Aging Calendar
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Medicare Minute
Garvey Senior Activity Center
9 a.m.
Wednesday, July 26
Medicare and Home Health Care-Understand what home health care is, know when Medicare will cover home health care, understand what it means to be homebound.
Wednesday, August 30
Medicare Enrollment Periods-Know when to sign up for Medicare for the first time, when you can make changes to your Medicare, and how to be aware of medical identity theft.
Wednesday, Sept. 27
Speaking With Your Doctor-Understand how to communicate well with your health care provider, know your rights if a provider does not think your care will be covered, and identify billing errors.
Wednesday, Oct. 25
Fall Open Enrollment-Know the changes you can make during Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period, review your current coverage, how to make changes to your Medicare health and drug coverage.
Wednesday, Nov. 29
How to Afford Prescription Drug Costs-Understand the Extra Help program and if you may be eligible, learn if your state has a State Pharmaceutical Assistance Program, using other strategies and programs to save on drug costs.
Wednesday, Dec. 20
Medicare and Mental Health-Understand how Medicare covers outpatient mental health services, prescription drugs for mental health treatment, and inpatient mental health services.
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Crafts with Cat
Garvey Senior Activity Center
Wednesdays & Thursdays at 6 p.m.
Join the evening Program Specialist, Cat Prophet to do fun arts and crafts! Each week will be a different craft. Advanced registration is required.
The crafts for September are:
September 6 – Diamond painted coasters - $12
September 13 – Pouring Paint - $10
September 20 – Stencil Art - $5
September 27 – Beginner Fine Arts Acrylics: Autumn Forest - $15
The crafts for October are:
October 4 – Wire wrapped crystal pendants - $15
October 11 – Floral petals wall decoration - $10
October 19 – Button Art Candy Corn - $10
October 26 – Beginner Fine Arts Acrylics: Fall-themed Still Life - $15
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Art Pottery: Herb Bowl
Northern Senior Activity Center
Fridays, September 8 & 22, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Cost: $10
Pottery craftswoman, Pam King, will instruct how to craft a hand-built herb bowl! This is an absolute must in the kitchen if you often cook with herbs. The bowl will feature three different-sized holes to pull herbs through. This quickly strips leaves, making them ready to chop or toss in your favorite recipe.
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Stronger Memory
Northern Senior Activity Center
Mondays, September 18-October 30 (6 sessions, No class October 9), 11-11:30 a.m.
Cost: Free
This is a program designed to improve your memory by stimulating your prefrontal cortex using simple activities - math, reading aloud, and writing. The activities are done at home - 20-30 minutes of daily work recommended. Participants will meet weekly on Mondays for a 30-minute group check-in with Keilan Ruppert, Program Specialist. (Please email Keilan at keilan.ruppert@stmaryscountymd.gov if you are unable to attend a session). All materials will be provided including a workbook, timer, and composition book for journaling activities. Due to a generous grant, there is no cost to participate.
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Autumn Kickoff with The Bushmill Band
Loffler Senior Activity Center
2:30 -2:30 p.m.
Cost: $3
The first day of autumn lands on a Friday this year. What better way to spend that afternoon than with live music provided by a local favorite - The Bushmill Band! Enjoy some snacks to nibble on from our concession table while you sit back, relax, visit with your friends, and enjoy the Bluegrass and Gospel music these folks play so well! Register in advance at ww.stmaryscountymd.gov/aging or leave a message on our reservation line at 301-475-4200, ext. 1660. Please note– lunch is NOT part of this event. If you wish to have lunch here on this day, sign up beforehand in the usual manner.
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Meridians of the Body: Healthy Flow & Movement
Northern Senior Activity Center
2-4 p.m.
Cost: $20
Judi Lyons and Paty Massón are teaming up to instruct this 2-hour Energy Medicine Yoga & Qigong class! This informative and physical workshop, open to all skill levels, is an introduction to the 12 principal energetic channels in the body through which the life-energy known as “qi” or “chi” flows. Meridian fundamentals are blended with Energy Medicine and movement, in the forms of Yoga and Qigong, to restore optimum energy-flow, deter illness, and support radiant health & well-being.
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CBT Yoga to cope with Arthritis/Osteoarthritis: Healthy Joints, Healthy Bones!
Garvey Senior Activity Center
2 p.m.
Cost: $20
Come join Paty Masson as she guides you through this program. This is a 2-hour program. Participants will explore different yoga flows and breathing techniques to ease pain in stiff joints. “Lotion is Motion” concepts of Yoga for Arthritis. Meditations will inspire you to understand your inner wisdom and your own healing power using some personal mantras and a few Ayurvedic tips to improve joint health. Please wear comfortable clothing for this program. Advanced registration is required.
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Make & Take Projects with Jamie
Loffler Senior Activity Center
10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Cost: $25 Includes all materials
September’s project will be a colorful Autumn-inspired acrylic painting on wood. Advance registration and payment required.
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Art with Jamie
Loffler Senior Activity Center
Tuesdays at 10 a.m.
Cost: $25 per session
Linocut Printmaking - October 3, 10, 24, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
In October, join us as we learn Linocut Printmaking. We will learn the tools and tricks of the trade in simple yet beautiful fall designs. We will print on wood, paper and fabric. If you have ever wanted to learn the Linocut print blocking technique -here is your chance. All materials included. Advance registration and payment required.
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Discovering How Your Hips Hold Emotions
Garvey Senior Activity Center
2 p.m.
Cost: $20
Come join Paty Masson as she guides you through this program. This is a 2-hour program. Some information on the Yogic approach to healing hip problems. Participants will explore different yoga flows and breathing techniques to release tension or ease pain in the hips. Meditations will inspire you to understand their inner wisdom and your own healing power using some personal mantras and a few Ayurvedic tips regarding what to eat to improve hip health. Advanced registration is required.
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Iris Folding Craft
Garvey Senior Activity Center
1:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Welcome Fall by creating two Iris Folding cards ready for you to take home and add a personalized fall message. By arranging and layering strips of paper you will create a pumpkin and a turkey note card while learning the art of Iris Folding. Iris folding is done by arranging and layering strips of paper or fabric in a spiraled pattern resembling a camera lens's iris. Supplies will be provided, but feel free to bring your favorite scissors. Advanced registration is required.
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Loffler Book Club - “Starry Messenger”
Loffler Senior Activity Center
2 p.m.
In October, discuss “Starry Messenger” by Neil deGrasse Tyson
Becca Newton leads a friendly discussion on the first Friday of every month- everyone’s thoughts are appreciated. The Lexington Park Branch Library has been very helpful by holding several copies of the books for us. Contact Sheila.Graziano@stmaryscountymd.gov to learn more about joining this casual group.
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Waterford Fair Crafts & Historic Homes Tour - A Celebration of Americana
8:30 a.m.-7 p.m.
Cost: $90
Bus departs Loffler Senior Activity Center at 8:30 a.m., returns approximately 7 p.m.
Shop, play, tour and make memories during this 79-year-old tradition -- the Waterford Foundation's "Waterford Fair"! The Fair is the mid-Atlantic's quintessential fall festival demonstrating fine heritage & contemporary craft artisans, living historians, a juried art show, historic properties tours, local libations, talks & workshops, and entertainment for all ages. Located in the National Historic Landmark of Waterford, this unique village is situated in Western Loudoun County, Virginia.
Sponsored by St. Mary’s County Department of Aging & Human Services, the cost of this trip includes luxury motorcoach transportation, snack and water, all taxes and gratuities. Meals and libations consumed at the fair are on your own. 50 seats available - advance registration and payment required. For questions contact Sheila.Graziano@stmaryscountymd.gov.
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Wii Bowling League: Fall 2023
Northern Senior Activity Center
1-3:30 p.m.
Cost: $2
Ready to strike up a good time this Fall with your friends at the Center? Join us for this league-style Wii bowling event with staff-led teams and some fun, good ol’ group competition. There is no Wii Bowling on October 31 due to the Halloween dance event. The last game will take place on November 21. Individual and team prizes will be awarded on November 28.
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Watercolor with T.L. Ford
Garvey Senior Activity Center
1:30 p.m.
Cost: $25
Would you like to learn how to paint with watercolor on a smaller scale? Come join T.L. Ford of Cattail.Nu, LLC, as she teaches you the basics of watercolor painting in a relaxing, informal setting. In October, the project will be a fall leaf theme. No experience or drawing skills are necessary and everything you need is provided!
Advanced registration is required.
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Presented by Hope & Healing
Garvey Senior Activity Center
1 p.m.
Cost: $5 (suggested donation)
October: Caregiving Coping - Sandwich Generation
As we age life’s events can often become overwhelming, both mentally as well as physically. Especially during this time, it’s even more important to take care of your mental wellness. Advance sign-up is required and a suggested donation of $5 for each series is requested.
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Card Making Class
Garvey Senior Activity Center
6 p.m.
Cost: $4
Would you like to learn how to make handmade cards for your loved ones? Join us to learn different cards and card-making techniques. All materials will be provided and there will be an instructor to guide you. This class is beginner friendly and suitable for any skill level.
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Aromatherapy Workshops with Glori
Garvey Senior Activity Center
4 p.m.
Cost: $15
Join Licensed Mental Health Therapist and Certified Professional Aromatherapy Practitioner, Glori VanBrunt for some creative holistic fun! Advanced registration is required.
October - OUCH! Aromatherapy Workshop
Learn how Aromatherapy can support pain and inflammation related to joints, muscles, nerves, headaches, and more!
In this 60–90-minute workshop, you will:
• Learn about the art and science of aromatherapy,
• The benefits of using aromatherapy for managing pain and inflammation,
• Sample several essential oils
• Choose your favorite oils based on your specific "Ouch!"
• Create a custom aromatherapy blend to take home and use when needed!
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Book Discussion Group – “The Invention of Wings”
Garvey Senior Activity Center
11 a.m.
Cost: Free
We want you to join us. If you have a love for reading and are enthusiastic about sharing your thoughts about what you’ve read, this is the group for you.
October’s book is “The Invention of Wings” by Sue Monk Kidd.
This exquisitely written novel is a triumph of storytelling that looks with unswerving eyes at a devastating wound in American history, through women whose struggles for liberation, empowerment, and expression will leave no reader unmoved.
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Educational Videos
Loffler Senior Activity Center
10 a.m.
Cost: Free
“The Wolf that Changed America” (60 min.)
In 1893, a bounty hunter named Ernest Thompson Seton journeyed to New Mexico on a mission to kill a wolf, Lobo, as locals called him. The battle of wits between wolf and man would spark a real-life drama, the outcome of which would leave a lasting effect on a new and growing movement in America: wilderness preservation.
Register for these videos at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/aging. or leave a message on our reservation line at 301-475-4200, ext. 1660.
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AARP Safe Driving Class
Loffler Senior Activity Center
9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Cost: $20 for AARP Members, $25 for non-members
An AARP Safe-Driving course will be held at the Loffler Senior Activity Center on Thursday, October 12, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. (with an hour lunch break at 11:30). This program includes emphasis on roundabouts, pavement markings, stop-sign compliance, red-light running, and safety issues such as speeding, seat belt and turn signal use. Pre-registration is required at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/aging or leave a message on our reservation line at 301-475-4200, ext. 1660. If you wish to order a lunch from the center, the cost is $6 if you are under 60 and by donation for those 60+ years of age. Lunch can be reserved by calling 301-475-4200, ext. 1657.
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Basket Weaving: Pumpkin
Northern Senior Activity Center
10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Cost: $30
Experienced basket artisan, Pam King, will instruct how to weave a pumpkin-themed basket. This craft is perfect décor for the fall/spooky season!
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Community Health & Wellness Fair
University of Maryland Southern Maryland - 44219 Airport Road, California, MD
9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Community Health & Wellness Fair! Keep an eye on the website for more information - https://www.stmarysmd.com/aging/healthfair/!
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Community Health & Wellness Fair
University of Maryland at Southern Maryland—44219 Airport Rd, California, MD
9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Cost: Free
It’s that time of year again! Get ready for the 2023 Community Health & Wellness Fair!
This year’s screenings will include body composition, glucose, skin cancer, hearing, vision, and blood pressure. Licensed Massage Therapist Gwynne Hill with California Total Body Massage will be on site all day offering free 15-minute mini-massages. The Pharmacy at PJ Bean will be supplying flu shots and additional vaccinations. Bring your insurance card—all insurance agencies are accepted!
The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office and St. Mary’s County Health Department will be on-site to collect medications, including diabetic supplies such as needles, lancets, and EpiPens.
The Department thanks our many sponsors for this event, including The Pharmacy at PJ Bean, Mid-Atlantic Skin Surgery Institute, St. Mary’s Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, and Southern Maryland Foot & Ankle.
Do you want to skip the registration line? Register online at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/aging/healthfair! Online registrants will be eligible for a special prize! Online registration closes at 12 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 12.
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Nutrition Presentations by Donna Taggert
Loffler Senior Activity Center
Healthy Vegetarian Lifestyle - 10 a.m.
Cost- Free
Donna presents nutrition topics at the Loffler Senior Activity Center usually on the second Monday of each month at 10 a.m. Register for this talk by going to www.stmaryscountymd.gov/aging or leave a message on our reservation line at 301-475-4200, ext. 1660. Additionally - Donna offers free personal nutritional education at 11 a.m. on the day she is here if you make an appointment with her by text message or calling 240-538-6539.
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Sound Bath Meditation
Garvey Senior Activity Center
7 p.m.
Cost: $25
Join us for a full-body meditation experience that uses sound to create restorative relaxation to nurture your mind and body. After a few minutes of guided focus on the breath, the remainder of the experience is filled with different sounds introduced in succession, bathing the body with sound vibration. You will hear Chimes, Crystal, Tibetan Singing Bowls, and other instruments. Through this experience, you will discover the healing power of sound. Due to the 432Hz frequency used during sound baths, those with pacemakers should consult their physician prior to attending this practice. It is suggested you bring a small pillow & blanket to build your comfy nest. Advanced registration is required.
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Witch Ribbon Hat Door Hanger
Garvey Senior Activity Center
10 a.m.
Cost: $20
If you are looking for a cute door hanger for Halloween this is the perfect craft! Penny B. will be here to show you how to create this beautiful ribbon hat. All supplies and instructions are included. Advanced registration is required.
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Health Watch Series
Loffler Senior Activity Center
Strategies to Help with Depression - 9:30 a.m.
Cost: Free
In October, get some self-help tips for lifting yourself up when you are feeling down or depressed. Advance registration is required for these presentations. Go to www.stmaryscountymd.gov/aging or leave a message on our reservation line at 301-475-4200, ext. 1660.
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Floral Arranging with Sunnyside Florals
Garvey Senior Activity Center
1:30 p.m.
Cost: $45
Would you like a beautiful handmade arrangement for your home or to give to a loved one? Shelley Russell, owner, and lead designer of Sunnyside Florals will be instructing the class. Shelley grows her own flowers and plants locally here in Southern MD. Explore the basics of floral arrangement and design in this hands-on session with Shelley. Freshly cut, locally grown flowers and foliage, provided by the instructor, will be identified along with suggestions for their application in this project. All supplies provided. Take home a beautiful, finished bouquet to display or give away! Advanced registration is required.
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Breakfast Café with JustUs2 Band
Northern Senior Activity Center
9-10 a.m.
Cost: $5
Musical duo, JustUs2, will provide some lovely tunes during this month’s Breakfast Café. Enjoy delicious cream chipped beef, potato cakes, toast, and fresh fruit. Sip some coffee and listen to live music.
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Freedom Hearing Screenings
Northern Senior Activity Center
8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Did you hear? Dr. Becky Guy, Clinical Audiologist, of Freedom Hearing is visiting to provide free hearing screenings. Don’t miss out! Pre-registration is required to secure an appointment slot.
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Luncheon with the Bushmill Band
Garvey Senior Activity Center
Doors Open: 11:30 a.m.
Lunch Served: 12 p.m.
Performance: 12:30 p.m.
Come join us and enjoy the musical stylings of the local Bushmill Band. Their music will get your toe tapping and your hands clapping! Entertainment is sponsored by the Garvey Senior Activity Center Council, Inc. The cost for lunch is by donation for those ages 60 and above and $6 for those under the age of 60. Advanced registration is required.
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Northern Stars Movie Club: Alien (1979)
Northern Senior Activity Center
1-4 p.m.
Cost: Free
Get your snacks and popcorn ready! This monthly film club, led by Keilan Ruppert (Program Specialist), will explore classic and modern movies. The club will review each film based on specific criteria such as cinematography, editing, writing, and soundtrack. Ultimately, the group will assign a rating using 1 to 5 “Northern stars.” Join us at 1 p.m. for a showing of the 1979 classic sci-fi horror movie, Alien (1 hour 57 min), starring Sigourney Weaver & directed by Ridley Scott. A discussion period will immediately follow the film.
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Cognitive Function Yoga Session
Northern Senior Activity Center
2-3:30 p.m.
Cost: $15
Instructor, Judi Lyons, will lead this 90-minute workshop! Cognitive Function Yoga is an accessible yoga practice which improves multiple domains of cognitive function, including attention, processing speed, executive function, and memory. This engages both hemispheres of the brain using cross-lateral movements and coordination tasks – making it ideal for anyone who wishes to sharpen their mental function, as well as individuals with a history of traumatic brain injury (TBI) or stroke. Judi Lyons/Mindful Motions Md. is YACEP®, E-RYT® 200, EMYoga® Certified, RYT® 500 Therapeutic.
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Oh, Sugars! Cupcake Decorating Class
Garvey Senior Activity Center
10 a.m.
Cost: $15
Have you always wanted to learn how to decorate those yummy cupcakes you see at the store? In this beginner class, you will decorate 4 cupcakes with a Halloween holiday theme and create a logo for your yummy creations. All supplies are provided. Costs will be offset by the Garvey Senior Activity Center Council, Inc., and the Non-Profit Utility Grant. Advanced registration is required.
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Halloween Dance with DJ Psyborg
Northern Senior Activity Center
1-3:30 p.m.
Cost: $2
Happy Halloween! Wear your best costume and don’t forget your dancing shoes. Introducing, DJ Psyborg of Mosquito Cove Digital Magic Entertainment with a soundtrack for this fun-filled afternoon. Enjoy a great sound system, lights, and television screens with music videos & other exciting visuals. Be prepared to enter the costume contest for a chance to win a prize! Light refreshments will be served.
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Make & Take Projects with Jamie
Loffler Senior Activity Center
10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Cost: $25 Includes all materials
In October, get ready for Thanksgiving with a different style acrylic on wood painting. Advance registration and payment required.
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Loffler Halloween Party
Loffler Senior Activity Center
12:30-2 p.m.
Cost: $5
Let’s throw a party after lunch on the spookiest day of the year! Dancing, tricks, treats and of course, the ever-popular costume contest with several categories. The Halloween fun seems to keep getting better every year! Register in advance at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/aging or leave a message on our reservation line at 301-475-4200, ext. 1660. Please note- Lunch is NOT part of this event. If you wish to have lunch here on this day, sign up beforehand in the usual manner.
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Veterans Resource Day
University of Maryland Southern Maryland - 44219 Airport Road, California, MD
9 a.m.-2 p.m.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Veterans Resource Day! Keep an eye on the website for more information - https://www.stmarysmd.com/aging/veterans/!
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Loffler Book Club - “The Waterman’s Widow”
Loffler Senior Activity Center
2 p.m.
In November, discuss “The Waterman’s Widow” by Carol McCabe Booker
Becca Newton leads a friendly discussion on the first Friday of every month- everyone’s thoughts are appreciated. The Lexington Park Branch Library has been very helpful by holding several copies of the books for us. Contact Sheila.Graziano@stmaryscountymd.gov to learn more about joining this casual group.
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Coffee with the Sheriff
Garvey Senior Activity Center
10 a.m.
Talk to the sheriff about your concerns and learn more about the community during Coffee with the Sheriff!