendors providing free health screenings, information and giveaways. Each attendee registered at the health fair will enjoy a free continental breakfast, entertainment, meeting pet therapy animals and will be eligible for a chance to win one of many door prizes. For additional information on the health fair and its offerings, please call 321-890-7693.

North Brevard Association of Health Services is a networking organization of professionals in the health services industry, which meets monthly and focuses on education and networking. It was established in an effort to increase awareness of north county community providers, thereby improving services available to the community.

HOSPICE EMPLOYEE HONORED FOR TWENTY YEARS OF SERVICE

BREVARD COUNTY, FL – Hospice of St. Francis recognized Pat Rouse for 20 years of service by presenting her with an Employee Service Award, at a recent company meeting. Pat celebrated her 20th anniversary with Hospice of St. Francis on July 1, 2010. She was hired as the first Home Health Aide/Certified Nursing Assistant when Hospice of St. Francis transitioned to an organization with paid employees. The year was 1990, and Hospice of St. Francis' office was in one room of a building in downtown Titusville.

Currently, Pat holds the position of DME/Supply Coordinator. She stays very busy maintaining the inventory of medical supplies, ordering durable medical equipment for patients and staffing for crisis care.

Recently, Pat reflected back on her career by saying, “My hospice career has been a fabulous journey. I love what I do, and I am learning something new all the time. It has been exciting for me to be a member of such a top notch staff and to watch Hospice of St. Francis grow. Bruce Wolters, Executive Director, and our Board of Directors have been terrific leaders guiding us through our growth to become the organization we are today. Time has gone so fast, but I still have the dream of seeing a hospice house with Hospice of St. Francis on the sign.”

“Pat has been an invaluable employee for many years,” commented Bruce Wolters, Executive Director. “We are thankful for her dedication to caring for our patients and her loyalty to our organization.”

Hospice of St. Francis began operating in 1977 as a totally volunteer run organization. In 1990, Hospice of St. Francis applied for and received its State of Florida license to operate in Brevard County as a 501 (c) 3 hospice organization. In addition to providing hospice services to patients, other programs include--North Star, child grief support program; Adult Bereavement Program; Partners in Compassionate Care, volunteer training and assignment program; Caregiver Education and Resource Program and Pet Therapy Program. These programs are available to any Brevard County resident free of charge.

For more information on our hospice services and programs, please call 321-269-4240, toll free 866-269-4240 or visit our website at www.hospiceofstfrancis.com.

Brevard’s Senior Health Experts Present Healing Arts Symposium

Melbourne, FL--- Buena Vida Estates, Hospice of St. Francis, Cancer Care Centers of Brevard and WellCare are hosting The Healing Arts Symposium. The second of a series of senior wellness events, The Healing Arts Symposium will be held in the Rotunda and Studio Theatre at the Maxwell C. King Center for the Performing Arts located at 3865 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne, FL on Wednesday, July 28, 2010 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

This informative event is free to the public and healthcare professionals and includes the latest information on senior health and wellness issues. Event speakers, who are experts in their field, will be available for questions and answers following their presentations.

Discussions include:
“Can CyberKnife Treat Your Cancer?” by Ravi Shankar, MD, Board Certified Radiation Oncologist with Cancer Care Centers of Brevard.

“Balance for Life” by Christy Tagye, OTR/L, Rehab Specialty Director with Amedisys Home Health.

“The Healing Power of Music” by Dale Olsen, Harpist with Hospice of St. Francis.

“The Importance of Socialization” by Don Spalding, Gerontologist and Executive Director with Buena Vida Estates.

The symposium will include senior service exhibits with professional representatives available to answer your questions and share the latest information and trends in senior services. A representative from the Veterans Administration will be available to discuss your “V.A. Benefits”.

Attendees will enjoy complimentary refreshments, musical performances by Dale Olsen, Harpist, and entertainment by area dance groups. For additional information, please call Buena Vida Estates at 321-724-0060.

"BREVARD'S BEST SALSA" WINNERS CELEBRATE

BREVARD COUNTY, FL – More than 1,300 people came out to enjoy the Sixth Annual Fiesta Brevard, a collaborative fundraising event for 30 Brevard County non-profit organizations. The event was held at the International Palms Resort in Cocoa Beach on Friday, May 7, 2010. Along with all the fiesta fun and over $30,000 in prizes being awarded to attendees, there was major celebrating going on with the winners of the salsa contest.

In the Judge’s Choice division, the winners are:
1st Place – Community Service Council’s “Confetti Salsa”
2nd Place – Hospice of St. Francis’ “Heavenly Heat”
3rd Place – 3-way tie between Chapparral Mexican Grill’s “Leoncito Picante”,
“Mary’s Downtown Salsa” and WEGO Ministries’ “Glory Girls Salsa”

In the People’s Choice division, the winners are:
1st Place – “Mary’s Downtown Salsa”
2nd Place – 2-way tie between WEGO Ministries’ “Glory Girls Salsa” and Irma & Arturo
Nieto’s “Habanero Hottie” (last year’s winner of Judge’s Choice)
3rd Place – Hospice of St. Francis’ “Heavenly Heat”

Fiesta Brevard is a fundraising project organized by the Non-Profit Task Force Committee of the Cocoa Beach Area Chamber of Commerce. The Non-Profit Task Force Committee was formed to help provide support to Brevard County non-profit chamber member organizations through education and fundraising projects. The Seventh Annual Fiesta Brevard will be held next year on a date to be announced!

Brevard Heritage Council winners of the Best Dressed Booth Contest.	Mary and Roy Daugherty, first place winners of the People's Choice.

HOSPICE OFFERS FREE CAREGIVER CLASSES

TITUSVILLE, FL - Caring for another person is often one of the most emotional and demanding experiences a person may face in their lifetime. The Caregiving Education and Resource Program at Hospice of St. Francis provides the education and support necessary to “Care for the Caregiver” – both current and future. At some point in our lives, we will have to be the caregiver for someone. This program consists of a six-one and a half hour classes. The classes are designed to teach caregivers how to care for themselves as they care for others. The training class is offered at no cost to all Brevard County residents.

Each class focuses on a different caregiver issue:

Class 1: The Experience of Caregiving – What is our commonality?

Class 2: Important Decisions and Communication - How do we make and whom do we tell about our Advance Directives?

Class 3: Community and Personal Relationships – Are we as alone as we think?

Class 4: Care of Self with Care of Others – How can we do both?

Class 5: Meaning, Purpose and Finality of Life – What needs to be done at life’s end, and what does death look like?

Class 6: Grief and Bereavement – What’s normal, and how do we know?

The upcoming six class session of Caregiving in the Last Years begins on Thursday, June 3, 2010 from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. and will be held at Sunflower House located in Merritt Square Mall. Classes will be held on Thursdays and Tuesdays for three weeks. Please contact Barbara Borman, RN, at 321-269-4240, ext. 330 or e-mail her at caregiving@hospiceofstfrancis.com.

Hospice of St. Francis (HOSF) was established in Brevard County in 1977. HOSF is a local, non-sectarian, non-profit organization that serves the needs of terminally ill patients and their families. In addition to caring for the terminally ill and providing the Caregiver Education and Resource Program, HOSF offers adult grief support groups, memorial services, individual pastoral counseling and child grief support through the North Star Program. For more information on these programs and hospice services, please call 321-269-4240/toll free 866-269-4240 or check our website at www.hospiceofstfrancis.com.

SEEKING “PARTNERS IN COMPASSIONATE CARE” FOR VOLUNTEER TRAINING

Titusville, FL--Hospice of St. Francis (HOSF) is seeking caring people who would like to become volunteers. HOSF volunteers provide assistance in many different ways, including making friendly visits to hospice patients, providing respite care for homebound patients, running errands and performing much needed office support and many other services. No previous experience is needed.

Training is provided at no cost to the participants. Volunteer positions are available throughout Brevard County. The new training class will begin on Thursday, June 10, 2010 and conclude on Tuesday, June 29, 2010. The class runs for three weeks on Thursdays and Tuesdays from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Hospice of St. Francis’ office, 1250-B Grumman Place, Titusville, FL 32780. For more information or to register for the volunteer training classes, please call Vicky Hamilton, Volunteer Coordinator, at 321-269-4240 or 866-269-4240 (toll free).

Hospice of St. Francis is a local, non-sectarian, non-profit organization. Established in 1977, Hospice of St. Francis was Brevard County’s first hospice. HOSF continues to provide care for terminally ill patients and support for their loved ones. For more information on HOSF programs, please call 321-269-4240/866-269-4240 (toll free) or visit our website at www.hospiceofstfrancis.com.

HOSPICE OFFERS NEW ADULT GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP MEETINGS AT WATERSONG

VIERA, FL – Hospice of St. Francis adult bereavement program will begin offering a bi-weekly grief support group meeting at Watersong Retirement Community. Beginning January 12, 2010, meetings will be held every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month in the Watersong Clubhouse from 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon. Watersong Retirement Community is located at 7300 Watersong Lane, Viera, FL 32940.

Anyone who has lost a loved one and needs help coping with the loss is welcome. Private counseling sessions are also available by appointment. The service is free to any Brevard County resident.

To register for the adult grief support group or arrange for a private counseling session, please call Vivian Vayer, BSW at 321-269-4240/ 866-269-4240 (toll free) x332 or e-mail bereavement @hospiceofstfrancis.com.

A CELEBRATION OF FREEDOM

Men of all ages are invited to attend a “Celebration of Freedom” on Monday, December 7, 2009. This special event for Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day will be held at Valiant Air Command Museum in Titusville, FL. From 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., special guest speaker, Colonel Danny McKnight, will share his thoughts and reflections on freedom.

The celebration is free for Brevard County men of all ages and will include a tour of the warbird museum. Light refreshments will be served and door prizes will be awarded. Please RSVP to 321-267-8751, as seating is limited. The Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum is located at the Titusville – Cocoa Airport, 6600 Tico Rd., Titusville, FL 32780 (US 1 just south of SR 405).

“Celebration of Freedom” is sponsored by Benton House of Titusville, Hospice of St., Francis, North Brevard Funeral Home/Oaklawn Memorial Gardens and Royal Oaks Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

CHILDRENS’ GRIEF SUPPORT PROGRAM OFFERS ANNUAL CAMP NORTH STAR

TITUSVILLE, FL – North Star, the Child Grief Support program at Hospice of St. Francis, will hold its annual Camp North Star on Saturday, November 14, 2009 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Hospice of St. Francis, 1250-B Grumman Place, Titusville, FL 32780. Any child between the ages of 6 and 12 is welcome to register to attend.

The purpose of Camp North Star is to offer support to grieving children and their families after the death of a loved one. Camp North Star offers a safe place for camper’s age 6 to 12 to explore feelings and to share experiences with others of similar ages, while providing a foundation for growth through the grieving process.

The camp is staffed by professionals and trained volunteers. Camp activities include creative learning and therapeutic crafts, as well as small group sessions to encourage campers to share memories and learn healthy coping skills. The camp experience closes with a memorial ceremony, which family members are encouraged to attend.

Attendance is free, but space is limited. Registration deadline is Monday, November 9, 2009. Please call Brooke Davis, MSW, North Star Coordinator at 321-264-1687 for more information and registration forms.

BAHS Celebrates Seniors and Veterans at Annual Health Fair

Melbourne, FL - Brevard Association of Human Services (BAHS) will host its fifth annual “Celebration of Seniors” on Wednesday, November 11, 2009 from 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at the Hilton Rialto located off Babcock Street at 200 Rialto Place, Melbourne 32935. For 2009, the health fair will have a twist! Since November 11th is Veterans’ Day, they will also be celebrating America’s veterans. Along with the health screenings, services and products information that will be featured, the VFW “Moving Memorial” special display honoring our veterans will be assembled for all to enjoy.

Admission is free to the public, and the first 150 seniors arriving at the Fair will receive invitations to a special formal educational plated lunch hosted by some of Brevard’s top senior service companies. Don’t miss the chance to win one of the many door prizes being raffled throughout the event.

Brevard Association of Human Services is a networking organization of professionals in the human services industry which meets monthly and focuses on education. It was established in an effort to increase awareness of community providers, thereby improving services available to the community. BAHS has grown to nearly 400 members. You can visit the BAHS website, a great resource offering a comprehensive listing of Brevard County health and service providers, at www.bahsbuzz.org.

GRATEFUL FAMILY HOLDS BENEFIT FOR HOSPICE

TITSUVILLE, FL-The Fowler family of Titusville have been planning an event to help raise donations for Hospice of St. Francis. Lisa Fowler’s father died from prostate cancer in June 1977. Hospice of St. Francis provided care for Lisa's (Mike's wife) father and support for the whole Fowler family during this very difficult time in their lives.

“Hospice of St. Francis is a great organization, and I want to try to educate people on the organization and the services they provide and give something back to them in at the same time,” explained Mike. “I decided a Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament would be a perfect educational/fundraising event. I know that many organizations have had great success with similar events. We hope that the public will join in the fun to help us support this good cause.”

The Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. at Rounders Bar and Grill located at 2204 S. Washington Ave., Titusville, FL. The entry fee is a $25.00 donation. Prizes will be awarded to the top four players. First place prize is a 3-day, 2-night package at the Ocean Landing Resort and Racquet Club. Second place prize is valued at $250, the third place prize is valued at $150 and the fourth place prize is valued at $75.

The public is welcome to play. For additional information, please call Mike Fowler at 321-720-8725.

HOSPICE PHYSICIAN RECEIVES THIRD BOARD CERTIFICATION

BREVARD COUNTY, FL - Mina Zeini, M.D. was recently awarded her board certification in Hospice and Palliative Medicine from the American Board of Medical Specialties. She also holds certifications in Geriatrics and Family Medicine. Dr. Zeini received her Medical Degree from the University of Florida in 2001 and completed her Family Medicine Residency for which she served as a Chief Resident in 2004. She then completed her Geriatric Fellowship training at Florida Hospital and remains a preceptor to Residents and Fellows.

Dr. Zeini is one of four full-time physicians at Hospice of St. Francis and is passionate about achieving excellence in end-of-life care. She enjoys teaching, and for the third year, holds a position at Florida State University as an Assistant Clinical professor in the Department of Geriatrics.

NORTH STAR, CHILD GRIEF SUPPORT PROGRAM, SEEKS VOLUNTEERS

North Star, the child grief support program at Hospice of St. Francis, needs caring adult volunteers to help. Volunteers play a major role in providing our services. We are looking for men and women who are energetic, compassionate and patient. Volunteers must be willing to commit to the required screening and training. The North Star children's groups are designed for children from age 3 to 18 and meet in the evenings from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Volunteers are asked to commit to eight hours per month. No previous experience is required.

Training is free of charge. Classes will be held on Tuesday, July 14, July 21, July 28, August 4, August 11 and August 18 2009 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Classes will meet once a week for six weeks at Hospice of St. Francis, 1250-B Grumman Place, Titusville, FL 32780.

To register for the North Star Volunteer Training, please contact Brooke Davis, North Star Coordinator, at 321-264-1687.

HOSPICE SEEKS “PARTNERS IN COMPASSIONATE CARE” FOR VOLUNTEER TRAINING

TITUSVILLE, FL - Hospice of St. Francis (HOSF) is seeking caring people who would like to become volunteers. HOSF volunteers provide assistance in many different ways, including making friendly visits to hospice patients, providing respite care for homebound patients, running errands and performing much needed office support and many other services. No previous experience is needed.

Training is provided at no cost to the participants. Volunteer positions are available throughout Brevard County. The new training class will begin on Wednesday, June 3, 2009 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Class will meet Wednesdays and Monday for three weeks at Hospice of St. Francis, 1250-B Grumman Place, Titusville, FL 32780. For more information or to register for the volunteer training classes, please call Vicky Hamilton, Volunteer Coordinator at 321-269-4240 or 866-269-4240 (toll free).

FIESTA BREVARD SEEKS SALSA CONTESTANTS

The organizers of the 6th Annual Fiesta Brevard fundraiser are seeking participants for the salsa competition. Each year, participants compete to win the title of BREVARD’S BEST SALSA. Individuals, groups and restaurants from our community compete with one another to determine who has the ‘best salsa’ recipe on the Space Coast. First, second and third place awards will be presented for the Judge’s Choice Award and the People’s Choice Award (determined by the people attending Fiesta Brevard). You can enter by downloading and completing the 2010 Salsa Contest Info Packet available at www.fiestabrevard.com. Limited space is available.

Fiesta Brevard will be in full swing on Friday, May 7, 2010 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the International Palms Resort (formerly Holiday Inn Oceanfront Resort) at 1300 North Atlantic Ave. (A1A) in Cocoa Beach. An event filled with fun happenings, Fiesta Brevard features booths with games and raffles from 30 local non-profit organizations, a mariachi band, fiesta hat parade and contest, salsa dancing, loads of food and much more. More than $20,000 in prizes was given away at Fiesta Brevard 2009!

Brevard's Best Salsa 2009 winners, Irma Nieto with her “Diablita-Little Devil” Salsa won the Judge’s Choice Award and People’s Choice winner was “Mary’s Downtown Salsa” made by Mary Daugherty of Brevard Symphony Orchestra. Both will be returning to defend their titles. Irma has renamed her salsa “Habanera Hottie”, and it definitely has a kick! “Mary’s Downtown Salsa” is loaded with veggies and has been a Fiesta Brevard favorite for several years. It got such rave reviews that she has begun bottling and selling it at local retailers. The first place winner of both the Judge’s Choice and People’s Choice will be invited to serve their winning salsa at the Cocoa Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Chowder Cook Off in 2011. You just never know what opportunities will come with winning this contest!

For more information about the contest and sponsorship opportunities, please call the Cocoa Beach Area Chamber of Commerce at 321-459-2200. The Cocoa Beach Area Chamber of Commerce was established in 1968 and serves Cape Canaveral, Cocoa, Cocoa Beach, Kennedy Space Center, Merritt Island, Patrick Air Force Base, Port St. John, Rockledge, Suntree and Viera.

FIESTA BREVARD FEATURES 30 LOCAL
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

BREVARD COUNTY, FL - The 6th Annual Fiesta Brevard fundraiser will feature a record number of non-profit organizations on Friday, May 7, 2010 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the International Palms Resort located at 1300 N. Atlantic Ave. in Cocoa Beach. Thirty Brevard County non-profits signed up to showcase their organizations. Festivities include live entertainment with Latin music, salsa dancing, games, drawings, raffles, salsa contest, fiesta hat parade and contest, lots of food and more! Over $20,000 in prizes was given away at Fiesta Brevard 2009! Tickets are available in advance for $10.00 or $15.00 at the door. Advanced tickets can be purchased at all 30 participating Non-Profit organizations (listed below) and the Cocoa Beach Area Chamber of Commerce at 400 Fortenberry Road, Merritt Island. Admission includes four (4) food tickets. Cash bars will be available.

"Not only is Fiesta Brevard a great public awareness and fundraising event for our non-profits, it is great entertainment for the public. There is so much to do that we have again extended the time period for the event," said Mary Ann Balthaser, one of the original founders of Fiesta Brevard and the Non-profit Task Force Committee at Cocoa Beach Area Chamber of Commerce. "The non-profits have games and raffles at their tables, and there is a lot of good Mexican food. You cannot help but have fun at Fiesta Brevard."

Fiesta Brevard will host a competition between 15 salsa makers for the Brevard's Best Salsa title. Individuals, groups and restaurants from our community will compete to determine who has the ‘best salsa’ recipe on the Space Coast. First, second and third place awards will be presented for the Judge’s Choice Award and the People’s Choice Award (determined by the people attending Fiesta Brevard). You can enter by downloading the 2010 Salsa Contest Info Packet at www.fiestabrevard.com. Limited space is available.

Participants will be showing off their "Fiesta Hats" in the Fiesta Hat Parade & Contest. During the festival, it will be announced for all entries to join the parade. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place. To join in on the "Fiesta Hat" contest:

1.) Create a “FIESTA HAT”, wear it to Fiesta Brevard, and join in the Hat Parade

2.) Enter in the contest by staying at the stage area, after the parade, for judging. No pre-registration is needed, just show up with your “Fiesta Hat.”

3.) All three winners will receive Certificates of Award & Bragging Rights as Fiesta Brevard’s “Fiesta Hat Contest Winners 2010.”

Fiesta Brevard is the showcase for 30 of Brevard's finest Non-Profit organizations, a truly unique and fun-filled experience. Participating Non–Profits for 2010 include:

Animal Safehouse of Brevard
Brevard Heritage Council
Brevard Symphony Orchestra
Bridges
Brittany’s Wish, Inc
Central Brevard Humane Society
Central Brevard Sharing Center
Christian Preparatory Learning Center
Cocoa Beach Daybreak Rotary
Community Services Council of Brevard – Senior TranServe
Early Learning Coalition of Brevard
Eckerd Youth Alternatives
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren of Brevard Co. FL, Inc.
Harmony Farms, Inc. “Horses for the Handicapped”
Heal and Hope
Honor Flight Brevard
Hospice of St. Francis
International Association of Administrative Professionals
Junior League of Central & North Brevard
Kelly Slater Sculpture Project
Merritt Island Kiwanis Club
Mt. Moriah A M E Church
New Hope for Africa
Precision Contemporary Dance, Inc.
Rolling Readers Space Coast, Inc.
St. Vincent DePaul Society
Senior Care of Brevard
Space Coast UCF Alumni Chapter
WEGO Ministries
Yellow Umbrella Child Abuse Prevention Center

Visit each participating organization to play a game, win a prize or take a chance on a raffle. Every year, major prizes are given away in our Grand Prize Drawing. This year’s grand prizes include Fiesta Treasure Basket valued at over $1,000, Visa Gift Card, Orlando Family Fun Package and Cocoa Beach Stay & Play Day Packages. Grand Prize Drawing Tickets cost $5.00 for one and $20.00 for five. The tickets can be purchased from any participating non-profit.

For more information, please call the Cocoa Beach Area Chamber of Commerce at 321-459-2200. The Cocoa Beach Area Chamber of Commerce was established in 1968 and serves Cape Canaveral, Cocoa, Cocoa Beach, Kennedy Space Center, Merritt Island, Patrick Air Force Base, Port St. John, Rockledge, Suntree and Viera.

5TH ANNUAL FIESTA BREVARD

BREVARD COUNTY, FL - The 5th Annual Fiesta Brevard fundraiser will be in full swing on Friday, May 8, 2009 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Cocoa Beach Oceanfront Resort on A1A in Cocoa Beach. Festivities include live entertainment with Latin music, salsa dancing, games, drawings, raffles, salsa contest, fiesta hat parade and contest, lots of food and more! Over $10,000 in prizes were given away at Fiesta Brevard 2008! Tickets are available in advance for $10.00 or $15.00 at the door. Advanced tickets can be purchased at all participating Non-Profit organizations (listed below) and the Cocoa Beach Area Chamber of Commerce (400 Fortenberry Road, Merritt Island). Admission includes four (4) food tickets and cash bars will be available.

Fiesta Brevard will host a competition for the Brevard's Best Salsa title. Individuals, groups and restaurants from our community compete with one another to determine who has the ‘best salsa’ recipe on the Space Coast. First, second and third place awards will be presented for the Judge’s Choice Award and the People’s Choice Award (determined by the people attending Fiesta Brevard). You can enter by downloading the 2009 Salsa Contest Info Packet at www.cocoabeachchamber.com. Limited space is available.

Participants will be showing off their "Fiesta Hats" during the Fiesta Hat Parade & Contest. During the festival, it will be announced for all entries to join the parade. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place.
To join in on the "Fiesta Hat" contest
1.) Create a “FIESTA HAT”, wear it to Fiesta Brevard, and join in the Hat Parade
2.) Enter in the contest by staying at the stage area, after the parade, for judging. No pre-registration is needed, just show up with your “Fiesta Hat.”
3.) All three winners will receive Certificates of Award & Bragging Rights as Fiesta Brevard’s “Fiesta Hat Contest Winners 2009.”

Fiesta Brevard is the showcase for 26 of Brevard's finest Non-Profit organizations, a truly unique and fun filled experience. Be sure to stop and visit each participating organization to play a game, win a prize or take a chance on a raffle. Whatever you do, you will experience Fiesta Fun!
Fiesta Brevard 2009 Non-Profit participants are:

Every year, major prizes are given away in our Grand Prize Drawing. This year’s grand prizes include Fiesta Treasure Basket valued at over $1,000, Visa Gift Card, Orlando Family Fun Package and Cocoa Beach Stay & Play Day Packages. Grand Prize Drawing Tickets cost $5.00 for one and $20.00 for five. The tickets can be purchased from any one of the participating non-profits. One of our Grand Prize Drawing items this year is a Fiesta Treasure Basket loaded with gift certificates valued at over $1,000.
It is truly a fun event!

For more information, please call the Cocoa Beach Area Chamber of Commerce at 321-459-2200. The Cocoa Beach Area Chamber of Commerce was established in 1968 and serves Cape Canaveral, Cocoa, Cocoa Beach, Kennedy Space Center, Merritt Island, Patrick Air Force Base, Port St. John, Rockledge, Suntree and Viera

HOSPICE VOLUNTEERS RECEIVE RAINBOW AWARD

Dee and Norm Edkins (center) show off their Rainbow Award. They are shown here with Marie Bowles (left) and Vicky Hamilton, HOSF Volunteer Coordinator (right).

BREVARD COUNTY – Hospice of St. Francis (HOSF) volunteers, Dee and Norm Edkins, were presented with the Rainbow Award in recognition for their hard work and dedication. Dee and Norm each work as patient/family care volunteers providing companionship to the patients and respite to the family members. Norm also donates his woodworking skills to HOSF’s child grief program, North Star, assisting with projects for the children.

Vicky Hamilton, Volunteer Coordinator for Hospice of St. Francis, said, “Norm and Dee have volunteered with Hospice of St. Francis for over five years and each has served several hundreds of hours. But the numbers don’t measure the smiles and comfort that they have given to our patients and their families. We are honored to have Norm and Dee Edkins on our hospice team, and we thank them for their service to our community.”

The Rainbow Award is sponsored by Brevard Association of Human Services (BAHS). It is awarded to volunteers throughout the community who provide exceptional service. BAHS represents human service professionals in Brevard County. The organization focuses on education and networking to keep the membership abreast of the many services and changes in the industry.

HOSPICE OF ST. FRANCIS CNA RECEIVES 2008 EXCELLENCE AWARD

Susan Aniskewicz (left) holding her FHPC 2008 Excellence Award. With her is HOSF's CNA/HHA Supervisor, Pat Rouse.

BREVARD COUNTY, FL - Susan Aniskewicz, Certified Nursing Assistant/Home Health Aide (CNA/HHA) at Hospice of St. Francis (HOSF), was presented the 2008 CNA/HHA Excellence Award at the 2008 Florida Hospice and Palliative Care conference held in Orlando. Ms. Aniskewicz was selected from nominations received from hospices throughout the state of Florida.

Ms. Aniskewicz began working for Hospice of St. Francis in 2001. She takes pride in the care she provides and serves as a strong advocate for the patients she cares for. In 2007, Susan completed the requirements to earn the designation of Certified Hospice and Palliative Nursing Assistant. Her goal was to have the knowledge and skills to provide the best patient care possible.

“Hospice work can be very rewarding knowing our patients are getting the best care, are comfortable and pain free. Hospice workers also play a role with the families. We are a great support system, as well as helping keep them informed of their loved one’s status. We, at Hospice of St. Francis, accomplish all of this with great team work,” explained Ms. Aniskewicz.

HOSPICE OF ST. FRANCIS RECEIVES GERIATRIC CERTIFICATION

Brevard County, FL – Keilah Gonzalez-Bonilla, M.D., a full-time physician on the medical team at Hospice of St. Francis, has received her Board Certification in Geriatrics. The geriatric board is a certificate of added qualification in the specialty of geriatrics. The added certificate is designed to recognize excellence among those Diplomates who provide care for the elderly.

Dr. Gonzalez-Bonilla graduated with her medical degree from the Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara in Jalisco, Mexico, in June 2000. She completed a Family Medicine Residency at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, TN. Dr. Gonzalez also has EMR training in Logician-Centricity and Epic and holds license/certification in DEA, Advance Trauma Life Support, Basic Life Support and Advance Cardiac Life Support. She is an alumni of the Fifth Pathway Program at New York Medical College and is a Diplomat of the American Board of Family Medicine. Dr. Gonzalez-Bonilla is fully bilingual in English and Spanish.

“Dr. Gonzalez-Bonilla is a great asset to our hospice medical team and has helped our organization provide an even higher level of quality care to our patients and their loved ones,” said Bruce Wolters, Executive Director of Hospice of St. Francis.

HOSPICE OF ST. FRANCIS ADDS SUPPORT GROUP LOCATION

Titusville, FL – Hospice of St. Francis’ Bereavement Support Program recently added a new location. The new location is at Plantation House located at 137 Plantation Drive, Titusville, FL 32780 in the Great Outdoors. Luncheon meetings are held on the fourth Thursday of the month at 11:30 a.m. This location is in addition to regularly scheduled monthly support group meetings. The monthly support group calendar is as follows:

• First Wednesday at 9 a.m. - Men’s Breakfast, Village Inn, 2925 S. Washington Ave., Titusville.
  
• First Thursday at 11:30 a.m. – Ladies’ Luncheon, Victorios, 1701 S. Washington Ave., Titusville.
  
• Fourth Thursday at 11:30 a.m. – New Beginnings Luncheon, Plantation House, 137 Plantation Dr., Tituvsille.
  
• Bi-weekly on Thursday from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. – Support Groups, Hospice of St. Francis, 1250-B Grumman Place, Titusville.

NORTH STAR CHILDREN’S GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP PROGRAM HOLDS CAMP

TITUSVILLE, FL. North Star, a children’s grief support group program, will be holding their annual Camp North Star on Saturday, October 4, 2008 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Camp North Star is provided free of charge by Hospice of St. Francis. The campsite is located at 1250-B Grumman Place, Titusville, FL 32780.

Camp North Star is designed for children from 5 to 12 years of age as a day of celebration, reflection and memorializing. The camp provides children, who have experienced the death of a loved one, the opportunity to share their feelings, learn skills to address grief, learn from the experiences of their peers and receive support and guidance from professional staff and volunteers of North Star and Hospice of St. Francis.

The children will enjoy the fellowship of new friends as they participate in a day filled with fun. Activities will include: star gaze, pony rides, leather and wood crafts, mini 4WD car racing, nature walks, Native American circle, therapy dogs, “virtual reality” rafting, puppet shows, music, pizza and ice cream. The day will conclude with a bell ringing memorial service to honor loved ones who have died.

To receive an application, please call Rachel Rothleutner, LMHC, North Star Coordinator, at 321-264-1687.

CHILD GRIEF PROGRAM HOLDS COMMUNITY AWARENESS EVENT

North Star, the child grief support program at Hospice of St. Francis, will be holding their annual community awareness event on Saturday, May 10, 2008 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Hospice of St. Francis, 1250-B Grumman Place, Titusville, FL 32780. The event is designed for children from age 5 to 11 and will feature a Film Festival with popcorn, pizza, popsicles and prizes. A good time will be had by all!

Registration is limited. The event is free to any resident of Brevard County. To register, please contact Rachel Rothleutner, LMHC at 321-264-1687. Parents must provide emergency contact information.

Hospice of St. Francis (HOSF) was the first hospice established in Brevard County and celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2007. HOSF is a local, non-profit, non-sectarian organization that serves the needs of terminally ill patients and their loved ones. In addition to caring for the terminally ill and providing the North Star program for children, HOSF offers adult grief support groups, memorial services, individual pastoral counseling, the Caregiving Education and Resource program and Partners in Compassionate Care volunteer program. Hospice of St. Francis services are provided throughout Brevard County—north to south—free of charge to any Brevard County resident. For more information on these programs and services, please call 321-269-4240/toll free 866-269-4240 or visit our website at www.hospiceofstfrancis.com.

24 BREVARD NON-PROFITS JOIN IN ON MAJOR FUNDRAISER "4TH ANNUAL FIESTA BREVARD"

The 4th Annual Fiesta Brevard fundraiser will be in full swing on Friday, May 9, 2008 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Cocoa Beach Oceanfront Resort on A1A in Cocoa Beach. Festivites include live entertainment with Latin music, salsa dancing, games, drawings, raffles, salsa contest, fiesta hat parade and contest, lots of food and more! Over $10,000 in prizes and awards were given away at Fiesta Brevard 2007!

Tickets are available in advance for $10.00 or $15.00 at the door. Advanced tickets can be purchased from all participating Non-Profit organizations (listed below) and the Cocoa Beach Area Chamber of Commerce (400 Fortenberry Road, Merritt Island). Admission includes four (4) food tickets and cash bars will be available.

Fiesta Brevard will host a competition for the Brevard's Best Salsa title. Individuals, groups and restaurants from our community will compete with one another to determine who has the ‘best salsa’ recipe on the Space Coast. First, second and third place awards will be presented for the Judge’s Choice Award and the People’s Choice Award (determined by the people attending Fiesta Brevard). You can enter by downloading the 2008 Salsa Contest Info Packet at www.cocoabeachchamber.com/docs/2008_Salsa_Contest_Info_Packet_Final.pdf. Limited space is available.

Participants will be showing off their "Fiesta Hats" during the Fiesta Hat Parade & Contest. During the festival, it will be announced for all entries to join the parade. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place.

To join in on the "Fiesta Hat" contest:
1.) Create a “FIESTA HAT”, wear it to Fiesta Brevard, and join in the Hat Parade
2.) Enter in the contest by staying at the stage area, after the parade, for judging. No pre-registration needed, just show up with your “Fiesta Hat.”
3.) All three winners will receive Certificates of Award & Bragging Rights as Fiesta Brevard’s “Fiesta Hat Contest Winners 2008.”

Fiesta Brevard is the showcase for 24 of Brevard's finest Non-Profit organizations, a truly unique and fun filled experience. Be sure to stop and visit each participating organization to play a game, win a prize or take a chance on a raffle. Fiesta Brevard 2008 Non-Profit participants are:

• Brevard Achievement Center
• Brevard Symphony Orchestra
• Bridges
• Business & Professional Women of Brevard
• Cedar Creek Life Center
• Center for the Visually Impaired,
• Central Brevard Humane Society
• Central Brevard Sharing Center
• Children's Home Society of Florida
• Community Based Care of Brevard
• Cocoa Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
• Cocoa Beach Daybreak Rotary
• Crosswinds Youth Services
• Early Learning Coalition of Brevard County, Inc.
• Eckerd Youth Alternatives
• Florida Outreach Childbirth Education Program
• Harmony Farms, Inc. "Horses for the Handicapped"
• Hospice of St. Francis
• International Association of Administrative Professionals
• Keep Brevard Beautiful
• Merritt Island Kiwanis Club
• National Kidney Foundation of Florida
• Precision Contemporary Dance, Inc.
• Rolling Readers Space Coast, Inc.

Special thanks to our sponsors of this event: The Boeing Company, Lockheed Martin, Las Vegas Casino Lines, Holiday Inn Cocoa Beach Oceanfront Resort, PIP Printing and Document Services - Merritt Island, Ask My Computer Guy, Community Educators Credit Union, Mary Ann Balthaser-Melaleuca IME, Steven Craig Causey Video Productions, Holiday Inn International Drive Resort – Orlando, Auman Photo Studio, Space Coast Party Productions, Ropert Communications and Precision Contemporary Dance.

Every year, four (4) major prizes are given away in our Chance Prize Drawing. Chance tickets cost $5.00 for one and $20.00 for five. The tickets can be purchased from any of the participating Non-Profits. Our Chance Prize Drawing items this year, include:

• Dell Vostro 1000 Laptop.
• A Carnival Cruise for two (2) people.
• Orlando Fun Package, includes lodging at Holiday Inn International Drive Resort Orlando and attraction tickets.
• Fiesta Treasure Basket (valued over $1,000 in gift certificates from local restaurants and merchants).

Whatever you do, you will enjoy Fiesta Fun! For more information, please call the Cocoa Beach Area Chamber of Commerce at 321-459-2200.

October 26, 2007

HOSPICE OF ST. FRANCIS CELEBRATES
NATIONAL HOSPICE MONTH

Brevard County, FL - November is National Hospice/Palliative Care Month, a time when professionals and volunteers work to raise awareness of this invaluable system of care. Hospice and palliative care organizations provide care for patients and support for their families during one of life's most challenging times.

"It is surprising how many people in our community do not know about the services that hospice provides. Another surprising fact is that many do not know that this service is covered by Medicare and Medicaid. At Hospice of St. Francis, we feel that it is important to educate members of our community how hospice can help the terminally-ill patient and their family is important," said Terry Stone, Community Outreach.

Hospice is more than traditional healthcare. The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization reported that over 1.5 million patients were served by the nation's hospice providers last year. Hospices helped these people live with dignity, comfort, and compassion. Hospice and palliative care programs provide pain management, symptom control, psychosocial support, and spiritual care to patients and their families. They also serve as important sources of information about care options.

Hospice of St. Francis is committed to informing the community and local health care professionals about the benefits of hospice and palliative care.

Bruce Wolters, Executive Director of Hospice of St. Francis, commented, "National Hospice and Palliative Care Month is a wonderful opportunity for Hospice of St. Francis to step up efforts in raising awareness about important issues for people coping with a life-limiting illness."

Hospice of St. Francis (HOSF) was the first hospice established in Brevard County and is celebrating its 30th anniversary in November 2007. HOSF is a local, non-sectarian, 501 (c) (3) organization that serves the needs of terminally ill patients and their loved ones. The corporation was originally formed in 1977 by volunteers from the medical community. In 1990, the organization transitioned to a paid professional staff supported by a strong base of volunteers. In addition to caring for the terminally ill and providing the Caregiver Education and Resource Program, HOSF offers adult support groups, memorial services, individual pastoral counseling, the Congregation Nurse Program and child grief support through the North Star Program. Hospice of St. Francis services are provided throughout Brevard County–north to south. For more information on these programs, please call 321-269-4240, toll free 866-269-4240 or visit our website at www.hospiceofstfrancis.com.

September 17, 2007

HOSPICE OF ST. FRANCIS WELCOMES DR. GONZALEZ-BONILLA TO MEDICAL TEAM

Brevard County, FL – Hospice of St. Francis has added Keilah Gonzalez-Bonilla, M.D. to the medical team. Dr. Gonzalez-Bonilla recently completed a Fellowship in Geriatrics, Family Medicine Residency at Florida Hospital in Orlando.

After completing her medical degree in June 2000 at the Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara in Jalisco, Mexico, Dr. Gonzalez-Bonilla a Family Medicine Residency at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, TN. She has completed EMR training in Logician-Centricity and Epic and holds license/certification in DEA, Advance Trauma Life Support, Basic Life Support and Advance Cardiac Life Support. Dr. Gonzalez-Bonilla is an alumni of the Fifth Pathway Program at New York Medical College and is a Diplomat of the American Board of Family Medicine. She is fully bilingual in English and Spanish.

“We are happy to have Dr. Gonzalez-Bonilla on board. The addition brings our medical team to four full-time physicians, which helps our organization in providing an even higher level of quality service to our patients,” said Bruce Wolters, Executive Director of Hospice of St. Francis.

June 27, 2007

HOSPICE VOLUNTEER RECOGNIZED FOR 25 YEARS OF SERVICE

Brevard County, FL – Millie DeVee recently celebrated her 25th anniversary of volunteer service at Hospice of St. Francis. Over the years, Millie has worked in many capacities, wherever her help was needed. She has provided respite care, made friendly visits, provided bereavement support and helped with fundraisers.

Currently, Millie serves primarily as a vigil care volunteer. This means that she goes out to the hospital or nursing homes on short notice to sit with patients in their final days or even final hours. A typical vigil care visit might include sitting quietly at the bedside, holding a hand, calming a patient’s fears or consoling family members.

In 2006, more than 110 volunteers provided over 5,300 hours of service assisting Hospice of St. Francis in carrying out their mission to provide care to patients and support to families.

Photo of Millie DeVee (right) accepting her award from Hospice of St. Francis' Volunteer Coordinator, Vicky Hamilton.

September 13, 2007

NORTH STAR CHILDREN’S GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP PROGRAM HOLDS CAMP

Titusville, FL – North Star, a children’s grief support group program, will be holding Camp North Star on Saturday, October 13, 2007 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Camp North Star is provided free of charge by Hospice of St Francis. The campsite is located at 1250-B Grumman Place in Titusville, FL 32780.

Camp North Star is designed for children from 5 to 12 years of age as a day of celebration, reflection and memorializing. The camp provides children, who have experienced the death of a loved one, the opportunity to share their feelings, learn skills to address grief, learn from the experiences of their peers and receive support and guidance from professional staff and volunteers of North Star and Hospice of St. Francis.

The children will enjoy the fellowship of new friends as they participate in a day filled with fun. Activities will include: star gaze, pony rides, leather crafts, mini 4wd car racing, nature walks, Native American circle, therapy dogs, “virtual reality” rafting, puppet shows, music, pizza and ice cream.  The day will conclude with a bell ringing memorial service to honor loved ones who have died.

To receive an application, please call Rachel Rothleutner, LMHC, North Star Program Coordinator, at 321-264-1687.

February 26, 2007

CHILDREN’S SUPPORT GROUP HOLDS EASTER EGG HUNT

Titusville, FL – North Star, a children’s grief support group program, will be holding an Easter Egg Hunt during Spring Break on Thursday, March 29, 2007 at 1 pm. North Star Easter Egg Hunt is provided free by Hospice of St Francis. The egg hunt will be held at 1250 Grumman Place, Titusville, FL 32780, located at SR405 and Grissom Parkway across from the Titusville Police Department.

All children through 12 years of age are invited. The children will enjoy the fellowship of new friends as they participate in an afternoon filled with fun activities. These activities will include, an Easter Egg Hunt, games, crafts, movie and snacks. Spring is the season to celebrate life.

For more information, please call Rachel Rothleutner, LHMC, North Star Program Coordinator, at 321-264-1687.

February 14, 2007

HOSPICE OF ST. FRANCIS PHYSICIAN RECEIVES GERIATRIC CERTIFICATION

Brevard County, FL – Mina Zeini, M.D., a member of the medical team at Hospice of St. Francis, has received her Board Certification in Geriatrics. The geriatric board is a certificate of added qualification in the specialty of geriatrics. The added certificate is designed to recognize excellence among those Diplomates who provide care for the elderly.

Dr. Zeini said, “I spent a year after my Family Medicine Residency devoted to studying how to take care of the elderly population and those over the age of 65. This is a part of our population that is booming and is underserved and will continue to be. My interest in palliative care and geriatric palliative care was initiated during my fellowship and subspecialty training.”

Dr. Zeini graduated from the University of Florida’s medical school in 2001. She completed her Family Medicine Residency at Florida Hospital in Orlando, where she was honored to hold the position of Chief Resident of the program from 2003 to 2004, and went on to complete a Geriatric Fellowship from 2004 to 2006.

“Dr. Zeini has been a great addition to our medical team. With three full-time physicians and an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner, we are able to provide complete medical care without relying on physician consultants,” said Bruce Wolters, Executive Director of Hospice of St. Francis.

Hospice of St. Francis (HOSF) was the first hospice established in Brevard County and is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2007. HOSF is a local, non-sectarian, 501 (c)(3) organization that serves the needs of terminally ill patients and their loved ones. The corporation was originally formed in 1977 by volunteers from the medical community. In 1990, the organization transitioned to a paid professional staff supported by a strong base of volunteers. In addition to caring for the terminally ill and providing the Caregiving at Life’s End program, HOSF offers adult support groups, memorial services, individual pastoral counseling, the Congregation Nurse Program and child grief support through the North Star program. Hospice of St. Francis services are provided throughout Brevard County—north to south. For more information on these programs, please call 321-269-4240, toll free 866-269-4240 or visit our website at www.hospiceofstfrancis.com.

December 6, 2006

HOSPICE OF ST. FRANCIS EMPLOYEE RECEIVES UNSUNG HERO AWARD

Brevard County, FL - Carmelita Wilcox, Home Health Aide/Certified Nursing Assistant (HHA/CNA) for Hospice of St. Francis, was first recipient of the 2006 Unsung Hero Award from the Florida Hospices and Palliative Care organization. The Unsung Hero Award was created to recognize exceptional HHA/CNAs. Ms. Wilcox was presented with the award at the Annual Awards of Excellence banquet held in Orlando on Thursday, November 30th. She was selected from nominations received from hospices throughout the state of Florida.

Ms. Wilcox has served as a HHA/CNA at Hospice of St. Francis since 2002. She more than met the criteria set for eligibility to receive this award care. Ms. Wilcox has mastered the skills necessary to care for terminally ill patients, consistently provides high quality personal care and provides strong emotional support fro the patients and their families.

Pat Rouse, HHA/CNA supervisor for Hospice of St. Francis, said, "Carmelita is a very quiet, dignified young lady with a friendly smile and upbeat personality that immediately puts the patients and their families at ease. The combination of Carmelita's skills, education and personality allow her to provide compassionate care for our patients while maintaining the necessary professional boundaries. The result is excellent care for every patient she cares for."

"Carmelita is a strong advocate for patients. Hospice of St. Francis core values that are basic to our mission and vision statement are tightly woven into Carmelita's work ethics," stated Denny Meneghelli, Chief Operating Officer at Hospice of St. Francis. "We are proud of her for all she has achieved."

Hospice of St. Francis (HOSF) was the first hospice established in Brevard County. HOSF is a local, non-sectarian, 501 (c)(3) organization that serves the needs of terminally ill patients and their loved ones. In addition to caring for the terminally ill, HOSF offers a caregiving education and resource program, adult support groups, memorial services, individual pastoral counseling, the Congregation Nurse Program and child grief support through the North Star program. Hospice of St. Francis serves patients and families throughout Brevard County-north to south. For more information on services and programs, please call 321-269-4240, toll free 866-269-4240 or visit our website at www.hospiceofstfrancis.com.

HOSPICE OF ST. FRANCIS CELEBRATES THE “FACES OF CARING”
Brevard County, FL - November is National Hospice/Palliative Care Month, a time when professionals and volunteers work to raise awareness of this invaluable system of care. Hospice and palliative care puts a “face” on quality end-of-life care--the faces of nurses, doctors, social workers, spiritual caregivers, home health aides and volunteers who provide services and support to families during one of life’s most challenging times.  Hospice and palliative care services offer pain and symptom control, dignity, and spiritual and emotional care for both dying persons and their loved ones when a cure is not possible.

Throughout the month of November, organizations across the nation are hosting activities that focus on celebrating those who provide quality care at the end of life. Hospice of St. Francis is committed to bringing important information to Brevard County Florida. “Hospice of St. Francis has a team of professionals that perform public presentations on many subjects concerning end-of-life care, including advance directives, caregiver training, grief support for children and adults and volunteer training. Learning how hospice can help patients and their families is important,” said Terry Stone, Community Outreach. 

The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization reported that over 1.2 million patients were served by the nation’s 4,000 hospice providers last year. Hospices helped these people live with dignity, comfort, and compassion. Hospice and palliative care programs provide pain management, symptom control, psychosocial support, and spiritual care to patients and their families. They also serve as important sources of information about care options.

Hospice of St. Francis is committed to informing the community and local health care professionals about the benefits of hospice and palliative care, and to honoring those who do this important work each day. 

“When families think of the care their loved one received in hospice, they think of the concern on the face of a nurse as she made their loved one more comfortable, or the smile on the face of the volunteer listening to an old family story or joke,” commented Bruce Wolters, Executive Director of Hospice of St. Francis. “National Hospice and Palliative Care Month provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate these “faces” of caring in our community.”

HOSPICE/PALLIATIVE CARE PHYSICIAN JOINS MEDICAL TEAM AT HOSPICE OF ST. FRANCIS

Brevard County, FL – Mina Zeini, M.D. has joined Hospice of St. Francis’ medical team. Dr. Zeini is a graduate of the University of Florida’s medical school. She completed her Family Practice Residency at Florida Hospital in Orlando, where she was honored to hold the position of Chief Resident of the program from 2004 to 2005, and went on to complete a Geriatric Fellowship from 2004 to 2006. Dr. Zeini continues her studies with plans to take the geriatric board exams this coming fall. She also holds several certifications in several medical specialty practices.

Hospice of St. Francis (HOSF) was the first hospice established in Brevard County. HOSF is a local, non-sectarian, 501 (c)(3) organization that serves the needs of terminally ill patients and their loved ones. The corporation was originally formed in 1977 by volunteers from the medical community. In 1990, the organization transitioned to a paid professional staff supported by a strong base of volunteers. In addition to caring for the terminally ill and providing the Caregiving Education and Resource Program, HOSF offers adult support groups, memorial services, individual pastoral counseling, the Congregation Nurse Program and child grief support through the North Star Program. Hospice of St. Francis services are provided throughout Brevard County—north to south. For more information on these programs, please call 321-269-4240, toll free 866-269-4240 or visit our website at www.hospiceofstfrancis.com.

aregiving@hospiceofstfrancis.com.

PARRISH MEDICAL CENTER AND HOSPICE OF ST. FRANCIS PARTNER TO PROVIDE CONGREGATION/PARISH NURSE WORKSHOP

Hospice of St. Francis in partnership with Parrish Medical Center’s Education Department will be conducting the 10th Congregation/Parish Nurse Workshop on Wednesday, September 20, 2006 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The workshop will be held at the offices of Hospice of St. Francis located at 1250-B Grumman Place, Titusville, FL.

The Congregation Nurse/Parish Nurse Workshop is designed to prepare the selected Registered Nurse to serve effectively within her/his own faith community as a Congregation/Parish Nurse. This program is an intense, interactive day with information presented in all aspects of this new specialty. The program includes lecture, discussion, role-playing, video and written tools and materials for use within the congregation setting will be provided.

This workshop targets the Registered Nurses who are interested in serving as a Congregation/ Parish Nurse within their faith community or organization. Each attendee will be awarded 6.0 contact hours by the Florida State Board of Nursing. For more information or to register, please contact Barbara Borman, RN at 321-269-4578 or e-mail her at caregiving@hospiceofstfrancis.com.

Hospice of St. Francis (HOSF) was the first hospice established in Brevard County. HOSF is a local, non-sectarian, 501 (c)(3) organization that serves the needs of terminally ill patients and their loved ones. The corporation was originally formed in 1977 by volunteers from the medical community. In 1990, the organization transitioned to a paid professional staff supported by a strong base of volunteers.  In addition to caring for the terminally ill and providing the Caregiving Education and Resource Program, HOSF offers adult support groups, memorial services, individual pastoral counseling, the Congregation Nurse Program and child grief support through the North Star Program. Hospice of St. Francis services are provided throughout Brevard County—north to south. For more information on these programs, please call 321-269-4240 or toll free 866-269-4240.

HOSPICE OF ST. FRANCIS OFFERS FREE CEU ON END OF LIFE CARE

Brevard County, FL – Hospice of St. Francis is offering a free CEU to all Registered Nurses on End of Life Care. Dr. Elizabeth Galfo, Medical Director for Hospice of St. Francis, will be conducting the seminar. Her presentation will cover Medical Futility, an increasingly important role in our society that involves maintaining a person’s dignity, quality of life and making every second of their life count.

The seminar will be held as part of an Open House at Hospice of St. Francis located at 1250-B Grumman Place, Titusville, FL 32780. The CEU will be presented twice on Wednesday, August 23, 2006. The first presentation will be held during the morning session of the Open House from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m., and the second presentation will be held during the evening session from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about hospice care and what makes Hospice of St. Francis unique. Attendees that are interested may obtain job applications and/or participate in on-site interviews during the Open House. Refreshments will be served at both sessions. To register, please call 321-269-4240 or toll free 866-269-4240.

Hospice of St. Francis (HOSF) is an independent, local, non-sectarian, 501 (c)(3) organization that serves the needs of terminally ill patients and their loved ones. The corporation was originally formed in 1977 by volunteers from the medical community. In 1990, the organization transitioned to a paid professional staff supported by a strong base of volunteers. In addition to caring for the terminally ill and providing the Caregiving Education and Resource Program, HOSF offers adult support groups, memorial services, individual pastoral counseling, the Congregation Nurse Program and child grief support through the North Star Program. Hospice of St. Francis services are provided throughout Brevard County—north to south. For more information on these programs, please call 321-269-4240, toll free at 866-269-4240 or check our website at www.hospiceofstfrancis.com.

HOSPICE ADDS SALES AND MARKETING PROFESSIONAL TO TEAM

January 27, 2006

NORTH STAR PROGRAM HOLDS ICE CREAM SOCIAL

North Star, Hospice of St. Francis’ grief support program for children, teens and their families, will be holding an ice cream social that is open to the public. This event is being held specifically for grandparents not living close to their grandchildren and grandchildren not living close to their grandparents.

"The emotional support generated from an event of this nature can be very rewarding for both the children and the adults,” said Rachel Rothleutner, LMHC, North Star Program coordinator. “It is beneficial to all who get involved."

The ice cream social will be held on Sunday, February 26, 2006 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the Hospice of St. Francis Social Hall located at 1250-B Grumman Place, Titusville. Anyone in the community wanting to participate can do so by calling Rachel Rothleutner at (321) 264-1687. RSVPs are requested, but are not required.

The North Star Program is a specialized community resource for children, teens and their families dealing with grief and loss. The program encourages verbal expressions of the grief experience and provides a setting for creative play activities with peer groups. North Star accepts children between the ages of 3 and 17. The program is administered by a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with the assistance of a number of specially trained volunteers. There is no charge for participation in the North Star Program. For more information on grief support programs available to the public at Hospice of St. Francis, please call (321) 269-4240 or toll free (866) 269-4240.

September 13, 2005

HOSPICE OF ST. FRANCIS EMPLOYEE HONORED FOR 15 YEARS OF SERVICE

Hospice of St. Francis (HOSF) recognized Pat Rouse for her 15 years of service by presenting her with an employee service award. On July 1, 2005, Pat celebrated her 15th anniversary as an employee of Hospice of St. Francis. She was hired as the first Home Health Aid/Certified Nursing Assistant when HOSF transitioned to an organization with paid employees.

Currently, Pat holds the position of Senior Home Health Aid/Certified Nursing Assistant (HHA/CNA). Her position requires that she spend most if her time in the office coordinating the activities of nine HHA/CNAs. In an average day, she stays very busy scheduling patient care, ordering medical supplies and durable medical equipment, maintaining on call books and reviewing and filing progress notes in patient’s charts. She is also there to fill in for HHA/CNAs in the field when they need to take time away from caring for hospice patients and assisting their families.

Grace Logue, Director of Nursing had this to say of Pat, “Pat Rouse is the gold standard of what any organization could hope for in their employees. She is a team player and has never said she couldn’t do something. I can only hope that someday I can achieve the standard she has set within HOSF.”

Pat Rouse started with Hospice of St. Francis when the offices were housed in a one room office in downtown Titusville. She feels her position has allowed her to grow as an individual, and she feels great satisfaction in having been a part of the growth of HOSF over the years.

Pat said, “I love what I do and believe it is one of the best jobs I have ever had. I feel that the secret to my job satisfaction has been that I get so much back from the patients-much more than I could ever give.”

Hospice of St. Francis was the first hospice established in Brevard County. HOSF is a local, non-sectarian, 501 (c)(3) organization that serves the needs of terminally ill patients and their loved ones. The corporation was originally formed in 1977 by volunteers from the medical community. In 1990, the organization transitioned to a paid professional staff supported by a strong base of volunteers. In addition to caring for the terminally ill and providing the Caregiving Education and Resource Program, HOSF offers adult support groups, memorial services, individual pastoral counseling, the Congregation Nurse Program and child grief support through the North Star Program. Hospice of St. Francis services are provided throughout Brevard County-north to south. For more information on these programs, please call 321-269-4240, toll free at 866-269-4240 or visit our website at www.hospiceofstfrancis.com.

August 22, 2005

HOSPICE "PARTNERS IN COMPASSIONATE CARE" NEEDED

For additional information, please contact
Vicky Hamilton, Director of Volunteers at 321-269-4240

Hospice of St. Francis (HOSF) is seeking caring people who would like to become volunteers. HOSF volunteers provide assistance in many different ways, including making friendly visits to hospice patients, providing respite care for homebound patients, running errands and performing much needed office support and many other services. No previous experience is needed. 

Training is provided at no cost to the participants. Volunteer positions are available throughout Brevard County. The new training class will begin on Friday, September 23, 2005 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Classes will meet every Friday and Monday for three weeks at Central Brevard Library located at 308 Forrest Ave. in Cocoa. For more information or to register for the training classes, please call Vicky Hamilton, Director of Volunteers at 321-269-4240 or 866-269-4240 (toll free).

Hospice of St. Francis is a local, non-sectarian, independent organization that is registered with the State of Florida as a non-profit, charitable organization. HOSF is recognized by the IRS as a 501 (c)(3) corporation. Established in 1977, Hospice of St. Francis was Brevard County's first hospice. HOSF continues to provide care for terminally ill patients and support their loved ones. For more information on HOSF programs, please call 321-269-4240 or 866-269-4240 (toll free) or go to our website www.hospiceofstfrancis.com..

April 5, 2005

HOSPICE OF ST. FRANCIS NAMES MENEGHELLI AS CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

(Brevard County) - Hospice of St. Francis, Brevard’s first hospice, recently announced the selection of Denise “Denny” Meneghelli as Chief Operating Officer.  Ms. Meneghelli is responsible for coordinating all general operational activities of the organization, overseeing the Nursing, Social Work and Volunteer Departments, as well as the Chaplain and Community Outreach Programs.

Executive Director Bruce Wolters said, “Denny brings unique skills, talents and a passionate commitment to quality end of life care for all persons.  We look forward to Denny’s help as we continue advancing hospice care for terminally ill persons and implementing palliative care for all Brevard county.”

Ms. Meneghelli joined Hospice of St. Francis in August 2003 and has served as Community Outreach Coordinator since that time.  Prior to becoming a part of the HOSF team, Denny was a Special Events Manager for the American Cancer Society.

Ms. Meneghelli received a Bachelor of Arts in Urban Studies and a Master of Public Administration from Cleveland State University.  Denny is President-Elect of the Titusville Sunrise Rotary Club and a member of the Space Coast Advertising Federation, the Florida Public Relations Association, the Parrish Medical Center Women’s Advisory Board and the Brevard County Commission on Aging.

Hospice of St. Francis is an independent, not-for-profit organization licensed by the State of Florida to provide hospice services in Brevard County.   Hospice of St. Francis has been providing care for patients and support for loved ones since 1977.  For further information about Hospice of St. Francis, please call us at 321.269.4240 (local) or 866.269.4240 (toll free) or visit our website, www.hospiceofstfrancis.com.

April 4, 2005

Fiesta Brevard

April 8, 2005

Hospice of St. Francis Partners with A.G. Edwards & Sons, Inc.

Hospice of St. Francis and A. G. Edwards & Sons, Inc. have formed a unique partnership to offer a comprehensive seminar designed to help individuals plan a secure future for themselves and their families.  The Life Planning Luncheon will be held at Hospice of St. Francis (1250-B Grumman Place, Titusville) from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 26, 2005.  The free seminar will include discussions about Estate Planning, Understanding Trusts, What is hospice? Advance Directives and more.

Please plan to join us for this free, informative seminar; lunch will be provided.  Reservations are necessary due to limited seating; please call Judy at Hospice of St. Francis to confirm your participation (269.4240).  For additional information about Hospice of St. Francis, please visit our website at  www.hospiceofstfrancis.com.

March 16, 2005

Hospice of St. Francis Wins Local ADDY Awards

Representatives from Hospice of St. Francis joined more than 100 advertising professionals at the Doubletree Hotel on Saturday February 26th for the Space Coast Advertising Federation’s (SCAF) 21st Annual American Advertising Federation (AAF) ADDY Awards banquet and ceremony.

According to the AAF, “The ADDY’s are the advertising industry’s largest and most representative competition, recognizing and rewarding creative excellence in the art of advertising. Every year approximately 60,000 entries are submitted in local ADDY competitions. 

Conducted annually by the AAF, the local ADDY Awards is the first of a three-tiered national competition.  Concurrently, all across the country, local entrants are vying for recognition as the very best in their markets.  Local winners then compete against other winners within their regions in one of 14 District competitions.  District winners are then forwarded to the National ADDY Awards competition.

Selection of the most creative entry in each category is effected by a scoring process in which a panel of judges evaluates all creative dimensions of every entry.  In each category, a GOLD ADDY is recognition of the highest level of creative excellence and is judged to be superior to all other entries in the competition.  Entries that are also considered outstanding and worthy of recognition receive a SILVER ADDY.”

Hospice of St. Francis submitted two entries in the SCAF competition and won one Gold and one Silver ADDY.    We received a Gold ADDY in the “Collateral Material Stationary Package Flat Printed” category for our stationary suite and business cards (designed by Andy Zavella of US Ad & Marketing, Inc. and printed by AllStar Printing.)  We also received a Silver ADDY in the “Consumer Magazine Full Page Four-Color” category for our National Hospice Month ad (designed by Andy Zavella of US Ad & Marketing, Inc. and appeared in the November, 2004 issue of Space Coast Living Magazine.)

December 15, 2004

HOSPICE OF ST. FRANCIS CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING OF NEW FACILITY

(Brevard County) - Hospice of St. Francis recently celebrated the Grand Opening of their new facility at 1250-B Grumman Place in Titusville.  In February of this year, Hospice of St. Francis purchased the 41,400 square foot building and has since renovated 17,000 square feet for their own use, while the remaining space continues to be leased by long-time tenant Fiserv.  The facility is located close to I-95, providing staff and volunteers easy access to patients throughout Brevard County.

The Grand Opening Celebration began with a ceremony outside the facility that included a presentation by Dr. Elizabeth Galfo, Hospice of St. Francis Medical Director.  Dr. Galfo noted that her role at Hospice of St. Francis is unique among hospice organizations.  “Traditionally, hospices have expected their medical directors to show up once a week for team meetings, sign records, give blessings to care plans, then return to private practices.  Three years ago, Executive Director Bruce Wolters approached me with the unique idea of becoming a more full-time member of the hospice team.”  Since that time, the Medical Staff has expanded to include a hospice physician (Dr. Leon Osmon) and an Advanced Registered Nurse Practioner (Dawn Zimmerman.)  The entire Medical Staff provide “hands-on” care, including regular visits with patients and their loved ones.

Wanda & Stan Andrews (Stan is the Board President)		Cora Postalwake (Quilter)

The ceremony also included the dedication of a “Family Conference Room” in honor of “…the small group of determined volunteers that introduced hospice care to Brevard County in 1977.  Through their vision, Hospice of St. Francis has continuously provided quality care for patients and support for loved ones.”   The Family Conference Room is furnished with comfortable “living-room” furniture and decorated with the “Butterflies of Life” quilt pieced and hand quilted by Cora Postalwake of Titusville. 

The Grand Opening concluded with a joint ribbon-cutting with representatives from the four Chambers of Commerce in Brevard County.   (Kathi Schillo, President/CEO of the Cocoa Beach Area Chamber, Bill Santore, Ambassador from the Greater Palm Bay Chamber, Lee Bohlman, President of the Melbourne-Palm Bay Chamber and Marcia Gaedcke, President of the Titusville Area Chamber.)  Guests were then invited to tour the facility, talk with staff and volunteers and enjoy some refreshments.  Over 150 community members were on hand to celebrate this milestone in the history of Hospice of St. Francis.

Ribbon Cutting, Front Row: Bill Colle, Lee Bohlman, Bruce Wolters, Stan Andrews, Dr. Elizabeth Galfo, Mayor Ron Swank, Kathi Schillo and Marcia Gaedke.

For further information about Hospice of St. Francis, please call us at 321.269.4240 (local) or 866.269.4240 (toll free) or visit our website www.hospiceofstfrancis.com.