HOBART | Educational presentations, free health screenings and valuable literature will be available to Hobart senior citizens at a health fair from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on May 22 at Ambassador Banquets, 1967 E. 37th Ave.

Sponsored by The Legacy Foundation - Maria Reiner Fund, the fair features a free luncheon, presentations by Hobart Mayor Brian Snedecor and from the staff of the new orthopedic program at St. Mary Medical Center, called The Joint Academy.

Snedecor will discuss the Council on Aging, initiatives being put into place for seniors regarding other Hobart community programs, and the ways senior citizens can provide their input.

The Maria Reiner Fair for Seniors also includes free blood pressure readings; information regarding senior home health care and rehabilitation services. Some screenings are limited in number.

Luncheon seating reservations are being accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. RSVP to Lisa Field at Greeners Apparel by calling (219) 942-5544 or Jenny Lynn at Miller's Merry Manor by calling (219) 942-2170.

From hip surgery to knee replacement, St. Mary Medical Center has received some of the highest marks in the country for joint care provided to patients. St. Mary Medical Center is a recipient of HealthGrades® top rating - five-stars - for overall joint replacement two years in a row, 2007 and 2008. HealthGrades is an independent ratings organization focused on healthcare quality. As an extension of this excellence, St. Mary Medical Center has announced the addition of The Joint Academy, located on the hospital's third floor orthopedic unit at 1500 S. Lake Park Ave. in Hobart.

St. Mary Medical Center healthcare professionals as well as those from other area adult health care providers, will be on hand to answer questions and provide educational materials and helpful information.

The event is an effort by The Legacy Foundation - Maria Reiner Fund to reach out to Hobart seniors to raise awareness on various healthcare issues and promote the importance of early detection.

- For The Times