‘Ride or die’
‘Ride or die’
Frederick man nears a 3,000-day streak of daily bicycle riding
Frederick man nears a 3,000-day streak of daily bicycle riding
Hinde
Jennifer Lee
Calendar Editor
Sue Guynn
Photographers
Ric Dugan
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Ray Gable rides his bicycle every day, regardless of the weather.
Staff photo by Ric Dugan
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‘Ride or die’
Frederick’s ‘Everyday Ray’ nears a 3,000-day streak of daily bicycle riding
BY JENNIFER LEE SPECIAL TO THE NEWS-POST
Aman, his bicycle and the open path before him. The journey begins, but will it ever end?
“Everyday Ray” sure hopes not.
As of Dec. 26, 2024, Frederick resident Ray Gable, known affectionately as “Everyday Ray,” has ridden his bicycle for 2,691 consecutive days.
He began riding at 6 years old and by the age of 22, he started riding much more frequently. He started tracking his miles, initially, on a calendar.
But riding became an obsession for Gable. The more he rode, the more his obsession grew.
What started as a target of 3,0005,000 miles a year has now been pushed to 500 miles per month — 6,000 miles annually.
“We all need an outlet to relieve [the] stressors in life, and riding helps me stay aware, focused,” Gable said, “like solving a puzzle daily.”
His obsession led him to purchase a total of six bikes, plus countless tires, tubes, repairs, jerseys, shorts and helmets in the past seven-plus years.
Gable owns two mountain bikes, one for snow and the other for the C&O Canal, one Seven bike for good weather days with no rain, snow or ice, one Trek bike that he rides on wet days, or when his Seven isn’t suited, and a Raleigh, his oldest bike, which he picked up at a police auction.
He posts daily idyllic pictures on his Instagram page, @cycleray, of his bicycle on his routes.
“I really enjoy finding the best picture that captures my day of riding,” Gable said.
It reads as a love story with his bicycle — how a man goes out alone and finds all the answers in the wild.
“Everyday Ray” hopes to inspire others to get out and ride, or at least to find their passion. For Gable, riding is his passion.
Staff photos by Ric Dugan
Ray Gable rides his bicycle every day, regardless of the weather.
He has ridden in 26 states but says his favorite place to ride is Frederick County, because it has “the best rolling hills, scenery and low-traffic roads.”
Gable’s rides typically go off without a hitch, but he has been in three major accidents on his bicycle since May 2001.
His first accident came when the crank arm on one of his bikes broke. This led his wife, Jenny, to remind him to make sure his bike is always maintained.
His second accident was 13 years ago. He was struck by a motorist who didn’t give him enough berth. He was knocked off his bike into a patch of poison ivy. This resulted in his first ambulance ride.
His third and most recent accident happened this past November and again required him to be taken to the hospital.
“He was knocked off his bicycle recently, after which he was taken by
ambulance to the hospital,” Andrew Flint, of The Frederick Pedalers Newsletter, said. “But he managed to ride the next day and kept his streak alive!”
Despite Gable’s attention to safety, accidents do happen. But his dedication to riding is intense; he was determined to get back on the bike the next day.
“The doctor at the hospital was like, ‘Don’t you need to wait anyway to see the condition of your bike?’”
Gable recalled. “And both Jenny and I chuckled. The doctor looked at both of us with a puzzled face.”
He had four other bikes at home he could ride.
Gable wasn’t going to give up his streak on account of this accident.
Safety is always at the forefront of Gable’s mind, and he always wears a helmet.
“If I didn’t have a helmet on when I rode [that day in November], I would have sustained a significant head in -
jury,” he said.
And he never listens to music while cycling, so he can pay attention to the cars around him. When riding on trails, he prefers to listen to the sounds of nature around him anyway.
The day after his second ambulance ride to the hospital, Gable hopped on his bike and rode, following his wife’s restrictions of only 5 miles each of the next two days. By the third day after his release from the hospital, he rode 20 miles.
“It helps me plan my day,” said Gable when asked why he rides every day. “I do it both for my physical and mental health.
“People should drive more cautiously,” he went on. “So often, cyclists are seen as vehicles on the road and many drivers don’t realize they need to take a wide berth around a cyclist.”
Gable stresses that drivers need to abide by the 3-foot law.
“Drivers should pretend someone
they care about is on the bike in front of them,” he said.
Gable’s wife shares this sentiment.
“I hope readers who are non-cyclists will always remember to share the road,” she said, “and that a cyclist has more to lose than they do.”
She now follows his rides on the Life360 app, so she can track his safe arrival home.
Jenny says she is not scared of his adventures, but “wants others to be aware that cyclists are out there.”
She isn’t obsessed with riding like her husband, but she does enjoy spending time with him, so that means she rides with him from time to time.
Gable is so obsessed about cycling, he even rode while he had COVID, just to continue his daily streak.
“My attitude is ride or die,” Gable said.
And he doesn’t plan to end his streak anytime soon.
Retired and Inspired FCC’s ILR offers courses that pique interest
BY GARY BENNETT SPECIAL TO THE NEWS-POST
Think back to your high school or college days. Do you fondly remember opening textbooks, considering issues and exploring the world through history and literature? I sure do. Back then, our brains were like sponges, soaking up every bit of information made available.
As we grow older, the pace of learning changes. Research shows that by the time we reach adulthood, many of us notice certain mental tasks, like quickly processing new information or tackling a complex problem, become more challenging. Scientists have identified physical changes in our brains that help explain this shift as we age.
But there’s good news: While the speed of learning might slow as we age, the ability to learn never stops. Research also shows that we can continue to expand our minds and acquire new skills as long as we’re willing to put in the effort.
COURSES FOR EVERYONE
Luckily for us, seniors in Frederick can rely upon the Institute for Learning in Retirement for a professionally organized and reliable destination for mature intellectual discovery.
ILR’s official mission is to “provide quality and accessible opportunities for intellectual stimulation and personal enrichment to retired adults.” It has been around since 1998 and is quite popular. Chances are, you have a taken a course or two yourself.
Kelli Ackiewicz, the ILR program manager and a civil engineer by trade, came on board in 2016. She jumped at the chance to lead this program after assisting with women-to-women mentoring
at FCC. She jokes that she helped “engineer some issues they had going on at the college” and then brought her prowess to ILR.
No one knows for sure how many Frederick County seniors have been served since 1998, but Ackiewicz did share that the Institute has served an average of 700 students annually over the past 10 years, resulting in more than 18,000 enrollments during this time. On average, students take about three courses per year.
Offered in conjunction with Frederick Community College and mostly on its campus, the Institute offers a wide range of diverse, college-style courses. Enroll
Linda Funsch instructs a class at the Institute for Learning in Retirement at FCC. (See FCC 16)
Staff photos by Ric Dugan
People take notes and listen during a class at the Institute for Learning in Retirement at FCC.
The great outdoors
HEALTH
As the average age for Frederick County residents increases, so does the need for caregiving
BY ED HINDE FREDERICK COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter is known for saying, “There are only four kinds of people in the world: those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers.” She believed that caregiving is a universal experience that affects everyone at some point in their lives.
Carter was a strong advocate for caregivers and believed that the government, academia and business sector should better understand the importance of caregivers. She also believed that caregivers should be able to find support without neglecting their own needs.
Caregiving couldn’t be more important in Frederick County than it is at present.
A caregiver is a paid or unpaid person who helps an individual with activities of daily living. Caregivers who are members of a care recipient’s family or social network, and who may have no specific professional training, are often described as informal caregivers. Caregivers most commonly assist with impairments related to old age, disability, a disease or a mental disorder.
Typical duties of a caregiver might include taking care of someone who has a chronic illness or disease; managing medications or talking to doctors and nurses on someone’s behalf; helping to bathe or dress someone who is frail or disabled; or taking care of household chores, meals or processes both formal and informal documentations related to health for someone who cannot do these things alone.
The need for additional resources dedicated to caregiving is rapidly becoming
The Good Brigade/Getty Images
According to U.S. Census data, in 2020, nearly 40,000 residents were 65 or older, making up 14.5% of Frederick County’s population. By 2030, this number is expected to double, placing pressure on caregiving resources.
critical, particularly given the growth of Frederick County’s aging population.
According to U.S. Census data, in 2020, nearly 40,000 residents were 65 or older, making up 14.5% of the county’s population. By 2030, this number is expected to double, with the population aged 60 and older growing at three times the rate of the county overall. The 85-and-older demographic is set to nearly quadruple over the next two decades.
This rapid growth places immense pressure on caregiving resources. Almost half — 48% — of senior households in Frederick County struggle to afford basic needs, and many caregivers are stretched beyond their limits. With 66% of family caregivers balancing work alongside caregiving responsibilities, U.S. businesses face
up to $33.6 billion in annual productivity losses due to absenteeism, interruptions and staff turnover. As caregiving stress increases, more seniors are placed in assisted living or nursing facilities, which can bring significant financial burdens for families and strain Medicare and Medicaid systems.
Closely associated with caregiving is Respite Care, the short term, periodic, temporary care of individuals with developmental or functional disabilities, used in order to relieve the primary caregiver.
Respite care is a powerful tool for Frederick County to utilize in helping seniors and the disabled remain in their homes. Even modest respite care investments yield significant benefits: caregivers receiving just four hours of weekly respite for a year report improved physical health (64%),
better emotional well-being (78%) and health improvements for the care recipient (50%). Respite care also reduces the likelihood of institutionalization, saving billions annually while allowing loved ones to remain at home.
The benefits of aging in place are extensive. Beyond financial savings, staying in a familiar environment provides stability and support, particularly for those with cognitive decline. It allows seniors to maintain independence, control, and connections to their communities, including neighbors, faith organizations and even pets. These factors have a profound impact on mental health and overall well-being. Furthermore, home environments are often healthier for aging individuals, reducing the stress, depression, and accelerated decline associated with relocation. Long-term care facilities, by contrast, see millions of health care-associated infections annually, adding to the risks of institutionalization.
Respite care offers a path forward, improving lives while easing the strain on caregivers and systems alike. It’s a solution we cannot afford to overlook.
Yet despite the clear benefits, Frederick County struggles to meet the growing demand. Funding for Respite Care has remained stagnant for years, in spite of the increased need, and current allocations are often depleted well before each fiscal year. This gap leaves caregivers without critical support and jeopardizes the health and stability of our seniors and the disabled.
As Frederick County’s senior population grows, we have an opportunity — and a responsibility — to support those who give so much of themselves to care for their loved ones.
Ed Hinde writes from Frederick.
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Homemade pasta makes for flavorful comfort food
BY METRO
Pasta is enjoyed across the globe. Whether it’s the main course of a meal or served up as a side dish, pasta will seemingly always have a place on the dinner table.
Pasta may not be the first thing people think of when pondering comfort food, but certain dishes, including ravioli, certainly meet the comfort food criteria. Such is the case with this recipe for “Herb Ravioli” courtesy of Lines+Angles.
Herb Ravioli
Makes 4 servings
For the dough:
14 ounces flour; for pasta
2 egg yolks
2 eggs
1 pinch salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the filling:
7 ounces baking potatoes
1 slice stale white bread
31⁄2 tablespoons soft butter
1 bunch finely chopped chives
1 bunch finely chopped parsley
Sprig chervil
4 ounces crème fraîche
1 finely chopped shallot
Salt Pepper
In addition:
Flour for the work surface
1 egg white
41⁄2 ounces bacon
1 bunch chives
Chervil or parsley, to garnish
1. Combine the flour, egg yolks, eggs, oil, salt, and 2 to 3 tablespoons
cold water and quickly knead to a pliable dough. Form into a ball, cover with plastic wrap and let rest for 1 hour.
2. For the filling, peel and quarter the potatoes and cook in boiling, salted water for 20 minutes.
3. Finely dice the bread. Heat 1 tablespoon butter and fry the diced bread until golden brown to make croutons. Let cool, then reserve 1 tablespoon of the croutons for serving.
4. Drain and mash the potatoes,
let cool slightly, then mix with the rest of the butter, salt, pepper, herbs, croutons, and crème fraîche.
5. Divide the pasta dough in half and roll out thinly into 2 sheets. Put teaspoonfuls of the filling on one of the sheets of pasta, leaving about 2 inches between them.
6. Brush the dough around the filling with egg white. Lay the second sheet of pasta dough on top and press together between the heaps of filling.
7. Cut out the ravioli with a pastry wheel.
8. Drop the ravioli into boiling, salted water and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, then take out and keep warm.
9. Dice the bacon and fry until crisp and brown. Wash the chives, shake dry and snip. Serve the ravioli onto warmed plates, scatter with bacon, chives and croutons and serve garnished with chervil or parsley.
Herb ravioli.
Ask Harry Your estate planning questions answered
How much does Medicaid allow us to set aside for our funerals?
If I sell a property I own (worth about $40,000), can I spend the money down on irrevocable funeral trust? Is there a limit to this fund per person for the purposes of Medicaid? Or can I instead spend it on a car? I don’t own one but do need it for transportation (driving my spouse to medical appointments). Or what other ways can I spend it so that my spouse qualifies for long term care?
a spousal waiver under which there would be no limit on your level of assets. Or the nursing home eligibility rules may apply even though it appears that your wife is still living at home. When one spouse is in a nursing facility, the other “community” spouse may keep about $150,000 in countable assets. In both instances, your wife would still be limited to $2,000.
Your state Medicaid program may or may not have limits on how much can be set aside to pay for a funeral, whether in an irrevocable funeral trust or through a prepaid funeral contract with a funeral home.You will have to check with your state’s Medicaid agency to find out.
Medicaid Asset Limits
However, your state’s Medicaid program also may or may not have asset limits for you and your spouse. States vary considerably on this both from state to state and among different types of Medicaid programs and situations of beneficiaries.
For the uninitiated, Medicaid is the safety net program for health care offered by the federal and state governments. Congress and the federal government set the ground rules, but each program is operated by the states, which have considerable latitude over their programs.
Medicaid is available only to those state residents considered “poor” under the program’s rules. Those rules limit the amount of income and assets applicants may have to qualify for benefits.
In terms of assets, the limit can range from a low of $2,000 to a high of unlimited assets. Some states have eliminated asset limits for applicants under the age of 65 (including my state of Massachusetts). California is unique in that it recently eliminated asset limits for applicants for benefits.
To complicate things further, some states apply a $3,000 asset limit for married couples when one or both applies for Medicaid. This may apply to you and your wife. However, there are often exceptions to this draconian bar to eligibility (which has not been increased in decades).You may be eligible for
Before selling your property, it would make sense to check with your state Medicaid agency or a local elder law attorney to learn whether you might qualify for a higher asset limit.
Noncountable Assets
None of this, of course, gets to your actual question. When an applicant for Medicaid or their spouse owns property above the asset limit, they can spend it down either by paying for goods and services, including health care expenses, for their own benefit. Or by purchasing property that is not counted against the limit.
The principal “noncountable” asset is the home. If you don’t own your home, you can buy one if you can afford to do so. If you do own your home, you can spend excess assets on repairs or updating appliances.
The other significant noncountable assets are the ones you mention: a prepaid funeral plan or funeral trust and a vehicle. While your state may or may not limit how much you may set aside for your funerals, there is likely no limit on the value of the vehicle you purchase for your use (though don’t buy a Mercedes or Rolls Royce — that’s likely to invite resistance from the state Medicaid agency).
Again, your state Medicaid agency or a local elder law attorney can advise you on any limits that do apply.You can find an elder law attorney at elderlawanswers.com.
Harry S. Margolis practices elder law, estate and special needs planning at Margolis Bloom & D’Agostino in Wellesley, Massachusetts, and a Fellow of FreeWill.com. He is author of The Baby Boomers Guide to Trusts:Your All-Purpose Estate Planning Tool and answers consumer questions about estate planning issues at www.AskHarry. info. Please post your estate planning questions there.
Harry S. Margolis
WINTER CALENDAR
SATURDAY, March 1
Other
Myersville Indoor Farmers Market
8:30-11:30 a.m.
Myersville Fire Co. Banquet Hall, 301 Main St., Myersville.
Held on the first and third Saturdays of each month. Shop local, enjoy fresh and high-quality products, and support the sustainability of the region’s agriculture and economy. Shoppers can expect a diverse array of offerings, including seasonal produce, baked goods, meats, eggs, handmade crafts, and other unique items.
Contact: 301-524-1035.
http://myersvillefarmersmarket.com
MONDAY, March 3
Classes workshops and lectures
Seasonal Watercolor Class
9:30-11:30 a.m.
Frederick Senior Center, 1440 Taney Ave., Frederick.
A variety of techniques and displays will be used to explore the medium. Beginners and returning students welcome. You will be amazed at what you can do! Instructor: Jeanne McDermott. Pre-register (4-week class on Mondays) starts March 3.
Contact: Frederick Senior Center, virtualseniorcenter@frederickcountymd. gov, 301-600-3525.
Cost: $40.
https://frederickcountymdgov.3dcartstores.com/SeasonalWatercolor-Frederick_p_617.html
Health
Exercise: Senior Recreation Council 8:55-10:10 a.m.
Talley Recreation Center, 121 N. Bentz St., Frederick.
Meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Requires $10 annual dues. See website and contact coordinator.
Contact: Susan, 301-695-1785.
Cost: $2.
https://srcfrederick.org
Mental Health Chat: Managing Loneliness & Depression
2-3 p.m.
Emmitsburg Senior Center, 300A S. Seton Ave., Unit 8, Emmitsburg.
What is the difference between loneliness
and depression? What are some factors related to loneliness and what are some signs of depression? What are the different types of loneliness, and how do we assess this within ourselves or others. How can Introverts or those who may suffer more anxiety maintain a social connection? Let’s explore this important topic while connecting as a group. Pre-register.
Contact: Emmitsburg Senior Center, virtualseniorcenter@frederickcountymd. gov, 301-600-6350.
https://www.frederickcountymd. gov/8075/50-Community-Centers
Other
Senior Men’s Group
9-11 a.m.
Wegmans, 7830 Wormans Mill Road, Frederick.
Connect with other men in the senior community! We meet weekly at Wegman’s to talk and catch-up. Just bring money for coffee. First time visitors, contact virtualseniorcenter@frederickcountymd. gov for more information.
Contact: Frederick County 50+ Centers, virtualseniorcenter@frederickcountymd. gov, 301-600-1234.
https://www.frederickcountymd. gov/8075/50-Community-Centers
TUESDAY, March 4
Other
Senior Tax Credit Seminar
10 a.m.
Walkersville Town Hall, 21 W. Frederick St., Walkersville.
The Town of Walkersville offers a Senior Tax Credit for homeowners age 65 and over. The amount of the Walkersville tax credit is 50% of the net Town tax. This is a supplement to the State’s Homeowner Tax Credit and County’s Senior Tax Credit, and all qualifications and limitations of these credits apply.
Sports and recreation
Basketball — Senior Recreation Council 7-9 p.m.
Walkersville Recreation Center (Elementary School), 83 Frederick St., Walkersville.
Requires registration and $10 annual dues see website. Enter through gym doors on the right side of the school.
Contact: Gerald Blessiing, gvblessing@ comcast.net, 240-651-1865.
Cost: $2.
https://srcfrederick.org
WEDNESDAY, March 5
Health
Exercise: Senior Recreation Council 8:55-10:10 a.m.
Talley Recreation Center, 121 N. Bentz St., Frederick.
Meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Requires $10 annual dues. See website and contact coordinator.
Contact: Susan, 301-695-1785.
Cost: $2.
https://srcfrederick.org
THURSDAY, March 6
Health
Senior Cafe: The Place to Come for Coffee, Conversation, Friendship and Fun Events! Heart Health 10-11 a.m.
Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville.
Join Katy Smith, manager for Preventive Cardiology and Outpatient Cardiac Rehab at Frederick Health to learn about heart health, risk factors for heart disease, signs/ symptoms, and treatment. You will learn about the preventive side of heart disease and cardiovascular services at Frederick Health. Free information and resources provided. 21 and older.
Contact: Walkersville Branch Library, 301600-8200.
http://www.fcpl.org
Other
Bridge Thursday: Senior Recreation Council 12-3 p.m.
Walkersville, Walkersville. Requires $10 annual dues. See website. Contact coordinator to reserve seat.
Contact: Judy Bell, 336-662-2889. https://srcfrederick.org
Sports and recreation
Open Duckpin Bowling 1-3 p.m.
Walkersville Lanes, 44 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Walkersville.
Hosted by Senior Recreation Council. Not league bowling. Requires $10 annual dues. Cost is weekly cost of bowling. See website and contact coordinator.
Contact: Gerald Blessing, gvblessing@ comcast.net, 240-651-1865. https://srcfrederick.org/
FRIDAY, March 7
Health
Exercise: Senior Recreation Council 8:55-10:10 a.m.
Talley Recreation Center, 121 N. Bentz St., Frederick.
Meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Requires $10 annual dues. See website and contact coordinator.
Contact: Susan, 301-695-1785. Cost: $2.
https://srcfrederick.org
SATURDAY, March 8
Family
Mount Olive UMC Spring Country Breakfast 7-11 a.m.
Mount Olive UMC, 2927 Gillis Falls Road, Mount Airy.
Served buffet-style. Pancakes, sausage, scrambled eggs, potato casserole, sausage gravy, biscuits, and spiced apples. Adults $12, children 8 and under $5. Featuring delicious homemade food items available at the Bake Table. Event information: 410-549-2285. Contact: Mount Olive UMC Communication, communication@mountoliveumc.org, 240425-9459.
http://mountoliveumc.org
Other
English-Spanish Conversation Hour / Hora de Conversación Inglés-Español 1-3 p.m.
C. Burr Artz Public Library, 110 E. Patrick St., Frederick.
A fun and friendly hour of language practice and cultural exchange. Whether you’re a native English speaker looking to brush up on your Spanish, or an ESL learner eager to practice English, this group is for you! 18 and older.
Contact: Erika Schenkelberg, eschenkelberg@frederickcountymd.gov. https://frederick.librarycalendar.com/event/ english-spanish-conversation-hour-hora-deconversacion-ingles-espanol-155372
MONDAY, March 10
Classes workshops and lectures
Sol Yoga 6-7 p.m.
Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville.
Join us for this free yoga class offered by Sol Yoga. Be sure to wear comfortable clothes. Contact: Walkersville Branch Library, 301600-8200. http://www.fcpl.org
Health
Exercise: Senior Recreation Council
8:55-10:10 a.m.
Talley Recreation Center, 121 N. Bentz St., Frederick.
Meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Requires $10 annual dues. See website and contact coordinator.
Contact: Susan, 301-695-1785.
Cost: $2.
https://srcfrederick.org
Other
Senior Men’s Group
9-11 a.m.
Wegmans, 7830 Wormans Mill Road, Frederick.
Connect with other men in the senior community! We meet weekly at Wegman’s to talk and catch-up. Just bring money for coffee. First time visitors, contact virtualseniorcenter@frederickcountymd.gov for more information.
Contact: Frederick County 50+ Centers, virtualseniorcenter@frederickcountymd.gov, 301-600-1234.
https://www.frederickcountymd. gov/8075/50-Community-Centers
Frederick County Senior Services Advisory Board Meeting
1 p.m.
Bourne Building Training Room, 355 Montevue Lane, Frederick.
For seniors. Open to the public. Meets the second Monday every month.
Contact: Division of Aging and Independence, SeniorServices@ frederickcountymd.gov, 301-600-1234. http://SeniorServices@frederickcountymd. gov
TUESDAY, March 11
Sports and recreation
Basketball — Senior Recreation Council
7-9 p.m.
Walkersville Recreation Center (Elementary School), 83 Frederick St., Walkersville. Requires registration and $10 annual dues see website. Enter through gym doors on the right side of the school.
Contact: Gerald Blessiing, gvblessing@ comcast.net, 240-651-1865.
Cost: $2.
https://srcfrederick.org
WEDNESDAY, March 12
Health
Exercise: Senior Recreation Council
8:55-10:10 a.m.
Talley Recreation Center, 121 N. Bentz St., Frederick.
Meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Requires $10 annual dues. See website and contact coordinator.
Contact: Susan, 301-695-1785.
Cost: $2.
https://srcfrederick.org
THURSDAY, March 13
Film
Wonder Book Classic Film Series Presents “Double Indemnity” (1944)
7:30-9:30 p.m.
Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick.
In 1938, Walter Neff, an experienced salesman of the Pacific All Risk Insurance Co., meets the seductive wife of one of his clients, Phyllis Dietrichson, and they have an affair. Phyllis proposes to kill her husband to receive the proceeds of an accident insurance policy and Walter devises a scheme to receive twice the amount based on a double indemnity clause. When Mr. Dietrichson is found dead on a train track, the police accept the determination of accidental death. However, the insurance analyst and Walter’s best friend Barton Keyes does not buy the story and suspects that Phyllis has murdered her husband with the help of another man.
Contact: Barbara Hiller, bhiller@
cityoffrederick.gov, 301-600-2868.
Cost: $7.
https://weinbergcenter.org/shows/doubleindemnity-1944/
Other
Senior Cafe: The Place to Come for Coffee, Conversation, Friendship and Fun Events! Ask a Jeweler 10-11 a.m.
Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville.
Stacey Krantz, from inBloom Jewelry, is excited to show you how she can transform your personal style, intentions, and vision into a unique piece of jewelry, using items from your home or her collection. 21 and older.
Contact: Walkersville Branch Library, 301600-8200.
http://www.fcpl.org
Bridge Thursday: Senior Recreation Council 12-3 p.m.
Walkersville, Walkersville.
Requires $10 annual dues. See website. Contact coordinator to reserve seat.
Contact: Judy Bell, 336-662-2889. https://srcfrederick.org
Dinner Dance Hosted by Brunswick Senior Center 2-5 p.m.
Brunswick Senior Center, 12 E. A St., Brunswick.
Join us at the Brunswick Eagles Club for tons of fun at our monthly dinner dance! Music and dancing starts at 2 and dinner is served at 4. Registrations due one week in advance.
Contact: Brunswick Senior Center, virtualseniorcenter@frederickcountymd.gov, 301-834-8115.
Cost: $12.
https://frederickcountymd-gov.3dcartstores. com/
Sports and recreation
Open Duckpin Bowling 1-3 p.m.
Walkersville Lanes, 44 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Walkersville.
Hosted by Senior Recreation Council. Not league bowling. Requires $10 annual dues. Cost is weekly cost of bowling. See website and contact coordinator.
Contact: Gerald Blessing, gvblessing@ comcast.net, 240-651-1865.
https://srcfrederick.org/
FRIDAY, March 14
Health
Exercise: Senior Recreation Council
Staff file photo by Ric Dugan
A man walks around Culler Lake in Frederick during a snowfall in early 2025.
WINTER CALENDAR
8:55-10:10 a.m.
Talley Recreation Center, 121 N. Bentz St., Frederick.
Meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Requires $10 annual dues. See website and contact coordinator.
Contact: Susan, 301-695-1785.
Cost: $2.
https://srcfrederick.org
Performing arts and music
Bluegrass Jam
7-10 p.m.
Mount Pleasant Ruritan, 8101 Crum Road, Walkersville.
Open to all levels of acoustic musicians and vocalists. Spectators, families welcome. Sandwiches, snacks and sodas available for purchase. No smoking or swearing. $5 donation at the door requested. 301-7885570.
Contact: Trevella J Foster, trevella@comcast. net, 301-898-3719.
http://mtpleasantruritan.com
Visual arts
Artobus: The Walters Art Museum
9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Delaplaine Arts Center, 40 S. Carroll St., Frederick.
Join us for a bus trip to the museum in Baltimore! The Walters Art Museum is among America’s most distinctive museums, forging connections between people and art from cultures around the world with a collection that spans seven millennia. Through its collections, exhibitions, and education programs, the Walters engages local, national and global audiences. For seniors, pre-registration required.
Contact: Jackie Clark, jclark@delaplaine.org, 301-698-0656.
Cost: $68 non-members, $48 members. https://delaplaine.org/programs/virtualartobus/
SATURDAY, March 15
Family
Maryland International Harvester Collectors Club Pancake Day
7 a.m.-12 p.m.
Murphy Farm , 11502 Browningsville Road, Ijamsville.
Family-friendly, indoor, all-you-can-eat breakfast includes pancakes, eggs, fresh sausage, bacon, biscuits, and gravy, with juice, milk, water, coffee, hot tea, and hot chocolate to drink. Carry-out available for
purchase. Pay with either cash or credit.
Contact: Leah Mader, Reba3Yaks@yahoo. com, 443-789-4119.
Cost: $12 adult, $5 kids ages 6 to 10 (under 6 free).
http://www.mdihcc39.org
Other
Myersville Indoor Farmers Market
8:30-11:30 a.m.
Myersville Fire Co. Banquet Hall, 301 Main St., Myersville.
Held on the first and third Saturdays of each month. Shop local, enjoy fresh and high-quality products, and support the sustainability of the region’s agriculture and economy. Shoppers can expect a diverse array of offerings, including seasonal produce, baked goods, meats, eggs, handmade crafts, and other unique items.
Contact: 301-524-1035.
http://myersvillefarmersmarket.com
SUNDAY, March 16
Classes workshops and lectures
Rock Art and Religion in Ancient Egypt
1:30-2:30 p.m.
Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville.
Join Lauren Lippiello, assistant professor of history and anthropology at FCC, for an illuminating presentation on the rhythms of the sun and its influence on religion in Predynastic Egypt, as revealed by rock art from Aswan, Egypt. 18 and older.
Contact: Walkersville Branch Library, 301600-8200.
http://www.fcpl.org
MONDAY, March 17
Health
Exercise: Senior Recreation Council
8:55-10:10 a.m.
Talley Recreation Center, 121 N. Bentz St., Frederick.
Meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Requires $10 annual dues. See website and contact coordinator.
Contact: Susan, 301-695-1785.
Cost: $2. https://srcfrederick.org Other
9-11 a.m.
Wegmans, 7830 Wormans Mill Road, Frederick.
Connect with other men in the senior community! We meet weekly at Wegman’s to talk and catch-up. Just bring money for coffee. First time visitors, contact virtualseniorcenter@frederickcountymd.gov for more information.
Contact: Frederick County 50+ Centers, virtualseniorcenter@frederickcountymd.gov, 301-600-1234.
https://www.frederickcountymd. gov/8075/50-Community-Centers
Talley Book Group — Senior Recreation Council
10:15-11:15 a.m.
Talley Recreation Center (Classroom A, ground floor), 121 N. Bentz St., Frederick. Requires $10 annual dues see website for details.
Contact: Kathy Blackstone, hkblackstone01@ gmail.com, 908-797-6539. https://srcfrederick.org
TUESDAY, March 18
Sports and recreation
Basketball — Senior Recreation Council
7-9 p.m.
Walkersville Recreation Center (Elementary School), 83 Frederick St., Walkersville. Requires registration and $10 annual dues see website. Enter through gym doors on the right side of the school.
Contact: Gerald Blessiing, gvblessing@ comcast.net, 240-651-1865.
Cost: $2.
https://srcfrederick.org
WEDNESDAY, March 19
Health
Exercise: Senior Recreation Council 8:55-10:10 a.m.
Talley Recreation Center, 121 N. Bentz St., Frederick.
Meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Requires $10 annual dues. See website and contact coordinator.
Contact: Susan, 301-695-1785.
Cost: $2.
https://srcfrederick.org
Friends In Frederick Parkinson’s Disease Support Group
12-2 p.m.
Mount Pleasant Ruritan Club, 8101 Crum Road, Walkersville.
Treatments for Advanced Parkinson’s Disease with Nancy Howerton from Abbie Pharmaceuticals. The meeting begins at noon with lunch.
Contact: John Nicodemus, john. nicodemus@verizon.net, 240-815-0080. https://fifpdsg.org/
THURSDAY, March 20
Other
Bridge Thursday: Senior Recreation Council 12-3 p.m.
Walkersville, Walkersville. Requires $10 annual dues. See website. Contact coordinator to reserve seat.
Contact: Judy Bell, 336-662-2889.
https://srcfrederick.org
Sports and recreation
Open Duckpin Bowling 1-3 p.m.
Walkersville Lanes, 44 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Walkersville.
Hosted by Senior Recreation Council. Not league bowling. Requires $10 annual dues. Cost is weekly cost of bowling. See website and contact coordinator.
Contact: Gerald Blessing, gvblessing@ comcast.net, 240-651-1865.
https://srcfrederick.org/
FRIDAY, March 21
Health
Exercise: Senior Recreation Council 8:55-10:10 a.m.
Talley Recreation Center, 121 N. Bentz St., Frederick.
Meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Requires $10 annual dues. See website and contact coordinator.
Contact: Susan, 301-695-1785.
Cost: $2.
https://srcfrederick.org
Other
Disabled American Veteran Service Officer at Fort Detrick
9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
VA Community Based Outpatient Clinic, Porter Street, Fort Detrick.
The third Friday of each month by appointment only. The DAV Service Officer will be available to provide information and prepare VA claims to obtain VA benefits for service members, veterans, their spouse and dependents. Appointments can be made by calling DAV Service Officer, Ernie Unger 301-842-2562, or (cell) 301-3310091 or email michelobqt@yahoo.com.
Contact: Ernie Unger, michelobqt@yahoo. com, 301-842-2562.
http://www.dav.org
Disabled American Veteran Service
Officer at Fort Detrick
9:30-3 a.m.
VA Community Based Outpatient Clinic, Porter Street, Fort Detrick.
The third Friday of each month by appointment only. The DAV Service Officer will be available to provide information and prepare VA claims to obtain VA benefits for service members, veterans, their spouse and dependents. Appointments can be made by calling DAV Service Officer, Ernie Unger 301-842-2562, or (cell) 301-331-0091 or email michelobqt@yahoo.com.
Contact: Ernie Unger, michelobqt@yahoo. com, 301-842-2562. http://www.dav.org
SATURDAY, March 22
Performing arts and music
Dona Nobis Pacem: Frederick In Harmony
7-9 p.m.
Coffman Chapel at Hood College, 541 Coffman Chapel Drive, Frederick.
The Frederick Symphony Orchestra, The Frederick Chorale, and Pianist Kuei-l Wu present an unforgettable concert featuring: Gwyneth Walker’s “Tree of Peace,” Vaughan Williams’ “Dona Nobis Pacem,” Beethoven’s “Fidelio Overture, Op. 72” and “Chorale
Fantasy, Op. 80,” featuring Hood College faculty member and pianist Kuei-I Wu. Tickets available online. 18 and over.
Contact: Kiley Mead, kiley.mead@ frederickchorale.org, 301-514-4524.
Cost: $20-$25.
https://cur8.com/16536/project/124410
SUNDAY, March 23
Performing arts and music
Dona Nobis Pacem: Frederick In Harmony 3-5 p.m.
Coffman Chapel at Hood College, 541 Coffman Chapel Drive, Frederick.
The Frederick Symphony Orchestra, The Frederick Chorale, and Pianist Kuei-l Wu present an unforgettable concert featuring: Gwyneth Walker’s “Tree of Peace,” Vaughan Williams’ “Dona Nobis Pacem,” Beethoven’s “Fidelio Overture, Op. 72” and “Chorale Fantasy, Op. 80,” featuring Hood College faculty member and pianist Kuei-I Wu. Tickets available online. 18 and over.
Contact: Kiley Mead, kiley.mead@ frederickchorale.org, 301-514-4524.
Cost: $20-$25.
https://cur8.com/16536/project/124410
MONDAY, March 24
Classes workshops and lectures
Sol Yoga
6-7 p.m.
Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville.
Join us for this free yoga class offered by Sol Yoga. Be sure to wear comfortable clothes.
Contact: Walkersville Branch Library, 301600-8200.
http://www.fcpl.org
Health
Exercise: Senior Recreation Council 8:55-10:10 a.m.
Talley Recreation Center, 121 N. Bentz St., Frederick.
Meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Requires $10 annual dues. See website and contact coordinator.
Contact: Susan, 301-695-1785.
Cost: $2.
https://srcfrederick.org
Other
Senior Men’s Group 9-11 a.m.
Wegmans, 7830 Wormans Mill Road, Frederick.
Connect with other men in the senior community! We meet weekly at Wegman’s to talk and catch-up. Just bring money for coffee. First time visitors, contact virtualseniorcenter@frederickcountymd.gov for more information.
Contact: Frederick County 50+ Centers, virtualseniorcenter@frederickcountymd.gov, 301-600-1234.
https://www.frederickcountymd. gov/8075/50-Community-Centers
TUESDAY, March 25
Other
Seniors for Seniors Pet Education 1-2 p.m.
Middletown Branch Library, 31 E. Green St., Middletown.
Join the Frederick Friends of Our County Animal Shelter (FFOCAS) group to learn about the joys and care considerations of owning an older pet. FFOCAS will discuss caring for older pets, highlight adoptable senior animals at the Frederick Animal Control and Adoption Center, and review the adoption process for these pets. Recommended for ages 55+.
Contact: Cassidy L, 301-600-7560.
https://frederick.librarycalendar.com/event/ seniors-seniors-pet-education-153864
(Continued from 6)
and you’ll get lectures, handouts, slides and vibrant discussion, but the one thing you won’t get (thankfully) are tests and grades. Courses are designed for adults by adults. They are fun but can also be described as “no-nonsense.” More than 175 courses are offered each year.
The IRL curriculum team offer courses for just about anyone. Each course is designed to be casual, fun and with the needs of older adults in mind, though there is no age minimum requirement. Those not yet retired are more than welcome to join.
Included in the curriculum are courses in arts, crafts and music; computers and technology; food and drink; health and wellness; history, culture and current events; home and hobbies; learning a language; life planning and finances; philosophy, religion and exploration; photography; science and nature; and writing. A full list of the spring 2025 courses is at ILRFCC.org.
According to Ackiewicz, some of the more popular courses are in the history realm, current events and their “learning on location” bus trips.
There are also many unique courses you might not expect to find, like Discover Your Past Lives, Why is a Ghost a Ghost?, Crochet for Beginners, Writing Your Life Story, Maryland Whiskey 101, Successful Aging in Place, Chickenology (how to raise chickens), Beeconomics (how to make money as a beekeeper!) and Introduction to Ballroom Dancing.
A typical course is held in person, although some are virtual and others are offered on location. Most include 8 to 12 sessions, span one or two months, last for an hour or two at a time, and can occur on any day of the week. Offerings vary widely, so it is advisable to check online or ask for a printed catalog to see what best meets your personal interests and schedule.
In general, most winter/spring courses begin in late January or early February (although others may begin later in the year) and finish by late May or early June.
Tuition and fees are reasonable. Most of the course costs are comprised of fees that can range from free for courses that last only one session to just over $100 for multi-session courses. Course costs average $59 to $69. If you try a course and find it is not for you, you may be able to
transfer into another course or request a refund.
Some courses are free, made possible through the FCC Foundation. The Institute partners with Frederick County Public Libraries, Frederick County Senior Center and others to offer free courses at those locations.
Instructors are usually passionate experts with lived experience in the subject area. IRL does welcome new instructors with new course ideas (if interested, submit a course proposal form at ILRFCC. org). Ackiewicz promises that all new courses selected are given every chance to succeed, offering them at least two or three times before re-evaluating.
STUDENT PERSPECTIVES
Margie Shattuck has taken ILR courses since she moved to Frederick in 2011. She’s studied a number of subject areas and most enjoys courses on subjects she knows little about.
“It’s a great way to learn a few things and see if I would like to study it further,” she said.
She is currently an ambassador for the program, helping to get the word out about the Institute and staffing booths at expos, festivals and meetings.
Shattuck highly recommends ILR.
“It’s helped enrich my life,” she said. “I’ve learned about a lot of subjects I had a slight interest in, such as learning about past lives, technical things like Photoshop, photography on my phone and medical things. There’s a great program called Medically Curious, where a doctor comes in and talks about things like how to research medical issues online and how to avoid incorrect info on the web.”
Curious students can try a wide swath of courses, although it would behoove you to choose areas of interest. If you have a change of heart, partial refunds can be requested after a class begins, but they are not promised.
Also, be ready for a few know-it-alls who seem to know the teacher and the subject matter inside and out. Laugh it off and remember, some things never change.
Gary Bennett is a longtime Frederick resident who spends his time hiking, biking, volunteering and providing childcare for grandchildren. He is married and retired from his career as a nonprofit marketing executive.
Courtesy of Frederick Community College Learning on Location Trip with Chris Haugh, through FCC’s ILR.
Staff photo by Ric Dugan
Richard Kaplowitz of Frederick types notes during a class at the Institute for Learning in Retirement at FCC.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
CLUES ACROSS
1. Hand (Spanish)
5. Siskel and __, critics
10. Seaman
12. Chemical weapon
14. One who eliminates
16. They precede C
18. Baseball stat
19. Americans’ “uncle”
20. Cassia tree
22. Surround
23. Crisp and Pebbles are two
25. A sudden very loud sound
26. Affirmative
27. Disadvantage
28. Corpuscle count (abbr.)
30. OJ trial judge
31. New York art district
33. Become more bleak
35. Upstate NY city
37. Clarified butters
38. One who witnesses
40. Condemn
41. __ juris
42. Natural
44. Prohibit
45. Swiss river
48. Greek war god
50. 5 iron
52. New Zealand mountain parrot
53. Scandinavian surname
55. Follows sigma
56. Doctor of Education
57. Spanish be
58. One that feeds on bugs
63. Tooth issue
65. Get into
66. Lumps of clay
67. Overly studious student
CLUES DOWN
1. Variety of Chinese
2. Boxing’s GOAT
3. Japanese classical
theater
4. Prayer
5. Inspire with love
6. Ballplayers’ accessory
7. Retailer payment system
8. More raw
9. Atomic #81
10. Fencing sword
11. Hostilities
13. Sea dweller
15. Resinlike substance secreted by certain insects
17. Businessmen
18. Rest here please (abbr.)
21. Loud devices
23. Make a soft murmuring sound
24. One point west of due south
27. Trout
29. Type of grass
32. South American plant
34. Letter of the Greek alphabet
35. Not secure
36. Traveler
39. Sweet potato
40. Period after sunrise and before sunset
43. Some are choppy
44. Asian country
46. Genus of mosquitoes
47. Cool!
49. Shrill, wailing sound
51. A baglike structure in a plant or animal
54. Within
59. Unhappy
60. Decorate a cake with frosting
61. Videocassette recorder
62. Largest English dictionary (abbr.)
64. It cools a home
SUDOKU
Here’s How It Works:
Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!
Fall in Love with Homewood!
You are invited to Our Open House Event Open House February 27, 2025
1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Come visit Homewood to hear about the lifestyle Homewood offers!
Patio homes, cottages and apartments will be available to tour. Marketing staff will be available to answer any questions.
Door prize drawings will be available! Refreshments will be served.
RSVP to Laura at (301) 732-6157 by February 25th.