Volume 11, Number 1 A joint publication of the residents and staff of Riderwood Village January 2018

In This Issue

End of the Year Crossword Puzzle Answers (Pg 4) Who Am I (Pg 4) Save the Date: Earth Day 2018 (Pg 5)Smart Phone Safety Features (Pg 5) Conversation with Admin (Pg 6) Talent Show Tickets (Pg 8)

By Chris Taydus, Robyn Hutson & Avedis AghguiguianRiderwood TV Team

Riderwood TV is headed in an exciting direction in 2018. This upcoming year, residents and staff will be able to tune into a new and improved channel 972 with new graphics, show openers, and programs produced by the residents and staff of Riderwood.

This work will build on Riderwood TV’s accomplishments in 2017. Last year, the Riderwood TV also welcomed new TV Production Coordinator Robyn Hutson and Community TV and Audio/Visual Manager Chris Taydus. Together with Community TV Production Coordinator Avedis Aghguiguian and the TV Studio’s resident volunteers, the Riderwood TV Team spent 2017 producing over 400 programs, overseeing the installation of a new set in the TV Studio, and upgrading a variety of equipment to help better produce high quality programming at a faster rate.

One of the most exciting new pieces of equipment is the mini video switcher. Together

with a new digital video recorder and portable audio board, the TV studio is able to produce multi-camera programs in the field, as opposed to recording the programs and taking additional time to edit them back in the studio. Towards the end of 2017, the studio used its new portable equipment to produce the Board of Directors Town Hall Meeting and the GraceNotes Winter Concert, allowing both programs to air within a much shorter time frame with less post-production work in the studio.

In 2018, the studio will continue its transition to high definition programming with the installation of new HD Cameras in the TV Studio at Lakeside Commons along with fiber optic cables runs from TV Studio to the cable distribution center in Village Square. The fiber optic runs will also run from Maryland Hall, Encore Theater, and the Chapel back to the TV studio, allowing for future town hall meeting and large events to be broadcast live from those locations.

Community TV Manager Chris Taydus, who now is responsible for campus Audio/Visual equipment as well, will also be overseeing the

installation of new HD robotic cameras in the Chapel, replacing the existing outdated one, and Encore Theater. These robotic will make filming events in those locations easier for residents and staff, and will prevent TV studio equipment from being needed during said events, allowing more freedom for the studio staff to schedule other productions.

To assist the efforts in improving Riderwood TV content, the studio is pushing for more volunteers to serve as hosts, producers, equipment operators, and much more. The quality of the campus channel not only depends on the hard work of the TV staff, but also the involvement of residents. Your experience, stories, and creativity are welcome and greatly appreciated.

If you or someone you know would like to get involved with Riderwood TV, please contact the TV staff or stop by the studio to fill out an interest form. No experience is necessary. The studio also holds programming meetings led by Avedis Aghguiguian the first Wednesday of the month, starting January 3. The TV team looks forward to hearing your ideas and working with you this year.

Get involved with Riderwood TV in the new year

By Almeda GirodResident Writer

Dr. Andrew Kundrat, Director of the Riderwood Medical Center, suggests that one make new year’s resolutions not to meet a goal, but rather plan the process and the goal will happen organically. Pam Silverwood follows this advice as she resolves to go to the fitness center and cut desserts in an effort to take better care of her health. She admits that by February her dedication wanes.

Paul and Natalie Forbes do not make new year’s resolutions but rather choose to make course corrections through the year. Teddi Kaplan, President of the Performing Arts Council, makes a yearly resolution to organize her desk. Though

Teddi won’t reveal whether or not she is successful with that plan.

Sylvia Eliot makes new year’s resolutions several times a year. Beginning with Rosh Hashanah, the fall Jewish holiday that coincides with the beginning of the school year. As a teacher she would resolve to plan lessons regularly, correct tests promptly and be available for students. The first Sunday of Advent (4 weeks before Christmas) she would vow to focus on her spiritual life. Jan 1 was a time for practical resolutions such as paying bills promptly and organizing clothes. During Lent, Sylvia would be repentant for resolutions not kept and would focus on 2-3 of the more important ones and then repeat the process at Rosh Hashanah in the autumn.

(continued on page 4)

Residents celebrate new year with annual New Year’s resolutions

By Corrinne LennoxResident Writer

The author Anatole France wrote, “All changes, even the most longed for, have their melancholy; for what we leave behind is part of ourselves.”

Long-term residents at Riderwood will say “I love it here--there are always things to do, people to talk with.” Newer residents, however, are frequently mixed in their feelings about the move and not always knowing exactly why.

Some years ago, Riderwood conducted a workshop on transition for the medical staff. It was noted there that in times of major change, even good ones, a transition period is necessary.

A new resident, for example, who has recently sold the house in which he or she lived for years, may say to himself “this place is beautiful, we have everything we need, so why am I feeling bad?” In the transition workshop, it was pointed out that in any change, we must first acknowledge and go through a certain transition period to arrive at a happier point. Also stressed, was the importance of distinguishing between what is and what isn’t over.

(continued on page 3)

Dealing with change at Riderwood

Page 2 | RiderwoodTV.com | Riderwood Reporter | RiderwoodLife.org | January 2018

courage to see things as they truly are. The courage to reach out to others whether they be friends or strangers. The courage to take part in the work of community. Augustine of Hippo is said to have observed that “Hope has two beautiful daughters; their names are Anger and Courage. Anger at the way things are, and Courage to see that they do not remain as they are.”

It is easy to become fixated on anger, to allow it to consume us! However, as hopeful members of a strong and healthy community, we cannot let that be the final word, we must turn that anger to positive action for the benefit of the whole.

The journalist Ellen Goodman noted that “We spend January 1 walking through our lives, room by room, drawing up a list of work to be done, cracks to be patched. Maybe this year, to balance the list, we ought to walk through the rooms of our lives…not looking for flaws, but for potential.” With the arrival of 2018, I ask that we search for that potential, look to our neighbors, kindle the hope that strengthens, and continue the work of community.

I wish you all the best for a happy, healthy, and prosperous new year!

By Mickey ThaxtonAssociate Executive Director

It seems to me that the headlines this year have been rife with stories of political turmoil, violence, natural disasters, oppression, and uncertainty. And yet, the promise of the new year and its possibilities never fails

to kindle a spirit of hope and optimism.The ancient Romans, doubtless calling to

mind the myth of Pandora’s box, revered a deity they referred to as Spes Ultima Dea, (Hope, the Last Goddess), often depicted holding a cornucopia in one arm and flowers in the other. In Roman culture, hope was thought of as humanity’s last resource, and thus the goddess had two temples devoted to her within the boundaries of the city center. Hope transcends all time, generations, peoples, and cultures. It is something that arises from within, but can also be given (as well as taken).

One of the many benefits to living in a community is the support, friendship, love, and hope that others bring. Yet, as my father often reminded me, hope alone is not always enough. Hope requires action, and action often requires courage. The

Greetings from Administration: Year of turmoil, year of possibility

By Tom KelleyHuman Resource/Sales & Marketing Liaison, Resident Advisory Council

Late in 2016 I was approached and asked if I would be a candidate for the upcoming RAC election. Initially I declined but as I continued to think about the

possibility of being a candidate I changed my mind. I contacted those in charge and told them of my decision. Today as I look back I see it was a good decision. Since my election I can see how I have grown in my ability to listen to your concerns and then be able to represent you in trying to find solutions for the issues you raise. I have found in my colleagues on the RAC a very dedicated group who want nothing but the best for all the residents of Riderwood. I have also found the way the administration listens to the suggestions made and the trust they place in us to be beyond description.

RAC has had a very busy year. We continue to deal with the problems of parking, and the ongoing construction on campus. We have made budget suggestions for the coming year. We held an open meeting with the Director of Finance Mark Embley sharing the financial status of Riderwood with the residents. We are now in the process of the formation of a Health Services Committee. More about this issue will be forthcoming in the days ahead. We were also a part of the Erickson Regional meeting with five other RAC teams from other Erickson communities

Looking back, I can say I made a good decision to become a candidate for the RAC. I ask you to think seriously about the possibility of your willingness to become involved as a possible candidate for the upcoming election. Riderwood is a unique community. It has been a great gift to me and to others when we meet in conversation to hear of the treasure of talent within this community. Why not use those talents and experiences to make our community even better? I personally know all the excuses and I used them, but I’m pleased to be a part of making Riderwood an even better place. How about you?

From the Resident Advisory Council: Why should you run for the RAC?

By Pat DavisDirector Living in Community, National Senior Campuses Board

Happy New Year! It’s great to have a fresh start from time to time, and Riderwood’s Board of Directors is looking forward to some important changes in 2018. In this spot for the next several months, and also in TV interviews and other conversations, I’ll explain what’s coming and what it will mean for our community. Here’s Part I:

On April 1, 2018 there will be a change in the membership of Riderwood’s Board of Directors. From that date on, our Board will consist of the 15 members of the Board of Directors of National Senior Campuses (NSC), Riderwood’s supporting organization, plus me as Riderwood’s “Director Living in Community.” (Note that my title, and that of my counterparts at other Erickson Living communities has changed from Resident Director to Director Living in Community to emphasize the fact that all Directors share the same duties of prudent care, doyalty to the organization with no conflicts of interest, and obedience to the non-profit mission.) Five of our current nine board members will continue on the new board.

The boards of all of our Erickson-managed CCRCs will be constituted in the same way: the 15 NSC directors plus the director living in community. This change, as compared to the present structure of separate boards serving each of four regions, will facilitate quick decision-making across a rapidly expanding organization, promote consistency in major programs and policies, enhance efficiency and communication, and reduce costs.

Each community Board will continue to meet quarterly, and communication will be enhanced through a Community Relations Committee which you will see and interact with regularly. More about the Community Relations Committee and its role in the community next month.

From the Resident Director’s desk

Have an idea for a TV program? Riderwood TV

always welcomes suggestions. Contact Avedis Aghguiguian

at 301-572-8457 or aaghguiguian@

erickson.com.

The Riderwood ReporterThe Riderwood Reporter aims to appeal to our diverse population. Our priority is to inform residents and staff about community news. Articles are accepted and edited at the discretion of the

publisher, editors, and the Editorial Board.

Editor-in-ChiefLayout Editor

Associate EditorPublisher

Associate Publishers

Proof Editors

Resident Writers

Robyn HutsonChris TaydusAvedis AghguiguianGary HibbsMickey ThaxtonDee Dee Gray-WeaverAmy HahnMargaret HartBarbara LampeElizabeth WhiteAlmeda GirodCorrinne LennoxSteve MayerBob MerikangasMartha Robinson

The Editorial Board establishes policies and procedures to effectively serve the community, publish The Reporter, and produce programming

on Riderwood TV.

Riderwood Media Editorial BoardAvedis Aghguiguian

Shirley DearfieldRobyn HutsonBette Martin

Levern AllenFiona Divecha

Michelle GlodeckLew Rhodes

Chris Taydus

If you have any questions or would like to submit an article for the next issue of the newspaper, please contact Editor-in-Chief Robyn Hutson at rhutson@erickson.com or call

301-572-8399 x 606-2077

Submissions for the February edition of The Riderwood Reporter are due by 5:00 p.m.

on Monday, January 15.

January 2018 | RiderwoodTV.com | Riderwood Reporter | RiderwoodLife.org | Page 3

“....a crucial measure of our success in life is the way we treat one another

every day of our lives.”- P.M. Forni

By Amy HahnMember, CommUNITY Living Committee

Happy New Year! As we welcome in 2018, it is a great time to reflect on last year and to make resolutions for the new year.

The CommUNITY Living Committee had a busy, productive year of sharing the message to “Choose Civility.” We organized positive quotes posted in lobbies, articles in the newspaper, presentations to different groups, a round table discussion event, and to top off the year, a wonderful presentation by Daniel L. Buccino, director of the Johns Hopkins Civility Initiative.

From “The Twenty-Five Rules of Considerate Conduct” that P. M. Forni presents in Choosing Civility, the CommUNITY Living Committee has chosen 12 and calls them the 12 Principles of Considerate Conduct. They are: pay attention, acknowledge others, listen, be inclusive, speak kindly, respect for others’ opinion, mind your body, respect other people’s time, respect other people’s space, refrain from idle complaints, respect the environment, and avoid personal questions

We encourage everyone to consider these 12 principles as your New Year’s resolutions. Living in a community involves civility from all of us!

Choosing Civility as a New Year’s resolution

By Elaine WunderlichMember, Riderwood Sustainability Committee

The Dining Subcommittee of the Riderwood Sustainability Committee decided to focus on Communications this year. We wanted to see if we could give you more information and get your feedback without using more paper. For about six weeks now, there has been a Google group that provides information on what Signature Dining Weekly Specials are being offered at each restaurant so that you don’t need to visit each restaurant to find out their weekly specials. The specials are also listed in MyErickson in the Dining Menus section. This e-mail is a temporary pilot program while we ensure the MyErickson app is available on mobile devices and register all interested residents. In the next several months, we will transition to MyErickson completely and will discontinue the regular e-mails.

The e-mail list also serves as a feedback tool. If you are willing to share the information, we are interested to know if you make your food choices based on it being plant based, earth friendly, healthy, or other reasons for your meal choices. Our committee is mainly focused on sustainable dining, but anyone can add his or her name to this list.

If you would like to have your name added to the e-mail list, please send your name, e-mail address and apartment number to Elaine Wunderlich, who’s contact information is available in the resident directory. If you would like a MyErickson account, please contact the Community Resources coordinator in your building to setup a time to complete the registration process and receive basic training on the service.

We are encouraging you to try the specials (especially the new items) and then give feedback to the dining managers. Dining’s goal is for no guest to leave a restaurant unsatisfied, so the best way to resolve immediate service concerns would be to speak directly with a restaurant manager. They often can fix a problem for you and for future customers.

The Dining Subcommittee on Sustainability also plans to have a program to explain other sustainability initiatives that the dining staff is doing, such as Portico Seafood and introduction of meat substitutes (TVP and Tempe), and a movement toward buying more items from local farmers.

Sustainability Corner: Dining’s commitment to sustainability

By Anne Blackburn Chair, Riderwood Wildlife Habitat Management Project (WHMP)

As we snuggle down in our warmest clothes and turn up our thermostats, do you ever wonder how Riderwood’s critter friends survive in the winter?

According to our records so far at Riderwood, deer, foxes, squirrels, chipmunks, skunks, turtles, frogs, rats, mice, bats, and feral cats have been seen here at least once. In addition, many species of birds have been spotted since Riderwood opened in 2001. A number of the birds migrate to warmer climes, but the animals and birds who stay put have developed many ways to survive.

For example, the birds who don’t migrate feed on seeds, nuts, and berries all winter long and hope residents will again be permitted to put out approved birdseed. Birds find shelter in the nooks and crannies of our buildings and in our evergreens, shrubs, and bird houses. They too, may share body warmth to survive. British naturalist, John Lister-Kaye, who runs Aigas, a wildlife center in the Scottish Highlands, once found twenty wrens huddled together inside a

single nesting box during a particularly brutal cold spell.

Deer continue to feed during the winter months, sometimes on our shrubs, trees and emerging bulbs. When resting they choose protected areas in the woods and cluster together to conserve body warmth.

Squirrels build nests which can easily be seen high in the branches of tall trees now that the leaves have fallen. They’ve lined their nests with mosses and soft grasses making cozy retreats. Before winter began they will have stored nuts in many places which they largely remember. Nuts that are not re-discovered may sprout and help with forest regeneration.

Our charming chipmunks do not hibernate, they go into a deep sleep called torpor, waking only periodically to hunt for nuts and berries. Berries that were hard and unappealing in the fall are now edible thanks to successive freezes and thaws that have released their sugars.

Toads, turtles and dragonflies have burrowed deep in the mud at the bottom of our lakes before returning to the surface once the cold winter weather breaks. We truly live in a magical world.

Nature Alert: Baby it’s cold outside

(continued from Page 1)In his book Managing Transitions—

Making the Most of Change, William Bridges urges us to be sure we take a “piece of our past” with us. In Riderwood get-togethers for new residents, one participant was heard saying, “I don’t know what I’d do if I hadn’t brought my cats with me.”

Another said she brought pictures of her home with her and had them placed on her apartment wall on her first day here. And a third said “I brought my favorite plant from home. It makes me feel safe.”

Bridges also includes a few tips for weathering change: Don’t rush change, give yourself time to adjust; expect an emotional reaction and let yourself feel nostalgic; don’t go it alone, talk to others; don’t focus on the negative; eat properly and rest and do something fun; be good to yourself; know that the transition period will pass.

Dealing with change at Riderwood

By Chris HynsonMember, Earth Day Committee

With the new year, many of us have Resolutions and goals that we wish to accomplish. Put your health and fitness first this new year so you can start off by improving your wellness and standing taller with proper posture. Many of us do not realize the importance of posture and how it can affect our health and our bodies. We go through the business of our days and we are so focused on our tasks ahead that we sometimes neglect to stop and think while walking down a hall, “Am I standing tall? Are my shoulders back? Am I keeping my abdomen tight when I rise from a seated position?”

Our muscles have memory and we want to ensure that we train them properly to prevent injury, a fall, and further improve our gait and balance. Posture comes into play every day while we are performing our activities of daily living such as lifting grocery bags, walking the dog, sitting in the dining rooms, and pushing shopping carts or rollators around campus.

Please join Fitness Coordinator Chris Hynson on January 5 from 2-3 p.m. in the Village Square Classroom for a presentation titled Posture and You, which will address the importance of posture, strategies to correct posture while walking or standing from a seated position, using a rollator correctly, proper lifting techniques, walking techniques, and stretching techniques we can utilize daily that can help make improvements in our lives. Sign up at any of our three fitness centers if you wish to attend this workshop.

Stand Tall: Improve your posture in the new year

Page 4 | RiderwoodTV.com | Riderwood Reporter | RiderwoodLife.org | January 2018

By Rita ClarkeCoordinator, Riderwood Intermissions Program

Hello and Happy New Year to everyone! It’s been far too long since you’ve heard from us. It’s hard to believe that the Intermissions Program is nearing the end of our fourth successful year.

As we look back on our time here in the community, we have cherished the warm and special relationships we’ve formed with the residents and families of our program. So many have come and gone since we opened in January of 2013.

So, with that in mind, we’d like to thank all the families, past and present for your unwavering support of Intermissions. It is an honor to serve this beautiful population, and we sincerely look forward to working with your loved ones in 2018.

As we look forward into the New Year, we’d like to acknowledge the many staff and residents who volunteer to lend a hand, and share their gifts

with us. Many thanks to residents Kay and Noel for sharing your music and stories with us each month. To Amanda, Music Therapist extraordinaire, we thank you for sharing your music and games with us every Monday – you help us get into the “groove” each week! Thank you, Fiona for your fun and delicious cooking projects. Last, but not least, a big shout out to the Community Resources team for stepping in whenever they are needed.

As we embark on our fifth year, look for more updates and articles from Intermissions as we share our many enjoyable experiences with the community.

Intermissions is an ongoing program for our residents who are experiencing memory challenges. We meet Monday through Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.

For more information, please contact Rita Clarke via email at Rita.Clarke@erickson.com or by phone at 301-572-8313.

Intermission prepares for its fifth year of memory care

Across

1 - KUNDRAT3 - FELDMAN5 - ALAN BUTLER7 - BOGER10 - CHIP11 - MYERICKSON12 - CONNECT15 - GRACENOTES17 - FORNI19 - TMOS21 - PRINCE GEORGES26 - EMERALD ASH BORER31 - VISIONS32 - ELVT33 - TALENT35 - FINANCE39 - LIFE42 - TOWN CENTER43 - BCF45 - EMS46 - UMBC47 - NATIONALS

Down

2 - RENAISSANCE3 - FIRESIDE4 - DEE DEE6 - LSC7 - BOCCE8 - WHITE OAK9 - LIMESTONE13 - NEW JERSEY14 - PNC16 - MONTGOMERY18 - NAVY20 - INTERMISSIONS22 - RESIDENT LIFE23 - GRACEFIELD24 - CATHOLIC25 - DAVIS27 - ERICKSON28 - ACOUSTICATS29 - PUTTER30 - WINTERFEST34 - OAK CREST36 - EHWC37 - HUTSON38 - GLEN40 - FLU41 - BELL44 - FUND

Here are the answers to last month’s crossword puzzle

End of the Year Crossword Puzzle Answer Key

By Lynne CurryMember, Continuing Education Committee

Registration for the spring trimester of Prince Georges Community College SAGE classes will be Wednesday, January 31, 2018. The catalog will be available Monday, January 22.

Some new classes will be offered for the spring trimester. New classes include ones on the National Parks, the Italian Renaissance Painters, and the Estrogen Effect which “will explore some famous female artists and their contributions to the direction of art history.”

The computer labs in Village Square and Lakeside Commons will be open from 10:00 a.m. to noon and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on the day of registration, January 31, to assist residents who need help registering for classes. In order to get help, residents must have their username and password. Residents can refer to either the December issue of the “Riderwood Reporter” or the catalog to get instructions on how to obtain their username and password.

(Editor’s Note: The December edition of the Riderwood Reporter contained a typo saying that the registration help day would be September 21. The actual registration help day is the previously mentioned January 31. The staff of the Reporter apologizes for any confusion.)

PGCC registration coming January 31

(continued from Page 1) Alfred and Alberta Mehr have their own new

year’s resolutions, but also share a few as well. Alfred is planning on helping residents in need by walking more dogs, and Alberta is set on getting to the pool to swim more. Together, after 48 years of marriage, they plan to stop finishing each other’s sentences, and plan to try and speak louder to each other from different rooms. And, like many others, they hope to declutter, declutter, declutter.

Riderwood grounds worker Kenneth Griffiths, a talented artist whose work has been displayed through the exhibits sponsored by the Riderwood Art Council, comments, “January is when winter really kicks in for me. Because I am a visual person, I observe the changes. The light, the colors, all the contrast and the ‘claro oscuro.’ It is almost as if the landscape turns to black and white. Everything changes drastically moving to a dormant stage getting ready for the new season which is an explosion of new color and new life.”

January is also a time for renewal and new beginnings. It certainly was for Shirley Dearfield when she gave birth to her first child (a son) in Tokyo Adventist Hospital in Japan on New Year’s Eve. Shirley, a nurse, needed to use her skills as she began giving birth without a doctor present. She is glad the Japanese doctor who later arrived did not speak English since she recalls that her vocabulary was a “bit like a drunken sailor.” Her husband Aber went on to celebrate at a party at the Officer’s Club and recalls a joke when an announcement was made from the bandstand that his wife had just given birth to triplets.

Residents celebrate new year with annual New Year’s resolutions

Use the clues and try to identify the resident pictured above. Turn to page 7 to learn the answer and to find out just how well you know your fellow residents! Would you like to be featured in future editions of the newspaper? Contact a resident writer for more information. • I live in King’s Court, but was born in Belle Harbor, Long Island, located in the borough of Queens, NYC • I worked as a certified Oncology nurse at Providence Hospital, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, and for a Hematologist/Oncologist in Washington, DC. • Me and my husband Don are lectors at Sunday Mass. • Square Dancing and Line Dancing are two of my favorite activities

www.RiderwoodTV.com

There you’ll find the latest news from the Riderwood Reporter, this week’s TV Guide, contact information for the TV

studio staff, and much more!

Around the Campus - Winterfest 2017Even the residents and staff enjoy meeting the man in red! Director of Resident Life Michelle Glodeck (Left) and Josephine Fannon (Right) pose for a picture with Santa Claus (Center) in Maryland Hall at Montgomery Station on December 8 during the 2017 Winterfest celebration. (Photo by Margaret Hart)

January 2018 | RiderwoodTV.com | Riderwood Reporter | RiderwoodLife.org | Page 5

By Trudy DownsVice President, Riderwood Computer Club

Do you ever worry and feel unsafe when you are walking in a parking lot or down the street? If you are an iPhone user, there are new safety/security features on the new operating system that you should know about. Also, for Android users of a Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge smart phone there is a new security feature as well.

With iOS 11.0 Apple has included a safety feature that calls 911 in an emergency. On iPhones 6, 7, and 8 just push the power (on/off) switch 5 times and the phone will automatically dial 911. It will give you a count down from 3 before it actually dials the number. So, if you pressed it 5 times by mistake you are able to cancel the call. On the iPhone X just press the power switch and one of the volume controls to bring up the SOS option that calls 911. You can set it to call automatically or by just pressing the

option on the screen.At the same time that it dials 911 it sends

a text message with your GPS location and a notice that you contacted 911 to your emergency contact (make sure that the person you designate has a phone with text capability or this is a useless feature). On the iPhone your emergency contact information is included in your Health app with other pertinent medical information. If you own an iPhone make sure to fill out this information in the application as it is available to emergency personnel even if your phone is locked. Another good idea is to include Riderwood Security, (301) 572-8391, in your list of emergency contacts and even your Community Building Front Desk phone number.

The new Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge does not actually call 911. However, it can be activated in an emergency with three quick taps of your power button, and it will immediately send pictures from your front and rear camera to a set of emergency contacts. In addition to that, it

sends a message stating that you need help, with your exact location and an audio recording.

Always keep in mind when calling 911 to immediately give your location and phone number to the operator because your GPS may not be giving the exact location and you should always verify the location and your phone number when making a 911 call in case you get cut off.

To learn more about the features of your Apple devices come to one of the two weekly tutoring sessions offered by the Apple Users Group: Tuesday, 1pm-2pm, Town Center Classroom or Wednesday, 10:30 am-11:30 am, Montgomery Station lobby area near the fireplace. For Android questions come to the monthly Computer Roundtable on the 2nd Wednesday of the month, 2 pm – 2:30 pm at the Village Square Music Room. Take advantage of all of the features of your smart phone – be as smart as your grandchildren!

Staying safe with the help of your smart phone

By Ed ViladeMember, Earth Day Committee

R e m e m b e r 1970, the year of the first Earth Day? Boat-sized V8 sedans spewed leaded fumes as factories poured out smoke and sludge. Air pollution was regarded as the smell of prosperity. A massive oil spill off the coast at Santa Barbara, California was the final insult for Senator Gaylord Nelson of Nebraska. He initiated Earth Day, and America responded enthusiastically. Twenty million of us participated in massive rallies and other events in support of a healthy, sustainable environment.

Earth Day 1 was the catalyst for development of an environmental consciousness in this country. Forty-eight years later that spirit has led to major legislation, and innumerable public and private efforts to save our Earth. But new challenges have arisen. No one mentioned “climate change” in 1970. No one believed back then that once gained, our environmental gains could be eroded.

Planning for Riderwood’s observance of Earth Day 2018 is already in high gear. The festivities are set for Wednesday, April 25 from 1 to 4 p.m. in Maryland Hall and the Chesapeake Room at Montgomery Station. A packed agenda of events and exhibits will be featured.

Among the highlights will be the annual recycled jewelry sale. The beneficiary of the sale this year will be the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, dedicated to restoring and preserving this unique and valuable natural resource for future generations. Information about donating jewelry will be coming shortly.

The Riderwood Earth Day Committee and the many participating organizations invite all residents to celebrate all the accomplishments of the past decades, and rededicate ourselves to the effort remaining.

2018 Earth Day planning underway at RiderwoodBy Mike Miller

President, Riderwood Village Democratic Club

The recently elected Steering Committee of the Riderwood Village Democratic Club takes office this month with an ambitious vision for 2018. The new officers are: Mike Miller, President; Angela Miotto, Vice President; Patricia Lopes, Secretary; Gloria Sapiro, Treasurer; Sylvia Raphael, Program Chair; Trudy Downs, Membership Chair; Janet Rochlin, Montgomery County Observer; and Marie Warner, Prince George’s County Observer.

As a political club, the group’s primary goal is to inform members about candidates and issues and energize them to elect Democratic candidates at all levels of government. Program Chair Sylvia Raphael and her team will present programs every month this year, introducing Riderwood to both the Democratic candidates for office and the issues that the elections will decide.

Programs are the second Wednesday of each month at 2:00 p.m. in the Encore Theater. Meetings are open to everyone, regardless of political affiliation. Moreover, in 2018 the club looks to coordinate with other groups to bring candidates from all parties to Riderwood and provide residents the opportunity to meet candidates and compare their views.

The January 10 program will feature Kathleen Matthews, the Chair of the Maryland Democratic Party. She will be joined by the Chairs of the Democratic Central Committees of Prince George’s and Montgomery counties. The topic will be the future of the Democratic Party in Maryland and how the club can contribute to its success.

In addition to the club’s monthly meetings, the Steering Committee plans additional initiatives to keep its members informed and encourage political action supporting Democratic goals. These include a newsletter, a contact network, and working groups to assist Steering Committee members.

There are multiple opportunities to become more involved in the club’s activities. At this point, the positions of Publicity Chair, Research Chair, State Level Observer, and Member at Large are vacant and club officers need support to fulfill their missions. If you are interested in helping the Steering Committee implement its ambitious agenda, contact President Mike Miller at mikemiller47@verizon.net or 301-273-0914.

Democratic Club looks forward to 2018

Save the Date

Earth Day 2018

Wednesday, April 251 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Maryland Hall & Chesapeake Room

Welcome Home NewResidents

The following new residents have moved in to Riderwood between

November 17 & December 15James & Margaret AnnGiglio (CT)

Silver Spring, MD

Kathryn Murphy (FC) Bel Air, MD

Pat Roden (MG) Silver Spring, MD

Margaret Steenrod (FR) Laurel, MD

Valerie Freeland (BG) Silver Spring, MD

Ruth Nordenberg (VP) Camp Hill, PA

John & Joan Swanton (CL) Easton, MD

Mohan & Sulabha Gadre (VP)

Silver Spring, MD

Patricia Travers (VP) Dayton, MD

Roscoe & Marva Jones (KC)

Silver Spring, MD

Edward & Sylvia Simon (CC)

Jersey City, NJ

Josephine Moluski (WC) New Carrollton, MD

Miriam Ferrell (WC) University Park, MD

Rochelle Jaffe (HS) Washington, D.C.

Merlyn Soukup (MS) Laurel, MD

Robert & Dorothy Stevens (KC)

Bethany Beach, DE

David Grappo (WC) Albany, OR

William Henderson (CL) Denver, CO

Mabel Grantham (HS) Silver Spring, MD

Miriam Glickman (MS) Adelphi, MD

Paula Del Gallo (CL) Rockville, MD

Hilda Rubin (CL) Rockville, MD

Page 6 | RiderwoodTV.com | Riderwood Reporter | RiderwoodLife.org | January 2018

** Notice of Salon Fee Increase **

The salons are increasing their fees for the first time since the new management company started. These modest, $1.00 or $2.0 increases will take effective February 1, 2018. A full listing of services along with the new prices is available in each of the

salons.

Conversation with AdministrationBy Mickey Thaxton, Associate Executive Director

Please come and join us for the next Conversation with Administration at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 17, in

Montgomery Station’s Maryland Hall.

These monthly conversations provide an opportunity for residents to share concerns and receive feedback. They also help the Riderwood administration understand what we can do to improve customer service. Questions and answers may be altered for this column

without changing the accuracy of the information presented.

The following reflect the higlights of the meeting conducted in November:

Announcements:

• We would like to introduce our new Associate Executive Director, Dee Dee Gray-Weaver. Dee Dee comes to us from the hotel and hospitality industry. She worked for Choice Hotels for the past 15 years before joining us here at Riderwood. When you see Dee Dee please give her a warm welcome.

• In updates with our Dining Services department we would like to introduce Jesse Slaughter to our dining team as the new General Manager for the Windsor restaurant. Jesse comes to us with a wealth of experience from the restaurant and hotel industry. We look forward to working closely with Jesse.

• In updates with the Town Center renovations, we hope to open the new Bistro on January 2, 2018. Seasons temporary closing will coincide with the buffet opening that will be offered in the Celebrations room.

• In updates with our General Services we had to discontinue our window washing project but will reinstate it in the spring. We have prepared our snow removal equipment and it is ready for the coming winter season. We are also fully stocked with salt and contracts with our snow removal vendors have been signed. We would like to congratulate Simone Gomez for her promotion to Re-Occupancy Manager. We would also like to announce that Andrew Janosko has been promoted to Senior Facilities Manager. When you see Simone and Andrew, please congratulate them. We would also like to introduce Jason Spivey, who is our new Assistant Director of General Services. When you see Jason, please welcome him.

• In updates from our Sales Department, we continue to have a strong year. We finished October three ahead of our business plan and hope to finish the year with 225 settlements, which is our goal. We have 61 open apartments, ten of which are currently on hold. We are currently at 96.1% occupancy, which is consistent throughout the year. Thanks to all our dedicated residents who are the best ambassadors.

Questions and comments by Residents:

1. I would like to extend my appreciation for being offered the ability to choose half portions at Seasons.

Thank you for the feedback.

2. Can we get new hallway decorations?

We can consider this suggestion.

8. Can non-sugared drinks be available for purchase in the stores?

Yes. We can offer a variety of non-sugared drinks.

9. Can draft beer be offered in the Bistro?

We will consider this suggestion.

3. Can we get additional lighting in the parking lots?

We are looking at adding improved lighting levels in our exterior lighting which will improve visibility.

4. I would like to compliment the excellent response we received when the Fireside dining room and security came to our aid when my husband was involved in an accident.

Thank you for those kind words.

5. Can we make sure there are enough utensils and plates for the Windsor restaurant?

We will look at our inventory and processes to ensure that there is adequate equipment for the entire meal service.

6. Where can I find ingredients listed for the menu items?

We are working on listing and hope to have it available soon.

7. Will the ceiling be higher in the new wellness building to accommodate such games as pickle ball?

Yes. The ceiling will be higher.

10. If I would like to start a club on campus how can I do this?

Please contact any community resources coordinator and they will assist you.

11. Where will the cubbies be when Town Center is complete?

They will be right next to the mail boxes.

12. What is the procedure for notifying family members when a resident is transported to a hospital?

The first thing security does when notifying family members is they ask the resident if they would like us to notify any family members. If the resident would like that, we call the emergency contacts that they have provided us. If a contact person is not home, we leave a generic message to ensure that we are not releasing any protected health information.

13. Can we make sure that the fonts on communications, including the monthly activities calendar included with the Reporter and the Resident Directory, are large enough to be read?

Yes. We will also consider this suggestion.

By Almeda GirodResident Writer

Why is Sylvia Reed looking so happy? It’s because she is the chairman of the Arts Council of Riderwood and is very pleased with the revolving exhibits now gracing the community buildings of Riderwood. These are the result not only of her vision, but that of Paul Forbes and Fiona Divecha, who almost two years ago had the vision of an arts council that would provide a way to display the outstanding beauty of the art created by residents and staff. Joined by eight other residents with outstanding art backgrounds, the ACR was born.

Sylvia is often asked if she is an artist, and she responds with a clear “No. But I appreciate art.” Though she took several art appreciation courses while studying for degrees in philosophy and linguistics at universities in Missouri, Iowa, and Nebraska, she credits her love of art to her husband, Roland Reed, who has been an artist for much of his adult life. All one has to do is look at their apartment shelf at Hampton Square or glance at the walls of their apartment to see evidence of their combined talents. He creates the art and she displays it.

While being reared in St. Louis by parents who taught in Lutheran schools, Sylvia learned to also appreciate music. She studied piano and voice, playing in recitals and concerts until her marriage in Stuttgart, Germany, where Roland was serving in the Army. That union resulted in four children, followed by thirteen grandchildren.

Though raised and trained in the arts, Sylvia’s most meaningful work was as the administrator of the Fulbright Teacher Exchange Program, where for twelve years she administered the exchange of teachers from K through community college as they traded classrooms for the entire year with like-teachers from 36 different countries. Sylvia comments “This opened up a world of diplomacy and work with thousands of educators to understand each other and to ensure that there never be a war...as William Fulbright persuaded the Senate shortly after WWII”.

Sylvia, thank you for all that you have contributed throughout your life as well as what you continue to do in the Riderwood community.

An appreciation of the arts at Riderwood

January 2018 | RiderwoodTV.com | Riderwood Reporter | RiderwoodLife.org | Page 7

Jane Cyphers, one of the Coupon Cutters group leaders, thanks volunteers at a thank you reception for the group (Photo by Robyn Hutson)

By Judy FelsenfeldCoordinator, Volunteer Programs

The Riderwood Coupon Cutters cut coupons from newspapers, which are then transported by one of the group leaders to the American Legion located in Greenbelt, Maryland. The American Legion mails coupons to military members based overseas and their families.

One coupon cutters group meets on

Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m. in Lakeside Commons, while a second group meets on Fridays at 2:30 p.m. in Village Square. Residents also have the option of cutting coupons in their own apartments and donating them.

If you are interested in more information about the Coupon Cutters, you can contact one of the group leaders: Churalene Bice (301-572-0078), Jane Cyphers (301-890-4644), or Jeanette Johnson (202-669-9371).

Coupon Cutters helping military families

Housekeeping Supervisor Noel Vasquez (left) drops off the residents’ donations to Shepherds Table.

By Ed WachtmanRiderwood Lion’s Club

The Riderwood Lions Club would like to thank everyone involved with the toiletries for the homeless collection that just ended. We would like to offer a special thank you to Lion Ann Casale for heading-up the toiletries collection. 40 boxes of toiletries were collected and delivered to Shepherd’s

Table in Siler Spring. The people at Shepherd’s Table were happy

and excited with the donations and offered thanks to everyone involved this year. All residents at Riderwood who contributed to the drive should feel very good about your generous donations and again we thank everyone involved this year. For more information on the drive or on the Lion’s Club, please contact Lion Ed Wachtman at 301-960-9708.

Thank you for your toiletry donationsBy the Community Resources Teamat Riderwood

The Community Resources team greatly appreciates all the hard work our group leaders do to keep our community so vibrant. We are finalizing our newest addition of the Community Resources Handbook, the informational guide to all of the public groups at Riderwood. It is a great resource for residents, especially new ones, who are looking to join a group.

If you are a group leader, you received a packet of information last month that includes a group information form, the current information we have for your group that will appear in the next CR handbook, and your current room bookings. We ask that you please look over this information carefully and meet with a CR Coordinator to return your updated group form no later than Monday, January 8. We appreciate your timely assistance to ensure that we publish the best handbook possible.

We invite all residents to join us for the Opportunities Fair on February 27 from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Montgomery Station Maryland Hall and Chesapeake Room to meet and greet with our wide range of resident-run groups and clubs! The new 2018 CR Handbook will also be available for all residents on February 27! We hope you will participate in this great opportunity. Thank you again for all your hard work!

Community Resources needs your group!

By Bob MerikangasResident Writer

As in previous years, Christian residents of Riderwood can celebrate the annual Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, January 18 - 25. Information about the theme for 2018 is provided on the website of Graymoor Ecumenical & Interreligious Institute, but here are some selected points. The theme, “Your Right Hand, O Lord, Glorious in Power,” is taken from the book of Exodus 15:6. The resources for this year’s Week of Prayer for Christian Unity have been prepared by the churches of the Caribbean by an ecumenical team of women and men under the leadership of His Grace Kenneth Richards, Catholic Archbishop of Kingston, the Antilles Episcopal Conference, together with Mr. Gerard Granado, General Secretary of the Caribbean Conference of

Churches.We are told that today Caribbean Christians

of many different traditions see the hand of God active in the ending of enslavement. It is a uniting experience of the saving action of God, which brings freedom. They see that the right hand of God that brought the people out of slavery, gave continued hope and courage to the Israelites, as it continues to bring hope to the Christians of the Caribbean. In witnessing to this common hope, the churches are working together to minister to all peoples of the region, but particularly the most vulnerable and neglected. In the words of the hymn, “the right hand of God is planting in our land, planting seeds of freedom, hope and love.” Those of us in the United States can connect our praying with the situation and hopes of the peoples in the Caribbean

The meditations for each day give Americans

reflections on our issues, such as discrimination, human trafficking, murders and domestic abuse, domination and oppression, and the disunity of churches, which should be “a united covenanted people.”

This year copies of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity Daily Scripture & Prayer Guide will again be in the Pastoral Ministries office, but there will be no scheduled prayer gatherings in the chapel. Instead, residents will be free to use the Guide personally in their apartments or in the chapel, or to meet with neighbors in a location of their choosing to share the readings and to pray and dialogue together, on the days and at the times of their choosing. In January, Riderwood residents can also check the news and other sources to find about celebrations for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in this area and around the world.

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity begins January 18

The answer to Who Am I on Page 4 is

Jackie MichelsWould you like to be featured in future editions of

the newspaper?Contact a resident writer for more information.

Page 8 | RiderwoodTV.com | Riderwood Reporter | RiderwoodLife.org | January 2018

By Gloria GoldsteinProducer, Performing Arts Council

On Friday evening, January 19, in the Encore Theatre, The Seth Kibel Quartet will be performing many of our favorites from the “Great American Songbook”.

Seth Kibel, one of the Mid-Atlantic’s premier woodwind specialists, has worked with some of the best bands specializing in jazz, swing, and more. Wowing audiences with his skills on the saxophone, clarinet, and flute, Seth is not only well known in Baltimore and Washington, but throughout the world. He has been a featured performer with the Alexandria Kleztet, the Bay Jazz Project, the Music Pilgrim Trio, the Natty Beaux, and many more groups. Winner of 28 Washington Area Music Awards, including “Best World Music Instrumentalist” and “Best Jazz Instrumentalist.”

Seth has five released CD albums with his latest album released in 2015 by the Azalea City Recordings record label. One song from that album “New Waltz” was the grand prize winner

of the 2016 Mid –Atlantic song contest (MASC), sponsored by the Songwriters’s Association of Washington (SAW).

In 2002, he was commissioned to write, perform, and record an original score for Dreams in the Golden Country, an original theatrical production at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC.

Seth can also currently be seen with the Washington/Baltimore area’s most exciting swing and jump blues bands. He has performed at the Kennedy Center, the Carter Barron Amphitheatre, the Lowell Folk Festival in Lowell, Massachusetts, as well as on several European tours.

The Seth Kibel Quartet will have Seth on saxophone, clarinet, and flute, Sean Lane on piano, Bob Abbot on double bass, and Wes Crawford on drums.

Seth’s last Riderwood performance was sold out, so be sure not to miss this outstanding show. Purchase your $5.00 tickets Monday, January 15 and Tuesday January 16 in all dining rooms from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m.

PAC Welcomes back the Seth Kibel Quartet

By Lew RhodesMember, Riderwood Entertainment Presenters

A new year means it’s time for Riderwood’s Got Talent, the second annual resident and staff variety show.

Due to last year’s success, there will be two shows: Friday, February 2 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday February 3 at 2:00 p.m.

At both you can expect to see 17 acts – including a jazz quartet, a staff-resident dance team, music from Boogie to Bach (actually Schubert), and even a political speech from another era.

Ticket sales will be different as well. Because tickets sold out in one hour last time, leaving latecomers unhappy, sale times will be shortened. Tickets will be on sale from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. outside the dining rooms in each of the community buildings on Monday, January 29 and Tuesday, January 30.

Once again, proceeds from this Riderwood Entertainment Presenters event will benefit the Benevolent Care Fund.

Riderwood’s Got Talent tickets on sale this month

By Suzan WynneMember, Arts Council of Riderwood

What a year for the Arts Council of Riderwood! It was just a year ago that the ACR launched the first of three resident-staff exhibits in Lakeside Commons, Montgomery Station and Village Square. The ACR, a resident-staff collaboration, is using “lessons learned” from our first year to move into the second phase of exhibits. The ACR banners are up and the catalogs for each exhibit and other ACR-related literature are on tables in each exhibit area.

Betsy Brener, a resident and seasoned docent in museums, led two Art Talks at Village Square in December to highlight some of the art that was exhibited in 2017.

The next round of jurying is scheduled for 8:30-10:00 a.m. on Thursday January 25 in the Card Room at Village Square. Applications to participate are now at front desks. The new exhibit will open with a reception at Lakeside Commons on February 1.

“City Lights” by Betsy Brenner is one of the pieces currently on display in Lakeside Commons.

Arts Council prepares for year two of exhibits

Mary Popkin MS 11/16Naomi Petrash MG 11/16

Donald Ward BG 11/16

Ruth Hurtt OG 11/17

Samuel B. Formal MS 11/19

Maria Kavanagh ET 11/20

Ralph Kaufman OP 11/21

Phoebe Motley OG 11/21

Margot O’Herron KC 11/21

Marian R Carroll RC 11/21

William Raulin BG 11/23

Barbara Whall OG 11/24

Cletis Pride KC 11/24

Elinor Seidel OG 11/28

Lawrence Holt PV 11/30

Russell Hill CT 12/1

Nancy Mulder MG 12/1

Margaret Zimmerman PV 12/2

Dora Ginsburg RC 12/4

William Collier OP 12/6

Alicia Francis OG 12/6

Willa “Billie” Gidney FC 12/10

Leonard Mades KC 12/11

Jean Stringham MG 12/11

Jean Bird OP 12/14

David Furman ET 12/15

The following residents passed away between November 16

& December 15