NAMI Citrus to host virtual Speaker Series
Crystal Medley, certified recovery peer specialist (CRPS), and national business development representative with Recovery Unplugged Behavioral Health, will discuss “Navigating Behavioral Health & Recovery: Understanding Levels of Care.”
This interactive, discussion-based virtual presentation will take place from 6-7 p.m. Monday, June 22, and is open to anyone interested in learning more about behavioral health, recovery and available levels of care for themselves or a loved one.
Through both professional and lived experience, Medley helps individuals and families better understand mental health and substance use treatment options while reducing stigma through education, connection and honest conversation.
NAMI Citrus Inc.will host the presentation as one of many NAMI Citrus Speaker Series offerings. This virtual series is a free service from NAMI Citrus but does require pre-registration for Zoom access. Once registered, attendees will receive a confirmation email with virtual access details.
Knights, parish plan blood drive
The next blood drive for Knights of Columbus Council 6168 and Our Lady of Grace Parish will take place on Saturday, June 20, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the council hall, 2389 W. Norvell Bryant Highway (at the corner of West Pinecone Avenue and County Road 486) in Lecanto.
In addition to the E-gift card and tokens of appreciation, there is a special deluxe hot breakfast planned of chicken and waffles with creamy gravy, scrambled eggs, cheesy grits and a mixed fruit bowl for all donors. Don’t miss this special treat while donating the gift of life to your family, friends and community. If you have any questions, call LifeSouth at 352-527-3061.
Applications open for nursing scholarship
Applications are being accepted now for the 2025 Penny Duteau Nursing Scholarship.
Applicants must be a Citrus County resident and must have been accepted into a recognized school of nursing program (proof is required).
Applications must be completed and returned by July 7 via email to JDuteau28@gmail.com, or mail to: Penny Duteau Nursing Scholarship Fund, 109 S Hunting Lodge Drive, Inverness, FL 34453.
DOH-starts Travel Health Program
The Florida Department of Health in Citrus County (DOH-Citrus) has launched a Travel Health Program, which aims to protect Floridians’ health when they travel out of the country.
After scheduling a consultation, a travel health specialist will advise the traveler about specific diseases and health concerns based on the traveler’s international destinations. The specialist will also provide the traveler with information on how to best protect his or her health.
Travelers must pay for all services, as well as a $100 consultation fee, prior to service. Services are provided by appointment only.
To schedule an appointment, call 352-513-6090.
ABC of Dementia sessions at libraries
Citrus County Libraries will host free ABC of Dementia workshops countywide for 2026.
Remaining scheduled sessions, all from 10 a.m. to noon, include:
Nov. 16 — Coastal Region Library, 8619 W. Crystal St., Crystal RiverJuly 20 and Dec. 21 — Lakes Region Library, 1511 Druid Road, InvernessAug. 24 — Homosassa Public Library, 4100 S. Grandmarch Ave.Sept. 21 — Floral City Library, 8360 E. Orange Ave.Oct. 5 — Central Ridge Library, 425 W. Roosevelt Blvd. Beverly Hills
The workshops, to be conducted by Debbie Selsavage, president of Coping with Dementia LLC, will define Alzheimer’s and dementia, explain how dementia affects individuals, discuss ways to interpret dementia behaviors for better communication and show how compassion and the proper use of voice, approach and appropriate touch can result in more effective and less stressful caregiving.
The workshops are free, open to the public, and people living with dementia are also welcome. Registration is requested because of limited space. To make reservations, call 352-422-3663, or email deb@coping.today.
Qigong: Movement, mindfulness at the library
Are you looking for a way to exercise that’s gentle on your joints and helps quiet your mind? Then Qigong is the perfect practice for you.
Qigong (pronounced “chee-gong”) is an ancient Chinese practice that combines slow, flowing movements with focused breathing and mindfulness. This gentle and restorative practice is designed to promote balance, flexibility and inner calm.
The Discover Qigong class is now available at the Lakes Region Library in Inverness on Thursdays at 11 a.m. Perfect for all fitness levels, this beginner-friendly class is a wonderful way to reduce stress, improve posture and support overall well-being. No special equipment or experience is needed; just be sure to wear comfortable clothing and come ready to relax and move at your own pace.
Library programs are free and open to the public. To register for this program, visit our online calendar at attend.citruslibraries.org/events or call the Lakes Region Library at 352-726-2357. To stay in the know about upcoming programs and events, follow @CitrusLibraries on Facebook and Instagram.
Take tai chi at Whispering Pines
Tai chi is a soft martial art exercise practice done standing and moving the entire body. It helps improve balance and strength. Form consists of continuous soft movements in coordination with breathing.
Join us every Tuesday and Thursday at 9 a.m. for tai chi, and Wednesdays at 9 a.m. for stretching/balance class at the Recreation Building in Whispering Pines City Park, 1700 Forest Drive, Inverness. No class on the first Thursday of each month.
Instructor Linda has been a student of tai chi for over 15 years and instructing for 8 years. There is no fee for the class. No special attire needed. All are welcome. Call Linda at 501-681-3166 for more information.
Scholarship open for women with disabilities
The Margaret Williams “Be the Light” Educational Scholarship for Women with Disabilities is accepting applications.
The scholarship is in honor of Margaret Williams, president of the GFWC Crystal River Woman’s Club (2021-24) and is funded by the “Women Helping Women” Spooky Bingo Fundraiser in 2025.
Applications will be awarded as needed. Requirements for the scholarship application are:
A copy of the training program or school applicant wants to attend.What does the applicant want to do?Applicants must provide a few words about how this scholarship will help.Community service activities in which applicants have participated.Also required is one letter of recommendation.
For information and an application, contact Crystal River Woman’s Club at 352-601-1739. Complete the application with attachments and return it to: Margaret Williams Scholarship Application, 5730 W. Pine Circle, Crystal River, FL 34429.
YMCA offers Art from the Heart
Thanks to funding from Dementia Education Inc., Art from the Heart, a program for families and their loved ones living with dementia, has expanded its program at the Lecanto YMCA site.
The program has been enhanced by 30 minutes for the addition of tai chi or chair yoga for the participants. The program has also added a second day a month at the Lecanto site, along with having it once a month at the Crystal River site.
Art from the Heart, which utilizes art and music as social and therapeutic activity for individuals with dementia and their care partners. For those living with memory issues, music and art have the power to both stimulate and soothe. For those who are caregivers, an afternoon with others who understand lifts the spirit.
Art from the Heart is what we call a “Memory Cafe,” where individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia, along with their care partners, have the opportunity to connect through music and art. This program allows those affected by these diseases to dive into an artistic medium that jogs their memories.
This also is a great program for connecting care partners and provides them with insight and support from one another.
Art from the Heart takes place at:
Citrus Memorial Health Foundation YMCA, 4127 W. Norvell Bryant Highway, Lecanto, on the second Thursday of each month from 2-4:30 p.m. and fourth Thursday of each month from 1-3:30 pm.Crystal River YMCA, SE Seventh Ave., on the first Saturday of each month from 1-3 p.m.
This program is open to the community; you do not have to be a YMCA member to participate. This program is free to all participants.
HPH Hospice seeks community help
HPH Hospice in Lecanto, a Chapters Health affiliate, needs your help. Are you compassionate and caring? There are caregivers who could use the help of someone like you. No one should be alone, and you could help by simply being there. Many opportunities are waiting for you.
You could share your time as a volunteer with a patient at home, an assisted living or skilled nursing facility or make weekly comfort calls to caregivers. Patient volunteers do not provide personal care, only companionship, and will always be in a safe environment.
Currently there is a need for patient facing volunteers in the Homosassa and Inverness areas. At least a year’s commitment is requested, with a minimum of six hours per month and computer access. The process begins with a phone interview, followed by a 10-part online training module for end of life care, and an in-person orientation. This is followed by a background check, fingerprinting and a TB test. HPH Hospice covers the cost for all three. If you are interested, or for more information call 352-359-8373 or email lucass@chaptershealth.org.
Volunteers needed at HCA Florida Citrus Hospital
HCA Florida Citrus Hospital is seeking dedicated volunteers to assist in various positions throughout the Inverness hospital campus. From shuttle drivers to discharge lounge and wayfinding concierge personnel, there are opportunities for individuals to contribute to the smooth operation of the hospital and enhance patient experiences.
Shuttle drivers: reliable individuals with a valid driver’s license to operate shuttle services ensure patients and visitors are transported safely and efficiently between hospital buildings and parking areas.Discharge lounge concierges: friendly and welcoming volunteers in this role provide assistance and support to patients preparing to leave the hospital.Wayfinding concierges: volunteers in this role help guide patients and visitors throughout the hospital, ensuring they reach their destinations promptly and with ease.
Volunteering at HCA Florida Citrus Hospital offers a rewarding opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of patients and their families. For more information or to apply, contact Tequila Fields at Tequila.Fields@HCAhealthcare.com or visit HCAFloridaHealthcare.com to apply online.
Free firearm safety books still available
“Dementia and Firearm Safety,” which retails for $9.95, is still available to Citrus County residents free of charge.
Free books can be obtained at the following firearm dealerships: Back Acre Gun Works, 1621 N. Croft Ave., Inverness – 352-344-9663. Chucks Guns, 4027 N. Lecanto Highway, Beverly Hills – 352-270-8362. Crystal River Cerakote and Arms, 6383 W. Conestoga Drive, Beverly Hills – 352-244-8738. Gold Diggers and Gun Slingers, 2416 State Road 44 W., Inverness – 352-341-4867. HNR Gunworks, 3238 S. Florida Ave., Inverness – 352-503-6285. Mallard’s Gun Store, 7928 W. Gulf to Lake Highway, Crystal River – 352-794-3507. Patriot Sporting Goods, 760 W. Hampshire Blvd., Citrus Springs – 352-527-1205. RPJ Guns LLC, 5392 S. Suncoast Blvd., Homosassa – 352-419-4204. Wyoming Guns, 5987 S. Suncoast Blvd., Homosassa, 352-628-2266.
Books are also available at all Coping with Dementia LLC workshops and educational events (call 352-422-3663) and from National Rifle Association recruiter Rick Wehrheim (call 352-503-6931).
Free dementia workshop available for vets
Coping with Dementia has announced that its ABC of Dementia workshop is available to any nonprofit club or organization that serves U.S. military veterans.
The ABC of Dementia workshop is a two-hour educational event that explains the various causes of dementia, tells families how to get a diagnosis and what to expect after a diagnosis, describes better ways to serve and communicate with a person living with dementia, and ends with a role-play demonstrating the techniques of person-centered compassionate care.
For information or to schedule a workshop, call 352-422-3663 or email deb@coping.today.
Socialize with others at Café Break!
Among the wellness programs offered by Friends of Citrus and the Nature Coast at its Wings Grief Center, 8471 W. Periwinkle Lane (gold building on right) in Homosassa Springs is Café Break!
At Café Break! Anyone grieving or lonely can find a safe place to socialize with others, work puzzles, play games or chat over a cup of coffee and snacks for 2-1/2 hours starting at 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays and at 9 a.m. Thursdays.
For more information or to join this program that follows CDC guidelines, call 352-249-1470.
Salon offers free facial exercise classes
From Head To Toe Salon offers free face lift exercise classes at 9 a.m. every Monday. The salon is at 21 N. Croft Ave. in Inverness.
In this one-hour class, learn to sculpt and revitalize your face with 25 facial exercises that build volume, minimize wrinkles and lift and tone for a more youthful appearance.
Space is limited, so call master esthetician Stephanie Gombrelli at 352-613-6111 to reserve a spot.
Lions Club offers vision care for veterans
Any veterans in Citrus County who cannot afford their eyeglasses or are in need of vision care can contact Inverness Lions Club at 352-560-8741.
The club can help with any vision need. Residency and income requirements apply.
Community centers offer classes
The East Citrus Community Center, 9907 E. Gulf to Lake Highway in Inverness, offers healthy choices on its community class schedule.
Free class in Tai Chi with Adam Tuesday starting at 9:30 a.m.Line Dancing Monday and Wednesday from noon until 2 p.m.
Central Citrus Community Center, 2804 W. Marc Knighton Court, Lecanto
Aerobics: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 8-9 a.m.Yoga: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 9-10 a.m.Chair Yoga: Wednesday at noonTai Chi, Yang Style: Thursday at 8:30 a.m.
For more information, call 352-344-9666.
Free pregnancy testing, sonograms available
Citrus Pregnancy Center is offering free pregnancy testing and free early pregnancy sonograms at both locations: 726 NE U.S. 19 in Crystal River and 3185 E. Thomas St. in Inverness.
For information, call 352-341-5176.
RBOI has supplies for cancer patients
If you are in need of scarfs, wigs, or other helpful items for those going through cancer treatments, call Medical Social Worker Wendy Hall, LCSW, at 352-527-0106. Robert Boissoneault Oncology Institute in Lecanto has a resource room with more than 100 wigs available for free. Stop in the Lecanto office from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday or call to make an appointment.
Medical Social Workers at RBOI will assist individuals needing support through the emotional turmoil caused by cancer with resources, including application for Citrus Aid Cancer Foundation assistance. Many services including Zoom meetings for support and education are available for patients with cancer, and their loved ones. Call 352-527-0106.
Free hearing screening available
Citrus Healing Impaired Program Services (CHIPS) is offering free hearing screenings for Citrus County residents at the old train depot, 109 NE Crystal St. in Crystal River.
Screenings are by appointment only. Low-income hearing aid assistance is available.
To learn more, call Maureen 352-795-5000.