The Center Post - February 2023

MONDAY, FEB 6 • 8:30 AM

BREAKFAST CLUB

Meet at la Madeleine on Crown Park Ave. in Downtown Crown for a delightful breakfast just the way you like. The authentic French fare offered here is the best way to celebrate with your friends as you start the day! Order from the menu and pay on your own. ................................................................

THURSDAY, FEB 9 • 12:45 PM cookies

and police

Community Services Officer, Holly Kramer and her colleagues are at the Center for yet another interactive program. This time it is decorating cookies! Cookies, frosting and sprinkles provided. Just bring your smile and happy to do attitude for a fun afternoon. Free. Registration required. ................................................................

TUESDAY, FEB 21 • 4 PM

happy hour

TUESDAY, FEB 14 • 12:30 PM

CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S WITH CHRISTIANA DRAPKIN

THURSDAY, FEB 16 • 12:45 PM

BIRTHDAY PARTY

Norma Graham

Vilma Beckman

Cathy Missal

Dena Horton

Susan Wilson

Betsy Darracott

Ameedah Rashid

Gilbert Gus Mina Petrone

Gary Loomis

Betty Dooley, Gail Newrock

Belinda Adams

Lata Deheragoda

Gail Hornig

Free. Registration Required.

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP & FEES

It is February and we are celebrating Black History Month! Join us in honoring the contributions of African Americans and how their experiences have shaped the United States. Make sure to check out our African American Film Festival, join us for “Uncloaked 2,” dine with us at Ooh’s and Aahh’s, or travel with us to the Banneker-Douglass Museum.

February is also Healthy Heart Month. Take the time to strengthen your heart with exercise, healthy eating, and the number one thing you can do: Hang out with a friend! Come spend time this February at the BGC, it is not only good for your health, you might learn something too!

I’ll BGC-ing you!

Charlyn Simpson

FRIDAY, MAR 17 • 12:45 PM

ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION

Dress in green and get ready to celebrate because everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day! We will celebrate our good luck with entertainment and fun. Light refreshments served.

Fee { Free Members; $5 NonMembers } … Deadline { Mar 13 }

activity center at bohrer park FITNESS CENTER

If a person wants to go on a trip or attend a program and is not a member, they may join the Center for a 30-day period (City residents: $10, nonresidents: $25). During the period they have all the privileges of a member, and if they decide to join for a year during the first 30 days, the cost of their 30-day trial will be applied toward an annual membership. Please note that cumulative one-month membership fees will not apply.

THURSDAY, FEB 16 • 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM

Senior Information and Assistance

Do you need information on senior housing, financial assistance, Medicare, Medicaid, or help filling out forms? Please call the Front Desk at 301.258.6380 to make an appointment with Tracy Carter of the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services.

inclement weather

emergency closing policy

• If Montgomery County Public Schools are closed due to inclement weather, the Benjamin Gaither Center will be closed.

• If Montgomery County Public Schools have a delayed opening, the Benjamin Gaither Center will open at 10 a.m.; classes and programs scheduled before 10 a.m. will be canceled, classes and programs scheduled at 10 a.m. or later will run; City transportation will be provided with pick-ups starting at 10 a.m.; transportation on the County bus is canceled.

• If Montgomery County Public Schools have an early dismissal, afternoon and evening classes and programs are canceled; City transportation will be provided before the regular 2 p.m. departure time; County transportation will be provided at the regular 2 p.m. departure time or earlier as available.

• In the event of inclement weather or an emergency on a weekend or holiday, please call 301-258-6380 or go to the City’s website gaithersburgmd.gov to learn about cancellations and closures.

TUESDAYS • 11 AM (VIRTUAL)

COPING WITH CHANGE

FRIDAY,

FRIDAY, FEB 24 • BY APPOINTMENT

PODIATRIST SERVICES

Sign up at the front desk for an appointment with one of the doctors from Maple Springs Foot Center. Most insurances are accepted, including Medicare.

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TUESDAY, FEB 21 • 10 AM

BLOOD PRESSURE SCREENING

Blood pressure screening onsite with nursing students of Montgomery College.

Are you not bouncing back like you used to? Learn how to roll with the punches by joining our group discussion facilitated by Jamie Lomison, LCPC from Senior Services at The Affiliated Santé Group. Email: jlomison@santegroup.org to receive the zoom link. Free. Individual appointments available by calling 301.741.7764. .............................................................

TUESDAY, FEB 7 • 11

BRAIN GAMES

AM

Community Angels Nursing Services team are available on site with fun brainteaser games to test your knowledge. This program is offered as an extension of the Memory Care Screening. Free.

• 10 AM – NOON mini health fair

FEB 17

Make your health your priority. Join us for the community health fair brought to you by CCACC. The fair will have health screenings, bone density test, fall prevention training, mental health screening, medical consultation and health benefit consultation. Light refreshments provided. Free.

tech corner

FRIDAYS • 11 AM COMPUTER HELP!

Do you have a computer question? We have the answers. Visit the computer lab, and a volunteer will be available to answer your questions. Free. Please call 301-258-6380 before coming to check for availability.

ATTENTION PLEASE

Out of an abundance of caution, it is advised to have your COVID Vaccine information and a mask with you when going on trips. Proof of vaccine and masks are being required at more and more venues.

FRIDAY, FEB 3 • 9:30 AM – 2 PM WASHINGTON, DC

NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART-VITTORE CARPACCIO: MASTER STORYTELLER OF RENAISSANCE VENICE

A leading figure in the art of Renaissance Venice, Vittore Carpaccio is best known for his large, spectacular narrative paintings that brought sacred history to life. Although for centuries he has been loved and celebrated in his native city for his observant eye, fertile imagination, and storytelling prowess, this exhibition marks the first retrospective of the artist ever held outside Italy. Lunch on your own in one of the restaurants in the Gallery. Please bring Cash.

Fee { $20 } … Deadline { Feb 1 }

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WEDNESDAY, FEB 8 • 10:30 AM –4:30 PM • WASHINGTON, DC

“RIDE THE CYCLONE” AT ARENA STAGE

Part comedy, part tragedy and wholly unexpected, this wildly imaginative story delivers surprises at every turn. The lives of six teenagers from a Canadian chamber choir are cut short in a freak accident aboard a roller coaster. A mechanical fortuneteller invites each to tell their story of a life interrupted, offering the chance

to come to terms with their fates. At once quirky and smart, edgy and beautiful, “Ride the Cyclone” ultimately reveals the resilience of the human spirit in spite of senseless tragedy.

Fee { $63 } ................................................................

FRIDAY, FEB 10 • 9 AM – 3 PM ANNAPOLIS, MD

BANNEKER-DOUGLASS MUSEUM

As the State of Maryland’s official museum of African American heritage, the Banneker-Douglass Museum serves to document, to interpret, and to promote African American history and culture (particularly in Maryland) through exhibitions, programs, and projects in order to improve the understanding and appreciation of America’s rich cultural diversity for all. The museum currently holds the exhibit “The Radical Voice of Blackness Speaks of Resistance and Joy”. It is an exhibit to see as we celebrate Black History Month.

Fee { $20 }… Deadline { Feb 8 } ................................................................

WEDNESDAY, FEB 15 9:45 AM – 4:30 PM • COLUMBIA, MD

“SOMETHING ROTTEN” AT TOBY’S

Set in the 1590’s, brothers Nick and Nigel Bottom are desperate to write a hit play but are stuck in the shadow of a “Renaissance Rockstar.” When a local soothsayer foretells that the future of theatre involves singing, dancing and acting at the same time, they set out to write the world’s first MUSICAL! Critics and audiences alike went wild for SOMETHING ROTTEN,

an outrageous, crowd-pleasing musical farce hailed by Time Out New York as, “the funniest musical comedy in at least 400 years.” Buffet lunch, dessert, tea or coffee, and tip included.

Fee { $83 } ................................................................

THURSDAY, FEB 23 • 10:15 AM – 2 PM OAKTON, VA

GALLOPING GOURMETS TO MAMA TIGRE

Celebrate the wonderful menu that this Mexican-Indian Fusion establishment creates! Reviewed as having some of the best Tacos and Margaritas in the area! With the base of native Mexican comfort cuisine, Chef Prakash infuses an array of exotic and complex spices, some of which are native to her motherland, India, making the ordinary, extraordinary and exciting. Please bring cash, as there will not be separate checks.

Fee { $20 }… Deadline { Feb 21 }

MONDAY, FEB 27 • 11:20 AM – 3 PM WASHINGTON, DC

YEAR OF THE WORLD CUISINES STOP #6: OOHH’S & AAHH’S

Check out this highly rated Soul Food Joint featured on Diners, Drive-in’s and Dives. The Washington Post rated them as having the Best Mac & Cheese in D.C. Serving the locals since 2003, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed. Please bring cash.

Fee { $20 }… Deadline { Feb 23 }

WEDNESDAY, MAR 29 • 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM • WASHINGTON, DC

“THE HIGH GROUND” AT ARENA STAGE

A Black man in an army uniform stands his ground atop Tulsa’s Standpipe Hill, bearing witness to the destruction and desecration of Tulsa’s Greenwood District — but other forces, both friendly and hostile, conspire to remove him. A play in conversation with Tulsa, Oklahoma’s 1921 race massacre, The High Ground offers a complex portrait of what it means to root, to resist and to proceed from devastation.

Fee { $63 } … Deadline { Feb 23 }

COLORING BOOK

BOOK DISCUSSIONS

Thursday, February 9 • 2 PM “Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee” by Dee Brown

Thursday, March 9 • 2 PM “Greenlights” by Matthew McConaughey

MONDAYS AT 11 AM

Coloring books for adults are a popular trend and the activity is actually good for you. Coloring is relaxing, social, reduces stress and anxiety, trains your brain to focus, helps your fine motor skills and vision, and gives you a chance to express your originality. All supplies will be provided.

Fee { $2 }

MOVIE AFTERNOONS

Thursdays at 1 PM

Enjoy and discuss a movie every week. Call ahead to find out what movie will be playing.

MEMBER ORIENTATION

Monday, Feb 6 • 11 AM

Come learn the ins and outs of the Center. Call the front desk at 301.258.6380 to sign up and bring your Welcome Packet with you.

MONDAYS • 11 AM

POWER STRETCH

Improve your flexibility. This class will address muscular imbalances, body alignment, proper breath control, range of motion, elongation and posture. .............................................................

MON, WED, FRI • 10 AM

fit 4 all

Low or no-impact aerobics appropriate for those who prefer a seated workout as well as those wanting moderate standing exercise.

TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS • 10 AM

stretch & strengthen

Tone muscles while strengthening heart and lungs. All abilities welcome.

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TUESDAYS & FRIDAYS • 11 AM

weight training

Good balance and a strong core go hand in hand. This is a partially seated resistance training class for all fitness levels.

These fitness classes, taught by nationally certified instructors, have a $2 charge

TUESDAY, JAN 10 – MAR 28 • 9:15 AM

THURSDAY, JAN 12 – MAR 30 • 9:15 AM

hit

Low Impact High-intensity Interval Training

taught by Denise Mornini

Interval endurance training for the athletic adult. Warm up, and then go into high-intensity bursts (run or power walk, interspersed with recovery periods using other muscle groups) followed by balance challenges, strength training and floor work.

Fee: Tuesdays { $60 } Thursdays { $60 }

TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS • 8:25 AM

walking tape

Wake up with a brisk two mile workout.

BY APPOINTMENT

personal training

Fee { $20 for 30 minutes }

WEDNESDAYS • 11 AM coreandstretch

After a gradual warm up, the class will alternate between balanced toning exercises derived from Pilates and replenishing stretches derived from Yoga. Chairs and light hand weights are used. .............................................................

WEDNESDAYS & FRIDAYS • 9 AM

DANCE RHYTHM

A fun cardio dance workout that tones the entire body. This class offers easy-to-follow, lowimpact aerobic dance moves for all fitness levels. We make sure your workout is safe, intense and gratifying.

TUESDAY, MAR 7 – APR 25 • 12 PM

HATHA YOGA WITH JANE STELBOUM

Instructor Jane Stelboum is back with even more techniques to share. This class offers instruction on yoga poses, somatic breathing and movement, healthy/happy back therapy, and meditation. Learn proper and safe alignment. Modifications offered to suit your own body and ability. Dress comfortably. Bring your own mat or use one of ours. Yoga mats are recommended. Bring your own or use the Center's.

Fee { 75 }

MONDAY - FRIDAY, FEB 6 – MAR 3 (NO CLASS: 2/20)

VIRTUAL EXERCISE CLASSES

Take one class or take them all! Register online and you will receive a Zoom link that lets you participate in a month’s worth of classes for one price.

Members { $25 } Non-members { $35 } TimeMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFriday 9 a.m. Dance Rhythm 10 a.m.Fit 4 All Stretch & Strengthen Fit 4 All Stretch & Strengthen 11 a.m. Power Stretch Weight Training Core & Stretch

THURSDAYS, MAR 9 – APR 27 • 11 AM

BALLET FOR FITNESS

This unique exercise class uses ballet moves for improving strength and conditioning. Ballet for Fitness is a total body workout that features movements that engage your mind and have you moving to music. Join instructor Becci Kim as she leads you through your workout. No previous ballet experience is required.

Fee { $70 Members, $90 NonMembers }

MON & WED, JAN 9 – MAR 29 • 8:45 AM (NO CLASSES: 2/20)

BONE BUILDERS

Bone Builders is a free, volunteer-led exercise program for ages 55+ in partnership with the Montgomery County Departments of Recreation and Health and Human Services, and the RSVP volunteer program. Full. .....................................................................................................

MONDAYS, MAR 6 – APR 10 • 11 AM

CHAIR YOGA

Instructor Archana Gupta will provide instruction on yoga poses that benefits in increasing mobility and strength, stretching the body, reducing stress and pain, and clearing the mind. This class is designed to allow you to use the support of a chair to perform yoga poses, move, breathe and ultimately feel good.

Fee { $48 Members, $58 NonMembers }

WEDNESDAYS, MAR 8 – APR 12• 12:30 PM

LINE DANCE – PARTY FAVORITES

Are you ready for the next social gathering? Come and learn classic party line dances and the latest contemporary favorites. No dance experience needed. Taught by Robin Marshall.

Fee { $38 Members, $48 NonMembers }

WEDNESDAYS, JAN 11 – MAR 29 • 5:15 PM

TAI CHI BEGINNING

Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese movement form practiced by millions to exercise the body, calm the mind and uplift the spirit. It benefits the average person, athletes or those recovering from injuries or back problems. Wear loose clothing.

Fee { $78 } ....................................................................................................

FRIDAYS, MAR 24 – MAY 5 • 11 AM

THRIVE WITH ARTHRITIS/CHRONIC PAIN (SEVEN WEEK PROGRAM)

This class improves mobility and decreases pain in individuals who suffer from arthritis/chronic pain through exercise. The class will increase motivation and confidence as a group through education, goal-setting and team-building. Create a sense of community among participants through group discussions and socialization and improve mental wellbeing. Taught by Becca Gedalowitz.

Fee { $45 Members, $55 NonMembers }

classes & lectures

WEDNESDAYS • 1 PM

CROCHET BABY BLANKETS WITH ELIZABETH

Be creative for a good cause. Chat while you crochet and knit baby blankets for local newborns. Yarn will be provided.

FRIDAYS • 12:15 PM

QUILTING

Quilt with your peers, socialize and get their input. All abilities and skill levels are welcome! ................................................................

TUESDAY, MAR 7 – MAR 28 • 1 PM

SPANISH CONVERSATION

Learn or brush up on your everyday conversational Spanish. Taught by Olympia Kozielski.

Fee { $20 Members, $30 NonMembers } ................................................................

MONDAYS, MAR 6 – APR 10 • 2 – 4 PM

DRAWING BASICS

A drawing course focusing on pencil work beginning with qualities of line, basic geometric shapes, value studies, and forms while reviewing materials. Artists will be drawing a still life with step-by-step instructions for the beginning level, and more complex still lifes for advanced levels. The class will also use photographs as references. This course will provide drawing opportunities for every level whether you are a

beginner or an experienced artist. Bring your own supplies. Taught by artist Doris Bryant.

Fee { $69 Members, $89 NonMembers }

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WEDNESDAYS, APR 12 – MAY 31 2 – 4 PM

WATERCOLOR

Join accomplished artist and instructor Susan Herron as she guides you through watercolor techniques. Susan takes great pleasure in teaching. Her goal is to give the beginning students a solid foundation of skills and to give intermediate students a creative challenge and the desire for a personal artistic vision. Bring your own supplies.

Fee: {$98}

MONDAY, FEB 6 • 12:30 PM

UNCLOAKED 2

A documentary that explores the continued peril America faces institutionalized racism while challenging some of our most basic assumptions about race in America. Filmmaker Robert Williams debunks the most widely accepted myths regarding slavery, segregation, classism and racial politics in this hard hitting sequel to 2022's Uncloaked. Showing exclusively at the Benjamin Gaither Center for Black History month. This showing will be followed by a Director’s Q&A discussion. Free.

TUESDAYS, FEB 7 - 28 • 11 AM

AFRICAN AMERICAN FILM FESTIVAL

The African American Film Festival (AAFF) is proudly hosted by the Benjamin Gaither Center and will present four critically

acclaimed African American films throughout the month of February. The festival kicks off on Feb 7th and will commence every following Tuesday for the entire month of February. Free.

FEB 7: “Green Book”

FEB 14: “Luce”

FEB 21: “Alice”

FEB 28: “Fences”

MONDAY, FEB 13 • 12:30 PM

TRAVELS, TOURS & ADVENTURES (AFRICAN SAFARI) WITH TOM & NANCY PALKER

Join fellow members Tom and Nancy Palker as they share the details, including pictures and stories, of their African Safari. A discussion not to be missed. Free. ................................................................

WEDNESDAY, FEB 22 • 11 AM

BRAIN HEALTH WITH ASBURY METHODIST VILLAGE

Belinda A. S. Degboe, Wellness Manager at Asbury Methodist Village will be at the Center to speak about the Brian Fitness program, Parkinson’s program and membership offerings to the community by Asbury Methodist Village. Afterwards we will visit the Brain Health Center of Excellence at Asbury Methodist Village on Friday, February 24 at 10:00 am to get a closer view of the facility and its offerings. Free. Registration required to visit the Brain Health Center at Asbury Methodist Village.

en español

LUNES 6 DE FEBRERO • 8:30 AM

CLUB DE DESAYUNO

Este mes nos reuniremos en el restaurante “La Madeleine” que está ubicado en Crown Park Ave., en el centro de Crown para disfrutar de un delicioso desayuno como a usted le gusta. ¡La auténtica comida francesa que se ofrece ahí es la mejor manera de celebrar con sus amigos y comenzar un buen día! Podrá ordenar del menú y pagar por su cuenta.

JUEVES 9 DE FEBRERO • 12:45 PM

DECORANDO GALLETAS JUNTO A UNOS AGENTES DE LA POLICíA

La Oficial de Servicios Comunitarios, Holly Kramer y sus colegas estarán en el centro para auspiciar otro programa interactivo. ¡Esta vez se trata de decorar galletas! Se proporcionan las galletas y todo lo que necesite para decorarlas. Solo traiga su sonrisa y una actitud feliz para pasar una tarde divertida. Costo: gratis

MARTES 14 DE FEBRERO • 12:30 PM

CELEBRADO EL DíA DE SAN VALENTÍN CON CHRISTIANA

DRAPKIN

¡El amor está en el aire! Esta será una tarde para sentarse, relajarse, escuchar y bailar melodías románticas interpretadas por Christiana Drapkin. ¡Se ofrecerán dulces y bebidas para disfrutar de un buen tiempo!

Cuota { Miembros Gratis; $5 No miembros } … Fecha límite { 9 de febrero }

VIERNES 17 DE MARZO • 12:45 PM

CELEBRANDO EL DíA DE SAN PATRICIO

¡Vístase de color verde y prepárese para celebrar porque en el Día de San Patricio todos somos irlandeses! Celebraremos nuestra buena suerte con entretenimiento y diversión. Se ofrecerán refrescos.

Cuota { Miembros Gratis; $5 No miembros } … Fecha límite { 13 de marzo} .................................................................

MARTES 7 DE FEBRERO • 11 AM

JUEGOS MENTALES

El equipo de Servicios de Enfermería de La Comunidad de Ángeles estará en el Centro ofreciendo juegos divertidos de acertijos para poder evaluar sus conocimientos y al mismo tiempo divertirse. Este programa se ofrece como una extensión de la evaluación del cuidado de la memoria y será gratis.

JUEVES 23 DE FEBRERO • 10:15 AM –2 PM • OAKTON, VA

GALOPANDO CON ELEGANCIA AL RESTAURANTE TIGRE DE MAMá

¡Disfrute de un maravilloso menú que este establecimiento ha creado con una fusión al estilo Mejicano y de la India!. Según las encuestas dicen que este restaurante ofrece los mejores tacos y margaritas de la zona con la base de la cocina reconfortante nativa mexicana. El chef Prakash infunde una variedad de especias exóticas y complejas, algunas de las cuales son nativas de su tierra natal de la India, convirtiendo

lo ordinario en extraordinario y delicioso. Por favor, lleve dinero efectivo, ya que no habrá cheques separados.

Cuota { $20 } … Fecha límite { 23 de febrero } .................................................................

AVISO: EL CENTRO ESTARA CERRADO EL DIA 20 DE FEBRERO

POLIZA DE EMERGENCIA DURANTE EL INVIERNO

• Si las Escuelas Públicas del Condado de Montgomery están cerradas debido a las inclemencias del tiempo, el Centro Benjamin Gaither también estará cerrado y si abren con retraso, el Centro abrirá a las 10 AM.

Las clases y actividades programados antes de las 10 AM se llevarán a cabo. El transporte de la Ciudad recogerá a los miembros que tengan reservación a partir de las 10 AM. El transporte del condado se cancelará.

• Si las Escuelas Públicas del Condado de Montgomery anuncian que la salida será más temprano de lo usual, las clases y programas de la tarde y noche en el Centro se cancelaran. El transporte de la Ciudad llevara a los miembros a sus casas antes de las 2 pm. El transporte del condado saldrá a las 2 p.m. o antes posible.

• En caso de mal tiempo o una emergencia durante un fin de semana o día festivo, llame al 301.258.6380 o visite el sitio web de la ciudad www.gaithersburgmd. gov para obtener información sobre cancelaciones y cierres.

Jan 9 – Mar 29M & WN/A 13219H.I.T

Jan 10 – Mar 28 Tue $60 13373Tai Chi Beginning Jan 11 – Mar 29 Wed $78 13220H.I.T

Jan 12 – Mar 30Thu$60 14032

2/20)Feb 6 – Mar 3MTWRF$25 14037Chair

Mar 6 – Apr 10Mon$48 14038Drawing Basics Mar 6 – Apr 10Mon$69 14033Hatha

Mar 7 – Apr 25 Tue $75 14034Spanish

Mar 7 – Mar 28 Tue $20 14040Line

Mar 8 – Apr 12 Wed $38 14035Ballet

Mar 9 – Apr 27Thu$70 14036Thrive

Mar 24 – May 5Fri$45 14039Watercolor Apr 12 – May 31 Wed $98 Activities

14041Breakfast Club at la Madeleine

Feb 6 MonN/A 14042Cookies and Police Feb 9 ThuN/A 13963Celebrating Valentine’s with Christiana DrapkinFeb 14 Tue N/A 14043Birthday Party Feb 16 FriN/A 14049Brain Health Center Visit to Asbury Methodist VillageFeb 24 FriN/A 14050St. Patrick’s Day Celebration Mar 17 FriN/A

Trips

14044National Gallery of Art

Feb 3 Fri$20 13969“Ride the Cyclone” at Arena Stage Feb 8 Wed $63 14045Banneker-Douglass Museum Feb 10 Fri$20 13970“Something Rotten” at Toby’s Feb 15 Wed $83 14046Galloping Gourmets to Mama Tigre Feb 23 Thu$20 14047World Cuisine Stop #6: Oohh’s & Aahh’s Feb 27 Mon$20 14048“The High Ground” at Arena Stage Mar 29 Wed $63

CITY OF GAITHERSBURG

BENJAMIN GAITHER CENTER ACTIVITY RELEASE FOR MEMBERS

When participating in on-site activities at the Benjamin Gaither Center, I agree to the following:

1. I am aware that while participating in a recreation activity or program offered by the City of Gaithersburg Department of Parks, Recreation and Culture, certain risks and dangers may be present, including, but not limited to, the hazards of traveling public highways, of accidents, of injury, of illness and the forces of nature.

2. I attest and verify that I have full knowledge of the risk involved in physical fitness activities and that I have obtained approval from my physician to participate in the same.

3. In consideration of the right to participate in the above referenced activities or programs and in further consideration of the arrangements made for me by the City of Gaithersburg through its Department of Parks, Recreation and Culture, I do hereby, on behalf of myself, my heirs, executors, administrators, and assigns, assume the above mentioned and all other risks, and do further release and hold harmless and indemnify the City of Gaithersburg and the Mayor and City Council of Gaithersburg and all of the City’s agents, officers and employees from any and all claims for injuries or loss to my person or property or to the person or property of third parties which may arise out of or result from my participation in the above referenced program or activity.

4. I further grant permission for a doctor to administer emergency treatment to me in the event that a medical emergency requires such treatment.

5.I consent to the City’s use of photographs taken or videotapes made of program participants.

6. The City reserves the right to rescind the membership of individuals incapable of complying with the Benjamin Gaither Center policies due to medical conditions beyond the individual’s control as observed by the Center staff.

When participating in any off-site activities, I also agree:

1. To obey the rules and regulations for each activity, follow all directives and adhere to the agenda as outlined by the staff.

2. That if I do not clearly understand how an activity is performed or details of a trip, I will ask a staff member prior to the beginning of the program to clarify my questions.

3. To inform staff prior to the activity or trip if I have any problems meeting the physical requirements necessary for participation in the activity.

4. I agree to listen carefully to the details and timing of the trip and be fully prepared to meet and board the bus at the proper designated place and time. I understand that, in the City’s sole discretion, I may be responsible for paying any and all reasonable charges the City may incur as a result of my failure to meet and board the bus at the proper designated place and time.

Furthermore, I understand that as a participant of the program I will be expected to depart the Benjamin Gaither Center and return to the said location with the group. Any deviation from the activity itinerary will preclude me from participating in future trips, activities or other off-site adventures.

If you need special accommodations please call 301-258-6380, or e-mail gayathri.aluvihare@gaithersburgmd.gov

Describe any physical, psychiatric, behavioral or other concerns for which you will make a special request for a change/adaptation as a reasonable accommodation. The City is committed to making reasonable accommodations as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act and other applicable law. Requests must be made two weeks prior to the start of the program. Program entry may be delayed/denied if the request does not allow the City sufficient time to consider/arrange for the accommodations.

Do we have your updated Emergency Contact Information?

Name: Phone:

Signature:

Date: