Prime Time June 2024

Prime Time

Love and Pride

Frederick native-turnedTexan author Toni Draper returns with a new novel

Publisher

Geordie Wilson

Director of Revenue

Connie Hastings

Advertising Director

Brittney Hamilton

Sales Support Manager

Noelle Hallman

Editor Lauren LaRocca Contributing Writers

Dawn Morgan Neary Calendar Editor

Sue Guynn

Photographer

Tomoko Segleski

Multimedia Marketing Consultants

James Constantine

Kathy Gelwicks

Heather Lowman

Michael Santos

Distributed monthly in The Frederick News-Post and through selected distribution outlets. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BY COPYRIGHT. Prices, specials and descriptions are deemed accurate as of the time of publishing. This publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express written consent of the publisher. Advertising information has been provided by the advertisers. Opinions expressed in Prime Time Frederick are those of editors or contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of Ogden Newspapers of Maryland, LLC. All terms and conditions are subject to change. The cover, design, format and layout of this publication are trademarks of Ogden Newspapers of Maryland, LLC and published by The Frederick News-Post.

On the cover: Author Toni Draper will be in Frederick for Pride and will hold a book signing of her latest novel, “Love on the Line,” at Dublin Roasters.

Photo by Tomoko Segleski

Nominate a senior

Know someone who’s 55+ and doing incredible work in our community? Nominate them to be featured in an upcoming issue of Prime Time. Email llarocca@newspost.com.

Frederick nativeturned-Texan author Toni Draper will visit town for a book signing

Love and Pride

BY DAWN MORGAN NEARY SPECIAL TO THE NEWS-POST

Author Toni Draper was born and raised in Frederick but moved to Texas years ago for love.

She described herself as a quiet and shy person, and writing is the way she expresses herself best. Every important relationship, she noted, started with a text message or note slipped into a jacket pocket.

Draper will be in town for Frederick Pride and will be at Dublin Roasters on June 23 for a book signing for her latest novel, “Love on the Line.”

The lesbian romance novel tells the story of two women, one en route to the Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, New Mexico, the other already on track to be an immigration social worker and possible attorney.

We caught up with Draper to hear about her life and the new book.

How did you end up in Texas?

I met my (now) wife online via a lesbian dating site. Again, and of course, writing was the catalyst. I saw that she was online at that fateful moment in time and pressed the “I’m interested” button. A few weeks later, she flew to Maryland, and not long after, I moved to Texas, although I did so sans the proverbial U-Haul. I live in a small town that’s been surrounded, since I’ve been here, by a much larger city — population 1 million-plus. If you were to look at a color-coded map of Texas, you’d see that our home sits on one of the few blue

dots in our red state. What that means is that the LGBTQ community is more widely accepted here than in other Lone Star places. Even so, I know that if I ever want to grow my readership, I’m going to have to travel, and where better to start than Frederick.

Your latest novel is very timely. How did you get the idea and why is it an important story for you to tell?

I started writing “Love on the Line” a few years back, before immigration became such a hot topic. Unfortunately, I lost more than half of my original manuscript, thanks to a desktop computer death caused by a severe storm. I was then hit hard by a bout with COVID, followed by a professional move to a different school district much closer to home, all happenings that nearly had me throwing in the towel and giving up.

I’ve made many trips to the borderlands. My brother-in-law once owned a rather large ranch in El Indio, where one of my main characters was born. I wanted to write an enemies-to-lovers romance, and when trying to imagine what might make enemies out of wouldbe lovers, and vice versa, the first conflict to enter my mind was the one I’ve written into my story. I thought it important — and a writer’s challenge — to try to present both sides of the story in a scenario that is far from black-and-white. It’s a very different world on the border. One that has to be experienced to be understood. And I’ve done my best to give value to all beliefs and the realities from multiple perspectives in my writing.

Tell me more about your upcoming book signing at Dublin Roasters. What can folks expect?

I’ll be signing copies of my novel, set partly in Frederick with familiar places, at one of the venues that my characters frequent to listen to live music and enjoy some great coffee. Back in my day in Frederick, coffee shops were the go-to place where live acoustic music could be heard. For old times’ sake, I felt the need to immortalize that memory and who knows, maybe bring it back to life. Maybe some of them who were there in the back-then can reminisce about those very special times in our lives — and those who weren’t around to experience such weekend events will find themselves inspired to take up the gauntlet and bring back the good of those times.

Frederick is a city obsessed with dogs. You, too?

I can’t remember a time when dogs weren’t part of my family and life. A few days before my first Christmas in Texas, I visited the local humane society’s shelter and found a beautiful spaniel who called to me from her cage’s confines. My heart immediately went out to her. I knew she was a sensitive soul. I could see it in her eyes. So I brought her home with me. I named her Chesa (short for Chesapeake), and she proved to be one of the best dogs ever. I’ve since lost track of how many unwanted and unloved senior and special-needs canines who’ve left paw prints on my heart and life, but with my first publishing contract, I’ve vowed to write about at least one of them in each book I write.

What was the first novel you wrote? How did it come to be?

The first novel I wrote was “Wildfire.” It was also the first manuscript for which I was offered a publishing contract. It was published by Interlude Press, which sold holdings to Chicago Review Press when they closed their doors shortly after its publication. Interestingly, it was not the first manuscript I submitted to them.

The first was “Back in the Saddle,” which they were not interested in because, according to them, they already had a Western/rodeo romance in the works. However, since they seemed to like my style of writing, I seized the moment to let them know I had another completed manuscript.

Because it was important to me that I get the facts in the fiction right, I consulted with a woman who had been a wildland firefighter for more than 30 years. She graciously offered to read my manuscript and wrote a cherished blurb about my writing.

“Wildfire” has received mixed and polarized reviews by readers. Some have expressed reasons they love it, others said why they didn’t like it. I’ll have copies of it with me at Frederick Pride, for those who would like to share their thoughts and review.

This seems like the perfect place and time to remind readers that even clicking on a few stars in Amazon or leaving only a few words are all that’s needed for an author’s books to show up as “another book you might like to read” for those who are searching. Doing so really helps authors out.

How was the publishing experience? Has it changed over the years?

My first publishing experience was exciting, frustrating and enlightening. I was thrilled to have a publisher deem a story I’d written as worthy of their interest, investment and time. I was frustrated by how long it took to go from submission to publication, but I was so happy to have been offered a contract that I didn’t dare turn it down simply because of a timeline.

What was your first Pride experience?

The first Pride I ever went to was in Montgomery County, Maryland, and it was pretty much a picnic-like, family-style environment. Small. Very lowkey. As I recall, there were only a few vendors and not many people in attendance. It must have been in the early 2000s. I went with friends from a group of lesbians that had formed from a Washington Blade ad.

Do you think Pride is still important for a community?

I do think Pride is important for a community and am happy to see the events evolve and grow. In my younger days, and still today in many places, there weren’t many places you could go to feel free to be yourself. I think it’s especially important for younger people to see and feel the support of the community in which they live. It’s a celebration at which they can be proud of who they are and feel empowered by the awareness that they are not alone. I look forward to being a part of it and can’t wait to see how Frederick Pride both shows members of its community some love and makes me proud to call it my hometown.

A book signing will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. June 23 at Dublin Roasters, 1780 N. Market St., Frederick. Learn more about the author at tonirdraper.com.

This interview has been edited for space and clarity.

Courtesy photo

Author Toni Draper will be in Frederick for Pride and will hold a book signing of her latest novel, “Love on the Line,” at Dublin Roasters.

Your doctor or your insurer?

Little-known rules may ease the choice in Medicare Advantage

BY SUSAN JAFFE KFF HEALTH NEWS

Bart Klion, 95, and his wife, Barbara, faced a tough choice in January: The upstate New York couple learned that this year they could keep either their private, Medicare Advantage insurance plan — or their doctors at Saratoga Hospital.

The Albany Medical Center system, which includes their hospital, is leaving the Klions’ Humana plan — or, depending on which side is talking, the other way around. The breakup threatened to cut the couple’s lifeline to cope with serious chronic health conditions.

Klion refused to pick the lesser of two bad options without a fight.

He contacted Humana, the Saratoga hospital, and the health system. The couple’s doctors “are an exceptional group of caregivers and have made it possible for us to live an active and productive life,” he wrote to the hospital’s CEO. He called his wife’s former employer, which requires its retirees to enroll in a Humana Medicare Advantage plan to receive company health benefits. He also contacted the New York StateWide Senior Action Council, one of the nationwide State Health Insurance Assistance Programs that offer free, unbiased advice on Medicare.

Klion said they all told him the same thing: Keep your doctors or your insurance.

With rare exceptions, Advantage members are locked into their plans for the rest of the year — while health providers may leave at any time.

Disputes between insurers and providers can lead to entire hospital systems suddenly leaving the plans. Insurers must comply with extensive regulations from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Ser-

Bart Klion says the doctors who have treated him and his wife “have made it possible for us to live an active and productive life.” But those health care providers are leaving the Klions’ Medicare Advantage plan. The New York couple were told they needed to find new doctors or other health insurance by March 31.

vices, including little-known protections for beneficiaries when doctors or hospitals leave their networks. But the news of a breakup can come as a surprise.

In the nearly three decades since Congress created a private-sector alternative to original, government-run Medicare, the plans have enrolled a record 52% of Medicare’s 66 million older or disabled adults, according to the CMS. But along with getting extra benefits that original Medicare doesn’t offer, Advantage beneficiaries have discovered downsides. One common complaint is the requirement that they receive care only from networks of designated providers.

Many hospitals have also become disillusioned by the program.

“We hear every day, from our hospitals and health systems across the country, about challenges they experience with

Medicare Advantage plans,” said Michelle Millerick, senior associate director for health insurance and coverage policy at the American Hospital Association, which represents about 5,000 hospitals. The hurdles include prior authorization restrictions, late or low payments, and “inappropriate denials of medically necessary covered services,” she said.

“Some of these issues get to a boiling point where decisions are made to not participate in networks anymore,” she said.

An Escape Hatch

CMS gives most Advantage members two chances to change plans: during the annual open enrollment period in the fall and from January until March 31.

But a few years ago, CMS created an escape hatch by expanding special en-

rollment periods, or SEPs, which allow for “exceptional circumstances.” Beneficiaries who qualify can request SEPs to change plans or return to original Medicare.

According to CMS rules, there’s an SEP patients may use if their health is in jeopardy due to problems getting or continuing care. This may include situations in which their health care providers are leaving their plans’ networks, said David Lipschutz, an associate director at the Center for Medicare Advocacy.

Another SEP is available for beneficiaries who experience “significant” network changes, although CMS officials declined to explain what qualifies as significant. However, in 2014, CMS offered this SEP to UnitedHealthcare Advantage members after the insurer terminated contracts with providers in 10 states. When providers leave, CMS ensures that the plans maintain “adequate access to needed services,” Meena Seshamani, CMS deputy administrator and director of the federal Center for Medicare, said in a statement.

While hospitals say insurers are pushing them out, insurers blame hospitals for the turmoil in Medicare Advantage networks.

“Hospitals are using their dominant market positions to demand unprecedented double-digit rate increases and threatening to terminate their contracts if insurers don’t agree,” said Ashley Bach, a spokesperson for Regence BlueShield, which offers Advantage plans in Idaho, Oregon, Utah, and Washington state.

KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs of KFF — the independent source for health policy research, polling and journalism.

Hans Pennink/KFF Health News

Mom’s spaghetti is a sweet taste of home

BY AARON HUTCHERSON THE WASHINGTON POST

Spaghetti with meat sauce reminds me of home. It made frequent appearances during my childhood. Just thinking about it conjures images of my mother at the stove preparing a batch.

Onions are sizzling in a large saute pan. Ground beef is added and cooked until its red color disappears. Tomatoes go in next, simmering away while sprinkles of this and that seasoning lend their flavors until it’s time for the sauce to merge with the cooked pasta, allowing the two to become one. Finally, my mom, dad, brother and I all sit around the small kitchen table to enjoy our bowls of pasta and connect at the end of the day.

Now I yearn for that simpler time, when I wasn’t worried about the stressors of adult life, such as bills, jobs and everything else going on in the world. But for many years and despite the many miles between us, I didn’t yearn for a bowl of my mom’s spaghetti.

For my version of the meat sauce, I use Italian sausage in addition to ground beef, because I love the fennel, garlic and herb flavor it adds and reinforces. And while there are some jarred marinara sauces that I love, canned tomato paste and crushed tomatoes are more consistent and give more control over the final outcome. As for my choice of sweetener, I opt for brown sugar because I love the extra hint of depth that the molasses in it adds to the sauce.

I can’t remember the last time I’d made spaghetti before developing this riff on my mom’s recipe. My first bite brought a flood of emotions as I thought about how much has changed over the years and how much change is still to come. But it also gave me a warming sense of comfort, just like my mother’s love.

Spaghetti With Meat Sauce

6 to 8 servings (makes about 12 cups)

Active time: 30 mins; Total time: 40 mins

Spaghetti with meat sauce was a staple of staff writer Aaron Hutcherson’s childhood, and this recipe is an homage to his mother’s version. It features a mixture of ground beef and Italian sausage, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and — for a touch of sweetness — brown sugar. It’s designed to make a lot with plenty of leftovers, but you can freeze it — either just the sauce or the finished pasta — for smaller households.

Storage: Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Freeze either just the sauce or the finished pasta with sauce for up to 3 months.

INGREDIENTS

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 medium yellow onion (8 ounces), diced

1/2 teaspoon fine salt, plus more as needed

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste

1 pound ground beef, preferably 90% lean

1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

2 teaspoons garlic powder

1 (6-ounce) can no-salt-added tomato paste

1 (28-ounce) can no-salt-added

crushed tomatoes

1 cup water

2 tablespoons packed light or dark brown sugar

1 pound dried spaghetti

Finely grated parmesan or pecorino Romano cheese, for serving (optional)

STEPS

In a large Dutch oven, pot or saute pan over medium-high heat, heat the oil until shimmering. Add the onion, salt and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion starts to brown

around the edges, 2 to 3 minutes.

Add the beef, sausage, Italian seasoning and garlic powder and cook, stirring and breaking the meat into small chunks with a spoon or spatula, until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.

Add the tomato paste and cook, stirring constantly, until evenly combined and the tomato paste slightly darkens, 1 to 2 minutes.

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, water (swirl the water inside the can to get out all of the tomatoes) and brown sugar, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally and adjusting the heat as needed to maintain a gentle simmer, until the sauce reduces and the flavors come together, 15 to 20 minutes. Taste, and season with more salt or pepper as desired. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until just shy of al dente, 1 to 2 minutes less than the package cooking instructions. Transfer the pasta to the sauce (using tongs or by draining and pouring in) and cook, stirring frequently, until combined and the pasta is al dente, about 2 minutes. Divide among bowls, top with cheese, if using, and serve hot.

Substitutions: Ground beef and Italian sausage — any ground meat or plant-based alternative. Brown sugar ; Barbecue sauce, granulated sugar, molasses, maple syrup or other sweetener. spaghetti squash or your favorite dried pasta shape.

Nutrition per serving (1 1/2 cups), based on 8: 494 calories, 61g carbohydrates, 54mg cholesterol, 15g fat, 6g fiber, 30g protein, 5g saturated fat, 529mg sodium, 13g sugar

This analysis is an estimate based on available ingredients and this preparation. It should not substitute for a dietitian’s or nutritionist’s advice.

— Aaron Hutcherson

Scott Suchman for The Washington Post

The Italian-American staple of spaghetti with meat sauce is classic comfort food.

Anna and Zoey, best friends

JUNE CALENDAR

MONDAY, June 3

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 Janssen, jsusan481@aol. com, 301-695-1785.

Cost: $2.

https://srcfrederick.org

TUESDAY, June 4

Classes workshops and lectures

Senior Fitness: Chair Yoga 10-11 a.m.

Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville.

Join Trisha Houston with Sol Yoga as she leads a chair yoga class. Wear comfortable clothes. We provide the chairs and have extra mats, or, bring your own mat!

Contact: Walkersville Branch Library, 301600-8200.

http://www.fcpl.org

Outdoors

Easy Hikes with the Senior Recreation Council

12 a.m.

Meeting Locations Vary.

Requires $10 annual dues. See website for details. Hikes offered April through June, and September through October. Hike from 3 to 6 miles on terrain with good footing and little or no elevation change. Pace is adjusted to the speed of the group. Meeting locations vary, contact coordinator.

Contact: Kathy Ginsburg, kathyginsburg1106@gmail.com, 301-6394144.

https://srcfrederick.org

Performer

”Byline: Ernie Pyle”

1:30-2:30 p.m.

Urbana Senior Center, 9020 Amelung St., Urbana.

One of the first “embedded’ reporters, Ernie Pyle wrote a column that ran daily in Scripps-Howard newspapers during World War II. “Byline Ernie Pyle” is a one-man, one-hour show created by Steve LaRocque. The script, recounting the major events of World War II, consists entirely of excerpts from Pyle’s reports

from the front, and is used by permission of the Scripps-Howard Foundation. Preregistration required.

Contact: Urbana Senior Center, virtualseniorcenter@frederickcountymd. gov, 301-600-7020.

Cost: $5.

https://www.frederickcountymd. gov/8075/50-Community-Centers

WEDNESDAY, June 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 Janssen, jsusan481@aol. com, 301-695-1785.

Cost: $2.

https://srcfrederick.org

Sports and recreation

Softball — Senior Recreation Council

12 a.m.

Pinecliff Park, 8350 Pinecliff Park Road, Frederick.

Requires $10 annual dues. See website. April-September. Wednesday: Practice at 6 p.m. Friday: Games at 6:30 p.m.

Associated activity costs. Contact coordinator. Activity is open to women over 40 and men over 50.

Contact: Adrian Winpigler, 301-662-6623. https://srcfrederick.org

THURSDAY, June 6

Other

Bridge Thursday: Senior Recreation Council 1-4 p.m.

Spring Ridge Senior Apartments, 6351 Spring Ridge Parkway, Frederick.

Requires $10 annual dues. See website. Contact coordinator to reserve seat.

Contact: Judy Bell, 336-662-2889.

https://srcfrederick.org

Sports and recreation

Bicycling — Senior Recreation Council

9 a.m.

Locations vary.

Requires $10 annual dues see website.

Meeting locations vary, depending on ride location contact coordinator.

Contact: Kathy Araiza, myjamis1@gmail. com, 301-606-0064.

https://srcfrederick.org

Open Duckpin Bowling

1-3 p.m.

Walkersville Lanes, 44 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Walkersville.

Hosted by the Senior Recreation Center. 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, June 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 Janssen, jsusan481@aol. com, 301-695-1785.

Cost: $2.

https://srcfrederick.org

Sports and recreation

Softball — Senior Recreation Council 12 a.m.

Pinecliff Park, 8350 Pinecliff Park Road, Frederick.

Requires $10 annual dues. See website. April-September. Wednesday: Practice at 6 p.m. Friday: Games at 6:30 p.m. Associated activity costs. Contact coordinator. Activity is open to women over 40 and men over 50.

Contact: Adrian Winpigler, 301-662-6623. https://srcfrederick.org

Bocce — Senior Recreation Council 8 a.m.-12 p.m.

Baker Park Bocce courts, Frederick. Requires $10 annual dues see website for details.

Contact: Terri Baker, cyclechick54@ outlook.com, 301-508-0283. https://srcfrederick.org

MONDAY, June 10

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 Janssen, jsusan481@aol. com, 301-695-1785.

Cost: $2.

https://srcfrederick.org

WEDNESDAY, June 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 Janssen, jsusan481@aol. com, 301-695-1785.

Cost: $2.

https://srcfrederick.org

Other

Veterans Coffee Social 10-11:30 a.m.

Emmitsburg Senior Center, 300A S. Seton Ave., Unit 8, Emmitsburg.

Join others in the military-connected community for a social hour with light refreshments. Veterans Advisory Council Coordinator Michaela Browne will be present to share information about resources available to Frederick County veterans and their families.

Contact: Caitlyn Kirby, vac@ frederickcountymd.gov, 301-600-6350. https://www.frederickcountymd. gov/8075/50-Community-Centers

Sports and recreation

Softball — Senior Recreation Council 12 a.m.

Pinecliff Park, 8350 Pinecliff Park Road, Frederick.

Requires $10 annual dues. See website. April-September. Wednesday: Practice at 6 p.m. Friday: Games at 6:30 p.m. Associated activity costs. Contact coordinator. Activity is open to women over 40 and men over 50.

Contact: Adrian Winpigler, 301-662-6623. https://srcfrederick.org

THURSDAY, June 13

Other

Senior Cafe: The Place to Come for Coffee, Conversation, Friendship and Fun Events 10-11 a.m.

Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville.

Join us for a nutrition class and get a free healthy snack with a visit from Farm 2 Schools.

Contact: Walkersville Library, 301-600-8200.

https://FCPL.org

Bridge Thursday: Senior Recreation Council

1-4 p.m.

Spring Ridge Senior Apartments, 6351 Spring Ridge Parkway, Frederick.

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 the Senior Recreation Center. 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, June 14

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 Janssen, jsusan481@aol. com, 301-695-1785.

Cost: $2.

https://srcfrederick.org

Sports and recreation

Softball — Senior Recreation Council

12 a.m.

Pinecliff Park, 8350 Pinecliff Park Road, Frederick.

Requires $10 annual dues. See website. April-September. Wednesday: Practice at 6 p.m. Friday: Games at 6:30 p.m. Associated activity costs. Contact coordinator. Activity is open to women over 40 and men over 50.

Contact: Adrian Winpigler, 301-662-6623.

https://srcfrederick.org

Bocce — Senior Recreation Council

8 a.m.-12 p.m.

Baker Park Bocce courts, Frederick.

Requires $10 annual dues see website for details.

Contact: Terri Baker, cyclechick54@outlook. com, 301-508-0283.

https://srcfrederick.org

MONDAY, June 17

Classes workshops and lectures

Beach Scene in Watercolor

1-3 p.m.

Emmitsburg Senior Center, 300A S. Seton Ave., Emmitsburg.

Create a beach scene using watercolor. New and returning students welcome!

Instructor: Dorothea Barrick. Pre-register.

Contact: Caitlyn Kirby, emmitsburgseniorcenter@ frederickcountymd.gov, 301-600-6350.

Cost: $15.

http://frederickcountymd.gov/8075/50Community-Centers

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 Janssen, jsusan481@aol. com, 301-695-1785.

Cost: $2.

https://srcfrederick.org

Other

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, 908-7976539.

https://srcfrederick.org

WEDNESDAY, June 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 Janssen, jsusan481@aol. com, 301-695-1785.

Cost: $2.

https://srcfrederick.org

Sports and recreation

Softball — Senior Recreation Council 12 a.m.

Pinecliff Park, 8350 Pinecliff Park Road, Frederick.

Requires $10 annual dues. See website. April-September. Wednesday: Practice at 6 p.m. Friday: Games at 6:30 p.m. Associated activity costs. Contact coordinator. Activity is open to women over 40 and men over 50.

Contact: Adrian Winpigler, 301-662-6623. https://srcfrederick.org

THURSDAY, June 20

Other

Bridge Thursday: Senior Recreation Council

1-4 p.m.

Spring Ridge Senior Apartments, 6351 Spring Ridge Parkway, Frederick.

Requires $10 annual dues. See website. Contact coordinator to reserve seat.

Contact: Judy Bell, 336-662-2889. https://srcfrederick.org

Sports and recreation

Bicycling — Senior Recreation Council 9 a.m.

Locations vary.

Requires $10 annual dues see website. Meeting locations vary, depending on ride location contact coordinator.

Contact: Kathy Araiza, myjamis1@gmail. com, 301-606-0064. https://srcfrederick.org

Open Duckpin Bowling 1-3 p.m.

Walkersville Lanes, 44 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Walkersville.

Hosted by the Senior Recreation Center.

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, June 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 Janssen, jsusan481@aol. com, 301-695-1785.

Cost: $2.

https://srcfrederick.org

Other

Groceries for Seniors 12-1:30 p.m.

Frederick Senior Center , 1440 Taney Ave., Frederick.

A free monthly distribution of seasonal produce, canned goods, and shelf stable products. This is a “farmer’s market” style distribution located inside of the Frederick Senior Center. All Frederick County residents age 60+ with an income below $1,450 per month are eligible to participate. Please bring a photo ID to register the first time. Groceries for Seniors is offered on the third Friday of each month. Contact: Division of Aging & Independence, DAI@frederickcountymd. gov, 301-600-1234.

http://www.frederickcountymd.gov

Sports and recreation

Softball — Senior Recreation Council 12 a.m.

Pinecliff Park, 8350 Pinecliff Park Road, Frederick.

JUNE CALENDAR

Requires $10 annual dues. See website. April-September. Wednesday: Practice at 6 p.m. Friday: Games at 6:30 p.m. Associated activity costs. Contact coordinator. Activity is open to women over 40 and men over 50.

Contact: Adrian Winpigler, 301-662-6623. https://srcfrederick.org

Bocce — Senior Recreation Council

8 a.m.-12 p.m.

Baker Park Bocce courts, Frederick.

Requires $10 annual dues see website for details.

Contact: Terri Baker, cyclechick54@ outlook.com, 301-508-0283.

https://srcfrederick.org

SUNDAY, June 23

Other

BrainDrain Escapes

1-3 p.m.

Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville.

Use your collective wits and skills, search for clues, solve puzzles, crack codes, and unravel riddles to conquer a mobile escape room’s mission before time runs out. 18 and older.

Contact: Walkersville Library, 301-6008200.

https://FCPL.org

MONDAY, June 24

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 Janssen, jsusan481@aol. com, 301-695-1785.

Cost: $2.

https://srcfrederick.org

Seniors Helping Seniors: Mental Health Support

10-11 a.m.

Virtual Senior Center , Frederick .

Designed to give seniors practical tools if a friend or family member needs immediate mental health support. (This is not therapy or counseling, but it reviews what to listen for, what to ask and what to do when mental health support is

needed. Presenter: Dr. Miriam Dobson Director, Community Health Services Frederick County Health Department.

Contact: Virtual Senior Center, virtualseniorcenter@frederickcountymd. gov, 301-788-1075.

https://www.frederickcountymd. gov/8075/50-Community-Centers

TUESDAY, June 25

Government and politics

Maryland General Assembly Recap

12:30-1:30 p.m.

Virtual Senior Center , Frederick.

Learn about laws and bills that may impact you! This presentation is a recap of this year’s Maryland General Assembly. Presenter: Victoria Venable, Frederick County Director of Government Relations and Strategic Partnerships Virtual Free, pre-register.

Contact: Virtual Senior Center, virtualseniorcenter@frederickcountymd. gov, 301-788-1075.

WEDNESDAY, June 26

Government and politics

”Black Homesteaders in Nebraska: Audacious Dreams”

2:30-3:30 p.m.

Virtual Senior Center via Zoom, Frederick. The Homestead Act of 1862 provided African Americans with the prospect of land and home ownership, an attractive alternative to racial violence and social disenfranchisement in the post-Reconstruction South. In Nebraska, independent Black homesteaders built successful farms from eastern tallgrass prairies to the arid Sandhills in the west. Black homesteaders also created intentional communities like Audacious. In this presentation, a park ranger will discuss how Nebraska’s geography and history shaped and was shaped by the experiences of black homesteaders. Preregister.

Contact: Virtual Senior Center, virtualseniorcenter@frederickcountymd. gov, 3017881075.

http://frederickcountymd.gov/8075/50Community-Centers

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 Janssen, jsusan481@aol. com, 301-695-1785.

Cost: $2.

https://srcfrederick.org

Other

Sensory Program for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities: Karaoke 10-11 a.m.

Walkersville Branch Library, 2 S. Glade Road, Walkersville.

Bring your singing voice and dancing shoes and sing/dance along to the music! 18 and older.

Contact: Walkersville Branch Library, 301600-8200.

http://fcpl.org

Sports and recreation

Softball — Senior Recreation Council 12 a.m.

Pinecliff Park, 8350 Pinecliff Park Road, Frederick.

Requires $10 annual dues. See website. April-September. Wednesday: Practice at 6 p.m. Friday: Games at 6:30 p.m.

Associated activity costs. Contact coordinator. Activity is open to women over 40 and men over 50.

Contact: Adrian Winpigler, 301-662-6623.

https://srcfrederick.org

THURSDAY, June 27

Classes workshops and lectures

Senior Cafe: The Place to Come for Coffee, Conversation, Friendship and Fun Eventsf 10-11 a.m.

Walkersville Branch Library, 2 South Glade Rd, Walkersville.

Ever wanted to learn calligraphy? Here is your chance to learn and practice the art of decorative handwriting! Pre-register.

Contact: Walkersville Library, 301-6008200.

https://FCPL.org

Other

Bridge Thursday: Senior Recreation Council

1-4 p.m.

Spring Ridge Senior Apartments, 6351 Spring Ridge Parkway, Frederick.

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 the Senior Recreation Center. 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

Taney Book Club — Senior Recreation Council

2:30-3:30 p.m.

Frederick Senior Center, 1440 Taney Ave., Frederick.

Requires $10 annual dues, see website for details.

Contact: Mary Ann Foltz, mafoltz919@ verizon.net, 301-662-6199.

https://srcfrederick.org

FRIDAY, June 28

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 Janssen, jsusan481@aol. com, 301-695-1785.

Cost: $2.

https://srcfrederick.org

Sports and recreation

Softball — Senior Recreation Council 12 a.m.

Pinecliff Park, 8350 Pinecliff Park Road, Frederick.

Requires $10 annual dues. See website. April-September. Wednesday: Practice at 6 p.m. Friday: Games at 6:30 p.m. Associated activity costs. Contact coordinator. Activity is open to women over 40 and men over 50.

Contact: Adrian Winpigler, 301-662-6623. https://srcfrederick.org

Bocce — Senior Recreation Council

8 a.m.-12 p.m.

Baker Park Bocce courts, Frederick.

Requires $10 annual dues see website for details.

Contact: Terri Baker, cyclechick54@ outlook.com, 301-508-0283. https://srcfrederick.org

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

CLUES ACROSS

1. Baby’s dining accessory

4. Something free

8. Ancient Egyptian deity

10. Set-like mathematical categories

11. Top-quality

12. Expansive

13. Seizure

15. People with congenital absence of pigment

16. Gains

17. Mocked online

18. Clint’s son

21. Body part

22. Humor

23. Code number

24. Your physique

25. Family of regulator genes

26. LA football player (abbr.)

27. “The Blonde Bombshell”

34. Charity

35. Bluish greens

36. Examined closely

37. A type of equation

38. Stretched uncomfortably

39. Indian religious god

40. Clocks

41. Slowly leak through

42. Witnesses

43. Midway between

south and southeast

CLUES DOWN

1. Nestlings

2. Induces vomiting

3. A place to eat

4. Partner in the air

5. Offered one’s take

6. Nobel-winning French biologist

7. Farm animals

9. Prevent from growing

10. Sensationalist periodical

12. Soft-bodied beetle

14. Very fast airplane

15. Imaginative creation

17. Recipe measurement (abbr.)

19. Evoked a response

20. French river

23. Shiny yellow minerals

24. Make illegal

25. U.S. military branch

26. River in France and Belgium

27. A woman of refinement

28. Male child

29. Type of medication

30. German city

31. Animal disease

32. Mediterranean dietary staple

33. Sneak out

34. Radioactivity unit

36. Performs on stage

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!

June Open House and Vendor Fair

June

18, 2024

Thinking of moving to a retirement community?

Let Homewood at Frederick help make the process an easy one!

Registration at The Lodge

Begins at 12:45 p.m.

500 Pearson Circle Frederick, MD

Vendor Fair Begins at 1:00 p.m.

Vendors will include moving companies, downsizing specialists, and realtors.

Self Guided Tours of Patio Homes and The Lodge

1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Light refreshments will be served. Limited space available.

RSVP by June 10th to Laura at (301) 732-6157 or LAWhitesell@hmwd.org

“No person shall be subject, on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, familial status or disability, to discrimination in the terms or conditions for admission to, treatment or the provision of services in, one of our communities.”