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June 15, 2010
TRIAD/S.A.L.T.: 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 (S.A.L.T.) 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/S.A.L.T. 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/S.A.L.T. 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 (S.A.L.T.)
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/S.A.L.T. 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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