March 2017 | Fifty Plus Richmond by The Beacon Newspapers

Published by The Beacon Newspapers, Inc.

Matt Paxton, former host of TV’s “Hoarders” and founder of Legacy Navigator, helps families sort through and clear out a life’s worth of stuff.

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MARCH 2017 • FREE

Social insecurity

a publication of

The Beacon Newspapers, Inc.

Volume 20, No. 3, March 2017 Publisher/Editor: Stuart Rosenthal stuart@fiftyplusrichmond.com Vice President of Operations: Gordon Hasenei gordon@fiftyplusrichmond.com Sales Director: Alan Spiegel alan@fiftyplusrichmond.com Contributing Writers: Lisa Crutchfield Martha Steger Art Director: Jennifer Sutton jennifer@fiftyplusrichmond.com

2 Fifty Plus | March 2017

Editorial Mission: Fifty Plus is dedicated to providing readers with accurate information, professional guidance, and useful resources. Our publication is intended to both reflect and enhance fifty-plus lifestyles, and to encourage reader dialogue and input. Fifty Plus is published monthly and distributed free of charge. The advertising deadline is the 10th of each month for the upcoming issue. The entire contents of Fifty Plus are © 2016, The Beacon Newspapers, Inc. No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means without the express written consent of the publisher. The views and opinions expressed by writers and columnists do not necessarily represent those of Fifty Plus or its staff.

How to reach us Fifty Plus Richmond PO Box 2227 Silver Spring, MD 20915 PH: 804-673-5203 info@fiftyplusrichmond.com

A problem indeed. Now, is this a problem that is difficult to solve? No, not really. Economists and politicians have proposed a number of quite practical steps that could, individually or together, address the shortfall and turn the system back into a pay-asyou-go one without deficits. Here are just a few: How about increasing the payroll tax rate, gradually, by a percent or two? What about raising the cap on salaries subject to Social Security withholding? (It’s presently $127,200.) What about slowly raising the retirement age? Wait: aren’t we doing that now? Yes, but that will stop when the retirement age hits 67 (something that was decided back in 1983). We could continue that gradual rise to reflect our rapidly expanding longevity and increasingly healthy lifestyles. We could also impose a “means test” for recipients (that is, reduce benefits paid to wealthier retirees), or change the formula for the annual cost of living increases, or impose an acrossthe-board decrease in benefits, or... How much good would each of these potential steps do? Glad you asked. Last June, the Penn Wharton Public Policy Initiative, a nonpartisan research group, unveiled an online program that allows users to apply the six types of changes mentioned above, in any of 4,000+ combinations, to see how they would affect the 75-year solvency of Social Security. Not surprisingly, a little bit of a lot of different steps — each of which would gore a different ox — implemented gradually over a period of many years would produce a perfectly reasonable solution. (See bit.ly/SocialSecuritySimulator) It seems to me that, while imposing most of the burden on any one group (current workers, seniors, employers, the affluent, etc.) would justify loud objection, it should be much easier to accept if a small bit of pain were imposed on all potential beneficiaries. The sooner we solve this very solvable problem, the more we and future generations will benefit. I urge you to encourage your congressional representatives to take this issue seriously — and to let them know you won’t vote them out of office if they do so.

Feature Cover Story

Declutter your home and organize your life (before your kids have to) By Lisa Crutchfield When Jill Fisher’s mother died last May, she found herself swamped with papers, knickknacks, furniture and all the possessions her mom had accumulated in her Midlothian home over the years. “I thought, ‘I’m drowning, and we’ll never be able to sell this house,’” she recalled. “You become overwhelmed and you really don’t get the opportunity to mourn your loved one when they pass, because you’ve got to hit the ground running.” After several months of trying unsuccessfully to undertake the cleanout, Fisher called in an expert. Matt Paxton — best known as a host and extreme cleaning specialist on the popular A&E program “Hoarders” for more than a decade — is also one of Richmond’s go-to guys when it comes to cleaning out the kind of homes that the rest of us hate to admit we have in our families. While people like Fisher may be overwhelmed, Paxton isn’t fazed. In his career, he has seen it all. “Somebody might be horrified because mom has 12 cats,” he said. “I had one lady who had 300.” Paxton, an alumnus of Midlothian High School and the University of Mary Washington, left “Hoarders” after last season to spend more time with his wife and kids, and to co-found a new business in Richmond. With several partners, he opened Legacy Navigator — a business that

Hoarder or just lazy?

Like Fisher’s mother, most of us may have too much stuff, but we’re not hoarders. True hoarding, Paxton said, is founded in grief and trauma (usually experienced relatively young in life) and affects all aspects of life. It’s rare, and generally takes years of therapy to overcome. The rest of us who might just be overwhelmed by stuff aren’t in the same league. “Laziness is not hoarding,” he said. Paxton said he owes much of his success to being non-judgmental. You may, in jest, call your spouse or parents hoarders, but Paxton sees someone following the rules. “The last of the Depression kids, those who are 80 and older, they are not hoarders,” he said. “They are good children, doing exactly what their parents taught them to do. That’s a very big distinction.” Those clients are the ones who might keep jars, buttons, pieces of string, used nails they’ve pounded flat, and so on. “They’re doing their best to

Don’t let clutter get the best of you. To keep your family’s home organized, Matt Paxton suggests the following: Cleaning should be a family thing. Whoever lives there should clean for 10 minutes each night. Do that, and the house stays clean. Don’t try to do a whole room

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not only cleans out houses, but also helps families navigate through the often-challenging process of moving on after a death in the family. “There are so many families [where], when someone passes away, you don’t know what to do,” said Paxton. “You realize that they need compassion and understanding, and they need help.”

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P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F M AT T PA X T O N

As the new publisher of Fifty Plus, I think of Social Security as a kind of would like to address a topic that has personal investment account. long been an interest of After paying into Social Semine, and which I think is curity all our working lives, of great importance to our we might well think of those readers: Social Security. monthly checks we receive Let me start by saying in retirement (or hope to) that I am a big fan of Social as benefits that we have Security. I have no interest earned, perhaps increased in “killing” the program. by interest over time. But there are clearly huge Social Security could have financial problems facing been designed as such a it as the baby boom genprogram, with each workFROM THE eration retires. er’s payments earmarked PUBLISHER Though these problems for later disbursement. By Stuart Rosenthal have been evident (and But for very practical growing) for years now, reasons, that’s not how the various White House administrations system works. Since benefits were paid and Congress have refused to take out in the early years of the program to any real steps to deal with them. beneficiaries who had paid hardly any Let me lay out the issues. payroll taxes prior to retiring, it was the Since it began in 1935, Social Secu- taxes paid by those still working that rity has been a tremendously valuable paid for the first retirees’ benefits. program, greatly reducing poverty And that’s the way the system has rates among retirees, those with dis- continued to operate ever since. This abilities, and their dependents. To- works as long as current workers are day, more than 60 million Americans paying in sufficient taxes to cover the (almost 1 in 5) receive benefits from benefits paid out to current retirees. Social Security’s programs. But demographics are working agaIt’s a program that truly affects us inst us. In 1940, there were 159 workers all. Every worker (and employer) in paying taxes towards the cost of each the United States contributes to the beneficiary. In 1960, there were 4.9 program through payroll taxes. This workers for every recipient. Today, there well-known fact leads most of us to are about 2.8 workers per recipient.

And by the time all the baby boomers have retired (and an estimated 91 million Americans will be collecting Social Security), there will be only about 1.9 workers per recipient. That’s clearly going to present a problem. Well, what about that Trust Fund we hear so much about whenever this topic comes up? Aren’t there trillions of dollars owed to Social Security that will cover any arrears? Unfortunately, no. First of all, the Trust Fund isn’t what you and I mean by “trust fund.” The trust fund represents the total of excess payroll taxes collected over disbursements. At present, they amount to about $2.5 trillion. But that excess money wasn’t put in a bank, or invested in stocks. It was borrowed by Congress and spent on the rest of the government’s bills (thus reducing the annual deficit in those years). In return, Social Security was given special interest-bearing Treasury Notes payable by the U.S. at a future date. I’m not suggesting T-bills are insecure investments, and surely this money will indeed be made available to Social Security when needed. But those notes (and the hundreds of millions in interest they have earned over time) will be paid off with money acquired in the same way the government acquires all its money: through higher taxes or further borrowing from domestic and foreign sources. In other words, each year the trust fund is tapped, the federal deficit (which I trust we will still be running) will be enlarged by that amount. Effectively, we have traded lower deficits in earlier years for higher deficits in future years. Whatever you think of that as an “investment,” it’s clear that the trust funds won’t make paying future Social Security beneficiaries any easier than it would have been without them. And it doesn’t address our problem in years to come of needing to pay out billions more than we take in. Did I say billions? Oh, silly me. I meant trillions. The projected shortfall, assuming no changes are made to the program between now and then, will reach $1 trillion in 2045 alone, and nearly $7 trillion in the year 2086. Over the next 75 years (the period the Social Security Trustees are charged with securing the program’s liquidity), it’s estimated that the shortfall will total a staggering $134 trillion.

at once; it’s too overwhelming. To help you start downsizing, he suggests taking a 2-foot-by-2-foot area and working on it for 10 minutes a day. Have perspective. Your house is not supposed to be perfect; it’s not a magazine. You live there, and it’s OK to have a junk room.

Matt Paxton has experience dealing with the most challenging of hoarding situations. Fortunately, most people are not true hoarders. “Laziness is not hoarding,” he said.

preserve the past. They had nothing, and everything was precious.” Others may be staving off fears ingrained in their youth, said Paxton. “A lot of people are still afraid of losing all their money, and [so they] hide it all over the house. “We’ve had to train our guys to clean a house differently for different age groups. For 80-year olds, we find cash and change and stock certificates. For 60-year olds, it’s U.S. Savings Bonds. “I had one lady tell me the bonds had expired and were worthless,” he said. “They weren’t expired; they had matured, and were worth more than they cost.”

A common phenomenon

Having too much stuff isn’t a trait unique to senior citizens. Researchers at UCLA’s Center on Everyday Lives of Families — including archaeologists, anthropologists and social scientists — recently studied the home life of middle-class, dual-income families. They focused on physical surroundings of the families, what anthropologists call “material culture.”

Among their findings:

— Managing the volume of possessions was such a crushing problem in many homes that it actually elevated levels of stress hormones for mothers.

— Only 25 percent of garages could be used to store cars because they were so packed with stuff. — The rise of big-box stores such as Costco and Sam’s Club has increased the tendency to stockpile food and cleaning supplies, making clutter that much harder to contain. Younger people who can’t stop shopping may be looking for the prestige that comes with owning a lot of things. Paxton’s colleague at Legacy Navigator, Pete Shrock, has years of experience as a grief counselor, and likens those who can’t stop accumulating to addicts. “People acquire items and it makes them feel good,” he noted. “But it’s fleeting, like a drug, and the feeling goes away.” The ease of being able to order things online is an easy fix. “Things are so accessible now. It erases the discipline of what’s going out — it’s all about what’s coming in.”

Learning to let go

But sooner or later, it catches up with you. Katie Hamann, owner of Door to Door Solutions in Richmond, a company that specializes in helping older homeowners downsize and move, said See DECLUTTER, page 4

March 2017 | Fifty Plus 3

Social insecurity

a publication of

The Beacon Newspapers, Inc.

2 Fifty Plus | March 2017

How to reach us Fifty Plus Richmond PO Box 2227 Silver Spring, MD 20915 PH: 804-673-5203 info@fiftyplusrichmond.com

Feature Cover Story

Hoarder or just lazy?

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P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F M AT T PA X T O N

Matt Paxton has experience dealing with the most challenging of hoarding situations. Fortunately, most people are not true hoarders. “Laziness is not hoarding,” he said.

A common phenomenon

Among their findings:

— Managing the volume of possessions was such a crushing problem in many homes that it actually elevated levels of stress hormones for mothers.

Learning to let go

March 2017 | Fifty Plus 3

From page 3

she sees a lot of clients who’ve collected way too much during the course of their lives. “The biggest challenge for them is letting go,” she said. “It’s really not about the stuff — it’s about what’s changing in their life. It’s a realization of facing mortality.” Hamann counsels clients to be selective about which treasures to save, perhaps one photo album of favorites rather than dozens of so-so pictures. “You want to represent the best part of your life.” Last month, Edith Waldbauer, 97, moved from a condo to assisted living with a little help from Door to Door Solutions. Before the move, she spent months sifting through paperwork and items. What did she wish she’d known ahead of time? “I wish I’d kept a notebook and written down which items

people told me they’d like to have,” Waldbauer said. Also, “You need to take breaks. Stop and read a chapter of a book, have a dish of ice cream, or do something to take your mind off the turmoil of disposing of the things that mean something to you.”

The time to start is now

Hamann’s best advice: start planning early. “Start with tackling a few categories,” she said, “things like paperwork, clothing and Christmas decorations.” Fisher wishes her mom had done that. “What I’ve learned from this — and my in-laws have been following this closely — is that to be prepared, you should start with paperwork. Everything needs to be in its own little cubby — not spread out.” Another must, said Hamann, is to talk to children and relatives about who gets what — and to start handing down possessions sooner rather than later. An added bonus is that you’ll get

The National Association of Senior Move Managers offers information and tips on downsizing. Visit http://bit.ly/tipsfrommovemanagers

Getting your affairs in order On your way to getting organized? The National Institute on Aging offers these tips to get your affairs in order: Put your important papers and copies of legal documents in one place. You can set up a file, put everything in a desk or dresser drawer, or list the information and location of papers in a notebook. If your papers are in a bank safe deposit box, keep copies in a file at home. Check each year to see if there’s anything new to add. Tell a trusted family member or friend where you put all your important papers. You don’t need to tell this friend or family member about your personal affairs, but someone should know where you keep your papers in case of an emergency. If you don’t have a relative or friend you trust, ask a lawyer to help. Give permission in advance for your doctor or lawyer to talk

4 Fifty Plus | March 2017

with your caregiver as needed. There may be questions about your care, a bill, or a health insurance claim. Without your consent, your caregiver may not be able to get needed information. You can give your okay in advance to Medicare, a credit card company, your bank, or your doctor. You may need to sign and return a form. Here are some examples: Medicare Authorization to Disclose Personal Health Information Form: www.medicare.gov/MedicareOnlineForms/PublicForms/CMS10106.pdf Information on Power of Attorney: www.vda.virginia.gov/pdfdocs/ powerofattorney.doc HIPAA forms to release medical information are available from your physician. Get more information and tips at http://bit.ly/getaffairsinorder.

to see items enjoyed. Fisher said having an outside company come in and do the hard work was a lifesaver. “I feel like a new person,” she said. “The world has been taken off my shoulders. “I recommend getting help; it’s not worth the frustration and stress of trying to get through [cleaning out the house] while you’re grieving.” For her, Legacy Navigator arranged to sell some items at auction, sorted, donated, shredded, recycled and threw out most of the clutter. “They can make decisions because they’re not emotionally invested,” said Fisher. There’s another upside. “We realize that a lot of our clients are asset rich, but cash poor,” Paxton said. “They may now have this huge house, but can’t afford to clean it out, can’t find the paperwork they need to move forward.” Many times, he said, his crews identify enough items to sell that it balances out the cost of having them come in. One occasional challenge is that

Health

P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F K AT I E H A M A N N

Declutter

Fitness &

Katie Hamann, owner of Door to Door Solutions, specializes in helping older homeowners downsize and move.

some clients don’t want the neighbors to know that they’ve outsourced cleaning. So the Legacy Navigator crew comes in unmarked vans, and can even work during overnight hours. “No one wants to deal with this,” acknowledged Paxton. “It would be great if people thought about it ahead of time, but they don’t.”

What Exactly Is an “Important Paper”? The answer to this question may be different for every family, says the National Institute on Aging. Include complete information about: Personal Records • Full legal name • Social Security number • Legal residence • Date and place of birth • Names and addresses of spouse and children • Location of birth and death certificates and certificates of marriage, divorce, citizenship and adoption • Employers and dates of employment • Education and military records • Names and phone numbers of religious contacts • Memberships in groups and awards received • Names and phone numbers of close friends, relatives, doctors, lawyers and financial advisors • Medications taken regularly (be sure to update this as needed) • Location of living will and other legal documents Financial Records • Sources of income and assets

(pension from your employer, IRAs, 401(k)s, interest, etc.) • Social Security and Medicare/ Medicaid information • Insurance information (life, health, long-term care, home, car) with policy numbers and agents’ names and phone numbers • Names of your banks and account numbers (checking, savings, credit union) • Investment income (stocks, bonds, property) and stockbrokers’ names and phone numbers • Copy of most recent income tax return • Location of most up-to-date will with an original signature • Liabilities, including property tax — what is owed, to whom, and when payments are due • Mortgages and debts — how and when they are paid • Location of original deed of trust for home • Car title and registration • Credit and debit card names and numbers • Location of safe deposit box and key

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OUT WITH GOUT

Gout, a form of arthritis, can be painful, but treatment can help

WATCHFUL WAITING

Monitoring early prostate cancer can be as good as survey or radiation

SHOP SMARTER

Those ubiquitous barcodes on packaging can help you be a better shopper

Tips from the pros on how to lose weight By Marilynn Marchione A food behavior researcher has tested a bunch of little ways to tip the scale toward success. His advice: Put it on autopilot. Make small changes in the kitchen, at the grocery store, and in restaurants to help you make good choices without thinking. “As much as we all want to believe that we’re master and commander of all our food decisions, that’s just not true for most of us,” said the researcher, Brian Wansink. “We’re influenced by the things around us — the size of the plate, the things people are doing...the lighting.” He heads the Cornell University Food and Brand Lab, has written books on taking control of food choices, and has had government and industry funding. Some tips are gimmicks, and some may not work as well for you as they did

in tests. But they “make a lot of sense,” and many are backed by other studies, said one independent expert, Dr. William Yancy, a weight specialist at Duke University’s diet and fitness center. To start: Make goals that are SMART — Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-bound, Yancy said. Instead of resolving to eat better, plan how to do it — such as having chips once or twice a week instead of every day. Rather than vague vows to get in shape, resolve to walk half an hour every day after dinner. Other tips from Wansink (and research to support them):

In the kitchen

Redo the pantry to put healthy stuff in front. You’re three times more likely to eat the first food you see than the fifth one.

Tidy your kitchen before eating. Women asked to wait in a messy kitchen ate twice as many cookies as women in the same kitchen did when it was organized and quiet. Redo the fridge. Even though it shortens shelf life, move fruits and vegetables out of crisper drawers and put them at eye level. Keep healthy foods in clear bags or containers, and less healthy things (like leftover pizza) in aluminum foil. In one study, people who put fruits and vegetables on the top shelf ate nearly three times more of them than they did the week before. Keep no food out except a fruit bowl. Researchers photographed 210 kitchens to see whether countertop food reflects the weight of women in each home. Those who left breakfast cereal out weighed 20 pounds more than neighbors who didn’t. Those with soft drinks out

weighed 24 to 26 pounds more. Those with a fruit bowl weighed 13 pounds less.

At the table

Beware the glassware. Use narrower glasses, pour wine when the glass is on the table rather than in your hand, and use a glass that doesn’t match the color of the wine. A study found that people poured 12 percent more wine when using a wide glass, 12 percent more when holding the glass, and 9 percent more when pouring white wine into a clear glass versus a colored or opaque one. Pour any glass only half full — this cuts the average pour by 18 percent. Use smaller plates and pay attention to color. Big plates make portions look small. In one study, people given larger See LOSE WEIGHT, page 7

What to do when a cough just won’t quit By Dr. Monique Tello Who has never had a cough? I bet no one can raise their hand. We see this in clinic all the time. But chronic cough — one that lasts at least eight weeks — can be hard for patients to deal with and difficult for doctors to figure out. In a recent issue of the New England Journal of Medicine, lung experts describe a step-by-step approach doctors can use to help treat patients with chronic cough. Most often a prolonged cough is due to one of the “usual suspects.” But when it’s not, we have a long list of increasingly rarer conditions that we should run through and rule out. If it isn’t due to any of those, experts now recognize that the culprit may be overactive

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nerves that cause an exaggerated cough response to certain triggers.

The usual suspects

The authors describe a typical patient with chronic cough, and she is very similar to many of my patients. She’s a middle-aged lady with a cough lasting many months. Of course, first we want to ask a whole lot of questions. • Has she had chronic allergy symptoms such as itchy, watery eyes and nose, stuffy nose and postnasal drip? If so, it’s worth trying antihistamines and nasal steroids. Undertreated allergies can lead to chronic sinus infection, which causes cough by postnasal drip, so we may want to treat for this as well. • Could she have “cough variant” asthma that causes a cough but no wheez-

ing? Many of my patients would rather not wait for an appointment with a lung specialist and undergo fancy tests. So, if we suspect cough-variant asthma, we simply begin inhalers. A few weeks of inhaled albuterol to help open the airways, and a steroid inhaler to quell inflammation, may both make the diagnosis and treat the problem. • Is she suffering from heartburn symptoms? Acid reflux can also trigger cough. So if someone describes heartburn symptoms, or even if we are not sure what is causing the cough, we often prescribe eight weeks of an acid-lowering medication. • Is she taking a medication for which coughing is a side effect? Lisinopril or another blood pressure medication from the class called ACE

inhibitors can cause cough in 20 percent of patients. A trial period off this medication may be warranted. • Is she among the 17 percent of Americans who smoke cigarettes? If so, her cough may be due to chronic bronchitis, where cumulative lung damage prevents the body’s normal ability to clear particles, the airways swell and make excessive mucus, and eventually areas die off and leave “dead space.” In a smoker, other symptoms with the cough may raise concern about a lung infection or even cancer. • Does she have other health risks or conditions? If she has been incarcerated or in a shelter, or perhaps is from a resource-poor country, we conSee COUGH, page 7

March 2017 | Fifty Plus 5

From page 3

The time to start is now

The National Association of Senior Move Managers offers information and tips on downsizing. Visit http://bit.ly/tipsfrommovemanagers

4 Fifty Plus | March 2017

Health

P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F K AT I E H A M A N N

Declutter

Fitness &

Katie Hamann, owner of Door to Door Solutions, specializes in helping older homeowners downsize and move.

www.fiftyplusrichmond.com

OUT WITH GOUT

Gout, a form of arthritis, can be painful, but treatment can help

WATCHFUL WAITING

Monitoring early prostate cancer can be as good as survey or radiation

SHOP SMARTER

Those ubiquitous barcodes on packaging can help you be a better shopper

In the kitchen

Redo the pantry to put healthy stuff in front. You’re three times more likely to eat the first food you see than the fifth one.

weighed 24 to 26 pounds more. Those with a fruit bowl weighed 13 pounds less.

At the table

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nerves that cause an exaggerated cough response to certain triggers.

The usual suspects

March 2017 | Fifty Plus 5

Advising one’s 12-year-old granddaughter and her eyes wide open! Dear Solutions: My granddaughter, who’s 12 Dear Solutions: I am in a constant debate with a years old, was visiting me with a friend of mine over abolcouple of her friends. ishing the death penThey were having just alty. He’s passionately a fun discussion about against it, though I’m how to act when they go not convinced even after out with boys. all his arguments. One of the girls said The trouble is that by she went to a movie with the end of our “discusa boy and he kissed her. sions,” we both end up He then told her she a little angry and turned didn’t know how to kiss off. I want us to remain because she didn’t open SOLUTIONS friends, so have you got her mouth or close her By Helen Oxenberg, any advice about how to eyes. MSW, ACSW end this? — Ed She actually asked me what she should have said when Dear Ed: First, you might tell him that you this boy criticized her. I don’t think I gave her a very good answer be- would agree with him if the first step cause I was a little shocked by the to abolishing the death penalty would be taken by the murderers. (No murwhole conversation. What should she say in a situa- derers = no death penalty.) There are so many different praction like this? — Miriam tical, moral, philosophical, religious Dear Miriam: She should say nothing, because if and other dimensions that lead people she’s going out with a boy at 12 years to be for or against this issue. Since your main goal is to remain old, she’d better keep her mouth shut

friends, tell him that the only thing you really want to kill is the arguing, not the friendship. Try to agree to let that rest in peace. Dear Solutions: I’m not sure whether to have a temper tantrum or not. I sent several proposals and samples for a really interesting workshop/group experience to a new community that I heard was looking for ideas. I have not heard one word from the so-called activity director, although I sent it twice. This person didn’t answer or even acknowledge receiving my inquiries. It feels like I don’t exist. What is the best way to handle this? Should I express my anger at her/his inconsideration, or just forget it? — Frustrated Dear Frustrated: I understand your frustration. Fortunately, you have a choice. You can assume that this person is not going to hire you. Then you can have that temper tantrum, and rant and rave about his/her inconsideration and nastiness,

and be relieved that you don’t have to work with such an unappealing person. Or you can just shrug and hold on to the good feeling of being superior to this silent person, realizing that the good shrug will feel better than would a reply of rejection. Enjoy the shrug and look elsewhere. Dear Solutions: I just wrote a play, which I’m feeling good about, and I’m about to send it to a producer. Some people are telling me I should send it to a drama critic first. That makes me nervous. Do you think they’re right? — D. Dear D: They may be right, but you’re also right to be nervous because the critic may read it and tell you something you don’t want to hear. If you think you can stand that, then go ahead. If not, be brave and just send it to the producer. Good luck. © Helen Oxenberg, 2017. Questions to be considered for this column may be sent to the author at helox72@comcast.net. For reprint rights, call (609) 655-3684.

Lose Weight From page 5

bowls took 16 percent more cereal than those given smaller bowls, yet thought they ate less. People also take more food if it matches the color of their plate. But they eat less when the tablecloth or placemat matches the plate; it makes the food stand out more. Keep the TV off and eat at a table. A study of dinner habits of 190 parents and 148 children found that the higher the parents’ body mass index (a ratio of height and weight), the more likely they were to eat with the TV on. Eating at a table was linked to lower BMI. Try small portions of “bad” foods. Eat a bite or two, then distract yourself for 15 minutes to see if you feel satisfied.

Cough From page 5

sider tuberculosis (TB). If she has a weakened immune system as well, due to HIV or long-term use of corticosteroids, TB and a host of other unusual organisms are on the list. • Are we stumped? Rare conditions

A study gave people different portions of chocolate, apple pie and potato chips, and had them rate hunger and craving before and 15 minutes after eating. Bigger portion folks ate 103 calories more, but didn’t feel more satisfied than those given less.

At the grocery store

Divide your shopping cart in half. Use a partition, purse or coat for a visual cue to fill at least half your cart with fruits, vegetables and other healthy foods. In two studies, half of shoppers were given divided carts and told to put healthier items in front. They spent more on produce than those given regular shopping carts. Be careful when buying in bulk. A study found that people who bought big containers of chips, juice boxes, cookies, to consider include pulmonary fibrosis, sarcoidosis, autoimmune diseases and anatomical abnormalities. Additional workup should include pulmonary and ENT evaluations.

Newly recognized causes

But what do we do for patients who either do not respond to treatments for

crackers and granola bars ate half of it within the first week — twice as fast as they normally would. Tip: Repackage into single-serve bags or containers, or store it out of reach, such as the basement. Eat an apple first. People given a sample of an apple at the store increased spending on fruits and vegetables versus those given a cookie or no sample. A healthy snack may prime people to buy better foods, rather than the fast, processed foods they gravitate to when shopping hungry. Circle every island in the produce section. In a study of 1,200 shoppers, every minute spent in the produce section meant $1.80 more in fruit and vegetable sales.

At a restaurant

checked sales receipts of patrons at four casual chain restaurants. Those in brighter rooms were more likely to order healthier fish, vegetables or white meat rather than fried food or dessert. Diners in dim rooms ordered 39 percent more calories. Sit near a window. Researchers analyzed 330 diners’ receipts after they left. The closer they were to a window, the fewer foods and alcoholic drinks they ordered. Ask for a to-go box in advance. Half of diners in a study were told before they ordered that the portions were big and that they could have a doggie bag. Those told in advance wound up taking more food home. To-go boxes encourage people to eat about a third less. — AP

Let the light shine. Researchers

their common conditions, or for whom extensive evaluation rules out the less common causes of a chronic cough? Researchers are now describing a new family of breathing and cough conditions caused by nerve dysfunction. New evidence suggests that postnasal drip, acid reflux, or even forceful coughing in and of itself can aggravate

nerve endings in the “cough centers” of the airways. These aggravated nerve endings then overreact to many other triggers — such as smoke, perfume or temperature changes — causing an overwhelming urge to cough. They label this condition “neuronal See COUGH, page 8

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Lose Weight From page 5

Cough From page 5

At the grocery store

Newly recognized causes

But what do we do for patients who either do not respond to treatments for

At a restaurant

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What is gout, and how can you keep it at bay?

Drugs for depression, anxiety and reflux

Q. I recently experienced severe you do experience symptoms, it can pain in my right toe for the second become a chronic problem. Gout’s presentation can time. My doctor said differ with age. People who this could be a gout athave gout and are youngtack. er than 65 tend to be male, What is gout, and is and inflammation usually there anything I can appears in the big toe. do to prevent more atIn older adults, both tacks? men and women may exA: Gout is one of the perience inflammation in most painful forms of armultiple joints, including thritis. It occurs when the big toe, ankles, heels, crystals build up in a DR. RX knees, wrists, fingers and person’s joints, leading to By Jenna Short elbows. Older adults with pain, redness and swelling. gout also are more likely These crystals are formed by uric acid, which is found to have deposits of uric acid — known naturally in our bodies. Uric acid lev- as “tophus” or “tophi” — that look like els in the blood can be elevated for a lumps under the skin. variety of reasons. Normal serum uric acid levels depend on whether you Four stages of gout are male or female, but generally they The four stages of gout are asymprange between 2.5 and 7 mg/dL (mil- tomatic, acute, interval and chronic. ligrams per deciliter). During the first, or asymptomatic, Our goal with gout is to keep the stage, uric acid levels are high, but uric acid level below 6 mg/dL. Most there are no symptoms. Americans with high uric acid levels As uric acid continues to build, you will show no symptoms of gout. But if might experience your first acute

By Dr. Howard LeWine Q: I understand that an antidepressant can treat both depression and anxiety. I have tried three different antidepressants to treat my depression, and they all cause me to experience anxiety as a side effect. Since these drugs are also used to treat anxiety, can you explain how this is possible? A: Many years ago, clinicians and researchers first noticed that antidepressants relieve anxiety. However, antidepressants don’t work to treat anxiety in everyone. In fact, as your experience demonstrates, anxiety can sometimes be made worse by these medicines. It seems strange, but it’s a common phenomenon in psychiatric drug treatment. For example, antidepressants can cause depression to get worse. Stimulants, which tend to speed people up, help some people feel calmer. Medication effects vary because no two people are alike. We don’t yet completely understand how the brain regulates mood. We do

gout attack. Attacks can be triggered by many different things, from certain foods to alcohol consumption. During the acute stage, you will experience pain and inflammation in your joints. The joint pain and inflammation are likely to go away within a week to 10 days without treatment. The period between attacks — when you do not feel any symptoms — is called interval gout. Most patients will experience a second gout attack within three years of the first attack. Finally, you could experience chronic gout, where attacks become more frequent and might not completely go away.

Drugs can help

Treatment depends upon which stage you are in. For an acute gout attack, your doctor may prescribe colchicine, steroids, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen), depending on your age and kidney function. These drugs help stop the pain and inflammation associated with the uric acid crystal build-up. If you have frequent acute attacks — typically four or more in a year — your doctor will most likely prescribe allopurinol or febuxostat. These drugs prevent uric acid from being manu-

Cough From page 7

hyper-responsiveness syndrome,” and outline several approaches to treatment. But wait, there’s more. Other researchers describe a similar concept at the level of the larynx — a family of disorders under “laryngeal dysfunction syndrome” that can include “laryngeal hyper-responsiveness.” Many of the treatments they describe are similar to the treatments for “neuronal hyper-responsiveness,” and the most promising include the anticonvulsants

factured in the body, leading to lower amounts of uric acid in the blood.

Food (and drink) to avoid

At one time, gout was known as the “disease of kings” because only the rich could afford the foods that led to uric acid build-up. Patients with gout should avoid foods that are high in purine, a chemical compound that is broken down in the body into uric acid. Foods high in purines include meats such as bacon, beef, pork and lamb. Other foods to avoid because they contain purines are anchovies, sardines, herring, mackerel, scallops and gravy. Beer is also a common culprit. Even a single night of drinking can cause uric acid to spike, triggering an attack. Certain drugs can lead to the development of gout, so ask your doctor if you are on any medications that can put you at greater risk. It is believed that losing weight can help you prevent or lessen gout, as it increases elimination of uric acid. Jenna Short is a PGY-2 geriatric pharmacy resident at VCU School of Pharmacy. She also is an alumna of the school, and completed a PGY-1 pharmacy practice residency at Riverside Health System. gabapentin and pregabalin, the antidepressant amitriptyline, speech therapy, or a combination of these. Basically, medical experts are describing a new cause of chronic cough based on aggravated nerves and airway dysfunction. More research will result in better treatments. Monique Tello, M.D., M.P.H., is a contributing editor to Harvard Health Publications. © 2017. President and Fellows of Harvard College. All Rights Reserved. Distributed By Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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I would like to get off it. But when I stop the omeprazole, the heartburn comes right back. What can I do? A: Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). Drugs in this class are the most potent stomach acid inhibitors. While proton pump inhibitors are very safe for short-term use, there are several concerns about taking them for a long time. One problem is just what you experience. Rebound heartburn. Rebound heartburn happens because the acid suppression leads to an increase in the number and activity of acid producing cells in the stomach. Without the blocker, acid levels shoot up quickly. Other potential side effects of longterm PPI use include low blood magnesium levels, loss of bone mass that may lead to osteoporosis and fractures, increased infection risk, and decreased absorption of vitamin B12 leading to anemia. Stomach acid greatly helps with vitamin B12 absorption. To help you get off the omeprazole, make sure you are regularly following the non-drug recommendations to reduce acid reflux.

• Lose weight if you are overweight. • Eat smaller but more frequent meals. • Avoid eating within two or three hours before bedtime. • Raise the head of your bed if you’re bothered by nighttime heartburn. • If certain foods trigger your heartburn, try cutting them out for a while to see if it makes a difference. Next, continue to take your daily morning omeprazole. Add another medication called an over-the-counter H2 blocker, such as cimetidine, ranitidine, famotidine or nizatidine. Take this one at night before bed. Then start to skip doses of omeprazole while continuing the nightly H2 blocker. If all is well, see if you can stop the omeprazole. Don’t rush it. Do this over a few weeks or longer. Howard LeWine, M.D. is an internist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston and assistant professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School. (c) 2017 President and Fellows of Harvard College. All Rights Reserved. Distributed By Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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know that antidepressants do not simply correct a so-called “chemical imbalance.” While antidepressants do alter the concentration of chemical messengers between nerve cells, we’re still not very good at predicting how that change will affect a person’s mood. There are some practical points worth considering if an antidepressant makes you anxious. In the first few days or weeks of treatment with any antidepressant, it can have a stimulating effect. That can make you feel anxious. But often the anxiety wears off if you press on for several days or weeks. Sometimes the anxiety is triggered because you started a dose that was too high. You may avoid anxiety by starting a very low dose and increasing it slowly. If the drugs made you anxious on low doses, ask your doctor about other options. You may have more success with psychotherapy, or an antidepressant from a different class. Q: I regularly take over-the-counter omeprazole for acid reflux and have been doing this for many years. Some days I need to double the dose.

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What is gout, and how can you keep it at bay?

Drugs for depression, anxiety and reflux

Drugs can help

Cough From page 7

factured in the body, leading to lower amounts of uric acid in the blood.

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Prostate cancer may not need treatment By Maria Cheng Men with early prostate cancer who choose to closely monitor their disease are just as likely to survive at least 10 years as those who have surgery or radiation, according to a major study that directly tested and compared these options. Survival from prostate cancer was so high — 99 percent, regardless of which approach men had — that the results call into question not only what treatment is best, but also whether any treatment at all is needed for early-stage cases. And that in turn adds to concern about screening with PSA blood tests, because screening is worthwhile only if finding cancer earlier saves lives. “There’s been no hard evidence that treating early [prostate] disease makes a difference,” said Dr. Freddie Hamdy of the University of Oxford, the study’s leader. “Because we cannot determine very well which [case] is aggressive cancer and which is not, men and clinicians can both be anxious about whether the disease will progress,” he said. “And that pushes them toward treatment. “

Waiting can be difficult

Dr. Otis Brawley, chief medical officer for the American Cancer Society, welcomed the results, but said it would be a struggle to convince men diagnosed with early prostate cancer in the U.S. to skip surgery or radiation. He said he often suggests monitoring, but “it’s a challenging process to explain to people that certain cancers just don’t need to be treated.” “Our aggressive approach to screening and treating has resulted in more than 1 million American men getting needless treatment, “ said Brawley, who had no role in the study. The research was published last fall in the New England Journal of Medicine. It was paid for by Britain’s National Institute for Health Research. The study involved more than 82,000 men in the United Kingdom, aged 50 to 69, who had tests for PSA, or prostate specific antigen. High levels can signal prostate cancer, but also

10 Fifty Plus | March 2017

may signal more harmless conditions, including natural enlargement that occurs with age. Researchers focused on the men diagnosed with early prostate cancer, where the disease is small and confined to the prostate. Of those men, 1,643 agreed to be randomly assigned to get surgery, radiation or active monitoring. Monitoring involves blood tests every three to six months, counseling, and consideration of treatment only if signs suggest a worsening disease. A decade later, researchers found no difference among the groups in rates of death from prostate cancer or other causes. More men being monitored saw their cancers worsen — 112 versus 46 given surgery and 46 given radiation. But radiation and surgery brought more side effects, especially urinary, bowel or sexual problems.

Do we overscreen?

PSA testing remains popular in the U.S. even after a government task force recommended against it, saying it does more harm than good by leading to false alarms and overtreatment of many cancers that would never threaten a man’s life. In Europe, prostate cancer screening is far less common. Other experts said scientists should focus on how to figure out which cancers are so slow growing they don’t need treatment and those that do. “We need something to allow us to identify men with aggressive disease earlier,” said Dr. Malcolm Mason, a prostate cancer expert at the charity Cancer Research U.K. He said the study confirmed that for men in the early stages of the disease, there is no wrong treatment decision. Some participants who had surgery or radiation said they didn’t regret it despite learning now that they probably could have done just as well without it. Tony Hancock, 60, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer eight years ago in Newcastle, said he originally wanted to have his disease monitored, but the study assigned him to have surgery. See PROSTATE CANCER, page 13

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Screening can head off colon cancer By Lisa Crutchfield March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and it’s a good time to schedule your colonoscopy, if you’ve been putting it off. Colon cancer can begin as noncancerous polyps, which often cause no symptoms. They can, however, be detected early and removed through colonoscopy, and that’s why doctors recommend regular screening for those at high risk or over the age of 50. Colorectal cancer is the fourth-most common cancer diagnosed in the United States. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2017, the United States will see 95,520 new cases of colon cancer and 39,910 new cases of rectal cancer. Colorectal cancer is the third-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women in the United States, and the second-leading cause in men. Many people with colon cancer are

free of symptoms until it’s too late to treat, depending on the size and location of the cancer. That’s why having a colonoscopy to catch polyps in their early stages is so important. Once cancer has progressed, some commonly experienced symptoms include changes in bowel habits, changes in stool consistency, blood in the stool and abdominal discomfort. Common treatments include surgery to remove the cancer, chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

New medication studied

In Virginia, colorectal cancer mortality decreased 26 percent between 2003 and 2012. But researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University’s Massey Cancer Center still see more colorectal cancer than they’d like. They’re currently searching for more effective treatment options for patients.

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One study now underway is evaluating an experimental medication called regorafenib. It is given to patients with high-risk colon cancer following the completion of standard chemotherapy. This is a national phase 3 clinical study that is randomized and double-blind, meaning neither the patients nor the researchers know which person is getting the experimental drug and which ones are getting a placebo (an inactive pill). The primary goal of this study is to determine the value of regorafenib in improving disease-free survival. The secondary aims are to evaluate the dose tolerance and long-term toxicity of two years of regorafenib following standard therapy, and to evalu-

ate the effect of the use of regorafenib in overall survival. “The study is evaluating if the addition of a medicine that is effective for metastatic colorectal cancer can work to prevent its recurrence,” said Dr. Khalid Matin, a medical oncologist at VCU’s Massey Cancer Center, who is the leading the trial as the local principal investigator. “This is an important study in a high-risk population, because if it has positive results, more patients will be cancer-free and cured than before.” Patients with Stage 3 colon cancer are now being recruited. For more information, or to volunteer, call Carrie Donovan at (804) 628-3836 and refer to study NSABP C-13.

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Waiting can be difficult

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Do we overscreen?

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New medication studied

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Six ways barcodes help you shop smarter By Paul Michael The humble barcode has been a regular part of grocery store shopping since 1974, with the first-ever product being scanned on June 26th of that year. Since then, they have become almost invisible, with some package designs finding ingenious ways to hide or dress up their somewhat garish appearance. However, with smartphones and apps now becoming a part of our everyday lives, the importance of barcodes is changing. Now, instead of being something the store uses to track inventory, the code can be a great way to find out much more about the product itself. From secrets about the product’s manufacturer, to allergy information and user reviews, here are six amazing things that barcodes can tell you. 1. What people actually think of the product Before you make a big purchase, perhaps of a vacation, car or TV, you research the reviews and see what people really think of the options. When it comes to grocery items,

however, most people don’t have the time or energy to sit in front of a computer trawling the web for the latest consumer opinions on detergents or frozen foods. But now, if you have any doubts at all, you can scan the barcode of the product and find out what people really think of it. For example, apps like OpenLabel and Purchx let you scan the label and read through reviews of many products you’ll find in the typical grocery store aisles. A particularly interesting feature of OpenLabel is the ability to create an “honest” label for other people to read, highlighting things that you think other consumers should know. Purchx has been called the “Yelp for products,” with a database of over 3 million products reviewed by consumers just like you. With a barcode and a scanning app, you can literally tap into a vast collective user base of no-holdsbarred opinions. 2. Instant price comparisons across multiple stores

One of the many issues facing customers these days is buyer’s remorse, particularly upon finding out that another store has the exact same product for much less than you just paid. You can always try going back to the store for a price match, or returning the item and buying the lower-priced product later. But that’s all a lot of hassle. Instead, using the power of your smartphone and the net, you can scan barcodes and instantly see what the price is for this item at hundreds of different stores. Apps like ShopSavvy and BuyVia give you access to a huge database of products, and after scanning the barcode in-store, you can see exactly what the product is going for, including shipping fees where applicable. You can also use this information to get an instant price-match in the store (Toys R Us is very good for this), and can set price alerts if you want to know when the item goes on sale, or dips below a price you specify. 3. Real (and harmful) ingredients in a product

Want to know what’s really hiding behind those complicated chemical names printed on the ingredient label? Well, there are myriad apps available to help you decode them, letting you know in plain English just what is hiding behind the label. GoodGuide, Chemical Cuisine, Think-Dirty, HealthyLiving and Food Facts give you the ingredients in ways that are easy to understand. Chemical Cuisine has a ratings system, ranging from “safe” to “avoid,” and it can be eye-opening. For example, adipic acid is on the safe list, whereas benzoic acid should be avoided by certain people. Beverages, condiments, frozen meals and soups are covered. Some of these apps will also suggest healthier, or better, alternatives to the product you’re scanning. 4. Potential allergy issues Nuts. Dairy. Gluten. Egg. If you or someone in your family has an allergy to a certain type of food, it can make See SHOP SMARTER, page 13

Shop smarter

you should avoid it. Of course, nothing is foolproof, as From page 12 SnackSafely.com reported back in grocery shopping as arduous as find- 2014. By now, the apps will have coling a needle in a haystack. Every label lected far more information and should has to be read, just in case (although have a much more thorough database more and more manufacturers are of foods and allergens, but as always, now plainly displaying potential aller- you use these apps at your own risk. 5. Sustainability and environgy issues on the label). If you want to make this process a mental impact These days, many of us try and do whole lot quicker and easier, use an app that scans for allergy issues. Apps our bit for the environment. We want like Ipiit and Content Checked are to choose products that are environcustomizable based on your specific mentally friendly, and made from sustainable resources. But without comallergy requirements. For instance, you may be fine with mitting to hours and hours of research, gluten, but need to steer clear of nuts it’s not easy to be an Earth-conscious and dairy. Select those issues, scan consumer. Technology once again comes to the barcode, and the app will let you know if a product is good to go, or if the rescue, with apps like GoodGuide

Prostate cancer

From page 10

“Within about 24 hours, I persuaded myself that it was the best option,” he said. “I started to think, ‘how could you live like that, knowing there’s a cancer growing inside you and you’re not doing anything about it?’”‘ Although he suffered side effects,

and Social Impact. GoodGuide can uncover a wealth of information with just a quick scan of the product’s barcode, delivering comprehensive information on just how green the product it is, and how healthy and safe it is, too. Products are ranked on a scale of 0 to 10, and also use a handy color-coded system to show you what you’re buying. Green is go, red is stop, and yellow is “well, let your conscience be your guide... but don’t say we didn’t warn you.” 6. If the product is made under ethical conditions It’s awful to even think about, but child labor, forced employment and slavery exist even today. You just have to look at a pair of shoes with an $8.99 price tag to know that someone, somewhere, is suffering to achieve that in-

sanely low price. But it’s not always easy to tell, especially if the price of the product seems to justify decent working conditions, and the brand name feels trustworthy. Well, now you don’t have to guess. There are several apps and browser plugins that will let you drill down into the manufacturing details of the product in question, giving you ratings for the ethical conditions under which the product was made. Free2Work and Ethical Barcode can show you if the product is tested on animals, or if it was flagged for being made using child labor. All contents © 2016 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

including some incontinence and pain, “My initial reaction was to get rid of it.” Hancock was glad he had the surgery. But after reading up on the risks “Psychologically, I know the cancer and benefits of surgery and radiahas been removed because my pros- tion, Collett said he was relieved to tate is gone.” Douglas Collett, a retired construction worker from Cromhall, said he was horrified when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. “It hit me like a sledgehammer,” the 73-year-old said.

have been assigned to the monitoring group, and feels more men should be fully informed about the various strategies. — AP

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March 2017 | Fifty Plus 13

Shop smarter

Prostate cancer

From page 10

have been assigned to the monitoring group, and feels more men should be fully informed about the various strategies. — AP

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March 2017 | Fifty Plus 13

Around Around Town Town

Ongoing VENDOR ASHLAND FAIRE

March 2017 Calendar

SIGNUP ney to the underworld, where she reunites Recreation and the Chesterfield Historical 20621 Woodpecker Rd. The second on on

It is time to sign-up as a vendor for the 35th Ashland Strawberry Faire, which takes place on Saturday, June 3. Vendors selling arts, crafts, plants, antiques and food may apply, as well as local businesses from Ashland and Hanover. The Faire is a free community- and family-oriented event held on the streets of Randolph-Macon College in historic Ashland. Its proceeds provide scholarships and grants to local non-profit groups. For more information, visit https://ashlandstrawberryfaire.com.

with her father and struggles to remember her lost love. The show will open at the James L. Ruffa Performing Arts Center, with performances on March 10, 11, 17, 18 at 7 p.m., as well as March 12 and 19 at 2 p.m. The center is located at 512 W. Washington St. in Petersburg, Va. Tickets cost $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors 60+ at the door. Group rates are also available. For more information, contact the box office at ( 804) 722-0200, ext. 206 or by email at tickets@args.us.

March 11 BARN DANCE The Beacon Theatre presents Ronnie

March 7 HOW TO GROW McDowell and The Old Dominion Barn Dance on Saturday, March 11 at 2 p.m. MUSHROOMS The Chesterfield Extension office presents a a talk on growing mushrooms on Tuesday, March 7 at 6 p.m. Mushrooms are chameleons of the food world and are fat-free, low in calories, and filled with vitamins, antioxidants and other nutrients. This talk will take place at North Courthouse Library, located at 325 Courthouse Rd. in Chesterfield, Va. Space is limited. For more information, call (804) 7514401 or email vce@chesterfield.gov to register.

March 9 WYNONNA JUDD LIVE Country music singer Wynonna Judd will play music from her eighth studio album “Wynonna & the Big Noise” on Thursday, March 9 at the The Beacon Theatre. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $37 to $55 in advance and $42 to $60 at the door. The theater is located at 401 N. Main St. Hopewell, Va. For more information or to buy tickets, call the box office at (804) 446-3457 or visit www.wynonna.com.

March 10+ EURYDICE PERFORMANCES In the play Eurydice, Sarah Ruhl reimagines the classic myth of Orpheus through the eyes of its heroine. Dying too young on her wedding day, Eurydice must jour-

14 Fifty Plus | March 2017

(doors at 1:15) and 7:30 p.m. (doors at 6:45). The theatre is located at 401 N. Main St. in Hopewell, Va. Tickets cost $30 to $45 in advance and $35 to $50 at the door. For more information call the box office at (804) 446-3457 or visit http:// olddominionbarndance.webs.com.

March 11 TINTYPE PHOTOGRAPHY The Chesterfield Historical Society of Virginia (CHSV) and the Chesterfield County Dept. of Parks and Recreation present “Tintype Photography: The Wet Plate Collodion Process” on Saturday, March 11 from noon to 1 p.m. at the Historic Magnolia Grange Museum House, 10020 Iron Bridge Rd., Chesterfield, Va. Photographer Harry Taylor will present contemporary methods and his work, which explores the American South. He will also take tintype photographs by appointment only the day of the lecture. Half plate costs $50, and an 8x10 costs $225. Reservations are required for a photography session. For more information or to reserve a session, call LeeAnne Ball at (804) 748-1498 or visit www.chesterfieldhistory.com.

March 11 CIVIL WAR DRIVING TOUR The Chesterfield Department of Parks and

Society of Virginia present a driving tour of Civil War battle sites that played a major role in the 1864 Bermuda Hundred Campaign on Saturday, March 11 from 2 to 5 p.m. The tour will begin at Henricus Historical Park, 251 Henricus Park Rd. Chester, Va., and will stop at Battery Dantzler, Parker’s Battery, Ware Bottom Battlefield and more. The cost is $15, and registration is via PayPal at www.chesterfieldhistory.com. Space is limited. Registration and payment must be made in advance prior to the tour. Transportation is provided, and participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring snacks and water. For more information, call (804) 751-4946.

March 11 PARANORMAL INVESTIGATION Spirited History is a group of paranormal investigators whose mission is to bring attention to historic sites with a spirited past from around the United States. In partnership with CHSV, Spirited History will offer an “Investigation of the Imprisoned Baptist Preachers and Courthouse Green” on Saturday, March 11 from 8 to 10 p.m. at the Historic 1892 Jail, 6819 Mimms Loop. The cost is $15 per person for ages 8 to adult only; children must be accompanied by an adult. Attendees can take photos, record for EVPs and investigate along side seasonal paranormal investigators. For for more information, contact Bryan Truzzie at (804) 751-4946 or truzzieb@chesterfield.gov. Register at www.chesterfieldhistory.com via PayPal. Reservations and payment must be made in advance.

the same date, will take place from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Bensley Community Center, 2900 Drewrys Bluff Rd. All residents are encouraged to attend. Feedback received will help the county prepare its Annual Action Plan for fiscal year 2018. For more information, contact Kathleen Thompson at (804) 318-8867.

March 14 & 15 WRITERS MEETING Agile Writers is holding a free open meeting on Tuesday, March 14 and Wednesday, March 15 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Agile Writers helps beginning writers create a first-draft novel in 6 months. This meeting will discuss the progress, writing techniques, and the various methods of getting published. The meeting will take place at the Agile Writers, located in Suite 204 at 221 Ruthers Rd. in N. Chesterfield. For more information, visit http://AgileWriters.us.

March 16 HEALTHY LEGS DAY There will be a Healthy Leg Day at Bremo Pharmacy on Thursday, March 16 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. This event features free lower leg ultrasounds provided by Vein Solutions, compression fittings by a company rep from Sigvaris, foot scans for Lynco Orthotics, balance screenings by The Gait Center, door prizes and light refreshments. The pharmacy is located at 2024 Staples Mill Rd. For more information, or to register for the lower leg ultrasound screening, call (804) 288-8361, ext. 132. Walkins are welcome. For more information, visi www.bremorx.com.

March 13 CHESTERFIELD March 17 WRITERS MOVIE PUBLIC MEETINGS NIGHT Chesterfield County will host two public meetings to gain citizens’ opinions regarding community development needs and to receive feedback on an update to the Annual Action Plan. The first, on Monday, March 13 from noon 1 p.m. will take place at Ettrick Community Center,

The Agile Writers are holding a movie night on Friday, March 17 from 7 to 9 p.m. at their office in Suite 204 at 221 Ruthers Rd., Chesterfield, Va. This session will be the beginning of a weekly Friday-night movie review. The group will discuss the film and its aspects. For more

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Fifty Plus Calendar information, visit http://AgileWriters.us.

March 18 WRITERS MEETING Agile Writers is holding a free open meeting on Saturday, March 18 from 10 a.m. to noon. The meeting will take place at the Agile Writers, located in Suite 204 at 221 Ruthers Rd. in N. Chesterfield. The group helps aspiring writers complete their novel, memoir or screenplay in less than six months. For more information, visit http://AgileWriters.us.

March 18 TRAILBLAZER RUN AND WALK The GCATrailBlazer 5k Run/Walk will take place on Saturday, March 18 from 8:30 to 11 a.m. The day begins at Guardian Christian Academy, 6851 Courthouse Rd., Chesterfield, with a free kids 1-mile fun run (for those 10 and under; registration required) at 8:30 a.m., followed by the $20 5k at 9 a.m. After March 1, prices increase to $25. There will be a finisher medal for all participants and door prizes following the awards ceremony. For more information or if you’d like to help sponsor this race, visit www.GCATrailBlazer5k. com, call (804) 301-6686 or email nancyandkenk@comcast.net.

March 18-19 MILITARY THROUGH THE AGES Visit the Jamestown Settlement on Saturday and Sunday, March 18 and 19. Re-enactors and modern-day units will show how uniforms, weapons and military tactics evolved through the centuries. The weekend features artillery firings, a Saturday children’s parade and a Sunday military pass-in-review. This year’s event highlights the centennial of America’s entry into World War I. Admission costs $17 for adults and $8 for ages 6-12. Children under 6 are free. Jamestown Settlement is located on Route 31 South in Williamsburg. For information, call (888) 5934682 toll-free or (757) 253-4838, or visit www.historyisfun.org.

March 21 POLICE BENEFIT The Henrico County Policy Force presents a benefit celebrating the force, with notable guests the Henrico Vice unit and Senator Mark Obenshain and Delegate Tim Hugo on Tuesday, March 21 at 6:30 p.m. The mission is to raise funds to increase the education of youth about the dangers

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of trafficking and equip them to be leaders in the eradication of such crimes. This benefit will take place at Stony Point Presbyterian Church, 2330 Buford Rd., North Chesterfield, Va. Dress is cocktail attire. For more information, visit freedom2017. rvaji.com.

March 22 CELLO & PIANO CONCERT University of Richmond President Ronald A. Crutcher presents a free recital at the Modlin Center on Wednesday, March 22 at 7:30 p.m. in the Camp Concert Hall in Booker Hall of Music, located at 38 Westhampton Way, Richmond. He will perform Schumann’s Fantasiestücke Op. 73, the Debussy Sonata, the Brahms Sonata in E minor, and Alvin Singleton’s Argoru II for solo cello. For more information, call (804) 289-8980.

March 23+ AMERICAN REVOLUTION MUSEUM The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown will celebrate its grand opening from Thursday, March 23 through Tuesday, April 4. The celebration features an introductory film, timeline, immersive exhibition galleries and living-history experiences that show the epic scale of the Revolution and the richness and complexity of the country’s Revolutionary heritage. Over the course of the 13-day celebration, each day will highlight one of America’s 13 original states as they ratified the Constitution, with a dedication ceremony on April 1. Admission costs $12 for adults and $7 for ages 6 to 12. Children under 6 are free. Museum hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The Museum at Yorktown is located on Route 1020 in Yorktown. For information, visit www.historyisfun.org or call (888) 593-4682 toll-free or (757) 253-4838.

March 23 FULL CIRCLE LUNCHEON Full Circle’s annual luncheon is themed after the poem titled “Live Your Dash” on Thursday, March 23 from 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the John Marshall Ballrooms at 101 N. 5th St., Richmond, Va. The keynote speaker is former Lost Boy of the Sudan and genocide survivor John Dau. The emcee a NBC12 Meteorologist Andrew Freiden. For more information, visit www. fullcirclegc.org/live-your-dash-luncheon

March 2017

or contact Allison Schooley at (804) 9122947, ext. 108 or allisonschooley@fullcirclegc.org.

advance and $25 to $30 at the door. For more information, call (804) 446-3457 or visit http://theblacklillies.com.

March 24 AARON SHUST LIVE

March 26 MAYMONT FARM REOPENS

Contemporary Christian artist Aaron Shust will perform at the The Beacon Theatre, located at 401 N. Main St. Hopewell, Va. on Friday, March 24. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $15 to $20 in advance or $20 to 25 at the door. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (804) 446-3457 or visit http://aaronshust.com.

March 25 COMMEMORATE POCAHONTAS To commemorate the 400th anniversary of the death of Pocahontas, Henricus Historical Park will give talks and presentations on her life as a Virginian Native American and an English woman on Saturday, March 25 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors will spend time in Mt. Malady, the recreated first English hospital, as interpreters portray a physician, surgeon, and apothecary to find out what killed Pocahontas by exploring English medical treatments of the time. There will also be lectures by site historian, John Pagano, in the recreated 17th century church and meeting hall. The cost is $8 for adults, $6 for children age three to 21. Henricus patron are free. The park is located at 251 Henricus Park Rd. in Chester. For more information, call (804) 748-1611 or visit www.henricus. org.

March 25 “ANTIQUES EVALUATION” FUNDRAISER The Chesterfield Historical Society of Virginia will host their annual Antiques Evaluation on Saturday, March 25 from 9:30 a.m. to1:30 p.m. at SwimRVA, 5050 Ridgedale Pkwy in Chesterfield. Oral evaluations will be provided on a variety of items. Evaluations can be made from detailed photos of an item. The fee for evaluations is $10 for one item or $25 for three. For more information, visit www.chesterfieldhistory.com.

March 25 THE BLACK LILLIES The Black Lillies will perform at the The Beacon Theatre, 401 N. Main St. in Hopewell on Saturday, March 25. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $20 to $25 in

The Farm at Maymont and Capital One Bank present a grand re-opening of the farm on Sunday, March 26 from 12 to 4 p.m. The day includes family-friendly activities. The farm entrance and barn have been closed since mid-April 2016 for reconstruction, improvements and expansion. Maymont is located at 1700 Hampton St. For more information, visit www. maymont.org.

March 27 CLASSES

OLDER

ADULT

The Open University of The Shepherd’s Center of Richmond begins its spring session of classes on Monday, March 27, with courses and lunch speakers scheduled on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at three sites around the Richmond area. Older citizens (age 50+) have the opportunity to take affordable eight-week classes in literature, history and current events, C.S. Lewis, opera, photography, travel, genealogy, gentle yoga, Feldenkrais, and five foreign languages. There will also be 20 weekly lunchtime speakers. The classes take place at 3111 Northside Ave., #400, Richmond. For more information, call (804) 355-7282 or visit TSCOR.org.

March 30 COREY SMITH LIVE Corey Smith perform at the The Beacon Theatre, 401 N. Main St. in Hopewell. on Thursday, March 30. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $20 to $35 in advance and $25 to $40 at the door. For more information, call (804) 446-3457 or visit http:// coreysmith.com.

March 31 EAGLES TRIBUTE BAND Hotel California will perform “A Salute To The Eagles” on Friday, March 31 at the Beacon Theatre. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $20 to $35 in advance and $25 to $40 at the door. For more information, call (804) 446-3457 or visit www.hotelcal. com.

March 2017 | Fifty Plus 15

Around Around Town Town

Ongoing VENDOR ASHLAND FAIRE

March 2017 Calendar

SIGNUP ney to the underworld, where she reunites Recreation and the Chesterfield Historical 20621 Woodpecker Rd. The second on on

March 11 BARN DANCE The Beacon Theatre presents Ronnie

March 10+ EURYDICE PERFORMANCES In the play Eurydice, Sarah Ruhl reimagines the classic myth of Orpheus through the eyes of its heroine. Dying too young on her wedding day, Eurydice must jour-

14 Fifty Plus | March 2017

March 11 CIVIL WAR DRIVING TOUR The Chesterfield Department of Parks and

www.fiftyplusrichmond.com

Fifty Plus Calendar information, visit http://AgileWriters.us.

www.fiftyplusrichmond.com

March 2017

or contact Allison Schooley at (804) 9122947, ext. 108 or allisonschooley@fullcirclegc.org.

advance and $25 to $30 at the door. For more information, call (804) 446-3457 or visit http://theblacklillies.com.

March 24 AARON SHUST LIVE

March 26 MAYMONT FARM REOPENS

March 27 CLASSES

OLDER

ADULT

March 2017 | Fifty Plus 15

Law &

Good news for those looking to buy a new or used car. See story on page 19.

How to invest wisely in today’s market

By Elliot Raphaelson Many readers have written asking for advice about how to invest for consistent income in 2017 with minimal risk. As I have emphasized many times, it’s impossible to reap high returns on your investments — whether it’s in the form of income or equity appreciation — without assuming some risk. That being said, it is possible to anticipate likely occurrences in 2017 and make investments taking these into account.

Rising interest rates

What is likely? It is likely that the

Federal Reserve will increase shortterm interest rates a few times in 2017. Most experts following the Fed agree. If that is the case, then bond markets will be volatile, and some longterm investments — such as longterm Treasury bonds — will likely decrease in value, even if only in the short term. Accordingly, I would caution investors not to have significant holdings in long-term bonds, especially if those holdings represent money you will need in 2017. What investments would benefit from this scenario? Treasury inflation-protected securities (TIPS), or

mutual funds or ETFs investing in them, should do well. You won’t receive a great deal of income or capital gains in these investments, but you won’t be taking a great deal of risk, either. Other investments that should do reasonably well in this scenario are investments in high-quality bank loan portfolios whose income is based on variable interest rates. If the Fed does increase rates, then the return on those loans will increase accordingly. Will stock investments do better than bonds in 2017? No one can be sure. There are reasons to believe that corporate profitability will increase

because it is likely that Congress will enact legislation that will reduce the corporate tax rate. The incoming administration campaigned on that basis, and most members of the incoming Congress seem to agree. However, common stock prices are at a pretty high level, in terms of price-earnings ratios, so there is no guarantee that stock prices will continue to increase in 2017. As I have said many times, there are time frames in which bonds outperform stocks and vice versa, and no See INVEST TODAY, page 18

The art of shining in an interview for a job

Question: I’ve had two interviews, organization’s history, size, structure, neither of which resulted in a job and the products/services they offer. You should also be converoffer. Is there anything I sant about their competicould do to increase my tors. chances of success? Research the people Answer: Receiving an inwho will be interviewing vitation to a job interview is you. Ask the HR Departa victory in itself. It means ment for a bio of the peryou have already shown son or people you’ll be the employer you have the meeting. right background. Communicate with Now it’s time for the knowing people on Linkenext step — shining in the CAREER dIn; follow people and interview. COACH trends on Twitter; find In the job search pro- By Judy Smith critical information on the cess, consider yourself in Internet. a sales mode. The interYour interviewer already view is your sales call. The knows you have the basic knowledge, product you’re selling is YOU. Making a good impression in an in- skills and abilities (KSAs) to do the job. Otherwise, you would not have terview requires preparation. been selected for an interview. Now the organization wants to know Prepare for the interview Begin by researching the organiza- how you would apply those KSA’s tion you’ll be interviewing with. You in their organization. That is to say, should be well-informed about the “How would you perform on the job?”

16 Fifty Plus | March 2017

• Select examples of your strengths. Before the interview, choose three experiences that demonstrate your past successes. Decide how you will relate them to the current job opportunity. (When interviewing for different jobs, make sure your comments fit each individual opportunity.) • Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse. Have a script. Write notes beforehand to give yourself a better idea of what you want to say to make the point that you’re ‘the ONE!’ Rehearse in front of a mirror. Your facial expressions and body language count much more than you may think in shaping others’ impressions of you. Rehearsal is critical. You can never over-prepare. • Bring at least three questions to ask. Show your desire to understand the organization with questions about things like its customers, products, services, and the challenges it might have. Listen carefully to the answers for clues to what’s important to the

organization. Then comment on how your background and skills can enhance those key areas.

Handle your stage presence

• Speak concisely Stay focused on what’s most important. Aim for no more than a two-minute answer to general questions like “Tell me about yourself.” The old adage applies here — less is more. Listen attentively and speak clearly and loudly enough. • Show enthusiasm Employer surveys show that nothing sells a candidate better than enthusiasm. Reflect energy and interest. Smile! By approaching an interview with careful preparation, you will be able to communicate your strength, confidence and zeal. You may indeed prompt the interviewer to declare, “You’re hired!” Judy Smith is a registered career coach. Send your job search questions to Smith at smithjudit@gmail.com or visit her website at www.judysmith.solutions.

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on your tax return and reduce your Dear Savvy Senior: Are caregiving expenses tax de- taxable income by $4,050. Also note that your ductible? I provide a lot mom doesn’t have to live of financial support to with you to qualify as a my elderly mother, and dependent, as long as her would like to find out if I income was under $4,050, can write any of it off on and you provided more my taxes. than half her financial supSupporting Son port. Dear Supporting: If your mother does There are actually sevlive with you, you can eral tax deductions and credits available to adult SAVVY SENIOR include a percentage of your mortgage, utilities children who help look By Jim Miller and other expenses in calafter their aging parents culating how much you or other relatives. Here are your options, along with the IRS contribute to her support. IRS Pubrequirements to help you determine if lication 501 (see www.irs.gov/pub/ irs-pdf/p501.pdf) has a worksheet you’re eligible to receive them. that can help you with this. Dependency deduction You can download all IRS publicaIf you’re paying for more than 50 percent of your mom’s living costs tions and forms for free online. To (housing, food, utilities, medical and receive printed IRS publications or dental care, transportation and other forms via mail, call 1-800-829-3676. necessities), and her 2016 gross income (not counting her Social Secu- Shared support rity benefits) was under $4,050, you If you share the financial responcan claim your mom as a dependent sibility for your mom with other sib-

lings, you may be eligible for the IRS multiple-support declaration. Here’s how this works. If one sibling is providing more than half the parent’s financial support, only that sibling can claim the parent. But if each sibling provides less than 50 percent support — but their combined assistance exceeds half the parent’s support —any sibling who provides more than 10 percent can claim the parent as a dependent. So can they both claim the credit? No, only one sibling can claim the tax break in any given year. But siblings can rotate the tax break, with one claiming the parent one year, and another the next. The sibling who claims the parent as a dependent will need to fill out IRS Form 2120 (www.irs.gov/ pub/irs-pdf/f2120.pdf) and file it with his or her tax return.

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Dependent care credit

If you’re paying for in-home care or adult day care for your mom so that you are free to work, you may also be able to claim the Dependent Care Tax Credit, regardless of whether or not Medical deductions your mom qualifies as a dependent on If you can’t claim your mom as a de- your tax return. pendent, you may still get a tax break This credit can cut up to $1,050 off for helping pay her medical costs. The IRS lets taxpayers deduct money spent See TAX HELP, page 18

TECHNOLOGY SIMPLIFIED – BIGGER AND BETTER

There is finally a computer that’s designed for simplicity and ease of use. It’s the WOW Computer, and it was designed with you in mind. This computer is easy-to-use, worry-free and literally puts the world at your fingertips. From the moment you open the box, you’ll realize how different the WOW Computer is. The components are all connected; all you do is plug it into an outlet and your high-speed Internet connection. Then you’ll see the screen. This is a completely new touch screen system, without the cluttered look of the normal computer screen. The “buttons” on the screen are easy to see and easy to understand. All you do is touch one of them, from the Web,

on a parent’s healthcare and qualified long-term care services, even if the parent doesn’t qualify as a dependent. To claim this deduction, you still must provide more than half your mom’s support, but your mom doesn’t have to be under the $4,050 income test. And the deduction is limited to medical, dental and long-term care expenses that exceed 10 percent (or 7.5 percent if you’re 65 by Dec. 31, 2016) of your adjusted gross income. You can include your own medical expenses in calculating the total. See IRS publication 502 (www.irs.gov/pub/ irs-pdf/p502.pdf) for details.

Email, Calendar to Games– you name it… and a new screen opens up. It’s so easy to use you won’t have to ask your children or grandchildren for help. Until now, the very people who could benefit most from E-mail and the Internet are the ones that have had the hardest time accessing it. Now, thanks to the WOW Computer, countless older Americans are discovering the wonderful world of the Internet every day. Isn’t it time you took part? Call now, and you’ll find out why tens of thousands of satisfied seniors are now enjoying their WOW Computers, emailing their grandchildren, and experiencing everything the Internet has to offer.Call today!

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March 2017 | Fifty Plus 17

Law &

Good news for those looking to buy a new or used car. See story on page 19.

How to invest wisely in today’s market

Rising interest rates

What is likely? It is likely that the

The art of shining in an interview for a job

16 Fifty Plus | March 2017

organization. Then comment on how your background and skills can enhance those key areas.

Handle your stage presence

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March 2017 | Fifty Plus 17

New amplified phone lets you hear AND see the conversation.

The Hamilton® CapTel® Captioned Telephone converts phone conversations to easy-to-read captions for individuals with hearing loss. Do you get discouraged when you hear your telephone ring? Do you avoid using your phone because hearing difficulties make it hard to understand the person on the other end of the line? For many Americans the telephone conversation – once an important part of everyday life – has become a thing of the past. Because they can’t understand what is said to them on the phone, they’re often cut off from friends, family, doctors and caregivers. Now, thanks to innovative technology there is finally a better way. A simple idea… made possible with sophisticated technology. If you have trouble understanding a call, captioned telephone can change your life. During a phone call the words spoken to you appear on the phone’s screen – similar to closed captioning on TV. So when you make or receive a call, the words spoken to you are not only amplified by the phone, but scroll across the phone so you can listen while reading everything that’s said to you. Each call is routed through a call center, where computer technology – aided by a live representative – generates voice-to-text translations. The captioning is real-time, accurate and readable. Your conversation is private and the captioning service doesn’t cost you a penny. Internet Protocol Captioned Telephone Service (IP CTS) SEE what you’ve been missing!

Invest today expert is right all the time. That is why for the last 20 years in my own retirement I have maintained a balanced portfolio of stocks and bonds. I don’t pretend to know in which year one or the other category of investment will do better.

of its low costs and broad base of investments. Other fund families such as Fidelity and T. Rowe Price have similar offerings. I also like investing in funds that have a long history of increasing dividends and low costs. For this reason, for many years I have invested in the Vanguard Dividend Appreciation Index Fund (VDADX).

What stock sectors are best?

Bond funds to consider

From page 16

As for equities, which sectors are better to invest in? Many of the experts believe that when interest rates are expected to increase, the banking sector does well. However, bank stocks have already increased in value recently, so there is no guarantee that they will outperform other sectors in 2017. I try not to concentrate my investments in one or two sectors, because it is difficult to predict which patterns will persist and for how long. That is why I think it is prudent to invest in low-cost, well-diversified index mutual funds or ETFs. For example, I like the Vanguard Total Stock Market Index Fund (VTSAX) because

is regulated and funded by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and is designed exclusively for individuals with hearing loss. To learn more, visit www.fcc. gov. The Hamilton CapTel phone requires telephone service and high-speed Internet access. WiFi Capable. Callers do not need special equipment or a captioned telephone in order to speak with you.

As for bond investments, I generally prefer investments in intermediate-term funds, especially when it’s likely that interest rates will increase. Two of my favorite funds for longterm investors are the Vanguard Intermediate-Term Investment Grade Fund (VFIDX) and the Vanguard High Yield Corporate Fund (VMEAX). There is more risk in high-yield funds, but I have found that on a longterm basis, it is worth the higher risk. Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at raphelliot@ gmail.com. © 2017 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Tax help

and deductions for caregivers on state income taxes. Check with your state From page 17 tax agency to see what’s available. For your tax bill for the year. In order to links to state tax agencies, see www. claim it, you must fill out IRS Form taxadmin.org/state-tax-agencies. Send your questions to: Savvy Se2441 (irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f2441.pdf) nior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK when you file your federal return. 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC ToCheck Your state In addition to the federal tax breaks, day show and author of “The Savvy more than 20 states offer tax credits Senior” book.

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The Captioning Telephone is intended for use by people with hearing loss. In purchasing a Captioning Telephone, you acknowledge that it will be used by someone who cannot hear well over a traditional phone. Hamilton is a registered trademark of Nedelco, Inc. d/b/a Hamilton Telecommunications. CapTel is a registered trademark of Ultratec, Inc.

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Car buyers will find good deals this year By Dee-Ann Durbin U.S. car shoppers will find plentiful deals, relatively low interest rates, and lots of high-tech choices in the market this year. “It’s a good time to buy a car now, and it should be for the rest of the year,” said Jessica Caldwell, an analyst with the car-shopping site Edmunds.com New-vehicle sales hit a record of 17.55 million in the U.S. last year. While they’re not expected to top that this year, demand is still strong. Many of the factors that fueled sales last year are still in place, like solid consumer confidence and low gas prices. New technology like Apple CarPlay and automatic emergency braking is luring buyers. And many people still need to replace aging cars. The average age of a vehicle on U.S. roads climbed to 11.6 years in 2016. Here are some things to watch in the car market this year:

Prices

The average price people pay for a

new car rose to $32,000 in December, a monthly record, according to the consulting firm LMC Automotive. Analysts say new-vehicle prices will continue to rise in 2017. There are two main reasons: More customers are buying SUVs, which are pricier than cars. And they’re loading them up with features. As a result, more buyers are leasing, which helps lower the monthly payment. The average monthly lease payment for a new car is currently $405, while the average monthly loan payment is $495, according to Experian Automotive. Buyers are also lengthening the terms of their car loans to lower their payments. The average new-vehicle loan term is now 68 months, up from 62 months in 2009. About 1 percent of loans stretch out 85 months or more.

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end of 2016, and that could inch up even further this year, said Jesse Toprak, CEO of the car-shopping site CarHub.com. Deals are often coming in the form of bonus cash, or low- or zero-interest financing. Look for some of the highest incentives on slow-selling small and midsize cars, like the Toyota Camry and Chevrolet Sonic, as well as hybrids like the Ford C-Max. Incentives will likely pick up in March and April, when more buyers tend to head to dealerships.

Used cars

A big supply of vehicles leased two or three years ago is returning to the market. Prices for used SUVs and trucks, which are in high demand, will likely stay stable this year, but used car prices will fall, said Michelle Krebs, a senior analyst with AutoTrader.com. New cars might have the latest technology, but a certified-pre-owned car might offer perks like free maintenance or a few months of OnStar or satellite radio. The current average monthly payment on a used car is

Up or Down

$362, Experian said, up only slightly from a year ago. One downside for consumers: Falling used-car values mean they’ll get less for vehicles that they’re trading in, said Patrick Min, a senior industry analyst at the car-buying site TrueCar.com.

Low gas prices, interest rates

Low gas prices have fueled the U.S. SUV boom, and that’s likely to continue. Gas prices — which ended 2016 at $2.25 per gallon — are expected to average $2.38 per gallon this year and $2.41 in 2018, according to the U.S. Energy Department. The Federal Reserve boosted its benchmark rate by a quarter-point last month, to a still-low range of 0.5 percent to 0.75 percent. The rate has been near zero since the recession. Toprak said the impact on car buyers will likely be negligible. Even an increase of 2 percentage points would only add about $50 per month to a car payment, he said. “That’s not going to stop people,” he said. — AP

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March 2017 | Fifty Plus 19

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What stock sectors are best?

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From page 16

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18 Fifty Plus | March 2017

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Prices

The average price people pay for a

Incentives

Prices may be at record levels, but — luckily for consumers — deals are, too. Automakers were offering around $4,000 per vehicle in incentives at the

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Used cars

Up or Down

Low gas prices, interest rates

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March 2017 | Fifty Plus 19

Leisure &

From page 20

ence and fortunes. Perched at a strategic point along the route followed by that country’s treasure fleet carrying gold, silver and other valuables from the New World to Europe, it served as a vital frontier fortress. The 17th century Castillo de San Marcos fort, built by the Spanish to protect the Florida coast.

By Victor Block In 1607, a small band of settlers founded the first permanent English outpost in the Americas — Jamestown, in the Colony of Virginia. But by that time, another town already had existed since 1565, further south on what would later be called the East Coast. Each November, we recall the Thanksgiving celebration that took place in 1621, when pilgrims in Plymouth, Mass., shared a feast with friendly Native Americans in appreciation for a bountiful harvest. What’s less well known is that 55 years earlier, Spanish explorers much further south had participated in a similar occasion with members of another Indian tribe. Last year, St. Augustine, Fla., where that often-overlooked event took place, celebrated its 450th anniversary. That supports its claim to be the oldest continuously-occupied Europe-

an settlement in America.

A place of many firsts

Given that history, it’s no surprise that the city is replete with attractions touted as the “first” and “oldest” in the nation. Together, they offer visitors a setting that captures not just the stories but also an authentic atmosphere of the past. Sure, sprinkled among the history-rich centuries-old buildings, monuments and museums is a smattering of tourist trappings. But they’re overwhelmed by the authentic remnants of the settlement’s colorful past, which are scattered throughout the 144 square-block historic district. The Colonial Quarter is a good place to begin exploring. That bustling twoacre complex recreates the changing chapters of St. Augustine’s colorful

PHOTO BY SEAN PAVONE

St. Augustine, Fla., America’s oldest city

PHOTO COURTESY OF FLORIDASHISTORICCOAST.COM

The Oldest Wooden School House, which dates back to 1716, is open to the public. It features an animatronic schoolmaster and pupils, dressed in period clothing, who describe what classes were like 300 years ago.

20 Fifty Plus | March 2017

The 90-year-old Bridge of Lions in St. Augustine crosses the intercoastal waterway. It’s far younger than the city itself, which celebrated its 450th anniversary last year. St. Augustine remained under Spanish rule from 1565 to 1821, which accounts for its ornate Mediterranean architecture.

past as it evolved from a 16th century Spanish colony, to 17th century fortified town, to 18th century garrison. The neighborhood is a living history museum. A blacksmith, carpenter and other costumed historic interpreters combine facts with fun as they help onlookers relive the way things were over the centuries.

colonized islands — a journey that gave birth to the legend of the Fountain of Youth. At the time, a fable about vitality-restoring waters was familiar on both sides of the Atlantic, but there is no historical evidence that de Leon was seeking to find that allegedly magical potion. Somehow, accounts of his supposed search found their way into history books after his death and the Spanish colonization St. Augustine traces its European story stuck. The combination of fiction with fact heritage to 1565, when an expedition led by Don Pedro Menendez-de does not detract from the historical Aviles, a Spanish admiral, landed significance of the Fountain of Youth and set up an encampment near a Archaeological Park. Attractions include a reconstructTimucuan Indian village. That tribe was one of a number of Native Amer- ed portion of the Indian village, ship ican groups which began occupying building and other exhibits, a planetarium, and cannon and weapons the area some 10,000 years ago. Menendez was not the first Span- demonstrations. As St. Augustine grew, so did its role ish explorer to come ashore in the region. In 1513, Ponce de Leon led in Spain’s efforts to expand its influthe first known European expedition there in a quest to find and claim unSee ST. AUGUSTINE, page 21

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Recreating the past

Reminders of those early years line the cobblestone streets. A section of the Gonzalez-Alvarez house, aka “The Oldest House,” was constructed in the 1720s and is part of a small museum complex that traces 400 years of life in St. Augustine. The home was built in the Spanish Colonial style, with touches of Britain’s Colonial architecture, which were added when that country briefly controlled St. Augustine. The Oldest Wooden School House, a modest one-room timbered structure, served as a dwelling before a second story was added and it became a school. Speaking animatronic figures of the schoolmaster and pupils dressed in period clothing introduce themselves and describe a typical day of classes. The Old Drug Store traces its his-

tory to about 1875 when, along with medicine and tobacco, it sold ancient Indian remedies and concoctions formulated by the pharmacist. The Oldest Store Museum recreates the “modern” wonders of a general store that opened for business in 1900. Clerks demonstrate turn-of-the-century — the 20th century, that is — wonders like “health underwear,” a gas-powered iron, and a goat-driven washing machine! Given its important role at a time of exploration and conflict in the New World, St. Augustine has its share of forts. Most imposing is the Castillo de San Marcos, a massive 17th century stronghold built by the Spanish to defend the Florida coastline. The fort was built of coquina (koKEE-nuh) — soft limestone composed of broken sea shells — which absorbed the force of cannon balls and did not crumble. Some rooms surrounding the central courtyard are furnished to reflect garrison life, while others contain exhibits about military history. A different story comes to light at the site of Fort Mose (Moh-say), hidden away in marshes north of St. Augustine. There, in 1738, a group of slaves who had escaped from British colonies

built a log fortress and founded the first free community of ex-slaves. While the original structure is long gone, a small museum describes the events by means of videos, interactive exhibits and objects found during archaeological digs. While the more than 60 historic sites and attractions are the main reason most people visit St. Augustine, it also manages to keep one foot planted firmly in the present. Sun worshippers find a choice of inviting beaches that stretch some 40 miles north to Ponte Vedra, just above Jacksonville, each with its own appeals. The two-mile long beach at Anastasia State Park consists of gleaming white quartz sand. Aptly-named Crescent Beach is one of the most scenic and unspoiled in the area.

If you go

The St. Francis Inn was constructed in 1791, and it clings proudly to vestiges of its Spanish Colonial heritage. Each of the 17 guest rooms and suites is unique in shape, and furnished with antique and reproduction period pieces. Complementary amenities include a solar-heated swimming pool, breakfast

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featuring hot entrees, and evening wine, beer and tasty treats. Rates begin at $149. For more information, call 1-800824-6062 or visit www.stfrancisinn.com. More recent history is relived at the Ice Plant restaurant. Specialties at the farm-to-table restaurant include hearty fish soup with rice pilaf ($28), and pork belly with sides ($20), along with favorites like a half-pound hamburger ($15). For more information, call (904) 8296553 or see www.iceplantbar.com. The name of Barnacle Bill’s Seafood House indicates its focus, and the good food and budget-stretching prices attract many locals. Florida ‘gator tail (yes, it tastes like chicken), costs $10.95, and a choice of shrimp dishes prepared any of nine ways is priced from $13.25 to $16.25. For more information, call (904) 824-3663 or visit www.barnaclebillsonline.com. The closest major airport to St. Augustine is in Jacksonville, about 40 miles away. The least expensive roundtrip flight from Richmond International Airport in early April is $222 on Delta and United Airlines. For more tourist information on St. Augustine, call 1-800-653-2489 or see floridashistoriccoast.com.

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St. Augustine

March 2017 | Fifty Plus 21

Leisure &

From page 20

an settlement in America.

A place of many firsts

PHOTO BY SEAN PAVONE

St. Augustine, Fla., America’s oldest city

PHOTO COURTESY OF FLORIDASHISTORICCOAST.COM

20 Fifty Plus | March 2017

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Recreating the past

If you go

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IT’S NOT A HEARING AID

the frequency ranges found in human speech, so sounds and conversations are easier to hear and understand.

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Try it for yourself with our exclusive home trial. Thanks to the efforts of a doctor who leads a renowned hearing institute, this remarkable product has been designed using the finest micro-

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81161

Travel

St. Augustine

March 2017 | Fifty Plus 21

More Americans choose to retire abroad By Maria Zamudio Newly widowed, Kay McCowen quit her job, sold her house, applied for Social Security and retired to Mexico. It was a move she and her husband, Mel, had discussed before he passed away in 2012. “I wanted to find a place where I could afford to live off my Social Security,” she said. “The weather here is so perfect, and it’s a beautiful place.” She is among a growing number of Americans who are retiring outside the United States. The number grew 17 percent between 2010 and 2015, and is expected to increase over the next 10 years as more baby boomers retire. Just under 400,000 American retirees are now living abroad, according to the Social Security Administration. The countries they have chosen most often are Canada, Japan, Mexico, Germany and the United Kingdom. Retirees most often cite the cost of living as the reason for moving elsewhere, said Olivia S. Mitchell, director of the Pension Research Council at the University of Pennsylvania’s

Wharton School. “I think that many people retire when they are in good health, and they are interested in stretching their dollars and seeing the world,” Mitchell said.

“Many of the people we interviewed said they spoke Spanish, but they actually spoke very little Spanish,” said Rojas, who is writing a book about retirees in Mexico. “They didn’t have the capacity of speaking enough Spanish to meet their basic needs, like goLow cost, but ing to the doctor or to the store.” language difficulties Access to healthcare also can be a McCowen’s rent in Ajijic, a community outside Guadalajara near Mexico’s challenge. While retirees still can reLake Chapala, is half of what she was ceive Social Security benefits, Medipaying in Texas. And since the weather care is not available to those living abroad, Mitchell said. is moderate, utility bills are low. In some countries, Mitchell said, retirees also may find it less expensive Military retirees in Japan to hire someone to do their laundry, Joseph Roginski, 71, said that while clean, cook, and even provide long- the cost of living is higher in Japan, acterm care than in the United States. cess to healthcare is not. “Things are McCowen has a community of oth- very expensive here. It is impossible er American retirees nearby and has to live off Social Security alone,” said adjusted well. Roginski, who was stationed in Japan But for others, there are hurdles to in 1968. overcome to adjust to life in a different “But health insurance is a major faccountry. Viviana Rojas, an associate tor in staying here,” he added. The professor at the University of Texas at former military language and intelSan Antonio, said the biggest obstacle ligence specialist said he pays $350 is not speaking the language or know- annually to be part of Japan’s national ing the culture. health insurance. His policy covers 70 percent of his costs. The rest is covered by a secondary insurance program for retired military personnel. Japan experienced greater growth in American retirees than any other country — a 42 percent increase between 2010 and 2014, according to data from the Social Security Administration. The large U.S. military presence in the country may be a factor. There are more than 50,000 U.S. military personnel stationed in Japan. The presence is so large that the U.S. military occupies about 19 percent of the island of Okinawa, according to

Ellis S. Krauss, professor emeritus of Japanese politics and policy-making at the University of California, San Diego. Roginski, who volunteers for the Misawa Air Base Retiree Activities Office, said he helps connect more than 450 retirees and their families living in Northern Japan with resources. He said he would never move back to the United States. “We have a real strong sense of security here,” he said. “I can leave my door unlocked, and no one will take anything. When I go to another country, I feel nervous. But when I come back, I feel like I’m home.” Mexico has become home for Dan Williams, 72, a retired firefighter, and his wife, Donna, 68. The couple has been living near the same retirement community in Lake Chapala for 14 years. “The climate and the medical services are very good,” Williams said. Williams teaches painting to adults and children, and puts together a monthly magazine for the local American Legion. He is also a member of the Lake Chapala Society, which offers daily activities for American retirees. It was those same services that attracted McCowen to the region. “Before moving, I found out how many widowed and divorced women lived here,” she said. “There is comfort in numbers.” She says she loves being in a lively community. “I see older people walking year-round. I see them all over the place, even in their wheelchairs. “If they were in the U.S., they would probably be in a nursing home,” she said. “I don’t think I could move back.” — AP

R I C H

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22 Fifty Plus | March 2017

2017 Tour Schedule

Date Tour Per Person Price Mar 3-5 Winter Wildlife Cruise / Virginia Beach.....................295 Mar 5-8 Atlantic City, NJ / Resorts Casino & Hotel................350 Mar 11 “Cinderella” / Altria Theater / Richmond, VA..............135 Mar 11 & 18 Highland Maple Festival..............................................55 Mar 11-20 Texas, “A Whole Other Country”............................1,425 Mar 17-19 Philadelphia Flower Show.........................................445 Mar 23-29 ** Baseball Spring Training / Florida.........................895 Apr 7-9 ** Washington, D.C. / Cherry Blossom Festival........495 Apr 8 “Motown” / Chrysler Theater / Norfolk, VA.................165 Apr 9-11 Sands Casino & Resort / Bethlehem, PA..................275 Apr 10-14 Charleston & Savannah / Southern Springtime.....1,025 Apr 21-22 “Jonah” / Lancaster, PA.............................................325 Apr 22-30 Louisiana Cajun Country........................................1,170 Apr 22-May 10 The Great Southwest & California / Motorcoach....2,795 Apr 29 “Beautiful” / Carole King Story / Altria Theater..........160 May 1-4 The Golden Isles of Georgia.....................................795 May 8-29 San Francisco, CA & The Pacific Northwest..........2,870 May 9-12 ** Hudson River Valley/West Point/Culinary Institute.650 May 9-12 Tulip Festival / Holland, MI........................................665 May 13 Tangier Island..............................................................95 May 19-21 New York City / Springtime.......................................995 May 20-28 Branson, MO / America’s Music Show Capital.......1,325 May 22-24 Sands Casino & Resort / Bethlehem, PA..................275 May 26-30 Nashville, TN / “Music City USA”..............................675 Jun 2-13 Seattle Northwest – Fly / Land...............................2,695 Jun 3-10 Niagara Falls / Montreal & Quebec........................1,250 Jun 4-10 ** Florida’s Northeastern Shore / Amelia Island........875 Jun 6-11 Kentucky Bluegrass..................................................975 Jun 10-13 Baseball / Boston Red Sox / Fenway Park...............750 Jun 14-18 Hall of Fame / Sports & Music..................................750 Jun 14-23 Nova Scotia & The Atlantic Provinces....................1,525 Jun 16-18 Mystery Tour – SSSHH! It’s a Secret........................425 Jun 16-Jul 1 Alaska & Canada – Fly / Land – Northbound.........4,625 Jun 17-24 Michigan & The Grand Hotel..................................1,550 Jun 18-21 Atlantic City, NJ / Resorts Casino & Hotel................350 Jun 21-24 Creation Museum / Ark Encounter / Kentucky..........575 Jun 22-24 “Jonah” / Lancaster, PA.............................................495 Jun 24-Jul 2 Branson, MO / America’s Music Show Capital.......1,325 Jun 28-30 *** Biltmore Estate / Flatrock Playhouse...................425 Jun 30-Jul 9 Hawaii / Honolulu / Waikiki.....................................3,295 Jul 3-6 Baseball / Yankee Stadium / Fourth of July..............750 Jul 3-18 Alaska & Canada – Fly/Land – Southbound..........4,625 Jul 8-24 Canyonlands / Our Most Scenic Tour....................2,995 Jul 8-Aug 6 Alaska & Canada’s Yukon by Motorcoach.............5,175 Jul 15-22 New England Summertime / Martha’s Vineyard....1,450 Jul 22-Aug 7 Newfoundland / Labrador / Nova Scotia................2,650 Jul 23-26 Sands Casino & Resort / New York City...................465 Jul 23-Aug 2 North & South Dakota – Fly/Land..........................2,595 Jul 27-31 Nashville, TN / “Music City USA”..............................675 Aug 1-5 Amish Acres Festival / Napanee, IN.........................595 Aug 2-5 Creation Museum / Ark Encounter / Kentucky..........575 Aug 4-7 “The Crooked Road”/Virginia’s Music Trail................595 Aug 6-27 San Francisco, CA & The Pacific Northwest..........2,870 Aug 12 Tangier Island..............................................................95

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P R E S E F T R E L S I H E

E R A E T S A C L H E A S

F L O R I O A C R G E E D

S A B I N

T I T N E R O C L E A L

P E R S I A N C A T

O R N E R Y

O P A L

S O S O

Date Tour Per Person Price Aug 12 “The King & I” / Kennedy Center / Washington.........175 Aug 12-18 Elvis / Tupelo & Memphis..........................................895 Aug 14-25 The Great Lakes....................................................1,950 Aug 15-19 Wisconsin / Racine & Milwaukee..............................775 Aug 19-26 Niagara Falls / Montreal & Quebec........................1,250 Aug 21-26 Two Stadiums / St. Louis & Kansas City...................925 Aug 24-26 Patriot Tour / Annapolis & Washington......................325 Aug 26 D-Day Memorial / Smith Mountain Lake / Lunch......100 Sep 1-4 Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre / Pigeon Forge........750 Sep 2-8 New England / Vermont & New Hampshire...........1,345 Sep 3-5 Sands Casino & Resort / Bethlehem, PA..................275 Sep 5-8 Mystery Tour – “We Are Still Not Telling!”..................625 Sep 8-10 Ohio Amish Country..................................................475 Sep 9-17 Branson, MO / America’s Music Show Capital.......1,325 Sep 15-16 Tygart Flyer / American Mountain Theater................325 Sep 16-17 ** Baseball / Atlanta Braves / 2 Games.....................260 Sep 16-23 Niagara Falls / Montreal & Quebec........................1,250 Sep 17-23 Agawa Canyon Canadian Train / Sault Ste Marie.. 1,150 Sep 22-25 New York’s Long Island & The Hamptons.................675 Sep 22-23 “Jonah” / Lancaster, PA.............................................325 Sep 25-Oct 1 New England in the Fall.........................................1,125 Sep 29-Oct 1 Neptune Festival / Virginia Beach, VA......................495 Sep 30-Oct 11 Nova Scotia & New England..................................1,850 Oct 1-4 Atlantic City, NJ / Resorts Casino & Hotel................350 Oct 3-18 Hawaiian Islands / Four Island Tour.......................4,595 Oct 5 Cass Railroad / National Observatory / Cass, WV......90 Oct 5-11 New England in the Fall.........................................1,125 Oct 6-24 The Great Southwest & California / Motorcoach....2,795 Oct 7 *** Graves Mountain Harvest Festival.........................75 Oct 12-14 “Jonah” / Lancaster, PA.............................................495 Oct 14-18 * Niagara Falls / Toronto...........................................775 Oct 19-23 Nashville, TN / “Music City USA”..............................675 Oct 21-29 Branson, MO / America’s Music Show Capital.......1,325 Oct 21-22 New River Amtrak Fall Excursion..............................425 Oct 23-26 Dover Downs - DE / Foxwood Casino - CT..............495 Nov 3-5 Sunshine Tours Family Reunion...............................525 Nov 13-20 Olde English Christmas / Omaha, NE.......................950 Nov 15-20 Chicago’s “Magnificent Mile of Lights” / Kentucky....875 Nov 16-19 Biltmore House / Smoky Mountain Christmas..........725 Nov 22-25 New York / Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade........1,295 Nov 26-29 Sands Casino & Resort / New York City...................465 Nov 29-Dec 3 Charleston & Savannah / Christmastime..................925 Nov 30-Dec 4 Nashville, TN / Country Christmas / Opryland Hotel.1,195 Dec 1-3 New York / Radio City Christmas Spectacular.......1,095 Dec 1-4 Christmas / Jamestown & Williamsburg....................695 Dec 2-10 Branson, MO / Ozark Christmas............................1,325 Dec 6-10 Christmas at the Galt House / Louisville, KY............725 Dec 7-8 “Miracle of Christmas” / Lancaster, PA......................325 Dec 7-11 Nashville, TN / Country Christmas / Opryland Hotel.1,195 Dec 8-10 Myrtle Beach / Christmas..........................................475 Dec 8-10 New York / Radio City Christmas Spectacular.......1,095 Dec 26-31 Florida / Christmas at Disneyworld........................1,175

Prices shown are for Double (2 to a Room) Occupancy. Quad (4 to a Room) and Triple (3 to a Room) Occupancy is Available at a Slightly Lower Per Person Price. Single (1 to a Room) is also available at a Slightly Higher Per Person Price. All Tours Include Roundtrip Transportation by Modern, Air-Conditioned, DVD and Restroom Equipped Deluxe Motorcoach, Hotel Accommodations and Admission to the Listed Attractions. Baggage Handling is provided at each night’s lodging as indicated in the catalog. Cancellation Insurance is NOT REQUIRED on any Sunshine tour, as we will REFUND ALL PAYMENTS (FLY TRIPS 45-DAYS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE) FOR ANY REASON WHATSOEVER if you find it necessary to cancel your reservation AT ANY TIME before the tour leaves.

SUNSHINE TOURS

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD

FROM PAGE 27 ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

Sunshine Tours

4430 Cleburne Boulevard * P. O. Box 2149, Dublin, VA 24084 VA DMV Permit No. 180

PICK-UP POINTS FOR TOURS:

P A S T S

Richmond, Charlottesville & Staunton NOTE: * Richmond ONLY | ** Staunton ONLY | *** Richmond & Charlottesville ONLY

FOR A FREE CATALOG OF TOURS, PLEASE CALL TOLL FREE:

A A L I E R

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March 2017 | Fifty Plus 23

Wharton School. “I think that many people retire when they are in good health, and they are interested in stretching their dollars and seeing the world,” Mitchell said.

R I C H

A C H E

T H D A S T

G R A I L

22 Fifty Plus | March 2017

2017 Tour Schedule

P E E W E E

V E I L

E U C L I E D Y E T W A I C T I N T E S S

R P M A L I I O C N E C O N S U M E

C A G E O A T

O F T T O T S E E R A S

A U N T

P R E S E F T R E L S I H E

E R A E T S A C L H E A S

F L O R I O A C R G E E D

S A B I N

T I T N E R O C L E A L

P E R S I A N C A T

O R N E R Y

O P A L

S O S O

SUNSHINE TOURS

ANSWERS TO CROSSWORD

FROM PAGE 27 ANSWERS TO SCRABBLE

Sunshine Tours

4430 Cleburne Boulevard * P. O. Box 2149, Dublin, VA 24084 VA DMV Permit No. 180

PICK-UP POINTS FOR TOURS:

P A S T S

Richmond, Charlottesville & Staunton NOTE: * Richmond ONLY | ** Staunton ONLY | *** Richmond & Charlottesville ONLY

FOR A FREE CATALOG OF TOURS, PLEASE CALL TOLL FREE:

A A L I E R

1-800-552-0022

S T E W

www.fiftyplusrichmond.com

www.GoSunshineTours.com www.fiftyplusrichmond.com

March 2017 | Fifty Plus 23

Arts &

Detail from “Four Moments of the Sun” (2003), by Murry DePillars.

Dancing Lessons: A delightful surprise

PHOTO BY JAY PAUL

24 Fifty Plus | March 2017

PHOTO BY JAY PAUL, COURTESY OF VIRGINIA REP

has driven away everyone close to her. She’s angry, dulling her pain with pills, junk food and liquor, sometimes straight from the bottle. Her first words to Ever: “Go away.” But of course the two come together, as Senga can’t refuse Ever’s generous payment and persistent presence at her doorstep. And along the way, they learn a lot about each other, their own fears and denials. Director Jan Guarino extracts charismatic performances from both actors. Knight is spot-on as the uncomfortable Ever, charmingly gawky as he tries to bust a move to “Funky Town” or allow Senga to touch his body. Clark’s transformation from hostile recluse to gentle teacher and lover is emotional and sensitive. Much of the dialogue is built around explaining the autism spectrum and the alienation those with it can feel. But what we learn is that alienation is a bond those on the spectrum share with so-called “neurotypicals” like Senga — and with humanity in general. Terrie Powers’ set design — most of the play takes place in Senga’s apartment — is great. I especially liked the use of video projections to represent other locales and add background info when the two are apart. A dream-like dance sequence near the end of the play doesn’t quite work, but at least we get to finally see Ever and Senga dance together. As Ever and Senga dance around the issues that influence their lives, we get to experience what it’s like to feel disconnected from the world. But they’re evolving together, and as Ever points out, “change equals courage.” Dancing Lessons runs through Senga and Ever dance awkwardly, but sweetly, March 26 at Virginia Rep’s Hatogether. By Lisa Crutchfield I admit it: I was a doubter. Dancing Lessons is billed as a quirky romantic comedy about an unlikely relationship — a premise I thought would be ripe for stereotypical characters and predictable plot lines. Boy, was I wrong. Dancing Lessons, playing through March 26 at Virginia Rep’s Hanover Tavern, is unexpected and totally delightful. Mark St. Germain’s 2014 play is a witty rom-com, but it’s also a touching look at isolation, fear and loneliness — and finding the courage to overcome. It’s part of this year’s Acts of Faith Theatre Festival. [See box for more about the festival.] Ever Montgomery (Dean Knight) is an awkward geoscience professor with Asperger’s Syndrome (an “Aspie” in the play). Asperger’s is a condition on the autism spectrum that makes it difficult to communicate and socialize with others. In an attempt to blend into an upcoming social event, he asks neighbor Senga Quinn (Kylie Clark), a Broadway dancer sidelined by injury, to teach him to dance. He’s heard about her from the gossipy superintendent at their New York City apartment building. Senga, whose career may be over,

Styles changed over time

In Dancing Lessons at Virginia Rep, Kylie Clark (left) plays Senga Quinn, the initially angry neighbor of Ever Montgomery (played by Dean Knight), whose awkwardness is due to his Asperger’s Syndrome.

nover Tavern. Tickets are $38; seniors get a $5 discount at selected

performances. For tickets, call (804) 282-2620 or visit www.virginiarep.org.

What’s the Acts of Faith Festival? Richmond’s annual Acts of Faith Festival gives actors, directors, playwrights and audiences a chance to come together and examine their beliefs. Each year between January and March, some Richmond area theaters offer shows that deal with some aspect of faith. Though the plays presented under the festival’s auspices aren’t necessarily religious, they often prompt conversation about spirituality. Talkbacks at some shows allow the audience and actors to explore the plays’ themes.

By Martha Steger Murry DePillars, the dedicated Dean of VCU’s School of the Arts from 1976 to 1995, was also an accomplished artist. He died at the age of 69 in 2008, so the time for a major show of his works in Richmond is long overdue. Just such an exhibition — “Murry DePillars: Double Vision” — comprises the first original exhibit organized by the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia, located in the 1895 Leigh Street Armory. The exhibit of 37 works captures the diverse, prodigious work of this man. Acrylic paints in pyrrole red, magenta, emerald green, cobalt turquoise and cadmium yellow are juxtaposed as if in a kaleidoscope in the displayed works. Robert Farris Thompson, American art historian, author and Yale professor, has described the brilliant colors in DePillars’ palette as “coloration of thunder” — the visual thunder is virtually audible.

The festival was conceived in 2005 by a group of church members and theater professionals. Audiences and sponsoring congregations now come from a variety of faiths. Shows still running this month include: Cadence Theatre Company’s Violet, through March 11 in the Theatre Gym at the November Theatre; Richmond Triangle Players’ Choir Boy, through March 18; Virginia Rep’s The End of War, through March 26.

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Divided into three parts — Early Years, Briefcase Series, and AfriCOBRA & Later Years — the exhibit showcases DePillars’ innovative, bold use of color and detailed pattern in the latter two parts, leaving a lasting impression. Very different portraiture works, such as “Wynton” and “Candace,” illustrate the emergence of what Thompson called a “sense of time and patterning,” which make the paintings appear to vibrate on their canvases. At the same time, no one should miss the “Early Years” room, with 10 works in pen, ink and colored pencil on paper produced between 1964 and 1974, before DePillars became dean. Several large-scale drawings deal with contemporaneous socio-political issues, such as the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, and the 1969 House Un-American Committee report that recounted FBI covert surveillance and disruption of dissenting organizations in the U.S., as well as the system of apartheid in South Africa. Two of these large works illustrate DePillars’ deft facility as a draftsman: he executes spontaneous yet incisive lines to turn the passive icons of “Aunt

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Jemima” and “Uncle Remus” into warriors with a cause. The early drawings foreshadow how DePillars will later, in his colorful works on canvas such as “The Dancers,” transition between hard-edge geometry and soft-line drawing.

PHOTO BY NICK DAVIS

Style

An exhibit where colors thunder, shimmer

An advocate for jazz

DePillars was an advocate for all of the arts, especially jazz. He developed VCU’s jazz program, and engaged in the broader Richmond community through his work to establish the original Richmond Jazz Festival in the mid-1980s. “Music is visual,” he said. “It allows your mind to open, and you begin to see things, you begin to see colors. You begin to see images.” It was the appearance of Miles Davis in Richmond that inspired his painting, “Kind of Blue,” set on a shimmering, collage-like background. Hanging nearby, “Wynton,” a painting of jazz trumpeter Wynton Marsalis, superimposes a photorealistic portrayal of the artist on a similar type of background. In many of DePillars’ paintings, ghost images loom large within his lattices of pattern. In “Wynton,” a mask along with a symbolic serpent hangs in the background. It is interesting to note that DePillars got to know Wynton and his family after he hired jazz pianist Ellis Marsalis — Wynton Marsalis’ father — as music professor and coordinator or Jazz Studies at VCU in 1986. Dazzling beadwork and colorful quilts of African design were a big influence on DePillars. Of one such quilt, made for him by a personal friend and displayed in the exhibit, he once said, “Wherever I have my quilt, I have my house.” DePillars was also an active member of AfriCOBRA — the African Commune of Bad Relevant Artists, a Chicago-based collective of African-American artists active since the 1960s. The exhibit’s name — “Double Vision” — thus carries more than double meanings: an artist with dual passions for art and education; one who looks back to Africa for inspiraSee MURRY DEPILLARS, page 26

“Queen Candace” (1996), by Murry DePillars, former dean of VCU’s School of the Arts. Acrylic on canvas. Courtesy of the Black History Museum & Cultural Center.

“The Briefcase” — Productivity before the laptop and smartphone Before visitors enter the exhibition rooms devoted to the three periods of DePillars’ work, they see, encased in a glass cube, “The Briefcase” — the artist’s actual briefcase with a sampling of supplies that he carried and used to create the paintings in the Briefcase Series, several of which are exhibited as part of the show. Two unfinished briefcase works offer a glimpse into the artist’s creative process for his multifaceted

and complex paintings. One canvas, displayed flat, illustrates the method by which he painted, with the canvas lying on a hard surface — or, as in the Briefcase Series — placed on top of the briefcase perched on his lap, while surrounded by the commotion of airport arrivals and departures. With such a compact system, the artist was able to take advantage of travel time spent in hotels and airports. — Martha Steger

March 2017 | Fifty Plus 25

Arts &

Detail from “Four Moments of the Sun” (2003), by Murry DePillars.

Dancing Lessons: A delightful surprise

PHOTO BY JAY PAUL

24 Fifty Plus | March 2017

PHOTO BY JAY PAUL, COURTESY OF VIRGINIA REP

Styles changed over time

nover Tavern. Tickets are $38; seniors get a $5 discount at selected

performances. For tickets, call (804) 282-2620 or visit www.virginiarep.org.

www.fiftyplusrichmond.com

PHOTO BY NICK DAVIS

Style

An exhibit where colors thunder, shimmer

An advocate for jazz

“Queen Candace” (1996), by Murry DePillars, former dean of VCU’s School of the Arts. Acrylic on canvas. Courtesy of the Black History Museum & Cultural Center.

March 2017 | Fifty Plus 25

Murry DePillars

What you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know about Walk-In Tubs can hurt you. The Walk-In Tub reinvented... by Jacuzzi Inc.

From page 25

tion while examining contemporary life in America; and one who skillfully weaves into his oeuvre almost-hidden figures that require serious engagement on the part of the viewer. As the cautionary note to exhibition visitors says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Take your time. Look

twice.â&#x20AC;? Good advice. The museum is located at 122 West Leigh St. The exhibit is open through June 3, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tues. to Sat. and Sun. by appointment only. Admission: $10; seniors/students $8; 3 to 12, $6; under 3, free; military discount, 10%; group rates available. For more information, visit www. blackhistorymuseum.org.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wynton,â&#x20AC;?(1999), by Murry Depillars, is an evocative portrait of jazz trumpeter Wynton Marsalis. Courtesy of the Black History Museum & Cultural Center.

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Down

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Answers on page 22. March 2017 | Fifty Plus 27

Murry DePillars

What you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know about Walk-In Tubs can hurt you. The Walk-In Tub reinvented... by Jacuzzi Inc.

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PHOTO BY ASHLEY DUHRKOOP

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1-888-960-3148 Please mention promotional code 102760.

ÂŠ 2016 Aging In The Home Remodelers

26 Fifty Plus | March 2017

81418

Myth #4- Walk-In Tubs are expensive. Moving into an Assisted Living Facility is expensive.

Jumbles: NOISY CHAMP WHINNY LOCALE

E FRE

For your FREE special report â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tips on Living to be 100â&#x20AC;?

Answer: He remembered her birthday, but chose to forget this -- WHICH ONE

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wynton,â&#x20AC;?(1999), by Murry Depillars, is an evocative portrait of jazz trumpeter Wynton Marsalis. Courtesy of the Black History Museum & Cultural Center.

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Scrabble answers on p. 22.

Across

So is a broken hip. JacuzziÂŽ Walk-In Tubs are a great investment and can even increase the value of your home. Quality craftsmanship and innovative design are worth every penny.

Down

Answers on page 22. March 2017 | Fifty Plus 27

28 Fifty Plus | March 2017