Seniors: Evaluate Manassas Park library services

The school year is almost over and both the teachers and students I've talked to are ready for a break. Teachers seem to be looking forward to having time to leisurely read a novel while students are looking over their summer reading lists in hopes of finding some interesting books to wile away their extra time.

Libraries take on importance to both of these groups, as well as senior citizens. Like everything else, books are becoming more expensive and those trips to the local libraries save money. Our local public libraries are funded by Prince William County and the cities of Manassas and Manassas Park.

There is some concern among Manassas Park residents that support for the libraries might be cut from the city budget. Mayor Frank Jones is asking city residents for thoughts and comments pertaining to their usage of the library system.

So, if you think the public libraries are an important part of your life get your comments to Julia Drake, executive administrative assistant to the city manager by June 12. She can be reached by e-mail at j.drake@manassas

parkva.gov or by direct mail at 1 Park Center Court, Manassas Park, VA 20111.

Home Safety Month

June is Home Safety Month and for vital information pertaining to safety in the home, the center will pre-sent a seminar, "Safe Steps," on Wednesday at 11 a.m.

In the United States falls are the leading cause of injuries to seniors. While falls can happen any time or place, two-thirds of falls by older adults occur in the home during everyday activities.

The seminar will offer tips on making the home safe from falls and discuss the importance of fall preven-tion. Participants will receive a home assessment safety checklist.

Travel with Carl and Pat

Carl and Pat Hemmer will be offering their third lecture in their travel series on Friday at 11 a.m. They will regale us with accounts of their trip to Pompeii and ancient Italy. Complete with beautiful pictures, Carl and Pat will make us feel as if we are traveling right along with them.

All are invited to remain for a great Italian-style lunch following the presentation. Remember to sign up for lunch by 10:30 a.m.

Men's Health Week

Remember, June 8-14 is Men's Health Week. There will be packets of information available at the center for all men. Included in the information are checkup and screening guidelines. Stop by the center and pickup this valuable information.

Musical salute

It's not too early to make a reservation for the "Special Musical Salute to Fathers" on June 19 at 12:30 p.m. The program will feature Roy Poole who sings with the same style and finesse as favorites Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole and others. The cost for this program is $3 payable when making a reservation.

Sign up for lunch prior to the program and enjoy a wonderful barbecue meal lovingly prepared by our center chief, Linda. Transportation must be coordinated directly with the office for this event.

Painting classes

Cliff Nolan is back, by popular demand, with his painting classes on Wednesdays at 11 a.m.

Tai Chi

Also on Wednesdays, John Rodriguez is offering a Ti Chi class at 2 p.m. Come join John and learn the art of relaxation.

Movie day

Monday is movie day. Join friends at 11 a.m. to enjoy a recent movie release. Movies are shown in the quiet, comfortable meeting room.

Testing clinics

Blood pressure and glucose testing clinics are held every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. during the summer months.

Happy Hoofers

The Happy Hoofers are working on their June show. I can't tell you how much I miss being a part of that program. Pneumonia and a trip to Seattle kept me away for the entire month of May and I'm looking forward to getting the "all clear" from my doctor this week.

The Hoofers performed at the Manassas Rehabilitation Center, Birmingham Green, The Fairmont Senior Residence and the senior center picnic in May.

I'm also sad that I missed the Step Sisters recent show at The Oaks at Wellington. I'm sure it was wonderful.

The Manassas Senior Center is at 9320 Mosby St., Manassas. Call 703-792-6405.