August 2, 2021
The sewerage project that was initially scheduled to take place in March is due to begin this week. As required by the Town of Niskayuna, a grinder pump will be installed to break down solid debris that is sometimes flushed down the toilets causing clogs in the sewer system. Most of the work, including excavation and installation of the grinder pump will be done outside, adjacent to the front entrance. Indoor work, primarily wiring, will follow. Throughout most of the project, the existing sewer line will remain operational. During the final phase (actual day to be determined) the main sewer line will be shut down for approximately four hours during which time the pump station and the sewer line will be connected. The final phase shut-down will take place after breakfast on that day and all residents will be notified in person that water to sinks and toilets throughout the facility will be turned off. Signs will be posted in all the bathrooms. Bottled water and hand sanitizers will be distributed. Staff will be present on all of the units during the shutdown to provide assistance and offer reassurance to residents. Residents will be encouraged to use their bathrooms, as needed. All bathrooms will be disinfected and deodorized once the water supply is turned back on. Detailed plans for resident safety and comfort have been approved by the NYS Dept. of Health and all residents are currently being informed of the project. Pamela Jordan, Facilities Director and Caroline Thompson, Executive Director are providing oversight of this project and are available to answer questions and address concerns.
With regard to visitation, we are pleased to report that everyone – visitors, residents and staff – are enjoying seeing so many familiar faces and hearing the sounds of laughter throughout the building. For the most part, everyone is doing their best to be compliant with mask wearing which is still required upon entering the facility and in common areas including the main lobby, hallways and elevators. Residents and their visitors who are fully vaccinated may remove their masks inside their apartments and in designated visitation areas. Although our Main Dining Room is not yet open to guests, fully vaccinated family members and friends are welcome to pack a picnic lunch or carry-out meals from local eateries and enjoy them here at Ingersoll Place. Outdoor seating areas in the East and West Wing gardens and rear patio behind the Library are available. For indoor dining, you can reserve the Library for up to 6 people. For information or to reserve a visitation/dining area, please contact Bridget O’Connor, Lead Concierge/Reception Desk at 518-370-4419.
If you haven’t yet seen the August Activities Calendar, it’s available at https://www.ingersollplace.org/news-and-activities.aspx. There’s something for almost everyone including weekly entertainment, off-site excursions, exercise sessions, social gatherings and lots of BINGO! New this August is Carnival Week with a variety of carnival-themes games and special events.
As always, if you have questions or concerns, please contact the following members of the management staff, as needed, at 518-370-4419:
Caroline Thompson, Executive Director/Administrator
Kate Giemza, RN, Resident Care Director
Pam Jordan, Facilities Director
Michelle Rearic, Business Office/HR Manager
Amber Zoller, Assistant Case Manager
Christina Benardo, Activities Director
Ceil Mack, Marketing Director
