Public Invited to Offer Suggestions on the TANF State Plan

The public is invited to comment on the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) State Plan for the Work First program. The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Division of Social Services submits this plan to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families (ACF) every three years. The plan outlines how North Carolina intends to administer the Work First program.

From December 22, 2011 – February 5, 2012, the written plan is available on the web at:

http://www.ncdhhs.gov/dss/pub notice/ and a hard copy is available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at:

NC Division of Social Services Central Office
Albemarle Building
325 North Salisbury Street
Raleigh, NC 27699-2420

The plan is also available at all county department of social services in North Carolina during normal business hours.

Citizens interested in commenting on the plan must submit written comments no later than February 5, 2012. Comments may be emailed to www.work.first@dhhs.nc.gov, faxed to (919) 334-1266, or mailed to:

Sherry Bradsher, Director
Division of Social Services
2420 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-2420

The North Carolina Temporary Assistance for Needy Families State Plan is submitted in accordance with Section 402 of the Social Security Act as revised by the Personal Responsibility and Work Responsibility Act of 1996 and the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005.

The TANF block grant funds must be used for families on public assistance and working families whose income is less than 200% of the federal poverty level. Services may include child care, transportation, housing assistance, teen pregnancy prevention and services for non-custodial parents.

Lori Walston
Public Information Officer
Office of Public Affairs
NC DHHS
(919) 855-4841
919/733-7447

Shag dance classes

Four-week sessions begin each month• Thursdays at High Rock Boat & Ski Club•

Wednesdays at Ollie’s Ice Cream and Sandwich Shop, Kannapolis. Instructors are pro division dancers in Competitive Shag Association (carolinashaglessons.com). Thursdays: Beginner, 6:30-7 p.m. (preregister needed);
Beginner II, 7- 7:45; Intermediate/Advanced, 8-9. Wednesdays: Beginner, 7- 7:45; Beginner II, 8-8:45. $ 10 per person per week, no partner needed. Contact Tobitha 704-202-9655 or tstewartrealtor@gmail.com.; David or Diane Harrington 704-279-6168.

Gov. Perdue Urges More Sponsors to Help Provide Summer Meals for Kids

RALEIGH – More than one in four children in North Carolina are not getting enough food to eat to lead healthy, active lives, according to the study, Food Hardship in America 2010. With the leadership of Governor Bev Perdue, a public- private partnership is working to connect more eligible low-income children to federally funded food and nutrition programs like the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), administered by the N.C. Division of Public Health.

In summer 2011, the summer food program provided free meals to an average of 74,554 children each day. Another 16,561 were fed on average each day by a similar program administered by the N.C. Department of Public Instruction. However, the combined numbers only represent 12 percent of the children in our state who are eligible for meals. According to public school data, more than 770,000 children received free or reduced price school meals during the last school year. Gov. Perdue is encouraging more community organizations to to join the fight against childhood hunger by joining No Kid Hungry North Carolina.

“More than 30 counties either serve less than 5 percent of their needy children during the summer or do not offer a summer food program,” said Alice Lenihan, head of the N.C. Division of Public Health’s Nutrition Services Branch. “The program provides sponsors with full federal reimbursement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for each meal they serve, so there is no reason that children should go hungry during the summer.”

Schools, local government agencies, private nonprofits, and locations where children congregate during the summer, such as parks, swimming pools, and low-income housing complexes can participate as either sponsors or feeding sites. To qualify, a site must either be located in a low-income area where 50 percent or more of the children in the area are eligible for free or reduced- price school meals, or it must serve primarily low- income children, at least half of whom are eligible for free or reduced-price school meals. Most sites can provide up two meals a day through the program.

Participating sponsors will receive free training during March. Summer food service applications should be submitted by May 15. More information is available at www.nutritionnc.com/snp/sfsp.h tm. For the training schedule or to find out how to apply to be a sponsor, contact the N.C. Division of Public Health’s Special Nutrition Programs office at (919) 707- 5799.

For your Computer needs
IT Professional

Doug Hathcock
Certified
dhathcock@carolina.rr.com
704-438-5602
Hardware/Software Upgrades/ Consulying/PC Repair/Virus Removal/Security/Network Infrastructure/wireless networking/ custon websites.

New Web-Based Wellness Resource Offers North Carolina Small
Businesses Tools to Improve Employee Health and Increase
Productivity

RALEIGH – Gov. Bev Perdue announces the launch of a free, web-based tool to help small businesses develop worksite wellness programs. WorkWell NC, coordinated through the N.C. Division of Public Health, offers free resources to help small business owners and their employees who want to lose weight, quit smoking and manage stress. The WorkWell NC toolkit may be found at www.EatSmartMoveMoreNC.com.

“A healthy, educated workforce is essential to keeping North Carolina’s economic engine well tuned,” said Gov Perdue. “I am committed to providing the tools that businesses need to grow, thrive and keep employees healthy and on the job. Programs like WorkWell NC are an integral part of this effort.”

According to the Small Business Administration, nearly 50 percent of people employed in North Carolina are employed by a small business (500 or less employees). Nearly one-third of uninsured people are employed by small businesses with less than 100 workers, according to the 2008 Current Population Survey. The WorkwellNC resources provide small businesses the opportunity to offer their employees a benefit that will help keep them healthier and ultimately reduce health care costs.

“There is strong evidence that participating in a worksite wellness program pays off for employers,” said Dr. Ruth Petersen of the N.C. Division of Public Health. “The American Institute for Preventive Medicine estimates that worksite wellness programs deliver an average of $3 return on investment for every $1 spent, through increased productivity and reduced health care costs.”

The toolkit is complete – with information ranging from implementing a worksite wellness program to measuring results. Business owners can download posters, newsletters, sign-up sheets, certificates, surveys and evaluation tools. The kit also includes links to videos featuring fellow business owners from a variety of North Carolina companies promoting healthy lifestyles and seeing results. One example that businesses can easily implement is the Ten Minute Challenge­ - a pre- programmed set of activities that employees can do in10 minutes to improve their health.

“A healthy and productive workforce means a better bottom line for businesses,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Keith Crisco. “However, addressing tomorrow’s health conditions today is not only good for business, it’s important for the employee so they can lead a healthier and more active life.”

“I would encourage any business owner to try it – making small changes in your working environment can lead to really big results,” said Tara Olsen, Owner of All Points Research in Winston- Salem, speaking about her experience with worksite wellness in one of the featured videos. Other video success stories feature A-10 Clinical Solutions, Acme McCrary Corporation, The Biltmore Company, The Body Shop, Carolina Pad, RE Mason and Salina Naturally.

Eat Smart, Move More North Carolina is a statewide movement that promotes increased opportunities for healthy eating and physical activity wherever people live, learn, earn, play and pray. For more information on healthful eating and active lifestyles, visit www.MyEatSmartMoveMore.com.

Julie Henry
Public Information Officer
N.C. Department of Health and Human Services
919-855-4840
julie.henry@dhhs.nc.gov

Presidents Day Luncheon

Wednesday, February 22 at 11:30am for Presidents of senior clubs and organizations connected to the Center. Rufty-Holmes will provide a buffet luncheon to salute the volunteer leadership provided by the heads of the various groups. A program will follow to update clubs on the Center's development of a new strategic plan for 2013-2017. Call 704-216-7714 to make reservations.

Rufty-Holmes Senior Center
1120 S. Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue
Salisbury, North Carolina 28144-5658
You can call us at:
704-216-7714
You can fax us at:
704-633-8517

New Computer Classes

Start the year off learning something new--- computers. "Introduction to Computers" will meet Wednesday, February 8 through Friday, February 10 from 9:00 am - noon. This introductory class will give an overview of Windows 7, Microsoft Word, and the Internet. You do not have to own a computer to take the class. The center lab is available for individual use by center members when classes are not in session. Fee is $28

Using Microsoft Word

Explore some of the other options available on Microsoft Word. How do you add graphics to a document? What about columns? Learn to do a spread sheet with addresses and phone numbers. Microsoft Word meets Wednesday, February 15 through Friday, February 17 from 1:00-3:00 pm. Fee is $20

How Can the Internet Benefit You?

Learn about email, come explore the Internet. Find out about social networking, shopping online, brain games, and more. "How Can the Internet Benefit You?" meets Thursday, February 23 and Friday, February 24 from 1:00-4:00 pm. Fee is $20

Rufty-Holmes Senior Center Computer Class sizes are small. You will receive a lot of individual attention. Spaces are limited. Registration for each computer program will close three days prior to the start of the first class of that program.

Rufty-Holmes Senior Center
1120 S. Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue
Salisbury, North Carolina 28144-5658
You can call us at:
704-216-7714
You can fax us at:
704-633-8517

Annual African-American History Breakfast
Friday, February 24 beginning at 8:30am at the Senior Center. The speaker will be Audrey Kates Bailey, retired Director of Public Relations for the NC Community College system, and former commentator for PBS's "NC Now." Cost is $6.00 per person at the door, but advance reservations are required. Call 704-216-7714 by Monday, February 20 at noon to make a reservation. Open to any interested older adult.

Rufty-Holmes Senior Center
1120 S. Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue
Salisbury, North Carolina 28144-5658
You can call us at:
704-216-7714
You can fax us at:
704-633-8517

Blood Drives

February 05, 2012
1:00 PM - 5:30 PM
St. Matthews Lutheran Church
9275 Bringle Ferry Rd
Salisbury, NC 28146
Please call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to schedule an appointment

February 05, 2012
1:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Christiana Lutheran Church
6190 Hwy 52
Salisbury, NC 28146
Please call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to schedule an appointment

February 26, 2012
12:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Faith Baptist
203 N Main St
Faith, NC 28041
Please call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to schedule an appointment

Health Education Classes

Nurse educators from the rural health program at the W.G. (Bill) Hefner VA Medical Center will be conducting health education classes at the American Legion Post 66, 1450 North Main Street, Mooresville, beginning Jan. 18.

The health education classes will be held the third Wednesday of each month, for six months, from 10 a.m. until noon. The classes will focus on diabetes self-management and will last approximately two hours each. Additional time for one-on-one sessions will be allowed at the end of each class. Future class dates are Feb. 15, March 21, April 18, May 16 and June 20. The classes are free of charge.

All veterans currently receiving VA health care are encouraged to attend. However, all former and current military members and their family members are invited to attend the classes. The team also provides assistance and education on registration and enrollment for VA health care.

For more information, contact the rural health program office at 1-800-469- 8262, ext. 4937, 4642

New Classes Starting This Month

Bridge

Every Friday at 10:00am. Class intended for contract bridge players who want to modernize their game and learn more about basic and commonly used bridge conventions. Both social and advancing beginner duplicate bridge players are encouraged to participate. There will be an emphasis on bidding, play and defense. Cost is $6 per session. Instructors will be Harold & Carol Winecoff. For more information, and to register, contact the Front Desk or call the Winecoffs at 704-857-2770.

Handmade Cards

Wednesday, February 1 at 1:00pm. Complete six handmade cards in one two-hour workshop session. All supplies will be provided. Cost is $12 per person payable upon arrival. Instructor is Daphne Houghton. Advance registration is required by calling the Center at 704- 216-7714.

Line Dancing

Beginners/Intermediate- Taught by Cheryl Kluttz. Thursdays at 5:00pm beginning February 9. $9 for month or $5 per class. Pre- register by calling the Center at 704-216-7714.

Mind Aerobics Art Class

An introduction to mass drawing, pastels and sculpture is explained and demonstrated by professional artist Robert Toth. Explore the novelty that keeps the brain alive through the inspiration that art can give you. Choice of Monday or Friday afternoons from 2- 4pm. $10 per session payable to the instructor.

Watercolor Workshops

Monday evenings at 7:00pm with Frank Saunders. Receive individual guidance and benefit from group instruction as you work on your own watercolor projects. $12 fee per session payable to the instructor. Pre- registration is not required.

Rufty-Holmes Senior Center
1120 S. Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue
Salisbury, North Carolina 28144-5658
You can call us at:
704-216-7714
You can fax us at:
704-633-8517

Club Meetings This Month

TOPS Chapter - Each Monday at 9:30am

Men's Breakfast Club - Each Tuesday at 8:30am

Rufty Holmes Lady Liners - Each Tuesday at 10:00am

Creative Needles Group - Each Wednesday at 9:30am

R-H Computer Club - Each Thursday at 10:00am

Woodcarvers Group - Each Thursday at 1:30pm

Evergreen Bridge Club - Each Friday at 1:00pm

Busy Bees Crafts Club - Thursday, February 2 at 9:30am

Seniors Morning Out - Thursday, February 2 at 10:00am

AARP Chapter - Thursday, February 2 at 1:00pm

Golf Association of Rowan Seniors - Monday, February 6 at 8:30am

Ambassadors Club - Monday, February 6 at noon

Better Breathing Club - Wednesday, February 8 at 2:00pm

Seniors Without Partners - Thursday, February 9 at 9:00am

Art Gang -Thursday, February 9 at 10:00am

Walk-abouts - Thursday, February 9 at 1:00pm

Starry Night Quilters - Thursday, February 9 at 6:30pm

Rufty-Holmes Garden Club - Monday, February 13 at 2:00pm

Rowan Amateur Radio Society - Monday, February 13 at 7:00pm

Salisbury-Rowan Quilters Guild Meeting - Thursday, February 16 at 1:00pm

Carolina Artists - Thursday, February 16 at 7:00pm

Southside Extension Homemakers - Monday, February 20 at 10:00am

NARFE - Monday, February 20 at 1:00pm

DAV Chapter 96 & Auxiliary - Monday, February 20 at 6:30pm

Rowan County Council on Aging - Thursday, February 23 at 1:00pm

Ole Rowan Fiber Guild - Monday, February 27 at 6:30pm

Rufty-Holmes Senior Center
1120 S. Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue
Salisbury, North Carolina 28144-5658
You can call us at:
704-216-7714
You can fax us at:
704-633-8517

Lunch Clubs

Rufty-Holmes Senior Center offers eight locations throughout Rowan County for adults age 60 and older to gather for lunch, fellowship and educational programs Monday thru Friday. There is no charge to participate, but donations are encouraged and accepted. For more information, call 704-216- 7702.

Rufty-Holmes Senior Center
1120 S. Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue
Salisbury, North Carolina 28144-5658
You can call us at:
704-216-7714
You can fax us at:
704-633-8517

Appointments for AARP Tax Assistance

Free one-to-one assistance to moderate or low income persons (with priority for seniors aged 60+) in completing simple federal and state income tax returns. Sponsored by AARP with trained volunteers. Each Tuesday in February, March & early April, at the Senior Center with a previous appointment. Morning and afternoon appointments available each month. Call 704-216-7714 to schedule an appointment. At the time of appointment, persons should bring with them a copy of their 2010 completed returns, and any statements of earnings or income received for 2011. Call for more information.

Rufty-Holmes Senior Center
1120 S. Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue
Salisbury, North Carolina 28144-5658
You can call us at:
704-216-7714
You can fax us at:
704-633-8517

SAFE Assistance

Rowan County older adults age 60+, or those with a disability, are eligible for assistance through the Safety Assessment for Emergencies (SAFE) Project sponsored by the Senior Center and funded through the generous support of the Robertson Family Foundation. Free smoke & carbon monoxide detectors as well as high visibility, glow -in-the- dark house number signs can be obtained free of charge. For more information call 704-216-7704.

Rufty-Holmes Senior Center
1120 S. Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue
Salisbury, North Carolina 28144-5658
You can call us at:
704-216-7714
You can fax us at:
704-633-8517

Assistance with Hearing Needs

For individuals who are hard of hearing and need assistance with hearing devices or telephone communication. Sponsored by the NC Division of Services for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing. Call to get a time for an appointment at Rufty- Holmes by calling 1-800-835- 5302.

Rufty-Holmes Senior Center
1120 S. Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue
Salisbury, North Carolina 28144-5658
You can call us at:
704-216-7714
You can fax us at:
704-633-8517

Living Healthy with Diabetes

Facing the challenge of diabetes? A new 6-week program, Living Healthy with Diabetes can help. This six- week program is for older adults diagnosed with pre- diabetes or diabetes, or caregivers of people who have the diagnosis. Participants will gain practical ways to help manage diabetes through healthy diet and nutrition, and exercise. The programs will also cover medications and other treatment choices, as well as better ways to talk with doctors and family members about the condition. The 2-1/2 hour weekly classes start Friday, February 24 and end Friday, March 30. Classes will be held at First Baptist Church, 223 N. Fulton Street, Salisbury. Space is limited. For more information or to sign up, call Rufty-Holmes Senior Center, 704-216-7714. There is no charge for the program but voluntary contributions will be accepted.

Rufty-Holmes Senior Center
1120 S. Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue
Salisbury, North Carolina 28144-5658
You can call us at:
704-216-7714
You can fax us at:
704-633-8517