Greetings – I hope this email finds you and everyone in your circle happy, healthy, and excited to tackle the next steps in our fight to protect cannabis consumers in Maryland!
But first – let’s celebrate what we have achieved!
Everyone is invited to participate in the state-wide “Question 4 Seed Score” on Saturday, July 1, 2023! Over a dozen different locations! Get more details and sign up to participate HERE(psst, we have a zoom call about it tonight 🙂
The “Question 4 Seed Score” will promote awareness of our most important legislative achievement after the state-wide ballot referendum passed last year – the right to grow our own cannabis!
No organization has done more to secure our legal home cultivation rights than Maryland Marijuana Justice(@MDMJ2018) – they continue that tradition by providing free cannabis seeds to any Maryland adult who wants to get started with home grow!
This is the most coveted right in the cannabis community and we would not have home grow without all of your support – THANK YOU!
Luke Jones, Maryland NORML
PS: Look for our next email, Subject: “2024 Legislative Priorities”
Maryland Department of Aging Secretary Carmel Roques joined other Maryland officials and non-profits this week to kick off PROTECT Week 2023 – a statewide awareness and education campaign targeting abuse and financial exploitation of older adults.
AARP Maryland hosted a press conference on Monday, June 12, with a coalition of federal and local government, business owners, and consumer groups, followed by a live tele-town hall conversation with advice from leading experts on fraud and abuse.
“The Maryland Department of Aging is committed to the safety and well-being of older Marylanders and supports efforts across multiple sectors and state agencies to achieve that end,” Secretary Roques said. “Our goal is to provide protections for older people, including teaching them how to protect themselves.”
Secretary Roques presented a proclamation during the press conference on behalf of Governor Wes Moore, proclaiming June 15, 2023 as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day to promote a better understanding of abuse and neglect of older adults and encourage taking action to raise awareness, prevent, and address this abuse.
Secretary Roques described how the department works with its 19 local Area Agencies on Aging in every jurisdiction across the state to help combat abuse and keep older Marylanders safe through several Department of Aging programs including:
The State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, which protects the rights and promotes the well-being of the more than 50,000 residents currently living in assisted livings and nursing homes in Maryland;
The Public Guardianship Program, which serves older adults who have been deemed by a court of law to lack the capacity to make or communicate responsible decisions concerning their daily living needs;
The Senior Legal Assistance Program, which provides access to legal advice, counseling, and representation to older Marylanders, local Ombudsmen, and health insurance counselors; and
The Senior Medicare Patrol, which teaches Medicare and Medicaid clients how to recognize and report health care fraud, waste, abuse, or error.
Many free PROTECT Week events are taking place this month across Maryland, including shred-it days, town halls, local fairs, community outreach programs, and daily streaming webinars with interviews and tips from leading experts. Click hereto see a list of events; Click here to learn more about financial exploitation of older adults and what you can do to help stop it.
Left to Right Back Row: Erek Barron, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland; Jennifer Donelan, spokesperson for Attorney General Anthony Brown; Secretary Rafel Lopez, Maryland Department of Human Services; Commissioner of Financial Regulation Tony Salazar, Maryland Department of Labor; Shawn Perry, host of The Senior Zone; Front Row: Rianna Matthews-Brown, Chief of Staff, Maryland Office of the Comptroller; Secretary Carmel Roques, Maryland Department of Aging; and Karen Morgan, AARP Maryland Executive Council
ANNAPOLIS, MD — AARP Maryland, the Maryland Attorney General, Comptroller of Maryland, Maryland Department of Aging, Maryland Department of Human Services, Office of Financial Regulation in the Maryland Department of Labor, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office — along with a coalition of federal, local government, business and consumer groups — are kicking off PROTECT Week, a statewide awareness and education campaign targeting elder abuse and financial exploitation.
PROTECT Week is an annual initiative anchored around World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, June 15.(For a complete schedule of virtual and in-person events, including free document shreds, visit www.aarp.org/md).
“Elder abuse and financial exploitation are serious problems in our state, we must do everything we can to prevent them,” said AARP Maryland State Director Hank Greenberg. “PROTECT Week is a great opportunity for Marylanders to learn more about these issues and what they can do to help keep their loved ones safe.”
“Every year, thousands of older adults fall victim to financial exploitation, and the consequences can be severe,” Comptroller Brooke Lierman said. “Our office is proud to join the many partners involved in PROTECT Week 2023 to ensure that Marylanders are provided the information needed to help identify and avoid scams, so they are fully aware of the risks – and how to avoid them.”
According to the National Center on Elder Abuse, one in 10 Americans aged sixty and over have experienced some form of elder abuse— and financial exploitation is the most common type. Elder abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse, as well as neglect.
“Our older Marylanders have dedicated their lives to raising families, building our communities, and growing our economy. They deserve to live with dignity and without fear of exploitation and abuse,” said Attorney General Anthony Brown. “These heartbreaking abuses can occur at the hands of trusted friends and family, as well as complete strangers. The best protection is information, which is why PROTECT Week is so important. My office provides resources to help seniors and vulnerable adults avoid scams and fraud, and to pursue asset recovery on behalf of those who have been exploited.”
“Our team is committed to promoting the safety, stability and independence of seniors in our communities,” said Maryland Department of Human Services Secretary Rafael López. “We need your help. Each financial exploitation case we open starts with a report from someone who is concerned. We do not know there’s a problem unless you say something. So, if you suspect someone is being abused, neglected or exploited in any way, take action. Please call 1-800-91Prevent (1-800-917-7383).”
“The Maryland Department of Aging is committed to the safety and well-being of older Marylanders and supports efforts across multiple sectors and state agencies to achieve that end. Our goal is to provide protections for older people, including teaching them how to protect themselves,” said Maryland Department of Aging Secretary Carmel Roques, who presented a proclamation from Governor Moore in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.
“As Maryland’s consumer financial protection agency, my office is proud to be a part of Protect Week to bring attention to the dangers of senior financial exploitation,” said Commissioner of Financial Regulation Tony Salazar. “Fraud can happen to anyone – we encourage older adults and their loved ones to learn how to protect themselves and to not be afraid to report incidents of financial abuse.”
“People do not ‘lose’ money to scammers,” reminded AARP Executive Council Member Karen Morgan. “Their money is stolen, by criminals who use emotional manipulation as a weapon.”
For a list of PROTECT Week coalition members and to register for events, visit www.aarp.org/md.
Do you have to use public transport regularly and often fail to catch the desired service on time? If yes, why not take the help of some of the best transit apps for iPhone and iPad to keep track of the estimated arrival time of the nearby buses and trains so that you always arrive on time? These apps notify you about delays and also provide alternate routes. Depending on your needs, you can customize them to show info only about your preferred stops or routes. So you will never get stuck in traffic.
1. New York Subway MTA Map
It’s the official MTA map of the New York subway and comes with an enormously helpful route planner. The app displays the latest public transport information and also keeps you notified with the timely alerts. Plus, it shows a countdown clock for every subway station.PlayNextUnmuteCurrent Time 0:06/Duration 4:20CaptionsFullscreenBackward Skip 10sPlay VideoForward Skip 10s
You can also favorite your routes for instant access and get the live Twitter updates from the official NYCT Subway account. Even better, the app also offers convenient travel tips and information to the folks who are traveling to New York for the first time. Therefore, your journey will remain a pleasant experience.
Compatibility: iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch Price: Free Download
2. Transit
The app that has comfortably topped our list is “Transit.” Ranked number 4 in the navigation category and having got 4.7 stars out of 23.6K ratings, it’s very popular.
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The app is available in more than 125 cities across North America and Europe. It shows the real-time arrivals of nearby trains and buses so that you can easily catch them. Besides, you can check your transit vehicle approaching on a live map.
Find out the availability of cars and book them with car2go. And oh, there is also an option to locate the bike share options.
You can use the accurate data to plan your trip perfectly. Plus, it sends you notifications for service disruptions to keep you in the loop.
If you wish to have an app that can provide the bus and train arrival time predictions for the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) stop, this one should be your automatic choice. You can view their locations and their route patterns on the map. If you have to use a stop regularly, save it in the app so that you will view its info instantly.
CTA route service alerts ensure you don’t miss to board the bus or train in time. It’s also available for Apple Watch to let you keep a close watch on the transit info right from your wrist.
Compatibility: iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch Price: Free Download
4. Moovit
If you want to have a simple yet pretty efficient public transit tracker, “Moovit” is the way to go. The app works in more than 2700 cities in the world.
It provides precise public transport information about train and bus time so that you remain in tune with your time. Just in case you get late or want to reach your destination a bit conveniently, you can also order a car from Uber.
With the live directions, the app works as your personal guide and also offer timely notifications to keep you alerted. To explore the local neighborhood with more fun, you can book a personal or shared bike as well.
Compatibility: iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch Price: Free Download
5. TransLoc Rider
For tracking transit, you can’t go wrong with TransLoc Rider. You can keep an eye on the arrival or departure of your favorite buses and trains. Use the quick search feature to find out specific routes and stops. After that, get to know the best way to travel.
You will also set custom alerts to keep yourself at pace with everything that matters to you. What’s more, TransLoc Rider can also help you plan your trip smartly by letting you use stop, route and schedule information.
Compatibility: iPhone only Price: Free Download
6. Google Maps
“Google Maps” is by far the most popular navigation app across the platforms. With this app, you have instant access to the map of over 220 countries and territories. Check the real-time GPS navigation, traffic, and transit info to commute with ease.
You can explore the local neighborhood and find out the best place to eat, drink and visit. Thanks to the automatic rerouting as per the live traffic and road closures, it can save plenty of your time.
Find out the coolest places recommended by local experts, Google, and publishers. Make the most of the street view to have a better insight into a city or a famous place. Even better, you can download the maps to navigate freely offline.
Compatibility: iPhone and iPad Price: Free Download
7. Citymapper
Citymapper is an excellent transit app with all the bells and whistles required to navigate conveniently. With the accurate information about the arrival and departures of buses and trains, it ensures you remain in sync and never get late.
Courtesy the disruption alerts, Citymapper helps you plan better and reach your destination at the right time. Uber integration makes it a lot easier for you to book a vehicle.
You will also view the bike routing and live bike share info. Furthermore, Citymapper supports multiple languages like English, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Japanese, and more.
Compatibility: iPhone and Apple Watch Price: Free Download
8. Total Transit
“Total Transit” comes with a proficient journey planning feature. You can use its seven-day timetables to plan your travel per your routine. View the nearby route and find out the quickest ways to reach your desired place.
And in case of traffic delays, the app displays the alternative routes. Thus, you won’t get stuck in the traffic. Better still, you can personalize a stop’s arrivals so that you will quickly access the preferred information.
What I have found appreciable in ETA is the impressive user-interface. Besides, it provides more personalization options. So, if you want to have an app that you can fine-tune as per your specific taste, it should be a nice option.
With just a glance, you will access all the essential info like travel times, transit and driving directions. You can use the Today widget to keep track of the transit info right from the Lock screen of your smartphone. Additionally, the app also offers calendar sync and a cool theme library (through in-app purchase) to spice things up.
Compatibility: iPhone and Apple Watch Price: $2.99 Download
There you go! So, these are our top transit apps that work pretty well on iOS devices.
What’s your favorite?
Hopefully, your traveling will become a pleasing experience now. With the accurate data, timely notifications and helpful tips, these apps make sure you stay ahead. Get the best out of them to not just commute smartly but also save plenty of time!
Jignesh Padhiyar is the co-founder of iGeeksBlog.com, who has a keen eye for news, rumors, and all the unusual stuff around Apple products. During his tight schedule, Jignesh finds some moments of respite to share side-splitting content on social media
Being more disciplined in life is a valuable trait that can help you achieve your goals and lead a more productive and fulfilling life. Here are some strategies to help you become more disciplined:
Set Clear Goals: Start by defining clear and specific goals that you want to achieve. Having a clear vision of what you want to accomplish will help you stay focused and motivated.
Prioritize Tasks: Create a to-do list or schedule that outlines your tasks and responsibilities. Prioritize your tasks based on importance and urgency. This will help you stay organized and ensure that you allocate your time and energy effectively.
Break Tasks into Manageable Steps: Large tasks can be overwhelming, leading to procrastination. Break them down into smaller, more manageable steps. Focus on completing one step at a time, and celebrate your progress along the way.
Create a Routine: Establish a daily routine that incorporates your goals and tasks. Having a structured routine can provide a sense of stability and make it easier to stay disciplined. Schedule dedicated time for work, exercise, self-care, and leisure activities.
Eliminate Distractions: Identify and eliminate or minimize distractions that can derail your focus and discipline. This may include turning off notifications on your phone, creating a designated workspace, or setting specific time blocks for focused work.
Practice Time Management: Learn to manage your time effectively by setting deadlines for tasks, using timers or productivity apps, and avoiding multitasking. Allocate specific time slots for different activities, and stick to your schedule as much as possible.
Develop Self-Control: Self-control is essential for discipline. Practice delaying gratification and resisting impulsive behaviors. This can be done by setting limits on activities such as excessive social media use or unhealthy snacking.
Stay Accountable: Find ways to hold yourself accountable for your actions and progress. This can be through self-reflection, tracking your performance, or sharing your goals with a trusted friend or mentor who can provide support and hold you accountable.
Practice Consistency: Discipline is built through consistent action. Make a commitment to yourself to consistently work towards your goals, even when motivation is low. Develop a mindset of perseverance and embrace the process, understanding that discipline takes time to cultivate.
Take Care of Yourself: Finally, remember to take care of yourself physically and mentally. Get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and engage in activities that promote relaxation and self-care. When you’re in a good state of well-being, it becomes easier to stay disciplined.
Remember that building discipline is a gradual process that requires practice
Recharging on the weekend after a hard week is crucial for maintaining your well-being and productivity. Here are some of the best ways to recharge and rejuvenate:
Get ample sleep: Catching up on sleep is essential for recharging. Aim for at least 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to allow your body and mind to rest and recover.
Disconnect from work: Make a conscious effort to disconnect from work-related activities. Turn off notifications, avoid checking work emails, and create clear boundaries between work and personal time.
Engage in physical activity: Exercise is a fantastic way to boost your energy levels and reduce stress. Engage in activities you enjoy, such as going for a run, practicing yoga, or playing a sport. Physical activity releases endorphins, improves mood, and promotes relaxation.
Spend time in nature: Spending time outdoors has numerous benefits for your well-being. Go for a hike, visit a park, or simply take a leisurely walk in nature. Fresh air, sunlight, and green surroundings can have a calming and rejuvenating effect.
Pursue hobbies and interests: Dedicate time to activities you genuinely enjoy but may not have time for during the week. It could be reading a book, painting, playing a musical instrument, cooking, gardening, or any other hobby that brings you joy.
Socialize with loved ones: Spending quality time with family and friends can be incredibly rejuvenating. Plan gatherings, have meaningful conversations, engage in fun activities together, or simply relax and enjoy each other’s company.
Practice mindfulness or meditation: Mindfulness and meditation techniques can help you relax, reduce stress, and cultivate a sense of calm. Set aside some time for meditation or try mindfulness exercises to bring your attention to the present moment and promote relaxation.
Pamper yourself: Treat yourself to self-care activities. Take a long bath, indulge in a spa day at home, give yourself a massage, or do anything that makes you feel relaxed and pampered.
Explore new experiences: Use your weekends to explore new places, try new activities, or visit attractions you’ve always wanted to see. Engaging in novel experiences can invigorate your mind and provide a fresh perspective.
Do nothing: Sometimes, the best way to recharge is by doing nothing at all. Allow yourself to have downtime where you can simply relax, unwind, and let your mind wander without any specific agenda.
Remember, everyone’s idea of recharging is unique. Find activities that resonate with you and make you feel rejuvenated. By prioritizing self-care and incorporating these practices into your weekends, you can set yourself up for a more balanced and energized week ahead.
Oh Joy! Another school year comes to an end… but what now?? Preparing for summer as parents involves considering various aspects, such as keeping children engaged, ensuring their safety, and making the most of the break. Here are some suggestions to help you prepare for summer:
Plan activities: Research and plan age-appropriate activities and outings for your children. Look for local summer camps, community programs, sports clubs, art classes, or workshops that align with their interests. Consider both structured activities and unstructured playtime to foster their creativity and social skills.
Create a schedule: Establishing a daily or weekly schedule can provide structure and routine during the summer months. Include a mix of activities, chores, free time, and family outings. Having a schedule helps manage expectations and provides a sense of stability.
Ensure safety: Review and address any potential safety concerns. Make sure your home is child-proofed, especially if your children will be spending more time indoors. If they’ll be playing outside, establish rules for outdoor safety, such as wearing helmets while biking or applying sunscreen when spending time in the sun.
Encourage reading: Summer is an excellent time to promote reading habits in children. Visit the local library together and help them choose books that interest them. Consider setting aside dedicated reading time during the day and discuss the books they read to enhance comprehension and engagement.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Help your children maintain a balanced lifestyle during the summer break. Encourage regular exercise and physical activity, such as biking, swimming, or playing sports. Provide nutritious meals and snacks, and involve your children in meal planning and preparation to teach them healthy habits.
Explore nature: Take advantage of the warm weather by spending time outdoors. Plan family hikes, picnics in the park, or visits to nature reserves. Nature activities can be both educational and enjoyable, fostering a love for the environment and providing opportunities for bonding.
Foster creativity: Encourage your children’s creativity by providing art supplies, craft materials, or musical instruments. Set up a designated area where they can freely express themselves through art, music, or other creative pursuits.
Family time: Summer break offers a chance for quality family time. Plan regular family outings, game nights, or movie nights at home. Engage in activities that allow you to bond, relax, and create lasting memories.
Limit screen time: Set clear guidelines for screen time usage during the summer break. Encourage a healthy balance by setting limits on electronic devices and promoting alternative activities that engage their minds and bodies.
Communicate with other parents: Connect with other parents to arrange playdates, share resources, or organize joint activities. Networking with other families can provide additional support and opportunities for your children to socialize.
Remember that each child and family have unique needs and preferences. Customize your summer plans to suit your family’s dynamics while ensuring a mix of fun, learning, and relaxation.
ANNAPOLIS, MD — Governor Moore released the following statement regarding Maryland’s Red Alert Air Quality Condition resulting from the Canadian Wildfires:
“We are working in close coordination with the Maryland Department of the Environment and Maryland Department of Health to monitor the impact that wildfires burning in Quebec, Canada are having on air quality both in Maryland and across the region.
The Maryland Department of the Environment is advising Marylanders to expect unhealthy air conditions today through at least Thursday as smoke and fine particles produced from the wildfires continue to spread over the region. Air quality is currently at unhealthy levels for everyone. Marylanders should consider limiting time spent outdoors and avoid prolonged or heavy exertion until air quality improves. Anyone sensitive to air pollution, including young children, older adults, people with respiratory problems such as asthma, or people with heart conditions should avoid outdoor exertion altogether. People who must be outside, such as outdoor workers, should be alert for symptoms such as difficulty breathing. Air quality information is always available at mde.maryland.gov.
The Maryland Department of Health is advising Marylanders to follow the Air Quality Action Guide, which includes information on preventing adverse effects of polluted air. For a red alert, everyone should limit strenuous outdoor activity when the air is unhealthy to breathe.
If you have lung or heart disease, stay indoors
Air conditioning can improve the air quality indoors
Masks (like N95s, KN95s) will reduce the particles that you breathe, but they can also make it harder to breathe
Be alert for breathing problems in children, especially children with lung problems like asthma
Check on neighbors and relatives with chronic health problems
The health and safety of Marylanders is our top priority. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information is available.”
Maryland Family Insurance 