February 2019 | Baltimore Beacon

FREE

I N

F O C U S

VOL.16, NO.2

F O R

P E O P L E

OV E R

More than 125,000 readers throughout Greater Baltimore

When a DNA test surprises you

Tracking down the facts What Gordon eventually learned from contacting his other close matches was that his biological father had been a sperm donor while a medical student at Johns Hopkins, and Gordon was the result of an artificial insemination because of infertility issues.

Since learning this on Sept. 24 — “I’ll never forget the date!” he said — Gordon has found that his biological father eventually moved to Texas, married and had four sons, all of whom are also now physicians.

Gordon has been in touch with one of his half-brothers, who welcomed him warmly. They look forward to meeting.

There is also a half-sister Gordon has spoken to but not yet met, and his sister has found a half-brother as well.

“It’s been a real revelation,” said Gor-

FEBRUARY 2019

I N S I D E …

PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER MYER

By Carol Sorgen “I always felt like I didn’t fit in with my family,” said Steve Gordon, who sometimes wondered why he didn’t look like his sister. But after all, not all siblings look alike, so he didn’t dwell on it.

But when his sister took a DNA test last year to find out where their ancestors had come from, she was intrigued to find out that it showed only a 50 percent European Jewish background.

“We were raised in a Jewish family so we assumed it would be a higher percentage,” said Gordon. So he decided to take the test as well to compare findings.

Gordon found out that he and his sister shared the same Jewish ethnicity, but that he also had a strong Scottish/Irish/English component that his sister did not share.

The bottom line was that Gordon and his sister were not full siblings. “When I found out that we had different fathers, I felt like I was living in the Twilight Zone,” said Gordon, who is 70 and lives in Baltimore City.

He and his sister both used AncestryDNA, one of several online DNA testing companies. For around $100, the company analyzes the DNA in a sample of your saliva and matches the results to those from more than 10 million others who have taken the test to locate those likely related to you. The report may also indicate which region(s) of the world your ancestors most likely came from, their ethnicities, and an approximate time table of migrations.

5 0

L E I S U R E & T R AV E L

Cruises today are tailored for almost any interest; plus, exploring the world as a roving retiree, and hiring help to ease travel page 23

ARTS & STYLE

After taking a DNA test, Steve Gordon discovered at the age of 70 that he and his sister had different fathers. As DNA tests become more inexpensive and popular, people increasingly find that a lifetime of identity can be turned on its head. DNA testing companies now train their customer service employees to help deal with the possible emotional fallout of these discoveries.

don, who finally now knows where his green eyes and fair complexion come from.

While such information can rock one’s foundation, Gordon doesn’t see it that way.

“It’s nice to have new relatives,” he said, though admitting that it took a while to get over the shock and the new reality of what his background is.

His advice to others is to go into DNA testing with an open mind. “Don’t be surprised if something turns up that you weren’t expecting,” he said. “Be prepared for anything.”

Parentage revealed Well-known author Dani Shapiro had a similar surprise when she took her DNA

test. The author of the newly released book, Inheritance: A Memoir of Genealogy, Paternity, and Love, writes in Time magazine that when her husband asked if she wanted to take a DNA test, her initial response was, pretty much, why bother?

“I could easily have said no,” she writes.

“I wasn’t curious about my ancestry. I knew where I came from — Eastern European Ashkenazi Jews on both my parents’ sides.

“Instead, I said yes. Why not? It seemed like a game, like those personality tests people often take online.

“The results, when I received them a few See DNA TESTS, page 12

Lewis Museum celebrates prolific African American artist Romare Bearden; plus, a jewelry designer’s fusion of color and geometry, and Julia Roberts on acting at 50+ page 27

TECHNOLOGY k Foldable phones and more

3

FITNESS & HEALTH 6 k Acupuncture has many uses k Do hip/knee replacements last?

LAW & MONEY 17 k Brighten portfolio with utilities k Understanding market trends ADVERTISER DIRECTORY

31

PLUS CROSSWORD, BEACON BITS, CLASSIFIEDS & MORE

2

FEBRUARY 2019 — BALTIMORE BEACON

More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Being innovative It turns out that the ear’s cartilage is espeIn December, I attended a national conference that highlighted the latest innova- cially sensitive to signals from our brain and heart. That apparently makes it tions in products and servicpossible to combine with a es for older adults. hearing aid the functions of a Attendees represented fitness tracker (such as Fitbit, companies large and small, Apple Watch, etc.), focusing on start-ups and long-estabheart and brain health. lished brands, as well as reStarkey is also incorporatsearch institutes and associaing fall-detection technology tions like AARP and the Nathat can notify emergency tional Council on the Aging. contacts if the wearer has a seI came away excited about what I learned, and energized rious fall, and will soon have the ability to translate foreign by the creative technologies FROM THE languages into English when and solutions some of these PUBLISHER companies are developing.

By Stuart P. Rosenthal the wearer is communicating with non-English speakers.

I also spoke on a media Virtual empathy: Virtual reality (VR) panel at the conference about publications like the Beacon, and apparently interested goggles have become popular with those some of these companies in our readers. who play simulation games and like to beSo don’t be surprised if you see some of come “part of the action.”

But there are many other potential uses these products advertised in this and fufor VR. One company, Embodied Labs, has ture issues.

I hasten to add, however, that no one developed programs that help caregivers paid for any mention in this column. I am and family members understand better what sharing this info because I really think a person with conditions like Alzheimer’s or low vision is experiencing, or even what it’s you’ll be as intrigued as I was.

More than a hearing aid: Starkey like being told you have a terminal condition.

When you put on the goggles, you can see Hearing Technologies is adding onto a new line of digital hearing aids a number the world in the way such a person does. The of other services of interest to older adults. idea is to help develop more empathy in

Beacon The

I N

F O C U S

F O R

P E O P L E

O V E R

5 0

The Beacon is a monthly newspaper dedicated to inform, serve, and entertain the citizens of the Greater Baltimore area, and is privately owned. Other editions serve Howard County, Md., Greater Washington, DC and Richmond, Va. (Fifty Plus).

Subscriptions are available via third-class mail ($12), prepaid with order. Maryland residents add 6 percent for sales tax. Send subscription order to the office listed below.

Publication of advertising contained herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement. Signed columns represent the opinions of the writers, and not necessarily the opinion of the publisher.

• Publisher/Editor ....................Stuart P. Rosenthal • Associate Publisher ..............Judith K. Rosenthal • Vice President, Operations........Gordon Hasenei • Vice President, Sales & Marketing ....Alan Spiegel • Managing Editor............................Barbara Ruben • Art Director ........................................Kyle Gregory • Director of Operations ........................Roger King • Advertising Representatives .................................. ................................Barbara Koscielski, Steve Levin • Editorial Assistant ..............................PJ Feinstein

The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915 (410) 248-9101 • Email: info@thebeaconnewspapers.com Submissions: The Beacon welcomes reader contributions. Deadline for editorial is the 1st of the month preceding the month of publication. Deadline for ads is the 1st of the month preceding the month of publication. See page 31 for classified advertising details. Please mail or email all submissions. © Copyright 2019 The Beacon Newspapers, Inc.

those caring for people with these conditions.

Singing to restore speech: We sing using different parts of our brain than when we speak. So the inventors of SingFit wondered if music therapy might restore communication better than speech therapy for those who lose the ability to speak due to a stroke or other brain injury.

Indeed, that seems to be the case, at least in many situations. SingFit’s online program uses song lyrics and melody to help stroke patients regain their ability to communicate.

It also is said to reduce anxiety and behavior problems among Alzheimer’s patients.

The program has proven so successful that Sunrise Senior Living has now introduced it into all of their assisted living communities.

Home matchmaking service: Another service, Silvernest.com, matches homeowners (mostly older adults with room to spare, perhaps also with the desire to have companionship and help around the house) with potential housemates.

After completing a survey (as on a dating site), the service matches homeowners with housing seekers and enables the parties to work out an agreement.

Comprehensive background checks, as well as help with legal documents, automatic rent payments, and coping with disputes, are also available through the site.

It’s a nationwide service that started out west and is just getting started in this part of the country. They’re offering Beacon readers a half-price discount with the code BEACON50.

When you’d rather not talk about it... Another online company has been growing rapidly by offering those who require incontinence products a simple, dis-

creet way to order supplies online.

No one wants to fill their shopping cart with these items, or have a big, colorful box delivered to their door announcing what’s inside.

So a company called Because ships their own product line to customers in plain packaging. They claim that their incontinence products are more absorbent, more comfortable, and a better value than the competition’s.

In addition, potential customers can try out their products free of charge to decide whether they want to get monthly deliveries. You’ll see their ads inside with info on the free trial.

I attend conferences like this both to keep abreast of the latest products and services, and to encourage new companies to consider advertising in print media like the Beacon.

So many companies and advertising agencies these days believe “print is dead” and are cutting back or eliminating their print advertising.

I tell them as often as I’m able that our readers are alive and well, that they love to read print (especially the Beacon!), and that high-tech companies should advertise in and support such publications to reach the folks most interested in their products and services.

I hope you agree with me and find these companies interesting and potentially useful to you. When you patronize a Beacon advertiser, or tell an advertiser that you saw their ad in our paper, it really makes a difference!

Letters to the editor Readers are encouraged to share their opinion on any matter addressed in the Beacon as well as on political and social issues of the day.

Mail your Letter to the Editor to The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915, or e-mail to barbara@thebeaconnewspapers.com.

Please include your name, address and telephone number for verification.

Dear Editor: I’m writing in response to F. Kenneth Buraczynsi’s letter in the January issue regarding exposure to marijuana smoke. I have been exposed to toxic fumes from a burning substance as well. The strong, overbearing odor is coming from a neighbor living in close proximity to my apartment.

I became very sick a year ago with the sudden onset of extreme nausea, headaches and weight loss. This was at the same time strong fumes were coming into my apartment. I’m 78 years old and suffer from asthma. I’m otherwise very healthy for my age.

Ongoing visits have been made to my doctor, and for several tests he requested to find the reason my health has deteriorated. It was determined the cause is constant exposure to these fumes.

This complaint was reported to the rental office on several occasions. According to

the lease, this is a provision violation. I requested a mediation meeting to have the tenant refrain from whatever is being used to permeate the strong odor. The property manager declined to attend and stated to me, “Maybe you just don’t like the smell.”

Following two letters given to the office from my doctor confirming the cause of my illness, I received a letter from the complex that I could move, but the complex would financially penalize me. I’m a senior and cannot afford to move at this time.

Mr. Buraczynski stated in his letter, “Even the police know these odors have cancer-causing compounds.” I too am a victim. For someone to affect another’s health, is this right, moral, or is it criminal?

I hope Mr. Buraczynski sees my response to his letter and knows he’s not alone!

Beverly Grossman Nottingham

BALTIMORE BEACON — FEBRUARY 2019

Say you saw it in the Beacon

3

Technology &

Innovations Tech aims to make disabilities disappear

By Danica Kirka Hadeel Ayoub slips a black glove onto her hand before beginning the swish of sign language that is meaningless to the untrained observer.

Then she pushes a button on her wrist, and a small speaker relays the message her hand drew in the air: “Let’s Dance!”

“My dream is to give a voice to those who can’t speak,” said the 36-year-old inventor who is developing her BrightSign glove while working toward a Ph.D. in assistive technology at Goldsmiths, University of London.

Ayoub’s glove is just one example of a bigger trend as entrepreneurs, startups and companies like Microsoft and Google

try to harness the power of artificial intelligence to make life easier for people with disabilities.

The initiatives come as the World Health Organization estimates that the number of people needing assistive devices — ranging from wheelchairs to communication technologies — will double to 2 billion by 2050.

Improvements in artificial intelligence, combined with the decreasing cost of hardware, are making it possible for inventors to develop new products without the need for the deep pockets of governments or corporations.

With the help of 3D printers and the increased processing power of home computers, they are creating devices designed

HAD A STROKE? TROUBLE SPEAKING?

THE SNYDER CENTER FOR APHASIA LIFE ENHANCEMENT A PROGRAM OF

THE LEAGUE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

WE SPECIALIZE IN CARING FOR

STROKE SURVIVORS WITH COMMUNICATION DIFFICULTIES

SUPPORT & TRAINING FOR FAMILIES 410.323.1777 - WWW.SCALEBALTIMORE.ORG

for people with motor, vision, hearing and cognitive impairments.

Supporting innovation Microsoft and Google are trying to spur work in this area, offering a total of $45 million in grants to developers of assistive technologies. Microsoft said it hopes to identify promising projects that can eventually be incorporated into widely available services.

“We’re certainly seeing an explosion of new technology that is looking to support people with disabilities,” said Zvika Krieger, head of technology policy and partnerships at the World Economic Forum. “There are a lot of innovators out there.”

While Ayoub hopes her efforts pay off financially, she said she is driven by a desire to create a world where disabilities become meaningless. Based in Britain, she is trying to raise 1 million pounds to bring BrightSign to the market, estimating her gloves will cost “a few hundred dollars” each, compared with $2,000 or more for existing technology.

“My dream for BrightSign is to be the extension of the senses for the people... who want to voice their feelings and opinions without having to always look for someone to help them out — to give them the independence that they need and control over See DISABILITY TECH, page 4

4

Technology & Innovations | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Disability tech From page 3 their own communication,” she said.

The need for such products is only going to increase as the world’s population ages, increasing the number of people with physical, cognitive, vision and hearing problems, according to a WHO report published last year.

The challenge is to develop new technologies while also increasing the availability of simple devices like spectacles and wheelchairs that many people can’t afford.

For the visually impaired Companies are starting to recognize the financial potential of the market, as these innovations can improve products sold more widely, said Hector Minto, who has the unusual title of “accessibility evangelist” at Microsoft.

For example, Microsoft last year launched its free Seeing AI app, which turns a smartphone into a “talking camera” that helps visually impaired people do things like scan and read aloud text, recognize faces, and identify product bar codes.

Similar technology goes into the company’s text Translator service, which costs

FEBRUARY 2019 — BALTIMORE BEACON

businesses $10 to $45,000 a month, depending on the number of transactions.

“Absolutely I think there’s a unique business case on its own, but definitely there’s a much larger business case for Microsoft in that the tools of the future quite often will come through a disability lens,” he said.

It’s important to remember that all of us have impairments at times, said Robin Christopherson, head of digital inclusion at the British charity AbilityNet, which helps older people and those with disabilities use computers.

He explains it like this: a person with perfect sight might have a visual impairment when trying to read a smartphone in bright sunlight, or a person with perfect hearing can struggle to understand a phone call when on the street outside.

As a result, technology that helps people with permanent vision or hearing problems also makes products better for everyone. In the past five years, AbilityNet’s team of experts who test products to ensure they work well for those with disabilities has grown from six people to 22.

Innovation has not yet produced products good enough to offer complete freedom for the impaired, said Tom Kamber, executive director of Brooklyn-based Older Adults Technology Services, a nonprofit that helps seniors use technology.

But there is reason for optimism because investors are actively looking for the next big thing in technology, he said.

“There’s no shortage of people in Silicon Valley that will take your call,” Kamber said. “The sector has advanced to the point that a lot of money is going to be made.”

Innovating existing tech The Holy Grail is for such technology to be integrated into off-the-shelf products, so people with disabilities can get the help they need without extra cost, said Christopherson, who is blind. He cited the iPhone, which allowed him to swap a backpack full of equipment and cables for one device.

And then there’s the opportunity for technology to help people with impairments experience the world in completely different ways.

Ford Motor Co. worked with the Aedo Project, an Italian startup, to create a device that helps blind people “feel the view” outside a car window by turning light into vibrations that, when combined with audio description, convey a sense of the scenery passing by.

While the technology is only in the prototype stage, one blind man who worked on the project described his amazement when he tried out the device for the first time.

“My first sensation when my finger went from the mountain to the sky felt like I had ended up in cream, something milky, something soft,” Antonio Bruni said.

“They told me: These were clouds.”

— AP

BEACON BITS

Jan. 29

TABLET TRAINING Begin your new year with learning something new. Tablets will be

provided by the Catonsville Senior Center for this class where you will learn basic set-up, connecting to Wi-Fi, downloading apps and more. The class will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 29 at 10 a.m. The center is located at 501 N. Rolling Rd. Call (410) 885-0900 to register by Jan. 25 or register at the front desk.

5

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Technology & Innovations

BALTIMORE BEACON — FEBRUARY 2019

Foldable phones: A tablet in your pocket

F R E E ★ I N F O R M AT I O N

(see ad on page 18) ❏ Virginia Towers (see ad on page 20) ❏ Warren Place Senior Apartments (see ad on page 25) ❏ Westminster House Apartments (see ad on page 11)

I N F O R M AT I O N

F R E E

Health Study Volunteers ❏ COPD Study (see ad on page 14) ❏ Cancer, Insomnia, and Weight Loss Study

★

(see article on page 14) ❏ Exercise/Weight Loss & Leg Pain Study (see ad on page 15) ❏ Gout Study (see ad on page 15) ❏ Knee Osteoarthritis Study (see ad on page 15) ❏ Vitamin D/Sturdy Study (see ad on page 14)

City_________________________________________State__________Zip____________________ Phone (day)_____________________________(evening)_____________________________ E-mail_____________________________________________________________________________

Check the boxes you’re interested in and return this form to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915 or fax to (410) 248-9102.

I N F O R M AT I O N

Address__________________________________________________________________________

F R E E

Name_____________________________________________________________________________

✃

❏ Alta at Regency Crest (see ad on page 4) ❏ Charlestown (see ad on page 8) ❏ Christ Church Harbor Apts. (see ad on page 18) ❏ Glynn Taff Assisted Living (see ad on page 21) ❏ Linden Park Apts. (see ad on page 21) ❏ Oak Crest (see ad on page 8) ❏ Park Heights Place (see ad on page 26) ❏ Park View Laurel (see ad on page 26) ❏ Park View Towson (see ad on page 26) ❏ Park View Fullerton (see ad on page 26) ❏ Park View Rosedale (see ad on page 26) ❏ St. Mary’s Roland View Towers

F R E E

★

Housing Communities

★

I N F O R M AT I O N

For free materials on housing communities and health studies, just complete and clip this coupon and mail or fax it to the Beacon.

BB2/19

F R E E

MAIL OR FAX FOR FREE INFORMATION

I N F O R M AT I O N

I N F O R M AT I O N

★

F R E E

I N F O R M AT I O N

★ FREE INFORMATION ★ FREE INFORMATION ★ FREE INFORMATION ★

F R E E ★

FREE INFORMATION ★ FREE INFORMATION ★ FREE INFORMATION ★

But it’s not clear whether flexible-screen phones will have mass appeal, especially when the bendy devices are expected to cost more than $1,000.

Royole Corp., a small Silicon Valley company, is hoping to sell early versions of its FlexPai foldable-screen phone for $1,300 to $1,500 once it comes to the U.S. later this year. For now, it just became available in China in December at a price equivalent to about $1,300.

The company says it provides a tabletsized 7.8” color display unfolded, but folds 180 degrees to fit in a pocket. The flexible screen also won’t break when dropped.

While the idea of a device being able to bend into different shapes may sound good, IDC analyst Ramon Llamas is skeptical about how practical and durable they will be.

One of the biggest questions is whether the quality of the screens will degrade as they get repeatedly folded. “Are people really going to want to watch a Netflix show

Google’s Android software are expected to be available, too. Huawei confirmed last month that it is working on a phone with a flexible screen.

— AP

★

In an indication of how difficult it is to make a flexible screen that’s also durable, Samsung first announced plans to build a folding-screen phone five years ago. It wasn’t until late 2018, though, that Samsung finally provided a glimpse at what it’s been working on.

“We have been living in a world where the size of a screen could only be as large as the device itself,’’ said Justin Denison, Samsung’s senior vice president of mobile product marketing. “We have just entered a new dimension.”

Except for a fleeting look at a device he held in a hand, Denison provided scant information about the phone. Samsung says it will be ready to hit the market at some

Useful, but costly

on these devices if there is a crease down the middle of it?’’ Llamas said.

Royole said its FlexPai can be bent more than 200,000 times without deteriorating.

Other foldable-screen phones running

I N F O R M AT I O N

Not easy to make

point this year.

Smartphone makers are looking for something to excite consumers as they replace phones less often because new models are pricey and aren’t that much different from their predecessors beyond slightly better cameras and batteries.

That’s the main reason worldwide smartphone sales have fallen from the previous year for four consecutive quarters, according to IDC. Add it all up, and smartphone sales declined by 4 percent during the 12 months ending in September.

Samsung, the world’s leading seller of smartphones, suffered a 7 percent decline in shipments during that period, based on IDC’s calculations.

F R E E

By Michael Liedtke For the past few years, the smartphone industry has been searching for a breakthrough to revive a market mired in an innovation lull and a sales slump. A potential catalyst is on the horizon in the form of flexible screens that can be folded in half without breaking.

Samsung and several rivals are preparing to roll out such screens to make devices more versatile for work and pleasure.

The foldable screens could increase display space to the size of a mini-tablet, but fold like a wallet so they revert to the size of regular phones. But there are questions about price and durability.

If the new phones fulfill their makers’ ambitions, they will become a leap ahead for an industry whose origins can be traced to the old flip phones that consumers once embraced as cool and convenient. Foldable-screen phones, though, won’t need hinges because they have continuous displays that can bend.

6

FEBRUARY 2019 — BALTIMORE BEACON

More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Health Fitness &

UNDER OBSERVATION? Have you been “admitted” to the hospital or are you just being “observed?”

MANAGING INCONTINENCE Steps to stop leakage without medication, from exercise to fluid intake GOT MILK (OR SOY)?

Dairy products provide important nutrients, but so do many substitutes CANCER, INSOMNIA AND WEIGHT A study of breast cancer patients will evaluate sleep and weight issues

When considering hip or knee replacement

By Dr. Robert M. Shmerling How long will a hip or knee replacement last? For people considering this type of surgery, it’s something they want — and need — to know.

In the U.S. alone, surgeons perform more than 600,000 knee replacements and about 330,000 hip replacements each year.

These operations can provide a major improvement in quality of life and function for those with severe arthritis.

On the other hand, there are risks associated with the operation (as is true for any major surgery), there is a long road to recovery even when all goes well, and these operations aren’t cheap.

For knee replacement surgery alone, an estimated $9 billion or more is spent each year in the U.S. (although economic analyses suggest the surgery may actually be cost-saving over the long run).

So, if the first joint replacement is unsuccessful for some reason (such as infection or loosening), a second (or even third) operation may be necessary.

And that’s a big deal, especially since “revision surgery” is technically more difficult, recovery can take longer, and success

rates may be lower than first operations.

There’s no guarantee Unfortunately, no one can be sure that a hip or knee replacement will be the last operation needed on that joint. No operation is 100 percent successful, and nothing lasts forever.

In addition, a number of factors — including surgical technique and surgeon experience, how many operations a particular hospital or surgeon performs each year, and patient factors (including age, weight and activity level) — can all have powerful effects on how long a replaced joint lasts.

But we do have an idea of how long a joint replacement will last based on data from past surgeries. During my training in the 1980s and 1990s, the teaching was that up to 90 percent or more of hip or knee replacements would last at least 10 to 15 years. We still quote similar numbers. But it might be better than that.

With better preparation prior to surgery (including “prehab” exercise and loss of excess weight), improved materials in the replacement, better surgical techniques and anesthesia, and better physical rehabilita-

SUPPORTS&AND& PROMOTES* Healthy Hair

Healthy Nails

Healthy Joints

Healthy Skin

$

40

MSRP $57.20 (30 servings)

More than 30% off. Price good until February 15, 2019.

2060A York Road, Timonium 443-484-8600 | curiowellness.com Monday – Saturday 10AM – 7PM

tion after surgery, your joint replacement of the knee or hip is more likely to be successful and last the rest of your life than ever before. At least we hope that’s the case.

Good data hard to find It’s difficult to predict how long a joint replacement will last for several reasons.

One is that it can take a decade or more to collect data on past operations to predict the success of future operations.

Another challenge is that, in recent years, there’s been a tendency to operate on younger people, including baby boomers, who are more active in their 50s and 60s and may expect more of their new joints than prior generations.

Age is of particular importance, because a person with a life expectancy of 15 years has a much better chance of avoiding a future operation than a person with a life expectancy of 30 years. In addition, younger patients tend to be more active and put more stress on their new joint.

For these reasons, some surgeons advise younger patients to put off surgery as long as possible, even if that means suffering with pain, stiffness and reduced mobility.

New hip and knee data A recent study examined how long knee or hip replacements last, and how their durability is affected by the person’s age at the time of surgery. As published in the April 2017 edition of the medical journal The Lancet, researchers found that: — Among more than 60,000 people who had a hip replacement, only 4.4 percent required revision surgery in the first 10 years after surgery, but by the 20-year mark, 15 percent required revision.

— Among nearly 55,000 people who had a knee replacement, only 3.9 percent required revision surgery within 10 years of surgery; by 20 years, 10.3 percent required revision.

— Age did matter. Of those over 70 having hip or knee replacement, the lifetime risk of having a second operation on the replaced joint was about 5 percent. But this risk was much greater in younger individuals, especially for men. Up to 35 percent of men in their early 50s required a second operation.

Some orthopedic surgeons might scoff at these findings and say, “My patients do See JOINT REPLACEMENT, page 7

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

BALTIMORE BEACON — FEBRUARY 2019

7

Acupuncture can treat many conditions Dear Mayo Clinic: I started chemotherapy last month, and my healthcare provider suggested I tr y acupuncture for nausea. How does acupuncture work? Is there any risk to trying it?

Answer: Traditional Chinese medicine, including acupuncture, dates back more than 2,500 years. Acupuncture involves inserting thin, single-use, sterile needles through the skin to identify and correct imbalances within the body’s “energy� flow, called “qi� or “chi.�

Acupuncture as a form of medical treatment has become more popular in the U.S. in recent decades. It may be useful as a stand-alone treatment for some conditions, but it’s increasingly used as part of an inte-

grative medicine approach in conjunction with conventional (Western) medical treatments, as in your case.

Evidence suggests that acupuncture may provide a range of health benefits. In the U.S., acupuncture most often is used to treat acute and chronic pain disorders; emotional disorders, such as anxiety and depression; digestive complaints; and neurological conditions, such as migraine or stroke.

It has been used to treat respiratory conditions, gynecological disorders and infertility. There is also evidence to support its use to treat fatigue and addictions.

A general sense of well-being often is promoted through the balancing of the energy of the body. Thus, treatment can

Joint replacement

joint is “worn out� and conservative treatments (such as medications and exercise) aren’t helpful enough, there aren’t many good options other than a second replacement. But based on the numbers published in this new report, some people may decide to delay or even forego the second surgery.

Robert M. Shmerling, M.D., is a faculty editor at Harvard Health Publishing. Š 2019. President and fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

From page 6 better than those in this study.� And that may be true.

But increasingly, hospitals and surgeons are being required to make public their results, so if you’re considering hip or knee replacement and your surgeon’s results are truly better, or worse, than average, hopefully you’ll be able to find out.

So when a person’s replaced hip or knee

maintain that state of well-being.

How does it work?

There are multiple scientific theories about how acupuncture works. It may work at the site of application or at a distance, with the help of sensory neurons that signal changes within the peripheral and central nervous system.

One theory is that acupuncture may promote the release of the body’s own natural painkillers (endogenous opioids), alleviating or easing pain.

Insertion of acupuncture needles also may block the transmission of pain signals through the nerves to the brain. In addition, acupuncture may stimulate the release of certain brain and nerve chemicals

that can ease symptoms of depression.

Acupuncture is generally safe when performed properly by an experienced practitioner. It has few side effects, especially compared to many drugs.

The most common side effects of acupuncture are soreness and minor bleeding or bruising at the needle sites. Less common risks or complications are infection or, rarely, puncture of the lung.

When not to use Certain conditions may increase your risk of complications. Your chances of bleeding or bruising from the needles increase if you have a bleeding disorder or you take anti-clot-

BURGER MONDAY $ 5.99 CLASSIC BURGERS

J Join U s!

Sign Up to Coo ok with Local “Cele ebrity� Chefss

See ACUPUNCTURE, page 9

W/ SEASONED FRIES

TACO TUESDAY $ 5.99 TWO TACOS

W/ CHIPS & SALSA

RIB WEDNESDAY $10.99 HALF PORTION, CORNBREAD & SEASONED FRIES

Learn the tricks off the trade from thos se in the know. < R X ¡ O O V H H Óž U V W K D Q G K R Z R X U O R F D O & K H I V S U H S D U H W K H L U V S H F L D O W \ I R R G V N H H S L Q J L Q P L Q G Q X W U L W L R Q F R V W D Q G P R V W L P S R U W D Q W O \ W D V W H : H D O O N Q R Z W K D W Z H Z R Q ¡ W P D N H H D W L Q J ´ K H D O W K \ Âľ I R R G D S U L R U L W \ L I L W G R H V Q ¡ W W D V W H J R R G D Q G L I L W L V Q ¡ W E X G J H W I U L H Q G O \ 6 W D \ W X Q H G W R R X U Z H E V L W H D Q G ) D F H E R R N W R V H H Z K L F K O R F D O F K H I V Z L O O E H LQ WKH KRXVH Date: )HEUXDU\ Time: DP ² SP Member Fee: Non-Member Fee: Become a Wise & Well Member today and sav ve on all class fees! Ň&#x2014; $Č&#x2026; -/$â&#x20AC;Ť Ţ&#x201D;â&#x20AC;Ź/ . - 1 $' ' !*- +0- # . Ň&#x2DC;

Interested? Contact us at: CommunityHealth@ChooseKesw wick.org or call us at 410.662.4363 3 Located across from the Rotunda on n the Keswick Campus 700 W 40th St. Baltimore, e MD 21211

NACHO THURSDAY $ 5.99 HALF ORDER OF CHILI NACHOS

FRIDAY FISH FRY $ 9.99 DINE IN ONLY

$ 5 OFF $ 25 WITH THIS COUPON. NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFERS, DISCOUNTS OR PROMOTIONS. ONE COUPON PER TABLE, PLEASE. VALID AT ALL LOCATIONS IN NOVA, MD AND WV. EXPIRES 3/31/19.

G002

SEE WWW.GLORYDAYSGRILL.COM/LOCATIONS FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF LOCATIONS.

8

Fitness & Health | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

FEBRUARY 2019 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Costly difference: Inpatient vs. observation When a person enters the hospital because of required medical treatment, she is generally not concerned about how she is classified as a patient. But what may seem like an arbitrary classification can be very costly for people with Medicare.

Hospitals classify each patient’s status as either “inpatient” or “observation.” Inpatient status implies severe problems requiring highly skilled care. Observation status implies less severe problems and a shorter stay.

Under current practices, most hospitals will not notify a patient that she has been categorized as observation status until discharge. Then, a hospital representative presents a document for the patient’s signature indicating that she understands that the classification has been observa-

tion status.

No real way to know A patient who enters the hospital for an emergency and only stays for a short period of time may understand that she is considered an outpatient.

However, a patient who plans a procedure well in advance and stays in a hospital for more than 48 hours may expect that she will be categorized as an inpatient. But that is not the case for many patients.

For many years now, hospitals have been deeming more and more patients to be in observation status, and they have even used that categorization for patients who stay for a week or longer.

The Medicare standard is the so-called

We have EVERYTHING YOU NEED to enjoy a vibrant retirement.

“two midnights” rule: If a patient passes two their status is. This is especially important consecutive midnights in the hospital, she for people who don’t have Part B coverage or its equivalent. They have a merits inpatient status. Unforturight to know the hospital exnately, things often don’t work penses they will be facing deout that way. In fact, hospitals pending on their patient stahave the right to retroactively tus. change a patient’s status to observation.

My wife recently had a Rehab coverage also affected pacemaker installed at a Florida hospital, and she received Another example: Assume excellent treatment. She a person has been a patient at spent two days in the hospital. the hospital for three or more Her procedure was planned THE SAVINGS days. If he had been categorized as an inpatient, he could weeks in advance. I expected GAME be admitted to a rehab facility that she would be categorized By Elliot Raphaelson and be covered by Medicare as an inpatient. She was not.

She was provided with paperwork an hour for 20 days there.

However, if he had been categorized as before dismissal for her to sign indicating that she had been in observation status. observation status, Medicare would not This meant that she was covered not under cover any of the rehab expenses because he had not been an inpatient. He would be Part A of Medicare but under Part B. Fortunately, she has Part B and Medigap, on the hook for rehab, and that cost would so most of her expenses will be covered. If run into many thousands of dollars.

Unfortunately, Medicare policies and hosshe did not have Part B or Medigap, she pital policies in this area are ambiguous. Bewould have faced significant expenses.

However, Part B does not cover medica- cause of cost pressure from Medicare, hospitions, so she will be billed for them. She does tals are deeming observation status more frehave Part D, which covers prescription quently in the last several years, and most padrugs, so some of the drug expenses may be tients are not aware of the cost implications. covered. However, if she had been categoCongress needs to establish fairer and rized as an inpatient, most if not all of her better defined policies, and better protechospital expenses would have been covered. tion for Medicare patients. I urge you to This is not the first time that a family contact your congressional representamember has spent two or more days in the tives. The current practices don’t protect hospital and only found out at discharge that patients at all. they were not categorized as an inpatient.

Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions Frankly, I think the existing hospital pol- and comments at raphelliot@gmail.com. icy in this regard is shameful. A patient © 2018 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by should know as soon as possible what Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Please patronize our advertisers.

Fabulous amenities, including multiple restaurants, an indoor pool, fitness center, and more!

Maintenance-free apartment homes with open layouts and stylish finishes.

On-site health and wellness services at our fully staffed medical centers.

A smart financial structure that protects your initial investment and keeps your monthly expenses affordable and predictable.

13305291

Request your brochure today!

Call 1-800-590-4091.

BALTIMORE BEACON — FEBRUARY 2019

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

9

Ways to address urinary incontinence

By Dr. Monique Tello Q: I often have a problem leaking urine when I cough or sneeze or get the urge to go. I would rather avoid medication. What else can I do?

A: You have lots of company. An estimated 45 percent of women experience some form of urinary incontinence at some point in their lives. That’s almost half of all women! It’s a very big deal.

Urinary incontinence can negatively affect physical and emotional well-being. For example, women may avoid going out because they’re worried about having an accident away from home.

Here’s what else to do besides medications or surgery.

First, talk to a healthcare provider:

There are readily identifiable medical factors that can cause or worsen incontinence: Certain medications, uncontrolled diabetes, bladder infections, constipation and menopausal changes, to name a few.

Then take care of the area: If moisture isn’t absorbed, it will irritate the skin and can lead to infections in the genital area.

Sometimes the issue is reluctance to explore the world of incontinence pads (which are now available in a variety of brands and styles). But often, it’s the expense.

Barrier ointments, even plain old petroleum jelly, can help to protect skin from moisture. Daily bathing is also helpful.

Watch the fluid intake: Limit bladderirritating beverages such as caffeinated or acidic drinks (alcohol, coffee, black tea,

green tea, sodas, and seltzers with citric acid added). For women who make nighttime trips to the bathroom, decreasing fluid intake in the evening (especially alcohol) can help.

Lose a few pounds: Extra abdominal fat can create pressure on the bladder. Losing just 5 percent of body weight can help a lot. But even losing a few pounds can improve symptoms.

Exercise: The more physically active a woman is, the less likely she is to suffer from urinary incontinence. This may be related to better core and pelvic floor muscle tone in women with increased fitness.

Do pelvic floor exercises and physical therapy: Those Kegel squeezes can really work! They’re not difficult, but it’s important

to do them correctly. Believe it or not, formal pelvic floor physical therapy with a trained provider can be hugely helpful.

Train the bladder: Scheduling bathroom visits can help women to “train” an overactive bladder. Sometimes bladder training is done along with pelvic floor physical therapy, and can be more successful that way.

Monique Tello, M.D., is an internist at Massachusetts General Hospital and Instructor in Medicine at Harvard Medical School. For additional consumer health information, please visit www.health.harvard.edu. © 2018 President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Distributed

by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Acupuncture

This initial evaluation may take up to one hour. Subsequent appointments usually take about 30 to 60 minutes. A common treatment plan typically involves one or two treatments a week to start.

The total number of treatments will depend on the condition being treated and its severity, but six to eight treatments are common. There’s evidence that acupuncture works best in people who expect it to work.

usually no discomfort when the needles are removed.

Some people feel relaxed and others feel energized after a treatment. However, not everyone responds to acupuncture. If your symptoms don’t improve within a few weeks, acupuncture may not be right for you.

If you’re considering acupuncture, take the same steps you would to choose any healthcare provider. Ask people you trust for recommendations. Check the practitioner’s training and credentials.

In addition, talk to the practitioner and

ask what’s involved in the treatment, how likely it is to help your condition, and how much it will cost. In some cases, insurance covers treatment.

A growing number of healthcare providers use acupuncture as part of their clinical practice, including specialists at Mayo Clinic.

— Kirsten Paynter, M.D., Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Ariz. © 2018 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. All rights reserved.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

From page 7 ting drugs, such as warfarin (Coumadin). So let your acupuncturist know if you are on any of these medications.

Also, tell your acupuncturist if you have a pacemaker. Acupuncture that involves applying mild electrical pulses to the needles may interfere with a pacemaker’s operation.

If your white blood cell count is low, such as after certain types of chemotherapy, your healthcare provider may recommend against any disruption of your skin to prevent infection.

Your practitioner may ask you about your symptoms, behaviors and lifestyle. The practitioner may closely examine the parts of your body that are painful, or the strength, rhythm and quality of the pulse in your wrist.

This history gathering and physical exam will help your practitioner determine the type of acupuncture treatment that will help you the most.

What to expect Acupuncture needles are thin, so insertion usually causes little discomfort. However, you may feel a slight aching sensation that usually lasts less than 30 seconds. Between five and 20 needles are used in a typical treatment.

Your practitioner may gently move or twirl the needles after placement, or apply heat or mild electrical pulses to them. If at any time you have discomfort, let your practitioner know.

In most cases, the needles remain in place for 15 to 30 minutes while you lie still. There’s

10

Fitness & Health | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

FEBRUARY 2019 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Introducing the future of personal transportation.

It’s not a Wheelchair...

It’s not a Power Chair...

It’s a Zinger Chair!

10”

The Zinger folds to a mere 10 inches.

More and more Americans are reaching the age where mobility is an everyday concern. Whether from an injury or from the aches and pains that come from getting older– getting around isn’t as easy as it used to be. You may have tried a power chair or a scooter. The Zinger is NOT a power chair or a scooter! The Zinger is quick and nimble, yet it is not prone to tipping like many scooters. Best of all, it weighs only 47.2 pounds and folds and unfolds with ease. You can take it almost anywhere, providing you with independence and freedom.

Years of work by innovative engineers have resulted in a mobility device that’s truly unique. They created a battery that provides powerful energy at a fraction of the weight of most batteries. The Zinger features two steering levers, one on either side of the seat. The user pushes both levers down to go forward, pulls them both up to brake, and pushes one while pulling the other to turn to either side.

This enables great mobility, the ability to turn on a dime and to pull right up to tables or desks. The controls are

right on the steering lever so it’s simple to operate and its exclusive footrest swings out of the way when you stand up or sit down. With its rugged yet lightweight aluminum frame, the Zinger is sturdy and durable yet convenient and comfortable! What’s more, it easily folds up for storage in a car seat or trunk– you can even gate-check it at the airport like a stroller. Think about it, you can take your Zinger almost anywhere, so you don’t have to let mobility issues rule your life. It folds in seconds without tools and is safe and reliable. It holds up to 265 pounds, and it goes up to 6 mph and operates for up to 8 hours on a single charge.

Why spend another day letting mobility issues hamper your independence and quality of life?

Zinger Chair® Call now and receive a utility basket absolutely FREE with your order.

1-888-560-6853 Please mention code 110633 when ordering.

Just think of the places you can go: • Shopping • Air Travel • Bus Tours Zinger is not a wheelchair or medical device and is not covered by Medicare or Medicaid. © 2019 firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc.

83933

• Restaurants– ride right up to the table! • Around town or just around your house

BALTIMORE BEACON — FEBRUARY 2019

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

11

Why you still need milk (or substitutes)

By Kiera Carter You probably grew up guzzling milk. It’s a solid source of protein, and it helps you build strong bones.

Flash-forward a few decades, though, and it’s no longer front and center in your fridge — if it’s in there at all. More and more people are going vegan or paleo, and ditching dairy.

Even if your diet doesn’t prohibit milk, concerns about its link to acne, allergies and heart disease may have made you nix it.

Other foods have stepped up to fill the gap. The USDA, which suggests three servings of dairy a day, now includes substitutes like soymilk as sources of calcium.

However, recent studies on the health perks of dairy raise the question: Is it really necessary to give up dairy completely?

Pros and cons of dairy Turns out, milk still deserves its oncestellar reputation. “Dairy is an incredibly easy way to get a very high dose of essential vitamins and minerals,” said Taylor Wallace, Ph.D., a professor in the department of nutrition and food studies at George Mason University.

Dairy is a complete protein, with all the essential amino acids your body requires to function. Plus, dairy is fortified with vitamin D, which is crucial to helping your body absorb calcium.

Not only that, dairy is an excellent choice for active people. Low-fat chocolate milk has been shown to help with muscle recovery after endurance exercise, and people who drank two cups of skim milk after lifting weights lost more fat and gained more muscle than those who drank soy, according to a McMaster University study.

One of dairy’s biggest negatives? The stomach problems it causes. Many people have trouble digesting it because they’re intolerant of lactose, the type of natural sugar that milk and other dairy products contain.

Acne is another major concern for many people, who say they break out when they eat dairy. While there hasn’t been a definitive study proving that dairy causes pimples, a growing volume of research suggests there’s a link, according to a review in Practical Dermatology.

Substitutes to consider If you choose to follow a dairy-free diet, you can get the benefits of milk elsewhere.

“Most nondairy options are fortified with comparable amounts of calcium and vitamin D, and they’re easy for your body to absorb,” said Wallace. For all the essential amino acids your body needs, drink soymilk, which is also a complete protein.

Prefer almond or coconut milk? Enjoy it with some whole-wheat toast. “Whole

grains provide the other amino acids you require,” said Wallace.

“B12, which keeps your red blood cells healthy and prevents anemia, is almost solely found in meat and dairy, so most vegetarians need a supplement [2.4 mcg. a day],” he added.

“Dairy is also high in choline, which helps your body communicate with your brain, and may prevent neurological disorders.”

You’ve got a good start if you eat eggs (one egg has about 150 mg. choline), but

be sure to take a supplement if you’re vegan (425 mg./day is usually adequate).

If you want to add dairy back into your diet, Wallace suggests three 8-ounce servings of low-fat milk a day. Or mix and match foods to get your fill: snack on a cheese stick and eat Greek yogurt or cottage cheese.

Shape magazine is dedicated to helping you live a healthy and happy life. Online at www.shape.com. © 2018 Meredith Corporation. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Tell them you saw it in the Beacon!

12

Fitness & Health | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

DNA tests

FEBRUARY 2019 — BALTIMORE BEACON

scrupulously hidden from me,” writes Shapiro.

From page 1 months later, changed everything I had ever understood about myself,” she continued. “I was only half Eastern European Ashkenazi, as it turned out. A person I had never heard of was identified as a first cousin.

“The truth was unavoidable. My beloved father, who died in a car accident when I was 23, had not been my biological father.”

Shapiro’s discovery led her to investigate the history, science and psychology of assisted reproduction, the same circumstances that were responsible for Steve Gordon’s conception.

“I have spent the past few years piecing together the story of how I came to be, the truth of where (and who) I come from -– and the ways in which my identity was

Health ramifications Not knowing one’s genetic make-up not only has psychological ramifications, should one find them out at a much later stage in life, but medical ones as well.

Shapiro was shaken, for example, to realize that she’d been giving her doctors incorrect information about her family history for her entire life.

Such has also been the case for Nancy H., who prefers not to give her last name.

Adopted as an infant, she recently was able to find out who her birth parents were by finding siblings (both full and half) through DNA testing.

In doing so, she learned that her biological father died of colon cancer. When she told her family doctor about her newfound

ARE YOU SUFFERING WITH CHRONIC OR ACUTE PAIN, OR ARE YOU THINKING ABOUT JOINT REPLACEMENT SURGERY? If so, Dr. Carle has an Alternative solution for your Pain Relief. Call 410.337.5002.

80% of Dr. Carle's patients have experienced remarkable and life-changing recovery from Arthritis, Back, C.O.P.D, Knee, and Neuropathy Pain, with Regenerative Medicine Therapy treatment.

Dr. Kenneth A. Carle, MD Board Certified in Pain Medicine & Anesthesiology

Reclaim Your Health CALL TODAY FOR AN APPOINTMENT:

410-337-5002

“I am Super Amazed, Happy & So Thankful for this Treatment.”

“I’ve tried everything. This treatment is the one that I’m glad I had!”

“Within a couple of days I noticed a change. I recommend this treatment.”

NEUROPATHY AND COPD “SUSAN”

HIP AND LOWER BACK “JAMES”

BACK, KNEE AND SHOULDER “R. BROWN”

“I was hopeless for 10 years.

Within two weeks I was no longer taking medication.”

BACK AND COPD“LIN”

For more testimonials, go to www.regenerativemedicinetowson.com

Breakthrough Treatment, Dramatic Results Regenerative Medicine TOWSON

CALL TODAY FOR AN APPOINTMENT:

410-337-5002

www.regenerativemedicinetowson.com Osler Medical Center, 7600 Osler Drive / Suite 205, Towson, MD 21204

medical history, the doctor immediately wrote an order for a screening colonoscopy.

For B.K. Jackson, who also prefers not to give her full name, the finding that her father was not her biological father was not only a surprise to her, but most likely would have been to him as well, had she decided to tell him.

Jackson — whose mother left the family when her daughter was very young — spent years looking into what had become of her mother. Through DNA testing she eventually found numerous half-siblings, and has become quite close with them.

They even have an annual family reunion.

In order to get a more complete picture of her genetic makeup, she asked her father if he’d be willing to take a DNA test.

He agreed, and when the results came in, Jackson was shocked to find that her father was not her biological dad.

“I doubt that he knew,” said Jackson, who is writing a book about her genealogical journey. “I don’t think he would have agreed to take the test had he known.”

Did she tell him? “What would have been the purpose?” she asked. “He was the dad I knew and loved.”

Through her dogged persistence and growing expertise in DNA, Jackson eventually identified the man who was her biological father. (He is no longer alive.)

ously bewildering feelings of being misplaced in my family. At some level, I always knew I didn’t belong. But I didn’t know why until now.”

For Jackson, DNA testing has given her the opportunity to find out where she came from and connect with her people.

“In my case,” she said, “I found so many wonderful siblings and cousins who not only welcomed me with open arms, but also provided information and photos of my birth father, grandparents and great grandparents.

“But many who experience DNA surprises aren’t always that lucky. Often they’re rejected by their birth families out of disbelief or shame, and are made to feel like dirty secrets that must remain hidden.

All they want is to know who they are.”

Indeed, the happy reunion stories shown on television commercials for the DNA testing companies are not always what people experience.

Nancy H., for example, has met with her newly found full sister and other half-siblings. (A presumed full brother has not responded to any attempts to contact him.)

But after the initial flurry of excitement, Nancy said, “There’s a sense of ‘what’s next?’ Where do we go from here? We’re just feeling our way.”

Sources of support Relief and surprise mingle How have all these discoveries affected Jackson’s life?

“After finally having found out what had become of my mother, and feeling a new sense of wholeness as a result, it was mind-boggling to discover that I had another, even bigger, mystery to tackle,” she said.

“Not everyone is glad to have discovered their truth — it can knock your sense of identity out from under you,” she added.

“But for me, it helped make sense of previ-

Because of the emotions and questions DNA findings can bring forth, companies such as Ancestry are training their customer service representatives to help callers cope with such issues.

“Ancestry recognizes that the information we provide to our customers can be surprising and, at times, life-changing,” said Jasmin Jimenez, a company spokesperson.

“Ancestry works hard to help our customers understand that some of what they See DNA TESTS, page 13

BALTIMORE BEACON — FEBRUARY 2019

DNA tests From page 12 learn about themselves might be unexpected, and our team of member services representatives are trained to help customers understand and interpret their DNA test results.

“And for customers with more sensitive queries, we offer a small, dedicated group of highly experienced representatives who can help guide users to their own discoveries,” Jimenez added.

Numerous Facebook groups are also available to help people interpret their test results, offering emotional support and even practical advice on how to approach family members about secrets they may have hoped would remain hidden.

Sometimes the results of DNA testing are not necessarily life-changing, just surprising. Cathy Shapiro, for example, who lives in Stevenson and is the owner of Cathy’s Ginger Spices, was always told that she was of Russian and Polish descent.

Her DNA test, however, showed that she is actually over 60 percent German, with another 30 percent Argentinian and

the rest Gypsy, with a small amount of Neanderthal thrown in for good measure.

“I’ve heard that’s not unusual!” she laughed.

“My whole life I thought I was one thing, and now I have all these new cultures to learn about,” said Shapiro. “I guess the moral of the story is, unless you know for sure, there are many surprises left about your family tree.”

Andrew Der found that out as well. Der, 65, an environmental consultant who lives in Fells Point, was born in Hungary and moved to the U.S. as a child after his parents fled the Hungarian Uprising. They had no relatives in this country, but Der believed that at least one of his mother’s parents was Jewish, though the family did not practice Judaism.

Several years ago the husband of a cousin Der did not know reached out to him to let him know that in poring over Hungarian records, he had found that both of Der’s maternal grandparents had been born Jewish. Curious, Der took a DNA test himself, and learned that he’s more than 50 percent Eastern European Jewish.

“I’ve since found out that I had relatives who died in the Holocaust,” said Der. That

BEACON BITS

Jan. 25

OPIOID AWARENESS FOR SENIORS

The Pikesville Senior Center will present a lecture on opioid awareness for seniors on Friday, Jan. 25, from 1 to 2 p.m. Learn how opioids and other pain relievers work, what questions to ask your doctor when you are prescribed opioids, how to store them safely, and how to responsibly dispose of them. The center is located at 1301 Reisterstown Rd. For more information, call (410) 887-1245 or email pikesville@baltimorecountymd.gov.

Ongoing

VOLUNTEER AT THE PRATT

Volunteers are an integral part of the Enoch Pratt library system, performing a variety of activities and assignments. To learn more, call (410) 396-9940 or visit www.prattlibrary.org.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

discovery has been “bittersweet,” he said, because both his parents have died, and now he’s feeling a further sense of loss for family members he never knew — indeed, never even knew he had.

It has also made him think of how the rampant anti-Semitism in Europe in the late 19th and early 20th centuries probably led to his grandparents’ decision to abandon their religious beliefs and hide their identity even from their children and grandchildren.

“It makes you take a step back and think about what you know — and don’t know — about yourself and your family,” said Der. Nonetheless, he said he has found these revelations exciting, further reinforcing his pride in his diverse background.

“But it certainly puts to rest the idea that there are no more surprises in life,” said Der.

13

“Who knows...there could be even more.”

Since Ancestry began in 2012, more than 10 million people in 30 countries have taken its DNA test. Note that, after obtaining DNA results, there are additional monthly charges for use of the company’s database and family tree service. See ancestry.com.

Another company, 23andMe, also offers a $99 DNA test, plus an optional service (additional $125) with information on genetic health risks your DNA and family history suggests. They claim more than 5 million customers. See 23andme.com.

FamilyTreeDNA claims 2 million users.

In addition to family DNA analysis, they offer more specific analysis of male and female ancestry, and more comprehensive DNA analysis for additional charges. See familytreedna.com.

14

Fitness & Health | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Health Studies Page

FEBRUARY 2019 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; BALTIMORE BEACON

THE PLACE TO LOOK FOR INFORMATION ON AREA CLINICAL TRIALS

Studying cancer, insomnia and weight loss

By Carol Sorgen According to a study published by the Multinational Association of Supported Care in Cancer, sleep-related complaints are common among breast cancer survivors.

Studies have also shown that maintaining a normal weight can result in a reduced risk of cancer-related symptoms, including sleep problems, though data from published studies are not consistent. Additional studies have shown the possibility of an elevated risk of breast cancer among women who are obese.

So the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins is conducting a pilot study to better understand the relationship between insomnia, weight loss and breast cancer.

More specifically, the study will examine the associations between body mass index (BMI) and sleep-related complaints in breast cancer survivors.

Education vs. therapy Participants will be randomly placed in either of two groups. Both groups will start with a web- and phone-based program that promotes weight loss through a

change of diet and activity levels.

For both groups, this phase includes 15 sessions over six months (one in-person, 14 by phone or videoconference). Participants will be given physical activity trackers, and will use a dietary app to record their food intake.

Then each group will have a different sleep intervention program. One will receive cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for insomnia. CBT is used to help people manage a variety of problems by changing the way they think and behave in response to them. The other group will receive a widely available sleep education program (without therapy).

For both groups, the sleep phase of the study includes six sessions over eight weeks (two in-person, followed by four phone or videoconferencing sessions).

Four in-person assessments will be coordinated with the in-person sleep and weight loss intervention visits. These will occur at the beginning of the study, and at two, three and six months into the study.

The primary outcome being examined is weight loss. Some of the measures that will be recorded throughout the study in-

clude height, weight, waist/hip measurements and sleep diaries.

A secondary outcome measure includes sleep continuity, measured by length of time between falling asleep and waking up.

This will be measured using activity monitors and sleep diaries.

Here, the researchers will evaluate the extent to which improvements in short-term sleep continuity are associated with improvements in daily physical activity and dietary quality/quantity. They will see whether these improvements are also associated with three- and six-month weight changes.

Qualifying for the study Study participants must be women who were diagnosed with early stage breast cancer between three months and five

years ago, have a body mass index (BMI) greater than 25, and experience insomnia.

They must have a confirmed diagnosis of ductal carcinoma in-situ (DCIS) or stage I-III invasive carcinoma of the breast. They must also have completed treatment such as surgery, radiation and chemotherapy prior to enrollment.

Participants must weigh less than 400 pounds and be willing to lose 10 percent of their body weight. They must have been diagnosed with insomnia or report sleep problems, and have daily access to the Internet and/or a smartphone.

Compensation for time and travel may be available.

For more information, contact Alexandra Kearson at (410) 550-9056 or akearson1@jhmi.edu.

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

JOIN NORTHWEST NEIGHBORS CONNECTING

Ongoing

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PROGRAM

Northwest Neighbors Connecting (NNC) is a community organization that offers a way for people to care for one another.

Activities and services include friendly caller check-ins, exercise and nutritious cooking classes, and social activities. Some services and programs are open to the entire community, some require NNC membership. To learn more, visit www.NNC.Clubexpress.com.

If you are being abused, call the Domestic Violence Program at Northwest Hospital at (410) 496-7555. The program provides 24/7 response to victims seeking treatment in the hospital, safety planning and short-term crisis counseling, individual counseling and support groups, court accompaniment and advocacy. All services are free of charge and confidential.

The Baltimore County Domestic Violence Hotline is (410) 828-6390.

BALTIMORE BEACON — FEBRUARY 2019

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Fitness & Health

15

Love means saying you’re sorry (often) Dear Solutions: So, apologize. You’ll be teaching your My 8-year-old grandson is living with grandson a valuable lesson. He’ll learn that us for a while. I think I overpeople, even grandparents, reacted to something he did, make mistakes. And that and I punished him in a way when they do, they apologize that I now think was unfair.

— as he should when he My wife is angry at me, makes a mistake. and says I should apologize It won’t undermine your auto him because he thinks I thority. It will increase his redon’t love him. spect for you as a person who I think if I apologize, it is fair. will undermine my authorDear Solutions: ity. And besides, he knows My husband and I were I love him, so I don’t have SOLUTIONS both widowed, and we’re in

By Helen Oxenberg, to say it. a second marriage for 10 — Grandpa MSW, ACSW years now. We each have Dear Grandpa: adult children from our You know that saying, “Love means first marriages. never having to say you’re sorry”? Sorry, Because of recent deaths in the fambut it’s a lie. ily, we’ve become aware of the need to True love often means having to say plan for our own deaths. you’re sorry — even when you’re the My family has graves in a certain area, grandparent. It means caring enough to and various close family members are apologize when you’re wrong. buried there. There is a gravesite there

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

PARKINSON’S DANCE CLASSES

Bowen McCauley Dance Company offers free music, seated dance and stretching classes for people with Parkinson’s disease.

Classes take place at the Goucher College Sports & Rec. Center’s Todd Dance Studio, 1021 Dulaney Valley Rd., on Tuesdays from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. No pre-registration or experience is required. For more information, visit www.bmdc.org or call (703) 910-5175.

Feb. 4+

CAREGIVERS: GAIN AGING MASTERY

Learn how to make your later years your best years in this 12week program, The Aging Mastery Program for Caregivers, on Wednesdays, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., Feb. 4 to May 5, at the Cockeysville Senior Center, 10535 York Rd. The fee is $35 for the entire program. Each class will be taught by experts in the fields of nutrition, exercise, advance planning, finance, falls prevention, community engagement and sleep.

Call (410) 887-3424 to register.

for me, and I would like to be buried there.

My husband has that same arrangement elsewhere with his family. But he says that, since we started a new life, we should be buried together.

That means we would both be buried away from our families.

What do you think we should do?

— Sylvia Dear Sylvia: You have to look at what burial places are for. Are they for the dead, or are they really for the living children, grandchildren and other descendants who want to visit their families?

Graves and cemeteries have a sense of family history. It certainly helps if your de-

scendants can go to one place.

Being buried separately does not take away from having been alive together.

Your husband could be buried with his family and you with yours — separate but equal.

You and your husband should think about this and try to come to a mutual decision.

And, anyway let’s face reality. If you really want your children to visit, you should be buried at a shopping mall! © Helen Oxenberg, 2019. Questions to be considered for this column may be sent to: The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915. You may also email the author at helox72@comcast.net. To inquire about reprint rights, call (609) 655-3684.

16

Fitness & Health | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

FEBRUARY 2019 — BALTIMORE BEACON

“To you, it’s the perfect lift chair. To me, it’s the best sleep chair I’ve ever had.”

— J. Fitzgerald, VA

NEW Footrest Extension for even more head to toe support.

We’ve all had nights when we just can’t lie down in bed and sleep, whether it’s from heartburn, cardiac problems, hip or back aches – it could be a variety of reasons. Those are the nights we’d give anything for a comfortable chair to sleep in, one that reclines to exactly the right degree, raises feet and legs to precisely the desired level, supports the head and shoulders properly, operates easily even in the dead of night, and sends a hopeful sleeper right off to dreamland.

Our Perfect Sleep Chair® is just the chair to do it all.

It’s a chair, true – the finest of lift chairs – but this chair is so much more! It’s designed to provide total comfort and relaxation not found in other chairs. It can’t be beat for comfortable, long-term sitting, TV viewing, relaxed reclining and – yes! – peaceful sleep.

Our chair’s recline technology allows you to pause the chair in an infinite number of positions, including the Trendelenburg position and the zero gravity position where your body experiences a minimum of internal and external stresses.

You’ll love the other benefits, too: It helps with correct spinal alignment, promotes back pressure relief, and encourages better This lift chair puts you posture to prevent back and safely on your feet! muscle pain.

Easy-to-use remote for massage, heat, recline and lift And there’s more! The overstuffed, oversized biscuit style back and unique seat design will cradle you in comfort. Generously filled, wide armrests provide enhanced arm support when sitting or reclining. The high and low heat settings along with the multiple massage settings, can provide a soothing relaxation you might get at a spa – just imagine getting all that in a lift chair! It even has a battery backup in case of a power outage. Shipping charge includes white glove delivery.

Professionals will deliver the chair to the exact spot in your home where you want it, unpack it, inspect it, test it, position it, and even carry the packaging away! You get your choice of fabrics and colors – Call now!

The Perfect Sleep Chair®

1-888-731-3902 Please mention code 110634 when ordering.

Because each Perfect Sleep Chair is a custom-made bedding product, we can only accept returns on chairs that are damaged or defective.

Long Lasting DuraLux Leather Tan

Chocolate Burgundy

Black

Blue

DuraLux II Microfiber Burgundy Cashmere

Fern

Chocolate

Indigo 46488

Sit up, lie down — and anywhere in between!

© 2019 firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc.

BALTIMORE BEACON — FEBRUARY 2019

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Money Law &

17

SHOULD YOU ITEMIZE? With a much higher standard deduction, many will find it doesn’t pay to itemize NEW IRA LIMITS 2019 brings higher contribution limits for retirement savers REAPING THE DIVIDENDS Companies paid investors record dividends in 2018. Will that trend continue?

UTILITIES SHINE Utility stocks can add stability to your portfolio. Some mutual funds to consider

Expect 2019’s market ride to be stressful

By Stan Choe No matter which way the stock market goes in 2019 — and Wall Street has ample arguments for either direction — expect it to be another gut-wrenching ride.

The market is facing a long list of challenges this year, from expectations for slower economic growth around the world to the restraining effect of rising interest rates. And the global trade war is still creating uncertainty as investors guess how much pain it will ultimately inflict.

All those risks have market strategists along Wall Street forecasting another turbulent year for stocks, and potentially one of the most difficult years for investors since the bull market began its record-setting run in 2009.

That follows up on a 2018 where swings of hundreds of points within a single afternoon became fairly common for the Dow Jones Industrial Average.

Higher risk, lower reward As 2018 showed, higher risk doesn’t always mean higher rewards. As of late December, all major U.S. stock indexes were down more than 8 percent for the year.

And many strategists are forecasting a subdued performance for stocks in 2019.

“One would expect higher returns with higher risk, but for the past two years

we’ve underscored a slightly more treacherous environment for investors: higher risk and lower returns,’’ Vanguard’s global chief economist Joe Davis said as he unveiled his forecasts.

All the cross-currents pushing and pulling markets have analysts along Wall Street recommending a contrasting array of strategies.

Some suggest focusing on stocks from emerging markets, where proponents say particularly sharp drops in price have left them looking cheap.

Others say high-quality bonds look like the safest bet given all the expected turbulence. And some optimists are forecasting a big bounce-back year for U.S. stocks, which they say no longer look expensive relative to corporate earnings.

As investments of all types dropped this year, investor psychology underwent a reset.

For most of the last decade, markets powered higher in a largely smooth and gradual way. That meant big rewards for investors who saw any dip as an opportunity to buy at lower prices. The market recovered from every wobble to set records again and again, often quite quickly.

But 2018 was different. As of late December, the S&P 500 was down 9.6 percent and on pace for its first down year in a decade after including dividends. It also created a lot of heartburn getting there,

with two separate drops of 10 percent over the course of the year.

A year ago, Wall Street was broadly optimistic about stocks and was forecasting moderate gains, largely because economies around the world were growing in sync. But the optimism fell apart as the year progressed and growth rates diverged, in part because of rising trade tensions.

Further expansion or recession?

Much will hinge on how resilient the U.S. economy remains in 2019. It has been accelerating since emerging from the Great Recession in 2009, and it got a big boost this past year from tax cuts, which helped corporate profits surge at their fastest rates in eight years.

The current economic expansion will surpass the 1991-2001 stretch as the longest on record if the economy avoids a recession through July. In the economy’s favor are the still-strong job market and consumer confidence.

But concerns are rising that a recession may be possible in 2020 or even the latter parts of 2019. The Federal Reserve is raising interest rates — it indicated two more increases may arrive in 2019 following four this year— and other central banks are stepping off the accelerator on stimulus for their economies, which remove big supports.

And if inflation spikes unexpectedly higher, it could push the Fed to get more aggressive about raising rates, which would further hinder growth.

Analysts are likewise forecasting a slowdown in U.S. corporate profit growth, though still positive. That’s key because stock prices tend to track with corporate earnings over the long term.

Wall Street expects S&P 500 earnings growth to drop by more than half from last year’s 20.3 percent rate, in part because companies will no longer be getting the boost of the first year of new tax rates, according to FactSet. But the expected 7.9 percent growth rate is still a good one this far into an economic expansion. It’s this gain that has many strategists forecasting at least modest gains for stocks. Some strategists are forecasting the S&P 500 could end 2019 as high as 3,000, which would be a 24 percent leap from late December 2018.

At UBS Asset Management, the expectation is that U.S. market could return about 4 percent as global economic growth continues. European stocks could also return about 6 percent, said Ryan Primmer, head of investment solutions.

But such gains would come with that one big catch. “With higher volatility,’’ he said, “it’s going to feel a lot worse.’’ —AP

Book explains market cycle and trends

By Elliot Raphaelson Most stock-market experts don’t claim that they can predict market highs or lows.

However, one expert investor and writer believes there are ways to understand market trends, and his success in managing mutual funds for Oaktree Capital Group, a company he cofounded, makes believers out of even the most successful investors. Warren Buffett says that if he gets any mail from Howard Marks, it’s the first thing he reads.

Marks has recently written Mastering the Market Cycle: Getting the Odds on Your Side (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt), and the book has received positive reviews by Buffett, Burton Malkiel, Ray Dalio and other market experts.

Trends are the key What most impressed these reviewers

is Marks’ insight into understanding market trends. If you can predict market trends better, your investment results will improve.

Marks argues that it is very important to be able to predict when to be defensive and when to be aggressive. He believes this instinct is more important than the selection of equities in your portfolio.

If you can do a better job of predicting whether you are still in a bull market, despite small corrections, or in a bear market, in which case you should be defensive and maintain a larger cash position, then your long-term performance will be better.

Lawrence Strauss, a writer for Barron’s, recently interviewed Marks and asked him to expand on some of the points in his book, as well as to comment on the current cycle.

In the interview, Marks indicated that

he no longer believes that we are in an “optimistic phase of the market.” He said he couldn’t tell whether we are in the start of another “wobble” in the market or whether it’s the start of a down market.

He does not think that the stock market is highly overvalued. But when Strauss asked whether investors should be aggressive or defensive now, Marks said it is time for defense — though not 100 percent.

Investors should worry more about losing money now, as opposed to missing opportunities. It’s time for caution, he said.

He recommended that investors consider mutual funds that have outperformed other funds in down markets.

How to evaluate cycles In the book, Marks points out the importance of managing risk. He believes that

the main determinant of risk is where you stand in the cycle.

His graphs illustrate that as we rise in the cycle — which means that prices are higher relative to values, in general — the probability distribution of future returns shifts, meaning it is easier to lose money.

He also points out that if you buy when we are low in the cycle — which means the prices of stocks are low in comparison to intrinsic value — then it is harder to lose, and expected returns are higher.

He discusses how he determines the cycle we are in by examining many factors, such as how individuals are reacting to news, and how investors obsess over positives and ignore negatives, and vice versa.

He believes that “keeping your emoSee MARKET TRENDS, page 18

18

Law & Money | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

FEBRUARY 2019 — BALTIMORE BEACON

To itemize or not is the question for 2018

By Tina Orem As the new year begins and taxpayers contemplate another round of 1040s, many are pondering The Big Question: Do I take the standard deduction or spend time hunting for receipts and filling out extra forms to itemize?

The decision largely boils down to whether itemizing will reduce your taxable income more than the flat, no-questionsasked standard deduction will, thus saving you money.

But a major plot twist may make the issue even more vexing for some this tax season: The standard deduction nearly doubled in 2018 to $12,000 for single filers, $18,000 for heads of household, and $24,000 for joint filers.

Generally, that means that a married couple filing jointly, for example, would now need to cobble together at least $24,001 in various tax deductions for itemizing in order to lower their tax bill more than taking the standard deduction would.

It’s a change that’s sure to leave some longtime itemizers wondering whether the standard deduction is actually the thriftier option this year.

Here are four things tax pros say could indicate that it’s time to stop itemizing and take the standard deduction: 1. You didn’t pay a lot of mortgage interest The tax deductions for mortgage interest and property taxes have been boons to itemizers because they often add up to more than the standard deduction, said Andrew McCue, a certified public accountant at Weiss & Company in Glenview, Illinois.

But if you didn’t pay much in property taxes, had a small mortgage, or were at the tail end of your mortgage (where the payments were mostly toward principal and not much interest), these itemized deductions may not save you as much this year as the standard deduction could.

“If those are adding up to a substantial amount, that’s when you want to look at it and compare to the standard deduction,” he said.

2. You used the deduction for state and local taxes The federal deduction for state and local income taxes is popular among itemizers,

but a new cap of $10,000 for joint filers this year means some people may be better off taking the standard deduction instead, McCue said.

But even with the cap in place, taxpayers who also have deductible mortgage interest might still save more by itemizing this year, he said. “In Illinois, it’s not hard for me to say I’ve got $6,000 of property taxes, but that varies a lot state to state,” he said. Add in another $6,000 for mortgage interest, and “just with those two items, you’re at the standard deduction for an individual,” he said.

3. You didn’t donate a lot to charity Charitable donations are a well-known tax deduction for itemizers, but if this year’s higher standard deduction gets you a bigger tax break, the tax-deductibility of your gifts may be a moot point, said Kasey Pittman, a CPA at Newport News, Virginiabased accounting firm PBMares.

“They’re not going to see that added benefit from donations, and I think once they figure that out, they’ll learn to plan their donations and to be more thoughtful about what year they give in and such,” she said.

Market trends

time — and lost a considerable amount of money.

I recommend the book highly. Marks has succeeded in managing mutual funds because he understands market cycles.

You will become a more successful investor if you learn how to understand these cycles better.

Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at raphelliot@gmail.com. © 2019 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

From page 17

Senior Apartments LIVE WELL FOR LESS Roland View Towers • One- and Two-Bedroom as well as Efficiencies • Rents from $575-$930 Utilities Included!

• 24/7 on-site Maintenance and Reception Desk • Beauty/Barber Shop on premises • Bus Trips and Social Events and many more amenities!

• Only 2 blocks from Hampden’s ‘The Avenue’ Spectacular View

$300

Rent Credit When you present this coupon upon application.

To schedule a personal tour call

410-889-8255 St Mary’s Roland View Towers 3838/3939 Roland Ave Baltimore, MD 21211

www.rolandviewtowers.com

Make new friends

tions under control” is crucial. He goes on to say that all the emotional cues in the investing environment can cause you to do the wrong thing: to buy when things are going well and to sell when things are going poorly, when prices are lower.

A good example is the bitcoin market.

When the prices went sky high, many new investors jumped in at exactly the wrong

See ITEMIZE, page 19

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Law & Money

BALTIMORE BEACON — FEBRUARY 2019

19

IRA contribution limits are higher in 2019

By Kimberly Lankford How much can I contribute to my IRA and 401(k) in 2019? What are the income limits to qualify for a Roth?

Answer: You’ll be able to contribute slightly more to your retirement savings in 2019. The contribution limit for a 401(k), 403(b), 457 plan or the federal government’s Thrift Savings Plan rises from $18,500 to $19,000 in 2019. You can continue to contribute an extra $6,000 if you’re 50 or older.

IRA contribution limits (whether for traditional or Roth IRAs) are increasing for the first time since 2013, from $5,500 to $6,000 for 2019. You can continue to add an extra $1,000 catch-up contribution if you’re 50 or older.

The income limit to contribute to a Roth IRA increases slightly this year. Single filers and those filing as head of household can contribute the full amount to a Roth IRA if their modified adjusted gross income is less than $122,000, with the contribution amount gradually phasing out until their income reaches $137,000 (up $2,000 from 2018).

Joint filers can contribute the full

amount to a Roth if their modified adjusted gross income is less than $193,000, with the amount gradually phasing out until their income reaches $203,000 (up $4,000 from 2018).

Single taxpayers and head of household filers who are covered by a workplace retirement plan can deduct their traditional IRA contributions if their income is less than $64,000, with the amount gradually phasing out until their income reaches $74,000 (up $1,000 from 2018).

For married couples filing jointly, if the spouse making the IRA contribution is covered by a workplace retirement plan, the income phase-out is $103,000 to $123,000 (up $2,000 from 2018).

If you are not covered by a retirement plan at work but your spouse is, you can deduct your full contribution if your joint income is less than $193,000, with the deduction gradually phasing out until your income reaches $203,000.

You can deduct your full traditional IRA contribution if you are single or file as head of household and you are not covered by a retirement plan at work (or if you file jointly and neither you nor your spouse

Itemize

In general, unreimbursed medical expenses that are more than 7.5 percent of your 2018 adjusted gross income may be deductible if you itemize, said Travis McMurray, a CPA at accounting firm Blackburn, Childers & Steagall in Tennessee.

But the higher standard deduction could still be a better option.

“Quite honestly, you’d have to have a pretty significant medical event for that to kick in, or your income must be pretty low,” he said.

— AP

From page 18 For example, giving $5,000 to a favorite charity once every five years could save more money than giving $1,000 every year for five years. That’s because “bunched” donations, when combined with other itemized deductions, could get you over the higher standarddeduction threshold and make itemizing worthwhile financially, Pittman said.

4. You didn’t have huge medical expenses

is covered by a retirement plan at work).

For more information about the income limits for deducting traditional IRA contributions in 2018 and 2019, see the IRS’s IRA

Deduction Limits page. © 2018 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

FREE TAX PREPARATION AVAILABLE Beginning in Feb., the AARP Tax-Aide Program is partnering with

senior centers across Baltimore City and County to assist eligible taxpayers to prepare and electronically file their taxes at no charge. The service is aimed at those over 50 with low to moderate income. Appointments will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information or to make an appointment, visit www.baltimorecountymd.gov/Agencies/Aging/financial/taxaide.html/.

Your recovery after a hospital stay should begin with a knowledgeable, interdisciplinary team that understands your health care goals. Working with state-of-the-art equipment, we have the expertise and experience to treat patients recovering from a variety of conditions, including: Neurological Cardiac Orthopedic Cancer Pulmonary Complex Medical

manorcare.com © 2018 HCR Healthcare, LLC

If you need help with any of these conditions, you may benefit from an inpatient skilled nursing and rehabilitation stay.

Four Baltimore locations: • ManorCare – Roland Park • ManorCare – Rossville • ManorCare – Ruxton • ManorCare – Towson For more information, call

888.255.7054

20

Law & Money | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

FEBRUARY 2019 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Companies pay investors record dividends

By Stan Choe It pays more than ever to be an investor.

U.S. companies sent a record amount of cash to their shareholders as dividends in 2018, as their profits continued to pile higher.

The increase is key for shareholders, offering a bit of stability in what was a stomach-churning year for the stock market. The

S&P 500 index twice plunged by 10 percent, and by Dec. 17 had lost 150 points for the year. After including dividends, though, its total return was 2.3 percent.

Wall Street is forecasting the choppiness to continue in 2019, partly because of slower growth in economies and corporate profits around the world. So any cushion

BEACON BITS

Feb. 10

ATTORNEY GENERAL TALK

Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh will speak about his life and work on Sunday, Feb. 10, at a breakfast event sponsored by the Brotherhood Breakfast Series of Baltimore Hebrew Congregation, 7401 Park Heights Ave. The event begins at 9:30 a.m. Attendance is free for Brotherhood members; $10 for nonmembers. For more information or to register, call Sid Braverman at (410) 952-6352 or visit www.baltimorehebrew.org/breakfast.

Jan. 27

TWO-MINUTE MONOLOGUE SLAM

Fells Point Corner Theatre will present its Second Annual Slam Monologue at 8 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 27, at 252 S. Ann St. This friendly competition features local actors performing two-minute monologues.

Tickets are $15 and available at www.fpct.org.

Ongoing

CLASS FEE WAIVERS AVAILABLE AT CCBC

Maryland residents 60 years of age or older who enroll in courses at Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) are eligible for a tuition waiver. Students must be 60 years of age before the academic semester begins. For more information, call (443) 840-CCBC or visit ccbcmd.edu/seniors.

for investors would be a welcome one.

Three years ago, for example, dividends were the sole reason investors got anything out of their S&P 500 index funds. The index dropped 0.7 percent that year, but with dividends its total return was 1.4 percent.

As of mid-December 2018, companies in the S&P 500 index had topped 2017’s record of $419.8 billion in total dividends paid, according to Howard Silverblatt, senior index analyst at S&P Dow Jones Indices.

Tyson Foods, Anadarko Petroleum and D.R. Horton all announced dividend hikes of at least 20 percent in November. The biggest payer in the S&P 500 is AT&T, and Silverblatt said it may announce a boost to its payout in coming weeks to make it 34 consecutive years of increases.

Companies have the wherewithal to do all this because their profits continue to surge. Across the S&P 500, earnings per

share jumped nearly 26 percent during the summer from a year earlier, for the strongest growth in eight years.

Besides dividends, companies have also been setting aside more of their profits for repurchases of their own stock as methods to return cash to shareholders. That’s been to the chagrin of critics pushing for higher pay for workers.

The dividend increases aren’t just in the United States. Globally, payouts hit a third-quarter record in 2018, according to Janus Henderson. The $354.2 billion in total dividends was up 5.1 percent from a year earlier, and growth was particularly strong in emerging markets.

In China, big increases by banks, insurers and energy companies helped drive Chinese payouts up 14.6 percent, for example. That marked a return to growth following three years of declines.

— AP

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

“FIVE WISHES” PAMPHLET AVAILABLE

The Baltimore County Department of Aging offers complimentary copies of “Five Wishes” to educate and empower people to make end-of-life decisions. This useful pamphlet guides individuals through the many facets of healthcare decision-making. Once completed, this document is legally accepted in 42 states, including Maryland. “Five Wishes” is available at senior centers or by calling (410) 887-2594 or emailing aginginfo@baltimorecountymd.gov.

Jan. 24+

BALTIMORE BOAT SHOW

Maryland’s longest-running boat show sails into town once again from Thursday, Jan. 24 through Sunday, Jan. 27, at the Baltimore Convention Center, 1 W. Pratt St. Boats and other vessels will be on display as well as boating products, fishing gear and other services available for purchase. Hours are Thursday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are $14. For more information, visit www.baltimoreboatshow.com.

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Law & Money

BALTIMORE BEACON — FEBRUARY 2019

21

Play defense: add utilities to your portfolio

By Ryan Ermey Since the bull market began in 2009, shares in utilities — water, gas and power providers — have lagged Standard & Poor’s 500-stock index.

But recent rockiness in the stock market bodes well for the traditionally defensive utilities sector. From the S&P 500’s peak in late September to mid-December, the index surrendered 13.1 percent, including dividends. But shares in utilities firms returned 3.3 percent over the period.

As slow-growing, steady dividend payers, utilities are quintessential safe-haven stocks, which explains why they were overlooked for much of the stock market’s historic rise.

Rising interest rates didn’t help. Utilities must compete for investor attention with climbing market yields. Often called bond

proxies, utility shares can struggle when rates are rising.

Interest is growing But sentiment might be turning in favor of utilities. As the bull market moves into bear territory, investors are becoming more interested in defensive sectors.

Historically, utilities have bested the broad market during bear runs. During the 2007-09 downturn, for instance, utilities stocks lost 45.5 percent, or 9.75 percentage points fewer than the S&P 500 lost.

Fidelity Select Utilities (FSUTX) aims to beat its benchmark utilities index by focusing on faster-growing firms trading at reasonable prices. Manager Douglas Simmons favors firms that consistently raise their dividends, by at least 6 percent per year, over those that shell out the biggest payouts.

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

DRIVE CANCER PATIENTS For many cancer patients, getting to and from treatment is one of

their toughest challenges. The American Cancer Society needs volunteer drivers in Central Maryland to help provide transportation for people in your community.

Schedules are flexible. To volunteer to drive for the American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery program, call 1-800-227-2345 or go to www.cancer.org.

301 McMechen Street | Baltimore, MD 21217 .

Fall in LOVE with one of our apartments!

One bedrooms as low as $939 a month.

Get your Studios as low as $798 a month. first month Call Today! 410-523-0013 TTY: 711

of rent FREE!

Income and age restrictions apply.

Professionally Managed by Habitat America, LLC

Must be a qualified applicant.

Income limits apply.

He sees opportunities in companies at the forefront of renewable energy, which he said are poised to boost earnings and dividends at a faster rate than the rest of the sector. One such firm, NextEra, is the top holding in the fund’s 30-stock portfolio.

The fund yields 1.56 percent.

American Century Utilities (BULIX) isn’t a pure utilities fund. The managers start with the Russell 3000 Utilities index, which tracks 85 stocks, including a big slug — 30 percent of the bogey — in

steady, high-yielding communications-services companies.

They whittle the index down to a 35stock, actively managed portfolio, favoring bargain-priced stocks with rising share prices and high dividend yields. Though utilities firms make up most of the portfolio, communications giants AT&T and Verizon represent 25 percent of assets. © 2019 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

22

Law & Money | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

FEBRUARY 2019 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; BALTIMORE BEACON

BALTIMORE BEACON — FEBRUARY 2019

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Travel

23

Leisure &

Some retirees buy RVs and travel the country doing good deeds. See story on page 24.

Cruises abound for almost any interest

Unique onboard experiences The Prestons are passengers on an American Cruise Lines boat sailing on the Mississippi River out of New Orleans.

Along with the battlefield tour, they visit plantations and other sites along the way.

On-board activities include informative lectures by historians and naturalists. The company offers river and coastal trips to 25 states. For more information, call (800) 460-4518 or visit americancruiselines.com.

Betsy and Andy Cross are exploring a very different locale. Their voyage aboard the Motor Yacht Tucano penetrates the vast Amazon rainforest which is home to some 15,000 species of wildlife. Launch rides and land hikes provide animal sightings and visits to isolated villages along the shoreline. The boat offers comfortable accommodations for up to 18 passengers.

For more information, call (800) 510-5999

or see latinamericanescapes.com.

The Norwegian Cruise Line ship that Lauren Davis and Jim Goodman chose exemplifies the expanding choice of activities available at sea. Passengers may zip around a Go-kart track at speeds up to 30 miles per hour. The Ocean Loop water slide propels thrill seekers through a series of twists and turns, including a transparent section that extends over the side of the vessel. Call (866) 234-7350 or see ncl.com for details.

The choices are equally imaginative aboard some ships of the Royal Caribbean line. If glow-in-the dark laser tag and bumper cars don’t provide enough excitement, there’s the highest slide at sea and simulated sky diving. Call (866) 562-7625 or visit royalcaribbean.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MAINE WINDJAMMER ASSOCIATION

By Victor Block Civil War buffs Tom and Elaine Preston wander through reconstructed forts where a major battle of that conflict was fought.

Betsy and Andy Cross follow a guide slogging through a dense rainforest. Lauren Davis and Jim Goodman enjoy an exciting go-kart track and exhilarating water slide.

As inviting as these disparate experiences are, they have something in common. All take place during cruises that appeal to people who are seeking something a bit different.

Passengers on this wind-powered tall ship can try their hand at steering and learn the basics of nautical navigation as they sail along the picturesque coast of Maine.

For crafty sailors The pace is much slower on sailings touted as “Cruising with a purpose.” Craft Cruises specializes in planning voyages for people who share a penchant for knitting, crocheting and similar pastimes. Along with the usual cruise ship activities, they take classes from experts in their area of special interest. Learn more at (877) 9727238 or craftcruises.com Learning opportunities aboard Maine windjammer boats focus on nautical pursuits.

Passengers may try their hand at steering, get instruction in navigation, and participate in other sailing tasks. As they do, the graceful PHOTO COURTESY OF MYTHS AND MOUNTAINS

A boat modeled after a traditional Asian “junk” plies the calm waters of Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay, which is surrounded by limestone peaks and studded with tiny islands.

Cruisers aboard enjoy comfortable accommodations and sumptuous buffet meals.

wind-powered tall ships sail along the picturesque coast of Maine. The 13-member vessels of the Maine Windjammer Association also offer special interest trips that focus on themes ranging from whale watching and birding, to chocolate and wine. Call (800) 807-9463 or visit sailmainecoast.com.

From the Arctic to Asia Much further north, people line the deck of a nuclear-powered ship as it crushes through North Pole ice, then go aloft in a helicopter and tethered hot air balloon to search for polar bears, walruses and seals.

Arctic cruises are among more than 600 itineraries available from Expedition Trips, whose vessels travel to some of the most remote corners of the Earth. The company’s specialists help people arrange both cruises and land trips based on their interests and budget. Call them at (877) 412-8527 or see expeditiontrips.com.

What may be the most other-worldly body of water anywhere is Ha Long Bay in Vietnam. Its 600-square-mile seascape is punctuated by soaring jagged spires, limestone islands, caves and inlets.

Mother Nature’s formations dwarf the boats that ply the calm water, ranging from rowboats and kayaks to fishing craft and bamboo vessels.

The ship that I called home for several days and nights, as part of a Myths and Mountains tour, replicated a traditional “junk,” yet provided very comfortable ac-

commodations and served sumptuous buffet meals. Call (800) 670-6984 or visit mythsandmountains.com.

Freighter travel We close with a brief questionnaire. Do you have time to go to sea for weeks or even months? Can you make do without the fancy, upscale amenities of a modern cruise ship? Are you happy as a member of a small group, rather than mingling with hundreds or thousands of other passengers?

If so, you may be a good candidate for freighter travel. A tiny percent of oceangoing vessels carry passengers along with cargo. They include container ships whose decks are laden with truck-size metal boxes and general cargo carriers that transport an A (automotive parts) to Z (zucchini) alphabet of goods.

Passenger cabins usually are more spacious than on regular cruise ships and feature a private bathroom and air conditioning. Some provide a mini-refrigerator, TV and DVD player. Other amenities might include a library, exercise room and even a swimming pool.

One appeal for freighter fanciers is the opportunity to observe and get to know crew members. Passengers and officers usually share the same dining room, which provides an opportunity to hear maritime stories and anecdotes.

See SPECIALTY CRUISES, page 25

24

Leisure & Travel | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

FEBRUARY 2019 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Exploring the world as a roving retiree

Technology makes it easier A growing number of retirees agree.

The rise of technology that makes it cheap and easy to stay connected anywhere in the world, home-sharing sites that offer low-cost accommodations, and longer life spans promising many active years in retirement are all inspiring a generation of retirees to make travel a lifestyle rather

than an occasional splurge.

Some, like the Draveses, find new purpose in far-flung volunteer projects, while others pursue second-act careers as travel bloggers or photographers, or simply tick some boxes on their bucket list. And many find they’re spending less money than they did as homeowners.

“You can do this on a shoestring — or do it on a private jet,” said David Kuenzi, a financial planner in Madison, Wis., whose clients include many expatriate Americans.

PHOTO BY ANDREY ARMYAGOV

By Eleanor Laise Eager to hit the road, Roxanne and David Draves decided to retire early.

Ten years ago, Roxanne gave up her real estate appraisal work, and David left his job doing lift maintenance for a ski area. They rented out their house in Carbondale, Colo., which they later sold, and bought a motor home.

Since then, they’ve been crisscrossing the U.S., working on 43 Habitat for Humanity building projects in 19 states, watching the Daytona 500 and a Space Shuttle launch in Florida, following Revolutionary and Civil War trails up the east coast, and helping their daughter build a home in Montana.

Roxanne, 63, and David, 69, have no intention of settling down. “Every place has something beautiful to it, and it’s such a joy to meet new people,” Roxanne said.

“It’s hard to sit still for too long.”

Some things to consider It’s not all nomadic nirvana. You’ll need to plan carefully to stay within your budget, and constantly research new destinations and accommodations.

Before making a full-scale commitment, and certainly before selling your house, “take several months off and give it a try,” said Lynne Martin, a globe-trotting retiree and author of Home Sweet Anywhere (Sourcebooks, $15).

Use websites such as NomadList.com and Numbeo.com to research costs of living before deciding on a destination.

To save on travel costs, consider basing yourself in a region — such as Europe — where there’s cutthroat budget airline competition, said Kathleen Peddicord, publisher

Some retirees call an RV home, traveling from one scenic spot to the next, such as this one in Norway. Nearly 6,000 North American RV-ers volunteer with Habitat for Humanity, helping build houses all over the U.S. and Canada.

of website www.liveandinvestoverseas.com.

Or take “repositioning” cruises — discounted one-way voyages offered when cruise lines are relocating ships.

Find affordable accommodations on sites such as HomeAway.com and Airbnb.com.

Or get free accommodation by housesitting.

Get started at sites such as TrustedHous-

esitters.com or HouseCarers.com.

Overseas is more complex If you’re traveling overseas, extra homework is required. You may need additional health coverage. Medicare typically won’t See ROVING RETIREES, page 26

TECHNOLOGY SIMPLIFIED – BIGGER AND BETTER

Wow! A Simple to Use Computer Designed Especially for Seniors!

Easy to read. Easy to see. Easy to use. Just plug it in! now, the very people who could benefit most from E-mail and the Internet are the ones that have had the hardest time accessing it. Now, thanks to the WOW Computer, countless older Americans are discovering the wonderful world of the Internet every day. Isn’t it time you took part? Call now, and you’ll find out why tens of thousands of satisfied seniors are now enjoying their WOW Computers, emailing their grandchildren, and experiencing everything the Internet has to offer.Call today!

Now comes with...

Larger 22-inch hi-resolution screen – easier to see 16% more viewing area Simple navigation – so you never get lost Intel® processor – lightning fast Computer is in the monitor – No bulky tower Text to Speech translation – it can even read your emails to you!

U.S. Based Customer Service

FREE Automatic Software Updates

Call toll free now and find out how you can get your own WOW! Computer.

1-888-717-7513 Mention promotional code 110635 for special introductory pricing.

© 2019 firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc.

84101

There is finally a computer that’s designed for simplicity and ease of use. It’s the WOW Computer, and it was designed with you in mind. This computer is easy-to-use, worryfree and literally puts the world at your fingertips. From the moment you open the box, you’ll realize how different the WOW Computer is. The components are all connected; all you do is plug it into an outlet and your highspeed Internet connection. Then you’ll see the screen. This is a completely new touch screen system, without the cluttered look of the normal computer screen. The “buttons” on the screen are easy to see and easy to understand. All you do is touch one of them, from the Web, Email, Calendar to Games– you name it… and a new screen opens up. It’s so easy to use you won’t have to ask your children or grandchildren for help. Until

NEW

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Leisure & Travel

BALTIMORE BEACON — FEBRUARY 2019

25

Consider hiring help to make travel easier

By Mary Kane For many older adults, retirement frees up time to travel, perhaps exploring places and sights long included on a bucket list.

Or retirees plan visits with adult children who have relocated across the country.

But for some seniors, travel is not that simple. Those with medical problems, physical limitations, or dementia or other cognitive illnesses face some challenges if they want or need to hit the road.

You may have your heart set on going to a family reunion hundreds of miles away or attending a grandchild’s wedding on the opposite coast. Driving may be out of the

Specialty cruises From page 23 Of course, there are also what some consider downsides to freighter travel.

First and foremost, some shipping lines have lower, and upper, age limits. The number of passengers usually is 12 or fewer — the maximum a ship can carry without having a doctor on board.

Ships may spend as little as a half-day or as long as several days in ports, and there are no planned shore activities for passengers. Therefore it’s best to do your own research about scheduled ports of call and how you would like to spend time there.

question, but flying presents its own problems. You’ll have to get through a security line with a carry-on bag, or rush through the airport to transfer flights. You may have a wheelchair or oxygen to contend with.

Hire a travel companion If you or a loved one has health issues or concerns about not being up for the rigors of travel, hiring a medical or other travel companion service is one route to consider. These firms ensure that older parents or loved ones navigate the airport, are comfortable on a flight, and arrive safely at their destination.

A good source of information and bookings is Maris, a freighter cruise specialist that operates a membership club offering discounts on voyages and periodic newsletters. Call (800) 996-2747 or see freightercruises.com.

Another helpful contact is Stride Travel. It includes listings of river and small ship cruises among thousands of packages offered by hundreds of tour companies. Especially helpful are trip and company reviews by both professional experts and other travelers.

Another benefit is that Stride members receive a cash bonus on select trips when they reserve through the company. Membership is free. See more at stridetravel.com.

Lunch and Learn at CCBC! $64 lets you feed your body and your brain.

Start with a lecture session…end with good food at one of several of the area’s finest dining spots.

Topics include: • Art • History • Entertainment • Literature • Personal Growth

Register now!

443-840-4900 ccbcmd.edu/lunchandlearn

The services aren’t cheap, because you typically pay for a companion’s travel costs in addition to yours, along with other expenses.

But the trade-off can be peace of mind or the opportunity to be at an important family or other event that you just don’t want to miss.

Some services also will assist in arranging for a caregiver to help out during the entire visit. “The family shouldn’t have to worry about getting grandma to the bathroom in the middle of the wedding,” said Cindy Schaefer, a registered nurse and

owner of Travel Care and Logistics, a medical companion flying service.

In other cases, adult children are hiring travel companions to help a parent relocate from a distant home to an assisted-living community closer to them. Companion services can also help snowbirds move back home when the seasons change.

Flying Companions (flyingcompanions.com) provides door-to-door service See CONSIDER HELP, page 26

26

Leisure & Travel | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Roving retirees From page 24 cover you outside the U.S. Review each country’s visa rules on the U.S. Department of State website so that you don’t overstay your welcome. And research the country’s residence rules to ensure you won’t become subject to taxation there.

FEBRUARY 2019 — BALTIMORE BEACON

If you stay in Italy for more than 183 days in a year, for example, your worldwide income will be subject to Italian tax, Kuenzi said. And remember that U.S. citizens must always file U.S. tax returns, no matter how long they live abroad.

But those nagging details can’t dampen the pleasures of life on the road, roving retirees say. And though you may be far from

BEACON BITS

Mar. 13

SEE GYPSY AT TOBY’S DINNER THEATRE

Join the Pikesville Senior Center on Wednesday, March 13, for an outing to Toby’s Dinner Theatre for the ever-popular Gypsy. Price is $80 per person and includes transportation, buffet meal and the show. For reservations, call (410) 484-5285

Ongoing

JOIN SENIOR BOX OFFICE

Senior Box Office offers complimentary and discounted tickets to its members for cultural, educational and entertainment events.

Travel opportunities are also available for members and nonmembers. Annual membership dues are $30 per household with brochures delivered electronically or $38 per household with mailed brochures. For more information, visit www.seniorboxoffice.org or call (410) 887-5399.

loved ones, you’re likely to develop many close bonds as you go.

The Draveses say they’ve formed many friendships working with Habitat for Humanity’s RV Care-A-Vanners — a group of about 6,000 volunteers, mostly retirees, who travel the U.S. and Canada in their motor homes building houses.

About half are full-time RVers, and they

tend to team up with the same volunteers on many different building sites, said Habitat spokesperson Bryan Thomas.

“We couldn’t give it up,” said Roxanne Draves. Her husband finishes her thought: “It would be like abandoning your family.” © The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Consider help

who is in the early stages of dementia, from St. Augustine, Fla. to an assisted-living community in Westfield, N.J. Iannelli joined the two on the trip, calling ahead for a wheelchair and securing the last three adjacent seats on a flight.

He took care of all the baggage and the rental car. Then he unloaded the bags at the assisted-living community and helped her check in.

“There’s no way I could have done this alone and maintained her dignity,” Barber said.

Flying Companions does not provide medical care. If you or a loved one requires medical help, be sure to ask a service upfront if it’s available.

Travel Care and Logistics (yourflightnurse.com), for example, is staffed by registered nurses who evaluate a traveler’s condition and consult with a physician before a trip. Staff can dispense medicine and handle medical emergencies.

Travel Care and Logistics recently helped a woman in her 70s diagnosed with dementia to fly from Washington state to a favorite niece’s graduation at Emory University in Atlanta. The company also arranged for a caregiver to stay with her for the five-day event. Costs, which are based on trip lengths and physical and medical needs, start at about $2,500.

Other flying companion services include Travel Helpers (gotravelhelpers.com) and FirstLight Home Care (firstlighthomecare.com).

Make flying easier for yourself by asking the airline for a gate pass that lets a loved one help an older traveler through security. Pack medicines in a carry-on bag, and choose plane seats near the bathroom. © 2018 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

From page 25 for seniors traveling alone or those in need of an extra helping hand, according to owner Doug Iannelli.

A companion will drive an older adult to the airport, help get through security, sit beside him on a flight, and drive him to his destination. Fees for domestic travel range from $3,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the number of flight transfers and trip length.

Laura Swicker Barber, age 55, used Flying Companions to help bring her wife,

We Turn Addresses

into homes

MOST COMMUNITIE S ARE 62 AND BETTER

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY

BALTIMORE COUNTY (CONT.)

The Greens at Hammonds Lane: 410-636-1141 Park View at Furnace Branch: 410-761-4150 Park View at Severna Park: 410-544-3411

Park View at Randallstown: 410-655-5673 Park View at Rosedale: 410-866-1886 Park View at Taylor: 410-663-0363 Park View at Towson: 410-828-7185 Park View at Woodlawn: 410-281-1120

BALTIMORE CITY Ednor Apartments I: 410-243-0180 Ednor Apartments II: 410-243-4301 The Greens at Irvington Mews: 410-644-4487 Park Heights Place: 410-578-3445 Park View at Ashland Terrace: 410-276-6440 Park View at Coldspring: 410-542-4400

EASTERN SHORE Park View at Easton: 410-770-3070

HARFORD COUNTY Park View at Bel Air: 410-893-0064 Park View at Box Hill: 410-515-6115

BALTIMORE COUNTY Cove Point Apartments I: 410-288-2344 Cove Point Apartments II: 410-288-1660 Evergreen Senior Apartments: 410-780-4888 The Greens at English Consul: 410-789-3000 The Greens at Liberty Road: 410-655-1100 The Greens at Logan Field: 410-288-2000 The Greens at Rolling Road: 410-744-9988 Park View at Catonsville: 410-719-9464 Park View at Dundalk: 410-288-5483 Park View at Fullerton: 410-663-0665 Park View at Miramar Landing: 410-391-8375

HOWARD COUNTY Park View at Colonial Landing: 410-796-4399 Park View at Columbia: 410-381-1118 Park View at Ellicott City: 410-203-9501 Park View at Ellicott City: II 410-203-2096 Park View at Emerson: 301-483-3322 Park View at Snowden River: 410-290-0384

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY Park View at Bladensburg: 301-699-9785 • 55 & Better Park View at Laurel: 301-490-1526 Park View at Laurel II: 301-490-9730

Call the community nearest you to inquire about eligibility requirements and to arrange a personal tour. www.rhomecommunities.com MOST COMMUNITIES ARE PET-FRIENDLY

BEACON BITS

Feb. 7+

COMIC JIM GAFFIGAN PERFORMS

Popular comedian Jim Gaffigan will appear at the Modell Performing Arts Center at the Lyric, 140 W. Mount Royal Ave., on Feb. 7 at 7 p.m. and Feb. 8 at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.

Gaffigan is a three-time Grammy nominated comedian, actor, writer, producer, New York Times best-selling author, and multi-platinum-selling recording artist. His unique brand of humor largely revolves around his observations on life. Tickets range from $35.25 to $190. For more information, call (410) 900-1150 or visit www.modell-Lyric.com.

BALTIMORE BEACON â&#x20AC;&#x201D; FEBRUARY 2019

Say you saw it in the Beacon

Style

27

Arts &

Jewelry designer Barbie Levy fashions colorful earrings and necklaces in her â&#x20AC;&#x153;Barb-Wireâ&#x20AC;? line. See story on page 28.

Prolific African American artist celebrated low artists to create work that responded to the turbulent times of 1960s America.

According to the Romare Bearden Foundation, Beardenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life and art are distinguished by his exceptional talent and expansive range of intellectual and scholarly interests, including music, performing arts, history, literature and world art.

He was also known for his lifelong support of young, emerging artists.

Bearden began pursuing his interest in art while completing his studies in education at New York University, where he took extensive courses in art and was a lead cartoonist and then art editor for the monthly journal The Medley. He also began writing on social and artistic issues, interests he would pursue throughout his life.

In 1935, Bearden joined the staff of the Baltimore Afro-American as its editorial cartoonist.

Day job in social work From the mid-1930s through 1960s, Bearden was a social worker with the New York City Department of Social Services.

He worked on his art at night and on weekends, drawing inspiration from Western

JA N UA RY 1 7 - M A R C H 1 7

Let Me En Enterta ntert in i Yo You!!

M A R C H 2 1 - M AY 1 9

410-730-8311

TobysDinnerTheatre.co m Due to the nature of theatriccal bookings, DOO VKRZV DQG GDWHV DUH VXEMHFW WR FKDQJH Â&#x2021; 7RE\ÂľV 'LQQHU 7KHDWUH &ROXPELD 0'

masters ranging from Duccio, Giotto and de Hooch, to Cezanne, Picasso and Matisse, as well as from African art (particularly sculpture, masks and textiles), Byzantine mosaics, Japanese prints and Chinese landscape paintings.

His art began to draw notice with his first solo exhibition in Harlem in 1940 and his first solo show in Washington, D.C., in 1944.

During his lifetime, Bearden was a prolific artist whose works were exhibited throughout the United States and Europe.

His collages, watercolors, oils, photomontages and prints are filled with visual influences and metaphors from his past in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, Pittsburgh and Harlem, and from a variety of historical, literary and musical sources.

In addition to his visual art, Bearden also designed costumes and sets for the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and programs, sets and designs for his wifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dance company, Nanette Beardenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Contemporary Dance Theatre.

Beardenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work is included in many important public collections including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Whitney Museum of American Art, the Philadel-

P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F T H E R E G I N A L D F. L E W I S M U S E U M

By Carol Sorgen The Reginald F. Lewis Museum celebrates the work of the pre-eminent African American artist Romare Bearden in its current exhibition, on view through March 3. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Romare Bearden: Visionary Artist,â&#x20AC;? organized by the museum and the Romare Bearden Foundation in New York, features more than 70 works in a variety of media that showcase Bearden as one of the most important visual artists of the 20th century.

Throughout his prolific career, Bearden, who was born in 1911 and died in 1988, fought against racial stereotypes through images inspired from history, literature, the Bible, the African American community and his imagination.

The diverse collection of original collages, watercolors, drawings and limited edition prints, many of them from Maryland collectors of his art, reinforce Beardenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reputation as an innovative artist who experimented with social realism, abstraction and, ultimately, the collage medium for which he was best known.

Through his steadfast devotion to the African American community, Bearden was instrumental in encouraging his fel-

The work of pre-eminent African American artist Romare Bearden (1911-1988) is now on exhibit at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum. Beardenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s innovative collages, watercolors and drawings focus on social realism, and he also encouraged artists to shape work in response to the tumultuous 1960s.

phia Museum of Art, the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston and the Studio Museum in Harlem, among others.

See LEWIS MUSEUM, page 28

28

Arts & Style | More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

FEBRUARY 2019 — BALTIMORE BEACON

Jewelry designer fuses geometry, color Georgia where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in jewelry and metalworking.

Returning to Baltimore, she apprenticed for three years at a custom design fine jewelry shop on Charles Street, where she refined her skills in various construction and stone setting techniques. During that time, she also attended various workshops at such prestigious craft schools as Penland, Haystack and Peter’s Valley.

Lewis Museum

friendly activities: tour the art gallery with storyteller Diane Macklin; build a musical instrument inspired by Bearden’s jazz art works incorporating collage, printmaking and cardboard; and enjoy youth performances by Muse 360 Arts and the Peabody Preparatory Improvisation and Creative Composition Ensemble. This event is free.

On Saturday, Feb. 9, at 1 p.m., Dr. David

From page 27

Related events Coinciding with the exhibition at the Lewis Museum will be several related events. Romare Bearden Family Day will be held on Saturday, Feb. 2, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., where visitors can enjoy family-

Inspired by geometry It was Levy’s mathematical bent that provided the inspiration for her jewelry, which is known for its geometric shapes and angles. Adding colored glass and semi-precious stones is like “working with candy,” said Levy.

Levy gave up doing commissioned work when her daughter was born 10 years ago, and now focuses on her wholesale and retail

lines. Her pieces can be found in more than 100 shops across the country. (Locally you can find Levy’s jewelry at Artcraft Collection in Savage, and Amaryllis in Towson.)

In addition, she exhibits at shows such as American Handmade, Museum Store Association Expo, Sugarloaf, and the American Craft Show.

Levy thinks her jewelry designs have had staying power because they’re colorful, easy to wear, and are reasonably priced (from $40 to $100).

“The colors, balance, geometry and clean lines create a light and contemporary look,” she said. “There’s so much jewelry out there, but I think my work is unique. It makes people smile.”

Going to the craft show The American Craft Show will be held at the Baltimore Convention Center, 1 West Pratt St., from Feb. 22 to 24. It will feature C. Driskell, one of the world’s leading authorities on the subject of African American art, will give a lecture discussing his personal memories of Romare Bearden and his works. This lecture is included with museum admission.

The museum is located at 830 E. Pratt St. Hours are Wednesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays.

Admission is free for members, Maryland teachers and children under 6; $6 for students, veterans, those 7-17 or 65+; $8 for the general public. For more information, call (443) 263-1800 or go to www.lewismuseum.org.

550 of the country’s top contemporary jewelry, clothing, furniture, and home décor artists.

This year, two specialty programs — “Let’s Make” and “Hip Pop” — will offer attendees more opportunities to interact with local artists, experience demos, and learn about art and craft hands-on.

Hours for the show are Feb. 22, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Feb. 23, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Feb. 24, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets for the show are available online at craftcouncil.org/Baltimore or onsite.

Online tickets can be printed and brought to the door. Tickets purchased online by Feb. 21 are $14 for a one-day pass; $34 for a three-day pass. After Feb. 21, tickets are $2 more. Tickets are free for American Craft Council members and for children 12 and under. On Friday, Feb. 22, admission is $5 after 5 p.m. for on-site purchases only.

P H OTO C O U R T E S Y O F T H E R E G I N A L D F. L E W I S M U S E U M

By Carol Sorgen Local jewelry designer Barbie Levy is looking forward to the annual American Craft Show this February, where she can meet up with customers who seek out her colorful and eye-catching jewelry.

“I never thought the jewelry I started designing in college would take my career where it is today,” said the 52-year-old Ellicott City resident. Levy’s popular “BarbWire” line of colorful silver and glass earrings and necklaces has been a staple of her business since she founded it in 1994.

Levy always had a passion for art, but also had a practical side. “I didn’t want to be a starving artist,” she said.

So after graduating from Pikesville High School, she enrolled at the University of Richmond, intending to major in math and business. It turned out that wasn’t the school or the program for her, and a year later she transferred to the University of

This painting by Romare Bearden appeared on the cover of Black Enterprise magazine in June 1978.

Please patronize our advertisers.

They keep the Beacon free!

Cars, boats, furniture, antiques, tools, appliances Everything and anything is sold on

Radio Flea Market Heard every Sunday, 7-8:00 a.m. on 680 WCBM

Say you saw it in the Beacon | Arts & Style

BALTIMORE BEACON — FEBRUARY 2019

29

For Julia Roberts, things improve with age

By Jake Coyle Julia Roberts is sitting on a couch in a Soho hotel when Lucas Hedges bursts in and begins frantically searching for his phone, sending pillows flying.

“This is what I say to Finn,” Roberts says, referencing one of her three children as she instructs her 21-year-old co-star.

“Where did you go from here, honey?”

Roberts’ motherly instincts play a big part of her latest film, Ben Is Back. Written and directed by Peter Hedges (Dan in Real Life, and the father of Lucas), Ben Is Back is about a son (Lucas) home from rehab for Christmas. The short visit resurrects past demons and present temptations for Ben, testing his mother’s anxious balance of trust and suspicion.

It was the second standout performance last fall for Roberts, who also stars in Amazon’s acclaimed conspiracy thriller “Homecoming” as a government-sponsored caseworker coaxing soldiers back into civilian life.

It’s a more dramatic chapter for Roberts, the most quintessential of movie stars, who at 51 is stretching in new directions that are increasingly further afield from the frothier romantic comedies she built her career on.

Basically a homebody “With age comes more complexity of possible parts,” Roberts said in a recent interview. “You know, I’m happy and I have fun at home. So it would take a lot for someone to say: ‘Look, you can play this part where you’re happy and have fun.’

Well, I just do that at home!”

It can take a lot to get Roberts away from home. Hedges at one point jokingly suggested shooting Ben Is Back in her backyard.

She’s notoriously picky, generally acting in one film a year. And that’s become iffier considering, as she says, there’s “a whole lot of math” that needs to factor in her kids’ school schedule and that of her husband, cinematographer Danny Moder.

Roberts has, quite contentedly, largely

withdrawn from the limelight. She knits.

She plays Mahjong with girlfriends once a week. She will watch Point Break anytime it’s on TV. But she still wears the role of movie star about as comfortably as anyone ever has, and in person she is — to an almost disarming degree — precisely as you’d expect. She remains genuinely, breezily, unaffectedly herself, a quality that has made countless feel as if they know — really know — her.

Roberts grants that the public’s impression of her is “probably relatively accurate,” something few who have graced so many tabloid covers in their lifetime can do. “I mean, I’m not interested in trying to seem cooler than I am or something,” she says.

Still, Roberts, a four-time Oscar nominee and one-time winner (Erin Brockovich), is also indelibly linked to the ’90s and ’00s pre-digital movie era when stars, not superheroes, still ruled the box office.

Times have changed; her breakthrough film, 1990’s Pretty Woman, is now a Broadway musical. Roberts recently had the outof-body experience attending it alongside Barbara Marshall, wife of the film’s late director Garry Marshall.

“I wasn’t prepared for how profoundly it made me miss Garry,” she said, choking up. “I wasn’t prepared for how all of the improvs that I created are in a Broadway book now,” she says. “People are saying things that I was just making up, just vamping.”

Trying new things Lately, Roberts has been trying some new things. She joined Instagram in June.

“Homecoming” is her first foray into a TV series. Roberts insisted Sam Esmail (“Mr. Robot”) direct all the episodes, and that all the scripts be completed before shooting began.

She similarly helped shape Ben Is Back, pushing for Peter Hedges to cast his son, the in-demand breakout star of Manchester

Write a letter to the editor.

See page 2.

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD

FROM PAGE 30 ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

E B O N

A L T A R

T O X I C L O W L Y

C Z E C H

L O O K A F A E T S E E H E R

H S L W A O E V N K E L A E A T D R E S P R E T M B I T A A N E T N T O R T Y I N A N M Y G E S

O V E N S T O C K O R E O

T H E A N M D D I S A T V U T Y P O T O R O R E I N N E C O N S T E S

I T E M

F O R E I L G E N G E R A C A E N S K U L P E

I S N E G E S A N T A

T R Y S T

S T I N T

S P A S

by the Sea — a tall task because Lucas has deliberately sought to establish himself outside of his father’s shadow.

“When Julia read the script and met with me, I came with a list of actors that I thought would be good for the part, and Lucas wasn’t on that list,” Peter Hedges said by phone. “Before I could even share that list with her she said: ‘Lucas needs to play this part.’

“I said, ‘One, I don’t think he’s available, and, two, I don’t think he would ever want to do a film with me.’ Once she signed on, she began a very persuasive and I think classy campaign. She made an effort to let him know that she thought he should do the film with her.”

It is hard to say no to Julia Roberts. The actress later invited Lucas to her Malibu home where she says he became part of the family, hanging out and taking her kids to the beach.

Making Ben Is Back was for her less about channeling her own parental nightmares than about fostering a relationship with her fictional son. “Spending time with Lucas meant that I had heart-space with him, and that is what I called upon and relied upon for the movie,” says Roberts.

Like much of Roberts’ best recent work, including Wonder and August: Osage County (for which she received an Oscar nomi-

nation), Ben Is Back revolves around family, both on and off screen.

While her next film, Little Bee, is a drama, too, Roberts hasn’t turned away from romantic comedies for good. “It’s just two delicious things put together,” says Roberts of the genre.

“It’s like spending months wrapping a present for people. They’re really hard to make well, so I don’t begrudge their absence, because I’d rather not see a bunch of really bad ones.”

But Ben Is Back and “Homecoming” have allowed Roberts to expand on the dramatic work she did with Steven Soderbergh (Erin Brockovich) and Mike Nichols (Closer, Charlie Wilson’s War), who once said of the actress: “Her face is made by God to express thought and feeling.”

What’s left for Roberts to prove? To her, that’s not the question.

“I’ve never been in the proving business. But I do reside very humbly in the Iwant-to-impress-you business,” says Roberts, noting her husband is at the top of that list.

“I just remember the feeling of walking on the set everyday with my beloved Mike Nichols and thinking: What can I do in my work today that he’ll go: ‘I didn’t see that coming.’”

— AP

30

FEBRUARY 2019 — BALTIMORE BEACON

More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

Crossword Puzzle

Daily crosswords can be found on our website: www.TheBeaconNewspapers.com Click on Puzzles Plus Total Value 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

15

16

17

18

19

21

22

23

24 28

33

34

29

30

36

35

38

25 31

41

44

45 49

48 51

52 57

50

53

58

47

46

54 59

55

60 65

66

67

68

69

70

71

63

56 61

64

62

27

32

40 43

26

37

39

42

BB219

Stephen Sherr By9 Stephen Sherr 10 11 12 13

14

20

Scrabble answers on p. 29.

8

Across

Down

1. Create art with acid 5. Potential appointment opening 9. A Good quality phonographs 14. Clown, first televised in 1949 15. Greet from a distance 16. Provide reparations 17. Plow pullers 18. Like most shoe counts 19. Go from two lanes to one 20. Add on unnecessary charges 23. Peek at the answer key 24. Someone who enjoys giving standardized tests (with 25 Across) 25. See 24 Across 28. Bridesmaid’s uniform 31. Crass 33. ___ of the above 36. Considerable sum of money 38. Weaver’s tool 40. “Can I come, ___?”

41. Understands the joke 42. Name near the end of the credits 47. Animal on the Chinese zodiac 48. Molecule of carbon and hydrogen 49. Asian region which anagrams as “ARE OK” 51. Center of BRYAN and MARYANN 52. 52% of an MK3A2 model hand grenade, by weight 54. Ancient Peruvians 57. Total value of this puzzle 62. Healthcare insurer, founded in 1853 64. Metal with atomic number 26 65. Miss a class 66. “I want the world to ___ body” (Marilyn Monroe) 67. Prepare for a new baby 68. Arm bone 69. “___ Johnny!”

70. Doesn’t stay 71. Guinea and pot-bellied pigs

1. Piano key color 2. Like asbestos, to humans 3. Bohemian, now 4. Complained to another driver 5. Suffer from the heat 6. Impractical flooring material 7. Pizzeria appliance 8. Has an inclination 9. Overact 10. List unit 11. Stranger in a strange land 12. Feature of reading and writing (but not arithmetic) 13. Go out with 21. Frontier legend, Wyatt 22. Frontier legend, Crockett 26. Character voiced by John Goodman in It’s a SpongeBob Christmas!

27. Secret meeting 29. ___ good example 30. Keep in inventory 32. Sofa supporter 33. Left at the ___ (jilted) 34. Humble of status 35. Babysit for 37. In The Wiz, he was played by a schnauzer 39. Wharton grad 43. How cafeteria food is transported 44. Farmers’ Market enclosure 45. Gets one’s bearings 46. Start of Troy, NY’s RPI 50. Strong two-pair hand in poker 53. Performing maintenance on sneakers 55. Gymnast’s pain point 56. Tour of duty 58. “My turn; this round’s ___” 59. McFlurry ingredient 60. Carrot, to a snowman 61. Relaxation locations 62. Cigar residue 63. Wide shoe designation

Answers on page 29.

BALTIMORE BEACON — FEBRUARY 2019

CLASSIFIEDS The Beacon prints classified advertising under the following headings: Business & Employment Opportunities; Caregivers; Computer Services; Entertainment; For Sale; For Sale/Rent: Real Estate; Free; Health; Home/ Handyman Services; Miscellaneous; Personals; Personal Services; Vacation Opportunities; and Wanted. For submission guidelines and deadlines, see the box on the right.

CAVEAT EMPTOR! The Beacon does not knowingly accept obscene, offensive, harmful, or fraudulent advertising. However, we do not investigate any advertisers or their products and cannot accept responsibility for the integrity of either.

Respondents to classified advertising should always use caution and their best judgment.

EMPLOYMENT & REAL ESTATE ADS: We will not knowingly or intentionally accept advertising in violation of federal, state, and local laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, familial status or handicap in connection with employment or the sale or rental of real estate.

Business & Employment Opportunities

Say you saw it in the Beacon

For Sale TWENTY-YEAR COLLECTION of new ceramic tea pots — various shapes of homes and animals — some one of a kind, some of foreign make.

Thirty-one pots and one large cookie jar. Pictures furnished upon request. Also own match box car set in original carry case — fair condition. Best offer. H.R. Williams, 410-308-0114.

For Sale/Rent: Real Estate WE BUY HOUSES!!! CALL 443-415-0790. Are you tired of toilets and tenants, but like the monthly income? Call us for a creative solution to your real estate problems. We buy houses in any condition, any location, any price range. We pay CASH or terms and offer QUICK closings. Call us today at 443-415-0790 or visit www.ikebuyshouses.com.

Health PORTABLE OXYGEN CONCENTRATOR — May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 855-851-0949.

STOP OVERPAYING for your prescriptions!

SAVE! Call our licensed Canadian and International pharmacy, compare prices and get $25.00 OFF your first prescription! CALL 1-888-9817657 Promo Code CDC201725.

A PART-TIME CARPENTRY JOB Where You Can Make a Difference! Second Chance, Inc., a nonprofit near Raven’s Stadium, is seeking an experienced part-time carpenter to work on such projects as interior/exterior renovations, bathrooms, kitchens, framing, painting, finish trim, doors and windows. If you’re interested in joining a business with a heart, we’d love to talk. Contact us: 410-385-1700 x 111 or jobs@secondchanceinc.org. Learn more about us at www.secondchanceinc.org.

DENTAL INSURANCE. Call Physicians Mutual Insurance Company for details. Not just a discount plan, real coverage for 350 procedures. 844-366-1003 or http://www.dental50plus.com/320 Ad# 6118.

Financial

Legal Services

DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK OR BOAT to Heritage for the Blind. Free 3-Day Vacation, Tax Deductible, Free Towing, All Paperwork Taken Care Of. CALL 1-844-855-7670.

SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY? Up to $2,671/mo. (Based on paid-in amount.) Free evaluation! Call Bill Gordon & Associates. 1-866970-0779. Mail: 2420 N St NW, Washington, D.C. Office: Broward Co. FL., member TX/NM Bar.

GOT AN OLDER CAR, VAN OR SUV? Do the humane thing. Donate it to the Humane Society. Call 1-844-230-2952.

GAMEPLAN FOR RETIREMENT. We rollover 401ks, 403bs, IRAs, TSPs, and other work plans to guaranteed and insured lifetime income for you and your spouse! Free Consult!

410-902-0464.

For Sale 2 CEMETERY LOTS at Gardens of Faith Memorial Gardens. $3,000 each. Phone: 443-5303833.

Home/Handyman Services RESIDENTIAL PAINTING: RETIRED PAINTER seeking residential, light commercial work in Baltimore area. Call Mark at 443324-0091. Good work at good prices.

WERE YOU AN INDUSTRIAL OR CONSTRUCTION TRADESMAN and recently diagnosed with lung cancer? You and your family may be entitled to a significant cash reward. Call 1-888-351-0312 for your risk free consultation.

Miscellaneous ENJOY 100% GUARANTEED, DELIVERED to-the-door Omaha Steaks! Save 75% plus get 4 more Burgers & 4 more Kielbasa FREE! Order The Family Gourmet Buffet — ONLY $49.99. Call 1-844-302-3754, mention code 51689JCT or visit www.omahasteaks.com.

NEW PROCEDURE FOR PLACING CLASSIFIED ADS All classified ads must be submitted and paid for online, via our website, www.thebeaconnewspapers.com/classifieds Deadlines and Payments: To appear in the next issue, your ad text and payment must be entered by the 5th of the preceding month (for Baltimore and Howard County editions); by the 20th (for Washington and Richmond editions).

Cost will be based on the number of characters and spaces in your ad: • $25 for 1-250 • $35 for 251-500. • $50 for 501-750 (maximum length). The website will calculate this for you.

Note: Maryland contractors must provide a valid MHIC number. • Each real estate listing qualifies as one ad. • All ads are subject to publisher's discretion. Payment will be refunded if unacceptable for any reason.

To place your classified ad, visit www.thebeaconnewspapers.com/classifieds Personal Services

Wanted

PERFECT RESUME for your DREAM Job. With 2019 upon us, let’s highlight your positives! Whether it’s your 1st job, or your DREAM job, I can help you STAND OUT. Contact me today for a FREE resume analysis. Steve 410585-5700 or SGale328@GMail.com.

ESTATE LIQUIDATION/ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES: One call solves it all when you hire us to handle your estate liquidation, down-sizing and/or home cleanout. We sell your treasures, take care of charitable donations and provide junk removal. We also purchase partial estate contents/collections. Always buying antiques, jewelry, fine art, vintage toys, collectibles, advertising, sports memorabilia, military items, rare books, Mid Century Modern furniture, vinyl records collections and more.

Based in Silver Spring, we serve Montgomery County, Howard County, Baltimore County, Washington D.C., NOVA and beyond. No home, barn or warehouse is too packed for us! Friendly, conscientious staff. Call Chris on cell (202) 731-9447. www.OrionsAttic.com.

TV/Cable DIRECTV. CALL AND SWITCH NOW — Get NFL Sunday Ticket for FREE! Every Game. Every Sunday. CHOICE- All-Included Package. Over 185 Channels. $60/month (for 12 Months.) CALL 1- 888-572-4953.

DISH Network. 190+ CHANNELS. FREE Install. FREE Hopper HD-DVR. $49.99/month (24 months) Add High Speed Internet - $14.95 (where avail.) CALL Today & SAVE 25%! 1844-560-5837.

SPECTRUM TRIPLE PLAY! TV, Internet & Voice for $29.99 ea. 60 MB per second speed. No contract or commitment. More Channels. Faster Internet. Unlimited Voice. Call 1-888-366-7573.

Wanted

CASH FOR JEWELRY: Gold, silver, costume.

Buying whole estates. Gary Roman, 301-5200755. Theatticllc.com.

BUYING VINYL RECORDS from 1950 through 1985. Jazz, Rock-n-Roll, Soul, Rhythm & Blues, Reggae and Disco. 33 1/3 LPs, 45s or 78s, Larger collections of at least 100 items wanted. Please call John, 301-596-6201.

SEEKING FULLS/SEALED BOTTLES of vintage Bourbon and Rye. Do you have full/sealed vintage bottles of bourbon or rye collecting dust in your cabinet? Do any of your bottles have an old red and green tax strip? Call Alex, 443-223-7669.

COLLECTOR BUYING MILITARY ITEMS: Helmets, weapons, knives, swords, bayonets, web gear, uniforms, etc. from all wars and countries. Also Lionel Toy Trains, and coin operated machines. Will pay top prices for my personal collection. Discreet consultations. Call Fred, 301-910-0783.

MONEY, TIME TO SELL! Make the right choice. Call Greg, 717-658-7954. We buy jewelry, coins, silver, antiques, watches, gold, art, paper money, toys, bottles, comic books and records, etc. No middleman, no fees, no overhead means more money for your stuff. Give me a call, and let’s do business. 717-658-7954.

Thank you for reading the Beacon!

ADVERTISERS IN THIS ISSUE Clinical Research Studies

Health

COPD Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Exercise/Weight Loss Study . . .15 Gout Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Knee Osteoarthritis Study . . . . .15 Vitamin D/Sturdy Study . . . . . .14

Curio Wellness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Keswick Wise & Well Center . . .7 Kraus Behavioral Health . . . . . . .8 Patriot Mobility . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Regenerative Medicine . . . . . . .12 Rosenblatt Foot Care . . . . . . . . .13 Senior Care Lifestyles . . . . . . . .11 Skin Cancer EB . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Snyder Center (SCALE) . . . . . . .3

Dental Services Denture Doctor . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Education

Home Health Care

CCBC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Myerberg Center . . . . . . . . . . . .32

Options for Senior America . . . .20

Employment

Housing

The Beacon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

Alta at Regency Crest . . . . . . . . .4 Charlestown/Erickson . . . . . . . .8 Christ Church Harbor Apts. . . . .18 Glynn Taff Assisted Living . . . .21 Linden Park Apartments. . . . . . .20 Oak Crest/Erickson . . . . . . . . . . .8 Rhome Communities . . . . . . . . .26

Government Services Baltimore City Senior Companion Program . . . . . . . .9

31

St. Mary’s Roland View Towers .18 Virginia Towers Apartments . . .21 Warren Place Senior Apartments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Westminster House Apartments 11

Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Manor Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Subscriptions

Legal Services

Beacon Subscription . . . . . . . . .30

Angels of Elder Care Planning .19 Frank, Frank & Scherr Law Firm18

Technology

Medical Cannabis Charm City Medicus . . . . . . . . .21 Herban Legends . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Nature’s Therapy . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Pure Life Wellness . . . . . . . . . . .13

Restaurants

Beacon Silver Pages . . . . . . . . .22 TechMedic4U . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 TheBeaconNewspapers.com . . .22 WOW Computer . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Zinger Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Theatres/Entertainment

Glory Days Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Chesapeake Shakespeare . . . . . .27 Toby’s Dinner Theatre . . . . . . . .27

Shopping

Travel

Because . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9, 11, 13 Perfect Sleep Chair . . . . . . . . . .16

Eyre Bus, Tour & Travel . . . . . .25 Superior Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

32 More at TheBeaconNewspapers.com

FEBRUARY 2019 — BALTIMORE BEACON

| 410-358-6856 856 | myerberg.org

WHAT ’ S N E W AT THE ED WARD A . MY ERBER G CENTER

3101 Fallstaff Road, Baltimore, MD 21209 Get high-tech at the Myerberg! New TECH-Knowledge Hub courses are filling up!

Visit m myyerberrg.orrg to see our complete progrram guide. Call to register for classes today 443-963-1449.

9.

Social Media Monday and Wednesday, February 11 and 13, 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

the great strides Jews have made in American politics over the past 350 years.

Instructor: Harrryy EEzr zrrattty

Members $36 / Non-members $50 (2 sessions) Designed for for intermediate computer users, this workshop will guide you through many of the most popular social media tools used worldwide by internet users of all ages. We will cover Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and more.

Instructor: Melanie W Waxman axman

NEW! Symphonic Stories of Creation and Death Mondays, March 4 - 25, 10:00 - 11:30 a.m.

Members $73 / Non-members $103 (4 sessions) Death can be a most aesthetic journey, especially when set to music.

Beginning with Mozart, The Requiem Mass became one of the most extraordinarily beautiful and artistic statements. In the 19th century, composers such as Verdi, Brahms, Faure and Berlioz all wrote exquisite requiems in diverse styles for very diffffer erent reasons. These works are proffoundly spiritual. An intriguing class regardless of religious background.

Instructor: Jonathan Palevskky

Opera and Broadway Thursday, March 21, 1:00 - 1:45 p.m.

You are invited to attend an afftternoon of live music presented by the Maryland Opera and the Baltimore City Opera Cares proggram. Join us as two singers and a pianist present highlights of Puccini, Verdi and Mozart as well as Gershwin, Rodgers & Hammerstein and favorites from m the golden age of operetta. The program is free for for members and nonmembers mbers, but please make a reservation in advance by calling the Myerberg event reservation line at 443-963-1462.

Independence nce Begins with h CHAI Helping adults age securely ely in our community is now easier than ever. One call does it all.

410-500-5433 (LIFE)

|

chaibaltimore.org

Introduction to Digital Culture Tuesdays and Thursdays, March 5 - 14, 9:00 -10:15 a.m.

Members $54 / Non-members $70 This four-session course offffers ers a guide on how to assimilate to digital culture.

Participants will explore how to use online resources in their everyday lives and the many ways digital culture can meaningfully impact their lives.

By the end of this course, participants will know how to connect to their environment more easily, avoid scams and fraud, identify reliable resources for health research and virtually attend cultural events and museum exhibits.

Instructor: Melanie W Waxman axman

NEW! Jews in American Politics Thursdays, March 7 - 28, 10:00 - 11:30 a.m.

Members $67 / Non-members $97 (4 sessions) Since the early days of America, Jews had to manage politically on their own until the development of pressure groups to represent the Jewish community at large. This course dives into the rise of and dependence on Jewish appointed officials in government and the influence of Jewish thinkers in the press and electronic media. An overview will be presented to demonstrate

FEBRUARY IS HEART HEAL LTH MO ONTH: FITNESS CENTER R DEALS New Members: Wear REED when you join the Fitness Center in February and receive $20 OFF a six month or one year m membership.

Current Members: Get out of the cold and warm up your heart at the Myerberg. Complete our Walkking Path ten times during the month oof February and enter to win a Myerberg prize!