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Dr. Clifford L. Thomas

 

Saving the Seniors News

News Notes | Awards and Proclamations
Newspapers and Magazines | Tournament News | 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.

Dr. Thomas Introducing Himself and Assistant S. McCutchen Canes Can Be Both Useful and Attractive Keep the Attacker Away from You Hit the Attacker on Top of the Head Fingernails Can Cut the Attacker's Throat Dr. Thomas Answering Audience Questions

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.

Dr. Thomas Triad-SALT Senior Picnic 2010 Dr. Thomas and S. McCutchen Triad-SALT Senior Picnic 2010

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.

Dr. Thomas demonstrating a wrist technique Dr. Thomas demonstrating a choke technique Dr. Thomas and Ms. McCutchen demonstrating a self-defense technique

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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