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March-april 2016
New Beginning
Volume 29 Issue 2 march-april 2016 A publication of the St. Mary’s County Department of Aging & Human Services
New beginning
2
In This Issue…
The Wearin’ of The Green; For the luck of the
Irish, join us at our Annual St. Patrick’s Day bash!….......page 13
Medicare & Social Security; A detailed explanation
Of Medicare fees for the current year………………..…...page 6
Meditate; Meditation and mindful prayer help
the mind and body to relax and focus..……………...……..page 9
LIFE (Learning is ForEver); The Spring Semester
of the LIFE (Learning is ForEver) program is gearing
up for many interesting and enjoyable tours. .. ……….….page 10
New Staff Member; Introducing Rebekah Vos,
a Substance Abuse Treatment Specialist..……………..page 4
March-april 2016
3
From the Director’s Desk...
By Lori Jennings-Harris, Director
Department of Aging & Human Services
New
Beginning
The Commissioners of
St. Mary’s County James R. Guy, President
Michael L. Hewitt Tom Jarboe
Todd B. Morgan John E. O’Connor
Publisher: Lori Jennings-Harris,
Director, Department of Aging &
Human Services Editor: Taylor Gregg
New Beginning is
published bi-monthly by the
St. Mary’s County Department of
Aging & Human Services.
Articles may be reprinted from
this newsletter but must be
attributed to the “SMCDAHS, New Beginning.”
To receive a copy of this
newsletter through the U.S. Mail,
call 301-475-4200, ext. *1050.
Editorial submissions should
be sent to: St. Mary’s County Department
of Aging & Human Services
P.O. Box 653
Leonardtown, MD 20650 or visit the website at:
www.stmarysmd.com/aging
Our Mission
To provide an array of programs
and services that foster
continued physical and mental
good health, and promote
healthy aging within the senior
community.
“Every year in March, the NWHP [National Women’s History
Project] coordinates observances of National Women’s History
Month throughout the country. The NWHP originated this widely
recognized celebration and sets the annual theme, produces
educational materials, and chooses particular women to honor
nationally for their work.” This year’s theme is Working to Form
a More Perfect Union: Honoring Women in Public Service and
Government. The theme recognizes “… women who have shaped
America’s history and its future through their public service and
government leadership.” This year’s honorees are:
Sister Mary Madonna Ashton, CSJ
Public Health Leader and Minnesota Commissioner of Health
Daisy Bates
Civil Rights Organizer,
Leader of the Little Rock School Integration
Sonia Pressman Fuentes
NOW co-founder, first woman attorney in the Office of the
General Counsel at the EEOC
Isabel Gonzalez
Champion of Puerto Ricans securing American Citizenship
Ella Grasso
Governor of Connecticut, First Woman Governor of any US State
Elected in Her Own Right
Suzan Shown Harjo
Native American Public Policy Advocate and Journalist
Judy Hart
National Park Founding Superintendent of Rosie the Riveter
World War II Home Front National Historical Park and Women’s
Rights National Historical Park
Oveta Culp Hobby
WWII Director of the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps and first
Secretary of the US Department of Health, Education, and
Welfare
Barbara Mikulski
Longest Serving Woman in the United States Congress
(continued over…)
New Beginning
Women’s History
Month
New beginning
4
New Staff Member
By Rebekah Vos
As a recent graduate of Binghamton University
with a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development, I
am eager and excited to begin my career at the St.
Mary’s County Department of Aging & Human
Services as a Substance Abuse Treatment Specialist.
Prior to moving to Maryland, I worked for a number
of different non-profit organizations. After earning
my Associates degree in Human Services from
Tompkins Cortland Community College in New
York, I joined an AmeriCorps program and was
placed with the Cortland Community Action Program
in Cortland, NY. My primary task was the manage-
ment of the community clothing closet but I also
assisting with the Family Development program,
WIC, and Head Start. At the end of the year, I returned home to Owego, NY and assisted with a
flood relief program through Catholic Charities to service community members that were still
recovering from Hurricane Irene. My most recent experience comes from my practicum
completed at the Tioga Opportunities, Inc. Department of Aging in Owego, where I shadowed
the Aging Services Coordinator through all the working activities of the agency.
I married my husband Chris in August 2015 and moved to Lexington Park from Owego, a
small town near Binghamton in upstate New York. We are enjoying our time together after a
few years of long distance, and have begun building a life for ourselves and getting settled in
this beautiful area. After a busy few years completing my degree, I enjoy having more free
time to participate in the many things I love to do: learning how to cook and bake are top on my
list, but I also enjoy board games and puzzles, traveling, and volunteering.
(From The Director’s Desk; continued) Inez Milholland
Woman Suffrage Leader and Martyr
Karen Narasaki
Civil and Human Rights Leader
Nancy Grace Roman
Chief of Astronomy at NASA
Bernice Sandler
Women’s Rights Activist, “Godmother of Title IX”
Nadine Smith
LGBT Civil Rights Activist and Executive Director of Equality Florida
Dorothy C Stratton
WWII Director of the SPARS (Coast Guard Women’s Reserve), first full-time Dean of Women
at Purdue University, and Executive Director of the Girl Scouts of the USA
Betty Mae Tiger Jumper
First Woman Chairman of the Seminole Tribe and Presidential Adviser
To learn more about some of the women who have helped to shape our country and our world check
out the NWHP website at www.nwhp.org/womens-history-month/2016-theme/
Rebekah Vos
March-april 2016
5
Nutrition Corner
Why Corporations Make it
Hard to Trust Nutrition Studies by Vince Dixon
Two words: funding bias.
When reports revealed that the Global Energy Balance Network, a
nonprofit that used obesity research to stress fitness over healthy eat-
ing, was actually quietly funded by Coca-Cola, many people felt misled.
The "Coca-Cola debacle," or as some have been calling it, the "GEBN
debacle," has also left many in nutrition research feeling embarrassed.
Coke's shifty involvement with the group reignited a longstanding
debate about corporate-sponsored science and "funding bias," the idea
that sponsors of research have an inherent bias that influences results.
It's a pervasive issue in nutritionist circles, but many folks might be
surprised to know how often the nutrition claims they read about have
roots in corporate sponsorship. Common claims like chocolate is good
for health, or that grape skins and wine have anti-aging properties, or
that the Mediterranean diet prevents heart disease have been touted
using research supported with funds or scientists closely connected to all
kinds of potentially biased organizations, from Mars, Inc. to California
Walnut Commission.
But the research community has been markedly at odds over the
amount of damage funding bias is bringing to people's understanding of
food and health, and what should be done to stop it. On one end, experts
have been highly critical of industry-funded studies and say that type of
research should almost always be avoided. On the other end, researchers
who accept corporate funds say funding is a very small part of a larger
issue, if even an issue at all.
Dubious Studies Dr. Marion Nestle, nutrition and food studies professor at New York University, falls in the
first group. "I worry a lot about the effects of industry sponsorship on public belief in the credi-
bility of nutrition science," Nestle, the author of Soda Politics: Taking on Big Soda (and Win-
ning), told (sic-) us. Just because a claim is supposedly backed by "clinical studies" doesn't
mean it can be trusted. Even if the research is scientifically sound, Nestle said, ultimately the
basis for many corporate-sponsored research is marketing, not just public health. And if there is
no scientific basis for the research, companies can make one up.
"The most cogent example is POM Wonderful," Nestle said. "That company spent a
fortune, reportedly $35 million, to demonstrate that pomegranate juice has antioxidant proper-
ties (really, I could have told them that up front) and other properties that they used for health
claims so absurd that the Federal Trade Commission got after them." The FTC acts on leads
from consumers, businesses, and the media to investigate misleading marketing claims, which
can result in litigation.
From www.eater.com/nutrition/research
Registered Trade Mark: Coca-cola Inc.
New beginning
6
Medicare Premium Correction
In the November-December 2015 issue of New Beginning it was stated that the Part B
premium for 2016 would be $104.90. While this information is technically correct, it only
applies to beneficiaries who are enrolled in Medicare prior to 2016. For individuals who enroll
in Medicare in 2016 the premium will be $121.80. Since there was not a Social Security cost-
of–living adjustment (COLA) increase in 2016, Medicare beneficiaries are protected from the
increase due to the hold harmless provision if:
You are entitled to Social Security benefits for November and December of the current
year (2015);
The Medicare Part B premium will be or was deducted
from your Social Security benefits in November 2015
through January 2016;
You don’t already pay higher Part B premiums
because of Income-Related Monthly Adjustment
Amount (IRMAA) eligibility; and
You do not receive a Cost of Living Adjustment
(COLA) large enough to cover the increased premium.
The hold harmless provision does not protect you if:
You are new to Medicare in 2016. Hold harmless does
not apply to you because you have not been enrolled in Medicare Part B long enough.
You are subject to IRMAA.
You are enrolled in a Medicare Savings Program (MSP). However, the MSP should
continue paying for your full Part B premium.
You were enrolled in a Medicare Savings Program in 2015 but lost the program because
your income increased or you failed to recertify.
Note: If you qualify for the hold harmless provision but pay a Part B late enrollment penalty,
the penalty will not be waived, and may increase. This is because the penalty will be calculated
based on the new, higher premium even if you are not paying that higher amount. Thus while
your base Part B premium will not change, you’ll likely face a higher total Part B premium bill
due to the late enrollment penalty. (from federal government Centers for Medicare & Medicaid
Services)
Social Security Changes File and Suspend Going Away: if you are 66 or older, you can file for full benefits and then
turn around and suspend them. For each year you suspend your benefits up until age 70, you get
an extra 8% added to your check. By age 70, you could see a 32% increase in your checks.
But why file in the first place? Because it entitles the person’s spouse, provided the spouse is
the lower wage earner, to receive spousal benefits even if the beneficiary suspends his/her
payouts. Furthermore, if the person receiving spousal benefits also qualified for his/her own
benefits, that individual could wait until age 70 and get an 8% annual raise too.
But that’s going to change. Under the new law, starting May 1, 2016, if you file and
suspend, your spouse is no longer eligible for spousal benefits. Until that date, you and your
spouse may still be able to gain the advantages of this strategy.
Senior Information & Assistance By Debbie Barker, Senior I & A Manager
March-april 2016
7
No More Lump-Sum Payout: once you turn 66, you’re eligible for full retirement benefits. If
you choose to suspend your benefits, you can later collect those back benefits in one of two
ways: an increase on each of your checks or a lump sum payout for back benefits. As of May 1,
2016 this will no longer be an option. To learn more about these changes visit www.ssa.gov or
call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213.
Property Tax Credit Available For Eligible Homeowners Each year the State of Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation provides a
credit for the real property tax bill for homeowners who qualify on the basis of gross household
income. Previous applicants must submit a new application each year.
To have your application considered for a tax credit the dwelling for which application
is being made must be your principal residence, where you reside or expect to reside for more
than six months of the tax year; have a legal interest in the property; have a gross household
income less than $60,000 and your net worth, excluding the value of the property for which
application is being made, must not exceed $200,000 as of December 31, 2015. If these
requirements are met, the amount of tax credit due, if any, will be calculated on the basis of the
gross household income for the calendar year 2015 and the 2016 property tax bill. Income
information must be reported for the resident home owner(s), spouse or co-owner, and all other
occupants of the dwelling unless these occupants can be claimed as dependents or unless they
are paying reasonable fixed charges such as rent or room and board.
The deadline for filing a 2016 Homeowner’s Property Tax Credit is September 1, 2016.
However, applicants are encouraged to file their applications prior to May 1, to receive a credit
directly on their August property tax bill. Eligible applicants, who file their applications after
May 1, will receive a tax credit certificate to be used toward payment of the tax bill or for a
refund if the bill has already been paid.
Applications for this program are available at each senior activity center. Assistance is
available for those 60 and over by calling Debbie Barker at the Garvey Senior Activity Center
at 301-475-4200, ext. *1064 or Melissa Craig at the Loffler Senior Center at 301-737-5670,
ext. *1654 or the Northern Senior Activity Center at 301-475-4002, ext. *1004.
Energy Assistance Program The Tri-County Community Action Committee Energy Assistance office is still receiving
applications for the 2015-2016 program year. Anyone who has not applied for the program
since July 2015 is encouraged to apply now. Energy Assistance provides grant funds to the
electric and heating supplier of your choice to help reduce energy costs. To be eligible an indi-
vidual’s gross monthly income must be less than $1,716 or $2,323 for a two person household.
To apply contact Tri-County at 301-475-5574, ext. 200. For individuals age 60 and over or
with a disability contact Melissa Craig at 301-737-5670, ext. 1654.
Our Extensions Have Changed
Please be advised; the phone extensions for the Department of Aging &
Human Services, Garvey Senior Activity Center, and Northern Senior
Activity Center have changed. Please make sure to add an asterisk (*)
before all the extensions in these locations..
New beginning
8
Home & Community-Based Services
By Rebecca Kessler, Division Manager
Whether you are assisting with the care of a frail spouse, parent, friend or other relative,
caring for an older adult is a labor of love. Join us on April 22 for the annual Southern Mary-
land Caregivers Conference. Designed for the family caregiver, this one-day event is a wonder-
ful opportunity to enrich one’s knowledge and skills in caring for older people. The $30 confer-
ence fee includes a continental breakfast, lunch, conference materials, exposure to service pro-
viders in the exhibition area, and the opportunity to attend professionally presented educational
sessions on the following topics:
Planning for Successful Caregiving
Understanding Medicare
Oral Health Related to Total Health
Medication Management
Hospice
Coping with Challenging Behavior Associated with Dementia
Diabetes Care
Everyday Activities for People with Dementia
Body Mechanics and Safe Caregiving in the Home
Understanding Medicaid Coverage for the Aging and Disabled
Depression & Older Adults
Home & Community-Based Services
Mental Health First Aid and the Older Adult
Palliative Care
Medical Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment
Fitness for Optimal Health
Mindfulness
For additional information, or to receive a registration brochure by mail, please contact
Cindy Olmsted at 301-934-0128 or DC metro (301) 870-3388, ext. 5128 or e-mail
24th Annual Southern Maryland Caregiver’s Conference Friday, April 22, 2016
Richard R. Clark Senior Center
La Plata, Maryland
Sponsored by:
The Geriatrics and Gerontology Education and Research Program,
University of Maryland, Baltimore
&
The Charles County Department of Community Services,
Aging and Senior Programs Division
In cooperation with:
St. Mary’s County Department of Aging & Human Services
&
Calvert County Office on Aging
March-april 2016
9
To inquire about a Scholarship opportunity to attend this conference, please contact Rebecca
Kessler, HCBS Division Manager, St. Mary’s County Department of Aging by calling 301-475
-4200, ext. *1061, or email [email protected].
Long Term Care Ombudsman Program Announcement
The Home & Community-Based Services Division announce and welcome Taylor Gregg as a
Certified Tier I Volunteer Ombudsman effective January 13, 2016. Mr. Gregg has completed
all the requirements for Certification. His desire and dedication to the residents in long-term
care will make an excellent addition to the Volunteer Ombudsman Program in St. Mary’s
County. We are so pleased to welcome our newest teammate!
Five Healthy Techniques Psychological Research
Has Shown to Help Reduce Long & Short-term Stress
1. Take a break from the cause of the stress. It may seem difficult to get away from a big work
project, a crying baby or a growing credit card bill. But when you give yourself permission to
step away from it, you let yourself have time to do something else, which can help you have a
new perspective or practice techniques to feel less overwhelmed. It’s important to not avoid
your stress (those bills have to be paid sometime), but even just 20-minutes to take care of
yourself is helpful.
2. Exercise. The research keeps growing; exercise benefits your mind as well as your body. We
keep hearing about the long-term benefits of a regular exercise routine. But even a 20-minute
walk, run, swim or dance session in the midst of a stressful time can give an immediate effect
that can last for several hours.
3. Smile and laugh. Our brains are interconnected with our emotions and facial expressions.
When people are stressed, they often hold a lot of the stress in their faces So laughs or smiles
can help relieve some of that tension and improve the situation.
4. Get social support. Call a friend, send an email.
When you share your concerns or feelings with an-
other person, it does help relieve stress. But it’s
important that the person whom you talk to is some-
one whom you trust and whom you feel can under-
stand and validate you. If your family is a cause of
stress, for example, it may not alleviate your stress to
share your work woes with one of them.
5. Meditate. Meditation and mindful prayer help the
mind and body to relax and focus. Mindfulness can
help people see new perspectives, develop self-
compassion and forgiveness. When practicing a form
of mindfulness, people can release emotions that
may have been causing the body physical stress.
Much like exercise, research has shown that even
meditating briefly can reap immediate benefits.
(American Psychological Association)
New beginning
10
Focus On Fitness
By Alice Allen, Division Manager, Senior Center Operations
Welcome to March, Spring is on its way!! It’s time for
new growth and time to celebrate Women’s History Month. In
the United States, women have played an important part in
history. In more recent history, some important women in-
clude Astronaut Sally Ride, Supreme Court Judge Sandra Day
O’Connor and Anthropologist Margaret Mead. You might be
wondering what these women and Women’s History Month
have to do with an article about fitness. Well, each of these
women shares a common characteristic, intelligence. And, did
you know that being physically active increases your brain-
power? In addition to reducing the risk of heart disease, Type
2 Diabetes and cancer, being physically active is the best thing
you can do for your brain. Physical activity increases the flow
of blood and oxygen to the brain, feeding the growth of new
neurons and connections. According to John Medina, affiliate
professor of bioengineering at the University of Washington
School of Medicine, being physically active “slashes your
lifetime risk of Alzheimer’s in half and your risk of general
dementia by 60 percent” (AARP Bulletin/Real Possibilities September 2013).
It doesn’t take much physical activity to reap the many benefits it affords. Just 150 minutes
a week will enhance your brain health. Anything that gets you moving is key. So, whether it’s
walking for half an hour 5 times during the week, attending fitness classes at your local senior
activity center (see pages 32-33 for a complete list of available classes), gardening or dancing,
just get up and get moving. Your body and your brain will be glad you did!! To learn more
about fitness classes at the senior activity centers, call Alice at 301-475-4200, ext. *1063.
Pickleball Leonard Hall Recreation Center
Wednesdays, April 6–May 25, 8-10 a.m., cost: $32
Pickleball is the up and coming sport in the United States for older
adults. The game has grown in popularity in St. Mary’s County over
the past couple of years and offers a great way to exercise while having
fun. Equipment is available for use. Fees should be paid in advance at
the Garvey Senior Activity Center. Register early because space is
limited; registration opens March 7. To learn more call 301-475-4200,
ext. *1050.
(NOTE: New phone system requires a * before extension)
March-april 2016
11
Wanted: Older Adults Who Like to Eat!! Did you know that St. Mary’s County has three sen-
ior activity centers open to independent older adults
Monday through Friday where lunch is served? In
addition to many fun, exciting activities available,
the senior activity centers serve a delicious, nutri-
tious, catered lunch each weekday. Adults age 60
and over can enjoy lunch among friends, and dona-
tions are accepted. Continued social involvement and
good nutrition are key to healthy, independent aging.
By joining your friends for lunch at the Garvey,
Loffler, or Northern Senior Activity Centers, you are taking a positive step, and enjoying these
benefits:
Good nutrition to maintain or improve health
An opportunity to socialize
Healthy, tasty, fresh food
Stretches your food dollar if your budget is tight
Try lunch at your local senior activity center. Call 301-475-4200, ext. *1050 by noon the day
before to make a reservation. The monthly menu is available at the centers or on-line at
www.co.saint-marys.md.us/docs/agingmonthlymenu.
St. Mary’s County Public
School
Athletic Passes A complimentary pass is available
to all senior citizens who are age
55 or older. The pass allows the
pass holder free admittance to
regular season high school athletic
events in St. Mary’s County Public
Schools. Passes can be picked up
Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
at the Garvey Senior Activity Center in
Leonardtown. Proof of age is required.
To learn more call 301-475-4200,
ext. *1050.
Passes Available for you to attend
Athletic Events
New beginning
12
GARVEY Senior Activity Center
Kickboxing Garvey Senior Activity Center
Wednesdays, March 2-April 13, 8:30-9:30 a.m., $30
Kickboxing tones muscles through punching and kicking using focus and
target pads and mitts. Participants may notice an improvement in overall balance and
flexibility. The aerobic moves of kickboxing have been shown to improve circula-
tion and offer great stress relief. This specialized class is geared towards
active men and women ages 50 and above and has great energy without the high
impact exercises that are done during a mainstream kickboxing class.
Instructor Geno Rothback is an RN, senior fitness instructor, black belt
in Taekwondo, and certified Martial Fusion and Kickboxing instructor.
Sleep Problems and Disorders Garvey Senior Activity Center, Wednesday, March 9, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Sleep is essential to feeling refreshed and rested, and is an indis-
pensable part of a healthy lifestyle. Beginning March 6, the Na-
tional Sleep Foundation will celebrate Sleep Awareness Week, its
annual event to raise awareness regarding the health benefits of
sleep and its importance to safety and productivity. The Garvey
Senior Activity Center is participating in this year’s event with a
presentation given by the SLEEP! Testing and Treatment Center
in California, Maryland. The presenter will provide information
about sleep disturbances, sleep disorders and changing sleep pat-
terns. Register by calling 301-475-4200, ext. *1050.
Book Discussion Group Garvey Senior Activity Center
Wednesdays, March 9, 2 p.m., April 13, 10:30 a.m.
The Garvey Book Discussion Group is looking for more members.
Do you ever find that after reading a book you need to talk about it
with others? This is the perfect opportunity to review and share with
a group of people who share the same passion. In March, the group
will discuss The Famine Ships: The Irish Exodus to America by Ed-
ward Laxton. The Famine Ships tells of the courage and determina-
tion of the Irish potato famine immigrants who crossed the Atlantic
in leaky, overcrowded sailing ships and made new lives for them-
selves; among them the child Henry Ford and the twenty-six year old
Patrick Kennedy, great-grandfather of John F. Kennedy. In April the
group will discuss The Painter by Peter Heller, a suspenseful page
turner about the life of a famous artist trying to outrun a past of
violence and loss. To learn more, call 301-475-4200, ext. *1072.
(NOTE: New phone system requires a * before extension)
In Leonardtown, 301-475-4200, ext. *1050
March-april 2016
13
Key Basket-weaving Class Garvey Senior Activity Center
Mondays, March 14 & 21, 1-4 p.m.
This handy basket can hang on a hook or doorknob to hold keys and
other small items. Learn to make a wrapped handle as part of a basket.
There will also be some choice of colored reed to add decorative rows,
if you would like, as well as a choice of tie-ons. The finished product
measures approximately 6" L x 4" W x 8" H. The cost for the kit and in-
struction is $35, payable in advance. Make checks out to Pam King. To
learn more, call 301-475-4200, ext. *1050.
Tai Chi for Arthritis: The Extension Movements Garvey Senior Activity Center
Mondays, March 14-April 18, 8:15-9:15 a.m.
Medical studies confirm Tai Chi for Arthritis relieves pain,
reduces falls and improves quality of life. This class is a
continuation from Tai Chi for Arthritis: The Core
Movements. Students will learn new movements and learn
how to incorporate the Tai Chi principles into practice.
Prerequisite: Students must have taken Tai Chi for Arthri-
tis: The Core Movements for at least one 6-week session prior to signing up for this course. To
register for this class, call 301-475-4200, ext. *1050.
Spring Gardening Garvey Senior Activity Center
Tuesdays, March 15, 22 & 29, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
The University of Maryland Extension; St. Mary’s County Master Gardeners will present a series
of gardening topics to help you get your garden ready for spring. There is no fee to attend the
presentations. Advance registration is required by calling 301-475-4200, ext. *1050. When regis-
tering, indicate which session(s) you will be attending.
March 15: Attracting Birds and Bees to Your Garden
March 22: Designing Your Container Garden
March 29: Introduction to Pruning
Wearin’ of the Green Bash at O’Garvey Garvey Senior Activity Center
Thursday, March 17, Lunch at Noon; music 12:30-1:30 p.m.
For the luck of the Irish, join us at our Annual St. Patrick’s Day
bash! Enjoy a traditional meal of Irish Stew, Irish Soda Bread,
Steamed Cabbage and a Fruit Tart in a Graham Cracker Crust, milk/
coffee/tea. Irish tunes to be performed by John Pomerville, singer of
traditional Irish pub tunes. Cost for lunch is by donation for those
ages 60 and above and $6 for those under the age of 60. To make
reservations, call 301-475-4200, ext. *1050. Remember to wear
your lucky green!
New beginning
14
Spring Break “Spring Into Spring” Celebration: Bring Your Grandkids! Garvey Senior Activity Center
Wednesday, March 23, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Calling all grandparents! St. Mary’s County Public Schools are
on Spring Break and what better way to spend some time with
your grandkids then at the Garvey Senior Activity Center. For
this special event, planned with grandparents and grandkids in
mind, you will play Easter Bingo (prizes for adults and kids),
make a spring craft together, eat a pizza lunch, and
partake in a spring gardening project facilitated by the
St. Mary’s County Master Gardeners. Grandparents
and kids will each receive a printed photo to take
home to remember their special day together. We
anticipate this event will fill quickly so register early.
Registration opens March 1 and runs through March
11 or until filled. Payment is due at the time of registration. Cost is $12 per grand-
parent/child pair. Each additional child is $6. Activities are designed for preschool
through early elementary age children. To learn more, call 301-475-4200, ext. *1050.
Registration fee is due on or before March 11.
Living Well... Take Charge of Your Health Garvey Senior Activity Center
Mondays, April 4–May 9, 1:30-4 p.m.
This program is an evidence-based Chronic Disease Self-Management Workshop developed by
Stanford University. The workshop is for any person who has one or more chronic conditions
and who wants to learn to live more healthfully. It helps people learn everyday skills to manage
chronic health symptoms and get the most out of life. Caregivers of a person with a chronic con-
dition are also invited to attend. In the Living Well… Take Charge of Your Health workshop, you
will learn how to manage symptoms, how to communicate effectively with doctors, how to
lessen frustration, how to fight fatigue, how to make daily tasks easier, and how to get more out
of life. To ensure that you get the most out of the program, attendance is recommended at all six
sessions. Registration is limited, so sign up now by calling 301-475-4200, ext. *1050
SMART Medicine Garvey Senior Activity Center
Tuesday, April 5, 9-10 a.m.
SMART Medicine is a local media campaign
designed to generate awareness for the rising
issue of opioid misuse and abuse in addition
to providing information and resources
regarding the safe management and disposal
of prescription medications. This program is
committed to ensuring that prescription
medication is used only to help, not harm.
Contact Maryellen Kraese at [email protected] or
301-475-4200, ext. *1681, to learn more or register.
March-april 2016
15
AARP Smart Driver Course Garvey Senior Activity Center
Friday, April 8, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., $15 for AARP members, $20 for nonmembers
A lot has changed since AARP Driver Safety first began as “55 Alive.” The roads have
changed, cars and the technology inside them have changed, even the people behind the wheel
have changed. As drivers, if we don’t keep up with those changes we put others and ourselves
at risk. As a result of evidence-based research findings, the course has been adjusted to include
a focus on areas where older drivers could benefit from additional training, including: rounda-
bouts, pavement markings, stop-sign compliance, red-light running, and safety issues such as
speeding, seatbelt and turn-signal use. Membership card required to get the member rate.
Advance sign up is required. Lunch is available at the Center; cost is a donation for ages 60 and
above and $6 for others. Call 301-475-4200, ext. *1050 to register for the class, to get the lunch
menu, and to make lunch reservations.
Author Readings Garvey Senior Activity Center
Tuesday, April 12, 1-2 p.m.
Author readings offer a rare and exciting opportunity to hear authors
reading their works. Ellynne Davis, author of Ellynne's Top Tomato
Cookbook will read selections from her cookbook and talk on writing
your favorite family recipes with illustrations and publishing through
local printers. Linda A. Stewart will also be present with her Snow's
Rest; A Maryland Mystery series. She will speak on the use of historical
research in fiction and the process of self-publishing with Createspace,
an independent publishing platform. Register in advance for the read-
ings by calling 301-475-4200, ext. *1050.
Friday Morning Softball Miedzinski Park, Leonardtown (field in front of Leonard Hall Recreation Center)
Fridays, beginning April 22, 10 a.m.
Spring is in the air and it’s time to dust off that bat and glove and head out to Miedzinski Park
for a pick-up game of softball. Men and women ages 50 and above are welcome. Call the Gar-
vey Senior Activity Center at 301-475-4200, ext. *1050 to learn more.
5th Annual Book Sale: New This Year… Super Sale Day! Garvey Senior Activity Center
Tuesday, April 26 & Wednesday, April 27, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Donate your used books to the Garvey Senior Activity Center’s used book sale fundraiser. All
funds raised will go towards special events and entertainment at center events. Books for all
ages are welcome. Hardcovers, paperback, and books on CD in good condition are appreciated.
Please, no encyclopedias, textbooks, outdated computer/software manuals, magazines or very
worn books. To make a donation, drop off your items at the Garvey Senior Activity Center
Monday – Friday, April 6-17 from 8-4:30 p.m. The public is invited to shop the book sale on
Tuesday, April 26 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Costs are $0.50 per paperback and $1 per hardback. On
Wednesday, April 27, shop the super sale! Fill a grocery bag (we’ll provide) for $5! To learn
more, call 301-475-4200, ext. *1050.
New beginning
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LOFFLER Senior Activity Center
Art Classes by Jamie Naluai Loffler Senior Activity Center
Tuesdays, 10 a.m.-noon
Cost: $85 each month (4 sessions)
March: “Drawing,” April: “Faces”
In March learn some drawing techniques using pen and ink,
pencil and charcoal. April will be the month to learn how to
draw portraits. Cost of art classes includes enough paint and
supplies to get you started. Classes are appropriate for be-
ginners as well as intermediate level. Payment made to in-
structor on the first day of class. Call 301-737-5670, ext.
1658 to sign up or to learn more.
Open Studio Art by Jamie Naluai Loffler Senior Activity Center
2nd and 4th Fridays of each month, 10 a.m.–noon, Cost- Supplies
Jamie offers Open Studio Art two Fridays per month for no cost other than any supplies you
might need. You may bring in independent work, or you can work on a project that will be
directed by Jamie. Sign up for these sessions by calling 301-737-5670, ext. 1658.
Dollar Bingo at Loffler Loffler Senior Activity Center
Tuesdays (Except for Lunch Connection Tuesday), 12:30-1:30 p.m., and the Wednesday after
Tuesday Lunch Connection, 10:30-11:30 a.m., COST: $1 per card, up to 3 cards
Play Bingo to win household items for an hour every week. Usually played on Tuesday from
12:30 to 1:30 p.m. except for Lunch Connection day in which case it will be played on the
following Wednesday from 12:30 p.m. To learn more call 301-737-5670, ext. 1658.
Strength Training with Dave Loffler Senior Activity Center, Tuesdays
10-11 a.m., Fitness Card required
Dave Scheible leads this class that is designed to improve your
level of fitness and well-being. Working out with resistance
bands and lifting weights will lead to stronger bones, better flex-
ibility and increased strength. What’s not to love about that?
Check out this class for free on any Tuesday. Subsequent classes
will be by fitness card-(Fitness cards are $30 and are good for 10
fitness classes of any type at any of the St. Mary’s County
Senior Activity Centers). To learn more call 301-737-5670,
ext. 1658.
In Great Mills, 301-737-5670, ext. *1658
March-april 2016
17
Puzzles and Table Games Loffler Senior Activity Center
Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Sometimes it’s nice to just hang out, enjoy a cup of coffee
and work on a puzzle or play a game. We have many
puzzles and games available at Loffler. Generally we like to
have three people to a puzzle and there is quite a selection.
Do you like to play Scrabble or Dominoes? Pull a favorite
game or a deck of cards out of the closet, someone there is
likely to play if you invite him/her.
Volunteer Opportunity Loffler Senior Activity Center
Thursdays 9 a.m.-12 p.m. (Flexible)
At Loffler, we want to reinvent our sewing
program. Classes are popular and many
people love making something special and
bringing it home. In the past we’ve had
tote bag and apron classes that were well
received. We are looking for someone who
would like to teach and coordinate pro-
jects. At this time, an activity room is
scheduled every Thursday morning for our
sewing program. If you are someone who
loves sharing the joy of sewing, please
contact Shellie at 301-737-5670, ext. 1655
or e-mail
History and Educational Video Series Loffler Senior Activity Center
Wednesday, March 9, 10 a.m., A Fierce Green Fire, Free
Spanning 50 years of grassroots and global activism, this Sundance
documentary brings to light the vital stories of the environmental move-
ment where people fought, and succeeded, against enormous odds.
Narrated by Robert Redford, Ashley Judd and Meryl Streep, etc., this
timely video is sure to inspire those who care for our earth (101 minutes).
ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION Loffler Senior Activity Center
Thursday, March 17, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Ticket Required, $7 Donation
Faith and Begorrah, we’ll be celebrating the luck of the Irish on St. Paddy’s Day!
Wear your green and be ready for a few shenanigans. During the lunch hour we will
enjoy Irish music by David Norris and speaking of lunch, it will be Irish Stew, Irish
Soda Bread, Steamed Cabbage and a Fruit Tart in a Graham Cracker Crust.
Advance tickets needed from Loffler; call 301-737-5670, ext. 1658 to learn more.
New beginning
18
Loffler’s LUNCH CONNECTION Tuesday, Mar. 8/Thursday, March 24, and Tuesday, April 12/Thursday, April 28
Entertainment on Tuesday begins at 11:30 a.m., lunch is served at noon. Advance reservations
are required, preferably at least 2 weeks in advance. Call 301-737-5670, ext. 1658. There will be
an appreciation basket for our performers and a 50/50 raffle at each luncheon.
Tuesday, March 8: Tommy Alvey and his bluegrass band will
get your feet tapping with their music from days gone-by. Enjoy
lunch of Cranberry Juice, Pork Roast, Gravy, Mashed Potatoes,
Green Beans, Applesauce with Cinnamon, WW Dinner Roll, and
Pound Cake with Cherry Topping served to you at your table.
Thursday, March 24: Tossed Salad, Spaghetti Noodles
with Meat Sauce, Roasted Cauliflower, Italian Bread,
Apricots, Parmesan Cheese and Lemon Meringue Pie
will be served to you this day.
Tuesday, April 12: Mickey
Ramos and the Lounge Dogs
will get the place jumping with their popular brand of old time
rock & roll! As you listen, your taste buds will be treated to a
lunch of Orange Juice, Roast Beef, Gravy, Mashed Potatoes,
Stewed Tomatoes, WW Dinner
Roll, Mandarin Oranges and a
scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream.
Thursday, April 28: Finish out the month of April with
some Chicken Salad! Add on Fruit Juice, Cottage Cheese,
Peaches, Pineapple. WW Bread, and an Oatmeal Cookie
and you have a lunch made to welcome Spring!
Monthly Crafts Loffler Senior Activity Center
Fridays, March 11 & 18 (2 sessions), 10 a.m. “Hand-Decorated Picture Frames,” Cost $3
plus your old wooden picture frame for photos
This two-part class will start with making distressed paper flowers. Leave them at the center to
dry and return the following week to decoupage beautiful scrapbook paper onto your picture
frame, then hot glue the flowers onto it. You may want to bring your favorite photograph!
Friday, April 1, 10 a.m.; “Succulent Gardens for Small Spaces,” Cost TBD
You don’t need to live in the desert or have a big yard to have a succulent garden! You just need
a glass bowl, some dirt, gravel and, of course, the plants. We will supply everything you need to
design your own little garden. For questions about either of these projects call 301-737-5670,
ext. 1658 or sign up at the Loffler reception desk.
March-april 2016
19
Pain Management Exercises for Arthritis Loffler Senior Activity Center
Thursday, March 24, 10 a.m., Free
Mike O’Brien, a physical therapist and the owner of Freedom Physical Therapy in Mechanicsville
will be at the Loffler Senior Activity Center to discuss specific ways to deal with arthritis. He will
cover proper warm-up exercises for activity, proper stretching and strengthening exercises to main-
tain and improve range of motion and strength without causing injury. Proper exercise is a great way
to improve blood circulation to stiff, painful arthritic joints for improved function. There will also be
a question and answer period related to arthritis. To sign up for this free presentation call 301-737-
5670, ext. 1658 or stop by the reception desk.
History and Educational Video Series Wed. March 9, 10 a.m. “A Fierce Green Fire” Spanning 50 years of grassroots and global activism, this Sun-
dance documentary brings to light the vital stories of the environ-
mental movement where people fought, and succeeded, against
enormous odds. Narrated by Robert Redford, Ashley Judd and
Meryl Streep, among others this timely video is sure to inspire
others who care for our earth (101 minutes).
Wed. April 6, 10 a.m., “Renewable Energy” In keeping with National Earth Month and following on the heels
of March’s video about the environmental movement, we will
take a look at ways air, water, earth, and fire are transformed into
clean, reliable sources of heat, electricity, and even automobile
fuel. This 50-minute video looks at several implementations of
renewable energy that are already in place including a solar roof
by FedEx at a regional sort facility in Oakland, Calif., a wind
power project in central New York using fewer, larger turbines,
and the widespread use of geothermal energy in Iceland plus
much more. Register for either of these videos by calling 301-737
-5670, ext. 1658 or stop by the reception desk to sign up (Seating
is limited).
“I can hear, I can’t understand.” Loffler Senior Activity Center
Thursday, April 21, 10 a.m.
Hearing Loss, Daily Effects & Treatment Options: Learn to
identify the signs of hearing loss and the treatment options
that can potentially provide long-term benefits to your
quality of life. An Audiologist from Hearing Professionals
will discuss how hearing loss affects your relationships,
emotions and overall physical wellbeing. Information on
the latest technology, treatment options and communication
strategies will be covered at the conclusion of the presenta-
tion. Please have your questions ready, answers will be provided. To sign up for this free presenta-
tion call 301-737-5670, ext. 1658 or stop by the reception desk.
New beginning
20
In Charlotte Hall 301-475-4002
NORTHERN Senior Activity Center
CSM Wellness Clinic Northern Senior Activity Center
Tuesday, March 1, 9-11:30 a.m., Free
The College of Southern Maryland’s Nursing Program will provide
a free wellness clinic at the Northern Senior Activity Center. Health
checks include blood pressure, height and weight, heart rate, and
memory assessment. Presentations on Shingles, Lyme Disease,
Memory Loss, Indicator to Consider Giving Up Driving (causes and
why/when to give up), and Seasonal Affective Disorder will be
provided. Drop-ins are welcome; prior sign up is not required.
Wii Bowling Tournament Northern Senior Activity Center
Fridays, March 4-May 13, 8:30-11:30 a.m., $10
The Northern Senior Activity Center Council will
manage our Wii Bowling League starting on March
4 and continuing for six consecutive Fridays
(excluding 3/25, 4/22, and 5/6). Participants will be
paired up and can play with their partner anytime
between 8:30-11:30 a.m. Cost for the tournament is
$10 and is collected at signup. All monies will be
used for the recognition day following the end of
the tournament on May 13. For more information,
call 301-475-4002, ext. *3101.
SMART Medicine Presentation Northern Senior Activity Center, Monday, March 7, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Free
St. Mary’s County Department of Aging and Human Services would like to invite the 50+ year
old community to the Northern Senior Activity Center for a SMART Medicine presentation on
Monday, March 7, 10:30-11:30 a.m. SMART Medicine is a local media campaign designed to
generate awareness for the rising issue of opioid misuse and abuse in addition to providing
information and resources regarding the safe management and disposal of prescription medica-
tions. The Department of Aging and Human Services looks forward to meeting with communi-
ty members to share our knowledge and resources.
We are committed to ensuring that prescription
medication is used only to help, not harm. Please
contact Maryellen Kraese at
301-475-4200, ext. *1681, to learn more.
(NOTE: New phone system requires a * before
extension)
March-april 2016
21
Northern Breakfast Café
What a wonderful way to start your day! Make your reserva-
tion for a delicious staff prepared breakfast with friends and
let us do the cooking and cleanup. Space is limited so advance
sign-up is required. The cost, $2 is due at sign-up.
Wednesdays at 9 a.m.
Mar. 16: Sausage Gravy, Biscuits, Home Fries, Fruit
Apr. 13: Pancakes, Sausage, Fruit
Jewelry Workshop Northern Senior Activity Center
Mondays, March 7, 21 & April 4, 1-3 p.m., $5 per class
Learn how to make custom, stylish pieces at a jewelry workshop taught
by Sue Peters. Sue will provide instruction and materials on how to make
a new piece at each class. Pieces will include: memory wire bracelet,
earrings, and necklace. The cost of each class is $5 and is due at sign-up.
Advanced sign-up is required as space is limited. To learn more or to
check class availability, call 301-475-4002, ext. *3101.
Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention Northern Senior Activity Center
Tuesdays, March 8-April 12, 10 a.m., Free
This evidenced-based program is designed to help reduce pain,
improve balance, and promote total body wellness. It is beneficial
for people with all levels of Tai Chi experience and is ideal for
those who are interested in learning more about this art. Clas-
ses are on six consecutive Wednesdays. Space is limited so
advanced sign-up is required. To sign up for this free class,
call 301-475-4002, ext. *3101.
Beauty Bazaar Northern Senior Activity Center
Friday, April 1, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Vendor Items for Sale
Spring is the time to revamp your beauty regimen and bring
out those bright pastels of the season. Come join us for a day
of pampering and beauty. See all of the newest spring trends in
clothing, makeup, and skin care. The bazaar is free to attend
and will feature beauty vendors with special deals, samples,
and demos for participants. There will also be a fashion show
using volunteer models. Lunch for the event will consist of
Tossed Salad with Dressing, Chicken Parmesan with Tomato
Sauce, Spaghetti Noodles, Broccoli, Italian Bread and
Margarine, Fresh Orange Slices, and 1% Milk. For lunch,
donations are accepted from seniors 60 and older; $6 for
others. To sign up call 301-475-4002, ext. *3101.
New beginning
22
AARP Smart Driving Course Northern Senior Activity Center, Tuesday, April 5, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Lunch at 11:30 a.m.
$15 AARP Members, $20 Non-Members
This course includes proven safety strategies that mature drivers can use to compensate for
changes as they age allowing them to drive more safely and confidently for as long as possible.
The fee for the class is $15 for AARP members and $20 for non-members with cash or check
made payable to AARP. Class is 4 hours with a break for lunch at 11:30 a.m. Payment to
AARP is required at advanced sign up to secure a place in class. Lunch is to be reserved in
advance and donation made the day of class. Lunch is a donation from seniors 60 and older; $6
for others. To learn more or sign up for lunch, call 301-475-4002, ext. *3101.
Natural Lighting Photography Workshop Northern Senior Activity Center
Monday, April 11, 10:30-11:30 a.m., $10
Some Camera Knowledge Required
Have you always wanted to learn how to take high-quality
portraits, but don’t have expensive lighting like the pros?
No need! Learn how to take portraits using natural lighting
both inside and outside with your camera. Professional
photographer Beth Graeme will teach you how to use the
settings on your camera and the lighting of the environment
to take high-quality portraits. Some camera knowledge is
required so that you can navigate the settings on your de-
vice. Please no cell phones or smart devices; class is intend-
ed for cameras only. Space is limited so advanced sign up is
required. The cost of the class is $10 and is due at sign-up.
For more information, call 301-475-4002, ext. *3101.
EFT Workshop Northern Senior Activity Center, Monday, April 18, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Free
EFT stands for Emotional Freedom Techniques (sometimes called Tapping); it is used to stimu-
late certain meridian points on the body by tapping on them with our fingertips. This innovative
tapping tool has proven useful in clinical settings for a variety of emotional, physical, and
performance issues. Come join us to learn the basics of using EFT to reduce symptoms and
enhance performance. Step-by-step instruction will be provided about how to incorporate tap-
ping into your life. Workshop is led by Gini Webster, LCSW-C, who has been trained by the
Association for Comprehensive Energy Psychology (ACEP) in Advanced Levels of EFT. Space
is limited so advanced sign-up is required, by calling 301-475-4002, ext. *3101.
Paper Tray Basket Northern Senior Activity Center
Monday, April 18 & 25, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., $35
Whether it is holding papers or a casserole dish, this 9” x 12” basket offers
a stylish and functional solution to your organizing woes. The colored
reeds will help personalize this basket so it can fit with any décor. The
cost of the kit and instruction is $35. Instruction to make the basket is
covered in a two-session class on Monday, April 18 and Friday, the 22nd.
Advanced sign-up is required and payment is due at signup. To learn more
call 301-475-4002, ext. *3101.
March-april 2016
23
Stewards of the Earth As part of the Northern Senior Activity Center’s efforts to be ‘Stewards of the Earth,’ we are
celebrating Earth Day with a variety of activities.
“Planet Earth” DVD Series Northern Senior Activity Center
Friday, April 22, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Free
To celebrate the beauty and wonder of our planet, we will
show BBC’s award-winning series “Planet Earth” all Earth
Day for drop-in viewings in our Craft Room. Natural
snacks will be provided at the beginning of the day for
viewers and can be taken on a first-come basis, therefore
quantities are limited. Drop-ins are welcome; prior sign up
is not required.
Earth Day Bingo Friday, April 22, 10-11:30 a.m., $3
Win environmentally-friendly prizes
during Earth Day Bingo! Prizes will
feature gardening supplies, organic foods, and other natural, biodegrada-
ble products. Be part of the solution and have fun at the same time! Space
is limited so advanced sign up is required. Payment of $3 is due at sign-
up; advanced sign-up required. To learn more call
301-475-4002, ext. *3101.
Lunch for Earth Day will be Chicken Caesar Salad with
Romaine Lettuce and Grilled Chicken Strips, Chick Peas,
Caesar Dressing, Whole Wheat Dinner Roll, Fresh Apple
Slices, Orange Juice, and 1% Milk. Lunch cost is a donation
from seniors 60 and older, $6 for others. To sign up for
lunch call 301-475-4002, ext. *3101.
Tai Chi Reunion Friday, April 22, 1-2 p.m., Free
Come feel the healing energy that can only come from doing
Tai Chi with friends. This Tai Chi Reunion is open to all par-
ticipants that have learned the Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall
Prevention Core Movements and Extended Movements. Brush
up on your Tai Chi skills and meet new people. Drinks and
natural snacks will be provided to enjoy during the mid-session
break. Space is limited so advanced sign up is required. To
sign up, call 301-475-4002, ext. *3101.
(Northern Senior Activity Center Continues, over)
New beginning
24
Garvey Senior Activity Center Council, Inc. The Garvey Senior Activity Center Council was formed in July 2015 to
support the Garvey Senior Activity Center. Its purpose is fund-raising to
support the Garvey Senior Activity Center and to serve as a public
advocate to promote the general interest, healthy mind, body and spirit,
welfare and social interaction among seniors (50 and older) of St. Mary’s
County at the Garvey Senior Activity Center. Anyone interested in learn-
ing more or becoming involved should contact the Garvey Senior Activity
Center at 301-475-4200, ext. *1050 or attend a council meeting. Upcom-
ing meetings are held on Wednesdays, March 2 & April 6 from 1-3 p.m.
at the Garvey Senior Activity Center.
LIFE (Learning is ForEver) The Spring Semester of the LIFE (Learning is
ForEver) program is gearing up for many interesting
and enjoyable tours. Join us for a trolley tour of
Fredericksburg, tour the College Park Aviation
Museum, enjoy a walking tour of Arlington National
Cemetery, Brookside Gardens, Annapolis and
more!! Booklets are now available on-line at
stmarysmd.com/docs/Brochure.pdf or at a senior
activity center near you. Register soon as many
tours fill quickly. For more information, call
Alice Allen at 301-475-4200, ext. *1063.
Northern's Arthritis Exercise Class
Schedule Changes
Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10-10:45 a.m., Free
The Northern Senior Activity Center will have the
Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program (AFEP)
classes on Wednesdays and Thursdays in the Great
Room at 10 a.m. effective March 2016. The 10 a.m.
time remains the same as in the past, but day and
room changes have been adjusted to better accommodate this growing class. Both sesions will
have a range of motion, posture, and some endurance exercises. In addition to these, the
Wednesday class will feature a strength training component and Thursday's class will feature
additional endurance exercises. To learn more about this program, call 301-475-4002, ext.
*3103.
March-april 2016
25
“Working to Form a More Perfect Union: Honoring
Women in Public Service and Government”
The St. Mary’s County Commission for Women will host the 2016 Woman of the Year and
2016 Tomorrow’s Woman awards event. Winners will be announced and nominees recognized
at the Commission’s annual Women’s History Month Banquet on Wednesday, March 16, 2016,
at the Southern Maryland Higher Education Center,
44219 Airport Road, California, Maryland.
The Woman of the Year award is for exemplary com-
munity service while the Woman of Tomorrow award
recognizes a high school-aged, young woman for
exemplary community service.
Tickets to the March 16 banquet are $30 per person and
includes dinner. Reservations must be made by March
8, 2016.
In addition to recognizing women in the community, the
banquet benefits the Jane Hale Sypher Scholarship at
the College of Southern Maryland and other educational
endeavors within the community. The scholarship supports a non-traditional student who is a
single parent or displaced homemaker.
For more information contact Chairwoman Diane Danaher at 301-475-4200, ext. *1680 or via
email to [email protected].
The way to a healthy heart
is as close as your local
Senior Activity Center… (see page 35 to contact us)
New beginning
26
role RSVP women volunteers play, they are making important, valuable, and significant contributions to our community. So let’s take time to thank the women in our lives for all they do to make our world a better place to live!
Retired and Senior Volunteer Program By Norine Rowe, RSVP Project Manager
NATIONAL WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH
In honor of National Women’s History Month in March, we want to honor all the women volunteers who serve with RSVP throughout the year. Did you know that almost three-quarters of RSVP volunteers are women? That’s a testament to the tradition and legacy of service so many women exemplify in our homes, families, churches, and community at large. RSVP women volunteers serve in so many ways. Whether helping to distribute groceries at a food pantry, caring for Hospice patients, or visiting Veterans, RSVP women volunteers are on the front lines of service. Many also serve behind the scenes, working hard without fanfare to get the job done. They knit hundreds of handmade items to give to persons in need. They answer office phones and help with administrative tasks. They plant gardens, maintain outdoor spaces, and install beautification projects. Others are at the forefront, leading exer-cise classes and educational tours, training volun-teer tax aides, or chairing committees. Whatever
NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK
April 10-16, 2016
In April, we celebrate National Volunteer
Week and all the wonderful volunteers
who are part of RSVP, both men and
women. Where would we be without all
of our senior volunteers who keep local
non-profits running, our Senior Activity
Centers humming with activity, our offices operating, our museums
open? So much that happens in our community would not be possible
without our senior volunteers. We thank you for your service!
March-april 2016
27
Thursday, March 10, at the Dr. James A. Forrest
Career and Technology Center in Leonardtown,
directly across from the county fairgrounds. Doors open
at 10 a.m. for registration, the awards ceremony begins at 11 a.m., and the luncheon banquet
follows directly afterward. We look forward to seeing you there!
Another Successful Year for RSVP Volunteers! RSVP volunteers served more than 34,000 hours
in 2015 valued at more than $900,000! Pictured
here is Commissioner President Guy proudly dis-
playing the large check we presented to him last
year at our Volunteer Awards Banquet. All we can
say is, he better make room in his office for
another big check this year!
Remember the Date: Volunteer Recognition
Ceremony & Awards Banquet March 10
We want to remind all our volunteers who
registered for our RSVP Volunteer Awards
Banquet that this year’s event is being held on
Special Notice Regarding Parking at Awards Banquet
Our Volunteer Banquet takes place during the school day while students are still at the Tech
Center and parked in the front parking lot. Awards Banquet attendees will need to park in the
rear parking lot of the Tech Center. We will have directional signs and parking lot attendants
to help direct attendees to our event parking location. Vans staffed by Department of Aging &
Human Services personnel will also be available to provide transportation services from the
parking area to the event entrance.
Awards Banquet and Possible Wintry Weather
There is a chance snow could affect our Volunteer Awards
Banquet as this year’s event is being held earlier in March than
usual. If we do have a snow event and public schools are closed,
our Banquet will have to be rescheduled. However, if there is a delay in
public school openings, it’s possible our event can take place. In the case of
snow, please check the Public Schools website for information. Also, you can
visit our Department of Aging & Human Services website at www.stmarysmd.com/aging/ for
event status, or you can call 301-737-5670, ext. 1653, for a voice mail
message with event information. Here’s hoping we have
bright, sunny skies and we’re able to proceed as scheduled!
To learn about volunteer opportunities for seniors 55+, call RSVP at 301-737-5670, ext. 1653, or e-mail
New beginning
28
TRIPS:
Summer
New York City Tour July 14-17, 2016
$1,565 per person,
(double occupancy)
Having visited NYC several times in December, this time we’ll take on “The Big Apple” in
July! Join us for four days/three nights as we explore some famous areas of the city in the
summertime. This trip includes: 3 nights accommodations at the Holiday Inn North Bergen,
New Jersey or similar hotel, just outside of New York City; 3 dinners; Carmine’s, Katz Deli
and Virgil’s BBQ; breakfast buffet at the hotel each morning; Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty
Tour, including ferry to Ellis Island and audio tour and admission to the “pedestal” of the
Statue of Liberty; Broadway show; Guided East Village Walking Food Tour; Luxury coach
Guided Bus Tour of NYC, including Ground Zero; all taxes, tips and gratuities; snacks on the
bus both ways, and 2 bottles of water per day/per person to help you stay hydrated in the sum-
mer heat. Optional travel insurance is available for an additional $125. Call Shellie Graziano at
301-737-5670, ext. 1655 to learn more, including payment options. This trip is limited to 18
travelers. Your spot is reserved when your $565 deposit is received.
*Please note this trip includes activities which require a strong degree of mobility.
The Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and Food & History Tours are all walking activities.
March-april 2016
29
Location Title Instructor Day(s) Time Cost
Garvey Senior
Activity Center
Leonardtown
301-475-4200,
ext. *1050
Intermediate
Quilting
Louise Park 1st & 3rd
Fridays
9:30 a.m. Supplies
Loffler Senior
Activity Center
Great Mills
301-737-5670,
ext. 1658
Needle
Crafters
Audrey Hanie Mondays &
Thursdays
10-11:30
a.m.
Free
Decorating
Committee
Shellie Graziano 1st & 3rd
Mondays
2 p.m. Free
Appliqué
Jewelry
Judith Nelson
Sue Peters
Mondays
Call for dates
1 p.m. Free
Independent
Art
Art Classes
Jamie Naluai
Jamie Naluai
2nd & 4th
Fridays
Tuesdays
10 a.m.-noon
10 a.m.-noon
Supplies
$85/4 wks
Honey Bee
Quilters
Jan Goings 1st & 3rd
Wednesdays
10 a.m.-noon Free
Needle &
Thread
Self-directed Thursdays 9 a.m.-noon Free
Project Linus
Monthly Craft
Wood Carving
Debbie Rumple
Audrey Haynie
W. & M. Brown
3rd Fridays
1st Fridays
Tuesdays
10 a.m.
10 a.m.
1 p.m.
Free
Supplies
Supplies
Northern Senior
Activity Center
Charlotte Hall
301-475-4002,
ext. *3101
Form-A-Line
Cards
Linda Wright Mondays 1 p.m. $5
Simply Crafty Self-directed Daily Open Free
Whimsie
Works Pottery
Pam King 2nd & 4th
Mondays
1:30 p.m. Fee
Quilting Gina Alexander 2nd & 4th
Wednesdays
12:30 p.m. Free
Dynamic
Ceramics
Nancy Norris Wednesdays 9:30 a.m.-
noon
Fee
Open Pottery
Studio
Self-directed Mondays &
Fridays
9 a.m. Free
Northern Stars
Theater Group
Rachel Mowatt (Coming in
2016)
1 p.m. Free
Ongoing Creative Expressions
New beginning
30
Ongoing Social Events at the Northern Senior Activity Center
Location Title Day(s) Time Cost
Northern Senior
Activity Center
Charlotte Hall
301-475-4002,
ext. *3101
“Bring Your Buddy”
Billiards
Mondays, Tuesdays
Wednesdays
Thursdays
No Fridays
Before 11 a.m.
Before 1 p.m.
After 3 p.m.
Free
Hand & Foot 4th Tuesday 12:30 p.m. Free
“Oh, Heck” Tuesdays and Fridays 9:30 a.m. Free
Double Pinochle Tuesdays
Fridays
11 a.m.
Noon
Free
Breakfast Café Varies (see pg. 23) 9 a.m. $2
Western Mahjong Wednesdays 1 p.m. Free
Eastern Mahjong Thursdays 1 p.m. Free
Pitch Tournament TBD 5 week sessions 12:30 p.m. $10
Bridge Thursdays 10 a.m. Free
Bingo Fridays 10 a.m. $2
Wearing of the Green: A St. Patrick’s Day
celebration will be held from 11a.m.-1:30 p.m. on Thursday,
March 17 at the Loffler Senior Activity Center. Wear your
green; enjoy an Irish lunch and a hour of live IRISH
music by David Norris during the lunch hour. For your
Irish Lunch, enjoy Irish Stew, Irish Soda Bread, Steamed
Cabbage and a Fruit Tart in a Graham Cracker Crust. There
may be a bit of Tom Foolery after the entertainment ends, so bring your
sense of humor! Advance tickets are required, $7 suggested donation. A
limited number of tickets will be sold, and only ticket holders will be able to
have lunch at Loffler on this day. Tickets are on sale at the Loffler Senior
Activity Center. Call 301-737-5670, ext. 1658.
March-april 2016
31
Ongoing Social Events at the Garvey and Loffler Senior Activity Centers
Location Title Day(s) Time Cost
Garvey Senior
Activity Center
Leonardtown
301-475-4200,
ext. *1050
Bingo 1st & 3rd Mondays 10 a.m.-noon $1-3
Billiards Call for availability 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Free
Pitch Mon., Wed. & Fri. 10 a.m.-noon Free
Senior Vibes 1st Tuesday 9:30-11:30 a.m. Free
Bridge Club Thursdays 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
(call for info)
Free
Loffler Senior
Activity Center
Great Mills
301-737-5670,
ext. 1658
Pinochle Mon., Wed. & Fri. 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free
Canasta/Pitch Club Tuesdays 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Free
Contract Bridge Tuesdays 10 a.m.-noon Free
Bingo
Wednesdays
Mar. 9 & Apr. 13
12:30-1:30 p.m.
$1 per
card to 3
Bingo Tuesdays
Mar. 1, 15, 22, 29
Apr. 2, 19, & 26
12:30-1:30 p.m. $1 per
card to 3
Canasta & More Wednesdays 1-4 p.m. Free
Puzzles Daily 9-Noon Free
Polish Poker & Pitch Wednesdays 10 a.m. Free
Hand & Foot Every Thursday 2 p.m. Free
New beginning
32
Ongoing Physical Fitness Activities At Garvey and Loffler Centers
* F.C. = Fitness Card,
available at all Senior
Activity Centers. The
first session of activities
is a free trial, with F.C.
required thereafter.
*F.C. = Fitness Card,
available at all Senior
Activity Centers. The first
session of activities is a
free trial, with F.C.
required thereafter.
Location Title Day(s) Time Cost
Fitness Equipment Daily 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Free
Wii Sports Call for availability 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Free
Men’s Strength
Training
Mondays &
Thursdays
9:30-10:30 a.m. F.C.
EnhanceFitness Mon., Wed., Fri. 10:45-11:45 F.C.
Open Table Tennis Tuesdays except 1st.
Thursdays
10 a.m.-noon
2:15 p.m.
Free
Arthritis Foundation
Exercise
Tuesdays &
Thursdays
8:45-9:20 a.m. Free
Yoga For Everyone Tuesdays & Fridays 1:05-2:05 p.m. F.C.
Line Dancing Wednesdays 1:30-2:30 p.m. Free
Exercise for
Parkinson’s Disease
Thursdays 1:15-2 p.m. Free
Zumba Thursdays 10:45-11:45 a.m. F.C.
Zumba Toning Fridays 9:30-10:30 a.m. F.C.
Video Aerobics Fridays 8:30-9:30 a.m. Free
Loffler Senior
Activity Center
Great Mills
301-737-5670,
ext. 1658
Fitness Equipment
Available
Daily 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Free
Wii Sports Daily 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Free
Zumba Mondays Noon F.C.
Walking Club Mon., Wed. & Fri. 9 a.m. Free
Arthritis Foundation Mondays & Fridays 1-2 p.m. Free
EnhanceFitness Mondays & Fridays
Wednesdays
2 p.m.
1 p.m.
F.C.
Strength Training Tuesdays, Thursdays 10-11 a.m. F.C.
Yoga Mon.,Wed., Fri. 9:50-11 a.m. F.C.
Yoga Thursdays 8:50-10 a.m. F.C.
Line Dance Fridays 11 a.m. Free
Tai Chi for Arthritis Mondays, Thursdays 11 a.m. Free
Garvey Senior
Activity Center
Leonardtown
301-475-4200,
ext. *1050
March-april 2016
33
Ongoing Physical Fitness Activities At The Northern Senior Activity Center
We’ll Read to You; Audio Version of the New
Beginning Newsletter and Calendars are Online Thanks to volunteer reader, Barbara Homan, an audio version of
this bi-monthly New Beginning newsletter is available on the Depart-
ment of Aging website. To have New Beginning read to you, go to
the web page www.stmarysmd/aging. Click on Community
Programs, or click on “Bi-monthly Newsletter” under “Quick Links.”
This will take you to past newsletters, and you can click on the issue you want to read, or
click on the speaker icon to the right of the monthly edition you want to have read to you.
Call 301-475-4200, ext. *1073 to learn more about this audio availability.
Additional volunteer readers and those proficient in other languages are particularly
welcome; the time commitment is approximately two hours on a bi-monthly basis.
You can also view the Senior Activity Center monthly calendars by going to
www.stmarysmd.com/aging and clicking on the “Loffler Activities Calendar,” the
“Northern Activities Calendar,” or the “Garvey Activities Calendar.”
* F.C. = Fitness
Card, available at all
Senior Activity
Centers. The first
session of activities is
a free trial, with F.C.
required thereafter.
Location
Northern Senior
Activity Center
Charlotte Hall
301-475-4002,
ext. *3101
Title Day(s) Time Cost
Fitness Equipment
Available
Daily 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Free
Wii Sports Daily Noon-5 p.m. Free
Walking on
Three Notch Trail
Daily Open Free
Yoga For Everyone Mondays &
Alternating Fridays
9 a.m.
8 a.m.
F.C.
Total Body Strength Mondays 2-3 p.m. F.C.
Zumba Tuesdays 10-11 a.m. F.C.
Arthritis Foundation
Exercise
Wednes
days &
Thursdays
10-10:45 a.m. Free
EnhanceFitness Tues. & Thurs.,
Saturdays
9-10 a.m.
9:30-10:30 a.m. F.C.
Line Dancing Wednesdays 1-2:30 p.m. Free
Regular Bike Riding Daily Open Free
YES cycling Appointment Scheduled Times Free
Regulation Horseshoes (Call)
Tai Chi for Arthritis Wed. & Fri. 10 a.m. Free
New beginning
34
Ongoing Education Classes
Sign Up Online to Receive New Beginning
You can sign up to receive a notification when the newsletter
is available online in PDF format via stmarysmd.com/citizen/signup.asp
This link will also allow you to sign up for news releases and emergency
alerts. The newsletter can also be viewed on the Department of Aging
website, stmarysmd.com/aging/.
If you choose to receive the newsletter via e-mail or view online rather
than mailing, contact Community Programs and Outreach at 301-475-4200,
ext. *1073.
Location Title Instructor Day(s) Time Cost
Garvey Senior
Activity Center
Leonardtown
301-475-4200,
ext. *1050
Book Discussion Kathy Mather 2nd Wednesday 10:30 a.m. Free
Loffler Senior
Activity Center
Great Mills
301-737-5670,
ext. 1658
Current Events Dave Spore Mondays 10 a.m. Free
Scripture Study Solomon Olumese 2nd & 4th Fri. 10 a.m. Free
Computer Tutor Volunteer Daily By appt. Free
Northern Senior
Activity Center
Charlotte Hall
301-475-4002,
ext. *3101
Page Turners
Book Club
Gloria Fusco 4th Monday 1 p.m. Free
Lyme Disease
Support &
Discussion Group
MarieNoelle
Lautieri
TBD 1 p.m. Free
Book Chatter Joyce Summers 4th Thursday 11 a.m. Free
Senior Matters Rita Blyler 1st & 3rd Tues. 10:45 a.m. Free
March-april 2016
35
St. Mary’s County Department of Aging & Human Services At A Glance Lori Jennings-Harris, Director
Aging & Disability Resource Center/Maryland Access Point-Your link to health and support
services, providing older adults, persons with disabilities and caregivers with a single point of
entry. Access to information and referrals to services, options counseling, support for care-
givers, and more, are provided through the ADRC/MAP. Call 301-475-4200, ext. *1050 for
information.
Senior Information and Assistance (Senior I&A)-Provides important updated information
as it relates to senior services, benefits, and assistance programs. You may reach Debbie
Barker, Program Manager, at 301-475-4200, ext. *1064 or Melissa Craig at 301-475-4002,
ext. *1004, or 301-737-5670, ext. 1654.
Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS)-Consists of multiple programs providing the
following services: Guardianship for individuals age 65 and over, Medicaid-funded community-
based services, Long-Term Care Ombudsman, Senior Care Program, Respite Assistance and
Caregiver Support. Call Rebecca Kessler, Division Manager, at 301-475-4200, ext. *1061.
Senior Activity Centers-The three county senior activity centers are places where adults age
50 and over who are independent and active can participate in activities, events, exercise
programs, and group meal programs. Call Alice Allen, Division Manager, at 301-475-4200,
ext. *1063.
Home Delivered Meals-A service for seniors 60 and over who are homebound and have a
moderate to severe disability which prevents them from shopping or cooking for themselves,
and who have no one to prepare meals. Program Coordinator Monika Williams can be reached
at 301-475-4200, ext. *1060.
Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP)-Offering persons 55 years of age or older an
opportunity to donate their time, talents, enthusiasm, and expertise in the local community. Call
301-737-5670, ext. 1653.
Senior Rides Program-A program which connects individuals who meet certain criteria and
need transportation to important events and appointments with pre-screened, trained volunteer
drivers. Call 301-475-4200, ext. *1066 for more information.
Community Programs & Outreach-Communicates timely and topical information to the sen-
ior community through a bi-monthly newsletter, website updates, local and state-wide events,
and local media. To receive the bi-monthly newsletter, call 301-475-4200, ext. *1073.
Human Services-Areas of responsibility of the Division of Human Services include: services
provided to citizens with mental health needs; substance abuse treatment and prevention options
including outpatient and residential options; supportive services for children and youth; and
social, educational, and recreational activities to children and families. Call 301-475-4200,
ext.*1849.
Website: www.stmarysmd.com/aging Fax: 301-475-4503
Phone: 301-475-4200, ext. *1050
Address: 41780 Baldridge Street, P.O. Box 653, Leonardtown, MD 20650 (Please send donations and correspondence to the Post Office Box.)
Senior Activity Centers:
Garvey Senior Activity Center, 301-475-4200, ext. *1050
41780 Baldridge St., Leonardtown, MD, 20650
Loffler Senior Activity Center, 301-737-5670, ext. 1658
21905 Chancellor’s Run Rd., Great Mills, MD 20634
Northern Senior Activity Center, 301-475-4002, ext. *3101
29655 Charlotte Hall Rd., Charlotte Hall, MD, 20622
New beginning
36
St. Mary’s County Department of Aging & Human Services 41780 Baldridge Street P.O. Box 653, Leonardtown, MD 20650
CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE
PAID Leonardtown, MD
20650 PERMIT NO. 102
Holiday Closings... (Also, no Home-Delivered Meals)
Good Friday, March 25, 2016