The Department of Health and Family Services runs the Adult Care Center. Pamela Hurley is the administrator.

The total appropriations for the department are $12,251,202. After revenue, which is derived mostly from federal and state insurance reimbursements, the general fund finances $1,272,547.

There are approximately 220 employees. The facility, which was built in 1990, holds 160 beds. The facility is usually at full capacity. The total salary of the staff - which is mostly registered nurses, nurses aides, and LPNs - comes to $5,772,753. We spend $268,500 for professional services such as doctors.

The Adult Care Center is open to patients from out of Sullivan County; however, priority is given to county residents or residents with out-of-county family members in need.

There are at least two activity programs going on each day between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., and Wednesday nights. The programs include cooking classes, games, band, reading, therapy and massage.

Beyond the inpatient charges, which make up most of the revenue, there is an adult day care program which serves the frail and chronically ill elderly community who opt to live with a family member caretaker.

The day care program provides treatment and social interaction to the elderly in our community and respite services to their families.

The Dietary Department serves 153,852 resident meals, 3,266 daycare meals, and 39,116 employee meals a year. There is an average of 21 residents on tube feeds. Last Thanksgiving, 161 meals were served, and the July 4th picnic saw 270.

The total food expense, one of the largest expenses in the department, is $495,000.

Additionally, the facility's kitchen is capable of preparing meals in enough volume to extend its services. Therefore, the facility contracts to serve 92,589 meals to Meals-on-Wheels, including meeting clients' special dietary needs, each year. This service provides revenues of $236,564.

The facility also spent $538,100 on special supplies. This would include nursing equipment, beds, wheelchairs, etc.

The laundry department washes over 112,000 pounds of linen a year and 420 pounds of personal laundry a day.

Although this type of facility is not mandated, most counties in the state have adult care centers.

Ms. Hurley and Health and Family Services Commissioner Judith Maier were gracious enough to let me tour the facility.

It is stunningly immaculate. The level of care is obviously of high caliber. The residents seemed well cared for, comfortable and clean. The noise level was conversational.

These achievements could only occur through teamwork and great dedication by the staff. They are to be commended.

On a personal note, as a Sullivan County resident, it's reassuring to know that, if I live long enough, my children will have a great place to unload me.