February 2024 | Howard County Beacon

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Finding joy again after a loss

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PHOTO COURTESY OF REBECCA GREGORY

By Glenda C. Booth Rebecca Gregory fell in love with ballroom dancing after she became a widow. It took her four years after her husband’s death to find a passion, but she’s glad she did.

“I started the next chapter,” she said, and it has been “very therapeutic.”

Gregory’s advice to others who have lost a partner: “Don’t get stuck. Try things you’ve never tried before that maybe you did not have the courage to try…It’s okay to still find joy even while grieving. It does not have to be one or the other.”

Every marriage ends one way or another. “Among those 75 years or older who had ever married, 58% of women and 28% of men had experienced the death of a spouse in their lifetime,” reports the U.S. Census Bureau.

In fact, there were 3.7 million widowed men and 11.48 million widowed women in the country in 2022, according to the datagathering platform Statista. Widowed women outnumber widowed men because women, on average, live longer than men.

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Get creative on a day trip to ClayGround Studio with Howard County Recreation & Parks. Other Valentine’s Day trips are available. page 13

Coping with loss Losing a spouse can take a lasting psychological and physical toll on men and women alike.

“At some point, accept what happened so you can start to heal,” counsels Gregory, a resident of Howard County, Maryland. “If you don’t accept it, you’ll stay stuck. And don’t feel guilty about moving forward.”

Getting used to being a single again can be a challenge — from keeping the car running, to cooking for one, to having a social life. At first, it can feel like an emotional tsunami.

“Grief is a whole-body experience,” said Elena Keller, who lost her spouse. She is now executive director of Widow Care, a nonprofit based in Rockville, Maryland.

Rebecca Gregory, a Howard County resident, waltzes with her teacher, Slava Sergiev, at the Promenade Dance Studio in Windsor Mill. Gregory took up ballroom dancing after the death of her husband. “It’s okay to still find joy even while grieving,” she said.

“There’s a reason why you are simply fatigued all the time. You’re also easily confused and forgetful; it’s called ‘widow’s fog.’

“Your brain is trying to comprehend something that doesn’t make sense. Your entire body is working very hard just so you can survive another day,” Keller said.

Some find it hard to concentrate or read, for example. Others lose their appetite or have trouble sleeping.

Support groups are helpful Fortunately, there are many resources for widowed people, from counselors to support groups to online meetings to religious institutions.

Talking about your symptoms with others who are grieving can help. Widow Care leads free support groups on Zoom,

Call now to learn more.

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F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

The last move Those of us who were lucky enough to The staff smile at people and call the resigo to college may have cozy memories of dents by their names. The hallways are imcampus life. Everything we maculate. There’s always someneeded was close by. thing to do. The food smells A short stroll through a better than college grub, too. tree-lined campus led us to the So why do so many of us dining hall, library, gym and vow to live and die at home? classrooms. On the way, we’d An AARP poll found that alrecognize fellow students and most 90 percent of people wave or stop to chat. over age 65 want to stay in It was hard to be lonely in their homes permanently. college. Just outside our My parents seem to be in dorm rooms, there were conthat bucket. They are relucversations to be had in the tant to move because they AS I SEE IT hallways, TV shows to watch want to maintain their

By Margaret Foster together in the common lifestyle: lunches with friends, room, a lawn to flop down on tai chi classes, walks in the a blanket to study, play guitar or shoot the woods. As my father put it recently, breeze with friends.

“Women love retirement homes. Men die Part of me would love to go back to col- within a few months.” lege — to live near my friends again, to He suspects that men don’t make social have every meal prepared for me, to learn connections as quickly as some women, so, new things every day. without enough to do, they decline. (His From my vantage point, at age 52, the own father, who made friends wherever he closest thing to a college campus is a re- went, adored his weekly “Chatterbox Club” tirement community. Every time I stop by with other men at his retirement communione, either for work or a visit, I think, ty.) So my parents are staying put.

“Now this is living.”

My in-laws were also determined to stay

Beacon The

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The Beacon is a monthly newspaper dedicated to inform, serve, and entertain the citizens of the Howard County area, and is privately owned. Other editions serve Greater Baltimore, Md. and Greater Washington, D.C. 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 President/Associate Publisher – Judith K. Rosenthal Executive Vice President – Gordon Hasenei Managing Editor – Margaret Foster Art Director – Kyle Gregory Vice President of Operations – Roger King Advertising Representatives – Steve Levin, M.K. Phillips, Alan Spiegel Marketing & Operations Manager – Ashley Griffin Assistant Editor – Ana Preger Hart

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 23 for classified advertising details. Please mail or email all submissions.

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in the house they’ve lived in for 50 years — a beautiful 100-year-old bungalow that feels warm and welcoming when you walk in the door.

The house where they raised three children has a thousand stories. As John Cheever put it, our lives are “chronicled in scuffed baseboards.”

So many memories there, so many great parties. Their Fourth of July parties were epic: Everyone wore holiday-appropriate costumes (Thomas Jefferson, the Washington Monument, the Statue of Liberty, even Interstate 85) and whooped it up all day and night.

Even now, although my in-laws are hovering around 80, they host us every week for dinner, drinks and laughter.

“We love our house,” my mother-in-law said recently, “and we couldn’t imagine leaving.”

But she and her husband recently put their names on the waitlist of a popular retirement community in Silver Spring, and they’re excited about the upcoming move.

What happened?

Well, first their health wobbled; him

with mobility issues and her with arthritis.

Then it became difficult to keep up with all the work, from laundry to cooking to home repairs.

“Yes, I love the house, but after a while, it becomes a burden,” my mother-in-law said.

They didn’t come to a decision overnight, she said; it was a process that took months, even years. They needed to psychologically accept that the house was too much to handle, she explained, that maybe life would be easier elsewhere.

Besides, the retirement community they chose looks rather fun. Folks were hanging out at the bar, reading the paper.

Others chatted on a bench outside. To me, it sounds ideal, just like a university campus.

And yes, their children and grandchildren will still visit every Sunday. And as for their longtime home, it will make a perfect party venue for a new generation.

Letters to the editor Readers are encouraged to share their opinions 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 email info@thebeaconnewspapers.com.

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

Dear Mr. Rosenthal: Congratulations! The Montgomery County Commission on Aging (CoA) has selected you to receive its “Community for a Lifetime Award” for 2023 in recognition of your work as the publisher of the Beacon newspaper.

The CoA is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for older adults in the county, irrespective of their abilities, income levels or backgrounds.

Your exceptional efforts align perfectly with this mission, earning you this well-deserved recognition. Your commitment shines through as you tirelessly produce the Beacon each month, covering a diverse range of important topics.

Congratulations again. Thank you for all that you do to make Montgomery County a “Community for a Lifetime.” What makes life better for older adults, makes life better for all ages.

David Engel, Chair Montgomery County Commission on Aging Dear Editor: I really enjoy your newspaper. My daughter met your publisher and instantly liked what he said regarding growing older and remaining active.

I’m so glad she arranged for me to receive your publication. Thank you for a

thought provoking, interesting and informative newspaper.

Rebecca Faeder Via website Dear Editor: In reference to your December article, “Who can benefit from a cochlear implant?” I’d like to share my experience.

I lost my hearing from spinal meningitis when I was 5 months old and wore a hearing aid from the age of 5.

I was doing well until my later years when my hearing was worsening, and a hearing aid was no longer helpful.

After a few years of stalling getting a cochlear implant, I finally did so at the age of 73. It was the best thing I could have done. I hear everything, even the tiniest sound, and am able to listen to music.

As the article states, one needs to consult with an otolaryngologist to work through this process. With any surgical procedure, each person has different experiences, but I had no post-surgical issues.

For someone who took so long to pursue this and finally do it, I say to look into it and learn as much as you can to help you decide.

Hollace Goodman Rockville, MD

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H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4

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Ask the Home Care Expert Tom Smith, Business Development Manager, Family & Nursing Care

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ince 1968, Family & Nursing Care has helped tens of thousands of families by providing access to caregivers who help older adults with activities of daily living — including bathing, dressing, mobility assistance, errands, meal prep, light

housekeeping, medication reminders, companionship and more.

Now serving Howard County, Family & Nursing Care is a leading resource for private duty home care services, providing clients and their families with access to compassionate

and expert-level caregivers to help older adults maintain their independence and quality of life as they age. Ninety-eight percent of surveyed clients have said they would recommend these services to a friend or family member.

This month, we asked Tom Smith, Business Development Manager, Family & Nursing Care to explain just what we mean when we talk about “private duty” home care, and how your Long-Term Care Insurance policy can help cover these services.

Q: What is private duty home care?

Q: Does Long-Term Care Insurance help cover costs for private duty home care?

cognitive impairment, dementia or Alzheimer’s.

Family & Nursing Care is unique in having full-time icated to LTCI Managers dedicated igate the helping families navigate often-complex rules and cedures reimbursement procedures associated with LTCII policies. They will ry make a call with every client and their LTCII company, helping ensure clients have a full understanding of their policy’s criteria, benefits

and policyholder responsibilities, as well as next steps for a successful and smooth experience p with the claims process.

A: “Private duty” home care is home care that is paid for “privately” by clients and their families out of their own pocket, or from a long-term care insurance policy, rather than by government programs such as Medicare or Medicaid.

There are no eligibility requirements, and clients are free to use the service on a shortterm or long-term basis. In addition, there is the flexibility to match clients with Caregivers based on skills, preferences and overall compatibility.

A: Yes. If you have a Long-Term Care Insurance (LTCI) policy, this can be a great way to help you pay for Caregiver support.

While a private duty home care company like Family & Nursing Care is not eligible for reimbursement from Medicare, Medicaid or general health insurance, most LTCI policies reimburse their policyholders either a daily, weekly or monthly maximum amount for home care to assist with activities of daily living. Some policies may also have a benefit for home care for specific diagnoses, such as a

d Ę s¾ for $±×s¾ Ę ±Í«ÈÝ For ííĘÝ s¾ÂĘs« Ę ±Í«È « , Family & Nursing Care has helped families rest easy knowing their loved ones are in good hands. When you need home care, and you need it now, × Ęs¾ Ęhere to help.

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F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

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Neanderthal DNA still lives on inside us

By Laura Ungar and Maddie Burakoff Neanderthals live on within us.

These ancient human cousins, and others called Denisovans, once lived alongside our early Homo sapiens ancestors.

They mingled and had children.

We now know that some of who they were never went away — it’s in our genes.

And science is starting to reveal just how much that shapes us.

Using the new and rapidly improving ability to piece together fragments of ancient DNA, scientists are finding that traits inherited from our ancient cousins are still with us now, affecting our fertility, our immune systems, even how our bodies handled the Covid-19 virus.

“We’re now carrying [their] genetic legacies and learning about what that means for our bodies and our health,” said Mary Prendergast, a Rice University archeologist.

In the past few months alone, researchers have linked Neanderthal DNA to a serious hand disease, the shape of people’s noses and various other human traits.

They even inserted a gene carried by Neanderthals and Denisovans into mice to investigate its effects on biology and found

it gave them larger heads and an extra rib.

Much of the human journey remains a mystery. But Dr. Hugo Zeberg of the Karolinska Institute in Sweden said new technologies, research and collaborations are helping scientists begin to answer the basic but cosmic questions: “Who are we?

Where did we come from?”

And the answers point to a profound reality: We have far more in common with our extinct cousins than we ever thought.

Locating the legacy Until recently, the genetic legacy from ancient humans was invisible because scientists were limited to what they could glean from the shape and size of bones.

But there has been a steady stream of discoveries from ancient DNA, an area of study pioneered by Nobel Prize winner Svante Paabo, who first pieced together a Neanderthal genome.

Advances in finding and interpreting ancient DNA have allowed scientists to see things like genetic changes over time to better adapt to environments or through random chance.

It’s even possible to figure out how much genetic material people from differ-

ent regions carry from the ancient relatives our predecessors encountered.

Research shows some African populations have almost no Neanderthal DNA, while those from European or Asian backgrounds have 1% to 2%.

Denisovan DNA is barely detectable in most parts of the world, but makes up 4% to 6% of the DNA of people in Melanesia, which extends from New Guinea to the Fiji Islands.

That may not sound like much, but it adds up: Even though only 100,000 Neanderthals ever lived, “half of the Neanderthal genome is still around, in small pieces scattered around modern humans,” said Zeberg, who collaborates closely with Paabo.

Good and bad elements It’s also enough to affect us in very real ways. Scientists don’t yet know the full extent, but they’re learning it can be both helpful and harmful.

For example, Neanderthal DNA has been linked to autoimmune diseases like Graves’ disease and rheumatoid arthritis.

When Homo sapiens came out of Africa, they had no immunity to diseases in Europe and Asia. But Neanderthals and Denisovans already living there did.

“By interbreeding with them, we got a quick fix to our immune systems, which was good news 50,000 years ago,” said Chris Stringer, a human evolution researcher at the Natural History Museum in London.

On the other hand, “The result today is, for some people, that our immune systems are oversensitive, and sometimes they turn on themselves.”

In 2020, research by Zeberg and Paabo found that a major genetic risk factor for severe Covid-19 is inherited from Neanderthals. “We compared it to the Neanderthal genome, and it was a perfect match,” Zeberg said. “I kind of fell off my chair.”

The following year, they found a set of DNA variants along a single chromosome inherited from Neanderthals had the opposite effect: protecting people from severe Covid.

The list goes on: Research has linked Neanderthal genetic variants to skin and hair color, behavioral traits, skull shape and Type 2 diabetes.

One study found that people who report feeling more pain than others are likely to See NEANDERTHALS, page 5

Exercise is key; it doesn’t matter when

By Julie Corliss The standard advice about exercise is to do about 30 minutes a day, most days of the week. But in terms of heart-related benefits, does it matter if you rack up most of your exercise minutes over just one or two days — as a “weekend warrior” — instead of spreading them out over an entire week?

Earlier research has suggested that both patterns are equally beneficial. But those findings relied on people to self-report their exercise, which can be unreliable.

Now, a study of nearly 90,000 adults who used wristband monitors to record their physical activity has reached a similar conclusion.

“The findings add to the body of literature showing that it doesn’t matter when you get your exercise, as long as you get the recommended amount each week,” said Dr. I-Min Lee, a professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School and an expert on the role of physical activity in preventing disease.

Volume matters more than pattern The study, published this July in JAMA, doesn’t define the term “weekend warrior” in quite the same way as most people do, said Dr. Lee. “Usually, weekend warriors are seen as people who don’t exercise on weekdays, but then take a long hike or play two hours of tennis on Saturday or Sunday,” she said.

Instead, researchers used participants’ physical activity data, recorded over seven consecutive days, to categorize them into groups. About two-thirds of them met the federal physical activity guidelines.

About 42% were deemed “weekend warriors,” meaning they met the guidelines but got half or more of their total physical activity — not just exercise — on just one or two days. Another 24% were “regularly active,” meeting the guidelines with activity spread out over the week. The remaining 34% didn’t meet the guidelines.

After roughly six years, the researchers

found that participants who followed either activity pattern had a similarly lower risk of heart attack, stroke, atrial fibrillation and heart failure compared with people in the inactive group.

Historically, experts have encouraged people to be regularly active, mainly because anecdotal reports suggest that weekend warriors may be more prone to injuries.

But this study found no difference in injury rates between the two active groups.

That’s likely because of the definition used in the study: the “warrior” group wasn’t necessarily doing the types of high-intensity activities or sports often associated with muscle sprains and related injuries, Dr. Lee said.

Short bouts of activity count Wristband devices enable researchers to capture all the short bouts of activity people do throughout the day that they may not remember.

“If you do jumping jacks occasionally while watching television, you won’t necessarily recall that activity the way you remember that you play tennis three times a week,” said Dr. Lee. Similarly, people whose daily commutes include a few 10-minute bouts of walking may not consider that as counting toward their moderate-intensity activity minutes.

But these small spurts of activity — sometimes referred to as exercise “snacks” — seem to be beneficial.

If you’re sitting for a long stretch, stand up and move around for a few minutes every hour. Activating your muscles, even just briefly, can help improve your body’s ability to keep your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol in check.

It’s also worth noting that if you don’t meet the physical activity guidelines, you’ll still benefit from doing even small amounts of exercise — and every minute counts. © 2023 by Harvard University

From page 4 carry a Neanderthal pain receptor. Another found that a third of women in Europe inherited a Neanderthal receptor for the hormone progesterone, which is associated with increased fertility and fewer miscarriages.

Scientists have even found evidence of “ghost populations” — groups whose fossils have yet to be discovered — within modern humans’ genetic code.

So, why did we survive?

In the past, the tale of modern humans’ survival “was always told as some success story, almost like a hero’s story,” in which Homo sapiens rose above the rest of the natural world and overcame the “insufficiencies” of their cousins, said Rick Potts, director of the Human Origins Program at the Smithsonian Institution.

“Well, that simply is just not the correct story.”

Neanderthals and Denisovans had already existed for thousands of years by the time Homo sapiens left Africa.

Scientists used to think we won out because we had more complex behavior and superior technology. But recent research shows that Neanderthals talked, cooked with fire, made art objects, had sophisticated tools and hunting behavior, and even wore makeup and jewelry.

Several theories now tie our survival to our ability to travel far and wide. “We spread all over the world, much more than these other forms did,” Zeberg said.

While Neanderthals were specially adapted to cold climates, Potts said, Homo sapiens were able to disperse to all different kinds of climates after emerging in tropical Africa. “We are so adaptable, culturally adaptable, to so many places in the world,” he said.

Meanwhile, Neanderthals and Denisovans faced harsh conditions in the north, like repeated ice ages and ice sheets that likely trapped them in small areas, said Eleanor Scerri, an archeologist at Germany’s Max Planck Institute for Geoanthropology. They lived in smaller populations with a greater risk of genetic collapse.

Plus, we had nimble, efficient bodies, Prendergast said. It takes a lot more calories to feed stocky Neanderthals than comparatively skinny Homo sapiens, so Neanderthals had more trouble getting by and moving around, especially when food got scarce.

Janet Young, curator of physical anthropology at the Canadian Museum of History, pointed to another intriguing hypothesis (which anthropologist Pat Shipman shared in one of her books) — that dogs played a big part in our survival.

Researchers found the skulls of domesticated dogs in Homo sapiens sites much further back in time than anyone had found before. Scientists believe dogs made hunting easier.

By around 30,000 years ago, all the other kinds of hominins on Earth had died off, leaving Homo sapiens as the last humans standing.

The debt we owe Still, every new scientific revelation points to how much we owe our ancient cousins.

Human evolution was not about “survival of the fittest and extinction,” said John Hawks, a paleoanthropologist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. It’s about “interaction and mixture.”

Researchers expect to learn more as science continues to advance, allowing them to extract information from ever-tinier traces of ancient lives. Even when fossils aren’t available, scientists today can capture DNA from soil and sediment where archaic humans once lived.

And there are less-explored places in the world where they hope to learn more.

Zeberg said “biobanks” that collect biological samples will likely be established in more countries.

As they delve deeper into humanity’s ge-

netic legacy, scientists expect to find even more evidence of how much we mixed with our ancient cousins and all they left us.

“Perhaps,” Zeberg said, “we should not see them as so different.”

—AP

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Health Shorts Return of free Covid tests, telemed visits Last month, the federal government expanded the Home Test to Treat program — a virtual health program that offers free Covid-19 health services including athome rapid tests, telehealth sessions and

at-home treatments.

Home Test to Treat, which is a collaboration of the National Institutes of Health, the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, launched as a pilot in select locations earlier this year.

With its expansion, the Home Test to Treat program will now offer nationwide free testing, telehealth and treatment for both Covid-19 and for influenza (flu) A and B. It is the first public health program that includes home-testing technology at such a scale for both Covid-19 and the flu. The pro-

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gram provides Pfizer’s Covid-19 & Flu Home Test, the first FDA-authorized test that can detect both viruses in a single test at home.

For people who test positive, treatment must begin soon after the onset of symptoms. Test to Treat provides these services virtually, while individuals remain at home, to expedite the time to treatment and the convenience of accessing services virtually from home.

Any adult (18 years and older) with a current positive test for Covid-19 or the flu can enroll to receive free telehealth care and, if prescribed, medication delivered to their home. Adults who do not have Covid-19 or the flu may enroll and receive free tests if they are uninsured or are enrolled in Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs health care system, or the Indian Health Services.

If recipients test positive at a future time, they can receive free telehealth care and, if prescribed, treatment.

For more information or to obtain help, visit test2treat.org or call 1-800-682-2829.

—National Institutes of Health

Ironically, excessive fear of illness raises risk of death

an excessive fear of serious illness: They tend to die earlier than people who aren’t hypervigilant about their health.

Hypochondriasis, now called illness anxiety disorder, is a rare condition with symptoms that go beyond average health worries. People with the disorder are unable to shake their fears despite normal physical exams and lab tests.

Some may change doctors repeatedly.

Others may avoid medical care.

“Many of us are mild hypochondriacs.

But there are also people on the other extreme of the spectrum who live in a perpetual state of worry and suffering and rumination about having a serious illness,” said Dr. Jonathan E. Alpert of Montefiore Medical Center in New York.

People with the disorder are suffering, and “it’s important to take it seriously and to treat it,” said Alpert, who was not involved in the new study.

Treatment can involve cognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques, education and sometimes antidepressant medication.

The researchers found that people with the diagnosis have an increased risk of death from both natural and unnatural causes, particularly suicide.

Chronic stress and its impact on the body could explain some of the differ-

A large Swedish study has uncovered a paradox about people diagnosed with

See HEALTH SHORTS, page 8

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Makes a great gift! | Fitness & Health

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Help for nagging cough; coping with grief

By Howard LeWine, M.D. Q: I can’t shake this dr y cough.

It’s been more than a month. Otherwise, I feel OK. Do I need to worr y, and what can I do to help relieve it?

A: First, I want to know if you were ever a smoker and whether you had cold symptoms or COVID-19 before the cough began.

When someone has a cough lasting longer than five to six weeks, and perhaps even sooner for smokers, I usually order a chest x-ray or CT scan to check for an underlying lung problem.

It’s common to still have a cough for weeks after a viral upper respiratory infection. After the infection is long gone, inflamed tissues and hypersensitive nerves can persist in the larynx (voice box), trachea (windpipe) or bronchi (airways).

These changes can last for much longer than people realize. In addition to a nagging cough, many people also develop wheezing.

In these cases, I usually prescribe an albuterol inhaler (Proventil, Ventolin, generic versions) to use as needed. Adults can take up to two puffs every four to six hours. If this does not control the cough, sometimes an inhaler that contains a corticosteroid can be added.

Coughing also can be a side effect of medications, particularly ACE inhibitors, such as lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril, others) or enalapril (Vasotec), that are used to treat high blood pressure and heart disease.

The other common causes of a persistent cough in a nonsmoker with clear lungs and a normal chest x-ray are postnasal drip, acid reflux and undiagnosed asthma.

Sometimes, people don’t have typical symptoms associated with these conditions. For example, a person might not have nasal congestion yet still have postnasal drip. Acid reflux can cause a cough without heartburn. And sometimes, people with asthma don’t notice wheezing.

When there are no clues to the possible cause of a chronic cough, I often first recommend a decongestant, with or without an antihistamine, to treat possible postnasal drip.

If that doesn’t help, address the possibility of acid reflux. This includes not lying down for three hours after eating, eating smaller meals, and taking a proton-pump inhibitor like omeprazole (Prilosec).

If these approaches don’t help, additional diagnostic tests may be needed. These could include breathing tests to detect undiagnosed asthma or checking for acid in the upper esophagus.

Many over-the-counter cold products claim to reduce cough. If you try a cough suppressant, look for one that contains the ingredient dextromethorphan. While clinical study results are mixed, most studies

Tell them you saw it in the Beacon!

suggest it decreases cough compared with a placebo.

Q: I tend to hold on to grief. What steps can I take to ease the pain?

A: We associate grief most commonly with the passing of a family member, friend or pet. But it can also arise if someone you know suffers a permanent healthrelated setback, such as dementia, stroke or cancer diagnosis.

Grief can also occur from sudden changes in health or important life events, like a recent move or the end of a relationship, or after witnessing traumatic events, such as what is happening in the Middle East conflict.

No matter the source, grief can cause deep emotional and physical pain. Grief can manifest as any combination of sadness, hopelessness, depression, numbness, anger and guilt.

It also can trigger problems like forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating and fatigue.

Going through the grieving process is essential to healing, no matter how long it lasts.

The first step is to allow yourself to grieve.

Don’t keep it inside and hope it goes away.

Other strategies can help you navigate through your grief. For example: Do community outreach. If your grief is related to someone’s death, reach out to their family, friends, neighbors and co-workers. Learning more about the person from others and sharing stories helps everyone through the process. Plus, you can fill the role of listener, which is so helpful for other grieving people.

Talk it out. Talking about feelings can be challenging. Yet it’s often the best way to confront grief. It can help to open up to a close friend or someone else you trust. Or you may wish to consult with a professional therapist.

Explore spirituality. Spirituality can be a powerful healing tool no matter what form

it takes. Thinking about the natural course of life and death can be quite transformative.

Eat well. Having a well-balanced diet can help you withstand the stress of grieving. That means eating plenty of vegetables, fruits and lean proteins, and drinking plenty of water.

Take your medications. Grief makes people more vulnerable to illness, so it’s vital that you keep taking your regular medications.

Get enough sleep. Grief can make you feel exhausted, but it’s important to keep a regular sleep schedule. If you feel tired during the day, a 20-minute afternoon nap can help.

Exercise daily. Stick to your regular exercise routine or any movement like walking, cycling or yoga. ©2023 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Variety of ways to ease the winter blues Dear Savvy Senior, affect the body. It can also cause a drop in What can you tell me about seasonal the brain chemical serotonin, which afaffective disorder? I’ve alfects mood, and can increase ways disliked winter, but the levels of the hormone since I retired and am melatonin, which can make home a lot more, the gray, you feel mor e tir ed and cold winter months make lethargic. me feel really blue.

If you think you may have —Sad Sam SAD, a trip to your doctor’s Dear Sam, office is the best way to diagIf you get depressed in the nose it, or you can take a SAD winter but feel better in spring “self-assessment” test at the and summer, you may indeed Center for Environmental have seasonal affective disor- SAVVY SENIOR T h e r a p e u t i c s w e b s i t e a t der (SAD) — a wintertime de- By Jim Miller CET.org/assessments. pression that affects roughly If you have SAD, here are 5% of Americans. several treatment options and remedies In most cases, SAD is related to the loss that can help: of sunlight in the winter months. Reduced sunlight can upset natural sleep-wake cy- Light therapy cles and other circadian rhythms that can The most effective treatment for SAD is

sitting in front of a specialized light therapy box for 20 to 30 minutes a day within the first hour of waking up in the morning.

Light therapy mimics outdoor light to cause a change in brain chemicals linked to mood.

While you can buy a light box without a prescription, it’s best to use it under the guidance of a healthcare provider and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Most health insurance plans do not cover the cost.

The best light therapy lamps provide 10,000 lux of illumination, many times stronger than typical indoor light, and have a diffuser screen that filters out ultraviolet rays and projects downward toward the eyes. [For more about this, see “SADder in the winter? Try light therapy” in the November Beacon.]

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Cognitive behavioral therapy Even though SAD is considered to be a biological problem, identifying and changing thought and behavior patterns can help alleviate symptoms, too.

To help you with this, choose a therapist who specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy and who has experience in treating SAD. To locate someone in your area, Psychology Today offers a search tool (PsychologyToday.com/us/therapists/ cognitive-behavioral-cbt).

See WINTER BLUES, page 9

Health shorts From page 6 ence, the authors wrote.

Older research had suggested the risk of suicide might be lower for people with the condition, but “our hunch, based on clinical experience, was that this would be incorrect,” said David Mataix-Cols, of the Karolinska Institute in Sweden, who led the recent research.

In the study, the risk of suicide death was four times higher for the people with the diagnosis.

They looked at 4,100 people diagnosed with hypochondriasis and matched them with 41,000 people similar in age, sex and county of residence. They used a measurement called person years, which accounts for the number of people and how long they were tracked.

Overall death rates were higher in the people with hypochondriasis, 8.5 versus 5.5 per 1,000 person years. People with the condition died younger than the others, a mean age of 70 versus 75. Their risk of death from circulatory and respiratory diseases was higher. Cancer was an exception; the risk of death was about the same.

Referring an excessively anxious patient to mental health professionals takes care, said Alpert, who leads the American Psychiatric Association’s council on research. Patients can be offended, because they feel they’re being accused of imagining symptoms.

“It takes a great deal of respect and sensitivity conveyed to patients that this itself is a kind of condition, that it has a name,” Alpert said. “And, fortunately, there are good treatments.”

—AP

To subscribe, see page 22.

Makes a great gift! | Fitness & Health

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4

Winter blues From page 8

Antidepressants Some people with SAD benefit from antidepressant treatments, too. Some proven medications to ask your doctor about are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and the extended-release antidepressant bupropion.

BEACON BITS

Ongoing MARYLAND

ACCESS POINT Maryland Access

Point of Howard County is a free service that offers information about resources available for older adults and people with disabilities. It also runs a loan closet in Columbia for people over 60. For more information, call (410) 313-1234 or email map@howardcountymd.gov or make an appointment at the loan closet by calling (410) 313-0363.

Feb. 2

SPOT MEDICARE SCAMS Learn about current

Medicare scams and get answers to your questions. The Howard County Office of Consumer Protection and the Senior Health Insurance Program will host a presentation on Medicare scams at 10 a.m. on Fri., Feb. 2 at

Keep in mind that it may take several weeks to notice the full benefits of an antidepressant. In addition, you may have to try different medications before you find one that works well for you and has the fewest side effects.

Lifestyle remedies Some other things you can do to help al-

leviate your SAD symptoms include making your environment sunnier and brighter.

So, open up your blinds, sit closer to bright windows and get outside as much as you can.

Even on cold or cloudy days, outdoor light can help, especially if you spend some time outside within two hours of getting up in the morning.

Moderate exercise such as walking, swimming, yoga and even tai chi can also help alleviate SAD symptoms, as can social activities.

Send your questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior book.

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F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Ways apples can help with weight loss

By Novella Lui, RD, M.H.Sc. There is such a range of tips and diets promising weight-loss results, it’s easy to forget that some everyday foods can add volume to your meals and snacks without adding many calories.

Apples are an excellent option for a healthy weight-loss diet. The sweet and tart fruit is budget-friendly, convenient and loaded with nutrients.

Here are some reasons why registered dieticians say apples have an edge when it comes to losing weight.

Low in calories: Apples help to promote weight loss because they are naturally low in calories. Depending on size, apples provide 80 to 130 calories per fruit.

The natural sugars in apples can also help keep cravings for sweets at bay, according to Melissa Mitri, MS, RDN, a nutrition writer and owner of Melissa Mitri Nutrition.

High in fiber: The main mechanism in weight loss is reducing your calorie intake. Foods that have fiber can help you eat less because they are satiating.

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Apples are one of these foods that promote fullness. According to the USDA, an apple packs 4 to 5 grams of fiber, providing about 12% to 16% of your recommended daily fiber intake.

Low-glycemic food: The glycemic index, a relative ranking system, measures how fast and how much certain foods’ sugars raise your blood sugar levels. According to the American Diabetes Association, apples are a low-glycemic food, with a glycemic index between 34 and 38, depending on the variety, meaning they won’t cause blood sugar spikes after eating.

High in fluids: Apples are so juicy because of their high water content, with water making up around 85% of their weight. Along with fiber, the moisture in apples keeps you full and hydrated, helping temper your appetite.

Rich in antioxidants: One of the reasons you could experience weight gain could be due to increased inflammation in the body. Apples have anti-inflammatory benefits due to their antioxidant nutrients.

A 2022 review in the Journal of Inflammation Research indicates that quercetin, a type of antioxidant flavonoid (plant pigment) found in apples, may have anti-inflammatory properties to ward off insulin resistance and the development of atherosclerosis.

Convenient snack: Apples are a

quick and convenient snack that you will need to chew and swallow, pacing you so you can fully listen to your body for fullness cues.

Just part of a healthy diet Apples have beneficial nutrients your body needs, but eating the fruit alone can’t help promote weight loss.

Rather, eating a wide array of foods that includes nutritious carbs, protein and unsaturated fats could support managing a healthy weight.

• Enjoy them as a snack with protein: One classic way to eat apples is by pairing them with nut butter or cheese to make a filling snack.

• Add them to your morning meal: Start with a nutritious and filling breakfast to help set the tone for the day. This way, you will be less likely to experience the symptoms of skipping meals, such as anxiety, low energy and cravings.

• Include them in your mains: Who says apples are only for desserts? Apples go great with savory dishes, creating endless possibilities of flavor.

EatingWell is a magazine and website devoted to healthy eating as a way of life.

Online at eatingwell.com. © 2023 Dotdash Meredith. All rights reserved. Used with permission. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Makes a great gift! | Fitness & Health

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4

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Acid reflux is common; so are remedies My son, Michael, a lover of spicy Zantac: Now contains famotidine, previcuisines, once accepted a taco-eating chal- ously recalled as ranitidine. lenge in Orlando. After conPepcid AC (Famotidine): suming 20-something street Reduces acid production and is tacos complete with spicy suitable for persistent sympsalsa, he felt the aftermath, toms. Requires caution for kidleading him to seek antacids. ney problems.

But acid reflux doesn’t only Pepcid Complete: Comaffect food contestants. bines Famotidine with calcium In fact, approximately 20% carbonate and magnesium hyof Americans suffer from gasdroxide for immediate and longtroesophageal reflux disease lasting relief. Not for chronic (GERD), a more severe form DEAR GERD without medical advice. of acid reflux. Symptoms vary PHARMACIST Nexium (Esomeprazole): from heartburn and regurgi- By Suzy Cohen A proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) tation to dental erosion. A reducing acid production, destudy also indicates that people with celiac signed for long-term treatment. However, disease may experience more GERD. long-term use risks magnesium deficiency When choosing an acid reducer, consid- and bone fractures. er both traditional and natural options. It’s Mylanta: Mixes antacids and alginic acid important to understand each option’s for quick relief and stomach protection. Caumechanism and suitability to your condition tion for interactions with other medications. and to speak to a practitioner in the know.

Prilosec (Omeprazole): Another PPI Here’s a brief overview of both types of for treating GERD and ulcers, suitable for treatments. chronic conditions. Long-term use can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency and kidney disease.

Protonix (Pantoprazole): A prescripTraditional antacids TUMS (Calcium Carbonate): Offers tion drug effective for severe acid reflux quick relief by neutralizing stomach acid, and esophageal damage. Similar precauideal for mild heartburn. People with kid- tions as other PPIs. Zegerid OTC (Omeprazole with Sodiney issues should use caution.

BEACON BITS

Feb. 3

EVENING OF IRISH MUSIC AND POETRY Author Darragh McKeon will read from his new novel,

Remembrance Sunday, at HoCoPoLitSo’s annual Evening of Irish Music and Poetry on Sat., Feb. 3 at 7:30 p.m. Irish beverages, scones and books will be for sale, and an Irish band will perform. The event will be held at Smith Theatre, Howard Community College, Campus Dr., Columbia. General in-person admission is $45. For more information see hocopolitso.org/irish-evening.

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um Bicarbonate): Combines PPI with an antacid for immediate and sustained relief.

Caution for those on a low-sodium diet.

Natural alternatives Mastic gum: Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, suitable for mild symptoms.

You should avoid if allergic to tree sap.

Zinc carnosine: This is not the same supplement as chelated zinc, which is used to increase levels of zinc in the body. Zinc carnosine supports the gut lining and is ideal for GI problems and acid reflux.

Marshmallow root: Offers protective mucilage, ideal for gentle relief. Not recommended for diabetics or those on diuretics. I have a YouTube video of me making this infusion if you want to find it.

Aloe vera gel supplements: These can soothe the stomach lining and are ideal

for gastrointestinal discomfort. Use juice prepared for internal use only and start with smaller amounts to gauge tolerability.

Apple cider vinegar: Balances stomach acidity, suitable for mild symptoms. Must be diluted, not for ulcers or esophagitis.

The best thing to do, of course, is to avoid trigger foods like spicy tacos and citrus items. Eating smaller portions and avoiding heavy meals before exercise can also help.

For a longer version of this article, see my website, suzycohen.com.

This information is opinion only. It is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Consult with your doctor before using any new drug or supplement.

Suzy Cohen is a registered pharmacist and author of The 24-Hour Pharmacist and Real Solutions from Head to Toe.

BEACON BITS

Feb. 3

COLUMBIA ORCHESTRA CONCERT

Under the baton of conductor Richard Scerbo, the Columbia Orchestra will perform classical masterpieces alongside modern compositions (Sergei Prokofiev’s Fifth Symphony, Richard Strauss and Carlos Simon). Scerbo calls it “one big party for the orchestra.” The concert will take place at the Jim Rouse Theatre on Sat., Feb. 3 at 7:30 p.m. A pre-concert chat with the conductor begins at 6:30 p.m. For tickets, go to columbiaorchestra.org or call (410) 465-8777.

12

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Recreation & Parks

F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Upcoming Programs for 55 Years +

To view all of our programs and activities, visit www.HowardCountyMD.gov/rap.

Fitness • Info: Tessa Hurd, 410-313-7311or thurd@howardcountymd.gov.

Mat Core with Taylor Williams, GFI

Dance • Info: Tessa Hurd, 410-313-7311 or thurd@howardcountymd.gov.

Dancing for Fun Mixer Enjoy moving to the music while trying a variety of dance styles.

From line dancing to ballroom, swing to Latin, we try them all!

This class led by instructor Tom Sellner gives you the chance to get active and have some fun! No partner necessary.

55 yrs + Roger Carter CC Classes: 4 No class 3/12 RP3513.603 Feb 20 9:15-10am Tu $45

Encore Adventure Series • Matt Medicus, 410-313-1769 or mmedicus@howardcountymd.gov.

Intro to Rock Climbing Anyone can climb! Learn the basics of indoor rock climbing including equipment, safety and movement techniques as you climb to new heights. Experience this fitness activity to your level of comfort with our highly trained instructors and learn new techniques to add to your routine. Rock climbing is a core workout. Good climbing technique builds balance, focus and leg strength.

55 yrs + Roger Carter CC Classes: 1 RP9171.601 Feb 6 9:30-11am Tu $39

Blend classic Pilates exercises with yoga movements that focus on strength and flexibility using resistance bands and light weights. This total-body workout is designed to strengthen small muscles (triceps, shoulders, biceps, and calves) and large muscles (hamstrings, back and chest) leaving you with increased agility in everyday movements.

55 yrs + Cedar Lane Rec Ctr Classes: 12 No class 2/19 RP3586.601 Jan 22 11:30am-12:30pm M,W $89

Zumba Gold with Freedom Fitness Do you want to move to motivating music, but feel unsure about the steps? Zumba Gold is for you! The easy-to-follow moves focus on balance, range of motion, and coordination.

Come ready to sweat and prepare to leave feeling empowered.

This class focuses on all elements of fitness: cardiovascular, muscular conditioning, flexibility, and balance.

55 yrs + Kiwanis-Wallas Hall Classes: 10 No class 3/7 RP3595.602 Feb 15 9-10am Tu,Th $85

Yoga for Bone Strength with Kathy Greisman Help stimulate your bone growth with gentle yoga movements.

Join us in this class that helps build strength, flexibility and stability. Bring a yoga mat.

55 yrs + Belmont Classes: 10 RP3566.602 Feb 28 11:30am-12:30pm M,W $89

Scan the QR code or visit tinyurl.com/activeaging55 for more 55 yrs + programs!

Makes a great gift!

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4

13

• Info: Tracy Adkins, 410-313-7279 or tadkins@howardcountymd.gov.

Meet You There! Valentine’s Candle Creations

Lifelong Learning • Info: Tessa Hurd, 410-313-7311or thurd@howardcountymd.gov.

How to Use Your Phone/Tablet Effectively Learn how to get more use out of your mobile devices (smartphone, iPad). Discover social media and how to use it to stay in contact with family members, or receive important information automatically. Bring your smart phone, computer or tablet.

55 yrs + Instructor: Constance Lowe Classes: 1 RP3523.602 N Laurel CC Feb 16 10-11am F $25

Nature & Environment • Info: 410-313-0400

Sr. Naturalist Program: Maple Sugaring Join us at the Robinson Nature Center for our Sr. Naturalist program! The program provides a foundation of understanding on a variety of topics through hands-on exploration and demonstrations in a casual, social atmosphere. No prior experience needed. Discover all the magic that the maple tree brings by tapping a tree for sap, tasting syrup, and learning historical cooking methods.

50 yrs + Robinson Nature Ctr Days: 1 RP4831.602 Feb 21 3-4:30pm W $15

Sports & Leagues • For info, visit www.hcrpsports.org.

• Sign up for the following programs has begun!

Aquatics Badminton Baseball Basketball Billiards Cricket

Fencing Field Hockey Football Golf Jump Rope Kickball

Lacrosse Martial Arts Pickleball Soccer Softball

Squash Tennis Therapeutic Rec Volleyball

Whether you’re seeking a luxurious scented candle for relaxation, a charming gift for a loved one, or an opportunity to explore your creativity through candle making – this activity is exciting! Step into a realm of enchantment and indulge in the mesmerizing glow of captivating aromas candles provide.

18 yrs + Candle Making Studio, Columbia Walking from car to seat (must provide own transportation) RP4596.601 Feb 8 11am-3pm Th $69

Meet You There! Valentine’s Day Tea at Sweet Simplici-Tea Join us for this whimsical Valentine’s Day-themed afternoon tea! Sweet Simplici-Tea is a delightful bakery and gift shop located in historic downtown Sykesville. It is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy an afternoon tea/lunch with friends as their menu is undeniably delicious! This venue is always popular; space is limited and sells out quickly.

18 yrs + Sweet Simplici-Tea, Sykesville Walking from car to seat (must provide own transportation) RP4578.601 Feb 9 10:30am-1:30pm F $99

Meet You There! ClayGround Pottery – Valentine’s Day Creations Most people in this class have never used a pottery wheel, so there’s a lot of experimenting, laughter and encouraging each other. Enjoy being guided through the steps needed to turn your clay into a simple piece (a vase, cup or bowl).

Create lasting memories and something to use!

18 yrs + ClayGround Studio, Ellicott City Walking from car to seat (must provide own transportation) RP4571.601 Feb 14 10:45am-1pm W $75

Scan the QR code or visit tinyurl.com/RPtrips for more trips & tours!

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F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

A Publication of the Department of Community Resources and Services

Eating for a healthy heart

F

ollowing a balanced diet can help lower your using risk for heart disease. But instead of focusing on foods to avoid, it’s better to aim for an overall healthful meal pattern. Over time, studies show heart-healthy meals can improve blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol, which helps reduce long-term risks for heart disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and certain forms of cancer.

Include a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains rather than refined grains, and wholesome protein choices like fish and seafood, legumes and nuts and low-fat or fat-free dairy products. If you prefer to eat meat, choose leaner cuts and limit your intake of processed meats high in salt and saturated fat like sausages, hot dogs and deli meats. To avoid adding salt to recipes, try a variety of herbs and spices instead, to enhance the flavor, aroma and color of foods.

Evidence shows many spices and herbs also possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and can lower glucose and cholesterol levels that affect cognition and mood (nih.gov).

Finding heart-healthy recipes that are good for your heart and your taste buds is easier than ever, especially online. To learn more about strategies for healthful eating including recipe demonstrations, check out OAI’s free nutrition education classes below. Sign-up online, in-person or call the Center directly. For a personalized approach, schedule a free one-on-one nutrition education session with a registered dietitian nutritionist at a 50+ Center near you.

Nutrition Classes Crispy Veggie Pancake Bain 50+ Center • February 6, 11 a.m.

Volume 14, No. 2 • February 2024

A message from Howard County Executive

Calvin Ball

T

he 2024 theme for Black History Month is African Americans and the Arts, and our 50+ Centers are celebrating by offering programming that celebrates the contributions of African Americans to the arts, including music, literature, visual arts, and film.

I invite you all to visit a 50+ Center and take part in one or more of the following: On February 15, at 11:30 a.m., the Ellicott City 50+ Center will feature History Channel videos focused on Voices of Civil Rights. Join us for a fascinating look at the Civil Rights Movement told through the small, personal stories of people who lived through this turbulent time.

We are also partnering with our Howard County Public Library System for a presentation by librarians who will discuss books celebrating Black History, on February 6, at 10 a.m. at the North Laurel 50+ Center.

At our Bain 50+ Center, on February 9 at 1 p.m., we’re hosting the "Sound of Freedom,” a therapeutic drumming activity where participants will drum continuously for 20-30 minutes. The purpose of this activity is to set you free from anxiety, depression, stress, or whatever it is that you feel is weighing heavily on you.

The playing of the drums (the Sound of Freedom) in rhythmic unison will release your negative energy and boost your mood. It is fun, entertaining and therapeutic.

Register for any of all these activities via ActiveNet. I look forward to celebrating all month long, and beyond! I hope to see you around the County doing the same.

LET’S REACH SOME FITNESS GOALS TOGETHER! Prizes will be awarded to participants who have achieved 16 workouts at the end of the challenge, which runs from Feb. 1 through Mar. 28, 2024!

An eight-week fitness challenge. Attend fitness classes or exercise at one of the four participating 50+ Centers.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Balls Ellicott City 50+ Center • February 16, 10:30 a.m.

Healthy Tuna Salad North Laurel 50+ Center • February 21, 10 a.m.

Fresh Conversations: Eating Heart Healthy Elkridge 50+ Center • February 12, 1 p.m.

North Laurel 50+ Center • February 24, 11 a.m.

Take the Challenge at Bain • Ellicott City • North Laurel • East Columbia FOR MORE INFORMATION

Sherri Lively

GROUP FITNESS CERTIFIED, NUTRITION COACH

410-313-1404 (VOICE/RELAY) | slively@howardcountymd.gov

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4

The 50+ Connection

Makes a great gift!

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Join oin ou our Winter i te Workshops ork ksshho s ks Intro to Heart Rate Monitoring Apps BAIN 50+ CENTER

Lunar New Year Celebration GLENWOOD 50+ CENTER February 7, 11 a.m. / A03603.600 Celebrate the Year of the Dragon with a cooking demo and luncheon.

Glenwood member Lorraine Clemmer shares how to make Chinese Dumplings. Enjoy a tradi onal lunch a er the program. Registra on is required; cost is $15.

Black History Month: A Sound of Freedom BAIN 50+ CENTER February 9, 1 p.m. / A01541.600 The "Sound of Freedom" is a therapeu c drumming ac vity in which par cipants drum con nuously for 20 to 30 minutes. Doing so helps reduce anxiety, depression and stress, transform nega ve energy, and elevate your mood. Free; register in advance.

Intergenerational Valentine’s Day Fun: Cards, Crafts & Cookies

February 16, 10 a.m. / A01189.600 Curious about your heart rate, but not ready to commit to a fitness tracker? There's an app for that! Learn about popular and free heart rate monitor apps; review the benefits of tracking your heart rate; and discuss recommended physical ac vity and heart rate zones. Contact Malarie Burgess at mburgess@howardcountymd.gov or 410-313-7213 to register.

Free; walk-ins welcome.

Smartphone Series NORTH LAUREL 50+ CENTER Tuesdays, February 6, 13, 20, 27, 10:30 a.m. / A20673.614 Bring your phone and join us on Tuesday mornings to learn: Week 1: Smartphone basics Week 2: Get to know your smartphone Week 3: Smartphone photography Week 4: Exploring/downloading mobile apps Walk-ins welcome; email mburgess@howardcountymd.gov or call 410-313-0380 to register.

Kick-Out Cancer Event

NORTH LAUREL 50+ CENTER

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February 14, 10 a.m. / A06902.602 Join in the fun making cards and cra s with preschool kids, then enjoy a treat of Valen ne’s Day cookies together. Call 410-313-0380 to register.

February 7, 8:45 a.m. / A01435.600 In honor of World Cancer Day, we are partnering with the Claudia Mayer/Tina Broccolino Cancer Resource Center to offer a cardio kickboxing class, led by OAI Fitness Coordinator, Michelle Rosenfeld. This hybrid event will highlight local cancer resources. Dress in a ribbon color represen ng a type of cancer; $5 dona on supports the Cancer Resource Center.

Tech Café EAST COLUMBIA 50+ CENTER February 20, 3 p.m. / Call 410-313-7680 to register Bring in your new gadgets and meet our geniuses in the Tech Café from the Columbia Youth and Teen Program. Overcome your technology frustra ons as you master new skills. Free; refreshments served.

Loving Ourselves, Loving Others ELLICOTT CITY 50+ CENTER February 21 • 1 p.m. / A02301.600 Examine ways to be caring and compassionate even in challenging mes. Discuss connec ng with others, rela onships and emo onal well-being. Presented by Karen Hull, OAI’s Mental Health Program Coordinator. Free.

Living Well Diabetes Self-Management PARK VIEW AT COLUMBIA 7070 Cradlerock Way, Columbia 21045 Wednesdays, February 21 to March 27, 1 to 3:30 p.m.

This six-week workshop is for people living with type 2 diabetes and/or their caregivers. Weekly topics include glucose monitoring, skin care, exercise, nutri on, and healthy ea ng, and maintaining a balanced blood sugar. Register at howardcountymd.gov/livingwell or at any 50+ Center. For more informa on, call 410-313-3507.

African Drumming Circle ELKRIDGE 50+ CENTER February, 23, 1 p.m. / A05605.600 Celebrate Black History Month with a celebra on of drum circles.

Franklyn Bonnie Johnson-Williams will discuss the history of drumming circles, storytelling and lead a drumming demonstra on.

Call 410-313-5192 to reserve your spot or register on Ac veNet.

9830 Patuxent Woods Drive, Columbia, MD 21046 410-313-6410 (VOICE/RELAY) • www.howardcountymd.gov/aging Find us @HoCoCommunity on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, and Nextdoor Kim Higdon Henry, Editor • EMAIL: kahenry@howardcountymd.gov AVAILABLE IN ALTERNATE FORMATS UPON REQUEST

To register or find more events, visit bit.ly/HoCoRegistration

Join the subscriber list https://bit.ly/HoCosubscribe Listen to the HoCo Community Chat podcast on Buzzsprout Advertising in the Beacon is not endorsed by the Office on Aging and Independence or by the publisher.

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F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Money Law &

These books provide sound financial advice. See article on page 18.

Protect your documents from a disaster

By Kate Ashford Floods, wildfires, historic storms — severe weather events are on the rise. If your home was hit by high water or a fire, would your important papers be safe?

“Unfortunately, I’ve had clients who’ve been victims of fires, flooding, hurricanes,” said Sev Tamayo, an agent with Goosehead Insurance in Palm Coast, Florida. “Some of them were prepared, and some of them weren’t.”

Don’t be unprepared. Protect things that are difficult to replicate, which include documents that prove identity, legal process or ownership. If you’d have to call a government agency to process a replacement, you probably want to store it somewhere where it can stay damage-free.

You should also consider what documents you’d need to access if a disaster strikes.

Important items to protect Here are some items to consider, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency: —Birth, adoption, death, marriage and divorce certificates —Passports, green cards and Social Security cards —Property documents pertaining to your home or rental properties, mortgage or lease, and vehicles —Pet ownership paperwork —Paper stock and bond certificates

—Military discharge papers —Health records, health insurance information and disabilities documentation —Estate planning documents (powers of attorney, wills, advance directives and trust agreements) —Property insurance documents, including policy numbers and declarations pages —Tax records —Financial statements (loans, credit cards, banks, retirement accounts and investment accounts), as well as income records (pay stubs and government benefits) —Copies of driver’s licenses and other IDs, health insurance cards and credit cards —Family photos or heirlooms For a complete checklist, visit ready.gov.

Store copies in the cloud “It’s also a good idea to keep scans of your critical documents, as well as backups of all your computer files on a storage device at a separate location or in the cloud,” said Pete Duncanson, senior director of training and development at ServiceMaster Restore, a restoration service company, in an email.

In some cases, a copy of a document will suffice in an emergency. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t keep the original — but if you lose the original, you may be able to get by with your digital copy.

You can take a photo, scan a document, or create a PDF of an online statement, and use

a cloud service like Google Drive or Dropbox for storage. If you use an external drive (such as a thumb drive or other storage device), keep that somewhere safe as well.

Make a video If you need to file an insurance claim, your insurer will need proof of what you owned. Keeping a record of your things is tedious — but it’s easier if you have a smartphone with a camera.

“Start from the front door, turn on the video camera, take a quick two-minute walk around your house,” Tamayo said.

“Save it on the cloud.”

Do this once a year. Let your insurance renewal be your cue, or set a calendar reminder — and refresh it when you’ve made a major purchase or renovation.

“You want to get credit for the newest things that you have,” Tamayo said.

How to store actual documents Store important documents in a container that makes the most sense for your particular risks with an eye toward preparing for the unexpected. Here are some options: Fireproof safe: You can get a fireproof safe box for under $50, but keep in mind that they come in a variety of sizes and temperature ratings. Some are waterproof.

Some are more portable than others. Putting items into a zip-close bag or water-

proof container inside a fireproof safe can provide double protection.

Safe deposit box: A safe deposit box at a bank can weather a lot of events. But don’t put anything there that you might need in a hurry — such as a passport for a last-minute trip — or anything someone would need in the event of your death, such as your estate documents.

“If a family member isn’t on the box, that box has to go through full-blown probate just to get stuff out of the box,” said Patrick Simasko, an estate planning attorney at Simasko Law in Mount Clemens, Michigan.

Plastic bin: At the very least, you can put important documents in a watertight plastic bin on a high shelf. “It’s not going to protect you from fire, but it can protect the paperwork from smoke damage and from a burst pipe or flooding incident,” said Adam Lyszczarz, program manager of the documents division of restoration company Prism Specialties in Michigan.

Fridge or freezer: Putting your documents in a plastic zip-close bag in your refrigerator or freezer can also protect them, although it’s not a long-term solution.

“They are watertight, and the cool temperatures will ensure that things don’t burn, but after a while, they could begin to mold,” Lyszczarz said. © 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Ways to help grandchildren financially

By Kimberly Palmer In his early 20s, Chris Chen’s nephew dreamed of becoming a professional photographer. But to pursue that dream, he needed equipment that cost over $5,000.

His nephew worked hard to save $1,500; then, his maternal grandmother provided an additional $750.

Chen, a certified financial planner in Newton, Massachusetts, covered the rest.

“It helped him understand the value of money,” Chen said of his nephew, who now earns his living as a photographer.

Grandparents — and other family members — often have the best intentions when it comes to helping their grandchildren financially, but experts say they don’t always know how best to do so, and can accidentally hurt their own finances along the way.

Financial advisers recommend following these steps whenever you’re giving grandchildren a financial gift, whether big or small.

Protect your own finances “The first question is, ‘Can you afford to help your grandchildren, and how much?’” said Lorraine Ell, CEO and co-founder at Better Money Decisions, a national wealth management firm.

Checking your own retirement funds and overall financial security can help ensure that you’re in a position to give, she said.

Grandparents, Ell said, are often pulled to “over give” out of love, but doing so in moderation instead can ensure your generosity is affordable.

Katie Lindquist, a CFP in Madison, Wis-

consin, and owner of Lindenwood Financial, cautions against co-signing loans for grandchildren, which can put your own credit on the line.

“There are other ways to help, such as giving part of a down payment, that can help them without actually co-signing on the loan,” she said.

Talk to the parents first Before giving a financial gift to a grandchild, Lindquist recommends discussing the idea with their parents.

“Make sure everyone is clear on the plan.

You can figure out what accounts they already have and what their needs are,” she said.

If you’re giving cash, she adds, you might want to ask the parents to help the child keep it safe, or direct the money to a

specific savings account or purchase.

Still, Lindquist adds, it’s worth recognizing that once you give the gift, “you can’t control what they spend it on.”

Trent Porter, a CFP and CEO at Priority Financial Partners in Durango, Colorado, said in some cases, parents might not want their children receiving money. The fear is that “Grandparents can become a piggy bank,” he said, where they end up enabling overspending.

It’s also essential to treat all grandchildren fairly, he adds, even if unique needs require differing forms of financial help, such as contributing to a wedding for one and a travel abroad opportunity for another.

See HELP GRANDKIDS, page 17

Makes a great gift! | Law & Money

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4

Help grandkids From page 16

Talk to grandchildren, too At the same time, it’s worth setting clear expectations with your grandchildren, Porter said. “Be as specific as you can reasonably be: ‘We will give you X number of dollars for tuition,’ instead of, ‘If you need help, here is a blank check,’” he said.

When you’re giving money, it’s also a good time to talk about financial topics such as budgeting and saving, Porter added. “Communicating about those things gives them a huge advantage because most kids leave high school and have no idea,” he said.

Susan Greenhalgh, a financial coach in the Providence, Rhode Island, area and president of Mind Your Money, which provides financial coaching and workshops, said grandchildren are watching and observing your behavior closely, and modeling healthy financial behavior can be beneficial to them.

“Every conversation you have about money in their presence will become their money mindset, so you want to be careful about how you’re showing up for them,” she said.

Giving to charity can also be part of that conversation, she said. “One grandparent I know wrote a note to his grandchildren ever y year at the holidays saying he would make a donation in their name to a favorite charity. It’s a beautiful thing to pass on,” Greenhalgh said.

Consider 529 or Roth contributions In some cases, contributing money into

a specific account allows grandparents to retain more control over how and when it’s spent.

Chen recommends funding a 529 college savings account because then grandparents know the money is earmarked for education.

It’s also worth noting that you can give up to $18,000 a year per person in cash or other gifts in 2024 without triggering the IRS gift tax.

A Roth IRA is another option for older grandchildren who earn money, Lindquist said. One of her clients, a pair of grandparents, told their grandson that they would match any contributions he made to his Roth IRA account up to $500. (Grandparents can contribute directly as long as the total amount saved doesn’t exceed the child’s taxable income.)

This approach offered the added benefit of teaching their grandson to save a portion of his wages, she said, which is especially useful to start now, with so many

decades ahead of him before retirement.

That kind of life lesson is a financial gift, too.

This column was provided to the Associat-

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F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

The best sources for financial information If you want to succeed in personal financial planning, you need to use the best-informed, up-to-date and unbiased sources. In this column I’ll share my recommendations.

there is a great deal of confusion and misinformation regarding benefits and policies, including from many representatives of the agency itself.

I recommend you obtain Maximizing Social Security Benefits by Marybeth Franklin.

Retirement accounts For information about IRAs Her book (available from her and other retirement savings website, maximizingsocialseaccounts, Ed Slott and his pubcuritybenefits.com) is reliable lications are simply the best. and covers all the important I regularly attend his semiSocial Security issues. nars and keep up to date with You can’t afford to make THE SAVINGS his monthly publications. I GAME mistakes in deciding when to recommend his book The By Elliot Raphaelson apply for Social Security beneNew Retirement Savings Time fits. The wrong decision can Bomb, which is available on his website, cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars. irahelp.com.

Retirement and estate planning Social Security As for Social Security, unfortunately,

When it comes to retirement planning, the most comprehensive book is the Re-

tirement Planning Guidebook: Navigating the Important Decisions for Retirement Success by Wade Pfau.

He is an expert in this field, and the book covers all the major issues associated with retirement planning. Another advantage is that he makes available regular podcasts covering all the subjects he covers in his book.

A book I recommend for both pre-retirement planning and retirement planning is How to Make Your Money Last by Jane Bryant Quinn.

This book covers all the major issues related to financial planning, is easy to read, and refers readers to many other valuable sources of information that I also use.

On the topic of estate planning, Bob Carlson is a retirement expert who has also written an excellent retirement book,

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This book is the most informative one related to reverse mortgages. Pfau points out the advantage of using the “line of credit” option. Don’t consider using a reverse mortgage until you read this book. It is available through Retirement Research Media.

Annuities The source I recommend for annuities is Stan Haithcock, whom I have worked with for more than 10 years. No one I know has more expertise in this field.

He will only recommend annuities that are cost-effective for you. He will make available for you, at no cost, easily readable booklets that summarize the pros and cons of every type of annuity.

His website is stantheannuityman.com.

His email address is stan@stantheannuityman.com. I have recommended his services to readers for many years and have never received a complaint, only compliments. His podcasts are available weekly.

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Another valuable resource is “Medicare and You,” an official government publication that is available at no cost at Medicare.gov and through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Finally, I also recommend regularly reading financial periodicals such as the Wall Street Journal and Barron’s.

You can usually find these publications at your public library, or you can subscribe at reasonable prices when promotions are offered. Make sure you cancel when promotions are ended. Otherwise, you will incur higher costs automatically.

Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at raphelliot@gmail.com. ©2023 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency LLC.

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Style

19

Arts &

Barbra Streisand’s new autobiography is a bestseller. See story below.

Streisand writes about acting, music, life to a lifetime achievement award from the American Film Institute to a Presidential Medal of Freedom. [Ed. Note: Streisand will receive the SAG Life Achievement Award at the 2024 Screen Actors Guild Awards in March.]

Jackie O urged her to write Publishers had sought her life story since at least the 1980s, when then-Doubleday editor Jacqueline Kennedy lobbied in vain to sign up Streisand, who felt she wasn’t ready.

But starting in the late 1990s, Streisand began writing down memories — in longhand, because she couldn’t type. She agreed to a book deal with Viking in 2015, and notes that a manuscript she expected to finish in two years ended up taking a decade, a delay she was relieved to learn is not uncommon in publishing.

“I always wonder about that,” Streisand, 81, said during the interview. “Like, great authors, if it takes them a long time, how do they make a living?

It helps to have outside income.

In her memoir, Streisand shares vivid, detailed memories of her breakthrough Broadway and film roles in “Funny Girl,” of recording such chart-topping albums as “People” and “Guilty” and making such signature Streisand films as “The Way We Were,” “A Star Is Born” and “Yentl,” which marked the beginning of her unique achievements as a woman who produced, directed and starred in her own movies.

She also looks back on her eight-year marriage to Elliott Gould, her affairs with

R yan O’Neal and Don Johnson, among others, and her enduring relationship with James Brolin, whom she mar ried in 1998.

“Nothing’s impossible,” is how she begins the book’s epilogue.

My Name is Barbra reached the top five on the New York Times bestseller list and has received the kinds of reviews her films and albums inspired: “At heart this is a story so bursting with life, fury, unbelievable ambition and food (Streisand loves to eat) that you come away from it exhausted but smiling,” wrote the Guardian’s Emma Brockes.

During her recent interview, Streisand reflected on her tastes in music, the films she made and those she enjoys and her sense of destiny, dating back to childhood.

PHOTO BY NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH

By Hillel Italie Her book is called My Name is Barbra, and it runs nearly 1,000 pages. You expected less from Barbra Streisand?

Streisand spent the past decade working on one of the epic narratives in modern show business — her uncompromising rise from working class Brooklyn in the 1940s and 50s to global fame.

During a recent telephone interview, she reflected on her tastes in music, her tastes in film and her sense of destiny, dating back to childhood.

There are reasons Streisand’s memoir, published last November, took as long to wrap up as even her most challenging film projects. For decades, she rarely had the kind of solitary time needed to settle down and write. And even with her film and concert career essentially over — “I don’t enjoy performing anymore,” she said — the longtime liberal and political activist remains absorbed in the news, no matter how distressing, from next year’s U.S. presidential election to the war in the Middle East.

For Streisand, long one of the most private of superstars, opening up about herself is an ongoing challenge. But, as she explains in her memoir, she felt an “obligation to the people truly interested” in her work.

“I thought writing a book would be easier than making a movie, but boy, was I wrong,” she writes.

Streisand’s records have sold more than 100 million copies worldwide, and her honors range from multiple Emmys and Grammys

Barbra Streisand, pictured here in 2018, published her memoir, My Name is Barbra, last November, after working on the book for 10 years. Streisand, 81, is the only recording artist ever to have made numberone albums over six consecutive decades.

Life path set at early age She recalled seeing “The Diary of Anne Frank” on stage in the 1950s. Even then, she just knew she could do it.

“I said to myself, ‘I’m 14. I’m Jewish, and I can play that part.’ Well, how did I know that?

I don’t know. So there’s a part of me that’s very self-sufficient or believes in myself.”

But there’s another part, too, a negativity, a doubt — “don’t know if it’s just people who are artistic,” she said, but it’s a See STREISAND, page 21

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20

Arts & Style | Subscribe online! See how on p. 22

Singles From page 1 as well as bi-weekly game nights and other gatherings for widowed persons.

Widowed Persons Outreach (WPO), another local group, also offers support groups as well as social meetups and Zoom sessions.

Most people who’ve lost someone find non-judgmental, peer-to-peer support groups important to recovery. Those groups offer not just emotional support but outings like concerts, book discussions, dinners and travel. Many are free.

Connecting with others “who understand what you are going through” helps, said Linda, a local widow who did not want her last name published.

“These people get it. You don’t have to explain,” she said. She also joined the Lousy Bowlers League, where she meets many people, not just widows.

Keller laments that it took her three years to search for help. “Seek help and support immediately,” she urged. “Find like-minded people. I thought I was the only widow in the world.”

Today Keller finds comfort and self-assurance in spending time with other wid-

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F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

ows, or friends she calls “wisters” — a combination of “widows” and “sisters.”

Advises one widow, “Do not stay at home and wallow, even though you are in a horrible fog of loneliness and grief.” She found strength in a grief group, where she listened to others’ journeys.

Grief can come in waves, pop up seemingly out of nowhere, and linger in the background for years, counselors say.

Be gentle with yourself, Gregory said.

“It’s important to allow yourself to grieve.”

Facing finances and “stuff” For many people, dealing with financial matters can be terrifying, especially if the deceased spouse handled the planning and household expenses.

There’s what one widow calls the “barrage of paperwork, like car titles and his name on everything, his will and bills.” In her case, the paperwork kept her busy. “It made me put one foot in front of the other and get things done,” she said.

Some women living alone are vulnerable to scams and price gouging, like inflated plumbing or car repair prices.

Some people stereotypically “see a single woman who [they think] does not know much,” Gregory said, and try to take advantage.

Disposing of clothing and personal items can be heart-wrenching. Many advisors caution against letting others pressure the bereaved into giving things away,

and urge people to take time to sort through it all.

A Virginian in her 70s and married for 40 years was overwhelmed “dealing with his stuff,” including 350 boxes of papers, numerous tools, artworks, a truck and a 1968 sports car. At times, she felt angry at him for leaving her to deal with his belongings.

Fairfax County resident Steve Ditmeyer, whose wife died of ovarian cancer in 2017, enlisted his daughter and sisters to help donate his late wife’s wardrobe.

Ditmeyer, who was married for 38 years, said, “You have to move on. I was fortunate that my then 34-year-old son was living with me then and now. We could grieve together and look after each other.”

Still, Ditmeyer tried to stay busy, attending church dinners, discussion groups and college alumni gatherings.

Starting Chapter Two Loneliness and the fear of being alone are significant hurdles for many widowed people. You can feel invisible because you were formerly half of a couple. Your family and friends are used to “salt and pepper.

Now you are just salt,” Keller said.

Some people who lose their partner want to find another; some do not. Ditmeyer’s wife told him the day before she died, “I regret that I did not line up someone for you to go the rest of the way with.”

See SINGLES, page 21

Makes a great gift! | Arts & Style

H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N — F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4

Singles

Going out again

From page 20 Most counselors advise people to take it slowly.

“Getting into a relationship too quickly could be a mistake,” Gregory warned.

What some widows call “Chapter Two” should be about loving yourself, she noted.

Ken Gordon, president of WPO, lost his wife 14 years ago and stresses that support groups like his provide social connections.

But these organizations are “not a dating service,” he said.

One 65-year-old Gaithersburg widow said she wrestled with “trying to accept the fact there’s nothing I can do to bring him back. I’m alone. That was the toughest.”

The flip side for some is that once you come to terms with solitude, there are some plusses. You don’t have to consult about every meal, outing or what to buy when. And you can control the television remote, one widow joked.

Streisand From page 19 dichotomy…And then there’s the part that knows from your soul, from my DNA, from my father, maybe even my mother, that tells you, ‘You can do it.’ I don’t know how to describe it. It doesn’t come in a bottle.”

Her father died when she was in infancy.

She was known for that, as “the girl with no father,” she recalled, and for having “a good voice.”

More inspired as a teenager by the soundtrack to “Guys and Dolls” than by the latest hit from Elvis Presley or Chuck Berry, she preferred Broadway musicals to rock ‘n’ roll.

“I looked for the lyrics first. If I relate to the lyric, I can sing the song. I took for granted my voice.”

In the show tunes Streisand admired,

J

Gordon says it takes a little bravery to forge out on your own.

“For some, getting out of the house is a difficult process,” he said. “At a certain stage, you have to be proactive. It takes encouragement to get out of the house, to go do something. Don’t be afraid to go [out] to dinner alone.”

After the initial shock of the loss dissipates, holidays and anniversaries can be difficult. The pain isn’t quite as acute as the first year, though, according to most widowed people.

“I keep saying, ‘The really tough stuff is over,’” said an Alexandria widow, who went through an agonizing six months as her husband’s health declined.

Above all, Keller says, be kind to yourself. “It’s okay to cry. Just take [it] one day at a time.”

For more information about Widowed Persons Outreach, visit wpodc.org or call (202) 537-4942. For Widow Care’s support

groups, visit widowcare.org.

Also, try the Wendt Center for Loss and Healing, at wendtcenter.org, or the Tragedy

Jan. 26

JAZZ CONCERT

The Columbia Jazz Band will perform a toe-tapping concert highlighting jazz drummers on Fri., Jan. 26 at Wilde Lake Interfaith Center, 10431 Twin Rivers Rd., Columbia. Tickets are $20. For more information, call (443) 694-4829.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Ongoing Volunteering a few hours a week is good for your health.

AmeriCorps Seniors welcomes people 55 and older. You can choose to help in any way you want: teach a child to read, deliver groceries to an elderly neighbor, or aid a local nonprofit. To get involved, visit americorps.gov/serve/americorps-seniors or call 1-800-942-2677.

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ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD

FROM PAGE 22 ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

Early and late ambitions

12 M

Assistance Program for Survivors, for survivors of military or veteran loved ones, at taps.org/mission.

BEACON BITS

she said, “There is a character playing those parts and singing those songs. So there’s something to act. There’s a beginning, a middle and an end. [With rock songs] you just repeat the phrase.”

Looking back at her career, Streisand recalls a framed photo she had in her old home, before she moved to Malibu, California. It was of an interview she did at age 19.

“They asked me, ‘What do you want to be?’ It was like, ‘Well, I want to do lots of things. I want to act, sing.’ Oh, I even said I would like to direct an opera someday.

Which I always thought I’d like to do. I never got around to that. Although it’s possible that’s something I could do.” © 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

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

A Network of Professionals Dedicated to Serving Older Adults Our members enjoy: • Monthly Networking Meetings • Social Gatherings • Directory & Website Advertising • Professional Development Programming

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To review our complete menu of marketing opportunities, visit cogsmd.org.

Prospective members are welcome to attend one meeting as our guest.

To register, email info@cogsmd.org.

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F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4 — H O WA R D C O U N T Y B E A C O N

Crossword Puzzle Find a new crossword every day on our website at www.TheBeaconNewspapers.com/puzzles.

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Across 1. Makes a sidewalk less dangerous 6. Japanese drama 9. Best actress nominee for Leaving Las Vegas 13. Untouchable Ness 14. Publicize 15. Item in a magician’s pocket 16. King Julien of Madagascar 17. Defenseless 19. Special event in Winter 2024 21. 1980’s “Star Wars” missile sys.

22. ___ Might be Giants 23. Special and photo 26. ___-ticon, such as :-) 28. Spy agency created following WWII 29. Special event in Spring 2024 36. Precisely 37. Limitation of TikTok 38. Pro ___ (proportionally) 39. Special event in Summer 2024 44. Lyric poem 45. Pull the wool over someone’s eyes 46. Take a stab at 47. Chills and fever 49. Code for Nevada’s busiest airport 51. Special event in Fall 2024 59. Highly magnetic mineral 60. Indian language 61. Be in harmony 62. Prefix meaning “within” 63. Spritelike 64. Makes a sidewalk more dangerous 65. “His/Hers” in French (and center of “HORSESHOE”) 66. Actress Emma or Sharon

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HB224

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1. Narcissist’s favorite person 2. Sheltered from the wind 3. An arm or a leg 4. French city, where visitors can take excursions to a chateaux and a cathedral

5. Oktoberfest treat 6. The city so nice, they abbreviated it twice 7. Birthstone of Halloween babes 8. Nonbeliever 9. Listerine rival 10. Boy detective Frank or Joe 11. Product of the liver 12. Bathtub whirlpool 14. 1959 Best Picture Ben-___ 18. Taj ___ 20. Points toward the bullseye 23. Lisa Simpson’s bus driver 24. Amenity at most Holiday Inns 25. Last-minute call from the governor 27. Value of about 11 pennies 28. John Waters movie, ___ B. Demented 30. “At the moment,” in text-speak 31. Some Twenty Questions answers 32. Nest egg fund, briefly 33. Hairstyle’s dividing line 34. Distribute cocoa powder in hot water 35. Lightly cooked, as an egg 40. Applies gravy to the turkey 41. Conceives of 42. River that baby Moses floated on 43. Common cobbler constituents 47. Spanish for “mudbrick” 48. The X-chromosome has more of them than the Y 50. Leg extttennddder 51. Nation of over 300 islands 52. Comedy idol, Idle 53. Like Texas’ star 54. All’s Well That ___ Well 55. Astrological sign of Dodger great Durocher 56. Content of an intelligence briefing 57. Thor’s dad 58. Maximum number of lives for a cat

Answers on page 21.

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Classes/Events Howard Co. Recreation & Parks . . . . . . . . . . .12-13 Howard Co. 50+ Connection . . . . . . . . .14-15

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