MEDIA ADVISORY

U.S. SENIORS COMMISSION ANNOUNCES BALTIMORE HEARING
TO STUDY LOCAL PROGRAMS FOR SENIORS

The Commission on Affordable Housing and Health Facility Needs for Seniors in the 21st Century - "the Seniors Commission" - will hold its only Mid-Atlantic region field hearing in Baltimore on Monday, March 11, 2002 at Charlestown, an Erickson Retirement Community, 701 Maiden Choice Lane, Baltimore, MD. In addition to examining local programs and services for seniors, the Seniors Commission will hear from a panel of expert witnesses and government officials as part of its effort to develop better coordination of federal government policies and programs designed to help older Americans. Witnesses before the commission will include:

• Congressman Elijah Cummings (D-MD)
• Patrick Brady, Citizens for Long Term Care
• Earl Armiger, National Association of Homebuilders

The field hearing will be open to the public and will feature an open forum session in which concerned Marylanders can speak directly to the commissioners.

The Seniors Commission was created by an act of Congress to study and report back to the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate on the housing and health needs for the next generation of older Americans. The Commission is empowered to offer specific policy and legislative recommendations to increase affordable housing options and improve health-related services for seniors now and as the Baby Boom generation reaches retirement age.

What:		Seniors Commission Facility Tour and Field Hearing
When:		Monday, March 11, 2002 9:15 am -- Facility Tour/Meetings with Residents 9:45 am - Field Hearing
Where:		Conference Center at Charlestown, an Erickson Retirement Community 701 Maiden Choice Lane, Baltimore, MD
Contact:		Jon Hymes or Kim Brock at (202) 408-0808 or www.seniorscommission.gov