Loading...
The URL can be used to link to this page
Your browser does not support the video tag.
Arts, Recreation, and Culture Committee - 14 Mar 2023 - Agenda - Pdf.pdf
City of Atlantic Beach Agenda Arts, Recreation, and Culture Committee (ARCC) Meeting Tuesday, March 14, 2023 - 6:00 p.m. Commission Chamber City Hall, 800 Seminole Road Page(s) 1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 2.A. Approve minutes of the February 14, 2023, Arts, Recreation, and Culture Committee meeting. Arts, Recreation, and Culture Committee - 14 Feb 2023 - Minutes 3 - 6 3. RECOGNITION OF VISITORS/PUBLIC COMMENTS 4. ONGOING BUSINESS 5. NEW BUSINESS 5.A. Integrative Memory Enhancement Program - Catherine Tupper 7-1 IMEP at HOME Thought Production 7-2 What is Neuroplasticity RTP IMEP Locations IMEP Pricing Guide (02-13-2023) 7 - 45 5.B. Jordan and Baker Community Centers Volunteers / Partnerships • Youth Pickleball Program - Barbara Diamond • Volunteer - Tracy Gebeaux • Atlantic Beach Country Club - Lisa Williams, Pam O'Conner, Virginia Natter • Atlantic Beach First Baptist Church - Jeff Backfisch • Beaches Vineyard Church - Bobby Spahn • Beaches Habitat Education Program - Sue Goebertus • New Life Church - Sarah Grace 5.C. Introduction of the established Gail Baker and Jordan Center Mangers 5.D. McKenzie's Camp Deep Pond Summer Fieldtrip Funding Request 5.E. ESC Art Competition 6. OPEN ITEMS / FOLLOW UP 6.A. Update on the Grant Recipients (Liaisons) Page 1 of 45 Arts, Recreation, and Culture Committee - 14 Mar 2023 6.B. ARCC Priorities Setting Meeting 6.C. Database of Programs 6.D. I-9 Sports Proposal 6.E. Recommendation to move A.B.E. Cultural Day and ASE Program to the City's Budget 7. OTHER AGENDA ITEMS/ANNOUNCEMENTS 7.A. ARCC Grant Workshop scheduled on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, at 5:00 pm 7.B. Next ARCC meeting scheduled for Tuesday, April 11, 2023 at 6:00 pm 8. ADJOURNMENT Any person wishing to speak to the Arts, Recreation, and Culture Committee on any matter at this meeting should submit a Comment Card located at the entrance to Commission Chamber prior to the start of the meeting. This meeting will be live-streamed and videotaped. To access live or recorded videos, click on the Meeting Videos tab on the city's home page at www.coab.us. In accordance with the American with Disabilities Act and Section 286.26 of the Florida Statutes, persons with disabilities needing special accommodations to participate in this meeting should contact City Clerk Donna Bartle at (904) 247-5809 or Deputy City Clerk Ladayija Nichols at (904) 247-5821 or at City Hall, 800 Seminole Road, Atlantic Beach, Florida not less than three (3) business days prior to the date of this meeting. Page 2 of 45 Arts, Recreation, and Culture Committee (ARCC) February 14, 2023 MINUTES Arts, Recreation, and Culture Committee (ARCC) Meeting Tuesday, February 14, 2023 - 6:00 PM Commission Chamber Present:An Oskarsson, CARAC Chair Jane Stevens, Member Lisa Goodrich, Member Mateo Jurasic, Member Mary Mullahey, Member Joseph Schwarz, Member Absent:Carol Silcox, Member Wally Sears, Alternate Member Also Present:Latrenia Thomas, Director of Cultural Arts and Recreation (DCAR) 1.CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL 2.APPROVAL OF MINUTES A.Approve minutes of the January 10, 2023 Arts, Recreation, and Culture Committee meeting and January 24, 2023, Workshop. B.OPEN ITEMS / FOLLOW UP Latrenia announced the typo on the agenda and explained the correct order of the agenda items. 3.RECOGNITION OF VISITORS/PUBLIC COMMENTS A.Mayport Middle Presentation Students from Mayport Coastal Science Middle School gave a presentation to request funding to improve the school’s outdoor classroom / garden area. The student's request is for $9,400.00 for materials and capital equipment. A handout was disbursed to each committee with the breakdown of the budget and supplies. The Committee members asked the Assistant Principal Jill Jenkins several questions in reference to the request. A motion was made to approve the request to go before the Commission if grant funding could be utilized to purchase capital equipment. B.Sheri Nicholson (New Age Hippy Grant Recipient) Sheri Nicholson gave a presentation on how well the program is going. She announced that she would like to request more funding to provide more workshops for the remainder of the year. A motion was made to New Age Hippie in the request of $3,750.00 to add six additional classes for the remaining Fiscal Year. Agenda Item #2.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 3 of 45 Arts, Recreation, and Culture Committee (ARCC) February 14, 2023 C.I9 Sports Presentation (Doug Ramsey) Latrenia shared with the Committee that with the separation of Dee Davis, who ran the Flag Football programs, the City Staff are looking for a way to continue youth sports in the community. She met with Doug Ramsey, the area developer for I-9 Sports, to discuss if I-9 Sports would be a great fit for the community. Doug shared the logistics of what the program offers and how, if the City partners with the organization, it will help develop more sports for youth in the area. Committee members asked questions in regard to the cost, discounts and coupons, due to the lower cost for youth sports in the previous years. It was recommended that the next action item would be for Latrenia to propose a fee structure. The Committee supports the partnership. The agenda item is set to be included at the next committee's meeting. D.Joy Carson and Jennifer Murray (ABE Grant Recipient) Latrenia shared that she met with Joy Carson to discuss asking for the full amount from the Grant Funds. Latrenia also shared that she would put in a request to ask the City to adopt ABE's After-school Enrichment Program and the Cultural Day under the Recreation Departments budget. She shared that her proposal is to give the committee a more accurate budget moving forward. Joy's request was to ask for $1,750 from the Grant Funds to use for Atlantic Beach Elementary for their annual Cultural Day. The Committee shared their comments in reference to Joy's request. A motion was made to fund the remainder of the request pending there is a proposed budget for the Cultural Day's upcoming budget and the previous year's budget. The second motion in reference to moving the programs into the City's Recreation budget will be discussed at the next committee meeting. E.Qigong - Claire Holland Claire Holland proposed to teach an afternoon Qigong class. The purpose for the class would be to target those who are unable to attend the classes during the day. Committee members asked questions to gather more information in reference to the request. It was also recommended to start a list of proposed programs and a list of events. 4.ONGOING BUSINESS A.Wild Wonders Rotating Locations (Latrenia) Latrenia gave an update that she spoke with Mike Rossi from Wild Wonders, and he would be willing to rotate to other locations. Committee members shared their views about rotating the event. A recommendation was given to try the event at another location where it meets the criteria of the requirements to perform. B.Database of Programs (An) There was a brief discussion in reference to the layout of the Database spreadsheet. It was requested to forward the blueprint to all Committee members and to also request feedback. Agenda Item #2.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 4 of 45 Arts, Recreation, and Culture Committee (ARCC) February 14, 2023 C.ARCC Priorities Setting Report Latrenia shared that Kevin Hogencamp put together a rough draft from what he gathered from the ARCC Priorities Setting Workshop. The revised version would be emailed to the Committee members and their feedback was welcomed to discuss in the March's meeting. D.Commission Meetings Report (Jane) Jane mentioned the jobs listing for the community centers. Jessica Ring spoke briefly in reference that Jane's assessment for the job description did not match the salary that is offered by the City. It was also mentioned that the Committee can work on it at a later time. An asked for a response from Commissioner Ring in reference to the ARCC not being in support to fund the Cold Night. Commissioner Ring shared that Shane discussed in the Commission meeting that the funds would not be deducted from the ARCC Grant Funds. E.Update on the Grant Recipients (Liaisons) It was announced that the agenda item would be moved March meeting. 5.NEW BUSINESS A.Kids Hope Alliance Vendor Fair on February 23, 2023 Latrenia shared that Recreation staff is planning to attend the Kids Hope Alliance Vendor Fair to seek funding from the organization to implement additional programs, staffing, supplies and funding. B. ESC Art Competition This item was deferred to next month's meeting. 6.OPEN ITEMS / FOLLOW UP A.Volunteer Program Joe gave a brief update that he's working with the Rotatory Club and Fletcher High students to volunteer for Arts in the Park. He has been working with staff to organize the volunteer program. Jessica Ring shared that it was on the City's Priorities list. The Committee shared that they would consider making a formal recommendation to the Commission in reference to hiring a staff member to manage the volunteer program. 7.OTHER AGENDA ITEMS/ANNOUNCEMENTS A.Beaches Fine Arts Series 4th concert of the 50th anniversary season on Sunday, February 5 at 4:00 pm. Doors open at 3:15 pm 8.ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, Chair _________________ adjourned the meeting at Agenda Item #2.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 5 of 45 Arts, Recreation, and Culture Committee (ARCC) February 14, 2023 ________________ p.m. Attest: An Oskarsson, Chair Latrenia Thomas Agenda Item #2.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 6 of 45 2023-7-1 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. Thought Production Have you ever wondered how our brains produce thoughts? Research is ongoing into the complex, mysterious organ that is the brain. As Dr. Sarah-Jayne Blakemore, Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience at the Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, England, points out, “there are more neurons in the brain than there are stars in the galaxy’, and our existing neurons form more than one million new connection between them every day.” Thinking is not a single action, but an intricate collaborative dance of processes that include concept formation, problem solving, daydreaming, imagination, recall, free association, and various other cognitive activities. The average human being thinks tens of thousands of thoughts every day, and research shows that the more we stimulate thought, the more efficiently our brain’s function. The brain’s ability to adapt, change, and rewire itself enables us to learn throughout our lives regardless of age. To do this, we must continue to challenge our brain and exercise its many interrelated parts to keep them healthy, flexible, and fit. Neuroscience has shown that we can consciously encourage and stimulate our brains to produce new thoughts by constantly seeking out new interests and challenges. Let’s take advantage of that and get started! 1 From Molecules to Minds: Challenges for the 21st Century: Workshop Summary by the Institute of Medicine (US) Forum on Neuroscience and Nervous Systems Disorders. Washington, D.C. National Academies Press (US), 2008. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK50989/ Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 7 of 45 2023-7-1 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. LOVE, HEART, KISS, OR CANDY Instructions: All answers rhyme with one of these words: LOVE, HEART, KISS, CANDY. Write answers in the spaces provided below. 1. The main ingredient in a hot toddy____________________________________________________ 2. A beautiful white bird holding an olive branch that is the symbol of peace_____________________ 3. Supreme and utter joy and happiness, or absolute ________________________________________ 4. Something exceptional, as in fine and _________________________________________________ 5. A piece of clothing that covers the hand and wrist________________________________________ 6. Paintings, drawings, and sculptures are a form of this_____________________________________ 7. You’ll need one of these if you’re grocery shopping with a long list_________________________ 8. To feel the absence or loss of________________________________________________________ 9. Having or showing quick-witted intelligence____________________________________________ 10. To push or jostle__________________________________________________________________ 11. Something or someone convenient and useful___________________________________________ 12. Opposite of below_________________________________________________________________ 13. Pertaining to Switzerland, and a type of cheese__________________________________________ 14. To give permission to depart_________________________________________________________ 15. A plant with trumpet-like blossoms. Beware though, it’s poisonous__________________________ 16. To begin a journey or activity________________________________________________________ 17. To recall past events and experiences__________________________________________________ 18. A yellowish-red color. Or if you go to the beach, you will get all ____________________________ 19. Short for Randall or Randolph_______________________________________________________ 20. Sour or sharp to the taste____________________________________________________________ Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 8 of 45 2023-7-1 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. LOVE, HEART, KISS, OR CANDY – ANSWER SHEET Instructions: Correct answers are provided below. 1. The main ingredient in a hot toddy......................................................................Brandy or Whiskey 2. A beautiful white bird holding an olive branch that is the symbol of peace................................Dove 3. Supreme and utter joy and happiness, or absolute .......................................................................Bliss 4. Something exceptional, as in fine and _______ .......................................................................Dandy 5. A piece of clothing that covers the hand and wrist.....................................................................Glove 6. Paintings, drawings, and sculptures are a form of this...................................................................Art 7. You’ll need one of these if you’re grocery shopping with a long list...........................................Cart 8. To feel the absence or loss of........................................................................................................Miss 9. Having or showing quick-witted intelligence.............................................................................Smart 10. To push or jostle..........................................................................................................................Shove 11. Something or someone convenient and useful...........................................................................Handy 12. Opposite of below.......................................................................................................................Above 13. Pertaining to Switzerland, and a type of cheese...........................................................................Swiss 14. To give permission to depart....................................................................................................Dismiss 15. A plant with trumpet-like blossoms. Beware though, it’s poisonous.....................................Foxglove 16. To begin a journey or activity.......................................................................................................Start 17. To recall past events and experiences...................................................................................Reminisce 18. A yellowish-red color. Or if you go to the beach, you will get all _______ ...............................Sandy 19. Short for Randall or Randolph....................................................................................................Randy 20. Sour or sharp to the taste................................................................................................................Tart Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 9 of 45 2023-7-1 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. VALENTINE’S DAY SWEETHEART CHALLENGE – TRIVIA A sweetheart is one who is loved, and love creates strong memories. Let’s see if love is in the air! Instructions: Read the following questions about romance and relationships in both nature and popular culture. How many can you answer correctly? 1. This 1970 romantic drama won an Academy Award for Best Original Score, but the film’s tagline, “love means never having to say you’re sorry”, is what most people remember about this movie. A) Taming of the Shrew B) Moonstruck C) Love Story Answer: _____________________________________________________________________ 2. Which professional usually receives the most Valentine’s Day cards? A) Doctor B) Teacher C) Secretary Answer: _____________________________________________________________________ 3. What is the name of the candy company that makes Sweethearts, the multi-colored sugary candies with Valentine messages on them? A) Necco B) Mars C) Hershey Answer: _____________________________________________________________________ 4. True or False: Monogamous relationships exist within the animal kingdom. Answer: _____________________________________________________________________ 5. Legend has it that kissing this creature will turn it into your true prince. A) Lizard B) Frog C) Dog Answer: _____________________________________________________________________ 6. What is the average age for receiving one’s ‘first kiss’ in America? A) 15 years B) 18 years C) 21 years Answer: _____________________________________________________________________ Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 10 of 45 2023-7-1 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. VALENTINE’S DAY SWEETHEART CHALLENGE – TRIVIA - CONT 7. In the early 1800s, Valentine’s Day became more popular than ever before, thanks to what? A) Cheaper lace B) Cheaper perfume C) Cheaper postage Answer: _____________________________________________________________________ 8. True or False: Valentine’s Day always falls on a Sunday. Answer: _____________________________________________________________________ 9. What disease goes by the nickname ‘The Kissing Disease’? A) Mononucleosis B) Poison Ivy C) Chicken Pox Answer: _____________________________________________________________________ 10. In this award-winning movie, the part about two young people who fall in love is fictional, but the tragic sinking of the ship they are aboard is based on fact. A) Molly Brown B) Titanic C) Love Boat Answer: _____________________________________________________________________ 11. What is the name of the God of Love and Desire in Greek mythology? A) Zeus B) Apollo C) Eros Answer: _____________________________________________________________________ 12. Who was the first married couple on a network television series to be shown together in a double bed? A) Mike and Carol Brady B) Ricky and Lucy Ricardo C) Homer and Marge Simpson Answer: _____________________________________________________________________ Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 11 of 45 2023-7-1 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. VALENTINE’S DAY SWEETHEART CHALLENGE – TRIVIA – ANSWER SHEET Instructions: Correct answers are provided below. 1. This 1970 romantic drama won an Academy Award for Best Original Score, but the film’s tagline, “love means never having to say you’re sorry”, is what most people remember about this movie. A) Taming of the Shrew B) Moonstruck C) Love Story Answer: C) Love Story. Although it begins with sweethearts who eventually marry, and ends in a tragedy, it is considered one of the most romantic films of all time. 2. Which professional usually receives the most Valentine’s Day cards? A) Doctor B) Teacher C) Secretary Answer: B) Teacher. Most teachers say a Valentine’s Day card still won’t sway them toward giving a better grade to that student. 3. What is the name of the candy company that makes Sweethearts, the multi-colored sugary candies with Valentine messages on them? A) Necco B) Mars C) Hershey Answer: A) Necco. Necco reports that they manufacture around two billion Sweethearts per year. 4. True or False: Monogamous relationships exist within the animal kingdom. Answer: True. Humans are not the only species known to remain faithful. Swans, vultures, wolves, barn owls and termites are just a few species that mate for life. 5. Legend has it that kissing this creature will turn it into your true prince. A) Lizard B) Frog C) Dog Answer: B) Frog. There are over 4,000 species of frogs around the world, 90 of which are indigenous to the United States, so kiss away! 6. What is the average age for receiving one’s ‘first kiss’ in America? A) 15 years B) 18 years C) 21 years Answer: A) 15 years. 70% of Americans admit to having their first kiss by the age of 15. Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 12 of 45 2023-7-1 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. VALENTINE’S DAY SWEETHEART CHALLENGE – TRIVIA – ANSWER SHEET – CONT. 7. In the early 1800s, Valentine’s Day became more popular than ever before, thanks to what? A) Cheaper lace B) Cheaper perfume C) Cheaper postage Answer: C) Cheaper postage. Currently, about 1 billion Valentine’s Day cards are exchanged annually. Next to Christmas, it is the largest card-sending holiday of the year. 8. True or False: Valentine’s Day always falls on a Sunday. Answer: False. Valentine’s Day is celebrated on February 14th every year. 9. What disease goes by the nickname ‘The Kissing Disease’? A) Mononucleosis B) Poison Ivy C) Chicken Pox Answer: A) Mononucleosis. It is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus and is spread through saliva. 10. In this award-winning movie, the part about two young people who fall in love is fictional, but the tragic sinking of the ship they are aboard is based on fact. A) Molly Brown B) Titanic C) Love Boat Answer: B) Titanic. The movie won eleven Academy Awards. 11. What is the name of the God of Love and Desire in Greek mythology? A) Zeus B) Apollo C) Eros Answer: C) Eros. Cupid is the Roman counterpart of Eros. 12. Who was the first married couple on a network television series to be shown together in a double bed? A) Mike and Carol Brady B) Ricky and Lucy Ricardo C) Homer and Marge Simpson Answer: A) Mike and Carol Brady. The Brady Bunch directors deemed it okay to show Mike and Carol in bed together because they were married. The show aired from 1969 to 1974. Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 13 of 45 2023-7-1 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. WHAT COMES NEXT? Instructions: In this sequencing exercise, figure out what two numbers come next. You may need paper and a pencil for calculations. The first answer has been provided as an example. 1. 10, 25, 40, ..................................................................................55, 70 (plus 15) 2. 2000, 1000, 500, ...........................................................__________________ 3. 81, 72, 63, ..................................................................... __________________ 4. 4, 7, 10, ......................................................................... __________________ 5. 2, 4, 8, ........................................................................... __________________ 6. 26, 30, 34, ..................................................................... __________________ 7. 57, 50, 43, .................................................................... __________________ 8. 112, 100, 88, ................................................................ __________________ 9. 1, 6, 11, ........................................................................ __________________ 10. 3, 9, 27, ...................................................................... __________________ 11. 12, 24, 36, .................................................................. __________________ 12. 10, 50, 250, ................................................................ __________________ 13. 1, 14, 27, ...................................................................... __________________ 14. 12, 11, 14, 13, 16, 15, 18, .......................................... __________________ 15. 540, 420, 300,.............................................................. __________________ Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 14 of 45 2023-7-1 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. WHAT COMES NEXT? – ANSWER SHEET Instructions: Correct answers are provided below. 1. 10, 25, 40, ................................................................................55, 70 (plus 15) 2. 2000, 1000, 500, ............................................................250, 125 (divide by 2) 3. 81, 72, 63, ...............................................................................54, 45 (minus 9) 4. 4, 7, 10, ......................................................................................13, 16 (plus 3) 5. 2, 4, 8, ......................................................................................16, 32 (times 2) 6. 26, 30, 34, ..................................................................................38, 42 (plus 4) 7. 57, 50, 43, ...............................................................................36, 29 (minus 7) 8. 112, 100, 88, .........................................................................76, 64 (minus 12) 9. 1, 6, 11, ......................................................................................16, 21 (plus 5) 10. 3, 9, 27, .................................................................................81, 243 (times 3) 11. 12, 24, 36, ..............................................................................48, 60 (plus 12) 12. 10, 50, 250, .....................................................................1250, 6250 (times 5) 13. 1, 14, 27, ................................................................................40, 53 (plus 13) 14. 12, 11, 14, 13, 16, 15, 18, ....................................17, 20, 19 (minus 1, plus 3) 15. 540, 420, 300, ...............................................................180, 60 (subtract 120) Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 15 of 45 2023-7-1 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. THOUGHTFUL HISTORICAL QUOTES These eloquent quotes from famous historical figures are thought-provoking and meaningful. Instructions: Read the following quotes and choose the author of the quote from the options below. 1. Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game. ....................................__________ 2. You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose!...................................................................................................................................._________ 3. Live in the sunshine, swim the sea, drink the wild air.......................................___________________ 4. I have a dream...................................................................................................___________________ 5. Life itself is the most wonderful fairy tale....................................................._____________________ 6. You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough............................................._____________ 7. In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years............_______________ 8. Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country... ______________ 9. Whether you think you can or you think you can't, you're right.......................................____________ 10. Housework can’t kill you but why take a chance?.............................................................____________ 11. The buck stops here.........................................................................................................._____________ 12. There are only two ways to live your life. One as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle....................................................................................................._____________ 13. Speak softly and carry a big stick............................................................................._________________ 14. You must be the change you wish to see in the world................................................________________ 15. Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love................._____________ 16. I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country...............................................____________ Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 16 of 45 2023-7-1 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. THOUGHTFUL HISTORICAL QUOTES – ANSWER SHEET Instructions: Correct answers are provided below. 1. Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game. ....................................Babe Ruth 2. You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose!....................................................................................................................................Dr. Seuss 3. Live in the sunshine, swim the sea, drink the wild air.......................................Ralph Waldo Emerson 4. I have a dream...................................................................................................Martin Luther King, Jr. 5. Life itself is the most wonderful fairy tale.....................................................Hans Christian Andersen 6. You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough......................................................Mae West 7. In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years............Abraham Lincoln 8. Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country... John F. Kennedy 9. Whether you think you can or you think you can't, you're right..........................................Henry Ford 10. Housework can’t kill you but why take a chance?.............................................................Phyllis Diller 11. The buck stops here..........................................................................................................Harry Truman 12. There are only two ways to live your life. One as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.....................................................................................................Albert Einstein 13. Speak softly and carry a big stick.............................................................................Theodore Roosevelt 14. You must be the change you wish to see in the world................................................Mahatma Gandhi 15. Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.................Mother Teresa 16. I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country...............................................Nathan Hale Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 17 of 45 2023-7-1 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. QUICK THINKING Brain Benefits: Answering questions quickly and in rapid succession boosts brain activity, increases focus, and boosts thought production. It also requires us to listen attentively. The following questions are designed to be answered as quickly as possible. Since there is no common theme to the questions, the brain has to search harder for answers. Instructions: For each of the following questions answer them as quickly as you can. There are many different possible answers for each question! Keep going until all questions have been answered. 1. Name two girls’ names beginning with “S”. 2. Name a European city. 3. Name something warm to drink. 4. Name two ways to prepare potatoes. 5. Name three dog breeds. 6. Name a cat breed. 7. Name something on a Chinese menu. 8. Name a number between 20 and 30. 9. Name a lake anywhere in the world. 10. Name a color starting with the letter “R”. 11. Name a food starting with the letter “M”. 12. Name a state that ends with the letter “A”. 13. Name a desert anywhere in the world. 14. Name two boys’ names that begin with “A”. 15. Name a type of tree. 16. Name a holiday that occurs in the spring. 17. Name a holiday that occurs in the autumn. 18. Name a food that contains apples. 19. Name three things that are green. 20. Name two types of birds. 21. Name a food that is salty. 22. Name two tools you would find in a toolbox. 23. Name an occupation that starts with “A”. 24. Name two words that rhyme with “net”. 25. Name two types of precipitation. 26. Name two farm animals. 27. Name something that is white. 28. Name something you do with yarn. 29. Name two winter sports. 30. Name a country that begins with “B”. 31. Name something you wear on your neck. 32. Name two things you can do with ice. 33. Name something you do at the beach. 34. Name a type of fish. 35. Name two things that float. Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 18 of 45 2023-7-1 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. FACT OR OPINION – 2nd EDITION A fact is a true statement that can be supported by hard data. An opinion is a feeling or belief about a particular topic or thing. Instructions: Read aloud the sentences below, one at a time. Can you decide if they are fact or opinion? Circle either (fact) or (opinion) next to each question to answer. 1. Yellowstone National Park is the most beautiful park in the United States. (Fact) (Opinion) 2. The Rolling Stones were a rock band. (Fact) (Opinion) 3. Saturday, June 20th is the first day of summer in the northern hemisphere. (Fact) (Opinion) 4. This cake tastes delicious. (Fact) (Opinion) 5. This Memory Enhancement Class is interesting. (Fact) (Opinion) 6. John Adams served as the 2nd President of the United States. (Fact) (Opinion) 7. Tasmanian Tigers are extinct. (Fact) (Opinion) 8. Tasmanian Tigers are adorable. (Fact) (Opinion) 9. The Jacksonville Jaguars football team is based in Jacksonville, Florida. (Fact) (Opinion) 10. Football is the most exciting sport. (Fact) (Opinion) 11. Summer is the best season of the year. (Fact) (Opinion) 12. Earth is the 3rd planet from the sun. (Fact) (Opinion) 13. St. Augustine is a city on the east coast of Florida. (Fact) (Opinion) 14. St. Augustine is a fun place to visit. (Fact) (Opinion) 15. The movie was boring. (Fact) (Opinion) Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 19 of 45 2023-7-1 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. FACT OR OPINION – 2nd EDITION – ANSWER SHEET Instructions: Correct answers are provided below. 1. Yellowstone National Park is the most beautiful park in the United States. (opinion) 2. The Rolling Stones were a rock band. (fact) 3. Saturday, June 20th is the first day of summer in the northern hemisphere. (fact) 4. This cake tastes delicious. (opinion) 5. This Memory Enhancement Class is interesting. (opinion) 6. John Adams served as the 2nd President of the United States. (fact) 7. Tasmanian Tigers are extinct. (fact) 8. Tasmanian Tigers are adorable. (opinion) 9. The Jacksonville Jaguars football team is based in Jacksonville, Florida. (fact) 10. Football is the most exciting sport. (opinion) 11. Summer is the best season of the year. (opinion) 12. Earth is the 3rd planet from the sun. (fact) 13. St. Augustine is a city on the east coast of Florida. (fact) 14. St. Augustine is a fun place to visit. (opinion) 15. The movie was boring. (opinion) Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 20 of 45 2023-7-1 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. THINK TANK Rhyming serves several purposes when it comes to exercising the brain. First, we have to process the sound, recognize it, and then quickly access our vocabulary database to find real words that sound the same. At the same time, we might be playing around with different letters to see if they fit, so we are also analyzing new combinations of letters to see if they make a real word that we can then identify and use. Instructions: How many rhyming words can you come up with for each word below? 1. RHYME 2. BRAIN 3. SIGHT 4. SMELL 5. WORD 6. SPOKE 7. EYE 8. EAR 9. TONGUE 10. NERVE 11. FEEL 12. SENSE 13. SEE 14. TASTE 15. TOUCH ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 21 of 45 2023-7-1 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. THINK TANK – ANSWER SHEET Instructions: Some possible answers are provided below. You may think of many more. 1. RHYME 2. BRAIN 3. SIGHT 4. SMELL 5. WORD 6. SPOKE 7. EYE 8. EAR 9. TONGUE 10. NERVE 11. FEEL 12. SENSE 13. SEE 14. TASTE 15. TOUCH [time, crime, lime, slime, dime, mime, climb, grime] [grain, rain, gain, pain, sane, mane, main, plain, wane, drain, crane, cane] [light, might, right, fight, delight, blight, white, write, tight, site, cite, night] [spell, bell, cell, sell, dell, gel, hell, fell, yell, well, tell, caramel] [bird, herd, curd, nerd, furred, heard] [broke, bloke, woke, toke, yolk, yoke, revoke, coke, folk, poke, stoke] [by, cry, dry, fry, high, sigh, lye, try, spy, fly, shy, my, pie, tie, sky] [hear, spear, fear, leer, mere, near, dear, gear, year, tear, cheer, sear, beer] [hung, wrung, dung, clung, flung, young, sung, lung] [verve, swerve, curve, serve, deserve, conserve, preserve, observe, reserve] [seal, deal, meal, heal, heel, wheel, teal, peel, steel, congeal] [fence, tense, expense, commence, condense, defense, immense, intense] [fee, flee, flea, sea, be, bee, we, me, thee, free, tree, she, he, pea, plea] [haste, paste, waste, faced, laced, raced, based, braced, placed, spaced] [clutch, crutch, much, such, Dutch, hutch, clutch] Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 22 of 45 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. 2023-7-2 DATE Wed./ Thurs. 2/15– 2/16 CLASS TOPIC: What is Neuroplasticity? WELCOME, CHECK – IN, MORNING COFFEE MORNING ANNOUNCEMENTS – Today’s Menu, Daily Weather Report, Upcoming Events, Discussion Question of the Day, History Lessons, Pledge of Allegiance, etc. Newsflash – The Power of Pumpkin Seeds MORNING STRETCH – Hydration, Aromatherapy, Tapping, Gentle Stretching, Diaphragmatic Breathing, Balance, Brain Integration Exercises, etc. MORNING MENTAL WARM-UPS Word Activity – Winging It Brain Trivia – Song and Dance - Trivia Brain Game – I Start, You Finish Math Challenge – Equivalent Lengths HEART RATE SAFE CHAIR AEROBICS LUNCH AFTERNOON STRETCH – Breathe, Stretch, Stand, Walk CLASS TOPIC AND ACTIVITIES Topic Article – What is Neuroplasticity? Neuroplasticity Knowledge – True or False Quiz – Group Activity Word Opposites – Board Activity Neuroplast Blast-Off – Worksheet Think it – Spell it– Bonus Activity – Group Activity GUIDED RELAXATION CLASS DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 23 of 45 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. DISCUSSION QUESTION OF THE DAY Facilitators: Present the discussion question to the participants and give them time to formulate their answers. Take turns going around the room, sharing responses. Remind participants that if anyone is uncomfortable with the activity they do not have to share. Another option is to have participants pair up with the person sitting next to them and ask each other the question. After allowing time for discussion and interaction, invite participants to share their answers. This activity utilizes communication skills, listening, and verbal fluency. Are you a morning person or a night owl? Have you always been? Would you prefer to be either? Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 24 of 45 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. HISTORY LESSONS ON THIS DAY IN HISTORY FEBRUARY 15 1799 – The first printed ballots were authorized for use in Pennsylvania. Prior to that voting was done by calling out the chosen candidate’s name or by writing the desired candidate’s name on a scrap of paper. 1898 – The USS Maine sank in the Havana harbor. It was there to protect US interests during Cuba’s revolt against Spain. The cause of the explosion of the battleship’s store of gunpowder remains unknown. 1903 – The first Teddy bear went on sale in the US. The toy was named after Theodore Roosevelt who enjoyed hunting. The story of his expedition that gave rise to the name is unclear: either he set free an old, injured bear that had been tied to a tree or he shot it out of pity. 1933 – Joe Zangara, an unemployed brick- layer, attempted to assassinate Franklin D. Roosevelt two weeks before his inauguration as President of the United States. He blamed FDR and capitalism for his chronic stomach pain. While he missed FDR, he killed Chicago’s mayor. 1950 – Walt Disney’s animated film Cinderella opened in Boston theaters. The movie’s success helped the company’s financial situation which was sluggish at the time. HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Susan B. Anthony Born: February 15, 1820, in Adams, Massachusetts Died: March 13, 1906 Nationality: American Profession: Women’s Rights Activist Why Famous: Susan B. Anthony played a key role in the women’s suffrage movement. Initially, she was ridiculed and accused of attempting to destroy the institution of marriage. She was arrested, tried, and convicted of voting in Rochester, NY, but refused to pay the fine. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton gave momentum to what eventually became the 19th Amendment, ratified in 1920, giving women the right to vote. QUOTE OF THE DAY “Every woman should have a purse of her own.” ~ Susan B. Anthony Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 25 of 45 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. HISTORY LESSONS ON THIS DAY IN HISTORY FEBRUARY 16 1857 – The first issue of Ladies’ Home Journal was published. In 1903, it became the first American magazine to reach a subscriber base of one million. Its final issue was in 2016. 1923 – The sarcophagus chamber of King Tutankhamun's tomb was discovered. King Tut became an Egyptian pharaoh in about 1332 B.C.E. and died at the age of 19. A 24- pound solid gold mask was found on his mummy’s head. 1959 – Fidel Castro was sworn in as prime minister of Cuba after having driven the country’s military dictator Fulgencio Batista into exile. Castro became president in 1976. 1968 – The first US 911-phone call was to the Haleyville, AL, police station from the city hall. In 1937, the number 999 had already been established in London, England, for emergency calls. 1980 – The longest traffic jam in history stretched 109 miles between Lyon and Paris, France. It was due to people returning from a ski holiday in bad weather. The jam consisted of 18 million cars crawling bumper- to-bumper because of highway congestion and poor weather. HAPPY BIRTHDAY! John McEnroe Born: February 16, 1959, in Wiesbaden, Germany Nationality: American Profession: Professional Tennis Player Why Famous: John McEnroe won four US Open and three Wimbledon singles tennis tournaments. He also won nine doubles titles and a mixed-doubles title. McEnroe finished four seasons in the early 1980s ranked as the #1 player. He played on the US Davis Cup team. He was known for his angry outbursts on the court that got him in trouble with the officials. He is a television commentator on the sport today. QUOTE OF THE DAY “As they say in sports, the older you get, the better you used to be.” ~ John McEnroe Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 26 of 45 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. NEWSFLASH THE POWER OF PUMPKIN SEEDS Pumpkin seeds get a bad rap. They look small, bland, and puny in the nutrition department but, just as with people, and superheroes, sometimes those who seem plain and unassuming wind up being the biggest dynamos. Aside from boasting a bold, earthy flavor, pumpkin seeds are rich sources of iron, fiber, protein, zinc, magnesium, chlorophyll, and healthy fats. Why are these nutrients so important? • Iron. Iron is a critical component of hemoglobin, the substance inside red blood cells that carries oxygen through our bodies. Without adequate amounts of iron in our diets, our lungs, brain, and other organs do not receive enough oxygen for optimal function. • Fiber. Fiber regulates blood sugar and insulin production, and aids digestion. • Protein. Just one ounce of pumpkin seeds provides 5 grams of protein. Protein is necessary for energy, concentration, and building and sustaining muscle tissue. • Zinc. Zinc helps our bodies metabolize carbohydrates, aids hormone production, and boosts immune health. • Magnesium. Magnesium is one of the first minerals in our bodies to be depleted by stress and anxiety. Insufficient magnesium can result in headaches, low blood sugar, insomnia, fatigue, constipation, and moodiness, among other conditions. • Chlorophyll. Chlorophyll cleanses pollutants from the body, such as toxic metals and some carcinogens. It also helps control hunger and cravings, and can prevent gas and constipation. • Healthy Fats. Omega-3 fatty acids improve heart health, prevent inflammation, and assist with weight management. Pumpkin seeds are also alkaline, anti-inflammatory, and non-allergenic, and studies indicate that even 1⁄4 cup of pumpkin seeds can help eliminate harmful microbes, including some parasites, from the body. Source: http://www.onegreenplanet.org/natural-health/why-everyone-should-add-pumpkin-seeds-to-their-diet/ Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 27 of 45 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. WINGING IT Instructions: Some words are really good at hiding inside other words. Write the word “WING” on the board as a reminder clue. Read the definitions and hints below and see how many words containing the word “WING” participants can identify. 1. When cold flakes fall from the sky in winter, we say that it is................................................Snowing 2. When we use a needle and thread to stitch up a hole in a shirt, we are.....................................Sewing 3. When you propel a boat using one or more oars, you are.........................................................Rowing 4. Cutting the grass on your lawn with a gas-powered machine is known as..............................Mowing 5. What a baseball player does with a bat........................................................................................Swing 6. When we move food from our mouths down our alimentary canal, we are.......................Swallowing 7. When a crow makes a loud squawking sound, it is...................................................................Cawing 8. When you take an offer off the bargaining table, you are doing what to it.......................Withdrawing 9. If you take up the same career that your father had, you are doing what in his footsteps.....Following 10. A pig rolling in mud to cool off is doing this.......................................................................Wallowing 11. When a bull roars in a loud, deep voice, it is ........................................................................Bellowing 12. Insects of this group have extremely delicate appendages to fly with...................................Lacewing 13. The American White Pelican has a _____ of six to twelve feet............................................Wingspan 14. Another word for the mooing of a cow is..................................................................................Lowing 15. We know a lamp has been turned on when the lightbulb is ....................................................Glowing 16. A golfer uses this to put power behind the forward movement of his/her club....................Backswing 17. A pig giving birth is said to be...............................................................................................Farrowing 18. A terrifying experience might also be described as...............................................................Harrowing 19. A sudden, sharp pain similar to a pinch is called a....................................................................Twinge 20. A truck that transports your broken down car to a mechanic is doing what..............................Towing Bonus Question: Can participants think of any other words that contain the consecutive letters “WING”? Answer: Bowing, Showing, Plowing, Knowing, Blowing, Unscrewing, Unknowingly Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 28 of 45 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. SONG AND DANCE – TRIVIA Brain Benefits: Music stimulates multiple brain functions including memory and mood. Music also helps different areas of the brain work together simultaneously. So, put on your blue suede shoes and get ready to rock and roll! Instructions: Can participants guess the answers to these 1950s song and dance questions? 1. Who recorded “Rock Around the Clock” in 1955? A) Bill Haley and His Comets B) Elvis Presley and the Jordanaires C) The Beach Boys Answer: A) Bill Haley and His Comets. Bill Haley had several hits before recording this song, including “Shake, Rattle and Roll” and “Mambo Rock.” 2. Which famous song sung by Doris Day was introduced in the 1956 Hitchcock thriller, The Man Who Knew Too Much? A) “Cold, Cold Heart” B) “Que Sera Sera” C) “You Belong to Me” Answer: B) “Que Sera Sera.” This well-known actress, singer, and animal rights activist lived to be 97 years old. 3. Who sang the 1957 hit “Love Letters in the Sand”? A) Pat Boone B) Gene Vincent C) Elvis Presley Answer: A) Pat Boone. Did you know he was born in Jacksonville, FL? 4. What singer had a hit with “Sixteen Tons” in 1955? A) Johnny Cash B) Tennessee Ernie Ford C) Ricky Nelson Answer: B) Tennessee Ernie Ford. The unexpected hit song stayed No. 1 on the charts for ten weeks. 5. “Well you say you’re gonna leave, you know it’s a lie” is a line from which song? A) “Bye, Bye Love” B) “Hard Headed Woman” C) “That’ll Be the Day” Answer: C) “That’ll Be the Day.” Buddy Holly performed this hit song on the Ed Sullivan show in 1957. 6. Which group had a hit with “Twilight Time” in 1958? A) Jan and Dean B) The Platters C) The Beatles Answer: B) The Platters. They were one of the most successful vocal groups of the early rock and roll era. Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 29 of 45 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. SONG AND DANCE – TRIVIA – CONT. 7. Which smooth-voiced singer with impeccable pitch, sang “Too Young” in 1951? A) Nat King Cole B) Perry Como C) Frank Sinatra Answer: A) Nat King Cole. He was not only a great singer, but also a jazz pianist and television and movie actor. 8. Tony and Maria were the lead characters in what Broadway musical that premiered in 1957? A) West Side Story B) Love Is A Many-Splendored Thing C) South Pacific Answer: A) West Side Story. The 1957 Broadway musical was made into a movie in 1961 and became the second highest grossing film of the year. 9. The Fontane Sisters had 11 songs in the top 40 of the Billboard Top 100 from 1955 to 1958. What was the name of their only number one song? A) “Hearts of Stone” B) “Do the Mashed Potato” C) “Rockin Robin Answer: A) “Hearts of Stone.” The Fontane sisters were Bea, Marge, and Geri. They retired in the early 1960s and led their own private lives. 10. The Everly Brothers popularized the song, “Wake Up Little Susie.” Where had Susie fallen asleep? A) Her boyfriend’s house B) The drive-in movie C) Her grandmother’s living room Answer: B) The drive-in movie. Other Everly Brothers hits include “Bye Bye Love,” “All I Have to Do is Dream,” and “When Will I Be Loved”. 11. The Coasters recorded a song in 1959 with the line "You're gonna need an ocean of Calamine lotion." What is the name of the song? A) “Poison Ivy” B) “Hay Fever” C) “Sunburn” Answer: A) “Poison Ivy.” This recording was The Coasters’ third top-ten hit of 1959. 12. B.J. Thomas sang “I Can’t Help It If I’m Still in Love with You” in 1967. Who first recorded it in 1951? A) Nat King Cole B) Tony Bennett C) Hank Williams, Sr. Answer: C) Hank Williams, Sr. He was born with spina bifida which gave him constant pain and led to his drug and alcohol abuse, eventually causing his death at the age of 29. Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 30 of 45 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. I START, YOU FINISH Instructions: The following cities have two-word names. Read the first part of each name and ask participants to name the second part. Participants may come up with more answers than are given below. Do the first few as an example. 1. Corpus............................................................................................................Christi 2. Salt Lake.............................................................................................................City 3. Los................................................................................................................Angeles 4. Daytona............................................................................................................Beach 5. Cedar..............................................................................................................Rapids 6. Buenos..............................................................................................................Aires 7. Atlantic...............................................................................................................City 8. Idaho.................................................................................................................Falls 9. Baton...............................................................................................................Rouge 10. San.........................................................................Francisco, Jose, Antonio, Diego 11. Santa......................................................................................................Fe, Domingo 12. Bowling............................................................................................................Green 13. Grand..............................................................................................................Rapids 14. Niagara...............................................................................................................Falls 15. El.........................................................................................................................Paso 16. Green.....................................................................................................................Bay 17. New........................................................................York, Haven, Bedford, Orleans 18. Fort...............................................................Collins, Knox, Worth, Dodge, Wayne 19. Winston.............................................................................................................Salem 20. Colorado..........................................................................................................Springs 21. Jersey....................................................................................................................City 22. Hong...................................................................................................................Kong 23. Long...................................................................................................................Beach 24. Kansas...................................................................................................................City 25. Virginia..............................................................................................................Beach Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 31 of 45 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. I START, YOU FINISH – CONT. Just For Fun.... Some U.S. cities have silly names. Here is a list of 9 of the silliest. Read each city and see if participants can guess the state. Read each fun fact to find out how the city got its silly name. 1. Bangs.............................................................................................................Texas • Named after Sam Bangs, a printer during the Texas Revolution. 2. Truth or Consequences....New Mexico • In 1950 NBC Radio host Ralph Edwards challenged cities to rename themselves after his quiz show. Hot Springs, New Mexico, accepted the challenge and became Truth or Consequences. 3. Dinosaur.... Colorado • Originally called Artesia, the town changed its name in 1966 to capitalize on its proximity to the Dinosaur National Monument. 4. American Fork.....Utah • Named after the American Fork River. 5. Whynot....North Carolina • Legend says that the name came about during a meeting to choose a name for the town. A frustrated community member said, “Why not name the town Whynot and let’s go home?” 6. Ninety Six....South Carolina • This name is a mystery although some believe it once indicated the distance from the closest Cherokee settlement. 7. Cut and Shoot.....Texas • Named after a confrontation that took place in 1912 and almost led to violence. 8. Canadian.....Texas • Named after the Canadian River which is a tributary of the Arkansas River. 9. Popejoy....Iowa • Named after a former resident and landowner named John Popejoy. Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 32 of 45 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. EQUIVALENT LENGTHS 1 foot = 12 inches 1 yard = 36 inches 1 yard = 3 feet 1 mile = 5,280 yard Instructions: Copy the information above on the board. Read each question and have participants refer to the information on the board to find the correct answer. Provide pencil and paper for calculations. 1. How many inches are in 10 feet?.............................................................................120 inches 2. How many feet are in 12 yards?.....................................................................................36 feet 3. How many feet are in 3 miles?................................................................................15,840 feet 4. How many inches are in 3 yards?.............................................................................108 inches 5. How many feet are in 96 inches?.....................................................................................8 feet 6. How many inches are in 4 feet?.................................................................................48 inches 7. One half of a mile is equal to how many feet?..........................................................2,640 feet 8. 144 inches equal how many yards?...............................................................................4 yards 9. How many yards is 60 inches plus 10 feet?..................................................................5 yards 10. How many inches are in 1 foot and 1 yard? ..............................................................48 inches Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 33 of 45 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. What is Neuroplasticity? In biology, the term plasticity refers to an organism’s adaptability to changes in its environment. As children, our brains develop as we encounter higher-level challenges in our socialization and in each successive grade in school. If we encounter a physical or mental setback, some form of therapy, along with our own persistence, usually enables us to overcome the obstacle and continue moving forward. How is that possible? Neurogenesis and neuroplasticity. Neurogenesis is the birth of new neurons in the brain. Neuroplasticity is the activation of those new brain cells. The new cells can take on the information carried by older ones; strengthen existing connections between cells; and even take the place of damaged ones. Brain cells that aren’t being used atrophy and die. Much like spring cleaning, a process called ‘neural pruning’ clears away unused brain cells, and makes room for new ones, but the new ones must be stimulated in order to start working. We do this with curiosity, mental agility exercises, and physical exercise. Boosting our neurons not only improves our memory, but also helps increase learning ability, optimism, and resilience. Today’s activities have been designed to support and strengthen our neuroplasticity. With so much to gain, let’s get started! Sources: 1 Adlaf, E.W., Vaden, R.J., Niver, A.J., Manuel, A.F., Onyilo, V.C., Aruaujo, M.T., et al. (2017). Adult-Born Neurons Modify Excitatory Synaptic Transmission to Existing Neurons. eLife, 2017, 6. DOI: 10.7554/eLife.19886 2 Bergland, Christopher. “How do Neuroplasticity and Neurogenesis Rewire Your Brain?” Psychology Today, February 6, 2017. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-athletes-way/201702/how-do-neuroplasticity-and-neurogenesis-rewire-your-brain Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 34 of 45 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. NEUROPLASTICITY KNOWLEDGE – TRUE OR FALSE QUIZ Brain Benefits: Neuroplasticity is the brain’s amazing ability to reorganize, change, and adapt itself in response to experiences and learning. It also refers to the brain’s ability to compensate and rewire itself due to deficits from illness or injury. The following statements are either true or false representations of information about the brain, neuroplasticity and memory. Instructions: Cut apart the statements below on the dotted line. Fold each statement and put in a bowl or basket. Ask each willing participant to select a strip and read it aloud to the class, allowing the class to determine the answer. Once the answer has been determined, the participant can read the answer and information on the strip. Keep going around the group until all the strips have been read and answered. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- True or False? Attaching a strong emotion to an experience creates a stronger memory and improves access to that memory. Answer: True. Strong emotions cause increased cortisol which leads to increased activity in the area of the brain that forms memories. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- True or False? Over-the-counter herbal supplements don’t interact with prescription medications and can’t harm you. Answer: False. Herbal supplements can render certain medications ineffective or interact with them in dangerous ways. Make sure to consult your pharmacist about possible interactions between any medications and supplements you are taking or are considering taking. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ True or False? Chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes have been linked to cognitive decline. Answer: True. Conditions that disrupt or otherwise negatively affect blood flow or blood chemistry can affect cognitive functions. Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 35 of 45 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ True or False? A mere 1 % decrease in hydration can result in fuzzy thinking and loss of memory. Answer: True. Being mostly made up of water, the brain requires its water levels to be maintained for optimum fitness and functioning. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- True or False? After age 65, we can no longer learn new information or skills. Answer: False. Absolutely false! We can continue learning as long as we are alive. We can continue to facilitate growth and connections in our brain cells every day. The more we exercise our brains by learning new things, the healthier our brains remain. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- True or False? It is easier to become distracted and overwhelmed by information and sensory input as we age. Answer: True. Cutting down on non-essential informational input, focusing on one task at a time, and practicing mindfulness helps to strengthen our attention and improves memory formation, retention, and access. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- True or False? Lack of sleep can result in loss of memory and other cognitive functions. Answer: True. Sleep, like food and water, is fuel for the brain. Both brain and body are repaired and renewed during sleep. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- True or False? Ballroom dancing is one of the best exercises you can do for your brain. Answer: True. Not only is ballroom dancing great cardiovascular exercise but learning the intricate dance steps is an excellent challenge for many parts of the brain, including those involved in memory. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 36 of 45 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- True or False? The brain of an average adult human weighs approximately 8.5 pounds. Answer: False. The average adult brain weighs approximately 3 pounds and contains about 100 billion neurons at any point in time. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- True or False? Neuroplasticity enables your brain to compensate for disease and traumatic injury. Answer: True. New brains cells grown in the hippocampus can take on various jobs as needed. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- True or False? Our diets don’t matter as long as we’re doing mental and physical exercises. Answer: False. There are foods that are bad for your health, such as those that contain trans-fats, and those that are good for your health, such as salmon, avocados, blueberries, and walnuts. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- True or False? Socializing doesn’t affect my brain one way or the other. Answer: False. Socializing has been proven to have emotional, psychological, and even physiological effects on our brains and bodies. Interacting with others stimulates the brain and can help stave off cognitive decline. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- True or False? Dark chocolate and red wine are actually healthy in moderation. Answer: True. Both dark chocolate and red wine contain polyphenols, natural chemicals that increase blood flow and oxygen to the brain. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- True or False? People think approximately between 12,000 and 60,000 new thoughts per day. Answer: False. While we do think approximately between 12,000 and 16,000 thoughts per day, scientists claim that approximately 90% of those thoughts are the same thoughts we had the previous day; very few of them are new. Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 37 of 45 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- True or False? Your brain does not have pain receptors. Answer: True. There are no pain-sensing fibers in the brain, so the brain itself does not feel pain. Bodily pain comes from pain-sensors throughout the body that are transmitted to, and processed by, the brain. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- True or False? Experts believe that short-term memory lasts for approximately 20 to 30 seconds. Answer: True. Information is our short-term memory will quickly disappear unless we make a conscious effort to retain it, and transfer it to our long-term memory. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- True or False? Studies show that we can hold about 15 items in our short-term memory. Answer: False. Studies show that we generally don’t hold more than 7 items at a time in our short-term memory. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- True or False? If I am experiencing memory loss, then I must have Alzheimer’s or some other disease. Answer: False. Many non-medical factors can cause or contribute to memory loss and, depending upon the cause, can be reversed. Medication side effects, drug interactions, dehydration, and malnutrition are just a few of those factors. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 38 of 45 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. WORD OPPOSITES Instructions: This brain stimulating activity can help to boost your cognitive abilities and overall brain power. Holding a word in the mind while thinking of the opposite of that word helps to reinforce and improve sustained mental attentiveness. Facilitators: Write each word on the board one at a time, or read each word out loud clearly. Ask participants to think of the opposite of that word and to call out the answer or raise their hand when they have the answer. Some words may have multiple meanings, so there may be more than one correct answer. 1. Absent - Present 2. Accept - Decline 3. Desperate - Hopeful 4. Always - Never 5. Together - Apart 6. Awake - Asleep 7. Backward - Forward 8. Broad - Narrow 9. Before - After 10. Negative - Affirmative 11. Brave - Cowardly 12. Bright - Dull, Dim 13. Captive - Free 14. Careful - Careless 15. Cheap - Expensive 16. Blunt - Sharp 17. Common - Rare 18. Correct - Incorrect, Wrong 19. Create - Destroy 20. Crooked - Straight 21. Courteous - Discourteous, Rude 22. Dangerous - Safe 23. Compliment - Insult 24. Decrease - Increase 25. Abundance - Lack 26. Disappear - Appear 27. Arrival - Departure 28. Compulsory - Voluntary 29. Expand - Contract 30. Exterior - Interior 31. Amateur - Professional 32. Float - Sink 33. Forget - Remember 34. Fresh - Stale 35. Generous - Stingy 36. Gentle - Rough 37. Important - Trivial 38. Inhale - Exhale 39. Interesting - Boring 40. Ancestor - Descendant 41. Alike - Different 42. Melt - Freeze 43. Complicated - Simple 44. Defeat - Victory 45. Shrink - Grow 46. Start - Finish 47. Vacant - Occupied 48. Export - Import 49. Wide - Narrow 50. Accidental - Intentional Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 39 of 45 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. NEUROPLAST BLAST-OFF – WORKSHEET Instructions: Read each question below and write your answers in the space provided. 1. How much is the sum of the numbers in your date of birth (mm/dd/yyyy)? Ex: 10/14/1930: 10 + 14 + 1930 = 1954 ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ 2. Name three or more objects or animals for every letter in your first name. Ex: TED = T - toad, toaster, tank E - eagle, eraser, envelope D - dog, dictionary, donut ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ 3. Rearrange the words below into meaningful sentences. Example: first president George was the Washington of the U.S.A. Answer: George Washington was the first president of the U.S.A. speak than louder words Actions ________________________________________________________________________ grass the side other The greener on always is ________________________________________________________________________ with and bagel She coffee had cream a ________________________________________________________________________ take in Let’s hike forest the a ________________________________________________________________________ Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 40 of 45 ©2023 St. Johns County Council on Aging, Inc. THINK IT – SPELL IT Brain Benefits: Every time we tackle something challenging, we increase neuroplasticity in our brains. Additionally, our brains benefit from any activity that requires us to stay focused and attentive. Spelling words backwards is not just challenging, it also requires sustained attention and intense concentration. Let’s increase neuroplasticity today with this tricky and challenging exercise. Instructions: Ask willing participants to spell these common words backwards. Start out with the three- letter words and increase the level of difficulty as you progress. 3 - LETTER WORDS Job Zip Zoo Yam Pet Fur Key Jam Mix Bag Ire Own Top Leg 4 - LETTER WORDS Jack Maze Bump Comb Ritz Chef Lazy Jump Quit Wick Camp Chew Tuck Pave 5 - LETTER WORDS Jumpy Jewel Tiger Queen Night Rally Knife Field Blaze Music Chair Juicy Quick Taxes 6 - LETTER WORDS Advice Frizzy Pepper Staple Letter Memory Forest Joyful Caress Timing Clinic Jockey Chunky Agency 7 - LETTER WORDS - MAXIMUM CHALLENGE Account Buzzing Pickles Message Speaker Rooster Similar Lettuce Realist Sterile Rainbow Florida Lottery Tornado Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 41 of 45 Page 42 of 45 IIIIEP l NTEG RATIVE MEMORYENHANCEMENTPROGRAM Five Hour Pro rams Anastasia Baptist Church 1650 A1A S,St Augustine,FL 32080 Tuesday 9:0Oam——2:00pm Fruit Cove Baptist Church 501 State Route 13,St.Johns,FL 32259 Thursday 9:00am-—2:0Opm Ponte Vedra Memory Care Center 1048 A1A N,Ponte Vedra Bch,FL 32082 Tuesday,Wednesday &Thursday 9:00am-2:00pm Two Hour Programs Anastasia Baptist Church 1650 A1A S,St Augustine,FL 32080 Wednesday,10:00am—12:00noon Thursday,10:00am—12:00noon IMEP At Home This condensed version of our Class- room Program allows ?exibility in engaging Brain Boosting Exercises individually or with family and friends. lMEP At Home is ideal for those who are seeking improved Brain Health and Memory Enhancement. Ask about our Zoom Private Coaching and our Weekly E-mail of Brain Activities Call (904)209-3700 to learn more. Pre-Registration Required Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 43 of 45 Page 44 of 45 PRICING GUIDE Option 1 – Subscribership Without Training You will receive a Facilitator’s Guide and a Director’s Guide with your subscription. Each week you will receive an IMEP Classroom Curriculum Lesson that contains enough content to cover 4 hours of classroom instruction. You can receive up to two lessons per week. • One Lesson Per Week: $2600/Year • Two Lessons Per Week: $5200/Year Option 2 – Subscribership With Training You will receive a Facilitator’s Guide and a Director’s Guide with your subscription. Each week you will receive an IMEP Classroom Curriculum Lesson that contains enough content to cover 4 hours of classroom instruction. You can receive up to two lessons per week. In addition, you will receive 40 hours of training from an IMEP Facilitator Trainer. • One Lesson Per Week: $2600/Year • Two Lessons Per Week: $5200/Year • 10 Hours of Training with IMEP Facilitator Trainer: $500 Agenda Item #5.A. 14 Mar 2023 Page 45 of 45