Retirement Living

New retirement community in Harford takes form as Presbyterian Home begins approval process by Pamela Mones, editor

(BEL AIR, January 2004) — Once again seniors seeking a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) here in Harford can keep their fingers crossed and hope that dream will finally come true.

In late November, Presbyterian Home of Maryland got the thumbs-up it needed to pursue its proposal to build a CCRC in Aberdeen when the Harford County and the City of Aberdeen reached an agreement over water issues. "Everybody was very cooperative. I can't say enough good things about [Harford County Executive] Jim Harkins and [Aberdeen Mayor] Doug Wilson. The county and city were very supportive and gave us the guarantee we needed that water would not be an issue," said Susan Shea, executive director of Presbyterian Home of Maryland in Towson. Presbyterian Home had given officials until December 31 to resolve the question of water supply for the CCRC development or they would not proceed with the project. Resolution came at the end of November.

Now that concerns over water is behind them, those involved with the proposal for a CCRC can forge ahead. "There's a long way to go and a lot of hurdles to overcome before we get there, but we want the seniors to know that we are serious about the project," said Ms. Shea, who said Presbyterian Home has been looking to locate a retirement community for the past several years, but settled on Harford County when they saw the property and its potential. They even considered Bainbridge in Cecil County, but after seeing about 20 potential properties in Harford, from Havre de Grace to Fallston, a 136-acre parcel across from the Ripken Stadium was chosen as the location for the planned community called the Village at Carsins Run.

"It's really an exciting area with the Ripken Stadium, the HEAT Center, and being right off the main highway," said Ms. Shea, explaining that concerns over noise and traffic associated with the Ripken property's events was put to rest once they examined all the factors. "I think the HEAT Center brings with it educational opportunities for seniors, and some of the other plans for that area of Aberdeen hold a lot of promise. We are very excited about it."

Although Presbyterian Home already has a CCRC in Towson, Ms. Shea said it is "landlocked," so to expand their mission of serving seniors, the board had to look elsewhere to build. "We will bring the same level of quality and values to seniors in Harford County that we practice here." However residents do not have to be Presbyterian to be accepted into the community, she said.

Ms. Shea explained that they originally looked at the Aberdeen site back in 2000, but at the time there wasn't enough acreage available for what they had envisioned. Since then, more acreage became available, but not all of it will be developed because of wetlands on the property. "We'll plan to have walking paths and such in those [wetlands] areas, because we really want to maintain as much of the natural areas as possible that are there."

Over the past several years, seniors have eagerly sought a CCRC for Harford County, but, for a variety of reasons, none ever came to fruition. Asbury Methodist Village tried for several years to find a site for a CCRC here, but was unsuccessful. Harford Renaissance Village also tried unsuccessfully to get approval for its CCRC proposal, but after spending over $1 million on its feasibility study, it withdrew its application after the Maryland Department of Aging continued to raise questions about the proposal's financial viability.

Several years ago, in an attempt to induce developers of CCRCs to build in Harford County, Harford County even changed its building requirements to make the county more attractive for the construction of a CCRC, but still no CCRC has materialized.

But Susan Shea said Presbyterian Home is committed to proceeding with the process. "This is not an overnight project, and there are a lot of steps to go through and a lot of hurdles to get over, but we are serious about continuing with the process," she said.

One of the chief actions required of any entity proposing a CCRC in Maryland is to complete a marketing and financial analysis that must be approved by the Maryland Department of Aging to ensure the company's financial viability. Also, "before even one brick is laid, we have to have pre-sold 65% of the units," said Ms. Shea.

That means, she said, that not only does Presbyterian Home have to come with a design proposal and amenities that will satisfy seniors, "the seniors have to have the money to buy into the CCRC," she said. "It's really important that seniors understand that they're going to have to pay an entrance fee" and other fees to get into the community. "That's why the marketing studies are the most important part of the project." It's one thing, she said, to have people say they want a CCRC and have the money, "but we have to see it on paper so there's no doubt that seniors in Harford County and surrounding areas can afford to come into the project."

With it being so early in the proposal process, Ms. Shea said she has no idea what the fee structure will look like for seniors to buy into the Village of Carsins Run. She has plans to get three estimates from companies who are experienced in conducting market and financial analyses to determine which company will get the contract to perform the marketing and feasibility studies.

Presently the plan for the first phase of the Village of Carsins Run includes 75 cottages, 125 apartments, 60 assisted living units, and 30 nursing home beds, with an estimated 10 years for the three-phase plan to be completed if the proposal is approved. In addition, Ms. Shea said amenities planned for the community will include "a whole wellness program, beauty shops, and maybe a Starbucks, and a bank," among others. The community will have "a town square feeling," she said, noting that down the road they may even include an adult day care facility. "We'll just have to wait until all the studies are in."

After already conducting a half-dozen informal focus groups with Harford Countians, Ms. Shea said the details and more formal data collection will be in the hands of the marketing specialists. "We want to know what the seniors want to see at the site. Do they want studios, one-bedroom, two-bedrooms, and so on? And we need to know for sure that they will be able to financially support a CCRC here." So far, Presbyterian Home of Maryland has invested about $550,000 in the project and expects to proceed, "unless there's a very good reason not to," she said. "We want people to know we are serious about this project and want to know what they would like to see there."

Travel and Leisure

The Republic of Panama — paradise patiently waiting for discovery by Pamela Mones, editor

(PANAMA CITY, January 2004) — I've recently returned from my second trip to Panama. Having visited a number of tropical paradises, this country holds a unique adventure for the savvy traveler looking to expand his/her horizons.

While Panama is perhaps most famous for the Panama Canal, the Canal is just one of many sites worth visiting when you visit this Central American slice of land situated between Colombia and Costa Rica, with a population of 430,700 in its capital, Panama City, and a total population of just over 2.8 million. Panama is an isthmus, bordered by the Caribbean and the north Pacific Ocean. Just over 6% of the population is age 65 and over, with the majority, roughly 64%, between age 15-64.

While historically Panama has had some instability, primarily due to its former military dictatorship, it was restored to democracy in 1990 after nearly 20 years of dictatorship. Now that the Panama Canal has been returned to the Panamanian government (as of December, 1999) in accordance with the 1977 Panama Canal Treaty, and the country no longer receives the bulk of its income from U.S. control over the Canal, Panama has centered its focus on developing tourism as its major industry post-Noriega. However the Canal continues to bring in revenue for the country, as it remains a vital shortcut to ships.

But there's plenty to do in Panama City without going too far out of town. Hiring a private company or taxi service to explore other parts of the country is worth the modest fee, since driving in the capital can be a treacherous experience for even the most skilled drivers. About $25 U.S. dollars per person can get a private driver to tour parts of the "old city" and a visit to the Panama Canal, timed so you get to see a ship passing through the locks there. Comprised only of stone ruins and the foundations of an earlier time, Old Panama gives visitors a sense of Panama's original structures. Attempts are currently underway to preserve the ruins. Tour options are usually available through the concierge at many of the larger hotels. While the roads are for the most part well-maintained, transit police seem to do little to help monitor traffic along the busiest roadways in the city, so a rental car is recommended only for the bravest in the city.

Panama City at a Glance

With a magnificent skyline rivaling New York City, Panama is a vibrant, sophisticated city that boasts many diverse restaurants, as well as being the venue for the Miss Universe pageant in 1986 and again in 2003, coinciding with Panama's 100th anniversary of its independence from Colombia. An intriguing fact concerning the Miss Universe pageant in 2003 is that the reigning Miss Universe, like her predecessor, is a Panamanian.

Besides being the host to "international beauty," its "favorable" banking practices make Panama an attractive place for the banking industry. Panama City's international banking center was created during the 1970's, with over 70 domestic and international banks currently in operation.

Walking along Balboa Avenue, one of the main streets along the waterfront, gives the visitor a first-hand look at the breadth of buildings and skyscrapers that are rapidly going up throughout the city. A large Metro Center is currently underway at one end of the city.

Hotels

Panama has numerous hotels that fit into just about any budget, depending on where and what you desire in amenities, from swimming pools to fitness centers. Deciding what your budget is and what amenities you prefer will help you plan your stay.

Hotel Continental

In the heart of the main shopping district and banking center, the Hotel Continental is considered a five-star hotel. It's open entry way gives a welcoming feeling to guests, and its check-in counter is conveniently located just beyond the main entrance. A small, comfortable sitting area is available to relax while awaiting friends. The hotel has a small casino a few steps down from the check-in area, and an attractive bar across from check-in. Rates are reasonable, about $89 US per night, and usually includes a complete breakfast buffet. A small swimming pool is in the courtyard that lay just beyond the entry way of the hotel. A very modest fitness room is available for guests of the hotel. Room rates may vary depending on promotions and other variables, so confirm the price before committing.

Miramar Intercontinental

Not to be confused with the Hotel Continental, the Hotel Intercontinental is another five-star hotel, but is the only hotel (at present) that has a waterfront location in Panama City. It is a luxury hotel that has a resort-style outdoor swimming pool, a "fine dining" restaurant on the main level, and a bar and another restaurant on another level in the hotel. A full-scale health-and-fitness service is free for guests of the hotel. Room rates are variable, but a large double ocean-front room costs in the area of $189 US per night. Breakfast is not included.

The Bristol

The Bristol is another top-of-the-line hotel located between the area of the Hotel Continental and the Hotel Intercontinental, but equally convenient to various centers. The restaurant in the hotel offers an intimate dining experience with a "renowned" chef in charge. The rooms range in size and price, and the hotel's outdoor patio is often used for special celebrations and gatherings. A small fitness room is available for guests, and business people have access to business amenities such as conference rooms and Internet access, among others. Rooms are elegant and range from standard to large suites, complete with a private dining room. Rates are very variable, so best to check directly for best rate at the time of travel.

More familiar names like the Marriott, Four Points Sheraton, and Holiday Inn, among others, are also conveniently located in Panama City.

Gamboa Rainforest and Resort

Treating your tastebuds in Panama City

Panama certainly has its share of Spanish-style cuisine, but the diversity of its restaurants offers a dish for just about any palate, from seafood and steak to TGI Fridays, pizza, and MacDonald's. Besides trying the hotels' restaurants, expand the experience to find your very own favorite spot. Among the ones I sampled and would return to are:

Gaucho's Steak House — a traditional steak house with a casual atmosphere and just about any cut of beef you could imagine, made your way.

El Cortijo — comfortable ambience with an international menu featuring seafood and meats. Attractive decor and delicious food.

Siete Mares — a casual dining experience in an intimate setting; the menu selections feature some of the most delicious seafood choices imaginable. Highly recommended.

La Casa del Marisco — Well-respected Panamanian chef Acha creates some of the most delicious marisco (seafood) dishes. The green mussels in a green sauce appetizer, and the fish in green sauce, were outstanding.

Ozone — A delightful place for lunch. And quite reasonably priced. Highly recommended.

The Bristol — The restaurant in The Bristol hotel serves fine dining in an intimate and upscale atmosphere. Reasonably priced, the restaurant boasts a world-renowned chef.

Located nearby is the Panama Canal Museum, which creates haute cuisine that is not only a feast for the eye, but a delight to the discerning palate.

Cafe Sante — A small, very informal cafe that has some of the best food despite its otherwise simple surroundings. Get there a little ahead of the lunch crowd that seems to pour in just after noon to partake of the assortment of dishes featured on the menu.

Panama La Vieja (Old Panama)

Old Panama, or Panama La Vieja, was the first settlement on the Pacific shores of the American continent, founded on Aug. 15, 1519. The narrow cobblestone alleys and brick streets lined with beautiful architectural buildings create a charming scene where visitors can stroll and glimpse the distant skyline of new Panamma City. While much restoration is being done in sections of the Old Quarter, cafes and museums are open to the public. In addition, the Presidential Palace and the Mayor of Panama's home are located in the Old Quarter. Plan to spend a couple of hours at least in the Old Quarter, as there are other attractions to discover. Investors are gradually restoring the homes and structures, and the area may be one of Panama's most desirable locations in the near future.

The Canal Zone

The Panama Canal, dubbed by some as "the eighth Wonder of the World," was successfully completed and inaugurated on Aug. 15, 1914, after the U.S. took over the project from the French in 1903 when Viscount Ferdinand de Lesseps, who built the Suez Canal, was defeated in the venture by "forces of nature and the misfortunes of his Universal Canal Company." Large vessels complete the journey through the canal's Miraflores, Pedro Miguel and Gatun locks in an average of eight to 10 hours. An estimated 15,000 vessels travel through the Canal every year, a distance of about 50 miles. Lake Gatun, which replenishes the canal, thanks to the country's rainfall, has been regarded by some as an attractive cruise destination because of its numerous species of birds and lush rainforests. Before visiting the Canal, find out through the hotel services or the Panama Canal Authority when ships are scheduled to pass through the Canal, so you can view the rise and fall of the vessel via the lock system. Also, local travel agents and tour guides often can check on the times and thus schedule a tour of the areas around Panama to coincide with the Canal vessels.

Despite this active agenda and the visual treats in store for your in Panama City and its surrounding neighborhoods, much of Panama remains to be discovered. The beaches on the Pacific and Caribbean sides, as well as the inland towns of David at the far west of the country, the islands of the archipelago, the duty free zone of Colon north of Panama City, and the quaint island and growing tourist region of Bocas Del Toro, and the proposed retirement haven across the water from Bocas Town — Isla Solarte, currently under development by a California-based developer, Shepard Johnson and his partner, Monte Watson.

For golfers, the Coronado Hotel and Resort promises an experience all its own. Home to the Panama Open and one of the destinations of the Canadian Tour, the course is nearly 7,000 yards long, and Diablo 13th is reportedly the most famous hole on the golf course. Check it out at www.coronadoresort.com.

Getting There

Several airlines, including Continental, US Airways and American Airlines, among others, fly to Panama City's Tocumen Airport via a change, usually in Miami, from BWI Airport and Philadelphia. Some direct flights may be available, so be sure to ask. Total flight time is about five hours. Tocumen Airport is about a $20 to $25 taxi ride to downtown Panama City and most hotels in the area. You will need a valid passport and a tourist visa card, which you get at the airport in Panama for a cost of $5 per person. You will need that to get in and out of Panama. A $20 per person exit fee is also assessed on tourists, which is paid at the airport.

For comments or questions, please contact the editor of Prime Times at pmones@cpc.chespub.com.

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