The Inside Press

Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

COVID-19

A Chorus of Here Comes the Sun Greets Discharged Patients Recovered from COVID-19 at Northern Westchester Hospital

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With little good news these days, Northern Westchester Hospital Nurse Manager Carley Dowd came up with a way to celebrate every victory against COVID-19.

Now, whenever a COVID patient is discharged, speakers play  the chorus of The Beatles’ Here Comes The Sun throughout the hospital

This YouTube video shows hospital staff lining the hallway and applauding  as Westchester resident Rita Rooney, age 88, is being discharged after a 14-day hospitalization for COVID-19.

“During these dark days, it lifts our spirits to celebrate when a COVID patient is well enough to go home,” says  Dowd.  “This is a tough time for health care workers on  the front lines of the pandemic, so every victory is sweet.”

Since NWH started “Code Sun”  this week, the response has been so positive that other hospitals in the Northwell System have instituted the program.

News courtesy of Northern Westchester Hospital.

About Northern Westchester Hospital

Northern Westchester Hospital (NWH), a member of Northwell Health, provides quality, patient-centered care that is close to home through a unique combination of medical expertise, leading-edge technology, and a commitment to humanity. Over 650 highly-skilled physicians, state-of-the-art technology and professional staff of caregivers are all in place to ensure that you and your family receive treatment in a caring, respectful and nurturing environment. NWH has established extensive internal quality measurements that surpass the standards defined by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Hospital Quality Alliance (HQA) National Hospital Quality Measures. Our high-quality standards help to ensure that the treatment you receive at NWH is among the best in the nation. For more information, please visit www.nwhc.net and connect with us on Facebook.

About Northwell Health
Northwell Health is New York State’s largest health care provider and private employer, with 23 hospitals, about 750 outpatient facilities and more than 13,600 affiliated physicians. We care for over two million people annually in the New York metro area and beyond, thanks to philanthropic support from our communities. Our 70,000 employees – 16,000-plus nurses and 4,000 employed doctors, including members of Northwell Health Physician Partners – are working to change health care for the better. We’re making breakthroughs in medicine at the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research. We’re training the next generation of medical professionals at the visionary Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell and the Hofstra Northwell School of Graduate Nursing and Physician Assistant Studies. For information on our more than 100 medical specialties, visit Northwell.edu and follow us @NorthwellHealth on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Chalk Art Brings Joy to PopPop and to Many

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A Pleasantville Grandfather with Parkinson’s Disease found reasons to smile–thanks to #Chalk4Joy.

By Maddie Stone

PHOTOS by/courtesy of Kim Wildey

April 5, 2020, Pleasantville, NY– Bill Casey watches from the deck as his three grandchildren, Katie, 13, Abigail, 10, and Michael, 7, turn his patio into a canvas of uplifting messages. Currently in his 70s, Bill suffers from Parkinson’s Disease, making it exceedingly difficult for him to move. Heartbreakingly, Bill cannot be near his grandkids right now.

“It’s hard to be away from the ones we love,” remarked Kim Wildey, daughter of Bill and mother of the three grandkids. “My father always says that his grandchildren keep him young and we knew he was missing all of us and our visits.”

The kids decided to rally their grandfather’s spirits by decorating his patio with sidewalk chalk as he smiled from six feet away.

“The chalk drawing meant a lot to both us and our PopPop,” Katie reflected. “It made us feel happy and we loved seeing him smile. We are trying to keep him safe from COVID-19 so this was a nice way to surprise him.”

It seems people are craving togetherness, as we’re encouraged to be apart, and possess a desire to bring beauty and inspiration into what is an unsettling time. One way of achieving this is through outdoor chalk art creations.

Social media sites exemplify this trend as people post pictures of their driveway and sidewalk creations. The phrases “Chalk the Walk” and “Chalk4Joy” have sprung up on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and across social media. This viral sensation has exploded and found its way to Westchester, as locals have been “chalking their walks” with colorful murals and inspirational quotes to try and make the world a slightly better place.

By the way, my name is Maddie Stone, and I’m in 7th grade. I’m a kid. Shocking, right? I may be only 13, but I know we are going through a pretty rough time right now, so taking a moment to spread a little bit of joy using bright colors and intricate designs is exactly what we need.

I loved seeing the creations other kids made and the imaginative ideas they developed. It was nice, with all the stress and worry, to see beautiful masterpieces instead of dispiriting facts and figures.

Even more fun than seeing the drawings was making a drawing. My family and I worked very hard on it, using a variety of colors and patterns. We made a heart, a peace sign, and a drawing of Earth with people holding hands. We also included several phrases such as #togetherapart, don’t stop us now, and, in a flourish of patriotism, spelled out the letters U.S.A. We were definitely pleased with our final product, and were filled with a sense of pride and accomplishment.

There were four main reasons why making a chalk creation was fun. First, it was nice to venture outdoors and enjoy some fresh air. Going outside in a period where it is so easy to stay indoors and sit on the couch is even more important. Second, it felt good to know other people would see my drawing and maybe what I was doing would brighten someone’s day. Third, I got to spend time with my family. I find even though we are stuck in our house together all day, we rarely get together, all four of us, and do something fun. Finally, fourth, it provided a sense of accomplishment during a mostly powerless time.

We are pretty helpless in times like these, when everything relies on medical professionals and we’re forced to wait for the outcome. Right now, the only viable option is to try and do something that may impact someone else in a positive way, even if just slightly.

This was a great experience. We created something pretty, enjoyed time as a family, and completed our afternoon knowing we had developed something inspiring that might affect someone, somewhere, somehow. Many cars passed by that day. All I can do is hope someone looked out the window.

New Castle Volunteer Match: Reaching Out to Those Impacted by COVID-19

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Volunteers such as Town Board Member Jason Lichtenthal are Helping Community Members Impacted by COVID-19

With the onset of the COVID-19 outbreak, families all across the country have been quarantined in their houses, unable to leave. As a result, they are not able to receive some of the basic supplies previously available to them, including toilet paper, soap or disinfectant spray. However, the town of New Castle has recognized the urgent need for many of the community members, and spearheaded “The New Castle Volunteer Match” on Facebook to alleviate many of the pressures at home and personal challenges caused by the coronavirus.

Since the Town Board created the  program on March 22nd, Town-Board member, Jason Lichtenthal has been an active participant, delivering supplies to residents all over New Castle. “We were hearing so many people between Facebook, text messages and emails to the town asking how they can help,” Lichtenthal stated. The program utilizes Facebook as the medium, in which “some people post what they need and some people post what they can offer.”

Lichtenthal described how members of the community have embraced the program, willingly offering a hand to those in need. “The ultimate goal of the program is to recognize that in this time of crisis there are needs that exist beyond the scope of town programs and services. We wanted to make sure that the needs of our community were fulfilled.” When asked on how people get matched together, Lichtenthal stated that “It’s mostly to match people with whether they have special skills, time or resources to help anyone in the community.”

It is also important to recognize the necessity of staying safe during the deliveries. This includes wearing gloves and keeping a safe distance between others. Lichtenthal explains that when he makes deliveries he has “reusable gloves, Lysol, disinfecting wipes “and so forth. However, as Lichtenthal describes, “it is not an exact science by any means.”

With many other programs stretched thin during this time period, including the Recreation and Parks Department as well as social workers, Lichtenthal acknowledges that “there are only so many things that they can do, so this is something we can do to help supplement this.”

The generosity of the community has inspired Lichtenthal to help support others during this stressful period. “Anything that we can do to help support our community, to make sure we can continue to help our businesses thrive and have our people is key.

To access the New Castle Volunteer Match page on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/235308037530428/?ref=share

 

A Heartwarming Nursing Commitment in Response to COVID-19 at Northern Westchester Hospital

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Speaking on behalf of the leadership team at Northern Westchester Hospital, Cathy Manley-Cullen, MS, RN, NEA-BC, chief nursing officer at NWH, offered a heartwarming account of the commitment and camaraderie she is witnessing amongst the hospital’s nursing staff-over 500 full and part time nurses serve some dozen or more departments and units-as they navigate a public health emergency due to COVID-19.

“They couldn’t be more willing to jump in and do whatever they can,” said Manley-Cullen.

“They are incredibly inspiring and positive the way they are supporting each other too, rotating on different units that they maybe didn’t work on previously–just to give everyone a little respite,” she said. “They are doing all of this while everyone is trying to just lead their lives… like everyone else, the children are home; we have to do homeschooling and a host of other things.”

Derek Anderson, executive director, Northern Westchester Hospital relayed that as of April 1, 2020, the hospital is actively treating approximately 55 patients who have tested positive for COVID-19, with approximately 20 more being ruled out. Many more have been treated in our Emergency Department, but did not require hospitalization, and are recovering from the virus at home.

Manley-Cullen described the atmosphere as being one of a spirit of cooperation with nurses generously helping their fellow nurses where they are needed most. “The nurses are working on different units that they don’t typically work on all the time. “Maybe a nurse on the 7th floor telemetry unit ( a critical care area) or from the OR (operating room) or ambulatory surgery unit (which are all seeing fewer patients right now)  are helping out more on floors where nurses are seeing more patients with COVID-19.

This is also not the first and will likely not be the last time nurses find themselves on the frontlines of a public health emergency. “There’s been quite a few public health crises over the years, and nursing and health care in general is no stranger to crises, whether it’s hurricanes or infectious diseases; we plan for this, always, so we can be prepared as possible.”

Three new phone lines are being made available too. The first, a line for employees “who maybe don’t feel well themselves,” said Manley-Cullen. A second line is for the community at large-for anyone seeking information about COVID-19.  Finally, the hospital is “in the process of setting up a ‘Wellness’ line for employees who wish to talk through issues.”

 “The nurses are also busy connecting with family members because right now visitors are not allowed in the hospital. We are also making sure we call and speak to family, and giving not only updates about their loved ones, but also just being available for them and their well-being and anything they may be struggling with.”

“We are not seeing staff overwhelmed,” emphasized Manley-Cullen. “What we are seeing is an incredibly positive attitude. A lot of that has to do with the great resources we have available here at NWH which is part of Northwell, a much bigger healthcare system. At this juncture, she said, supplies are plentiful, and nurses and all healthcare staff have the personal protective equipment they need. “It’s a big burden if you’re worrying about your equipment or if you’re safe. That’s just not the case here.”

NWH Food Service employees expressing gratitude too.

Every recovery is a reason for optimism. One patient offered this testimonial: “I was just discharged last night from Northern Westchester Hospital after four nights. I am an unlikely survivor of COVID-19 being 73 1/2 with asthma and just having recently had a stroke. I was overwhelmed by the competence and caring of your staff who did all they could to attend to me and make me comfortable. I felt like I was in the presence of greatness. Thanks, E.P.”

In the meantime, the hospital remains very much open to serving patients no matter what their medical concern, too.  “We want people to understand that if they need to come to the hospital, or if they’re sick, they should,” said Manley-Cullen. “We don’t want people to be fearful of coming to the hospital or staying home if they have a legitimate medical concern or alarming sign, such as chest pain, that they need to have addressed.  We are still caring for people whatever their needs may be.”

Manley-Cullen also acknowledged the “incredible support from the community to support the nursing staff.” People are donating food. Restaurants are delivering food. People are sending messages and encouraging video clips. Nurses are staying in touch with each other on social media. School children have been drawing pictures for our team. We have a wall filled with pictures the school kids have drawn to say thank you. Everyone just wants to help in any way they can.”

The community’s warm outpouring has helped the staff feel really supported. “People are wearing masks so it’s hard to get facial expressions, but they are smiling. You can tell by their eyes!”

Virtual Screening Room for the Jacob Burns Film Center: Saint Frances + Corpus Christi Open

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JBFC has been looking for new ways to bring cinema to you. Its staff is working with film distributors to keep new releases coming. In the JBFC Virtual Screening Room you’ll find films curated by JBFC programmers that you can watch at home. Like many cinematic engagements, films will be available for screening purchases for one week to start; if demand is sufficient, the title will be “held over” for additional weeks.

“We’re grateful that we’re able to continue programming exciting new releases for you while we look forward to coming together again.”

 

Saint Frances    

 

A Note From Programming Coordinator Adrienne Frank About the Film

“I had no idea when I sat down to watch Saint Frances last week how much of a healing balm it would be for me in this moment; it’s a film that overflows with humanity and hope in its most honest, messy, and rewarding forms.

Saint Frances is so many things–feminist comedy, coming-of-age story, indie family drama–but I think I’m most impressed with what it’s not: it’s not an “abortion movie,” or an “LGBTQ movie,” or a “postpartum depression movie.” Instead, it’s a movie that incorporates all of these topics but allows them to exist as they exist in reality–as facets of much more complex characters, lives, and experiences. To see these topics (all very near and dear to my heart) presented in a film so empathetically and unabashedly was a breath of fresh air.

On top of having a stellar cast and snappy dialogue, Saint Frances also made me laugh, made me cry a little, and left me feeling better than it found me, and right now, that’s all I could ask for out of a movie. I hope you enjoy!”

Saint Frances Synopsis 

Flailing thirty-four-year-old Bridget (Kelly O’Sullivan) finally catches a break when she meets a nice guy and lands a much-needed job nannying six-year-old Frances (played by a scene-stealing Ramona Edith-Williams). But when an unwanted pregnancy, clashes with the obstinate Frances, and a growing tension between her charge’s moms complicate her new life, Bridget must contend with the inevitable joys and chaos of becoming a part of someone else’s family.

Learn More

Corpus Christi

A Note From JBFC Programmer Saidah Russell and JBFC Special Events Programmer Nicole Klein About the Film

“In recent years, we boldly entered the Era of the Hot Priest (Fleabag, First Reformed, The Young Pope). However, we haven’t seen any quite like Corpus Christi’s Daniel, played with charm and ferocity by captivating newcomer Bartosz Bielenia. We went into our screening at TIFF this past September with little idea of what to expect, and were completely blown away. Filmmaker Jan Komasa, in his third feature, combines elements of crime drama, morality tale, and character study to explore ideas around faith and redemption in contemporary Poland. It’s an extremely ambitious vision, one that consistently surprises and thrills. It quickly became one of our favorite films from the festival and we were shocked and elated to see it receive an Academy Award nomination this year for Best International Feature. The acclaim is totally deserved and, despite the lack of a traditional theatrical release, we’re still really excited that Film Movement’s given us the opportunity to share it with all of you.”

Corpus Christi Synopsis

Released from prison, 20-year-old Daniel is sent to a remote village to work as a manual laborer. But he convinces the locals that he is a priest and fills in for their elderly vicar, inspiring some and raising suspicion among others. Led by an impressive Bartosz Bielenia, this thoughtful, engaging, Oscar-nominated Polish film examines questions of faith and redemption, and is not to be missed.

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Bacurau  

Bacurau Synopsis 

A few years from now… Bacurau, a small village in the Brazilian sertão, mourns the loss of its matriarch, Carmelita, who lived to be 94. Days later, its inhabitants (among them Sônia Braga) notice that their village has literally vanished from online maps and a UFO-shaped drone is seen flying overhead. There are forces that want to expel them from their homes, and soon, in a genre-bending twist, a band of armed mercenaries led by Udo Kier arrive in town, picking off the inhabitants one by one. A fierce confrontation takes place when the townspeople turn the tables on the villainous outsiders, banding together by any means necessary to protect and maintain their remote community. The mercenaries just may have met their match in the fed-up, resourceful denizens of little Bacurau.

Join the JBFC for our very first socially-distanced Q&A! On Thursday, April 2 at 7:00, Senior Programmer Andrew Jupin will lead an informal discussion via Zoom. Andrew will be sharing his thoughts about the film Bacurau. The audience–that’s you!–will have the opportunity to participate and ask questions via the chat feature.

This is as new to us as it is for you! We look forward to meeting you in this virtual space and learning together as we find ways to experience films as a community.

Register now for the Q&A!

Learn More

We continue to find ways to connect you with film and the Burns through this period of stay-at-home distancing. We hope that you’ve seen our last couple of e-bulletins with fun and entertaining links. For a roundup of all we’ve suggested and put together for you already, visit JBFC at Home on our website. 

Check out our Virtual Screening Room FAQ if you have any questions about streaming films from home.