GuardianJULY 2016

A publication by the Guardian Association of Pinellas County for the purpose of promoting advocacy & education.

GuardianSPEAKER INFORMATION

Patricia Adams worked as a registered nurse for twenty-one yearsbefore illness forced her to retire. Now she is involved as a peer in manyareas of mental health and substance abuse advocacy, leadership, andeducation. Patricia's presentation on "Disability Rights, Florida.Advocacy. Equality. Dignity" will leave time for discussion,Questions/Answers.

Making the community increasingly trauma-informed is one ofPatricia’s passions. She is also extremely concerned about the role thattrauma plays and its impact on the everyday life of people with mentalhealth and/or substance abuse disorders.

Since 2010 she has been a member of the Substance Abuse andMental Health Planning and Advisory Council of Florida. Patricia isthe President of the Peer Support Coalition of Florida (PSCFL) whichis the statewide peer organization for persons with mental health and/orsubstance abuse disorders. The Peer Support Coalition of Florida mem-bership is also open to family members, caregivers, and professionals.The Coalition provides education, networking, and support for con-sumers of behavioral health services.

In addition, Patricia is a state trainer for the Florida LeadershipAcademy which trains peers, family members, and caregivers to learnand/or strengthen their skills in advocacy, organizational developmentand leadership. She is a NAMI Peer-to-Peer Mentor and is a speaker aspart of NAMI’s Ending the Silence Program.

eNewsletter

TheProfessional

“DISABILITY RIGHTS, FLORIDA.ADVOCACY. EQUALITY. DIGNITY.

SET YOUR SAILS......for "Navigating the Tides of Guardianship", at

the upcoming GAPC 20th Annual Conference on Friday,October 14th at the EpiCenter at St. Petersburg College. Seepages 5-7 for more details and pages 9-10 for Call toPresentation. Register online at:

www.GuardianAssociation.org.

Calendar & Coming

EventsJULY 19, 3:30 P.M.

GAPC BOARD MEETINGPalms of Largo - REGAL PALMS Bldg.

VERANDAH ROOM

JULY 19, 5:30 P.M.

MEMBERSHIP MEETING

“Disability Rights, Florida.Advocacy. Equality. Dignity”

PATRICIA WELTE-ADAMS, R.N.PEER SUPPORT COALITION OF FLORIDA

1 CEU available

Hors d’oeuvres at 5:30 p.m.,

Palms of Largo - CYPRESS PALMS Bldg.400 Lake Avenue NE, Largo

RSVP to Association Website:www.GuardianAssociation.org

JULY 29, 9:00 A.M.

GAPC NETWORKING BREAKFAST

GRAND VILLA OF LARGO

750 STARKEY ROAD, LARGO

RSVP to Association Websitewww.GuardianAssociation.org

OCASSOCIATION COMMUNICATIONS

P.O. Box 1826Pinellas Park, FL 33780

(727) 744-8600Info@GuardianAssocation.org

www.GuardianAssociation.org

Newsletter Editor& Breakfast Facilities Coordinator

Phyllis Johnson596-8919 or pjohns3@tampabay.rr.com

ASSOCIATION COMMUNICATIONSP.O. Box 1826, Pinellas Park, FL 33780

(727) 744-8600Info@GuardianAssociation.org

www.GuardianAssociation.org

https://facebook.com/GuardianAssociationPinellas

Thomas Moore, Florida Market Director,Optum/United Healthcare, Silver Sponsorfor the GAPC 20th Annual Conferencecontributed a brief summary of his companyfor our spotlight column.

"Our mission is to enhance theperformance of the health system andimprove the overall health and well beingof the people and communities we serve.We work with health care professionalsand other key partners like Guardians toexpand access to quality health care sopeople get the care they need at anaffordable price.

We support the physician/patientrelationship and empower people with theinformation, guidance and tools they needto improve the quality of their care.

The UnitedHealthcare Nursing HomeProgram (formerly Evercare) is fortunate to have tremendous caregivers like SharonBruce, Nurse Practitioner, providing supportand improving the lives of our residents.

We congratulate the GuardianAssociation on their 39th year of servingthe guardianship community and areproud to support their cause."

Regular MembershipMeeting

June 21th at CypressPalms, Largo

"Traumatic Grief" was the topic of our June CEUmeeting with speaker Kathleen Quance, M.S.,C.C.L.S., (pictured above with GAPC Board MemberMark Grand). Kathleen is Community CounselingCenter Senior Counselor for Empath Heath, discussinggrief reactions and healthy ways to cope with grief.The meeting was interactive as Kathleen addressedspecific questions and issues from audience membersrelevant to the subject.

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FROM THE DESK OFTHE PRESIDENT

LynnMarie Boltze

THOUGHTS FROM THE PRESIDENT...

We just celebrated July 4th with a day of family, Bar-B-Ques, beach time, some well needed R&R andusually lots of fireworks.. What the holiday is actually about is celebrating our Independence and truly thefreedoms many do not get to experience. We thank the soldiers who protect us on a daily basis and pray forthose families of veterans who served and made the ultimate sacrifice.

Our Mission Statement is to continue the pursuit of education and sharing who we are in thecommunity. Over the last year, the GAPC has been very involved in trade shows and community exposwhere we maintained our booth, laying the groundwork to Partner with like-minded non-profits andbusinesses. If you know of any upcoming Exhibits or Expos in Pinellas County please contact me atLynnMarieGuardian@gmail.com.

Our 20th Annual Conference on Friday, October 14th at SPC EpiCenter is fast approaching and so is thedeadline for EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION to SAVE on FEES!! To become a Sponsor, Vendor, or Attendee, pleasereference pages 5-7 for more information on the Conference or go to our website www.guardianassociation.org.

Two years ago we started the Ken Shoop Conference give-away. Ken was a GAPC BOD member and ourTreasurer when he passed away. We are continuing to honor Ken with this tradition. Any attendee(s) at the Augustand September CEU Meetings will be eligible to win a FREE entrance to the Conference (a value of $105 or more).

The BOD is proud to give a BIG SHOUT OUT and THANK YOU to our two Power Partner Sponsors ~Gold Sponsor Mobile Physician Services (MPS) and Silver Sponsor OPTUM, United Healthcare.PLEASE NOTE -- the Bronze Sponsorship is still open for $1500.00 See further info on page 5.

We have a few openings left for speakers at our Conference. If you have an idea for a speaker or arewilling to present yourself, please give Conference Committee Chairs LynnMarie Boltze or Phyllis Johnson acall or email. You may also reference this eNewsletter on pages 9-10 for further information.

With summer in full swing, many of us are busier than ever, personally I know I am. Whether you’retraveling on vacation, enjoying a staycation or entertaining and making new memories with friends andfamily we wish you a safe summer season. Remember as a Guardian to always have a “fallback” Guardian orHealth Care individual to assist with your Wards in your absence.

GAPC has badges with our NEW logo for just $15, please see page 4 for more details or feel free tocontact me via email.

Elections for the next Board of Directors (BOD) is in October. We are looking for a few good women andmen for the GAPC BOD. If you or someone you know are interested please reach out to any one of the BODmembers or myself. The criteria to be a 2017-2019 BOD Member is that you must have been a Member InGood Standing since October 2015. Stay tuned to the monthly eNewsletters or Email Blasts for moreinformation on the upcoming elections in October.

Warm regards,

LYNNMARIE

CONTACT INFO:

Cell: 813.625.8734 Fax: 727.545.4312LynnMarieGuardian@gmail.com

OPTIMIZING YOUR POTENTIAL FOR SUCCESS

Barry Foster is celebrating his 20th anniversary of The Corporate CoachingCenter, founded in 1996, and is focused solely on the success of his clients.

Barry’s expertise includes entrepreneurial start-ups, seasoned corporateexecutives, or an entire team with the development of the person being foremostfor any organization to succeed. Barry has consistently exceeded expectations andis uniquely qualified to assist any organization with the challenges of leadershipdevelopment and managerial performance.

A decorated Vietnam Veteran, Barry has over 50 years of industry andentrepreneurial experience in his tireless pursuit to provide guidance and mentoring

services to his ever-widening client base.

Come join us July 29th at 9:00 a.m., Grand Villa of Largo, 750 Starkey Road, Largo. This is sure to be agreat presentation as well as a productive networking opportunity, and a terrific breakfast.

Barry Foster

NETWORKING BREAKFAST

You Asked. We Heard. We’re Doing It!

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FOLLOW US ONSOCIAL MEDIA

Guardians and Healthcare professionals can exchange ideas, ask questions, seek solutions,

build a network, and receive helpfulinfo/updates through social messaging.

BECOME A GAPC MEMBER TODAY...and reap the benefits of joining a knowledgeablenetwork of professionals. In addition to newnetworking opportunities you receive the GAPCmonthly eNewsletter. The eNewsletter isexclusive to members only and onlymembers have access to the MemberDirectory. Members obtain a reduced fee forthe Annual Conference, access a forum to stateyour concerns and questions and have theconvenience of online payment via Paypal. Tojoin or to continue your membership go to ourwebsite HERE.

GGAAPPCC IIDDEENNTTIIFFIICCAATTIIOONN BBAADDGGEE OORRDDEERR FFOORRMM

Identification badges with our New Logoare available to members for $15.

Badges will be mailed to your address.For information, contact

LynnMarie Boltze at (813) 625-8734.

Name on badge(Title will read Professional Guardian)

Shipping address

City, State, Zip

Email or phone

WITHNEWLOGO

Responses to our most recent survey indicated adesire for more socials. BOLO for a GuardianHappy Hour at a popular venue coming inAugust. The GAPC will notify you via eBlasts asto when and where. Shout out and Thank Youto BOD member Mark Grande,Eternal Cremation Servicesowner, who will be covering theAppetizers so YOU can enjoy theoccasion at no charge.

GUARDIAN ASSOCIATION OF PINELLAS COUNTY

SPONSOR OPPORTUNITIES

GOLD SPONSORSHIP$2000

Sponsor’s name will appear on all Conference television display screens and all Conference printed materials.Sponsor receives List of Attendees and Contact Information prior to event; Six (6) minute video (provided bySponsor) to be played at Conference Luncheon. Sponsorship includes Registration and Lunch for four (4)Attendees; Exhibitor Table in a prime location; Full page ad in Conference Program; Sponsor companyreceives a “Spotlight” article in the GAPC e-Newsletter as well as further Recognition through theyear in the e-Newsletter; Recognition on GAPC website as a “Power Partner” for one full year. For furthermarketing opportunities, GAPC will provide Social Media Acknowledgement (two times prior to and onetime after Conference); Sponsor is encouraged to provide printed materials to GAPC personnel that can beincluded in the Conference Welcome Bag at Attendees Registration/Check-in.

SILVER SPONSORSHIP$1750

Sponsor’s name will appear on all Conference television display screens and all Conference printed materials.Sponsor receives Four (4) minute video (provided by Sponsor) to be played at Conference Luncheon.Sponsorship includes registration and lunch for two (2) Attendees; Exhibitor Table in a prime location; Halfpage ad in Conference Program; Recognition in the e-Newsletter for nine (9) months; Recognition onGAPC website as a “Power Partner” for a full year. For further marketing opportunities, GAPC willprovide Social Media Acknowledgement (one time prior to and one time after Conference); Sponsor is encouragedto provide printed materials to GAPC personnel that can be included in the Conference Welcome Bag atAttendees Registration/Check-in.

BRONZE SPONSORSHIP$1500

Sponsor’s name will appear on all Conference television display screens and all Conference printed materials.Sponsor receives Two (2) minute video (provided by Sponsor) to be played at Conference Luncheon.Sponsorship includes registration and lunch for two (2) Attendees; Exhibitor Table in a prime location;Quarter page ad in Conference Program; Recognition in the e-Newsletter for six (6) months; Recognition onGAPC website as a “Power Partner” for one full year. For further marketing opportunities, GAPC willprovide Social Media Acknowledgement (one time prior to Conference); Sponsor is encouraged to provide printedmaterials to GAPC personnel that can be included in the Conference Welcome Bag at AttendeesRegistration/Check-in.

SOLD

SOLD

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GUARDIAN ASSOCIATION OF PINELLAS COUNTY

SPONSOR OPPORTUNITIES

BREAKFAST

$500 - limit 2 sponsorshipsSponsor’s name prominently displayed at theConference, Exhibitor Table, Half page ad inthe Conference Program, and Recognition inGAPC e-Newsletter. Includes Conferenceregistration for two (2) persons.

MORNING BREAK

$500 - limit 2 sponsorshipsSponsor’s name prominently displayed at theConference, Exhibitor Table, Half page ad inthe Conference Program, and Recognition inGAPC e-Newsletter. Includes Conferenceregistration for two (2) persons.

SPEAKER LUNCHES

$500 - limit 2 sponsorshipsSponsor’s name prominently displayed at theConference, Exhibitor Table, Half page ad inthe Conference Program, and Recognition inGAPC e-Newsletter. Includes Conferenceregistration for two (2) persons.

LUNCHEON TABLE SPONSOR

$100 - 22 sponsorshipsSponsor’s name prominently displayed on theLuncheon table centerpiece, Recognition inthe Conference program and in the GAPCe-Newsletter. Includes Lunch for one (1)Sponsor. Does not include Conference registration.

AFTERNOON BREAK

$500 - limit 2 sponsorshipsSponsor’s name prominently displayed at theConference, Exhibitor Table, Half page adin the Conference Program, and Recognitionin GAPC e-Newsletter. IncludesConference registration for two (2) persons.

GRAND PRIZE

$500 - limit 2 sponsorshipsSponsor’s name prominently displayed at theConference, Exhibitor Table, Half page adin the Conference Program, and Recognitionin GAPC e-Newsletter. Includes Conferenceregistration for two (2) persons.

EXHIBITOR / FULL TABLE

$325 / $375 after 7/31/16

Exhibitor Full Table, Listing in ConferencePro g r a m a n d Re c o g n i t i o n i n G A P Ce-Newsletter. Includes Breakfast and Lunch fortwo (2) persons. Does not include Conferenceregistration.

EXHIBITOR / HALF TABLE

$175 / $200 after 7/31/16

Shared Vendor Table, Listing in ConferenceProgram and Recognition in the GAPCe-Newsletter. Includes Breakfast and Lunchfor one (1) person. Does not includeConference registration.

The Guardian Association of Pinellas County encourages allmembers and/or vendors to utilize PayPal for all transactions with the GAPC. You do not need to have an account to pay with PayPal.

Extra lunch tickets are $40 each and must be added and paid for via the GAPC website.

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PROGRAM ADVERTISINGAdvertise in the Conference Program (300 printing).

Size/Location in Program Regular Pricing Late Registration (after 7/31/16)

Full Page Back Cover (color) $600 $690Full Page Inside Front Cover (color) $550 $630Full Page Inside Back Cover (color) $500 $575Full Page (7 1/2” x 10”) $400 $4601/2 Page (7 1/2” x 4 3/4”) $200 $2301/4 Page (3 3/4” x 4 3/4”) $150 $175Business Card (2 1/2” x 3 3/4”) $100 $115

It is preferable that the Sponsorship & Exhibitor Registration be submitted onthe GAPC website at www.GuardianAssociation.org/event-2228710. Click onthe Registration button to reach the needed form.

The following information will be needed to complete the registration formavailable online. Some of this information will also be used in the ConferenceProgram. Registration fees may be paid via PayPal (preferred method, PayPalaccount not necessary), Credit Card or please indicate that a check has beenrequested for payment.

Sponsor Registration• Company/Organization Name• Address, City & Zip• Contact Person• Phone Number/Cell Phone• Fax Number• Email Address of contact person &

attending representatives• Description of company’s services• List the name(s) of company representatives

that will be attending the exhibit table• If additional lunches are needed please

provide names of recipients• If your company would like to provide a door

prize ($25 value)• If an advertisement in the Conference

Program is included in Sponsorship, providecontact person for the artwork

Exhibitor Registration• Company/Organization Name• Address, City & Zip• Contact Person• Phone Number/Cell Phone• Fax Number• Email Address of contact person &

attending representatives• Description of company’s services• List the name(s) of company representatives

that will be attending the exhibit table• Name of Company who will be the Exhibitor• Name of 2nd Company if Sharing Table• If additional lunches are needed please

provide names of recipients• If your company would like to provide a door

prize ($25 value)

Sponsor / Exhibitor agrees: To set up exhibit display by 7:30 am on Friday, October 14th and to maintain theexhibit until 3pm. To keep exhibit area neat and dispose of trash appropriately. To remove all materials prior toleaving. To pay all fees for sponsoring prior to 9/15/2016. GAPC is not responsible for any loss, damages or injuryto sponsor or sponsor’s property.

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“NAVIGATING THE TIDES OF GUARDIANSHIP”

20th ANNUAL CONFERENCECALL FOR PRESENTATIONS

GAPC endeavors each year to offer an exceptional educational program to our members andguests. This year is no exception as we prepare for the GAPC’s 20th Annual Conference, takingplace this year at The EpiCenter at St. Petersburg College on Friday, October 14th, 2016.

In an effort to provide a wide array of professional speakers, we ask if you, or anyone youknow, has pertinent information to present at the 2016 Conference. The following pagesummarizes the information needed to complete the form (in Word only) found on our websiteat www.GuardianAssociation.org. Supporting materials required may be sent via e-mail(preferred), regular mail or faxed to one of the addresses or fax number below. This informationis necessary for consideration by the Conference Committee as well as information requiredto obtain Continuing Education Credits for our Attendees.

LynnMarie Boltze~

LynnMarieGuardian@gmail.com9753 66th Street N., Suite #200, Pinellas Park, FL 33782

Mobile: 813.625.8734 Fax: 727.545.4312

Please submit this information no later than July 15th, 2016.

Special Thanks to our Power Partners for Their Support!

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Gold Sponsor Silver Sponsor

The mission of the Guardian Association of Pinellas County (GAPC) is to educate and advocate on behalfof those living in and around Pinellas County, Florida who can no longer voice for themselves for reasons suchas advanced age, mental or physical incapability. GAPC aims to promote the welfare and quality of servicefor such individuals by developing and improving the capabilities of guardians through educational programs,lectures, discussions, and other various methods of instruction.

Guardians provide ethical, professional, dedicated and compassionate care for the voiceless all whileunderstanding that no two individuals or situations are alike. As GAPC grows, we will continue to set thestandard in guardian education and advocacy in the state and the nation.

Speaker & Topic Information

• Title of Presentation (title could to be edited for length)• Presentation Description (50 - 75 words)• Category:

Legal, Medical, Financial, Benefits, or Practice/Management• Population Subject: Basic, Intermediate, or Advanced• Learning Objectives:

List 3 objectives that will be accomplished upon the completion of this presentation• Speaker Introduction Information (no more than three sentences please)• Speaker Contact Information:

Name, Title, Organization, Email Address, Physical Address, City/State, Phone and Fax

Required Supportive Materials

• Bibliography (submitted in Word)• Powerpoint presentation (Audio Visual Equipment will be available)

If changes are made to Powerpoint presentation, the final version must be submitted to GAPC by 9/15/2016.

• Outline of the Presentation (submitted in Word)• Short Resume or Curriculum Vitae (submitted in Word)• Photo (preferably a head shot) in JPG or PDF format

Please submit this information no later than July 15th, 2016.

ANNUAL CONFERENCE

OCTOBER 14th, 2016

CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS

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continued on page 12

FLORIDA MEDICAID LONG TERM

MANAGED CARE UPDATE

SUBMITTED BY LINDA CHAMBERLAIN, ESQ.

With a background in social services prior to becoming a Board Certified Elder LawAttorney and who has achieved Martindale Hubbell’s highest rating as an AVPreeminent Attorney, Linda Chamberlain presently serves as an Adjunct Professor atStetson University College of Law. She is Founder and President of the newly mergedAging Wisely, LLC and Easy Living, Inc. Her Elder Law practice is well versed inMedicaid planning, Medicaid applications, Long Term Care and Disability issues.

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It’s hard to believe it’s been 5 years since the initial implementation of the Statewide Medicaid ManagedCare Long Term Care program (SMMC LTC). For those of you not acquainted with the program, the LTCprogram provides nursing facility and home based services to adults who meet the nursing home level of care.The Agency for Health Care Administration has created a snapshot picture of the LTC services. You can checkit out at http://ahca.myflorida.com/Medicaid/statewide_mc/pdf/LTC/SMMC_LTC_Snapshot.pdf.

In addition to the LTC program, Florida implemented the Statewide Medicaid Managed CareMedical Assistance program (SMMC MA). The snapshot picture of MA services is available athttp://ahca.myflorida.com/Medicaid/statewide_mc/pdf/mma/SMMC_MMA_Snapshot.pdf.

To be eligible for SMMC LTC services the individual must meet the following requirements:• Age 65 and over and eligible for Medicaid.• Age 18 and over and eligible for Medicaid by reason of a disability.• Be determined by CARES unit at the DOEA to be at nursing home level of care and meet one or

more of the established criteria.

Take the time to review the list of services the managed care plans must provide. In my experience if youdon’t ask for it, they don’t provide it. You want to be a great advocate for your client/ward and ensure theyare receiving all services they need. A few surprises the LTC program includes: Home Delivered Meals (Mom’sMeals), Personal Emergency Response Systems, and Home Accessibility Adaptations to name a few. EachSMMC LTC company must assign a case manager to an eligible enrolled client and an assessment and careplan must be completed. You will want to meet with the case manager to ensure your client/ward receivesnecessary services and supplies.

HEADS UP! The Waiting List to be enrolled in the LTC Home and Community Based Services(HCBS) is greater than 43,000 individuals. (http://fcoa.org/waitlistreport_052016.pdf ). If your client/ward requires assisted living services or care in the home they may have to wait many years to be awarded aslot to receive services. You will want to ensure the plan you implement is one the client/ward can pay forprivately from their income and assets until a slot is awarded. A few exceptions to the waiting list: client/wardapplies and receives Medicaid benefits while receiving rehabilitation in a nursing facility, they can thentransition to Assisted Living or to home with care. In the event the individual is unsafe in their home youmay call APS 1-800-962-2873 for an evaluation, if warranted they contact DOEA and a slot will be awarded.

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While your client/ward is on the waiting list be sure to notify the Aging and Disability Resource Center(ADRC) of any significant changes in their circumstances. A significant change is defined as a change inhealth, living situation, caregiver relationship, or damage to individual’s home, or loss of spouse or caregiver.Review the 701S form (http://elderaffairs.state.fl.us/doea/forms/701S_Screening_Form.pdf) prior to callingthe ADRC to ensure you are prepared to answer the questions appropriately.

Effective November 1, 2015 all Assisted Living Facilities contracting the Medicaid Managed Care Plansmust provide a “home-like” environment. A home-like environment includes providing residents theopportunity to eat on their own schedule, with basic kitchen utensils and food choices available 24/7.Residents also can have visitors whenever they wish, they get to control their daily schedule including theirpersonal sleeping schedule, and have unlimited access to a telephone.

If you have a complaint regarding the Medicaid Managed Care programs the State of Florida wants to knowabout it. You can complain online at https://apps.ahca.myflorida.com/smmc_cirts/ or call 1.877.254.1055.

12FLORIDA MEDICAID LONG TERM MANAGED CARE UPDATE....CONTINUED

(727) 431-2121

jbceren@msn.com

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NAMI Pinellas County is pleased to announceits 2016-2017 Board of Directors. The follow-ing Directors were elected by the members at theNAMI Pinellas Annual Membership Meeting &Election of June 16, 2016 for a 2-year term, JudyTurnbaugh, President; Phyllis Beede, Vice President;Rosalie Bousher, Secretary; John Jones, Treasurer;Jennifer Botelho, Elizabeth Rock, Thomas Wilkins.The following named Directors are serving theirterms from previous membership elections: PatriciaHall, Johnny Limbaugh, April Lott, RichardMichaels.

Witnessing the election was newly-appointedExecutive Director of NAMI Florida, Alisa LaPolt, ofTallahassee. She is responsible for overseeing theoperation of over thirty NAMI Affiliates throughoutour state of Florida.

Week 8 of NAMI 10-session Peer-to-PeerRecovery Education Course at Boley LEAP willresume at 11:00 - 1:30 p.m. Thursday, July 14thwhen mentors Johnny Limbaugh, Patricia Welte-Adams & Thomas Wilkins return from NAMINational Convention in Denver, Colorado. Johnnywill receive one of NAMI National's highest honorsfor 20 years of service. The Lionel AldridgeChampions Award recognizes an individual livingwith mental illness who exhibits courage, leadership &service in his work to promote recovery and ensurethat all people living with mental illness live fulllives in their communities. NAMI Pinellas is veryfortunate to have Johnny on our team and we are soproud of all of his accomplishments! NAMI 10-week Peer-to-Peer education course is open to adultsexperiencing a mental health challenge, or interestedin maintaining their recovery. Please add name to list

for future classes, call Stacy at NAMI PinellasOffice (727) 826-0807. August, September classmay be coming.

Thursday, July 7th Family Support GroupPOSTPONED until 6pm August 4th at TheCentre, Palm Harbor. Your facilitators will be attend-ing the NAMI National Convention in Denver,Colorado July 6th - July 9th. Both Rosalie andBernadette are certain to return with exciting newresearch finds and unlimited hope for us all. AllPalm Harbor families are welcome at FamilySupport Groups at GARDEN HOUSE inClearwater 7:00 p.m. Thursday, July 21st.

Saturday, July 9th. CONNECTION RecoverySupport Group has met from 10:00 - 11:30 a.m.every Saturday with two NAMI trained peer facilitatorssince October 2013. This well-attended supportgroup serves Veteran in-patients currently receivingservices at CW Bill Young VA Medical Center at BayPines, FL.

EVENTS COMING UP - 12-Week FAMILY toFAMILY Course to begin in Palm Harbor in August.Contact Phyllis Beede, NAMI Pinellas VP, F2FTeacher/Trainer at pbeede12@yahoo.com or call(727) 547-8683.

Thursday, July 14th, 7:00 p.m. - NationalMinority Mental Health Awareness Month.Suncoast Hospice/ Empath Health, 5771 RooseveltBlvd, at the GARDEN HOUSE in ClearwaterAccording to NAMI, Minorities are 20 percent morelikely to experience serious mental health problemsthan the general population. Discussion on whymental health issues are ignored and how culturallyresponsive services are needed.

Thursday, July 21st, 7:00 p.m. - FamilySupport Group in The GARDEN HOUSE ofSuncoast Hospice, 5771 Roosevelt Boulevard,Clearwater. Families/Partners/ Caregivers canacquire new views and hope. Our Palm Harbor fam-ilies & caregivers are always welcome to attend ourClearwater Family Support Group.

WH AT’S

UPwith

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❖ At the June Arden Courts Seminolebreakfast, Kathy Saylor of WindmoorHealthcare, and Lanona Robinson, SPC,announced their plans to retire at theend of this July. Elizabeth "Liz" Rock

who was at the breakfast is stepping in at Windmoor asBusiness Development Specialist. No replacement wasannounced for Lanona but that person will have tobe one heck of a multi-tasker to follow in Lanona'sfootsteps.

❖ Mobile Physician Services is keeping their newwound care specialist Melissa Cole, ARPN, busy. MPSCommunity Development Coordinator Katie Ristonlet the group know of Melissa, who was unable to be atthe breakfast because she had a patient to tend to.

❖ Join the Westminster Shores Networking BreakfastThursday, July 28th, 9:00 a.m., 125 56th Ave S, St Pete.

❖ Cherl Sitton, formerly of Heron House, is nowAdmissions Counselor at Oak Manor Senior Living.

❖ Rhae Gartino is the new Director of Marketing atSeasons Largo.

❖ Fundraiser for Alzheimer's Association TuesdayJuly 12th, 5:00-7:00 p.m., Radiance Medspa, 2984West Bay Drive, Belleair Bluffs, $10 donation.

❖ Bowling Fundraiser for the Alzaheimer’s Associatinis taking place Saturday, July 23rd, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. atLiberty Lanes, 11401 Starkey Road, Largo. ContactBecky Moultrie, Assisting Hands Home Care at (727)804-9928 for more information.

❖ Memorial Hospital of Tampa is hosting anEducational Resource Rally Wednesday, July 27th,11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. For more information or reg-istration, contact Mikel Blackburn at (727) 480-8304or mblackburn@seniorlivingguide.com.

❖ Arden Courts Memory Care Communities wel-comes Heather Campese as the new BusinessDevelopment Specialist for the new Arden Courts ofSarasota. Heather has worked in Pinellas County andSarasota / Manatee for many years. If you are in theSarasota area, give Heather a call and schedule a tour tosee the new facility at 5509 Swift Road Sarasota /(941)539-9992/Heather.Campese@HCR-ManorCare.com.

This ‘n That Send your monthly events to eNewsletter editor at pjohns3@tampabay.rr.com or call (727) 596-8919.

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THE DUTIES OF GUARDIANSHIP –EXPLORING CHAPTER 744.361

Submitted by Jennifer Lima-Smith, Esq., Gilbert Garcia Group, P.A.

The Florida Statutesdefine the duties and pow-ers of guardianship. Allthose involved in the careand life of a ward shouldbe familiar with this sectionand the criteria it outlines.There are approximatelyfourteen (14) powers andduties that the legislaturehas created for a guardian.This article is a short

synopsis of each one found in section 744.361, FloridaStatutes (2016).

The first criteria in the section states very clearly thata fiduciary duty arises when someone is appointedguardian over another. The guardian can only exercisethose rights that have been removed from the wardand given (delegated) to the guardian. The court’sorder should be specific and identify these limitationsand rights.

The second, third and fourth criteria state that aguardian needs to act within the scope of authoritygranted by the court. The guardian should only exercisehis/her authority provided by law. A guardian needs toact with the best interest of the ward in mind andalways in good faith. In other words, the decisionsmade need to be thoughtfully carried out given thecircumstances. Each ward’s physical, emotional, andfinancial state might be different and depending onthe decisions to be made, may require different analysis.

The fifth criteria is interesting. It simply says thata guardian who has special skills or expertise, or isappointed based on the representation of those specialskills or expertise, has a duty to use them when actingon behalf of a ward. The actual statutory languagesays, “…shall use those special skills or expertise whenacting on behalf of the ward.” This is critical, and byway of example: If a practicing certified publicaccountant (licensed in good standing) were to beappointed a guardian for a person who is incapacitated,

the CPA would be expected to utilize his/her knowledgeof accounting principles and application for the benefitof the ward when making financial decisions ordecisions about taxes, investments, etc.

All guardians are required to file reports. The sixth,seventh and eighth elements of the statute discuss thereports. The first filing is the initial guardianshipreport in accord with section 744.362. The secondfiling is the annual report in accord with section744.367. The third element is the actual implementationof the plan for the ward. Careful detail should beutilized when creating and implementing theserequirements. Each circuit court has their own formsand format and the local rules should be reviewed toensure compliance with the specific requirements.

The ninth criteria states if two or more guardiansare appointed; the two should consult with each other.One would think this means that on every level ofdecision making, some type of consensus should bereached among the two acting as guardians.

The tenth and eleventh elements are the givenauthority over the property of the ward. The law isclear that the guardian shall protect, preserve andinvest prudently and keep clear, distinct and accuraterecords of the administration of the ward’s property.The guardian is also to perform all other duties asrequired by law and, at the conclusion of the guardianship,deliver the property to the person lawfully entitled toit. And finally, the guardian is to observe standardsthat would be observed by a prudent person whendealing with property of another. In other words,exercise reasonable care and diligence.

The twelfth criteria recognizes that the court canauthorize a guardian to take possession of the ward’sproperty to include rents, income, profits from it,proceeds arising from sales, leases, mortgages. Theseitems are considered assets and from these, debts,taxes, expenses for the care, education, maintenance ofthe ward, care of dependents and expenses of theguardianship can be paid.

continued on page 16

Jennifer Lima-Smith, Esq.

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DUTIES OF GUARDIANSHIP - EXPLORING CHAPTER 744.361...CONTINUED

The thirteenth element states a guardian mustconsider the following under the circumstances: theexpressed desires of the ward unless contact wouldcause harm; allow continued contact with family andfriends; not the physical liberty of the ward more thanreasonable necessary; assist the ward with regainingcapacity where medically possible; notify the court ifits believed the ward has regained capacity or that one ormore rights removed should be restored; make provisionsfor medical, mental rehabilitative or personal care servicesfor the ward; clearly understand the health risks andbenefits of a recommended course of treatment beforemaking a decision; evaluate health care options; advocateon behalf of the ward in institutional and otherresidential settings; and when not inconsistent with theperson’s goals, needs, and preferences, acquire anunderstanding of available residential options and givepriority to home and community based services.

The last item discusses the fact that a professionalmust ensure the ward is personally visited by the

guardian or one of the guardian’s professional staff atleast once per calendar quarter. Documentationshould be made about the ward’s physical appearanceand condition; about the living current living situation,the need for additional services and the necessity forcontinuation of those services while taking intoconsideration all aspects of social, psychological,educational, direct service, health and personal careneeds. They must also weigh and consider the natureand extent of visitation and communication with theward’s family and friends.

All in all, guardians must act with due diligence andreasonable care when exercising the authority and powersgiven to them by the court. It is always best to consultwith professionals and appropriate counsel or an attorney.

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Clerk of the Circuit CourtOffice of Ken Burke

Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller For Pinellas County, Florida

NEWS AND HELPFUL INFORMATION FROM THE CLERK’S OFFICE

Effective 7/15/16, audit fees required by FS 744.365 and 744.3678 for Guardianship InitialInventories and Annual Accountings will be paid in the Portal at the time of Efiling. In utilizingthis feature of the Portal, the Probate office hopes to improve customer service by collectingthe fees when the report is submitted, rather than having to match up the report and the feecoming in separately. The portal allows for an electronic version of a check (ACH) to be used aspayment. Hopefully, this will also make it easier for guardians with many wards to keep track ofaccountings filed and audit fees paid. Just as a reminder, the current fees per statute are:

The Pinellas Clerk’s office is part of a workgroup which includes the Pasco Clerk, professionalguardians, and attorneys to develop new forms to meet the requirements of AdministrativeOrder 2009-036, which requires the guardian to only use the forms provided on thewww.jud6.org website. Hopefully, these new forms will be ready for use by September 1, 2016.The new forms will have the look of the old forms so they will be easier to adapt to and providea smoother transition. The forms were created using Microsoft Word and Excel, but can be usedin other word processing or spreadsheet platforms, so there is no need to acquire new software. Wherever possible, the forms will require information (ward’s name, case number, etc.) to beentered only once and will auto-populate the rest of the form. For inventories and accountings,the form will only require the guardian to enter data. The form will make the calculations withineach schedule and auto-populate the totals on the summary page. The forms are designed tobe completed on your computer, so you can save it and go back to it if you are interrupted. TheClerk’s office is working on instructions and helpful hints for the Initial Inventory and AnnualAccounting to help the guardian avoid an Order Disapproving.

Answers to some other Frequently Asked Questions:Audit fees are required for inventories and accountings, not for plans.Initial Inventories and Plans are due within 60 days of letters being issued.Effective 7/1/15, Annual Plans are due 60 to 90 days prior to the anniversary of letters being issued.Annual Accountings are still due the last day of the 3rd month (approx. 90 days) after the anniversary of letters being issued.Per FS 744.3031, when the Emergency Temporary Guardian becomes the permanent guardian, the ETG final reports satisfy the requirements of the permanent guardian’s initial report.

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••••

•

Report to be Audited:Initial Verified Inventory Property Value up to and including $25,00 ...................................Initial Verified Inventory Property Value in Excess of $25,000 ............................................Annual Accounting Estates with value of: $25,000 or less ...............................................Annual Accounting Estates with value of: $25,000.01 up to & including $100,000 ..........Annual Accounting Estates with value of: $100,000.01 up to and including $500,000 .....Annual Accounting Estates with value in excess of $500,000 .........................................Simplified Accounting, any value ......................................................................................Final Accounting, any value ..............................................................................................

Fee:None85.0020.0085.00170.00250.00NoneNone

contnued on page 18

HOW TO CONTACT US:If we can be of assistance, please call:

Probate Court Records ... 464-3321 (main line)Jerome D. Jordan, Probate Mgr.…...464-3003

4

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continued... If there is a topic you wouldlike discussed in any of our upcoming monthlynewsletter articles please email your suggestionsto: jdjordan@pinellascounty.org.

JJUULLYY IISS UUVV SSAAFFEETTYY MMOONNTTHH.. WWHHAATT''SS YYOOUURR UUVV IIQQ??Submitted by LynnMarie Boltze

Professional Guardian and Senior Helpers

The skin is the body's largest organ, protecting against heat,sunlight, injury, and infection. So it's smart to take good care of your skin.

Over the years several studies have linked overexposure to the sunwith skin cancer. The harmful ultraviolet rays from both the sun andindoor tanning “sunlamps” can cause other complications as well,including eye problems, a weakened immune system, age spots,wrinkles, and leathery skin.

There are simple, everyday steps you can take to safeguard your skin. Wearing clothing thatwill protect your skin from the harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays is very important. Long-sleeved shirtsand pants are good examples. UV rays can also penetrate the structures of your eyes andcause cell damage. According to the CDC, some of the more common sun-related visionproblems include cataracts, macular degeneration, and pterygium (non-cancerous growth ofthe conjunctiva that can obstruct vision). Wear a wide-brimmed hat and wrap-around style sun-glass with 99 or higher UV block to protect your vision.

Sunburns significantly increase one's lifetime risk of developing skin cancer. It is especiallyimportant that children be kept from sunburns as well. Go for the shade. Stay out of the sun,if possible, between the peak burning hours, which, according to the Centers for DiseaseControl and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), are between 10 a.m.and 4 p.m. Use extra caution when near reflective surfaces, like water, snow and sand, eventhe windows of a building can reflect the damaging rays of the sun.

You can experience more UV exposure at higher altitudes, because there is less atmosphereto absorb UV radiation. Generously apply broad-spectrum sunscreen to cover all exposedskin. The “broad spectrum” variety protects against overexposure to ultraviolet A (UVA) andultraviolet B (UVB) rays. The FDA recommends using sunscreens that are not only broadspectrum, but also have a sun protection factor (SPF) value of at least 15.

Even if a sunscreen is labeled as "water-resistant," it must bereapplied throughout the day, especially after sweating or swimming.To be safe, apply sunscreen at a rate of one ounce every two hours.Depending on how much of the body needs coverage, a full-day(six-hour) outing could require one whole tube of sunscreen. Whenapplying sunscreen be sure to reapply to all exposed skin at least 20minutes before going outside. Reapply sunscreen every two hours,even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating.

When planning your outdoor activities, you can decide how much sun protection you needby checking the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) UV index. This index measures thedaily intensity of UV rays from the sun on a scale of 1 to 11. A low UV index requires minimalprotection, whereas a high UV index requires maximum protection.

LynnMarie Boltze

19

June 24thNetworking Breakfast

Pacifica Senior Living Belleair

20

A panel comprised ofLinda Chamberlain,Esq., and GuardiansLola Chiappara andSue Schramek, moderator, discussedissues guardians wrestle with daily intheir contacts withclients.

The Association has 200 one inch notebook/binders

for sale.For more

information call LynnMarie Boltze

at(813) 625-8734.

21

The Palms of Largo is an Independent, Assisted & Memory Care Campus!

GuardianAssociationof Pinellas County, Inc.

Membership Request

22

Membership Year: January 1 through December 31

Membership Application: New Renewal Date:

By joining the GAPC you are affirming that you have read the GAPC bylaws and the adopted Code of Ethics from the National Guardian Association.The GAPC Bylaws and NGA Code of Ethics are available on the Association website: www.GuardianAssociation.org

Guardian $45.00 (must be a Guardian or taken the State Guardian Competency Exam) SPGO# Affiliate $60.00 (Non-guardian, Individual)Corporate $75.00 (company is owner of the membership, includes two members, transferable between employees)

Category for listing on GAPC website (Please check appropriate boxes and print legibly)

Professional Guardian Family Guardian Assisted Living Facility Nursing / Rehab Facility Health Care Agency Attorney Paralegal / Legal Assistant Power of Attorney (POA)Care Manager Finance / Banking Government / Court PersonnelOther

Name

Business Name/Organization

Address

City State Zip

County Home Phone Fax

Email Address Website Address

Please make check payable to Guardian Association. Mail to GAPC, P.O. Box 1826, Pinellas Park, FL 33780To apply or renew membership online, please visit our website at www.GuardianAssociation.org

PPaayy PPaall PPrreeffeerrrreedd.. For more information contact : 813-625-8734.

Call 727-559-7776 for details.2050 East Bay Drive, Largo, FL 33771

www.heronhouseiral.comALF License No. 10811