Tel: (240) 620-3285
Email: information.fhnn@gmail.com
“Villages” is a nationwide movement of neighborhood organizations that help seniors age in place by providing social and individual support services and referrals offered by their neighbors on a volunteer basis. Neighborhood volunteers and supportive residents formed Friendship Heights Neighbors Network, or FHNN.
FHNN is a non-profit organization and is tax exempt under Section 501(c)(3). Contributions are tax deductible. We have trained volunteers to provide services to members, and we offer all members social events and educational programs. The programs can be found on the Events Calendar tab. As the membership grows, we will expand the range of services and the programs we offer.
Our Mission
The Friendship Heights Neighbors Network is a volunteer organization that provides members with support services and opportunities for social interaction to enable neighbors to remain active and engaged in their community. We believe that active, involved residents, both seniors and others in need of support, and volunteers willing to help them will build a stronger community for all.
The focus of our efforts is on the eight residential, high-rise buildings located in Friendship Heights, Maryland, and each residence has volunteer representatives:
| The Carleton | Noel McCaman | nmccaman@gmail.com |
| Highland House West & Highland House | Richard Goodman | goody1944@gmail.com |
| The Elizabeth | Constance Row Jim Jones | constancerow@comcast.net jonesjcz@gmail.com |
| The Willoughby | Nora Kish | nfk1015@gmail.com |
| Willard Towers | David Cohen | davidmcohen37@verizon.net |
| 4615 North Park | Sheila Footer | sfooter@yahoo.com |
| 4620 North Park |
Hazel Keimowitz |
hazelkeimowitz@gmail.com |
Constance Row, President 4601 N. Park Ave. Evan Smith, VP & Treasurer 4701 Willard Linda Herson Highland House West Pat Donovam 4620 N Park Noel McCaman The Carleton Nancy Peavy 4620 N Park David L. Rabin 4701 Willard Ave. James C. Jones 4601 N. Park Ave.
FHNN. Powered by Scan Archives © 2021 All Rights Reserved
Tel: (240) 620-3285
Email: information.fhnn@gmail.com
To apply for membership, please click on "Sign Up" at the top of any page on this website, then click on "Member." We look forward to hearing from you and will get back to you promptly.
FHNN members reside in the high-rise buildings of Friendship Heights:
| The Carleton | The Willoughby |
| The Elizabeth | Willard Towers |
| Highland House | 4620 North Park Avenue |
| Highland House West | 4615 North Park Avenue |
There are two kinds of memberships: social and full. We offer reduced prices on full memberships for those on limited, fixed income.
Recognizing the limitations imposed by the pandemic, FHNN has revised its membership dues for 2021 in the following manner:
Social Membership Annual Dues
Normal 2021
Individual.....................$300 $150*
Household (2) .............$450 $225*
*None if full annual dues have been paid in 2020
Recognizing the limitations imposed by the pandemic, FHNN has revised its membership dues for 2021 in the following manner:
Full Membership Annual Dues:
Normal 2021
Individual ................ $450 $225*
Household .............. $600 $300*
*None if full annual dues have been paid in 2020
We offer discounted rates for Full Memberships (call us for more information).
|
Individual Full Membership |
2-Adult Full Membership |
||
|
Gross Income |
Membership Fee |
Gross Income |
Membership Fee |
|
$0-$15,444 |
$0 |
$0-$20,826 |
$0 |
|
$15,445-$40,000 |
50% reduction |
$20,827-$50,000 |
50% reduction |
|
$40,001+ |
Full fee |
$50,001+ |
Full fee |
FHNN. Powered by Scan Archives © 2021 All Rights Reserved
Tel: (240) 620-3285
Email: information.fhnn@gmail.com
Interested in offering volunteer services to our members?
To learn more about FHNN volunteer opportunities, email us at the above address or volunteer.fhnn@gmail.com.
Volunteers make FHNN work and thrive. Together volunteers brought FHNN into existence. A group of volunteers first believed in the village concept, then formed a board and working committees. Now volunteers are involved in every aspect of the on-going tasks and are participating in our orientation classes so that they may provide direct services to members.
If you want to apply to be a volunteer, please click on Sign Up, then click on Volunteer from any page on this website. We'll get back to you promptly.
We hold orientation classes throughout the year to prepare volunteers to provide direct services to members. We conduct background checks to provide members with the greatest comfort.
Direct services to members include:
Transportation (to doctor appointments, grocery shopping, prescription pick up, etc.)
Technology support (computer or smart phone support),
Personal support (phone check in, friendly visits, pet care, plant care, organize papers, decluttering support), and,
Minor in-home tasks.
Volunteers are also needed for administrative support:
Accounting/bookkeeping
Event planning and logistical assistence
Fund raising
Marketing and Communications
Volunteer recruitment
Database management
Apply today to join this dynamic team.
FHNN. Powered by Scan Archives © 2021 All Rights Reserved
Thank you for your interest in Friendship Heights Neighbors Network. Membership dues cover only a fraction of our operating costs such as office space, supplies, staff and insurance. Community members and businesses understand the benefit of neighbors helping neighbors and support the network through generous donations. These donations are essential for a sustainable organization that provides the quality of services that the community needs.
If you would like to make a tax deductible donation, please either make an online donation by clicking the Donate tab below (and following the prompts) or sending a check payable to FHNN at the following address: FHNN, c/o Constance Row, 4601 N Park Ave, Apt 1719, Chevy Chase, MD 20815.
FHNN is registered with the IRS as a tax exempt 501(c)(3) organization so contributions to it are tax deductible. A copy of its current financial statement is available by writing to it at the above address. Documents and information submitted by it under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Maryland Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401, 410-974-5534.
Tax ID: 81-4015002
Thank you for visiting our Support Us page. If you have any questions, please call or email us.
(240) 620-3285
FHNN. Powered by Scan Archives © 2021 All Rights Reserved
Tel: (240) 620-3285
Email: information.fhnn@gmail.com
Part-Time Executive Director, Friendship Heights Neighbors Network
Friendship Heights Neighbors Network (FHNN) is a small nonprofit, part of the Villages movement nationwide, that helps seniors age in place through a variety of programs and volunteer-provided non-clinical services. The organization and its members are located in Friendship Heights, Chevy Chase, Maryland. See www.fhneighbors.org.
We seek a part-time Executive Director who will be responsible for operations and management with the assistance of one part time staff person. Included are member and volunteer recruitment, volunteer training, overseeing volunteers servicing member requests, developing programs, engaging in marketing and communications, fundraising, financial management and tax compliance, maintenance of website and databases, working with administrative volunteers and reporting to Board of Directors. Ideally, the Executive Director would also have the background to evaluate member needs and make referrals for needed services.
Number of hours per week: 20-30.
Compensation: $30 hour. Contractual position. Liability insurance for performance of duties provided but no other benefits. During the pandemic, the Executive Director would work from home most of the time.
Experience required: AA or BA required; advanced degree preferred. Strong administrative and organizational skills required including at a minimum managerial/project management experience. Strong written and spoken communications skills required. Computer skills required including use of Windows Suite including Excel, software for marketing and communications such as Constant Contact, and familiarity with basic financial management software such as QuickBooks . Experience with seniors and volunteers, Social Work, nursing case management or equivalent skills in client assessment and referral strongly desired. Marketing and fundraising experience helpful but not required.
Send your resume and letter of interest to FHNN c/o 4601 North Park #1719, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 or via email to information.fhnn@gmail.com.
* * *
Absentee ballots for the November election -- Request Online and Other Important Voter Information!
Governor Hogan has announced that the General Election will take place as scheduled on November 3, 2020, with early voting centers and all polling locations open. In addition, he directed the State Board of Elections to send an absentee ballot request application to every voter.
To receive an absentee ballot application, you must be registered to vote. If you are not, you can register online.
If you believe you're already registered to vote, check here or text 777-88 and type the word "check" as the message to confirm that you are registered. If you have moved, be sure to update your mailing address by October 13 to ensure that you receive an absentee ballot application and important notifications.
If you don't plan to vote in person this November, it's a good idea to start the application process for an absentee/mail-in ballot NOW. If you wait to receive a mail-in ballot application from from the state, there may be delays due to processing and staffing difficulties related to COVID-19.
To request your ballot, go online (below) and stipulate that a ballot be mailed to you by USPS. Don't have it emailed and then download and print it out, because if you don't use special ballot paper, ballot scanners won't be able to read how you voted. That will require election staff to manually copy and reenter the data so that it can be scanned.
Request your ballot here:
https://voterservices.elections.maryland.gov/OnlineVoterRegistration/InstructionsStep1
If you wish to vote early (Thursday, October 22, 2020 through Thursday, October 29, 2020 from 8 am until 8 pm), you can get more information by clicking the below link.
https://elections.maryland.gov/voting/early_voting.html
FHNN SEPTEMBER 13 FUNDRAISER
SAVE THE DATE: Please mark your calendar now for our FHNN Virtual Fundraiser on Sunday, September 13 at 3:00 pm!
Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh is the featured speaker at FHNN’s Fundraiser. On the agenda is the Attorney General’s opposition to Governor Hogan’s current plan of mailing applications (not ballots) to registered voters. Other issues include an extension of the moratorium on evictions, consumer protection, fraud and abuse, and other key state and national issues. Tickets are $25. You may pay online on the “Support Us” page on our website or send a check to FHNN, 4601 North Park Avenue, #1719, Chevy Chase, MD 20815. When you register online or mail a check, please specify the names and email addresses of the people attending so that we can send the Zoom link. Our website is at
If you need help registering for this event, please email us at information.fhnn@gmail.com or call 240.620.3285. Tickets are treated as a donation and are tax deductible.
Job Description
Part-Time Executive Director, Friendship Heights Neighbors Network
Friendship Heights Neighbors Network (FHNN) is a small nonprofit, part of the Villages movement nationwide, that helps seniors age in place through a variety of programs and volunteer-provided non-clinical services. The organization and its members are located in Friendship Heights, Chevy Chase, Maryland. See www.fhneighbors.org.
We seek a part-time Executive Director who will be responsible for operations and management with the assistance of one part-time staff person. Included are member and volunteer recruitment, volunteer training, overseeing volunteers servicing member requests, developing programs, engaging in marketing and communications, fundraising, financial management and tax compliance, maintenance of website and databases, working with administrative volunteers and reporting to Board of Directors. Ideally, the Executive Director would also have the background to evaluate member needs and make referrals for needed services.
Number of hours per week: 20-30.
Compensation: $30 hour. Contractual position. Liability insurance for performance of duties provided but no other benefits. During the pandemic, the Executive Director would work from home most of the time.
Experience required: AA or BA required; advanced degree preferred. Strong administrative and organizational skills required including at a minimum managerial/project management experience. Strong written and spoken communications skills required. Computer skills required including use of Windows Suite including Excel, software for marketing and communications such as Constant Contact, and familiarity with basic financial management software such as QuickBooks . Experience with seniors and volunteers, Social Work, nursing case management or equivalent skills in client assessment and referral strongly desired. Marketing and fundraising experience helpful but not required.
Send your resume and letter of interest to FHNN c/o 4601 North Park #1719, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 or via email to information.fhnn@gmail.com
02/11/2021
Dear Members, Volunteers and Friends,
We have lots of events and interesting updates to share with you. Here’s a summary.
DON’T MISS THE FHNN FUNDRAISER ON ZOOM - SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 (3 PM)
Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh is the featured speaker at FHNN’s Fundraiser. He is the highest-ranking Democratic official in Maryland and strongly opposes Governor Hogan’s plan of mailing applications (not ballots) to registered voters. He will talk about that and other election issues, as well as an extension of the moratorium on evictions, consumer protection, and other key state and national issues. It will be a great chance to ask him your questions. Later you can hear what’s happening at FHNN. Suggested donations are $25 per person. All donations are tax-deductible. Donations may be made online on the “Support Us” page on the www.fhneighbors.org website or by sending a check to FHNN, 4601 North Park Avenue, #1719, Chevy Chase, MD 20815. When registering online or by check, please specify the names and email addresses of the attendees for receiving the Zoom link. For more information, please email us at information.fhnn@gmail.com or call 240.620.3285.
SPECIAL VILLAGE ZOOM EVENTS
The next two events are on topics several of you suggested in your surveys.
Two-Part, Village Anti-Racism Workshop, Tuesday, September 8 and Monday, September 14, 1:00-2:30 p.m. Learn how to develop your own response from Montgomery County experts. The event is sponsored by our County Villages Coordinator, Pazit Aviv, in partnership with IMPACT of Silver Spring. You will be introduced to a framework called Block-Build-Be. You will explore different pathways to effectively work towards anti-racist efforts in your community. This workshop is intended for those who want to slow down and take a more holistic approach in addressing racism with an emphasis on the inner awareness needed for outwards action. There is limited capacity; the event is for people who are currently active in their village. Please RSVP by September 1, 2020.
Mini Conference on Villages in the Time of COVID, Tuesday, September 15, 1:00-4:30 pm. The keynote speaker will be nationally known geriatrician Dr. K. Eric DeJonge, MD, Chief of Geriatrics at Capital Caring Health. From 1:00-2:00 pm, Dr. DeJonge will make practical recommendations to seniors and Villages about managing risks at this time and answer questions. The Discussion Groups (which will occur after Dr. DeJonge’s presentation) are safety practices, new perspectives on programming, volunteer recruitment strategies, leadership sustainability and recruitment, financial concerns, and communicating and connecting with people who are not online. The Mini Conference is free and open to anyone.
MORE FHNN EVENTS
Susan Gluck Mezey Presentation, Tuesday, September 22, 2:00 pm. Susan Gluck Mezey’s talk is focused on the Supreme Court and Women's Reproductive Rights. Dr. Mezey is an Emeritus Professor of Political Science at Loyola University in Chicago. She has a Ph.D. from Syracuse University and a J.D. from DePaul University. She has published about the rights of minority groups and the federal courts. Her recent books are Transgender Rights: From Obama to Trump (2020); Beyond Marriage: Continuing Battles for LGBT Rights (2017); Elusive Equality: Women’s Rights, Public Policy, and the Law, 2d Ed. (2011); Gay Families and the Courts: The Quest for Equal Rights (2009); Queers in Court: Gay Rights Law and Public Policy (2007); and Disabling Interpretations: Judicial Implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (2005). Most recently she is working on the third edition of In Pursuit of Equality: Women, Public Policy and the Federal Courts. RSVP to information.fhnn@gmail.com.
Highlights Tour of the American Art Museum, Wednesday, September 30, 2:00 pm. Join us for a virtual art experience with the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Witness an array of artworks from prominent artists, in a multitude of mediums and unique art styles. Highlighting pieces reminiscent of America's history, the docent will lead an engaging discussion, welcoming comments and questions about the artwork and the artists. Since space is limited, registration preference initially will be given to FHNN members and volunteers. To register please email information.fhnn@gmail.com. If you are not an FHNN member or volunteer, we will place your name on a wait list and confirm your registration closer to the event.
Walkers Group, Mondays, 9:30-10:30 am in August. Starting September 7, the walkers meet at 10:00 am. RSVP to Ethel Pacheco with your phone number, ethelpacheco@me.com. Meet the walkers at the Community Park, corner of Willard Avenue and Friendship Boulevard. We need to wear masks and maintain appropriate distance from each other.
Meditation, every Wednesday, 10:30-12:00. Zoom drop-in meditation group led by our rotating guides, as we'll continue to reinforce mindfulness meditation practice. RSVP to volunteer.fhnn@gmail.com.
Men’s Meetup, most Thursdays at 2:00 pm. The fourth Thursday of each month the Meetup starts at 1:30. Other weeks it starts at 2:00. All men in Friendship Heights are welcome to participate via Zoom. If you are not on the Meetup list, email information.fhnn@gmail.com to be added. You will then receive the link each week.
Virtual Crafts and Chat, Thursday, August 27, 3:00-5:00 pm. Calling all knitters, crocheters, quilters, embroiderers, sketchers, and others. Join us for Virtual Crafts and Chat. This event is held monthly including on Thursday, September 24. Newcomers and beginners are welcome! RSVP to information.fhnn@gmail.com.
MARYLAND AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY UPDATES
Text 911!
Maryland residents and visitors now can text 911 in the event of an emergency. This enhancement will benefit everyone-especially the hearing/speech impaired. Please note calling remains the best option if you are able to speak.
Way to Donate Durable Medical Equipment
The State Department of Aging has a new program to assist communities with additional support services. The Maryland Statewide Durable Medical Equipment (DME)-Reuse program will pick up and provide drop off sites (including some recycling centers) for gently used DME including wheelchairs, walkers, pediatric equipment, hospital beds, scooters, shower aids, and more. All donated Durable Medical Equipment will be used to support older adults, children, and the disabled who are in need. Donors will be assisting recycling efforts and keeping this equipment out of our landfills. All donations are tax deductible. Call 240-230-8000 or email DME.MDOA@maryland.gov for more information.
Significant Traffic Disruption in Downtown Bethesda
Construction activities around 7272 Wisconsin Avenue are expected to cause significant traffic disruption from August 24-28. Southbound traffic will be reduced to a single travel lane between Elm Street and Bethesda Avenue from 9 am to 5 pm daily. The west sidewalk and right lane of southbound Wisconsin Avenue between Elm Street and Bethesda Avenue will remain closed at all times while construction access and staging continue. More.
Free Food Distribution at B-CC Rescue Squad
For the next six months, there will be free food distributed to those in need every Friday, 1-3 pm, in the parking lot of the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad, 5020 Battery Lane, Bethesda. This distribution program is a partnership of Nourish Now, St. John's Norwood Episcopal Church, the B-CC Rescue Squad, Hyatt Regency Bethesda, Greater Bethesda Chamber of Commerce and Councilmember Andrew Friedson.
Nourish Now is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit food bank working to end hunger in Montgomery County. It specializes in food recovery, providing donations from grocers, caterers, restaurants, hotels, bakeries, and other food donors for the benefit of children, families, and the elderly, as well as shelters, food pantries and other organizations. See the video for details.
ADDITIONAL EVENTS AND LINKS INCLUDING PANDA CAM
Everything You Wanted to Know about the FTC But Were Afraid to Ask, Wednesday August 26, 1:00-2:30 pm. The Speaker Barry Cutler, former Director of the FTC’s Consumer Protection Bureau. The FTC, along with the SEC and CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission), is one of several alphabet soup agencies that are called” Independent Agencies.” What makes these agencies “independent” while others like the EPA, CDC, FDA, & FEMA are part of the Administration? Part of this presentation will include audience participation. Please click www.littlefallsvillage.org/FTC to register and for more information on the presentation.
Villages Town Hall on COVID-19, Tuesday, September 1 from 7:00-8:30 pm. Join Councilmember Evan Glass (At-Large) and County Health Officer Dr. Travis Gayles for a virtual Town Hall to hear about Montgomery County’s ongoing COVID-19 efforts. Dr. Gayles will provide more information about the County’s plans and criteria for the safe reopening of libraries, recreation centers, and schools. Hear from Councilmember Glass about the latest news from the County Council and other issues of importance in the community.
This will be an interactive event and you will have the opportunity to share your thoughts and concerns.
Reimagining Policing in Montgomery County Town Hall
On Thursday, September 10 at 7:00 PM, Councilmember Will Jawando will host a town hall about policing in Montgomery County. To register for this event please visit: https://bit.ly/signup910. Once registered, a link will be forwarded to your email the day prior to the event. Here is more information.
Councilmember Will Jawando invites you to his “Reimagining Policing in Montgomery County” virtual Town Hall. Last year, at Councilmember Jawando’s request, the Montgomery County Office of Legislative Oversight researched and wrote a report on Policing Data, published on July 21, 2020. The Town Hall will examine the report and other best practices related to policing data and how that relates to public policy. As part of the Town Hall, discussion will be facilitated through a panel that includes:
Dr. Elaine Bonner-Tompkins and Natalia Carrizosa, analysts with the Office of Legislative Oversight;
Dr. Rashawn Ray, Professor of Sociology at the University of Maryland, College Park, and the David M. Rubenstein Fellow in Governance Studies at the Brookings Institution;
Danielle Blocker, President, Young People for Progress; and
Will Jawando, At-Large Councilmember, Montgomery County Council.
Adapting Your Coping Skills, Wednesday, September 16, 2:00–3:00 pm. The senior stage of life with its unique challenges often requires new or not often used coping skills. And now, as a high-risk population, seniors coping with the risks of Covid-19 is a huge stressor. Frederika Granger, LCSW-C (Program Manager of the Positive Aging Program at Aspire Counseling) will help us get perspective on how experience and wisdom serve us and help us develop a revised tool kit of coping skills. RSVP to director@bmavillage.org by the day before the program for a Zoom link. Please include “Coping Skills” in the subject line. Friends, family, and neighbors are welcome.
Library Events
The Montgomery County Public Libraries have daily events for all ages. https://mcpl.libnet.info/events
Panda Cam
The National Zoo is excited about the newest panda. You might want to take a look. https://nationalzoo.si.edu/webcams/panda-cam
Cyber-Seniors Reminder
Technologies like Zoom, Skype, Google Duo, music apps, how to explore the web and more are covered by Cyber-Seniors. Different than other alternatives, this is FREE, has frequent offerings, records offerings so they can be replayed, and provides one-one-one coaching.
You can sign up directly by going to www.cyberseniors.org. FHNN tech volunteers can help YOU get connected to Zoom and other technologies. Our help includes answering your questions and explaining the features of Cyber-Seniors which provides coaching. If you want a follow up call, email information.fhnn@gmail.com and let us know if you are a beginner or intermediate. Preference for this help will be given to FHNN members and volunteers, but we will do our best to ensure everyone gets connected.
Nonprofit FHNN helps seniors age in place. See www.fhneighbors.org. Visitors are welcome. Donations from non-Village members are gratefully accepted. To donate, visit our website and go to the “Support Us” tab. For more information, email or call us.
Phone: 240.620.3285 information.fhnn@gmail.com
08/25/2020
DON’T MISS THE FHNN FUNDRAISER ON ZOOM - SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 (3 PM)
Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh is the featured speaker at FHNN’s Fundraiser. He is the highest-ranking Democratic official in Maryland and strongly opposes Governor Hogan’s plan of mailing applications (not ballots) to registered voters. He will talk about that and other election issues, as well as an extension of the moratorium on evictions, consumer protection, and other key state and national issues. It will be a great chance to ask him your questions. Later you can hear what’s happening at FHNN. Suggested donations are $25 per person. All donations are tax-deductible. Donations may be made online on the “Support Us” page on the www.fhneighbors.org website or by sending a check to FHNN, 4601 North Park Avenue, #1719, Chevy Chase, MD 20815. When registering online or by check, please specify the names and email addresses of the attendees for receiving the Zoom link. For more information, please email us at information.fhnn@gmail.com or call 240.620.3285.
08/20/2020
By Connie Row, President, FHNN and
Louise Smoak, Operations Manager
Dear Members, Volunteers, and Friends: Our August Newsletter is full of information including our exciting Fundraiser; reminders; new, virtual events; and Maryland and Montgomery County updates.
FHNN SEPTEMBER 13 FUNDRAISER
SAVE THE DATE: Please mark your calendar now for our FHNN Virtual Fundraiser on Sunday, September 13 at 3:00 pm!
Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh is the featured speaker at FHNN’s Fundraiser. On the agenda is the Attorney General’s opposition to Governor Hogan’s current plan of mailing applications (not ballots) to registered voters. Other issues include an extension of the moratorium on evictions, consumer protection, fraud and abuse, and other key state and national issues. Tickets are $25. You may pay online on the “Support Us” page on our website or send a check to FHNN, 4601 North Park Avenue, #1719, Chevy Chase, MD 20815. When you register online or mail a check, please specify the names and email addresses of the people attending so that we can send the Zoom link. Our website is at
If you need help registering for this event, please email us at information.fhnn@gmail.com or call 240.620.3285. Tickets are treated as a donation and are tax deductible.
LET US HEAR FROM YOU! COMPLETE THE FHNN SURVEY BY AUGUST 14!
COVID-19 has made all of us adapt and has caused organizations like FHNN to discontinue some services such as transportation, and change the way we offer others, like presenting programs on Zoom. COVID-19 is still with us, and we at FHNN need to make a plan for the coming year. To that end, we need to know from you what’s important, and what needs to be changed. Many Montgomery County Villages are in this same planning process, looking for feedback from their members and volunteers. The survey is brief, and it can be returned in the enclosed envelope which can be mailed or walked over to the Elizabeth and put in the folder for #1719. If you can’t find your survey, please email us. If you need help returning your survey to the Elizabeth, email us and we will arrange for someone to assist you.
HELP WITH GETTING YOUR ABSENTEE BALLOT APPLICATION
Governor Hogan has announced that the General Election will take place as scheduled on November 3, 2020, with early voting centers and all polling locations open. In addition, he directed the State Board of Elections to send an absentee ballot request application to every registered voter.
If you have questions about this process or want a copy of the ballot request application, please email us and we will try to assist you. General information was sent out last Thursday. If you need it again, email us at information.fhnn@gmail.com.
AUGUST FHNN EVENTS
Speaker Series: Crossing Borders, A Foreign Correspondent’s Experience in Journalism and Fiction, Tuesday, August 11, 2:00 pm. Our speaker is Sebastian Rotella, an award-winning journalist and novelist. For the past ten years, he has covered international security issues as a senior reporter for ProPublica, a newsroom dedicated to investigative journalism in the public interest. His projects have appeared in The New York Times, Washington Post, Frontline PBS, and other media outlets. He has also been a Pulitzer finalist for international reporting. He is the author of four books, including the novels Triple Crossing, which The New York Times’ Sunday Book Review named top debut crime novel and action thriller of 2011; The Convert’s Song (2014); and Rip Crew, which was named one of the best crime novels of 2018 by Kirkus reviews. RSVP to information.fhnn@gmail.com and include “Rotella” in the subject line.
Virtual Tour of Hillwood, Tuesday, August 18, 2:00 pm. This docent tour is for FHNN members and volunteers only. Marjorie Post purchased Hillwood with the intent to leave it as a museum that would inspire and educate the public, and we are so excited to bring the mansion to you. Gather with friends and join a trained volunteer docent to learn about Post, her rich collections, and how they are experienced today very much as they were in Post’s time. View photos, collection highlights, archival images, and videos, while asking questions in real time. Space is limited. Members and volunteers RSVP to information.fhnn@gmail.com and include “Hillwood” in the subject line.
Monet & More, Monday, August 24, 2:00 pm. France was the center of the art world in the 18th and 19th centuries. The National Gallery has some of its finest works. Estelle Quain, a National Gallery docent and FHNN member, will lead us on a Zoom tour of some of the best from that collection. It will be Estelle’s encore after her American Stories presentation – which received rave reviews. RSVP to information.fhnn@gmail.com and include “Monet” in the subject line.
Walkers Group, NEW TIME THROUGH THE END OF AUGUST, Monday, 9:30-10:30 am. RSVP to Ethel Pacheco with your phone number, ethelpacheco@me.com. Meet the walkers at the Community Park, corner of Willard Avenue and Friendship Boulevard. We need to wear masks and maintain appropriate distance from each other.
Meditation, every Wednesday, 10:30-12:00. Zoom drop-in meditation group led by our rotating guides, as we'll continue to reinforce mindfulness meditation practice. RSVP to volunteer.fhnn@gmail.com.
Men’s Meetup, most Thursdays at 2:00 pm. The fourth Thursday of each month the Meetup starts at 1:30. Other weeks it starts at 2:00. All men in Friendship Heights are welcome to participate via Zoom. If you are not on the Meetup list, email information.fhnn@gmail.com to be added. You will then receive the link each week.
Virtual Crafts and Chat, Thursday, August 27, 3:00-5:00 pm. Calling all knitters, crocheters, quilters, embroiderers, sketchers, and others. Join us for Virtual Crafts and Chat. This event is held monthly. Newcomers and beginners are welcome! RSVP to information.fhnn@gmail.com.
FREE, INDIVIDUAL TECH HELP IN AUGUST THROUGH SR. PLANET COVID CORPS
During the month of August, Senior Planet Covid Corps members will provide one-on-one technology help over the phone and through video conference appointments. Covid Corps members are high school juniors to college sophomores working for Montgomery County to make a difference this summer.
Senior Planet Covid Corps members can assist residents with questions or problems with smart phones, computers, tablets, printers, email, using the Internet or applications, and more. They can also assist in finding MC Public Library, Recreation, and Senior Planet classes and other virtual programming. Covid Corps members can also help low-income individuals sign up for $9.95 per month home Internet access.
30-minute appointments are available Monday through Friday at 10 am, 10:45 am, 11:15 am, 1 pm, 1:45 pm, and 2:30 pm in English, Spanish, Chinese (Mandarin), Amharic, Farsi, Hindi, Nepali, Russian, Tigrinya, Krio, and ASL (by Internet video).
For more information, email information.fhnn@gmail.com and FHNN will assist you in accessing this free service. As a reminder, FHNN full members are always eligible to receive virtual tech support through FHNN.
MARYLAND AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY UPDATES
Governor Hogan Curtails Power of Local Health Officers to Order Blanket School Closures
By executive order, on August 3 Governor Larry Hogan curtailed the authority of local health officials to order blanket closures of schools. This undoes County Public Health Officer Travis Gayles' July 31 decision to require all private schools to operate entirely online through October 1. Under Hogan's order, local health officials may shut down schools only on a case-by-case basis for health reasons. More.
County Executive Marc Elrich said in response, "Our decision to restrict nonpublic schools from in-person instruction was made with one concern in mind - protecting the public health of our residents. It was not an easy decision. As we have done throughout this pandemic, we used data and science to guide us - not politics."
Maryland's COVID-19 Positivity Rate Declines, Testing Increases
The State of Maryland on August 3 reported a drop in the seven-day average COVID-19 positivity rate to 4.36%, the second-lowest level during the pandemic. The state's positivity rate has been under 5% since June 25.and a slight drop in hospitalizations. In addition, 15.9%, or nearly 1.3 million, COVID-19 tests have been completed. More.
As of the time this was written, Montgomery County has had 84 new cases since August 2, a 0.5% increase. The number of cases in the county has risen by less than 1% for 27 consecutive days, and for all but one day since June 13. More.
County Council Approves $31M+ To Address Pandemic Needs
The County Council approved more than $31 million in local and federal funds for responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Of that, $20 million will be used to help renters who haven't been able to pay all or part of their rent because of financial impacts of COVID-19. An average of $4,000 will be provided to each household with income up to 60% of the area median income.
Some $5.6 million will be used for a new program, Por Nuestra Salud y Bienestar (For Our Health and Wellbeing), to serve the county's Latino community. Hispanic residents have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic. In July, 73% of the positive coronavirus tests in the county were from Latino residents.
Other funds approved are for personal protective equipment and related materials and services for the Department of Police, Department of Corrections, the Sheriff's Office and the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service; the county's EveryMind hotline (mental health support, crisis intervention, suicide assessments); and mental health services for Montgomery County Public School students. More.
Governor Issues Travel Advisory, Expands Face Covering Requirement
Governor Larry Hogan on July 29 directed the Maryland Department of Health to issue a travel advisory regarding states with a test positivity rate of 10% or greater. The advisory says that anyone traveling to Maryland from those states should get tested and self-quarantine until they receive results.
He also expanded the state's mandate for face coverings, requiring all Maryland residents over the age of 5 to wear face masks while indoors in public spaces and outdoors when social distancing is not possible. (The new state regulation is in line with County health order on masks, which requires masks for children two and older.)
Under the state order, face masks are required at all businesses, commercial office buildings and locations that have public areas, including places of worship, casinos, gyms and indoor recreation and personal service establishments. This goes beyond his previous order requiring masks inside grocery stories, pharmacies, retail stores, restaurants and when riding public transportation.
Storm Preparations
In preparation for storms, the county urges you to sign up for Alert Montgomery to get timely weather updates on cell phones, smart phones and/or email accounts.
Other storm preparedness tips include keeping flashlights, battery-powered radios, extra batteries, a basic first aid kit, medicines and emergency non-perishable food and water on hand to last each member of your family approximately 72 hours. You also should keep your portable devices charged.
OTHER VILLAGES’ ZOOM EVENTS
Five Key Aspects of Fitness Central to Optimal Aging, Thursday August 13, 1:00-2:30 pm. Are you 50 years or older? Are you unsure of where you stand physically versus normative date for age related peers? Have you been putting off exercise or doing the same exercise routine for years? Are you interested in identifying potential early warning signs and addressing issues before they become major health limitations and problems? Are you interested in where to start or how to establish a more targeted exercise program for specific deficits? Please join Andrew Singer, a Physical Therapist at Sumner Fitness, to learn more about the Adult Fitness Independence Test (AFIT) and how it can help you to evaluate the five key aspects of fitness central to optimal aging: posture, flexibility, balance, endurance and strength. Andrew Singer, PT, DPT, MHS graduated from Bowdoin College with a Bachelor of Art in Biology, Johns Hopkins School of Hygiene and Public Health with a Master of Health Science in Epidemiology, and University of Maryland School of Medicine Department of Physical Therapy with a Doctorate of Physical Therapy.. Registration Link: www.littlefallsvillage.org/Fitness
Everything You Wanted to Know about the FTC But Were Afraid to Ask, Wednesday August 26, 1:00-2:30 pm. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) along with the SEC and CPSC, is one of several alphabet soup agencies that are called” Independent Agencies.” Why are some of these agencies” independent” while others like the EPA, CDC, FDA, & FEMA are not “independent”? Is it truly independent, as its classification implies, or does it work with other independent agencies and/or non-independent agencies? Who provides oversight over the FTC? How does the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection help the consumer? What are some of their most challenging issues? The speaker is Barry Cutler, former supervising attorney with the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection and Assistant General Counsel. Registration Link: www.littlefallsvillage.org/FTC
Adapting Your Coping Skills, Wednesday, September 16, 2:00–3:00 pm. The senior stage of life with its unique challenges often requires new or not often used coping skills. These unique challenges are retirement, chronic and/or episodic health issues, generational conflict in families, significant loss, financial changes, downsizing, and caregiving. And now, as a high-risk population, seniors coping with the risks of Covid-19 is a huge stressor. Frederika Granger, LCSW-C (Program Manager of the Positive Aging Program at Aspire Counseling) will help us get perspective on how experience and wisdom serve us and help us develop a revised tool kit of coping skills. Participants will learn about Erik Erikson's Psychosocial Stages of Development and how we can adapt or modify our life skills in order to enjoy this stage and tolerate the uncertainty that comes with the pandemic. Ms. Granger has over 20 years of experience as a social worker in program development and administration, public policy, and individual and group counseling. She practices with a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy perspective and specializes in the senior citizen age group, addressing health anxiety, depression, adjustment to retirement, self-advocacy, family conflict, grief and loss, brain fitness, and fear of aging. RSVP to director@bmavillage.org by the day before the program for a Zoom link. Please include “Coping Skills” in the subject line. Friends, family, and neighbors are welcome.
08/05/2020
Dear Members, Volunteers and Friends, This eblast focuses on learning and fun! We have something for everyone so please keep reading. If you need help with Zoom, don’t be shy, email or call us and we will try to help.
CYBER-SENIORS AND FHNN TECH HELP (FREE HELP WITH TECHNOLOGY)
FHNN has recently learned about a nonprofit that connects seniors with technology, with the aim of reducing tech worries and replace them with fun experiences! Cyber-Seniors (C-S), a Toronto-based non-profit, began in 2009 as a school project for two teens in Toronto who wanted to bridge the digital divide between generations. The project grew from there, developing a robust program that teaches seniors ways to improve and become more confident about their digital technology skills. Technologies like Zoom, Skype, Google Duo, music apps, how to explore the web and more are covered. Different and better than other alternatives, this is FREE, has frequent offerings, records sessions so they can be replayed, and offers one-one-one coaching.
Several of us at FHNN have done a “test drive” of C-S and think this is very useful and perfectly tuned to our generation. You can sign up directly by going to www.cyberseniors.org.
But If you’d like to learn more about the features and how to use C-S, FHNN is setting up for members and volunteers two Zoom sessions, led by FHNN volunteers. One session will be geared to any member/volunteer who prefers that the presentation is given at a slower pace with plenty of detail. For those who feel fairly comfortable with tech, we’ll offer a separate Zoom session at a somewhat faster pace. And anyone ready to dive right now can go to www.cyberseniors.org. Note: If you’re not familiar with using Zoom, just let us know when you RSVP, and we’ll have someone contact you by phone to get you started. RSVP is required to attend either FHNN C-S session information.fhnn@gmail.org. Please note if you are registering for Session One (beginners) or Session Two (intermediate) and if you need help with connecting to Zoom. Each session is limited to 6 attendees and dates for them will be announced soon. Preference for the sessions will be given to FHNN members and volunteers, but everyone interested should register, and we will try to help you get connected and be able to participate in the many virtual events currently being offered.
FHNN EVENTS
LITTLE FALLS VILLAGE EVENTS
You may want to register for these Little Falls Village Zoom events in May. Register by emailing info@littlefallsvillage.org and include the name of the presentation in the subject. We suggest you email LFV promptly since these events may fill up.
Planet Word, Thursday, May 14, 1:00-2:30 pm. Rebecca Roberts, journalist and former Programming Coordinator with the Smithsonian Institution, is currently the Curator of Programming for the upcoming Planet Word Museum, the new languages arts museum slated to open in D.C.'s Franklin Square in fall of 2020. Ms. Roberts will provide details on Planet Word, where visitors will be introduced to the power, fun, and beauty of words. Through the many immersive experiences Planet Word will offer, visitors will discover the richness of the world's languages and words which shape our lives, our decisions, and our relationships. This presentation is also scheduled for Wednesday, October 28 at the Little Falls Library. Email info@littlefallsvillage.org to receive Zoom information.
What is the Outlook for U.S.-China Relations? Wednesday, May 27, 1:00-2:30 pm. The speaker is Stapleton Roy, former Ambassador to China. In the space of a few short decades, China has emerged as a principal rival of the United States as a global leader. The United States faces a fundamental policy choice in dealing with China. Should the goal of our policy be to preserve our traditional air and sea dominance in the Western Pacific? Or should the goal be the encouragement of responsible behavior by a more powerful and influential China? We are not addressing this choice in a serious manner. Complicating this issue is the question of what is going on in China, where President Xi Jinping is heading a campaign against western influences and increasingly resorting to fear and repression to maintain stability. The suppression of Uighurs in Xinjiang, the demonstrations in Hong Kong, and the reelection of President Tsai Ing-wen in Taiwan suggests that all is not well in China's domestic affairs. The trade war between China and the United States is an additional complicating factor. Ambassador Roy will look at these issues from the perspective of his long experience in dealing with China. Email info@littlefallsvillage.org to receive Zoom information.
BETHESDA METRO VILLAGE VIRTUAL EVENTS
The Art Theft of the (last) Century!, on Saturday, May 16, 3 pm. On August 21, 1911, Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa was stolen from the Louvre in Paris. Someone entered the Salon Carré, lifted it off the wall and simply walked out with it. The painting was stolen on a Monday morning, and baffling as it may be now, it wasn't until Tuesday at noon before anyone noticed that the masterpiece was missing. Join us for a richly illustrated presentation by Barbara Evans about the theft of the most famous painting in the world.
Team of Five: the Presidents Club in the Age of Trump, Tuesday, June 9, 10 am. BMAV hosts Kate Andersen Brower, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Residence and First Women, who will be talking about her newest book, Team of Five: the Presidents Club in the Age of Trump - a poignant, news-making look at the lives of the five former presidents in the wake of their White House years, including the surprising friendships they have formed through shared perspective and empathy.
RSVP to director@bmavillage.org for Zoom login for the Art Theft and Team of Five events.
OLLI CLASSES IN JUNE AND JULY --- FROM YOUR HOME!
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at American University (OLLI at AU) is like a small liberal arts college with academic classes in every subject area. There are two upcoming sessions:
June Minis with 90-minute study groups held once-a-week for 4 weeks, June 1-26. Minis will be held via Zoom. The membership fee for Minis is $100 to take up to 3 classes. View OLLI Minis courses. For June sessions, register BEFORE Lottery Day, Monday, May 18.
July Shorts with 3-, 4-, and 5-day, 90-minute immersion study groups, July 13-17. The membership fee for July Shorts is $75 to take up to 3 study groups. Shorts will be held via Zoom unless there is a change in circumstances closer to that time. View July Shorts courses. For July shorts, register BEFORE Lottery Day, Friday, June 26.
For more information, visit https://olli-dc.org, email olli@american.edu, or call 202-895-4860.
WE WANT TO ADD MORE VIRTUAL AFFINITY GROUPS AND SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
FHNN is always looking for new ideas. Please let us know if you are interested in or could help lead a new program. Our ideas include:
We know you have ideas, so please send them to us including the types of presentations which interest you and regular meetings you would enjoy. Possible topics include health, financial, history, and current events.
If there is enough interest in a new affinity group, we will get it organized. We will publicize the activity, send out the Zoom information, and make sure the group leader can comfortably run the meeting.
5 MINUTES THAT WILL MAKE YOU LOVE OPERA
Even those who do not usually enjoy opera will love the featured selections. Click the link for some beautiful music (which may also make your smarter!).
The New York Times asked Patti Smith, John Turturro, Renée Fleming and others to pick the music that moves them. Listen to their choices.
05/13/2020
Dear Members, Volunteers and Friends, This eblast focuses on learning and fun! We have something for everyone so please keep reading. If you need help with Zoom, don’t be shy, email or call us and we will try to help.
CYBER-SENIORS AND FHNN TECH HELP (FREE HELP WITH TECHNOLOGY)
FHNN has recently learned about a nonprofit that connects seniors with technology, with the aim of reducing tech worries and replace them with fun experiences! Cyber-Seniors (C-S), a Toronto-based non-profit, began in 2009 as a school project for two teens in Toronto who wanted to bridge the digital divide between generations. The project grew from there, developing a robust program that teaches seniors ways to improve and become more confident about their digital technology skills. Technologies like Zoom, Skype, Google Duo, music apps, how to explore the web and more are covered. Different and better than other alternatives, this is FREE, has frequent offerings, records sessions so they can be replayed, and offers one-one-one coaching.
Several of us at FHNN have done a “test drive” of C-S and think this is very useful and perfectly tuned to our generation. You can sign up directly by going to www.cyberseniors.org.
But If you’d like to learn more about the features and how to use C-S, FHNN is setting up for members and volunteers two Zoom sessions, led by FHNN volunteers. One session will be geared to any member/volunteer who prefers that the presentation is given at a slower pace with plenty of detail. For those who feel fairly comfortable with tech, we’ll offer a separate Zoom session at a somewhat faster pace. And anyone ready to dive right now can go to www.cyberseniors.org. Note: If you’re not familiar with using Zoom, just let us know when you RSVP, and we’ll have someone contact you by phone to get you started. RSVP is required to attend either FHNN C-S session information.fhnn@gmail.org. Please note if you are registering for Session One (beginners) or Session Two (intermediate) and if you need help with connecting to Zoom. Each session is limited to 6 attendees and dates for them will be announced soon. Preference for the sessions will be given to FHNN members and volunteers, but everyone interested should register, and we will try to help you get connected and be able to participate in the many virtual events currently being offered.
FHNN EVENTS
LITTLE FALLS VILLAGE EVENTS
You may want to register for these Little Falls Village Zoom events in May. Register by emailing info@littlefallsvillage.org and include the name of the presentation in the subject. We suggest you email LFV promptly since these events may fill up.
Planet Word, Thursday, May 14, 1:00-2:30 pm. Rebecca Roberts, journalist and former Programming Coordinator with the Smithsonian Institution, is currently the Curator of Programming for the upcoming Planet Word Museum, the new languages arts museum slated to open in D.C.'s Franklin Square in fall of 2020. Ms. Roberts will provide details on Planet Word, where visitors will be introduced to the power, fun, and beauty of words. Through the many immersive experiences Planet Word will offer, visitors will discover the richness of the world's languages and words which shape our lives, our decisions, and our relationships. This presentation is also scheduled for Wednesday, October 28 at the Little Falls Library. Email info@littlefallsvillage.org to receive Zoom information.
What is the Outlook for U.S.-China Relations? Wednesday, May 27, 1:00-2:30 pm. The speaker is Stapleton Roy, former Ambassador to China. In the space of a few short decades, China has emerged as a principal rival of the United States as a global leader. The United States faces a fundamental policy choice in dealing with China. Should the goal of our policy be to preserve our traditional air and sea dominance in the Western Pacific? Or should the goal be the encouragement of responsible behavior by a more powerful and influential China? We are not addressing this choice in a serious manner. Complicating this issue is the question of what is going on in China, where President Xi Jinping is heading a campaign against western influences and increasingly resorting to fear and repression to maintain stability. The suppression of Uighurs in Xinjiang, the demonstrations in Hong Kong, and the reelection of President Tsai Ing-wen in Taiwan suggests that all is not well in China's domestic affairs. The trade war between China and the United States is an additional complicating factor. Ambassador Roy will look at these issues from the perspective of his long experience in dealing with China. Email info@littlefallsvillage.org to receive Zoom information.
BETHESDA METRO VILLAGE VIRTUAL EVENTS
The Art Theft of the (last) Century!, on Saturday, May 16, 3 pm. On August 21, 1911, Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa was stolen from the Louvre in Paris. Someone entered the Salon Carré, lifted it off the wall and simply walked out with it. The painting was stolen on a Monday morning, and baffling as it may be now, it wasn't until Tuesday at noon before anyone noticed that the masterpiece was missing. Join us for a richly illustrated presentation by Barbara Evans about the theft of the most famous painting in the world.
Team of Five: the Presidents Club in the Age of Trump, Tuesday, June 9, 10 am. BMAV hosts Kate Andersen Brower, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Residence and First Women, who will be talking about her newest book, Team of Five: the Presidents Club in the Age of Trump - a poignant, news-making look at the lives of the five former presidents in the wake of their White House years, including the surprising friendships they have formed through shared perspective and empathy.
RSVP to director@bmavillage.org for Zoom login for the Art Theft and Team of Five events.
OLLI CLASSES IN JUNE AND JULY --- FROM YOUR HOME!
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at American University (OLLI at AU) is like a small liberal arts college with academic classes in every subject area. There are two upcoming sessions:
June Minis with 90-minute study groups held once-a-week for 4 weeks, June 1-26. Minis will be held via Zoom. The membership fee for Minis is $100 to take up to 3 classes. View OLLI Minis courses. For June sessions, register BEFORE Lottery Day, Monday, May 18.
July Shorts with 3-, 4-, and 5-day, 90-minute immersion study groups, July 13-17. The membership fee for July Shorts is $75 to take up to 3 study groups. Shorts will be held via Zoom unless there is a change in circumstances closer to that time. View July Shorts courses. For July shorts, register BEFORE Lottery Day, Friday, June 26.
For more information, visit https://olli-dc.org, email olli@american.edu, or call 202-895-4860.
WE WANT TO ADD MORE VIRTUAL AFFINITY GROUPS AND SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
FHNN is always looking for new ideas. Please let us know if you are interested in or could help lead a new program. Our ideas include:
We know you have ideas, so please send them to us including the types of presentations which interest you and regular meetings you would enjoy. Possible topics include health, financial, history, and current events.
If there is enough interest in a new affinity group, we will get it organized. We will publicize the activity, send out the Zoom information, and make sure the group leader can comfortably run the meeting.
5 MINUTES THAT WILL MAKE YOU LOVE OPERA
Even those who do not usually enjoy opera will love the featured selections. Click the link for some beautiful music (which may also make your smarter!).
The New York Times asked Patti Smith, John Turturro, Renée Fleming and others to pick the music that moves them. Listen to their choices.
05/13/2020
MORE FUN THINGS TO DO AND TRY!
FHNN’s events include Meditation, Men’s Meetup, our next Speaker Series, and Crafts and Chat. You only need to bring your enthusiasm. New folks are always welcome. Try something new in May! We will help you with Zoom if you call or email us.
Here are more ideas.
Watch Yale’s Free Happiness Course or Read a Summary!
Yale's massively popular 'happiness' course is available free online!
We have been reading articles about this course for some time. To sign up, open the article and click “Coursera” in the first paragraph.
https://www.cnn.com/2020/03/23/health/yale-happiness-course-wellness/index.html
If you do not have time for the course videos, you may want to read this article about the key takeaways from the class!
https://bestlifeonline.com/yale-happiness-course/
The best (virtual) things to do while quarantined at home in the D.C. area from The Washington Post.
There are lots of ideas in this article including cooking demonstrations, concerts, virtual trivia, and the European Union open house!
https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2020/04/02/things-to-do-dc-quarantine-coronavirus/
MCPL Introduces Hoopla! No Waiting for eBooks, audiobooks, and more
MCPL (Montgomery County Public Libraries) has been working hard to bring you digital resources. Using Hoopla, you can borrow movies, music, audiobooks, ebooks, comics and TV shows to enjoy on your computer, tablet, or phone – and even your TV! With no waiting, titles can be streamed immediately, or downloaded to phones or tablets for offline enjoyment. Click Hoopla - https://mcpl.link/hoopla. You need a library card, but if you don't have one, don't worry. You can grab a digital library card at https://mcpl.link/DigitalCard. If you any questions about materials or services, check out Ask-A-Librarian service. You can submit questions via phone (240-777-0001) or online at https://mcpl.link/ask-a-librarian. And finally, check out the virtual programs the library is holding. Virtual Storytimes - https://mcpl.events/VirtualStorytime All Virtual Events - https://mcpl.events/VirtualPrograms.
Visit the US Botanical Gardens!
Take a virtual tour, learn from home, and try activities for families.
Experience Bethesda
Downtown Bethesda's arts organizations, local businesses and the Bethesda Urban Partnership offers virtual and online events and classes for you to enjoy.
Missing D.C.? Here is an article on 100 ways to enjoy it.
YouTube Tribute to Sondheim
Another great YouTube to view is Sondheim at 90, a recent virtual birthday celebration by over 40 musical performers. Each gave tribute (from their homes due to covid19) to this iconic songwriter/lyricist, whose first collaboration at 20 years old was with Leonard Bernstein as lyricist for "West Side Story.” Sondheim followed with “Gypsy,” “Sunday in the Park,” “A Little Night Music,” and “Sweeney Todd” to name only a few. Putting together this 2 1/2 hr. YouTube tribute to Sondheim was a masterful technical feat, much deserved for this beloved American musical icon. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A92wZIvEUAw
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Please join the artists after the performance for a cocktail reception on Zoom! Details will be shared during the concert to minimize the risk of hacking. |
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Join IN Series Friday, May 8, at 5:00 pm on Facebook Live for their next online musical happy hour with IN Series favorites Frank Conlon and Brian Thorne. Be delighted and comforted by favorite tunes old and new right from the home of these spectacular artists! Hosted and curated by the performers themselves, this series celebrates the power of music and the arts to transcend circumstances and unite creators and audiences in spite of distance.
Experience Art from Home
How to get your art and design fix from your couch
Finding Great Art While in Isolation (Washington Post)
Learn about the Gardner Museum theft
Grab paper and pen, pencil or crayon and create your own art with Mo Willems’ Lunch Doodle. Learners worldwide can draw, doodle, and explore new ways of writing by visiting Mo’s studio virtually once a day for the next few weeks. You can see a new video each weekday at 1 p.m. ET.
Stuck at home? Take free drawing classes from famous illustrators
Genealogy
Family Search is the largest genealogy society in the world, with billions of records searchable online. Can create your family tree, search their extensive database for historical records, or check out their Family History Activities page for resources to teach you more about your family history.
National Museum of Women in the Arts
NMWA is now a digital museum! See their website for more details.
https://nmwa.org/
Women’s History
The National Archives Foundation filmed a series of interviews with Cokie Roberts, Speaker Pelosi and many other women trailblazers last year in celebration of the Women's Suffrage Centennial and in support of the National Archives exhibit, Rightfully Hers.
05/09/2020
For Immediate Release: Saturday, April 4, 2020
The COVID-19 pandemic may be causing stress and anxiety for county residents of all ages. Schools are closed, there is a Stay-at-Home Order across Maryland and daily lives are disrupted in many ways. County health officials, doctors, nurses and other hospital staff and our state health partners are working around the clock to fight COVID-19 and slow down the number of cases. The virus can affect everyone in emotional and physical ways.
The current COVID-19 situation can exacerbate domestic violence and human trafficking and add additional layers of challenges for those with existing mental health concerns. The County’s 24-hour Crisis Center provides telephone help for anyone in crisis. The Crisis Center number is 240-777-4000.
Mental health professionals from the County’s Department of Health and Human Services have the following guidance:
Additional mental health resources are on the COVID-19 website.
For the latest COVID-19 updates, visit the County’s COVID-19 website and follow Montgomery County on Facebook @MontgomeryCountyInfo and Twitter @MontgomeryCountyMD.
04/05/2020
Metro to further reduce service hours starting Monday: Rail to close at 9 p.m. nightly, Bus service ends at 11 p.m.
As part of its ongoing efforts to limit frontline transit workers’ exposure to the public during the ongoing COVID-19 emergency, Metro’s Pandemic Task Force will further reduce rail and bus hours, starting Monday, April 6, 2020.
Metrorail will close at 9 p.m. every day:
Mon-Fri: Open 5AM Close 9PM
Sat-Sun: Open 8AM Close 9PM
Metrobus service also will end earlier each day, with the last trips departing at or before 11 p.m. Buses that enter service at or before 11 p.m. will continue to the end of the route before going out of service.
The decision to end service earlier reflects a significant drop-off in ridership since Metro began asking riders to limit use of the system to “essential trips only” to enhance safety for employees and individuals who must travel during the COVID-19 public health emergency. Earlier this week, the Mayor of Washington, D.C., Muriel Bowser, joined Maryland Governor Larry Hogan and Virginia Governor Ralph Northam in signing Executive Orders directing their residents to stay at home, except for essential travel.
Metro’s ridership drop-off has been particularly acute after 9 p.m. The shorter service hours will allow frontline transit workers—who have been serving the public without interruption— to spend more time with their families, all while reducing their exposure to the public.
As a reminder, the health and safety of our community depends on everyone doing their part by staying at home, limiting close contact and maintaining social distancing practices. Metro is encouraging anyone using the system to closely follow CDC guidance. Riders may use face masks, scarves, bandannas, or other material to cover their mouth and nose.
STAY-AT-HOME ORDERS IN EFFECT: Anyone using Metro should travel only if absolutely necessary for essential purposes as stipulated under stay-at-home Executive Orders in effect throughout the Metro service area. Essential travel includes first responders, hospital staff, critical government employees, grocery and pharmacy workers, and others who must work during the public health emergency. Unless traveling for an essential purpose, you are urged to stay at home.
If you are feeling sick, do not use Metro or any other form of public transportation. Instead, call your doctor before leaving your home to discuss appropriate transportation.
04/03/2020
ALL MEMBER ZOOM CHECK IN CALL. Thursday, April 9, 11:00 am. RSVP to information.fhnn@gmail.com and we will send you the log-in information. Remember you can call in!
How are you doing? Adapting? See and talk to your fellow members via Zoom!
We hope you will register for other Zoom events in April, too. You can call into any of these events or use your computer or other device.
How to Order Food On-Line, Friday, April 24, 10:30-11:30 am. Groceries & Dinner delivery Apps #101. Never ordered groceries online? Never ordered meals delivered from your favorite restaurant? This seminar is for you! (Peapod, Instacart, Uber Eats, Door Dash.) Our speaker is FHNN Member Kathleen McGuinness/SmithLife Homecare. RSVP by emailing information.fhnn@gmail.com
04/03/2020
As many of you may have heard, Governor Hogan issued a Stay-At-Home executive order today that goes into effect March 30 @ 8:00 pm. As described below, the Stay-At-Home Order is not a full lockdown, and people are permitted to go out for essential services
Here is the text of the news release:
ANNAPOLIS, MD—As the COVID-19 crisis escalates in the National Capital Region, Governor Larry Hogan today issued a Stay at Home order to protect public health and safety. The order, which takes effect at 8:00 p.m. tonight, states that no Maryland resident should leave their home unless it is for an essential job or for an essential reason, such as obtaining food or medicine, seeking urgent medical attention, or for other necessary purposes.
“This is a deadly public health crisis—we are no longer asking or suggesting that Marylanders stay home, we are directing them to do so,” said Governor Hogan. “No Maryland resident should be leaving their home unless it is for an essential job or for an essential reason such as obtaining food or medicine, seeking urgent medical attention, or for other necessary purposes.”
To be clear: the stay-at-home order is not a full lockdown. Maryland has implemented a list of restrictions and enforcements to ensure everyone is safe but has deemed some activities as essential.
Here is a list of some activities that are considered essential, according to the order:
For the full executive order: https://www.baltimoresun.com/coronavirus/bs-md-stay-at-home-document-20200330-54bdwlwzgbeanly54akhuzsyf4-htmlstory.html.
03/31/2020
Hello Members, Volunteers, and Friends,
This email covers the following topics:
Senior Center Without Walls, the award-winning California-based program of the Episcopal Senior Communities, is available nationwide for telephone access as well as on-line access. The courses, covering a range of topics, are free. For more information and to register call 877-797-7299. Staff is working from home and answering calls as they can, so expect delays in getting return calls. http://www.seniorcenterwithoutwalls.org/
2. Consumer Reports Facebook Live Event
Consumer Reports is hosting a Facebook Live event on Tuesday, March 24 with its experts to help you navigate this crisis. You do not need to be on Facebook to see the event which will also be available afterwards.
The event has tips and advice on how best to protect yourself from catching the virus, what to do if you think you have symptoms, and how to cope with self-quarantines and community lockdowns.
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Facebook Live Event |
By joining the event at 3 p.m. ET, you’ll have the opportunity to participate and ask questions. If you can’t join in real-time, you can still watch the event afterward at this link. (You can view the event even if you’re not on Facebook).
3. Important Update from the Montgomery County Regional Services Center.
On March 23, Governor Hogan ordered all non-essential businesses to close. Businesses exempt from the shutdown include those in the following fields: health care, food, liquor, agriculture, energy, public works, community government, public safety, law enforcement, critical manufacturing, financial services, water and wastewater industries. Please see the link for more information on this as well as grant and loan programs for small business, emergency relief package for businesses and vulnerable residents, parking restrictions update, Metrobus information and other updates. Here is the link: http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?m=1103963123997&ca=c1760ae6-81e9-4449-8533-b8ad115f9ada
The above link also includes a very useful resource list (see below).
County Councilmember Craig Rice has a useful list of resources for the community during the COVID-19 emergency. Here's a sampling:
4. Centralized Restaurant Information.
There is an online restaurant directory – MoCo Eats – dedicated to promoting food and drink establishments looking to communicate their pick up, delivery, and beer and wine offerings to Montgomery County residents. This interactive website and map via www.MocoEats.com enables a consumer to search for a listing, filter by type of category and city, and view any special promotions a restaurant is offering.
Some local restaurants are open for pick up including Friendship Heights
Gourmet Market 301 951-0951. As of when we wrote this, Potbelly 301 818-6333, Lia’s 240 223-5427, Chipolte 301 654-6661, Meiwah 301 652-9882, Alfio’s 301 657-9133, and Clyde’s 301 951-9600 are also open for takeout. Potbelly, Lia’s, Meiwah, Alfio’s, and Clyde’s have delivery options but call to confirm.
5. VIRTUAL CHERRY BLOSSOMS
Click on the Cherry Blossom 24/7 webcam to enjoy our beautiful cherry blossoms – virtually! https://nationalmall.org/bloomcam Here’s another webcamlink https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wk3czL8OR70 (maybe it’s me, but there seem to be a whole lot of people walking the path among the blossoms, and they’re not 6-feet apart!)
6. FREE ONLINE EXERCISE WITH LIVE VIDEOS THROUGH FlexTogether.
During the COVID situation, FlexTogether is offering a free, online fitness studio for older adults (or anyone, really!). You can do it solo or with a buddy if you have a camera on your smartphone or computer.
Login to this site & register. No credit card information is needed, and no password needed, as your computer/device will remember you the next time you login. Here’s the link: https://flex2.co If you want to ask questions, call (424) 269-2000.
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Nonprofit FHNN helps seniors age in place. See www.fhneighbors.org.
Visitors are welcome. Donations from visitors are gratefully accepted. Phone: 240.620.3285 or information.fhnn@gmail.com. The News portion of our website has FHNN updates.
03/24/2020
Serious Eats article on Food Safety and the Coronavirus: https://www.seriouseats.com/2020/03/food-safety-and-coronavirus-a-comprehensive-guide.html
03/23/2020
Suburban Hospital wants our neighbors to be informed and safe during these trying times. We understand that our older neighbors are particularly vulnerable to viruses, and COVD-19 is no exception. In some cases, frequent and thorough handwashing and personal hygiene, covering coughs, and reducing contact with others as much as possible may not prevent one from developing flu-like symptoms. In these cases, you may to be screened and tested for corona virus and influenza. Please follow the following guidance with regards to identifying a screening and testing location:
I have a primary care physician
· Call your primary care physician’s office first. Share your symptoms, including recent travel and exposure, and follow their guidance. It is important to initiate these inquiries by telephone first to reduce the amount of exposure to self and others.
· Suburban Hospital is NOT currently a testing site for community members or the public who want or need to be tested. Your primary physician can direct you best if you are ill. Urgent Care and Emergency Rooms are an option if you feel you need immediate care.
I have a primary care physician through Johns Hopkins Community Physicians or Potomac Physicians Associates
· Call your primary care physician’s office first. In most cases, you will be screened via telephone and given an order and appointment time to be tested at Suburban Hospital if it is deemed that you should be tested for influenza and COVID-19.
· No one without an order will be permitted to enter; bring a photo ID and verification of your appointment to the testing location. You will be tested while remaining in your vehicle.
· Your samples will be sent to the Johns Hopkins laboratory in Baltimore and results will be available in MyChart within 24 -48hours.
I do NOT have a primary care physician
· Call your local urgent care center to let them know to expect you before arriving. To reduce exposure of self and others, it is best to call to see about appointments or wait times.
· If you do not have health insurance: Maryland Health Benefit Exchange has announced a Special Enrollment Period during Maryland’s Coronavirus (COVID-19) State of Emergency. Starting March 16, 2020, uninsured Maryland residents now have an additional opportunity to sign up for health coverage through Maryland Health Connection (MHC), the state-based health insurance Marketplace
When should I come to the hospital?
· You should only come in to the hospital if you are experiencing severe breathing difficulties or potentially life-threatening symptoms.
· Prior to being aware of COVID-19, would your symptoms have prompted you to seek medical attention? If “No…”, then please stay home and call your primary care physician. If “Yes…”, or if you are instructed by your care provider, please go to your nearest Urgent Care, Emergency Provider, or dial 911.
· All 6 Montgomery County hospitals have expanded their triage capabilities
· If you are sick with flu-like symptoms and go to an emergency room, you may be screened for COVID-19 and testing will be performed only if risk factors have been met.
· If your symptoms are mild, please stay home if you feel sick. To help reduce the spread of COVID-19, it is best to practice social distancing
What are other resources available to me?
· Hotline #211- The State of Maryland has set up a public hotline for questions about testing and potential exposure to COVID-19
· Hotline #240-777-1755- The Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services hotline
· The Maryland Department of Aging is issuing additional information on the Senior Call Check program as a free resource to MD residents over 65+ and recommending all seniors use the program as a resource during the COVID-19 global pandemic. Senior Call Check phone lines are open Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm and Saturday 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. During these hours, seniors can call toll-free 1-866-50-CHECK (1-866-502-0560) and register. Registration is also available online at aging.maryland.gov. * more information at the bottom of this email
Why am I seeing tents outside of hospitals?
· Hospitals in Montgomery County Prepare for COVID-19 Virus Spread
About the Senior Call Check Program
The Senior Call Check participants receive an automated call every day. These calls will take place within a time frame chosen by the participant. If the participant does not answer their first call, they will be called two additional times in the same day. If those calls go unanswered, an alternate person, selected by the participant, will be notified. This alternate could be an adult child, a neighbor, or anyone designated as a reliable contact. The alternate will then be asked to check on the participant. For those who do not have an alternate or whose alternate is unresponsive, the state will call local law enforcement to conduct a wellness check.
This situation is changing rapidly. We will continue to collect and share information with you as becomes available.
03/20/2020
Update on tents at hospitals to screen COVID-19 patients
The six county hospitals below now have tents installed outside to triage patients who have symptoms that are concerning for COVID-19. The tents not only create a larger space to triage, screen and test those individuals, they protect other patients and staff from exposure and free up capacity in the emergency rooms for other patients.
• Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center, Silver Spring
• Suburban Hospital, Bethesda
• Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center, Rockville
• Holy Cross Hospital, Silver Spring
• Holy Cross Hospital, Germantown
• Medstar Montgomery Medical Center, Olney
Tents for the hospitals were supplied and erected by Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service, with support from the National Guard.
"Seniors-Only" grocery store shopping hours
Target and Whole Foods are each offering “seniors-only” shopping hours in all of their Montgomery County stores and four local stores are also participating in this special program. The hours vary from store to store.
Check the list located at https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/HHS/Resources/Files/COVID19GroceryStores.pdf for participating stores:
• Global Food, Silver Spring
• Grosvenor Market, Rockville
• Dawson's Market, Rockville
• Roots Market, Olney
• Whole Foods, Kentlands
• Whole Foods, Rockville
• Whole Foods, Silver Spring
• Whole Foods, Bethesda
• Whole Foods, Friendship Heights
• Target, Gaithersburg
• Target, RockvilleCurbside parking changes to support restaurants
The county Department of Transportation (MCDOT) has established "No Parking" zones in areas with high concentrations of restaurants - Bethesda and Silver Spring - and converted them to "curbside food pickup" zones. They are in front of restaurants that have suspended full service under Gov. Hogan's statewide order and now offer take-out service.
Drivers may park in these new "curbside food pickup" zones for up to 15 minutes.
The areas designated as "No Parking" to allow curbside restaurant access are subject to change. MCDOT is open to consideration of expanding the changes to support other areas currently controlled by curbside parking meters. To request additional locations, contact Jeremy.Souders@montgomerycountymd.gov
Free parking at two county garages in Bethesda and Silver Spring
The Auburn/Del Ray garage in Bethesda and the Bonifant/Dixon garage in Silver Spring will temporarily not require payment, in an effort to minimize the financial impacts of the COVID-19 emergency on county residents.Visit the County's COVID-19 Closures website for a comprehensive list of County closures. For more information, including COVID-19 videos and more, visit the County's COVID-19 website and monitor the County's social media for breaking news and other updates.
03/19/2020
Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich announced a list of stores that have created senior/immune-compromised hours: https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/HHS/Resources/Files/COVID19GroceryStores.pdf
03/19/2020
Hello FHNN, Most of this email is about ways to stay busy at home for the next few weeks. We also want you to know that some of the grocery stores are adjusting their hours. As of the time of this message, our Whole Foods is now open for seniors every day from 7:00 am to 8:00 am. We were told since they stock at night, this is a good time to shop. We will continue to update you as we learn more.
Please keep reading for some ways to help remedy cabin fever. Please send your suggestions to information.fhnn@gmail.com so we can share your ideas in updates.
Catch up on reading. While the libraries are closed, you can take advantage of the electronic resources provided by Montgomery County. A full list of available E/Audiobooks, streaming media, online learning platforms, library apps and research databases is available 24/7, https://mcpl.link/DigitalResources You also can support your local bookstores, including Politics and Prose, at https://www.politics-prose.com/ and have items delivered to your home. The store also offers curbside pick up and has an online speakers’ series.
Looking for more reading options? Free eBooks through Project Gutenberg
Are you missing trips to museums? Museums with online tours
Want to explore online learning options, some of which you could do with your younger relatives and friends?
Open Culture - free resources and courses for almost anything
Do you want to register to vote absentee in Maryland? The primary is now on June 2.
https://voterservices.elections.maryland.gov/OnlineVoterRegistration/InstructionsStep1
This is a good time to stay connected. Pick up the phone and talk to your friends and family. Video conferencing apps like FaceTime https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT204380 or Skype enable you to connect with your friends and family in a meaningful way.
Please see our second post for more information. What are you doing to keep busy? Please email us at information.fhnn@gmail.com.
03/18/2020
This is a continuation of our previous posting.
Relax with meditation. There is a free, upcoming 5- day seminar (March 25-29) with Thich Nhat Hahn teachings that looks interesting, "In the Footstep of Thich Nhat Hahn: https://promo.lionsroar.com/free-summit-thich-nhat-hanh/
You may want to read an article from Tricycle Magazine (an excellent Buddhist magazine): https://tricycle.org/trikedaily/coronavirus-meditations/
Looking for yoga resources?
Seated yoga for seniors: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KEjiXtb2hRg (25 min)
Chair yoga mindfulness https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fkl88Nq3BiU (25 min)
Mindful chair yoga with meditation https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XMps5-PIJHA (10 min)
Get organized. Use this time to clean out your closets and drawers. Start small, organize just one drawer.
Is free opera something you would enjoy? Make a date with the Metropolitan Opera which is offering free streaming nightly at 7:30 pm, and the music remains on the website for 20 hours if that time does not work for you.
Try something new. WAMU's DCist outlines ways to stream movies, magazines, exercise classes, even strolling through Smithsonian archives!
Do you enjoy games? How long has it been since you played board games like chess? For a new experience try online board games.
Learn a New Skill. You can go to YouTube and type "How to..." in the search box to learn how to do almost anything.
Listen to a podcast. There are so many interesting podcasts out there. Check out Time Magazine's recommendations of the 50 Best Podcasts to find something that meets your interests.
Keep laughing. Try the U-Tube videos of the great comedians below to get you smiling and laughing again. We featured these links in our January Newsletter.
Take Yale classes for free! https://oyc.yale.edu/ Many universities have open, free classes for all. You do not need to have any connection to the school. The Yale ones have been recommended to us.
Try the TED talks! TED Talks are videos from expert speakers on education, business, science, tech and creativity, with subtitles in 100+ languages, free to stream and download.
We will keep adding to this list. What are you doing to keep busy? Please email us at information.fhnn@gmail.com
03/18/2020
Governor Hogan has issued an amended executive order to close all bars and restaurants in the state effective at 5:00 p.m. on March 16, 2020. The order allows for restaurants to continue carry-out, drive-thru, and delivery services, and allows for eateries in health care facilities to remain open.
Governor Hogan also announced a public health surge to combat the COVID-19 crisis.
To view the statement, please click here.
03/17/2020
The FHNN Board of Directors is concerned about members, friends, and all of us as we face the challenge of COVID-19 with the rest of the country and world. We believe in following the guidance issued by the WHO, CDC, and state and local health officials all of whom are recommending social distancing at this time, along with other measures.
As a result, FHNN will be temporarily cancelling or postponing events based on the latest guidance. For the month of March, we will be cancelling the birthday party scheduled for March 17, the Elizabeth Building Briefing, and Crafts and Chat scheduled for March 26. We also are cancelling the Men’s Lunch for April 2 and postponing the FHNN Annual Happening fund-raiser for April 19 to a later time. Meditation and Walking Groups will continue meeting, and participants will make their own choice about attending these meet ups. Any questions about participating in the Meditation Group, please contact Linda Herson (volunteer.fhnn@gmail.com); Walking Group participants, please contact Ethel Pacheco at ethelpacheco@me.com. We will re-evaluate the overall situation at the end of March and make an announcement about April at that time.
We are aware that all members—both full and social—may want to interact, and some may need greater support at this time. Thus:
We will continue to offer Full members volunteer support including grocery shopping, and transportation to important appointments with workarounds as necessary. We are exploring other added assistance including web conferencing to host programs, friendly phone calls (see above), and assistance with on-line orders for groceries. We also will continue to forward pertinent information about COVID-19 from Federal, state and local officials as that becomes available.
For more information about FHNN, please see our website at www.fhneighbors.org, email us at information.fhnn@gmail.com, or call us at 240-620-3285.
Our best to all and be well.
Constance Row, President, for the Board of Directors
Friendship Heights Neighbors Network
03/15/2020
All, We wanted to share with you information we have recently received from Montgomery County, MD.
For Immediate Release: Friday, February 28, 2020
As federal officials continue to monitor the outbreak of respiratory illnesses caused by a new form of coronavirus first detected in Wuhan, China, County Executive Marc Elrich and County health and emergency management officials are coordinating efforts across agencies as well as with state officials and healthcare providers to ensure we are prepared for the situation as it evolves.
Currently, there are no cases of COVID-19 in Maryland, Virginia, or the District of Columbia.
“While the risk to the general public still remains low in the United States, we are working closely with County agencies, schools and health-care providers to ensure that we are ready to respond to this evolving situation,” said County Health Officer Dr. Travis Gayles.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has advised state and local health departments to be prepared for community spread of COVID-19. The County’s Department of Health and Human Services is working with partners, including the Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, public safety agencies, Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS), and hospitals to plan for a response should there be cases in Montgomery County.
“We want to make sure that residents have access to information, and I encourage everyone to visit our website, which has a great deal of information about the virus and precautionary measures that people can take,” said Elrich. “Our primary focus is to ensure that people are educated and informed as this situation unfolds.”
County officials have taken the following steps to prepare:
While the immediate health risk from COVID-19 is low, residents should take simple steps to prepare:
Residents are encouraged to visit the website and sign up for Public Health and Environmental Alerts for critical updates. Sign up for alerts (listed under Montgomery County Government Alerts) through the County’s Alert Montgomery notification system.
02/28/2020
FHNN’s Holiday Sing-Along with Ann Hoopes and Member and Volunteer Recognition was held on Tuesday, December 17, 2019 at 4701 Willard. FHNN Member and Volunteer Ann Hoopes led the group in favorite seasonal songs. We celebrated our wonderful members and volunteers, and everyone enjoyed the occasion. FHNN had special chocolate treats for members and volunteers and real food (not just cookies) for all attendees. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of this party.
12/17/2019
Summary of Iris Lav’s presentation on Income Inequality – What Should Be Done?
Iris J. Lav, former Deputy Director of the Center on Budget and Policy, spoke on Income Inequality - What Should be Done? at the December 2019 Forum. She first showed that income grew equally among all income levels prior to 1980, but growth has since been concentrated in the top 5 percent and particularly in the top 1 percent. There has been little comparative growth in the middle- and lower-income segments of the population – widening the income inequality gap. She also showed that wealth inequality was even greater than income inequality today.
She pointed out that Investments to increase or improve educational opportunities, improve skills, or facilitate access to work would be helpful in potentially increasing income of the working population in the long run. Ms. Lav then focused on two shorter-term strategies that could more immediately affect income and wealth inequality: increasing the minimum wage and revising several different tax policies—particularly increasing taxation at the top of the income and wealth distribution and using that to improve policies that help lower- and middle-income households.
Ms. Lav showed historic income tax rates which at one time were as high as 91% in contrast to present top rates of 37% after the 2017 tax changes. Increasing the income tax rate is an obvious way to redistribute income. Other taxation policies that should be considered are an increase in the capital gains tax and reducing the Estate Tax threshold and exemptions. The Estate Tax exempts the first $11.2 million of estates; only 1 in 1,000 estates owe estate tax. Other aspects of Estate taxation also could be altered to reduce intergenerational transfer of wealth. She also reviewed other ways of increasing taxation of the highest-income taxpayers by reducing or eliminating the lower tax rates for capital gains and dividends and closing certain loopholes. Focusing IRS audits on those of high net worth rather than those receiving government support could collect at least a trillion dollars over the next decade. Using some additional funds to improve policies such as the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit could bolster lower- and middle-income families.
The talk elicited many comments and questions about tax policy from the large, interested and engaged audience.
12/12/2019
At the November 20, 2019 FHNN Forum event, James C. Jones, PhD showed photos from 45 years ago of two Bolivian Amazonian ethnic groups. After showing the Amazonian topography of Bolivia, which is its largest land mass, he identified two remote areas which he visited and where he worked.
One of the areas, on the extensive savannas, had been part of an ancient civilization that had built raised fields for agriculture and constructed communication canals and causeways to connect settlements as early as 2,000 years ago. This area was the site of a Jesuit mission province during the 17th and 18th centuries. Indians living there today are descendants of Indians who settled in those missions.
Dr. Jones took over 1,000 pictures while doing field work in the two areas. The other area, very remote, lies at the base of the eastern range of the Andes, and was home to the Chimán ethnic group whose members lived much as did the pre-Columbian ancestors of today’s savanna-dwelling mission Indians. These Chimán were in contact with the outside world through a trader who exchanged sundry wares for wild-animal skins. Dr. Jones showed pictures of adults and children in traditional body-length garb, of women weaving on looms, and of homes with palm-thatched roofs and open sides that accommodated extended families. He also showed fish dazed by toxic plants dropped in the water to stun them as they floated downstream to be shot by Indians with arrows. The fish were then cooked immediately over an open fire.
Natives of both groups planted cassava and plantains (and the savanna dwellers rice) and consumed wild game, fish, and wild fruit. Because of seasonal rains alternating with dry periods, the Chimán moved seasonally between river and forest for food. After a brief intermission, Dr. Jones continued with photographs of the “Jesuitized” natives with whom he lived for 3 years. That group lived in small settlements around a town founded by the early Jesuits. These Indians had small farms or worked on numerous non-Indian ranches in the area. The savannas were grazed by cattle owned by ranchers who had pushed the Indians off their traditional lands and into nearby forests since the 1950s. He showed pictures of an airstrip slaughterhouse, where cattle were slaughtered and air-lifted to highland cities to supply them with beef. He traveled and took pictures on one of these flights, sitting around carcasses of fresh beef in an aging DC-4 as it rose above the savannas and threaded its way to La Paz through narrow Andean passes.
Dr. Jones also showed pictures of the small town of San Ignacio de Moxos, founded by the early Jesuits and where he lived while doing research in the area. These “Jesuitized” Indians practiced a medieval Catholicism, yet beneath which lay a strong patina of pre-Columbian beliefs in spirits of the rivers, lakes, savannas, and forests. The natives celebrated all of the Catholic feast days with elaborate fiestas and costumes, pictures of some of which Dr. Jones presented. These Catholic natives dressed mostly in Western attire, yet in religious ceremonies they often donned attire reminiscent of that of the Chimán.
Dr. Jones answered questions about the lives of the two groups and detailed some of the changes that had had occurred in the area over the 45 years since he had lived there. He noted that the town of San Ignacio is more heavily populated. The village is larger, there were some paved road and highways connecting villages, and people were more likely to work in a cash economy. Poverty and evidence of malnutrition were still very present. Dr. Jones also spoke briefly about the current contentious Bolivian political environment and tensions between native populations and their more-Western urban counterparts.
11/20/2019
Below is a summary of Dr. Jay Herson’s October 15, 2019 presentation including questions to ask doctors and links to useful sites.
The clinical trials for new drugs whose results are necessary for FDA approval for marketing do not enroll patients representative of those who may take the drug once approved. This is especially true for seniors.
Dr. Herson explained that patients who have chronic conditions other than the one for which the new drug is being tested and/or are taking drugs for other conditions are usually rejected from clinical trials. That is because of the difficulties in evaluating the efficacy (effectiveness) and safety of the new drug. He also pointed out that seniors, even if eligible, may not choose to be in a clinical trial due to the interruption in lifestyle caused by having to adhere to a rigid schedule, receiving care from unfamiliar doctors and nurses, and fear of being randomized to a placebo (a substance that has no therapeutic effect).
Dr. Herson described the various phases of drug development: Phase I -safety in animal studies and small number of humans, Phase II - efficacy and safety in a larger human study group, and Phase III – the largest trial in humans that demonstrates to the FDA all that is known about efficacy and safety of the new drug. The Phase III trials are randomized, which means by chance half the patients will get the new drug and half will get a placebo that is also the control group. In cancer drug trials the control group would not be on a placebo but on an already approved drug for the particular cancer type.
Addressing the issue of learning more about drug safety and the elderly, Dr. Herson had some good news—resources for physicians and patients. The Beers List of Medications, published annually since 1991 by the American Geriatric Society, provides expert opinion on drugs found not to be safe for seniors. FDA’s Drug Trial Snapshots is another resource; it indicates what percent of the data submitted to FDA supporting drug approval for a specific drug candidate involved patients over 65.
Dr. Herson closed with four questions seniors should ask their physician when prescribed a new drug: 1) What evidence does he/she have on the safety/efficacy of this drug for your age and health history? 2) Has he/she consulted the Beers List? 3) Has he/she consulted FDA Drug Trial Snapshots? and 4) Are there alternate drugs where more evidence has accumulated for use in the elderly?
References:
A complete list of clinical trials can be found at https://clinicaltrials.gov/.
Beer’s List of Do Not Use Medications: https://www.pharmacist.com/beers-revised-drugs-not-use-older-adults
A recording of Dr. Herson’s presentation can be found on Youtube.com by searching for Clinical Trials Elderly or just go straight to
10/15/2019
FHNN scheduled a trip to the Antietam battlefield, followed by lunch at the Bavarian Inn in Shepherdstown, on Wednesday, October 2, 2019. A bus (with a restroom and other amenities) was used for the drive there (1.6 hours). After a brief stop at the Antietam Visitors Center, the bus continued the well designed, roadway tour of the battlefield narrated by a local guide who provided interesting details about the battle. The bus stopped at important sites so that those interested in walking around important locations could do so. The 1862 battle ended the Confederacy’s first invasion of the North, blocked any formal recognition of the Confederacy by Great Britain and France, and gave Lincoln the opportunity to issue the Emancipation Proclamation. Many view the battle as an important turning point in American history. The cost was $20 per person, plus the charge for each person’s `lunch. It was a wonderful day for FHNN members and volunteers plus members of other nearby Villages. During the ride to the battlefield, a video was shown on the bus to provide background information.
10/02/2019
May 19 Friendship Happening – A Great Success!
FHNN members and volunteers, plus other Friendship Heights residents and guests, filled the Center’s Huntley Hall to hear our Congressman Jamie Raskin and our State representatives Marc Korman, Susan Lee and Sara Love. Congressman Raskin spent half an hour answering questions on a wide range of national issues. He dubbed the questions “better than NPR.” After a break for refreshments and visiting with friends – new and old – our State representatives discussed the work of their last legislative session and answered questions about State issues. Congressman Raskin and the State representatives received enthusiastic applause. With a combination of sponsorships, donations and ticket sales, the Friendship Happening was a great fundraising success, which will help to support the work of FHNN in the coming months.
05/19/2019
On Friday, May 17, 2019, a group of FHNN members and volunteers enjoyed a wonderful visit to Glenstone Museum, the celebrated new art center in Montgomery County. This was a self-guided tour of the new addition (the Pavilions) as well as the original building and gardens. Tickets were available on a priority basis to full and social members. FHNN provided transportation to full members and assisted in arranging carpools for other people in the FHNN group. Since tickets to the museum are free and transportation was provided by volunteers, there was no cost to visit this wonderful museum.
05/17/2019
If you missed the April 17 presentation, please see the excellent summary by Dr. David Rabin, the member of our Board who also coordinates the Speaker Series.
Officer Dana Stroman of the Bethesda Chevy Chase Area Police Department spoke about safety issues for seniors at our April Forum. She noted that Montgomery County with a large elderly population is overall a low-crime area. Nevertheless, there are many new forms of crime that relate to technologies that are particularly problematic for seniors. One is use of Bank credit card money withdrawal machines. Some have been tampered with so that credit card information can be recorded as it is entered into the card slot. Check to see if the slot unit is loose - if so that indicates the unit may have been tampered with. Another is placement of a tiny camera the size of a pin head at the top of the unit which can photograph your card. She suggested placing your hand or a piece of paper above your card as you insert it into the card reader slot so that the card number cannot be seen. Another emerging problem is use of small handheld devices that can record card information while a card transaction is occurring. This occurs in restaurants and retail establishments. Desirably these transactions should occur at your table or in front of you at a retail store.
Officer Stroman also discussed driving safety, encouraging seniors to respond to the evolving slower reaction times, diminished visual acuity and slower decision making occurring with aging. She suggested particular care at intersections, making left turns, entering highways or the beltway, and at traffic circles, by either by avoiding them or taking extra caution.
She reviewed the many telephone and cell phone scams and how clever their operators are in deceiving people who pick up calls from unknown telephone numbers. She suggests caution on any requests for money or information, stressing the fact that government agencies like the Social Security Agency, Treasury Department and the police do not make soliciting or threatening calls. She suggests not revealing your name and querying a caller as to how they got your name, number and who they are. Never reveal credit-card information or send money even for apparent emergency requests without further checking with family and friends about the legitimacy of requests for emergency funds.
She encouraged people to notify police when there are concerns about possible bad behavior. It is through public reporting of incidents that authorities can understand the extent of problems and seek solutions. When there is a possible threat or suspicious behavior, please call 911 or if it is not an emergency, 301 279-8000.
04/17/2019
Volunteer leaders Linda Herson and Beth Warner trained new volunteers on February 9. The group learned about FHNN and how volunteers can assist our Full Members with services such as driving to medical appointments, picking up groceries, reading for those with sight impairment, and making friendly calls. Volunteers learned about other opportunities to help FHNN grow in its mission to assist our senior neighbors. The training was an opportunity to meet neighbors, ask questions, and interact! Volunteers are always needed. Contact FHNN for more information.
02/09/2019
Friendship Heights Neighbors Network has received official IRS recognition of its tax exempt status under Section 501(c)(3), which means that your donations to it will be tax deductible. See Support Us to make a contribution.
11/09/2016
FHNN. Powered by Scan Archives © 2021 All Rights Reserved
Tel: (240) 620-3285
Email: information.fhnn@gmail.com
If you are interested in becoming a member or volunteer, please click on "Sign Up" at the top of any of the pages on our website. Even if you're not ready, you can still continue to get information by signing up as a "Village Friend" if you are in our neighborhood or "General Public" if you are outside the immediate area. Some of our upcoming events may be open to Our Friends and General Public as well as members and volunteers.
For donations to help support FHNN, please select "Support Us." Remember, we are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization so donations are tax deductible.
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FHNN. Powered by Scan Archives © 2021 All Rights Reserved
This site stores personal information about you, including your name, contact information (addresses, phone numbers, email), demographic data (date of birth, etc.), user name and password. FH Neighbors uses this information for membership activities, including event registration, tracking member interests, discussion forums, committees, donations, member directory, etc.
Within this website, only authorized administrators have access to personal information on members. FH Neighbors does not sell or trade membership data to third party vendors.
This website does not collect information as you navigate around the site, using standard Internet technologies (such as IP addresses and cookies, and reading your browser version, operating system and computer type, etc.)
Neither FH Neighbors nor village manager and board officers have direct access to your password or credit card information. This data is encrypted by the system using state of the art technologies and cannot directly be accessed. If you forget your password, we can reset it at your request. You will then be required to change it when you next log in.
FHNN will take all reasonable steps to protect the personal information of its members and shall, in no event, use the information for commercial purposes. However, when concerns regarding a member’s health or safety arise, FHNN reserves the right to contact those listed under the member’s contact information or any appropriate authority. FHNN may also use member information when required by law and to protect the legitimate rights of FHNN or its board, staff, volunteers or other members.
We do not send unsolicited email (aka spam) to email addresses in your club's database.
FH Neighbors will not sell or otherwise share your name or any contact information with any third parties, including partners, advertisers or service providers, except as necessary to fulfill your explicit requests. For example, when you renew your membership and pay online using a credit card, we must share data with the credit card processing company to approve the transaction. But we will never sell or share this data for marketing or revenue purposes.
FH Neighbors may generate and provide aggregate statistics about our club customers and their members, online traffic patterns and related information to customers and partners, but this information will not contain data which is individually identifiable or which can be linked back to a specific person, family, or business organization member.
We will disclose information if required to do so by law or by order of a competent government authority (such as a court order) or to protect FH Neighbors or a member club in the event of a threat against the company or an employee or club officer.
FH Neighbors' computers are hosted by an independent hosting company in their secure data center behind a firewall. Only authorized personnel have physical access to these computers. We take care to promptly install all service packs and security updates, and the data is backed up nightly. We continually test our platform to ensure that security is maintained. Confidential data is transmitted using SSL/TLS encryption; our SSL Certificate was issued by Global Sign, one of the most respected names in Internet security.
Within FH Neighbors, only authorized employees, who are trained in the proper handling of confidential customer information, have access to your records.
This website is not intended for unsupervised access by children under the age of 13. We will not knowingly collect information from site visitors of this age group. We encourage parents to talk to their children about their use of the Internet and the information they disclose online.
From time-to-time, based on customer feedback as well as changing community and legislative standards, FH Neighbors may modify this privacy policy without notice. Updated policies will be dated at the top of the page, so you should check back periodically to see if anything has changed.
Donations are collected in cash, check or by credit card processing. Donations are not refundable.
If you have any questions, comments, or concerns about this Privacy Policy or the information practices of this site, please contact us at:
FH Neighbors
4601 North Park Ave, Suite 1719
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
Phone: 240-620-3285
Email: information.fhnn@gmail.com
FHNN. Powered by Scan Archives © 2021 All Rights Reserved
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