A Jersey Girl harnesses the power of the Net to make her own breaks in the music world.

Photos: Deborah Lopez

There was a time in the not-too-distant past when the fate of a singer/guitarist/songwriter like Allie Moss would be in the hands of managers, producers, agents and lawyers. Indeed, the Folklore of Creativity abounds in cautionary tales of the tragedies inherent in the battle between art and commerce. Catching the public’s collective ear has always presented emerging artists with problems. For decades, they have been hostage to the stranglehold that commercial interests had on production, publicity and broadcasting.

Paying for studio time, getting good placement for your CDs in stores, and arranging for airplay frequently involved some sacrifices—like signing over percentages of one’s earnings. For life. The 20-something musicians of today, while hardly immune to bad endings like these, have taken progressively stronger control of their destinies. Moss, whose approach to self-promotion is as smart as her music, provides a refreshing view of the new, largely Internet-based methods of production and public relations.

The results speak for themselves. Just since the leaves began turning this autumn, she has had her song “Corners” featured on the ABC series Brothers & Sisters, followed by a career-boosting studio segment on Good Morning America. Moss’s fans keep up with her on Facebook, MySpace, YouTube, iLike and Tumblr. Her new album, Passerby, can be downloaded through iTunes or Amazon. Moss’s performance dates (she tours with Ingrid Michaelson) are listed at alliemoss.com. And those who hang on her every lyric can also hang on her every word at, you guessed it, Twitter.

Welcome to the world we live in—a bewildering matrix of blogs, search engines, social networking sites, cell phones, WiFi… but the basic situation is that you can access Ms. Moss’s oeuvre 24/7/365. Go check out her act at a club or in concert, and when you get home you can find dozens of her MP3 files; some are free, some are for-pay downloads. But the bottom line is that none of this is under the control— financial or artistic—of the record labels. Moss lives—or, more accurately, since she tours constantly, alights from time to time—in Jersey City. She laughs about her somewhat frantic life and admits that touring seemed an impossible goal when she was a child, since she suffered from paralyzing stage fright. “I got so scared once that I completely forgot the lyrics to the song I was singing. I just stood there, horrified and embarrassed.” As a teenager, Moss began journeying into New York to listen to friends work in clubs.

This led to her singing and playing backup, and then to finding gigs of her own. Several years ago she met Michaelson, a fast-rising singer and songwriter from Staten Island, and began backing her. Eventually she started to tour with Michaelson. Soon came their appearance on Good Morning America and then a gig as an opening act for the Dave Matthews Band. As Moss rattles off the names of her favorite contemporary musicians—among them Josh Ritter, Death Cab for Cutie, David Bazan and Greg Laslow—she habitually refers to their web sites, their pages, their video clips and the mashups they’re in. If you’re a young musician, it’s an open-source world. As Moss says, “Radio is cool, and once you’re established it’s critical. But it’s hard to break your music on radio if you’re not already a name. It’s so easy to find the music you want to hear online.” voice and deft guitar work.

Her writing explores the complex, sometimes joyous, sometimes heartbreaking passage from teenager to woman. Moss dodges the Pollyanna mentality that can make some folk music unpalatable. Her urban background doesn’t provide room for many illusions, but she knows, and expresses, the difference between being skeptical and falling into cynicism. Moss talks writing while on tour, snatching bits of time to jot down lines in an always-present notebook. On the song “Paper Cup,” she balances hope and caution, encouragement and doubt, and her delicate tones perfectly balance her spare, elegant playing. Many older, more experienced writers would love to have her rhetorical command. Of course, there’s the side of Moss that likes to sing “Rubber Ducky,” too. A spare, elegant “Rubber Ducky,” to be sure. In the future? “I love playing with Ingrid, and I guess I’ll do it as long as it works for both of us,” Moss says. “She’s so talented and so smart. I’ve learned tons from her, not only about writing and playing, but about the business side, about how to deal with touring.” So there’s that, and doing gigs in places like Kenny’s Castaways and the Baggott Inn in New York and Maxwell’s and The Saint in New Jersey, and writing songs. Moss also teaches voice.

She’s a devotee and practitioner, and, she thinks, the only Certified Level–1 instructor in the area of a method known as Speech Level Singing. And then, after all that’s taken care of, she allows, half sarcastically and half-wistfully, that she’d like to find time for some “normal” stuff. Alas, as Allie Moss’s star continues to rise, she may find that normal is a relative term…and that time could soon be the most precious commodity of all.

Editor’s Note: Bill Mehlman is a freelance writer with a passion for the music business. He lives and works in New York City.

MAKING STRIDES IN WESTFIELD

The EDGE Magazine crew—Rob Rubilla, Jeff Shanes, Doug Harris and Jama Bowman—man the Trinitas booth at the 13th Annual Downtown Westfield 5K & Pizza Extravaganza in July. Around 2,700 runners crossed the finish line moments before the skies opened up for a group cool-down. Trinitas was a Platinum Sponsor of the 5K. EMTs Jose Caba, Angela Boyd & Jon Abello led the runners off the start line in a Trinitas ambulance. Harris, Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations at Trinitas, presented awards to the top finishers along with Sherry Cronin, president of the Downtown Westfield Corporation.

WIDE WORLD OF NURSING

Two faculty mem-bers and 12 nursing students from the University of Notre Dame in Jacmel, Haiti, spent two weeks with faculty and students at the Trinitas School of Nursing.  The College of St. Elizabeth and the Sisters of Charity of St. Elizabeth joined the School of Nursing in hosting the program                     , which included classes and opportunities to improve their nursing skills by treating patients in the simulation lab. Bilin-gual faculty members and student “buddies” from the School of Nursing communicated with the students in Creole, and con-tributed to their immersion in U.S. nursing practices.

TRINITAS CIO NAMED CHAIR OF JERSEY HEALTH CONNECT

Jersey Health Connect has named Judy Comitto chairperson of its board of directors. Comitto is Vice President of Information Technology at Trinitas and Chief Information Officer. Jersey Health Connect—the state’s largest health information organization—offers a comprehensive network of 29 health systems and hospitals, over 3,500 clinicians, and long-term and post-acute care facilities.

CAPED CRUSADERS

Children visiting the Trinitas Family Health Center were transformed into superheroes recently, courtesy of employees and interns at Verizon. Verizon supplied dozens of capes to Trinitas as part of a nation-wide program that brings cheer to children undergoing medical care. Two-year old Walter Garay, and his sisters Yartiza (center) age 5 and Melissa, age 7, show off their colorful capes to mom Lisseth (left) and Teresa Andrews, Clinical Coordinator, Pediatric Health Center.

CHAMPS IN CAREGIVING

Dr. Edna Bacarro, Certified Nurse Midwife Marietta Jones, and RNs Danielle Passafiume and Cecilia Amaro display the hardware they brought home from the 2nd annual SimWARS at the Regional Perinatal Simulation Center at Saint Barnabas Medical Center. The Trinitas OB/GYN team members finished in first place, surpassing the competition in teamwork, communication, and clinical decision-making abilities in a patient care setting that used high-fidelity simulated patients.

KING FOR A DAY

Friend of EDGE Ron Shovlin shows off his newly named Shovlin Mattress Factory. The company is located in Fanwood and has been producing mattresses—right here in Jersey—for over 30 years.

THE VIEW FROM THE TOP

HealthcareIT News, published by Health Information Management and Systems Society, recently announced that in its 3rd Annual “Where to Work” Best Hospital IT Departments Program, the Information Technology (IT) Department of Trinitas topped its list of  10 Best Hospital IT Departments nationwide among medium-sized hospitals having 26 – 75 members. This bested the Trinitas IT department’s previous ranking in the 2012 Top 10 list.

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER

Trinitas’ own Lucy Esralew, PhD, administrator of the S-COPE (Statewide Clinical Outreach Program for the Elderly), will assist the Felician College External Advisory Board for the Institute for Gerontology as it examines its role in addressing the needs of the aged. As developer of S-COPE, Dr. Esralew established the state-wide network of clinicians who help nursing homes and assisted living facilities respond to senior mental health needs.

GRANT EQUALS HELP

The Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP) at Trinitas now reduces cases of hospital-acquired delirium among the senior population. A multi-disciplinary team of healthcare professionals has successfully reached more than 550 patients since March 2013. The Hospital-Acquired Delirium Project was made possible by a$100,000 grant from the Healthcare Foundation of NJ.

HELP Intervention Assistant Diana Noboa and HELP volunteers Adriana Dominguez and Rosa Alexandra spend time with patient Armande Samanamud.

MOONLIGHTING

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi celebrates publication of her new book, New Brunswick in the Civil War: The Brunswick Boys and The Great Rebellion at the Towne Book Store in Westfield. Rajoppi is flanked by two new fans, Paula Long of Westfield and Christine Bennett of Summit.

CODES RULE

Have you ever suffered a bite from an animal, crustacean or another person? Thankfully, there are numbers assigned to the more than 60,000 new codes of the World Health Organization’s latest version of its International Classification of Diseases (ICD). As information management meets patient care and safety, here’s hoping that Trinitas won’t be treating anyone suffering from ICD-10 W52.0…a human bite inflicted during a stampede!

MORE THAN A BAND AID

New Jersey hospitals serve 18 million patients each year, regardless of their ability to pay. According to the New Jersey Hospital Association’s (NJHA) 2013 NJ Hospitals Economic Report, the state’s hospitals contributed a record $20.4 billion to the Garden State economy in 2012.  As a safety net hospital, Trinitas provided in excess of $46,000,000 in charity care, $2,000,000 more than the federal and state allotments it receives to meet the needs of the uninsured and underinsured.

CARE-FULLY READY

75 women and 13 men in the January Class of Trinitas School of Nursing completed their nursing and Associate in Science program earlier this year. With graduates from Central and Northern New Jersey, Brooklyn, New York City, and Staten Island, the class was 8 shy of the school’s record-breaking class of 96 in January 2013.

VISIONARY HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATOR LEAVES IMPRESSIVE LEGACY

Trinitas mourns the passing earlier this year of George F. Billington, former president and CEO of Elizabeth General Medical Center (1963-1991). Billington (seated) is pictured with his successor, David A. Fletcher, who served in that role at EGMC from 1991-2000. Fletcher then became the first President/CEO of Trinitas from 2000-2001. The steps leading up to the creation of Trinitas in 2000 were set in motion one decade earlier when Billington accomplished EGMC’s acquisition of Alexian Brothers Hospital which now serves as the Trinitas New Point Campus.

PAGE TURNERS

Barnes & Noble Booksellers in Springfield has set children on a lifetime of reading enjoyment through its role in the Reach Out and Read (ROAR) program at Trinitas’ Pediatric Health Center. Book donations have reached children like 14-month old Ashley of Elizabeth, shown with Theresa Andrews, Clinical Coordinator of the Pediatric Health Center; her mother Maria Alfaro, and Veronica Vargas, Community Business Development Manager at Barnes & Noble.

SHARED VISION

The Trinitas Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Center hosted a world hunger awareness event to support World Vision humanitarian efforts in Haiti. The event was dedicated to the memory of WIC staff member Erva Williams, an advocate of families and children who WIC serves.

HITTING THE PAVEMENT

Walkers from Trinitas, the City of Elizabeth’s Health and Human Services Department, and the Eastern Union County YMCA enjoyed National Walking Day under sunny skies earlier this year. All enjoyed the brisk walk along the Elizabeth River Trail to promote walking as part of a healthy lifestyle. Trinitas employees at the New Point Campus in Elizabeth and the Finance offices in Cranford also participated.

LIFE SAVING MESSAGE

As guests on Mayor J. Christian Bollwage’s weekly cable show “Our City,” Debbie Durand, Clinical Coordinator, Trinitas Intensive Care Unit (left), and Jackie Lue Raia, Ass’t. Dir. of Resource Development at the NJ Sharing Network (center), discussed the importance of patients and their families giving serious thought to organ donation as a life-saving/life enhancing gift. Both women described the activities of Trinitas and the NJ Sharing Network that promote organ and tissue donation and advocate for those on organ transplant lists.

HEAD OF  THE CLASS

Rose Santee, Associate Dean of the Trinitas School of Nurs-ing, is serving a three-year term through 2017 as a member of the Board of Commissioners of the National League for Nursing’s (NLN) Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (CNEA).

Rose was one of the first educators nationally to obtain the certified nurse educator credential (CNE) from the National League for Nursing (NLN) in 2005. With more than 30 years experience in nursing education as a faculty member and as an educational administrator, Rose has been instrumental in advocating excellence in nursing education.

PAYING IT FORWARD

Roselle Park resident Mary Jo Daniel and Maritza Pineda of Elizabeth share a common bond as cancer survivors. In appreciation of the caring staff at the Center, Daniel paid it forward and gifted a “31” brand bag filled with comforting items to Pineda. It proved to be a small gesture with huge impact.

EQUIPPED TO LEAD

Gary S. Horan, FACHE, President and CEO, was featured in an interview in NJBIZ. In his cogent observations of the health care scene in New Jersey, Horan expressed his long-abiding belief in the value and importance of “safety net” hospitals such as Trinitas. He also offered his insider perspectives on the impact of the Affordable Care Act on health care delivery around the state. For a copy of the article send an email to: dharris@trinitas.org.

WELCOMING RETIREMENT

James Lape, former Senior Vice President of Behavioral Health & Psychiatry and Long Term Care, (third from right), capped off a decades-long career with a retirement dinner held at Galloping Hill Country Club.  Well-wishers including state, county and local dignitaries joined Jim and his family in the well-deserved send-off to retirement.

CUBS WIN

Cub Scout Den 3 Pack 260 recently visited DCH Millburn Audi. The Cub Scouts were given a tour of the Service Department and shown how Audis are serviced and repaired. It was a great experience for everyone.

Back Row: Miguel Rivera, Alan Palma (Service Mgr), Alfred Khouri (GM), Kevin Anderson (Den Leader). Front Row: (Brayton School Cub Scout Den 3 Pack 260): Jack Wilson, Justin Anderson, Patrick Murphy, Jack Holmes, Christopher Del Rosso, Lucas Stocks, and Oliver Relf. Den Leader Aileen Stokes was not available for the photo.

HEALING RULES

The fourth annual Wound Education Day at Trinitas showcased the state of the art treatments used at the Center for Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Medicine which achieves 90% heal rates for hard to heal wounds.  For information about successful and effective wound care at Trinitas, call (908)  994-5480.

20 YEARS… STILL RESPONDING

Pre-Hospital Services at Trinitas celebrated its 20th anniversary with special guests including Elizabeth Mayor Chris Bollwage (center). The Mobile Intensive Care Unit estimates it has responded to more than 15,000 calls and traveled more than 750,000 miles to reach patients and transport them rapidly to the Trinitas Emergency Department.

TAKING COMMUNITY ACTION

Joe McTernan, Senior Director of Community and Clinical Services, has been named to serve on the Union County Human Services Advisory Council (HSAC) through 2017. He will help influence a variety of community human services initiatives on the county level and those of the New Jersey Department of Human Services and the Department of Children and Families.

40 YEARS…STILL ADVANCING

Janine Graf-Kirk, RN, has been awarded a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from Walden University. She is the first nurse at Trinitas Regional Medical Center and the Trinitas School of Nursing to earn this advanced degree, which coincides with her 40th year as a nurse. Graf-Kirk also holds a Master’s degree in Nursing Education from New York University in 1988.

PREPARED TO LEAD

Upon the recent retirement of James Lape as Senior Vice President of Behavioral Health & Psychiatry and Long Term Care, James McCreath, PhD, has been appointed Vice President of Behavioral Health and Psychiatry. With 35 years of leadership experience, McCreath most recently served as President and CEO of Cerebral Palsy of New Jersey. A graduate of Seton Hall University, Jim also holds a Master’s from Columbia University School of Social Work and a Ph.D. from the NYU School of Social Work.

SECURE AROUND THE CLOCK

For its adoption and implementation of an innovative security system, the Trinitas Security Department was recognized as a “Power Player in Security Leadership” by Security Magazine. Pictured, left to right: Security Officer Westley Wallace, Glenn Nacion, VP of Human Resources, John Dougherty, Director of Security, Gary S. Horan, President and CEO, Security Capt. Alberto Ortiz, and Scott Janks, Security Manager, proudly display their award.  The Trinitas Health Foundation funded the security system.

ICING ON THE CAKE!

Trinitas celebrated its Top Hospital designation from Castle Connolly Ltd. as a top Hospital Overall and in the categories of breast cancer, prostate cancer, treatment of congestive heart failure, high risk pregnancy and high patient satisfaction rates in doctor communication and cleanliness.  At all three campuses, everyone enjoyed a slice of cake like this one that LaVerne Tucker and George Amabile of the New Point campus show off for the camera.

ALL IN THE FAMILY

Ophthalmologist and cataract surgeon Dr. Corey Notis and his son, Alex, collect a load of supplies at the Guayaquil airport in Ecuador. Dr. Notis recently took time off from his offices in Springfield, Union and Linden to embark on a medical mission to Guayaquil. Dr. Notis was accompanied by Alex and his wife, Bonnie, both of whom are fluent in Spanish. They assisted with interpretation for patients and their families. Corey, Bonnie and Alex arrived with 10 boxes of much-needed clothing, books, school supplies and medication—much of it collected by students at Tenafly High, where Alex is a sophomore. The Notis family volunteered at a medical clinic in the country’s most populous city under the auspices of SEE (Surgical Eye Expeditions) International. Over the past 40 years, SEE has facilitated more than 400,000 surgeries in developing countries.

POWER  PLAYER

Gary S. Horan, FACHE, President & CEO of Trinitas, is among an elite group of New Jersey health-care executives in the prestigious Power 50 in Healthcare list deter m  i n  e d   by NJBIZ. His ranking of #29 rests on his ability “to effectively lead Trinitas in a challenging environment” as a single entity urban hospital.  NJBIZ further reported that “Trinitas boasts a recently-opened $5.2 million Ambulatory Surgery Center and the nationally-recognized Trinitas School of Nursing.  Horan has also served as the first non-New York chairman of the Greater New York Hospital Association.”  According to an industry insider, “He’s done an unbelievable job of shepherding an urban hospital, proving it can be done.”

DESIGNED FOR NURSES

Two residency programs for novice nurses at Trinitas acquaint them with Emergency and Medical Surgical Nursing through a care-fully-designed 12-week program described as “a strong option for motivated nurses.”

COLON HEALTH… FROM A TO Z

Andrea Zimmern, MD, colorectal surgeon at Trinitas, pauses for a photo with Elizabeth Rotary Club president Jim Duffy (left) and Rotary member Doug Harris, Vice President/Marketing & Public Relations. A graduate of New York Medical College, Dr.  Zimmern joined Trinitas in 2011 where she initiated a complete colorectal surgery program including the latest treatment procedures using robotic surgery. She spoke to the club about colorectal health, risk factors and disease treatment.

A LOOK INSIDE TRINITAS

Juniors at Benedictine Academy in Elizabeth concluded a four-day immersion in the Emergency Department, Speech Therapy, the Cancer Center, Pediatric Health Center, Maternal/Child Health, the Pharmacy, and Diagnostic Imaging at Trinitas.  They experienced the hospital setting and saw how departments work together to help patients.

BEYOND MEDICINE

Richard J. Newman, professor of English at Nassau Community College in Garden City, NY, (at far right, facing group), conducted a “Poetry Heals” workshop for Trinitas medical residents.  Partic-ipants stepped outside of the box to consider poetry’s potential to enrich their professional lives.

SHADOWING GETS AN A+

Now in its 10th consecutive year, students from Abraham Clark High School in Roselle participated in a five month-long program to observe and work side-by-side with Trinitas employees in a “shadowing” experience. This insider’s look gave them a deeper understanding of healthcare.

OPEN FOR BUSINESS

Trinitas President & CEO Gary S. Horan presides over the ribbon-cutting for the new Ambulatory Surgery Center. Elizabeth Mayor Chris Bollwage does the honors along with

(l to r) TRMC Vice-Chairman Victor Richel, Chairperson Sister Rosemary Moynihan and NJ Sen. Raymond Lesniak. Surgical team members from the hospital’s existing operating room services will staff the $5.2 million facility.

STOUTHEARTED MEN

The January 2014 class of the Trinitas School of Nursing included a record number of 20 men among the 89 graduates awarded their diplomas and their Associate degrees. This is the largest number of male graduates in the school’s 123-year history.  The multiethnic program is recognized as one of the largest nursing schools in the nation.

THE RIGHT PRESCRIPTION

The Bergen Pharmacy has opened a new convenient location to serve patients at Trinitas in the lobby of the Medical Office Building at the Williamson Street Campus.  Nancy DiLiegro, FACHE, PhD, Vice President of Clinical Operations and Physicians Services, and Chief Clinical Officer (right), welcomed Pharmacist-in-charge Nirav Halani, RPh, and Pharmacy Technician Amelia Nieto.

TOUCHDOWN!

With parents Patti and John Dougherty of Summit, Colm Dougherty, a linebacker, running back, team captain, and MVP for the Hilltoppers, was named to the New Jersey Football Coaches Association Super 100 team of the Top 100 players in the state.  The team’s leading tackler with an impressive 102, Colm ran the ball 160 times to gain 1,267 yards. With 22 touchdowns to his credit in the 2013 season, the 17 year old senior heads off to the gridiron at Gettysburg College in September.  John Dougherty is Director of Security at Trinitas.

REFRESHER COURSE

Staff from Trinitas’ Institute of Healthcare and Community Education visited the Roselle School District to conduct CPR training for the district’s athletic coaches, health/physical education teachers, nurses, security guards and custodians. Trinitas staff members contributed to the knowledge base of those who attended the program.

HAIL TO THE CHEF!

Orietta Rodriguez, Executive Assistant to Gary S. Horan, President and CEO (right), received thanks and a plaque from Ken Richuso, Chairman of the Elizabeth Rotary’s 2013 Taste of Elizabeth, for her menu offerings during the food tasting event.

PASSING OF A “DYNAMO”

Trinitas lost one of its most devoted and tireless Auxilians in January when Liz Weishapl of Union passed away following a brief illness.  Serving as an Auxilian for nearly 40 years, first with the St. Elizabeth Hospital Guild and then with Trinitas, Liz was a valuable asset to both organizations. From service as Auxiliary President, to arranging vendor sales and participating in numerous special events, Liz was dedicated and generous of spirit.

HEAVEN SENT

Diego Roldan, volunteer in the Emergency Department and Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP) at Trinitas, was recently named one of the five honorees in New Jersey Monthly’s annual Seeds of Hope program.  Roldan was among 65 nominees from around the state who were considered for their influence and impact on others by supporting their communities, helping neighbors, and giving back. He frequently reads passages of the Bible to patients because he believes “God sent me here.”

John Emerson Photography, New Jersey Monthly magazine

PROGRESS IN THE WORKS

Trinitas Regional Medical Center celebrated the transformation of its Emergency Department with a ceremonial groundbreaking at the Williamson Street Campus. The $18 project to be completed in 2017 will expand the current patient exam areas to 45, up from 26, and renovate the center to move services like x-rays and CT scans closer to patients in order to accelerate delivery of emergency care. Donors, local community leaders, legislators, senior management, and members of the Emergency Department staff hailed the progress as a major step toward ensuring quality healthcare delivery to the City of Elizabeth and communities beyond.

POWERHOUSE SURGEON

Labib E. Riachi, MD, FACOG, Chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Trinitas, has received subspecialty certification in pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery by the Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the American Board of Urology. Since completing his training in 2001 under leading surgeons in women’s obstetrical/gynecological and urological health in Europe and the US, Dr. Riachi has performed more than 3500 of these surgeries at Trinitas.

FORMULA FOR SUCCESS

Chatham Day School hosts 4th Annual S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) Expo on Saturday, January 9, 2016 from 2:00-4:00 p.m.  This event is free to the public and is excellent for the entire family.

TWO NEWCOMERS

Westfield Smiles Dental Health & Wellness Center, which has served area patients for more than three decades, recently w

elcomed two dentists to town. Dr. Maral Regas and Dr. Stephanie Arismendi joined Dr. Adam E. Feret’s general dental practice at 440 East Broad Street. “The best part of being a dentist is the feeling you made a positive difference by educating and helping patients protect their teeth and improve their smiles,” says Dr. Arismendi, a Rutgers grad. “Being part of the practice of Dr. Feret will allow me to continue to do that.”

WOMAN OF INFLUENCE

Teacher, clinical educator, and mentor, Dr. Purabi Bharatiya of the Trinitas Department of Psychiatry, was awarded the Archbishop J. John Myers Outstanding Educator Award in Medical Education from Seton Hall University.  Dr. Bharatiya, along with Dr. Anwar Y. Ghali, Chairman of Psychiatry, created and developed the Trinitas Psychiatric Residency Program.  She is shown with, from left, Gary S. Horan, President and CEO, Dr. Anwar Y. Ghali, and James McCreath, Vice President, Behavioral Health and Psychiatry.

THE DOCTORS ARE IN

Drs. Sergio Baerga and Vasyl Pidkaminetskiy, physicians newly-affiliated with Trinitas, invited the community to the offices of Trini-tas Physicians’ Practice located on St. Georges Avenue in Rahway.  Welcoming patients to the practice are from left, Joanna Ayala, Office Manger, Dr. Baerga, Eryn Mckenzie, Medical Assis-tant, and Dr. Pidkaminetskiy. Dr. Baerga is board certified in gen-eral surgery and fluent in Spanish and English while Dr. Pidkaminetskiy is board certified in family practice and internal medicine, with fluency in Ukranian, Russian, Polish and English.

AIN’T IT GRAND!

More than 200 guests, including NJ Senator Tom Kean Jr., attended the Grand Reopening party for The Kenilworth on September 29th. The boutique hotel renovated its 109 rooms and hired Rothweiler Event Designs to create 6,000 square feet of unique party and event spaces, including a downstairs lounge and an upstairs banquet facility. Both rooms showcased the offerings of  The Kenilworth’s Executive Chef, Andrew Proto. “It was thrilling to have been able to introduce our contemporary vision of the Kenilworth,” said co-owner Sonali Mody. The kenilworthinn.com web site features a visual tour of the property.

PURPLE HATS FOR NEWBORN NOGGINS

The Stitch Club of the Church of the Holy Innocents in West Orange lovingly crafted purple hats for babies at Trinitas in support of Shaken Baby Syndrome Month, observed in September. Michael Lisa, Trinitas CPR instructor, also the husband of Stitch Club member Robin Lisa, made the annual delivery to Hana Baudendistel, MS, BSN, RN, NE-BC, Clinical Information Systems Design Coordinator.

WATCH THE PRESIDENT OF TRINITAS SOAR!

The SOAR! 34th annual New York Awards Gala honored Trinitas President/CEO Gary S. Horan, FACHE with the Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Award at the virtual event in September. Horan is a former member of the Board of Directors of SOAR! (Support Our Aging Religious). This national organization provides grants to help Catholic religious congregations in the US care for their elderly and infirm members.

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH LEADER

Salvatore G. Savatta, MD has been appointed the Chairman of Behavioral Health and Psychiatry at Trinitas. Dr. Savatta previously served as the Interim Chairman of the Department since 2019.

Dr. Savatta is Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry. He received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics from New York University and his M.D. from NYU School of Medicine. In addition, he holds a M.S. in Biostatistics Clinical Research Methods from Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health. Prior to completing his Psychiatry Residency at St. Vincent’s Catholic Medical Center, he served three years as a surgical resident. He also completed a Forensic Psychiatry Fellowship at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center – Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic.

FOR THE LOVE OF MIDWIVES

When Nikita Lazo of Union delivered her baby, Dylan Ramirez, she wanted to let the midwives at Trinitas know how thrilled she was with her birthing experience.
“Carol Rose-Trzaska my midwife was wonderful,” Nikita said. “She was so sweet and helpful to me; I felt very comfortable with her since day one. When I met her I liked the way she explained everything to me and also listened to what I had to say. She was more of a mother to me. Shanaya Recalde, CNM, helped me with breastfeeding and showed me what to do so it wasn’t painful. Other nurses like Pat Henn, Analisa Rameriz, and Margaret Waldrop, were also very helpful. I would recommend them and rate them 10 stars. I will always remember that team.”

DRIVEN BY THE GOSPEL

The Pastoral Care Department at Trinitas celebrates Father Stephen Chukwuemeka Aribe’s 25 years as a priest. Father Stephen was ordained a Catholic Priest on July 15, 1995, at Mater Dei Cathedral in Umuahia Diocese in the Eastern region of Nigeria. As he has been a committed, dedicated servant of God, Father Stephen says, it’s important to add, “driven by the Gospel of Truth.”

DOCTOR FOR  THE WOUNDED

Dr. Michael R. Zaboski has joined the Trinitas Center for Wound Healing & Hyperbaric Medicine. Known for his razor-sharp memory and calming presence, Dr. Zaboski is a true asset to the team. He is no stranger to wound care. While attending medical school at Saint George’s University School of Medicine, he received extensive experience in wound care management in his surgical rotation at Queen Alexandria Hospital in Portsmouth, England. He was named Chief Resident at St. Elizabeth Hospital in what is now the Rutgers New Jersey Medical School/Trinitas Regional Medical Center Internal Medicine Residency Program.

HELP-FUL CONNECTIONS

Elizabeth High School teens connect with elder patients at Trinitas’ Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP) that helps keep older patients alert during a hospital stay. Alice Williams shared stories about her travels around the world with Georgio Molta and Nikita Verme during a recent craft session.

SILVER LINING

With Trinitas in the background, Rod Muench, ERN, MPS, MICP, Director of PreHospital Services, and Brant Maslowski, BA, MICP, Coordinator of the Trinitas MICU, stand with pride at the Trinitas Paramedics vehicle. Under Maslowski’s direction, the TRMC MICU achieved the 2015 Mission: Lifeline® EMS Silver Level Recognition Award from the American Heart Association (AHA). The TRMC MICU, which delivers advanced life support for the City of Elizabeth, received the recognition for delivering quality care to patients experiencing chest pain. The award was based on the 2014 emergency response data Trinitas supplied to the AHA.

THE SCOOP ON JOE PISCOPO

New Jersey’s own and Saturday Night Live funny man, Joe Piscopo, left the microphone of his current talk-show gig on Salem Media’s AM970 “The Answer” to visit with Trinitas as part of the Ice Cream Social held every year during Hospital Week. The “meet and greet” with the SNL alum happened after this issue of EDGE went to press, but take it from us, he didn’t disappoint.

IT’S A SHORE THING

The Elizabeth Rotary Club connected with the Rotary Interact Club of Elizabeth High School for a day of prepping the beach for summer. The Ocean Action Beach Sweep brought out teens who rolled up their sleeves, performed a valuable community service, and took in lots of rays at the one and only Jersey shore.

POWER PLAYER 

Gary S. Horan, FACHE, President  & CEO, has been named to the prestigious Power 50 Healthcare list published each year by NJBIZ.  This marks the fourth year that he has made the Power 50, during which he improved his standing by moving up 4 notches to #27. Horan is also the 2016 recipient of the New Jersey Hospital Association’s Distinguished Service Award – the highest recognition given by NJHA.

A NAME KNOWN ‘ROUND THE WORLD       

The reputation of the Trinitas School of Nursing stretches across the US and around the world. Nursing educators from the University of Auckland recently visited the school while in the New York metro area. Professor Melanie Birks and Associate Professor Jane Mills, of the University of Auckland, and Dr. Karen Hoare of the Centre for Nursing and Midwifery at James Cook University, shared findings in a study inspired by a previous visit to the school in 2011, when they learned about the patient simulation teaching model used here. 

SHE’S NOTEWORTHY! 

At the 11th Annual Harmabee Breakfast of the Greater Elizabeth Area Section of the National Council of Negro Women, Pamela Glover (second from left), Program Coordinator, Nursing Division, received the Section Award for her dedication and service.  Pam celebrated with Cleadal Waye, Dr. Patricia Bennett, Erica Blount, and Joann Blount. 

NEW NURSING LEADER       

The New Jersey Chapter of the National League for Nursing recently announced that John Lanier, RN, MS, NE-BC, OR Manager, Bloodless Medicine & Surgery Program and Nursing Performance Improvement, has been appointed its president-elect to serve from 2016 – 2019.  

Photo Credit: Grace Photography

Photo Credit: Grace Photography

JUST WHAT THE DOCTOR ORDERED! 

While there are no people in these “People Page” photos, the completion of Phase 1 of Trinitas’ ER construction project will help many people – more than 73,000 per year to be exact.  The new space will include 45 treatment rooms (up from its current 28), and separate treatment areas for families, children and seniors. Coming on line this month are a new reception/waiting/registration area, and a 128-slice CT Scanner.  The overall project will be completed next year.

GARY HORAN INTERVIEWED ON NPR 

Freelance science writer Katie Hiler recently conducted a radio interview with President and CEO Gary S. Horan that was broadcast on WNYC, the local affiliate of National Public Radio. Ms. Hiler sought out Mr. Horan because of his passionate support of the reconfiguration of the Omnia plan of Blue Cross and Blue Shield.   

MILES OF SMILES 

Westfield Smiles was one of the sponsors and participated on Sunday, April 24, 2016, in the 5th Annual NJ Miles with Moms 5k and Fun Run at Oak Ridge Park in Clark.  The event was hosted by the Mothers’ Center of Central NJ  with families and athletes throughout the local community running and walking to support mothers and families.

GPS COMES TO GREEN BROOK 

The General Plumbing Supply Team at their new Green Brook Showroom is ready to help customers with all their kitchen, bath and lighting needs. GPS is one of the largest plumbing supply operations in the state, with fourteen locations — nine of which are showrooms — designed to show off the latest trends in kitchen and bath design. GPS works with contractors and homeowners alike, and they partner with all of the best-known brands, from Kohler and Moen to KraftMaid and Grohe. Thanks to Elisabeth Woomer for her help with the story on page 15.

ALWAYS ROOM FOR ONE MORE AWARD 

Trinitas honorees gathered to display their awards at the 97th Meeting of the New Jersey Hospital Association. At center, Gary S. Horan, President and CEO, FACHE, displaying his 2016 Distinguished Service Award, flanked by, from left, Joe McTernan, DHSc, FACHE, Senior Director of Community and Clinical Services; Mary McTigue, VP, Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Offi-cer, Brant Maslowski, MICP, Mobile ICU Coordinator, holding the Excellence in Quality Improvement Award which recognized Trinitas’ Mobile Integrated Health Service (MIHS) program; Raffi Matossian, MD, Emergency Department; Lucy Ankrah MA, MSN, ANP-BC, Transitional Care Coordinator, and Rod Muench, Director, Pre-Hospital Services, all of whom celebrated both awards.

I AM LEGEND 

Shade M. Lee, a 94-year-old Elizabeth resident who served in World War II as one of the Tuskegee Airmen, was saluted for his service by receiving a “We Honor Veterans” certificate from the VA and NHPCO program in recognition of his service and sacrifice. The Tuskegee Airmen were the first African-American military aviators in the United States Armed Forces. They served as air fighters and bombers in World War II. Lee trained at Moton Field, the Tuskegee Army Air Field, and was educated at Tuskegee University, in Alabama.  Trinitas staff members celebrated his historic place in US military history.

KUDOS FOR COMMITMENT 

Carolyn Forcina, Regional Representative for the American Hospital Association in Washington, DC, presented a plaque to Gary S. Horan, President and CEO, in recognition of the decades of service Trinitas and its predecessor hospitals have offered to the residents of Elizabeth and surrounding communities.  

A DEGREE ABOVE

Rutgers University School of Nursing graduate, Dr. Dawn M. Zimmerman,DNP, RNC, APN, CNE, faculty member at the Trinitas School of Nursing  (right), is now among the less than 1% of nurses nationwide who hold the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. She joins Nicole A. Champagne,  BS, RN, DNP (left) and Janine Graf-Kirk, DNP, RN-BC, CNE, of the School  of Nursing, who hold this prestigious advanced degree.

WORD OF MOUTH

The Garden Restaurant in Union recently welcomed the acclaimed Justin Massie as its new Executive Chef. Massie, a graduate of the California Culinary Academy of San Francisco, honed his craft in prestigious 5-star kitchens, including the Ritz Carlton Dana Point in Laguna Beach and the Peninsula and SLS Hotels, both in Beverly Hills.  He returned to New Jersey to work at the celebrated Heldrich in New Brunswick. “You need to love what you do to be successful in this industry, and I absolutely love what I do,” Massie says. “Even if it’s a classic dish, I look to put my own contemporary twist on it, just to show people something they’ve never seen before. I look to outdo myself on a daily basis, and that’s what gives me the drive to get to the next level with everything I do.

IMAGE IS EVERYTHING 

Elegant Image in Westfield held a grand reopening recently at its more spacious quarters on South Avenue West. Owner Claudia Cruz and her husband Jon Regen (center) did the ribbon-cutting honors as Westfield business leaders Jerry Sullivan, Jeffrey Christakos, Gene Jannotti, salon manager AmyLynn Rollins, members of the Elegant Image staff, and Councilman Sam Della Fera, celebrated the relocation. The Westfield salon was previously located on West Broad Street.

Photo provided by Joe Renna, Photographer

SEEING IS BELIEVING

The Eye Care & Surgery Center hosted the Westfield Chamber of Commerce for an evening of education and engagement. From left to right: Gene Janotti, Greater Westfield Chamber Board Member; Dr. Joel Confino and Dr. Ivan Jacobs, co-founders of Eye Care & Surgery Center, and Dr. Milton Kahn, partner.

TRINITAS MENTORING PROGRAMS FUEL PASSION

TRINITAS ER TECHNICIAN ACCEPTED TO ELITE NURSING PROGRAM 

Lauren McCue (left) began her journey at Trinitas through the HELP Program (Hospital Elder Life Program), which is designed to prevent delirium by keeping hospitalized older patients oriented to their surroundings. Johanna Thomas (right), Coordinator of the HELP Program, guided Lauren through her time as a volunteer, during which Lauren received specialized training that would eventually help her provide quality care for patients throughout the hospital. Lauren then worked as an Emergency Room  Techni-cian at Trinitas and was recently accepted into the Massachusetts General Hospital Nursing Program, a program to which only 13 students are accepted into a year. “I cannot be more grateful for my time at Trinitas. From my experiences as a volunteer to an ER technician, Trinitas has a supportive learning environment that allowed me to grow and find my passion,” says Lauren. 

TRINITAS NURSING CAMP VETERAN RETURNS TO THE O.R.       

 Hisham Santiago, RN, began his career at  Trinitas as a  volunteer. During the summer of 2008 he volunteered part-time and participated in a week of Nurse Camp at Trinitas. During Summer Nurse Camp, students partner with nurse mentors as they perform their daily tasks, tour the hospital, witness surgical procedures, attend medical lectures, and earn their CPR certification. “Nurse Camp at Trinitas exposed me to the clinical setting of what nursing is all about. It helped me to open my eyes,” says Hisham. From his Nurse Camp experience, Hisham decided he wanted to become a nurse—and so he did—and has returned to Trinitas as an OR nurse. Hisham’s mother Brighida Santiago, RNFA is an OR nurse at Trinitas as well!

WOMAN OF THE YEAR 

Heidi Reavis, an EDGE Magazine contributor, was honored by the Women’s City Club of New York with its 2016 Centennial Civic Spirit Award for her work in anti-discrimination, employment law, television and film. Heidi has also been recognized by the Women’s Sports Foundation for her successful work in Title IX desegregation in scholastic sports. Her most recent EDGE story— “How the Smartest Guy In the Room Can Be the Stupidest Guy on the Planet”—was co-authored with Neil Parent and looks at the five costliest legal mistakes people make. You can find it at edgemagonline.com/home26.htm.

JOSEPHINE’S PLACE AND TRINITAS TEAM UP 

Josephine’s place has long been a staple in the Elizabeth commu-nity as a refuge for women who have come across hard times. The center has evolved to include workshops, events, and even a community garden. Trinitas has played a big role in the expansion of the center’s services and events, more particularly through CPR Training. Karen Lukenda, CPR Instructor at Trinitas, has held ongoing certification classes that provide attendees with up-to-date lifesaving tactics at no cost. 

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS 

Ashley Schultz, Robert Schultz and Lloyd Perkel welcome customers to the new Short Hills location of Schultz Furrier and M. Blaustein, at 516 Millburn Avenue. The two multi-generational businesses, renowned for service, style and selection—and respectful competitors for six decades—have merged to offer clients the complete luxury outerwear experience.

TRINITAS SCHOOL OF NURSING WELCOMES NEW DEAN 

Trinitas welcomes Donna Penn, MSN, new Dean of the Trinitas School of Nursing. Donna comes from Mercer County Community College, where she served as the Director of Nursing Education and pro-vided leadership and oversight for all aspects of the Associate’s Degree program. Throughout her career she has developed partnerships to ensure seamless academic progression of graduates and their success. 

ZIKA VIRUS FORUM EASES CONCERNS   

Trinitas Regional Medical Center collaborated with the City of Elizabeth to host a forum on the Zika virus on July 17th and informed the general public on not only the status of the virus, but preventative measures as well.  Dr. William Farrer and Dr. Munir Nazar were able to elaborate on the origins and prenatal effects of the Zika virus.

TRINITAS DONATES  LAB COATS TO “HOSPITAL” AT LINDEN HIGH SCHOOL 

On behalf of Trinitas Regional Medical Center, Gary S. Horan (center), President and Chief Executive Officer of Trinitas, donated 30 lab coats to the Anatomy & Physiology honors class at Linden High School. Science teacher Kelly Gallagher had contacted the hospital to ask if there might be used lab coats available to her students. She explained, “I run my Anatomy & Physiology classes like a hospital and treat my students like they are new residents treating ‘patients’ by researching and running labs based on case studies.” According to Mr. Horan, the opportunity to help the students was a “perfect match” with Trinitas’ many programs designed to introduce young people to health careers. 

TRINITAS EXPANDS IN EXCELLENCE 

The Nursing Division at Trinitas was honored at the National League for Nursing Summing in    Orlando,  FL   with  a second-time designation  as a “National League for Nursing Center of Excellence for Creating a Workplace Environment that Supports the Academic Progression of Nurses.” Trinitas is one of only four hospitals in the US to receive this designation. “Over the last four years, 160 nurses at Trinitas have enrolled in BSN and MSN education and increased the BSN rate by 14.3%. This is a great accomplishment that demonstrates how strongly Trinitas nurses believe in the value of academic progression and its subsequent improvements in patient care,” says Mary McTique, Vice-President, Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer. 

THINK PINK!

Dr. Michelle Cholankeril (left) and Dr. Adriana Suarez-Ligon (right) teamed up to host a breast health seminar for the community at the Garden Restaurant in Union. The seminar,  a part of Trinitas’ ongoing community initiatives, shed light on early detection, treatments, and new developments in breast cancer. The lecture brought ease and insight to those attendees looking to heal wounds of the past and present.

LAILA’S GEMS BRING HOPE 

Laila a’merie Hall visited Trinitas Regional Medical Center in august with her parents Curtis and veronica to donate handmade bracelets to the hospital’s Pediatric Clinic. Laila participated in the n.a.M. (national american Miss) Princess Pageant august 12th and 13th, representing the state of new Jersey. Laila’s Community Service Platform, Laila’s gems, are hand-made bracelets made by Laila that are delivered to little girls in hospitals who are dealing with a traumatic illness or disease. it is Laila’s hope and prayer that when each little girl looks down at her wrist, it will bring a smile to her face and will enable her to think of a much happier time and place. it is her desire to make every little girl feel special, no matter the circumstances. Laila’s gems are not only the bracelets that she makes but are the many beautiful friends she meets along her journey to “bring rays of sunshine” to a little girl’s life.

Pictured above: (left to right) Curtis Hall, Rob Eccles (Trinitas Health foundation), Laila Hall, and veronica Hall.

PICTURE PERFECT 

Clark resident Thomas Wacaster shows off his painting, daily Commute, which won first Place overall in the Union County Senior Citizen’s art Show, and Second Place in the category of Oil Painting in the new Jersey Seniors show.  The painting depicts the historic Erie Lackawanna train terminal in Hoboken.  a local realtor, Tom has indulged in his hobby for over 50 years.

PERFECT MATCH

Trinitas extended a big “thank you” to the Rotary Club of Elizabeth recently, for the club’s $10,000 donation to Trinitas’ Emergency department expansion program. Rotary members visited Trinitas for lunch and a behind-the-scenes tour of the ER, including the new 128-slice CTscanner.  Thanks to a challenge grant from the JC Kellogg foundation, the club’s gift was matched, resulting in$20,000 going to Trinitas!

RECORD BREAKING TURNOUT 

Springfield¹s annual Township Street fair shattered its previous attendance record. Organized by the Springfield Patriot Chamber of Commerce and proudly supported by Wolf Premier Properties, the event offered something for people of all ages. Each fall, the fair features an innovative twist. This year it was horse and carriage rides. Crowds enjoyed lively music, tasty food, a vintage car show and great news and information on the town.

GOING BEYOND STIGMA

Members of the Adult Outpatient unit in Behavioral Health & Psychiatry joined in the Mental Health Association’s Fight Stigma Walk and 5K Run in Clark on November 7. Laura Varriale-Ciardiello came in second for the 5K run among the 150 walkers and runners on hand from all over the state. More than a dozen Trinitas employees and friends participated.   

FORE!

The PGA Championship is being held this summer at Baltusrol Golf Club in Springfield, NJ. Fans and volunteers from all 50 states and nearly 30 countries are expected to attend the event, which runs from July 25 to 31. “This overwhelming response from golf fans and volunteers across the country, and around the world, confirms that the 2016 PGA Championship will truly be a global event,” says Championship Director Ryan Cannon, who is responsible for managing all of the business outside the ropes — from marketing to security to government relations.

LEADERS MEET         

Trinitas recently hosted a visit by Cathleen Bennett, Acting Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Health, to gain a further understanding of healthcare delivery in New Jersey. In addition to meeting with Gary S. Horan, President and CEO, and other members of senior management, Acting Commissioner Bennett toured the Trinitas Comprehensive Cancer Center and the new Ambulatory Surgery Center.  

POSITIVE STEPS

More than 100 members of the health, law enforcement, human services and faith communities participated in a comprehensive program held at Trinitas that focused on breaking the cycle of re-incarceration.  Linda Reynolds (right), Director Adult Ambulatory Services at Trinitas, and Union County Sheriff Joe Cryan (left) were among the attendees. Keynote speakers included Ella Teal, CEO of the Urban League of Union County, and Senator Raymond Lesniak. The event was hosted by the Union County Re-Entry Task Force.

FAST ACTION  

Facial drooping, Arm Weakness, Speech Difficulty, Time to Call 911 was the message as Trinitas observed World Stroke Day in October. Employees visited an information table to better understand “brain attack.” J. Christian Bollwage, Mayor of Elizabeth, presented Trinitas with a formal Proclamation saluting the medical center’s efforts to promote education and awareness of stroke. The Mayor, center, and Stroke Coordinator Terry Finamore, at his left, joined the Stroke Team for a group photo. 

CHEESE, CHATTER & CHEER

Dr. Milton Kahn and Nancy Drumm were among the 20-plus attendees at an event held at The Eye Care & Surgery Center. Drumm, Membership Director of the Woodbridge Chamber of Commerce, hosted the event, which featured a Q&A with Dr. Kahn. 

PUTTING SENIORS FIRST

The Senior Citizens Council of Union County hosted its fall health event dedicated to seniors issues and concerns. Dr. Vasyl Pidkaminetskiy, MD, Trinitas family medicine practitioner and internist in Rahway, discussed pain medication in seniors and avoidance of dependence and addiction, while Ann Marie Scanlon, Director of Diagnostics, offered blood pressure checks during the well-attended event. 

Trinitas celebrated Heart Month with a fashion show and heart talk, “Paint the Town: Go Red for Women” in February at Lord & Taylor in Westfield, where women learned about heart disease and had fun in the process.  

Trinitas literally went
red during the month!

Heart Month and National Wear Red Day were celebrated in style at Trinitas in a number of ways. At the start of the month, Elizabeth Mayor Chris Bollwage proclaimed National Wear Red Day at a special presentation in the Trinitas lobby. Dr. Mirette Habib addressed 40 women on heart health during a “Going Red for Women” event held at Lord & Taylor in Westfield.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

In February, Gwen Hassell (in orange and black) organized a Black History Month celebration feast for the Trinitas Operating Room staff. Gwen is joined by (left to right) Corssette Pratt, Joan Richard and Cathy Gittens.

AMAZING STARTS HERE

Kiddie Academy of Springfield, an educational childcare center, is open and enrolling new families. A brand new, state of the art facility with highly trained teachers and Life Essentials curriculum, the academy creates the opportunity for children to become truly amazing. They recently held their Grand Opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony which was accompanied by Jeff Pleis, Kiddie Academy Corporate, Nancy Kovacs, Director,  Aanal Parikh, Owner, Mike Scalera, Chamber Co-Chair, Springfield Police Captain Pat McLaughlin and Lieutenant Jon Rachel, Chamber Co-Chair Scott Seidel and Chamber VP Elliot Merkin.

SKY’S THE LIMIT

State and local dignitaries joined the management team of Sky Zone to celebrate the opening of its 35,000 square feet indoor aerial action park on Route 22 in Springfield. The facility offers trampoline courts, a warped wall, “Skyslam” slam dunking, an Ultimate Dodgeball Court and a Foam Zone. Left to right for the ribbon cutting are Elliott Merkin of the Chamber of Commerce, Township Committeeman Chris Capodice, Sky Zone GM Rich Niemczyk, State Senator Tom Kean, Springfield Mayor Rich Huber, franchise owner Mike Janay, Operations Manager Keith Wilhelmy, and Chamber of Commerce Co-Chair Mike Scalera.

WE HEAR YOU NOW

Thank you, Phillips 66 Bayway Refinery for the donation of five new Motorola APX 6000 portable radios for the Trinitas Mobile Intensive Care Unit (MICU).
The donation was celebrated by (left to right): Gerard Muench, Director of Pre-Hospital Services at Trinitas; Nadine Brechner, Vice President/Trinitas Health Foundation, Chief Development Officer; Gary S. Horan, FACHE, Trinitas President & CEO; Nancy Sadlon, Public Affairs Manager, Phillips 66 Bayway Refinery, and Mary Phillips, Community Relations Coordinator for the Refinery.

EVENING AT THE RACES

On Saturday, February 17, 2018, more than 180 guests gathered at the Meadowlands Racetrack in East Rutherford to place their bets with Trinitas! Thanks to their support and the support of our amazing sponsors, we raised more than$72,000—the most money this event has garnered in more than seven years!
A special thank you goes out to everyone who attended and/or supported the event. You helped us make our first fundraising event of 2018 a huge success. To those in the know, Trinitas is always a sure bet! Pictured: Michael Klein, Arlene Horan, Jill Sawers (Foundation Board Chair), Gary Horan (President & CEO of Trinitas Regional Medical Center).

SEEING IS BELIVING

Team Martucci is gearing up to participate in the Saturday, April 14th VisionWalk in New York’s Central Park. The event supports research for the treatment and prevention of retinal degenerative diseases. Among the many NJ supporters of the team is the Hilton Garden Inn in Springfield. For more information visit FightingBlindness.org.

IF THESE WALLS COULD TALK…

In recognition of Convergint Technologies 16th Annual Social Responsibility Day, 25 employees volunteered for a day of work at Trinitas Regional Medical Center’s New Point Campus in Elizabeth, NJ. The volunteers took part in revitalizing several rooms of the Behavioral Health Department with a fresh coat of paint. The brighter colors will help soothe not only patients but staff as well. Small changes such as these allow patients to feel emotionally safe and improve their overall mental health and wellness. Convergint Technologies was founded on a set of core values and beliefs, which is reflected by Convergint’s commitment to its customers, colleagues, families and, now, Trinitas.

KIDDIE ACADEMY SPONSORS  WESTFIELD 5K       

Kiddie Academy of Springfield owners Aanal & Jigar Shukla and Mihir & Nikita Desai pose with their children (l. to r.) Arya, Rhea and Rishi during Westfield’s Pizza Extravaganza and 5K run on July 26. Kiddie Academy was a proud sponsor of the annual event. The academy focuses on educating children and parents on the essentials of a healthier, more productive life—with a huge dose of fun—distinguishing it from traditional childcare options.  

THE GRADUATES

65 students received their nursing diplomas at the Trinitas School of Nursing (TSON) Convocation Ceremony held at St. Michael’s Church in Cranford. Surrounded by family, friends, and staff that provided guidance along the way, 11 men and 54 women proudly accepted their pins and began a new chapter in their lives. It was the school’s 158th convocation ceremony.

MESINA REALTY RIBBON CUTTING

Westfield Mayor Andy Skibitsky presides over the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new offices of Mesina Realty Group at 52 Elm Street. Mesina Rutstein, a Westfield resident and Broker/Owner of Mesina Realty Group, welcomed fellow business owners and community leaders to the event. “We couldn’t be more excited to serve such a special community,” Rustein said. “At Mesina Realty Group, we are passionate about delivering exceptional client experiences. We have experts in every field to skillfully guide you from the beginning to the end of your real estate journey.”  

HELPING TO END HUNGER 

Over 500 sandwiches were made and distributed by members of the Elizabeth Rotary Club as part of a Sandwich Drive presented by Assemblywoman Annette Quijano in partnership with the Elizabeth Coalition to House the Homeless and St. Joseph’s Social Service Center.  The event took place at the Coalition’s location on Division Street in Elizabeth.

TRINITAS EARNS CEO CANCER GOLD STANDARD RE-ACCREDITATION

Trinitas Regional Medical Center has earned CEO Cancer Gold Standard™  re-accreditation for maintaining a strong commitment to the health of its employees and satisfying the latest, comprehensive requirements of the Gold Standard. To earn Gold Standard accreditation, an employer must take concrete actions to reduce the risk and burden of cancer: prohibit tobacco use and support tobacco cessation efforts; promote physical activity, healthy nutrition and weight management; provide health insurance options that include detecting cancer at its earliest stages, access to quality care and participation in cancer clinical trials; promote employee awareness of these initiatives, and support the needs of cancer survivors in the workplace. National Walking Day is just one of the many ways Trinitas continues to promote healthy living and reduce risks related to cancer.

ON THE EDGE IN WESTFIELD 

EDGE magazine staff members manned an EDGE/Trinitas display booth during the recent Westfield 5K Pizza Run sponsored by Downtown Westfield Corporation. Magazines and first aid kits were handed out by (left to right): Rob Rubilla, Senior Media Marketing Specialist; Doug Harris, Publisher; Jeff Shanes, Associate Publisher; Jama Bowman, Design Director, and Christine Layng, Media Marketing Specialist. Trinitas has been a top sponsor of the run since 2009

HEALTHY CORNER 

Trinitas Administrative Director of Diagnostic Services Ann Marie Scanlon administers a blood-pressure test during day of celebration and education for the children and families of the Elizabeth to publicize the NJ Healthy Corner Stores Initiative. The American Heart Association, Shaping Elizabeth, Bayway Family Success Center and Snap-Ed were among the event hosts. The event was chaired by Nancy DiLiegro, Ph.D., FACHE, Vice President of Clinical Operations and Physician Services/Chief Clinical Officer at Trinitas. The NJ Healthy Corner Store Initiative supports public health and economic development by linking community partners with corner storeowners to help stock, promote and sell healthy, affordable foods in underserved communities. As part of the initiative, Emily’s Supermarket added new healthy food choices to its store.  

GRAND OPENING IN SPRINGFIELD

After 68 years of doing business in Union, The Decorating Store at Terminal Mill Ends recently held a Grand Opening at its brand-new two floor decorating/design studio, now located in Springfield. Owner Ernie Spinelli (center) handled ribbon-cutting duties to mark the occasion; Township Committeewoman Geri Ann Bujnowski (to his left) joined friends, family and the store’s decorating team during the event. 

SURVIVORS DAY WARMS  HEARTS AND INSPIRES

Survivors Day, internationally known as a celebration of life, was held throughout the US, Canada, and other participating countries as a show of strength that life after a cancer diagnosis can be meaningful and productive. Trinitas Comprehensive Cancer Center hosted a powerful and emotional Survivors Day where nearly 50 survivors, their family members and friends attended the event at which they viewed a short multimedia presentation on what it means to persevere despite all odds. The spirit of Survivors Day was perfectly captured by Mary Jo Daniel of Roselle Park (pictured with Dr. Barry Levinson) who gave a poignant talk about what it means to be a survivor. She concluded with some advice for other caregivers in the room: “We survivors want you to be with us for a long time. Please take care of yourself by reducing your own risk of cancer. Stop smoking, eat healthy, take a walk with us. And love. Just love.” 

THIS IS HOW THEY ROLL

Vine Ripe Markets in Westfield has been rolling out the finest fresh mozzarella every day since opening their doors in December 2015. Earlier this year, VRM launched its long-awaited educational series with their weekly fresh mozzarella class. Held every Monday evening, VRM’s mozzarella experts craft a 90-minute session to teach foodies, families and friends the fine art of making this Italian culinary staple. The class is available for purchase via Groupon for $49. With purchase, guests receive a Vine Ripe Markets Bag, including a ball fresh mozzarella, a loaf of store-baked Italian bread, and a bottle of imported extra virgin olive oil. Complimentary wine, cheese and charcuterie are also served during the class.

Submit your EDGE People event at www.edgemagonline.com

STOP THE CLOCK!

The first baby born in 2018 at Trinitas Regional Medical Center arrived at 11:17 am on January 2nd. Proud parents Rose Demosthene and Willick Joseph of Rahway pose with baby Isaac Joseph who measured 19.5 inches and weighed in at 6 pounds, 13 ounces. The nursing staff kept a long-standing tradition by gifting a complete layette to the New Year’s baby. Pictured are (left to right): Gabriella Moncayo, RN, Val Sivadasan, RN, Sabina Klos, RN and Mayra Via, RN.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

The Academy of Our Lady of Peace, New Providence has been awarded Blue Ribbon School status by the U.S. Department of Education based on its overall academic excellence.

The Blue Ribbon School award affirms the hard work of students, educators, families, and communities in creating a safe and welcoming school where students master challenging content. This prestigious award is given to a select number of private or public schools that exceed the criteria and represents exemplary teaching and learning. Only 229 public schools and 50 private schools out of the 133,000 public and 36,000 private schools in the USA had this honor bestowed on them. Pictured from left to right are Mr. Joel A. Castillo, Principal of the Academy of Our Lady of Peace, Mrs. Mary Rose Raleigh, Technology Teacher and Coordinator, and Father William A. Mahon, Pastor of Our Lady of Peace Church.

TRINITAS MINTS 71 NEW NURSES

Members of the Trinitas School of Nursing Class of January 2018 recite the Nightingale Pledge at the conclusion of convocation exercises held at St. Michael’s Church, Cranford. The 71 graduates are now are eligible to sit for the registered nurse licensing exam. Congratulations to the Trinitas School of Nursing’s 159th graduating class!

MLB MVP’S

MLB Residential Lending, LLC and Springfield Township officials held a rebranding ribbon-cutting ceremony last November. Officials conducting the ceremony were Springfield Township Mayor Diane Stampoulos and Springfield Township Deputy Mayor Maria Vasallo. MLB Residential Lending executive board includes Samuel Lamparello, Francis Lamparello, Justin M. Demola, Richard Doran, Marty Bronfman, and Daniel Gorczyca. MLB Residential Lending, LLC. is a community mortgage banker, founded under the belief that homeownership is the most viable means to secure a family’s financial future. The corporate office is located at 51 Commerce Street in Springfield. 

GALLOPING TO THE RESCUE

Galloping Hill Inn and Galloping Hill Caterers in Union held a special event for the benefit of victims of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma. George Thomas, entrepreneur, philanthropist and owner of Galloping Hill, hosted the fundraiser. George (left) emigrated to the United States from Greece in 1951. He has been a leader in the food business and a generous supporter of local and national charities ever since.

LASSO-CUTTING ON 22 WEST

LongHorn Steakhouse recently celebrated the opening of its new Springfield location at 272 route 22 West. Joining managing partner Anthony Levy and his staff for this special “Lasso Cutting” was Springfield Mayor Diane Stampoulos, along with members of the Springfield Patriot Chamber of Commerce. The 5,869 sq. ft. restaurant, which seats over 200 guests, has created more than 90 new jobs for the community. Its design celebrates the natural beauty of the American West, with a wood-and-stone interior featuring contemporary artwork and sculpture. As part of its pre-opening training period, the restaurant hosted Friends & Family events with proceeds benefiting a local nonprofit. LongHorn Steakhouse (LongHornSteakhouse.com) prides itself on fresh, never frozen, expertly grilled and boldly seasoned steaks, prepared by a certified LongHorn Grill Master.

Joanna Gorczyca, MSW, MPA, LNHA Administrator/Director of Senior Services

FIVE STARS FOR BROTHER BONAVENTURE

While “shopping” for a nursing home for a loved one, consumers are likely to be impressed by Brother Bonaventure’s five-star rating on the Nursing Home Compare page on the Medicare website. Compared to other nursing homes, “Brother B” scored higher in health inspections, staffing and most importantly, quality of resident care. Joanna Gorczyca, MSW, MPA, LNHA Administrator/Director of Senior Services, who works tirelessly to maintain order and quality of care, says, “It’s something we’re very proud of and we’re going to work hard to keep it.”

Max Loeffler, founder and creator of Bumbles Dolls, right

BUMBLE DOLLS FOR ALL

Max Loeffler, founder, and creator of Bumbles Dolls, recently donated 100 dolls to the children inpatients at Trinitas. The following week, his sister Natasha Loeffler, brought 100 more to the Cancer Center and the Connie Dwyer Breast Center for patients. Loeffler, whose mother Vanessa Loeffler, the wife of Dr. Abu Alam, is the founder of the Teddy Bear Foundation for Achondroplasia. Loeffler’s daughter Theodora, was born with achondroplasia, a hereditary, congenital form of skeletal dysplasia commonly known as dwarfism. As Max watched medical professionals take care of his sister and began volunteering at a local hospital, he was inspired to help make a difference in a bigger way. And soon, Bumble Dolls were born and have made their way around the country. Now, we’re lucky to have them at Trinitas.

Geraldine Cruz, Palliative Care Director

NURSE OF THE YEAR

Congratulations to Geraldine Cruz, Palliative Care Director, who won Nurse of the Year in the category of Adult Health recently at the NJ March of Dimes Nurse of the Year Awards.

Nancy DiLiegro, PhD, FACHE Vice President of Clinical Operations and Physician Services, Chief Clinical Officer

SENIOR CAREERIST AWARD-WINNER

Congratulations to Nancy DiLiegro, PhD, FACHE Vice President of Clinical Operations and Physician Services, Chief Clinical Officer, the recipient of the 2020 Senior Careerist Award. She was honored by The New Jersey American College of Healthcare Executives Regent Advisory Council Awards Committee at the Annual Regent’s Breakfast and Awards Program on January 31, 2020, at the Hyatt Regency Princeton.

Trinitas EMS, Dr. Raffee Matossian, EMS Medical Director

MOBILE HEALTHCARE PROGRAM OF THE YEAR

Trinitas EMS was awarded the 2019 “Mobile Healthcare Program of the Year” award at the 20th Annual EMS Awards Program recently during the National Conference on EMS in Atlantic City. Dr. Raffee Matossian, EMS Medical Director, accepted the award from Deputy Commissioner of Health Christopher Neuwirth.

Minette’s Angels, the Connie Dwyer Breast Center

ANGELS AMONG US

Minette’s Angels, a non-profit foundation dedicated to funding efforts to provide programs and services to breast cancer patients, came to the Connie Dwyer Breast Center at Trinitas to make another generous donation to support our efforts.

Elizabeth Police Department PBA, Local 4

PINK LIVES MATTER

Our friends at the Elizabeth Police Department PBA Local 4 came up with a creative way to support Trinitas. For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, they made fancy patches with a pink border and sold 400 of them to the public for $5 each. During the two-day, sold-out sale, they collected $2,000 and donated it for breast cancer patients at Trinitas. Thank you to our local heroes in blue for incorporating some pink!

TRINITAS NAMES NEW ER AFTER CEO 

To honor his five decades of healthcare leadership in both New York and New Jersey, Trinitas Regional Medical Center named its new $18.7 million Emergency Department after Gary S. Horan, FACHE, Trinitas President and CEO. The expansion will deliver emergency care more quickly, and with higher quality, raising the number of treatment beds from 27 to 45, and providing separate treatment areas where the most appropriate care can be given to seniors, families, and behavioral health patients. For more on this difference-maker see “Partners In Time” on page 45.    

SHARING IS CARING!

In partnership with HRSA and Workplace Partnership for Life, The NJ Sharing Network recognized Trinitas Regional Medical Center for its efforts to promote awareness about the life-saving benefits of organ and tissue donation. More than 1,000 hospitals came together across the country to participate in the 2017 Hospital Campaign. In total, this campaign added 26,975 donor registrations over a seven-month period.  Trinitas was recognized with the Sharing Network’s Platinum Award for its vigorous marketing and education focused on the importance of organ and tissue donation. 

PAINT THE TOWN PINK!

With a goal of spreading breast health awareness during October and all year round, Trinitas partnered with the City of Elizabeth and Elizabeth Department of Health and Human Services to “Paint the Town Pink!” With pink ribbons displayed throughout the city’s buildings and storefronts, the initiative hosted two events: one at Bloomingdale’s at Short Hills Mall and another at Proceed Inc. Special thanks to all partners for making this event possible: Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders, Union County Office of Women, Susan G. Komen- North Jersey, Greater Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce, and the Elizabeth Avenue Partnership.  

GARDEN OF HEALTH 

Gary S. Horan (President & CEO, Trinitas RMC) and Nancy DiLiegro (VP, Clinical Operations and Physician Services/Chief Clinical Officer, Trinitas RMC) recently took a stroll through the new community garden located at Trinitas’ New Point Campus in Elizabeth. The Community Garden was made possible by Groundwork Elizabeth, The Fruit Tree Planting Foundation, and the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders. The garden will be tended by the Child Adolescent Program within Trinitas’s Behavioral Health Department, and serve as a long-term therapeutic tool for these patients. 

THE PINK ROOM 

Maria Sparacio, owner of The Pink Room in Union, NJ has partnered with Trinitas Regional Medical Center to provide shapewear garments for new moms. Maternity and post-partum body girdles will be offered at a discounted rate for the next year only at Trinitas! The Pink Room was founded in May of 2008 and has great reviews and results from clients all throughout New Jersey. 

SHARING A PINK EVENING

Trinitas collaborated with Bloomingdale’s at Short Hills Mall to host an event focused on breast health awareness. From left to right: Dr. Clarissa Henson, Radiation Oncologist; Dr. Heidi Fish, Pathologist; Dr. Dipti Pandya, Radiologist; Dr. Michelle Cholankeril, Medical Oncologist; Dr. Adriana Suarez-Ligon, Breast Surgeon; provided key information on preventative care, screening, and treatment. If you missed this event and would like more information on Trinitas Comprehensive Cancer Center and its team of specialists call (908) 994-8000.

Submit your EDGE People event at www.edgemagonline.com

Connie Dwyer of the Connie Dwyer Breast Center Foundation (far left), was also in attendance. From left to right Connie is accompanied by Nancy DiLiegro (VP, Clinical Operations and Physician Services), Marlie Messina (Public Relations Manager, Bloomingdale’s Short Hills & Bridgewater), Nadine Brechner (Chief Development Officer and VP of the Trinitas Health Foundation), Roselena Twyne (Community Initiatives/Clinical Support Services Specialist), and Janet Lesko (Executive Director, Connie Dwyer Breast Cancer Foundation).