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Saving the Seniors News
News Notes |
Awards and Proclamations
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Rambler Students News
For a sample video of a Saving the Seniors demonstration (courtesy of the Greenbelt, Maryland, Explorations
Unlimited/Ask the Expert 2010 program staff), click
here.
January 23, 2012
Certificate of Appreciation from Seniors against Stalking Support Group
Dr. Thomas and Ms. McCutchen were presented certificates of appreciation from Barbara J. Newby Givens, founder
and leader of the Bladensburg-based Seniors against Stalking Support Group, for outstanding service on behalf of
stalking victims.
January 14, 2012
Adult Ministry Saving the Seniors Educational Workshop, Upper Marlboro, Maryland
On Saturday, January 14, Dr. Thomas returned to the Union United Methodist Church to conduct a follow-up session to his
September 2011 workshop/luncheon with seniors from the Adult Ministry. He demonstrated simple and effective self-defense methods
that seniors might be able to use to defend themselves on the street, including with a cane, discussed a number of scams of
many kinds perpetrated on seniors, and offered numerous safety tips. The seniors in attendance were appreciative of the
demonstration and the information offered, and they indicated that they would like Dr. Thomas to return to share more
life-saving tips.
January 23, 2012
Certificate of Appreciation from Seniors against Stalking Support Group
Dr. Thomas and Ms. McCutchen were presented a certificate of appreciation from Barbara J. Newby Givens, founder and
leader of the Bladensburg-based Seniors against Stalking Support Group, for outstanding service on behalf of stalking victims.
January 9, 2012
Self-Defense for Seniors, Bladensburg, Maryland
In recognition of January 2012's National Stalking Awareness Month, the Bladensburg-based Seniors Against Stalking
and Domestic Violence Support Group invited Dr. Thomas to give a demonstration of practical self-defense in an interactive,
more in-depth seminar as a follow-on to October 2011's demonstration for National Domestic Violence Awareness month. To read
more about National Stalking Awareness Month, proclaimed by President Barack Obama on December 28, 2011, access
this link.
January 4, 2012
Dr. Thomas Interviewed on Prince George's Community Television, Largo, Maryland
Dr. Thomas was interviewed during a live 4:30 p.m. news segment on Prince George's Community Television on Wednesday,
January 4. He spoke about his upcoming interactive self-defense demonstration scheduled for Monday, January 9, at the
Bladensburg Community Center. The event, sponsored by the Bladensburg-based Seniors against Stalking and Domestic
Violence Support Group, which was founded and is led by Ms. Barbara Givens, the grandmother of a Rambler student,
marks January 2012's National Stalking Awareness Month. To read more about National Stalking Awareness Month, proclaimed
by President Barack Obama on December 28, 2011, access this link.
January 4, 2012
Self-Defense Demonstration for Prince George's County District III Coffee Circle, Largo, Maryland
On Wednesday, January 4, Dr. Thomas gave a basic self-defense demonstration and discussed scams at the monthly meeting of the
Prince George's County District III Coffee Circle held at Wegman's in the Woodmore Towne Centre in Largo, Maryland. This activity
is a "public forum for ALL citizens, business owners, organizations, and public officials" who share helpful information at meetings
that "focus on common concerns expressed by residents of District III." District III police officers and representatives attend these
meetings to provide information, answer questions, and interact directly with the district's residents. Dr. Thomas looks forward to
becoming further involved in District III community safety programs and to working with the district's officials to coordinate district
activities across the county, including senior safety education and bullying prevention.
October 20, 2011
Senior Self-Defense and Safety Demonstration, Hollywood, Maryland
Dr. Thomas was invited to do a self-defense and safety demonstration at the annual St. Mary's County Department of Aging Health Fair
("The Way to Wellness") held at the Volunteer Fire Department Hall in Hollywood. He showed an enthusiastic group of seniors practical
self-defense techniques and acted out scams that are being perpetrated on seniors on a regular basis. Other sessions included "Healthy
Plate, Healthy Planet," Tai-Chi for Arthritis, Diabetes Management, Reflexology Demonstration, Department of Aging Road Show,
Maintaining a Household on a Small Income, Coupons 101, and "My Plate, How Does it Rate?" The fair also included a variety of health
screenings, flu shots were provided for seniors, and there were a number of information booths geared toward helping seniors live healthy
and pleasant lives. Dr. Thomas looks forward to working with St. Mary's Department of Aging in future endeavors.
October 19, 2011
Senior Self-Defense Demonstration, Temple Hills, Maryland
The Tenant Association of the Manor at Victoria invited Dr. Thomas for a return visit to follow up on his 2010 demonstration. He
reviewed some of his practical self-defense techniques, including scams to look out for, and emphasized that physical and mental
attacks are perpetrated by both friends and family members. The audience of over 40 seniors were very appreciative of Dr. Thomas'
work and enthusiastically endorsed scheduling him to teach classes at the Manor so they can practice what they have seen and learn even more.
October 19, 2011
Senior Self-Defense Demonstration, Silver Spring, Maryland
Over 80 seniors gathered at the People's Community Baptist Church for Dr. Thomas' self-defense demonstration. They
were surprised at how simple movements could possibly save their lives should they be confronted by an attacker. Dr.
Thomas' practical and straightforward methods to address both physical and psychological assaults, for example, through
scams and even through abuse by friends and family members, and his commitment to enlightening seniors about their own
capabilities greatly impressed the seniors. They invited him back to work even more closely with them through hands-on, practice sessions.
October 10, 2011
Self-Defense for Seniors, Bladensburg, Maryland
In recognition of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Bladensburg-based Seniors Against Stalking and
Domestic Violence Support Group invited experts in bullying, which can lead to stalking and domestic violence, to
speak about these issues. Mr. Baron Howard, CEO of Entrepreneurs Success Business Network, gave a PowerPoint
presentation that highlighted what constitutes bullying and possible ways to respond, and invited candid discussion.
He emphasized that boys and girls and men and women who have been hurt in some manner (whether through what they have
been taught or have observed, or from their own negative or unhappy experiences) often seek to hurt other people to
achieve at least a short period of satisfaction from their ability to control another individual. After that presentation,
Dr. Thomas gave an demonstration about practical ways to defend oneself against bullying and dangerous predators who seek
to control those they feel are weak. He also spoke about and demonstrated common scams that constitute a different type of
bullying appproach. The support group enthusiasticallly invited Dr. Thomas to continue to work with them and support their
efforts to empower seniors and help them feel safe and in control of their own lives. For the press coverage of his appearance,
scroll down the page at the Prince George's edition of
Gazette.net online, October 27, 2011.
October 6, 2011
Self-Defense for Seniors, Upper Marlboro, Maryland
Seniors at Greater St. John Church asked Dr. Thomas to give a demonstration of simple self-defense methods, scams, and other
tips that they can use to feel safer on the street and in their homes. His interactive presentation using audience participants
and the information he provided was eye-opening for them. Dr. Thomas' goal is to help seniors become more aware of their surroundings
and more confident that they have a choice in maintaining their own safety.
September 28, 2011
Crime Prevention and Self-Defense Training Session for Seniors, Seat Pleasant, Maryland
Dr. Thomas was invited back to Pleasant Homes Apartments Community Center by Councilmember Aretha Stephenson of Ward II to
follow up on his July demonstration. Over 30 seniors, younger adults, and children attended the event, which began with an
update on safety issues from the Seat Pleasant police department. In addition to seeking further training on practical self-defense methods
from Dr. Thomas, the audience members indicated that they and others in the community are ready, willing, and able to do
what they can to assist the police in their efforts to curb crimes and violence in Seat Pleasant. One of those efforts strongly
supported is the reinstatement of a neighborhood watch program to help actively involve citizens themselves in making their community
a safer place. They appreciate Dr. Thomas offering to work alongside the police to help train the neighborhood watch members and
his desire to continue to be involved in efforts to improve the quality of life for Seat Pleasant residents.
September 23, 2011
Adult Ministry Saving the Seniors Education Workshop/Luncheon, Upper Marlboro, Maryland
The chair of the Adult Ministry of the historic Union United Methodist Church in Upper Marlboro asked Dr. Thomas to
teach a workshop to educate the church's seniors about safety and self-defense. About 30 seniors attended the workshop
and were surprised at the simplicity and effectiveness of the self-defense methods he showed them. The demonstration of
and discussion about a few of many scams that are perpetrated on seniors on a regular basis prompted several members
of the audience to share their own experiences and ask questions. Dr. Thomas appreciated being invited to speak with the
members of the Adult Ministry in their beautiful church, and he enjoyed the fellowship during the potluck luncheon event.
He indicated that he would be pleased to return to conduct a hands-on session that will allow them to practice and to
better remember his self-defense methods and safety tips.
September 16, 2011
Explorations Unlimited, Greenbelt, Maryland
Dr. Thomas was invited again to Explorations Unlimited in Greenbelt, which is a series of informational seminars for seniors.
His seminar was the first in a series of senior self-defense classes he will hold occasionally for the seniors at the Greenbelt
Community Center. For the press coverage of his appearance, see page three, column two, at
Greenbelt News Review, September 15, 2011.
July 28, 2011
Crime Prevention and Self Defense Training Session for Seniors, Seat Pleasant, Maryland
Councilmember Aretha Stephenson of Seat Pleasant hosted a Ward II Crime Prevention and Self Defense Training meeting
for seniors and their guests on July 28 at Pleasant Homes Apartments Community Center. Dr. Thomas and Sergeant Herbert
Pettiford of the Seat Pleasant Police Department were featured. The residents of the apartments who attended were treated
to a very entertaining session from Dr. Thomas that included the interactive demonstration of self-defense methods and the acting
out and discussion of scams that happen every day to individuals of all ages who are perceived as being vulnerable. Councilmember
Stephenson and Sergeant Pettiford spoke about the community's safety needs and highlighted the safety programs, both improved and new,
that are available to the citizens of Seat Pleasant. They emphasized that individuals in the community need to take full advantage
of what is offered and to learn to be both street and home smart as part of their safety efforts, underscoring what Dr. Thomas had
shown and discussed in his presentation. The audience members described past efforts to create a neighborhood watch and voiced their
desire to be proactive and jumpstart this important safety activity, which Councilmember Stephenson and Sergeant Pettiford indicated
they would wholeheartedly support. For his part, Dr. Thomas offered to help train the neighborhood watch members and reiterated that
individuals in a community must band together to improve their community and thereby their personal quality of life.
June 20, 2011
Self-Defense for Seniors Demonstration, Capitol Heights, Maryland
Dr. Thomas was asked by Maryland Triad/SALT to give a demonstration on practical self defense for seniors at the June 20 meeting
of the Greater 202 Coalition, held at St. Margaret's of Scotland Catholic Church in Capitol Heights, Maryland. There were over
125 attendees, including a number of key public officials, including Maryland's Lieutenant Governor and the Prince George's County
Executive, who made themselves available to hear citizens' concerns. One of the meeting's highlights was Dr. Thomas' performance
and interactive demonstration. He showed a few everyday self-defense methods and common scams to the group. He underscored that seniors,
who are often vulnerable to violent attacks and targeted scams, need to develop and employ "street smarts," both physically (for example,
by using a cane or walker to effectively deter an attacker) and mentally (for example, recognizing unsafe situations at a grocery store or
a gas station). He indicatd that he would be pleased to return to share more of his wealth of self-defense knowledge.
June 7, 2011
"Saving the Seniors": Senior Safety and Self-Defense Seminar, College Park, Maryland
Featured at the College Park Community Center's Health and Safety Seminar, Dr. Thomas demonstrated practical self-defense
methods and personal safety techniques, as well as scams that are being perpetrated on unsuspecting seniors. This community
center event also provided seniors with exercise and line dancing activities; poker, spades, and scrabble; anti-theft and fire home
safety tips; financial planning consulation; and vacation/travel planning; and brought in other professionals, including a
podiatrist and a chiropractor. The event was well attended, and Dr. Thomas' hands-on demontration with active audience
participation was lively, entertaining, and, most importantly, informative, offering useful and potentially life-saving tips for
seniors. He is looking forward to returning to the center for a more-in-depth, interactional "street smarts" seminar for the seniors.
May 25, 2011
17th Annual Senior Health & Fitness Day, Landover, Maryland
Dr. Thomas was again pleased to give a demonstration at this annual event to celebrate Older Americans Month and
National Senior Health & Fitness Day. His demonstrations drew the attention of large numbers of seniors--seated,
standing, and even peering over the rails from the balcony! His lively, interactive presentation of simple self-defense
techniques both entertained the audiences and relayed the message that seniors should feel encouraged by their learning
of "street smarts" techniques to enjoy their lives and not be afraid either at home or on the street as they go about their daily
activities.
January 21, 2011
Explorations Unlimited, Greenbelt, Maryland
Explorations Unlimited is a series of informational seminars for seniors held on Fridays at the Greenbelt Community Center. Dr. Thomas
was invited to share his knowledge about self defense with a group of about 20 seniors on January 21. They represented well the name of
the series, as they paid close attention to his demonstration of simple self-defense techniques and scams. They explored myriad aspects
of both physical and mental self defense with their probing questions during the discussion portion of the seminar. They asked Dr. Thomas
to return with some of his students to conduct interactive training classes because they want to be able to use what they have learned
to their best advantage should they encounter people who would wish them harm. An instructional video, entitled Tae Kwon Do Ramblers Self-
Defense Systems presents Saving the Seniors, was produced and will be shown on local Greenbelt television, as well as made available in
the Ask the Expert archive video section, the video entitled Saving the Seniors
. For the press coverage of his appearance, see page three, column four, at
Greenbelt News Review, January 13, 2011.
January 19, 2011
Hillcrest Baptist Church, Temple Hills, Maryland
Dr. Thomas gave a self-defense demonstration for about 20 seniors during their monthly meeting at the church. The audience members were
delighted to be able to participate in this highly interactive session where they learned several simple self-defense methods. They
indicated they would be pleased to have him come back and continue to educate them on ways to protect themselves, both physically and
mentally, from those who might seek to take advantage of them.
December 14, 2010
Maryland Triad/SALT Network Meeting, Annapolis, Maryland
Dr. Thomas was pleased to have been invited to speak to members of the Maryland Triad/SALT Network on December 14. He first demonstrated
several simple self-defense methods he teaches seniors. Afterward, he discussed with the several representatives from different counties in
Maryland his views on the importance of reaching out to seniors in many ways, with his focus on their physical/psychological and fiscal
safety (e.g., scams). Dr. Thomas offered his services as part of the activities of this important organization, a cooperative effort involving
proactive seniors and law enforcement representatives.
October 20, 2010
Senior Safety Demonstration, The Manor at Victoria, Temple Hills, Maryland
On Wednesday, October 20, Dr. Thomas gave a safety demonstration to a gathering organized by the Tenant Association of The Manor at Victoria.
About 30 residents attended and were treated to a lively interactive demonstration that underscored the more serious message that seniors
are vulnerable to those who would prey on them because they sense that seniors are weak and helpless. Dr. Thomas demonstrated a few practical
self-defense methods that he encourages seniors to learn and practice so that they might be able to escape from a predator and seek assistance.
He indicated he would be pleased to return to provide a more in-depth seminar, an offer that was heartily endorsed by the appreciative audience.
September 17, 2010
Annual Senior Fun & Fitness Day 2010: Senior Circus Celebration, Watkins Regional Park, Upper Marlboro, Maryland
On Friday, September 17, the Prince George's County Department of Family Services Administration on Aging hosted the annual senior picnic at
Watkins Regional Park in Upper Marlboro. Free to seniors over 60, hundreds who had pre-registered enjoyed the well-organized and seamlessly-run
four-hour picnic. Kudos to the organizers whose planning and facilitation of the event were remarkable. Snack bags and lunches with healthy
food choices, carnival fare (including popcorn and cotton candy), and beverages were provided. The lively music and other entertainment, with
clowns making balloon animals, carnival games, and face painting gave the event a circus atmosphere that offered something for everyone. The beautiful
location, pleasant end-of-summer weather, and company of so many interesting and active seniors were stirred into the mix to make it a thoroughly
enjoyable day. Triad/SALT, who had an information table at the picnic, asked Dr. Thomas to join the festivities and talk about his
longstanding Saving the Seniors program. An audience of about 100 seniors gathered for his eye-opening, interractional demonstration of simple
techniques they realistically could use to thwart an attacker. They also learned about scams that many of them had not realized are being
perpetrated daily on unsuspecting and trusting seniors. Dr. Thomas looks forward to participating in the next senior picnic and other such
events to enable him to talk with seniors about their safety and show them that they do not have to let themselves be victims.
June 15, 2010
Triad/SALT: Empowering Senior Citizens Against Elder Abuse, Prince George's County, Maryland
Following his April demonstration, Dr. Thomas was invited by the organizers of Triad (meaning "three," in this context three groups,
or senior citizens, police, and sheriffs) of Prince George's County/Seniors and Law Enforcement Together (SALT) to support their
countywide acknowledgement of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, which took place on June 15. At both Iverson Mall in Hillcrest Heights
and Prince George's Plaza in Hyattsville, Maryland, he demonstrated some simple methods seniors can use to defend themselves, using
wrist techniques and a cane ("cane do"), and to educate them about scams that are perpetrated daily on seniors. Audience members,
including police, were again eager to volunteer and try what was being demonstrated, as well as to ask questions about safety. Dr. Thomas
looks forward to continuing to work with Triad/SALT and with AARP through his longstanding Saving the Seniors program.
May 26, 2010
16th Annual Senior Health & Fitness Day, Landover, Maryland
On May 26, Dr. Thomas gave a demonstration at this annual event. Back for another year, his visit was highly anticipated.
Seniors gathered to see the simple self-defense techniques he shows as he engages the audience in the action. His entertaining presentation
belies a very serious approach to the need for seniors to learn that they do not have to be afraid to participate fully in
life as they get older, a time when they should be enjoying what they have worked so hard for during their lives.
April 21, 2010
Triad/SALT Senior Self-Defense Seminar, Suitland, Maryland
On April 21, Dr. Thomas shocked and amazed a large group of seniors and law enforcement personnel by demonstrating
simple methods seniors can use to defend themselves, using wrist techniques, a cane ("cane do"), and moves from a wheelchair.
He also talked about scams. Audience members, including police, were eager to participate, and they were able to see and
try firsthand a sampling of Dr. Thomas' skills and to ask questions about safety. Triad (meaning "three," in this context
three groups, or senior citizens, police, and sheriffs) of Prince George's County/Seniors and Law Enforcement Together (SALT)
is an organized effort by law enforcement agencies to work with senior citizens to keep them safe. It was formed in 1988 by the
International Association of Chiefs of Police, the National Sheriffs' Association, and AARP to work together to reduce crime,
victimization, and unwarranted fear of crime affecting the elderly. Triad provides opportunities for the exchange of information
between law enforcement and senior citizens by bringing representatives from various government agencies and senior citizens together to
discuss concerns that affect the safety of our elders. Dr. Thomas was pleased both to bring some of his vast knowledge about personal
safety to the effort and to learn from law enforcement safety experts. He looks forward to working with Triad/SALT and continuing his
work with AARP through his longstanding Saving the Seniors program.
October 13, 2009
Senior Self-Defense Seminar, Emerson House Apartments, Bladensburg, Maryland
Seniors at Emerson House eagerly awaited the return of Dr. Clifford Thomas' senior self-defense seminar. The group of
seniors who attended, including those who use canes and walkers, were active participants in the seminar and appreciated
learning about practical physical and mental self-defense methods that could potentially save their lives. They shared
stories about threatening situations they had experienced and sought advice from Dr. Thomas about their responses to these
situations. He encouraged them to practice so that their defensive reactions become automatic and discussed the potential for
holding regular classes for seniors in Bladensburg.
October 6, 2009
Save the Seniors Summit: Self Defense for Seniors Exhibition and Seminar, Harmony Hall Regional Center,
Fort Washington, Maryland
Dr. Clifford Thomas returned to Harmony Hall to conduct a seminar for seniors to follow up on his November 2008
demonstration of practical physical and mental self-defense methods that could potentially save their lives. The
appreciative gathering enjoyed participating in the seminar and had many questions for Dr. Thomas as they shared some of
their experiences in situations in which they felt threatened or were accosted. By bringing his methods to the seniors,
he hopes to give them confidence and empower them so that they will be able to better enjoy their lives.
May 27, 2009
15th Annual Senior Health and Fitness Day, Wayne K. Curry Sports &
Learning Center, Landover, Maryland
Dr. Clifford Thomas participated for a third year in the annual Senior Health and Fitness Fair, which was held
Wednesday, May 27. In addition to his two safety and self-defense demonstrations, this year's event offered
tai chi, chair exercise, several dance activities, classroom activities, and booths with information focused on
concerns of seniors. Dr. Thomas both entertained and educated the seniors about simple techniques they might be able
to use to defend themselves. Through his Saving the Seniors program, he emphasizes methods that can be used on the
street and at home, and he demonstrates how the development of both mental and physical street smarts are vital for
basic survival in a climate of crime and violence.
April 6, 2009
Senior Self-Defense Demonstration, Emery Senior Recreation Association, Washington, DC
On April 6, Dr. Thomas demonstrated and spoke about practical self-defense methods to over 30 members of the Emery
Senior Recreation Association. He showed them several simple, effective techniques they might use to physically and
mentally protect themselves, including how to use a cane for self defense and how to avoid being caught up in scams
regularly experienced by seniors. He pointed out that seniors may feel so vulnerable that they avoid engaging in
activities outside the home and find themselves unable to fully enjoy their lives, and he emphasized that his mission
is to help them feel more confident.
March 6, 2009
Self Defense for Seniors, Camp Springs Senior Center, Camp Springs, Maryland
Back by popular demand, Dr. Thomas gave a demonstration to over 50 seniors at Camp Springs Senior Center on March 6.
He showed them ways to both physically and mentally protect themselves by using simple and effective techniques. He
expressed his heartfelt desire to encourage seniors to enjoy their lives and not live in fear by providing them with
useful skills to defend themselves rather than become victims. He was enthusiastically invited back again to hold an
interactive seminar, and several of the seniors expressed an interest in signing up for his adult classes held on
Saturdays at the Bladensburg Community Center.
November 18, 2008
Save the Seniors Summit: Self Defense for Seniors Exhibition and Seminar, Harmony Hall Regional Center,
Fort Washington, Maryland
A group of energetic seniors gathered at Harmony Hall Regional Center's Save the Seniors Summit to enjoy and
learn from a demonstration of practical self-defense methods given by special guest Dr. Clifford Thomas. He
showed them ways to both physically and mentally protect themselves. Many were surprised that his methods are
so simple, are very easy for anyone to learn and apply, and can be so effective in the face of intimidating
circumstances. The Harmony Hallers invited Dr. Thomas to return for a hands-on seminar in which they can practice
what they saw and learn even more.
October 24, 2008
The Asbury Health and Wellness Fair, Gaithersburg, Maryland
Dr. Clifford Thomas gave a demonstration of practical self-defense methods to a group of seniors who were
amazed to find there are relatively simple ways to both physically and mentally protect themselves. They appreciated
the fact that he has such a keen interest in supporting seniors by showing them how to feel more confident and better
enjoy their lives by not allowing themselves to become victims. They invited Dr. Thomas to return for an interactive,
hands-on training seminar.
October 20, 2008
AARP Emery Heights Chapter #4194 General Meeting, Washington, DC
About 40 AARP members welcomed a practical self-defense demonstration from Dr. Clifford Thomas
at their regular meeting at Peoples Congregational Church in Washington, DC. The seniors were surprised
and encouraged to see, albeit briefly, that there are relatively simple ways they might defend themselves
both physically and mentally and not allow themselves to become victims. They were anxious to have Dr.
Thomas return with a more in-depth seminar to teach them more.
September 17, 2008
AARP Shepherd Chapter #2667 General Meeting, Washington, DC
Dr. Clifford Thomas spoke to about 80 AARP members gathered for a general meeting at the
Northminster Presbyterian Church in Washington, DC. The seniors learned a great deal from
Dr. Thomas' short demonstration of a few of the many practical self-defense methods they could use
to defend themselves both physically and mentally, and they had many questions for him after the
demonstration. It was clear that his full program, Saving the Seniors, would raise their awareness
further and promote the confidence that seniors do not have to allow themselves to become victims.
June 16, 2008
Practical Self-Defense Seminar, AARP Penn Branch Chapter #3473,
Washington, DC
Dr. Clifford Thomas held a three-hour seminar for members of the Penn Branch Chapter on Monday,
June 16, as a follow-up activity from a preliminary demonstration he made to this AARP chapter
in March 2008. Members took advantage of this excellent opportunity to engage in an interactive
and in-depth discussion and hands-on learning session about self-defense, which includes a combination of
mental and physical processes. Dr. Thomas stressed that individuals need to become more aware of their
surroundings and better assess the potentially dangerous situations in which they find themselves. He
underscored the fact that there are many levels of threats to safety, including physical assault, scams,
intimidation, and so forth, perpetrated on those who are viewed as likely unable to defend themselves.
May 21, 2008
14th Annual Senior Health and Fitness Day, Wayne K. Curry Sports &
Learning Center, Landover, Maryland
For a second year, Dr. Clifford Thomas participated in the annual Senior Health and Fitness Fair,
which was held Wednesday, May 21. This year's event was full of activities, important information,
and giveaways for the seniors. Dr. Thomas dazzled the crowds at his two exciting hands-on sessions.
Ever the showman, he was able to impart some of his vast knowledge of potentially life-saving techniques,
while engaging and entertaining the large number of seniors gathered. Through his Saving the Seniors program,
Dr. Thomas emphasizes simple methods of self defense that can be used on the street and at home, and how the
development of both mental and physical street smarts are vital for basic survival in the face of ever
increasing crime and violence.
May 13, 2008
Save the Seniors Summit, Bladensburg Community Center, Bladensburg, Maryland
Dr. Clifford Thomas was featured in the afternoon at the Save the Seniors Summit on Tuesday,
May 13, an event he has championed to bring attention to seniors and their concerns. In the morning, after an
energizing chair exercise routine by Reggie to get the blood pumping, John Moss, Bladensburg's chief of police,
spoke with the over 100 seniors who attended about practical crime prevention methods; Dr. Ruth King,
who teaches tai chi classes at Bladensburg Community Center, did a demonstration with some of her students;
Ted Myerson, AARP, spoke about the need for seniors to be involved in healthcare legislation and other
important issues so their voices will be heard; Kay Pierson discussed financial planning; and Renee Boykins,
fitness specialist at the community center, worked with seniors and encouraged them to stay fit by exercising.
Americare was also represented and health screenings were offered. After a fantastic lunch provided for the seniors that left everyone satisfied, the day was capped off by
Dr. Thomas' showstopping senior self-defense and crime prevention seminar. He used the center's own strongman,
Rodney Griffin, one of his adult students, as a "stunt man," as well as Susan McCutchen, another of his
students, to demonstrate self-defense methods and scams perpetrated on seniors. Most important, though, were
the seniors themselves who actively participated in Dr. Thomas' hands-on demonstration. This outstanding event
was well attended, well organized, and ran smoothly thanks to Bladensburg Community Center's (in alphabetical order)
Steve Ellis, program specialist; Lora Fitzgerald, front desk manager; Lori Smith, center director; and Barbara
Spencer-Pulliam, senior coordinator, as well as others behind the scenes who set up for the event and assisted
the seniors during the event. We look forward to another such rousing gathering to stress that seniors need to
become involved in available activities at both senior and community centers to enhance their lives and feel more
free to move about out in the community.
March 25, 2008
AARP Penn Branch Chapter #3473 General Meeting, Washington, DC
Dr. Clifford Thomas spoke to over 100 AARP members gathered for their monthly meeting at the
Pennsylvania Avenue Baptist Church in Washington, DC. The seniors were so impressed with
Dr. Thomas' short demonstration of the various practical self-defense methods they could use
to defend themselves and his description of his full program for seniors that he was invited
to give a two-hour seminar in June 2008 so they will have an opportunity to engage in an
interactive, hands-on learning session.
September 7, 2007
Self Defense for Seniors, Camp Springs Senior Center, Camp Springs, Maryland
Dr. Thomas gave a demonstration at Camp Springs Senior Center on September 7. He showed ways seniors could
use simple techniques to defend themselves should they find themselves in situations where someone is trying
to take advantage of them either by physically attacking them or mentally by the use of scams.
May 23, 2007
Senior Health and Fitness Fair, Wayne K. Curry Sports &
Learning Center, Landover, Maryland
Dr. Clifford Thomas wowed a large gathering of spectators at the Senior Health
and Fitness Fair on Wednesday, May 23, with an entertaining demonstration of what
he brings to seniors in his Saving the Seniors program. He showed them a sampling
of a few simple methods of self defense they can use on the street and in their
homes, emphasizing the importance of both physical and mental street smarts that
could prove to be vital for their basic survival in times when blatant acts of crime
and violence seem to be on the increase. The fascinated seniors eagerly participated
in this interactive demonstration and wanted to learn more, asking when and where they
could sign up for classes.
May 22, 2007
Saving the Seniors Safety Class, Coffield Community Center,
Silver Spring, Maryland
On May 22, 2007, Dr. Clifford Thomas held a preliminary safety class at the Coffield
Community Center, the first of a series of classes currently in the planning stages.
Coffield has a flourishing senior program, and the actively involved seniors who attended
this saftey session are motivated to learn all they can to potentially save their lives should
they be faced with life-threatening situations. They look forward to starting up classes in
the near future, as does Dr. Thomas.
March 29, 2007
Montgomery County Town Hall Meeting with Seniors,
Holiday Park Senior Center, Wheaton, Maryland
At this town hall meeting, Dr. Clifford Thomas had the opportunity to speak with and offer the
services of his Saving the Seniors program to a group of more than 200 seniors and government
officials, including County Executive Isiah Leggett. One of several convened by Mr. Leggett,
this community meeting gave seniors an opportunity to raise issues and concerns of special interest,
one of which is public safety.
March 9, 2007
Saving the Seniors Demonstration, Tower Senior Association, Inc., Takoma Park, Maryland
Dr. Clifford Thomas brought his safety program to an appreciative group of seniors on Friday,
March 9, at a "street smarts" demonstration for Tower Senior Association, Inc. While
the seniors were greatly entertained by Dr. Thomas' enthusiasm and engaging style, they
became aware through the course of the demonstration that the uncomplicated self-defense
moves they were being taught could potentially save their lives should they be faced with
life-threatening situations. Leaving the crowd clamoring for more, Dr. Thomas told them
that he looks forward to being invited back to conduct an ongoing program.
March 2, 2007
From The Senior Beacon Newspaper
Volunteers & Careers
"Instructing All Ages in Self Defense and More"
by Daniel Groner
For Dr. Clifford Thomas, martial arts teaches not just self defense, but a way of life.
Thomas, 52, has studied both judo and tae kwon do since an early age, garnering awards,
recognition and even black belt status. But his greatest honor, he says, stems from
working with others -- from schoolchildren to seniors -- to show them how martial arts
can improve their lives.
For the rest of the story, copy and paste the following web address:
http://es1.tecnavia.com/ee/seniorb/default.php (story on pp. 58 and 60).
For the home page of The Senior Beacon, copy and paste the following web address:
http://www.thebeaconnewspapers.com/about.php.
September 29, 2006
2006 Active Aging Week, Collington Life Care Community, Mitchellville, Maryland
Dr. Clifford Thomas gave an exciting senior safety demonstration at Collington Life Care Community on Friday,
September 29, as part of the featured activities for the community's 2006 Active Aging Week. His "Senior Safety
Demonstration: Be Smart on the Streets and in Your Home" was a sample of what he offers in his Saving the Seniors:
Street Smarts program, which is designed to teach practical self-defense methods and safety tips to seniors
that they can use to protect themselves both on the street and in their homes. Dr. Thomas demonstrated to the
community residents that while they often become targets of violence and crime, they should not mistake growing
older with helplessness.
April 20, 2006
From Port Towns Gazette
Excerpted from "Campaign Trail Leads to Bladensburg’s Home for Seniors"
by Jeffrey K. Lyles,
Staff Writer
Bladensburg's Emerson House senior residents had a demonstration from Dr. Clifford Thomas
as part of Bladensburg Mayor Walter James' monthly breakfast. The breakfast was also
attended by Montgomery County Executive Doug Duncan, Del. Victor Ramirez (D-Dist.47),
and Jolene Ivy, candidate for one of the four District-47 delegate seats. Dr. Thomas
spoke to the seniors about his ‘‘Saving the Seniors” street smarts program and
demonstrated how seniors could use items they regularly keep on them, such as a cane
or walker, to better protect themselves while out in the community. ‘‘Another way to
keep our neighborhood safe is for you to be able to care of yourselves,” Thomas said.
‘‘I want to bring my talents to you.” Mayor James commended Dr. Thomas
for his work with the seniors, citing the program as another example of the town’s
proactive approach to improving the community.
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